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Fasseas introduced an Adoptable Animal Showcase that spotlighted dogs that were available for adoption that night. Puppy London (along with seven littermates) came to PAWS from a rural shelter in Oklahoma suffering from the parvo virus. Maribel, a 10-year-old Yorkshire terrier, was rescued during a puppy mill raid in Tennessee, and Betty Sue, a 5-year-old Shih Tzu, was found in Chicago as a stray. All of the dogs were adopted following the event, except Betty Sue, who is still under medical care.
The winner of this season's So You Think You Can Dance will receive a spot in Fox's upcoming live television production of Rent, airing Sunday, January 27, 2019. The news was announced during Monday's episode of the reality competition by host Cat Deeley.

A reimagining of Puccini's La Boheme, and set in New York City's gritty East Village, Jonathan Larson's Rent tells the story of seven artists struggling to follow their dreams during a time of great social and political turmoil.

Film, television, and theater producer Marc Platt (La La Land, Wicked) will produce alongside Adam Siegel, Julie Larson, Al Larson, and Revolution Studios' Vince Totino, Scott Hemming, and Marla Levine.

Additional information will be released over the next several months.
Toyota Commemorates Induction of Kiichiro Toyoda into Automotive Hall of Fame in U.S.







SEE ALSO Toyota Motor Corporation Founder Kiichiro Toyoda Inducted into Automotive Hall of Fame

Toyota City, Japan, Aug, 06 2018; Toyota Motor Corporation held a ceremony today at its headquarters in Toyota City commemorating the induction of Toyota founder Kiichiro Toyoda into the Automotive Hall of Fame in the United States as part of this year's induction class.

Approximately 100 people attended the ceremony, which, in addition to Toyota executives and representatives of the Toyota National Dealer's Advisory Council, Kyohokai, Eiyokai, and Toyota Group member companies, included--for the passing down of the spirit of Kiichiro Toyoda and others at the time of the company's foundation--young employees from each group company.

Toyota Chairman Takeshi Uchiyamada and Senior Managing Officer Jim Lentz, who attended the induction ceremony in Detroit in the United States on July 19, reported on the induction, and Honorary Chairman Shoichiro Toyoda and President Akio Toyoda, in remembrance of Kiichiro Toyoda and the other leaders at the time of the company's foundation, addressed today's gathering as detailed below.

Honorary Chairman Shoichiro Toyoda

"Eiji Toyoda was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in the U.S. in 1994, and I was also inducted in 2007. It is a tremendous honor and one that fills me with great joy that the induction this year of Kiichiro, who took up the challenge of shifting from the loom business to the car business, stems from the high evaluation in America, which can be called the 'mother' of the automobile, of his achievements as founder at the time of our company's foundation.

"Kiichiro used to say: 'When it came to loom technology, I am confident that we were the best in the world. But, as for automobiles, I didn't do a thing. It was my subordinates and those around me who did it.' Within those words were feelings of appreciation based on Kiichiro's belief that 'The automobile business is not something that one person alone can undertake. We were able to accomplish what we did only because many people came together and worked hard.

"It was after the war that Kiichiro yet to accomplish what he had set out to do, fell ill and never lived to see that for which he had aimed: the creation of an authentic passenger car for the masses. Those dreams and aspirations were inherited by the subordinates who shared his dreams, resulting in the birth of the Crown in 1955.

"Since then and to this day, the practice of genchi genbutsu (go and see to find the facts), an understanding that prices are determined by the market and that we should tirelessly endeavor to reduce costs, the building of quality into one's own processes, or jikotei kankestsu, the taking up of challenges for innovation, and the cultivating of the human resources who will assume responsibility for these things have formed the driving force of our development. All of these represent the thinking and stance behind Kiichiro's approach to making cars since the time of our foundation. As such, Kiichiro lives on as part of Toyota Motor Corporation and the Toyota Group today."

President Akio Toyoda

"Because Kiichiro passed away at the young age of 57, I never had the chance to meet him. But, even in the case of the honor recently bestowed on him, I believe he would have said: 'Because it took all of us working together to make cars, being inducted into a hall of fame, too, is something we will do together. My name exists just to represent you.'

"When I think of Kiichiro and our predecessors, there are always two things that come to mind. One is a feeling of appreciation, as, if it were not for them, the Toyota we know today would not exist. The other, nonetheless, is a sense of regret, as none of them were able to experience, for the most part, the good times that were to come.

"That is why I am happy, more than I would be for myself, that their days of effort and challenge have been recognized by induction into the Automotive Hall of Fame in America, a country that they all admired.

"We exist today precisely because, for the future of Japan, Kiichiro and all the people who supported us at the time of our foundation took up the challenge of making cars, which at the time was said to be impossible. If we who were handed the baton had only always talked about risks without taking up any challenges and only did what was safe, we would be, in front of both our predecessors and members of the next generation, hard pressed to find an excuse.

"To make a future society of mobility more enjoyable and prosperous, I, myself, will stand at the forefront and continue the fight. And I pledge that I will firmly pass on to those who are younger the idea, which is the origin of our company's foundation, of committing oneself to the struggle, not for oneself, but for society and for smiles on the faces of the next generation."
Taylor Hamlin. Photo: Taylor Hamlin/Facebook

It is with heavy hearts that we must report that drama continues to roil the 2018 Maine Lobster Festival.

It all started last week, when 18-year-old Taylor Hamlin stepped down from her post as this years Maine Lobster Festival Sea Goddess. Her resignation came after community members (snitches) sent the festival organizers photos of Hamlin vaping and smoking a joint. Everybody is a teen once and awhile, she wrote in response. Im sorry to whoever didnt receive the goddess they wanted and felt the need to sabotage this amazing thing that has happened to me. Meanwhile, festival organizers called this a terrible situation for everyone involved. Little did they know, it would only get worse for them.

Per the Associated Press, the organizers are now dealing with a massive backlash, including death threats. Celia Knight, part of the volunteer executive committee, shared the following story:

Its been pretty brutal, said Knight, who said she and her family have been harassed even though she voted against stripping Hamlin of the title. A so-called friend even said she was burning all of her lobster festival shirts.

The festival, which has been happening annually since 1947, officially ended on August 5. But the last few days were fraught with tension, with festival spokesperson Shannon Kinney saying there were incredible amounts of negativity at an event meant to highlight our beautiful community and our lobster fishery.

Hamlin herself issued a statement condemning the publics reaction. My intent was NEVER to apply hate to the festival or anyone involved in the set up and take down of the festival. I have grown up involved with the festival for as long as I can remember. I feel as if people are loosing sight of my purpose, she wrote. Even though I thought it should be handled a different ( postive ) way. Everyone has their opinions about it but hate and negativity is not the answer. [sic]
This didn't mean that he disliked me. (I think.) Rather, he explained that every visit to the oncology clinic was a reminder that he had once had cancer. Besides, he lived more than an hour away and he trusted his primary-care physician to review his scans. And it was very possible that his lung cancer would never return. He would be happy to never have to come back to see me.
Daphne Reid lines up for a Make America Great Again rally in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., on Aug. 2, 2018. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Among Base, Trump Receives Support for Government Shutdown Over Border Security

WILKES-BARRE, Pa.President Donald Trump has threatened to allow a government shutdown in the fall if Democrats do not back funding for more border security measures and immigration reform.

A shutdown would close all nonessential offices of the government and furlough hundreds of thousands employees, if Congress fails to approve the federal budget for the 2019 fiscal year.

At recent rallies and on Twitter, the president has dug in his heels over funding for border security, especially for a wall along the southwest border.

On July 29, he wrote on Twitter, I would be willing to shut down government if the Democrats do not give us the votes for Border Security, which includes the Wall!

On July 31, he wrote on Twitter that a shutdown would be a small price to pay for a safe and prosperous America and that he is unconcerned about the political ramifications.

Our immigration laws and border security have been a complete and total disaster for decades, and there is no way that the Democrats will allow it to be fixed without a Government Shutdown, Trump wrote. Border Security is National Security, and National Security is the long-term viability of our Country.

The Epoch Times talked to around a dozen Trump supporters at the presidents Make America Great Again rally in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, on Aug. 2.

If Thats What It Takes

Daphne Reid, 64, who owns a cleaning company in Wilkes-Barre, said she would support Trump in a shutdown if thats what it takes to force it to go through.

I immigrated to this country, and I had to go through all the red tape to get here, Reid said. Even though my situation is different from a lot of the people that are coming across illegally  I have a lot of empathy. Its a really hard decision, its a really hard thing.

Democrat Obstruction

Len Spadaro, 57, a truck driver and Desert Storm veteran, said he would absolutely support a shutdown. He said Democrats have been obstructing immigration reform and border security for too long.

I do believe that a sovereign country and a secure nation would be well served with a border wall, he said.

Spadaro said Trump gave Democrats more than what they originally wanted in his proposal to give 1.8 million illegal immigrants amnesty and a pathway to citizenshipand they threw those in the trash.

Never Shut It Down

Shakerra Powell, 38, lives in Florida but flew to Pennsylvania expressly to attend the rally and support the president. However, she drew the line at supporting a possible shutdown.

I dont think the government should ever be shut downever, she said. I agree with where he stands with border security, but most government jobs are made up of hard-working people, and its difficult to shut it down and not [provide] money for the families.

Powell, a CPA, immigrated to the United States from Jamaica in 1985 and said she supports Trumps tougher border security and immigration reform ideas.

I dont think its fair for people to come here illegally and stay here and build family and wealth and everything else while other people are struggling, she said. Theres a right way to do things, and theres a wrong way, and when you choose the wrong way then you have to reap the repercussions.

Stop Contract Waste

For David Spotts, a shutdown would be personalhe works in construction for the government and has a wife and three children to support.

As a conservative, I support shutting down the government, but its a struggle for me, because it is my job, he said. When people think of the government they want shut down, theyre looking at the congressional side as far as politicians. Theyre not looking at the people like myself that are doing honest, daily work, and actually working for the taxpayers.

Spotts said he has been through two government shutdowns alreadyone for three weeks and another for two weeks. He was paid for one furlough, but not the other.

Spotts said he wishes he could sit down with the president to explain the savings the government could make in the construction industry.

Theres major stuff that needs to be done to revamp the construction side. Theres a lot of savings, he said. I could say Ive probably saved the government easily $10 million, just this year, by monitoring contracts.

These contractors come in and take advantage of the government, [through] modifications to contracts and every little loophole. And nobody really fights on the government side to say, We need to get a better price for this, or you need to justify this.

The government shut down briefly in January after Democrats took several days to sign a spending package because Trump did not agree to a blanket amnesty for illegal immigrants without border security and broader immigration reform.

Just a Threat

Retired NYPD Detective Michael Sierra said he would support a shutdown, but Im sure he wont have to shut the government down, and hell get what he wants. I feel its just a threat.

Sierra said that although his parents are Democrats, he is a Republican, because Democrats arent what they used to be.

Years ago, if you were Democrat, it was a good thing. Now today  I think theyre off the wall, he said, adding that theyre off track on everything.

Everything that Trumps doing right now to get the country back in line, compared to what Obama did, I think  the Democrats have swung a bad way. Thats my personal opinion.

Elections Have Consequences

Retired banker Mike Alicea said he supports a shutdown.

Because thats what the election was about, and as Obama said, Elections have consequences. And the consequences of this election is that the will of the people be fulfilled that we build a wall. I dont feel like paying for every illegal alien at $32,000 an alien. OK. As my son pays off his student loan.

Alicea, 65, said he hasnt always voted Republican and thought former President Bill Clinton did an OK job.

I didnt like him as a moral compass, but you know as far as the economy and kinda you know the will of people was done. He wasnt trying to subvert things. He had his point of view and I respected that.
A firefighter knocks down hotspots to slow the spread of the Mendocino Complex fire in Lakeport, California on July 31, 2018. (Fred Greaves/Reuters)

Biggest Wildfire in California History Expected to Burn Into September

The largest wildfire in California state history is expected to continue to burn into early September, fueled by hot and windy conditions, fire officials said on Aug. 7.

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said that only a third of the Mendocino Complex blaze currently is contained, after two wildfires merged in the southern Mendocino National Forest.

The Mendocino Complex fire became the largest in state history on Aug. 6, with almost 283,800 acres burned across northern California. As of Aug. 7, the blaze had expanded to 290,692 acres.

The largest of eight fires raging across the state, the Mendocino wildfire has surpassed last years fire in Santa Barbara and Thomas County, which destroyed 1,000 structures and scorched almost 282,000 acres.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has approved a disaster declaration for California.

The state is using all the resources at hand, including inmates from the California Corrections Department, which assigned 2,000 inmates to help clear brush. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has sent 200 active-duty Army engineers to assist firefighters, while volunteers have arrived from around the world.

Almost half of the 10 largest California wildfires on record have occurred in the past decade. In total, the 629,531 acres in California have been scorched by wildfires this year, nearly five times the five-year average, according to Cal Fire.

This is part of a trend, a new normal that we have to deal with, California Gov. Jerry Brown said. Were dealing with it humanly, financially, and governmentally.

These kinds of situations bring people together, regardless of the lesser kinds of ideologies and partisan considerations.

According to the California Governors Office of Emergency Services (OES), more than 14,000 firefighters are battling wildfires statewide.

Some 3,900 fire personnel are battling the Mendocino Complex blaze alone. On Aug. 7, they were focused on keeping flames from breaking through fire lines on a ridge above the foothill communities of Clearlake Oaks, Glen Haven, Lucerne, and Nice, according to Tricia Austin, a spokeswoman for Cal Fire. The fire has destroyed 143 structures, according to OES.

Fire officials had expected to extinguish the blaze by mid-August but have changed their estimate to early September. The fires have destroyed 75 homes and forced evacuations of thousands of people.

Temperatures in some parts of Northern California may rise as high as 110 degrees Fahrenheit over the next few days, according to a National Weather Service (NWS) meteorologist.

With more hot weather on the way, the NWS issued red flag warnings for the Angeles and Los Padres national forests, which border Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, respectively. The warnings are an indicator of an increased risk of extreme fire behavior.

Elsewhere in California, evacuations were ordered for cabins in the canyons of Cleveland National Forest on Aug. 6, after a blaze there quickly scorched 700 acres.

The Carr Fire, which has burned 167,000 acres in the scenic Shasta-Trinity region north of Sacramento since starting on July 23, was 47 percent contained.

The Carr Fire has been blamed for seven deaths, including that of a Pacific Gas and Electric Company lineman. The company said on Aug. 5 the 21-year-old man was killed in a vehicle crash as he worked with crews in dangerous terrain. That blaze has destroyed 1,600 structures.

As students across the state return to school this week, officials warned that air quality has been affected, even in areas without fires. People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion outside, the OES warned.

California wildfires are being magnified and made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading! Trump wrote on Twitter.

Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.), who thanked Trump for bringing attention to the issue, has been critical of the states environmental laws for diverting water from a swath of California farmland.

According to Nunes, the regulations are the result of years of pressure from extreme environmentalists set on removing 1.3 million acres of farmland from production. Nunes has previously linked the environmentalists to the Communist Party.

A Cal Fire spokesman declined to comment on Trumps claims, but said crews arent lacking water to fight the flames.

Trumps reference to clearing trees points to another regulatory issue which may be making the wildfires worse. The practice of passive forest management leaves forests packed with diseased timber and underbrush, which serve as fuel for the blazes.

The presidents concern was echoed by Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke.

Fires across the West are burning hotter and more intense. The overload of dead and diseased timber in the forests makes the fires worse and more deadly, Zinke wrote on Twitter. We must be able to actively manage our forests and not face frivolous litigation when we try to remove these fuels.

Reuters contributed to this report.
Plastination, used for the cadavers in the Real Bodies exhibition, is the process of using liquid silicone rubber to prevent the natural body process of decaying. The cadaver above is from a previous exhibition called 'The Human Body' in Kiev, Ukraine and is a file photo. (Sergei Supinsky/AFP/Getty Images)

Bodies Used for UK Exhibition Could Come From Prisoners of Conscience

LONDONThe human cadavers on display at an exhibition center in the UK could have once been prisoners of conscience from China, a human rights group is arguing.

In an open letter sent to the British government, over 30 medical professionals, lawmakers, and activists called for the Real Bodies exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham to be shut down and investigated.

The exhibition features 20 cadavers and over 200 organs sourced from China and is billed as an educational experience with multi-layered narratives by organizers Imagine Exhibitions.

The bodies have been supplied by Dalian Hoffen Bio-Technique Co. Ltd. and are preserved using plastination, which uses liquid silicone rubber to prevent decay.

But the open letter, which is signed by prominent lawmaker Fiona Bruce, alleges that the bodies have no documentation to confirm their origin and are likely to have been sourced from prisoners of conscience.

The letter said that investigations have shown that bodies from the Dalian plastination facility include political prisoners detained in the labor camp close to the facility. Of these, many would be from the Falun Gong spiritual practice, since they are the largest group of prisoners of conscience in China.

No Documentation

The National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, which is hosting the Real Bodies exhibition until Aug. 19, says that the specimens on display are all unclaimed bodies that have been donated by the relevant authorities to medical universities in China. The specimens featured in the exhibition were donated legally, were never prisoners of any kind, showed no signs of trauma or injury, were free of infectious disease, and died of natural causes.

However, Tom Zaller, chief executive of Imagine Exhibitions admitted in April that there was no documentation to prove the bodies identities or that they had consented to donating their bodies after death.

The UKs Human Tissue Act (2004) says that removing, storing, or using human tissue  without appropriate consent is an offense, but because the Real Bodies specimens have been imported from overseas the Act does not apply.

Lord Alton of Liverpool, a signatory of the open letter, asked parliament whether the Birmingham coroner could investigate the origins of the cadavers deaths.

The government responded by saying the exhibition was licensed but responsibility for hosting the exhibition and maintaining ethical standards lies with the National Exhibition Centre.

Rachel Dunachie from the NEC said that if the exhibition was found to be unethical they would take guidance from the Human Tissues Authority who wouldnt give us a license.

Birmingham coroners office saw a copy of the open letter but decided not to take any action, according to the BBC. The coroners office was contacted by The Epoch Times as to the reasons why, but did not respond in time for publication.

DNA Samples

Plastinated body exhibitions have been banned in Israel, France, Hawaii, and some cities in the United States. The Czech Republic changed its laws on July 7, 2017, to require proof of consent from the deceased before such exhibitions are allowed to enter the country.

Ethan Gutmann, investigative journalist and co-founder of the International Coalition to End Transplant Abuse in China, is calling for DNA samples from the bodies so their origin can be established.

China is right now pursuing a policy of trying to test the DNA of living Chinese people, Gutmann said at an event to launch the open letter. Theyve already tested 17 million Uyghur Muslims and they can narrow it down to within third-degree relatives so its becoming possible to get a match.

Gutmann believes if the DNA sampling is granted it could explode open the issue of organ harvesting from prisoners of consciencea subject the author has campaigned on for over a decade.

This is because Dalian, where the plastination is carried out, is the second largest city in Liaoning Province, an epicenter for the persecution of Falun Gong practitioners, according to Gutmann.

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Former Chinese surgeon Enver Tohti said he was turned into a killing robot while thinking he was working for a great cause.
The three mothers of the 11 malnourished children found living in a filthy New Mexico compound were arrested and charged. (Taos County Sheriffs Office)

Body Found on New Mexico Compound Where 11 Kids Were Discovered

The remains of a young child were found on a New Mexico compound where 11 other children were discovered in filthy, squalid conditions, the Taos County Sheriffs Office said on Aug. 7.

Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe said that the remains were found after a search in Amalia. Authorities are awaiting a positive identification of the remains discovered on Aug. 6.

Authorities say the search for 4-year-old Abdul-Ghani, of Georgia, led them Friday to the squalid compound where they found his father, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, four other adults and 11 children living in filthy conditions.

Five adults, including three mothers, were charged in the case. Jany Leveille, 35; Hujrah Wahhaj, 38; and Subhannah Wahhaj, 35; were arrested in the case, police said on Aug. 5.

Two males, Siraj Wahhaj and Lucan Morton, were also arrested in connection with the incident. Officials said Siraj Wahhaj was armed with an AR-15 rifle and other guns.

During the raid, children between the ages of 1 and 15 were found in the compound. They looked like third-world-country refugees and had only dirty rags for clothing, the sheriff said.

Hogrefe, in an Aug. 4 statement, said that officials found the occupants were most likely heavily armed and considered extremist of the Muslim belief.

Individuals found in the compound, described as a buried trailer, had no shoes, personal hygiene, and basically dirty rags for clothing, Hogrefe said. We all gave the kids our water and what snacks we hadit was the saddest living conditions and poverty I have seen, he added.

Hogrefe said the move to search the facility came after a Georgia investigator forwarded a message to him in which someone at the compound told another person that people there were starving and needed water.

Hogrefe said that sheriffs officials searched the property after they got a tip from an investigator in Georgia, who relayed a message of distress from a person living in the compound.

The message sent to a third party simply said in part, We are starving and need food and water, Hogrefe said. I absolutely knew that we couldnt wait on another agency to step up and we had to go check this out as soon as possible.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Venezuelans are pictured with their luggage before showing their passports or identity cards at the Pacaraima border control, Roraima state, Brazil Nov. 16, 2017. (Reuters/Nacho Doce)

Brazilian Judge Orders Border Closed to Venezuelan Immigrants

BRASILIAA Brazilian judge has ordered the border crossing from Venezuela closed to Venezuelan immigrants fleeing their countrys economic and political turmoil but the border remained open on Aug. 6 pending an appeal by the federal government.

Hundreds of Venezuelans continued to walk across into Brazil, a border official said.

Federal judge Helder Barreto on Aug. 5 ordered the border closed until the frontier state of Roraima can create humanitarian conditions to receive the massive and disorderly influx. But the injunction has not gone into effect yet pending an appeal by Brazilian government lawyers.

Over the last three years, tens of thousands of Venezuelans have arrived in Roraima, overwhelming social services and causing a humanitarian crisis with families sleeping in the streets amid rising crime and prostitution.

The state government on Aug. 2 decreed Venezuelans seeking medical and other social services in Roraima would have to present a valid passport, which many of the refugees do not have.

Barreto ruled that such a measure was discriminatory and countered Brazilian laws. He suspended a provision that would allow the deportation or expulsion of Venezuelan immigrants who committed illegal acts and ordered the vaccination of those admitted to Brazil.

However, he ordered the suspension of the entry of Venezuelans into Roraima until the state can reach an equilibrium between the arrival of migrants and their exit to other parts of Brazil.

Following recommendations by the U.N. refugee agency UNHCR, the Brazilian Air Force in early May began airlifting Venezuelan immigrants from Roraima for resettlement in other cities of Brazil.

To date, some 820 Venezuelans have been flown out of Boa Vista, the state capital, by the Air Force. But state officials say more than 500 Venezuelans cross into Brazil every day on average and many stay in Roraima because they cannot afford to move on.

Brazils federal government has declined requests by Roraimas governor to close the border. Solicitor General Grace Mendonca renewed an appeal to the Supreme Court on Aug. 6 to suspend the state decree restricting services for Venezuelans, saying it interfered with federal powers.

By Anthony Boadle
Former U.S. President Donald Trump campaign aide Rick Gates departs the U.S. District Court in Washington on Nov. 2, 2017. (Reuters/James Lawler Duggan/File Photo)

Business Partner Testifies Against Ex-Trump Aide

A key witness in the trial of political lobbyist Paul Manafort turned up to court on Aug. 6 to testify against his former business partner.

The witness, Richard Gates, previously pleaded guilty to making false statements and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors, who charged Manafort with bank and tax fraud. The charges are unrelated to the Trump presidential campaign, which Manafort briefly worked for in 2016.

Gates, who seconded Manafort in the Trump campaign, is a crucial witness for prosecutors after U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis said on Aug. 2 that conspiracy charges against Manafort could fall apart without Gates taking the stand.

Defense lawyers have painted Gates as an untrustworthy business partner who embezzled funds from Manaforts consulting firm.

Manafort has been charged by the team of special counsel Robert Mueller in two separate lawsuits, in October and in February. He is accused of hiding from authorities millions of dollars in payments from former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, dodging taxes in the process. He also allegedly lied to banks about his income to get better loans, lied to investigators, and failed to register as a foreign agent.

Manafort joined the Trump campaign in March 2016 and served as the campaign manager from June to August that year. He stepped down after his work in Ukraine was revealed.

Manaforts lawyers previously said the charges against him are politically motivated, as his activities have been known to authorities for years but he was prosecuted only after he worked with the Trump campaign.

Mueller took over a previous FBI counterintelligence probe into Russian meddling with American elections and allegations that the Trump campaign colluded with Russia. He was also authorized to investigate anything that arose from the Russia probe.

Ellis previously questioned how removed the charges against Manafort are from the alleged Russian interference. A similar concern was raised by Trump.

Why didnt government tell me that he was under investigation. These old charges have nothing to do with Collusion  a Hoax! Trump said in an Aug. 1 tweet.

Reuters contributed to this report.

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Namibia is probably best known for its huge, brilliantly colored sand dunes. For those attracted to Africas famed wildlife it would seem a less likely destination than East Africa and the Serengeti. Yet its a place thats home to elephants that have adapted to the desert as well as zebra, giraffe, various antelope, ostrich, lion, cheetah and leopard. Adventure Life offers a 14-day/13-night tour that provides an immersion into the dunes and the wildlife, including an outing that involves foot tracking rare black rhinos. Thats the highlight of a stay at the Desert Rhino Camp, a luxe lodging in the Palmwag Concession, which contains nearly 70 percent of the worlds largest free-roaming population of black rhinos. In the vicinity of Palmwag in the northern part of the country is Etosha National Park. Theres more luxe accommodations here, with Ongava Lodge featuring the main lounge and dining areas that overlook a watering hole that attracts all manner of game. South of Etosha is Okonjima Nature Reserve, home to the AfriCat Foundation, which rehabilitates big cats, particularly injured or captured leopard and cheetah. Namibia borders the Atlantic Ocean, and on a visit to Swakopmund theres sea kayaking to watch seals and dolphins play in the wild. This isnt an inexpensive trip, but lodgings are first rate, and all meals are included. Pricing starts at about $12,400 per person, double occupancy. International air is extra. Info: 800-344-6118, http://tinyurl.com/ycehr2qh
Rep. Devin Nunes speaks to reporters after chairing a Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence hearing on Chinas Worldwide Military Expansion at U.S. Congress in Washington on May 17, 2018. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Nunes Backs Trumps Critique of California Environmental Laws

Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) lauded President Donald Trump on Aug. 6 for bringing attention to Californias dire water supply issues caused by years of flawed environmental policies.

Trump wrote on Twitter on Aug. 5 and 6 that the wildfires in California are exacerbated by the states bad environmental laws.

California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized, Trump wrote.

California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 5, 2018

It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!

Nunes, who has been a critic of Californias environmental laws for years, wrote a message on Twitter thanking Trump for bringing attention to the problem.

Forests should be managed properly and water should be allowed for farmers to grow food to feed people, Nunes wrote. [Thanks] for supporting the people of San Joaquin Valley and Sierra Nevada mountains!

Stealing Water

Around 70 percent of the water that enters the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta is flushed into the ocean due to environmental regulations and a lack of water storage capacity. According to Nunes, both problems are the work of Californias extreme environmentalists.

Working in cooperation with sympathetic judges and friendly federal and state officials, environmental groups have gone to extreme lengths to deprive the San Joaquin Valley, the heart of much of the U.S. agricultural production, of much-needed water, Nunes wrote in an opinion for Investors Business Daily.

According to Nunes, the environmentalists long-term goal is to remove 1.3 million acres of California farmland from production. They have achieved this through incremental legislative victories, years of litigation, and state regulations.

In 1992, Congress passed the Central Valley Project Improvement Act, which annually diverts 260 billion gallons of water from the west Joaquin valley to environmental causes. An additional 130 billion gallons of water is diverted to wildlife refuges.

In 2006, agricultural organizations agreed to settle a 1988 lawsuit filed by environmental groups. Congress approved the settlement and President Barack Obama approved it. The settlement resulted in major additional water diversion from farmlands.

In 2008 and 2009, lawsuits filed by environmental groups forced the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service to issue biological opinions on smelt and salmon.

These opinions virtually ended operation of the Jones and Banks pumping plantsthe two major pumping stations that move San Joaquin River Delta waterand resulted in massive diversions of water for environmental purposes, Nunes wrote.

The San Joaquin River Restoration Settlement would be considered a success if 500 salmon returned to the river, costing taxpayers $4 million per fish, according to a documentary by the National Alliance for Environmental Reform. Farmers and towns in the valley lose 65 billion gallons of water per year as a result.

As surface sources of water were increasingly cut off by the government, farmers turned to groundwater supplies. But the environmentalists, aided by California Gov. Jerry Brown, reached underground as well. In 2014, under the guise of groundwater sustainability, Brown approved regulations limiting how much groundwater farmers can use.

The groundwater regulations are the final stab in our back, Nunes said. Now wait, you cut off the water in the first place and you tell us to use the groundwater and youre going to come in and regulate the groundwater too?

In an Aug. 6 Twitter message, Trump called on Brown to take action.

Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean, Trump wrote. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water  Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals.

Nunes has outlined a three-step solution to the problem: return pumps to normal operations, fix the San Joaquin River Settlement, and expedite and approve construction of new water projects.

These measures would not only end the water crisis, they would improve the environment for fish and wildlifeall while saving taxpayer dollars, Nunes wrote.
A 15-year-old boy was shot and killed and nine others were shot across Chicago on Aug. 6, 2018. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Chicago Violence: 15-Year-Old Boy Shot Dead, 9 Wounded

A 15-year-old boy was shot and killed and nine others were shot across Chicago on Aug. 6, coming a day after one of the bloodiest weekends in recent memory in the city.

Derrick Hall, the teen, was shot as he was waiting at a bus stop in the Burnside neighborhood, according to the Chicago Tribune, citing police.

A gunman approached him at around 11:15 a.m. local time and opened fire, hitting him in the neck and back. Hall was then sent to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 11:48 a.m. local time, the Cook County Medical Examiners Office confirmed to the paper.

According to reports on Aug. 6, after dozens of people were shot over the weekend, leaving 12 dead, there were no arrests made.

Over 70 people shot in Chicago over the weekend as city deals with surge in gun violence https://t.co/EORXcTBiFY pic.twitter.com/JrfTpKUY6x  The Hill (@thehill) August 6, 2018

They take advantage of that opportunity and they shoot into a crowd, no matter who they hit, Chicago Police Chief of Patrol Fred Waller said.

He said that gang members tend to shoot into summer crowds of people at night.

Detectives are working around the clock to investigate the incidents, build a timeline of events and identify any shooter, he also said, WLS reported. Well also be conducting coordinated enforcement missions to target individuals that are driving the violence in these areas and focus on where we believe retaliatory violence may occur.

Rahm Emanuel Under Pressure

Mayor Rahm Emanuel, who was President Obamas former chief of staff, was slammed by other mayoral candidates.

What happened over the weekend is absolutely horrific and unacceptable. Its another tragic weekend in Chicago, and unfortunately, weve had too many of them, former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas, who is also running for mayor told the Chicago Tribune. There is no substitution for providing the police resources we need to close this gap.

Former Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy, another candidate, tweeted: Has wasteful Rahm even seen the South and West side? $10 MILLION would be a tremendous help to residents, especially children that live in poverty from these neighborhoods. Instead, he wants to waste more on an already perfect downtown attraction.
DOJ Announces Settlement With Rose Acre Farms, Nations Second-Largest Egg Producer

A long-running lawsuit between the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Rose Acre Farms Inc. over unfair immigration-related employment practices was resolved on Aug. 6 after a settlement was reached.

The DOJ had accused the Indiana-based farm, the second largest egg producer in the nation, of violating the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) by discriminating against non-U.S. citizens who were work-authorized.

The complaint filed back on Nov. 7, 2012, alleged that between the periods of June 2009 and Dec. 22, 2011, the egg-producing company had routinely required their work-authorized non-U.S. citizens to present a Permanent Resident Card or Employment Authorization Document to prove their eligibility.

But they did not have the same requirements for U.S. citizens.

According to the DOJ, all work-authorized individuals, including those who are U.S. citizens and those who are not, all have the right to choose which documentation to present, in order to prove their validity to work.

The INA makes clear that when employers verify the identity and work authorization of employees, they must not treat employees differently based on their citizenship or national origin, Acting Assistant Attorney General John Gore of the Civil Rights Division said in a statement.

The anti-discrimination provision of the INA stops employers from letting employees go through unnecessary documentary demands based on factors such as their citizenship or nationality.

According to the agreement, Rose Acre will pay a civil penalty of $70,000 and train its employees on the INAs anti-discrimination provision. They must also allow their company to be monitored for two years.

The settlement also states that the farming company shall not intimidate, threaten, coerce, or retaliate against any person, as a result of the decision.

In April, the company had to recall more than 200 million of their eggs due to salmonella fears. At the time about 22 illnesses were reported in connection with their eggs.
DOJ: Kansas Man Who Shot at 2 Indian Men Sentenced to Life

On Aug. 7, a Kansas man was sentenced to life behind bars without the possibility for parole after he shot at two Indian men, killing one of them, according to an announcement from the Department of Justice (DOJ).

In the racially motivated attack, Adam W. Purinton killed Indian national Srinivas Kuchibhotla and shot at another man, an Indian national named Alok Madasani, in February 2017. Purinton also shot at a U.S. citizen Ian Grillot, a Kansas Resident, during an attempt to flee from the Austins Bar & Grill located in Olathe.

Purinton pleaded guilty in federal court earlier this year to hate crime and firearm offenses in relation to the shooting. He admitted in the hearing that he targeted and shot the men because of their race, color of skin, and national origin. He shot at Grillot only during a struggle to escape the scene of the crime.

Todays sentencing speaks to the gravity of this senseless crime and reaffirms the FBIs continued commitment to bring those responsible to justice, said FBI Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Darrin Jones.

Sunayana Dumala, the widow of the fallen man, directly addressed Purinton in her victim-impact statement.

My husband was more than what you chose to address him as. Always kind, caring, and respectful to others. Srinu and I came to the United States of America full of dreams and aspirations Now, my American Dreamand that of Srinusis broken.

If you could have kept your anger inside and spoke to my husband softly, Srinu would have been more than happy to share his background and help you understand that not every brown skinned person is suspicious or evil, but kind, smart and contributing to America, she continued.

In announcing the sentencing, Attorney General Jeff Sessions called the crime detestable.

A promising young life has been tragically cut short, and other lives have been filled with suffering, he said. Securing this sentence is important not only to the victims and their loved ones, but also to our justice system and our nation as a whole.
The EU's high representative for foreign affairs and security policy Federica Mogherini arrives on the first day of a summit of EU leaders at the EU headquarters in Brussels, on March 22, 2018. (John Thys/AFP/Getty Images)

EU Rolls Out Measures to Shield European Firms from Iran Sanctions

'Blocking statute' goes into effect alongside US restrictions

WARSAWThe European Union has adopted an updated blocking statute under which European businesses will not have to comply with renewed sanctions imposed by the United States, targeting Iranian financial transactions that involve U.S. dollars, Irans automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes, and metals including gold.

More U.S sanctions targeting Irans oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

The revamped European measures, which were first drawn up by the EU in the 1990s, include provisions that allow EU companies impacted by the sanctions to sue the U.S. for damages in European Union courts.

The European Unions updated Blocking Statute enters into force on Aug. 7 to protect EU companies doing legitimate business with Iran from the impact of U.S. extra-territorial sanctions, reads a joint statement by the vice president of the European Commission, Federica Mogherini, and foreign ministers Jean-Yves Le Drian of France, Heiko Maas of Germany, and Jeremy Hunt of the United Kingdom.

EU efforts to shelter the blocs companies from the consequences of the sanctions may have a limited impact, as many European companies have already pulled out of Iran, arguing that they cannot risk the prospect of damage to their U.S. business.

The joint statement was issued at midnight on Aug. 6 in anticipation of the re-imposition of U.S. sanctions due to its withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal.

The statement also expressed the view that EU leaders expect Iran to continue to fully implement all its nuclear commitments under the JCPOA.

A Horrible Deal

U.S. President Donald Trump declared the 2015 Iran nuclear deal had been horrible, leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

The JCPOA, a horrible, one-sided deal, failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb, and it threw a lifeline of cash to a murderous dictatorship that has continued to spread bloodshed, violence, and chaos, Trump said in an Aug. 6 statement.

In an early-morning tweet on Aug. 7, U.S. President Donald Trump said the re-imposition of sanctions means, Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States.

I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!

Messages of opposition and support followed, including this post by Iranian political commentator and human rights activist Heshmat Alavi: #Irans regime doesnt want world peace. TY for having the courage to stand alongside the Iranian people. #IranProtests continue & rest assured we Iranians know these sanctions target the mullahs regime, not us. More sanctions = lesser crackdown ability for the regime & #IRGC.

#Irans regime doesnt want world peace.

TY for having the courage to stand alongside the Iranian people.#IranProtests continue & rest assured we Iranians know these sanctions target the mullahs regime, not us.

More sanctions = lesser crackdow abilityn for the regime & #IRGC.  Heshmat Alavi  (@HeshmatAlavi) August 7, 2018

Social Unrest in Iran

The sanctions take effect as widespread protests grip Iran with citizens calling for regime change. The protesters are angry about corruption within the regime and the use of the countrys wealth to fund malign activities in the region instead of helping the Iranian people.

Senior U.S. administration officials told reporters on Aug. 6 that the United States supports the Iranian people but is not calling for regime change. The officials accuse Irans rulers of being the biggest funders of terrorism in the world, supporting dictators, and playing a destabilizing role in the Middle East. The sanctions are part of an effort to change the regimes behavior, the officials said.

Trump deferred the reimposition of two sets of sanctions against Iran by 90 and 180 days when he withdrew from the nuclear deal in May. Iran started to suffer from the sanctions even before the measures came into effect. The nations currency is collapsing, more than 100 international companies announced their intent to leave the country, and unemployment is rising.

I am pleased that many international firms have already announced their intent to leave the Iranian market, and several countries have indicated that they will reduce or end imports of Iranian crude oil, Trump said in a statement on Aug. 6.

We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy or continue down a path of economic isolation.

The details of the sanctions are set out in an executive order Trump signed on Aug. 5 in Bedminster, New Jersey.

Trump Offers to Meet Iranian Leaders

On July 30, Trump offered to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani without preconditions. Iran responded to the offer by demanding that the United States rejoin the Iran nuclear deal as a condition for meeting.

Iran, and its economy, is going very bad, and fast! Trump wrote on Twitter on Aug. 4. I will meet, or not meet, it doesnt matter  it is up to them!

A senior U.S. administration official said that the sanctions will remain in place until Iran stops enriching uranium and ceases its malign activity in the Middle East.

We are intent on cutting off the regimes access to resources that they have systematically used to finance terror, fund weapons proliferation, and threaten peace and stability in the region, the official said.

Our actions will continue to severely limit the ability of Iran, which as you know is the largest state sponsor of terror, to gain funding to continue to finance its wide range of malign behavior.

China, Russia, Germany, France, Britain, and the European Union are still party to the Iran nuclear deal.

Ivan Pentchoukov and Reuters contributed to this report.
Charlotte Rae arrives at the 2014 PALEYFEST Fall TV Previews - "The Facts of Life" Reunion in Beverly Hills, Calif., on Sept. 15, 2014 (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

Facts of Life Star Charlotte Rae Dies at 92

LOS ANGELESCharlotte Rae, who played a wise and patient housemother to a brood of teenage girls on the long-running sitcom The Facts of Life during a career that encompassed many other TV roles as well as stage and film appearances, has died. She was 92.

Rae died at her Los Angeles home Sunday with her family at her side, said her publicist, Harlan Boll. A cause of death was not immediately available, but Rae was diagnosed last year with bone cancer after beating pancreatic cancer, Boll said.

She originated the character of Mrs. Garrett in 1978 during the first season of NBCs comedy Diffrent Strokes, then took Mrs. Garrett with her for the spinoff Facts, which premiered the following season.

Initially set at a girls boarding school, that NBC series ran for nine seasons. Rae left after its seventh year, however, explaining later, I needed some time for the rest of my life.

The Facts role came to Rae after years of theater and television performances. She earned an Emmy nomination for the part, and she was a two-time Tony nominee for her work on Broadway.

Her last feature film credit was Ricki and the Flash with Meryl Streep in 2015. That same year she released her autobiography The Facts of My Life, co-written by her son Larry Strauss.

Mindy Cohn and Kim Fields, who played members of Mrs. Garretts brood, recalled her lovingly.

She was my champion, a teacher, a proud example of the tenacity and perseverance needed to live as a creative, along with your talent and gifts. i love you char, Cohn, who played Natalie, posted on Instagram.

Sorry, no words at the moment just love and tears and yeah, smiles, tweeted Fields, who portrayed Tootie.

Tony Award-winning actress Audra McDonald tweeted: She was so sweet, funny, wise, lovely, and brilliant. She will be so missed. Rest In Peace Sweet Charlotte Rae.

Todd Bridges, who was on Diffrent Strokes, said on Twitter that she was beloved by all her colleagues and that the show would not have been the same without you.

Rightful Praise

Edna Garrett provided kind if sometimes wry counsel to her Facts of Life charges (which, besides Cohn and Fields, included Lisa Whelchel, Nancy McKeon and Molly Ringwald) on a series that was praised for dealing with such sensitive issues of teenhood as sex, drug use, eating disorders and peer pressure.

I wanted to bring in as much humanity as possible, as well as the humor, Rae told The Associated Press early in the shows run. I dont want her to be Polly Perfect, because she must have human failings and make mistakes.

Her own life was marked by tragedy, Rae told the AP in a 2015 interview. She said the most devastating thing she faced was her son Andy Strauss diagnosis of autism at a time when there was far less understanding of or attention to the disorder. Andy died in his mid-40s of a heart attack in 1999.

Born Charlotte Rae Lubotsky in Milwaukee, on April 22, 1926, she had studied drama at Northwestern University, then moved to New York where, despite early plans to be a serious actress, she quickly found work doing satirical sketches in Greenwich Village clubs.

It was there that Broadway producers, who frequented such bistros, discovered her, leading to her first Broadway musical, called Three Wishes for Jamie, in 1952. A few years later, she originated the role of Mammy Yokum in the Broadway musical Lil Abner.

On to the Screen

Rae made numerous TV appearances in 1950s drama anthologies including The U.S. Steel Hour, Playhouse 90 and Armstrong Circle Theater, sharing the black-and-white screen with such actors as Zero Mostel, Art Carney and Gertrude Berg.

In 1961 she became a semi-regular on the New York-based cop sitcom Car 54, Where Are You? as the wife of the NYPD officer played by future Munsters grandpa Al Lewis.

She received Tony nominations in 1966 for Pickwick and in 1969 for Morning, Noon and Night.

In the early 1970s, Rae moved to Los Angeles with her then-husband, composer and music editor John Strauss, and their sons Andy and Larry. There she was cast in the short-lived Norman Lear sitcom Hot L Baltimore and a similarly unsuccessful variety show hosted by Rich Little before scoring Diffrent Strokes, on which Mrs. Garrett was the familys housekeeper.

Rae stayed busy with film and stage appearances, including 1971s Bananas from Woody Allen and 1979s Hair. Other credits included the 2008 comedy You Dont Mess with the Zohan and the 2012 thriller Love Sick Love.

In 2005, at age 79, she appeared in a new comedy, Leading Ladies, at Fords Theater in Washington.

In addition to son Larry, she is survived by sister Miriam Guten and three grandchildren.

Services were pending, Boll said.

By Lynn Elber
FILE PHOTO: A firefighter knocks down hotspots to slow the spread of the River Fire (Mendocino Complex) in Lakeport, California, U.S. July 31, 2018. (Reuters/Fred Greaves/File Photo)

Firefighters Battle to Save Communities From Epic California Fire

LOS ANGELESCrews battling the second-largest wildfire on record in California fought on Aug. 6 to keep flames from descending into foothill communities, as reinforcements arrived from as far away as Alaska.

The Mendocino Complex Fire, made up of two separate conflagrations that merged at the southern tip of the Mendocino National Forest, had burned 273,664 acres (110,748 hectares) as of Aug. 6 and was still growing, on track to potentially become the largest in state history.

Unfortunately, theyre not going to get a break anytime soon, National Weather Service meteorologist Brian Hurley said of firefighters who had cut buffer lines around 30 percent of the blaze. Its pretty doggone hot and dry, and its going to stay that way.

Hurley said temperatures could reach 110 degrees (43 Celsius) in Northern California over the next few days with gusty winds fanning the flames.

The Mendocino Complex, which has destroyed 75 homes and forced thousands to flee, is the largest of eight major wildfires burning out of control across California, prompting U.S. President Donald Trump to declare a major disaster in the state.

A total of nearly 3,000 people were fighting the Mendocino Complex Fire, including crews from Arizona, Washington and Alaska.

Some 200 soldiers from the 14th Brigade Engineer Battalion at Joint Base Lewis-McChord near Tacoma, Washington, have also been called in to help in one of the most destructive fire seasons on record.

On Aug. 5, 140 fire managers and specialists from Australia and New Zealand underwent special training and were issued safety gear at the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise before being deployed to fires in the Pacific Northwest and California.

Crews battling the Mendocino Complex on Aug. 6 were focusing on keeping flames from breaking through fire lines on a ridge above the foothill communities of Nice, Lucerne, Glen Haven, and Clearlake Oaks, said Tricia Austin, a spokeswoman for Cal Fire.

If it were to be carried outside of those lines they have on the ridge, it could sweep down into those communities, thats what were trying to prevent, she said.

Elsewhere in California, evacuations were ordered for cabins in Cleveland National Forest canyons in Orange County on the afternoon of Aug. 6 after a blaze broke out and quickly spread to blacken some 700 acres (283 hectares).

The Carr Firewhich has torched 163,207 acres (66,047.5 hectares) in the scenic Shasta-Trinity region north of Sacramento since breaking out on July 23was 45 percent contained.

The Carr Fire has been blamed for seven deaths, including a 21-year-old apprentice PG&E lineman Jay Ayeta, whom the company said on Aug. 5 was killed in a vehicle crash as he worked with crews in dangerous terrain.

By Dan Whitcomb, Rich McKay, Jonathan Allen and Laura Zuckerman
A Florida sheriff responded to Al Sharpton after he criticized his office for not arresting a white man who shot and killed an unarmed black man in a parking lot confrontation. (Stephanie Lam/The Epoch Times)

Florida Sheriff Slams Al Sharpton Over Rally: Go Back to New York

A Florida sheriff responded to Al Sharpton after he criticized his office for not arresting a white man who shot and killed an unarmed black man in a parking lot confrontation.

Sharpton criticized Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri for not filing charges against Michael Drejka, the man who shot Markeis McGlockton, according to TampaBay.com.

Gualtieri said that Drejka wasnt arrested because of Floridas stand your ground self-defense law, but the Pinellas-Pasco State Attorneys office is reviewing the case to determine whether charges should be brought against the man.

Its a bunch of rhetoric. I dont pay much attention to it to tell you the truth, the sheriff said in response to Sharptons remarks. I wasnt there, and I dont really care what Al Sharpton has to say. Go back to New York. Mind your own business.

If you got to the scene, Mr. Sheriff, and Markeis had been standing over the white man, you would have cuffed him and taken him to jail, Sharpton had said during a rally on Aug. 5. Drejka killed an unarmed black man who was standing up for his family. Lock him, or give up your badge.

After Gualtieris comment, Sharpton issued a statement via a spokesperson comparing Gualtieris comments to those of sheriffs out of the 1960s that used to call civil rights leaders invited in by victims, outside agitators, according to TampaBay.com.

In response, Gualtieri said theres no evidence that race was a factor in the McGlockton case to show race was a factor, adding that his comments were directed at Sharptons remarks.

Its really easy to go around throwing wild allegations that have no basis in the air and inflaming people when theres just no basis for it, he said. Thats wrong and irresponsible.

Apple, iPhone, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

The facts and the law matter, he said regarding the politicization of the incident. Learn the facts and learn the law, and then you can opine.

A legal analyst, Anthony Rickman, told Fox that when a prosecutor looks at this case, theyre not looking at it as to whether it will be popular. Its whether or not they can prove this charge.

Theyre going to take their time, said Rickman of the prosecutors. They will base their decision on the facts, the evidence, the video, and more importantly the law.
Nikolas Cruz, facing 17 charges of premeditated murder in the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, appears in court for a status hearing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Feb. 19, 2018. (Reuters/Mike Stocker/Pool)

Florida Shooting Suspect Says Demons in His Head Told Him to Kill

The Florida shooting suspect told a detective that the demons in his head told him to kill people, in an interview on the day of the incident. Seventeen people were killed and 16 wounded at Marjory Stoneman High School on Feb. 14.

Nikolas Cruz made the statement during a long interview that included a confession. A transcript was released on Aug. 6.

Cruz said there were demons, or voices, in his head and that the voices started getting worse when his mother died. Cruz, who was adopted, had already lost his adopted father in 2005, which is when the voices started originally.

Asked what the voices told him, Cruz said: Burn. Kill. Destroy.

Asked what they would want him to burn, kill, and destroy, Cruz said: Anything.

He later said that the voice told him to hurt people in general.

Cruz said he had gone to a park a week prior to the school shooting and planned to start shooting people there, but he was able to stop himself from doing it.

The detective tells Cruz that everybodys got a good and a bad side, but the teenager doesnt seem to believe him. Do they really? he asked.

Many portions of the manuscript are redacted, dozens of pages.

Cruz also said he had tried to kill himself recently, and disclosed he regularly used a lot of drugs that no one knew about, including marijuana and Xanax.

Cruz said he had not taken any drugs the day of the shooting.

He also told the detective that he had originally purchased the AR-15 to feel safe, and that prior to the Parkland shooting had only shot it twice, both times in his mothers garage.

Cruz also said he had no friends and that hed left school after getting into a fight with another boy over his girlfriend at the time.

Judge Elizabeth Scherer decided to make the transcript public after media outlets pressed for its release under Floridas law requiring most evidence be made public once its turned over by prosecutors to the defense.

Cruz appeared in court July 16, reported WPBF, and his attorneys said he would plead guilty in exchange for a life prison sentence, but the state attorney has already rejected that proposal.

Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.

From NTD.tv

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Emanuel gutted the detective division, now hes trying to catch up, and the violence in Chicago is out of control, Vallas told me on Tuesday. And at some point, you have to put politics aside and you have to manage. The problem is that Emanuel is a D.C. politician, and what do they ever manage in D.C., where every decision made is political? Its all political, its all spin, its what they do.
Former Media Mogul, Philanthropist H.F. Lenfest Dies at 88

PHILADELPHIAH.F. Gerry Lenfest, who made a $1 billion fortune in the cable industry and gave almost all of it away, supporting schools, museums, journalism and the arts in Philadelphia and beyond, died Sunday, a family spokesman said.

Gerry Lenfest was 88. He was taken Sunday from his Rittenhouse Square home to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead of complications from chronic illness, said Fred Stein. Stein will handle a memorial service planned in Philadelphia in September.

There is likely not an organization or charity in Philadelphia that didnt benefit from the Lenfest familys generosity in some way, said Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf. Gerry was a great human being and an even better citizen.

Lenfest and his wife, Marguerite, made about $1.2 billion when they sold Suburban Cable to Comcast Corp. in 2000. The Lenfests immediately set out to give away the fortune. By 2014, as he stepped in to help Philadelphias ailing newspapers, Gerry Lenfest estimated he had given away $1.1 billion.

Money is a responsibility when you have that kind of wealth. Ive tried to do right by it. Perhaps the greatest opportunity came with the ownership of these newspapers, Lenfest said in 2016 when he donated the newspapers to a newly created nonprofit. What would this city be without the Inquirer and Daily News?

Generous Philanthropist

The Lenfests also gave to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts and Lenfests alma maters: Mercersburg Academy, Washington and Lee University and Columbia University. Wilson College, Marguerites alma mater, also received funds. Lenfest also gave $50 million to champion the new Museum of the American Revolution, which opened in April 2017 and, he felt, provided the missing link to tie together the citys historic sites.

Their three children didnt need the moneythey were given stakes in Lenfests cable company when it wasnt worth muchand Gerry Lenfest said he feared a permanent foundation would do more to perpetuate itself than help others.

During your lifetime, you can direct how your wealth is spent for the most good. But after your death, it is problematic. You dont have the control, Lenfest told The Philadelphia Inquirer in 2004.

Within four years, the Lenfests had given away $325 million and dropped off Forbes magazines list of the 400 richest Americans. Nearly half that money$150 millionwent to a foundation named for them that must spend its last penny within 20 years of the last spouses death.

At age 84, Lenfest unexpectedly became the sole owner of The Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Daily News and the website Philly.com. His business partner, Lewis Katz, had died in a plane crash in June 2014 just days after they paid $88 million to buy the company from rival co-owner George Norcross.

Though the Lenfests lived a luxurious life with yachts, expensive cars and multiple homes, friends described them as down-to-earth. They spent much of their time at their house in Huntingdon Valley, which they bought for $35,000 in 1966. With no help, the Lenfests cooked for guests.

Humble Beginnings to Altruistic Service

Harold FitzGerald Gerry Lenfest and his twin sister, Marie, were born in 1930 in Jacksonville, Florida, but soon moved to Scarsdale, New York, where their father worked in the shipping industry.

When Lenfest was 13, the family moved to a farm near Lambertville, New Jersey, where Lenfest had no shortage of chores. He went to Flemington High School and graduated from Mercersburg Academy in south-central Pennsylvania.

He graduated from Washington and Lee with a degree in economics in 1953, served with the Navy in Norfolk, Virginia, and got his law degree from Columbia.

He worked for a New York law firm before landing a job in 1965 with Walter Annenbergs Triangle Publications, which owned TV Guide, Seventeen magazine, several TV and radio stations, and cable franchises.

In 1973, Annenberg decided to sell the cable assets. Lenfest, with the help of two investors, ended up buying the system in Lebanon, Pennsylvania.

I was editorial director and publisher of Seventeen magazine and I had an office on Park Avenue. I had a good salary, Lenfest recalled in 2000. I left all that to work out of my basement for 12 years, not nationally known, not a good salary. I used to sleep on the sofa in Lebanon, because I couldnt afford a hotel room.

That one system in Lebanon eventually became Suburban Cable, the 11th-largest cable company in the country.

Lenfest expanded slowly at first. He grew the system in Lebanon, set up cable franchises in towns around Philadelphia and by 1981 the company had about 40,000 subscribers. The company acquired systems in and around San Francisco and pushed hard to expand in the Philadelphia area.

By the time Lenfest sold Suburban to Comcast in 2000, it had 1.2 million subscribers.

After his Navy service, Lenfest spent 24 years in the Reserves. He was honorably discharged with the rank of captain.
The defendant Christian L. (L) leaves the courtroom after sentencing, on Aug. 7, 2018. He faces 12 years in jail for his role in the repeated sexual abuse of a young boy. (Thomas Kienzle/AFP/Getty Images)

German Couple Jailed for Selling Minor to Pedophiles on Darknet

Case raises questions about the state of child-welfare services in Germany

A German mother and her partner were convicted Tuesday of the repeated rape of the womans young son and for selling him for sex on the internet, in a case that has horrified the country and raised questions about Germanys child-welfare system.

The 48-year-old woman and her 39-year-old partner, a convicted pedophile, were found guilty by a Freiburg state court, in southwestern Germany, of a range of acts against the child that include forced prostitution, sexual and physical abuse of a minor, distribution of child pornography, and rape.

The couple filmed the abuse and sold the recordings for large sums of money on the darknetan area of the internet beyond the reach of mainstream search engines.

The boy, now 10, was victimized over a period of two years; his mother had threatened to send him to foster care if he reported the crimes.

The woman, identified only as Berrin T.in line with German privacy lawswas sentenced to 12 and a half years in prison. Her partner, identified as Christian L., was sentenced to a prison term of 12 years.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reported that the couple must also pay 42,500 euros ($49,200) in damages to the boy and to a 3-year-old girl, who was also a victim of their abuse.

According to a report by The Guardian, judge Stefan Burgelin told the court that the woman initially took part in the abuse in order to prevent her partner from following through with threats to leave her. Burgelin said that later money became a driving factor.

Abusers allegedly paid up to 10,000 euros ($11,600) a time to abuse the boy, the court heard.

Both Berrin T. and Christian L. reportedly received slightly reduced sentences for assisting investigators in the identification of other perpetrators.

Six other men, including a Spanish man, a Swiss citizen, and three German men who had paid the couple to abuse the victim, were also convicted and sentenced to prison terms of between eight and 10 years.

According to The Guardian, one of the accused, a 44-year-old German man was prevented by the mother from carrying out his wish to kill him.

Police received an anonymous tip, enabling them to uncover the crime ring last September.

The boy is in the custody of foster parents and, according to a lawyer cited by AFP, is doing well, under the circumstances.

Failings of the Child Welfare System

German media reported that child welfare authorities in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg face biting criticism for alleged shortcomings that failed to break the abuse.

According to a report by the Daily Beast, at one point the boy had been removed from the couple temporarily by social workers, but was then handed back to them after the childs claims of abuse were not believed. The boy was not given a physical examination when he was initially removed from parental custody, which could have revealed the severity of the sexual abuse.

Spiegel news website reported that welfare officers had not exchanged information about the case. It is suggested that if the case workers had coordinated better, the couples crimes could have been detected sooner.

The Guardian reported that Wilhelm Rorig, a government-appointed envoy for abused minors, said family judges should receive more legal training in the sexual abuse of minors.

Rorig also called for more funding for youth services.

The Darknet

The emergence of the darknetthe hidden depths of the internet accessible only through tailored softwareposes challenges to police units fighting crimes like child prostitution and pornography.

While the Onion Router network, known as Tor, is often legitimately used by government agencies, activists, journalists, and whistleblowers who may want to shield their online activities, the system is also used by criminals to avoid detection.

A massive darknet bust was carried out last year by a range of law enforcement agencies in the United States and Europe.

Dimitris Avramopoulos, European commissioner for migration, home affairs and citizenship, said in a July 2017 press release The dark web [darknet] is growing into a haven of rampant criminality. This is a threat to our societies and our economies that we can only face together, on a global scale.

The takedown of two of the largest criminal darknet markets, AlphaBay and Hansa, toppled the infrastructure of an underground criminal economy responsible for the trading of over 350,000 illicit commodities including drugs, firearms, and cybercrime malware.

Apple, iPhone, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

The coordinated law enforcement action in Europe and the United States ranks as one of the most sophisticated takedown operations ever seen in the fight against criminal activities online.

By acting together on a global basis the law enforcement community has sent a clear message that we have the means to identify criminality and strike back, even in areas of the Dark Web [darknet], said Rob Wainwright, executive director of Europol, according to the release.

There are more of these operations to come, he said.
Leading gig economy companies including Uber and Lyft are quietly lobbying Californias top Democrats to override or undermine a court ruling that could make many of their contract workers into employees.

In April, the California Supreme Court issued a far-reaching ruling which could make it much harder for companies to claim their workforces of independent contractors are not full-fledged employees under the states wage laws. Over the months since, business leaders have been pleading their case to state officials including members of Governor Jerry Browns cabinet, Browns presumed successor Gavin Newsom, and members of the state legislature.

The business leaders are pushing to blunt the rulings impact, either through legislation or through executive action by the governormoves that would reverberate across the national debate over the rights and roles of workers in the modern gig economy, and what Democrats posture toward tech companies should be.

The magnitude of this issue requires urgent leadership, nine companies wrote in a July 23 letter reviewed by Bloomberg, which warns of the ruling stifling innovation and threatening the livelihoods of millions of working Californians and says that without political intervention it will decimate businesses. The letter was sent on behalf of Uber Technologies Inc., Lyft Inc., Instacart Inc., DoorDash Inc., Postmates Inc., TaskRabbit Inc., Square Inc., Total System Services Inc. and Handy Technologies Inc. It was addressed to the governors secretary of labor and cabinet secretary.

A spokeswoman for the governors office declined to comment on whether Brown, whose final term ends in January, was mulling granting the companies pleas.

An executive at one of the companies behind the push, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that because Brown and Newsom are both pro-tech and pro-worker, they are uniquely positioned to strike a compromise with the potential to be replicated. Forging a balance between the need for flexible, scalable work arrangements and workers rights shouldnt just be left to the courts or calculated based on old models, the executive said.

Spokespeople for Lyft, Handy, TaskRabbit, Square, Postmates and Instacart declined to comment on the companies lobbying efforts. DoorDash did not respond to inquiries. Spokespeople for TSYS and Uber referred requests for comment to the California Chamber of Commerce, which has been an outspoken opponent of the new requirements. If you have a business model that doesnt lend itself to the strict structure that an employer-employee relationship dictates, said the Chambers president and CEO Allan Zaremberg, then the ruling puts you in a situation that its almost impossible to continue your business model.

Zaremberg declined to comment on the prospect of executive action from the governors office, but said the Chamber aims to get a legislative fix introduced and passed by the states assembly and senate before the legislative session closes at the end of the month. Without it, he said, workers and companies alike will be hamstrung, and whole sectors of Californias economy could be in jeopardy. People depend very much now on an on-demand economy, said Zaremberg. In the worst-case scenario, it isnt a viable business model anymore.

The California Labor Federation pledged Aug. 5 to resist the efforts to suspend or reverse the ruling. With income inequality at an all-time high and millions of working families struggling to survive in this unfair economy, why would our states leaders intervene to protect big corporations from paying the wages owed to their workers? said the groups legislative director Caitlin Vega.

Federal and California state laws entitle employees to a suite of rights including minimum wage, overtime pay, protection from sexual harassment, payroll tax contributions from employers and the chance to win collective bargaining. Those perks dont extend to independent contractors, a category for workers with greater autonomy to choose the terms of their work. The boundary between an employee and a contractor can be fuzzy, though, and is defined differently under different laws. The question of who gets employee protections has been hotly contested in a slew of government agency proceedings and lawsuits around the country, frequently targeting app-based sectors like ride-sharing as well as older industries such as trucking and health care.

The April ruling in the California case, Dynamex Operations West Inc. v. Superior Court of Los Angeles, established whats sometimes called an ABC test for enforcement of the states wage laws. Among the key elements of the new standard, which is more stringent than most states or the federal governments, is the determination that people are employees of a company unless they are conducting work that is outside the usual course of the companys business. For businesses whose core capacity is delivering a service to customers via an army of workers classified as independent contractors, that could be a challenging test to pass.

The court ruling applied only to California, but companies worry that, along with upending their operations in the nations most populous state, it could be a harbinger of things to come elsewhere. The week after the Dynamex decision, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders introduced a bilbacked by a handful of fellow potential contenders for the Democratic Partys 2020 presidential nominationthat would make an equivalent ABC test the standard for federal labor laws, like who has the right to unionize.

Rather than treating that as an idle threat, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has already been lobbying congressional offices about the bill, according to federal disclosures. In meetings with U.S. Senate staff, business leaders have been emphasizing the downsides of Dynamexs ABC test, according to a person familiar with the conversations. Getting Democratically controlled California to pump the breaks on its new court-decreed standard could also have a significant impact on national-level discussions.

In their letter to Governor Brown, the businesses floated options to curtail the rulings influence. Those included issuing an executive order barring state agencies from implementing the ABC test, reviving a defunct state commission that could amend it and passing legislation that would suspend it. The companies cite an estimate by the pro-free-market research group R Street Institute that more than 300,000 California workers could be newly considered employees rather than independent contractors due to the ruling. Once the imminent damage from Dynamex is averted, the companies say in the letter, there could be a robust legislative discussion about how we can collectively invest to protect worker voices and benefits in the new economy, as well as a balanced test for who is an employee.

Besides the letter, the companies have also met with the governors office to plead their case, according to a person familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified because the meetings were private. And they have discussed the issue with the Democrats who lead the states assembly and senate and with Lieutenant Governor Newsom. Spokespeople for Newsom, Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, and Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins declined to comment.

Gig-economy startups arent the only companies concerned. The Im Independent Coalition, a project of the California Chamber of Commerce devoted to opposing the ABC test, also counts the Internet Association as a backer. The associations members include Google, Amazon, and Facebook, all of which also hire contractors. The internet industry is concerned about the implications of the Dynamex ruling and its potential to jeopardize internet-enabled, freelance work, the associations California government affairs director Kevin McKinley said in an emailed statement.

The Chambers coalition also includes the state associations representing restaurants, retailers, publishers, hospitals, shopping centers, child-care providers, farms, grape growers, manufacturers, trucking, taxis, ambulances, and insurers. The coalition has gathered statements from workers about why they prefer to be classified as contractors and is working to mobilize some for an Aug. 15 rally at the state capitol in Sacramento.

Company officials are also urging their own workers to join the cause. On Aug. 9, DoorDash sent an email to its California Dashers telling them that the Dynamex ruling threatens their flexibility to choose when, where and how you want to work, and providing a web tool to send their state legislators a message asking them to help protect my freedom to choose the way I work.

Attorney Shannon Liss-Riordan, who represents a worker suing DoorDash, responded by filing a motion Aug. 3 in federal court asking a judge to enjoin the company from engaging in further coercive and misleading communications that she alleged encourage workers covered by her putative class action lawsuit to undermine their claims in the case. DoorDash did not respond to inquiries.

Workers advocates have argued that responsible companies should welcome the clarity of the courts April ruling. Its been a bit of a free-for-all, particularly in California, where a whole economy of companies has risen up in recent years saying that they can build their workforce off of workers that dont have any employment protections, said Liss-Riordan, who also represents workers currently suing other gig economy companies including Uber, Lyft and Postmates over alleged denials of employee rights (the companies have denied wrongdoing).

Labor advocates say theres no reason for California to water down workers rights. These companies continue to have choices about their business model, union leaders from the states building trades, Teamsters union affiliates, and AFL-CIO chapter told Governor Brown and legislative leaders in a July letter reviewed by Bloomberg. They can convert workers to employees and retain control over their work rules and their rates. Or they can contract with true independent contractors. The only thing they cant do after Dynamex is have their cake and eat it too.
Health Authorities on High Alert After Rare Superbug Found in Australia

A Victorian man has been diagnosed with an uncommon fungal superbug that can cause serious infections and possibly cause death.

Health authorities in Victoria said in an alert on Aug. 7 that they believe the man had likely contracted the fungus Candida auris, also known as C. auris, during admission to a hospital in the United Kingdom. This is the first known case of the infection in Victoria.

Victorias deputy chief health officer, Dr. Brett Sutton, told the ABC that the man, who is in his 70s, had been colonized by the bug, but was not infected.

At the moment were confident that because hes been cared for in a single room, that the chances of an outbreak within our hospital systems is really very low, he told the news broadcaster.

The fungus infection is considered a serious global health threat and has caused outbreaks in over 20 countries on four continents around the world, including the United States and England.

Health services and public health laboratories have embarked on a search and destroy mission to stop the spread of the disease and prevent an outbreak of the infection in the state.

Concerns and Prevention

Candida auris infection has been a public concern due to its increasing prominence overseas. It was first discovered in 2009 in Japan, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Between June 30 and July 23 there were 340 confirmed cases of a Candida auris infection in the United States.

Health experts worldwide are worried about the spread of the disease due to its ability to often resist multiple anti-fungal medicines, making it challenging to treat.

The fungus can live on surfaces for months and can even colonize a patients skin for an extended period of time. Candida auris is also difficult to identify with standard laboratory methods, which can lead to misidentification and result in inappropriate management of the disease.

Outbreaks of candida auris often occur in health care settings, allowing it to spread readily in hospitals and nursing homes. It can spread by coming into contact with contaminated environmental surfaces or equipment, or from person to person, according to the CDC.

Patients in contact with the fungus may experience bloodstream infections, wound infections, and ear infections.

Sutton advised people that health authorities are taking all precautions and there was no need to panic.

Its a danger for people who are vulnerable, if theyve got significant, pre-existing illness, he told ABC. But for fit and healthy people, for visitors to hospitals, they dont need to worry about it.

Victoria health has provided a number of good general hygiene practices for patients and their family members who recently visited a hospital:

 Always wash your hands with soap and water after going to the toilet, before preparing and eating food, and before and after touching any wounds or medical devices that you may have.

 Use your own towels and face cloths. Do not share these items with other people.

 Cover any wounds with a bandage whenever possible.

From NTD.tv
A nurse looks for vaccines at a private clinic that performs vaccinations in Hong Kong on July 24, 2018. (Anthony Wallace/AFP/Getty Images)

In China, Consumer Confidence in Domestic Vaccines Remains Low as Parents Look Elsewhere for Safe Vaccines

In China, consumer confidence in domestically produced vaccines shows no sign of rebounding, after another incident involving possibly faulty vaccines came to light before being quickly rebuffed by local authorities as a false alarm.

On Aug. 3, an online article titled The Vicious Vaccine! Many Children Inoculated with Expired Vaccines in Shangluo, Shaanxi. And the Number Is Increasing began circulating on Chinese social media.

According to the article, one parent discovered that the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine his child received on March 1 was six months past its expiration date. The MMR vaccine was manufactured by Shanghai Institute of Biological Products, a private company founded in 1993.

Other parents in Shangluo, a city in northwestern Chinas Shaanxi Province, soon discovered that since 2015, their children were inoculated with expired encephalitis B vaccine, meningococcal vaccine, and DTap vaccine (immunity against diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus) manufactured by other domestic drug companies. One family said their child had received an expired DTap vaccine that was manufactured by Changchun Changsheng.

Last month, public uproar prompted Chinese authorities to investigate Changchun Changsheng and its parent, Changsheng Bio-technology, for producing substandard vaccines and failing to recall their products in time. Shandong Province in eastern China received most of the substandard vaccinestotaling over 250,000 doses of the faulty DTap vaccine.

Weeks later, another company, Wuhan Institute of Biological Productsa subsidiary run by the state-owned China National Pharmaceutical Groupwas swept up in the scandal, after a faulty TDap vaccine from Wuhan was used to inoculate more than 143,000 children in three cities in northern Chinas Hebei Province.

On Aug. 5, the Shangluo municipal government issued a statement, saying that after its own investigation into inoculation records and vaccine storage data, both the encephalitis B vaccine and meningococcal vaccine were still within their expiration dates, according to state-run news site China News. The authorities also said neither the MMR and DTap vaccine expired; their batch numbers were actually incorrectly recorded.

On Sina Weibo, Chinas equivalent of Twitter, many netizens expressed doubts that the Shangluo government was telling the truth. One netizen with the moniker LOVEcxh- from southern Chinas Guangdong Province wrote: Who can we trust now? As parents, we are very disappointed.

Hong Kong and Taiwan

The recent scandal has prompted many Chinese parents to look for safe vaccines beyond mainland Chinese bordersin Hong Kong, and in Taiwan. A search on the Chinese search engine Baidu reveals that many people have shared their experiences on how to receive vaccines in both places.

One article from Baidu explains the pros and cons of getting vaccines from government-run maternal and child health centers versus private clinics in Hong Kong. For example, the article explains that 5-in-1 or 6-in-1 vaccines (a combination vaccine with five or six individual vaccines) might be more readily available at private clinics, which would be more convenient for traveling Chinese parents.

The article also lists medical documents that Chinese parents must bring with them, advising parents to make a reservation prior to making the trip to Hong Kong health centers or clinics.

Mainland Chinese traveling to Taiwan to obtain safe vaccines is not a recent phenomenon. According to an Aug. 1 report by Taiwanese broadcaster SET News, mainland Chinese have been coming to the island country in recent years to receive Gardasil 9, an HPV vaccine (immunity against a form of cervical cancer) made by U.S. pharmaceutical company Merck.

While Gardasil 9 was made available to the public in Taiwan after passing regulatory approval in June 2016, the same vaccine only recently gained Chinas regulatory approval in May.

Since Gardasil requires three shots in six months, many mainland Chinese, after getting their first shot in Taiwan, take home with them the remaining two doses in a portable cooler. They then search for a doctor who will administer the remaining doses.

The concern about vaccines in China has sparked fear in Hong Kong that mainland Chinese would take up the vaccine supply in the special administrative region, leaving local children without vaccines. The current fear is rooted in a 2008 food-safety scandal in China, when mainland Chinese brands of infant formula were tainted with toxic melamine, prompting Chinese parents to travel to Hong Kong to buy foreign imported brands. They quickly emptied store shelves.

To ward off panic among worried Hong Kong parents, Pierre Chan, who represents the medical functional constituency in the Hong Kong Legislative Council, asserts that the Hong Kong Department of Health would make sure there is an adequate vaccine supply, according to a July 23 report by Hong Kong media Orange News.
An employee speaks over his phone as he sits inside the office of Ola cab service on the outskirts of New Delhi, India, on April 20, 2016. (REUTERS/Anindito Mukherjee)

Indias Ola to Launch in Britain as Uber Rivalry Heats Up

NEW DELHIIndian ride-hailing firm Ola said on Tuesday it plans to launch services in Britain this year, months after expanding operations in Australia, intensifying its rivalry with U.S. peer Uber Technologies Inc.

Ola has obtained licenses to begin operations in South Wales in September, as well as Greater Manchester, and plans to expand nationwide by the end of the year, it said in a statement.

The firm will offer private vehicles for hire as well as Britains famous black cabs on its platform, and will add more transportation options going forward.

Ola and Uber, which both count Japans SoftBank Group as an investor, have been competing in Indias $12 billion taxi market and in recent months have taken their rivalry overseas.

Ola is targeting high-booking markets in search of profitability because in India, less loyal consumers demanding low-cost rides makes competition more intense, said Neil Shah, research director at consultancy Counterpoint Research.

In February, Ola launched operations in Australia, its first foray outside India and in one of Ubers strongholds where the Indian company now has 40,000 drivers on its platform across seven cities.

Uber has a presence in Britain as well.

This could put pressure on Uber and cause them to possibly merge in India, said Shah, adding that Ola could use its international expansion strategy into Uber territories as leverage.

Uber, in March, decided to exit Southeast Asia, allowing it to focus on India.

Ola, founded in 2011, clocks one billion rides each year globally, and has more than one million driver partners in over 110 cities, it said.

The company is also expanding into food delivery, has partnered Microsoft Corp to build a platform for networked cars, and is experimenting with electric vehicles.

By Aditi Shah
Linde Group logo is seen at a company building in Munich-Pullach, Germany on Aug. 16, 2016. (Reuters/Michaela Rehle)

Linde Shares Drop as Praxair Merger Hits US Antitrust Hurdle

FRANKFURTShares in Linde dropped as much as 10 percent on Monday after the German industrial gases groups planned $86 billion merger with U.S. rival Praxair was thrown into doubt by more demands from U.S. antitrust regulators.

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is asking for more assets to be sold than previously anticipated and also wants prospective buyers to meet certain other requirements, Linde said in a statement on Sunday.

Linde and Praxair are analyzing these expectations to assess their scope and to evaluate how they could be implemented to achieve a timely clearance of the business combination, it said.

Analysts said the deal was still likely to go ahead, but the risk of it falling apart had risen and, with more forced sell-offs, the benefits had diminished.

The probability of a no-deal scenario has increased and the synergy potential has been reduced if the deal does go through, said Sebastian Satz of Barclays.

The regulatory challenge is a setback for Linde Chairman Wolfgang Reitzle, who has been a driving force for the deal and had to reshuffle management following the departure of the companys chief executive and finance chief.

The planned all-share merger, agreed in principle in December 2016, would create a global leader in gas distribution ahead of Frances Air Liquide, which had also bulked up with the takeover of rival Airgas.

The companies agreed at the time that if regulators demanded the disposal of businesses with more than 3.7 billion euros ($4.3 billion) in sales or 1.1 billion euros in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA), either party could withdraw without penalty.

Based on its discussions with the FTC and other regulators, Linde said there was a higher probability the two companies would need to sell assets exceeding the agreed threshold.

The companies have so far agreed to sell assets to a consortium of German gases firm Messer and buyout group CVC, as well as to Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corp, with combined annual sales of about 2.7 billion euros and roughly 700 million euros in EBITDA.

Linde said the companies remained in constructive talks with the regulators and with each other. It declined to comment beyond its statement. Officials at Praxair were not immediately available for comment.

The companies face an Oct. 24 deadline to complete the deal under German financial market rules.

Linde shares were down 9.4 percent at 1306 GMT (9:06 a.m. ET), trading at a three-month low.

Jefferies analyst Laurence Alexander said the companies were likely to get relatively low prices for additional divestments, but put the probability of the deal closing at more than 85 percent.

Reuters reported last month the European Commission was set to give its blessing to the tie-up after an in-depth review.

By Ludwig Burger
This photo shows Donald Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame that was vandalized Wednesday, July 25, 2018, in Los Angeles. Los Angeles police Officer Ray Brown said the vandalism was reported early Wednesday and someone was subsequently taken into custody. Authorities said a pickax was used in the vandalism. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)

Man Charged After Destroying Trumps Hollywood Walk of Fame Star With a Pickaxe

A 24-year-old man has been charged with vandalizing President Donald Trumps Hollywood Walk of Fame Star, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office.

Austin Mikel Clay from Glendale, California, has been charged with one felony count of vandalism for allegedly destroying the iconic star located on Hollywood Boulevard with a pickaxe before dawn on July 25.

If convicted, Clay faces a maximum of three years in jail.

Lt. Karen Leong, of the LAPD, told Los Angeles Times that after the vandalism had occurred, Clay had called police and advised he had vandalized Donald Trumps star and basically called on himself and said, See you soon.

The DA office said in a statement that Clay then turned himself into a police department the following day.

When people are unhappy with one of our honorees, we would hope that they would project their anger in more positive ways than to vandalize a California State landmark, Leron Gubler, president of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, said in a statement on July 25.

Statement by President/CEO- @HollywoodArea Chamber: When people are unhappy with one of our honorees, we would hope that they would project their anger in more positive ways than to vandalize a California State Landmark. @realDonaldTrump Star destroyed in Hollywood. pic.twitter.com/2J1nlZ7Bxl  Craig Fiegener (@CraigNews3LV) July 25, 2018

Clays bond has been set at $20,000. He is expected to be arraigned in court on Aug. 15.

The Hollywood star was previously vandalized by James Otis with a sledgehammer and pickax days before the November 2016 election. Otis was sentenced to three years of probation for vandalism, 20 days of community labor and ordered to pay $4,400 for the damage.

Otis told TMZ in July that he would like to pay for Clays bail.

President Trump received the star for his work on the reality show The Apprentice.

The Associated Press contributed to this report

From NTD.tv
According to Tribune data, it marked the worst violence of any single weekend in Chicago since at least before 2016, the year in which homicides hit records unseen for two decades. And Sunday saw more victims shot in a single day since at least September 2011, when the Tribune began tracking every shooting in Chicago. For the entire day, 47 people were shot, including a stunning 40 during a seven-hour period early Sunday.
Bank of Queensland (BOQ) has signed a $1.325 billion deal to acquire ME bank on Feb 22, paving its way to challenge the big four dominance. (Reuters/Edgar Su)

NAB in Crosshairs as Inquiry Turns Sights on Australian Pension Funds

SYDNEYNational Australia Bank will compensate thousands of pension fund customers who had paid for advice they did not receive, Australias financial-sector inquiry heard on Aug. 6 as it turned its sights on the pension industry.

The first day of hearings into Australias A$2.6 trillion ($1.9 trillion) pension system heard that a unit of NAB, the countrys fourth-largest bank, had charged customers plan service fees for advice they did not receive.

The misconduct occurred between 2012 and 2017 and affected more than 220,000 customers, barrister assisting the inquiry, Michael Hodge, said. The NAB subsidiary had promised to pay A$87 million ($64.3 million) in compensation, he added.

Under questioning, Paul Carter, a former executive general manager for NABs wealth division, said that in 2016 management had considered whether it could keep the money that had been misappropriated from customers.

You looked at that time at various justifications for why NAB might not need to refund that money to customers? Hodge asked.

To which Carter replied: I would rephrase that to say we were conducting an investigation to understand the issues and make sure the right decision was ultimately made for customers.

The powerful Royal Commission inquiry has already roiled the banking and funds-management industry and now it is the turn of Australias pension fund sector to answer questions about alleged misconduct and poor performance.

AMP Ltd, Commonwealth Bank of Australia, IOOF Ltd, Australia and New Zealand Banking Group and Westpac Banking Corp have also charged thousands of customers fees for advice that was not provided, Hodges said.

In his opening remarks at the start of hearings into the retirement system that are expected to last two weeks, Hodge said Australian pension funds were surrounded by temptation to put profits ahead of people.

He said the inquiry would examine the so-called fees-for-no-service problem from the perspective of the trustees who manufacture the retirement products.

The inquiry has already exposed similar practices throughout the banking and wealth management industries, wiping billions of dollars off the value of some of Australias biggest firms as investors brace for higher compliance costs and stricter regulation.

Pension funds in Australia operate as trusts, which means they must adhere to various laws such as ensuring investments are made prudently and members cared for.

In an attempt to contain the public backlash, late last month NAB announced it would stop charging such plan service fees for selected products.

Both NAB and CBA have announced plans to offload their wealth management and pension funds, two of the countrys largest, in the wake of the inquirys damaging disclosures.

The latest round of hearings may pile more pressure on the shares of the countrys four biggest banks and top financial planner AMPall of which the Royal Commission has called to appear in relation to their pension businesses.

Australia has the third-largest pension pool in the world, according to OECD data, due to laws requiring employers to pay nearly a tenth of every workers wage into a fund the person cannot usually access until retirement.

By Paulina Duran and Jonathan Barrett
Kanoa Igarashi surfs for the crowd against Griffin Colapinto during the men's final heat at the Vans US Open of Surfing on August 5, 2018 in Huntington Beach, California. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images)

New Heat Wave Hits Southern California Among the Hottest Days of the Year

The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning and a red flag wildfire warning for areas of Southern California from Monday (Aug. 6) afternoon through Tuesday (Aug. 7) evening.

High temperatures, high winds, and low humidity will raise the possibility of wildfires in the valleys and mountains. Triple-digit temperature and winds of over 30 miles per hour are expected in the Santa Clarita Valley and San Gabriel Mountains, according to NWS.

The Santa Clarita, San Fernando and San Gabriel Valleys will experience excessive heat starting from 10 a.m. Monday until 8 p.m. Tuesday, which sparks concerns for power shortages as well as heat-related diseases.

Its HOT outside  and the heat is expected to persist through most of this week. Remember  hot cars are deadly for kids and pets, even when parked in the shade and with windows open 1-2 inches! #SoCal #CAheat #LAheat pic.twitter.com/AeXch29b8V  NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) August 6, 2018

NWS Meteorologist Kathy Hoxsie said the last 10 days of July and the first 10 days of August normally rank among the hottest of the year, according to City News Service. Also, high air pressure normally shifts its position back and forth over Arizona and California during the summer. Sometimes the high pressure expands and sit over both the two areas, said Hoxsie, but this week the pressure will stay in California.

Last week, record-breaking high temperatures were observed at the sea surface in San Diego. 78.6 degrees was read at San Diegos Scripps Pier on Aug. 1, 78.8 degrees on Aug. 3, and 79.4 degrees on Aug. 5, which is higher than the record set 102 years ago, according to a report from Fox 5.

In addition, Death Valley National Park reported that it just experienced its hottest month on record with an average temperature of 108.1 degrees during July. During the day, highs often reached 120 degrees or higher, with a high in the valley of 127 degrees four days in a row.

The heat wave is expected to gradually weaken after Tuesday.
The New York State Senate debates legislation in the Senate chamber on June 16, 2011 in Albany, New York. (Photo by Matthew Cavanaugh/Getty Images)

New York Pushing Law to Allow 3-Month Leave for Death of Loved One

A new bill passed by lawmakers in New York would allow employees to take three months off after the death of a loved one. The bill still has to meet approval from Governor Cuomo.

Business owners are concerned about how the bill could impact operations. The bill includes 12 weeks off for the death of a spouse, domestic partner, child, parent, in-law, grandparent, or grandchild, according to CBS New York.

The bill was passed by the New York State Senate and Assembly in June. It hasnt reached Cuomo yet, according to the New York Post. The current Paid Family Leave policy gives time off for a parent to care for a new child or a sick relative. The new law expands on that and grants employees 50 to 67 percent of their average weekly wage for 12 weeks, but that average cannot exceed the state average, which is currently $680.

For a small business, I dont know how anybody could survive with anything like that, said Tom Grech, president of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, via the Post. At the end of the day, New York City and New York state are among the most expensive places to do business in the country. This just puts another burden on small businesses.

The bereavement bill was sponsored by state Sen. Rich Funke of Fairport and Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Morelle of Rochester. Both had adult children who died.

Those who have suffered similar tragedy in their lives understand there is no timetable on grief. Everyone is different, said Funke in June, according to the New York Post.

Greg Greenwood, owner of Bleeker Street Pizza, said the bill would make things awkward. He told CBS New York that he would have to train workers to replace those on leave, and then let them go after the three months is up.

Our business and any other small business it would be catastrophic. Twelve weeks paid leave. We need all the staff that we have, said Greenwood.

The CBS report cited a study that 90 percent of employers in the United States offer bereavement leave, but that it averages only four days.

From NTD.tv
Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) walks from Senate Republican weekly policy luncheon on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S, on Mar 6, 2018. (Reuters/Joshua Roberts)

Senator Rand Paul Invites Russian Lawmakers to Washington

MOSCOWU.S. Senator Rand Paul on Monday invited Russian lawmakers to visit Washington after holding talks in Moscow with parliamentarians and pledging to oppose new sanctions against Russia.

The Republican senator and ally of President Donald Trump said he had traveled to the Russian capital to encourage diplomacy amid tense relations between Moscow and Washington.

U.S. intelligence agencies say Russia interfered in the 2016 U.S. presidential election an assertion Moscow rejects. The two countries are also at odds over Iran, Syria, and Ukraine.

I am pleased to announce that we will be continuing this conversation, Paul said after meeting Konstantin Kosachyov, chairman of the upper house of parliaments foreign affairs committee, and former Russian ambassador to the United States Sergei Kislyak.

We have agreed and we have invited members of the foreign relations committee of Russia to come to the United States to meet with us in Washington. I think this is incredibly important. And those who believe in either country that we should not have diplomacy are greatly mistaken.

Pauls visit is the second time a U.S. political delegation has visited Russia within a month.

He said he opposed new sanctions legislation against Russia that was backed by a bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers last week, but said he represented a minority voice, Russian news agencies reported.

There is sanctions hysteria in the United States at the moment. I represent the minority. All the Democrats are now happy that new sanctions are being introduced, Paul was quoted as saying by the RIA news agency.

I can tell you I will try not to allow them to do this with ease, he was cited as saying.

Paul was expected to meet Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov during his visit.

The senator was one of Trumps most vocal supporters in Washington last month when the U.S. president came under fire for his handling of a summit with President Vladimir Putin.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions speaks at the 2018 Opioid Roundtable hosted by the National Sheriffs Association and the Daniel Morgan Graduate School of National Security, in Washington on May 3, 2018. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Sessions Slams Court Order to Reinstate DACA

Attorney General Jeff Sessions issued a sharp critique on Aug. 6 of a federal judge who ordered the reinstatement of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, saying the order equates to overreach by the judicial branch and hampers the Trump administrations efforts to protect the nation and its citizens.

U.S. District Judge John Bates of Washington ordered the administration to restore the DACA program in full on Aug. 3.

In September last year, President Donald Trump announced that he would end the program after six months. Since then, several judges barred the administration from doing so. Bates went beyond those prior court orders and ordered a full reboot. The Trump administration has 20 days to appeal the decision.

After Congress rejected a proposed law similar to DACA in 2012, President Barack Obamas Department of Homeland Security circumvented the legislative branch and enacted DACA through a policy letter. The Trump administration asserts that such a policy is illegal since only Congress is vested with lawmaking power.

Not only did the Trump Administration have the authority to withdraw this guidance letter, it had a duty to do so, Sessions said in a statement. As former President Obama previously said, the changes they attempted to effect through this policy letter can only be lawfully achieved by congressional action.

The attorney general also slammed the courts for using judicial power to steer, enjoin, modify, and direct executive policy.

The judicial branch has no power to eviscerate the lawful directives of Congressnor to enjoin the executive branch from enforcing such mandates, Sessions said.

The Trump administration will continue to defend its authority to enforce immigration laws, Sessions added.

The DACA program granted temporary legal status to 800,000 illegal aliens who were brought to the United States as children.

Trump has offered a solution to lawfully revive DACA in exchange for a package of immigration reforms, including a wall on the southern border. Congress rejected the proposal.
Paul Manafort departs U.S. District Court after a motions hearing in Alexandria, Virginia, U.S., May 4, 2018. (Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)

Star Witness Details Manaforts Alleged Tax Evasion Scheme

Paul Manaforts right-hand man testified at trial on Aug. 7 that Manafort instructed him not to tell their firms bookkeeper about payments from accounts in Cyprus that held millions of dollars in earnings from consulting work for politicians in Ukraine.

Rick Gates, the governments star witness in Manaforts trial on tax fraud and bank fraud charges, told a federal court jury in Alexandria, Virginia, that there were hundreds of emails showing Manafort approved payments out of the Cypriot accounts.

Gatess testimony on the trials sixth day was part of the prosecutions effort to prove that Manafort was responsible for financial maneuverings that he and other witnesses have testified include filing false tax returns and failing to report foreign bank accounts.

Manaforts defense is seeking to pin the blame on Gates himself, who has acknowledged embezzling from Manaforts firm. Gates admitted on Aug. 6 that he did steal money from Manafort through inflated expense reports, but he said it was hundreds of thousands of dollars, not millions as defense lawyers had stated.

Manaforts lawyers are expected to use the theft to try to undermine Gatess credibility as a witness. They also are likely to bring up his making false statements to investigators.

Gates testified about a complex scheme in which earnings from Manaforts political work in Ukraine would be paid by Ukrainian businessmen using companies in Cyprus to other Cyprus-based companies controlled by Manafort. To avoid taxes when wiring money to the United States, Manafort classified the transactions as loans, Gates said.

Manafort, 69, has pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of bank fraud, tax fraud, and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts. Gates pleaded guilty in February to lying to investigators and conspiring to defraud the United States and agreed to cooperate.

Manafort and Gates were both on the Trump campaign in 2016. Special counsel Robert Mueller charged both with crimes unrelated to the campaign.

Mueller investigating allegations of collusion between the Trump campaign and Russian. The special counsel has not produced any evidence or indictments related to collusion.

Reuters contributed to this report.
Sebastian Gorka, former deputy assistant to President Donald Trump, speaks at the High School Leadership Summit, a Turning Point USA event, at George Washington University in Washington on July 26, 2018. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Story of Post-WWII Hero a Lesson in Fighting for Freedom

WASHINGTONSebastian Gorka, former deputy assistant to President Donald Trump and a military and intelligence analyst, told an audience of teenagers recently that they are the front line for the defense of Americas freedom.

Ronald Reagan was right: The loss of liberty is always just one generation away, he said at Turning Point USAs High School Leadership Summit in Washington on July 26. You have to always be ready to fight for your freedom.

Gorka traced his personal connection to tyranny from 1945 to todays world.

Imagine a 15-year-old boy and hes living in what had been a beautiful city. The city, which after five years of war is ravaged, he said. In this case, its not the Middle East; Its Europe, and its not 2018, its 1945.

And this young boy has lived through the destruction of one of the most beautiful cities in the worldBudapest. And hes lived through the fascistthe Nazioccupation of his country, an occupation that even as a child affected him, Gorka recounted. Why?

Gorka said the boy was Catholic but had Jewish friends who went to the same school. And when the Nazis took over Hungary, the Jewish children began to be intimidated and brutalized by the fascists. When his Jewish friends were forced to wear the Star of David, the young boy would escort them to school to make sure they werent spat on or abused, Gorka said.

Then the war ends. The good guys win. [And] now, he has hope, said Gorka. [Hungary] would finally be free again. It would have democracy. It would have free markets. It would be allowed to finally choose its own government again.

But it wasnt to be. Over the next three years, as he grew up into a man, what happened? Gorka said. Fascism was replaced with communism.

The boy was now 18 and in college. He decided to fight against the regime and found eight others to join him in forming a secret underground organization that collected sensitive information on the communists and their crimes, Gorka said.

And they smuggled that information out to the West, so that maybe some democracy out there could help them: Help them restore their freedom, Gorka said. And he did so for eight months.

But the group was unknowingly sending the information to traitors working for the Soviet Union within Britains MI6 agency. One of the MI6 agents, Kim Philby, figured out the identities of the group and sent them to the Kremlin.

As a result, two years later, after trying to undermine that dictatorshipat the age of 20that young man who had started it all was arrested by the secret police, tortured in the cellar of their headquarters, and given a life sentence in a communist prison, Gorka said.

Then he dropped the plot twist: That young man was my father.

Gorka went on to say that his father was broken out of prison in 1956, during a brief student uprising in Hungary. He escaped, while facing a shoot to kill order on his head, and made it to England as a refugee, where Gorka was born and raised.

You must always be ready to fight for your freedom. Whether its from Nazis, whether its from communists or whether its from jihadis, he said. Whether its people in our own country who want to censor you, [or] want to use legislation to shut you down [or] who want to say, You dont get to have a First Amendment unless youre in this little free-speech zone. Well, guess what, our free-speech zone goes from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

Gorka told the young audience that they need to understand the history of human society. He said there are only two ways of running a society: One of them is about the government doing everything, and the other one is about guaranteeing that the individual has maximal liberty.

Of those two options, only one of them leads to some kind of relatively equitable situation, he said. The other one eventuallywhen it goes to the ultimate expressionleads to the death of millions.  The bigger the government the smaller the citizen.

Gorka advised the teens that the left tends to respond to emotion over facts.

They care about photographs of immigrant children who are put in cages. The fact they were put in cages by Obama is irrelevant. Facts dont matter, he said.

They care about justice. Social-justice warriors, right? Well, talk to them about justice, he said. Ask them: Which system of government has raised more people out of poverty and dictatorship than any other in the history of mankind? Free-market democracies, capitalist systems.

Gorka encouraged the young leaders to read a lot of books to increase their knowledge.

Appeal to the heart with your arguments. And spread the word. You have an amazing window now. We have six years  to undo 40 years of social engineering.
The College Trap

James Altucher on the alternatives to higher education

James Altucher knows a lot about being a student. A life-long learner, Altucher not only went to university to study computer science, but later taught himself to be a successful investor and entrepreneur.

Looking at the U.S. economy from his unique perspective on analyzing risks and opportunities, Altucher has found, unfortunately, that the student loan system may the single most destructive force in our country todaynot only for the individuals who have to pay back the debt, but for the whole economy. He has also found that the education system is severely lacking.

He sat down with The Epoch Times to discuss what needs to change in order for people to be better prepared for life and success.

The Epoch Times: James, we talked about student loans and how destructive they are in an earlier interview. In your opinion, what needs to change in the education system?

James Altucher: I graduated college, with a lot of student loan debt, in 1989. But that was a long time ago, when debt wasnt so high. So I was able to pay back all of my debt, and I was able to take risksstarting businesses and taking some risks, and then eventually selling a business.

And as soon as I sold my first business, I paid back all my debt. I actually paid back my wifes student loan debt as well. Then I was able to move on with life and have certain freedoms.

While starting businesses, I learned certain skill sets about creativity, sales, negotiating, coming up with ideas. I built up a network, and I built up all the things they dont teach you in high school but you learn in the real world, about how to find your own cushion to fall back on.

Its not like I went from success to success. I sold my first business, I made money, and then I went totally broke. I lost everything, but I had skills at that point. I majored in computer science. So I had a hard skill that I was able to use to build my first business.

And even after I went totally broke, I was able to take risks again because I didnt have any debt. And I had developed a skill set of networking and associating with good people and being creative. So I could develop unique ideas, I could negotiate, and I could sell.

I didnt know anything about business when I started my first business. I was lucky enough to be a programmer at the rise of the internet. So I had some fortunate things going on and then I was able to develop some skills.

Now, can the Utopian solution happen, which is in high school or earlier, can students learn creativity, negotiating sales, business tactics? I say general business skills, [meaning] with 100 micro skills in there. Some of them I mentioned like sales and negotiating, managing people, managing investors, raising money, executing, developing a product, developing a customer base.

There are lots of different micro skills that you have to develop when starting a business. Can a high school teach that? Before higher education? The answer is no, because theyre teaching math, English, science. Its going to be hard to take an entire country and say, Oh, all of your standardized tests, which were used to rank all your SATs, the education of teachersthrow that away completely and develop an entirely new form of teaching. Thats just not going to happen.

Also, the teachers are not business people or entrepreneurs. Theyre teachers, so theyre not going to be able to teach how to be entrepreneurs or creatives. They teach what theyre good at.

The other question is, not everyones cut out to be an entrepreneur. Some people are going to be artists, some people are going to be writers, some people are going to be policymakers. We shouldnt cut off those people, either.

The Epoch Times: If you had complete freedom to think of a system that would not have these problems, what would it be?

Mr. Altucher: The Utopian solution is to give people a framework at a younger age so that they realize they dont need the college experience to be a success in life. And I feel were aware that you dont need college to be a success in lifethere are many examples of people who didnt go to college who are successful.

But 18-year-olds, in general, want to go to college. They just want to. I dont know how you can suddenly change the mindset of all the teenagers in the country. Its too difficult. So its nice to be able to define a problem like Im doing with the student loans and [try] to propose a solution to the problem.

I think the solutions are all too Utopian, because the real problem is the price of tuition, as well as the student loans dished out by the government, no matter what the price of tuition is. So demand is just going to keep staying the same. The demands not going to go down for college, because somebody is willing to supply you the money.

And its not like there are that many new colleges that are being created now. There are online colleges being created but theyre not being accredited. Students think you need to go to an accredited college, meaning the government approves this college. There arent many online accredited universities. So supply is not really going up and demand is staying the same or rising.

The price is just going to keep going up, and I dont really see any solution to that, unless an entire generation of kids says, Oh, we dont want to go to college anymore.

The Epoch Times: But you do point out that going to college is not necessary to be successful.

Mr. Altucher: I am saying dont go to college or go study online courses for almost free and you could get a better-than-college education online now for almost nothing.

I once did an interview with a kid who got an entire MIT computer science degree online. There are online videos of the courses, and he took all the tests, got them graded, and everything. He did it all online in one year for no money.

Did he get a degree? No. So thats the problem. He got all the skills because he took four years of classes for free.

But still, kids dont want to do that. They want to go to college, and I dont blame them. College is great, and they dont how to say no to somebody whos saying Heres $200,000, go to MIT.

I wrote a book, 40 Alternatives to College. It was the No. 1 book on Amazon under College for years. Did that really persuade people? Maybe one or two. But tens of millions of kids are going to college. I think there are around 40 million people with student loan debt right now that they cant afford really.

But the college alternatives are great. You can choose not to go to college, and your life will be incredible. If youre motivated and even if youre not motivated  You could be a bartender while youre 18, 19, 20 years old. Maybe youll have some money saved, youll have life experiences, and then you can say, Wait, Im interested in gender studies. Then you can study it online, and you can have a successful career.

Or you could say, Ive been working as a bartender for three years. I have an idea for a new app for bartenders. You could build a business and sell it, or at least make enough money to supplement your income. Theres a wide range of things you could do. So life could be great if you dont go to college, but its hard to convince a whole generation of people of that.

Interview has been edited for brevity and clarity
Home Secretary Sajid Javid at Downing Street on July 17, 2018 in London, England. A leaked letter from police commissioners to Javid on Aug. 7 warned of the risks to security of "crashing out" of the EU with no deal. (Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

UK Police Warn No-Deal Brexit Risks Public Safety

Leaked letter warns leaving EU with no deal will bring 'significant loss of operational capacity' as current security ties are severed

LONDONCrashing out of the EU with no deal poses a potential risk to public safety, the UK national crime commissioner has warned in a leaked letter that outlines the impact of severing security ties with the bloc.

As Brexit negotiations enter the final phase, companies and institutions across the UK and EU have been ratcheting up preparations for a no-deal scenario, amid fears that customs, border, and trading arrangements will not be in place in time.

But these arent the only arrangements that would be ironed out in a dealthe very close security ties between the EU and UK are also in the mix.

Suddenly severing those tieswhich include shared databases on terrorism, missing people, and passport detailswith no contingency plan could result in a significant loss of operational capacity warned a letter from police chiefs to the secretary of state.

The letter was leaked to The Guardian newspaper, which said it was from the cross-party Brexit working group of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) and that it was drafted after consultation with the National Crime Agency and the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC).

The letter, revealed on Aug. 6, warned that the group was increasingly concerned that such a loss of capacity could pose significant risks to our local communities.

Brexit negotiations are due to wrap up just five months before the UK jettisons itself from the EU treaty at midnight on March 29, 2019.

Chance of a No-Deal Brexit

If no deal is in place, this creates a very challenging time-frame to prepare for the loss of the EU-wide powers, warned the letter.

Considerable additional resource would be required for policing to operate using non-EU tools and that such tools would be suboptimalpotentially putting operational efficiency and public safety at risk, it reads.

Recruitment, vetting, and training of staff to use these tools would take a substantial amount of time. We are therefore concerned that a no-deal scenario could cause delays and challenges for UK policing and justice agencies.

Responding to the leaked letter, NPCCs Lead for Brexit, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Richard Martin, said, From a policing perspective, it is in the interests of both sides to negotiate an arrangement that allows for continued close working.

Without such arrangements, both UK police and EU member states will lose capabilities including identifying criminals and missing persons who cross our borders, detaining and swiftly surrendering suspects under EAWs [European Arrest Warrants], quickly identifying previous history of offending, or the sharing of biometric data.

Martin said a small team is drawing up contingency plans.

The chance of a no-deal Brexit was recently put at 6040 by international trade secretary Liam Fox, who blamed intransigence of EU negotiators for the current impasse.

His comments were followed by a fall in the pound to the lowest level in 11 months, which many analysts attributed to increasing nervousness over the prospect of no deal and the related prospect of crashing out without sufficient preparations.

On Aug. 3, Bank of England Governor Mark Carney said the chances of a no-deal Brexit had become uncomfortably high.
Since then, authorities have been sorting through conflicting versions of how the tragedy unfolded and investigating whether neglect played a role in Maqkwones death. Maqkwone, two brothers ages 8 and 9 and a 2-year-old sister had been in the foster care of their mother's cousin since September 2017 when their mother was investigated for child abuse and neglect, according to the Department of Children and Family Services.
Forest burns in the Carr Fire west of Redding, California on July 30, 2018. (Terray Sylvester/Getty Images)

US Army Sends Soldiers to Battle Western Wildfires

The U.S. Army is deploying 200 troops from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, to help fight wildfires raging across the Western states.

Pentagon spokesman Army Colonel Robert Manning III announced on Aug. 6, that the 200 soldiers would be split into 10 teams of 20 and assigned to fight a single fire.

The army is already pitching in to fight fires in California, Col. Manning told the press. Currently, four military C-130 [Hercules aircraft] equipped with modular airborne firefighting systems are serving as large air tankers and are operating from Sacramentos McClellan Airport in California, he announced.

Amazing photos taken yesterday over the #CarrFire and at #Redding Airport. The 146th Airlift Wing, @USNationalGuard, assists fighting the #California wildfires with two MAFFS-equipped C-130s. #GoGuard! pic.twitter.com/aEnVTU4T3k  U.S. Dept of Defense (@DeptofDefense) August 4, 2018

He added that an RC-26 Metroliner aircraft based in Spokane, Washington, was helping the Forest Service to detect and monitor wildfires in the Western states.

The troops will be trained and deployed to assist civilian firefighters at the request of the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) in Boise, Idaho.

Already, thousands of National Guardsmen are actively assisting in fire-fighting efforts in several states, including Oregon, California, and Washington.

Unusual Amount of Wildfire Activity

The NIFC reported that more than 134 wildfires were actively burning on some 1.6 million acres across California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Arizona, and Alaska.

Weather and fuel conditions are predicted to continue being conducive to wildfire ignitions and spread in most of the western U.S. for the next several weeks, the Center stated in an Aug. 6 press release.

We are committed to continuing to do everything we can to provide the firefighters, aircraft, engines, and other wildfire suppression assets that Incident Commanders need to protect lives, property, and valuable natural and cultural resources, said Dan Smith, Chair of National Multi-Agency Coordinating Group (NMAC) at NIFC.

In the release, NIFC explained that the soldiers would be outfitted with wildland fire Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and whatever other gear they might need to serve as wildland firefighters. On the ground, they would be supervised directly by experience civilian wildland firefighting strike-team leaders.

Further, the soldiers would receive an intensive, three-day training program while at their base near Tacoma, Washington. Much of the training will focus on firefighter safety, and how to be aware of developing dangerous situations.

According to NIFC, troops are expected to be on the ground and fighting a fire by Monday, Aug. 13.

NIFC notes that the Army has been an important partner in wildfire containment for decades, providing both personnel and equipment.

Since 1987, U.S. Army personnel have been trained and deployed as firefighters 37 times. The latest instance was in Sept. 2017, when 200 soldiers were called out to assist with the North Umpqua Complex wildfires in Oregon.

From NTD.tv

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Indonesia's foreign minister Retno Marsudi (L) attends the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Ministerial Meeting in Singapore on Aug. 2, 2018. (Mohd Rasfan/AFP/Getty Images)

US Seeks $350M Annual Trade Sanctions on Indonesia

After years of arguments at the World Trade Organization (WTO), the United States wants to retaliate against Indonesia for choking American imports. But under the WTO rules, it could take years before the United States will be allowed to do so.

The Indonesian trade barriers on certain agricultural products made the United States lose up to $350 million on trade in 2017, according to an Aug. 2 WTO filing.

Indonesia has maintained restrictions on imports such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, cattle, beef, and poultry since 2012, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (OTR).

The office oversees trade negotiations with other countries and has been complaining about Indonesias behavior. New Zealand joined in the complaint.

In 2017, the United States and New Zealand secured a WTO ruling in their favor after Indonesias unsuccessful appeal.

But the latest U.S. filing said Indonesia had not complied with the ruling, so Washington is seeking annual sanctions to compensate for the damage to U.S. interests.

The process of seeking compensation often takes years, and Indonesia is likely to contest the size of any potential sanctions.

Indonesia is still studying the U.S. move to seek sanctions, said Oke Nurwan, trade ministrys director general of foreign trade, adding that authorities believe Jakarta had complied with the WTO decision. He said rules on Indonesian food imports had already been revised.

There was no immediate sign of a similar sanctions request from New Zealand.

Indonesia has been lobbying U.S. officials to keep the Southeast Asian nation on a list of countries that receive special trade terms under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which gives reduced tariffs to about $2 billion of Indonesian exports.

The OTR stated in April it was reviewing Indonesias eligibility for GSP in light of Jakartas trade and investment barriers.

Indonesias trade minister Enggartiasto Lukita said in July that Indonesia will remove trade barriers for U.S. apples as part of lobbying for GSP. Indonesia scrapped a quota system for beef imports in 2016.

Reuters contributed to this report.

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One of southwestern Connecticuts largest law firms has operated for more than 30 years in downtown Stamford. It plans to remain in the neighborhood for the foreseeable future, but at a different address.

Day Pitney LLP intends to relocate by the end of the first quarter of 2019 from the Canterbury Green complex at 201 Broad St., to the 1 Stamford Plaza office hub at 263 Tresser Blvd. While the firms lawyers have been satisfied with their current setup, they said the move will put them closer to the citys main Metro-North station, in accommodations that are customized to their needs.

The law-firm world has changed dramatically, Managing Partner Thomas Goldberg said in an interview last week at the Canterbury Green offices. Now the trends are toward public space, much more glass (partitioning), and more conference and meeting spaces. And the offices are much more compact. Were moving toward a uniform-sized office for all partners and associates.

In the 16-story building at 1 Stamford Plaza, Day Pitney will take 19,450 square feet, with the new space being built to its specifications. The new offices will cover the entire seventh floor, with a mix of private offices and meeting spaces.

The firm has been based at Canterbury Green since the complexs opening in 1987 and occupies 31,655 square feet there.

While Day Pitney is condensing its office footprint through more efficient usage, it is not reducing its ranks. Driven by business from financial-services clients, the corporate practices headcount has doubled in the past year. In total, about 70 employees, with attorneys representing about half of the contingent, are expected to work at the new offices.

Fairfield County still continues to be a center for hedge funds, private equity firms, asset management firms, middle market companies, family offices and families of wealth, said R. Scott Beach, chairman of the firms corporate and business law department. Those have always been areas of focus for us.

The move to 1 Stamford Plaza will also place the firm a couple of blocks closer to the downtown Metro-North station, with the new offices an approximately 10-minute walk from the transit hub. Many of Day Pitneys Stamford-based employees commute to the city by train.

At 1 Stamford Plaza, theyll be able to take advantage of the building modernization and greater convenience to the train station, said Christian Bangert, executive vice president of Stamford commercial real estate firm Rhys. Both 1 Stamford Plaza and Canterbury Green are very nice buildings, but its probably easier to move than trying to redo your current space without disrupting business.

Day Pitney operates with approximately 300 attorneys, across 11 locations on the East Coast. Its other Connecticut offices are in Greenwich, New Haven, Hartford and West Hartford. Counting predecessor practices, the firm has operated in Connecticut for 100 years.

Fairfield County remains critical to the fabric of this firm, in terms of our strategy and on-the-ground presence here, Goldberg said.

The firm also maintains offices in Manhattan; Boston, Parsippany, N.J.; Boca Raton, Fla.; Delray Beach, Fla.; and Washington, D.C.

In addition to corporate and business law, other areas of focus include litigation and trusts and estates, with clients ranging from individuals to Fortune 100 companies.

Many of our high-net-worth clients, family offices and investment firms tend to have locations and residences in multiple jurisdictions along the east coast, Beach said. Being able to service their needs in those areas and having lawyers in Boston, New York, D.C., and in south Florida actually helps service our Fairfield County-based clients.

pschott@scni.com; 203-964-2236; Twitter: @paulschott
The luxury boutique Michelle Farmer Collaborate is opening a Greenwich shop, selling its own lines of jewelry as well as collections from other designers, including resort apparel.

Michelle Farmer Collaborate has yet to identify its planned opening date and address in Greenwich, with Farmer not immediately available on Tuesday to provide details in response to a Hearst Connecticut Media query.

A Greenwich location would become its second in the Northeast after Southampton, N.Y., where Michelle Farmer Collaborate opened a new store in April totaling less than 1,000 square feet of space. The retailer also operates Florida shops in Boca Raton, Palm Beach and nearby Wellington.

Michelle Farmer created her jewelry brand in 2001 and opened her first shop five years later in East Hampton, N.Y. The company is currently hiring for the Greenwich location, with Farmer telling Hamptons Monthly magazine in May that she is aiming for a 2019 opening in Greenwich.

Prices range upward from $200 for many dresses, swimsuits, tops and other apparel sold by Michelle Farmer Collaborate.

We treat the experience as if we have invited you into our home, Farmer told Hamptons Monthly. Customers are warmly welcomed, champagne is flowing, and everyone is encouraged to relax, enjoy and have fun. Its all about the customer, creating an exceptional experience and making long-term connections. We are not about the hard sell.

The boutique would represent one of several new arrivals in Greenwich, with Fifi & Bella, Fjallraven, Frame, JoJo Maman Bebe, Orvis, Rodd & Gunn and Warby Parker opening or planning new stores on Greenwich Avenue.

The real estate brokerage firm RHYS Commercial listed more than 20 available storefronts on Greenwich Avenue at last report. Of those with asking rents that are disclosed on the Loopnet commercial real estate website, rates range currently from $55 a square foot to $125 for the former Lacoste shop at 98 Greenwich Ave.

Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman
IT consulting and research firm Information Services Group saw its earnings rise in the second quarter as it benefited from growing demand for digital services.

Revenues hit $71 million, up 4 percent from a year ago. The company recorded a $2.4 million profit, compared with a $300,000 loss a year ago.

Our focused investments in the high-growth area of digital services, including automation, and in our recurring-revenue services, are paying off in superior results, CEO and Chairman Michael Connors said in a statement. Our revenue mix continues to grow in value, based, in part, on rising demand for our digital services, which represent more than 40 percent of our total revenues, and the high market valuations for automation services we are seeing of late.

Among recent milestones, ISG opened in May an 18,000-square-foot headquarters at 2187 Atlantic St., in the Harbor Point neighborhood of the citys South End.

In the recently renovated 2187 Atlantic, ISG has taken the entire eighth floor, where about 25 are based.

The new offices include a tech bar for employees, similar to an Apple stores Genius Bar, a training center for employees and clients and a space where the company can showcase digital services such as robotic process automation involving software bots. RPA technology automates functions such as extracting and sending out overdue invoices, allowing workers to focus on other tasks.

We wanted to be in a physical space that was vibrant, emerging and growing, Connors said at an opening ceremony for the new headquarters. As we measured and considered alternatives, we felt the Harbor Point area met all of our criteria.

ISG had formerly occupied about 9,000 square feet in the downtown office block at 281 Tresser Blvd., its home since its founding.

Worldwide, ISG employs about 1,300, including about 500 some its Global Operations Center in Bangalore, India. It also maintains offices in Guildford, England; Paris; and Frankfurt.

The company serves some 700 clients in about 20 countries. The list comprises about 20 Connecticut-headquartered companies including Pitney Bowes and Marriott International subsidiary Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide  both based in Stamford  as well as Norwalk-based Xerox and United Technologies.

pschott@scni.com; 203-964-2236; Twitter: @paulschott
STAMFORD - The nation was in its Gilded Age when the West Main Street bridge was built in 1888.

It was a time of rapid economic growth, and industrial cities, including Stamford, were thriving.

The city was adding population and factories, and the era of the gasoline-powered automobile was dawning. It meant the city had to do something about its crumbling roads and bridges.

Officials began the repairs downtown, where traffic was heaviest, and focused on the bridges. One of the first they rebuilt crossed Mill River at what is now West Main Street, then the Boston Post Road. At the time, the bridge, made of wood, was 200 years old.

It was replaced with a metal-truss design manufactured by the Berlin Iron Bridge Company, then the states only major bridge manufacturer. Berlin Iron built about 100 bridges in Connecticut and another 500 in other states, according to information collected by historian Michael Raber and archived in the Connecticut Historic Preservation Collection.

Now the double-arched bridge of intricate metal work is 130 years old - one of only eight left in Connecticut.

It is in much the same shape as its wooden predecessor when it was torn down long ago. The iron beams are rusted and rotting, and the stone-and-concrete support piers are falling into the river.

It has been deteriorating for decades. In 2002, the city closed it to car traffic. In 2008, the Board of Representatives ruled it fit only for pedestrian traffic.

Soon, however, it may not even be good for that, said Michael Pollard, chief of staff to Mayor David Martin. The bridge likely has only months to live, Pollard recently told the Board of Finance.

Its deteriorating at an accelerating rate, he said.

The West Main Street bridge has been on the Department of Transportations repair list since 2000, City Engineer Lou Casolo told the finance board, but the project has been hampered by the state budget crisis. The DOT has federal money to distribute, but work likely couldnt begin until 2023.

There is a chance, however, that the project can begin next summer, Casolo and Pollard told the board. The Mill River Collaborative, a nonprofit public-private partnership that is remaking Mill River Park, wants to give the city $2 million to repair the 125-footlong bridge.

It is integral to the park, which is at the heart of a planned greenway along the river from Stamford Harbor to Bridge Street, said Arthur Selkowitz, chairman of the collaborative.

We were given a $2 million state grant in May  to be used for work on the greenway going south toward the bridge, Selkowitz said. The idea that it could be four to five more years before the state can get to the bridge is unacceptable to us.

So the collaborative asked Casolo if the city could take it on. Casolo consulted with Wengell, McDonnell & Costello, a contractor that has worked with the city for years to shore up the bridge, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

For $2 million, WMC will extend its life 25 years, Casolo said.

Were here to present the quickest, most economical way to rehabilitate the bridge, Casolo told the finance board. There is a vision for it. It will be beautified to enhance Mill River Park.

This old bridge

The job wont be easy, he said. The contractor must maintain the historic quality and work with engineering used when Grover Cleveland was president.

It will be like restoring an antique car, Casolo said.

No parts are available anymore, he said. Nothing in it is off-the-shelf. Everything is custom, including the bridge deck, which was remade around 1900 to fit trolley tracks.

Casolo and Pollard went before the finance board to ask that the contract be awarded to WMC without putting the project out to bid.

Time is of the essence, Pollard said.

The city knowingly has a compromised structure, he said. This is about money versus risk to citizens.

The bridge provides a key path for West Side residents who walk downtown and to bus stops to catch rides to work and grocery stores, Pollard said.

Feet vs. wheels

Other West Side residents, however, have pushed for the bridge to be reopened to car traffic, saying its critical to the vitality of neighborhood businesses.

City officials have said the issue requires discussion. But money for a more extensive renovation is nowhere in sight.

The Mill River Collaborative wants only foot traffic on the bridge. If it is opened to cars, lanes of traffic will cut the greenway in half, and defeat the goal to create an oasis in the city center, Selkowitz has said. Three other routes to downtown - West Broad Street, Richmond Hill Avenue and Tresser Boulevard - are sufficient, Selkowitz has said.

West Main Street is one of the oldest bridge sites in Stamford, connecting the city to its history. But an April inspection revealed that the concrete in the supports is failing, releasing the stones.

Until the project begins, the city must take measures to keep it safe as a pedestrian crossing, including moving the gangway, Casolo said.

Finance board members approved the contract on the condition that the city attorney signs off on the bid waiver. Work should begin in summer 2019 and be finished by late 2020 or early 2021.

acarella@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2296.
Elsewhere, many cars were stalled in flooded viaducts with water up to their doors, the weather service reported. In Schiller Park, the Irving Park Road and Lawrence Avenue viaducts, under railroad tracks, flooded. And in Rosemont, some roads were closed due to standing water, reports on the weather service site indicated.
Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, the idea of starting my own business at age 33 was already part of my DNA. Confidently stepping into the role of CEO was where the real challenge began.

Related: 10 Pieces of Advice I Wish Every Woman Could Hear

Until 12 years ago, I had spent my career in traditional corporate environments, working my way up the ranks. Before I started my firm ClearEdge Marketing, I was faced with a life-changing choice: Move to Atlanta, far away from friends and family to keep my job, or stay in Chicago and take a different path. The potential for the role I currently held was immense. I was one of the youngest on the executive team, managing marketing for a $1-billion division of a more than $3-billion company. Yet, I knew in my gut it was time to try something new (and stay put where I had created a life and could be close to family), which ultimately led to starting my own company. With a few of my incredible former colleagues by my side, I took the plunge as a new business owner and CEO.

That's when impostor syndrome struck.

I quickly learned that being a female leader comes with a unique set of hurdles. Sure, there were the financial pressures, operational challenges and long hours every entrepreneur faces. But, as a woman, I was dealing with something entirely different: I was having a tough time seeing myself as a CEO. I had held leadership positions before, but none where I was the chief executive, solely responsible for the success or failure of a business and other people's livelihoods.

I faced impostor syndrome, second-guessing myself and wondering if I were truly cut out to be at the top. People would make comments to me early on like, "Oh how cute, you have your own company." It got to me. In talking to other women CEOs, I learned that impostor syndrome is strikingly common among female business owners, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

Related: Embrace the Chaos: Navigating the C-Suite as a Working Mom

You can't be what you can't see.

Part of the issue is representation. Simply put, there are more men than women in leadership roles, and women are much less likely to "see" other women at the top. A 2018 study from The New York Times, its Glass Ceiling Index, reveals some unsettling numbers about the representation of high ranking women. For example, there are more Fortune 500 chief executives named James than there are chief executives who are women.

Pervasive double standards also come into play. Man or woman, you need to be assertive and dominant to be seen as a leader. Women have long been penalized for this behavior, though, making it that much more difficult to wear the CEO hat.

Related: I'm a Millennial Mom and a Successful Entrepreneur. Stop Asking Me How I Manage It All.

Five things you can start doing now to wear the CEO hat more confidently:

1. Consciously make the decision to stop second-guessing. Tell yourself, "You are enough." As women, we need to remind ourselves that the skills we bring to the table got us this far. My dad would always tell me to look in the mirror and make sure I loved the person looking back; to always believe in myself.

2. Ask for help and expand your network. Because the VC and startup ecosystem is typically dominated by men, most women don't have the same wide networks for introductions and counsel as men do. Women leaders have the power to change that by making time daily to network, just as we do for exercising or checking email. Men are more likely to ask things of other people, and women need to get more comfortable doing the same.

3. "Fake it until you become it." In Harvard University professor Amy Cuddy's TED talk on nonverbal communication, she explains how the role of body language affects confidence levels. I regularly take my "power pose," hands on hips, head held high, to physically project I am meant to lead and force my mind to believe it. Next time you're feeling inadequate as CEO, strike a power pose and tell yourself, "I belong here."

Related: The Woman CEO Who Changed My Life -- and the Lessons She Taught Me About Business Success

4. Try not to compare yourself to others. The old adage "keeping up with the Joneses" isn't just a metaphor for consumerism. It applies to us as female CEOs as well. It's easy to get wrapped up in how much more successful other entrepreneurs are, or how much easier their path to the top was than yours. Instead, choose to be inspired by others who've made great strides and focus on your strengths.

5. Recognize the power you have to shape future generations. I believe that one of the most important responsibilities of female CEOs is to help the next generation of women leaders. This in itself helps me to wear the CEO hat more confidently because I know what I'm doing is far more important than just leading a business. When an up-and-coming female leader needs advice, I'm thrilled to offer my insights. When someone needs me to make an introduction, I happily tap into the wide network I've built. Knowing you have the influence to inspire other female leaders is even further proof that you're meant to be a CEO.

Although I don't know or work with them directly, women like Melinda Gates, Sara Blakely, Wendy Kopp and Katrina Lake are changing the image of what a CEO looks like. Through more representation -- young women actually seeing other women rise the ranks -- strong networking and even more female VCs and investors, the momentum will continue to shift toward more women in these roles. As this becomes more ingrained, we'll begin to feel less like impostors and more confidently wear the CEO hat.

Related:

As a Woman Business Owner, You May Find It Hard to Confidently Take on the Role of CEO

After 12 Years, Indra Nooyi to Step Down as PepsiCo CEO

She Took Her Yale MBA Into Cannabis and Now Funds the Industry's Largest Deals



Copyright 2018 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
NORWALK  Until recently, Mediterraneo Restaurant, located within Hotel Zero on Main Avenue, advertised its Happy Hour by the Falls.

Diners could sit on the restaurants balcony and look out onto the Norwalk River where, just below, a waterfall ran over the Flock Process Dam. A few floors up, when the windows were cracked in the hotels wedding suites, guests could hear the sound of rushing water.

Soon, the waterfall and its tranquil sounds may be gone for good from the area.

I dont know what theyre going to do with those cards, Mediterraneo Manager Eduardo Maia said, pointing to a postcard advertising the Happy Hour by the Falls, while outside a crew worked to demolish the more-than-a-century-old Flock Process Dam.

The dismantling of the dam, built on the Norwalk River in the 1850s, began Monday and is expected to continue through the September. The project is meant to restore the river to a more natural ecosystem, prevent future flooding upstream and damage downstream if the dam were to fail.

For the city and the environment, its a positive step. For Hotel Zero, it means no more cocktails and waterfalls.

The waterfall was definitely a cool added factor to the hotel. Guests would ask for the waterfall side, Jordan Scalise, the hotels manager said. Its a little different now. There will be a little bit of pushback, but its something that had to be done.

The project was approved in June and contracted to Peabody, Mass.-based SumCO Eco-Contracting, using roughly a $1 million in funding from the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

The overall duration, were projecting anywhere from four to six weeks. Its variable depending on what the river decides to do and on storm events, said Chad Sumner, a principal at SumCO Eco-Contracting. A lot of time with dam removal, the removal is the easy part. Its the access and restoration that follows that are hard.

To gain access to the dam, SumCOs team built a ramp over a 12 foot retaining wall, around trees and into the river. Once the dam is removed, a natural boulder system will be installed to protect against erosion in areas upstream that will see a heavier stream of water.

On Tuesday, Sumners brother, Travis, a co-principal at SumCO, was at the site overseeing a team of two men operating excavators on the Norwalk Rivers eastern bank. By that time, roughly five feet of the dam had already been removed.

Were taking a foot or two off, letting the water equalize, then taking another foot or two, said Travis Sumner.

According to Lauri Munroe-Hultman, public affairs assistant at the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the dam had to be removed for several reasons.

The dams presence has caused repeated flooding upstream and, should it fail, could cause flooding downstream. Its also prevented fish access to waters they need to reproduce.

From an ecological standpoint, migratory fish, like river herring, alewife and shad need to swim upstream each spring in order to spawn. The dam has been blocking that, Munroe-Hultman said. By removing the dam, sediment will be able to move downstream and reach the coast, which helps replenish marshes and beaches. It makes the coast stronger to future storms and more able to absorb energy and water.

Sumner said there are over 1,200 historic dams in New England, many of which are no longer operational. The Flock Process Dam was originally built to power the Flock Process Mill, which made tufts of wool and cotton to stuff mattresses, said Cathy Smith, secretary of the Norwalk River Watershed Association, which has long supported the structures removal.

These dams dont serve a purpose now. They dont help with flood control at all. Theyre not for anything to do with the water supply. Basically, the uses that they were built for have been abandoned and theyre just sitting there, Smith said.

DEEP and the Fish & Wildlife Service contributed $915,000 and $873,000, respectively, to the project, which is expected to wrap in early September.

Both national agencies, as well as the city, are celebrating its removal. But for Hotel Zero management and its visitors, the result is yet to be seen.

Its too soon to tell, but Id imagine it would affect us a bit, Scalise said.

justin.papp@scni.com; @justinjpapp1; 203-842-2586
Contributed / For Hearst Connecticut Media

NORWALK  The children participating at the city of Norwalks Play and Learn program at several schools recently raised money to help the Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital. Children from the various schools met Monday at Marvin School to turn over their jars of collected coins to Blake Billmeyer, who, with his six sisters, runs the Billmeyer Memorial Foundation.

The foundation has raised over $165,000 for Whittingham since it was founded in 2006 in memory of the siblings parents, Don and Audrey of Rowayton. They died within six months of each other and had been treated at Whittingham.
The prosecutors have previously raised what they say are additional problems with the defense video. The animation shows Van Dyke standing still as he fired the fifth shot when, in fact, the officer was walking toward McDonald, they have said. In addition, the video purports to show the first five shots that struck McDonald when the defenses own experts admits that pathologists cannot identify the exact order in which the bullets hit him.
HARTFORD  A top Republican state senator is asking a court to stop Gov. Dannel P. Malloys $10 million study to explore placing tolls on state highways.

State Sen. Joe Markley, R-Southington, on Tuesday filed an injunction in Hartford Superior Court to block the study ordered by the governor and authorized by the State Bond Commission.

Markley, who is seeking the Republican nomination for lieutenant governor, said that while the bond commission is empowered to borrow funds for a variety of reasons the action must come after the legislature authorizes spending. The General Assembly during the last session failed to approve a bill authorizing a similar study, he noted.

"I dont think the governor has the power to make the expenditure without the legislature authorizing it," Markley said.

"Its not just a reckless waste of money now  it sets a precedent for future executive overreach," said Markley.

"Even by Dan Malloys standards, this is an arrogant abuse of power, coming at the expense of Connecticuts citizens and laws," Markley said.

The study will explore using electronic tolls to fund future transportation projects. The detailed look is designed to examine possible toll rates and where they could be placed, including the Merritt Parkway, I-95, I-81, I-91 and other four-lane state routes.

Plain wrong

The General Assemblys Republican minority is adamantly opposed to tolls while many Democrats say the potential $1 billion in annual revenue may be the only way to improve the states highways and relieve congestion thats choking parts of the state  especially Fairfield County  and preventing business and job growth.

Kelly Donnelly, Malloys spokesperson, said the bond commission acted legally.

"As Attorney General Jepsen made clear during the bond commission meeting, Gov. Malloy is well within his right to allow this study to proceed," Donnelly said.

"Sen. Markley is just plain wrong," Donnelly said. "And quite frankly, when it comes to modernizing an aging infrastructure and building the kind of transportation system Connecticut deserves, he has subscribed to the modern day know-nothing philosophy  proactively choosing to know less, rejecting options before even fully understanding them, and doing nothing."

Republicans have proposed funding highway and bridge improvements through state bonding, which means also reducing other state spending. Malloy and Democrats argue the GOP plan falls far short of garnering the money needed to improve transportation.

Markley said no issue enrages voters more than the idea of highway tolls.

Ive seen Malloy throw his power around before, but never so blatantly, Markley said. The legislature had every opportunity to authorize a study at half the cost last session, but, in the face of public opposition, it decided to take no action.

Markley added Malloys insistence on moving forward on his own, in cahoots with his State Bond Commission appointees, has left people mad as hell.

bcummings@ctpost.com
EDWARDSVILLE  The summer months are a time for a break from school for not just students but teachers, too.

Yet most teachers spend the summer not only preparing for their next school year but also expanding their knowledge by attending professional development programs.

Cara Lane, a teacher at Edwardsville High School, is one of those dedicated teachers who actually spent a good portion of her summer attending professional development workshops and learning how to make learning more exciting for her students.

Lane completed an intense, week-long immersion in American history at the Colonial Williamsburg Teacher Institute from June 18 to June 23. The Teacher Institute, now in its 29th year, provides participants with interactive teaching techniques and skills to become mentor teachers who can assist their peers and other educators to develop active learning classrooms and make history exciting for their students.

During five day-sessions on location in Colonial Williamsburg and the surrounding area, Lane and the participants engaged in an interdisciplinary approach to teaching social studies with American history as the focus.

Teachers had the opportunity to exchange ideas with historians, meet character interpreters and become part of the story in The Revolutionary City. Throughout each day, teachers worked collaboratively with Colonial Williamsburg staff and Master Teachers to examine interactive teaching techniques and develop instructional materials that improve instruction, raise literacy levels, enhance thinking skills, and bring history to life in the classroom.

Participating teachers agreed to conduct in-service training sessions following their attendance at Teacher Institute in order to share their experience with other teachers. Teachers also were required to develop lesson plans to implement in the classroom.

In addition to taking advantage of multiple evening activities in Colonial Williamsburg, I also visited the Battle of Yorktown site in my free time, Lane pointed out.

I was at the Smithsonian American Art Museum from July 9 through July 13, she noted.

The Smithsonian American Art Museum offers annual Summer Institutes, professional development workshops, that present educators with innovative methods for incorporating American art and technology into their humanities curricula. The Institutes are designed for middle and high school core-subject teachers, especially those who teach social studies, history and English/language arts.

Held twice each summer, each five-day Institute gives 30 selected participants the chance to collaborate with museum staff, content experts and technology professionals and to explore models for integrating art across the curriculum.

During this institute, teachers had the chance to spend time with a wide range of artworks in the galleries, see a variety of teaching approaches modeled and get hands-on experience putting them into practice. They discussed how to pair works of art with historical documents and literary sources, explored digital tools that they can use to bring art into the classroom and went behind the scenes to learn from experts in the museum.

Teachers then came away with a physical toolbox of artwork, strategies and activities that they can put to use immediately when they get back to school.

Lanes last professional development experience for the summer was in Chicago. My time last week was spent in Chicago at a three-day workshop sponsored by the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library from July 18 to July 20; however, I also attended a related evening event on Tuesday July 17 at the American Veterans Art Museum as well as an evening author event at the American Writers Museum on July 19, Lane explained.

During her visit to Chicago, Lane also visited the Frank Lloyd Wright home on July 21 as well as the Unitarian Church Lloyd Wright designed, the Pleasant Home, and the birth home of Ernest Hemingway. Fitting- as it was Hemingways birthday (that) Saturday, Lane said.

Lane has taught for 15 years at Edwardsville High School. She holds a bachelors degree in English from Purdue University and a masters degree in education from Washington University in St. Louis. Currently, she is enrolled in a masters program for American Culture Studies at Washington University in St. Louis.

It is my hope that there will be an opportunity to work, at the very least, with my department to share some of the wonderful applications of the work and ideas I gained from these experiences, Lane added.
The defections are the first tangible sign that allegations of inappropriate behavior by Hybels and the churchs handling of those claims have tarnished the worldwide reputation of Willow Creek and threaten to curtail the megachurchs influence on a global scale. Started by Hybels in the mid-1990s, the summit has come to symbolize the iconic pastors provocative leadership style, sharp business acumen and international appeal. It has been fueled as much by his star power as that of celebrities he brought in.
GODFREY  First Daughter and presidential advisor Ivanka Trump will visit Lewis & Clark Community College in Godfrey on Wednesday.

Trump is scheduled to visit Weber Workforce Development Center, where she and U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis R-Taylorville will participate in a roundtable discussion.

About 250 are expected to be in the audience, which is by invite-only.

Im excited to discuss workforce development issues with Ivanka Trump, who is leading this issue for the White House, 13th District employers, and students at Lewis and Clark Community College, Davis posted on his Facebook page Monday afternoon. Congress and the administration continue to work with businesses to improve workforce training opportunities to fill the jobs being created by our growing economy.

Lewis & Clark is pleased to be the selected site to host the Workforce Roundtable organized by Congressman Davis and the White House, College President Dale Chapman said Monday in a statement. Its evidence that L&C is a leader in workforce education, and we are honored to be recognized as such.

It will be the second time Ivanka Trump will be in the riverbend in less than two weeks touting job creation. She accompanied her father, President Donald Trump, on a trip last month to the Granite City Works U.S. Steel plant, where the presidents imposed tarriffs are credited with putting as many as 800 laid-off steelworkers back on the job.

That event gave Davis, along with fellow U.S. Rep. Mike Bost, R-Murphysboro, a place in the presidential spotlight ahead of Novembers election, as both congressmen are seen as vulnerable to losing their seats to Decmocratic challengers Betsy Dirksen Londrigan and Brendan Kelly, respectively.

Wednesdays visit is part of a nationwide tour in which Ivanka Trump is promoting the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, signed by President Trump, on Wednesday, Aug. 1.

The bill provides funding and flexibility for states to offer programs promoting career and technical education, refocuses those programs on student outcomes to ensure they are prepared to enter the workforce, and enhances skills training to match the jobs that are available in a 21st century economy.

I am glad to see this important bill get signed into law so that we can better prepare students and job seekers to fill the 6.6 million open jobs we have today, Davis said in a statement reporting the bill.

This story will be updated.
11 hours ago

The Top 3 Stocks to Buy for November

These 3 Stocks Could Be in for a Big November As we head into the month of November, many investors are trying to digest some of the latest earnings releases from the biggest names in the market and want to determine if an end-of-year rally is on the cards.

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People not having enough space. People not having enough food. People not getting the type of education that they need to get, Davis said. People who arent sure of what the next day is going to bring them. People whove lost hope, whove given up on their government.
A Michigan Department of Transportation employee from Carson City received the highest honor possible in his field on Monday.

Matt Niemi of Carson City received the 2018 Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Directors Award on Monday, according to a press release.

The award is the highest honor an employee can receive for their service. Niemi was honored in the skilled crafts and labor/safety in the supervisor category.

He was put in charge of changing speed limit signs across the state in 2017, collaborating with other MDOT workers to bring the project ahead of schedule and under budget.

Matts can-do attitude and unwavering commitment to quality benefits all users of Michigans transportation system, State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle said in the release.
Samantha Lobdell, a Harrison native, wants to share her love of nature with others.

By doing so through her work and studies, she received a scholarship to help support her efforts.

She, along with two other students in the state, were the recipients of the inaugural John A. Muter Memorial Scholarship, according to a press release sent on Monday. The award is given to college undergraduates who have a clear passion for Michigan and its rich outdoor heritage.

Each recipient got $1,000 to go toward their 2018-2019 school expenses.

Lobdell demonstrated that passion when she started the first public nature program in Wilson State Park in Harrison in 2017. This year, she expanded the outreach efforts of the park by leading families in nature hikes and fishing outings.

I thought it would be a great addition to Wilson State Park to not only give visitors something else fun to do while they are camping but to teach them and help make a lifelong connection to the outdoors, she said.

Her love of the outdoors led her to pursue a degree in outdoor recreation with a focus on natural resources at Central Michigan University. She said that her time at CMU supported the creation of the program.

I have taken several outdoor education courses that have absolutely helped me in creating these fun programs, she said. It has really allowed me to apply what I have learned so far at CMU in developing skills for a potential future career. 

Lobdell is a member of the Parks and Outdoor Recreation Coalition at CMU and received training and educator certifications through Project Learning Tree, Project Wild, Growing Up Wild and Leave No Trace

Her love of the outdoors stems from the idea of stepping away from ones daily life to go enjoy the world that people live in.

What I enjoy most about the outdoors is how much you can learn about yourself and the world around you by simply spending some time outside, she said, It has such a positive effect on people and I really want to share that with others.

Lobdell uses a variety of methods to engage her audience, including the use of props and asking people to experience nature by using their senses. She said that she prefers teaching skills to create that engagement.

My favorite programs involve teaching an outdoor skill, such as canoeing or knot tying, because people love getting hands on and I think it helps make a better connection when visitors get that experience, she said.

So far, Lobdell only has one more year at CMU. She says that she has a plan after she graduates.

I am planning on continuing my career in a State or National park as either a ranger or a park interpreter so I can continue to help people enjoy the outdoors, she said.

The scholarship was made in the honor of Michigan Sportsman John Muter, who died from cancer in 2016. His son, Bret, and a few of John Muters friends from his school years created the scholarship to share his love for the outdoors, according to Bret Muter.

The mission is straightforward: engaging new audiences with Michigans rich outdoor heritage, Bret Muter said. So basically, finding ways to engage people who havent spent a lot of time outside and getting them excited to be doing that.

Her application for the scholarship stood out to Bret Muter because of the work shes done with the Wilson Park program, as well as her focus on natural resources.

With her natural resources interest, she knows the science and she wants to share that with others by integrating that with outdoor recreation, he said.
Cook County Commissioner Timothy Schneider, whose district includes Elk Grove Village, said he is displeased with the forest preserves handling of the elk deaths. Schneider said the discipline meted out against the employees wasnt enough and he doesnt believe the district should bring in more elk later this year until officials can definitively explain why half the preserves herd died last year.
The caucus, which consists of 18 aldermen, released a statement saying the city needs to provide additional funds to provide resources to police, violence interrupters, social works and health care workers following Chicagos most violent weekend of the year. There also needs to be more investment in employment opportunities and recreational programs in the neighborhoods with the most violent crime, the caucus said.
DNP readies for purge of plastic waste

NATIONWIDE: The Department of National Park, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) will launch a campaign to ban plastic bags and styrofoam food boxes in all national parks from Aug 12 to reduce rubbish that pollutes the nature reserves and threatens wildlife.

environmentpollution

By Bangkok Post

Tuesday 7 August 2018, 09:22AM

A total ban on one-use styrofoam boxes and plastic bags goes into effect at every national park in the country, starting Sunday (Aug 12), the birthday of Her Majesty the Queen. The aim is to prevent trash like this  a one-day rubbish collection on the road to Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai. Photo: Bangkok Post / File

It is an ambitious plan. But we aim to reduce single-use plastic and styrofoam material by three million pieces. We want this campaign to become a model for other places to reduce plastic garbage, Jongklai Worapongsathorn, the DNPs deputy chief said yesterday (Aug 6).

Tourists will be banned from bringing in plastic bags, straws and utensils as well as styrofoam food boxes into the parks, Mr Jongklai said.

If this causes inconvenience to tourists, well lend them cloth bags and other materials which are more friendly to the environment, said Mr Jongklai.

However, Mr Jongklai believed about 10 million people, including visitors and vendors, will go along with the campaign.

The department also plans to adopt measures to reuse and recycle garbage, hoping to make itself an example-setter in waste management.

The DNP oversees 154 national parks across the country, many of which are major tourist destinations that generate significant revenue. Up to 16mn tourists visit national parks annually, according to the DNP.

However, visitors do not only bring in cash, but rubbish, much of which are is bags and styrofoam food packages. Most of this waste is left in parks. Plastic bags and styrofoam take at least 500 years to decompose. thereby hurting the environment and animals.

At Khao Yai National Park, the most popular land-based park, officials are finding an increasing amount of wild animals having died of digestive system failure. Park officials have found most had pieces of plastic waste in their stomachs and intestines, Mr Jongklai said. Earlier this year, people were shocked after learning about the death of a male short-finned pilot whale, which had up to 80 plastic bags weighing 8 kilograms in its stomach.

According to the Pollution Control Department, Thailand generates two million tons of plastic waste a year, or 12% of the total garbage. Only 25% of plastic waste is properly disposed of, meaning the other 1.5mn is left polluting the environment.

Ocean Conservancy, a US-based environmental advocacy group, said in its 2015 report that Thailand, along with China, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines, are responsible for more than half of the 8mn tons of plastic dumped into the worlds oceans each year.

Read original story here.
Five face charges for Phoenix, Serenata sinkings, Phuket Police Chief confirms

PHUKET: Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen today confirmed that five people are currently facing criminal charges of negligence for the Phoenix tour boat disaster on July 5 that killed 47 Chinese tourists. The Phoenix capsized and sank off Koh Hei (Coral Island) in a storm squall on July 5 while carrying 89 tourists on board.

tourismmarinedisastersdeathChinesetransport

By Chutharat Plerin

Tuesday 7 August 2018, 06:58PM

Phuket Provincial Police Commander Maj Gen Teeraphol Thipjaroen at the press conference today (Aug 7). Photo: Chutharat Plerin

Gen Teeraphol delivered the news at a press conference held at Phuket Provincial Hall today (Aug 7) in the presence of local and national media as well as reporters from major news services in China such as People's Daily and state news agency Xinhua.

Gen Teeraphol opened his address with explanations of the current state of police action in the incident involving the Serenata tour boat, which capsized near Mai Thon Island also on July 5, but with no fatalities.

Gen Teeraphol named two suspects facing charges for that incident: Metha Limsakul, the 56-year-old boat captain; and Pang Daxian, the 26-year-old Chinese national working as the Assistant Manager of Lazy Cat Travel Co Ltd, which operated tours on the Serenata.

Metha has been charged with recklessness causing physical and mental harm to other people by committing an act by using a vehicle (boat), Gen Teeraphol said.

Pang has been charged with recklessness causing physical and mental harm to other people.

Police investigators have pressed charges against both offenders and handed case files for both cases to the Public Prosecutors Office and the Phuket Provincial Court on Aug 1, Gen Teeraphol said.

Today (Aug 7) at 10am, a prosecutor presented the case against Pang to the Phuket Provincial Court, while the case for Metha is still under consideration by prosecutors, he added.

Gen Teeraphol named three people facing charges for the Phoenix disaster: Somjing Boontham, the 50-year-old boat captain; Onchan Kanhayote, the 56-year-old construction engineer for the Phoenix; and Woralak Rerkchaikarn, the 26-year-old Managing Director of TC Blue Dream Co Ltd, which operated tours on the Phoenix.

All three have been charged with recklessness causing death, physical injury, and serious physical injury to other people, Gen Teeraphol said.

Gen Teeraphol confirmed that the five facing charges in the two cases (the Serenata and the Phoenix) were already in custody, and that all five have been denied bailed.

Police have questioned 50 victims and relatives of dead tourists, 10 of the Phoenix boat crew, seven government officials and 12 outsiders, Gen Teeraphol said.

Gen Teeraphol said that he expected to hand the case file of the investigation to the Public Prosecutors Office by Aug 30.

Wiwat Chitchertwong, presented to the media today as the Chief of Phuket Marine Office*, said that the operation to recover the Phoenix was underway. The stricken tour boat lies on the seabed at a depth of 45 metres about 1.5 nautical miles off Koh Hei, south of Phuket.

Mr Wiwat repeated the entire update given by Marine Department Director-General Jirut Wisanjit in Phuket on Sunday (Aug 5), noting the preparations made, that the salvage operation was expected to be completed within the coming week and that the operator will be billed the estimated B10 million cost of recovering the Phoenix as the operator had failed to recover the boat within the 20 days given after it sank. (See story here.)

If the weather is nice, we expect that the Phoenix will be recovered by August 12 (this coming Sunday), Mr Wiwat said.

Once recovered the Phoenix will be taken to the Rattanachai Shipyard in Rassada, on the east side of Phuket Town, where investigators and experts will have 30 days to inspect it, Mr Wiwat reiterated.

* The official Phuket Marine Office website still lists Surat Srisaiyason as the Phuket Marine Office Chief. (See website here.)
Locals brace for brutal floods

PHETCHABURI: As people in Phetchaburi brace for devastating floods tonight (Aug 7) at around 10pm, after a massive volume of water was released from a major dam to the Phetchaburi River, residents were using sandbags and even cement to wall off the front of their homes and businesses yesterday (Aug 6) so as not to be inundated.

constructionmilitaryenvironmentweather

By Bangkok Post

Tuesday 7 August 2018, 08:31AM

Sandbags are everywhere in front of homes and businesses like this bank, as Phetchaburi residents try to protect their property from the flood expected to hit the two later today (Aug 7). Photo: Wichan Charoenkiatpakul

These do-it-yourself embankments have become in vogue as residents fear the damage that will follow if the Kaeng Krachan dam overflows as predicted. It was close to capacity as of yesterday evening, with much of the water having flowed in from Myanmar.

The Royal Irrigation Department (RID) has warned it could receive significantly more rainfall until Thursday (Aug 9).

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is due to visit the province tomorrow (Aug 8) for an inspection tour to assess the damage wrought by the overflowing dam and check up on water-management plans.

He reportedly cancelled a planned trip to Lopburi to inspect the Pasak Jolasid dam there as this was considered more of a priority.

After Gen Prayut leaves Phetchaburi he is due to visit Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan and Bung Kan  three northeastern provinces affected by overflow from the Mekong River.

Since late last week, the RID and the provincial governor have urged residents in the provinces central and neighbouring districts to prepare for water levels of up to 50 centimetres on the streets and possibly invading their homes.

Provincial authorities have been handing out sandbags since late last week. Many of the residents have been building knee-high embankments, according to reports.

Construction worker Ari Sridokbua was busy laying bricks in front of a townhouse on busy Phong Suriya Rd. She told the Bangkok Post that 14 houses in the municipality had hired her to build similar cement walls to safeguard their properties.

Nonetheless, locals appeared surprisingly calm ahead of the coming floods. Several people interviewed by the Post said they had not moved their belongings to higher ground despite a notice from the authorities to store them at heights of 80 centimetres or more.

I will do it when the water flows in, said one elderly woman who lives on the central thoroughfare but who declined to give her name.

On the streets of the city it was business as usual.

Im not that worried. Well handle whatever Mother Nature throws at us, said Rungsub Thammapongsiri, a 64-year-old fruit stall owner whose shop is situated next to a bridge over the Phetchaburi River.

Ms Rungsub said she has experienced many floods and could sense the district was about to get swamped  again.

With water levels raging last night in the Phetchaburi River, which is directly connected to the dam, fears are mounting that it could unleash a violent stream of water.

Nobody wants it to happen. But its caused by the force of nature so what can you do? she said.

Floods have become an accepted part of life in Phetchaburi after having pounded the province for the past three years. In November, eight districts and 30,000 families were affected, with 12,000 rai of farmland inundated and crops destroyed.

The province is vulnerable to floods because the Phetchaburi River and its tributaries link to the dam and a large reservoir and the area is low-lying.

Rising seawater from the Gulf of Thailand also makes it harder to drain out floodwater out during the six-month rainy season, according to Anond Snidvongs, a climate change expert and director of the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Gistda).

Mr Anond warned the province is likely to get hit by floods this month and again in November as erratic and severe rainfall in neighbouring Myanmar is filling local dams to capacity.

History has taught us that the second round of floods is usually worse than the first, he said.

The government is developing more infrastructure to improve its flood-drainage system as well as diverting canals. However this takes time. It took two years for local authorities to complete a flood control channel, for example.

Not everyone was convinced that the province would suffer a significant impact, however, with Deputy Prime Minister Chatchai Sarikulya dismissing reports that spillover from the Kaeng Krachan dam would trigger mass flooding.

Yet he conceded that water levels could reach 50cm, with some low-lying areas at risk of being submerged.

He also countered criticism that the government has failed in its objective of discharging water properly to pre-empt more flooding.

The administration has followed the proper criteria, he said. Any excessive discharges from the dam could lead to a drought later.

Deputy PM Chatchai was more concerned about the rain coming Thailands way from the southwesterly monsoon. It is expected to hit the western part of the country within a few days.

The army was mobilising personnel and equipment including trucks, flat-bottomed boats, field cooking kits, 8,000 sandbags, a medical team and about 300 troops tasked with building flood barriers along the river.

The navy has brought 20 water-propelling boats and 70 personnel to the province while the air force has deployed 30 personnel as well as trucks, flat-bottomed boats and pumping machines. The RID said there are now 13 water pumps in place and 12 sets of water-siphoning equipment.

Outflow from the dam hit 300 million cu/m per second yesterday, the RID said.

Read orginal story here.
Mor Nim acquitted, mother gets death in shooter murder case

BANGKOK: The Appeal Court has acquitted Dr Nitiwadee Pucharoenyos of masterminding the murder of her national sports shooter husband five years ago and handed down a death sentence on her mother instead.

crimedrugsmurderpoliceviolence

By Bangkok Post

Tuesday 7 August 2018, 05:07PM

Dr Nitiwadee Pucharoenyos (right) leaves the Min Buri Court in Bangkok today (Aug 7). Photo: Apichit Jinakul

The ruling was read at the Min Buri Court in Bangkok on today (Aug 7). The case involves the murder of former national shooting team member Jakkrit Panichpatikum, 41, on Oct 19, 2013 after a row with his wife.

The Appeal Court overturned the first courts decisions and ruled that there was no evidence to prove that Dr Nitiwadee, 41, had hired anyone to kill Mr Jakkrit. Existing evidence pointed to her 75-year-old mother Surang Duangjinda as the mastermind and was consistent with Surangs confession. The evidence showed that Surang had a middleman ask lawyer Santi Thongsem to hire a gunman and a motorcyclist for B200,000 to kill Mr Jakkrit.

The Appeal Court sentenced Surang to death and then commuted the penalty to life imprisonment for her useful testimonies.

The Appeal Court, however, upheld the first courts rulings on the other defendants in the case.

Lawyer Santi, 31, was sentenced to death. Gunman Jirasak Klinkhlai, 36, and motorcyclist Tawatchai Phetchote, 36, were sentenced to life imprisonment. The Appeal Court also ordered the four to payB 2.5 million in compensation to Mr Jakkrits family.

The Appeal Court found Surangs motive was that her only daughter had been beaten frequently by Mr Jakkrit. Since her granddaughters  the couples two children  were also psychologically affected by the violence, she did not want him to reunite with her daughter.

While the ruling was being read, Dr Nitiwadee, whose nickname is Nim, cried but her mother remained calm.

The court later released Surang on bail of B1mn and prohibited her from leaving the country.

On Dec 19, 2016, the Min Buri Provincial Court sentenced her and lawyer Santi to death for masterminding the murder. The court of first instance also handed down life imprisonment sentences to killer Jirasak and to Thawatchai, who drove the motorcycle Jirasak rode on.

Shortly before the murder in October 2013, Dr Nitiwadee, a dermatologist, filed a complaint against her national sportsman husband, who she said beat her under the influence of methamphetamine (ya bah). Jakkrit said that he was clean. He told police he assaulted her because she made him jealous.

Police searched Mr Jakkrits house and arrested him on charges of assault and illegal possession of weapons, as well as domestic violence. In mid-August 2013, Mr Jakkrit finally was allowed bail on his fourth request.

Mr Jakkrit then found out that some of his assets were missing from his personal safe deposit box. He accused Dr Nitiwadee of taking them without his consent while he was in custody.

Dr Nitiwadee denied the allegation, saying that it was their joint property. She claimed she also had a key to the deposit box.

She said she took the assets because Mr Jakkrit threatened her while he was in custody, saying that when freed he would withdraw and spend all their money on another woman.

In September 2013, then-social development and human security minister Paveena Hongsakula tried to reunite the couple during a public event.

On that day, Mr Jakkrit posed with a bouquet of flowers, asking for Dr Nitiwadees forgiveness. Both smiled for the cameras.

One month later Mr Jakkrit was shot three times while driving his black Porsche near Soi Ramkhamhaeng 166 in Bangkok late on Oct 19, 2013. He was on his way to meet Dr Nitiwadee, who lived separately in another house further down the same road.

Dr Nitiwadee said she was talking to Mr Jakkrit on the phone about their plans to renovate their house. Mr Jakkrit, accompanied by a maid, was driving from his residence on Ramhamkaeng 174 to Dr Nitiwadees house in Ramkhamhaeng 162.

After he was shot, his maid called Dr Nitiwadee, who arrived at the scene a few minutes later and tried unsuccessfully to resuscitate him.

In November 2013, police arrested Jirasak, the gunman, who confessed that he was hired by Santi.

Dr Nitiwadees mother Surang then came forward and confessed to hiring the gunman. She said she acted alone because Mr Jakkrit had repeatedly abused her daughter during their six-year marriage.

She claimed her daughter was not involved in the murder.

Read original story here.
Patong Police Chief debunks Panya surrenders myths, confirms cold cases reopened

PHUKET: Patong Police Chief Col Anotai Jindamanee has met the press to debunk rumours that Panya Sia Auan Yingdang, the 39-year-old bar owner in Patong wanted for his role in the slaying of Paweena Namuangrak and Anantachai Jaritram in Chonburi on July 29, had been in hiding in Phuket and had now surrendered to police.



By Chutharat Plerin

Tuesday 7 August 2018, 05:16PM

Patong Police Chief Col Anotai Jindamanee (right) and Preechawut Prab Keesin speak to the press about Panya Sia Auan Yingdang and the state of public safety in Patong. Photo: Chutharat Plerin

Col Anotai denied the rumours at the press conference on Sunday (August 5) at The Bay and Beach Club Patong.

Joining him was Preechawut Prab Keesin, President of the Pisona Group and the Patong Development Foundation.

Col Anotai confirmed that police had already searched Panyas bar, the Pum Pui bar on Bangla Rd, and Panyas house in Patong, but found nothing.

On the night of July 31, officers from the Patong Police, military personnel from the Royal Thai Army Region 5 and local officials raided the Pum Pui bar.

Police initially found this place was operating without licence, Col Anotai said.

Col Anotai explained that Pum Pui bar had been raided twice before and that he had ordered the bar to shut down after the July 31 raid.

Col Anotai also confirmed that police would re-open the case of Panya shooting dead an ice-cream vendor in November last year.

The prosecutor had ordered not to file the charges in court, he said.

As previously reported by The Phuket News, Panya turned himself in to Patong Police at 5am on Nov 18 for shooting dead Amporn Suksawat, 47, in what Panya told police was an ongoing dispute.

According to the police report, Patong Police investigator Maj Teerasak Boonsaeng was notified of the shooting by the Kusoldharm Foundation at 6:10am.

Police arrived at the scene to find Mr Amporns body leaning against the wall of the staircase on the 4th floor of the apartment building, located on Soi Sukcharoen, off Phra Metta Rd. The apartment block was used as a residence for staff from the Pum Pui bar. (See story here.)

High-ranking police commanders are highly interested in Panyas old cases. Files of cases involving Panya since 2013, which include physical assault and selling pirated goods, will be checked. Specifically for cases in 2015 and 2017, which involve the opening of a club, the killing (of Mr Amporn) and this latest case, Col Anotai said.

In the case of the shooting of an ice cream seller on Nov 18, the incident happened before I took this position (as Patong Police Commander), he said.

I would like to initially answer that police inspectors handed the case file to the Public Prosecutors Office on February 1.

Then the prosecutor ordered not to proceed with charges and handed the case back to Patong Police on March 12, Col Anotai explained.

I took this position after that. Now a high-ranking police commander has called for cases to be rechecked. However, for the order not to press charges, we can do nothing about that, Col Anotai said.

Regarding the recent surfacing of a video showing a man on Bangla Rd attacking tourists with something like a hammer, Col Anotai confirmed that the suspect was not Panya, but staff of the Pum Pui bar.

The suspect has been arrested and is now facing charges for the incident, he added.

In concluding his address to the press, Col Anotai raised many other issues, including drugs, law enforcement on night venues, preserving tourists confidence in safety as well as the years-long campaign to have Patong established as a special economic zone.

Mr Preechawut, President of the Pisona Group and leading son of former Patong Mayor Pian Keesin, said the Patong Police had set up a committee to launch a campaign to promote stability, tourism and community in Patong.

As President of the Patong Development Foundation, we have provided our staff to help with general affairs at Patong Police Station. The purpose is to develop the Patong Police to be standard and be an image of Thailands tourism.

This is to welcome general people by focussing on serving people. In addition, the project we have spoken with Col Anotai about is to fix the flood problem (at Patong Police Station) by raising the floor as well as to work on water management for faster draining of rising floodwaters, Mr Preechawut said.

Mr .Preechawut also rated Bangla Rd as the most beautiful and cleanest walking street in Thailand.

Compared with other walking streets in Thailand, Bangla Rd is a model of a tourism city. It may not be the best in the world, but now we are studying to make it be the best model in the world.

From going to walking streets in Pattaya and Chiang Mai, I can say that Bangla Rd is the best road in Thailand in terms of safety, cleanliness and beauty.

In addition, police, military personnel and security forces in Phuket give importance to this issue. They always patrol and serve tourists efficiently compared with officials in other cities, Mr Preechawut said.

Regarding the attack on tourists with something like a hammer, Mr Preechawut said that the incident happened rapidly, but officials responded quickly and had proceeded with charges as well.

Patong has the most CCTV and has the most support through public sector networks, so lets be confident and travel in Patong with peace of mind, Mr Preechawut concluded.
The Emanuel administration has said that because a state law limits the number of referendums on each ballot to three, those in the councils batch would leave no space for Quinns. Quinn insists his binding referendum is unaffected by the three-question rule because its a constitutionally protected right of voters to limit the number of terms their mayors can serve.
Queen Sirikits Birthday, Mothers Day brings long weekend

PHUKET: Many Thais will have a three-day weekend as the nation celebrates Queen Sirikits 86th birthday this Sunday, August 12, which is also celebrated throughout the nation as Mothers Day.

culture

By The Phuket News

Tuesday 7 August 2018, 12:13PM

The auspicious holiday honours the birthday Queen Sirikit, mother of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun.

On Monday (Aug 13), all government offices will close, including Phuket Immigration Office, the Employment Office, the Land Transport Office and all three District Offices in Phuket.

All main bank branches will close, but branches in shopping centres will remain open.

All Royal Thai Police and Tourist Police stations will remain open and some local consulates will remain open to serve their respective citizens.

Although the sale of alcohol on the Queens Birthday is not prohibited by law, police traditionally encourage people to refrain from drinking alcohol on auspicious day as a sign of respect and in honour Queen Sirikit.
Soldiers raid Muay Thai gambling camp in Phuket jungle

PHUKET: A raid by soldiers, police and security personnel from the Royal Thai Navy Third Area Command netted 17 gamblers at camp in the jungle in Srisoonthorn yesterday (Aug 4).

crimepolicemilitary

By Eakkapop Thongtub

Sunday 5 August 2018, 12:11PM

The raid followed a tip-off from people in the area, reporting that gambling was taking place at the site, with a lot of noise every Saturday and Sunday.

Lt Col Surasak Peungyeam and Sub Lt Wattanachai Klongpradit of the 25th Military Circle led the raid on the unregistered premises in Srisoonthorn, Thalang, just before 1pm.

The officers waited until the gambling was underway, with people negotiating their bets on Muay Thai fights shown on television.

When the officers moved in, some of the gamblers attempted to flee, but had their escape curtailed. In total, 17 people were arrested: 13 men and 4 women.

Seized in the raid was one old television set and just B200, as well as a menu board listing dishes and names with a very odd assortment of prices as if they were payout odds.

All 17 suspects were taken to Thalang Police Station to be charged with illegal gambling.
Weather alert for Phuket, Andaman

PHUKET: The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a weather warning for Phuket and the Andaman coast, advising small boats to stay ashore and people in coastal areas to beware strong squalls.

weather

By The Phuket News

Tuesday 7 August 2018, 10:10AM

Strong winds reaching up to 40km/h are forecast, the same strength reported by the TMD on July 5, the day the Phoenix sank. Image: TMD

People should beware of severe conditions. Outbreaks of more rain, as well as isolated heavy downpour, will be expected over the country, said the warning, issued by TMD Director-General Wanchai Sakudomchai.

The strong wind and waves are forecast two to three meters high in the Andaman Sea, about two meters high in the upper Gulf and above three meters high in thundershower areas, the warning noted.

All ships should proceed with caution, and small boats keep ashore, Mr Wanchai urged.

People along the coast of the western South and the East should beware strong winds, he added.

Cloudy with showers and isolated heavy rain, is the weather forecast, with southwesterly winds in Phuket gusting 20-40km/h.

The waether warning comes as a monsoon trough lies across the upper North and the upper Northeast to the active low pressure over the South China Sea while the strong southwest monsoon prevails across the Andaman Sea, Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand, the warning noted.

The warning will remain in effect today through Thursday (Aug 7-9).
Medical marijuana regulations vary in smaller communities

A look at some of the medical marijuana ordinances adopted by cities around the area shows some are only allowing for dispensaries.
The latest twist in the NAFTA saga has Donald Trump, the U.S. president, resorting to the tactic of divide and conquer between Canada and Mexico, Americas partners in the North American Free Trade Agreement.

Chrystia Freeland, the Canadian foreign affairs minister, has been frozen out of recent talks between the U.S. and Mexico, according to Ottawa officials.

Those same Canadian officials stoutly maintain that its legitimate for Washington and Mexico City to iron out specific differences on auto content, which is thought to be the focus of the bilateral talks.

Trouble is, those very same auto-related issues, mostly turning on the amount of North American content per vehicle, are also central to what the U.S. wants from Canada.

A charitable view is that the Trump team thinks it can cut something closer to an America First deal with Mexicos new president than the previous Mexican regime.

But thats no sure thing. Incoming Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, while on balance pro-NAFTA, has been overtly anti-Trump.

Still, its likely Trump hopes to cut a deal with Mexico that he can then impose on Canada on a take-it-or-leave-it basis.

Its ironic that the NAFTA talks have increased NAFTAs popularity with Canadians, by 27 per cent, according to a June polling report by Ipsos Public Affairs.

But opinion would swing strongly in other direction if Ottawa is confronted with an America First NAFTA deal, from which Freeland has vowed to walk away.

She would have the support of the 70 per cent of Canadians who told Ipsos theyre willing to boycott U.S. products, and are already making a point of buying Canadian when possible.

A discreet sign of Canadas strength

The prospects of Canadas retail sector dont seem all that bright, judging from the record-high levels of Canadian household debt, rising interest rates and a recent history of a failed Target Canada and Sears Canada and the struggles of Hudsons Bay Co.

So how to account for the recent U.S. acquisition of Toronto-based Northwest Atlantic Inc., Canadas biggest leasing agent for retail space, on behalf of clients including Nordstrom Inc., Cineplex Inc. and the Winners arm of U.S.-based TJX Cos.?

Behind the headlines, Canadas retail sector is healthier than its counterpart in the U.S., which has too many stores chasing too few shoppers, and is over-malled, a result of injudicious over-building in the 2000s.

As leading economic indicators go, the recent acquisition by Chicago-based Jones Lang LaSalle Inc. (JLL), the biggest U.S. retail space leasing agent and advisory firm, of its largest Canadian peer merits attention as a sign of the underlying strength of the Canadian economy, and of consumer spending more specifically.

JLL is making its biggest expansion bet, in the Canadian market, because the Canadian retail sector is more stable than the U.S. sector, yet with encouraging signs of robust future growth.

Its worth noting that JLL is making its Canadian foray when trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. are at their most acute, with Canadian disposable income at risk.

[But] Canadas economy was only slightly impacted by the U.S. recession [the Great Recession of 2007-2011], JLL official Naveen Jaggi told Bloomberg News last week when the deal was announced. The Canadian economy experienced less than a year of declining fundamentals post-recession, which kept it safe and stable for retailers and investors.

Even the Bank of England cant quash Brexit fears

The Bank of Englands (BoE) recent hike in its benchmark interest rate, up 0.25 per cent to 0.75 per cent, might be based on sound economic fundamentals.

To be sure, the U.K. inflation rate is near the 2 per cent target that requires tighter monetary policy. And that policy, of BoE Governor Mark Carney, former governor of the Bank of Canada, is similar to that of his old employer.

Stephen Poloz, the Bank of Canada governor, has also embarked on a campaign of gradual increases in the benchmark interest rate, and with the same purpose of containing inflation.

But Canadas is a comparatively vibrant economy, where inflation concerns are  or should be  more pronounced than in a U.K. economy befogged by Brexit uncertainty.

Indeed, U.K. business leaders accuse Carney of acting prematurely in his hawkish monetary policy. And the markets agree, having pushed down the value of the pound in the aftermath of the BoEs latest rate hike, the opposite of what should happen after a rate hike.

That increase was accompanied by a stated BoE determination to raise rates still further over the next year.

Carneys tight-money gambit at least hints of a BoE attempt to force a stability for the U.K. economy that simply isnt there.

Certainty about the U.K.s economic prospects is impossible in the absence of a divorce settlement between Britain and the EU. That settlement isnt close to fruition, meaning its harsh or manageable provisions arent yet known.

And so, downward pressure on sterling and the drain on foreign direct investment in the U.K. will continue, no matter how determined Carney is to establish market calm if not buoyancy.

@TheGrtRecession David Olive is a business columnist based in Toronto. Follow him on Twitter:

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CALGARYThe United Conservative Partys application to march in the Calgary Pride parade next month was denied for the second year in a row.

Instead, the Alberta opposition party is planning a Pride event in Calgary where uniformed police officers will be welcome. At this years Pride Parade, officers will march in plainclothes with other community groups, rather than under an official Calgary Police Service entry.

As an inclusive, big tent party, we applied to participate Calgary Pride in good faith, UCP executive director Janice Harrington said in an email.

You will have to reach out to the organizers for their reasons for not allowing us to participate.

Calgary Pride didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. However, on its website, the organization said political groups wishing to march in the parade must submit an explanation of how theyve advocated for, supported, and represented the community in the past year  including bills proposed or passed, voting records and participation in community events.

The UCP have failed to do this so far, said Kristopher Wells, an associate professor at the University of Alberta who studies sexual and gender minority youth, education and culture.

Trust is earned through actions, not words, he said. We know rhetoric is simply hollow and meaningless. One of the best things they could do is pass some clear policy resolutions in support of the LGBTQ community, and that would go a long way.

Instead, Wells said the UCP has created concern about whether or not the LGBTQ community will be supported and protected if the party gains power in next years provincial election.

UCP leader Jason Kenney and other officials have tried to portray the party as one that promotes equality and is open to Albertans of all sexual orientations and genders. Kenney has also said people with extreme or hateful views arent welcome.

However, at the UCPs policy convention in May, delegates voted in favour of a policy that would require schools to notify parents when kids join peer groups that might discuss topics of a religious and sexual nature, such as gay-straight alliances. (Kenney said he would not put the policy in the the UCPs platform.)

The party also voted against Bill 24, which made it illegal for teachers to tell parents if their children have joined a gay-straight alliance.

And last month, UCP nomination hopeful Sandra Kim had to apologize for sharing a Facebook post that read, in part, I do not support homosexuality or homosexual marriage. Kim is still in the running for the constituency of Maskwacis-Wetaskiwin.

Wells said such incidents indicate that the UCP isnt properly vetting candidates. That undermines the trust and confidence that people have in the party, he added.

Wells also said the UCPs decision to hold its own event shows that the party isnt working to listen to the LGBTQ communitys concerns, and inviting uniformed police is basically a slap in the face to Calgary Pride.

Calgary Pride and the Calgary Police Service made the decision about officer participation in the parade together, the result of years of discussion and cooperation.

Thats more of an attitude of, Were going to take our toys and go home. Were not willing to work seriously at building relationships, Wells said.

That doesnt help. Its very petulant and childish, that kind of response.

Wells suggested the UCP could build trust by meeting with LGBTQ community groups and publicly apologizing for past and present anti-LGBTQ actions. He also said the party needs to ensure its policies protect LGBTQ people, and that it expels party members who make homophobic and transphobic statements.

In May, the Edmonton Pride Festival Society also denied the UCPs application to march in its parade.

This years Calgary Pride Parade will happen Sept. 2.

Emma McIntosh is an environment, justice and investigative reporter with StarMetro Calgary. Follow her on Twitter at @EmmaMci

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HALIFAXUniversities in Halifax say theyre assessing the situation in the wake of reports that Saudi Arabian students will be pulled from Canadian schools following a diplomatic spat between the two countries.

The dispute started with a tweet from Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland last week criticizing Saudi Arabias human rights record. Since then, Saudi Arabia has expelled the Canadian ambassador, suspended flights to and from Canada on its state airline, and apparently ordered its students out of Canadian universities.

According to a report from Saudi-owned media outlet Al Arabiya, training, scholarships and fellowships for Saudi students in Canada have been halted.

The announcement has universities in Nova Scotia, where Saudi Arabia is the second-largest source of international students, wondering what will happen come September.

Dalhousie University spokesperson Janet Bryson said in an email on Tuesday that the university values our Saudi students and their contributions to our community.

We are assessing the situation along with Universities Canada and our university colleagues across the country, she said.

Dalhousie had 212 Saudi students as of March 2018, in a wide variety of programs, Bryson said.

Although we dont report on enrolment numbers until December of each school year, we are seeing similar numbers for the upcoming school year, she said.

Mount Saint Vincent University spokesperson Gillian Batten said in an email that Saudi student enrolment at the university has been declining since 2015, when Saudi Arabia changed the list of Canadian schools approved for its sponsorship program.

Forty Saudi students were enrolled at the Mount this summer and 80 in the winter 2018 semester. Batten said its too early to provide an exact number enrolled for the fall semester as not all students have completed their fall registrations.

We are working to assess the situation as quickly as possible towards providing support to these students as best we can, Batten said. We will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds.

Shannon Kerr, spokesperson with the Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education, said the province continues to encourage and welcome all international students to come to Nova Scotia and attend our universities for their post-secondary education.

Kerr said in an email that the province is waiting to hear from universities how many students are currently registered for the coming semester.

Between 2012 and 2016, there were between 1,000 and 1,196 Saudi students attending Nova Scotia institutions. That number dropped to 785 during the 2016-17 school year  the most recent numbers made available.

Kerr said the economic impact of losing the students is unknown at this time, as it will largely depend on the total number of students and the programs that the students are currently registered for.

As Batten said in her email, Saudi Arabia changed the criteria in 2015 used to determine which Canadian universities were eligible to take students from its scholarship program, which covers tuition and living expenses.

Peter Halpin, executive director of the Association of Atlantic Universities, said the change mostly affected smaller institutions like Cape Breton University, but it was responsible for an overall decline in the Saudi student population across Atlantic Canada.

There has been a decline and thats clear, but the fact of the matter is Saudi Arabia remains our second-largest source country for international students, Halpin said in an interview. So while there has been a decline, clearly they remain very important to us.

A February 2018 study from the Council of Atlantic Ministers of Education and Training found that the annual economic impact of international students in the region is $795 million.

So recognizing that Saudi Arabian students are our second-largest cohort, its safe to say that if they were to withdraw from our universities, it would have a fairly significant impact, both on our universities and the regions economy, Halpin said.

In December 2016, Azad Haider, research fellow at Saint Marys University, published a series of blog posts on the Atlantic Institute for Market Studies website detailing the economic impact of Saudi students in Atlantic Canada.

During the 2012-13 school year, when there were 1,167 Saudi students enrolled in Nova Scotia universities, Haider found the total impact for the province was $48.6 million, and $68 million in the region as a whole.

Halpin said its not just about money, though.

Its also about the cultural impact they have on our campus in terms of internationalization of the universities and the community in which the university is located, he said.

While universities here and across the country are trying to make sense of the change, Halpin said its too early to speculate about how theyll react.

Clearly among our universities, theres a high degree of concern, but I think its a little early to start talking about, Well, what will they do to replace those students, because we dont necessarily know that theyve gone yet, or will be going, he said.

While he hopes to learn more in the next few days, Halpin said the implications of the Saudi governments decision are still unclear.

He said Universities Canada, a national association of universities, has been doing a deep dive on this topic for the last 48 hours and talking to the federal government about the implications.

The dispute began after Freeland tweeted about the arrest and detention of two bloggers.

Very alarmed to learn that Samar Badawi, Raif Badawis sister, has been imprisoned in Saudi Arabia, the tweet said. Canada stands together with the Badawi family in this difficult time, and we continue to strongly call for the release of both Raif and Samar Badawi.

The Saudi government took issue with the wording of the tweet, and has been retaliating since.

Trade and investment transactions have stopped during the dispute, but Freeland has stood by her statement.

With files from the Stars Donovan Vincent, The Canadian Press and The Associated Press.

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Well, this is not so much about the policies, its more about the polarization thats happening in this country and in this city, McCarthy said. Rahm Emanuel is a polarizing figure, and we need to bring this city together. And I think that, on a national level, that same issue is happening, and weve got to stop it. Weve got to get behind the president. Weve got to get together. Weve got to have policies that reflect our values. And its not so much that Im against the president and his policies. Its more about the divisiveness thats going on in this country. Its heartbreaking to me.
In the wake of Saudi Arabias expulsion of Canadas ambassador, the kingdom has suspended scholarships for about 16,000 Saudi students studying here and ordered them to attend schools elsewhere.

Its the latest in a war of words between the Saudi government and Canada over human rights, a dispute that began with a tweet Thursday from Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland.

According to a report out of Riyadh from Saudi-owned media outlet Al Arabiya, training, scholarships and fellowships for Saudi students in Canada are being shelved.

Im concerned about those students, but we still need to stand by our position that we support human rights in the world, Bessma Momani, an expert on Middle East issues and a political science professor at the University of Waterloo, said in an interview Monday.

I dont think, understanding Saudi Arabias foreign policy, that theyre going to climb down from this, so were at an impasse.

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In a tweet Monday, Momani said in part that the affected Saudi students are now scrambling with what to do with their lives. Unjust!

Many of those students attending Canadian colleges and universities are here through the King Abdullah scholarship program, which covers their tuition, flights and accommodations, as well as a stipend for living expenses, Momani explained.

A smaller cohort consists of Saudi doctors who are here for specialization training administered by the Royal College of Physicians of Surgeons of Canada. Their costs are also covered by the Saudi Arabian government.

Momani says the doctors, who have in the past returned to their own country to practice, work in 15 Canadian hospitals and serve about 20,000 Canadian patients.

The Saudi students arent just in large Canadian cities, but smaller towns as well, so their departures will have economic repercussions on some communities, Momani predicts.

Momani said most of the students are out of Canada on summer break, likely back with family in Saudi Arabia.

Theyre supposed to be here in three weeks to start school, so its devastating when you think of it that way, she said.

She says the Saudi government is trying to make an example out of Canada by showing the world it doesnt take comments critical of domestic Saudi affairs lightly, especially on human rights matters.

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The Star reached out to several universities for comment Monday.

Barbara Joy, spokesperson for York University, said of the 7,259 international students at that school, 115 are from Saudi Arabia.

While we await further information, our immediate focus will be on supporting these students to understand the potential implications for them, Joy said in an emailed statement.

The news comes after Saudi Arabias decision Sunday ordering Dennis Horak, Canadas ambassador to Saudi Arabia, out of their country in 24 hours. The Saudis are recalling their ambassador here in Canada as well. As part of those moves, new trade and investment transactions between Canada and Saudi Arabia have been frozen.

Saudi Arabia provides about 10 per cent of Canadas imported crude oil and Canadas largest export recently has been armoured tanks and personnel carriers. General Dynamics Land Systems in London Ont., inked a $15-billion deal four years ago with the Saudis to provide that country with light-armoured vehicles.

The dispute was sparked by tweets in which Canadian officials demanded the Saudis immediately release womens rights activists being detained in the kingdom, including Samar Badawi. Her brother, Raif, was arrested in 2012 and sentenced to 10 years in prison and 1,000 lashes for insulting Islam in his blogging.

Ensaf Haidar, his wife, was given Canadian citizenship last month.

Very alarmed to learn that Samar Badawi, Raif Badawis sister, has been imprisoned in Saudi Arabia. Canada stands together with the Badawi family in this difficult time, and we continue to strongly call for the release of both Raif and Samar Badawi, Freeland tweeted Thursday.

Freeland issued a statement Monday in response to the expulsion of the Canadian ambassador. We are deeply concerned that Saudi Arabia has expelled Canadas ambassador in response to Canadian statements in defence of human rights activists detained in the kingdom.

Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including womens rights and freedom of expression around the world. We will never hesitate to promote these values and we believe that this dialogue is critical to international diplomacy.

Freeland said the Canadian embassy in Riyadh, continues its regular operations, including consular services.

She added its premature to comment on the status of Canadas arms deal with Saudi Arabia or the economic consequences of the move, adding shes waiting for more specifics from the country.

With files from The Associated Press, The Canadian Press

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MONTREALAfter years of criticism from the Indigenous community, BMO has removed two stone plaques from the facade of a building in Montreals tourist sector that commemorated the killing of an Iroquois chief in 1644.

The plaques, one in English and the other in French, told the tale of the founder of Montreal, Paul de Chomedey, sieur de Maisonneuve, who killed the chief with his own hands. March 1644.

Calls to take down the stones grew last year as people across the country began debating what to do with statues and other historic markers that were deemed offensive to Indigenous peoples.

On Tuesday, workers had removed the offending plaques and were readying to replace them with new stones whose message excluded the line about Maisonneuves busy hands.

A less provocative stone rested at the feet of one worker and read: Near this square afterwards named la Place dArmes the founders of Ville Marie first encountered the Iroquois whom they defeated in March 1644.

Michael Rice, who said he first complained to the bank about the plaques in 1992, has mixed feelings about BMOs decision and the new message on the stones.

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He never wanted the bank to remove the markers entirely, he said. Rather, he just wanted another plaque to be installed beside the original ones, to give the Iroquois perspective.

Rice said he called the bank about a year ago to ask, once again, if they could change the message on the buildings facade.

Whats so difficult about putting another plaque underneath, saying the Iroquois were trying to defend their territory? he asked. They werent fighting for nothing.

For Rice, leaving out the Iroquois intentions to protect their territory helps to erase their history on the island of Montreal.

The Bank of Montreal building in Place dArmes square has been designated a heritage site. Authorization was needed by the Quebec government before the two stones markers could be touched.

BMO spokesman Francois Morin said in an email: Today, BMO replaced two stone plaques, one in French and one in English, on the building facade in the historic Place dArmes square, across from a statue of Paul de Chomedey de Maisonneuve, founder of Montreal.

Last June, BMO sought approval from the Quebec Ministry of Culture, because the building has heritage designation, to remove the plaques in order to change a false sentence referring to the death of the Iroquois chief.

The Culture Department didnt immediately return a request for comment.

Debates are ongoing across the country on how to commemorate history in a way that includes Indigenous perspectives.

Earlier this year, Halifaxs city council decided to remove a statue paying tribute to Col. Edward Cornwallis, who founded Halifax in 1749 and soon after issued a bounty on Mikmaq scalps in response to an attack on colonists.

The Mikmaq have long called for removal of tributes to Cornwallis, some calling his actions a form of genocide.

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OTTAWAKinder Morgan Canada documents say expanding the Trans Mountain pipeline will cost the federal government another $1.9 billion beyond the companys original construction estimate and will take another full year to complete.

The figure is included in documents Kinder Morgan Canada filed Tuesday with the United States Security and Exchange Commission related to the companys plan to sell the pipeline to the Canadian government for $4.5 billion.

Kinder Morgan has long said it would cost $7.4 billion to build a second pipeline parallel to the first in order to triple its capacity, but the financial documents now say the company expects a $9.3-billion price tag.

The documents also suggest construction wont be done until December 2021  a full year beyond the previous projection of December 2020.

Finance Minister Bill Morneau has been reluctant to discuss how much more it will cost to build the pipeline while the deal is still being finalized, and the closing date for that deal is now being pushed back well into the fall.

The documents also say shareholders will meet Aug. 30 in Calgary to vote on the proposed sale.

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OTTAWA  Saudi Arabia has cancelled flights to Toronto by its national airline and halted purchases of Canadian wheat and barley as it ramps up retaliation for Ottawas criticism of its human rights and detention of activists.

Saudi Arabias angry  and to some, surprising reaction  has continued with news that Saudi Airlines would end its four-flights-a-week service between Toronto and Riyadh in the days ahead.

And the kingdom has declared it will no longer buy Canadian wheat and barley, confirmed Cam Dahl, president of Cereals Canada.

In the last year, Canada sent 135,000 tonnes of barley to Saudi Arabia, a significant part of the 1.9 million tonnes of barley exports each year, and 70,000 tonnes of wheat, a smaller portion of the 16.5 million tonnes of wheat that went overseas.

We are seeing protectionism grow. I see this as part of that trend, using trade for other than economic means, Dahl said. It worries me a great deal.

Yet Ottawa is showing little signs of backing down in its spat with the Middle East powerhouse.

Read more:

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Weve been pretty clear in our dealings around the world and specifically in Saudi Arabia that we know that its important that we bring Canadian values around the world. We are going to continue to enunciate what we believe are the appropriate ways of dealing with citizens, Finance Minister Bill Morneau said Tuesday.

This is all the fallout after Canada took to social media last week to protest the Saudi detention of rights activists, including Samar Badawi. Her brother Raif was arrested in 2012 and sentenced to 10 years in prison and 1,000 lashes for insulting Islam in his blogging. Ensaf Haidar, his wife, was given Canadian citizenship last month.

Canada is gravely concerned about additional arrests of civil society and womens rights activists in #SaudiArabia, including Samar Badawi. We urge the Saudi authorities to immediately release them and all other peaceful #human rights activists, the foreign affairs department tweeted.

In her own tweet, Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland declared that she was very alarmed by the news that Samar Badawi had been imprisoned. We continue to strongly call for the release of both Raif and Samar Badawi, Freeland said.

Those tweets caused deep offence among Saudi Arabias leadership and the broader Arab world has rallied to the kingdoms defence, causing a diplomatic row that threatens to cost Canada politically and economically.

In a statement posted on Twitter on Sunday, the kingdoms foreign affairs ministry denounced Canadas comments as blatant interference in its domestic affairs and a major, unacceptable affront to its laws and judicial process.

The kingdom appears to have been especially offended by Canadas call for the immediate release of the activists, which it characterized as very unfortunate, reprehensible, and unacceptable in relations between States.

It said that Canadas statement demanded a sharp response to prevent any party from attempting to meddle with Saudi sovereignty.

It expelled Canadas ambassador in Riyadh, recalled its own envoy from Ottawa and announced that all new trade and investments with Canada would be frozen.

The recriminations have continued. Saudi Arabia has suspended scholarships for an estimated 15,000 Saudi students studying here and ordered them to attend schools elsewhere.

Universities were trying to clarify the reports and the potential impact on their institutions, including the bottom line since foreign students usually pay dramatically higher tuition than Canadians.

While we await further information, our immediate focus will be on supporting our students, said York University spokesperson Janice Wall, where 115 students from Saudi Arabia go to school.

On Tuesday, Washington avoided taking sides in a dispute it said involved its close partners but did voice support for individual liberties, including dissent and due process, and said it has asked Saudi Arabia for more information about the detention of activists.

But the reaction was less favourable among Arab states as countries such as United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and the Palestinian Authority, which sided with Saudi Arabia in the diplomatic tiff, condemned what they branded as unacceptable interference by Canada that undermined Riyadhs sovereignty.

Experts in human rights and foreign affairs say that Saudi Arabias fierce reaction to Canadas comments is meant to make other nations think twice before going public with criticism of the kingdoms human rights record.

Clearly this is meant to be a message to Canada (and) the rest of the world, dont mess with us on that front, said Alex Neve, Secretary General, Amnesty International Canadas English branch.

The ferocity of the response is obviously intended to dissuade other governments from tweeting in the same vein as Canada has, Neve said.

Neve said Canadas criticism  while not unprecedented  did stand out given that many countries are often reluctant to publicly fault Saudi Arabia and reticent to focus on specific cases. Clearly governments dont want to risk in any way offending the Saudis  oil wealth, trade and investment potential, geopolitical considerations, Neve said.

Neve said that his organization welcomed Canadas public expression of concern, adding, its something we need to see governments do with much greater regularity and conviction.

Thomas Juneau, assistant professor of international affairs at the University of Ottawa, said Saudi Arabias response is consistent with the kingdoms increasingly aggressive actions on the world stage under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the 32-year-old heir to the Saudi throne.

These include waging war in neighbouring Yemen, blockading Qatar over alleged ties to terrorism, and kidnapping the Lebanese prime minister in November 2017, Juneau said.

Theres a pattern of impulsiveness, of aggressiveness  really, of recklessness  in its foreign policy. And in that sense, what theyve been doing to Canada for the last 48 hours really fits that pattern, he said.

At the same time, Juneau said Canadas relationship with Saudi Arabia has soured since the Liberals came to power.

In granting Canada a $15-billion contract to supply the kingdom with light-armoured vehicles in 2014  a deal that has been denounced by human rights advocates  Saudi Arabia expected a closer relationship with Canada on a range of other levels, including educational exchanges, increased trade and high level visits from political leaders, Juneau said. But when criticism over the LAV deal started to mount, the Liberal government shied away from that, Juneau said.

Freelands call for the respect of human rights was the catalyst for an open dispute, but the stage was already set, Juneau said.

The feeling of betrayal was the cause behind it, but the broader message that theyre sending to western countries is, if you criticize us, this could happen to you, he said.

With files by Daniel Dale and Donovan Vincent

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OTTAWAThe Trudeau Liberals are offering Indigenous communities $30 million in prize money as part of a contest that could end up rewriting the rules about how the federal government funds badly needed housing on-reserve.

Key to the contest is to draw in private sector builders to help finance the construction and repairing of homes in First Nations, Inuit and Metis communities.

The Liberals have made overtures to the private sector to help cover the cost for on-reserve infrastructure to close the estimated $30 billion needed to repair and upgrade homes, roads, and water systems.

Now theyre looking for new ideas to test.

Indigenous Services Minister Jane Philpott said government funding alone cant surmount the scale of the housing problem, and suggested federal spending rules can get in the way.

She said the contest will help suss out needed policy changes for projects and ideas that arent easily permitted under existing funding rules, such as mixed-used projects that combine residential and commercial space.

Going along with business as usual is not going to close that (housing) gap quickly, she said in an interview ahead of Tuesdays scheduled announcement.

This is an opportunity to say, perhaps we need to change some of the approach  how can we, in fact, be smarter about the money that were spending.

More details about the program will be announced this fall at the open of applications for the prize money. The winnings will be awarded over three rounds starting in spring 2019.

The contest is the latest in a string of challenges the Liberals have launched since coming to office in November 2015, aiming to reshape how funding recipients think about projects and how the government spends money.

What the government is looking for out of the contest is to fund projects that can be replicated in other communities, bring back traditional Indigenous building styles and techniques, and create an economic boost for communities that could include sourcing materials locally or providing job training to young people.

This is an opportunity to say if you have an idea of how you can actually address the social problem and at the same time provide housing space then these are the kinds of things we would like to support, Philpott said.

Once you can demonstrate proof of concept, often that will be the trigger that it will take for others to be able to scale up those examples.

A report in May from the Indigenous caucus of the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association said that some 118,500 Indigenous households, or 18.3 per cent, lived in core housing need, meaning they lived in homes that stretched them financially, required hefty repairs, or were too small for their families.

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. reported in late June that some 1.6 million homes, or 13.6 per cent of all urban households, were in core housing need in 2016, a figure relatively unchanged from 2015.

Spending from the Liberals first budget in 2016 has, as of the end of March, paid for the construction and renovation of 8,786 homes, the government said, with work underway on 5,178 units.

The Liberals 2018 budget set aside a combined $900 million over the next decade for housing in Metis and Inuit communities, and a further $600 million over three years for work in First Nations communities.
Plans are forming to fight Premier Doug Fords bill to slash the size of Toronto city council as some opposition builds from conservative quarters.

Mayor John Tory met with outside legal experts Friday, who suggested an injunction  to put a hold on the midelection change from 47 seats to 25 seats pending a possible court challenge  is possible.

The constitutional and municipal experts were not giving legal advice  Toronto has a city solicitor who advises council and will report back to a special Aug. 20 meeting where council will decide any official legal action. Rather, the experts offered thoughts on possible avenues to fight the Better Local Government Act that will be before the Legislature this week, said acting mayoral spokesperson Siri Agrell.

Its really about the process. Should the premier have consulted people on municipal changes that were applied across the province in time for the 2022 election, Agrell said, rather than ram it through during a campaign that started May 1, shocking council candidates and even some PC MPPs.

The experts opinion is there is a possibility of getting an injunction, but whether it would be successful (in a court challenge) after that depends on a number of factors, including the ability for a democratically sound election to be conducted within the time frame after the introduction of new legislation, Agrell said.

Were in uncharted territory.

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While the Ontario government has constitutionally conferred power over municipalities, one expert wondered about limits on that power. Could the province, say, install one Etobicoke councillor as leader of Canadas biggest city?

Tory, who is running for re-election and initially seemed to doubt the citys ability to fight the cut, will this week send Ford and MPPs notice of city councils vote to oppose the move, and to ask the province to hold a binding referendum on council size before the Toronto election takes place.

Councillors at the Aug. 20 meeting will get advice from city solicitor Wendy Walberg.

City clerk Ulli Watkiss will advise on the citys ability to jump logistical hurdles to holding a legal Oct. 22 election with new wards following the same boundaries as provincial ridings, and nominations for council candidates closing in mid-September.

Ford, who served one term on council when his scandal-mired brother Rob was mayor, told the Legislature the quick cut is necessary to make dysfunctional Toronto council more effective and to save what he estimates will be $25 million over the four-year council term.

The premier said those opposing his desire to cut council just want to protect a bunch of downtown politicians.

But an opinion poll conducted July 30 to Aug. 1 by Abacus Data found that, by a wide margin, Torontonians thought the province should either consider postponing the council cut until after the election, or scrap it entirely.

The survey of 907 Torontonians found 47 per cent wanted the province to consider postponing the change until after the election given the timing and lack of consultation, while 22 per cent said scrap it. Just shy of one-third of Torontonians wanted Ford to proceed with the cuts now.

The online survey was commissioned by the left-leaning Broadbent Institute and Progress Toronto, formed to help progressive candidates win seats in the civic election. The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is 3.3 percentage points 19 times out of 20, Abacus Data said.

One in three respondents who said they voted PC in the June provincial election want the council cut postponed or cancelled.

Asked if they approve of the way Ford and his government handled the issue, 47 per cent of survey respondents disapproved, 40 per cent approved and 12 per cent didnt care either way. Other findings include most people thinking Torontonians and city officials werent consulted enough, and that council itself should decide the number of council seats.

It was council that voted to move from 44 wards to 47 for this election, after a four-year process aimed at equalizing ward populations. New wards downtown were expected to shift some power to downtown progressives now routinely outvoted by suburban conservatives.

Michal Hay, head of Progress Toronto, called the cut fundamentally undemocratic and said it could break Torontianss trust in the electoral process.

This week MPPs will be voting on whether or not to bypass any consultation on Fords reckless interference in Torontos elections, she said in an email. We want conservative MPPs to know that Torontonians, including a significant number of Ford voters, dont approve of how Ford is doing this. They want consultation, they think it should be up to Toronto city council and they dont want this done in the middle of the election.

Fords plan is also under fire from the right-leaning Fraser Institute, which said in a blog post the council cut will not save taxpayers money in the long run and will reduce political scrutiny of the city budget, leaving important decisions to city staff over whom voters have no control.

Josef Filipowicz, a senior policy analyst at the B.C.-based think tank, reviewed research of then-premier Mike Harriss decision to amalgamate Toronto in 1998, ostensibly to save money.

Government spending (per household) on important services such as fire protection, garbage collection, and parks and recreation has increased, not decreased, he wrote.

As a former Toronto city councillor, Premier Ford wants to improve fiscal efficiency in his hometown, and thats understandable. However, reducing the number of seats in council  while perhaps a strong symbol  is not an effective way to achieve this goal. In fact, it may grow the size of government, consume more taxpayer money and reduce democratic accountability to boot.

But to Jim Karygiannis, one of 11 Toronto councillors on record supporting Fords council cut, all the pushback is a waste of time.

Any attempt at an injunction will fail, much like legal attempts to stop amalgamation, he said, and councillors need to accept the fact the city is a creature of the province.

This is what were dealing with and we should move on, he told the Star on Monday. You dont fight city hall. I guess you dont fight Queens Park either.

David Rider is the Star's City Hall bureau chief and a reporter covering Toronto politics. Follow him on Twitter: @dmrider

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Canada has been trying to deport Franklin Godwin since 2000 when the former refugee was declared a danger to the public for his lengthy criminal convictions of drug offences and fraud.

Twice, in 2003 and 2005, Canada Border Services Agency escorted the 54-year-old Toronto man to Liberia, where he said he ran away from due to political persecution by a dictatorial regime  a claim his successful asylum bid in 1994 was based on. Twice, he was refused entry because officials didnt believe hes from there.

Now, years after Canadian officials unchallenged belief that the man was a Liberian, the border agency claims Godwin is actually from Nigeria, partially based on DNA searches against ancestry websites  a controversial tool recently adopted to determine the identity of longer-term detainees.

The methodology of the DNA search is very suspect, said Subodh Bharati, who represents Godwin through the Osgoode Hall legal clinic. I have family in India but I was born in Canada. Does it mean that Im lying? Does it mean that Im not Canadian now? This smells of discrimination.

According to immigration lawyers, border officials have collected DNA samples from at least three immigration detainees in the past year in their attempts to identify their ethnicity, track down relatives and establish nationality in order to remove these individuals from Canada.

As a person, Im concerned about people using these (ancestry) sites to track down missing family members and family history not knowing their DNA might be used for law enforcement purposes, noted Jared Will, who represents the other two detainees.

In Godwins case, border officials got him to sign consent for a DNA swab against databases on Familytree.com and Ancestry.com, and identified and contacted two of the matches, both of Nigerian descent, believed to be his third and fifth cousins, in the United Kingdom.

CBSA uses DNA testing in order to determine identity of longer term detainees when other avenues of investigation have been exhausted, said the agencys spokesperson Jayden Robertson, who refused to release how many detainees have undergone the DNA searches to date.

DNA testing assists the CBSA in determining identity by providing indicators of nationality thereby enabling us to focus further lines of investigation on particular countries.

DNA is just one of the many tools that assist officials in their detective work, Robertson added.

In Godwins detention review last month, government counsel Jacqulyn Taylor said officials have also conducted linguistic analysis and knowledge quizzes about Liberia on the detainee.

To date all the answers he has given indicate that he is not a person that grew up in Liberia, she told adjudicator Mary Heyes.

Taylor also pointed out that Godwin in the past had made attempts to travel to Nigeria and his previous criminal activity involved a Nigerian drug smuggling ring.

Why is an individual who is of Liberian descent leaving Canada after becoming a refugee and going to Nigeria? asked Taylor. Its interesting.

Citing Ancestrys own website, Bharati said the DNA shared by a second cousin is 3 per cent and a fourth cousin is .195 per cent.

All that shows us (is) one of the great, great, great grandparents lived in Nigeria, Bharati said. What is this honestly? This means nothing that can be put any weight on respectfully. This one cousin or two cousins from Nigeria means nothing.

Based on his clients experience, Will said he understands that border services agencys investigators simply acted as if they were the individuals, the detainees, when they logged on and searched on the DNA websites.

The border agency would not comment if it has any protocol or guideline in the use of DNA samples in investigations but said it requires consent from clients before submitting their information to DNA websites.

However, Will said detainees often have no choice but give consent. The consent cannot be truly voluntary. These individuals are being detained and they risk prolonged detention because if they dont give consent, they are alleged to be non-cooperating.

Familytree.com did not respond to the Stars repeated requests for comment. Ancestry.com offered a statement that said, Protecting our customers privacy is Ancestrys highest priority, and that starts with the basic belief that customers should always maintain ownership and control over their own data. Ancestry has not worked with border agencies for this or for any other purpose.

Godwin was placed under immigration detention in March 2017 after serving a most recent criminal sentence. The detainee, said his lawyer, has been accused of being unco-operative with officials about his nationality.

He went to Liberia; Liberia is refusing him. So how is Mr. Godwin supposed to effect his own removal to a country thats refusing him? asked Bharati at his clients last detention review in July. Mr. Godwin has gone to numerous interviews. Theres nothing more you can ask of him.

Godwin was eventually released from detention two weeks ago after he was accepted by the Toronto Bail Program for supervision. He must report regularly to officials while awaiting his deportation.

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The long weekend has ended  and for some Torontonians, thats a relief.

On Monday evening, 600 North Etobicoke residents found themselves without power after fallen tree branches took down wires that supplied electricity in the area. A Toronto Hydro spokesperson declined to say whether the fallen branches were caused by a severe thunderstorm. By evening, temperatures were back in the high twenties and power was restored.

The rest of the week is looking to be much of the same  a mix of sun and rain.

Environment Canada is predicting 40 per cent chance of showers on Tuesday with a risk of thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures are expected to reach a high of 28 C, but will actually feel closer to 35 C. You can expect some relief in the evening when temperatures dip down to 19 C.

Wednesday is expected to be more of the same, with a mix of showers and hot weather during the day. The heat is expected to alleviate at night when temperatures reach a low of 17 C.

Thursday will offer people a chance to go out during the day, as rain isnt expected until nighttime. Youll still want to bring an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun, however, as temperatures will reach a high of 29 C.

Showers will continue into Friday morning, with a 30 per cent chance of rain. Like the rest of the week, the city is expected to remain warm as temperatures will range between 27 C during the day and 18 C at night.
Mayoral candidate Jennifer Keesmaat is trumping John Torys housing plan by promising to build 100,000 new truly affordable units in 10 years.

The plan, announced Tuesday morning, more than doubles Mayor Torys promise to create 40,000 units in 12 years.

By taking these steps, we will provide safe, stable, high-quality homes to over 200,000 Torontonians, she said. This election is about the kind of city we want  for ourselves, but also for future generations.

The core of the ambitious plan will be unlocking more city land to give private developers incentive to build, Keesmaat said. She didnt say how the plan would be financed, but she promised those details were forthcoming.

This was the first policy announcement the citys former chief planner has made since signing up to challenge Tory at the last minute on July 27.

Torys signature housing program created this term, called Open Door, set out to accomplish, for the first time, a decade-long, council-backed goal of creating 1,000 new affordable rental units each year. Despite Tory claiming that it has, that goal has not been met. According to city data, just over 1,200 affordable rental units will have been completed from the beginning of 2015 to the end of this year. Another 2,600 have been approved but not built. Few of the completed units are a result of the Open Door program.

In June, Tory vowed to increase the target to 40,000 units over 12 years, which would be about 3,300 per year on average. He has also not outlined how that could be accomplished given Open Doors current output.

On Tuesday, Keesmaat noted Toronto has surpassed Vancouver as the most expensive rental city in Canada and criticized Tory for not using all the tools available to him to build new affordable rental units, including sitting on, she said, one of North Americas largest real estate portfolios.

What do you think?

On Tuesday, Keesmaat noted Toronto has surpassed Vancouver as the most expensive rental city in Canada and criticized Tory for not using all the tools available to him to build new affordable rental units, including sitting on, she said, one of North Americas largest real estate portfolios.

Her plan includes making affordable housing the core of the mandate of CreateTO, the newly-created agency to manage the citys land holdings and transactions.

A campaign spokesperson, providing additional details about the plan, said there is a significant amount of land that could be developed if an appropriately broad view is taken; for example, using the space over one-storey subway stations or converting active city-owned parking lots.

The city is currently examining the redevelopment of some of the sites it owns without pursuing affordable housing, which should not be the case, said spokesperson Chris Ball in an email. There are sites like this across the city that we could leverage for affordable housing while creating stronger communities rather than simply using land to generate dividends.

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The land would be transferred to developers at no cost or low cost, Ball said, or using 99-year leases to secure affordable housing.

Keesmaat also proposes the funds from the Liberal governments $40-billion, 10-year national housing strategy should be used to build new, purpose-built rental units and ensure rents stay affordable for longer than 25 to 30 years, which is a typical affordability period under the Open Door program.

Im determined to do everything we can to build more affordable housing in Toronto and we need to do it much faster, Tory said in a news release responding to Keesmaats announcement. Im proud of the progress we have made this term approving and building affordable housing, and were just getting started.

He also jabbed Keesmaat, who was often said by Tory and his allies to be too outspoken as a bureaucrat, for not bringing the plan forward when she was in that role.

The city currently defines affordable housing as anything at or below average market rent. Those figures come from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, which surveys all currently occupied rental units. In 2018, the average market rent for a one-bedroom was $1,202 a month and $1,426 for a two-bedroom unit.

Keesmaat said her plan defines affordable housing as 80 per cent of average market rent, which in 2018 would be $962 for a one-bedroom unit and $1,141 for a two-bedroom unit.

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A social media platform can be compelled to divulge account information belonging to a woman who anonymously chatted online about plans for last summers deadly white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Va., a federal magistrate judge ruled Monday.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph Speros 28-page order says the womans First Amendment rights to anonymous speech dont outweigh the importance of disclosing her identity to plaintiffs lawyers suing over the rallys violence. Leaked Discord messages indicate the woman, identified only as Jane Doe in court papers, likely was involved in planning the event last August, the magistrate said.

San Francisco-based Discord, an app that allows for text and voice chats, is popular with video game players. But the service also has been a communication tool for far-right extremists, including organizers of the Charlottesville rally.

The womans lawyers had asked the San Francisco-based magistrate to quash a subpoena for Discord to turn over her account information and content of her communications to the lawyers, who filed a federal suit in Virginia against organizers of the Unite the Right rally last August.

At the rally last summer, hundreds of people travelled to Charlottesville to participate in the rally and protest the citys plans to remove a statue of Robert E. Lee from a park that was named after the Confederate general.

Sunday is the anniversary of the deadly rally in Charlottesville, where white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the streets before a car plowed into a crowd, killing 32-year-old counterprotester Heather Heyer.

Read more:

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One year after racist rally, Charlottesville is facing an identity crisis

Charlottesville police chief resigns after report slams forces handling of rally

Spero said federal law prohibits Discord from releasing the content of a message without the sender or receivers consent. But he ruled the plaintiffs interest in her account information outweighs any impact on her First Amendment rights.

The magistrate noted that the womans personally identifying information can remain confidential, or highly confidential and therefore kept from plaintiffs lawyers, under a protective order issued in the Virginia lawsuit.

The woman had asked the court to quash a subpoena for Discord to turn over subscriber information and communications belonging to at least 32 accounts. But the magistrate said the woman does not have legal standing to challenge the subpoena on behalf of other users.

Lawyers for the user argued the subpoena is a fishing expedition designed to expose the identities and destroy the lives of people with unpopular political views.

Doe has a constitutional right to associate with people who think as she does and to engage in controversial political speech anonymously, and the Plaintiffs have no right to acquire her correspondence or information, her lawyers wrote.

But plaintiffs lawyers say the Discord chat logs are evidence at the heart of the case against the Charlottesville rallys organizers, who posted instructions for participants, including what weapons to bring.

Jane Doe is a self-described political dissident who used the handle kristall.night on Discord. Her alias appears to refer to the Nazis deadly, anti-Jewish Kristallnacht pogroms in Germany before the Second World War.

Leaked excerpts of the Charlottesville chat logs show Jane Doe was involved in planning that weekends events and shared the rally organizers goals of violence and intimidation and their motivation of racial animus, plaintiffs lawyers claim.

She declared, Without complicit whites, Jews wouldnt be a problem, and I hate miscegenation so much more after actually talking to mixed race people about their identity,  they wrote.

Does lawyers said her statements were nothing more than generic advice to others interested in attending the rally.

Plaintiffs cannot violate Jane Does constitutional rights simply because she holds personal viewpoints of which they disapprove, they wrote.

Plaintiffs lawyers served Discord with the subpoena in January. Discord had deleted data sought by the subpoena but created backup tapes that likely included that data, according to the lawyers.

Does lawyers said a 1958 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court held that a subpoena couldnt be used to identify members of the NAACP because it would have a chilling effect on the First Amendment. They argue that the anonymous Discord users may not have all the formalities of the NAACP but are no less an organization of like-minded individuals sharing their political beliefs and advocating for social change, no matter how noxious Plaintiffs may find this advocacy to be.

Doe is represented by Marc Randazza, a Las Vegas-based lawyer who specializes in First Amendment cases. Randazzas clients also include neo-Nazi website publisher Andrew Anglin and Infowars radio host and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones.
LOS ANGELESA man accused of smashing U.S. President Donald Trumps star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame has been charged with one felony count of vandalism.

Twenty-four-year-old Austin Clay of Glendale was charged Monday in Los Angeles. Its unclear whether he has a lawyer.

Prosecutors say Clay took a pickax to Trumps star on Hollywood Boulevard on July 25. The star recognized Trump for his work on the TV reality show The Apprentice. It has been repaired.

Clay could face up to three years in jail if convicted.

The star was previously vandalized by James Otis with a sledgehammer and pickax days before the November 2016 election.

Otis pleaded no contest to the felony. He was sentenced to community labour and ordered to pay $4,400 (U.S.) for the damage.

Read more: Trumps Hollywood Walk of Fame star vandalized, again

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Firefighters struggled against rugged terrain, high winds and an August heat wave Tuesday to slow the spread of the biggest wildfire ever recorded in California, an inferno that exploded to be nearly the size of Los Angeles in just 11 days.

The 450-square-mile (1,165-square-kilometre) blaze, centred near the community of Upper Lake, about 100 miles (160 kilometres) north of San Francisco, spread fast because of what officials said was a perfect combination of weather, topography and abundant vegetation turned into highly flammable fuel by years of drought.

Firefighting efforts were also initially hampered by stretched resources, said the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, also known as Cal Fire.

When the fire started July 27, thousands of firefighters were hundreds of miles north battling a massive blaze that spread into the city of Redding, destroying more than a thousand homes, in addition to a dozen other major blazes.

Read more:

Pair of Northern California blazes now largest in state history

Utility worker killed near northern California wildfire

Two northern California fires force thousands from their homes

A few days after the Upper Lake fire started, Cal Fire battalion chief John Messina told a community meeting that with so many fires already raging in California, resources are already committed, so officials were forced to prioritize public safety and private property.

After those two things are addressed, then well go after the pieces of fire that are in remote areas, Messina said. Typically, wed go at all at once. There is just not the resources for that.

The flames were raging in mostly remote areas, and no deaths or serious injuries were reported. But at least 75 homes have been lost, and thousands of people have been forced to flee. The blaze, dubbed the Mendocino Complex, was reported 20 per cent contained on Tuesday.

Its rapid growth at the same time firefighters were battling more than a dozen other major blazes around the state fanned fears that 2018 could become the worst wildfire season in California history.

For whatever reason, fires are burning much more intensely, much more quickly than they were before, said Mark A. Hartwig, president of the California Fire Chiefs Association.

About 3,900 firefighters, including a crew of 40 volunteers from New Zealand, were battling the blaze, contending with temperatures in the high 90s F (high 30s C) and winds gusting to 25 miles per hour (40 kilometres per hour).

The heavily forested area of myriad canyons where the fire is spreading has few roads or natural barriers that can serve as firebreaks or offer safe havens for firefighters to battle the flames head on, Cal Fire battalion chief Jonathan Cox said.

So firefighters instead fell back to natural barriers such as streams or used bulldozers to cut fire lines, but the flames were moving so fast in spots that they blew past, forcing firefighters to retreat, Cox said.

Theres no way youre going to stop that fire, said Kyle Coleman, 28, who returned to his childhood home last week to help his father try  in vain, it turned out  to protect it. A big wall of flames came over the mountain. ... I pretty much got my dad out of there.

In all, 14,000 firefighters were battling blazes across California, which is seeing earlier, longer and more destructive wildfire seasons because of drought, warmer weather attributed to climate change, and the building of homes deeper into the forests.

Cal Fire is really an urban firefighter service in the woods, said Arizona State University professor Stephen Pyne, a wildfire management expert.

The Mendocino Complex is actually two blazes burning so close together that authorities are attacking them as one, a common practice at Cal Fire. The fires started within an hour of each other about 15 miles (25 kilometres) apart. As of Tuesday, they were separated by just a few miles. Officials have not determined the cause of either one.

In becoming the biggest fire in California history, the Mendocino Complex fire broke a record set just eight months ago. A blaze in Southern California in December killed two people, burned 440 square miles (1,140 square kilometres) and destroyed more than a thousand buildings.

Crews also gained ground this week against another Northern California wildfire near the city of Redding that was blamed for at least six deaths.

Meanwhile, a blaze burning near Yosemite National Park has been raging for nearly a month but is still just one-third as large as the biggest fire, though dense smoke has closed much of the park to visitors for the past two weeks.

Californias firefighting costs have more than tripled from $242 million (U.S.) in the 2013 fiscal year to $773 million in the 2018 fiscal year that ended June 30, according to Cal Fire.

Were in uncharted territory, Gov. Jerry Brown warned last week. Since civilization emerged 10,000 years ago, we havent had this kind of heat condition, and its going to continue getting worse. Thats the way it is.
National security adviser John Bolton said Tuesday that North Korea has not made progress toward denuclearization in a dismal acknowledgment that comes nearly two months after U.S. President Donald Trump held a historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore.

The United States has lived up to the Singapore declaration. Its just North Korea that has not taken the steps we feel are necessary to denuclearize, Bolton said in an interview on Fox News Channel on Tuesday morning.

He added the United States will continue to apply pressure until Pyongyang produces results.

The idea that were going to relax the sanctions just on North Koreas say-so, I think, is something that just isnt under consideration, Bolton said. Were going to continue to apply maximum pressure to North Korea until they denuclearize, just as we are to Iran.

Unlike North Korea, Iran does not possess nuclear weapons, according to U.S. intelligence agencies and international monitors. Under a 2015 nuclear accord, Iran agreed to curtail elements of its nuclear energy program that raised proliferation concerns and pledged never to seek, develop or acquire any nuclear weapons. Trump withdrew the United States from that agreement in May.

The Trump administration has consistently sought to reassure critics that Kim will make good on his pledges to denuclearize. Last month, Trump tweeted he had confidence that Kim Jong Un will honor the contract we signed &, even more importantly, our handshake in Singapore.

Read more:

North Korean diplomat says U.S. isnt living up to nuclear deal

Trump replies to Kim Jong Uns new letter on denuclearization

U.S. military begins identification work on Korean War remains from North Korea

Yet the most tangible result of the June 12 summit so far has been last weeks handover by North Korea of the remains of more than 50 service members killed in the Korean War. The question of denuclearization remains a separate one, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has said, and U.S. and North Korean diplomats traded jabs on the issue at last weekends annual conference of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

At that conference, which also took place in Singapore, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo handed to North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho a letter from Trump to Kim.

Bolton revealed Tuesday the letter contained a proposal from Trump for Pompeo to make another visit to North Korea to meet with Kim.

Secretary of State Pompeo is prepared to go back to North Korea to meet with Kim Jong Un. Weve proposed that in our most recent letter from the president to Kim Jong Un, Bolton said.

The presidents prepared to meet at any point, he added. But what we really need is not more rhetoric. What we need is performance from North Korea on denuclearization.

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ALEXANDRIA, VA.In a blistering back-and forth, Paul Manaforts lawyer suggested Tuesday that the star witness in the former Trump campaign chairmans financial fraud trial has told so many lies he cant remember all of them.

Defence lawyer Kevin Downing began his cross-examination of longtime Manafort deputy Rick Gates by pressing him on his own lies to special counsel Robert Muellers investigators, an extramarital affair and hundreds of thousands of dollars he admitted to embezzling from his former boss.

Downing also ventured into territory both sides had agreed to avoid: discussion of Donald Trumps presidential campaign.

Under questioning, Gates said he may have submitted personal expenses for reimbursement by Trumps inaugural committee, which he helped operate. Downing also asked whether Muellers investigators had interviewed Gates about his role in the campaign, prompting an objection from prosecutors and a sidebar conference with U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III.

The judge then brought the trial to a standstill late Tuesday afternoon, calling a brief recess. Afterward, Downing dropped the Trump-related line of questioning, moving on to other topics without explanation.

In general, references to Trump at the trial have been few and far between. Both sides agreed ahead of time to limit discussion of the campaign so as not to prejudice the jury, though they had agreed to allow testimony about the overlap of a bank loan with Manaforts role in the campaign.

Read more:

Paul Manaforts right-hand man Rick Gates admits to embezzlement in fraud trial

Trump acknowledges, defends sons 2016 meeting with Kremlin-aligned lawyer

Manafort approved every penny of personal expenses, bookkeeper testifies

The tough questioning of Gates came after he spent hours telling jurors how he disguised millions of dollars in foreign income as loans in order to lower Manaforts tax bill. Gates recounted how he and Manafort used more than a dozen offshore shell companies and bank accounts in Cyprus to funnel the money, all while concealing the accounts and the income from the IRS.

Under questioning from Downing, Gates acknowledged he had to plead guilty to false statements after lying during a February interview with federal investigators. At one point, as Gates had trouble recalling the details of his confession, Downing asked him, Have they confronted you with so many lies that you cant even remember them?

Manaforts defence attorneys have sought to paint Gates as an embezzler, a liar and the instigator of any criminal conduct. They have tried several times to impugn his credibility before the jury.

Ahead of that barrage, Gates implicated himself in a vast amount of criminal conduct on the stand, an apparent strategic decision by prosecutors as they hoped to take some of the steam out of the defences questioning.

Gates testified that he and Manafort knew they were committing crimes for years.

In Cyprus, they were documented as loans. In reality, it was basically money moving between accounts, Gates said.

Prosecutors summoned Gates to give jurors the first-hand account of a co-conspirator they say helped Manafort carry out an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and bank fraud scheme. Gates also provided the first witness testimony that overlaps with Trumps presidential campaign.

Manafort and Gates were the first two people indicted in Muellers investigation into potential ties between Russia and the Trump campaign. But Gates pleaded guilty months later and agreed to co-operate in Muellers investigation of Manafort, the only American charged by the special counsel to opt for trial instead of a guilty plea.

The case against Manafort has little to do with either mans work for the Trump campaign and theres been no discussion during the trial about whether the Trump campaign co-ordinated with Russia  the central question Muellers team has tried to answer. But Trump has shown interest in the proceedings, tweeting support for Manafort and suggesting he has been treated worse than gangster Al Capone.

On Tuesday, Gates did connect one part of the bank fraud charges against Manafort to his role in the Trump campaign.

The 46-year-old former political consultant told jurors how Manafort asked for tickets to Trumps inauguration so he could give them to a banker involved in approving a loan at the centre of his financial fraud trial. Gates also said Manafort floated banker Stephen Calks name for consideration as secretary of the army, a post he ultimately did not get.

The email exchange about Calk occurred after Manafort left the Trump campaign but while Gates was active on the Trump inauguration committee. Prosecutors had previously said that Manaforts interactions with Calk were the only part of the trial expected to overlap with his Trump campaign role.

The faceoff between longtime business associates and former senior members of the Trump campaign drew scores of people who waited in line for hours outside the courthouse and then jammed into both the courtroom and an overflow room that contained a video feed of the proceedings.

In testimony Tuesday, Gates laid responsibility squarely at Manaforts feet for a series of crimes, saying the two had committed crimes together by stashing money in foreign bank accounts and falsifying bank loan documents.

Gates described to jurors how he repeatedly submitted fake financial documents at Manaforts behest as his former boss became concerned he was paying too much in taxes and, later, that his funds were drying up.

In one email, Manafort wrote WTF and not happy about tax payments he was going to have to make, Gates said.

In other testimony, Gates recounted how he converted a PDF of a profit-and-loss statement to a Microsoft Word document so he could doctor it to inflate the business income. Gates also fabricated a forgiveness letter for what he said was already a fake loan between Manaforts consulting company and a Cypriot entity he controlled.

Prosecutor Greg Andres pointed out he had created a loan forgiveness letter between Mr. Manafort and Mr. Manafort.

Yes, Gates agreed.

During the testimony, Manafort did not stare Gates down as he did Monday. When the trial broke for lunch, Manafort looked back at his wife, sitting in the front row, smiled and winked at her, followed by a quick shake of his head, seeming to indicate he was unfazed by the mornings testimony.

In addition, Gates has admitted to other criminal conduct.

Gates, who is awaiting sentencing, told jurors that he embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort by filing false expense reports. He also said he committed credit card and mortgage fraud, falsified a letter for a colleague involved in an investment deal and made false statements in a deposition at Manaforts direction.

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LISBONFirefighters and anxious residents braced Tuesday for a fifth straight night of battling a major wildfire that is racing across tinder-dry forested hills in southern Portugal.

The blaze is sending high plumes of smoke across the Algarve regions famous beaches and bringing criticism of authorities for failing to halt the flames.

A strong seasonal wind from the north known as a nortada was driving the fire south toward Silves, a town of about 6,000 people, after it narrowly missed the smaller town of Monchique. Several hundred people were evacuated and 29 were hurt, one seriously, officials said.

Almost 1,200 firefighters, supported by 16 aircraft and 358 vehicles, were deployed around Monchique, a town of 2,000 people about 250 kilometres south of Lisbon, where the blaze came within 500 metres of the local fire station.

An unknown number of homes  believed to be in the dozens, according to local reports  in the forested hills have burned down.

With so many resources deployed, many residents asked why the fire was still burning, especially after 95 per cent of it was under control on Monday.

Firefighters also publicly questioned the wisdom of the strategy to counter the flames, with some claiming poor organization was thwarting the operation. Monchique was identified as a high-risk area months ago.

Firefighting is co-ordinated by the Civil Protection Agency, a government body overseen by the Ministry of Internal Administration, which oversees national defence.

The National Association of Professional Firemen and the Professional Firemens Trade Union issued a joint statement saying that the governments recent reorganization of firefighting capabilities needs to be reassessed and rethought. The organizations asked for a very urgent meeting with the Eduardo Cabrita, the internal administration minister.

Cabrita told reporters that authorities were switching co-ordination of the Monchique fire from the local Civil Protection Agency to the departments national operational command in Lisbon.

He declined to criticize the firefighting operation, saying the effort had been notable.

Portugal beefed up its wildfire response over the winter after 109 people died last year in forest blazes amid a severe drought.

Vitor Vaz Pinto, the Civil Protection Agencys district commander, said the weather forecast around Monchique was unfavourable, with a gusting wind from the north, known as a nortada.

Temperatures were forecast to reach 35 C  normal for August in southern Portugal.

The Iberian Peninsula endured some record heat last weekend, with temperatures exceeding 45 C, which parched large areas.

Spanish emergency services said a wildfire Tuesday near Valencia, on the Mediterranean coast, was almost under control after two dozen aircraft were brought in. The blaze forced the evacuation of about 2,500 people.

The high temperatures moved northward to France. The hottest weather was expected in central and northeastern France, with temperatures that could reach 40 C.

Dutch authorities evacuated four campsites as a brush fire swept through parched countryside in the eastern Netherlands, where temperatures were in the mid-30s C. The regional security service said that firefighters from three provinces were battling the blaze on Tuesday in Wateren, 135 kilometres northeast of Amsterdam.

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Is Canada a democracy? The question may seem silly, if not insulting, to Canadians, who take it for granted that their celebrated form of government, inherited from Britain, places Canada among the world leaders in promoting the rule of the people.

Yet, to the few Americans who pay attention, there are several significant curiosities in your countrys legal principles and policies that make us a little uneasy. It may be instructive to Canadians to point out how your laws and government appear to an outsider.

The majority rule parliamentary system certainly ensures that those fortunate enough to reside in Canada have far greater rights than the billions who have the ill luck to live under the jackboot of one of the worlds myriad strutting tyrants.

Certain Canadian nonconformists, however, who would like to exercise some disapproved forms of freedom of religion and speech, or want to avoid being tried twice for the same offence, may have a problem.

Noteworthy is the Ontario policy that is uncomfortably reminiscent of an 18th century European tax on Jews, where people of every faith are compelled to pay with their public funds for religious schools, but only Catholic religious schools.

Other items that Americans would not recognize as consistent with democracy include the fact that a criminal acquittal can be appealed by the Crown and reversed, that a court can order a newspaper not to print the proceedings of an ongoing trial (and the newspapers comply!), and that Quebec enforces its infamous rule requiring that, with some modification for trademarks, private businesses must feature French more prominently than English on their signs and packaging, and at least equally on their websites. Or else.

The philosophies of the Canadian political parties appear to American eyes to range from just left of centre to just left of Stalin, but they have in common that none of them are presently interested in rectifying any of the aforementioned monarchical tendencies.

It appears that most of you have so far given little consideration to that when casting ballots, to the detriment of those who wish to conduct their lives unfettered by their neighbours preferences.

The well-intentioned Michael Levitt, a Liberal MP, when asked about the dissimilar treatment of religious schools following a talk about how he had proudly presented a speech in Ottawa denouncing human rights violations in Iran, looked dreadfully unhappy, and repeatedly told me, I hear you, Its not in my portfolio, Its a provincial matter, and I understand the problem.

Robin Martin, a losing Progressive Conservative candidate for the Ontario parliament in 2014, advised, with a degree of candour that was much to her credit, that the party bosses told her not to discuss the issue, as the PCs had been defeated in a previous election after advocating for parity.

Asking a Quebecois about whether its appropriate for the government to tell you what language you can use tends to elicit a response that French, which is spoken by hundreds of millions of people worldwide, is vulnerable.

As to permitting an entirely free press or eliminating double jeopardy, it never seems to occur to anyone in Canada that theres a problem.

You are our much beloved cousins, and most Americans who have crossed the border will happily acknowledge that Canadians are, in the main, unusually pleasant and well-mannered people. It is neither the intention here to demean you nor feel sorry for you.

Just as there is quite a bit the U.S. could learn from Canada  relative civility in public debate being a prime example  there are a number of our better qualities that Canada would do well to emulate.

The United States has for nearly a quarter millennium stood in the vanguard of the endless struggle for individual freedom.

How much more effective we could be together in advancing that noble cause if you, our Canadian friends, would set a second example for mankind by implementing a few vital reforms, so that our two great North American nations might in tandem keep the fragile flame of liberty, perpetually on the cusp of extinction in most of the world, alight for all the generations to come.

Clifford Falk is a lawyer in Niagara Falls, N.Y. He has family in Toronto.

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Constitutional and legal case can be made against Bill 5, August 3

The late Sen. Eugene Forsey was, and still is, considered one of Canadas foremost constitutional experts, distinguished particularly for his views on the reserve powers of the Crown. At this time of political crisis in Ontario, it would be worth asking what remedies Forsey might recommend for dealing with arbitrary and undemocratic exercises of power by the governing majority party and its leader.

In his book Freedom and Order, Forsey advised that If a Prime Minister tries to turn parliamentary responsible government into unparliamentary irresponsible government, then only the Crown can stop him. . . . The Crown is the embodiment of the interests of the whole people, the indispensable centre of the whole parliamentary democratic order, the guardian of the Constitution  .

The powers of the Crown are embodied, at the provincial level, in the lieutenant-governor, who must sign any piece of legislation in order for it to become law. Normally, this is a routine act, but Sections 55 and 90 of the Constitution Act of 1867 specify that according to [his/her] discretion the lieutenant-governor may assent thereto or withhold the Queens Assent, or that [he/she] reserves the Bill. . . Thus, the lieutenant-governor need not sign Bill 5, the Ford governments bill that arbitrarily, without study or consultation, would reduce Toronto council from 47 to 25 seats.

In refusing to sign, the representative of the Crown would not be interfering with the policy-making powers of the elected legislature, but rather protecting the democratic process  the conventions of responsible government. Bill 5 could be returned to the legislature for the normal processes of study and public hearings.

Joell Ann Vanderwagen, Oshawa

Thank you to Craig Scott for doing the heavy lifting on sorting the constitutional issues around Doug Fords heavy-handed flouting of convention and the democratic process.

Perhaps Trudeau could make it up to us for failing to keep his promise on election reform by beginning some legislative plans to unshackle large cities like Toronto from the arbitrary power of the provinces and give them their own power to govern and tax according to their needs.
Waterfront deal shortchanges city, ex-board member says in letter, Aug. 3

The news that Waterfront Toronto board member Julie Di Lorenzo has resigned a mere month after CEO Will Fleissig suddenly stepped down is alarming. She cites concerns about handing control of part of a Canadian city and ownership of data pertaining to Canadians to a U.S. firm (Sidewalk Labs) as her reasons for leaving.

The Waterfront board chair and Sidewalk Labs CEO respond with standard assurances. Sidewalk says data wont be used commercially, but no one knows better how to commercially exploit data than its parent company, Alphabet.

Im inclined to want stronger assurances in response to the slightest skepticism, let alone a resignation, in response to perceived problems.

Rob Salmond, Vancouver

How does one spell red flags? Experienced developer Julie Di Lorenzo tells us to be concerned about the deal by Googles parent company to open shop in our city. When a developer expresses cause for concern about a bad deal with a mammoth and highly controversial tech company, we should pay attention.

Jeff Green, Toronto

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VANCOUVERA group representing construction workers and businesses asked a judge Tuesday for a B.C. Supreme Court injunction to force the provincial government to fix the proportional representation referendum process.

The referendum, which asks British Columbians to vote on what type of electoral system they would like in their province, is scheduled to happen this fall via mail-in ballot.

While the provincial government has been trying to rag the puck on our case  using delay tactics to keep their flawed process going, we believe it is in the public interest to ensure this referendum is conducted in a fair, transparent, and lawful manner, Chris Gardner, president of the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA), said in a news release.

ICBA legal counsel Peter Gall argued before Justice Miriam Gropper that the questions and process are illegal because they dont present the public with a clear choice between the current electoral system and a defined system of proportional representation.

But this was the case in two previous provincial referenda held on the matter, in 2005 and 2009, the release noted. Both failed because they didnt reach the 60 per cent threshold set by the then-BC Liberal government.

The ICBA originally filed its petition to the B.C. Supreme Court on June 28, challenging the legality of the referendum on the basis that it is inconsistent with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Gardner explained that the current referendum regulations  including the Nov. 30 deadline and the $2,000 restriction on campaign spending  make the process unfair. In addition, the way the government has asked and structured the questions  and the restrictions it placed on public participation  are unlawful.

These undermine the purpose of a binding referendum, the release stated.

Rules around financing restrict freedom of debate on the issue, added Gardner, who said British Columbians need more time to consider the question.

The injunction request calls on the courts to suspend the referendum until a judge rules on the groups petition.

Gardner previously confirmed to StarMetro that the ICBAs position is that the current electoral system, first-past-the-post, is the best one.

The organization is arguing the referendum is, in fact, unnecessary, he said.

It involves such a fundamental change to our democratic system, Gardner said.

The three proportional representation models presented in the upcoming referendum are: Dual Member Proportional (DMP), Mixed Member Proportional (MMP), and Rural-Urban Proportional (RUP).

The BC NDP promised in its 2017 election campaign to hold a province-wide vote on replacing the provinces first-past-the-post election system.

Attorney General David Eby said in an email statement that the referendum is opportunity for British Columbians to have their voice heard.

By filing an injunction to suspend the upcoming referendum on electoral reform, the ICBA is working to prevent people from voting on how we send people to Victoria, he explained. The technical questions raised are before the courts and thats where our government will address them.

The province already held two referenda in the 2000s on adopting an alternative system aimed at trying to make results reflect the percentage of support a party got, while still keeping local MLAs.

The NDPs referendum, which is scheduled to take place Oct. 22 to Nov. 30, will require a simple majority of votes.

Read more:

Business group files injunction in effort to suspend B.C. referendum on electoral reform

BC NDP to unveil referendum question, Liberals decry stacked deck in a rigged game

Radio veteran Bill Good sparks questions as voice of new anti-electoral reform group

With files from Wanyee Li

Read more about:
Rudy Giuliani, an attorney for President Trump, speaks during a campaign event on Aug. 1, 2018, in Portsmouth, N.H. (Charles Krupa / AP)
Headlines about North and South Korea have been in the news recently, but what do Americans really know about the history of these countries? There may be some gaps in our collective knowledge, but a trio of novels steps into that void, beautifully illuminating Korea's past in ways that inform our present.

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"The Court Dancer," by Kyung-Sook Shin

Inspired by the true story of a late-19th-century court dancer, Shin's novel explores themes of exoticism, assimilation and identity. After capturing the heart of a French diplomat, orphan-turned-court dancer Yi Jin ends up in Belle Epoque Paris at the behest of the emperor, who tasks her with building a diplomatic bridge between Korea and France. Far from the gilded cage of the Joseon court, Yi Jin finds a new kind of restriction when she realizes she still "could not be free of the attention of strangers, whether they were from kindness or curiosity." Even to her French husband, she's a mere token, a prize.

The novel delves into major historical events, including 1884's Gapsin Coup and the Imo rebellion in 1882, while the power struggle between China and Japan for influence over Korea looms in the background. By placing Korean history beside a Western narrative, Shin highlights the disparity between Europe and the more isolated Asian nation. At its core, the book "The Court Dancer" examines what countries lose in identity in exchange for technological advancement.

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"The Kinship of Secrets," by Eugenia Kim

A family is torn apart then reunited years later in Kim's second novel, which begins in 1948 as Najin and Calvin Cho travel to the United States in search of new opportunities with their daughter Miran, while leaving their other daughter, Inja, behind. What's supposed to be a short separation turns into a long-term split after the Korean War breaks out.

Despite growing up in vastly different worlds - Inja in war-torn Seoul, where a banana is considered a luxury, and Miran with her strict upbringing punctuated by "The Ed Sullivan Show" and American junk food - the sisters both become outcasts in their own ways, with Miran enduring racial slurs and Inja getting teased for her "mother who wasn't a mother."

Kim infuses a coming-of-age story about being an outsider with the realities of the war, which forced many family separations, some of which still persist today.

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"If You Leave Me," by Crystal Hana Kim

Kim's stunning debut spans from 1951 to 1968, beginning as 16-year-old Haemi and her family seek refuge from war in the southern port city of Busan. There she ends up in a love triangle, forced to choose between the boy she loves and his more upwardly mobile cousin. Ultimately she caves to societal expectations that dictate she put her family before her emotional needs.

Snippets of Korea's complicated history following the war are artfully folded into the story, revisiting the student protest that forced Korea's first president, Rhee Syngman, to resign and the rise of Park Chung-Hee, the military strongman whose reign over Korea ended with his assassination. Within all the political chaos is the greater question of how to honor the past while accepting the Western influences that will usher in the future.

The novel is interested in something most others aren't: The aftermath. It focuses both on what comes after war - as a new country struggles to develop its identity - and what follows Haemi's fateful decision, as the ramifications of her choice ripple out to affect everyone around her.
EDWARDSVILLE  Issues between the Madison County Information Technology Department and the Sheriffs Department and other law enforcement agencies occupied much of the IT Committee meeting Monday, with Chairman Jamie Goggin finally telling both sides to put on their big boy pants and meet to resolve their differences.

Debate centered on two separate issues: an incident earlier this month where the Glen Carbon Police Departments 911 call center lost communications, and more long-standing contention between law enforcement and the IT Department.

The discussion started when Capt. Eric Decker of the Sheriffs Department told the committee that they were exploring creating a system separate from the existing IT system. He noted that their concerns with the countys IT Department are longstanding.

There are certain levels of support were not getting, he said.

He also noted later in the meeting that one of their concerns was that both the Illinois State Police and the FBI audited those programs, and the Madison County Sheriff is held solely responsible, so they need more direct control over the system.

After initial prompting from Committee Member Lisa Ciampoli, R-Collinsville, Decker said the two biggest issues were communications and getting after-hours service.

That led to discussion about the Aug. 1 incident in Glen Carbon. At about 8 p.m., an issue with AT&T led to a shutdown of Glen Carbons 911 and communications. Glen Carbon also handles Troy and Maryville. Calls were routed to the Sheriffs Department, and service was restored after about 3.5 hours.

However, Coleen Shaller, support services supervisor for the Glen Carbon Police Department, said she called the IT Department and nobody returned her call for approximately an hour. She said the response needs to be 5-10 minutes.

Ciampoli questioned that, saying it was unreasonable; Shaller responded that in law enforcement that was very reasonable.

Decker said when law enforcement personnel are on call, they are expected to respond immediately.

When youre assigned on call, your cell goes with you when you go to the restroom, he said. We have a high expectation of quick response.

There were also some discrepancies between IT and law enforcement timelines of the incident, but IT Director Rob Dorman said they need to create an escalation tree of IT people to call in an emergency, with Shaller adding that that system would need to be made available to the 28 different departments that are part of the system.

Goggin said they need to have a plan forward, which led to discussion about the need for a junior public safety person in the IT Department.

There had been complaints from Madison County 911 that money for that position had been added to that departments 2018 budget at the last minute, and it was only recently discovered. A similar line item was also in ITs budget.

Interim 911 Director Dana Burris complained that nobody had notified her of the change. Dorman said his office had not requested that change, but also noted that the listing for a junior public safety officer in the IT Department was apparently a mistake, because they wanted a junior systems administrator.

Both Goggin and Ciampoli said they would not support separate IT departments or programs in the county. Goggin noted that if that happened, within a few years people would question how they allowed that to happen.

How did grown people not manage to put on their big boy pants and sit down in a room and work it out? he said.

There was more back-and-fourth over several issues. Board Member Ann Gorman, D-Edwardsville, said there needs to be more communication between IT and other departments.

Ciampoli noted that instead of emails, they may need to talk over the telephone or actually meet to discuss issues.

Im not in favor of breaking up IT, she said. It seems to be more of a communication issue.

Dorman then said he would have the escalation tree set up by the end of the week.

Youll have something quicker than that, Ciampoli responded.

Decker then said they have to have a better level of cooperation or we will look at something else.

Goggin took issue with that.

We need to fix the issues, not work toward separate departments, he said before bringing the discussion to a close.

Dorman said he would have the escalation tree set up by the end of the day Tuesday, and would attend the next Emergency Telephone System Board meeting.

We will overcommunicate, and we will exceed your expectations, he said.

Reach reporter Scott Cousins at 618-208-6447.
ALTON  The Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation has given $1 million to the Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) to annually serve hundreds of additional southern Illinois children.

Delta Dental of Illinois and Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation believe every Illinois child deserves a healthy smile and good oral health, said Bernie Glossy, president and chief executive officer of Delta Dental of Illinois and Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation. Oral health is integral to overall health, and its staggering how many children in Illinois have untreated tooth decay, especially when you consider its largely preventable.

The goal is to significantly decrease the wait time for patient treatment by creating state-of-the-art ambulatory centers focused on childrens oral health needs. The centers will feature procedure rooms specifically designed for children with innovative equipment such as cone beam CT, a special kind of X-ray, and new sedation suites.

This gift will enable us to treat some of the most vulnerable patients in our state, said Bruce Rotter DMD, MS, dean of the SIU SDM. The support of Delta Dental of Illinois and Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation will help us more effectively manage the treatment of the hundreds of patients seen through the Special Dental Care Needs Program each year. With the new ambulatory center and this new ability to administer general anesthesia to treat pediatric patients with complex dental care needs, we will be able to significantly expand our overall capacity and provide better care to these children.

According to the recent statewide oral health assessment report Oral Health in Illinois, poor oral health is one of the most pressing, unmet health care issues facing Illinois children today. The report found that one-third of Illinois children in rural areas have untreated tooth decay, and that Illinois children living in poverty are five times more likely to have fair or poor oral health.

The SIU School of Dental Medicine students manage approximately 35,000 patient visits each year at its patient clinics in Alton and East St. Louis. In addition, students offer oral health treatment, screenings and education to more than 10,000 people annually through a wide variety of off-campus community outreach events. These opportunities provide students the training they need to graduate and become highly skilled dentists. The School of Dental Medicine is a vital oral health care provider for residents of southern and central Illinois, and the St. Louis metropolitan region.
Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach speaks at a press conference on Aug. 6, 2018, in Mission, Kan. (Shelly Yang / Tribune News Service)
GODFREY  Presidential adviser Ivanka Trump, daughter of President Donald Trump, will visit Lewis & Clark Community College in Godfrey this week.

An advisory about the trip says Ivanka Trump is scheduled to visit Weber Workforce Development Center, where she and U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis, R-Taylorville, will participate with others in a roundtable discussion.

About 250 people are expected to be in the audience.

Im excited to discuss workforce development issues with Ivanka Trump, who is leading this issue for the White House, 13th District employers, and students at Lewis and Clark Community College, Davis said Monday in a Facebook post. Congress and the administration continue to work with businesses to improve workforce training opportunities to fill the jobs being created by our growing economy.

The visit is part of a nationwide tour in which Ivanka Trump is promoting the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act. President Trump signed the act last week.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, the act brings changes to the $1.2 billion annual federal investment in career and technical education. The U.S. Department of Education is working with states to implement the legislation, which goes into effect July 1.
WOOD RIVER  A pair of U.S. Army combat veterans are working together on two fronts to help discharged and retired veterans of any military branch, discharge type and era.

Veterans Assistance Commission (VAC) of Madison County Supervisor Bradley Lavite and Vet Center readjustment counselor Nathan Ferguson started a two-pronged VAC/Vet Center Group Outreach program that works toward a single goal of assisting veterans navigate the complex veterans health care and benefit system through the federal Veterans Health Administration and Benefits Administration, both under the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Lavite and Ferguson aim to provide consistency in their approach to help veterans readjust and maintain a healthy stable life.

Lavite works on the benefits administration side, assisting veterans with complicated Veterans Administration (VA) benefits paperwork and disability filings. Ferguson works on the health administration side and provides one-on-one mental health counseling, as well as readjustment counseling for groups of veterans.

When working on the benefits administrative side, we weave the question into every conversation, Have you met with the Vet Center? Lavite explained. They can get in to be seen one-on-one, free of charge, for readjustment or other counseling services. The federal government foots the bill. These are free services sitting here  paid for  for veterans to access and use immediately within the community. Veterans dont have to register, they dont have to have a medical card or insurance. Its all free, because they served.

Lavite and Ferguson began working together in 2015 to combine their expertise from their respective fields to maximize and capitalize on the various benefits and counseling services veterans receive throughout Madison County. Lavite provides a complex roadmap created specifically for each individual veteran and Ferguson helps those individuals navigate that roadmap specifically on the counseling side of things.

Counseling provided by the Vet Center is strictly confidential and in accordance with HIPAA laws, addressing mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and readjustment.

More Information If you go: VAC Supervisor Bradley Lavite and readjustment counselor Nathan Ferguson will hold the first monthly Wood River veterans group outreach meeting - which is open to all veterans - at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 22, at Von Dell Gallery. After the veterans group outreach portion, veterans have the option of hanging around for artist Terry Diveley's leather pictorial class, which he offers free to the general public from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Wednesday. Where: Von Dell Gallery, 102 E. Ferguson Ave., Wood River Info: To get plugged into a VAC/Vet Center Group Outreach, set up a one-on-one appointment or for additional information about the art program, call the Veterans Assistance Commission at 618-296-4554. Follow the Veterans Assistance Commission on Facebook @mcVeterans for more information. Vet Center satellite locations Readjustment counselor Nathan Ferguson works for the federal Vet Center in East St. Louis and does outpatient clinical therapy at various Vet Center satellite locations, now including Von Dell Gallery, located at 102 E. Ferguson Ave., in Wood River, at 9:30 a.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Besides the new Wood River location, VAC Supervisor Bradley Lavite and Ferguson also work together at the below outreach locations: 10:30 a.m. every Thursday at Cottage Hills Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7678, 121 S. Williams St. 10:30 a.m. first Wednesday of each month at River of Life Church, 3401 Fosterburg Road, Alton (Individual one-on-one appointments are available from 1 to 3:30 p.m.).

10:30 a.m. third Wednesday of each month at The Fountains in Granite City, 3450 Village Lane (Individual one-on-one appointments are available from 1 to 3:30 p.m.).

9:30 a.m. fourth Wednesday of each month at Von Dell Gallery, 102 E. Ferguson Ave. (Individual one-on-one appointments are available from 1 to 3:30 p.m.) The Vet Center program was established by Congress in 1979. There are 300 Vet Centers nationwide with approximately 2,200 employees, of which 70 percent are veterans and of that 70 percent, women make up 45 percent. In 2017-2018, the Lavite and Ferguson team worked with more than 1,350 veterans throughout all of the outreach locations. In addition, Ferguson provided more than 260 one-on-one counseling appointments, working in tandem with Lavite and the Veterans' Assistance Commission (VAC) of Madison County. See More Collapse

Readjustment is a primary focus because veterans in general  not just combat  have issues readjusting to numerous things in life, Ferguson said.

Ferguson works for the federal Vet Center in East St. Louis and does outpatient clinical therapy at various Vet Center satellite locations, now including Von Dell Gallery, located at 102 E. Ferguson Ave. in Wood River. Ferguson is on site starting at 9:30 a.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month in Wood River.

A veteran can walk into any of those location, theres no screening or pre-registration required, Lavite explained about each satellite VA center.

Consistent at each meeting and location is a counseling component, led by Ferguson, which goes along with Lavites component of navigating benefits administrative requirements, such as understanding the VA disability and compensation process and filling out the plethora of forms.

Both Lavite and Ferguson, as well as their individual offices, spend numerous hours connecting veterans to resources and following-up with them to ensure that they are successfully navigating the numerous systems. Individual one-on-one appointments are available from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at each outreach location, as a convenience to the veteran and to those who may not have stable transportation. A delegation of local Madison County, Illinois, veterans established the VAC in 1933 for the sigular purpose of assisting veterans in need.

Veterans who are active and participate in any of the VAC/Vet Center Group Outreach also has the opportunity to engage in a Von Dell Gallery art class provided by the VAC. Art classes give members of veteran groups a chance to maintain camaraderie in a laid-back, non-clinical environment; express themselves through art; and, complete a project to take home.

At this time, the VAC is planning to have quarterly art classes for those veterans who are active and participate as part of any of the established groups. The programs first quarterly art class at Von Dell occurred approximately three weeks ago, with the group taking instruction from award-winning artist Terry Diveley in his leathering art class. Diveley teaches the art of leather tooling and painting tooled images once pounded into a piece of leather.

The VAC/Vet Center Group Outreach meetings at the Von Dell Gallery are held on a re-occurring monthly basis, while the art classes are held on a quarterly basis and actively participating veterans are pre-registered by the VAC.

Lavite and Ferguson will hold the first monthly Wood River group outreach meeting, which is open to all veterans, at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 22, at Von Dell Gallery. After the veterans group outreach portion, veterans have the option of hanging around for Diveleys leather pictorial class, which he offers free to the general public from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Wednesday.

Diveley asked that interested people please register by calling Von Dell Gallery at 618-251-8550 to make sure there are enough tools for each student. Von Dell Gallery, owned by Gary Conrad, of Grafton, currently offers 14 different painting classes to the general public for a reasonable fee.

Diveley, of Bethalto, leases a studio at Von Dell Gallery and teaches regular open-to-the-public classes at the gallery. He is just one of many talented regional artists who teach and/or lease a studio at Von Dell. The art classes offered at Von Dell Gallery are all instructed by different artists who highlight each of their specific medium. Visit www.vondellgalleryandstudios.com for a complete list of classes and more information. Follow Von Dell Gallery on Facebook @vondellgalleryandstudios.

To get plugged into a VAC/Vet Center Group Outreach, set up a one-on-one appointment or for additional information about the art program, call the Veterans Assistance Commission at 618-296-4554. Follow the Veterans Assistance Commission on Facebook @mcVeterans for more information.

Reach Jill Moon at 618-208-6448 and Twitter @jill_moon.
For 10 long years, Ive been writing and broadcasting about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, now called myalgic encephalomyelitis.

Like all chronic diseases, its brutally unfair to the afflicted. But it also can claim to have been unfairly treated by doctors and medical researchers, the pharmaceutical giants, and the politicians who control the flow of funding to the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control, the nations medical research and health protection agencies.

Research into the disease has been grossly underfunded for years. By government standards for other diseases, research funding for it has been microscopic: Its received $16 million this year, doubling the 2016 funding. Lyme disease, for example, has received roughly three times the federal funding.

Myalgic encephalomyelitis is a lifetime affliction. Ive now spent enough time with clinicians, patients and their families to know just how cruel it is. Im most pained by the young who will suffer so long, missing all the joys of youth and the fulfillment that is lifes expectation.

Estimates vary on the number of sufferers, starting at 1 million in the United States and 17 million worldwide. However many there are, I can tell you that they suffer terribly.

Getting the disease is a life sentence without parole, commutation or pardon. One of the leading research doctors told me he would rather get cancer than myalgic encephalomyelitis. With cancer, you have a chance of a cure or you die. With ME, youre hopelessly sick, he said.

Ive received many emails from patients who wish for death. Some bring it about.

Myalgic encephalomyelitis suppresses the immune system, and its most common manifestation is exercise intolerance. Fatigue is the most pervasive symptom, with sleep that doesnt refresh.

In the most severe cases, patients are bedridden with extreme intolerance of light or sound. Others ride a rollercoaster of feeling slightly better or worse. Migraines and excruciating joint pain are other symptoms.

I was able to have one patient travel to Washington to appear on a television program and do a short radio broadcast. She paid the price she knew shed have to pay: three days of bed rest.

Some suffers can manage very limited daily activity. But the ever-present cloud of fatigue is there: the dark truth that theyre in a different place than the rest of us.

In the last five years, advocacy groups have generated more interest in the disease in the medical research community, including the NIH, and the public. These vital volunteer groups include the Solve ME/CFS Initiative, the Open Medicine Foundation and #MEAction, created by Jennifer Brea, star of the movie Unrest, and PANDORAorg. There are also diligent state organizations, like the Massachusetts Cfids Association.

Yet a cure still eludes, as does any large understanding of ME among doctors and researchers in related fields. The first struggle for the afflicted is to find a doctor who knows what it is and can render a diagnosis. Many visit a dozen or more doctors before they find one who might know the cause of their suffering. Theres no biological marker.

Medical schools dont include myalgic encephalomyelitis in their curricula: not even one lecture in most.

From clinicians in the field, like Dr. David Systrom of the Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Womens Hospital and his colleague Michael VanElzakker of the Massachusetts General Hospital, the cry is going out to medical schools to inform students about the disease.

Finding a cure is of prime importance. But until that day, getting the word out is also hugely important.

Searching for a cure takes talent, genius and money. For medical schools to advise a new generation of doctors that theres a monster out there who will one day come through the doors of their practices, is just good medical citizenship.

Hello, there, medical schools.

Llewellyn King is executive producer and host of White House Chronicle on PBS. His email is llewellynking1@gmail.com. He wrote this for InsideSources.com.
The Digital and Innovation Coordinator willcoordinate and initiate digital innovation in DCA Uganda. The position willsupport the development, expansion and implementation of DCA digitalinterventions through innovative digital solutions, with a special focus oncash. The position will add value to beneficiaries and partners through digitalchannels using current and future digital technology and capabilities. The DICwill be updated on market trends, assessing opportunities and adopting bestpractices from partners, private sector and other relevant stakeholders.
The Telegraph Herald reports that 51-year-old Clifford Smiley was sentenced Monday. He'd entered an Alford plea to a charge of attempted murder. In an Alford plea, a person doesn't admit guilt but acknowledges there is enough evidence for a likely conviction.
The ideal candidate for the Finance and Grants Officer USAID Projectjob placement should hold a Bachelors Degree in management, finance,accounting, or a related field and at least four years of professionalexperience. (4+) years of experience and a bachelor degree OR theequivalent combination of education and experience
The Gender Coordinator will support the designand implementation of a coherent and systematic approach to gendermainstreaming in Country Office programmes; act as a programme policy advisorin planning and monitoring of programme activities; provide support in overallcoordination of the UNDP Gender Focal Team and is responsible for coordinationof day-to-day substantial tasks assigned within UNDP Gender Equality Strategyand in line with organization objectives. The Gender Coordinator works in closecoordination with UNDP Programme and Operations teams, UNDP Regional Officesand HQs Gender Teams, staff of other UN Agencies, Government and nationalentities, as well as with development partners, civil society and all partnersin ensuring successful implementation of UNDP corporate and country specificgender strategies and initiatives
After entering Australia earlier this year, home-grown taxi hailing company Ola is now set to ride into the United Kingdom, where it has obtained licences to operate in South Wales and Greater Manchester region.

SoftBank-backed Ola says it will start operations in South Wales within the next month and it is working with local authorities across the UK to expand nationwide by the end of 2018.

Ola will be the only ride-hailing app in the UK that offers passengers the option of private hire vehicles and black cabs through one consumer-friendly platform, which will in future see additional transportation options incorporated for greater passenger choice, the Bengaluru-based company said on Tuesday.

Founded in 2011 by Bhavish Aggarwal and Ankit Bhati, Ola offers services in more than 110 cities in India through cabs, auto rickshaws and local taxis.

In February this year, the taxi aggregator had driven into Australia where it now operates in seven cities. The company claims 40,000 drivers across Australia have registered on its platform since the launch there and have completed millions of rides.

Starting Tuesday, Ola is inviting private hire vehicle and metered taxi drivers in the cities of Cardiff and Newport in South Wales and in the Vale of Glamorgan to register with Ola before the platform is opened for public later. Introductory commission rates will be as low as 10 per cent for private hire vehicles and 5 per cent for metered taxis, added Ola.

The UK is a fantastic place to do business and we look forward to providing a responsible, compelling, new service that can help the country meet its ever demanding mobility needs. We look forward to our continued engagement with policymakers and regulators as we expand across the country and build a company embedded in the UK, said Bhavish Aggarwal, co-founder and CEO of Ola.

The road ahead in the UK will not be easy though. Only in September last year, Transport for London had refused to renew the licence of Ola's rival Uber, stating that the US-taxi aggregator was not a fit and proper operator. Following a court hearing earlier this year, Uber was allowed to operate for 15 months.

In April this year, Ola had acquired Mumbai-based Ridlr, a public transport ticketing and commuting app as part of its efforts to integrate its mobility platform with public transportation infrastructure.

Both Ola and Uber have racked up huge losses over the years having burnt millions of dollars in a cut throat competition to gain an upper hand in the Indian market. Ola has started making money on every ride in India now, Aggarwal said recently.
Not in the best of relations, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) will on Tuesday meet representatives of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) that has raised a set of issues in Keralas film industry.

Its seen as a move by AMMA functionaries to join party to an ongoing criminal case on the 2017 assault of an actress that has become the most recent point of debate. The actress had told the court that she wasnt part of AMMA and didnt seek anyones legal help, thus leading to varied opinion among the officials as well as members of the association, currently headed by superstar Mohanlal.

AMMA executive members Rachana Narayanankutty and Honey Rose said it was to support the petition that they sought to become a third party in the lawsuit, wanting the case to be heard by a woman judge.

As the duo filed an impleading petition with the Kerala High Court, the assaulted actress maintained that she could fight the case alone. That led the judges to ask the impleaders about their motive. As the matter is becoming controversial, the AMMA functionaries may dissociate from the case, according to sources.

The new move has obviously divided AMMA into two. The impleading petition, many say, was a move by the association to pretend that it stood with the victim. Rumours are rife that AMMA had initially sought to file before the Kerala chief minister a memorandum undersigned by Mohanlal, wanting a woman judge to handle the actress assault case, and that a rival faction went on to torpedo it.

It was when that move thus failed that AMMA saw two of its functionaries trying to become party to the assault case. It had the permission from Mohanlal, but that went useless as the victim refused the impleaders support.

It was when the WCC came out in the open against AMMAs decision to take back actor Dileep, who is an accused in the assault case, that the issue took a turn for the worse. Under pressure, AMMA agreed to hold a dialogue with WCC, formed in November last year to address the issue of women artistes in Malayalam film industry and resolve them.












In a major step to increase footfalls and promote tourism in the remote Andaman and Nicobar islands, the government has excluded 29 inhabited islands in the Union Territory from the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) regime till December 31, 2022. These include Havelock, Long Island, Curfew Island, North Andaman, Smith Island, Neil Island, Flat Bay and Strait Island among others.

The lifting of RAP means that foreigners will now be allowed to visit these islands without prior permission from the government.

However, New Delhi remains wary of opening its doors to neighbouring countries like Pakistan and China, which have long been eyeing an opportunity to get a foothold in the strategically located islands.

The Modi government will not be extending this concession to citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals having their origin in these countries.

They would continue to require the Restricted Area Permit to visit Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In such cases, the Restricted Area Permit may be granted only after obtaining prior approval of the ministry of home affairs, said a senior MHA official.

Further for visiting Mayabunder and Diglipur, citizens of Myanmar will continue to require RAP which shall be issued only with the prior approval of the MHA.

The RAP is notified under the Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963.

The home ministry's decision to lift the RAP from these 29 islands with certain restrictions has been conveyed to the chief secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar administration.

Home Ministry officials said the decision has been taken in the interest of promoting tourism and overall development of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Besides the 29 islands, where the RAP has been lifted, foreigners have also been allowed to visit 11 other uninhibited islands notified by the UT administration only for day visits.

The governments decision to focus on developing infrastructure in this Union Territory to make it an international tourist destination is expected to bring more dividends. Once seen as a military post, these distant islands will help act as a key strategic asset for India which is rolling out its Look East policy. It will increase Indias engagement with southeast Asia and Indo-Pacific. The islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, also oversee major international sea routes.

Further, the government is taking steps to ensure preservation of natural and marine resources (including marine parks and environment) of the islands without affecting tourism and business. The administration and the ministry of environment and forests will be working hand in hand to ensure this. Separate approvals of the competent authority would continue to be required for visiting reserved forests, wildlife sanctuaries and tribal reserves as is the case at present.

List of Islands removed from Restricted Area Permit:

1. East Island; 2. North Andaman; 3. Smith Island; 4. Curfew Island; 5. Stewart Island; 6. Land Fall Island; 7. Ayes Island; 8. Middle Andaman; 9. Long Island; 10. Strait Island; 11. North Passage; 12. Baratang; 13. South Andaman; 14. Havelock; 15. Neil Island; 16. Flat Bay; 17. North Sentinel Island; 18. Little Andaman; 19. Chowra; 20. Tillang Chong Island; 21. Teressa; 22. Katchal; 23. Nancowry; 24. Kamorta; 25. Pulomilo; 26. Great Nicobar; 27. Little Nicobar; 28. Narcondam Island; 29. Interview island
The adage that failures can teach many lessons seems quite...
The special CBI Court in Ahmedabad on Tuesday rejected discharge applications of former IPS officers D.G. Vanzara and N. K. Amin in connection with the fake encounter case of 19-year-old Ishrat Jahan and three others.

The pleas were rejected by special judge J. K. Pandya.

Last month, Shamima Kauser, slain Ishrat's mother, had challenged the discharge plea of Vanzara.

A resident of Mumbra in Thane district of Maharashtra, Ishrat along with Javed Sheikh alias Pranesh Pillai, Amjad Ali Rana and Zeeshan Johar was killed in a police encounter on the outskirts of Ahmedabad on June 15, 2004.

Seeking parity with former DGP P.P. Pandey, Vanzara had sought discharge from the court in the case. Earlier, Pandey was discharged from the case for want of evidence against him.

Amin had contented that the encounter was genuine and that the testimonies of the witnesses were not reliable.

In the court, Shamima had maintained that her daughter was murdered as part of a conspiracy between high level officers and those holding influential positions.

Immediately after the encounter, the Gujarat Police had said that the four had terror links and had come to Gujarat to kill the chief minister. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the then chief minister of the state.

In 2016, in her one bhk house in Mumbra, Shamima had narrated to THE WEEK how Ishrat studied, took tuition and acted as a bread earner of the family. Shamima had categorically stated that if you were in a custody and killed it was not an encounter. It was planned before hand, she had said.
"Srinu and I came to the United States of America full of dreams and aspirations. . . . Now, my American Dream - and that of Srinu's - is broken," she wrote. "If you could have kept your anger inside and spoke to my husband softly, Srinu would have been more than happy to share his background and help you understand that not every brown skinned person is suspicious or evil, but kind, smart and contributing to America. Instead you chose to rage and bully in anger and when you were stopped, you decided to take their lives."
Four soldiers, including a Major, and two militants were killed after the Army foiled an infiltration bid at Gurez in Bandipore in north Kashmir.

According to sources in the Army, a group of heavily armed militants from Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir sneaked into Gurez, upon which the soldiers of 36 Rashtriya Rifles(RR) intercepted them at Baktor near the Line of Control.

In the ensuing encounter, four soldiers and two militants were killed in the initial contact. Army reinforcements have encircled the infiltrating militants. Sources suggest that the militants' casualty might go up by another three.

Gurez, which is around 130 km from Srinagar and 80 km from Bandipore, is an unlikely area for infiltration. The militants, it seems, chose the area as other sectors on the LoC are heavily guarded and monitered round-the-clock.

Bandipore SSP Sheikh Zulfikar told THE WEEK that they are collecting more details as the encounter has taken place at the extreme point on the LoC.
In yet another shocking case, a mentally unstable man was lynched by a mob in a village of Dindori district in Madhya Pradesh. The district police of Madhya Pradesh has arrested 10 people and registered cases against many others in the case.

Mukesh Gond, 27, was lynched on suspicion of being a 'child lifter'. The man was killed in the village of Singhwara and thrown in to a well by a group of dozen men.

According to the Superintendent of Police Karthiyekan K. the police recovered the dead body on August 1 from a well near the village of Singhwara under the jurisdiction of Samnapaur police station. The hands and legs were tied so as to ensure drowning. There were marks of brutal beatings on the body and the postmortem revealed that the man died because of the severe injuries received during the beating.

Though the police questioned the locals about the body, the villagers kept silent. It was only after a detailed investigation that the story of the brutal beating came out. Four men from the village, who were inebriated, had accosted Mukesh when he was roaming in the outskirts of the village. Mukesh, son of Lalla Gond, was mentally unsound. He was a resident of the neighbouring Anuppur district and had strayed into the village after he left his home few days back.

The four men, Jagdish, Chetram, Sanjay and Gangaram, accused Mukesh of being a bacha-chor (child-lifter) after he ran away from them. As he was mentally unsound, Mukesh could not answer their questions. As Mukesh ran, the four men pounced on him and took him to the village where others joined in beating him.

The DSP said that Mukesh was attacked by many others including Ramprasd, Ramdin, Hirasingh, Ratan, Khemsingh and Naresh. Police has arrested all of them and registered case against several others who were involved in the beating.

Later, when the villagers realized that Mukesh had died due to their attack, they tied Mukesh with ropes and threw his body in a well. The police said the villagers hoped that nobody will find the body.

This is the second such case in last 10 days in state. Earlier, a mentally disturbed homeless 30-year-old woman was lynched by a mob in a Singrauli district village of Madhya Pradesh. The woman was killed after a fake WhatsApp message went viral in the region that a woman child-lifter was active in the village. Villagers of Badgad under Morba police station killed the woman after taking her on a procession and dumped her in a nearby nullah (rivulet).
The Congress chief of Nagaland says he would like to invite Shashi Tharoor to Nagaland and make him wear a Naga headgear.

The president of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress, K. Therie, said that Shashi Tharoor's remarks calling the Naga headgear as outlandish were completely unnecessary. Therie said this in response to Tharoor's remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi wearing Naga traditional headgear, while refusing that of another community.

Tharoor, at a convention, had said that Modi refused to wear a cap of a particular community (Muslim skull cap) while he wears various other attire, including "outlandish" Naga headgear.

"Shashi wanted to tell nation that PM would look hilarious in the Naga headgear. I think he [Tharoor] too, would look hilarious," Therie said with a laugh.

"It was completely unnecessary for a man like Shashi Tharoor to make such a remark. A comparison should not be made by degrading another tradition," the senior Naga Congress leader told THE WEEK.

Therie said he would like to invite Tharoor to Nagaland to help him understand the Naga attire. "I would like to invite him to Nagaland. I would also put a headgear on his head to remove any misconception he might have about the Naga headgear," he said.

Tharoor's remarks had invited huge criticism from BJP and its allies including those from Northeastern states. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who is an MP from Arunachal Pradesh, sought an apology from Tharoor.

While senior Congress leaders in Delhi stayed away from making any comments, only the Naga Congress president has come out calling the remarks as outlandish. Therie agrees that the Prime Minister looks hilarious while wearing the various headgears, but he supports Modi as by wearing the headgear he is accepting the Naga culture.

"It would have been good had he worn the skull cap of Muslims to win their heart as well. I am not saying Modi has won hearts of Naga people by wearing our headgear, as he is clueless on solving the decades old Naga problem. But to make statement that his wearing Naga attire is outlandish means others too don't have respect for Naga tradition," said Therie.
Following reports by a media outlet of Russia planning to meddle in elections in India and Brazil, the Russian Embassy in New Delhi has denied the allegations.

Russia had never interfered in internal politics of other countries as it went against the fundamental principles of its foreign policy, the embassy clarified. "This blatantly false and unfounded assertion is a phoney attempt to drive a wedge between Russia and her BRICS partners following the success of the recent summit meeting of the group in Johannesburg," an official statement said.

"It has become a common knowledge that Russia enjoys the camaraderie with India and will never do anything that goes against the interests and dignity of the friendly Indian nation," it added.

The strong reaction from the Russian Embassy came after Philip N. Howard, an Oxford University social media expert, last week made the claim during a hearing of the US Senate Intelligence Committee on Foreign Influence on Social Media platforms. The remarks came during a hearing of the Senate Intelligence Committee on Foreign Influence on Social Media platforms. Howard, however, did not elaborate further about his allegations.

The situation could be more dangerous in those countries where the media is not as professional as that of the US, he said. Howard's mention of likely Russian interference in the Indian and Brazilian elections through their media, without any further explanation, came in response to a question from Senator Susan Collins after he gave some examples of such interference in the Hungarian media.

13 Russian nationals were indicted by United States Special counsel Robert Mueller for allegedly interfering in the 2016 United States elections.

The New York Times reported that along with the 13 nationals, three Russian organisations were also accused of illegally using social media platforms to influence the Presidential elections of the United States.
A high-pitched legal battle unfolded hours after DMK supremo M. Karunanidhi breathed his last at a Chennai hospital on Tuesday, with the state government turning down DMK's request for the burial of its leader at Marina near the memorial of party founder Annadurai. The DMK has moved the Madras High Court which is hearing the case at the residence of Acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G. Ramesh.

The AIADMK government rejected DMK's request citing several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications. The government also said in a statement that it is prepared to allot a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials of Rajaji and Kamaraj.

Reports said the government was reluctant about allotting space for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina as he was not a sitting chief minister. Former chief ministers M.G. Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa were buried at the Marina beach and memorials to them were erected there. Both were bitter foes of Karunanidhi in politics. Karunanidhi's predecessor Annadurai was also in office when he died.

Incidentally, the development came on a day when a PIL filed in the Madras High Court seeking to restrain the Corporation of Greater Chennai from permitting any burial of bodies on the famous Marina Beach was dismissed as withdrawn.

When the bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G. Ramesh and Justice S.S. Sundar began the day's hearings, petitioner V. Gandhimathi made an urgent mention and sought permission to withdraw her plea.

The petitioner had submitted that the coastal area of Marina was being turned into a burial ground, which not only spoiled the aesthetics but also endangered the ecosystem in and around the beach. She had sought a direction to the Corporation not to permit burials in the area.

If any further burials and resultant construction were allowed at the Marina, it would damage the environment, she had said.

The Chennai Corporation had in December 2016 declared a portion of the Marina beach as a burial ground, paving way for the construction of a memorial for Jayalalithaa. As per Section 319 of the CCMC Act, no new place for the disposal of the dead, whether public or private, shall be opened, formed, constructed or used unless a licence has been obtained from the commissioner on application.

(With inputs from PTI)
A tweet by Canada's Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland has resulted in the souring of relationship between Canada and Saudi Arabia. The international bond has withered so much that Saudi Arabia froze new trade and investment with Canada, expelled the Canadian ambassador from the country, recalled its ambassador from Canada and suspended the state airliner's direct flights to Toronto. The kingdom will suspend educational exchange programmes with Canada and move Saudi scholarship recipients to other countries, Saudi-owned Al Arabiya reported.

All this over a tweet! Last Thursday, Canada's Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland wrote on Twitter on Thursday that she was "very alarmed" to learn that Saudi-American human rights campaigner Samar Badawi, sister of jailed blogger Raif Badawi, had been detained. Human rights groups had reported that Badawi was detained last week. She had received the US International Women of Courage Award in 2012 and is known for challenging Saudi Arabia's male guardianship system. Her brother Raif was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 1,000 lashes for "insulting Islam" online back in 2014, while his wife, Ensaf Haidar, lives in Canada and recently became a Canadian citizen.

Very alarmed to learn that Samar Badawi, Raif Badawis sister, has been imprisoned in Saudi Arabia. Canada stands together with the Badawi family in this difficult time, and we continue to strongly call for the release of both Raif and Samar Badawi.  Chrystia Freeland (@cafreeland) August 2, 2018

The next day, the Canadian foreign ministry called for the release of the activist's immediate release.

Canada is gravely concerned about additional arrests of civil society and womens rights activists in #SaudiArabia, including Samar Badawi. We urge the Saudi authorities to immediately release them and all other peaceful #humanrights activists.  Foreign Policy CAN (@CanadaFP) August 3, 2018

The Saudi foreign ministry was surprised by the statement. In a series of tweets the ministry slammed Canada's statement and called it "entirely false and utterly incorrect". The ministry then went on to say Canada that their "position is an overt and blatant interference in the internal affairs of the Kingdom of #SaudiArabia".

"KSA through its history has not and will not accept any form of interfering in the internal affairs of the Kingdom. The KSA considers the Canadian position an attack on the KSA and requires a firm stance to deter who attempts to undermine the sovereignty of the KSA," the Twitter post of the Saudi foreign ministry said.

The Saudi foreign ministry went on to warn Canada that "Any other attempt to interfere with our internal affairs from #Canada, means that we are allowed to interfere in #Canada's internal affairs."

Then it went on to recall its ambassador to Canada and expel Canadian ambassador.

#Statement | The negative and surprising attitude of #Canada is an entirely false claim and utterly incorrect.  Foreign Ministry  (@KSAmofaEN) August 5, 2018

But the situation took a turn for the worse when a Twitter account, reportedly linked to Saudi authorities, shared an image of a plane flying towards Toronto's famed CN Tower. Text overlaying the image read, "he who interferes with what doesn't concern him finds what doesn't please him."

More very concerning rhetoric emerging from #SaudiArabia, once again involving aviation.



In Saudis latest rift, now with #Canada  an account connected to the Saudi Royal Court has published images with text of an @AirCanada Boeing 767 descending towards CN Tower in Toronto  pic.twitter.com/FKcrikI5QD  Alex Macheras (@AlexInAir) August 6, 2018

Social media was quick to point out the similarities between the image and 9/11 attack. Though the account was deleted, cached versions of the tweet are circulating online.

Canada has responded by saying it "will continue to advocate for human rights".

Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland said she was "deeply concerned" by the diplomat's expulsion, but added: "Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including women's rights and freedom of expression around the world.

"We will never hesitate to promote these values and we believe that this dialogue is critical to international diplomacy."

It is yet to be seen whether the new trade ban will affect existing annual Saudi-Canadian trade of nearly $4 billion and a $13 billion defense contract.

Though Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been trying to bring in reforms in the country, the monarchy refuses to liberalise the politcal system and shuts down public dissent. Economic and social reforms might be on the way, but the kingdom's response is a clear indication of the tight ship they run and the limit of Salman's reform efforts.
Mumbai, Aug 7 (PTI) Market benchmark BSE Sensex retreated from record levels to end almost flat at 37,665.80 points today due to profit booking in banking and energy stocks after a recent rally.

The broader NSE Nifty, however, extended its record run for a third straight session and closed at a fresh record high of 11,389.45, showing marginal gain of 2.35 points or 0.02 per cent. Intra-day, it hit a new high of 11,428.95 and a low of 11,359.70.

Stock markets were volatile today even as global markets posted gains on encouraging corporate results and gains in oil stocks.

The Sensex opened higher and rallied to a fresh life-time high of 37,876.87 in early trade. However, it succumbed to profit booking, before finally ending at 37,665.80 points, down by 26.09 points, or 0.07 per cent.

The Sensex swung about 300 points on alternate bouts of buying and selling during the volatile session.

Investors booked profits in range-bound trade, led by PSU, oil & gas, energy, infrastructure, telecom, realty, healthcare, bankex, FMCG, capital goods and power counters.

Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Financial Services Ltd said, "Market was range bound after touching a new high. Global cues were positive despite concerns of trade tensions. Back home, PSU banks slid on account of profit booking after two consecutive days of rally.

"Earnings were largely in line with market expectation while positive guidance for sectors like consumer durables, pharma & select large caps will enthuse the market to have a positive momentum."

Adani Ports was the top loser in the Sensex pack, falling by 6.49 per cent after the company reported 9 per cent decline in consolidated profit for the June quarter.

Index major Reliance Industries declined 0.67 per cent on profit booking after a two-day rally, dragging the index down to nearly flat.

Banking major SBI dropped 1.47 per cent, ICICI Bank by 0.62 per cent, and Axis Bank by 0.75 per cent after a recent rally.

Coal India fell by 2.63 per cent, ONGC 1.24 per cent, Sun Pharma 1.13 per cent, Tata Motors 1.12 per cent, Bharti Airtel 1.04 per cent, M&M 0.72 per cent, TCS 0.42 per cent, HDFC 0.18 per cent, ITC 0.18 per cent, Bajaj Auto 0.16 per cent and Power Grid by 0.13 per cent.

However, Tata Steel was the top gainer in the Sensex kitty, surging 3.61 per cent, followed by Asian Paints 1.63 per cent, NTPC 1.31 per cent and Vedanta 1.25 per cent.

Maruti Suzuki gained 1.18 per cent, Yes Bank 1.05 per cent, HDFC Bank 0.80 per cent, Infosys 0.63 per cent, L&T 0.34 per cent, HUL 0.26 per cent, Wipro 0.22 per cent, IndusInd Bank 0.22 per cent, Hero Motocorp 0.15 and Kotak Bank 0.09 per cent.

Sector wise, the BSE PSU index lost the most by falling 1.08 per cent, followed by oil & gas 1.02 per cent, energy 0.88 per cent, infrastructure 0.87 per cent, telecom 0.72 per cent, realty 0.51 per cent, healthcare 0.43 per cent, bankex 0.26 per cent, FMCG 0.20 per cent, capital goods 0.18 per cent and power 0.12 per cent.

In line with overall trend, the S&P BSE Small-Cap index shed 0.22 per cent while the mid-cap index inched down 0.18 per cent.

While metal index top the gainers list, by surging 1.27 per cent after copper prices rose in global commodity markets.

NMDC was up 6.24 per cent, Jindal Steel & Power 3.45 per cent, Steel Authority of India 1.86 per cent, Hindalco Industries 1.32 per cent, Vedanta 1.25 per cent and JSW Steel 1.08 per cent.

Other sectoral indices such as consumer durables, auto, teck and IT also managed to close in the green, rising up to 1.25 per cent.

The market breadth turned negative as 1,471 stocks

closed in red while 1,255 stocks finished in green and 149

ruled steady.

However, Asian markets advanced following gains in oil stocks after US President Donald Trump re-imposed sanctions on oil producer Iran. China's Shanghai Composite Index climbed 2.74 per cent, Japan's Nikkei rose 0.69 per cent and Hong Kong's Hang Seng moved up 1.54 per cent.

European stocks were trading higher today, as investors monitored global trade tensions and the latest batch of corporate earnings.

In the Eurozone, Frankfurt's DAX rose 0.76 per cent and Paris CAC gained 0.73 per cent in their late morning deals. London's FTSE too gained 0.80 per cent. PTI DPL KPS SDG RD PAK SUM MR

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Authorities are still looking for the masked gunman who entered the non-commercial radio station around 3 a.m. Sunday and opened fire on three people in one of the studios. One of the three volunteers, a DJ, was wounded. He was treated at a hospital and released. The two others were not injured.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) Foreign tourists can visit 29 inhabited islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which were prohibited for visitors, without any restrictions, the Home Ministry said today.

Foreigners will also be allowed to visit 11 uninhabited islands, to be notified by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration, only for day visits.

The decision has been taken in the interest of promoting tourism and overall development of the Union Territory, a Home Ministry official said.

The 29 inhabited islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been excluded from the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) regime notified under the Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963, till December 31, 2022, subject to certain conditions, the official said.

The islands are: East Island, North Andaman, Smith Island, Curfew Island, Stewart Island, Land Fall Island, Ayes Island, Middle Andaman, Long Island, Strait Island, North Passage, Baratang, South Andaman, Havelock, Neil Island, Flat Bay, North Sentinel Island, Little Andaman, Chowra, Tillang Chong Island, Teressa, Katchal, Nancowry, Kamorta, Pulomilo, Great Nicobar, Little Nicobar, Narcondam Island and Interview island.

A communication to this effect has been sent to the chief secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration.

However, citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals having their origin in these countries would continue to require RAP to visit the Union Territory.

In such cases, the RAP may be granted only after obtaining prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

For visiting Mayabunder and Diglipur, citizens of Myanmar will continue to require RAP, which shall be issued only with the prior approval of the ministry.

In order to ensure preservation of natural and marine resources, including marine parks and environment, of the Union Territory without affecting tourism and business at large, it should be ensured by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration that the guidelines issued by the Environment and Forests Ministry are strictly adhered to, the Home Ministry said in its communication.

Separate approvals of the competent authority would continue to be required for

visiting reserved forests, wildlife sanctuaries and tribal reserves as is the case at

present, the official said. PTI ACB ACB ANB

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New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) Business leaders today condoled the death of DMK leader M Karunanidhi, describing him as "a giant among men" with a knack for humour and as a leader who ensured a remarkable industrial growth of Tamil Nadu.

"Political leaders in Tamil Nadu have always been larger than life. Kalaignar Karunanidhi ji was a giant among men for sure. But in every encounter that I had with him I was struck by his informality, his humour and his hearty laugh.The most celebrated men are always the most human," industrialist Anand Mahindra said.

"An iconic political leader who led with conviction," another business leader, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw of Biocon group said while paying her tributes.

Karunanidhi, a colossus of Dravidian politics, died in Chennai today after waging a grim battle for life for 11 days.

Karunanidhi, one of the most charismatic leaders of Tamil Nadu whose public life spanned over seven decades, was 94. He was five-time chief minister.

Union Minister Arun Jaitley tweeted he was extremely pained by the sad demise of "an exceptional politician and mass leader".

"He was a great human being. His contributions to Tamil Nadu and national politics will always be remembered," Jaitley said while extending his condolences to Karunanidhi's family members and the party.

Former finance minister P Chidambaram said, "In the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi, the nation and the Tamil people have lost a colossus who was more than the 50-year leader of a political party and a five-time Chief Minister."

"Kalaignar had the unique honour of being an acknowledged multi-faceted leader in multiple fields such as politics, literature, journalism, drama, cinema, art, philosophy and government administration," he said.

Industry body CII said the country has lost a great visionary, dynamic and inspiring leader who ensured equitable socio-economic development of Tamil Nadu.

In a statement, CII President Rakesh Bharti Mittal condoled the demise and said "during the tenure of Dr Karunanidhi as Chief Minister over many terms, industrial growth in Tamil Nadu had progressed remarkably well."

Several key initiatives were taken through his inspirational direction and strong encouragement, said the CII President, adding that "these contributed greatly to industrial development in the state."

Mittal referred to notable programs where CII partnered with the late Chief Minister such as District Development Plans, Southern Districts initiative in Tamil Nadu, Development of IT parks in Tier II Cities and ICT Academy of Tamil Nadu in partnership with the State Government.

"Industry in the state will always miss his towering personality and erudite guidance," said Mittal. PTI RSN MR BJ

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Toronto, Aug 7 (PTI) A 19-year-old Sikh man was shot dead outside his home and his cousin was injured by unidentified persons in an apparent targeted shooting in Canada, police said.

Gagandeep Singh Dhaliwal, who was known to local police but had no criminal records, got home on Sunday with his family following a wedding reception. He then went to the garage to hang out with his cousin, and it was at that time when the shooting started, his family was quoted as saying by the Global News.

The Abbotsford Police Department said officers responded to a report of shots fired at a home around 11:30 PM. Upon arrival, they found two men who had been shot.

Dhaliwal was pronounced dead shortly after arriving in hospital and his cousin is in hospital receiving treatment, the report said.

His cousin, who is "roughly the same age" as Dhaliwal, is expected to survive. The injured man has not been identified, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) said in a statement.

"It's not clear what the motive was but investigators believe the shooting was targeted," Corporal Frank Jang with the IHIT said.

"Whenever, you know, some person or persons decide to discharge or fire a gun in the community, there's always that concern that it could hit someone else. In this case we believe the bullets hit their target. We believe Dhaliwal was targeted for murder," he said.

Jang said they believe "an unknown person approached the residence and shots were fired but have not yet determined a motive.

"Right now, it's too early to tell if it's gang-related or drug-related or a personal conflict with somebody," Jang said, adding that no arrests have been made so far.

Family friend Jaskarn Singh Dhaliwal said All of sudden, someone came over and started shooting them.

"Something went wrong and when, why, we have no clue yet. Police are working on it. His family tried hardest to keep him on track. The family is in shock. The whole community is in shock."

Dhaliwal was working as an electrician's apprentice.

The incident has rattled neighbours, who said there had not been any problems at the home before. PTI AMS AKJ AMS

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Lahore, Aug 7 (PTI) The convict in a rape and murder of a minor girl in Punjab's Kasur city, which sparked outrage and protests across Pakistan, has been given death penalty by an anti-terrorism court for two more similar cases, according to a media report.

Imran Ali, 24 who was involved in at least nine incidents of rape-cum-murder of minors, including the brutal rape and murder of the minor girl in Kasur which he had confessed to during her murder investigation, Dawn newspaper reported.

The anti-terrorism court (ATC) yesterday handed out the death penalty to Ali after the prosecution established the role of Ali in the rape and murder charges framed in the cases, the report said.

He is currently incarcerated and on death-row for the rape and murder of the minor Kasur girl.

He was also ordered to pay a fine of Rs 1,500,000 and Rs 75,000 under the compensation determined by the court.

Failure to pay the fines will result in an additional six months of imprisonment, the court said.

On Saturday, Ali was given death sentence on 12 counts for the rape and murder of three other minor girls. Three more cases remain pending against him.

Earlier this year, the rape and murder of the minor girl in Kasur had sparked outrage and protests across the country.

Ali was nabbed by authorities on January 23 following a DNA-match.

He was found to be a serial killer and had confessed to his crimes.

On February 17, he was given a death sentence for abduction, rape and murder in the Kasur girl case.

He was then awarded four counts of the death penalty, one life term, 7-year jail term and Rs 4.1 million in fines back in February for raping and murdering the minor Kasur girl. PTI AMS AKJ AMS

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Islamabad, Aug 7 (PTI) Pakistan's former army chief Gen Raheel Sharif did not obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Cabinet before leaving for Saudi Arabia to head a 41-nation military alliance, the attorney general informed the Supreme Court today.

The apex court had asked the government last week how it allowed Gen (retd) Sharif and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lt Gen (retd) Shuja Pasha to take up jobs abroad despite a law barring officers from accepting employment for two years post-retirement.

After the retirement in 2016, Gen (retd) Sharif left for Riyadh to head a military alliance of Muslim countries led by Saudi Arabia.

During the hearing of a suo motu case regarding dual nationality of civil servants and judges, Attorney General Khalid Jawed Khan said that as per the law, the NOC is issued by the federal government to government officers willing to join service in foreign lands, Dawn reported.

He said that it is required for the NOC to be approved by the Cabinet under government service rules.

Khan presented the legal perspective after defence secretary Lt Gen (retd) Zamirul Hassan informed the court that it was the defence ministry which had granted NOC to Gen (retd) Sharif after Army Headquarters (GHQ) cleared him to accept the post of commander of the military alliance.

Speaking about Pasha, the secretary told the court that the former ISI chief has informed in his reply that he is currently unemployed.

According to media reports, after retirement in 2012, the former ISI chief worked with a multinational firm based in the UAE. He now serves as group chief adviser to a Lahore-based firm owned by a Pakistani politician.

The court had asked the defence secretary to furnish the NOCs issued by the government to Sharif and Pasha for joining foreign jobs.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar ordered authorities that the matter of Sharif's appointment be placed before the federal cabinet for a regular approval (or disapproval).

"We have to proceed according to the law," he said during the hearing, observing that the authority of the federal government is controlled by the Cabinet. He said the matter at hand was of an urgent nature.

The hearing was adjourned till an unannounced date after the summer vacations as the attorney general and defence secretary sought time to refer the matter of NOC to the cabinet, the paper said.

Sharif's appointment as the leader of the Saudi-led military alliance sparked debate over how the move will impact Pakistan's foreign policy, and whether it was fully sanctioned by parliament.

His appointment had been criticised by some Pakistani politicians, retired army officers, journalists, intellectuals.

The Saudi-led coalition was envisaged to serve as a platform for security cooperation, including provision of training, equipment and troops, and involvement of religious scholars for dealing with extremism.

The Saudi government had surprised many countries by announcing that it had forged a coalition for coordinating and supporting military operations against terrorism in Iraq, Syria, Libya, Egypt and Afghanistan.

Iran, Saudi Arabia's arch-rival for influence in the Arab world, was absent from the states named as participants, as proxy conflicts between the two regional powers rage from Syria to Yemen. Syria was also missing from the list of member states.

Pakistan has good ties with both Iran and Saudi Arabia.

The then defence minister Khawaja Asif had defended the Gen (retd.) Sharif's appointment, saying it was an administrative decision and not linked to the conflict in Yemen. PTI ZH AKJ ZH

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Asia's biggest data centre to be set up in Sindhudurg: Govt

Mumbai, Aug 7 (PTI) Asia's biggest data centre would

be set up in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra with an

investment of Rs 5,000 crore, the state government said today.

State Tourism Minister Jaykumar Rawal and Minister of

State for Tourism Deepak Kesarkar made the announcement here

following their meeting with Malta's Tourism and Cultural

Minister Konrad Mizzi.

A private firm would make the investment, linking the

proposed data centre in Sindhudurg to another located in

Malta, they said.

"Asia's biggest data centre would be set up in

Sindhudurg with an investment of Rs 5,000 crore. The data

centre will be connected to another in Malta, laying

underground cable in sea," Rawal told reporters.

The ministers also said that trials of flight

operations at the Parule Chipi airport in Sindhudurg would be

held in October this year, while an international flight would

arrive there from Malta in December.

The European country is also set to host a festival of

Indian films in December.

Rawal said the state government also signed an MoU

with the Malta government for offering some courses to

students at the Solapur hotel management institute.

On his part, Mizzi said that the government of his

country was happy with the collaboration.

"We believe that in these areas we can work together

to create a win-win (situation). Malta and India share a

common heritage," he said.

The Maltese minister added that the government there

collaborated with the Devendra Fadnavis-led dispensation to

attract more Indian tourists to the European nation.

"We will be exploring more details of the flights. We

will also see if Malta could offer the Indian diaspora cheaper

route as well to come back to India without going to other

hubs in other regions which should reduce the flight time as

well," he said.

Meanwhile, Rawal said the government was in talks with

two-three companies to launch battery-operated glass

submarines in sea at Sindhudurg as announced in the budget for

the current fiscal. PTI ENM

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Thane, Aug 7 (PTI) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief today over the death of Major Kaustubh Ranem who was killed in Jammu and Kashmir during a operation to foil an infiltration bid.

Major Rane was a resident of Bhayander in Thane district of the state.

He and three soldiers were killed while foiling an infiltration bid in north Kashmir's Gurez sector. At least two militants were gunned down in the operation.

"We Salute from Thane for his supreme sacrifice for BharatMata ! He lost his life while foiling infiltration bid in Gurez in Jammu & Kashmir. We stand firm with his family in this hour of grief," the chief minister said in a tweet.

A pall of gloom descended on the Shital Nagar locality in Bhayander in the district, after the news of Major Rane's death.

Major Rane was a resident of Hiral Sagar society. He is survived by his aged parents, wife and a two-and-a-half-year old child, a district information official said.

A neighbour said the family members of Rane and the residents of the building are in a state of shock.

The official said Major Rane's father retired as an employee of a Tata firm and his mother as an employee of an educational institute in suburban Borivli.

Rane's wife Kanika and their child have gone to his native village Vaibhavwadi in the Konkan region, and his parents are preparing to leave for the village.

Major Rane had studied in the Holy Cross Convent School in the locality.

The details about the arrival of the major's body and the timing of his funeral are not yet known. PTI CORR NSK ANB

ANB
Nagpur, Aug 7 (PTI) Chief Election Commissioner O P

Rawat today said the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) is a

foolproof technology and has not witnessed any

malfunctioning in the past several years.

"The maximum failure rate of EVM is 0.5 per cent,"

Rawat said, delivering a lecture organised by the Dainik

Bhaskar group here.

Even this failure rate was because of initial glitches

experienced in Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail machines

which were introduced in 2017, he said.

However, experts from the Indian Institute of

Technology, Bombay, have examined the cause of these glitches

and the VVPAT machines functioned smoothly in the recent

by-elections in the country, he said.

Talking about the demand of reintroduction of ballot

paper by some political parties who are sceptical about EVMs,

Rawat said, "The Election Commission will be speaking with the

political parties concerned which have sought time to discuss

the issue, and clearing their doubts."

In the past, lakhs of votes would be declared invalid

during ballot paper voting for reasons such as wrong stamping,

he pointed out.

To stress that the polling process has improved, he

cited "Electoral integrity perception index", a project of

Harvard and Sydney Universities.

India got a score of 59 out of 100 as per this index

for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, while the score improved to

69 out of 100 one year later, after the 2015 Bihar elections,

he said.

"The Election Commission is continuously taking steps, be

it in use of technology or in addressing the concerns of any

voter, party or candidate....We are committed to address the

concerns and clear the doubts all stake-holders," Rawat said.

He also touched on the role played by "big data firms"

such as Cambridge Analytica.

"Money is being pumped into these firms to carry out a

very detailed and minute research on the prospective voter to

get accurate guidance on how to influence them.

"This kind of influencing is slowly taking place in our country, however, it

has already influenced elections in many developed countries,"

he said.

"....It is a matter of grave concern and danger as

physical movement of money can be curbed but misuse of money

in elections is taking place in other form as these," said

Rawat. PTI CLS KRK ANB

ANB
Muzaffarnagar, Aug 7 (PTI) An Army jawan's wife was found hanging from the ceiling of their home under mysterious circumstances in Shamli district of Uttar Pradesh, a police official said today.

According to SHO Krishan Kumar, Shivani's family has accused her husband and her in-laws of killing her yesterday and then hanging her body to show it as a case of suicide. The incident happened in Manat village under Thana Bhawan police station area.

The woman's father has alleged in his complaint that his daughter was being harassed by her in-laws for dowry, Kumar said.

He has alleged that her daughter was living with them for six months following disputes with her in-laws and had returned to her husband's house a few days ago.

The SHO said the Army jawan is posted in Ladakh.

The body has been sent for post-mortem. No arrest has been made so far. PTI CORR ABH

ABH
CHINESE investments in Tanzania have increased ten times to 15.82tri/- within six years, with the worlds second largest economy promising more capital inflows.

China will continually perceive Tanzania as our key development partner, Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Wang Ke said in Dar es Salaam yesterday.

Speaking to President John Magufuli at the State House, Ms Ke reaffirmed her countrys commitment to maintain strong bi-lateral ties between the two friendly countries, especially on economic fronts, where major development projects have been executed and others are under construction. She cited the past six years in which Chinese investments in Tanzania have increased from 1.58tri/- to 15.82tri/-.

Dr Magufuli appreciated the investment but asked the envoy to continue encouraging more Chinese investors to come and invest in development projects for the mutual benefits of the two countries. He particularly thanked his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping for the 20 scholarships Tanzani-ans to pursue Masters and PhD programmes in bone marrow, liver transplant and treatment at Shandong University.

The new offer comes in addition to 30 scholarships for medical practitioners to attend trainingin hospital management. Kindly deliver my heartfelt appreciations to President (Xi) Jinpingassure him that Tanzania will always treasure the brotherly and historic relations between our two countries, Dr Magufuli told the envoy whom he asked to help Tanzania to attract more Chinese investors.

President Magufuli said the government is fully committed to put in place favourable environment for trade and investments. The scholarships are in response to President Magufulis request during the expedition of Chinese doctors aboard a stateof- the-art Naval Hospital Ship, Peace Ark, which docked at the Dar es Salaam port last November to offer free medical care to Tanzanians.

Ms Ke made a courtesy call to President Magufuli in his Magogoni office for discussions and delivery of a letter from President Jinping.

During the naval hospital ship voyage, hundreds of people from all walks of life received free medical care aboard the vessel, which had all medical checkup facilities and drugs, 115 doctors, 266 nurses and other staff as well as 300 beds.

Meanwhile, Dr Magufuli yesterday bade farewell to outgoing Canada and Belgian High Commissioners to Tanzania, Ian Myles and Paul Carter, respectively who visited him at the State House.

The two envoys expressed their appreciation for improved bi-lateral relations between their countries and Tanzania, speaking highly of the government efforts to transform the economy, improve social services and fight corruption.

In another development, the Head of State met and held talks with Burundian Foreign Affairs Minister Ezechiel Nibigira who had delivered the letter from President Pierre Nkurunzinza.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Co-operation Susan Kolimba and Burundian Ambassador to Tanzania Gervais Abayeho.
Jones peddled the bizarre theories that the tragic shootings in 2012 at Sandy Hook were a hoax, and that Hillary Clintons campaign staff ran a child-sex ring out of a pizza restaurant in Washington, D.C. He is a morally repugnant windbag and I dont want to listen to him. But I do want to live in a country where he can spout his nonsense and be seen and dismissed for the detestable jackass he is.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) A couple of health groups have expressed concern at the "misuse" of the public-funded Pradhanmantri Bharatiya Jan Aushadi Pariyojna, a flagship scheme of the Centre to make available quality medicines at affordable prices, for "promotion" of the ruling BJP.

The Jan Swasthya Abhiyan, a health movement, and All India Drug Action Network said it was unfortunate that the labels of drugs dispersed through the Pradhanmantri Bharatiya Jan Aushadi Pariyojna highlights the name of the BJP in saffron colour.

"The Jan Aushadi scheme's website also highlights the first letters of Pradhanmantri Bharatiya Jan Aushadi Pariyojna in saffron. Clearly a government website and products distributed through a public funded scheme are being used to highlight the name of the political party -- the BJP.

"This represents gross misuse of public funds and is a willful disregard of Supreme Court directions on government advertisements," they said in a joint statement.

Observing that the BJP is conflating the government's "achievements" with one political party, the Jan Swasthya Abhiyan urged the Centre to immediately revert to the earlier nomenclature of the Jan Aushadhi Scheme and recall the drug labels highlighting the name of BJP.

It also sought reissuance of medicines without highlighting the name of a particular political party on them and also to change the scheme's logo on the website.

"Further we urge the government to take appropriate steps to strengthen the Jan Aushadhi scheme so that real benefits accrue to a much larger number of patients," they said.

The health groups also said contrary to claims being made, the Jan Aushadi scheme "falls far short of the laudable intent to provide relief to poor patients reeling under the impact of spiralling drug prices".

While there are over 6 lakh chemist outlets in the country, only a little over 3,000 outlets have been rolled out under the scheme, they said.

"This represents just 0.5 per cent of chemist outlets in the country. Reports also suggest that many of the outlets under the scheme face serious stock outs of important medicines.

"It would have been far more desirable if more energy had been expended in strengthening the scheme rather than in finding ways to make the scheme a part of the propaganda campaign of a particular political party," the statement stated. PTI PLB PLB AQS

AQS
Coimbatore, Aug 7 (PTI) A day after the CBI detained three customs officials at the Tiruchirapalli airport for alleged connivance with smugglers, the agency today raided a flat belonging to one of them.

A four-member CBI team searched the flat of Customs Superintendent S Ramakrishnan at Kovaipudur for nearly two hours and reportedly recovered some documents, police said.

The central agency had yesterday detained three customs officials, including an assistant commissioner at the Tiruchirapalli airport.

The assistant commissioner and two customs superintendents were detained after a crack down in which the CBI found that several passengers, who arrived from Singapore yesterday, were cleared by the Customs despite allegedly carrying contraband.

The CBI searches came in the background of regular attempts to smuggle gold, turtles and other items through the Tiruchirapalli airport. PTI NVM APR ANB

ANB
Lankan Prez, US diplomat mourn Karunanidhi's death

Chennai, Aug 7 (PTI) Sri Lankan President Maithripala

Sirisena today mourned the death of DMK chief N Karunanidhi.

"I am deeply saddened by the death of former Chief

Minister and senior political leader Karunanidhi," he said in

a tweet, extending his condolences to the bereaved family and

party cadres.

US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster, in a tweet,

said, "Karunanidhi will be remembered for years of public

service to the state."

"On behalf of the United States Mission in India, I

wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of

former Chief Minister Karunanidhi and the people of Tamil

Nadu," he said. PTI VIJ NVG

BN BN

BN
Oppn dubs Rafale deal a scam, Cong demands setting up of JPC

New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) Dubbing the Rafale fighter jet

deal as a "scam", opposition parties in Lok Sabha today

demanded a probe into it, with the Congress demanding the

setting up of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to

investigate it.

The demand for a JPC was raised in the Lok Sabha by

Congress MP K C Venugopal when he initiated the debate on the

Supplementary Demand for Grants for 2018-19 and the demand for

excess grants for 2015-16.

He said the House should know about the cost of the

Rafale deal and alleged that there was "a major scam".

"We demand a JPC inquiry into this deal," he said.

Objecting to his demand, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey urged

Deputy Speaker M Thambi Durai that Venugopal should place the

evidence before the House before making any "wild allegation".

Later, Trinamool Congress leader Saugata Roy also said

that the Rafale deal was "one of the biggest scandals of

independent India."

"The country is going to lose Rs 2,500 crore due to

Rafale deal," Roy said, while demanding a "full-fledged

enquiry" into the fighter jet deal. PTI JTR BKS

ARC ARC

ARC
Eight arrested for house-breaking thefts in Maharashtra

Thane (Maha), Aug 7(PTI) Eight people were arrested

by the Thane Police in Maharashtra for their alleged

involvement in several cases of house-breaking theft at

various places in the state, an official said.

Acting on a tip-off, the police nabbed an offender

from the Mumbra township here a couple of days back.

Based on the information provided by him, seven others

were arrested in the last two days from Mumbra, Kalyan and

Ulhasnagar areas in Thane, Deputy Commissioner of Police

(Crime) Deepak Deoraj told reporters here last evening.

The eight accused, in the age group of 19 to 38 years,

were allegedly involved in house-breaking thefts in Thane and

also at some places in the neighbouring Mumbai, Navi Mumbai,

Palghar and Pune, the police said.

Items worth Rs 7.85 lakh, including gold and silver

jewellery, two laptops and two motorcycles, were recovered

from them, Deoraj said. PTI COR

GK GK

GK
Sena slams Modi govt over unemployment

Mumbai, Aug 7 (PTI) The Shiv Sena today hit out at the

Modi government saying the ruling BJP had given a pre-poll

promise of creating one crore jobs every year, but in reality

the number of unemployed people was growing by the day.

Referring to Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's swipe at

the Centre over Union minister Nitin Gadkari's "where are the

jobs" remark, the Sena said the opposition party should not

forget that the unemployment scenario during its rule was

equally deplorable.

"There was a news about one lakh fresh jobs being

created through the Ayushman Bharat (national health

protection) scheme. But there was another report which said 24

lakh government posts are lying vacant and three crore youths

are jobless. These two reports highlight the hard reality of

the unemployment situation in the country," the Sena said in

an editorial in its mouthpiece "Saamana" today.

"There is nothing new in these reports, but they show

that nothing has changed during the rule of those who had

promised to create one crore jobs every year. The moves like

demonetisation and roll-out of the Goods and Services Tax

(GST) further affected the revenue of lakhs of people in the

last two years," it added.

It is being said that the Ayushman Bharat scheme would

provide jobs to one lakh people. This is an ambitious scheme

of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which aims to provide a

health cover of Rs 5 lakh per family annually to 10 crore

families, the BJP ally said.

"Under the scheme, around one lakh 'Ayushman Mitra'

will be appointed at both private and government hospitals,

who will work as a bridge between the hospitals and patients.

We only wish that the announcement comes true. The nature of

their job, whether it is of permanent or temporary nature,

their salaries and perks should be specified," the Uddhav

Thackeray-led party said.

Going by the promises given by those in power today,

four crore jobs should have been created in the last four

years. But three crore youths in the country are currently

jobless, it said.

"Union minister Nitin Gadkari, while answering a query

recently said "where are the jobs". Although its context was

different, he has stated a fact. Congress president Rahul

Gandhi taunted Gadkari over his statement. But they should not

forget that during the Congress rule the unemployment

situation was equally bad," the Sena said. PTI MM

NP NP

NP

SDM SDM

SDM
New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) The Jawaharlal Nehru University will be organising its second convocation tomorrow, almost 46 years after it organised its first.

More than 400 students, who have successfully graduated between January 1, 2017, and June 30, 2018, will be conferred with the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), the varsity said.

The chief guest of the convocation, Professor VK Saraswat, Chancellor of JNU and current member of the NITI Aayog, will confer the degrees, they added.

The JNU Students' Union has appealed to the JNU community to boycott the convocation, accusing vice-chancellor Jagadesh Kumar of "muzzling their democratic rights". PTI SLB



ANB

ANB
New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale today appealed to the public to not participate in the August 9 'Bharat Bandh' called by Dalit organisations against the Supreme Court ruling on the SC/ST Act.

In a statement issued today, Athawale appealed to the people to maintain peace, harmony and brotherhood in the country.

His appeal comes a day after the Lok Sabha passed The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill 2018 to overturn a Supreme Court order concerning certain safeguards against arrest under the law.

Yesterday, The Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill 2017, which grants constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes(NCBC), was also passed by the Parliament.

Athawale said the passage of the two bills was a revolutionary step and alleged that the opposition is defaming the government wrongly over this.

He said the government is protecting the rights of the Dalit community and is continuously working towards their welfare under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Dalit groups under the banner of the All India Ambedkar Mahasabha (AIAM) have given a call for 'Bharat Bandh' on Thursday to demand restoration of the provisions of the SC/ST Act which, the Dalit groups allege, were diluted by a Supreme Court ruling of March 20. PTI PLB PLB DIV

DIV
Karunanidhi dead, burial gets mired in legal row

Chennai, Aug 7 (PTI) DMK chief M Karunanidhi, a

colossus in Tamil Nadu politics, poet, columnist and script

writer, who left an indelible imprint on the state's public

life for over five decades, died today, setting the stage for

a late night courtroom drama over where he shall be buried.

The 94-year-old leader breathed his last at the

Kauvery Hospital in downtown Chennai at 6.10 p.m after waging

a grim battle for life for 11 days, the hospital said.

He had not made any public appearance for about two

years due to failing health.

Within minutes of Karunanidhi's death, a huge row

erupted after the state's AIADMK government rejected the

demand of the DMK, its long-standing political rival in state

politics, for land on the famed sands of the Marina beach

where he could be buried.

Wasting no time, DMK's counsel P Wilson and A Sarvanan

rushed to the residence of H G Ramesh, the Acting Chief

Justice of the Madras High Court, with a plea to direct the

state government to revoke its decision denying permission for

Karunanidhi's burial and erection of a memorial to him on the

beach.

Their plea was granted and Justice Ramesh and his

fellow judge S S Sundar began hearing the petition minutes

before midnight.

The judges heard the arguments by counsel for the DMK

and the state government before adjourning the matter around

1.15 a.m for resumed hearing at 8 in the morning.

The DMK counsel wanted to know the legal ground on

which its demand was rejected following which the advocates

for the government pleaded for time till morning to file a

counter affidavit which the court allowed.

In a twist to the late night proceedings,

unprecedented in Tamil Nadu's legal history, two of the

petitioners who had moved the court against late chief

minister J Jayalalithaa's burial at the Marina and

construction of a memorial there, withdrew their applications.

One of them, advocate S Duraisamy, said the claim of

the government that the memorial to Karunanidhi's mentor and

former chief minister C N Annadurai facing the Marina beach,

where the DMK sought land for its leader's burial, was in an

ecologically sensitive zone, was "misleading".

He told reporters outside the Acting Chief Justice's

residence that it was on the banks of the Cooum river close to

the beach but not in the eco-sensitive zone like the memorials

of Jayalalithaa and former AIADMK chief minister the late M G

Ramachandran.

Similarly, K Balu of PMK also withdrew his petition

seeking the court's direction against use of the Marina as a

burial ground.

Earlier in the day, another PIL filed in the Madras

High Court seeking to restrain the Corporation of Greater

Chennai from permitting any burial of bodies on the Marina

beach was dismissed as withdrawn.

Hours before the unsavoury courtroom saga unfolded,

Karunanidhi was declared dead by the hospital where he was

undergoing treatment since his admission on July 28 when his

blood pressure had dipped.

"With deep anguish we announce the demise of our

beloved Kalaignar M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 pm.

Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and

nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond.

"We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest

leaders of India and we share the grief of family members and

fellow Tamilians worldwide," a press release by Dr Aravindan

Selvaraj, Executive Director of Kauvery Hospital, said.

President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra

Modi mourned Karunanidhi's death.

"Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M

Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to

the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers.

Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and

millions of well-wishers," Kovind tweeted.

Modi said Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations

as well as national progress.

"Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar

Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India.

We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker,

accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to

the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," Modi said in a

series of tweets.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi also took to Twitter

to condole Karunanidhi's death.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the

stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades.

In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to

his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for

their beloved leader tonight," he said on Twitter.

Both Modi and Gandhi, besides a host of other leaders

are expected to arrive here tomorrow to pay their last

respects to the departed doyen of Tamil Nadu politics.

Soon after Karunanidhi's death, his son and DMK

working president M K Stalin despatched his emissary and the

party's deputy leader in the state assembly Duraimurugan to

Chief Minister K Palaniswamy requesting him to allot land in

the mausoleum complex of Annadurai.

Soon afterwards, the government issued a statement

saying it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to

several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal

complications."

Hence, the government is prepared to allot a two-acre

site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and

Kamaraj, it said.

Some reports said the government was reluctant about

allotting space for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina as he

was not a sitting chief minister.

Former chief minister M G Ramachandran and his

protegee J Jayalalitha were buried at the Marina beach and

memorials to them were erected there. Both were bitter foes of

Karunanidhi in politics. PTI VGN COR SK

SK SK

SK
Leaders of TN parties pay rich tributes to Karunanidhi

(Eds; rpting after changing name in last para)

Chennai, Aug 7 (PTI) Leaders of various political parties

in Tamil Nadu, including AIADMK and PMK, today condoled the

death of DMK president M Karunanidhi.

AIADMK joint coordinator and Chief Minister K Palaniswami

and party coordinator and Deputy Chief Minister O

Panneerselvam, in a party statement, said that Karunanidhi,

hailing from Tirukuvalai in Nagapattinam district, overcame

many challenges through hard work and elevated himself as a

well-known leader.

"We pray to God to give his family members enough

strength to bear this loss. On behalf of the AIADMK, we extend

our condolences to the bereaved family members", they said.

PMK leader S Ramadoss, his son Anbumani, Amma Makkal

Munnetra Kazhagam leader and sitting MLA T T V Dhinakaran,

CPI(M) State secretary K Balakrishnan RPT K Balakrishnan and

CPI state secretary R Mutharasan also expressed their

condolences. PTI VIJ NVG

APR APR

APR
The EPA also wants to end the waiver granted to California that allows it to impose stricter rules than Washington requires. Even if that might be a reasonable idea, to spare automakers the prospect of having to design cars for two different regulatory regimes, it would ensure years of litigation and create vast uncertainty for the industry  with no guarantee the EPA would prevail in the end.
\R New Delhi, Aug 7 (PTI) Four men were arrested and two minors apprehended in connection with an armed robbery case at west Delhi's Naraina Flyover, the police said today.

The accused were identified as Shambu (32), Jitender (28), Monu (23) and one Raju, they said.

\R On August 2, one Kashish Bansal, a resident of Rohini was going to Gurugram along with his driver Shambhu in his car to deliver Rs 70 lakh to his brother-in-laws friend Saurab Bansal and Deepak Ghatana. He also collected Rs 28.50 lakh cash from Prashant Vihar, said Vijay Kumar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (West).

Around 2.35 pm when they reached the flyover, three people came on a motorcycle and stopped the car. They robbed Bansal at gun point and took the bag containing Rs 70 lakh. The other bag containing the remaining amount was safe, he said.

During investigation, all the known persons of the complainant were examined. The call detail record of the complainant was also analysed, the officer said.

A video footage of the incident was also obtained from a passerby. After seeing the footage, one accused Monu Sharma was identified and arrested.

On his instance, Rs 9.41 lakh in cash. A country-made pistol was recovered from his possession, said the senior officer. On August 6, a juvenile was apprehended and Rs 1 lakh was recovered from him.

During investigation, Rs 8 lakh was also recovered on his instance from his maternal uncle Jotender who was also resisted and his car was seized, the DCP said.

On interrogation, the accused Jitender and the juvenile disclosed about involvement of one Shambhu, the victim's driver.

Shambhu was arrested and Rs 1 lakh was recovered from his house. Another accused juvenile involved was also apprehended and Rs 1.6 lakh as recovered from his possession, he said.

During interrogation, police learnt that Shambhu conspired the plan of robbery with his driver friend Sandeep with the help of accused Rajiv and executed the plan with the other accused. Accused Rajiv and Sandeep are still absconding, he added. PTI AMP ANB

ANB
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Ltd., IQVIA AB, IQVIA AG, IQVIA AG (Mexico Branch), IQVIA AG (UK Branch), IQVIA Adriatic d.o.o. za Konzalting, IQVIA Asia Pacific Commercial Holdings LLC, IQVIA Beteiligungs-gesellschaft mbH, IQVIA BioSciences Holdings LLC, IQVIA CHINAMETRIK INC., IQVIA COMMERCIAL FINANCE INC., IQVIA COMMERCIAL INDIA HOLDINGS CORP., IQVIA COMMERCIAL LICENSING ASSOCIATES LLC, IQVIA COMMERCIAL SERVICES LLC, IQVIA COMMERCIAL TRADING CORP., IQVIA Clinical AB, IQVIA Commercial Deutschland GmbH, IQVIA Commercial GmbH & Co. OHG, IQVIA Commercial I LLC, IQVIA Commercial Software GmbH, IQVIA Commercial Sp. z.o.o., IQVIA Commerical Consulting Sp. z.o.o., IQVIA Consulting Solutions bvba, IQVIA Consulting and Information Services India Private Limited, IQVIA Finance Ireland Designated Activity Company, IQVIA GOVERNMENT SOLUTIONS INC., IQVIA Healthcare QFC branch, IQVIA Hellas Technology Solutions S.A., IQVIA Holdings France SAS, IQVIA IES (UK) Limited, IQVIA IES Brasil Ltda., IQVIA IES Europe Limited, IQVIA IES European Holdings, IQVIA IES Italia S.r.l., IQVIA IES OY, IQVIA IES Overseas Holdings Limited, IQVIA IES Portugal, IQVIA IES Portugal Unipressoal Ltda., IQVIA IES Puerto Rico Inc., IQVIA II Technology Solutions Portugal, IQVIA INC., IQVIA INFORMATION MEDICAL STATISTICS (ISRAEL) LTD., IQVIA Information, IQVIA Information Solutions (China) Co., IQVIA Information Solutions GmbH, IQVIA Informations Solutions France SAS, IQVIA Istanbul Saglik Hizmetler Arastirma ve Danismanlik Limited Sirketi, IQVIA Korea Co. Ltd., IQVIA LTD, IQVIA Market Intelligence LLC, IQVIA Marktforschung GmbH, IQVIA Maroc SARL, IQVIA Mauritius Holdings, IQVIA Medical Communications & Consulting, IQVIA Medical Development (Dalian) Co., IQVIA Medical Education Inc., IQVIA Medical Radar AB, IQVIA Operations France SAS, IQVIA PHARMA Inc., IQVIA Partners AS, IQVIA Pharma Services Corp., IQVIA Pharmaceutical Marketing Services Ltd., IQVIA Phase One Services LLC, IQVIA RDS (India) Private Limited, IQVIA RDS (Pty.) Limited, IQVIA RDS AG, IQVIA RDS Argentina S.A., IQVIA RDS Asia Inc., IQVIA RDS Austria GmbH, IQVIA RDS BT Inc., IQVIA RDS Brasil Ltda., IQVIA RDS Bulgaria EOOD, IQVIA RDS Canada ULC, IQVIA RDS Chile, IQVIA RDS Colombia S.A.S., IQVIA RDS Consulting Inc., IQVIA RDS ESTONIA OU, IQVIA RDS East Asia Pte. Ltd., IQVIA RDS Eastern Holdings GmbH, IQVIA RDS Finland OY, IQVIA RDS France SAS (formerly, IQVIA RDS Funding LLC, IQVIA RDS GesmbH, IQVIA RDS GesmbH Greek Branch, IQVIA RDS Guatemala S.A., IQVIA RDS Holdings, IQVIA RDS Hong Kong Limited, IQVIA RDS ISRAEL LTD., IQVIA RDS Inc., IQVIA RDS Ireland (Finance) Ltd., IQVIA RDS Ireland Ltd., IQVIA RDS Italy Srl, IQVIA RDS Latin America LLC, IQVIA RDS Latvia SIA, IQVIA RDS Magyarorszag Gyogyszerfejlesztesi es Tanacsado Kft., IQVIA RDS Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., IQVIA RDS Moscow, IQVIA RDS Novosibirsk, IQVIA RDS Panama Inc., IQVIA RDS Peru S.r.l., IQVIA RDS Philippines Inc., IQVIA RDS Poland Sp. Zoo, IQVIA RDS Pty. Limited, IQVIA RDS Slovakia s.r.o., IQVIA RDS Spain, IQVIA RDS Spain S.L., IQVIA RDS St. Petersburg, IQVIA RDS Support Sarl, IQVIA RDS Switzerland sarl, IQVIA RDS Taiwan Ltd., IQVIA RDS Transfer LLC, IQVIA RDS UAB, IQVIA RDS UK Holdings Ltd., IQVIA RDS and Integrated Services Belgium NV, IQVIA RDS d.o.o. Beograd, IQVIA SOLUTIONS ASIA PTE. LTD., IQVIA SOLUTIONS CANADA INC., IQVIA SOLUTIONS JAPAN K.K., IQVIA SOLUTIONS OPERATIONS CENTER PHLIPPINES INC., IQVIA SOLUTIONS PHILIPINES, IQVIA SOLUTIONS PHILIPPINES, IQVIA Services Japan K.K., IQVIA Solutions (NZ) Limited, IQVIA Solutions (Pty.) Ltd., IQVIA Solutions Argentina S.A., IQVIA Solutions Australia Holdings Pty. Ltd., IQVIA Solutions Australia Pty. Ltd., IQVIA Solutions B.V., IQVIA Solutions Belgium S.P.R.L., IQVIA Solutions Bulgaria EOOD, IQVIA Solutions Colombia S.A., IQVIA Solutions Consulting Myanmar Company Limited, IQVIA Solutions Denmark AS, IQVIA Solutions Enterprise Management Consulting (Shanghai) Co., IQVIA Solutions Finance B.V., IQVIA Solutions Finance UK I Ltd., IQVIA Solutions Finance UK II Ltd., IQVIA Solutions Finance UK III Ltd., IQVIA Solutions Finance UK V Ltd., IQVIA Solutions Finland OY, IQVIA Solutions Global Holdings UK Ltd., IQVIA Solutions GmbH, IQVIA Solutions HQ Ltd., IQVIA Solutions Holdings (Pty.) Ltd., IQVIA Solutions Hong Kong Limited, IQVIA Solutions Ireland Limited, IQVIA Solutions Italy W.r.l., IQVIA Solutions Kazakhstan LLC, IQVIA Solutions LLC, IQVIA Solutions Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., IQVIA Solutions Norway AS, IQVIA Solutions Pharmaceutical SRL, IQVIA Solutions Portugal, IQVIA Solutions Regional Pte. Ltd., IQVIA Solutions Services Ltd., IQVIA Solutions Sweden AB, IQVIA Solutions UK Investments Ltd., IQVIA Solutions UK Limited, IQVIA Solutions a.s., IQVIA Solutions del Peru S.A., IQVIA Solutions do Brasil Ltda., IQVIA Solutions s.r.o., IQVIA Solucoes de Tecnologia DO Brazil Ltda., IQVIA Staff Services Sp.A., IQVIA TRANSPORTATION SERVICES CORP., IQVIA Technology Services Ltd., IQVIA Technology Solutions Egypt LLC, IQVIA Technology Solutions Finland OY, IQVIA Technology Solutions Poland SP. z.o.o., IQVIA Technology Solutions Romania Srl, IQVIA Technology Solutions S.R.O. Branch Bulgaria, IQVIA Technology Solutions Ukraine LLC, IQVIA Technology Solutions s.r.o., IQVIA Technology and Services AG, IQVIA Tibbi Istatistik Ticaret ve Musavirlik Ltd. Sirketi, IQVIA Trading Management Inc., IQVIA World Publications Ltd., IQVIA Zagreb d.o.o., Iasist Holdco Limited, Iasist Potugal, Iasist SAU Agencia en Chile, Iasist Sociedad Anonima Unipersonal, Impact RX, Infocus Health Limited, Infopharm Ltd., Innovex Holdings I LLC, Innovex Merger Corp., Innovex Saglik Hizmetleri Arastirma ve Danismanlik Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Innovex Saglik Urunleri Pazarlame ve Hizmet Danismanlik Anonim Sirketi, Institute of Medical Communications NCO, Interstatistik AG, Kun Tai Medical Development Hong Kong Limited, Kun Tuo Medical Research & Development (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Laboratorie Novex Pharma Sarl, Laboratorio Commuq Pharma SL, Linguamatics, M&H Informatics (BD) LTD., M-TAG Australia Pty. Ltd., MED-VANTAGE, MG Recherche, Mecurial Insights Holding Pty. Ltd., Mecurial Insights Pty. Ltd., Mercados Y Analisis, Meridian Research Vietnam Ltd., Nordisk Medicin Information AB, Novella Clinical LLC, Novella Clinical Ltd., Novex Pharma Gmbh, Novex Pharma Laboratorio S.L., Novex Pharma Limited, Nuevo Health Pty Ltd, Onkodatamed GmbH, Operaciones Centralizadas Latinoamericana Limitada, Optimum Contact Limited, Outcome Sciences LLC, PILGRIM SOFTWARE HOLDING B.V., POLARIS MANAGEMENT PARTNERS LLC, POLARIS SOLUTIONS LLC, PR Editions S.A.S., PT IMS Health Indonesia, PT Quintiles Indonesia, Penderwood Limited, PharmARC Consulting Services GmbH, PharmARC Inc., Pharma Deals Limited, Pharma Strategy Group Ltd., Pharmadata s.r.o., Pharmaforce, Pilgrim Quality Solutions EMEA BV, Pilgrim Software Asia PVT, Polaris Solutions BV, Polaris Solutions Ltd., Primeum IQVIA SAS, Privacy Analytics Inc., Professional Pharmaceutical Marketing Services (Pty.) Ltd., Pygargus AB, Q Squared Solutions (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Q Squared Solutions (India) Private Limited, Q Squared Solutions (Quest) LLC, Q Squared Solutions (Quest) Limited, Q Squared Solutions (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Q Squared Solutions B.V., Q Squared Solutions BioSciences LLC, Q Squared Solutions China (Quest) Limited, Q Squared Solutions China Limited, Q Squared Solutions Expression Analysis LLC, Q Squared Solutions Holdings B.V., Q Squared Solutions Holdings LLC, Q Squared Solutions Holdings Limited, Q Squared Solutions K.K., Q Squared Solutions LLC, Q Squared Solutions Limited, Q Squared Solutions Proprietary Limited, Q Squared Solutions Pte. Ltd., Q Squared Solutions S.A., Q2 Metrics, Q2 Solutions, QIMS Pharma Services SA DE CV, QUINTILES MEXICO, QUINTILESIMS EUROPEAN HOLDINGS II C.V., Qcare Site Services, Quintiles B.V., Quintiles Benin Ltd., Quintiles Clindata (Pty.) Limited, Quintiles Clindepharm (Pty.) Limited, Quintiles Clinical and Commercial Nigeria Limited, Quintiles Commercial ApS, Quintiles Commercial Germany GmbH, Quintiles Commercial Rus LLC, Quintiles Commercial South Africa (Pty) Limited, Quintiles Commercial US. Inc., Quintiles Costa Rica S.A., Quintiles Czech Republic, Quintiles Denmark, Quintiles East Africa Limited, Quintiles Egypt LLC, Quintiles Enterprise Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Quintiles Finance Sarl, Quintiles Finance Uruguay, Quintiles GmbH, Quintiles Holdings S.a.r.l., Quintiles IMS European Holdings C.V., Quintiles Lanka Private Limited, Quintiles Latin America Inc., Quintiles Luxembourg European Holding, Quintiles Luxembourg European Holding S.a.r.l., Quintiles Luxembourg France Holdings SARL, Quintiles Medical Development (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Quintiles Netherlands, Quintiles New Zealand, Quintiles Norway, Quintiles Phase One Clinical Trials India Private Limited, Quintiles Russia LLC, Quintiles S.a.r.l., Quintiles Site Services, Quintiles South Africa (PTY.) Limited, Quintiles UK (Japan Holdings) Limited, Quintiles Ukraine, Quintiles Vietnam, Quintiles West Africa Limited, RX India LLC, Radar Acquisition Blocker, Redsite Limited, Reportive SA, STI Technologies Limited, Schwarzeck Verlag GmbH, Secureconsent, Shanghai IMS Market Research Co. Ltd., Source Informatics Limited, Spartan Leasing Corporation, Statfinn Oy, Strategique Sante, THE AMUNDSEN GROUP, Targeted Molecular Diagnostics, Tarius A/S, Temas Srl - Societa Unipersonale, TforG Connect BVBA, Themis Limited, UAB IQVIA Commercial, VALUEMEDICS RESEARCH, VCG&A Inc., and iGuard.
The following companies are subsidiares of BorgWarner: B80 Italia S.r.l., BERU AG, BW El Salto S.A. De C.V., BWA Receivables Corporation, BWA Turbo Systems Holding LLC, Borg Warner Europe Holdings (PDS) B. V., BorgWarner (China) Investment Co. Ltd., BorgWarner (Reman) Holdings L.L.C., BorgWarner (Thailand) Limited, BorgWarner Aftermarket Europe GmbH, BorgWarner Alternators Inc., BorgWarner Arden LLC, BorgWarner Arnstadt RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Asia Inc., BorgWarner Automotive Asia Limited, BorgWarner Automotive Components (Beijing) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Jiangsu) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Automotive Components (Wuhan) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Brasil Ltda., BorgWarner Chungju Co. LLC, BorgWarner Comercial e Distribuidora de Pecas para Veiculos Automotores Ltda., BorgWarner Comercializadora PDS S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner Componentes PDS S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner Cooling Systems (India) Private Limited, BorgWarner Cooling Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Diversified Transmission Products Services Inc., BorgWarner Drivetrain Engineering GmbH, BorgWarner Drivetrain Management Services de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Drivetrain de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Electric Motors L.L.C., BorgWarner Emissions Systems (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Emissions Systems (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Emissions Systems Holding LLC, BorgWarner Emissions Systems India Private Limited, BorgWarner Emissions Systems LLC, BorgWarner Emissions Systems Portugal Unipessoal LDA, BorgWarner Emissions Systems Spain S.L.U., BorgWarner Emissions Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner Emissions Talegaon Private Limited, BorgWarner Engineering Ketsch RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Engineering Kibo RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Esslingen GmbH, BorgWarner Europe GmbH, BorgWarner Europe Holding S.a. r. l., BorgWarner Gateshead Limited, BorgWarner Germany Holding GmbH, BorgWarner Germany Holding Services GmbH, BorgWarner Germany REH GmbH, BorgWarner Germany REM GmbH, BorgWarner Germany Verwaltungs GmbH, BorgWarner Global Holding S.a. r. l., BorgWarner Heidelberg I RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Heidelberg II RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Heidelberg REH GmbH, BorgWarner Heidelberg REM GmbH, BorgWarner Holding Inc., BorgWarner Holdings Limited, BorgWarner Hungary Kft., BorgWarner IT Services Europe GmbH, BorgWarner India Holdings Inc., BorgWarner Investment Holding Inc., BorgWarner Ithaca LLC, BorgWarner Ketsch Plant RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Ketsch REH GmbH, BorgWarner Ketsch REM GmbH, BorgWarner Kft., BorgWarner Kibo RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Korea Holdings (PDS) B.V., BorgWarner Korea Holdings LLC, BorgWarner Korea LLC, BorgWarner Limited, BorgWarner Ludwigsburg GmbH, BorgWarner Ludwigsburg RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Markdorf Plant RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner Markdorf REH GmbH, BorgWarner Markdorf REM GmbH, BorgWarner Massachusetts Inc., BorgWarner Mauritius Holdings Ltd., BorgWarner Mexico Holding BV, BorgWarner Mexico Holdings II LLC, BorgWarner Mexico Holdings LLC, BorgWarner Morse Systems India Private Limited, BorgWarner Morse Systems Italy S.r.l., BorgWarner Morse Systems Japan K.K., BorgWarner Morse Systems Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner Muggendorf RE GmbH & Co. KG, BorgWarner NW Inc., BorgWarner Netherlands Holdings (PDS) B.V., BorgWarner Oroszlany Kft., BorgWarner PDS (Anderson) L.L.C., BorgWarner PDS (Changnyeong) LLC, BorgWarner PDS (Indiana) Inc., BorgWarner PDS (Livonia) Inc., BorgWarner PDS (Ochang) LLC, BorgWarner PDS (Thailand) Limited, BorgWarner PDS (USA) Inc., BorgWarner PDS Brasil Produtos Automotivos Ltda., BorgWarner PDS Irapuato S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner PDS Mexico Holdings S. de R.L. de C.V., BorgWarner PDS Technologies L.L.C., BorgWarner Poland Sp. z o.o., BorgWarner Pyongtaek LLC, BorgWarner Romeo Power LLC, BorgWarner Rzeszow Sp. z o.o., BorgWarner Shenglong (Ningbo) Co. Ltd., BorgWarner South Asia LLC, BorgWarner Southborough Inc., BorgWarner Spain Holding S.L.U, BorgWarner Sweden AB, BorgWarner Systems Lugo S.r.l., BorgWarner Thermal Systems Inc., BorgWarner Thermal Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner TorqTransfer Systems Beijing Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Tralee Ltd., BorgWarner Transmission Products LLC, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Arnstadt GmbH, BorgWarner Transmission Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Korea LLC, BorgWarner Transmission Systems Tulle S.A.S., BorgWarner Trustees Limited, BorgWarner Turbo & Emissions Systems France S.A.S., BorgWarner Turbo Systems Engineering GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems LLC, BorgWarner Turbo Systems Worldwide Headquarters GmbH, BorgWarner Turbo Systems of Michigan Inc., BorgWarner Turbo and Emissions Systems de Mexico S.A. de C.V., BorgWarner UK Financing Ltd., BorgWarner UK Holding and Services Ltd., BorgWarner US Holding LLC, BorgWarner USA Industries L.L.C., BorgWarner United Transmission Systems Co. Ltd., BorgWarner Waterloo Inc., BorgWarner Wrexham Limited, Cascadia Motion LLC, Creon Insurance Agency Limited, Delphi Technologies, Dytech ENSA, Gustav Wahler GmbH u. Co. KG, Haldex, Kuhlman LLC, Kysor Europe Limited, M. & M. Knopf Auto Parts L.L.C., NSK-Warner (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., NSK-Warner K.K., NSK-Warner Mexico S.A. de C.V, NSK-Warner U.S.A. Inc., New PDS Corp., Old Remco Holdings L.L.C., Old Remco International Holdings L.L.C., Remy International, SeohanWarner Turbo Systems LLC, Sevcon, Sevcon New Energy Technology (Hubei) Company Limited, and Transmission Systems AutoForm LLC.
Oasis Petroleum Inc., an independent exploration and production company, focuses on the acquisition and development of onshore unconventional oil and natural gas resources in the United States. It operates through Exploration and Production(E&P), and Midstream segments. The E&P segment engages in the acquisition and development of oil and gas properties. The Midstream segment offers midstream services, such as natural gas gathering, compression, processing and, gas lift supply; crude oil gathering, terminaling, and transportation; produced and flowback water gathering, and disposal; and water distribution. As of December 31, 2020, the company had 401,766 net leasehold acres in the Williston Basin; and 24,396 net leasehold acres in the Permian Basin, as well as approximately 152.2 million barrels of oil equivalent of estimated net proved reserves. The company sells its crude oil and natural gas to refiners, marketers, and other purchasers that have access to pipeline and rail facilities. Oasis Petroleum Inc. was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

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Washington

The United States reimposed stiff economic sanctions on Iran Monday, ratcheting up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after President Donald Trump pulled the U.S. out of the international accord limiting Iran's nuclear activities.

Trump declared the landmark 2015 agreement had been "horrible," leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

Iran accused the U.S. of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by the Obama administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest. European allies said they "deeply regret" the U.S. action.

Trump said in a statement, "We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation."

A first set of U.S. sanctions that had been eased under the accord were going into effect at one minute past midnight under an executive order signed by Trump. Those sanctions affect financial transactions that involve U.S. dollars, Iran's automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

A second batch of U.S sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

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Trump warned that those who don't wind down their economic ties to Iran "risk severe consequences."

Despite Trump's claims, the accord "is working and delivering on its goal" of limiting Iran's nuclear program, said a statement by European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

The European Union issued a "blocking statute" Monday to protect European businesses from the impact of the sanctions.
CMA FEST

ABC, 8 p.m.

Filmed during Nashville's 47th annual CMA Fest in June, this three-hour special showcases country music's hottest acts as they hit the stage during the four-day festival. Don't miss performances by Jason Aldean, Kelsea Ballerini, Dierks Bentley, Brothers Osborne, Kane Brown, Luke Bryan, Luke Combs, Dan + Shay, Brett Eldredge, Florida Georgia Line, Sam Hunt, Dustin Lynch, Midland, Old Dominion, Jake Owen, Jon Pardi, Carly Pearce, Thomas Rhett, Darius Rucker, Blake Shelton, Chris Stapleton, Cole Swindell, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban and Brett Young.

MASTERCHEF: "FRYING TONIGHT"

FOX, 8 p.m.

The top 13 are tasked with making a dish with a deep-fried element. MasterChef turns up the heat on the contestants as the judges cook alongside them.

OUTBACK: "THE DRY SEASON"

PBS, 8 p.m.

The new episode "The Dry Season" explores how Australia's rugged Kimberley region lives during the dry winter between May and October. The vast area is home to some of the world's biggest cattle ranches, and rodeos are a part of life. Off the coast, divers scour the sea floor for oysters that will be "seeded" for pearls. And trackers search the shoreline for impressions left in the rock by dinosaurs of the Late Cretaceous period.

GORDON RAMSAY'S 24 HOURS TO HELL AND BACK: "PATRICK MOLLOY'S"

FOX, 9 p.m.

Gordon Ramsay and his Hell on Wheels crew head to Patrick Molloy's, a California establishment on the brink of disaster. Some intense undercover work unearths a deep-seated feud among the family that owns the bar and restaurant. But can the team turn things around for Patrick Molloy's in just 24 hours?

WONDERS OF MEXICO: "MOUNTAIN WORLDS"

PBS, 9 p.m.

Travel south of the border to discover mountains full of black bears, fiery volcanoes, exquisite birds and millions of monarch butterflies. Mountains dominate Mexico, shaping life and culture in this diverse land.

BATTLEBOTS

Science Channel, 9 p.m.

New Episodes! Catch encore episodes of the robot-fight series Wednesdays on Science Channel if you miss them Fridays on Discovery Channel.

BOOMTOWN BUILDER

DIY Network, 10 p.m.

New Series! Master craftsman Tim McClellan's renovations focus on Arizona mining towns that went bust, leaving behind character-rich buildings aching to be lived in and loved.

REVERIE

NBC, 10 p.m.

Season Finale! The Sarah Shahi- and Dennis Haysbert-led sci-fi drama ends its first season.

Brought to you by the publishers of TV Guide.  TV Guide 2018
ALBANY  A Michigan native is drumming up support from council members to become the capital city's next police chief.

City Common Council members will vote to confirm Mayor Kathy Sheehan's appointment of Eric Hawkins for Albany's police chief on Aug. 21

Before the vote, Council members will get to ask questions of Hawkins, who currently serves as police chief for a Detroit suburb, at a Public Safety Committee meeting. A full meeting will immediate follow to confirm, or deny, Hawkins' appointment.

Both meetings will take place in council chambers on the second floor of City Hall. The meeting will also feature public comments. Elected officials also noted that residents can comment on the planned hiring of Hawkins during the public comment period of the council's next regular meeting, Monday, Aug. 20.

In mid-July, the council approved bumping the police chief's salary to $145,000.

Hawkins, 50, has spent nearly 30 years rising through the ranks of the police department in Southfield, Mich., where he joined the department as a cadet in 1990. In October 2012, Hawkins became police chief for the Michigan city of roughly 72,000 people -- a majority of whom are African-American, according to the 2010 U.S. Census.

By comparison, Albany has a population of about 98,000 where 57 percent are white, 31 percent are black, and the remainder identify as Asian, Pacific Islander or mixed race, according to U.S. Census data.

City leaders say Hawkins was selected for his accomplishments and commitment to community policing.

The Michigan native's resume highlights implementation of a neighborhood watch program, strengthening community relations through citizen- and youth-police academies, and creation of a citizens' advisory board. He also brought various employee training programs to the Southfield department, including sessions touching on cultural competency, implicit bias, lethal force and mental health awareness.

Hawkins will be Albany's second African American chief since John A. Dale was appointed by Mayor Thomas M. Whalen III, in 1989. Since then, the city department has been led by nine different chiefs. All but one of them came from within the department.

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Former acting police Chief Bob Sears took over the role on an interim basis after former Chief Brendan Cox left for another position in January 2017.

Sears decided not to apply for the permanent chief position because he didn't want to uproot his family from their Glenmont home, and retired from the department after 20 years last month.
ALBANY  In some workplaces, a paid week off in early August would be considered a vacation. For Albany County Assistant District Attorney Steven Sharp, it's a form of discipline.

District Attorney David Soares imposed the taxpayer-funded sanction against Sharp a week after the Times Union revealed he secretly worked on appeals cases for high-profile Albany defense attorney Cheryl Coleman.

Sharp, 33, who makes $112,164 a year as bureau chief of the General Felony Unit, was suspended on Tuesday.

In June, Sharp admitted that for four years he did freelance legal work for Coleman, whom Sharp has faced in court on major trials, including the double murder conviction in December of ex-city water employee Edward Mero.

Soares had not been aware of the arrangement between Coleman and Sharp, who was drawing up briefs on appeals. Office prosecutors are not permitted to do outside legal work on criminal cases.

"Assistant District Attorney Steven Sharp was placed on paid leave amid an ongoing inquiry," Cecilia Walsh, a spokeswoman for Soares, said in an email Wednesday. "We will not be providing further details as this matter is ongoing."

Walsh declined to explain why Sharp was suspended this week despite the fact that his freelance work came to light in June.

Sharp's work for Coleman was revealed in a June 21 letter that lawyer Matthew Hug sent to acting state Supreme Court Justice Roger McDonough. Hug is appealing the conviction of Jordan Prusinski of Latham, who was convicted in April of attempted murder for firing 11 shots and striking two people at the corner of Lark and Hamilton streets in July 2017.

Sharp was the prosecutor, while Coleman was Prusinski's defense attorney at trial. In light of their freelance work, Hug asked McDonough to toss the case and appoint a special prosecutor.

"The selection of ADA Sharp to provide appellate services to attorney Coleman's firm is alarming in and of itself," Hug wrote to the judge on July 15. "There are dozens of local lawyers in the criminal defense bar that provide appellate services, many of whom would undoubtedly accept an offer to assist in the writing of appeals. But, instead of choosing any of these available attorneys, attorney Coleman decided to secretly retain ADA Sharp."

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In his affidavit, Sharp commented that Hug's argument "goes beyond the pale in casting aspersions about my character and conduct. At no time did Ms. Coleman gain any advantage during a criminal trial or negotiations or vice-versa. The notion that Ms. Coleman aided me in furtherance of my career is, quite frankly, laughable."

McDonough, who rejected Hug's argument, sentenced the 26-year-old Prusinski to 22 years to life in prison.

Coleman has told the Times Union that Sharp's work was a "limited-in-scope business relationship to a specific end" that included no more than five appeals. She said such legal "ghostwriting" is common, and ethical as long as attorneys disclose the other lawyer's involvement to their client.

Hug's letter to the judge suggested Sharp knew he might wind up in trouble with the district attorney.

"I guess I better get my resume ready," Sharp told Hug, according to the defense lawyer.
GILBOA - People's Action, a national nonprofit, had simple requests for everyone organizing backyard fundraising cookouts last weekend. Bring enough coleslaw, potato salad or pie to feed a crowd, focus on helping immigrant parents separated from their children and no Trump trashing.

Here's the surprise: People's Action is a progressive group, and the cookouts were held primarily in red statesAlabama, Idaho, North Carolina, West Virginia, Iowaor rural counties in blue California and Illinois that express support for President Donald Trump.

People's Action staffer James Munn hosted a cookout in Gilboa in Schoharie County where Trump won 64.5 percent of the votes in 2016, and he invited local Republicans, Democrats and independents.

"It was a deliberate strategy. People's Action wanted to learn more about how people in rural areas felt about family separation, and as progressives, we wanted to find common ground with them," Munn said. "We earned a lot of good will in the rural areas helping farmers during the 1970s and 1980s farm crises, so we knew who to call."

Munn lives in New Rochelle. He called his in-laws, Alison and Tony Emmerich, who live in Gilboa, and offered their house for the cookout.

"My mother-in-law invited her book club as well as a Republican town council member," Munn said. "My father-in-law invited people he knew through different social circles. That's what most cookout hosts did. In Gilboa, we had 20 adults, two kids, a dog and miraculously also some sunshine at our cookout."

The discussion remained cordial even when guests disagreed about deportation and detention in the wake of the Trump administration immigration policy of separating parents from children after they crossed the U.S. southern border. Munn said that everyone who attended felt that families should stay together.

"It is cruel and un-American to threaten and even persecute children as a way to discouraging their parents from seeking sanctuary," Gilboa resident and voter Tony Robbin said via email.

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The cookout guests raised more than $800 for Freedom for Immigrants, a nonprofit that provides bail money for immigrant parents so they can travel to get their children.

Chicago-based People's Action was created when four nonprofits merged together in 2016. Munn said the organization's goal is to hold 100 cookouts across country to raise family reunification money this fall. Saturday and Sunday were a rehearsal for that effort with about 26 towns participating.

"We've only contacted half the cookout organizers to tally up the money raised and we've already got $10,000 and I take that as a very hopeful sign about the heartland," Munn said.
MALTA - Town Board member Timothy Dunn is making sure to steer clear from any impropriety following a discussion about loyalty with the head of Saratoga Countys economic development organization Prosperity Partnership.

Dunn recused himself during discussion over proposals to provide water to Maltaville at Mondays Town Board meeting, wanting to avoid any dealing with the group after an exchange between Dunn and Prosperity Partnership president Marty Vanags that prompted Dunn to self-report an ethics issue.

Out of an abundance of caution I recused myself, Dunn said. My concern was if I was not to recuse myself, anything I did would be seen as politically motivated. This is too important an issue to get bogged down in politics.

Maltaville residents have put up with discolored and foul-smelling water from wells that also easily run dry. In the last three years, the town has made it a priority to find a financially viable solution to bring water to the area, a hamlet north of Round Lake,. The latest proposals include Saratoga Water Services possibly seeking funding for the project through Prosperity Partnership. No action was taken at Monday's meeting.

Dunn, as a private business owner of Dunn Strategy Group, met with Vanags in June to discuss what Dunn thought would be a discussion about Dunn's company working with the Center for Economic Growth to promote an event.

Instead, Vanags used the meeting to discuss how Dunn should be conducting himself as a public official, Dunn said.

Vanags suggested Dunn take, or avoid, certain actions as a Town Board member and chair of Maltas economic development committee as it pertains to my business dealings, Dunn wrote in a letter explaining his reasoning for refunding the $50 contribution Vanags made in 2015 to the Malta board member's campaign.

I adamantly objected to that suggestion, indicating that I draw a bright line between my business and public roles  Dunn wrote. More egregious, you later explicitly stated that due to your $50 contribution and your support of my campaign, I owed you personal loyalty in my public role.

Vanags responded to Dunns letter in writing, sending his own letter to Dunns home address as well as an attachment in an email to Dunns public official email, refuting Dunns claims and giving some of his own.

Let me abundantly clear. I have never sought, nor have I ever asked for, any loyalty, favor, or support from you, which is implied from the tone of your letter, Vanags wrote in a June 19 letter.

He went further to state the intent of the June 12 meeting was to be transparent regarding his frustration at the negative campaign Dunn waged against Vanags and Prosperity Partnership as well as to understand Dunns division attitude and attacks.

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When reached Monday evening, Vanags declined to comment regarding the matter stating it was private correspondence.

Dunn, who has pushed for an open and transparent government and improved ethics in Malta, notified the towns Ethics Committee shortly after the exchange and it was determined no action was necessary, according to an email from committee members.

Prosperity Partnership recently has been criticized for not living up to its promise of creating county jobs. It has been slammed for spending too much money on travel, not following through on projects and not understanding how to properly complete IDA paperwork. Much of the criticism was directed at Vanags.

The county-funded economic development group has been in a tug-of-war with the decades-old Saratoga Economic Development Corp. since the latter private nonprofit was ditched by the county when SEDC refused to allow elected officials on its board.

SEDC President Dennis Brobston explained board members feared theyd have to give favored status to those communities whose supervisors were on the board.

Prosperity Partnerships sole project, Land Remediation, relocated from Troy to Waterford. The Partnerships board chair is Waterford Supervisor John Lawler.
ALBANY  Health insurance premiums will increase about 8.6 percent next year for New Yorkers who purchase their coverage through the individual market, but the state agency that approved that increase wants consumers to know it could have been much worse.

Insurance companies had requested an average individual rate hike of 24 percent next year, about half of which they attributed to the impending federal repeal of the individual mandate, an unpopular provision of Obamacare that required consumers to purchase insurance or pay a penalty.

But Gov. Andrew Cuomo came out hard last week against insurers, accusing them of exploiting uncertainty around the future of the Affordable Care Act in order to justify such large premium hikes. Those hikes would price consumers out of the market and cause it to become even more unstable  an outcome, he claimed, that Republicans currently in charge were hoping to manufacture.

In response, the governor directed the state Department of Financial Services, which approves annual insurance rates, to reject any increase attributed to the repeal. And on Friday it did just that, slashing rate requests on the individual market by 64 percent and on the small group market by 50 percent, saving consumers $314 million and small businesses $279 million, it estimated.

"DFS will not allow the federal government's wrongful repeal of the individual mandate penalty to become a self-fulfilling prophecy to make health insurance unaffordable in New York," said Financial Services Superintendent Maria Vullo.

The repeal doesn't go into effect until 2019.

"(The department) has carefully examined the rates requested by health insurers and scrutinized every factor from an actuarial and market standpoint to ensure that the Trump administration's many efforts to sabotage affordable and comprehensive healthcare coverage do not allow insurers to unfairly profit at the expense of consumers," Vullo continued.

There are roughly 330,000 New Yorkers enrolled in individual commercial health plans, and more than 1 million enrolled in small group plans, which are offered by employers with 100 employees or less.

In the Capital Region, the average premium could shrink as much as 3.2 percent or climb as much as 13.7 percent, according to 2019 rates approved for the area's most popular plans.

Fidelis Care, the region's largest insurer of low-income children and adults, had requested permission to raise premiums 38.6 percent next year. It got approval for a 13.7 percent hike instead.

The insurer did not respond to requests for comment Monday.

MVP Health Care asked to raise individual premiums 6.5 percent next year but only received permission to raise them 1.9 percent. The Schenectady-based insurer also provides coverage on the small group market, and asked to raise premiums there by 7 percent; they were capped at 6.6 percent.

"It will take us some time to determine the impact of the lower increases that were just approved by New York state," said MVP President Chris Del Vecchio on Monday. "The disparity among requested increases and approved rates reflects that everyone in health care is struggling to make sense of an environment of rising costs and great uncertainty."

Medical costs are the primary driver of premium rates. State regulators expect prescription drugs to account for the largest share of these underlying costs in 2019, followed by inpatient hospital stays, visits to specialists, tests, lab work and X-rays, and ambulatory surgery.

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Premiums will be a little cheaper next year for some area residents.

Anyone who bought individual insurance through CDPHP, for example, will see an average reduction of 1.9 percent next year. The Albany-based insurer had originally sought a 5.1 percent increase when it filed its rate request in June.

"The department's decision to reduce our rates is in response to recent risk adjustment data that became apparent subsequent to our rate filing," said Bob Hinckley, chief strategy officer at CDPHP, adding that time will tell how the lower rates affect its market.

CDPHP's small group rates were slashed as well. It wanted to raise premiums there 6.7 percent, but the state capped those rates at 2018 levels.

BlueShield of Northeastern New York is perhaps the only area insurer that got what it wanted: Its parent company, Healthnow New York, asked permission to lower individual premiums by 3.2 percent next year, and the state agreed.

It also sought to lower its small group premiums by about 0.1 percent, but the state is granting a 0.3 percent increase to account for final 2017 risk adjustment data, according to the insurer.
30 W. Oak St., No. 7A, Chicago: $2,450,000 | Listed: Aug. 20, 2021



This three-bedroom home has three full bathrooms, one half-bath and more than 60 feet of floor-to-ceiling windows. The kitchen has white lacquered Poggenpohl upper cabinetry, a cantilevered island and a butlers pantry. Double glass sliding doors from the kitchen and dining rooms lead to a terrace that offers city views and a glimpse of the lake. The primary bedroom features Arabesque wallcovering, a floor-to-ceiling headboard with a built-in hardwood bed, floating lacquered nightstands, automatic custom shades and a crystal pendant light with a shade. This home has marble floors throughout except in the bedrooms, where the floors are wood. An Eco Smart fire feature, a Murano glass light installation in the dining room and a garage parking space complete this home.



Agents: Marissa Gillman Schaefer and Sharon Gillman, Compass,312-560-8400 and 312-925-2700cq



*Some listing photos are virtually staged, meaning they have been digitally altered to represent different furnishing or decorating options.



To feature your luxury listing of $800,000 or more in Chicago Tribunes Dream Homes, send listing information and high-res photos to ctc-realestate@chicagotribune.com.



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Halfmoon

The town joined with the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 446, to recognize National Purple Heart Day in a ceremony on Tuesday at the Halfmoon Veterans Memorial in the Town Park.

National Purple Heart Day, observed each year on Aug. 7, is a time for Americans to remember and honor the brave men and women who were either wounded on the battlefield or paid the ultimate sacrifice with their lives.

The Military Order of the Purple Heart is composed of men and women who have received the Purple Heart. Halfmoon was designated as a Purple Heart Town in 2014.
COHOES  Police arrested a resident of 256 Remsen Street for endangering the welfare of a child, a misdemeanor, after someone shot and killed a man in the home early Sunday morning.

The Cohoes Police Department arrested 24-year-old Shawn M. Rogowski, the resident of the home that was the target of the reported robbery attempt.

"His alleged actions at the time of the incident and evidence of illegal activity in the apartment prior to the incident lead to the charge due to the presence of an infant in the residence when the incident took place," police said in a press release.

The investigation is still ongoing and an update will be provided "in the very near future," police said.

State Police are assisting Cohoes police in the investigation.

A person observing the police presence at the scene Sunday said the shooting incident happened around 4:30 a.m. Police were going in and out of the multiple-unit brick building early Sunday afternoon.

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The male victim was taken to Samaritan Hospital, where he died. Police said the incident appears to be isolated and there is no known threat to the public.

Police have identified neither the victim nor the shooter.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cohoes detectives at 518-233-2146 or the department's tip line at 518-233-2161.
TROY - The Rensselaer County Legislatures usually quiet Democratic minority has erupted in submitting two local laws on immigration and regulating pawn shops regulation plus a resolution on curtailing the use of plastic bags to be considered at the August meeting.

Minority Leader Peter Grimm of Troy said the proposed laws represented months of effort that came together in time to be presented for the County Legislatures Aug. 14 meeting.

The Democrats have worked with the New York Civil Liberties Union Capital Region Chapter on the law to stop profiling by county workers of people receiving services from the county.

The pawn shop proposal is based on a law that was narrowly defeated by the Albany County Legislature.

"The law will undoubtedly help law enforcement retrieve stolen goods that were pawned for cash," said Grimm.

The resolution asking the state Legislature to ban single-use plastic shopping bags. Suffolk County instituted a 5 cents per bag fee to discourage their use.

Republicans took exception to the Democrats proposals.

It seems that the minority legislators are lacking originality, and just mimicking the Albany County Legislature, by proposing many of the same initiatives, County Legislature Chairman Michael Stammel of Rensselaer said.

We will discuss the merits of their resolutions in committee, and act accordingly. As always, we welcome the minority legislators from Troy to be a part of the legislative process," Stammel said.

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What would you expect? Grimm said about Stammels remarks regarding the Democratic initiatives. Grimm added that its good government to draw on positive laws from other governments.

The Republicans hold a commanding 14-5 majority on the County Legislature and often reject the Democrats' initiatives.

The Republicans have introduced a resolution of their own, asking Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, to halt his directive discouraging financial institutions, insurance companies, and banks from doing business the National Rifle Association, fish and game clubs, and other gun-related businesses.

I was alarmed to see a letter from an insurance agent stating that the reason one local fish and game club lost insurance coverage was, 'due to the state of New York discouraging companies licensed in New York from dealing with the National Rifle Association,' Stammel said in a statement.

The county Republicans count on gun owners as a base of support in the county. The passage of the states SAFE Act in 2013 has served as a rallying point.
The main problem is the small building, we cannot accommodate all of the people there, said Mathew, who lives in nearby Buffalo Grove. People are looking for a nursery, a nice sanctuary. If they dont have that, they may look somewhere else. We hope when we get a new building, well have a nice opportunity to witness other people and Jesus.
There's always room for cello, despite what American Airlines says.

A Chicago musician who had bought a seat for her cello was forced off an American flight Thursday in Miami.

Cellist Jingjing Hu's husband, Jay Tang, wrote on Facebook about the incident in a post that has been shared more than 2,400 times.

Tang said he purchased two roundtrip tickets for Hu and her cello directly from American over the phone and told them specifically that one ticket is for the cello as cabin baggage.

"I was told it is [absolutely] allowed and she won't have any problem," he wrote in the post.

The cello is a large, delicate instrument, and Hu's cost $30,000. Checking it as baggage  even in its hard case  wasn't an option.

Tang said in the post that the Chicago-to-Miami leg of the trip was uneventful  the cello was secured in the window seat beside Hu.

But after she pre-boarded for the flight home and strapped in the cello with a safety belt extender that she had requested and received, the airline suddenly had a problem with the instrument.

Hu said flight attendant approached her before the airplane doors closed and told her she would have to get off the plane because "the aircraft is too small for the cello," Tang wrote.

The couple said that a friend traveling with Hu who stayed on the plane noted that after she got off, two people soon took the seats she had occupied.

"Clearly AA is just playing around with customers," Tang wrote on Facebook. "They just kick off passengers when they oversell their tickets using FAA regulations as an excuse."

MORE: Woman suing United, says she was groped on flight

Hu told CBS 2 that after deplaning she asked see the regulations governing traveling on planes and received a printout indicating that "bass violins/fiddles" are not permitted on a 737.

But as all symphony enthusiasts know, there's a significant difference in size between a bass violin the largest string instrument  and a cello.

CBS 2 reported that beneath the rules about bass violins and fiddles, the printout included a passage about cellos: "[A] cello must be assigned a bulkhead window seat on a non-exit row." It goes on to state "This can be in any cabin."

Contributed photo / Not for resale

Hu had to wait until the next day to fly from Miami because there were no more flights with planes larger than the 737.

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American Airlines told NBC 5 Chicago there was a "miscommunication" about whether the cello met the requirements to fit aboard the aircraft.

"We apologize for the misunderstanding and customer relations will be reaching out to her," the statement read.

But Tang was still fuming about the treatment of his wife.

"I don't think we did anything wrong here and I think the way they handled it was humiliating," he told NBC 5.

---

Read Mike Moffitt's latest stories and send him news tips at mmoffitt@sfchronicle.com.

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The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed T.D. has launched an incentive measure for tillage farmers to produce additional feed this Autumn through a financial commitment of up to 2.75 million. The Minister launched the scheme having secured the agreement of the Minister for Finance & Public, Expenditure and Reform Paschal Donohoe T.D.

Referring to the launch Minister Creed said; I am acutely aware of the need to prepare for the winter ahead. I have been actively engaged with the Fodder Group and through their work, maximising production of home grown fodder is a collective priority this autumn. Through this incentive, I am encouraging tillage growers to actively engage in the fodder market.

This measure will provide an incentive of 155 per hectare for tillage growers who grow a temporary crop of short rotation grasses for fodder production over the winter months and 100 per hectare for those growing catch crops such as fodder rape, turnips etc. Currently over 23,000 hectares of catch crops are supported under the Agri-Environment Scheme, GLAS. This additional funding commitment aims to incentivise a doubling of this area.

This year has been a challenging year for both Livestock and Tillage farmers. This measure will support Tillage farmers to supply into what is a strong market for fodder, added Minister Creed. This initiative has been developed following recent meetings with the industry and will also provide a significant additional fodder supply for the livestock sector.

Welcoming the announcement, Mary Newman Julian said; I am delighted with this step in the right direction to help alleviate the anticipated fodder shortage this coming winter and support for farmers in this challenging year. This measure is focused on supporting tillage farmers to maximise additional short-term fodder production

The measure will not apply where land is being taken out of tillage production but encourages temporary production only of fodder by tillage growers. Farmers growing between 3 hectares and 50 hectares of additional temporary forage crops (additional to that already grown under GLAS) will be eligible.

The Minister also highlighted that in response to the very challenging spring for tillage growers, he had secured a temporary flexibility in the three crop rule this spring for arable farmers and following direct contact with the Commission, has secured higher advance payments under Basic Payments and GLAS scheme supports. Additionally, GLAS farmers will be allowed sow Italian Ryegrass as part of their GLAS commitment and avail of earlier use of the crop. These measures are particularly important for the arable sector.
Fresh from the stage at Feile Beag, Thurles band Jester are proving they are a band on the rise following the announcement they have been added to the Electric Picnic line up.

The band earned their spot on the 2FM stage at the festival after taking part in The King Kong Club Battle Of The Bands at the East Side Tavern in Dublin late last month.

The group were named the winners of the coveted slot in front of a large group of supporters who had travelled from Tipperary to cheer on the band.

This latest success follows hot on the heels of the group signing with UK record label Velvet Moron Records. The band scored the major coup, signing on the dotted line with label owner and touring guitar technician for Noel Gallagher and Kasabian Dave White in June.

Dave has worked with the likes of Kasabian, Biffy Clyro and as Noel Gallagher's guitar tech so his knowledge and connections will be a great advantage to the band, Jester's Tommy Maher told the Tipperary Star earlier this year.

Having launched onto the airwaves in the mid 00's, the five piece Tipperary band have built up an impressive touring schedule clocking up appearances at Oxegen and Cois Farriage as well as sharing the stage with the likes of The Blizzards, Mick Flannery and the Fun Lovin' Criminals.

Catch Jester on the 2FM Stage at Electric Picnic on Sunday, September 2.
[August 06, 2018] CHAIN's 2018 AI & Blockchain Innovation Summit concludes successfully in Shanghai

Local industrial park operator Lingang showcases a big landscape in AI SHANGHAI, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2018 AI & Blockchain Innovation Summit was held between August 1 and 2, 2018 at Baoshan Innovation Galaxy, Shanghai. The event was co-hosted by Shanghai Lingang Economic Development (Group) Co., Ltd. and China America Innovation Network (CHAIN), co-organized by Lingang International Innovation Center and Lingang Innovation Galaxy, with the support of the Standing Committee of Baoshan District Peoples' Congress and the government of the district. The summit brought together 36 Chinese and American industry experts as well as over 500 tech leaders, who discussed the future development trends in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, automated driving and blockchain. Distinguished attendees included the founder of Netherlands-based Singularity University Yuri van Geest, research fellows from the Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies, MIT Sloan School of Management senior lecturer and Digital Currency Initiative at MIT's Media Lab senior advisor Michael Casey, as well as the chief scientist and founding director of the State Key Laboratory for Management and Control of Complex Systems of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Fei-Yue Wang. In addition, top executives from a number of well-known companies attended the event, including Roadstar.ai, Shanghai Boling Move Robotics, AutoX, iVision Ventures and Grand View Capital.



China's leading cloud-based acceleration technology companies, who shared his insights into the ways entrepreneurs find an approach to entrepreneurship. "In the global market, Chinese entrepreneurs have identified a set of internet growth patterns that are more suited to user expectations," stated Grand View Capital founding partner Wei Haijun. "To find a positive way to start a business, entrepreneurs need to assess the state of competition in the industry they are eyeing in addition to examining the feasibility of profiting from the value added by the product rather than the product itself," said Cheng Hao, founder of Xunlei Limited, one ofleading cloud-based acceleration technology companies, who shared his insights into the ways entrepreneurs find an approach to entrepreneurship. "In the global market, Chinese entrepreneurs have identified a set of internet growth patterns that are more suited to user expectations," stated Grand View Capital founding partner Wei Haijun. Dr. Tian Yuandong from Facebook's AI Lab noted, "Machine learning is now moving towards the mission of how to make creativity a fundamental component of the process." Boling Move Robotics CEO Zhang Meng gave a presentation on how to create a deep connection between robotics and AI.

Notably, Professor Wang, the chief scientist at the State Key Laboratory and one of the early pioneers in intelligent robotics, autonomous driving and intelligent transportation, shared his knowledge of intelligent science and intelligent industry through a combination of theory and cases. The summit also invited several industry insiders, among them top executives at Pony.ai, Didi, AutoX and Roadstar.ai, to share their views on the hot topic of "autonomous driving". Lingang International Innovation Center acts as the backbone of Shanghai's technology innovation platform, helping companies gain access to resources through collaborations with likeminded companies abroad as a vehicle for bringing in advanced technologies. Lingang Innovation Galaxy is the unit within Lingang Group responsible for executing on the group's strategy for industrial transformation and how that transformation will work hand in hand with China's urbanization policy. As a strong advocate for innovation in technology and intelligent urbanization, Lingang Innovation Galaxy has joined forces with Lingang International Innovation Center to promote the development of industry, innovation, technology and talent at home and abroad, especially in China and the US. Baoshan Innovation Galaxy, the venue for the summit, is the first joint project between Lingang Group and Baoshan District. The project's aim is to create a demonstration district for what a future city in China can look like when innovation in industry serves as a fundamental aspect of the urbanization process, through the provision of and access to a multi-disciplinary and multi-functional ecological platform for the development of technology innovators. By bringing in the valuable experience of Silicon Valley in technology innovation, the summit analyzed and provided solutions to the problems facing technology innovators today, while offering valuable experience and new ways of thinking to China's tech innovators of the future. View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/chains-2018-ai--blockchain-innovation-summit-concludes-successfully-in-shanghai-300692877.html SOURCE Lingang International Innovation Center

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[August 07, 2018] Domesticating Technology is the Key to Simplifying Human Life: Umesh Sachdev

CHENNAI, India, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The young futurist and CEO of Uniphore spoke at TEDx Chennai on how deep tech solutions can increase the ease of living Umesh Sachdev, CEO Uniphore Software Systems, during his TEDx speech highlighted how domesticating technology can help make human life easier. He explained how Uniphore intends to use deep tech solutions to simplify daily human life. He underlined the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the future. While speaking at the platform where the overarching theme of this edition was - 'the next revolution won't be one where we bring out the guns but the one where we bring out our ideas', Umesh said, "We are now domesticating the computing technology to simplify our lives using the power of speech. Imagine a world where a machine talks back the way our friends and family do - in our own language, understanding our own dialect. How much easier life would be? How much simplified our business processes would be? How empowered our technically challenged folks would be? This scenario can be a reality only if machines comprehend human speech the way another human would do." Umesh Sachdev, the co-founder and CEO of Uniphore Software Systems Pvt. Ltd., is a modern-day entrepreneur with patents in Speech Recognition Technologies. His Chennai-based start-up, Uniphore is transforming the man-machine communications using the power of speech with AI and Machine Learning. Its solutions have been unleashing the power of natural speech by creating highly sophisticated service delivery platforms that promise premium consumer service for the past ten years. The innovative and intuitive solutions include Speech Analytics, Virtual Assistant and Voice Biomerics that will change the way enterprises engage their consumers, build loyalty and maintain healthy bottom-line.



The March 2018 edition of TEDx Chennai was hosted at the Sri Muthu Venkat Subha Rao Concert Hall in Chennai. It had speakers from different walks of life speak about ways to bring out the best of social, creative, technological and scientific developments and drive the future forward. TEDx Chennai talk by Umesh Sachdev

About Uniphore Uniphore Software Systems is headquartered in IIT Madras Research Park, Chennai. Uniphore was incubated in IIT Chennai, India in 2008 and currently has offices in India, Singapore and U.A.E with about 100 employees spread across all locations. Uniphore's investors include John Chambers, Kris Gopalakrishnan, IDG Ventures India, India Angel Network, YourNest Angel Fund and Ray Stata. Uniphore has worked with over 70 enterprise customers and served over 4 million end users. Uniphore was recognized by Deloitte as a Technology Fast 500 company in Asia Pacific in 2014 and was also ranked as the 10th fastest growing technology company in India by Deloitte Fast 50 in 2015. Uniphore's Co-founder & CEO, Umesh Sachdev was recognized by the TIME Magazine list of 2016 amongst '10 Millennials Changing the World', and with India's edition of MIT Technology Review's 'Innovators Under 35' for the year 2016. About TEDx (x = independently organized event) In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TED Talks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. About TED TED is a non-profit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading. Started as a four-day conference in California almost 30 years ago, TED has grown to support its mission with multiple initiatives. The two annual TED Conferences invite the world's leading thinkers and doers to speak for 18 minutes on a diverse mix of topics. TED speakers have included Bill Gates, Jane Goodall, Elizabeth Gilbert, Sir Richard Branson, Nandan Nilekani, Philippe Starck, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Isabel Allende and former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown. TED's media initiatives include TED.com, where new TED Talks are posted daily; the Open Translation Project, which provides subtitles and interactive transcripts as well as translations from volunteers worldwide; the educational initiative TED-Ed; and TEDBooks, short e-books on powerful ideas among others. For more details contact:

Amrutha Joseph

amrutha.joseph@hkstrategies.com

+91-8281244284

Account Executive, Client Servicing

Hill+Knowlton Strategies Karthik Kannan

+91-9686612531



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[August 07, 2018] NTT Takes New Steps to Grow Its Global Business, Drive Innovation Going Forward

Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation ( NTT (News - Alert) Corporation) (TOKYO: 9432) is pleased to announce several initiatives to be implemented soon. These steps will help us become more competitive and profitable, and create new ways of serving clients and society through our global business. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180806005721/en/ * NTT DATA will continue to collaborate with other companies in the Group while retaining its present management structure, status as a listed company, management autonomy and brand. Please note: Other subsidiaries such as NTT Docomo, NTT EAST and NTT WEST are not described in this organisational chart. (Graphic: Business Wire) 1. Why we need to transform Our operating companies - NTT Communications, Dimension Data (News - Alert) , NTT DATA, and NTT Security -have continued to evolve and grow their respective capabilities. NTT Group has also been driving collaboration across these operating companies with great success. To date, these activities have resulted in collective revenue outside of Japan of U.S. $20 billion.

The global market is changing fast. We've seen rapid progress in technology innovation; disruption caused by new business models, and the aggressive expansin of innovative competitors. These factors have led to clients' increasing demand for digital transformation. We believe it's an opportunity for us to create new value and increase our presence in the global market.



2. What we plan to do (1) Establish a new holding company focused on global business

We're establishing a new global holding company under NTT Corporation by the third quarter of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2019. This entity will be called NTT, Inc., and Jun Sawada, current CEO of NTT Corporation, will also serve as its CEO. Estimated operating revenue of NTT, Inc. is approximately U.S. $38 billion with U.S. $20 billion already coming from outside Japan (consolidated figures, based on the fiscal year ending March 31, 2018).

By the third quarter of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2019, NTT Communications (News - Alert) , Dimension Data, NTT DATA, NTT Security, and NTTi3 will be transferred to NTT, Inc. and will align together under its new leadership.

While making NTT Group more competitive and profitable, our global governance will also benefit from embracing and integrating our people's diverse talents, skills, and management experience in global markets. The new structure will leverage their expertise to its maximum potential.

In addition, by the second quarter of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2020, we'll consider integrating these businesses - except NTT DATA - into two new businesses. One will look after our global business; the other will cater for our domestic business in Japan.

NTT DATA will continue to collaborate with other companies in the Group while retaining its present management structure, status as a listed company, management autonomy and brand.

(2) Expanding our global R&D capability

Further steps will include creating a new global innovation fund: NTT Venture Capital, L.P. (a limited partnership), which will help us evolve our global innovation. With this new fund, we'll activate investment in high-growth areas such as digital technology.

We'll also intensify our R&D activities in global markets by using a global network of experts from advanced academic research institutions and venture-capital communities around the world. About the global holding company (1)Company name: NTT, Inc.

(2)Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan

(3)CEO: Jun Sawada, current president and CEO of NTT Corporation, will also serve as CEO of NTT, Inc.

(4)Main business activities: Governance and strategic planning of the global business of NTT Group

(5)Capital: JPY600 billion (After the transfer of every subsidiary is completed)

(6)Share holder: Wholly owned by NTT Corporation

(7)Number of employees: Approximately 163,000 employees (consolidated figure)

(8)Schedule: To be established by the third quarter of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2019 About the global innovation fund (1)Fund name: NTT Venture Capital, L.P.

(2)Fund size: Up to U.S. $500 million

(3)Main investment area: High-growth areas such as digital technology. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180806005721/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Starr Acquires Aspen's Aviation Operation

Starr Insurance Companies announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire the renewal rights of Aspen Insurance's aviation business. The value of the aviation book is estimated to be in excess of $50 million in gross written premiums. In conjunction with this agreement, Starr will also manage all underwriting and claims administration on current business, as well as manage the run-off of Aspen's aviation claims and reserves from prior years. This follows Aspen's announcement last week that they will exit the aviation insurance market. "This agreement will provide Aspen customers with a seamless, efficient way to transfer their business to one of the world's leading aviation insurance carriers," said Maurice R. Greenberg, Chairman and CEO, C.V. Starr & Co. Inc. "Starr's aviation clients benefit from our extensive industry experience, world-class underwriting, loss control and our A.M. Best 'A' rated financial strength. The aviation business will continue to be a focus for us for years to come." Starr's aviation group provides a wide range of specialized, tailored insurance programs to aviation companies and their employees around the world, incuding commercial and regional airlines; aircraft and aerospace manufacturers; charter and cargo operations; corporate fleets; private pilots and light aircraft; aviation service providers; and airports and fixed-base operators.



About Starr Insurance Companies Starr Insurance Companies (or Starr) is a marketing name for the operating insurance and travel assistance companies and subsidiaries of Starr International Company, Inc. and for the investment business of C. V. Starr & Co., Inc. and its subsidiaries. Starr is a leading insurance and investment organization with a presence on five continents; through its operating insurance companies, Starr provides property, casualty, and accident and health insurance products as well as a range of specialty coverages including aviation, marine, energy and excess casualty insurance. Starr's insurance company subsidiaries domiciled in the U.S., Bermuda, China, Hong Kong, Singapore and U.K. each have an A.M. Best rating of "A" (Excellent). Starr's Lloyd's syndicate has a Standard & Poor's rating of "A+" (Strong).

Visit us at www.starrcompanies.com or follow us LinkedIn and Twitter. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180806005671/en/

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The Visiting Nurse Association will on hand with its mobile health clinic to do school physicals and Worship Church will be on hand with a free clothes closet that will feature school uniforms and new and gently used clothes and shoes, according to organizers.
[August 07, 2018] BigCommerce Appoints European Leadership Team to Accelerate Expansion

BigCommerce, the leading ecommerce platform for fast-growing and established brands, today announced Mark Adams has joined the company as vice president and general manager for Europe. Capitalizing on his 15+ years of ecommerce industry experience, Adams will lead the company's international expansion throughout Europe, including day-to-day management of the company's newly-opened office in London. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005061/en/ Mark Adams, European vice president and general manager for BigCommerce (Photo: Business Wire) "Mark's extensive domain expertise and familiarity with the European market will be invaluable as we explore avenues to maximize our service to customers and partners," said Brent Bellm, CEO for BigCommerce. "As we begin to scale our first European office, I'm also confident that Mark's leadership will ensure consistency with our values and vision to deliver the world's best ecommerce platform globally for both B2C and B2B merchants." Adams joins BigCommerce from eComp Consulting, the IT and ecommerce consulting agency he co-founded that helped notableretailers such as Aldi, Long Tall Sally, Cotswold Company and Andertons Music Co select, integrate and launch their ecommerce platforms. Previously, he ran ecommerce design and solution agency Portaltech, which grew to be the top global agency for Hybris before it became part of SAP (News - Alert) . Adams and his co-founders eventually led Portaltech through a successful acquisition process and transitioned the company to be a global leading systems integration firm.



"Retail businesses the world over are looking to invest in technologies that enable their digital transformation while reducing cost and complexity," said Adams. "BigCommerce's customer-first approach, open SaaS (News - Alert) model and commerce as a service initiatives make it the ideal choice for our merchants' growth. I'm excited to serve our customers and partners throughout Europe and help accelerate their success." Joining Adams, the company also announced the appointment of Deepak Anand as director of European business development. A seasoned sales leader in ecommerce and payment technologies, Anand previously served as U.K. general manager for ecommerce platform Shopware. Earlier in his career, Anand also held a variety of leadership and managerial positions at a number of commerce tech companies including Magento and PayPal (News - Alert) .

"BigCommerce believes in the power of community, and it's this commitment to empowering partners to achieve more that makes it such a unique platform," said Anand. "Digital transformation represents a massive opportunity for growth, and together with our partners, we can provide merchants the best-in-class technologies and services necessary to bring their brand vision to reality in a more globalised way." BigCommerce's European customers include thousands of fast-growth companies as well as industry-leading brands, including Ben & Jerry's, Bliss, Ford (News - Alert) , Olive, Sharp and Skullcandy. Both Adams and Anand will focus on expanding the company's existing ecosystem in the region through the acquisition of new customers, as well as expanding partnerships with ecommerce designers, development agencies and technology providers. About BigCommerce BigCommerce is the world's leading cloud ecommerce platform for established and rapidly-growing businesses. Combining enterprise functionality, an open architecture and app ecosystems, and market-leading performance, BigCommerce enables businesses to grow online sales with 80% less cost, time and complexity than on-premise software. BigCommerce powers B2B and B2C ecommerce for more than 60,000 brands, 2,000+ mid-market businesses, 30 Fortune 1000 companies and industry-leading brands, including Assurant, Ben & Jerry's, Paul Mitchell, Skullcandy, Sony and Toyota. For more information, visit www.bigcommerce.com. BigCommerce is a registered trademark of BigCommerce Pty. Ltd. Third-party trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005061/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Visa Invests in Behalf to Support Small Business Financing

Visa (NYSE: V) today announced an investment and partnership with Israeli start-up, Behalf, to support small business growth through easy-to-access capital and financing. Behalf provides working capital solutions for small businesses and flexible financing for business purchases. As part of Visa's investment in Behalf, Visa will offer Behalf's small-business clients a tokenized Visa Virtual Card, a credit-based payment solution that gives businesses instant financing for their business purchases. The Visa Virtual Card will initially be offered in the United States, with a plan to expand to other markets in the coming months. This partnership supports Visa's global strategy to extend its products and capabilities to small businesses through collaborations with start-ups and FinTechs that help redefine and enhance the payments experience. It is also part of Visa's commitment to invest up to $100M in FinTechs, as announced in June 2018, by Visa's CEO, Europe, Charlotte Hogg, at the Money 20/20 conference in Amsterdam. "Behalf has demonstrated a commitment to expanding the purchasing power of small businesses by using digital payments to offer faster, more convenient and secure experiences," said David Simon (News - Alert) , global head of small business and medium enterprises for Visa. "This partnership is another great example of how Visa partners with FinTech companies to help improve digital experiences and bring new solutions to market in order to overcome common small business challenges." "The Behalf platform offers affordable, on-demand purchase financing. Our network of B2B merchants can fit Behalf seamlessly into their eCommerce flow, receive payment immediately and provide their business customers with more buying power and flexible payment options at checkout," said Benjy Feinberg, Behalf's chief executive officer. "We are proud to partner with Visa with the goal of making purchases easier. I'm excited by the opportunities ahead." Shahar Friedman, acting general manager for Visa in Israel, said: "Small businesses are the backbone of the global economy, and Visa is committed to enabling new payment experiences for these important customers. This partnership is a result of a close collaboration between the Visa Innovation Studio Tel Aviv and the dynamic Israeli start-up ecosystem to bring the power of the VisaNet global network to promising young companies in Israel such as Behalf." Behalf is the first investment made by Visa in an Israeli company. It follows the Sprin 2018 launch of the Visa Innovation Studio in Tel Aviv.



For an additional look into how small businesses are operating in today's era of digital commerce, Visa and a consortium of key industry organizations recently released Digital Transformations of SMBs: The Future of Commerce, a first-of-its-kind look at the opportunities and challenges small and medium size business (SMBs) owners face in an increasingly digital world. About Visa Inc.

Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) is the world's leader in digital payments. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, reliable and secure payment network - enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. Our advanced global processing network, VisaNet, provides secure and reliable payments around the world, and is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second. The company's relentless focus on innovation is a catalyst for the rapid growth of connected commerce on any device, and a driving force behind the dream of a cashless future for everyone, everywhere. As the world moves from analogue to digital, Visa is applying our brand, products, people, network and scale to reshape the future of commerce. For more information, visit (www.visaeurope.com), the Visa Vision blog (vision.visaeurope.com), and @VisaInEurope. About Behalf Founded in 2012, Behalf is a financing provider that facilitates commerce between business to business merchants and their business customers. Driven by data and technology, Behalf allows merchant partners to offer business customers instant credit and flexible payment terms at the point of sale. Once qualified, Behalf customers can use their credit facility to fund purchases with virtually any merchant. Behalf has offices in Tel Aviv and New York City. Behalf has been recognized as a "Rising Star" among Deloitte's (News - Alert) Technology Fast 50, was named "Best Online Business Lender" at the 2016 Tradestreaming Awards and was chosen as one of the 10 Best Tech Startups in NYC in 2019 by TheTechTribune. For more information on how Behalf is transforming the way businesses buy and sell, visit www.behalf.com. This article contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that relate to, among other things, Visa's future operations, prospects, developments, strategies, business growth. Forward-looking statements generally are identified by words such as "believes," "estimates," "expects," "intends," "may," "projects," "could," "should," "will," "continue" and other similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact could be forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made, are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our control and are difficult to predict. We describe risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, any of these forward-looking statements in our filings with the SEC (News - Alert) . Except as required by law, we do not intend to update or revise any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005159/en/

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[August 07, 2018] HGC acquires a majority stake in GTMH, a leading network service provider in Myanmar

HONG KONG, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- HGC Global Communications Limited (HGC), a full-fledged fixed-line operator and ICT service provider with extensive local and international network coverage and infrastructure, is pleased to announce that on 3 August 2018 a conditional share purchase agreement was signed, in the presence of Consul-General of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and representatives from the Hong Kong Macau and Myanmar Chamber of Commerce & Industry (HKMMCCI) in Hong Kong, between a fellow subsidiary of HGC and the shareholders of Golden TMH Telecom Company Limited (GTMH), whereby HGC Group will effectively become the majority shareholder of GTMH on closing of the transaction. The closing of the transaction is subject to the fulfilment of certain conditions precedent, including, among others, the approval from the local regulators. HGC shall make another announcement when the transaction is completed. HGC to become one of the first Hong Kong based telecommunication companies to tap into and invest in the Myanmar market Myanmar is one of the fastest growing telecommunications markets in Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Riding on the huge opportunities and potential to develop business in the market, HGC is keen on further extending its success in the Hong Kong local market into Myanmar. Both Consul-General of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and HKMMCCI welcome HGC's investment in becoming one of the first Hong Kong based telecommunication companies to tap into and invest in the Myanmar market. On the other hand, the HKSAR government supports in promoting co-operation with ASEAN were also demonstrated by the visit of Chief Executive Carrie Lam to Myanmar last September. It is expected that HGC and GTMH shall bring synergy to the telecommunications development in Myanmar GTMH is a leading communications and network service provider in Myanmar, equipped with one of the most complete telecommunications service offerings in the market, while HGC acts as a pioneer in capturing untapped telecom business in South East Asia, helping to pave a gateway for local businesses to the international economy to mee the recent trend of globalisation and digitalisation. The agreement marks the first overseas expansion of HGC's local fixed-line services business post-acquisition by I Squared Capital and enables the seamless extension of its coverage in Myanmar.



As a leading international carrier and ICT service provider, with deep expertise and experience, HGC can deliver a full suite of comprehensive end-to-end solutions to local and overseas corporations and operators in Myanmar. The investment in GTMH will also help Myanmar become a significant platform for international carriers and corporate customers to take advantage of opportunities to expand into the addressable market of neighbouring countries. Mr. Andrew Kwok, Chief Executive Officer of HGC said, "HGC has been in collaboration with GTMH since 2014. With our experience and success in Hong Kong and international business, we believe that the investment will bring more opportunities to HGC and GTMH as well as the telecommunications industry of Myanmar. The investment once again showcases a successful example of our determination and ambition to extend our business outside Hong Kong as well as to strengthen our position in the region."

Mr. Alexis Delevaux, CEO of GTMH said, "We are pleased to announce the news and we believe that the acquisition can provide a more comprehensive and broader portfolio of telecommunications services to local corporate and customers. Riding on HGC's experience and strong international connectivity as well as its success in Hong Kong local business, our business can further expand locally and globally. The agreement will not only assist in the deployment of the upcoming influential projects in Yangon and key regions in the country but also support and boost Myanmar in further expanding the telecommunications industry and reinforce the internet and economic development eventually." Ms. Myat Thuzar Than, Consul-General of Consulate General of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar in Hong Kong said, "The agreement between HGC and GTMH is a breakthrough to the telecommunications industry in Myanmar and also a huge boost for the economic development for the country as well as ASEAN in long term. We are pleased that the potential and bright prospects of Myanmar are recognised by a leading global carrier and I believe this can bring both companies and the economies a great success."

About HGC Global Communications Limited HGC Global Communications Limited (HGC) is a leading Hong Kong and international fixed-line operator. The company owns an extensive network and infrastructure in Hong Kong and overseas and provides various kinds of services. It provides telecom infrastructure service to other operators and serves as a service provider to corporate and households. The company provides full-fledged telecom, data centre services, ICT solutions and broadband services for local, overseas, corporate and mass markets. HGC owns and operates an extensive fibre-optic network, four cross-border telecom routes integrated into tier-one telecom operators in mainland China and connects with hundreds of world-class international telecom operators. HGC is one of Hong Kong's largest Wi-Fi service providers, running over 29,000 Wi-Fi hotspots in Hong Kong. The company is committed to further investing and enriching its current infrastructure and, in parallel, adding on top the latest technologies and developing its infrastructure services and solutions. HGC is a portfolio company of I Squared Capital, an independent global infrastructure investment manager focusing on energy, utilities and transport in North America, Europe and selected fast-growing economies. To learn more, please visit HGC's website at: www.hgc.com.hk View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hgc-acquires-a-majority-stake-in-gtmh-a-leading-network-service-provider-in-myanmar-300692985.html SOURCE HGC Global Communications Limited (HGC)

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[August 07, 2018] Research From Braiform Highlights Potential Damage of Clothes Hangers to the Environment

SHEFFIELD, England, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Research from Braiform, the world's largest re-user and recycler of garment hangers, has shown that clothes hangers can have just as detrimental an impact on the environment as plastic bags, straws and bottles. Clothes hangers are often overlooked in the debate about plastic waste within the retail sector. Yet with potentially tens of billions of clothes hangers ending up in landfills annually, their impact on the environment is significant. The research by Braiform, verified by the Carbon Trust, found that re-using a hanger nine times reduces carbon emissions by a massive 79% (when compared to the single use model). The environmental benefits of this saving could be significant if all retailers took part in a hanger re-use program. Braiform has a truly global footprint and already helps its customers to re-use over 1 billion hangers every year. This process also leads to savings of more than 35,000 metric tonnes of plastic materials from going to waste and entering landfill, as well as importantly reducing costs for the retailers. As the war on single use plastics intensifies, Braiform's hangers are being re-used on average nine times across the world and the business has partnerships with prominent high stree fashion retailers and global brands.



The CO2 savings of re-using 1 billion hangers per year represents: The same amount of CO2 generated from manufacturing 10.6 billion plastic straws

The same amount of CO2 it takes to fly around the world 19 times

The same as removing more than 9000 black cabs from the road every year

The same amount of CO2 generated from manufacturing over 4 billion plastic bags Dr Jim Collingham, Head of Re-use Operations Braiform, commented:

"We hope that this research helps bring plastic hangers into the wider public debate about the impact on our environment of single use plastics. By adopting a more circular economy model, retailers can become more sustainable which is better for both the environment and their customers. "As the environmental costs associated with single-use plastics and waste gain wider public awareness, retailers have started to address these key challenges. Actions to improve retail's carbon footprint have rightly taken place, from plastic bags to plastic straws but there is still a long way to go." About Braiform Braiform's mission is to change the global retail industry for good, by offering garment hangers and packaging solutions that are better for business - and the environment. Braiform's UK Re-use Centre is located in Sheffield (with other facilities located in USA, China, Sweden, Turkey, Australia and UAE) and the Company is the largest global supplier of re-usable clothes hangers to high street retailers. They supply over 2 billion items annually to well-known global retailers, re-using over a billion hangers each year. Braiform is the only global hanger company focused on re-use and their business model, as well as their ethos, is aligned with this. Committed to Sustainability The Carbon Trust has certified Braiform's Hanger Re-Use Program as a footprint model, demonstrating that re-use in the UK delivers carbon reductions. Braiform is an active member of the UK Plastics Pact and Sustainable Apparel Coalition. They work closely with Ellen Macarthur Foundation to develop circular business models that will help transition into a restorative and regenerative economy.

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[August 07, 2018] Tunable Diode Laser Analyzer (TDLA): Global Market Outlook (2018-2027) by Gas Analyzer Type, Methodology, End User and Geography - ResearchAndMarkets.com

The "Global Tunable Diode Laser Analyzer (TDLA) Market Analysis & Trends - Industry Forecast to 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Global Tunable Diode Laser Analyzer (TDLA) Market is poised to grow strong during the forecast period 2017 to 2027. Some of the prominent trends that the market is witnessing include favorable initiatives and regulations imposed by the government regarding industrial emissions and increasing process automation in various industries. Based on gas analyzer type, the market is segmented into ammonia (NH3) analyzer, moisture (H2O) analyzer, CXHX analyzer, oxygen ( O2 (News - Alert) ) analyzer, COX analyzer, HX analyzer and other gas analyzer types. By methodology, the market is classified into extractive and in-situ. Depending on end user, the market is divided into chemical & pharmaceutical, metal & mining, power, semiconductor, cement, fertilizer, oil & gas, pulp & paper, healthcare and other end users. Report Highlights



The report provides a detailed analysis on current and future market trends to identify the investment opportunities

Market forecasts till 2027, using estimated market values as the base numbers

Key market trends across the business segments, Regions and Countries

Key developments and strategies observed in the market

Market Dynamics such as Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities and other trends

In-depth company profiles of key players and upcoming prominent players

Growth prospects among the emerging nations through 2027

Market opportunities and recommendations for new investments Key Topics Covered 1 Market Outline

2 Executive Summary 3 Market Overview 4 Tunable Diode Laser Analyzer (TDLA) Market, By Gas Analyzer Type 5 Tunable Diode Laser Analyzer (TDLA) Market, By Methodology 6 Tunable Diode Laser Analyzer (TDLA) Market, By End User 7 Tunable Diode Laser Analyzer (TDLA) Market, By Geography 8 Key Player Activities 9 Leading Companies Yokogawa Electric Corporation (News - Alert)

Spectrasensors, Inc. (U.S)

ABB Ltd

Neo Monitors AS

Siemens AG

Focused Photonics Inc.

Servomex Ltd.

Ametek Inc.

Mettler-Toledo International Inc.

Sick AG

Emerson (News - Alert) Electric Co.

General Electric Corporation

Norsk Elektro Optikk (NEO) Monitors AS

Endress+Hauser

Axetris AG For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/pt8p4x/tunable_diode?w=4 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005331/en/

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[August 07, 2018] American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine Signs Memorandum of Understanding with Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center to Create Caribbean Disaster Medicine Center

American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC) and Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (HMFP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), with the aim to establish a center of excellence for disaster medicine in the Caribbean. "As a medical school with its main campus in the Caribbean, AUC is ideally positioned to develop medical education and training opportunities in the areas of hurricane preparedness and emergency response to benefit the region and beyond," said Heidi Chumley, MD, MBA, Executive Dean at AUC. "We're excited to work with HMFP to explore a wide range of collaborative efforts, and apply our combined expertise to the challenges facing the country of St. Maarten and the region." HMFP is the academic physician group exclusively affiliated with Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), a major Harvard Medical School teaching affiliate in Boston. HMFP deploys members of its emergency medicine department to collaborations across the globe to build capacity in disaster preparedness and response systems, and provides continuing education and training to healthcare professionals and first responders. "This collaboration with AUC offers a uniquely positioned platform to develop academic, research, and operational capacity in a region where hurricanes and tropical storms pose a threat," said Gregory R. Ciottone, MD, FACEP, FFSEM, Director of the Division of Disaster Medicine at BIDMC and Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine at Harvard Medical School. "We're looking forward to engaging with experts in the Caribbean through this center of excellence in disaster medicine, and exposing more medical students to this challenging and immensely rewarding field." Currently in the planning stage, the center could potentially include academic exchanges involving faculty and medical students, continuing education and training programs, conferences nd symposia, and on-site teaching on AUC's St. Maarten medical sciences campus by Harvard Medical School faculty, and leverage the wide range of medical and healthcare resources and programs within Adtalem.



About American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC) is a member of Adtalem Global Education (NYSE: ATGE), a global education provider headquartered in the United States. The organization's purpose is to empower students to achieve their goals, find success and make inspiring contributions to our global community. Founded in 1978, AUC has more than 6,500 graduates and is one of the oldest medical schools in the Caribbean. Dedicated to developing physicians with a lifelong commitment to patient-centered care, AUC embraces collaboration, inclusion and community service. With a campus in St. Maarten, affiliated teaching hospitals in the United States and the United Kingdom, and internationally recognized faculty, AUC has a diverse medical education program for today's globally minded physician. For more information visit aucmed.edu or follow AUC on Twitter (News - Alert) (@aucmed).

About Adtalem Global Education The purpose of Adtalem Global Education is to empower students to achieve their goals, find success and make inspiring contributions to our global community. Adtalem Global Education Inc. (NYSE: ATGE; member S&P MidCap 400 Index) is a leading global education provider, and the parent organization of Adtalem Educacional do Brasil, American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists, Becker Professional Education, Carrington College, Chamberlain University, DeVry University and its Keller Graduate School of Management, EduPristine, Ross University School of Medicine and Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. For more information, please visit adtalem.com. About Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Inc. (HMFP) was formed in May of 1998 in support of the merger of Beth Israel Hospital and New England Deaconess Hospital (now BIDMC). HMFP is the employed physician group at BIDMC. We employ approximately 1152 providers and have an exclusive affiliation agreement with BIDMC for patient care, research and teaching services. Each of our 13 departments is led by a Chief of Service who collaborate with a Chief Administrative Officer. Our HMFP corporate offices provide comprehensive management services, such as compliance, legal, finance, and human resources, to our faculty members. For more information, please visit hmfphysicians.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005187/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Integrated Dermatology Expands Its Presence in Washington, D.C.

Integrated Dermatology, the largest independent dermatology practice in the United States, expanded its presence in Washington, D.C. with the addition of Foxhall Dermatology. Integrated Dermatology Partner Todd Perkins, M.D. joins Susan Elliott, M.D. at the practice on Massachusetts Avenue. A third generation Washingtonian, Dr. Susan Elliott attended the Holton-Arms School and graduated from Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. She completed undergraduate studies at Bucknell University before earning an M.S. in Biochemistry and an M.D. at George Washington University, where she was a member of Alpha Omega Alpha National Medical Honor Society and valedictorian of her medical school class. Dr. Elliott completed her internship and dermatology residency at the University of Oregon. Her dermatological interests include immunologic aspects of atopic eczema and the effects of retinoids on skin disease. Dr. Todd Perkins is also a native Washingtonian. He received his B.A. in Political Economy from Tulane University, graduated with honors with his medical degree from Hahnemann University, and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha National Medical Honor Society. Completing his residency at Rush Medical Center in Chicago, Dr. Perkins served as the Chief Resident in Dermatology. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology an a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and the Board of National Medical Examiners. Dr. Perkins is an advisor to several medical companies, and he trains physicians both locally and nationally on the proper use of several advanced medical treatments.



"I chose to partner with Integrated Dermatology, first at our I Street location and now on Massachusetts Ave., because of their reputation for giving their physician partners autonomy. I continue to have the freedom to practice medicine the way I choose," said Dr. Todd Perkins. "I am thrilled to have Dr. Perkins and Dr. Elliott as partners as we grow our presence in the Washington, D.C. area. We'll manage the business side of the practice, freeing our physician partners to do what only they can do - offer great patient care," said Jeff Queen, co-CEO of Integrated Dermatology.

"We are dedicated to the health and well-being of our patients, and we are fortunate to have Drs. Perkins and Elliott as partners, exceptional physicians who are so familiar with the Foxhall community," said Andrew Queen, co-CEO of Integrated Dermatology. Integrated Dermatology continues its expansion nationally. To learn more about Integrated Dermatology or partnering with Integrated Dermatology, please contact us at www.MyDermGroup.com. About Integrated Dermatology Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, Integrated Dermatology is the largest independent dermatology practice in the United States. The company acquires and partners with dermatology practices across the United States and has opportunities for dermatologists in all stages of their careers. Integrated Dermatology empowers selling dermatologists to unlock their practices' value. Dermatologists can choose to grow their practice alongside Integrated Dermatology, while building wealth and enjoying autonomy over the practice of medicine. Some dermatologists may choose to retire after selling their practice or to join as an associate. Other dermatologists choose to join us as a partner, focusing on high quality patient care while we implement best practices in the areas of compliance, financial services, human resources, payers and more. Currently, Integrated Dermatology provides care in 28 states and is growing rapidly. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005059/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Strategic Financial Solutions Celebrates 11th Anniversary

Strategic Financial Solutions announced that it has officially celebrated its 11th anniversary in the financial services industry. Founded in 2007 by Ryan Sasson, Daniel Blumkin, and Ian Behar, the NYC-based firm is committed to helping people burdened with high interest debt. In 2017, Strategic became a 100% employee-owned company and now operates out of both New York City and Buffalo. "I could not be prouder of how far our company has come in eleven years," said Ryan Sasson, CEO. "When we first started on this journey, our main goal was to help individuals challenged with debt achieve financial peace of mind. So far, Strategic has helped over 100,000 clients resolve more than $1 billion in high interest credit card debt. With the clarity of a mission to help people, we have been able to attract a phenomenal team that is dedicated to bettering the lives of millions of Americans. I am very grateful there has not been a single day that I wasn't excited to work for Strategic nd our clients."



"The rapid growth that we continue to experience is beyond words," said Daniel Blumkin, Chief Sales Officer. "Our employee-owners work diligently to serve our clients which has created a culture where our business not only thrives, but prospers. While there have been a lot of changes in the last eleven years, our dedication to our employee-owners and clients remain as strong as ever." About Strategic Financial Solutions

Strategic Financial Solutions, a proudly employee-owned company, is a leading financial services company that provides comprehensive debt relief solutions for people in difficult financial situations. Through its personalized, tailored approach that includes debt consolidation loans and debt resolution programs, Strategic Financial Solutions has successfully resolved more than a billion dollars in debt for over 100,000 clients. For the last three years Strategic Financial Solutions has been ranked as one of the Best Companies to Work for in New York State. Strategic Financial Solutions was also named by Crain's New York Business to its Fast 50 Companies list. In addition, the company has been recognized by the Inc. 500 as one of the fastest growing private companies in the United States. More information can be found at www.stratfs.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005261/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Star2Star Wins 2018 Cloud Computing Product Of The Year Award

SARASOTA, Fla., Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Star2Star Communications, provider of the World's Only Full Spectrum Communications Solution, today announced that they have won the 2018 Cloud Computing Product of the Year Award. This award was granted by TMC, a global, integrated media company and presented by Cloud Computing Magazine.

Star2Stars Full Spectrum Communications Solution is the industrys leading Unified Communications solution. It offers multiple architectures, including Cloud and Hybrid, which provide customers with the flexibility to choose the best deployment for their business needs. In addition, the cloud-based communication solution includes a complete suite of advanced features, built-in business continuity, and integration options to customize the platform to a business workflows. Star2Star is thrilled to receive the 2018 Cloud Computing Product of the Year Award, said Michelle Accardi, President and Chief Revenue Officer at Star2Star. We are dedicated to providing the most complete solution available on the market. Its an honor that our Full Spectrum Communications Solution has been recognized as a top communicatons solution.



Congratulations to Star2Star for being honored with a Cloud Computing Product of the Year Award, said Rich Tehrani, CEO, TMC. The Full Spectrum Communications Solution is truly an innovative product and is amongst the best solutions available within the past twelve months that facilitates business-transforming cloud computing and communications. I look forward to continued excellence from Star2Star in 2018 and beyond. About Star2Star Communications

Founded in 2006 in Sarasota, Florida, Star2Star Communications empowers global business success with a Full Spectrum Communications Solution. With options ranging from Cloud to Hybrid, Star2Star offers unparalleled value, reliability, quality, and scalability. Star2Star unifies business communications including voice, video, fax, mobile, chat, and presence management. Merged with Blueface, the leading pan-European UCaaS provider, Star2Star possesses a global influence and customer base. Blueface's proprietary cloud voice platform supports businesses of all sizes, ranging from small-to-medium to large enterprises and strategic wholesale customers. Star2Star's award-winning, patented Constellation Network overcomes the reliability and quality limitations of other communications technologies and enables companies to choose the deployment methodology that aligns best with their needs. For businesses who require high-quality voice, redundant networks for continuity, and ultra-reliable communications, Star2Star's Hybrid architecture offers the highest guaranteed SLAs in the industry at an affordable price. Businesses with less complexity, who seek the best communications capabilities for their employees and customers, can consider Star2Star's Hosted solution the optimal choice. With a customer retention rate of 99.85%, Star2Star has been recognized by a multitude of leading analysts. In the past seven years, Star2Star was named to the Forbes Most Promising Companies list, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 five times, and the Inc. 500|5000 seven times. The company was also named by IHS as a Top 10 Hosted Business VoIP/UC Provider and has been in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for UCaaS, Worldwide for the last four years. Learn more at www.star2star.com. Casey OLoughlin

coloughlin@star2star.com

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[August 07, 2018] Genesis Blockchain Technologies Invites Dr. Rittman to Futurist Conference

Genesis Blockchain Technologies Title Sponsor of Futurist Conference San Diego, CA, Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gopher Protocol Inc. (OTCQB: GOPH) ("Gopher"), a company specializing in the creation of Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence enabled mobile technologies, is proud to announce jointly with Genesis Blockchain Technologies (Genesis), the invitation of Dr. Danny Rittman to the Futurist Conference to discuss the synergies of Gophers products with Blockchain technologies. About the Conference & Agenda: Genesis is a title sponsor of Futurist Conference ( www.futuristconference.com ), the largest Blockchain conference in Canada that will be held on August 14-16 with an expected attendance of 3,000. The Futurist Conference will feature the Co-Founders of Ethereum (with an approximate $40 Billion Market Cap), Dash (with an approximate $1.7 Billion Market Cap) and featuring Larry King as a moderator. Mr. Pablo Gonzalez, Founder and CEO of Genesis Blockchain Technologies, will speak immediately prior to the keynote speaker and Ethereum Co-Founder Charles Hoskinson to announce a revolutionary launch. About the Synergies: In light of the expected synergy of Gophers GRC Blockchain-Based Radio Generated Digital Currency proprietary technology for Genesis, Genesis has invited Dr. Rittman to the conference to meet with industry leaders with the goal of incorporating GRC Blockchain-Based Radio Genrated technology into Blockchain 4.0 inception through the potential utilization of GRC Blockchain-Based Radio Generated technology.



As Pablo Gonzalez, Genesis Blockchains CEO, put it: We believe that Gophers GRC Blockchain-Based Radio Generated Technology could be integral to Blockchain 4.0, when developed, due to its true decentralized nature by definition using free radio open channels in private networking through decentralized mesh technology, paired with its cutting edge security protocols. Mr. Gonzalez added, I believe that Gophers GRC patented technology has the ability to revolutionize the entire industry; this not being an overstatement. As a reminder the Company and Tokenize-It, S.A. entered into a Letter of Intent with the goal of creating a joint venture between the parties allowing Tokenize-It access to a fully licensed and regulated currency trading platform in Costa Rica held by GBT Technologies, S.A.

Gophers GRC Blockchain-Based Radio Generated Digital Currency does not come in a vacuum -- it is part of the all Gopherinsight() concept, where its derivative patents like the Guardian Patch, which was granted, are standalone domains. With the mandate of Gophers board, I am looking forward to presenting this comprehensive technology to the leaders of the crypto currency arena, provided Dr. Rittman, Gophers CTO. Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release may constitute "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements provide current expectations of future events based on certain assumptions and include any statement that does not directly relate to any historical or current fact. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors as disclosed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission located at their website ( http://www.sec.gov ). In addition to these factors, actual future performance, outcomes, and results may differ materially because of more general factors including (without limitation) general industry and market conditions and growth rates, economic conditions, governmental and public policy changes, the Companys ability to raise capital on acceptable terms, if at all, the Companys successful development of its products and the integration into its existing products and the commercial acceptance of the Companys products. The forward-looking statements included in this press release represent the Company's views as of the date of this press release and these views could change. However, while the Company may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company's views as of any date subsequent to the date of the press release. Contact: Dr. Danny Rittman CTO Gopher Protocol Inc. VM Only 888-685-7336 Media: press@gopherprotocol.com

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[August 07, 2018] Amazon Prime Day 2018: Consumers Cross-check More, Plan More, but Still Buy and Spend More in Europe and the US, According to New Research from Periscope By McKinsey

NEW YORK and LONDON, Aug 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Periscope By McKinsey, which offers a suite of Marketing & Sales Analytics Solutions to help companies achieve sustainable revenue growth, has today announced the findings of its research on consumer actions, attitudes and behavior during Amazon Prime Day 2018. The research, conducted in the US, UK, France, Germany and Italy, found that consumers are spending more, on more items, and online shopping behavior continues to grow in sophistication. The survey of 3,000 consumers found awareness of Amazon Prime Day is very high with all countries in the survey reporting over 80% awareness with the exception of France at just 63%. Looking at the continued decline of purely offline shopping, the US trails other countries in its adoption of the online experience with 10% saying they only shop offline. This is more than double other countries, where the average is 4.5%. All countries reported that a mix of online and offline was their dominant way to shop but an average 16% stated they mostly shop online. Germany and the UK led the way in this regard with 21% and 17% respectively. More participation and spending in Amazon Prime Day According to the new survey, the US (41%) and Italy (39%) showed the greatest shopper participation in this year's event. Based on our previous annual surveys, Amazon Prime Day participation has multiplied year on year in every country across 2015-2018. Participation had increased a typical 4-5x, with the greatest increase in the UK with a multiple of 6.8. According to Amazon, Prime members worldwide purchased more than 100 million products during this year Prime Day event. Looking specifically at spending, every country spent more than in 2017. The biggest move was in the UK where 59% of shoppers spent 'a bit more' or 'much more', this was closely followed by France (57%) and Germany (54%). There are also signs the US is becoming more constrained in its spending as the top country where shoppers say they 'spent the same' at 40%. Shoppers are also buying more items with a majority in every country stating they bought "a bit more" or "much more" product than in 2017. The greatest shift was in France with 62% falling into these categories, followed by the UK (57%), Italy (54%), Germany (49%) and the US (46%). The sales competition Whilst Amazon Prime Day may be going from strength to strength, it has lots of online competition when it comes to other sales events. For respndents, Cyber Monday is widely regarded as the top named sale event competitor with an average 44% saying they participate, though it was as high as 65% in the US. In Germany, Mega Monday was the next most participated event (10%), but in the US (30%), UK (21%), Italy (9%) and France (8%) it is Free Shipping Day, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2018. Whilst many feel they get a great deal at Amazon Prime Day, the results show a sophistication in some markets where the convenience of using a single marketplace, and low prices, is not enough to keep them from shopping in 'other' places.



Shoppers are getting smarter 'Consumer Electronics' was the number one shopping category this Amazon Prime Day with an average 48% of shoppers buying these goods. 'Books, Movies and Music' (34%), 'Clothing and Accessories' (37%) and 'Toys' (28%) also featured highly in all countries. 'Beauty and Fragrance' also performed well with an average 28%, followed by 'Kitchen Appliances' at 26%.

Looking at how consumers shopped, those in the UK, US and Italy described themselves as being more planned in their approach to Amazon Prime Day 2018, whereas 53% in France and 48% in Germany considered themselves to be more spontaneous. But despite some spontaneity, consumers are getting smarter about checking prices outside Amazon before committing to their purchases. On average 62% of shoppers now check 'a couple' or 'several' of their prices. European countries were much more likely to check prices, with France recording the most consumers likely to check several prices (44%). "There is no doubt that Amazon Prime Day keeps gaining in popularity with huge global awareness, and multiplying participation every year," said Channie Mize, Senior Vice President and Global Sector General Manager, Retail at Periscope By McKinsey. "Shoppers are spending more at Prime Day but they are getting smarter, they are becoming increasingly price aware, and more willing to see what else is available elsewhere online. It is a huge opportunity to Amazon, but other retailers should take heed that with the right sales initiatives and understanding of their customers, they can keep them loyal and coming back for more. But there still is a significant group of shoppers that like to shop spontaneously. Retailers should see this as an opportunity, using personalized marketing and messages to increase the chances of showing shoppers an 'unexpected delight' that they will want to buy." For complete details on the survey's findings, download the full report, "Beyond the Hype  The Evolution of Consumer Shopping Behaviors", via this link. Study Methodology In July 2018, Periscope By McKinsey conducted online research targeting consumers in France (500), Germany (500), Italy (500), the UK (500) and the U.S. (1,000). Respondents were aged between 18 and 70+ and responses were selectively evaluated by age category and gender. About Periscope By McKinsey Founded in 2007, Periscope By McKinsey offers a suite of Marketing & Sales Analytics Solutions to help companies achieve sustainable revenue growth. The Periscope By McKinsey platform combines world-leading intellectual property, prescriptive analytics and cloud-based tools with expert support and training. It's a unique combination that drives revenue growth, both now and into the future. The platform offers a suite of Marketing & Sales solutions that accelerate and sustain commercial transformation for businesses. Periscope leverages its world-leading IP (largely from McKinsey but also other partners) and best-in-class technology to enable transparency into Big Data, create actionable insights and new ways of working that drive lasting performance improvement, and typically sustain a 2-7% increase in return on sales (ROS). With a truly global reach, the portfolio of solutions is comprised of: Insight Solutions, Marketing Solutions, Customer Experience Solutions, Category Solutions, Pricing Solutions, Performance Solutions and Sales Solutions. These are complemented by ongoing client service and custom capability building programs. To learn more about how Periscope's solutions and experts are helping businesses continually drive better performance, visit http://www.periscope-solutions.com/. For Periscope General information, Christian Koestler, christian.koestler@periscope-solutions.com, +43-1-5370 6342. View original content:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/amazon-prime-day-2018-consumers-cross-check-more-plan-more-but-still-buy-and-spend-more-in-europe-and-the-us-according-to-new-research-from-periscope-by-mckinsey-300692347.html SOURCE Periscope By McKinsey

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[August 07, 2018] GM Financial Leads in Customer Loyalty Among Captive Lenders for Second Consecutive Year

GENERAL MOTORS FINANCIAL COMPANY, INC. ("GM Financial" or the "Company"), today announced the company is the leader in overall manufacturer loyalty among captive automotive lenders for the second consecutive year, according to GM Financial analysis of IHS (News - Alert) Markit lease and retail return to market manufacturer loyalty data for calendar year 2017.* In the 2017 calendar year, GM Financial had the highest manufacturer loyalty rate for returning lessees, where 81 percent of existing lease customers that returned to market repurchased a new GM vehicle. In that same time period, vehicle owners who financed their purchase through GM Financial remained loyal to General Motors (News - Alert) at a rate of 68.1 percent, the highest manufacturer loyalty rate among manufacturer-owned lenders. "We solidified our position this year as the U.S. industry leader in manufacturer loyalty in both lease and loan among captive auto lenders, which is an important step forward," said Dan Berce, President and CEO of GM Financial. "To sustain our momentum in 2018, we'e committed to serving as a valuable resource to GM dealers, continuously analyzing their needs to help build customer loyalty, increase retention and drive incremental sales. We're also keenly focused on enhancing the customer experience, including improvement in our mobile and digital capabilities as well as an updated, more personalized end-of-lease experience for customers."



For the third year in a row, General Motors was honored with an IHS Markit automotive loyalty award for "Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer" for the 2017 model year. * Manufacturer loyalty in this case is defined as households who return to market from a captive OEM-leased or purchased vehicle and remain loyal to the same manufacturer. This data is based on disposal methodology and IHS Markit segmentation in the U.S.

About GM Financial General Motors Financial Company, Inc. is the wholly-owned captive finance subsidiary of General Motors Company and is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. For more information, visit www.gmfinancial.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005164/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Washington Gas Promotes Success of 'Call Before You Dig' Program on National 811 Day

To commemorate National 811 Day in the nation's capital, Washington Gas is showcasing major progress made across all three of its service territories in Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia to significantly reduce damage to natural gas lines caused by unsafe digging. In the United States, every nine minutes an underground utility line is damaged because of digging by individuals who do not call 811 beforehand. One of the leading causes of gas leak emergencies in the country are damages to underground gas lines by individuals and contractors performing excavation work such as digging, boring and directional drilling. National 811 Day provides an excellent opportunity to highlight how everyone can participate in reducing damages by calling 811 before doing any type of excavation work. The Call Before You Dig 811 program, which is a free service, provides clear guidance and instruction to reduce damage to all types of underground utilities, including gas lines. Through Washington Gas' widely deployed awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, training sessions and close collaboration with energy industry groups and state regulatory commissions, the message to encourage calling 811 before beginning a project that involves digging or excavating so that underground utility lines can be marked ahead of time continues to gain traction among customers, contractors, construction crews and homeowners. The decrease in incidences of utility lines being struck demonstrates how 811 can protect the community, prevent injury, avoid interrupted service and put safety first. Washington Gas' damage prevention program has dramatically reduced damages since its inception in 1989 when damages averaged more than 8 strikes per 1,000 requests for assistance identifying underground utilities. Today, that number is about 1 strike per 1,000 requests. "We are pleased to have achieved a great deal of success in reducing damage to our gas distribution system. Keeping our customers safe and providing reliable service are our highest priorities and preventing damage is a key way we do that," said Adrian Chapman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Washington Gas, a WGL company serving more than 1.1 million customers. "We are proud to celebrate the improvements across our service territory and applaud the partnerships that led to the success of many public education programs promoting the importance of the Call Before You Dig principles." Chapman added, "We need to maintain our vigilance to ensure all underground utilities, including natural gas lines, are marked properly and that those marks are respected to prevent damage. We can only do that when the public helps us spread the word about calling 811 each and every time they dig." As a result of investment in damage prevention programs, including implementing robust 811 advocacy, enhanced outreach and ongoing education throughout its service territories, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia are recognized leaders in the industry for decreasing utlity line damage incidences caused by unsafe digging practices. In addition, Washington Gas has developed an Enhanced Positive Response (EPR) that not only locates and marks underground utilities but also provides customer-detailed information, including photographs and mapping, about the location and mark each time a call comes in. This EPR process, combined with Washington Gas' computer-generated algorithm, and a risk ranking of each locate and mark request, has helped Washington Gas maintain a leadership role in damage prevention. These programs are considered industry best practices and are established in all the Company's jurisdictions.



Highlights of Washington Gas initiatives include: For the second consecutive year, Washington Gas has partnered with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and joined with the Miss Utility Group for its annual National Call 811 Day at Nationals Park stadium to hand out literature and interact with fans about the positive impact of calling 811 to avoid disruptive damage to utility lines.

Washington Gas participates in a series of bus caravan (or, "Care-A-Van") stops with volunteers that visit communities, fairs, school events, festivals and other gatherings with a colorfully branded Call Before You Dig 811 van that brings the message of safe digging from town to town to educate neighbors and families.

This year, Washington Gas is continuing a partnership with NBC4 TV news, to co-produce a public service announcement (PSA) message that urges the community to Call Before You Dig and reminds viewers and listeners about the importance of dialing 811 before starting any project that involves digging. Regulatory commissions in Washington Gas' service territory partner in support of 811

"By taking this simple and necessary step of calling 811 in advance of any digging project, neighborhoods remain safe and connected," stated Betty Ann Kane, Chairman of the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia. "Each year in the District, we dedicate time and resources in educating residents about safe digging practices in order to prevent service interruptions, damage to the environment and personal injury." "We encourage everyone to use the 811 service before breaking ground for any digging project. This program has been an effective way to ensure proper procedures are followed and avoid costly damages," said Jason Stanek, Chairman of the Maryland Public Service Commission. "The Commission is a strong advocate of measures that protect our energy infrastructure, making sure utility service is safe and reliable for our residents, businesses and local communities." Reminders for contractors and homeowners who call 811 before they dig: Anyone digging should call 811 at least two full working days (excluding weekends and holidays) before they are scheduled to begin any type of digging to report where they are planning to dig and what type of work they will be doing.

Utility companies that may have facilities in the area of the dig site will be notified about the potential excavation. Each affected utility company will send a locator to mark the approximate location of the nearby underground utility lines. For more information, please refer to Washington Gas' Natural Gas e-book that includes Resources, Safety Tips and Emergency Information, with a section dedicated to 811: https://washingtongas.dcatalog.com/v/Natural-Gas-101/#page=8. About WGL and Washington Gas The WGL family of companies-Washington Gas, WGL Energy, WGL Midstream and Hampshire Gas-are now indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries of AltaGas Ltd [TSX:ALA]. WGL is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and is a leading source for clean, efficient and diverse energy solutions. With activities and assets across the U.S., WGL provides options for natural gas, electricity, green power and energy services, including generation, storage, transportation, distribution, supply and efficiency. Our calling as a company is to make energy surprisingly easy for our employees, our community and all our customers. Whether you are a homeowner or renter, small business or multinational corporation, state and local or federal agency, WGL is here to provide Energy Answers. Ask Us. For more information, visit us at wgl.com and @wglanswers. WGL's regulated natural gas utility, Washington Gas, provides safe, reliable natural gas service to more than 1.1 million customers in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. The company has been providing energy to residential, commercial and industrial customers for 170 years. Visit us at www.washingtongas.com and follow us on Twitter (News - Alert) @washingtongas. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005083/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Connected Health Conference 2018 Keynote Series: Dr. Cynthia Breazeal, Pioneer Of Social Robotics And Human Robot Interaction

ARLINGTON, Va. and BOSTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Personal Connected Health Alliance (PCHAlliance), a HIMSS innovation company, today announced that Dr. Cynthia Breazeal, Associate Professor of Media Arts and Sciences at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), is a keynote speaker confirmed to take the main stage at the 10th annual Connected Health Conference. She founded and directs the Personal Robots Group at the MIT Media Lab, and is also founder and Chief Scientist of Jibo, Inc. Dr. Breazeal is famous for her robots, which are designed to demonstrate seemingly emotional as well as physical reactions to the world around them. Her earliest work includes a 'cyberfloral installation' that featured robotic flowers that swayed when a human hand was near and glowed in bright colors. In 1997, she started work on developing a robot that could learn from people for her doctorial thesis. That concept led to Kismet, an affective robot which she created to provoke the kind of interactions a human adult and a baby might have. Today, Dr. Breazeal's research focuses on developing the principles, techniques, and technologies for personal robots that are socially inteligent, interact and communicate with people in human-centric terms, work with humans as peers, and learn from people as an apprentice. Her recent work investigates the impact of social robots on helping people of all ages to achieve personal goals that contribute to quality of life in domains such as physical performance, learning/education, health, and family communication and play over distance.



At Jibo, Inc., Dr. Breazeal brings the technologies, design insights, and user experience of social robots to create the world's first family robot. Jibo, a TIME Magazine Best Inventions of 2017, is designed to help busy families communicate, coordinate and connect with loved ones with greater ease, efficacy, and delight. As an open platform, Jibo enables third party developers to bring the humanized engagement and emotional lift of social robots to their apps, content and services. She authored the book Designing Sociable Robots, and has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles in journals and conferences on the topics of Autonomous Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Human Robot Interaction, and Robot Learning. She received her B.S. (1989) in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Dr. Breazeal did her graduate work at the MIT Artificial Intelligence Lab and received her M.S. (1993) and Sc.D. (2000) in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

PCHAlliance has created an unmatched leadership event, bringing together the industry's two leading events -- the Connected Health Conference (formerly the mHealth Summit) and the Partners Connected Health Symposium. This year's theme, Balancing Technology and the Human Element, will showcase forward-thinking approaches and technologies that are driving integration of connected health into consumer health and care delivery. The 10th annual Connected Health Conference will take place October 17-19 at the Seaport World Trade Center in Boston. GENERAL REGISTRATION: Please visit the CHC18 website for details and easy online registration. Personal Connected Health Alliance

The Personal Connected Health Alliance (PCHAlliance), a HIMSS innovation company, is focused on advancing digital health solutions to achieve better health, wellness and care delivery, accelerating technical, business, policy and social strategies necessary to advance personal connected health. View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/connected-health-conference-2018-keynote-series-dr-cynthia-breazeal-pioneer-of-social-robotics-and-human-robot-interaction-300693072.html SOURCE Personal Connected Health Alliance

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[August 07, 2018] Make the Grade this School Year with Back-to-School Shopping at Rite Aid

With a new school year on the horizon, Rite Aid stores have a wide selection of electronics, back-to-school basics and must-haves for those college bound, offering one-stop-shopping on the items students need and want this school year. And with the National Retail Federation projecting that combined total spending for K-12 schools and college will reach $82.8 billion this back-to-school shopping season, Rite Aid's wellness+ rewards program offers shoppers the opportunity to earn wellness+ rewards through the purchase of select back-to-school products and exclusive savings. Shop and Save on Back-to-School Basics Students can't go back-to-school without the basics. Shop Rite Aid's locker aisle and load up on pens, pencils, crayons, highlighters, composition books, rulers, glue, tape and calculators from brands like from trusted brands like Sharpie, Five-Star, Bic, Crayola, Elmer's, Texas Instruments (News - Alert) and Rite Aid's private label brand, Home, which offers many school year staples for under $1. Stylish School Gear and Smart Snacks When it comes to backpacks and lunchboxes, students can have their pick of stylish designs, colors and cool characters. Shoppers will also find sandwich and snack containers featuring fresh designs that are also functional. While shopping, stock on snacks; Rite Aid offers a variety of smarter snacks including organic, gluten and sugar free options. E is for Electronics From the dorm room to the classroom, make sure students have the technology they need - and want - to succeed. Rite Aid stores have tablets, TVs, Bluetooth speakers, printers and power cords. And because students are always on the go, stock up on USB drives and cell phone accessories like wall and car chargers as well as standard and wireless earbuds. Home Away from Home Dorm life doesn't have to be dull. Shop Rite Aid for the latest in dorm essentials like inens, lamps, small household appliances, hangers, laundry baskets and storage containers in a variety of styles and sizes. Throw blankets and novelty pillows add a personal touch; choose from fun sequin pillows, ombre patterns and shapes like unicorns and hearts. Complete any look with wall art, featuring fun and inspirational sayings.



Gift Cards Always Make the Grade Gift cards always earn high marks and with more than 200 to choose from, there's a gift card for every student. Choose from favorites like Rite Aid, Visa or American Express (News - Alert) ; iTunes, Google, Dunkin Donuts; or streaming TV gift cards such as Netflix or HBO Now. For those students away from home, load up on gift cards from Uber, Subway and Fandango to make the ultimate care package.

Here's to a Healthy School Year For parents and guardians of students needing back-to-school immunizations, Rite Aid can help check that off the to-do list, too. At each of Rite Aid's more than 2,500 locations across the country, Rite Aid certified immunizing pharmacists are able to vaccinate against more than a dozen diseases based on the CDC's vaccine guidelines and state regulations. For more information, visit Rite Aid's Vaccine Central, at www.riteaid.com/vaccinecentral, or speak to any Rite Aid pharmacist. RediClinic, a leading operator of convenient care clinics and a wholly owned subsidiary of Rite Aid, offers busy parents a convenient solution for students in need of a back-to-school physical. A board-certified clinician will assess the child's health and family history and perform an evaluation of height, weight, blood pressure, vision, the heart and other key areas. Clinicians can also provide vaccinations that may be required for school attendance and verify that all mandatory vaccinations are up-to-date. Located inside select Rite Aid pharmacies and H-E-B stores, RediClinics are open seven days a week with extended weekday hours, and accept same- or next-day appointments online at www.rediclinic.com. Walk-ins are welcome. Parents are encouraged to bring any required forms and can find a convenient RediClinic location by visiting www.rediclinic.com. Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) is one of the nation's leading drugstore chains with fiscal 2018 annual revenues of $21.5 billion. Information about Rite Aid, including corporate background and press releases, is available through the company's website at www.riteaid.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005525/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Intrinsyc (TSX: ITC and OTC: ISYRF) Enters into a 3G/4G Patent License Agreement with Qualcomm for Development of Embedded Modules for use in M2M, IoT, and Telematics Devices

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Intrinsyc Technologies Corporation (TSX: ITC and OTC: ISYRF) (Intrinsyc or the Company), a leading provider of solutions for the development of intelligent connected devices, today announced the Company has signed a 3G/4G patent license agreement with Qualcomm Incorporated. Under the terms of the agreement Qualcomm has granted a royalty-bearing patent license, to develop, manufacture and sell embedded modules for use in complete terminals; including M2M, Telematics, and IoT Devices, but excluding telephones and tablets.

We are excited to expand on our relationship with Qualcomm to develop innovative modules that will enable our clients to create intelligent connected IoT products, said Tracy Rees, Chief Executive Officer, Intrinsyc Technologies Corporation. Intrinsyc has developed a compelling portfolio of embedded computing modules based on the Qualcomm Snapdragon processor technology for use in IoT devices such as wearables, cameras, robotics, telematics, and more. With this agreement we will be able to expand our product lineup to include modules that incorporate the industrys leading cellular technology from Qualcomm. We are pleased to sign a licensing agreement that expands on our long-standing relationship and enables Intrinsyc to create a broadened set of solutions fo the Internet of Things and telematics markets, said John Han, SVP and GM, Qualcomm Technology Licensing. Qualcomms breakthrough technologies make ecosystems thrive, and we are proud to empower OEMs like Intrinsyc to compete, innovate and grow globally. ?



Intrinsycs first product to take advantage of the new licensing arrangement is currently under development. The Open-Q 2500-M1 is a small footprint System on Module (SOM) designed for wearables and tracking applications. The SOM will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 2500 platform and will include an integrated LTE modem. About Intrinsyc Technologies Corporation

Intrinsyc Technologies Corporation is a product development company that provides hardware, software, and engineering and production services that enable rapid commercialization of IoT products. Solutions span the development life cycle from concept to production and help device makers and technology suppliers create compelling differentiated products with faster time-to-market. Intrinsycs Open-Q System on Modules incorporate the industrys most advanced Qualcomm Snapdragon processor technology from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., and helps OEMs to rapidly bring industry leading products, with rich functionality and high performance, to market. Intrinsyc is publicly traded (TSX: ITC and OTC: ISYRF) and is headquartered in Vancouver, BC, Canada, with additional engineering centers in Taipei, Taiwan, and Bangalore, India.

www.intrinsyc.com



For more information, please contact:

Rachele Webb

Senior Marketing Communications Coordinator

Intrinsyc Technologies Corporation

Email: rwebb@intrinsyc.com

Phone: +1-604-632-3559 Intrinsyc and Open-Q and their respective logos are trademarks, registered and otherwise, of Intrinsyc Technologies Corporation in Canada, European Union, Taiwan, United States of America and other jurisdictions. Qualcomm, Snapdragon and Snapdragon Wear are trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated, registered in the United States and other countries. Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear and Qualcomm Snapdragon are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.

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Optiv Security Announces Integrated Suite of Services That Allows Clients to See Themselves Through the Eyes of the Enemy; Further Helps Organizations Rationalize and Optimize Cyber Security

Optiv Security, the world's leading security solutions integrator, today announced "EnemyPerspectives@Optiv," an integrated suite of services that allows the modern organization to evaluate its digital footprint from the perspective of a potential threat actor, from that actor's intent, and then take prioritized steps to remediate weaknesses. EnemyPerspectives@Optiv is the latest example of how Optiv helps clients build sustainable, risk-centric foundations for implementing proactive and measurable security programs.

"Today's organizations continue to accelerate the adoption of digital business models and environments to remain competitive. While transforming business to the latest apps and services provides access to new customers through more targeted data, it also creates a wider attack surface for threat actors to exploit, and puts businesses at greater reputational and financial risk," said Chad Holmes, Optiv's chief services and operations officer. "The assumption that plug-and-play security technologies can thwart threat actors is only one piece of the puzzle. We need to turn things around - take a different perspective, the perspective of the attacker - in order to have a more complete view on the risks to our businesses. The attacker sees things differently. They have a different purpose. They may look at part of an enterprise's IT stack and instead of seeing protection, they see potential."

Holmes continued, "An organization needs the right technologies deployed in the right ways, but it also needs insight into where vulnerabilities exist, based on demonstrated threat actor intent and behavior. EnemyPerspectives@Optiv gives clients a superior program to address current threats with the ability to effectively assess and predict future threats. With this foundation in place, organizations can take the appropriate actions to become cyber resilient and proactively mitigate risk."

EnemyPerspectives@Optiv is aligned across three categories:







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About Optiv Security

Optiv helps clients plan, build and run successful cyber security programs that achieve business objectives through our depth and breadth of cyber security offerings, extensive capabilities and proven expertise in cyber security strategy, managed security services, incident response, risk and compliance, security consulting, training and support, integration and architecture services, and security technology. Optiv maintains premium partnerships with more than 350 of the leading security technology manufacturers. For more information, visit www.optiv.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005585/en/
[August 07, 2018] SmartBug Media Named Among Best Companies in Los Angeles and Best CEOs in Los Angeles by Comparably

IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- SmartBug Mediaa leading intelligent inbound marketing agency that assists businesses in generating leads, increasing awareness, and building brand loyalty through inbound marketing, digital strategy, design, marketing automation, and public relationstoday announced that Comparably has recognized it as a Best Company in Los Angeles and that Founder and CEO Ryan Malone has been named one of the Best CEOs in Los Angeles. Comparably launched in 2016 as a compensation, culture, and career-monitoring site and began issuing leadership awards in 2017. The Best CEOs and Best Companies in Los Angeles awards recognize large and small/midsize companies in Los Angeles that received the highest ratings from employees. This year, SmartBug has also been recognized by Comparably as a Best CEOs for Women, Small & Midsized Companies, and Best Company Managers, Small & Midsized Companies. The ful list of Comparably's latest 2018 national awards can be viewed here.



"It's amazing to receive these awards, and truly speaks to the spirit of our employees," said founder and CEO Ryan Malone. "Coming to work every day feels more like hanging out with friendsreally smart and capable friends. I love what I do and the people I get to do it with. They are talented, driven and always cheering on the success of their peers while doing amazing work for our clients." Since Malone launched SmartBug Media 10 years ago, the agency has received more than 85 awards and recognitions, including being named an Inc. 5000 company twice. The company also boasts the highest ROI documented from any HubSpot partner: 3,558 percent and 14,500 percent ROI on a six-month and three-year campaign, respectively. In addition, Malone was recently appointed an Industry Fellow at the University of California, Irvine's (UCI) Center for Digital Transformation within The Paul Merage School of Business.

Methodology:

Comparably's 'Best Of' Awards are derived from sentiment ratings provided by employees who anonymously rated their CEOs on Comparably.com between June 12, 2017 and June 12, 2018. There were no fees or costs associated with participating, nor was nomination required. Large companies (500+ employees) had to have a minimum of 50 employee participants and Small/Midsize companies (less than 500 employees) had to have a minimum of 15 employee participants. About Comparably:

Comparably is one of the fastest growing compensation, culture, and career monitoring sites in the U.S. With the most comprehensive and uniquely structured data  segmented by gender, ethnicity, age, location, tenure, company size, equity, title/department, and education  the platform gives employees a more accurate picture of their worth and allows them to anonymously rate their workplace experiences and match with their dream jobs. Since its launch in 2016, Comparably has accumulated more than 5 million ratings from employees across 45,000 U.S. businesses and over 8,500 companies who use its employer branding and jobs tools. For more information on Comparably, go to www.comparably.com. For highly-cited workplace culture and compensation studies, including Comparably's annual Best Places to Work and Best CEOs lists, log onto www.comparably.com/blog. About SmartBug Media

For 10 years, SmartBug Media has been helping businesses increase sales leads, close more customers, and enhance the reach of their brands. SmartBug Media is one of a handful of HubSpot Diamond partners in the world and is the highest-rated agency in the history of the HubSpot ecosystem. SmartBug Media also boasts the highest ROI documented from any HubSpot partner: 3,558 percent and 14,500 percent ROI on a six-month and three-year campaign, respectively. SmartBug Media is also a certified Great Place to Work, Inc. 5000 company, and the winner of 36 MarCom Awards in 2017 and 32 AVA Digital Awards in 2018. View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/smartbug-media-named-among-best-companies-in-los-angeles-and-best-ceos-in-los-angeles-by-comparably-300693279.html SOURCE SmartBug Media

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[August 07, 2018] Chicago, Cook County Homeownership to Get Boost with $8 Million NeighborhoodLIFT Program

Wells Fargo (News - Alert) & Company (NYSE:WFC), NeighborWorks America and its network member, Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, today announced the NeighborhoodLIFT program will expand to the Chicago area with an $8 million commitment by Wells Fargo to boost homeownership in Cook County. The event in Chicago is Wells Fargo's 62nd LIFT program launch conducted in collaboration with NeighborWorks America and its network members. The 2018 NeighborhoodLIFT program for Cook County follows the 2012 Chicago LIFT program, which created 547 homeowners by offering homebuyer education plus down payment assistance grants as a result of a $10 million commitment by Wells Fargo. "The NeighborhoodLIFT program is another example of our commitment to Chicago and Cook County," said Monica Cole, Wells Fargo's head of middle market banking for the North region. "The effort will contribute to the strength of the community by helping hardworking families and individuals get on the path to achieve successful and sustainable homeownership." Free NeighborhoodLIFT event in Chicago August 24-25 Nearly 400 homebuyers are registered to attend the free Wells Fargo NeighborhoodLIFT event Aug. 24 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Aug. 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the McCormick Convention Center, Grand Ballroom, South Building, level one located at 2301 S. King Dr., Chicago, Ill., 60616. Walk-ins are welcome while the $15,000 grants are available for reservation. To learn more about the eligibility requirements and documents needed to apply for a down payment assistance grant, visit www.nhschicago.org/lift. Participating homebuyers can obtain mortgage financing from any participating lender. Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago will determine eligibilityand administer the down payment assistance grants.



"This innovative collaboration will create about 425 homeowners," said John Santner, regional vice president, Midwest region, NeighborWorks America. "The required homebuyer education classes provided by certified professionals better prepare NeighborhoodLIFT homebuyers to achieve their goal of sustainable homeownership." To be eligible, annual incomes must not exceed 80 percent of the local area median income, which is about $67,700 for up to a family of four in Cook County. In addition, there are special parameters for veterans and service members, teachers, law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians who may earn up to 100 percent of the local area median income, which is about $84,600, to reserve $17,500 down payment assistance grants within eligibility requirements. Approved homebuyers will have up to 60 days to finalize a contract to purchase a home in Cook County.

To reserve the full grant amount, participants buying a primary residence with the NeighborhoodLIFT program must commit to live in the home for five years. "We are ready to assist Cook County families and provide homebuyer education and down payment assistance to help them achieve successful and sustainable homeownership," said Kristin Faust, president, Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago. "This unique program both prepares people for homeownership and can also help overcome the barrier of coming up with a sufficient down payment." Since February 2012, LIFT programs have helped create more than 18,000 homeowners in 60 communities. A video about the NeighborhoodLIFT program is posted on Wells Fargo Stories. About Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago and NeighborWorks America Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago is a chartered member of NeighborWorks America, a national organization that creates opportunities for people to live in affordable homes, improve their lives and strengthen their communities. NeighborWorks America supports a network of more than 245 nonprofits, located in every state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Visit www.nhschicago.org or www.neighborworks.org to learn more. About Wells Fargo Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.9 trillion in assets. Wells Fargo's vision is to satisfy our customers' financial needs and help them succeed financially. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance, through 8,050 locations, 13,000 ATMs, the internet (wellsfargo.com) and mobile banking, and has offices in 38 countries and territories to support customers who conduct business in the global economy. With approximately 265,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in the United States. Wells Fargo & Company was ranked No. 26 on Fortune's 2018 rankings of America's largest corporations. News, insights and perspectives from Wells Fargo are also available at Wells Fargo Stories. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005226/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Booz Allen to Participate August 8th at Jefferies 2018 Industrials Conference

Booz Allen Hamilton (News - Alert) Chief Financial Officer Lloyd Howell and Investor Relations Director Nicholas Veasey will attend the Jefferies 2018 Global Industrials Conference in New York City on Wednesday, August 8. The company will deliver a presentation at 2:40 p.m. EDT. A link to the webcast will be available to the public at investors.boozallen.com with a replay option open for seven days afterward. About Booz Allen Hamilton For more than 100 years, business, goernment, and military leaders have turned to Booz Allen Hamilton to solve their most complex problems. They trust us to bring together the right minds: those who devote themselves to the challenge at hand, who speak with relentless candor, and who act with courage and character. They expect original solutions where there are no roadmaps. They rely on us because they know that-together-we will find the answers and change the world.



We solve the most difficult management and technology problems through a combination of consulting, analytics, digital solutions, engineering, and cyber expertise. With global headquarters in McLean, Virginia, our firm employs approximately 24,600 people globally, and had revenue of $6.17 billion for the 12 months ended March 31, 2018. To learn more, visit www.boozallen.com. (NYSE: BAH) BAHPR-GI

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On its Facebook page, the Rolling Meadows Police Department said that Kethireddy was last seen about 4 p.m. Saturday at Chase Bank at 6940 S. Ashland Ave., in Chicagos West Englewood community.
[August 07, 2018] Vista Equity Partners to Acquire Leading Consumer Directed Healthcare Firm Alegeus

Alegeus, the market leader in consumer directed healthcare (CDH), today announced that Vista Equity Partners (Vista) has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Alegeus from investment funds affiliated with Lightyear Capital LLC (Lightyear), a New York-based private equity firm investing in financial services companies. Vista is a market-leading private equity firm that invests in, empowers and grows software, data and technology companies that are reinventing industries and catalyzing change. Lightyear Fund III, L.P., along with other investors, acquired Alegeus in August 2012. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005650/en/ Alegeus joins Vista with a strong track record and significant market opportunity ahead. As consumers continue to absorb greater financial responsibility for their healthcare, consumer directed healthcare accounts - such as HSAs, FSAs, and HRAs - will continue to be a mission-critical solution for consumers and employers to get better value for their healthcare dollars. More than 300 clients - including leading health insurance plans and third-party administrators - leverage Alegeus' deep expertise and proven technology to deliver innovative, account-based benefit programs for more than 225,000 employers and 30 million consumers. "Our clients operate in a highly competitive marketplace, and their success hinges on ensuring that they have the best solution that enables them to differentiate and win - today and tomorrow," said Steven Auerbach, Alegeus CEO. "Vista has a proven track record of helping companies unlock their next phase of growth by expanding innovation. This acquisition offers us an incredible opportunity to leverage Vista's strategic and operational expertise, portfolio of resources, and strategic investment capital to continue to innovate and scale our platform." "We see tremendous opportunity in the consumer directed healthcare market, and Alegeus is leading the way," said Brian Sheth, President of Vista. "Their culture and commitment to excellent customer support, along with their strong track record of growth and performance, has psitioned Alegeus to continue creating value for its customers by providing innovative and powerful solutions that they depend on. We look forward to welcoming Alegeus into the Vista family and to working with the leadership team as they continue to build upon the strong foundation they have established."



"We have worked closely with Steve and the entire Alegeus management team, carving out the business from FIS, a global leader in fintech, and building an independent market leader in consumer directed healthcare," said Mark F. Vassallo, Managing Partner of Lightyear. "The investment in Alegeus reflects one of Lightyear's ongoing themes: identifying and pursuing outstanding companies located at the intersection of healthcare and payments. During our funds' ownership, we supported Alegeus' product innovation and value enhancement initiatives which accelerated growth and strengthened customer relationships. We'd like to thank the Alegeus team for their hard work and wish them continued success." The transaction is expected to close as soon as appropriate approvals are completed. BofA Merrill Lynch and TripleTree acted as financial advisors in the transaction, and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett acted as legal advisor to Alegeus. Kirkland & Ellis acted as legal advisor to Vista.

About Alegeus

Alegeus is the market leader in consumer directed healthcare (CDH) solutions, offering the industry's most comprehensive platform for the administration of healthcare benefit accounts (including FSAs, HSAs, HRAs, wellness incentive, dependent care, and commuter accounts), the industry's most widely-used benefit debit card, and powerful engagement solutions to help consumers maximize savings and optimize spending for their healthcare. Over 300 clients - including health insurance plans and third party administrators - leverage Alegeus' deep expertise and proven technology to administer benefit accounts for more than 30 million members and process more than $9.1 billion in consumer healthcare payments annually. As the healthcare and benefit markets continue to evolve, Alegeus delivers solutions that enable clients to evolve their service offerings, operate their businesses more efficiently, and focus on their customers. The company is headquartered in Waltham, MA with operations in Orlando, FL and Milwaukee, WI. For more information, please visit www.alegeus.com. About Vista Equity Partners

Vista Equity Partners, a U.S.-based investment firm with offices in Austin, San Francisco, Chicago, and Oakland with more than $31 billion in cumulative capital commitments, currently invests in software, data and technology-enabled organizations led by world-class management teams with long-term perspectives. Vista is a value-added investor, contributing professional expertise and multi-level support towards companies' realization of their full potential. Vista's investment approach is anchored by a sizable long-term capital base, experience in structuring technology-oriented transactions, and proven management techniques that yield flexibility and opportunity in private equity investing. For more information, please visit www.vistaequitypartners.com. About Lightyear Capital LLC

Founded in 2000, Lightyear Capital is a financial services-focused private equity firm based in New York. Through its affiliated private equity funds, Lightyear makes primarily control investments in North America-based, middle-market companies across the financial services spectrum, including asset and wealth management, banking, brokerage, healthcare financial services, insurance, payments and processing and specialty finance. The firm brings focus and discipline to its investment process, as well as operating, transaction and strategic management experience, along with significant contacts and resources beyond capital. For more information, please visit www.lycap.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005650/en/

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Envistacom Selected as Prime Contractor for $18 Million DAGRS Contract Vehicle Task Order to Support the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy

Envistacom today announced the company has been awarded a task order under the Army Contracting Command (ACC) Deployable Adaptive Global Responder Support (DAGRS) contract vehicle, expanding the Georgia-based defense contractor's rapidly growing partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense.

Envistacom is one of 10 companies selected to compete for task orders on the DAGRS Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract vehicle, worth up to $480 million over five years. Representing $18 million over three years, Envistacom will act as prime contractor under this most recent task order. To support both U.S. Army and U.S. Navy customers, Envistacom will satisfy requirements for engineering and technical assessment enhancements through rapid-prototyping initiatives.

In part, Envistacom will support task order contract requirements from the Duluth, Ga. Envistacom Innovation Center. The facility offers customers research and development capabilities, innovative engineering, and testing for solutions across counterterrorism, cyber and communications.

"We are honored to be selected as the prime contractor to help execute Envistacom's first task order under the U.S. Army's DAGRS IDIQ contract vehicle," said Alan Carson, senior vice president, Envistacom. "I'm proud of our experts, including Valerie Hayes, who continue to deliver creative solutions in response to complex task order requirements. I'm confident that together with the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy, our team will deliver an effective blend of strategy and technology to our warfighters and mission partners, and ultimately, help mae the world a safer place."







One of Georgia's fastest-growing private companies, Envistacom was recently honored as a top 10 Pacesetter by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, a Georgia Fast 40 winner by the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG), and recognized by the Atlanta Business Chronicle as a "Best Place to Work", claiming each honor for three consecutive years.

For more information on solutions or contract vehicles, follow Envistacom online at www.envistacom.com, and on Facebook, @Envistacom on Twitter (News - Alert) , as well as on LinkedIn and YouTube.

About Envistacom

Headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., Envistacom is a privately held, Hispanic woman-owned technology company that provides counterterrorism, cyber and communications solutions to U.S. and coalition partners in the aerospace, defense, and intelligence communities. Customers rely on Envistacom for innovative technology and subject-matter expertise to achieve their missions in identifying and defeating global threats. With more than six IDIQ contract vehicles in place and a presence in six U.S. states and 11 countries, Envistacom is a trusted partner in protecting military, civilians and critical infrastructure around the world. For more information, please visit www.envistacom.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005678/en/
[August 07, 2018] BridgeSat Announces Formation of Advisory Board and Appoints Members

BridgeSat, Inc. (BridgeSat) announced today the formation of an Advisory Board to assist in its mission of expanding use of optical communication to meet the increasing demands of satellite technology. The diversely experienced Advisory Board will oversee matters related to BridgeSat's growth and development as well as identify and capitalize on industry trends that emerge and impact the satellite sphere. The initial appointments are Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF, Ret., Douglas Loverro, DASD Space Policy, Ret., Sandra Magnus, PhD, Astronaut, Ret., and William Parker, DOS, Ret. Lt. Gen. David Deptula, Ret. served in the U.S. Air Force for more than 34 years of distinguished service. His last tour was as the Air Force's first Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance. He was the principal planner of the Desert Storm air campaign; commander of no-fly-zone operations in the late 1990s; director of the air campaign over Afghanistan in 2001; twice a joint task force commander; and the standing air component commander for Pacific Command in 2006.



"I am honored to be a part of the formation of BridgeSat's Advisory Board," said Deptula. "I look forward to bringing my experience in aerospace strategic development to navigate Bridgeat's growth." Douglas Loverro served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Space Policy, retiring in 2017. Before this, Loverro served as Executive Director for Air Force Space Command's Space and Missile Systems Center. His aerospace development accomplishments include inventing the supersonic chemical oxygen-iodine laser and initiating the Department of Defense's Global Broadcast service.







"BridgeSat is changing the way satellites will operate in the future, and I'm excited to offer my input and insight to such a forward-thinking company," stated Loverro. Dr. Sandra Magnus took flight with the crew of STS-119 Discover, returning to Earth in March of 2009 after 134 days in orbit. Magnus was also an engineer designing stealth aircraft for the Navy.



"I've had some incredible experiences in outer space, and I'm glad to be able to help BridgeSat from the ground," said Magnus. "This company is truly promoting the growth of satellite communications, and I look forward to guiding the future of space with this team." William Parker served for 31 years with the Department of State, ranking as Minister-Counselor, equivalent of Major General. He specialized in foreign services, accumulating a plethora of critical national security initiatives worldwide.





"The members of this Advisory Board, as well as the BridgeSat team are incredibly accomplished," stated Parker. "I can't wait to learn from the team and put our minds together for some of the most exciting innovations in space." CEO of BridgeSat, Barry Matsumori, stated, "I couldn't be more excited to work with the Advisory Board we've assembled at BridgeSat. These four individuals have long lists of accomplishments proving their knowledge, expertise and innovation in space technology and beyond. I look forward to their close involvement in the next phases of BridgeSat's growth." About BridgeSat BridgeSat is enabling the future of space using optical communications solutions through a global network of ground stations and space terminals. These systems will enable high bandwidth solutions for unique applications as well as complement RF in hybrid networks. BridgeSat has further developed applications for LEO and GEO satellite systems. More information can be found at www.bridgesatinc.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005725/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Global Voice Recognition Market Outlook 2018-2023 - CAGR to Grow at 16%: Analysis by Deployment Type, End-User and Region - ResearchAndMarkets.com

The "Global Voice Recognition Market - Segmented by Deployment Type (Cloud, On - Premise), End User (Banking, Telecommunications, Healthcare, Government, Consumer Applications), and Region - Growth, Trends and Forecasts (2018 - 2023)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Global Voice Recognition Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 16% during the forecast period (2018-2023). The scope of the report is limited to deployment type which includes Cloud, On-premise. The End-users considered in the scope of the report include Banking, Telecommunications, Healthcare, Government, and Consumer Applications. Voice based searches have been highly adopted by various consumer demographics. ComScore, an American Analytics Company predicted that 50% of the searches are estimated to be voice searches by 2020. The adoption of voice recognition technologies adds to the efficiency of various processes as an average person can speak about 150 words per minute while only 60 words can be typed in a minute on average. Google (News - Alert) has already released statistics according to which 70% of the searches have been made in natural or conversational language which inicate the scope for the adoption of voice recognition. Growing number of security attacks over the last few years, the most notable being Yahoo's data breach, which is considered to the biggest security breach of the 21st century, is also expected to boost the adoption of more secure authentication methods like voice based authentication.



Key Highlights Growing Security Concerns Drive the Market for Voice Recognition

Banking Expected to Be One of the Primary Recipients of the Technology

China Is Expected to Have High Growth for Voice Recognition Market Key Developments in Voice Recognition Market

March 2018: Voiximplant, a cloud communications platform has announced the launch of a web services platform which is capable of integrating voice recognition capabilities with outbound call campaigns. This enables businesses to design complex call scenarios with an easy to use editor which helps in productivity. Using smart calls has also been found to be three times less expensive compared to human resources. Key Topics Covered 1. Introduction 2. Research Methodology 3. Executive Summary 4. Voice Recognition Market Insights 5. Voice Recognition Market Dynamics 6. Technological Overview 7. Global Voice Recognition Market Segmentation 8. Voice Recognition Market - Key Vendor Profiles Nuance Communications

Agnitio (News - Alert) Corp

Auraya Systems

Brianasoft

VoiceBox Technologies

Fulcrum Biometrics

Neurotechnology

VoiceTrust

M2SYS Biometrics

Sensory, Inc.

VoiceBase Inc. 9. Voice Recognition Market Investment Analysis 10. Future of Voice Recognition Market For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/lm878t/global_voice?w=4 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005804/en/

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[August 07, 2018] CONVERGYS INVESTOR ALERT by the Former Attorney General of Louisiana: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Investigates Adequacy of Price and Process in Proposed Sale of Convergys Corporation

Former Attorney General of Louisiana Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq. and the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") are investigating the proposed sale of Convergys (News - Alert) Corporation ("Convergys") (NYSE: CVG) to SYNNEX Corporation ("SYNNEX") (NYSE: SNX). Under the terms of the proposed transaction, shareholders of Convergys will receive only $13.25 in cash and 0.1193 shares of SYNNEX (News - Alert) for each share of Convergys that they own. KSF is seeking to determine whether this consideration and the process that led to it are adequate, or whether the consideration undervalues the Company. If you believe that this transaction undervalues the Company and/or if you would like to discuss your legal rights regarding the prposed sale, you may, without obligation or cost to you, e-mail or call KSF Managing Partner Lewis S. Kahn (lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) toll free at any time at 855-768-1857, or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-cvg/ to learn more.



To learn more about KSF, whose partners include the Former Louisiana Attorney General, visit www.ksfcounsel.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005807/en/

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BMA NOTICE: Rosen Law Firm Continues to Investigate Securities Claims Against Banco Macro S.A. - BMA

Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces it is continuing to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of Banco Macro S.A. (NYSE:BMA) resulting from allegations that Banco Macro may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.

On December 7, 2017, Bloomberg (News - Alert) reported that Banco Macro Chairman Jorge Horacio Brito was the subject of a corruption scandal involving former Argentine Vice President Amado Boudou. According to the article, Boudou had been charged with "illicit enrichment for allegedly using shell companies and secret middlemen to gain control of a company given contracts to print the national currency." The article identified Banco Macro's Chairman Brito as one of those middlemen. The investigation concerns whether Banco Macro's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the " SEC (News - Alert) ") contained untrue statements of material facts or omitted material information.

Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action lawsuit to recover losses suffered by Banco Macro investors. If you purchsed shares of Banco Macro please visit the firm's website at http://www.rosenlegal.com/cases-1356.html to join the class action. You may also contact Phillip Kim or Zachary Halper of Rosen Law Firm toll free at 866-767-3653 or via email at pkim@rosenlegal.com or zhalper@rosenlegal.com.







Follow us for updates on LinkedIn (News - Alert) : https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter (News - Alert) : https://twitter.com/rosen_firm.

Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 3 each year since 2013.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005820/en/
[August 07, 2018] Reliant Bank Names Richard Stone as Market President for Rutherford County

Reliant Bank has announced the addition of Richard Stone as Senior Vice President, Rutherford County Market President. Stone will guide Reliant's expansion into the Rutherford County market and serve as the executive face of the brand. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005816/en/ Richard Stone, Named SVP, Market President for Reliant Bank Rutherford County (Photo: Business Wire) Stone is a senior banking professional with 20 years of experience in the financial services industry. He is steeped in customer service attributes with strengths in relationship development, financial structuring and creating operational efficiencies. Community banking, commercial banking and wealth management are specific areas of expertise. In addition, Stone is a community development advocate - currently serving on theLeadership Middle Tennessee Board, MTSU National Alumni Board, Murfreesboro Electric Department Board, and the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties Development Committee.



"As a new bank in Rutherford County, we recognize the importance of bringing a strong community-focused leader on board. Richard's extensive skillset and experience make him an excellent addition to Reliant's leadership team. His connectivity and knowledge of the local market will be a key driver in achieving growth initiatives," said John Wilson, Executive Vice President and Chief Loan Officer of Reliant Bank. "Reliant Bank has a strong record of service within its communities," said Stone, a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University. "I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to deepen and extend Reliant Bank's impact in the Rutherford County market."

Before joining Reliant, Stone worked with JP Morgan (News - Alert) Chase & Co. in their Middle Market Banking and Specialized Industry group - working with companies of varying sizes and complexities, from small family-owned businesses to large publicly-traded companies. He previously served as Senior Vice President for Avenue Bank prior to their acquisition by Pinnacle Financial Partners. About Reliant Bancorp and Reliant Bank Reliant Bancorp, Inc. is a Brentwood, Tennessee-based bank holding company which operates banking centers in Davidson, Robertson, Sumner, Williamson, Maury and Hickman counties, Tennessee along with loan and deposit production offices in Rutherford and Hamilton counties, Tennessee, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Reliant Bank. Reliant Bank is a full-service commercial bank that offers a variety of deposit, lending and mortgage products and services to business and consumer customers. As of June 30, 2018, Reliant Bancorp had approximately $1.7 billion in total assets, approximately $1.1 billion in loans and approximately $1.3 billion in deposits. For additional information, locations and hours of operation, please visit their website at reliantbank.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005816/en/

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[August 07, 2018] Rapid Prototype Manufacturer WayKen Looking to Expand Business Opportunities by Embracing Latest Technologies

SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- WayKen, one of the most reputable prototype manufacturers from China, recently announced at a press conference that the key to growing their business both inside China and overseas is the technologies they embrace and deploy. In China, WayKen is one of the most specialized manufacturers for high-end prototype and low-volume production. The company recently announced that in order to ensure robust growth and to gain good traction in Chinese and overseas prototyping market, they would embrace the latest technologies and expand the manufacture scale. The owners of the company added that they have been deploying advanced technologies since the inception. The prototyping technologies that the company use now are CNC prototype machining, CNC aluminum machining, clear optical prototypes, rapid prototyping SLA & SLS, urethane vacuum casting, prototype finishing and painting, and rapid injection molding. Meanwhile, WayKen has added more high precision equipment and improved critical processes in manufacturing, including high precision 5-axis machines and the latest diamond machining technology (SPDM or SPDT), for prototyping complex designs and meeting most difficult manufacturing challenges. The owners said that in the coming days, the organization will continue to focus on upgrading their rapid prototyping, CNC machining and rapid tooling tehnologies. "We are one of the most trusted prototyping service providers in China and we aim to help our customers at all the stages of a product development by offering rapid prototyping services. Delivering quality services is as important as embracing new technologies. We have already invested in new-age technologies and we will continue to hold on to our competitive edge in the days to come," said a top sales and marketing executive of WayKen at a recent press conference.



"From day one, the core objective of the company was to become a competitive prototype manufacturer in China and worldwide. We are not just a prototype shop, but our full-spectrum manufacturing facility backed by the advanced technologies and the right management are the key to our continued success. We are now looking to supply affordable and quality prototypes overseas as well," added the executive. When it came to WayKen's prototypes process, he pointed out, for any order, no matter for medical devices or automotive prototypes, WayKen has developed an efficient, accurate and cost-effective process system to deliver superior results, and are capable of providing one-stop surface finishing operations. And when asked about the future prospect, he said that WayKen had invested in an independent injection molding factory with various materials and techniques for low volume manufacturing business. He indicated that in the near future, WayKen would pay more attention to low volume production.

At last, he shared that with rich experience and advanced technologies in automotive prototyping, WayKen is proud and honoured to provide comprehensive rapid manufacturing solutions for some of the world's leading automotive companies, such as BWM, Bentley Motors, Volkswagen, Audi and Skoda. "Our biggest asset is our customer base, which has grown rapidly through customer's word-of-mouth around the world; amongst them, it covers from independent inventors or designers to large scale Industrial, Commercial, Medical, Automotive and even Aerospace companies." About the Company WayKen is a leading manufacturer of rapid prototypes, having its offices in China. To know more, visit https://www.waykenrm.com View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rapid-prototype-manufacturer-wayken-looking-to-expand-business-opportunities-by-embracing-latest-technologies-300693425.html SOURCE WayKen

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[August 07, 2018] Leidos Awarded Social Security Administration Contracts for Office of Software Engineering and Disability Case Processing System

RESTON, Va., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Leidos (NYSE: LDOS), a FORTUNE 500 science and technology leader, has been selected by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to support its Office of Software Engineering (OSE) and the Disability Case Processing System (DCPS). These two task orders were awarded under its new IDIQ Information Technology Support Services Contract (ITSSC) with SSA. The two task order awards have a combined potential value of $639 million, with a base period through the end of September, 2018 and four one-year options following to support SSA through 2022. The OSE focuses on developing and providing software systems and services the business community requires to provide first-class service to the American public. Under the OSE task order, Leidos will support lifecycle activities for software improvement and web/interface design including design alternatives, user-centered design, development, integration, implementation, and deployment for waterfall, hybrid and agile methodologies. The DCPS mission is streamlining and simplifying the disability claims process. Through this contract, Leidos will provide the expertise, technical knowledge, IT support personnel, and other related resources necessary for the SSA's DCPS program to continue its Agile-based development, and to simplify and modernize the Operations and Maintenance support necessary to improve the overall program process. "With this contract, Leidos is continuing its support of the Social Security Administration's modernization efforts by improving software capabilities and helping provide efficient and thorough review of disability claims," said Senior Vice President Doreen Cohen, Leidos Civil Health. "Our work in support of the Social Security Administration allows us to bring forward the best technologies, processes and people to position the agency for the future." This award continues the company's 29-year history of delivering solutions for the SSA's mission to provide financial protection for Americans. Previously, Leidos supported the SSA under its earlier ITSSC contract, a similar program that provides strategic and tactical planning and project management service to the SSA. The ITSSC software engineers provide new development support on a variety of platforms using a number of software languages. About Leidos

Leidos is a Fortune 500 information technology, engineering, and science solutions and services leader working to solve the world's toughest challenges in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, civil, and health markets. The company's 31,000 employees support vital missions for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $10.17 billion for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2017. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com. Statements in this announcement, other than historical data and information, constitute forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements, or industry results to be very different from the results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Some of these factors include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 29, 2017, and other such filings that Leidos makes with the SEC from time to time. Due to such uncertainties and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.







Contact: Melissa Koskovich Jason Kello

(571) 526-6850 (571) 526-6011

Koskovichm@Leidos.com Jason.Kello@leidos.com

View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/leidos-awarded-social-security-administration-contracts-for-office-of-software-engineering-and-disability-case-processing-system-300693439.html SOURCE Leidos

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[August 07, 2018] Salesforce Announces Timing of its Second Quarter Fiscal 2019 Results Conference Call

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Salesforce (NYSE: CRM), the global leader in CRM, today announced that its second quarter fiscal 2019 results will be released on Wednesday, August 29, 2018, after the close of the market. The company will host a conference call at 2:00 p.m. (PT) / 5:00 p.m. (ET) to discuss its financial results with the investment community. A live webcast of the event will be available on the Salesforce Investor Relations website at www.salesforce.com/investor. A live dial-in is available domestically at 866-901-SFDC or 866-901-7332 and internationally at 706-902-1764, passcode 1193487. A replay will b available at (800) 585-8367 or (855) 859-2056 until midnight (ET) September 28, 2018.





About Salesforce

Salesforce, the global leader in CRM, empowers companies to connect with their customers in a whole new way. Salesforce has headquarters in San Francisco, with offices in Europe and Asia, and trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "CRM." For more information about Salesforce, visit: www.salesforce.com. View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/salesforce-announces-timing-of-its-second-quarter-fiscal-2019-results-conference-call-300693460.html SOURCE Salesforce

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The company was found in Sweden in 1947 and today offers fashion for everyone under the brands of H&M, COS, Monki, Weekday, Cheap Monday and & Other Stories, as well as fashion for the home at H&M Home.
[August 07, 2018] Valley Medical Center Foundation Achieves Highest Certification for Nonprofit Ethics

The Valley Medical Center Foundation has become the only nonprofit charity organization in California to achieve the Standards for Excellence Institute "Seal of Excellence", the nation's highest level of accreditation for nonprofit governance and ethics. The designation comes after a year-long process to test compliance with Standards for Excellence: An Ethics and Accountability Code for the Nonprofit Sector, with specific measures for honesty, integrity, fairness, respect, trust, responsibility and accountability. "The number one commodity we have is donor trust," said VMC Foundation CEO Chris Wilder. "We felt the best way to honor that trust was to put ourselves to the test and see if we are worthy of it. And we just aced that test." The process to achieve the accreditation was exhaustive, involving the entire VMC Foundation Board of Directors and staff. And that is by design. The full scope of the organization was tested, well beyond the annual audit typical of most nonprofit organizations. To do so, the Standards for Excellence Institute drew upon its cohort of 80 licensed consultants and 100 volunteer nonprofit professionals to review all aspects of the VMC Foundation's governance and operations. That included an examination of financial policies, employment policies, strategic plan and code of ethics. It also measured how prepared the organization is for the unexpected, from a natural disaster to sudden departure of the CEO. "This is about making sure that we have systems in place that will guide the organization no matter who works here," said Wilder. "This is ultimately about protecting our donors' money. Good intentions only go so far. We want to institutionalize systems and a culture that promotes transparency and integrity in all that we do." As part of the compliance process, over 25 new policies were drafted and approved by the VMC Foundation Board of Directors, with the application itself comprising 649 pages of content. The process touched on issues such as diversity, gender discrimination andracism that are roiling many American workplaces.



"I'm most proud of our new Cultural Humility Policy that address head-on our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion," said Wilder. "That came out of this process, and we are a much stronger organization for it." Though the VMC Foundation is an independent agency, its mission is to serve as the fundraising arm of the County of Santa Clara Health System and its flagship public hospital, Santa Clara Valley Medical Center. Those are public entities and subject to meticulous oversight. Wilder wanted the same for the VMC Foundation.

"Our work reflects on the County of Santa Clara and Santa Clara Valley Medical Center," said Wilder. "We have to be held to a high standard." This achievement would not have been possible without the support of the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics at Santa Clara University, which worked directly with the Standards for Excellence Institute to promote the accreditation program to Silicon Valley organizations. "The Markkula Center reviewed programs nationwide before becoming a replication partner for the Standards for Excellence Institute," said Joan Harrington, Assistant Director of Social Sector Ethics at the Markkula Center. "This is the most rigorous and meaningful certification program in the social sector. We are so pleased that the VMC Foundation stepped up as a leader in Silicon Valley." The Markkula Center is keen on seeing more organizations apply as a way to strengthen the local nonprofit sector, and to give potential donors a new tool to seek out philanthropy partners. Wilder hopes to support that effort. "Volvo famously did not patent their seatbelt," Wilder said. "I hope to share lessons learned with other organizations and help them apply, because we want to send a message to our donor community that the nonprofit sector in Silicon Valley is driven by the highest standards for ethics." About Valley Medical Center Foundation The Valley Medical Center Foundation is an independent, community-driven 501c3 nonprofit organization founded to support Silicon Valley's most vital public health institution - Santa Clara Valley Medical Center Hospitals & Clinics. In partnership with SCVMC, the VMC Foundation raises philanthropic dollars to improve existing services, pioneer new models of care, and advance the cause of high quality healthcare for all. To learn more, visit www.vmcfoundation.org. About Standards for Excellence Institute The Standards for Excellence originated as a special initiative of Maryland Nonprofits in 1998 and has since expanded into a national program to help nonprofit organizations achieve the highest benchmarks of ethics and accountability in nonprofit governance, management and operations. The program is offered by eleven state, regional and national affiliate organizations, and is supported by nearly 80 Licensed Consultants and over 100 volunteers with professional experience in nonprofit governance and administration. Since its inception, the program has accredited or recognized over 200 individual nonprofit organizations that completed a rigorous application and review process to demonstrate adherence to the Standards for Excellence: An Ethics and Accountability Code for the Nonprofit Sector. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005937/en/

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If there were any more surprises ahead for Samsung's upcoming Unpacked event, they're now officially gone.



(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

A Reddit user who goes by the name Wan997 has published a list of some of the extras we could expect from Samsung's event. And some of the items match up with the many rumors we've been hearing.

For instance, the user says that the Galaxy Note 9 pre-order comes with either a pair of wireless AKG noise-canceling headphones or a Fortnite gaming package. And if you want both, you'll pay $99.

MORE: Samsung Galaxy Note 9 Rumors: Release Date, Specs and More

Samsung is planning to sell its S Pen stylus in different colors, according to the Reddit user, and after charging it for just 40 seconds, the S Pen will last 30 minutes. The person also says that the S Pen's button will double as a shutter button for snapping photos (presumably via Bluetooth) and the color you choose for the S Pen will be the same color "of your off-screen memo font."

According to the user, Samsung is planning a 6.4-inch screen in the Galaxy Note 9. Its camera will have artificial intelligence features to optimize camera settings based on the subject, and in order to turn the Galaxy Note 9 into a DeX computer, all you'll need is an HDMI cable, according to Wan997.

Of course, we've heard many of these reports over the last several months. And by the look of things, Samsung is trying to use the extras, like the S Pen, to boost the Galaxy Note 9's appeal. All signs are pointing to few major updates this year, and there's a good chance that the Galaxy Note 9 will look nearly identical to last year's Galaxy Note 8.

But Wan997 wasn't done spilling the beans.

He also said that Samsung is expected to showcase its Galaxy Watch at the Unpacked event. The smartwatch, which had previously been known as the Gear S4 in rumor circles, could come in 46mm and 42mm case sizes. It'll also feature a rose gold color and could last seven days on a single charge, according to the leaker. It'll come with near-field communication technology for Samsung Pay support and will have 40 workout modes to use while you're at the gym.

One other tidbit: Wan997 says that all of the other leaks about the Galaxy Note 9 and Galaxy Watch are "mostly correct." Samsung is planning to hold its Unpacked event on Aug. 9. At this point, there appears to be little chance of big surprises.
I'm the strongest Senate candidate against Sen. McCaskill: Austin Petersen Missouri Senate candidate Austin Petersen discusses the problems surrounding universal health care and why he feels that he will win the U.S. Senate primary in Missouri.

Here's one more look at an alternative voice speaking to Missouri Conservatives who are considering straying away from the status quo.Checkit:
Trump's Kobach endorsement could cost the GOP a governor's race in red Kansas Kobach is one of the least popular politicians in Kansas. Kobach had a net favorability rating of -17 points in a 2018 poll from Fort Hays State University.

A recent tweet could tip the scales against Republicans who have often elected Democratic Guvs in the not-so-distant past.Read more . . .
MAYOR SLY & THE KCPD CHIEF BLAMING FAILED GUN CONTROL EFFORTS FOR THE UPTICK IN KANSAS CITY HOMICIDE & SHOOTING HAS EARNED NEARLY UNIVERSAL REBUKE FROM LOCAL VOTERS VIA INTERNETS COMMENTS & SOCIAL MEDIA!!!

Mayor Sly James, KCPD Chief Rick Smith call on lawmakers for gun laws in Missouri KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Mayor Sly James and KCPD Chief Rick Smith are teaming up to push for gun laws in Missouri. "We don't have the ability to require a background check. We don't have the ability to tell people if your gun is stolen out of your car or your home or you lose it, that you have to report it to the police.

but it deserves another look and quick round-up . . .More than anything, it's a passive, weak and ineffectual stance that doesn't inspire confidence . . . It's as if two of the most powerful leaders in KCMO got together and said:We welcome a defense of thisbut at the end of one tenure and the beginning of another . . . The defeatist talking point seemed exceptionally weak by most accounts.
CHECK BOTH TERRIBLE SIDES OF KANSAS CITY QUESTION 1 BAD CHOICES!!!

few of these professional protesters have ever rented property

mistakenly endorse giving far too much power to KCMO inspectors

Question 1 WILL spark higher rents.

Low income renters across KCMO complain of landlord threats in the lead up to this election.

voter intimidation

scare tactics about "warrantless" searches

The false narrative put forward in this debate is that a vote either way will help the plight of the working poor. Moreover, none of this discussion regarding affordable housing accounts for MILLIONS WORTH OF TAXPAYER SUBSIDY OFFERED TO PROVIDE HIGH-PRICED HOUSING FOR THE RICHEST RESIDENTS IN KANSAS CITY. While broke-ass landlords & renters fight a political war today, earning City Hall subsidy for luxury living space isn't much of a struggle for developers who are openly courted and pampered by elected officials who regularly engage in duplicitous double talk on the topic of housing.

Higher rents are going to make life worse for the working poor and City Hall will continue to use taxpayer cash to finance upscale developers no matter what option Kansas City voters choose on the "Question 1: Healthy Homes" Initiative.To wit . . .First up, social justice warrior advocacy . . .- What's unfortunate is thatand have no idea about the thin margins required to make a profit. Of course, they're entitled to adversarial rhetoric which seems to argue for nothing less than free rent.- Local housing advocates are downplaying the real costs for property owners who get dinged and. Personal beef and sob stories could end up in financial ruin for any landlord on the wrong side of a meritless complaint.The activists acknowledge that rents are going up anyway. Sadly, their only solution is to further regulate the supply of housing stock and limit even more options for the working poor. Even worse, because they don't know anything about the real estate biz, few of these activists understand "risk ratio" impacting apartment financing that will spike prices for every renter in KCMO if/when question 1 passes.- Sure everybody loves to hate SJWs but landlords on a political crusade are even worse and far more callous.Nobody likes their landlord but this decision reveals thatis commonplace for many working poor local residents.- The landlord and their out-of-state financiers are fabricating fear when they use. It's an outright deception and the explanations of the campaign tactic are cringe-y and extrapolated beyond any reasonable doubt.There are many landlords who deserved to be forced out of the local market and while they're entitled to make their argument . . . Their defense doesn't inspire much confidence in the real estate free market that's filled with greedy & cruel operators.Even worse . . .You decide . . .
TANZANIA and Kenya are today marking the 20th year since Al-Qaeda-linked terrorists bombed the US embassies in Dar es Salaam and Nairobi, killing 224 people and injuring 5,000 others.

In Dar es Salaam, Home Affairs Minister Kangi Lugola is expected to preside over the event. An official at the embassy told the Daily News in a telephone interview that the reminiscence mass that includes laying the wreath to the memorial edifice that was erected at the National Museum grounds in Kijitonyama area will also be attended by some of the victims of the August 7, 1998 bomb attacks.

We also expect high ranking government officials to attend the memorial event as well as relatives of the 11 people who died in the Dar es Salaam blast, which also injured 70 others, said the official.

All the victims of the 1998 Dar blasts were passers-by who were caught unaware by the explosions, which occurred in the bustling city at broad daylight. Similar arrangements are reportedly taking place in the neighbouring Kenya where the simultaneous bomb attack hit the US Embassy in Nairobi, more severely.

The Nairobi attack left 213 people dead, with around 5,000 wounded. Most of the victims were passers-by and workers in the nearby buildings, with 44 people, including 12 Americans killed within the embassy building itself.

The August 7 huge backto- back bomb blasts that rocked the US embassies in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam left 224people dead and 5,000 injured. The incidences introduced the then notorious Al Qaeda terror group and its frontman, the late Osama Bin Laden.

The attacks on US operations in Kenya and Tanzania were described as the prelude to even more deadly September 11, 2001 plane-bombing of the World Trade Centres twin towers in New- York City.

Member states of the East African Community (EAC) forged the EAC Co-operation in Defence, offering great scope and prospects for the consolidation of East African regional integration, unity, peace, stability and strength to defend the countries common interests.

Reports from the EAC Headquarters here reveal that under EAC, the military forces from member states conduct joint field training exercises, while the defence sector organises EAC military games and cultural events.

The aim is to enhance wider cooperation in defence and confidence building among partner states armed forces, with a view to increasing and strengthening sustainable peace and security in the region.

The sector has also spearheaded the establishment of Senior Command and Staff Colleges in all the partner states and is as well building academic capacities of the military officers for Command and Staff Colleges.

The EAC partner states have agreed to use defence technical facilities offered for joint utilisation among themselves.
Hofeld said he didnt know how many overdue citations were eligible for the discount or how much in uncollected fines were outstanding, but that he hoped people take advantage of the unique opportunity to get their debts off the books.
BLOODY AUGUST

While Kansas City police can't explain it, this was another busy weekend for detectives - the latest spike in gun crime over the last few weeks. Since last Wednesday afternoon alone, 24 people have been shot and five have died. None of the crimes seems to be connected.




Kansas City Gunfire Push Back

The Rant with Brad Stephens: Viewers sound off on violence in Kansas City Mayor Sly James held a news conference to talk about the current rash of violence that is plaguing our streets.

Car Crash Aftermath

Erratic driver damages seven properties in North Kansas City subdivision Neighbors in a North Kansas City subdivision were forced to take cover due to an erratic driver ramming through several properties before coming to a stop. The driver had a medical emergency and was behind the wheel of that out of control vehicle.

Urban Core Suspect Comeuppance???

Kansas City Poll Position

Metro poll workers offer last-minute tips for voters for primary election KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- "We're ready," Johnson County Election Commissioner Ronnie Metsker said. Poll workers on both sides of the state line spent Monday making sure all of the voting equipment is ready to go for what they predict to be high voter turnout for an August primary.

Boozy Local Newz

At Freshwater, Nicole Elizabeth Dearing Curates a Hyper-Local Bar Program Nicole Elizabeth Dearing learned to make from-scratch craft cocktails at some of the best bars in the city, including Manifesto, and developed the very first cocktail menu at Cafe Sebastienne. Now, Dearing is spearheading the hyper-local bar program at Freshwater, working alongside chef-owner Calvin Davis to create drinks that complement the cuisine.

KCMO Soggy Voting Day

Forecast: Heavy rain, lightening expected during morning storms Heavy rain, brief wind gusts and lightning are expected to start the day. We have a 70-percent chance for storms today, mainly this morning with highs in the lower 80s by later this afternoon.

Cubs Clobber Kansas City Royals

Game CXII Thread - The Adolescent Bears of Chicago versus the Royals of Kansas City Game one of what sure looks on paper to be another series sweep that the Royals may be subjected to starts tonight with Cole "Don't Call Me Jason" Hamels squaring off against Jakob "Ceder of Dongs" Junis. With this powerful Cubs lineup, Junis could be in for a messy night.

First we start with fashion hotness and finance . . .Closer to home, here's more than a few local links to start the day . . .is the song of the day and this is thefor right now . . .
DEMOCRATIC PARTY VOTERS IN JOCO & WYCO MUST DECIDE BETWIXT A NATIVE AMERICAN LESBIAN MMA FIGHTER VS. HALF-COMMIE!!!

Muddling Pitch Consideration Of Today's Vote Is All Over The Place

The race for the Kansas Third feels a lot like 2016 A crowded, confusing Democratic primary will come to a close Tuesday for Kansas's third congressional district. The six-person field features all shades of blue. Progressives and centrists and corporate Dems and even a democratic socialist. It remains unclear, at both the national and state levels, which of these flavors of Democrat are best suited to take on the Kevin Yoders of the world.

Better Biz News Juxtaposition

An unusually crowded House race in Republican Kansas is as risky for Democrats as it is for the GOP Source: Brent Welder for Congress Six Democrats in Kansas are vying this week to challenge a Republican incumbent in an unusually crowded primary for a typically safe GOP seat, in the latest test of whether Democrats in red states will embrace left-wing ideals.

The choice for Democratic Party denizens in the Kansas 3rd District is more interesting than any other race in the metro . . .Honestly, that's a better match-up than most of the local GOP slapfights featuring white dudes with slightly differing haircuts.And so, we wanted to share a double take on the struggle to lose to incumbent Congressman Yoder as he sits on a pile of money and pretends to care . . .You decide . . .
"Free Speech isn't under attack, it is slowly, inexorably, irrefutably being eliminated by the Silicone Valley nouveau riche who "KNOW BETTER THAN YOU"."









TENS OF THOUSANDS OF VISITORS TO THIS BLOG EVERY DAY!!!

A concern among more than a few denizens of our blog community tonight and a word from one of the best & brightest readers among our blog community . . .Check the links:The reality is that access to Internets outlets isn't a right, most often it's a collaborative agreement with larger providers.Moreover, we're not sure we agree with cutesy remarks that "TKC is the Alex Jones of Kansas City" given that we've neveror lizard people and we discuss local shooting rather than deny that they happen. The roots of TKC are in community journalism and our aspirations direct us toward rags like Page 6 & Brit tabloids . . . Neither of which are leveraged by social media access like Infowars. Truth be told, the page performs far better as a blog than on any other outlet and we're happy to have the support ofBut things change and nothing is forever.The course of any local election could threaten to take TKC down along with the whims of frustrated politicos. Thankfully, more media competitors are local and their influence is fading every day.Our blog champions free speech and proves to be the best place for local commentary, over the past year we've crack down against SPAM because it was mostly just waged by haters in an attempt to create false flag arguments against our blog community. And there is the main point,. . . And Alex Jones is more of a personality.Not trying to be humble but I realize most people visit this blog to read and make comments not because of any brilliance shared within the content body of posts.And so, TKC endures and abides for as long as humanly possible and whilst alternative media suffers severe push back from the mainstream.Developing . . .
15 polling places impacted by power outages in Jackson County Power has returned to areas in Blue Springs and the Waldo area of Kansas City, Missouri, but KMBC 9 confirmed 15 polling stations in Jackson County were impacted by the outage. Jackson County Democratic Election Director Corey Dillon said eight of the 15 impacted polling stations are back online.

The grid goes down just in time for the public to vote on the dumpster fire that is local government at the Courthouse.Read more:
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Several major businesses in the Kansas City area are calling for the trade war to end. The call comes two months after President Donald Trump placed tariffs on imported steel and aluminum. The Trump administration is putting tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada, Mexico, and the European Union in an effort to crack down on alleged trade abuses.
SHARE YOUR KICK-ASS PRIMARY PREDICTIONS TONIGHT!!!

Will Labor Win Against Missouri Right To Work???

KCMO SJWs Rage Against Rent . . .

Time To Decide Kobach Career Fate . . .

And so . . .

Tonight we want to check the smarts of ourand ask for predictions for the start of the horrible Midterm election season.To wit . . .Just a bit of inspiration . . .As much as any other local vote, thiswill test the power of the most influential Democratic Party supporters.Activists. . . There hasn't been enough discussion of this measure that could impact local living spaces across the metro more than anybody suspects.Establishment GOP confronts the right-wing & Prez Trump for this prairie fight for the heart & soul of the Republican Party.We look forward to checking these opinions at the tail end of a BIG-ASS day for Democracy tomorrow . . .
Finding the right car for you isnt exactly easy. From horsepower to mpg, interior room to standard equipment, theres a lot to take in and consider. Of course, doing your homework is critical to finding that perfect ride, and luckily, if youre looking for something under the $20K-mark, weve got you covered right here.

Everything you need without breaking the bank

Although its matched up against well-established (and more expensive) competition, the Kia Forte still manages to hold its own.

Although its matched up against well-established competition from the likes of Toyota and Honda, the Kia Forte still manages to hold its own and go toe to toe with more expensive models in the segment, and as a result, its racked up a huge number of sales in the U.S. market.

The latest third generation was recently introduced for the 2019 model year, gaining both a sharper exterior style and a more luxurious interior spec. Offered in both a hatchback and coupe body style, we think the Forte is definitely much more attractive this time around, especially with regards to the cues taken from the hot-to-trot Kia Stinger GT. LED lighting adds a premium touch, and the exterior dimensions are a bit bigger as well.

Inside, theres an upright infotainment screen on top of a two-tier dash, plus some chrome trim. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay add infotainment goodness, while cargo space is rated at 15.1 cubic feet, which is pretty good for the segment. It also gets a number of high-tech safety systems, all of which helped it to achieve a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS for 2019.

Power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which makes upwards of 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. Previous model years also included a 164-horsepower option, while the SX hatch offers a turbo 1.6-liter four-banger doling out 201 horses. Be advised though, if you do go for the turbo, pricing jumps to nearly $24,000.

Transmission options include a six-speed manual and a new IVT, or Intelligent Variable Transmission, which is similar to a traditional Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), but comes with less of the usual rubber band feel normally associated with the transmission type. Fuel returns are estimated at a combined 35 mpg.

Price: $16,800

2018 Kia Forte LX $16,800 2018 Kia Forte S $19,400 2018 Kia Forte EX $21,700 2018 Kia Forte5 LX $18,300 2018 Kia Forte5 EX $22,200 2018 Kia Forte5 SX $23,900

Read our full review of the 2019 Kia Forte.

The Elantra looks to be many things to most people, and impressively, it makes it work.

The Hyundai Elantra is another one of those plucky outliers geared to take on more established rivals. So far, Hyundai has found a good deal of success with the Elantra, posting figures that make the nameplate one of its best-sellers.

The latest sixth-generation debuted at the 2016 Los Angeles Auto show, bringing more refined styling thanks to drawn-back, narrow headlight housings, and a hexagonal central intake. The interior is also quite refined, offering up a pair of heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through a 7.0-inch touchscreen.

Providing the motivation is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, which is identical to the Forte. However, if you wanna save at the pump, theres also the 128-horsepower Eco trim that manages upwards of 40 mpg on the highway. Transmission options include a six-speed manual as standard, with a six-speed automatic and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic rounding out the options list.

Indeed, the Elantra looks to be many things to most people, and impressively, it makes it work.

Price: $16,950

2018 Hyundai Elantra M/T 2.0L 4-cylinder 6-speed Manual Transmission $16,950 2018 Hyundai Elantra SE 2.0L 4-cylinder 6-speed Automatic Transmission with SHIFTRONIC $17,950 2018 Hyundai Elantra SE 2.0L 4-cylinder SULEV 6-speed Automatic Transmission with SHIFTRONIC $17,950 2018 Hyundai Elantra SEL 2.0L 4-cylinder 6-speed Automatic Transmission with SHIFTRONIC $18,850 2018 Hyundai Elantra SEL 2.0L 4-cylinder SULEV 6-speed Automatic Transmission with SHIFTRONIC $18,850 2018 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition 2.0L 4-cylinder 6-speed Automatic Transmission with SHIFTRONIC $19,850 2018 Hyundai Elantra Value Edition 2.0L 4-cylinder SULEV 6-speed Automatic Transmission with SHIFTRONIC $19,850 2018 Hyundai Elantra Eco 1.4L Turbo GDI 4-cylinder 7-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch Transmission w/ SHIFTRONIC $20,550 2018 Hyundai Elantra Limited 2.0L 4-cylinder 6-speed Automatic Transmission with SHIFTRONIC $22,100 2018 Hyundai Elantra Limited 2.0L 4-cylinder SULEV 6-speed Automatic Transmission with SHIFTRONIC $22,100 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport 1.6L Turbo GDI 4-cylinder 6-speed Manual Transmission $21,800 2018 Hyundai Elantra Sport 1.6L Turbo GDI 4-cylinder 7-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch Transmission w/ SHIFTRONIC $22,900

Read our full review of the 2018 Hyundai Elantra.

The Cruze is a quiet, comfortable, and well-equipped little compact with just the right stuff to help you along in your daily commute.

The Cruze is a quiet, comfortable, and well-equipped little compact from the Bow Tie badge, offering just the right stuff to help you along in your daily commute.

Chevy dropped the second generation for the 2016 model year, blessing the nameplate with more space and fresh looks. More recently, the Cruze received a mid-cycle facelift for the 2019 model year, with updates including the addition of the more-affordable LS trim level in a hatchback body style, as well as a new third-generation MyLink infotainment platform, and a refresh for the sportier RS package. Chevy is also ditching the six-speed manual transmission option moving forward, replacing each of the three-pedaled models with automatic iterations.

Inside, you get a 7.0-inch touchscreen and an available 8.0-inch option, with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay both equipped as standard. Theres also optional Wi-Fi, plus available safety and convenience tech like lane keep assist, forward collision alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind spot zone alert. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel add even more loveliness.

Under the hood, the Cruze gets a 1.4-liter four-cylinder, which produces upwards of 153 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. The run to 60 mph takes about 8 seconds, while fill-ups will net you a combined 32 mpg. Theres also a turbodiesel engine option if you crave even more fuel efficiency. And, as previously mentioned, the old models came with a six-speed manual, but a six-speed automatic should be the only transmission option with the arrival of the 2019 model year.

Chevy has yet to release pricing for the latest Cruze, but weve listed the outgoing models MSRP below for reference all the same.

Price: $17,850

2018 Chevroler Cruze L Manual $17,850 2018 Chevroler Cruze LS Manual $19,400 2018 Chevroler Cruze LS Automatic $20,400 2018 Chevroler Cruze LT Manual $21,795 2018 Chevroler Cruze LT Hatch Manual $22,195 2018 Chevroler Cruze LT Automatic $22,395 2018 Chevroler Cruze LT Hatch Automatic $22,795 2018 Chevroler Cruze Premier Automatic $24,395 2018 Chevroler Cruze Diesel Manual $24,695 2018 Chevroler Cruze Premier Hatch Automatic $24,895 2018 Chevroler Cruze Diesel Automatic $26,295 2018 Chevroler Cruze Diesel Hatch Manual $26,395 2018 Chevroler Cruze Diesel Hatch Automatic $26,795

Read our full review of the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze.

Nissan Sentra

If you feel the need for extra output, opt into the SR Turbo trim level, which ditches the 1.8-liter in favor of a boosted 1.6-liter four-cylinder.

The Sentra is Nissans take on the compact sedan segment, and it comes loaded with more standard equipment for the 2018 model year. Standout features include a rear backup camera, automatic emergency braking, automatic headlights, and a 5.0-inch display for the cabin.

Higher in the range, you can get good stuff like 17-inch alloys, a Bose audio system, a moonroof, leather upholstery, and more. Its also worth mentioning the Sentra offers a good amount of space inside, including room for passengers and cargo.

The Sentras standard spec equips a 1.8-liter four-cylinder, with output rated 124 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque. At the pump, expect an average of about 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway - decent, but not great. Its also pretty slow, taking 9.5 seconds to hit 60 mph. Both a CVT and a manual can be had on the transmission front, with the six-speed stick offered as standard.

If you feel the need for extra output, opt into the SR Turbo trim level, which ditches the 1.8-liter in favor of a boosted 1.6-liter four-cylinder producing 188 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. The newfound motivation helps to slash the 0-to-60 mph time to just 7 seconds flat.

Price: $16,990

2018 Nissan Sentra S 1.8 Liter I4 M/T $16,990 2018 Nissan Sentra S 1.8 Liter I4 Xtronic $18,275 2018 Nissan Sentra SV 1.8 Liter I4 Xtronic $19,085 2018 Nissan Sentra SR 1.8 Liter I4 Xtronic $20,500 2018 Nissan Sentra SL 1.8 Liter I4 Xtronic $23,440 2018 Nissan Sentra SR TURBO 1.6 Liter I4 M/T $22,200 2018 Nissan Sentra SR TURBO 1.6 Liter I4 Xtronic $22,490 2018 Nissan Sentra NISMO 1.6 Liter I4 M/T $25,790 2018 Nissan Sentra NISMO 1.6 Liter I4 Xtronic $25,790

Read our full review of the 2018 Nissan Sentra.

The Focus is one of the Blue Ovals most established and well-respected nameplates, and its lined up for a fourth generation for the 2019 model year.

The Focus is one of the Blue Ovals most established and well-respected nameplates, with a presence in the compact segment that stretches back to the late 90s. Now, the Focus is lined up for a fourth generation as it heads into the 2019 model year, bringing with it an updated interior, more technology, and a new platform as well.

Outside, the Focus gets a restyled fascia with a premium-looking LED lighting signature. However, the changes are more than skin-deep, as the fresh underpinnings shave nearly 200 pounds from the curb weight.

The new platform also blesses the Focus with a longer wheelbase, something you definitely notice in the cabin thanks to an extra 2.8 inches of legroom, an extra 2.5 inches of shoulder room, and an extra 2.0 inches of knee room. No word on cargo space, but considering the previous model offered 23.3 cubic feet of cargo behind the rear bench and 43.9 cubic feet with the seats folded flat, you can bet the 2019 model year will get a nice little boost here as well.

Were still waiting on specs for the updated U.S. models powertrain, but for now, the Focus gets a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 160 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. Theres also an optional turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder with 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque, which is the more efficient choice of the two, returning upwards of 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway as compared to the four-cylinders 26 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

Finally, transmission options include a six-speed automatic, while a five-speed manual is offered on the sedan models.

Price: $17,950

2018 Ford Focus S Sedan $17,950 2018 Ford Focus SE Sedan $19,245 2018 Ford Focus SE Hatch $20,540 2018 Ford Focus SEL Sedan $21,470 2018 Ford Focus SEL Hatch $21,670 2018 Ford Focus Titanium Sedan $24,270 2018 Ford Focus Titanium Hatch $24,470

Read our full review of the 2019 Ford Focus.

The Impreza stands out thanks to its standard AWD, which makes it particularly well-suited for those buyers living above the snow line.

While every other entry on this list comes with FWD, the Impreza stands out thanks to its standard Symmetrical AWD (a Subaru specialty), which makes it particularly well-suited for those buyers living above the snow line. The latest fifth-generation vehicle was introduced in 2016, and comes in both sedan and lift-back hatch iterations.

The latest model year comes with a newly reshaped exterior, with LED lighting signatures and sportier lines. The wheelbase is also an inch longer than the previous generation.

Inside, the cabin gets a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen in the dash, with the option to upgrade to an 8.0-inch unit. Above the screen is a secondary information display, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto add extra infotainment goodness.

On the power front, the Impreza comes standard with Subarus iconic boxer engine layout, rocking a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder tuned to produce 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual comes as standard equipment on the base model and Sport trim, while a CVT is optional, added as a standard spec higher in the line. Fuel returns come to 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the CVT ups those figures to 28 mpg and 38 mpg respectively.

Go for the hatchback, and youll get 20.8 cubic feet behind the rear bench, with 55.3 cubic feet offered with the rear seats folded flat.

Price: $18,595

2018 Subaru Impreza 2.0i 5MT $18,495 2018 Subaru Impreza 2.0i CVT $19,495 2018 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Premium CVT $21,295 2018 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport 5MT $22,095 2018 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport CVT $22,895 2018 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Limited CVT $24,195

Read our full review of the 2018 Subaru Impreza.

We like the Veloster for its funky, sporty attitude, and its surprising amount of equipment, all of which can be had for a very reasonable price tag.

Our next entry is the sporty Veloster, once again hailing from the South Korean brand Hyundai. All told, we like this thing for its funky, sporty attitude, and its surprising amount of equipment, all of which can be had for a very reasonable price tag.

Outside, the Veloster looks good thanks to LED lighting signatures and flared fenders on top of a long-roof hatch body style. Options include a two-tone paint scheme and plus-sized 18-inch wheels. Indeed, the Veloster is definitely unique, with a funky 2+1 door layout that places one door on the drivers side and two doors on the passengers side.

Despite the weird and cool exterior door design, the Veloster still seats up to four passengers thanks to its decently sized rear bench. Up front, theres a sporty interior layout and horizontal dash. A 7.0-inch digital screen comes as standard, while optional equipment tosses in a 8.0-inch touchscreen and a high-tech heads-up display as well. The Veloster also includes something called Active Sound Design, which enhances the cars natural intake and exhaust note for even more excitement behind the wheel.

The base model Veloster comes equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder spinning out 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. Transmission options here include a six-speed automatic and a six-speed manual. Higher in the range, Hyundai offers a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder making 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, which is upped to 202 pound-feet with the overboost function activated. Sweet!

Price: $18,500

2019 Hyundai Veloster 2.0 M/T $18,500 2019 Hyundai Veloster 2.0 A/T $19,500 2019 Hyundai Veloster 2.0 A/T PREMIUM $22,750 2019 Hyundai Veloster TURBO R-SPEC M/T $22,900 2019 Hyundai Veloster TURBO DCT $25,400 2019 Hyundai Veloster TURBO ULTIMATE M/T $26,650 2019 Hyundai Veloster TURBO ULTIMATE DCT $28,150

Read our full review of the 2019 Hyundai Veloster.

If youve got your heart set on a premium German four-door, but dont wanna break the bank to get it, then the Jetta is a surefire winner.

If youve got your heart set on a premium German four-door, but dont wanna break the bank to get it, then the refreshed 2019 Volkswagen Jetta is a surefire winner. This sedan is clearly aimed at providing buyers with a more premium feel than before, hitting the scene with a clean look, both inside and out.

As for the exterior design, Volkswagen looked to the larger Arteon and more expensive Audi A4 for the inspiration. LED lighting comes as standard, while the R-Line package adds more sportiness.

Theres also a new MQB platform under the sheet metal, and the dimensions are both longer and wider than the preceding model year.

Stepping into the cabin, the Jetta definitely reminds us of an Audi thanks to its premium asymmetrical dash layout. The central stack and infotainment screen are angled towards the driver, while the layout is cleverly done to minimize clutter and maximize ease of use. Options are plentiful, and include heated and ventilated seats, leather upholstery, 10-color ambient lighting, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system, not to mention a Volkswagen Digital Cockpit gauge setup.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto help in the infotainment department as well, while safety gear like Autonomous Emergency Braking, High Beam Control, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Forward Collision Warning help to ease the mind.

As for motivation, the Jetta comes equipped with a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder, which is boosted to produce as much as 147 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Standard spec throws in a six-speed manual transmission, while an eight-speed automatic is offered as optional equipment. Expect the latter of these two transmissions to return as much as 40 mpg on the highway.

Price: $18,545

2019 Volkswagen Jetta S six-speed manual $18,545 2019 Volkswagen Jetta S eight-speed automatic $19,345 2019 Volkswagen Jetta SE $22,155 2019 Volkswagen Jetta R-Line $22,995 2019 Volkswagen Jetta Jetta SEL $24,415 2019 Volkswagen Jetta SEL Premium $26,945

Read our full review of the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta.

While pricey, the latest Toyota Corolla Hatchback definitely left us feeling impressed.

Granted, were just barely skimming the pricing cutoff here, but we think the latest Toyota Corolla Hatchback is worth it. With a whopping 11 generations and a nameplate the stretches back to the mid 60s, its hard to believe this thing feels so fresh - but believe it you should, as this thing definitely has us impressed.

Outside, the Corolla hatch actually makes Toyotas infamously large grille design work, with an attractive profile, narrow headlights, and sizable roller designs up to 18 inches in diameter balancing the nose-heavy aesthetic without issue. LED lighting can be found in the front and the rear, while the dimensions are lower, shorter, and wider than the preceding iM hatch.

Inside, all is well thanks to a very clean dash design. Hard buttons and other clutter-inducing items are at a minimum, with standard spec tossing in Apple CarPlay, a six-speaker stereo, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen. Options include Qi wireless charging, a 7.0-inch drivers info display, and an eight-speaker audio system. Its also surprisingly quiet and roomy, as well.

Behind the large grille, Toyota mounts a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which creates as much as 168 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Transmission options include a six-speed manual with newbie-friendly automatic rev-matching, as well as a sequential Shiftmatic CVT with 10 simulated gears.

Throw in a sport-tuned suspension, and you call us fans.

Price: $19,990

2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback SE 6MT $19,990 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback SE CVTi-S $21,090 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE 6MT $22,990 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE CVTi-S $24,090 2019 Toyota Corolla L CVTi-S $18,700 2019 Toyota Corolla LE CVTi-S $19,135 2019 Toyota Corolla LE ECO CVTi-S $19,535 2019 Toyota Corolla XLE CVTi-S $22,135 2019 Toyota Corolla SE CVTi-S $20,645 2019 Toyota Corolla SE 6MT $21,865 2019 Toyota Corolla XSE CVTi-S $22,880

Read our full review of the 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback.

Offering an ideal blend of comfort, practicality, and efficiency, the Civic is very good at many different things.

Like several other entries on this list, the Civic is an absolute icon for its respective manufacturer, touting an incredible 10 generations to its name. The latest was introduced in 2016, and it comes with a wide variety of updates and new gear.

Offering an ideal blend of comfort, practicality, and efficiency, the Civic is very good at many different things. Engine options include a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 158 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.5-liter making 174 horsepower, while the slightly spicier Sport trim level is boosted to 180 horsepower. Both a six-speed manual and CVT can be had to route the power to the front axle. Fuel return figures round up to 40 mpg on the highway.

Optional equipment includes larger wheels, leather upholstery, and a whole lot more. The styling is certainly unique as well, with a ton of individual lines and aesthetic elements helping it stand out from the compact crowd.

High-tech safety features include stuff like Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Lane Keeping Assist.

Price: $18,940

Civic LX Sedan 2.0 L 6-Speed Manual $18,940 Civic LX Sedan 2.0 L CVT $19,740 Civic LX Sedan w/Honda Sensing 2.0 L CVT $20,740 Civic EX Sedan 2.0 L CVT $21,340 Civic EX Sedan w/Honda Sensing 2.0 L CVT $22,340 Civic EX-T Sedan 1.5 L Turbo Manual $21,700 Civic EX-T Sedan 1.5 L Turbo CVT $22,500 Civic EX-T Sedan 1.5 L Turbo w/Honda Sensing CVT $23,500 Civic EX-L Sedan 1.5 L Turbo CVT $24,000 Civic EX-L Sedan 1.5 L Turbo w/Honda Sensing CVT $25,000 Civic EX-L Sedan 1.5 L Turbo Navi CVT $26,000 Civic Touring Sedan 1.5 L Turbo CVT $26,800

Read our full review of the 2018 Honda Civic.

Conclusion

Out of all the cars listed above, there are some that seem to rise above the rest.

Lets start with the Hyundai Elantra, which manages to stuff in a ton of value for the money, offering loads of equipment and options for not much outlay.

Were also big fans of the Ford Focus, which manages to pull off the commuter role while still offering up a good amount of fun when the road gets twisty. Hatchback practicality is a big plus as well.

Then theres the Impreza, the only model in the list that offers standard AWD. In addition to solid equipment and a decent engine lineup, the extra driven wheels should make this one a no-brainer if you see white stuff every winter.

If refinement and high quality are what youre after, then the Jetta is certainly a worthy choice, pulling from the Volkswagen Groups massive parts bin to create something thatll have everyone else thinking you paid a whole lot more than you actually did.

Finally, the Civic is the best all-rounder of the group, touting a perfect balance in all the areas that matter.
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Canada Post opens post offices where you can try on clothes and pick up packages.

In the USA, the Postal Service is a money pit; north of the border, Canada Post actually turns a profit. It was spun off from the government as a Crown Corporation (owned by the government but operated relatively independently) in 1981 and has been aggravating Canadians ever since with its efficiencies like cancelling Saturday delivery and limiting home delivery. It also makes a lot of money delivering online shopping.

In fact, it appears to be building its future around online shopping, judging by their new concept stores, and Canadians should wonder if this is the future we want. According to their press release,

Canada Post delivers two out of every three parcels Canadians order online, which means were quickly becoming the trusted face of thousands of online retailers, says Doug Ettinger, Canada Posts chief commercial officer. These new stores signify the importance we place on that relationship and the need to evolve to serve Canadians changing postal needs.

Canada Post/Promo image

Of course, it is a free-standing suburban drive-through because that is now how the majority of Canadians live-in the suburbs, in their SUVs. There are some futuristic features, such as an on-site fitting room with full-length mirror where customers can try on online clothing purchases right away, and arrange to return whatever doesnt fit.

But mostly it is about picking up stuff. Since the last mile of delivery to individual homes is the most expensive, in the future people will may go to the post office instead.

For the ultimate in convenience, drive-thru parcel centres give customers the option of never having to get out of their car. Simply scan the barcode on your pickup notice at the welcome kiosk, then pull up to the pick-up window to collect your parcel. Theres even overhead protection from bad weather. If your item is heavy or bulky, our staff will place it in your vehicle.

It took a whole suburb full of designers to come up with this thing, from Alex Viau Creatif to OVE Brand to Reflect Architecture to Kearns Mancini. Apparently none of them could keep it from looking like a dogs breakfast of arches and boxes and roofs, but the real problem is conceptual.

Anne Goodchild/ University of Washington/via

Theoretically, home delivery should actually have a smaller carbon footprint than driving to the store or post office. Anne Goodchild of the University of Washington told BuzzFeed that broadly speaking, delivery services have the potential to dramatically reduce miles traveled. The article is about the impact of Amazon Prime, which sends a lot of deliveries direct from depot to home.

In a 2013 study, Goodchild found that grocery delivery trucks emitted between 20% and 75% less carbon dioxide per customer on average than passenger vehicles driving to the stores around Seattle, but only if grocery stores could choose drop-off times and optimize delivery routes. When customers choose, the carbon savings are significantly smaller. The benefit to a delivery being slower is that a company can consolidate more packages into fewer vehicles, Goodchild explained.



Canada Post/Promo image

The benefits are even greater if Canada Post delivers the goods in their shiny new Navistar all-electric trucks. You can deliver a lot of stuff within their hundred mile range if it is planned out well.

Instead, are we going to have a future where everyone is driving their pickup to the big box centre to pick up their Amazon loot, increasing the carbon footprint of online shipping even more? I wonder.
A certain Commander in Chief says that wildfires are being made 'so much worse by the bad environmental laws.' Here's what's really happening.

California is on fire. Again. Of the 20 largest fires since accurate records have been kept, 15 of them have taken place since the year 2000. Anyone who has lived in California knows about fire season, but the last few years have seen fires like never before.

Many experts are agreeing that the effects of climate change are to blame. California is hotter and drier than ever; the last five years have been among the hottest in 124 years of record keeping, and July broke all kinds of heat records for the state.

Is it any wonder that the fires are burning so ferociously?

But what is one supposed to make of all this is they don't believe in climate change? Say, they think climate change is a con job, a myth or a hoax? Blame the environmentalists, of course. Which is what President Trump did via Twitter on July 5. He wrote:

California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!



Has the man been watching Chinatown lately?

Thankfully, Michael Hiltzik sorts out this curious reasoning for us in a story for the Los Angeles Times.

Rather than taking his cues from old films about illegal water diversion, Trump may have been listening to Republican officeholders in the agricultural areas of the Central Valley, Hiltzik explains. "Theyre the people who grouse about water being 'wasted' by being diverted to the ocean, rather than into their fields."

Last month, the California State Water Resources Control Board created a plan to increase water flows into the San Joaquin River, which yes, eventually empties into the Pacific. The reason they are doing this is because so much water has been pumped into the valley for agricultural irrigation that the river ecosystem is in a state of ruin and the salmon fishery has basically collapsed. Water in Northern California naturally flows to the Pacific, its the irrigation and urban users who have diverted it, Hiltzik points out.

And even so, LACK OF WATER HAS NOT BEEN A PROBLEM IN FIGHTING THE FIRES. Excuse me for shouting, but seriously.

Fire agencies have distinctly not been begging for water. Dousing flames with water is not the only way wildfires are fought; fighting wildfires is about topography, constructing physical fire breaks, and fire retardant dropped from aircraft. In addition, the crazy fires are all near major reservoirs; the Carr fire has Lake Shasta and Whiskeytown Lake, the Mendocino Complex fire has Clear Lake. All of which are currently nice and full.

There have been no issues getting water from them, Scott McLean, a spokesman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) told Hiltzik.

Or, as Peter Gleick  president emeritus of the Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security in Oakland  said:

The idea that there isnt enough water is the craziest thing in the world, Theres absolutely no shortage.



As for the second part of the tweet, no one can really be sure what "tree clear" is supposed to mean. Hiltzik offers some suggestions. It could mean more logging, which actually would be in line with the president's proclivity for exploiting natural resources. It could mean the construction of fire breaks, which is an approach that is being actively used. Or it could mean clearing of the underbrush that can fuel wildfires, which is a complicated issue of which much of the policy would fall within the jurisdiction of the federal government since many of these areas are in national forest ... yet there is no sign of addressing this in any federal government policy statement.

In the end, all we're left with is someone weaponizing a tremendous, heartbreaking disaster in order to bully a state known for its progressive environmental leadership. Whether through ignorance of the facts or one of the other mysterious motivations that make the Twitter fingers twitch, it is hard to know. But blaming made-up factors instead of facing the reality feels like a very strange and dangerous tack to take.

Nero fiddled while Rome burned, Trump "twittered" while California burned. Some things never change.

The Fire of Rome by Hubert Robert (1785)/Public Domain

For more, read Hiltzik's whole piece here: In a strikingly ignorant tweet, Trump gets almost everything about California wildfires wrong
Kate Wagner of McMansion Hell makes a case for rooms; We concentrate on one of them.

Kate Wagner is best known for her @mcmansionhell sideline, at its best this week with her dissection of Betsy DeVoss summer house. Now, writing at CityLab, she makes The Case for Rooms, saying its time to end the tyranny of open-concept interior design. She addresses the kitchen in particular, a subject dear to this TreeHuggers heart, and unlike just about everyone else in the world (including most TreeHugger readers) agrees with me that kitchens should be closed, not open.

One of the reasons I have disliked open kitchens is that they dont really work the way people live and eat today. There are a few people around for whom cooking is a performance, but for most, it is a matter of different members of the family using small appliances, which are proliferating, and need a place to hide.

Thats why developers are now providing what developer Taylor Morrison called the messy kitchen in addition to the big fancy open kitchen; I described it on MNN:

credit: NEXTadventure

 NEXTadventure

This is insane. There is a six-burner range and a double oven in the kitchen and another big range and exhaust hood in the outdoor kitchen  but they know full well that everyone is hiding in the messy kitchen, nuking their dinner, pumping their Kuerig and toasting their Eggos.



Wagner thinks that the messy kitchen "offers hope for a transitional period where open spaces may become closed again." I believe she is right, that the reality of how we live is actually sinking in. She writes that technological changes made the open kitchen possible:

When inventions such as central air conditioning and improved fire suppression became commonplace, the kitchen, no longer a place of shame and no longer reliant upon the ventilation provided by the kitchen door, began to shift to different parts of the home. The attached garage often replaced the backyard as the common point of entry into the kitchen.



Wolf/ There is no way that range hood is going to anything. /Promo image

Wagner also includes many of the reasons I have promoted closed kitchens; it is actually more efficient for cooking because the distances are shorter. Smells are contained. (Kitchen ventilation is, as I have noted, a huge problem, particularly in modern, tightly sealed energy efficient homes.) Being an acoustics expert, of course she notes:

Not separating cooking, living, and dining is also an acoustical nightmare, especially in todays style of interior design, which avoids carpet, curtains, and other soft goods that absorb sound. This is especially true of homes that do not have separate formal living and dining spaces but one single continuous space. Nothing is more maddening than trying to read or watch television in the tall-ceilinged living room with someone banging pots and pans or using the food processor 10 feet away in the open kitchen.



Scan from Light, Air and Openness/Public Domain

However, I think Wagner is missing some of the key reasons that the open kitchen developed, and why I believe it should die. As Paul Overy wrote in his book Light Air and Openness, kitchens used to be multifunction spaces in working class homes. When the hygiene movement took root after the First World War, it was thought that kitchens should be more like hospital rooms than living spaces. Margarete Schutte-Lihotzky designed the Frankfurt Kitchen accordingly; Overy writes:

Rather than the social centre of the house as it had been in the past, this was designed as a functional space where certain actions vital to the health and wellbeing of the household were performed as quickly and efficiently as possible.



credit: Margarete Schutte-Lihotzky's Frankfurt Kitchen 1926

Margarete Schutte-Lihotzky's Frankfurt Kitchen 1926/CC BY 2.0

It was consciously designed to be too small to eat in, therefore eliminating the unpleasant effects produced by smell, vapours and above all the psychological effects of seeing leftovers, plates, bowls, washing-up clothes and other items lying around.

But it was also designed to free women from the drudgery of the kitchen.

Frederick was a serious women's rights activist and saw efficient design as a way to help women get out of the kitchen, but Margarete Schutte-Lihotzky was much more radical in her design of the Frankfurt Kitchen ten years later. She designed the small, efficient kitchen with a social agenda; according to Paul Overy, the kitchen was to be used quickly and efficiently to prepare meals and wash up, after which the housewife would be free to return to ... her own social, occupational or leisure pursuits."



Xray-delta/CC BY 2.0

The American kitchen of the fifties was the direct antithesis; after being part of the work force during the Second World War, women had to return to domestic duties so that the men could have their jobs back. I wrote:

In the fifties, any thoughts like those of Christine Fredericks or Margarete Schutte-Lihotzky, where women would be freed from kitchen responsibilities were pretty much extinguished by the baby boom, as the woman's job once again became cooking for dad and feeding the kids.

James Vaughan on Flickr/CC BY 2.0

In the fifties and sixties, the kitchen was all about putting women in their place- room to make the food while looking after children. Today, most of the time, the kitchen isnt even functioning as a kitchen- according to research, less than 60 percent of American meals are actually made at home, only 24 percent of meals are made from scratch, and 42 percent of meals are eaten alone. But the average fridge is opened 40 times per day; the kitchen is just a grazing pasture now. As I have written:

What has happened in the last fifty years is that we have outsourced our cooking; first to frozen and prepared foods, then to fresh prepared foods that you buy in the supermarket, and now trending to online ordering. The kitchen has evolved from a place where you cook to a place where most people just do the warming.

credit: Warendorf By Starck

 Warendorf By Starck

I have also written that the kitchen becomes an exhibit demonstrating how much money the working man and woman have, a place to put on a show on weekends, often by the man who likes the showy stuff. I concluded in one post:

Kitchen design, like every other kind of design, is not just about how things look; it is political. It is social. In kitchen design, it is all about the role of women in society. You can't look at kitchen design without looking at sexual politics.



You do not want to read the comments that this generated, where I get called a lot of nasty things. But I stand by my my basic thesis: The open kitchen has always been a bad idea, from a thermal, practical, health and even social point of view, and now as Kate Wagner points out, because of acoustics too. As she concludes: Sometimes, true freedom means putting up a few barriers.
Robinson said that Morton was so emotional that day. I think it was the first time I had seen her cry. The very next day, she called me and said that was the best event she had been to in her 99 years of life.
sanjiv@tribunemail.com

Vijay C Roy

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 7

To shield the domestic industry from the Chinese onslaught, the government has doubled import duties on over 300 textile products that will enhance competitiveness of textile clusters in Tamil Nadu and Punjab.

The move will check flooding of Indian market with direct imports from China, but the Chinese will try to bypass the tariff barrier through Bangladesh, Cambodia and Vietnam, industry experts said. Imports from these countries are not subject to any duty under the free trade agreement (FTA).

Textile industry is yet to assess benefits of the latest duty hike. The move will definitely boost the textile industry, particularly in the northern region. Though we are awaiting fine prints, it seems the government has addressed major concerns of the industry, DL Sharma, MD, Vardhman Yarns & Threads, told The Tribune.

The Rs 50,000-crore textile industry of North India has specialised manufacturing clusters in several states  Ludhiana in Punjab, Panipat in Haryana and Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh belt of Himachal. With an installed capacity of 7.5 million spindles, the northern region contributes 15% to the countrys total spinning capacity.

There are over 12,000 textile units in Punjab alone across the value chain  ginning, spinning, processing, knitting and garmenting. Textile accounts for 19% of Punjabs total industrial output. It comprises around 38% of the states total exports. Punjab produces 14% of the countrys total cotton yarn output. It is one of the leading states in exporting yarns, hosiery items and ready-made garments.

More than 200 garment exporters of the northern region have been facing turbulent times due to dwindling exports as Chinese manufacturers were often selling products dirt cheap, exporters said. Sharma said, the dumping from China in recent past was a cause of concern for the industry.

We are waiting for the final item-wise government order. We hope it will boost the sector and encourage Make in India initiative, said Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) chairman HKL Magu.

The industry is worried that higher duty would encourage China to smuggle goods through FTA countries. Often Chinese ship their fibre to Bangladesh and Vietnam where value-addition takes place and then the goods are shipped to India without any duty.

The Northern India Textile Mills Association is concerned over the issue of imports from Bangladesh due to FTA where basic customs duty is fully exempt and which serves as a duty-free entry point for Chinese fabric, as no rules of origin are in place for duty-free imports from Bangladesh.

The apparel imports from Bangladesh have gone up by 44% from $140 million in 2016-17 to $201 million in 2017-18.

Textile industry of North

Size: Rs 50,000 crore

Clusters: Ludhiana, Panipat, Baddi, Barotiwala, Nalagarh

Spinning capacity: 7.5 million spindles

Punjab scenario
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 6

The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation has started planning to make the city number one in cleanliness in the country. A meeting on Chandigarh banega swachhta mein number 1 and the star-rating system for a garbage-free city was held. The meeting was chaired by Davesh Moudgil, Mayor, and attended by MC Commissioner KK Yadav and other senior officers of the civic body.

During the meeting, the Mayor said a coordinated approach with decentralised solutions needed to be put in place for tackling the generation of municipal solid waste in the city. He said without ensuring the participation of citizens, specifically to change their mindset towards a garbage-free city, it was difficult to achieve the goal.

The Mayor asked the officers to develop a pilot project to collect garbage through MC vehicles where door-to-door collectors were not required. He said washrooms and water connections should be provided to all sehaj safai kendras. Regarding the segregation of hazardous waste, he said provision for e-waste bins should be planned throughout the city.

The Mayor said night sweeping should be planned on V5 roads. He said options should be explored to hand over sweeping of markets to market welfare associations.

The Mayor said workshops would be organised towards a garbage-free Chandigarh. The first such workshop for councillors would be held on August 13 and 14.

The Mayor also discussed the plan of study tours of councillors and officers and asked the officers to plan these tours from August 19 to 22. He said all teams would prepare study reports and place these in the forthcoming House meeting for detailed discussions. The Commissioner briefed the Mayor and the officers about the parameters of the star-rating system for a garbage-free city.
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Panchkula, August 7

Passengers in Panchkula faced inconvenience as employees of the Haryana Roadways went on a day-long strike on Tuesday in protest against the decision of the state government to introduce 700 private buses in the state.

Vinod Sharma, who regularly travels between Pinjore and Panchkua, said he had to use a taxi to reach his office in Panchkula. The authorities should look into the inconvenience faced by commuters due to such strikes, he said. Earlier in the day, the employees, under the banner of the Haryana Roadways Karamchari Union, held a protest at the Sector 5 bus stand in Panchkula.

In the Panchkula depot, there are 93 buses, while in the Kalka sub-depot, there are 50 buses, which did not ply on Tuesday due to the strike.

The protest came in the wake of the nationwide strike called by the All-India Motor Transport Organisation over the Motor Vehicles Amendment Bill. The protesters are demanding withdrawal of the Bill, which seeks to allow private players to enter the public transport sector.
editorial@tribune.com

Saurabh Malik

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 6

Dubbing chain snatching a very grievous offence, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has asserted that leniency cannot be shown while sentencing the convicts. The judgment came in a case where a chain snatcher was sentenced to one year and four months of imprisonment by a Ropar court.

Taking up the petition filed by Gurjant Singh against the state of Punjab, Justice Surinder Gupta asserted that those snatching chains and purses of women going on roads or streets not only threatened the victims liberty and security, but also created an atmosphere of terror in society.

Such type of criminals are required to be dealt with sternly. The courts below have already taken a lenient view regarding the quantum of sentence by awarding rigorous imprisonment for one year four months; as such, I find no reason to take a further lenient view in this matter, Justice Gupta added.

Gurjant Singh was initially convicted and sentenced for theft after preparation for causing death, hurt or restraint under Section 382 and Section 34 of the Indian Penal Code by a Ropar judicial magistrate. The judgment was affirmed by an Additional Sessions Judge following which he moved the High Court.

The prosecution had told the court that complainant Ivreet Kaur was going towards her house around 5 pm in September 2011 when the pillion rider on a Bullet snatched a gold chain she as wearing. The incident occurred near Khalsa Girls College, Morinda.

The complainant, however, swiftly pulled down the pillion rider, while the other rider ran away from the spot. On her hue and cry, shopkeepers from the nearby area gathered at the spot and nabbed the person pulled down by the complainant.

On enquiry, he disclosed his name as Gurjant Singh and the name of the co-accused as Mandeep Singh. He also disclosed the number of the motorcycle, while adding that the rear number plate did not carry the registration number, but a sticker of AK47. The police also reached the spot and took the petitioner into custody.

Co-accused Mandeep Singh expired during the trial. As such, proceedings against him were dropped. Before the trial court, the complainant supported the prosecution case and identified the petitioner in the court.

Refusing to interfere with the orders of the courts below, Justice Gupta added that the complainant caught hold of the petitioner because of her alertness. He was arrested on the spot. As such, there was no dispute regarding his identity. The courts below found the statement of the complainant worthy of reliance. Even otherwise, the complainant had no reason to falsely implicate the petitioner.
KC Singh

KC Singh

The victory of Imran Khan, supremo of Tehreek-e-Insaf party (PTI), in the July 25 elections was no surprise. After all, the army-judiciary compact had unlevelled the playing field sufficiently to make rigging redundant. A Zia-ul-Haq era clause in Pakistans constitution that leaders lacking sadiq and amin  righteousness and honesty  stand disqualified as members of Parliament, was used by the Pakistans Supreme Court to debar Nawaz Sharif. Subsequently, the National Accountability Bureau sentenced him and his daughter Maryam to jail and steep fines were imposed on them for owning properties in London.

Probably what the army had not scripted was the return of the father-daughter duo to face arrest. This galvanised the PML(N) cadres, avoiding a complete rout in Punjab and denying Imran Khans party outright majority at the national and Punjab levels. With 115 seats, out of 273 parliamentary seats up for grabs, the PTI is ahead of the rivals, PML(N) and Bhutto-Zardari led PPP. In Punjab, the PML(N) is ahead, though the PTI may pip it to garner a majority.

Imran Khan, speaking immediately after his win, spelt out his vision for a New Pakistan. Domestically, he sought equitable development with focus on health and education. Abroad, he ticked all the boxes, including a desire to improve relations with India. While his reiteration of Kashmir as a core issue was understandable, his denouncing Nawaz Sharif for pillorying the army over the 26/11 attack in Mumbai left a bad taste. His offer to take two steps forward for each one India took sounded unrealistic when he cannot, as yet, part ways with his army sponsors.

What then is likely to be the trajectory of India-Pak relations? The news that Imran Khan had invited Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Navjot Sidhu and Aamir Khan for his swearing-in generated debate in India. Sidhu was quick off the blocks when, at a press conference, he accepted the invite. While his grateful adulation of former Pakistani captain was typical Sidhu hyperbole, there was merit in his reasoning that Punjab stood to gain if the ties normalised, allowing trade and people-to-people contact. Since Partition, Punjab has been delinked from its natural connectivity to Central Asia, Afghanistan and Iran, which traditionally made it a vital conduit for regional trade. As a landlocked state, distant from mineral resources in Indias East and ports, it has been forced to harness its agricultural potential, with diminishing returns of late.

Subsequent news that no such invites were imminent  contradicted again by Gavaskar apparently seeking the Centres guidance while Aamir Khan played safe by excusing himself  compel the re-examination of the issue. Pakistan policy of the NDA government has been in limbo since the surprise December 2015 visit by PM Modi to Lahore to engage Nawaz Sharif, albeit in a social context. If the expectation was that Sharif would be able to get the army to curb jihadis while the two leaders built a momentum in bilateral engagement, India miscalculated. Such hobnobbing was likely to irritate elements at the army headquarters and beget retaliation. Within weeks, the Pathankot air base was attacked in January 2016. But what probably embarrassed Modi personally was that while he cleared a visit by a Pakistani investigation team, which included an ISI component, to visit the airbase, Pakistan denied permission to an Indian team to visit the country. Subsequently, Burhan Wanis killing in July 2016, destabilising security in the Valley, and the attack on our Army camp at Uri in September led to the hardening of the Modi governments Pakistan policy. The preconditions for the resumption of formal talks were hardened from seeking punishment of 26/11 perpetrators, including the top JeM leadership, to extending it to those behind Pathankot and Uri attacks; and further to no dialogue till terrorism ends.

The conundrum surrounding the two decades of comprehensive dialogue, interrupted by terror episodes, has been that the issues seek to move simultaneously on a mix of proposed CBMs as well as disputes ranging from Sir Creek to Siachen and Kashmir. Globally, CBMs precede dispute resolution and facilitate an environment for settling issues. Pakistan, however, wants quick progress on the most complicated issue: Kashmir, while dragging feet on simpler issues like people-to-people links and trade. The deadlock may be useful for domestic politics but lands India in a corner. Zero tolerance to terror means even one jihadi can undermine the ties.

Invitation to four Indian icons was thus a great idea to break the deadlock while Imran Khans desire for peace could be gauged at little political cost to the government. He would either begin to modify the armys thinking or start distancing himself from it. If he does neither, the hard policy can be continued. Pakistan faces a financial crisis with only $9 billion in foreign reserves, equivalent to two months import cover. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned that the IMF bailout could not be used to repay China. Small handouts may come from the Saudis in lieu of an additional 1,000 troops. But salvation lies in normalising trade with India. Imran Khan also cannot deliver on clean governance without recapitalising the state sector and rejigging the taxation regime.

Meanwhile, the Modi government may avoid another risky outreach with elections approaching. New Delhis advice to Gavaskar thus may be what he followed against West Indian bouncers: duck and await a better ball to hit.
harinder@tribunemail.com

Ananya Panda

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 7

There are reasons to cheer for people living with HIV/ AIDS (PLHIVs) and those with special needs in the capital as the Delhi cabinet on Tuesday approved proposals to double the financial assistance to the former and scrapped the age bar for the latter making them eligible for lifelong aid if the conditions under which they are receiving the aid remains unchanged.

The decisions, which were taken in a meeting chaired by Chief Minister (CM) Arvind Kejriwal during the day here, as per Deputy CM Manish Sisodia would not require sanction from the LG.

The Social Welfare Department (SWD) minister Rajendra Pal Gautam tweeted, "Happy to announce that cabinet took an important and significant decision regarding the disability pension today. Now they will not be categorised under old age pension scheme, rather they will get enhanced amount Rs 2500 under the Disability Pension Scheme even after attain the age of 60."

The pension assistance for people/ children living with HIV/ AIDs on Anti Retroviral Treatment (ART) in Delhi has been enhanced from the present Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 for each beneficiary whereas in case of HIV/ AIDS infected orphan and destitute children infected with the disease in institutional care, the aid has been revised from Rs 4,100 from Rs 2,050. For those falling under the category of orphan children affected by HIV/AIDS (whose one or both parents died of the disease), the assistance has been increased from Rs1,750 to Rs 3,500.

Under the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), a total of 27,250 people living with the disease are on ART till end of March this year as per the record of the 11 ART centres located in the major government hospitals in Delhi.

The SWD had also proposed for doing away with the age restriction on financial assistance to individuals with special needs. With the cabinets nod all differently-abled people in the capital can avail the benefit even after they turn 60 years.

Under the previous system, eligible persons with disabilities having an annual family income not more than Rs 1 lakh get the grant from the citys SWD.

The beneficiaries will not be eligible for pension under more than one scheme among the three schemes for the old age, persons with disability and pension to women in distress.
rchopra@tribunemail.com

Washington, August 7

An Indian-origin man has pleaded guilty to taking USD 2.5 million in bribes and kickbacks from companies seeking contracts to work on energy saving projects in the US government buildings.

Bhaskar Patel, 67, of Windermere, Florida, received the bribes and kickbacks when he served as a senior project manager for Schneider Electric Building Americas, based in Andover, Massachusetts.

He was responsible for obtaining bids from subcontractors and recommending for selection the subcontractors that would be awarded a contract under an energy saving project.

The payments were associated with federal energy savings performance contracts issued to Schneider Electric by various federal agencies from June 6, 2011 to April 19, 2016.

He pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court in Rutland to two felony charges, each carrying maximum penalties of 10 years in prison. He remains free on his personal recognizance pending a December 7 sentencing hearing.

Judge Geoffrey Crawford said federal probation officials would conduct a pre-sentence investigation before he formally handed down a sentence for Patel.

As part of a plea agreement, federal prosecutors filed a notice of forfeiture totalling USD 2,536,119 from Patel, VT Digger, a Vermont news portal, reported.

The plea agreement states that prosecutors have agreed to reduce the forfeiture amount to USD 1.75 million if Patel pays USD 950,000 on or before his sentencing.

He also faces fines of up to USD 5,072,238.38, or twice his ill-gotten gains.

Among the items federal prosecutors are seeking to seize as part of the forfeiture are his property in Windermere; a 2012 Mercedes-Benz E Class E350 vehicle; a watch; six rings; 43 earrings; 10 bracelets; 18 bangles; six pendants, USD 35,700 in Indian rupees; and a timeshare property in Hilton Head, South Carolina, the portal reported.

Assistant US Attorney Abigail Averbach, a prosecutor in the case, said charges against other individuals involved in the case are possible, though she declined to say who those people might be.

Court records do indicate that in some cases Patel directed those paying him to write chequws to his adult son and daughter. His children are identified in court papers as JP and FP.

David Smith, a spokesman for Schneider Electric, said after the hearing that Patel was terminated as soon as the allegations of wrongdoing came to light.

Patels scheme came to light when law enforcement received information that he had altered and falsified a bid document submitted to Schneider Electric by a Vermont subcontractor bidding for work on an energy savings project at the White River Junction VA facility, according to court records. PTI
monicakchauhan@gmail.com

New York, August 7

"My turban really saved me", says a 50-year-old Sikh man who was ambushed, beaten up multiple times by two white men who yelled racial slurs at him in the US.

Surjit Singh Malhi said he was putting out political signs for US Representative Jeff Denham, a Republican running for re-election, near his home in California when he was attacked by the two men who yelled racial slurs that "You're not welcome here!, Go back to your country!".

"My turban really saved me," Malhi was quoted as saying by the New York Times yesterday. He said his turban acted "like a helmet, but stronger."

"The two men came up behind me and accosted me. They threw sand in my eyes so I could not see, he said, adding that they struck my head and back with what appeared to be a stick and a belt.

"The way they were hitting me, (I thought) maybe I would die. You don't belong here," he said they told him.

Malhi, came to the US from India in 1992 and is now a permanent resident. He wears a turban and that may be the reason he was targeted, but it may have also saved his life.

"The only reason (he was attacked), as far as we can tell, is because he was wearing a turban and he was Middle Eastern," Deputy Royjindar Singh said. "That was the only reason they attacked him."

Malhi said everything happened quickly. He said he did not get a good look at the attackers, but told investigators they were two men wearing black sweatshirts, KCRA channel TV reported.

He said they spray painted the side of his truck with a white nationalist symbol and wrote, "Go back to your country."Malhi said he has never experienced racism like that.

"I never feel that way," he said. "I've never been mistreated like that."

"I have a lot of friends," Malhi said. "I have no problem. I do not feel any racism against me ever. I have friends who are standing for me. They love me and I love them."

Sheriff Adam Christianson of Stanislaus County said his office was aggressively investigating the case and looking for suspects.

"It's a despicable hate crime," the sheriff said. "There is no room for this in Stanislaus County or anywhere else in the United States of America."

Meanwhile, Denham, the Republican lawmaker of California, released a statement yesterday condemning the attack, which occurred in his district.

Central California is home to a large Sikh community, and Malhi leads a group of Sikh volunteers for the congressman's campaign.

"Inciting violence because of race, religion or political beliefs should never be tolerated," Denham said. "This is the third incident in less than two weeks where a member of my team has been a target and it must come to an end."

Turbans represent a commitment to gender and racial equality, as well as religious tolerance, said Gurwin Singh Ahuja, co-founder of the National Sikh Campaign.

"Sikhs wear their turbans to signal their readiness to protect people from injustice," he said. "It's very ironic that these people chose to attack him for how he looks, when in fact, how he looks represents the highest ideals of our country." PTI
ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

New York, August 6

A 50-year-old Sikh man was beaten up multiple times by two white men who yelled racial slurs at him in California, prompting police to investigate the heinous hate crime. The incident happened last week near the intersection of Keyes and Foote roads as the man was putting up campaign signs alone along a rural stretch on the outskirts of Keyes, the police were quoted as saying by The Sacramento Bee.

Stanislaus County Sheriff Adam Christianson said the assault was being investigated as a hate crime. This is a random despicable criminal act against a member of the Sikh community, he said. The victim was struck multiple times as the assailants screamed youre not welcome here and go back to your country before spray painting his truck.

The victim required medical attention so an ambulance was called and he was treated on the spot for cuts and other wounds. According to a Facebook post, the man was hit with a rod in the head but he escaped any major injury due to his turban.

Also, the post shared an image of the pickup truck spray painted in large black letters with the words Go back to ur country alongside a Celtic cross.  PTI
gspannu7@gmail.com

New York, August 7

A US Navy veteran, who shot and killed Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla and injured two others at a suburban Kansas City bar in 2017, was on Tuesday sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.

Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed Kuchibhotla, and wounded two others  Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot  at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

Purinton was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement.

Earlier this year, he pleaded guilty in federal court to hate crime and firearm offenses arising out of the shooting.

At his federal guilty-plea hearing, Purinton admitted in open court that he targeted and shot Kuchibhotla and Madasani because of their race, colour, and national origin, and that he shot Grillot during an attempt to flee the scene of the crime.

Purinton has also pleaded guilty in state court to charges of murder and attempted murder, and has been sentenced to a term of life imprisonment in state prison.

The crimes at issue in this case are detestable, Sessions said.

The defendant acted with clear premeditation in murdering one man, and attempting to murder a second man, simply because of their race, religion, and national origin. As a result, a promising young life has been tragically cut short, and other lives have been filled with suffering.

Sessions said in the statement that while the irreparable harm that Purinton has done cannot be undone, some measure of justice for the victims families has been achieved.  PTI
vermaajay1968@gmail.com

The ghost of the ballot paper has arisen and the fight may go all the way to the Supreme Court. For now, 17 Opposition parties will approach their first court of appeal  the Election Commission of India  to revert to the ballot paper in 2019 because the current system was open to manipulation. Partisans on the ruling side may view it as reopening an old, worn-out debate but the Opposition does have a case when it asks the ECI to remove any impression of bias or lack of transparency and fairness. The ECI can argue that the system is infallible because the new EVMs come with retrievable paper trails for a manual count.

Doubts over inadequate vigilance over EVMs had been expressed recently after a string of nearly-improbable wins by the BJP. These should have settled down after its handy loss in Punjab, getting pipped at the post in Karnataka and tanking three successive byelections in UP. Apart from the Oppositions yet-to-be-verified claim that the source code of EVMs lay outside the ECIs jurisdiction, its reputation as the custodian of the electoral process and its integrity have been hurt more by non-technical aspects. And this is where the Opposition parties ought to focus their energies on.

The reason for the Oppositions edgy resentment giving way to open suspicion about EVMs may be because the ECI has been less than scrupulously impartial in the past. The previous Chief Election Commissioner disqualified 20 AAP MLAs two days before his retirement, an order that was later struck down as a violation of the principles of natural justice. The ECI also diluted its integrity as a neutral umpire by an inexplicable delay in announcing poll dates for the Gujarat Assembly that permitted PM Modi a few extra days of campaigning. Rather than seek ballot papers, the Opposition needs to push for further foolproof mechanisms in EVMs while maintaining the pressure on the ECI to ensure an impartial umpiring of the 2019 poll.
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Karnal, August 6

Citing the wastage of donation money in legal battles for the management of state gurdwaras, the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC) has demanded from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to withdraw a case from the Supreme Court.

Jagdish Singh Jhinda, president, HSGMC, on Monday said that a large amount of donation money was being wasted in the legal battle by both the Haryana and Punjab committees. The donation money should be used on maintenance of gurdwaras, religious teachings, educational institutions, health services and langar.

Accusing the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) for the case filed in the Supreme Court, Jhinda said that SAD should ask the SGPC to withdraw the case for the welfare of the community.

After presiding over a meeting of the youth wing of the HSGMC here, Jhinda stated that they had decided to hold a convention at Pipli on August 19 in support of their demand. They would pressurise the SAD and the SGPC to withdraw the case from the apex court.

We have also decided to oppose all rallies of former Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and former Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal in coming days in Haryana, said Jhinda. Jhinda said that the money collected from the Haryana gurdwaras should be used on maintenance of state gurdwaras instead of Punjab.
editorial@tribune.com

Bhanu P Lohumi

Tribune News Service

Shimla, August 6

Filling posts of teaching and non-teaching staff within one year and stress on quality research will be the priorities of new Vice-Chancellor of Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) Sikander Kumar, who assumed office on Monday.

With the hard work of former VCs and teaching and non-teaching staff, the university succeeded in getting A Grade from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). Now, in order to bring further improvement in the grading, the issue of staff shortage has to be addressed, he told The Tribune.

Focus will be on quality research and patenting as we have highly qualified teaching faculty which has bagged several awards in national and international arena. I will pursue the matter with the state and Union governments for bringing major research projects to the university, he stated.

When asked about de-recognition of the International Centre for Distance Education and Open Learning (ICDEOL) by the UGC, Sikander said he had met Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar two-week back and the matter would be resolved soon. Himachal should get some relaxation in norms.

The matter was also being pursued by the Director, ICDEOL, and the state Education Minister would also take up the issue.

However, the matter regarding recognition of the ICDEOL was not taken up in the right perspective during the past two years, he added.

In reply to a question regarding restoration of direct elections to Students Central Association (SCA), Prof Sikander said besides obtaining inputs from head s of the department, a meeting with all principals of colleges affiliated to the HPU would be convened soon to discuss the matter.

Prof Sikander, who had been the state president of the BJP SC Morcha, said being the Vice-Chancellor, all student and teaching and non-teaching staff associations were equal for him and there would no compromise on merit.

My endeavour will be to carry all along for betterment of the university, he said.

VC takes charge

A number of ABVP members, students, teachers and other employees escorted the VC to his office, where he took charge of his new assignment after performing a puja and seeking blessings from his mother. He would be VC for three years

NET qualifiers honoured

The VC honoured the visually impaired and other disabled students who have qualified the UGCNET examination. He assured the students that the university was committed to providing all necessary support for their educational empowerment.
amansharma@tribunemail.com

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 7

Activist Talib Hussain -- a witness in the Kathua gang rape case  on Tuesday moved the Supreme Court alleging custodial torture after he was arrested in a rape case lodged against him at Samba police station.

A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra agreed to hear his pleafiled through his cousinon Wednesday.

On behalf of the petitioner, advocate Sunil Fernandes told the Bench that there was threat to his life as he played an important role in exposing the accused in the Kathua gangrape case.

The petitioner alleged that Hussain had been falsely implicated in the case and subjected to torture.

The rape case was lodged against him in July by wife of his brother-in-law. He has also been booked in a dowry case logded by his estranged wife in June.

The Kathua rape case victim  an eight-year-old girl from a nomadic community had disappeared from near her home in a village in Kathua on January 10. Her body was found in the same locality a week later. The Crime Branch of Jammu and Kashmir Police had taken up the probe into the case on January 22 and filed a chargesheet against seven accused and a separate chargesheet against a juvenile accused in a court in Kathua district on April 9.

The minor girl was allegedly kidnapped, drugged and raped inside a place of worship before being killed, police had alleged.

The top court has already transferred the trial from Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, to Pathankot in Punjab and ordered a day-to-day in-camera trial in the case.

The Supreme Court had on July 9 ordered shifting of seven accused facing trial in the Kathua gang rape and murder case from sub-jail, Kathua in Jammu and Kashmir to Gurdaspur in Punjab.
monicakchauhan@gmail.com

Majid Jahangir

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, August 7

At least four Army men, including a Major, were killed in a fierce gunfight along the Line of Control in Gurez sector of north Kashmir's Bandipora district on Tuesday.

Sources say two militants have also been killed.

The four slain soldiers were identified as Major Kaustubh Prakash Kumar Rane of Thane in Maharashtra, Grenadier Vikramjeet of Ambala in Haryana, Rifleman Mandeep Singh Rawat of Kotdwar in Uttarakhand and Rifleman Hameer Singh of Dunda in Uttarakhand.

A massive counter-infiltration operation is under way in the district along the LoC.

Srinagar-based defence spokesman Col Rajesh Kalia said the gunfight between a group of infiltrating militants and the Army erupted at around 1 am in the sector, over 180 km from here. They said the operation is still in progress.

As they were challenged, six to eight militants opened fire triggering an intense gunfight. So far, four Army men, including a Major, have been killed. Two militants have also been gunned down, Col Rajesh Kalia said.

The bodies of the militants are yet to be retrieved. He said there is a possibility that a few of the militants may have gone back to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, adding that the counter-infiltration operation is still going on.

While defence sources claimed it was an infiltration bid that was foiled, Bandipora DC Shahid Choudhary said there was a ceasefire violation in the Gurez sector.

Police sources in north Kashmir said cross-border firing and shelling started on the LoC near Baktoor Gurez.
rchopra@tribunemail.com

Bhadarwah, August 7

A 16-year-old boy studying in Class X got washed away in flash floods while crossing a stream on his way to school in Jammu and Kashmirs Doda district on Tuesday, officials said.

Raja Owais, who was going to appear in the first-term examination, drowned in Chinyass nullah (stream) in Bhalessa area in the morning, said Bhadarwah Assistant Superintendent of Police Rajinder Singh.

A police party from Gandoh immediately rushed to the spot and started rescue operations. After hectic search, the body of the teenager was fished out from the stream and handed over to his family, Singh said.

Officials said the district authorities ordered closure of all schools for the day as a precautionary measure in view of the inclement weather.

Most parts the state, including Doda, were lashed by heavy rain since Monday night, triggering mudslides that led to road closures at a number of places in the hilly district, the officials said.

Traffic on the Batote-Kishtwar highway was restored partially after remaining suspended for over five hours due to landslides at several places, including Dansal, Assar and Koura Pani. The clearance operation is still going on, said Zohaib Hassan, the deputy superintendent of police, traffic. PTI
rchopra@tribunemail.com

New Delhi, August 7

The Supreme Court will on Wednesday hear a plea alleging that Talib Hussain, a key witness in the sensational Kathua gang rape and murder case, is being tortured by Jammu and Kashmir Police in a fake rape case.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices DY Chandrachud and Indira Banerjee considered the submission of a close relative of Hussain, seeking urgent hearing on the plea.

A habeas corpus writ petition has been filed by the cousin of the witness. It alleges that Hussain has been kept in illegal detention and being subjected to custodial torture.

Hussains family alleged that he is being tortured in police custody in a fake rape case.

Senior advocate Indira Jaising, counsel for the petitioner, later said Hussain had been subjected to torture in Sambha and they are seeking judicial intervention in the matter.

The apex court has transferred the trial in the Kathua gang rape and murder case to Pathankot after taking note of the plea of the father of the victim apprehending threat to the family.

Hussain is a key witness in the Kathua gang rape case, in which an eight-year-old girl from a minority nomadic community disappeared from near her home in a village close to Kathua in the Jammu region on January 10. Her body was found in the same area a week later.

The state polices Crime Branch, which probed the case, filed the main chargesheet against seven people and a separate chargesheet against a juvenile in a court in Kathua district. The chargesheet has revealed chilling details about how the girl was allegedly abducted, drugged and raped inside a place of worship before being killed. PTI
editorial@tribune.com

Suhail A Shah

Anantnag, August 7

Militants on Tuesday evening fired at a Special Police Officer (SPO) of the J&K Police in the Tral area of Pulwama district.

The injured SPO has been identified as Ashiq Hussain Lone, a resident of Pastuna village in Tral. The police said the incident took place around 7.45 pm. A senior police officer said the SPO (24) was shot in the leg. He was shot at outside his home in Pastuna village, the police officer said, adding that the injured SPO was shifted to Tral Sub-District Hospital. Doctors at the hospital said the SPO was stable. Following the shooting, security forces rushed to the area and cordoned it off to trace the militants.
editorial@tribune.com

Majid Jahangir

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, August 6

People in Kashmir heaved a sigh of temporary relief after the Supreme Court deferred the hearing on Article 35A even as the Valley continued to observe shutdown in support of the provision which provides special privileges to the state.

The normal life remained paralysed in the Valley for the second consecutive day on Monday due to the two-day shutdown call given by Kashmiri separatists conglomerate  Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL)  to voice support for Article 35A.

The authorities on Monday imposed strict restrictions in the volatile old city and Maisuma locality to ensure peace. In other parts of Srinagar, shops, business establishments, and educational institutions remained closed and roads wore a deserted look. The attendance of employees in various offices was also affected due to the shutdown.

A total shutdown was also observed in other parts of the Valley.

Due to the tension in the Valley, the cross-Line of Control Karwan-e-Aman bus that plies weekly between Srinagar and Muzaffarabad did not operate on Monday. The Banihal-Baramulla train also remained suspended for the second day.

There is a fear in Kashmir that any tinkering with Article 35A may trigger a massive agitation.

Members of various trade bodies held protest demonstrations in many parts of the Valley for the second consecutive day against the attempts to alter the special status of J&K.

The police foiled the protest march of the Kashmir Economic Alliance towards the United Nations Military Observer Group in India & Pakistan office at Sonwar in Srinagar and detained a few protesters. The protests were also held in Budgam, Ganderbal, Baramulla, and Bandipora district.

All these protests were peaceful, a police officer said. The authorities also put JRL leaders Syed Ali Geelani and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq under house arrest. Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front chairman Yasin Malik has been evading arrest since Saturday.

The ongoing Amarnath yatra from the Jammu base camp to the cave shrine was also suspended due to the shutdown. However, the pilgrims were allowed to proceed towards the cave from the two base camps.

Protests to continue: Separatists

Separatists on Monday said the protest in favour of Article 35A will continue even as the Supreme Court adjourned the hearing in a petition seeking its repeal to later this month.

In a statement, the Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL) comprising Syed Ali Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik said the protest against tinkering with the law will continue as leadership deliberates upon it.

As the hearing of the case regarding the hereditary state subject law has been simply deferred from today till the last week of August by the Supreme Court, when the Amarnath yatra ends, the protest programme against tinkering with the law will continue as leadership deliberates upon it, the JRL said.

Yatra suspended for second day
vinaymishra188@gmail.com

Manpriya Singh

When Manahar Kumar went about shooting two poverty stricken six-year-olds in the middle of the night in his hometown, Chandigarh, little did he know it would fetch him a Student Emmy Award in the US!

At the time, it was an endeavour meant to just highlight the plight of children whom he found collecting empty alcohol bottles for a meagre living and to buy books from it. But after a year of editing, when I showed the five-minute short film to an American friend, she was touched enough to burst into tears, shares the 23-year-old currently pursuing Masters of Fine Arts in Film and TV from Savannah College of Art & Design in Atlanta, USA.

Of the five documentaries nominated for the category, his documentary titled Kya Dekh Raha Hai? (What Are You Looking At) bagged the prize, even though he doesnt know about the total number of submissions that came from all the colleges of US.

A fruitful journey

A product of St. Kabir Public School and St Johns High School, his first ever exposure to the power of stage and performing arts happened as a Class IX student in St Johns. It was in 2009 for the production The Lion King. Right before joining college, English Theatre Group in Chandigarh happened. And while I was pursuing Mass Communication from Manipal University in Bengaluru, I became the director of theatre group Untied Laces. UTLthe name of his Youtube channel as well, wherein already as many as four to five short films and documentaries have been uploaded.

Having explored the craft in different capacities, as a set-designer, assistant director, writer, actor and lately director, he feels, It takes an entire village to create an art work that has an impact on people.

Up next

Apart from the romantic comedy titled Laparwah Dil, which is past the production stage, he is also working on a feature film, the idea for which, once the script is through, he will start pitching for production houses. I was also offered an animation web series for Netflix, but I had to be in the US for my course so couldnt accept.

Does he see himself making roads and finding his way to doing commercial mainstream Bollywood movie in another 10 years? Why not? I wouldnt do it in a cliched way though. And why 10 years, it should be much sooner? he signs off.

manpriya@tribunemail.com
Lalit Mohan

Lalit Mohan

For the moment Kanhaiya Kumar is off the hook. JNU will have to start disciplinary proceedings against him afresh, if at all. And over two years after the ruckus there, the Delhi Police has not found enough actionable evidence to frame charges against him and his cohorts on the grounds of sedition. As expected, no action has been taken against those who morphed his speech either.

This pause in the proceedings gives us another chance to ask this question: How should a mature democracy  assuming we are one  deal with transgressions of this nature by some of its junior citizens? We can take a cue from the debate organised by the Oxford University Union on February 9, 1933, the motion for which was This House will in no circumstances fight for its King and Country. Eminent speakers weighed in on both sides of the argument. The motion was actually carried, 275 votes to 153  64 per cent in favour.

As expected, conservative Brits were shocked and outraged. The Daily Express wrote: There is no question but that the woozy-minded Communists, the practical jokers, and the sexual indeterminates of Oxford have scored a great victory.... Even the plea of immaturity, or the irresistible passion of the undergraduate for posing, cannot excuse such a contemptible and indecent action as the passing of that resolution. Among those who agreed with this view was Winston Churchill.

On the liberal side, the Manchester Guardian responded differently: The obvious meaning of this resolution (is) youths deep disgust with the way in which past wars for King and Country have been made, and in which, they suspect, future wars may be made; disgust at the national hypocrisy which can fling over the timidities and follies of politicians, over base greeds and communal jealousies and jobbery, the cloak of an emotional symbol they did not deserve.

As the debate over the debate raged, some opponents proposed that the union expunge the King and Country motion from its records. This proposition too was put to vote, but it lost 750 to 138. An even higher ratio of people (84 per cent) voted for the right to debate and voice contrary opinions. The freedom to express a divergent view was defended even more vigorously.

Hubert Digby, proposer of the original motion, said, I am certain if war broke out tomorrow the students of the university would flock to the recruiting office as their fathers and uncles did. When in 1939 World War II started, 2,632, out of a potential 3,000 students in Oxford, lined up to join the military. Many of them would have laid down their lives subsequently in the war.

People, especially youth, often act or speak contrary to what the State expects of them. US university students of the 1960s and 70s, who opposed the Vietnam War, were branded as anti-national, but are today given credit for having more sense than the government of the day.

May be, 50 years hence, Kanhaiya and his fellow students will be judged differently.
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Mumbai, August 7

The functioning of the Maharashtra Government right up to the taluka levels was crippled after nearly 17 lakh employees went on a three-day strike to press for the implementation of the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission and other demands.

The strike is total and all the employees have stayed away from work, boards put out by the Maharashtra State Employees Organisation outside government offices state. Though the government imposed the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act on Monday evening, it did not have any impact on the unions. However 150,000 gazetted officers of the state government withdrew from the strike after the government announced payment of Dearness Allowance to them which was pending for 14 months.

Among the departments that were affected on Tuesday included state-run hospitals and schools. However, emergency services at the hospitals were being provided normally, officials said. The offices at Mantralaya, the state governments secretariat in Mumbai, wore a deserted look as employees stayed away.

The government has so far hesitated from implementing the recommendations of the commission as it would entail a burden of Rs 21,000 crore on the state. The unions are also demanding a five-day week in all government offices and increasing the retirement age from 58 to 60. The unions are also demanding filling of over 2 lakh vacancies.
ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Sushil Manav

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 6

Senior officers of the Forest Department in Haryana have come under the scanner over the purchase of 39 lakh clone eucalyptus plants at inflated rates without approval of the state government.

The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) on Monday wrote to the Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs) of Ambala, Yamunanagar, Kaithal, Panipat, Sonepat, Rohtak, Hisar, Sirsa, Fatehabad, Bhiwani, Jind and Rewari seeking explanation for purchasing clone eucalyptus plants in violation of the rules and providing wrong information to the head office by August 8.

The letter warns that if no explanation is received by August 8, it will be presumed that they have no defence to offer. Under the rules, before the DFOs place any purchase orders at the district level or release payments, tenders are floated by the headquarters and the successful bidders name is given to the DFOs.

Without waiting for the process to complete, verbal orders were issued by a senior officer to the DFOs to place orders. While DFOs of four districts refused to place orders, many others received consignments and partially distributed plants among farmers, The Tribune has learnt.

Further, the number of plants an Andhra Pradesh-based firm claims to have supplied doesnt match with the reports submitted by the 12 DFOs.

Sources said a little over 39 lakh clone eucalyptus plants had been purchased from the firm at Rs 4.87 per plant though the firm had supplied the same plants at Rs 3.5 per unit in March, when plants for the previous financial year 2017-18 were purchased.

Joginder Karontha, president, Van Karamchari Sangh, Haryana, said: Our department has big nurseries across the state. Despite that, officers have been purchasing plants from outside. Our association has been opposing this.

The Forest Department has been distributing eucalyptus plants to farmers for plantation on agriculture land along roads and pathways under Community Forestry.

In December last year, the government disbanded its Community Forestry wing and merged it with its Territorial wing. PCCF Anil Hooda, however, maintained the purchases had been made after the tender process.

Number mismatch
Last year we came to the kids fair and signed up with Makkai and its not even a year and theyre already performing in public, Lola Allen said. They do ballet, jazz and modern dance, but ballet is at the forefront. Theyre twins and in everything they do, their enthusiasm is equal.
ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Aditi Tandon

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 6

The larger Opposition has made up its mind to oppose electronic voting machines (EVMs) and to demand a return to the ballot paper.

Seventeen parties  including the Congress, Trinamool Congress, NCP, RJD, SP, BSP, RLD and DMK  are of the view that the integrity of EVMs is doubtful and holding the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with the voting machines will undermine democracy.

These parties are mulling petitioning the Election Commission of India (ECI) for scrapping the machines.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha during Zero Hour, Trinamool Congress MP Saugata Roy claimed the EVMs could be manipulated by the ruling party. The neutrality of EVMs stands compromised. The TMC seeks that the ballot paper be brought back to conduct the 2019 elections. As many as 17 Opposition parties are planning to get together to make a representation to the EC.

To back their contention, Opposition leaders point out that several evolved democracies, such as the US and Germany, continue to rely on the ballot paper.

Congress leader Manish Tewari, backing the demand for scrapping the EVMs, said, If the EC does not see reason in the genuine demand of the Opposition, there is always the option of approaching the Supreme Court. The ECI is only one stakeholder in ensuring free and fair polls. It is obliged to address the concerns of other stakeholders as well.

He claimed that responding to an RTI query, the EC had admitted that the source code of EVMs lay outside its jurisdiction with Bharat Electronics Limited and Electronic Corporation of India Limited.

This is incredible. An election integrity activist has sent me the RTI reply where the EC admits that the source code of EVMs, which can be used to manipulate the machines, rests outside the EC jurisdiction," Tewari said.

The activist had sought to know the firmware source code of both the units used in an EVM. The reply was: This information is not available with the commission. It is likely to be available with BEL and ECIL.
rchopra@tribunemail.com

Kochi, August 7

At least three fishermen were feared dead while some others were injured after an unidentified vessel allegedly hit their fishing boat off Chettuva coast in Thrissur district early on Tuesday, officials said.

The incident occurred at around 3.30 am while the boat carrying around 15 fishermen from Munambam area of Ernakulam district was engaged in fishing off Chettuva coast, they said.

The coastal police officials said they had received information that some fishermen were missing and a few others were injured in the incident.

The matter was under investigation, they said.

The ship left the scene soon after the incident.

Meanwhile, Kerala Fisheries Minister J Mercykutty Amma told a TV channel that as per initial information three fishermen had lost their lives in the incident.

Police said the Navy and Coast Guard had been apprised of the incident.

Further details are awaited.

On June 7, two fishermen were injured when a foreign vessel allegedly hit their fishing boat off the coast here. PTI
rchopra@tribunemail.com

Lucknow, August 7

A woman was found strangled and her three minor daughters thrown off the fourth floor of a building in Etawah district of Uttar Pradesh early on Tuesday, police said.

All four have died. The husband of the woman, an egg vendor, has been arrested and is being interrogated, a police officer said.

An officer told IANS that the incident took place in Kanshiram Colony, where Chhote Lal Jatav, 28, lived with his wife Neha, 25, and three daughters--Tulsi, 7, Moni, 4, and Kallo, 2.

Neha assisted her husband in the egg cart business. The couple returned home around 10 pm on Monday and no-one saw them thereafter, a neighbour told the police.

Early on Tuesday, the bodies of the daughters were found lying near the boundary wall while Nehas body was found lying in the room.

The husband said he was not home at night and had only come back in the morning to find his family dead.

Senior Superintendent of Police Ashok Kumar Tripathi said they were interrogating the husband. IANS
editorial@tribune.com

New Delhi, August 7

A champion of Tamil, the man who wrote books, novels and dialogues for plays and movies, M Karunanidhi was an astute political leader who never lost an election in a career spanning six decades.

Leaders across the political spectrum, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, on Wednesday condoled the death of DMK patriarch, hailing him as a deep-rooted mass leader and harbinger of politics of deprived.

President Ram Nath Kovind called Karunanidhi a doyen of our public life who had few peers while Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said the Tamil leader left a mark of his own during his long public life of about 80 years.

Karunanidhi, who dominated the state's politics for over six decades along with his arch-rivals MG Ramachandran first and then with J Jayalalithaa, died at a hospital in Chennai this evening. He was 94.

JD(S) supremo HD Deve Gowda said the Tamil leader was a doyen of our public life and that his opposition to emergency will always be remembered.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said the country has lost a versatile genius who was an outstanding artist, an eminent writer and a true leader who always stood for the cause of the poor and downtrodden classes of the society.

BJP veteran LK Advani described Karunanidhi as a doyen of Indian politics and a man of committed ideals. He was a doyen of Indian politics who had started his career after independence. He was a man of committed ideals, he excelled in the field of politics and had also made valuable contributions to the Tamil literature, Advani said in a statement.

Maharashtra Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao said: In his demise, the people of Tamil Nadu have lost a Messiah of the Poor. As five times Chief Minister, Karunanidhi introduced several innovative schemes for the welfare of the weaker sections of society.  PTI

The issues that proved tricky for karunanidhi

M Karunanaidhi strode Tamil politics like a Colossus but the DMKs image suffered from 1971-76 owing to corruption and later charges against his daughter Kanimozhi and former Union Minister A Raja in the 2G case and his grand-nephew Dayanidhi Maran in telephone exchange case.

The anti-Hindi and anti-North plank of the DMK, that catapulted him to power in 1967, weakened as the DMK and AIADMK both aligned with national parties for elections, including the BJP on some occasions.

The DMK shared power at the Centre, diluting its traditional stand that the South was neglected. Having been part of the the NDA and UPA regimes, DMKs anti-Centre campaign lost sting too.

Karunanidhi was forced to toe the line of the Centre not to support the Tamil Eelam and to cede Katchatheevu island to Lanka.

Nepotism, perhaps, brought about his fall. Karunanidhis fondness for his kin led to decisions that gave room for charges against him. Groupism, fanned at times by his relatives, added to his discomfiture. The bickering took a toll on his health. In his last days, he was in and out of hospital, barely able to speak.  R Rangaraj

Kalaignar: A five-time chief minister

Muthuvel Karunanidhi (MK) was CM five times  in 1969,1971, 1989, 1996, 2006

He was MLA for 6 decades: won for first time from Kulithalai (1957) and from Tiruvarur (2016)

Was hugely influenced by DMK founder EV Ramasamy Periyar and states first CM CN Annadurai

Outmanoeuvred R Nedunchezhian to become CM after Annadurais death in Feb 1969 with MGRs help

He became DMK chief in July 1969, a post he held until his death

In 1972, MGR rebelled against MK and formed the AIADMK

In 1984, MK was elected to the Legislative Council, that was abolished by MGR govt in 1986

MK lost power to MGR protegee Jayalalithaa in 2011 and 2015

Doyen of public life, he had few peers

"Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers."  Ram Nath Kovind, President

Lost a deep-rooted mass leader

"We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised. Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress." Narendra Modi, PM

Exceptional public servant

"The country has lost a versatile genius who was an outstanding artist, an eminent writer, and a true leader who stood for the cause of the poor and downtrodden. He was an exceptional public servant and a very able administrator."  Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister

Kalaignar strode the stage of politics

"Loved by Tamilians, Kalaignar strode the stage of politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader." Rahul Gandhi, Congress chief

Cant forget his Emergency struggle

"Anguished to learn about the demise of veteran politician, M Karunanidhiji. He had an impressive life journey, starting as a screen writer in Tamil film industry to being five-term CM. No one can forget his struggle during Emergency."  Amit Shah, BJP president

TN lost its father figure

"Today India lost one of its greatest sons. And Tamil Nadu lost its father figure. Farewell Kalaignar. My deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu, DMK and family."  Mamata Banerjee, Bengal Chief Minister
ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

New Delhi, August 6

In what could sort out the ongoing debate on opening of roads for civilian use inside military cantonments, the Army has suggested exclusion of civil areas of cantonments and conversion of military pockets within them into military stations.

Entry of civilian population is barred into a military station, while in cantonments selected roads are open. The Ministry of Defence (MoD), in May, ordered the opening of 80 additional roads that led to a furore. Opinions on either side  favouring the closure and opening of roads  are sharply divided. The MoD is in the middle of deciding on what all roads to be closed.

MoS Defence Subhash Bhambre informed the Rajya Sabha about the Armys suggestion. He added no decision has been taken in the matter. The Army has conveyed to the Ministry that military areas within cantonments can be converted into exclusive military stations.  TNS
amansharma@tribunemail.com

Smita Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 7

Amid the political furore over the release of the draft NRC (National Register of Citizens) list in Assam, the government has reportedly assured Bangladesh that no Bangladeshi illegal immigrant will be deported back.

Member of Parliament and Chairman of Sufi Islamic party BTF (Bangladesh Tariqat Federation) Sayed Nazibul Bashar Maizvandary met with Junior Ministers in External Affairs and Home Ministry, M J Akbar and Kiren Rijiju, respectively, on Monday.

Speaking exclusively to The Tribune today, the Bangladeshi lawmaker said that he is assured that deportations will not take place at a time when the neighbouring country with a friendly Awami League government is expected to go to polls in end December this year. Neither of the ministers addressed them as Bangladeshis. They said they are a part of India and its economy. And plans would be worked out to integrate them subsequently, Maizvandary told The Tribune.

Maizvandary added that in his official conversations, the ministers explained that it is going to be a long-drawn process and some 40 lakh people left out of the NRC list will be scrutinised again. Mr Rijiju said the people will not be sent back. He said it is a judicial process and we do not want relations with Bangladesh to be adversely affected, said Maizvandary.

Earlier speaking at a seminar at the Observer Research Foundation, the MP also hoped that India will soon find a positive conclusion to the Teesta Water Sharing agreement. He also reiterated the need for India to leverage more with Myanmar to repatriate the nearly 11 lakh Rohingya refugees at the earliest. Failing which, he cautioned, it could become a serious security concern for both Delhi and Dhaka with Pakistan and its intelligence agency ISI fishing in troubled waters.
rchopra@tribunemail.com

Satya Prakash

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 7

The Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered a blanket ban on publication of pictures and videos of child victims of sexual abuse across India after it was told that media outlets had published images of such victims in Deoria in Uttar Pradesh.

Taking strong exception to such publication, a three-judge Bench headed by Justice Madan Lokur directed print, electronic, social media directed not to publish even blurred/morphed pictures of child victims of sexual abuse.

Earlier, a similar ban was ordered by the court with regard to victims of Muzaffarpur Shelter Home sex abuse on August 2 when after it took suo motu cognizance of the matter and issued notice to Bihar Government and the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development. "They (victims) cannot be compelled to relive the trauma again and again," it had said.

The Bench, including Justice Deepak Gupta and Justice KM Joseph, made it clear that only the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPRC) and State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (SCPRC) can interview them with the help of trained counselors.

It also orders immediate arrest of wife an accused in the Muzaffarpur Shelter Home sex abuse case for publishing child victims names on her Facebook wall.

Expressing serious concern over incidents of rape in various parts of the country, it said women were being raped left, right and centre. It referred to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data and said that every six hours; a woman was raped in India. According to NCRB data, it said 38,947 women were raped in India in 2016. What is to be done? Girls and women are getting raped left, right and centre, it remarked.

At one point, the Bench told Bihar Government was that it was funding rapes of minor girls. Youre giving money to NGOs that are doing all these things the Bench said angrily.

The Bench slammed the Delhi Commission for Women after its counsel repeatedly attempted to intervene in the proceedings. Dont do politics here, Justice Lokur told the DCW counsel, who tried justifying his action saying he was there as a concerned citizen.

As suggested by Amicus Curiae Aparna Bhat, the top court segregated the work of National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Patna and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbaithe three agencies involved in the Bihar case.

While NIMHANS will take care of the psychiatric and mental health of the child victims of sexual abuse, AIIMS will offer medical and clinical help and TISS will look into the social rehabilitation aspect, the Bench clarified.

It asked the three agencies to prepare a roadmap suggesting what could be done to improve the conditions of the children in such shelter homes.

Stating that one of the girls allegedly raped at the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was missing, Bhat demanded security for all the victims of child sexual abuse as they were needed to testify against influential accused.

TISS, which conducted an audit of shelter homes, told the court that out of 110 such institutions in Bihar, grave concerns had been raised about 15.

The Bench asked the Centre to submit in pen drive its report on survey of 8000-9000 shelter homes across India after Bhat said the report had not been made public so far.

It asked the Bihar Government, Union Ministry of Women and Child Development to file affidavits giving updates by August 14after senior counsel Ranjit Kumar and Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand, representing Bihar and the Centre, sought time to file affidavits giving proper updates on the issue.

On behalf of TIIS, advocate Vrinda Grover said earlier the methodology adopted by the state government was wrong as they never talked to the girls.

Kumar told the Bench that all the accused, except one, had been arrested and the shelter home run by the main accused Brajesh Thakur had been shut down. He said the CBI probe was being monitored by the Patna High Court.

The Bench, which is already seized of issues relating to jail and observation homes, had taken suo motu cognisance of the issue on August 2 after receiving a letter written by on Ranvijay Kumar from Patna highlighting the plight of girls in Muzaffarpur shelter home for destitute where dozens of inmates were allegedly sedated and raped.

Many of the girls were missing and its alleged that those who resisted rape were killed. The shelter home was run by a local NGO, Seva Sankalp and Vikas Samiti.

Initially an FIR was lodged against 11 people, including Thakur on May 31. Later, the Nitish Kumar government handed over the probe to the CBI.

The matter came to light after a social audit report of Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) alleged that 42 girl inmates of the Muzaffarpur Balika Grih had allegedly been sexually assaulted. The inmates were allegedly beaten up or drugged before being sexually abused.

The girl inmates have since been shifted from Muzaffarpur to other shelter homes. Medical tests confirmed that the girls had been raped.
editorial@tribune.com

Majid Jahangir

Tribune News Service

Srinagar, August 7

Four soldiers, including a gallantry award winning Major, were killed in a fierce encounter with infiltrators close to the Line of Control in Gurez sector of north Kashmirs Bandipore district on Tuesday. Two unidentified militants were also killed.

This is the first major infiltration bid and encounter along the LoC in Kashmir after the conclusion of parliamentary elections in Pakistan and comes just days ahead of Imran Khan being sworn in as Prime Minister.

While the massive counter-infiltration operation is still under way at Bakhtoor, Gurez, 170 km from Srinagar, the Army suspects more militants may be hiding in the area. It has pressed into service a team of specialised forces to search for militants in the dense forest area. The Lashkar-e-Toiba claimed its men were involved.

The slain soldiers were identified as Major Kaustubh Prakash Kumar Rane, 29, of Thane, Maharashtra; Grenadier Vikramjeet Singh, 25, of Ambala, Haryana; Rifleman Mandeep Singh Rawat, 26, of Kotdwar, Uttarakhand, and Rifleman Hameer Singh, 28, of Dunda, Uttarakhand.

Major Rane, who was attached with 36 RR, was recently promoted and awarded the Sena Medal in May 2017 for his role in the same sector.

Vikramjeet Singh, a resident of Ambalas Tepla village, had tied the knot a few months ago.

The gunfight began around 1 am when an Army patrol noticed the movement of at least eight heavily-armed militants and challenged them near Armys Panth post at Bakhtoor.

They fired at the soldiers and in the intense gunfight, a Major and three soldiers of 36 RR were killed, a source said, adding that two militants were also shot dead in the gunfight.

Sources said at least four militants managed to return to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. However, we suspect two militants are still hiding in the area and the operation is under way, the source said.

Srinagar-based defence spokesman Col Rajesh Kalia said the infiltration bid was foiled in Gurez by the Army.

Gurez is among the toughest routes to sneak into the Valley along the 350-km-long LoC in the region. In the past, militants have waded through the Kishanganga river to infiltrate into Gurez.

In May, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the 330-MW Kishanganga Hydroelectric Project in Gurez. Pakistan had objected to the project.
ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 6

Speaking in the Lok Sabha during Zero Hour, Congress MPs from Punjab on Monday attacked Akali leaders for fanning a radical agenda in Punjab and warned them against playing with fire.

Flashing copies of The Tribune, which reported a Pakistan ISI hand behind the Sikh Referendum Campaign 2020, Ludhiana MP Ravneet Singh Bittu said: When secessionist elements are raising their ugly head, I stand here in grief not because I lost my grandfather to terrorism in Punjab but because MPs of a certain party (read Akali Dal) are demanding leniency for the killer of the late Punjab CM, who was assassinated for backing national unity.

Bittu was referring to Akali Dal MPs recently petitioning Home Minister Rajnath Singh for commuting the death sentence of Babbar Khalsa terrorist Balwant Singh Rajoana, the assassin of Beant Singh, to life imprisonment. The delegation comprised Akali Dal members SS Dhindsa, Prem Singh Chandumajra, Ranjit Singh Brahmpura and Balwinder Singh Bhundar, besides SGPC president Gobind Singh Longowal.

They said the execution of the death sentence of Rajoana had the potential to reignite communal passions. It is shocking that elected Members of Parliament of a certain party should seek forgiveness for someone who says he does not believe in the Indian Constitution and was not regretful for what he had done. Rajoana even says he would repeat what he had done, of given a chance. The Akali Dal is fuelling the fire in Punjab but let me

warn them against this attempt because another Beant Singh will not be born, Bittu said.

Akali Dal MP Prem Singh Chandumajra was quick to retort to the Congress attack by asking the party-led government in Punjab why a CBI probe into the desecration of Guru Granth Sahib in 2015 was being delayed.

When Akali Dal was in power, it expedited the probe. What is the Congress doing? We demand that the CBI report on the sacrilege of the holy book be concluded as soon as possible, Chandumajra said.

Green party endorses pro-khalistan rally

Moga: UKs left-leaning Green Party has endorsed the August 12 pro-Khalistan rally at Trafalgar Square in London, which the Indian Government is trying to block through diplomatic efforts. This rally is being organised by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a New York-based advocacy group, with the help of Khalistani activists based in Europe to garner support for Referendum 2020, proposed to press demand for a separate Sikh homeland. TNS
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 7

Punjab Congress President and Gurdaspur MP Sunil Jakhar today attacked the Government in Lok Sabha for seeking personal details of petrol pump staff from all dealers and stalling supplies in the event of refusals.

Citing a recent expose by The Tribune on how oil companies had written to petrol dealers seeking details of their staff, Jakhar said, This is a fine example of a cash for vote scam because the oil companies are promising a certificate from the Centre plus Rs 500 per person whose details are received. The payment of money will be timed with Lok Sabha elections. This is cash for votes.

Jakhar was speaking during the Zero Hour and demanded urgent response of the Petroleum Minister on the matter.

He quoted The Tribune to say the dealers who had refused to comply with oil companies diktat were being punished with stalled supplies.

The dealers, Jakhar told the LS, were being asked to send caste, religion and constituency details of staffers.

Why is this necessary, the Congress leader asked.
Reached on Tuesday evening on her way to a fundraiser, Simpson said she had heard the news of his decision to step aside, and she released the following statement: My best wishes are with Aaron and I hope he gets well. I am focused on my campaign to end corruption at Lake County and to bring property tax relief to my neighbors in the 18th district.
monicakchauhan@gmail.com

Satya Prakash

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 7

Putting at rest the seven-month-old controversy over his elevation, Justice KM Joseph on Tuesday took oath as a judge of the Supreme Court along with two other judges, who were administered oath by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra before him.

The much-hyped swearing-in ceremony took place in court no. 1 i.e. the CJI's court which was jam-packed, with many advocates and journalists failing to gain entry.

The two judges administered oath before Justice KM Joseph were Justice Indira Banerjee and Justice Vineet Saran as their names figured at number 1 and 2 in the Warrant of Appointment signed by the President last week.

With three more judges taking oath, strength of the Supreme Court has risen to 25 against the sanctioned strength of 31 judges, including the CJI.

Justice Joseph  who struck down the President's rule in Uttarakhand in 2016, has been hitting national headlines since then for one reason or the other.

Despite objections raised by some senior judges against undermining of Justice Joseph's "seniority", there was no change in the seniority and Justice Joseph was the last one to take oath.

Family members and close relatives of the new judges were present in the court to witness the swearing-in ceremony.

Justice Joseph's wife, son, daughter and son-in-law were seen taking pictures after the swearing-in.

After the ceremony, courts started functioning at 11.30 am and the three new judges sat in the first three courts.

While Justice Banerjee sat with the CJI and Justice DY Chandrachud in court number 1, Justice Saran went to court number 2 and sat with Justice Gogoi and Justice Navin Sinha.

On his first day in the top court, Justice Joseph sat in court no. 3 with Justice Madan B Lokur and Justice Deepak Gupta and among other cases, heard Bihar Shelter Home sex abuse case.

According to the January 10, resolution of the Collegium that recommended Justice Joseph's name for elevation to the top court for the first time, he was at serial number 45 in the combined seniority of High Court Judges on all-India basis. He was appointed as a high court judge on October 14, 2004 and he was made chief justice of a high court on July 31, 2014. He will retire as an SC judge on June 16, 2023.

Justice Banerjee was at serial number 4 while Justice Saran stood at serial number 5 in the combined seniority of high court judges on all-India basis, stated the July 16 resolution of the Collegium which recommended their names for elevation as Supreme Court judges.

Appointed as a high court judge on February 5, 2002, Justice Banerjee went on to become chief justice of a high court on April 5, 2017. She would retire on September 23, 2022 as a top court judge.

Justice Saran  who was appointed as a high court judge on February 14, 2002  became chief justice of a high court on February 26, 2016. He will retire on May 20, 2022 as an SC judge.

Some senior judges were upset at undermining of "seniority" of Justice Joseph as his name was originally recommended by the Collegium on January 10 along with that of senior advocate Indu Malhotra  more than six months before Justice Banerjee and Justice Sharan got recommended for elevation.

As the government returned Justice Joseph's file to the Collegium for reconsideration in April, Justice Malhotra was administered oath of office. The government had cited seniority and regional representation as grounds for returning Justice Joseph's name for reconsideration.
rchopra@tribunemail.com

Muzaffarnagar, August 7

A 15-year-old girl from New Mandi police station area in Muzaffarnagar city was allegedly abducted and raped by a man over several days, a police official said on Tuesday.

According to SHO Harsharan Sharma, accused Vishal abducted the girl on July 15 and took her to another city and raped her there.

He has been booked under various sections of the IPC and POCSO Act. The accused had been absconding after the girls father registered a case in the matter, Sharma said.

A medical examination of the girl is being conducted.

The girls father has alleged that his daughter managed to escape from Vishals captivity and reached her home.

In an unrelated incident, a 16-year-old girl has been reported missing in the city. She had gone to attend her tuition classes in Model Town area on Monday evening, another police official said.

Civil Lines police station SHO DK Tyagi said a woman had filed a complaint, alleging that miscreants had abducted her daughter. A search is under way to locate the girl, Tyagi said. PTI
rchopra@tribunemail.com

Aditi Tandon

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 7

TMC, NCP, Left and SP have declined to put up a candidate for the Thursday election to the post of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, leaving it for the Congress to fight.

The meeting was held in the chamber of Ghulam Nabi Azad, Leader of opposition in the Rajya Sabha, and attended by NCP chief Sharad Pawar, TMC leader Derek O Brien, SPs Ram Gopal Yadav, CPIs D Raja, and a representative of AAP.

In initial discussions the name of NCP member Vandana Chavan is under active consideration, said opposition sources.

The Congress is also in touch with the BJD which was to communicate their stand to the opposition by lunch on Tuesday. The BJD has not reverted.

The NCP, meanwhile, is engaging the Shiv Sena which may vote with the opposition as the candidate is a Marathi. That explains initial agreement on Chavans candidature.

The Congress has not fully revealed its mind on the issue of nomination and is still in talks with the TDP, BJD and the Shiv Sena to see how the numbers stack up.

The illness of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi is also bothering the opposition. If his health deteriorates the DMK camp may not even come back for voting on Thursday.

The numbers game is very close, sources said, with the government ahead of the opposition only marginally.



Akalis to meet in evening

The Akali Dal for its part is also meeting this evening at the residence of Sukhbir Badal to take a final call on whether to vote with the BJP in the election or to abstain. Akali leader Prem Singh Chandumajra said a final call will be taken this evening.
gspannu7@gmail.com

Kathmandu, August 7

Over 100 Indian pilgrims were airlifted on Tuesday after being stranded for three days in Nepals Humla district on their way back home from the Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage in Tibet.

Out of the 165 pilgrims who were stranded in Humlas Simikot due to bad weather, 110 were airlifted after flights were operated following improvement in weather conditions, according to Indian Embassy sources.

Around 55 pilgrims are still in Simikot and they will be evacuated tomorrow.

The pilgrims were stranded for three days as commercial flights could not operate due to bad weather.

Heavy rains in central and western Nepal have forced domestic airlines to suspend their regular flights.

Last month, more than 1,500 Indians were stranded at various places in Nepal on their way to Kailash Mansarovar and back.

Following the incident, the Indian government on July 5 had issued an advisory for travel to Kailash Mansarovar through the Nepal route.

The advisory had stated that Simikot and Hilsa are places lacking good medical and lodging facilities and therefore, pilgrims should get themselves medically examined before starting their pilgrimage and also carry medicines for up to a period of one month.

Simikot and Hilsa are connected to the rest of the world only by small aircraft or helicopters and there is no other way to travel in and out of these places.

These small aircraft or helicopters can operate only when the weather is absolutely clear, as the terrain and route is extremely dangerous.

The embassy has deputed its representatives at Hilsa, Simikot and Humla for monitoring and taking action in case of emergency.  PTI
uttara@tribuneindia.com

Chennai, August 7

The Dravida Munnetra Kazagham approached the Madras High Court on Tuesday evening for a resting place and a memorial for their late patriarch M Karunanidhi, after the Tamil Nadu government turned down their request.

Controversy erupted after the state government rejected opposition DMK's demand, instead offering space near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamraj.

DMK working president MK Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina.

Stalin had also met the chief minister hours before his father's death.

A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications". Hence, the government is prepared to allot a 2-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

Some reports said the government was reluctant about allotting space for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina as he was not a sitting chief minister.

Former chief minister M G Ramachandran and his protegee J Jayalalitha were buried at the Marina Beach and memorials to them were erected there. Both were bitter foes of Karunanidhi in politics.

Karunanidhi's predecessor Annadurai was also in office when he died.

DMK cadres held impromptu protests and engaged in sloganeering demanding a place for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina beach. Agencies
ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 6

The Rajya Sabha on Monday passed a Bill amending the Constitution which provides giving Constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Commission (NCBC).

The Opposition members supported the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, even though they said during the debate that it needed improvement, and suggested that there should be a provision for having woman and a member from a minority community on the proposed commission.

Several members also urged the government to make public the findings of the caste census, and preparation of a fresh OBC list accordingly. The 1931 Census is presently in vogue. There had been frequent demand in Parliament to imbue the OBC Commission with constitutional status, since over two decades. From time to time, it also echoes outside Parliament, making the issue highly political issue.

Replying to the debate on the Bill in Rajya Sabha, Union Social Justice Minister Thawarchand Gehlot said a woman and most backward member will be on the commission. Addressing concerns raised by Opposition Members that the Bill gives sweeping power to the NCBC over the states with regard inclusion and exclusion of castes in OBC list, the minister assured it would not encroach in the jurisdiction of the states.

It would be only related to the jurisdiction of the Centre, and would have nothing to do with the states, which have their own backward commissions. The Centre has its own list of castes in the OBC.

With regard demand for doing away with creamy layer, he said the formula regarding it was being continued. With regard sub-categorisation of OBCs, it will be considered after Justice Rohini Commission submits its recommendation.

Initiating the debate, BK Hariprasad of the Congress said not many OBC judges are in the judiciary. He said the creamy layer must go because many OBCs get deprived from getting a chance in the UPSC. The Upper House in July last year had passed with amendments to the Bill which was adopted by the Lower House. It had returned it to the Lower House for consideration of amendments made to it. The Lower House, however, made alternate amendments and sent it back to the Upper House.
editorial@tribune.com

Satya Prakash

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 7

The Supreme Court on Tuesday took strong exception to press statements of Assam National Register of Citizens (NRC) Coordinator and Registrar General terming them "highly improper".

Warning the two officials of contempt, a Bench, headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi, asked them to be cautious in future. The Bench, which also included Justice RF Nariman, took cognisance of media reports on the issue. The judges said they were not taking any contempt action in view of the fact that they had a lot more to do to publish the final NRC.

You are officers of the court. What is all this?..What you say also reflects on the court, the Bench told Assam NRC Co-ordinator Prateek Hajela. As Hajela apologised to the court, Justice Nariman continued: What apology? We find this very strange. I am appalled.

Who are you to say all this? We should be holding both of you guilty of contempt. Im sending both of you to jail, the Bench said, taking exception to their media encounters. Hajela sought to pacify the Bench by saying that they just tried to dispel any misgivings and apprehensions among people and promised not speak to the press in future.

Amid uproar over Draft NRC in Assam that excluded 40 lakh people, the Supreme Court had on July 31 made it clear that it cant form the basis for any action, as it was only a draft NRC.

It had asked the Centre to prepare a standard operating procedure (SOP) for deciding claims and objections against exclusions and inclusions by August 16, the next date of hearing. It said the process adopted had to be fair and every affected person must be given proper opportunity to be heard before their claims and objections were disposed of.

The final Draft NRC for Assam published on Monday excluded over 40 lakh people, 12% of Assam's population, in a Supreme Court-monitored exercise to identify genuine Indian nationals living in the state. To be recognised as citizens, all residents had to produce documents proving that they or their families lived in India before March 24, 1971.

The Bench had said once the SOP was prepared it would approve it if the process adopted was fair.
ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Satya Prakash

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 6

At least two senior Supreme Court judges on Monday raised with Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra the issue of altering the seniority of Justice KM Joseph, who is scheduled to take oath as a top court judge on Tuesday along with Justice Indira Banerjee and Justice Vineet Sharan.

Justice Madan B Lokur and Justice Kurian Joseph  who also happen to be members of the Supreme Court collegium  raised the issue with CJI Misra during the morning tea in the judges lounge before going to their respective courts, sources said.

The CJI told the senior judges that he would consult Justice Ranjan Gogoi, the seniormost judge after the CJI. Justice Gogoi, who is likely to replace CJI Misra in less than two months, was on leave on Monday. After the judges met him, the CJI consulted Attorney General KK Venugopal, sources said.

The CJI is scheduled to administer oath to the three judges on Tuesday, taking strength of the Supreme Court to 25 against the sanctioned strength of 31 judges. According to the January 10 resolution of the collegium that recommended Justice Josephs name for elevation to the top court for the first time, he was at serial number 45 in the combined seniority of High Court judges on an all-India basis. After taking oath as a top court judge, he will retire on June 16, 2023.

Justice Banerjee was at serial number 4 while Justice Saran stood at serial number 5 in the combined seniority of HC judges, stated the July 16 resolution of the collegium which recommended their names for elevation.

Justice Banerjee would retire on September 23, 2022 and Justice Saran on May 10, 2022. However, sources said some senior judges were upset at undermining of the seniority of Justice Joseph as his name was originally recommended by the collegium on January 10 along with that of senior advocate Indu Malhotra  more than six months before the other two judges got recommended for elevation.

While issuing the warrant of appointment, the government put Justice Joseph at number three, which undermines his chances of becoming a member of the top courts collegium.
editorial@tribune.com

New Delhi/Chennai: The Ministry of Home Affairs has decided to accord state funeral to former Chief Minister and DMK president M Karunanidhi M Karunanidhi. Also, the national flag will fly at half-mast on Wednesday in Delhi, all state capitals and across Tamil Nadu as a mark of respect to the Dravidian leader.

The Tamil Nadu Government also announced a seven-day mourning. The Indian national flag would fly half mast during this period and all government-related functions would be cancelled, Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan said.

The orders were issued by Chief Minister K Palaniswami following the death of the veteran leader, she said in a statement. The government has declared a day's holiday on Wednesday for his final rites. His mortal remains would be kept at Rajaji Hall for VIPs and public to pay homage, she said.

State honours will be accorded to Karunanidhi and the Tricolour will be draped over him, she said, adding a gun salute will also be given to the late leader. Palaniswami has directed that a condolence message be published in the state gazette, she said.

Meanwhile, the DMK presidents body will be brought to the stately Rajaji Hall here to enable political leaders, the public and party cadres to pay homage, the party said. Karunanidhi's body will be brought to Rajaji Hall in the Government Estate here at 4 am on Wednesday and arrangements have already been made for people to pay their homage, it said. PTI
ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

New Delhi, August 6

The Supreme Court on Monday refused to grant anticipatory bail to two priests, accused of sexually abusing a married woman in the Kerala church sex scandal, and asked them to surrender before police by August 13.

A Bench of Justices AK Sikri and Ashok Bhushan said the two were at liberty to seek regular bail once they have surrendered.

The Kerala Police had on July 2 registered a case against four priests on the basis of a statement by a woman belonging to the same church who accused them of sexually assaulting her.

The four priests, attached to the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church, were accused of sexually abusing the 34-year-old by allegedly using her confessional statement.

While two surrendered, two approached the SC for anticipatory bail after the Kerala HC rejected their plea.  PTI
Two concrete examples were seen over the last two weeks along Route 120, between Grayslake and Round Lake. First, the Illinois Department of Transportation finally opened a right-turn lane for westbound Route 120 at Hainesville Road that has been under construction since snow was still flying and has been needed since at least the first Gulf War.
rchopra@tribunemail.com

New Delhi, August 7

With opposition parties raising serious concern over the alleged sexual exploitation of girls at a childrens shelter home in Uttar Pradesh, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday termed the incident shameful and declared that no culprit would escape action.

Singh also told the Lok Sabha that two senior officials of the state government were probing the matter.

Opposition members, including those from the SP and the RJD, raised the issue and referred to a similar incident at Muzaffarpur in Bihar.

No culprit will escape action, Singh said, adding that the state government had taken quick action in the case. He described such incidents as unfortunate, sad and shameful.

He said the district administrative officer had been suspended and the manager of the shelter home as well as her husband had been arrested.

Additional Chief Secretary and a Director General-level officer are probing the case, Singh said.

The Home Minister said he would ask the ministries concerned to send out advisories to states to ensure that such incidents did not occur.

Soon after the Home Ministers response, members of the SP, RJD, Congress and TMC staged a walkout from the House.

Amid the protests and heated exchanges between the Treasury and the Opposition benches, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said everyone is concerned about these incidents which is not good. She urged everyone not to play politics with it.

She suggested that all members should also keep a tab in their constituencies so that such incidents did not happen.

Twenty-four girls were rescued from a shelter home in Deoria in Uttar Pradesh after allegation of sexual exploitation of the inmates came to light a few days ago. As many as 18 inmates are reportedly missing.

Raising serious concerns about the case, SP member Dharmendra Yadav said strict action should be taken against the culprits. Atrocities had been committed against the girls, Yadav said, adding that he did not want to play politics on the issue.

RJD member Jai Prakash Narayan Yadav also raised the issue.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge asked the Speaker to set up a House Committee to probe the incidents which had happened in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Noting that it is a serious issue, he said the committee should visit all states and try to find out why such things are happening.

BJP member from Uttar Pradesh Kalraj Mishra said the licence of the childrens shelter home was cancelled a year ago and then the matter went to court. The process of shifting the girls and the boys had started, he added.

Holding placards, TDP members also walked into the Well seeking to raise issues related to Andhra Pradesh. PTI
gspannu7@gmail.com

New Delhi, August 7

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of remaining silent on incidents of alleged rape, including in shelter homes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, and asserted that what is happening against women during his tenure had not happened in the previous 3,000 years in India.

Gandhi also said that his aim was to have 50 per cent women in the Congress while asserting that the BJP cannot put forward such a vision as its parent organisation, the RSS, was a male chauvinist organisation.

Taking a swipe at the governments campaign of beti bachao, beti padhao, he said it was actually for saving the daughters from BJP MLAs, an apparent reference to some BJP leaders accused in rape cases.

He alleged that Modi had remained silent over the atrocities against women in the backdrop of rapes of girls in shelter homes in Muzaffarpur in Bihar and in Uttar Pradesh.

The prime minister speaks on everythingbullet train, aero planes, toilets, but not women. Whenever there are atrocities on women, he does not speak up, Gandhi said.

(He) had talked about changing India, had talked about 70 years...what they have done against women in the last four years, had not happened in the previous 3,000 years in this country, leave alone 70 years, Gandhi said.

The Congress leader, while addressing a Mahila Adhikaar Sammelan at Talkatora Stadium here, promised to extend his partys full support to the passage of the women reservation Bill and said if the Modi government does not bring it, the Congress will do so soon after coming to power.

He also talked of empowering women within the Congress and bringing them forward in the organisation, for them to lead a state or the country one day.

He promised to include more women in central units of the AICC, saying the country needs them.

In UP women are raped, the prime minister does not say a word on it. In Jharkhand and in various states women are raped, in Bihar small girls are raped, but our prime minister cannot speak a word on it, he said.

In a reference to the Unnao rape case, Gandhi said that in UP their MLA is accused of rape, but the prime minister does not say a word.

Women across the country go out scared, he claimed.

The Congress chief also said that whenever the prime minister goes abroad, he embraces leaders, but has no answer to the questionwhy women are not safe in India.

He promised to bring women to the forefront of the party in framing policy, manifesto and strengthening the organisation. He said his job as the Congress president is to ensure women have equal space in the organisation.

We are going to create space for you in the Congress party. We need to create special space for women in our party. We need to create a space at every level.

The RSS and the BJP will never be able to show the country a similar vision. Their parent organisation, the RSS, in its history has never allowed a woman into its organisation, Gandhi said.

There are other organisations in the BJP that have females in it, but the RSS is a completely male chauvinist organisation that does not believe in giving space to women, Gandhi alleged, adding that they simply cant do what we can do.

The day one woman enters the RSS, it will not remain the RSS, Gandhi said.

The ideology of the BJP and the RSS is that India will be run by men, women cannot run this country, he said.

Womens place is at the back and mens place is in front. This is the biggest difference between us and them, the Congress leader said.

Launching a fierce attack on the prime minister, Gandhi said various institutions were under attack from the BJP and the RSS, who have devastated the country, and that the Congress party will unitedly defeat them in the coming days.

Institutions are under attack in the country, be it Parliament, vidhan sabhas and the judiciary. Minorities, Dalits, women, tribals, small businessmen are under attack. We will fight the BJP and defeat them in the coming days.

The Congress party and the opposition are working together to fight the ideology of the BJP. We are fighting an ideological battle, he said.  PTI
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Satya Prakash

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 7

The Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered a blanket ban on publication of pictures and videos of child victims of sexual abuse across the country, even as it raised serious concern over how incidents of rape, saying sexual assaults were happening left, right and centre.

Taking strong exception to the publication of images of child victims in Deoria in Uttar Pradesh, a three-judge Bench headed by Justice Madan Lokur directed the media not to publish even blurred/morphed pictures.

Earlier, a similar ban was ordered with regard to victims of the Muzaffarpur shelter home sex abuse on August 2. They cannot be compelled to relive the trauma again and again, it had said.

The Bench, including Justices Deepak Gupta and KM Joseph, made it clear that only the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) can interview them with the help of counsellors.

It also ordered immediate arrest of the wife of an accused in the Muzaffarpur shelter home sex abuse case for publishing child victims names on her Facebook wall.

Expressing concern over incidents of rape, the SC referred to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, which suggested a woman was raped in India every six hours. According to the data, it said 38,947 women were raped in India in 2016. What is to be done? Girls and women are getting raped left, right and centre, it remarked.
monicakchauhan@gmail.com

New Delhi, August 7

Two men were arrested for allegedly robbing wigs worth Rs 25 lakh in outer Delhi's Nangloi area.

The accused were identified as Mangel Sain (42) and Ajay Kumar (42) in connection with the incident that was reported on July 27, police said.

During investigation, it was found that Kumar is a wig trader and had even carried out a recce of the shop 3-4 days before the incident.

He had met the victims and told them that he would come back to buy 10 kg of hair.

On July 27, police were informed at 8:40 am about hair robbery.

A man named Jahangir Hussain alleged that he, along with his brother Tajjudin, reside at the first floor of the premises. Three men posing as customers visited their shop and began inspecting the wigs.

Suddenly, one of them threatened the complainants with a country-made pistol and overpowered them. The accused confined them in a room and robbed 5-6 gunny bags of hair, Rs 30,000 along with their mobile phones, Seju P Kuruvilla, Deputy Commissioner of Police (outer), said.

Based on the technical inputs, a police team was sent to Rampur, Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh and call detail records of the accused were analysed, he said.

During investigation, it was learnt that after using one SIM card for a few days, the accused used to change the SIM cards.

Subsequently, raids were conducted at Sain's address in Bareilly, but he was found to be absconding from his house.

On August 5, police apprehended him from Rampur and recovered three mobile phones from him, the DCP said.

During interrogation, Sain disclosed that on July 25, he along with one Rahul, Rajesh and two other men came from UP in an Omni Van and remained stationed at GT Road, he said.

On July 26, the accused, along with Rahul came to Nangloi and hatched conspiracy of robbery with Kumar. As per plan, on July 27, Sain along with two men entered inside the premises of complainants' house posing as customers and executed the plan, while the other remained in a car which was parked outside the complainant's house, the officer said.

The accused disclosed that the robbed hair were kept with Kumar. Subsequently, he was arrested. He disclosed that the robbed hair is kept in Laxmi Nagar, following which a raid was conducted and 118 Kg robbed hair was recovered from Ganesh Nagar, Pandav Nagar, Delhi and from his godown in the presence of complainants, he added.

Four bags containing 118 kg of robbed hair and a country-made pistol with two live cartridges were recovered from their possession, police said. PTI
amansharma@tribunemail.com

Smita Sharma

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, August 7

The 33-year-old Karmapa Lama, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, has said he is all set to return to India later this year. According to sources, the Karmapa over the past few months has signalled through various actions, including celebration of the Dalai Lamas birthday to sharing stage with representatives of Central Tibetan Administration as well as Chinese dissidents, that he is one with the Dalai Lama and with the Tibetan cause.

The young Karmapa who has been in the US for the past one year citing medical treatment, has a cramped accommodation in Dharamsala where he was housed under intense security for 18 years since he fled Tibet in December 1999. Post 2013 though his movement in an out of the country was eased.

The Karmapa, head of the 900-year-old Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, was last week in Washington DC to attend a ministerial on religious freedom sponsored by State Department where he focused on plight and freedom of Tibetan people.

Later in an interview to Voice of America, he said, I did have plans to return at the end of June, but then there were many rumours around, saying I was going to stay in the US or I was going to China, and also in some departments of the Indian governments secret services were giving out confusing reports about me. I have no plans whatsoever to return to China, and I will return to India in the near future.

Sources say the Karmapa is in touch with Indian government representatives and discussions are on to offer him better accommodation in the national capital region and greater freedom to gloss over past mistrust issues. Amitabh Mathur, adviser to Ministry of Home Affairs, who has had a long association with the Karmapa and met him recently during a personal visit to the US, says the timing of the return is not so important. I did meet him in a personal capacity. I was carrying no brief nor did he assign any brief to me. He said he intends to return to India. And I have no reason to doubt him, Mathur told The Tribune.

In another recent interview with the Tibetan service of Radio Free Asia (RFA) in Washington, the Karmapa underlined that in principle there is agreement to return to India in November to participate in a meeting called by the Dalai Lama. In November of this year, there will be an important meeting of the heads of the major Tibetan Buddhist traditions in Dharamsala. Therefore, I must attend, the Karmapa told RFA.

Blessed by the Dalai Lama, the 17th Karmapa Lama has in the past spoken to the media about alleged ill-treatment by the Indian government and security agencies. Previously, I was held to be a Chinese spy and there were other false accusations. These we cleared up and the Ministry of Defence adopted a new position, so I was able to visit places, such as Sikkim, where previously I was not permitted to go, the Karma told VOA.
gspannu7@gmail.com

Jaipur, August 7

A woman officer of Indian Revenue Service allegedly committed suicide by hanging herself in her home in Jaipur, a police official said on Tuesday.

Binny Sharma, 35, was found hanging in her home in AG colony this morning, Additional DCP (East) Hanuman Prasad said.

The body has been moved to a nearby hospital for postmortem.

A 2008-batch IRS officer, Sharma was posted as deputy commissioner in the central goods and services tax commissionerate in Jaipur, while her husband is also a government officer posted in Chandigarh.

"Reasons of the suicide are not immediately clear and the matter is being probed," the officer said.  PTI.
editorial@tribune.com

Jupinderjit Singh

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 7

Accepting a recommendation of the Justice Ranjit Singh (retd) Commission, the Faridkot Police on Tuesday lodged an FIR against unknown cops under Sections 307 (attempt to murder), 323, 148 and 149 of the IPC and provisions of the Arms Act for injuring anti-sacrilege protesters in firing at Kotkapura in October 2015.

Earlier in the day, state DGP Suresh Arora ordered the registration of the FIR after taking legal advice on whether the police could do the same on the basis of the Commission report or on the statement of an injured protester, Avtar Singh. Arora told The Tribune that the complainant had to be an individual, not a Commission. The probe into the case has already been handed over to the CBI.

Ajit Singh had suffered bullet injuries on the thighs in the firing. The Commission had recorded his statement and later stated that subsequent investigation revealed the names of 10 police officials, who were responsible for ordering the firing on protesters or had fired themselves.

Raj Bachan Singh Sandhu, Faridkot SSP, said Ajit Singh recorded his statement before the police on Tuesday evening, following which the FIR was registered. He said the earlier two FIRs did not include the Kotkapura incident. The first FIR was registered at Bajakhana police station on October 14, 2015, on the complaint of Amarjit Singh, SHO, under Sections 307, 435, 332, 333, 353, 283, 186, 148 and 149 of the IPC, Sections 25, 27, 54 and 59 of the Arms Act, and Sections 3 and 4 of the Damage to Public Property Act. The SHO had accused unknown persons of attacking a police party with kirpans, stones and firearms when the cops asked the protesters to lift the blockade of the Kotkapura-Bathinda road at Behbal Kalan village.

As per the FIR, then Moga SSP Charanjit Sharma; his reader, Pardeep Singh; Bikramjit Singh, then SP (investigation); Inspectors Harpal Singh Grewal, Maninder Bedi, Sandeep Vadera and Dalbir Singh and others were among the officials attacked by the mob.

The second FIR was registered on October 21, 2015, a week after the killing of two Sikh protesters in police firing at Behbal Kalan.

(Inputs from Balwant Garg)

Other two FIRs
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Moga, August 7

After a crackdown on interstate smugglers of poppy husk, the Moga police on Tuesday conducted raids at various places to nab kingpin Buta Singh and two of his associates, who had given the slip to the cops.

The police recovered 60-kg poppy husk from the house of Shinder Singh at Daulewala village on Tuesday. He had fled away along with Buta Singh and Jagdev Singh on Monday. The police had registered another FIR under Section 15, 61 and 85 of the IPC against him.

The police on Monday recovered more than 70 quintals of poppy husk from a truck near Mehna village in Moga district and arrested two drug smugglers Dharamjit Singh of Landeke village and Gurveer Singh of Rania village.

Gurpreet Singh, SSP, said both were produced before a local court, which sent them to police custody for three days. He added that these drug smugglers used to bring poppy husk from Chittorgarh district in Rajasthan for sale in Moga and its adjoining areas. They were engaged in this illegal business for the past many years.

Toor said during preliminary investigations it came to notice that these smugglers transmitted money to their Rajasthan counterparts through hawala operators.
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Moga, August 6

The police arrested two persons and seized over 70 quintals of poppy husk from their possession, SSP Gurpreet Singh Toor said here on Monday.

A police team intercepted a truck, which was on its way to Jagraon from Kotkapura, near Mehna village in the district. During a search, the cops found poppy husk hidden under banana crates. Dharamjit Singh and Gurdip Singh were arrested. Their accomplices, Shinder Singh and Deba Singh of Dholewala village, managed to flee.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the poppy husk belonged to drug smuggler Buta Singh, who is on the run. AIG (Counter Intelligence) HPS Khakh said the accused had planned to smuggle the consignment from Rajasthan to Punjab.

Drug peddlers nabbed

Abohar: The police claimed to have nabbed Gursewak Singh of Roopnagar border village with 400 habit forming tablets, Sukhbir Singh of Dalmirkhera with 4 kg poppy husk and Himmat Bedi of Gobind Nagari with 5 kg of poppy husk. Separate cases under the NDPS Act were registered. In the neighbouring Sriganganagar, the police seized 350 sedative tablets from two persons.  OC
editorial@tribune.com

GS Paul

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, August 7

Wrongly placed barbed wire fencing has made life difficult for farmers of Rania and Kakkar villages, besides creating security gaps along the Indo-Pak border.

At least 2,750 acres of land that belongs to India stands divided as the fence which begins from border pillar no. 95\\\/5S to pillar no. 95\\\/7G has been positioned over 1 km ahead of the zero line between India and Pakistan.

With this lapse, the farmers who intend to till their land beyond this fence not only face difficulty in reaching their fields, but also sometimes have to face the wrath of the BSF and the police since this stretch has become a favourite spot for infiltrators and drug smugglers.

The issue was raised by Amritsar MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla in Parliament on Tuesday. He demanded immediate rectification by re-fixing the fence nearer to the zero line, touching Kakkar village. He said even the Punjab governments seed farm was located beyond this barbed fence.

Due to the anomaly, the farmers of the assembly constituencies of Chogawan block (Raja Sansi), near Kakkar village, and Attari have to go through multiple security checks before crossing over the fence gates to work in their fields.

On the other hand, the security agencies also face issues as this 2,000-acre stretch is too vast to be monitored at night with limited lighting arrangements.

This is the same spot from where the BSF had seized heroin worth over Rs 20 crore on two occasions between July 1 and 11. The contraband was found stashed in tractor drawbars.

This misplaced fence over 1.25 km should be re-fixed to give relief to farmers and the security agencies. The issue poses a serious threat to the national security. I thus demand an instant and permanent solution, Aujla said in Parliament.

Residents of Kakkar village Sukhdev Singh Kakkar and Jasbir Singh said five gates of BSF (89, 90, 91, 92 and 92-A) were located along the fence. We have to face rigorous security check as our fields are located beyond this wrongly fixed fence. We are allowed to work in our fields only between 10 am and 4 pm, they said.

Kehar Singh, Rania village sarpanch, said the farmers were grilled by the police, if some contraband was recovered from their fields. The farmers leave the fields by 4 pm. After that, if some Pakistani smuggler sneaks in drugs or other illegal material, the farmer from whose field it is recovered is taken to task by cops, he said.

Aujla demanded the construction of concrete tracks along the barbed wire on the lines of Rajasthan border for an easy movement of residents and security personnel in the area.

wire woes
This is about the panhandlers. I think the police ought to do their job and make sure that they arent standing out in the middle of the road. One day, the same guy who I see everywhere, was standing right in the middle of the island at Washington and 45. Then he was up by 45 and Grand one time, right in the center island where the light pole is in the triangle part. I mean, if somebody comes around the corner and doesnt see him or he steps out or falls off, hes as good as dead. These people need to be controlled as far as where theyre standing, for their safety and other peoples safety. The police need to go up and down Grand and 45 right there. This guy is the same guy that Ive seen in like five different places. Hes going to get hurt.
amansharma@tribunemail.com

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 7

Accepting the recommendation of the Justice Ranjit Singh Commission to act against police firing incident at Behbal Kalan, the Punjab Director General of Police has issued orders to register a fresh FIR into the incident.

A senior officer said the FIR would be registered against unknown police officials, who may be identified and nominated in the FIR after further investigation by the CBI.

The FIR would be lodged on the statement of Avtar Singh, who was injured in police firing on a mob protesting against sacrilege incidents in October 2015-16.

Police officials explained that the commission cannot be a complainant in the case and hence the statement of Avtar Singh was required.

The police official dismissed as speculative the recent media reports on the delay in FIR. He said the police have to follow a process in such cases.
harinder@tribunemail.com

Rajmeet Singh

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 6

After private institutions, several government secondary schools and technical educational institutes are under the scanner for alleged irregularities in the disbursal of SC post-matric scholarship funds.

In an ongoing audit, at least 60 such institutions have come under the radar of the audit team.

Information accessed by The Tribune reveals that institutions have been found committing irregularities on account of fee claims against dropout students or without providing the mandatory documents such as income certificate and SC certificate.

In one such case, Government Senior Secondary School (GSSS), Kurali, and GSSS, Jarout (Mohali), scholarship claim worth Rs 19.90 lakh and Rs 15.15 lakh, respectively, have been found suspicious.

Another senior secondary school in Nabha is under the scanner for a claim of Rs 25 lakh. Similarly, claims of Rs 5 lakh each are being probed against six senior secondary schools in Sangrur district.

Government Polytechnic College for Girls, Patiala, and Government Industrial Training Institute, Ropar, wherein claims of Rs 2.75 crore and Rs 19 lakh, respectively, were sought, are facing a scrutiny too.

A senior officer said on the basis of the audit findings, the department concerned had been asked to cross-check the details before proceedings further. In some cases, the students, who have been shown as dropouts, got enrolled in another institution.

Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, Social Welfare Minister, said the government had already clarified that it would not withhold the scholarship fee for genuine beneficiaries.

In addition to above, institutions under the control of the Directorate of Higher Education, Technical Education Department, State Council for Education Research and Training (SCERT), Animal Husbandry and Directorate of Research and Medical Education (DRME) are also under the scanner.
editorial@tribune.com

Saurabh Malik

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 6

In an out of the ordinary judgment, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has made it clear that a petitioners failure to appear before the Bench after the answering of his prayers could be construed as discourtesy, leading to the imposition of costs.

The Division Bench of Justice Mahesh Grover and Justice Mahabir Singh Sindhu also imposed costs of Rs 2,000 each on two petitioner doctors, after they demonstrated discourtesy by not appearing before the Bench after their prayer for admission was rendered infructuous.

The Bench directed that the costs imposed on Dr Sagar Khera and Dr Rajesh Kapoor were required to be deposited before the Mediation and Conciliation Centre within a month of receiving the orders certified copy.

The two doctors had moved the High Court against the Director General of Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research and another respondent. Both the petitions were brought to a logical conclusion in less than a month after giving short adjournments.

As the case came up for resumed hearing before the Bench, PGIMER counsel Amit Jhanji stated that Dr Khera in the counselling got internal medicine, a stream of his choice. Similarly, Dr Kapoor got paediatrics, again a stream of his choice. Jhanji added that since this was the petitioners claim in both the petitions, their consideration in the counselling and acceptance of the stream had rendered the matter infructuous.

The Bench asserted that there was no representation on behalf of the petitioners to either accept or reject the submission made by the counsel for the respondent. As such, while accepting the statement made by the counsel for the respondent, the petitions were being dismissed as having become infructuous.

But before parting with the order, we notice lack of courtesy by the petitioners in not appearing before this court, the Bench added. Elaborating, the Bench asserted a great urgency was demonstrated during the course of proceedings. Noticing the same, the Bench granted short adjournments and spent considerable time on the matter. But the petitioners absence was discourtesy to the court. We, therefore, impose costs of Rs 2,000 each on the petitioners in both the petitions, the Bench concluded.
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, August 6

A Jagraon man was shot dead by unidentified persons in Abbotsford city of Canada on Saturday night. The deceased has been identified as Gagandeep Singh Dhaliwal (20). His 15-year-old cousin received bullet injuries. The victim is survived by parents and a younger sister.

Sources said the incident took place around 9 pm when Gagandeep was in his car garage along with two relatives. The assailants arrived there and started firing. Two bullets hit Gagandeep. He died on the spot. His cousin, who was shot in the leg, was rushed to a local hospital by family members. He is said to be out of danger.

The victims father, Gurcharan Singh Dhaliwal, is a former president of the Khalsa Diwan Society, Abbotsford. The family, which hails from Agwar Lopon village in Jagraon, had moved to Canada several years ago.
gspannu7@gmail.com

Kulwinder Sandhu

Tribune News Service

Moga, August 7

Dreaded terrorist Jagtar Singh Hawara, a convict in the assassination of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh, was given a clean chit by the district and sessions court in Moga on Tuesday in a 13-year-old case of attempt to murder.

He was produced in the court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Tarsem Mangla at Moga through video conferencing from Delhis Tihar Jail.

A criminal case was registered against him and three others under Sections 307, 353, 323, 186 and 120B of the IPC at the Badhni Kalan police station in Nihalsinghwala sub-division of the Moga district on February 18, 2005.

As per the details available, three of his associates were already acquitted by the court in this case a few years back. This case was reopened against Hawara by the local police a couple of years back.

For the past one year, this case was lingering on for the framing of charges against him. Today also the case was fixed for the framing of charges against him.

But the prosecution could not convince the court to frame charges against him.

Therefore, the additional district and sessions judge did not frame charges against him. Thus, he was absolved of the allegations and acquitted by the court.

It may be mentioned that in 2016, a gathering of the Sarbat Khalsa appointed him as the parallel jathedar of Akal Takht.

The SGPC never accepted this decision of the Sarbat Khalsa. The Shiromani Akali Dal and the SGPC also rejected the gathering as Sarbat Khalsa.

On July 24, 2017, the Moga police formally arrested Hawara after taking permission from the court. However, he was not brought to Moga and was questioned on the jail premises with regard to the attempt to murder case.

On November 21, 2017, the local police first filed the challan against Hawara in this case before judicial magistrate Pankaj Verma but the judge refused to accept it because the alleged accused man was produced in the court before him.

On November 29, 2017, and July 12, 2018, also Jagtar Singh Hawara was produced before the court through video conferencing from the Tihar Jail.

It may be mentioned that Hawara attacked a head constable of the local police, Jasvir Singh, with automatic firearms in 2005 when he stopped a car during a special checking on the outskirts of Lopo village.

Hawara was accompanied by few of his associates when he attacked the cop. He allegedly fired the shots at Jasvir who was seriously injured.
editorial@tribune.com

Tribune News Service

Patiala, August 6

Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Narinder Singh, posted at Sanaur police station, has been suspended for allegedly torturing a group of local youths. One of the victims has been admitted to Government Rajindra Hospital. He alleged that he was beaten up and given poison by the cop.

The youth (name withheld) and his five friends were on their way back home late on Saturday night on two bikes when a police team led by the ASI stopped them at a naka as they were triple-riding. One of the youths pointed out that the ASI was drunk, which led to an altercation.

The ASI started hurling abuse. One of us took out a mobile phone and started recording the conversation. The cop threatened to throw us into the lock-up, the victim said.

He alleged that the ASI, along with two constables, took them in his Alto car to Sanaur police station. There, he and other officials subjected us to humiliation and torture. Our clothes were removed and we were told to grope each other, he added.

The youth alleged that they were kept in illegal confinement in the police station and beaten up when they asked for water.

Parents of two of the youths said a fellow villager told them that cops were seen taking them to a police station. When we reached the police station, the cops refused to let us enter, they alleged.

The police took two of the victims to a hospital in the morning when they complained of breathlessness and severe pain in their private parts. One of them was discharged later. We have suspended the erring ASI, who has been shifted to the Police Lines. I have marked a probe to the SP (City). He has been directed to submit his findings to me in three days, said Patiala SSP Mandeep Singh Sidhu.

A preliminary medical examination showed that there were injuries near the victims private parts.
harinder@tribunemail.com

London, August 6

Hamza bin Laden, the son of the late al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, has married the daughter of Mohammed Atta, the lead hijacker and one of the ringleaders of the September 2001 terror attacks in the US, according to the family.

The marriage was confirmed by Osama bin Ladens half-brothers during an interview with the Guardian. Were not sure where he is, but it could be Afghanistan, the brothers said, adding that they believed Hamza had taken a senior position within the al-Qaida and was aiming to avenge the death of his father.

Hamza is the son of one of Osama bin Ladens three surviving wives, Khairiah Sabar, who was living with her husband in Abbottabad when he was killed.

Western intelligence agencies have been increasingly focusing on Hamzas whereabouts over the past two years.

Another of Bin Ladens sons, Khalid, was killed in the Abbottabad raid. A third, Saad, was killed in a drone strike in Afghanistan in 2009.

Letters purportedly written by Osama bin Laden and seized from the compound suggested he was grooming Hamza to replace him.

The late militant leaders wives and surviving children have returned to Saudi Arabia, where they were given refuge by the former Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef.

The women and children remain in close contact with Osama bin Ladens mother, Alia Ghanem, who told the Guardian in a recent interview that she remained in regular touch with surviving family members.  IANS
harinder@tribunemail.com

Dhaka, August 6

A Bangladesh court on Monday granted former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia six-month interim bail in a 2015 arson case.

A High Court Bench of Justices AKM Asaduzzaman and SM Mujibur Rahman granted the bail following an appeal filed by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chair, reports The Daily Star newspaper. Khaleda however, cannot be released from jail following Mondays order as she is under arrest in some other cases also.

Eight persons were killed and 20 others were injured when unidentified assailants hurled a petrol bomb at the bus in Comillas Chouddagram upazila on February 2, 2015, during protests against the government.

As the BNP chief had been in prison since being sentenced to five years in jail in the Zia Orphanage Trust graft case on February 8, police had promptly shown her arrested.  Agencies
ROBINSINGH@TRIBUNE.COM

Beirut/London, August 7

US President Donald Trump pledged on Tuesday that firms doing business with Tehran would be barred from the United States as new US sanctions against Iran took effect in spite of pleas from Washington's allies.

Iran dismissed a last-minute offer from the Trump administration for talks, saying it could not negotiate while Washington had reneged on a 2015 deal to lift sanctions in return for curbs on Iran's nuclear programme.

Trump decided this year to pull out of the agreement, ignoring pleas from the other world powers that had co-sponsored the deal, including Washington's main European allies Britain, France and Germany, as well as Russia and China.

The European countries have promised to try to mitigate the impact of renewed US sanctions to persuade Tehran to continue to abide by the deal's terms. But that has proven difficult: European companies have pulled out of Iran, arguing that they cannot risk the prospect of damage to their US business.

"These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level. Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the US. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!" Trump tweeted on Tuesday.

White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Monday Iran's only chance of escaping sanctions would be to take up an offer to negotiate with Trump for a tougher deal. "They could take up the President's offer to negotiate with them, to give up their ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs fully and really verifiably," Bolton said.

The sanctions that took effect on Tuesday target Iranian purchases of US dollars, metals trading, coal, industrial software and its auto sector.  Reuters

European companies response

Daimler

German car and truck manufacturer Daimler has dropped plans to expand its Iran business. We have ceased our already restricted activities in Iran in accordance with the sanctions, Daimler said. In 2016, Daimler established a joint venture with vehicle manufacturer and dealer Iran Khodro Co to make and distribute Mercedes-Benz trucks in the country.

PSA and Renault

Peugeot manufacturer PSA began taking steps in June to suspend its joint venture activities in Iran while rival Renault has said it will adhere to the sanctions regime. Both had until August 6 to wind down their operations.

Sanofi

Drugmaker Sanofi said it was premature to say if there will be any impact on its operations in Iran. Sanofi announced in early 2016 that it had signed an MoU with Tehran aimed at bolstering its presence in Iran. Medicines were exempted from the original nuclear sanctions although shipping drugs into the country was difficult.

Nestle

Nestle sees no direct fallout from renewed US sanctions. Nestle Iran has its headquarters in Tehran and two factories: one in Qazvin that produces infant cereals and infant formula, and a bottled water factory in Polour. The company imports a limited range of Nestle products from abroad, it said.
There are armed gang members who are coming up from Chicago basically for the purpose of stealing a car, Copeland explained. With this Land Rover being found with a gun in the car, they werent doing that for nothing. They use the cars to commit crimes. With a weapon in the car it is very logical they were going to do a shooting or had already done a shooting.
Sponsored: Ministry of Planning

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More here
Regulations in Long Grove stipulate that business in the downtown also have to be conducted within enclosed buildings, with the exception of special community events. The new pilot program, which was approved in late July, provides a temporary resolution to the issues and allows for food trucks from outside of Long Grove to travel into the village and sit outside the brewery, Marr said.
While our fellow retirees are heading to Florida for the winter, we are considering a Great Railway Tour of Switzerland in January. Quite the opposite strategy than most New Englanders but we wanted to see the Alps with snow and in its grandeur. But I want to avoid a big mistake if it is just too cold or the weather is too aggressive. The train seems like a somewhat risk-free form of travel and the Glacier Express Tour looks like just what we are looking for. Any experiences out there with these tours or The Alps in winter? Thank you.
In 2019 we are travelling to Australia and having stop offs on the outward and inward journeys.

Each airline has its own allowances. We have one internal Virgin Australia flight between Sydney and Melbourne. I can see that Virgin Australia operate a strange system whereby; not only do they restrict weight, as normal, they also operate a maximum cumulative linear dimension of 140 Cm for hold baggage (our brand new cases' cumulative linear dimensions are 160 Cm and 158 Cm) and 105 Cm for cabin luggage (our existing cabin bags' cumulative linear dimensions are 113 Cm and 104 Cm)

Bearing in mind that we have already bought our new cases and have existing cabin bags for this trip, the Virgin Australia flights baggage allowance is very poor and this is because it is an internal flight. IE they don't cater for trans-global travellers, visiting Australia.

I called VA and they are unsympathetic and say just take another large case and pay 70 AUSD per case. if you go over the 23Kg hold case weight it also costs 70 AUSD

My question to seasoned travellers is; in your experiences "do they ever actually MEASURE overall cumulative linear dimensions" and you are OK as long as you are within weight limits?

I cannot envisage people at check in measuring cumulative dimensions of HxDxL and adding them together
There will be MANY restaurants with a traditional Thanksgiving meal - roast turkey with all the trimmings. But we have no idea of your budget or number of people or location. If you look at opentable.com about 30 days in advance you will find a list of restaurants serving meals like this and can search by budget, location, menu or seatings available (many places have set seatings at 2 hour intervals).

Remember that alcohol may cost a lot more than you are used to spending and all prepared foods are taxed at 9% and the usual tip for wait staff and bartenders is 20%, so the total cost of the meal will be 30% more than listed on the menu. Be prepared that for aholidaymeal they may ask you for your credit card to pay in advance or to take a penalty if you are no shows.
Mentioning back problems be aware that the road connecting Puerto Jimenez and Cabo Matapalo/Carate is a rough and heavily potholed one.

Rivers were easy to cross even last week with unusuall heavy rainfall, they should be even easier to cross in December. But always check the depth, and best is to wait for another vehicle to pass it before.

Personally I would stay somewhere around Cabo Matapalo area. The wildlife is a s good as insid Corcovado, if not better. The beaches are much nicer then in Carate area. And you willavoid long drivingon bad road. Puerto Jimenez is another option, more choices of affordable room there.

The one day hike will get you inside the boundaries of Corcovado NP, past La Leona entrance and up to Rio Madrigal. Good if you like walking but nothing much else towrite home about ... if not being very lucky by crossing path with a puma.

Manuel Antonio NP is crowded in slow days, so I would surely skipped it. If into wildlife, or go visit Carara NP or stay at Hacinda Baru thus getting access to their trails.

San Gerado d Dota is a great place. There are new cabins opposite of Miriam soda, opened recently, worth to check them out for the price. At Savegre Lodge they have built a garden with two covered birding platforms, do visit them. And in between there is a small local platform called Mirador Quetzales (not to be mixed with the lodge of same name), where chances of seeing a quetzal are really good, and the entrancee fee is only 2 usd.

As above, you have planned a good itinerary, you will enjoy it.
Insurance always caters to your worst fears. Nobody can make the decision for you about how much insurance cover you need to have. It is entirely up to your own comfort level. Some people insure themselves against any and all circumstances, others only carry the legally required minimums.

That said, there are two things you should consider:

1.) Cars are expensive in CR but even if you were to hit two Porsche while driving (aside from wrecking a Porsche dealership, chances would be akin to winning a jackpot in a state lottery), your $200,000 would still suffice. You could hit and kill an entire herd of cows or plow into a few houses as well.

2.) Your persistent questioning really suggests that you are truly worried - I don't recall if anyone else has ever expressed your particular concern. Thus, you should definitely opt for the higher coverage so that you have peace of mind. It's hard to enjoy your vacation if you are constantly worried that you might not be covered in case of an accident.
Hello Guys,

I am planning to travel to South Vietnam with family , for 8 Night in Jan 2019. I got 2 boys 6 & 11 Yrs old.

I need some tips/help in planning out itinerary

 After reading few post, we have decided to go to South only  Mainly due to fact that we got only 8 night and hoping that South Vietnam has lots of things to do for a Young Family .

 We would like to relax few days at the Beach ( Preferably somewhere with Water activity to keep kids occupied )

 We would also like to explore the Vietnamese Culture

 Thinking this in mind, we have come up with below Draft Itinerary

2-3 Night in HCMC

2 Night at Mekong Delta Or Da Lat

3-4 Night either at Mui Ne Or Phu Quoc Or any other Beach Area

Appreciate if you can let us know your thought on

- Which is the best Beach in Vietnam to relax - Mui Ne Or Phu Quoc ?

- Which one is better Mekong Delta Or Da Lat

Thanks

Arif
If your daughter is a fan of Studio Ghibli flims she might enjoy the Ghibli museum. Getting tickets can be tricky for non-Japanese speakers, but it is possible. Start looking now as they sell out quickly.

You daughter might also enjoy a Sumo match. They are an amazing combination of ancient ritual and the absolutely bonkers.

I don't take escorted tours and I usually organise all the details of my own trips but my trips to Japan are "tailored trips" with the details organised by a company called Inside Japan. They are an English company with additional offices in the US, Australia and Japan.

Normally for a trip just to Tokyo and Kyoto it would not be worth getting a company involved but travelling with a 13 year old, you might benefit from a day of private guiding in Tokyo and one in Kyoto (I felt a bit guilty as my guide wore a kimono and gettas but hiked with me up to see the macaques in Arashyama) as well as for booking some add-ons like the Ghibli Museum, sumo and/or a taiko drumming or origami lesson.

It depends on your 13 year old but often older children would rather do things than look at sights.

(Although Nijo castle combines both in that it is a wonderful sight but also has nightingale floors which make bird sounds when walked upon so no one could sneak up on the resident lord)

When you are agreed on budget, itinerary and things you want to do, Inside Japan books your hotels and sorts out your transport and tickets.

I think they generally save me money as they are very good at knowing when scrimping will not detract from my trip and when a splurge is utterly memorable.

If a capsule hotel is on your daughter's wish list, while most would be deeply unsuitable for a young teenager, the shiny new 9 Hours capsule hotel in Kyoto is a very different experience. The men and women are on different floors (the lift key only works on the floor for the right gender) and the atmosphere is more like a university changing room and dorm than a place for drunken salarymen to sleep off the evening's drinking.

You would need to check if they would take a 13 year old travelling with her mother.

I found it interesting and surprisingly comfortable for one night.

I then moved to a comfortable business hotel for the rest of my Kyoto stay but one night would certainly be a talking point for your daughter's friends.

If you haven't booked your flights yet, I strongly agree about flying into Tokyo and out of Osaka,

Further, I would recommend flying into Haneda Airport and taking the monorail into Tokyo simply for trying a method of transport your daughter would otherwise only have seen at Disneyland. (On the other hand, Narita is huge, shiny and very Japanese in its efficiency)

Thirteen is a great age for a mother/daughter trip. I have very fond memories of the trips I took with my daughter when she was around that age.

Edited: 3 years ago
- Supporters of Fafi MP Abdikarim Osman had clashed with those of National Director of Basic Education Habat Sheikh

- Osman had opposed the naming of Sheikh as the guest of honour at Fafi Girls' School during a prize giving day

- Police had to intervene and shoot in the air to disperse the two rowdy groups

A section of leaders from Garissa county led by National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale have condemned the violence that rocked Fafi Girls School.

The Garissa legislators criticised Fafi MP Abdikarim Osman for triggering the fracas at the institution.

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READ ALSO: Police use teargas against KNH protesting workers

A section of leaders from Garissa county led by National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale have condemned the violence that rocked Fafi girls school. Photo: KNA

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Safaricom boss Bob Collymore back after 9 months of treatment

According to KNA, Duale, Sophia Abdinoor (Ijara), Omar Shurie (Balambala) and Women representative Annab Gure termed the incident as unfortunate.

They said such incidents only set a bad example to the young generation and more so when the county is grappling with schools unrest.

Leaders said such incidents only act to set a bad example to the young generation and more so when the county is grappling with schools unrest. Photo: KNA.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Raila ally Silas Jakakimba wanted in Zimbabwe over poll violence

The Garissa Township MP urged leaders to restrain themselves when provoked in public and unnecessary drama.

These young children look up to us as their role models. When we resort to fighting and name calling in their presence, then we are only setting a bad example, Duale said.

He said no amount of provocation can be justified for a leader to misbehave in public.

READ ALSO: Wanaume 11 walioandikisha historia duniani kwa kuwa na watoto wengi zaidi

On Tuesday, July 21, a prize giving day at Fafi Girls'ended abruptly after chaos erupted when Osman demanded that the programme be changed to make him the guest of honour.

The chief guest was to be National Director of Basic Education Habat Sheikh.

Police were forced to shoot in the air to disperse rowdy supporters of the MP and those of Sheikh after the clash turned violent.

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.

Raila Odinga Is a Project Employed Under Uhuru Kenyatta - Nazlin Umar | Tuko TV

Source: Tuko News
I know Napervilles strength and vibrancy come from committed city leaders who understand and balance the needs of both our residents and the business community, Hanson said in the release. I am a local business owner, 18-year resident and father of freshman twins at Naperville North High School. I have a strong sense of what it takes to lead in this capacity and I look forward to serving on city council."
- John Mbadi argued neither ODM nor Raila Odinga had the machinery to interfere with another country's election

- He accused Zimbabwe's electoral body of causing anxiety among citizens by being less transparent

- Mbadi also accused Zimbabwe's ruling party of allowing the electoral body to doctor election results

- Zimbabwe's authorities accused Raila's ally of fueling the post-election violence in Zimbabwe which left six people dead

Following claims an affiliate of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is being sought after by Zimbabwe authorities for fueling post-election violence, the party's national chairman John Mbadi has refuted the claims.

Fighting claims the party had a role in the violence that saw six people dead in Harare, Mbadi said ODM and its party leader Raila Odinga did not have the machinery to interfere with elections in another country.

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READ ALSO: Emmerson Mnangagwa declared president elect of Zimbabwe

Mbadi said ODM and its party leader did not have the machinery to interfere with elections in another country.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Zimbabwe Opposition leader rejects election results as country plunges into political tension

Raila did not run the elections in Zimbabwe. The elections body is responsible for causing unnecessary anxiety by delaying results and being less transparent, Mbadi was quoted by the Daily Nation on Monday, August 6.

The ODM chairman said the ruling Zanu-PF should have accepted a transparent electoral process and should have refrained from what is now becoming the normal way of life in Africa; the fixing of electoral outcomes by incumbents.

Mbadi spoke after Zimbabwe's newspaper, The Herald, on Monday, August 6, accused Raila of being a bad mentor to the Southern Africa's main Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa.

READ ALSO: Raila ally Silas Jakakimba wanted in Zimbabwe over poll violence

Silas Jakakimba, was under the radar of Zimbabwe police following chaos that rocked Harare

Source: UGC

We expected Chamisa to be a democrat by conceding defeat. That way, he would have earned himself respect, but he seems to prefer the rogue route of Kenyas Raila Odinga. What a choice for a political mentor, especially for one so young!, the paper said.

On Sunday, August 5, an aide of the former prime minister, Silas Jakakimba, was under the radar of Zimbabwe police following chaos that rocked Harare on August 1.

READ ALSO: Violence breaks out in Zimbabwe as Mugabes choice for president cries foul

Prior reports by TUKO.co.ke indicated Jakakimba dismissed the claims that he was a strategist for the MDC Alliance or its presidential candidate while noting he was in Harare for three days and left before violence broke out in the city.

He explained he had visited the country to convey Raila's goodwill message to the MDC Alliance at its public rally at the Freedom Square in Harare.

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.

Gikomba's Biggest Fire Destroys Property Worth Millions of Shillings - On Tuko TV

Source: Tuko.co.ke
- Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has been numerously accused of engaging in violent politics

- Waititu's aides allegedly beat Wambui wa Githurai who had gone to serve a court order barring county government from demolishing her business premises

- The incident ignited social media rage with residents threatening to oust his administration

A woman determined to legally protect her business premises from being demolished by Kiambu county government met the wrath of angry aides of Governor Ferdinand Waititu leaving her with injuries.

For Wambui Wa Githurai, Monday, August 6, was a day to forget after she was thoroughly beaten by alleged Waititu's security men when she went to the governor's office to serve a court order barring the demolition of her business.

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READ ALSO: Kutana na mwanamke Mkenya aliyekiri kushiriki ngono na wanaume 5,000

Wambui wa Githurai had gone to Governor Ferdinand Waititu to present a court order barring the county administration from demolishing her business premises. Photo: Isaac Kinyanjui/Facebook.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: William Ruto threatens to whip fighting Kiambu leaders if they fail to unite

According to sources privy to the incident and photos captured during the Tuesday, August 6, morning, a scuffle ensued when Wambui insisted she needed to furnish the county chief with the court order against the resistance by the governor's aides.

"Lady from Kiambu county, Wambui Wa Githurai went to the governor's office to personally serve him with a court order restraining his goons from vandalising her premises and carting away her merchandise. Its apparent Kiambu people were duped into electing a goon. To attack our women in public offices is unacceptable, despicable and an affront to our dignity as a royal county," said Isaac Kinyanjui, a resident.

Wambui Wa Githurai was allegedly beaten by Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu's security guards. Photo: Isaac Kinyanjui/Facebook.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Kanze Dena dismisses speculations of looming Cabinet reshuffle

The incident ignited social media rage with residents of Kiambu and Kenyans condemning Waititu's administration for perpetrating violence against women.

The county government is yet to respond to the claims.

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.

Gikomba's Biggest Fire Destroys Property Worth Millions of Shillings - On Tuko TV

Source: Tuko Kenya
- Chamisa says he is ready to be sworn in as Zimbabwe's new president

- He said his party has evidence of mass rigging in favour of incumbent Emmerson Mnangangwa

- The election was Zimbabwe's first since President Robert Mugabe left office in 2017 after a military intervention

Zimbabwe stares at an uncertain political future afte the Opposition leader declared he won the election but victory was awarded to the incumbent by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).

According to the Movement of Democratic Change (MDC) alliance leader, Nelson Chamisa, the party had a re-compilation of the forms V11 which contain the election results from across the country revealing the party had won.

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READ ALSO: Kutana na mwanamke Mkenya aliyekiri kushiriki ngono na wanaume 5,000

The opposition leader insisted he would be inaugurated as the next president of Zimbabwe.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Violence breaks out in Zimbabwe as Mugabes choice for president cries foul

In a tweet post seen by TUKO.co.ke on Tuesday, August 7, Chamisa said the forms revealed ZEC had inflated the results to favour ZANU- PF party leader Emmerson Mnangangwa

"I have just finished going through the evidence per our agents and Form V11 from across Zimbabwe. We won this election emphatically. ZECs figures are falsified and inflated in favour of the outgoing president," said Chamisa.

The Opposition leader insisted he would be inaugurated as the next president of Zimbabwe after Mugabe who served the country for close to four decades.

"We are ready for the inauguration and formation of the next government, God is in it," he added.

READ ALSO: Emmerson Mnangagwa declared president elect of Zimbabwe

Mnangagwa, a former ally of Robert Mugabe, hailed his victory as a new beginning for Zimbabwe.

Source: Twitter

On Friday, August 3, Chamisa dismissed the presidential results terming them "unverified fake results" while accusing the country's electoral body of creating a scandal by announcing Mnangangwa winner.

He further accused the electoral body of denying his election agents access to the results before the announcement that Mnangagwa had won by a narrow margin of 50.8%.

The MDC chairperson Morgan Komichi, had also described the results as bogus and alleged the figures had been inflated.

READ ALSO: Zimbabwe Opposition leader rejects election results as country plunges into political tension

Violence broke out on Wednesday, August 1, after Chamisa claimed election was rigged in favour of Mnangagwa.

Source: UGC

Prior reports by TUKO.co.ke indicated Paul Mangwana, spokesperson for ZANU-PF, dared the Opposition to go to court adding the ruling party was ready to face them there.

The announcement saw violence break out on Wednesday, August 1, after Chamisa claimed the election was rigged in favour of the incumbent.

READ ALSO: ODM battles claims it fueled post-election violence in Zimbabwe

The poll was Zimbabwe's first election since President Robert Mugabe left office in 2017 after a military intervention.

Mnangagwa, a former ally of Mugabe, hailed his victory as a new beginning for the Southern Africa country.

Six people lost their lives during demonstrations against the alleged electoral fraud.

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.

Gikomba's Biggest Fire Destroys Property Worth Millions of Shillings - On Tuko TV

Source: Tuko
- ODM party distanced itself from Jakakimba regarding the Zimbabwe poll

- Zimbabwe authorities on Monday, August 6, alerted the public to inform them of Jakakimba's whereabouts

- The youthful politician was wanted for allegedly having links to the Harare violence that claimed six lives

- ODM, through a statement, denied sending Jakikamba on a 'mission'

The Orange Democratic Party has distanced itself from youthful Kenyan politician Silas Jakakimbas who is on the Zimbawean authorities' radar for violence in Harare

Through a statement seen by TUKO.co.ke, ODM made it clear they did not send Jakakimba to Zimbabwe and the politician had traveled there on his own volition.

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READ ALSO: Kutana na mwanamke Mkenya aliyekiri kushiriki ngono na wanaume 5,000

"ODM Executive Director Oduor Ongwen has clarified that the party did not send Mr. Silas Jakimba to Harare on any mission in the just concluded General Election which saw the incumbent Emerson Mnangagwa declared winner in the hotly contested Presidential election," the statement read.

READ ALSO: Violence breaks out in Zimbabwe as Mugabes choice for president cries foul

Jakakimba was on the spot on Saturday, August 4, over the violence in Zimbabwe since Wednesday that has seen the death of at least six people.

Reports claimed the ex-Raila Odinga aide had a hand in the unrest by Zimbabwe's opposition supporters who were aggrieved about their candidate Nelson Chamisa of the MDC Alliance losing out to Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa of the Zanu PF Party.

Jakakimba was on the spot for allegedly instigating mayhem in Zimbabwe's capital

Source: UGC

READ ALSO: Violence breaks out in Zimbabwe as Mugabes choice for president cries foul

According to media reports from Harare, seen by TUKO.co.ke, police requested for members of the public to contact them if they have any information on his whereabouts.

In response to ODM's statement, Jakakimba was quick to once again attempt to clear his name of the damaging allegations against him.

"Whoever is posting these kinds of nonsense on the ODM Party's handle is a complete neanderthal. You should go back to school!" he tweeted.

READ ALSO: Uhuru ends long Mombasa tour amid Cabinet reshuffle reports

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

Cecilia Mwangi Story: Meet 78-Year-0ld Sound System Master At Faces of Kenya | Tuko TV:

Source: Tuko Kenya
- The Majority Leader had plotted to frustrate the former SRC chair for being tough on MPs on salaries

- Kalenjin leaders warned Duale against going ahead with his plan terming it irresponsible

- MPs approved Serem for appointment alongside eight others against Duales wish

- She is set to be Kenyas ambassador to China once appointed

Parliament on Tuesday, August 7, gave a nod to Sarah Serem's ambassadorial appointment to China despite earlier protests by a section of MPs to shoot down her nomination.

Majority Leader in the National Assembly Aden Duale had threatened to frustrate Serem's nomination on grounds she blocked lawmakers' demand for huge perks during her tenure as the Salaries and Renumeration Commission chairperson.

READ ALSO: Kutana na mwanamke Mkenya aliyekiri kushiriki ngono na wanaume 5,000

Aden Duale had threatened to frustrate Serem's nomination on grounds she blocked lawmakers' demand for huge perks. Photo: Nation.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Uhuru effects mini cabinet reshuffle, names more ambassadors

"Those who were in the 11th and 12th Parliament, you know how much we have been reduced as leaders in this country. You know what we went through.And God is great we have another opportuity, Serem did no know she would be nominated for a position that needs vetting," Duale told MPs.

But in a petition to National Assembly Committee on Powers and Privileges, MPs from Rift Valley, Serem's home, said the Garissa Town MP was using parliamentary privileges to settle a political agenda.

Serem was approved alongside eight other nominees to various countries as ambassadors and high commissioners;

1. Lt. Gen Samuel Thuita

2. Former Head of Directorate of Criminal Investigation Francis Ndegwa Muhoro

3. Former Kasipul Kabondo parliamentary aspirant Paddy Ahenda

4. Amb Peter Nicholas Oginga Ogego

5. Johnson Mogo Ondieki

6. Chris Karumba Mburu

7. Former Ainamoi MP Benjamin Langat

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.

Catherine Njeri: I've Slept With Over 100 Men, Tried Taking Away Myself 5 Times | Tuko TV

Source: Tuko
- Rotich is facing pressure from MPs over his responsibility in illegal sugar importation

- The CS is also accused of allowing irregular payment of KSh 1.5 billion for a controversial parcel of land in Ruaraka

- Kimilili MP Didymus Barasa presented a motion seeking to impeach the CS over his role in the two scandals

- 96 MPs have signed the motion and it requires only 24 endorsements for it to be tabled and debated in the National Assembly

Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich is a worried man after 96 members of the National Assembly supported a motion to impeach him from the powerful government docket.

Kimilili MP Didymus Barasa moved a motion seeking for Rotichs ouster over alleged misuse of public funds and abuse of office and already 96 MPs had appended their signatures to endorse the move.

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READ ALSO: Kutana na mwanamke Mkenya aliyekiri kushiriki ngono na wanaume 5,000

Kimilili MP Didymus Barasa is moving a motion to impeach Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich which 96 MPs have already signed in approval. Photo: The Star.

Source: UGC

READ ALSO: MPs reject report on illegal sugar, accuse House committee of shielding powerful CS

Barasa argued in his petition that Rotich was culpable of haphazard importation of illegal and toxic sugar, and irregular payment of KSh 1.5 billion for the scandalous Ruaraka land.

My efforts to impeach Rotich is supported by facts and reports by MPs who burnt midnight oil to execute their oversight role. It is clear and in public domain that Henry Rotich is to blame for the illegal sugar in the country and payment of the non-existent land in Ruaraka using money which was not budgeted for, said Barasa.

With 96 members having backed him, the legislator indicated it only needed 24 more signatures for the motion to be tabled in the legislative House.

Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich is facing accusations of orchestrating illegal importation of substandard sugar and purchase of controversial Ruaraka land. Photo: Henry Rotich/Facebook.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Duale's threats to teach Serem lesson flops as MPs approve her nomination as envoy

The move which seems to be pushing Rotich to edge comes a few days after MPs who sat in the joint Trade and Agriculture Committee to probe the uncontrolled entry of illegal sugar differed over the report which was tabled in the Assembly on Wednesday, August 1.

Dagoretti North MP Simba Arati and his Moiben counterpart Silas Tiren were among legislators who rejected the report on Thursday, August 2, saying it had been altered to omit names of Rotich, former industrialisation CS Aden Mohammed and his Agriculture counterpart CS Willy Bett.

Treasury CS Henry Rotich and his Interior counterpart Fred Matiang'i were all probed over the illegal sugar importation and Ruaraka land saga. Photo: Henry Rotich/Facebook.

Source: Facebook

READ ALSO: Mudavadi shows interest to work with Uhuru days after Kalonzo embraced Jubilee

Rotich was accused of issuing irregular gazette notices between September and October 2017 which did not indicate the limit of sugar to be imported resulting to the influx of the substandard commodity.

If Barasas motion sails through Parliament, the National Assembly would be required to establish an 11-member committee to investigate the information within 10 days after which MPs would vote to oust or save Rotich.

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.

Catherine Njeri: I've Slept With Over 100 Men, Tried Taking Away Myself 5 Times | Tuko TV

Source: Tuko Kenya
It appears [McKenzie and Sweeney] decided gamesmanship of the Illinois law, which allows either the supervisor or two trustees to call a special meeting, and exclude [the] presence [of the two voting members and township clerk] by demanding [that] a meeting this Monday was more important than the real transparency of waiting two days to allow everyone involved to be part of the discussion, questions, and input, thus safeguarding everyones right to be heard, Morask said.
The race is on to get more women involved in cycling. That's the word coming from President 
The second stage of the Export Revolution Ukraine educational program for Ukrainian entrepreneurs will start in October.

Deputy Minister of Economic Development - Trade Representative of Ukraine Natalia Mykolska wrote this on Twitter.

"The second stage of the Export Revolution educational program for Ukrainian entrepreneurs will begin in October. It will last for nine months and will consist of two courses: START and PRO," Mykolska noted.

According to her, applications for participation are accepted until September 30.

Export Revolution Ukraine is a national comprehensive educational program for Ukrainian entrepreneurs seeking to start exporting, as well as for experts who are ready to systematize and deepen their knowledge and professional skills in exports.

The program has been developed taking into account the needs of companies, specifics of the Ukrainian legislation and conditions of domestic and foreign markets. It combines online training and live seminars with leading international experts, consideration of specific cases of participating companies and ends with a study trip to Estonia.

iy
It was what we grew up doing, Greve said. And to have the kids get away from electronics, to not play video games, just to come out and do an old-fashioned activity of flying a kite, is pretty cool.
The Austrian Wind Energy Company O.W. WIND.KG and the Kherson Regional State Administration signed a memorandum of cooperation in the implementation of projects for the construction of wind power plants in Kherson region.

"On August 7, the Kherson Regional State Administration and the Austrian Wind Energy Company O.W. WIND.KG signed a memorandum of cooperation. The document provides for cooperation in the field of implementation of projects for the construction of wind farms in Holoprystansky district in Kherson region," the press service of the Kherson Regional State Administration reported on Tuesday.

The deputy chairman of the Kherson Regional State Administration Andriy Balon notes that "the authorities will contribute to this company as much as possible," as it is engaged in the production of electricity from alternative sources.

ish
Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics has said that Ukraine and Georgia are now struggling for the independence and security of Europe, so they should become full members of NATO, Polish Radio has reported.

"What happened in Georgia in 2008, and then in Ukraine, convinces us that we have to do everything to prevent this from happening again," he said.

He also said that international law and order were violated in Georgia ten years ago and it is necessary to remind the world about it. In addition, in connection with Russian aggression against Georgia, the European Union then made a "big mistake."

"It is very important that we remind the world about what happened ten years ago, because international law and order were violated," Rinkevics said.

The minister also emphasized that Latvia, Lithuania and Poland want Georgia and Ukraine to become NATO members.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius, in turn, said that solidarity is needed "due to the lessons that have not been learned." He added that, unfortunately, the war in Georgia in 2008 "did not shake the world."

"Therefore, we want to remind them of what happened. We have to support the fundamental position that the aggressor must fulfill its international obligations," he said.

The Lithuanian diplomat also recalled that Russia is occupying Crimea. "Solidarity is needed. We must show our support in the Eastern Partnership," he said.

"We also want to remind that what happened in Georgia, when 20% of the territory was occupied, should not be repeated, because we are sometimes too weak with our reaction," he added.

op
Ukraine reaffirms once again its resolute support for Georgia's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity in its internationally recognized borders.

The Foreign Ministry of Ukraine released a relevant statement on the occasion of the tenth anniversary since the beginning of the direct armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Georgia.

Ukraine reaffirms once again its consistent and resolute support for Georgia's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity in its internationally recognized borders, as well as its commitment to the strategic partnership between our states. In particular, Ukraine supports the latest peace initiative of the Government of Georgia A Step to a Better Future aimed at settling the conflict and reconciliation, reads the statement.

The Foreign Ministry also called on the Russian Federation to fulfill its obligations under the Ceasefire Agreement as of the August 12, 2008 and to withdraw its troops from the occupied territories of Georgia (Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region) and take other necessary steps to demilitarize and de-occupy these territories.

According to the statement, the Russian Federation bears full responsibility for the precarious humanitarian situation in the occupied territories and shall provide unhindered access to international humanitarian and human rights organizations to these territories.

Ukraine appeals to the mediators of the Geneva International Discussions  the EU, the OSCE, the United Nations and the United States and the entire international community to continue to make efforts to resolve the Russian-Georgian conflict, reads the statement.

iy
The international mechanisms of influence, including sanctions against Russia, should be strengthened until Moscow stops aggression against the neighboring countries and its attempts to undermine the international law and the world order.

The international community should combine diplomatic tools with much stronger targeted sanctions and isolation of Russian political leaders and oligarchs. After all, we all know that it is only the language of strength that Russia understands, Deputy Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the UN Yuri Vitrenko said during the roundtable dedicated to the 10th anniversary of start of Russia-Georgia war, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

He also urged UN to be more involved in contributing to the resolution of conflicts initiated by Russian in Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova and other places.

Despite the existence of relevant mechanisms like Geneva International Discussions, Normandy Format or Trilateral Contact Group, the UN Security Council and General Assembly should take a much stronger position on the conflicts and increase their pressure on Russia, the Ukrainian diplomat stressed.

But what is even more crucial, he added, is for the international community to be consistent and consolidated in the face of Russias occupation and annexation policy to ensure peaceful conflict resolution and prevention of similar conflicts in the region and around the globe.

The first step should be de-occupation of the Georgian and Ukrainian territories, reversal of recognition of the so-called independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and implementation of all other obligations of Russia under existing agreements, the Deputy Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the UN underscored.

Vitrenko also reminded that the Russian Federation as an occupying power had relevant obligations under the international law towards the population of Crimea, Donbas, Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

It [Russia] is fully responsible for the consequences of its internationally wrongful acts and will pay for the harm caused, the diplomat stressed.

ol
The Justice Ministries of Ukraine and Argentina have signed three intergovernmental agreements in the field of criminal justice.

The press service of the Ukrainian Embassy in Argentina reported this following the talks held on August 6 between the Ukrainian official delegation headed by Justice Minister Pavlo Petrenko and Minister of Justice and Human Rights of Argentina German Garavano.

"The talks ended with the signing of three interstate agreements in the field of criminal justice. Justice Ministers of the two countries, Pavlo Petrenko and German Garavano, signed the Agreement on the Transfer of Convicted Persons. Also, the head of the Ukrainian delegation and Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship, Secretary of State of Argentina Daniel Raimondi signed the Agreement on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters and the Agreement on Rendition of Offenders, reads the report. .

During the meeting, the parties discussed the current situation in both countries, as well as prospects for further development of cooperation between the Justice Ministries of Ukraine and Argentina.

In addition, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister outlined the changes introduced in the Ukrainian legislation in the field of appointment and dismissal of judges, and noted the progress made in developing the system of free legal aid to vulnerable groups of the population.

iy
Next week, Ukraine will file a lawsuit with the European Court of Human Rights against Russia over Ukrainian political prisoners.

"Next week we will file an interstate lawsuit against the Russian Federation over all our political prisoners. Russia deliberately persecutes people for their support for the territorial integrity of Ukraine, for their pro-Ukrainian views, by abducting them in Crimea or in the territory of the Russian Federation," Ukrainian Deputy Justice Minister Serhiy Petukhov said on the air of Channel 5.

In his opinion, this lawsuit with the ECHR will draw Kremlins attention to the political prisoners and will also provide an opportunity for releasing them by the courts ruling.

"Often there is absolutely no reason to convict these people: they can be journalists or activists who are accused of terrorism or some other stuff. By submitting this suit to the European Court of Human Rights, we will draw attention to the large category of persons. Usually people know the surnames of Sentsov, Kolchenko, Sushchenko, maybe few more, but there are several dozens of such people, and the attention of the ECHR will at least ensure they are kept in human conditions," Petukhov said.

As reported, nearly 70 Ukrainian political prisoners are being held in Russia and the annexed Crimea.

ol
The law enforcement agencies of Greece and Italy have arrested and are conducting investigation against 250 Ukrainian sailors, mainly for the transportation of illegal migrants.

State Secretary of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry Andriy Zayats said this at a briefing on the protection of the rights of Ukrainians who were imprisoned, detained or arrested abroad, the press service of the Foreign Ministry reported.

"According to the law enforcement agencies of Greece and Italy, about 250 Ukrainian sailors are under investigation or serving a sentence, mainly for the transportation of illegal migrants," Zayats said.

At the same time, he said that in the last month the Ukrainian consuls returned home 33 sailors, who were in difficulty abroad for a long time.

He called the detention or conviction of Ukrainian citizens for the transportation of illegal migrants or smuggled cargo as one of the sensitive and resonant issues.

In this context, the State Secretary of the Foreign Ministry once again called upon the citizens of Ukraine to observe the basic rules, in particular the requirements of local legislation, and not to accept illegal job offers abroad.

As reported, as of June 30, over 10,000 Ukrainian citizens were arrested or convicted for different types of crimes in different countries of the world.

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has demanded that Russia free Ukrainian political prisoners Volodymyr Balukh and Oleg Sentsov, whose prolonged hunger strike poses a threat to their lives, the ministry's spokeswoman, Mariana Betsa, has said on Twitter.

"142 [days]... 86 [days]... Human lives are behind the figures. The hunger strike of Balukh and Sentsov is continuing. We demand that Russia release them," Betsa wrote.

As reported, Russia's FSB detained Balukh on December 8, 2016. FSB employees claimed that they found 90 cartridges and several TNT smoke grenades in the attic of his house. A "court" in Crimea found Balukh guilty of storing ammunition and sentenced him to three years and five months of imprisonment in a settlement colony, as well as awarded a fine of 10,000 rubles Balukh's defense team and human rights defenders said that he is a victim of repression for his pro-Ukrainian position - due to Ukraine's flag in the courtyard of his house. Balukh went on a hunger strike on March 19, 2018.

Film director Oleg Sentsov was detained in occupied Crimea on May 10, 2014. Russia charged him with preparing terrorist attacks and sentenced him to 20 years in prison. On May 14, the filmmaker declared an indefinite hunger strike demanding the release of all Ukrainian political prisoners.

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Foreigners committed about 1,400 crimes in Ukraine in 2018, First Deputy Head of the National Police of Ukraine Viacheslav Abroskin has said.

"In 2018 alone, foreigners committed about 1,400 crimes. Therefore, the main focus of our work as part of the Prevention Program Migrant is to identify individuals who have an impact on the criminal situation and commit crimes. They need to be detained or expelled from the country," the Interior Ministry's press service quoted him as saying.

Abroskin also ordered the criminal police department to detect and document organized criminal groups that were formed on ethnic grounds and influence criminal processes in the region, including thieves in law and crime lords.

Head of the Department for Combatting Crimes Related to Human Trafficking Artem Kryshchenko, in turn, stressed that information about 61 crimes committed by foreigners had been included in the single register of pre-trial investigations since the beginning of the operation titled "Migrant."

"Foreigners were declared suspects in 30 criminal proceedings. The pre-trial investigation was completed in six criminal proceedings. Four foreigners who were hiding from law enforcement agencies were found," Kryshchenko said.

First Deputy Head of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine Vasyl Servatiuk stressed that border guards were actively involved in Operation Migrant, which began on July 26 and will last until August 31, 2018.

"Sixty-nine illegal migrants were detained during the first week of the operation, and 180 more potential migrants were denied entry [to Ukraine]. Almost 2,000 illegal migrants have been detained since the beginning of the year," he said.

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Since August 6, Poroshenko has been at work in Kyiv.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has spent past week in the European Union, going on a private trip.

"From July 29 to August 5, 2018, President Petro Poroshenko was on a private trip to the European Union for a series of meetings," the Presidential Administration responded to an inquiry of the Ukrayinska Pravda news outlet.

The press service added that Poroshenko had paid for this trip from his own account. "Under Part 1 of Article 25 of the Law on the Prevention and Counteraction to the Legalization (Laundering) of Proceeds from Crime, Financing of Terrorism and Financing the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction," not a single penny from the state budget was spent on this trip, and all expenses were paid from Petro Poroshenko's own account," the source said.

Read alsoPoroshenko: Autocephaly of UOC to complete consolidation of Ukraine's independence

In addition, the presidential press service said that reports about the president's stay in Spain over the period or about a meeting with famous Ukrainians do not correspond to reality. At the same time in the Ukrayinska Pravda's request listed questions about the purposes of the private trip, where Poroshenko went to and where he is now and what he is doing. Later, the presidential press service added in comments for the online publication that since August 6, Poroshenko has been at his workplace in Kyiv. The remaining questions were left unanswered.
We are not just putting them in a classroom and having them play with toys all day, she said. We are making sure we are educating them at the same time.
In the international context and in that of Ukraine's foreign policy, the post of a minister for the development of Transcarpathian region should be seen as an encroachment by Budapest on Ukraine's sovereignty.

Hungary weakened its foreign policy position when at the level of the EU and NATO it initiated a number of anti-Ukrainian decisions and blocked its neighbor's European and Euro-Atlantic integration. Until now, Hungary has appealed to Ukraine's internal issues, for example, "restricting the rights" of the Hungarian national minority. But Budapest's decision to establish a new ministerial post demonstrated that the issue of the Hungarian minority in Ukraine is in fact an issue of Hungary's foreign policy and territorial encroachment on Ukraine.

Of course, the Hungarian leaders will deny this. But Ukrainian diplomatic corps must remain vigilant in order to avoid repeating the same scenario that was imposed on Crimea and Donbas. We already know how such interventions might end up. It is high time to draw the attention of our foreign partners to this clearly unfriendly step of a neighboring state and thus seize from Hungary the initiative in the ongoing diplomatic conflict.

But Ukrainian diplomatic corps must remain vigilant in order to avoid repeating the same scenario that was imposed on Crimea and Donbas

At the same time, I do not think that there have been any radical changes in Budapest's position in relation to Ukraine's Zakarpattia. It seems that Hungary has not even noticed how it has moved from supporting the Hungarian community and pro-Hungarian political forces in Zakarpattia (this long-time support especially intensified in recent years) into the institutional plane, that is, the creation of the ministerial post.

It seems that Hungarians themselves have not yet reflected on this quality change in their country's positioning in the foreign policy arena. However, it looks quite logical, in terms of the newly appointed minister continuing activities he was engaged in at previous posts. But of course, the status and assessment of Hungary's current actions on the territory of Ukraine must undoubtedly change.

Can the Crimea or Donbas scenario be repeated in Zakarpattia? I believe Hungary is not initiating the annexation scenario to the same extent as Russia once has. The Russian Federation deliberately provoked destabilization in Ukraine and was well aware of its own further steps. Moreover, all of its resources, human assets, and logistics were thought through and set up in advance.

Can the Crimea or Donbas scenario be repeated in Zakarpattia? I believe Hungary is not initiating the annexation scenario to the same extent as Russia once has

So, perhaps, the Hungarian government is first of all expecting some kind of internal political effect. And this is not only about the electorate, but also about the national idea. To date, in Hungary, supporting ethnic Hungarians outside the Hungarian state has become, in fact, one of the components of their national idea. The second component is countering migration. The government, which implements the national idea, undoubtedly gains popular loyalty and political support. So, this is much wider than just votes in the elections.

As for the plans for a possible annexation of Zakarpattia region, in this context, Hungary is acting within the framework of Russian policy and counts on further destabilization of Ukraine and partial deprivation of sovereignty when certain territories could become completely or partially uncontrolled by Kyiv. I believe that for this occasion, Budapest has been developing plans for the annexation of Zakarpattia. Although officially, of course, nobody will admit this.

As for the plans for a possible annexation of Zakarpattia region, in this context, Hungary is acting within the framework of Russian policy and counts on further destabilization of Ukraine and partial deprivation of sovereignty when certain territories could become completely or partially uncontrolled by Kyiv

Besides, I think that the Hungarian national minority and its leaders will not provoke destabilization or any violence in Zakarpattia or ask to become part of Hungary. That is, they will not behave like Russians in Crimea in 2014. At the same time, given the destabilization of the Ukrainian state and a partial loss of functionality, such prospects will be rather anticipated.

The behavior of Ukrainians, residents of Zakarpattia region, will also depend on the developments. But in the current circumstances, when Zakarpattia risks turning into a new Donbas, and none of the locals wants such a fate, the local population will not take steps in this direction. But if Ukraine loses the opportunity to defend its sovereignty and the accession to a neighboring state will seem to the region's residents an easy and painless endeavor, the scenario of Zakarpattia acceding to Hungary could find support in wider circles, not just the Hungarian minority.

Maksym Rozumnyi is a PhD in Political Science
In the letters dated 2012, Manafort stressed that Yanukovych should make pro-Israel statements, condemn the Svoboda party and anti-Semitic acts by opposition representatives.

The letters of former political adviser of ex-Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, Paul Manafort, whose case is currently being heard in the U.S. court, take note of Ukrainian opposition forces of the Yanukovych era.

According to TSN, the American advised his client to criticize the opposition for "anti-Semitic" stance, to gain more points among the western establishment.

Former MP Ruslan Koshulynskyy quotes the publication of the Western media that his Svoboda (Freedom) party was stirring up anti-Semitism. In addition to the Party of Regions, on whose image Manafort worked, there is also a nationalist party mentioned in his correspondence. Manafort said in his recommendations to Yanukovych that the concept of anti-Semitism as part of the opposition's policy were to be actively highlighted, precisely of since the opposition joined forces with the Svoboda party. In the letters dated 2012, Manafort stressed that Yanukovych should make pro-Israel statements, condemn the Svoboda party and anti-Semitic actions by the opposition. And in 2012, there were a lot of reasons to do so, by strange coincidence.

Read alsoReuters: Accountant of ex-Trump aide Manafort testifies she helped falsify documents

For example, MP from the Svoboda party, Ihor Miroshnychenko, had come to an unpleasant focus when he used a politically incorrect word when referring to the nationality of an actress Mila Kunis. And although she did not comment on the issue, the statement was condemned by the Wiesenthal Center and members of the U.S. Congress. For the United States, any racial issues, skin color issues, the issue of nationality, any oppression on national or religious grounds is a black mark, according to political scientist Kirilo Sazonov. They immediately cease contacts with a given political force and with the country It is clear that Manafort advised Yanukovych to play this card, Sazonov believes.

The implementation of Manafort's advice led to the appearance in the Verkhovna Rada of the bill on the prohibition of the language of hostility, which was jokingly called the "Kunis amendment." The bill was submitted by MP from the Party of Regions, Vadym Kolesnichenko. But the ultimate point was the situation with the resolution of the European Parliament on Ukraine  of 18 points made on the situation of freedom of speech, politics, where much was said about the then authorities, only one received wide publicity: concern over nationalistic and anti-Semitic statements of the Svoboda party.

Read alsoManafort's ex-business partner Gates: Ukrainian clients wire millions of dollars to account in Cyprus

Political scientists stress that these scandals could be avoided. But the Svoboda party denied accusations of anti-Semitism, and at the same time poured more oil on fire. "For some it's offensive, but for some it's harmless. You want to ban us from speaking Ukrainian. I cannot understand that," party leader Oleh Tiahnybok commented on the incident with Kunis. "Read [Ivan] Franko, read [Taras] Shevchenko, [Ivan] Nechuy-Levytsky others. None of them used that other word, and this had no negative connotation. And no one will tell Ukrainians how they should call anyone," another MP from the Svoboda party, Iryna Farion, said.

Experts still cannot reach a unanimous opinion on the motives of such statements. "It's very difficult to say whether there was a hostile intention or a show-off, or that they were simply exploited as useful idiots, but the fact they have been exploited is true," Sazonov said. "I do not rule out that one of the members of the party could easily have taken money from Yanukovych, and others couldn't even be aware," says political analyst Oleksandr Palii.

Experts are convinced that only the "secret ledgers" of the Yanukovych regime could give answers to all questions arising.
It is necessary to maintain a principled stance toward the state country to make it fulfill its international obligations, according to the official.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia Edgars Rinkevics says Ukraine and Georgia are defending pan-European security; therefore, they should become full-fledged NATO members.

"What happened in Georgia in 2008, and then in Ukraine, convinces us that we must do everything so that it does not happen again," the official said, as reported by Radio Poland's Ukrainian service.

The EU response to Russia's aggression against Georgia was "a big mistake," the diplomat believes. It is very important to remind the world what happened 10 years ago when international law and order were violated, the official added.

Read alsoPutin: Russia would respond "negatively" if NATO were to add either Ukraine or Georgia to alliance

The minister stressed that Latvia, Lithuania and Poland want Kyiv and Tbilisi to become NATO members.

In turn, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius added that, unfortunately, the war in Georgia in 2008 failed to stir up the world.

Therefore, they want to recall what happened. It is necessary to maintain a principled position toward the aggressor state to make it fulfill its international obligations, according to the Lithuanian official.

As UNIAN reported earlier, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Hungary earlier said that Ukraine is to blame itself for problems with the accession to the EU and NATO.
The corresponding delegations have already confirmed their intentions to come join their Ukrainian partners in celebrations of Ukraine's Independence Day.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak has said 15 representatives of foreign countries, most of whom from NATO Allies, will arrive in Ukraine for the celebration and military parade on the occasion of Independence Day.

"We have invited our partners to participate in the parade. And 15 partners, most of whom are from the Alliance, have confirmed they will come to celebrate our Independence Day together with Ukraine," he said at a briefing as part of the rehearsal of the military parade in Kyiv, an UNIAN correspondent reports.

As UNIAN reported earlier, this year a unit of female troops will march at the Independence Day parade in Kyiv, for the first time in Ukraine's history.
Manafort's income stream "substantially decreased" after the then president of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych had left power.

Rick Gates, a long-time business partner of U.S. President Donald Trump's onetime campaign chairman Paul Manafort, announced in court on August 7 that their company DMP International assisted Petro Poroshenko in 2014, and they were not paid in full.

"Gates said the last campaign he and Manafort worked in Ukraine was for the October Parliamentary election on behalf of the Opposition Bloc. DMP assisted Petro Poroshenko, and they were not paid in full," NBC News reported.

Read alsoManafort's ex-business partner Gates: Ukrainian clients wire millions of dollars to account in Cyprus

By 2014, the then president of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych was no longer in power and the Party of Regions disintegrated and evolved in the Opposition Bloc. When Yanukovych lost power, Gates testified, that "decreased the income stream" significantly for Manafort, and his financial situation had "substantially decreased" from prior years.

As UNIAN reported earlier, the Manafort case is part of an investigation by U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller into Russia's possible meddling in U.S. presidential election in 2016.

Manafort is facing charges with laundering of money he earned while working in Ukraine. He is also accused of not having registered as a foreign agent when he was lobbying pro-Russian Yanukovych's interests in the United States.

As reported, Manafort officially declared $14 million in income for 2010-2014. However, according to the prosecution, he earned $60 million in Ukraine alone.

A trial against Manafort, who is charged with money laundering, tax evasion for nearly 10 years of cooperation with former Ukrainian leaders, began on July 31.
Some 4,500 military and 250 pieces of equipment will take part in the event the minister says will be "powerful."

Ukraine is getting ready to hold the annual Independence Day parade in Kyiv.

"A military parade will take place at the Maidan Nezalezhnosti Square. It will be extremely powerful, greater than it was in the past years. It is dedicated to the 27th anniversary of Ukraine's independence, as well as the 100th anniversary of the revival of Ukraine's statehood," he said at a briefing, according to an UNIAN correspondent.

"In total, 4,500 military and 250 pieces of equipment will take part in the parade," the minister said.

Poltorak added for the first time 24 units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, SBU Security Service of Ukraine, National Guard, State Emergency Service, National Police, and other law enforcement agencies performing tasks to protect and defend the country will take part in the parade.

Read alsoOfficials from 15 states to attend Ukraine's Independence Day parade - Minister

"For the first time we will show a mechanized convoy, new models of weapons and equipment that have already been supplied to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. We will also show arms that are promising and now being tested. In total, there will be 250 such units of equipment," he said.

Poltorak also said the issue of participation of the Air Force in the parade will be resolved in the near future. "We are working out different options. And our Air Force is ready for any action, they are trained, well prepared. The decision on the air-force component will be taken in the near future," he said.
According to intelligence reports, one enemy troop was killed and another four were wounded.

Russia's hybrid military forces mounted 30 attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas in the past 24 hours, with three Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action (WIA).

"According to intelligence reports, one occupier was killed and another four were wounded," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) said in an update on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on August 7, 2018.

The Russian occupation forces opened aimed fire mainly from grenade launchers, heavy machine guns and small arms to attack the defenders of the towns of Maryinka, Avdiyivka and Krasnohorivka, and the villages of Krymske, Luhanske, Novoluhanske, Pivdenne, Novhorodske, Chermalyk, Hnutove, Lebedynske, Pavlopil, Vodiane, and Shyrokyne. In certain areas, the enemy engaged Ukrainian troops from infantry fighting vehicles.

Read alsoJCCC: Number of heavy weapons, military hardware in occupied Donbas skyrockets by 8.5 times in July

Along with this, the enemy shelled the Ukrainian positions near Novoluhanske and Lebedynske, using 82mm mortars. The defenders of Avdiyivka came under fire from 120mm and 82mm mortars. In addition, the enemy used a 120mm mortar to attack the Ukrainian positions near Hnutove.

"Since Tuesday midnight, Russian-led forces have mounted seven attacks on the Ukrainian positions near the villages of Krymske, Malynove, Novozvanivka, Troyitske, Lebedynske, and Shyrokyne. No heavy weapons were used," the report says.
OSCE monitors' freedom of movement has been hindered around 40 times in southern parts of non-government-controlled areas of Donetsk region in the past month.

U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker says Russia and its forces do not want the world to see the humanitarian and economic disaster in the east of Ukraine.

"Russia and its forces routinely block [the] OSCE SMM in violation of its commitments. Russia doesn't want [the] world to see that it has created a humanitarian, economic, & ecological disaster in Donbas. It's time for peace for Ukraine," he tweeted on August 7.

This was Volker's comment on a statement by the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine, which reported it had faced limited access to the occupied areas in eastern Ukraine.

Read alsoJCCC: Number of heavy weapons, military hardware in occupied Donbas skyrockets by 8.5 times in July

"OSCE SMM monitors have been once again stopped at the entrance to non-government-controlled Novoazovsk. In the past month, our freedom of movement has been hindered around 40 times in southern parts of non-government-controlled areas of Donetsk region," the OSCE SMM tweeted on August 3.

"Being held at the checkpoint for over three hours, monitors observe other civilians passing though the same checkpoint unrestrictedly. Such impediments to our movement often happen because the sides know that if the SMM observes something, we will publicly report about it," the OSCE SMM said.
Gates said he and Manafort knowingly failed to report foreign bank accounts.

Rick Gates, a long-time business partner of U.S. President Donald Trump's onetime campaign chairman Paul Manafort, has testified in a federal court that the latter's Ukrainian clients  Rinat Akhmetov, Serhiy Lyovochkin, Sergiy Tigipko, Andriy Klyuyev and Borys Kolesnikov, have paid millions of U.S. dollars by wiring money from their Cyprus accounts to Manafort's foreign bank account in Cyprus.

"Gates said the operatives in Ukraine paid Manafort millions of dollars for political and policy work by wiring money from their companies in Cyprus to Manafort's unreported foreign bank account in Cyprus," the Ukrayinska Pravda online newspaper quoted the Washington Post as saying.

At times, Gates testified that Manafort would move money from Cyprus to his U.S. accounts.

When Gates said Manafort was moving money from Cyprus, he said he was talking not about "shell companies" but "shelf companies"  as in, off-the-shelf, premade for someone to take over.

Read alsoReuters: Accountant of ex-Trump aide Manafort testifies she helped falsify documents

"They're already on the shelf," he explained.

Gates said he and Manafort knowingly failed to report foreign bank accounts and had failed to register Manafort as a foreign agent.

Greg Andres, the prosecutor, asked Gates whether he understood that his lies to Manafort's accountants and omissions were illegal. "Yes," Gates said.

When asked why he had lied, Gates said he had done so at Manafort's request.

Separately, Gates explained that Manafort had directed him to report money wired from his foreign bank accounts as loans, rather than as income, to reduce Manafort's taxable income. By reporting it as a loan, Gates explained, Manafort could defer the amount of taxes he owed.

What is more, Gates admitted he had embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort.

As reported, Manafort officially declared $14 million in income for 2010-2014. However, according to the prosecution, he earned $60 million in Ukraine alone.

On July 31, the United States began a trial against Manafort, who is charged with money laundering, tax evasion for nearly 10 years of cooperation with former Ukrainian leaders.
U.S. military reviewing security practices after fitness app reveals sensitive info.

The Pentagon is banning deployed personnel from using fitness trackers, smartphones and potentially even dating apps that use geolocating features that could reveal the user's location.

The ban was announced in a Pentagon memorandum issued Friday and signed by Deputy Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan, according to CNN.

"Effective immediately, Defense Department personnel are prohibited from using geolocation features and functionality on government and non-government-issued devices, applications and services while in locations designated as operational areas," the policy memo said.

The Pentagon said in January it was reviewing policies regarding such devices after it was revealed that Strava, a fitness tracking app that maps people's exercise habits, may have inadvertently revealed the locations of security forces around the world.

"It goes back to making sure we're not giving the enemy an unfair advantage and we're not showcasing the exact location of our troops worldwide," Pentagon spokesman Col. Rob Manning told reporters Monday.

"This is all electronic devices that have geolocating features, basically GPS enabled devices, applications, that type of thing," Manning added.

While the devices themselves will not be banned, service members will be responsible for ensuring their geolocation features are disabled.

Read alsoUkraine's Deputy minister says 1,500 Russia's servicemen who annexed Crimea identified

Many popular devices and applications, including smartphones, smart watches, fitness and dating apps use geolocation and some applications could potentially not work with the geolocation features turned off.

The new policy says the ban applies to all personnel in "operational areas," which Manning said "absolutely" includes troops deployed overseas.

CIA agents in 'about 30 countries' being tracked by technology, top official says

Manning said that commanders would have some flexibility with regard to enforcing the ban and punishing potential violators.

Read alsoRussia tests electronic warfare tools on U.S. troops in Syria

"It would depend on how egregious the infraction was obviously, but again, commanders are given some latitude within the policy," he said.

The memo does say that Combatant Commanders, who oversee US troops around the world, could authorize the use of the devices, but only after conducting "a threat-based comprehensive Operations Security survey."

The ban would not affect military and civilian personnel in places like the Pentagon.
Ashley Dunlap, 56, of East Chicago, pleaded guilty to using fake checks to meet the surety requirements to secure renovation jobs for two of Gary Housing Authoritys properties, according to court documents. Judge Philip Simon Wednesday asked what the actual loss was because of the crime, and the debate on whether the loss was roughly $347,000 or around $180,000 led to the sentencing being continued.
Any British government request is likely to meet with a scornful response from Moscow.

The British government is poised to submit an extradition request to Moscow for two Russians suspected of carrying out the Salisbury nerve agent attack that left one person dead and three injured, according to Whitehall and security sources.

The move comes after months of painstaking investigation by hundreds of officers from the police and the intelligence agencies. They have pieced together the movements of the two Russians, from their entry into the UK through to their departure, according to the Guardian.

The Crown Prosecution Service, which prepared the extradition request, has completed the process and is ready to file, the sources said.

The request will reignite the simmering diplomatic row with Russia, which is certain to reject it, prompting another round of tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions.

Relations between the UK and Russia sank to their lowest point since the end of the cold war after the nerve agent attack on Sergei Skripal, a former colonel in Russian military intelligence, and his daughter, Yulia, in Salisbury in March. They were found unconscious on a bench in a shopping centre after being exposed to novichok.

Read alsoRussia's GRU military intel behind Salisbury poisoning  media

UK intelligence chiefs have specifically blamed Russia for the attack.

Charlie Rowley and Dawn Sturgess were subsequently treated for exposure to the nerve agent. Rowley recovered but Sturgess died.

The Kremlin has denied any responsibility and waged a furious campaign of counter-accusation. It has suggested the UK is holding the Skripals against their will and denying them Russian consular assistance.

Any British government request is likely to meet with a scornful response from Moscow.

Putin rejected a similar extradition request in 2007 for two Russians suspected of being behind the 2006 assassination with polonium of the former FSB officer Alexander Litvinenko in London.
TUT.BY editor-in-chief Maryna Zolatava and editor Hanna Kaltyhina, and Tatsyana Karavenkava of BelaPAN have been detained.

Searches are ongoing on several floors of the Omega Tower business center where TUT.BY portal is headquartered.

"For the first twenty years of its existence, a search is being conducted at tut.by. I have been not aware of any details yet. The staff are being prevented from entering the office. Maryna Zolatava [editor-in-chief] might be interrogated now. My husband is trying to find out what is going on," Yuliya Charnyauskaya, the wife of Yury Zisser, a founder of tyt.by, said on Facebook, belsat.eu wrote.

Law enforcement officers are seizing documents, several employees of the portal have been summoned for questioning. According to preliminary information, the search warrant says that unauthorized access to the website of the state news agency BelTA took place from the TUT.BY office.

Read alsoBelarus citizens shifting away from under Moscow influence

The police have also come to the office of BelaPAN news agency with a search warrant, a representative of the company confirmed to belsat.eu.

It should be recalled that the home of Ales Lipai, the founder and director general of independent news agency BelaPAN, was raided by the finance police in June. Lipai was suspected of tax evasion. It is the Financial Investigations Department (part of the State Control Committee) that opened the criminal case against chairman of the Human Rights Centre Viasna Ales Byalyatski in 2011. After the seven-hour search, Lipai was taken for questioning and then released.

The Belarusian Investigative Committee says a criminal case was initiated under the article 'unauthorized access to computer information, made out of personal interest, which caused significant harm'. According to the investigators, state-run news agency BelTA reported abuse access to their paid subscription.

"During the inspection the Ministry of Interior identified numerous cases of illegal access to information, the owner of which is BelTA,", they stated.

A number of companies had illegal access to BelTA's 'premium content' during the period of 2017-2018, which 'has caused substantial financial damage' to the state-controlled agency.

The official website of the Investigative Committee gives the names of employees of tut.by, BelaPAN and Belarusian Science publishing house who they state are involved in illegal activities.

TUT.BY editor-in-chief Maryna Zolatava and editor Hanna Kaltyhina, and Tatsyana Karavenkava of BelaPAN have been detained.

According to unconfirmed information, Ulyana Babayed (tut.by) is also being questioned.
As tensions with the Kremlin have grown, the sanctions' goals have seemingly multiplied.

A major problem with the current use of sanctions is that the U.S. treats them as an end in and of themselves, rather than as a means to an end.

Sanctions are meant to induce adversaries to come to the negotiating table; when they achieve their goals, they should end. Attacking each and every foreign-policy problem with sanctions will make them more rigid and harder to lift. Whereas policy makers once articulated clear conditions that would lead to sanctions relief, U.S. officials now layer sanctions authorities on top of one another for each new perceived transgression, reads a column published by the Atlantic.

Considering the U.S. sanctions on Russia for its actions in Ukraine, the authors recall that these measures went into effect in 2014. But a year later, U.S. officials tied sanctions relief to Moscow's compliance with the Minsk II peace road map, which outlined steps including a ceasefire, the withdrawal of heavy weapons from the front line, and the reintegration of the separatist regions.

Read alsoU.S. Senator reveals details of new set of "hard-hitting" Russia sanctions

As tensions with the Kremlin have grown, the sanctions' goals have seemingly multiplied. When the Trump administration sanctioned major Russian oligarchs in April 2018, the Treasury Department added a laundry list of complaints to its original Ukraine justification, including Russia's support for Bashar al-Assad in Syria, its election meddling, and its malicious cyberactivity.

"While all these activities surely warranted pushback from the United States, they've led to a sort of mission creep. Sanctions work best as narrowly targeted measures tied to clear demands  an approach most likely to lead to practical deals," the column says.
Georgian people continue to demonstrate strong faith and trust in the European and Euro-Atlantic structures.

Ukraine, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland have called on Russia to reverse the illegal recognition of the so-called independence of Georgia's Abkhazia, Tskhinvali/South Ossetia regions.

"We continue to call on Russia to reverse its illegal recognition of the so-called independence of Georgia's Abkhazia and Tskhinvali/South Ossetia regions, to fully implement the 12 August 2008 Ceasefire Agreement, to engage in a constructive manner into the process of Geneva International Discussions (GID), and to enable access by the European Union Monitoring Mission and the international human rights monitoring mechanisms to the occupied territories of Georgia," the countries said in a joint communique commemorating the decade since Russian aggression against Georgia.

The document was posted on the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry's website.

The four countries reaffirmed their unwavering support for Georgia's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

Read alsoRussian military presence in Abkhazia, South Ossetia violates international law  EU

"By commemorating the 10 years since the Russian aggression against Georgia, which has significantly impeded Georgia's economic development, we continue to call on the international community to stand united in supporting Georgia and to continue to demand that Russia fully and without any further delay implements its international commitments and starts honouring international law and the right of sovereign neighbouring states to choose their own destiny," the statement said.

According to it, Georgian people continue to demonstrate strong faith and trust in the European and Euro-Atlantic structures. "We reaffirm our strong support for Georgia's sovereign choice to pursue the ultimate goal of membership in the EU and NATO. Even with the occupation of 20 percent of its territory, Georgia has made very significant progress in implementing reforms and has become a reliable and exemplary partner of both the EU and NATO," they said.

"We reaffirm that NATO remains the cornerstone of our security and collective defence, and that our countries stand firm in solidarity, committed to develop our cooperation to address better all security concerns and contribute to the Alliance's tasks. In this context, we welcome the NATO Brussels Summit Declaration (11 July 2018), by which all 29 Allies reconfirmed that Georgia will become a member of NATO," the statement said.

The Russian military invasion of Georgia started on August 7, 2008.
August 7 2018

Ambitious plans to deliver a 1.3bn innovation park on the outskirts of Edinburgh are now fully funded after 600m of City Deal capital was confirmed by the UK and Scottish governments.

A joint venture between Queen Margaret University and East Lothian Council the phased project is earmarked for 52 acres of land adjacent to the current campus, doubling as a commercial and research hub for the food and drink sector with an expanded Centre for Food Development & Innovation at its heart.

QMU principal, professor Petra Wend, said: The offer of City Region Deal funding will now allow the University, working in close partnership with East Lothian Council, to move forward with these plans, which are expected to bring almost 1,000 new jobs to the area in the first phase alone. The additional development planned on the land around the University campus, including the construction of new housing, will mean that the University will become part of a vibrant new community within the County.

Tangential improvements to the Edinburgh City bypass have also been backed to improve road capacity as part of a masterplan by 10 Design.
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DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 07th Aug, 2018) The Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently participated in the 4th Global Agribusiness Forum in Sao Paolo where it highlighted strengthening agricultural trade links between Dubai and Latin America, as well as key areas where bilateral trade can be increased in the future.

The forum was attended by more than 1,500 key stakeholders ranging from businesspeople, government authorities, Brazilian and foreign exporters, importers and investors and local media who gathered to discuss the future of agriculture business in the world, in addition to solutions to challenges faced by humanity to develop social and economically and preserve the environment.

Representatives from over 150 companies visited Dubai Chambers stand at the forum and visitors were briefed on the various services the Chamber provides to member companies, progress achieved at the Global Business Forum on Latin America 2018 in Dubai and the findings of a recent report on agricultural trade activity between GCC and Latin American countries.

During the forum, Omar Khan, Dubai Chambers Director of International Offices, met with Latin American company representatives operating in a wide variety of sectors, including agriculture, cosmetics, logistics, legal, trade and commodities.

Khan also participated in a panel discussion covering public-private sector cooperation which was joined by other government officials from Brazil, Latin America and the EU.

During the panel, he emphasised the importance of events like the Global Agribusiness Forum which provide an ideal platform to showcase Dubais competitive advantages. Khan highlighted Dubais successful model of close cooperation between its public and private sectors and explained that this has greatly contributed to the emirates remarkable economic progress over the last decade.
Dr. Al Hassan Al Taher, Governor of Hodeidah, has warned of an Iranian plan to create a maritime crisis in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab Al Mandeb, in order to avoid an internal crisis and halt the re-imposition of sanctions.

ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 07th Aug, 2018) Dr. Al Hassan Al Taher, Governor of Hodeidah, has warned of an Iranian plan to create a maritime crisis in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab Al Mandeb, in order to avoid an internal crisis and halt the re-imposition of sanctions.

In his statement to the Emirates news Agency, WAM, Al Taher stressed that the end of Houthi control of the Port of Hodeidah and other parts of the Red Sea Coast is the beginning of the end of Irans plan, and will ensure the safe passage of international maritime navigation through Bab Al Mandeb and the Arabian Sea.

He added that Iran aims, through the militias in Yemen, to exert pressure on the international community, by targeting oil tankers and trade ships in the Arabian Gulf and the Arabian Sea, especially in light of the latest developments in its nuclear programme and the start of international sanctions.

Iranian officials made statements that directly threatened the security of the strait and other maritime corridors after growing international pressure was placed on the country due to its expansionary policies and its threats to world security and stability, as well as its support for terrorism.

The Arab Coalition, led by Saudi Arabia, has warned about the dangers posed by the Iranian-backed Houthi militias in Hodeidah Port, which they transformed into a maritime minefield and a base to target oil tankers and trade ships travelling through Bab Al Mandeb and the Arabian Sea.

The attack on a Saudi oil tanker in the Red Sea last month confirmed these warnings and brought back the memory of terrorist attacks carried out by Houthi militias in the Red Sea, upon the directives of Iran.

While controlling Hodeidah over many years, the militias made several attempts to attack ships crossing the Red Sea. On 10th October, 2016, the barge, the "US Mason," was attacked by a Houthi missile near Mocha port, and after only two days, the same barge was attacked again. On 30th January, 2017, three Houthi ships targeted a Saudi frigate in Western Hodeidah, and on 30th July of the same year, a boat was attacked by explosives in Mocha Port.

The international community is concerned that the increasing Houthi attacks in Bab Al Mandeb will have a catastrophic effect on the international economy, especially as 10 percent of global oil production passes through the strait while 20 percent of the global oil production passes through the Hormuz Strait, which Iran has threatened to close.
ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 07th Aug, 2018) The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, KFE, has organised a workshop aimed at increasing awareness on the significant role played by today's online marketplace and its benefits.

The event, which was held in collaboration with the Expo 2020 Dubai team at the Khalifa University, covered key discussions on the unique features of the Expo 2020 online market portal and the many business development opportunities it brings. The workshop, which was attended by local entrepreneurs and KFED strategic partners, threw light on how local companies, including SMEs, can leverage and showcase their products and services across a wider global audience.

During the sessions, the Expo 2020 Dubai team talked about the importance of the online marketplace and the advantages being brought in by having key access to local and international suppliers. Representatives from the team shared how e-marketplaces help in facilitating product searches and purchases, which saves time as opposed to buying via traditional means. The lecturers also went through the objectives of the online marketplace, the registration procedures for the coming event and shared some contract opportunities that can benefit SMEs in Expo 2020 Dubai.

Khalid Sharaf, Head of Business Relationships, Business Integration and Activations of Expo 2020 Dubai, said, "The workshop proves to be very timely and strategic as we are coming close to hosting Expo 2020. The sessions allowed participants to learn more about the online marketplace and how it supports SMEs like how to increase their sales, interact with other companies, get feedback on their products and services, and optimise direct and non-direct opportunities from Expo 2020. This is also an opportunity for SMEs to benefit from an integrated e-community that contributes to building a meaningful and enduring legacy beyond Expo 2020."

Ahmad Khalfan Matar Al Rumaithi, Senior Manager, Entrepreneurship Development - Support and Membership at Khalifa Fund, explained that other workshops will also be held across different emirates in line with supporting the growth and development of SMEs and to help increase their capacities to contribute positively to the countrys economy through their projects.
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Perus Trade, Tourism and Investment Office has revealed that exports from Peru to the UAE have risen by almost 10,000 percent in seven years.

(UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 07th Aug, 2018) DUBAI, 7th August, 2018 (WAM) - Perus Trade, Tourism and Investment Office has revealed that exports from Peru to the UAE have risen by almost 10,000 percent in seven years.

Exports from Peru to the Emirates increased from US$6 million in 2011 to $600 million last year thanks to increasing demand from consumers and the ongoing work of the Trade, Tourism and Investment Office of Peru (TTIOP), the Dubai-based economic and commercial office of Perus Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism.

Since 2016, major UAE businesses such as DP World and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority have made multi-million-dollar investments in the countrys shipping, logistics and energy sectors thanks to the increase in trade and improving bi-lateral relations.

The Emirates imports vast quantities of goods from the South American country, including avocados, quinoa, and asparagus, gold, high-quality craft products and clothing.

The TTIOP has been able to increase exports to the UAE despite a variety of challenges, such as the distance between the two countries and a lack of awareness among businesses. But the biggest obstacle remains the absence of direct flights between the two countries, with cargo as well as airline passengers required to transit through other airports.

"Our greatest challenge is connectivity. It takes around 42 days to ship goods from Peru to the UAE, so produce is often shipped to a port in Europe and from there flown to Dubai," says Alvaro Silva-Santisteban, Director of the TTIOP.

"A connecting flight between Dubai and Lima would certainly help. Using a European hub means additional cost and thus a product that is more expensive, so your Peruvian avocado or mango is going to cost more. It also means tourists face issues in getting to Peru, especially UAE residents who prefer to fly direct with the countrys major airlines."

d Peru, a country of 31 million people, more than 14,800 kilometers and nine time-zones away from the UAE, counts the Emirates among its top 20 export markets. At the same time, Emirati companies are investing in Perus supply and logistics industries as they gain greater access to South America and global trade routes.

The range of goods Peru exports to the UAE ranges from commodities such as gold and glass to food and beverage items.

"We have worked hard to increase our gold exports since 2014," says Silva-Santisteban. "The UAE is now amongst the top six countries that Peru exports gold to and ranks as the number one individual product, however food has seen the greatest growth and is the most diversified basket of products we export to the UAE."

Perus ability to out-perform countries that are not only larger but also closer to the UAE, and develop a market for its goods is the result of years of work.

The TTIOP was set up in Dubai in 2011, with the aim of encouraging not only companies in the Emirates to import products from Peru, but to also help businesses in the South American country to see the UAE as a lucrative market.

"The leap in exports from Peru to the UAE has been huge," says Silva-Santisteban. "The relationship between the two countries has grown in importance over the years to an extent that at the end of last year Peru became the second largest investment destination for Emirati companies in South America, and amongst the three biggest trading partners for the UAE in Latin America.

"Once every 15 days we have a delegation of UAE businesses visiting Peru, or companies from Peru travelling to the UAE. The UAE has become an important market for Peruvian companies. Businesses in both countries are seeing the benefits of trading here and in meeting UAE consumers demand for Peruvian products and services. The aim now is to turn these steppingstones into pillars as we position Dubai as a platform for the region.In May, DP World sealed a US$316 million deal for Cosmos Agencia Maritima, the Peruvian container and logistics firm. It is now managing not only the major port of Callao, next to the capital Lima, but also the port of Paita, in the north of Peru, the second biggest in terms of movement of shipping containers.

"We have a very good relationship with DP World whereby Peruvian exporters receive benefits if they use Jebel Ali Port. What also helps, and is a competitive advantage, is the brand association, as we can say a Peruvian product departs from an Emirati company arriving into an Emirati Company.

"DP World, with the investment it has made, probably handles 90-95 percent of the total container exports from Peru."
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About 113,139 intending Pakistani Hajj pilgrims, including 76,139 of government scheme and 3,7000 private scheme, have so far reached Saudi Arabia since July 14, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony said on Tuesday.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :About 113,139 intending Pakistani Hajj pilgrims, including 76,139 of government scheme and 3,7000 private scheme, have so far reached Saudi Arabia since July 14, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony said on Tuesday.

Talking to APP, a ministry official Umer Butt said about 36,516 pilgrims had been provided outdoor treatment facilities in the ministry's hospitals set up in Makkah and Madina. Some 193 of them were referred to Saudi hospitals for further treatment while 170 were admitted in the Mission hospitals for treatment, he added.

The official said 12 intending pilgrims, including 11 of government scheme and one of private scheme died in Saudi Arabia.

He said the intending pilgrims were being provided three and four star hotel resident facilities. The services of 13 catering companies had been hired for providing three times meal to the pilgrims He said the toll free helpline established by the ministry had so far received over 674 calls of government and private scheme intending pilgrims, seeking assistance during their stay in Saudi Arabia.

The sources said the ministry had so far received over 261 complaints, out of which 218 had already been resolved up to the satisfaction of the complainants.

Some 87 complaints regarding quality of meals were received, 52 of which were addressed promptly while the rest were being resolved, they said.

Both government and private scheme pilgrims can register their complaints on the toll-free number 800-1166622.

Call agents working on the helpline are working round the clock to facilitate intending pilgrims. Hajj medical mission, set up by the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MORA) in Makkah Mukarramah, is catering the healthcare needs of Pakistani pilgrims also.
Before a house can be demolished, he said its owner must be notified for an unsafe building hearing in a process that could take up to six months. Utilities must be shut off and the home must be free of asbestos.
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Federal Minister for Water Resources Syed Ail Zafar on Monday said that Pakistan was facing water scarcity and time had come to take drastic measures and build new dams and water reservoirs, on emergency basis for overcoming that problem.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2018 ) :Federal Minister for Water Resources Syed Ail Zafar on Monday said that Pakistan was facing water scarcity and time had come to take drastic measures and build new dams and water reservoirs, on emergency basis for overcoming that problem.

Addressing a press conference here he said it was a good omen that now there was growing realization about the importance of water issue in the country. He said that during the past two months consultations were held with experts and measures were suggested for overcoming water shortage in the country.

Syed Ali Zafar said the caretaker government had prepared guidelines for the next government to address the water scarcity issue in the country.

Ali Zafar said that Pakistan was a lower riparian country where water came from other countries and due to that phenomenon Indus Waters Treaty was signed in the 1960s under which India had the right to use water of three rivers, while Pakistan had the right to utilize water of three other rivers flowing from India to Pakistan.

He said India built dams and set up water reservoirs, but unfortunately Pakistan could only build two dams instead of the proposed seven or eight dams and no major progress could be achieved on building of water reservoirs.

He said that Pakistan had the quota of 138 million acre-feet (MAF) water but the two dams could only store upto 13.1 MAF water and their capacity was further reducing due to siltation. Out of the 138 MAF water of Pakistan, only 13.1 MAF was stored and some water was used for irrigation while the rest was wasted in oceans.

He said that in the past consensus could not be developed on Kalabagh Dam, but it was beyond comprehension as to why other reservoirs were not built by successive governments.

He said that Pakistan was already facing water scarcity and climate change scenario could also have negative impact. Moreover, water high flow in rivers came only for a few months, so it was vital to have dams to store that water, he added.

He said that hydel power the world over was the cheapest source of power generation and about 30 to 40 per cent electricity was generated from water, but in Pakistan that ratio stood at only 27 per cent. He said that over 90 per cent of water in Pakistan was used for irrigation purposes out of which about 48 per cent was wasted as brick lining of canals had not been done in so far. If lining of canals was done the country could save 6.5 MAF water per annum, but in the past this area also remained neglected, he added.

He said that Pakistan was still using centuries old techniques of watering the fields while the world had moved forward and adopted latest techniques.

The minister said that in Pakistan drinking water was being used as sewerage water, while the advanced countries use treated water for sewerage. He said that developed countries spent 20 to 30 per cent of their budget on water while Pakistan had been spending only 3 to 7 per cent and there was need of drastic increase in budgetary allocations for that sector.

He said that India had violated the Indus Water Treaty and built Kishen Ganga Dam and it had also planned another dam to usurp Pakistan's share of water. He said that Pakistan should contest this case and ask the World Bank to form an arbitration commission to resolve the matter.

Among the proposals to overcome water crisis, he said it was suggested that consensus should be built on Kalabagh Dam's construction. He said the construction work of Diamer-Bhasha and Mohmand dams should start and indigenous resources should be use for their construction, while commercial loans could be obtained for power generation.

He said that 400 to 500 small dams should be built on emergency basis and up to 20 per cent of the budget should be allocated for water. Moreover, brick lining of canals should be done to save 6.5 MAF water per year. He said there was a need to introduce modern irrigation system in the country to save water, educate, equip and provide farmers financial assistance to achieve that goal.

The Minister said the other proposals included regulation of tube wells, standardized equipment to gauge water for reducing confusion among provinces over division of water, water treatment plants and system for preservation of rainwater.

Replying to media persons' questions, Ali Zafar said that although there was a great challenge in convincing the World Bank to establish court of arbitration regarding Indus Waters Treaty, Pakistan could utilize its influence by engaging international community in its favour.

He said since canal system was the prerogative of the provinces therefore, under the new National Water Policy, the new government would ask the provinces to allocate sufficient funds for brick lining of the canal system across the country.

Replying to another query regarding challenges in developing consensus on building Kala Bagh Dam, the minister said political will and educating the people in that regard was urgently needed on footing basis because the country could not afford wastage of any more time.

Regarding electricity production, Secretary Water Resources Shamail Ahmed Khawaja informed that as of today, total hydro electricity production was recorded at 7000 MW out of total installed capacity of 9,383 MW.
Pakistan Ambassador to China, Masood Khalid attended the opening ceremony of a two-week Nepali food festival held here at a local hotel

BEIJING,(UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :Pakistan Ambassador to China, Masood Khalid attended the opening ceremony of a two-week Nepali food festival held here at a local hotel.

The food festival was organized on the occasion of the 63rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Nepal.

Nepalese Ambassador to China Leela Mani Paudyal cut the ribbon with other guests and representatives at the recently held launching ceremony.

He said that the Nepali Food Festival provides Chinese people with the unique opportunity to enjoy the gastronomic aromas and flavors from the Himalayan country.

The inaugural event was attended by Vice President of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries Lin Yi, officials of the Chinese government, ambassadors and members of the diplomatic community and representatives from various culture-related organizations, universities, academies, think tanks and the media.

The event is the first of its kind held by the Nepalese Embassy in Beijing, and it is being hosted with the support of the Nepal Tourism board, Beijing People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, Nepal Chefs Association and Beijing Minzu Hotel.
Commander 10-Corps Lieutenant General Nadeem along with Force Commander Northern Areas Major General Saqib Mehmood Malik, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Gilgit Baltistan Sanaullah Abbasi besides heads of other law enforcement agencies visited Diamer where they were taken round to the affected educational institutions in the area

GILGIT, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :Commander 10-Corps Lieutenant General Nadeem along with Force Commander Northern Areas Major General Saqib Mehmood Malik, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Gilgit Baltistan Sanaullah Abbasi besides heads of other law enforcement agencies visited Diamer where they were taken round to the affected educational institutions in the area.

The Commander Crops 10 Lieutenant General Nadeem said that cowardly attempt of promoting terrorism by torching education institution was a highly regrettable and condemnable act.

He said that subversive acts could not deter the resolve to wiping out terrorism, adding enemies would be tracked down and dealt with iron hand.

He urged the residents and members of Jirga to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in identifying these miscreants in order to purge the area from these subversive elements.

He also appreciated residents for extending self-help security to the education institutions. He also prayed Allah Almighty to rest the departed soul of Arif Hussain Shaheed in peace and added that entire nationwas proud of him and his supreme sacrifice for the country.
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 7 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :A Faisalabad school has been using solar power to run night classes to educate poor children, according to an article published on the World Economic Forum's website.

In December 2016, 23-year-old social activist and educationist Rohayl Varind set up two branches of 'Slum School' in the city to educate poor children.

The school does not accept cash donations and rather seeks food, stationary, and laptops. Interestingly, another thing on Varind's donations list is solar powered equipment.

The school, since the time of its inception, has relied on solar energy to power its lights, fans, and IT equipment.

"Where my Slum School is located, there is no electricity so I considered solar energy the best alternative," Varind said.

"It's free and easy to install and use." The classes are run from 7pm to 9pm, with 23-year-old educationist teaching the kids English, urdu, math, and science.

Varind splits his time equally between the two branches of the school, which have a total of over 100 students. Volunteers, which include Varind's friends and other activists, also come in to teach computer, Taekwondo, graphic design, and other subjects to students.

A number of the children Varind teaches are child labourers.

"They start working as house helps or maids. Many boys start working at paan (betel leaf) shops or tea stalls, cafs or restaurants as waiters or cleaners," he said. "One thing is common in majority of child labourers is that they work the whole day and get free at night."
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Mayor of Islamabad, Sheikh Anser Aziz said that Ghazi Brotha project would help eliminate water shortage issue on permanent basis as it would provide 200 MGD water to the city.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :Mayor of Islamabad, Sheikh Anser Aziz said that Ghazi Brotha project would help eliminate water shortage issue on permanent basis as it would provide 200 MGD water to the city.

Mayor Islamabad informed this during a meeting with Chinese delegation. The delegation took interest in different development initiatives of Metropolitan Corporation and gave different suggestions in this regard.

Mayor of Islamabad informed the delegation that provision of sufficient water to the residents of the Federal Capital is among the top priorities of MCI.

He said that Islamabad is expanding day by day and existing water resources including Simly Dam, Tube wells and Khanpur Dam cannot meet water requirement of the city.

He said the Government of Pakistan has approved provision of water from Ghazi Brotha Project and soon after completion of necessary codal formalities work on the project would be launched.

Mayor of Islamabad told the delegation that MCI is also planning to replace old and dilapidated water supply lines and existing network.

He said that existing water supply network was laid down in 60s which are now in dilapidated and due to leakages, large quantity of water waste on daily basis.

He further informed that initially, repair / maintenance of water supply line, conducting water from Simly Dam to the city, has been completed while repair / maintenance on rest of water supply network is in progress. Mayor Islamabad also briefed the delegation about other different development projects being carried out MCI.

During the meeting it was decided Chinese delegation and technical team of MCI would discuss and prepare different proposals. After evaluation, these proposals will be submitted to the government for approval.
Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) chief Senator Sirajul Haq Tuesday said his party wanted to implement Islamic system in the country, which would eliminate all social evils, including corruption, from the society.

QUETTA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) chief Senator Sirajul Haq Tuesday said his party wanted to implement Islamic system in the country, which would eliminate all social evils, including corruption, from the society.

Pakistan was an Islamic state and being Muslims eradicating corruption from the country was the foremost responsibility of all, he said addressing a press conference here.

JI leaders Liaquat Baloch, Maulana Abdul Haq Hashmi and Dr Ata-ul-Rahman were also present on the occasion.

Sirajul Haq hoped that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan would fulfill his pledge made by him in his first post-election victory speech regarding introduction of a governance system in the country on the pattern of State of Madina.

To a question, he said they had reservations regarding the election results.
As part of the US Government's efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector in Pakistan, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been working with the Government of Pakistan and private sector since 2009 to expand the market of Pakistani mangoes globally.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :As part of the US Government's efforts to strengthen the agricultural sector in Pakistan, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been working with the Government of Pakistan and private sector since 2009 to expand the market of Pakistani mangoes globally.

Stakeholders organized the mango gala in order to celebrate this long-term partnership and its many achievements.

The USAID/Pakistan Mission Director Jerry Bisson, Chairman of the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) Dr. Yusuf Zafar, Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) President Ghazanfar Bilour, and mango growers from all over the country attended the gala, US embassy in a press release said on Tuesday.

Addressing the mango sector stakeholders, Mission Director Jerry Bisson said the US government, through USAID, was proud to partner with the Pakistan mango sector in developing new markets, while ensuring compliance with international grading standards and export protocols.

He expressed the confidence that by facilitating infrastructure upgrades, introducing new technologies and promoting market opportunities, would increase exports to high-end markets, improving revenues for Pakistani mango farmers and exporters.

The event brought together stakeholders from the public and private sectors to investigate trends and opportunities, recognize local farmers' innovations in, and reaffirm USAID's commitment towards uplifting Pakistan's mango sector.

Since 2009, USAID had supported mango farmers in upgrading fruit processing technologies and addressing export protocols more efficiently.

Under the project's grant programme, USAID provided 13 state-of-the-art mango graders and these graders became operational in 2017.

This partnership has served as a catalyst to improve the quality, increase the quantity of agricultural produce, and promote cooperation among farmers, processers, exporters, and buyers of Pakistani agricultural products, resulting in both increased incomes and employment opportunities.
Nazriya Pakistan Council Trust (NPCT) has planned to arrange a number of activities to mark Independence Day including a 7-day exhibition of rare photographs of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah to aware the youth about the historical struggle behind creation of Pakistan as well as a seminar

ISLAMABAD,(UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :Nazriya Pakistan Council Trust (NPCT) has planned to arrange a number of activities to mark Independence Day including a 7-day exhibition of rare photographs of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah to aware the youth about the historical struggle behind creation of Pakistan as well as a seminar.

Media Director of NPCT, Anjum Khaleeq told APP that the dates for these activities will be finalized within a day.

He said it is a regular feature of the council to arrange such activities every year to mark Independence Day in befitting manner.

He said NPCT has also displayed a big banner for the general public on which they write their messages regarding August 14. A large number of visitors have starting visiting the council to write their messages on this banner.

The title of the seminar to be arranged soon after Independence Day will be "Pakistan; August 14, 1947-Pakistan; August 14, 2018" .The speakers will present their articles regarding Pakistan Movement, he added.
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Pakistan and Turkey Tuesday agreed to boost collaboration in the field of disaster management through increased interaction in training, sharing of experiences and joint exercises.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :Pakistan and Turkey Tuesday agreed to boost collaboration in the field of disaster management through increased interaction in training, sharing of experiences and joint exercises.

The two sides agreed to further intensify mutual cooperation during a meeting between Pakistan National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Chairman Lt General Omar Mahmood Hayat and President of Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) Dr Mehmet Glloglu at Ankara. Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkey Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi also attended the meeting.

Both sides agreed to work on a number of initiatives, including sharing of experiences and knowledge in disaster management, training of experts, joint exercises, hosting of joint conference, and high-level exchanges to intensify cooperation, bilaterally and in the wider regional context, a press release of the Pakistan Embassy in Turkey said.

Dr Mehmet Glloglu gave a comprehensive briefing about AFAD, its objectives, initiatives, projects, and plans for meeting various kinds of emergencies at home and abroad, and expressed keen desire to develop institutional linkages with the NDMA.

The NDMA chairman conveyed deep appreciation for Turkey's assistance for relief and rehabilitation operations following the 2005 earthquake and devastating 2010 floods in Pakistan. He said given the extreme vulnerability to large-scale recurring natural disasters, the Government of Pakistan had strengthened its indigenous response mechanisms to natural disasters and was progressively moving towards a proactive approach of disaster risk management, capitalizing on its own rich experiences as well as adopting best global practices.

Lt Gen Hayat visited the AFAD Training Centre in Ankara and appreciated the high quality training being provided.
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Senate Standing Committee on Commerce and Textile on Tuesday stressed the need for coordination and adopting integrated institutional approach to boost country's trade.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :Senate Standing Committee on Commerce and Textile on Tuesday stressed the need for coordination and adopting integrated institutional approach to boost country's trade.

The committee show concerned on the trade decline in textile sector and sought report from ministry of commerce to improve trade in this sector.

The ministry of commerce and textile should align their direction in the right way to give a boost to the country's export and to reduce the trade deficit, Chairman Committee Senator Shibli Faraz said while presiding over meeting of the committee held here in parliament house on Tuesday.

Shibli Faraz said "We require innovation to modernize the system for increase country's trade for boosting economy.

"We are totally depending on export of textile and raw agriculture products which will never help us for increasing the exports," he said.

He said only reducing tariffs on import of machinery or other export oriented material would not helpful in increasing exports, but the government must have to take other initiatives to make the export oriented products more competitive and more value added.

He also asked the ministry officials to work out a comprehensive and doable policy framework in this regard.

Secretary Commerce Muhammad Younas Dhaga informed the committee "We need export led growth and comprehensive policy frame work for sustainable growth in the country.

He further informed that new business avenues and a comprehensive strategy were under development which could be shared with the committee in coming meeting.

The meeting also discussed the point of public importance raised by Senator Mian Muhammad Ateeq Shaikh in the Senate regarding collapse of power looms sector in Faisalabad.

The committee directed Secretary Textile ministry Shahrukh Nusrat to work out a strategy to revive the power loom sector in Faisalabad.

Senator Nauman Wazir Khattak, Agmed Khan, Ghous Muhammad Khan Niazi, Atta ur Rehman , Nuzhat Sadiq, Secretary Commerce Muhammad Younas Dhaga and other officials of Ministry of Commerce attended the meeting.
At 7 p.m., Saturday is the Chicago Blues Super Session. We had them come two years ago and play. It was really great. Its a bunch of guys who have been playing in the Chicago area for nearly their whole career. Its really a treat when they get together. Each artist is featured  theres the keyboard player and then hell have a feature and then the guitar player. Then a guy might come up with a harmonica. They take turns coming forward and showing their stuff, Scherer said.
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The Supreme Court Tuesday directed the Shaheen Airline International (SAI) to pay monetary compensation to over 214 passengers, who were remained stranded in China for a week.

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :The Supreme Court Tuesday directed the Shaheen Airline International (SAI) to pay monetary compensation to over 214 passengers, who were remained stranded in China for a week.

A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar resumed hearing of the suo moto notice on the matter.

The apex court last week ordered the airline to bring back all the stranded passengers home by Monday.

During the course of proceedings, the CJP remarked that the passengers had suffered mental stress for remaining stranded at a Chinese airport for so many days and ordered the airline to pay monetary compensation to all of them.

The SAI chief executive officer (CEO) informed the court that the airline could pay Rs 5 million as compensation to the passengers as it had also borne their expenses in China.

To this, the CJP observed that the airline should pay Rs 100,000 each to passengers for the ordeal they had undergone.

The SAI CEO responded that he would consult the finance department, and blamed the CAA for the fiasco.

The CJP then instructed the SAI CEO to apprise the court of the airline's dispute with the CAA in writing on next date of hearing, and how much money it would pay to the passengers as compensation.

The case was adjourned till August 20.
As part of the U.S. Governments efforts to strengthen Pakistans agricultural sector, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been working with the Pakistani government and private sector since 2009 to expand the market of Pakistani mangoes globally

Islamabad, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) As part of the U.S. Governments efforts to strengthen Pakistans agricultural sector, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been working with the Pakistani government and private sector since 2009 to expand the market of Pakistani mangoes globally.

Stakeholders organized the Mango Gala in order to celebrate this long-term partnership and its many achievements. USAID/Pakistan Mission Director Jerry Bisson, Chairman of the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) Dr.

Yusuf Zafar, Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) President Ghazanfar Bilour, and Mango growers from all over the country attended the Gala. Addressing the mango sector stakeholders, Mission Director Jerry Bisson said, The U.S.

Government, through USAID, is proud to partner with the Pakistan mango sector in developing new markets, while ensuring compliance with international grading standards and export protocols, Stating that, We want to ensure that Pakistani mangoes are competitive on the international market, Mr Bisson added, We are confident that by facilitating infrastructure upgrades, introducing new technologies and promoting market opportunities we will increase exports to high-end markets, improving revenues for Pakistani mango farmers and exporters.

 The event brought together stakeholders from the public and private sectors to investigate trends and opportunities, recognize local farmers innovations in, and reaffirm USAIDs commitment towards uplifting Pakistans mango sector.

USAID launched the U.S.-Pakistan Partnership for Agricultural Market Development in February 2015 to improve the marketing capacity of four Pakistani value chains; meat, high value and off-season vegetables, mangoes, and citrus.

Since 2009, USAID has supported mango farmers in upgrading fruit processing technologies and addressing export protocols more efficiently. Under the projects grant program, USAID has provided 13 state-of-the-art mango graders.

These graders became operational in 2017 and will be utilized during the 2018 production season to grade export quality mangoes. This partnership has served as a catalyst to improve the quality, increase the quantity of agricultural produce, and promote cooperation among farmers, processers, exporters, and buyers of Pakistani agricultural products, resulting in both increased incomes and employment opportunities.
The plan of China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to conduct a joint maritime exercise in the South China Sea "is very important" to the region, Philippine Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said on Tuesday.

MANILA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :The plan of China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to conduct a joint maritime exercise in the South China Sea "is very important" to the region, Philippine Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said on Tuesday.

"It's very important that there are joint military exercises if only to prevent accidents and formilitary-to-military relations to grow so that we can talk to each other better," Cayetano told Xinhua at a press conference.

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said last week in Singapore that China and ASEAN member states will hold a joint maritime exercise in October.
Belarusian authorities on Tuesday detained at least three journalists during searches of the offices of two independent news websites over "unauthorised" access to the services of the country's state news agency.

Minsk, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :Belarusian authorities on Tuesday detained at least three journalists during searches of the offices of two independent news websites over "unauthorised" access to the services of the country's state news agency.

The editors of Tut.by, Maria Zolotova and Anna Kaltygina, as well as BelaPAN journalist Tatiana Korovenkova were detained, the Belarusian Investigative Committee said in a statement.

They are accused of "unauthorised access to computer information for reasons of personal gain," it added.

The statement said a criminal case was opened after state news agency BelTA complained of their failure to pay subscription fees.

If found guilty, they face up to two years in prison.

Tut.by said the editor of its "Society" section Ulyana Boboyed was also detained and added that "several other" employees were interrogated.

Authorities said the websites made more than 15,000 "unauthorised connections" to BelTa, without the state news outlet's "knowledge or consent." "As a result of the committed crimes, BelTa suffered significant harm" and its "business reputation was harmed," the Investigative Committee said.

In July a Minsk court sentenced independent journalist Dzmitry Halko to four years in prison for allegedly assaulting a police officer.

Belarus is ranked 155th out of 180 in this year's Reporters Without Borders world press freedom index.

President Alexander Lukashenko has ruled the ex-Soviet country, which shares borders with three EU member states, with an iron fist since 1994.
The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is promoting global stability by connecting different countries, cultures and peoples spiritually and materialistically, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said.

BELGRADE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is promoting global stability by connecting different countries, cultures and peoples spiritually and materialistically, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said.

"From the very beginning, we considered BRI as an initiative for promoting peace," he said during an interview with Chinese media.

This year marks the fifth anniversary of the first announcement of BRI, which has received positive responses from various countries and regions, including Serbia.

"I have said on public occasions that Serbia has benefited greatly from the initiative," the president said.

Under the BRI framework, Serbia and China carried out large-scale infrastructure projects that have driven the Serbian economy and created better living conditions for Serbians, he said.

Vucic mentioned the Smederevo steel plant, which was acquired by China's HBIS Group in April 2016, as an example of successful large-scale infrastructure projects executed in cooperation with Chinese entities.

The plant, once on the brink of bankruptcy, has become the second largest exporter in Serbia and has saved at least 5,000 jobs under the management of the Chinese experts.

"We saw great benefits in cooperation with China, and we hope that China can see its own interests in the cooperation with Serbia," Vucic said.

On the 40th anniversary of China's reform and opening up, Vucic said that in the past 40 years, China's decisions have been effectively presented in front of the world, and people worldwide have started to understand China's politics and opening-up policies.
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Denmark's largest lender Danske Bank on Tuesday said it was complying with Danish prosecutors' investigation into long-standing allegations that it was involved in laundering $8.3 billion through its Estonian branch.

Stockholm, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :Denmark's largest lender Danske Bank on Tuesday said it was complying with Danish prosecutors' investigation into long-standing allegations that it was involved in laundering $8.3 billion through its Estonian branch.

State Prosecutor for Serious Economic and International Crime (SOIK), Morten Niels Jakobsen, said Monday Danske Bank was being investigated and prosecutors would examine whether charges would be pressed.

"Due to the very serious nature and scope of the case, we have followed it for a long time," Jakobsen said in a statement.

He added that the case "has long been highly prioritised" and that "several police reports have been received against Danske Bank in this case." "We have a good and constructive dialogue on an ongoing basis with the authorities, and we will be at the service of SOIK if it needs further clarification on specific matters," Flemming Pristed, Danske Bank's chief counsel told AFP in an e-mail.

Danske Bank has been at the centre of a financial scandal since Danish daily Berlingske last year claimed that it had been behind the laundering of around $3.9 billion of dirty money from a string of Eastern European countries.

But after receiving bank statements from 20 companies with accounts in Danske Bank's Estonian branch between 2007 and 2015, the paper reported in early July that the real figure was actually more than twice that.

- 'Complex network' - The bank statements from 20 companies at Danske Bank are linked to a fraud case exposed by the Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, who was jailed for revealing high-ranking Russian officials involvement in stealing massive tax payments from several companies, including the investment fund Hermitage Capital.

Magnitsky died in 2009 aged 37 after being held for a year and denied medical care.

Bill Browder, CEO of Hermitage Capital and Magnitsky's former client who was kicked out of Russia for exposing corruption at the largest state owned companies, has spent nine years tracking money laundering in the nation.

He said the money was laundered at Danske Bank's Estonian branch after travelling through "a complex network of sham companies and money laundering banks" in Moldova, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Ukraine.

Danske Bank has acknowledged that its control over the Estonian branch has not been good enough and launched its own investigation into the matter last year. The results were expected in September.

The group finds itself in the company of other major European banks that have been ensnared in massive laundering scandals in recent years including France's BNP Paribas and Germany's Deutsche Bank.
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Nigeria has repatriated at least 9,438 of its nationals trapped in Libya while efforts are ongoing to bring back everyone willing to return to their country, according to an official involved in the repatriation process.

LAGOS , Nigeria, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Aug, 2018 ) :Nigeria has repatriated at least 9,438 of its nationals trapped in Libya while efforts are ongoing to bring back everyone willing to return to their country, according to an official involved in the repatriation process.

"So far, about 9,438 migrants have been repatriated from Libya in collaboration and support of the International Migration Organization (IOM)," Abike Dabiri-Erewa, a presidential aide on foreign relations and diaspora, said in a statement late Sunday.

"Those that were brought back are being profiled and enrolled in various technical and vocational training centers with relevant agencies and nongovernmental organizations," she added.

The official said the repatriation, ordered by the president, began shortly after footages emerged on the internet of some of the migrants narrating their ordeals in the war-torn North African country and urging the Nigerian government to bring them home.

Dabiri-Erewa said the Nigerian mission in Tripoli has traced another 116 of its nationals to a detention center in Zawiya and has now processed their repatriation to the country.

"Regrettably, she said 24 of them have refused to come back insisting they must get to Europe," she said, appealing once again to "Nigerian youths to avail themselves the opportunities abound in the country as against risking their lives to search for a non-existing and deadly greener pastures abroad."Hundreds of Africans -- including Nigerians -- have died recent years trying to cross the Mediterranean sea through Libya in search of better opportunities in Europe.
Lima, Aug 6 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 7th Aug, 2018 ) :Former Peruvian president Alberto Fujimori, who was pardoned last year while serving a long jail sentence for human rights abuses, has been admitted to hospital with heart problems, aides said Monday.

"He was rushed to hospital with heart arrhythmia," which is an irregular beating of the heart, one of his aides said late Sunday, adding that Fujimori -- who just turned 80 -- would also undergo cancer screening for the lungs and tongue.

The ex-president has had a number of operations as part of a long-running battle with tongue cancer.

Fujimori, who was pardoned by presidential decree last December, ruled Peru with an iron fist from 1990 until 2000.

He was 12 years into a 25-year jail sentence handed down to him after a court found him responsible for ordering two massacres by death squads between 1991 and 1992.

The pardon, issued by then-president Pedro Pablo Kuczynski before he was himself brought down by a corruption scandal, triggered a wave of protests by human rights organizations and by victims of Fujimori's crackdown.
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Madrid, Aug 7 (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th Aug, 2018 ) :Spain's defence ministry said Tuesday it has opened an investigation after one of its Eurofighter jets accidentally fired a missile in the skies over Estonia during a routine training mission.

"A Spanish Eurofighter based in Lithuania accidentally fired a missile without causing any harm," the ministry said in a statement, adding that the incident happened Tuesday afternoon "in an area of southwest Estonia authorised for this type of exercise".

"The air-to-air missile has not hit any aircraft. The defence ministry has opened an investigation to clarify the exact cause of the incident," it added.

Two Spanish Eurofighter jets, and two French Mirage 2000 jets, were taking part in the training exercise, the ministry said. After the incident the jets returned an air base in Siauliai in northern Lithuania where they are based.
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In a handwritten letter sent on Sunday, Pope Francis applauds the Chilean bishops efforts to reflect on their failure to listen to victims of clerical sex abuse.

By Devin Watkins

Pope Francis has praised the bishops of Chile for their decisive efforts against clerical sex abuse following a recent meeting.

In a handwritten letter sent on Sunday, the Pope says Chiles bishops have come up with realistic and concrete measures against the abuse crisis gripping the Catholic Church in the country.

He thanked the President of the Chilean Bishops Conference for the edifying example of a united Church community. The Pope also expressed his appreciation for the Chilean bishops reflections on their failure to respond to a clerical sex abuse crisis.

Concrete response



In his letter released by the Chilean Bishops Conference, Pope Francis said he was impressed by the work of reflection, discernment, and decisions carried out to produce a document, entitled Declaration, Decisions, and Commitments of the Chilean Bishops Conference (in Spanish).

The Pope called their decisions realistic and concrete and said they will be a decisive help in confronting the crisis.

Pope Francis said he was most impressed by the example of an Episcopal community united in the shepherding of God's faithful, holy people. He called their example edifying and said it builds the Church.

May the Lord reward you abundantly for this communal and pastoral effort, the Pope wrote.

Bishop Santiago Silva, to whom the Popes letter was addressed, thanked Pope Francis and said his words comfort us today and encourage us on this path of correction, healing, and reparation.

Promise to assist prosecutors



Chiles bishops met last week to discuss the sex abuse crisis facing the Catholic Church and their failed response to it.

In their joint document, the bishops recognize their failures and omissions and promise to assist prosecutors investigating allegations of sex abuse.

Asking for forgiveness, Chiles bishops said they had failed to help and accompany victims who had suffered grave sins and injustices committed by priests and clergy.
As the number of victims of the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that hit Indoniesian islands of Lombok and Bali rises, Pope Francis condolence message sent to the Church and people of Indonesia on Monday raises spirits.

By Francesca Merlo

The number of deaths due to the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that devastated the islands of Lombok and Bali in Indonesia, currently around 105, is still rising along with the casualties and the desperate need for assistance.

Wanry Wabung, in charge of information, protocol and consular affairs at the Indonesian Embassy to the Holy See spoke to Vatican News Stefano Leszczynski about the aftermath and the situation as it stands in Indonesia.

Listen to Wanry Wabung

Pope Francis encouragement

Pope Francis sent a message of condolence on Monday to the people of Indonesia. We asked Wabung what the Popes message means to the country and its inhabitants.

Wabung said that the people of Indonesia are humbled by Pope Francis message. It has been an encouragement to all assisting parties, from volunteers to national services. He said their spirits have been lifted and they feel supported through the aftermath of this tragedy. He said that through this act, Pope Francis has reflected the great relationship that Indonesia have with the Holy See.

Cry for international aid

Wabung said Indonesia is appealing to the international community for humanitarian aid. He says that President Joko Widodo has asked authorities to help with survivors. With over 13,000 houses destroyed, there is a strong need for basic housing equipment such as tents and mattresses.

The Indonesian Red Cross has also called for International help with blood donations. Wabung said there is a desperate need for blood as the number of casualties rises.
A Yemeni child suspected of cholera is being treated in a hospital in Hodeidah.

The continuing airstrikes by the Saudi-led coalition on Yemens crucially strategic port city of Hodeidah is worsening the cholera threat with diminishing access to clean drinking water, sanitation facilities and health systems.

Over a year after cholera broke out in Yemen, killing more than 2,000 people, the disease is back and spreading fast in the Houthi-held port city of Hoeidah, the United Nations has warned.

Airstrikes on Hodeidah



The Red Sea coast city, responsible for more than 70 percent of all humanitarian aid and food imports to Yemen, is a vital lifeline for a country already teetering on the brink of famine. It has been a target of continued air strikes by the Saudi-led coalition to regain control of the city.

To mitigate the risks, the Ministry of Health and the UN launched a week-long cholera oral vaccination campaign on Saturday, targeting the most vulnerable 500,000 women, children and men in and around Hodeidah.

Other mitigating measures implemented by humanitarian organizations include the continued provision of safe drinking water and sanitation facilities.

The Yemen conflict was sparked by the Shia-led Houthi rebels taking control of Yemen's capital Sanaa in 2014, which sent the internationally recognized government of Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi fleeing to exile. At the request of Hadi, a Saudi-led Sunni coalition, with the backing of the United States, has been at war with the Iran-backed Houthis since 2015 to restore the government.

Hodeidah was one of the worst-hit cities in Yemens cholera outbreak last year  the worst in the world at its height.

On Thursday, the main hospital in Hudaydah was hit during an airstrike, further compounding the dire health situation in the city.

88,000 reached with cholera vaccine



Fighting is still raging across much of Yemen and the escalating humanitarian crisis is the most acute of anywhere in the world this year.

As of Monday, about 88,000 thousand people had been reached with the cholera vaccine. This is the second of three phases of the campaign led by the World Health Organization and the UN Childrens Fund (UNICEF).

The first campaign one was administered in Aden and the final round of vaccines will be administered in other identified hotspot areas.

Grant Philip Leaity, UNICEFs Deputy Director for Emergency Programmes, explained how Yemens war is exacerbating the cholera threat.

Listen to Grant Philip Leaity, UNICEFs Deputy Director for Emergency Programmes

Leaity said that cholera is very frequent in conflict situations because of breakdown in access to clean drinking water, health systems and sanitary facilities. He said cholera vaccination in such situations is difficult to carry out, but it is part of an overall set of preventive measures.

The UNICEF official said that In Yemen they are severely limited by the conflict situation. Over the past 3 days, he said, they have been trying to reach out to half a million people, inthe second phase of the the vaccination campaign. The third phase is planned in parts of north and south of of the war-torn country.

Leaity noted that Yemeni children are scared of bombing and enchanges of fire between factions. All they are looking for is peace, security of their families, thier schools and they want their future.

(Source: UN News)
Non-government organizations and researchers are calling on the Lao Government to ensure transparency in its investigations on Lao populations affected by massive flooding from a breach in a hydropower dam wall that left more than two dozen people dead last month in southern Laos.

The southern Lao township of Attapeu, bore the brunt of a wall of water after the July 23 collapse of a portion of the Xe Pian Xe Namnoy hydropower dam. In addition to the dead many people are missing, with at least 6,000 displaced by the torrent.

Keith Barney, a specialist in environmental research and natural resource policy in South East Asia at Australias National University, says when faced with disasters and other tragedies governments will move to close down sources of information.

"The tendency in many cases when faced with difficult issues or external criticism is to cover up and shut down and block out the flow of information, and there are indications that some of that is underway, but this will be certainly raising significant questions and criticisms of the strategy," Barney told VOA.

Satellite images show Attapeu lying on a bend of the river with a pre-crisis network of roads, but a later image shows the flooded area as a brown mass of mud with few structures left recognizable.

Barney says, "These are very vulnerable people. Many of them ethnic minorities that have already been significantly affected from the original dam construction process, either through the downstream impact or through resettlement and this will just be adding on to their vulnerability in the coming year."

The 410-megawatt Xe Pian-Xe Nam Noy hydropower dam near the Cambodian border is part of a series of dams Laos has planned or built to bolster its economy as the "light bulb of South East Asia" through sales of electricity to neighboring countries.

Non-governmental organizations have been vocal opponents of Laos rush to hydro development without adequate assurances over the social and environmental impacts from such projects.

The Xe-Pian-Xe Nam Noy region feeds into the Sekong River, considered "one of the Mekongs most important tributaries," according to the non-governmental group Save the Mekong.

The Sekongs waters and other smaller tributaries are home "to tens of thousands of people from at least 20 different ethnic groups, all of whom rely on wild capture fisheries and surrounding forests and fertile lands" for food, according to the group's statement.

The coalition of NGOs says much of Laos and the Mekong are "vulnerable to such disasters and to broader environmental threats due to 11 large hydropower dams on the lower Mekong mainstream, and 120 tributary dams planned by 2014.

"This disaster has amplified calls from within Laos to reconsider the countrys heavy investment in hydropower, and to strengthen the enforcement of national laws to ensure greater accountability from foreign investors," Save the Mekong said.

The group said the hydrological and water quality changes had "decimated local fisheries and villagers living along the Xe Pian River" and who had received "no compensation for the loss of their livelihoods."

Barney says the collapse also raises questions over construction standards on the projects. "I guess its a warning over the adequacy of the actual dam construction process, but also in terms of a broader rethinking of the headline strategy into hydropower that Laos and the other regional governments seem to be following. So how the Lao government responds will be very critical," he said.

Aid has poured in to assist Laos with recovery and redevelopment from the tragedy. South Korea, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Australia have provided funding and resources for the effort.

The intergovernmental Mekong River Commission, in a statement to VOA, said the commission is "working to develop short- and medium-term programs to support Laos and other countries on dam safety in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers."

The programs would cover post failure dam assessment and analyses, reviews of dam construction, external reviews and establishing a national dam safety program.
Financial analysts at a leading credit rating agency have reported that last months election has increased the risk of economic decline in Cambodia.

The analysis by Moodys, included in a report by the Financial Times on Monday, suggests that the allegations of fraud surrounding the July 29 general election, which saw Prime Minister Hun Sens Cambodian Peoples Party claim all 125 seats in parliament, had increased the risk of a drawback in international financing.

The Moodys analysts were quoted as saying that if international donors withdrew aid assistance or imposed economic sanctions, they would hinder financing for the [Cambodian] government and balance of payments and would weigh on real [gross domestic product] growth.

They added that such moves could have a significant negative impact on Cambodias sovereign debt.

Aid and foreign direct investment inflows have helped finance the large current-account deficit ... and have bolstered foreign exchange reserves, which were at a record high of $12.25 billion in June 2018 (around 55 percent of 2017 GDP), the analysts told the Financial Times.

Strong growth in garments and footwear exports, which accounted for about 73 percent of all goods exports and 36 percent of GDP in 2016, is largely underpinned by Cambodias preferential tariff access with the US and EU, they added.

But government spokesman Phay Siphan dismissed the analysis, saying Cambodians had fairly exercised their democratic rights.

The election is the decision of Cambodians. This decision has been made for the interest of Cambodians, who have sovereignty to ensure their destiny. Its not an election to serve the European Union, the United States, Vietnam, or China, he said.

We are ready to [serve] for everything in the name of the government that was borne by the people. We will not make our nation to be servants of others. We have been well prepared, he said.

However, about three-quarters of Cambodias export market, U.S., Australian and E.U. Institutions account for about 43 percent of the net official development assistance to Cambodia, amounting to about 8 percent of total
Prime Minister Hun Sen on Monday has sworn to die if the voter turnout numbers for last months general election were found to have been manipulated.

The premier made the comments amid criticism from the international community and former opposition party over allegations of voter intimidation and possible fraud.

The ruling Cambodian Peoples Party won a landslide victory, claiming more than three-quarters of the votes cast and all 125 seats in parliament.

Speaking to a group of athletes and trainers in Phnom Penh, Hun Sen said: You dare make accusations that the voter turnout was inflated and people were intimidated? Would you dare to swear by it? If you dare, you can respond through Facebook now! Now I would like to make a vow. I swear to die, as long as the devil wants me to die.

He defended the election data provided by the National Election Committee, which showed that about 82 percent of registered voters cast a ballot on election day.

Hun Sen also goaded Sam Rainsy, the former leader of the countrys main opposition party who led an election boycott campaign, to join him in the death pact.

The Cambodian prime minister plan to give a speech at the United Nations in September and will respond to the claims that the election was not free or fair.

Rainsy responded to Hun Sen on his Facebook page, saying he would take him up on the challenge only after Hun Sen agreed to a recount.

The figure that the CPP and the National Election Committee presented was a lie; mostly about the voter turnout rate, which was inflated, he said.

Lao Mong Hay, an independent political analyst, said making such oaths was a distraction from the pressing issues of the day.

He is just swearing but has done nothing. People voted for him [Hun Sen] to lead the country, not for swearing, he said.
Alcoa Corp on Monday asked the U.S. Commerce Department to exclude its purchases of a type of aluminum from Canada that is used to make cans from tariffs the Trump administration levied on aluminum and steel in June.

According to documents posted to its website, Alcoa said no U.S. aluminum producer can meet its specification needs and quality requirements for rolling slabs used at its Warrick, Indiana, plant to produce aluminum for can manufacturers.

Alcoa's applications for tariff waivers on 40,000 metric tons of rolling slab is the start of an effort to roll back tariffs on Canadian aluminum imports with more applications for exemptions from the No. 1 U.S. aluminum producer planned, a company official said.

In one of its opening shots in what is becoming a global trade war, the United States set a 25 percent tariff on steel imports and a 10 percent tariff on aluminum imports from Canada, Mexico and the European Union in June.

Alcoa said in July it will incur as much as $14 million a month in extra expenses, mainly from tariffs levied on aluminum imported from Canada, its biggest supplier.

"Even if all the curtailed smelting capacity in the states was back online and producing metal, the United States would still need to import the majority of its aluminum, and most of it from Canada. We believe that the Section 232 tariffs should be removed from Canada and other fair-trading partners," said Tim Reyes, president of Alcoa Aluminum, one of the company's three business units.

Alcoa Chief Executive Roy Harvey told investors in July that the aluminum producer was in "active discussions" with the Trump administration, the Commerce Department and members of Congress about the elimination of tariffs or getting an exception for Canadian aluminum.

Alcoa on Monday filed five applications for one-year exclusions from Section 232 tariffs on imports of "primary aluminum alloyed slab" that it says is not available from any other U.S. manufacturer.
China appears poised to fill the gap in Iran left by French automakers who closed their Iranian operations before the reimposition of U.S. sanctions on Tehran.

The Chinese move could open yet another dispute between Washington and Beijing, adding to the acrimony between the two, which are locked in an escalating trade dispute.

European automakers



French automaker Renault, which had an eight percent share of the Iranian automotive market, the 12th largest in the World, announced last month that it would join more than 100 international companies that have pulled out of Iran to comply with U.S. sanctions, reimposed beginning Tuesday, despite the fact Renault has no operations in the United States.

Peugeot announced its departure in June, it had a 34 percent market share in Iran, selling about 500,000 cars a year.

German automaker Daimler has also announced it has "suspended [its] activities in Iran, which were anyway very limited, until further notice according to applicable sanctions.

President Trump's decision in May to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal, signed by his predecessor Barack Obama, in which Tehran agreed to nuclear curbs in return for sanctions relief, has paved the way for the restoration of unilateral American economic penalties on Iran beginning Tuesday.

The U.S. sanctions come in two phases, the next phase kicks in on November 4. While ratcheting up pressure on Tehran, the sanctions are worsening rifts with European allies and other world powers.

First phase sanctions



The first phase of U.S. sanctions prohibit any transactions with Iran involving dollar bank notes, gold, precious metals, aluminum, steel, commercial passenger aircraft, shipping and Iranian seaports. The Trump administration blames Iran for fomenting instability in the Middle East and encouraging terrorism.

In a statement, Monday Trump repeated his description of the 2015 nuclear deal as a horrible, one sided agreement. He said the Iranian government faces a choice: Either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

For Renault to explicitly express their desire to comply with U.S. law, even though they do not have any existing American operations, suggests that even the prospect of future U.S. business is far more enticing than anything they currently have in Iran, said David Ibsen of United Against Nuclear Iran, an advocacy group chaired by former U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman.

Renault has said it will increase operations in Africa to try to offset what it loses by exiting Iran.

State-owned and private auto companies currently assembling or importing Chinese models have a nearly 10 percent share of the Iranian market, which analysts say will likely expand rapidly in the wake of the French departure. Chinese enterprises currently command a 50 percent share of auto parts imported into Iran.

China's strategy

China has made no formal announcement of an intention to expand its auto trade in Iran. But the al-Monitor news site reported Iran Khodro, the countrys largest car manufacturer and assembler of foreign cars, recently told its salesmen to promote to customers Chinas H30 Cross, made by Dongfeng Fengshen, as a replacement for Renaults Tondar 90.

Other Chinese car manufacturers present in Iran include Chery and Brilliance, whose H330, assembled in Iran by Saipa, is among the top 10 best-selling cars in the country.

Chinas ambassador to Tehran, Pang Sen, met Monday with influential lawmaker Alaeddin Boroujerd and reiterated Beijings opposition to U.S. sanctions on Iran. According to the Tehran Times, the Chinese envoy said closer cooperation between Tehran and Beijing would help neutralize the impact of the sanctions.

Expected impact

In a briefing for reporters Monday in Washington, senior U.S. administration officials didnt directly address Chinas auto trade with Iran, but asked specifically about China, they said they remained confident U.S. diplomatic and economic pressure on Beijing would have an impact and already had, they suggested, considering the dire economic plight Iran has found itself in since the reimposition of sanctions was announced.

If the sanctions were not going to be effective, I dont think you would have seen the trajectory of Irans economy over the last 90 days. I mean, it would have been the opposite, if China were going to rescue them, said one of the officials, who undertook the briefing on the conditions of anonymity.

But China has rebuffed President Trumps efforts to persuade Beijing to cut Iranian oil imports, Bloomberg reported four days ago. But U.S. officials said the Chinese had agreed not to increase purchases of Iranian crude, although last month China lifted monthly oil imports from the country by 26 percent. China is the worlds top crude oil buyer and Irans biggest customer.
The statue of the unnamed Confederate soldier has stood since 1909 in front of the courthouse in Louisiana's East Feliciana Parish, hands resting on his rifle looking down on the flow of lawyers, jurors and defendants going into the white columned building.

Ronnie Anderson, an African-American man charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, illegal possession of a stolen firearm, and speeding, was one such defendant and the statue gave him cause for concern.

"It's just intimidating to walk into a courthouse that's supposed to be a place of equality, fair justice and to see this monument that made me feel like ... I don't stand a chance,'' Anderson said.

Anderson wants his case to be moved to another parish without such a memorial; his motion to change venue argues he can't get a fair trial in the same place where a "symbol of oppression and racial intolerance'' stands.

Confederate flags and monuments - long a part of the Southern landscape - have come under renewed scrutiny following the 2015 shooting by Dylann Roof of nine black churchgoers in South Carolina and the 2017 deadly white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Supporters say the statues are a part of history honoring their ancestors; detractors say they, in effect, honor slavery and in many cases were erected during the Jim Crow era to intimidate black people and bolster white supremacy.

Confederate monuments dot the lawns of many Southern courthouses. In addition to the one in East Feliciana, a database compiled by the Southern Poverty Law Center lists 11 more in front of Louisiana courthouses.

Ben Cohen, a lawyer with the New Orleans-based Promise of Justice Initiative that advocates for reforming Louisiana's criminal justice system, says so far it's rare for defendants to use the legal argument Anderson is making.

Cohen represented a defendant appealing a conviction in a Caddo Parish murder case in which a prospective juror objected to the Confederate flag in front of the courthouse.

The state Supreme Court ultimately upheld the conviction but Cohen said he anticipates this argument being used more often.

"I think people are looking at these monuments in a new light,'' he said.

Officials in Caddo Parish voted last October to remove theirs. They concluded that citizens would be better served if it was not in front of the courthouse "where justice is to be administered fairly and impartially.'' A lawsuit stalled the move, but was recently dismissed by a federal judge.

The East Feliciana Parish District Attorney, Sam D'Aquilla says its "ridiculous'' to think a statue would affect the fairness of Anderson's trial and questions why an out-of-town defendant and lawyer are stirring up trouble in the primarily rural parish, located about 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Baton Rouge. Anderson is from Plaquemines Parish to the southeast and was driving through when he was pulled over. His lawyer, Niles Haymer is based in Baton Rouge.

D'Aquilla said he doesn't have an opinion on the statue but regardless of whether it's there the people inside strive for colorblind justice. He also points out the racial diversity of the elected officials across the parish.

"All the elected officials that I know of, your judges, your clerk of court, your sheriff, we all strive for racial equality. And we work hard for that,'' he said.

This is not the first time the East Feliciana Parish statue has come under scrutiny.

In 2016, retired physician Paul Jackson Jr. asked the parish to move the statue to a local Confederate cemetery. He says having the statue on the courthouse grounds signals that the Confederacy was for justice: "But it wasn't. They're for slavery obviously.''

His suggestion was debated during a parish meeting and ultimately rejected. Jackson said he lost two friends over the issue. He said he supports Anderson's change-of-venue motion.

Lataya Johnson, who lives and works in the parish, sympathized with Anderson's argument and dismissed the idea that most people don't pay attention to the statue.

"You walk by and you think about it. Because if you're African-American do you look at it and say, 'My fate is already destined because of this statue ... Judgment has already been made because of this statue,''' she said.

But parish president Louis Kent said Anderson is "very mistaken'' in believing he will not get a fair trial in East Feliciana.

"I have been in this parish all my life. We don't have a race problem. We never have and we're not going to create one,'' he said.

Anderson's lawyer, Niles Haymer, says he's already heard from other lawyers interested in filing similar motions, and he may be filing the same motion for another client. For him, this case could become a catalyst for change. A hearing on the motion is expected Tuesday.

"I feel like if we flood the criminal justice system with these motions, they're going to have to deal with this monument issue,'' he said.
Lawyers for former El Salvador President Tony Saca say he will plead guilty to corruption charges in return for a lighter sentence.

Attorney Lisandro Quintanilla says Salvadoran law allows for a more lenient punishment in view of a guilty plea.

The 53-year-old Saca was arrested in October 2016 and accused of diverting $301 million in government funds. He had faced up to 25 years in prison if convicted.

Under the deal, prosecutors will ask for Saca to get 10 years  five for embezzlement and five more for money laundering.

Prosecutors asked the court Tuesday for the shorter sentences and an abbreviated trial process skipping the evidentiary phase for the ex-president and three associates also charged in the case.
Former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort's right-hand man testified at trial on Tuesday that Manafort instructed him not to tell their firm's bookkeeper about payments from accounts in Cyprus that held millions of dollars in earnings from consulting work for pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine.

Rick Gates, the U.S. government's star witness in Manafort's trial on tax fraud and bank fraud charges, told a federal court jury in Alexandria, Virginia, that there were hundreds of emails showing Manafort approved payments out of the Cypriot accounts.

Gates' testimony on the trial's sixth day was part of the prosecution's effort to prove that Manafort was responsible for financial maneuverings that he and other witnesses have testified include filing false tax returns and failing to report foreign bank accounts.

Gates, Manafort's long-time business partner, is expected to face a tough cross-examination later on Tuesday by defense lawyers in the first trial to arise from Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election. The Kremlin denies election meddling.

While outside the scope of the trial, Mueller is also investigating whether Trump campaign members coordinated with Moscow, an allegation President Donald Trump denies.

Manafort's defense is seeking to pin the blame on Gates himself, who has acknowledged embezzling from Manafort's firm.

Manafort, 69, has pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of bank fraud, tax fraud and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts.

Gates, who also was an official on Trump's campaign, pleaded guilty in February to lying to investigators and conspiring to defraud the United States and agreed to cooperate.

On Tuesday, Gates also testified about "modified" invoices for payments to U.S. vendors that he said he created at Manafort's request. The invoices were created to meet document requirements of a bank, Gates said, adding that the payments were legitimate.

He testified about a complex scheme in which earnings from Manafort's political work in Ukraine would be paid by Ukrainian businessmen using companies in Cyprus to other Cyprus-based companies controlled by Manafort.

Prosecutors showed contracts laying out that Manafort would be paid $4 million a year in quarterly installments of $1 million, all channeled through Cyprus. The funds were logged as loans, but Gates testified they were in fact compensation to Manafort.

Money from the Ukraine work dried up after pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych was forced from power in 2014, Gates testified. A $1 million payment for work in 2014 was "significantly past due" and "Mr. Manafort was quite upset the money had not been sent," Gates told the court.

Manafort's Kiev-based aide Konstantin Kilimnik was able to collect $500,000, Gates said, but "to my knowledge it was never paid in full." Kilimnik was indicted in the Mueller investigation in June.

Gates, 46, testified on Monday that he helped falsify Manafort's tax returns and hide his foreign bank accounts. He testified that he has met with prosecutors about 20 times. It is unclear what other information he may have provided to Mueller's team.

Gates admitted on Monday that he did steal money through inflated expense reports, but he said it was hundreds of thousands of dollars, not millions as defense lawyers stated.

Manafort's lawyers are expected to use the theft to try to undermine Gates' credibility as a witness. They also are likely to bring up his making false statements to investigators.

One issue that could be a challenge for prosecutors on Tuesday is the extent to which they are allowed to admit evidence about Manafort's Ukraine work and the oligarchs who paid him. On Monday, U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis repeatedly clashed with prosecutors about the relevance of such testimony and once again urged them to speed things along.
A feud between New York's governor and the National Rifle Association is escalating, with Governor Andrew Cuomo saying it's "too bad" the NRA could be in financial trouble because his state pressured financial institutions to cut ties with the gun group.

"Too bad. You violated the law," Cuomo told CNN, while also adding that "it's not a defense to say, 'Well, I was committing illegal activity, but I was making money from it, and now I'm upset that I lost the revenue.'"

In an amended version of a federal lawsuit filed in May, the NRA claims it lost insurance coverage after the state's enforcement actions against companies underwriting an NRA-branded insurance program called "Carry Guard," which provides liability insurance for policyholders involved in shooting incidents.

The lawsuit said the Cuomo administration was persuading other insurers to avoid doing business with the NRA. But Cuomo countered that Carry Guard is "designed for people who carry weapons, and the insurance policy essentially insured them for intentional bad acts, intentional wrongdoing."

Cuomo said he sent a letter to other governors Monday, urging them to end the sale and marketing of the Carry Guard program in their states. "And if they think New York hurt their pocketbook, let's see what happens when the other states also join in," Cuomo told National Public Radio.

Cuomo also told CNN that he pleads "guilty" to accusations that he has long opposed the gun group.

"I believe the NRA represents an extremist group. I believe they've been counterproductive for gun owners in this country. I believe their politics suit them to stop any commonsense gun reform," he continued.

The lawsuit asks the court to have the Cuomo administration stop its practices against the NRA, claiming that the policies have affected its finances to the point that it can't maintain its offices, operate educational programs, or hold rallies and other political events.
Coming off more than two decades of authoritarian rule, roughly three-fourths of Gambians approve of new President Adama Barrow's leadership and express confidence in the election process, a new Gallup poll finds.

The poll was released Tuesday.

Barrow took office in January 2017, a month after he was elected to succeed Yahya Jammeh. The former president  who had led Gambia since 1994, including the first two years as head of a military ruling council  left under pressure from the regional Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and now lives in exile in Equatorial Guinea.

Jammeh's 22-year dictatorship included arbitrary arrests, detention and extrajudicial killings. Barrow has begun reforming the judicial system, freeing political prisoners and, in February, declaring a moratorium on the death penalty. His government also has set up a Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission looking into human rights violations that occurred during Jammeh's tenure.

Struggles with poverty

In Barrow's inaugural address, he said his administration had "inherited an economy in decline."

The tiny country  dependent on agriculture, tourism and remittances  has wrestled with high unemployment and high poverty rates. Almost half (48 percent) of Gambia's roughly 2 million people are poor, a proportion that climbs to almost 70 percent in rural areas, the World Bank reports.

Jammeh is believed to have looted hundreds of millions of dollars from Gambia's treasury.

In a news release on the poll, Gallup pointed out that Gambia's gross domestic product is less than $500 per capita, among the lowest of ECOWAS' 15 members  and less than half that of Senegal, which surrounds the country on three sides.

Yet Gambia's living conditions are improving, nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of respondents told Gallup. Gambians' optimism about the standard of living was the highest among the dozen ECOWAS countries surveyed.

But the polling indicates that Barrow and his administration "must not put too much stock in this goodwill," Gallup said in the release.

Gambian respondents acknowledged difficulties in obtaining the basics. Most have had trouble, at times in the past year, affording food (62 percent) or adequate lodging (54 percent). Senegal has lower rates of such hardship (51 percent and 41 percent, respectively).

A unifying gesture?

Independent journalist Omar Walley told VOA that Barrow built goodwill by sending his vice president to pay respects to the Jammeh family after the former president's mother died July 28. The body of Hajia Asombi Bojang was returned from Equatorial Guinea to Gambia for burial this weekend. The ex-president did not accompany the body.

Walley told VOA that the ex-president did not allow exiled Gambians to be buried in their homeland. He said Barrow's courteous gesture "has brought unity to the country."

Barrow also shuffled his cabinet in June, days after three people died in clashes with police during protests over sand mining and its environmental effects. The shift followed the resignation of the head of police, Reuters reported.

Barrow is the country's third president since it gained independence from the British in 1965.

VOA Africa Division's Peter Clottey contributed to this report.
Thousands of people made homeless by a powerful earthquake on Indonesian resort islands looked for shelter Monday night as rescue workers continued to search for the missing and said the death toll of 98 would likely rise.

Residents who lost their homes sheltered in makeshift tents while most tourists were able to evacuate Monday.

Sunday's quake, recorded at magnitude 6.9 by the U.S. Geological Survey (revised down from 7.0), struck at a depth of 10.5 kilometers in the northern part of Lombok, triggering a brief tsunami warning. It was also felt on the neighboring Gili Islands as well as Bali, Sumbawa and parts of East Java.

Much of the evacuation efforts were focused on the tiny Gili Islands, three vacation islands near Lombok. Tourists lined up on the small beaches Monday waiting for the boats that would take them to the larger Lombok Island.

Officials said more than 2,000 people were evacuated from the Gili Islands on Monday.

Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a spokesman for the country's National Disaster Mitigation Agency, told reporters Monday that most of those killed and injured were on the northern side of Lombok, which sustained massive damage.

Officials said most of the victims were killed by falling rubble, and more than 200 people have been seriously injured. They said thousands of houses were damaged in the quake.

Nugroho said the death toll is expected to rise as search and rescue crews reach more affected areas. He said no foreign tourists are among the dead.

Electricity was knocked out in several parts of the city, and patients were evacuated from the main hospital.

Singapore Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam, who was in the Lombok town of Mataram at the time of the quake, posted pictures of the destruction on his Facebook page and said his 10th-floor hotel room shook violently and walls cracked.

"It was quite impossible to stand up. Heard screams," he wrote. "Came out, and made my way down a staircase, while building was still shaking. Power went out for a while. Lots of cracks, fallen doors."

Australia's Minister for Home Affairs, Peter Dutton, was also on Lombok. He said he was knocked to the floor of his room on the 12th floor of a hotel.

Mutya Aryani, a local resident in Sumbawa, told VOA by phone, "Most people were at the mosque when the earthquake happened. People ran to the street and a large field outside the mosque. We're still traumatized by the previous earthquake a few days ago, which was also quite large."

Last week, 17 people were killed when a 6.4-magnitude earthquake hit Lombok.

Like Bali, Lombok is known for its pristine beaches and mountains.

Indonesia is prone to earthquakes due to its location on the Pacific "Ring of Fire,'' an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Ocean Basin. In December 2004, a magnitude-9.1 earthquake off Sumatra island triggered a tsunami that killed 230,000 people in a dozen countries.
The United States has reimposed economic sanctions on Iran that were originally put in place to pressure the country to limit its nuclear program and later lifted under a 2015 international agreement.

President Donald Trump has been a frequent critic of that deal and withdrew the United States from the agreement three months ago, setting in motion the reimposition of the sanctions effective at midnight Monday.

Earlier in the day he assailed Iran as "a murderous dictatorship that has continued to spread bloodshed, violence and chaos."

Trump said the new sanctions target the Islamic Republic's automotive sector, its trade in gold and other precious metals, along with its currency, the Iranian rial, and other financial transactions.

WATCH: US-Iran relations

He also reiterated that on Nov. 5, the United States would also resume sanctions against Iran's energy-related transactions, as well as business conducted by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.

Trump renewed his attack on the international nuclear pact, calling it "a horrible, one-sided deal" that "failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb," while giving it "a lifeline of cash" when earlier sanctions were lifted.

"Since the deal was reached, Irans aggression has only increased," Trump said. He said Iran has used "the windfall of newly accessible funds" it received "to build nuclear-capable missiles, fund terrorism, and fuel conflict across the Middle East and beyond."

He added, "To this day, Iran threatens the United States and our allies, undermines the international financial system, and supports terrorism and militant proxies around the world."

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, in a speech broadcast on state television, said the United States cannot be trusted because it withdrew from the international pact, whose other signatories still support it. He said Tehran has always believed in resolving disputes diplomatically.

Rouhani said that Trump's call for direct negotiations with Iran were "only for domestic consumption in America ... and to create chaos in Iran."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, like Trump a long-time opponent of the accord, congratulated him on the new sanctions.

"This is an important moment for Israel, the U.S., the region and the entire world," Netanyahu said.

In Washington, senior administration officials said that while critics of Trump's withdrawal from the Iran pact predicted that the threat of unilateral sanctions reimposed by the United States would be ineffective, the reality has shown the opposite.

"Three months out, we have a very different picture in front of us," with higher unemployment, "widespread protests, social issues and labor unrest," one Trump official said.

One of the officials said that nearly 100 international firms have announced their intention to leave the Iranian market, particularly in the energy and finance sectors.

The official said the United States expects Iran will blame it for any new hardships, saying, "They've been doing it for almost 40 years. Now, it's there. It's their modus operandi. But I think you can see the Iranian people start to see through that. We would like to see a change in the regime behavior, and I think the Iranian people are looking for the same thing."

EU takes action

The European Union, which remains a supporter of the three-year-old nuclear pact with Iran, said it is taking counter-measures to blunt the impact of the sanctions Trump has reinstituted.

The EU said it is simultaneously implementing a "blocking statute" as the new sanctions take effect, stopping European companies from complying with the U.S. sanctions unless they have permission to do so. It also blocks the effect of any U.S. court actions in Europe related to the sanctions.

EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini and the French, German and British foreign ministers said they deeply regretted Trump's action.

They called the international agreement "a key element of the global nuclear nonproliferation architecture, crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world."

In his statement, Trump said the United States "is fully committed to enforcing all of our sanctions, and we will work closely with nations conducting business with Iran to ensure complete compliance. Individuals or entities that fail to wind down activities with Iran risk severe consequences."

The two other signatories to the 2015 pact  Russia and China  also continue to support it. The International Atomic Energy Agency, which is monitoring the implementation of the deal, has said in 11 consecutive reports that Iran is in compliance and that the agreement has allowed for greater verification of Iran's nuclear activities.

The 2015 agreement called for Iran to sharply curb its uranium enrichment program and other nuclear activity in exchange for the end of most sanctions. Iran has repeatedly denied its nuclear program was aimed at developing nuclear weapons.
August 7 is Kenyas 9/11, the day of the worst terrorist attack in the country's history. On this day twenty years ago, a truck bomb destroyed the U.S. embassy in Nairobi, killing 213 people, most of them Kenyans. A simultaneous attack on the U.S. embassy in Tanzania that same morning killed 11 more. In Nairobi, hundreds gathered Tuesday to remember those who were killed and injured. Mohammed Yusuf reports.
A $250 million luxury yacht allegedly paid for with money from Malaysia's scandal-tainted 1MDB sovereign wealth fund has arrived at a port near Kuala Lumpur.

The 90-meter vessel dubbed Equanimity arrived at Port Klang Tuesday after a journey from the Indonesian island of Batam. The Cayman Islands-registered vessel was seized by Indonesia authorities off the resort island of Bali in February at the request of the U.S. Justice Department.

The luxury boat, which is equipped with a swimming pool, gym, helicopter landing pad and movie theater, was bought by Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho, who U.S. officials say bought the luxury boat with stolen 1MDB funds.

Malaysian authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Low Taek Jho, a close associate of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, who created 1MDB while in office.

Najib was arrested last month and charged with three counts of criminal breach of trust and one count of corruption in connection with the 1MDB scandal. The U.S. Justice Department says some of the $4.5 billion stolen from 1MDB landed in Najib's personal bank accounts.



He has pleaded not guilty to the charges, which carry a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. His trial is tentatively set to begin next February.



The scandal led to the stunning electoral victory in May by a coalition led by 92-year-old Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad over Najib's National Front coalition, which had ruled Malaysia uninterrupted since gaining independence in 1957  22 of those years under Mahathir.



Since his ouster, Najib has been barred from leaving Malaysia and questioned by the government's anti-graft agency along with his wife, Rosmah Mansor.



Just days before his arrest, Malaysian police said they had seized nearly $275 million in cash, jewelry and luxury handbags in raids on properties linked to Najib. The inventory included 12,000 pieces of jewelry, 567 handbags, 423 watches and 234 pairs of sunglasses. The most expensive item was a necklace worth more than $1 million.
August 7 is Kenyas 9/11, the day of the worst terrorist attack in the country's history. On this day 20 years ago, a truck bomb destroyed the U.S. embassy in Nairobi, killing 213 people, most of them Kenyans. In Nairobi, hundreds gathered Tuesday to remember victims of the brutal attack.

Pamela Olum was in the hospital the day of the embassy bombing. Three days earlier, she gave birth to her third child.

She says her husband came to see her at Mater hospital and to pay the bill. He gave her 5,000 shillings for her 17,000 shilling bill and left for the bank to get the rest of the money. Olum says she never saw him again.

Lawrence Olum was one of the people killed on August 7, 1998, when al-Qaida exploded truck bombs in front of the U.S. embassies in this capital city and in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The attacks killed a total of 224 people and injured nearly 5,000.



On Tuesday, about 200 people, including survivors, gathered at a memorial park in Nairobi to honor victims of the attack and offer prayers.

Participants lit candles and laid flowers as signs of remembrance.



Teddy Gianopulos came to honor her sister, who worked at the U.S. embassy at the time of the bombings. She was 51 when she was killed.

There is not a day we forget her. She is very much alive in our minds," Gianopulos said. "But this day is a painful day for all of us [in] her family: her children, her grandchildren, which she did not get to see."



Kenya National Counterterrorism Center Director Martin Kimani says his country still faces the threat of terrorism.

Kenya was injured extraordinarily 20 years ago, and today, 20 years later, Kenya remains threatened by terrorism and terrorists. But our country has taken giant strides to prepare better, to be more ready, said Kimani.



U.S. ambassador Robert Godec said that in the midst of evil carried out by terrorists on embassy staff and others, he saw humanity.

The moment of the terrible terror, that atrocity of the attack, we also saw great heroism. We saw so many embassy staff, Kenyans, people coming together to help rescue those who were injured, to help retrieve those who had been killed, to help begin the process of rebuilding and working together, said Godec.

For Pamela Olum, life has been difficult. But she has survived the years to overcome the pain and educate her children.

Her first-born is now a DJ (a music mixer). Her second child is a university graduate, and her third was accepted into a top Kenyan university this year.
The deaths of three Russian journalists investigating their countrys military presence in the Central African Republic last week has cast renewed attention on a shadowy group of private mercenaries with alleged ties to the Kremlin.

The bodies of war correspondent Orkhan Dzhemal, documentary filmmaker Alexander Rastorguyev and cameraman Kirill Radchenko were delivered to Moscow Sunday morning  nearly a week after unknown gunmen ambushed their vehicle as the men traveled by night on a road 180 kilometers (112 miles) north of the capital of Bangui.

Only their locally hired driver escaped the attack unharmed, later telling CAR officials men turbaned and speaking only Arabic had killed the journalists at a checkpoint.

Yet questions as to the reason for the attack abound:

Was it robbery, as Russian and CAR government officials have suggested? The journalists were carrying about $8,000 in cash. The CAR is known as one of Africas poorest countries, long mired in a simmering civil war between Muslim and Christian factions.

Or was the killing related to the three mens work? The journalists traveled to the Central African Republic to film a documentary for a Kremlin-exiled oligarch about "the Wagner Group," a secret army of Russian mercenaries who  mounting evidence shows  have played an important role in Russias military ambitions.

Ukraine and Syria



Indeed, the Wagner Groups roots date back to Russias proxy war in Ukraine in 2014, when Russian soldiers and mercenaries blended in with what the Kremlin insisted were merely passionate "volunteers" providing support for pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine's east.

While Moscow has long insisted Russia is not formally part of the conflict, Russian fighters have routinely taken part in battles  lured, say journalists, by both idealism, propaganda and money.

A huge number of people went to work for Wagner with pleasure, explained journalist Denis Korotov of Fontanka.ru, an online publication in Saint Petersburg who first broke news of the Wagner mercenaries.



Russia has more than enough people who know how to shoot a gun, and these people cant make anything close to this kind of money working in the civilian sector, he added in an interview with VOA last January.

Wagner links soon emerged in Syria, where the Kremlin launched a military campaign in support of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad in the fall of 2015.

Although President Vladimir Putin insisted at the outset that Russias military role would be limited, Wagner became the Kremlins main tactical group in Syria. Because the Syrian army cant do the job on their own, said Ruslan Leviev of the Conflict Intelligence Team, a group of researchers who have also tracked Wagners movements using online forensics.

An air campaign cant win the war and a ground invasion meant big losses, he added.

The casualty debate

Wagner casualty figures have long been a source of dispute  with journalists regularly tracking mercenary deaths amid government denials of the groups very existence.

Take Deir el-Zour. An oil-rich region in eastern Syria held by U.S. coalition forces, Deir el-Zour came under attack last February by troops loyal to the Syrian leadership. The U.S. response, according to both American and Syrian officials, was overwhelming and lethal.

Later reports surfaced that Russians  perhaps as few as five, perhaps as many as 200  were among the dead. U.S. officials eventually confirmed the outlines of the story, saying a couple hundred Russians had been killed in the attack.

Moscow has scoffed at those numbers, insisting its own troops had suffered no losses.

Enter Africa

In the Central African Republic, some contend Wagners mission has shifted once again  this time, to protect economic as well as political interests.

Media reports suggest Wagnerites are there to flush out  or, perhaps, blend in with  175 Russian civilian and military instructors tasked within a larger United Nations mission aimed at shoring up the C.A.R.s government amid a civil war. The Kremlin has also openly worked with C.A.R. to develop its diamond and mineral industries.

We conclude that the Russian civilian instructors in C.A.R are in fact Russian mercenaries from Wagner, says Conflict Intelligence Teams Ruslan Leviev.

Russian officials, in turn, stress the Russian presence is there with U.N. backing.

There is nothing sensational about the presence of Russian instructors in the Central African Republic, said Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. No one has been concealing anything.

Investigations, state media taboos

Attention has now turned to competing investigations  both official and journalistic  into the Russian journalists slayings.

Yet the sensitive nature of the Wagner story within Russia has long been clear.

Russian state media has largely ignored the story  including allegations Wagners sponsor is Evgeny Prigozhin, a restaurateur whose ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin have earned him the nickname Putins Chef  and a place on U.S. sanctions lists.

State media reporting has instead argued the slain journalists were duped into shooting a documentary film for the Investigation Control Center, an outlet funded by the exiled oligarch-turned-Kremlin opponent Mikhail Khodorkovsky. The suggestion of political motivations is clear.

Meanwhile, independent observers argue that  in the wake of Russian deaths in Syria and now the Central African Republic  its long past time for the Kremlin to lift the veil on Wagner.

The government's secrecy, they note, is largely due to Russian law that declares private mercenary groups illegal.

Second tragic call after the Deir-el-Zor incident last February, wrote the Moscow Carnegie Center analyst Dmitry Trenin in a post to Twitter.

The killing of three Russian investigative journalists in the Central African Republic makes it imperative that Russian private military/security companies are given proper status under Russian law."
Nigeria's security forces stopped lawmakers entering parliament on Tuesday in a blockade seen by the opposition as a bid to intimidate its leaders, but the presidency condemned the move and the acting president fired the head of the security agency.

It is the first such incident since Nigeria became a democracy in 1999 and coincides with increased tension between the National Assembly and the executive ahead of an election in February 2019 when President Muhammadu Buhari will seek a second term.

For some, it revived memories of the decades when the military and security forces held sway over politics in a country that has one of Africa's largest economies.

Armed men wearing the black uniform of the Department of State Security (DSS) stood at the gates of the building in the capital Abuja and were later joined by police officers blocking entry for up to an hour, witnesses said.

Images of the incident were shared widely on social media.

The motive for the blockade was not immediately clear.

But a spokesman for Vice President Yemi Osinbajo said in a statement that the DSS director general, Lawal Musa Daura, had been fired. Osinbajo is acting president for Buhari, who last week left for a 10-day holiday in Britain.

"The unlawful act, which was done without the knowledge of the presidency, is condemnable and completely unacceptable," said a separate statement issued later by Osinbajo's office.

It described the move as an "unauthorised takeover of the National Assembly complex" which was "a gross violation of constitutional order, rule of law and all accepted notions of law and order."

The statement gave no reason for Daura's dismissal. The presidency later said Matthew B. Seiyefa, the most senior director in the DSS, will act as director general until further notice.

Recent defections

The blockade followed the defection of around 50 lawmakers from Buhari's ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party to the main opposition in the last few weeks. These included the country's third most senior elected official, Senate President Bukola Saraki.

The defections cost the APC its Senate majority and present a challenge to Buhari's re-election bid because most of those who left joined the opposition People's Democratic Party which ruled Nigeria from 1999 until Buhari took office in May 2015.

Saraki's supporters said the blockade was part of a plan to impeach and replace him. Parliament went on recess last week until Sept. 25, but meetings were to be held Tuesday.

"We urge Nigerians and the international community to condemn this illegal invasion of the National Assembly complex and the attempt to asphyxiate the legislature as undemocratic, uncivilized and irresponsible," said Saraki in a tweet.

After the blockade, Saraki's supporters greeted him with chanting in the parliament building.

"The presidency's sack of Daura was a damage-control stunt and a knee-jerk gimmick which came as a response to the national and international outcry against the armed invasion of our legislature," said a PDP statement.

The ruling party said attempts to blame its leaders for Tuesday's blockade were "false allegations" and "mischievous."

"The use of armed security agents to force political outcomes does not bode well for the February 2019 general election," said Malte Liewerscheidt, vice president at Teneo Intelligence, in a note.
A record number of openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people are standing in elections for public office in the United States, a nonprofit group that supports them said Tuesday.

The Victory Institute said gay and transgender people were still underrepresented in political life, but it was aware of more than 400 LGBT candidates so far in 2018  a higher number than ever before.

"It's a really exciting time," Sean Meloy, the Victory Institute's political director, told Reuters.

"We believe that representation is power and when someone is in the room and helping to make decisions, they will automatically bring an LGBTQ perspective."

Earlier this year, the Victory Institute said 0.1 percent of all elected public officials currently serving  or 559  were openly LGBT.

It said an estimated 5 percent of U.S. citizens identified as LGBT, though a recent major poll suggested the figure could exceed 20 percent among young adults.

The majority of the LGBT candidates coming forward are Democrats, and many are standing in November's midterm elections.

They are running for positions ranging from state governor to local government officials.

Among them is Alexandra Chandler, a Democrat transgender woman and former military intelligence officer running for Congress in Massachusetts.

She said a more diverse group of officials would better reflect society and bring better policy, but that she did not believe her identity was a concern for most voters.

"They want the person that gets the job done," she said. "The gender identity or sexual identity, it's part of someone's biography, it's part of the whole person they bring to the table, but it's only a part."

Public policy expert Patrick Egan said the figures reflected an increasing tolerance of LGBT people among the U.S. public.

"Gay people have always been involved with electoral politics and many of them ran for office," said Egan, associate professor of politics and public policy at New York University.

"What we are seeing now is the slow receding in stigma against gay people in that they can not only run for office but run openly as LGBT."
Search and rescue operations are continuing on Indonesian resort islands following Sunday's powerful earthquake that has killed more than 100 people.

Residents who lost their homes sheltered in makeshift tents while most tourists were able to evacuate on Monday.

Sunday's quake, recorded at magnitude 6.9 by the U.S. Geological Survey (revised down from 7.0), struck at a depth of 10.5 kilometers in the northern part of Lombok island, triggering a brief tsunami warning. It was also felt on the neighboring Gili islands as well as Bali, Sumbawa and parts of East Java.

Much of the evacuation efforts were focused on the tiny Gili islands, three vacation islands near Lombok. Tourists lined up on the small beaches Monday waiting for the boats that would take them to the larger Lombok island.



Officials said more than 2,000 people were evacuated from the Gili islands on Monday.

Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a spokesman for the country's National Disaster Mitigation Agency, told reporters Monday that most of those killed and injured were on the northern side of Lombok, which sustained massive damage.



Officials said most of the victims were killed by falling rubble, and say more than 200 people have been seriously injured. They say thousands of houses were damaged in the quake.

Nugroho says the death toll is expected to rise as search and rescue crews reach more affected areas. He said no foreign tourists are among the dead.



Electricity was knocked out in several parts of the city and patients were evacuated from the main hospital.



Singapore Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam, who was in the Lombok town of Mataram at the time of the quake, posted pictures of the destruction on his Facebook page and said his 10th-floor hotel room shook violently and walls cracked.

"It was quite impossible to stand up. Heard screams," he wrote. "Came out, and made my way down a staircase, while building was still shaking. Power went out for a while. Lots of cracks, fallen doors."

Australia's Minister for Home Affairs, Peter Dutton, was also on Lombok. He said he was knocked to the floor of his room on the 12th floor of a hotel.

Mutya Aryani, a local resident in Sumbawa, told VOA by phone, "Most of people were at the mosque when the earthquake happened. People ran to the street and a large field outside the mosque. We're still traumatized by the previous earthquake a few days ago, which was also quite large."

Last week, 17 people were killed when a 6.4-magnitude earthquake hit Lombok.

Like Bali, Lombok is known for its pristine beaches and mountains.

Indonesia is prone to earthquakes due to its location on the Pacific "Ring of Fire,'' an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Ocean Basin. In December 2004, a magnitude-9.1 earthquake off Sumatra island triggered a tsunami that killed 230,000 people in a dozen countries.

VOA's Indonesian Service contributed to this report.
Former Ivory Coast first lady Simone Gbagbo is one of 800 prisoners who were granted amnesty Monday by President Alassane Ouattara for offenses related to the brief but deadly civil war in 2011.

Simone Gbagbo was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2015 after she was convicted on a charge of endangering state security for her role in the violence. She was tried and acquitted last year on a charge of crimes against humanity. Prosecutors accused her of leading a cell that carried out violent reprisals against opponents of her husband, then-President Laurent Gbagbo, including supplying it with weapons and attack helicopters.

About 3,000 people were killed in the West African nation in 2011 after Laurent Gbagbo refused to accept his loss to Ouattara in elections held the previous November. Gbagbo was later captured and turned over to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, where he is on trial for crimes against humanity.
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, early Tuesday morning, on a mission to deploy a communications satellite.

SpaceX says not long after the rocket lifted off, the Falcon's re-usable first stage booster landed successfully on a drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean.

The second stage stayed in orbit, deploying a communications satellite that will provide service to Indonesia and other areas of South and Southeast Asia.
Georgia on Tuesday condemned Russia's continued "occupation" of its territory, a decade after the two countries went to war over the Kremlin-backed separatist regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

"This is a war against Georgia, an aggression, an occupation, and a blatant violation of international law," Georgian President Giorgi Margvelashvili told a round table meeting attended by Georgian government officials and visiting foreign ministers of Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine's vice premier.

"The aggressor's appetite has only increased after the invasion," he said.

Georgia and its Soviet-era master Russia have long been at loggerheads over Tbilisi's bid to join the European Union and NATO with the spiraling confrontation culminating in a five-day war in 2008.

On August 8, 2008, the Russian army swept into Georgia - bombing targets and occupying large swathes of territory - after Tbilisi launched a large-scale military operation against South Ossetian separatist forces who had been shelling Georgian villages in the region.

Over just five days, Russia defeated Georgia's small military and the hostilities ended with a cease-fire mediated by France's then-president Nicolas Sarkozy, who at the time held the European Union's rotating presidency.

After the war, Moscow recognized South Ossetia and another separatist enclave, Abkhazia, as independent states where it then stationed permanent military bases.

Tbilisi and its Western partners condemned the move as an "illegal occupation of Georgian soil" and the first time a sovereign state's borders were changed in Europe through military force since the end of World War II.

'Failure to punish Russia'

Speaking to AFP last week, Margvelashvili said that back in 2008, the West believed Russia's military campaign against Georgia "was an isolated move which will not be repeated against other countries".

"And then we witnessed what Russia did in Ukraine in 2014," he added, referring to the Kremlin's support for pro-Moscow rebels in eastern Ukraine and Russia's annexation of the Crimean peninsula.

In an interview with the Kommersant daily Monday, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev - who was president in 2008 - defended Moscow's recognition of the separatist regions as "the only possible step... to maintain durable peace" and "stability in the South Caucasus."

'Smack in the jaw'

In an editorial published on Monday on the website of Russia's Echo Moskvy radio station, Mikheil Saakashvili - Georgia's president in 2004-2013 - said Russia had been preparing to invade his country years before the war broke out.

He said Georgia had no chance of winning a war against its giant northern neighbor, but gave "the aggressor a smack in the jaw" when it offered resistance and won "time until the international community woke up."

Russian President Vladimir Putin - a prime minister during the war - said in 2012 that he approved a plan of military action against Georgia as early is in 2006 and that Russia has "trained South Ossetian militia".

Earlier on Tuesday, Georgias Foreign Ministry denounced Russia's continued military build-up in the separatist regions.

"The Russian Federation has not implemented its international obligations despite constant calls from the international community... and has further reinforced its illegal military presence on the ground," the ministry said in a statement.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the EU's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said the "Russian military presence in both Abkhazia and South Ossetia continues to violate international law".

She reiterated Europe's "firm support of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia" which she hailed as a "model of democratic stability in the region."

Joining the chorus of international condemnation, the German Foreign Ministry called Russia's recognition of the breakaway Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia "unacceptable."

The 2008 war claimed the lives of hundreds of soldiers and civilians from both sides. The U.N. said around 120,000 people were displaced during the war, though most returned to their homes afterwards.

Up to 18,500 ethnic Georgians were forcibly displaced from South Ossetia, according to prosecutors from the International Criminal Court which in 2016 opened an investigation into war crimes committed during the conflict.

Russia and separatist authorities in Abkhazia and South Ossetia have rejected repeated calls from the U.N. General Assembly for the "safe and dignified return to their homes."
A U.S. court on Monday ruled the Trump administration could not enforce an updated policy barring certain transgender people from serving in the U.S. military, becoming the second court in the country to rule against the government since it unveiled the policy in March.

Trump announced on March 23 that he would endorse a plan by Defense Secretary Jim Mattis to restrict the military service of transgender people who experience a condition called gender dysphoria. The policy replaced an outright ban on transgender service members that Trump announced last year on Twitter, citing concern over military focus and medical costs.

U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly in Washington denied a request by the administration to lift an injunction she had issued against Trump's original ban. Her ruling follows one by a federal judge in Seattle who in April also refused to allow the new policy to go into effect.

The government has appealed that ruling to the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The administration argued that the new policy, which also bars anyone who requires or has undergone gender transition, was no longer a categorical ban.

Kollar-Kotelly disagreed. The new policy effectively implements the original ban "by targeting proxies of transgender status, such as 'gender dysphoria' and 'gender transition,' and by requiring all service members to serve 'in their biological sex,'" she wrote in Monday's ruling.

The U.S. Department of Justice could not immediately be reached for comment.

The American Psychiatric Association defines gender dysphoria as a "clinically significant distress" due to a conflict between a person's gender identity and their sex assigned at birth. Not all transgender people suffer from gender dysphoria, according to the association, which opposes the military ban.

Monday's ruling came in a lawsuit filed last August by several aspiring service troops and current members of the U.S. Army, Air Force and Coast Guard.

Last October, Kollar-Kotelly ruled that the original ban likely violated the U.S. Constitution's guarantee of equal protection under the law. Three more judges also blocked the ban, forcing the military to permit openly transgender individuals to join the ranks.

Trump's ban reversed Democratic former President Barack Obama's policy of allowing transgender troops to serve openly and receive medical care to transition genders.

The new Trump policy exempts those diagnosed with gender dysphoria during the Obama policy, allowing them to remain in the military and serve according to their gender identity.
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will pay a state visit to Germany on Sept. 28-29, a spokeswoman for German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said on Tuesday, amid efforts by the allies to improves ties strained by a number of disputes.

The two fellow members of the NATO military alliance have differed over Turkeys crackdown on suspected opponents of Erdogan after a failed coup in 2016 and over its detention of German citizens.

The spokeswoman did not say if Erdogan would also hold talks with Chancellor Angela Merkel. Merkels office declined to comment.

Germanys mass-selling Bild newspaper reported last month that Erdogan would visit Germany around late September.

A state visit would include a reception by Steinmeier with military honors and a formal state banquet. The German and Turkish foreign ministers vowed earlier this year to do everything to improve relations.

Their resolve led to the release in February of a German-Turkish journalist who had been held in Turkey for a year for alleged security offenses. His release fulfilled a key demand by Germany, which still takes issue with what it calls Turkeys deteriorating record on human rights.

Another German national was arrested in southeastern Turkey last month accused of spreading propaganda for Turkish militants, Turkish state media said.

The Turkish government has purged more than 150,000 civil servants and charged 77,000 people since the failed coup.

It has also launched cross-border operations into Syria against what it says are terrorist threats by the Kurdish YPG militia, which it deems a terrorist organization linked to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).

Rights groups and Turkeys Western allies have criticized the crackdown, saying Erdogan has used the coup as a pretext to muzzle dissent. The government says the measures are necessary.
The U.N. refugee and migration agencies have helped 116 Somali refugees return home from war-torn Yemen, although conditions in parts of Somalia remain unsafe.

The boat, which sailed from Aden, Yemen on Saturday arrived in the port of Berbera in Somalia the day after. Among its passengers were female heads of households, several students hoping to resume their educations, and a critically ill patient traveling with his family.

Since the so-called assisted spontaneous return program began in 2017, the U.N. refugee agency and International Organization for Migration have helped more than 2,000 Somali refugees return to their homes of origin.

UNHCR spokesman William Spindler says the Somali refugees are living under precarious conditions and, like the Yemenis themselves, are not receiving adequate aid and protection.

Refugees are vulnerable to early marriage, child labor, detention and to the risk of dangerous onward movement. These circumstances have added to the urgent need for UNHCR to increase humanitarian support, mitigate risks and find lasting solutions for these people.

Spindler tells VOA that UNHCR is not promoting returns to Somalia because they are not sustainable.

But he says his agency is responding to demands from refugees for help to return home because the alternative of remaining in Yemen is worse.

From our perspective, the situation in Somalia is far from safe. But, at the same time, Yemen, as we know is facing the worlds worst humanitarian crisis with outbreaks of disease, with food insecurity and with an ongoing conflict that has displaced millions of people.

When the refugees arrive in Somalia, Spindler says they receive a cash grant and an allowance, as well as household items, food assistance from the World Food Program, and an education allowance for primary school children.
U.S. national security adviser John Bolton accused North Korea Tuesday of failing to move ahead with denuclearization pledged by Pyongyang leader Kim Jong Un at his Singapore summit in June with U.S. President Donald Trump.

"What we really need is not more rhetoric," Bolton said in an interview on Fox News. "What we need is performance from North Korea on denuclearization."

He said that since the summit, North Korea "has not taken the steps we feel are necessary to denuclearize."

Bolton said the U.S. is not considering relaxation of its economic sanctions against Pyongyang.

The key White House official said that Trump, in a recent letter to Kim, proposed sending U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo back to the North Korean capital for further talks. Trump also said he was willing to hold a second summit with Kim.

It was the second time in three days that Bolton expressed irritation at Pyongyang's slow moves in implementing Kim's vague pledge to Trump to denuclearize the Korean peninsula. His attacks came as U.S. news reports said North Korea was continuing to build missiles and produce plutonium.

'Waiting to see evidence'

On Sunday, in another interview on Fox, Bolton said that "there's nobody" in Trump's administration that is "starry-eyed about the prospects of North Korea actually denuclearizing."

He said the "point may well come" when the U.S. concludes that Kim does not intend to give up his country's nuclear weapons.

Bolton said Trump is giving Kim ample time to move toward denuclearization, which Trump administration officials are hopeful of completing by the end of the president's first term in the White House in early 2021.

"The president is giving Kim Jong Un a master class on how to hold a door open for somebody," Bolton said, "and if the North Koreans can't figure out how to walk through it, even the president's fiercest critics will not be able to say it's because he didn't open it wide enough."

The national security adviser said, "If they make a strategic decision to give up nuclear weapons, they can do it within a year. We are waiting to see evidence that in fact that strategic decision has been made."
A U.S. federal court has sentenced Adam Purinton of the U.S. state of Kansas to life in prison without parole for the racially motivated killing of an Indian national at a bar in February 2017.

In a statement released Tuesday by the U.S. Department of Justice, Attorney General Jeff Sessions called the shootings "detestable" and said, "Such hateful crimes will remain a priority for the Department of Justice."

The shooter at Austin's Bar and Grill in Olathe, Kansas, killed engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla and injured his companion, Alok Madasani. The co-workers from a GPS navigation company were both from the southern Indian city of Hyderabad.

A third victim, Ian Grillot, was shot when he chased Purinton as Purinton fled.

Tuesday's ruling means Purinton will not receive the death penalty, after he pleaded guilty earlier this year to three federal hate crime charges. Hate crime charges were applied because Purinton was alleged to have targeted the Indian men because of their race, color, religion or national origin.

Witnesses said Purinton confronted the men, saying "Get out of my country," before leaving the bar and returning with a gun. He later told a friend he had shot "two Iranians."

After the shooting, Purinton was apprehended at a bar in Clinton, Missouri.

Kuchibhotla's widow, Sunayana Dumala, said in a victim-impact statement that had he been asked, her husband "would have been more than happy to share his background" and show the shooter that "not every brown-skinned person is suspicious or evil."

"Srinu and I came to the United States full of dreams and aspirations," she said. "Now, my American Dream  and that of Srinu's  is broken."

Following the shooting, Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj posted a statement on Twitter, saying he was "shocked" at the incident.
The United States on Tuesday declined to get involved in a diplomatic dispute between Canada and Saudi Arabia, two of its closest allies.

Both countries have recalled each other's ambassadors after Canada criticized the Saudis for arresting human rights activists.

"Regarding Canada, we have raised that with the government of Saudi Arabia. They are friends. They are partners. Both sides need to diplomatically resolve this together. We can't do it for them," State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said Tuesday.

Nauert said the U.S. would ask the Saudis for more information about the arrests and urged them to "respect due process."

The Canadian foreign ministry demanded the Saudis free Samar Badawi and other "peaceful human rights activists" who have been jailed for their work inside the conservative kingdom.

The Saudi government accused Canada of interfering in its internal affairs. It recalled its ambassador to Canada and expelled the Canadian ambassador to Riyadh.

Riyadh also ordered about 16,000 Saudi students studying in Canada to come home. It has suspended direct flights to Toronto  Canada's largest city  and is putting all new business with Canadian companies on hold.

Badawi's brother Raif  winner of the European Union's Sakharov Prize for human rights  has been in a Saudi prison since 2012 and was given 1,000 lashes on charges of insulting Islam in a blog.

Raif Badawi's wife and three children live in Quebec, and became Canadian citizens last month.
Venezuela's state-run oil company PDVSA has limited the damage from an unprecedented slump in crude exports by transferring oil between tankers at sea and loading vessels in neighboring Cuba to avoid asset seizures.

But the OPEC member nation is still fulfilling less than 60 percent of its obligations under supply deals with customers. Venezuela has been pumping oil this year at the lowest rate in three decades after years of underinvestment and a mass exodus of workers. The state-run firms collapse has left the country short of cash to fund its embattled socialist government and triggered an economic crisis.

PDVSAs problems were compounded in May when U.S. oil firm ConocoPhillips began seizing PDVSA assets in the Caribbean as payment for a $2 billion arbitration award. An arbitration panel at the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) ordered PDVSA to pay the cash to compensate Conoco for expropriating the firms Venezuelan assets in 2007.

The seizures left PDVSA without access to facilities such as Isla refinery in Curacao and BOPEC terminal in Bonaire that accounted for almost a quarter of the companys oil exports. Conocos actions also forced PDVSA to stop shipping oil on its own vessels to terminals in the Caribbean, and then onto refineries worldwide, to avoid the risk the cargoes would be seized in international waters or foreign ports.

Instead, PDVSA asked customers to charter tankers to Venezuelan waters and load from the companys own terminals or from anchored PDVSA vessels acting as floating storage units.

The state-run company told some clients in early June it might impose force majeure, a temporary suspension of export contracts, unless they agreed to such ship-to-ship transfers. PDVSA also requested the customers stop sending vessels to its terminals until it could load those that were already clogging Venezuelas coastline.

Initially, customers were reluctant to undertake the transfers because of costs, safety concerns and the need for specialist equipment and experienced crew.

But PDVSA has managed to export about 1.3 million barrels per day (bpd) of oil since early July, up from just 765,000 bpd in the first half of June, according to Thomson Reuters data and internal PDVSA shipping data seen by Reuters.

That was still 59 percent of the countrys 2.19 million bpd in contractual obligations to customers for that period, and some vessels are still waiting for weeks in Venezuelan waters to load oil.

There were about two dozen tankers waiting this week to load over 22 million barrels of crude and refined products at the countrys largest ports, according to Reuters data.

We are not tied to one option or a single loading terminal, PDVSA President Manuel Quevedo said on Tuesday of the companys exports. We have several (terminals) in our country and we have some in the Caribbean, which of course facilitate crude shipping to fulfill our supply contracts.

Cuban connection

PDVSA has also used a route through Cuba to ease the impact of the Conoco seizures. That route is for fuel rather than crude.

The Venezuelan company has used a terminal at the port of Matanzas as a conduit mostly for exporting fuel oil, according to two people familiar with the operations and Thomson Reuters shipping data. Venezuela's fuel oil is burned in some countries to generate electricity.

Two tankers set sail from the Matanzas terminal for Singapore between mid-May and early July, Reuters data showed. Each ship carried around 500,000 barrels of Venezuelan fuel, Reuters data shows.

In recent months, Venezuela has been shipping fuel to Matanzas in small batches, according to the data.

PDVSA and Cubas state-run oil firm Cupet have used Matanzas to store Venezuelan crude and fuel in the past but exports from the terminal to Asian destinations are rare.

That is in part because vessels that use Cuban ports cannot subsequently dock in the United States due to the U.S. commercial embargo on Cuba.

Cupet did not respond to requests for comment. PDVSA has also used ship-to-ship transfers to fulfill an unusual supply contract it has with Cubas Cienfuegos refinery.

The refinery dates from the 1980s  when Cuba was a close ally of the Soviet Union during the Cold War  and the facility was built to process Russian crude.

PDVSA typically uses its own or leased tankers to bring Russian crude from storage in the nearby Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao to Cienfuegos. But it is now discharging the imported Russian oil at sea in Cayman Islands waters via these seaborne transfers.

ConocoPhillips last month ratcheted up its collection efforts by moving to depose officials from Citgo Petroleum, PDVSAs U.S. refining arm, arguing it had improperly claimed ownership of some PDVSA cargoes. Citgo declined to comment.

ConocoPhillips is also preparing new legal actions to get Caribbean courts to recognize its International Chamber of Commerce arbitration award. If it succeeds in those efforts, it would be able to sell the assets to help satisfy the ruling.
Chileans are learning the downside of being an economic success story. Waves of migrants from poorer Latin American countries are coming to Chile, putting a strain on social services and causing local resentment. It is beginning to become as politicized as in the United States and Europe.

Chile has one of Latin America's strongest and steadily growing economies, with a projected increase in GDP of over 4 percent this year. Chile also has low levels of corruption and the region's highest per capita income of $15,000.

As a result, immigration to Chile has more than tripled in the last two years, from 462,000 in 2015 to approximately 2 million in 2017, raising the foreign-born portion of the population to 7 percent from less than 3 percent.

Stricter U.S. barriers

The influx is partly the result of migrants flooding out of Venezuela in the wake of that country's economic collapse. Venezuelans are being accepted in Chile as political refugees. Many of them have educated, middle-class backgrounds and professional qualifications that facilitate their assimilation.

Stricter U.S. barriers to immigration could also be diverting migrant flows away from established North American routes and toward Latin America's wealthy southern cone countries, including Argentina, where large numbers of Colombians and other Caribbean migrants are arriving.

"No other country in South America has been impacted as much by immigration as Chile," said interior ministry immigration official Mijail Bonito. In a country where extreme poverty had all but disappeared, immigrant ghettos  where entire families share 2 x 2 meter spaces in rickety dormitory shacks and tent cities  are now spreading.

'Visibly accentuated'

Bonito told VOA that the problem has recently become "visibly accentuated" with the arrival over the past 18 months of 160,000 poor Haitians escaping the chaos engulfing their poverty-stricken country.

Some officials say Chile became a choice destination as a result of its participation in a U.N. peacekeeping force deployed to Haiti after the devastating 2012 earthquake.

"Haitians discovered Chile through soldiers who spread the word of good paying work and social benefits," said Rodrigo Delgado, district mayor of the Santiago suburb of Estacion Central, which has one of the highest concentrations of Haitians at 15 percent of the local population.

Trafficking troubles

The government is also conducting 17 investigations into alleged human trafficking rings that have lured Haitians with promises of work, housing and loans.

Spanish-speaking migrants from neighboring Peru, Bolivia and Colombia have blended more easily with Chile's ethnically mixed European and Indian population. But Afro-Caribbeans are more conspicuous in a traditional insular country unused to much racial or cultural diversity.

"This is an invasion," said a Santiago taxi driver, pointing to black Haitians milling in the capital's center speaking Creole while scratching out a living as street vendors and low-level construction workers. "How can we afford to keep all these people," he said.

In one of his first acts upon taking office this year, conservative President Sebastian Pinera clamped visa requirements on Haitians who had been allowed unimpeded entry by the previous socialist government.

This year's election is the first in which immigration was an issue in Chile, according to the Washington-based Migration Policy Institute.

Maverick candidate

Anti-immigration politician Jose Antonio Kast, who wanted to build walls along Chile's borders with Bolivia and Peru, emerged as a maverick candidate in last November's first-round voting, scoring nearly 10 percent of the vote.

His last-minute endorsement of Pinera was considered critical in securing the conservative win. According to recent opinion surveys, 76 percent of Chileans back tougher measures on immigration.

Some Haitians fear a backlash. Modeline Simois, who has worked as a cleaning woman on public buses since her arrival two years ago, said she was recently fired from her job "so that they could give it to Chileans."

But Pinera has also legalized the status of an estimated 300,000 undocumented immigrants.

His top officials don't want to be associated with the hard-line positions taken by U.S. President Donald Trump.

"Chile is not thinking of building a wall or separating families. We want an open policy with effective controls," interior minister Andres Chadwyk told VOA.

Opposition parties who retain a majority in Congress are resisting legislation introduced by the government to restrict entry of migrants and limit their access to state benefits.

Socialist lawmaker Catalina Perez said the proposed measures violate international agreements on freedom of movement and human rights.

'Immigration phenomenon'

Social welfare officials are calling for more public investment to deal with the "immigration phenomenon."

"We lack the resources and experience," said Delgado, who wants "special efforts" to integrate new arrivals so as to prevent their "social alienation," which could feed crime and gang violence.

Preferential access to public services is depriving Chileans of limited spaces. When Claudia Sepulveda, a single mother of two, tried placing her 5-year-old daughter in the local nursery last month, she was put on a long waiting list because priority went to immigrants.

"I was told by the principal that immigrants were being given preferential placing, especially Haitians, because they were considered the most vulnerable," said Sepulveda, who said she will vote for Kast in the next elections. "Chile is like a thin cow being milked by a lot of foreigners."
Hundreds of Islamic State terror group fighters and their family members surrendered Tuesday to Afghan government forces in northern Jawzjan province. The militants say they surrendered because they want to abandon violence and live a normal life. However, the Taliban claims it crushed the group.
Jeffrey Moyo

HARARE (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - When she discovered she was HIV-positive early this year, sex worker Evelyn Msipa, 32, was alone in her rented apartment in Zimbabwes capital Harare.

She wept on seeing the result from the self-testing kit she had used, then rushed to a local health centre where she received counselling before the diagnosis was confirmed.

Msipa bought the kit from a pharmacy as she had been afraid to find out her HIV status at a public clinic, and is one of a rising number of Zimbabweans using self-testing kits.

Under an initiative launched in 2016, the kits are sold for $3 to $5 in pharmacies and are free at public health centres as part of a drive to ensure 90 percent of Zimbabweans know their HIV status by 2020 and receive treatment quickly if needed.

Being HIV-positive is not a death sentence after all - I know now. Nobody can tell that I have HIV because I look healthy, Msipa told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Msipa said her decision to use a self-testing kit had influenced other women she works with to follow her example.

UNAIDS data shows about 1.3 million of Zimbabwes population of 16 million are living with HIV, including some 740,000 women. About three-quarters get antiretroviral therapy that can suppress the virus that leads to AIDS.

Although infection rates have slowed, the U.N. programme said Zimbabwe recorded 40,000 new HIV infections and 30,000 AIDS-related deaths in 2016.

New HIV infections have nearly halved since 2010 and AIDS-related deaths have fallen 45 percent.

The government hopes self-testing will lead to more people starting early treatment for HIV and ultimately lower the prevalence of HIV infection in Zimbabwe.

It is a good way to reach a lot more people, said Angela Mushavi, a doctor with the Ministry of Health and Child Care.

SOUTHERN AFRICA PUSH

One million HIV self-testing kits have been distributed in Zimbabwe free of charge since August 2016, the government said.

The national roll-out has focused on increasing access to self-testing among at-risk groups like sex workers.

It is now being widened to include pregnant women, young people and adolescents, said Mushavi, who is national coordinator for prevention of mother-to-child transmission and paediatric HIV care.

David Parirenyatwa, Zimbabwes Minister of Health and Child Care, said the campaign targets people who are afraid or ashamed of visiting public HIV testing centres.

Self-testing has also gained traction in other Southern African countries including Malawi, Zambia, South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland.

Across the region, 4.8 million DIY kits will be distributed by 2020, funded by global health initiative Unitaid.

Amon Mpofu, monitoring and evaluation director at the National AIDS Council, said Zimbabwes testing levels have increased with the kits which help to tackle the stigma of HIV, especially for sexual minorities.

Its very convenient because they can test themselves anytime and access treatment services, and live longer when they have got HIV, said Mpofu.

Talent Jumo, director of Katswe Sistahood, a group working on girls sexual health in Harare, said self-testing had been well-received by young women, partly due to easy access.

The idea of having self-testing kits on a shop counter or in a healthcare centre has helped demystify and destigmatise HIV, she said.

There has also been an increase in the number of men who have sex with men accessing HIV self-testing services through peer educator programmes, said Chester Samba, director of GALZ, an association for Zimbabwes LGBTI community.

Samba said support systems had been put in place for sexual minorities whether their test results are positive or negative.

For young women like 21-year-old barmaid Keyla Mahuni the self-test kits have been a life changer.

I could have just lived in the dark and fallen sick because I was afraid of visiting public testing centres, but thanks to self-testing, I now know my HIV status and went on treatment earlier, she said.

"It was hard at first to accept my condition, but surely life has to go on."
HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP)  As Zimbabwes president preaches democratic reform in a country emerging from decades of repression, the scenes of soldiers dispersing opposition protesters after a disputed election have cast a shadow on promises of a new era.

Speaking to reporters after being declared the winner of the first vote since the fall of former mentor Robert Mugabe, a relaxed-looking President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday praised the flowering of freedom.

But some observers said Zimbabwes future depends on whether he can convince the military hardliners and former generals who make up his inner circle to share his vision.

After decades as Mugabes enforcer amid killings of thousands of people in Matabeleland in the 1980s, land seizures from white farmers and elections marred by violence, the 75-year-old Mnangagwa now faces what might be his biggest challenge: asserting control over the security apparatus that put him in office.

Jubilant Zimbabweans cheered the military in November when it rolled into the capital, Harare, and pressured Mugabe to resign after 37 years in power.

But when troops returned to the streets on Wednesday amid gunfire that left six people dead, there were no longer hugs, kisses and selfies. Residents fled, and when Mnangagwas election win was announced the reaction was subdued, not celebratory.

We have removed Mugabe but not Mugabe-ism, opposition leader Nelson Chamisa said.

Asked whether he was confident that the government and military support his claims of democracy, Mnangagwa said: I cannot guarantee that everybody will share my vision. But I believe that the majority of my party members, as well as the generality of Zimbabweans, will share that vision.

It was not immediately clear who ordered the military into the streets. Under Zimbabwes constitution only the president has the power to authorize the deployment of defense forces. Police have said they invited the military to step in under a law that says they can do so, but some Zimbabwean lawyers said the constitution remains supreme.

Mnangagwa has refused to say whether he knew in advance about the militarys deployment and has not publicly criticized its actions. While hearings began on Saturday for opposition supporters accused of inciting violence in Wednesdays protests, there was no sign of action taken against soldiers. The president has said he will appoint a commission of inquiry once he is sworn in.

How (Mnangagwa) manages the internal dynamics will have a strong bearing on how his democratic project pans out, said political analyst Alexander Rusero in Harare. Unelected power will define his path if he fails to take strong measures to impose his will on the military and others close to him.

Zimbabwes military has a history of siding with the ruling party and was often been accused of deploying in rural areas to intimidate villagers into voting for Mugabe, according to Human Rights Watch. The opposition ahead of Mondays peaceful election raised concerns that soldiers were applying that pressure again.

While Mugabe maintained control of the military for most of his rule, the military now appears to control Mnangagwa, said Dewa Mavhinga, the Human Rights Watch director for southern Africa.

It appears the military is fully in charge after Wednesdays actions, Mavhinga told The Associated Press. The one chance to press the reset button and make a clean break with the past has been lost following the actions of the military in the full glare of the international community.

Unlike Mugabe, Mnangagwa has attempted to take a conciliatory tone in public and extend a hand to the opposition, mindful that the international community is watching closely while considering whether to lift sanctions and invest in the once-prosperous country.

While the president speaks of freedom of expression, however, the main opposition party accuses soldiers of detaining, assaulting and intimidating supporters in parts of the capital. Police raided the partys headquarters on Thursday and arrested 18 people.

Is he even in charge? Gladys Hlatywayo, a political analyst in Harare, asked of Mnangagwa. The military put him in power, he is answerable to them.

Constantino Chiwenga, the general behind the military operation against Mugabe, is Mnangagwas deputy in the ruling party and was appointed a vice president. Another general who announced the operation on television, Sibusiso Moyo, is now foreign affairs minister.

The opposition has expressed concern about possible fissures in the establishment, including the military. While addressing the ruling partys parliamentary candidates in March, Mnangagwa claimed that he was aware of an internal plot to impeach him after the elections.

One theory is that there is a parallel authority headed by ambitious securocrats which have control of the security institutions, said Alex Magaisa, a political analyst and law lecturer at Britains University of Kent. That is the problem when power has been delivered to you by others. They own you. They see you as a placeholder, a puppet who has no need to be consulted.

If Mnangagwa had to rely on the military to win the election he remains in its grasp, Magaisa said.
The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) says the government has intensified its crackdown on opposition political party supporters after arresting more people following protests staged in Harare after the announcement of results for the harmonised elections held last Monday.

The lawyers group said over the weekend, the Zimbabwe Republic Police arrested three people - Simbarashe Zvobgo, Trymore Mubaiwa and Searchmore Mutegude - bringing the total number of people arrested since last week to 27.

It said 25 people were initially arrested last Thursday and charged with committing public violence as defined in Section 36 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.

They include David Zvavamwe Shambare, Shadreck Mashayamombe, Tapiwa Joni, Ngonidzashe Makazhu, Michael Mheta, Simbarashe Mujeye, Judith Chacha, Lilian Mahosi, Anna Chezhira, Angeline Mukoki, Agatha Mubaiwa, Chancellor Nyamande, Livenice Kachana, Tichaona Daniel, Farai Nyamhunga, Mercy Mataramvura, Munyaradzi Chibanda, Samson Nerwande, Raymond Machakaire, Tapiwa Naume Khamu, Tendai Torerwa, Christopher Nikisi, Tonderai Chakona and Justin Mugashu.

Zvobgo, Mubaiwa and Mutegude appeared in court on Monday 06 together with 24 others. Attorneys representing them applied for their release from custody on bail, which the National Prosecution Authority represented by Michael Reza opposed.

In their bail application, Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights lawyers - Gift Mtisi, Kossam Ncube, Lizwe Jamela and Denford Halimani and James Makiyi of Makiyi and Partners Legal Practitioners, who are representing the 27 people, denied that their clients committed the alleged offence.

The human rights lawyers told Harare Magistrate Nyasha Vhitorini that most of their clients were arrested at Morgan Tsvangirai House, where they had gone to surrender some election return materials and where they were waiting to receive their transport and food allowances after serving as election agents for the MDC Alliance party in Uzumba Maramba-Pfungwe constituency in Mashonaland East province during the just-ended harmonised elections.

The ZLHR lawyers stated that their clients, who also include some MDC Alliance party employees, had sought refuge and locked themselves inside Morgan Tsvangirai House, from where they were arrested by ZRP officers, after some members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces began firing gunshots outside the opposition partys headquarters.

At least six people were gunned down last Wednesday when the army opened fire and killed innocent civilians during street protests staged by suspected MDC Alliance activists in Harare, angered by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commissions delay in announcing results of the presidential election.

ZEC announced that Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zanu PF beat Nelson Chamisa of the MDC Alliance in the presidential poll. The Alliance rejected the outcome of the election saying the figures released by ZEC were fraudulent.
By: CHRISTOPHER TORCHIA, Associated Press

HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP) - Zimbabwe's main opposition party will make a statement on Tuesday about its plans to challenge the country's election results in the courts, though it believes the judicial system is biased against it, a party spokesman said.

Nkululeko Sibanda, an official in the Movement for Democratic Change party, also charged Monday that security forces are acting with a "sense of impunity" in alleged raids on the homes of opposition supporters.

Some MDC members are in hiding and "a large number" are "unaccounted for," Sibanda said. He did not say exactly how many people might be missing, and could not confirm whether they were in custody or had temporarily left their homes to hide.

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission says President Emmerson Mnangagwa and the ruling ZANU-PF party won the July 30 election. The opposition says the results are fraudulent. International election observers have urged any aggrieved Zimbabweans to take election complaints to the courts.

A total of 27 opposition activists who were arrested for allegedly inciting violence appeared in court on Monday. They include three who were arrested over the weekend, said Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights.

Most of the activists were detained last week at the opposition party's headquarters where "they had gone to surrender some election return materials and where they were waiting to receive their transport and food allowances after serving as election agents," the lawyers' group said.

The arrests followed a military crackdown in downtown Harare after protesters, some throwing rocks and damaging property, took to the streets to allege that the election was rigged. Soldiers opened fire, and six people, including bystanders, were killed.

In an interview with Sky News, Mnangagwa said politics should take a "backseat" and that the country must unite to build its shattered economy.

"Those who voted against me, those who vote for me, we say Zimbabwe is ours together. Let's move on," said Mnangagwa, an ex-vice president who took over from Robert Mugabe. The former longtime leader resigned after a military takeover in November.
The Heads of Mission of the EU, Canada, Switzerland and the United States of America have expressed grave concern over the eruption of violence and serious human rights violations in Zimbabwe following the peaceful election on 30 July 2018.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, the European Union Delegation, the Heads of Mission of EU Member States present in Harare and the Heads of Mission of Canada, Switzerland and the United States of America, said these tragic events stand in sharp contrast to the high hopes and expectations for a peaceful, inclusive, transparent and credible election in Zimbabwe.

The Heads of Mission condemn the violence, attacks, and acts of intimidation targeted at opposition leaders and supporters. These human rights violations have no place in a democratic society and contravene the fundamental tenets of international human rights standards.

The Heads of Mission urge the government to respect the rights of the Zimbabwean people as enshrined in the Constitution. All allegations of incitement to violence or violent acts, as well as vandalism and destruction of property, should be investigated in accordance with the rule of law, and perpetrators held legally responsible.

The Heads of Mission welcomed President-elect Emmerson Mnangagwas commitment to establish an independent commission to investigate the violence against civilians and look forward to the commission starting its work as soon as possible and reporting its findings in a transparent manner.

The Heads of Mission call on the Government to ensure that the Zimbabwean Defence Forces act with restraint, in full respect of international human rights norms and their constitutional role. The Heads of Mission call on all stakeholders to act responsibly, to adhere to the principles of the Peace Pledge, to pursue peaceful and legal resolution of their grievances and to uphold the integrity of the political and electoral process.

Several political parties entered a peace agreement before the polls conducted last Monday and won by Mnangagwa and his ruling Zanu PF party.

The Movement for Democratic Alliance led by Nelson Chamisa has rejected the election results saying they are fraudulent.

In the presidential election Mnangagwa won 50.8% of the votes cast compared to Chamisas 44.3%.

Mnangagwa insists that the elections were free, fair, credible and transparent.

EU Member States present in Harare include France, Germany, Greece, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
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The lighthouse of the Thyrrhenian Sea - thanks to its typical, regular explosions that coined the term "strombolian activity", Stromboli is one of the most famous and photogenic volcanoes in the world.
The most meaningful impact of all of this is its effect on what investors expect to pay for broad market exposure, which is now, at least in the case of a pair of Fidelity funds, nothing, said Ben Johnson, director of global exchange traded funds and passive strategies research at Morningstar.
Last year, as Todd Gray and his wife, Ellen Kassoff, prepared to open their 165-seat, Mediterranean-inspired restaurant at the Museum of the Bible, they faced a culinary conundrum. The name they had settled on for the eatery was Manna, a reference to the food God sent down to the Israelites after their escape from Egypt in the Bible. But if the restaurant was to be called Manna, they wanted to be able to serve it to their guests. "Oh my gosh," Gray recalls thinking. "Where are we going to get manna?"
I made the effort to contact the school and share a little bit of information about what was going on to cause him some anxiety, says Kane, who lives in Loudoun County. It was quieter and more relaxed than a large event, and gave her son time to ask questions. It took away some of the little bits that tend to exacerbate their anxiety, like where are you going, where is your locker. Theres still the anxiety of meeting new people, but it allows for an opportunity to dissipate some of the other anxiety.
Joaquin has spent the summer working four days a week inside a small room at the Mayors Office of Veterans Affairs. (Every Friday, he attends career training at the Washington Center.) There are no pictures on the white walls, but the office is his. Over the past two months Joaquin has built a database, met with veterans who need assistance, facilitated meetings and manned the front desk when the receptionist stepped away. At night, rather than frequent happy hours like so many other interns, Joaquin goes home to his wife.
 They dont have to start or finish with anapests: All the lines in Stephens limerick above happen to start with an anapest, which is two weak syllables followed by an accented one  notice that the first boldface word in each line doesnt show up unti the third syllable. But the Empress (as well as OEDILF) does NOT care if all the lines begin with the two weak beats of an anapest, and end with a strong beat. Instead, they can begin with one weak beat, or just come right in on the strong beat. Likewise, at the end of the line, you can add one or more weak beats as part of an extended rhyme (e.g., TALK-ing and WALK-ing; CRED-ible and ED-ible).
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The lawsuit was filed on behalf of 12 migrants from Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala  eight women, one man and three children. All failed their initial credible fear interviews, which is one of the first steps for asylum seekers in the fast-track removal process. Two of the children and their mothers have been deported; the rest of the plaintiffs are detained in Texas and New York. None were separated from their children.
He pressed Pennsylvania in particular to help clear the blanket of debris unleashed into the Chesapeake after last months historic rain. The cresting floodwaters forced the Conowingo Dams operator to open as many as 20 of more than 50 floodgates designed to relieve pressure and lower the water level behind the dam. Since then, tree trunks, trash, tires and other flotsam have poured down the Susquehanna River through the floodgates and into the bay.
Throughout the 1970s, Ms. Heckler was a leading proponent of the Equal Rights Amendment, an effort to enshrine equal rights for women in the Constitution. When the ratification process slowed in the late 1970s, she was a co-sponsor of resolution to extend the deadline for states to approve the measure. She continued to argue in favor of the ERA at the 1980 Republican National Convention, even as her party grew less receptive to liberal views. (In the end, the ERA was not adopted.)
She was Canadian, and she and her husband were living for a while in London on work assignment, Ed wrote. Just before landing, when she learned that I had a 13-hour layover at Heathrow before the final hop to Dulles, she invited me to come home and stay at their place. A driver picked us up at the airport, and upon getting home, she treated me to dinner at a 300-year-old pub and then drove me around that part of London to see the sights.
The stakes are high because the man Kavanaugh would replace, Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, cast the deciding vote on a key affirmative action case two years ago. He joined the courts liberal justices to uphold the University of Texass limited use of race as a factor in admissions. In an earlier case involving the racial makeup of public school districts, Kennedy declined to join conservatives in saying race could not be considered. These issues seem certain to return to the Supreme Court because admissions practices at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina are already facing legal challenges.
Under an auto in a suburb of Washington D.C. over the weekend a wild animal was spotted whose very name suggested the need to proceed with caution. It was a snapping turtle, and the name is suggestive of the power of the reptiles jaws.
Less than a month later, on April 13, Veronica Youngblood had a change of heart. She hired a new lawyer to request the custody order be amended, court records show. She said that since the entry of the March order, she had been offered a new job that would pay her a full-time salary and allow her to remain in Virginia. She also said that she was in the process of relocating to a new residence to live apart from her ex-husband and support herself without his help. She sought full custody of Brooklynn.
The Atlantic Coast project is the bigger of the two, and is being built by a consortium of companies led by Dominion Energy. It would carry natural gas 600 miles from West Virginia through central Virginia and down into North Carolina. Tree-felling for the project stopped in Virginia in March, and the state has not yet given final approval to erosion and sediment control plans, so work on that pipeline in the state was on hold even before the federal permit revocations.
Taylor said he knew that members of his staff were collecting signatures for Brown to qualify to be on the ballot but did not direct the effort. Im not dumb, the congressman said in an interview. If [Brown gets] on the ballot, its probably worse for Elaine than it is for me. So what? They shouldnt have disenfranchised her.
As a community, it is on all of us to stand up for our neighbors, the statement said. We must send a message loud and clear to the President and Congress that we are not a country of fear and cruelty, that we know these inhumane actions do not make us any safer, and that this is not the type of leadership, or lack thereof, that Americans want.
Theres a misperception about what todays students are really like, said Katharine Broton, an assistant professor in educational policy and leadership studies at the University of Iowa who has published research on food and housing insecurity in colleges. Many of them dont fit the profile of a typical student who attends a four-year institution full time and doesnt have a job, Broton said. Rather, about 40 percent of students today are working in addition to going to school, and nearly 1 in 4 are parents.
The new agreement seems flimsy. Mr. Kiir will remain in power and appears to have simply sliced and diced South Sudans government into more tiny pieces to placate his rival. The agreement creates a transition period during which Mr. Machar will again become first vice president; the government will include 20 ministers from Mr. Kiirs party, nine from Mr. Machars and six from other groups; parliament will be expanded from 400 seats to 550, including 338 from Mr. Kiirs group and 128 from Mr. Machars, and the remainder from others. The document says that decision-making in the presidency should be in the spirit of collegial collaboration but that is hard to imagine after so much blood has been spilled. Analyst Alan Boswell told the the Associated Press that twice before, in 2013 and 2016, Mr. Kiir violently expelled Mr. Machar when he was bidding for power. Both events led to large-scale atrocities, Mr. Boswell said. This peace deal sets up the exact same scenario for the third time. When it fails, it fails explosively.
KISUTU Resident Magistrates Court yesterday granted application by Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister and Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to have former Tanzanian police officer Hamadi Kanama extradited to Kenya to face criminal proceedings.

Senior Resident Magistrate Kelvin Mhina took into consideration a number of issues to allow the application, which was successfully argued by State Attorney Constantine Kakula, including the two East African nations having a treat for extradition of fugitive criminals.

Standard of extradition proceedings has been met and I proceed to grant the committal order of the fugitive criminal to prison pending the decision by the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs to surrender him to Kenya, he declared.

Documents filed in the Dar es Salaam court to support the application indicate that Kinama faces prosecution before Kenyan courts for theft of a motor vehicle, Toyota Succeed valued at 900,000 Kenyan shillings.

Among the documents presented before the court include a diplomatic note of the DPP, warrant of arrest issued by the Chief Resident Magistrate of Mombasa and an affidavit sworn by a Kenyan police officer, who investigated the matter.

There was also a specialty undertaking by the Kenyan DPP that the fugitive criminal will be prosecuted on the offence under which he was extradited. When determining the application, the magistrate noted that both Kenya and Tanzania are commonwealth countries.
Meanwhile, Belgian law trusts experts to prevent mistakes or abuses. Doctors must verify that a child is in a hopeless medical situation of constant and unbearable suffering that cannot be eased and which will cause death in the short term. After a child makes his or her wish for euthanasia known, in writing, child psychiatrists conduct examinations, including, Proot told me, intelligence tests, to determine that the youngster is capable and not influenced by a third party. Parents can, however, prevent the request from being carried out.
Chinas future is ultimately hostage to a paradox: On one hand, this great nation seeks to reach out to the world, as it failed to do when first given the chance some seven centuries ago. But at the same time, China seeks to wall its people off from the free flow of ideas and information so essential to the globalized West. No nation can have it both ways. If you dive into the pool, youre going to get wet.
In fact, in some ways, Trump is conducting himself more frantically than Nixon, all the while protesting his innocence. Nixon fought to the end because he knew that what was on the tape recordings that the prosecutor wanted would incriminate him. We dont know what Trump is hiding, if anything. But if he is innocent of any wrongdoing, why not let Robert S. Mueller III do his job and prove it?
Here is what the United States needs to do. In terms of self-defense, it must secure the nations elections system, especially the software that holds data on registered voters. Every vote should be tallied on a backup paper ballot that could be used to verify election results, if necessary. New rules and better enforcement are needed to keep foreign money out of U.S. elections. The federal government should work with individual campaigns to fortify the security of the technology and networks they use. Finally, better coordination across the government is needed to protect U.S. elections, which would probably best be achieved by creating a Hybrid Threats Center similar to the National Counterterrorism Center.
Thats an example of the military-modernization questions that kept nagging participants at last weekends gathering of the Aspen Strategy Group, which annually brings together top-level current and former national security officials, along with a few journalists, to discuss defense and foreign policy. This years focus was on Maintaining Americas Edge in the dawning era of high-tech combat, and the big takeaway was this: The future of warfare is now, and China is poised to dominate it.
On that day, his wife, Alejandra, left the country under a deportation order. She had come to the United States from Mexico illegally as a teenager two decades ago and had until now being living undisturbed with Temo, a naturalized U.S. citizen, and daughters, both natural-born Americans. This week, Temo will fly to Mexico with his daughters, 9-year-old Estela and 16-year-old Pamela  and leave his younger daughter there, even though English is her first language. He cant do his construction job and take care of her in Florida by himself.
For example, thanks to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, we know that higher-wage employees are more likely to be offered a wellness program at work. And thanks to decades of social-science research, we also know that people with higher incomes tend to be healthier. This is true even when they use precisely the same health care as those who dont earn as much: The famous Whitehall Studies of British civil servants from the 1960s to the 1980s found that senior bureaucrats fared much better than those in the lower tiers, even though they were all covered by Britains National Health Service.
The senator, meanwhile, has not held back on his criticism of Trump. After last months summit between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Helsinki, McCain issued a scathing statement in which he said that Trump proved not only unable, but unwilling to stand up to Putin and that no prior president has ever abased himself more abjectly before a tyrant.
Yet the most tangible result of the June 12 summit so far has been last weeks handover by North Korea of the remains of more than 50 service members killed in the Korean War. The question of denuclearization remains a separate one, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has said, and U.S. and North Korean diplomats traded jabs on the issue at last weekends annual conference of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
I am proud of the partnership with this administration to begin rebuilding our military and the presidents visit is an important opportunity to highlight this achievement and to thank our men and women in uniform for their service, Stefanik said in a statement announcing Trumps visit. I look forward to welcoming President Trump to Fort Drum and continuing to work to ensure our troops have the resources they need to keep us safe.
Voters in Washington state chose a Democratic nominee to run for the seat of retiring Rep. Dave Reichert (R). Republicans backed Dino Rossi, a state senator who has run twice for governor and once for the U.S. Senate. Kim Schrier, a physician, has been endorsed by Emilys List and most labor unions, while Jason Rittereiser, a lawyer, has argued that his rural roots would make him more electable in November.
The protests showed . . . what should be done, what the government should do, what the people should do, said Ilias Kanchon, a Bangladeshi movie star and advocate for road safety. You can see a result already today in Dhaka. The number of vehicles is very limited today. The reason is that no one is taking their car out without having the proper document or proper license for their driver.
Wu said offending airlines might be banned from using the air bridges that allow passengers to board the plane, or from getting plum time slots for landing or take off. The ministry is also considering a plan to reward airlines that adopt more neutral language, such as by reducing the fees they pay to use Taiwans airports.
Other than now in Israel, there is no constitution in the world today containing a clause that determines that the state belongs to one ethnic group or that a given state is exclusive to a certain ethnic group, said Tuesdays petition, which was submitted by the Israeli human rights group Adalah and also signed by the High Follow-Up Committee for Arab Citizens of Israel and the National Committee of Arab Mayors.
If this new assassination was carried out by Mossad, it was the latest in a long line of Israeli attacks targeting Syrian weapons capabilities and development. Israel has carried out more than 100 airstrikes against targets in Syria since 2012, aimed either at Iranian military facilities or at attempts to transfer sophisticated weapons to the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon.
It was hard to keep warm, one Honduran mother, identified only as Maria A, said in a sworn statement. When other people would leave there would be extra blankets so we would try to take them to have more to keep warm but the guards would notice we had more blankets and they would take them from us so we only had one, her statement says. Marias 4-year-old son had become very sick because of the cold, it notes.
Gates worked for Manafort for more than a decade before the pair were indicted last year on bank fraud and tax charges. In February, Gates pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI and conspiring against the United States. Under sentencing guidelines, he could get roughly five to six years in prison for those crimes, but he said he hopes his cooperation with the government will result in less time behind bars.
The federal government is being urged to scrap its plan to allow health insurance companies to offer discounts to young adults, with critics warning this will only increase the prevalence of low-value junk policies.

In its proposed overhaul of private health insurance last year, federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said the government would allow health funds to give discounts of up to 10 per cent on hospital cover to people aged 18 to 29 with the larger aim of improving affordability.

Choice says the federal government's age-based discount plan is flawed. Credit:Shutterstock

But consumer advocacy group Choice said this plan was "flawed", arguing it will lead to health funds luring young people into poor-value policies they don't need.

While the cost of private health insurance is one of the top concerns that needs to be addressed, cost cannot be looked at in isolation," Choice's Katinka Day said.
Washington: Months after severing ties with Taiwan, Burkina Faso says it's counting on Chinese money to get large infrastructure projects off the ground, including a key highway linking the West African nation's two main cities.

Burkina Faso broke off diplomatic relations with Taipei in May in favour of China, leaving the tiny kingdom of Swaziland as the island's last African ally and cutting the number of countries that recognise Taiwan to 18. The decision came after the government looked at what countries with resources similar to those of Burkina Faso were able to do with Chinese backing, Foreign Minister Alpha Barry said.

"We thought it better to leave," Barry said in an interview. "China offers opportunities to achieve our projects, and Chinese companies are among the best in the world."
NEW DELHI: Hit-run driver Puneet Puneet's long extradition case has been drawn out again after he and his lawyer failed to obey a court order to obtain an official psychiatric assessment.

The judge for Tuesday's hearing in India's capital was aghast after learning that Puneet, 29, and his counsel had ignored her "black-and-white" instructions.

In July, Puneets counsel Kanhaiya Kumar Singhal had insisted that Puneet had the right to be assessed by a panel of psychiatrists to prove his claim of being mentally unfit and consequently be unable to be extradited to Australia.

Hit-run driver Puneet Puneet (right) leaves court with his uncle in New Dehli in June.

During the July hearing, Singhal variously claimed that Puneet suffered from multiple diseases and was also a schizophrenic who has attempted suicide.
STAMFORD  Seconds after Board of Representatives President Matthew Quinones opened balloting on a motion to reject a zoning change that would allow large fitness centers to be built in the citys struggling office parks, the lights beside the names on the electronic voting board began to glow.

One by one, they clicked on green. It meant representatives were voting to reverse the Zoning Board decision. It meant regulations will not be changed to accommodate such fitness centers.

Residents who filled the seats and stood along the walls in the boards legislative chambers at the Stamford Government Center Monday night clapped and cheered, shouting thank you to the representatives.

The residents, who in an unusual move petitioned the 40-member board to take up the matter, needed at least 21 green lights to flip the Zoning Board decision. They got 35.

There were absences and abstentions, but no representative opposed the motion to overturn the Zoning Board.

The vote culminates a 15-month battle in which residents pooled their money to hire an attorney to go up against George Comfort & Sons, owner of High Ridge Office Park, where the company wanted to build a 100,000-square-foot, indoor-outdoor facility for a prospective tenant, the high-end chain Life Time Fitness.

I dont know that the board has ever had a unanimous vote on something so contentious, said Rep. Eric Morson, D-13. Im thrilled because residents feel like their efforts werent for naught. The city system worked for the benefit of the people.

Morson said office parks, which are losing tenants, need to be repurposed, and some type of fitness center in the Ridges would be good.

Just not on that scale, and not in that location, he said. I didnt see any way to mitigate noise and traffic with a facility like that in High Ridge Office Park or any of the others that would be affected by the zoning change.

Mayor calling

Morson said Mayor David Martin and his chief of staff, Michael Pollard, called some representatives before the vote to try to persuade them to support the Zoning Board ruling.

I understand that. Its the mayors job to get new tenants into these office parks and build the tax base. He has to raise revenue so taxes dont go up, he said. At the same time, neighborhoods have to be protected. How do you balance those two things without hurting somebody? Its an impossible act. But I feel like we really served the public with this vote.

Not all would agree. Word of the vote Monday night filtered down the hall to the room where Zoning Board members were on a break from a discussion of affordable housing and a proposed Chick Fil A restaurant for Bulls Head.

Zoning Board members and land-use consultants there to win support for their proposals were not surprised, since the representatives Land Use Committee recommended an overturn last week.

Rosanne McManus, a Republican Zoning Board member, appeared irritated.

Why even have a Zoning Board? McManus asked.

So did Rick Redniss, a prominent land-use consultant.

Elections have consequences, Redniss said, a reference to November, when voters chose several newcomers for the Board of Representatives.

Some new members identify themselves as reform Democrats and ran on residents concerns about overbuilt neighborhoods, traffic congestion, and diminishing quality of life because of what they view as poorly managed development.

Now to court?

Geoff Thompson, spokesperson for George Comfort & Sons, said the vote is disappointing and does nothing to address the underlying issue confronting Stamfords office parks.

They were designed in another era, and while they are still viable, they will not remain so if they are not allowed to adapt to meet todays market realities, Thompson said in an email.

The company and the Zoning Board heard neighbors concerns and incorporated numerous modifications and protections to address them, Comfort said.

The fact remains that additional uses must also be permitted if the office parks are to continue as important contributors to the citys tax base, Thompson said. Other communities throughout the region are successfully adapting and Stamford must do the same.

The company has not decided whether to appeal the Board of Representatives action in court, he said.

In the coming days we will review our legal options as we continue to seek viable solutions to a very real economic concern for all Stamford residents and taxpayers, Thompson said.

Steven Grushkin, the Stamford attorney representing residents of Sterling Lake condominiums, which abut High Ridge Office Park, and others from the Turn of River neighborhood, said an appeal to the court would be fruitless.

From our point of view, the Board of Representatives as a legislative body has an absolute right to make the decision they did, Grushkin said. Its very difficult for the judicial branch to overturn the legislative branch unless its for good, solid reasons.

Improper use

Neither residents nor his firm are anti-development, he said.

No one questions there have to be other uses for the office parks, Grushkin said. The application did not give consideration to what would be a proper adaptive reuse of that property and any property in a C-D zone. Thats what it was about.

Residents who said they were fighting to protect their homes attended repeated meetings of the Planning Board, which also rejected the change, and then the Zoning Board.

After the Zoning Board approval, residents gathered signatures on a petition to have representatives review the decision. But city attorneys voided most of the petition, saying many signatures were invalid.

Residents then asked representatives to determine the validity of the petition. Under authority of the Charter, representatives voted to do that then voted to review the Zoning Board decision.

Representatives said they took their constituents views to heart. Some explained their thinking before voting.

Rep. Bob Lion, D-19, said the zoning change was worded specifically for Life Time Fitness, as it is in their way of doing business to include outdoor uses. The inclusion of the outdoor use, which is not an adaptive use of the current office park, I think was done to make it attractive to Life Time Fitness.

Rep. Alice Liebson, D-11, said her family owned a home in North Stamford, a neighborhood on the other side of the Merritt Parkway from Turn of River, for 49 years.

Our familys motto was to keep North Stamford woodsy, green and quiet, Liebson said.

Staff Writer Barry Lytton contributed to this report.

acarella@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2296.
Alexandra Burke will rejoin the cast of the Olivier Award-winning musical The Bodyguard, which embarks on a new UK tour at the end of the year.

Based on the 1992 Oscar-nominated film from Lawrence Kasdan which starred Whitney Houston, the piece opened at the Adelphi Theatre in 2012, starring Heather Headley, where it won Best New Musical at the WhatsOnStage Awards and was nominated for four Olivier Awards.

It toured for 18 months in 2015, before returning to the West End at the Dominion Theatre in 2016 with Beverley Knight and then Burke in the lead role. Our review of the production described the show as a "glitzy, energetic night out."

Telling the story of the amorous relationship between superstar Rachel Marron and her bodyguard Frank Farmer, the show includes classic tunes such as "Queen of the Night", "I Wanna Dance with Somebody" and "I Will Always Love You". Further casting for the new tour is to be announced.

The new UK tour will open at Glasgow Theatre Royal in December before touring to Hull, Southend, Liverpool, Milton Keynes, Bristol, Cardiff, Norwich, Canterbury, Southampton, Nottingham and Wolverhampton, with further dates to be released. Burke will not feature in the show in Southampton, Nottingham or Wolverhampton.

It's a busy year for X Factor winner Burke  whose stage credits also include Sister Act and the recent revival of Chess  as it was recently announced that she will join the West End cast of Chicago as Roxie Hart later this month.
Include a visit to The Dark Side of F Street in your Halloween hauntings! Take some canned foods and grocery ...

When you see the flags flying at schools, you dont generally think about who put them up or how they...
Winnipeg mom Julie Michaud is skeptical whenever she comes across a natural claim for beauty product.

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This article was published 7/8/2018 (1178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Winnipeg mom Julie Michaud is skeptical whenever she comes across a "natural" claim for beauty product.

"What you define as natural may be different from what someone else defines as natural, " says the 35-year-old entrepreneur.

"For example, for some people it might mean taking a flower, crushing it and then they have something natural to offer."

By the same token a product might have "natural" ingredients that are lab-made chemicals derived from a plant or animal.

Michaud tends to spend a little more time than the average person thinking about what goes into cosmetics and other beauty products. She is the owner of Portia-Ella at the Outlet Collection Winnipeg Mall. The store specializes in cosmetics and other personal-care products made by Canadian companies, and Michaud prefers an alternative term to "natural" to describe all the goods available in their store.

"We use ethical because it refers to ethical practices."

To Michaud, "ethical" encompasses doing no harm, or as little as possible.

That involves plenty of considerations  from taking care of the environment, animals and communities on the other side of the world to more local concerns, including our own bodies, of course.

And Michaud may be onto something.

A display of foundation powders boasting non-chemical ingredients at Portia-Ella in the Outlet Collection Winnipeg Mall. (Andrew Ryan / Winnipeg Free Press)

More consumers are drawn to products that are ethical, which involve fair-trade practices and strive to eliminate ingredients containing potentially harmful chemicals to the environment and human health, according to a 2017 industry trend report by Mordor Intelligence.

The trend is welcome by one of Canadas leading researchers on chemicals used in consumer products.

Dr. Meg Sears is the scientific chair of Prevent Cancer Now, a non-profit focused on preventing cancer through research, awareness, education and advocacy.

A PhD in chemical engineering, she lauds the efforts of small businesses like Portia-Ella, and the Canadian brands it carries, because they are at the vanguard of best practices.

"I think theyve got the right approach, and thats taking the least toxic options."

While products on the market today are deemed safe by Health Canada, based on scientific research, Sears argues the current testing model for safety does not consider the effects of long-term exposure.

"When a company wants approval for a chemical, its going to test at high doses because that is the classical method for toxicology," says Sears, a research associate at the Childrens Hospital of Eastern Ontarios Research Institute.

This kind of testing often shows clear-cut effects. Based on those findings, regulators often set acceptable, low-dose levels for chemicals found in everything from packaging to food to lipstick, soap and toys.

Sears argues testing provides an incomplete snapshot of a chemicals potential to harm to human health. A more effective measure would examine the impact of "environmentally relevant doses." This would not only evaluate the long-term exposure to low levels of a chemical found in one consumer product. It would also look at the implications of bio-accumulation based on the notion we are not exposed to the same chemical through just one product. The substance is often used in multiple products that millions of consumers use. As a result, the compound often builds up in the environment, in turn increasing our exposure through the air we breathe, the food we eat and the water we drink.

Moreover consumers of beauty products, for example, may not even know they are being exposed to low doses of chemicals shown to be harmful at higher doses and suspected to play a role in rising rates of cancer and other diseases.

Some experts suggest cosmetics shoppersread the label of ingredients, and to be wary of the vague term fragrance. (Andrew Ryan / Winnipeg Free Press)

For instance, Sears points to one widely used class of chemicals called phthalates, which are often added to fragrances to make them last longer.

More than a 1,000 different phthalates are used in multiple products, "and all that have been tested show some kind of endocrine disrupting properties," she adds.

"What that (an endocrine disruptor) means is a chemical looks enough like a hormone in terms of binding to particular sites in the body."

And this has the potential to mess around with many of the bodys chemical processes, including cell division.

"For example in the very first days of development of an embryo, there is chemical signalling that determines how the brain will develop," Sears says.

Any process involving a hormone  insulin, included  could be affected. In fact, phthalates have been associated with diabetes, excess weight gain and insulin resistance in human studies, as listed on the non-profit website diabetesandenvironment.org. They could also impact brain health. Sears points to a recent study, published in The Journal or Neuroscience, involving rats and that showing low doses of these chemicals led to neuro-developmental problems.

Yet beauty-product consumers seeking to reduce exposure face challenges because phthalates often do not show up on the list of ingredients. Instead, the compounds are often listed under the catch-all fragrance.

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"Fragrances are really a black box of who knows what," Sears says, adding many companies claim the ingredients are industry secrets.

At Portia-Ella, "fragrance" on products ingredient list is a red flag. Thats why the retailer only carries products with ingredients people can generally easily identify.

"If you ever see something that you doubt, Google it and you can find out what it actually is," Michaud says, adding websites like the Environmental Working Group can be a great resource.

When it comes to beauty products, for Michaud, the best and most straightforward approach is similar to healthy eating.

"Think of it as eating fresh food is better than eating processed food," she says. "What we consume can have a long-term effect on the environment, but it also has an effect on our bodies."

joelschles@gmail.com
The tornado touched down north of Silver Ridge Friday evening. (Clint Robertson photo)
"Domestic castles" come to mind when April Kassum, a longtime resident of Armstrong's Point, looks for words to describe the homes in her neighbourhood.

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This article was published 7/8/2018 (1178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

"Domestic castles" come to mind when April Kassum, a longtime resident of Armstrong's Point, looks for words to describe the homes in her neighbourhood.

During a walk around the secluded downtown community, which is located southeast of West Broadway, on a sunny August day, Kassum points out the century-old houses, neighbours of the Ralph Connor House, the Cornish Library and the streetscape of elm, oak and ash trees.

"Im a long-term Winnipegger, I really know this city, and I choose to live here, I love this city; I think its one of the best-kept secrets in the country," she said. "But the truth is, there isnt a whole lot of spectacular things to see."

However, the heritage enthusiast said Armstrong's Point is an exception.

The solid bi-annual house tour turnouts and the number of bikers, dog-walkers and joggers who enter one of three sets of grand stone gates into the neighbourhood every day are proof of its authenticity and heritage value, she said. Heritage that Kassum, chairwoman of her neighbourhood association's heritage committee, has been working to protect for the last decade.

As early as next month, the neighbourhood that's in a hairpin bend in the Assiniboine River, could be bestowed with a heritage district title  the first of its kind in Winnipeg.

"I think its very fitting. Its a tight little enclave with lots of heritage homes and lots of heritage value to protect," said area councillor Jenny Gerbasi.

The title would protect buildings and natural landscapes to preserve the neighbourhood character. The details will be set out in a city report and the corresponding bylaw is expected in early September.

MAGGIE MACINTOSH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A man drives in Armstrong's Point on Aug. 3 through the West Gate, one of three sets of gates that serve as entry ways into the community, which could soon be the first city neighbourhood to receive a heritage district designation.

When the heritage district bylaw is created, it will serve as a template for all neighbourhoods that want to apply for the designation.

Each heritage district will have its own specific plan and might look different depending on what heritage needs to be preserved, said Jennifer Hansell, superintendent of planning and portfolio management for the city.

In Armstrong's Point, Kassum said that would mean the three sets of gates, homes and streetscape.

Architectural styles and materials used for new builds, building heights, the space between buildings and street widths are the sort of specifics that will be examined, Hansell said.

"We dont want to be the design police, we just need to figure out whats important to each district and how we work to preserve it."

Applications would likely be required for home renovations, said Gerbasi, who has chaired the citys historical buildings and resources committee for nearly two decades. Like any heritage process, the councillor said the heritage district bylaw has taken both a lot of time and patience.

Kassum and the Armstrongs Point Association have been trying to find a way to preserve the neighbourhoods heritage since the early 2000s. She started by calling heritage experts in San Francisco, Victoria, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax. Each city has a bylaw that allows them to preserve neighbourhoods, not just single buildings  which is the only option in Winnipeg.

She seriously considered persuading each of her 120 or so neighbours to apply to get heritage status for their homes, but she quickly found out that would be timely and inefficient when she approached the city. She was told the city was in the process of making the changes necessary to make heritage districts in Winnipeg.

"Winnipeg is a bit of an anomaly," Hansell said about the fact the city has never had such a district type designation.

Kassum said she's constantly doing repairs to upkeep her stately, century-old home on East Gate, where she operates a bed-and-breakfast. (MAGGIE MACINTOSH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS)

"The reason we didnt do it is our charter didnt allow us to. We had to have the provincial charter changed, so we actually had the power to do a district. Once we had the power, it was like, Now how do we actually do this?"

Hansell said the provincial charter was altered around 2010; then came the countless meetings, community consultations and reports, which all lead up to the final city report.

The designation will be "another tool in the heritage toolbox," the heritage expert said. And while Armstrong's Point is first in line, she said other neighbourhoods are interested in the title.

Crescentwood and Point Douglas are two neighbourhoods she sees as prospects for a heritage district designation title; the Exchange District is also "a no-brainer." Hansell said that at present, only individual buildings in the Exchange are protected as heritage sites.

City Coun. John Orlikow confirmed Crescentwood is vying for the title.

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"If people have a sense of place, they invest more into their neighbourhoods and it's good for everybody," he said.

He said he hopes such a designation would help preserve that sense of place for Crescentwood residents.

"I'm not heritage crazy but I do think there is some value in the age of most things. Heck, when my stew in the fridge overnight ages one night, it's better. Wine ages, it's better," Kassum said.

She's excited about the heritage district designation, knowing the houses in the neighbourhood, including her own at 5 East Gate, will be around for decades, Kassum said.

"When I look around, go for a walk in the neighbourhood, I think, 'Just maybe, we can hang onto you.'"

maggie.macintosh@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @macintoshmaggie
Premier Brian Pallister vowed to "get to the bottom" of spotty cellphone service in Alonsa, Man., Monday, three days after an alert system failed to adequately warn area residents of the deadly category-4 tornado that ravaged the community and killed a 77-year-old man Friday night.

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This article was published 6/8/2018 (1178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Premier Brian Pallister vowed to "get to the bottom" of spotty cellphone service in Alonsa, Man., Monday, three days after an alert system failed to adequately warn area residents of the deadly category-4 tornado that ravaged the community and killed a 77-year-old man Friday night.

"I'm going to be inquiring as to what has happened here in terms of the providers and the quality of service," said Pallister, who spent the afternoon in the municipality meeting with officials and residents.

"There could have been absolute devastation here in terms of human loss of life, and that isn't the case today," Premier Brian Pallister said Monday. (Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press files)

"I think that's the question that local people want addressed. They're not looking at blaming, I don't think. They're frankly very pleased that they're alive."

Over the weekend, dozens of Alonsa residents told the Free Press that they were unprepared for the category-4 tornado, which blasted winds of 280 km/h, tore homes and cottages entirely off the ground, caused significant damage to hydro infrastructure, and tossed vehicles in the air.

With poor cell reception in the surrounding area, many people hadn't a clue a storm was on its way until they spotted the tornado and felt the intense winds. A text-message-based alert system sent warnings to some residents, but others didn't receive one until they were already fleeing.

According to a Bell MTS spokesperson, the public alerts on any cellphone service provider's phones equipped with LTE wireless technology can only be received if those phones are connected to an LTE network.

Much of the area surrounding Alonsa is serviced by networks which predate that technology, meaning public alert technology is ineffective or doesn't function at all, the spokesperson said.

Representatives with Rogers and Bell MTS both told the Free Press they are working to address service issues, while Telus didn't respond to a request for comment.

'Premature' to consider incentives to improve service: premier

Association of Manitoba Municipalities executive director Joe Masi says service providers treat coverage in rural communities as a business case, and urged the province to work with those providers to improve cell service.

When asked whether the province would provide an incentive to carriers to improve coverage in the area in the tornado's aftermath, Pallister said it was too early for such a move to be considered.

Shawn Gurke, a resident of Alonsa, watches a truck floating in Lake Manitoba after a tornado hit on Friday. (Melissa Verge / Brandon Sun)

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"I think that's a premature suggestion," he said. "We're continuing to do what we can to work with private providers to encourage that to happen, and there have been some improvements. Obviously here's one [case] where it went backwards. We'll find out why later in the week, I expect."

"I'm trying to look on the bright side, because I know that's exactly what people we've been talking to are doing as well." Premier Brian Pallister

Masi said the association was pleased with Pallister's response, and urges the government to continue to increase rural cell service.

Pallister said he didn't meet with the immediate family of Jack Furrie, the retired teacher killed by the tornado, to respect their request for privacy. He said he was shocked after speaking with residents and seeing the damage the tornado wrought, adding that his government will continue to work with the municipality during its recovery.

Pallister acknowledged the situation could have easily been much worse.

"There could have been absolute devastation here in terms of human loss of life, and that isn't the case today," he told the Free Press. "I guess I'm trying to look on the bright side, because I know that's exactly what people we've been talking to are doing as well."

ben.waldman@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @benjwaldman
The Manitoba governments decision to transfer regulation of the taxi industry to municipalities has led to a competitive free-for-all in bedroom communities north of Winnipeg, said a long-established operator who says his livelihood is threatened.

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This article was published 7/8/2018 (1178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Manitoba governments decision to transfer regulation of the taxi industry to municipalities has led to a competitive "free-for-all" in bedroom communities north of Winnipeg, said a long-established operator who says his livelihood is threatened.

Rural taxi owner Glen Phillips said before the Local Vehicles For Hire Act came into force Feb. 28, Winnipeg taxis were prevented, by provincial regulation, from picking up fares in the four municipalities he serves (although they could deliver passengers to those communities).

That changed when the Progressive Conservatives, led by Premier Brian Pallister, transferred regulation over taxi and ride-hailing services to municipalities. Only the City of Winnipeg was required, under Bill 30, to write a bylaw. Other municipalities have the option of doing so or not.

"Its a free-for-all," said Phillips, owner of Lockport Taxi and its subsidiary, East St. Paul Taxi.

"Ive got no business. If I made $100 a day, Id be happy. Im not even doing that," he said.

At one time, the multi-generational family business operated five cars. It is now running just two.

Phillips has been battling encroachment from city taxi firms for years. The Free Press chronicled his predicament in late 2015.

At that time, rules were in place preventing Winnipeg taxis, such as Unicity and Duffys, from travelling to his territory  the rural municipalities of East St. Paul, West St. Paul, St. Andrews and St. Clements  to pick up fares.

Phillips concern had been the province was failing to enforce its regulations. Now, his beef is there arent any.

Under the new law, city taxis are free to pick up passengers in neighbouring municipalities unless the local governments in those communities create bylaws to keep them out. So far, none of the municipalities Phillips serves has drafted one.

"They dont want to even get involved," he said.

Phillips says Unicity and Duffys are encroaching illegally on his territory and driving him out of business. (Wayne Glowacki / Winnipeg Free Press files)

A lack of local bylaws also means ride-hailing services, such as TappCar, are free to compete with him. He knows of customers who have used the service.

"I was under legislation. Now, Im not. So my business is worthless," he said.

While city taxis are free to pick up rides in Phillips companys territory, a City of Winnipeg spokesman confirmed Lockport Taxi cannot do so in Winnipeg.

The city bylaw allows for a taxi from another jurisdiction to operate in Winnipeg as long as the trip "originates or terminates outside of the city boundary," the spokesman said.

Sheila Mowat, chief administrative officer for the RM of East St. Paul, said the rural municipality is still studying its options and will prepare a report for the local council, which will decide if a bylaw is necessary.

"We havent decided anything yet. Its still on the table to discuss. We just need to do some more research... before we even give it to council for consideration," Mowat said.

RM of St. Andrews Mayor George Pike, who counts himself as one of Phillips customers, said his council has not seen a need for a bylaw.

"Its free enterprise," he said of the current competitive system in his municipality.

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Pike said he also doubts Phillips "can supply the service he thinks he can in our area," noting the municipality is 51.5 kilometres long.

John Morris, a spokesman for TappCar, said in the absence of a bylaw, there is nothing preventing his companys drivers from picking up fares in the four municipalities. He couldnt say how much business the ride-share service is doing in the communities.

TappCar has more than 400 drivers in Winnipeg, and has been operating in Steinbach for a couple of weeks, Morris said.

A government spokesman said Friday the province is aware of seven municipalities other than Winnipeg that currently have bylaws for the purpose of regulating vehicles for hire: Brandon, Gillam, Neepawa, Thompson, Selkirk, The Pas and Portage la Prairie.

larry.kusch@freepress.mb.ca
Deadly tornado: A Category 4 tornado tore through rural Manitoba Friday night, killing one and sending two to hospital with injuries.

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This article was published 7/8/2018 (1178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Deadly tornado: A Category 4 tornado tore through rural Manitoba Friday night, killing one and sending two to hospital with injuries.

Jack Furrie, 77, died after the twister touched down around 8:30 p.m. Friday in the municipality of Alonsa, located on the west side of Lake Manitoba, about 200 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg. An elderly couple was also injured when a wall in their house caved in.

Furries death marked the first tornado fatality in Canada since a man died in the 2011 natural disaster in Goderich, Ont.

The Friday twister was on the ground for 45 minutes in Alonsa, creating mass destruction at Margaret Bruce Beach and the surrounding areas; it left behind a swath of tree damage spanning 800 metres.

Environment Canada has deemed the event a four out of five on the tornado scale. The rating means winds were around 280 km/h, said Natalie Hasell, a warning preparedness meteorologist at the weather agency.

The tornado was initially rated as a Category 3, but Hasell said Monday afternoon they realized it was more severe when they combed over more information.

Hasell said its lucky there was only one death.

"Weve been through a few tornadoes where Ive seen a few trailers flipped and the tops of cabins off, but this one is pretty extensive. Theres a truck that was thrown a good 200 feet into the lake," said Chris Thorleifson, a local resident who hid from the storm in his cabin at nearby Vakker Beach. "Its pretty amazing the damage it did."

Tornado victim Jack Furrie: The 77-year-old who died in Fridays tornado was a dedicated teacher and generous man who was well known in his community, Furries family and friends say.

He was "a good, kind, smart, funny generous man," his grandson Kelly Brown said.

His house was demolished in the tornado; only the foundation remained Saturday.

Furrie lived in a house at the end of a gravel road just off Bluff Creek Road with his dog Brandy when he died. Brown said Saturday the house is "unrecognizable" after the twister. "It doesnt even look like the place I grew up," said Brown, who was raised in the area by his grandparents.

Furrie worked as a teacher in Sandy Bay for more than 25 years. A former colleague said he was dedicated to his job and even came back to volunteer after his retirement.

"He lived a good life and he was well liked," Brown said about his grandfather. "Hell be missed."

What people saw: Nancy Buchanan recalls that Friday was "a nice day"  until her family spotted dark clouds rolling in when they went out for a swim at Margaret Bruce Beach that evening.

At first they thought it was a rainstorm, she said. Hail pellets started coming down as Buchanan, her husband and their nine-year-old son trekked back to the trailer. Dry from the storm, she said they looked outside their window to see people pointing at the sky. Thats when she said they realized they needed to get in their car and drive away quickly.

"At one point, there was actually a rainbow inside. (The funnel cloud) looked kind of pink, but for the most part it was black and it was huge."

The twister sounded "like a freight train," she added. Others heard the sound of their engines as they fled the scene. Laura Cabak of Winnipeg said she heard the sound of children screaming.

Cabak and 13 family members, including seven children, hid in the basement of their cabin when they saw the twister. They "dog-piled" into a heap in the basement as the vicious winds swirled outside.

Their family cabin lifted into the air; only the basement remained.

The cleanup: Structures were gone, trees had lost their leaves, cows had been flung around, tractors had flipped, hydro poles were down and a truck and bales of hay were floating in the lake after the tornado passed through.

When Amaranth fire chief Logan Dumanske, arrived on the scene Friday night, he said that even in the darkness, they could see immense damage. "It looked like the movie Twister," Dumanske said, adding hes never seen such damage while on duty.

It was "a very, very extensive repair," said Scott Powell of Manitoba Hydro.

Hydro crews from Dauphin, Swan River, Neepawa, Russell, Virden and Brandon helped clear and replace broken lines and get rid of trees, he said. While 280 customers had power outages, the majority got their power back by late afternoon Saturday; around 30 others had power by Saturday night.

Whats next for Alonsa: Area residents told the Free Press that unreliable, and for some, non-existent, cellphone service in Alonsa is the norm. The poor connections left many unprepared, having to rely on gloomy clouds approaching as an evacuation sign because they didnt receive emergency weather alerts or text messages from friends and family warning them about the twister until it was too late, if ever.

"We call it the dead zone," said Kimberley Dawn, a Winnipegger who spends summers camping on Vakker Beach in Alonsa. "You cant have an emergency."

Following the twister, Dawn and others are demanding rural areas get better cellphone service.

Service is just as important as food, water, recreation and roads, said Joe Masi of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM). "Its a critical element for having safe and successful communities."

The AMM has been lobbying for better cellphone service in rural pockets for years and has met with carriers and provincial officials about their concerns, Masi said Monday.

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"For (carriers), it has to be viable from a financial point of view; they are private companies. Thats why weve been arguing we need more government involvement to bring service to areas where its not as feasible from a business perspective."

Manitobas twister history: An average of nine tornadoes touch down in Manitoba every year. So far, in 2018, there have been seven, Environment Canada meteorologist Justin Share told the Free Press Monday.

The majority of tornadoes take place in the summer, from May to September, he said; the ideal day for twisters to form in the Prairies is around July 15. Hot and humid weather is perfect for unstable weather, he added.

The last fatal tornado in the province took place in 2006 at a campground in Gull Lake, 85 km northeast of Winnipeg. A woman was killed and her husband was injured in the Aug. 5, 2006, storm.

Environment Canada said there have only been two tornado fatalities, including the 77-year-old who died in Alonsa this weekend, in Manitoba since 1980.

 Maggie Macintosh, with files from the Brandon Sun
In John Grishams 1992 thriller The Pelican Brief, two U.S. Supreme Court Justices are murdered. One of the judges is regarded as a liberal; the other, a conservative. Darby Shaw, a law student (played by Julia Roberts in the 1993 movie based on the novel), solves the murder mystery  which puts her life in danger  by figuring out that both justices were supportive of environmental causes.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 7/8/2018 (1178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Opinion

In John Grishams 1992 thriller The Pelican Brief, two U.S. Supreme Court Justices are murdered. One of the judges is regarded as a liberal; the other, a conservative. Darby Shaw, a law student (played by Julia Roberts in the 1993 movie based on the novel), solves the murder mystery  which puts her life in danger  by figuring out that both justices were supportive of environmental causes.

Their deaths were arranged by Victor Mattiece, an oil magnate who wanted to obtain oil drilling rights on land in Louisiana inhabited by an endangered species of pelican. Mattiece feared that when the dispute over the land eventually made its way to the Supreme Court, these two judges would cast the significant votes against him. As a big financial backer of the U.S. president, Mattiece believed he could manipulate the president into appointing new pro-business justices who would side with his position.

As implausible as this plot may be, American presidents have been manipulating their selections for Supreme Court justices for generations  yet perhaps no more blatantly than at the present.

Most Canadians would be hard-pressed to name the chief justice of the Canadian Supreme Court (Richard Wagner) and the other justices. Yet given the excessive media attention, the odds are much better that they are more familiar with U.S. Chief Justice John Roberts and the eight other American judges, including Neil Gorsuch, President Donald Trumps first appointee, who assumed office in April 2017.

In Canada, the prime minister  with some consultation of the broader legal community  chooses Supreme Court judges based on scholarship, experience and prior legal decisions, as well as a consideration of sex, diversity and region. In the U.S., the president also takes into account these qualities (in theory, at any rate), but the overriding factor is the prospective nominees political bent.

The key is whether a judge is a conservative or a liberal; or more accurately, an originalist who narrowly interprets the U.S. Constitution as it was written in the late 18th century, or a progressive who treats the constitution as a living document that must adapt to fit current attitudes and values. Justices Clarence Thomas and Gorsuch and most conservative judges tend to be originalists, while Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sonia Sotomayor are progressives. Chief Justice Roberts can go either way.

Trump regards his power to appoint judges to the high court as one of the most significant ways he can reshape American society in his own (arguably distorted) image. And as a self-proclaimed foe of abortion, he promised on several occasions during the 2016 presidential campaign to appoint judges who would overturn the landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade, which decriminalized and extended abortion rights in the U.S.

During his Senate confirmation hearing, Gorsuch refused to clarify his stand on Roe v. Wade, stating only that the decision established an important precedent he respected. He also insisted that had Trump asked him if he would overturn the decision, he would "have walked out the door."

With the recent announced retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy, Trump has been given another opportunity to politicize the court further with his selection of Judge Brett Kavanaugh of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit (he also served in George W. Bushs White House administration).

He, too, is regarded as a conservative and overly partisan. Yet no matter how aggressively Democratic senators will question Kavanaugh about his views on abortion, he no doubt will be as vague as Gorsuch was. And there isnt much the Democrats can do about it with the current makeup of the Senate. The probability of him being confirmed is high.

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At the same time, no one, certainly not Trump, can predict with absolute certainty how any judge, conservative or not, will rule in a specific case. To prophesize that Gorsuch and Kavanaugh, over the course of three decades  if they serve that long  will never waver from the political views they seemingly hold today is wishful and simplistic thinking.

The process of rendering a legal decision is complex and not merely based on a judges perceived political bias. In 1896 in Plessy v. Ferguson  one of the most controversial and worst Supreme Court decisions ever made  the court in a 7-1 vote upheld the constitutionality of "separate but equal" supporting racial segregation, which severely impacted on the lives of African-Americans in the south. The majority opinion was not written by a southern appointee from an old slave-owning family, but by Justice Henry Billings Brown from Michigan. He did not consider himself a racist, yet maintained that though all citizens were equal, separate facilities could exist.

Similarly, it took until 1954 to overturn Plessy v. Ferguson with Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, mainly because so-called liberal Supreme Court judges appointed by Democrats Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman were reluctant to overturn an established precedent and pointed to the fact that as of 1952, Congress had yet to pass a law forbidding segregation.

On the other hand, Justice Harry Blackmun of Minnesota, appointed to the court by Republican Richard Nixon, wrote the majority opinion in Roe v. Wade and became a champion of liberal causes.

Anything is thus possible in a future court decision on abortion. Gorsuch and Kavanaugh might not vote to overturn Roe v. Wade as Trump anticipates they will. And Chief Justice Roberts may now take the place of Justice Kennedy as the deciding arbiter in any 4-4 decision.

Now & Then is a column in which historian Allan Levine puts the events of today in a historical context.
Those who were waiting to get their hands on some 3D-printable firearm schematics are in for a disappointment: after eight U.S. states and the District of Columbia filed a joint lawsuit in federal court, a countrywide temporary restraining order was granted to stop the files from being posted by a Texas non-profit called Defense Distributed.

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 7/8/2018 (1178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Opinion

Those who were waiting to get their hands on some 3D-printable firearm schematics are in for a disappointment: after eight U.S. states and the District of Columbia filed a joint lawsuit in federal court, a countrywide temporary restraining order was granted to stop the files from being posted by a Texas non-profit called Defense Distributed.

The distribution of blueprints for 3D-printable guns had been classified as illegal munitions export, but this May, the U.S. State Department announced a plan to amend the International Traffic in Arms Regulations regime to move the regulation of certain technical data to the jurisdiction of the commerce department. In response, 21 state attorneys general sent a letter to Attorney General Jeff Sessions and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, saying that the decision was "deeply dangerous and could have an unprecedented impact on public safety."

Regardless, little will change. Defense Distributed founder Cody Wilson first published blueprints for a printable gun called the Liberator more than five years ago. The files were removed after government demands, but a fundamental feature of the internet is that information never disappears. A search engine query can still surface copies of Wilsons design files on internet archives and piracy sites across the web.

The whole episode mirrors the saga of cryptography, which was also once on the U.S. Munitions List. Prior to 1996, encryption software could not legally be exported or distributed. But software is just strings of text. Export controls on cryptography became such a joke that cryptographers printed a simple encryption script onto T-shirts and wore them in an act of defiance.

Firearms are capable of a lot more damage than encryption, but this doesnt mean were ushering in a dangerous new era in which nutjobs will be printing semi-automatic weapons from the comfort of their homes. Theres a reason we havent seen an uptick in the number of crimes committed using 3D-printed firearms since the Liberator plans became public five years ago: its not actually that convenient. Legalizing distribution of the plans will make them more readily accessible to amateur gunsmiths, but wont transform 3D-printed guns into formidable weapons.

Depending on the 3D printer, the parts would take most of a day to complete. This is assuming the operator even has access to a precision printer. Entry-level machines cant form parts with the tolerances and temperature control needed to produce a reliable firearm.

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Even if made using todays best 3D printers, the guns still arent very good. Any material pliable enough to feed through a printer will have trouble surviving the pressure and temperature required to propel a bullet at thousands of feet per second. (The instructions accompanying the Liberator recommend discarding the barrel after each use.) 3D-printed firearms are a clever idea, but not a very practical one.

The real purpose of Wilsons blueprints is to dramatize the futility of gun control, much like encryption T-shirts were intended to troll those who wanted to ban encryption. Every outrageous article warning of a future where anyone can print deadly weapons serves only to validate his point and increase the hype around printable guns. Wilsons Twitter account proudly retweets every terrifying headline  his organization couldnt have bought better advertising if theyd wanted to.

Those headlines are overwrought. Yes, sufficiently determined Americans can print a plastic firearm. But itll be unreliable and quite likely to misfire and explode. (If you absolutely must proceed, consider taking a safety course while waiting for the gun pieces to print.)

Even if the Supreme Court overturns the temporary injunction, 3D-printable firearms are unlikely to catch on anytime soon. It would help if fear-mongers stopped providing free advertising.

Elaine Ou is a blockchain engineer at Global Financial Access in San Francisco. Previously she was a lecturer in the electrical and information engineering department at the University of Sydney.

 Bloomberg
Do you know what fake news is?

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 7/8/2018 (1178 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Do you know what "fake news" is?

If youre like most Canadians, you think you know what it is, but you may not.

A recent study done for Vividata, which does surveys of newspaper and magazine readership in Canada, found widespread concern about fake news, but limited understanding of what it is.

There is a strong belief  fuelled daily by rants from U.S. President Donald Trump  that fake news is published, broadcast and otherwise spread daily by mainstream news media outlets such as the Washington Post or the Winnipeg Free Press.

There is a strong belief  fuelled daily by rants from U.S. President Donald Trump  that fake news is published, broadcast and otherwise spread daily by mainstream news media outlets such as the Washington Post or the Winnipeg Free Press.

It is not. Fake news is deliberate misinformation, written with the intent to mislead, usually in order to damage someone or something, or to gain financial or political advantage.

For example, its a report that Justin Bieber told a Bible study group that the music industry is run by pedophiles. Despite being debunked as a "lurid fabrication," this claim continues to circulate on the internet.

In Trumps world, fake news is negative press coverage of his presidency. He uses the term to bash CNN and the New York Times and to implore his followers not to believe anything from such media outlets. By doing so, Trump has become the biggest purveyor of false information about fake news.

Trumps continued misuse of the term, and constant attacks on serious news outlets, has had a worldwide impact. Dictators and authoritarian regimes have seized on it to crack down on media reporting that they do not like, even to pass laws that allow them to throw journalists in jail.

If you think there has been no impact in Canada, think again.

Mainstream news outlets do not deliberately fabricate news. If they did, they would not stay in business long. You may disagree with what a news outlet reports on, the angle of a story or the opinions expressed. You may think only trivial news is covered and that important stories are ignored. But none of this represents fake news.

The Vividata study found six out of 10 Canadian adults believe fake news means a mainstream news organization has deliberately fabricated news.

This is false. Mainstream news outlets do not deliberately fabricate news. If they did, they would not stay in business long. You may disagree with what a news outlet reports on, the angle of a story or the opinions expressed. You may think only trivial news is covered and that important stories are ignored.

But none of this represents fake news. It simply means it is not your cup of tea.

About four out of 10 Canadians also think fake news implies that a story is factually incorrect, according to the Vividata study. This is not fake news, either. A factual error is simply a mistake. News outlets make them regularly. Responsible news outlets make every effort to correct them once they are discovered.

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After the 2016 U.S. presidential election, an analysis of Facebook traffic found the top 20 fake news stories received more engagement than the top 20 election stories from major media outlets. (Richard Drew / The Associated Press files)

There is real reason to be concerned about fake news. After the 2016 U.S. presidential election, an analysis of Facebook traffic found the top 20 fake news stories received more engagement than the top 20 election stories from major media outlets.

In other words, deliberate misinformation got more attention than fact-based, independent journalism. That is a reason for anyone who cares about democracy to be concerned.

It appears Canadians are taking their own steps to guard against fake news. About half of the people surveyed for Vividata say choosing more credible news sources  such as traditional newspapers, TV and radio  is an effective way to tackle fake news. A strong majority trust these news outlets far more than purely digital outlets and social media.

Most people surveyed see the importance of quality news and journalism  eight out of 10 believe the health of our democracy depends on journalists reporting the facts accurately.

There should always be a debate about whether news outlets such as the Winnipeg Free Press are acting responsibly. But lets not confuse this with the debate over what should be done about fake news.

Bob Cox is publisher of the Winnipeg Free Press.
China's automobile imports tumbled 87.1 percent to 15,000 units in June, according to statistics from the China Automobile Dealers Association. The country imported 452,000 automobiles through June, dropping 22.1 percent on a yearly basis.

"Such a decline is rare historically," said Wang Cun, director of the import car committee at CADA.

Wang attributed the slump to the latest import tariff policy changes in China, reported finance.ifeng.com.

In addition, the country witnessed a sales slump of imported vehicles in the same month, with sales falling 21.2 percent to 63,000 units in June and dropping 9.8 percent to 394,000 units during the January to June period.

China started cutting import tariffs on vehicles and auto parts on July 1, thus potential customers were holding money in June for a better price after July. As the country started to add a 25 percent additional import tariff to vehicles made in the United States on July 6, certain US brands saw a sales increase in June compared with the previous month, Wang said.

Foreign brands except Mitsubishi, whose sales stem mainly from parallel import, posted weak sales in June, with Land Rover, Ford, Volvo and BMW the hardest hit marques.

In terms of models, SUV and MPV models experienced the toughest blow in June, with sales descending 29.1 and 42.3 percent respectively.

It is worth mentioning parallel imports also experienced a slump of 24 percent to 59,500 units in the first half of the year, according to a report from China Economic Net.

"Parallel import has been a strong driving force for the country's automobile imports in the past three years," Wang said, "and June's decline was due to trader risk control facing import tariff reduction."

When talking about tariff policies' effects on the whole year, Wang said under the shadow of China-US trade tensions, 80 percent of import models would enjoy 15 percent import tariffs in the second half of the year, while the other 20 percent would be taxed at 40 percent.

For example, automakers with plants only built in the United States would transfer tariff pressure onto customers, inevitably reducing product competitiveness. Those enterprises with multiple plants worldwide, such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW, may witness slight price increases.

"The brand structure of imported vehicles in China may witness obvious changes," the director said.
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Environmental groups were not going to be happy with anyone President Donald Trump picked for the Supreme Court. But the nomination of Judge Brett Kavanaugh has them especially worried.

A conservative who would replace the more moderate Justice Anthony Kennedy, Kavanaugh has a record of slapping back Environmental Protection Agency regulations during his 12 years as a federal appeals court judge.

Pull Quote "It threatens to take us back to the old days,'' said Pat Gallagher, the legal director at the Sierra Club, recalling environmental disasters from the 1960s and `70s. "The Cuyahoga River, Love Canal  when there was no environmental protection."

Kavanaugh could shift the court to the right in many areas. But Kennedy was especially pivotal on environmental cases, ruling with the majority on nearly all of them over 30 years on the bench  and often siding with the environmentalists in the biggest cases.

Kavanaugh has a narrower view of what environmental protections the federal government can implement. That was clear from an Associated Press review of his opinions while on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, along with other writings and speeches.

"It threatens to take us back to the old days,'' said Pat Gallagher, the legal director at the Sierra Club, recalling environmental disasters from the 1960s and `70s. "The Cuyahoga River, Love Canal  when there was no environmental protection."

Kavanaugh's backers don't see him as anti-environment.

"His rulings in cases involving the EPA say far more about the aggressive nature of the EPA in terms of trying to stretch beyond its breaking point its mandate from Congress," said John Malcolm, vice president of the conservative Heritage Foundation's Institute for Constitutional Government.

Republicans hope the Senate can confirm Kavanaugh by the time the court's next session begins Oct. 1. But that is in doubt because of delays in reviewing documents related to Kavanaugh's time in President George W. Bush's administration.

In his opinions on environmental issues, Kavanaugh has often stressed the importance of policies to protect against climate change before saying that Congress, not the EPA, should create those policies.

One prominent example came last year in a majority opinion that found the EPA lacks the authority to regulate hydrofluorocarbons, chemicals linked to global warming. Kavanaugh wrote: "EPA's well-intentioned policy objectives with respect to climate change do not on their own authorize the agency to regulate."

William Buzbee, a Georgetown Law professor who teaches constitutional and environmental law, said Kavanaugh often rules that either Congress didn't delegate duties clearly enough to the EPA or that the agency wasn't carrying them out correctly  in contrast with a history of judges giving wide latitude to agencies to try to solve problems.

"It's a move that sounds like an attitude of deference and separation of power," Buzbee said. "The effect is to take away an agency's powers to deal with real-world problems."

President Barack Obama relied heavily on administrative action as Republicans controlled Congress for most of his presidency and resisted passing laws that favored environmental protections over companies.

Kavanaugh addressed that in the hydrofluorocarbons case: "Under the Constitution, congressional inaction does not license an agency to take matters into its own hands, even to solve a pressing policy issue such as climate change."

Kavanaugh took similar approaches in two major 2012 rulings.

In one, Kavanaugh dissented from the circuit, wanting to grant further review in a case in which the appeals court upheld the EPA's ability to regulate greenhouse gases.

In another, Kavanaugh wrote the majority opinion to eliminate a 2011 EPA rule limiting emissions from power plants and other sources to reduce pollution in neighboring states. Writing for a divided panel, he found that this "good neighbor" rule overstepped the EPA's authority. The Supreme Court overruled Kavanaugh.

In a speech last year at the American Enterprise Institute, Kavanaugh praised the late Justice Antonin Scalia for applying a principle laid out by Chief Justice William Rehnquist to an EPA case. The "major questions doctrine," he said, "is critical to limiting the ability of agencies to make major policy decisions that belong to Congress, at least unless Congress clearly delegates that authority."

Still, Kavanaugh has not always ruled against environmental regulation. In 2010, he wrote the majority opinion for a divided panel when trucking groups sued the EPA over California's regulations for engines such as those that power refrigeration systems on trucks. Kavanaugh praised the agency for properly following Congress' directions in delegating that narrow area of regulation to California.

In environmental cases, judges often must sort out who has the legal standing to challenge regulations or push for protections.

"The Supreme Court now for decades has said that environmental and aesthetic interests count for standing," Buzbee said. "My sense is they count less for Judge Kavanaugh."

In a 2014 case, he wrote the unanimous opinion finding that environmental groups did not have standing to challenge an EPA decision not to tighten carbon monoxide standards.

There are also cases where he found that industrial groups have standing to oppose environmental restrictions. One of those came last year, when he was on a panel that unanimously found that logging interests had standing to challenge the designation of 9.5 million acres (3.8 million hectares) in California, Oregon and Washington as a critical habitat for the northern spotted owl. He wrote that industry groups showed clearly that they would face economic harm if logging was banned in the area.

There are exceptions in his record. Kavanaugh was part of a unanimous 2009 ruling that found road- and transportation-building groups did not have standing to challenge some EPA rules.

If Kavanaugh is confirmed in time for the new court session, the first case he'd hear would deal with an environmental issue.

In the case, the private owners of land used for logging in Louisiana object to their property's inclusion in the critical habitat for the dusky gopher frog, which was added to the endangered species list in 2001, when fewer than 100 were known to be in existence  all in southern Mississippi. None of the frogs has been spotted in Louisiana for more than 50 years.

A federal appeals court found the land's inclusion as a critical habitat was appropriate.
Nevsun Resources Ltd. engages in the mining and development of mineral properties in Europe, Africa, and North America. It explores for gold, copper, zinc, and silver deposits. The company's principal assets include Timok project, a copper-gold development project in Serbia; and Bisha copper- zinc mine in Eritrea. It also holds exploration licenses and permits in Serbia and Macedonia, as well as in the Bisha mining district. The company was incorporated in 1965 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. As of January 7, 2019, Nevsun Resources Ltd. operates as a subsidiary of Zijin Mining Group Company Limited.

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DE R.L. DE C.V., HOTELS CS CELAYA S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HP ATLANTA CENTENNIAL PARK JV LLC, HP AUSTIN L.L.C., HP BEVERAGE DALLAS DFW AIRPORT LLC, HP BEVERAGE SUGAR LAND LLC, HP BOSTON HOLDINGS L.L.C., HP GLENDALE JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HP GLENDALE L.L.C., HP INDIA HOLDINGS LIMITED, HP LAS VEGAS BEVERAGE L.L.C., HP M STREET L.L.C., HP ROUTE 46 TEXAS LLC, HP SAN FRANCISCO L.L.C., HP SAN JUAN L.L.C., HP TEN TEXAS LLC, HPHH ATLANTA L.L.C., HPHH DENVER L.L.C., HPHH SAN JOSE JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HPHH SAN JOSE L.L.C., HQ CHESAPEAKE LLC, HR LOST PINES RESORT LLC, HR MC HOTEL COMPANY S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HR MC SERVICES II S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HR MC SERVICES S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HRHC LLC, HT- WAILEA LLC, HT-AVENDRA GROUP HOLDINGS L.L.C., HT-AVENDRA L.L.C., HT-CHESAPEAKE COMMUNITIES INC., HT-CHESAPEAKE RESORT INC., HT-HOTEL EQUITIES INC., HT-HUNTINGTON BEACH INC., HT-JERSEY PIER INC., HT-JERSEY PIER L.P., HT-JERSEY PIER LLC, HT-LONG BEACH L.L.C., HT-MIAMI BEACH L.L.C., HT-PARK 57 INC., HT-SEATTLE LLC, HT-SIERRA L.L.C., HT-VANCOUVER INC., HTLB L.L.C., HTS - NS L.L.C., HTS - NY L.L.C., HTS-ASPEN L.L.C., HTS-BC INC., HTS-INVESTMENT L L.C., HTSF L.L.C., HTW BEVERAGE LLC, HY LONG BEACH HOTEL LLC, HYATT (BARBADOS) CORPORATION, HYATT (JAPAN) CO. LTD., HYATT (THAILAND) LIMITED, HYATT ARUBA N.V., HYATT ASIA PACIFIC HOLDINGS LIMITED, HYATT AUSTRALIA HOTEL MANAGEMENT PTY LIMITED, HYATT AUSTRIA GMBH, HYATT BEACH FRONT N.V., HYATT BORNEO MANAGEMENT SERVICES LIMITED, HYATT BRITANNIA CORPORATION LTD., HYATT CC OFFICE CORP., HYATT CHAIN SERVICES LIMITED, HYATT CRYSTAL CITY LLC., HYATT CURACAO N.V., HYATT DISASTER RELIEF FUND, HYATT DO BRASIL PARTICIPACOES LTDA, HYATT EQUITIES L.L.C., HYATT FOREIGN EMPLOYMENT SERVICES INC., HYATT FRANCHISING CANADA CORP., HYATT FRANCHISING L.L.C., HYATT FRANCHISING LATIN AMERICA L.L.C., HYATT FULFILLMENT OF MARYLAND INC., HYATT GLOBAL SERVICES INC., HYATT GTLD L.L.C., HYATT HOC INC., HYATT HOLDINGS (UK) LIMITED, HYATT HOSPITALITY SERVICES L.L.C., HYATT HOTEL MANAGEMENT LIMITED, HYATT HOTELS CONSULTANCY SERVICES ASIA PACIFIC LIMITED, HYATT HOTELS CORPORATION OF KANSAS, HYATT HOTELS CORPORATION OF MARYLAND, HYATT HOTELS FOUNDATION, HYATT HOTELS MANAGEMENT CORPORATION, HYATT HOTELS OF CANADA INC., HYATT HOTELS OF FLORIDA INC., HYATT HOTELS OF PUERTO RICO INC., HYATT HOUSE CANADA INC., HYATT HOUSE FRANCHISING L.L.C., HYATT HOUSE HOTEL HOLDING COMPANY L.L.C., HYATT INDIA CONSULTANCY PRIVATE LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL (ASIA) LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL (EUROPE AFRICA MIDDLE EAST) LLC, HYATT INTERNATIONAL - JAPAN LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL - SOUTHWEST ASIA LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL -ASIA PACIFIC LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL -SEA (PTE) LIMITED, HYATT INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION, HYATT INTERNATIONAL HOLDINGS CO., HYATT INTERNATIONAL HOTEL MANAGEMENT (BEIJING) CO. LTD., HYATT INTERNATIONAL MILAN L.L.C., HYATT INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT (BEIJING) CO. LTD., HYATT INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL SERVICES INC., HYATT JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., HYATT LACSA SERVICES INC., HYATT LOUISIANA L.L.C., HYATT MAINZ GMBH, HYATT MARKETING SERVICES INC., HYATT MARKETING SERVICES NIGERIA COMPANY LIMITED, HYATT MINNEAPOLIS LLC, HYATT MINORITY INVESTMENTS INC., HYATT MSS L.L.C., HYATT NORTH AMERICA MANAGEMENT SERVICES INC., HYATT OF AUSTRALIA LIMITED, HYATT OF BAJA S. DE R.L. DE C.V., HYATT OF CHINA LIMITED, HYATT OF FRANCE S.A.R.L., HYATT OF GUAM LIMITED, HYATT OF ITALY S.R.L., HYATT OF LATIN AMERICA AND CARIBBEAN L.L.C., HYATT OF LATIN AMERICA S.A. DE C.V., HYATT OF MACAU LIMITED, HYATT OF MEXICO S.A. DE C.V., HYATT OF PHILIPPINES LIMITED, HYATT PARTNERSHIP INTERESTS L.L.C., HYATT PLACE ANNE ARUNDEL BEVERAGE INC., HYATT PLACE CANADA CORPORATION, HYATT PLACE FRANCHISING L.L.C., HYATT PLACE OF MARYLAND INC., HYATT REGENCY COLOGNE GMBH, HYATT REGENCY CORPORATION PTY. LIMITED, HYATT SERVICES AUSTRALIA PTY LIMITED, HYATT SERVICES CANADA INC., HYATT SERVICES CARIBBEAN L.L.C., HYATT SERVICES GMBH, HYATT SERVICES INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED, HYATT SHARED SERVICE CENTER L.L.C., HYATT TRINIDAD LIMITED, HYCANADA INC., HYCARD INC., HYSTAR L.L.C., Hyatt Corporation, INFORMATION SERVICES LIMITED, INTERNATIONAL RESERVATIONS LIMITED, JOINT VENTURE ITALKYR CLOSED JOINT STOCK COMPANY, JUNIPER HOTELS PRIVATE LIMITED, KSA MANAGEMENT INC., KYOTO HOLDING CO., LHR-PARTNERS LTD., LORING PARK ASSOCIATES LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, LOST PINES BEVERAGE LLC, MACAE PARTNERS S.A.R.L., MAHIMA HOLDINGS PRIVATE LIMITED, MARION RESERVATION CENTER L.L.C., MEXICO CITY HOTEL INVESTMENTS B.V., MILAN HOTEL INVESTMENTS B.V., MIRAVAL ARIZONA GUARANTOR LLC, MIRAVAL GROUP LLC, MIRAVAL RESORT ARIZONA HOLDINGS LLC, MIRAVAL RESORT ARIZONA LLC, MIRAVAL RESORT ARIZONA OPERATING CO. INC., MIRAVAL RESORT TUCSON LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS I LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS II LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS III LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS LLC, MONROE MR HOLDINGS TRUST, MRG ATX BEVERAGE HOLDINGS LLC, MRG ATX HOLDINGS II LLC, MRG ATX HOLDINGS LLC, MRG ATX INVESTMENT LLC, MRG ATX MANAGEMENT I LLC, MRG ATX MANAGEMENT II LLC, MRG ATX OPERATIONS LLC, MRG CRW HOLDINGS LLC, MRG CRW MANAGEMENT I LLC, MRG CRW MANAGEMENT II LLC, MRG CRW OPERATIONS LLC, MUNICH OPCO GMBH, Miraval Resort, OASIS LUXURY RENTALS INCORPORATED, PARIS HOTEL COMPANY B.V., PARK HYATT HAMBURG GMBH, PARK HYATT HOTEL GMBH, PARK HYATT WATER TOWER ASSOCIATES L.L.C., PH NEW YORK L.L.C., PHMC RESIDENCIAS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., POLK SMITH REGENCY LLC, PT HYATT INDONESIA, PVD INVESTMENT COMPANY S.A.R.L., Peabody Hotels & Resort, RCG PROPERTIES LLC, REGENCY BEVERAGE COMPANY LLC, REGENCY RIVERWALK BEVERAGE LLC, RESERVATIONS CENTER L.L.C., RIO JV PARTNERS PARTICIPACOES LTDA., RIO PRETO PARTNERS HOTEIS LTDA., RIO PRETO PARTNERS S.A.R.L., ROSEMONT PROJECT MANAGEMENT L.L.C., ROUTE 46 MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES CORP., RUNWAY HOLDING L.L.C., RUNWAY L.L.C., SAO PAULO INVESTMENT COMPANY INC., SAO PAULO INVESTORS LIMITED, SASIH, SDI EQUITIES INVESTOR L.L.C., SDI INC., SDI SECURITIES 11 LLC, SDI SECURITIES 6 LLC, SELECT HOTELS GROUP L.L.C., SELECT JV HOLDINGS L.L.C., SEOUL MIRAMAR CORPORATION, SERVICIOS DE HOTELERIA SAN JOSE S. DE R.L. DE C.V., SERVICIOS HOTELEROS LA PAZ S. DE R.L. DE C.V., SETTLEMENT INVESTORS INC., SHG PUERTO RICO INC., SIERRA HEALTHSTYLES LLC, SJC DESARROLLOS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., SKS CORP. N.V., SMC HOTELS B.V., SOROCABA PARTNERS HOTEIS LTDA, SOROCABA PARTNERS S.A.R.L., STANHOPE L.L.C., STARHILL LORING PARK L.L.C., SUGAR LAND/HP LLC, THE GREAT EASTERN HOTEL COMPANY LIMITED, THE GREAT EASTERN HOTEL HOLDING COMPANY LIMITED, TIJUANA PARTNERS S. DE R.L. DE C.V., TR MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT LLC, TUCSON VILLAS HOLDINGS LLC, TUCSON VILLAS LLC, TWO SEAS HOLDINGS LIMITED, Two Roads Hospitality, WAILEA HOTEL & BEACH RESORT L.L.C., WAILEA HOTEL HOLDINGS L.L.C., WAILEA MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION L.L.C., WAILEA RESORT VILLAS HOLDINGS L.L.C., WAILEA RESORT VILLAS L.L.C., WEST END RESIDENCES L.L.C., XENIA ASSURANCE COMPANY INC., XENIA ASSURANCE COMPANY OF ILLINOIS, ZURICH ESCHERWIESE HOTEL GMBH, and ZURICH HOTEL INVESTMENTS B.V..
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.

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The tightening of financial regulation in China has led to a sharp decline in shadow banking since the start of this year.

According to the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, the financial sector has continued to consolidate efforts to return to its fundamental purpose of serving the real economy.

Statistics from the regulator show that as of the end of May, interbank assets dropped by 2.6 percent year-on-year, and non-bond investments fell 7 percent.

The value of interbank wealth management products declined further by 1.2 trillion yuan ($177 billion) during the first five months of 2018, following a drop of 3.4 trillion yuan last year.

Sheng Songcheng, an adviser to the People's Bank of China, the central bank, said: "At the beginning of this year, regulators made it clear that they included regulation of risks associated with shadow banking and cross-sector financial products into the priorities of this year's crackdown on the financial market. The business of trust loans and entrusted loans has shrunk significantly since January."

The size of new trust loans and new entrusted loans dropped by 131.5 billion yuan and 179 billion yuan month-on-month in January, respectively. The growth in these two types of loans remained roughly negative for a few months thereafter, Sheng said.

The China Banking Association said in a report issued in July: "The Chinese banking sector will make a transition from high-speed growth to high-quality development. From 2018 to 2019, the banking sector will continue the development trend of last year, with positive changes taking place in its asset and liability structure. The size of interbank assets, interbank wealth management, and investment via special purpose vehicles may shrink further, and the growth in such business may slow down further.

"As the total size of banks' off-balance-sheet business will keep falling, their operation will become more sensible and standardized. With increased risk and compliance awareness, rule violations and regulatory arbitrage activities will largely decrease, and banks will become more rational in dealing with their urge for scale expansion."

On July 20, the CBIRC announced draft measures for the supervision and administration of the asset management business of commercial banks. Also on that day, the People's Bank of China announced a notice further clarifying relevant matters concerning the guidance of the financial asset management business of financial institutions. The aim is to tighten regulatory oversight of asset management services and products to contain risks more effectively and better protect the interests of investors.

"Growth of shadow banking assets will remain constrained in 2018 due to tight regulations. These include banks' off-balance sheet wealth management products and asset management products originated by non-bank financial institutions, which were the fastest-growing shadow banking products in 2015. Trust loans and entrusted loans, the remaining growth driver in 2017, are also under regulators' spotlight," said global credit ratings agency Moody's in its Quarterly China Shadow Banking Monitor report issued in May.

As of the end of 2017, the balance of banks' wealth management products stood at 29.54 trillion yuan, according to the CBIRC.

The regulator has been strengthening supervision since 2017. As a result, the asset management business of commercial banks is showing a more steady and sustainable trend of development.

As of the end of June, the balance of nonprincipal protected wealth management products was 21 trillion yuan, falling from 22.17 trillion yuan at the end of 2017.

About 70 percent of the wealth management funds are invested in standard assets such as bonds, deposits and monetary market instruments, while about 15 percent of the funds are invested in nonstandard debt assets, according to the regulator.
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. engages in global investment banking, securities, and investment management, which provides financial services. It operates through the following business segments: Investment Banking, Global Markets, Asset Management, and Consumer & Wealth Management. The Investment Banking segment serves public and private sector clients around the world and provides financial advisory services, help companies raise capital to strengthen and grow their businesses and provide financing to corporate clients. The Global Markets segment serves its clients who buy and sell financial products, funding and manage risk. The Asset Management segment provides investment services to help clients preserve and grow their financial assets. The Consumer & Wealth Management segment helps clients to achieve their individual financial goals by providing a wealth advisory and banking services. The company was founded by Marcus Goldman in 1869 and is headquartered in New York, NY.

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Fortis Inc. operates as an electric and gas utility company in Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean countries. It generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately 433,000 retail customers in southeastern Arizona; and 98,000 retail customers in Arizona's Mohave and Santa Cruz counties with an aggregate capacity of 3,233 megawatts (MW), including 59 MW of solar capacity. The company also sells wholesale electricity to other entities in the western United States; owns gas-fired and hydroelectric generating capacity totaling 65 MW; and distributes natural gas to approximately 1,048,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in British Columbia, Canada. In addition, it owns and operates the electricity distribution system that serves approximately 572,000 customers in southern and central Alberta; owns 4 hydroelectric generating facilities with a combined capacity of 225 MW; and provides operation, maintenance, and management services to five hydroelectric generating facilities. Further, the company distributes electricity in the island portion of Newfoundland and Labrador with an installed generating capacity of 143 MW; and on Prince Edward Island with a generating capacity of 130 MW. Additionally, it provides integrated electric utility service to approximately 67,000 customers in Ontario; approximately 270,000 customers in Newfoundland and Labrador; approximately 31,000 customers on Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; and approximately 15,000 customers on certain islands in Turks and Caicos. The company also holds long-term contracted generation assets in Belize consisting of 3 hydroelectric generating facilities with a combined capacity of 51 MW; and the Aitken Creek natural gas storage facility. It also owns and operates approximately 91,000 circuit Kilometers (km) of distribution lines; and approximately 49,500 km of natural gas pipelines. Fortis Inc. was founded in 1885 and is headquartered in St. John's, Canada.

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Wall Street analysts have given iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF 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 iShares S&P Mid-Cap 400 Value ETF 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.

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PLANS for East Africa gas pipeline have taken another step closer to fruition as the government announced tender for consultancy of a feasibility study of the project that will involve construction of the pipeline from Dar es Salaam to Uganda via Tanga and Kagera regions.

The proposed natural gas pipeline will help Uganda to tap into Tanzanias huge natural gas reserve of over 57 trillion cubic feet (tcf) for heating the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) from Hoima to Tanga, according to government reports.

It will also provide Uganda with natural gas for their steel industries which have benefitted from iron ore deposits in the south western region; among the highest quality iron ores in the world.

It has emerged that the natural gas resources in Tanzania can be used by Uganda to enable the flow of the crude oil from Hoima to Tanga and as well be used to develop Ugandas iron ore.

The development was revealed by the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) General Manager, John Bosco Habumugisha, one of the panel discussants at the Second Annual Africa Energy Forum in Kampala this year.

East Africans will definitely be interested to get updates of this proposed project as it marks another significant point in deepening of commercial ties between the two countries in the energy sector whose potential has been boosted by substantial oil deposits found in Uganda and major gas reserves discovered in Tanzania.

Steel imports in the East Africa is on increase as currently members states developing mega infrastructure projects in energy and transport sectors.

It is expected that the planned gas pipeline will be crucial as developing a strong integrated iron and steel industry will not only facilitate industrial take off in the region but also lead to saving of forex expenditure, increase employment opportunities and form a strong basis to support the growth of other sectors through forward back ward linkages.
A Beijing-Tianjin inter-city train leaves the Beijing South Railway Station on Aug. 1, 2018. [Photo/Xinhua]

On Aug. 1, 2008, the Beijing-Tianjin Inter-city Railway was launched at a top speed of 350 kilometers per hour, marking the beginning of China's high-speed railway era.

In the past decade, China saw the formation of an enormous high-speed railway network that stretches from the Bohai Sea in the east to the Gobi Desert in the west, from the central plains to the mountains in the southwest, and from the snowfields in the north to the riverside towns in the south. Now, the total operating mileage of China's high-speed railway network is more than 25,000 kilometers, accounting for two thirds of the world's total.

Extending in all directions, China's high-speed railway has vastly improved the travel speed for its citizens and created a new driver for the country's economic development and innovation.

10 years of fast development

Tianjin Station, which is reconstructed from the former Laolongtou (lit. ancient dragon head) Station built during Emperor Guangxu's reign (1875-1908) in the Qing Dynasty, has witnessed the tremendous development of China's railway from the beginning. From the Great Wall double-deck tourist train in the 1990s, to the Shenzhou double-deck diesel multiple units (DMUs) in 2000, and then to the Hexie inter-city rail, commuting time from Beijing to Tianjin has shortened drastically to around half an hour.

"As the pioneer of China's high-speed railway, the Beijing-Tianjin Inter-city Railway is more than just the first ever high-speed railway in China, it also contributed many innovation breakthroughs and set many service standards," says Zhou Bin, deputy chief of the Tianjin section of Beijing Railway Bureau.

As China's first independently built high-speed railway that runs at the speed of 350 kilometers per hour, the railway has made a spate of technology breakthroughs including civil engineering, joint debugging and testing, system integration, establishment of the operations management system, R&D of wide carriages, technical standard system, as well as service standard for high-speed railways, according to Zhou.

In the past 10 years, the number of trains shuttling between Beijing and Tianjin has increased from 47 pairs to 108.5 pairs. Passengers who were mostly tourists and family visitors in the beginning have expanded to include business people, commuters and students, totaling 250 million. The railway is believed to have helped in the coordinated development of Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei province.

As one of the stations between Beijing and Tianjin, Wuqing Station in Tianjin has served more than 12 million passengers in the past 10 years. Thanks to the Beijing-Tianjin Inter-city Railway, Wuqing district now receives more than 16 million tourists annually, many of them are from Beijing, according to an official at the district's tourism center.

'China Speed'

"China Speed" is changing people's lives. Wang Ye, who works at a tech company located in Wuqing district, rides the C2205 to work every morning. In less than half an hour, Wang and more than 20 of her colleagues travel from Beijing South Railway Station to Wuqing Station. Driven by the high-speed rail, Wuqing district has attracted more than 8,000 companies in the past five and a half years, including a number of leading companies and institutions such as the Railway Research Institute of China Academy of Railway Science.

The Tianjin Binhai  Zhongguancun Science & Tech Park, located on the extension line of the Beijing-Tianjin Inter-city Railway, has also attracted many investors. Since its establishment at the end of 2016, more than 500 enterprises have been registered there, many of which are from Beijing's Zhongguancun.

The Beijing-Tianjin Inter-city Railway is an epitome of the fast development of China's high-speed railway. By the end of 2017, the total number of passengers who traveled on China's high-speed trains had reached 7 billion. By 2020, China's total operation mileage of high-speed railway is on track to reach 30,000 kilometers, covering 80 percent of its major cities.

Continuing to innovate

Since 2004, China has developed various key technologies in train control system, such as the CTCS-2 system and the CTCS-3 system. Currently, China's high-speed railways are working on smart technology and services. In 2019, the smart-type Fuxing bullet train will be put into use for the first time in the Beijing-Zhangjiakou High-speed Railway. And by 2020, the Beijing-Xiongan Inter-city Railway will be finished.

China's high-speed railway is also going global, such as the Ankara-Istanbul High-speed Railway, the Jakarta-Bandung High-speed Railway, and the Moscow-Kazan High-speed Railway. In just a few years, it has rolled out overseas with leading technology, excellent quality and superior service. By continuing to innovate, China's high-speed railway is bringing concrete benefits to the world.
The following companies are subsidiares of Carnival Co. &: 1972 Productions Inc., 6348 Equipment LLC, A.C.N. 098 290 834 Pty. Ltd., A.J. Juneau Dock LLC, AIDA Kundencenter GmbH, Adventure Island Ltd., Air-Sea Holiday GmbH, Alaska Hotel Properties LLC, Barcelona Cruise Terminal SLU, Bay Island Cruise Port S.A., Belize Cruise Terminal Limited, CC U.S. Ventures Inc., CCL Gifts LLC, CSSC Carnival Italy Cruise Investment S.r.L, Carnival (UK) Limited, Carnival Bahamas FC Limited, Carnival Bahamas Holdings Limited, Carnival Corporation & plc Asia Pte. Ltd., Carnival Corporation Hong Kong Limited, Carnival Corporation Korea Ltd., Carnival Corporation Ports Group Japan KK, Carnival Finance LLC, Carnival Grand Bahama Investment Limited, Carnival Investments Limited, Carnival Japan Inc., Carnival License Holdings Limited, Carnival Maritime GmbH, Carnival North America LLC, Carnival Port Holdings Limited, Carnival Ports Inc., Carnival Support Services India Private Limited, Carnival Technical Services (UK) Limited, Carnival Technical Services Finland Limited, Carnival Technical Services GmbH, Carnival Technical Services Inc., Carnival Vanuatu Limited, Costa Crociere PTE Ltd., Costa Crociere S.p.A., Costa Cruceros S.A., Costa Cruise Lines Inc., Costa Cruise Lines UK Limited, Costa Cruises Shipping Services (Shanghai) Company Limited, Costa Cruises Travel Agency (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Costa Cruzeiros Agencia Maritima e Turismo Ltda., Costa Group Digital & Strategic Services GmbH, Costa International B.V., Costa Kreuzfahrten GmbH, Cozumel Cruise Terminal S.A. de C.V., Creative Travel Lab Ltd., Cruise Ships Catering & Services International N.V., Cruise Terminal Services S.A. de C.V., Cruiseport Curacao C.V., D.R. Cruise Port Ltd., Ecospray Technologies S.r.L., F.P.M. SAS, F.P.P. SAS, Fleet Maritime Services (Bermuda) Limited, Fleet Maritime Services Holdings (Bermuda) Limited, Fleet Maritime Services International Limited, GXI LLC, Gibs Inc., Global Experience Innovators Inc., Global Fine Arts Inc., Global Shipping Service (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Grand Cruise Shipping Unipessoal LdA, Grand Turk Cruise Center Ltd., HAL Antillen N.V., HAL Beheer B.V., HAL Cruises Limited, HAL Maritime Ltd., HAL Nederland N.V., HAL Properties Limited, HAL Services B.V., HSE Hamburg School of Entertainment GmbH, Holding Division Iberocruceros SLU, Holland America Line Inc., Holland America Line N.V., Holland America Line Paymaster of Washington LLC, Holland America Line U.S.A. Inc., Ibero Cruzeiros Ltda., Iberocruceros SLU, Information Assistance Corporation, International Cruise Services S.A. de C.V., International Leisure Travel Inc., International Maritime Recruitment Agency S.A. de C.V., Milestone N.V., Navitrans S.R.L., Ocean Bahamas Innovation Ltd., Ocean Medallion Fulfillment Ltd., Operadora Catalina S.r.L., P&O Princess American Holdings, P&O Princess Cruises International Limited, P&O Princess Cruises Pension Trustee Limited, P&O Properties (California) Inc., P&O Travel Limited, Prestige Cruises Management S.A.M., Prestige Cruises N.V., Princess Bermuda Holdings Ltd., Princess Cays Ltd., Princess Cruise Corporation Inc., Princess Cruise Lines Ltd., Princess Cruises and Tours Inc., Princess U.S. Holdings Inc., RCT Maintenance & Related Services S.A., RCT Pilots & Related Services S.A., RCT Security & Related Services S.A., Roatan Cruise Terminal S.A. de C.V., Royal Hyway Tours Inc., Santa Cruz Terminal S.L., SeaVacations Limited, SeaVacations UK Limited, Seabourn Cruise Line Limited, Shanghai Coast Cruise Consulting Co. Lda, Ship Care (Bahamas) Limited, Sitmar Cruises Inc., Spanish Cruise Services N.V., Sunshine Shipping Corporation Ltd., T&T International Inc., Tour Alaska LLC, Transnational Services Corporation, Trident Insurance Company Ltd., Westmark Hotels Inc., Westmark Hotels of Canada Ltd., Westours Motor Coaches LLC, Wind Surf Limited, and World Leading Cruise Management (Shanghai) Co. Ltd..
Wall Street analysts have given PetroQuest Energy 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 PetroQuest Energy wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

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Uniper SE operates as an energy company. It operates in three segments: European Generation, Global Commodities, and Russian Power Generation. The company owns and operates various power and heat generation facilities, including fossil fuel power plants, such as coal, gas, oil, and combined gas and steam; and hydroelectric, nuclear, biomass, photovoltaic, and wind power plants. It also markets energy services comprising fuel procurement, and engineering and asset management, as well as operational and maintenance services; and procures fuels, trades in emission allowances, and markets electricity. In addition, the company engages in the sale of individual power and natural gas to resellers, industrial customers, and power plant operators; energy trading activities; infrastructure investments and gas storage operations; fuel procurement for power plants; operation and management of the plants; and trade and sale of energy. Further, it trades in commodities, which comprise power, natural gas, liquefied natural gas, and coal and freight solutions; provides district heating and online gas dispatch services; operates gas storage and power-to-gas facilities in Germany, Austria, and the United Kingdom; and owns and operates marine fuel oils production facility in Fujairah. The company operates in Germany, the United Kingdom, the Russian Federation, rest of Europe, and internationally. Uniper SE was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in DAsseldorf, Germany. Uniper SE operates as a subsidiary of Karemi Charge and Drive SE.

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Xcel Energy, Inc. operates as a holding company, which engages in the generation, purchase, transmission, distribution and sale of electricity. It operates through the following three segments: Regulated Electric Utility, Regulated Natural Gas Utility and All Others. The Regulated Electric Utility segment generates, transmits and distributes electricity primarily in portions of generates, transmits and distributes electricity in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, Colorado, Texas and New Mexico. In addition, this segment includes sales for resale and provides wholesale transmission service to various entities in the United States. It also includes commodity trading operations. The Regulated Natural Gas Utility segment transports, stores, and distributes natural gas primarily in portions of Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Michigan and Colorado. The All Others segment engages in steam, appliance repair services, nonutility real estate activities, processing solid waste into refuse-derived fuel and investments in rental housing projects that qualify for low-income housing tax credits. The company was founded in 1909 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN.

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China's top health authority said on Sunday night that it is investigating a case in which children in a northwestern province may have been vaccinated with expired products.

The National Health Commission sent an investigative team to Shangluo, Shaanxi province, on Sunday, it said in a statement.

Some parents whose children received an MMR vaccine at a hospital on Mar 1, checked an app that provides information on vaccines and found that the expiration date was July 14 last year, an online post said on Friday.

MMR prevents measles, mumps and rubella, three common infectious diseases.

Another parent whose child received a DTaP vaccine in April found the expiration date was March 6, the post said.

The vaccine prevents diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough.

The vaccine was produced in 2016 by Changchun Changsheng Bio-tech Co, a pharmaceutical manufacturer in Jilin province that is under investigation for faking production records of rabies vaccines, a serious violation discovered by the State Drug Administration last month. It also produced a substandard DTaP vaccine that may not provide effective immunization.

Some other parents said they could find no information on vaccines that their children were given for preventing epidemic meningitis or encephalitis, according to the post.

The government of Shangluo responded in a statement on Sunday morning that the city has started an investigation, and all vaccines specified in the post were within their dates of expiration.

The city government said the confusion was caused by mistakes in recording vaccine information on receivers' booklets.

The city government is investigating who may be responsible and will hold them accountable, it said.

Experts from the Shaanxi provincial health authority and center for disease control and prevention are verifying the initial conclusions of the city, it added.

Shangluo's center for disease control and prevention did not buy any substandard DTaP vaccines produced by Changchun Changsheng Bio-tech Co, the city's drug authority said last week.

An official with the city's publicity department, who asked not to be named, told China Daily that the investigation team dispatched by the National Health Commission arrived in the city on Monday, but declined to give further details.

Tao Lina, a Shanghai-based public health expert, said experience has shown that vaccines less than six months past their expiration dates can still be effective and safe.

"Vaccines are not as fragile as many imagine," he said.

It is not clear what, if any, damage long-expired vaccines can cause children, he said.
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Ricardo Fierro, a resident of Racine, Wisconsin for over 20 years, was kidnapped outside his home and imprisoned on July 24 by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. Fierro, 39, a father of 7 and local political activist, has drawn support from his family and the community, outraged at his detention. A prayer vigil was held at Monument Square in Racine on Wednesday where approximately 100 people demanded his freedom from the Dodge County Detention Facility.

Fierros attorney, Kevin Layde, told reporters at a news conference on Tuesday that Ricardo had entered the United States when he was 16 with his parents. Ricardo was detained and deported when he was 20 years old after attempting to reenter the country from Mexico. Ricardo had returned to Mexico seeking medicine the family couldnt afford for his sick brother.

Fierro is a member of the Racine Interfaith Coalition (RIC), where he chaired the Immigration Task Force, according to RIC President Linda Boyle. RIC coordinates closely with churches advocating for immigration reform.

Fierro has drawn vocal support from local Democrats including State Representative Greta Neubauer, and Racine Mayor Cory Mason. Neubauer inherited her seat in a January 2018 special election after interning for then-Representative Mason.

Neubauer met Fierro through RIC and the Immigration Task Force. She issued a public letter stating it was a travesty to separate Ricardo from his family, adding, This does not feel like the values we believe in.

But Neubauer is a member of the party that has expanded the powers of the American Gestapo deportation force since the agencys inception in March 2003. The Democratic Party continues to support closed borders and is responsible for passing the statutes leading to the detention of immigrant families.

Neubauers Twitter timeline proudly retweets Randy Bryce, the frontrunner in the Democratic primary to replace Republican Speaker of the House Paul Ryan in Wisconsins 1st Congressional district. Bryce touts his commitment to Abolish ICE but merely proposes replacing it with a new agency to crack down on immigrants. He calls for congress to explore which existing agency could best house immigration and customs enforcement.

This is an effort by the Democratic Party to brand itself as left while continuing the very policies that have led to the deportation of millions of people in recent years.

Sixty-six miles west of Racine, in Janesville, the same day Ricardo was kidnapped, Maria Portugal held a press conference with immigration rights group, Voces de la Frontera. During the press conference she detailed the intimidating threats ICE has been issuing her, including threatening to separate her from her five children if she did not aid ICE in their efforts to deport her ex-husband.

Maria, a survivor of domestic violence, has been estranged from her ex-husband for over a year. Maria has applied for U Visa, which is intended to protect victims of crime from deportation as long as they cooperate with law enforcement.

In a prepared statement, Portugal, stated, Nobody knows where my ex-husband is. Im worried if they deport me, theyll take my daughter away from me, and thats what Im afraid of. Portugals fears are well founded.

The mass kidnapping of children from their parents meets the definition of a war crime, as reports of sexual and physical assault against the detained children continue to mount and hundreds of children remain separated from their families as a result of the Trump administrations zero-tolerance policy.

In Waukesha County, four children have been without their father, Franco D. Ferreyra, 29, since he was arrested on June 11 by ICE, pending deportation. An immigrant from Argentina, Ferreyra was brought to the United States by his parents in 2001. He graduated from South Waukesha High School in 2006 and worked as waiter in Waukesha.

Ferreyras lawyer, Matthew Luening, stated neither he nor his client were given any indication of the impending arrest and that Ferreyra was not given an opportunity to say goodbye to his children.

Waukesha County is currently the only county in Wisconsin that participates in the 287(g) program.

The 287(g) program, one of ICEs top partnership initiatives, allows a state or local law enforcement entity to enter into a partnership with ICE, under a joint Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), in order to receive delegated authority for immigration enforcement within their jurisdictions.

However, Dane County Sheriff Dave Mahoney recently informed local reporters that ICE had contacted his department in the hopes of expanding the program in the Madison area. While Sheriff Mahoney stated that his department wont be participating, this temporary setback wont stop the continued assault on immigrant communities throughout the state.

As Democrats continue to feign shock and outrage at the deportation machine they helped create, the Socialist Equality Party demands the abolition of ICE, Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) and open borders for all. Workers have a right to live and work in the country of their choosing, without fear of deportation or separation.
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order Monday re-imposing, effective today, sweeping US economic sanctions against Iran that had been suspended in January 2016 as part of the Iran nuclear deal.

The sanctions, which Washington is demanding all other countries join it in enforcing, are both illegal and tantamount to an act of war.

Moreover, they are accompanied by increasing US military pressure and threats of war against Tehran. Trump tweeted late last month that Iran would SUFFER CONSEQUENCES THE LIKES OF WHICH FEW THROUGHOUT HISTORY HAVE EVER SUFFERED if it ever THREATEN[ED] the US. In recent days there have been repeated threats, couched as warnings, from the Pentagon that Washington will take whatever military action is necessary to secure freedom of navigation through the Straits of Hormuz, the conduit for much of Iranian and Mideast oil.

Unlike the European Union, the US, under Obama, refused to rescind the brutal economic sanctions they had jointly mounted against Iran from 2011 through 2015, and instead agreed only to suspend them. It claimed the threat of the immediate snap-back of sanctions was needed to ensure Iranian compliance with the nuclear deal.

However, it is Washington that has brazenly broken the agreement. Trump has snapped back sanctions on Iran, even though the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the five other great powers that negotiated the nuclear accord, and even the US State Department are in agreement Tehran has fulfilled its obligations under the accord to the letter.

In May, when he announced the US was torpedoing the Iran accord, Trump still made an attempt, albeit a fatuous one, to argue that Iran was violating the spirit of the agreement. Yesterday he forsook any such pretense. He simply declared the agreement was not in the national security interests of the US and that Washington would wage economic war on Iranwhat he called applying maximum economic pressureuntil it was renegotiated to the US satisfaction.

The demands that Trump and the anti-Iran hawks he has elevated to top posts in his administration, National Security Adviser John Bolton and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, have made for a new agreement would entail Irans bourgeois-nationalist regime effectively agreeing to unilateral disarmament, foregoing in perpetuity the development of a civil nuclear program, and accepting unbridled US domination of the Middle East. These include: scrapping its ballistic missile program; granting the IAEA the right to inspect any Iranian military facility at any time; withdrawing all Islamic Revolutionary Guard forces from Syria and otherwise ending its malign activities; and ceasing logistical support for Mideast groups perceived as obstacles to US foreign policy, such as Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthi rebels in Yemen.

As he signed yesterdays executive order, Trump also threatened the rest of the world, including Washingtons ostensible European and Asian allies. Those who fail to abide by Washingtons sanctions and continue to trade and invest in Iran risk severe consequences, he declared.

Under existing US law, companies and countries that do not adhere to the unilateral and illegal US sanctions against Iran face massive fines, exclusion from the US market and, no less menacing, exclusion from the US-dominated world financial system.

The sanctions that come into force today embargo trade with Iran of commercial aircraft, cars and car parts, gold and other precious metals, coal, aluminum, and steel, as well as Iranian exports of carpets and pistachios.

Yesterdays executive order also fulfilled all requirements under US law for the automatic imposition of a second wave of even more punishing sanctions on November 5. These target all foreign transactions of Irans central bank, with the aim of strangling the countrys external trade, and Irans oil exports, which fund the lions share of the state budget.

Japan, South Korea and India have all sought waivers from the impeding US oil sanctions, similar to those that the Obama administration gave, under which they would steadily reduce, but not entirely halt, oil imports from Iran. The Trump administration, however, is refusing to give any waivers. It insists countries must wind down their oil imports from Iran between now and the beginning of November and that the US objective is to entirely choke off all Iranian oil exports, and do so as close as possible to the November 5 sanctions deadline.

According to the New York Times, senior administration officials boasted about the impact that the threat of sanctions has already had on Irans economy in a conference call with reporters yesterday. The Iranian currency, the rial, has fallen precipitously in value since Trump repudiated the Iran nuclear deal last May, and is now worth in US dollars terms about half of its April value.

Growing crisis in Iran

Facing mounting protests from widely disparate social layers, including the unemployed, teachers protesting low pay, and bazaar merchants and other better-off layers angered by currency controls, Irans government last week fired the head of the central bank and on Sunday abandoned its attempt to limit trading in the rial to a fixed exchange rate.

In a nationally televised appearance last night, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani appealed for unity while warning of further economic dislocation. He denounced Trumps recent offer of talks with himself and other leaders of the Islamic Republic as a sham and a provocation, adding that the precondition for any meaningful talks must be the lifting of all sanctions and Washingtons return to the UN-backed Iran nuclear deal.

If you stab someone with a knife and then you say you want talks, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife, said Rouhani.

We are always in favour of diplomacy and talks, continued the Iranian president, who came to power in 2013 as a proponent of a rapprochement with Washington. But talks need honesty. Trumps call for direct talks is only for domestic consumption in America ahead of elections  and to create chaos in Iran.

The US drive to crash Irans economy is both a massive escalation of the four-decade-long campaign American imperialism has waged to return Iran to the type of neo-colonial bondage that existed under the Shah and the continuation of the series of ruinous wars Washington has imposed on the Middle East since 1991 in a bid to exercise unfettered dominance of the worlds most important oil-exporting region.

Democratic and Republican administrations alike have waged these wars and the associated campaign for regime change in Tehran, and both parties are united today in backing a more aggressive stance against Iran.

However, significant sections of the US military-intelligence establishment and Democratic Party oppose Trumps scuttling of the Iran nuclear accord. This is because they believe that US imperialist interests would be better served by focusing on the US military-strategic offensive against Russia and preparing for conflict with China, and that a more limited escalation against Iran, particularly in Syria, would suffice.

Geopolitical shock waves

Be that as it may, the imposition of punishing economic sanctions on Tehran has placed the US on the fast track toward military confrontation with Iran and demonstratively put the geopolitical prestige and power of the US in play, sending shock waves around the world.

The various great powers must now weigh how they respond to Washingtons attempt to coerce them into imposing sanctions against Iran in flagrant violation of an agreement they helped negotiate and to the growing likelihood of a military confrontation between Iran and the US. Such a war would quickly engulf the entire Middle East and threatenas the fate of much of the worlds oil reserves and dominance of the hinge that unites Europe, Asia and Africa would be at staketo become the antechamber of a global conflagration.

Yesterday the foreign ministers of Germany, France and Britain as well as the European Unions foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini reaffirmed their support for the Iran nuclear deal. In a joint statement, they said it was delivering on its goal, namely to insure that the Iranian [nuclear] program remains exclusively peaceful, and vowed to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran.

Also Monday, the German- and French-led EU said that it will activate today an anti-sanctions law that makes it illegal for a European company to comply with extraterritorial US sanctions and bars European courts from enforcing US sanction penalties.

The EUs anti-sanctions stand is belied, however, by the large number of major and politically well-connected European firms, including the oil giant Total, the shipping company Maersk and the auto manufacturers Peugeot and Daimler, that have already announced they are exiting the Iranian market for fear of facing US penalties. Just three years ago, the French bank BNP Paribas paid an $8.9 billion fine for violating US sanctions against Iran and Cuba.

What is incontrovertible is that Washingtons actions will further exacerbate tensions between the US and Europe and lend new urgency to the drive of all the major European imperialist powers to rearm so as to be able to assert their own predatory interests, independently of and, when necessary, in opposition to the US.

China, which is already immersed in an ever-widening trade war with Washington, has already let it be known that it will not reduce, let alone halt, oil imports from Iran. According to Bloomberg, the only concession China, Irans largest oil customer, would make to the US in talks last week was a promise not to ratchet up Iranian oil purchases as other countries reduce theirs in compliance with US demands.

Russia has denounced the US for repudiating the Iran deal, and US critics of Trumps policy are warning that it could strengthen Tehrans ties with both Moscow and Beijing. However, in recent months, Moscow has signaled that it is ready to assist the US and Israel in pushing Iranian forces out of Syria, including by giving a green light to Israeli air strikes on Iranian forces, as part of its own attempt to reach an accommodation with Washington.
The official death toll has risen to 33, one week after the $1.2 billion joint-venture Xe-Pian Xe Namnoy hydropower dam collapsed in southern Laoss Attapeu province, sending five billion cubic metres of water sweeping through 13 rural villages. Laotian government authorities have warned, however, that unknown numbers victims could be buried in deep mud and debris or were carried away by the deluge.

Government officials claim that 98 people are missing but deputy secretary of Attapeus provincial committee, Meenaporn Chaichompoo, told Al Jazeera last week that over 1,120 people are still unaccounted for. Survivors suggest that the death toll is far higher than official figures and that up to 300 people could have been killed. It was the second dam collapse in Laos in the past year.

Bounna Eemchanthavong, 61, told the media that about 650 people lived in his village before it was devastated but only 65 of them had been found at local shelters.

Tran Van Bien, 47, a resident from Ban Mai village said that he was told to evacuate just two hours before the dam collapsed on Monday evening. He described how he had to rush to his neighbours home with his family as his home was destroyed by the floodwaters, We were on the roof of that house the whole night, cold and scared. At 4 a.m. a wooden boat passed and I decided to send my wife and my kid out.

Another survivor, Silam, a 25-year-old mother of two, said that she did not receive any government warning that the dam was about to collapse. She received a last minute phone call from one of her relatives telling her to run to higher ground as the water hit a nearby rice field.

While water levels have receded in Attapeu province, 6,000 remain homeless and up to 25,000 residents across the border in Northern Cambodia have been forced to evacuate their homes and villages as the floodwaters moved down stream.

The dam collapse devastated the limited transport and communication infrastructure in Attapeu, which is one of Laoss most impoverished provinces and has the countrys highest child-malnutrition rates. The UN reports that the regions water transport network as well as 14 bridges and numerous roads have been severely damaged. Many of the worst affected locations are only accessible by helicopter.

Poor communications and slow rescue and clean-up operations are subjecting thousands to greater risks of malaria and waterborne diseases which are already endemic throughout the region.

The clean-up effort is also complicated by the legacy of US imperialisms carpet bombing of the country during the Vietnam War. Laos remains the most heavily bombed country per capita in history. More than two million tons of ordnance was dropped on the small country from 1964 to 1973equal to a planeload of bombs every 8 minutes, 24-hours a day, for nine years.

According to a UN report, at least 94 percent of the villages in Attapeu province are contaminated by thousands of unexploded bombs. Many of these will have been dislodged by the floods.

South Koreas SK Engineering & Construction Company, which was in charge of construction has attempted to deflect attention from its responsibility for the disaster. It blamed the collapse on heavy monsoonal rains. Korea Western Power Co, another major partner in joint venture, claimed last Thursday that it was still too early to define whether it was a natural disaster or a manmade disaster.

In fact, there were 10 fractures reported at the dam site on Sunday night before the collapse on Monday. An operator working for Korea Western Power also told the AFP news agency that there was 11 centimetres of subsidence found at the dams centre on the Friday before the dam collapse and that alarm bells should have been rung sooner.

Hydropower expert Bruce Shoemaker pointed to irresponsible practices and negligence at dam projects across Laos. He told the New York Times on July 27: The big thing is theres a very poor regulatory environment in Laos private companies get these concessions and theres very little oversight of how theyre implementing it  that is pervasive throughout the hydropower sector.

Richard Meehan, a former dam builder and adjunct professor at Stanford Universitys School of Engineering, told the Times that the potential for a dam collapse is all the more likely when the project is deeply profit-driven, geographically remote, and managed by multiple entities with conflicting interests, poor communications, and zero patience for what they take to be fussy details or delays.

There are 51 existing hydroelectric projects already operating in Laos with 46 under construction. Another 112 are at the development stage.

Last week Lao Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith announced an Ad Hoc Committee to assess the losses and find out the true causes of the disaster.

Members of the committee, however, include SK Engineering & Construction Company and the projects other major shareholdersKorea Western Power, Ratchaburi Electricity Generating Holding PCL of Thailand and the state-owned Lao Holding State Enterprise. All these participants will attempt to deflect attention from their own responsibility.

The Xepian-Xe Namnoy hydropower dam catastrophe is a result of unsafe construction methods and other cost-cutting procedures driven by the profit interests of all its investors, including the Laos government.
An investigation team of the State Council said on Monday that Changchun Changsheng Bio-tech Co has severely violated regulations in the production process of rabies vaccine since April 2014.





According to the announcement, the pharmaceutical manufacturer in Jilin province mixed expired ingredients into vaccines, and faked production dates.





The team assured the substandard vaccines sold at home and overseas will be recalled.





All those responsible will be held accountable for their criminal offences or supervisory negligence, they added.





For those who have not finished vaccination, free vaccines manufactured by other companies will be used. For those who have finished, free re-vaccination will be offered if they are willing.





According to the World Health Organization, the latent period of rabies is usually 1-3 months, rarely over one year.





The company is under investigation for faking production records of rabies vaccines, a serious violation discovered by the State Drug Administration last month. It also produced a substandard DTaP vaccine that may not provide effective immunization.




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New allegations about a city police officer raises a dicey question at City Hall: How do you deal with a cop who, at the very least, has a thing for swastikas?

The activities of Sgt. Mark Kruger, a prominent figure at anti-war protests, came to light after lawyer Alan Graf and the National Lawyers Guild filed a lawsuit against the city, naming several cops, including Kruger.

Learning of the suit, one of Kruger's former friends, Robert Williams, contacted Graf, alleging that in the 1980s Williams sat in the back seat as Kruger drove around town with a guy named Bob Seaver listening to Hitler speeches and yelling racist and homophobic statements at people ("The Badge and the Swastika," WW, Oct. 1, 2003).

Kruger has since admitted wearing Nazi uniforms, explaining that he is a history buff, but denies ever engaging in racist activities or holding Nazi beliefs.

Seaver, Kruger's longtime friend, disagrees. Until recently he declined requests for interviews, but now he is breaking his silence--to atone for his past transgressions, he says. His account echoes Williams' allegations and updates them--with videotape.

According to Seaver, as teens he and Kruger spray-painted Nazi graffiti such as "Heil Hitler" and "SS Rules" on Rocky Butte. The graffiti, some of which appears on an old video documenting the spray-painting activities, remains there today.

What's more, Seaver, who says he met with Kruger until recently, claims the officer's activities continued into his adulthood. He says that in 1999, employed by the Portland Police Bureau, Kruger built a shrine on Rocky Butte called "The Ehrenbaum," or the Honor Tree, which honored five Nazi soldiers. Graf's investigator, in an affidavit, says he couldn't find the shrine but found screws on the ground where Seaver said it had been attached to a tree.

Seaver's affidavit also makes allegations about Kruger's attitude toward several mini-controversies:

* In August 2002, TV cameras caught Kruger pepper-spraying Channel 12 camerawoman Beth English point-blank in the face, sending her to the hospital ("Red-Pepper Blues," WW, Aug. 28, 2002). According to Seaver's affidavit, Kruger laughed about that spraying, saying he would probably never be identified.

* In March 2003, The Oregonian photographed Kruger grabbing a young female protester by the face because she swore at him, shoving her into a police van. Seaver claims Kruger said he planned to order a copy of the photo so he could frame it.

* That same month, the local Indymedia website posted photos of Kruger pepper-spraying a young female protester as she shrieked in terror, after which Kruger appeared to laugh about it with a fellow officer ("Tales of the Tape," WW, April 2, 2003). Seaver says Kruger had him post a response: "Never Question Authority!"

Seaver told WW he doesn't think Kruger's views have changed much. "I think Mark is somebody who is very entrenched right now," he says. "But I would hope that someday he would maybe reconnect with humanity and understand that the things I've seen and helped him do were very wrong."

Asked about the case, Mayor Vera Katz, replying through spokesman Scott Farris, said she "does not have any personal knowledge of this case and therefore does not want to comment."

Bob Hornstein, of the Jewish Federation of Portland, said he had no knowledge of the case. But given the allegations, he said, "If these charges are true it would be very troubling, obviously."

WWeek 2015
President Trump's 'space force' prepares for launch originally appeared on abcnews.go.com

President Donald Trumps call for a Space Force may sound like something out of this world, but its set to come one step closer to reality this week when the Pentagon is expected to deliver to Congress its plans to strengthen the Defense Departments space efforts.

But when announced on Thursday the Pentagons plan could fall short of Trumps stated wish to add a sixth military service, which would require an act of Congress.

According to a White House official, Vice President Mike Pence will unveil the plan during a speech at the Pentagon on Thursday.

The expected report comes after President Trump made a surprise announcement during a National Space Council meeting in June that he was directing the military to undertake the galactic mission.

I'm hereby directing the Department of Defense and Pentagon to immediately begin the process necessary to establish a space force as the sixth branch of the armed forces. That's a big statement. We are going to have the Air Force and we are going to have the Space Force  separate but equal. It is going to be something, President Trump said at the June 18th meeting, scanning the room and locking eyes with Joint Chiefs of Staff Chair Gen Joseph Dunford: General? Got it?

We got it, Dunford responded to the commander-in-chief.

(MORE: Everything you need to know about Trump's 'Space Force')

While the functions of an imagined Space Force are already being carried out  at least in part - by the Air Force, President Trump has argued that an additional military service is the answer to addressing the nations military vulnerabilities in space.

"The Air Force is going to focus on the Air Force. We need a separate branch, and we're working on that. It's called the Space Force, which is very exciting. People love it, people love it, they get it, and they love it, the president said on July 5.

Story continues

While President Trump ultimately cannot add a sixth service without Congressional approval, the Pentagon is moving forward to the extent that is already within the executive branchs authority to stand up certain elements of a future Space Force.

Last week the military-focused news outlet Defense One exclusively reported on a draft of the Pentagons plans that called for the creation of a new combatant command for space, a new joint agency for satellite purchases, and a new warfighting community that draws space operators from all service branches.

An administration official confirmed to ABC News that all three of those things are in the option box of the administration's report that is set to go to Congress this week and that the administration believes are all within the executive branchs authority to carry out unilaterally. Steps further down the line, the official said, will include a formal legislative proposal and budget request that would require Congressional cooperation.

On Tuesday, Defense Secretary James Mattis expressed support for the idea of creating a new combatant command dedicated to space. Such a move would elevate space to the same level as the regional commands like U.S. Central Command for the Middle East and topic-based commands like Cyber Command. But it would fall short of establishing a new military service dedicated to space as President Trump has advocated.

Asked if he supports establishing a combatant command for space, Mattis told Pentagon reporters, "Yes. Absolutely, we need to address space as a developing war fighting domain, and a combatant command is certainly one thing that we can establish."

"We are in complete alignment with the president's concern about protecting our assets in space and contribute to our security, our economy" said Mattis. "And we're going to have to address it as other countries show a capability to attack those assets."

Mattis noted that the Pentagon is in "complete agreement" with the White House and has been working with Pence's office and Capitol Hill to find solutions to the issueHe said the final organization of a Space Force will be "fit for purposes," but offered no timeline on its final creation.

The administration's new focus on creating a Space Force is a departure from its posture on the utility of a new space-focused unit within the military just a year ago. When the idea of creating a space corps within the Air Force was brought before Congress in 2017, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis rejected the idea as a superfluous additional organizational and administrative tail on the military.

(MORE: Trump directs creation of 'Space Force' as sixth branch of military)

At a time when we are trying to integrate the departments joint warfighting functions, I do not wish to add a separate service that would likely present a narrower and even parochial approach to space operations, Mattis said in a 2017 letter responding to Rep. Michael R. Turner, R-Ohio, who who has spearheaded the congressional effort in favor of Space Corps.

Whats changed since then is that President Trump has become increasingly focused on the subject and concluded that a new military branch is needed.

The president first started publicly mulling the idea of creating a Space Force earlier this year, making one of his first public remarks on the topic during an address to Marines in March. He then moved to sign an executive order calling on the Pentagon to move forward with his vision in June.

PHOTO: President Donald Trump holds up the space policy directive that he signed during a National Space Council meeting in Washington, June 18, 2018. (Susan Walsh/AP)

Space is a war-fighting domain just like the land, air, and sea, the president said. We may even have a space forcedevelop another onespace force. We have the Air Force, well have the Space Force. We have the Army, the Navy.

The original report to Congress was due on August 1, but was subsequently delayed. Asked last week about reported frictions between the White House and the Pentagon on the issue, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said the process of finding an agreeable solution was ongoing.

We're continuing to work with the Department of Defense to figure out and determine the best way forward, something the president feels strongly about, and we're going to work with our team there, and figure out the best solution, Sanders said.

An administration official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, described the back-and-forth between the Pentagon and White House as part of the normal course of business in producing a major report to Congress and described it as a constructive process.

The back and forth is obviously is an intense process, it takes a lot of discussion, so I think what everyone is seeing is theres a lot of public discussion on this topic, the official said, noting that the presidents public comments on the issue have provided clarity in developing a proposal that is in line with the presidents vision. Pentagon spokesperson Col. Rob Manning told reporters on Monday that the Department of Defense would get the report to Congress as soon as possible, but wouldnt elaborate further on the cause for delay.

Since the presidents public declarations of support for a Space Force earlier this year, Secretary Mattis has also publicly changed his tune on the issue. He told Congress in April that he is open to the idea, even as he has also voiced a level of skepticism about whether adding another bureaucratic branch to the military is needed.

"If a Space Force is the right thing to do, I have no reservations about it. But I don't want to stand up in DoD, which is an enormous bureaucracy and has many sub bureaucracies, another bureaucracy as if that will be the solution, Mattis said. Do we want to set up another force and we have to make certain it solves the problem before we put out the money for an entirely new military, from recruiting to training and everything else, it might be the right thing to do though."

As the Pentagon now works to implement the presidents vision, the former Air Force secretary during the Obama administration, Deborah Lee James, asserted recently that the top brass of the military remain privately opposed.

None of them are in favor of a Space Force, I say none of the top leaders, but theyre stuck, James said in reference to the Pentagons leadership during a July event at the Brookings Institute. The President has said it and itll be interesting to see how they now deal with it.

PHOTO: The service structure is rolled away from NASA's Orion spaceship, Dec. 4, 2014, in Cape Canaveral, Fla. (Chris O'Meara/AP Photo)

But the current secretary of the Air Force, Heather Wilson, has publicly expressed openness to the idea of a Space Force following the presidents directive, despite previously angling to keep the space domain under the command of the Air Force. Wilson has praised the president for raising public awareness about the unique military threats posed in space.

Both the chief of staff and I are actually very glad that  people are becoming more aware and having a debate about what we do about this as a nation, and that just wasnt really there before, Wilson said during a Washington Post event in July.

As the highest ranking civilian currently overseeing the militarys space-based operations, Wilson has warned about the real and present vulnerabilities posed in space.

The U.S. military currently has 77 satellites in orbit that could be vulnerable to potential attack from adversaries like Russia and China that have taken aggressive postures in space. She pointed to Chinas successful demonstration in 2007 of its capabilities to explode satellites through the use of a guided missile, a move that was condemned by the US and other nations at the time, as a particularly troubling development.

The United States is determined to protect our capability on orbit, were going to defend ourselves, and were developing the capability to do that, Wilson said before delivering a message to the nations adversaries: I want them to have no doubt, if they seek to contest the United States in space that we will defend ourselves.

NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine has also echoed Wilsons warnings that Americas adversaries are looking at the United States vulnerabilities in space as a military advantage, saying the Chinese have called space the American Achilles heel and the president is right to be focused on hardening the U.S. military posture in space.

Our very way of life is dependent on space, Bridenstine said in a recent interview with CBS News. The way we navigate, the way we communicate over the horizon communications, the way we produce food, the way we produce energy, the way we do disaster relief and in fact the way we do banking in the USA, if we lose the GPS signal, there are no inner bank transfers, that means there will be no milk in the grocery stores, our way of life shuts down, and thats why hostile countries around the world are taking action to make these capabilities vulnerable for the USA.

Bridenstine supports the presidents call for creating a Space Force as NASA administrator and also voted in support of creating a Space Corps within the Air Force when he was a member of Congress.

While there is broad recognition of the necessity of protecting the U.S. militarys assets in space  with satellites playing a central role in modern everyday life and military operations  there remains vigorous debate about the virtues of creating a separate military branch.

Senators James Inhofe, R-Oklahoma, and Mike Rounds, R-South Dakota, who are both on the Armed Services Committee, have indicated that they would not be likely to support a separate branch.

Former Secretary James, for one, argues that creating a new branch of the military does not increase the militarys effectiveness in space missions, though she is supportive of propping up a unified command to orchestrate space-focused military missions.

A military service trains, organizes, and equips, it doesnt war fight. The combatant commands do the war fight, James said. I am much more in favor of that approach because I think that would really be the ticket for solving the problem that everyone is mostly focused on.

The idea of a separate space-focused combatant command is included in the Pentagons August report to Congress, according to the administration official.

Testifying before the House Armed Services Committee in March, the former deputy assistant secretary of defense for space policy similarly pushed back on the creation of a separate Space Corps.

"Space is a different kind of domain than air," Doug Loverro told the committee during a hearing on space warfighting readiness. "We don't need to move it out of the Air Force in order to go ahead and create the space-smart civilian and military force that we need.

Retired NASA astronaut Scott Kelly, who also served 25 years in the Navy, blasted the concept of creating a Space Force as an expensive, and likely redundant, undertaking.

Any time you add more bureaucracy to an already large bureaucracy, it's going to cost a lot of money. I think the capability we're talking about is something that probably already exists in the U.S. military, in the Air Force, Navy, other armed services, Kelly said in an interview with NBC. "It's not clear to me what the purpose is of this new branch of the military, which is going to be incredibly expensive.

Even as the Pentagon gets underway in laying the groundwork for a Space Force, the crucial step of actually creating a 6th service branch wont be up for serious consideration on Capitol Hill until next year. Congress recently finalized the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act that outlines funding and organization of the military. It made no mention of a separate Space Force.
A breastfeeding mom who was asked to cover up at a restaurant did so with a comedic flourish that has the internet in hysterics.

Last week, Facebook user Carol Lockwood shared a photo of Melanie Dudley nursing her 4-month-old baby in a hotel bistro with a blanket completely covering her head. A friends daughter-in-law was told to cover up while feeding her baby, so she did! stated the post with 90 thousand reactions, 12 thousand comments, and 169 thousand shares. Ive never met her, but I think shes AWESOME!!! (Please share! With permission, Ive made this post public  Im SO over people shaming women for nursing!!!

Lockwood wrote, PS: To reduce speculation: it was a man who asked her to cover up, it was 90 degrees and extremely humid, and, no, she wasnt in a Muslim country disrespecting traditions.

As with most cases of public breastfeeding, people shared their opinions:

Nothing wrong with breastfeeding, but I feel they should cover themselves, not their heads, but the exposed area.



I still think theres a time and place to nurse and nothing wrong with being a little discreet about it.

Most women do use a cover but if they choose not to, then the people who are offended should look away and not stare. Even children dont stare as much as some adults do.

Dudley, 34, a stay-at-home mother from Austin, Texas, who also has 4-year-old twins, tells Yahoo Lifestyle that the move was spontaneous. I was on vacation in Cabo San Lucas with my entire family and a man asked me to cover myself, she says. Im usually discreet, but we were seated in the back of the restaurant.

In response, Dudley asked her husband to hand her a cover, then threw it over her face right before he snapped a photo.

Other women have issued creative replies when facing shame for public nursing. In 2017, Nicolle Blackman gave the same response when a female stranger, concerned with her husbands wandering gaze, asked her to cover up in a Washington state McDonalds.

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Breastfeeding Mom Takes A Literal Approach To Being Asked To Cover Up https://t.co/EMiHppguVx pic.twitter.com/Q3ANG3y3nK  The Bump (@thebump) September 21, 2017

I was very annoyed when she said that, Blackman told the U.K. Independent. Why would I cover up my son? He holds his breath when hes covered.

Im hoping to help other women by speaking out about it to encourage them to stand up for their children, she said. Just do whatever is best for them. If they want to cover thats fine, if they dont thats fine too.

Four months earlier, according to Today, new mom Avery Lane of Fort Gordon, Ga., who was asked to cover up with a towel or something while nursing her newborn at H&R Block, responded, No, but I have a muslin if you would like to cover your face. You must not know Georgias breastfeeding laws.

Dudleys response is perfectly appropriate given that August is National Breastfeeding Month, of which the first week is reserved for World Breastfeeding Week. Both observances highlight the benefits of nursing and generate support for women who choose to do so.

Public breastfeeding is legal in all 50 states. However, awareness is generally lacking  in June, an Oregon doctor asked a nursing mother to cover herself up during an appointment to prevent lawsuits from something inappropriate occurring (the mother responded by hiring a lawyer), and last week, police in New Jersey were called on breastfeeding Michelle Ayala, who was feeding her 2-year-old in a public park. He said, I support you completely, thank you for your time, your patience, Ayala said of the responding officer, according to NBC New York.

Dudley says that although her photo has received some negativity, its also built momentum for mothers who choose to breastfeed publicly. Breastfeeding is hard enough, she tells Yahoo Lifestyle. This is another layer we dont need to deal with.

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Here come the brides!

A pair of identical twin sisters has married a pair of identical twin brothers  and twin ministers officiated the ceremony.

Brothers Joshua and Jeremy Salyers, 34, proposed to sisters Brittany and Briana Deane, 32, in Twin Lakes, Virginia, in February using identical rings.

The couples were married at the same time by twin ministers in a town fitting for their story  Twinsburg, Ohio  over the weekend.

The joint ceremony took place at the 2018 Twins Days Festival, where they first met a year ago.

"We saw them from afar and we thought they were just the most handsome guys," one of the sisters told Inside Edition.

The couples plan to live in the same house and they say they will raise their children together.

Their wedding will air as a TLC special in early 2019 to give viewers a behind-the-scenes look at their lives together.

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The Ku Klux Klan, in an attempt to possibly recruit young people, has begun to distribute plastic bags with white supremacist propaganda and candy bars in Rome, N.Y., according to CNN.

The Ziploc bags were dropped off at the end of driveways in Westmoreland, Rome, and other towns around Oneida County in the early morning, around the time schoolchildren would be waiting for their buses to arrive.

Bags containing candy and a flyer promoting the Ku Klux Klan was found in the early morning at the end of driveways in Rome, N.Y. (Photo: Oneida County Sheriffs Office)

They come between 4 and 6 in the morning so the candy bars and packets are at the end of the driveway when kids are getting on the school bus, Denise Szarek of the Westmoreland Board of Education told CNN. The community they hit was a mobile home park, so there were a lot of kids in the area, and they hit on some of the side roads too. Our feeling was that the children [were] being targeted  at least the high-school and middle-school kids in that age group.

Not only is the KKK still active in 2018 now they are using candy and propaganda to shanghai kids into it  C a m e r o n (@GideonKurai) August 5, 2018

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a news release, While President Trump and Republicans in Washington sow divisiveness and hate that is spreading like a cancer across the country, in New York we say not here, not now, not ever, adding, New York has zero tolerance for intolerance.

My theory is that its someone local whos downloading them, printing them out and passing it around, Szarek said. I mean, it really could be anyone. But I think were naive if we think that KKK members arent here, arent present in our communities.

Mayor Jacqueline Izzo also issued a statement that was posted on the city of Romes Facebook page, saying, in part: We are sending a clear message that the City of Rome will not tolerate this type of activity, and at no time should our citizens not feel safe in their homes and neighborhoods.

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While the post had some people thanking the mayor for releasing a statement, other users had quite a different point of view.

In response to the website that was included in the KKKs flyer, which read, We are an active world-wide organization striving to protect and preserve White Christian heritage and culture. If you want to play an active part in the preservation of the White race you may submit an application. For God, Race and Nation! One commenter wrote, So we cant preserve our race and culture? But every other race can. Others commented that whoever was behind the flyers was not committing a crime.

The office of Gov. Cuomo is urging any New York resident who has experienced bias or discrimination and wants to file a complaint to call the Division of Human Rights toll-free hotline at (888) 392-3644 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, or text HATE to 81336.

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SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  A man was killed and two others were injured Monday in a shooting on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge that caused several cars to collide and shut down all traffic lanes for hours, authorities said.

The three men were riding in a sport utility vehicle heading from San Francisco to Oakland about 2:20 a.m. when a vehicle pulled alongside it and someone opened fire at the SUV, California Highway Patrol Officer Bert Diaz said.

The driver of the SUV died at the scene, and another man was shot and wounded. A third man suffered injuries from the collision, Diaz said. The injured men were taken to San Francisco General Hospital.

The SUV swerved and hit a sedan, Diaz said.

Raul Lopez tells KTVU he was driving home to Oakland when he heard five shots and seconds later an SUV crashed against the front of his car and made his car spin around. He was not hurt.

"I went to see if they were OK, and when I walked to the SUV the driver was dead on the scene," Lopez said.

Another man was shot on the arm., he said. "I helped him out and threw a white shirt on him so I could stop the bleeding because he was bleeding pretty bad," Lopez said.

Two of the five eastbound lanes remained closed for hours while officials investigated, causing major traffic delays in one of the main traffic arteries in the Bay Area.
General elections were held in Cambodia on July 29, 2018 to elect members of the sixth National Assembly As widely speculated for months, Prime Minister Hun Sen's Cambodian People's Party (CPP) swept the election for the National Assembly for sixth time in a row.

This is largely because the main political opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) had boycotted the election amid a government crackdown on its main leader Kem Sokha. Recalling back to the 2013 election, Hun Sen's party captured power with just a 4 percent vote share lead over its main rival CNRP. The other 19 parties that participated in the election are smaller and obscure parties in which several of them were seen as proxies for the ruling party.

The electoral outcome which allows Hun Sen to lengthen his 33-year-long hold over the impoverished and deeply divided nation has attracted widespread global condemnation from countries such as the United States and European Union. International observers including Human Rights Watch have called the elections "fundamentally flawed" and a "meaningless exercise" as the main opposition has been denied a chance to effectively participate.

Sochua Ma, vice president (in exile) of CNPR called on the international community to call out the "sham election," which he labeled an "electoral circus" and the "death of democracy in Cambodia." As expected, condemnation and criticism has poured over the outcome of the election in Cambodia.

Nonetheless, the outcome of the sixth general election is viewed as a significant step by many analysts who consider it to further strengthen the post-Khmer Rouge peace efforts as well as likely to accelerate Cambodia's already high economic growth. The World Bank has projected a 6.9 percent growth for 2018 and it expects the impoverished nation to flourish in the sectors of agriculture, tourism, textiles and apparel exports. High growth is required to lift the 16 million strong population out of poverty.

And the key architect of this turnaround is none other than controversial Hun Sen, a former Khmer Rouge commander who defected from Pol Pot's murderous regime to join the Vietnamese backed government in 1979 to become the country's prime minister in 1985. However, his party lost the first post-war election to royalists in 1993, forcing him to share power with Prince Norodom Ranariddh. In 1997, Hun Sen engineered a coup to unseat Ranariddh and become the full-fledged prime minister of the conflict-ravaged country. Since then, he has won all the elections (1998, 2003, 2008, 2013 and 2018) making him the longest serving prime minister in the whole of Southeast Asia.

The country's postwar reconstruction activities fueled largely by international donations and aid and rising economic growth have helped Hun Sen to maintain his popularity especially among the rural population.

Yet his high-handed behavior, especially the crackdown on the leaders of the other main political parties as well as restrictions on the free press and civil society organizations is increasingly making him a global pariah. The shutdown of the influential The Cambodia Daily was the most glaring act recently. Thus, while Cambodia's GDP has increased manifold in recent decades, the country's human rights record has taken a steep nosedive.

The immediate fallout of the highly controversial election is possible economic sanctions from the U.S. and European Union. While China has been playing a lead role in fueling the country's recent growth, Cambodia has deep economic ties with the Western countries, particularly the U.S. and the EU.

For instance, out of $18.6 billion worth of foreign exports in 2016, the U.S. alone received 18 percent of them ($3.20 billion). It also exported $5.26 billion to EU in 2016. Thus, the country stands at a critical crossroad. A deeply fractured conflict-ridden country with a large impoverished population, Cambodia can hardly withstand serious economic sanctions as being currently debated in western capitals.

At the moment, Cambodia and its leadership, despite being autocratic and highhanded, needs to be engaged with and persuaded. The international community would do well not to resort to "failed" economic sanctions which often produce bizarre and highly undesirable consequences. Finally, democracy and good governance take time and prolonged nourishment.

Niranjan Sahoo is Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi.

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
Ask these questions to impress your interviewer and learn important information about the job. (Photo: sturti / Getty Images)

No matter how prepared you are, a job interview is a nerve-wracking experience. You have to answer a torrent of questions on the spot and sell yourself to a hiring manager  sometimes even a room full of strangers. And when it comes time for you to do the asking, will you be ready?

These days, its pretty standard for an interviewer to conclude by asking if you have any questions about the job. And what you ask can make or break your chances.

We talked to recruiters, hiring managers and people who landed jobs for the best questions to ask if you want to impress the interviewer and glean important information about your potential new gig.

1. What made you choose my resume for an interview?

As someone who has been hiring interns and junior staff for the past 10 years, the most memorable question I had a candidate ask me was this one. It flipped the script on me because I was so used to asking Why should we hire you? Instead, I had to tell her what I liked about her experience and application, which is absolutely great insight to receive during the interview process. Its like getting free career advice.  Laura Meditz, vice president of Poston Communications

2. What are the biggest challenges faced by your company/department today?

I like asking this question to get a real sense of what they feel is most needed in their business. It could be a specific skill, improved processes or just additional resources to handle workload. Answers to this question will help you understand what your job will entail and give you the opportunity to explain how you could tackle your employers biggest challenge. On the other hand, if their biggest struggle doesnt match your skills or expectations, it could be a useful red flag before accepting a new job.  Daniel Buchuk, director of communications at Bringg

3. What makes you different from your competitors?

When I applied for my current job, I asked questions about the companys competitors and how they differentiated themselves. This is a good question to ask because companies want to see that you are diligent enough to do your homework in advance of the meeting and have a genuine interest in the field you are moving into.  Casey Hill, blogger at Musings of Entrepreneurship

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4. Can you give me an example of how you live out the company values?

I like to find out what values the company promotes on their career page  passion, integrity, accountability, etc.  and Ill ask the interviewer how they live one or more of those values, especially as a manager. If the interviewer is dumbfounded, it typically shows that the values are nothing more than empty messaging. If they can answer the question, it shows the company believes in and instills its values in employees and the interviewer is probably a thoughtful manager.  Jennifer Bewley of Get Uncuffed

5. What is your training program like?

I have found that reputable companies will answer this question by saying that the training period is as long as a new employee needs. Training that is rushed or fast-tracked to meet a quota or deadline isnt an effective way to find reputable and reliable employees. Any new job comes with a learning curve; a good company will offer thorough training and help employees to obtain all the skills they need to be successful in the company.  Carlee Linden, writer for Best Company

6. What recent diversity hiring and promotion efforts are you most excited about?

As a woman of color who is also very keen on advancing in her career, I often ask questions that would give me an insight into the companys diversity efforts. I also almost always follow this question by requesting a tour of the office. Youd be surprised what you can glean just by walking around. It gives me an insight into whether their response is canned or truly embodied by the organization.  Stella Odogwu, founder and CEO of Intelle Coaching Solutions

7. What do you enjoy most about working here?

First off, if the interviewer cant answer this question, there should be sirens going off in your head that this might not be the greatest place to work. That said, most of the time, it allows an opportunity to get personal with the interviewer and allow them to talk about themselves for a change. This mutual exchange results in a stronger bond while allowing you to learn more about some of the great things the company has to offer.  Alex Benjamin, professional recruiter and owner of resume writing service Recruiter Written

8. What are the most successful team members doing differently from the average team member?

If there is one thing that interviewees could do that would help them stand out from other candidates, it would be to be bold, speak with confidence and ask questions that hint you are a high performer who is looking to succeed with the company. This question shows drive to outperform mediocracy while also learning more about the expectations of the work required to achieve excellence in the position.  Emily LaRusch, CEO and founder of Back Office Betties

9. How will you know whether you hired the right person three months from now?

I love this question because as a job seeker, it gives you a clear idea of the hiring managers goals, expectations and objectives for you if you are hired. It also gives you a chance to pause and consider if the answer sounds like things you will enjoy. It can add a bit more clarity to the job and the results the company is hoping to achieve by filling this position.  Helen Godfrey, owner of career counseling service the Authentic Path

10. How would your co-workers describe your management style?

Its important to ask about your potential managers leadership style but not just what they think about themselves. Asking what their peers and direct reports would say of their management style is key  even better if theyre open to you talking to one of their direct reports about their leadership. A manager can make or break a job, so getting more context around the people youll be working with most closely will help in decision making.  Julia Missaggia, human resources director at CMI/Compas

11. Can you show me around before we wrap up?

This question allows applicants to differentiate themselves at the end of their interviews by creating a unique experience with the interviewer that wont be shared among other candidates. In fact, I can still recall my interview many years back with a candidate who asked me this very question. It breaks hiring managers out of their routines and forces them to leave the interview room and interact more naturally with the candidate.  Peter Yang, co-founder of ResumeGo

A few more tips to nail your interview:

Stick to open-ended questions. Even though job interviews can feel like interrogations, theyre supposed to be conversations between you and the interviewer. To keep the conversation flowing, avoid questions that can be answered with a simple yes or no.

Dont ask questions with obvious answers. You shouldnt ask questions just for the sake of asking; interviewers will see right through you. Do your research ahead of time and avoid asking for basic information that could easily be found on the company website.

Be respectful of everyones time. The interviewer likely has many other job interviews to conduct on top of meetings and regular job duties. Pick two or three important questions to ask rather than barraging them with all 11. Even better, try to weave in your questions throughout the conversation instead of waiting until the end of the interview.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly attributed a quote to Carly Kuper. Julia Missaggia at CMI/Compas was the source of the quote.

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Also on HuffPost

"Please let me know if I misunderstood"  Lindsay Bacher (@lindsayinMPLS) August 22, 2017

Subject line : Friendly Reminder  {Deep Sigh} (@RuffinMuch) August 22, 2017

Can we add "duly noted - However"  stephanie guy (@_StephanieGuy) August 23, 2017

"Going forward, I would prefer that you..."  Femmy From Da Bronx (@FeministaJones) August 22, 2017

The most recent one included, "for transparency and in case of audit" the one before that included "to ensure all documents are reconciled"  Buttercup (@DeeDeeJonee) August 22, 2017

See, I like to begin my emails with shade so there's no confusion:

Instead of:

"Hello Karen,"

use

"Karen,"  Emily Williams (@mle0908) August 22, 2017

"Just to reiterate..." and then highlight and bold what was clearly stated in said email chain.  JayHova Stark (@DarkandLuuNEY) August 22, 2017

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
The Daily Beast

DANIEL SLIM/AFP via Getty ImagesTwo foreign female tourists were caught in a crossfire between rival crime groups and shot to death last Thursday in the high-end resort town of Tulum, Mexico. Three other people were also wounded when the firefight broke out in the popular restaurant, La Malquerida, not far from the beach. Of the two women who were killed, one was from Germany and the other India.They were just in the wrong place at the wrong time, and got caught in an exchange of gunfire betwee
The 2018-19 Premier League season is upon us. Kickoff, believe it or not, is just days away. To get you set for the planets most enthralling 38-game soccer circuit, Yahoo Sports Premier League XI will delve into the 11 most compelling questions ahead of the coming campaign. Next up is the gap between Big Six and Other 14, and the candidates to bridge it.

Back in the day, there was no gap. No definitive distinction. And therefore very little significance attached to sixth place. Six was just a number, no different than five or seven.

But back in the day, the Premier Leagues landscape was different.

Even 10 years ago, when the Big Four  Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool  ruled Englands top flight, there was no $100-plus million revenue gap between them and the rest. There were no market restrictions  Financial Fair Play  that cemented it.

And there has surely never been anything like this: Heading into the 2018-19 season, bookmakers have set the point total over/under for their projected sixth-place team at 71; for their seventh-place team at 52; and for their 20th-place team at 34.

Think about that for a second.

And then think about the logic and evidence behind it. Think about the widening financial chasm. Think about the fact that, for the first time in league history, only six EPL teams finished with positive goal differentials last season; and that, per Understat, only six had positive non-penalty Expected Goal differentials.

The gulf between elites and non-elites is as large as ever. We said it last year. Well scream it even louder this time around. And well pose a question 

In 2017-18, for only the second time in Premier League history, the top six were unchanged from one year to the next. Never before have the same six maintained their grip on the top of the table three years in a row. Can anybody prevent such a unique threepeat in 2018-19? Are there any disruptors lying in wait?

Are there any candidates to break up the Big Six?

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Spoiler alert: The answer is probably no.

Consider the question for two minutes, and thats the conclusion at which youll arrive. Dive deep into research and analysis, and its still the verdict to which youll come.

The inhibitive problems are multifarious. Everton, under majority owner Farhad Moshiri, has had the ambition. It has spent over $400 million on transfers since the summer of 2016. But under manager Ronald Koeman and director of football Steve Walsh, it was woefully mismanaged. All that money was, for the most part, misspent. The result is a still-incoherent squad recovering from last summers incompetence. In theory, Everton is the most talented of the Other 14. But unless new coach Marco Silva works magic, its tough to envision a 60-point season.

Marco Silva and Everton might be the Premier Leagues best hope when it comes to breaking up the Big Six. (Getty)

Elsewhere, Leicester and Southampton were the last two clubs to crack the top six. But the Foxes lost their best player from a 47-point team, and the Saints have lost their way.

West Ham, meanwhile, has matched Evertons ambition, but is even more dysfunctional. Burnley, last seasons surprise seventh-place finisher, was as fluky as can be. Crystal Palace might be sneaky good, but not top-six good  certainly not after a quiet transfer window in which it lost more than it gained.

And then there are Wolves, half-newly promoted side, half-watered down Portuguese Liga all-star team. They are the wild card. The great unknown. They, too, have the necessary ambition, and devious means to satisfy it. They have a recent history of resounding success, albeit at a lower level. Could a team three months removed from the Championship really be the most likely disruptor? It has the seventh-best title odds. It may very well be. (More on Wolves later in the week.)

But only because were grasping at straws, and looking for high ceilings, irrespective of floors. Wolves, West Ham and Everton are our best bets. In London, theres a non-zero chance Manuel Pellegrini pulls off a 2011-12 Malaga, with former Lazio playmaker Felipe Anderson pulling the strings. On Merseyside, theres a case to be made for the Toffees talent. But none of these cases is particularly good.

So to answer the question, the better strategy might be to search not for the disruptor, but for the disrupted.

The Other 14s best hope is a Big Six implosion

It was only three seasons ago that Chelsea spun into disarray. Jose Mourinho was sacked in December having lost nine of 16 league matches. The Blues finished 10th, essentially forcing insurgents to emerge  though Leicester, of course, needed no invitation.

For there to be a Big Six interruption, one of the six has to slip. At the very least, it has to meet the overachieving mid-table plebe halfway. And thats certainly not unthinkable.

Of the six, Mourinhos Manchester United might actually have the lowest floor. Envision the worst-case scenario: Mourinhos relationships with his players deteriorate to untenable levels. Paul Pogba and agent Mino Raiola engineer his exit in January after a tumultuous first half. Mourinho goes full Conte on United executives and is axed. The 2015-16 Chelsea potential is real here, especially considering Uniteds xGD from Oct. 1 onward last season was only plus-2.0. David De Gea regression could realistically drag it down below 60 points.

Elsewhere, Chelsea could be a mess in year one under Maurizio Sarri. The squad doesnt suit his style. The mismatch, akin to a NASCAR driver attempting to race in a Honda Civic, could yield strings of disappointing results and a frustration-fueled snowball effect. Youd bet on Sarris ability to solve vexing puzzles, so a sub-60 point total seems like a bit of a stretch. But low 60s certainly isnt out of the question.

And then theres Arsenal, drained of top-notch talent by the final phase of Arsene Wengers reign. The Gunners, frankly, just werent very good last year. Theyre the worst of the Big Six. At the same time, 2017-18 felt like a nadir. If the nadir is 63 points, thats not much encouragement to the Other 14.

All of which is to say that there are plausible scenarios, albeit unlikely ones  sort of like Chelseas implosion under Mourinho. In one sense, that 2015-16 campaign is recent evidence that the top six arent entrenched.

But the issue with that reasoning is that Chelseas collapse was a one-in-a-hundred occurrence. Everything went wrong. And yet, even if the Blues or Mourinho were to replicate it to a T in 2018-19, theres a non-zero chance theyd still finish sixth. Only wildly overperforming Burnley finished above 50 points among the Other 14 last season.

The Premier Leagues unpredictability has made fools of us all before, often enough to temper assumptions of continued dominance by the elite. But it will take a confluence of improbable series of events to unseat any of the Big Six this season.

Monday: What could derail Man Citys title defense?

Monday: Can Sarri revolutionize or stabilize Chelsea?

Monday: Whos getting relegated?

Tuesday: Who, if anybody, can break up the top six?

Tuesday: Is Liverpool closing on City?

Tuesday: What to expect at Arsenal post-Wenger?

Wednesday: Is a Mourinho flameout already underway?

Wednesday: Is Spurs trophy deadline approaching?

Wednesday: Wolves: Shady, brilliant, or both?

Thursday a.m.: Predictions

Thursday p.m.: Transfer window winners/losers

(Illustration via Amber Matsumoto/Yahoo Sports)

      

Henry Bushnell covers global soccer for Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Question? Comment? Email him at henrydbushnell@gmail.com, or follow him on Twitter @HenryBushnell, and on Facebook.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, which feels like it's been crafted out of a single massive block of steel, is a pretty indestructible vehicle. Even so, a standard G-Class probably doesn't stop bullets, which is where a Canadian company called Inkas comes in.

The Canadian upfitter has created a stretched and armoured version of the 2018 G-Class G63, listed on its website as a limousine. So if a 'regular' armoured G-Class or S-Class Merc isn't spacious enough for your needs, this could be just the vehicle you're looking for. But with a starting price of $1.2million it doesn't come cheap.

At 172.2 inches (437.4cm), the wheelbase of Inkas's G63 limo is a full 60 inches (152.4cm) longer than that of a standard G-Class. That's only the start of the impressive numbers associated with this opulent vehicle: its armour is capable of withstanding the impact of 7.62mm bullets or the blast from a grenade.

Of course, that doesn't come without compromises. The longer wheelbase is likely to have a detrimental effect on the off-road capability of the G-Wagen because of the breakover angle. But it will still be pretty capable off-road, thanks to its ground clearance and advanced four-wheel drive system, just not as good as a G-Class with a standard wheelbase.

The engine will still be the incredible factory-issue 5.5-liter V-8 twin-turbo. The huge amount of power the unit generates will certainly be well used in this model, as the extra size and weight would require a considerable powertrain upgrade in any lesser vehicle than the over-engineered G-Wagen.

For the $1.2million asking price, this enhanced G63 comes with a lot more than just a longer wheelbase and armour-plating. With a 4K Ultra HD television and Apple TV inside, the interior resembles a high-end movie theater. The reclining seats are clad in Alcantara, and the bar under the TV even has a fridge. The lights fitted into the headliner are adjustable, and are designed to simulate real sunlight for an open feel without the vulnerability of a glass sunroof. And if customers want to pay for more add-ons like an even better sound system, Inkas will be more than happy to oblige.
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Despite global outcry, the White House on Monday vowed to re-impose and fully enforce sanctions on Iran lifted under the Iran nuclear deal.

The first batch of sanctions, which will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday (0401 GMT), target Tehran's purchase of U.S. banknotes, trade in gold and other precious metals, as well as the use of graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software used in industrial processes.

They will also affect transactions related to the Iranian Rial, the issuance of sovereign debts, and the country's automotive sector.

Another round of sanctions, to be reinstalled on Nov. 5, will be on Iran's port, energy, shipping and shipbuilding sectors, its petroleum-related transactions, and business deals by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.

The Trump administration will also relist hundreds of individuals, entities, vessels, and aircraft that were previously included on sanctions lists.

Washington said it would re-impose tough sanctions on the Iranian government when it declared to leave the Iran nuke deal in May. It also laid out two wind-down periods of 90 days and 180 days for business activities in or involving Iran.

The latest sanctions were re-imposed after Monday, the final day of the 90-day wind-down period.

Accusing Tehran of having "exploited the global financial system to fund its malign activities," the White House said "the Trump Administration intends to fully enforce the sanctions reimposed against Iran, and those who fail to wind down activities with Iran risk severe consequences."

Also on Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to implement these sanctions.

In a statement, he urged all nations to "reduce or end imports of Iranian crude oil" to join in the U.S.-led "maximum economic pressure" campaign on Tehran to force it to change behaviors.

He also attacked the Iran nuke deal, saying it was "horrible, one-sided" and had failed to protect U.S. national security.

However, Trump said, "I remain open to reaching a more comprehensive deal" that addresses the full range of Iran's activities, including its ballistic missile program and its accused "support for terrorism."

"The United States welcomes the partnership of likeminded nations in these efforts," he said.

Before the White House statement, an anonymous senior administration official told the media via teleconference that Washington is "working to build a global coalition to counter Iran's malign activity."

However, "our stated policy has not been regime change, it has been to modify the Iranian regime's behavior," he said.

Reiterating the U.S. commitment to pushing all nations' import of Iranian oil to zero, the official said Washington is not "looking to grant exemptions or waivers."

"But we do and are glad to discuss requests and look at requests on a case-by-case basis," he said.

When asked to explain Trump's earlier offer to meet with the Iranian leadership at any time with no preconditions, the official said Trump was saying he was not going to give up anything in advance of the meeting, and there were no preconditions.

Earlier on Monday, the European Union (EU), Britain, France and Germany said in a joint statement they would maintain economic ties with Tehran, and "are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran."

Saying the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is working and delivering on its goal, the statement noted that the deal "is a key element of the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture, crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world."

"This is why the European Union's updated Blocking Statute enters into force on Aug. 7 to protect EU companies doing legitimate business with Iran from the impact of U.S. extra-territorial sanctions," it said. "Preserving the nuclear deal with Iran is a matter of respecting international agreements and a matter of international security."

The statute, introduced in 1996 in response to U.S. extra-territorial sanctions legislation, was amended on June 6 by adding within its scope the list of extra-territorial U.S. sanctions on Iran. It forbids EU residents and companies from complying with the listed U.S. extra-territorial sanctions legislation unless they are exceptionally authorized to do so by the European Commission.

The statute also allows EU companies to "recover damages arising from such legislation from the persons or entities causing them, and nullifies the effect in the EU of any foreign court rulings based on it."

Earlier, Turkey and India, both long-term business partners of Iran, also voiced their opposition against U.S. unilateral sanctions.

U.S.-Iranian relations have been at odds as the Trump administration left the historic Iran nuclear deal, delegitimized its government, vowed to re-impose sanctions on the nation and pressed other nations to cut down their purchase of Iranian oil to zero.

Tehran has so far shown little interest in talking with Washington over a new nuke deal. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said lately that any negotiation with the United States to solve the existing problems is an "obvious mistake."
Its been a record-breaking year of summer travel for Americans taking all modes of transportation, according to a recent AAA report. For those traveling by car, close to 40 million travelers hit the road over Independence day  up 5% from last year  and there are no signs of slowing down for the upcoming Labor Day holiday.

While the cost to rent a car can vary widely, this is certainly one part of your trip where you can save big. Below are three ways you can drive away for less.

Check out AutoSlash: Dont let the outdated look of the website turn you away from this free service that can save you an average of 30% for your car rental. You can either get a quote and book your rental through AutoSlash, or track an existing booking that youve already made on your own. It will monitor your reservation, up until the point you pick up your car, and alert you when the price drops. The site constantly scours the internet for the best coupon codes and discount codes  not to mention all the potential membership discounts you qualify for like AAA, AARP, and your credit card rewards.

Averaging about a thousand rentals a day, the site has been in operation since 2010 and makes money from small commissions through bookings and by driving online traffic to partner sites. Even if we dont make that much [money] from one transaction, we would rather have our consumers have the best experience getting the best deal, and then recommend us to their friends and family, says AutoSlash founder Jonathan Weinberg. Later this year, the site will roll out with their design refresh that will include user logins.

For most of their reservations, you can book now and pay later. Recently the site began to offer even lower rates called Slash deals that do require paying upfront. But you can always get your money back if you cancel 48 hours before the pickup time.

Book through a rental car loyalty club: Its free to sign up and youll likely get 15% to 30% off your next rental just for joining. Not only will you get the latest deals, perks and upgrades sent right to your inbox, the best VIP perk of all allows you to bypass the line at the counter and go straight to your car.

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Exclusive member benefits include complimentary upgrades (when available), the ability to book free rentals and accessories using points that you accrue, and some even have travel partners where they let you exchange airline miles for rental points.

Book your neighbors car: Skip traditional rental companies and go with a peer-to-peer car sharing service like Turo or GetAround. Their mobile apps make it easier than ever for both to book peoples cars when theyre not using it.

You can find Turo in over 5,500 cities worldwide, with 272,000 listed vehicles in over 850 makes and models. Renters will save on average 35% compared to traditional rental companies, and hosts can maximize the value of their asset by earning an average of $625 a month, says Steven Webb, Turos director of communications.

Earlier this year, Turo rolled out with their Extras program where renters can book additional accessories with their vehicles, like picnic baskets and outdoor camping equipment, child safety seats, and coolers. And coming this year, Webb says drivers can expect a new system that allows for the ability to remotely unlock and lock the vehicle.

Getaround already has a remote locking system in place. Its integrated hardware and software platform has evolved to provide a seamless user experience that lets renters instantly reserve, locate, and unlock vehicles with their app without needing to collect keys.

The site, which offers thousands of cars in 15 cities across the country, was founded by Jessica Scorpio who realized there were a billion cars in the world that sat idle for 22 hours a day. Cars can be rented by the hour, or the day, with insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance included.

If youre hesitant to go this route because of insurance worries, know that both renters and hosts are covered at Turo and Getaround with solid insurance programs and policies, as well as roadside assistance.

What are some ways youve saved on your car rental? Share them with me at Jeanie531 or in the comments below.

WATCH MORE:

3 car-buying secrets to outsmart dealerships

The best back-to-school tech deals this year

5 money-saving tips to do before your next trip abroad
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  A string of Taliban attacks in Afghanistan have killed 12 people, including four women who died in the crossfire during a shootout between insurgents and soldiers, while an errant NATO airstrike killed nine Afghan police, Afghan officials said Tuesday.

The Taliban attacked a military checkpoint in the western Farah province, killing four troops and wounding six, according to Mohammad Naser Mehri, the provincial governor's spokesman. The attack in Bala Buluk district started late Monday night and lasted for several hours. Mehri said Afghan airstrikes killed 19 Taliban fighters and wounded 30. "The Taliban were pushed back and the situation is under control now," he said.

In the eastern Logar province, the four women were killed and four children were wounded in the crossfire during a shootout near Puli Alim, the provincial capital, said Hasibullah Stanikzai, a provincial council member. He said an investigation is underway to determine which side caused the civilian casualties.

In a separate attack in Logar, the Taliban assaulted police checkpoints in the Azrah district, setting off heavy fighting and causing the police to call for help.

Nasrat Rahimi, the deputy spokesman for the Interior Ministry, said NATO carried out an airstrike in the area that mistakenly killed nine police and wounded another 14. He said NATO and the Afghan government have launched a joint investigation into the incident.

Lt. Col. Martin O'Donnell, a spokesman for NATO, confirmed that it carried out an airstrike in support of Afghan forces in Azrah. "We are aware of varying and unconfirmed reports, and are looking into the matter further," he added.

Rahimi said around 30 Taliban fighters were killed in the battle. The Taliban have not commented on any of the recent attacks.

The Taliban have stepped up attacks across the country since NATO and the U.S. formally ended their combat mission in 2014, and have seized control of several districts. An Islamic State affiliate has carried out dozens of deadly attacks in recent years, mainly targeting security forces and minority Shiites.

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On Monday night, the Taliban attacked a police checkpoint in the eastern Ghazni province, killing four police and wounding five, said Arif Noori, spokesman for the provincial governor. He said the battle in Jaghatu district lasted for three hours.

Separately, the Islamic State group claimed responsibility for an attack that killed an Afghan soldier and wounded three troops and a civilian on Sunday in the eastern city of Jalalabad, the provincial capital of Nangarhar.

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Associated Press writer Maamoun Youssef in Cairo contributed to this report.
Chinese authorities began demolishing one of Ai Weiweis Beijing studios without warning, the dissident artist said on social media this weekend.

Ai, a longtime political critic who now lives in Berlin, said the building had been in use since 2006. In a series of Instagram videos, he appeared to mourn the loss of the space, later telling NPR demolition had begun with no caution taken.

Works were damaged due to the unannounced attack on the studio, Ai told the outlet. However, compared to the memories which have been lost, compared to a society which has never established trust in the social order, a trust in the rule of law, or a trust in any kind of unity in defending the rights of its people, what has been lost at my studio is insignificant, and I dont even care.

A post shared by Ai Weiwei (@aiww) on Aug 3, 2018 at 1:36am PDT

One of the artists assistants, Ga Rang, told Agency France-Presse that Ai knew the rental contract on the building had expired last fall, but said they werent given any formal notice that demolition was about to begin.

They came and started knocking down the windows today without telling us beforehand, Ga told the outlet. Theres still so much stuff inside.

Ai is highly regarded within China and helped design the famed Birds Nest Olympic Stadium for the 2008 Olympics. But his vocal criticism of the Chinese government led to a nearly three-month-long detention in 2011 and he was forced to pay $2.4 million in back taxes and fines for what officials called tax evasion.

A post shared by Ai Weiwei (@aiww) on Aug 4, 2018 at 6:32pm PDT

His passport was confiscated for several years, and he moved to Germany in 2015 after it was returned. He has lived in self-imposed exile since.

Following the destruction, Ai told NPR that he felt the government was attempting to gentrify the neighborhood as an effort clear out migrant workers.

Right now, there is the misconception that its simply the demolition of one artists studio, which is not true, he said. They have been demolishing migrant workers homes, often in the middle of the night. They kick them out, destroy their personal belongings, and make them homeless or have them arrested for resisting eviction. This has been going on and on.

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Also on HuffPost

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
 Flash

At least 12 migrant farm laborers died and three were injured on Monday when the van they were traveling in overturned on a road near the city of Foggia in Italy's southern Puglia region, firefighters and local media reported.





"12 dead and three wounded," firefighters tweeted, along with a photo of the twisted wreckage of the van.





RAI News 24 public broadcaster showed ambulances and a fire truck at the crash site on a two-lane rural road, adding that the victims were all migrant laborers.





Day laborers are often bused to and from the fields by gangmasters, who recruit them off the streets and offer them work picking fruit and produce for a few euros an hour.





CGIL trade union tweeted a photo of the overturned van, saying: "We don't need (migrant) refoulements and forced repatriations, we need lawfulness and application of the norms. We demand justice for all the exploited and invisible laborers."





The incident follows on a deadly crash Saturday also in Foggia province, in which four African day laborers aged in their early 20s died and another four were seriously injured on their way home from work when a truck carrying tomatoes crashed into the van they were traveling on.





Such fatalities "show how the dramatic and degrading working conditions, non-existent public transportation and the mobility of workers handed over to gangmasters ... endanger the lives and security of so many laborers, who are at work in the fields in this season," Flai-CGIL union said in a statement.





In response to the deadly crashes, Italy's "big three" trade unions -- CGIL, CISL and UIL -- have called for a demonstration to be held Wednesday in Foggia to demand workplace safety and an end to the practice of gangmastering, or the practice of exploiting labor in near-slavery conditions.





In July, police in Puglia arrested a woman and two men on charges of forming a criminal gang that exploited grape and cherry pickers. The woman recruited the day laborers, also Italian nationals, who were bused to the farm, where they were paid 2.50 euros an hour to work up to 13 hours in the fields, picking grapes and cherries.





The Italian government in October 2016 passed a law criminalizing the practice of gangmastering, which is now punishable with up to six years in prison, according to the Official Gazette.
By Yereth Rosen

ANCHORAGE (Reuters) - All four Polish passengers on a sightseeing plane that crashed near North America's tallest peak in Alaska were found dead at the crash site on Monday, the National Park Service said.

Missing but presumed dead was the plane's pilot, the park service said.

The plane crashed on Saturday evening near the summit of one of the mountains in Denali National Park at a site too treacherous for rescuers to reach until Monday morning.

A helicopter made it to the site early on Monday, and a park ranger used a "short-haul" technique  descending from the hovering aircraft on a secured line  to examine the crash scene, said Park Service spokesman Peter Christian.

The ranger was there "long enough to dig through the snow down into the airplane itself," Christian said. "He found four people deceased. The fifth, the pilot, was not found but is presumed deceased." The passengers were from Poland, the park service said.

The plane, a de Havilland Beaver operated by a local air-taxi company, had broken into two pieces, Christian said.

The crash site is nearly 11,000 feet (3,353 meters) up on a ridge-like peak called Thunder Mountain, about 14 miles (22.5 km) southwest of the summit of Denali, and is extremely steep, with near-vertical rock and ice in the area, the Park Service said.

Low-lying clouds and snow had hampered the search for the plane and conditions remain challenging, the park service spokesman said.

"The temperatures are below zero (-17.7 C)," Christian said. "It's snowing and it's pretty extreme conditions."

Flight companies do brisk business each spring and summer ferrying climbers and sightseers to Denali and other glacier-draped peaks in the park.

Saturday's crash was one of the worst in park history.

There was at least one survivor after the initial impact. The Talkeetna air-taxi company got two emergency calls from the plane, Christian said. The first said the plane had crashed, and the second was incomprehensible, he said. "And we didn't hear anything after that," he said.

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The Park Service said it will try to send workers back to the crash site, and it has established flight restrictions in the area to help make that possible.

Identities of the victims were not released. The Park Service is working with the Polish consulate in Los Angeles, Christian said.

(Editing by Bill Tarrant and Sandra Maler)
Far-right conspiracy theorist Alex Jones has appealed to Donald Trump to pursue an end to censorship after the InfoWars host was banned from all but one of the Wests major content platforms.

On Monday, Apple deleted most of Mr Joness podcasts saying they contained hate speech; Facebook removed four of his pages down for repeated violations of community standards; YouTube terminated Mr Joness account after he violated a 90-day ban; and Spotify removed one of Joness podcasts for hate content.

In a free-wheeling monologue posted online, the prominent far-right personality praised the president, condemned the mainstream press, and accused China of meddling in US elections.

Mr President, America knows youre real. They know the Democrats are the anti-American globalists allied with the ChiComms, radical Islam, the unelected EU, and others, he said.

If you come out before the midterms and make the censorship the big issue of them trying to steal the election.

And if you make the fact we need an Internet Bill of Rights, and anti-trust busting on these companies, if they dont back off right now.

And if you dont come out and point out that the communist Chinese have penetrated and infiltrated and are way, way worse than the Russians .... then they will be able to steal the midterms and start the impeachment.

He said cracking down on China and speaking out against censorship was the right thing to do.

Now youve stepped in and the country is coming back from the dead, theyre desperate to stop it, he said.

Theyre trying to stop you and every American from having their free speech by defaming me, lying about what I have done, [George] Soros financing fake law suits to give it legitimacy and now de-platforming me ... cause the lawsuits are all getting thrown out.

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The video cannot be viewed on YouTube or Facebook, but it is still available via Media Matters, a non-profit organisation with the stated aim of comprehensively monitoring, analysing, and correcting conservative misinformation in the US media.

Following the removal of Mr Joness Facebook pages, a spokesperson for the company said: More content from the same pages has been reported to us  upon review, we have taken it down for glorifying violence, which violates our graphic violence policy, and using dehumanising language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies.

They added that despite pressure to remove Mr Joness content for spreading conspiracy theories about events including the 9/11 terror attacks and Sandy Hook school shooting, none of the violations that spurred todays removals were related to this.

Mr Jones is currently being sued by the parents of children murdered in the Sandy Hook shooting for claiming the attack was a hoax.

Related Video: Alex Jones Banned by Facebook, YouTube and Apple

Watch news, TV and more on Yahoo View.
MINEOLA, N.Y. (AP)  A man identified by prosecutors as the East Coast leader of the MS-13 gang says he's suffering from his Long Island jail lockdown.

Newsday reports that Miguel Angel Corea Diaz recently asked a judge for an improvement in jail conditions.

His lawyer, Scott Gross, says Corea Diaz has been locked in a cell for about 23 hours a day and only has limited phone access.

Corea Diaz says he has been unable to talk to his children. He also said he had received death threats from outside the jail.

The judge said she would look into his request. Nassau County declined to comment.

An indictment alleges Corea Diaz ordered beatings and killings while directing MS-13 drug operations in New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Texas and elsewhere. He has pleaded not guilty.

MS-13, or La Mara Salvatrucha, recruits young teenagers from El Salvador and Honduras  though many gang members were born in the U.S.

___

Information from: Newsday, http://www.newsday.com
The Hague (AFP) - Amsterdam is taking new measures to ease tourist pressure on its popular red-light district including compulsory clean-up breaks in streets and monitoring of crowds, the council said Tuesday.

The announcement comes days after the city's ombudsman warned its bustling centre was turning into a "lawless jungle" at night with police powerless to intervene against crime and violence.

"Apart from existing measures, Amsterdam will now take extra action to reduce pressure on the city centre and to improve access to the 'Wallen'," the city council said in a statement.

The 'Wallen' (Dutch for 'canal banks'), is the inner city's seedy red light district and includes its infamous red-framed windows where prostitutes ply their trade.

"A lot of rubbish gets thrown in the streets. Therefore 'mop-up pauses' are being introduced for certain streets," the city said.

"Parts of the Wallen will then be closed off to the public in order to properly rid streets," of waste and vomit, it said.

Amsterdam also monitors visitor numbers, coded from green to orange to red, depending on numbers.

"If a code red is called, so-called 'hosts' will be deployed and if necessary, streets will be closed off," the city said.

"Hosts" are council workers specially employed to direct visitors to less busy areas and to address bad behaviour if necessary.

Law enforcers are also now being issued with a mobile pin machine which will enable them to issue spot fines to tourists and get immediate payment.

"Access to the city's famous canals are also being closely monitored," the city said.

Some 18 million tourists flock to Amsterdam every year -- more than the entire population of the Netherlands.

Over the past year, the city has sought to take major steps to push back against unruly visitors instituting stiff fines and penalties for breaking public disturbance laws.

But enticed by cheap travel, groups mostly of young men -- mainly from elsewhere in the Netherlands or Britain -- frequently roam the inner city's canal-lined streets at weekends, on pub crawls or to celebrate stag parties drawn by easy access to drugs and the notorious Wallen district.

Things came to a head when Amsterdam's official ombudsman Arre Zuurmond warned late last month that the capital's "city centre becomes an urban jungle at night."
Comets and meteors have fascinated the human race since they were first spotted in the night sky. But without science and space exploration to aid understanding of what these chunks of rock and ice are, ancient cultures often turned to myth and legend to explain them.

The Greeks and Romans believed that the appearance of comets, meteors and meteor showers were portentous. They were signs that something good or bad had happened or was about to happen. The arrival of a comet could herald the birth of a great figure, and some people have even argued that the star in the sky which the Persian Magi followed to Bethlehem to see the newborn Jesus was actually a comet.

In the spring of 44BC, a comet that appeared was interpreted as a sign of the deification of Julius Caesar, following his murder. Caesars adopted son Octavian (soon to be the Emperor Augustus) made much of the comet, which burned in the sky during the funerary games held for Caesar. This portentous event was frequently celebrated in the ancient sources. In his epic poem, the Aeneid, Virgil describes how a star appeared in the daytime, and Augustus persuaded people to believe it was Caesar.

Augustus celebrated the comet and the deification of his father on coins (it did help to be the son of a god when trying to rule the Roman Empire), and many examples survive today.

Meteor showers

The Roman historian Cassius Dio referred to comet stars occurring in August 30BC. These are mentioned as among the portents witnessed after the death of the Egyptian queen Cleopatra. Experts are not entirely sure what it means when Dio uses the plural term comet stars, but some have connected this recorded event to the annual Perseid meteor shower.

Though it retains an ancient Greek name, we now know that the arrival of the Perseid meteor shower every August is actually the Earths orbit passing through debris from the Swift-Tuttle comet.

The meteor shower is named for the Perseidai (), who were the sons of the ancient Greek hero Perseus. Perseus was a legendary figure with a fine family pedigree  he was the mythical son of Zeus and Argive princess Danae (she of the golden rain). Perseus earned himself a constellation after a number of epic adventures across the Mediterranean and Near East that included the frequently illustrated murder of the Gorgon sister, Medusa.

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Another of Perseuss celebrated acts was the rescue of the princess Andromeda. Abandoned by her parents to placate a sea monster, the princess was found by Perseus on a rock by the ocean. He married her and they went on to have seven sons and two daughters. Sky watchers believed that the constellation Perseus, located just beside Andromeda in the night sky, was the origin of the shooting stars they could see every summer, and so the name Perseid stuck.

Tears and other traditions

In Christian tradition the Perseid meteor shower has long been connected to the martyrdom of St Lawrence. Laurentius was a deacon in the early church at Rome, martyred in the year 258AD, during the persecutions of the Emperor Valerian. The martyrdom supposedly took place on August 10, when the meteor shower was at its height, and so the shooting stars are equated to the saints tears.

Detailed records of astronomical events and sky watching can be found in historical texts from the Far East too. Ancient and medieval records from China, Korea and Japan have all been found to contain detailed accounts of meteor showers. Sometimes these different sources can be correlated, which has allowed astronomers to track, for example, the impact of Halleys comet on ancient societies both east and west. These sources have also been used to find the first recorded observation of the Perseid meteor shower as a specific event, in Han Chinese records of 36AD.

Though the myths and legends may make one think that ancient civilisations had little scientific understanding of what meteors, comets and asteroids could be, this couldnt be farther from the truth. The early astronomers of the Near East, those who created the Babylonian and Egyptian calendars, and astronomical data were  by far  the most advanced in antiquity. And a recent study of ancient cuneiform texts has proven that the Babylonian ability to track comets, planetary movements and sky events as far back as the first millennium BC involved a much more complex geometry than had been previously believed.

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.

The Conversation

Eve MacDonald does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
You are here: World

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The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on Tuesday repatriated a South Korean citizen through the inter-Korean border village of Panmunjom.

The 34-year-old South Korean man, identified only by his surname Suh, was returned from the DPRK to South Korea via the border village at 11 a.m. local time (0200 GMT), Seoul's unification ministry said in a statement.

The DPRK's Red Cross informed South Korea Monday of its plan to repatriate Suh, who was caught on July 22 after illegally entering the DPRK. The South Korean side replied Monday afternoon to accept the repatriation.

The unification ministry said South Korea positively assessed the DPRK's return of a South Korean citizen from the humanitarian perspective.

Suh was reportedly under investigation over how and why he had illegally entered the DPRK.

The repatriation came amid the improving inter-Korean relations after South Korean President Moon Jae-in and top DPRK leader Kim Jong Un held their first summit meeting in Panmunjom on April 27.

Moon and Kim confirmed their joint goal of achieving a nuclear-free Korean Peninsula via complete denuclearization, agreeing to stop all hostile acts to defuse military tensions on the peninsula.
London (AFP) - Songbirds altered their courtship behaviour following exposure to antidepressants increasingly found in the natural environment, according to scientists in Britain who conducted a three-year study.

Male starlings sang less and were more aggressive towards females who had been given small doses of the antidepressant fluoxetine, commonly known as Prozac, researchers at the University of York found.

They believe the study -- to be published in the journal Chemosphere -- shows such changes in behaviour could put songbirds at risk in the wild.

"Here is the first evidence that low concentrations of an antidepressant can disrupt the courtship of songbirds," said Kathryn Arnold, from the university's environment department.

"This is important because animals that are slow to find a mate often won't get to breed.

"With many wildlife populations in decline, we have to ask whether more could be done to remove chemical contaminants like pharmaceuticals from our sewage."

River systems around the world are coursing with over-the-counter and prescription drugs waste which harms the environment, according to the European Geosciences Union conference in Vienna in April.

If trends persist, the amount of pharmaceutical effluence leaching into waterways could increase by two-thirds before 2050, it was reported.

In Britain, there were 64.7 million antidepressant items prescribed in 2016, the York study noted.

Like other human pharmaceuticals, they enter the environment via sewage and contaminate birds foraging on invertebrates at wastewater treatment plants.

With the implications poorly understood, the York scientists tested the impact on starlings, a species commonly found feeding at such sites.

The most visible results emerged after they paired males for two days with a female who had been dosed with prozac, with changes in typical behaviour.

"Singing is a key part of courtship for birds, used by males to court favoured females and used by females to choose the highest quality male to father their chicks," said Sophia Whitlock, researcher on the project.

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"Males sang more than twice as often and as long to untreated females compared to females that had been receiving low doses of Prozac."

Meanwhile, instead of courting them, males were more likely to chase, peck or claw the female starlings on Prozac.

"Our findings suggest that exposure to an antidepressant reduced female attractiveness," the study's authors wrote.

They said it added to "growing evidence that environmental concentrations of pharmaceuticals can alter important traits related to individual fitness and population dynamics."
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump is claiming that California's water policy is shortchanging firefighters of water to battle the state's raging wildfires. That's not so, according to wildfire and water experts.

A look at his tweets and the facts behind them:

TRUMP: "California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!"  tweet Sunday.

THE FACTS: That's not what state experts say.

"We have plenty of water" for battling the massive blazes burning in hills north of San Francisco, said Scott McLean, a spokesman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The current spate of wildfires happens to be within range of large Northern California lakes and the state's biggest river, McLean said.

Nor is having enough water a problem in battling California wildfires in general. Firefighting aircraft can dip in and out of cattle ponds or other small bodies of water to scoop up water for dropping and spraying on flames. When fires burn in an area that happens to be without ponds, lakes or rivers, state officials typically call in more planes to ferry in water, McLean said.

California's battles over divvying up water in the arid state are unending, but a battle between firefighters and the Pacific Ocean hasn't been one of them, according to Jay Lund, a civil and environmental engineering professor at the University of California, Davis, and a longtime analyst of the state's water wars.

Trump's claim "is so physically impossible, you don't even really want to respond," Lund said.

For one thing, the wildfires are in the hills, far from the Pacific Ocean and from the man-made storage and distribution system that carries water from California's wetter north to the drier, more populated south.

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The state's recently ended five-year drought killed millions of trees, leaving them as brittle fuel for wildfires. As Trump alluded to in his tweet, experts have urged state and federal forestry officials to move quickly in clearing swathes of dead forests because of their added fire danger. The dry, hot weather that climate change brings adds to the dried tinder and risk.

"It might have something to do with forest management and the drought. But it has nothing to do with water policy," Lund said.

___

TRUMP: "Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water - Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals."  tweet Monday.

THE FACTS: Trump is raising an old dispute in California, the country's top farm state: the competition for water between agricultural and environmental groups, fishermen and others who want more water for wildlife and habitat. But the dispute has little to do with firefighting.

Republican lawmakers in California's agriculture-rich Central Valley complain the state and federal governments allow too much of the state's rainfall and snow melt to flow naturally through rivers and into the Pacific Ocean, instead of being diverted for irrigation.

___

Find AP Fact Checks at http://apne.ws/2kbx8bd

Follow @APFactCheck on Twitter: https://twitter.com/APFactCheck

EDITOR'S NOTE _ A look at the veracity of claims by political figures
(FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.)  Florida school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz told a detective that a demon in his head  the evil side  told him to burn, kill and destroy, and that he thought about going to a park to kill people about a week before 17 people were gunned down at the school, according to a transcript of his interrogation released Monday.

During the more than 11 hours of questioning by Broward sheriffs Detective John Curcio, Cruz usually answered in short sentences or nodded yes or no, speaking so softly that the detective repeatedly told him to speak up. Twice when Curcio left the room, Cruz, 19, cursed at himself and said that he wanted to die, he deserved to die.

Youre nothin, Cruz told himself, followed by cursing.

The interrogation will be pored over by prosecutors and defense attorneys if Cruz attempts an insanity defense or for mitigating factors if he is convicted and faces the death penalty. Cruzs attorneys have said he would plead guilty in exchange for a sentence of life without parole.

Prosecutors released the 216-page, heavily redacted transcript of Cruzs post-shooting statement after a judge ruled last month that nonconfession portions should be made public. The interrogation began about four hours after the Feb. 14 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland and about 2 hours after Cruz was captured as he walked down a nearby street.

The Associated Press and other media had sought the statements release under Floridas broad public records laws. Cruzs attorneys had wanted it suppressed, saying its disclosure could hinder his right to a fair trial.

Cruzs statements about the shooting are blacked out, but the transcript is otherwise wide-ranging, dealing with the death of Cruzs parents, his penchant for killing animals, his former girlfriend, his brother, guns, suicide attempts and, especially, the voice. He told Curcio the voice appeared after his father died about 15 years ago but got worse after his mother died of pneumonia in November.

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Cruz described the voice as a male, about his age, and said the only person he ever told about it was his brother.

Curcio asked what the voice told him.

Burn. Kill. Destroy, Cruz responded.

Burn, kill, destroy what? the detective asked.

Anything, Cruz responded.

He told Curcio that he had to fight the voice from taking over, that it was always bad. Curcio questioned that, asking how it could always be bad if Cruz had held down a job at a discount store for two years.

The voice is in here, he said, apparently pointing to his head. And then its me. Its just regular me trying to be a good person. Curcio said everyone has a good and bad side.

Do they really? Cruz said.

He said the voice tried to get him to shoot people at a park a week earlier. Or maybe it was three. Cruz couldnt remember exactly, but he didnt want to do it. Curcio asked why he didnt.

I  I dont know, he said.

Cruz told Curcio he wanted to join the Army to be a Ranger but he failed the written exam because I was stupid.

Cruz said he bought the AR-15 allegedly used in the shooting a year before because it was cool looking and to feel safe. He said he bought other guns but fired them only twice, both times into the cement floor of his mothers garage.

It didnt bounce all over hell and creation? Curcio asked. No, Cruz replied, saying the bullets embedded in the concrete.

Cruz said he tried to kill himself with an over-the-counter pain reliever after his mom died and years earlier had tried to drink himself to death because he was lonely.

You dont have a lot of friends? Curcio asked.

No. Cruz said he goes fishing with the demon.

Curcio told Cruz he doesnt believe the voice exists, but Cruz insisted it was there and said he wanted to see a psychiatrist.

At the end of the interrogation, the detective let Cruzs 18-year-old brother into the room.

You  your  people think youre a monster now, Zachary Cruz told him.

A monster? Cruz responded.

Youre not acting like yourself. Like, why? Like, weve  this is not who you are. Like, come on. Why did you do this? This is  dont even laugh at me, Zachary Cruz said.

Im sorry, dude, Nikolas Cruz replied.
By Rich McKay (Reuters) - Apple Inc, Alphabet Inc's YouTube, Facebook Inc and Spotify all took down podcasts and channels from U.S. conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, saying on Monday that the Infowars author had broken community standards. The sweeping moves are the broadest actions yet by internet companies that previously have suspended or removed some of the conspiracy-driven content produced by Infowars. Since founding Infowars in 1999, Jones has built a vast audience. Among the theories he has promoted is that the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington were staged by the government. Facebook said it removed Alex Jones pages "for glorifying violence, which violates our graphic violence policy, and using dehumanizing language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies." The Infowars app remained available on the app stores hosted by Apple and Alphabet's Google Play, however, while Twitter Inc said that Infowars accounts were not currently in violation of its rules. Alphabet and Apple did not immediately respond to questions about why the app remained available on their platforms. Infowars editor-at-large Paul Joseph Watson said in a tweet https://twitter.com/PrisonPlanet/status/1026433061469257733 that the broad take-downs amounted to censorship and were intended to help Democrats in congressional elections due in November. "Infowars is widely credited with having played a key role in electing Donald Trump. By banning Infowars, big tech is engaging in election meddling just three months before crucial mid-terms," Watson wrote on the Infowars website. Neither Jones nor a representative for Infowars was available for additional comment. None of the companies that took down the content commented on whether they had coordinated their actions. The Alex Jones Channel on YouTube on Monday displayed a banner saying the account had been terminated for violating community guidelines, and a spokesperson added by email that repeated violation of policies such as those prohibiting hate speech and harassment led to termination of accounts. Apple deleted most Infowars podcasts and a spokeswoman said in a statement that the company "does not tolerate hate speech" and publishes guidelines that developers and publishers must follow. "Podcasts that violate these guidelines are removed from our directory making them no longer searchable or available for download or streaming," Apple said in a statement. "We believe in representing a wide range of views, so long as people are respectful to those with differing opinions." Only one program provided by Infowars, "RealNews with David Knight," remained on Apple's podcasts platforms on Monday. BuzzFeed earlier reported that Apple had removed the library for five of Jones's six Infowars podcasts, including the shows "War Room" and the daily "The Alex Jones Show." Twitter said in an email that content posted to other websites often was not put on Twitter and that tweets from Infowars typically were replied to by people rebutting and challenging it. If Infowars violates Twitter rules in the future, it will take action, it added. Music and podcast company Spotify said on Monday that it had now removed all of Jones's Infowars programs from its platform, after last week removing some programs. A representative said that Spotify took seriously reports of hate content. "Due to repeated violations of Spotify's prohibited content policies, The Alex Jones Show has lost access to the Spotify platform," the representative said. In late July, Facebook had suspended Jones's personal profile for 30 days for what the company said was bullying and hate speech. Jones has also promoted a theory that the 2012 Sandy Hook school massacre was faked by left-wing forces to promote gun control. The shooting left 26 children and adults dead at a Connecticut elementary school. He is being sued in Texas by two Sandy Hook parents, seeking at least $1 million, claiming that they have been the subject of harassment driven by his programs. (Reporting by Rich McKay in Atlanta; Additional reporting by Sonam Rai, Ishita Chigilli Palli and Arjun Panchadar in Bengaluru and Peter Henderson, Paresh Dave and Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Nick Zieminski and Rosalba O'Brien)
Legal abortion or illicit abortion: this is what were discussing in Argentina these days. The country is one step away from approving a law that would cease to make abortion illicit and illegal. (The Senate votes on Wednesday.)

I have a hard time explaining it to friends and colleagues from other parts of the world. The image they have of Argentina does not match that of a country refusing to grant women this right. A pioneer in human rights, Argentina boasts one of the highest ranked universities in the world, has a thriving and diverse cultural life, and introduced same-sex marriage more than eight years ago. And my country brags a growing feminist movement, taking to the streets and making its voice heard loud and clear.

How can there be no abortion in Argentina, they ask in awe. It is then that I correct them: its not that there is no abortion. In fact, it happens all across the country, but abortion is illegal, clandestine, outside the health care system. Sometimes it is bloody. Sometimes it is deadly.

It is estimated that 500,000 abortions are performed in Argentina every year. This is a rough figure. Being an illegal practice, official records are unavailable. This reality has been hidden for decades, yet now there is no meeting, birthday celebration, commute or waiting line where abortion is not mentioned. Shyly and with embarrassment at first, then openly and holding our heads up high, we start to utter what we used to keep quietand men have to listen.

In this way, we have learnt that the degree of separation to reach a woman who had undergone abortion is minimal. There are friends, colleagues, daughters, sisters and neighbors around us who experienced an unintended pregnancy and decided to abort illegally.

Depending on socio-economic level, abortion carries diverse risks. It might have been performed in a private health care institution, in a dodgy medical office, in the house of the pregnant woman. The best-case scenario would be using the drug misoprostol. If not, a metal coat hanger, a knitting needle or a sprig of parsley when no other alternative is at hand.

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Faced with this reality, what are we waiting for? If we keep prohibiting abortion, it still wont stop Argentine women from having them. Its time we legalize and provide a public health framework for a practice that existed, exists and will continue to exist.

Argentinas criminal code imposes sentences of one to four years for the woman who chooses to undergo an abortion, unless her life is at risk, the pregnancy resulted from a rape, or the fetus is not viable outside the uterus. There are no other legal conditions for an abortion.

However, if one starts asking, a significant majority of Argentinians will say that they do not think it logical to issue a prison sentence to a woman who terminated a pregnancy, no matter her reasons.

If society has already decriminalized this action, we should reflect this in the law. If the punishment for abortion is not an effective deterrent against the practice, with hundreds of thousands of abortions performed every year, why do we support its inclusion in the criminal code?

Why do some of the self-proclaimed pro-lifers insult or physically attack girls wearing a green neckerchief, the symbol of those demanding legal abortion? Why do they threaten legislators and their families who state their support for decriminalizing abortion? What moves them shout murderers at those in favor of changing the law, or write on walls, Abortionists, well get even with you?

So much intensity and aggression in the debate suggests there is something else underlying the discussion. There are those who say that the turning point of the debate is whether the law is constitutional or not. For others, it is whether the embryo is a child from conception or not. There are those who ask whether the health care system is equipped to deal with legal abortions and how much it will cost the state.

These are just excuses. If we look deeper, we will discover that at the heart of the issue is the sexuality of women and their right to choose not to become a mother. In short, their desire.

Womens desire produces terror. If it were not so, how can it be understood that an embryo resulting from a rape can be discarded but not the embryo from a consensual relationship? How is it understood that in-vitro embryos may be discarded? What is the difference between them and why are some protected by the constitution but not others? Why are some considered babies but not others? The embryos are identical. The only thing distinguishing them is if they resulted, or not, from the sexual desire of a woman.

The Church, as well as other backward yet very powerful interests in my country, are appalled at the desire of women. Thats why they condemn, punish and criminalize it. In their eyes, womenwithout exceptionare born to be mothers. They have established that as our aim, although it is not our will.

To them, desire has to be paid. If you had an enjoyable time during sexual intercourse, the contraception failed and an unintended pregnancy results from it, then the woman has to own it. They say, she is an adult, she should have kept her knees together.

These are some of the words we have heard uttered in the 21st century by persons in Congress, journalists, communicators and other personalities. Some Catholic Church bishops have called us the crazy women in green neckerchiefs, murderers, and we have been compared with Cain, Herod and Pilate. Pope Francis even said that abortion is the white glove equivalent of Nazi eugenics programs.

In spite of the enormous pressure exerted by different power groups, Argentinas Senate could vote on Wednesday to legalize abortion. It would solve a public health issue, and would also take into account the desire of women and their right to take control of their lives. We should not be afraid. Rather, the opposite.
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP)  At least one of the businessmen accused in an investigation of widespread corruption in Argentina has admitted that he paid government officials money for "electoral campaigns" in exchange for the awarding of public works contracts.

The case is based on an investigation by the Argentine newspaper La Nacion into alleged corruption over more than a decade during the governments of former President Cristina Fernandez and her late husband and predecessor, Nestor Kirchner.

Some have compared it to "Operation Car Wash," the widespread corruption probe that has shaken Brazil's elite by uncovering billions of dollars in bribes and kickbacks and that has resulted in the jailing of many of its most powerful business leaders and former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Last week, authorities in Argentina carried out raids and arrested at least a dozen businessmen and former government officials, while a local judge called on Fernandez to testify Aug. 13.

Fernandez is currently a senator, a post that grants her immunity from prosecution. She has not spoken publicly since the scandal broke out.

In plea-bargain testimony, Juan Carlos de Goycoechea, a former head of the Argentina branch of Spanish construction company Isolux Corsan, said he was forced to pay officials in Fernandez's 2007-2015 administration in order to get government contracts. But he said he did not consider them to be bribes. Goycoechea's lawyer said Monday that the payments were for political campaigns.

The investigation by La Nacion said the driver of one of the accused kept eight notebooks in which he wrote down detailed information on the alleged hauling of $160 million in bags of cash during 2005-2015. Fernandez's private address and the presidential residence are allegedly mentioned.

Some judicial experts say there is a lack of real evidence in the case since the investigation is solely based on photocopies of notebooks. But the investigating prosecutor has said the information in the notebooks has been corroborated with other evidence.

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Fernandez faces several other court actions in separate cases involving alleged money laundering, possible illegal enrichment and fraud. She has denied wrongdoing in those cases.

Argentine media also reported Monday that one of President Mauricio Macri's cousins, Angelo Calcaterra, is among those being investigated and that he has provided plea-bargain testimony.

Fernandez and Kirchner were Argentina's most dominant political leaders in recent decades and are often credited with lifting the country out of its worst economic crisis in 2001. Detractors, however, say their social policies contributed to one of the world's highest inflation rates and criticize the couple's personal enrichment and their ties to scandals.

Fernandez has always dismissed the accusations as lies by the press or defamations by enemies aimed at discrediting the achievements of their collective 12 years in power.
For years, Latin Americas tough abortion laws looked unlikely to change. Not only does the anti-abortion Catholic Church continue to exert a profound influence on public life, most major political parties also maintain a hard line on the issue. And so for more than 97% of the 345 million women living in the region, abortion is almost always illegal, as well as unsafe. Its a situation that Amnesty Internationals secretary general has described as an extreme form of violence against women, saying the continued criminalization of abortion had compromised Latin Americas progress on human rights.

But in 2018, just as abortion rights in the U.S. look more uncertain than they have in decades, Latin America has arrived at the brink of massively expanding them. Argentinas Senate will vote Wednesday on a bill to allow abortion up to 14 weeks of pregnancy, following narrow approval by the lower house of Congress in June. On Friday and Monday in neighboring Brazil, the Supreme Court held a hearing on decriminalizing abortion up to 12 weeks, inviting more than 60 experts and advocates on both sides of the debate to make their case. Brazil and Argentina are the first and fourth most populous countries in the region, respectively. That means the abortion rights of two fifths of Latin American womenor 126 million peopleare up for debate this week.

The Churchs Influence

Of the 23 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, only Communist Cuba, one area of Mexico and tiny, progressive Uruguay allow elective abortions up to 10, 12 and 12 weeks respectively. Six countriesNicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Surinamehave a total ban. Women in the rest of the region, including in Argentina and Brazil, are generally allowed to terminate pregnancies only if they have been raped, if there is a risk to their life or health or in cases of fatal fetal abnormality. Even in these circumstances, human rights experts say women can still struggle to obtain an abortion because of barriers such as a need for judicial authorization or difficulty in finding a doctor who will perform an abortion.

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While Latin America is following a global trend toward liberalizationwith 27 of the 28 countries who have modified their abortion laws since 2000 doing so to expand abortion rightsabortion remains a polarizing issue across the region.

There are two main reasons for this taboo, says Catalina Martinez, Latin America and the Caribbean Director at the Centre for Reproductive Rights. First, the conservative influence of the Catholic Church itself, and second, the way that influence has extended and solidified in political parties.

Though it remains strong, the Catholic Churchs influence in the region is waning slightly. A regional polling group found in 2018 that the proportion of Latin Americans identifying as Catholics has fallen from 80 percent in 1995 to 59 percent now. (There is significant variation from country to country: as low as 37% in Honduras and as high as 80% in Mexico.) Abortion rights activists in the region took heart from Irelands vote in May to remove one of Europes last abortion bans, despite 78% of Irish people identifying as Catholic.

People demonstrate against the legalization of abortion outside the National Congress in Buenos Aires on August 01, 2018.

But in Argentina, where Pope Francis was born and is widely revered, the Catholic Churchs influence on politics is stronger than in Ireland. It has mounted a fierce campaign against the bill to legalize abortion, urging senators not to approve the law, and several have cited religious opposition when announcing they will reject the bill on Wednesday. Buenos Aires auxiliary bishop Oscar Ojea told local media it would be the first law in democratic times to allow the elimination of one human being by another.

In June, Pope Francis said that abortion in cases of congenital abnormality was the same as what the Nazis did to purify the race [with eugenics programs] but with white gloves.

Not all those campaigning to keep abortion illegal view it as a religious issue. Despite being a Catholic himself, Matias Ferrari, an office worker from the suburbs of Buenos Aires who campaigns with anti-abortion group Yes to Life says his stance doesnt have to do with religion necessarily. Science shows life begins at conception. Thats it. And we should never terminate a life.

Like many in Argentinas debate, Ferrari cites adoption as an alternative to abortion. Termination just shouldnt be an option, he says. There are lots of other options that you can take before pregnancy and there are options you can take after.

The Real Status Quo

Abortion rights campaigners, though, say Argentinas vote is not a choice between abortion and adoption, but between safe and unsafe abortion. The consequence of voting against the law would be that women in Argentina would are left with the status quo and the status quo is not that women dont have abortions, says Tamara Taraciuk, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch in Buenos Aires. Its that they have them clandestinely, and these end up being unsafe abortions. So theyre putting their life and health at risk.

In Argentina, official figures from the Ministry of Health say 500,000 clandestine or illegal abortions are performed each year in a country of 44 million people. Even where the abortion itself is carried out successfully, a lack of post-abortion care and a fear of asking for help means complications can be more serious. Official figures suggest 50,000 women are hospitalized each year after botched abortions. Taraciuk says clandestine abortion is the leading cause of maternal death.

Across Latin America, three quarters of the 6.5 million abortions that take place are performed in clandestine, unsafe conditionsmaking it the second most dangerous region in the world to terminate a pregnancy, after Africa.

A common refrain for activists is, Rich women have abortions, poor women die. Wealthy women can afford to terminate their pregnancies in private clinics with safe facilities and to pay for after care. The women that face greater barriers are poor women, who cant pay for an abortion and cant get it in public health centers, Taraciuk says. Theyll have to go to less safe places, or take pills, at home alone, without any support.

Activists demonstrate in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on July 19, 2018 in favor of abortion legalization.

In Brazil, Supreme Court Justice Rosa Weber called the hearing on abortion after Ingriane Barbosa Carvalho, a 31 year-old black woman, died in May from a botched clandestine abortion. She had quietly suffered an internal haemorrhage while telling her family the pain was a stomach ache, according to her brother. In 2016, the last year Brazilian health ministry records were available, 203 women died in similar circumstances. After Carvalhos death, a womens rights group and a leftist political party petitioned the Supreme Court to declare that criminalization violates rights to dignity and health care enshrined in Brazils 1988 Constitution.

Reports compiled by the media show around 330 women in Brazil were investigated for having an abortion last year, facing up to 3 years in prison. While decriminalization, which judges are now deliberating, would not immediately lead to Brazilian women having free access to legal abortion, campaigners say it would be a crucial first step and would prevent women suffering in silence when complications arise after illegal abortions.

In Uruguay, Martinez says, the public health argument was key to senators decision to legalize abortion in 2012. Campaigners there were very smart about it because they used a language of public health, focusing on womens health and how many were dying: what were the consequences of continuing to criminalize abortion, she says.

Ni Una Menos

Many credit Argentinas unprecedented step towards legalizing abortion to the reinvigoration of womens rights movements since 2015, when 200,000 people took to the streets of Buenos Aires to protest gender-based violence and femicide, which kills one woman in the country every 30 hours. Protesters used the slogan, Ni Una Menos, which translates as Not One Less or Not One more Death and has since been used to denounce the death of women through botched abortions.

Alongside that momentum, says feminist activist and journalist Laura Salome Canteros, has been a period of political upheaval because of Argentinas economic turmoil. Were in the middle of a lot of instability and I think thats energized everyoneto know that were fighting for something real and were making progress, against so much adversity, she says. In the lower house we achieved a trans-party alliance of support for the bill, she adds, pointing out that political parties chose not to tell their members how to vote, a rarity in a political scene normally firmly divided along partisan lines.

A woman shows a sign that reads 'I vote in favour of legal abortion' during a protest as part of the 'Not One Less' (Ni Una Menos) movement demanding legal abortion on June 04, 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The outcome of the vote is uncertain, but Martinez says the pro-legalization side need a surprise to win, with 31 senators currently pledging to vote in favour, 37 against, 2 undecided and 1 abstention and 1 absentee.

Activists are adamant that, even if the Senate rejects the bill, Argentina has entered a new era on abortion rights. If it passes, that would be historic, says Martinez.But if it doesnt, the progress that people have made is already a win. It is something that will remain in the conversation and theyll probably try again in a few years, with a different Congress.

A Ripple Effect?

Women who want to legalize abortion in other Latin American countries have greeted Argentinas green wavenamed for the green flags and handkerchiefs adopted by activistswith solidarity. Ive spoken to activists in Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, who are all talking about using Argentina to get this into their national conversations, Martinez says. She adds that Argentinas decision will be significant because it has long been a leader in the region on human rights issues such as freedom of speech and same sex marriage, which it legalized in 2010.

Giovanna Gomez, an 18-year-old student who campaigns to expand abortion rights in Vera Cruz, Mexico, says shes seen an intensification of pro-choice group activities in Mexico recently. The green wave spreading from Argentina is inspiring us to defend our rights too, she says. Thats important, Gomez says, because most people here dont speak about topics to do with sex and reproductive health. Its still considered a taboo that you cant touch.

In neighboring Chile, where abortion in cases of rape, incest and danger to the health of the mother was only legalized in 2017, Argentinas campaign has divided the population. On July 27, a reproductive rights rally attended by tens of thousands of people in Santiago ended in the nonfatal stabbing of three women by far-right group. On August 1, a senator presented a bill to legalize abortion up to 14 weeks, but President Sebastian Pinera pledged to oppose any pro-leglization bill. Both sides have already taken up the blue and green colours used in Argentinas abortion debate.

There are very heated debates taking place throughout the regionin the media, in the courts, on the streets, says Taraciuk. And thats healthy, because democratic debate has to accompany change. But weve no doubt as to what the outcome should be. Now, weve got an opportunity to put things right for millions of Latin American women.
By Hugh Bronstein BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Prospects faded over the weekend for a bill that would legalize abortion in Argentina, when an opposition senator said she had changed her mind and would vote against the measure when it is brought to the floor on Wednesday. The proposal, which would expand abortion rights beyond current laws that allow the procedure only in cases of rape or when the mother's health is at risk, passed the lower house last month by 129 votes to 125. Since then religious activists, particularly in rural parts of the country, have pushed back against the measure, which is backed by feminists and rights groups galvanized in recent years by efforts to stop violence against women. The bill would make Argentina the third country in Latin American to broadly legalize abortion, after Uruguay and Cuba. The about-face by Senator Silvina Garcia Larraburu brought to 37 the number of expected no votes, amounting to a majority in Argentina's 72-member Senate. An ally of former President Cristina Kirchner, Garcia Larraburu accused President Mauricio Macri of using the abortion debate as a distraction from the country's troubled economy, a charge Macri's government denies. Kirchner may run for president next year, when Macri is expected to seek re-election. Garcia Larraburu told local media her change of mind "also has to do with my most intimate convictions." The bill, which would allow abortion through the first 14 weeks of pregnancy, may be amended by the Senate and sent back to the lower house. The measure is supported by advocates who want an end to the unregulated abortions that, according to government data, are the country's leading cause of maternal mortality. The proposal emphasizes the danger that poor women face in seeking the procedure under secret, illegal conditions. When he opened the 2018 session of congress in March, Macri said that although he was against abortion, the time had come to debate the issue and that he would sign the bill if it were approved by Congress. Members of the leftist opposition, as well as Macri's conservative coalition, are divided on the issue. Vice President Gabriela Michetti has come out against the bill, which languished for years in Congress before a strong women's rights lobby was forged during the national outcry over the 2015 murder of a 14-year-old girl. The murder case galvanized the women's rights movement and shored up support for the abortion bill. Activists in favor of decriminalizing abortion have marched in front of Congress wearing costumes from "The Handmaid's Tale," a book and television series, about the oppression of women. Other advocates of decriminalization use green bandannas to identify themselves in massive marches throughout the country. Green is the color adopted by Argentina's women's rights movement. The scarves are emblazoned with white lettering: "Sex education to decide. Contraceptives to avoid abortion. Legal abortion to avoid death." Opponents of the bill wear blue head scarves as their emblem; blue being the color of the Argentine flag and the country's official religion, Catholicism. On Saturday, tens of thousands of opponents of the bill demonstrated around Buenos Aires' mid-town obelisk, shutting down traffic on the city's main thoroughfare Avenida 9 de Julio. "There are options other than abortion. Plenty of people want to adopt. Why take an innocent life?" Celia Klappenback, a 75-year-old retiree, told Reuters at Saturday's rally. The fact that Pope Francis comes from Argentina makes the measure a symbol of the challenge the Catholic Church faces in influencing public policy in the region and around the world. Since 2000, 28 countries have changed their abortion laws. All but Nicaragua expanded legal provisions for the operation, according to New York-based Human Rights Watch, which supports the bill, calling it "a public health and human rights imperative." (Reporting by Hugh Bronstein; Editing by Alistair Bell and Daniel Wallis)
By Herbert Lash and Laila Kearney

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Equity markets around the world neared a six-month high on Tuesday, buoyed by a rebound in Chinese stocks and an earnings-driven surge on Wall Street, while oil prices rose on concerns U.S. sanctions against Iran could cause supply shortages.

The equity gains prompted investors to sell safe-haven assets before the first leg of this week's $78 billion quarterly U.S. government refunding, pushing Treasury yields higher.

The dollar weakened against the euro on a more stable Chinese yuan after the currency pair neared but failed to break through technical levels supporting the single currency.

U.S. corporate revenues are growing at a time the European and Japanese central banks continue to prop up their economies, which is suppressing shorter-term interest rates, said Michael Kelly, global head of multi-asset at PineBridge Investments.

"Profits are incredible, actually, and it's not just tax-cut sugar highs," Kelly said.

Of the 428 companies in the S&P 500 that have released second-quarter earnings so far, 79 percent reported above analyst expectations, a beat rate that if it holds will be the highest since Thomson Reuters started reporting the figure in 1994.

Earnings per share without the tax change would be 15.5 percent higher, leading to upward revisions for the rest of the year, according to Credit Suisse.

MSCI's all-country world index of stock markets in 47 countries <.MIWD00000PUS> gained 0.46 percent, while the pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 index <.FTEU3> of leading regional shares closed up 0.54 percent.

On Wall Street, the Dow Jones Industrial Average <.DJI> closed up 126.73 points, or 0.5 percent, to 25,628.91. The S&P 500 <.SPX> gained 8.05 points, or 0.28 percent, to 2,858.45 and the Nasdaq Composite <.IXIC> added 23.99 points, or 0.31 percent, to 7,883.66.

Powered by gains in technology stocks and strong second-quarter U.S. earnings, the benchmark S&P 500 was half a percentage point from its record peak in January.

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Tesla Inc <TSLA.O> shares jumped almost 11 percent after Chief Executive Elon Musk said on Twitter he is considering taking the electric car maker private at $420 per share.

Shares traded as high as $387.46 before closing at $379.57.

Such a deal, at about $72 billion, would take Tesla out of the glare of Wall Street but might limit its access to capital.

Chinese stocks rebounded overnight on hopes of fresh government spending, following a four-day selloff that had knocked them down about 6 percent. [.SS]

China's central bank on Friday raised the cost of shorting the yuan, which stabilized the currency and helped boost the euro against the dollar.

The dollar index <.DXY> fell 0.19 percent, with the euro <EUR=> up 0.38 percent to $1.1597. The Japanese yen <JPY=> firmed 0.02 percent versus the greenback at 111.41 per dollar.

Turkey's lira recovered as much as 2 percent from Monday's losses of more than 5 percent after Washington moved to end duty-free access to U.S. markets for some Turkish exports.

Benchmark 10-year notes <US10YT=RR> fell 11/32 in price to yield 2.9786 percent, up from 2.938 percent late on Monday.

U.S. gold futures <GCcv1> for December delivery settled up 60 cents, or 0.1 percent, at $1,218.30 an ounce.

Crude prices climbed as the United States revived sanctions against Iran. U.S. crude <CLcv1> rose 16 cents to settle at $69.17 a barrel and Brent <LCOcv1> gained 90 cents to settle at $74.65.

The first round of U.S. sanctions target Iran's dollar purchases, metals trading, coal, industrial software and its auto sector.

(Additional reporting by Marc Jones, Ahmad Ghaddar and Helen Reid in London, Amy Caren Daniel, Richard Leong in New York; Editing by Meredith Mazzilli and Lisa Shumaker)
Sydney (AFP) - Australian firm Amcor announced a $6.8 billion buyout of US rival Bemis Tuesday to become the world's largest plastic packaging group, and will shift its primary listing to the New York Stock Exchange.

Amcor will issue 5.1 of its shares for each Bemis share under the deal, in a transaction that will see Bemis stockholders owning 29 percent of the combined company and Amcor the rest.

It represents a 25 percent premium to Bemis' closing price of $46.31 on August 2.

The new entity, which will have combined revenues of US$13 billion, will have a main listing on the New York Stock Exchange and is expected to be included in the S&P 500. It will also remain listed in Australia.

Chief executive Ron Delia said Amcor's biggest ever acquisition would give it a stronger foothold in the North American and Brazilian markets and made sense in an industry undergoing consolidation.

"The strategic rationale for this combination and the financial benefits are highly compelling for both Amcor and Bemis shareholders," he said in a statement, adding that there would be significant cost savings.

"Amcor identified flexible packaging in the Americas as a key growth priority and this transaction delivers a step change in that region."

He said there was an increasing number of opportunities to capitalise on shifting consumer needs and the demand for more responsible packaging solutions that protect the environment.

Amcor shares dropped more than four percent to Aus$14.52 ($10.73) in morning trading in Sydney as investors digested the news.

Bemis chief executive William F. Austen said he was thrilled by the opportunities the merger offered and noted the common features of both firms, including histories that date back more than 150 years.

"The combination of Bemis and Amcor is transformational, bringing together two highly complementary organisations to create a global leader in consumer packaging," he said.

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"We believe this combination, which is an exciting growth story for both companies, will benefit all stakeholders.

- Industry consolidates -

Amcor produces rigid and flexible packaging for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, medical, home, personal care and other products, operating in 40 countries with more than $9 billion in sales annually.

It has been on a growth drive in recent years, with several smaller-scale acquisitions, including Alusa, the largest flexible packaging business in South America, and Chinese firm Qite.

The packaging industry itself has also been consolidating, with a host of mergers and acquisitions as companies seek scale and cost savings.

It has seen Ireland's Smurfit Kappa recently agree to buy Dutch-based Reparenco and Britain's DS Smith acquire Spanish rival Europac.

Bemis, which was established in 1858 and is headquartered in Wisconsin, operates in a similar vein to Amcor but on a smaller scale, generating US$4 billion in sales last year, most of it from the United States.

Its customers include major conglomerates such as Kraft-Heinz, Proctor & Gamble and Kimberly-Clark.

The deal is expected to be concluded in the first quarter of next year with Bemis directors getting three seats on Amcor's 11-person board.
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)  An Austria man has died in a pack-rafting accident in Alaska.

National Park Service officials say 22-year-old Aidan Don of Salzburg, Austria, died Thursday in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. His body was recovered Friday from the Nizina River.

Don and a friend were dropped off by plane Thursday around a lake at the base of the Nizina Glacier for a daylong trip on the river.

Officials say the novice pack-rafters became separated a few miles downriver. The surviving rafter made an emergency call for help after seeing Don's capsized raft but no sign of him.

According to officials, aerial searchers located Don's body and also picked up the survivor. Because of the difficulty reaching the body, a helicopter was required to recover the body the next day.
MINSK, Belarus (AP)  Authorities in Belarus have detained at least three journalists in what some view as an attack on freedom of speech.

Belarus' Investigative Committee said Tuesday the journalists from two leading independent news outlets were detained on charges of getting unsanctioned access to information from the state news BelTA, and failing to pay for it.

They may face up to two years in prison if convicted.

Andrei Bastunets, the head of the Belarusian Association of Journalists, criticized the move as an attempt to intimidate independent journalists. He said that "the authorities are trying to cover the attack on leading independent media with economic motives."

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has ruled the ex-Soviet nation of 10 million since 1994, cracking down on dissent and free media and maintaining Soviet-style control over its economy.
The Bachelorette finale has come and gone and with it, a fair share of controversy centering around the man Becca chose to marry, Garrett Yrigoyan. Garrett made headlines recently when it came to light, via the Twitter account of former Bachelor contestant Ashley Spivey, that he liked anti-immigrant, transphobic, and misogynistic posts on Instagram. Also, one of the posts Garrett liked claimed Parkland shooting survivor David Hogg is a crisis actor. Garrett has since apologized and, this being his and Beccas first public appearance as a couple, Becca took this opportunity to address the controversy.The Instagram situation, I don't condone that, Becca said, and I know that he stands by his apology, and he feels so bad for everyone that he did offend, and, you know, he didn't mean it. But I just want to move forward, and to learn, and to grow, and to continue to educate ourselves.

Though Becca and Garrett may disagree politically (The wallpaper on her Twitter page is Joe Biden), they didnt let their differing views drive them apart. In fact, Becca said it forced them to have difficult conversations and actually brought them closer together.It's a challenge that we had to overcome, and it's been a hurdle, but we have pushed through, and we have talked about it, Becca said.Though Becca may have bought Garretts apology, fans? Not so much.
The Bachelorette finale has come and gone and with it a fair share of controversy centered on the man Becca chose to marry, Garrett Yrigoyan. He made headlines recently when it came to light, via the Twitter account of former Bachelor contestant Ashley Spivey, that he liked anti-immigrant, transphobic, and misogynistic posts on Instagram. One of the posts Garrett liked claimed that Parkland shooting survivor David Hogg is a crisis actor. Garrett has since apologized, and in his and Beccas first public appearance as a couple on the finale, Becca took the opportunity to address the controversy.

The Instagram situation, I dont condone that, Becca said. I know that he stands by his apology, and he feels so bad for everyone that he did offend, and  he didnt mean it. But I just want to move forward, and to learn, and to grow, and to continue to educate ourselves.

Though Becca and Garrett may disagree politically (the wallpaper on her Twitter page is Joe Biden), they didnt let their differing views drive them apart. In fact, Becca said it forced them to have difficult conversations and actually brought them closer together.

Its a challenge that we had to overcome, and its been a hurdle, but we have pushed through, and we have talked about it, Becca said.

Though Becca may have bought Garretts apology, fans? Not so much.

Garrett and Becca circling around that apology was exhausting to see. Its so generic and you can tell at the end of the day she doesnt give a damn that he believes in that disgusting stuff about the Parkland students and is racist/transphobic. pic.twitter.com/2UvMhs4nkK  beth  (@monroeelizabeth) August 7, 2018

Enjoy your MAGA rallies Becca. Sigh. #TheBachelorette  Gigi (@Gigi_Girl525) August 7, 2018

The Bachelorette airs Mondays at 8 p.m. on ABC. Watch clips and full episodes of The Bachelorette for free on Yahoo View.

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Take a look back at how Beccas journey got started:

Read more from Yahoo Entertainment:

Tell us what you think! Hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, or leave your comments below. And check out our host, Kylie Mar, on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.
Bangladesh on Monday promised to introduce the death penalty for deliberate road deaths in a bid to quell more than a week of demonstrations calling for better road safety, as new student-led protests were met with tear gas and rubber bullets.

Over the weekend scores of people were hurt as police fired tear gas and mobs apparently loyal to the government attacked demonstrators, photographers and even the US ambassador's car.

The tens of thousands of teenage school pupils and university students who have paralysed the capital Dhaka and elsewhere for the past nine days -- and torched eight buses -- are pressing for better road safety after a speeding bus killed two teenagers on July 29.

The latest clashes on Monday in the Rampura neighbourhood saw police use tear gas to dispel hundreds of students from a private university, local police chief Rafiqul Islam told AFP.

"They tried to set ablaze a police camp. We fired tear gas to disperse them," he said, adding four police officers were injured.

Students told AFP that police fired rubber bullets at protesters in Bashundhara neighbourhood, which is home to two private universities, and that members of the student wing of the ruling Awami League party attacked the protesters with sticks and bricks.

"The situation is very bad. We have carried at least three students to the nearby Apollo Hospital," one student, Z. Mallick, told AFP.

At least 40 people were injured during the clashes at Bashundhara, reported local English-language newspaper Daily Star.

The lengthy standoff, attracting foreign media interest and criticism from the UN and rights groups, has turned into a major test of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government ahead of December elections.

On Monday the law and justice minister Anisul Huq told AFP the cabinet has approved a new law allowing for the death penalty "if an investigation finds that the death in a road accident has been caused deliberately".

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- Scores injured -

The protests took a violent turn in Dhaka on Saturday, with more than 100 people hurt as police fired rubber bullets at demonstrators, according to students and doctors who treated the injured.

The authorities have shut down mobile internet services across swathes of the country and Hasina urged students to go home, but to no avail.

A car carrying US ambassador Marcia Bernicat was on Saturday attacked by armed adult men, but she escaped unscathed, the embassy said.

On Sunday dozens of protesters were attacked by people alleged to be ruling party activists, some armed with machetes, leaving scores injured including half a dozen photographers.

The US embassy said separately that while it did not condone "senseless property destruction... nothing can justify the brutal attacks and violence over the weekend against the thousands of young people who have been peacefully exercising their democratic rights in supporting a safer Bangladesh."

- Photographer detained -

Rights group Amnesty International called on the government to stop its "violent crackdown" on "overwhelmingly peaceful student protestors".

It also called for the immediate release of Shahidul Alam, 63, a renowned Bangladeshi photographer who was detained on Sunday night after giving an interview to Al Jazeera about the protests.

"We are interrogating him for giving false information to different media and for provocative comments," police official Moshiur Rahman told AFP.

Alam said he was beaten in custody.

"(They) washed my bloodstained punjabi (tunic) and made me wear it again," he said as he was taken into a Dhaka court.

According to his colleague Abir Abdullah, Alam, whose photos have appeared widely in Western media, was taken away from his Dhaka home by at least 20 plainclothes police.

Alam is the founder and managing director of the Drik Gallery and the creator of the Pathshala South Asian Media Institute, a photography school in the capital Dhaka that has spawned hundreds of photographers.

In recent days, Alam shot images of the demonstrations by tens of thousands of teenagers in Dhaka and beyond, and discussed the protests on Facebook Live.
By Brendan Pierson

NEW YORK (Reuters) - A former minister in the government of Barbados has been criminally charged in the United States with laundering bribes he received from a Barbadian insurance company, federal prosecutors said on Monday.

Donville Inniss, who formerly served as minister of industry in Barbados and as a member of the Caribbean nation's Parliament, was arrested on Friday in Florida. He was released on bail after appearing in federal court there on Monday, prosecutors said.

Inniss was charged with money laundering and conspiracy in an indictment unsealed on Monday in Brooklyn federal court.

Adam Nate, a lawyer for Inniss, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Prosecutors said in the indictment that in 2015 and 2016, Inniss engaged in a scheme to take about $36,000 in bribes from high-level executives of a unnamed Barbadian insurance company. In exchange, they said, Inniss used his position as minister of industry to help the insurer secure two government contracts.

The prosecutors said Inniss, 52, concealed the nature of the bribes by receiving them through a dental company and a bank located in Elmont, New York, under the guise of payments for consulting services.

Inniss, a legal permanent resident of the United States, lived in Florida and Barbados at the time of the payments, prosecutors said.

(Reporting by Brendan Pierson in New York; Editing by Matthew Lewis)
Madrid (AFP) - Barcelona Mayor Ada Colau is facing calls to quit over perceived insecurity in Spain's most-visited city as criticism after the assault of a US visitor sparked a very public insult by her tourism czar.

Opposition parties have called a meeting on Wednesday to "condemn Colau's government in the face of its incompetence and inability to offer a response to the problems that are damaging Barcelona," the main opposition party PDeCAT tweeted.

The crisis kicked off last Wednesday when a US tourist was assaulted by street vendors, sparking criticism from an opposition which denounces an increase in insecurity in the seaside city, a major tourist magnet.

Colau, who is usually very active on social networks, did not respond.

But Albert Arias -- in charge of the city's tourism strategy -- did.

"Right, so a guy fights with another guy and suddenly the city is Gomorrah, the country is sinking, the newspapers heat up and in the end, hey presto, it's Colau's fault as she doesn't do a thing," he tweeted ironically on Sunday.

"Quite frankly you can go fuck yourselves."

He later apologised and took his account off Twitter.

The US tourist who was assaulted was briefly hospitalised for head injuries.

Opposition parties are also denouncing insecurity in districts like El Raval in the centre, home to so-called "narco-flats" where drugs are sold are rife.

On Saturday, men with knives and sticks were caught on camera fighting each other.

"She has failed as a mayor and as the one in charge of security. She must resign and allow for a change," said Santiago Alonso, spokesman for the centre-right party Ciudadanos.

Any condemnation of Colau will merely be symbolic as none of the parties has raised the possibility of a no-confidence vote to oust her just nine months ahead of municipal and regional elections in Spain.
A dead baby blue whale washed up on the shores of Japan on Sunday, about 40 miles south of Tokyo.

The mammal, which was found dead on the shores of Yuigahama Beach in Kamakura City, measured about 32 feet in length, Reuters reported. On average, adult blue whales, the largest animals on earth, grow to about 100 feet long and weigh 200 tons. The one that washed up on Yuigahama Beach is believed to be a baby born this year, NKH World reported.

The cause of death is still unknown, according to ABC News.

WASHED UP: Beach goers discovered a dead blue whale washed up on a beach near Tokyo, Japan. Local experts say the size of the endangered mammal indicates it was born this year. Cause of death is still unknown. https://t.co/POUzRJfmVt pic.twitter.com/XCQcfZRmX8  World News Tonight (@ABCWorldNews) August 6, 2018

The whale is still there. They were taking measurements this morning, and will bury it later today. Asked a fisherwoman obaachan if this had ever happened before  nope, not that she recalled. Nothing this big. pic.twitter.com/VxTjJrV6jW  Kamakura By The Sea (@Kamakura_By_Sea) August 5, 2018

Kanagawa Prefecture Kamakura city's coastal whales,As a result of field survey by the experts of the National Science Museum,It was a blue whale of a 10M length of an child born this year.There was no record of the past drifted on the coast of Japan, this time the first time. pic.twitter.com/sA0He1DF1S   (@ommzk) August 6, 2018

NBC News local Chicago station reported that Japans National Museum of Nature and Science said there is no record of this happening before in the country.

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According to the World Wildlife Fund, the mammals are endangered. They were a main whaling targets during the 20th century, even after the practice was stopped in 1966 and the animals were given protected status.

Also on HuffPost

A Humpback whale jumps in the surface of the Pacific Ocean at the Uramba Bahia Malaga natural park in Colombia, on July 16, 2013. Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) migrate annually from the Antarctic Peninsula to peek into the Colombian Pacific Ocean coast, with an approximate distance of 8,500 km, to give birth and nurse their young. Humpback whales have a life cycle of 50 years or so and is about 18 meters. AFP PHOTO/Luis ROBAYO

A Humpback whale jumps in the surface of the Pacific Ocean at the Uramba Bahia Malaga natural park in Colombia, on July 16, 2013. Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) migrate annually from the Antarctic Peninsula to peek into the Colombian Pacific Ocean coast, with an approximate distance of 8,500 km, to give birth and nurse their young. Humpback whales have a life cycle of 50 years or so and is about 18 meters. AFP PHOTO/Luis ROBAYO

A Humpback whale jumps in the surface of the Pacific Ocean at the Uramba Bahia Malaga natural park in Colombia, on July 16, 2013. Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) migrate annually from the Antarctic Peninsula to peek into the Colombian Pacific Ocean coast, with an approximate distance of 8,500 km, to give birth and nurse their young. Humpback whales have a life cycle of 50 years or so and are about 18 meters long. AFP PHOTO/Luis ROBAYO

A Humpback whale jumps in the surface of the Pacific Ocean at the Uramba Bahia Malaga natural park in Colombia, on July 16, 2013. Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) migrate annually from the Antarctic Peninsula to peek into the Colombian Pacific Ocean coast, with an approximate distance of 8,500 km, to give birth and nurse their young. Humpback whales have a life cycle of 50 years or so and are about 18 meters long. AFP PHOTO/Luis ROBAYO

NUUK, GREENLAND - JULY 27: Boats follow a whale as it swims in the water on July 27, 2013 in Nuuk, Greenland. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

A whale jumps to the surface off the coast of Libreville in Gabon on August 19, 2013. AFP PHOTO / STEPHANE BERRY

A Southern Right Whale breaches on September 5, 2013 in Hermanus, which has become known as a mecca for whale watching. During the southern hemisphere winter months (June - October) the Southern Right Whales migrate to the coastal waters of South Africa, with in excess of 100 whales known to be in the Hermanus area. Whilst in the area, the whales can be seen with their young as they come to Walker Bay to calve and mate. AFP PHOTO / ALEXANDER JOE

A Southern Right Whale breaches on September 5, 2013 in Hermanus, which has become known as a mecca for whale watching. During the southern hemisphere winter months (June - October) the Southern Right Whales migrate to the coastal waters of South Africa, with in excess of 100 whales known to be in the Hermanus area. Whilst in the area, the whales can be seen with their young as they come to Walker Bay to calve and mate. AFP PHOTO / ALEXANDER JOE

A humpback whale tail breaches off Sydney Heads at the beginning of whale watching season during a Manly Whale Watching tour on June 23, 2011 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

A humpback whale emerges from the surface of the Pacific Ocean at the Uramba Bahia Malaga natural park in Colombia, on July 22, 2011. (LUIS ROBAYO/AFP/Getty Images)

A humpback whale is seen breaching outside of Sydney Heads at the beginning of whale watching season during a Manly Whale Watching tour on June 23, 2011 in Sydney, Australia.

An 8.5 metre-long juvenile humpback whale remains stranded on Anaconda beach in La Paloma, department of Rocha, in southeastern Uruguay, on January 27, 2011. AFP

A humpback whale is seen breaching outside of Sydney Heads at the beginning of whale watching season during a Manly Whale Watching tour on June 23, 2011 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

The tail of a humpback whale emerges from the surface of the Pacific Ocean at the Uramba Bahia Malaga natural park in Colombia, on July 22, 2011. (LUIS ROBAYO/AFP/Getty Images)

A franco-austral whale surfaces off the coast of Antoniopolis, in the Uruguayan department of Rocha, 220 km east of Montevideo, on September 22, 2012 during the migration to the south. AFP PHOTO/Pablo PORCIUNCULA

A franco-austral whale surfaces off the coast of Antoniopolis, in the Uruguayan department of Rocha, 220 km east of Montevideo, on September 22, 2012 during the migration to the south. AFP PHOTO/Pablo PORCIUNCULA

A Franco-austral whale surfaces off the coast of Arachania, Rocha, 225 km east of Montevideo, Uruguay, on September 21, 2012 during the migration to the south. AFP PHOTO/Pablo PORCIUNCULA

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SANAA (Reuters) - Yemen's beekeepers risk air strikes and land mines as they traverse the country's valleys, transporting their hives on pick-up trucks to produce some of the world's finest honey. The impoverished Arab state, known for its Sidr honey made from the jujube tree, has endured three years of war that have pushed it to the verge of famine and shattered the economy. "Before the war...we produced large quantities of honey. [But now] honey farmers who move their private farms at night sometimes get hit by mistake," said Faris al-Howry, who owns one of the main honey stores in the capital Sanaa. "It's happened with two or three farmers we know where their farms were bombed [in air strikes]." A Saudi-led coalition which intervened in 2015 to restore the internationally recognized government has conducted thousands of air strikes in its battle against the Iranian-aligned Houthi movement which controls the most populous areas of Yemen, including Sanaa. Some air strikes have hit civilian targets, although the coalition denies doing so intentionally. Houthi fighters have also placed landmines in territory under their control. Yemen exported 50,000 tonnes of honey per year before the war but exports have since fallen by more than 50 percent, according to the Federation of Yemeni Beekepers, which says there are around 100,000 people working in honey farms in Yemen. "Breeders must now be mindful that when they're trying to move from location to location, they could be targeted or bombed by mistake," said Abdullah Abdullah Yareem, head of the Yemeni Organization for Honey and Agriculture Development. He was speaking at a honey farm in al-Mahwit governorate where men tended to wooden hive boxes as bees flitted between sunflowers in a field. He added it has also become costlier to export honey due to stringent measures imposed on maritime flows by the Saudi-backed coalition, which accuses the Houthis of smuggling Iranian-made weapons, a charge denied by the group and Tehran. There is only one outlet - to Saudi Arabia, so all exports must flow through there, said Abdullah. "This has created a problem that raised transportation costs making the product reach the consumer at a very high price." Howry said business is bad as few people could afford luxuries. The price of honey in Yemen ranges from $100 for 1 kilo of Sidr to $68 for less premium types. Outside of Yemen the honey sell for around $180 dollars per kilo. "Sales are down 75 percent...There is no income, no salaries and no spending," he said in the store, where boxes of honeycomb are on display on the counter. (additional reporting by Mohammed Ghobari in Aden; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
Minsk (AFP) - Belarusian authorities on Tuesday detained at least three journalists from two independent news websites over "unauthorised" access to services provided by the state news agency.

Tut.by editors Maria Zolotova and Anna Kaltygina were detained along with Tatiana Korovenkova, a BelaPAN journalist, the Belarusian Investigative Committee said.

All three are accused of "unauthorised access to computer information for reasons of personal gain," it said in a statement, indicating that a criminal case had been opened.

State news agency BelTA has accused them of failing to pay subscription fees.

If found guilty, they face up to two years in prison.

Tut.by said Ulyana Boboyed, who edits its society section, had also been detained and that several others had also been interrogated.

Officials said that between them, the two websites had made more than 15,000 "unauthorised connections" to BelTa without its "knowledge or consent"

"As a result of the committed crimes, BelTa suffered significant harm" and its "business reputation was harmed," the Investigative Committee said.

- 'Not a political issue' -

BelPAN's chief editor Irina Levshina told AFP her news site "does not have a BelTA subscription, but with the agency's agreement we used material from its website with hyperlinks."

"We are forced to take this information, as we work in unequal conditions. We do not have access to official information and to the press services of (our) country's leadership," Levshina said.

Belarusian foreign ministry spokesman Anatoly Glaz told Russian state media the arrests had "nothing to do with issues of press freedom" in Belarus and were not linked to "the political realm."

Speaking to Russia's RIA Novosti news agency, Glaz called the case "purely a legal issue" about "the banal misuse of access to paid information."

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In a statement, the Council of Europe expressed "great concern" over the case and called for the journalists to be released.

In July, a Minsk court sentenced independent journalist Dzmitry Halko to four years in prison for allegedly assaulting a police officer.

Belarus is ranked 155th out of 180 in this year's Reporters Without Borders world press freedom index.

President Alexander Lukashenko has ruled the ex-Soviet country, which shares borders with three EU member states, with an iron fist since 1994.
By Andrei Makhovsky MINSK (Reuters) - Three journalists working for independent news outlets in Belarus were detained on Tuesday on suspicion of hacking the computer systems of state-run news agency BelTA and stealing its data, the authorities said. The Belarusian Association of Journalists and local media said five people had been detained for a period of three days and several more detained for questioning. Reuters could not independently confirm that information. Investigators said they had opened a criminal case against two editors from the privately-owned independent news website "Tut.by", the biggest online news portal in the country with 800,000 daily unique users, and against one journalist from the independent news agency BelaPAN. Local rights groups said the arrests were part of a government drive to muzzle independent media. Last year, the Belarusian authorities put down peaceful opposition protests in a severe crackdown which ended a brief period during which the government had eased its authoritarian rule. "Without the knowledge or agreement of the republican unitary enterprise (BelTA), information held on its computer system was accessed illegally more than 15,000 times over a two-year period," investigators said in a statement. Nasha niva, another independent news website, cited a representative of BelTA as saying the detained journalists had used other people's passwords to access its news wire. Yuri Zisser, the owner of Tut.by, told Reuters that BelTA had never complained before about the use of its information. "I'm really confused and don't understand what this is about and why it's needed," he said. Ales Lipai, the director of BelaPAN, said the case was a mystery that had come out of the blue. "All of BelTA's material is freely available. It's written on their website that you can use their material as long as you provide attribution, which is what we did." A spokesman for the Council of Europe's secretary general called on the Belarusian authorities to free the detained journalists and conduct a transparent investigation. A spokesman for the Belarusian Foreign Ministry said the detentions had nothing to do with freedom of speech. "This is purely a legal matter," the ministry said in a statement. Andrei Bastunets, head of the Belarusian Association of Journalists, said government pressure on independent media had been on the rise in the last year. "I link this (case) with the general trend and the desire to control the internet space," he said of the detentions. President Alexander Lukashenko has run Belarus along Soviet-style command lines since 1994. He has heeded some calls from the West to show more leniency toward political opposition, but opponents say their freedom to operate remains severely limited. (Additional reporting by Yun Chee Foo in Brussels; Writing by Andrew Osborn; Editing by Richard Balmforth)
Welcome to Best Bites, a twice-weekly video series that aims to satisfy your never-ending craving for food content through quick, beautiful videos for the at-home foodie. Check back on Tuesdays and Thursdays for new episodes!

A deliciously creamy pasta salad with all the flavors of the classic Caesar salad, this dish is both easy and quick to make at home! Check out the recipe for Chicken Cesar Pasta Salad on this episode of Best Bites!

Ingredients:

1 cup mayonnaise

1/3 cup sour cream

1 clove large garlic pressed

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 anchovies finely minced

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 pound penne pasta cooked until al dente and rinsed with cool water

6 leaves large Romaine lettuce thinly sliced

1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes

4 green onions. green parts sliced

1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

2 grilled chicken breasts diced

1 1/2 cups croutons

Instructions:
Beyonce revealed that she experienced toxemia, also known as preeclampsia, while she was pregnant with her twins, Sir and Rumi. The condition left her swollen and put her on bed rest for more than a month.

In an interview in the September issue of Vogue, the entertainer said that the condition led to an emergency Cesarean section, which required the twins to spend weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Heres what you should know about toxemia, aka preeclampsia.

What is preeclampsia, and why is it also called toxemia?

About 5% of pregnant women will get preeclampsia while expecting  usually toward the end of the pregnancy, after 37 weeks or so.

It can be a sign that the placenta, the critical source of nutrients for the growing baby, is not functioning properly and may even be detaching from the uterus. (Poor blood flow to the uterus could be a contributing factor.) Thats why doctors often prescribe bed rest.

Toxemia is a broader term referring to unknown toxins that might be causing a medical condition. And since a sign of preeclampsia can be higher levels of protein in the urine, some doctors refer to this type of preeclampsia as preeclampsia toxemia. Some women only develop higher blood pressure during pregnancy; this is referred to as pregnancy-induced hypertension, which is a different condition from preeclampsia.

What are the symptoms of preeclampsia?

Women with the condition develop high blood pressure, swelling in the hands, feet and legs, and show high levels of protein in their urine. They may also develop headaches, dizziness, blurry vision and sudden weight gain.

Why is preeclampsia dangerous?

Preeclampsia can lead to eclampsia, which causes expectant mothers to have seizures and can put their lives, and their babies lives, at risk.

What causes preeclampsia?

Its not clear why some women experience the condition, but women carrying twins, like Beyonce, and women with diabetes tend to be at higher risk. Older women and first-time mothers also have a higher risk for preeclampsia. Having a history of high blood pressure before pregnancy, or having a mother or sister who experienced the condition, can also increase the chances the condition will develop, since genetics may play a role.

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How is preeclampsia treated?

The only way to treat the condition is to deliver the baby. If they feel the baby has developed enough, doctors will do this by inducing labor or performing a Cesarean section. (In the Vogue interview, Beyonce said she had an emergency C-section.) To get to that point, usually at 37 weeks, doctors may provide steroids to improve the babys lung growth and prescribe bed rest for the last weeks of pregnancy. They may also use medications to control blood pressure and do regular blood and urine tests to keep track of the excess protein.

Once you have preeclampsia, will you have it again?

Preeclampsia, if its properly treated during pregnancy, will resolve a week or so after delivery. While its more likely that women who have experienced it will develop it again in future pregnancies, thats not always the case.

During a C-section, do organs move around?

After the C-section, my core felt different, Beyonce said in the interview. It had been major surgery. Some of your organs are shifted temporarily, and in rare cases, removed temporarily during delivery.

In a C-section, the uterus is most certainly moved; often its lifted partly out of the body. But most of the other organs, including the bladder and intestines, remain inside the body. However, they might be shifted slightly to give the surgeon more room to reach the uterus.
Boris Johnson has hit back at calls for the burka to be banned in public places (Rex)

Boris Johnson has been accused of Islamophobia after saying that Muslim women wearing burkas look like letter boxes or bank robbers.

The former foreign secretary was discussing the decision in Denmark to impose fines for wearing the burka or niqab in the streets.

Mr Johnson rejected calls for the burka to be banned in public  but described the garments as absolutely ridiculous and compared their wearers to rebellious teenagers.

Labour MP David Lammy branded Mr Johnson a pound-shop Donald Trump and accused him of fanning the flames of Islamophobia for political advantage.

Muslim women are having their burkas pulled off by thugs in our streets & Boris Johnson's response is to mock them for "looking like letter boxes." Our pound-shop Donald Trump is fanning the flames of Islamophobia to propel his grubby electoral ambitions.https://t.co/51YTjIdT4x  David Lammy (@DavidLammy) August 6, 2018

The assistant secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain, Miqdaad Versi, accused Mr Johnson of pandering to the far-right by using vile language to describe Muslim women in niqab.

Denmark last week followed France, Germany, Austria and Belgium in banning the burka in public places.

The former Foreign Secretary said Denmark was wrong to impose fines for wearing the burka or niqab in the streets (PA)

A fine of around 120 has already been imposed on a woman wearing one in a shopping centre in the town of Horsholm, after another woman reportedly tried to tear it off.

Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Mr Johnson said he felt fully entitled to expect women to remove face coverings when talking to him at his MPs surgery, and said schools and universities should be able to take the same approach if a student turns up  looking like a bank robber.

He wrote: If you tell me that the burka is oppressive, then I am with you.

MOST POPULAR ON YAHOO NEWS UK

If you say that it is weird and bullying to expect women to cover their faces, then I totally agree  and I would add that I can find no scriptural authority for the practice in the Koran.

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I would go further and say that it is absolutely ridiculous that people should choose to go around looking like letter boxes; and I thoroughly dislike any attempt by any  invariably male  government to encourage such demonstrations of modesty.

Businesses and government agencies should also be able to enforce a dress code that enables their employees to interact with customers, including by allowing them to see their faces, said Mr Johnson.

Mr Johnson came under attack for saying that Muslim women in burkas look like letter boxes (Rex)

But he added: Such restrictions are not quite the same as telling a free-born adult woman what she may or may not wear, in a public place, when she is simply minding her own business.

I am against a total ban because it is inevitably construed  rightly or wrongly  as being intended to make some point about Islam.

A total ban would give a boost to radicals who claim there is a clash of civilisations between Islam and the West, fanning the flames of grievance and turning women into martyrs, he warned.

And he said that a ban on burkas could lead to a general crackdown on any public symbols of religious affiliation.

Mr Johnson wrote: Like a parent confronted by a rebellious teenager determined to wear a spike through her tongue, or a bolt through her nose, you run the risk that, by your heavy-handed attempt to ban what you see as a bizarre and unattractive adornment, you simply stiffen resistance

If Danish women really want to cover their faces, then it seems a bit extreme  all the caveats above understood  to stop them under all circumstances. I dont propose we follow suit. A total ban is not the answer.

Mr Lammy responded on Twitter: Muslim women are having their burkas pulled off by thugs in our streets and Boris Johnsons response is to mock them for looking like letter boxes.

Our pound-shop Donald Trump is fanning the flames of Islamophobia to propel his grubby electoral ambitions.
Conservative Party chairman Brandon Lewis, left, wants an apology from Boris Johnson (Pictures: PA)

Boris Johnson has defied calls for him to make an apology for comments he made about Muslim women wearing burkas.

The former foreign secretary is standing firm after the Conservative Party chairman said he should say sorry for his offensive remarks.

The call by Brandon Lewis followed a hail of criticism for Mr Johnsons remarks, which were described as offensive by foreign office minister Alistair Burt and bigotry by former Tory chair Baroness Warsi.

Writing in the Daily Telegraph on Monday, the former foreign secretary argued against banning burkas and niqabs, but described the garments as ridiculous and weird and said women wearing them looked like letter-boxes or bank robbers.

While agreeing with Mr Johnson that the burka should not be banned, Mr Burt told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I would never have made such a comment, I think there is a degree of offence in that, absolutely right.

Boris Johnson has been criticised for his comments (Picture: Rex)

MOST POPULAR ON YAHOO NEWS UK

Lady Warsi accused Mr Johnson of adopting the dog whistle tactics of former Donald Trump aide Steve Bannon in the hope of attracting support from right-wing Tories for an eventual leadership bid.

Repeating her call for an independent inquiry into Islamophobia in the Conservative Party, she told Channel 4 News: Muslim women should not be a useful political battleground for Old Etonians.

It is crass and it must stop, and it must be condemned by the leadership right from the prime minister down.

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In a message on Twitter, Mr Lewis said: I agree with Alistair Burt. I have asked Boris Johnson to apologise.

Friends of the MP insisted he was making a liberal case against the UK following countries like Denmark, France, Germany and Austria in imposing a ban on wearing the burka or niqab in public places.

A source close to Mr Johnson said: It is ridiculous that these views are being attacked  we must not fall into the trap of shutting down the debate on difficult issues.

We have to call it out. If we fail to speak up for liberal values then we are simply yielding ground to reactionaries and extremists.

But Lady Warsi suggested it was a calculated move by the former Cabinet minister to garner right-wing support.

These were offensive comments but clever politics, she said. Boris knew the effect and the impact that this kind of dog-whistle politics would have.

This is literally the kind of bigotry of Bannon and the tactics of Trump finding its way into mainstream British politics. Its not the first time that Boris has tried to make a leadership bid.

Mr Johnsons father, Stanley, came to his defence, telling ITV1s Good Morning Britain: I think we are just picking holes here. I think people are whipping up a little mountain out of a molehill on this one, I really do.

And Tory MP Nadine Dorries said the former foreign secretary did not go far enough and it was the Government which should be apologising.

Any clothing a woman is forced to wear which hides both her beauty and her bruises should be banned and have no place in our liberal, progressive country, said Ms Dorries.
Celtics coach Brad Stevens is ready for the challenge of next season. (AP)

BOSTON  From his spacious office inside the Auerbach Center, the Celtics glistening 70,000-square-foot practice facility that officially opened in June, Brad Stevens is getting antsy. Its been a little over two months since Bostons season ended, since LeBron James sent Stevens team packing for the second straight season. Training camp officially opens in late September  which, for Stevens, cant come soon enough.

We were all disappointed with how it ended, the Celtics coach told the Yahoo Sports NBA podcast. That was the beauty of that team  it didnt really buy into everybody elses thoughts  Well all improve from the experience, but theres no question, were itching to get started.

And why wouldnt he? Since the NBA Finals ended and James took his talents to Manhattan Beach, everyone is talking about Boston. Favorites to win the East. Co-favorites to win the whole thing. The Warriors seemed to cinch up a third straight title with the signing of DeMarcus Cousins, but this Boston team  3-3 against Golden State the last three years, with Stevens effective, switch-happy defense a key reason  is being given at least a punchers chance at a title. Oddsmaker SuperBook projects the Celtics to win 57 games; BetDSI has Boston at plus-575 to win a championship  second-lowest odds of any NBA team.

All of this means real expectations  a first for Stevens in Boston. The Celtics have been a rebuilding team under Stevens (a 25-win 2013-14 season, his first in Boston), a surprise contending team (the 53-win 16-17 season) and an overachieving team (last years injury-plagued 55-win campaign). When next season opens, expectations will be, at a minimum, a conference championship.

How does Stevens approach a season like that?

The beautiful part of keeping a day-to-day mindset of trying to improve every day is that no matter what your expectations are  whether you are at the beginning or the building stage or you have a team like we do, thats bringing a lot of guys back, that is trying to reach a next step, or youre Golden State and you have won three of the last four championships  if youre focused on the day and getting better that day, everything takes care of itself, Stevens said. Our challenge is to be the best version of ourselves.

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Will Kyrie Irving return to his All-NBA form? (AP)

Still, the expectations will be lofty. There will be expectations on Kyrie Irving, the All-NBA point guard who thrived in his first season in Boston before a balky knee robbed him of the last third of it. Last month, Irving revealed details of the severity of his knee issues  bacteria that had built up nearly caused a staph infection, Irving said  but declared that he would be ready for training camp. Irvings free agency next summer will be a frequent talking point  though not between Irving and Stevens.

Im not going to talk to him about it at all, Stevens said. One of the things I want to do is give everything I can to all these guys while theyre here. Hopefully, the people that are here recognize that its a really good environment with a high upside for a long time. Its some place that will be committed to them, committed to their overall game and enhancement and off the court and everything else. Theres no real discussion to be had. Its more, We cant wait to get to work. 

There will be expectations on Jayson Tatum, the rookie phenom who stepped into the starting lineup as a 19-year-old and shattered any and all expectations. Stevens cant pinpoint the moment he realized Tatum was really good (There were a lot of them, Stevens said), but like everyone else, hes giddy about Tatums future. Tatum has placed a priority on strengthening his sinewy 6-foot-8, 205-pound frame, and Stevens says Tatum has been around the facility during the summer working toward that end.

Being able to play lower, longer requires a significant deal of core strength for any player, certainly for a younger player with size, Stevens said. Thats really been our emphasis, to continue to focus on the core strength of things.

As a rookie, Tatum proved he could shoot over people (he connected on 43.4 percent of his threes) and score around them. Is powering through opponents the next phase of his offensive development?

I hesitate to ever say go through somebody, because sometimes the right play in this league is not to go through, its to kick it out and make the next right play, Stevens said. Thats the beauty of Jayson  hes a good player, but he has so many areas that you can see can get a little bit better. But hes working on them. He was able to manage that and still be one of the best players on the court through a lot of those playoff games.

There will be expectations on Gordon Hayward, who is expected to be ready for the start of training camp. The Celtics sent a trainer to San Diego to work with Hayward last week, who reported back that Hayward looked great. GM Danny Ainge has spent time this summer with Hayward, too. Will Hayward be the All-Star the Celtics signed to a four-year, $128 million deal last summer? Not right away, but both Boston and Hayward believe he can get there.

I think there is a degree of patience anytime you are coming back from a significant injury, Stevens said. Its not just about the healing of the injury, its about getting back on the court in a five-on-five scenario  certainly for a guy who has missed a significant amount of time, a whole season with an injury.

Haywards recovery  and the pace Boston has with it  could (temporarily) solve another problem: the starting lineup. Boston has three starting-level wing players  Hayward, Tatum and Jaylen Brown  and two spots. There will be times the Celtics will go small, shifting Al Horford to center and making Tatum a small-ball power forward. But at some point, Stevens will have to have a conversation with someone about accepting a reserve role.

No question, Stevens said. But one of the things I think all our guys realize is that we have a good thing going. Nothing is guaranteed; we still have to come, put in the right amount of work, focus on the detail and skip no steps in getting better. But at the same time, if we do that we have a team that should be a tough out on any given night. I think part of being on a team, there is nothing like experiencing winning together. I think thats one of the things well shoot for here. For me, we have a unique thing. I think we all have to recognize that.

LeBron is gone, Bostons backcourt is healthy and the Celtics have the roster depth to send out hockey-style lines of quality talent. It hasnt been championship or bust for a while in Boston. It is once again.

More from Yahoo Sports:



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Sao Paulo (AFP) - Brazil briefly closed then reopened its northern border to Venezuelans on Monday as it struggled to contain mass migration from the South American country saddled with a crippling political and economic crisis, police said.

A Supreme Court justice overturned a lower court judge's decision that had suspended for a few hours the entry of more Venezuelans until other immigrants from the country were transferred elsewhere in Brazil.

"It is not justified to take the easy path to 'close the doors' because of difficulties in hosting refugees," Supreme Court justice Rosa Weber said in her ruling issued shortly before midnight.

The border had remained open to Brazilians and other nationalities, as well as to Venezuelans seeking to return to their home country.

It's a main crossing point for tens of thousands of Venezuelan migrants, an influx that has increased dramatically over the past two years.

President Michel Temer was opposed in a "non-negotiable" way to the border closure, Human Rights Minister Gustavo Rocha was quoted as saying by state-run Agencia Brasil.

Roraima state's capital Boa Vista has hosted the largest number of Venezuelan immigrants in the country -- around 25,000 out of a total of 330,000 city dwellers.

An estimated 500 Venezuelans cross the land border into Brazil each day.

Roraima Governor Suely Campos had applauded the federal judge's ruling that temporarily shuttered the border.

"We have been asking the federal Supreme Court since May to close the border, as well as for financial assistance to minimize the impact on our public services," Campos said in a statement.

But Weber, the Supreme Court justice, said: "Although most of those who cross the border between Venezuela and Brazil do not fit into the legal definition of refugee or asylum.

"Closing the border between the two countries could impact the situation of individuals who can qualify for protections under international law."
Judge says entry of immigrants suspended until conditions for humanitarian reception are created  activists called it absurd

Venezuelan refugees queue outside the UNHCRs Jardim Floresta Camp, in Boa Vista, Roraima State, north of Brazil on 3 May. Photograph: Evaristo Sa/AFP/Getty Images

A judge in Brazil has blocked Venezuelans from entering the border state of Roraima as local authorities harden their stance against the flood of migrants fleeing hunger and hardship in their home country.

Judge Helder Barreto said he had suspended the entry of Venezuelan immigrants until the conditions for a humanitarian reception are created but activists working with migrants attacked it as absurd.

Sister Telma Lage from the non-profit Migration and Human Rights Institute, which helps vulnerable migrants in Roraimas capital Boa Vista, said the judge had overstepped his authority.

[Venezuelans] are entering Brazil and seeking refuge because of the vulnerable situation they find themselves in, she said. What we fear is the lack of options for those near to the border.

Under the late Hugo Chavez, who ushered in Venezuelas socialist revolution in 1999, a new constitution and numerous elections placed nearly all government institutions under the control of the ruling Socialist party.

This concentration of power was aided by a feuding opposition which carried out ineffectual campaigns and electoral boycotts. After Chavez died of cancer in 2013, he was succeeded by Nicolas Maduro who is even less tolerant of dissent.

Growing political authoritarianism has coincided with greater state dominance over the economy. But expropriations, price controls and mismanagement have led to a 40% contraction of the economy in the past five years.

Oil accounts for 96% of Venezuelas export income but many foreign companies have been driven out and production has dropped to a 30-year low.

The resulting fiscal crisis has prompted the government to print more money, which has led to hyperinflation and a collapse of the currency.

It also means that the government cant import enough food and medicine to meet demand.

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Maduro has rejected economic reforms out of loyalty to socialism and because many government officials are allegedly getting rich off the economic distortions  through exchange rate scams and by selling scarce food on the black market.





Since 2015, more than 56,000 Venezuelans have sought refuge or residency in Brazil amid continuing political turmoil and economic collapse in their home country.

But the flood of migrants has severely stretched health and education services in the poor state of Roraima.

There is no point in welcoming Venezuelan immigrants if they are going to be subjected to equal or more degrading conditions here, said Judge Barreto.

Suely Campos, the Roraima state governor, welcomed the ruling and blamed the federal government for a total lack of support. Its us who are dealing with a social tragedy on our frontiers, Campos said in a statement.

Campos first requested Brazils supreme court to close the border, in a lawsuit which also asked the government to refund $49m her administration said it had spent on refugees.

On 1 August, she raised the stakes with a state decree ordering Venezuelans to show passports before accessing health and security services and directing police to deport any migrants who committed crimes.

The state said health attendances had increased 6,500% last year alone and crimes had increased 132% since 2015, and increase which it attributed to migrants.

But Sister Lage said that most migrants do not have passports so the decree effectively excluded migrants from receiving heathcare.

Prosecutors and Brazils Public Defence Office went to court to try and overturn the decree, arguing that immigrants entering Brazil in Roraima were in a situation of extreme vulnerability and that effectively banning them from accessing health services would create the risk of epidemics  especially as Roraima is currently battling a measles outbreak.



On Sunday, Judge Barreto agreed to suspend the decrees clauses on passports and deportation but also closed the border to Venezuelans  a request neither the Public Defence Office nor federal prosecutors had requested. They now plan to appeal.
PASADENA, Calif. (AP)  A legal challenge to the Trump administration's planned border wall Tuesday hinged on whether the state of California and environmental groups can even fight such a project in lower courts.

A three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals struggled with a law that gave the Homeland Security secretary broad authority to waive all laws to expedite constructing sections of border wall. The law also restricted some legal challenges to the Supreme Court.

Attorneys for the state and environmental organizations argued that the 2005 law had expired and the court should consider their claims that the federal government overstepped its authority and must comply with environmental laws.

At issue before a three-judge panel in Pasadena, California, is a 2005 law that gave the Homeland Security secretary broad authority to waive all legal requirements, including the National Environmental Policy Act, Clean Air Act and Endangered Species Act. Those laws require time-consuming reviews and are subject to prolonged legal challenges that can delay or even derail projects.

The case heard Tuesday is an appeal of a decision by U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel of San Diego, who sided with the administration in February. The president had repeatedly berated Curiel during the 2016 campaign over an unrelated case involving fraud allegations and now-defunct Trump University.

About 15 demonstrators gathered outside the courthouse Tuesday morning chanting, "Stand up, fight back" and carrying signs that said, "No walls in the wild" and "Freedom for immigrants."

California argued that the waiver authority expired in 2008, when Homeland Security satisfied congressional requirements at the time on how much wall to build. It was joined in the appeal by the Center for Biological Diversity, the Sierra Club, Defenders of Wildlife and Animal Legal Defense Fund.

"It was a truncated Congressional debate from 13 years ago," attorney Brian Segee of the Center for Biological Diversity, who did not argue the case, said outside court. "All the discussion was, 'We want to complete the San Diego wall.' Now all that has been translated to 'We have the authority to waive all laws forever and in perpetuity.'"

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The administration has issued three waivers in the last year, two to build in parts of California and one in part of New Mexico. President George W. Bush's administration issued the previous five waivers, allowing the government to quickly extend barriers to about one-third of the border.

In California, the government began replacing barriers on a 14-mile (23-kilometer) stretch in San Diego and a 2-mile (3-kilometer) stretch of Calexico. The waivers also cleared the way for it to build eight prototypes in San Diego to guide future designs.

Trump is seeking $25 billion over 10 years for the border wall and other border security technology and has held out the possibility of a government shutdown if Congress doesn't fund one of his signature campaign pledges. The administration received $1.6 billion this year and has requested the same amount in next year's budget, largely to build in Texas' Rio Grande Valley.

Legal challenges to border barriers have failed over the years amid national security concerns. The Congressional Research Service said in a report last year that it saw no legal impediments to construction if deemed appropriate for controlling the border.

___

Associated Press Writer Elliot Spagat in San Diego contributed to this report.




Five years ago, Yahoo Canada News did a series on the dying small towns of Canada. The stagnation was largely blamed on the exit of one industry or another from many of the places visited. One of the towns featured in that series was Smiths Falls, Ont., struggling to recover from the exit of chocolate maker Hersheys in 2007. At the time, residents said tourism was the answer to the towns economic woes. Little did they know the industry that would breath life back into Smiths Falls was cannabis.

Entering Smiths Falls today, the town is a distant cry from its struggles of 2013, and thats largely thanks to Tweed, one of the brands of Canopy Growth (WEED.TO).

Bruce Linton, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Canopy Growth, says he keeps tabs on how many new restaurants have sprung up around town in the last year or so as a measure of its economic success.

The current answer is four have started, says Linton proudly in an interview with Yahoo Canada Finance. And theyre all very good in a town that had, really, your choice between Dairy Queen, McDonalds, and a couple of rundown pizza joints. And now its coming up.

But as one of the biggest players in medical marijuana, and soon in the recreational marijuana industry, Canopy Growth is looking to do more than revitalize a town.

In some circles they would call it corporate social responsibility  I think thats a bunch of crap, because corporations are not socially responsible, says Linton. What they are is responsible to the future of the corporation and the potential earnings. But if youre actually long term thinking, you know that what you want to do is use everything you can thats local. Be as supportive and integrated as you can. Because this town was in desperate state when I bought the building.

When Linton started Tweed in 2014, he began with just 30 employees. His workforce grew to 300 by 2017. This year, its up to 800. And the company has 900 more job openings to fill. From PhDs to marketing leads to production workers, Canopy Growth is looking to fill positions not just at Tweed in Smiths Falls, but at its facilities across Canada.

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Cannabis plants are seen in the flowering room at the Canopy Growth facility in Smiths Falls, Ont. (Yahoo Canada Finance/Tori Floyd)

M&A? No way

While Canopy is looking to expand rapidly in terms of hiring, theres one area where the company is bucking the trend of other cannabis industry heavyweights: its not interested in any more mergers or acquisitions at this time.

I think if I acquired anybody thats out there, I would probably have to rip everything out theyve built and redo it our way, because weve built so much ourselves, says Linton. Basically, Id be acquiring an iPhone 2 when Ive already invented the iPhone 11.

Its in stark contrast to the recent actions of Aurora Cannabis (ACB.TO), which just closed its $3.2 billion acquisition of MedReleaf. The last acquisition by Canopy Growth was in early July, when it purchased cannabis supplier Hiku, which includes well-known Toronto-based cannabis retail brand Tokyo Smoke. The company is looking to find spaces where it isnt already fully present in order to reach a broader consumer base.

I think you will see as were doing with Hiku, acquisitions moving up, says Linton. You know, someday Ill probably buy a biotech company. And you say, well, why? Because Im not going to share our margins with the pharma company. Well just bake our own pharma company. Thats where were going.

Charles Taerk, President and CEO of Faircourt Asset Management Inc., says that its not a bad plan for Canopy to pull back from acquiring other companies for now.

This is an early-stage sector, and theres going to be more M&A activity, sayd Taerk. But mergers and acquisitions dont always necessarily work out. Theres some skepticism as to whether the Aurora takeovers of Cannimed and MedReleaf are going to pan out because there really hasnt been a lot of information provided by Aurora as to where the synergies, where the efficiencies are, how everything is going to be integrated.

Taerk explains that each of these big players has unique operational aspects, and he says Canopy Growth has become a good cultivator and processor on its own. It makes less sense to take over a company because they have square footage for more cultivation, since the cost to cultivate and generate capacity for more cultivation will be less integral as the market establishes.

Two Canopy Growth workers hold marijuana plants before the buds are removed in the trim room. (Yahoo Canada Finance/Tori Floyd)

Even as Canopy expands its footprint overseas, Linton says he doesnt currently see value in acquiring others for more square footage.

In Canada, I dont need any more capacity I think ever, says Linton. What I have to do is continually evolve from production, so that it becomes subordinated into being an ingredient. The conversation were having about production right now, in another 18 to 24 months, [competitors] will be saying well, we have production, and theyll be saying gosh I wish I had finished goods.'

Norman Levine, Managing Director for Portfolio Management Corp., agrees that Canopy has, based on speculation about how the recreational market will play out, positioned itself as best it can ahead of recreational marijuana legalization in Canada in October.

From a ready for rec[reational] perspective, Canopy is certainly well out in front. They have a combination of strengths, says Levine. First, the agreement both for equity and partnership on innovation with Constellation Brands, that was very early and well ahead of anyone else. Secondly, their current cultivation  not just that they have more cultivation than everyone else  they have been building up inventory, so theyre ready from a provincial supply standpoint that they have been winners in initial supply agreements, but they will also likely be winners when some of their competitors cant fulfill their supply obligations, or the second round, the six months after its legal.

If people dont have enough current capacity, heres Canopy with more than enough capacity to fill up where some provinces may be short.

Looking to what comes next

While legislation around the marijuana edibles market is still up in the air, many companies are betting big that beverages will be a hit with consumers when that legislation comes to pass. Molson recently entered into a deal with Hydropothecary to develop cannabis beverages. Earlier this year, both Aurora and Aphria (APH.TO) entered into deals with beverage producers to boost their presence in that market.

Canopy made a deal ahead of the rest of those companies, exchanging a 10 per cent stake in Canopy for a $245 million investment from alcohol supplier Constellation Brands.

Ive joked before, I think the entire reason we learned how to fashion clay and do pottery is they needed someone to store wine, says Linton with a laugh. Like, that wasnt about water, for sure.

And so I think the effect of that is its such a normalized social lubricant. I believe that when cannabinoids are the driver and not alcohol, people will say, I do have no problem finding enough calories elsewhere. Ill take the zero calorie mood modifierI think beverages done on a big scale are going to be hugely disruptive.

But Canopy isnt limiting itself to just cannabis-infused beverages. The companys research and development department is exploring various consumable options, but is keeping exactly what it has in store tightly under wraps for now. Based on what theyre researching, however, its safe to say theyre way beyond just pot brownies and marijuana-infused gummies.

Were going to make anything and everything thats lawful, says Linton. And we hope that [politicians] dont decide that gummy bears are a great idea, because thats just a tricky format to hide some bad oils. And its kind of weird format if youre trying to say we dont market to children.

Levine agrees that diversifying consumable product offerings is a smart plan, because no one knows what consumers will end up really adopting.

The larger companies should have a toe-hold in everything because they dont know whats going to work and what isnt going to work, says Levine. Just because theyre coming out with cannabis-infused beverages, they may be popular they may not be, you dont know. Some edible products may work, they may not. If youve got your toe in these things without committing too much to it, youre there if it works, but not everythings going to work just because it has cannabis in the name.

If somebody like Constellation Brands wants to pay you a humungous amount to produce cannabis-infused beverages, youd be crazy not to.

Not for the meek investor

With so much buzz around marijuana companies ahead of recreational legalization, many investors are curious whether they should take the plunge and put their money into one of the many cannabis companies out there now, including Canopy. But right now, investors need a pretty strong stomach to weather the ups and downs of some of the most volatile stocks on the TSX.

I have investors calling me asking why the stock went down three per cent today. Well, why did it go up five per cent the day before? says Linton.

If theres no tangible news, he says their guess is as good as his, and its just a matter of life for all publicly traded marijuana comapnies right now. Taerk says that at this stage, the volatility is to be expected, as investors arent quite sure what to make of companies like Canopy as they prepare for October 17.

A vacuum-sealed package of cannabis is seen in the vault at the Canopy Growth facility in Smiths Falls, Ont. (Yahoo Canada Finance/Tori Floyd)

[Canopys] growing quite quickly, theyre not yet profitable, so from a cash flow perspective, they are spending a lot of money, says Taerk. Some investors are worried that the cash burn may catch up with them. On the other side, theyve raised a lot of capital, and the cash burn is temporary in anticipation of when rec comes on stream and being able to significant revenue. Their one weakness would be their quarterly financial statements, but thats temporary in nature when youre looking at an early-stage sector.

But Levine says there are too many unknowns at this stage to confidently invest in any cannabis stocks.

I wouldnt do it, not now, says Levine. I preface this by saying marijuana stocks  which are sin stocks, like tobaco, alcohol and casinos  are usually great investments. The reason is theres a limited number of players, they have high margins, they have strong brands, and their customers are generally addicted to their product. As an investor, you can say with some certainty theyre going to grow.

But you dont have any certainty [with marijuana stocks] into any of the above what the sales are going to be. Youve got way too many companies chasing a market here, so there will be lots of losers. Until you know how things are going to sort out, you dont know what youre doing.

Linton, however, remains confident that while he cant speak to what his competitors are doing, his primary concern is what impact their choices will have on the marijuana industry as a whole.

Im more worried about if companies have falsely high market caps and I know what their actual production in sales will be over the next 12 months, Im more worried theyre going to implode and damage the sector, says Linton. So my principal worry is people who put out too many press releases and not enough productIm more worried about that frankly, than I am somebody passing us.

We dont particularly spend much time looking in the rear view mirror.

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
Seoul (AFP) - Archaeologists excavating a cave in South Korea have found evidence that suggests human beings were using sophisticated techniques to catch fish as far back as 29,000 years ago, much earlier than experts previously thought.

Carbon dating procedures on the fourteen limestone sinkers, unearthed in the eastern county of Jeongseon in June, have pushed back "the history of fishing by nets by some 19,000 years", Yonsei University Museum director Han Chang-gyun told AFP.

Previously, researchers had excavated sinkers -- stones used to weigh down nets for catching fish -- in Japan's Fukui Prefecture and South Korea's Cheongju city, but those discoveries were all dated back to the Neolithic Era and believed to be around 10,000 years old, Han said.

"This discovery suggests humans in the Upper Paleolithic era were actively catching fish for their diet", he added.

The limestone sinkers, each weighing between 14 to 52 grammes and with a diameter of 37 to 56 millimetres, had grooves carved into them so they could be tied to the bottom of nets and used to catch small fish such as minnows in shallow streams, he said.

Researchers also found fossilized bones belonging to fish and other animals, as well as stone tools and flakes, inside the Maedun cave, he said.

Prior to the South Korean find, the oldest fishing implements were believed to be fishing hooks, made from the shells of sea snails, that were found on a southern Japanese island and said to date back some 23,000 years.
By Joseph Ax

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (Reuters) - For many residents of Charlottesville, Virginia, last year's white nationalist rally shattered the city's carefully curated reputation as a progressive, idyllic place to live.

But for Nikuyah Walker, an activist who was elected mayor just three months later, the violent clashes only underscored deep racial and economic inequities that have long divided this picturesque college town. In her view, the rally has forced Charlottesville to confront its own complicated legacy.

"You can have three or four generations who are struggling, and that family has not been able to move out of poverty wages  that's a significant portion of Charlottesville," Walker, the city's first black female mayor, told Reuters outside City Hall. "And then you have this very wealthy community that loves and raves about it."

As Charlottesville prepares for the one-year anniversary this weekend, it is still agonizing over clashes last year in which one woman was killed when an Ohio man drove his car into a crowd of counter-protesters.

Some residents have argued that the vast majority of the marchers last year were from out of town, but Walker said that narrative ignores the city's broader problems.

She noted that the main instigators of the "Unite the Right" rally, Richard Spencer, who coined the term "alt-right" to describe the loose coalition of white nationalists, and Jason Kessler, a local blogger, graduated from the University of Virginia on the western side of town.

The rally was billed as a protest over the city council's plan to remove two Confederate statues from downtown parks. Last year, a judge blocked the city from taking down the statues, which are encircled by orange plastic fencing and are off-limits to residents.

Several officials including the police chief, the city manager and the city attorney left their positions after widespread criticism that Charlottesville had been ill-prepared to manage the hundreds of white nationalists who descended upon it, many armed with shields, clubs and other weapons.

Story continues

"We recognize that we have to earn the community's trust," said Brian Wheeler, the city's chief spokesman. "The way that we can best do that this year is learn from the mistakes."

Local and state police have vowed to have zero tolerance for any violence this weekend, in stark contrast with last year when some officers did not intervene to break up fights. Virtually the entire downtown will be closed to vehicles.

Police have said that they are preparing for the worst, even though Kessler, who organized last year's event, lost a bid to get a permit this year. Instead, he has received permission to rally outside the White House on Sunday and has said he will focus on Washington.

A CITY AT ODDS WITH ITSELF

The effects of last year's violence are still felt every day in Charlottesville.

City council meetings have frequently devolved into shouting matches. At a recent community outreach meeting where police officials detailed security plans for this weekend, residents asked one after another how they were supposed to trust the police after 2017.

"Charlottesville has had a tendency to self-congratulation; it's constantly in the magazines as the best place to live," said Reverend Will Peyton, who oversees St. Paul's Episcopal Church.

"The violence was perpetrated by outsiders, yes, but the response from the black community is like, 'Really, this isn't us? We don't have a problem here?' Because, of course, there's entrenched inequality and entrenched structural racism," Peyton said.

At the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center in downtown Charlottesville, an exhibit documents the struggle of black residents who fought for equal access to public education.

"I don't know that people understood that this narrative of progressive Charlottesville had flaws," said Andrea Douglas, the center's executive director. "Now those flaws have been exposed."

When Mayor Walker, 38, announced her run for city council last spring after years of activism on behalf of low-income residents, she adopted the motto "Unmasking the Illusion," aiming to dispel the notion that Charlottesville was a diverse, liberal utopia. She has focused her attention on issues like affordable housing and policing.

Last month, she joined residents on what they called a "civil rights pilgrimage" to the lynching museum in Montgomery, Alabama, bringing along soil from a site where a black Charlottesville man was lynched in 1898.

Reverend Tracy Howe Wispelwey, a local activist, said last year's rally was eye-opening for many in Charlottesville.

"You have a lot of white liberals who have not grappled with our history and want to dismiss it," she said. "That's just not truth."

(Reporting by Joseph Ax; Editing by Toni Reinhold)
Let's check out the Yahoo Finance charts of the day. Cigna (CI): Shares are up in early trade, at around .23%. Activist Carl Icahn went public with his opposition to Cigna's proposed $54 billion purchase of Express Scripts, saying that the health insurer is overpaying and that Amazon.com represents an "existential threat" to pharmacy benefit managers. Alibaba (BABA): Shares are up here, around 1.08%. Reuters reports that Alibaba will reportedly merge its food delivery units and raise funds for the combined business. GlaxoSmithKline (GSK): Shares up here, around 1.83%. The drugmaker has named Iain MacKay from global bank HSBC as its new chief financial office as of January 14, 2019. For more on today's big stock movers check out the Final Round, live at 3:55 p.m. ET, right here on Yahoo Finance.
BEIJING (Reuters) - Four workers were killed and nine were missing after an explosion at a small coal mine in China's Guizhou province on Monday night, state-owned Xinhua News reported on Tuesday citing local authorities. The incident happened at Zimujia coal mine, run by private-owned Pannan Coal Investment Co, in Panzhou city. The coal mine has designed annual capacity of 300,000 tonnes. Cause of explosion was unclear, while rescue work was underway, it said. Benchmark thermal coal futures soared as much as 5.5 percent to 622 yuan ($90.80) a tonne, their highest in 11 months, during early trade on Tuesday, as market expects more stringent inspections on coal mines across the country might lead to tight supply. The accident comes not long after a blast at an iron ore mining project in Liaoning that killed 11 people in June. According to Guizhou Energy Administration file, the coal mine was ordered to rectify on some safety issues during a safety inspection conducted by local authorities in late April. Pannan Coal cannot be reached for comment. Panzhou city government declined to comment. (Reporting by Muyu Xu and Aizhu Chen; Editing by Gopakumar Warrier)
Abidjan (AFP) - Ivory Coast's former first lady, Simone Gbagbo, who is serving a 20-year jail term, will be freed on Wednesday after President Alassan Ouattara granted her an amnesty, her lawyer said on Tuesday.

The wife of former president Laurent Gbagbo has spent seven years behind bars for her role in a wave of political violence that claimed several thousand lives in 2010-11.

On the eve of independence day, Ouattara had on Monday announced an amnesty for Simone Gbagbo and around 800 others in the name of national reconciliation.

Her attorney, Rodrigue Dadje, told AFP she would be "released tomorrow, after the judicial formalities have been completed."

She was "delighted to learn the news of her release," Dadje said.

Simone Gbagbo was convicted for "endangering state security" for her part in post-electoral violence and sentenced in 2015.

She had been implicated in the 2011 shelling of a market in an Abidjan district that supported Ouattara and for belonging to a "crisis cell" that allegedly coordinated attacks by the armed forces and militias in support of her husband.

Laurent Gbagbo has been in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague for seven years. He has been on trial since 2016 for alleged crimes against humanity.

In February 2012, the ICC also issued a warrant for Simone Gbagbo's arrest.

In 2016, Ouattara said he would "no longer send" Ivorian nationals to the court, as the country now had a "functioning justice system."

About 3,000 people died in the turmoil that erupted in Abidjan -- once one of Africa's most cosmopolitan cities -- after presidential elections in November 2010 when Laurent Gbagbo refused to accept defeat to Ouattara, his bitter rival.

The conflict left a legacy of political friction that endures today. The lack of national reconciliation has been seen by many observers as the biggest mark against Ouattara's record.

Story continues

Among others granted amnesties were former defence minister Lida Kouassi -- a key Gbagbo ally -- who was sentenced this year to 15 years for conspiracy, and former construction minister Assoa Adou, jailed in 2017 for four years.

Around 500 of those named have already been released provisionally from detention, the president said. They will have their criminal records erased.

The other 300 will be released "soon", he added, without giving any dates.
Abidjan (AFP) - Ivory Coast's former first lady, Simone Gbagbo, who is serving a 20-year jail term, will be freed on Wednesday after President Alassane Ouattara granted her an amnesty, her lawyer said on Tuesday.

But Ouattara's amnesty of around 800 people, including Simone Gbagbo, was slammed by rights groups as "unacceptable" and disrespectful to their victims.

The wife of former president Laurent Gbagbo has spent seven years behind bars for her role in a wave of political violence that claimed several thousand lives in 2010-11.

On the eve of independence day, Ouattara had on Monday announced an amnesty for Simone Gbagbo, 69, and around 800 others in the name of national reconciliation.

Her attorney, Rodrigue Dadje, told AFP she would be "released tomorrow, after the judicial formalities have been completed".

She was "delighted to learn the news of her release," Dadje said.

But a group of 11 national and international rights groups on Tuesday described the mass amnesty as "unacceptable".

"There should be no amnesty for those responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity and other serious human rights violations," said the statement by Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, the International Federation for Human Rights and eight other groups.

"To decide, after seven years of judicial proceedings involving hundreds of victims and alleged perpetrators, that only 60 people will face justice is not only an arbitrary decision but will be an act of disrespect to victims," their statement added.

- Lack of national reconciliation -

About 3,000 people died in the turmoil that erupted in Abidjan -- once one of Africa's most cosmopolitan cities -- after presidential elections in November 2010 when Laurent Gbagbo refused to accept defeat to Ouattara, his bitter rival, after a decade in power.

The conflict left a legacy of political friction that endures today. The lack of national reconciliation has been seen by many observers as the biggest mark against Ouattara's record.

Story continues

Simone Gbagbo, who was first detained without trial after her arrest in 2011, was convicted for "endangering state security" and sentenced in 2015.

She had been implicated in the 2011 shelling of a market in an Abidjan district that supported Ouattara and for belonging to a "crisis cell" that allegedly coordinated attacks by the armed forces and militias in support of her husband.

Laurent Gbagbo has been in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague for seven years. He has been on trial since 2016 for alleged crimes against humanity.

In February 2012, the ICC also issued a warrant for Simone Gbagbo's arrest. But in 2016, Ouattara said he would "no longer send" Ivorian nationals to the court, as the country now had a "functioning justice system."

- Electoral commission reform welcomed -

The Gbagbos remain well-liked within the Ivorian Popular Front, the party they co-founded in the 1980s which has since split into two factions.

"This is a big step towards reconciliation. But we should go further with the release of soldiers and Laurent Gbagbo, who remains the crucial element for reconciliation," said Georges Armand Ouegnin, president of the opposition coalition Together for Democracy and Sovereignty.

The president also announced a reform of the Independent Electoral Commission, which has come under fire for being unequal.

The commission is currently made up of eight members representing the government and four representing the opposition.

Civil society organisations welcomed the move which they said would ease political tensions, with local polls due in October and a presidential election in 2020.

Ouattara said he hoped "the next elections would be inclusive and without violence".

Among others granted amnesties were former defence minister Lida Kouassi -- a key Gbagbo ally -- who was sentenced this year to 15 years for conspiracy, and former construction minister Assoa Adou, jailed in 2017 for four years.

Around 500 of those named have already been released provisionally from detention, the president said. They will have their criminal records erased.

The other 300 will be released "soon", he added, without giving any dates.
Bogota (AFP) - Colombia's new President Ivan Duque took office Tuesday, with no shortage of tough issues to tackle, from heightened tensions with neighboring Venezuela to the lingering difficulties of peace-building with the nation's rebel groups.

The right-wing Duque, who is just 42 years old, succeeds Juan Manuel Santos -- and could work to undo the deal his predecessor reached with leftist FARC guerrillas to end a half-century of conflict.

Wearing a sash in the country's national colors, Duque took the oath of office in Bolivar Square in historic Bogota in the presence of several regional leaders including Mexico's Enrique Pena Nieto and Ecuador's Lenin Moreno.

In his inaugural address, he said he would take steps to fix "structural flaws" in the deal with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), without offering concrete details.

"We will deploy corrective measures to ensure that the victims get the truth, proportional justice, reparations -- and no repetitions" of the past, said Duque, a lawyer by training and a former senator.

Duque said he would also take a tougher tack in talks with the country's last active rebel group, the Marxist ELN, to ensure that a "credible process" is put in place so that that the group ceases all criminal activity within a set time limit.

Colombia's political left, defeated in June elections, protested as Duque took office, demanding justice for the more than 330 rights activists murdered since the December 2016 peace accord with the FARC.

- Tense ties with Caracas -

Observers agree that Duque's success will depend in large part on his connection to popular former president Alvaro Uribe (2002-2010), who handpicked the political novice to help the right -- which opposed the FARC deal -- regain power.

"His mentor's situation and relations with Venezuela are the keys" to Duque's presidency, political scientist Diana Avellaneda from Javeriana University told AFP.

Story continues

Relations with Caracas took a dive over the weekend when Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro claimed to have been the victim of an "assassination" attempt -- and put the blame on Santos, "ultra right-wing" domestic opponents and the US.

Bogota called the accusation "absurd."

Duque looks set to stand up to Colombia's neighbor to the east, demanding "free elections" following a May poll that saw Maduro re-elected, which was boycotted by Venezuela's opposition.

He hinted at a tough line against Maduro, saying Colombia "will reject any sort of dictatorship on the continent."

The neighbors share a 2,200-kilometer (1,400 miles) long border that is hard to police.

Bogota has accused Caracas of harboring Marxist rebels, while hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans have crossed the border to escape food and medicine shortages, failing public services and hyperinflation in their homeland.

If Duque "starts answering everything Maduro says... he will add fuel to the propaganda and political fire to keep ratcheting up the tension," said international relations expert Jairo Velasquez.

The analyst added that the new Colombian leader could become Venezuela's "enemy, real or imagined."

- Peace with rebels? Not so fast -

At home, Duque's firebrand rhetoric has increased tension and rocked already fragile relations with rebels, both former and current.

He has long criticized the FARC deal as being too lenient in allowing former rebels accused of atrocities to serve as lawmakers.

Ending 50 years of conflict that has cost the lives of 260,000 people and left more than seven million displaced is no easy undertaking.

But Duque -- with Uribe's backing -- has made it clear he thinks the deal is deeply flawed.

Meanwhile, Santos -- who won a Nobel Peace Prize for his work on the FARC deal -- admitted defeat in his bid to negotiate a ceasefire with the ELN, despite making "significant progress."

Duque made it clear that further progress would not come easy.

- Political wrangling at home -

While his tough stance on peace may give Duque headaches upon taking office, he could also suffer from the rug supporting his political ambitions being wrenched out from under him.

As the hand-picked choice of Uribe, he enjoys considerable support from the powerful Democratic Center party his mentor launched.

But the 66-year-old Uribe, now a senator, is accused of witness interference and faces a Supreme Court investigation, and an uncertain political future.

At least Duque can call on strong regional ties amidst a recent upsurge in the fortunes of the political right on the continent, notably in Argentina, Chile and Peru. Brazil may follow suit in October.

But in addition to woes with Venezuela to the east, all is not serene on Colombia's southern border, where Ecuador has been angered over the drug-trafficking violence spilling across its frontier.

In Colombia, some 209,000 hectares (516,500 acres) of land are used to grow coca, the principal ingredient used to manufacture cocaine. Colombia is the largest cocaine producer in the world.
AT&T Park was briefly on fire Monday, and were not talking about the San Francisco Giants bats. Prior to Mondays game against the Houston Astros, a concession stand caught on fire.

Concession stand at AT&T Park catches on fire

Video from KNBR shows the fire from a distance, the smoke on the concourse and the concession stand after the fire was put out.

Concession stand at AT&T Park catches on fire before #SFGiants vs. Astros pic.twitter.com/wf9SUVLE4c  KNBR (@KNBR) August 7, 2018

Reporters could see smoke from the press box and while on the field.

Heavy smoke at AT&T Park. pic.twitter.com/qX6sgEQHPu  Janie McCauley (@JanieMcCAP) August 6, 2018

Theres a concession stand on fire at AT&T Park. Pray for the chicken strips. pic.twitter.com/SCx8hslgeL  Alex Pavlovic (@PavlovicNBCS) August 6, 2018

While video of the fire looked scary, no injuries were reported. The blaze was put out before fire fighters arrived at the park. The game started on time despite the issue. The cause of the fire is still unknown.

(Yahoo Sports MLB H/N: FTW)

A fire broke out at AT&T Park before Mondays Giants game. (AP Photo)

      

Chris Cwik is a writer for Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at christophercwik@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!

More from Yahoo Sports:

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The lawyer for Courtney Smith said in a statement Tuesday that Courtney was not contacted by Ohio State University regarding the domestic abuse allegations against Zach Smith in 2015.

Zach Smith, the schools former wide receivers coach, was fired July 23, days after Courtney filed for a protection order against him and hours after domestic abuse allegations from 2009 and 2015 were revealed. Ohio State coach Urban Meyer is currently on paid administrative leave as the school investigates the way the 2015 accusation was handled within the football program.

As her attorney, I can tell you that Ms. Smith is cautiously optimistic that the Ohio State Universitys investigative committee will determine if proper reporting protocol was followed upon learning of the ongoing abuse allegations against Zach Smith, attorney Julia Leveridge said. We believe the University must prioritize the safety and well-being of others above all else. While the Ohio State University has never contacted Ms. Smith to discuss these allegations, she will fully cooperate with the universitys current investigation.

Statement from Julia Leveridge, counsel for Courtney Smith: pic.twitter.com/X2rAXhKg1O  Kyle Rowland (@KyleRowland) August 7, 2018

The 2015 allegation happened while Zach Smith was at Ohio State and he told multiple media outlets last week that he was on the road recruiting and was told by Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith to come back to Columbus after the accusation was made to police.

Zach Smith wasnt charged in either 2009 or 2015. Courtney Smith told Stadium that she believed Meyer knew of the 2015 allegations and that she told Meyers wife Shelley and the wives of other Ohio State staffers about the accusation.

Meyer initially denied that he knew anything about the 2015 accusation before issuing a statement Friday that reversed course. Meyer blamed his initial lies on inadequate preparation in the statement and said he reported the 2015 accusation to the proper channels.

Story continues

A sad rally with 200 people was held in Columbus on Monday to support Meyer. Many of the attendees at the rally had signs blaming ESPN, a media company that has had little role in the original reporting of the saga.

Courtney Smiths attorney also felt the need to set the record straight about her client, including in the statement that Courtney was not paid for her interviews with Stadium, has tried to press charges against Zach and that Courtney has never committed a criminal offense.

      

Nick Bromberg is a writer for Yahoo Sports.

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New York (AFP) - The US Justice Department attacked Monday a court ruling that allowed June's $85 billion mega-merger between AT&T and Time Warner to go forward, saying a federal judge had relied on faulty economics.

Federal prosecutors are asking a US appeals court to reverse the decision, which they say ignored the fact that American consumers are likely to pay hundreds of millions more per year for television services.

The June decision by US District Judge Richard Leon had dealt a stinging defeat to the Justice Department and handed a total victory to the companies.

But, in a brief filed Monday with the court, the agency said Leon had ignored economic theory by finding that Time Warner would not enjoy greater bargaining power over pay-TV distributors once the merger was complete -- possibly withholding highly popular content from HBO, CNN and others in order to extract higher fees from distributors.

"The court agreed that Time Warner enjoyed bargaining leverage before the merger but it illogically and erroneously concluded that Time Warner will have no increased leverage post-merger because blackouts are 'infeasible' so Time Warner cannot credibly threaten them," the brief said.

"The court's reasoning makes no sense, rendering clearly erroneous its analysis of the evidence on increased bargaining leverage."

The case had been closely watched as setting a benchmark for other big corporate mergers in the media and communications sector.

- Competing with Netflix -

In his original ruling, Leon had said the case fell short on all counts and urged the government not to lodge an appeal that would cause "irreparable" harm to the two companies after a year and a half of delay.

He maintained that the government's claim that pay TV costs would rise from the tieup was based on "speculative" logic and that its study from an expert witness was contradicted by other evidence from the government.

Story continues

The deal brings together AT&T's networks and its DirecTV subscription service with the media assets of Time Warner.

The companies have argued anti-trust concerns are unjustified because they are not in the industrial sectors.

AT&T has promised to let the Time Warner properties, renamed Warner Media, operate independently until 2019.

AT&T and Time Warner argue they need more scale to compete with online rivals like Netflix and Amazon, as well as with Silicon Valley giants like Apple, Facebook and Google, which are expanding in the rapidly evolving sector.

President Donald Trump had previously denounced the AT&T deal, vowing that his administration would block the merger because it would concentrate corporate power.

This fueled speculation that Trump could be retaliating due to critical coverage of his administration from news broadcaster CNN, a Time Warner property.
The mural in Dallas of Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott in the iconic image from the Academy Award-winning film Get Out has been already been defaced.

The mural popped up on Friday in the Trinity Groves area of Dallas shortly after Prescott spoke about his stance on protesting during the national anthem  which he said he would never do, as he doesnt think thats the time or the venue to do so.

Those comments inspired Arlington, Texas, native Trey Wilder to create the mural, something he told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram took only eight cans of spray paint and just three hours to do.

Naturally, the mural garnered national attention almost instantly.

By Sunday night, though, that mural was already defaced. Large portions of the mural had been painted over  including Prescotts eyes.

24 hours after this mural of Dak Prescott was painted over, still no signs it will be changed back. More details @KRLD pic.twitter.com/enScYFWVUh  Kristin Weisell (@KristinWeisKRLD) August 6, 2018

Wilder has used that space at the Fabrication Yard to create art before  previously profiling LeBron James and Dirk Nowitzki  and said he knew that there was a chance that this mural wouldnt last long. After all, it is the side of a building that is open to anyone to create art on.

Story continues

But, perhaps most importantly, Wilder already got his point across.

You know what, its already done its job, Wilder told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. So, it really didnt matter. Besides, thats what happens at the (Fabrication) Yard.

Prescott was asked about the mural on Thursday at the teams training camp in Oxnard, California, and was pretty quiet about it.

Everybody is umm Prescott said, pausing. Everybody has their own opinion.

While Wilder  who works as a freelance artist in the Dallas area  is a Cowboys fan himself, he said the mural is simply his reaction to Prescotts comments on the national anthem.

Honestly, I know hes a superstar, but Im not scared of Dak Prescott, Wilder told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram last week. But like in the movie, maybe [the piece] will be a flash for him. I think, with that platform, it was just weird how he dismissed the whole situation, especially being a black man himself.

The mural in Dallas featuring Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott in the iconic image from Get Out has already been defaced just days after it was created. (Getty Images)

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Stockholm (AFP) - Denmark's largest lender Danske Bank on Tuesday said it was complying with Danish prosecutors' investigation into long-standing allegations that it was involved in laundering $8.3 billion through its Estonian branch.

State Prosecutor for Serious Economic and International Crime (SOIK), Morten Niels Jakobsen, said Monday Danske Bank was being investigated and prosecutors would examine whether charges would be pressed.

"Due to the very serious nature and scope of the case, we have followed it for a long time," Jakobsen said in a statement.

He added that the case "has long been highly prioritised" and that "several police reports have been received against Danske Bank in this case."

"We have a good and constructive dialogue on an ongoing basis with the authorities, and we will be at the service of SOIK if it needs further clarification on specific matters," Flemming Pristed, Danske Bank's chief counsel told AFP in an e-mail.

Danske Bank has been at the centre of a financial scandal since Danish daily Berlingske last year claimed that it had been behind the laundering of around $3.9 billion of dirty money from a string of Eastern European countries.

But after receiving bank statements from 20 companies with accounts in Danske Bank's Estonian branch between 2007 and 2015, the paper reported in early July that the real figure was actually more than twice that.

- 'Complex network' -

The bank statements from 20 companies at Danske Bank are linked to a fraud case exposed by the Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, who was jailed for revealing high-ranking Russian officials involvement in stealing massive tax payments from several companies, including the investment fund Hermitage Capital.

Magnitsky died in 2009 aged 37 after being held for a year and denied medical care.

Bill Browder, CEO of Hermitage Capital and Magnitsky's former client who was kicked out of Russia for exposing corruption at the largest state owned companies, has spent nine years tracking money laundering in the nation.

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He said the money was laundered at Danske Bank's Estonian branch after travelling through "a complex network of sham companies and money laundering banks" in Moldova, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Ukraine.

Danske Bank has acknowledged that its control over the Estonian branch has not been good enough and launched its own investigation into the matter last year. The results were expected in September.

The group finds itself in the company of other major European banks that have been ensnared in massive laundering scandals in recent years including France's BNP Paribas and Germany's Deutsche Bank.
Defense Department bans geolocation features on tech devices due to security risk originally appeared on abcnews.go.com

The Department of Defense is prohibiting personnel from using geolocation features on their devices while serving in certain locations after concerns that the information transmitted from such devices was jeopardizing the security of American forces around the world, including those deployed in classified or sensitive areas.

The new policy, which is effective immediately, follows reports from earlier this year that some wearable electronic devices, like the popular Fitbit, can convey users' GPS coordinates in the form of publicly available online maps that display the most frequently trafficked routes of users who allowed their location to be shared.

"The rapidly evolving market of devices, applications, and services with geolocation capabilities presents a significant risk to the Department of Defense personnel on and off duty, and to our military operations globally," the department said in a statement on Monday. "These geolocation capabilities can expose personal information, locations, routines, and numbers of Department personnel, and potentially create unintended security consequences and increased risk to the joint force and mission."

GPS data shared by fitness apps has not compromised location of US troops: Pentagon

In January, a 20-year old Australian student named Nathan Ruser was exploring the online maps from Strava's Global Heatmap when he found the location of U.S. troops inside Syria.

"The biggest concerns with the data is firstly it allows an unprecedented look at the geographic build of a lot of these bases," Ruser told ABC News in January. "You can see the supply lines, you can see the patrol routes in some cases, and you can see the infrastructure within the bases. But more than that, one of the most important and disturbing elements of the map is that its possible to establish an understanding of how the base works."

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Journalists quickly started using the Global Heatmap to identify what they believed to be the locations of other U.S. personnel, including a suspected CIA base near Mogadishu, Somalia, and U.S. troops operating in the Sahel region of Africa.

PHOTO: Data released by GPS tracking company Strava in November 2017 shows where the users of fitness devices are around the world, including Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan, as shown in this screenshot. (Strava)

At the time, the Pentagon insisted that the classified or sensitive locations of U.S. service members had not been compromised by the data. But Defense Secretary James Mattis immediately ordered a review of the Pentagon's policies to see if there needed to be additional guidance or a new policy altogether.

The ban, announced on Monday, prohibits Department of Defense personnel "from using geolocation features and functionality on government and non-government-issued devices, applications, and services while in locations designated as operational areas."

Operational areas mostly consist of sensitive overseas locations where U.S. personnel are deployed.

PHOTO: GPS tracking company Strava released an interactive map in November 2017 that showed where the users of fitness devices are around the world. (Strava)

Applicable devices include fitness trackers, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and related software applications, according to a copy of the policy memo sent from Deputy Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan to top DoD leadership last week. Shanahan's memo also gave the military's combatant commanders guidance on how to seek authorization for the use of geolocation features should they deem it necessary.

Notably, the policy's language allows service members to continue tracking their workouts on a device like a Fitbit, as long as the geolocation feature is turned off.

Pentagon spokesperson Col. Rob Manning told reporters on Monday that the new policy ensures "we're not giving the enemy an unfair advantage," while at the same time "keeping pace with technology."

"It's a necessary evolution," he added.

Those who violate the ban on geolocation features will be dealt with on a case by case basis depending on the severity of the infraction, Manning said.
(Reuters) - Two men with pickaxes have tried and failed to remove U.S. President Donald Trump's star from the Hollywood Walk of Fame but now it is West Hollywood City Council's turn.

The councilors voted unanimously on Monday evening for getting rid of the brass and terrazzo star, embedded in the landmark stretch of a tourist-thronged Los Angeles sidewalk.

The vote is largely symbolic: the council has no jurisdiction over the Walk of Fame in neighboring Hollywood, and voted only to urge the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which runs the attraction, to remove it.

The star has become the setting for various anti-Trump protests since the maverick Republican announced his presidential run in 2015, and has been pulverized twice by men with heavy tools, only to be swiftly repaired.

In passing its resolution, which was announced by West Hollywood Mayor John Duran, the council said the man honored by the star does not reflect the values of West Hollywood, one of the country's most liberal corners.

The resolution cited allegations by several women who claim that Trump sexually harassed them, which he has denied. It also pointed out his policy, recently scrapped, of splitting up asylum-seeking migrant families at the U.S. border with Mexico.

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has never removed a star from the Walk of Fame, which honors celebrities from the entertainment industry, and has flatly rebuffed calls to strip the honor from any of the recent spate of powerful men accused of sexual misconduct.

"As of now, there are no plans to remove any stars from the Hollywood Walk of Fame," Leron Gubler, the chamber president, said in a statement, according to NBC News. The council's request would be considered at the chamber's next meeting, he said.

A committee considers nominations once a year for celebrities to be added to the Walk of Fame, and currently charges the nominee's sponsor $40,000 for the honor.

Trump's star was added in 2007 in recognition of his television work prior to his entry into politics, including his hosting of the NBC show "The Apprentice" and his producing of the Miss Universe beauty pageants.

(Reporting by Jonathan Allen in New York; Editing by; Frank McGurty and David Gregorio)
A confrontation in Charlottesville, Va., between alt-right demonstrators and counterprotesters. (Photo: Frontline/Edu Bayer)

Remember the deadly riot in Charlottesville, Va., the one that left one woman dead and scores injured in the wake of neo-Nazi violence? Were coming up on the first anniversary of that nightmare  the Charlottesville tragedy occurred on Aug. 12, 2017  and so the new PBS Frontline documentary Documenting Hate: Charlottesville is both timely and freshly informative. Its anti-star is a racist, anti-Semitic hate-group member whos also a U.S. Marine, and hes mighty glad Donald Trump is in the White House saying things like both sides are to blame.

That Marine, Vasillios Pistolis, a private first class, is also an enthusiastic member of the Rise Above Movement, or RAM, in which Pistoliss first-class military training is deployed to beat young women and men who are counterprotesting against racist groups. We see him doing some righteous pummeling, and then bragging online about kicking demonstrator Emily Gorcenski in the head. Gorcenski is interviewed by A.C. Thompson during this co-production by Frontline and ProPublica, which airs Tuesday night.

Gorcenski is shocked that Pistolis, as a member of the military, is so relaxed about admitting his crime. (Pistolis, Ive read, was recently kicked out of the military for his behavior.) But as another interviewee, white-supremacist expert Lowell Smith, says here, theres been a huge increase in extreme right-wing violence. Smith says the past two years have seen the biggest, most frightening increase in neo-Nazi violence that hes witnessed in 30 years of chronicling the subject. Its another indication of the tacit approval of previously-disapproved-of beliefs that President Trump has let loose upon this great country.

While Documenting Hate suffers a bit from Thompsons oh-my-goodness, faux-naive narration, it has a lot of valuable information about the culture of these disgusting groups, and it interviews the hearty souls who are devoting a lot of time to studying and documenting their current prevalence. Thompson also tries to give camera time to the thugs themselves, but folks like Pistolis tend to button up when a camera and microphone are placed in their faces. Theres some understandable worry that more violence will occur on the anniversary of the Charlottesville event, Aug. 12. Lets hope the president isnt planning to hold one of his rallies there.

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Documenting Hate: Charlottesville airs Tuesday on PBS. Check your local listings.

Watch: Spike Lee on how his new film, BlacKkKlansman, is connected to Charlottesville:



Read more from Yahoo Entertainment:
A Rhode Island bride was upstaged at her own wedding when her beloved dog wore a gown and veil of her own.

As new bride Danielle Brien left the Cranston church with her husband, she was surprised to see their pup, Gia, dashing over to them.

Gia was in wedding attire of her own, a surprise orchestrated by Brien's new husband, Christopher Lucca.

I thought it was amazing  the bride looked so surprised," said photographer Lori Ann Navarro in an interview with Caters News.

Navarro runs a pet boarding facility, Live Bark Love Pet Services, and was taking care of Gia during the wedding.

When Lucca said he wanted their pet to be involved during the big day, Navarro was happy to step in and help, dressing up Gia in her own sparkly wedding gown and veil.

It was my first time taking a dog to surprise their owner at their wedding, she said. It made me think I should offer this service to all my clients getting married.

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Don't count on it. (Photo: Bloomberg via Getty Images)

There is a saying attributed to various wise men: Never make predictions, especially about the future. Allow me to tempt fate and offer some musings about the 2020 election and Americas democratic future.

The Republicans

I will be amazed if Donald Trump is the Republican nominee. The water around him is rising fast, and he is likely to be long gone by 2020, either via impeachment or resignation in a deal that spares him prosecution.

Trumps Sunday morning tweet admitted that a June 2016 Trump Tower meeting involving campaign aides and a Kremlin-linked lawyer was designed to get information on an opponent.

Fake News reporting, a complete fabrication, that I am concerned about the meeting my wonderful son, Donald, had in Trump Tower. This was a meeting to get information on an opponent, totally legal and done all the time in politics - and it went nowhere. I did not know about it!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 5, 2018

The tweet undercut a lie that Donald Trump Jr. told in July 2017 when he said that the meeting had been primarily about the adoption of Russian children. That lie was cooked up in close consultation with Trump senior.

In a recent New Yorker post, Adam Davidson details just how Trumps no collusion story has fallen apart, in part due to his own impulsive failure to keep his lies straight.

As Davidson summarizes it:

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All of this is more than enough to justify an obstruction of justice charge, a prime ground for impeachment. And it should be more than enough to cause Republican defenders to distance themselves from Trump. As special counsel Robert Mueller ferrets out more and more detail, a panicky Trump gets crazier and crazier. He will likely do himself in.

When Trump goes, dont expect Vice President Mike Pence to be the 2020 nominee either. Pence is a famously inept politician, who was on track to be defeated for re-election as the Republican governor of Indiana  quite a trick.

The hardcore Trump base will be furious if (when) Trump is forced out. If Pence succeeds Trump, there will be a free-for-all, with some candidates running as the true successor to Trump and others trying to reclaim a sane Republican Party.

The latter could include moderates John Kasich, governor of Ohio, who is already positioning himself for a run; Maryland governor Larry Hogan; and Massachusetts governor Charlie Baker. Their claim to success is that they got elected as Republicans in normally Democratic states. Their problem is that the electorate in Republican primaries is far to their right.

The former could include any number of frothing at the mouth members of the House Freedom Caucus, plus of course Pence. So my bet is that the Republican nominee will be someone other than Trump, and will be presiding over a badly fractured party. What a gift to Democrats!

The Democrats

Two of the front-runners for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, Se. Kirsten Gillibrand and Sen. Elizabeth Warren. (Photo: Tom Williams via Getty Images)

The entire Democratic pack is running to the left, because thats where the grassroots energy is. Even Kirsten Gillibrand is trying to position herself to the left of Elizabeth Warren. One can debate whether the formerly centrist Gillibrand has had a sincere conversion or whether she is an opportunistic weathervane. But her stances say a lot about where the Democratic weather is.

Nobody has officially declared, of course, but as a splendid profile of Warren in New York magazine explains, Warren is increasingly the favorite of the activist party base and a front-runner to be the nominee.

Another likely finalist is Cory Booker. If Bernie Sanders goes again, he could be a third finalist.

Joe Biden is prominently mentioned, but I dont buy it. He is almost as old as Bernie. Biden will turn 78 in November 2020, when Sanders will be 79. Biden is loved by the pundit class, but in two previous primary runs, he lost badly.

If I had to place money on it, Id bet that Warren will be the nominee and that Sanders wont run. If Sanders and Warren get into a slugfest and divide the left, a more centrist economic candidate who is left on social issues like Booker could win.

What About Nancy Pelosi?

We haven't seen the last of Speaker Pelosi. (Photo: Win McNamee via Getty Images)

Should Democrats take back control of the House in this years midterms, there is movement among backbenchers in the House Democratic Caucus to replace Pelosi as prospective Speaker with a younger leader who is less of a lightning rod for Republican caricature. There are three problems.

First, the other members of the senior Democratic leadership are of Pelosis generation. The Whip, Steny Hoyer, at 79, is older then Pelosi. Joe Crowley, the Caucus chair, was defeated in a primary by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Second, even though some Democratic candidates have pledged not to vote for Pelosi for speaker in order to take that issue off the table, she has been a very effective leader and there is a great deal of loyalty to her. When Ohio Democrat Tim Ryan challenged Pelosi for leader in 2017, Pelosi won overwhelmingly, 134 to 63.

Third, there is no consensus candidate among back-benchers to succeed Pelosi. Ryan would not do much better if he challenged Pelosi again. She might lose a couple of dozen votes from newly elected Democrats, but thats not sufficient to topple her. And many newly elected Democrats will be women and progressives  like Pelosi.

My bet is that there will be an agreement in the caucus to give Pelosi one more term as Speaker in exchange for her agreement to step down after 2020. And then her successor will be someone not in the current top leadership ranks, but a committee chair or other second-tier leadership figure in their 40s or 50s.

As for the midterms? A year ago, I bet that Democrats would pick up 54 House seats. They may not gain quite that many, but they should comfortably take back the House.

A Close Run Thing

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If American democracy survives President Donald Trump, it will have been a close run thing. (Photo: Bloomberg via Getty Images)

After the Battle of Waterloo, the victorious Duke of Wellington described his victory as the nearest run thing you ever saw in your life. The remark has often been rendered as a close run thing.

The appointment and survival of Mueller has been a close run thing. Had Attorney General Jeff Sessions not recused himself, had Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein not been committed to the rule of law, had Sessions not refused to buckle under Trumps taunts and threats, and had just enough senior Republican Trump allies in Congress not warned Trump to keep his hands off Sessions and Rosenstein, Mueller would have been done for.

If American democracy survives Trump, it will have been a close run thing. At the risk of making the most out-on-a-limb prediction of all, I think that it will.

So, who actually said, Never make predictions, especially about the future? The expression has been attributed to figures as varied as Albert Einstein, Niels Bohr, Mark Twain, Yogi Berra and Casey Stengel. Alas, the original is lost to the mists of time.

It turns out that getting the past right is almost as hard as getting the future right.



Robert Kuttner is co-editor of The American Prospect and a professor at Brandeis Universitys Heller School. His new book is Can Democracy Survive Global Capitalism?



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At least two people have died and scores have been injured after a major explosion left a bridge partially collapsed on a highway near Bologna in Italy.

Police said between 60 and 70 people were injured, some with serious burns, after a tanker truck carrying flammable materials was in a traffic accident.

Some people were reportedly hit by flying glass as windows shattered in nearby buildings.

Italian police said between 60 and 70 people had been injured, some with severe burns, in the midday accident on a major highway north of the city.

An aerial view of the explosion on a motorway near Bologna, Italy (Picture: AP)

Italys firefighters tweeted that they have sent multiple rescue and emergency squads, including one from their urban search and rescue team.

Italian news channel Sky TG24 reported that some of the injured people had been hit by flying glass when windows in nearby buildings exploded.

Officials did not immediately know what kind of explosives were in the tanker, but the news agency ANSA said it was liquefied petroleum gas.

The explosion reportedly came after a traffic accident. Videos show flames shooting up in the air after the explosion, replaced later by a thick black cloud of smoke.

Aerial photos showed a gaping hole in the raised highway next to the tanker.

Firefighters work on the motorway after an accident caused a large explosion near Bologna, Italy (Picture: Reuters)

Firefighters captured the aftermath of the explosion on camera (Picture: AP)

MOST POPULAR ON YAHOO NEWS UK

Police closed the motorway and said in a tweet: Due to an accident on the Autostrada, an explosion occurred with the consequent fire at Via Marco Emilio Lepido.

Circulation compromised, not only on the motorway, but also in the Borgo Panigale area.

Italian television channel Sky TG24 said the flames fell to the lower level, setting off secondary explosions in a car park below.

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Firefighters said the flames were extinguished some three hours after the explosion.

Authorities said a major highway junction had been closed north of the city due to the accident.

The junction connects two major highways linking northern Italy with the Adriatic coast, a popular destination as Italy heads into its major summer holiday next week.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Dubai-based port operator DP World says it has bought Denmark-based Unifeeder Group for some $764 million.

DP World made the announcement in a statement on Tuesday, saying it purchased the container and shortsea network from the Nordic Capital Fund and other shareholders.

DP World called Unifeeder "an important and growing" network in Europe serving both deep-sea hubs and other markets.

DP World says the sale is expected to close in the fourth quarter of this year.

DP World operates some 80 terminals in over 40 countries. It is majority owned by the government of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, one of country's seven emirates.
CHICAGO (Reuters) - Eleven U.S. passengers who survived an Aeromexico crash in the northern Mexican state of Durango on July 31 filed lawsuits against the airline in Chicago on Monday, according to a statement by Chicago-based attorneys Corboy & Demetrio. The Mexico City-bound Embraer 190 passenger jet smashed into scrubland near the runway shortly after take-off during what passengers have described as strong winds, hail and rain. All 103 passengers and crew survived by evacuating from the plane before it caught fire. At least 65 passengers aboard Aeromexico Flight 2341 were U.S. citizens, including many residents from the Chicago area. "All of the people on this flight have the right to know exactly what caused the plane to crash. A plane just doesn't drop from the sky because it's raining hard," said Corboy & Demetrio co-founder Thomas A. Demetrio. Aeromexico did not return requests for comment. Luis Gerardo Fonseca, director of Mexico's civil aviation agency, told Radio Formula on Monday the causes of the crash were still being investigated. The first officer and the two flight attendants on board the plane have already given their declarations as part of the investigation, he said. Investigators were waiting to interview the captain, who is still being treated in hospital, Fonseca said. Corboy & Demetrio said it filed six separate lawsuits on behalf of 11 passengers with the Cook County Circuit Court in Illinois. Francis Patrick Murphy, another partner at the firm, said weather, to some extent, is always a factor in flight operations. "However, safe flight operations depend on how the airline and its pilots monitor, respond to and correct for severe weather conditions, both in the pre-flight and inter-flight decision-making process, in order to avoid a mishap," Murphy said. (Reporting by Tracy Rucinski in CHICAGO and Anthony Esposito in MEXICO CITY; Editing by Paul Tait)
Istanbul (AFP) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday spoke by phone with Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro, passing on his best wishes after what Caracas said was a drone "assassination" bid backed by Colombia.

Erdogan, a close ally of Maduro, also wished well the soldiers wounded in the weekend incident, Turkish presidential sources said, without giving further details.

Maduro and Erdogan have cultivated an increasingly close relationship as Turkey's ties with the West have frayed in recent months and Venezuela remains a foe of the United States.

The Venezuelan leader last month attended Erdogan's inauguration in Ankara for a new presidential term, hailing him as a "friend of Venezuela and leader of the new multi-polar world."

Maduro was also a surprise non-Muslim guest at a summit of Islamic leaders organised by Erdogan in December 2017 to denounce the US recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

A live broadcast of the weekend incident on Venezuelan state television showed Maduro interrupted in mid-speech by an explosion and looking up in confusion.

Dozens of soldiers on parade are then seen breaking ranks and running away in panic.

Maduro and his government said the president had been targeted by two flying drones carrying explosives. But details of the incident remain unclear, with conflicting information coming from various sources.

The Turkish foreign ministry had already said it was "deeply saddened" by the incident and said it was the "greatest consolation" that Maduro was unharmed.

"In this difficult time, Turkey stands with the brotherly and friendly Venezuelan people and President Maduro, his family and all government officials," it said.

Erdogan's spokesman Ibrahim Kalin also told Maduro on Twitter: "Stay strong mi amigo."

Erdogan earlier in Istanbul held talks with Venezuelan Minister of Industry and National Production Tareck El Aissami, the presidency said, without giving further details.

Maduro is also a big fan the popular Turkish historical television drama Dirilis Ertugrul about the origins of the Ottoman Empire and was taken to the set when he came to Turkey for Erdogan's inauguration.
By Aaron Maasho ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - Ethiopia's government has signed an agreement to end hostilities with the Oromo Liberation Front, which it had previously declared a terrorist movement, state television reported on Tuesday. The deal appeared another step in a drive by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to improve security and diplomatic relations, reform institutions and open parts of the state-controlled economy. Since the 1970s, the rebels have fought a low-level insurgency for self-determination for the Oromiya region, which is Ethiopia's largest and home to the Oromo ethnic group. The OLF was initially part of a transitional government set up in 1991 by rebels from the EPRDF coalition who had driven Mengistu Haile Mariam from power, but they soon fell out with the coalition. On Tuesday, the government signed a reconciliation agreement to end hostilities with the OLF's exiled leader Dawud Ibsa, who lives in exile in Asmara, the capital of neighbouring Eritrea, said Eritrea's Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel. "The agreement further states that ... the OLF will conduct its political activities in Ethiopia through peaceful means," he said on Twitter. The deal was signed in Asmara. The group declared a unilateral ceasefire last month after parliament removed it from a list of banned terrorist groups that it had been part of since 2008. Abiy took office in April and his reforms have included extending an olive branch to dissidents overseas. He has also acknowledged abuses by security services and ended a military stalemate with Eritrea that followed a 1998-2000 border war in which 80,000 people are thought to have died. (Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg)
Luxembourg (AFP) - EU countries should continue extraditions to Britain until it leaves the bloc next year, despite claims that Brexit could cause uncertainty for suspects, the legal advisor to the union's top court said Tuesday.

An Irish murder suspect appealed against a European Arrest Warrant on the grounds that Britain's decision to quit the EU left unanswered questions over the arrangements for his transfer.

But the advocate general to the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg said that Britain's June 2016 vote to leave had no bearing on such warrants so long as it remained part of the EU.

"The UKs decision to leave the EU should not affect the execution of a European arrest warrant issued by it. EU law applies as long as the UK is a Member State," Advocate General Maciej Szpunar said.

Judges at the ECJ usually, but not always, follow the legal opinions of the court's advocate general.

The European Arrest Warrant system allows EU countries to request the extradition of suspects from other member states, with very few reasons allowed for refusal.

It has been used in high-profile cases including Spain's bid to extradite former Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont from Belgium and Germany, and for Sweden's attempt to transfer Wikileaks chief Julian Assange from Britain over sexual assault allegations.

The suspect in the current case, identified only as RO, was arrested in Ireland in 2016 on a warrant issued by Britain on charges of murder, arson and rape, and appealed to the Irish High Court on grounds including issues related to Brexit.

The Irish court then asked the ECJ to rule whether it should refuse to surrender the suspect due to "the uncertainty as to the arrangements which will be put in place after the UKs withdrawal."

But the ECJ lawyer said there were no grounds to refuse the warrant.

Britain was still subject to EU laws until it leaves in March 2019, and moreover "there is no basis to question the UKs continued commitment to fundamental rights," the advocate general ruled.

The advocate general also said that Irish authorities could expect that Britain could abide by the European Arrest Warrant system's rules "including for post-surrender situations after the issuing member state has left the EU."
Harare (AFP) - The European Union and United States on Tuesday condemned violent attacks targeting the Zimbabwe opposition since elections last week, as 27 supporters of the MDC party were released on bail.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, declared winner of the country's first ballot since the downfall of Robert Mugabe, again vowed to protect rights, but the government has been accused of overseeing a brutal post-vote crackdown.

Last week's poll, which was marred by soldiers opening fire at a protest killing six people, was meant to re-launch Zimbabwe on the international stage and attract foreign aid and investment after the repression of the Mugabe era.

Mnangagwa won the presidential vote by a narrow margin, and the opposition Movement for Democratic (MDC) has accused him of rigging the result.

"The eruption of violence... stand(s) in sharp contrast to the high hopes and expectations for a peaceful, inclusive, transparent and credible election," said a joint statement from the EU, US, Canada and Switzerland.

It called for the government "to ensure that the Zimbabwean Defence Forces act with restraint, in full respect of international human rights norms".

- Night raids by masked men -

The MDC has accused security forces of abducting and beating opposition activists and their families since the election result was declared early Friday.

"I've just finished going thru the evidence... We WON this election emphatically," MDC leader Chamisa tweeted, alleging election authorities used falsified figures to ensure Mnangagwa retained power.

Mnangagwa, who says any fraud allegations should be raised through the courts, said on Twitter that "transparency and accountability remain paramount. And despite the naysayers, in this new Zimbabwe, freedom will reign."

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has told during a telephone conversation that he must rein in his security forces, a UN spokesman said Tuesday.

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Guterres also spoke by phone with opposition leader Chamisa to urge him to turn to the courts -- and not the streets -- if he plans to challenge Mnangagwa's election victory.

"In his two calls, the secretary-general made clear that he counted on the president of Zimbabwe to ensure that the security forces show maximum restraint," said UN spokesman Farhan Haq.

Human Rights Watch reported several cases of beatings and harassment by soldiers in Harare's suburbs -- MDC strongholds -- with soldiers in groups of four to 10 attacking people in bars and restaurants.

In the early hours of Sunday, six masked men broke into the house of MDC youth leader Happymore Chidziva, pointed a rifle at a woman's head and slapped and kicked her, it said.

- Legal challenge -

The 27 MDC supporters arrested over alleged violence at last week's deadly post-election protests were bailed Tuesday.

"We are very pleased obviously that they have been released," defence lawyer Denford Halimani told AFP following the hearing at Harare's magistrates court.

Prosectors had opposed bail, saying the accused -- 19 men and eight women -- were "linked" to the deaths of the six people when the army opened fire on opposition supporters protesting against alleged election fraud.

At least five of the accused are polling agents who were visiting MDC headquarters to hand in polling returns and collect travel expenses, according to the defence.

The 27, who deny all charges, were required to post bail of $50 (43 euros) and to report to Harare police station on Friday,.

"We have advised them to lay low and not to engage in any activities that might result in other charges. This system thrives on harassing people," Halimani said.

Mnangagwa, Mugabe's former right-hand man who took power with military backing in November, has accused the MDC of fomenting the unrest, but he also said he would set up an independent commission to investigate the killings.

The MDC is expected to soon launch a legal challenge over the election result, in which Mnangagwa won 50.8 percent of vote, just scraping in above the 50 percent run-off threshold.
Paris (AFP) - Europe baked in near-record temperatures on Monday but some respite was on the horizon after weeks of nonstop sunshine as people come to terms with what may prove to be the region's new normal in an era of climate change.

Here is a roundup of recent developments:

- France nearing a peak -

Temperatures were expected to peak at around 37 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit) in southern France on Monday, while the north is due to be hotter on Tuesday. On Saturday, they hit their highest levels since a 2003 heatwave killed thousands of mainly elderly people.

Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said people had to take proper care to cope with the heat and warned that everyone had to adapt.

"You need to drink a lot, but also to eat and take salt," Buzyn said.

"We are probably going to adapt our warnings in the coming years, because this is something we haven't been seeing until now."

- Spain fires under control-

In Spain the death toll rose to seven after a 40-year-old German man on the Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James) pilgrimage succumbed to heat stroke on Sunday in the eastern region of Extremadura, a spokeswoman for Spain's Guardia Civil police force told AFP.

Local officials also recorded other heat stroke deaths in the Extremadura and Catalonia regions.

Firefighters, benefitting from calmer winds, were meanwhile gaining control of a wildfire in the southwestern province of Huelva, just across the border from the Algarve in southern Portugal.

Temperatures remained high, especially in the southeast where they were forecast to hit 40-42 C.

- Portugal fires -

In Portugal, temperatures have eased slightly but not by enough to make the job of some 1,100 firefighters aided by 160 soldiers in Monchique any easier pending the expected arrival of two Spanish Canadair firefighting planes.

Monchique, in southern Portugal, was shrouded in thick clouds of smoke early Monday after the authorities evacuated several houses overnight, with 24 people injured, one seriously.

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Rescue officials initially expressed optimism they were getting the better of the raging fire. But in a new update they appeared less confident. Abel Gomes, one of the heads of the civil protection service, said the situation "had unfortunately changed".

"We have witnessed flare-ups of great intensity" fanned by strong winds, he added.

The weather service said that after Saturday's peak, temperatures were back below 45 C and should continue lower over the next few days.

- Fresh spike in Germany -

Germany expects a fresh spike mid-week to around 39 C before temperatures ease, with official figures showing the average for April-July running 3.6 degrees higher than the 1961-1990 reference period.

Farmers continued to plead for help, with the president of Germany's farmers' association, Joachim Rukwied, saying a billion euros ($1.15 billion) in government aid may be necessary as crop failure rates hit 70 percent in some areas.

More than a million children returned to school on Monday in three German states - Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland and Hesse -- but some were allowed to go home early because of the heatwave.

- British islands in trouble -

Britain saw continued hot weather in the south with a maximum of 32 C but it was cooler and cloudier in the north.

Reports said the persistent lack of rain has hit the country's more remote islands, such as Lundy in the Bristol Channel -- with a population in the dozens -- which is now reliant on bottled water from the mainland after local supplies ran dry.

Arran in Scotland, the Isle of Scilly in southwest England and Jersey in the Channel Islands have all asked people to cut water consumption, the Daily Express report added.

- Netherlands -

The heatwave has hit the low-lying Netherlands hard like many other countries but no one thought it could be a threat to its world-famous system of dams and canals designed to keep the sea at bay.

River levels have fallen so low that seawater is seeping in to waterways, and the Rijkswaterstaat, which manages the national water system, has been opening barrages inland to flush it out.

Meanwhile in the city of Utrecht, the clock hands on the famous medieval Dom Tower have stood still since Friday at 11:23 after the hot temperatures warped the mechanism.

The European Association of Fruit and Vegetable Processors (Profel), based in neighbouring Belgium, lamented the effect of a third straight year of prolonged drought conditions.

"The extreme weather conditions experienced around Europe can lead to losses on the fields in both quality and quantity," a Profel statement said, warning of a "severe shortage in supplies in the coming period for all vegetable crops."

- Greek fire toll rises to 91 -

Greece was a little cooler but the toll in last month's wildfire northeast of Athens rose to 91 as a 95-year-old woman died of her injuries, officials said.

Another 36 people remain hospitalised after the July 23 disaster, six of them in critical condition.

- Scorching Scandinavia -

Wildfires that have been raging across Sweden are abating, emergency services SOS Alarm said, adding that the blazes were down to eight on Monday.

The nation's far north saw heavy rainfall on Monday, authorities said, after record heat in the Arctic Circle triggered drought and wildfires. Drought is persisting in many other areas of the country.

In neighbouring Finland, a Helsinki supermarket opened its doors overnight Saturday to customers seeking refuge from the heat.

In a video released on Facebook, the K-Supermarket showed customers chilling on mattresses and in sleeping bags.
LONDON (Reuters) - European companies can be protected from new U.S. sanctions on Iran, a junior British foreign minister said on Tuesday, after President Donald Trump withdrew from an international agreement designed to deny Tehran the ability to build nuclear weapons.

As Washingtons so-called snapback sanctions are reinstated on Tuesday, a new EU law to shield European companies will also take effect to try to mitigate what EU officials say is their unlawful reach beyond U.S. borders.

"If a company fears legal action taken against it and enforcement action taken against it by an entity in response to American sanctions then that company can be protected as far as EU legislation is concerned," Alistair Burt, the British minister of state for the Middle East, told BBC radio.

"It is a commercial decision for companies whether they continue to work in Iran."

(Reporting By Andrew MacAskill; editing by Michael Holden)
NEW YORK (AP)  A former member of the Parliament of Barbados has been arrested in Florida on conspiracy and money laundering charges filed in Brooklyn federal court.

Donville Inniss, a legal permanent U.S. resident and ex-member of the Barbados parliament and a former industry minister there, was arrested Friday.

U.S. Attorney Richard Donoghue announced the arrest, saying an indictment was unsealed Monday.

The 52-year-old Inniss was released on a $50,000 bond after appearing in Tampa federal court. His lawyer did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment.

Prosecutors say Inniss conspired to accept $36,000 in bribes from high-level executives of a Barbados-based insurance company in 2015 and 2016. They say he laundered the money in the U.S.

They also say he helped the company obtain government contracts.
August 1 to 7 marks World Breastfeeding Week 2018, celebrated every year to encourage and support breastfeeding to help improve the health of babies around the world.

One way breastfeeding can boost a baby's health is by warding off food allergies. Catherine Field, a nutrition professor at the University of Alberta, says there are ways to make a mother's milk even better.

"We know it's the perfect food, but it could be made more perfect by some of the things moms eat and do," said Field. "New studies are suggesting there are foods and nutrients that a nursing mom can eat that build immune tolerance to even further reduce the chance that her baby will develop an allergy."

With infants under the age of two particularly vulnerable to developing food allergies, usually to peanuts and tree nuts, eggs, cow's milk, fish and shellfish, and sesame seeds, Field offers her expert advice on how to boost baby's immune system.

If you can, breast is best

The World Health Organization recommends exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months if possible. This will give baby's immunity more time to develop, as the milk passes along tiny pieces of protein that help train the infant's immune system to develop tolerance, as well as mom's protective immune cells. However, Field admits this can be hard: "It means being tied to the baby, or other family members want to help feed. If moms find it hard to nurse or want help, they can consider using a breast pump and storing the milk so others can help feed and bond with baby."

Make the most of baby's first feed

Even if you don't plan to or are unable to continue breastfeeding, Field advises taking advantage of colostrum, the first milk produced within 24 to 48 hours of giving birth. "Even for women who aren't going to be able to breastfeed on a regular basis, really try to do so right after birth. It's different from the milk produced even a few days later, because it's packed with a lot of factors that get the baby's immune system off to a good start."

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Try not to introduce formula too early

Try to avoid giving babies formula during the first six months, as it alters the development of the immune system, says Field. "It's been shown that feeding formula too early puts babies at risk of developing allergies." After six months, formula is safe to introduce, but Field advises doing it gradually over three to four weeks, and watching babies carefully for reactions like rashes, cramps or poor sleep. "If that happens, stop feeding formula for a while and then introduce it again later. As babies get older, they're able to tolerate more."

Fill up on fish

Adding salmon, tuna or fish oil to your diet while breastfeeding can boost levels of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA in breast milk, which is thought to help boost immune system development, according to Field's research. She says just taking one fish oil capsule per day boosts the DHA level in breast milk by three times. Aim for two to three weekly servings of salmon or tuna, or opt for foods like yogurt, orange juice and eggs enriched with omega-3 fatty acids.
By Vassilis Triandafyllou and Idyli Tsakiri STRATONI, Greece (Reuters) - Diver Vasilis Mentogiannis is campaigning to protect a unique site in a remote gulf in north-eastern Greece where seahorses - a protected species ravaged by pollution and overfishing - are thriving. Having already restored their habitat in 2015 with ropes and synthetic plants after it was damaged by flood waters from a nearby village, he is now seeking broader protection. "We are talking about a very small region, I think just keeping the fishing boats away is something we can accomplish," said Mentogiannis. He discovered the spot on the Chalkidiki peninsula by chance in 2007 and marine experts are fascinated by his find. Swimming at a depth of about 8-9 meters he recalls seeing a seahorse, followed by another and another. "I saw a great many, and I said to myself, 'hey, what is going on here?' I thought this was really remarkable," As it was highly unusual to see groups of seahorses together he decided to form a team of divers to document the creatures. Seahorses do exist in Greece's seas but scientists say it is unique to find a stable and continued population, especially as the seabed is barren and there are usually not enough plants for the seahorses to grasp and hide from their predators. There is however ample food. Seahorses feed on plankton and mobile benthic organisms. "In one small islet a group perseveres, lives and thrives. It's like the last of the Mohicans," says Costas Dounas, Research Director at the Hellenic Center for Marine Research's (HCMR) Institute of Marine Biology. In 2010 a flood tore through nearby Stratoni village and pushed debris into the sea partly destroying their habitat. Determined to try and repair the site and with scientists' advice, Mentogiannis completed an artificial habitat for the seahorses in 2015, created with a labyrinth of ropes. This has helped to further increase their presence, he says, though it is hard to give a definitive figure on the size of the population. "They took to it well, it was very useful for them, because they could latch onto it, lie down and camouflage themselves on the rope." "We have spent many, many hours with seahorses, they are shy creatures, and turn their backs on the cameras all the time," mused Mentogiannis. (Additional reporting, writing by Deborah Kyvrikosaios; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
By Vassilis Triandafyllou and Idyli Tsakiri

STRATONI, Greece (Reuters) - Diver Vasilis Mentogiannis is campaigning to protect a unique site in a remote gulf in north-eastern Greece where seahorses - a protected species ravaged by pollution and overfishing - are thriving.

Having already restored their habitat in 2015 with ropes and synthetic plants after it was damaged by flood waters from a nearby village, he is now seeking broader protection.

"We are talking about a very small region, I think just keeping the fishing boats away is something we can accomplish," said Mentogiannis.

He discovered the spot on the Chalkidiki peninsula by chance in 2007 and marine experts are fascinated by his find.

Swimming at a depth of about 8-9 metres he recalls seeing a seahorse, followed by another and another.

"I saw a great many, and I said to myself, 'hey, what is going on here?' I thought this was really remarkable,"

As it was highly unusual to see groups of seahorses together he decided to form a team of divers to document the creatures.

Seahorses do exist in Greece's seas but scientists say it is unique to find a stable and continued population, especially as the seabed is barren and there are usually not enough plants for the seahorses to grasp and hide from their predators.

There is however ample food. Seahorses feed on plankton and mobile benthic organisms.

"In one small islet a group perseveres, lives and thrives. It's like the last of the Mohicans," says Costas Dounas, Research Director at the Hellenic Center for Marine Research's (HCMR) Institute of Marine Biology.

In 2010 a flood tore through nearby Stratoni village and pushed debris into the sea partly destroying their habitat.

Determined to try and repair the site and with scientists' advice, Mentogiannis completed an artificial habitat for the seahorses in 2015, created with a labyrinth of ropes.

This has helped to further increase their presence, he says, though it is hard to give a definitive figure on the size of the population.

Story continues

"They took to it well, it was very useful for them, because they could latch onto it, lie down and camouflage themselves on the rope."

"We have spent many, many hours with seahorses, they are shy creatures, and turn their backs on the cameras all the time," mused Mentogiannis.

(Additional reporting, writing by Deborah Kyvrikosaios; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
Washington (AFP) - The weaknesses of the US Republican Party heading into November's midterm elections were laid bare Wednesday as a special House election featuring a candidate endorsed by President Donald Trump remained unresolved -- a contest that also underscored Democratic momentum.

Trump proclaimed victory for Republican state senator Troy Balderson in Tuesday's race in Ohio for a seat in the House of Representatives, despite it remaining too close to call.

Even if Balderson is eventually declared the winner in Ohio's 12th district, the fact that Democrats were competitive in the solidly red region was the latest example of amped up grassroots energy in the opposition camp.

And it further exposed Republican peril -- already on broad display -- just three months before the elections that will determine whether the GOP can maintain control of Congress.

The Ohio race carries powerful implications, as it is the final direct face-off between Republicans and Democrats before the midterms.

Trump, who made an 11th-hour campaign stop for Balderson, looked to past victories to boost his argument that Republicans were not in trouble.

"The Republicans have now won 8 out of 9 House Seats" in special elections since his inauguration in January 2017, the president tweeted.

"Yet if you listen to the Fake News Media you would think we are being clobbered."

The signs are nevertheless ominous for the GOP.

In many of the races mentioned by Trump, the Republicans underperformed, only narrowly winning elections that should not have been remotely close.

In Tuesday's contest, Balderson was ahead of Democrat Danny O'Connor by just 1,754 votes, with thousands of provisional and absentee ballots outstanding.

The margin, less than one percent, comes in an affluent district that is 88 percent white, and which Republicans have held for 35 years. Trump beat Hillary Clinton there by some 11 points in 2016.

But with the midterm races being seen as a referendum on the president, opposition momentum in Trump country is becoming undeniable.

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"Democrats' morale was the big winner last night," tweeted congressman Keith Ellison, the deputy chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

Several key Republicans have agreed with that sentiment, including Ohio Governor John Kasich, who said it was "shocking" that the special election was so close.

"It's clear the energy and intensity is on the Democratic side" nationally, said moderate former Republican congressman Charlie Dent.

- Democratic 'intensity' -

The Ohio race also laid bare a critical dimension that could have dramatic implications in November: turnout in the district's fast-growing suburbs was an impressive 42 percent, while in the more rural, lightly populated counties -- the base of Trump support -- turnout ranged from 27 to 32 percent.

Another danger sign for Trump's party: there are more than 60 Republican-held congressional districts that are rated as more competitive than the 12th in Ohio.

Democrats need to flip 23 seats nationally to reclaim the 435-seat House, and they are looking for a "blue wave" to get them over the top.

Trump is worried that losing the House, and potentially the Senate, could hurt his ability to advance his agenda -- and expose him to Democratic efforts to oust him from power.

But he remained insistent that candidates benefit from his endorsement.

"As long as I campaign and/or support Senate and House candidates (within reason), they will win!" Trump tweeted.

In recent weeks, he has made several campaign appearances seeking to boost his picks ahead of state primaries.

But in Kansas, a controversial Trump-endorsed candidate, Kris Kobach, was locked in a race for governor. After Tuesday's primary, which pitted Kobach against the Republican incumbent, the race remained undecided, with Kobach ahead by just 191 votes.

Back in Ohio, O'Connor, who has not conceded and stressed he will run again in November regardless of the outcome, scoffed at Trump's claim to have had an outsize impact on his race.

"I don't think he knows what he's talking about," O'Connor told CNN.

The party in the White House traditionally loses seats in midterm elections.

And Democrats believe mounting voter frustration with Trump is tilting the political playing field further in their favor.

But there were mixed messages Wednesday, when RealClearPolitics put the generic ballot -- a poll of whether Americans will vote for Democrats or Republicans for Congress -- in favor of Democrats by 5.7 percentage points, down from the 6.1 recorded on Friday.

Tuesday's round of primaries in Kansas, Michigan, Missouri and Washington also put Republicans on notice that women could play a determining factor in the midterms.

A record number of women, 183, will now be running for US House seats in November, a surge that follows a year marked by the #MeToo movement and defiance of Trump.
This post has been updated.

Trying to take a hiatus from social media? If youre finding Facebook the hardest to leave, youre not alone.

According to new data from The Harris Poll, the giant social network ranked the highest in a new survey that looked at the social media apps that people find the hardest to break away from. (Facebook has 2.2 billion monthly active users.)

The survey looked at 2,043 adults aged 18 and older in the U.S. and found that 49% of respondents found Facebook (FB) the hardest to abstain from, followed by YouTube (parent company: GOOGL), Instagram, and Twitter (TWTR).

Source: The Harris Poll

The results varied slightly by gender. Across all ages, women found it more difficult than men to break away from Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Pinterest. Men, meanwhile, found it more difficult than women to unplug from YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Tinder.

Youre exploiting a vulnerability in human psychology

Sean Parker, an early Facebook investor and its first president, explained that Facebook was designed to play on dopamine, a chemical produced by our brains that motivates repeated behaviors.

The thought process was all about, How do we consume as much of your time and conscious attention as possible? Parker told Mike Allen of Axios in November 2017. And that means that we need to sort of give you a little dopamine hit every once in a while, because someone liked or commented on a photo or a post or whatever, and thats going to get you to contribute more content, and thats going to get you more likes and comments. Its a social validation feedback loop.  Youre exploiting a vulnerability in human psychology.

Mark Zuckerberg, chief executive officer and founder of Facebook Inc., attends the Viva Tech start-up and technology gathering at Parc des Expositions Porte de Versailles on May 24, 2018 in Paris, France. (Photo by Christophe Morin/IP3/Getty Images)

Trevor Haynes, a research technician in the department of neurobiology at Harvard Medical School, further explained that companies like Facebook will continue to do everything they can to keep your eyes glued to the screen as often as possible. And by using algorithms to leverage our dopamine-driven reward circuitry, they stack the cards  and our brains  against us.

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And taking away those dopamine hits brings its own downside: 31% of respondents to The Harris Poll said they grew anxious when they didnt check social media regularly.

Turning users into consumers

Facebook, fully aware of its integration into peoples lives, is reportedly looking to deepen links with financial institutions to help with customer service.

Facebook is nothing but an advertising platform, Yahoo Finance Editor-In-Chief Andy Serwer explained on the Final Round. And at some point, some way, somehow theyre going to have to get away from that and get into businesses that are either membership-, subscriber-based, or e-commerce, or transactions, or something like that.

And, we all know, financial services is arguably the biggest business on the planet. And they already have some inroads. So I think there is some excitement by the marketplace that theyre looking to push out in this direction.

The Facebook logo is reflected on a womans glasses in this photo illustration taken June 3, 2018. (Photo: REUTERS/Regis Duvignau)

Users want outside help

The Harris Poll noted that 61% of millennials say theyd take more digital detoxes if their friends and/or family did it with them.

Some were so attached  27% according to the survey  that theyd even take a pay cut to work at a company that enforced digital restrictions for employees. Overall, 47% of respondents wished their companies had digital detox policies that restricted emails on weekends.

(Photo: The Harris Poll)

Others have taken it to the extreme and deleted their social media accounts: 4 in 10 respondents in a recent survey by Edelman said that they deleted at least one social media account in the past year. And according to Pivotal Research, the aggregated time spent on Facebook and Messenger fell 10% in June.

But most users remain committed to the giant social network  as the data show  to the extent that theyd rather not stay away for long.

Follow Aarthi on Twitter.

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The clash broke out at a rally of the banned Tehrik-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) on a highway in Sheikhupura, just outside Lahore, as the group prepared to march on the capital Islamabad, a spokesman for the Punjab police said on Wednesday.Police said TLP activists armed with pistols and automatic weapons including AK-47 rifles opened fire on security forces controlling the demonstrators.Rao Sardar Ali Khan, inspector general of the Punjab police, said four officers were killed and at least 263 wounded. TLP spokespeople said several of the group's activists had also been killed or wounded in the clash.Thousands of TLP activists have been blocking Pakistan's busiest highway since Friday, demanding the release of their leader and the expulsion of France's ambassador over the publication of a series of caricatures depicting the Prophet Mohammad by a French satirical magazine.After days of tension, including a clash last week in which three police officers were killed, the Interior Ministry ordered paramilitary Rangers to be deployed under anti-terrorism laws.It is the group's third countrywide protest campaign since 2017 over caricatures which are considered deeply insulting by Muslims.The French magazine Charlie Hebdo first published the cartoons in 2006 and republished them last year to mark the opening of a trial over a deadly attack on its offices in Paris by Islamist militants in 2015. Pakistani Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said the government would use force to block the Islamists from entering the capital Islamabad.
Photo credit: Car and Driver

From Car and Driver

UPDATE 8/29/2018: Mahindra has fired back, claiming Fiat Chrysler Automobiles patent complaint is without merit. More information is below.

FCA has filed a formal complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission to block the sale of the Mahindra Roxor in the United States. Indias Mahindra & Mahindra has set up shop in the Detroit suburb of Auburn Hills to produce the Roxor from knock-down kits.



The Roxor, which is based on the design of the original Willys Jeep, does not meet current U.S. vehicle standards and is to be sold as an off-highway vehicle. Its powered by a turbo-diesel 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine backed by a five-speed manual transmission. With 62 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque, its good for a top speed of 45 mph.

Photo credit: Car and Driver





As reported by Bloomberg, Fiat Chryslers complaint asserts that the Roxor is a nearly identical copy of the iconic Jeep design and that the vehicle was modelled after the original Willys Jeep.

With an overall length of approximately 148 inches and a 98.0-inch wheelbase, the Roxor is roughly the size of a CJ7; the current JL Wrangler in two-door form has a 96.8-inch wheelbase and is 166.8 inches long. Mahindra advertises the Roxor at $15,899 for a base unit, versus $28,940 for a base two-door JL Wrangler.



In its complaint, FCA further cites Mahindras demonstrated intention to penetrate the United States market and harm FCAs goodwill and business. Is an off-highway Indian four-by-four clearly based on a Jeep design damaging to Jeeps current business? It looks as if that will be a question for the lawyers to decide.

UPDATE 8/29/2018: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. and its Mahindra Automotive North America division filed a public interest statement with the trade commission on August 22 asserting that the recent complaint filed by FCA U.S. LLC is without merit, and has begun proceedings in a Michigan court to enforce a design agreement that it claims to have executed with Fiat in 2009.

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Mahindra is asking the court to block Fiat from participating in the complaint it filed earlier with the International Trade Commission-an injunction-citing an agreement reached with Fiat in 2009 that it would never bring such claims if Mahindra used a grille approved by Fiat. It is Mahindras position that the Roxor uses an approved grille. Mahindra also argues that Fiat is using the ITC case to harm Roxor business by "creating negative publicity, damaging its reputation and stature in the marketplace."

Mahindra maintains this action is not only to state its position on the Roxor grille issue, but also to correct inaccuracies regarding Mahindra as a company and the Roxor as a product. Mahindra continues that the Roxor was always intended as an off-road-only vehicle, and therefore does not compete with FCA vehicles. As it is manufactured and assembled in Mahindras new plant in Michigan, it categorically rejects the notion that the Roxor was an imported, low-quality, knock-off kit car.

Photo credit: Car and Driver

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Nairobi (AFP) - Their rivalry has fueled appalling bloodshed in South Sudan, yet now for a third time Salva Kiir and Riek Machar will try to share power in the latest bid to bring peace to the world's youngest nation.

A deal signed Sunday between the rivals and other opposition parties under the mediation of Khartoum was welcomed with celebrations from the capital Juba to camps housing those displaced during five years of war.

Observers warn of a long road littered with obstacles between that signature and a final peace deal with rebel leader Machar's return from exile to Juba to serve as first vice president.

Getting Machar and President Kiir to work together is a tricky business, for the combination has always resulted in chaos and conflict in the past.

"It is going to be a real struggle because in meetings with President Kiir, he has made it pretty clear he didn't want to work with Machar," a diplomat based in Juba told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"He has really had his arm twisted into accepting the deal again."

- Lack of trust -

Both Kiir and Machar are former rebel leaders who rose to power during Sudan's 1983-2005 civil war between north and south -- a conflict in which the men also fought each other -- before South Sudan gained independence in 2011.

The two leaders come from the south's two main ethnic groups -- Kiir from the Dinka and Machar from the Nuer.

Their cohabitation in South Sudan's first independent government came to a swift end in 2013 when Kiir accused Machar of plotting a coup against him, kickstarting a war driven by ethnic conflict between their two communities.

A peace deal pushed the two men into the same government again in 2016, but just months after Machar's return fighting erupted in Juba and he was forced to flee on foot with his supporters to the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.

"I don't know how, with that level of violence, you can have trust in each other's actions and have a working government," said Ahmed Soliman, a Horn of Africa researcher with Chatham House.

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The fighting that followed was worse than before, and infinitely more complex, with new rebel groups and grievances fueling bloodshed, famine and displacement.

The latest peace push has been led by Uganda and Sudan, which is suffering an economic crisis and is keen to see oil start flowing again from South Sudan, whose economy has completely collapsed. Like the north, it desperately needs the income.

The sharing of this oil wealth is one of the contentious issues in the peace deal, which provides for an escrow account in which all parties will have a stake while the government will hold the most control.

"Will the government use this money for the purpose it is intended, or will it go back to its old ways where a few people dig their hands into the coffers and run away with the money," said Brian Adeba of The Enough Project advocacy group that closely follows the South Sudan conflict

- 'A portion of the pie' -

The evolution of the conflict has brought many more rebel groups to the table, resulting in a unity government with five vice presidents, a 35-minister transitional government and a 550-member parliament.

"This is very much a government of accomodation, let's be honest, this is about trying to give people status, a portion of the pie. That I think doesn't bode well for a transitional government and the nature of it," said Soliman.

Meanwhile it is unclear whether Machar's rank and file will accept the deal he has signed, and there are still rebel groups -- such as that of former army chief Paul Malong -- which are outside the deal.

Kiir has vowed the deal "will not collapse", but has already complained about the bloated government and questioned how it will be funded.

"They need security, they need vehicles, they need houses... five vice presidents, this is a very big responsibility to manage," he said this week.

- Drop in fighting -

The warring parties now have to hammer out a final peace deal, and will then have three months to form a transitional government which will hold power for three years.

While many questions remain over the cantonment of soldiers, security for Machar's return and details of governance and reconciliation, observers say that despite violations, a July 27 ceasefire has led to a decrease in violence.

"We have noticed a big drop off in fighting. There are still skirmishes but nothing like the magnitude that we had before," said the diplomat in Juba.

"As long as fighting stops it means ordinary people can get on with their lives and we can start resolving this massive humanitarian crisis."
MILAN (AP)  Fiorentina has signed Croatia winger Marko Pjaca on loan from Juventus, with an option to buy.

Juventus announced in a statement on Tuesday that Fiorentina has paid 2 million euros ($2.3 million) for the loan and will pay 20 million euros ($23.2 million) if it decides to buy Pjaca at the end of the season.

The 23-year-old Pjaca was part of the Croatia team which reached the World Cup final in Russia last month and he came on as a substitute in that 4-2 defeat to France.

Juventus signed Pjaca from Dinamo Zagreb in 2016 but he spent last season on loan at Schalke.
In this article:

SAO PAULO (AP)  Former Olympic long jump gold medalist Maureen Maggi has launched a bid for a seat in Brazil's senate.

Maggi was announced Monday as candidate of the Brazilian Socialist Party.

The 2008 Olympic champion will run for one of two seats in her native state of Sao Paulo.

The 42-year-old retired athlete secured her gold in Beijing with a 7.04-meter jump.

Maggi retired from the sport in February 2016. She had never expressed interest in politics until April, when she joined the party.

Brazil is in a political crisis since 2015, with a corruption probe ensnaring scores of politicians. Many have been jailed.

The vote will be held Oct. 7.
Alexandria (United States) (AFP) - Rick Gates, the prosecution's star witness in the trial of President Donald Trump's former campaign chief Paul Manafort, testified Monday that he conspired with his ex-boss to hide millions of dollars in foreign bank accounts from US tax authorities.

In riveting testimony before a packed courtroom, the 46-year-old also admitted to stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort during the decade the pair worked together as political consultants.

Gates, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy in February and is cooperating with the government in exchange for a more lenient prison sentence, took the stand on the fifth day of Manafort's trial on tax and bank fraud charges in Alexandria, Virginia.

Wearing a dark blue suit and a gold tie, Gates addressed his attention to prosecutors and the judge and studiously avoided the gaze of his longtime business partner Manafort at the defense table.

Manafort, 69, is the first defendant to go to court to fight charges stemming from Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

But the veteran Republican operative is not on trial for anything he did while serving for three months as the chairman of Trump's presidential campaign.

Instead, Manafort is answering to alleged crimes related to money he made proving political consulting services to the former Russian-backed government of Ukraine.

Prosecutors accuse Manafort of failing to report income from his work in Ukraine to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and Gates testified that he was a willing participant in the scheme.

Gates replied "yes" when asked by prosecutor Greg Andres if he had engaged in criminal activities with Manafort, who he described as a "brilliant" political strategist.

He said he had assisted Manafort in filing false tax returns and hiding the existence of 15 foreign bank accounts, mostly in Cyprus.

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"At Mr Manafort's request, we did not report the foreign bank accounts," Gates said.

He said the amounts in question were "several million dollars" over the years the pair spent working for political campaigns in Ukraine.

Gates also acknowledged stealing "hundreds of thousands" of dollars from Manafort by filing bogus expense reports.

- Gates back on the stand Tuesday -

Manafort, who helped Republicans Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan reach the White House, was Trump's campaign chairman from May to August 2016, when he was forced to step down amid questions about his lobbying work for Ukraine's former pro-Russian leader Viktor Yanukovych.

Gates, who worked for Manafort from 2006 to 2016 and was also a member of Trump's presidential election campaign team, is scheduled to take the witness stand again on Tuesday.

Defense attorneys attempted to chip away at his credibility, accusing him of embezzling "millions of dollars" from his former boss and making false statements to Manafort's accountant.

Mueller, a former FBI director, has indicted more than 30 people -- including 26 Russians -- in connection with his probe into whether members of Trump's campaign colluded with Russia to help get the real estate tycoon elected.

Trump has denounced the probe as a politically motivated "witch hunt" and denied there was any collusion with Moscow to defeat Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton.

While Gates and others have pleaded guilty, Manafort has refused to strike a deal and has insisted on having his day in court.

Legal experts say Manafort may be holding out hopes of a pardon from Trump.

Manafort is scheduled to go on trial in September on separate charges brought by Mueller of conspiracy, money laundering and failing to register as an agent of a foreign government
MOSCOW (AP)  Funerals have been held in Moscow for three Russian journalists who were killed during a reporting trip in Central African Republic.

Orkhan Dzhemal, Alexander Rastorguyev and Kirill Radchenko were shot last week while investigating a Russian military contractor and Russia's interests in the African country's mining industries. Their funerals in Russia took place Tuesday.

Exiled Russian opposition figure Mikhail Khodorkovsky, who financed the journalists' work, said the reporters were looking into a private security firm, known as Wagner, which operates in CAR.

The Russian company is linked to Yevgeny Prigozhin, a St. Petersburg entrepreneur dubbed "Putin's chef" because his restaurants hosted President Vladimir Putin's dinners with foreign dignitaries.

Central African Republic officials said men wearing turbans and speaking Arabic ambushed the journalists as they traveled by car at night.
BERLIN (AP)  A German mother and her partner were convicted and jailed Tuesday for repeatedly raping the woman's young son and selling him to pedophiles on the internet, abusing him for more than two years in a case that has horrified the country.

The Freiburg state court in southwestern Germany convicted the couple of serious sexual abuse of children, 21 counts in his case and 19 in hers. They also were convicted of rape, human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation, forced prostitution and producing child pornography, among other offenses.

The 48-year-old woman, who has been identified only as Berrin T. in line with German privacy rules, was sentenced to 12 years in prison. Her partner, Christian L., was sentenced to 12 years. The court ruled that the man, who had a previous conviction for child sex offenses, must remain in preventive custody after serving his sentence.

The pair were convicted of repeatedly abusing and raping the boy, now 10, and selling him to men on the darknet, an area of the internet that can be visited only by using special software. Some of the abuse was filmed.

The pair and six others were arrested last September. Several men have already been convicted in separate trials.

The court said the pair met at a food bank in Staufen, near Freiburg, in late 2014. It said the mother was aware from the start of the man's pedophile tendencies and previous conviction.

In the following months, the court said, the woman organized assaults on a 2-year-old girl she occasionally looked after. In May 2015, the couple started abusing the woman's son, with the man at first offering the child cash.

The couple allowed four other men to sexually abuse the boy  among them a German soldier, a Swiss man and a Spaniard who admitted paying the couple 10,000 euros ($11,560) to rape the boy multiple times and was convicted in a separate trial Monday.

The mother was often near the scene of the abuse by other men "to exert a calming influence on her child," and in the case of one client participated herself, the court said. The verdict was based on confessions by the pair and the videos of the abuse.

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In Tuesday's verdict, the couple was ordered to pay a total 30,000 euros ($34,650) in compensation to the boy and 12,500 euros to the girl they abused previously.

Local authorities have been accused of failing to protect the boy, who now lives with a foster family.

Officials took the boy away from his mother in March last year following vague indications from police that he might be at risk, but a local court sent him back weeks later on condition that she not allow any contact between the child and her partner.

Police started investigating after receiving an anonymous tip in 2017.

Related Video: 11 Children Rescued From New Mexico Compound

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Freiburg (Germany) (AFP) - A German court Tuesday handed down lengthy jail sentences to a couple for repeatedly sexually abusing their young son and selling him to paedophiles online for more than two years.

In a case that shocked the country and raised serious questions about child protection services in Germany, the regional court in Freiburg sentenced the boy's mother, Berrin Taha, to 12-and-a-half years in prison.

Her husband Christian Lais, the boy's stepfather whom he called "papa", received a 12-year sentence followed by preventive detention.

Lais, 39, had a previous conviction for child abuse, raising questions why he was allowed to live in a home with a child present.

The court found that the unemployed couple had sexually assaulted the boy, now 10, and pimped him on the so-called darknet between May 2015 and August 2017.

They were convicted of rape, aggravated sexual assault of children, forced prostitution and distribution of child pornography, judge Stefan Buergelin said as he read out the verdict.

The couple was also ordered to pay a total of 42,500 euros ($49,200) in damages to the boy and another victim, a girl.

Their sentences fell short of what prosectors had demanded -- 14 years and six months for Taha and 13 years and six months for Lais.

On Monday, the same court sentenced a Spanish paedophile, Javier Gonzalez Diaz, to 10 years' prison for repeatedly sexually abusing the young boy after paying the parents.

The 33-year-old was also ordered to pay 18,000 euros to the young victim.

The case came to light following an anonymous tip-off last September, and led to the arrest of eight people who have been charged with belonging to an online paedophile ring.

Lais admitted on the witness stand to the assaults on the boy.

He also made serious accusations against the child's 48-year-old mother, who confessed to the crimes but remained largely silent about any possible motive during the trial.

In his verdict, Buergelin said Taha went along with the abuse at first so she would not lose Lais as a partner and later "for financial motives".

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They charged several thousand euros (dollars) for each instance of abuse, filmed the acts and posted them on the darknet.

The boy is in foster care. His lawyer told reporters Tuesday that he was doing well "under the circumstances".

Related Video: 11 Children Rescued from New Mexico Compound

Watch news, TV and more on Yahoo View.
Freiburg (Germany) (AFP) - A German court handed down lengthy jail sentences Tuesday to a couple for repeatedly sexually abusing their young son and selling him to paedophiles online, in a shocking case that raised pointed questions about the competence of child protection services.

Following a criminal probe that even seasoned investigators said pushed them to the emotional limit, the regional court in Freiburg sentenced the boy's mother, Berrin Taha, to 12 and a half years in prison.

Her partner Christian Lais, the boy's stepfather whom he called "papa", received a 12-year sentence followed by preventive detention.

Lais, 39, was allowed to live in their home despite a previous conviction for child abuse and a court order to stay away from minors.

The judges found that the unemployed couple had sexually assaulted the boy, now 10, numerous times and pimped him on the so-called darknet between May 2015 and August 2017.

They were convicted of rape, aggravated sexual assault of children, forced prostitution and distribution of child pornography, judge Stefan Buergelin said.

The couple was also ordered to pay a total of 42,500 euros ($49,200) in damages to the boy and another victim, a girl who was temporarily in their care.

Taha, 48, said through her lawyer that she would not appeal, in order to spare her son an even longer legal ordeal.

- 'Vague' abuse suspicions dismissed -

Their sentences fell short of what prosectors had demanded -- 14 years and six months for Taha and 13 years and six months for Lais.

Even experienced police officers dealing with child abuse cases said the case was like nothing they had ever seen.

Local judicial and child services officials came in for massive criticism for having interviewed the mother after concerns about the boy's welfare arose months before the couple's arrest but failing to get his own account.

Key information about the case was not shared among authorities, and warnings from the boy's school about his wellbeing were dismissed by youth services as "vague".

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On Monday, the same court sentenced a Spanish paedophile, Javier Gonzalez Diaz, to 10 years' prison for repeatedly sexually abusing the young boy after paying the parents.

The 33-year-old was also ordered to pay 18,000 euros to the young victim.

The case came to light following an anonymous tip-off last September, and led to the arrest of eight people who have been charged with belonging to an online paedophile ring.

Police said they have another 20 suspected perpetrators in their sights.

- 'Owe it to this child' -

Lais admitted on the witness stand to the assaults on the boy.

He also made serious accusations against the child's mother, who confessed to the crimes but remained largely silent about any possible motive during the trial.

In his verdict, Buergelin said Taha went along with the abuse at first so she would not lose Lais as a partner and later "for financial motives".

They charged several thousand euros (dollars) for each instance of abuse, filmed the acts and posted them on the darknet.

The boy is in foster care and did not have to testify during the trial. His lawyer told reporters Tuesday that he was doing well "under the circumstances".

The German government's ombudsman for child sexual abuse issues, Joahnnes-Wilhelm Roerig, said the case had "laid bare a series of errors of judgement and shortcomings" by local, state and federal authorities.

"We owe it to this child to draw the right conclusions," he said, including improving cooperation between services, staffing and training.

He said in a statement that an official report on what went wrong in the case, compiled by judges and youth office staff, would be presented in September and include a list of recommendations for future policy.

Roerig also noted an official bias presuming that a mother would never sexually assault her own child, despite the fact that an estimated 10 to 20 percent of abusers are female.
The New York Yankees may have easily defeated the Chicago White Sox on Monday, but Giancarlo Stanton is going to get criticized as though they had lost. In the ninth inning of the contest, Stanton struck out with a position player on the mound.

Matt Davidson strikes out Giancarlo Stanton

With the White Sox trailing 7-0 in the ninth, the team called upon third baseman Matt Davidson to take the mound. After Brett Gardner grounded out, Stanton came to the plate.

Stanton fouled off the first pitch and took the second pitch for a ball. With the count even, Stanton fouled off the next two pitches. On the fifth pitch of the at-bat, he swung and missed at a 71.4 mph curveball from Davidson.

While your first inclination is to laugh at Stanton, Davidson actually threw a surprisingly good pitch.

Not Matt Davidsons first time on the mound

Davidson has been called on to pitch a few times in 2018. Prior to Mondays appearance, Davidson had pitched two perfect innings in the majors. He had one strikeout over those two innings.

Monday was Davidsons third appearance as a reliever in 2018. That put him in elite company.

15+ Home Runs & 3 pitching appearances in a season

American League history 2018 Matt Davidson 16 HR, 3 pitching appearances

1919 Babe Ruth 29 HR, 17 pitching appearances 2018 Shohei Ohtani is close (11 HR, 9 pitching appearances)  Christopher Kamka (@ckamka) August 7, 2018

Obviously, this doesnt mean Davidson is Babe Ruth. It just goes to show you how rare it is for power-hitting position players to get multiple shots on the mound in a single season.

Matt Davidsons perfect pitching performance came to an end

While striking out Stanton will go down as a career highlight for Davidson, Monday marked his worst pitching performance of the year. After getting Stanton out, Davidson allowed a walk to Didi Gregorius to put on the first base-runner of his pitching career. He then allowed his first hit to Aaron Hicks.

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With men on first and third, Davidson got Gleyber Torres to fly out to end the inning. He may no longer be perfect, and he may have finally given up a hit, but Davidson still has a 0.00 ERA in three innings out of the bullpen.

As for Stanton, hes no stranger to striking out, but were guessing this one might bother him more than most.

Giancarlo Stanton might hear it from teammates after striking out against a position player. (AP Photo)

      

Chris Cwik is a writer for Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at christophercwik@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!

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By Michele Kambas and Lefteris Papadimas ATHENS (Reuters) - Greece will demolish thousands of illegal buildings in response to the death of dozens of people who were unable to escape a maze of poorly planned streets in the country's worst wildfire disaster. Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, whose government has been accused of a slow response, said Greece must no longer allow illegal construction that has been common for decades in a country dogged by bureaucracy and corruption. The demolition of 3,200 buildings will start immediately in the Attica region, which includes the capital Athens, he said. "The chaos of unruly construction, which threatens human lives, can no longer be tolerated," Tsipras said in a speech in the town of Lavrio, down the coast from Mati where at least 91 people died in the blaze on July 23. Unlicensed constructions are a common feature of the Greek landscape where they even have a name: "afthereta", or "arbitrary" buildings. Built with apparent impunity, many are rubber stamped later under general amnesties, announced by successive governments in what critics say is a crude but effective way to wield power and gain votes. Authorities say there were dozens of such buildings in Mati, where people were trapped, with routes to the coast walled off -- illegal under Greek law. Tsipras said anyone in the process of building unlicensed constructions would be compelled to demolish them. The disaster has had political repercussions. The head of the civil protection department resigned on Monday, a day after the government replaced the chiefs of the police and the fire brigade. The civil protection minister resigned on Friday after saying he believed there had been few flaws with the way emergency services tackled the blaze, fueled by winds blowing at 120 km (70 miles) an hour. Tsipras's administration has rejected opposition claims that authorities were napping on the job, saying unlicensed building had thrived under previous governments. "I would have expected at least the tiniest bit of self-criticism from those who, along with their families, ran the country for more than four decades - not two, three or five years," said Tsipras, a leftist politician elected in 2015. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, head of the main opposition New Democracy Party, is son of Constantine Mitsotakis, a former prime minister. Fofi Gennimata, head of the small Socialist party which was also dominant for years, is the daughter of a key figure in that party. (Reporting by Michele Kambas; Editing by Robin Pomeroy)
ATHENS, Greece (AP)  Greece's prime minister vowed Tuesday to have experts investigate all aspects of the country's deadliest forest fire in decades and said the seaside resort areas devastated by the blaze will be rebuilt to higher standards.

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras led a meeting about the fire with ministers and regional officials in Lavrion, a seaside town about 50 kilometers (30 miles) south of the areas burned. At least 91 people died in the July 23 blaze.

"My promise, from the first day of this tragedy, was that the 'how' and the 'why' will be investigated in depth and in all its dimensions," Tsipras said. "Nothing will be covered up in the name of any vested interests."

The prime minister reiterated that illegal buildings and fencing erected in forests, on coastlines and in creeks would be demolished. Government officials have blamed unauthorized construction for contributing to the wildfire's death toll.

Experts have pointed to the narrow streets, numerous dead-ends and no clear path to the sea as a factor in the destruction wrought in Mati. The coastal town was the worst-affected by the fire, and poor planning has been blamed as one cause of the deaths of trapped residents.

"Uncontrolled building which threatens human lives can no longer be tolerated. Anything that destroys forests and coastlines, anything that is a danger to human life, will be torn down," Tsipras said. "It is our duty toward our dead, but most of all it is our duty toward the future generations."

A judicial investigation already is underway, and more than 20 people have testified so far. Prosecutors handling the probe have requested transcripts of radio communications between police and firefighters. The investigation is expected to take at least a month.

Tsipras' government has come under intense criticism for its handling of the blaze, particularly after it denied mishandling the emergency response. The public order minister, Nikos Toskas, argued that despite much soul-searching, he had been unable to identify any major mistakes.

Following relentless denunciations from opposition parties, Toskas resigned Friday. Senior officials under his supervision followed suit over the weekend.
Achilles and heel injuries limited Mike Conley to 12 games last season. (AP)

LAS VEGAS  Mike Conley expects the Memphis Grizzlies to clear him for full-contact drills at some point this month, ending a frustrating ordeal with his left Achilles that cost him a year of his prime and the coach who helped him become a more complete offensive player. Family time was fun and the daddy-day-care responsibilities helped him overcome the agonizing waiting game of the past nine months, but it also made Conley more appreciative of the game he otherwise wouldve taken for granted.

Its like I lost my wallet, got it back and now I can do something with it, Conley told Yahoo Sports at the USA Basketball minicamp last month.

While Conley was away, the Grizzlies tumbled into irrelevance, reversing course from a string of seven consecutive postseason appearances that he directed with Marc Gasol and the since-moved-on faces of the Grit and Grind era: Zach Randolph and Tony Allen. Conley and Gasol had been tasked with leading the next wave for the Grizzlies franchise, with Conley  arguably the best NBA veteran without All-Star credentials  given the opportunity to be an unquestioned leader for the first time in his career. But a bone protrusion in his left heel  which would require season-ending surgery in January  limited him to just 12 games, contributed to the dismissal of David Fizdale and forced Gasol, his good friend, to take the brunt of the criticism for the teams failings.

It was the most frustrating year or my life, of my career, because I felt coming into that season, I was on another level, Conley told Yahoo Sports. Mentally, physically, my game. Everything was feeling, like, Ive never played as good of basketball, Ive never felt this good going into that season and for that to happen, it put me all the way down.

Conley had intended on building upon a career year in 2016-17 under Fizdale in which he set new bests in scoring, shooting percentage and 3-point shooting and had an impressive postseason performance that included a memorable overtime duel with Kawhi Leonard. Fiz was huge for me, Conley told Yahoo Sports. He unlocked a different part of my game that otherwise I hadnt been able to showcase and show.

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Fizdales time in Memphis was short-lived, however, with a nine-game losing streak and a spat with Gasol resulting in his stunning dismissal. Conley missed seven of those games and felt so responsible for Fizdales firing that he reached out on FaceTime to apologize. It was tough because I knew the reason we lost nine in a row is because I wasnt out there and wasnt able to play and really put him in a tough situation, Conley told Yahoo Sports. I said, Man, I hate this happened. I feel like Im a part of the reason this happened. He was like, Aw, Mike, man, naw. It had nothing to do with you, you know that. Without you, we still should win games.  I still felt some guilt for it. He assured me hes good and thats all that matters at the end of the day, being in New York now. So Im thankful to have had him as a coach.

The Grizzlies decided to give J.B. Bickerstaff a legitimate chance to implement his own style of play as the full-time head coach and made some small but significant roster changes this summer. Memphis used that well-earned lottery pick on promising big man Jaren Jackson Jr., poached a first-round talent in the second round in Jevon Carter, signed free agent Kyle Anderson away from San Antonio and traded for a solid, defensive-minded guard and great locker-room presence in Garrett Temple.

None of those moves compares to getting back Conley, whose value to the team was never more apparent than when Memphis lost 55 of 70 games without him. Conley, who turns 31 in October, will be in the third year of a five-year, $150 million contract next season and is eager to show how much he has improved from his last full season. Though limited to half-court and one-on-one drills, Conley offered an encouraging sign that he isnt far off from regaining his old form through a video of him jumping to touch near the top of the backboard.

Were doing the right things. Taking things slow. And giving me time to really be ready to go for training camp. Mentally, Im there. Im ready. Physically, I feel good. Its just my body has to catch up, Conley told Yahoo Sports. Being a dad, being low-key out of the way, it gave me a perspective like, Hey. This is great, I get to spend time with my kids, even though this is a down part of my career. But also at the same time, Ive got a new re-tooled drive.  Knowing that I took care of the issue, we got the issue figured out, hopefully, going forward, I wont have any flare-ups. I can just play basketball like Im used to playing and Ive got a free year, another year, added to my career, so Im excited.

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It all seemed so easy: With questions about Josh Gordons availability and the trade of Corey Coleman, the Cleveland Browns could use a receiver and Dez Bryant was unsigned. That should be an easy fit.

But Bryant to the Browns hasnt happened yet and it doesnt seem imminent. One report on Tuesday said the Browns feel that Bryant isnt interested in joining them.

[Yahoo Fantasy Football leagues are open: Sign up now for free]

ESPNs Josina Anderson said, according to a source of hers with the team, theres an impression they have that Bryant is not seriously interested in coming to Cleveland.

Former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant remains unsigned. (AP)

Why hasnt Dez Bryant signed with the Browns?

While it was easy to connect dots and wonder if the Browns trading Coleman to the Buffalo Bills for practically nothing was done to free up space for Bryant, Andersons source said that was not the case.

Its easy to see why the Browns feel like Bryant isnt interested. They are interested in signing Bryant but no visit has been scheduled and the situation is in a holding pattern, according to NFL Networks Ian Rapoport. All teams will play their first preseason game by the end of the week, so there should be some urgency for Bryant to get into a camp. Yet, the Browns wait for an answer.

Who will Bryant end up with?

Bryants free agency has been unusual. The Cowboys cut him more than a month after free agency started, which didnt do him any favors. With his options more limited than if the Cowboys had made the move in February or early March, Bryant has waited for the right fit. He has claimed before he has opportunities.

The only known offer to Bryant was turned down. Bryant declined a multi-year deal from the Baltimore Ravens, reportedly because he wants a one-year deal so he can hit free agency again next March.

Its unclear why Bryant hasnt taken a visit with the Browns. Maybe hes waiting for a contender to call, perhaps after an injury in preseason. Whatever the reason, Bryant remains a free agent.

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Presumably at some point Bryant will sign, perhaps with the Browns if nothing better comes along and they remain interested. Hes no longer the Pro Bowl player he was a few years ago, but he is better than many receivers on NFL rosters right now. But the closer we get to the start of the regular season, Bryants options might become even more limited.

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Frank Schwab is a writer for Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at shutdown.corner@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!


HONOLULU (AP)  Students from Hawaii have gathered with students in Japan at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima to remember the atomic bombings and to promote peace.

Two students each from Punahou School and Farrington High School in Honolulu traveled to Japan as peace scholars for the anniversary of the Aug. 6, 1945 U.S. bombing of Hiroshima, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported Monday.

Hawaii residents Hiromi Peterson and Naomi Hirano-Omizo, who wrote "Adventures in Japanese," have funded the Hiroshima Peace Scholars program with their royalties from the Japanese-language textbooks, which are used in high schools across the U.S.

The project by the two longtime Punahou School teachers entered its 10th year and selected two public school students for the first time in addition to the Punahou students.

The four students plus a teacher traveled to a sister school in Hiroshima to forge links for peace with other students.

Peterson was born in Hiroshima three years after the blast. Hirano-Omizo, the granddaughter of a Japanese immigrant, grew up on the Big Island.

"I hear the same words from both Pearl Harbor victims and Hiroshima victims: 'I just don't want the same thing to happen to anyone else,'" Peterson said. "If we pass our message to the young people, I hope the seeds of peace will come up, here and there. At least it's better than doing nothing."

The students stay with Japanese families, speak with survivors and attend the memorial.

"This is a really good way to not forget about what happened, to come to an understanding and be able to move forward instead of having history repeat itself," Punahou senior Eden Chun said last week before leaving for the 10-day trip.

___

Information from: Honolulu Star-Advertiser, http://www.staradvertiser.com
By Steve Gorman (Reuters) - The destructive lava eruption at the foot of Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii has slowed to a virtual halt in recent days for the first time in over three months, geologists said on Monday, although it was too soon to tell what might happen next. The lone volcanic fissure that was still active last week has dwindled from a fountain of molten rock to a bubbling pond of lava no longer spilling out of the blackened cone surrounding it, said Tina Neal, chief scientist at the U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Levels of sulfur dioxide gas vented from the fissure, located on the lower east flank of Kilauea, about 25 miles (40 km) from its summit crater, have also dropped dramatically, she said. The subdued activity there coincided with another major collapse in the outer wall of the summit crater last Thursday, followed by a final flurry of earthquakes before the peak of the volcano grew still. "The system appears to have almost shut down completely over the course of a couple of days," Neal told reporters on a conference call. She said it was "all consistent with something turning off the spigot to the surface." At this point, the volcanic reservoir at the bottom of the summit crater appeared "significantly drained" of magma - the term for molten rock before it erupts - that was feeding the lava vents downslope at the surface. At the height of Kilauea's current eruption, which began on May 3, a total of two dozen fissures had opened in the ground at the foot of the volcano, in an area scientists call the lower east rift zone. But only one vent, dubbed Fissure 8, was still active last week. It was a river of lava from Fissure 8 that had crept eastward to the ocean, engulfing two seaside housing developments before pouring into the Pacific. Hundreds more dwellings have been swallowed closer to the eruption site. The property losses marked the most destructive eruption event of Kilauea or any other volcano in Hawaii's recorded history. Neal said it remains to be seen whether the reduced flow at Fissure 8 will turn out to be a brief pause or an extended lull, or whether other vents will reactivate. A similar 88-day eruption in the lower east rift zone in 1955 was punctuated by one pause of five days and one lasting 16 days, Neal said. Neal said scientists would be surprised if the summit crater produced any new major eruptions in the near future. The current shift in volcanic activity happened as Hurricane Hector churned across the Pacific toward Hawaii, with forecasters predicting it would skirt past the southern coast of the Big Island on Wednesday. Neal said the storm would have no effect on the volcano, except for the possibility of large steam clouds producing "white-out" conditions in areas where heavy rain falls on top of molten lava that has yet to thoroughly cool. (Reporting by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Editing by Paul Tait)
A man walks by damaged buildings in the town of Douma in April 2018, the site of a suspected chemical weapons attack - AP

A Syrian rebel group has claimed it killed the director of a government chemical weapons programme research facility in a car bombing.

Aziz Asber, director of the Syrian Scientific Research Centre, died near the city of Homs when explosives planted in his car went off, pro-regime newspaper Al-Watan reported Sunday.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a monitoring group, said the attack took place on Saturday.

The Abu Amara Brigades rebel group claimed responsibility in a statement posted on its Telegram channel, saying it it detonated "planted explosive devices" in Mr Asber's vehicle.

The group is an affiliate of Islamist group Tahrir al-Sham, which is itself linked with al-Qaeda.

The government denies it possesses chemical weapons, and denies the claims that it killed hundreds of people in rebel-held areas using chemical agents.

Al-Watan blamed Israel for Mr Asber's killing.

The chemical weapons watchdog said it found no evidence of nerve gas after an April attack on Douma, but chlorine may have been used Credit: AFP PHOTO / SYRIA CIVIL DEFENCE

An Israeli official refused to comment on the report, according to Reuters.

Israel has carried out air strikes in Syria to block weapons transfers to the Lebanese militant group Hizbollah, which is supporting the Syrian government's campaign against rebels.

Western governments claim the research centre was a covert government facility. It had been targeted by air strikes last year, which the Syrian government said were carried out by Israel.

The US Britain, and France struck another research facility in Damascus in April in response to a gas attack in Douma that killed more than 40 people.

It was the second major Western intervention against the regime, following several chemical weapons attack during the civil war, which has been ongoing since 2011.

Syria chemical weapons

A UN investigation held the government of Bashar al-Assad responsible for a sarin attack on the then rebel bastion Khan Sheikhoun in April 2017, which killed about 100 people.

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The worst attack, also blamed on the government, was in 2013, when about 1,000 people died in a sarin attack in a rebel-held area in the suburbs of Damascus, the capital.

Assad's forces, backed by Russia, Iran, and Hizbollah, have regained most of the rebel-held territories across the country.

The fighting in Syria has led to one of the worst modern humanitarian disasters, with more than 10 million people forced to flee their homes.
Paris (AFP) - Torrid temperatures across much of France have made the past few weeks unbearable for many, but with grape harvests kicking off this week, the country's winemakers say the heat could not have come at a better time.

"Grape vines like the sun," said Bernard Farges, president of the wine grower's association for the Bordeaux and Bordeaux Superieur appellations.

"It rained a lot last spring in nearly all winegrowing regions, especially in the south... so the vines aren't suffering from the drought," he said.

Agriculture Minister Stephane Travert told AFP on Monday that this year's grape output was expected to be "higher than average" after production was hit by weather-related losses last year.

Quality-wise, 2018 should also be a good vintage, he said.

Many growers were worried about another year of anaemic production after a series of hailstorms battered fields across France in May.

Besides damaging the fresh shoots, the storms left damp conditions in their wake which increased cases of damaging mould as summer temperatures rose -- a problem in particular for the increasing number of growers shunning pesticides.

The recent dry heat has helped most vineyards fight off the mould but without growers feeling the need to harvest the grapes early to avoid the sun shrivelling up the fruit.

So far only parts of the Champagne and Alsace regions in the northeast are planning early harvests later this month.

"So far things are looking good overall, the vines are in excellent health, the grapes are maturing normally for a harvest which is nonetheless extremely early," said Frederic Bach, head of the Alsace winegrowers' association.

In the southern region of Fitou along the Mediterranean, usually one of the first to begin harvesting, this year's harvest which began on Tuesday came two weeks later than last year's.

Europe's wine production dropped to levels unseen since World War II last year as extreme weather hit top producers Italy, France, Spain and Germany.

A late cold snap in the Bordeaux region last year, for example, slashed the 2017 harvest by 40 percent.
Michael Peck

Security, Asia

"Hiroshima should teach Trump and Kim that even if history does not always reach a verdict, it always conducts a trial."

What Hiroshima Can Teach Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un

It has been 73 years since an atomic bomb destroyed Hiroshima, and have Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un learned anything?

When a U.S. president threatens to rain "fire and fury" on North Korea, the unspoken menace is of atomic hellfire. When the Dear Leader of North Korea says the nuclear launch button is "always on my table," he signals that the next Korean War will be announced by mushroom clouds.

There have been statesmen, such as Churchill and Truman, that have studied and learned from history. Trump and Kim are not among them. And that's dangerous, because nuclear war is the last thing that we want to learn about through practical experience.

So what can Hiroshima teach Trump and Kim?

First, nuclear weapons are not theoretical. Many of today's conventional weapons, from stealth fighters to hypersonic missiles, are unknown quantities. For the most part, we don't know how they will perform in combat. But we have two well-documented examples of what happens when nuclear weapons explode over a city. The bombs that leveled Hiroshima and Nagasaki only had a force of 15 to 20 kilotons, less than the 120 kilotons of a 2017 North Korean nuclear test, and not even one-fiftieth of the 1.2-megaton yield of a modern U.S. B83 warhead. Should there be any nuclear explosions on the Korean peninsula (not to mention Japan or the West Coast of the United States), the effects would be horrific. Neither Trump nor Kim will have the right to claim they didn't know the consequences of their decisions.

Hiroshima can also teach the consequences of misperception. The jury of history will never reach a verdict on whether the U.S. was justified in dropping two atomic bombs on Japan. There will always be arguments over whether Japan would have surrendered anyway if the bombs had not been dropped. But what does seem clear is that America and Japan misunderstood signals from each other, didn't understand their opponent's psychology and domestic politics, and therefore couldn't make optimum decisions. The result was 300,000 victims and two seared patches of earth.

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Perhaps the Bomb needed to have been used against Japan, and -- heaven forbid -- perhaps it will need to be used in a Second Korean War. But to use nuclear weapons for the wrong reasons -- because one leader needs to be perceived as tough, or another believes that nuclear weapons will save his regime from invasion or collapse -- would be a mistake of the highest magnitude. If the Bomb is be dropped for the first time in nearly a century, the decision should be made with a clear assessment of the enemy, and a firm grasp of the goals to be achieved.

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Finally, Hiroshima should teach Trump and Kim that even if history does not always reach a verdict, it always conducts a trial. One reason that nuclear weapons were never used in the Cold War was that no one in the White House or Kremlin wanted to be remembered as the leader who started World War Three. Even today, it is noteworthy that while Americans mark some World War II anniversaries -- D-Day, V-E Day, V-J Day -- there is no celebration of bombing Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

If Trump or Kim choose to use nuclear weapons -- for good reasons or bad -- they will not be remembered kindly.

Michael Peck is a contributing writer for the National Interest. He can be found on Twitter and Facebook.

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Principal and students with models of buses to arrive soon
Earth may be decades away from a climatic tipping point that triggers runaway global warming and threatens the future of humanity, scientists have warned.

The threshold will be reached when average global temperatures are only around 2C higher than they were in pre-industrial times, new research suggests. They are currently 1C higher, and rising.

Feedback mechanisms acting like a row of dominoes will then spin the world into a Hothouse Earth state of uncontrollable climate change.

Long term, the Hothouse Earth climate will stabilise at a global average of 4C-5C above pre-industrial levels, the study says.

Runaway global warming could be triggered within decades, say scientists (Picture: PA)

If that happened, swathes of the planet around the equator will become uninhabitable, with sea levels up to 60 metres (197ft) higher than they are today threatening coastal cities.

A Hothouse Earth would pose severe risks for health, economies, political stability, and ultimately, the habitability of the planet for humans, the international scientists wrote in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

The research highlighted 10 feedback processes that were predicted to kick in at around 2C of global warming.

The tipping elements could turn natural carbon storage systems or sinks into powerful greenhouse gas emitters.

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Professor Johan Rockstrom, a leading member of the team from the University of Stockholm, Sweden, said: These tipping elements can potentially act like a row of dominoes. Once one is pushed over, it pushes Earth towards another. It may be very difficult or impossible to stop the whole row of dominoes from tumbling over.

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Places on Earth will become uninhabitable if Hothouse Earth becomes the reality.

The tipping point dangers were identified as thawing permafrost, the release of methane trapped on the ocean floor, weakening land and ocean carbon sinks, increased carbon dioxide production by ocean bacteria, Amazon rainforest die-back, coniferous forest die-back, reduced northern hemisphere snow cover, loss of Arctic summer sea ice, reduced Antarctic sea ice and melting polar ice sheets.

A Hothouse Earth is on the horizon, according to researchers (Picture: Rex)

The scientists wrote: Our analysis suggests that the Earth system may be approaching a planetary threshold that could lock in a continuing rapid pathway toward much hotter conditions  Hothouse Earth. This pathway would be propelled by strong, intrinsic, biogeophysical feedbacks difficult to influence by human actions, a pathway that could not be reversed, steered or substantially slowed.

Where such a threshold might be is uncertain, but it could be only decades ahead at a temperature rise of (around) 2C above pre-industrial.

Avoiding a Hothouse Earth would require deep cuts in greenhouse gas emissions as well as concerted efforts to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, both by preserving natural carbon sinks and using technology, said the researchers.

Commenting on the findings, climate researcher Dr Phil Williamson, from the University of East Anglia, said: In the context of the summer of 2018, this is definitely not a case of crying wolf, raising a false alarm. The wolves are now in sight.

Chris Rapley, Professor of Climate Science at University College London said: Previous research has shown that an increase in the mean global temperature of 11-12C would make more than half of the land area currently occupied by humans uninhabitable. So, a runaway warming to a new and uncontrollable hot state would represent an existential threat to humanity and the majority of existing species.
Peshtan (Albania) (AFP) - Threats, poisoned dogs and massacred trees: Albania's forests are gripped by a war over truffles, the prized and pricey fungi known in this poor European country as "black gold".

Evgjeni Pano, a 28-year-old truffle hunter, sets off every morning into Albania's southern mountains with her husband and woolly-haired dogs, Lajka and Boss, who are trained to track down the pungent culinary delights and gently unearth them from beneath the soil.

Pano sells most of the bounty to foreign traders from Italy and France -- the traditional provenance of the knobby, subterranean delicacy relished by the world's gourmands.

The way of life may sound idyllic: a day's haul of one kilogramme (2.2 pounds) of black truffles can bring home 50 euros ($58). White truffles, a rare and even more highly treasured variety, can be sold for up to 140 euros.

Those are enviable sums in a country where the average monthly salary is below 400 euros, and even lower in rural areas.

But the work is no walk in the park.

Pano and other Albanian truffle hunters describe dicey turf wars in the country's forests, with competitors bullying rivals and ruthlessly targeting their expensive dogs.

Pano recounted how, one day, a group of men "blocked her on the road and threatened" her if she continued to search on a tract of wild land they claimed as their own.

She reported the incident to police and returned the following morning to prove that she would not be easily deterred from work she describes as a "deep and emotional passion".

But others have been forced to give up the trade, such as Besmi Lami, who used to spend his days scouring the forest floor on Dajti mountain, which looms above Tirana.

That came to a tragic end late last year after suspected competitors poisoned his two dachshunds.

"They followed me, found the place (where I foraged) and to make me flee they killed my two dogs," he told AFP, struggling to hold back tears as his hands trembled.

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- Ravaged tree roots -

A lack of regulations has also put Albania's trees -- and therefore the truffles themselves -- in peril, with reckless hunters attacking the land with pickaxes and sharp spades.

The truffle trade took root in Albania a decade ago, when Italians came to search for the mushrooms on the other side of the Adriatic Sea.

Once plentiful in Albania, truffles are now becoming increasingly difficult to find, said Pano, blaming the use of axes that damage the tree roots on which the fungus grows.

"A ruined tree does not produce (truffles) any more," she said, adding that she would like authorities to introduce strict licensing and taxes to control the trade.

"In Albania... truffles are not cultivated or protected, and there is no prevention or awareness to avoid damaging them," explained her husband Panajot Pano, 39, who returned to Albania to truffle-hunt after nearly two decades living and working abroad.

In some parts of the country, such as Divjake-Karavasta National Park in the west, the situation has become "disastrous for the mushroom," said Adrian Koci, the park's director.

In June, he brought two men to the police for using a pickaxe in the forest.

But, with no laws on the books banning the practice, they were quietly released.

- Cultivating a local appetite -

"We are worried as well... but without clear rules" we cannot act against unscrupulous pickers, said Agim Hoxha, a forestry official in the town of Fier, south of Divjake-Karavasta park.

"That would be like entering someone's house without the search warrant," he told AFP.

An official from the environment ministry, Ylli Hoxha, said work is under way to develop a more "precise legal framework" for harvesting truffles.

In the meantime, the market is in "chaos", said Enea Ristani, a 27-year-old who forages for the fungus with his father.

The business draws "many foreigners, such as Italians, Greeks, Romanians, French", he added.

Most of the truffles go abroad too, often for western Europe, where they can fetch 10 times the price.

Eager to keep more of the profits on Albanian soil, Ristani and his father recently opened a gourmet truffle shop in Tirana, with hopes of cultivating a local appetite for the expensive treat.

They already sell homemade truffle sauce, crisps and brandy.

"Soon also beer," says Ristani.
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Hurricane John formed off of Mexico's Pacific coast on Monday, but the storm was projected to move parallel to the coast before wheeling off into the Pacific Ocean later this week, the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) said. John packed maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour (120 km per hour) and was expected to strengthen into a major hurricane by late Tuesday or early Wednesday, the Miami-based NHC said. There are currently no coastal watches or warnings in effect. John was located about 320 miles (510 km) southwest of Cabo Corrientes, Mexico, and 435 miles (700 km) south of the southern tip of Baja California as of 0300 GMT. It was moving toward the northwest at 8 mph (13 kph). "Swells generated by John are expected to begin affecting the coasts of southwestern Mexico and the southern portion of the Baja California peninsula during the next day or so," the NHC said. The swells are likely to cause "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions," it added. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 25 miles (35 km) from the center of the storm and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 105 miles (165 km). (Reporting by Anthony Esposito; Editing by Sandra Maler and Christian Schmollinger)
BOGOTA, Colombia (AP)  Colombia's youngest elected president was sworn in to office Tuesday, promising to "make corrections" to a peace deal with leftist rebels that has divided the country and to crack down on lingering armed groups still roaming the countryside.

Ivan Duque, the 42-year-old protege of a powerful right-wing former president, now faces the task of implementing the historic accord with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia that ended a half century bloody conflict, but which remains on shaky ground. He will also have to deal with burgeoning coca and cocaine production that has strained relations with key ally Washington and negotiate a peace with a holdout guerrilla army.

"The moment has come for all of us to unite to fight against illegal groups," Duque said in his inauguration speech to more than a dozen heads of state, promising to get tough on crime, drug trafficking groups and other armed and rebel groups.

The new president said he believed in "the demobilization, disarmament and reinsertion of the guerrilla base" into society under the accord with the FARC. But he added that "we will make corrections to ensure that the victims receive truth, proportional justice, reparations and not a repetition" after a conflict that left at least 260,000 dead, some 60,000 missing and millions displaced.

In another nod to conservatives who have demanded tougher negotiation terms with rebel groups, Duque said he will push for a constitutional reform that makes it impossible for the government to grant amnesty to individuals who have been involved in drug trafficking and kidnappings.

Duque will have to lead peace negotiations with the National Liberation Army, a guerrilla army of some 2,000 fighters that began talks with Duque's predecessor, Juan Manuel Santos. He said the talks with the ELN will hinge on whether the group ceases its attacks on Colombia's military and accepts international monitoring.

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"We have to construct a culture that respects the rule of law," Duque said as he spoke on a large blue stage on Bogota's largest public square.

Duque's detractors fear he will be little more than a puppet for Alvaro Uribe, the ex-president who led a referendum defeat of the initial version of a peace accord with the FARC rebels. Uribe is still backed by millions of Colombians, though he is perhaps equally detested by legions who decry human rights abuses during his administration.

On Tuesday, hours before the inauguration ceremony, thousands gathered at public squares in Bogota and a dozen more cities across Colombia to express their opposition to Duque. At the rallies, protesters bore white flags and signs that called for the preservation of the peace deal.

"We are ready for dialogue," said opposition Sen. Ivan Cepeda, one of Duque's and Uribe's fiercest critics. "But we are also ready to mobilize and exert our opposition if he enacts policies that limit peoples' rights."

Duque is taking office as a spate of attacks and the killings of social activists have underlined that peace remains a relative term.

On Monday night, a motorcycle bomb exploded outside a police station in the western province of Cauca. The National Liberation Army, a smaller guerrilla group that is still in peace talks, last week kidnapped three policemen and a soldier in an attack that highlighted the government's struggle to bring law and order to Colombia's most remote areas.

"If Duque is not able to solve this problem and find a way to bring the state into the countryside, we're going to keep having the same problems we've had for decades," said Jorge Gallego, a professor at Colombia's Rosario University.

The new president has promised a harder line against drug trafficking that includes bringing back the aerial fumigation of coca crops, a policy that was stopped by Santos' administration three years ago over health concerns, but is supported by the U.S. government. Cocaine production has doubled in Colombia over the past two years, according to U.S. government estimates.

Duque has undergone a quick transformation from unknown technocrat to president of South America's second most populous nation, thanks in large part to the support of Uribe.

Just four years ago, Duque was a Washington suburbanite with a job at an international development bank. It was there that he developed close ties to Uribe, assisting the former president when he taught a course at Georgetown University. In 2014, Uribe propelled Duque into the political limelight when he encouraged him to return to Colombia to run for a Senate seat and placed him on a list of newcomer candidates that he urged his multitude of supporters to elect.

Within Uribe's conservative Democratic Center party, Duque's reputation as a more moderate voice can at times put him at odds with the solidly right-wing faction. Uribe's support is thus considered crucial for Duque to rule with the full backing of his party. But he will need to build a broader alliance to pass laws in Congress.

In the weeks since his easy victory over leftist ex-guerrilla Gustavo Petro, Duque has signaled both his loyalty to Uribe and a conviction to chart his own path. While many of his Cabinet picks have ties to Uribe, there are also a number with no links to a traditional political party.

"So far I think he has shown more independence than some sectors believed," Gallego said. "Treating Duque as a puppet of Uribe is a very simplistic way of analyzing things."
By Kanupriya Kapoor KAYANGAN, Indonesia (Reuters) - The death toll from a powerful earthquake that hit Indonesia's tourist island of Lombok topped 100 on Tuesday as rescuers found victims under wrecked buildings, while thousands left homeless in the worst-affected areas waited for aid to arrive. A woman was pulled alive from the rubble of a collapsed grocery store in the north, near the epicenter of Sunday's 6.9 magnitude quake, the second tremor to rock the tropical island in a week. That was a rare piece of good news as hopes of finding more survivors faded and a humanitarian crisis loomed for thousands left homeless by the disaster in the rural area and in desperate need of clean water, food, medicine and shelter. Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, the spokesman of Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency (BNPB) put the toll at 105, including two on the neighboring island of Bali to the west, where the quake was also felt - and the figure was expected to rise. Lombok had already been hit by a 6.4 magnitude earthquake on July 29 that killed 17 people and briefly stranded several hundred trekkers on the slopes of a volcano. Indonesia sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire and is regularly hit by earthquakes. In 2004, the Indian Ocean tsunami killed 226,000 people in 13 countries, including more than 120,000 in Indonesia. (For graphic on earthquake in Indonesia's Lombok, click https://tmsnrt.rs/2OfAvrV) THOUSANDS SCATTERED ON HILLS Few buildings were left standing in Kayangan on the island's northern end, where residents told Reuters that as many as 40 died. Some villagers used sledgehammers and ropes to start clearing the rubble of broken homes, but others, traumatized by continued aftershocks, were too afraid to venture far from tents and tarpaulins set up in open spaces. There has been little government relief for the area, where the greatest need is for water and food, as underground water sources have been blocked by the quake and shops destroyed or abandoned. About 75 percent of the north has been without electricity since Sunday, officials said, and some communities were hard to reach because bridges were damaged and trees, rocks and sand lay across roads cracked wide open in places by the tremor. "Thousands of people moved to scattered locations," Sutopo told a news conference in Jakarta. "People have moved to the hillsides where they feel safer. It's difficult for help to reach them. We advise people to come down and move closer to the camps." Aid agency Oxfam said it was providing clean drinking water and tarpaulin shelters to 5,000 survivors, but the need was much greater, with more than 20,000 estimated to have been displaced. "Thousands ... are under open skies in need of drinking water, food, medical supplies, and clothes," it said in a statement. "Clean drinking water is scarce due to the extremely dry weather." Villagers in Pemenang on Lombok's northwestern shoulder heard cries for help emerging from the mangled concrete of a collapsed minimart on Tuesday and alerted rescuers. Four hours later they pulled out alive Nadia Revanale, 23. "First we used our hands to clear the debris, then hammers, chisels and machines," Marcos Eric, a volunteer, told Reuters. "It took many hours but we're thankful it worked and this person was found alive." Rescuers heard a weak voice coming from under the wreckage of a nearby two-storey mosque, where four people were believed to have been trapped when the building pancaked. "We are looking for access. We have a machine that can drill or cut through concrete, so we may use that. We are waiting for heavier equipment," Teddy Aditya, an official of the Indonesian Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), told Reuters. TOURIST EXODUS Thousands of tourists have left Lombok since Sunday evening, fearing further earthquakes, some on extra flights added by airlines and some on ferries to Bali. Officials said about 4,600 foreign and domestic tourists had been evacuated from the three Gili islands off the northwest coast of Lombok, where two people died and fears of a tsunami spread soon after the quake. Saffron Amis, a British student on Gili Trawangan - the largest of the islands fringed by white beaches and surrounded by turquoise sea - said at least 200 people were stranded there with more flowing in from the other two, Gili Air and Gili Meno. "We still have no wi-fi and very little power. Gili Air has run out of food and water so they have come to us," she told Reuters in a text message, adding later that she had been taken by boat to the main island en route to Bali. (Additional reporting by Angie Teo and by Agustinus Beo Da Costa,; Fransiska Nangoy and Fanny Potkin in JAKARTA; Writing by John Chalmers; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
Johannesburg (AFP) - Newly-elected President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared Zimbabwe "open for business" -- but analysts say that reversing the disastrous investor exodus of the Mugabe years will require more than words of encouragement.

Considered one of southern Africa's most promising economies when Robert Mugabe took over in 1980, it was one of the most isolated economies in the world by the time his 37-year rule ended last year.

Agricultural output plummeted after his regime started seizing white-owned farms in 2000, and he presided over hyperinflation so drastic it prompted the printing of a 100-trillion-dollar note.

But Mnangagwa, the former Mugabe ally who replaced him with army backing in November, has made Zimbabwe's biggest overtures towards the West in years.

"We want to leapfrog and catch up with other developing countries," he said Friday after winning an election marred by deadly violence and opposition claims of fraud.

Despite the havoc Mugabe wreaked on the economy -- overseeing the sharpest peacetime contraction of GDP in world history -- some investors see rich potential.

"Zimbabwe's has had such a tarnished reputation over the past few generations that very few people have looked at it, but the interest has always been there," said Robert Besseling, executive director of risk consultancy EXX Africa.

Some are eyeing its bounteous natural resources -- the second-biggest platinum reserves in the world, as well as other minerals, coal and diamonds.

Others are hunting for opportunities in the recovering agriculture sector, notably tobacco, or predicting a consumer boom in its 16 million-strong population.

Hafez Ghanem, the World Bank's vice-president for Africa, told Bloomberg last week that Zimbabwe could become "an upper middle-income country" in a decade.

Jack Ma, the billionaire founder of Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba, visited last week -- apparently on vacation, though it did not stop state media speculating he was scouting for opportunities.

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- Mnangagwa, an unknown quantity -

Yet even keen investors are daunted by the array of economic problems Zimbabwe faces as well as the possibility of more Mugabe-style repression, despite Mnangagwa's insistence that the country has turned a page.

Millions have fled abroad in search of work, and those who stayed still face mass unemployment. Public services are in ruins, corruption is endemic, and infrastructure crumbling.

Charles Laurie of analysts Verisk Maplecroft said that until the election, Mnangagwa was progressing well in his efforts to woo investors.

He reversed much of a law forcing foreign firms to cede 51 percent stakes to locals, and offered compensation to white farmers stripped of their land.

But that was before troops opened fire in Harare on Wednesday on demonstrators alleging the election had been rigged, leaving six people dead.

The opposition MDC party, which disputes the vote results, has since complained that its members are being targeted with abductions and criminal charges.

"For investors who are low on trust with Mnangagwa and searching for signs of his true colours, this rapid return to violent means to achieve his objectives is going to shake investor confidence," Laurie said.

"It conjures up images that if the tables were slightly turned, indeed it could be these investors who are the target of the Zimbabwe government."

- Tough decisions ahead -

Beyond politics, Mnangagwa has major money problems.

His cash-strapped government owes some $1.7 billion in arrears to the World Bank and African Development Bank, and cannot get new loans until they are paid off.

Companies hoping for lucrative contracts to rebuild the transport, water and power infrastructure Mugabe left in ruins face a government that, for now, will struggle to pay them.

The currency crisis is another major issue.

Zimbabwe has mainly used the US dollar since scrapping its own currency in 2009 to halt hyperinflation under which prices doubled every day.

But dollars remain scarce, and a little-trusted token currency known as "bond notes", introduced two years ago, has done little to improve the situation.

Analysts say the government will at some point have to bring in a proper currency again -- and that this could prove messy, a prospect not lost on investors.

To get new loans from the multilateral banks it will likely also have to agree to tough structural changes, such as tax hikes or cuts to the massive public sector.

"For risk-wary investors, neighbouring countries offer a safer and more attractive investment environment," said Laurie.

Besseling added that progress is likely to be slow.

"The one-year outlook: we could potentially still be where we are today," he said.

"But considering the huge potential, you're going to see great successes in Zimbabwe over a 10-year outlook," he predicted.
Tehran (AFP) - US President Donald Trump warned the world Tuesday against doing business with Iran as Washington reimposed "the most biting sanctions ever" on the Islamic republic, triggering a mix of anger, fear and defiance in Tehran.

Trump's May withdrawal from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with Tehran had spooked investors and triggered a run on the Iranian rial long before the punishing sanctions went back into force.

The newly reimposed sanctions, which target access to US banknotes and key industries such as cars and carpets, were unlikely to cause immediate economic turmoil.

Iran's markets were actually relatively buoyant, with the rial strengthening by 20 percent since Sunday after the government relaxed foreign exchange rules and allowed unlimited, tax-free gold and currency imports.

But the second tranche of sanctions, which kicks in on November 5 and targets Iran's vital oil sector, could be far more damaging -- even if several key customers such as China, India and Turkey have refused to significantly cut their purchases.

"The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level," Trump wrote on Twitter.

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less."

European governments -- who signed the Iran nuclear deal along with Washington -- are infuriated by Trump's strategy that has prompted many of their large firms to leave Iran for fear of US penalties.

Within hours of the sanctions taking effect, German carmaker Daimler said it had "suspended our already limited activities in Iran in accordance with the applicable sanctions."

Trump said Monday that he was open to new talks to reach a "more comprehensive deal" with Iran.

"We want to see a much broader retreat by Iran from their support for international terrorism, their belligerent military activity in the Middle East and their ballistic missile, nuclear-related programs," National Security Advisor John Bolton told Fox News.

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"There's a lot going on here that Iran needs to be held accountable for."

But Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has dismissed the idea of talks while sanctions are in effect, and accused America of waging "psychological warfare."

In Tehran, residents were on edge.

"I feel like my life is being destroyed," said one construction worker on the streets of the capital. "I can't afford to buy food, pay the rent."

- 'Not got this right' -

The return of US sanctions left some of Washington's partners unimpressed.

British Foreign Office Minister Alastair Burt said that the "Americans have really not got this right."

The nuclear deal was important "not only to the region's security but the world's security," he told the BBC.

Russia's foreign ministry said it was "deeply disappointed" by the return of sanctions, adding that it would do "everything necessary" to save the 2015 nuclear deal.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters that the global reaction to Trump's move showed that the US was diplomatically isolated.

- 'Poison cup' -

Most Iranians see US hostility as a basic fact of life, so their frustration is largely directed at their own leaders for not handling the situation better.

"Prices are rising again, but the reason is government corruption, not US sanctions," said Ali, a 35-year-old decorator in Tehran.

Long-running discontent over high prices, unemployment, water shortages and the lack of political reform has sparked numerous protests over the past week, though verifiable information is scarce due to heavy reporting restrictions.

Many hope and believe that Iran's leaders will "drink the poison cup" and negotiate with the US eventually.

There have been rumours that Trump and Rouhani could meet in New York in September on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly -- though Rouhani reportedly rejected US overtures for a meeting at last year's event.

Iran's regional rivals Israel and Saudi Arabia have welcomed the tough new US policy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the renewed sanctions as "an important moment for Israel, for the US, for the region, for the whole world."

Iran's currency has lost around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the nuclear pact, but has surged since Sunday, following the arrest of the central bank's currency chief and new plans being announced.

The new rules mean foreign exchange bureaus will reopen after an attempt to fix the value of the rial in April backfired spectacularly, with corrupt traders making a fortune out of a mushrooming black market.

Ali Vaez, Iran project director for the International Crisis Group, told AFP that the sanctions would inflict "significant harm" on the Iranian economy.

"But this is not the first time that the Iranian leadership is dealing with sanctions," Vaez said.

"I doubt that in the next two years we would see the collapse of the government or the regime in Tehran."
TEHRAN, Iran (AP)  As Iranians awoke Tuesday to renewed U.S. sanctions that had been lifted by Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers, the question on everyone's mind remained: What happens now?

From deciphering President Donald Trump's tweets on Iran  including one demanding "WORLD PEACE"  to trying to figure out how much their cratering currency is worth, Iranians appear divided on how to respond.

The same goes for their theocratic government, which for now is abiding by the atomic accord. President Hassan Rouhani, a relative moderate whose administration struck the 2015 deal, has taken an increasingly confrontational line in recent weeks, applauded by hard-liners who had long opposed him. Then in a speech on live television Monday night, Rouhani seemed to suggest that direct talks with Trump could be possible.

That's something North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-hu, who visited Tehran on Tuesday and met with its leadership, knows firsthand.

Whether Iran should choose a North Korea-style photo-op with the American president who backed out of the nuclear deal or abandon the unraveling accord and increase its uranium enrichment remains a fiercely debated question in Iran. But everyone agrees something has to be done soon, as sporadic protests across the country of 80 million people only add to the pressure.

"The situation is not good right now; nothing is clear," said Ebrahim Gholamnejad, a 41-year-old carpenter. "The economy is turning into a jungle."

The newly imposed American sanctions target U.S. dollar financial transactions, Iran's automotive sector, and the purchase of commercial planes and metals, including gold. Even stronger sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank are to be re-imposed in early November.

On Tuesday, German car and truck maker Daimler AG said it was suspending its "very limited" activities in Iran and shuttering a representative office. European companies had known since Trump's announcement in May that sanctions were coming back. Airbus at that time suspended plane deliveries to Iran; of 98 orders, only one A321 had been delivered, plus two A330s that were sold to a company that leased them to an Iranian customer.

Story continues

As uncertainty over the Iran nuclear deal grew after Trump entered the White House, Iran's already-anemic economy nosedived. The country's monthly inflation rate has hit double digits again and the national unemployment rate is 12.5 percent. Among youth, it is even worse, with around 25 percent out of a job.

Iran's currency, the rial, now trades over double its government-set rate to the U.S. dollar. Trying to stem the loss, the Iranian government five months ago shut down all private currency exchange shops, but the black market has thrived.

On Tuesday, central bank chief Abdolnasser Hemmati allowed private currency exchanges to reopen. Shops welcomed customers, though some displayed no exchange rates late into the morning amid confusion over how much the troubled rial was truly worth.

Iranian authorities recently arrested 45 people, including the central bank's deputy chief, as part of a crackdown on financial fraud. On Tuesday, Iran's state-controlled television aired a 30-minute documentary applauding the central bank's new economic decisions.

The hard-line Keyhan newspaper, which previously lampooned Rouhani, bore his picture on the front page with a large headline quoting him saying: "The way we can surpass all sanctions is to have unity."

But what to do next remains an open question. Iran continues to abide by the nuclear deal it struck with the Obama administration and other world powers, which limits its enrichment of uranium in exchange for the lifting of sanctions, and makes it impossible for Iran to quickly develop a nuclear weapon. Iran has always said its nuclear program is entirely peaceful.

In recent weeks, Iran has prominently displayed its centrifuges and threatened to resume enriching uranium at higher rates. At one point Rouhani renewed a long-standing Iranian threat to close off the Strait of Hormuz, through which a third of all oil traded by sea passes.

Trump for his part has ricocheted between threats and promises to speak with Iranian officials without preconditions, offering mixed messages to both the Iranian public and its government. That continued Tuesday, as he described American actions in a tweet as "the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level."

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States," he wrote. "I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!"

John Bolton, the U.S. national security adviser, said the intent of sanctions is not to bring about Iranian "regime change."

"But we definitely want to put maximum pressure on the government, and it's not just to come back to discuss fixing a deal that's basically not fixable," Bolton said Tuesday on Fox News. "We want to see a much broader retreat by Iran from their support for international terrorism, their belligerent activity in the Middle East and their ballistic missile, nuclear-related program."

Though Iranians already are angered by Trump putting their nation on his travel ban list, some say talks with the U.S. president might be necessary. Others insist that Iran, which has weathered decades of previous sanctions, should stand its ground.

"I believe America cannot do a damn thing," said Farzaneh, a 54-year-old housewife who declined to give her last name out of privacy concerns. "It can't do anything, because Iranians are backing each other."

Direct talks with the U.S. also would challenge the Islamic Republic leadership, which for nearly 40 years has encouraged flag-burning demonstrations against "the Great Satan." On Tuesday, Ri, the North Korean foreign minister, who was involved in Pyongyang's Singapore talks with Trump, met with Iranian leaders, though it's unclear what he discussed with them.

For now though, Iranians say they can only wait for the next Trump tweet or their government's decision on how to respond.

"People should just keep calm, because the other party wants to disrupt our peace," said Gholamnejad, the carpenter. "America, who imposed the sanctions, wants to create chaos.

___

Associated Press writers Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and David McHugh in Frankfurt, Germany, contributed to this report.
TEHRAN, Iran (AP)  As Iranians awoke Tuesday to renewed U.S. sanctions that had been lifted by Tehran's nuclear deal with world powers, the question on everyone's mind remained: What happens now?

From deciphering President Donald Trump's tweets on Iran  including one demanding "WORLD PEACE"  to trying to figure out how much their cratering currency is worth, Iranians on the streets appear divided on how to respond.

The same goes for inside its theocratic government. President Hassan Rouhani, a relative moderate, has taken an increasingly confrontational line in recent weeks, applauded by the hard-liners who had long opposed him. Meanwhile, Rouhani seemed to suggest on live television the night before that direct talks with Trump could be possible  something of which North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-hu, who visited Tehran on Tuesday, has personal experience.

Whether Iran should choose a Singapore-style photo-op with the American president who backed out of the nuclear deal or abandon the unraveling accord and increase its uranium enrichment remains a fiercely debated question. But everyone agrees something has to be done soon, as sporadic, leaderless protests across the country of 80 million people only add to the pressure.

"Their sanctions are very effective, as you can see, the government should find a solution," said Mahmoud, a 62-year-old former civil servant who only gave his first name. "They should first solve domestic problems because people are really drowning in poverty and misery."

The newly imposed American sanctions target U.S. dollar financial transactions, Iran's automotive sector, and the purchase of commercial planes and metals, including gold. Even-stronger sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank are to be re-imposed in early November.

German car and truck maker Daimler AG on Tuesday said it was suspending its "very limited" activities in Iran and shuttering a representative office. European companies had known since Trump's decision in May that sanctions were coming back. Airbus at that time suspended plane deliveries to Iran; of 98 orders, only one A321 had been delivered, plus two A330s that were sold to a company that leased them to an Iranian customer.

Story continues

As uncertainty over the Iran nuclear deal grew after Trump entered the White House, Iran's already-anemic economy nosedived. The country's monthly inflation rate has hit double digits again and the national unemployment rate is 12.5 percent. Among youth, it is even worse, with around 25 percent out of a job.

Iran's currency, the rial, now trades over double its government-set rate to the U.S. dollar. Trying to stem the loss, the Iranian government five months ago shut down all private currency exchange shops, but the black market has thrived.

On Tuesday, however, new central bank chief Abdolnasser Hemmati allowed private currency exchanges to reopen. Shops welcomed customers, though some displayed no exchange rates late into the morning amid confusion over how much the troubled rial was truly worth.

"The situation is not good right now; nothing is clear," said carpenter Ebrahim Gholamnejad, 41. "The economy is turning into a jungle."

Iranian authorities recently arrested 45 people, including the central bank's deputy chief, as part of a crackdown on financial fraud, according to judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejehi.

On Tuesday, Iran's state-controlled television aired a 30-minute documentary applauding the central bank's new economic decisions. The hard-line Keyhan newspaper, which previously lampooned Rouhani, bore his picture on the front page with a large headline quoting him saying: "The way we can surpass all sanctions is to have unity."

But what to do next remains an open question. Iran continues to abide by the 2015 nuclear deal it struck with the Obama administration and other world powers, which limits its enrichment of uranium in exchange for the lifting of sanctions, and makes it impossible for Iran to quickly develop a nuclear weapon. Iran has always said its nuclear program is entirely peaceful.

In recent weeks, Iran has prominently displayed its centrifuges and threatened to resume enriching uranium at higher rates. Rouhani, whose administration struck the deal, also has taken a harder line himself, at one point renewing a long-standing Iranian threat to close off the Strait of Hormuz, through which a third of all oil traded by sea passes.

Trump for his part has ricocheted between threats and promises to speak with Iranian officials without preconditions, offering mixed messages to both the Iranian public and its government. That continued Tuesday, as he described American actions in a tweet as "the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level."

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States," he wrote. "I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!"

Though Iranians already are angered by Trump putting their nation on his travel ban list, some say talks with the American president might be necessary. Others insist that Iran, which has weathered decades of previous sanctions, should stand its ground.

"I believe America cannot do a damn thing," said Farzaneh, a 54-year-old housewife who declined to give her last name out of privacy concerns. "It can't do anything, because Iranians are backing each other."

Direct talks with the U.S. also would challenge the Islamic Republic leadership, which for nearly 40 years has encouraged flag-burning demonstrations against "the Great Satan." On Tuesday, North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-hu visited Tehran and met its leadership. It's unclear what he discussed with them, though he was involved in Pyongyang's Singapore talks with Trump.

For now though, Iranians say they can only wait for the next Trump tweet or their government's decision on how to respond.

"People should just keep calm, because the other party wants to disrupt our peace," said Gholamnejad, the carpenter. "America, who imposed the sanctions, wants to create chaos."

___

Associated Press writers Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and David McHugh in Frankfurt, Germany, contributed.
Turkish woman receives 20-year sentenced for membership of Islamic State at Baghdad Central Criminal Court - Sam Tarling

An Iraqi court on Monday sentenced a French man and a German woman to life in prison in the latest punishments handed down for belonging to the Islamic State jihadist group.

Frenchman Lahcen Gueboudj, 58, and a German woman whose name was given only as Nadia were sentenced separately at the Baghdad central criminal court.

Nadia's mother, a German woman of Moroccan origin, was sentenced to death in January for Isil membership but the sentence was later commuted to life, which in Iraq is equivalent to 20 years.

The mother and daughter were arrested in July 2017 in Mosul, the jihadists' former de-facto capital in Iraq where the government declared victory over Isil in December last year.

Neekor Israel Abdul Karim, 28, from Uzbekistan is convicted of joining Isil in Baghdad Central Criminal Court, on April 25 Credit: Sam Tarling for The Telegraph

Wearing a black abaya in court, Nadia said she travelled from Syria to Iraq "to run away from the people of IS".

Speaking in German with a few Arabic words, she said she travelled to Syria from Turkey with her mother, her daughter Yamana and her mentally disabled sister who was killed in a bombardment.

Nadia's lawyer stressed that she was a minor at the time and that her marriage to an Isil jihadist in Syria was "not a decision taken by an adult in full conscience".

The French defendant, meanwhile, refuted statements made during his interrogations.

"I signed confessions in Arabic without knowing what was written," said Gueboudj, with short grey hair and stubble, wearing a brown prison uniform.

"I would never have left France, if my eldest son Nabil, 25-years-old, hadn't gone to Syria," he said in French.

"I wanted to convince him to return with us to France," added Gueboudj.

The French citizen had travelled with his wife and children to Turkey before entering Syria, and later being arrested in Iraq.
Jerusalem (AFP) - Israeli Intelligence Minister Yisrael Katz on Tuesday welcomed the killing of a leading Syrian weapons scientist but declined to comment on reports his government was behind the fatal bombing.

General Aziz Asbar, head of a Syrian government weapons research centre, was killed along with his driver when the bomb hit his car on Saturday, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The pro-government Al-Watan newspaper confirmed the killing in the central province of Hama.

Asbar headed the Maysaf research centre in Hama, which was hit by Israeli air strikes last month and in September last year, the Observatory said.

The New York Times on Monday quoted "a senior official from a Middle Eastern intelligence agency" as saying that Israel was behind the assassination.

"We don't of course comment on reports of this kind and I'm not going to comment now," Katz told Israeli army radio.

"I can say that assuming the details of this man's activities are correct and he was engaged in developing chemical weapons and longer-range missiles capable of hitting Israel, I certainly welcome his demise."

An Israeli air strike targeted the research centre on July 22, Syrian state media and the Observatory reported. An Israeli military spokesman declined to comment.

A September 2017 strike caused damage to the centre, when fire broke out at a warehouse where missiles were being stored, the Observatory said.

Israel has carried out numerous strikes inside Syria since 2017, according to the Observatory, targeting government forces and their allies from Iran and Lebanese Shiite militant group Hezbollah.

Early 2017 marked the low point for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his country's now seven-year-old civil war with his authority confined to just 17 percent of national territory.

A succession of victories since then over both the Islamic State group and various rebel factions has extended government control to nearly two-thirds of the country.
MEROM GOLAN, Golan Heights (Reuters) - Israel's defence minister said on Tuesday that Syria was building up its ground forces beyond their pre-civil war size, an assessment that suggests President Bashar al-Assad's army has recovered from a critical manpower shortage earlier in the war. The Syrian military was hit by major defections in the first years of the conflict, which began in 2011, and by 2015 Assad acknowledged that "a shortfall in human capacity" meant the army could not fight everywhere for fear of losing vital ground. Russia intervened militarily soon afterwards to turn the tide of war and has been helping arm and train the Syrian army. Iran has also backed Assad, sending military advisers and allied Shi'ite militia from across the region to support his troops. Pro-government forces in the Syrian conflict have also included local militias raised by the Lebanese Hezbollah with Iranian support, including the National Defence Forces. [8N1NS4H5] "Across the way we see the Syrian military, which is not satisfied with just taking over all of Syrian territory but is expressly building a broad-based, new ground army that will return to its previous proportions and beyond," Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman told reporters during a tour of the Golan Heights. Israel closely monitors the military capacity of Syria, an adversary against which it has fought three wars. It captured part of the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and has occupied it since. With Assad now regaining control, Israel has voiced worry that he might defy a 44-year-old Golan demilitarisation deal that had stabilised their standoff. In a Twitter statement, Lieberman said that Israel's tanks, deployed on parts of the strategic plateau that it captured from Syria in a 1967 war, were "our crushing strike force and will know how to defend the border in any eventuality". In a May interview, Assad also said Syria had improved its air defences with Russian help. The Golan saw large tank battles in 1967 and the subsequent Israel-Syria war in 1973. Israel annexed its side of the Golan in 1981, in a move not recognised internationally. In a July 19 briefing, the chief of Israel's armoured corps told reporters that while the number of Israeli tanks fielded was unlikely to grow, a new, improved tank model would be introduced in 2021. (Writing by Dan Williams and Angus McDowall, Editing by William Maclean)
Gaza City (Palestinian Territories) (AFP) - An Israeli strike on Tuesday killed two militants of the Gaza Strip's ruling Hamas movement after shots were fired at soldiers, Gazan and Israeli officials said.

The Islamist group's military wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, confirmed in a statement that the dead men were its fighters, naming them as Ahmed Murjan and Abdel-Hafez al-Silawi.

It said a series of explosions had targeted a military site while it was being visited by senior leaders, without naming them.

An Israeli military statement, apparently referring to the same incident, said that the army returned fire after shots were fired at its soldiers from a Hamas post in the northern Gaza Strip, next to the border with Israel.

Palestinian security sources said that the Israeli attack was in the north of the strip.

A video distributed by the Israeli army appeared to show a tank striking a military post in the Gaza Strip.

The military said it was prepared "to target any aggression against Israel and holds Hamas responsible for everything happening in and from the Gaza Strip."

It added that no Israeli troops were injured in the exchange.

Hamas warned Israel that it would pay for the attack, without elaborating.

"The resistance cannot allow the occupation to impose a policy of bombing sites and targeting fighters without paying the price," it said in a statement.

Speaking later, Hamas leader Ismail Haniya condemned what he called a "crime."

He said the movement was facing "rapid political and field developments."

Since Palestinian protests and clashes along the Gaza border erupted at the end of March, at least 160 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire.

One Israeli soldier has been shot dead by a Palestinian sniper.

The protests call for Palestinians to be able to return to the land they or their families fled or were expelled from in the 1948 war surrounding the creation of Israel.

Story continues

Israel says any such return would mean its end as a Jewish state.

Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas have fought three wars with Israel since 2008.

The United Nations and Egypt are currently trying to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas for a lasting truce.
GAZA (Reuters) - Israeli tank fire killed two Hamas gunmen in Gaza on Tuesday in a strike the Israeli military described as return fire for a shooting attack against its forces, an account disputed by the Palestinian Islamist group. The two men killed in northern Beit Lahiya were Hamas snipers taking part in a live-fire exercise within a compound on Gazan territory, the group's armed wing said in a statement. It deemed Israel's shelling of them a "criminal act". In an earlier statement, the Israeli military said gunmen had fired on its soldiers from a Hamas post, which was shelled by a tank in response. There was no word of Israeli casualties. The military released footage that it said was of the incident. One of the grainy black and white video clips shows two men in a watchtower, one appears to open fire as puffs of smoke burst in front of him. The video then cuts to separate footage of a shell hitting the post and an explosion. Reuters was immediately unable to verify the footage. U.N. and Egyptian-led efforts are under way to mediate a long-term truce between Israel and Hamas that would end a four-month surge of violence along the Israel-Gaza border. At least 158 Palestinians have been killed in four months of weekly border protests and one Israeli soldier was shot dead by a Gaza sniper. Israel says Hamas, which rules Gaza, is using the protests as cover to carry out cross-border attacks. Hamas denies this. Palestinians militants have also fired rockets into Israel and the Israeli military has carried out dozens of air strikes in the enclave. Israel has lost tracts of farmland and forest to fires started by kites and helium balloons laden with incendiary material which have caused fires in Israeli forests and farmlands and flown over the border by Palestinians in Gaza. (Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi and Maayan Lubell; Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg and Alison Williams)
A collision on Monday, August 6, involving a truck carrying flammable materials, caused a massive explosion that partially collapsed a Bologna highway, killed at least two people, and injured dozens more.

These videos show firefighters battling the blaze on the highway and beneath it, including a helicopter brought in to drop flame suppressors on the fire.

CCTV footage provided by police show a truck plowing into a line of other trucks, with an immediate explosion that covered the entire highway. The Italian news agency ANSA said the highway was closed and would remain closed for some time for repairs.

Italian police reported that 70 people were injured, some with severe burns. Credit: Vigili del Fuoco via Storyful
A tanker truck rear-ended another vehicle on a crowded expressway in the Italian city of Bologna, killing two and injuring up to 70 people in a massive explosion that collapsed part of the highway.

Some of the injured suffered severe burns, authorities said. The midday accident just north of the city created a huge fireball that melted asphalt and created shock waves that shattered windows in a police barracks, injuring some officers.

The Italian news agency ANSA reported the truck was carrying liquefied petroleum gas.

Police video showed the tanker plowing into the back of a truck stopped in traffic. An immediate fire erupted and authorities cleared the highway of most vehicles. A short while later the entire tanker blew up, sending flames across eight lanes of highway and beyond, according to The Associated Press.

After great clouds of black smoke dissipated, a gaping hole could be seen in the expressway.

A woman living more than half a mile away said residents had to flee because of the smoke.

"I was in the house and I heard a huge bang and screams from the window. I saw a huge plume of smoke," Crisina Felicani told Sky TG24. "There was panic in the neighborhood, because it wasn't clear what happened."

The explosion closed a major interchange connecting northern Italy to the Adriatic coast, a popular vacation destination.

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Abidjan (AFP) - Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara on Monday announced amnesties for around 800 people, including former first lady Simone Gbagbo who is currently behind bars, in the name of national reconciliation.

Last week Ivory Coast's Supreme Court overturned an earlier acquittal granted to Gbagbo for crimes against humanity.

The wife of former president Laurent Gbagbo, in power from 2000 to 2010, will "soon be freed," Ouattara said during a televised address to the West African nation on the eve of the country's independence day.

The Ivory Coast was plunged into political violence in the aftermath of a bitterly contested presidential election that pitted Gbagbo against Ouatarra, who eventually won out.

Simone Gbagbo has been serving a 20-year sentence handed to her in 2015 for "endangering state security" for her role in the political violence.

She had been accused of implication in the 2011 shelling of a market in a district of the capital Abidjan that supported Ouattara and for being a member of a "crisis cell" that allegedly coordinated attacks by the armed forces and militias in support of her husband.

Laurent Gbagbo has been in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague for seven years.

Since 2016, he has been tried for alleged crimes against humanity during post-election unrest in 2010.

- 'Flawed reconciliation' -

Among the others granted amnesties by Ouattara on Monday were former defence minister Lida Kouassi -- a key ally of Laurent Gbagbo -- who was sentenced this year to 15 years for conspiracy, and former construction minister Assoa Adou, jailed in 2017 for four years.

"On Monday I signed an amnesty order that will benefit about 800 citizens prosecuted or sentenced for offences related to the post-election crisis of 2010 or state security offences committed after May 21, 2011, (the date of Ouattara's inauguration)," the president said in his address.

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Around 500 of those named have already been released provisionally from detention, he added. They will have their criminal records erased.

The other 300 will be released "soon", he added, without giving any dates.

The question of national reconciliation in Ivory Coast, or the lack of it, has been seen by observers as a black mark against Ouattara.

About 3,000 people died in the turmoil that swept Abidjan -- once one of Africa's most cosmopolitan cities -- in the aftermath of the November 2010 presidential polls when Laurent Gbagbo refused to accept defeat to bitter rival Ouattara.

A confidential report from EU ambassadors in the Ivory Coast, seen by AFP last week, said the lack of reconciliation was a "major flaw".

"National reconciliation," the diplomats warned, "...seems to have been sacrificed on the altar of impunity and amnesia."

With fresh presidential elections due to be held in 2020, there are fears a lack of progress in bringing political opponents together could spark fresh violence and Ouatarra's amnesty may be seen as an attempt to quell such concerns.

Sensitive to the political criticisms aimed at his administration, Ouatarra also vowed to "strengthen social programmes" and "intensify the fight against corruption" in his speech.
By Bozorgmehr Sharafedin LONDON (Reuters) - Bahraini opposition leader Hassan Mushaima is being denied vital medical care in jail in the Gulf state, says his son Ali Mushaima, on hunger strike outside Bahrain's London embassy. Hassan Mushaima, 70, was arrested in 2011 along with other Shi'ite activists and opposition figures and sentenced to life in prison for leading anti-government protests that year at the height of the region's "Arab Spring" uprisings. Amnesty International on Monday also accused Bahraini authorities of failing to provide proper medical care for Mushaima and three other elderly jailed activists for over a year. "They are killing my father slowly, because when you are denying a 70-year-old man his medicine, his body will not take it," said Ali Mushaima, sitting on a thin mattress on the pavement in front of the Bahrain Embassy, where he began his vigil on August 1. Mushaima said his father had been treated for cancer several years ago, and needed regular check-ups to ensure the disease had not returned. He said his father also suffered from high blood pressure, diabetes and a urinary tract infection. His medication is running out and authorities had not supplied him with new pills, Ali said. Bahraini officials did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. The Bahraini embassy in London last week denied Mushaima was being mistreated, saying he had been to the prison medical clinic 16 times since the beginning of 2018. The embassy said "he continues to receive medical attention, along with his prescribed medications and a special diet as part of his medical regime." The embassy said Mushaima had been diagnosed with cancer 10 years ago. Since his conviction in 2012, arrangements had been made for scans every six months, it said. "However, Mr Mushaima refused to attend these scans on both occasions last year," it said on its Twitter account. His son told Reuters: "They want to humiliate my father by putting handcuffs and shackles on his hands and feet, and he is saying I am not going to hospital or to see my family like this." SHI'ITE MAJORITY, SUNNI RULERS Western-allied Bahrain, where the U.S. Fifth Fleet is based, crushed mass protests by the Shi'ite Muslim majority in 2011. The ruling Sunni Al Khalifa family has kept a lid on unrest since then by closing Shi'ite-led opposition groups and prosecuting activists. Bahrain's rulers have refused to make power-sharing concessions to the Shiites, seen by the authorities and Sunni Arab neighbors including Saudi Arabia as proxies for non-Arab Shiite rival Iran. Authorities in Bahrain have convicted scores of people of terrorism in a series of mass trials. Rights activists say they are mostly peaceful opposition activists. "The Bahraini authorities' treatment of these wrongfully imprisoned peaceful activists violates international law and standards on prisoner treatment and constitutes cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment," said Lynn Maalouf, Middle East Research Director at Amnesty International. Demonstrators have clashed frequently with security forces, who have been targeted by bomb attacks. Bahrain has accused the opposition of undermining security and blamed the bombings on Iran and Lebanon's armed Shi'ite group Hezbollah. Iran and Hezbollah deny any involvement in Bahrain's unrest. Ali Mushaima has been in London since 2006. He said he had been sentenced by Bahrain courts in absentia to 45 years in jail and his citizenship had been revoked. He told Reuters that he began his hunger strike last week to raise awareness of his father's plight. "I have lost five kilos. I am drinking, but I am not eating. My demand is very simple ... I am talking about medical care, family visits and access to books." He criticized the U.S. and British governments for not pressuring Bahrain over the crackdown, saying the British government was "indirectly" responsible since it "trained the Bahraini police officers and provided technical assistance". A spokesperson for Britain's Foreign and Commonwealth Office told Reuters on Monday: We believe that only by working with Bahrain can we hope to bring about the changes we would like to see. Britain opened a permanent military base in Bahrain in April in an attempt to boost its role as a major player in the region. (Reporting by Bozorgmehr Sharafedin; Additional reporting by Aziz El Yaakoubi in Dubai and William James in London; Editing by Samia Nakhoul and Andrew Roche)
OXNARD, Calif.  Aneah Dietz cannot help but smile. She is standing next to her 2-year-old brother and her mom and her dad. She is standing on the fence at Dallas Cowboys training camp.

The 8-year-old is smiling because she is happy to be here, watching her team. But she is also smiling because her dad, Oscar, is talking about Jason Witten.

Oh, Witten, Oscar says when asked about his teams all-time leader in games played (239), catches (1,152) and receiving yards (12,448). Oh, man.

With Jason Witten retired, the Dallas Cowboys look to tight ends Geoff Swaim, Blake Jarwin and Rico Gathers to replace Wittens production. (AP)

Oscar, 25, grew up in Orange County, California. He grew up a Cowboys fan, of course. That meant cheering for Witten on Sundays. That meant buying the No. 82 jersey he wore on this Sunday. It still hurts Dietz to talk about Wittens retirement in May, which is why his daughter smiles when Wittens name is brought up. But in a sense, he is over it. He has pushed through stage pain and entered stage perspective.

I get to see him every Monday night, Dietz says. Im excited for him. Hes a family man.

Indeed, Witten will assemble adjectives and verbs as an analyst for ESPNs Monday Night Football broadcast this fall. Not only were Cowboys fans like Dietz sad to see him go because of what he meant on the field for 15 years, but they were also sad because they know how hard it will be to replace him.

Production wise, the Cowboys will attempt to do so by committee. They will try, at least with a combination of tight ends Geoff Swaim, Blake Jarwin and Rico Gathers.

Were all just a bunch of guys who just want to play, Jarwin tells Yahoo Sports. Nobody holds anything against anybody else. Swaim scored his touchdown earlier, and I went crazy. I was tired, but I was like, man, thats awesome. Good job.

Dallas Cowboys tight end Blake Jarwin (89) and teammate tight end Geoff Swaim (87) run it back after a play during Cowboys training camp on Thursday. (AP)

Of the tight ends on the current roster  including Dalton Schultz and David Wells  Swaim is the presumptive favorite to win the starting spot. Last year, the former Texas Longhorn played in 15 games for the Cowboys, starting in two.

He often served as an extra blocker in the run game, but he has the ability to catch passes.

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Jarwin, who once walked on at Oklahoma State and started as a junior, is next. After going undrafted in 2017, the Cowboys signed him to their practice squad and ultimately added him to the roster.

Last year, he played in one game.

And then there is Gathers, the former Baylor basketball player who is still figuring out this whole football thing. He was selected in the sixth round of the 2016 NFL draft. Last year, he was placed on injured reserve with a concussion, forcing him out the entire year.

On Sunday, though, Gathers made two nice touchdown snags in 7-on-7 drills.

I think weve got a good group of tight ends, said quarterback Dak Prescott.  Weve got some bigger guys and some guys that can run.

At this point, first-year tight ends coach Doug Nussmeier has to be aware of this. Nussmeier was the offensive coordinator for Alabama the year the fighting Nick Sabans won the 2012 BCS national championship.

What has Nussmeier brought to the room other than more visors and long sleeve athletic Ts?

Great energy, Jarwin says.

A perspective of a quarterback, Swaim adds.

Replacing 15 years of experience is a tall task. The current tight ends know this. Prescott does, too. Even Aneah, at 8 years old, is aware.

Once again, she is smiling as her father drifts back to 2007, to an old Orange County apartment. One Sunday night, he was watching his team with his brother, George. Witten caught a pass from former Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo and proceeded to take it nearly the distance after having his helmet ripped off.

He was just running, Oscar recalls.

The play pushed his fandom further, he now says. And be it Swaim, Jarwin, Gathers or another, Oscar hopes another tight end touchdown does the same for Aneah at some point soon.

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Jim Carrey doesnt know when hell stop with his artistic attacks on President Donald Trumps administration.

I cant just watch this nightmare unfold, the actor-comedian-artist explained at the 2018 Television Critics Association Summer Press Tour in Beverly Hills on Monday. Carrey, who was promoting his new Showtime comedy Kidding, also described his cartoons as a reflex to what Im seeing.

Its just a civilized way of dealing with it, to get on board with as many other voices as possible that are shouting from the rooftops, he added, per USA Today.

Jim Carrey explained the thought process behind his politically-charged artwork on Monday. (Photo: Frederick M. Brown via Getty Images)

HuffPost has documented Carreys politically charged output in recent months (see here, here, here, here and here for just some examples). Some of his pieces have caused anger in conservative circles, such as this image of a Russian flag planted in Trumps behind.

Putin plants his flag firmly in American soil. pic.twitter.com/xDl78vBrg8  Jim Carrey (@JimCarrey) July 16, 2018

But Carrey said he was simply expressing the crass everyone else wants to express and cant necessarily do so.

It was a new way of making a public record, he added. You can tweet all you want, but theres something about a picture that takes it to a whole other level.

Check out Carreys last five pieces that hes shared to Twitter below:

Sorry, family farmers. You picked the wrong guy to protect you. https://t.co/NrLGWEFBsI pic.twitter.com/gBqU8MIuf7  Jim Carrey (@JimCarrey) July 30, 2018

Great men and women once occupied these desks. The House of Representatives, 1789 - 2016. https://t.co/NrLGWEFBsI pic.twitter.com/IiVxqFPEeM  Jim Carrey (@JimCarrey) July 26, 2018

Related Coverage

Story continues

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Nairobi (AFP) - Kenya and Tanzania on Tuesday marked the 20th anniversary of devastating US embassy bombings in Nairobi and Dar Es Salaam, which signalled Al-Qaeda's emergence as a deadly player on the global stage.

In Nairobi, a solemn ceremony reunited families of the victims and officials at a memorial park in the centre of the Kenyan capital, created on the site of the US embassy.

The diplomatic mission was devastated by a huge explosion on the morning of August 7, 1998, followed minutes later by another massive blast which wrecked the US embassy in Tanzania.

A total of 224 people were killed in the attacks and around 5,000 injured -- mostly African citizens.

"Twenty years ago today, evil showed its terrible face in Kenya and Tanzania," US Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec told the Nairobi gathering.

"In the middle of a busy Friday morning, Al-Qaeda terrorists exploded bombs outside the US embassies here in Nairobi and in Dar es Salaam."

"In an awful moment, the lives of thousands changed forever as did the lives of their families and friends," he added.

The Nairobi Chamber Choir gave performed the Kenyan and American national anthems, then participants held candles while the names of the victims were read out to the sound of a solo violin.

"On that day, the perpetrator's -- Al-Qaeda -- appetite and ambition for large-scale attacks grew," said Martin Kimani, head of Kenya's National Counter Terrorism Centre.

"Since then, large parts of the world have endured repeated attacks by terrorists," he added.

A similar memorial service was scheduled to take place in Dar Es Salaam.

The twin attacks introduced the world to Al-Qaeda's leader Osama bin Laden three years before the September 11 attacks in New York would make him a household name.

Almost 3,000 people died when hijacked passenger aircraft hit the Pentagon in Washington and destroyed the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center, the symbol of New York's financial wealth.

In May 2011, the White House announced that Bin Laden had been killed in Pakistan by US special forces.
Ohios District 12 seat has been filled by a Republican for over 35 years. But the district has a solid chance of turning blue if Democrat Danny OConnor defeats Republican Troy Balderson in a special election over the vacant House of Representatives seat on Tuesday.

Polls in the months leading up to the election indicated a strong lead for Balderson, a current state senator. But more recent ones indicate a dramatically slimming margin for the 56-year-old Republican.

Heres what you need to know.

Why is Ohio hosting a special election?

OConnor, 31, and Balderson are competing to succeed Republican Pat Tiberi, who announced an early retirement after serving more than 15 years in Congress back in October of 2017. Tiberi retired to take an executive position at a business group in Ohio, but it is not totally clear what motivated him to seek employment elsewhere. Some reports suggest Tiberi could have been growing frustrated with continued gridlock in Congress, despite Republicans controlling the Senate, House and White House after President Donald Trump took office.

Who is likely to win?

Throughout the campaign trail, polls indicated a strong lead for Balderson in the district that encompasses both suburbs and agricultural land. In June, a Monmouth University poll showed Balderson ahead by 10 points.

But a more recent one  released on Wednesday from the same university  indicated the race could be extremely close. Two of three voter turnout models showed Balderson was only 1 percentage-point ahead of his 31-year-old Democratic opponent.

This might have something to do with the education level of residents within the Ohio district.

The New York Times reports District 12 has the highest median household income, as well as the highest rate of adults with bachelors degrees or higher compared to Ohios other 15 congressional districts.

Trump won the district by over 11 points in the 2016 election against his opponent, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

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Why does this election matter outside of Ohios District 12?

If OConnor wins, he will be one of several Democrats to upset special elections in historically Republican areas. Democrat Doug Jones won a vacant Alabama Senate seat over Republican Roy Moore in December of 2017. Pennsylvania also faced a Democratic upset in March, when Democrat Conor Lamb narrowly defeated Republican Rick Saccone for the District 18 seat after Republican Representative Tim Murphy resigned. Trump had defeated Clinton in the same area by almost 20 percentage points in 2016.

Republicans appear nervous about the race. The Republican National Committee opened two Ohio offices and spent at least $500,000 in efforts to attract voters ahead of the special election. Additionally, Republican interest groups have dished out more than $3 million for television ads.

Some experts suggest the results of the special election could shed important light on how Republicans may fare in the November midterms.

Even a narrow victory for Balderson will be a grim portent for the Republican party. It will suggest that many high income, suburban seats considered safe in the fall might be at risk, said Thomas Wood, an assistant professor of political science at Ohio State University and an expert in vote choice and elections.

Christopher Devine, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Dayton in Ohio, warned against using the special election as a litmus test for the midterms.

The one thing I will predict with absolute certainty is that people will extrapolate more from what happens in this one election than they really should, said Devine, who used to live in the 12th District.

If OConnor won, it could be interpreted as an indication that the Republican party is weak and that it will face further losses in November in the so-called Blue Wave, for instance  thats a lot of interpretation for a single election, he said.

Either way, the race was important enough for presidential trips to the area. Both Trump and Vice President Mike Pence made stops in Ohio to campaign for Balderson in recent weeks.
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)  The Latest on a sightseeing airplane crash at Alaska's Denali National Park (all times local):

5:10 p.m.

A Michigan man has been identified as the pilot the plane that crashed in Alaska's Denali National Park over the weekend, killing four people and leaving the last person on board missing and presumed dead.

Park spokeswoman Katherine Belcher identified the pilot of the flightseeing plane as Craig Layson. She didn't have an age or hometown.

However, the Saline Post newspaper in Michigan reports Layson and his wife, Maggie, live in Saline and he works summers as a pilot for K2 Aviation in Talkeetna, Alaska. Bobby Seldkamp, the manager at Stony Creek Collision in Ypsilanti, Michigan, confirmed in a phone interview with The Associated Press that Layson was the pilot and owner of the repair business.

Belcher says the identities of the four passengers on the plane from Poland haven't been released yet. The park service has been working with the Polish embassy in Los Angeles.

Belcher says the flight near North America's tallest mountain had been arranged through K2 Aviation by a Polish tour company

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2:40 p.m.

Bad weather and challenging terrain will hamper the investigation into a fatal sightseeing airplane crash in Alaska's Denali National Park.

The small airplane carrying four passengers from Poland and a pilot crashed Saturday evening. A National Park Service ranger lowered to the crash site by a helicopter Monday found no survivors.

Clint Johnson of the National Transportation Safety Board says cloud cover could prevent recovery of the bodies until at least Thursday.

He says the crash site is near crevasses and that technical climbing skills are needed to reach it. NTSB investigators and the park service are working on recovery plans.

The crash occurred near the top of a mountain ridge about 14 miles (22.5 kilometers) southwest of Denali, North America's tallest mountain.

The park service describes the terrain as a mix of near-vertical rock, ice and snow.

Story continues

___

10:45 a.m.

The National Park Service says four people have died in the crash of a sightseeing airplane in Alaska's Denali National Park after thick clouds hampered rescuers' response to a distress call.

The agency says a fifth person aboard the plane carrying four Polish passengers is missing and presumed dead. Searchers reached the crash site in steep, icy terrain Monday.

The plane crashed around 6 p.m. Saturday near the top of a mountain ridge about 14 miles (22.5 kilometers) southwest of Denali, North America's tallest mountain.

After the crash, the pilot reported by satellite phone that passengers suffered injuries. The satellite connection failed before he could give details.

Clouds and rain Sunday and earlier Monday prevented searchers from spotting the plane.

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8:30 a.m.

A search resumed Monday for an airplane that crashed on a mountain ridge in Alaska's Denali National Park.

The National Park Service says the sightseeing flight was carrying a pilot and four passengers from Poland when it crashed early Saturday night.

A National Park Service high-altitude helicopter launched Monday morning along with an Air National Guard C-130 and Pave Hawk helicopters in an attempt to reach the crash site.

An Army Chinook helicopter from Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks also planned to launch with a ground crew onboard that can be inserted into a glacier staging area to assist with rescue operations.

The de Havilland Beaver flightseeing aircraft operated by K2 Aviation crashed near the summit of Thunder Mountain about roughly 14 miles (22.5 kilometers) southwest of the summit of Denali.
LAKE FOREST, Calif. (AP)  The Latest on California wildfires (all times local):

9 p.m.

A wildfire south of Los Angeles is growing rapidly as it plows through the Cleveland National Forest.

The blaze that erupted Monday has scorched 6 square miles (16 square kilometers), destroyed one building and prompted evacuations of two canyons and some campgrounds.

It's the latest of nearly 20 large fires that are burning in California.

The largest is a twin-fire system north of San Francisco that has burned 75 homes and more than 440 square miles (1,100 square kilometers) of forest and rural lands, making it the largest fire in recorded California history.

A wildfire last December in Southern California previously held the record. The Thomas Fire also killed two people and destroyed more than 1,000 buildings.

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7:20 p.m.

Authorities say twin blazes rapidly spreading in Northern California have become the state's largest wildfire in history.

The fires burning a few miles apart and known as the Mendocino Complex ignited July 27 and encompass an area the size of Los Angeles. It's the second straight year that California has recorded the state's largest wildfire.

Officials said Monday that the flames about 100 miles (259 kilometers) north of San Francisco grew to 283,800 acres (443.4 square miles or 1,148.4 square kilometers).

That surpasses a wildfire last year in Southern California that burned 281,893 acres (440.5 square miles or 1,140.8 kilometers). That one killed two people and destroyed more than 1,000 buildings.

The new fire has burned 75 homes. It is mostly burning in remote areas but has forced thousands of people to evacuate.

___

3:30 p.m.

Authorities have evacuated cabins in two communities in the Santa Ana Mountains in Orange County because of a fast-moving wildfire.

Jeanna Smith with the U.S. Forest Service says firefighters are attacking the fast-moving Holy Fire with a DC-10 air tanker and helicopters.

She says crews are "hitting it hard with everything we've got" in hopes of stopping the fire at the top of a ridge and keeping it from reaching homes a couple miles away.

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The fire began around 2 p.m. Monday and quickly grew to more than a square mile (2.6 square kilometers).

Smith says about a dozen people have been evacuated from weekend cabins in the communities of Holy Jim and Trabuco Canyon.

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1 p.m.

The owners of a historic Northern California resort say it has been damaged by a wildfire tearing through the Stanislaus National Forest.

The Sacramento Bee reported Monday that the near-century old Dardanelle Resort has sustained massive structural damage from a fire that erupted last week. The extent of the damage was unclear.

The rustic lodge 180 miles (290 kilometers) east of San Francisco is nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains. It offers cabin and motel rentals along with RV sites, a store and restaurant. Its Facebook page says it was established in 1923.

The U.S. Forest Service reported that the fire crossed Highway 108 Sunday evening, forcing crews to retreat from the fire's edge.

The resort owners said in a Facebook post that they are heartbroken by the news.

___

11:30 a.m.

Authorities say three men tending to a marijuana grow were arrested after they refused to leave a fire evacuation zone in Northern California, hindering firefighters' efforts against a massive blaze.

The Lake County Sheriff's Office says deputies on Saturday found the men watering a marijuana crop about 20 yards (18 meters) from the fire line.

The office says firefighters had to divert three very large air tanker passes as they worked to stop the fire from reaching the town of Lucerne because the "hostile" men wouldn't leave. They called authorities.

It says 59-year-old Steven Bell, 29-year-old Travis Bell and 41-year-old Gary Wertheimer were arrested on suspicion of interfering with firefighters and not having authorization to be in an evacuation zone.

They were released with citations.

___

10:30 a.m.

The Army is sending 200 active-duty soldiers to help battle wildfires in the Western U.S.

The National Interagency Fire Center said Monday the soldiers from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, will get three days of training starting on Thursday and will all be deployed to the same fire. The fire hasn't been chosen.

The fire center requested the soldiers from the Defense Department, which agreed to send them.

More than 127 wildfires are burning in 11 Western states, taxing civilian resources. At least three states have mobilized National Guard troops to help, and five military aircraft are assisting.

The fire center says active-duty personnel have been mobilized to help firefighters 37 times since 1987, most recently in September.

___

8 a.m.

Twin wildfires fueled by dry vegetation and hot, windy weather have continued to grow in Northern California.

California fire officials said Monday that the two fires about 100 miles (161 kilometers) north of San Francisco were 30 percent contained and have scorched 428 square miles (1,108 square kilometers).

The two fires are burning about 14 miles (22 kilometers) apart and have destroyed 75 homes. Another 9,000 buildings are threatened.

The two fires cover an area larger than a deadly wildfire burning near Redding, California.

That blaze has killed two firefighters and five civilians and destroyed more than 1,000 homes.

The wildfire started two weeks ago by sparks from the steel wheel of a towed-trailer's flat tire. It is 45 percent contained.

Related Video: Mendocino Fire Now the Largest in California History

Watch news, TV and more on Yahoo View.
GENEVA (Reuters) - The Ebola outbreak in Congo is confirmed to be the Zaire strain of the virus and vaccinations of health workers may start as early as Wednesday, a senior official of the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Tuesday. Peter Salama, WHO deputy director for emergency preparedness and response, gave the results of genetic sequencing in a tweet saying that analysis showed it was a new outbreak in North Kivu province, adding: "We can start using rVSV-ZEBOV vaccine as early as tomorrow." The experimental vaccine, which is manufactured by Merck, proved successful during its first wide-scale usage against an outbreak of Zaire virus on the other side of Congo in the northwest that was declared over less than two weeks ago after killing 33. (Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Editing by Alison Williams)
ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP)  The Latest on the fraud trial of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort (all times local):

10:55 p.m.

A lawyer for Paul Manafort suggests the government's star witness, Rick Gates, has told "so many lies" he can't remember them all.

That's how attorney Kevin Downing began his cross-examination Tuesday of Gates, Manafort's longtime deputy. Manafort's defense is looking to undermine Gates' credibility and blame him for any crimes.

Downing pressed Gates on his own lies to special counsel Robert Mueller's investigators, an extramarital affair and hundreds of thousands of dollars he admitted to embezzling from his former boss.

Gates has told jurors he and Manafort spent years carrying out a vast tax-evasion and bank fraud conspiracy involving millions of dollars.

__

6:30 p.m.

The judge presiding over Paul Manafort's fraud trial is questioning how closely the former Trump campaign chairman kept track of his finances.

That's a key issue in the trial. Defense lawyers say Manafort left tax and banking details to his deputy, Rick Gates, while prosecutors say Manafort was intimately involved in his own finances.

The comment by Judge T.S. Ellis III came Tuesday as Gates testified about Manafort's knowledge about his political consulting firm shifting money among offshore accounts.

Gates said Manafort "was pretty good about knowing where the money is." That prompted Ellis to note that Manafort was unaware that Gates had embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars, possibly millions, from Manafort's firm.

Ellis said Manafort didn't monitor that money "that closely."

__

5:10 p.m.

The star witness at former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort's fraud trial says he stole from his former boss because of personal struggles.

Asked Tuesday why he embezzled from Manafort, Rick Gates said he was living beyond his means. He said he made a mistake and is taking responsibility for it.

Story continues

Gates' response came as Manafort's lawyer, Kevin Downing asked whether Gates was using embezzled funds to pay for a relationship he had outside his marriage. Gates denied this.

Gates reluctantly admitted he engaged in embezzlement under extensive questioning from Downing. Initially Gates referred to "unauthorized transactions."

When Downing asked him why he wouldn't say "embezzlement," Gates replied: "What difference does it make."

He finally acknowledged: "It was embezzlement from Mr. Manafort."

___

4:30 p.m.

Paul Manafort's trial came to an abrupt standstill after defense lawyers sought to question star witness Rick Gates about his time on President Donald Trump's campaign.

Gates was undergoing an aggressive cross-examination from Manafort's lawyer, Kevin Downing, when Downing asked Gates whether special counsel Robert Mueller's investigators had interviewed Gates about the campaign.

That prompted an objection from prosecutors and a sidebar conference. After several minutes of discussion away from the jury and the public, U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III called for a 30-minute break.

In general, references to Trump at the two-week trial have been few and far between. Both sides agreed ahead of time to limit discussion of the campaign so as not to prejudice the jury.

___

4:25 p.m.

The government's star witness in the Paul Manafort trial says it's possible he submitted personal expenses for reimbursement to President Donald Trump's inaugural committee.

Rick Gates made the acknowledgement under cross examination. Gates was involved in the planning of the inauguration.

Manafort attorney Kevin Downing is also pressing Gates on his admission earlier in the trial that he had embezzled money from Manafort.

Downing is also suggesting Gates had a "secret life" involving a flat in London. In response, Gates says he had an extramarital affair and the London flat was used for that purpose.

Gates was given a list of $3 million in wire transfers that he received but struggled to say which were legitimate and which were not.

___

4:05 p.m.

A lawyer for Paul Manafort has suggested to the government's star witness that he has "told so many lies that you can't even remember them."

Rick Gates began a challenging cross-examination Tuesday as Manafort's lawyer, Kevin Downing, pressed him on his own lies to the special counsel's office and to embezzlement that he admitted to earlier in the trial.

Gates acknowledged he had to plead guilty to false statements after lying during a February interview with federal investigators.

He said "there's no question I struggled to get all the information out."

He struggled under cross-examination to remember exactly what he had admitted to during interviews with investigators.

At one point, Downing asked him, "Have they confronted you with so many lies that you can't even remember them."

___

2:35 p.m.

Prosecutors have finished questioning Paul Manafort's longtime deputy in his financial fraud trial.

Defense lawyers are preparing to cross-examine Rick Gates, the government's star witness against the former Trump campaign chairman.

Gates is expected to face tough questions from Manafort's defense team as they've sought to paint him as a liar, embezzler and instigator of any illegal conduct.

They are hoping to rebut hours of testimony Gates gave laying the blame for tax evasion and bank fraud at Manafort's feet.

Gates has told jurors that he spent years fabricating documents, disguising income as loans and helping conceal millions of dollars in offshore accounts from the IRS. Gates says all of those crimes were done at Manafort's direction.

___

2:30 p.m.

Paul Manafort asked for tickets to President Donald Trump's inauguration so he could give them to a banker involved in approving a loan at the center of his financial fraud trial.

That's according to testimony from Rick Gates, Manafort's longtime deputy. Gates also says Manafort floated banker Stephen Calk's name for a Trump administration post.

Gates says Manafort asked him in an email about the tickets and suggested that Calk be considered as secretary of the Army in the Trump administration.

The email exchange occurred after Manafort left the Trump campaign but while Gates was active on the Trump inauguration committee.

Prosecutors had previously said that Manafort's interactions with Calk were the only part of the financial fraud trial to overlap with his Trump campaign role.

___

2:05 p.m.

Prosecutors want the judge in Paul Manafort's fraud trial to let them show evidence his businesses failed to file federal foreign bank account reports detailing hidden assets abroad.

Attorneys for special counsel Robert Mueller's office say in a court filing that Manafort's defense lawyers opened the door to such evidence by repeatedly referring to complex rules governing the required reporting of foreign bank account reports, known as FBARs (EFF-BARS).

Prosecutors want to show that the former Trump campaign chairman didn't file any FBARs detailing accounts owned by his businesses, Davis Manafort Partners and DMP International.

The filing comes after a special agent with the Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network testified Monday that neither Manafort nor his wife personally submitted the paperwork as required by law.

___

1:25 p.m.

Rick Gates says he repeatedly submitted fake financial documents at the behest of his boss, Paul Manafort.

Gates also says the former Trump campaign chairman repeatedly voiced concerns that he was paying too much in taxes and, later, that his funds were drying up.

In one note described to the jury, Gates says Manafort wrote "WTF" and "not happy" about tax payments he was going to have to make.

Gates told jurors how he helped Manafort convert foreign income into loans as a way to reduce his tax bill. He says he later helped draft sham loan agreements and loan forgiveness letters.

The testimony has bolstered the prosecution's tax-evasion and fraud case against Manafort. Manafort's attorneys will cross-examine Gates later Tuesday. They have sought to paint Gates as the instigator of any criminal conduct.

___

11:15 a.m.

Rick Gates says he was interviewed by the FBI in 2014 as part of a forfeiture investigation being done by Ukrainian authorities and the FBI.

Gates told jurors under questioning Tuesday that he did not believe at the time that he or Paul Manafort, who was also interviewed, were the focus of that investigation.

Gates says Manafort instructed him to travel to France to notify a Ukrainian businessman that the FBI wanted to interview them and to get more information about his business.

Manafort's lawyers have said he was interviewed multiple times by the FBI. The asset-recovery investigation came after the fall of Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, who employed Manafort for years.

Yanukovych and his officials have been accused of misappropriating tens of millions of dollars in Ukrainian assets.

____

10:35 a.m.

Paul Manafort's one-time protege has described for jurors how millions of dollars flowed from entities controlled by Ukrainian businessmen into Manafort's bank accounts in Cyprus.

Rick Gates returned to the witness stand Tuesday as the government's star witness in Manafort's financial fraud trial in Alexandria, Virginia.

Gates said Manafort was paid for Ukrainian political consulting work, but that the money was classified as loans instead of income. He told jurors Manafort classified the money that way to decrease his taxable income. Gates says he didn't report the money as income to Manafort's bookkeeper or accountants.

Gates looked directly at prosecutor Greg Andres as he fielded questions. Manafort sometimes looked at Gates but also appeared to stare intently at documents displayed for the jury and on a screen in front of him.

___

9:45 a.m.

The star witness for the government in Paul Manafort's financial fraud trial is returning to the witness stand.

Rick Gates, the longtime deputy of the former Trump campaign chairman, is continuing to relate the crimes he says he committed with Manafort.

Gates resumed his testimony Tuesday, a day after telling jurors how he helped Manafort hide millions of dollars in offshore accounts from the IRS and later aided him in fraudulently obtaining bank loans. Gates also admitted to embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort.

Gates is testifying as part of a plea deal he made with the government earlier this year. Manafort faces the potential of spending the rest of his life in prison.

Manafort's defense has sought to blame Gates for any crimes.

___

12:25 a.m.

The star witness in the financial fraud trial of President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman is set to return to the witness stand after telling jurors he himself embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from his old boss.

Rick Gates is expected on Tuesday to continue describing the ins-and-outs of defendant Paul Manafort's finances, including what prosecutors say was an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and fraud scheme.

Gates is almost guaranteed to face withering cross-examination by Manafort's defense attorneys, who are seeking to blame any crimes on Manafort's onetime associate.

On Monday, Gates calmly acknowledged having embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort by filing false expense reports. He said the two committed crimes together by stashing money in foreign bank accounts and falsifying bank loan documents.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Latest on the re-imposition of U.S. sanctions against Iran (all times local):

9:40 a.m.

President Donald Trump's national security adviser says U.S. sanctions that kicked in against Iran Tuesday are meant to pressure the government into a broad retreat from its support for international terrorism, its military activity in the Middle East and its ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs.

Sanctions against financial transactions involving U.S. dollars, Iran's automotive sector and the purchase of commercial airplanes had been eased under a landmark international agreement limiting Iran's nuclear activity. But Trump pulled the U.S. out of the deal in May and pledged to reinstate sanctions.

National Security Adviser John Bolton tells Fox News Channel the intent is not to bring about Iranian "regime change."

Bolton says the U.S. wants to see a "much broader retreat" by Iran from its support for terrorism and its ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs.

____

8:51 a.m.

Automaker Daimler AG says it is putting its activities in Iran on ice with the return of U.S. sanctions.

The Stuttgart-based auto and truck maker said in a statement Tuesday that "we are suspending our activities in Iran, which were anyway very limited, until further notice according to applicable sanctions."

Daimler's truck business once had hopes of a large-scale return to Iran, signing a letter of intent in 2016 with a local truck maker and making plans for a representative office and local production. But those plans faltered as the Iranian car and truck market weakened.

The representative office now "will not be continued."

President Donald Trump re-imposed many economic sanctions after pulling out of a deal to limit Iran's nuclear program.

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5:50 a.m.

President Donald Trump says stiff U.S. sanctions against Iran are back in effect and that "anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States."

Story continues

He adds in an early morning tweet that he is, "asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!"

The move comes after Trump declared the landmark 2015 nuclear agreement "horrible." The sanctions reinstated on Tuesday target financial transactions that involve U.S. dollars, Iran's automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

More U.S sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank are to be re-imposed in early November.

The stiff economic sanctions ratchet up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite the concerns of European allies after Trump pulled the U.S. out of the international accord limiting Iran's nuclear activities.
LAS VEGAS (AP)  The Latest on actions taken by the board of directors of casino operator Wynn Resorts (all times local):

4:20 p.m.

Casino operator Wynn Resorts says an internal committee has finished its investigation into the sexual misconduct allegations leveled against company founder Steve Wynn.

In a securities filing Monday, the company said the board of directors received the final presentation from the committee Friday but will not release any results publicly until gambling regulators finish their investigations.

The company says the internal committee will share its findings with gambling regulators.

Gambling regulators in Nevada and Massachusetts began investigating the allegations after the Wall Street Journal first reported them in January.

Committee chairwoman Pat Mulroy in May told investors the committee had interviewed more than 100 people and reviewed 3 million documents.

Wynn resigned as chairman and CEO of the company in February. He has denied the allegations.

___

11:55 a.m.

The board of directors of Las Vegas-based Wynn Resorts is undergoing more changes.

The casino operator on Monday announced industry veteran Phil Satre has been named vice chairman of the board and will become its chairman in the coming months.

This is the latest change to the board since sexual misconduct allegations against founder Steve Wynn rocked the company earlier this year. He has denied the allegations.

Current chairman D. Boone Wayson will step down from his post by Dec. 31. Wayson in a statement called Satre's appointment "a significant step forward."

Satre was the longtime chairman and CEO of Harrah's Entertainment.

His appointment is part of an agreement with the company's top shareholder, Elaine Wynn, that limits the activist pressure she can put on the company.
Tehran (AFP) - Many Iranians blame their own government for the return of US sanctions, but they also fear it could be the "final nail in the coffin" for the floundering economy.

Despite days of protests and strikes across the country, there appeared to be less unrest as sanctions returned Tuesday -- although that said little about the depth of despair, particularly among poorer sections of society.

"I feel like my life is being destroyed. The economic situation right now means that the working class must die," said Ali Paphi, a construction worker.

"Sanctions are already badly affecting people's lives. I can't afford to buy food, pay the rent... No one cares about workers."

Much of the damage was already done in the weeks preceding the return of sanctions, as US President Donald Trump's aggressive rhetoric spooked investors and triggered a run on the rial.

That only added to deep-seated problems of corruption, a chaotic banking system and rampant unemployment after decades of mismanagement.

"Prices have been increasing for three or four months and everything we need has become so expensive, even before sanctions returned," said Yasaman, a 31-year-old photographer in Tehran.

Like many in the capital, he believes Iran's leaders will be forced to return to the negotiating table, as Trump hopes.

"I hope it will happen one day. Most people believe the politicians will have to drink 'the poison cup' eventually," said Yasaman.

That was a reference, widely heard in Iran these days, to the famous phrase used by Iran's revolutionary leader Ruhollah Khomeini who said signing a truce to end the brutal eight-year war with Iraq in 1988 was like drinking "a cup of poison".

Most Iranians have tuned out the endless US hostility, with which they have lived for four decades, so their anger is mostly directed at their own leaders.

"Prices are rising again, but the reason is government corruption, not US sanctions," said Ali, a 35-year-old decorator.

Story continues

Like many, he sees President Hassan Rouhani as powerless to improve things.

"He can't solve the problems. It's been shown several times that he is not the decision-maker in this country. Our problem is our representatives and system," he added.

Wealthier and educated Iranians have also lost hope, but they have an option to leave -- even if it weighs heavy on the heart.

Sogand, a young Iranian-American, came to live in Iran for the first time five years ago and had enjoyed the thaw in international tensions that accompanied the nuclear deal.

But in recent months, she grew worried about her status as a dual national -- several have been arrested on espionage charges in Iran -- and decided it was time to get out.

"I feel ashamed for abandoning my colleagues during this economic crisis. I feel guilty for having the resources to leave so quickly in front of my friends," she said.

"(But) the economic destabilisation and the unravelling of any and all financial prospects in this country was the nail on the coffin."
For Saifa Khan, her experience as a Muslim high schooler in NYC may be unique to her, but she admits that her everyday life isnt much different from other high schoolers. (Photo: Saifa Khan, Art by Quinn Lemmers for Yahoo Lifestyle)

American Beauty is a new series in which Yahoo Lifestyle takes a virtual cross-country journey to discover what beauty means  reimagining the American flag through the diverse group of faces that make up the United States of America. For our first installment, were focusing on Muslim-American women, highlighting what makes this group unique while showcasing the common threads that bring us together. Here, high schooler Saifa Khan gives us a glimpse into a day in her life.

Growing up in New York City, where your differences are essentially who you are, Ive realized that its important to sometimes look for the things that bring us together. Im a Muslim New Yorker; I love eating halal, I go to the mosque, and I wear the hijab. But Im also a teenager  I shop at stores like Forever 21 and H&M, I listen to Drake, and I use social media way too much. I honor my faith while also enjoying life as a teenager. My experience as a young Muslim may be unique to me, but my everyday life isnt much different from other high schoolers.

The Instagram accounts Muslim high schooler Saifa Khan checks upon waking and before getting dressed for the day. (GIF: Saifa Khan, Art by Quinn Lemmers for Yahoo Lifestyle)

7:12 a.m.: My internal clock wakes me up at this ungodly hour on a Sunday morning. I scroll through my Instagram Explore page until my eyes get tired enough to drift back to sleep.

9:27 a.m.: Its still early, but any attempt to fall back asleep proves futile, so I get out of bed.

12:19 p.m.: Im facing the same dilemma that nearly every hijabi goes through during the summer. Todays temperature is going to be over 90 degrees, and Im reminded of why I dont go out often during the hot months. Finding weather-appropriate clothes when the sun is beaming is the biggest struggle for me. The options seem to be: either melt into a puddle with clothing thats modest but not suitable for summer, or heres a dress with 10 slits that you didnt see when you bought it, so now you have to wear more clothes underneath. I end up choosing to wear a long cardigan on top of a tank top, so Im covered, but its light enough for the weather.

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1:07 p.m.: Ive lived in the U.S. my entire life, and my first thought when I think of an aggressively American food is burgers. Despite this, Ive had a burger only once in my life; food places that cater to Islamic dietary restrictions  halal  and arent just halal food carts or Mediterranean restaurants are limited, even in a big city like New York. So when I found a new burger joint, Burgers by Honest Chops in the East Village, that serves halal burgers, I was beyond hyped and asked my sister to come with me and try the food.

Halal burgers from Burgers by Honest Chops and Forever 21 fast-fashion finds are a few of Saifa Khans favorite things. (Photos: Saifa Khan, Art by Quinn Lemmers for Yahoo Lifestyle)

2:48 p.m.: After finishing our food, I decide to go to Forever 21 in Union Square to pick up a package I ordered online and had shipped to the store. I bought a black maxi dress  a staple in my wardrobe!  ankle socks, and a tote bag to fuel my obsession with the convenience of tote bags. I walk for 15 to 20 minutes in the intense heat, and I already know that when I get home, theres going to be a tan line on my face from my hijab.

4:21 p.m.: Im finally home. I turn the air conditioner on and open Netflix to continue Black Mirror, which Ive been binge-watching for the last week.

5:34 p.m.: My mom and two younger siblings return home from being at the local park all day, which translates to: I cant watch Netflix peacefully anymore. My mom starts cooking right away and asks my siblings and me to clean the house before shes done.

6:15 p.m.: An excuse to stop cleaning? Yes, please. I have my Spanish Regents Exam tomorrow afternoon, so I open Quizlet and pull out a bunch of flash cards with Spanish verbs on them to study.

7:09 p.m.: I feel pretty good about the test tomorrow after studying. Now Im working on my application for the Ambassador Program at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. I put heavy priority on academics and new experiences because after I graduate high school next year, Ill be a first-generation college student, and its important for me to be able to make it when my parents struggled to do so without a college degree.

Work hard, play hard: Saifa Khan uses flash cards to study for the Spanish Regents Exam and brushes up on her fencing skills. (Photo, GIF: Saifa Khan, Art by Quinn Lemmers for Yahoo Lifestyle)

8:30 p.m.: I put on some sweats to start working out. I love food, especially bagels, but I also love fencing. When I started the sport last year, the vigorous workouts were a lot to handle for a person living a sedentary lifestyle like I was, so my coach advised me to keep fit over the summer to avoid that struggle at the beginning of the year. I plan to exercise at least once a week until the season starts again in September.

8:48 p.m.: I was supposed to exercise for at least half an hour, but I quit halfway. Im guessing this is how itll be for the rest of the summer. Isnt summer for relaxing, anyway?

11:21 p.m.: I put my phone on charge and finally get into bed.

Read more on Muslim-American women in our American Beauty package:
SKOPJE, Macedonia (AP)  Macedonian police say they have arrested seven people on suspicion of terrorism for allegedly participating as fighters in the wars in Syria and Iraq.

The suspects, all Macedonian nationals aged between 23 and 41, were arrested in an overnight operation Monday to Tuesday on international warrants. They will be charged for "participation in a foreign army, police and paramilitary formations."

Under a Macedonian antiterrorism law, it is illegal to participate in any paramilitary group or armed conflicts abroad. If convicted, they face jail sentences of up to 10 years.

According to earlier Macedonian official estimates, about 130 Macedonian nationals have joined the Islamic State group and participated in wars in Syria. At least a dozen have been killed in fighting.
SKOPJE (Reuters) - Macedonian police arrested seven people on Tuesday believed to have fought alongside Islamist insurgents in Syria and Iraq, the interior minister said. Police said those arrested, aged between 23 and up to 41, had been charged in two separate cases dating from 2015 and 2016 for participating in the wars in Syria and Iraq. If found guilty they face up to 10 years in prison. Most of the ethnic Albanians who make up one third of Macedonia's 2 million population are Muslim, but practise a moderate form of Islam. Macedonian authorities estimate more than 100 of its citizens are fighting on the battlefields of Syria and Iraq, and so far about 20 have been killed. Some Western diplomats say those returning from Syria and Iraq could represent a security threat in the Balkans, which are still wars in the 1990s. (Reporting by Kole Casule; Writing by Ivana Sekularac; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
Adeline Hocine explains how immigrating to the U.S. at a time when the height of popular culture was dominated by whiteness influenced her beauty choices as a Muslim woman. (Photo: Kameron Richie, Art by Quinn Lemmers for Yahoo Lifestyle)

American Beauty is a new series in which Yahoo Lifestyle takes a virtual cross-country journey to discover what beauty means  reimagining the American flag through the diverse group of faces that make up the United States of America. For our first installment, were focusing on Muslim-American women, highlighting what makes this group unique while showcasing the common threads that bring us together. In this first-person essay, Adeline Hocine explains how immigrating to the U.S. at a time when the height of popular culture was dominated by whiteness influenced her beauty choices.

When I was 5 years old, my parents immigrated to the U.S. In 1999, we moved to a small, suburban town tucked away in the nondescript Midwest. Arriving at a time when the height of popular culture was dominated by whiteness, I was influenced by a standard of beauty that would never make space for me. Perhaps it is for this reason that I remember so well the blond-haired, blue-eyed girls I was suddenly surrounded by, and am quick to forget everyone else. Their delicate features represented a ubiquitous beauty ideal.

I immediately felt out of place, further magnified by the lack of other Muslims. After 9/11, I was no longer just seen as an outlier, but as a criminal as well. My thick eyebrows, combined with the large, pronounced bridge of my nose, were features shared by the guilty and dangerous. Their crimes were assigned as my own in the process.

In 2006, I started middle school. I plucked my eyebrows for the first time that year. I began with the obvious, plucking the hairs just between my eyebrows. Each pull was accompanied by a sharp pain, a tangible embodiment of my loss, though I dont think I knew then just what I was losing. I continued, stopping only after my skin began to ache in a dull shade of red, the millimeter-size droplets of blood already drying on my forehead.

I had wanted so badly to believe that change was coming, but the next day at school proved otherwise. I realized then that peoples hatred wasnt rooted in the way I looked, but in what it represented.

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I had read enough fashion magazines to know about plastic surgery, but also to know that such permanence required patience and age. I dreamt of one day waking up with a nose that did not incite questioning, but in the meantime, I craved a temporary solution.

Growing up, I grappled between two cultures. Though their differences often seemed as far apart as the literal distance between them, they both held women to strict beauty ideals. I learned that when framed by thin eyebrows, large eyes possessed the potential to be considered beautiful, whereas my nose, while common back home, could never be in this new environment. Deemed foreign upon entering this country, I was expected to minimize my exotic features, viewed by others as flaws.

Makeup had the power to deflect and distract, and I embraced it wholeheartedly.

Blending concealer, foundation, and blush created a cocktail of colors that added years to my face. The guise of maturity allowed me to somehow feel slightly more safe. My eyes were my saving grace, and eye makeup exaggerated them in their sheer expansiveness. Like deep pools with no clear end, I drowned onlookers with my gaze until they forgot that there was any other part of me left to be seen. Lipstick  from the brightest to the deepest shades of red  demanded attention directly from my eyes down to my lips, conveniently overlooking the shape of my nose in the process. I rarely deviated from this formula, the end result always inspired by the few often ethnically ambiguous models gracing the pages of magazines. Inspired, but ill-informed, though that part didnt matter. After all, this wasnt for my own comfort, but for theirs.

At first unfamiliar, my hands continued to repeat these motions until they became second nature. I used makeup to transform myself so many times that I could no longer recognize who I was without it. While makeup might have provided an escape, it no longer felt like freedom.

Once enough people had seen me in a full face of makeup, anything less than ignited concern. Depression and illness were somehow always among the first logical assumptions, as though to leave the house bare-faced was to leave everything you ever held close behind. The best version of myself had become tied to a nonexistent ideal, and the daily ritual of applying and subsequently removing this ideal had grown exhausting. I began to approach makeup differently. Rather than masking my differences, I decided to make the most of them.

Adeline Hocine uses shadows in warm, subdued hues of peach and yellow to complement her eyes. (Photo: Kameron Richie)

Now, I no longer butcher my eyebrows, choosing to brush them instead. It has become a lesson in slowing down, a routine in savoring the first new minutes of each morning. There are still days when eye makeup still feels necessary  but in warm, subdued hues of peach and yellow that bring out the gold flecks in my eyes, reminding me of the abundance my ancestors left me. Other days, I choose to bare my soul, the subtle glow of highlighter on an otherwise naked face. Most importantly, I no longer dream of shrinking my nose and no longer worry about the hair on my body, about where it grows or why.

For me, choosing to wear natural makeup is a personal decision, and one born of my own lifelong discomfort with my identity. I was taught that as a Muslim woman, wearing heavy makeup was the only way to feel secure with my exotic features. I knew that choosing to wear less makeup would mean challenging a stigmatized, monolithic beauty standard, but I also knew that I needed to find a sense of comfort within myself that did not feel forced.

My features demand space, and natural makeup creates room for them. Wearing less makeup has allowed me to embrace my features and to celebrate, rather than conceal, my differences.

For the first time, I feel unencumbered by my appearance. It simply is.

Now, I no longer butcher my eyebrows, choosing to brush them instead, says Adeline Hocine, on embracing her physical features as a Muslim woman. (Photo: Kameron Richie)

Read more on Muslim-American women in our American Beauty package:
KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - Malaysia's embattled former prime minister Najib Razak will be charged on Wednesday under a money-laundering act, the anti-graft agency said, in connection with a multi-billion-dollar scandal at state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Najib, 65, and his family have faced intense scrutiny since May, when a shock election result brought his former mentor-turned-foe, 93-year-old Mahathir Mohamad, back to power. Mahathir swiftly reopened an investigation into 1MDB and barred Najib and his wife, Rosmah Mansor, from leaving the country. Last month, Najib was arrested and charged with abuse of power and criminal breach of trust related to an alleged transfer of 42 million ringgit ($10.31 million) into his personal bank account from SRC International, a former unit of 1MDB. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released after posting bail. On Tuesday, he was summoned to the office of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), a day before his pre-trial hearing in court. He was questioned for about 45 minutes. In a statement soon after Najib left its office, the anti-graft agency said he would be charged under the anti-money laundering act. "The charges are related to the SRC International case," it said in a statement. Najib's spokesman declined to comment. 1MDB is being investigated by at least six countries, including Singapore, Switzerland and the United States, over alleged money laundering and graft. The U.S. Department of Justice says an estimated $4.5 billion was misappropriated from 1MDB by high-level officials of the fund and their associates. (Reporting by Rozanna Latiff and Joseph Sipalan; Writing by Praveen Menon; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore and Clarence Fernandez)
Kuala Lumpur (AFP) - Malaysia's disgraced ex-leader Najib Razak will face new charges in court Wednesday under anti-money laundering laws in a case linked to a multi-billion-dollar graft scandal, authorities said.

The announcement came after Najib, who suffered a shock defeat in May elections, was summoned for a new round of questioning by the anti-corruption agency.

Najib was arrested last month and charged with criminal breach of trust and abusing his position over accusations he pocketed 42 million ringgit ($10.3 million). The new charges he faces are in relation to the same case, the anti-graft agency said in a statement.

All the charges relate to the scandal surrounding sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, which was set up and overseen by Najib.

The former leader, his family and cronies are accused of embezzling huge sums that were used to buy everything from artwork to high-end real estate in a sophisticated fraud that spanned the globe.

The graft allegations were a major factor in the defeat of Najib's long-ruling coalition by a reformist alliance headed by political heavyweight Mahathir Mohamad, 93.

After questioning Najib Tuesday for 45 minutes, the anti-graft agency said he would be charged under the anti-money laundering law in relation to SRC International, an energy company that used to be a subsidiary of 1MDB.

He is to face three new charges, the official news agency Bernama reported.

According to an investigation by the Wall Street Journal, about $10 million originating from SRC was transferred to Najib's personal bank accounts.

Najib has so far pleaded not guilty to all charges against him.

Shortly after his downfall, a treasure trove of valuables was seized in raids on properties linked to Najib and his family -- including cash, jewellery and luxury handbags -- worth up to $273 million.
Bamako (AFP) - After the first round of Mali's presidential election was marred by violence and accusations of fraud, EU observers on Tuesday called for more transparency and access during Sunday's run-off.

It came as a thousand people gathered in the capital of Bamako to condemn alleged fraud in the July 29 poll.

"With the second round approaching, it would be desirable for authorities to take all necessary measures to guarantee all voters can exercise their right to vote," said Cecile Kyenge, who heads the EU observer mission in Mali.

Kyenge welcomed the publication of a detailed list of 871 polling stations where voting could not be held in the first round, due to outbreaks of violence.

The incidents affected nearly a quarter of a million people, mostly in the Mopti and Segou regions in the centre and the northern Timbuktu region.

Keita won 41.42 percent of votes in the first stage of the poll in the sprawling west African nation, easily ahead of opposition leader Soumaila Cisse, in second place with 17.8 percent.

But mounting accusations of fraud and ballot box stuffing marred the days following the poll.

- 'No united front' -

Seventeen opposition candidates together held a meeting in the capital with around a thousand supporters to denounce such irregularities.

"We will not accept the dictatorship of fraud in our country," Soumaila Cisse said, adding that the country had suffered too much in the past five years.

But the Malian opposition is less united than it appears to be, according to political analyst Souleymane Drabo.

"There is a united front to contest the results, but there is no united front to give votes to Soumaila Cisse," Drabo told AFP.

One major opposition contender, Cheick Modibo Diarra, who gathered over 7 percent of the vote, was notably absent from the meeting.

In the name of "transparency," the EU mission also repeated its call for the government to "publish the results of the first round of voting, polling station by polling station, as soon as possible," and to do the same after Sunday's runoff.

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European officials also urged authorities to "not limit freedom of expression" and to "guarantee unconstrained access to internet and social network."

Last week, Renouveau FM radio, where wildly popular opposition activist Ras Bath has a weekly show, was closed.

Meanwhile, social networks Twitter and Whatsapp were inaccessible on voting day for many, according to NGO Internet Without Borders.

The constitutional court is due to officially announce the first-round results on Wednesday.

Mali, considered a linchpin state in west Africa's troubled Sahel region, is one of the world's poorest countries, with most people living on less than $2 a day.
DENVER (AP)  A refugee from Iraq charged with shooting a Colorado police officer last week was set for deportation before a federal appeals court ruled in 2016 that a portion of immigration law defining violent crime was too vague, according to a Department of Homeland Security official.

The DHS official, who was not authorized to discuss the case on the record and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity, said Monday that federal immigration authorities began deportation proceedings against Karrar Noaman Al Khammasi after he violated probation terms of a felony trespassing plea in 2015.

The official said an immigration judge ordered on June 13, 2016, that Al Khammasi be removed from the country.

Four months later, federal prosecutors ended the deportation proceedings, citing an unrelated 10th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that found a portion of federal immigration law defining what makes crimes violent and making it easier to deport someone convicted of such a crime too vague. He was released on Nov. 7, 2016, the official said.

In the appeals case, Moldova native Constantine Fedor Golicov was convicted in Utah of failing to stop at a police officer's command, prompting immigration officials to begin deportation proceedings against him. On appeal, Golicov argued that federal law outlining "classes" of immigrants who could be deported, including those convicted of a "crime of violence," was unconstitutionally vague and should not be used to justify his removal from the country.

The U.S. Supreme Court took up a similar case this year, striking down part of federal immigration law making it easier to deport immigrants convicted of "a crime of violence." Justice Neil Gorsuch, nominated by President Donald Trump, joined the court's four liberal justices in that 5-4 decision.

After the decision, Trump tweeted that "it means that Congress must close loopholes that block the removal of dangerous criminal aliens, including aggravated felons."

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The Colorado Springs Police Department said Monday that the injured officer, Cem Duzel, remained in "critical, but stable, condition."

Police Chief Pete Carey said Duzel, 30, was among several officers who responded to a call about shots fired near the U.S. Olympic Training Center. Carey said the officers found an armed suspect and the officer was injured in an exchange of gunfire.

Al Khammasi, 31, was wounded and remained hospitalized on Monday. His attorney, Jennifer Chu, declined comment on Monday when reached by phone.

Court records suggest he lived in the area for at least five years, but it's not clear what drew him to Colorado. According to the DHS official, Al Khammasi was granted refugee status and arrived in the United States in May 2012, flying to Chicago from Turkey.

According to The Gazette in Colorado Springs, at the time of the shooting Al Khammasi was free on $1,000 bail on a charge of weapon possession by a previous offender. He also had other encounters with law enforcement, the newspaper reported.
The 48-year-old father who lost his legs and hands from getting licked by a dog is bracing for more operations.

In addition, Greg Manteufel of Wisconsin told Inside Edition his nose is about to fall off.

They told me my nose is mummified too, it is almost like a frostbite, he said.

Manteufel's life changed forever when he went to a neighborhood party at a park near his home.

At the party, he says there were about five dogs swimming in a pond, and he pet them all.

His doctors believe he contracted bacteria from one of the dogs after it licked him.



I ended up not washing my hands and rubbing my eye or my face and my mouth, somehow, he recalled.

His own dog, Ellie, has been ruled out as the source of the infection because she wasnt at the party and according to his family, she doesnt lick.

Beverly Hills veterinarian Dr. Jeffrey Werber says the bacteria that infected Manteufel is called capnocytophaga canimorsus. It's found in 75 percent of dogs but spreading it to humans is practically unheard of.

This happened to be a case of a very unusual outcome, very rare, he told Inside Edition. I think that the CDC reported something like 12 cases last year."

One day after the party, Manteufel started exhibiting signs of a sepsis. His son said his father would speak and it would sound like gibberish.

Dr. Werber says that despite Manteufel's situation, it's OK to allow a dog to lick you.

In my opinion, you can have your dog lick you and yes, you will be fine, he said.

Manteufel is remarkably upbeat about what happened, saying, "I am just happy to be alive."

His wife and son say he's actually helping them through the ordeal.

The doctor who's treating Manteufel says 99 percent of dog owners will never have to deal with this problem but there 'is' a chance of infection from dog saliva.

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Paul Manafort's longtime deputy Rick Gates has told court that he spent years disguising millions of dollars in foreign income as loans to lower Donald Trumps former campaign chairman's tax bill

MrGates, the government's star witness, testified that he and Mr Manafort used offshore shell companies and bank accounts in Cyprus to funnel the money, all while concealing the accounts and the income from US tax authorities.

In Cyprus, they were documented as loans. In reality, it was basically money moving between accounts, Mr Gates said during his second day of testimony in the bank fraud trial,

Under cross examination Mr Gates, admitted that he had another relationship involving first-class flights and luxury hotels, but denied these were funded with money embezzled from Manafort. Mr Manafort's defence called this "the secret Rick Gates".

Prosecutors summoned Mr Gates, described by witnesses as Mr Manafort's right-hand man, to give jurors the first-hand account of a co-conspirator they allege helped Mr Manafort carry out an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and bank fraud scheme.

On Monday, Mr Gates said the pair had committed crimes together by stashing money in foreign bank accounts and falsifying bank loan documents in order to disguise income from US tax officials.

He also acknowledged having embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Mr Manafort.

Mr Manafort has pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of bank and tax fraud and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts.

The charges largely predate his five months on the Trump campaign.

Please allow a moment for the live blog to load

Mr Manaforts defence hinges on pinning the blame on his former aide, and his attorneys have accused Mr Gates of embezzling millions of dollars from his former boss.

The case drew scores of people who waited in line for hours outside the courthouse and then jammed into both the courtroom and an overflow room that contained a video feed of the proceedings.

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In early testimony on Tuesday, Mr Gates related his role in setting up offshore bank accounts for Mr Manafort, a complex arrangement that was requested by those paying for Mr Manafort's political consultancy work in Ukraine.

Mr Gates testified that Mr Manafort negotiated the offshore payment structure in person with Ukrainian business people, and then Mr Gates would then codify the details in writing.

Mr Gates also described to jurors how he repeatedly submitted fake financial documents allegedly at Manafort's behest as his former boss became concerned he was paying too much in taxes and, later, that his funds were drying up after the consultancy work fell away after 2014

Associated Press
By Dan Whitcomb LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A Northern California wildfire became the biggest in state history on Tuesday, eclipsing a previous record set only eight months ago, as hot, windy conditions fanned 17 blazes in what Governor Jerry Brown has called California's "new normal." The Mendocino Complex, made up of two fires, grew to 290,692 acres (117,639 hectares) - nearly the size of Los Angeles - and was expected to burn for the rest of the month, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said. The Mendocino Complex has surpassed the Thomas Fire, which burned 281,893 acres in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties in southern California last December and destroyed more than 1,000 structures. The fires burning in the state are on track to make 2018 California's most destructive wildfire year in over a decade and have rekindled arguments over how the state should tackle the problem. Brown, a Democrat, and state Republicans like Senator Ted Gaines, have called for thinning of overcrowded forests, a move opposed by environmentalists who fear it would kill wildlife. Climate change is widely blamed for higher temperatures that have fueled wildfires not only in California, but places such as Portugal, Sweden and Siberia. Temperatures in Northern California could reach 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 Celsius) over the next few days, the National Weather Service said, making it easier for fire to spread. HITTING BACKYARDS The Mendocino Complex has burnt 75 homes and forced the evacuation of 23,322 people. Firefighters are trying to keep fire out of homes built in woods and forests near communities such as Nice, Lucerne and Clearlake Oaks. "It's going into residences, backyards, farmland," said Mitch Bosma, a spokesman with Cal Fire for the Mendocino Complex Fire. Across the state, 14,000 firefighters fought blazes that have blackened over 619,000 acres. The Carr Fire, blamed for seven deaths in the Shasta-Trinity region north of Sacramento, was 47 percent contained. Firefighters were also battling a 4,000-acre brush fire that forced evacuations in two Orange County canyons southeast of Los Angeles, the Orange County Emergency Operations Center said. The Holy Fire was moving rapidly into the Cleveland National Forest, which straddles Orange and Riverside counties. The blaze and its plume of smoke were visible from as far away as Catalina Island just offshore Los Angeles. (Editing by Bill Tarrant and Diane Craft)
Cincinnati Reds pitcher Matt Harvey returned to Citi Field Monday for the first time since being traded by the Mets. (AP Photo)

Former Mets pitcher Matt Harveys fall from grace with the team was swift and somewhat shocking, coming to an abrupt conclusion on May 5th, when Harvey declined a minor league option and was designated for assignment.

Harvey had a breakout season in 2013, posting a 2.27 ERA and 191 strikeouts over 178 innings. He started that years the All-Star Game in front of the home crowd at Citi Field, and looked poised to do great things for the franchise.

However, that position was short-lived, as he tore his UCL in August 2013, underwent Tommy John surgery in October, and missed the entirely of the 2014 season. In his 2015 return, Harvey put up a 13-8 record with a 2.71 ERA and 188 strikeouts in 189 innings as the Mets won the National League pennant.

But more injury woes struck in 2016, ending his campaign early, and yet more injury and behavior issues shortened his 2017 run.

Harvey started four games in 2018 before being sent to the bullpen, putting up an 0-2 record with a 7.00 ERA. He was traded to the Cincinnati Reds on May 8, and his numbers have since evened-out slightly, posting a 4.79 ERA with the new club.

Harvey returns to where it all began

Monday, the Reds headed to Citi Field for the first time since the trade, with Harveys reception looming as an unknown. Things got off to a rocky start when he scheduled a press conference Sunday at exactly the time the Mets requested he not, but that was later brushed off.

By all other accounts, Harveys presence has been received positively  with a touch of nostalgia.

The Mets pulled a classy move pre-game Monday, airing a tribute video to Harveys time with the team.

Fans reacted to the video warmly.

Certainly more cheers than boos for Matt Harvey at Citi Field tonight. pic.twitter.com/g3wYZpqy6f  Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) August 6, 2018

Harvey was also open with the media pregame about the emotional experience of getting DFAd by the team that first drafted him over a decade ago.

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Matt Harvey said he may have cried a bit when the Mets DFA'd him. Regarding his reception at Citi Field tonight: I can understand that there will be some boos. I do want everybody to know I do regret a lot of mistakes I made. But I did put my heart into this organization."  Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) August 6, 2018

And of course, the return would not be complete without a little shade from the Dark Knight himself.

Matt Harvey on the difference between the Mets and the Reds: "I'm not in the bullpen." pic.twitter.com/53ancf7NXT  Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) August 6, 2018

Its good everyone is laughing about the situation now, because four months ago, they sure werent.

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Health workers will begin administering vaccinations Wednesday to combat a new Ebola outbreak that has already claimed dozens of lives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the countrys health ministry said.

The experimental new vaccine, developed by pharmaceutical company Merck, was deemed successful in its first wide-scale test against a separate recent Ebola outbreak in the countrys northwest, Reuters reports.

That outbreak, which began in May, claimed 33 lives according to the World Health Organization (WHO), before being declared over last month.

The newest outbreak, confirmed by the WHO on Sunday, is located in the Congos northeastern North Kivu Province and neighboring Ituri Province. As of Saturday, the WHO had confirmed 13 of 43 suspected cases, including 33 deaths. Three healthcare workers were also infected, one of them among the dead.

The affected region poses significant challenges for healthcare workers. The northeastern provinces share borders with Uganda and Rwanda and are home to more than one million displaced people, according to the WHO, while a precarious security situation sees sporadic clashes between government forces and armed militia groups.

This new cluster is occurring in an environment which is very different from where we were operating in the northwest, the WHOs Peter Salama said in a news release. This is an active conflict zone. The major barrier will be safely accessing the affected population.

Read more: Ebola Outbreak in the DRC Is Over. But a New Case Raises Concerns

The country has stockpiled more than 3,000 vaccine doses in Kinshasa, the capital, according to Reuters. But first, medical authorities had to establish a cold chain that would keep the new vaccine at or below freezing temperatures in remote, tropical areas. The health ministry said the necessary refrigeration measures were established on Monday, and 12 vaccination teams would be deployed to affected areas.
The Orgueil carbonaceous meteorite, a scientific treasure that fell in 1864 in southwest France (K H Joy)

Organic matter inside meteorites probably formed during the birth of our solar system 4.5 billion years ago  and could offer clues to the origin of life on Earth.

It could also help astronomers work out whether distant solar systems are habitable, researchers say.

Researchers at the University of Manchester investigated carbonaceous chondrites, analysing the oxygen found inside the meteorites.

Organic-rich carbonaceous chondrites are very rare, comprising only a small percentage of all known meteorites.

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Carbonaceous chondrites are made of the first solid materials  such as rocks, organics, water ice, and fine grain dust  formed in the Solar System.

When found on Earth and analysed in detail, they act as time capsules for understanding how planets formed and evolved over billions of years.

Dr Romain, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences said, Chondrites are a snapshot of the early Solar System, providing key insights on how protoplanets and planets formed and were processed.

Earth is a dynamic planet  processes such as plate tectonics and erosion have erased most of the early Earth records.

The researchers say that the meteorites work like a time capsule  capturing how things were in the solar systems early days.

Dr Tartese said, The oxygen isotope pattern was similar to the relationship linking the composition of the Sun, asteroids and terrestrial planets.

Therefore, this likely implies that carbonaceous chondrite organics were formed through chemical reactions in the early Solar System, rather than having been inherited from the interstellar medium.

Using samples from the Museum National dHistoire Naturelle in Paris, the research team spent two years precisely measuring and interpreting the oxygen isotope composition of organics in some of these early-formed meteorites.
Jessica Chastain has long been a leading voice in the #TimesUp movement, and she is known for calling out harmful men in the film industry.

However, the actress has been accused of hypocrisy for choosing Matthew Newton to direct and write her next film, Eve  because he has a history of domestic abuse.

Jessica Chastain is under fire for her choice of director to helm Eve. (Photo: Getty images)

The Australian director pleaded guilty to physically assaulting the Neighbours actress Brooke Satchwell, his then-girlfriend, in 2007. Three years later, his then-fiancee Rachael Taylor (of Jessica Jones fame) accused him of two unprovoked assaults, and a two-year apprehended domestic violence order (akin to a restraining order) was issued against him.

He was charged with breaking the order the following year.

Two of Matthew Newtons past girlfriends have accused him of assault. (Photo: Getty Images)

Chastain, a vocal advocate for gender equality, is expected to co-produce the movie through her all-female production company, Freckle Films.

But her decision to work with Newton has been slammed online.

Im still just so disappointed in jessica Chastain like she used to my feminist queen and always said the right things and now shes being such a hypocrite I seriously dont know what shes doing ugh  indi (@witchyanya) August 6, 2018

In January, I asked Jessica Chastain about making choices when there's been allegations of abuse. She said this. https://t.co/cJatBvDVOx I have trouble seeing how she can justify working with Matthew Newton. https://t.co/SRNTS0zjjd  Marc Fennell (@MarcFennell) August 4, 2018

How does Jessica Chastain claim to be an advocate for women in the industry and has constantly been a part of the MeToo discussion but in the same breath turn around and work with someone who has abused multiple women? This is peak white feminism holy shit https://t.co/M0eP18hOIG  donnia (@fincherism) August 3, 2018

I really, really hope that she didn't know, and now that she does, @jes_chastain will follow through on practicing what she preaches.  Rosie Waterland (@RosieWaterland) August 7, 2018

The actress, who is currently filming It: Chapter Two, said in the past that she has always refused to work with people who have a history of abuse or unacceptable behavior toward women.

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Ive always made choices, in all the work that Ive done, to make sure that on any film set that Im working with people that there isnt a question about whether or not abuse has taken place, she told The Feed.

Its very important to me that I practice what I preach, and that my actions follow my words.

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Los Angeles Angels superstar Mike Trout continues to be sidelined by a wrist issue. Trout hasnt played since Aug. 1 due to the injury. On Monday, the team announced he would miss a few more games after receiving a cortisone injection in his injured wrist.

Mike Trout sidelined with wrist injury

Trout initially injured himself on a slide on Aug. 1. He was not in the lineup for the teams next game and was considered day-to-day. After a few days off, the issue hasnt gotten much better. Thats what led to Trouts cortisone shot Monday. Hes still considered day-to-day.

Mike Trout receives cortisone shot in injured wrist

Cortisone shots usually require a few days to fully take hold. If the team is confident the shot will help, Trout could return to the lineup soon. Depending on the severity of the injury, its possible Trout will need another cortisone shot later in the year.

Mike Trouts wrist injury could impact the MVP race

Trout hasnt been placed on the disabled list, which indicates the team believes he could return soon. Even if he only misses a few more games, Trouts absence could impact the MVP race. He has a narrow lead over Cleveland Indians infielder Jose Ramirez for the award. Trout has accumulated 7.6 fWAR in 2018. Ramirez is at 7.5 fWAR. WAR isnt the only stat people should use when determining the MVP, but it does a good job giving fans a snapshot of the league. That snapshot says Ramirez and Trout are neck and neck right now.

Will Mike Trouts injury hurt the Angels postseason chances?

At 55-58, the Angels are in a tough spot. They need to go on a run in order to topple the Oakland Athletics and Seattle Mariners for the second wild-card spot. Trout would definitely help, but the team is facing a steep uphill battle.

Mike Trout will continue to be sidelined by a wrist injury. (AP Photo)

      

Chris Cwik is a writer for Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at christophercwik@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!

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The father of missing Iowa jogger Mollie Tibbetts believes she is alive and with someone she knows.

The 20-year-old has been missing since July 18, when she disappeared after going for a run near her boyfriend's Brooklyn home.

"I think someone went to the house that Mollie knew or that Mollie trusted and that she left with them willingly," Robert Tibbetts, Mollie's father, told CBS News. "Now they're in over their head and they don't know what to do."

The reward for information leading to finding Mollie has reached $260,000.

"My two cents is that no one went into that house to hurt her, Robert told Fox News. That there was some kind of misunderstanding about the nature of their relationship and at this point they don't know how to get out from under this.

On Sunday, police found the body of a young white woman in her 20s, but it turned out not to be the missing college student.

Law enforcement officials have repeatedly combed through fields and hog farms in Deep River, Iowa, about a 20-minute drive from where Mollie was last seen, but have declined to say why they are focusing on those areas.

As leads come in, and information is evaluated, the investigative team responds to those and prioritizes those," Iowa Department of Public Safety official Kevin Winker told CBS News. I would expect those searches to continue."

Farm owner Wayne Cheney has been questioned by police two times, he told Fox News.

"I don't even remember what they asked me," he told WHO-TV of his interactions with law enforcement, noting he did not know Mollie. "It was a waste of my time, I know that."

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Investigators searching for Mollie Tibbetts in Iowa have discovered the body of a young white woman in her 20s, but they do not believe it to be the missing college student, whose whereabouts remain a mystery more than two weeks after she vanished.

The unidentified womans remains were found in Lee County, about 100 miles southeast of Brooklyn, where Tibbetts was last seen jogging on July 18. The Iowa Department of Public Safety, however, said they have no reason to believe the body is that of Tibbetts.

Officials have vetted more than 200 anonymous tips and have searched numerous areas in the search for the University of Iowa psychology major.

Law enforcement officials have repeatedly combed through fields and hog farms in Deep River, Iowa, about a 20-minute drive from where Tibbetts was last seen, but have declined to say why they are focusing on those areas.

As leads come in, and information is evaluated, the investigative team responds to those and prioritizes those," Iowa Department of Public Safety official Kevin Winker told CBS News. I would expect those searches to continue."

Farm owner Wayne Cheney reportedly told Fox News he was questioned at least two times by investigators, whom he has allowed to search his property and cellphone, but said he would not take a polygraph test.

"I don't even remember what they asked me," he told WHO-TV of his interactions with law enforcement, noting he did not know Tibbetts. "It was a waste of my time, I know that."

Cheney has previously been convicted of harassment, Inside Edition confirmed.

Authorities have not named any suspects in Tibbetts disappearance.

"We're not in a position to say who is a suspect, who isn't a suspect, or that there are suspects," Winker said.

He also declined to confirm reports that a red shirt had been recovered near a hog farm that was previously searched. Employees of a day care where Tibbetts worked wore red shirts, according to Fox News.

Story continues

Authorities warned about the danger of spreading misinformation, as armchair sleuths take to the internet to dissect clues and theories posited about the case.

"It's a delicate balance with this information," Winker told reporters on Friday. But, we believe this is the right approach. We're going to stay with this approach. We recognize that it's frustrating for everyone involved, but we believe it gives us the best opportunity to resolve this investigation."

As authorities continue to search for Tibbetts, the reward for her safe return has reached $260,000. Crime Stoppers of Central Iowa said Sunday that the 20-year-old's relatives believe she is alive but may have been kidnapped.

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Tuesday, August 7, 2018

What to watch today

Tuesday comes with the June job openings and labor turnover survey (JOLTS). Economists estimate the number of job openings in the U.S. remained historically high at 6.6 million. Media giant Disney (DIS) is expected to announce quarterly earnings after the closing bell.

Top news

REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

US says judge in AT&T merger ruling ignored common sense: U.S. antitrust officials outlined their arguments for why a judges ruling approving AT&T Inc.s (T) takeover of Time Warner Inc. should be reversed, saying the court ignored fundamental principles of economics and common sense. [Bloomberg]

US economic sanctions against Iran back in effect: The first set of U.S. sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early Tuesday under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, targeting financial transactions that involve U.S. dollars, Irans automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold. [AP]

Facebook asks US banks for customer data: The social-media giant has asked large U.S. banks to share detailed financial information about their customers, including card transactions and checking-account balances, as part of an effort to offer new services to users. Facebook (FB) increasingly wants to be a platform where people buy and sell goods and services, besides connecting with friends. [The Wall Street Journal]

GM cuts a health-care deal: General Motors Co. (GM) has struck a deal with a Detroit-based hospital system to offer a new coverage option to employees, upending the traditional benefits setup in an attempt to lower costs and improve care. [The Wall Street Journal]

Icahn to send letter to oppose Cigna-Express Scripts deal: Investor Carl Icahn will send an open letter to the shareholders of insurer Cigna Corp. (CI) asking them to vote against the companys $52 billion Express Scripts Holding Co. (ESRX) buyout, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing a draft of the letter. [Reuters]

Story continues

For more of the latest news, go to Yahoo Finance

Smoke rises from the Holy Fire in Cleveland National Forest on August 6, 2018 in Temescal Valley, California. The fast moving brush fire has burned at least 4,000 acres. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images,)

Yahoo Finance Originals

By one key measure, Amazon is the most underestimated company in the S&P 500

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A mother of five who is a writer posted a list on Facebook to promote sex education for younger people. Facebook took her post down. (Photo: Constance Hall via Facebook)

A blogger and mother of five, Constance Hall, has called out Facebook for its removal of a post she created in hopes that it would help educate young people about sex. According to Hall, Facebook said the post violated the social media sites community standards.

Facebook legit just deleted my post on sex ed for young people!! Seriously??? said it violated their community standards Unbelievable. Obviously too many people reported it, Hall wrote.

The now-removed post, according to the (U.K.) Daily Mail, was written for young boys and girls who dont want to listen to their parents coz [sic] thats cringey.

Hall informed her fanbase that if they want to read her views on sex ed, they will have to cop her new book, Still a Queen, since it cannot be published on Facebook.

Although some may have found the original text crude or explicit, the lessons that Hall presents are beneficial, especially for young people. Theres a severe lack of sex education in U.S. schools, and its doing children a disservice  some experts go as far as calling it a sexual health time bomb.

The list, which featured 11 points in all and can be read in full here, focused mainly on giving and receiving consent. It also discusses a need for women to accept their bodies and to explore what feels good to them, to help men pleasure them as well. Hall says to men that size doesnt matter and that communication is vital.

Apparently the content designed to liberate women and educate boys isnt appropriate content for facebook, Hall wrote on her Instagram.

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The 2018-19 Premier League season is upon us. Kickoff, believe it or not, is just days away. To get you set for the planets most enthralling 38-game soccer circuit, Yahoo Sports Premier League XI will delve into the 11 most compelling questions ahead of the coming campaign. Next up is Liverpools expensive but ambitious quest to reclaim the English top flight.



So how much has Liverpool really closed the gap on Manchester City?

Like many questions, the answer is the question itself.

The Reds finished fourth a season ago  a full 25 points behind City in the Premier League. Tottenham and Manchester United both finished above Liverpool as well, so even being asked to compare Liverpool to Manchester City provides the evidence of how much Liverpool has already succeeded in the transfer window.

On the heels of the clubs first Champions League final since Athens in 2007, Liverpool in 2018-19 is a respectable shout for the Premier League title.

With a healthy Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino trio up front, along with Virgil Van Dijk in the back, Liverpool was one solid goal keeper away from, literally, saving enough points to finish above Spurs and United.

Enter Alisson Becker, who is known far better by his first name. Concussion or not, Loris Karius hasnt displayed the class of Alisson, who has simply been a class above Simon Mignolet. Alisson is a leader, as the best goal keepers often are, and Liverpool is undoubtedly better with his addition.

For perspective of Alissons quality, the Brazilian No. 1 kept Manchester Citys Ederson from playing a single minute in the 2018 World Cup, and Ederson made a legitimate case as the best keeper in the Premier League a season ago  with only Man Uniteds David de Gea making a strong enough case to sway the audience.

Alisson alone could have been enough to improve the Reds, evidenced by the fact that he was the priciest purchase of a busy transfer window for Liverpool.

Jurgen Klopp bought 24-year-old Fabinho from Monaco to soften the blow of oft-injured Emre Cans free move to Juventus. The Germans move was notably less celebrated than Cristiano Ronaldos arrival at Juventus, but Juves gain is greater than Liverpools loss in Cans case. His Turin jump is eerily reminiscent of fellow oft-injured German defensive midfielder Sami Khedira arriving in 2015 at age 28.

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Can is 24, and Juventus is a good fit, but Fabinho is an upgrade in the middle of the park and solidifies Liverpools midfield to a far greater extent than the German midfielder provided.

Furthermore, Liverpools summer purchases of Fabinho from Monaco, Naby Keita via RB Leipzig and Alisson from AS Roma would all have been club-record signings had the Reds not coughed up $100.5 million to finally secure Southamptons Van Dijk in late December of 2017, soiling the idea of the January transfer window beginning in January.

Just 14 months after Salah arrived on Merseyside for a club-record fee, the star attacker now ranks only fifth on the list of Liverpools most expensive transfers.

Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool are prepared to go right at defending Premier League champion Manchester City. (The Independent)

But how much has Liverpool closed the gap on Manchester City?

Well, thats a bit more complicated, because that depends on Manchester City.

Based on trajectory and quality, Liverpool is Manchester Citys top external challenger because Pep Guardiolas team is coming off the first-ever 100-point Premier League season. No team has ever dominated the Premier League like that before. Then, the Citizens added Riyadh Mahrez to help a team that scored 106 goals (which is a Premier League record of course) score more goals.

Everything considered, Liverpool is Manchester Citys best competition, and head-to-head only plays a small factor when it comes to winning the league. After all, Liverpool beat Manchester City in three out of four meetings during the 2017-18 campaign before beefing up the squad in the summer. A Premier League split and Champions League quarterfinals sweep still meant the Reds lost the league by a massive margin to the Citizens.

The truth is that Manchester Citys ability to dominate the Premier League like Juventus steamrolls Serie A and Bayern Munich burns the Bundesliga makes it difficult to directly find a competitor if City replicates its dominance.

Still, Liverpool has stepped forward where the other usual suspects are still standing back and waiting to have their names called. Jose Mourinho and Manchester United matched Leicester Citys points total from 2015-16, but Brazilian midfielder Fred arriving from Shakhtar Donetsk and 19-year-old right back Diogo Dalot joining from FC Porto dont seem to shout dramatic improvement at Old Trafford.

Mourinho keeps talking about one more signing, but a single player wouldnt likely match Liverpools activity. Traditionally, Spurs like to leave their business late, but Tottenham has legitimately signed zero players in the summer of 2018.

One should take a moment to mention that Liverpool even added Xherdan Shaqiri, who is a dynamic difference-maker.

Klopps energetic pressing and pushing philosophy, referred to by the cliched term heavy metal football, nonetheless leads to goals. The defensive improvements, along with depth in the middle third of the pitch, only reinforces that Liverpool is the clear challenger should the Citizens stumble.

Manchester City may still be clear favorites on day No. 1, but Liverpool looks like the best bet to challenge the Citizens. And thats a start  which is, fittingly, what the Premier League season is about to do.

Shahan Ahmed is a soccer columnist for Yahoo! Sports. Follow Shahan on Twitter: @ShahanLA.

Monday: What could derail Man Citys title defense?

Monday: Can Sarri revolutionize or stabilize Chelsea?

Monday: Whos getting relegated?

Tuesday: Who, if anybody, can break up the top six?

Tuesday: Is Liverpool closing on City?

Tuesday: What to expect at Arsenal post-Wenger?

Wednesday: Is a Mourinho flameout already underway?

Wednesday: Is Spurs trophy deadline approaching?

Wednesday: Wolves: Shady, brilliant, or both?

Thursday a.m.: Predictions

Thursday p.m.: Transfer window winners/losers
By Hyonhee Shin

SEOUL, Aug 6 (Reuters) - North Korean state media called on Monday for the United States to drop sanctions, saying Pyongyang had demonstrated good faith by ending its nuclear weapons testing and handing over the remains of U.S. troops killed in the Korean War.

The statements came just days after a confidential United Nations report concluded North Korea has not stopped its nuclear and missile programmes, in breach of U.N. resolutions.

North Korea and the United States vowed to work to end Pyongyang's weapons programmes at a landmark summit in June in Singapore, but have struggled to reach an agreement to accomplish that goal.

The North's state media accused Washington of "acting opposite" to its plan to improve ties, despite Pyongyang making goodwill gestures, including a moratorium on nuclear and missile tests, the dismantling of a nuclear site, and the return of the remains of U.S. soldiers killed in the 1950-53 Korean War.

Such "practical measures" had already deprived U.N. Security Council resolutions of their reason for being, said the Rodong Sinmun, a ruling Workers' Party mouthpiece.

"There have been outrageous arguments coming out of the U.S. State Department that it won't ease sanctions until a denuclearisation is completed, and reinforcing sanctions is a way to raise its negotiating power," the newspaper said in an editorial.

"How could the sanctions, which were a stick the U.S. administration had brandished as part of its hostile policy against us, promote the two countries' amity?"

The editorial, which was run along with front page articles and photos of leader Kim Jong Un's visit to a catfish farm in a display of his shift in focus to the economy, was a fresh sign of Pyongyang's frustration over the slow-moving nuclear negotiations.

Under U.S. President Donald Trump, the United States pushed the United Nations to impose tough sanctions on North Korea as Kim conducted a string of missile and nuclear tests last year.

Story continues

At a security forum on Saturday, the two sides sparred over the Singapore agreement, with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo calling for maintaining sanctions against Pyongyang, and his North Korean counterpart, Ri Yong Ho, criticising Washington for "retreating" from ending the war during a speech.

Pompeo suggested the North's continued work on its weapons programmes was inconsistent with Kim's commitment to denuclearise, although he expressed optimism the process would be achieved.

North Korea's propaganda websites on Monday also urged the United States to drop sanctions and build trust.

One outlet, Uriminzokkiri, lambasted the sanctions and pressure campaign as "anachronistic" and a hurdle for better relations, calling for efforts to officially declare an end to the Korea War.

The Korean War ended in an armistice, not a peace treaty, leaving the U.S.-led United Nations forces, including South Korea, technically still at war with the North.

The State Department has said it is committed to building a peace mechanism to replace the armistice, but only after the North abandons its nuclear programme.

Maeri, another North Korean outlet, stressed the need for U.S. action to build confidence in response to the North's moves to close its weapons programmes and send back the soldiers' remains.

"It takes two to tango," the website said.

A spokesman for South Korea's presidential Blue House told reporters on Monday: "We would want North Korea to speed up denuclearisation, and the United States to show a sincere attitude toward what North Korea demands as corresponding action." (Reporting by Hyonhee Shin. Editing by Lincoln Feast.)
Police in Sag Harbor, New York, arrested and charged NASCAR chairman Brian France with driving under the influence Sunday evening.

Officers in the high-priced Hamptons hamlet say France blew through a stop sign in his 2017 Lexus at 7:30, prompting a traffic stop. France was determined to be in an intoxicated condition and arrested. After a subsequent search, he was also found to be in possession of oxycodone, a powerful narcotic pain reliever.

TMZ reports Frances blood alcohol content was more than two times the legal limit, and claims France name-dropped President Donald Trump as he was being arrested.

Mug shot of the @NASCAR CEO Brian France who was arrested over the weekend. pic.twitter.com/fi3YoaMkTn  Ryan Ruggiero (@RyanRuggiero) August 6, 2018

France spent the night in jail and is now facing charges of aggravated driving while intoxicated (the aggravated charge is reserved for 0.18 BAC or higher) and criminal possession of a controlled substance.

We are aware of an incident that occurred last night and are in the process of gathering information, NASCAR said in a statement to ESPN. We take this as a serious matter and will issue a statement after we have all of the facts.

In a later statement Monday afternoon, NASCAR said France has taken an indefinite leave of absence. His uncle Jim France, who currently serves as NASCARs Vice Chairman and Executive Vice President, has assumed the role of interim chairman.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story mistakenly identified Jim France as Brian Frances brother. Jim is Brians uncle.

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Any NASCAR corporate glee that emerged from Chase Elliotts maiden win Sunday at Watkins Glen was metaphorically halted as Brian Frances car was literally halted by Sag Harbor (New York) police Sunday evening.

France, coincidentally enough, hadnt stopped at a stop sign at approximately 7:30 p.m. Police determined France had a blood-alcohol content that was twice the legal limit and said they found oxycodone pills in his possession.

After he spent the night in jail France announced Monday that he would take a leave of absence from his role as NASCARs chairman and CEO to address personal issues.

It was easy to joke just what France is taking a leave of absence from. Hes been aloof in recent years, making infrequent public appearances on race weekends while hosting less than a handful of annual media availabilities. Those infrequent public appearances have made his relatively frequent oddities stand out like when he awkwardly handed Martin Truex Jr. his championship ring at NASCARs banquet, falsely claimed that NASCARs television ratings were not decreasing (they are) in November and when he bizarrely made an unprompted speech to drivers about the risks of blocking their competitors on the track before the 2017 Daytona 500.

Frances tenure as NASCARs CEO has been one defined by change. NASCAR started (and revamped every three years) a playoff format under his watch, introduced multiple generations of cars each safer than the next, restructured its television deals and unveiled an ownership system designed to benefit the established owners at its top level among other changes.

Theres more transition on the horizon too. As television ratings have declined by nearly half in the past 10 years, star drivers have retired and the newest title sponsor is only sticking around for three seasons, NASCAR is setting itself up for a future of change. Those changes could be to the schedule, the way NASCAR handles sponsorships, and to rules that govern the parts and setups of cars to change the way they drive and handle at certain tracks.

Story continues

A leadership change should be included in that list as well. Frances shadow dictatorship style needs to end. Just take a look at the Twitter likes from Kevin Harvick and Kyle Larson, two of the series most prominent drivers. Each driver hit the heart button on tweets suggesting that NASCAR needed a leadership overhaul.

Whether or not France returns to his role as CEO and chairman isnt for us to decide. Much of the decision will likely fall to his uncle Jim France  the man taking his place on an interim basis  and his sister Lesa France Kennedy. Together Jim and Lesa, also the chairman of International Speedway Corporation, make up the majority of NASCARs ownership. If the family-owned series is truly exploring a sale, then their decision on the future of the sports leadership has even more layers.

But no matter if France stays or leaves as NASCARs top leader following its most embarrassing moment of the year, a more hands-on approach is needed going forward from whomever has the No. 1 title. Public confidence and rational decision making are paramount in any rejuvenation attempt.

And thats what NASCAR is about to embark on. Public confidence has waned in France  especially from a vocal sect of fans, some of whom still pine for a season-long championship format  and it was abundantly clear before Sunday nights event that his leadership style annoyed some inside the sport. With great titles come great responsibility and it was fair to think France wasnt living up to his responsibility as the face of the sport.

France has an opportunity to re-establish his credibility if he returns after hopefully successfully addressing his personal issues. He shouldnt waste it. Neither he nor NASCAR can afford it.

      

Nick Bromberg is a writer for Yahoo Sports.

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1. Kyle Busch: We made sure to note what Busch did Sunday afternoon but its worth repeating. He gained 22 spots in the final 32 laps at a road course. Thats incredible.

Busch had a right to be upset with the troubles that plagued his team on the final pit stop. They ruined any chance he had of racing Chase Elliott and Martin Truex Jr. for the win. And given how well he sliced through the field in the final third of the race he probably had a pretty good chance in a three-way battle.

Busch currently boasts the best average finish of anyone in the Cup Series and has a firm grip on the points lead. Hes 70 points up on Kevin Harvick. If Busch maintains that gap over the next three races hes going to clinch the regular-season points title at Darlington, just like Truex did a year ago.

2. Martin Truex Jr.: Truex has now finished second to both Erik Jones and Chase Elliott, the two first-time winners in 2018. Well let you write your own young driver beats defending champion for first victory! narratives in your own time.

Truex is over 120 points back of Kyle Busch and his season is better than 2017 so far. Soak that in for a minute. Truex had four wins, 10 top-five finishes and 17 top-10 finishes in the first 26 races of 2017. Through the first 22 races of the season this season Truex has four wins and 15 top-five finishes. Want a statistical oddity? Truex hasnt finished outside of the top five inside of the top 10 this season.

3. Kevin Harvick: Harvick finished 10th on Sunday. As Busch and Truex were near the front of the field throughout the majority of the weekend Harvick was off. He didnt post speeds at the top of the chart in practice and started the race in 15th. Hell be competitive again at Michigan, a place where he finished second to teammate Clint Bowyer in June and probably would have won at if the race went a few laps longer before the rain began.

4. Chase Elliott: Elliott isnt even in the top 10 of the points standings. Hes still 11th. But is he emerging as the top threat for that coveted No. 4 spot in the NASCAR hierarchy? Theres a decent case to be made for it.

Story continues

He now has eight playoff points, two fewer than Clint Bowyer. But all eight of those points have come within the last three races and hes finished inside of the top 13 in each of the last four races. Theres still a big gulf between Busch, Harvick, Truex, and everyone else, but Elliott could now be the guy thats leading the other side.

I feel like the past few weeks  have we had the actual pace of the 4 and the 18? No, probably not, Elliott said. But have we been a hell of a lot better than what we were at the beginning of the year? Yes. And have we been a legitimate top5 car? I would say so. So thats a big improvement from what weve been. You dont just go from running 12th to 15th to winning these races overnight consistently.

5. Kurt Busch: Did you know that Kurt Busch has the most points of any driver not named Kyle Busch, Harvick or Truex? Its true. Busch is now two points ahead of Clint Bowyer for fourth after finishing ninth on Sunday. Bowyer was 11th  two points behind Busch.

We had a surprise flat right-rear and that forced us into taking two tires and we had to improvise from there, Busch said. Its kind of a bummer, but we made the best we could with it and got a top 10.

6. Kyle Larson: Larson finished sixth and he was pleased with that.

Yeah, a lot better finish than I thought we would have, Larson said. I always feel like I dont race well at these places, but able to run a nice smooth race, so I was happy about that and I think we finished sixth or seventh, so yeah, pretty cool.

7. Clint Bowyer: Bowyer was 11th, meaning Stewart-Haas Racing had drivers finish ninth, 10th and 11th. Aric Almirola was not eighth or 12th because he hit the wall early in the race.

8. Erik Jones: Jones finished fifth on Sunday. Hes continuing his steady improvement. It was happening before Daytona and its continuing to happen after that win. He has 11 top-10 finishes now and six of them have happened in the last seven races.

9. Denny Hamlin: Hamlin started first but didnt stay there for very long. He only led two laps and his race highlight wasnt a very good one. This crazy pit stop sent Hamlin to the back because he ran over the air hose.

(via NBC)

The chaos happened because Hamlins team  like many others  were pitting the outside tires on the car last in an apparent attempt to save time.

10. Ryan Blaney: Almirola went spinning after early contact from Blaney. It appeared that Almirola had no idea Blaney was inside of him in turn 7. Blaney went on to finish 12th.

11. Brad Keselowski: Keselowski was caught behind Hamlins car  you can see him stop for Hamlins crew in that GIF above. Heres his explanation when we asked about teams pitting the outside of the car last.

Im not 100% sure. But think it has to do with not carrying a tire back so far. https://t.co/7X8ngdHDzO  Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) August 5, 2018

12. Joey Logano: Logano finished last for the first time since 2009 after early contact led to his retirement at Watkins Glen a after a single lap. After being the most consistent driver in terms of laps completed for much of the early part of the season, randomness is catching up to Logano.

The Lucky Dog: Daniel Suarez was fourth

The DNF: Outside of Logano, theres really no good candidate.

      

Nick Bromberg is a writer for Yahoo Sports.

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Bamako (AFP) - The Mali government on Monday published a list of 871 polling stations which were unable to operate during last week's presidential election due to outbreaks of violence, adding that almost a quarter of a million people had been unable to vote.

A total of 245,888 voters -- mainly in northern Timbuktu region, central Mopti and Segou in the south -- "were unable to vote for various reasons" during the July 21 election, the ministry of territorial administration said.

The government was responding to calls by the opposition and the European Union to provide more details of the contested vote results.

The three main opposition candidates in Mali's presidential election announced Sunday they were mounting a legal challenge in the country's constitutional court alleging "ballot box-stuffing" and other irregularities, after incumbent Ibrahim Boubacar Keita took the lead in the first round of voting.

Keita won 41.42 percent of the vote in July's presidential poll, according to provisional results, easily ahead of the second place rival Soumaila Cisse with 17.8 percent. They are set to contest a runoff vote next Sunday.

The government had earlier said that 715 polling stations had remained closed out of a total 23,000 nationwide.

Two days after polling took place the European Union pressured Mali to present a "complete and detailed list" of polling stations where a key presidential election could not be held due to violence.

Security was a central issue during the campaign, in which 73-year-old Keita is seeking re-election with the international community hoping the poll will strengthen a 2015 peace accord.

In Mali's north, where the state is barely present, armed groups who signed the peace accord helped to ensure security.

The vote was monitored by observers from the European Union, the African Union, the regional ECOWAS grouping and the Francophonie organisation.

Violence also marred the lead-up to the election, despite the presence of 15,000 UN peacekeepers, 4,500 French troops and a much heralded five-nation anti-terror G5 Sahel force.

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The jihadist violence has spread from northern Mali to the centre and south of the country and spilled over into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, often inflaming communal conflicts.

On Monday 18 of the presidential candidates denounced an "electoral hold-up" and called for a major protest in Bamako on Tuesday.

The constitutional court is due to officially announce the first-round results on Wednesday.

Mali, considered a linchpin state in west Africa's troubled Sahel region, is one of the world's poorest countries, with most people living on less than $2 a day.
Its well known that sleeping too little is bad for your health, but a new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association has shown that getting too much sleep can also be risky.

Researchers reviewed data from 74 studies involving 3 million people and suggested that excessive sleeping may be a marker for poor health. Sleeping for more than 10 hours indicated a higher risk of dying from a stroke (a 56 percent increase) or cardiovascular disease (49 percent).

People who slept for more than 10 hours a night were 30 percent more likely to die prematurely than those who slept for eight hours.

New research suggests that sleeping too much could be risky. (Photo: Rex)

Abnormal sleep is a marker of elevated cardiovascular risk, and greater consideration should be given in exploring both duration and sleep quality during patient consultations, said the lead researcher, Chun Shing Kwok of Keele University in England.

There are cultural, social, psychological, behavioral, pathophysiological, and environmental influences on our sleep, such as the need to care for children or family members, irregular working shift patterns, physical or mental illness, and the 24-hour availability of commodities in modern society, Kwok added.

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Apple, Spotify, Facebook and YouTube each removed the majority of conservative radio show host Alex Jones content from their platforms, citing community guidelines against hate speech.

All episodes from five out of the six podcasts produced by Jones company InfoWars were removed by Apple from their iTunes and Podcast platforms on Sunday, including the Alex Jones Show and War Room. Only one InfoWars podcast, Real News With David Knight, is still available on Apple.

Apple does not tolerate hate speech, and we have clear guidelines that creators and developers must follow to ensure we provide a safe environment for all of our users, a company spokesperson told BuzzFeed News. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment from TIME.

Facebook followed suit on Monday, removing the InfoWars page along with three other offshoot pages for repeated violations of Community Standards.

We believe in representing a wide range of views, so long as people are respectful to those with differing opinions, Facebook wrote in a statement. Podcasts that violate these guidelines are removed from our directory making them no longer searchable or available for download or streaming. We believe in representing a wide range of views, so long as people are respectful to those with differing opinions.

YouTube became the latest tech company to turn against Jones Monday by removing the Alex Jones Channel page.

This account has been terminated for violating YouTubes Community Guidelines, a notice says on YouTubes link that formerly led to Jones channel.

A YouTube spokesperson said in a statement to TIME that when users violate these policies repeatedly, like our policies against hate speech and harassment or our terms prohibiting circumvention of our enforcement measures, we terminate their accounts.

The removal of Jones podcast from those platforms comes after Spotify deleted some episodes of the Alex Jones Show last week. On Monday, the music streaming company deleted all of the Alex Jones Show content, though four other InfoWars podcasts are still available to stream.

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Jones has not directly addressed the elimination of his content on these platforms, but did retweet a few people, including InfoWars employee Paul Joseph Watson, who criticized the move as an attack on free speech.

Facebook has permanently BANNED Infowars.



For unspecified "hate speech". They didn't even tell us what the offending posts were.



This sets a chilling precedent for free speech.



To all other conservative news outlets - you are next.



The great censorship purge has truly begun. pic.twitter.com/v7Yo9hI0q3  Paul Joseph Watson (@PrisonPlanet) August 6, 2018

This sets a chilling precedent for free speech, Watson tweeted. To all other conservative news outlets  you are next. The great censorship purge has truly begun.

Some applauded the companies including Sleeping Giants, a lobbying group attempting to get big tech companies to remove hateful content. Tomorrow, Alex Jones will scream about his ban from iTunes being political. There are plenty of conservative & liberal podcasts that dont harass the parents of children killed at Sandy Hook or Las Vegas shooting victims. This was not about right or left, but right and wrong, the group tweeted.

Tomorrow, Alex Jones will scream about his ban from iTunes being political.



There are plenty of conservative & liberal podcasts that dont harass the parents of children killed at Sandy Hook or Las Vegas shooting victims.



This was not about right or left, but right and wrong.  Sleeping Giants (@slpng_giants) August 6, 2018

Jones is currently being sued by the parents of Sandy Hook victims for claiming the 2012 mass school shooting was a hoax.
After an incredible run in recent years, Nvidia Corporation (Nasdaq: NVDA) stock is up another 32 percent in 2018. The latest data from Bank of America suggests hedge funds aren't buying Nvidia, but analyst Vivek Arya says that trend is good news for Nividia investors.

Bank of America's latest fund holding data from July indicates fund managers are bullish on the semiconductor boom but not quite sold on NVDA stock. Semiconductor stocks currently have a 1.1x weighting among fund managers relative to their weighting in the S&P 500 index. At the same time, semiconductor stocks are modestly underweight relative to the rest of the technology sector. Arya says neither of these trends changed much in July.

[See: 7 of the Best Stocks to Buy for 2018.]

In the past three months, fund weighting of NVDA stock had declined by 4 percent to 0.89x relative to its weighting in the S&P 500. As of July, 28 percent of fund managers own NVDA stock, up 1.15 percent in the past three months.

Popular semiconductor stocks Intel Corp. ( INTC) (0.86x weighting) and Advanced Micro Devices ( AMD) (0.17x weighting) are also underweighted by fund managers.

Arya says the lack of respect for Nvidia is a bullish contrarian indicator.

"We consider the 28 percent ownership still quite low relative to other larger-cap semis that are owned by 30 to 35 percent of fund managers or large-cap growth tech stocks that are owned by 40-plus percent of managers," Arya says.

Arya says Nvidia is demonstrating some extremely encouraging trends in the red-hot gaming market, and Nvidia's next-generation Volta/Turing gaming cards could be coming as soon as the Gamescom conference on Aug. 21.

Arya estimates 73 percent of Nvidia card users are ready for upgrades and says Wall Street doesn't seem to appreciate the upside Nvidia's gaming business can provide in 2019.

[See: 8 Great Stocks for Millennials to Buy.]

Bank of America's latest Steam data indicates 74.3 percent of gamers currently use Nvidia cards compared to only 15.1 percent who user AMD cards. Arya estimates Nvidia's gaming business can support at least 20 percent annual revenue growth in the long-term.

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"In our view, NVDA is uniquely positioned to address some of the largest and fastest-growing parts of technology, including gaming, artificial intelligence, deep learning, self-driving cars and virtual reality," Arya says.

Bank of America has a "buy" rating and $340 price target for NVDA stock.

Wayne Duggan is a freelance investment strategy reporter with a focus on energy and emerging market stocks. He has a degree in brain and cognitive sciences from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and specializes in the psychological challenges of investing. He is a senior financial market reporter for Benzinga and has contributed financial market analysis to Motley Fool, Seeking Alpha and InvestorPlace. He is also the author of the book "Beating Wall Street With Common Sense," which focuses on the practical strategies he has used to outperform the stock market. You can follow him on Twitter @DugganSense, check out his latest content at tradingcommonsense.com or email him at wpd@tradingcommonsense.com.
As attendance at Hong Kong's traditional protest rallies wanes, one pro-democracy group is trying to win hearts and minds in a more pragmatic way -- through plumbing, electrics and household repairs.

Calling themselves Fixing Hong Kong, the group's volunteers mend broken appliances, furniture, pipes and wiring, hoping that forging community spirit will lead to greater political awareness.

The novel approach comes as semi-autonomous Hong Kong's freedoms are under threat from an increasingly assertive Beijing and the city's splintered democracy movement struggles for momentum.

Volunteers visit homes in the To Kwa Wan neighbourhood each week, making appointments for DIY jobs and offering repair services for free, with residents usually paying for their own replacement materials.

They work in pairs, one fixing, the other chatting. Sometimes the conversation will turn to politics, other times not.

"We hope to gather more energy bit by bit through these most simple contacts and bonding," Fixing Hong Kong member Max Leung told AFP.

Resident Mr Wong said volunteers from the group had fixed his television. They also helped him and others write letters to officials over concerns local people were being rehoused in poor conditions to make way for new development projects.

"Just one person's power is not enough. We need neighbours joining forces for results," Wong said.

Another resident Mr Cheng, a wall painter originally from southern mainland China, said he had not discussed politics with the group, but appreciated their help.

A volunteer was fixing a broken strip light in his apartment when AFP visited.

Cheng's flat is housed in one of numerous rundown blocks in To Kwa Wan, home to low to middle income families and refugees.

He told AFP he was too preoccupied with daily struggles to join any of the group's activities, which range from barbecues to political campaigns, but did not mind the volunteers' pro-democracy ideas.

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"As long as it doesn't hurt me, that's fine," Cheng said.

- Community breakdown -

Fixing Hong Kong was formed by activists who ran a recycling operation at protest camps set up during the massive 2014 Umbrella Movement rallies, which called for free and fair leadership elections in Hong Kong.

The rallies failed to win reform and since then activists have been prosecuted on protest-related charges and disqualified from the legislature, denting the democracy campaign.

At the same time, pro-democracy politicians have been criticised for losing touch with the grassroots while some pro-Beijing candidates have become more strategically focused on working-class voters and livelihood issues.

Small groups like Fixing Hong Kong believe going back to neighbourhood level is the best way to rebuild support.

The approach is a legacy of the rallies, says researcher Klavier Wong, who says the protests gave a rare opportunity for young Hong Kongers to "become aware of how to communicate and interact with strangers, and to do something together".

Although the protest camps that sprawled over junctions and roadways in major commercial areas angered some residents, others embraced the spontaneous tent communities which included homework areas for students and art installations.

Fixing Hong Kong is one of the best-known community groups to have grown out of the rallies. Other small-scale projects, from urban rooftop gardens to rural farms, have been set up by activists too.

The trend also taps into young people's desire to reconnect with their surroundings as private housing estates and shopping malls erode a sense of community living, adds Wong, who researches social movements and identity in Hong Kong.

Fixing Hong Kong member Leung says group activities such as reclaiming public spaces for community events may not be directly related to the wider political system, but are still "everyday politics".

"This is to regain control in our lives. Ultimately democracy is like that too, to regain control of the place we live in," he told AFP.

And while volunteer fixer Leung Chan, an electrician, admits it can be hard to engage residents in politics when they have a host of daily struggles, he believes the group should persevere.

"If we don't make the first step, then nothing is possible," he told AFP.

"First there needs to be trust between people."
Michael Peck

Security, Asia

As it had against a Mongol amphibious invasion in the 13th Century, the weather gods would have favored Japan. A devastating typhoon in October 1945 would have delayed Allied invasion preparations, while bad weather in the winter and spring of 1946 would have hampered operations and logistics. And that is just for starters...

Operation Downfall: How America Would Have Invaded Japan (It Would Have Been Hell)

One of the most controversial decisions in history was President Harry Truman's decision to drop atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945.

Some argue that Truman was haunted by estimates that Operation Downfall -- the proposed invasion of Japan in 1945 -- would cost a million American casualties. Others say that Japan was starving and exhausted, the casualty estimates were exaggerated, and that Truman had ulterior motives for dropping the Bomb, namely intimidating the Soviet Union with a display of America's technological might.

Like any counterfactual, there can never be any definitive proof of the outcome of a hypothetical invasion of Japan. But we can make a few reasonable assumptions.

First, we can take a good guess what an amphibious assault on Japan in November or December 1945 would have been like. Fresh in American minds would have been Operation Iceberg, the April 1945 assault on the island of Okinawa, 400 miles from the Japanese mainland and politically a part of Japan proper. Rather than suicidal banzai charges in the face of American firepower, the Japanese changed tactics: they retreated to fortified lines and caves in the Okinawan interior, where they fought for three months and almost to the last man. Meanwhile, wave after wave of kamikaze aircraft dove on U.S. and British Commonwealth ships (even the super-battleship Yamato made a suicide sortie). The result was more than 50,000 U.S. casualties, a quarter-million Japanese military and civilian dead, and more than 400 Allied ships sunk or damaged.

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Operation Downfall would have made Okinawa look like a picnic. "The often-repeated common wisdom holds that there were only 5,500, or at most 7,000, aircraft available and that all of Japans best pilots had been killed in earlier battles, writes historian D.M Giangreco "Hell to Pay: Operation Downfall and the Invasion of Japan 1945-47.

"What the U.S. occupation forces found after the war, however, was that the number of aircraft exceeded 12,700, and thanks to the wholesale conversion of training units into kamikaze formations, there were some 18,600 pilots available. Most were admittedly poor flyers, but due to the massive influx of instructors into combat units, more than 4,200 were rated high enough for either twilight or night missions."

Today's U.S. Navy fears attacks by swarms of Iranian or North Korean small boats, but the Japanese would have unleashed a horde of suicide craft. There were squadrons of training aircraft whose wooden frames were almost invisible to radar, a thousand suicide speedboats, and carefully stockpiled gasoline to power them. The Japanese army was filled with poorly trained conscripts, but they would have been fighting on home ground, in rough and fortified terrain, and backed by a ragtag but indoctrinated civilian militia that would have battled American tanks with farm tools.

As it had against a Mongol amphibious invasion in the 13th Century, the weather gods would have favored Japan. A devastating typhoon in October 1945 would have delayed Allied invasion preparations, while bad weather in the winter and spring of 1946 would have hampered operations and logistics.

Of course, the Allies (Britain and Australia would have contributed warships and aircraft) would have enjoyed air and naval supremacy to isolate and pound Japanese troops, supply lines and whatever factories hadn't been destroyed by U.S. B-29 bombers. They would have had numerous tanks and artillery pieces, and ample ammunition to use all this firepower. But then again, the Allies enjoyed these advantages at the Battle of the Bulge and in Korea, and still suffered heavy losses.

So would Operation Downfall have cost a million American casualties, plus a horrific number of Japanese military and civilian dead? That toll was not guaranteed, but it appears quite possible.

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The problem for Harry Truman and his generals was never going to be outright defeat of an invasion, but rather how long and costly the victory. The U.S. had suffered less during the war than other combatants (the advantage of fighting on someone else's soil). Yet by 1945, America was tired of the casualty lists, the rationing, the relentless wartime factory shifts. With the prospect of another year or two of war, there would have been pressure to use the handful of new atomic bombs -- out of frustration as much as military necessity -- and even to use poison gas to subdue the Japanese.

Perhaps a greater man than Truman would have balked at unleashing the monstrous genie of atomic warfare. Yet after six years of the most terrible war in history, greatness was in short supply across the globe, replaced by a desire just to get the slaughter and misery over with and bring the boys home.

The decision to drop the A-bomb may or may not have been the best decision. But it almost certainly was an inevitable one.

Michael Peck is a contributing writer for the National Interest. He can be found on Twitter and Facebook.

Read full article
Under cross examination at the tax evasion and bank fraud trial of his ex-boss Paul Manafort, Gates struggled to give clear answers

Rick Gates frequently used the phrases Its possible and I dont recall as Downing challenged him about inconsistencies in testimony he gave to the special counsels office. Photograph: Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images

A former campaign aide to Donald Trump lived a secret life including an extramarital affair in London, a court heard on Tuesday.

Rick Gates, under cross examination at the tax evasion and bank fraud trial of his former boss Paul Manafort, admitted that he had another relationship involving first-class flights and luxury hotels, but denied these were funded with money embezzled from Manafort.

Manafort, a former Trump campaign chairman, has pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of bank and tax fraud and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts. His defence team is seeking to pin the blame on Gates, who they say was responsible for day-to-day operations of the business.

In a dramatic moment before the jury, Manaforts defence counsel, Kevin Downing, put it to the governments star witness: Theres another life, right, the other Rick Gates? The secret Rick Gates?

Gates, who is 46 and married, admitted: There was a period in my life, about 10 years ago, when I had a relationship, yes.

With a nod to linguistic differences for what Americans refer to as an apartment, Downing pressed: As part of your secret life did you maintain a flat  is that what they call it?  in London?

Gates acknowledged that he did for two months and that he took first class flights and stayed in fancy hotels around Europe, but said the money came from bonuses rather than illicit gains. I had a period of time when I had another relationship, he added.

As well as being a senior aide on Trumps election campaign, Gates served as the deputy chairman of the US presidents inaugural committee. On Tuesday, he admitted it was possible he had sought to cheat the committee with false expenses claims.

Did you submit personal expenses to the inaugural committee for reimbursement? Downing asked.

Gates answered: I dont recall. Its possible.

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Gates appeared nervous on the witness stand at the court in Alexandria, Virginia, blinking frequently, his throat apparently dry as he spoke. He frequently used the phrases Its possible and I dont recall as Downing challenged him about inconsistencies in testimony he gave to the special counsels office.

When did you start providing false and misleading information to the special counsels office? the defence counsel asked bluntly.

Gates struggled so badly to give a straight answer that eventually Judge T S Ellis III was forced to intervene. Did you provide false information or did you have a bad memory? he asked.

Gates finally admitted that he had provided false information prior to striking a plea agreement. I did, to one count, your honour, he said.

He has already admitted embezzling some funds from Manafort. Downing pressed him on the specifics of their business relationship: which payments to Gates were authorised and which were not. Regarding a trading company Manafort had started with a partner in 2011, he asked with deep scepticism: Youre asking the jury to believe Mr Manafort authorised another $250,000 as a bonus?

Downing wondered aloud why Gates had shown perfect recollection during examination by the government but was now much less precise under cross-examination by Manaforts defence. He challenged the witness: Have they [the special counsels office] confronted you with so many lies you cant remember any of it?

Gates replied: No.

Gates testified that he stole from Manafort because he was living beyond his means. Downing asked: Was it for your secret life?

The witness replied defensively: Its not a secret life. It went to an account my wife knew about.

Though he has at times seemed evasive under cross-examination, Gates insisted that he now acknowledges his mistake and is taking responsibility for it, whereas Manafort is not.

But Downing challenged again: After all the lies youve told and fraud youve committed, you expect this jury to believe you?

Gates retorted: Yes.

Earlier on Tuesday, the prosecution had continued to question Gates, who described how millions of dollars were allegedly funneled from entities controlled by Ukrainian businessmen into Manaforts shell companies in Cyprus.

Although the allegations of collusion between Donald Trump and Russia are not at issue in this trial, any significant blows to the governments case are likely to be seized on by the presidents defenders, including conservative media, to support his contention that Muellers investigation is a rigged witch-hunt.

Gates pleaded guilty in February and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors under a deal that could lead to a reduced sentence. On Monday, he testified that he helped Manafort file false tax returns and hide his foreign bank accounts. He was aware that Manafort was acting as an unregistered foreign agent in lobbying for Ukraine, he said.

On Tuesday, the court was shown a series of emails, contracts and what prosecutor Greg Andres referred to as fake invoices, in which Gates altered the template to show the name of a shell company instead of Manaforts. This was a way to decrease Manaforts taxable income, added Gates, who did not report the money to Manaforts bookkeeper or accountants.

Manaforts political work included advising Viktor Yanukovych on policy after he won the Ukrainian presidency, Gates said. Mr Manafort worked with the local political officials and helped implement policy initiatives based on the campaign promises.

For this Manafort was paid $4m a year, in quarterly payments of $1m, Gates recalled, though at some point the currency switched from US dollars to Euros. His consultancy work also included Engage Ukraine, an effort to help Ukraine join the European Union.

Government lawyers have previously referred to Yanukovych as Manaforts golden goose. After Yanukovych lost power in 2014, I would say it decreased the income stream, Gates, wearing a blue suit, told the court matter-of-factly.

He added Manafort worked for a time for the Opposition Bloc, the party that replaced Yanukovychs Party of Regions, but it was out of power and so income streams were more difficult to come by.

By July 2015, the court heard, Manafort was struggling financially. Andres asked: Was he having trouble paying his bills? Gates replied: He was.

Gates said he and Manafort turned to a Cypriot lawyer, whom he referred to in court as Dr K, who set up bank accounts and shell companies on Manaforts behalf and handled everything.

When an individual sets up an entity in Cyprus, Gates explained, their name does not appear on any of the paperwork. He said of Manafort: I believe he understood his name would not be represented, nor would mine.

As Manafort came under pressure to pay his bills, he was forced to seek loans, the court heard. Gates said he was responsible for collecting all relevant documents for the loan applications.

Andres asked him: Did you provide false information to the banks?

Without hesitating, Gates replied: Yes.

Andres followed up: Did Mr Manafort know?

Again the reply came: Yes.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP)  The governments star witness in the financial fraud trial of Paul Manafort testified Monday that he embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from the former Trump campaign chairman  and told jurors he and Manafort committed crimes together.

Rick Gates has been regarded as a crucial witness for the government ever since he pleaded guilty this year to two felony charges and agreed to cooperate in special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into possible ties between Russia and the Trump campaign.

In the beginning of a hugely anticipated courtroom showdown, Gates told jurors that he siphoned off the money without Manaforts knowledge by filing false expense reports. He also admitted to concealing millions of dollars in foreign bank accounts on Manaforts behalf and to falsifying loan applications and other documents to help Manafort obtain more in bank loans.

Manaforts defense has sought to blame Gates, described by witnesses as his right-hand man, for any illegal conduct and accused him of embezzling millions of dollars from Manafort.

Gates, who also served in a senior role in Donald Trumps presidential campaign, is expected to face aggressive cross-examination once prosecutors are finished questioning him. Gates pleaded guilty to financial fraud and to lying to investigators as he negotiated a plea agreement, something defense lawyers will no doubt seize on to try to undercut his credibility.

He is awaiting sentencing and his ability to secure leniency from the government depends on him being cooperative and forthcoming with the jury.

The criminal case has nothing to do with either mans work for the Trump campaign and theres been no discussion during the trial about whether the Trump campaign coordinated with Russia  the central question Muellers team has tried to answer. But Trump has shown interest in the proceedings, tweeting support for Manafort and suggesting that he had been treated worse than gangster Al Capone.

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The trial opened last week with a display of Manaforts opulent lifestyle, then progressed into testimony about what prosecutors say were years of financial deception. In calling Gates, the government will present jurors with the firsthand account of a co-conspirator expected to say Manafort was knee-deep in an alleged scheme to hide millions of dollars from the IRS and defraud several banks.

During the questioning, U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III will be both referee and wild card. He has played those roles throughout the trial, repeatedly scolding prosecutors to rein in their depictions of Manaforts lavish lifestyle and demanding that they move it along. It is not a crime, he has said several times, to be rich and to spend ostentatiously.

Nonetheless, jurors were told of more than $900,000 in expensive suits, a $15,000 ostrich jacket and lavish properties replete with expensive audio and video systems, a tennis court encircled by hundreds of flowers and, as one witness put it, one of the bigger ponds in the Hamptons.

One by one, a retired carpenter, a natty clothier and a high-end landscaper detailed how Manafort paid them in international wire transfers from offshore companies.

Prosecutors say Manafort used those companies to stash millions of dollars from his Ukrainian consulting work, proceeds he omitted year-after-year from his income tax returns. Later, they say, when that income dwindled, Manafort launched a different scheme, shoring up his struggling finances by using doctored documents to obtain millions more in bank loans.

On Friday, a tax preparer named Cindy Laporta admitted that she helped disguise $900,000 in foreign income as a loan in order to reduce Manaforts tax burden. Laporta, who testified under an immunity deal with the government, acknowledged that she agreed under pressure from Gates to alter a tax document for one of Manaforts businesses.

Under cross examination, she said at the time she believed Manafort was directing Gates actions and knew what was going on.

All told, prosecutors allege that Manafort failed to report a significant percentage of the more than $60 million they say he received from Ukrainian oligarchs. They sought to show jurors how that money flowed from more than a dozen shell companies used to stash the income in Cyprus.

Though the names of those companies appeared on wire transfers and at times on his bookkeepers ledger, both Manaforts accountants and his bookkeeper say they never knew that the companies  and corresponding offshore bank accounts  were controlled by Manafort.

When they appeared, the bookkeeper and accountants said, they thought the companies were clients or, in some cases, lenders.

But defense lawyers are trying to convince the jury that Manafort was consumed by his consulting business and left the particulars of his finances to professionals and, in particular, to Gates.

___

Associated Press writers Eric Tucker and Stephen Braun contributed to this report.
Paul Pogba seemingly has a complicated relationship with Jose Mourinho and Manchester United. (Getty)

For weeks, the 2018 summer transfer window had gone relatively dormant. Then, out of nowhere on Monday night, the rumor mill exploded with multiple reports concerning Manchester Uniteds Paul Pogba.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Barcelona had bid $57.8 million plus Yerry Mina and Andre Gomes.

According to Sky Sports, Barcas interest is legitimate.

And according to ESPN, Pogba, unsettled by recent comments from manager Jose Mourinho, would consider either a move to Barcelona or a return to Juventus if given the option.

United, however, reportedly rejected the Barcelona bid, and will surely knock back any others. The rumblings will almost certainly come to nothing.

That doesnt mean Pogba isnt unsettled. It doesnt mean Barcelonas interest isnt real. But United has no reason to sell.

Why is Pogba unsettled?

Pogbas relationship with Mourinho has seemed strained for a while now. They argued on the touchline during a game last season. Days later, Mourinho benched Pogba, the low point of a frustrating season for the Frenchman.

Then, after Pogba  often misused by Mourinho at United  showed his true quality in leading France to a World Cup title, the manager essentially pinned blame for the up-and-down season on Pogba. I dont think its about us getting the best out of him, Mourinho told ESPN. Its about him giving the best he has to give.

Pogba has every right to be rankled. He, for the most part, is in the right here. Mourinho, for the most part, is in the wrong here (and elsewhere).

But that doesnt mean Pogba is going anywhere.

Why Manchester United surely wont sell Pogba

First of all, Pogba is Uniteds best player. Hes an on-field and off-field icon. Even if his performance didnt meet lofty expectations last year, he was and is a vital cog in Uniteds midfield. He should be even better in his third season (back) at the club. He has three years left on his contract. Hes tremendously valuable.

Plus, the Premier League transfer window closes in less than three days. United, if it were to sell, would have very little time, if any, to find a replacement. And theyd absolutely need a replacement for such a multi-talented, talismanic player.

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Oh, and by the way: Juventus definitely doesnt have the money to meet Uniteds likely astronomical asking price. Barcelona probably doesnt either  which in part explains why the reported bid was an insufficient player-plus-cash proposal.

So what is going on here?

Mino Raiola is going on. Thats what. The infamous superagent was reportedly in England Monday to push for a move. Hes infamous for doing just that  for persuading players to search for new clubs, and therefore transfers, which invariably come with hefty agent fees, which go to Raiola. He was an influential player in the Alexis Sanchez deal. And hes undoubtedly an influential player here. In fact, part of his offensive is likely leaking to media  perhaps directly, perhaps indirectly  that Pogba is unhappy at United.

Per ESPN, though, Pogba wont agitate for a move. Mourinho will almost certainly leave Man United before Pogba does. Maybe then hell fulfill the upper echelon of his potential. That possibility, in a nutshell, is why United wont sell.

      

Henry Bushnell covers global soccer for Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Question? Comment? Email him at henrydbushnell@gmail.com, or follow him on Twitter @HenryBushnell, and on Facebook.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. military is prohibiting its deployed personnel from using geolocation features on smartphones, fitness trackers and other devices because they could create security risks by revealing their location, the Pentagon said on Monday.

The decision follows concerns raised in January when an Australian researcher's analysis of data posted by Strava, a fitness tracking app, on activities of its users revealed locations of American forces in Syria and Iraq.

The Pentagon made public a memo issued on Friday which said the geolocation capabilities presented a "significant risk."

"These geolocation capabilities can expose personal information, locations, routines, and numbers of Department personnel, and potentially create unintended security consequences and increased risk to the joint force and mission," it said.

The memo said Defense Department personnel were prohibited from using "geolocation features and functionality on government and non-government-issued devices, applications, and services while in locations designated as operational areas."

The ban takes effect immediately, it said.

Strava posted heat maps showing movements of people exercising while wearing fitness tracker devices and publicly sharing the time and location of their workouts via the app.

Outlines of U.S. outposts in Syria and Iraq could be seen in the maps because many U.S. military personnel used fitness tracking devices, while few local people own them, according to media reports.

(Reporting by Mohammad Zargham; Editing by Chris Reese)
Counting dollars and cents wont make you any friends, according to a new study.

A paper published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology examined how pettiness  being intentionally attentive to trivial details  affects relationships and the way people perceive one another. The researchers repeatedly found that petty behaviors made people seem less likable, even when the actions objectively benefitted others.

Being precise isnt always a good thing for the quality of relationships, says study co-author Tami Kim, an assistant professor of marketing at the University of Virginias Darden School of Business. Sometimes, leaving a little room for error might be a good idea.

In one experiment, people were shown two transaction histories from the payment app Venmo. In one, a person paid back acquaintances in round amounts ($10, $35 and $20), while another person paid $9.99, $34.95 and $20.06. When asked which person theyd rather be friends with, the vast majority of study participants picked the person who paid round amounts. This suggests that being petty  in this case, by accounting for every last cent  is considered a negative quality, the authors say.

Apps like Venmo make this sort of pettiness easier to stumble into. Before Venmo, people may have had other ways that they relied on to settle the bill: things like, Oh yeah, Ill get you next time,' Kim says. The rise of digital platforms like Venmo and Paypal are encouraging precision in the way that people exchange resources.

The researchers even found that generous pettiness, both in terms of money and time, is unconsidered unattractive.

In another experiment, single people were shown fake dating profiles that included a response to a question about how long that person would help a friend move furniture. A third of the profiles indicated that theyd help for exactly an hour and 56 minutes (from 1 p.m. to 2:56 p.m.); a third said theyd help for two hours (from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.); and a third said theyd help for two hours and four minutes (from 1 p.m. to 3:04 p.m.). People were most willing to date the person who offered the middle option, even though the third person was technically more generous with his or her time  again, suggesting that being too exacting is a turnoff.

These results dont only apply to potential friends and dates, Kim says. In another survey included in the study, people in relationships were asked questions about their partners pettiness and their relationship satisfaction. Researchers found a correlation between reported partner pettiness and unhappiness in a relationship, Kim says.

The downfall of pettiness can happen across many types of relationships, even amongst people who have been together for a long time, she says. Pay attention to the ways even the simplest behavior can be interpreted.
The Manning family has a new member after a puppy was rescued from an abusive existence at a Mississippi fair. (AP)

If anthem controversy and confusing helmet rules are sapping your enthusiasm for NFL football, heres a heartwarming story from one of the games beloved figures.

Peyton Mannings family has adopted a puppy rescued from a abusive Mississippi carnival worker.

The story, told in detail by Colts.com, started with animal-rescue worker Elizabeth Pippa Jackson attending last weeks Neshoba County Fair near her home in Philadelphia, Mississippi.

Girl reportedly bought puppy from carnival worker for $100

Jackson told Colts.com that she spotted a girl carrying a sickly puppy around the carnival. When she inquired, the girl told her that she had bought the flea-ridden puppy for $100 from a carnival worker who was keeping it in a garbage bag.

The girl told Jackson that her grandmother wouldnt let her keep the dog when Jackson offered to take the puppy in.

She turned over the puppy to me and it still had fleas on it, Jackson told Colts.com. It took me four more baths to get all the fleas off the poor baby. The puppy was getting kind of weak and limp and it was very dehydrated.

Peyton Mannings Mississippi neighbors fostered abused puppy

Jacksons cousin, Carolyn Yates Voyles, fostered the puppy. Voyles also happens to be a neighbor of the Mannings, who live in Denver, but have a cabin in Mississippi that they frequent.

Jackson said that Mannings wife Ashley spotted their daughter Mosley playing with the puppy while visiting with Voyles sons and asked if they could adopt it.

And so the Mannings did, through the Animal Rescue Fund of Mississippi.

The ARSF documented the successful rescue with a photo of Peyton and some children with the puppy.

She is now a Manning and will live life large with this superstar family, the post reads. Adopted pets are the best!

More from Yahoo Sports:

 NASCAR CEO arrested for driving drunk

 LeBron Jr. likely to play at Santa Monica private school

 Packers LB who beat the odds finds birth parents

 13 UNC players suspended for selling sneakers





Jason Owens is a writer for Yahoo Sports. Follow him on Twitter.
By Neil Jerome Morales MANILA (Reuters) - Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte will cancel Landing International Development Ltd's $1.5 billion integrated casino project in the capital, his spokesman said minutes after the Hong Kong-listed firm broke ground on Tuesday. Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said the lease contract that Landing signed with a state-owned foundation in March has significantly put the government at a disadvantage because the rental payment was "unconscionable". "Sorry to burst your bubble, people, but the president said that is grossly disadvantageous to the government," Roque told a media briefing, a few minutes after Landing broke ground for the fifth casino project at the 100-hectare Entertainment City strip located south of the capital Manila. This is the second casino project under fire from Duterte's government. In April, it shelved a plan by Macau's Galaxy Entertainment Group to build a $500 million integrated casino-resort on the holiday island of Boracay, just a month after the gaming regulator approved the project. The government cited environmental concerns for the move. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp, a government-owned and controlled firm under the Office of the President, granted Landing the license in July to build the casino. The integrated resort project is "still pushing through and its lease contract with Nayong Pilipino Foundation is still valid and effective," Landing said in a statement. "Unless the lease contract is canceled or nullified on solid legal grounds by the courts, Landing has reason to believe that it is a valid leaseholder and can legally proceed with its project," it added. The project, which will include hotels, a convention center, water parks and gambling areas composed of 155 tables and 239 slot machines and electronic table games, was slated to start commercial operations in 2022. Landing's shares closed up 3.6 percent on Tuesday, outpacing the broader index that rose 1.5 percent. (Reporting by Neil Jerome Morales; Editing by Himani Sarkar and Muralikumar Anantharaman)
Scenes of devastation Houses in North Lombok were utterly devastated following the quake (AP)

Rescuers are still struggling to reach survivors of the deadly Indonesian earthquake that has killed at least 91 people.

The Indonesian tourist island of Lombok has been hit by its second deadly earthquake in a week, that has flattened houses and toppled bridges.

National Disaster Mitigation Agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho told a news conference that damage was massive in northern Lombok.

In several districts, more than half of homes were destroyed or severely damaged.

Some areas still had not been reached, with rescuers battling against collapsed bridges, electricity blackouts and damaged roads blocked with debris.

Thousands of homes and buildings were damaged and 20,000 people are in temporary shelters.

The quake, measured at magnitude 7.0 by Indonesian authorities and a still-powerful 6.9 by the U.S. Geological Survey, struck early on Sunday evening at a fairly shallow depth of six miles in the northern part of Lombok.
American pop star Pink has been forced to cancel several Sydney shows on her Australia tour after being hospitalised with a virus and dehydration.

The singer of 'Just Give Me a Reason' and 'Get the Party Started' cancelled a performance on Friday due to illness but battled through a Saturday show before her trip to the emergency room the next day.

"Pink was admitted to hospital in Sydney on Sunday night, suffering from dehydration. She was treated and discharged. She was readmitted to hospital (Monday) and diagnosed with a gastric virus," her promoter Live Nation said.

"Pink will remain in hospital overnight, continuing her treatment and recovery."

The statement gave no indication of when the singer would return to the stage.

Monday and Tuesday concerts were "postponed" but tickets for the next concert slated for Thursday are still on sale, according to the Live Nation website.

While some fans were disappointed, most sent their well-wishes.

"Get well soon Miss Pink! I have tickets for Sunday's concert and want you to know we'll totally understand if it's postponed -- you've got to look after yourself!" one fan said to Pink's tour Facebook page.

The pop sensation took to social media on Friday to defend that night's cancellation after she was snapped by photographers relaxing on an Australian beach with her family.

"I scheduled this tour meticulously, trying to do what was best for my children, while also putting on the best and most physically demanding and beautiful show of my life," she said in an Instagram post.

Pink said her children had also both been ill, and that "parasite paparazzi" had failed to capture her multiple visits to the doctor.

"You can think whatever you want, it's your right, but I have never taken advantage of any one in my entire life," she said, defending the Friday postponement while she was at the beach.

It prompted fellow star Justin Timberlake to come to her defence.

"I'm here to tell you that you won't find a harder working, more authentically talented, and more thankful for her place on that stage and her fans than that woman," he said on Instagram.
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SANTIAGO, Chile (AP)  Pope Francis has praised Chilean bishops for reflecting on their failure to listen to victims of clerical sex abuse.

The pontiff said in a letter to the Chilean church's Episcopal Conference that he is "impressed by the reflection, discernment and decisions" taken by bishops when they met last week.

"May the Lord reward you abundantly for this communal and pastoral effort," the pope said in the letter, which is dated Aug. 5. "The decisions (of the bishops) are realistic and concrete. I'm sure that they will decidedly help on this process."

Earlier this year, Francis publicly denounced a "culture of abuse and cover-up" in Chile's Catholic Church. He also said he was ashamed that neither he nor Chilean church leaders truly ever listened to victims as Chile's abuse scandal spread.

In May, 31 bishops offered their resignation to the pope. So far Francis has accepted the resignations of five.

Chilean prosecutors also recently summoned the archbishop of Santiago, Cardinal Ricardo Ezzati, to appear in court and testify about his role in the alleged cover-up of years of abuse.

There are nearly 50 ongoing investigations into alleged sex abuse including about 100 victims, according to local records. The investigations include reports of abuse by bishops, clerics and lay workers.

Francis has admitted he made "grave errors" in judgment in Chile's sex abuse scandal and met with some of the victims in the Vatican to beg their forgiveness.

Among the measures taken to repair the damage, the Chilean Episcopal Conference has begun providing evidence to prosecutors investigating abuse. It is also publishing the names of sanctioned priests on its website, which was done in previous years but had been stopped without explanation.

A survey released Monday said 46 percent of Chileans consider themselves to be Catholic; 83 percent believe the church is neither honest nor transparent, and 96 percent feel the institution covers up or protects priests accused of committing sex abuse. The survey by pollster Cadem included 700 people and had a margin of error of four percentage points.

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In recent months, Pope Francis had sent letters criticizing Chilean bishops. But his latest letter shocked victims.

"This letter has become a true praise to the inoperative and the crimes committed by the bishops of Chile," said Juan Carlos Claret, spokesman for a group of laypeople in the southern city of Osorno, where a bishop at the heart of the scandal resigned earlier this year.

"We don't understand how the pope values measures that have been presented to us as novelty ... these are old measures and therefore highly insufficient when it comes to combatting negligence and abuse," Claret said.
By Kanupriya Kapoor

PEMENANG, Indonesia (Reuters) - Rescuers used diggers and heavy machinery to clear debris and search for survivors on Monday after a magnitude 6.9 earthquake killed at least 98 people on Indonesia's resort island of Lombok, prompting a tourist exodus.

The island was further rattled by a magnitude 5.2 earthquake on Monday evening. Valentin Valla, a French tourist in the town of Mataram said the quake woke up tourists who ran out of their hotel, but there was no apparent damage.

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) said it expected the death toll to rise once the rubble of more than 13,000 houses was cleared away after two powerful quakes in a week.

Power and communications were severed in some areas, with landslides and a collapsed bridge blocking access to areas around the epicentre in the north.

The military said it would send a ship with medical aid, supplies and logistics support.

Indonesia sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire and is regularly hit by earthquakes. In 2004, the Indian Ocean tsunami killed 226,000 people in 13 countries, including more than 120,000 in Indonesia.

Officials said more than 2,000 people had been evacuated from the three Gili islands off the northwest coast of Lombok, where fears of another tsunami spread.

Michelle Thompson, an American holidaying on one of the Gilis, described a scramble to get on boats leaving for the main island during which her husband was injured.

"People were just throwing their suitcases on board and I had to struggle to get my husband on, because he was bleeding," she said.

BNPB spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said emergency units in its hospitals were overflowing and some patients were being treated in parking lots.

The main hospital in the town of Tanjung in the north was severely damaged, so staff set up about 30 beds in the shade of trees and in a tent on a field to tend to the injured.

A boy with a heavily bandaged leg wailed in pain, an elderly man wore a splint improvised from strips of cardboard on a broken arm, and some hurt by falling debris still had dried blood on their faces.

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Earthquake in Indonesia img - https://tmsnrt.rs/2vmA8oJ

BABY BORN

The Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics (BMKG) said more than 120 aftershocks were recorded after Sunday evening's quake.

Lombok had already been hit on July 29 by a 6.4 magnitude quake that killed 17 people and briefly stranded several hundred trekkers on the slopes of a volcano.

At magnitude 6.9, Sunday's quake released more than five times the energy of the earlier one, the United States Geological Survey website said.

The tremor was powerful enough to be felt on the neighbouring island of Bali where, BNPB said, two people died.

Despite it being a popular tourist destination, no foreigners were recorded among the dead, BNPB spokesman Nugroho told a news conference. Some 236 people were injured and more than 20,000 displaced, he said.

"We have yet to ask for help from the international(community). But if there's any friendly country who wants to offer help, please do," Nugroho said.

British-based charity Oxfam said it was providing clean drinking water and tarpaulin shelter sheets to 5,000 people and planned to intensify aid delivery.

The United Nations has offered to support rescue and relief efforts if required.

The Indonesian Red Cross said on Twitter it had helped a woman give birth at a makeshift health care station after the quake. One of the names she gave the baby boy was "Gempa", which means earthquake.

Among those displaced were residents of a northern village called Mentigi, who fled to nearby hills. Blue tarpaulins dotted the landscape as people prepared to spend the nights outdoors because of aftershocks or because their homes were destroyed.

"We are getting some aid from volunteers, but we don't have proper tents yet," said a 50-year-old villager sheltering with his wife and children, who gave his name only as Marhun.

Sengiggi, a seaside tourist strip on Lombok, looked abandoned. Amid collapsed homes, most hotels seemed to have shut and beaches were deserted. The few restaurants left open were rationing food.

Long lines formed at the airport of Lombok's main town, Mataram, as foreign visitors cut their holidays short. BNPB said 18 extra flights had been added for leaving tourists.

"I was at the rooftop of my hotel and the building started swaying very hard ... I could not stand up," said Gino Poggiali, a 43-year-old Frenchman, who was with his wife and two children at the airport.

His wife Maude, 44, said the family was on Bali for the first quake and Lombok for the second.

"This is it for me in Indonesia. Next time we will stay in France, or somewhere close," she said.

Dutch tourist Marc Ganbuwalba injured his knee in a stampede of diners from a restaurant after the quake.

"We are cutting short our holiday because I can't walk and we're just not in the mood anymore," said the 26-year-old, sitting on a trolley at the airport with his leg bandaged.

(Additional reporting by Fransiska Nangoy, Gayatri Suroyo, Fanny Potkin, Agustinus Beo da Costa, Bernadette Christina Munthe, Tabita Diela, Cindy Silviana and Jessica Damiana in JAKARTA, Jamie Freed and Jack Kim in SINGAPORE, and Colin Packham in SYDNEY; Michelle Nichols in NEW YORK, Writing by John Chalmers; Editing by Alison Williams and Robin Pomeroy)
Mexico City (AFP) - In the middle of the street, corpses riddled with bullets. Underground, thousands of bodies heaped in clandestine graves. And in the mountains, drug gangs locked in armed conflict with the military.

These grim scenes have increasingly become the norm in Mexico, a country gripped by violence stemming from its war on drugs which since 2006 has seen more than 200,000 murders and 30,000 people gone missing.

So despite his bold promise of a "Mexico in Peace," Enrique Pena Nieto will pass to leftist Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador this year a country with record homicide rates, disappearances and complaints against security forces over alleged extrajudicial executions and forced disappearances.

And battles with drug traffickers remain incessant: corpses are frequently found shot, dismembered, decapitated, hung from bridges, stashed in garbage bags, exposed on the streets or dumped in clandestine graves in states country-wide, even those that were considered safe a few years ago.

Mexico closed 2017 with 28,711 homicides, the highest official figure since the nation began such record-keeping in 1997.

This year looks even bleaker: the first half saw 15,973 murders, well over the 13,503 in the same period a year earlier.

That official number does not detail how many of these homicides are linked to organized crime, but a report by the NGO Semaforo Delictivo indicates most are carried out by narcotraffickers.

- Countrywide insecurity -

Wielding heavy weapons imported illegally from the United States, cartels fight among themselves to seize lands for the cultivation and transfer of drugs, whose primary destination is the United States.

AFP photographers recently documented insecurity in cities like touristy Acapulco, the US-Mexico border at Tijuana, cosmopolitan Mexico City, well-known Guadalajara and the emblematic Culiacan -- the capital of Sinaloa, and the birthplace of Mexico's top drug traffickers.

All of these places host frequent joint operations of military and police, as well as forensic experts donning special white suits at crime scenes taped off in yellow.

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Residents of Guadalajara, Mexico's second city, were shocked this weekend with the discovery of at least ten bodies in a clandestine grave inside a house.

And in Acapulco, formerly a favorite of the jet-set before becoming one of the country's most dangerous cities, a police commander was killed last month, his colleague left wounded on the street.

The central state of Guanajuato -- formerly home to much of the export-oriented manufacturing sector as well as many tourist destinations -- has become the region with the most murders by drug traffickers, with 1,241 cases in the first half of 2018, according to Semaforo Delictivo.

And the morgues? Overflowing.
(WASHINGTON)  The first set of U.S. sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early Tuesday under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, targeting financial transactions that involve U.S. dollars, Irans automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

More U.S sanctions targeting Irans oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

In an early-morning tweet, Trump said the re-imposition of sanctions mean, Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States.

I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!

The stiff economic sanctions ratchet up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after Trump pulled the U.S. out of the international accord limiting Irans nuclear activities.

The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level. Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 7, 2018

Trump declared the landmark 2015 agreement had been horrible, leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

Iran accused the U.S. of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by the Obama administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest. European allies said they deeply regret the U.S. action.

As the sanctions loomed Monday, Trump said in a statement, We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

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Trump warned that those who dont wind down their economic ties to Iran risk severe consequences.

The Europeans didnt like any of it.

Despite Trumps claims, the accord is working and delivering on its goal of limiting Irans nuclear program, said a statement by European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

The ministers said the Iran deal is crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world, and the European Union issued a blocking statute Monday to protect European businesses from the impact of the sanctions.

A senior administration official, briefing reporters under ground rules requiring anonymity, said the United States is not particularly concerned by EU efforts to protect European firms from the sanctions.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran still can rely on China and Russia to keep its oil and banking sectors afloat. Speaking in a television interview, he also demanded compensation for decades of American intervention in the Islamic Republic.

Months of uncertainty surrounding the sanctions have already further hurt Irans economy. The countrys rial currency has tanked, and the downturn has sparked protests across the nation.

The Trump Administration wants the world to believe its concerned about the Iranian people, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a statement posted to Twitter. But, he said, the reimposed sanctions would endanger ordinary Iranians.

US hypocrisy knows no bounds, he said.

U.S. officials insisted the American government stands with the people of Iran and supports many of their complaints against their own government.

National security adviser John Bolton said Irans leadership is on very shaky ground, but he insisted economic pressure from the Trump administration is not an attempt at regime change.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said sanctions are an important pillar in U.S. policy toward Iran and will remain in place until the Iranian government radically changes course.

Theyve got to behave like a normal country. Thats the ask. Its pretty simple, said Pompeo, en route Sunday from a three-nation trip to Southeast Asia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a firm foe of the Iranian government, said the sanctions symbolize the determination to block Irans regional aggression as well as its continuous plans to arm itself with nuclear weapons.

He called on the countries of Europe to join the U.S., saying, The time has come to stop talking; the time has come to do.

The U.S has long designated Iran as the worlds foremost state sponsor of terrorism, Pompeo noted Sunday, adding that the Islamic Republic cannot expect to be treated as an equal in the international community until it halts such activities.

He said that theres no evidence today of a change in their behavior, and in the meantime were going to enforce the sanctions.

___

Associated Press writers Nasser Karimi in Tehran and Ian Deitch in Jerusalem contributed.
According to multiple reports there is a baby on the way for "Pretty Little Liars" actress Troian Bellisario and her husband, "Suits" star Patrick J. Adams. In July, "Entertainment Tonight" spoke with Adams about starting a family with his bride. "We talk about it all the time, obviously, and when the time is right, the time will be right," Adams said when asked about expanding their family. "You know, we're not going anywhere. Very much in love and excited for everything that comes next."
Four US states are held primary elections with a fifth having a special House vote. A number of the races were a test for Donald Trump and the amount of sway he holds with voters ahead of crucial midterm elections.

Michigan, Missouri Kansas and Washington had a mixture of governor and senate races, preparing the states for the November polls.

Voters in Ohio's 12th district, where Mr Trump personally stumped for Troy Balderson, were split nearly down the middle, though the GOP hopeful claimed victory in the race to succeed resigning Republican representative Pat Tiberi.

Republicans had scrambled to avoid an embarrassing defeat in a seat the party has held for decades. Mr Balderson faced Democrat Danny O'Connor in the last special congressional election before the midterms. A win for Democrats would have signalled further danger for Republicans in November.

Please allow a moment for the liveblog to load.

The GOP previously lost a similar race in Pennsylvania and saw one in Arizona get too close for comfort.

In the Republican race to pick a candidate for Kansas governor, Mr Trump has backed Kris Kobach, a conservative agitator for strict immigration and voter ID laws.

He is facing Kansas Governor Jeff Colyer, who raised more money than Kobach, received the endorsement of the National Rifle Association, brandished his anti-abortion credentials and has the backing of Kansas political legend Bob Dole.

While some White House advisers had reportedly asked the president to stay clear of the race, amid fears Mr Kobach would lose in the midterms, Mr Trump's tweet endorsement could tip the scales in a competitive race, as some other recent Trump endorsements have done. Mr Trump's tweet backing Georgia Republican governor hopeful Brian Kemp vaulted him to an easy primary runoff win two weeks ago. Trump also has recently given a boost to GOP primary candidates in Florida, South Carolina and Alabama.

Mr Trump also endorsed in two Michigan primaries: state Attorney General Bill Schuette in the gubernatorial contest and John James for Senate.

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For the Democrats, the battle between progressive candidates and the establishment will continue on Tuesday. Both Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a round progressive who surprisingly beat an establishment candidate earlier this summer, have endorsed Abdul El-Sayed, who is running for governor in Michigan, and Brent Welder, who is running in Kansas 3rd District. Mr El-Sayed has trailed the establishment-backed Gretchen Whitmer in polling, but progressives are pushing for an upset.

With many of the races too close to call, we will give you all the latest on the elections, with results expected to come in late this evening.

Additional reporting by Reuters and AP.
Beirut (AFP) - Pro-government Druze militiamen hanged a member of the Islamic State group in Syria's Sweida on Tuesday, a monitor said, just days after the jihadists executed a young hostage from the minority group.

IS abducted more than 30 Druze civilians -- women and their children -- from a remote village less than two weeks ago, during a brutal onslaught in the southern province.

The hostage situation and beheading has sparked outrage among the Druze, and on Tuesday a militia struck back.

"A member of IS was detained during an attack against a pro-regime position in the Sweida countryside," said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

During the assault, an IS suicide bomber killed four government loyalists but other militia members managed to detain a second jihadist fighter.

"Druze militiamen loyal to the regime executed the IS fighter in one of the public squares in Sweida city, by hanging," said Abdel Rahman.

Sweida 24, a local news outlet, said the IS member had been caught Tuesday morning in a desert area of the province.

Hundreds of people watched the execution, according to both the Observatory and Sweida 24.

Sweida province is the heartland of the country's Druze minority, which made up around three percent of Syria's pre-war population -- or around 700,000 people.

On July 25, IS waged a series of suicide bombings, shootings, and stabbings that left more than 250 people dead across the province, most of them civilians.

It later emerged the jihadists had also kidnapped more than 30 Druze women and their children during the attack.

While IS claimed responsibility for the violence, it has made no mention of the abductions on its usual channels.

But local sources say the group is using the hostages as a bargaining chip to pressure Syria's government to release jihadists in its custody.

A top Druze religious official told AFP the negotiations were taking place with Russian mediation, and in coordination with Syria's regime.
By Elaine Lies TOKYO (Reuters) - A Japanese medical school deliberately cut women's entrance test scores for at least a decade, an investigation panel said on Tuesday, calling it a "very serious" instance of discrimination, but school officials denied having known of the manipulations. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has made a priority of creating a society "where women can shine", but women in Japan still face an uphill battle in employment and face hurdles returning to work after childbirth, a factor behind a falling birthrate. The alterations were uncovered in an internal investigation of a graft accusation this spring regarding the entrance exam for Tokyo Medical University, sparking protests and anger. Lawyers investigating bribery accusations in the admission of the son of a senior education ministry official said they concluded that his score, and those of several other men, were boosted "unfairly" - by as much as 49 points, in one case. They also concluded that scores were manipulated to give men more points than women and thus hold down the number of women admitted, since school officials felt they were more likely to quit the profession after having children, or for other reasons. "This incident is really regrettable - by deceptive recruitment procedures, they sought to delude the test takers, their families, school officials and society as a whole," lawyer Kenji Nakai told a news conference. "Factors suggesting very serious discrimination against women was also part of it," added Nakai, one of the external lawyers the university hired to investigate the incident. The investigation showed that the scores of men, including those reappearing after failing once or twice, were raised, while those of all women, and men who had failed the test at least three times, were not. The lawyers said they did not know how many women had been affected, but it appeared that women's test scores had been affected going back at least a decade. At a news conference, senior school officials bowed and apologized, pledging to "sincerely" consider their response, such as possible compensation. However, they said they had been unaware of the manipulation. "Society is changing rapidly and we need to respond to that and any organization that fails to utilize women will grow weak," said Tetsuo Yukioka, the school's executive regent and chair of its diversity promotion panel. "I guess that thinking had not been absorbed." No immediate comment was available from the government or the education ministry official who figures in the case. Entrance exam discrimination against women was "absolutely unacceptable", Education Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters last week. Reports of the incident set off a furore in which women recounted their own experiences of discrimination on social media with the hashtag, "It's okay to be angry about sexism." Some referred to the potential costs exacted in a rapidly aging society. "I'm 29 and will probably never get married," said one poster. "Women are pitied if they don't, but Japanese women who are married and working and have kids end up sleeping less than anybody in the world. To now hear that even our skills are suppressed makes me shake with rage." Another said, "I ignored my parents, who said women don't belong in academia, and got into the best university in Japan. But in job interviews I'm told 'If you were a man, we'd hire you right away.' "My enemy wasn't my parents, but all society itself." (Reporting by Elaine Lies, additional reporting by Tim Kelly; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
By Hugh Bronstein and Nicolas Misculin BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Argentine prosecutors questioned a construction executive related to President Mauricio Macri on Monday as part of a sprawling investigation into bribe payments made to the former government, a person close to the case told Reuters. Angelo Calcaterra, the former head of construction company Iecsa and Macri's cousin, told prosecutors he was told by officials in former President Cristina Fernandez' administration to pay cash in exchange for public works contracts, said the source on condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing probe. "The pressure was strong," the person said. Calcaterra could not be reached for comment. Calcaterra is the latest executive to speak with prosecutors in the case since last Wednesday, when newspaper La Nacion published contents of notebooks kept by a driver in the former administration that detail how he transported bribe money from construction companies to government officials from 2005-2015. Journalist Diego Cabot wrote in La Nacion over the weekend that he was given the notebooks in January by Jorge Bacigalupo, an acquaintance of the driver, Oscar Centeno. In a video interview with Cabot posted on La Nacion's website, Bacigalupo said Centeno gave him the notebooks in September or October. Cabot wrote that he made copies of the notebooks and then gave them to prosecutors in April. La Nacion decided not to publish the story until law enforcement acted on the information, he added. Prosecutor Carlos Stornelli is probing what he calls the "criminal conspiracy to illegally raise money" outlined in the notebooks. "They hold an abundance of data and provide a kind of x-ray of the system," Stornelli told local radio. Stornelli's office declined to comment. More than a dozen former government officials and business executives have been arrested since Wednesday, according to local media reports. Executives for some of the companies named, including Electroingenieria SA and Albanesi SA, have taken leaves of absence, according to securities filings. On Monday Techint, one of the country's top conglomerates, said in a statement that it had answered questions from prosecutors and would continue cooperating after its offices were raided last week. It also promised an internal probe. Shares of its Ternium unit, which provides steel for construction projects, fell 5.8 percent to 14.75 ARS (54 cents) per share. Ratings agency Moody's said in a statement that the "corruption scandal is credit negative for Argentine corporations." It cited "bribery investigations that led to the arrest of senior Argentine business leaders." The scandal threatens to complicate a possible presidential campaign next year by Fernandez, who has been indicted in other graft cases but enjoys immunity from arrest as a senator. A spokesman for Fernandez declined to comment on the current case, and she has denied any wrongdoing in the past. (Reporting by Hugh Bronstein and Nicolas Misculin; Additional reporting and writing by Luc Cohen; Editing by David Gregorio and Richard Chang)
DENVER (AP)  A psychiatrist who spent hours talking with mass murderer James Holmes says that what led Holmes to open fire in a crowded Colorado movie theater was a one-of-a-kind vortex of his mental illness, his personality and his circumstances  and some other, unknown currents that will probably never be uncovered.

"A big part of it is, it's hidden in Holmes' mind, and he can't see it either," William H. Reid said in an interview with The Associated Press about his new book, "A Dark Night in Aurora: Inside James Holmes and the Colorado Mass Shootings."

Holmes killed 12 people and wounded 58 when he opened fire during a midnight showing of "The Dark Knight Rises," a Batman movie, in the Denver suburb of Aurora on July 20, 2012. Twelve other people were injured in the scramble to escape.

He was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole.

Reid was one of two court-appointed psychiatrists who evaluated Holmes' mental health before the trial. Reid spent a total of 24 hours interviewing Holmes in July and August 2014, two years after the massacre. Reid also reviewed 80,000 to 85,000 pages of documents provided by prosecutors, the defense and law enforcement.

In the book, Reid acknowledges that readers will want to know what led Holmes to commit mass murder, and he predicts they won't be happy with his conclusion.

"The answer  and this really is the answer, but it's not very satisfying  lies in an unimaginably detailed and complex confluence that we can't replicate because we can't see all of it," he writes.

In his interview with the AP, Reid listed the factors that can be seen:

 Holmes' mental illness, and the way it influenced his behavior.

 The way Holmes' personality shaped his awkward interactions with other people and influenced his view of the world.

 The ups and downs of Holmes' life as he struggled in neuroscience graduate school at the University of Colorado in Denver and broke up with his girlfriend.

Story continues

The other factors are unknown, Reid said, "because no one knows his entire social and genetic and biological life."

Reid said society will likely never have a comprehensive understanding of what led Holmes to commit murder.

"He's unique," Reid said. "The answers are not going to come, at least not in any of our lifetimes."

Reid's book is a chronology of Holmes' life, from his relatively uneventful childhood through the murders, the trial and Holmes' conviction and sentencing. Reid said he relied on the court records, including his videotaped interviews with Holmes, which were shown to jurors during the trial.

The book includes a handful of previously unknown facts, the most startling of which is that Holmes suggested to Reid in one of their videotaped interviews that he might kill again if given a chance.

Reid asked Holmes if jail guards should be worried about that, and Holmes replied, "Um, I'd say so, yeah."

That exchange wasn't shown to the jury because the defense said it could be prejudicial, and the judge agreed, Reid wrote. But Reid told the AP he doubted Holmes was a serious threat to other prisoners.

The book also offers a glimpse of the extraordinary steps that state District Judge Carlos Samour  now a Colorado Supreme Court justice  took to prevent pretrial leaks. Emails involving the case were encrypted, and some documents were delivered to Reid in person, instead of by mail or parcel service.

The book knocks down a half-dozen stories that circulated around the case. Among Reid's assertions: Holmes didn't identify with the Joker figure in the Batman movies, his breakup with his girlfriend alone didn't provoke the killings, and there's no evidence his prescribed use of Zoloft was a factor in the crime.

The book makes a point of absolving Holmes' parents. Reid's dedication names the 12 slain victims as well as "Holmes' parents, Arlene and Robert, who did nothing wrong."

"I looked really carefully at all the evidence that I had," Reid told the AP. "I just couldn't find anything wrong with their parenting."

Reid told the AP he thought "long and hard" about whether it was legal and ethical for him to write the book but concluded that his sources were publicly available and that he had no doctor-patient relationship with Holmes, so he had no obligation of confidentiality  his role was to evaluate Holmes' mental health, not treat him.

Reid Meloy, a forensic psychologist and a clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of California San Diego, agreed that Reid did not have a doctor-patient relationship with Holmes.

Meloy said Reid's book could provide mental health professionals and the public with a better understanding of Holmes' case. Meloy didn't work with Reid on this case but has collaborated with him on at least one other in the past.

Holmes pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, but Reid and the other court-appointed psychiatrist, Jeffrey L. Metzner, concluded he didn't meet Colorado's standard for insanity.

Reid and Metzner both said Holmes was mentally ill at the time of the killings  Metzner diagnosed schizoaffective disorder, a severe form of schizophrenia, and Reid found schizotypal personality, a related but less severe disorder. But both said that despite his illness, Holmes knew his elaborately planned ambush was illegal and morally wrong, and that he could still form criminal intent, all of which meant he was sane under state law.

The book ends with a plea to make mental health a part of everyday health care rather than focusing only on crisis intervention. But in the book and the interview, Reid said it's better to rely on good policing than psychiatry to prevent a repeat of the theater massacre, noting that mentally ill people are rarely violent.

"Figuring out James Holmes would probably not give us any reasonable predictive tools to say, 'OK, if we find all of these 4 million characteristics in someone else, we're going to put a brand on their forehead and watch them closely,'" he told the AP. "It's not feasible."

___

This story has been corrected to show the book's subtitle is "Inside James Holmes and the Colorado Mass Shootings," not "Inside James Holmes and the Colorado Theater Shootings."

___

Follow Dan Elliott at http://twitter.com/DanElliottAP. His work can be found at https://apnews.com/search/dan%20elliott
The 2018-19 Premier League season is upon us. Kickoff, believe it or not, is just days away. To get you set for the planets most enthralling 38-game soccer circuit, Yahoo Sports Premier League XI will delve into the 11 most compelling questions ahead of the coming campaign. Next up is Arsenal, which bid farewell to Arsene Wenger and is in its maiden voyage under new manager Unai Emery.

With the new Premier League season rapidly approaching, theres a nervous sort of excitement building around Arsenal, as the North London outfit prepares to embark on its first season since 1996 without Arsene Wenger in charge. Although the cautionary tale that was David Moyes appointment at Manchester United following Sir Alex Fergusons 26-year reign may give some Arsenal fans cause for concern.

So what should fans realistically expect in the Gunners first post-Wenger season?

The manager

Having won seven trophies in two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain, new manager Unai Emery has already enjoyed a measure of success at a top club. Critics may point to his failure to make headway in the Champions League with PSG, or to the fact that he conceded the Ligue 1 title to Monaco in his first season at the club.

But looking beyond his tenure at PSG, its the 46-year-olds time in Spanish soccer that should give Arsenal fans something to be hopeful about. Between 2013 and 2016, Emery won three consecutive Europa League titles with Sevilla. Prior to that, he achieved three consecutive third-place La Liga finishes with Valencia.

With Arsenal, fresh off an ownership shakeup, unwilling or incapable of splashing the kind of cash on players that the likes of Manchester City, Man United, and Chelsea regularly do, there was always a need for a post-Wenger appointment who would be capable of molding a less-talented group of players into a side thats greater than the sum of its parts. Emery seems to fit that bill.

But does he have the right pieces at his disposal to return Arsenal to title contention?

Story continues

The team

Unlike Chelsea, which for some unknown reason dragged the saga of replacing Antonio Conte with Maurizio Sarri on practically all summer, Arsenal moved swiftly to install Emery within weeks of the season ending. That means hes had time to embed his methodology onto the team and reports indicate his training has focused on areas Wenger often neglected, like how to play without the ball.

He also wasted little time in reinforcing the areas of the squad that Wenger seemed reluctant to. He brought in experienced Greek center back Sokratis Papastathopoulos from Borussia Dortmund to add some steel to Arsenals at-times soft center. Right back Stephan Lichtsteiner has also joined on a free from Juventus.

At 34, the veteran Swiss defender is a little longer in the tooth than the players Wenger wouldve been inclined to sign. But the seven-time Serie A winner arrives on the back of an impressive World Cup campaign in which he captained all three of Switzerlands Group Stage matches before yellow card accumulation ruled him out of the Round of 16 loss to Sweden.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery during the International Champions Cup match between Arsenal and Chelsea at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. (Getty Images)

The most exciting new addition to the squad is Uruguayan World Cup standout Lucas Torreira. The 22-year-old former Sampdoria man is unlikely to end Arsenals seemingly decades-long quest for another Patrick Vieira, but his ability to function as a combination defensive midfielder and deep-lying playmaker could restore stability to a midfield that had become wildly unpredictable in the late-Wenger era.

The other notable addition to the squad is goalkeeper Bernd Leno, who was signed from Bayer Leverkusen in June and could potentially usurp Petr Cech for the No. 1 spot.

Up at the other end of the park, Emery has no shortage of firepower to call upon in the likes of Alexander Lacazette, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Last season we saw glimpses of what could be if Aubameyang and Mkhitaryan are able to revive the successful partnership they enjoyed at Dortmund a couple seasons back.

Its a little less clear just how Lacazette fits in. Hes been effective in preseason when brought off the bench, as he often was in the latter half of last season. Emery has also experimented with pushing Aubameyang out wide to accommodate the French striker at center forward.

Of course, an overabundance of offensive talent is never a bad problem to have and Emerys experience at PSG will hopefully serve him well in managing the egos of his marquee attacking players.

And then theres Mesut Ozil.

After being made a scapegoat for all that went wrong with Die Mannschafts limp World Cup title defense, the mercurial midfield maestro kicked his post-Wenger Arsenal career off looking like a man with something to prove; netting the opening goal just 13 minutes into the Gunners 5-1 dismantling of PSG in the International Champions Cup.

The prospect of a motivated Ozil providing service for Aubameyang and Lacazette should rightfully quicken the pulse of any Arsenal fan. The question of whether Emery can get a tune out of the German playmaker could prove key to just how far Arsenal can go this season.

Ozil aside, a number of other question marks remain with the team: Laurent Koscielny and Sead Kolasinacs injuries, Aaron Ramseys unresolved contract, whether a bit more structure can reconcile the Granit Xhaka we see in an Arsenal jersey with the one we see playing for Switzerland, and even the rumored possibility of a surprise late move for Ousmane Dembele.

What should success look like?

When you start to add it all up, theres definitely potential there for Emerys team.

Potential for what is the question. The title? Probably not.

Thats likely to remain in the hands of Pep Guardiolas Man City unless Liverpool or Man United manage to wrest it away. But with Chelsea currently in the process of rediscovering its identity under Sarri and Tottenham risking stagnation by not making any new signings, the door is open for Emerys Arsenal to bring Wengers coveted fourth-place trophy, and Champions League soccer, back to the Emirates

The good news for Emery is that unlike Moyes, hes not taking over a title-winning side. No one is really expecting Arsenal to challenge for the Premier League in its first post-Wenger season. That relieves the Spaniard of the kind of pressure Moyes was faced with. But by the same token, few would expect Arsenal to finish lower than fifth or sixth either, which makes fourth place a reasonable target for the Gunners to shoot for.

Monday: What could derail Man Citys title defense?

Monday: Can Sarri revolutionize or stabilize Chelsea?

Monday: Whos getting relegated?

Tuesday: Who, if anybody, can break up the top six?

Tuesday: Is Liverpool closing on City?

Tuesday: What to expect at Arsenal post-Wenger?

Wednesday: Is a Mourinho flameout already underway?

Wednesday: Is Spurs trophy deadline approaching?

Wednesday: Wolves: Shady, brilliant, or both?

Thursday a.m.: Predictions

Thursday p.m.: Transfer window winners/losers
A gender-neutral bathroom at a coffee shop in Washington, D.C., on May 5, 2016. (Photo: Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images)

The internet continues to walk a fine line between a beautiful place to communicate and learn and a horrible hellscape that teaches you about things you do not need in your life.

Today, welcome to the hellscape: Youre going to learn about peegasms.

Everyone has experienced the uncomfortable moment of realizing they have to use the restroom and there arent any around. Maybe, in your youth, you were told the old wives tale that peeing on the side of the road causes sties, and you err on the side of caution. Either way, youve had to hold your pee when youve had to go.

Now, Reddit users are suggesting that the relief you feel when you finally do get to a toilet feels so good you may experience what some users are calling a peegasm.

yeah sex is nice but have you ever peed after like 20 minutes of needing to pee?  superficialtw!tterhoney (@RaineBernard) August 4, 2018

So my girlfriend recently told me if shes had to hold her pee in for a while, when she actually goes to pee, she often has orgasms that she feels all the way up her spine to her head. If she does reverse kegels while peeing, theyre even more likely to happen, a Reddit user wrote.

Yeah sex is cool but have you ever peed after drinking 4 water bottles?    (@yungdeadgoff) August 7, 2018

Although some chimed in with their own experience of a peegasm, other users suggested that it felt good  but not that good. One wrote, I call them the piss shivers because theyre not quite orgasmic in my opinion but close enough.

But is that pleasure worth the dangers of holding your urine for too long? Probably not.

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Charlotte Elder, MD, a gynecologist and spokesperson for the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, told Whimn that holding your urine in hopes of achieving a peegasm could result in bladder damage.

Bladders need to be treated with respect. Its important to go when you need to go, not when youre busting, she said. Bladder injuries can take years to recover from, and sometimes the damage is irreparable, she said.

Clare Morrison, MD, at MedExpress, told Cosmopolitan: Holding on to urine could lead to urinary infections and even kidney damage.

Why not try this instead?

There are more practical and more pleasurable ways to have an orgasm, Elder said. My advice is to try something a bit more old-fashioned.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

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A dead fetus was reportedly discovered by cleaning crews inside a toilet aboard an American Airlines plane at New York's LaGuardia Airport on Tuesday, according to WNBC.

American Airlines Flight 1942, which left Charlotte, North Carolina, at 8:56 p.m. on Monday night, arrived at the Queens, New York, hub at 10:44 p.m. The gruesome discovery wasn't made until early on Tuesday morning, when the out-of-service jet was parked inside an airport hangar, according to law enforcement officials.

An American Airlines spokesman confirmed that the incident is currently under investigation.

"As we continue to learn more about this tragic and sensitive situation, we are actively cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation," the airline's spokesman said in a statement. "Please contact law enforcement for additional information."

The airline also told WNBC that the incident has had "no major impact to our operation this morning."

LaGuardia Airport confirmed on Twitter that no additional delays are expected.

The out of service @americanair plane at Terminal B has been cleared. No further operational impacts are anticipated for fliers.  LaGuardia Airport. Wear a Face Covering. (@LGAairport) August 7, 2018

This is a developing story. Refresh the page for updates.
Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald will not report to camp on Tuesday, and isnt caving on his holdout while pursuing a better deal. (Getty Images)

Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald isnt caving on his holdout anytime soon.

Donald, who has been sitting out of training camp and skipped OTAs and mandatory minicamp while waiting for a new deal, will lose an accrued season toward free agency if he doesnt report to camp by Tuesday, which marks 30 days before the start of the regular season  meaning he would become a restricted free agent next year.

That fact, though, apparently isnt fazing the 27-year-old. According to ESPNs Adam Schefter, he still has no plans to rejoin the team on Tuesday or anytime soon.

Even though Aaron Donald would have to report to Rams camp by Tuesday to make sure this counts as an accrued season and he wouldnt be a restricted free agent next off-season, he has no plans to rejoin the team, per sources. He will not be there Tuesday, nor anytime soon.  Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 6, 2018

Donald  who was drafted in the first round of the 2014 NFL draft by the St. Louis Rams  is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and has been a cornerstone of the Rams defense. He was named the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2014 and the AP Defensive Player of the Year last season where he recorded 32 tackles and 11 sacks.

Donald is set to earn $6.9 million this year.

According to Rams coach Sean McVay, though, talks between Donald and the teams front office havent progressed much at all.

There really hasnt been much progress in terms of the dialogue since camp, McVay told USA Today on Saturday. I know that were very intentional about trying to get him here, love to have him. In the meantime, like weve said, really appreciative of the way that guys have worked, that are here, doing a good job of finding ways to get better.

More from Yahoo Sports:

 NFL HOF reportedly considering requiring inductees to show up

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Former MLB pitcher Esteban Loaiza is expected to plead guilty this week after being arrested earlier this year in San Diego for possession of more than 44 pounds of cocaine. (Getty Images)

Former MLB pitcher Esteban Loaiza is expected to plead guilty this week in a federal cocaine distribution case, according to ABC7 in Chicago.

Loaiza was arrested in February in San Diego with more than 20 kilos of cocaine, which translates to more than 44 pounds and is worth roughly $500,000. He initially pleaded not guilty to a charge of possession with intent to distribute, but has a Change of Plea hearing in Southern California U.S. District Court on Friday, according to ABC7.

If convicted, Loaiza would face a 10-year mandatory minimum sentence up to life in prison, according to ABC7. After spending several months in jail following his arrest, Loaiza posted bail in May and has been out since. Loaizas attorney and the spokesperson for the US Attorney in San Diego declined to comment.

Loaiza played for eight different teams in his MLB career from 1995-2008, most significantly with the Chicago White Sox, Texas Rangers, Toronto Blue Jays and Pittsburgh Pirates.

He was a starter in the 2003 All-Star game while playing for the White Sox, and finished second in the Cy Young Award voting that season, too. Loaiza, who was born in Tijuana, Mexico, is currently the second-winningest Mexican pitcher in MLB history.

More from Yahoo Sports:

 NASCAR CEO arrested for driving drunk

 LeBron Jr. likely to play at Santa Monica private school

 Packers LB who beat the odds finds birth parents

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Firefighters tackled a brush fire in Trabuco Canyon, California, on Monday, August 6.

These eyewitness videos show the fire that has been named the Holy fire by Cal Fire. Residents were evacuated from the community of Holy Jim after the fire burned more than 1,000 acres, the Orange County Fire Authority reported.

Firefighters were first alerted to the blaze at 1.30 pm, ABC 7 reported. Credit: @abhaya_kerianne via Storyful
When Rick Gates took the stand in Paul Manaforts Virginia trial Monday, he quickly showed the power Special Counsel Robert Muellers team can wield if they can get witnesses to flip against former friends and colleagues, a particular obsession of President Donald Trumps as the Russia investigation grinds on.

By Monday, the jury in Manaforts trial had heard from an FBI agent, high-end menswear salesmen, accountants and financial experts, among other witnesses, to testify about the tax and bank fraud that Trumps former campaign chairman had been charged with. But court watchers had been eagerly awaiting Gates, who both the prosecution and defense seem to be hoping will be at the center of their case.

Gates, who was also a senior Trump campaign official, was Manaforts righthand man for years. The defense signaled in opening arguments that theyll try to pin the tax and bank fraud crimes at issue in this case on him. Gates has already pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy against the U.S. and one count of making a false statement to investigators in the course of Muellers investigation.

Gatess appearance in court marked a dramatic moment in the probe: the first visible case of a witness flipping, or turning on friends or colleagues in a case. Trumps former adviser George Papadopoulos has reportedly been cooperating with Mueller, but the public hasnt learned what he may have divulged. Trump is obsessed with loyalty in his inner circle, famously even demanding it of former FBI Director James Comey.

His preoccupation with the idea that confidantes or associates might turn on him came to the foreground recently when he fed rumors that his longtime lawyer Michael Cohen might flip, tweeting in April that journalists are going out of their way to destroy Michael Cohen and his relationship with me in the hope that he will flip and that most people will flip if the Government lets them out of trouble, even if.it means lying or making up stories.

Story continues

The New York Times and a third rate reporter named Maggie Haberman, known as a Crooked H flunkie who I dont speak to and have nothing to do with, are going out of their way to destroy Michael Cohen and his relationship with me in the hope that he will flip. They use....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 21, 2018

....non-existent sources and a drunk/drugged up loser who hates Michael, a fine person with a wonderful family. Michael is a businessman for his own account/lawyer who I have always liked & respected. Most people will flip if the Government lets them out of trouble, even if....  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 21, 2018

....it means lying or making up stories. Sorry, I dont see Michael doing that despite the horrible Witch Hunt and the dishonest media!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 21, 2018

In early July, Trumps lawyer Rudy Giuliani also suggested Cohen might flip: If he believes its in his best interest to cooperate, God bless him, he should cooperate, Giuliani said at the time. Weeks later, when Cohen released damaging information about Trump, Giuliani abruptly changed his tune, saying Cohen doesnt have any credibility and hes lied all his life.

The government did not let Gates out of trouble for his cooperation, but prosecutors did agree to certain terms in a plea deal. Gates, who is facing five to 10 years in prison, testified Monday that as part of his plea deal he agreed to turn over evidence to the government and testify. In exchange, the government promised not to bring additional charges against him and drop a second indictment against him on tax and bank fraud charges.

The power for the prosecution of having a formerly close associate flip on a defendant immediately became clear when prosecutor Greg Andres started asking him questions.

Did you commit any crimes with Mr. Manafort? Andres asked.

Yes, Gates replied.

Gates, who typically sports a beard but appeared in court clean-shaven, said he had conspired with Manafort to underreport Manaforts income on his tax returns and hide overseas accounts. He was explicit at multiple points about Manaforts agency in the crimes, saying he lied to accountants at Mr. Manaforts request, that he told those accountants Manafort didnt control any foreign bank accounts (which the prosecution says he did) at Mr. Manaforts direction, and that Manafort directed him to categorize some income as loans in order to reduce his taxable income.

The importance of Gates appearance wasnt lost on the onlookers crammed into the uncomfortable wooden benches in the back of the courtroom. When journalists heard that Gates would be next to testify, many of them fled the room to get the news out. (There are no phones or computers allowed in the court.) So many people jumped up that it caused a commotion, and Judge T.S. Ellis threatened to have people excluded if in the future they didnt leave the court in a quiet, orderly way.

Ellis tried to hurry the prosecution along throughout the day, at one point scolding Andres as he asked Gates about Manaforts political work in Ukraine. I certainly hope you dont mean to offer a history of Ukrainian politics, Ellis snapped. Prosecutors still said they estimate having about three more hours of questions for Gates on Tuesday before cross examination can begin.

As Gates testified in a calm, dispassionate way about the crimes he says he and Manafort committed together (as well as crimes he says Manafort didnt know about, including embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from him), Manafort appeared to be looking directly at his former colleague. Gates studiously avoided Manaforts gaze and looked only at Andres, the judge or the jury.

At one point Gates, still without meeting Manaforts eye, testified that his former boss is probably one of the most politically brilliant strategists Ive ever worked with.

Even a flipped witness, it seems, can still have a nice word to say for his old boss.
BUCHAREST, Romania (AP)  A European Union official says Romania will receive 59 million euros ($68 million) to modernize shipping routes along the River Danube.

Corina Cretu, European Commissioner for Regional Policy, said in a Tuesday statement that the money from the EU's cohesion funds would unlock "the enormous potential of commercial river traffic," and boost the regional economy, predicting river traffic to increase by 50 percent.

Cretu said the funds would make river navigation safer and protect areas threatened by flooding. The money will be invested in modernizing two floodgates in eastern Romania that link the Danube to the Black Sea.

The Danube is Europe's second longest river after the Volga and flows through nine countries, starting in Germany's Black Forest, before passing through Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, and Ukraine.
BUCHAREST, Romania (AP)  Romanian and German archaeologists have discovered a prehistoric fortress dating back as far as 3,400 years in western Romania.

Archaeologist Florin Gogaltan told The Associated Press on Tuesday that the find represented "one of the biggest prehistoric fortresses in Europe in the Bronze Age."

Gogaltan, a researcher at the Archaeology Institute in Cluj northwestern Romania, said the team used specialized archaeological magnetic equipment to take underground measurements. Last week, they completed a dig uncovering 55 hectares (135 acres) of the 80-hectare (198-acre) site, built between 1,400 B.C. and 1,200 B.C., located near the town of Santana, and plan to continue next year.

Gogaltan worked with Rudiger Krause, a professor at Goethe University in Frankfurt, and Gogaltan said German archaeologists helped with financing and specialized equipment.

Romanian archaeologists first began to excavate the site in 2009.

___

This story has been corrected to show that the spelling of the archaeologist last name is Gogaltan, not Golgatan.
Monday was a historic night on WWE Raw, because a little over six months after officially signing with the WWE, mixed martial arts icon and former UFC champion Ronda Rousey fought in her first official Raw match, against Alicia Fox.

Rousey has fought in two pay-per-view matches and appeared on Raw a handful of times to advance her storyline  like last week, when Fox threw her into a wall a few times. So naturally Rousey was ready for revenge.

Rousey  recently back from a monthlong suspension for beating up the shows general manager, Kurt Angle  will fight Raw womens champion, Alexa Bliss, at SummerSlam in New York on Aug. 19. Bliss was ringside supporting Fox at Mondays fight, and Rousey made sure to send her a message.

Before delivering her signature move, the armbar, Rousey made gestures and was talking toward Bliss, most likely pointing out the dominance that she had displayed in beating Fox easily.

WWE Raw airs Mondays at 8 p.m. on USA.

Check out how Ronda Rousey got her suspension extended on WWE Monday Night Raw:

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Tell us what you think! Hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, or leave your comments below. And check out our host, Kylie Mar, on Twitter, Facebook,or Instagram.
It was an historic night on WWE Monday Night RAW, because a little over six months after officially signing with the WWE, mixed martial arts icon and former UFC champion Ronda Rousey fought in her first official RAW match against Alicia Fox. Rousey has fought in two pay per view matches and appeared on RAW a handful of times to advance her storyline, like last week when Fox threw her into a wall a few times. So, naturally, Rousey was ready for revenge.Rousey, who is recently back from a month-long suspension for beating up the shows general manager, Kurt Angle, will be fighting the RAW womens champion, Alexa Bliss, at SummerSlam in New York on August 19th. And with Bliss ringside for Mondays fight in support of Fox, Rousey made sure to send her a message.

Before delivering her signature move, the armbar, Rousey made some gestures and was talking toward Bliss, most likely pointing out the dominance that she just displayed in easily beating Fox.

WWE Monday Night Raw airs Mondays at 8 p.m. on USA.

Check out how Ronda Rousey got her suspension extended on WWE Monday Night Raw:

Read more from Yahoo! Entertainment:

Tell us what you think! Hit us up on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, or leave your comments below. And check out our host, Kylie Mar, on Twitter, Facebook,or Instagram.
- David McNew

Earth may be on a runaway trajectory towards a hothouse climate which will see huge swathes of the planet become uninhabitable and 200ft sea level rises, an international team of scientists has warned.

A new review found that even if targets to cap global warming at 2C are met, it may already be too late because of a domino effect of other factors such as the ongoing reduction in Arctic sea ice and the deforestation of the Amazon rainforest.

Lead author Professor Will Steffen of the Stockholm Resilience Centre said Earth was reaching a tipping point where it would be impossible to control devastating climate change.

"Human emissions of greenhouse gas are not the sole determinant of temperature on Earth, said Prof Steffen.

Our study suggests that human-induced global warming of 2C may trigger other Earth system processes, often called "feedbacks", that can drive further warming - even if we stop emitting greenhouse gases.

Avoiding this scenario requires a redirection of human actions from exploitation to stewardship of the Earth system."

Even if emissions are brought under control climate feedback systems could still push the Earth into a hothouse scenario, warn scientists Credit: John Giles

Currently, global average temperatures are just over 1C above pre-industrial levels and rising at 0.17C per decade. Under the Paris Agreement countries have agreed to cut carbon dioxide emissions so that warming does not pass 2C.

But the authors warned there were ten natural feedback processes which could trigger rapid change even if targets are met. Those are: permafrost thaw, loss of methane from the ocean floor, weakening land and ocean carbon sinks, increasing bacterial respiration in the oceans, Amazon rainforest dieback, boreal forest dieback, reduction of northern hemisphere snow cover, loss of Arctic summer sea ice, and reduction of Antarctic sea ice and polar ice sheets.

A polar bear testing the strength of thin sea ice in the Arctic Credit: Mario Hoppmann AFP

As an example, permafrost thawing, forest dieback and the biological release of carbon from the soil and ocean would add an extra half a degree alone to the warming climate.

"These tipping elements can potentially act like a row of dominoes, said co-author Johan Rockstrom, incoming co-Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research.

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"Once one is pushed over, it pushes Earth towards another. It may be very difficult or impossible to stop the whole row of dominoes from tumbling over. Places on Earth will become uninhabitable if "Hothouse Earth" becomes the reality."

At a glance | Paris climate accord

They said the climate would eventually stabilise at a global average of 4-5C higher than pre-industrial temperatures with sea level 32 to 196 feet higher than today.

The scientists conclude: "Where such a threshold might be is uncertain, but it could be only decades ahead at a temperature rise of 2C above pre-industrial."

Commenting on the findings, climate researcher Dr Phil Williamson, from the University of East Anglia, said: "In the context of the summer of 2018, this is definitely not a case of crying wolf, raising a false alarm. The wolves are now in sight."

The researchers say it is crucial to not only cut emissions but also create new carbon stores through schemes such as planting new forests.

Forests currently soak up huge amounts of carbon but they may soon reach a tipping point Credit: REX/Shutterstock

However Chris Rapley, Professor of Climate Science at University College London, said global agreement was unlikely.

"To avoid such a fate, Steffen et al point out that a deep transformation is required based on a fundamental reorientation of human values, equity, behaviour, institutions, economies and technology," he said.

Given the evidence of human history, this would seem a naive hope at the best of times. But at a time of the widespread rise of Right Wing Populism, and specific denial of climate change as an issue, the likelihood that the combination of factors necessary to allow humanity to navigate the planet to an acceptable intermediate state must surely be close to zero.

Stephen Cornelius, Chief Adviser on Climate Change at WWF, added: "Climate change is one of the greatest threats facing nature and people. It means extreme weather such as the heatwave scorching the UK and Europe could become the new normal. Meek ambition and mild half measures are not enough in this fight for the planet - we need strong action from the UK Government through rapid and deep cuts to emissions. "

For more information please contact:

The new study was published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).
Watch out New York, Hurricane Odell is preparing to make landfall. The star receiver is reportedly in negotiations with the Giants, who might make Odell Beckham Jr. the highest paid WR in the league. If the money becomes an issue, could Hurricane Odell move west? Now that the Browns traded Corey Coleman to the Bills, might we see ODB in Cleveland? Stay tuned to The Rushs weather report to find out.

Meanwhile, Bronny James, son of King James has made his Decisionon where to go to school in the fall. Make sure to watch the video to find out where Bronny will play. Heres a hint its a well-known school of the stars on Los Angeles westside that has produced other NBA players.

And finally, Joel Embiid continues to be the funniest player in the NBA, even if its unintentional. The 76ers big man posted a video of himself cuddling with a lion cub, which was totally adorableuntil the kitty bit Joel, chomping away on his arm! Sorry to take some pleasure in your pain, Joel, but its too funny not to laugh. Heal up before the season starts.
By Polina Ivanova MOSCOW (Reuters) - Three Russian TV journalists killed in Central African Republic last month while investigating the activities of a clandestine firm of Russian private military contractors were laid to rest in Moscow on Tuesday. Orhan Dzhemal, Alexander Rastorguyev and Kirill Radchenko were killed about 200 km (125 miles) northeast of the volatile African state's capital Bangui, according to local officials. The Russian Foreign Ministry has said the three men were killed during a robbery, but colleagues of the dead journalists have launched an investigation into their murders, the circumstances of which they say remain unclear. "We have been orphaned," documentary maker Pavel Kostomarov told a group of mourners, many in tears, outside a church in central Moscow following a wake for filmmaker Rastorguyev. Some of the mourners held the dead journalist's portrait. Outside a mosque in northern Moscow, the son of slain journalist Orhan Dzhemal addressed hundreds who had come to pay their respects. "People like him are rare. If there were just a few more people like him, the world would be a much better place," Mansour, Dzhemal's young son, said. "His whole life was a heroic act, a fight for justice and against oppression," fellow journalist Maksim Shevchenko told mourners, who had carried Dzhemal's casket into the mosque. "He always came to the aid of the weak, he was always on the side of those who were threatened with danger," said Shevchenko. Radchenko was laid to rest in a closed ceremony, the Ekho Moskvy radio station reported. The three men were on assignment for TsUR, an online news organization funded by anti-Kremlin campaigner and former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky. Their trip was fraught with issues from the start. They were forced to change their plans at the last minute, they struggled to communicate with their driver, and had inconsistent contact with their fixer. Central African Republic has been ravaged by violence, with most of the country beyond the control of its central government. Russian officials have said the journalists were sent on the mission with inadequate planning for such a dangerous environment. Khodorkovsky has said the journalists were experienced war correspondents who made their own decisions about security and were given the resources they asked for. (Reporting by Polina Ivanova; Editing by Andrew Osborn)
Moscow (AFP) - Russia on Tuesday said it was "deeply disappointed" by US President Donald Trump's decision to re-impose unilateral sanctions on Iran.

"We are deeply disappointed by US steps to reimpose its national sanctions against Iran," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement.

The ministry said it will do "everything necessary" to save the historic 2015 Iran nuclear deal and protect its shared economic interests with Tehran.

"This is a clear example of Washington violating UN Resolution 2231 (on the Iran deal) and international law," the statement said.

Moscow said the multi-party nuclear agreement Trump abandoned in May has "shown its effectiveness".

It called on the international community "not to allow such significant achievements in multilateral diplomacy to be sacrificed in the name of American aspirations to settle political scores with Iran."

"As long-term experience has shown, it will not be possible to gain concessions from Iran using pressure," the statement said.

The US re-imposed a wave of tough, unilateral sanctions against Iran on Tuesday, bringing back into effect harsh penalties lifted by the deal.

The first of two rounds of US sanctions kicked in at 12:01 am (0431 GMT), targeting Iran's access to US banknotes and key industries, including cars and carpets.

Iranians are already seeing the effects of the sanctions, with Iran's rial currency losing around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the nuclear accord.

Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP)  NASCAR needed 99 races for budding superstar Chase Elliott to finally win his first Cup race and didn't even get a full day to celebrate the milestone.

NASCAR Chairman Brian France has taken a leave from his family owned company following his arrest Sunday night on charges of driving while intoxicated and criminal possession of oxycodone . France blew through a stop sign in Sag Harbor, New York, police said, not long after Elliott crossed the finish line some 350 miles away in Watkins Glen.

Police said at the time he was pulled over France struggled to keep his balance during field sobriety tests, his eyes were red and glassy, and tests showed his blood-alcohol content was nearly twice New York's legal limit. Officers found five oxycodone pills during a subsequent search, police said.

The head of the most popular racing series in the U.S. spent the night in jail  a punch to the gut for a series reeling from slumping attendance and television ratings, and a decline in blockbuster sponsorship deals. France shifted the attention away from Elliott's victory, which signified a passing of the torch and a rare feel-good moment at a time of almost constant negativity in NASCAR .

Jim France, uncle to Brian France, has assumed the interim titles of Chairman and CEO and is assisted by Lesa France Kennedy, Brian's sister.

A day after the shake-up, few seemed concerned about the direction of NASCAR with Brian France sidelined.

"Lesa and Jim are going to do a great job," Denny Hamlin said Tuesday. "I'm confident in the leadership of NASCAR. I know all of the executives really, really well. I get invited into some very intense meetings with them at times, and am very confident that those guys can take the reins and do a great job."

Because NASCAR is privately owned and run in large part by Brian France, Jim France and Lesa France Kennedy, there is no clear indication of how hands-on Brian France was or what kind of void his absence will create. The stakeholders are hopeful Jim France, the second son of NASCAR's founder, can be a steadying hand in trying times for the series.

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"We've got to look to our sport's future, what we can change and what we can do next," said Kyle Busch. "Brian's been our leader for a long time. Look forward now to the opportunity to have Jim France in there."

Jim France and Lesa France Kennedy have always been in the mix of both NASCAR and International Speedway Corp., but the role of face of the family fell to Brian. He's the grandson of founder Bill France Sr. and replaced his father, Bill France Jr., as head of NASCAR in 2003.

Brian France took charge during a time the sport was booming in popularity and sponsors were beating down the door to get their logos on a race car. Although many of Brian France's initiatives were progressive and needed in some form, staunch fans have vehemently rejected his vision.

Brian France introduced a playoff system, overhauled the design of the series' cars and pushed for diversity within the circuit's predominantly white, male ranks.

But as viewership has declined, sponsors have pulled out of NASCAR and Brian France has not made himself available to the public. He appeared increasingly detached from NASCAR over the past several seasons and is rarely seen at a race. Aside from an occasional random call to SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Brian France has said almost nothing about NASCAR's woes this season.

His lack of engagement created a logjam at the top of NASCAR. Chief Operating Officer Steve Phelps and executive vice president Steve O'Donnell have tried to clean up NASCAR's mess, but they have been handcuffed like many NASCAR executives by an absence of leadership at the very top. Both Jim France and Lesa France Kennedy have become more involved this year and had privately been picking up the slack for Brian France.

If the rest of the France family is taking charge, the message needs to be delivered publicly, said Ramsey Poston, who spent more than 10 years as a communications executive for NASCAR.

"It will be important for NASCAR leadership to reassure key partners that the sport is in good hands and is positively moving forward," said Poston, who is now president of consulting firm Tuckahoe Strategies. "Very quickly, Jim France and others should be working on a plan to restore confidence in the sport and roll out a definitive vision for the future."

It's not likely to happen soon as Jim France and Lesa France Kennedy are not accustomed to public roles. So neither said anything as of Tuesday, and the attention instead was steered back toward Elliott. He was greeted by several hundred supporters Sunday night when his plane landed in Georgia, which he touched on during a national conference call conducted by NASCAR.

As for the off-track news that usurped his victory?

"I haven't ever had any issues with Jim," Elliott said. "I expect them to do fine, and it doesn't change my job, so I'm going to do my thing."

So it is basically business as usual for NASCAR, and that's exactly the way it should be, said longtime France family adversary Bruton Smith. Owner of rival company Speedway Motorsports Inc., Smith sparred with Bill France Jr. during his 31-year leadership reign, but has a better relationship with Brian France.

"Our sport is big, big, big and it's bigger than just one person," Smith said. "We go forward. We have to in this sport. At this point in time, NASCAR needs friends and people that will help. It's a great sport and we go forward and we all should be very protective of it and be willing to lend a helping hand."

Smith also noted France's arrest gave NASCAR an opportunity to make a change after years of race fans calling for the ouster of Brian France.

"They were catching a lot of heat by not doing something," Smith said.

But Felix Sabates, who has had at least partial ownership of a top-level NASCAR team since 1989, believes Brian France has been unfairly blamed for the downturn in the series. He said the entire industry shoulders blame for NASCAR's slide, and owners and drivers have combined to drive operating costs through the roof.

"I think NASCAR, owners and drivers need to get on the same page to reverse the trend, and everyone has to share in the responsibility," Sabates said, arguing Brian France deserves a spot in the sport when he decides to return.

"We need to find it in our hearts to forgive Brian for his mistakes," Sabates said. "Whenever he finishes what he needs to do, we all at NASCAR need to welcome him back with open arms. There is a side of Brian most people don't see. He is fun to be with, he knows as many funny jokes as his daddy, he is very charitable. He is a very simple person."

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Hank Kurz Jr. in Richmond, Virginia, and Pete Iacobelli in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, contributed to this report.

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More AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/tag/apf-AutoRacing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
By Aziz El Yaakoubi and David Ljunggren

RIYADH/OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canada on Monday refused to back down in its defence of human rights after Saudi Arabia froze new trade and investment and expelled the Canadian ambassador in retaliation for Ottawa's call to free arrested Saudi civil society activists.

In her first public response to Saudi Arabia's actions, Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said, "Canada will always stand up for human rights in Canada and around the world, and women's rights are human rights."

Riyadh on Sunday recalled its ambassador from Canada and gave the Canadian ambassador 24 hours to leave. The Saudi government also banned new trade with Canada, although it was unclear if it would affect existing annual Saudi-Canadian trade of nearly $4 billion (3.1 billion) and a $13 billion defence contract.

The moves were a stern rebuke to Canada after the country on Friday expressed concern over the arrests of activists in Saudi Arabia, including prominent women's rights campaigner Samar Badawi, and called for their release.

Riyadh said that amounted to "a blatant interference in the Kingdom's domestic affairs, against basic international norms and all international protocols."

Saudi Arabia's sudden sharp response to criticism shows the limits of reforms by Saudi Arabia's 32-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who runs its day-to-day government. He has launched a campaign of social and economic change, but has not eased the absolute monarchy's total ban on political activism.

In recent months Saudi Arabia has lifted a ban on women driving, but it has also arrested activists, including more than a dozen high-profile campaigners for women's rights.

In the fist comments by Washington since the dispute erupted, a U.S. State Department official said the United States had asked Riyadh for details on the detention of activists.

"We continue to encourage the government of Saudi Arabia to respect due process and to publicize information on the status of legal cases," the official added.

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CAUGHT OFF GUARD

On Monday, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir criticised Canada's calls to free arrested civil society activists as a position built on "misleading" information.

The moves, carried on the official Saudi Press Agency, caught diplomats in Riyadh off guard. Both the Saudi and Canadian ambassadors were away on leave at the time.

The kingdom will suspend educational exchange programmes with Canada and move Saudi scholarship recipients to other countries, Saudi-owned Al Arabiya reported on Monday.

"It would be a shame for those students if they are deprived of the opportunity to study here," Freeland told reporters.

Neighbours and allies Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates said they stood with Riyadh, although they did not announce similar measures.

Saudi state airline Saudia said it was suspending flights to and from Toronto, Canada's largest city.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), a loose association of the six Gulf Arab countries, the Arab League and Palestine also supported Saudi policy. But Qatar, which has been locked in a diplomatic rift with Saudi Arabia and other neighbours for over a year, said on its foreign ministry's official Twitter account that the GCC secretary general's statement did not represent its view of the situation.

LIMITS TO REFORM

Crown Prince Mohammed, as heir to the throne, is in line to become the first Saudi king from a new generation after a succession of six brothers dating to 1953. He has ambitions to diversify the economy from oil exports and ease some social restrictions. But his reforms include no changes that would liberalise a political system that allows no public dissent.

Amnesty International said the response to Canada showed that it was important Western countries not be intimidated into silence over Riyadh's treatment of dissenters.

"Instead of pursuing human rights reform, the government of Saudi Arabia has chosen to lash out with punitive measures in the face of criticism," said Samah Hadid, Amnesty Internationals Middle East Director of Campaigns.

Riyadh has a record of responding robustly to Western criticism under Mohammed bin Salman.

"Saudi Arabia is shooting itself in the foot. If you want to open up your country to the world, you don't start expelling ambassadors and freezing trade with countries such as Canada," said Joost Hiltermann, regional programme director for the International Crisis Group.

Saudi-Canadian trade consists largely of Saudi exports of petrochemicals, plastics and other products. In 2014, the Canadian unit of U.S. weapons maker General Dynamics Corp won a contract worth up to $13 billion to build light-armoured vehicles for Saudi Arabia, in what Ottawa said was the largest advanced manufacturing export win in Canadian history.

"We are waiting for Saudi Arabia to offer some more specifics on what they intend to do," Freeland said when asked about the arms deal.

(Reporting by Aziz El Yaakoubi in Riyadh, Nayera Abdullah in Cairo, Katie Paul in Dubai and David Ljunggren in Ottawa; Writing by Denny Thomas and Katie Paul; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and James Dalgleish)
By Aziz El Yaakoubi and David Ljunggren

RIYADH/OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canada on Monday refused to back down in its defence of human rights after Saudi Arabia froze new trade and investment and expelled the Canadian ambassador in retaliation for Ottawa's call to free arrested Saudi civil society activists.

In her first public response to Saudi Arabia's actions, Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said, "Canada will always stand up for human rights in Canada and around the world, and women's rights are human rights."

Riyadh on Sunday recalled its ambassador from Canada and gave the Canadian ambassador 24 hours to leave. The Saudi government also banned new trade with Canada, although it was unclear if it would affect existing annual Saudi-Canadian trade of nearly $4 billion and a $13 billion defence contract.

The moves were a stern rebuke to Canada after the country on Friday expressed concern over the arrests of activists in Saudi Arabia, including prominent women's rights campaigner Samar Badawi, and called for their release.

Riyadh said that amounted to "a blatant interference in the Kingdom's domestic affairs, against basic international norms and all international protocols."

Saudi Arabia's sudden sharp response to criticism shows the limits of reforms by Saudi Arabia's 32-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who runs its day-to-day government. He has launched a campaign of social and economic change, but has not eased the absolute monarchy's total ban on political activism.

In recent months Saudi Arabia has lifted a ban on women driving, but it has also arrested activists, including more than a dozen high-profile campaigners for women's rights.

In the fist comments by Washington since the dispute erupted, a U.S. State Department official said the United States had asked Riyadh for details on the detention of activists.

"We continue to encourage the government of Saudi Arabia to respect due process and to publicize information on the status of legal cases," the official added.

Story continues

CAUGHT OFF GUARD

On Monday, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir criticised Canada's calls to free arrested civil society activists as a position built on "misleading" information.

The moves, carried on the official Saudi Press Agency, caught diplomats in Riyadh off guard. Both the Saudi and Canadian ambassadors were away on leave at the time.

The kingdom will suspend educational exchange programmes with Canada and move Saudi scholarship recipients to other countries, Saudi-owned Al Arabiya reported on Monday.

"It would be a shame for those students if they are deprived of the opportunity to study here," Freeland told reporters.

Neighbours and allies Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates said they stood with Riyadh, although they did not announce similar measures.

Saudi state airline Saudia said it was suspending flights to and from Toronto, Canada's largest city.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), a loose association of the six Gulf Arab countries, the Arab League and Palestine also supported Saudi policy. But Qatar, which has been locked in a diplomatic rift with Saudi Arabia and other neighbours for over a year, said on its foreign ministry's official Twitter account that the GCC secretary general's statement did not represent its view of the situation.

LIMITS TO REFORM

Crown Prince Mohammed, as heir to the throne, is in line to become the first Saudi king from a new generation after a succession of six brothers dating to 1953. He has ambitions to diversify the economy from oil exports and ease some social restrictions. But his reforms include no changes that would liberalise a political system that allows no public dissent.

Amnesty International said the response to Canada showed that it was important Western countries not be intimidated into silence over Riyadh's treatment of dissenters.

"Instead of pursuing human rights reform, the government of Saudi Arabia has chosen to lash out with punitive measures in the face of criticism," said Samah Hadid, Amnesty Internationals Middle East Director of Campaigns.

Riyadh has a record of responding robustly to Western criticism under Mohammed bin Salman.

"Saudi Arabia is shooting itself in the foot. If you want to open up your country to the world, you don't start expelling ambassadors and freezing trade with countries such as Canada," said Joost Hiltermann, regional programme director for the International Crisis Group.

Saudi-Canadian trade consists largely of Saudi exports of petrochemicals, plastics and other products. In 2014, the Canadian unit of U.S. weapons maker General Dynamics Corp <GD.N> won a contract worth up to $13 billion to build light-armoured vehicles for Saudi Arabia, in what Ottawa said was the largest advanced manufacturing export win in Canadian history.

"We are waiting for Saudi Arabia to offer some more specifics on what they intend to do," Freeland said when asked about the arms deal.

(Reporting by Aziz El Yaakoubi in Riyadh, Nayera Abdullah in Cairo, Katie Paul in Dubai and David Ljunggren in Ottawa; Writing by Denny Thomas and Katie Paul; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and James Dalgleish)
Riyadh (AFP) - Saudi Arabia's diplomatic rupture with Canada underscores the kingdom's newly combative foreign policy to tame international criticism after a crackdown on domestic critics, as it struggles to implement risky reforms, analysts say.

Saudi Arabia on Monday expelled Canada's ambassador and recalled its own envoy while freezing all new trade and investments, after Ottawa denounced a new crackdown on women and human rights activists in the kingdom.

Riyadh also said it will relocate thousands of Saudi students studying in Canada to other countries, while state airline Saudia announced it was suspending flights to Toronto.

Experts said the move illustrates how the oil-rich kingdom is increasingly seeking to use its economic and diplomatic muscle to quell foreign criticism under its young de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

"This is clearly an attempt to bully countries to tone down their criticism of Saudi Arabia," James Dorsey, a fellow at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, told AFP.

"The question is: are they going to allow themselves to be bullied? They (critics) are not going to fall on their knees."

Canada on Monday indicated it will not back down, despite the risk of imperilling business deals including a significant $15 billion agreement to sell Riyadh light armoured vehicles.

If the deal is scrapped, thousands of jobs could be lost in Canada, experts say.

But "Canada will always stand up for human rights, in Canada and around the world, and women's rights are human rights," said Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland.

- 'Discipline foreign critics' -

Canada annoyed Riyadh last week when it called for the "immediate release" of rights campaigners, including award-winning women's rights activist Samar Badawi, the sister of jailed blogger Raif Badawi.

Samar Badawi was arrested along with fellow campaigner Nassima al-Sadah last week, the latest victims of what Human Rights Watch called an "unprecedented government crackdown" on women activists.

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It came after more than a dozen women's rights campaigners were detained and accused of undermining national security and collaborating with enemies of the state.

"After 'disciplining' domestic critics through warnings & arrests (Saudi Arabia is) seeking to use economic leverage & diplomatic actions to discipline foreign critics as well," tweeted Kristin Diwan, of the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington.

So far major Western powers including the United States -- a key ally of Saudi Arabia -- have not publicly come out in support of Canada, though it is not the first country to be targeted for speaking up.

In March 2015, Saudi Arabia recalled its ambassador from Stockholm over criticism by the Swedish foreign minister of Riyadh's human rights record.

Earlier this year, Bloomberg News reported that Saudi Arabia was scaling back its dealings with some German companies amid a diplomatic spat with Berlin.

The move came after Germany's foreign minister last November remarked that Lebanon was a "pawn" of Saudi Arabia after the surprise resignation of its Prime Minister Saad Hariri while in Riyadh.

"Saudi Arabia was historically defined by its calculated diplomacy," Gulf affairs expert Khalil Harb told AFP.

But such an "aggressive and rash" stance towards Canada illustrates an "extremist foreign policy driven by the young crown prince", Harb added.

Prince Mohammed has drawn criticism not just over human rights but also for pursuing a ruinous bombing campaign in neighbouring Yemen, which is in the grip of war and a humanitarian crisis.

- 'Hyper-nationalism' -

Lashing out at Canada, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir on Monday said the kingdom "will deal with any interference decisively".

Some Saudi supporters bashing Canada on social media appeared to take that threat too far.

A pro-Saudi Twitter account stirred outrage when it invoked 9/11 imagery with a digitally altered image showing a plane flying towards the Toronto skyline.

The account later apologised and the image was reposted with the plane removed, but screenshots of the original tweet spread quickly.

Saudi Arabia appeared to have shut down the account on Tuesday.

"What we're seeing... is (an) example of growing hyper-nationalism constructed in Saudi Arabia: vigorously defending sovereignty through punitive measures against transnational civil society groups and countries that support them," said Diwan.

But proponents of Prince Mohammed's aggressive stance say he seeks to avoid complications that could derail his highly sensitive social and economic reform drive -- opposed by many arch-conservatives.

The 32-year-old crown prince, set to be the first millennial to occupy the throne in a country where half the population is under 25, has introduced a string of reforms such as lifting a decades-long ban on women drivers.

The prince "aims for change but is unwilling to be guided by other countries, nor establish quick change that could trigger the risk of conflict inside the kingdom," Najah al-Otaibi, a senior analyst at pro-Saudi think-tank Arabia Foundation, told AFP.

"Of course Canada can continue supporting Saudi Arabia's reforms, but through means other than pressure and criticism."
The good news is that the estimated crowd at the Save Urban Meyer rally Monday evening was about 200. It lasted 10 minutes. They chanted and sang Carmen Ohio and waved signs, basically turning this into GameDay for the disturbingly out of touch, and then it was over.

The gathering of 200 myopic freaks  incredibly including Stacy Elliott, father of former Buckeye Ezekiel Elliott, who was suspended by the NFL last year for alleged domestic violence  is an embarrassment to the school. But 200 dont speak for an entire, massive fan base.

The bad news is that by the time the rally commenced at 6 p.m. outside Ohio Stadium, some 28,200 signatures had been gathered on an online petition to save the Buckeyes $7 million god-coach from the horrors of paid administrative leave. Thats a significant number, and perhaps indicative of the kind of backlash that could await Ohio State if it chooses to seriously sanction  or even dismiss  the second-best current coach in college football.

Seriously mess with the football fortunes of the Buckeyes, and then lets see how big the campus rally could be.

Loyalties blur the sense of judgment, said Peter Roby, former athletic director at Northeastern and leader of the schools Center for the Study of Sport and Society. When you get local and get connected as personally as these people are to their programs, they will find a way to make an excuse for someones behavior, if its someone they want to believe in and want to root for.

Jeff Hamms, organizer of a rally in support of Ohio State head football coach Urban Meyer, speaks on Monday. (Getty)

Heres the rest of the bad news: Even though 200 people is a relatively small number outside a stadium that seats 105,000, would a simultaneous rally in support of victims of domestic abuse have drawn even 100? Fifty? Twenty?

[The rally goers] need to think why theyre rallying around Urban Meyer, and not rallying around Courtney Smith, said Kathy Redmond, founder of the National Coalition Against Violent Athletes.

Courtney Smith, of course, is the ex-wife of ex-Buckeyes receivers coach Zach Smith. The legal action and public statements she has taken alleging abuse at the hands of Zach is what landed Ohio State in this troubled position, with an independent commission investigating whether Meyer acted sufficiently in response to the allegation.

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We dont know the truth of what happened between the Smiths. Maybe only they do. But hopefully we should know within 14 days the fate of Meyer as the Ohio State coach.

Last Friday, shortly after Meyer issued a statement declaring that he followed protocol and procedure in dealing with the allegations, Zach Smith went on an interview blitz. In it, he claimed to have never hit Courtney  though he did ramble on about their relationship being volatile and toxic and rife with aggressive situations. But mostly what Zach Smith did was defend Meyer, characterizing him as an uncompromising defender of women.

This is what angers Redmond  watching the news cycle turn on the fate of a football coach, and relegating the alleged abuser and alleged victim to secondary status.

Urban Meyer is responsible for bringing this person into the Ohio State University, into Columbus, onto that campus, Redmond said. Urban Meyer had many opportunities  many opportunities  to do the right thing. People act like he didnt have the power to do the right thing, yet so many of these coaches have more power than the governor. When youre in that insular vacuum, with that much power, youre going to make decisions that best suit you.

And yet people see Urban Meyer as the victim.

Other than the neanderthal holding the sign making fun of Me Too, nobody at the rally appeared to take aim at Courtney Smith in particular or female victims of violence in general. Many of them did, weirdly, go after ESPN  the outlet that fired the reporter who has broken most of this story, Brett McMurphy. That mentality underscored the disconnect between the need for serious domestic violence discussions and the dullards who want to squabble with media commentators saying something mean about their coach.

For those people: This isnt the Big Ten vs. the Southeastern Conference. This isnt someone saying Ohio State shouldnt be in the College Football Playoff. This is something bigger than who wins and who loses on fall Saturdays.

This is a question of whether Urban Meyer did what he could have done and should have done to take care of a major issue with a member of his coaching staff. Until that is determined by the committee investigating, a paid leave of absence is the least Ohio State could responsibly do.

Away from campus, you wonder how the women at Lutheran Social Services Choices for Victims of Domestic Violence may have viewed the rally. Or the women who arent in a shelter, who are being abused and havent yet spoken up.

This is why they dont come forward, Redmond said. This is a prime example of why they stay silent. This kind of demonstration is sending the message that its not OK to come forward.

In that case, even a 10-minute gathering is too long and 200 people are too many.

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A U.S. Air Force plane drops fire retardant on a burning hillside in the Ranch Fire in Clearlake Oaks, California on Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018. (Photo: Associated Press)

Firefighters in California continue to battle multiple deadly wildfires that have destroyed lives and homes across the state.

North of San Francisco, authorities are fighting the Mendocino Complex Fire, which has become the second largest wildfire in Californias history. It includes two blazes along the Mendocino National Forest.

Photos also show the deadly Carr Fire, which firefighters have been battling near Redding since the end of July.

See more photos of the California wildfires below.

A firefighter walks along a containment line while battling a wildfire Saturday, July 28, 2018, in Redding, California.

A firefighter walks through smoke during the Mendocino Complex Fire in Lakeport.

A helicopter drops water on a burning hillside during the Ranch Fire in Clearlake Oaks, California.

Firefighters watch as an air tanker drops fire retardant to protect homes along the crest of a hill at the River Fire near Lakeport, California.

Flames consume a home as the River Fire tears though Lakeport.

A tree burns from the inside during the Ranch Fire in Clearlake Oaks, California.

A resident pushes personal belongings in a wheelbarrow as she evacuates ahead of the River fire.

Bulldozer operators and their machines build containment lines while battling the River Fire.

A car passes through flames on Highway 299 as the Carr Fire burns through Shasta, California.

Firefighters with Cal Fire Mendocino Unit cover themselves from smoke and ash created by an advancing wildfire in Lakeport.

Firefighters conduct a controlled burn to defend houses against flames from the Ranch Fire.

A firefighter throws an incendiary device into the brush to ignite backfires while battling the Ranch Fire north of Upper Lake, California.

Kambryn Brilz, 12, holds her dog Zoe in front of what remains of her burnt home after she was returned safely by a neighbor during the Carr Fire.

A U.S. Air Force plane drops fire retardant on a burning hillside in the Ranch Fire.

A truck passes by flames during the Ranch Fire.

Wildfire destroyed and sunk boats docked at the marina in Whiskeytown, California.

The Carr Fire tears through Shasta, California.

A road sign warns for ice as the Carr Fire continues to spread toward the towns of Douglas City and Lewiston near Redding, California.

Burnt cars sit ruined in the Keswick neighborhood of Redding.

A helicopter drops water on a burning hillside during the Mendocino Complex Fire near Finley, California.

Burnt houses in the Keswick neighborhood of Redding.

Chickens stand near a burning home as the River Fire moves through the area.

Scarred hills remain after the Carr Fire west of Redding.

Also on HuffPost

A natural-color satellite image of the burned Fountaingrove Golf Club in Santa Rosa, a city in Sonoma County.

An infrared satellite image shows the burned-out Coffey Park neighborhood in Santa Rosa.

The red areas in this infrared satellite image represent living vegetation among burned-out homes in Santa Rosa.

The fire line of the Santa Rosa wildfire can be seen in this infrared satellite image.

Fire damage is seen from the air in the Coffey Park neighborhood of Santa Rosa on Oct. 11, 2017.

More than 200 fire engines and firefighting crews from around the country were being rushed to California on Wednesday.

Aerial views of the Kmart store destroyed by fire along the 101 freeway in Santa Rosa.

Fire damage is seen from the air in the Coffey Park neighborhood.

Surrounding neighborhoods appear untouched by fire outside the Coffey Park neighborhood.

An aerial view shows the Journey's End mobile home park in Santa Rosa.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
By Camillus Eboh and Felix Onuah ABUJA (Reuters) - Nigeria's security forces stopped lawmakers entering parliament on Tuesday in a blockade seen by the opposition as a bid to intimidate its leaders, but the presidency condemned the move and the acting president fired the head of the security agency. It is the first such incident since Nigeria became a democracy in 1999 and coincides with increased tension between the National Assembly and the executive ahead of an election in February 2019 when President Muhammadu Buhari will seek a second term. For some, it revived memories of the decades when the military and security forces held sway over politics in a country that has one of Africa's largest economies. Armed men wearing the black uniform of the Department of State Security (DSS) stood at the gates of the building in the capital Abuja and were later joined by police officers blocking entry for up to an hour, witnesses said. Images of the incident were shared widely on social media. The motive for the blockade was not immediately clear. But a spokesman for Vice President Yemi Osinbajo said in a statement that the DSS director general, Lawal Musa Daura, had been fired. Osinbajo is acting president for Buhari, who last week left for a 10-day holiday in Britain. "The unlawful act, which was done without the knowledge of the presidency, is condemnable and completely unacceptable," said a separate statement issued later by Osinbajo's office. It described the move as an "unauthorized takeover of the National Assembly complex" which was "a gross violation of constitutional order, rule of law and all accepted notions of law and order". The statement gave no reason for Daura's dismissal. The presidency later said Matthew B. Seiyefa, the most senior director in the DSS, will act as director general until further notice. DEFECTION The blockade followed the defection of around 50 lawmakers from Buhari's ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party to the main opposition in the last few weeks. These included the country's third most senior elected official, Senate President Bukola Saraki. The defections cost the APC its Senate majority and present a challenge to Buhari's re-election bid because most of those who left joined the opposition People's Democratic Party which ruled Nigeria from 1999 until Buhari took office in May 2015. Saraki's supporters said the blockade was part of a plan to impeach and replace him. Parliament went on recess last week until Sept. 25 but meetings were to be held on Tuesday. "We urge Nigerians and the international community to condemn this illegal invasion of the National Assembly complex and the attempt to asphyxiate the legislature as undemocratic, uncivilized and irresponsible," said Saraki in a tweet. After the blockade, Saraki's supporters greeted him with chanting in the parliament building. "The presidency's sack of Daura was a damage-control stunt and a knee-jerk gimmick which came as a response to the national and international outcry against the armed invasion of our legislature," said a PDP statement. The ruling party said attempts to blame its leaders for Tuesday's blockade were "false allegations" and "mischievous". "The use of armed security agents to force political outcomes does not bode well for the February 2019 general election," said Malte Liewerscheidt, vice president at Teneo Intelligence, in a note. (Additional reporting by Alexis Akwagyiram and Chijioke Ohuocha in LagosWriting by Alexis AkwagyiramEditing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg)
MOSCOW (AP)  A United States senator who met with Russian lawmakers in Moscow said he invited them to visit Washington and they accepted Monday.

Sen. Rand Paul said during a trip to Russia that American and Russian legislators need closer contact, noting that "our biggest problem right now is no dialogue."

The Kentucky Republican said after meeting with members of the foreign affairs committee for Russia's upper house of parliament that he invited them to come to the U.S. capital. Paul added that lawmakers from the two countries could also meet in a neutral third nation.

"Those who believe in either country that we should not have diplomacy are greatly mistaken," he said.

Konstantin Kosachev, the head of the foreign affairs committee in the Federation Council, the upper house, strongly backed Paul's effort to promote contacts.

"Each of these meetings is important for a better understanding of each other and for talking about the perspectives of how to escape the 'dead end' of the relationship," Kosachev said.

In a statement released by his office, Paul emphasized that "engagement is vital to our national security and peace around the world."

"I invited the Russian Federation to send a delegation to the Capitol, and they have agreed to take this important next step," he said.

Paul has nurtured a close relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump and defended Trump after the president's Helsinki summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin last month.

After meeting with upper house members, Paul also met Monday with members of the Russian parliament's lower house, the State Duma.
BELGRADE, Serbia (AP)  Serbia denounced Israel on Monday because its military jets and envoys took part in a ceremony in Croatia marking a victorious 1995 offensive against rebel Serb-held territories.

Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic told a private Belgrade television station that "it's sad that an Israeli flag flew yesterday at the celebration of that criminal action." He added that "we are very disappointed."

He said it is "immoral" that Israel took part in the commemoration when tens of thousands of Jews, as well as Serbs and Gypsies, perished in Croatian Nazi-run death camps during World War II.

Serbia considers Israel its close ally with a common history of suffering of their peoples during the war.

Three Israeli Air Force F-16s took part in a flyby during Sunday's ceremony marking the anniversary of the operation that restored Croatia's control over land held by rebel Serbs during the 1991-95 war. Serbian officials have compared the attack known as Operation Storm to the policies of Nazi Germany.

A statement from the Israeli Embassy in Belgrade said that the participation of Israeli jets was related "solely" to the announced purchase of 12 Israeli F-16s by Croatia.

"This has no political elements or any connection to the historic relations between Serbia and Croatia," the statement said. "The solid friendship that exists between Israel and Serbia will never be jeopardized in any way."

Even before the flyby on Sunday, top Nazi hunter Efraim Zuroff criticized the appearance of Israeli jets at the ceremonies in Croatia.

"Very upset that Israeli Air Force jets will be flying in event to mark 'Operation Storm' during which Croatia expelled 250,000 Serbs from their homes in Croatia," Zuroff tweeted . "Until today no foreign country has ever participated!!"
Serena Williams opened up about her postpartum journey in a social media post Monday. (AP Foto/Tony Avelar)

Last week in San Jose, California, Serena Williams suffered the worst loss of her professional career, 6-1, 6-0. No offense to Johanna Konta, who should forever be proud of the victory, but it was clear there was more going on with Serena than just tennis. Days later she withdrew from the upcoming Rogers Cup.

On Monday, Serena revealed she is struggling with postpartum emotions. Last September, the 23-time Grand Slam champion gave birth to her and her husbands daughter, Olympia.

Last week was not easy for me, Serena wrote in a social media post. Not only was I accepting some tough personal stuff, but I was just in a funk. Mostly, I felt like I was not a good mom.

I read several articles that said postpartum emotions can last up to 3 years if not dealt with. I like communication the best. Talking things through with my mom, my sisters, my friends let me know that my feelings are totally normal.

Its totally normal to feel like Im not doing enough for my baby, she continued. We have all been there.

As great as Serena has been on the court  and there have been none greater  some of her best work has been in relating and leading people struggling through life by sharing her personal hurdles.

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Shes fabulously wealthy and internationally famous, but shes never shied away from acknowledging the challenges in her life.

Shes been open about battling depression and anxiety. Shes discussed dealing with pressure in both her professional and personal life. She publicly suffered through having a sister murdered  her half sister, Yetunde, was mistakenly killed in 2003 when a SUV she was riding in was hit by a hail of bullets. Serena and her sister Venus opened the Yetunde Price Resource Center in Compton, California, which, in part, is there to aid families in similar situations.

And Serena has been willing to share both her pregnancy and the complicated birth of Olympia  which included Serena needing emergency surgery for blood clots in her lungs. She even filmed a multi-part, all-access show for HBO that showed her at her most vulnerable and uncertain.

Now this  someone with seemingly everything trying to show everyone else who might be struggling that they arent alone.

Serena Williams was cheered on by husband Alexis Ohanian and daughter Olympia at the Fed Cup in February. (Getty)

Although I have been with her every day of her life, Im not around as much as I would like to be, Serena wrote. Most of you moms deal with the same thing. Whether stay-at-home or working, finding that balance with kids is a true art. You are the true heroes.

Who knows how many people this reaches. Who knows how many it helps. Who knows how many it comforts.

That Serena is willing to try is what matters. So many celebrities, especially athletes who have built auras of invincibility, understandably shy away from sharing such vulnerability. Thats what makes this so important. If someone as undeniably powerful as Serena Williams is willing to say she felt like an inadequate mom, that she couldnt just brush it off, that it is totally normal for it to linger, then maybe someone else experiencing the same thing wont feel such despair.

Im here to say: if you are having a rough day or week  its OK  I am too!! Serena wrote. Theres always [tomorrow]!

At 36, Serena may not be the week-in-week-out force in tennis. She reached a Wimbledon final, but lost in a first round while winning just one game.

That didnt happen when she was younger, single and without child. Back then it was tennis, tennis, tennis.

Now its so much more, though, for Olympia and her fans.

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A tiny Pomeranian has just won Halloween, and it's only August.

Just a hat and coat is all Instagram star Bertram needed to pull off one perfect rendition of polite adventurer and duffle raincoat fan Paddington Bear, and by gum, it's perfect.

Look at the little hat. The little coat! Its little nose. Its unquenchable sense of adventure, and potentially endless capacity for getting into trouble!

Whether, like Paddington, Bertram has a love of marmalade sandwiches, we're not sure.

As well as representing one of the most adorable characters in our lives to date, Bertram's made a solid choice for a timely Halloween costume, seeing as though in January 2018, Paddington 2 snatched a new record for the best-reviewed film of all time on Rotten Tomatoes.

SEE ALSO: Here are pictures of fluffy dogs we know you want

Bertram, an adorable rescue pup who dwells in New York City's The Hole art gallery, is usually a subtle dresser-upperer, with his owners filling his wardrobe with tiny ties, bowties, sun hats, and woollen knits, so the Paddington get-up seems a natural choice.

Check out his tiny, tiny polo shirts.

And tiny bowties!

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And flower crowns! I'll stop.
SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Singapore has started scanning travellers' eyes at some of its border checkpoints, its immigration authority said on Monday, in a trial of expensive technology that could one day replace fingerprint verification. It is the latest in a series of high-tech initiatives in the city-state, some of which have stoked privacy concerns among rights advocates, aimed at improving efficiency and security as the threat of militancy in the region has ratcheted up. Iris-scanning technology, which has been used in other countries like the United States and the United Kingdom with varying degrees of success, can cost five times more than existing fingerprint systems, according to experts. "The trials will help us in our consideration of whether and how we should implement such technology at our checkpoints," the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said in an emailed statement. The move will be implemented at two checkpoints on its northern border with Malaysia and one at a ferry terminal running services to nearby Indonesian islands. The ICA has been collecting iris images from Singaporean citizens and permanent residents when they apply for identity cards or a passport since January last year. Singapore's Changi Airport is considering using facial recognition systems to find late passengers and the country also plans to use facial recognition capabilities in a project to fit cameras and sensors on over 100,000 lampposts. Singapore's government says these measures are pragmatic ways to improve people's lives and safety and has pledged to be sensitive to privacy. The cosmopolitan financial hub says it has been the target of militant plots for years, some stemming from its Muslim-majority neighbors, and that it is a matter of 'when' and not 'if' militants will strike. (This version of the story has been refiled to correct agency name in fourth paragraph) (Reporting by Fathin Ungku; Editing by John Geddie and Simon Cameron-Moore)
The sale of the Brady Bunch house has had bigger plot twists than the endearing family show ever did.

The HGTV network has won the bidding on the house and will restore it to its 1970s glory, David Zaslav, the CEO of parent company Discovery Inc., announced Tuesday during the companys second-quarter earnings conference call.

More details to come over the next few months, but we will bring all the resources to bear to tell safe, fun stories with this beloved piece of American TV history, Zaslav added.

The house from The Brady Bunch  only the exterior was used in the show  was the target of major bidding war, and its new owner has been revealed as HGTV. (Photo: PG/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

That ends the mystery of who won the Brady Bunch house. The 2,500-square-foot home at 11222 Dilling St. in Studio City, Calif., which served as the exterior of the Bradys residence on the iconic TV show, was for sale, and former boybander Lance Bass, of NSync fame and an apparent Brady Bunch superfan, declared himself the winning bidder on Friday. He even shared with his Twitter followers his plans to make the interior  which was filmed on a studio set  match how it did on the series, which ran 1969 to 1974.

Super excited to announce they accepted my offer on the #BradyBunch house last night!!! This is going to be a fun project!  Lance Bass (@LanceBass) August 3, 2018

Real estate dealings are notoriously tricky (more often a headache), and apparently the deal wasnt final on the house, which was listed for $1.85 million, but saw bids in the $3 million range. A heartbroken Bass tweeted again to say that he lost his dream home due to what he was told were unforeseen circumstances  a studio that wanted the house at any cost swept in with a winning bid. Bass said he felt used by the sellers brokerage company, Douglas Elliman, to drive up the cost of the house, which was reportedly also bid on by Jonathan Scott from Property Brothers.

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With a heavy heart I post this  pic.twitter.com/sG8bBP142P  Lance Bass (@LanceBass) August 5, 2018

Lances real estate agent gave further explanation to TMZ, saying that all bids were to be submitted on Thursday at 3 p.m.  and no bids were to be accepted after that. Bass was deemed the highest bidder  giving his offer 5 minutes before bidding closed  and the sellers broker even sent paperwork to him to finalize the deal. However, a rep for Douglas Elliman told the website, Our fiduciary obligation is to the seller, who decided to go with the highest, most qualified buyer.

Lance Bass, pictured here in June, says he was told he was the highest bidder on the house and it was his. (Photo: Getty Images)

At first Bass was unhappy when it was revealed that HGTV is the big winner. He made clear his feelings when he wrote that he and the others bidding on the house were in it for the right reasons, shading the studios powerplay.

Thats the sad part. All the other individuals I know were bidding would have been great owners. They were in it for the right reasons.  Lance Bass (@LanceBass) August 5, 2018

It didnt take long for him to change his mind, as he explained in a tweet.

HGTV??! Aw man. Id be pretty upset if it were anyone else, but how can you be mad at HGTV?? My television is stuck on that channel. Kudos HGTV, I know you will do the right thing with the house. That was always my biggest worry. I can smile again.   Lance Bass (@LanceBass) August 7, 2018

And the network posted a nice response, giving the saga a happier ending.

Aww, thanks @LanceBass. Consider yourself officially part of the HGTV bunch! Yours truly, HGTV (aka The Lance Bass Fan Club) https://t.co/m09akz1ezq  HGTV (@hgtv) August 7, 2018

Meanwhile, HGTV is already celebrating the big news on social media. The network shared the first of several clues about what was to become of the house now that its a done deal. They promise something groovy. And somewhere Lance Bass is saying, HGTV! HGTV! HGTV!

Heres the story Guess who has a big project planned for this iconic 70s TV home? Watch for more clues, coming soon. pic.twitter.com/mgOqTeasRW  HGTV (@hgtv) August 7, 2018

Read more from Yahoo Entertainment:
By Denis Dumo JUBA (Reuters) - A peace deal in South Sudan has revived hope not just that the guns will stop firing but that economic stability can return. Since war broke out in 2013, tens of thousands of people have been killed, a third of the population has fled their homes and the economy, which depends on oil, has been ruined. On Sunday President Salva Kiir and his former vice president turned rebel leader Riek Machar signed a ceasefire and power-sharing agreement in the Sudanese capital Khartoum. Previous deals have failed to end the conflict and residents of the capital, Juba, said they are desperate for this one to succeed. "What people want is services. People want peace. People want their children to go to school. (They want) hospitals and security and clean water. These are things now citizens are hoping for from our leaders," John Kenyi, 30, a newspaper vendor in Juba, told Reuters. Sarah Duku, a 38-year-old mother of three, said: "We hope that the parties come back to South Sudan and implement it this time ...As the mothers of this country we need peace so that our economy can improve." Sudan's government on Sunday also said that oil would be pumped from South Sudan's Unity State through Sudan for export from Sept. 1. South Sudan gained independence in 2011 after a bitter struggle but just two years later conflict along ethnic lines erupted because of a dispute between Kiir and Machar. A 2015 peace deal briefly halted the fighting but fell apart after Machar returned to the capital the following year. Other such deals also failed. Kiir said last week the new peace mediated by Sudan and east African nations would hold because it was not imposed by outsiders and other deals had failed because of external pressure. Some smaller opposition groups say they doubt the new deal because it does not allocate power fairly. "The people are tired even if you call them you want to recruit them to go for war, they won't. So the leaders are left alone and there is nothing they can do except to sign peace," said James Okuk, a political analyst and lecturer based in Juba. (Writing by George Obulutsa; Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg)
Madrid (AFP) - Spain's conservative Popular Party (PP), freshly ousted from power over a series of corruption cases, has been hit by another scandal as new leader Pablo Casado stands accused of getting a Masters degree as a "gift."

The 37-year-old promised "regeneration" when he replaced Mariano Rajoy on July 21 as PP chief following the latter's ouster as prime minister in a no-confidence vote called over the corruption scandals affecting his party.

But a judge at a Madrid court believes he may be guilty of "bribery and misfeasance" for getting his diploma in regional law from the Spanish capital's King Juan Carlos University in 2009 without going to lectures or passing exams.

In a court document seen by AFP Tuesday, Judge Carmen Rodriguez-Medel says she found possible evidence of wrongdoing as she investigated the university and other students over degree irregularities.

She has asked the Supreme Court to probe Casado, the only tribunal able to do so given his special status as a lawmaker.

Casado has already admitted to not attending lectures to get his Masters, and according to the court document, said he got his diploma based on "work" he submitted.

But Rodriguez-Medel, who was unable to question Casado, said her investigations had found no trace at the university of any work.

She believes he received the Masters as a "gift," one of several to have allegedly benefited from this special favour.

The King Juan Carlos University is where Casado's fellow party colleague Cristina Cifuentes obtained the same diploma in dubious circumstances in what became known as the "mastergate" scandal.

Under fire for weeks, Cifuentes eventually resigned as president of the Madrid region in April when footage emerged of her allegedly shoplifting 40 euros ($46) worth of cosmetics.

Casado on Monday ruled out resigning and the PP lept to his defence.

"Innocent people must never resign," the PP's secretary general Teodoro Garcia told reporters on Tuesday.

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He said that Casado had "many of the documents that he later submitted," adding that under its regulations, the university destroys student paperwork after seven years.

Garcia also said he was "surprised" that members of the ruling Socialist party who had "faked" their CV were not being probed.

He pointed to Jose Manuel Franco, secretary-general of the Socialist party in Madrid, who in April admitted an "irregularity" in his CV, having written he had a degree in maths when he never did.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP)  In blistering and aggressive questioning aimed at undermining the credibility of the government's star witness, a defense lawyer accused the protege of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort of being immersed in "so many lies" he can't remember them all and demanded to know how a jury could possibly trust him.

Defense lawyer Kevin Downing began his cross-examination of longtime Manafort deputy Rick Gates by confronting him on his own lies to special counsel Robert Mueller's investigators, an extramarital affair and hundreds of thousands of dollars he admitted to embezzling from his former boss.

Downing also ventured into territory the two sides in Manafort's fraud trial have mostly avoided: discussion of Donald Trump's presidential campaign. The charges are not related to Manafort's work with the Trump campaign.

The questioning was aimed at shifting blame from Manafort onto Gates, a fellow Trump campaign aide who pleaded guilty in Mueller's investigation and agreed to cooperate with investigators by testifying in the financial fraud trial.

"After all the lies you've told and the fraud you've committed, you expect this jury to believe you?" Downing asked incredulously.

Gates said he did, but the defense lawyer wasn't satisfied. He scoffed at the idea that Gates had repented for his actions, noting that prosecutors have said they won't oppose his bid for probation and getting him to acknowledge he had not repaid the money he had taken from Manafort.

After Gates described his theft as "unauthorized transactions" instead of embezzlement, Downing prodded him to use the latter term  and Gates ultimately relented, saying, "It was embezzlement from Mr. Manafort."

Prosecutors had braced for the tough questioning by getting Gates to come clean about his own crimes. He told jurors how he disguised millions of dollars in foreign income as loans in order to lower Manafort's tax bill. Gates recounted how he and Manafort used more than a dozen offshore shell companies and bank accounts in Cyprus to funnel the money, all while concealing the accounts and the income from the IRS.

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But the grilling got more intense, and personal, Tuesday afternoon when Downing pressed Gates about a "secret life" he said was funded by embezzlement, including an extramarital affair that Gates himself acknowledged. Gates also said he may have submitted personal expenses for reimbursement by Trump's inaugural committee, which he helped operate.

After Gates struggled to recall precisely what he had told Mueller's team, Downing asked if he had been confronted with "so many lies" that he can't keep his story straight.

Downing at one point asked whether Mueller's investigators had interviewed Gates about his role in the campaign, prompting an objection from prosecutors and a sidebar conference with U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III. The defense moved on. Both sides have agreed to limit discussion of the campaign to avoid prejudicing the jury, though they did permit testimony about the overlap of a bank loan with Manafort's role in the Trump election effort.

Gates implicated himself in broad criminal conduct on the stand, an apparent strategic decision by prosecutors to take some of the steam out of defense questioning. He told jurors he embezzled from Manafort by filing false expense reports. He also said he committed credit card and mortgage fraud, falsified a letter for a colleague involved in an investment deal and made false statements in a deposition at Manafort's direction.

Prosecutors summoned Gates to give jurors the first-hand account of a co-conspirator they say helped Manafort carry out an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and bank fraud scheme. Gates testified that he and Manafort knew they were committing crimes for years, saying they had stashed money in foreign bank accounts and falsified bank loan documents.

"In Cyprus, they were documented as loans. In reality, it was basically money moving between accounts," Gates said.

Manafort and Gates were the first two people indicted in Mueller's investigation into potential ties between Russia and the Trump campaign. Gates pleaded guilty months later and agreed to cooperate in Mueller's investigation of Manafort, the only American charged by the special counsel to opt for trial instead of a guilty plea.

The case has little to do with either man's work for the Trump campaign and there's been no discussion during the trial about whether the Trump election effort coordinated with Russia  the central question Mueller's team has tried to answer. But Trump has shown interest in the proceedings, tweeting support for Manafort.

On Tuesday, Gates did connect one part of the bank fraud charges against Manafort to his role in the Trump campaign.

He said Manafort asked for tickets to Trump's inauguration so he could give them to a banker involved in approving a loan at the center of his financial fraud trial. Gates also said Manafort floated banker Stephen Calk's name for consideration as Secretary of the Army, a post he ultimately did not get. The email exchange occurred after Manafort left the Trump campaign but while Gates was active on the Trump inauguration committee.

Gates described to jurors how he repeatedly submitted fake financial documents at Manafort's behest as his former boss became concerned he was paying too much in taxes and, later, that his funds were drying up.

"WTF," Manafort wrote to Gates in one 2015 email shown to the jury. "How could I be blindsided like this. You told me you were on top of this. We need to discuss options. This is a disaster."

In other testimony, Gates recounted how he converted a PDF of a profit-and-loss statement to a Microsoft Word document so he could doctor it to inflate the business' income. Gates also fabricated a forgiveness letter for what he said was already a fake loan between Manafort's consulting company and a Cypriot entity he controlled.

Prosecutor Greg Andres pointed out he had created a "loan forgiveness letter between Mr. Manafort and Mr. Manafort."

"Yes," Gates agreed.

During the testimony, Manafort did not stare Gates down as he did Monday. When the trial broke for lunch, Manafort looked back at his wife, sitting in the front row, smiled and winked at her, followed by a quick shake of his head, seeming to indicate he was unfazed by the morning's testimony.

___

Associated Press writer Stephen Braun contributed to this report.
By Sarah N. Lynch, Nathan Layne and Karen Freifeld ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Reuters) - The star witness in the trial against former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort faced tough questioning on cross-examination on Tuesday about a "secret life" that included an extramarital affair and stealing funds from his former boss. Rick Gates, who served as a right-hand man to Manafort in his political consulting business for a decade, acknowledged maintaining a flat in London for the affair, inflating expense reports and a long list of other misdeeds. "In essence, I was living beyond my means," Gates testified. "I'm taking responsibility for it. I made a mistake." Gates, who is cooperating with U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. election, testified on Monday that he helped Manafort doctor financial statements, hide foreign income and evade hundreds of thousands of dollars in U.S. income taxes. Under questioning by defense attorney Kevin Downing on Tuesday, Gates acknowledged writing a fraudulent letter to prospective investors in a movie project and possibly submitting personal expenses to Trump's inaugural committee for reimbursement. Gates also worked on the campaign. Downing sought to portray Gates as an inveterate liar, raising questions about whether he has been truthful with Mueller even when he cut a plea deal in February in which he admitted to lying to investigators and conspiring to defraud the United States. "After all the lies you told you expect this jury to believe you?" Downing asked Gates, who responded that he did. "I'm here to tell the truth," Gates shot back. "Mr. Manafort had the same path. I'm here." Undercutting Gates' credibility is the foundation of Manafort's defense. Manafort, 69, has pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of bank fraud, tax fraud and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts containing tens of millions of dollars earned from work for Russian-backed politicians in Ukraine. The charges in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, largely predate the five months Manafort spent on Trump's campaign. On Monday and earlier Tuesday, Gates testified that he and Manafort had engaged in numerous improper financial maneuvers involving their work in Ukraine, but Gates, 46, pinned the responsibility on Manafort. When it was his turn for questioning, Downing accused Gates of having a "separate, secret life" with his lover in London and of using business expenses to pay for the affair, including an apartment in the British capital. "There is a period of time over 10 years ago when I had a relationship, yes," Gates said. He also acknowledged writing a fraudulent letter to prospective investors for a movie project involving Steve Brown, a business associate. "You committed fraud with Mr. Brown as a favor?" Downing asked him. Gates replied: "I did. I admit to that." Manafort's trial is the first on charges brought by Mueller's office. While outside the scope of the trial, Mueller is also investigating whether Trump campaign members coordinated with Russian officials, an allegation President Donald Trump denies. Gates pleaded guilty to lying to investigators and conspiring to defraud the United States. Questioned by prosecutors earlier on Tuesday, Gates testified that Manafort instructed him not to tell their firm's bookkeeper about payments from accounts in Cyprus that held millions of dollars in earnings from consulting work for pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine. There were hundreds of emails showing Manafort approved payments out of the Cypriot accounts, he said. Gates' testimony was part of the prosecution's effort to prove that Manafort was responsible for financial maneuverings that he and other witnesses have testified include filing false tax returns and failing to report foreign bank accounts. One part of Gates' testimony led to some laughter in the courtroom. "Not happy. I just saw this. WTF," Manafort wrote to Gates in an email entered into evidence showing Manafort's reaction when he learned how much money he would have to pay in 2014 taxes. Gates said that he helped create documents to convert some income to a loan to lower Manafort's tax bill. "You created a loan agreement for a loan that didnt exist? prosecutor Greg Andres asked him. "Yes, we did," he replied. He testified about a complex scheme in which earnings from Manafort's political work in Ukraine would be paid by Ukrainian businessmen using companies in Cyprus to other Cyprus-based companies controlled by Manafort. Prosecutors showed contracts laying out that Manafort would be paid $4 million a year in quarterly installments of $1 million, all channeled through Cyprus. The funds were logged as loans in order to meet later audits in Cyprus that required documentation of transfers between bank accounts, but Gates testified they were in fact compensation to Manafort. "A lot of these loan agreements are backdated," Gates said. Money from the Ukraine work dried up after pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych was forced from power in 2014, Gates testified. A $1 million payment for work in 2014 was "significantly past due" and "Mr. Manafort was quite upset the money had not been sent," Gates told the court. Manafort's Kiev-based aide Konstantin Kilimnik was able to collect $500,000, Gates said, but "to my knowledge it was never paid in full." Kilimnik was indicted in the Mueller investigation in June. (Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch, Nathan Layne and Karen Freifeld; Additional reporting by Lisa Lambert; Writing by Warren Strobel; Editing by Grant McCool and Lisa Shumaker)
WASHINGTON  The State Department made its first comments on the dispute between Saudi Arabia and Canada in a statement to HuffPost that signaled the U.S. will not take sides.

We are aware of Government of Saudi Arabias statement recalling the Saudi ambassador to Canada and expelling Canadas ambassador, a State Department official wrote in an email Monday afternoon. Canada and Saudi Arabia are both close allies of the United States. I refer you to the Canadian and Saudi Ministries of Foreign Affairs for further information.

Saudi Arabia is not, in fact, a treaty ally of the U.S.  though Canada, a member of NATO, is.

The spat began after Canada called on the Saudis last week to release two recently arrested human rights activists. On Sunday, Riyadh called the move a violation of its sovereignty and announced punitive measures, including ejecting the Canadian ambassador.

The Trump administration issued its first statement on the matter nearly 24 hours later. It chose not to endorse the Canadian position, even though Ottawa had already doubled down.

Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including womens rights and freedom of expression around the world, Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said in a statement released shortly before the U.S. comments. We will never hesitate to promote these values and we believe that this dialogue is critical to international diplomacy.

The mismatch between the strategies of the U.S. and its neighbor to the north suggests Washington has given the Saudis the green light to continue the quarrel, according to Roland Paris, a University of Ottawa professor and former adviser to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

The Trump Administration does not care about human rights in Saudi Arabia or about Canada. Hence this non-answer, Paris wrote on Twitter Monday. The Saudis know what this means. They have an opportunity to strike back at critics (even mild critics) of their human rights record.

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The kingdom is employing a range of tactics to pressure Canada to drop the issue. Saudi authorities say they have canceled future investment plans in the country  a largely symbolic move, since the Saudis are only a middling player in the economy of Canada, itself a huge oil producer  and will relocate thousands of Saudi students studying there on government scholarships.

But rights groups and officials in some other countries are standing with Trudeaus government. Lawmakers in the European Parliament are hoping to secure a statement of support from top European Union foreign policy official Federica Mogherini.

The world cannot continue to look the other way as this relentless persecution of human rights defenders in Saudi Arabia continues, Samah Hadid of Amnesty International said in a Monday press release. It is now time for other governments to join Canada in increasing the pressure on Saudi Arabia to release all prisoners of conscience immediately and unconditionally, and end the crackdown on freedom of expression in the country.

Asked about the U.S. position on the jailed activists, the State Department official said America will encourage the Saudis to uphold international standards on human rights.

The United States supports respect for internationally recognized freedoms and individual liberties including dissent and due process, the official wrote. We have asked the Government of Saudi Arabia for additional information on the detention of several activists. We continue to encourage the Government of Saudi Arabia to respect due process and to publicize information on the status of legal cases. We address these broad concerns in our annual Human Rights Report.

The official did not respond to a question about whether Saudi Arabia had given the U.S. advance notice of its actions against Canada.

This story has been updated throughout.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP)  Florida school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz told a detective that a demon in his head  "the evil side"  told him to burn, kill and destroy, and that he thought about going to a park to kill people about a week before 17 people were gunned down at the school, according to a transcript of his interrogation released Monday.

During the more than 11 hours of questioning by Broward sheriff's Detective John Curcio, Cruz usually answered in short sentences or nodded yes or no, speaking so softly that the detective repeatedly told him to speak up. Twice when Curcio left the room, Cruz, 19, cursed at himself and said that he wanted to die, he deserved to die.

"You're nothin'," Cruz told himself, followed by cursing.

The interrogation will be pored over by prosecutors and defense attorneys if Cruz attempts an insanity defense or for mitigating factors if he is convicted and faces the death penalty. Cruz's attorneys have said he would plead guilty in exchange for a sentence of life without parole.

Prosecutors released the 216-page, heavily redacted transcript of Cruz's post-shooting statement after a judge ruled last month that nonconfession portions should be made public. The interrogation began about four hours after the Feb. 14 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland and about 2 hours after Cruz was captured as he walked down a nearby street.

The Associated Press and other media had sought the statement's release under Florida's broad public records laws. Cruz's attorneys had wanted it suppressed, saying its disclosure could hinder his right to a fair trial.

Cruz's statements about the shooting are blacked out, but the transcript is otherwise wide-ranging, dealing with the death of Cruz's parents, his penchant for killing animals, his former girlfriend, his brother, guns, suicide attempts and, especially, the voice. He told Curcio the voice appeared after his father died about 15 years ago but got worse after his mother died of pneumonia in November.

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Cruz described the voice as a male, about his age, and said the only person he ever told about it was his brother.

Curcio asked what the voice told him.

"Burn. Kill. Destroy," Cruz responded.

"Burn, kill, destroy what?" the detective asked.

"Anything," Cruz responded.

He told Curcio that he had to fight the voice from taking over, that it was always bad. Curcio questioned that, asking how it could always be bad if Cruz had held down a job at a discount store for two years.

"The voice is in here," he said, apparently pointing to his head. "And then it's me. It's just regular me trying to be a good person." Curcio said everyone has a good and bad side.

"Do they really?" Cruz said.

He said the voice tried to get him to shoot people at a park a week earlier. Or maybe it was three. Cruz couldn't remember exactly, but he didn't want to do it. Curcio asked why he didn't.

"I ... I don't know," he said.

Cruz told Curcio he wanted to join the Army to be a Ranger but he failed the written exam "because I was stupid."

Cruz said he bought the AR-15 allegedly used in the shooting a year before because it was "cool looking" and "to feel safe." He said he bought other guns but fired them only twice, both times into the cement floor of his mother's garage.

"It didn't bounce all over hell and creation?" Curcio asked. No, Cruz replied, saying the bullets embedded in the concrete.

Cruz said he tried to kill himself with an over-the-counter pain reliever after his mom died and years earlier had tried to drink himself to death because he was lonely.

"You don't have a lot of friends?" Curcio asked.

"No." Cruz said he goes fishing with the demon.

Curcio told Cruz he doesn't believe the voice exists, but Cruz insisted it was there and said he wanted to see a psychiatrist.

At the end of the interrogation, the detective let Cruz's 18-year-old brother into the room.

"You  your  people think you're a monster now," Zachary Cruz told him.

"A monster?" Cruz responded.

"You're not acting like yourself. Like, why? Like, we've ... this is not who you are. Like, come on. Why did you do this? This is ... don't even laugh at me," Zachary Cruz said.

"I'm sorry, dude," Nikolas Cruz replied.
(NEW YORK)  A man who jumped out of a freezer and threatened employees with a knife at a New York City brunch spot and then died was a suspected cold-case killer who had just been released from jail in Boston, authorities revealed on Monday.

Carlton Henderson screamed Away from me, Satan! as he rushed out of the walk-in freezer at Sarabeths on Manhattans Upper West Side Sunday morning, police said. Kitchen employees stripped away the knife and took him to the floor, police said, and he went into cardiac arrest.

Henderson was facing murder charges in the 1988 shooting deaths of 26-year-old William Medina and 22-year-old Antonio Dos Reis.

Henderson, 54, of Cave Creek, Arizona, got out of jail last Wednesday when a judge threw out key evidence in the pending double-murder case and ordered him released on his own recognizance.

Judge Janet Sanders said Hendersons 1993 statements suggesting his involvement in the 1988 killings were inadmissible because he and investigators had an understanding that they couldnt be used against him.

Henderson was looking to trade the information for a reduction in his 15-year prison sentence on drug and gun charges, Sanders wrote, and investigators treated him as a cooperating witness  not a target or a suspect  in his 55 hours of questioning.

Prosecutors argued such an informal immunity agreement, known as a proffer, would have been made in writing and no corroborating paperwork has been found.

Police arrested Henderson in St. Louis, Missouri, in June 2017 after bullets from the Boston killings were matched to a gun recovered in a fatal shooting in Miami in 1993.
Gao (Mali) (AFP) - The first round of voting in Mali's presidential election gave outgoing President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita a conclusive lead over his rival -- but unresolved anger and finger-pointing over the results have highlighted some of the country's divisions.

Eighteen of the 24 candidates in the election joined forces Monday to demand the resignation of the minister of territorial administration and decentralisation, Mohamed Ag Erlaf.

They accused him of being to blame for an "electoral robbery" and urged people in the capital Bamako to rally on Tuesday.

Keita won 41.42 percent of votes in the July 29 presidential poll in the sprawling west African nation, easily ahead of opposition leader Soumaila Cisse, in second place with 17.8 percent.

They will face each other in a runoff vote next Sunday.

Sources in Cisse's entourage on Sunday said they had filed a case at the Constitutional Court over alleged "ballot-box stuffing, breach of electoral law and irregularities".

Two other opposition candidates, businessman Aliou Boubacar Diallo and former prime minister Cheick Modibo Diarra, who came in third and fourth place, have also turned to the court.

In the north and centre of the country -- shaken by jihadist violence and lawlessness -- ethnic tension has been sharpened by the vote.

The northern town of Gao, along with Timbuktu and Kidal, were captured by the largely Tuareg Azawad liberation movement (MNLA) and jihadist rebels in an uprising in March 2012.

The Islamists took the ascendancy and started to impose strict sharia law in the territory known as Azawad, but French military ground and air forces intervened and routed the rebels in the first five months of 2013.

- Ballot-stuffing accusations -

But the insurgency remains undefeated, and lawlessness abounds.

"It's in the areas where there is no security that you hear that IBK has stolen votes. In those places, the heads of the polling stations took ballot boxes and filled them for IBK," said Abdoulmajid Agagrossi, an unemployed electrician of 23, referring to Keita by his initials.

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"This is total fraud," businessman Mohammed Toure asserted in Gao while he drank tea with a group of friends.

"In one constituency, they had 9,772 votes for IBK and just one for Cisse -- but there were only 9,000 registered voters."

The institutions of state are largely absent in the region, and armed groups, mostly Tuaregs, who signed a 2015 peace agreement with the government, are taking part in security during the presidential election.

Some Gao residents charge that the presidential party cut a deal with the armed groups to rig the vote.

"You hear that everywhere in town," said an official with the UN mission MINUSMA, asking not to be named and unable to confirm any challenge to the vote results.

Last March, authorities imposed a week-long curfew throughout Gao following deadly clashes between ethnic Arabs and the Songhai community.

Alassane Maiga, a 45-year-old teacher from Gao, said that "ballot-stuffing in the nomad areas" was chronic.

And he has no doubt about the culprits: what he calls the "light-skinned ones" -- Tuareg and Arab peoples, traditionally roaming tribes of the Sahara, whom he also blames for violence, but cannot provide details.

More than 700 polling stations across the country were unable to open because of violent incidents.

The government released the results at national level, but "has no intention at all of publishing them in detail, constituency by constituency," a source close to the ministry told AFP, ignoring calls by the opposition and international observers for "transparency".
By Khalil Ashawi AL-SURMAN VILLAGE, Syria (Reuters) - The red Turkish flag fluttering on the outskirts of the Syrian village of al-Surman has been seen by residents as a shield against government attack since Turkish troops arrived in February. But their fears of an offensive are growing. The village is situated in rebel-held territory near the frontline with government forces in the northwestern Idlib region, one of the last big strongholds of the opposition to President Bashar al-Assad. The seven-year-long conflict may be about to pivot again to the northwest now that Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, has crushed the rebellion across much of the rest of the country. Assad has indicated Idlib could be his next target. The entire population of al-Surman fled the village in January during the last big government attack in the area. Some came back when the bombardment stopped. But most only returned once the Turks arrived to set up an observation post at its grain silos under an agreement between Turkey, Russia and Iran. "Protection comes firstly from God, and after that it's up to the Turks," said Mohammad al-Youssef, 33, a resident of the village 40 km (25 miles) southeast of Idlib city. Still, he says the Turkish presence offers only partial reassurance. "There is constant worry because there are no promises the regime won't advance," he said. Displaced Syrians have poured into Idlib from other parts of the country recovered by Assad. The possibility of an Idlib offensive has drawn warnings of yet another humanitarian catastrophe in a war that has killed hundreds of thousands of people and driven 11 million from their homes. The United Nations has warned that up to 2.5 million people could flee toward the Turkish border in such a scenario. This possibility is sounding alarm bells in Turkey, which is already hosting 3.5 million Syrian refugees and fears a government offensive would drive yet more over its border. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan is pressing his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin over the issue, and has said Turkey - with NATO's second-biggest army - cannot accept an offensive in Idlib. HOPING FOR MORE TURKISH FORCES Near al-Surman, thousands of people uprooted by the January offensive are still living in tents in olive and fig groves. The local economy has ground to a halt in anticipation of an offensive. Factories known for the production of woven plastic mats have shut down and home repairs are being postponed. "People are saying we will keep our money for the days to come, in case we are displaced," Youssef said. Turkish forces have deployed at 12 observation posts in the Idlib region under the agreement reached with Russia and Iran in the Kazakh capital of Astana. Under this agreement, Idlib is considered a "de-escalation" zone. Erdogan has said the Astana accord could be destroyed if the government attacks. The people in al-Surman are aware that their fate may hinge on international diplomacy. It gives them little comfort. "We are awaiting conferences in the coming weeks to know Idlib's fate," said Khaled Daimes, 33, a factory owner. "We can only feel at ease when the guarantees come from the Turks," he said. "I hope to see the Turks in the village square." He wants to see Turkish forces deploy into Idlib in the same kind of numbers they have sent into areas north of Aleppo. There, Turkey has carved out a de facto buffer zone outside any stated agreements with Russia or Iran. Assad views the Turks as illegal occupiers and has vowed to recover "every inch" of Syria. Russia's priorities, particularly its relationship with Turkey, are key to determining Idlib's fate, analysts say. Rebel commanders believe an offensive inevitable. This assessment has been hardened by the recent campaign in the southwestern region near Israel and Jordan, recovered by the government in a Russian-backed assault in a matter of weeks. That region had also been declared a de-escalation zone in an agreement between the United States and Russia. The commander of the rebel group Ahrar al-Sharqia said he was 90 percent certain that the government would attack Idlib once its offensive in the southwest is finished. "We are working to prepare our fighters," the commander, Abu Hatem Shaqra, said. Asked whether Turkey would stand by rebels in the event of an attack, he said: "I can't answer this question clearly. On one level, the Turkish brothers have many statements that Idlib is a red line. But on the ground nothing is clear." (Writing by Tom Perry; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
Author provided

Taiwanese citizens have been travelling to airports with feelings of nervous trepidation recently. The question preying on their minds: will their passports be accepted as valid travel documents?

Concerns were first aroused by a message that appeared on several social media platforms. It claimed that a Taiwanese national was unable to board an Air Canada flight because the airline would not accept his passport in accordance with new Chinese regulations.

Due to Chinas request, the post read, Taiwan is no longer listed as an individual country, passports are invalid, and another ID must be used. Please remember your IDs.

Although this message was later dismissed by the Taiwanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs as misinformation, the wave of panic that it unleashed is not without reason or precedent. Since the Chinese civil war of 1949, the people of Taiwan have argued that they belong to a sovereign state that is clearly distinct from the Chinese mainland. But China refutes this notion, viewing the island as little more than a wayward province that must be brought back under its authority.

These competing geopolitical visions have resulted in numerous efforts by Beijing to delegitimise Taiwanese claims to independence, such as attempts to stop the flying of the Taiwanese flag and filing protests against national military drills. In recent months, however, China has struck upon an alternative approach: questioning how international airlines refer to Taiwan, and indeed if they should even refer to it at all.

Whats in a name?

On April 25, a letter from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) landed on the desks of 36 international air carriers. In it, the CAAC reminded readers that on February 27 the Chinese government had instructed airlines to review their websites, and remove any material that mistakenly identified Taiwan, Macau and Hong Kong as independent regions.

The letter also instructed that Taiwan should henceforth be referred to as Chinese Taiwan or Taiwan: province/region of China. Failure to implement these changes, it went on to state, would result in disciplinary actions by the CAAC.

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Somewhat unsurprisingly, these demands were not warmly received. Leading the cries of protest was the US president, Donald Trump. In a strongly worded statement released on May 5, the Trump administration lambasted the CAACs letter as a blatant attempt to enforce Chinese political correctness as a global standard. The statement said:

This is Orwellian nonsense and part of a growing trend by the Chinese Communist Party to impose its political views on American citizens and private companies. Chinas internal Internet repression is world famous. Chinas efforts to export its censorship and political correctness to Americans and the rest of the free world will be resisted.

The message from the White House was abundantly clear  the affected airlines should stand firm.

Author provided

Yet the vast majority of air carriers have chosen to bow to Chinese pressure rather than heed the US presidents words. In early June, the chief executive of Qantas, Alan Joyce, announced that the airline would be altering how it referred to Taiwanese airports as soon as possible. And after Beijing set a final deadline of July 25 and rejected pleas for further negotiations, the three largest US air carriers  Delta, United and American Airlines  also elected to meet the CAACs demands.

The US State Department later expressed its concern about this decision, while the Taiwanese government responded with a press release condemning Chinas crude attempts to coerce foreign airlines to downgrade Taiwans status.

Consequences

The long-term ramifications of international airlines choosing to comply with the CAACs requirements remain to be seen. It is clear, however, that this episode marks a significant defeat for advocates of Taiwanese independence. When next booking a flight to the island, users of some airlines will not be able to select a destination name that reflects Taiwans self-ruled status. Instead, they must choose one that places it firmly within Chinas geopolitical orbit.

The events of recent months have also provided Chinese authorities with an effective way to challenge Taiwans sovereignty without incurring the wrath of the international community. For all its early rhetoric, the Trump administration has been forced to watch helplessly as American carriers are arguably drafted as foot soldiers in support of Chinas territorial ambitions.

There are signs that this strategy is also already being deployed outside the airline industry. Earlier this year, the hotel chain, Marriot, was reprimanded by China after an email questionnaire listed Taiwan, Tibet, Hong Kong and Macau as separate countries. Japanese retailer Muji, meanwhile, had to pay a fine of 200,000 yuan (23,400) for using packaging that identified Taiwan as the country of origin.

The dispute over Taiwans territorial standing, then, has long since spread beyond a small area of the South China Sea  and it is likely to reach even greater heights in the future.

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.

The Conversation

Ed Bryan receives funding from Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge.
Rome (AFP) - The driver of a tanker truck that exploded sending a fireball across a busy motorway in Bologna was killed in the crash and 145 others injured, the Italian government said Tuesday.

The driver, Andrea Anzolin, who was transporting hazardous material, lost his life in the fiery accident Monday afternoon on the road to Bologna airport in northern Italy.

"The initial reconstruction of the event suggests that the incident was caused by the driver of the vehicle that was carrying liquified petroleum gas," Danilo Toninelli, minister for infrastructure and transport, told Italy's Senate Tuesday.

Toninelli added that of the 145 injured, 11 were military police officers at a nearby barracks.

The explosion -- which Toninelli says came four minutes after the tanker crashed into a lorry and burst into flames -- and searing heat from the blaze caused a section of the flyover where the crash took place to collapse onto another road below, leaving a huge crater.

"Given the dynamics of the accident and the potential consequences, we can say that we were lucky," Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said after meeting with the injured in Bologna on Tuesday.

The drivers of the two lorries involved in the crash were both hurt, but Toninelli did not comment on the extent of their injuries.

Italian media described Anzolin as an "expert driver" who had worked for many years in the transportation of flammable materials.

The prosecutor investigating the accident, Giuseppe Amato, told state broadcaster RAI that he believed it could have been caused by Anzolin dozing off at the wheel, but that it was "too early to say so with any certainty".

A video released by the police on Monday shows the tanker ploughing into the back of a lorry, not slowing down as it crashed into the trailer before immediately catching fire.

Another lorry then thumped into the back of the blazing tanker as traffic screeched to a halt.

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The three vehicles, covered by a blanket of smoke on an evacuated motorway, were reduced to little more than ash by the massive explosion that swept across the motorway and could be heard throughout the city.

Toninelli said that he wanted to reduce the number of vehicles transporting hazardous materials by road -- which he estimates to be around 35,000 -- and encourage the installation on those vehicles of technology that "reduces (the effects) of human error as much as possible".

"It can be found fairly commonly in new cars, and cannot not be equipped on these heavy goods vehicles that in every moment risk becoming moving bombs."
Stephanie Ray, 15, gives a final embrace to her boyfriend Blake Ward, 16, just before his life support is switched off. (Photo: Stephanie Ray/Facebook)

A heartbreaking photo of a teenage girl embracing her boyfriend in a hospital bed before his life support was switched off is going viral.

Stephanie Ray, 15, gave a heartfelt goodbye to Blake Ward, 16, who was tragically caught in a rip tide while swimming in the sea near his family home in Wales last Tuesday. He and two teenagers were rescued by the coast guard and flown to the hospital shortly thereafter.

Stephanie Ray with boyfriend Blake Ward who was tragically caught in a rip at sea in Wales last week. (Photo: Stephanie Ray/Facebook)

Doctors said Blake would never recover as his brain damage was too severe, so on Saturday the difficult decision was made to turn off his life support.

His girlfriend Stephanie shared on Facebook alongside the image that she couldnt bare to leave Blakes side in the days since the terrible accident.

Stephanie described her late boyfriend Blake as loving and caring. (Photo: Stephanie Ray/Facebook)

Today has been the hardest day for me and it will be a day I will never be able to forget, Stephanie wrote of saying goodbye to Blake.

She described him as a loving a caring person and would do anything for anyone, adding that Blake was someone special to me and we had something special and we will always have that.

Stephanie said Blake will forever be missed and described what the pair had as something special. Source: Stephanie Ray / Facebook

A GoFundMe, started by Blakes parents libbie and Steph, has raised $8,198 so far. The funds will go towards funeral costs.

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Evan Kitz-Miller, a 16-year-old high school student, died after attending the Lollapalooza festival in Chicago on Sunday night. The Lollapalooza music festival in Chicago has faced scorching heat and sent hundreds to the hospital in 2018: Jessica D'Onofrio / Twitter

A teenager who died after attending the Lollapalooza music festival in Chicago has been identified as Evan Kitz-Miller.

The 16-year-old was attending the popular annual festival in Grant Park on Sunday when he was found unresponsive and rushed to the Northwestern Memorial Hospital in critical condition. Temperatures were scorching in the park at the time of the incident, with at least 119 concertgoers being sent to the hospital within the festivals first three days.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the teens death.

Chicagos Office of Emergency Management and Communications confirmed Mr Kitz-Miller was attending the festival before his death in a statement, saying: The safety and security of festival attendees is our top priority.

We are saddened to learn that an individual transported from the event in critical condition last night due to a medical emergency has since passed away, the statement added. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time.

More than 300,000 visitors have attended the festival since it began on Friday, as temperatures reached above 32 degrees Celsius in Chicago over the weekend.

The festival encouraged visitors to stay hydrated on its website, advising people to visit CamelBak Hydration Stations for free, cool, filtered water. However, multiple concertgoers told NBC the park was uncomfortable due to the large crowds, suggesting that moving around could have been difficult.

Chicago police, which also did not immediately respond to enquiries, did not provide further details surrounding the teens death.

Mr Kitz-Miller was pronounced dead at the hospital nearly an hour after the incident, according to officials. He was from Mundelein, Chicago.

Lollapalooza 2018: 7 arrested, 119 hospitalized during first 3 days: https://t.co/VeI7gXwYuupic.twitter.com/auGMGLdkgu

 ABC 7 Chicago (@ABC7Chicago) August 5, 2018

In a statement, a spokesperson for the festival said they were saddened to learn of the death of an individual who attended Lollapalooza on Sunday.

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The individuals family and loved ones are in our thoughts during this difficult time, the spokesperson continued. We have no further information at this time.

At least seven people have also been arrested at this years Lollapalooza, a decrease from previous years.

Related Video: 11 Dead After Violent Weekend in Chicago

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Paris (AFP) - Even if humanity slashes greenhouse gas emissions in line with Paris climate treaty goals, the planet could overwhelm such efforts and irretrievably tip into a hellish 'hothouse' state, top scientists warned Monday.

Under such a scenario, Earth's average temperature would stabilise 4 or 5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, rather than the 1.5 C to 2 C (2.7 or 3.6 Fahrenheit) cap called for in the 196-nation pact.

As it is, the world is struggling to curb the manmade carbon pollution that -- with only one degree Celsius of warming so far -- amplifies the likelihood and intensity of deadly heatwaves, droughts and superstorms.

Simply put, climate change continues to outpace the transition to a green, clean global economy.

But that challenge will become exponentially more difficult if Earth itself gets into the act, the researchers reported in the US Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).

- Tipping points -

No less than ten distinct facets of what scientists call the Earth System could switch from neutral or helpful to harmful, eventually dumping more CO2 and methane into the atmosphere than all human activity combined.

Most have temperature "tipping points" beyond which the release of these planet-warming gases would be irreversible, at least on a human time scale.

"The feedback process becomes self-perpetuating after a critical threshold is crossed," the study said.

"The Earth System may be approaching a planetary threshold that could lock in a continuing, rapid pathway towards much hotter conditions -- Hothouse Earth."

- Weakened carbon 'sinks' -

Earth's forests and oceans have together absorbed more than half of carbon pollution over the last several decades, even as those emissions grew.

But forests are shrinking, and oceans are showing signs of CO2 saturation, according to recent studies.

These carbon sponges or 'sinks', in other words, may be weakening.

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- (Not so) permafrost -

Methane and CO2 trapped in the increasingly misnamed permafrost of Russia, Canada and northern Europe is roughly equivalent to 15 years of emissions at today's levels.

The release of these gases -- negligible so far -- would speed global warming and, in effect, hasten their own escape, what scientists call positive feedback.

Similarly, rock-like formations in shallow ocean waters called methane hydrates -- prime suspects for episodes of rapid global warming millions of years ago -- are also vulnerable to global warming, but at what threshold remains unknown.

- Forest 'dieback' -

Global warming of 3 C could condemn 40 percent of the Amazon forests to dieback, a process that would reach well into the next century, according to recent research.

Accidental or land-clearing fires -- not accounted for in these models -- could hasten this destruction.

In Canada, forests that gained CO2-absorbing biomass for most of the 20th century began to lose it around 1970, due mainly to climate-related insect infestations and fires.

Taken together, these forest dieoffs would release billions of tons of carbon into the air.

- Less snow = more heat -

Dramatically shrinking polar sea ice, especially in the Arctic, means the deep blue ocean water that takes its place absorbs as much of the Sun's radiative force -- about 80 percent -- as was reflected back into space by snow's mirror-like surface.

The Arctic's will likely see its first ice-free summer before mid-century, and -- in a 2C world -- could be that way one-in-four years.

Over the last four decades, minimum sea ice extent has dropped by about 40 percent.

- Ice sheets, sea level -

Experts disagree on how much global warming it will take to condemn the West Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets and how quickly they would melt, but all agree that such a tipping point exists, with estimates ranging from 1 C to 3 C.

The consequences for humankind would be catastrophic: Two-thirds of the world's megacities are less than 10 metres about sea level, and is much of the agricultural land that feeds them.

Together, West Antarctica's and Greenland's frozen reservoirs would lift ocean by 13 metres.

Another 12 metres of potential sea level rise is locked in parts of the East Antarctic Ice Sheet that are far more susceptible to climate change than once thought.

- Cascading dominoes -

All of these processes are interconnected, the authors note, and the collapse of one could trigger another.

"The risk of tipping cascades could be significant at a 2 C temperature rise, and could increase sharply beyond that point."

"This cascade of events may tip the entire Earth system into a new mode of operation," said co-author Hans Joachim Schellnhuber, Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research. The "carrying capacity" of a 4 C or 5 C degree world, he has said previously, could drop to a billion people.
BANGKOK (Reuters) - Businesses in Thailand's southwestern Petchaburi province blocked doors with sandbags and bricks against possible flooding on Tuesday as heavy rains threatened to cause a dam to overflow. Rain storms are forecast through coming days, and the head of Thailand's military government warned that evacuation plans might need to be set in place. "Many areas might need to have an evacuation plan in place," Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha told reporters as he prepared to visit the province, some 168 km (104 miles) southwest of Bangkok, on Wednesday. "Any homes downstream must be prepared to evacuate to higher ground," he added. Thailand suffered its worst floods in half a century in 2011. The floods killed more than 900 people, crippled industry and dented economic growth. Officials in Petchaburi said they were confident that water levels at the Kaeng Krachan Dam and any water run-off could be managed. "Four districts could be affected ... The governor and local administration are preparing sandbags and water pumps," Interior Minister Anupong Paochinda told reporters in Bangkok on Tuesday. Television news channels showed residents in Petchaburi laying sandbags and bricks in front of the doorways to shops and banks, and authorities intended to issue warnings to tourists visiting resorts on the Gulf of Thailand's coast. "Operators and resort owners are aware of the situation. We will send an alert to tourists," Tourism Minister Weerasak Kowsurat told reporters. The current rainy season has already caused havoc in neighboring Cambodia and Laos. In Laos, 31 people have been confirmed dead and 130 are still missing after a part of hydroelectric project in the southern province of Attapeu collapsed last month. The company building the dam has said heavy rain and flooding caused the collapse. Cambodia's National Disaster Management Center said flooding caused by rising water levels in the Mekong River has killed eight people and 5,000 families have been evacuated from across five provinces. (Reporting by Amy Sawitta Lefevre, Panu Wongcha-um, Pracha Hariraksapitak, Panarat Thepgumpanat and Tobias Wertime; Additional reporting by Prak Chan Thul in PHNOM PENH; Writing by Amy Sawitta Lefevre; Editing by Michael Perry and Simon Cameron-Moore)
WASHINGTON  Saudi Arabias steadily escalating spat with Canada over a routine statement about human rights abuses shows that the kingdom, a longtime partner of the U.S. and other Western countries, wants to be more aggressive and less flexible in the face of the international criticism it has faced for years. Thats not surprising under the hyper-nationalist and messaging-obsessed crown prince who now dominates the country  but its a big new dilemma for the governments that have spent years trying to balance the strategic relationship with their commitments to uphold fundamental rights internationally.

The Saudis are clearly trying to shift the goal posts, said Ned Price, a former White House spokesman under President Barack Obama who spent over a decade at the CIA. In prior years we would have been saying very much the same thing [about rights violations], and the Saudis would have grumbled under their breath. A fairly mild statement is being met with a pretty outlandish response.

Managing the public perception of the decades-old partnership between Saudi Arabia and liberal democracies, such as the U.S. and Canada, has never been easy. Western citizens dont like what they hear about Saudi Arabia  that women need a mans permission to travel or enroll in school, or that crimes are punished with amputations and beheadings. And international audiences question Americas complaints about authoritarianism in other countries, including Saudi nemesis Iran, because its chumminess with Riyadh suggests a double standard, making it look like those complaints are not rooted in a genuine belief that rights must be universal.

For officials and experts trying to sustain the bond because of its value in trade, counterterrorism cooperation and projecting U.S. influence globally, the ability to at least say something about excesses is vital  a tool that the kingdom has long understood the importance of and even sometimes reacted positively to. To lose even that option because the Saudis have now decided it violates their sovereignty makes justifying a Saudi-friendly foreign policy a lot harder. These are rhetorical demands. This is not sending a team of special operators to free political prisoners, Price said.

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Instead of minimal nudging, the Trump administration has now placed the U.S. in the position of explicitly blessing repression by mimicking the presidents very fine people on both sides thinking. The administration is not choosing sides in the dispute and sees the countries as both close allies, a State Department official told HuffPost. (Though, in response to a later question, the official noted that the U.S. would encourage the government of Saudi Arabia to respect due process.)

The substance of the dispute shows the extent of the change the Saudis feel empowered to seek.

On Aug. 2, Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said she was very alarmed that Saudi authorities jailed award-winning human rights activist Samar Badawi, and the next day, her department said it was gravely concerned about Badawi and scores of other activists recently placed behind bars. Both statements called for the dissidents to be released. Since Sunday, Saudi authorities have expelled Canadas ambassador, frozen future trade with the country and said they will relocate thousands of government-funded Saudi students at Canadian universities.

On March 8, 2012, Samar Badawi of Saudi Arabia was congratulated by first lady Michelle Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton as she received the 2012 International Women of Courage Award. Canada last week protested Badawi's jailing in Saudi Arabia. (Photo: JEWEL SAMAD via Getty Images)

This behavior is so unlike what we would have seen in Saudi Arabia before King Abdullah died ... there would have been no statement at all from the old Saudi Arabia, said Perry Cammack, an Obama-era State Department official, referring to the era before King Salman took the throne in 2016 and brought with him his son, now-Crown Prince Muhammed bin Salman.

There are precedents for harsh Saudi reactions to Western government condemnation. In 2015, Riyadh got Swedens business elite to successfully pressure its center-left government over a ministers complaint that the Saudi flogging of a blogger was medieval, and the kingdom slashed business with Germany earlier this year over a German official saying it treated neighboring Lebanon as a pawn. And Saudi columnist Mohammed Alsulami argued to HuffPost that his country had particular reasons to react to the Canadian comments because they demanded an action (releasing the activists) and addressed a domestic issue (rather than a regional one, such as President Donald Trumps December 2017 demand for Saudi humanitarian relief in Yemen).

But former U.S. officials are united in skepticism of the claim that this level of squabble was merited over Canadas use of the word concerned, a classic Western favorite to signal attention without major condemnation.

Theres nothing different or unique about the Canadian statements, Price told HuffPost. Its an insane, epic overreaction, former U.S. ambassador to Israel Daniel Shapiro wrote on Twitter.

Canada's Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland delivers her opening remarks at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations meeting in Singapore on Friday. Her comments the day before about the jailing of human rights activist Samar Badawi were met with harsh reaction from the Saudis. (Photo: ROSLAN RAHMAN via Getty Images)

To Price, whats different is the signaling from Washington under Trump, whos praised crackdowns and personally bashed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The former Obama aide is involved in a progressive advocacy group  hes got a perspective. Some Canadian analysts, however, publicly agree, particularly after the State Department remarks.

That sense of impunity suggests ramifications far beyond a dispute between two countries that dont have a huge amount to do with each other anyway. While the U.S. could easily adopt a tougher line under future administrations, per Price, the Saudi government will for the foreseeable future likely seek fresh ways to flex its muscles  continuing a trend of failing to learn from foreign policy misses that is worrying experts and investors.

There is a much deeper question about what this means for Saudi Arabias trajectory, Cammack said. This kind of impetuosity and overreaction in my mind doesnt necessarily bode well.

A pro-Saudi Twitter account shocked online observers of the fight on Monday by posting (and then soon deleting) a graphic that appeared to show a plane heading toward the Toronto skyline in a grim echo of the 9/11 attacks. Even more bizarre, and dramatic, consequences of the new attitude might lie ahead.

Related...

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Is Pushing His Country To The Brink. Will It Hold Together?

U.S. Politicians Can Afford To Grow A Spine On Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia Told The World Its Problem Was Islam. It's Actually Tyranny.

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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP)  Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak pleaded not guilty Wednesday to three new money-laundering charges related to the alleged multibillion-dollar looting of a state investment fund that led to his stunning electoral defeat three months ago. Najib spoke softly as he entered his plea in the High Court. He has previously accused Malaysia's new government of seeking political vengeance and vowed to clear his name in his trial. Najib, 65, had pleaded not guilty to abuse of power and three counts of criminal breach of trust last month. All of the charges against him involve the transfer of 42 million ringgit ($10.3 million) into his bank accounts from SRC International, a former unit of the 1MDB fund that international investigators say was looted of billions by Najib's associates.

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has pleaded not guilty to new money laundering charges related to the alleged multibillion-dollar looting of the 1MDB state investment fund. Najib spoke softly as he entered his plea in the High Court on Wednesday. Last month he pleaded not guilty to abuse of power and breach of trust charges. The charges involve the transfer of 42 million ringgit ($10.3 million) into his bank accounts from SRC International, a former unit of 1MDB, which international investigators say was looted of billions by Najib's associates. Each money-laundering count carries a penalty of up to 15 years in prison and a substantial fine

TANJUNG, Indonesia (AP)  The rescue team had done everything it could to locate the body of the man, who had been killed instantly when a massive earthquake collapsed his home Sunday night on the Indonesian island of Lombok. They used hacksaws to cut a square into concrete wall. They used crowbars and dogs and a power drill. But by Tuesday afternoon, with the unmistakable stench of rotting flesh in the air, they were sweating and at their wits' end. The body of 60-year-old Abdul Malik, one of at least 105 people killed in the 7.0-magnitude quake, would have to stay under the rubble for a third day.

Story continues

LADING-LADING, Indonesia (AP)  Soldiers have pulled a man alive from the rubble of a large mosque flattened by an earthquake on the Indonesian island of Lombok, while thousands of homeless villagers waited for aid Tuesday and stranded tourists camped at beaches and in the lobbies of damaged hotels. The north of Lombok has been devastated by the magnitude 7.0 quake that struck Sunday night, killing at least 105 people, seriously injuring more than 230 and destroying thousands of buildings. Two days after the quake, rescuers were still struggling to reach all the affected areas and authorities expected the death toll to rise.

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  A string of Taliban attacks in Afghanistan have killed 12 people, including four women who died in the crossfire during a shootout between insurgents and soldiers, while an errant NATO airstrike killed nine Afghan police, Afghan officials said Tuesday. The Taliban attacked a military checkpoint in the western Farah province, killing four troops and wounding six, according to Mohammad Naser Mehri, the provincial governor's spokesman. The attack in Bala Buluk district started late Monday night and lasted for several hours. Mehri said Afghan airstrikes killed 19 Taliban fighters and wounded 30. "The Taliban were pushed back and the situation is under control now," he said.

NANYANG, China (AP)  The 62-year-old Chinese shopkeeper had waited nearly his entire adult life to see his dream of building a church come true  a brick house with a sunny courtyard and spacious hall with room for 200 believers. But in March, about a dozen police officers and local officials suddenly showed up at the church on his property and made the frightened congregants disperse. They ordered that the cross, a painting of the Last Supper and Bible verse calligraphy be taken down. And they demanded that all services stop until each person, along with the church itself, was registered with the government, said the shopkeeper, Guo.

DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP)  A global human rights group on Tuesday accused Bangladesh's government of using abusive measures in handling student-led protests calling for safer roads. New York-based Human Rights Watch said in a statement that ruling party men armed with sticks and machetes have swooped in on the protesters and journalists since the students took to the streets on July 29 after two students were killed in a road accident in the nation's capital, Dhaka. Several journalists, including an Associated Press photographer, have been attacked. The government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has denied the allegations that its activists were involved, though reports and witnesses have given a different picture.

UNITED NATIONS (AP)  Bangladesh is accusing Myanmar of failing to tackle the concerns of over 1 million Rohingya Muslims who fled the country and is urging the U.N. Security Council to take action to ensure their safe return home. Bangladesh's U.N. ambassador, Masud Bin Momen, said in a letter to the council circulated Tuesday that while his government continues to engage with Myanmar "in good faith" on arrangements to return the Rohingya, "we regret that the necessary conditions for safe and sustainable return do not exist in Myanmar." "Nor has Myanmar taken any demonstrable effort to address the concerns of the Rohingyas and the international community," Momen said in the letter.

MANILA, Philippines (AP)  Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday threatened to kill corrupt police, including those accused of involvement in illegal drugs and other crimes, in an expletives-laden encounter on live TV. More than 100 policemen, many of them facing administrative and criminal complaints including rape, kidnapping and robbery, were escorted to the presidential palace to meet Duterte, police officials said. The national police, which Duterte once called "corrupt to the core," have been undergoing an internal cleansing since they were removed twice from the president's crackdown on illegal drugs last year due to reports of abuses. Duterte later allowed them to rejoin drug raids, partly because the small lead anti-narcotics agency lacks personnel and firepower to quell the drug menace.

TOKYO (AP)  A Tokyo medical school apologized Tuesday after an internal investigation confirmed that it altered entrance exam scores for years to limit the number of female students and ensure more men became doctors. Tokyo Medical University manipulated all entrance exam results starting in 2006 or even earlier, according to findings released by lawyers involved in the investigation, confirming recent reports in Japanese media. The school said the manipulation should not have occurred and would not in the future. It said it would consider retroactively admitting those who otherwise would have passed the exams, although it did not explain how it would do so.
Istanbul (AFP) - A senior Turkish diplomat is to lead a delegation to Washington for talks in the next days, state media said on Tuesday, as Ankara seeks to defuse a crisis with the United States that has pushed the lira to record lows.

Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal will travel to Washington for the talks, the state-run Anadolu news agency said. NTV television said he would be joined by officials from the justice and energy ministries.

The NATO allies have slapped reciprocal sanctions on two senior officials on both sides in the row over the detention in Turkey for almost two years of pastor Andrew Brunson.

The row is seen by analysts as one of the most severe between Turkey and the United States since the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 and comes on top of a host of other issues causing strain.

The tensions have pushed the already battered Turkish lira to new record lows, with the currency crashing some five percent against the dollar on Monday.

The lira has lost 15 percent against the dollar in the last month alone.

The Hurriyet newspaper reported that Turkey and the United States had reached a preliminary agreement over "certain issues" in the crisis and the details would be finalised in the delegation's visit.

There was no official confirmation that such an agreement existed.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu meanwhile held telephone talks with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Turkish media said, without giving further details.

But the reports helped the lira to rally slightly against the dollar, gaining 1.2 percent to trade at 5.3 lira to the dollar. Last week the lira had broken through 5 lira to the dollar for the first time as the sanctions were announced.

The US embassy in Ankara meanwhile issued an unusual statement dismissing as "unfounded and disturbing" reports in Turkish media which it said cited a US official as predicting the lira would hit 7 to the dollar.

"This is a fabricated and baseless lie," said the embassy.

"Despite the current tensions, the United States counts Turkey as a solid friend and ally. Our countries have a vibrant economic relationship," it added.

US investment bank Goldman Sachs earlier warned in a note that a further drop in the lira to 7.1 to the dollar "could largely erode" the excess capital of Turkish banks.
London (AFP) - British Prime Minister Theresa May backed calls Tuesday for her former foreign minister Boris Johnson to apologise for disparaging comments he made about Muslim women wearing burqas -- but he branded his critics "ridiculous".

May said his remarks "have clearly caused offence" and agreed with the chairman of her Conservative party, Brandon Lewis, who had asked Johnson to apologise.

"I do think that we all have to be very careful about the language and terms we use. And some of the terms Boris used describing people's appearance obviously have offended," the prime minister said.

"What's important is do we believe people should have the right to practise their religion and, in the case of women and the burqa and niqab, to choose how they dress."

In a column in Monday's Daily Telegraph newspaper, Johnson said women wearing the full face veil looked like "bank robbers" or "letter-boxes", prompting accusations of Islamophobia.

But the former top diplomat, who has a reputation for causing controversy and quit May's cabinet last month in protest at her Brexit plan, refused to back down.

"It is ridiculous that these views are being attacked - we must not fall into the trap of shutting down the debate on difficult issues," a source close to Johnson told reporters.

"We have to call it out. If we fail to speak up for liberal values then we are simply yielding ground to reactionaries and extremists."

- 'Dog-whistle tactics' -

In his article, Johnson said he opposed a ban on face-covering veils, but added that it was "absolutely ridiculous that people should choose to go around looking like letter-boxes".

His remarks drew condemnation from former colleagues.

Junior foreign minister Alistair Burt told the BBC: "I would never have made such a comment, I think there is a degree of offence in that, absolutely right."

Story continues

Conservative peer Sayeeda Warsi, a former party chairwoman, accused Johnson of adopting the "dog-whistle" tactics of right-wing firebrand Steve Bannon, US President Donald Trump's former top aide.

Johnson has been in direct communication with Bannon in recent months, according to media reports.

Warsi said Johnson was hoping to attract support from right-wing Conservatives for an eventual leadership bid, and called for an independent inquiry into Islamophobia in the party.

"It is crass and it must stop, and it must be condemned by the leadership right from the prime minister down."

But Johnson received support from some quarters, with Conservative MP Nadine Dorries saying he "did not go far enough".

"Any clothing a woman is forced to wear which hides both her beauty and her bruises should be banned and have no place in our liberal, progressive country," she said.
Jerod Mayo lashed out after police said a dog trainer admitted to hiding the dead body of his dog in a bag for weeks and lied about it. (AP)

Jerod Mayo and his family received sad, disturbing news Monday in the quest to find out what happened to their three-year-old English bulldog Knox.

Police: Dog trainer stashed body of Jerod Mayos dog

Police said that dog trainer Amelia Ferreira admitted to stashing the body of Mayos dog in a bag for weeks after Knox died at her house.

MUG SHOT: Amelia Ferreira is charged with obstruction in the case of former Patriot Jarod Mayo's missing dog Knox. Police say she admitted that the dog died at her house on 7/22 and she left the body in a bag pic.twitter.com/EmmZdKXsN0  WBZ | CBS Boston News (@wbz) August 6, 2018

The former New England Patriots linebacker who retired in 2015 after an eight-year NFL career responded to the news on Instagram and was understandably distraught.

Mayos family searched frantically for missing dog

Mayo described how his family conducted a desperate search for Knox that covered two states and involved scuba divers, private investigators and lawyers.

From Mayos statement:

ITs disgusting and inhumane that a company full of dog lovers would hide a family pet IN A CLOSET FOR TWO MONTHS and compulsively lie and send us on a wild goose hunt and our kids on an emotional rollercoaster. Staging him running away, him being stolen, even him drowning having us knocking on doors sending us false leads as we searched two states.

Mayo originally enlisted the help of fans to search for Knox in a June 29 Instagram post.

Mayo thanked the people that helped in their search for Knox on Monday and urged police to expand the obstruction charges against Ferreira over allegedly covering up the dogs death to include animal cruelty.

The Rhode Island SPCA anticipates that animal cruelty charges could be pending based on the results of the necropsy.

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The dispute between President Donald Trump and NBA star LeBron James got the Trevor Noah treatment on The Daily Show on Monday.

The president is beefing with LeBron, Noah said, noting that Trump tweeted about James after the basketball player criticized the president in an interview with Don Lemon.

Lebron James was just interviewed by the dumbest man on television, Don Lemon. He made Lebron look smart, which isnt easy to do. I like Mike!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 4, 2018

Noah pointed out that Trump has had disputes with U.S. Reps. Frederica Wilson, Maxine Waters and John Lewis, the Rev. Al Sharpton and NBA star Stephen Curry.

So once again, President Trump is feuding with a famous black person who dared to criticize him, Noah said. And now its got all this attention, which makes me wonder ...

What do I have to do? Why do you ignore me, Donald? Every night Im out here! We even wrote a book!

Then he held up the book, The Donald J. Trump Presidential Twitter Library, before adding, What do I have to do?

Check out the video above to see what Noah finds surprising about Trumps feud with King James.

Also on HuffPost

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
President Donald Trump is finally tweeting about the devastating wildfires in California, but what he has to say may not be adding anything meaningful to the discussion or to solutions on how to deal with the issue.

Beginning on Sunday, President Trump first suggested that environmental laws are to blame for making the California wildfires worse, but he didnt stop there. He also tweeted that water was foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean that could be used to fight the wildfires instead.

Trumps comments came after the administration declared the wildfires a major disaster, according to The New York Times. That means that federal funding can now be made available to residents of Shasta County, where the Carr Fire has destroyed homes, forced evacuations, and killed at least nine people, CBS News reports.

California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 5, 2018

Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water - Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 6, 2018

What Did Trump Tweet?

President Trump first tweeted about the situation on Sunday, and said, California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!

Story continues

He then added on Monday morning:

Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water - Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals.

But some experts say President Trumps view of the problem is incorrect, to say the least.

.@CAL_FIRE, again, responding to Trump's 2nd tweet about California diverting water to Pacific Ocean, hampering firefighting efforts: WE HAVE WATER-NOT THE ISSUE



"We have the ability to pull water from wherever we need using aircrafts-no idea where he's getting his information"  Brianna Sacks (@bri_sacks) August 6, 2018

How Did Experts Respond?

Daniel Berlant, assistant deputy director of Cal Fire, the states fire agency, said the state has plenty of water to fight these wildfires, and added, but lets be clear: Its our changing climate that is leading to more severe and destructive fires, according to The New York Times.

LeRoy Westerling, a UC Merced professor specializing in wildfire and climatology, told The San Francisco Chronicle on Monday that when it comes to Trumps tweets:

On the water side, it boggles the mind. We do manage all of our rivers in California, and all the water is allocated many times over. So Im not sure what he was recommendingEven if we eliminated all habitat for riparian species and fish, and allowed saltwater intrusion into the delta and set up a sprinkler system over the state, that wouldnt compensate for greater moisture loss from climate change.

The President has tweeted a lot of completely batshit beliefs, but California diverting vast supplies of water into the pacific ocean is definitely top five.  erinspace (@erinscafe) August 6, 2018

Peter Gleick, the president emeritus of the Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security in Oakland, told The Los Angeles Times that Trumps apparent claim that there isnt enough water to fight these fires because its being diverted, is the craziest thing in the worldTheres absolutely no shortage.

Fighting wildfires has to do with a lot more than just whether theres water to do it, and several experts say there is water in the first place, so these tweets and claims may actually be an example of one of Trumps favorite phrases: fake news.

Photos via Twitter (1, 2, 3, 4), Wikimedia Commons

More From Inverse
Donald Trump has attacked California's "environmental laws", blaming them for the recent deadly wildfires.

The president called for state governor Jerry Brown to allow the free flow of water he insisted was foolishly being diverted to the Pacific Ocean.

Mr Trump addressed the wildfire tragedy on Twitter by weighing in on what he perceives to be the issues that have magnified the fires.

California wildfires are being magnified [and] made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilised, he wrote. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!

Mr Trump went on to target his criticism at Mr Brown.

"Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean," he wrote. He added that water can be used for fires, farming and everything else.

Mr Trumps comments were met with public backlash on social media by people who expressed confusion over the presidents statement that readily available water has been diverted into the Pacific Ocean.

Scott McLean, a spokesperson for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection told The Independent that with bodies of water surrounding wildfires, access to water to battle the rapidly expanding fires has not been an issue.

So no, theres no water issues  theyre having no issues to access to water, he said.

LeRoy Westerling, a University of California Merced professor specialising in wildfires and climatology told the San Francisco Chronicle that Mr Trumps comments on the states diversion of water is mind boggling.

On the water side, it boggles the mind, he said. We do manage all of our rivers in California, and all the water is allocated many times over. So Im not sure what he was recommending.

He added: Even if we eliminated all habitat for riparian species and fish, and allowed saltwater intrusion into the delta and set up a sprinkler system over the state, that wouldnt compensate for greater moisture loss from climate change.

Story continues

The Medocino Complex Fire and the Carr Fire have destroyed more than 1,000 homes combined and forced thousands to flee. Officials have declared the Medocino Complex Fire as the second-largest wildfire recorded in the state, according to Reuters. The Carr Fire has claimed the lives of at least seven victims.

In response to Mr Trump's tweets, many have taken to Twitter to address the grave effects of climate change and scientific consensus that the Earth's climate is warming.

Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey responded to Mr Trump's statements addressing climate change in a post published to Twitter.

"Donald Trump can try to change the topic, but he wont be able to divert our attention away from the fact that the hotter, drier weather magnifying the California wildfires is linked to climate change," he wrote. "And it will keep getting worse as long as we fail to act."
By John Whitesides (Reuters) - President Donald Trump faces a test of his political influence on Tuesday in a special congressional election in Ohio that has become a referendum on his leadership and a last chance to gauge Democratic strength ahead of November's midterm elections. The Ohio race for a U.S. House of Representatives seat headlines a day of voting across the country that also features primaries in four other states. Other key contests include a Democratic battle for governor in Michigan between a progressive and a mainstream candidate and a high-profile conservative challenge to the incumbent Republican governor in Kansas. Trump charged into the Ohio race, the final special election before November. He visited the reliably Republican 12th Congressional District over the weekend to try to head off an upset after polls showed a tightening battle between Republican Troy Balderson and Democrat Danny O'Connor. The district, split between suburban Columbus and rural areas, has been represented by a Republican since the early 1980s. Trump carried it by 11 percentage points in the 2016 presidential race. But O'Connor has wiped out most or all of Balderson's lead in opinion polls, and a Democratic win would set off alarm bells for Republicans already worried by a series of strong performances in special elections by Democrats in the Trump era. "A month ago this race was flying under the radar, but it has become nationalized and become more of a referendum on Trump, which really generates Democratic enthusiasm," said Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute in New Jersey. A Monmouth poll last week showed the race was essentially a dead heat, down from a double-digit advantage for Balderson a month ago. In addition to more Democrats expressing high interest in the race, Murray said the shift was driven by independents unhappy with the status quo under Trump. Trump again pushed Balderson in an early morning tweet before voting began. Democrats must pick up 23 seats in the House and two seats in the U.S. Senate to gain control of those chambers and put a brake on Trump's agenda. All 435 House seats, 35 of 100 Senate seats and 36 of 50 governors' offices are up for grabs in the Nov. 6 contests. Other well-known Republicans also trekked to Ohio, including Vice President Mike Pence. A Republican advocacy group aired an ad featuring praise for Balderson, a state lawmaker, from Ohio Governor John Kasich, a frequent critic of Trump. Republicans have tried to paint O'Connor, a local county official, as a liberal who would follow House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi. But O'Connor has walked a more moderate line, saying he wants new party leadership in Congress and would work with Republicans, while also criticizing the Trump tax cut. Michigan, Missouri, Kansas and Washington also hold primaries on Tuesday. The Democratic race for governor in Michigan offers the next test of the electoral power of the party's progressive wing, with former Detroit health director Abdul El-Sayed vying to become the country's first Muslim governor against a more moderate Democrat, former state Senate leader Gretchen Whitmer. El-Sayed was endorsed by U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and campaigned recently with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the young democratic socialist whose shocking New York primary upset in June made her a movement star. In Kansas, Kris Kobach, a conservative prominent in the movement to restrict illegal immigration and pass more restrictive voting laws, is challenging Governor Jeff Colyer for the Republican gubernatorial nomination on Tuesday. Trump endorsed Kobach, Kansas' secretary of state, on Monday. Kobach was an immigration adviser to Trump's campaign in 2016 and was vice chairman of Trump's commission to investigate voting fraud before the panel collapsed. Kobach welcomed Trump's support and likened his race to that of the unorthodox president, whose 2016 White House victory stunned many in the Republican Party. "This is definitely an establishment insider incumbent versus an insurgent conservative," he told Fox News on Tuesday. (Reporting by John Whitesides; Editing by Colleen Jenkins, Cynthia Osterman and Jonathan Oatis)
By Babak Dehghanpisheh and Peter Graff BEIRUT/LONDON (Reuters) - Companies doing business with Iran will be barred from the United States, President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, as new U.S. sanctions took effect despite pleas from Washington's allies. Iran dismissed a last-minute offer from the Trump administration for talks, saying it could not negotiate while Washington had reneged on a 2015 deal to lift sanctions in return for curbs on Iran's nuclear program. Trump decided this year to pull out of the agreement, ignoring pleas from the other world powers that had co-sponsored the deal, including Washington's main European allies Britain, France and Germany, as well as Russia and China. European countries, hoping to persuade Tehran to continue to respect the deal, have promised to try to lessen the blow of sanctions and to urge their firms not to pull out. But that has proven difficult: European companies have quit Iran, arguing that they cannot risk their U.S. business. "These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level. Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!" Trump tweeted on Tuesday. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif criticized Trump's tweet as a tired cliche and denounced "US unilateralism." "And it is not the first time that a warmonger claims he is waging war for 'world peace'," Zarif tweeted. White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Monday Iran's only chance of escaping sanctions would be to take up an offer to negotiate with Trump for a tougher deal. "If the ayatollahs want to get out from under the squeeze, they should come and sit down. The pressure will not relent while the negotiations go on," Bolton, one of the administration's main hawks on Iran, told Fox News. On Tuesday, Bolton said the sanctions were already working, deterring European companies: The European governments are still holding to the nuclear deal, but honestly their businesses are running from it as fast as they can so that the effect of the American sanctions really is proceeding regardless. Few American companies do much business in Iran so the impact of sanctions mainly stems from Washington's ability to block European and Asian firms from trading there. Among large European companies that have suspended plans to invest in Iran are France's oil major Total and its big carmakers PSA and Renault. "We have ceased our already restricted activities in Iran in accordance with the applicable sanctions", said German car and truck manufacturer Daimler. REMOVE THE KNIFE Washington accepts that Iran has complied with the terms of the 2015 deal reached under Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, but says the agreement is flawed because it is not strict enough. Iran says it will continue to abide by the deal for now, if other countries can help protect it from the economic impact of Washington's decision to pull out. Tuesday's sanctions target Iran's purchases of U.S. dollars, metals trading, coal, industrial software and its auto sector. Global oil prices rose on Tuesday on concern sanctions could cut world supply, although the toughest measures targeting Iran's oil exports do not take effect for four more months. Global benchmark Brent crude oil futures were up $1 or 1.36 percent to $74.75 per barrel at 1823 GMT. "It is a reality check that this is happening and that Iran's oil exports will be hurt when the oil sanctions hit it in November," chief commodities analyst at Commerzbank Bjarne Schieldrop said. In a speech hours before the sanctions were due to take effect, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani rejected negotiations as long as Washington was no longer complying with the deal. "If you stab someone with a knife and then you say you want talks, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife," Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state television. "We are always in favor of diplomacy and talks ... But talks need honesty," Rouhani said. Iranian Intelligence Minister Mahmoud Alavi said Trump's withdrawal from the deal meant there was no point negotiating, since Washington had shown it did not abide by its commitments. "And Iran, based on past experience, has no trust in negotiating with the American government." The nuclear deal is closely associated in Iran with Rouhani, a relative moderate who won two landslide elections on promises to open up the economy to the outside world. European countries fear that by abandoning it, Washington could undermine Rouhani and strengthen the hand of his hardline opponents. Britain, France, Germany and the EU as a bloc said in a joint statement on Monday: "We deeply regret the reimposition of sanctions by the U.S." Since the sanctions were initially lifted two years ago, Iranian oil exports have risen. But many Iranians have yet to see major economic improvement, and the prospect that Washington would reimpose sanctions has helped drive a collapse in the value of Iran's currency this year, raising the cost of imports. Iran's security forces have responded firmly to protests against rising prices. Iran this week made it easier to access foreign currency and said it was prosecuting an ex-central bank official for economic crimes. "(Sanctions) will definitely make daily life harder for Iranians," said Saeed Leylaz, a Tehran-based economist and political analyst. "But if the government has a serious plan they can control the situation." Iraq said it did not agree with the U.S. sanctions on its neighbor, but will abide by them to protect its own interests. "As a matter of principle we are against sanctions in the region. Blockade and sanctions destroy societies and do not weaken regimes," Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said on Tuesday. (Writing by Peter Graff and Mary Milliken; Additional reporting by Susan Heavey in Washington; Editing by Angus MacSwan and James Dalgleish)
By Steve Gorman LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Fire authorities insisted on Monday that they have ample water supplies to fight California's devastating wildfires, contrary to U.S. President Donald Trump's tweets that unspecified water diversions to the Pacific were making matters worse. Officials from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) and the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho, stressed that wild-land blazes are battled primarily by crews hacking away at dry brush with hand tools and bulldozers, not with water. "Yes, we have plenty of water," CalFire Chief Scott McLean said by telephone, adding that the two largest blazes in California this week - the Carr Fire and the Mendocino Complex Fire - were each ringed by at least three major reservoirs. He said the tweets, after Trump on Sunday approved a federal disaster declaration requested by Governor Jerry Brown for the fires, sparked a barrage of media queries to CalFire. On Sunday, Trump tweeted, "California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!" Then on Monday he tweeted, "Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water - Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals." The White House did not respond to requests to clarify Trumps tweets. Neither McLean nor Jessica Gardetto, a spokeswoman for the Idaho-based fire agency, would address the tweets directly, but Gardetto said by telephone, "Most wildfire suppression efforts involve firefighters and boots on the ground." Water, used in protecting homes and other structures and for dumping on flames from airplane tankers and helicopters, is critical but secondary to the larger manual efforts of clearing unburned vegetation to remove it as potential fuel around a fire's perimeter. Peter Gleick, one of California's leading experts on Western water resources as president of the Oakland-based Pacific Institute, said that Trump appeared to be seizing on the wildfires to side with farmers on a separate debate over how to allocate California's finite water resources among farmers, cities, fish and wildlife. "There's nothing that California water policy has done that makes these fires worse or more difficult to fight," Gleick said. Trump's references to diverting water to the oceans was "completely backwards," he said. "The water that reaches the ocean is what's left after we've diverted most of the water away for cities and farms, and what little is left is barely enough for California's aquatic ecosystems and the fisheries," he said. The White House did not immediately respond when asked about Gleicks comments. Trump's suggestion that environmental laws were somehow compounding wildfire woes drew derision on Twitter. Critics said his tweets ignored the greater wildfire frequency and severity experienced in California and other Western states from extreme drought and sustained periods of hot, dry weather, in keeping with the forecasts of climate scientists. Fire officials have said that 95 percent of all wildfires are caused by humans, from camp fires left unattended to careless smoking, to sparks from vehicles and improperly maintained power lines. (Reporting by Steve Gorman Editing by Bill Tarrant)
Washington (AFP) - US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that sanctions reimposed on Iran were the "most biting ever" as he warned other countries from doing business with Tehran.

"The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level," he wrote in an early morning tweet.

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less."

The sanctions reimposed on Tuesday -- targeting access to US banknotes and key industries such as cars and carpets -- were unlikely to cause immediate economic turmoil.

Iran's markets were actually relatively buoyant, with the rial strengthening by 20 percent since Sunday after the government relaxed foreign exchange rules and allowed unlimited, tax-free gold and currency imports.

But a second tranche coming into effect on November 5 covering Iran's vital oil sector, could be far more damaging -- even if several key customers such as China, India and Turkey have refused to significantly cut their purchases.

Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.

The unilateral withdrawal came despite other parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the EU -- pleading with Trump not to abandon the pact aimed at blocking Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP)  Immigration hardliner Kris Kobach and Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer were awaiting the outcome of their tight Republican primary race Wednesday in a key test of whether President Donald Trump's late endorsement would prove decisive for Kobach.

The two campaigns for governor sent their supporters home from election night watch parties with the race still too-close-to-call and results still trickling in from the state's most populous county in the Kansas City area  where Colyer initially was leading.

Kobach, the Kansas secretary of state, built a national reputation as a conservative agitator for both tough immigration policies and strict voter identification laws. He was an early supporter of Trump in the presidential race, advised him during the campaign and in the White House, and served as vice chairman of a now-disbanded presidential commission on election fraud.

But Colyer  who only became governor in January, succeeding Sam Brownback  raised more in campaign contributions than Kobach, received the endorsement of the National Rifle Association, and had the backing of Kansas political legend, former U.S. Senator Bob Dole.

Kobach and Colyer were virtually tied atop a seven-candidate field early Wednesday with most of the outstanding results from Johnson County, which has nearly 23 percent of the state's voters.

Kansas has no automatic recount procedure and if a recount is requested it must be paid for by the candidate requesting it.

Some Republicans worried that if Kobach won, his aggressive personality would make it harder to appeal to a broader electorate and give Democrats an opening in a red state that has been willing to elect Democrats as governor in the past. Democrats nominated veteran state Sen. Laura Kelly, of Topeka, to settle their first contested primary for governor since 1998.

Trump intervened in the race less than 24 hours before polls opened, endorsing Kobach in a tweet. Kobach told reporters that the endorsement "came just in time" and that he expected it to help him, as it has helped other candidates in other races. Trump's tweet backing Georgia Republican governor hopeful Brian Kemp vaulted him to an easy primary runoff win two weeks ago. Trump also on Tuesday boasted that his rally over the weekend for the Republican in an Ohio House district had helped, even though that race was too-close-to-call.

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Richard Cronister, a 73-year-old retired construction company owner from Topeka, said that Trump's endorsement was important to him as he voted for Kobach. He said he thinks Trump's tax cuts have helped the economy and likes Trump's stance against illegal immigration. As for Kobach, Cronister said, "He is doing his best to stop immigration and the illegal voting. The ACLU and all those organizations are against him."

But Bruce Underwood, a 59-year-old engineer, said he voted for Colyer because he believes Kobach is "detrimental" to Kansas. He said he would likely vote for a Democrat in the general election because Republicans aren't standing up to Trump.

"Trump is supporting Kobach and I just can't stand Trump, he is not good for our country," Underwood said.

Like the president, Kobach promises a no-apologies style, telling voters repeatedly: "I don't back down. I double down." His use of a Jeep with a replica gun mounted on top during campaign stops at local parades this summer prompted backlash. Kobach called his critics "snowflakes" and continued to use the Jeep.

Kobach's penchant for provoking outrage could serve him well in a crowded seven-candidate Republican primary Tuesday. Kansas does not hold runoff elections so the winner in the primary will move on to November.

Kelly, a 14-year veteran of the Legislature, defeated former Wichita Mayor Carl Brewer, who had sought to be the first-ever black nominee, and ex-Kansas Agriculture Secretary Joshua Svaty, who had stressed his youth and potential rural appeal.

The mild-mannered Colyer is seeking a full four-year term after moving up from lieutenant governor in January when the unpopular Brownback took an ambassador position in Trump's administration. Colyer's defeat would mark the first primary loss by a sitting Kansas governor since 1956 and the first nationally since Hawaii's Neil Abercrombie lost a primary in 2014.

Besides Colyer and Kobach, the other major GOP candidates, Insurance Commissioner Ken Selzer and former state Sen. Jim Barnett, were far behind.

While the marquee race in Kansas this year is for governor, voters also were picking candidates to contest two House seats that Democrats are hoping to flip in November.

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ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkey's newly appointed deputy foreign minister, Sedat Onal, will head a delegation that will go to the United States to discuss tensions between the NATO allies, a source in the Turkish foreign ministry said on Tuesday. Relations between the two countries have steadily worsened, strained by differences on Syria policy and over the trial of U.S. pastor Andrew Brunson in Turkey. A widening trade spat sent the lira currency to a record low on Monday. Broadcaster CNN Turk had earlier reported that Turkey and the United States had reached pre-arrangements on certain issues and the delegation would go to Washington in two days to discuss the row. "Our deputy foreign minister Sedat Onal will head the delegation," the source said, without elaborating. The source spoken on the condition of anonymity. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has demanded that Turkey release Brunson, an evangelical pastor who has lived in Turkey for more than two decades and has been charged with supporting a group that Ankara has blamed for an attempted coup in 2016. Brunson has denied the accusations. Last week, Washington imposed sanctions on President Tayyip Erdogan's justice minister and interior minister, saying they played leading roles in organizations responsible for Brunson's arrest. Erdogan has said Turkey would retaliate against the sanctions. Over the weekend, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) said it was reviewing Turkey's duty-free access to the U.S. market, after Ankara imposed retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods in response to American tariffs on steel and aluminum. The move could affect $1.7 billion of Turkish exports. The U.S. Embassy in Ankara said on Tuesday that the United States continued to be a solid ally of Turkey despite ongoing tensions, adding that the two countries had an active economic relationship. (Reporting by Tulay Karadeniz and Tuvan Gumrukcu; Editing by David Dolan)
ANKARA (Reuters) - A delegation of Turkish officials will head to Washington in two days to discuss an ongoing row between the two NATO allies, broadcaster CNN Turk reported on Tuesday, citing diplomatic sources. Relations between the two countries have steadily worsened, strained by differences on Syria policy and over the trial of U.S. pastor Andrew Brunson in Turkey. A trade spat between the two sent Turkey's lira currency to plunge to a record low on Monday. Over the weekend, the U.S. Trade Representative said it was reviewing Turkey's duty-free access to the U.S. market, after Ankara imposed retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods in response to American tariffs on steel and aluminum. The move could affect $1.7 billion of Turkish exports. On Tuesday, CNN Turk cited diplomatic sources saying that Ankara and Washington had reached pre-agreements on certain issues, but it did not elaborate. The Turkish government was not immediately available for comment, and the U.S. State Department did not respond to a request for comment. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has demanded that Turkey release Brunson, an evangelical pastor who has lived in Turkey for more than two decades and has been charged with supporting a group that Ankara has blamed for an attempted coup in 2016. He has denied the accusations. Last week, Washington imposed sanctions on President Tayyip Erdogan's justice minister and interior minister, saying they played leading roles in organizations responsible for Brunson's arrest. Erdogan said that Turkey would retaliate by freezing assets of the U.S. interior and justice ministers in Turkey "if they have any." The Turkish currency, which has lost 27 percent of its value this year, fell some 5.5 percent to a record low of 5.4250 against the dollar on Monday, its biggest single-day drop in nearly 10 years. The lira firmed as far as 5.2625 against the dollar after reports of the delegation going to Washington, and traded at 5.2672 at 2238 GMT. (Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu; Editing by James Dalgleish and Rosalba O'Brien)
ANKARA (Reuters) - A delegation of Turkish officials will head to Washington in two days to discuss an ongoing row between the two NATO allies, broadcaster CNN Turk, citing diplomatic sources, said on Tuesday. Relations between the two countries have steadily worsened, strained by differences on Syria policy and over the trial of U.S. pastor Andrew Brunson in Turkey. A trade spat between the two sent Turkey's lira currency to plunge to a record low on Monday. Over the weekend, the U.S. Trade Representative said it was reviewing Turkey's duty-free access to the U.S. market, after Ankara imposed retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods in response to American tariffs on steel and aluminum. The move could affect $1.7 billion of Turkish exports. On Tuesday, CNN Turk cited diplomatic sources as saying that Ankara and Washington had reached pre-agreements on certain issues, but did not elaborate further. The Turkish government was not immediately available for comment. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has demanded that Turkey release Brunson, an evangelical pastor who has lived in Turkey for more than two decades and is charged with supporting the group Ankara blames for an attempted coup in 2016. He denies any involvement in the coup attempt. Washington last week imposed sanctions on President Tayyip Erdogan's justice minister and interior minister, saying they played leading roles in organizations responsible for Brunson's arrest. Erdogan said Turkey would retaliate by freezing assets of the U.S. interior and justice ministers in Turkey "if they have any". The Turkish currency, which has lost 27 percent of its value this year, fell some 5.5 percent to a record low of 5.4250 against the dollar on Monday, in its biggest single-day drop in nearly 10 years. The lira firmed as far as 5.2625 against the dollar after reports of the delegation going to Washington, and traded at 5.2672 at 2238 GMT. (Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu; Editing by James Dalgleish and Rosalba O'Brien)
Police Advisor with the Serious Crime Unit being bid farewell by members of the Vanuatu Police Force. Photo: VPF
(LAKEPORT, Calif.)  Twin Northern California blazes fueled by dry vegetation and hot, windy weather grew Monday to become the largest wildfire in state history, becoming the norm as climate change makes the fire season longer and more severe.

The two fires burning a few miles apart and known as the Mendocino Complex are being treated as one incident. It has scorched 283,800 acres, fire officials said Monday.

The fires, north of San Francisco, have burned 75 homes and is only 30% contained.

The size of the fires surpasses a blaze last December in Southern California that burned 281,893 acres. It killed two people, including a firefighter, and destroyed more than 1,000 buildings before being fully contained on Jan. 12.

Hotter weather attributed to climate change is drying out vegetation, creating more intense fires that spread quickly from rural areas to city subdivisions, climate and fire experts say. But they also blame cities and towns that are expanding housing into previously undeveloped areas.

More than 14,000 firefighters are battling over a dozen major blazes throughout California, state Department of Forestry and Fire Protection spokesman Scott McLean said.

Authorities have evacuated cabins in two communities in the Santa Ana Mountains in Orange County because of a fast-moving wildfire. Firefighters are attacking the fast-moving Holy Fire with a DC-10 air tanker and helicopters.

I can remember a couple of years ago when we saw 10 to 12,000 firefighters in the states of California, Oregon and Washington and never the 14,000 we see now, he said.

Crews did make progress over the weekend against one of the two blazes in the Mendocino Complex with help from water-dropping aircraft, Cal Fire operations chief Charlie Blankenheim said in a video on Facebook.

But the other one is growing after spreading into the Mendocino National Forest.

The complex of fire has been less destructive to property than some of the other wildfires in the state because it is mostly raging in remote areas. But officials say the twin fires threaten 11,300 buildings and some new evacuations were ordered over the weekend as the flames spread.

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Farther north, crews gained ground against a deadly blaze that has destroyed more than 1,000 homes in and around Redding. It was nearly halfway contained, Cal Fire said.

The wildfire about 225 miles north of San Francisco started more than two weeks ago by sparks from the steel wheel of a towed-trailers flat tire. It killed two firefighters and four residents and displaced more than 38,000 people.

Officials began allowing some residents to return to their neighborhoods. But tens of thousands of others were still evacuated.

The fires in Northern California have created such a haze of smoke in the Central Valley that Sacramento County health officials advised residents to avoid outdoor activities for the entire week.

Another blaze that ignited last week has damaged a historic Northern California resort in the Stanislaus National Forest. The nearly century-old Dardanelle Resort has sustained massive structural damage, though the details were unclear, the Sacramento Bee newspaper reported.

The rustic lodge 180 miles east of San Francisco is nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains and offers cabin and motel rentals along with RV sites, a store and restaurant.

The U.S. Forest Service reported that the fire crossed a highway Sunday evening, forcing crews to retreat from the fires edge.

The resort owners said in a Facebook post that at this point it has been confirmed that there is massive structural damage. We are heartbroken and struggling with this news.
By Scott DiSavino

(Reuters) - A U.S. appeals court on Monday vacated permits by two federal agencies that allowed Dominion Energy Inc to build its Atlantic Coast natural gas pipeline, a decision the company does not expect to hold up its $6.0 billion to $6.5 billion project.

In response to the court's concerns about the environment, Dominion said it would work with the agencies to reinstate the permits for the 600-mile (966-km) pipe from West Virginia to Virginia and North Carolina.

"We believe the court's concerns can be promptly addressed ... without causing unnecessary delay," Dominion spokesman Aaron Ruby said in an email.

In the meantime, Ruby said Dominion will continue work in West Virginia and North Carolina. The company has said it expects to finish the 1.5-billion cubic feet per day pipe by late 2019.

One billion cubic feet is enough to fuel about 5 million U.S. homes for a day.

The ruling was the latest victory for the Sierra Club and other opponents of gas pipelines in the 4th U.S. Court of Appeals.

Last week, the court told EQT Corp to stop work on its Mountain Valley pipeline from West Virginia to Virginia after voiding two federal permits for that project.

Atlantic Coast and Mountain Valley are two of several pipelines under construction to connect growing output in the Marcellus and Utica shale basins in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio with customers in other parts of the United States and Canada.

In the Atlantic Coast case, the Sierra Club and others challenged decisions by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service.

The Fish and Wildlife Service issued an Incidental Take Statement under the Endangered Species Act authorizing the company to build the pipeline in areas inhabited by threatened or endangered species, including mussels, bumble bees, crustaceans and bats.

The court wants Fish and Wildlife to put more limits on how the company deals with the animals in a 20-mile portion of the pipeline's route in West Virginia and 80 miles in Virginia.

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Dominion said it will avoid those areas until the agency clarifies the limits, which the company expects shortly.

The court wants the National Park Service to better explain why permitting a pipeline to cross under the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia is consistent with the conservation and preservation purpose, including scenic views, of a national highway.

Dominion said it expects the Park Service to provide the information and promptly reissue the permit.

(Reporting by Scott DiSavino; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Lisa Shumaker)
By Andrew Chung

NEW YORK (Reuters) - A U.S. court on Monday ruled the Trump administration could not enforce an updated policy barring certain transgender people from serving in the U.S. military, becoming the second court in the country to rule against the government since it unveiled the policy in March.

President Donald Trump announced on March 23 that he would endorse a plan by Defense Secretary Jim Mattis to restrict the military service of transgender people who experience a condition called gender dysphoria. The policy replaced an outright ban on transgender service members that Trump announced last year on Twitter, citing concern over military focus and medical costs.

U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly in Washington denied a request by the administration to lift an injunction she had issued against Trump's original ban.

Her ruling follows one by a federal judge in Seattle who in April also refused to allow the new policy to go into effect. The government has appealed that ruling to the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

The administration argued that the new policy, which also bars anyone who requires or has undergone gender transition, was no longer a categorical ban.

Kollar-Kotelly disagreed. The new policy effectively implements the original ban "by targeting proxies of transgender status, such as 'gender dysphoria' and 'gender transition,' and by requiring all service members to serve 'in their biological sex,'" she wrote in Monday's ruling.

The U.S. Department of Justice declined to comment.

The American Psychiatric Association defines gender dysphoria as a "clinically significant distress" due to a conflict between a person's gender identity and their sex assigned at birth. Not all transgender people suffer from gender dysphoria, according to the association, which opposes the military ban.

Monday's ruling came in a lawsuit filed last August by several aspiring service troops and current members of the U.S. Army, Air Force and Coast Guard. Last October, Kollar-Kotelly ruled that the original ban likely violated the U.S. Constitution's guarantee of equal protection under the law.

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Three more judges also blocked the ban, forcing the military to permit openly transgender individuals to join the ranks.

Trump's ban reversed Democratic former President Barack Obama's policy of allowing transgender troops to serve openly and receive medical care to transition genders.

The new Trump policy exempts those diagnosed with gender dysphoria during the Obama policy, allowing them to remain in the military and serve according to their gender identity.

(Reporting by Andrew Chung; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Diane Craft)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Trump administration will aggressively enforce economic sanctions that is it re-imposing on Iran this week and expects the measures to have a significant impact on the Iranian economy, senior U.S. administration officials said on Monday. The so-called snapback sanctions would target Iran's purchases of U.S. dollars, metals trading and other dealings, coal, industrial-related software and its auto sector. The officials added that Trump was ready to meet with Iran's leaders at any time in an effort to forge a new agreement with Tehran after President Donald Trump withdrew from a 2015 nuclear deal in May. "There is no question that these financial sanctions are going to continue to bring significant financial pressure," one official told reporters on a conference call. Washington is due to bring back some of the measures against Iran that it suspended under the 2015 deal between world powers and Tehran under which international sanctions were lifted in return for curbs on Iran's nuclear program. Some of the sanctions will come back on Tuesday at 12:01 a.m. EDT (0401 GMT). The United States also plans to re-introduce potentially more damaging sanctions on Iranian oil in November. The renewed sanctions are part of the broader strategy under Trump aimed at cutting off the Iranian leadership's access to resources. They are aimed at modifying Iran's behavior not bring about a "regime change" targeting President Hassan Rouhani, the officials added. The officials said the Iranian government's handling of current social and labor protests in were concerning. "We are deeply concerned about reports of Iranian regimes violence against unarmed citizens," one official said. "The United States supports the Iranian peoples right to peacefully protest against corruption and oppression without fear of reprisal," the official added. Trump "will meet with the Iranian leadership at any time to discuss a real comprehensive deal that will contain their regional ambitions, will end their malign behavior and deny them any path to a nuclear weapon," one official said. Asked about any possible exemptions to the renewed sanctions, officials said they would examine any requests on a case-by-case basis. (Reporting by Lesley Wroughton; Additional reporting by Lisa Lambert; Writing by Susan Heavey; Editing by Alistair Bell)
United Nations (United States) (AFP) - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has told Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa during a telephone conversation that he must rein in his security forces after six people were killed in election violence, a UN spokesman said Tuesday.

Guterres also spoke by phone with opposition leader Nelson Chamisa to urge him to turn to the courts -- and not the streets -- if he plans to challenge Mnangagwa's election victory.

"In his two calls, the secretary-general made clear that he counted on the president of Zimbabwe to ensure that the security forces show maximum restraint," said UN spokesman Farhan Haq.

"He also encouraged the opposition to pursue their electoral grievances through legal channels."

Guterres spoke by phone with the leaders on Monday after violence marred elections that were the first held since Robert Mugabe was forced out of the presidency last year.

The presidential and parliamentary vote on July 30 was meant to turn the page on the Mugabe era and bring Zimbabwe back to the international fold after decades of sanctions.

Electoral results showed Mnangagwa won the presidential vote by a narrow margin, but the opposition Movement for Democratic (MDC) has accused him of rigging the result.

The UN spokesman said Guterres wanted to ensure that "all of the participants in the election will abide by the result and channel any grievances through the proper electoral process."

He described the phone conversations as "constructive" and suggested that both sides had agreed to his appeal to step away from the violence.

"Our hope is that the reassurances provided by the leaders will be borne out by their supporters," said Haq.

Six people were killed when soldiers opened fire on demonstrators protesting the election result.

On Tuesday, 27 MDC supporters were released on bail after being accused of fomenting election violence.

The European Union, United States, Canada and Switzerland earlier issued a joint statement calling on Zimbabwe's defense forces to act with restraint and protect human rights.
ATAQ, Yemen (AP)  Again and again over the past two years, a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and backed by the United States has claimed it won decisive victories that drove al-Qaida militants from their strongholds across Yemen and shattered their ability to attack the West.

Here's what the victors did not disclose: many of their conquests came without firing a shot.

That's because the coalition cut secret deals with al-Qaida fighters, paying some to leave key cities and towns and letting others retreat with weapons, equipment and wads of looted cash, an investigation by The Associated Press has found. Hundreds more were recruited to join the coalition itself.

These compromises and alliances have allowed al-Qaida militants to survive to fight another day  and risk strengthening the most dangerous branch of the terror network that carried out the 9/11 attacks. Key participants in the pacts said the U.S. was aware of the arrangements and held off on any drone strikes.

The deals uncovered by the AP reflect the contradictory interests of the two wars being waged simultaneously in this southwestern corner of the Arabian Peninsula.

In one conflict, the U.S. is working with its Arab allies  particularly the United Arab Emirates  with the aim of eliminating the branch of extremists known as al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP. But the larger mission is to win the civil war against the Houthis, Iranian-backed Shiite rebels. And in that fight, al-Qaida militants are effectively on the same side as the Saudi-led coalition  and, by extension, the United States.

"Elements of the U.S. military are clearly aware that much of what the U.S. is doing in Yemen is aiding AQAP and there is much angst about that," said Michael Horton, a fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, a U.S. analysis group that tracks terrorism.

"However, supporting the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia against what the U.S. views as Iranian expansionism takes priority over battling AQAP and even stabilizing Yemen," Horton said.

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The AP's findings are based on reporting in Yemen and interviews with two dozen officials, including Yemeni security officers, militia commanders, tribal mediators and four members of al-Qaida's branch. All but a few of those sources spoke on condition of anonymity, fearing reprisals. Emirati-backed factions, like most armed groups in Yemen, have been accused of abducting or killing their critics.

Coalition-backed militias actively recruit al-Qaida militants, or those who were recently members, because they're considered exceptional fighters, the AP found.

The coalition forces are comprised of a dizzying mix of militias, factions, tribal warlords and tribes with very local interests. And AQAP militants are intertwined with many of them.

One Yemeni commander who was put on the U.S. terrorism list for al-Qaida ties last year continues to receive money from the UAE to run his militia, his own aide told the AP. Another commander, recently granted $12 million for his fighting force by Yemen's president, has a known al-Qaida figure as his closest aide.

In one case, a tribal mediator who brokered a deal between the Emiratis and al-Qaida even gave the extremists a farewell dinner.

Horton said much of the war on al-Qaida by the UAE and its allied militias is a "farce."

"It is now almost impossible to untangle who is AQAP and who is not since so many deals and alliances have been made," he said.

The U.S. has sent billions of dollars in weapons to the coalition to fight the Iran-backed Houthis. U.S. advisers also give the coalition intelligence used in targeting on-the-ground adversaries in Yemen, and American jets provide air-to-air refueling for coalition war planes. The U.S. does not fund the coalition, however, and there is no evidence that American money went to AQAP militants.

The U.S. is aware of an al-Qaida presence among the anti-Houthi ranks, a senior American official told reporters in Cairo earlier this year. Because coalition members back militias with hard-line Islamic commanders, "it's very, very easy for al-Qaida to insinuate itself into the mix," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity under the terms of the briefing.

More recently, the Pentagon vigorously denied any complicity with al-Qaida militants.

"Since the beginning of 2017, we have conducted more than 140 strikes to remove key AQAP leaders and disrupt its ability to use ungoverned spaces to recruit, train and plan operations against the U.S. and our partners across the region," Navy Cmdr. Sean Robertson, a Pentagon spokesman, wrote in an email to the AP.

An Emirati government spokesman did not reply to questions from the AP.

But on Monday, Emirati Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash tweeted that the UAE-backed counter-terrorism strategy is working. He said it had "removed" thousands of militants and deprived them of safe havens.

AQAP is "at its weakest since 2012," he wrote, adding that the UAE and its allies "have all lost troops in the fight."

Coalition spokesman Col. Turki al-Malki on Monday said the AP's findings were "incorrect" and "not based on convincing facts and evidence."

"The coalition is waging a war on terrorist organizations in Yemen, like al-Qaida, the Islamic State group and the Houthi militia," he said. "It continues to carry our joint operations with its friends and brothers to dismantle these groups' capabilities."

The coalition began fighting in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis overran the north, including the capital, Sanaa. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are determined to stop what they consider a move by their nemesis, Iran, to take over Yemen, and their professed aim is to restore the internationally recognized government of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi.

Al-Qaida is leveraging the chaos to its advantage.

"The United States is certainly in a bind in Yemen," said Katherine Zimmerman, a research fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. "It doesn't make sense that the United States has identified al-Qaida as a threat, but that we have common interests inside of Yemen and that, in some places, it looks like we're looking the other way."

Within this complicated conflict, al-Qaida says its numbers  which U.S. officials have estimated at 6,000 to 8,000 members  are rising.

An al-Qaida commander who helps organize deployments told the AP that the front lines against the Houthis provide fertile ground to recruit new members.

"Meaning, if we send 20, we come back with 100," he said.

The well-known commander communicated with AP via a secure messaging app on condition of anonymity because he had no authorization from the group to talk to the news media.

___

The Associated Press reported this story with help from a grant from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting.

___

A FAREWELL DINNER FOR AL-QAIDA

In February, Emirati troops and their Yemeni militia allies flashed victory signs to TV cameras as they declared the recapture of al-Said, a district of villages running through the mountainous province of Shabwa  an area al-Qaida had largely dominated for nearly three years.

It was painted as a crowning victory in a months-long offensive, Operation Swift Sword, that the Emirati ambassador to Washington, Yousef al-Otaiba, had proclaimed would "disrupt the terrorist organization's network and degrade its ability to conduct future attacks."

The Pentagon, which assisted with a small number of troops, echoed that promise, saying the mission would weaken the group's ability to use Yemen as a base.

But weeks before those forces' entry, a string of pickup trucks mounted with machine guns and loaded with masked al-Qaida militants drove out of al-Said unmolested, according to a tribal mediator involved in the deal for their withdrawal.

The U.S. has killed al-Qaida's top leaders in a drone strike campaign that accelerated in recent years. But in this victory  as in the others touted by the coalition  the mediator said armed U.S. drones were absent, despite the large, obvious convoy.

Under the terms of the deal, the coalition promised al-Qaida members it would pay them to leave, according to Awad al-Dahboul, the province's security chief. His account was confirmed by the mediator and two Yemeni government officials.

Al-Dahboul said about 200 al-Qaida members received payments. He did not learn the exact amounts, but said he knew that 100,000 Saudi rials ($26,000) were paid to one al-Qaida commander  in the presence of Emiratis.

Under the accord, thousands of local tribal fighters were to be enlisted in the UAE-funded Shabwa Elite Force militia. For every 1,000 fighters, 50 to 70 would be al-Qaida members, the mediator and two officials said.

Saleh bin Farid al-Awlaqi, a pro-Emirati tribal leader who was the founder of one Elite Force branch, denied any agreements were made. He said he and others enticed young al-Qaida members in Shabwa to defect, which weakened the group, forcing it to withdraw on its own. He said about 150 fighters who defected were allowed into the Elite Force, but only after they underwent a "repentance" program.

The clearing of al-Qaida from Shabwa and other provinces did not completely take place without fighting. Clashes erupted in some villages, usually with al-Qaida remnants that refused to play ball.

One former al-Qaida member told the AP that he and his comrades turned down an offer of money from the Emiratis. In response, he said, an Elite Force squad besieged them in the town of Hawta until they withdrew.

Overall, deals that took place during both the Obama and Trump administrations have secured al-Qaida militants' withdrawal from multiple major towns and cities that the group seized in 2015, the AP found. The earliest pact, in the spring of 2016, allowed thousands of al-Qaida fighters to pull out of Mukalla, Yemen's fifth-largest city and a major port on the Arabian Sea.

The militants were guaranteed a safe route out and allowed to keep weapons and cash looted from the city  up to $100 million by some estimates  according to five sources, including military, security and government officials.

"Coalition fighter jets and U.S. drones were idle," said a senior tribal leader who saw the convoy leaving. "I was wondering why they didn't strike them."

A tribal sheikh shuttled between AQAP leaders in Mukalla and Emirati officials in Aden to seal the deal, according to a former senior Yemeni commander.

Coalition-backed forces moved in two days later, announcing that hundreds of militants were killed and hailing the capture as "part of joint international efforts to defeat the terrorist organizations in Yemen."

No witnesses reported militants killed, however. "We woke up one day and al-Qaida had vanished without a fight," a local journalist said, speaking to AP on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals.

Soon after, another accord was struck for AQAP to pull out of six towns in the province of Abyan, including its capital, Zinjibar, according to five tribal mediators involved in the negotiations.

Again, the central provision was that the coalition and U.S. drones cease all bombings as AQAP pulled out with its weapons, the mediators said.

The agreement also included a provision that 10,000 local tribesmen  including 250 al-Qaida militants  be incorporated into the Security Belt, the UAE-backed Yemeni force in the area, four Yemeni officials said.

For nearly a week in May 2016, the militants departed in trucks. One of the mediators told the AP that he threw the last of the departing fighters a farewell dinner among his olive and lemon orchards when they stopped at his farm to pay their respects.

Another mediator, Tarek al-Fadhli, a former jihadi once trained by al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, said he was in touch with officials at the U.S. Embassy and in the Saudi-led coalition, keeping them updated on the withdrawal.

"When the last one left, we called the coalition to say they are gone," he said.

___

'WE WILL UNITE WITH THE DEVIL'

To think of al-Qaida as an international terror group is to miss its other reality. For many Yemenis, it is simply another faction on the ground  a very effective one, well-armed and battle-hardened.

Its members are not shadowy strangers. Over the years, AQAP has woven itself into society by building ties with tribes, buying loyalties and marrying into major families.

Power players often see it as a useful tool.

Hadi's predecessor as Yemen's president, long-ruling strongman Ali Abdullah Saleh, set the model. He took billions in U.S. aid to combat al-Qaida after the 9/11 attacks, even as he recruited its militants to fight his rivals. Hadi's current vice president, Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar, a military chief for decades, also has been accused of enlisting jihadis.

In that light, it would almost be more startling if the militants were not involved against the Houthis, especially since al-Qaida militants are extremist Sunnis seeking the defeat of the Shiite rebels.

Al-Qaida militants are present on all major front lines fighting the rebels, Khaled Baterfi, a senior leader in the group, said in a previously unpublished 2015 interview with a local journalist obtained by the AP.

Last month, Baterfi said in a Q&A session distributed by al-Qaida that "those at the front lines for sure know of our participation, which is either actual fighting with our brothers in Yemen or supporting them with weapons."

Al-Qaida has reduced attacks against Hadi's and Emirati-linked forces because assailing them would benefit the Houthis, Baterfi said.

The branch is following guidance from al-Qaida's worldwide leader, Ayman al-Zawahri, to focus on fighting the rebels, another top AQAP member said in written answers to the AP.

In some places, militants join battles independently. But in many cases, militia commanders from the ultraconservative Salafi sect and the Muslim Brotherhood bring them directly into their ranks, where they benefit from coalition funding, the AP found. The Brotherhood's Yemen branch is a powerful hard-line Islamic political organization allied to Hadi.

Two of the four main coalition-backed commanders along the Red Sea coast are allies of al-Qaida, the al-Qaida member said. The coalition has made major advances on the coast, and is currently battling for the port of Hodeida.

Video footage shot by the AP in January 2017 showed a coalition-backed unit advancing on Mocha, part of an eventually successful campaign to recapture the Red Sea town.

Some of the unit's fighters were openly al-Qaida, wearing Afghan-style garb and carrying weapons with the group's logo. As they climbed behind machine guns in pick-up trucks, explosions from coalition airstrikes could be seen on the horizon.

An AQAP member interviewed in person by the AP in May viewed the video and confirmed the fighters belonged to his group. His affiliation is known from his past involvement in AQAP's rule over a southern city.

The impact of the intertwining of al-Qaida fighters with the coalition campaign is clearest in Taiz, Yemen's largest city and center of one of the war's longest running battles.

In the central highlands, Taiz is Yemen's cultural capital, a historic source of poets and writers and educated technocrats. In 2015, the Houthis laid siege to the city, occupying surrounding mountain ranges, sealing the entrances and shelling it mercilessly.

Taiz residents rose up to fight back, and coalition cash and weapons poured in  as did al-Qaida and Islamic State militants, all aimed at the same enemy.

One liberal activist took up arms alongside other men from his neighborhood to defend the city, and they found themselves fighting side by side with al-Qaida members.

"There is no filtering in the war. We are all together," said the activist, who spoke on condition of anonymity. He said commanders received weapons and other aid from the coalition and distributed it to all the fighters, including al-Qaida militants.

Abdel-Sattar al-Shamiri, a former adviser to Taiz's governor, said he recognized al-Qaida's presence from the start and told commanders not to recruit members.

"Their response was, 'We will unite with the devil in the face of Houthis,'" al-Shamiri said.

He said he warned coalition officials, who were "upset" but took no action.

"Taiz is in danger," al-Shamiri said. "We will get rid of the Houthis and we will be stuck with terrorist groups."

The activist and officials in the city said one of the main recruiters of al-Qaida fighters is Adnan Rouzek, a Salafi member tapped by Hadi to be a top military commander.

Rouzek's militia became notorious for kidnappings and street killings, with one online video showing its masked members shooting a kneeling, blindfolded man. Its videos feature al-Qaida-style anthems and banners.

Rouzek's top aide was a senior al-Qaida figure who escaped from a prison in Aden in 2008 along with other AQAP detainees, according to a Yemeni security official. Multiple photos seen by the AP show Rouzek with known al-Qaida commanders in recent years.

In November, Hadi named Rouzek head of the Taiz Operations Rooms, coordinating the military campaign, and top commander of a new fighting force, the 5th Presidential Protection Battalion. Hadi's Defense Ministry also gave Rouzek $12 million for a new offensive against the Houthis. The AP obtained copy of a receipt for the $12 million and a Rouzek aide confirmed the figure.

Rouzek denied any connection to militants, telling the AP that "there is no presence of al-Qaida" in Taiz.

Another coalition-backed warlord is on the U.S. list of designated terrorists due to his ties to al-Qaida.

The warlord, a Salafi known as Sheikh Aboul Abbas, has received millions of dollars from the coalition to distribute among anti-Houthi factions, according to his aide, Adel al-Ezzi. Despite being put on the U.S. list in October, the UAE continues to fund him, al-Ezzi told the AP.

The aide denied any links to militants and dismissed his boss's designation on the U.S. terror list. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that "al-Qaida has fought on all the front lines alongside all factions."

Right after the AP team spoke to him in Taiz, the team saw al-Ezzi meeting with a known senior al-Qaida figure, warmly hugging him outside the home of another former AQAP commander.

Aboul Abbas runs a coalition-funded militia controlling several districts in Taiz. A 2016 video produced by al-Qaida shows militants in black uniforms with al-Qaida's logo fighting alongside other militias in districts known to be under his control.

A former security official in Taiz said militants and Aboul Abbas' forces attacked security headquarters in 2017 and freed a number of al-Qaida suspects. The officer said he reported the attack to the coalition, only to learn soon after that it gave Aboul Abbas 40 more pick-up trucks.

"The more we warn, the more they are rewarded," the officer said. "Al-Qaida leaders have armored vehicles given to them by the coalition while security commanders don't have such vehicles."

___

Wilson contributed from Washington. Keath contributed from Beirut. AP correspondent Desmond Butler also contributed to this report.
The United States re-imposed a wave of tough, unilateral sanctions against Iran on Tuesday, bringing back into effect harsh penalties that had been lifted under a historic, multi-party nuclear agreement that President Donald Trump abandoned in May.

The first of two rounds of US sanctions kicked in at 12:01 am (0431 GMT), targeting Iran's access to US banknotes and key industries, including cars and carpets.

Iranians are already seeing the effects of the sanctions, with Iran's rial currency losing around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the 2015 nuclear accord.

Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.

He blasted the agreement yet again Monday, calling it a "horrible, one-sided deal (that) failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb."

The unilateral withdrawal came despite other parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the EU -- pleading with Trump not to abandon the pact aimed at blocking Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, and highlights the US leader's go-it-alone style and his distaste for multilateral agreements.

In an executive order Monday, Trump said the sanctions seek to pile financial pressure on Tehran to force a "comprehensive and lasting solution" to Iranian threats, including its development of missiles and regional "malign" activities.

The European Union's diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini said the bloc, as well as Britain, France and Germany, deeply regretted Washington's move.

"We are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran," she said in a statement.

Many large European firms are leaving Iran for fear of US penalties, and Trump warned of "severe consequences" against firms and individuals that continued to do business with Iran.

Story continues

The impact of the return of sanctions has ramped up tensions inside Iran, which has seen days of protests and strikes in multiple towns and cities over water shortages, high prices and wider anger at the political system.

Severe reporting restrictions have made it impossible to verify the swirl of claims coming through social media.

- 'Remove the knife' -

Trump said he was open to reaching a more comprehensive deal with Iran "that addresses the full range of the regime's malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism."

But Iranian President Hassan Rouhani was unimpressed by the offer.

"If you're an enemy and you stab the other person with a knife, and then you say you want negotiations, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife," the Iranian leader said in an interview on state television.

"They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation," Rouhani said. "Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense."

John Glaser, director of foreign policy studies at the Cato Institute, noted that the US sees the sanctions "as a tool to pressure Iran to come back to the negotiating table to rehash the nuclear deal on terms more to Trump's liking. That is not going to happen."

The second phase of US sanctions, which takes effect November 5 and will block Iran's oil sales, is due to cause more damage, though several countries including China, India and Turkey have indicated they are not willing to entirely cut their Iranian energy purchases.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters the global reaction to Trump's move showed that the US was diplomatically "isolated," but acknowledged the sanctions "may cause some disruption."

Rouhani's government has taken emergency measures to stem the collapse of the rial ahead of the return of sanctions.
BEIJING (AP)  Global stock markets rose Tuesday as investors looked past U.S.-China trade tensions and the price of oil increased after the U.S. imposed new sanctions on Iran.

KEEPING SCORE: Germany's DAX rose 0.8 percent to 12,701 and France's CAC 40 advanced 0.7 percent to 5,516. London's FTSE 100 gained 0.7 percent to 7,716. On Wall Street, the future for the Dow Jones industrial average was 0.3 percent higher and that for the Standard & Poor's 500 index was up 0.2 percent.

ASIA'S DAY: The Shanghai Composite Index rose 2.7 percent to 2,779.37 and Tokyo's Nikkei 225 advanced 0.7 percent to 22,662.74. Hong Kong's Hang Seng added 1.5 percent to 28,248.88 and Seoul's Kospi was 0.6 percent higher at 2,300.16. Sydney's S&P-ASX 200 shed 0.3 percent to 6,253.90 and India's Sensex was 0.1 percent higher at 37,739.62.

EARNINGS MOMENTUM: Stocks are having a good week so far amid gains for media, retail and technology companies, particularly in the U.S. Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway led gains for the financial sector. Investors focused on quarterly results instead of U.S. and Chinese trade threats. Profits have rocketed higher this year thanks to the corporate tax cut and economic growth.

ANALYST'S TAKE: U.S. earnings "are inspiring the bulls at present," said Chris Weston of Pepperstone Group in a commentary. "But for how much longer?" U.S.-China tension "will become a more pressing market issue in the next two months," he said.

CHINA INVESTMENT: A government newspaper said Beijing planned to issue policies to encourage investment amid concern about slowing economic growth and trade tensions. The China Daily said some state banks issued orders to local branches to step up lending. The report, citing an unidentified official of the Cabinet planning agency, said spending on infrastructure is one target for support but gave no other details.

IRAN NUCLEAR: The Trump administration re-imposed U.S. economic sanctions on Iran despite opposition from European allies who want to preserve an agreement to limit Iranian nuclear activity. President Donald Trump complained the 2015 deal left Tehran flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East. European allies said they "deeply regret" the U.S. action.

ENERGY: The U.S. sanctions helped push up the cost of energy. Benchmark U.S. crude added 66 cents to $69.67 per barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. The contract rose 52 cents on Monday. Brent crude, used to price international oils, gained 97 cents to $74.72 per barrel in London. It advanced 54 cents the previous session.

CURRENCY: The dollar declined to 111.20 yen from Monday's 111.40 yen. The euro gained to $1.1590 from $1.1554.
By Andreina Aponte and Shaylim Castro CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuelan government sympathizers on Monday rallied to show support for President Nicolas Maduro following weekend drone blasts that he called an assassination attempt, but the socialist leader surprised the crowd by skipping the event. Maduro, whose approval ratings hover around 25 percent, with opponents blaming his policies for worsening an economic meltdown, has urged supporters to unite in the face of what he described as right-wing plots led by the Colombian government and exiles in the United States. Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos has scoffed at the accusations, saying he was fully focused on his granddaughter's baptism, while U.S. national security adviser John Bolton said Washington was not involved in the blasts. Supporters wearing t-shirts emblazoned with Maduro's face massed in Caracas on Monday, chanting pro-socialist slogans and enjoying subsidized corn patties. "We're willing to defend this process peacefully and through the development of ideas. But if we have to give our lives, we will," said Henry Jaimes, 37, an employee of Caracas' Youth Institute, as he waved a sign saying, "Alive and winning with Maduro." But turnout was thin compared to previous marches, which would take over major avenues. Many in attendance were public sector employees, some of whom said they had been ordered to attend, according to Reuters witnesses. Keen supporters of late leader Hugo Chavez have increasingly soured on his far less charismatic successor. Maduro, who made a televised speech shortly after the incident, had been due to speak from the Miraflores palace on Monday afternoon. It was not immediately clear why he did not. The Information Ministry did not reply to a request for comment. "Where is our comandante (leader)?" confused supporters asked when staff began packing up. "We thought we would see and hear our president," said Tony Ugarte, 43, who is in charge of the distribution of subsidized food boxes in part of the working class neighborhood of El Paraiso. The government said suspects launched two DJI M600 drones laden with C4 explosives over an outdoor rally on Saturday afternoon, which had been held to commemorate the founding of the National Guard. One drone was "diverted" by security forces while the second fell on its own and hit an apartment building, authorities said. Six people have been detained, authorities said on Sunday. Intelligence agents on Monday searched an upscale hotel in eastern Caracas, workers at the hotel told Reuters, although it was not immediately evident if the searches were linked to the blasts. (Reporting by Andreina Aponte and Shaylim Castro, Additional reporting by Mayela Armas and Adriana Loureiro, Writing by Alexandra Ulmer, Editing by Rosalba O'Brien)
Lucille Ball was a star in more ways than one. She was a television pioneer, a trailblazing feminist and a style icon.

During her long career in the entertainment industry, Ball, whose 107th birthday would have been Monday, appeared in over 70 films. But it was her role as Lucy Ricardo in the classic I Love Lucy that left the biggest mark on TV. Not only was Ball one of the first female comedic leads on TV, she was the first woman to own her own production company, Desilu Productions. (She co-owned it with her then-husband of 20 years, Desi Arnaz, but she bought him out when they divorced.)

Before all that, Ball got her start as a model in the 1930s and, according to Vogue, she worked for New York designer Hattie Carnegie. In those days, Balls signature red locks were bleached blond (she was actually a brunette).

Her time in the fashion industry likely had some influence on the stars style, which Vogue described as the casual American look. She often wore the popular fit-and-flare silhouette in the 50s, reminiscent of Diors New Look, but looked just as stylish in jeans or tailored separates. Ball embraced the glamour of the 70s and 80s, incorporating sparkles, feathers and other embellishments into her wardrobe for public events.

Below, take a look back at some of the icons best style moments through the years:

Undated

An early portrait of a blonde Ball.

1936

A blonde Ball displays the latest in spring fashion in Hollywood.

1936

Here, Ball wears a two-piece ensemble with a black dress and printed jacket.

1938

Ball posing for a color portrait.

1938

Ball wearing a floral bonnet in a fashion image.

1939

The TV icon is photographed with her pet dog.

Early 1940s

Ball is shown here posing in casual attire at her San Fernando Valley ranch home.

Undated

The actress is pictured wearing a gingham dress and carrying egg baskets.

Sometime in the 1940s

Ball posing in a swimsuit.

1941

Ball vacationing at the Roney Plaza Cabana Club.

1942

Ball in a publicity photo.

1945

Ball wearing an evening gown.

1947

Ball at a torch parade in New York to raise funds for the New York Infirmary.

In the 1950s

Ball on the set of "I Love Lucy," which aired from 1951-1957.

1953

Ball with her then-husband, Desi Arnaz.

1954

A publicity portrait of the actress.

1955

Ball wearing cuffed jeans and a white headpiece.

1955

Ball wearing a lace wedding dress.

1959

The Desilu Productions co-founder standing by office door to Desilu Studios in Hollywood.

1962

Ball photographed in Los Angeles.

1965

A portrait of Ball under an umbrella.

1972

Ball, with then-husband Gary Morton, during the "Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" 10th anniversary party.

1974

Ball at a party in honor of her starring role in the film version of the Broadway musical "Mame" in New York City.

1974

Ball at the "Mame" film premiere after-party in Los Angeles.

1975

The star at a Thalians Ball.

1979

Ball at the The Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.

1980

Ball photographed in 1980.

1981

A photo of Ball at the Share Boomtown annual charity event.

1982

The star during the taping of Bob Hope's special "The Women I Love: Beautiful, But Funny" at NBC Studios in Burbank, California.

1982

Ball with then-husband Morton.

1986

Ball in a publicity still.

1987

Ball at the 10th annual Kennedy Center Honors: A Celebration of the Performing Arts.

1987

Pictured at the taping of the Hollywood 100th Birthday Celebration.

1987

Ball at a book signing event for Betty White's Betty White In Person.

1988

Ball at the Los Angeles Children's Museum's annual Halloween carnival and fashion show.

CORRECTION: In a previous version of this story, a photo caption misstated the date of a photo of Ball as 1940 instead of 1954.

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This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.
Democrats hope to grab a House seat that Republicans have held for decades. A tweet from President Donald Trump could tip a GOP gubernatorial primary in Kansas. Democrats continue to decide how far to the left the party should move. And critical Senate races are coming into focus.

What to watch as voters in five states head to the polls Tuesday:

BATTLEGROUND OHIO

Ohio's 12th Congressional District doesn't normally get this much attention.

But a special election to fill a seat vacated by a longtime Republican congressman is becoming a barometer of where the midterms may be heading. Danny O'Connor, a 31-year-old local election official, appears to be within striking distance of becoming the first Democrat to represent this stretch of central Ohio in decades.

An O'Connor victory would be another strong sign of Democratic enthusiasm as the party pushes to take back control of the House in November. In fact, given how poorly they've fared here in the past, Democrats would likely be encouraged even if they lose by a few percentage points.

O'Connor is facing Republican Troy Balderson, a 57-year-old state senator endorsed by President Donald Trump.

The district reaches from parts of liberal-leaning Franklin County, home to Columbus and The Ohio State University, through suburbs and into small-town Ohio. Trump won there by more than 11 percentage points in 2016 and has pulled out all the stops to keep it in the GOP column, including holding a rally with Balderson over the weekend.

For all the attention  and cash  the race is receiving, the special election is about more than a single House seat up for grabs in a competitive midterm election year. The results could signal where Ohio is trending heading into the next presidential election.

A strong showing by O'Connor would give Democrats hope that they could regain ground they lost in 2016 when Trump dominated the state. A big Balderson victory, however, could help soothe GOP anxiety that Trump's grip on the Midwest could be waning.

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TRUMP EFFECT

If Trump's endorsement doesn't carry his preferred candidate across the finish line in Ohio, he'll look to Kansas, where he backed Secretary of State Kris Kobach's bid to become governor.

Kobach is a hard-line conservative who shares the president's views on immigration and echoes his unproven assertions about voter fraud in U.S. elections. He's in a tight race against incumbent Republican Gov. Jeff Colyer and insurance commissioner Ken Selzer among others.

Trump named Kobach to help lead a post-2016 election commission aimed at uncovering voter fraud. The group disbanded this year after finding no evidence of fraud in the presidential election as Trump had claimed after losing the popular vote.

Kobach also is a staunch anti-tax conservative who promises to continue former Gov. Sam Brownback's approach of sweeping tax cuts after his election in 2010. They became unpopular when promises of economic growth didn't materialize but cuts to schools and other public services did.

Colyer, who stepped in for Brownback after Trump named him to an ambassadorship, hails from the more moderate branch of the Kansas GOP that has rolled back some of Brownback's fiscal moves. An incumbent Kansas governor has lost a primary only twice since the state began holding such elections 110 years ago, the last time in 1956.

If Kobach comes out on top, Democrats believe they have an unusual shot at making the general election competitive. But their hopes could be complicated by Greg Orman, a Kansas City-area businessman who submitted petitions Monday with more than 10,000 signatures for what could become the most serious independent run for Kansas governor in decades. If he gets on the ballot and gains tractions, it could come at the expense of Democrats.

DEMOCRATIC IDENTITY BATTLES

Tuesday's primaries will give Democrats another opportunity to work through internal divides between progressives and more mainstream liberals and moderates.

An eastern Kansas district anchored in Kansas City will decide whether to nominate labor lawyer Brent Welder, a former presidential campaign aide to Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, to face Rep. Kevin Yoder in a district that narrowly opted for Hillary Clinton in 2016.

Welder campaigned with Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the democratic socialist who ousted a top Democratic House leader in a New York City primary in June.

In a suburban Detroit district, three mainstream Democrats are viewed as leaders to vie for a GOP-held seat in November: former legislator Tim Greimel, endorsed by Sen. Carl Levin; Suneel Gupta, a tech executive and entrepreneur and younger brother of Dr. Sanjay Gupta of CNN; and Haley Stevens, who ran the Obama administration's auto bailout program.

In the outside lane is Fayrouz Saad, who'd be the first Muslim woman in Congress. She doesn't have Welder's momentum, but she backs single-payer health insurance and other progressive policy ideas, and hopes that her better-funded rivals split most of the votes, allowing her to squeeze through.

In suburban Seattle, three Democrats are vying in a jungle primary for the seat held by Rep. Dave Reichert, who is retiring. That likely means that just one of pediatrician Kim Schrier, attorney Jason Rittereiser, and former federal public-health official Shannon Hader will advance along with Republican state Sen. Dino Rossi.

Ritteresier backs single-payer health care. Shrier boasts support from EMILY'S List and Planned Parenthood. Hader counters with labor endorsements.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee hasn't taken sides in those races, but national Democrats say they are bullish on all three seats regardless of Tuesday's outcome.

FALL RACES COME INTO FOCUS

Two critical races that could determine which party controls the Senate will come into focus Tuesday. Missouri's Claire McCaskill began the cycle presumed to be the most vulnerable Democratic incumbent. Since then, she's smoked her top Republican rival, Attorney General Josh Hawley, in fundraising, but also endured bad headlines about her use of a private jet. Tuesday's election will serve as a measure of enthusiasm for both candidates.

In Michigan, Sen. Debbie Stabenow joins McCaskill among the 10 Senate Democrats facing re-election in states Trump won. Polls suggest she's in a strong position as she awaits her GOP opponent. Among the possibilities: military veteran and business executive John James, who'd join Tim Scott as the second black Republican in the Senate.

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Associated Press writers Thomas Beaumont in Des Moines, Iowa, and Rachel La Corte in Olympia, Washington, contributed to this report.

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Follow Barrow on Twitter at https://twitter.com/BillBarrowAP .
West Hollywood City Council has unanimously passed a resolution requesting the permanent removal of Donald Trumps star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, according to Los Angeles city mayor John Duran.

The US presidents marble paving slab along Hollywood Boulevard was unveiled in 2007 at the height of his television fame as host of The Apprentice on NBC but has been repeatedly vandalised since the real estate magnate took up residence in the White House.

In a tweet, Mr Duran stated that the council have voted to put in the request with the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.

West Hollywood City council unanimously passes resolution asking the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to remove the Donald Trump star on Hollywood Walk of Fame. #horcruxdestroyed #bellicose #belligerent #unAmericanvalues #MakeAmericaintoAmericaAgain  JohnDuran (@JohnDuran) August 7, 2018

Repairs to the marker have become a semi-regular nuisance to the city  it has had a miniature wall built around it, ketchup smeared on it, a Bernie Sanders sticker placed on it and been smashed with a pickaxe - and cost between $3,000 (2,300) and $10,000 (7,700), depending on the severity of the damage.

The world famous Walk of Fame was inaugurated in 1958, and honours the leading lights of the American entertainment industry.

It covers 15 blocks of the boulevard from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue and a further three along Vine Street, and is one of Los Angeles most-visited landmarks, with tourists clamouring to seek out the stars of their favourite movie actors, singers and comedians.

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Receiving a star actually involves the honoree themselves applying to the Chamber of Commerce, making the case for their inclusion and paying $30,000 (23,000) to the Hollywood Historic Trust, part of which pays for its installation and maintenance.

The granting of the brass stars (or the decision not to) has occasionally proven controversial, however.

The likes of Charlie Chaplin and Paul Robeson were initially rejected because of their outspoken left-wing political views, before public outcry saw the ruling overturned and slabs placed in 1972 and 1979 respectively.

Johnny Grant, who chaired the Hollywood Walk of Fame Committee between 1968 and his death in 2008, maintained that: Stars are awarded for professional achievement to the world of entertainment and contributions to the community. A celebritys politics, philosophy, irrational behaviour, or outrageous remarks have never been cause to remove a Walk of Fame star.

When sexual harassment allegations against mogul Harvey Weinstein broke in autumn 2017, the subsequent #MeToo movement led to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce receiving a slew of enquiries about the possible removal of stars to celebrities subsequently accused of similar misdemeanours like Bill Cosby, Kevin Spacey and the director Brett Ratner.

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has received enquiries asking whether we are planning to remove the stars of Walk of Famers because of alleged misconduct. The answer is no, the body said in a press statement last November.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a registered historic landmark. Once a star has been added to the Walk, it is considered a part of the historic fabric of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Because of this, we have never removed a star from the Walk.

The word rapist was scrawled on Mr Cosbys star in December 2014 but it was cleaned rather than taken away for good.

A number of other controversial public figures who have stars in place including Hugh Hefner, Charlie Sheen, Jeffrey Tambor and Roseanne Barr.

Among the most shocking is perhaps Roscoe Fatty Arbuckle, the great silent comedian who was accused of the rape and manslaughter of starlet Virginia Rappe in 1921. However, the Arbuckle case is far from clear-cut and many believe the comics trial was biased by sensational coverage orchestrated by press baron William Randolph Hearst, seeking to discredit the studios and sell newspapers to a Christian right audience.

The removal of Donald Trumps star would be the first in the Walks 60-year history, itself another ignominious milestone in the career of a widely unpopular president.
Tokyo (AFP) - The wife of a Japanese journalist kidnapped in Syria more than three years ago broke her silence Tuesday to plead for his release after he appeared in a hostage video.

Jumpei Yasuda, a 44-year-old freelancer, was kidnapped in the war-torn country in June 2015, and appeared in a rare video that emerged last week warning that he was in a bad situation.

"There are a lot of people in Japan -- his family, relatives, friends -- waiting for my husband," his wife Myu told a news conference in Tokyo.

"Please return my husband safe as soon as possible," she said tearfully. "As his wife, as his family, I want him... to set foot back on Japanese soil."

Last week Yasuda and captured Italian national Alessandro Sandrini appeared in two separate videos that were similar in their staging.

Both men were wearing orange outfits similar to those of captives in jihadist hostage videos, with armed men whose faces were covered standing behind them.

The videos did not identify which group was holding the men or include specific demands.

Myu, who married Yasuda in 2008, said she had previously avoided speaking publicly about his abduction for fear she could affect negotiations for his release.

But she said when she watched the video, she felt her husband's situation was "not optimistic but urgent" and decided to publicly seek his release.

The video also prompted some of the journalist's friends and family to form a group to free him, campaigning to boost public awareness of the abduction.

Yasuda is thought to have been seized by the group previously known as the Al-Nusra Front, a former Al-Qaeda affiliate, in northern Syria.

But with the shifting territory of Syria's complicated conflict, it is unclear whether he is still being held by his original abductors or has been transferred to other captors.

In the latest video, he identified himself as Korean and gave a different name, but spoke in Japanese.

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He gave the recording date as July 25, saying he was in a bad situation and asking for help.

His wife said she had no idea why Yasuda had identified himself as Korean in the video, but confirmed that it showed him and that he is Japanese.

She said Japanese government officials were in frequent contact with her but she was not aware if a ransom had been demanded.

In 2015 militants from the Islamic State group beheaded Japanese war correspondent Kenji Goto and his friend Haruna Yukawa in Syria.

The Japanese government was criticised for what detractors saw as its flat-footed response to the crisis at the time, including apparently missed opportunities to free both men.
A student dressed in a Winnie The Pooh costume to mock Chinese President Xi Jinping at a demonstration in Taipei, Taiwan, in 2017. (Photo: Tyrone Siu/Reuters)

It appears that Chinas war against Winnie the Pooh rages on.

The latest casualty? The new Disney film Christopher Robin, which has reportedly been denied release in China.

The lovable, portly bear has been a target of Chinese censors since at least 2013 when social media users began drawing comparisons between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Winnie the Pooh. A meme  and symbol of political resistance  was soon born, one that Chinese censors have been known to suppress online.

The Hollywood Reporter suggested that Chinese officials blocked the release of Christopher Robin, a live-action/CGI movie starring Ewan McGregor, as part of the governments crackdown on images of Pooh. As the magazine noted, the film is the second Disney movie to be denied release in China this year; the other was Wrinkle in Time.

China bans Winnie the Pooh film after President Xi was turned into a meme https://t.co/2eBLObt05d pic.twitter.com/PVx4fCk2ke  Fiona Rutherford (@Fi_Rutherford) August 7, 2018

Its possible that the new Pooh film was blocked for a less nefarious reason. As The Guardian noted, China only allows a limited number of foreign films to play in its theaters every year, so its possible that the movie simply didnt make the cut.

Chinese censors have, however, been ruthless in their scrubbing of Pooh material from the web. In June, references to both HBO and John Oliver were blocked on the Chinese Internet after the Last Week Tonight host challenged President Xi on a host of issues during his show, including human rights and Chinas recent decision to abolish presidential limits. Oliver also teased Xi about the whole resemblance-to-Winnie-the-Pooh thing.

Its true. Apparently, Xi Jinping is very sensitive about his perceived resemblance to Winnie the Pooh, Oliver said. And Im not even sure its that strong a resemblance, to be honest. But the fact that hes annoyed about it means that people will never stop bringing it up.

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Chinese censors have been known to block any words or phrases deemed critical of Xi and the ruling Communist Party online. Following the removal of presidential limits from the Chinese constitution, censors began cracking down on mentions of George Orwell books and the word disagree on social media sites. The letter N was also briefly banned.

Victor Mair, a University of Pennsylvania professor and Sinologist, suggested at the time that critics may have been using the term N > 2, with N (a signifier for an unknown quantity) referring to Xis possible terms in office.

Pooh was also a victim of that purge.

Well, at least we can look look forward to many more years of subversive Winnie the Pooh memes. Here's a retrospective from 2013 to this week: pic.twitter.com/pqgW02gTqe  Megha Rajagopalan (@meghara) February 26, 2018

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Head injuries have plagued promising New York Yankees prospect Clint Frazier.

The 23-year-old outfielder has been on the disabled list since July 20 with migraine-related dizziness after a concussion forced him to miss time from late February through April.

Frazier is receiving daily treatment with a specialist in Tampa, and there is no timetable for his return.

Yankees broadcaster calls out Clint Frazier over head injury

His absence drew the ire of Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay on Monday, who criticized Frazier and the Yankees, who are digging deep into their outfield depth chart with injuries to Aaron Judge and Jacoby Ellsbury.

Shame on the Yankees for not having the depth, Kay said on YES Network Monday. But again, shame on guys like Jacoby Ellsbury for not getting healthy. Shame on Clint Frazier for not getting healthy.

Clint Frazier had biting remarks for Yankees broadcaster Michael Kay after being criticized over not returning from a head injury. (AP)

The Yankees have been in a slump and now sit nine games behind the Boston Red Sox in the AL East after being swept in a four-game series by their rivals over the weekend.

Kay claims he was joking about Frazier criticism

Kay drew flak from fans for his criticism of a man suffering head injuries and tried to walk back his statement later Monday as if he were joking.

You know I was being facetious, right? https://t.co/bUZcZwzYXi  Michael Kay (@RealMichaelKay) August 6, 2018

Frazier tells Kay to keep his name out of his mouth

Frazier wasnt having Kays response and came back hard at Kay on Twitter Monday night.

.@RealMichaelKay facetious or not, I dont appreciate what you said today. im doing everything I can to get healthy so I can play symptom free  so steer clear of publicly calling me out for not when we havent even had one convo about my concussion this year. #ShameOnYouBro  Clint Frazier (@clintfrazier) August 7, 2018

Frazier is certainly frustrated professionally with not being able to play and concerned as a human being having to deal with head injuries at such a young age.

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Its understandable if he doesnt have much patience for a broadcaster publicly shaming him over brain trauma.

MLB video from Yahoo Sports



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Backlash against Alex Jones grew to a new level on Monday as YouTube announced that it was terminating the far-right conspiracy theorists channels in the wake of similar suspensions and removals by Facebook, Apple and Spotify.

The moves targeting Jones follow years of complaints and concerns about the false information spewed by him and his InfoWars website and media platform, as well as a recent defamation lawsuit against him over his conduct. Many were left wondering why, given how widely discredited Jones and his crew have been, the companies finally acted.

Matt Rivitz, who helps run the Twitter account Sleeping Giants, which pressures companies to distance themselves from far-right groups, expressed the question The New York Times on Monday.

When they say, Weve determined he violated the terms, the timing is very puzzling because hes been saying this stuff for years and they havent done anything, Rivitz said.

Others chimed in on Twitter with similar comments.

Obviously Alex Jones is a piece of shit. Im just shocked these companies supported him for so long. He shouldve had his oxygen cut off long ago.  Andrew Barber  (@abarber1) August 6, 2018

Why did it take so long for Alex Jones to get bounced? Because more people fear sex than hate speech. If he showed boobs on his platform, he'd have gotten shut down right away. Hate speech brings in viewers, clicks, and dollars.  one Wolf (@GroverTMuldoon) August 6, 2018

Facebook and Youtube, in statements released to the media on Monday, said that the decision to revoke his access follows Jones violating prior suspensions and rules in recent weeks.

Facebook, which removed four pages controlled by him on Monday, handed Jones a 30-day ban last month for allegedly violating its policies on bullying and hate speech. At the time of that ban, the company warned that Jones pages risked being banned because of repeat violations, CNBC reported.

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Spotify, which removed several of Jones radio episodes last week, also said the decision to strip his content followed Jones violating its policy that bans hate speech.

Apple followed Spotifys lead on Sunday, removing Jones podcasts and saying that the company does not tolerate hate speech. Despite removing the content from iTunes and the Podcast app, Apple has allowed the Infowars downloadable app to remain in its App Store.

Jones was hit with a defamation lawsuit in April over his claim that the 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut  where a shooter killed 20 small children and six adults  was faked.

Late last month, the parents of Sandy Hook victim Noah Pozner, a 6-year-old killed in that attack, penned an open letter to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg. It detailed the years of fear they have experienced since fringe groups began hunting them on social media. Noahs parent  Leonard Pozner and Veronique De La Rosa, who filed the lawsuit against Jones in April  said theyve had to move numerous times after onslaughts of harassment and death threats.

Our families are in danger as a direct result of the hundreds of thousands of people who see and believe the lies and hate speech, which you have decided should be protected, their letter read. What makes the entire situation all the more horrific is that we have had to wage an almost inconceivable battle with Facebook to provide us with the most basic of protections to remove the most offensive and incendiary content.

Pozner and De La Rosa called on Facebook to treat victims of mass shootings as a protected group in a specific company policy and provide access to victims to Facebook staff who will remove harassment against them when reported immediately.

YouTube temporarily suspended Jones account in February after his attacks against students pushing for tougher gun laws after a mass shooting at their high school in Parkland, Florida, left 17 people dead. Jones specifically targeted student survivor David Hogg. Jones also uploaded a video entitled, David Hogg Cant Remember His Lines In TV Interview, implying the teenager was a crisis actor.

Jones video was removed by YouTube for violating the sites bully and harassment policy. The website instituted a temporary ban on the channel after Jones uploaded a video with similar accusations against Hogg and other Parkland students.

Related...

Alex Jones Decries YouTube's Temporary Ban On Infowars, Asks Parkland Teen To Debate

Alex Jones Is Finally Getting The Defamation Lawsuit He Deserves

Apple Removes Alex Jones and Infowars Podcasts From iTunes

Facebook Removes Alex Jones And InfoWars Pages

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New York City officials will vote this week on whether or not to cap the number of ride-sharing vehicles from apps like Uber and Lyft at the current level and bar any new vehicles from operating, save those that are handicap accessible.

MORE: Uber rethinks autonomous efforts in Pittsburgh in wake of fatal Arizona crash

As the The New York Times reported Monday, this has caused a stir among both traditional taxi and ride-hailing drivers alike, many of whom showed support for the cap, which would be the first of its kind among major American cities. As cab driver S.N. Singh told The Times, there will be more wages for the drivers and things will get better.

Drivers that are in support of the bill, both from taxi companies and within Uber and Lyft, claim that a spike in traffic, drop-off in productivity, and steep decline in the value of taxi medallions from over $1 million down to less than $200,000 are all results of ride-sharings currently unchecked rise in the city. In the last few months, six taxi and ride-sharing drivers have committed suicide, some claiming financial hardship as the primary motive.

Ford Fusion Hybrid Taxi

The companies that operate these vehicles, on the other hand, have an opposite perspective on the matter.As Uber spokesperson Josh Gold said in a statement, it boggles the mind that the Council would take action to help drivers with an earnings bill while at the same time hurt drivers who can least afford to pay higher rental costs through a cap bill.

The number of ride-sharing vehicles in the city has surged to over 100,000 today from just about 63,000 in 2015, causing drivers to sit idly for hours at airports, parking lots, and other locations to wait for rides that are becoming increasingly scarce. Uber, however, also argues that the rise in available vehicles has helped accessibility for those not on the island of Manhattan, who have fewer public transit options and are fed up with the higher rate of delays and service cancellations on the subway and buses in recent years.

City Council members are also set to vote on a number of other similar proposals, which would set minimum pay rules for app drivers, and could decide to vote as early as Wednesday of this week.




Harare (AFP) - Twenty-seven supporters of Zimbabwe's MDC opposition party were released on bail Tuesday over alleged violence at last week's post-election protests that triggered a security crackdown.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, declared winner of the historic first elections since the downfall of Robert Mugabe, has vowed to protect rights since his re-election but the opposition say their members have been targeted.

"We are very pleased obviously that they have been released," defence lawyer Denford Halimani told AFP following the hearing at Harare's magistrates court.

Prosectors had opposed bail, saying the accused -- 19 men and eight women -- were "linked" to the deaths of six people when the army opened fire on opposition supporters protesting against alleged election fraud.

At least five of the accused are polling agents who had been visiting MDC headquarters to hand in polling returns and collect travel expenses, according to the defence.

Halimani said that the 27 were required to post bail of $50 (43 euros) and have to report to Harare police station on Friday, but were not forced to surrender their passports.

"The magistrate said the state seemed not to be prepared," he said, adding that they would return to court on September 4 for a bail review.

"We have advised them to lay low and not to engage in any activities that might result in other charges. This system thrives on harassing people."

The 27 denied the charges.

Wednesday's bloodshed sparked an international outcry and raised grim memories of post-election repression under Mugabe before he was ousted last year.

Mnangagwa has accused the MDC -- the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) -- of fomenting the unrest, but also said he would set up an independent commission to investigate the killings.

The MDC has also accused the security forces of abducting and beating opposition activists and their families since the knife-edge election result was declared early Friday.
By MacDonald Dzirutwe HARARE (Reuters) - Zimbabwe's main opposition said on Monday security forces were abducting its members in night raids to intimidate the party and stop it challenging President Emmerson Mnangagwa's win in national elections. Six people were killed in an army clampdown last week after violent protests and amid opposition claims of vote-rigging, in scenes reminiscent of the long rule of Robert Mugabe, when the security forces became a byword for heavy-handedness. Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has rejected Mnangagwa's victory, which made him the first elected head of state since Mugabe's removal from power in November, and has promised to use legal and constitutional means to challenge the poll outcome. His spokesman Nkululeko Sibanda said lawyers would announce on Tuesday when Chamisa will launch a formal challenge to the election result in court. Sibanda told Reuters that masked soldiers had abducted several MDC members in raids late at night and at dawn over the weekend in the capital Harare and assaulted people in townships, echoing Mugabe-era tactics against opponents. He said soldiers had also visited the homes of opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) chairman Morgen Komichi and party youth leader Happymore Chidziva, but the two were in hiding. "The military is trying to discourage and to prevent anything and people from resisting the electoral theft by abducting and torturing people, but this will all come to nothing," Sibanda said. "We have these things, but people are not swayed." Amnesty International says more than 60 people were arbitrarily arrested in a "vicious campaign of torture, intimidation and suppression of dissenting voices." Chamisa is under pressure from angry supporters to indicate his next move after disputing the vote. The 40-year-old leader is faced with three choices, to accept defeat and move on, challenge the results in court or mobilise supporters for mass protests, which could lead to more bloodshed. Army spokesman Overson Mugwisi did not respond to calls and questions send by Reuters. Police spokeswoman Charity Charamba said she was not aware of the abductions, adding "everyone has a right to report such incidences to the police." Anti-riot police and their water cannon left the MDC offices from where they were camped from last Wednesday. Mnangagwa has said the army's use of violence in Harare after the vote would be investigated independently, although he also suggested he understood the resort to military force, remarking that police were overwhelmed by opposition protesters. On Monday, 27 MDC members were appearing in court to seek bail after they were arrested during last week's violence. "They simply want to instil fear into our people," MDC secretary general Douglas Mwonzora said. Zimbabweans had hoped the first post-Mugabe polls would move the country away from a history of disputed elections. Mnangagwa faces the challenge of persuading the international community that the army crackdown and lapses in the election process will not derail his promise of political and economic reforms needed to fix a failing economy. (Reporting by MacDonald Dzirutwe, Editing by William Maclean)
Poland has obtained a World War II-era archive that documents the efforts of Polish diplomats in Switzerland to get Jews out of Europe by issuing phony passports from Latin American countries.

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The Culture Ministry and the Auschwitz-Birkenau state museum announced Monday that Poland had obtained the archive after more than a year of negotiations with a private owner in Israel.

Archive photo

The ministry and the museum said 330 people were known to have survived the Holocaust as a result of having one of the faked passports and another 387 were killed despite having the false documents. The fate of 430 others has not been determined.

The rescue effort was led by the Polish ambassador to Switzerland, Aleksander Lados, and included three other Polish diplomats and two representatives of Jewish organizations. The archive is named for one of the Jewish representatives, Rabbi Chaim Eiss, who died of a heart attack in late 1943.

Poland's purchase of the archive comes as the Polish government is working to emphasize the help some Poles provided Jews during Nazi Germany's occupation of the country.

The archive provides "irrefutable proof that Poles, the Polish state, its representatives, systemically and institutionally, were involved in saving Jews during World War II," Culture Minister Piotr Glinski said.

The collection includes eight Paraguayan passports forged by the Polish diplomats; photos of Jews seeking to obtain the documents; and letters between the Polish diplomats and Jewish organizations.

The documents will go on display for several months in Bern, Switzerland, before becoming part of the collection at the Auschwitz museum, which is also a memorial to the victims of the Nazi death camp where some 1.1 million people, most of them Jews, were killed.
MODESTO - Police said Monday that they are looking for two men who beat a Sikh man and spray-painted a neo-Nazi symbol on his truck in what they're calling a hate crime.

Surjit Malhi told KOVR-TV that he was putting up campaign signs for local Republicans at night when two men ambushed him, throwing sand in his eyes before beating him in the head, shoulders and neck on July 31 in Keyes, California, about 90 miles (145 kilometers) east of San Francisco.

Malhi, 50, said the men screamed at him to "go back to your country" before spray-painting the same message and a white supremacist symbol on his truck. The men were wearing black hoods and had blue eyes, he said.

The symbol the men spray-painted on his truck is the white supremacist version of the Celtic Cross, according to the Anti-Defamation League.
The Israeli Mossad was reportedly behind the assassination of Syrian missile scientist Dr. Aziz Asber, the New York Times reported on Monday, citing a senior Middle East intelligence source.

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Asber was killed in an explosion in his car along with his driver several minutes after leaving his home in Hama on Saturday night.

After watching him for months, the Mossad reportedly planted a bomb in his car, according to the report by David M. Halbfinger and Ronen Bergman.

Dr. Aziz Asber

The source quoted by the Times, a member of an intelligence agency in the Middle East that was updated on the operation, said this was the fourth time over the past three years that Israel had eliminated a weapons scientist at a foreign nation.

By Israeli law, only the prime minister can authorize an assassination operation by the Mossad. Spokespeople for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman declined to respond to the Times report.

Some six months ago, Lieberman noted that "there are hundreds of explosions and assassinations in the Middle East every day, and every time they try to pin it on Israel."

Dr. Asber was involved in Syria's chemical weapons development as well as in the Iranian Fateh missiles program. He worked on the development of medium- and long-range missiles as well as building a solid-fuel plant for missiles and rockets.

He headed Sector 4, a top-secret unit at the Scientific Studies and Research Center in Masyaf developing rockets and ballistic missiles, where he was working on retrofitting the Syrian SM600 Tishreen to turn them into precision-guided missiles with the help of Iran's Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani.





One of the Sector 4 facilities

Israel has been working to foil Iranian military entrenchment in Syria, fearing that when the civil war raging in the country is over, the pro-Iranian Shiite militias helping the regime of President Bashar Assad, including Hezbollah, would turn their sights on Israel.

According to the Times, Asber was also working in recent years on the construction of a new underground weapons factory to replace the one destroyed in an Israeli strike last year.

He was considered a close associate of Syrian President Bashar Assad and worked directly under him, with no mediation. He also had close ties with Iranian and North Korean scientists as well as with Hezbollah. He was also involved in coordinating Iranian and Hezbollah operations in Syria, according to the Times.

An official from the pro-Syrian alliance told the Times he believed Israel targeted Asber because of the central role he had in Syria's missile program, even before the eruption of the 7-years-old civil war.

In recent years, the Israeli Air Force has attacked many targets in Syriabelonging to both the Syrian regime and the Iranian Revolutionary Guardswhich were defined as strategic threats.

Recently, Israel learned the Scientific Studies and Research Center has become home to arms factories producing weapons for Syria, Hezbollah and IRGC forces in Syria.

Last September, Israel attacked the main factory run by Dr. Asber in Masyaf. Iranians began re-building the same plant this summer, this time underground, and industrial machines brought in for the plant were moved to storage elsewhere. Many of them were destroyed in a missile attack on July 22.

Aziz Asber

The Scientific Studies and Research Center in Syria has been under Western surveillance for a long time, and both the United States and France have imposed economic sanctions on it.

Prior to the Syrian civil war, the center both produced and stored chemical weapons in various sites that have either been destroyed or abandoned. Some 10,000 workers were employed, developing and manufacturing biological, chemical and nuclear weapons.

In a previous bombing of one of the centers storage facility in Al-Safir, 15 Syrians and Iranians were killed, an action that Damascus blamed on Israel. Even though Israel has never assumed responsibility for both this bombing or the current assassination on Syrian soil, the Mossad has a long history of assassinating weapon scientists who have been perceived as a threat.

In the late 1970s, Mossad agents stabbed an Egyptian scientist to death, and poisoned two Iraqi developers working on the Saddam Hussein nuclear program.

In 1990, the Mossad assassinated a Canadian rocket scientist who was working on a type of super-cannon, which could launch shells from Iraq to Tel Aviv.

In the past 11 years, six Iranians, most of whom were involved in the Iran nuclear program, were assassinated.

General Hassan Muqaddam, commander of Irans Revolutionary Guard research and development unit, who was in charge of the missile program, was assassinated seven years ago along with 16 of his men in an office building they were working from.

It has previously been reported that Israel was also behind the assassination of other Syrian civilians: One of whom was associated with the Assad regime nuclear program, and was assassinated in 2008.

In addition, a senior Hamas official who was responsible for acquiring sophisticated weapons from Iran was assassinated in Dubai in 2010. Hezbollah's head of research and development was assassinated in Beirut in 2013 and two Hamas scientists were assassinated in 2016 in Kuala Lumpur and Tunis.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Bezeq majority shareholder Shaul Elovitch allegedly had a secret meeting in 2015 ahead of an important discussion at the Cable and Satellite Broadcasting Council on the merger of telecommunications giant Bezeq and satellite TV company Yes.

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Police are investigating suspicions the prime minister and the businessman had a quid-pro-quo relationship in which Bezeq enjoyed regulatory benefits in return for favorable coverage of the Netanyahu family on Walla! News, which is owned by the telecommunications giant. Both Netanyahu and Elovitch concealed the conflict of interest and only later, under court order, revealed that they met several times

As part of the investigationalso known as Case 4000 or the Bezeq corruption affairpolice have collected testimonies according to which the 2015 meeting concerned the planned merger, and Elovitch, then the owner of Bezeq, was satisfied by the outcome of the meeting.

Shaul Elovitch; PM Netanyahu (Photo: EPA, Yuval Chen)

Inside sources said that because of the prime minister's busy schedule, the meeting was held at the Prime Minister's Residence in Jerusalem, and that Elovitch was brought in through a back door.

Investigators in the police's National Financial Investigations Unit are looking into this meeting, which they believe demonstrates the close ties between Netanyahu and Elovitch.

Police also have information that in either this meeting or in another meeting between the two at the official residence, then-Communications Ministry Director-General Shlomo Filber who is now a state's witness in the casewas waiting outside the door.

The Bezeq-Yes merger, which began taking shape in March 2015, was approved three months later by the Cable and Satellite Broadcasting Council. It also received the approval of Netanyahu, who was also the communications minister at the time.

Bezeq shareholders approved the acquisition of Yes50 percent of which was already owned by Elovitchfor NIS 600 million.

When news of the deal first became public, questions began to emerge about Bezeq's decision to make this acquisition, which did not make sense economically, as at the time Yes's worth was estimated at no more than NIS 300 million. Later, it transpired that senior Bezeq and Yes executives manipulated the financial records.

Jack Chen, who represents Elovitch, said that "the Cable and Satellite Broadcasting Council's decision on the Bezeq and Yes merger was in June 2015. The prime minister and Mr. Elovitch didn't meet at all in the months preceding this decision, and in any case the Bezeq-Yes merger did not come up in any meeting or conversation between the twonot with regards to a meeting or a decision of some sort, nor in any other context."

"The decision by the Anti-Trust Authority, which was made in March 2014, also has no connection and can have no connection to any meeting between the prime minister and Mr. Elovitch. This decision was made after a six-months-long public hearing held by the authority, and to the best of Mr. Elovitch's knowledge, the prime minister did not have and could not have had anything to do with this decision. In any case, the two did not discuss this matter either. Therefore, the report is denied entirely and has no leg to stand on," the lawyer added.

A response on behalf of the prime minister said: "Another false leak; this never happened. The issue of the Bezeq-Yes merger was not discussed in any meeting between the prime minister and Elovitch, not even a word."
The IDF attacked with tank fire a Hamas position near Beit Lahiya in the northern Gaza Strip on Tuesday, killing two members of the terror group's military wing.

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The Hamas fighters opened fire at IDF soldiers, prompting retaliatory tank fire. The Gaza Ministry of Health provided a different version, reporting a drone strike. No Israeli troops were hurt in the incident.

Footage of the incident released by the IDF shows two men in a watchtower, one appears to open fire as puffs of smoke burst in front of him. The video then cuts to separate footage of a shell hitting the post and an explosion.

Hamas terrorists open fire at IDF, army responds (  ")

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"The IDF will act against any offensive intention and any attempt to attack our forces, and considers the Hamas terror organization responsible for everything that happens in the Gaza Strip and from it," the IDF said in a statement.

The IDF estimates at least one of the two terrorists who opened fire at the troops is a Hamas sniper.

The 9th Battalion of the 401st Brigade shelled the manned Hamas position with a Merkava Mark IV tank mere minutes after the troops came under fire. Unlike previous incidents, the IDF returned fired immediately, without waiting for Hamas personnel to evacuate the position.

The incident did not affect the construction of Israel's underground obstacle on the Gaza border, which continued near the area of the incident.

IDF attacks Hamas position in response (Photo: IDF Spokesman's Office)

The Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades identified the killed fighters as Ahmed Mourjan and Abdel Hafez al-Silawi, both 23 years old.

In a statement, the Qassam Brigades said it "mourns the two Mujahedeen" and that they had been "martyred in a Zionist bombardment."

Hamas vowed to avenge its fighters, blaming Israel for the incident.

"We view Israel's attack of the al-Qassam Brigades' outpost, which caused the death of two fighters, very gravely," Hamas said in a statement. "The resistance will not accept a policy of attacking its positions and fighters without Israel paying the price."

The terrorists that opened fire on the IDF (Photo: IDF Spokesman's Office)

Security coordinators in Israeli communities near the Gaza border have asked residents to stay close to shelters due to fears Hamas would retaliate by firing rockets at Israel.

Meanwhile, a fire broke out in the Kissufim forest as a result of an incendiary kite from Gaza. KKL personnel quickly arrived at the scene and gained control of the blaze.

Incendiary kites found in Kissufim forest

Earlier Tuesday, firefighterswith help from the IDF, KKL the Nature and Parks Authority and security coordinators in the Gaza border communitiesput out four other fires started by incendiary kites and balloons.

Israel has lost tracts of farmland and forest to fires started by kites and helium balloons laden with incendiary material which have been flown over the border by Palestinians in Gaza.





Incendiary device which was attacked to kite found in Kissufim forest

IAF aircraft have attacked several incendiary balloon cells in recent days, with the latest strike taking place Monday.

The incident takes place while a delegation of very senior Hamas officials, led by Hamas Deputy Chairman Saleh al-Arouri, is in the Gaza strip to discuss a UN-proposed ceasefire agreement with Israel.

Hamas's political leadership met with the organization's military wing on Monday to discuss their battle readiness after the Israeli Security Cabinet concluded a meeting Sunday with the statement "the IDF is prepared for any scenario."

During the meeting, the Hamas leadership was briefed about the joint situation room shared by the different Gaza Palestinian factions' military wings.

The Israeli Cabinet met on Sunday to discuss a proposed ceasefire agreement with Hamas mediated by the UN and Egypt. During the meeting, IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot briefed the ministers on the situation in the strip. While the ministers discussed the plan, they made no decisions on the matter and were not asked to approve it.

The plan, mediated by UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Nickolay Mladenov and Egyptian intelligence, is the first stage in the effort to reach a broader agreement between Hamas and Israel.

But there was not much optimism among the ministers. The chances of reaching a broader, long-term agreement with Hamas were very low, since there are too many obstacles on the way and it is doubtful the gaps can be bridged.

Hamas demands the release of high value prisoners in return for advancing negotiations for the release of civilians and the return of IDF soldiers' remains. Israel, meanwhile, objects to releasing high value prisoners, and conditions any broad agreement in a resolution to the issue of MIAs and POWs.
LONDON - European companies can be protected from new US sanctions on Iran, a junior British foreign minister said on Tuesday, after President Donald Trump withdrew from an international agreement designed to deny Tehran the ability to build nuclear weapons.

As Washington's so-called snapback sanctions are reinstated on Tuesday, a new EU law to shield European companies will also take effect to try to mitigate what EU officials say is their unlawful reach beyond US borders.

"If a company fears legal action taken against it and enforcement action taken against it by an entity in response to American sanctions then that company can be protected as far as EU legislation is concerned," Alistair Burt, the British minister of state for the Middle East, told BBC radio.

"It is a commercial decision for companies whether they continue to work in Iran."
WASHINGTON - The first set of US sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early Tuesday under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, targeting financial transactions that involve US dollars, Iran's automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

In an early-morning tweet, Trump said the re-imposition of sanctions mean, "Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States."

"I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!"
The head of the High Follow-Up Committee for Arab Citizens of Israel, former MK Mohammad Barakeh, will meet with EU Foreign Policy chief Federica Mogherini as part of the committee's fight against the controversial Nationality Law.

Barakeh said the law's passing constitutes racist conduct by the Israeli government against the Arab public, adding "We're confident this law will be cancelled, even if it entails bringing down (Prime Minister) Netanyahu."
Hamas vowed Tuesday to avenge the death of two of its fighters, who were killed in a retaliatory Israeli attack on one of the organizations' positions on the Gaza border.

"We view Israel's attack of the al-Qassam Brigades' outpost, which caused the death of two fighters, very gravely," Hamas said in a statement.

"Israel is responsible for the escalation. The resistance will not accept a policy of attacking its positions and fighters without Israel paying the price."
Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman praised Tuesday the reinstatement of US sanctions on Iran, noting the money the ayatollah regime got from the lifting of sanctions under the 2015 nuclear deal helped fund terrorism.

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"The renewal of sanctions on Iran is a necessary step, particularly from those who are fighting terrorism," Lieberman said during a visit to the Golan Heights to watch an Armored Corps training exercise.

Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman (Photo: Avihu Shapira)

"The (nuclear) agreement brought billions of dollars to the regime (in Iran), which used that money not for the benefit of its citizens, but for terrorism and subversion all across the Middle East," he added.

Lieberman at Armored Corps training exercise in Golan Heights (Photo: Ariel Hermoni/Defense Ministry)







Lieberman at Armored Corps training exercise in Golan Heights (Photo: Ariel Hermoni/Defense Ministry)







He warned about the situation in Syria, saying "We see the Syrian army, which doesn't settle for capturing all Syrian territory, but is clearly building a broad, new army, which will go back to its previous size and even beyond. That is why we're monitoring every development and are ready for any scenario."
Israel's Arab minority launched their own struggle against the controversial Nationality Law on Tuesday, with the High Follow-Up Committee for Arab Citizens of Israel demanding to cancel it and Adalah petitioning the High Court of Justice against it.

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"We're saying these things not on behalf of a party or a movement in the Arab population, but on behalf of the general Arab public," said former MK Mohammad Barakeh, the head of the High Follow-Up Committee.

Barakeh said he sought the help of EU Foreign Policy chief Federica Mogherini on the matter and that representatives from the committee will meet with her on September 4.

At the same time, the High Follow-Up Committee also turned to the UN secretary-general as well as other international elements, asking them to immediately intervene against the legislation.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Barakeh said that "it may be that in the immediate future we won't witness any changes to the racist conduct of the Israeli government against the Arab public, but parties' platforms are going to be based on a race theory that discriminates against citizens. We demand the unconditional cancelation of the law."

Adalah, the Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights in Israel, which petitioned the High Court against the law, said it "has distinct apartheid characteristics" and denies "civil and national rights of Palestinians in their homeland."

The law, passed by the Knesset last month, defines Israel as the Jewish nation-state and downgrades the Arabic language to a "special status." Critics say it marginalizes the country's Arab minority, while supporters say it ensures the Jewish character of the state for generations to come.

Tens of thousands demonstrated against the law in Tel Aviv on Saturday, calling for it to be amended to ensure equality for the country's minorities.

Attorney Hassan Jabareen, the general director of the Adalah organization, who filed a petition to the High Court of Justice contesting the Nationality Law, said that the petition was submitted after a comprehensive review of all the constitutions enacted worldwide since the 1990s.

"There is no constitution, anywhere in the world, that excludes equality for everyone. There is no constitution that only promotes interests of the majority," claimed Jabareen.

"The apartheid regime in South Africa submitted a constitution in 1983, which emphasized that South Africa is the country of whites, colored and Asians, and that the official language is English. That constitution was a crime against humanity because it ignores the black and native population. We claim that the Nationality Law is a racist law comparable to the laws duirng the apartheid era, he asserted.

The Nationality Law is a basic law that paves way for a constitution and it gives a racist context to everything. It is impossible to talk about democracy when there is a basic law such as this one. The law changes the entire constitutional structure and therefore we are demanding from the High Court to repeal it," Jabareen concluded.

Chairman of the Monitoring Committee, Mohammad Barakeh, said that another demonstration against the law is expected to be held on Saturday and he expects that Arabs and Jews of all denominations and ethnic groups will take part in the protest.

"The demonstrators will gather at 7:30 PM in Rabin Square in Tel Aviv and continue towards Ibn Gabirol Street and the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, where the main rally will be held. We expect that those who resent and do not accept the Nationality Law, will joins us ... We are convinced that this law will be repealed even if it results in the fall of Netanyahu. There is public opposition to this law as well as international condemnation. It's a law that expresses apartheid views," Barakeh vented.

Barakeh added that the committee intends to meet with representatives from the United Nations since he believes that the Nationality Law threatens the possibility of finding a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

"The law undermines the solution to the Palestinian issue because it refers the 'Land of Israel' as a Jewish owned territory, which cancels the possibility for a two-state solution  This challenges the stability of the entire region," Barakeh bemoaned.

MK Jamal Zahalka (The Joint List) also criticized the law and labeled it as colonial.

"This is a wicked, colonial and racist law, but Netanyahu has equipped us with a tool that we did not have before. Before, we did not have a law that we could have showcased to the world in order to show how much racism there is in Israel  We will not say a word against the State of Israel because this law speaks for itself, he explained.

At the start of the event, an Arab citizen burst into the hall, claiming that the representatives of the Higher Monitoring Committee do not represent him.

"You are liars, you are cheaters and you are dictators," the man shouted, and even threateningly approached the committee members. He was later escorted by the events organizers.

EU Foreign Policy chief Mogherini and Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif (Photo: EPA)

Meanwhile, Israel is at odds with the European Union on several key issues such as its opposition to the nuclear agreement with Iran and recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

Last June, EU Foreign Policy chief Mogherini, had to cancel her visit to Israel after Prime Minister Netanyahu refused to meet with her.

One source said that "Mogherini, whose views are hostile to Israel, was invited to attend the conference of the American Jewish Committee, indicating she was not actually invited by the State of Israel.
The military wing of Hamas issued a statement on Tuesday saying that an attack by the IDF on the terror groups outpost in the northern Gaza Strip was carried out during an "exhibition" exercise of Hamas naval commando unit.

The statement also added that several Hamas leaders were present during the event and that the two Hamas members killed by Israeli forces were snipers.
Some 30 activists from the Disabled Black Panthers protested Tuesday afternoon across from Ben Gurion Airports main departures hall as part of their efforts to raise the allowance they receive from the state.

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The protesters blocked the airports exit road chanting We want justice not charity, Justice for the disabled, not for the rich, and Shame on the government. Police officers handed out water bottled to the protesters in consideration of the hot weather.

(Photo: Yariv Katz)

Disabled Black Panthers (Photo: Yariv Katz)

Other activists expressed rage at what they feel is a corrupt government throwing crumbs at them. We are here at Ben Gurion to demonstrate that the disabled are not transparent. Next time we will up the notch in our struggle, said Eyal Cohen, a leader of the protests.

(Photo: Yariv Katz)

A disabled protester blocking a taxi (Photo: Yariv Katz)

The protesters tried to explain to the angry passengers and drivers, who were honking their horns at them, that the struggle is not that of the disabled alone but rather of the whole Israeli society.

In contrast to previous protests , which had erupted suddenly and without prior warning, the organization behind the current one did announce their intentions in advance.

Previous protests involved blocking major highways and access to important infrastructure sites as well as the entrance to the homes of senior public officials.

(Photo: Yariv Katz)

The Airport Authority warned passengers in advance to arrive early for their afternoon and evening flights. Some 92,000 passengers are expected to pass through the airport on Tuesday.

(Photo: Yariv Katz)

The airports spokesman Ofer Leffler said earlier that he supports the protest but does not believe that obstructing the airport is the proper way. The tourists landing in Israel wont understand what it is about We will do all that we can so that flight schedules are not harmed.

The disabled activists have been protesting for over a year over their state allowance which has not been updated since 2002 until the Knesset raised it to NIS 3,270 a month half a year ago.

By 2022 the allowance is set to be raised to NIS 3,700, but they are demanding that it match the minimum wage: NIS 5,300 a month.
Hamas leadership concluded a series of meetings begun on Friday regarding the UN brokered ceasefire arrangement with Israel in return for easing the blockade of the strip and reconciliation with Fatah.

The delegation is set to leave Gaza and return to Cairo to report to the Egyptians.
The Hamas delegation, headed by the organization's deputy leader Saleh al-Arouri, is scheduled to leave the Gaza Strip on Tuesday following the talks on a UN-brokered reconciliation plan with Fatah and a wide-scale ceasefire arrangement with Israel.

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The delegation is expected to return to Cairo and issue an official response to the proposed agreement within 24 hours.

In the meantime, in an incident earlier in the day the IDF attacked with tank fire a Hamas position near Beit Lahiya in the northern Gaza Strip on Tuesday, killing two members of the terror group's military wing.

Hamas delegation

The Hamas fighters opened fire at IDF soldiers, prompting retaliatory tank fire. The Gaza Ministry of Health provided a different version, reporting a drone strike. No Israeli troops were hurt in the incident.

The military group later issued a statement saying that the IDF attack happened during a military exercise showcasing the fighting capabilities of Hamas naval commando unit.

The statement also added that several Hamas leaders were present during the event and that the two Hamas members killed by Israeli forces were snipers.

The 9th Battalion of the 401st Brigade shelled the manned Hamas position with a Merkava Mark IV tank mere minutes after the troops came under fire. Unlike previous incidents, the IDF returned fired immediately, without waiting for Hamas personnel to evacuate the position.

The incident did not affect the construction of Israel's underground obstacle on the Gaza border, which continued near the area of the incident.

Hamas vowed to avenge its fighters, blaming Israel for the incident.

"We view Israel's attack of the al-Qassam Brigades' outpost, which caused the death of two fighters, very gravely," Hamas said in a statement. "The resistance will not accept a policy of attacking its positions and fighters without Israel paying the price."

The incident, as mentioned earlier, took place while a delegation of very senior Hamas officials was still in the Gaza strip to discuss a UN-proposed ceasefire agreement with Israel.
BAGHDAD - Iraq does not agree with US sanctions against Iran but will abide by them to protect its own interests, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said on Tuesday.

"As a matter of principle we are against sanctions in the region. Blockade and sanctions destroy societies and do not weaken regimes," he said at a news conference.

"We consider them (sanctions on Iran) a strategic mistake and incorrect but we will abide by them to protect the interests of our people. We will not interact with them or support them but we will abide by them," he added.
Tuesday, the first wave of US sanctions are set to strike Iran, again. Iran's economy has suffered greatly since President Trump's declared the United States withdrawal from the nuclear agreement and his intention to reinstate the sanctions.

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The international markets reacted unequivocally to any contact with Iranian officials, the local currency collapsed and throughout the country demonstrations erupted with slogans that undermine the legitimacy of the Islamic Republic.





President Trump gave American and international companies 90 days to prepare for the sanctions implementation. Iran's ability to gain access to world financial markets, to convert dollars, to maintain state bank accounts, to issue bonds and sell them on the US market, to convert gold, and so on, will be limited again.

All the above measures were initiated by the Obama administration, and the Trump White House is reinstating them.

In principle, the goal is to achieve a "better agreement"; in practice, the administration signaled that it wanted a "regime change" in Iran. This is an exceptionally ambitious goal and carries inherent risks.

The protests in Iran in recent months can serve as a positive sign of the regime's destabilization  the demonstrators shout "Not Gaza, not Lebanon  Iran!" - But this is a preliminary analysis, and perhaps too simplistic. Many elements inside Iran are happy about these demonstrations, which illustrate the failure of a regime with reformist characteristics.

As far as Iranians are concerned, the regime had reached a compromise on a matter of national consensus, the nuclear program, but it turned out that the conservative right was correct: the West and the US cannot be trusted.

Now Iran is trapped in an impossible situation, say supporters of the spiritual leader and others. On the one hand, it is a signatory to an agreement that does not allow it to become a nuclear power. On the other hand, no one can conduct business with it as promised because the Americans are blocking its access to the world economy.

Qassem Soleimani (Photo: MCT)

This state of affairs is a huge victory for the internal Iranian rejectionist front, hinting at the entry into politics of Qassem Soleimani , commander of the al-Quds Force  the Revolutionary Guards' special forces  and perhaps the most popular figure in the country (and a bitter enemy of Israel, of course).

In other words, undermining the regime may lead to reforms and perhaps to substantive change, but may also to give impetus to very conservative forces that will exploit the situation to "restore order" and destroy the more moderate elements of the Islamic Republic.

Iran's problems are of course much broader than the issue of sanctions, or even the collapse of the currency exchange rate. The Islamic Republic is entrenched in inefficient government policies, subsidies, closed economic sectors, such as those belonging to the Revolutionary Guards, widespread corruption, etc. For decades, the Iranian economy has been unable to restore the rates of growth and oil production from the period of the Shah, and when the theocracy finally succeeded in doing so, oil prices have fallen and the economy has collapsed.

Putin and Rouhani (Photo: Reuters)

In November, the second wave of sanctions are expected to strike again, this time at the lifeline of Iran  oil. Qassem Soleimani, furious and fuming, threatened to destroy "everything owned by Trump" a few weeks ago. In the face of these empty threats, Trump celebrates his victory and offers  a recurring theme in his contacts with dictators  a personal summit with the Iranian leader.

However, unlike North Korea or Russia, decision-making in Iran is broader, and such a meeting would not be interpreted by the Iranians as a victory but as humiliation: proof that it is possible to sign an agreement with them, break it, and force them to come back to the negotiating table.

Here is where Vladimir Putin enters the picture. The Russian leader could propose a compromise for a new deal that would allow the Iranians to maintain their dignity. His amicable relations with Trump and the Iranian government certainly allow this. Many in Tehran and Washington hope that he will do just that.
The National Association of Nurses announced Tuesday that significant progress had been made in negotiations with representatives of the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Health on the matter of hospital violence. A short time later, the Health Ministry spokesman announced that the negotiations had borne fruit and the strike was cancelled.

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The Finance Ministry agreed to fund a significant increase in hospital security as well as additional health care staff positions.





Litzman, Nissenkorn, Kahlon (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky, Yuval Hen)

The nurses' association said that "there was a breakthrough in all the subjects that were discussed, including the heavy workloads in the wards, security at health institutions and the implementation of punishment and enforcement clauses."

The parties agreed to add 100 additional nurse positions in the psychiatric system, Tipat Chalav well-baby clinics and pediatric hemato-oncology departments. In addition, it was agreed to add more emergency room nurses, but the number will be determined in another hearing to be held by the end of the year.

It was also decided to implement the decisions of the Mor Yosef Committee, which was established after the murder of Nurse Tova Carrero, but no budget has yet been decided on.

(Photo: Yariv Katz)

Chairman of the Histadrut Labor Federation Avi Nissenkorn said at the end of the talks that "the personal safety of the medical staff is above all else." Nissenkorn added that he supports the head of the nurses association Ilana Cohen and the chairman of HMO staff union, Prof. Ben Hamo, for "outstanding leadership " and thanked Deputy Minister Health Yaakov Litzman and Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon for their commitment to solving the crisis.

"We succeeded in bringing about a significant (budget) increase to the health system while strengthening the personal safety of medical staff," said Litzman. Health Ministry Director General Moshe Bar Siman Tov said that "these are very important achievements for the nurses, but also for the entire system."

The national nurses strike began Tuesday in most Israeli hospitals after the talks reached a dead end Monday. As part of the strike, the nurses' union announced that hospitals would not perform non-urgent surgeries, intensive care units would operate in a limited format, and that the services at family health clinics (Tipat Chalav) would only be given to pregnant women at risk.

Prof. Rafi Beyar, Director of Rambam Medical center in Haifa said that 27 out of 40 surgeries scheduled for Tuesday were cancelled.

"My heart aches for the patients who have been waiting for weeks and months, and have arrived at the hospital that cannot operate on them," said Beyar, "but I understand the distress of the nurses. We experience violence all too often, not only towards nurses, but also towards security staff, doctors and sometimes other administrative staff. I think we are not doing enough about this."

Ze'ev Rothstein (:  )

On the other hand, the director of Jerusalems Hadassah Ein Karem Hospital, Prof. Ze'ev Rothstein, accepted the strike with mixed feelings and only held a protest meeting during which the nurses were instructed in how to avoid further cases of violence.

"I do not think that the solution to violence lies in security guards next to every bed in the hospital," Rothstein told Ynet. "We learned that security personnel were (often) the trigger for a violent outbreak, so I do not think that emergency rooms should have security guards in every corner, but we recognize circumstances in which violence erupts and security personnel must be able to react quickly."

"The most important thing to do is to educate staff to provide services with minimal conflicts, even under pressure and against a backdrop of stressed and pained patients families. The staff can be taught how to work with minimal friction that can lead to physical violence. It wont prevent 100% of cases of violence, but it will definitely decrease such incidents, he explained.

According to Health Ministry figures, an average of three medical personnel are attacked every day. "The nurses in the State of Israel have declared that they will not be tread upon," said the chairwoman of the National Association of Nurses, Ilana Cohen.

"We called for an all-out strike until action is taken to resolve the unbearable overcrowding and protect the medical teams and health workers. It is absurd for a nurse to take care of a patient and end up in the emergency room. The government must not stand on the sidelines, Cohen said.

About nine months ago, a committee headed by Prof. Shlomo Mor-Yosef submitted its recommendations to eradicate the phenomenon of violence in hospitals. Among other things, the committee decided to expand the authority of hospital security guards, place police officers in emergency rooms, increased penalties for those attacking medical personnel, and to develop an app with a distress button. However, many of the recommendations have yet to be implemented.
WASHINGTON - The US State Department on Tuesday urged Canada and Saudi Arabia to resolve their dispute triggered by Canadian comments expressing concern over the arrests of activists in the Arab state.

"Both sides need to diplomatically solve this together. We can't do it for them, they need to resolve it together," State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said.
A senior member of Hamas expressed optimism Tuesday evening regarding reaching an agreement for a cease fire with Israel brokered by the UN, Egypt and Qatar. He said that he expects negotiations to be completed by the end of August.

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In an interview with Turkish media the anonymous Hamas official said that the agreement is set to cover the following items: the opening of the Rafah Crossing permanently and easing conditions at the Kerem Shalom Crossing; a five year ceasefire between Israel and Hamas; returning the bodies of Israelis and captives held by Hamas; a complete end to the launching of incendiary kites and balloons into Israel.





Hamas leaders; Rally for return of Oron Shaul (Photo: EPA)

Earlier Tuesday it was reported that the Hamas delegation , headed by the organization's deputy leader Saleh al-Arouri, is scheduled to leave the Gaza Strip following the talks on a UN-brokered reconciliation plan with Fatah and a wide-scale ceasefire arrangement with Israel.

The delegation is expected to return to Cairo and issue an official response to the proposed agreement within 24 hours.

In the meantime, in an incident earlier in the day an IDF tank attacked a Hamas position near Beit Lahiya in the northern Gaza Strip, killing two members of the terror group's military wing.

Hamas leadership

The Hamas fighters had opened fire at IDF soldiers, prompting a retaliatory strike. The Gaza Ministry of Health provided a different version, reporting a drone strike. No Israeli troops were hurt in the incident.

The military group later issued a statement saying that the IDF attack happened during a military exercise showcasing the fighting capabilities of Hamas naval commando unit.

IDF attacks manned Hamas post (  ")

X

The statement also added that several Hamas leaders were present during the event and that the two Hamas members killed by Israeli forces were snipers.

The 9th Battalion of the 401st Brigade shelled the manned Hamas position with a Merkava Mark IV tank mere minutes after the troops came under fire. Unlike previous incidents, the IDF returned fired immediately, without waiting for Hamas personnel to evacuate the position.

The incident did not affect the construction of Israel's underground obstacle on the Gaza border, which continued near the area of the incident.

Hamas vowed to avenge its fighters, blaming Israel for the incident.

"We view Israel's attack of the al-Qassam Brigades' outpost, which caused the death of two fighters, very gravely," Hamas said in a statement. "The resistance will not accept a policy of attacking its positions and fighters without Israel paying the price."

The incident, as mentioned earlier, took place while a delegation of very senior Hamas officials was still in the Gaza strip to discuss a UN-proposed ceasefire agreement with Israel.
Yuma News

Yuma, Arizona - This morning, at approximately 2:38 a.m., officers were dispatched to a vehicle versus pedestrian collision that occurred in the 100 block of West 16th Street.

The investigation showed that a 60 year old male was crossing 16th Street between 1st and 2nd Avenue when he was struck by a passenger car. The vehicle fled the scene east bound on 16th Street.

The pedestrian was taken to Yuma Regional Medical Center and later flown to a Phoenix hospital in serious condition.

The only description of the hit and run vehicle we have is a passenger car with LED lights.

The Yuma Police Department encourages anyone with any information about this case to please call the Yuma Police Department at (928) 373-4700 or 78-Crime at (928) 782-7463 to remain anonymous. Remember, if your information leads to an arrest you may receive up to a $1,000 cash reward.
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- Teachers in the Upper West Region are seeking a transfer from the region

- These teachers say there is no accommodation in the region

- It is feared the massive transfer could affect learning activities

About 200 teachers in the Upper West region have applied for a transfer because there is not enough accommodation there.

The Upper West Regional Director of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Evans Kpebah, has revealed to Joy FM that the fate of students in the Upper West Region is worrying considering the departure of teachers there.

READ ALSO: Juliet Ibrahim slams Instagram users for asking Moesha to get married

According to him, the development does not augur well for a region that is already smarting from inadequate teachers and school infrastructure.

Results of students who sat for the West African Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASCE) and Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the last three years is the worse in a decade.

READ ALSO: Rosemond Brown wildly 'twerks' in new video

Meanwhile, the GES is yet to comment on this development as a possible transfer of all 200 teachers could further worsen academic activities.

Watch video below courtesy Joy News:

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- The housing minister wants landlords who demand more than one year advance to be reported by tenants

- The minister says rent in Ghana must not go beyond six months

- So far, many tenants have been pressured to pay between two to three years advance

Ghanaians have been urged to report all landlords who charge unauthorized rent fees. This is according to the housing minister, Samuel Atta-Kyea, who says charging beyond two years is illegal and thus attracts prosecutions.

The minister further states that rent laws in the country do not permit for landlords to charge beyond six months of rent advance.

Why are you going to squeeze 36 months of rent advance for the person? If you condone it, the impunity gains ground, and that is where we are, the Minister said on the Citi Breakfast Show.

READ ALSO: Juliet Ibrahim slams Instagram users for asking Moesha to get married

The lack of rent regulation has been noted as one of Ghanas fundamental housing problems. Per the current laws governing the rent, ACT 1963, tenants are to only pay between one to six months advance rent.

Speaking on the need to report unscrupulous landlords, the minister stated that reporting landlords will go a long way to address the issues faced rent allowances.

It is you the citizen of Ghana, very conscious that we must enforce laws for the sanity of the nation, who will go and alert the police that landlord X is trying to violate the law and should be arrested. And that is when the law will be meaningful, he intimated.

The head of the rent control department in the Upper East region, Adam Yaminu Kasim, is entreating all landlords to stop charging rent payments beyond six months as it is illegal for landlords to fix rents for a room.

According to him, most tenants face the frustration of paying between two and ten years advance all because they are ignorant of the rent laws of Ghana.

He is, therefore, entreating tenants to boldly file complaints at the rent control department should they be charged beyond the 6-month limit. Senior minister, Yaw Osafo Marfo has also assured Ghanaians of moves by the government to tackle the rent laws in the country.

Addressing the appointments committee during his vetting, the minister revealed that high rent advances impede development in Ghana hence the need for parliament to come out with new and amended laws.

Also, the chief rent controller, at the rent control department, Addo Soin Dombo, has advised landlords to contact the rent control department for rent assessment before reviewing their rent charges.

READ ALSO: Rosemond Brown wildly 'twerks' in new video

He added that landlords are mandated by law to contact the department for assessment before any increment in rent and if they do not, the increment by law is to be done every two years with only a two percent increment.

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- Actor Don Little has accused comedian Funny Face of sabotage

- He also said Funny Face in a way robbed him of his daily bread

- But Funny Face has responded to the allegations ordering Don Little to shut up

YEN.com.gh earlier reported the story of actor Don Little accusing comedian Funny Face of sabotage.

Don Little made this revelation in a video in which he was weeping like a baby.

According to him, Funny Face, whom he addresses as boss has robbed him of his daily bread by forcing a director to deny him Don Little a role in a new project.

READ ALSO: Don Little accuses Funny Face of Sabotage as he weeps in latest video

Don Little said in the Twi language: I was there when one director called me and said he wanted me to feature in a project with my boss [Funny Face]. But my boss told the director that if Im included in the project, then he would opt out of it.

Truly the director took me out of the project even though he is a very good friend of mine. But I was the one he took my boss number from. I dont know what I have done to Funny Face, I just dont know what I have done.

However, in new post sighted by YEN.com.gh, Funny Face has responded to the allegations ordering Don Little to shut up.

Funny face also advised Don Little not to be an idiot.

READ ALSO: Shatta Wale finally breaks silence on his the exact 'cult' he belongs to

Though he didnt speak on the robbery and sabotage allegations, Funny Face indicated that Don Littles outburst was making people insult him.

He added that he has forgiven his formerly good friend Don Little of all the allegations he has leveled against him.

To show that he has indeed forgiven him, Funny Face also promised Don Little free hugs when they meet the next time.

Funny Face wrote: I forgive u too and all da people Insultjng me over something u don't know anything about .. God keep you and guide u my brother .. keep ur head up .. it is well .. come for a hug when u see me .. it seems u going thru a lot #ChildrenPresident.

READ ALSO: Kuami Eugene finally shows his girlfriend to the world?

He has been in the news recently following report that he was involved in a near-fatal accident.

YEN.com.gh will following this interesting development and update cherished readers as updates unfold.

READ ALSO: Shatta Wale confesses the 'spirit' behind his many fights in the industry

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- The CID has arrested 11 fraudsters who attempted to withdraw monies from banks

- One other suspect is currently on the run

- They are suspected of wiring various sums of monies through a number of banks in and outside Ghana

The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service (GPS) has apprehended 11 men suspected of internet fraud.

Information obtained from MyNewsGH.com shows that the suspects, made up of both Ghanaians and Nigerians, attempted to withdraw GHC326 million from the UMB Bank.

YEN.com.gh is yet to confirm the modus operandi used by the suspects apprehended by the CID.

Source: Supplied

READ ALSO: Shatta Wale hints of presidential ambition

It has however been established that they hacked into the systems of the banks, and this eventually was eventually noticed by the UMB Bank who notified the police.

The CID consequently began investigations into the matter, and arrested 11 out of the 12 suspects.

About GH1 million of the money had already been withdrawn from some of the accounts through Automated Teller Machines (ATM) in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, using internationally accepted credit cards, even before the case was reported to the Police.

The suspects who have been processed for court are expected to reappear in court on August 9, 2018 to assist police conduct further investigations into their financial crime.

READ ALSO: Nana Addo fires Energy Mnister Boakye Agyarko

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- Head of communications at the Energy Ministry, Nana Damoah, has resigned

- Nana Damoah's resignation was after a deleted Facebook post in which he threatened to tell the true story surrounding the Ameri deal

- The minister for lands and natural resources is the substantive minister of energy

The head of communications for the Energy Ministry, Nana Damoah, has resigned just moments after he hinted of exposing all other government officials who contributed to the controversial Ameri power renegotiation deal.

In a deleted Facebook post, Nana Damoah alleged that the sacked energy minister, Boakye Agyarko, was not entirely to blame for controversies surrounding the controversial Ameri deal as there are other people involved.

"Its time for the emails. Lets play. He is to blame abi? He did it alone right? Ok? the Facebook post indicated.

READ ALSO: 5 key reasons why Akufo-Addo sacked Boakye Agyarko

Meanwhile, Nana Damoah has pulled down this post and rather replaced it with what seems like a resignation from office as the PRO of the energy ministry.

"It is only right now that I step down. May the good lord see the rest through. Thank you all," the Facebook post revealed.

Boakye Agyarko's reaction:

The sacked energy minister, Boakye Agyarko, has hinted of reacting to his firing by the president in the coming days.

Barely hours after the decision by the president to sack him, Boakye Agyarko says he would soon respond in due time.

In just 11 words on his Facebook wall, the embattled energy minister argued that "when the dust settles" he will respond to all allegations and circumstances leading to his sacking.

Background:

The $510 million Ameri power deal was signed between the Mahama led government in 2015 at a time when the country was experiencing the power crisis.

This power deal was to help bring Ghana out of the energy crisis which had cost the country millions of cedis.

However, the deal triggered a well of controversy with civil society groups including IMANI, ACEP raising issues about the cost of the power plant.

Before the Akufo-Addo administration, the NPP vowed to review the agreement if it won power and shortly after it did, the Akufo-Addo led government quickly set up a 17-member committee led by Philip Addison, a lawyer, to investigate the details of the agreement.

Based on this new agreement, the government believed a new deal will save the country a whopping amount of $400 million over a 15-year period.

Under this agreement, a new company- Mytilineous International Trading Company will take over the management of the Ameri power plants for 15 years.

The new company has offered to pay Ameri an amount of $52,160,560.00, with the government paying the remaining $39 million to the Dubai-based company so they can wash their hands off the deal entirely.

According to Boakye Agyarko, this new agreement will see the price at which government buys power to be reduced from 14.5919 cents to 11.7125 cents per kWh which will lead to a savings of $405.067 million.

The drop in the tariff of US cents 2.8793 per kWh has resulted in a yearly cost savings of about $27.004 million. The total cost of savings over the 15 year period is $405.067m, excerpts of the new agreement stated.

This new agreement by Boakye Agyarko was fiercely rejected by the opposition NDC which argued that the deal will make Ghana pay double the amount for the original contract to AMERI.

READ ALSO: CID arrests 11 sakawa boys involved in a GHC326 million UMB fraud case

Based on all these controversies, the government set up a committee to examine the new agreement only to realize the entire power agreement was a poor job done.

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- A man of God, Rev. Mark Adu-Gyamfi, has called for taxes on businesses run by churches

- According to him,. revenue from such taces will aid in Ghana's developmental agenda

The Founder of the New Life Church, in London, Rev. Mark Adu-Gyamfi, has suggested that churches should be taxed.

He explained that religious bodies that engage in businesses aside their main work need to pay taxes on the income earned.

He passed the comment at the just-ended Economic Summit organized by the Ministry of Information in Kumasi.

Rev. Adu-Gyamfi Source: GHHeadlines

READ ALSO: CID finally grabs 11 'sakawa' boys over GHC326 UMB Bank cash

A suggestion has been made to religious bodies in the country, which are doing business in addition to their religious work, to pay tax.

Rev. Adu-Gyamfi, who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Reshview International, London, noted that tax was the only avenue that enabled governments all over the world to realise revenues for development.

He stressed that it would be prudent for many of such churches in the country to pay taxes on the enterprises established in addition to their church activities.

He noted that "taxation is the price of development," and that was why it was incumbent on the government to widen the tax net base to cover a lot of people so that more revenue would be realized.

He was of the view that the country's development should be seen as paramount, so Ghanaians have to support any effort to help their country in the race of development.

He revealed that in the United Kingdom (UK), all churches had been registered and worked under the Charity Commission, to which they referred their yearly accounts.

READ ALSO: EC staff launch another attack on Charlotte Osei

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- The Bank of Ghana has reportedly indicated that it would pursue Nana Appiah Mensahs Menzgold Company soon

- The company is allegedly flouting the BoG's banking orders

- But the Zylofon Boss, Nana Appiah Mensah, has said that he doesnt operate under the BoG

YEN.com.gh has sighted posts by the Zylofon Boss, Nana Appiah Mensah, in which he issues a stern warning to the Bank of Ghana.

In one of the posts he made earlier, the Zylofon Boss termed a move by the Bank of Ghana to close down his Menzgold Company joke of the day.

He further called the move a progaganda, directing the BoG to be truthful with Ghanaians and never to use Menzgold as a cover-up for wrongdoing.

READ ALSO: Nana Ama McBrown, Nana Aba Anamoah, Dumelo, and 8 other celebrities who are most loved by Ghanaians

Nana Appiah Mensah tweeted: TODAY'S JOKE: Bank of Ghana, so now you dey do propaganda? I beg paa "Tell Ghanaians exactly what happened with the 5 or so collapsed banks you duly LICENSED & SUPERVISED for years. Please don't attempt to use our dear Menzgold to cover up . I beg make we think!"

Nana Appiah Mensah then followed up with another tweet in reply to some of his followers who raised issues with his response to the BoG and calling them jokers.

One Laryea Derek called the Zylofon Boss to order asking him to respect the BoGs orders.

@mn_appiah youre a service provider and I have watched over 5 times ur response to your Regulator which denigrates them. Respect the channels for high level discourse with ur Regulator. It is all play and jokes until the BoG bares their teeth. @senam_d @mytheoz @patrickkwabena.

READ ALSO: Kuami Eugene flaunts his 'first lady' and some fans are jealous

But in seeming anger, Nana Appiah asked Laryea to get his facts right and that BoG is not his regulator.

He went on to say the BoG does not have a jurisdiction over his business adding that all the allegations levelled against Menzgold are baseless.

Nana Appiah Mensah wrote: BoG is not my regulator. Get your facts right. I do not operate under Act 930. Therefore BoG does not have jurisdiction over my business plus the baseless allegations. We had a year long meetings with the central bank and resolved, that should have been the end of the matter.

READ ALSO: Shatta Wale confesses the 'spirit' behind his many fights in the industry

Menzgold is one of Nana Appiah Mensahs fleet of businesses.

It is said to be a risk-free investment company which trades in gold.

Since the collapse of five banks including Beige Bank, Construction Bank, Sovereignty Bank, UniBank, and the Royal Bank, Nana Appiah Mensahs Menzgold seems to be the target of the BoG.

The banks have been merged to form the new Consolidated Bank, following their failure to meet certain requirements by the BoG.

However, Nana Appiahs response shows that he knows his right and also refuses to be bullied by the BoG.

His response also sought to assure his many clients and investors that their investment is safe with Menzgold.

YEN.com.gh will follow this new development and inform readers as new updates unfold.

READ ALSO: Shatta Wale finally reveals the exact cult he belongs to

Ghana News 2018: John Mahamas Salary - Why Everyone Discusses It Now? | Yen.com.gh

READ ALSO: Dont be an idiot  Funny Face slams Don Little over robbery allegation

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- The CID boss as a law enforcer has been cited as a person who could have a conflict of interest

- The clampdown of on financial institutions is a recent campaign by the Bank of Ghana

The head of Ghana's Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Tiwaa Addo-Danquah has been mentiond in a case of conflict of interest involving a financial institution she is involved with at the managerial level.

This issue, as reported by Mynewsgh.com involves Man Capital, a micro-finance company. The CID boss is confirmed as a forensic auditor and a director of the company.

The company is thought to be struggling to raise some monies due customers. As such multiple law suits gave been filed against the budding micro-finance company.

READ ALSO: Mahama's bodyguard allegedly punched out someone's teeth but victim denies

Bank of Ghana. Photo credit: Gbcghana.com

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has in recent times clamped down financial institutions in the name of rectifying irregularities. Multiple micro-finance companies have been reported to have very weak books.

Only a week ago, five banks were forced to merge by the central bank and they are to be known as Consolidated Bank of Ghana. These were Beige Bank, UniBank, The Construction Bank, Sovereign Bank and the Royal Bank.

In the case of Man Capital, it is reported that the company is deep in debts and might soon fold up. The fear is that a worst case scenario will cause anguish to many customers.

READ ALSO: People who intentionally gave HIV/AIDS to others

The CID boss is not the only high-profile individual on the company's board. The board also includes former Minister of Tourism in the Rawlings-era, Mike Gizo.

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- The stool father of the Prampram Traditional Area, Numo Abbey, is under police investigations for allegedly organising some rituals for a group of young men

- His accusers claim he caused for their blood to be extracted from their bodies which they were later made to lick among other things as part of an oath of loyalty to the stool father

- After deciding to stay away from the group, the two have allegedly been receiving threats on their lives

The Police in Tema have commenced investigations into a case of fortification rituals involving the stool father of the Prampram Traditional Area, Numo Osabu Abbey.

A report YEN.com.gh sighted in The Chronicle stated Numo Abbey has been accused by two young men of causing their blood to be extracted for ritual purposes meant to fortify them in their land guard activities.

The two, Martey Kodie, 22, and Daniel Anertey Abbey, 23, also claimed that their lives were being threatened after they were initiated into a cult but later opted out.

The report cited a source at the Police Headquarters to have confirmed the arrest and subsequent bail of Numo Osabu Abbey over the matter.

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According to the report, the whole saga of fortification came about when Martey and Anertey Abbey, part of a land guard group allegedly created by the stool father, were invited to the latter's home at Prampram one night to receive payment for a job done.

When they arrived, they and other members of the group were introduced to a fetish priest said to have come from Kasoa to fortify them.

The priest reportedly asked them into a shrine situated in the house of the stool father and ordered to undress and squat.

They were made to hold GHC10 notes each while a fowl was killed. The fowl's blood was mixed with spices and poured in front the group and they were made to recite oaths of loyalty to the stool father and the group.

READ ALSO: 5 reasons why President Akufo-Addo sacked Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko

The priest ordered the members to lick with their tongues and swallow the blood mixture direct from the ground.

After that, they were taken through a stage of where they cut parts of their bodies with razor blades for the fetish priest to insert some black powder into the cuts.

The priest threw eggs onto their chests chest and gave them an alcoholic drink mixed with the black powder for them to swallow.

He later killed a white goat and poured its blood into a bucket before taking the land guards to the local cemetery at midnight for a continuation of the rituals.

At the cemetery, he commanded them to surround a pit in which the dead goat, bucket containing blood and other unseen items were dumped as he chanted.

READ ALSO: Martin Amidu reports Ayariga to EOCO for sending chiefs and men of God to beg

All of a sudden, a pall of smoke billowed from the pit followed by a loud explosion.

Back home and to the shrine of the stool father, each person was stripped naked and bathed with the concoction in the bucket from the cemetery.

The dead goat was used to prepare light soup, the meat fed on without breaking a single bone.

With the end of the rituals, the group members were informed of their initiation, fortification, loyalty to the stool father in all things and allowed to go back to their respective homes.

But Martey Kodie and Anertey Abbey were not interested anymore and absented themselves from further activities of the land guard establishment creating panic among members.

READ ALSO: Boakye Agyarko sacking: Energy Ministry's PRO threatens to expose all those involved in new Ameri deal

After some time, unknown persons started knocking on their windows at midnight with threats to eliminate them for betraying the stool father.

On Wednesday, July 25, the Police Intelligence Directorate at the headquarters, in collaboration with the Tema Regional Police Command, embarked on a massive operation at Prampram. The prime suspect, Numo Osabu Abbey together with 15 others, were arrested.

When the stool father's house was searched, three locally-made single barreled guns, two pump action guns, a military water bottle and an easy snap HD camera were retrieved.

Numo Abbey has since been granted police enquiry bail whilst efforts are underway to locate the said Kasoa-based fetish priest.

READ ALSO: Pastor exposes Obofour and 6 other top Ghanaian prophets who use dwarfs and mallams

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YEN.com.gh has sighted a photo of wife of Zylofon Boss, Quinrozy, and she looks very stunning.

Mrs. Rose Appiah Mensah was wearing a long gown designed with beautiful crystals of silver and gold.

Such precious gems are very expensive and not common, therefore, her dress rightly communicates her background as the wife of one of Ghanas top and highly respected businessman, Nana Appiah Mensah.

READ ALSO: Moesha kills her fans again with another wild photo

Another thing that came to the mind of YEN.com.gh is that the dress could possibly be designed by her sister, Sima Brew, the one behind the many beautiful designs of Ghanaian celebrities.

Quinrozy also has a crown fixed on her hair to show that she is indeed a queen.

The photo was shared by her husband the Zylofon Boss on the occasion of her birthday to wish her all the best in love.

Nana Appiah was full of praises for his wife whom he also called his best friend.

The Zylofon Boss also revealed that he is what he is today because of his wife.

He then proclaimed heavy blessings upon her life and added that their marriage is forever.

Nana Appiah Mensah wrote: Happy birthday dearest@gh_rozy. I am coz u are May the mighty hand of the supreme being that watcheth over Israel rest heavily over you. May he lead u with a cloud of light in the day and a pillar of fire at night. Grace, peace, joy, love and virtue shall never depart from thee. Till the end of time, ! #highlyfavoured#showedmethefaceofGod-Peniel #blessedamongstwomen #Prayertower#anchor #bestie.

READ ALSO: Shatta Wale finally confesses which exact cult he belongs to

READ ALSO: Nana Ama McBrown, Nana Aba Anamoah, Dumelo, and 8 other celebrities who are most loved by Ghanaians

Quinrozy has been out of the news and usually keeps a low profile.

In a related post made by her husband some time ago, she revealed why she is the best for him and also why he would never leave her.

They have a son together whom they affectionately call Pee.

READ ALSO: Kuami Eugene flaunts his 'first lady' on social media and some fans are jealous

Nana Appiah Mensah is in the news for a hullaballoo created by the Bank of Ghana over one of his many companies, Menzgold.

The BoG has reportedly warned that it was getting ready to go after Menzgold after the collapse of five banks.

The Beige, Royal, UniBank, Construction and Sovereignty Banks have been merged to form what is now known as the Consolidated Bank.

But Nana Appiah Mensah has spoken wildly against the BoGs alleged move, calling it a baseless propaganda.

He also said that he does not operate under the BoG indicating that the BoG has no right to touch Menzgold.

READ ALSO: Zylofon Boss goes wild; issues hot warning to BoG over Menzgold

Ghana News 2018: John Mahamas Salary - Why Everyone Discusses It Now? | Yen.com.gh

READ ALSO: Dont be an idiot  Funny Face slams Don Little over robbery allegation

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- The rapper has shot down rumours that his biological mother is dead

- Kwaw has asked for Ghanaians to disregard any information to that effect

Rapper Kwaw Kese has rejected information making waves that his mother was dead and he has abandoned the family at this time. Indeed, YEN.com.gh reported earlier that some member's of the rapper's family were disappointed with him supposedly on the issue.

But in a response to the reports, Kwaw Kese says that his mother is not dead. According to Mynewsgh.com, the "Poppin" hitmaker denies losing is mother and is in fact, angered by the rumours.

Kwaw Kese in described the information as fake news and called on all to ignore it.

READ ALSO: CID boss cited in Man Capital business as company is reported failing

Death has however not really been out of Kwaw Kese's path. About a month ago, the rapper lost his son at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.

The rapper who has two other kids was visibly saddened by the unfortunate event. He pleaded with the media to allow for the family to grieve in peace.

READ ALSO: People who intentionally gave HIV/AIDS to others

It remains to be seen what death the family member of Kwaw Kese is speaking about. But as far as the rapper is concerned, his biological mother is alive in Swedru.

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- Charlotte Osei says she possesses no government vehicle

- Media reports claim the Toyota Land Cruiser she possesses was a gift from John Mahama

- Charlotte Osei was sacked by President Akufo-Addo for 'incompetence and misbehaviour'

The former electoral commissioner, Charlotte Osei, has debunked claims of holding on to a government vehicle.

Reports from Myjoyonline.com show that Charlotte Osei had stated in a letter dated August 7, 2018, that she "returned all vehicles and other assets belonging to the Commission".

This letter, according to reports, was written to the director of administration at the commission and requested a confirmation in writing about assets she has returned and any other to be returned.

READ ALSO: How all former presidents sacked or suspended their energy ministers

Also, the Daily Guide newspaper claims that Charlotte Osei had insisted the Toyota Land Cruiser V8 she was keeping was a personal gift from the former president, John Dramani Mahama.

Myjoyonline.com further claims that the former EC Boss rather contacted the presidency to come for a vehicle in her possession which was given her in 2015, following her appointment.

Removal of Charlotte Osei

The sacking of Charlotte Osei and her two deputies from the electoral commission was contained in a statement from the presidency. This statement argued that the president's decision to kick all three officials out was based on grounds of "misconduct and incompetence."

The firing of Charlotte Osei and her deputies traces back to a 27-point petition filed by some angry workers of the Electoral Commission (EC) who cited instances of the abuse of power, mismanagement of public funds and causing of financial loss to the state as probable reasons for their dismissal.

These angry workers from the EC claimed Madam Osei fiercely abused the powers of her office in the awarding of "fraudulent" contracts to some companies including the Superlock Technologies Limited (STL) and IT Firm, DreamOval which she paid $76,000 to.

Charlotte Osei's response

Sacked Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Charlotte Osei, has indicated that she is not bothered by her recent troubles, and has thanked God for not giving her away as prey. In what looks like a coded Instagram post, the embattled EC boss referred to herself as 'the truth' passing through 'fire' in the wake of her removal.

Using an African proverb, Charlotte Osei posted; "The truth passes through fire and never burns." So far, the removal of Charlotte Osei has sent shock waves to some political critics of government like the NDC which believes the action is an attempt by the government to sabotage future elections in their favour.

What's next for new EC chairperson, Jean Mensa?

Following the loud suspicions and allegations of doing the bidding of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) which started way back in 2012 by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), it is clear for all to see that Mrs. Jean Mensa has a lot of cleaning to do.

First will be to win the trust of many as a neutral and open-minded public official whose job it is to remain politically neutral on all fronts. Her appointment comes in the wake of the sacking of her predecessor, Charlotte Osei, which has sparked anger and fury in the quarters of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

READ ALSO: 5 reasons why the modern Ghanaian musician is not talented

What is left at the EC for Jean Mensah to manage is a divided commission which needs to be amended and brought back to the standing it deserves to be as one of the powerful organs in Ghana today.

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Market Overview:

Sodium alginate is widely used in various industries including food, textile printing and pharmaceutical. Dental impression material utilizes alginate as its means of gelling. Alginate is present in the cell walls of brown algae, as the calcium, magnesium and sodium salts of alginic acid. Alginates are refined from brown seaweeds. A wide variety of brown seaweeds of the phylum Phaeophyceae are harvested globally and converted into raw material, commonly known as sodium alginate.

The use of the alginate in food & beverage industry is legalized by major regulatory agencies including FDA and European Commission which drives its demand. The growth of food & beverage industry in Asia Pacific owing to rise in population is anticipated to boost the demand of alginates in this region. Alginate is mainly used in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of controlled release drugs due to superior product performance. Therefore, the growth of pharmaceutical industry will have a positive impact on the growth of alginate market. Moreover, increasing application of alginate in bakery and confectionery will propel the growth of alginate market.

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Latest Industry Updates:

Nov 2017 Algaia S.A. introduces Satialgine DVA, a next-generation seaweed extract ingredient for dairy and non-dairy desserts. This alginate line provides a unique rich and creamy texture in desserts such as low-fat dairy flans.

May 2017 Algaia, S.A., and AIDP, Inc. announce their entry into a distribution partnership to market Algaia's alginates and other specialty marine-based solutions to customers in Canada, USA and Mexico.

March 2017 DuPont acquired FMCs health and nutrition business and divested a part of their crop chemical business. The business of FMCs health and nutrition business included carrageenan, alginates, cellulose and other gums used as food ingredients.

Jan 2017 Algaia has bolstered its growth in specialty marine ingredients by completing the acquisition of Cargills Alginate business and manufacturing plant.

Top Key Players Analysis:

With the entry of industry players in the Alginate segment, a trend of solid, volume- driven growth has been observed in the market. Key players in the Alginate market are focusing on expansions, acquisitions, mergers and new product launches. Acquisition is the main focus of the competitors in order to expand their business and increase their market base. R&D and product innovations are driving the growth of the market. There is continuous efforts by the key players to innovate their product offerings in the market.

The key players profiled in Alginate market are Ingredients Solutions Inc. (U.S.), Cargill (U.S.), P.L. Thomas & Co. (U.S.), Ingredion Incorporated (U.S.), CP Kelco (U.S.), Foodchem International Corporation (China), Kimica (Japan)

Market Segments:

The global Alginate market has been divided into Type, Distribution Channel, Form and Region.

On The Basis Of Type: Laminaria, Macrocystis, Ascophyllum, Lessonia, Durvillaea, Ecklonia and others

On The Basis Of Function: Thickeners, Stabilizers, Emulsifiers, Acidity Regulators & Others

On the Basis of Application: Food and Beverages, Biofuels, Textile Industry, Paper and Pulp, Pharmaceuticals and Others

On The Basis Of Region: Europe, North America, Asia Pacific and ROW.

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Regional Analysis:

Alginate Market is segmented into Europe, APAC, North America and Rest of the World (RoW). APEJ is expected to be the fastest growing region over the forecasted period. The key players of alginate market are dominantly present in Europe which is driving the growth of the market in this region. The richness of raw materials in Chile and Norway supports the production growth.

The consumption of the product in Asia Pacific is expected to rise due to the rapid development of the textile and food & beverage industry. The penetration of the product in the pharmaceutical industry in this region is currently limited due to their low usage in the developing economies. However, this creates a potential for the market to expand, which is projected to boost the consumption of the product over the forecast period. In Central and South America, the growing demand for jellies, ice creams, and lactic acid drinks is expected to drive the market growth over the forecast period.
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Canadian media was soon flooded with photos of customers peeling off the stickers on their "clearance" purchases, only to find that Sears was raising the price of these items that were supposed to be on sale. Although Sears promised to clear up any "erroneous" pricing, customers encountered different results. One woman found a 20 percent off jacket that had jumped in price from 49 dollars to 69, basically negating the supposed deal. When she asked a cashier about the discrepancy, she was accused of tampering with tags. No wonder Sears went out of business. There's evil, and then there's just lazy.

But when it was discovered that instead of the promised discounts, Sears was in fact raising prices, it resulted in perhaps the greatest scandal in Canadian history. Well ... since that one prime minister straight up choked a protester, anyway.

1 Bank Of America Tricks A Customer Into Committing A Crime, Then Has Him Arrested

San Francisco resident Matthew Shinnick was trying to sell two bikes on Craigslist. He asked $600 from one buyer, and received a $2,000 Bank of America check instead (this was in 2006, when checks still existed). When Shinnick inquired about the discrepancy, the buyer replied that the extra amount was "for trouble." Understandably suspicious, Shinnick took the sketchy check to his local Bank of America branch in Knob Hill and asked them to ensure it had come from a valid account.

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The teller confirmed that all was well, so Shinnick signed the check and asked for it to be cashed. He then patiently waited to receive his money, no doubt daydreaming about all the other unexpected surprises he might encounter in this magical world wherein Craigslist sales go better than you expect. Then four police officers entered the bank, kicked Shinnick's legs apart, and put him in handcuffs. The teller, realizing that Shinnick's check was phony, chose not to inform the man who had openly asked her about its legitimacy, but instead watched him sign it, thus becoming party to a felony, before calling the police on him.
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With the upcoming midterm elections in mind, Democrats are doubling down on getting net neutrality reinstated. In May, Senate Democrats managed to pass a resolution that would allow Congress to "revisit -- and reject" the repeal. But this momentum has sputtered out in the House, after Democratic representatives didn't have nearly enough signatures to force a vote, even after getting as much as one single Republican on their side.

So what's the answer? Keep screaming into the stony ears of the weathered gargoyles who govern us. And when the midterm elections come, the best thing to do for net neutrality is to vote. If you vote Democrat, rally around your local NPR-listening dingus and tell them to hold onto their jiggly spines. If you vote Republican, then get a better Republican, or try shouting at the one you're stuck with until they start caring more about what their voters want than what AT&T does. Don't vote? Start freaking voting already. If you don't let them know, you're risking a future in which the wild and wonderful web as we know it will no longer exist, and we'll all have to go back to the bad old days of having bootleg anime described to us over the telegraph.

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For significantly shorter rantings and ravings about the state of the world, please follow Cedric on Twitter.

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Clicker II said: I've stated several times that I lived in Kali for over 40yrs. My job took me all over the country with emphasis on but not limited to W. of the Mississippi. Click to expand...

Then you should know that chipping what's been cleared is no option. To be effective, the effort would need to be massive. While chips dumped on the ground might eventually decompose in some spots, in others they'll be around 20, 50 years. And during times of drought, they would become part of the tinderbox effect.Fire suppression has created a situation in most Western forests that only fire can remedy. I know of local, fairly high altitude old growth forests that are near-impossible to hike because of all the downfall. In some of these forests, the USFS has created long fire breaks, fairly wide, but who knows if they'll work in the new normal of unpredictable forest conflagrations.No current policies are exacerbating the problem. DJ was just feeding his base who mostly don't know WTF is causing/amplifying wildfires. If the Ds, the tree-huggers, the damned environmentalists are blamed, they'll eat it up.And in Trump's defense, regarding wildfires he may be as stupid as the things he says.
Neil said: Actually you can listen to a live stream of his show from a link on his website..... Click to expand...

What he believes or doesn't believe in doesn't matter to me; what matters is what he's presenting, and more importantly, what's being done to him in his attempt to present what he presents. It's quite telling when there's such a blatantly concerted effort by the huge, powerful, influential online content corporations to censor something on their platforms. Click to expand...

when you say "conspiracy theorists", are you referring to those who believe in the 19 hijackers conspiracy theory, or are you referring to those who it's applied to as a label for not buying the "official" narrative of what happened, even though they don't necessarily assert any sort of actual conspiracy theory. Also, does asserting a conspiracy theory automatically make it false, and does it make those who actually do assert a conspiracy theory automatically crazy? Click to expand...

I basically agree that they are private businesses that can censor any content they want to. As long as the state isn't doing anything to take someone's 1st Amendment rights by arresting them & throwing them in jail, fining them, destroying or seizing their studios, etc., I'm fine with that. Click to expand...

As long as we have something that's at least close enough to a free market system to allow it, people can create their own outlets for public (the Internet makes this much easier). Click to expand...

From what I've heard, in the now defunct USSR, they used fax machines to spread information around. Click to expand...

People can vote with their money; they can change the channel or station on the TV or radio, or simply turn them off. That will hurt the pockets of advertisers who spend money advertising on those TV or radio stations. They also believe in money. Click to expand...

Okay, but the government can lean on which ever one of the internet monopoly providers that has him as a subscriber, if they really want to take him offline. But, losing access to social media platforms is going to seriously cut in to his business model and make others on the right less willing to go on his shows and talk with him. This is going to seriously cut in to his business model also and make him have to scale back his operations to the shoestring budget stuff he was doing 20 years ago...when he had to buy time to post shows on short wave channels...that will never be censored, but how many people still have short wave radios today?I think he's a bullshit artist, and I don't listen to him, but what offends me is that we are being told now as public consumers of information that we're not smart enough to make our own decisions on what to and what not to believe. So, Big Brother has to step in on our behalf and protect us from FAKE NEWS! Attempts to censor information have been done in the past...and are currently still functioning in many other western nations who think they have freedom....like western Europe obviously, but even in Canada the Feds decided back in the 70's to pass an anti-"Hate Speech" set of laws, that removed books from bookstores and libraries, that promoted Holocaust hoax theories and the English translation of Mein Kampf...even though the publisher was already required to include a long forward detailing lies, inaccuracies and major deceptions contained within Hitler's rambling collection of notes.But, censorship not only removes the offending materials from public view, it also removes the counter-arguments, and provides a feeling of legitimacy and conviction to those authors who believe they're pursuing the truth, as well as with their loyal band of followers.In Europe...especially Germany, the banning and censoring of all Nazi and related materials did not stop the rise of new Nazi and Neonazi parties and activists once these countries started taking in larger numbers of non-white immigrants. The lack of information and understanding of Nazism in the general population likely makes them more inclined to follow the new generation of fascists than it would have if these subjects were out there being debated and tested.At one poiint, I wondered if Alex Jones was a CIA asset serving as a conspiracy theorist, cause he was so whacked out at it! While others who were skeptical or just refused to take government claims at face value, wanted to focus on finding evidence or questioning some of questionable assertions from the government panels regarding isssues like: cellphone calls from commercial airliners at high altitude...were these calls even theoretically possible from the phones and the system that existed in 01?- to Where Was the Air Force and Navy during those morning hours when rogue commercial airliners were flying into buildings? and somehow able to disconnect the planes' transponders to avoid detection? How did Building 7 collapse just from the damage of fires and from debris of the towers that were hit by airplanes? Building 7 could have been a controlled demolition/but I wouldn't plant my flag on it, while my suspicions that it might have been detonated are piqued by attempts to study what exactly that building was being used for...which aside from several banks and financial institutions contained several floors occupied by the CIA (undisclosed) and of course housed Giuliani's expensive emergency command center....which is why he had to spend so much of his time out in the streets that day...he had nowhere else to go!So, there are many other legitimate questions to ask about 9-11 and the events thereafter, like the Wikileaks-demonstrated cover ups that did not release certain materials or details of investigations regarding the hijackers and their conspirators at the Congressional hearings afterwards. But conspiracy clowns like Alex Jones would gravitate to the ridiculous, like saying early on that it was missiles or cargo planes that hit the towers/not commercial airliners; there were no passengers on the plane that crashed in Pennsylvania; All the towers were brought down by controlled demolition and jet fuel doesn't burn high enough to melt steel...that one which was widely repeated over the following weeks would sound conclusive to anyone who doesn't have any understanding of how metals...especially steel alloys respond to heat. The steel columns wouldn't have to melt if the temperatures were sufficient to weaken the steel enough to cause them to bend and lose much of their structural integrity, and produce a cascading collapse that would continue all the way down once it got underway.But, while there were many people asking real, serious questions, there were the loudmouth idiots like Alex Jones running around and promoting the most implausible 9-11 theories. That and other issues he's jumped in on the same way....like the Sandy Hook school shootings, started making me wonder if he was getting paid to spread confusion by promoting the most ridiculous ideas out there! I know that with 9-11, the questions by the so called "Jersey Girls," who did the most groundwork to force the government to investigate and produce even a half-assed report, have all been forgotten and mixed and muddled in with Alex Jones and others. Regardless of all that, I still don't support banning Alex Jones or other idiots out there. What we need is more information/less censorship with unnecessarily classified materials, and internet services that are either public utilities serving a global audience, or enforcement of antitrust laws and rules that are supposed to prevent the formation and continued existence of monopolies. And, however they're run, the directors should not have the ability to arbitrarily decide who gets censored and who does not!And this is how you get shackled by libertarian ideology that is so focused on government power, but has no arrows in the rhetorical quiver to deal with private power! I've said in response to liberals cheering this on Twitter and Reddit that First Amendment and other nations' freedom of speech rights are meaningless if you live in a world where one or a handful of collaborating corporate interests control access to public platforms. To me, this is similar to how (at least in Canada) an owner of a shopping mall has to follow the same bylaws that govern public spaces like a public park. A mall owner can't arbitrarily decide what kind of people he doesn't want walking in the doors of a shopping mall. Same kinds of rules should apply in online spaces, and private operators should not have the power to govern what's acceptable and unacceptable speech! If anything, that power must be broadly based and be out of his hands.How is that working in today's world of media concentration? Sure, you can go out and create your own Facebook...you think others haven't tried this? Back when MySpacer was a thing, Facebook came in and bundled more services together than MySpace could provide....Facebook went around buying up content users would want as well as buying out potential competitors...something I guess MySpace didn't think of!Yes, I've read about, and even heard personally from a few people who grew up during the era of the Soviet Union about the Samizdat system of creating and spreading real news.This likely would not have worked if the Soviets...especially the KGB had developed the sophistication of creating and dissemintating propaganda messages that the CIA developed when they started Project Mockingbird back in the 50's.Whereas the Russians created Pravda and other carefully controlled newspapers, TV and radio to disseminate propaganda, the CIA went the covert route within private news and broadcasting: they recruited assets as diverse as Gloria Steinem and Anderson Cooper, and their jobs were to include CIA-approved messaging with what they were already doing. The official Project Mockingbird ended in the 80's, but there have been many other programs set in motion to co-opt media to spread the official side of the story.What the CIA and their assets have done is create a slurry of left and right voices who can blend in with their crowds until they hear the dogwhistles blowing from their controllers...meaning even many so called alternative media sources will appear on the left on most issues until we find them repeating the same crap about regime change and Russians stealing our elections. The only tipoffs are that these sources (DemocracyNow) seem to collect generous foundation grants for some reason or other!Keep dreaming! Far from making us freer, the era of computers and the worldwideweb have found their way to consolidation of ownership and control of information. The market is not going to fix this problem!
Thankfully, the case against disgraced former pop star and impresario Jonathan King was halted this week.

I say 'thankfully', not because this convicted paedophile shouldn't be thoroughly investigated  he should  but because the police made such an inept job of the case.

When evidence is buried or ignored, when allegations are made that the courts have been misled, and when police appear to be acting out of embarrassment or vindictiveness, then the whole system of justice is in peril. That puts all of us at risk.

Judge Deborah Taylor's ruling on Monday was deeply worrying. She said Surrey Police had pursued King in a misguided attempt to hide their blushes following their failure to expose BBC predator Jimmy Savile's decades of sex crime. That is a devastating indictment of the police.

Surrey Police failed utterly with Savile. The transcript of their interview with this serial rapist, done under caution in 2009 and published four years later, makes for toe-curling reading. Officers fawned over him, allowing Savile to make a long, rambling peroration on his charity work and impeccable character, without attempting to challenge him properly.

Thankfully, the case against disgraced former pop star and impresario Jonathan King was halted this week - I say 'thankfully' because the police made such an inept job of the case

But the issues Judge Taylor raises are much wider. Her words have strong implications for the obsession in this country with historical sex offences, a moral panic ruining lives and crippling justice.

Until 2015, I was the Chief Prosecutor in the North-West of England. By the time I left the post, national expenditure on investigating and prosecuting sex cases was approaching 1 billion. According to the latest estimate, by 2020 that could have tripled.

But this doesn't mean the budget for policing has increased. On the contrary: the austere financial climate meant that, between 2011 and 2015, I had to reduce prosecution staff by 25 per cent. Police numbers were cut by 21,000 nationwide.

Without the money to keep our streets safe, forces tend to ignore non-violent crimes.

Burglaries and shop thefts frequently go without even cursory investigation. Intelligence-gathering by anti-terrorist units also suffers.

Worst of all, it was the most experienced people who left, because they were usually on the highest salaries. Those who remained were more junior, with less training, who didn't really know in many cases what they were doing, and who lacked necessary supervision.

This led to a 'perfect storm' of poorly trained, poorly supervised officers who were too intensely fixated on building the case against their suspect. They had tunnel vision, and were inclined to ignore any evidence that ran counter to their presumption of guilt. This appears to be what happened in the recent King prosecution.

To make matters worse, the defending lawyers, at least in less celebrated cases, lack the resources to do their jobs properly. Too often, they're working in their spare time. That's no way to run a legal system.

The result is that there are people in prison who should not be behind bars  and guilty people on the outside who were let off the hook. This cannot be good for society, and it seems set only to get worse.

Judge Deborah Taylor's said Surrey Police had pursued King in a misguided attempt to hide their blushes following their failure to expose BBC predator Jimmy Savile's decades of sex crime

Judge Taylor's comments suggest King's previous conviction  he served half his seven-year sentence in jail after being found guilty in 2001 of serious sexual crimes against boys during the Seventies and Eighties  made police lax. When new accusations were made against him, detectives assumed he was guilty and didn't try to reach the necessary benchmarks of proof. (There is also a concern now that King might use this shambles to try to have his previous conviction quashed.)

Their failures were shocking. Full interviews with alleged victims were not carried out, notes were not typed up until weeks later and, worst of all, evidence was hidden. The impression is that Surrey Police were not interested in anything that appeared to undermine their case. Information that should have been handed over to the defence was concealed.

I fear this is increasingly common practice. Detectives are so focused on shoring up their evidence that inconvenient discrepancies are ignored. That is not how justice should be done.

We rely in Great Britain on what is called 'due process'  a meticulous commitment to thorough-going honesty, which protects the innocent and guarantees free trials. It is every bit as important as the maxim that we are innocent until proven guilty.

My worry is that such was the outcry over the failure to catch Jimmy Savile while he was still alive that police have gone too far the other way in pursuing crimes from long ago featuring famous names.

Consider the appalling investigations against innocent men such as Cliff Richard and the DJ Paul Gambaccini. Or the pursuit of former politicians such as Leon Brittan (who died before he could clear his name) and Field Marshal Lord Bramall, whose house was raided when his wife, who had dementia, was upstairs.

This tunnel vision led to the ludicrous spectacle of a police officer calling for witnesses to abuse standing outside the house of former prime minister Ted Heath, who had been dead ten years, and the appeal by investigating officers who promised anyone who came forward that their stories would be believed.

All this highly visible police activity is supposed to make us ignore the fact that, too often and for far too long, sex offences were not treated seriously. When anyone, male or female, went to a police station to report a rape, the first reaction of many detectives was a disinclination to believe.

I am proud to say that, while I was chief prosecutor, successful cases were brought against the TV presenter Stuart Hall and weatherman Fred Talbot.

Full interviews with alleged victims were not carried out, notes were not typed up until weeks later and, worst of all, evidence was hidden. The impression is that Surrey Police were not interested in anything that appeared to undermine their case

In addition, the Rochdale sex ring of abusers of young women went to trial in 2012, months before the Savile scandal broke. But this was not nearly enough. Now, police are overcompensating  some motivated by a desire to recover their damaged reputations, others by a starstruck sensation that, if they can nail a celebrity or a famous politician, their careers will be enhanced.

As the Jonathan King trial fell apart this week, that approach backfired terribly.

I understand only too well the lasting impact on victims of sex abuse, and I believe it is right to investigate 'non-recent allegations', as they are known. In one case I prosecuted against a former Manchester teacher, his victim  who had been a schoolgirl when he abused her  took her own life after giving evidence.

And I am deeply concerned that people who came forward to give evidence against King will not now be heard in court. This opportunity has been denied them because of the incompetence of the professionals they trusted.

The police commissioner for Surrey, David Munro, has ordered an independent investigation. I have great respect for Munro, a personal friend, but I'm concerned that once again we will hear bland assurances that 'lessons will be learned'. I don't want lessons to be learned. I want people to get it right the first time.

One solution could be to open up the courts to TV and radio. Trials should be seen by the public, not treated as semi-secret or private affairs. Daily publicity in the courtrooms would encourage lawyers and police to improve their skills: they would be on show.

Cameras or not, what matters most is that police and prosecutors must start doing their jobs much better. All suspects must be treated equally, regardless of their fame or their title. No case should be pursued to the exclusion of others.

Above all, evidence must not be withheld, and the spate of recent cases in which police have failed to disclose what they knew must be addressed.

No matter what the possible effect on the verdict of a trial, all the facts have to be brought out into the light. Injustice thrives in the dark.

Nazir Afzal OBE was Chief Prosecutor for North-West England, 2011-2015.
The Duchess of Sussex once again boosted the fortunes of a fashion label as the 'Meghan effect' continues to grip British shoppers, new data reveals.

Meghan, 36, raised the profile of UK-based Goat after she chose the brand for her first official appearance following her wedding to Prince Harry, 33, in May this year.

Data released this week from global fashion search engine Lyst reveals a dress by Goat was among the 10 fashion pieces most searched for online over the last three months.

Raising the profile: The Duchess of Sussex, 36, boosted the fortunes of UK-based Goat after she chose the brand for her first official appearance following her wedding to Prince Harry, 33, in May this year, pictured. The elegant dress later sold out

Knock-on effect: Another dress by the label, the 700 Whitney in blue, pictured on a model, was among the 10 fashion pieces that were most searched for online over the last 3 months

Balenciaga's platform Crocs, Fila Disruptor sneakers and the Gucci GG logo belt were among the other items to make the list.

Lyst analysts credit the Duchess of Sussex with drawing shoppers to the brand, noting: 'Contemporary line Goat has benefitted from the Meghan effect, its occasion dresses proving to be a popular choice for summer shoppers.'

The 700 Goat Whitney dress in blue was the ninth most sought-after item, according to data.

The Lyst Index provides quarterly rankings of fashion's hottest brands and products.

Controversial: The inclusion of Balenciaga's much talked-about Crocs also show the power of media attention. The hype translated into demand for the quirky, chunky footwear

Social media favourite: The 80 FILA Disruptor trainers, pictured, were second on the list

Nineties revival: The Gucci logo swimsuit, left, and Jacquemus Saudade gathered side dress, right, show the millennials' interest in vintage-inspired fashion shows no sign of waning

Still going strong: Shoppers were also desperate to get their hands on Chanel espadrilles, pictured, with many searching for pre-owned pair in a bid to boost their chances

Analysts track the behaviour of more than 5 million shoppers searching, browsing and buying fashion across 12,000 designers and stores online each month.

The formula takes into account global Google and Lyst search data, engagement statistics, conversion rates and sales worldwide over a three-month period.

Vintage-inspired pieces proved most popular, with the classic black Gucci belt with gold GG logo buckle proving the biggest hit with shoppers.

The FILA Disruptor sneakers - a favourite with Instagram stars - came in second, while a Gucci logo print swimsuit took third.

A Prada bumbag, Celine edge sunglasses and Chanel cap-toe espadrilles, show customers still crave the biggest designer labels.

The inclusion of Balenciaga's much talked-about Crocs also show the power of media attention.

A Lyst analyst notes: 'Balenciaga's controversial platform Crocs, the subject of worldwide media attention, translated hype into demand - a second release this quarter saw the styles selling out again across retailers worldwide.'

Additional figures on the sale of individual designers reveal Gucci has stolen the number one spot from Balenciaga.

Practical and fashionable: Prada's 430 logo plaque belt bag is the ultimate festival accessory

Classic: Gucci's 320 black leather belt with gold Double G detailing was first on the list

Off-White remains white-hot; Virgil Abloh's powerful debut show as artistic director for Louis Vuitton menswear keeping the label firmly in the media spotlight as the cult brand continues its meteoric ascent.

The Meghan effect is again apparent in the rise of Givenchy, which was catapulted into the top five after the Duchess chose a Helen Waight Keller creation for her big day.

The analyst adds: 'Nike has climbed an impressive 11 places to secure the only sportswear spot in the Index.

'Championed by an international A-list of powerful celebrities and influencers, Versace and Fendi are seeing the benefits of captivating a new generation of millennial fans, while Prada's iconic nylon accessories line continues to drive brand momentum worldwide.'

Retro frames: Celine's Edge sunglasses, which retail for 399.90, are perfect for summer
A husband has turned to the internet for advice after he caught his wife of 10 years cheating during a trip to Bali to celebrate their tenth wedding anniversary.

The unnamed man, 34, revealed on Reddit that he'd left his 32-year-old wife abroad after uncovering her affair during the romantic getaway.

He added: 'To make matters worse I am finding out this man she is with may be a criminal of some sort. The locals do not like him and explained to me he may have stolen a lot of money and is hiding on the island.

The husband revealed his wife was texting once or twice a day to say she was having a good time, and had admitted to him she doesn't know what she wants.

Revealing that he's not ruled out taking her back, he begged users to 'help him see sense', and was quickly inundated with angry replies, racking up 1,400 likes and over 600 comments, most of them urging him to find a lawyer and proceed with a divorce.

A devastated husband has taken to an online discussion forum to plead for advice after he caught his wife of 10 years cheating during their anniversary trip to Bali (stock image)

Kicking off the discussion, he admitted his world had been 'completely shattered'

'I can't even begin to understand the thought process she's going through,' he said. 'It feels like being stabbed so hard in the heart. It also sounds like he's only telling her the things she wants to hear and she believes it all.

'I don't think I can stay with her after this when I get those texts but part of me keeps remembering the good times and omits the bad. Please help me because I can't see clearly right now,' he concluded.

One user said: 'Don't be that guy who looks for excuses to stay with his cheating wife. She's not stupid, she's just a bad/sneaky person. Stop texting her and get a lawyer.'

Another argued that he should be blaming his wife and not her affair, writing: 'The guy isnt the one cheating on you, its your partner who has disrespected you and wronged you.

The unnamed man, who describes himself as 34-year-old male, revealed on Reddit that he left his 32-year-old wife abroad after uncovering her affair

He was soon flooded with outraged comments from users, urging him to see a lawyer and proceed with divorce papers

Many enraged followers of the thread argued that he should be blaming his wife and not her affair

'The guy is just the person who was there by convenience. Dont hate the person being used, dislike the person who decided to break the life long commitment for a mere stranger.'

And others slammed the wife's insensitivity for continuing to message him from Bali.

One wrote: 'Kinda left a bad taste in my mouth knowing she texts you back saying shes having a great time after you left and she knows why. Probably should follow the advice and get a lawyer.(sic)'

Others slammed the wife's insensitivity for continuing to message him from Bali in the lively discussion thread
A mother has revealed how she was left heartbroken by a song that that mocked her 14-year-old son's murder because she dared to campaign against knife and gang crime.

Corey Junior Davis, nicknamed CJ, was shot in the back of the head as he sat with friends in a playground in Newham, East London last year after being caught up in a revenge attack by a lone gunman against rival gang members.

In Channel 5's Lawless Britain, which aired last night, Keisha McLeod, 38, revealed how she had 'so much anger' when she discovered a so-called 'drill' song that taunted her for speaking out against gangs.

The lyrics said: 'Mum's been shedding tears, somebody tell her I don't give a f*** that her son ain't here.'

Drill music is a hip-hop sub-genre, with many songs featuring artists threatening and provoking rival gangs, and companies such as Adidas and YouTube and music industry heavyweights such as Tim Westwood have been accused of fuelling its rise.

Last week, the ex-Radio 1 DJ was accused of making 'blood money' after a picture of him standing with two murdered drill rappers when their group Moscow17 appeared on his YouTube TV channel emerged.

Keisha McLeod appeared on Channel 5's Lawless Britain where she spoke about her 14-year-old son's murder and how she had been sent a song taunting her in retaliation for her speaking out about gang warfare

Corey Junior Davis, 14, nicknamed CJ, (pictured) was shot and killed in East London last year after he was recruited by a gang

Experts in the documentary revealed how the genre emerged from Chicago, where the word 'drill' refers to automatic weapons used in gang warfare, and claim it has fuelled the city's soaring crime rates.

Ms McLeod believes the drill song about her son was made as a warning against her shedding light on gang culture.

The unknown artist behind the song said he 'laughed' when CJ's mother buried him and insisted that gang warfare was continuing despite her campaigning.

He rapped: 'Ever since her son got dropped the whole block ain't done s***. I was laughing when I saw the pic of the mum just bury her kid.'

The grieving mother played the drill song about her son which she believes was sent as a warning against her shedding light on gang culture

Keisha said she had 'so much anger' about the song that mocked her son's murder because she dared to campaign against knife and gang crime

What is drill music and how is it fuelling London's crime wave? 'Drill' music, a hip-hop subgenre, is driving the feuding gang war in London, community leaders have warned. Hundreds of videos on YouTube feature UK rappers threatening and provoking people from rival areas. To 'drill' means to fight or scrap and the violent lyrics focus on gang life, drugs, guns and killing. In one video viewed nearly three million times, rapper Digga D boasts about having to bleach his knife after using it to attack someone. In another, entitled 'Mummy's Kitchen', rappers Loski and Mayski, who are thought to be Londoners, boast about taking a blade from the family home. In the videos, which are filmed across the city, performers take care to ensure their faces are covered. The link with fatal attacks committed against young Londoners is made clear under the videos on YouTube, where commentators speculate about which groups were responsible. Advertisement

Ms McCleod said she was angry that someone could say those words to a grieving mother.

She said: 'This is a child and these are people that aren't involved in what you're doing. When I first heard that I had so much anger in me because how could you say these lyrics to me, not of me, not of my son?

'OK your lifestyle is what you portray, my son wasn't part of your lifestyle.'

Speaking about CJ's death, Ms McLeod said: 'I was looking forward to seeing what he was going to be and thats what hurts.

'Nobody is looking upon it as that a change is needed. I believe out of all of this will come good, I have to believe that way.'

CJ is understood to have been part of a group targeted by a rival gang in retaliation for the stabbing of an 18-year-old during a mass brawl at the nearby Westfield shopping centre days earlier.

It is thought they singled out the youngster because he was an 'easy target'.

Prior to his death, Keisha had been raising concerns with social services and police for 18 months and was home schooling her son as she feared her was being groomed by gangs.

The name 'drill' comes from the automatic weapons used in gang warfare in Chicago, where the music originated from.

Ellay Khule, a rapper and former Crip gang member and an expert on US gang crime, said Chicago has more violent crime than New York and LA put together because of the drill music

Gang members deny that the music encourages violence, and say it is a former of expression. Pictured is an unidentified gang member who appears in the documentary

CJ's mother Keisha McLeod, 38, (pictured) has been campaigning against gang violence since he died

YouTube has already taken down around 30 drill videos following a request by Scotland Yard, as it claims they encourage gang violence.

In the US, rapper Joseph 'Lil Jojo' Coleman shared a drill music video of himself tying up a man that was made to look like the member of a rival gang.

Just months later he was murdered by the rival gang.

Ellay Khule, a rapper and former Crip gang member and an expert on US gang crime, said Chicago has more violent crime than New York and LA put together because of the drill music.

'Blood on their hands': Adidas, YouTube and Tim Westwood accused of cashing-in on gang wars by promoting drill music TIM WESTWOOD Last week, a picture emerged of former Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood with Sidique Kamara, 23, also known as Incognito, and Rhyhiem Barton, 17, taken when their group Moscow17 appeared on his YouTube TV channel. Mr Kamara was stabbed to death in Camberwell, south-east London at the end of July, just weeks after releasing a tribute song to Mr Barton, who died on the same street after a shooting in May. Jen Lock, from the Lives Not Knives Ealing group, has repeatedly complained to Westwood, who insists he is just 'supporting rap groups not gangs'. Mrs Lock said: 'He knows exactly what effect its having. Hes making blood money off the hits its generating on YouTube. He has blood on his hands'. It's not the first time the son of a bishop, 60, has been criticised for featuring rap videos inciting violence on his YouTube channel. In June, a judge at Kingston Crown Court in west London singled him out for criticism as five members of the 1011 gang were jailed for a total of more than ten years for plotting a machete attack on the rival 12 World gang. Tim Westwood, pictured with members of the Moscow17 Drill rap group including Sidique Kamara, circled left, and Rhyhiem Barton, circled right, who have both been murdered Judge Ann Mulligan, who also banned the rap group from making their music, said: The defendants made an appearance on the TimWestwoodTV channel, introduced as the 1011 gang. It is fortunate that video is no longer publicly available. These are high-profile videos taunting and ridiculing the 12 World gang and referring to actual fights. They reference murders, stabbings, drug deals, as well as appalling attitude to women. The videos incite violence. A month earlier, Mr Westwood was mentioned at the Old Bailey by Judge Nicholas Cooke QC, who said drill music was putting innocent people in harms way as two gang members were convicted of murdering an innocent music producer following a feud played out in rap videos featured by the DJ. Both men were murdered only yards from each other on Warham Street, Camberwell ADIDAS Members of Moscow17 claim they were paid 350 each to wear Adidas and other brands. Friends and family of murdered rapper Rhyhiem Barton allege the firms have blood on their hands because they exploit the groups often violent reputations to market their products. One friend said: They get sponsored by Adidas and Nike to post things on social media, on YouTube and Snapchat. The boys get invited into the office or warehouse, and Adidas just say take what you want in the hope that they wear it in a video. Rhyhiems godmother Lacey Main said: These companies know this has gone too far, they know kids are killing one another with the purpose of boosting their credibility, and yet [by sponsoring the music] they encourage it. One Moscow17 member, who did not want to be named, said that while the rappers did not have individual contracts with the sportswear brands, they could be paid if they wore their clothes in a social media post or music video. If you wear Adidas... you can make 350. We dont have a direct contract with them but get paid through the production company, he said. Link Up TV and Press Play Media, the production companies behind many tracks by Moscow17 and Zone2, did not reply to requests for comment. Adidas confirmed it has given merchandise to drill artists but said it condemns all forms of violence and in no way condones gang culture. Nike did not respond to requests for comment. Adidas have been paying drill rap artists as must as 350 to wear their sportswear on videos YOUTUBE In June this year, a Mail On Sunday investigation revealed how the internet giant and the film-makers make money from toy, game and film adverts aimed at children that appear when the videos are viewed. In the past two years, police have asked YouTube to take down up to 60 videos but officers are forced to prove the clips are harmful first. The site has removed just over 30 where they were found to be in violation of its policies. Reporters were still able to watch several drill videos featuring knives and incorporating adverts targeted at youngsters, despite YouTube claiming it does not allow videos with weapons. One video by A6  real-name Alexander Elliott-Joahill  has been on YouTube for a year and viewed 130,000 times. His song, called I Am God, features several members of his gang, Block 6  named after a tower block in Catford, South-East London  brandishing large serrated blades and includes violent lyrics about stabbings. YouTube viewers of the song see adverts for Marvel superhero Nerf toy guns and the hugely popular video game Minecraft. Advertisement

He said: 'The route of that is the drill music because if I'm sitting here making songs about ''yeah I killed this guy,'' all of this is going back and forward in the street too outside the music.

'So they're basically giving a blow by blow of the b******* they're doing in the street. To me that's crazy they've taken it way further than LA ever had. I'm surprised the police is not doing more because all the evidence is there in the songs.'

It is estimated that up to 70,000 people under 25 in the UK consider themselves to be part of a gang, and there has been 40 per cent rise in the number of deaths from gang stabbings in the last two years.

However, gang members believe drill music hasn't caused the surge in violent crime, and is just a form of expression.

One unnamed gang member said: 'Music's been fueling violence from even before our generation has come about. You got guys on the one hand just chatting a load of b*******, just chatting, chatting, chatting, and then you got guys on the other hand telling the truth.'

Lawless Britain continues on Channel 5 next Monday at 10pm
Hollywood said: That does not answer my question. WTF is a Canadian peso? Click to expand...

No? Alright, the canadian currency is extremely undervalued atm because the liberal economic policies make the canadian economy less competitive (carbon taxes, electricity and other energy prices etc.). To compensate for that diminished competitiveness the Canadian government maintains artificially lower exchange rate for the canadian currency. 25% devaluation since Trudeau came to power. I wonder if it would go another 25% down. That against a currency that runs trillions of dollars trade deficits. Hence the label peso.
Three Brits have revealed how carefree nights out abroad took a dark turn when they ended up in prison as part of a new documentary series.

Recruitment consultant Rebecca Blake from Surrey ended up being jailed in Dubai for three months because she shared a taxi with a man who put his hand on her shoulder.

Londoner Daniel Bransbury flashy holiday to Miami ended in a disaster when he was falsely accused of fraud while exchanging currency, and ended up in jail for two months, where he was forced to defend himself from hardened criminals.

And Josh Lomas Mears from Lancashire wound up in a Thai jail after becoming embroiled in a street brawl with a group of British tourists.

Their stories are told as part of new four-part 5Star series Young, Dumb, and Banged Up in the Sun, which features young Britons imprisoned abroad while on holiday or living as expats.

And they prove how, terrifyingly, things can take a dark turn despite your best efforts to stay out of trouble.

Recruitment consultant Rebecca Blake from Surrey ended up being jailed in Dubai for three months after being accused of having sex with a man in the back of a taxi. Even though it was proved that they didn't have sex she still had to serve time for 'indecency'

Rebecca Blake, Surrey

Place arrested: Dubai

Reason: Having sex outside marriage, public act of indecency and drinking without a licence

Rebecca moved out to Dubai after visiting her sister who was living in the Emirate and being charmed by the glamorous lifestyle and friendly culture.

It's great out there. Boat parties, brunches, no crime. Just generally really nice culture, lovely people,' she recalled. I settled in really quickly.

'It's bars, bars, clubs and nightlife. I used to say "I'm never coming home". I was caught up in the whole Dubai, tax free, social, social, social.

'It's only until what happened I saw a very dark side of Dubai.'

Rebecca's life in Dubai unravelled the day she attended a boozy brunch party in May 2012 where she got chatting to an Irish man in her circle of friends and the pair hit it off.

It was very intrusive. Very degrading. I felt dirty. It was a 45-minute to one hour examination.

Later they decided to leave together and climbed into a taxi together, her companion carrying an open bottle of beer.

I had no idea alcohol was illegal unless you had a licence,' she recalled. 'I had no idea that was going to be the moment my life completely changed.

'He had a bottle of beer on him. We got into a taxi and the driver started going completely the wrong way. We ended up having a bit of an argument. Next thing we know, he pulls over. There's a police car on the side.'

After spending 40 minutes speaking to an officer, the driver took them to a police station where Rebecca was breathlysed and handcuffed, before being transferred to prison.

Rebecca Blake looks on outside the Dubai Court in November 2012 after being sentenced to three months in prison and deportation following a boozy brunch that saw her accused of having sex outside of marriage, indecency and drinking alcohol without a licence

'My heart sank, I just knew something wasn't right. It looked like a dungeon. It was all underground. The smell was revolting. It smelled of really strong urinal,' she said.

'Women were just lying on the concrete floor on old mattresses, falling apart.'

Next morning she was handcuffed again and put in shackles before being taken to a room where she was subjected to tests to establish if she'd recently had sex.

'She was told: 'You've been accused of having sex in the taxi. We're going to be swabbing you to test for sperm, condom and DNA.

'It was very intrusive. Very degrading. I felt dirty. It was a 45-minute to one hour examination.'

Five days later, Rebecca was released on bail but still had to go to court. Tests showed she hadn't had sex, but news of her arrest had already hit the front pages back at home.

When her day in court came, she was charged with having sex outside of marriage, public indecency and drinking without a licence. Despite the report showing she'd not had sex, she was still found guilty.

'Because I was in the papers they wanted to make an example,' she explained.

She then waited for a few more months as her lawyer appealed. At her second court appearance, the sex charge was dropped but she was found guilty of indecency because her male companion's hand had been on her shoulder.

Recalling her time in prison, the moment she walked in the other women started hissing at her and banging on the doors.

'They hissed at me privileged English b****. I thought "Am I going to feel a knife?".

'They watched Downton Abbey and thought I was: "I'm from England, I'm wonderful and great".

It took three months before Rebecca was released and she left Dubai immediately and has never returned since.

Rebecca Blake outside the Dubai Courts in November 2012 with her lawyer. Despite being found not guilty of having sex in a taxi, she still had to spend three months in prison for 'indecency' because her male friend put his hand on her shoulder

Daniel Bransbury, London

Place arrested: Miami

Reason: 3rd degree grand theft, organised fraud and handling forged notes

Party boy Dan was looking forward to spending Memorial Weekend in Miami after saving 3,000 for a holiday of fast cars, beautiful women and all-night clubbing.

'I was single, had cash to burn. Saved up 2 to 3K and took that with me. It came from the bank. Everything was fine.'

He booked a table at an exclusive club called Mangoes and was enjoying lots of attention from admirers, when he decide to step out to change his last 1,000 so he could keep the drinks flowing.

'Up until this point I'd been changing money in the bureau and went to change up the last,' he said.

He handed over his money to the cashier, who disappeared and left him on his own.

Daniel Bransbury from London spent a month behind bars in Miami when he was framed for fraud while trying to change money at a currency exchange so he continue his night of partying

Daniel was arrested by police inside the bureau, pictured in a reenactment from the show

'To my amazement I took one little glance out the window and there's police. I'm like, "something must have gone on across the road". They enter the shop.

'One of them's gone "police, put your hands behind your back".

'The amount of history they've got pointing guns at people. If you don't do what they say they shoot regardless. That's when I decided, "I'm not going to get shot".

'I put my hands behind my back, turned around facing the wall. Then they put me in cuffs. Didn't know what was going on.

I've watched movies, so you see what it's all about. If you come in and you're fresh you have to prove yourself. If you can't they will pick on you all day long.

They were quite aggressive. One thing was for certain, this woman fitted me up.

At the police station in Miami, Dan was told he was being charged with fraud.

'Once minute, you're shutting down clubs and spending money. You blink and you're on the floor in a holding cell,' he said.

Next day, he was transferred to the county jail and put in an orange jumpsuit.

' I was in a room with 35 other guys. It was like a scene from a movie.

'I've watched movies, so you see what it's all about. If you come in and you're fresh you have to prove yourself. If you can't they will pick on you all day long.'

While Dan found most most of his fellow inmates to be friendly, after a few days one wanted to fight him for his food.

Daniel knew he had to hold his own in prison and fought another inmate to win respect, after relying on what he'd seen in films to get by

Prisoners moved the bunk so they could fight, and he gave it his all and broke the other guy's nose.

The guy's come back and said "I respect you, London",' he recalled. 'After that I didn't get any trouble.'

Dan remained locked up for a month before being told the charges had been dropped and he was free to go.

He never received a full explanation or got his money back.

'I was on the way home and thinking "this is just one big movie, I never want to be in again",' he said.

Josh Lomas Mears, Lancashire

Place arrested: Thailand

Personal trainer Josh Lomas Mears from Lancashire spent a day in prison in Thailand after becoming involved in a street brawl with other tourists

Josh emerged from jail to discover he had been featured on local news broadcasts, pictured

Personal trainer Josh moved to Thailand to start a new life after discovering 'heaven on earth' during a trip with his brother.

'I turned a two week holiday into a permanent thing. This is my home now. This is where I want to reside for the rest of my life,' he said of how he felt about his first visit.

Eight months into his stay, Josh was loving life and spent most evenings partying after finishing his shift in a nightclub.

One night he was drinking at a bar with friends when a group of girls beckoned him over.

All of a sudden, one stood up and slapped him around the face and started screaming and he realised it was the girlfriend of one of his pals, who had never really liked him.

Josh agreed to pay a fine (pictured) in order to escape a maximum of up to three years in jail

The Briton was left with injuries after getting into a fight with other British holidaymakers

In anger, he picked up a glass bottle and threw it on the ground before storming out of the bar.

Outside, four British guys who saw what had happened inside started taunting him and a fight broke out.

He punched one and ended up on the ground being kicked in the nose before he was rescued by four of the notorious Lady Boys.

However, they couldn't save him from Thai prison where he ended up with the four guys he'd been fighting.

'At the station they held us for two hours. I was expecting them to say you can go now, we'll sort it out.

Josh was facing up to three years in a Thai prison if he didn't pay a fine after he was arrested by police for brawling in the street during a boozy night out

'They opened another door and I see bars. There was a hole in the floor for a toilet. I laid on the floor and tried to close my eyes and make the time pass faster.'

The next day Josh was told to pay a fine, or face up to three years maximum in jail.

'I found out it was all over the TV and newspapers: Five Brits brawl on the street in Thailand.'

Josh decided to pay the fine and even struck up a rapport with one of the men he'd been fighting.

'Me and this lad we had the fight with, we had a bond. We shook hands,' he said.

'It was an experience. Everyone's done something they're not proud of. I can't really fault it. It's still paradise to me.'

Young, Dumb and Banged Up in the Sun, Wednesdays at 9pm on 5STAR
She disgusted her followers when she took a look at her skin, eyes and eyelashes with and without makeup under a microscope, with many declaring it 'scary' and 'freakishly satisfying'.

And now, Melbourne-based YouTuber, Tina Yong, has returned with her microscope to take a look at her nails after years of gel manicures.

From tiny bits of hairs to damaged, fragile nails, cuticles filled with dead skin and a whole pile of fluff underneath her nail, here FEMAIL takes a look at what Tina found.

Melbourne-based YouTuber, Tina Yong (pictured), has taken a look at her nails after years of gel manicures underneath a microscope

The beauty blogger compared both her nails with a gel manicure and having removed the gel nail polish (pictured)

Towards the beginning of her video shared on YouTube, Tina explained that she intended to take a look at her nails under the 'Tinascope' because 'a lot of you guys have requested it'.

'I have one hand with gel nail polish on and the other hand is bare,' Tina explained. 'I have not had bare hands in a very very long time.

'I always have gel nail polish on my hands. It has been about five or six years. I don't even use normal nail polish. So it's time to see what my nail beds, cuticles and even underneath my nails look like.'

From tiny bits of hairs to damaged, fragile nails, cuticles filled with dead skin and a whole pile of fluff underneath her nail, the blogger was disgusted by what she found (pictured under the microscope)

'Oh my god, that's so bad. Look at my ring finger! There's so much fluff and little hairs stuck underneath,' Tina remarked (pictured)

Picking up her wifi-enabled digital microscope, Tina first took a look at the hand with the gel nail polish on.

Confessing she had had the polish on for about two weeks, she admitted it wasn't perfect and had a couple of chips.

'I'm going to compare the nails with gel polish on with the ones that I've removed. You can see it looks pretty damaged,' Tina said. 'This is how it always looks when I remove my gel polish. They look scratched and thin.'

When she ran the microscope over her gelled nails, the beauty YouTuber found hairs stuck underneath her nails:

'Oh my god, that's so bad. Look at my ring finger! There's so much fluff and little hairs stuck underneath,' she remarked.

'And how much dead skin do I have underneath my nails? It looks like Ice Age! It's like lots of icebergs around my cuticles.'

'And how much dead skin do I have underneath my nails? It looks like Ice Age! It's like lots of icebergs around my cuticles,' the blogger added (pictured)

This isn't the first time Tina (pictured) has taken a look at herself under the microscope - previously, she took a look at her complexion with and without makeup

Moving on to the hand where she had removed the gel nail polish, before she set off with the microscope, Tina remarked that you can see 'scratches and little white bits' all over the nails.

'That's where my nails have been lifted and peeled off because of the gel polish,' she explained.

'Usually, if you use normal polish, your nails won't look like this when you remove it. They will still look smooth, even and you wouldn't see these little white bits. But when you use gel, this is what happens.'

'That's where my nails have been lifted and peeled off because of the gel polish,' she explained - adding that she was shocked about how damaged her nails were (pictured)

Her followers commented on the clip saying her nails looked 'fragile as hell', and that they would 'never put their fingers in my mouth again'

Once she took a look at her removed manicure, Tina saw how yellow her nails really were.

'My nails have never been that white colour, they've always been an off white, or sometimes a yellow-y colour like this. You can see all that dead skin underneath. And because I've soaked it in acetone, it looks even worse.'

Tina concluded by saying that we all need to 'give our fingers a big scrub', and she was off to 'put a lot of cuticle oil on my nails'.

Her followers commented on the clip saying her nails looked 'fragile as hell', and that they would 'never put their fingers in my mouth again'.

'This is SO GROSSSSSS [sic] BUT I CANT STOP WATCHINGGG LOL [sic],' another added.
Seth Rogen celebrated the 10-year anniversary of Pineapple Express by sharing some fun facts about the stoner film  including Stormy Daniels' cameo and the outrageous number of joints he had to roll on set.

The 36-year-old co-writer of the film took to Twitter on Monday to open up about everything from the origin of the film's unique title to the real reason why Danny McBride's character Red just wouldn't die.

Rogen, who played Dale in the movie, kicked off the series of tweets by sharing one of the film's posters, explaining that Pineapple Express came out on August 6, 2008.

Looking back: Seth Rogen (left) took to Twitter on the 10-year anniversary of Pineapple Express to share fun facts about the film that he co-starred in with James Franco (right)

Throwback: The 36-year-old writer kicked off the series of tweets by sharing one of the film's posters from 2008

Although there are plenty of famous actors in the film, one minor character has gone on to become a household name since the movie premiered.

'In #PineappleExpress, Red refers to his ex wife having gotten out of jail recently. Theres a pic of Red and his ex wife, who was played by Stormy Daniels,' Rogen explained in the series of tweets.

Daniels has also appeared in his films The 40-Year-Old Virgin and Knocked Up, and back in April, Rogen claimed that the adult film star told him about about her alleged affair with Donald Trump more than a decade ago.

Rogen wrote Pineapple Express with Evan Goldberg, and he admitted that he and his co-writer had to put in a bit of manual labor while on set.

'In #PineappleExpress, me and my co-writer Evan had to roll all the cross joints needed to film (about 100) ourselves because nobody else on the crew could roll them properly,' he tweeted.

Say what? Rogen and his co-writer Evan Goldberg had to roll about 100 cross joints themselves because no one else on the crew 'could roll them properly'

Cameo: Long before she was in the news for alleging that she had an affair with Donald Trump, Stormy Daniels appeared in the film Pineapple Express

How about that: Rogen explained that the name Pineapple Express had nothing to do with marijuana before the film

Their dream: The actor said they hoped that one day people would sell weed with that name

Ouch: Rogen also dished about all of the injuries he and his co-stars accumulated on set

Yikes: Franco's character Saul wore a headband because he needed to get stitches after hitting his head off a nail in one scene

Rogen went on to dish about the film's name, which actually had nothing to do with marijuana before the movie was made.

'The name #PineappleExpress was around for years before the movie,' he explained. 'Its a Hawaiian weather system that sometimes hits the Pacific Northwest, which is where were from.

'Evan heard the name and said that would be a great name for a movie. Years later we found a perfect fit.'

In another tweet, Rogen stressed that there wasn't any strain of weed called Pineapple Express when they first made the film.

'We said, "If one day, people are out there selling weed called Pineapple Express, it worked,"' he recalled.

Can you believe it? When the film was first written, Rogen was supposed to play Saul  not Franco

Going with the flow: Rogen explained that Franco wanted to switch roles, so he went along with it

Movie connections: The drawings featured in his film Superbad were actually filmed on set of Pineapple Express

Humor is a blessing: Rogen went on to note that McBride's character Red wasn't supposed to have as much screen time as he did

Dedicated: Rogen said they actually left Red taped to the chair during filming

Explaining the injuries: The actor said he did '99 per cent' of his own stunts in the movie

Rogen, who did '99 per cent' of his stunts, also dished about all the injuries he and his co-stars got while shooting the comedy.

During the fight scene at Red's house, he broke his finger while McBride's head was cracked open when James Franco hit him with a bong.

Meanwhile, Franco's character Saul had to be filmed wearing a headband after he was injured during a scene where they had to run through the woods.

In the shot, Franco hits his head on a tree, but in reality he hit his head on a screw that was holding a pad in place and needed stitches.

And while it's hard to imagine anyone else but Rogen as Dale and Franco as Saul, the writer explained that the characters were originally reversed.

Not a fan: According to Rogen, Ford didn't want to be involved in a 'movie murder'

All their own: The movie got its own theme song thanks to Huey Lewish and the News

Memories: One fan pointed out that there was a smoking billboard for Pineapple Express

Only in the trailer: MIA's catchy hit Paper Planes was only featured in the film's trailer

Inside joke: Rogen also shared the reason why Saul calls his s**t week 'Snicklefritz'

Famous faces: At the end of the series of tweets, Rogen shared a picture of Kanye West at the film's premiere in Los Angeles in 2008

'We wrote #PineappleExpress express for me to play Saul and Franco to play Dale. James wanted to switch roles, and I didnt care that much, so we did,' he tweeted.

Rogen went on to note that McBride's character Red wasn't supposed to have as much screen time as he did.

'Red was originally supposed to die the first time he was shot when he was tied up in his apartment, but we thought Danny Mcbride was so funny that we just kept bringing him back to life,' he said.

'While we were filming the scene where Red is taped to the chair in #PineappleExpress, Danny had to actually be taped in the chair all day and we couldnt let him out because it took too long to put him back,' he added.

In the film, Red kills Matheson wth a Ford Fiesta, but, according to Rogen, the car company didn't want one of its vehicles involved in a movie murder.

'We had to change it to a Daewoo Lanos, which is ultimately much funnier I think,' Rogen said.

At the end of the tweets, Rogen shared a photo of Kanye West attending the film's premiere.
If you get the renovation job right, your kitchen can add thousands of dollars to the value of your home.

But sadly many people don't know the basic steps to moulding the perfect bench top, splashback and colour combos in the main cooking area of their home.

A selection of experts have rounded up the nine biggest mistakes we're making in the kitchen, and how to rectify them.

Scroll down for video

They look aesthetically pleasing, with a pile of coffee table books in an open cupboard looking like something out of a Donna Hay work, but having too many shelves without doors poses problems

1. Too many open shelves

They look aesthetically pleasing, with a pile of coffee table books in an open cupboard looking like something out of a Donna Hay work, but having too many shelves without doors poses problems.

Firstly it minimises how much storage you have in your kitchen, meaning that your room becomes a bit of a display and not practical for any sort of actual cooking.

Secondly it often becomes cluttered and dusty, particularly if you have small children in the house with wandering hands, and becomes more of an eyesore than anything else.

Interior experts always recommend closed cupboards to maximise the functionality of your kitchen.

2. Choosing an impractical countertop

While many renovators first choice is to opt for a natural stone with lots of veins and character, ultimately it's a far more expensive option than you might think.

'My advice is to be realistic with how you use your space. If you don't want to stress out about cleaning the counter every time something is dropped on it, then do not buy marble,' New York-based designer Tali Roth told Domaine.

While many renovators first choice is to opt for a natural stone with lots of veins and character, ultimately it's a far more expensive option than you might think

'If you don't mind the look of a natural stone that has the markings of lots of dinner parties, go right ahead. As an alternative, I love Superwhite, a granite that looks like a Carrara and is extremely durable.'

For those who are hopelessly in love with limestone, but also enjoy the occasional cut-up orange and margarita, opt for a quartz countertop instead - it won't stain in the same way.

3. Having cabinets low to the ground

If your cabinets don't reach the roof than you're opening yourself up to collecting dust in an otherwise spotless kitchen.

For storage sake it's ideal if they extend right to the ceiling, but if they don't ensure the splashback extends behind the low cabinets - this will avoid 'dust bunnies'.

If your cabinets don't reach the roof than you're opening yourself up to collecting dust in an otherwise spotless kitchen

4. Installing your dishwasher away from the sink

You need to expertly map out how your cupboards and appliances will open in your kitchen before you even think about spending a cent.

Visualise how each drawer will open in your mind; that way none of the higher cabinets will be blocked by anything on the lower shelves.

'One of the big mistakes I see is people not thinking through where to put the dishwasher and hiding it in a location that is far from the kitchen sink,' Interior designer Lindsay Chambers told the publication.

'This creates a trek across the kitchen with a recently rinsed and dripping dish to the dishwasher.'

You need to expertly map out how your cupboards and appliances will open in your kitchen before you even think about spending a cent

5. Having low light

If you don't have the luxury of windows to provide natural sunlight, ensure you've installed a number of low-hanging bulbs or LED lights under the cabinets.

Many interior designers recall seeing dimly lit kitchens and finding it unsatisfying to be in the room.

So if you are able to install a hanging wall light or have a standing light in the corner, you should do so.

If you don't have the luxury of windows to provide natural sunlight, ensure you've installed a number of low-hanging bulbs or LED lights under the cabinets

6. Using way too much colour

While Kmart might be offering teal green kitchen toasters, kettles and pans, that doesn't mean you should kit out your entire room with eccentric colours.

You should opt for a pop of colour in a floor rug or piece of art rather than in every accessory on the countertop.

7. Accessorising in a haphazard way

There is usually little left in the way of funds when it comes to choosing accessories - particularly after a big renovation job - but avoid cheapening your overall look.

Instead pick some clear, key pieces and add to it later.

While Kmart might be offering teal green kitchen toasters, kettles and pans, that doesn't mean you should kit out your entire room with eccentric colours

'Create a budget item for accessories before you begin the remodel. Think quality over quantity, and see it as an opportunity to infuse colour, texture, or anything else that may be lacking in the space,' Interior designer Katie Hodges said.

Australia's renovation queen Cherie Barber has previously provided FEMAIL with some fabulous ideas for curating a unique kitchen design.

From where to spend to how to save, and how much of your income you should really splash on furniture, here's what you need to know.

Speaking to FEMAIL, Australia's renovation queen, Cherie Barber (pictured) revealed how you can get a designer kitchen on a tiny budget

Cherie said first of all you have to set the budget for your kitchen (one of her transformations, pictured before) - it should be roughly two per cent of the current value of your home

'If your home is worth AUD $600,000, then you should spend no more than $12,000,' Cherie said - including materials, fixtures, fittings and labour (one of Cherie's transformations, after)

THE BUDGET

First things first, Cherie said you need to figure out exactly how much you are willing to spend on your kitchen.

According to the renovation expert, a generally good rule of thumb is to allocate no more than two per cent of your home's current property value to the kitchen:

'For example, if your home is worth AUD $600,000, then you should spend no more than $12,000,' Cherie told FEMAIL. 'This includes all materials, fixtures, fittings and trade labour.'

Setting your budget, Cherie said, will prevent you from over-capitalising and spiralling out of control in your renovation dreams.

'Within that budget, roughly 40 per cent of the total cost should be labour, while the other 60 per cent is the items and cabinetry,' Cherie added.

'Of all the rooms in the house, we spend the most time in the kitchen. So it's worth investing a bit of time, money and effort into it.'

 Slide me  'Within that budget, 40 per cent of the total cost should be labour, the other 60 per cent is items and cabinetry,' Cherie said (pictured: one of her transformations, before and after)

Cherie (pictured) explained that there are three different tiers from which to choose how you can do your kitchen, depending on your budget

THE THREE DIFFERENT TIERS TO CHOOSE FROM

Once you've set your budget, Cherie said you've nailed half of the battle.

Next, she said you have three different tiers from which to choose how you go about getting things done:

'The first option is DIY flatpack,' she said.

'This is the cheapest way to do it and will generally get done for under $15K. This way, you simply buy DIY kitchen cabinetry and hire a carpenter to help you out.'

When it comes to renovating a kitchen, often a 'cosmetic refresh' can do as much good as a full-scale job (one of Cherie's transformations, pictured before)

The TV expert also said that before you do any renovations, you should look at what you have in an existing kitchen before you rip it all out (one of Cherie's transformations, pictured after)

The next way, Cherie explained, is to go down the 'cabinet maker' route:

'This is where someone will go and manufacture something for you, project managing the situation. This will generally cost somewhere between $15 and $30K.'

Finally, the renovation expert explained you can go for the 'kitchen showroom' option - which will cost between $30 and $50K:

'This is the option for busy people with a big income for their kitchen,' Cherie explained.

'You look, you like something and you out-source it all.'

She concluded this by saying that the value of your home and your kitchen budget will dictate your tiered option.

If you've only got $12,000 to play with, DIY flatpack it is.

 Slide me  Cherie said places like Kmart, Bunnings and IKEA can be great for styling items and decorative touches which bring a kitchen to life (pictured: one of her transformations, before and after)

HOW TO MAKE YOUR KITCHEN LOOK DESIGNER

When it comes to making your kitchen look like something from an interiors magazine, Cherie revealed a 'cosmetic refresh' can often elevate quite an ordinary kitchen into something beautiful:

'Laminate and tile paints are great for refreshing a kitchen,' Cherie said.

'Bench-top re-surfacing can also help lots too.'

The TV expert also said that before you do any renovations, you should look at what you have in an existing kitchen before you rip it all out:

'A lot of kitchens have under-used wall space, which you can fill with extra cabinets,' she said.

'Kmart and IKEA are also great for styling items and decorative touches that bring the kitchen to life.'

Among Cherie's (pictured) tips are that you should always buy your appliances in bulk - as you can save a lot of money on package deals; she also said you don't always have to buy brands

'I buy my bench tops at a bench top factory for $150. At Bunnings, the same amount would cost me $500,' Cherie said (one of her kitchens pictured before)

Similarly, Cherie said you need to 'shop around' for flooring and tiles, where factory buying can save you massive sums (pictured: one of her kitchens, after)

Factories and wholesalers can beat convenience stores (pictured: one of Cherie's transformations, after)

THE BUDGET SHORTCUTS YOU NEED TO KNOW

When it comes to saving money, everyone wants to know the shortcuts which can pay huge dividends in results.

Cherie's favourite kitchen haunts * Bunnings - this is great for kitchen additions and decorations. Cherie said it's also good for first-time renovators, as you can take things back if you change your mind. * Secondhandkitchens.com.au - This is fantastic for lower-budget properties, according to Cherie. * Go Flatpacks - also great for kitchen cabinetry. * Kmart - this one is great for the decorative touches that really pull a kitchen together. * IKEA - also great for furniture items and modern decorative pieces. Advertisement

And over her years of making over homes, Cherie Barber has learned a few:

'Always buy your appliances in bulk,' she said. 'You'll save so much more than if you buy them separately and there are great package deals around.'

She also said you don't need to buy brand-named appliances, and should be visiting factories and wholesalers rather than convenience stores like Bunnings:

'I buy my bench tops at a bench top factory for $150. At Bunnings, the same amount would cost me $500,' Cherie said.

'You wouldn't not go direct to the specialist with something else. Why would you do it for your kitchen?'.

Similarly, Cherie said you need to 'shop around' for flooring and tiles, where factory buying can save you massive sums:

'Lighting is so important in a kitchen. I buy all my LED downlights from an electrical wholesaler for $8.50, and the same thing would cost me $35 in Bunnings' (a kitchen Cherie has made over)

'Lighting is so important in a kitchen,' she added. 'I buy all my LED downlights from an electrical wholesaler for $8.50, and the same thing would cost me $35 in Bunnings.'

Finally, Cherie said you should try to negotiate a 'full-package deal with your tradies to avoid paying them hourly rates'.

'This sort of thing will often make your budget spiral out of control,' she said.

For more information about Cherie Barber, please visit her website here.
When a former Vogue beauty editor throws open the doors of her personal beauty cabinet, taking a peek inside is a must.

Recently Sigourney Cantelo - a former health and beauty director of Australian Vogue - unveiled just what her treasure trove of a bathroom cupboard contains on a clip she posted to her website Beauticate.

And as to be expected, it's heaving with products from top brands including La Prairie, Lancome and Chanel and of course of few budget-priced must-haves.

FEMAIL takes a look at some of the $2,100 worth of cosmetics lining Sigourney's shelves and also reveals the makeup essentials she believes all women should own.

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Former Vogue Australia beauty editor Sigourney Cantelo (pictured) has unveiled just what her treasure trove of a bathroom cupboard contains

The beauty expert, who heads up the website Beauticate, has a beauty cabinet that's comprised of five shelves - all of which are packed with products.

Going through the levels one at a time, Sigourney explained the bottom shelf was dedicated to cleansing items.

The first product she spoke about was Bioderma's Micellar Solution, priced at $29.99, which she owned in a limited edition pump dispenser.

Chanel's Le Lait Douceur DHuile was also mentioned as favoured product.

Along with these items, Sigourney spoke about Chanel's L'Eau Tan, priced at $96.00. The Chanel product is a spray tan formulation the beauty expert said was perfect for adding a golden glow to the face, neck and decolletage.

Chanel's L'Eau Tan, priced at $96.00 (pictured), is a formulation Sigourney said was perfect for adding a golden glow to the neck or decolletage

Although the beauty expert has a bathroom cabinet groaning with product, she uses Bioderma's Micellar Solution (pictured), priced at $29.99, to remove makeup

'It says body mist, but I think it is too small to use all over your body so I just use on my neck and shoulders for a little bit of glow,' she said on the clip.

The second shelf appeared to be solely dedicated skincare products. Sigourney spoke specifically about a range by Rationale. The products are part of a six-step set, and each formulation costs $163.00.

'I always go back to these. They are so good and I always get compliments on my skin when I use them. While I do stray I try other brands I do love Rationale,' she said on the clip.

The beauty expert has a beauty cabinet that's comprised of five shelves - all of which are packed with products

Sigourney also spoke about the benefits of this luxury moisturising cream by French brand La Prairie (pictured) which costs $895.00

The third level in her cabinet revealed a combination of cosmetics including a facial serum by Ultraceuticals, priced at $140.00, a moisturiser by Synergy skin, and a facial oil by Australian brand Subtle Energies, priced at $46.00.

'Subtle Energies is the most beautiful facial oil ever. It just has the most incredible jasmine scent,' she said.

Sigourney also spoke about the benefits of the luxury moisturising cream by French brand La Prairie.

'For age, this is an amazing moisturiser,' she said of La Prairie's White Caviar Creme Extraordinaire. 'It's so indulgent.' The product is priced at $895.00.

Facial oils including one by Subtle Energies (pictured left), priced at $46.00 and this one by Rodin (pictured right), priced $249.00 also featured among the many skincare products Sigourney owned

Lancome's Absolue Precious Cells Rose Mask, priced at $260.00, also featured among the many beauty products lining the shelves

What is in Sigourney Cantelo's $2,100 beauty cabinet * La Prairie's White Caviar Creme Extraordinaire - $895.00 * Chanel L'Eau Tan - $96.00 * Bioderma's Micellar Solution - $29.99 * Rationale Skin Serums - $163.00 each * Ultraceuticals Ultra A Skin Perfecting Serum - $140.00 * Lancome's Absolue Precious Cells Rose Mask - $260.00 * Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening and Exfoliating Mask - $59.95 * Weleda's Lavender Relaxing Body Oil - $29.95 * Tom Ford's Jasmine Rouge Body Moisturiser - $110.00 * MooGoo Scalp Cream: $17.95 * Clinique Makeup Brush Cleanser - $34.00 * Charlotte Tilbury Overnight Bronze and Glow Mask - $76.00 * Rodin's Olio Lusso Luxury Face Oil - $249.00 Total: $2,160.00 Advertisement

Lancome's Absolue Precious Cells Rose Mask, priced at $260.00, also featured among the many lavish products lining the shelves.

'I do love these indulgent French creams like Lancome. They are just such beauty products,' she said.

Sigourney also spoke about her range of face masks and highlighted one in particular by Australian brand Kora.

The brand's turmeric brightening and exfoliating mask, priced at $59.95 was her recommended product.

The former beauty editor also raved about MooGoo's skin treatment range, especially their shampoos and conditioners, products she said have been ideal for treating her scalp irritations.

Its Scalp Cream is priced at $17.95 for a 120g tube.

The beauty aficionado touched on her love of body oils as well, noting Weleda's Lavender Relaxing Body Oil, priced at $29.95 works incredibly well when applied after a shower and before bed.

She also revealed a range of body moisturisers she used for regular indulgences. Tom Ford's Jasmine Rouge, which costs $110.00 was singled out for its unique fragrance.

Moogoo's skin treatment range, including this scalp cream, priced at $17.95 (pictured left) and cleaning products for makeup brushes, including this one Clinque, priced at $34.00 also featured

The fourth shelf featured a range of face oils along with other products. Rodin's Olio Lusso Luxury Face Oil, priced at $249.00, was mentioned as her 'second favourite facial oil'.

The shelf also uncovered a range of self-tanning products. These included Charlotte Tilbury's Overnight Bronze and Glow Mask, James Read Natural Tanner and Estee Lauder's Bronze Goddess.

This level also held products she used to clean her makeup brushes with including one product by Clinique, which costs a very affordable $34.00.

Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening and Exfoliating Mask (pictured), priced at $59.95, was recommended by the beauty aficionado

The top level uncovered hair products, including a few by luxury brand Oribe and more tanning formulations.

'Favourite fake tan is the Elle Effect, Elle MacPherson's product. It's really good and it typically tropical or coconutty. It has a rose scent which I like,' Sigourney said.

'And it doesn't come off on your clothes.'

Other tanning products lining the beauty professional's shelves include The Base, by Lara Bingle, St Tropez, Custom Tan and popular Australian brand Pure Tan.
A Texas Texas A&M University-Commerce student may now have a side-hustle as a beauty influencer, but it's not because of a much-liked Instagram or Twitter photo. It's because of her mugshot.

Marshala Perkins of Dallas, Texas, was arrested for possession of marijuana in February  and while the 19-year-old is still dealing with some unfortunate repercussions from the incident, she's also earned viral fame thanks to the very glamorous eye makeup she wore down to the station.

Now, dozens are fangirling over her 'fierce' beauty look and begging her for tips and makeup tutorials.

Beautiful: Marshala Perkins, 19, of Dallas, Texas, went viral for her gorgeous mugshot after it was obtained and shared by the Twitter account @mugshotbaes

Talent: A student and self-taught makeup artist, she was arrested for possession of marijuana in Texas

Marshala was in her dorm on On February 6 when she started playing with makeup in a Facebook Live video. She applied some glittery pink shadow for her followers, finishing off the look with long black lashes.

When she was done, some friends visited and invited her to come out, so she left her dorm in full makeup.

But as she told Buzzfeed's As/Is, she never got around to hanging out with them, because two Hunt County police officers approached her outside her dorm as she was getting into her car.

'One officer asked me for my handicap sticker because I was in a handicap spot,' Marshala said, adding that her mother who she often drove around was handicap. 'I gave it to him and he brought it back, said everything was clear.'

But rather than leave following the explanation, the officer allegedly said, 'It smells like weed in here'  and told Marshala to get out of her car so he could search her.

Marshala said that it didn't smell like marijuana, but the officers found two grams of it on her, since she had planned to smoke it with her friends.

Amazing: After her mugshot turned up on social media, Twitter users began commenting on her great makeup

Show us how! Several began to ask her to put out a makeup tutorial

Curious: Another person wanted the scoop on the eyeshadow palette she used

'I went to jail for it with my beat face,' the teen said.

According to Urban Dictionary, to have a 'beat face' means 'the makeup applied ... is so powerful and amazing that it makes them look truly stunning.'

Her mugshot was released on the Greenville Court House website on February 7 and in April, it was shared on the Twitter account @mugshotbaes.

After it was posted to social media, Marshala instantly became a viral sensation, with dozens of people asking her how she did her makeup.

'Why does this mugshot look so fierce,' wrote one commenter, while another wrote: 'Drop that tutorial sis.'

'I just want to know what eyeshadow palette she used because it is poppin,' another comment said. And someone else wrote: 'Waiting for her to drop the tutorial on this look tho [sic].'

Love it! She quickly earned fans for having flawless makeup

Products: Another person asked what setting powder she used in her mugshot photo

Anticipation: In fact, Marshala does do makeup tutorials online

Marshala explained to BuzzFeed that she is self-taught, and learned how to do her makeup from watching clips online.

'I just found YouTube and started watching makeup videos,' she said. 'When I was younger my parents were really strict so I spent a lot of time in the house.'

Now, she plans to release a makeup tutorial for her mugshot look on her YouTube channel in the near future  despite being initially embarrassed about the situation.

'Thats not really something that you want to be broadcast,' she said. 'But then when I saw all the support for me with my face beat because makeup is something that I really wanted to do I was like "Okay" I wasnt feeling too bad about it.'

Marshala had never been arrested before that day in February. But the arrest did result in her being held overnight in jail and ordered to pay $2,000 in court fees during her six-month probation period.

Consequences: Marshala had never been arrested before that day in February. But the arrest did result in her being held overnight in jail and ordered to pay $2,000 in court fees

Upsetting: She also lost her part-time job at Walmart, which left her with no money for the rest of the semester

Hustle: She's currently working full-time as a security officer and taking makeup clients on the side

She also lost her part-time job at Walmart, which left her with no money for the rest of the semester.

And because of the lack of funds and her mother's worsening condition (she was diagnosed with breast cancer), Marshala decided to take a voluntary leave of absence for the upcoming fall semester at Texas A&M University-Commerce.

She's currently working full-time as a security officer and taking makeup clients on the side.

'Its been really hard trying to get a job because of my background now. A lot of people dont want to hire people with marijuana on their background,' she said.

'I really regret going out to my car that night but its all a learning experience, you know?'
As royals they're used to living a life of luxury, and Princess Camilla of Bourbon Two Sicilies and her daughter Princess Maria-Carolina certainly looked like they were living the good life in Saint-Tropez on Tuesday.

Camilla, 47, and Maria-Carolina, 16, paid a visit to the Club 55 beach club in the exclusive French seaside town.

The teenage royal looked beach ready in an eye-catching patterned swimsuit and yellow denim shorts, as she joined her glamorous mother, who donned a sleeveless white jumpsuit with two daring thigh slits and a matching sunhat, on the beach.

The Royal House of Bourbon Two Sicilies is an ancient dynasty which ruled southern Italy from 1734 to 1861.

Princess Camilla of Bourbon Two Sicilies and her daughter Princess Maria-Carolina (pictured) visited Club 55 in Saint Tropez on Tuesday

Maria-Carolina looked beach ready in an eye-catching patterned swimsuit and yellow denim shorts, while her mother look glamorous in a white jumpsuit (pictured)

They were accompanied by what seemed to be a bodyguard as they made their way to the club (pictured).

Mother and daughter looked in high spirits as they made their way to the club, which is located on the famous Pamelonne beach.

The pair were accompanied by a bodyguard as they made their way across the shore and onto the pier.

Princess Camilla became royalty when she married Prince Charles, 55, in a Monte Carlo cathedral in 1998.

It was described by the New York Times as the 'blue-blood wedding of the decade'.

They looked in high spirits as they made their way to the club, which is located on the famous Pamelonne beach (pictured)

The Royal House of Bourbon Two Sicilies is an ancient dynasty which ruled southern Italy from 1734 to 1861. Pictured are the two women on Pamelonne beach

The couple are now 'very active in promoting the cultural, artistic, historical, and spiritual identity of southern Italy,' according to their official website.

That appears to include plenty of time away from Italy, as Princess Camilla is constantly Instagramming the family's luxurious vacations around the world.

Earlier this year the family toured America, with Princess Camilla taking her daughters Princess Maria Carolina and her younger daughter Princess Maria Chiara, 13, to Los Angeles and New York before hitting Florida.

Princess Camilla caused a stir back in February when she shared a picture of herself and the family with President Donald Trump (pictured)

Princess Camilla had to hold on to her hat as the two women crossed the pier (pictured)

The pair didn't let the breeze get them down as they shared some laughs on their outing (pictured)

Princess Camilla became royalty when she married Prince Charles, 55, in a Monte Carlo cathedral in 1998. Pictured are the two women crossing the pier on Pamelonne beach)

Princess Camilla caused a stir back in February when she shared a picture of herself and the family with President Donald Trump at at Mar-a-Lago.

Princess Camilla posted the three photos on her Instagram page, writing that the family had 'spent a wonderful evening' with Trump 'in the enchanting Mar-a-Lago', his club Palm Beach, Florida.

Princess Camilla's sister Cristiana recently revealed that their mother, Italian film star Edoarda Crociani, was obsessed with marrying her daughters off to princes.

Cristiana claimed that her mother pressured her into marrying Prince Bante Boncompagni Ludovisi, from an Italian noble family, in 1997 - a relationship that lasted only four months.
An elderly Canadian woman didn't sit idly in a rocking chair as she rang in her 90th birthday this year  she zoomed around a racetrack at a speedy 136mph.

Maire Hollo has been a bit of a daredevil for years, and recently celebrated her milestone birthday with a trip to the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Bowmanville, Ontario for some very fast fun.

The spunky grandmother said she wasn't even nervous about the ride, during which she sat in the passenger seat alongside a professional driver who climbed up to 220kph

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Daredevil! Marie Hollo from Canada decided to celebrate her 90th birthday speeding around an Ontario racetrack

Amazing: The 90-year-old rode passenger with professional driver Peter Lockhart as they took three laps around the Canadian Tire Motorsport Park

Thrilling: Just last year, the elderly woman jumped out of an airplane to celebrate her 89th birthday

Since the 90-year-old woman voluntarily gave up her license in her early 80s, she relied on Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame member Peter Lockhart to drive her around the track to celebrate being another year older.

Maire was asked about her nerves shortly before hopping into the white Porsche but insisted she was good to go.

'Nope. Never. I wasn't nervous when I went skydiving [either],' she told CTV Toronto.

For her 89th birthday, Maire celebrated by jumping out of an airplane, which won her fans on the internet.

On her 90th, though, Peter drove three times around the racetrack, going at speeds reaching 136mph.

Once she was back on solid ground, Marie gushed about her ride with the professional driver.

'Loved it, every second. So much power and lots of fast curves,' she said.

No fear: Marie said she loved going around the racetrack but admitted she could never see herself making those turns

Ready for another one: Marie is already planning her next adventure on her 91st birthday. She is considering going dog sledding in Quebec

But she admitted she could never see herself driving around those curves at such a high speed.

'I'm thinking I heard "faster,' I'm not sure," joked Peter after the drive. 'But [she was] very calm, very collected and totally enjoying the experience.'

Her daredevil antics actually go back several years, to her 84th birthday. That's when she tried out the EdgeWalk on top of the CN Tower in Toronto, an attraction in which brave souls wear suits and harnesses to teeter around the outside of the 356m (1,168 feet )-high building.

The thrill-seeker doesn't think she is done with all of her adventures on her birthday just yet, either.

For her 91st year, Maire is considering dog sledding in Quebec to commemorate the occasion.
Twenty patients who volunteered to get transplants of kidneys infected with hepatitis C have now survived the operation and been cured of the virus.

Nearly 100,000 Americans are waiting for kidneys, and many precious donated organs are thrown away because they have the curable infection.

After transplants, the patients' new organs are working fine thanks to medication that got rid of the virus, the University of Pennsylvania researchers reported Monday.

It was a small study involving just 20 patients, but researchers say it suggests that organs currently going to waste just might help speed transplants for patients who wait years to get one.

Kiran Shelat, a 65-year-old retired civil engineer, poses for a portrait in his home in Pennsylvania after receiving an experimental, hepatitis C-infected kidney transplant

'When there's such a bad organ shortage, we can't just do business as usual,' said Dr Peter Reese, a University of Pennsylvania kidney specialist who led the study. 'We need to shake off that these organs aren't valuable and that people will not want them.'

In the US, almost 95,000 people are on the national kidney waiting list but only 19,850 received a transplant in 2017, according to the United Network for Organ Sharing. That only covers about 20 percent of all cases.

Hepatitis C is an infection that can quietly destroy someone's liver if untreated.

Transplanting other organs from patients with the virus can infect the recipients.

However, past research has estimated that transplant patients who received hepatitis C-positive kidneys had only a one percent lower survival rate after the first year than patients that got uninfected kidneys.

Over three years, there was a two percent difference in their survival rates.

Still this risk has dissuaded doctors, patients and organ harvesters from keeping and using organs from donors who test positive for hepatitis C.

Precautions against the virus, however, may have cost thousands of patients life-saving organs over the years.

Between 1995 and 2009, Johns Hopkins University tracked the fates of 93,000 donated kidneys. Of those, some 3,500 were hepatitis C positive and thrown away.

Even patients who were positive for hepatitis C before transplant - 4,800 of them over the 14-year period - were given donor kidneys that were negative for the virus.

So kidneys that could have gone to people who already had the virus were thrown out, those people got uninfected kidneys, and many patients got no kidneys at all out of fear of a curable infection.

But with powerful new drugs now available that promise to cure them, Reese's team decided to test if it's safe to transplant infected kidneys to people who don't already have the virus, too -but who might not survive the wait for a healthy organ.

Twelve weeks of hepatitis treatment cleared the virus in all 20 patients tested so far.

Since receiving his kidney transplant, Shelat has even been able to resume exercising

Compared to patients who received uninfected organs, their new kidneys work just as well, even a year after the procedure. Merck & Co., helped fund the research and provided the pills in the study. Results were published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine.

Kiran Shelat, a 65-year-old civil engineer from Yardley, Pennsylvania, had spent two years on the transplant waiting list before signing up for the experiment.

He now feels energetic, and can work out in the gym and attend family events. So far, there's no sign of the virus in his bloodstream.

'This is a lifesaver,' Shelat said. 'Get off the list; get the kidney. There is nothing to be afraid of.'

Transplant specialists are keeping a watchful eye.

'As long as the patient accepts the risk, I support this,' said Dr Josh Levitsky, a professor of organ transplantation at Northwestern University who is not part of the team.

Getting an infected kidney may outweigh the burden of dialysis, which many patients find physically exhausting, said Dr Matthew Cooper, a transplant surgeon at Georgetown University Hospital.

'People have to plan their entire lives around dialysis,' said Cooper, who was not part of the research. 'It is a rotten lifestyle.'

It costs about $88,000 a year to undergo dialysis, according to the United States Renal Data System. Merck has set a price of $54,600 for a round of its hepatitis C medication, Zepatier.

Most insurance companies still don't cover the drug for transplant patients, Reese said.

The American Society of Transplantation has said larger studies are needed before transplanting infected kidneys is done routinely.

In 2016, Johns Hopkins University launched a similar experiment with 10 people. All of them are now cured. Researchers in the United Kingdom are already discussing the possibility to use organs with hepatitis C in patients who don't have the virus.

The University of Pennsylvania team are in the midst of a similar experiment using transplanted hearts from donors with hepatitis C.

'While larger, longer term studies are important to confirm these results, we can confidently say that hospitals nation-wide could perform hundreds or thousands more transplants if we increased our acceptance of organs from donors with hepatitis C,' said Dr Reese.
Soaring use of cocaine in Britain could lead to a rise in the number of cases of sepsis, experts have warned.

The Royal College of Emergency Medicine is set to issue a national patient safety alert in the coming days over the little-known link between cocaine and sepsis.

The alert has been prompted by the death of an architect in Manchester after taking the drug, along with concern about increasing cocaine use among the middle class.

Doctors have realised snorting cocaine allows bacteria a quick route into the blood stream - vastly increasing the risk of falling ill with sepsis.

Cocaine is seeing a major resurgence, particularly among 16- to 24-year-olds, who are twice as likely to use the drug since they were in 2012, according to Home Office figures.

The Royal College of Emergency Medicine is set to issue a national patient safety alert in the coming days over the little-known link between cocaine and sepsis

Cressida Dick, commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, and Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, have each warned in the last week that cocaine use is booming at middle-class parties, helping drive violence on the streets of London and at its source in South America.

Some 875,000 are now estimated to use the drug each year in England and Wales, up 15 per cent year-on-year, putting it second only to cannabis.

Now experts are warning that few users are aware of the dangers of sepsis associated with the drug.

The alert follows an inquest last month into the death of 39-year-old Darren Vernon, who died after using cocaine.

Dr John Butler, who treated Mr Vernon at North Manchester General Hospital, told the inquest: 'It was clear that there was something wrong but not exactly what it was.

'It was suspected that he had sepsis but staff did not know where it was coming from.'

DOES THE ALERT FOLLOW THE DEATH OF DARREN VERNON? The alert follows an inquest last month into the death of 39-year-old Darren Vernon, who died after using cocaine. Dr John Butler, who treated Mr Vernon at North Manchester General Hospital, told the inquest: 'It was clear that there was something wrong but not exactly what it was. 'It was suspected that he had sepsis but staff did not know where it was coming from.' Mr Vernon was given antibiotics but his condition deteriorated and he was moved to intensive care when he suffered a fatal cardiac arrest. Dr Butler added: 'This is not a common thing that staff have seen in the hospital and we will now put this into our education to our juniors and put it across the whole NHS Trust.' The architect from Blackley, Manchester had attained a First Class Honours degree and began bodybuilding when he was 16. He subsequently entered a series of competitions including Mr Universe. He won British titles in natural body building for the British National Bodybuilding Federation in Glasgow and went on to become world champion for the International Fitness and Physique Association in Washington DC. Advertisement

Mr Vernon was given antibiotics but his condition deteriorated and he was moved to intensive care when he suffered a fatal cardiac arrest.

Dr Butler added: 'This is not a common thing that staff have seen in the hospital and we will now put this into our education to our juniors and put it across the whole NHS Trust.'

The latest annual figures show that there were 432 recorded deaths from cocaine in England and Wales last year.

The pathologist who revealed the link, Dr Emyr Benbow, said: 'There is a significant possibility of a rise in sepsis deaths if cocaine usage continues to rise.

'We don't really know is how many cases we are missing. It is impossible to know.'

He added: 'Cocaine gets into your bloodstream very quickly through the nasal membrane.

'It then causes changes to the blood supply and causes arterial constriction.

'There are more bacteria in your gut than you can imagine, and once you reduce the blood supply the biological barrier that protects those bacteria getting into your bloodstream is compromised.

'Anything that reduces the blood supply to your gut to the degree that it compromises viability is going to allow bacteria.'

Sepsis develops when an infection such as blood poisoning sparks a violent immune response in which the body attacks its own organs. It is notoriously difficult to diagnose until it has spread throughout the body.

A spokesman for the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, which is expected to issue its safety alert this week, said: 'This tragic case has highlighted one of the lesser known risks of cocaine use; it can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream from the gut, which can result in infection and sepsis.

'While we would strongly discourage recreational drug use, it is important that the public are aware of the risks.

'Sepsis has been on the increase in our emergency departments, in large part due to lack of staff and beds, and it is important that all staff recognise the signs and symptoms.'
Saudi Arabia appeared to threaten Canada with a 9/11-style attack in a feud over human rights

Saudi Arabia's state media on Monday tweeted a graphic appearing to show an Air Canada airliner heading toward the Toronto skyline in a way that recalled the September 11, 2001, terrorist hijackings of airliners that struck the Twin Towers and the Pentagon.The graphic warned of "Sticking one's nose where it doesn't belong!" and included the text: "As the Arabic saying goes: 'He who interferes with what doesn't concern him finds what doesn't please him.'"Last week, Global Affairs Canada tweeted that it was "gravely concerned" about a new wave of arrests in the kingdom targeting women's rights activists and urged their immediate release. Saudi Arabia has expelled Canada's ambassador and frozen all new trade and investment with Ottawa in response to the criticism....Saudi Arabia has long stood accused of funding radical Muslim Imams around the world and spreading a violent ideology called Wahhabism. Under the leadership of its new young ruler, Mohammad bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has undertaken several sweeping reforms looking to reduce the funding for and spread of radical ideology as well as to elevate human rights.But a surge of arrests appearing to target prominent women's rights activists who previously campaigned to abolish Saudi Arabia's ban on driving for women has caused international alarm and prompted the tweet from Canada.The Saudi account deleted the tweet featuring the graphic with the plane and later reuploaded one without the airliner pictured.
It all starts with a little Tabasco sauce on our eggs or a little Sriracha in our ramen.

Suddenly, your mouth feels hot and your tongue goes numb, you start sweating and your eyes begin to water.

Our taste buds do dull as we age, leading many to believe that it's caused by the foods - particularly hot foods - we eat.

But spice lovers, don't fear: spicy dishes do not react to the taste receptors in our mouths but the heat receptors, so no damage is caused by packing on the spice.

In fact, spicy foods can even cool you do down on a hot summer's day, rev up your metabolism and help strengthen your immune system.

Spicy foods can cause our mouth to feel hot and our tongue to go numb, which can lead us to wonder if they ruin our taste buds

When you eat spicy foods, particularly when it comes to peppers such as chilies and jalapenos, you ingest a chemical compound known as capsaicin.

Capsaicin is found in the tissues that hold seeds and the pepper's internal membranes.

It binds to pain receptors in our mouth known as TRPV1, which sends warning signals to our brain that there is harmful heat in our mouth - like a fire.

These receptors were not designed to detect capsaicin but rather to stop us from eating food that could burn our flesh.

So your body starts to work to cool itself down via sweating, blood rushing to the face and even teary eyes or a runny nose.

It's the same reason that if capsaicin comes into contact with our skin or eyes, it also can cause pain, redness and swelling.

Despite the pain, some people often feel a sense of euphoria after eating spicy foods because capsaicin triggers signals in the brain that release two neurotransmitters, endorphins and dopamine.

Endorphins help relieve pain and make you feel happy while dopamine plays a role in our sense of reward - and combined, you can feel the equivalent of a 'runners high'.

Eating spicy foods constantly, of course, builds up your tolerance to it, so that the nerve receptors don't react as strongly when they come into contact with capsaicin.

Because the mouth goes a bit numb after coming into contact with the compound, we fall under the impression that we're killing our taste buds - but that's not the case.

Dr Paul Bosland, director of the Chile Pepper Institute at New Mexico State University, says the numbness is the body's way of protecting itself from the pain.

'What's happening is that your taste receptors are sending a signal to your brain that there's pain in the form of hotness or heat,' he told Live Science.

'And so your brain starts producing endorphins to block that pain, which causes numbness.'

But no tissue damage actually occurs and this is because heat and taste are two different sensations.

Taste perception - bitter, sour, sweet, salty and umami - is interpreted by caliculus gustatorius receptors, which are different that the receptors that interpret heat or pain.

Capsaicin will only trigger the heat-receptor cells so despite the numbness you feel, your taste buds are not actually being affected.

'People seem to talk about: "Spicy food destroys your taste buds." That's not really true,' Robin Dando, an assistant professor in the department of food science at Cornell University told How Stuff Works.

'It's not physically damaging the tissues. It's just kind of simulating the conditions where they would get damaged.'

We can train ourselves to tolerate spicy foods better by starting with mild amounts of heat and slowly working our way up.

In fact, there have been a number of studies that have worked on the benefits of eating spicy foods.

COOLS YOU DOWN

On a summer day, you might be inclined to reach for an iced tea or an ice cream cone, but spicy food can actually help cool you down.

Cold foods cool your internal temperature too quickly, causing your body to raise the temperature back up and leaving you feeling hotter.

But spicy foods raise your body temperature to match the external temperature and you begin sweating.

Once the moisture of your sweat is evaporated, provided conditions are not humid, you cool down down at more consistent pace.

REVS YOUR METABOLISM

Research has shown that eating spicy foods can aid in weight loss by boosting the metabolism up to 23 percent.

Capasaicin causes your body to generate more heat as it digests hot food, which results in more calories being burned.

Additionally, studies have shown that spice can help decrease your appetite and make you feel fuller.

One Canadian study found that adult men who ate an appetizer with hot sauce ate about 200 calories fewer at lunch compared to a control group.

BOOSTS YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

Spicy peppers have high amounts of vitamins A and C which helps strengthen the immune system.

A June 1996 study found that chili peppers had anti-microbial effects and inhibited five different types of bacteria, which can help fight infections.

Additionally, a 2015 study from Harvard University found that people were 26 percent less likely to die from infection when they ate chili peppers at lest three times a week.

Capsaicin has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce swelling similar to taking an ibuprofen pill.
Dental health experts worry that more people are using toothpaste that skips the most important ingredient - fluoride - and leaves them at a greater risk of cavities.

Most toothpastes already contain fluoride, but in recent years, some dentists have suggested that the chemical may be superfluous and even harmful.

While health authorities recognize fluoride as a cavity blocker, the internet is dotted with claims, often from 'natural' toothpaste marketers and alternative medicine advocates, that fluoride-free toothpaste also prevents cavities.

Even dental health authorities can't agree about toothpaste and fluoride, but a recent review of past studies done by researchers at the University of Washington suggests that the simple act of brushing is not enough.

Philippe Hujoel, a dentist and University of Washington professor, Hujoel led a review of dental research that has failed to find cavity-fighting benefit in toothbrushing without fluoride

'It's really important to debunk this idea that brushing your teeth stops decay. You need to have the fluoride,' said Damien Walmsley, a scientific adviser to the British Dental Association and dentistry professor at the University of Birmingham.

That view was underscored this week by an article in the dental journal Gerodontology that reviewed the scientific literature on cavities. Its primary conclusion is that, without fluoride, oral hygiene efforts have 'no impact' on cavity rates.

The idea that just brushing teeth doesn't stop cavities has largely been accepted among individual researchers for decades, but not always by the public.

Dentists generally recommend fluoride for cavity fighting, but even some of them continue to believe that the mechanics of wiping your teeth clean of plaque also reduces cavities. The review findings, published Monday, gave pause to at least one dentist.

'It violates certain principles we've been taught and that we teach and that we believe,' said Richard Niederman, a dentist and professor at New York University who saw an advance copy of the study and found the findings credible.

'What it says to me is that the toothbrush is just a delivery system.'

Few studies of the question have been carried out in recent years because the value of fluoride has been widely accepted for decades.

According to the American Dental Association, fluoride bolsters the functions of calcium and phosphate to help prevent cavities from forming.

Acids produced by bacteria trying to break down remnants of carbohydrates we eat are hard on our teeth, chipping away the calcium phosphate in the enamel that protects them from decay.

Fluoride a form of the naturally-occurring chemical, fluorine, binds with calcium and phosphate to create a stronger crystalline coating called fluoroapatite.

Once scientists in the US observed this, the US began to introduce it into the public water supply in the 1940s. By the '50s, the practice was an official policy and by the '60s, most of the nation's water was fluoridated.

Tooth decay declined significantly in the US and in other countries where fluoride became part of the water supply, including the UK, Canada and the Netherlands.

HOW MANY TODDLERS HAVE TOOTH DECAY? One in seven toddlers has tooth decay, research suggested in August 2017. Some 14 per cent of three-year-olds have a decayed, missing or filled tooth, a study found. Experts worry parents do not appreciate the importance of brushing their children's teeth as they juggle the responsibilities of raising a family. Study author Maria Morgan, from Cardiff University, said: 'People don't realise that you should start early. 'We are having some children at five, six or seven who are having five, six, seven, eight, nine teeth removed in one go.' The researchers analysed 1,400 parents. Of which, 75 per cent brushed their children's teeth the recommended twice a day. Ms Morgan said: 'No book can prepare you for life when you have a baby. 'When that lands on your plate - with all the different things you have to do and fit in - brushing teeth might not be the highest priority in the day. 'Sometimes it can get left. The messages might not be getting to everybody. 'There are some children who are having teeth extracted under general anaesthetic; that's approximately 8,000 children a year. 'It shouldn't be that great a number.' Advertisement

Currently, about three quarters of Americans' drinking water is fluoridated and the National Institutes of Health recommend a concentration of about 0.7 mg/L, though some studies have suggested that a concentration as high as 10 times that may be safe.

But, particularly in recent years, the practice is not without controversy.

Long-term exposures to very high levels fluoride can lead to a skeletal condition that causes pain from bones that are stiff, weak and prone to fracture.

As a result, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has capped fluoride concentrations in drinking water at four mg/L.

Some research has examined possible connections between the chemical and cancer - particularly cancers of the bones called eosteosarcomas - but the links remain somewhat tenuous.

Nevertheless, the concerns have been enough for many people, some dentists, and certainly tooth paste companies to suggest that fluoride should be avoided in favor of 'natural' toothpastes that, they claim, can prevent cavities just as well.

In the review, University of Washington researchers looked for high-quality studies since 1950 and found just three. They were carried out in the US and Great Britain and published from 1977 to 1981. They involved a total of 743 children aged 10 to 13 years who flossed and brushed for up to three years.

When the studies were evaluated statistically as a whole, there was no significant cavity reduction from simply brushing or flossing without fluoride.

Dentist J Leslie Winston, oral care director for Crest-toothpaste maker Procter & Gamble, said the review 'serves as an important reminder.'

'Despite a large body of scientific evidence, there are growing numbers of consumers who believe that all toothpastes are the same and that as long as you clean your teeth effectively with a toothbrush or other device which cleans in-between the teeth, you can prevent decay,' he said in a statement.

The market share for fluoride-free toothpaste is closely held company data. Industry sources estimate it at no more than five percent of all toothpaste sold, but with projected growth of over five percent annually.

On Monday, Tom's of Maine antiplaque and whitening toothpaste, which is fluoride-free, was listed as the second-best selling toothpaste on Amazon's online buying platform.

Paul Jessen, a brand manager at Tom's of Maine, said 'the products that don't contain fluoride that we offer do not promise that benefit' to fight cavities. He said his company's customers generally understand this.

Yet customer comment on Amazon's website sometimes indicates otherwise, with many reviews insisting that the company's fluoride-free toothpaste does fight cavities. 'If you brush regularly with or without fluoride, you reduce the risk of cavities,' asserts one customer.

Oral care companies themselves also stray into such claims. The website of Revitin non-fluoride toothpaste says it 'strengthens your teeth against tooth decay.'

Gerald Curatola, the dentist who founded Revitin and now serves as chief science officer, called the review 'misleading.' He said that the latest science suggests that a healthy mix of oral bacteria is key to dental health. 'I don't think fluoride makes a difference at all,' he said.

However, referring to his company's decay-fighting claim, he added: 'After this call, I'm probably going to remove that from the website, because I don't think that should be on there, because I didn't know that was on there.'

Jeff Davis, the CEO of Sheffield Pharmaceuticals that sells toothpaste with and without fluoride, said it's 'pretty established' that fluoride is what helps reduce cavities. But he said some people worry about the harmful effect of too much fluoride and so choose fluoride-free toothpaste.

Even without fluoride, dentists say there's some value in brushing. Philippe Hujoel, the dentist and University of Washington professor who led the dental review, said oral hygiene without fluoride might produce real cavity-fighting effects too small to detect in a study, or adults might conceivably benefit where the children in the studies did not.

And toothbrushing did reduce swollen gums in Hujoel's review. Brushing the teeth may also dislodge stuck food and help patients recover from oral surgery.

Dentist Matthew Messina, a spokesman for the American Dental Association, said mechanical brushing can also help avoid decay that sometimes forms, especially in older people, at the normally hidden roots of teeth, which was outside the scope of this review.

'The study is important,' he added, 'because the study is supporting what we've been contending for a long time.' The ADA recommends using fluoride toothpastes.

The review also cited a 2009 analysis of studies involving 60,000 people that found fluoride rinse prevents cavities about as well as fluoride toothpaste.

The review raises questions about how cavities form. Cavities have long been thought to develop in a poorly cleaned mouth when acids left by food start to wear away tooth enamel. The idea is that clean teeth do not decay. This review, though, argues for an alternate model: cavities grow in tiny crevices in the enamel that can't easily be reached with a toothbrush or dental floss alone.
Another 109 people have contracted explosive diarrhea from McDonald's salads - bringing the total victim toll to nearly 400 people across 15 states.

When the outbreak was first reported in May, it was localized to Illinois and Iowa.

Now, it has spread across the country - with new infections reported as recently as Thursday, even though McDonald's swapped its salad blend for another on July 20.

Three months into the saga, the chain still has yet to identify the offending ingredient, since infections had been linked to all four of the salads on the menu.

What is clear is that all of the victims had contracted cyclosporiasis, caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which causes vomiting and 'explosive' diarrhea a week or even more than a month after eating the offending food.

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More than 400 people in 15 states have been sickened by McDonald's salads. Pictured: the Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad (350 calories)

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which deals with regulation, said on Thursday that agents are working with McDonald's to understand what the source of the infection could be.

Meanwhile, agents at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which deals with citizens' health, is grappling to tally up all of the cases.

'Illnesses that started after June 14, 2018, might not have been reported yet due to the time it takes between when a person becomes ill and when the illness is reported. For cyclospora infections, this can take up to six weeks,' the CDC said in a statement.

They warn the number may be much higher than currently quoted, since they are still fielding all the reports in the last week or so.

Currently, outbreaks have been reported in Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Connecticut, Michigan, Tennessee and Virginia residents have also reported illnesses, but those salads were bought in Illinois while traveling.

Nationwide, there are four salads on the menu - two indulgent ones, and two 'healthier' versions - as well as a side salad.

The Bacon Ranch Salad with Buttermilk Crispy Chicken (490 calories) features chicken fillet, bacon, and two types of cheese, as well as romaine, kale, baby spinach, red leaf lettuce, carrots, tomatoes - topped off with ranch dressing.

There is also a Bancon Ranch Grilled Chicken Salad (320 calories), which is the same but with grilled instead of breaded chicken.

The Southwest Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Salad (520) pairs the breaded chicken with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and peppers with two types of cheese, tortillas strips cilantro, lime and ranch dressing - on top of the same lettuce blend as before.

Lastly, there is the Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad (350 calories), swapping out the buttermilk crumbs for a grilled fillet.

The salads have been a significant part of McDonald's bid to jump on the health-conscious bandwagon - though they are not that much healthier compared to the rest of the menu. A double cheeseburger has 440 calories, and a Bacon McDouble has 450 calories.

The Iowa Public Health Department said it identified 15 cases linked to the same illness and parasite who ate there in June and July.

Dr Patricia Quinlisk, Iowa's public health medical director and epidemiologist, said anyone with symptoms who ate a McDonald's salad should get tested.

'Anyone who ate these salads since the middle of June and who developed diarrhea, especially watery diarrhea and fatigue, should see their health care provider,' she said.

McDonald's replaced its lettuce blend on July 20, after pulling a blend from 3,000 stores in 15 states that they feared might be to blame.

It remains to be seen whether that will do the trick.

Symptoms of Cyclospora infection include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite and weight, cramping, bloating or increased gas, nausea, fatigue, and low-grade fever.

People can become infected by consuming food or water contaminated with the microscopic parasite.

The parasite is usually found in developing countries but there have been several outbreaks in the US in the past few years.
The UK has now fallen to the 'bottom of the league' when it comes to improving life expectancy - and the US is almost as bad, official figures reveal.

Rises in life expectancy at birth for women is the lowest among 20 of the world's top economies, and only behind the US for men.

Former pensions minister Sir Steve Webb has today urged Government officials to investigate what is behind the downward trend.

Huge improvements were seen in life expectancy across the last century, due to healthier habits - but rates have been on the decline in recent years.

Statisticians warn the slowdown in the UK and US is also 'evident' in a number of countries across Europe, including Germany.

But today's Office for National Statistics analysis shows vast improvements in life expectancy in Japan, Italy and Scandinavia.

The analysis of 20 countries, including Australia, reveals the majority have seen mortality rates decline at a slower rate since 2010.

 Slide me  Rises in life expectancy at birth for women (left) is the lowest among 20 of the world's top economies, and only behind the US for men (right)

Males at birth

For males at birth, the US endured the greatest slowing in life expectancy, closely followed by the UK and then Spain.

In the US, the increase now sits at 1.5 weeks per year - down from the 14.1 weeks per year the country recorded between 2005 and 2010.

The jump fell from 17.3 weeks per year to just 4.2 weeks per years across the same time period in the UK, the ONS analysis shows.

Drops were also noted in 10 other countries: Spain, Germany, Portugal, Sweden, France, the Netherlands, Australia, Canada, Belgium and Poland.

But Austria, Czech Republic, Italy, Denmark, Norway, Finland and Japan all made improvements. Switzerland stayed the same.

The ONS claims the 'large drop' in the UK is in part due to a significant increase in male life expectancy between 2001 and 2011.

But it added Switzerland, which had the highest life expectancy at birth for males in 2016, maintained 12.5 weeks per year improvements between these two periods.

Females at birth

In terms of females at birth, the roles are reversed. The UK tops the charts, followed then by the US.

The increase now sits at 1.2 weeks per year in the UK - down from the 12.9 weeks per year the country recorded between 2005 and 2010.

The jump fell from 11.2 weeks per year to just 1.5 weeks per year across the same time period in the US.

Czech Republic, Italy, Denmark, Finland and Japan all made improvements. The rest of the countries in the analysis experienced drops.

 Slide me  The UK was also at the bottom of the table for life expectancy improvements for men (right) and women (left) at 65 years old, followed by the US in both tables

Males and females at 65

The UK was also at the bottom of the table for life expectancy improvements for men and women at 65 years old, followed by the US in both tables.

Life expectancy improvements were slashed by around 70 per cent for men in the UK across the two periods, and 90 per cent for women.

Alan Evans, of the ONS, said: 'The UK has experienced one of the largest slowdowns in life expectancy at birth and at age 65 years for males and females.

'By contrast, Japan has come through a period with low life expectancy gains and has recently experienced an acceleration of mortality improvements.'

He added that this shows that 'even after a period of slow growth in life expectancy, a country may again return to faster improvements'.

Slumped in performance

Sir Steve Webb, former Liberal Democrat pensions minister and director of policy at Royal London, slammed the findings.

He said: 'The UK has slumped from being one of the strongest performers when it comes to improving life expectancy to bottom of the league.

'There is a real human cost behind these statistics and we urgently need to understand more about why this is happening.'

He added: 'The Government needs to conduct urgent research into these worrying trends.

'If other countries can ride out the economic storms and continue to drive up life expectancy, there is no reason why the UK should not be able to do so.'
A desperate mum needs 250,000 for life-saving surgery after she was diagnosed with seven aggressive breast cancer tumours - in her brain.

Jade Goffin, 30, initially thought she'd beaten a rare form of breast cancer after undergoing gruelling treatment, last year.

But the mum-of-one, from West London, was heartbroken to discover it had spread into her lymphatic system - and left her with seven tumours in her brain.

Terminal: Jade Goffin, 30, was diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer in February 2018, but - despite treating it with chemotherapy - the cancer later reappeared in her brain

'The hardest thing is when I look at my daughter and I feel so emotional. I look at her and it really upsets me that this will take me away from her,' she says.

'It breaks my heart to think of leaving her. We told her the truth about what is going to happen as best we could but how do you tell a five-year-old that mummy isn't going to get better this time?'

The mum is determined not to let five-year-old daughter Eva grow up without a mum and now is in a race against time to find 250,000 needed to fund pioneering treatment in the USA - because the NHS doesn't have the necessary equipment.

Jade said: 'Everything is about Eva, I need to be here for her. I cannot accept that my daughter is going to grow up without her mum.

'Even if I live for five years longer, it is a lot more than the one to two years I have been given in the UK. I think of all the things I shared with my mum, my wedding, my pregnancy, having Eva, and all the things she will miss.

'If the NHS can't or won't provide treatment, we have to look in other places.'

Mum Helen Rayner, 53, lives just three miles from her daughter in Hounslow, West London, and supported Jade throughout the treatment.

Helen said: 'Jade is amazing and an inspiration to us all. She refused to give into it, for Eva's sake.

Fighting for more time: Jade (left) with husband Gareth (right) and daughter Eva (centre)

Family ties: The family are hoping to prolong Jade's life with specialist US treatment

'One day she came home from chemo and started cutting the grass like normal.

'Not at any time did she complain or whining, not even when her hair started falling out - she just reached for the clippers and took control.'

Jade was first diagnosed with stage 3c triple negative breast cancer in February last year which is much more common in younger women.

After months of gruelling chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, Jade was given the all clear and looked forward to a normal life with husband Gareth and their daughter Eva.

Helen said: 'The day Jade was given the news, she left the hospital like her backside was on fire. I literally had to run to keep up with her.'

The family had an offer accepted on a house they planned to make their forever home and Jade returned to work as a London Met police officer in February.

'The hardest thing is when I look at my daughter and I feel so emotional. I look at her and it really upsets me that this will take me away from her,' she says

But she began suffering from headaches in May and, after tests, medics diagnosed her with stage four brain metastases, with a total of seven tumours that had spread to her brain.

Jade had cyberknife surgery, targeted radiation which is hoped to shrink the tumours in her brain and prolong her life.

As a side effect from the surgery, she experienced temporary memory loss and is doing lots of puzzles and quizzes at home to recover as quickly as possible and enjoying what precious time she may have left with Eva.

The mum has had her driving license taken away and is no longer able to work, two things she loved before being taken ill, and relies on family and friends to take her to hospital appointments.

Jade said: 'It is affecting everything about my life. Not being able to drive is a great difficulty. My mood has been really low and it has been so difficult to try to change that when everybody around you, including the doctors, is so negative.

'The possibility of treatment in America has given us a bit of hope.'

With no known cure, the family are relentlessly looking for alternative treatments to prolong Jade's life including visits to private clinics and holistic oils and therapies which come at a huge price.

Jade (left) with her mum Helen in happier times - before cancer became part of their reality

Precious memories: Jade (centre) with daughter Eva and her mother Helen in Lapland 2017

Helen said: 'The cyberknife surgery has really knocked it out of Jade. She has been so determined and I refuse to let her give up. We are trying everything we can.'

The family are rallying together and have created a Justgiving page to crowdfund the 250,000 needed if Jade is to have potentially lifesaving treatment in America where specialist equipment and new medical trials for tumours are available.

Helen, a pub landlady of 22 years, is selling her retirement home in Wales to help fund the treatment, but they are still short of cash.

Doctors in the USA have advised two suitable trials for Jade but her full treatment plan and preferred clinic are yet to be confirmed.

Helen added: 'We will get the money somehow. There is no way she is leaving a five-year-old behind.'

Helen found three hospitals in the USA which could provide the world-class treatment, of which two have accepted Jade's application.

The third hospital yet to accept is Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center in Boston, where Melissa Huggins was treated for brain tumours nine years ago.

A year after surgery, Melissa was told by doctors her tumours were stable and had significantly reduced and she now wants to help Jade and her family fight for the same chance.

'Melissa is still here almost ten years later and that is what I want for Jade too,' Helen adds.

To donate, visit Jade's fundraising page here
A rare, hard-to-treat form of epilepsy could be managed - with spider venom.

That's the claim made by researchers from the University of Queensland and the Florey Institute of Neuroscience, this week, who believe arachnid peptides could control convulsions associated with Dravet Syndrome.

Currently, the little-known condition suffers from limited treatment and medication which cannot completely control patients' fits.

But the amino acid molecules in spiders could restore the neural deficiencies which trigger attacks.

Nature's remedy: A peptide in venom can restore the neural deficiencies that trigger seizures in children who are diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome

Professor Glenn King said the study in mice could be an important step towards better therapeutic strategies for the rare and life-threatening type of epilepsy developed by children in their first year of life.

'About 80 per cent of Dravet syndrome cases are caused by a mutation in a gene called SCN1A,' Professor King said.

'When this gene doesn't work as it should, sodium channels in the brain which regulate brain activity do not function correctly.

'In our studies, the peptide from spider venom was able to target the specific channels affected by Dravet, restoring the function of the brain neurons and eliminating seizures.'

Professor King said the discovery, made in collaboration with The Florey's Professor Steven Petrou, was the latest to demonstrate the unique effectiveness of spider venom in treating nervous system disorders.

'Spiders kill their prey through venom compounds that target the nervous system, unlike snakes for example, whose venom targets the cardiovascular system,' he said.

'Millions of years of evolution have refined spider venom to specifically target certain ion channels, without causing side effects on others, and drugs derived from spider venoms retain this accuracy.'

Hard to manage: Currently, the little-known condition suffers from limited treatment and medication which cannot completely control patients' fits

WHAT EXACTLY IS DRAVET SYNDROME? Dravet syndrome is a rare genetic epileptic encephalopathy (dysfunction of the brain). It begins in the first year of life in an otherwise healthy infant. P rior to 1989, this syndrome was known as epilepsy with polymorphic seizures, polymorphic epilepsy in infancy (PMEI), or severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy (SMEI). The disease begins in infancy but is lifelong. Seizures generally start within the first year of life. The first seizure is often associated with a fever. SOURCE: Epilepsy Foundation Advertisement

'This latest finding may help develop precision medicines for treatment of Dravet syndrome epilepsy, which has been difficult to treat effectively with existing seizure medication.'

The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, was supported by organisations including Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy, the Australian Research Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council.

Research in Professor King's lab at UQ is focused on development of venom-derived pharmaceuticals to treat epilepsy, chronic pain and stroke.

His lab maintains the most extensive collection of venoms in the world, which includes venoms from more than 600 species of venomous spiders, scorpions, centipedes and assassin bugs.
Silvia Park no longer needed her uterus. So she donated it to someone who does.

The 49-year-old mother-of-three had happily raised a transgender son, another child and stepchild and knew she did not want any more children.

She told Cosmopolitan that watching and standing in solidarity with him through his transition made her realize her uterus might be able to help a transgender woman.

No one has successfully transplanted a uterus to a person born with male anatomy so far and transplanting a uterus at all is still a highly experimental procedure.

Silvia Park (right) and her husband, Eddie (left) have become outspoken LGBTQ allies in support of their transgender son. Park says he inspired her to become a uterus donor

But Park hopes that the surgery to transfer her uterus to another anatomical woman will help doctors at Baylor University better understand the procedure so that one day it might help a transgender woman to bear children.

At 44, Park got a crash course in gender.

She had no idea that her son, who was assigned female at birth, had gender dysphoria until he announced it plainly to her in the car at age 16: 'I'm a boy,' Park recalls him telling her in the car in the hometown of Charlottesville, Virginia.

We do not have a very exact measure of how many people in the US are transgender.

The US Census Bureau has only recently added a question to its survey asking if Americans identify a member of a single group encompassing lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or gender non-conforming people.

We do know that those numbers are rising, but low. One University of California, Los Angeles study estimated about 0.7 percent of teenagers are transgender; a University of Minnesota study in 2018 suggested that almost three percent of 11th graders there were transgender or gender non-conforming.

Park had had no idea that her child was among those teenagers, but neither she nor her husband hesitated to jump to his support and dive into the transgender community.

Park is an avid runner in excellent health, which made her a good candidate to have her uterus removed at age 49 and donated to another woman

Park signed up for support groups and started keeping an eye on medical news that she thought might have the potential to improve her son's life.

In December 2017, Park read about the the first baby born to a woman who had a uterus transplant through Baylor University clinical trial for cis-gender women who didn't have functioning uteruses.

That woman had been born without a uterus - a trait she shared with transgender women - and was therefore unable to carry her own children.

This planted the seed of an idea in Park's head.

'My mind wandered from this particular woman,' Park said.

'I thought, maybe this kind of procedure could help transgender womenpeople who transition from a male birth assignmentcarry their own children.'

Even though she knew the procedure wouldn't be available to transgender women, she decided that she wanted to do what she could to help science progress before menopause. Park decided she wanted to donate her own uterus.

So far, nine live donor uteruses have been transplanted in Sweden, and another handful have been completed in the US.

Only one of those women in each country has gotten pregnant and given birth.

I've always believed that everyone should have the right to decide whether they want to carry a child, regardless of their gender. And I desperately wanted to contribute to the cause

Doctors are attempting transplants of uteruses from deceased women as well as from live donors.

All transplants are complicated and high-risk, but uterine transplants are especially so for the recipient.

Like other transplants, a recipient has to take immunosuppressant drugs so that their body will not reject the new organ. Doing so makes having a baby possible but it also make infection more likely and can even leave a patient more vulnerable to developing cancer.

She starts this treatment before the transplant procedure and will have to remain on the drugs while artificial insemination is attempted, through nine months of pregnancy and until she delivers a baby, at which point the uterus is removed through a hysterectomy.

The odds of successful transplantation - much less pregnancy and childbirth - are low, the process is grueling, and the time with the donated organ is brief.

But it is a shot at carrying her own children.

The transplant is no walk in the park for the donor either - ethically or physically.

'The potential excited me,' said Park.

Despite the controversy, she knew exactly how she felt and what she wanted: 'As a mother of two biological children and one stepchild, I've always believed that everyone should have the right to decide whether they want to carry a child, regardless of their gender. And I desperately wanted to contribute to the cause.'

Park had given birth to two children, without complications. She knew she was done with pregnancy and the avid runner's good health and good pregnancies made her a good candidate to donate her uterus.

Before a uterus transplant, the recipient has to take immunosuppressant drugs. Then the donor's uterus, cervix and the blood vessels that supply them are removed and transferred to the recipient, as a diagram from Baylor University explains

She had undergone surgery in the past but harbored a deep fear of needles. In spite of that, she flew to Baylor in Dallas, Texas in February to complete her battery of tests and then flew back there again in the spring to have the surgery once she'd been matched to a recipient based on their antibodies.

To remove her uterus, the Baylor surgeons made an incision from her belly button to the top of her pubic bone.

They then carefully detached the blood vessels supplying Park's uterus and cervix from the rest of her body, taking out the vessels and both organs.

Her Fallopian tubes were removed as well, but her ovaries were left intact so that Park's hormones would continue to behave as before, until she hits menopause. However, her ovaries will no longer release eggs and she will stop having periods.

Her vagina was sewed shut where it would have met the narrow cervix at the end of the operation.

As I move on with my life, the organ that made me a mother may soon give another woman a chance to experience the same kind of joy parenthood has given me

As one team of doctors finished Park's operation, another team brought her uterus and cervix to the recipient and carefully made a place for the organs and reattached the vessels to that woman's blood supply.

Park awoke, eight hours after her surgery began, swollen and sore.

'I felt sharp pains emanating from within and a burning sensation as if my core muscles were being stretched. It was especially bad when I sneezed, which would cause brief bouts of excruciating agony

'My right leg, I noticed, felt numb, although my doctors explained this stemmed from nerve inflammation due to my positioning on thfe operating table.'

Her recovery felt slow to the athlete, but she remained focused. So focused in fact, that she did not ask to meet the woman her uterus went to. Nor did the woman ask to meet her. The two women who have shared the same organ know nothing about one another.

'As I move on with my life, the organ that made me a mother may soon give another woman a chance to experience the same kind of joy parenthood has given me,' Park said.

'Thinking of my uterus carrying someone else's baby doesn't strike me as weird. I no longer had a need for the body part. Now, it's being put to better use.'

Park says she and her transgender son haven't discussed her uterus donation with her transgender son, but doesn't doubt that he supports her just as much as she has supported him.

'I don't need him to tell me he's proud of what I did. I like to think I would have done the same thing if I didnt have a transgender child,' Park said.
This month marks ten years since the banking crisis. The worlds financial system has become a safer place in the meantime.

This is mainly because regulators have forced most new over-the-counter derivatives to be processed through clearing houses to maintain stability.

They were right to do so. Most contracts are now processed through such firms, which act as a circuit breaker by managing risk if firms default on interest payments.

The clearing of derivatives is one of the Citys great success stories. At the heart of the system is LCH, a subsidiary of the London Stock Exchange, which acts as a buyer to every seller and a seller to every buyer.

Bone of contention: Fighting over LCHs spoils has become a battleground in the Brexit debacle as some EU politicians  mainly French and German  want to poach its business

LCHs numbers are mind-boggling. This year it has cleared interest-rate swaps with a notional value of $576 trillion on behalf of customers in 59 countries and in 20 different currencies.

Having such a vast global liquidity pool reduces costs, and analysts estimate that customers were saved $30billion in regulatory capital last year.

Though most of LCHs business is global, about 14 per cent of clearing is with an EU entity on either side of the trade, and half of that is in euro swaps.

While this is a tiny part of its total, it accounts for the majority of euro-denominated clearing.

Thats why fighting over LCHs spoils has become a battleground in the Brexit debacle as some EU politicians  mainly French and German  want to poach its business.

Recent scare stories that LCH is losing some business to its German rival, Eurex, part of Deutsche Boerse, are misleading. Its true that some customers have moved clearing to Frankfurt  mainly short-dated financial contracts. But its a small amount  about 8trillion euros this year.

The bigger and more lucrative part of the market is long-dated derivatives, which are still being cleared in London and are likely to continue to be because it is a more liquid market. Yet there is a greater worry.

With only eight months to go until Brexit D-Day, its critical that the UK and the EU countries speed up their negotiations for all financial services companies.

Its essential that UK and EU regulators and politicians bang heads together this autumn so that trillions of daily contracts can continue to be cleared smoothly from March next year.

They must provide the markets with a clear statement of mutual intent that business will continue as normal.

Waiting until next year would be too late: The markets need certainty and confidence now. Crashing out next March without some sort of reciprocal declaration would make the Lehman collapse look like a picnic.

Even the IMF has warned EU countries to be careful about what they wish for in stealing LCH business.

They know that any further fragmentation of swap flows can only lead to a more fractured and less liquid pool  thus putting up the cost of capital for EU savers and investors.

It would be madness on the part of the French and the Germans to destroy a systemically solid market infrastructure to score political points. Good business should trump bad politics.

French takeover

Philip Hammond is not the sort to over-egg le pudding. So the Chancellors warning that Emmanuel Macron will do almost anything to persuade companies to jump ship from London to Paris should be worrying.

Hammond says the French president is telling US and City firms that access to EU markets will be harder after Brexit.

Macrons threat follows previous attempts to lure senior US bankers and tech geeks over the Channel with special tax breaks and new schools for expats. (Would that not be considered state-aid by EU rules?)

But we should not be too concerned: Macrons seduction feels like deja vu. Successive French governments have been promising the same sorts of incentives for at least 30 years.

They didnt work then, and are unlikely to do so now  and Londons restaurants are better today than those in Paris.
Take-off: Passengers travelling with EasyJet jumped 4.5% last month

JET SUCCESS Passengers travelling with easyJet jumped 4.5 per cent last month to 8.5m despite the airline being forced to cancel flights due to strikes and a runway closure at Gatwick.

FLOOR DEAL Flooring firm Victoria has forked out 86.2million on manufacturer Ceramica Saloni.

GOOGLE SNUB The maker of video game Fortnite, Epic Games, has said it will not use Googles store to sell Android apps.

JOBS MOVE A small number of research jobs could be relocated from the City to Paris by Bank of America to help it cope with Brexit.

QUIDS IN Firms listed on the London Stock Exchange made a 210.8billion profit during the 12 months to June 30  up 86 per cent on the previous year.

WIZZ AHEAD Budget airline Wizz Air recorded a 23 per cent increase in passengers to 3.47m in July.

HIRING BINGE A 25 per cent boost in staff is being planned by Deutsche Bank at its wealth management arm in the US.

FRENCH CONNECTION A purchasing partnership between Big Four supermarket Tesco and French firm Carrefour, to share own-label products and slash prices, has been approved.

NO CONTACT More than 19m consumers now use contactless technology as their main way to pay, according to Gocompare.

GOOD CHEMISTRY Chemicals business Synthomer has posted an 8.2 per cent rise in sales to 833.8million. Profits are up 6.4 per cent to 76.2million.

Shaft HOPES Miner Vedanta Resources says it hopes to restart its Tuticorin copper mine in southern India. It closed after 13 died in police clashes with protesters.

SOLAR SPREE Green investment firm Foresight Solar Fund has bought 15 solar power plants in the UK for around 47million.

DRILLER bought Oil and gas explorer Kosmos Energy has bought Deep Gulf Energy, a deep-water drilling firm, for 1billion.

PROFIT UP Profits at the Japanese parent of UK tech firm Arm Holdings, Softbank Group, have risen 49 per cent in the first quarter.

NEW DIGS Insurer Hiscox is moving to a 75,000sq ft City office.
An electronics and homeware chain run by the owners of House of Fraser has gone bust.

Brookstone, a chain bought by Sanpower in 2014 at the same time as it paid 480million for House of Fraser, has filed for bankruptcy in the US.

It will now close all 101 shopping centre stores, with its 35 airport shops and website staying open for business.

Brookstone was bought by Sanpower in 2014 at the same time as it paid 480m for House of Fraser, has filed for bankruptcy in the US

This latest twist in the House of Fraser saga demonstrates the perilous financial position of its Chinese owners.

The department store is clinging for survival after an attempt to sell it off to another Chinese investor failed.

Richard Hyman, an independent retail analyst, said: House of Fraser is far from the only Sanpower investment to hit the buffers  portents are not good for the department store chain.

Fashion chain sold The billionaire owner of Edinburgh Woollen Mill is preparing to rescue womenswear brand Jacques Vert from administration. Philip Day is expected to make a swoop for Jacques Vert owner Calvetron Brands this week after it went bust for the second time in less than a year in May, according to Sky News. The tycoon is also one of the potential suitors for stricken retailer House of Fraser. Day is expected to make the Jacques Vert purchase through a company separate to Edinburgh Woollen Mill, which houses retailers including Peacocks, Jane Norman and Jaeger.

Sanpower has closed almost half of Brookstones shops since buying it in 2014 for 134.4million after it filed for bankruptcy the first time.

Like Brookstone, House of Fraser is preparing to shut half its 59 stores in a bid to save money. It is hoping that axing a chunk of its shops will make the business more attractive to potential suitors.

House of Frasers financial troubles emerged earlier this year when it began writing to landlords begging for rent reductions on its shops.

Sanpower revealed it was looking to sell off the 169-year-old department store chain in March, but has not found a buyer.

The Chinese owner of Hamleys, C Banner, walked away from an offer to buy a 51 per cent stake in House of Fraser after its own share price plunged 70 per cent and it was forced to issue a profit warning.

Experts say House of Fraser is likely to fall into administration before a buyer takes it on as it would give it a reduced price tag. House of Fraser declined to comment.
webguy4 said: My claim comes from an exhaustive study of the entire history of the US by John Lott, county by county. Click to expand...

But Lotts recent successes belie a far more shadowy past. A little over a decade ago, he was disgraced and his career was in tatters. Not only was Lotts assertion that more guns leads to more safety formally repudiated by a National Research Council panel, but he had also been caught pushing studies with severe statistical errors on numerous occasions. An investigation uncovered that he had almost certainly fabricated an entire survey on defensive gun use. And a blogger revealed that Mary Rosh, an online commentator claiming to be a former student of Lotts who would frequently post about how amazing he was, was in fact John Lott himself. He was all but excommunicated from academia.



Despite his ethical failings, Lott rose from the ashes in the wake of the 2012 mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School to once more become a prominent voice in the gun debate.



Perhaps unaware of Lotts previous transgressions, or believing he had turned a new page by founding the Crime Prevention Research Center (CPRC), many in the media who were desperate for an authoritative, pro-gun academic voice seized on Lotts credentials and provided him with a new platform. In the past few years, Lott and his organization have been cited by dozens of media outlets as an authority on gun violence statistics, including the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, LA Times, Politifact, CBS, CNN, Fox News, and many others.



However, the medias newfound faith in John Lott is deeply misguided. Rather than turn a new page, Lott has instead returned to his old playbook and used his platform to deceive the public. Our own multi-year investigation into Lott and his organization has uncovered a startling array of new ethical violations, ranging from the profoundly bizarre to the outright fraudulent.



Here are just five of the most troubling incidents:

....

The article continues at the web-site.
Kees Kruythoff, who has been at Unilever for more than 20 years, has bought shares in the firm worth 303,000.

The married Dutchman, who has five daughters, has worked for the company in Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America.

He is also the chairman of Enactus, a networking group for business, academic and student leaders that encourages entrepreneurialism in less-privileged regions.

He bought his shares for 43.39 each, helping Unilever rise 0.5 per cent, or 23.5p, to 4393p.
Ailing fashion firm New Look has fashioned a slight rise in profits as its efforts to cut costs start to pay off and it ploughs ahead with the closure of 70 under-performing stores.

The retailer, which is trying to appeal to a broader range of shoppers under new boss Alistair McGeorge, said profits edged up 1.5 per cent to 27.6 million in its first quarter.

It put this down to cutting 70 million of costs in the 13-week period, with plans to find more savings in the months ahead.

New Look is closing 70 of its shops through a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA)

However, sales continued on their downward spiral, falling 2.7 per cent to 329.4 million.

On a like-for-like basis, sales dropped 4 per cent - less steep than the 8.2 per cent recorded for the same period last year.

New Look is one of a number of retailers currently going through a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA) - an urgent and controversial restructuring process that enables firms to exit loss-making stores.

New Look is trying to appeal to a broader audience as is struggles to compete with the likes of Primark

New Look's CVA to shut 70 of its 600 UK shops will affect close to 1,000 jobs.

McGeorge, who was previously chaired the retailer between 2011 and 2013, returned to the business at the end of last year to help steer its return to health.

His initiatives include dropping prices and broadening New Look's appeal

'As we recover the broad appeal of our product, we were pleased to improve our market performance and deliver better customer conversion rates. This shows the strength and resilience of our brand, and the positive impact of the changes we are making,' he said.

'Our turnaround plans continue, and we will deliver further operational efficiencies whilst maintaining our resolute focus on our core strengths and heartland customer to ensure we remain on the right track.'

On an underlying basis, operating profits advanced 19 per cent to 14.4 million.
He is known as the 'Warrior Monk' who has lived a spartan life which he has devoted to the military.

But Secretary of Defense James Mattis once nearly quit the Armed Forces and got married - to a woman who jilted him at the altar.

Mattis's former fiancee Alice Clark told DailyMail.com that she left him three days before the ceremony in Hawaii in 1981 because she could not stand the prospect of being apart from him for months while he was on deployments.

Mattis was all set to quit the military and settle down with the only woman who would truly win his heart.

The 67-year-old Marine has never married and has no children.

In an exclusive interview Clark, now 71, said: 'If he had married me he wouldn't be Secretary of Defense.'

At the time Mattis was a 30-year-old Marine captain who was tipped for the top; Clark was 36, and an 'attractive, unattached' woman, according to a new book about Mattis.

Love, not war: Secretary of Defense James Mattis once nearly quit the Armed Forces to marry the only woman he truly loved, a new book reveals

The one who got away: Mattis was engaged to Alice Clark, 71, (pictured right with her husband Sefton, 69) but she called off the wedding three days before the ceremony

She called it off because she felt she would be a 'burden to him and his career' and made her dramatic decision even though guests had begun arriving and the caterers were getting ready, author Jim Proser writes in No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy: The Life of General James Mattis.

After breaking up with Mattis, Clark married her husband Sefton, 69, and spent the rest of her life in Hawaii where she remains to this day.

Mattis continued his career in the Marines and rose up the ranks and helped lead the US invasion of Iraq in 2003 before becoming Secretary of Defense under President Donald Trump.

Mattis has become known as the 'Warrior Monk' - a tough-talking intellectual who quotes Homer and Sun Tzu and takes books of Stoic meditations by Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius to the front lines.

His small stature and glasses belie a man who once told his troops: 'Be polite, be professional, but have a plan to kill everybody you meet'.

At the time Clark met Mattis she was known by her maiden name of Alice Gillis.

Mattis was in command of Kilo Company of the Third Marine Battalion of the Third Marine Division, also known as the 3/3 and was based in Kaneohe, Hawaii for training and exercises.

Mattis and his troops had returned from Operation Eagle Claw, the backup rescue mission for the Iran hostage crisis, and had a stop in Perth, Australia on the way back.

Mattis, 67, joined the U.S. Marine Corps during his second year of college and rose up the ranks and helped lead the U.S. invasion of Iraq before becoming secretary of defense (pictured in Kabul in 2011 talking with then Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen)

He earned his nickname of 'Warrior Monk' by rarely eating while on the field and when he did he would chew on standard issue military rations. Above he is pictured with then FBI Director Robert Mueller in Afghanistan in 2002, at the country's Kandahar Airport, which had become a key base as U.S. forces helped drive the Taliban out of power

Mattis's new biography states that his 'frequent moves to different parts of the world' began to weigh on his fiancee and she would later give him an ultimatum. He was later photographed leading Marines in Afghanistan in 2001 (left) and Iraq in 2003

According to the biography, when they were back in Hawaii, Mattis and Clark began their relationship 'slowly' and Mattis 'kept it from most of his closest colleagues'.

The book says: 'Because she shares his reverential worldview and has a deep appreciation for the Marine Corps, the romance grows.

'He is ready for this romance. Mattis has traveled the world, met civilian and military leaders in dozens of nations and seen much of what the world has to offer.

'He has tested himself in extreme conditions and passed those tests. He has found his place among men in the brotherhood of arms. His obvious self-confidence in the simple spartan lifestyle of a Marine officer signals his maturity and readiness for a more serious relationship.

'He relinquishes command in matters of the heart to Alice'.

The idyll was short-lived and in April 1980 Mattis was deployed again, this time to Africa, the Middle East, and the Philippines, returning more than three months later in August.

He proposed to Clark, she accepted and they set a date in June 1981 to coincide with his return from his next posting.

They planned a 'private' ceremony with a few close friends and family but a few days before Mattis was due to depart, Clark began to have doubts.

The book says that the long times apart, the 'frequent moves to different parts of the world' and the 'constant threat' of him being killed start to weigh on her.

The book says that Clark gave Mattis an ultimatum: choose her or the Corps.

Speaking to DailyMail.com Clark gave her account of what happened next

'We were engaged to be married but it didn't work out. Three days before the wedding his commanding officer called me and said he resigning because of you. I called off the wedding,' she said.

'If he had married me he wouldn't be Secretary of Defense'.

Mrs Clark recalled Mattis as 'very real, no BS, very kind'.

She said: 'Being a military wife would have been OK, the trouble was his deployments, him being gone for months at a time'.

She said Mattis was 'very sad' when she told him she was breaking it off but it was the right thing to do, 'I just remember him as a good man.'

No Better Friend offers a slightly different account.

Mattis served as 11th Commander of United States Central Command before becoming Secretary of Defense under President Donald Trump

The book says that Clark actually withdrew her demand for Mattis to quit the military after a 'love assault' from his commanding officers and their wives offering their support.

Her 'deep misgivings' subsided and at her request, Mattis tore up his resignation papers and went on his next assignment.

When he got back the wedding was proceeding with a 'customary frenzy' with relatives from the mainland arriving and the caterers getting ready, when Clark had another wobble.

'She realizes that Mattis is going to have an exceptional future in the Corps,' the author writes.

'His time will increasingly not be his own. She simply can't imagine their married life being anything other than an unhappy waiting game. She realizes she will be a burden to him and his career.

'This time only a few truly close friends rush to the couple's support.

'They beg Alice to reconsider and be patient. Jim Mattis, they stress, is worth the wait. It won't always be as it has been recently'.

Mattis's colleagues say that he 'hasn't looked at another woman since their engagement'.

Mattis and Clark have an 'agonizing talk but she is not swayed' - and they canceled the wedding.

No Better Friend describes Mattis' life since his relationship with Clark as a 'gentlemanly ladies' man but a lifelong bachelor'.

He earned his nickname of 'Warrior Monk' by rarely eating while in the field and when he did he would chew on standard issue military rations.

In his spare time, Mattis does push ups and runs around the command post to keep up his energy.

In August 2002 he took over as commander of the 22,000 Marines of the 1st Marine Division during the invasion of Iraq.

During the siege of Baghdad he stayed awake for more than 40 hours and was so disciplined he used the toilet just once every 18 hours.

Mattis's Marines were given a reading list of materials - it ran to more than 1,000 pages from 72 sources - each with notes as to why Mattis thought it was important.

They included T.E. Lawrence's '27 Articles', a summary of everything the British officer had learned about fighting the Arabs.

Mattis also insisted on touring the battlefields himself and took up positions that were so dangerous he was nearly killed during one shelling which claimed the lives of two Marines.

No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy, published by Broadside Books will hit the stands August 7, 2018

According to the book, Mattis asked the first media relations officer assigned to tutor him if he was hired to 'make sure I don't say f***'.

He called some of his Marines 'cocky, obnoxious b*******' and screamed at one of his officers during the invasion of Baghdad: 'If you're taking fire from a building, level the f****** building!'

Mattis grew up in Pullman, Washington and attended Central Washington University at the height of the protests about the Vietnam War.

He considered staying in school and enjoyed months of 'intense study, skirt chasing and drinking contests' while he debated if he should enlist, the author writes.

'Short hair and a possible reputation as a "baby killer" after recent reports of civilian massacres are not going to help him of his fellow soldiers with the long-haired free love hippie chicks who occupy a significant portion of his brain space.

'Walking point in a steaming booby-trapped jungle may be about even with being rejected by young women on his list of downsides of military service'.

Mattis considered joining the military to be 'fun-wrecking, dangerous, maybe even fatal'.

But in his sophomore year he signed up; later Mattis said he only thought he would be in for a few years and would have probably been drafted anyway because he had a low number'.

Clark's appreciation for the marines did not die after her relationship with Mattis ended.

She helped to raise money for the Pacific War Memorial in Hawaii at the Marine Corps Base in Kaneohe Bay, a replica of the National Iwo Jima Memorial in Newington, Connecticut.

The memorial was designed to commemorate the Battle of Iwo Jima and the Pacific campaigns and the soldiers who used Kaneohe Bay as a base to launch their operations.

The website for the project said that Clark and her husband, neither of whom served in the military, worked on the project for decades.

Clark became an expert about oral and photographic history collection and has taught hundreds of school children how to build their own archives.

Clark and her husband have also met dozens of veterans and learned about their experiences in the military first hand.

No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy, published by Broadside Books, is available for pre-order on Amazon
Philadelphia police officer Jaison Potts who was shot in the face Monday while helping fellow SWAT officers serve a warrant at the home of 59-year-old Ricardo Giddings, who was killed in the shootout with the cops

A Philadelphia grandfather was shot dead and his wife was wounded after he mistook the members of a SWAT team entering his home to serve an arrest warrant for his grandson for robbers and opened fire on them, shooting one officer in the face.

'This is an all-out, absolute tragedy all the way around,' Commissioner Richard Ross told reporters Monday afternoon.

Police SWAT team members converged on the home of 59-year-old Ricardo Giddings in the 4800 block of Knox Street at 6am in search of his 20-year-old grandson on a weapons violation warrant.

The warrant stemmed from a social media post that allegedly depicted a man armed with a gun, investigators said.

The homeowner apparently did not hear the cops repeatedly announce that they were police officers and fearing a home invasion, told his wife, Joann Giddings, to flee out the rear of the home, according to Ross.

'And he went about the business of protecting his home, not knowing that it was the police at the door that he was firing upon,' Ross said.

Giddings then fired on police, striking 49-year-old Officer Jaison Potts, who suffered a broken jaw and may have artery damage along with other injuries.

Ross said Potts, whom he described as a 'very tough guy,' was able to walk into Temple University Hospital despite bleeding heavily and was expected to survive. He was under heavy sedation because of his critical injuries and was scheduled for surgery Tuesday.

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Joan Giddings, 67 (left and right), was shot by a shotgun pellet in the stomach and suffered back injuries while fleeing the house at the urging of her husband

SWAT officers entered the Giddings' home in Germantown Monday morning to serve an arrest warrant for their 20-year-old grandson

Police say they repeatedly announced their presence, but Ricardo Giddings apparently did not hear them over his TV

Officers returned fire, and Giddings was later pronounced dead of his injuries. His 67-year-old wife was struck by a ricocheted shotgun pellet in the abdomen and also sustained back injuries while trying to run away.

Mrs Giddings was said to be in stable condition at Albert Einstein Medical Center. The couple's grandson being sought later turned himself in, but was released without charge after being questioned by police.

'We want to figure out what went wrong here,' the Giddings' daughter LaQuisha Johnson told NBC10. 'My dad is dead and my mom is in the hospital and fighting for her life.'

Ross said Ricardo Giddings may not have heard police announce their presence due to a television set being on. He said police made the announcement more than once and neighbors reported hearing them do so.

One of Giddings' daughters is pictured sobbing outside her parents' home after the death of her father

Police later questioned the Giddings' grandson and let him go without charge

Officer Potts is a 20-year veteran with a wife and three children. He was supposed to start his vacation on Monday evening

'It is important to note that we did not fire until we were fired upon, but sadly it doesn't change the circumstances that ... all accounts, this is just tragedy,' Ross said.

Asked whether the situation could have been avoided, Ross said 'I don't see how.'

He said SWAT serves about 300 such 'high-risk' warrants each year without incident, and the last time SWAT members even fired their weapons was in 2015. In each of the three previous incidents, officers were shot while making entry, he said.

Potts is a 20-year veteran of the force. Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney said the married father of three was due to start a vacation on Monday evening.

Joann Giddings, Ross said, is actually the mother-in law of one of the department's own officers.
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Twin blazes tearing through northern California fueled by dry vegetation and hot, windy weather have now grown to become the largest wildfire in state history.

The Mendocino Complex Fire expanded nearly 80 percent over the weekend and has now scorched more than 283,000 acres north of San Francisco, forcing more than 20,000 people to evacuate and destroying at least 75 homes so far.

Firefighters are continuing to battle the rapidly-advancing blaze that is considered to be around 30 percent contained as of Monday night.

Comprised of the River and Ranch fires, the Mendocino Complex has now surpassed last year's Thomas Fire, which torched 281,893 acres in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, as the largest fire in California history.

Cal Fire officials said water-dropping aircraft made some progress against one of the fires in the complex over the weekend, while the other has grown substantially, spreading into the Mendocino National Forest.

The Mendocino Complex in northern California has become the largest wildfire in state history, fire officials said Monday

Months of drought and recent heat have dried out vegetation across the state, making the perfect conditions for wildfires

Over the weekend the twin fires grew by nearly 80 percent, taking over more than 283,000 acres north of San Francisco. Pictured: A helicopter douses the flames with fire retardant on Sunday near Clearlake Oaks, California

An air tanker drops retardant on part of the Mendocino Complex Fire, burning along High Valley Rd near Clearlake Oaks

The River and Ranch fires are about 30 percent contained after burning for more than a week in northern California

A hillside smolders in the wake of the Ranch Fire, which passed through the town of Clearlake Oaks over the weekend

Across the state more than 14,000 firefighters are working to contain 16 major fires fueled by persistent hot, dry and windy conditions following years of severe drought.

A brand new blaze called the Holy Fire was ignited on Monday in Orange County, quickly expanding to more than 1,200 acres.

To the north, the deadly Carr Fire has entered its third week of destruction in the scenic Shasta-Trinity region north of Sacramento, scorching more than 164,400 acres of land since July 23.

So far the Carr Fire has left seven people dead and razed more than 1,600 buildings, more than half of them family homes, state officials said Monday.

A new blaze dubbed the Holy Fire, above, cropped up in Orange County on Monday, becoming one of 16 across the state

The Riverside County Sheriff's Department tweeted an aerial view of the Holy Fire, which has already covered 1,200 acres

Helicopters attack a hot spot in Lake County on Monday as fire crews continue efforts to contain the Ranch Fire

A US Air Force plane blankets a burning hillside with bright-red fire retardant north of San Francisco on Sunday

A tree at the edge of a property in Clearlake Oaks burns from the inside during the Ranch Fire on Sunday evening

An orange haze hangs over the prolific flames of the Ranch Fire in Lake County as a truck drives by on Sunday afternoon

Towering flames approach a home near Clearlake Oaks, a community that has reportedly lost several buildings and homes

Experts are blaming the prolific fires on climate change, saying that hotter weather is drying out vegetation, creating more intense flames that spread quickly from rural areas to cities and towns.

Cal Fire deputy chief Scott McLean described the wildfires as 'extremely fast, extremely aggressive [and] extremely dangerous'.

'Look how big it got, just in a matter of days. Look how fast this Mendocino Complex went up in ranking. That doesn't happen. That just doesn't happen,' he said.

President Donald Trump responded to the devastation on Sunday in a tweet that was met with backlash because it appeared to place blame on poor environmental laws rather than climate change.

Trump reacted to the devastation in California in a pair of tweets on Sunday and Monday in which he blames environmental laws and says water is 'foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean'

'California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized,' Trump wrote.

'It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading!'

Fire officials have condemned the presidents comments, saying that they are not in fact struggling to source enough water to contain the fires.

'We have plenty of water to fight these wildfires, but let's be clear: It's our changing climate that is leading to more severe and destructive fires,' Daniel Berlant, Cal Fire assistant deputy director, told The New York Times.

Trump doubled-down on his earlier comments in a second tweet on Monday in which he accused the state 'foolishly' diverting river water into the ocean, which environmental experts say is not accurate.

'Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else,' Trump tweeted Monday afternoon.

'Think of California with plenty of Water - Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals.'

Trump issued an Emergency Declaration for the state on July 28, and Brown has now requested that the president declare a major disaster.

'Battling these relentless fires requires a Herculean effort,' the governor wrote in the request Friday.

The fires in Northern California have created such a haze of smoke in the Central Valley that Sacramento County health officials advised residents to avoid outdoor activities for the entire week.

A plume of smoke from a wildfire burning near the Holy Jim area looms in the distance Monday in Lake Forest

Authorities have evacuated cabins in two communities in the Santa Ana Mountains in Orange County because of a fast-moving wildfire. Pictured: Two residents observe the smoke on Monday afternoon
Military troops and other defense personnel at sensitive bases or certain high-risk warzone areas won't be allowed to use fitness trackers or cellphone applications that can reveal their location, according to a new Pentagon order.

The memo, obtained by The Associated Press, stops short of banning the fitness trackers or other electronic devices, which are often linked to cellphone applications or smart watches and can provide the users' GPS and exercise details to social media.

The order says the applications on personal or government-issued devices present a 'significant risk' to military personnel, so those capabilities must be turned off in certain operational areas.

The Pentagon released a memo that restricts military and defense personnel's use of fitness tracking devices like these, as well as location-revealing apps, for mission security reasons

While military personnel abroad might be restricted from using their fitness trackers, those at non-sensitive locations would be allowed to use them at will

Under the new order, military leaders will be able to determine whether troops under their command can use the GPS function on their devices, based on the security threat in that area or on that base.

'These geolocation capabilities can expose personal information, locations, routines, and numbers of DOD personnel, and potentially create unintended security consequences and increased risk to the joint force and mission,' the memo said.

Defense personnel who aren't in sensitive areas will be able to use the GPS applications if the commanders conclude they don't present a risk.

For example, troops exercising at major military bases around the country, such at Fort Hood in Texas or Norfolk Naval Station in Virginia, would likely be able to use the location software on their phones or fitness devices.

Troops on missions in more sensitive locations, such as Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan or parts of Africa, meanwhile, would be restricted from using the devices or be required to turn off any location function.

The Pentagon memo comes seven months after the January release of fitness app Strava's Global Heat Map, showing where hot spots of activity using data collected from 2015 to 2017

A closeup of Baghdad includes a hot spot where the Camp Liberty base, shuttered in 2016, was located. Observers thought Strava's data could be used to help pinpoint troop activity

Army Col. Rob Manning, a Pentagon spokesman, said it's a move to ensure the enemy can't easily target U.S. forces.

'It goes back to making sure that we're not giving the enemy an unfair advantage and we're not showcasing the exact locations of our troops worldwide,' Manning said.

Concerns about exercise trackers and other electronic devices came to a head in January in the wake of revelations that an interactive, online map was pinpointing troop locations, bases and other sensitive areas around the world.

The Global Heat Map, published by the GPS tracking company Strava, used satellite information to map the locations of subscribers to Strava's fitness app service.

At the time, the map showed activity from 2015 through September 2017. And while heavily populated areas were well lit, warzones such as Iraq and Syria show scattered pockets of activity that could denote military or government personnel using fitness trackers as they move around.

Observers noted that few local residents owned the devices and that the activity seen on the heat map allowed for the mapping of military bases and potentially even top secret sites.

The Pentagon made the decision to restrict the devices and apps to make sure 'the enemy' doesn't have an 'unfair advantage' and the prevent advertising of exact troop locations

At the time of the heat map's release, Australian National University student Nathan Ruser, posted findings on Twitter in which he noted Strava user activities that could be related to US military personal at forward operating bases in Afghanistan, Turkish military patrols in Syria, and a possible guard patrol in the Russian operating area of Syria, Wired reported.

The Pentagon immediately launched a review, noting that the electronic signals could potentially disclose the location of troops who are in secret or classified locations or on small forward operating bases in hostile areas.

This is the second memo affecting the use of cellphones and other electronic devices that the department has released in recent months. In May, defense officials laid out new restrictions for the use of cellphones and other mobile wireless devices inside the Pentagon.

That memo called for stricter adherence to long-held practices that require phones be left in storage containers outside secure areas where sensitive matters are discussed. But it also stopped short of banning the devices, and instead made clear that cellphones can still be used in common areas and other offices in the Pentagon if classified information is not present.

The latest memo says the new restrictions include GPS functions on fitness trackers, phones, tablets, smartwatches and other applications.

The Pentagon also said it will provide additional cybersecurity training to include the risks posed by the trackers and other mobile devices.

Heather Pierce, a spokeswoman for Fitbit, said Monday: 'Fitbit is committed to protecting consumer privacy and keeping data safe. Unlike a smartphone, location data is not collected by Fitbit unless a user gives us access to the data, and users can always remove our access.'

Fitbit users are able to connect their devices to Strava, allowing friends to see any Fitbit-related activities.
A Muslim father who was one of five arrested for mistreating 11 children on a New Mexico compound wanted to perform an exorcism on his son.

Cops also found a huge arsenal of weapons, including an AR-15, when they raided the rural property and found the youngsters had been starved and abused.

They also couldn't find one of the sons, who suffers from seizures.

Documents made public in a court filing Monday said Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, the boy's father, told the child's mother before fleeing Georgia that he wanted to perform an exorcism on the child because he believed he was possessed by the devil.

Sisters Subhanah Wahhaj, 35, (left) and Hujrah Wahhaj, 38, (right) were arrested on Sunday

Jany Leveille, who also goes by the name Maryam, was also arrested for child abuse on Sunday

Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, 39, had an AR-15 rifle, 150 rounds of ammunition and four loaded pistols at the site. He has been on the run since December when he vanished with his three-year-old disabled son from Georgia. The toddler was not found. His brother-in-law Lucas Morton (right) was also charged with harboring a fugitive. He is married to Siraj's sister Subhanah

Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe said deputies arrested the father, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, and four other adults on child abuse charges after finding the 11 children Friday inside a makeshift compound in the tiny community of Amalia.

It was littered with 'odorous trash' and lacking clean water, authorities said.

Inside, Wahhaj, 39, was found heavily armed with multiple firearms, including a loaded AR-15, before he was taken into custody, the sheriff said.

His son, Abdul-ghani (AG), who was 3 when he disappeared last December, was not among the children found.

But Hogrefe said authorities have reason to believe the boy was at the compound several weeks ago.

This is the New Mexico compound where 11 children were found on Friday being held by their Muslim extremist father and uncle, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, along with their parents

Hogrefe's deputies are searching for the child, along with the FBI and Georgia authorities in Clayton County, where officials say the boy was living before his father took him around Dec. 1, 2017.

The boy's mother told authorities the boy suffers from seizures, cannot walk because of severe medical issues, and requires constant attention.

She told police in December that Wahhaj had taken the boy for a trip to a park and never returned.

Siraj's three-year-old son AG, who has hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and requires daily medication, has been missing since December and was not at the compound

Clayton County police said in a missing persons bulletin that Wahhaj and his son were last seen Dec. 13 in Alabama, traveling with five other children and two adults.

Georgia authorities said Wahhaj was traveling through Chilton County on Dec. 13 with seven children and another adult when their car overturned.

Wahhaj told police the group was traveling from Georgia to New Mexico to go camping.

The trooper who wrote the report said he found no camping equipment in or near the vehicle but that Wahhaj was in possession of three handguns, two rifles, a bag of ammunition, and a bulletproof vest.

Wahhaj told the trooper that he owned the guns legally and had a Georgia permit to carry concealed weapons.

'Mr. Wahhaj seemed to be very concerned about his weapons and stated several times that they were his property and that he owned them legally,' the report said.

The conditions inside the compound were described by police as the worst they had seen in 30 years

There was no food at the compound and the children had terrible personal hygiene, police said

Amalia is 145 miles northeast of Albuquerque and in an isolated high-desert area near the New Mexico-Colorado border

It was not immediately known Monday whether Wahhaj and the others charged in the child abuse case in New Mexico -another man and three women believed to be the mother of the 11 children - had retained attorneys.

The public defender's office in Taos County did not immediately return telephone message from The Associated Press seeking comment.

The Taos County sheriff identified the women facing charges as 35-year-old Jany Leveille, 38-year-old Hujrah Wahhaj, and 35-year-old Subhannah Wahhaj.

They were arrested in the town of Taos and booked into jail.

Sunbhanah and Hujrah are Siraj's sisters and Jany is his wife. She worked for his father, Imam Siraj Wahhaj, at the Masjid At-Taqwa mosque in Brooklyn before relocating with her husband to Georgia in 2014. She is not AG's mother.

The family has been missing since January when their father, Imam Siraj Wahhaj, appealed for information about them on Facebook

The children's grandfather is Imam Siraj Wahhaj, the leader of the Muslim Alliance of North America and the leader of a mosque in Brooklyn, New York City

The search at the compound came amid a two-month investigation in collaboration with Clayton County authorities and the FBI, according to Hogrefe.

He said FBI agents surveilled the area a few weeks ago but did not find probable cause to search the property.

That changed when Georgia detectives forwarded a message to Hogrefe's office that initially had been sent to a third party, saying: 'We are starving and need food and water.'

Authorities will not say how the message was delivered or who gave it to them but Sheriff Hogrefe said it meant he could not wait any longer for federal authorities to move in on the site.

He enlisted a special forces team to lead the raid because he knew the men inside were heavily armed, he added.

What authorities found was what Hogrefe called 'the saddest living conditions and poverty' he has seen in 30 years on the job.

Other than a few potatoes and a box of rice, there was little food in the compound, which Hogrefe said consisted of a small travel trailer buried in the ground and covered by plastic with no water, plumbing and electricity.

AG's mother Hakima Ramzi was married to his father without incident for 15 years, she said. She has been pleading for AG's return since December and is seen above in a Facebook video appealing for help to find them

Hogrefe said the adults and children - ages 1 to 15 - had no shoes, wore dirty rags for clothing and 'looked like Third World country refugees.'

The grandfather of the missing boy, Imam Siraj Wahhaj of Brooklyn, New York, issued a plea on Facebook for helping finding his grandson.

In a federal court filing in 2006, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj claimed he was harassed on his way to and from Morocco by customs agents at JFK Airport in New York because he is 'the son of the famous Muslim Imam Siraj Wahhaj.'

The earliest record of Siraj Ibn Wahhaj in the United States dates back to 1983.

It is not clear where he lived beforehand or if he was born in the US.

In January, his father pleaded for information about their whereabouts.

'Dear Brothers and Sisters, please make duas for the safe return of our children and grandchildren: Siraj, Hujrah, Subhanah Wahhaj, son in law Luqman (Lucas) Morton, and daughter in law Maryam (Jany) Leveille and their children (our 12 grandchildren).

'We believe they may be traveling together,' he said in a Facebook post.

He has not commented on his children's arrest. Imam Wahhaj is the leader of The Muslim Alliance in North America.

Police are still looking for three-year-old AG.

AG's mother Hakima Ramzi has made desperate social media appeals to find her son again.

Her friends have also set up a GoFundMe page to help pay for the search.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's nephew has reportedly been charged with cocaine possession.

Harry Hughes, a former staffer for NSW Planning Minister Anthony Roberts, was arrested at a bar in Sydney's CBD last month, according to The Australian.

Mr Hughes was said to be caught by undercover detectives, who allegedly found 0.7g of cocaine in his possession.

Malcolm Turnbull's nephew Harry Hughes (pictured) has reportedly been charged after he was found in possession of cocaine

The 23-year-old is the son of Michael Hughes, the brother of Malcolm Turnbull's wife.

A statement from NSW Police provided to Daily Mail Australia said officers charged a man over alleged drug possession.

'About 5pm on Friday 6 July 2018, officers from Redfern Region Enforcement Squad stopped and searched a 23-year-old man on Phillip Street, Sydney, before seizing an amount of cocaine,' the statement read.

'The man was arrested and charged with possess prohibited drug.'

Police said the man appeared in Sydney's Downing Centre Court on July 30 where he was granted conditional bail. He will next face the same court on September 10.

Harry Hughes is the nephew of Lucy Turnbull, the wife of Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. Mr and Mrs Turnbull are pictured together

Mr Hughes was moved on from job as Mr Roberts' staffer last September, reportedly at the request of Premier Gladys Berejiklian, who wanted the planning minister to have fewer political advisers and more planning aides.

He became a lobbyist for property developers within a month and registered Axis Strategic Advisory, which lists clients including Atilol Holdings, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Prime Minister's office for comment.

The allegations come after Ray Hadley's police officer son was arrested and charged with cocaine possession on Friday night.

Ray Hadley's police officer son Daniel Hadley was arrested on Friday night after he was allegedly found with cocaine

Senior Constable Daniel Hadley was allegedly caught with of 0.79 grams of the drug, with a street value of $200, at the Australian Hotel and Brewery at Rouse Hill in Sydney's north-west.

He was admitted to a mental health clinic after being granted bail at the weekend following an internal police investigation.

Police are reviewing Daniel Hadley's employment and removed him from 'operational duties'.

Ray Hadley fought back tears in an emotional press conference following his son's arrest, saying he felt 'inadequate as a father'.

Daniel Hadley is expected to face Parramatta Local Court on September 12.
A shooting that wounded a disc jockey at a Wisconsin radio station appears to have been a targeted attack against a specific individual, police said Monday.

DJ Eugene Crisler'El was injured during Sunday's shooting at WORT-FM in Madison.

Police spokesman David Dexheimer said it wasn't a random attack or an act of violence targeting the media.

A shooting that wounded DJ Eugene Crisler'El (pictured) at WORT-FM, a Wisconsin radio station, appears to have been a targeted attack against a specific individual, police said Monday

Crisler'El was injured during Sunday's shooting at WORT-FM in Madison. Rebecca Barber (right) was another volunteer in the station on Sunday

Authorities said they are still looking for the masked gunman who entered the non-commercial radio station (pictured) around 3am on Sunday and opened fire on three people in one of the studios

Authorities said they are still looking for the masked gunman who entered the non-commercial radio station around 3am on Sunday and opened fire on three people in one of the studios.

Crisler'El was one of the volunteers inside the station at the time. He was wounded, treated at a local hospital and released. The two others were not injured.

He told 27 News: 'I mean we were pretty, we were trapped... so it was like.. what do you do?... you're just in fight or flight mode. Luckily, the reaction time was there for everyone.

Rebecca Barber was another volunteer in the station on Sunday.

She told the station that her 'motto has always been what's next'.

'Don't take it lightly, but at the same time, what's next? I'm a firm believer of everything does happen for a reason so if something negative does happen I have to try to find the positive to put out from there,' she added.

A security camera at the station's front entry used to monitor visitors is not yet capable of recording and did not capture the intruder, Holtz said. Pictured is a bullet hole in the glass window

It was unclear whether the shooter knew the code or held the door open after someone entered the station

Station officials said the three ran into the adjacent control room before hiding in the music library and calling 911.

Doug Holtz, the station's business director, said they are reviewing security practices.

'We've changed out the codes on all our door locks. And we are reasserting (to staff) to keep those codes private,' Holtz said.

A security camera at the station's front entry used to monitor visitors is not yet capable of recording and did not capture the intruder, Holtz said.

The shooter entered the station during the transition between the midnight program and 3am show, station officials said.

It was unclear whether the shooter knew the code or held the door open after someone entered the station.

The listener-sponsored station, which broadcasts a variety of music, was off the air following the shooting but returned to broadcasting about six hours later.
Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has warned that any future NATO decision to admit Georgia to its ranks could trigger 'a terrible conflict' and questioned why the alliance would consider such a move.

Medvedev's comments come weeks after President Vladimir Putin warned NATO against cultivating closer ties with Ukraine and Georgia, saying such a policy was irresponsible and would have unspecified consequences for the alliance.

'This (Georgia's entry to NATO) could provoke a terrible conflict. I dont understand what they are doing this for,' Medvedev told Russia's Kommersant newspaper in an interview on Monday.

Russian PM Dmitry Medvedev holds a meeting at his Gorki residence today. He has warned against Georgia joining NATO.

Georgia's NATO ambitions have been a source of anger for Russia - which shares a border with ex-Soviet republic Georgia and does not want to see it join what it regards as a hostile military bloc - since 2008 when NATO leaders promised Georgia it would one day join the alliance.

Russian forces entered two breakaway Georgian regions in 2008, which remain garrisoned by Russian troops to this day, something Moscow says is in keeping with local people's wishes, but which the West and the Georgian government call an illegal occupation.

NATO leaders discussed ties with Georgia at their summit in Brussels in July, a move Medvedev, who was president when Russian and Georgian forces clashed in 2008, condemned.

'As for the recent NATO decision reaffirming its commitment to eventually admit Georgia, what can I say to this? It is an absolutely irresponsible position and a threat to peace,' said Medvedev.

Georgian soldiers observe terrain near Gori, Georgia northwest of capital Tbilisi in a file image from 2008. The Russian military quickly routed the Georgian army during the war.

Georgian soldiers are seen atop a tank in August 2008 as it makes its way along a street, as a monument to Soviet dictator Josef Stalin is seen in the background, in Gori, Georgia.

Prominent Georgian politicians are keen for their country to join the Western military alliance, but have seen their chances of joining hampered by Russian territorial incursions into the two breakaway territories - South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Russia has recognised the two regions as independent states and Medvedev said Georgia's entry into NATO therefore raised the risk of conflict with Moscow.

Asked what would happen if Georgia joined NATO without the two regions and whether there was a risk of conflict, Medvedev said:

'Yes, clearly so, because we view Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states. We understand that if any other country claims that they are part of its national territory, this may have severe consequences. Therefore, I hope that the NATO leadership will have enough sense not to take any steps in this direction.'

Under NATO rules, countries with territorial conflicts cannot join the alliance.
The Trump administration's plans to erect hundreds of miles of border barriers with Mexico fails to adequately consider costs, a congressional watchdog agency said Monday, potentially raising the price and creating delays.

The administration has estimated it will cost $18 billion for 722 miles of barriers but that was based on an average cost per mile. Trump has asked for $25 billion from Congress.

The Government Accountability Office said costs can vary considerably based on the slope and topography, land acquisition costs and other factors.

Without more information, the Department of Homeland Security 'faces an increased risk that the Border Wall System Program will cost more than projected, take longer than planned, or not fully perform as expected,' the GAO wrote.

Customs and Border Protection, an agency within Homeland Security, 'does not have complete information to determine whether it is using limited resources in the most cost-effective manner and does not have important cost information that would help it develop future budget requests,' the report continues.

President Donald Trump inspects border wall prototypes in San Diego in March

It costs $20 million for eight border wall prototypes

Homeland Security official Jim Crumpacker, in a response included as an appendix to the GAO report, said authorities are 'following best practices in evaluating costs, budget, and financial impact of border segments.'

He said financial costs were considered after an operational assessment of where walls were most needed.

Katie Waldman, a Homeland Security Department spokeswoman, said walls have proven 'extremely effective.'

U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat and ranking member of the House Homeland Security Committee who requested the report, said, 'In moving too fast, they have ignored necessary and established acquisitions protocols and plan to build a multibillion-dollar border wall where their own analysis shows it is not a priority.

'To be blunt, this Administration has no clue what it is doing and must be held accountable.'

Additionally the report found that $20 million was spent on contractors to build eight prototypes of the wall that Congress determined are not feasible.

None of the designs - which include four concrete walls - are project-ready, the GAO concluded.

Aerial picture taken with a drone of the urban fencing on the border between the U.S. and Mexico in Tecate

The four concrete options would have 'extensive' challenges if they were built only the border terrain. Two of the non-concrete designs were rated tough to build.

The government says it won't adopt any of the eight designs and, instead, will try to incorporate those into future wall-building plans.

A House spending bill released last month offers $5 billion to build the wall, while the Senate version contains $1.6 billion.

The nearly 2,000-mile U.S.-Mexican border already has fencing along 654 of those miles. Trump has yet to secure the government funded necessary to complete the project.

The GAO report recommended 'that DHS analyze the costs associated with future barrier segments and include that analysis in future planning, and document plans for the planned secondary barrier replacement in the San Diego sector.'

DHS concurred with the recommendations.
A five-year-old English bulldog that belonged to former New England Patriots linebacker Jerod Mayo has been found dead inside a trash bag at the home of its trainer, who is now facing obstruction of justice charges.

The Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals found the dog, Knox, and claims it died in the custody of trainer Amelia Ferreira, who was arraigned Monday. The animal rights group says the trainer is being charged by Cranston, Rhode Island police with one count of obstruction of justice. She could face charges of animal cruelty depending on the results of a necropsy.

Knox had been missing since late May, when he was left with Off-Leash K9 Training - Ferreira's employer. But when the family repeatedly tried to pick him up, they were allegedly given a series of excuses, according to Boston's CBS affiliate, WBZ-TV.

It remains unclear if the Mayos dropped Knox off with Ferreira directly or if Off-Leash K9 Training initially received the dog. Off-Leash K9 Training did not respond to a request for comment.

The Mayos enlisted private investigators and even scuba divers in an effort to find the dog after Ferreira allegedly told police in June that Knox ran off during a walk. Ferreira went on to change her story, later claiming that that the dog had been in a crate inside her apartment, but had gone missing.

Mayo not only blamed the trainer herself, but pointed the finger at her employer.

'If I call an Uber, we expect that Uber has already vetted this trainer,' the 32-year-old Mayo told reporters. 'We thought Off-Leash K9 already went through this process with Amelia.'

The Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says the dog named Knox (left) died in the custody of a trainer, who has been identified as Amelia Ferreira (right)

Knox was prominently featured in the Mayo family's Christmas photos last December

Mayo's wife Chantel was horrified that the dog was found in a trash bag.

'To think that he was in a trash bag? Is that what they really thought of him? That he was a piece of trash?' she told reporters on Monday.

The trainer initially told police that Knox ran off during a walk, according to Boston.com. The dog's e-collar was even discovered on a nearby trail, but Knox was nowhere to be found.

RHODE ISLAND SPCA STATEMENT ON KNOX On 08/05/18, The Rhode Island SPCA recovered the deceased body of 'Knox', the 5-year-old English Bulldog, owned by the Mayo family. The body was found in a residence in the Edgewood section of Cranston, where the dog trainer resided. Knox died while in the custody of the trainer, Amelia Ferreira. Ferreira is being charged by the Cranston Police Department, with one count of Obstruction, for concealing evidence relevant to this investigation. Evidence revealed that Ferreira has known the whereabouts of Knox's deceased body for several weeks and intentionally concealed his body from authorities. Cause of death is currently unknown, and additional charges relating to animal cruelty may follow, pending the results of a necropsy. Advertisement

The RISPCA claims Ferreira knew about Knox's whereabouts 'for several weeks,' while she 'intentionally concealed his body from authorities.'

In an Instagram post on Monday, Mayo wrote that the dog was hidden in a trash bag for two months while it was made to look as though he ran away, was stolen or drowned. The ordeal, Mayo explained, sent he and his wife 'on a wild goose hunt and our kids on an emotional roller coaster.'

In June, Wrentham, Massachusetts police addressed the 'mysterious' disappearance of Knox on social media, asking for any information after the dog 'simply vanished.' The circumstances were puzzling because English bulldogs are not known to run far or fast.

The episode had clearly been weighing on the Mayo family, judging from a July Instagram post that featured a picture of the couple's wedding.

'July has always been our favorite month,' Mayo wrote. 'It's the month we were married and had our first two babies. It's safe to say his July was a far cry from our norm. I worked hard to make it feel normal as possible with a piece of our puzzle missing. It was good to see you all smile this weekend. Thanks for being strong! I'm still working hard towards the big request to #bringhomeknox.'

Mayo and his wife Chantel have four young children: three daughters and one son.

Mayo took aim at the trainer on Instagram, questioning how someone who supposedly loves animals could hide a beloved family pet 'IN A CLOSET FOR TWO MONTHS'

According to the 32-year-old Mayo, Ferriera gave the family several false leads, alternately suggesting that the dog ran away, was stolen, or even drowned: 'We've hired scuba teams, private investigators, lawyers and more when they knew they HAD HIM IN THEIR HOME IN A TRASH BAG tucked away the whole two months. Yeah, A TRASH BAG!'

Mayo was adamantly upset that his children were dragged through 'emotional roller coaster'

Mayo, who won a Super Bowl in New England before his career was cut short by injuries, is also angry that the police wasted their time investigating a false claim.

'Think about the resources that were wasted both personal and also law enforcement,' Mayo said. 'There were police officers that were called out to Wrentham to look for a dog that was never in Wrentham.'

Mayo, 32, was named to two Pro Bowls before his career was cut short by injuries in 2015

Mayo went into greater depth on Instagram:

'Unfortunately, the answers we prayed for regarding Knox aren't ones we were ready to face,' Mayo and his wife, Chantel, wrote on Instagram Monday. 'Knox has passed and his BODY WAS FOUND IN THE HOME OF THE OFFLEASH TRAINER. It's disgusting and inhumane that a company full of 'dog lovers' would hide a family pet IN A CLOSET FOR TWO MONTHS and compulsively lie and send us on a wild goose hunt and our kids on an emotional rollercoaster.

'We've hired scuba teams, private investigators, lawyers and more when they knew they HAD HIM IN THEIR HOME IN A TRASH BAG tucked away the whole two months. Yeah, A TRASH BAG!' he wrote. 'We raised Knox like our child, as you guys can see from our photos and those of you who know us. It hurts to have to accept that our beloved Knox was thought of as trash as they saw our family hurting.'

'Currently, all that these people are facing is obstruction,' Mayo continued. 'Not animal cruelty or filing false police reports or for plain ole tossing someone's family member in a trash bag and storing it! From the Mayo family, we want to thank all of the people who spent countless hours looking for Knox. To our social media family, thank you for posting every day. We still have work to do..we need to bring awareness to this problem so it never happens again. This is just getting started.'
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The white sandy beaches of an idyllic Indonesian island have turned into tourist hell during a panicked evacuation.

Holidaymakers are crammed onto the sand on Gili Trawangan near Lombok in a rush to get off the island, but only a handful were able to make it to Bali.

Beaches on the tropical island were packed with crowds of tourists and locals after the devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake which has left at least 98 dead.

Some Australian travellers were forced to wait from dawn on Monday until nightfall to get off Gili Trawangan, which is only accessible by boat.

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The white sandy beaches of an idyllic Indonesian island have been transformed from a paradise into a tourist hell during a panicked evacuation after an earthquake that killed at least 98 people

Holidaymakers crammed onto the sand on Gili Trawangan near Lombok in a rush to get off the island, but only a handful were able to make it to Bali

Beaches on the tropical island were packed with crowds of tourists and locals after the devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake

Pictured is Gili Trawangan as it normally appears - the idyllic island was transformed into a tourist hell as holidaymakers rushed to escape the island after Sunday's earthquake

The Indonesian holiday island of Gili Trawangan is normally calm and peaceful - a far cry from this week's evacuation scenes

The death toll from the quake, which hit Lombok about 6.45pm on Sunday, is expected to rise and could hit 140.

Rescuers are still struggling to reach the worst-affected areas of the Indonesian island, where houses, schools and mosques have been reduced to rubble.

On the Gili Islands, tourists reacted to the tremors by grabbing their belongings and sprinting for higher ground in fear of a tsunami.

Melbourne man Dale Maffescioni was among those who managed to escape Gili Trawangan after his hotel was almost completely demolished in the quake.

On the Gili Islands, tourists reacted to the tremors by grabbing their belongings and sprinting for higher ground in fear of a tsunami

A handout photo made available by the Indonesian West Nusa Tenggara Marine Police shows hundreds of local and foreign tourists gathering on the beach

White sandy beaches on the holiday paradise of Gili Trawangan, lined with palm trees, bars and restaurants (pictured), became the scene of a panicked evacuation after the earthquake

Relieved foreign and domestic tourists arrive in Bali after being evacuated from the Gili islands in Lombok after the earthquake

The earthquake struck in the same location that was hit by a 6.4-magnitude quake that killed 16 people just a week earlier

The 38-year-old and his friends were taken to higher ground when the earthquake hit, and when they returned the found the hotel in ruins.

They were then taken to the harbour to be evacuated off the island, and was able to make it to Bali after a tense night in limbo, Nine News reported.

Mr Maffescioni said he received no help from the Australian government, and claimed his group were 'basically left to fend to ourselves in a catastrophic event'.

'I am very disappointed and hurt that there has been no contact from them, I even asked the last person I spoke to this morning to text or arrange a call to even confirm if we got off the island, and still not got anything,' he said.

'The worst part was not knowing anything from anyone especially after asking and [texting] for help [from the Australian government] so many times.'

Foreign tourists wait for transportation after locals and tourists were evacuated from the Gili islands north of Lombok, at a port in Bangsal on Indonesia's Lombok island

Houses damaged by the devastating earthquake are seen in North Lombok, Indonesia - so far 98 people have been confirmed dead

Residents and Indonesian search and rescue personnel look under the ruins of a mosque in Pemenang, North Lombok

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop reconfirmed on Tuesday no Australians have been killed or injured in the disaster and urged tourists to cooperate with local authorities.

'There are many who want to be evacuated, so allow the authorities to do that,' Ms Bishop said on Tuesday morning.

Australian consular staff are also working alongside Indonesian authorities to ensure holiday-makers trapped on the Gili Islands are safely evacuated.

Ms Bishop will meet with her Indonesian counterpart on Tuesday, having spoken with her several times in recent days.

'The Indonesian government has not asked for any assistance. We have said if there's something we can do to assist in this natural disaster we certainly would offer,' Ms Bishop said.

Evan Burns was at home with his wife and toddler son on Sunday night when a magnitude-7 earthquake hit the Indonesian island of Lombok

Mr Burns said 70 per cent of people staying at the resort he operates had made a mass exodus to the airport but many people were still stuck on the island

Another Australian, Evan Burns, who manages a resort on Lombok, believed he would die alongside his wife and toddler son when the quake struck on Sunday.

The earthquake all but destroyed his home, and he fears some of his neighbours perished in the rubble of their houses.

After surviving the jolt and a series of strong aftershocks, Mr Burns, his wife and his toddler son made a terrifying, 3km dash up a nearby mountain, fearing the quake may have spawned a deadly tsunami.

Nursing a twisted ankle, the family and about 200 others from their village waited in the dark for the danger to pass.

He has since returned home and is struggling to comprehend the scale of the destruction.

'The force was so severe that it threw us out of bed, and the walls immediately started cracking,' he told AAP.

A man has revealed how he though he was going to die when a magnitude-7 earthquake hit the Indonesian island of Lombok

His house is now uninhabitable, having sustained severe structural damage, including a second storey that is caving in. Both windscreens of his car are smashed from falling debris.

Mr Burns estimated 70 per cent of the property's guests have made their way to the airport, desperate to get off the island, but they are stuck there, with flights unable to cope with the mass exodus.

'The panic is quite severe. It's very hard to console the people,' he said, adding relief flights must be a priority.

Mr Burns is no stranger to natural disasters, having endured other earthquakes, cyclones and tsunami scares, but Sunday's magnitude-7 quake was the most terrifying of his life.

'We weren't sure we were going to make it out alive,' he said.

So far, at least 98 people have been confirmed dead from the quake, but a local official told Indonesian TV that 142 people had been killed.
His father was Osama Bin Laden, once the worlds most wanted man.

And now Hamza Bin Laden, his son and heir, has reputedly married the daughter of one of the 9/11 hijackers, to create what would be an extraordinary dynasty of terror.

Incredibly, he is reported to have wed the daughter of Mohamed Atta, the Egyptian-born terrorist who flew American Airlines Flight 11 into the World Trade Centre, one of four hijacked planes that hit targets in Washington and New York.

The disclosure was made by Bin Ladens family to Martin Chulov, the Guardians respected Middle East correspondent.

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Hamza bin Laden is pictured as an adult at his wedding. The son of Osama bin Laden is said to have married the daughter of a 9/11 suicide pilot

We have heard he [Hamza] has married the daughter of Mohamed Atta, Ahmad al-Attas, a half-brother of the dead terror leader, told Chulov. Were not sure where he is, but it could be in Afghanistan.

Hamzas new bride is, apparently, from Egypt, where Atta spent his youth and his 20s. Atta had studied engineering at university in Cairo, then moved to study in Hamburg, where he became ever-more radicalised in his support for extremist Islam.

Its thought that in the late Nineties he formed links with Al Qaeda, and headed to Afghanistan where he discussed the plan to strike America with Osama Bin Laden.

Hes believed to have set up a terrorist cell back in Hamburg that included two of the other 9/11 hijackers, and in June 2000 flew to New Jersey.

Father-of-the-bride Mohamed Atta was the Egyptian-born terrorist who flew American Airlines Flight 11 into the World Trade Centre. Atta had studied engineering in Cairo, then moved to study in Hamburg, where he became more radicalised in his support for extremist Islam

After that, he took flying lessons in Florida and eventually booked himself onto American Airlines Flight 11, with consequences that shook the world.

Although the jihadi was said to have little interest in sex  Chulov writes that some accounts of his adult life had portrayed him as an avowed virgin  his daughter is believed to have been born some time around 2001.

Chulov writes of Hamza Bin Laden: His marriage to the daughter of Atta . . . appears to confirm that the 9/11 alumni remain a central hub of Al Qaeda and the group continues to be organised around Osama Bin Ladens legacy.

The extraordinary report about the wedding emerged from an interview conducted by Chulov with Bin Ladens mother at the family home in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, which she shares with two of Osamas half-brothers and her second husband, who raised Osama from the age of three.

Osamas mother, Alia Ghanem, told Chulov that in the years after her son became a terrorist leader, my life was very difficult because he was so far away from me. He was a very good kid and he loved me so much.

She went on: He was a very good child until he met some people who pretty much brainwashed him in his early 20s. You can call it a cult. They got money for their cause.

I would always tell him to stay away from them, and he would never admit to me what he was doing, because he loved me so much.

She claimed it never crossed her mind that her son would become a jihadi. But now her grandson Hamza is following the same path, too.

Osama bin Laden's compound was raided in the early hours of May 2, 2011, by U.S. Navy Seals. He was found on the third floor, cowering and standing behind a woman with his hands on her shoulders

Hamza bin laden escaped from the U.S. raid and has been living on the run since. Experts now believe that he is hiding in Pakistan on the lawless border with Afghanistan

Hamza Bin Ladens marriage to the daughter of suicide pilot Mohamed Atta was discussed during the interview by her two sons, who were also present. Such a remarkable union is a story that will put Osama Bin Ladens most militant child under the spotlight once more.

Last year, Hamza was added to the U.S. Specially Designated Global Terrorist list after he was determined to have committed, or posed a serious risk of committing, acts of terrorism that threaten the security of U.S. nationals or the national security.

Like his father, Hamza has spent much of his life on the run. His father was killed  but Hamza miraculously escaped  when, in the early hours of May 2, 2011, U.S. Navy Seals arrived to take out the man who cost 3,000 lives on September 11, 2001.

In a shoot-to-kill operation sanctioned by President Barack Obama, the Navy Seals had flown through the night aboard Black Hawk helicopters to Bin Ladens compound in Abbottabad, an affluent town outside Islamabad, Pakistans capital.

President Barack Obama sanctioned a shoot-to-kill operation to find Osama Bin Laden. U.S. Seals shot the terrorist twice in the head and once in the body when they found him inside the compound

There, for six years, the worlds most wanted man had been living in a custom-built million-dollar house inside a walled compound with his three wives, as well as a number of his children and grandchildren, including Hamza.

Everything changed on the night the Bin Laden clan were roused by the sound of American helicopters.

With night vision goggles and lasers picking out targets, a U.S. Seal team overwhelmed armed fanatics guarding the compound, before entering Bin Ladens house and moving from room to room.

The building had been plunged into darkness moments before the raid, when CIA spies cut the power supplies. In the gloom, Khalid, another of Osamas sons, encountered the Seals on the staircase, and was shot dead.

While women and children were pushed to the ground, their hands tied with plastic binds, the Seals encountered Bin Laden in the third floor, and fired at him as he darted into a bedroom. He was found cowering inside, standing behind a woman with his hands on her shoulders.

Robert ONeill, a long-serving Navy Seal, shot Bin Laden twice in the head and once in the body as he fell to the ground. Another Seal fired more bullets into the body.

With adrenaline pumping, ONeill radioed his commanders: For God and country  Geronimo! Geronimo! Geronimo! and added: Geronimo! E.K.I.A (enemy killed in action).

A jubilant Obama, watching the unfolding drama from the White House, crowed: We got him.

Rumours swirled that not all went as planned  and that, incredibly, Bin Ladens favoured son and heir escaped under the noses of the U.S. special forces.

Hamza's father-in-law was believed to have set up a terrorist cell in Hamburg that included two of the other 9/11 hijackers and in June 2000 flew to New Jersey

That appears to be true. Known as the Crown Prince of Terror, Hamza Bin Laden was even pronounced dead by the White House in the aftermath of the raid  only for U.S. officials to later retract this and claim another son had died.

Certainly, Hamza today remains alive and well, having been groomed for a life of terror as a child at jihadi training camps.

Photogenic and charismatic, he is reportedly being used by Al Qaedas leadership to help revive the brand of the terror group after it was eclipsed by Islamic State.

Now reputedly 29, Hamza wears his fathers trademark turban and always carries a Kalashnikov, and as a true chip off the old block, he is calling for the blood of Westerners to be spilt.

In a chilling video message, signalling his bid to become a global player in terrorism, Hamza  who bears an uncanny resemblance to his late father  warned his enemies in the West that we will continue striking and targeting you in your country and abroad.

In what Arabic media described as a strategic step to prove he has taken up his fathers mantle, Hamza railed for 21 minutes against the West before calling on Muslims around the world to avenge his fathers death.

If you think your sinful crime that you committed in Abbottabad has passed without punishment, then you are wrong, he said in one video posted online.

As for the revenge by the Islamic nation for Sheik Osama, may Allah have mercy on him, it is not revenge for Osama the person, but it is revenge for those who defended Islam, Hamza added.

In other videos, he calls for lone wolf attacks  where Muslims living in Europe randomly murder infidel targets, a tactic horrifically demonstrated in France and Germany in recent years  telling his followers it is their duty to target Britain, America and other Western allies.

Now reputedly 29, Hamza wears his fathers trademark turban and he is calling for the blood of Westerners to be spilt. Pictured are policemen and firemen running from the huge dust cloud created from the towers collapse

Smoke from the World Trade Center after it was hit by two hijacjked passenger planes. One suicide pilot was Egyptian-born Mohamed Atta, whose daughter has married Hamza Bin Laden

So should we be worried by Bin Laden juniors attempts to foment bloodshed? Or is he just another crazed extremist best dismissed and ignored as he rants from an unknown location?

Sadly, whatever we may make of his comments, Hamza Bin Laden is establishing a following among young potential fighters around the world, having established his jihadist credentials before he was into his teens.

His father was a member of a hugely wealthy family in Saudi Arabia when Hamza was born in Jeddah, the capital, in 1989. At the time, the clan were pillars of Saudi society, making fortunes from the construction industry.

But his father spent much of the time in Afghanistan, fighting with other Islamic mujahideen against the Soviets, who eventually pulled out in the year of Hamzas birth.

With the Soviets defeated, Osama poured some of the family millions into setting up terror camps to fight America, their former backers in Afghanistan.

As a result, Osama and his family were expelled from Saudi Arabia in 1992 because of his links to terror groups and moved to Sudan, where Hamza spent his early childhood.

Hamza grew up in an environment of guns and terror plots. He was encouraged by his father, and was trained in how to use weapons before he was ten. Pictured a firefighter stands with the rubble of the World Trade Center towers

Under pressure from the U.S. after Bin Laden established terror training camps in the African desert in 1996, Sudan struck a deal to allow Bin Laden, his three wives and 26 children to leave for a country of their choice.

They headed again to Afghanistan, where Bin Laden declared war on America, and plotted the atrocities on New York and Washington.

So it was that Hamza grew up in an environment of guns and terror plots, and he took to it like a natural. He was encouraged by his father, and was trained in how to use weapons before he was ten.

His mother was the favourite among Osamas three wives. Called Khairiah Sabar, she was known as Umm Hamza, meaning mother of Hamza, her only boy, who also became Osamas favourite son.

By the age of 14, Hamza had already claimed his first kill of the enemy.

In a video called The Mujahideen Of Waziristan, released in 2005, Hamza and fellow Al Qaeda terrorists are seen in a fierce firefight with Pakistani government soldiers on the border with Afghanistan, with the camera showing a triumphant Hamza in camouflage gear clutching a gun among several dead enemy soldiers.

While two other of Bin Ladens sons died because of their terror activities, Hamza was reportedly wounded by bounty hunters chasing his father in the mountains of Afghanistan after 9/11.

He was also reported to have been killed during clashes in the Pakistani province of Balochistan in 2003, aged just 14, when he was fighting with another Bin Laden son, who was later killed in a drone strike. Yet reports of Hamzas death proved to false.

Another brother, Omar Bin Laden, who rejected terrorism and now lives in Egypt, remembers how Hamza read out a poem calling for jihad during a family wedding in Afghanistan. What crime have we committed to be forced to leave out country? said Hamza as his family cheered. We will fight the kaffir (infidels) for ever!

By the age of 16 he was linked to a plot to assassinate Benazir Bhutto, the former leader of Pakistan, who died in a hail of bullets and explosions during a campaign rally in 2007.

Shortly before her death, Bhutto, who was educated in Britain, named Hamza as one of four Al Qaeda terrorists planning to kill her because of her pro-Western outlook.

Ever since his father was killed in the raid on Abbottabad, Hamza has been on the run. Experts now believe that he, too, is hiding in Pakistan on the lawless border with Afghanistan, where Ayman Zawahiri, Bin Ladens successor as the leader of Al Qaeda, is grooming him to take over.

Bruce Riedel, director of the Intelligence Project at the Brookings Institution, a Washington think-tank, told me: Hamza is the future of Al Qaeda  the charismatic new face of the organisation with a unique claim to legitimacy by birth that resonates powerfully in the global jihad.

Al Qaeda is far from a spent force so Hamza is a serious problem. Terror attacks such as Nice [when a lorry attack killed more than 80 people in 2016], and others in France and Germany, is exactly what he had called for.

And now, it seems, he has at his side a bride raised in the knowledge that her own father was at the heart of the monstrous attack that killed thousands and sparked the War on Terror.

There could hardly be a more chilling prospect.
Shoppers face higher prices for fruit and veg because the heatwave has left crops cooking in the fields.

Vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, peas and onions have been dramatically affected by the soaring temperatures and lack of rain.

Total harvests are down, with produce smaller than normal and more likely to carry signs of heat damage.

Shoppers face paying more for their fruit and veg after intense heat and lack of rain has meant that crop harvests are down. File photo

As a result, growers have asked retailers to relax their rules on the size and shape of produce they will accept.

The supermarket price of broccoli, at 1.54, is up by 25.8 per cent a kilo compared with a year ago  after the high temperatures have simply stopped the plants growing, according to research published by The Grocer.

As temperatures soar to 34C (93.2F) in some parts of the country today, food suppliers warned of the effect of the heatwave in the fields.

Paul Murphy of Yes Chef, which supplies produce to restaurants, said: Broccoli is cooking in the fields.

Farmers cant get them out of the ground quick enough before the sun yellows them. Weve not experienced anything like this in decades.

The prices we expect to see over the next couple of weeks could be nothing compared with whats in store for autumn if the heat has done the damage growers think.

Vegetables such as broccoli, lettuce, carrots and onions have all suffered. Farmers say its the worst they've seen in decades and 'cant get them out of the ground quick enough' before the sun damages them. File photo

And Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, said: The hot, dry conditions we have seen  means the pressure on prices will continue for some time to come.

The price of a kilo bag of own-label carrots is some 8.3 per cent more than last year, at 65p on average, while a pack of three large onions is up 3.5 per cent to an average of 75p.

An iceberg lettuce is now 52p on average, which is up from 49p at this time last year. However, while sweltering temperatures are expected today, farmers may soon have some respite.

By this evening, thundery showers are set to hit the South-East, bringing lightning and up to an inch of rain in just two hours.

Meanwhile, cloudy and cooler conditions, including rain, are due in northern and western areas today.

The fresher weather will spread south and east as the weekend approaches. Warmer conditions are not due to return until at least the middle of next week.

However, the Met Office still predicts the UK could see warmer-than-average temperatures continuing into the autumn.

The outlook shows an increased chance of high-pressure systems, meaning settled conditions are more likely than unsettled for the next three months.
Teachers have long complained that busy work such as marking, lesson planning and preparing paperwork for Ofsted is getting in the way of teaching children.

Damian Hinds believes technology could help reduce this by providing lesson-sharing platforms, as well as help with data entry and assessment.

However, he also stressed that no technology could replace a teacher in the classroom, and should only ever be a tool to support good teaching.

The Education Secretary said he would love to see more pupils exploring rainforests or steering ships from their desks using virtual reality software.

Much of teachers admin work could also be reduced with computers, freeing them up to spend more time in the classroom, he said.

Education secretary Damian Hinds has called for schools to the technology to inspire children and cut teachers workloads. He would love to see more pupils exploring rainforests or steering ships from their desks using the virtual reality software

His comments come as the Government is debating how to regulate the darker sides of technology, such as social media and internet pornography.

Mr Hinds believes that while it is right to protect children from harm online, it should also be possible to harness technology for good.

He said: Ive been fortunate enough to see technology being used in revolutionary ways.

'Students are able to explore the rainforest, steer virtual ships or programme robots from their classroom, while teachers are able to access training, share best practice with colleagues and update parents on a pupils progress without being taken away from their main focus  teaching.

Mr Hinds added much of teachers admin work could also be reduced with computers, freeing them up to spend more time in the classroom

He said that while it is right to protect children from harm online, it should also be possible to harness technology for good. His comments come as the Government is debating how to regulate the darker sides of technology, such as social media and internet pornography

He is now challenging tech firms, including those in the UK as well as US industry giants Apple and Microsoft, to work with schools to improve life in the classroom for both teachers and pupils.

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, said: Used well, technology can have a positive effect on pupils learning. It can help inspire, engage and broaden childrens horizons.

However, there is little evidence to suggest that it offers some sort of educational panacea. When people recall their own school days they remember teachers, not computers.
A photo posted to a popular website shows the terrifying moment a massive huntsman spider landed on a Sydney homeowner's window with a massive thud.

The giant bug, which the owner estimates is the size of his palm, startled the resident and his cat last night when it slammed against the window.

The huntsman, which is renowned for its speed and abnormally large size, then made itself comfortable as it sat on the lounge window 'for a couple of hours' as the owner watched TV at his home near Marrickville in the city's inner west.

The palm-sized huntsman spider gave a homeowner from Sydney's inner west an almighty fright when it thudded against his lounge window

The scary sighting was posted by Pomohomo82 on Reddit, who said that despite being given an almighty fright by the huntsman he doesn't plan on making it vacate the premises.

'I'm not planning to get rid of it. We've got a yard with some trees and he can live out there happily eating all the other bugs,' he said.

The Reddit user even wryly remarked that Sydney's wildlife was the least of his problems, with the city's traffic problems weighing just as heavily on his mind.

In similarly terrifying fashion, a Queensland resident was given the fright of their life while they were cooking dinner when a huntsman spider clambered onto their window last year

This chilling snap of a giant huntsman spider was taken when it crawled onto a broom handle, also in Queensland, in 2016

The chilling shot of the arachnid pinned against the Reddit user's window is similar to other images of huntsman spiders - with a chilling snapshot of a spider crawling over a broom handle in Queensland in 2016 giving it a run for its money.

Last year, another Queensland resident posted a terrifying video of a huntsman spider pinned against their window while they were trying to cook their dinner.

The huntsman spiders are notorious in Australia for crawling out of car dashboards.

In 2016, a NSW man crashed his car into Lake Cathie after one of the huge critters fell on his lap and caused him to slam on the accelerator.
A terminally ill father could finally be on his way home after illness left him stranded in Bali at the end of a dream 'bucket list' holiday with his family.

More than $25,000 has been raised to get Duncan Turner on a flight back to Perth after he hurt his knee in Singapore due to the ongoing effects of a serious brain injury.

His pre-existing condition meant he couldn't qualify for travel insurance, but the family decided it would be worth the risk to fulfill their daughter's wish to swim with dolphins.

$25,000 has been raised to get Duncan Turner (pictured with daughter) on a flight back to Perth after he hurt his knee in Singapore due to the ongoing effects of a serious brain injury

His condition meant he couldn't qualify for travel insurance, but the family decided it would be worth the risk to fulfill their daughter's wish to swim with dolphins (pictured at Bali hospital)

Mr Turner was rendered wheelchair-bound after suffering a fall, but it was when he was about to board his final flight home from a stopover that he took a frightening turn.

He lost consciousness and required oxygen and an ambulance to get to hospital, where quickly his medical bills surpassed what the family could afford to pay.

After three days in hospital at a cost of $2,470 a day and additional emergency costs of $1,300, the family were unable to continue keeping up with the bills.

Against medical advice, Mr Turner discharged himself from hospital and checked into a Bali hotel to wait until he would be well enough to fly home.

Mr Turner (pictured with wife, Michelle) was rendered wheelchair bound after having a fall, but it was when he was about to board his final flight home when he took a frightening turn

Mr Turner's medical bills quickly surpassed what the family could afford to pay (Amelie, 6, Michelle, and Mr Turner pictured with a dolphin in Singapore)

His daughter, Amelie, took a flight home with her grandmother and returned to school while her parents waited out Mr Turner's recovery in Bali.

Medical bills exceeded ten thousand dollars and it was likely Mr Turner would require additional treatment or readmission to hospital.

In a desperate plea to help the family and have Mr Turner brought back to Australia for treatment, a Go Fund Me account was created.

Nearly 400 people rallied together in just three days to raise more than $25,000.

On Tuesday morning, it was revealed the amount was enough to have Mr Turner return to Perth on a MedEvac flight.

His daughter, Amelie pictured with dolphin), took a flight home with her grandmother and returned to school while her parents waited out Mr Turner's recovery in Bali

He could be on a flight home within the next 24 hours providing he attains necessary medical clearance and is deemed well enough to make the journey.

Mr Turner's wife, Michelle Edgar, said she couldn't 'be more grateful' for the financial support of the public.

'It's very overwhelming, very emotional, but in the absolutely most positive way possible,' she told Nine News.

'It's just so heart-warming. These are happy tears, not sad tears this time.'

Mr Turner (injured knee pictured) could be on a flight home within the next 24 hours providing he attains necessary medical clearance and is deemed well enough to make the journey

Mr Turner's wife, Michelle Edgar, said she couldn't 'be more grateful' for the financial support of the public (Mr Turner pictured in Bali hospital)

Mr Turner suffered a serious head injury from a fall last year, leaving him paralysed and facing months of repeated strokes and seizures learning to walk and talk again.

His daughter Amelie, who was born premature at just 27 weeks and weighing 606 grams, is still extremely small for her age and was not tall enough to qualify for most Australian dolphin swimming experiences.

Mr Turner's pre-existing health conditions meant he didn't qualify for travel insurance but the couple thought the risk of travelling for five days in Singapore without it would be worth the life-time of memories created.
An Aboriginal activist who called for Australia to be 'burnt to the ground' has denied her new tattoo is a nod to a crude anti-police slogan.

'Invasion Day' protest organiser Tarneen Onus-Williams posted a photo to her Instagram account on Monday showing off an 'ACAB' tattoo on the back of her thigh.

The letters are often used as an acronym for 'all cops are b******s'.

An Aboriginal activist who called for Australia to be 'burnt to the ground' has denied her new tattoo is a nod to a crude anti-police slogan meaning 'all cops are b******s'

When approached for comment on Tuesday, Ms Onus-Williams (pictured with her black cat) said the letters stand for 'all cats are beautiful'

When approached for comment on Tuesday, Ms Onus-Williams said the letters stood for 'all cats are beautiful'.

However she said she understands that the tattoo could be 'easily mistaken'.

'Even if it was about the cops, the cops have never been held to account for 300 plus black deaths in custody in Australia. No police officer or prison guards have been convicted for their deaths,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

While denying her new tattoo was an anti-police slogan, she said her Aboriginal community had long suffered at the hands of law enforcement.

'There has been no justice for deaths of Aboriginal people at the hands of violent police and prison guards,' she said.

'My community still lives in terror from police violence and the prisons.

'I'm a huge cat fan, but also understand it's easily mistaken.'

When Ms Onus-Williams posted a photo the tattoo on Instagram this week, it prompted a slew of supportive comments from her followers including 'f*** yes' and 'too right'.

Ms Onus-Williams led a crowd of thousands in Melbourne in January where she campaigned against Australia Day

Ms Onus-Williams called for Australia Day to be abolished and said 'f*** Australia, f*** Australia, I hope it f***ing burns to the ground' (pictured at the Australia Day protest in Melbourne this year)

The 24-year-old activist, who has worked for several state-funded programs, has previously courted controversy for yelling offensive slogans at Australia Day protests.

Ms Onus-Williams led a crowd of thousands in Melbourne in January where she shouted 'we have not organised this to change the date, we have organised this to abolish Australia Day because f*** Australia, f*** Australia, I hope it f***ing burns to the ground'.

The Aboriginal activist refused to apologise for the comment which she claimed was a metaphor and 'not actually a statement to be taken literally'.

The Aboriginal activist refused to apologise for the comment which she claimed was a metaphor and 'not actually a statement to be taken literally'

Ms Onus-Williams, who has served on the Koorie Youth Council and Aboriginal Interim Treaty Working Group, has previously been questioned for her apparent disrespect for the Australian government and its police force.

Former Australian Labor Party president Warren Mundine, who is an Aboriginal leader, called Ms Onus-Williams a hypocrite for attacking the government while working for several state-funded programs.

'The serious question here is why is the government funding these groups and these organisations when the people involved are haters who have no scruples about taking taxpayers' money and then spitting in their faces,' Mr Mundine told The Australian.

'And governments only have themselves to blame for wasting taxpayers' money, because there's no real rigour in appointments and no questions about where this money is going. And then you see money going into causes and demonstrations where people are racially abusing and threatening people  it has to change.'

Ms Onus-Williams is pictured wearing a shirt that reads, 'no prisons, no slaves, no masters'

Ms Onus-Williams courted controversy when she called for Australia to be 'burnt' when she spoke at an 'Invasion Day' protest (pictured) in Melbourne in January

Former Victorian premier Jeff Kennett told The Australian the 24-year-old should step down from her role with Koorie after her comments.

The Koorie Youth Council previously told the publication it didn't support Ms Onus-Williams' comments, who the organisation said had been a volunteer since November 2016.

The Koorie Youth Council did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday, but Ms Onus-Williams said she no longer worked on the board.

The Victorian Government told Daily Mail Australia Ms Onus-Williams was no longer serving on the government funded Aboriginal Interim Treaty Working Group.

Ms Onus-Williams has previously posed with Married at First Sight star Telverne (Telv) Williams

Ms Onus-Williams has previously posed with Married at First Sight star Telverne (Telv) Williams, calling him her brother.

The 24-year-old spoke about Telverne in a post on her blog 'Dat Blak One'.

In the post, Ms Onus-Williams said he helped raise her, and taught her how to 'throw her middle finger up' from a young age.
The reward for the safe return of missing University of Iowa student Mollie Tibbetts has ballooned to $260,000 as the desperate search continues.

Crime Stoppers of Central Iowa said Sunday that relatives of the 20-year-old believe she's alive but has potentially been kidnapped.

They have received donations from across the country and hope the funds will lead to more information about her mysterious disappearance.

Her family are convinced she is still alive, two weeks after she vanished in the small town of Brooklyn.

Mollie's father told Fox News that he believes that his daughter may be with someone she's familiar with.

'It's totally speculation on my part, but I think Mollie is with someone that she knows, that is in over their head,' Rob Tibbetts said.

'My two cents is that no one went into that house to hurt her,' he added.

Rob Tibbetts (R) believes that his daughter Mollie (L) is still still alive and may be with someone she knows. Mollie Tibbets was reported missing on July 18

'That there was some kind of misunderstanding about the nature of their relationship and at this point they don't know how to get out from under this.'

'The longer we go without finding Mollie's body,' he continued, 'the more hopeful we are that she's alive somewhere and going through something that she can survive.'

Tibbets is urging anyone with information to come forward or for anyone who may be with his daughter to 'just simply call the authorities and put an end to this.'

Laura Calderwood (pictured), Mollie's mother, said the family has raised the reward money for her safe return to $260,000 on Monday

'Let Mollie come home and hold yourself accountable for what you've done so far, but don't escalate this to a point where you can't recover yourself,' he added.

Mollie went missing on July 18 from her small hometown of Brooklyn, Iowa.

Investigators are being tight-lipped about the case, saying holding back basic details may help solve it.

That includes saying whether they believe Tibbetts returned home from a jog the evening she went missing.

They won't say what they think happened to her or expand on the theories they are working.

In the past two weeks investigators have completed 200 interviews, fielded hundreds of tips and carried out painstaking fingertip searches

In the past two weeks investigators have completed 200 interviews, fielded hundreds of tips and carried out painstaking fingertip searches of the vast cornfields surrounding the close-knit farming community, an hour east of De Moines.

But without a single credible lead pointing to her whereabouts, the missing college student's family says they feel like they're languishing in 'purgatory.'

'I'm either going to be headed up to heaven or down to hell, depending on the result,' Tibbett's mother, Laura Calderwood, told DailyMail.com

Psychology major Mollie was dog-sitting at the home of her construction worker boyfriend Dalton Jack, 20, when she set off for her evening run around 7.30pm.

He says his last contact with his girlfriend of three years was a Snapchat message he opened at around 10pm.

Investigators are so far refusing to say whether or not Mollie made it home from her jog, with conflicting evidence suggesting she may have gone missing later that night or even the next morning.

When she failed to show up her at her summer job at a daycare center on July 19, friends and family raised the alarm.

Investigators say they have ruled boyfriend Dalton Jack (L) out as a suspect and Laura Calderwood insists he's above suspicion.

And despite nationwide media coverage there have been no arrests nor confirmed sightings to date.

'Every time I try and form an opinion there is a piece there that doesn't fit into the puzzle,' a confounded Laura told DailyMail.com.

Investigators say they have ruled Jack out as a suspect and Laura Calderwood insists he's above suspicion.

'He's a good guy. They were devoted to one another,' she told DailyMail.com.

Wayne Cheney (pictured), a man with stalking convictions in 2009 and 2014, was interviewed by a FBI agent at his Deep River Home for five to 10 minutes on Friday but has not been named as a suspect

With family and friends in the clear, investigators looked at registered sex offenders and convicted criminals living locally.

Wayne Cheney, a man with stalking convictions in 2009 and 2014, lives in a trailer home about 500 yards from a pig farm that was searched by investigators eight days ago.

The 56-year-old told DailyMail.com he sold the facility to Prestage Farms five or six years ago.

He said he had never met Mollie or her family.

When asked about his previous arrests, he said: 'I was arrested in 2011 for breaching a restraining order. It was an ex girlfriend. That was the only time.'

Police in Dubuque meanwhile quizzed a suspect in an assault on a female jogger on Sunday while another man was questioned in Pella, an hour from Brooklyn, after he was spotted taking covert photos of girls.

However, neither individual has been linked to the hunt for Mollie and cops say they are yet to identify a suspect.

Authorities have also said a reported sighting of Mollie at a truck stop in the Kansas City, Missouri area late last month, was not her.

Willey says Crime Stoppers will protect the anonymity of tipsters who call in or submit tips online .

He says the organization has shared more than 200 anonymous tips with law enforcement since Monday.
One in 12 police officers have a second job to make ends meet, a poll has found.

The survey of more than 27,000 members of the Police Federation revealed that 7.8 per cent had additional work  up from 6.3 per cent last year.

Officers can take on additional employment  such as taxi driving  outside their working hours if their force approves.

One in 12 police officers have a second job to make ends meet, according to a Police Federation survey of 27,000 members (stock image)

The federation, which represents ranks from constable to chief inspector in England and Wales, also found that 44.8 per cent worried about money almost daily.

It also found that 3.8 per cent had taken out a payday loan over the past year.

John Apter, chair of the PFEW, said the results 'make grim reading'.

He said: 'Our members are clearly suffering from even worse financial pressures than last year, with some appearing to be in dire straits.

'Our members are under immense pressure to deliver, with dwindling resources and rising crime, particularly violent crime, leading to a demand for our services that has never been higher.

'All they want is to be adequately paid for the job that they do.

'We know officers are struggling and some have had to resort to food vouchers and other welfare schemes.

'This clearly cannot be right or acceptable that those employed to keep the public safe cannot make ends meet or put food on tables for their families.'

Last month, the Government announced police officers will be awarded a pay rise of 2% in 2018 to 2019 - but the PFEW labelled the increase 'derisory'.

Shadow home secretary Diane Abbott accused the Conservatives of being 'in total denial about the misery that their cuts to public services have caused'.

Officers can take a second job, such as taxi driving, if their force approves it. Of the officers polled 7.8 per cent said they had a additional work (stock image)

She added: 'Police officers are already being asked to do more with less, resulting in overwork and stress.'

A Home Office spokeswoman said: 'We are grateful to all police officers for the incredible job they do - and will continue to ensure they have the resources they need to do their jobs effectively.

'The police pay award for 2018/19 represents the highest consolidated pay award since 2010. And the number of people joining police forces is at a 10-year high which demonstrates policing is still a desirable and sought-after career.'

National Police Chiefs' Council lead for pay and conditions Francis Habgood said: 'In the past few years, we have seen increasing demand on policing with rising overall recorded crime levels, more complex crimes being committed, a growing terrorist threat and, more than ever, the police being called as a last resort when other agencies lack their own capacity.

'We know that hard working police officers are feeling the strain. Limited pay increases in recent years mean that some officers struggle to keep their heads above water financially.

'Police forces actively encourage officers to seek support if they run into financial difficulties and these arrangements are being strengthened.'
Flowers have today been left at the spot where Samantha Eastwood was found murdered as her sister thanked the hundreds of people who have donated more than 10,000 towards her funeral.

The bouquets and cards pay to tribute to the 'beautiful soul' whose body was discovered at a disused salt quarry near Stoke-on-Trent on Saturday - eight days after she vanished after a night shift.

One card left on a secluded track said: 'Our beautiful Sam, inside and out. A lovely, happy, funny young lady taken far too soon. Why???' and another note said: 'Night night Sambo. You are now safe. Rest in peace'.

Today mourners, NHS colleagues and mothers whose babies were delivered by the 28-year-old midwife pledged more than 10,000 saying she deserved a wonderful send-off because she 'helped bring so many lives into the world'.

Gemma Eastwood, 26, shared a link to the GoFundMe page set up by her older sister's colleague Beth Taylor.

She also shared a treasured picture showing the two siblings grinning together as they jetted off on holiday recently.

She said: 'Cant express how thankful me and my mum are for this. Me and my mum really appreciate every single one of you that has donated'.

Gemma Eastwood (right) today posted this new picture of her with her murdered sister Samantha (left) as more than 10,000 was raised towards her funeral

Flower lay where Samantha was found murdered at a disused quarry in remote woodland in Caverswall, near Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire

The notes expressed love and grief for the 'beautiful soul' lost after Samantha's tragic death on Saturday

Gemma shared a link to the fundraising page and thanked 'every single' person who has donated

As suspected killer Michael Stirling appeared in court in handcuffs yesterday police said they still had not established a cause of death.

A spokesman said: 'A post mortem has been carried out however further tests are required to establish cause of death. The results of these tests will be reported as soon as possible'.

Today her supporters rallied around her family and friends as they launched an online plea for donations.

A GoFundMe page set up by a friend of murdered midwife Samantha Eastwood has raised more than 9,000

One mother whose child was delivered by Samantha said she deserved a wonderful funeral because she 'helped bring so many lives into the world'.

The midwife's heartbroken sister care worker Gemma Eastwood shared the post and wrote: 'This has been set up so we can give my sister the send off she deserves.'

Among hundreds of people pledging cash to the devastated family is one of her patients Sue George who paid tribute to her in a heartfelt post, saying: 'So sorry for your loss. Your daughter was truly amazing and helped me and my little one through the hardest time.

'Only a few weeks ago Sam cradled my little fella and expressed just how special he was but little did she know she was the special one, a true inspiration and loved by many. Our thoughts are with your family, friends and Sam's colleagues. Fly high beautiful.'

Colleagues of Samantha's wipe away tears as they read notes left with flowers outside the University Hospital of North Staffordshire in Stoke-On-Trent yesterday

NHS staff are among the hundreds who have donated towards Samantha's funeral costs

Well-wishers have raised the entire 10,000 pledged to give the midwife a wonderful send off

A message on the website page, seen around the globe and responded to with generous donations by hundreds, reads: 'Samantha was a lovely young woman who helped to bring so many lives into this world. She had a bright future ahead of her and sadly this was taken away far too soon. Samantha story has been followed by midwives and NHS workers worldwide.

'They have been touched by the kinds words from mothers Samantha had cared for and colleagues who have worked alongside her. Samantha has been described as a warm, gentle, kind woman and will be remembered for her amazing efforts as a midwife and will be truly missed by many.

'Samantha's extended NHS family would like to support her mother Carole, and sister Gemma in their time of grief by contributing to Samantha's funeral costs and to ensure one of our shining stars has the send off she deserves.'

Michael Stirling (left) has been charged while Stephen Stirling (right) has been bailed

Tributes have poured in for Samantha, who was described as a lovely lady as well as a skilled and compassionate midwife

The overwhelming support for Miss Eastwood, 28, comes after her saddened ex-fiancee John Peake visited the home they once shared to lay flowers in tribute. They split up in January and called off their wedding, which had been due to be held two months ago.

His public gesture followed the first court appearance of his brother-in-law - his sister Katie's husband fencing contractor Stirling, 32, in the dock on a murder charge.

He was accused of the crime which carries a life sentence on guilt or conviction on Sunday night - 36 hours after the midwife's body was found dumped in the quarry in remote woodland in Caverswall, near Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire.

Grim-faced Stirling, handcuffed as he was flanked by two guards in the dock, spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth. He did not enter a plea.

Bungling prosecutors and court officials slipped up by getting the dates of his offence wrong on the charge sheet.

A charge read out to Stirling at North Staffordshire Magistrates' Court in Newcastle accused him of murdering Ms Eastwood between July 26 (Thurs) and August 05 (Sunday).

'Happy and bubbly' Ms Eastwood vanished after leaving the Royal Stoke Hospital after a night shift, having complained to a colleague she was being threatened.

Samantha was allegedly murdered by Stirling, who is the brother-in law of her ex-fiance John Peake (together left) and married to Mr Peake's sister Katie Stirling (together right)

The midwife's body was found dumped at this disused salt quarry in Caverswall near Stoke-on-Trent on Saturday - eight days after she vanished

A Staffordshire Police spokesperson admitted 'the court sheet had the wrong dates.'

The midwife was last seen alive leaving work at 7.45am on Friday last week, July 27. Her body was discovered eight days later on Saturday August 04 - showing the charge sheet had two wrong dates.

Her body was found in a quarry, which contains no water, in remote woodland in Caverswall a day after her younger sister Gemma Eastwood, 26, had made an emotional public appeal begging her to come home.

After the grim discovery the midwife's heartbroken family publically thanked supporters who 'tried their best to help.'

A post mortem to discover the cause of death has been carried out but further tests are needed.
A punter has been left feeling 'sick to the stomach' after believing he had won a lucrative bet on four horse races - only to find that he'd been robbed by a typo.

Phillip Omerovic, 57, thought he had netted tens of thousands of dollars in winnings after placing a quadrella bet for Geelong's Monday race day.

A quadrella is when a punter bets on which horses will win the four nominated races and Mr Omerovic had placed bets on races five, six, seven and eight.

The resident of Reservoir in Melbourne's northern suburbs selected his horses based on the TAB form guide inside the Herald Sun newspaper, and made the bet via phone.

A Victorian punter has been left feeling 'sick to the stomach' after believing he had won a lucrative bet through the TAB only to find that a typo cost him a huge windfall

When all four of his bets won, Mr Omerovic thought he had hit the jackpot.

'I'm a disability pensioner, it was going to make a big difference, I was going to buy some new shoes, then I realised there was nothing in my account,' he told 9 News.

Mr Omerovic was left questioning why he'd been denied his win, and then the reality of the situation became clear - the Herald Sun had misprinted the quadrella races in its form guide.

Instead of races five, six, seven and eight, the quadrella was actually paying out for races seven, eight, nine and 10, meaning that Mr Omerovic, while picking four winners from four, did not place the bets on the correct races.

Instead of races five, six, seven and eight, the quadrella was actually paying out for races seven, eight, nine and 10

A quadrella on average pays odds of about 3000-to-1 and the correct quadrella at Geelong on Monday paid out a staggering $33,676.30.

'I feel sick. I'm livid,' Mr Omerovic said. 'They've taken thousands off me, I thought it was my turn to win.'

A disclaimer in the Herald Sun states that the publication does not accept any responsibility for errors.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted TAB for comment and is awaiting a response.

According to tab.com.au a customer may have their bet cancelled and their outlay returned if 'their bet is incorrect according to the details given to the customer when the bet was made'.

If TAB accepts the bet was placed on a false pretense then a 'refund on the bet is possible'.
The judge presiding over the Paul Manafort trial in Virginia got into a 10-minute argument with prosecutors after the jury was dismissed.

The spat between U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III and prosecutor Greg Andres centered on why the government was proceeding slowly with one of its star witnesses, Rick Gates.

Ellis accused the prosecution of trying to smear Manafort by bringing up his connection with wealthy Ukrainian political figures, according to Fox News.

What matters are the allegations that he made money from them and didnt report it, Ellis said.

U.S. District Court Judge T.S. Ellis III (seen above in a court sketch), who is presiding over the Paul Manafort trial in Virginia, got into a 10-minute argument with prosecutors after the jury was dismissed

Ellis accused the prosecution of trying to smear Manafort by bringing up his connection with wealthy Ukrainian political figures. Manafort is seen in the artist rendition above

Ellis also demanded to know why prosecutors were proceeding slowly with one of its star witnesses, Rick Gates, Manafort's former deputy

You don't need to throw mud at these people.

The judge continued: I dont know if they are bad or good. And I dont care.

Ellis said that the Ukrainians being mentioned as linked to Manafort could be compared to wealthy Americans like Mr. [Charles and David] Koch and Mr. [George] Soros.

Andres shot back, saying: I dont know why you keep bringing [up] these [Ukrainians].

These people are not like any Americans, the prosecutor told Ellis.

These people are oligarchs and that means they control a segment of the economy based on the governments allowing them to do that.

Andres said: These are not really political contributions.

They are self-serving payments with respect to what oligarchs do.

That makes it even clearer to me that it doesnt have anything to do with the allegations in this case, Ellis said in response.

It throws dirt on these people. They may deserve it. I dont know - and I dont care.

Andres and Ellis also clashed on a legal technicality.

Respectively, judge, that is not what the law is, Andres told Ellis.

Later in the argument, Ellis was irritated because he thought Andres was not looking at him while he was speaking.

Look at me! Dont look down, the judge scolded Andres, who replied that he was reading a relevant document.

You looked down as if to say thats B.S.! Ellis said. Im up here!

Gates, the prosecution's star witness in the trial of President Donald Trump's former campaign chief Manafort, testified Monday that he conspired with his ex-boss to hide millions of dollars in foreign bank accounts from US tax authorities.

In riveting testimony before a packed courtroom, the 46-year-old also admitted to stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort during the decade the pair worked together as political consultants.

Gates, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy in February and is cooperating with the government in exchange for a more lenient prison sentence, took the stand on the fifth day of Manafort's trial on tax and bank fraud charges in Alexandria, Virginia.

Stare: Paul Manafort (second from left) stared directly at his former deputy Rick Gates (right) as he gave evidence to the jury. Judge T. S. Ellis III, who had been a vocal critic of the prosecution, said little as prosecutors including Greg Andres questioned Gates

Wearing a dark blue suit and a gold tie, Gates addressed his attention to prosecutors and the judge and studiously avoided the gaze of his longtime business partner Manafort at the defense table.

Manafort, 69, is the first defendant to go to court to fight charges stemming from Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

But the veteran Republican operative is not on trial for anything he did while serving for three months as the chairman of Trump's presidential campaign.

Instead, Manafort is answering to alleged crimes related to money he made proving political consulting services to the former Russian-backed government of Ukraine.

Prosecutors accuse Manafort of failing to report income from his work in Ukraine to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and Gates testified that he was a willing participant in the scheme.

Gates replied 'yes' when asked by Andres if he had engaged in criminal activities with Manafort, who he described as a 'brilliant' political strategist.

He said he had assisted Manafort in filing false tax returns and hiding the existence of 15 foreign bank accounts, mostly in Cyprus.

Turncoat: Rick Gates was Paul Manafort's long-term deputy, including during Manafort's four-month stint as Trump campaign chair, but is now to give evidence for Robert Mueller's prosecution of his old boss

Prosecutor: Assistant U.S. Attorney Uzo Asonye (standing) - who is seconded to the Robert Mueller special counsel investigation - questioned Gates. He was seen at the trial last week addressing jurors

Evidence: Cynthia Laporta's testimony raised the stakes for Manafort, legal experts said. Testifying under immunity, she was the first witness to admit she knew accounting maneuvers Manafort and Gates requested of her were wrong and could be crimes

'At Mr Manafort's request, we did not report the foreign bank accounts,' Gates said.

He said the amounts in question were 'several million dollars' over the years the pair spent working for political campaigns in Ukraine.

Gates also acknowledged stealing 'hundreds of thousands' of dollars from Manafort by filing bogus expense reports.

Manafort, who helped Republicans Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan reach the White House, was Trump's campaign chairman from May to August 2016, when he was forced to step down amid questions about his lobbying work for Ukraine's former pro-Russian leader Viktor Yanukovych.

Gates, who worked for Manafort from 2006 to 2016 and was also a member of Trump's presidential election campaign team, is scheduled to take the witness stand again on Tuesday.

Defense attorneys attempted to chip away at his credibility, accusing him of embezzling 'millions of dollars' from his former boss and making false statements to Manafort's accountant.

Mueller, a former FBI director, has indicted more than 30 people - including 26 Russians - in connection with his probe into whether members of Trump's campaign colluded with Russia to help get the real estate tycoon elected.

Trump has denounced the probe as a politically motivated 'witch hunt' and denied there was any collusion with Moscow to defeat Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton.

While Gates and others have pleaded guilty, Manafort has refused to strike a deal and has insisted on having his day in court.

Legal experts say Manafort may be holding out hopes of a pardon from Trump.

Manafort is scheduled to go on trial in September on separate charges brought by Mueller of conspiracy, money laundering and failing to register as an agent of a foreign government.
A new report from Gumtree has revealed that 89 per cent of Australians have unwanted items in their homes, which could net savvy sellers up to $4200.

The online marketplace's Second-Hand Economy report surveyed 1000 Australians, also revealing that one in every two Australians just throw their unwanted items in the bin.

There are more than 3 million listings on Gumtree, but Australians are still missing an opportunity to capitalise, according to the report.

A report from Gumtree (pictured) has revealed that Australians are leaving $4200 lying around in their homes in the form of unwanted items they'd rather throw out than re-sell

Furniture and cabinets are among the most commonly sold items on Gumtree, with replaced doors selling for as much as $750

Over 56 per cent of Australians sold something online in the past year, contributing to the $34billion economy of second-hand items changing hands.

It's taken a slide since 2017, however, when the market was worth $43.5billion.

Gumtree Australia's general manager Martin Herbst said that the second-hand economy was good for the environment.

MOST COMMONLY SOLD ITEMS The most commonly sold second-hand items include: Furniture Clothing Shoes and accessories Books Music, DVDs and CDs Games and toys Electronics Advertisement

'The second hand economy is a multi-billion dollar sub-economy which brings communities together, contributes to Aussie back pockets, supports not-for-profits and reduces waste from going to landfill,' he said.

'Our report lifts the lid on the increasing opportunity for Australians to make extra cash, extend the life of their unwanted items, and make a significant environmental impact along the way.'

He went on to say that Gumtree had teamed up with sustainability organisations to deliver the report.

Families have taken advantage of the second-hand economy to fully furnish their houses, the news.com.au reports.

Sydney couple Tracey OMalley and Thomas Zwanink managed to save $40,000 on their refurbishment by buying second-hand off of Gumtree.

Their biggest bargain came from a free spa in Newcastle, which only required them to pick it up.

Cabinets and drawers can sell for as much as $200, but are commonly seen in rubbish

Outdoor equipment like old tents and sporting equipment that's served their purposes can sell for more than $150 instead of being thrown out
A Cosplay fan is facing jail for making replica guns with a 3D printer and advertising them online, but he insists he only made the weapons so he could dress up as his favourite fantasy character.

Sicen Sun was arrested in 2017 after he advertised one of his imitation weapons for sale for $1 million  negotiable  on a Facebook buy, swap and sell group.

The 28-year-old from Sydney pleaded guilty to charges including possessing a digital blueprint for the manufacture of firearms, manufacturing a pistol without a licence permit, and possessing an unauthorised pistol.

Sicen Sun was arrested in 2017 after he advertised one of his imitation weapons for sale for $1 million

Pictured are some of the replica guns Sicen Sun printed with a 3D printer back in 2017

Appearing in the NSW District Court on Monday, he said he didn't 'realise how silly, idiotic and naive' his actions were.

I could not even begin to contemplate that a hobby would land me in such strife,' he told the court.

He insisted the replicas, which included a P90 sub-machine gun seen in Stargate and a MA5C rifle from the video game Halo, were to be used as props for when he dressed up.

Sun admitted to wondering about the legalities about his actions but rationalised his thoughts as 'never wanting to fabricate or manufacture a real firearm in the sense it was able to project a projectile'.

However, crown prosecutor Stephen Makin put it to him that he wasnt just doing it for love.

Sun agreed that he'd previously offered other items for sale in the same Facebook group and it was 'perhaps' unrealistic to assume potential buyers he spoke with had good intentions.

He said he didn't keep the replica firearms in a safe but lived in a security building and didnt consider that they could be stolen.

Sun is the first person in NSW charged with possessing blueprints to manufacture firearms

Sun, who is the first person in NSW charged with possessing blueprints to manufacture firearms, said he has created a pamphlet and other material to educate others of the legalities of 3D printing props.

'If someone had done it for me, if someone had just told me the full extent of the offending behaviour that I was committing by printing these things, I wouldn't have done it,' he said.

Judge Penelope Wass on Monday reserved her sentencing decision so she could further consider the objective seriousness of Sun's offences.

The case is next due in court on August 21.

Judge Penelope Wass on Monday reserved her sentencing decision so she could further consider the objective seriousness of Suns (middle) offences




A Texas A&M senior featured an unusual guest in her graduation photos: a 1,000 pound alligator.

Hilarious photographs show 21-year-old Makenzie Alexis Noland dressed up in her graduation garb alongside a 13'8' Texas alligator named Big Tex.

When asked why she decided to include the massive critter in her grad photos, the soon-to-be alum told KTXS: 'He's one of my best friend's here.'

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Texas A&M senior Makenzie Alexis Noland invited an unusual guest star to appear in her graduation photos: a 1,000lb alligator named Big Tex

The 21-year-old met the critter last year while interning at Gator Country, an alligator adventure park in Beaumont, Texas. She said: 'He's one of my best friend's here'

Noland met Big Tex in May of last year during her internship at Gator Country, an alligator adventure park in Beaumont.

'It took him a few weeks for him to like me,' she said as she described the budding friendship.

With time the two got more comfortable with each other, and eventually they formed an unusually strong bond.

'It's just like how your dog would treat you if you treat him well,' Noland told The Witchita Eagle, adding that she likes to tickle his nose and give him kisses.

Big Tex balances Noland's graduation ring on his nose in one of the ponds at Gator Country

Noland described her relationship with Big Tex as similar to one between a dog and its owner

The friendship is particularly unlikely given that Big Tex currently holds the national record for the 'largest live-captured nuisance alligator', according to the park.

The gator was caught at Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge in 2016 and was brought to Gator Country because he had become 'a little too friendly'.

A Facebook post from the refuge claims that Big Tex had 'lost his fear of humans' because visitors were feeding him.

The reptile appears to be happy with his set up at the new park, especially in the photos with Noland.

They were taken by Noland's boss Arlie Hammond, who keeps a close eye on the pair when they interact.

Noland said she is almost as proud of the photos as she is to be graduating with a degree in wildlife ecology on Friday.

She said she hopes to land a job at the Dallas Zoo, but will be sure to come back to visit Big Tex.
A Georgia preschool assistant has been accused of shooting dead her high school sweetheart in their home.

Mary Katherine Higdon, 24, was charged with murder after her 23-year-old boyfriend Steven Freeman was shot at their Griffin home last Wednesday.

Police were called to the couple's home at about 10.42pm on August 1 where they found Freeman with a single gunshot wound to his chest.

He was rushed to the nearby Spalding Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Mary Katherine Higdon, 24, was charged with murder after her boyfriend Steven Freeman, 23, was shot at their home in Griffin, Georgia last Wednesday

Higdon allegedly told investigators that the shooting was an accident.

She said the gun discharged when she handed the gun to her boyfriend in a back room in their home.

Higdon, a preschool assistant, was charged with murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime

But police said evidence from the scene showed that there was intent to kill, WSBTV reports.

Investigators reported allegedly smelling alcohol on Higdon's breath and that she was mumbling at the scene.

She allegedly told them she didn't know how the shooting happened because she didn't keep rounds in the chamber.

Police had been called to the couple's home five times in the past year, including once for domestic violence.

A close neighbor said the couple had been known to argue but that no one could have predicted the tragic outcome.

The neighbor described seeing an hysterical Higdon on the front porch as she told officers: 'I didn't mean to do it'.

Higdon had worked as a preschool assistant at St George's Episcopal School in Griffin.

Police had been called to the couple's home five times in the past year, including once for domestic violence. They had been together seven years

The couple had been together seven years and their families were said to be close.

An obituary for Freeman described him as living a life 'full of loyalty, love, joy and compassion'.

'He was a friend to everyone, especially if that friend loved fishing and hunting. He had a heart of gold, a bounce in his step, and a sweet Southern drawl,' it read.

'Steven showed his love for you through his belly laughs, big smiles, bear hugs, deer meat, always being there for you, and making you feel you were the only other person in the world. He was never afraid to tell you 'I Love You'.'

His girlfriend was charged with murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.
A young family has relived the terrifying moment their rickshaw rider took a wrong turn and ended up on Australia's busiest freeway.

Kirsten Smith, 44, said she was 'a little worried' when the cart she was travelling in with her partner Darren Evans and their eight-year-old daughter Kaylee turned on to the West Gate Freeway on Monday.

The trio had finished a family lunch in the city's Southbank precinct and hailed down the rickshaw for the short ride back to their car.

'We saw him showing off - he had music pumping - we thought we'd get a lift to the car park with this guy, so off he goes,' Ms Smith told Daily Mail Australia.

A young family has relived the terrifying moment a rickshaw rider took a wrong turn and ended up on Australia's busiest freeway

'We thought, hang on, he's going the wrong way. The next thing we knew we were on the on-ramp to the West Gate Freeway.'

The major freeway is the busiest road in Australia, carrying more than 200,000 vehicles per day.

'We all just looked at each other. We knew he couldn't do a U-turn because that would have been even more dangerous,' Ms Smith said.

'We were getting tooted at, sworn at - a few drivers were filming it. But once we were on there, there was no going back. You've just got to keep going.'

Kirsten Smith, 44, her eight-year-old daughter Kaylee (bottom) and partner Darren (back with the rickshaw rider) ended up on the West Gate Freeway on Monday

The rickshaw operator took the next exit at Power Street and returned them safely to the car park, where Darren and Kaylee posed for a photo with the apologetic rider.

'He just got lost. We weren't offended by it at all. He just took a wrong turn,' Ms Smith said, adding that she gave the rider a small tip.

'He worked pretty hard pulling the three of us up that on-ramp and onto the freeway.'

Riding a bike on the West Gate Freeway is an offence and comes with a $161 fine.
A bachelor party at a Georgia lake went horribly awry when one guest drowned after he and his friends had a contest over who could stay underwater the longest.

Robert Bunsa, 23, was invited to the bachelor party which was taking place in Lake Sinclair.

Bunsa traveled to Baldwin County in Georgia from his home in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, according to The Macon Telegraph.

On Saturday evening, Bunsa and some of the other estimated 15 guests were at a party.

Baldwin County sheriffs Captain Brad King said that a number of the guests, including Bunsa, competed with each other which of them could hold their breath underwater the longest.

Bunsa failed to come to the waters surface as the others had done, according to authorities.

The other guests all climbed out of the water and went into the house thinking that Bunsa had gotten out of the lake first.

A bachelor party at a Georgia lake went horribly awry when one guest drowned after he and his friends had a contest over who could stay underwater the longest. Lake Sinclair, where the tragedy took place, is seen in the above stock image

But when they couldnt find him inside the home, they sensed he was in trouble.

The sheriffs office and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources were summoned to Annette Way near Rocky Creek at approximately 5:40pm on Saturday.

He was missing for some time - over seven minutes, at least, before they realized, and one of the friends did dive down and pull him out, DNR Corporal Lynn Stanford said.

She said that Bunsa was not far from the dock in water whose depth ranges from five to 10 feet.

But visibility in the lake is only about 1 foot, according to Stanford.

A law enforcement officer who lived nearby heard the distress call on the radio and rushed to the scene.

He performed CPR on Bunsa for between 10 and 15 minutes before paramedics arrived.

The authorities hoped Bunsa would survive long enough to be airlifted to a local hospital for treatment, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Baldwin County deputy coroner listed the official time of death at 7:20pm.
A face-tattooed ex-convict has called for better help for prisoners transitioning to life outside jail, claiming most ended up back involved in crime or living on the street.

John Kenney was freed from prison nearly 40 years ago but believes little has changed since his days struggling to assimilate back into society in the 1980s.

'You get judged from the day you're released. Because you've got a criminal background you got nowhere to go. You get no jobs, no place to live, anything,' Mr Kenney told ABC.

John Kenney (pictured) has called for better help for prisoners transitioning to life outside jail, claiming most ended up back involved in crime or living on the street

Mr Kenney (pictured) was freed from prison nearly 40 years ago but believes little has changed since his days struggling to assimilate back into society in the 1980s

'You get judged from the day you're released. Because you've got a criminal background you got nowhere to go,' Mr Kenney (pictured with his old cat) said

The 62-year-old, who now lives in Melbourne at accommodation specifically for elderly people or those at risk of homelessness, has campaigned for change.

He said a lack of rehabilitation support for those at risk of re-offending or becoming homeless meant a huge portion of ex-offenders became stuck in a damaging cycle.

'The set-up is if you go out on parole you've got to find a place to live. You've got to do that from inside prison, which is very hard to do,' Mr Kenney said.

When approaching the end of his sentence, Mr Kenney claimed he wrote up to 100 rental applications but was turned down from every one because of his record.

The 62-year-old (pictured), who now lives in Melbourne at accommodation specifically for elderly people or those at risk of homelessness, has campaigned for change

He said a lack of rehabilitation support for those at risk of re-offending or becoming homeless meant a huge portion of ex-offenders became stuck in a damaging cycle

When approaching the end of his sentence, Mr Kenney (pictured) claimed he wrote up to 100 rental applications but was turned down from every one because of his record

He believed the answer lied in a service for prisoners to set them up with affordable housing, so they could move straight in and begin a new life.

Most, Mr Kenney said, only wanted the opportunity to turn over a new leaf once they were released.

'They should be trusted. If they're going to prove that to society they should be able to come out [and put their] criminal records behind them and go get a job so they can maintain a living, so they can buy or rent a flat.'

He argued a lot of homeless people contemplated committing crimes for the sole purpose of being put in prison and having somewhere other than the street to sleep.

He believed the answer lied in a service for prisoners to set them up with affordable housing, so they could move straight in and begin a new life

Mr Kenney graduated from the Peer Education and Support Program through Council to Homeless Persons last year and was presented a certificate by Shadow Minister for Housing and Homelessness Senator Doug Cameron (pictured together)

Most people, Mr Kenney said, only wanted the opportunity to turn over a new leaf once they were released

Mr Kenney became so addicted to drugs in the 1970s that he hacked a finger off with a meat cleaver during a part-time job to claim compensation money (affected hand pictured)

Out of the 9000 Victorians released from prison in 2014 and 2015, Mr Kenney said most had to come to terms with either facing homelessness or re-offending.

Corrections Victoria said a there was a range of rehabilitation and transition programs to help offenders break the cycle of crime following a prison stint.

Organisations like BeyondHousing were also helping to provide pathways for former inmates looking to transform their lives.

Mr Kenney said having access to affordable housing was absolutely crucial for ex-cons and without it they couldn't consider employment or reconnecting with family.

Out of the 9000 Victorians released from prison in 2014 and 2015, Mr Kenney (pictured) said most had to come to terms with either facing homelessness or re-offending

Corrections Victoria said a there was a range of rehabilitation and transition programs to help offenders break the cycle of crime following a prison stint
A female hotel employee agreed to be tied up in a makeshift robbery in the hope of impressing a thief.

Ngawaiti Rawhiti, 24, was sentenced to four years jail at Mackay District Court onMonday for her involvement in a hotel robbery in December 2015.

Rawhiti, of Sarina, told the thief how to reconcile the hotels tills  which led to him stealing $41,000 as well as the rape of one of her co-workers by his accomplice, the NewsMail reported.

The 24-year-old woman was sentenced to four years jail for her involvement in the hotel robbery in 2015

The 24-year-old was offered $5000 to play along with the robbery by being tied up, as well as delivering information on how to steal from the tills.

During the robbery a woman was sexually assaulted by an accomplice of Rawhiti.

Rawhiti's involvement was not discovered until July 2017 - almost two years after the robbery took place in December 2015.

She even applied for victim's compensation after the robbery.

She will be eligible for parole after 16 months have been served.

Crown prosecutor Elizabeth Kelso said Rawhiti's involvement in the robbery was 'integral' to the crime.

It was unclear if Rawhiti was paid the $5000, Kelso said.

Victim impact statements read by the judge in court spoke of how a victim fears for their safety in their own home.
A Pakistani student has been ambushed by a group of thugs, beaten bloody with a knuckleduster and told to 'go back to your f***ing country, you don't belong here'.

Abdullah Qaiser, 21, was on his way to study at the University of Newcastle library about 8.30pm on Saturday when a group of men and women surrounded his car and brutally attacked him.

A woman reached through his window and stole his mobile phone while a man opened his car door, punched him in the face and told him to go back to Pakistan.

Pakistani student Abdullah Qaiser, 21, (pictured) was left with a broken nose when he was attacked by a group of thugs who told him to 'go back to your f***ing country' on Saturday

The full force of the punch combined with the metal knuckleduster left Mr Qaiser with a broken nose that will likely require surgery.

The 21-year-old engineering student said he lost consciousness briefly before waking up and driving to the university's first aid room.

'I panicked. I didn't know what to do. The blood was flowing out of my nose,' he told the Newcastle Herald.

The first aid paramedics called an ambulance and notified police of the attack.

Mr Qaiser was taken to John Hunter Hospital where he was treated for injuries to his face.

Mr Qaiser, who moved from Pakistan to Newcastle in February last year, said he left his home country in search of safety and a better life.

'I came over here because I believed it was pretty secure,' he said.

'I'm from Pakistan  you know what's happening in Pakistan  people come here to get a better education, to be a bit secure. So when this kind of thing happens, it's pretty sad.'

Mr Qaiser (pictured), who moved from Pakistan to Newcastle in February last year, said he left his home country in search of safety and a better life

A University of Newcastle spokesperson told the publication they were assisting the police with their investigation after the attack happened outside their campus (pictured)

Newcastle Police investigating the attack told Daily Mail Australia they were reviewing CCTV footage from the university campus.

Officers said they wanted to speak with a man and woman who might be able to assist with their inquiries.

The man has been described as Caucasian in appearance, aged between 20-25, of a muscular build with short blond hair.

The woman has also been described as Caucasian in appearance, aged between 20-25, of a slim build and with long light brown hair worn in a ponytail.

Police urged anyone with information about the attack to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A University of Newcastle spokesperson told the publication they were assisting the police with their investigation.
A messy dispute between a mayor and a councillor could lead to a delay in leading German supermarket Kaufland opening its first store in Australia.

The Tea Tree Gully Council in South Australia has revealed that councillor Paul Barbaro has lodged a defamation claim against Mayor Kevin Knight, The Advertiser reported.

The defamation claim refers to an email that Mr Knight allegedly sent to his staff after a debate by councillors into the proposed development of the supermarket.

A preliminary defamation suit from a Tea Tree Gully councillor against its mayor has dragged Kaufland Supermarkets into the debate

Kaufland has put forward a proposal to develop a budget shopping centre in the area in South Australia, which would compete with Aldi, Woolworths and Coles.

Council decided against live-streaming the vote on the proposal, set to take place on August 14, on YouTube, after Kaufland warned it may lead to defamatory statements being broadcast.

In an email sent after the decision, Mr Knight allegedly made reference to a past councillor's attempts to live-stream meetings and linked that to Mr Barbaro.

Mr Barbaro then drafted up a Notice of Concerns document and sent it to council chief executive John Moyle, taking issue with the comparison of him and the past councillor.

The Tea Tree Gully Council in South Australia has revealed that councilor Paul Barbaro (right) has lodged a defamation claim against council Mayor Kevin Knight (left) over comments in council email

The potential for a drawnout civil case between Mr Barbaro and Mr Knight may now disrupt the Kaufland proposal.

Kaufland supermarkets finalised its plans to open its first store in Australia in May, with a number of potential sites in the Adelaide area earmarked for the proposed 4,000sqm supermarket.

Kaufland is the world's fourth largest retailer, with up to 60,000 product lines including 'K-Classic' brands.

The company intends on opening stores in other Australian states after the rollout of its South Australian store.
Mel B has been ordered to pay ex husband Stephen Belafonte $350,000 in legal fees as the long running court battle between them finally came to a close.

And Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Mark Juhas also threw out both restraining orders that the warring couple had tried to slap on each other.

Instead the former Spice Girl, 43, who showed up in court Monday in a cream-colored shoulder less dress and five-inch spike heels, and Belafonte reached a mutual agreement to stay at least 200 yards away from each other.

The couple - who share custody of their six-year-old daughter Madison - was also ordered to set aside $1.1million ($550,000 each) when they sell their $8million former marital home, to pay back taxes they owe for 2016.

Mel B has been ordered to pay ex husband Stephen Belafonte $350,000 in legal fees as the long running court battle between them finally came to a close. Mel B is seen left leaving a Los Angeles court on Monday

The America's Got Talent star was also ordered to pay Belafonte (above) $5,000 a month in child support for their daughter Madison. Belafonte is seen above in Los Angeles in February

As for the whopping legal fees Mel - real name Melanie Brown - was ordered to pay Belafonte, half has to be paid within 30 days and the remaining $175,000 when their former home is sold.

The America's Got Talent star was also ordered to pay Belafonte $5,000 a month in child support for their daughter Madison.

After Monday's hearing Belafonte told DailyMail.com: Im ecstatic - Im going to Disneyworld. I got everything I wanted and we could have settled this months ago. It's such a relief that it's finally over.'

However, Belafonte, also 43, said he was disappointed that his request for step visitation with 10-year-old Angel - Mel's daughter by Eddie Murphy - was not part of the agreement he made with Mel, who has vehemently opposed his efforts to spend time with Angel.

Belafonte helped raise Angel from birth.

We wanted to get all the other issues between us settled so I decided to table that, he added.

But its very possible I could try again - because I would really like to spend time with Angel.

Belafonte - who, as usual, wore a gray suit in court - and Mel were divorced last December after a bitter nine-month battle in which lurid tales of kinky sex, drug and alcohol abuse and allegations of domestic violence made headlines.

The step parent visitation motion was just one of several issues - mostly involving children and finances - that the judge tried to get the couple to resolve in his courtroom last month.

But after nine grueling hours over two days in court, the couple couldnt end their bitter deadlock which included Belafontes request for a restraining order against Mel, claiming that she wants him dead or thrown in jail, and hers against Belafonte requiring him not to harass her and to stay 100 yards away from her.

With no sign of a compromise between the couple, Judge Juhas ordered both to come back to court Monday to try to settle their differences and reach agreement at last.

In their settlement, while theyll voluntarily stay 200 yards away from each other, exceptions will be made for daughter Madisons school events, extra-curricular activities and teacher conferences.

The former Spice Girl, 43, and Belafonte reached a mutual agreement to stay at least 200 yards away from each other. The couple is seen above in 2015

Theyll also split vacation and school holiday time with Madison and, according to their agreement, Neither parent will make disparaging remarks to Madison about the other parent.

Belafonte - who, as usual, wore a gray suit in court - and Mel were divorced last December after a bitter nine-month battle in which lurid tales of kinky sex, drug and alcohol abuse and allegations of domestic violence made headlines.

Despite their divorce being final more than six months ago, trying to settle complicated issues between them, mostly over children and money has dragged on through this summer, with Mel estimating that shes now spent more than $1million in legal fees and owes another $800,000 to attorneys and accountants.

Mel claims the long-drawn-out split with Belafonte has ruined her financially, shes more than $3million in the red and the IRS has started garnishing her Americas Got Talent salary to pay off hundreds of thousand of dollars in back taxes she owes.

The couples marriage fell apart in March last year when Mel filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences, and she took out a domestic violence restraining order against Belafonte, accusing him of years of abuse against her, embezzling $10 million of her money and keeping her drugged during much of their marriage. Belafonte has denied all the allegations.

Family ties: The I Want You Back singer has a six-year-old daughter Madison with Stephen and daughters Phoenix, 19, and Angel, 11, from past relationships (pictured in 2015)

Mel also took out a civil harassment restraining order against the couples beautiful blonde nanny Lorraine Gilles whom she branded a home wrecker and prostitute she claimed had an affair with Belafonte and conspired with him against her by threatening to release embarrassing sex videos of Mel.

Over the following nine months intimate details were revealed about the couples sex life during their marriage, including three-ways with German-born Gilles who claimed to have had a seven-year sexual relationship with Mel.

Belafonte and Gilles, 26, repeatedly denied Browns charges against them and fought the restraining orders through 20-plus court hearings till, at last, the case was set to go to trial in November 2017.

The trial was halted when Mel and Belafonte reached a private settlement at the 11th hour and Judge Juhas dissolved the domestic violence restraining order.

Three days later Mel also dropped her restraining order against Gilles.

The divorce became final last December 15 with Mel agreeing to pay Belafonte $15,000 a month in spousal support until December 2020.

As part of their divorce settlement Mel and Belafonte are to split the proceeds of their former marital home in LA, worth an estimated $8 million.
Far-right extremist Blair Cottrell has crudely suggested Sky News reporter Laura Jayes would have been 'happier' if he raped her on air during an interview.

The 27-year-old took to Twitter on Tuesday morning following his controversial appearance on Sunday night, claiming the backlash would have been similar had he raped political reporter, Ms Jayes.

'I might as well have raped Laura Jayes on the air, not only would she have been happier with that, but the reaction would've been the same,' Cottrell wrote.

Far-right extremist Blair Cottrell (pictured) has crudely suggested Sky News reporter Laura Jayes would have been 'happier' if he raped her on air during an interview

He took to Twitter Tuesday morning following his controversial appearance on Sunday night, claiming backlash would have been similar had he raped political reporter Laura Jayes

The tweet, which has since been deleted, also stated that Sky News had 'invited me onto their show, then within a couple of hours: deleted the interview, sacked the presenter and cancelled his program, lost Craig Emerson, who quit over it, and banned me from ever coming on again'.

His comments followed the network's back pedaling following his appearance, with News Director Greg Byrnes admitting it was 'wrong' to give the convicted criminal airtime.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Cottrell for comment.

'It was wrong to have Blair Cottrell on Sky News Australia. His views do not reflect ours. The interview has been removed from repeat timeslots and online platforms,' a tweet attributed to Mr Byrnes read.

In a post of her own, in which she shared a photo of Cottrell's original lewd Tweet, Ms Jayes wrote that her initial impression of his character had been proven accurate.

Cottrell wrote, 'I might as well have raped Laura Jayes (pictured) on the air, not only would she have been happier with that, but the reaction would've been the same'

Sky News back-pedalled and issued a grovelling apology after hosting infamous far-right extremist Blair Cottrell (pictured left) on one of its programs

'As if to prove my original character assessment.... Blair Cottrell posts (and later deletes) some weird suggestion about raping me on air,' she said.

'He's not just a fascist. He's down right dangerous.'

Other Sky News employees agreed the network made a bad decision by inviting Cotterell to be interviewed.

'I have just arrived back in the country tonight to be met with the understandable outrage over this,' political editor David Speers wrote.

Similarly, presenter Janine Perrett added: 'Blair Cottrell should not be described as an activist but for what he truly is - a convicted criminal with a dangerous record.'

In the past, Cottrell has also expressed support for the hanging of a picture of Adolf Hitler in every Australian classroom

The chorus of regret was soon added to by other Sky News employees who agreed the decision to host Cottrell was the wrong one

Cottrell has gained infamy in recent years for a string of Islamophobic behaviour.

Last year he was the among the first people to be found guilty, convicted and fined for a criminal offence under Victoria's racial vilification laws.

The conviction came after he and two others staged a mock beheading outside the City of Bendigo offices in protest against building a mosque in the Victorian town.

A video of the incident was uploaded online and showed red liquid spill onto the footpath when the dummy was beheaded.

And after Sky News' retraction of support, Cottrell was quick to take aim at the news channel, claiming it had bowed to pressure from leftists

In the past, Cottrell has also expressed support for the hanging of a picture of Adolf Hitler in every Australian classroom.

And after Sky News' retraction of support, Cottrell was quick to take aim at the news channel, claiming it had bowed to pressure from progressives.

'Lol so Sky News caved already to Lefist abuse,' he wrote on Twitter.

'I suppose my ideas are so irrefutable, that the only recourse is to silence me. How pathetic.'
Julie Bishop has been slammed online after announcing aid for earthquake-devastated Indonesia.

The Foreign Affairs Minister has been told to 'look after Australians in trouble' after a Tuesday morning interview outlined provisions given to the Indonesian Red Cross.

The tropical island was hit with a 7.0 magnitude earthquake on Sunday, which has left at least 98 dead.

The island was further rattled by a 5.2 magnitude earthquake on Monday night.

But Australians have taken to Facebook to slam Ms Bishop, saying that the government's priorities should be with drought-stricken farmers.

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Julie Bishop (pictured) spoke live from Lombok on Tuesday morning, outlining Australia's assistance program to earthquake-devastated Indonesia

A video of her interview has been torn apart by online critics, who say that the Foreign Minister has her priorities out of whack

In an interview with 9 News, Ms Bishop said that propositioned supplies were already housed in Java in case of emergency, and had been delivered to the local Red Cross.

While the Red Cross has asked for basic supplies, Ms Bishop says the Indonesian government has not asked for any assistance.

'If there's something we can do to assist in this natural disaster, we certainly would offer,' she said.

While hundreds of Australians are reportedly among the 10,000 evacuated from the island, social media users have slammed the Australian official, claiming her priorities were out of order.

'Australian government offering help to others but having to be shamed into doing the right thing at home!!' one comment read.

'What a joke this Government is. Asking our Farmers in trouble have to fill out paperwork with 259 questions to receive $6000.00 of the money promised by the government.

'Bet Indonesia doesn't have this much paperwork to get assistance.'

Villages in the Indonesian island of Lombok have been left devastated (pictured) after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake on Sunday

Australians criticised the government's willingness to provide aid, saying their priority should be Australian farmers, who are suffering one of the worst droughts in a century (pictured)

The Turnbull government announced lump-sum payments of up to $12,000 for drought-stricken farmers on Sunday.

Up to $1 million has also been pledged towards mental health programs to support the farmers who might need it.

Grant Denyer is one of many Australians who believe that the current drought, which is one of the most intense that the country has suffered in the past century, deserves to be deemed a natural disaster.

On Lombok itself, local authorities say that villages have been flattened and thousands of residents and tourists stranded.

Some Australian travellers were forced to wait from dawn on Monday until nightfall to get off Gili Trawangan, a beach on Lombok, which is only accessible by boat.

Ms Bishop said some Australian holidaymakers on the Gili islands were choosing to stay if their accommodation had not been damaged.

Several hundred foreigners spent a second night with no electricity or water on the Gili Islands after rescue boats ran out of fuel on Monday.

On the Gili Islands (pictured), tourists reacted to the tremors by grabbing their belongings and sprinting for higher ground in fear of a tsunami
Bega has stepped up its war of words with Kraft ahead of a court battle between the peanut butter rivals.

Kraft peanut butter has recently reappeared on supermarket shelves after disappearing in 2017, but Bega is insisting that it produces the only authentic breakfast staple.

Kraft says the spread from Bega - found in almost identical packaging as Kraft's - 'isn't the real thing'.

Kraft peanut butter was off Australian shelves for over a year, and now that it's back, their archrival is saying it isn't the same

In 2012, US firm Kraft let Bega take control of peanut butter in Australia when they sold their Port Melbourne factory, along with the recipes for peanut butter and Vegemite, to Bega Cheese.

Bega ran advertisements across TV and radio saying 'Kraft peanut butter is now Bega peanut butter'. The ad also said: 'Never oily, never dry, with the same taste you've always loved, and now is Aussie owned by Bega.'

But Kraft, owned by US brand Heinz, re-emerged in the Australian market with their peanut butter appearing in selected supermarkets, including IGA.

Neither Coles or Woolworths currently stock the childhood favourite.

The battle between the two is heating up as the two companies are set to face off in court this week over allegations of trademark infringement, news.com.au reported.

The global food company isn't happy with Bega using the classic yellow lids and peanut shaped labels.

It also claims that the advertisements portray a false message that the Kraft brand became Bega peanut butter.

The Kraft peanut butter jars are designed with the classic yellow lids and peanut shaped logo, and are almost identical to the Bega equivalent

Kraft argued in court that Bega planned to 'trade off the goodwill of the Kraft brand, cause consumer confusion, and irreparably harm the value of Kraft's intellectual property'.

The court battle began in New York earlier this year and is set to be continued in Melbourne.

It is predicted that the winner of the court battle will dominate the Australian peanut butter market - believed to be worth about $110 million.

Research professor at the University of South Australia's Ehrenberg Bass Institute, Jenni Romaniuk, said that the fight was 'a bit of a mess'.

If shoppers choose their old favourite, it could negatively affect Bega in a big way.

Both brands plan to keep the same look until a decision is made.
A Kansas man who opened fire on a suburban Kansas City bar, killing an immigrant from India and wounding two other men, has been sentenced to three consecutive life prison sentences for what federal prosecutors said was a hate crime.

Adam Purinton, 53, did not speak in court on Tuesday as he was sentenced for the Febrary 22, 2017, shooting at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, that killed Srinivas Kuchibhotla.

Kuchibhotla was a citizen of India who had stopped at the bar with a co-worker, Alok Madasani, both 32, for an after-work drink.

Witnesses said Purinton, who is white, uttered racial slurs at Kuchibhotla and Madasani. He was asked to leave but eventually returned and yelled 'Get out of my country!' before firing at the men. A third man, Ian Grillot, was wounded when he tried to intervene.

Adam Purinton is seen in court in May. On Tuesday he was sentenced to three life sentences in federal court, to run consecutively

Sunayana Dumala (left with husband Srinivas Kuchibhotla) wrote a statement that was read in court on Tuesday. Kuchibhotla was killed and Alok Madasani (right) was injured in the shooting

Though none of his victims appeared in court Tuesday, prosecutors read a statement that Sunayana Dumala, Kuchibhotla's widow, had addressed to Purinton.

'Srinu and I came to the United States of America full of dreams and aspirations. . . . Now, my American Dream - and that of Srinu's - is broken,' she wrote.

'If you could have kept your anger inside and spoke to my husband softly, Srinu would have been more than happy to share his background and help you understand that not every brown skinned person is suspicious or evil, but kind, smart and contributing to America. Instead you chose to rage and bully in anger and when you were stopped, you decided to take their lives,' the statement continued.

The shooting raised concerns that immigrants were facing more harassment after the election of President Donald Trump and prompted officials in India to question whether their citizens were safe in the U.S.

Another man, Ian Grillot, (above) was wounded when he tried to intervene. Grillot, who hid under a table during the shooting, confronted the gunman once he thought Purinton had run out of ammunition. He was shot in the hand and chest

Witnesses said Purinton yelled 'Get out of my country!' before firing at two men who had stopped for an after-work drink at Austin's Bar and Grill in Olathe, Kansas. Purinton is seen above during his first court appearance via video conference from jail in Olathe in 2017

Purinton was arrested after the shooting in Missouri after he allegedly told a bartender he was running from police because of the shooting.

He pleaded guilty to federal hate crime charges in May, in a deal that allowed him to avoid the death penalty.

His sentence on Tuesday will run consecutively to another life sentence Purinton previously received for first-degree murder in Johnson County District Court in Kansas.

U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement that Purinton's crimes were 'detestable.'

'The defendant acted with clear premeditation in murdering one man, and attempting to murder a second man, simply because of their race, religion, and national origin,' according to the statement.

'As a result, a promising young life has been tragically cut short, and other lives have been filled with suffering. Securing this sentence is important not only to the victims and their loved ones, but also to our justice system and our nation as a whole.'
An influx of thousands of flying foxes has one Australian suburb under siege with residents complaining their children are too frightened to play outside.

Residents of Herston, three kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD, say every year in winter thousands of flying foxes migrate to the area to feed.

According to figures obtained by 7 News, there are at least 21,000 flying foxes, grey and black headed, roosting in the area.

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An influx of thousands of flying foxes has the suburb of Herston, Brisbane, under siege with some residents complaining their kids are too frightened to play outside

Resident Adam Westerink told 7 News the presence of the flying foxes was unbearable, particularly the noise they create.

'We are scared to come into the playground,' he said.

Mr Westerink said he fears the spread of diseases such as Lyssavirus, a rabies virus known to be transmitted by flying foxes.

The roost is close to the RNA Showgrounds in Brisbane which will be hosting The Ekka from August 10 to 19.

The Queensland Government's Department of Environment and Science has a page dedicated to the issues surrounding flying foxes setting up roosts near homes.

'Living next door to 100,000 animals of any sort can be difficult when they are active and noisy at night, prone to smell, and eat the fruit from your trees,' the statement reads.

'The enormous roosts of little red flying-foxes may create problems for people but these are generally short-lived as they move on in search of new sources of nectar and fruit every one to two months.'

The department said the continued survival of flying foxes came down to people's willingness to live alongside them for short times and said there was little to worry about in terms of 'public health'.

'From a public health perspective, in almost all circumstances there is no reason to be alarmed if a colony moves in nearby,' the statement reads.

'There is also no evidence that the virus can be passed directly from flying-foxes to humans, from the environment to humans, from humans to horses, or that it is airborne.'

The roost is close to the RNA Showgrounds in Brisbane which will be hosting The Ekka from August 10 to 19

The department also has tips for managing while flying foxes roost nearby including not leaving washing out overnight, parking your car under shelter and to avoid disturbing the roost.

Despite the claims of public health not being at risk, the flying fox is a known carrier of the Hendra virus which has been known to cross into horses.

'The resulting infection can result in the death of the horse. The infections are rare, which indicates that transmissions may only occur under very specific and extreme conditions,' the department website states.

Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABL), which Mr Westerink said worried him, can only be caught from untreated scratches or bites from a flying fox.

There have been two recorded deaths in Australia as a direct result of contracting ABL.

'If you find a sick, injured or orphaned flying-fox, do not touch it. Contact your local wildlife care organisation or the RSPCA,' the department states.

If you are scratched or bitten advice is to leave the wound, do not scrub it.

There have been two recorded deaths in Australia as a direct result of contracting ABL, which is carried by flying foxes

Instead wash it very gently with soap and water for at least five minutes before adding antiseptic over the wound, then seek medical attention.

'If bat saliva gets into your eyes, nose or mouth, or into an open wound, flush thoroughly with water and seek medical advice immediately,' the department states.

Residents of Herston are not powerless to do anything though.

According to wildlife laws around the management of flying foxes, local governments have the right to 'disperse, remove or otherwise manage' flying fox populations in built up or urban areas.

They can only use non-lethal means to move the flying foxes on, which are not proven to be 100 per cent successful.

SPECIES OF FLYING FOX Bare-backed fruit-bat: Often roosts under piles of boulders and dense vegetation; found in northern Cape York. Black flying-fox: Usually form camps in mangroves or paperbark swamps; found throughout eastern Queensland. Common blossom-bat: Lives in rainforest in north Queensland and also heathland, paperbark swamp and coastal eucalypt forest in southern Queensland. Dusky flying-fox: Only one specimen known from Percy Island off the coast of central Queensland. Eastern tube-nosed bat: Usually found in rainforest throughout eastern Queensland. Grey-headed flying-fox: It can be found in open forest and rainforests along the east coast of mainland Australia south of Rockhampton. Little red flying-fox: This species is nomadic forming temporary roosts in open forest, woodland, paperbark swamps and mangroves where trees are in flower or fruit. It occurs over much of Queensland. Northern blossom-bat: Found across a range of vegetation types from mangroves to rainforests in Cape York and north-east Queensland. Spectacled flying-fox: Found in or near rainforest in north-east Queensland. Torresian tube-nosed bat: Occurs in rainforest on Moa Island in Torres Strait but also occurs in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. Source: Queensland Department of Environment and Science Advertisement

Professor Michael Whitby of Greenslopes Private Hospital told 7 News residents needed to avoid disturbing the flying foxes or getting too close.

'Health authorities recommend you leave injured flying foxes alone. If you touch the flying fox youre in trouble, if you leave it alone it shouldnt cause you any problems,' he said.

Brisbane City Council released a statement regarding the ongoing management of flying fox populations in the city area.

'Where appropriate, Council will implement management actions on Council-owned or controlled land in order to minimise adverse impacts of flying-fox roosts on residents and the community,' the statement read.

'The management of roosts on private property within Brisbanes Urban Flying-Fox Management Area remains the responsibility of the landholder.'

Council also stated that 'the grey-headed flying-fox is afforded additional protection because of its declining numbers'.
The Emmett Till memorial has been riddled with bullets again - just 35 days after a new sign was erected at the Mississippi site.

The memorial, located near the Tallahatchie River where the slain black teen's body was found in August 1955, had been destroyed on July 26, the Clarion Ledger first reported.

The mystery vandalism marks the third sign commemorating the murder that was destroyed since it was first put up in 2007.

In 2008, the sign was stolen and in 2016, it was riddled with bullets. Authorities say they have no information about the suspects responsible, even after the incident late last month.

The Emmett Till memorial, where the slain black teen's body was found in August 1955, has been shot up once again. The sign was destroyed on July 26 (a photo of the vandalised sign is seen above)

The previous sign (shown above) was also riddled with bullets in 2016

Emmett Till (pictured in this undated photo) was brutally murdered in 1955 in Mississippi after flirting with a white woman

Co-founder of the Emmett Till Interpretive Center, Patrick Weems, told the Clarion Ledger the center is 'committed to seeing the sign replaced.'

Weems said: 'We have already begun plans to replace the sign and have notified local law enforcement about the vandalism.

'Our mission is to continue to tell the truth as it concerns the Emmett Till story... we are saddened by these events but are unwavering in our commitment to truth and racial reconciliation.'

The center's president, Alvin Sykes, said he believes the new sign should stay as it is.

'The sign going back up is a sign of progress,' he told the newspaper. 'The bullets are showing how much further we need to go.'

Mamie Till Mobley is seen weeping at her son's funeral on September 6, 1955, in Chicago. She insisted on an open-casket funeral for her son. Jet magazine published photos of his corpse, which generated outrage that gave momentum to the civil rights movement

In August 1955, the 14-year-old Chicago teen had been visiting relatives in the Mississippi Delta where witnesses said he whistled at a white woman working behind the counter of a store in the tiny town of Money.

By August 28, he was kidnapped from his uncle's nearby home - and three days later, his body was recovered from the Tallahatchie River, gruesomely disfigured.

Barbed wire was wrapped around his neck and he was weighted down with a cotton gin fan.

Till's mother insisted on an open-casket funeral, and Jet magazine published photos of his corpse. It generated outrage that gave momentum to the civil rights movement.

This 1955 file photo shows Carolyn Donham, also known as Carolyn Bryant, who was at the center of the trial of Emmett Till's alleged killers. Donham acknowledged that she falsely testified that he made physical and verbal threats, according to a new book

The federal government recently announced it was reopening its investigation into the brutal slaying Till.

The Justice Department told Congress in a report in March it is re-investigating Till's murder after receiving 'new information'.

The case was closed in 2007 with authorities saying the suspects were dead; a state grand jury didn't file any new charges.

The federal report, sent annually to lawmakers under a law that bears Till's name, does not indicate what the new information might be.

But it was issued following last year's publication of 'The Blood of Emmett Till' - a book that says a key figure in the case acknowledged lying about events preceding the slaying.

The book, by Timothy B Tyson, quotes a white woman, Carolyn Donham, as acknowledging during a 2008 interview that she wasn't truthful when she testified that Till grabbed her, whistled and made sexual advances at a store in 1955.
The whereabouts of a white-haired stalker is being honed in on by Victoria Police.

Fawkner Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives are continuing their investigation into a man who terrorises women by writing them long, sexual letters.

The predator delivered at least 12 letters to four women at businesses across Melbourne since January.

His victims were from Melbourne's south-western suburbs of Coburg, Essendon and Torquay, with police now honing in on Angelsea.

Police believe the offender has continued to write a number of letters since they appealed for information from the public in July.

The letters are each up to ten pages long and gave the women anxiety, police said.

Police are hunting a man after he delivered at least 12 letters to four women at businesses across Melbourne

The man, between 40 and 60 years old, also creepily called the same women from a payphone.

Police released CCTV footage of a man they want to speak to walking to a payphone in Airport West on May 9 when the most recent call was made.

A Victoria Police statement read: 'Fawkner Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives are investigating a series of inappropriate letters and phone calls in the Coburg, Torquay and Essendon areas.

'A number of sexually explicit, handwritten letters were sent to different businesses since January 2018.

'Recently the offender has been making inappropriate phone calls to female staff members at the same businesses.

'The calls are believed to have been made from pay phones in the Melbourne and Surf Coast areas but the most recent on 9 May was from Airport West.

'Investigators have released images and CCTV of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.

'Anyone who may have any information about the incidents are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.'
Dynasty actress Catherine Oxenberg has revealed that her daughter India is home and has reunited with her family, seven years after she joined NXIVM.

Oxenberg spent the past year trying to bring down the cult in a bid to get 27-year-old daughter away from the organization which has been accused to branding female members and using them as sex slaves.

The controversial group, headquartered in New York, is led by Keith Raniere and his right-hand woman, Allison Mack.

In a Monday night Dateline interview, Oxenberg shared with Megyn Kelly a message in the words of her daughter.

India's message said: '"I am moving on with my life. It's a complex situation. I understand my mom's struggle, and the people involved. I care for all of them very deeply. Right now, I would like privacy. I will share my side of the story in the near future, in my own time.'"

Oxenberg initially took India to a meeting for a Nxivm motivational course back in 2011 after her daughter wanted to try her hand at being an entrepreneur.

Oxenberg revealed in an interview with Megyn Kelly that India was branded with Nxivm leader Keith Raniere's initials

Oxenberg said her daughter has made the decision to finally reunite with family (the two are seen above October 19, 2007 in Los Angeles)

While she ended up distancing her from the group, India became immersed and eventually moved to the group's headquarters.

'I brought her in. And that's why I feel responsible for getting her out. At first I felt horrendous guilt that I had participated in bringing my daughter into an organization that was this deviant and dangerous,' Oxenberg said.

'I did my darnedest to try to get her involved in other things, to try and redirect her interests, to try and get her other jobs. But nothing worked... I couldn't believe the hold that they had over her.'

The actress discussed the moment she learned India was branded with the initials of Raniere and Mack.

'I was horrified,' Oxenberg said in the Dateline interview.

When asked if her daughter had ever been branded with the marking that 'slaves' were forced to have in the cult's secret organization known as DOS, Oxenberg said: 'Yeah she did'.

'She did and I said, "are you aware of what you're branded with?" And she said, "some Latin symbol".

'So it's very possible she was told it was a Latin symbol because a lot of the girls were not told it was Keith's  and possibly Allison's  initials.'

Oxenberg added: 'She said it was character building.'

Kelly then asked Oxenberg what it was like to see that symbol branded on her child.

'As the mother of a daughter, I can't imagine. You look at their beautiful skin, their beautiful bodies that you've tried to raise in a way that wont be corrupted and to think some man put his brand on there. What does that do to you?' Kelly asked.

Oxenberg simply stated that she was 'horrified.'

The Dynasty star says her 27-year-old daughter India was branded with Keith Raniere and Allison Mack's initials. Pictured above is the branding on one of the women

Oxenberg has spent the past year trying to bring down the cult in hopes of getting her 27-year-old daughter away from the organization and leader Keith Raniere (above)

Raniere and Allison Mack (above leaving court last month) are accused of coercing Nxivm followers into becoming slaves to senior members

Raniere was arrested in Mexico this year and taken to the US to face charges that he, along with an adherent, Smallville actress Allison Mack, coerced followers into becoming slaves to senior members.

Prosecutors said Mack helped Raniere recruit women to a secret sub-society within Nxivm whose members were branded with a surgical tool with a symbol that resembled his initials.

Despite criticism for years by ex-followers who called NXIVM a cult and a pyramid scheme, the organization's intense self-improvement classes had, at one point, earned it thousands of adherents, including some with Hollywood ties.

They included Nicki Clyne, an actress who appeared on Battlestar Galactica, Bronfman's sister Sara, and a son of former Mexican president Carlos Salinas de Gortari.

Raniere and Mack pleaded not guilty to sex-trafficking charges.
An Aboriginal actor violently assaulted and bit the ears off a man who came to his rescue after he crashed his car in a drunken accident last year.

Bruce Roland Carter, with roles in Picnic at Hanging Rock, Cargo and Last Cab to Darwin, grabbed a man in a headlock, repeatedly punched and bit him in an unprovoked attack in September, District Court has heard.

The victim's right ear was able to be repaired but his left had to be amputated, with police finding a chunk at the scene following the altercation, Adelaide Now reported.

Bruce Roland Carter (pictured playing Willie in Cargo) allegedly violently assaulted and bit the ears off a man who came to his rescue after he crashed his car last year

The 36-year-old alleged offender has pleaded guilty to one count of intentionally causing serious harm to another person and one aggravated count of assault.

It wouldn't be the first violent offence for Carter, prosecutor Jacqueline Fong said as she alluded to several arrests and convictions dating back to 2008.

'There appears to be an escalating, violent offending history...it has escalated to this point, where he has bitten off his victim's ears,' she told the court.

Ms Fong said his 'extremely serious offending' constituted a case for immediate imprisonment.

The alleged attack followed Carter crashing a vehicle in Murray Bridge, south-east of Adelaide, where he was found to have a blood-alcohol level of 0.128.

'The victim has suffered not only the excruciating pain of having his ears bitten off and going through multiple surgeries thereafter,' Ms Fong said.

The 36-year-old alleged offender (pictured) has pleaded guilty to one count of intentionally causing serious harm to another person and one aggravated count of assault

'He has also suffered psychologically...this has had a ripple effect upon his life...this has had a devastating, profound impact on the victim.'

Carter's lawyer, Mike Norman, argued his client was remorseful and he hoped to one day 'in 10 or 20 years' time come to serve as a leader of his people.

Mr Norman said it was the death of Carter's grandfather and a hit-and-run incident that marked the beginning of him 'hitting the grog big time' and ingesting 'an amazing cocktail of drugs'.

Judge Simon Stretton said the events were no excuse and Carter's actions were an example of the devastating effect methamphetamine had on people's lives.

Carter has been remanded in custody for sentencing next week.
An elderly woman has had her handbag stolen from an airport security conveyor belt while waiting for a patdown.

Helen Sweetnam, 84, was going through security while on her way to Mt Gambier, South Australia on July 6, when her pacemaker set off an alarm and she was stopped.

While waiting for a female Melbourne Airport security officer to search her, Ms Sweetnam's handbag was snatched from the checkpoint conveyor belt.

Helen Sweetnam (pictured), 84, was going through security while on her way to Mt Gambier, South Australia on July 6, when her pacemaker set off an alarm and she was stopped

Airport security was able to track down the bag with the help of CCTV footage, but Ms Sweetnam lost $630, her ID and jewellery, Yahoo Seven reported.

The woman found with Ms Sweetnam's bag claimed she took the bag by mistake, despite cash, a mobile phone and pearl earrings disappearing from inside.

Ms Sweetnam called on Melbourne Airport to change its procedures for dealing with elderly passengers, and said she was left stranded after the incident.

With no wallet, phone or ID, the octogenarian was forced to wait for her daughter to get off a separate flight so they could continue their trip together.

'I had no idea if I was going to get any help. You would think if they see a woman with a pacemaker, they should think her heart's not good,' she said.

'She [an elderly woman with a pacemaker] doesn't need to be put through the extra anxiety.'

Ms Sweetnam also claimed her complaints to the airport and the Australian Federal Police were not taken seriously.

'I can't understand how they can be so insensitive. It's rather horrifying when you find nobody takes notice,' she said.

While waiting for a female Melbourne Airport security officer to search her, Ms Sweetnam's handbag was snatched from the checkpoint conveyor belt (stock image)

Melbourne Airport told Daily Mail Australia Ms Sweetnam was 'the victim of a very opportunistic, and incredibly brazen crime'.

'It would take a person of some considerable motivation to even contemplate committing such a crime in view of the myriad security arrangements that are in place at an airport screening point,' a spokesperson said.

'As has been reported the AFP attended the scene promptly, they identified and engaged with a person of interest. Regrettably, there was a lack of evidence for charges to be laid.

'Mrs Sweetnam has been the victim of a crime, and the individual who has committed that crime has undoubtedly ruined Mrs Sweetnam's experience of travel.

'We're completely sensitive to that and we're keen to ensure Mrs Sweetnam is looked after  and we hope we can restore her confidence to travel in the future.'

Daily Mail Australia contacted the Australian Federal Police for comment.
West Hollywood city council has unanimously approved a motion calling for the removal of Donald Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Put forth by West Hollywood Mayor pro tempore John D'Amico and Councilwoman Lindsey Horvath, the motion, passed on Monday night, seeks the removal of the landmark 'due to [Trump's] disturbing treatment of women and other actions.'

However, the vote is not legally binding as the council has no control over the Walk of Fame. The council will instead send a formal letter to the overseeing bodies, Los Angeles city council and Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, asking them to consider it.

Targeted: Donald Trump's star should be removed from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a council voted on Monday night. The motion is unlikely to have any effect but is a symbolic stand against the administration

Trump received his star in 2007 (pictured), it has been targeted numerous times since his Presidential campaign began

They are unlikely to approve it's removal as no star has ever been removed before.

'Once a star has been added to the walk, it is considered a part of the historic fabric of the Hollywood Walk of Fame,' Leron Gubler, then president and chief executive of the chamber, told the LA Times in 2015 over efforts to remove Bill Cosby's star.

'Because of this, we have never removed a star from the walk.'

West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tem John D'Amico (L) and Councilmember Lindsey Horvath (R) put forward the resolution which was approved on Monday. The decision falls for the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce who have never previously removed a star

D'Amico defended the symbolic vote on Tuesday morning saying it was not about politics but principles.

'The West Hollywood City Council did not pass the resolution because Donald Trump is a conservative or a Republican,' he told TheWrap.

'Earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is an honor. When one belittles and attacks minorities, immigrants, people with disabilities or women  the honor no longer exists.'

Trump's star has been repeatedly targeted by vandals since he began his presidential campaign.

The West Hollywood city council has approved a motion calling for Donald Trump's star to be removed from the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It has been targeted by demonstrators multiple times since he took office, pictured above

Last month, 24-year-old Austin Mikel Clay destroyed Trump's star with a pickax and later turned himself into police. He was charged with one felony count of vandalism on Monday in Los Angeles.

Clay could face up to three years in jail if convicted.

James Otis, left, attacked Trump's star days before the November 2016 election while Austin Mikel Clay, right, destroyed it with a pickax last month. He was charged with vandalism on Monday

The star was previously vandalized by James Otis with a sledgehammer and pickax days before the November 2016 election.

Otis pleaded no contest to the felony. He was sentenced to community labor and ordered to pay $4,400 for the damage.

The Walk of Fame features more than 2,500 terrazzo-and-brass stars dedicated to the celebrities and industry figures from movies, television and radio.

Trump received his star in 2007 at a ceremony he attended alongside wife Melania and his youngest son Barron.
A solider who suffered post-traumatic stress disorder from a 'terrifying' plan journey into Afghanistan has won hundreds of thousands of pounds in compensation.

The veteran was onboard an RAF Voyager on the way to Camp Bastion in 2014 when it suddenly plummeted 4,400ft towards the Black Sea for 29 seconds.

Men and women were left 'pinned to the ceiling' as the plane hurtled downwards.

The pilot's camera had got lodged in the controls at 33,000ft and the 38-year-old solider suffered tissue damage  but the plane was eventually brought back under control.

Service personnel on board the jet (pictured) were immediately flung out of their seats and 'pinned to the ceiling' and feared for their lives during the descent

Flt Lt Nathan Jones (pictured) was able to wrestle back control of the nose-diving plane after crawling back to the cockpit on the aircraft's roof with a fractured back

Crew and passengers thought they were going to die when the Voyager aircraft plummeted 4,400ft in a matter of seconds - after the camera jammed the controls (pictured)

Soldier B, one of 187 passengers, feared he would die. From the same flight more than 1million has now been paid out.

Simon Quinn, of Hilary Meredith solicitors, told the Daily Mirror: 'This terrifying ordeal was entirely avoidable.

Our client was convinced he was going to die, as were those around him. Despite prolonged treatment, he continues to suffer ongoing anxiety.'

The plane which left from RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire for Helmand Province in February 2014 was flown by RAF pilot Flt Lt Andrew Townshend.

Bulford Military Court, Wilts, heard Flt Lt Townshend was 'bored' and 'practicing taking long-exposure photography when his co-pilot left the cockpit to get a cup of tea'.

The RAF board was shown this photo, taken by the pilot before his plane went into a nosedive. It shows the cockpit of the Voyager aircraft on February 9, 2014

Terrified servicemen and woman on the aircraft flown by Flight Lieutenant Andrew Townshend, 49,(seen outside Bulford military court) were 'pinned to the ceiling and thought they were going to die'

Giving evidence, Flt Lt Townshend said when he was told his camera caused the dive it was 'the worst day of his life'.

He added: 'I remember seeing an awful lot of ground in front of me which you don't see in planes and remember thinking 's**t, this is so bad'.

'I thought 'this is game over, I'm going to die in this seat'.

Townshend admitted negligence and was given a four-month suspended sentence.

Flt Lt Townshend's camera jammed between his chair's armrest and the side-stick control unit, which works like a joystick. After Flt Lt Jones levelled the plane, they diverted to Incirlik Air Base, Turkey

Col Richard Kemp, the former Commander of British Forces in Afghanistan, told The Mirror: 'I would not compare this with an injury sustained in battle. These were troops heading into a war-zone, I would expect them to be more robust. This payout seems extremely high.'

An MOD spokesperson said: 'We carefully consider all claims and pay compensation where we have a legal obligation to do so. As litigation is currently ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further.'
Residents on Australia's east coast have been warned to batten down the hatches in preparation for wind gusts up to 100km/h.

Hail and more chilly temperatures are also expected for eastern states over the next few days as wintry conditions show no sign of letting up.

Cold fronts have continued to bring wet, cold weather and with it, huge bursts of wind - prompting authorities to remind residents to remain vigilant.

Residents on Australia's east coast have been warned to batten down the hatches in preparation for wind gusts up to 100km/h (Flinders St Station in Melbourne pictured)

The Bureau of Meteorology on Tuesday issued a severe weather warning for parts of Victoria, including Melbourne, Warrnambool, Ballarat and the Alpine regions.

'An active cold front will approach western Victoria later today before crossing the state during overnight and early Wednesday,' the bureau said.

'Damaging winds averaging 50 to 70km/h with peak gusts of 90 to 100km/h are possible overnight and early Wednesday morning in elevated areas.'

Gusts up to 90km/h are expected to hit coastal areas, with Melbourne likely to experience showers and a maximum of 15C Tuesday.

Cold fronts have continued to bring wet, cold weather and with it, huge bursts of wind - prompting authorities to remind residents to remain vigilant (wind patterns pictured)

The Bureau of Meteorology on Tuesday issued a severe weather warning for parts of Victoria (pictured), including Melbourne, Warrnambool, Ballarat and the Alpine regions

Sydneysiders bared the brunt of 'vigorous westerly winds' in the wake of a cold front reinforced by a trough which passed through the south on Tuesday.

A severe weather warning was issued for parts of southeastern NSW, including Wollongong and Goulburn, for Tuesday afternoon.

'Winds of averaging 55 to 65km/h and with peak gusts reaching around 90km/h, are possible,' the bureau said.

A severe weather warning was issued for parts of southeastern NSW, including Wollongong and Goulburn, for Tuesday afternoon (woman pictured struggling in wind)

Winds reached nearly 70km/h at Sydney airport Tuesday morning and 83km/h at Mt Boyce in the Blue Mountains.

Despite the temperature in the city reaching 15.2C at 11.30am, windy conditions made it feel like just 5.7C.

There is also a severe weather warning in place for Tasmania as 100km/h winds are expected to slam its north coast Tuesday afternoon and into Wednesday.
Two men accused of being the last living members of the British ISIS terror cell dubbed 'The Beatles' smirked today as they were asked about Jihadi John and his executions.

El Shafee Elsheikh, 29, and Alexanda Kotey, 34, were captured in January and are fighting claims they were stripped of British citizenship in the hope they can avoid trial and the death penalty in the America.

Speaking to the BBC last night the extremists denied being part of ISIS' British-run execution squad who beheaded or crucified at least 27 hostages and tortured many more.

London-born Kotey, a former drug dealer who left his wife and two children in the UK, smirked when asked about Mohammed Emwazi, better known as Jihadi John.

He said: 'He was nicknamed that. But he's a friend of mine'.

Alexanda Kotey (right) smirked when asked about his 'friend' Jihadi John as he was interviewed with El Shafee Elsheikh (left), the last living members of the British ISIS terror cell dubbed 'The Beatles'

London-born Kotey, a former drug dealer who left his wife and two children in London, said he would not speak negatively about Jihadi John despite his despicable crimes

When confronted with the people he murdered including David Haines and Alan Henning, Kotey said: 'That's their way to choose to remember him. I chose to remember him differently'.

When asked if he condemned him, Kotey said: 'I took a position of not speaking of him at all in a negative way'.

Emwazi was eviscerated in a drone strike in 2015 after killing dozens of people, many of them in horrific films

El Shafee Elsheikh stayed silent through much of the interview with Quentin Somerville, refusing to say what he did for ISIS 'for legal reasons'.

But he did say it was not 'confirmed' they have lost their citizenship, adding: 'What makes the British government want a British citizen to be tried in America?'.

Along with Mohammed Emwazi - the killer nicknamed Jihadi John - and Aine Davis, Mr Kotey and Mr Elsheikh are thought to have been part of a group named after the '60s band because of their English accents.

Emwazi, who was killed in a US air strike in 2015, appeared in a number of videos in which captives, including British aid workers David Haines and Alan Henning and US journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff, were killed.

Davis was convicted of being a member of a terrorist organisation and jailed for seven-and-a-half years at a court in Silivri, Turkey, in May 2017.

Emwazi was eviscerated in a drone strike in 2015.

Last month, the Home Office said it had agreed to a 'short-term pause' of the mutual legal assistance (MLA) process with the US over Mr Kotey and Mr Elsheikh after a request from lawyers acting for one of the men.

British aid workers Alan Henning (left) and David Haines (right) were kept prisoner before being executed on camera

Emwazi, who was killed in a US air strike in 2015, appeared in a number of videos in which captives including US journalists James Foley (left) and Steven Sotloff (right), were killed

It came after the Home Secretary Sajid Javid said he wanted the two ISIS jihadists to stand trial on terror and murder charges in America, making it more likely the pair would be convicted in a court of law and potentially given the death penalty.

But the potential difficulties of successfully prosecuting Alexanda Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh meant the UK was reluctant to repatriate them.

The extremists had their UK citizenship taken away by the Home Office before they were captured to stop them re-entering the country.

In his letter to US Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Mr Javid said: 'In this instance we believe that a successful federal prosecution in the U.S. is more likely to be possible because of the differences in your statute book and the restrictions on challenges to the route by which defendants appear in the U.S. courts.

'The U.S. currently has additional charges for terrorism which are not available under UK criminal law, and those offences carry long sentences.'

Ministers are keenly aware that there will be public outrage if a murderous jihadist was released due to lack of evidence.

Prosecutor must be satisfied that there is sufficient evidence for a realistic prospect of conviction - tricky when the crimes have taken place in a foreign war zone.

Evidence or confessions gathered by the groups holding the IS fighters, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Free Syrian Army (FSA), could prove inadmissible as they have no recognised legal systems.

Kotey (R) and Sheikh (L) were part of a four-member kidnapping gang within the Islamic State group dubbed 'The Beatles' by their captives due to their heavy British accents

Unless there are statement from reliable eyewitnesses, it is likely these could be excluded as hearsay.

The captors wore masks in front of their hostages, some of whom are alive, meaning they could not be identified by sight.

If they had been tortured and mistreated by local forces, the case would be dropped and they would be set free on the streets of Britain.

One diplomat told The Daily Telegraph: 'Getting enough evidence to be confident of a conviction at home is difficult, so our preference is to leave them there.

'But the problem is the SDF does not have a recognised legal system. Basically it is a bit of hot potato that we want to make sure we're not left holding.'

Around 850 Britons are estimated to have left the country to join ISIS, with around half returning.

The Home Office disclosed last year that of the 400 or so foreign fighters who had come back from Syria and Iraq, only 54 have been convicted.

Some - those who could only be charged with membership of a terrorist group - were given relatively short sentences and have already been released.
Gillian Harvey (pictured with one-year-old Chloe) has revealed the terrifying moment she had to flee past dead bodies with her two young daughters when an Indonesian island was struck with a tremendous earthquake

A young mother has revealed the terrifying moment she had to flee past dead bodies with her two young daughters when an Indonesian island was struck with a tremendous earthquake.

Gillian Harvey arrived at the Gili Trawangan resort after taking two planes, two taxis and a boat and had only been at the tropical paradise for three hours with her husband Michael, one-year-old Chloe and four-year-old Sophie, before the 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit.

'The ground was shaking so bad I fell over with my daughter away from the trees and buildings as they were falling,' Ms Harvey told Daily Mail Australia.

The mother-of-two said hundreds of people were frantically grabbing life jackets at the beach Sunday night before they all rushed up 'a lot of steps' through debris, cracking buildings and corpses to the island's highest point after tsunami warnings.

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Ms Harvey arrived at a Gili Trawangan resort after taking two planes, two taxis and a boat and had only been at the tropical paradise for three hours before the 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit

The mother-of-two said hundreds of people were frantically grabbing life jackets at the beach Sunday night before rushing through debris, cracked buildings and corpses to the island's highest point after tsunami fears with her husband, baby and four-year-old Sophie (pictured)

'We headed for high ground, we had to pass all the injured bodies through all the fallen buildings to get there,' Ms Harvey said.

'There were hundreds of people up there.

'We just made a little bed for the kids and put them to sleep so they wouldn't be scared as there was lots of aftershocks and some were very strong - they lasted all night, we slept there until sunrise.'

The young family then made their way down the mountain to the beach where lots of small boats were arriving to take many people to safety and waited more than five hours.

The 30-year-old said a 'big ferry' arrived at Gili Island, which had no electricity and dwindling food and water supplies, and she pushed her way through the hundreds-strong crowd begging the boat staff to let her family on board.

'I pushed and begged him to take me with the kids, they were very scared but he had to take passengers with tickets,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

The young family slept on the mountain before racing back down and waiting on the crowded beach (pictured) for boats to rescue hundreds of locals and tourists

The Irish family from Perth said they waited on the beach for more than five hours before getting on a boat to safety (rubble pictured)

The 30-year-old said a 'big ferry' arrived at Gili Island and she pushed her way through the hundreds-strong crowd (pictured) begging the boat staff to let her family on board

The Irish woman said she thought they would be stuck on the island for days (pictured), especially when tiny boats were flooded with panicked locals and tourists.

'He just said "wait, wait" - I was so worried we would be stranded but I kept pulling his leg and he said "I promise I will help you".

'I kept begging him saying "please take the baby, she is scared".

'After about half-an-hour being squashed in the crowd, he made way for us to get on (the ferry).

'It was a long rocky journey back to Bali but we were so relieved to be off the island.'

The Irish woman said she thought they would be stuck on the island for days, especially when tiny boats were flooded with panicked locals and tourists.

'There were crazy people climbing into (the small boats), pushing people off. It wasn't safe for us to go with the kids on them, we just waiting and waited until a ferry type boat came,' she said.

Ms Harvey said the ride to safety was 'very scary' with 'big swells' tipping the boat on its side for the four hour journey.

The mother-of-two said she begged a boat staffer to let her young family on and after half-an-hour, the family were on the rocky boat (crowds pushing their way onto the boat pictured)

The mother-of-two (family pictured left) said they were able to find accommodation in Bali and now have to rethink their travel plans after losing many of their possessions when they fled the earthquake (right)

At least 98 people have been killed in the large quake as it hit the Indonesian island at about 6.45pm Sunday with hundreds still stranded (pictured) on the island only accessible by boat

The death toll is expected to rise to about 140 as rescuers are struggling to reach the worst-affected areas where houses, schools and mosques have been reduced to rubble (pictured)

The mother-of-two said they were able to find accommodation in Bali and now have to rethink their travel plans after losing many of their possessions when they fled the earthquake.

The young parents moved to Perth, Western Australia, from Ireland seven years ago and set off to the Indonesian island for a year of travelling the world and were only four months into their holiday when disaster struck.

At least 98 people have been killed in the large quake as it hit the Indonesian island at about 6.45pm Sunday with hundreds still stranded on the island only accessible by boat.

The death toll is expected to rise to about 140 as rescuers are struggling to reach the worst-affected areas where houses, schools and mosques have been reduced to rubble.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop reconfirmed on Tuesday no Australians have been killed or injured in the disaster and urged tourists to cooperate with local authorities.

Australian consular staff are also working alongside Indonesian authorities to ensure holiday-makers trapped on the Gili Islands are safely evacuated.
Written by: Diana West



Yes, if you have not seen it already, you should first watch the interview that these New Zealand pundits (above) are kicking around. Then again, if you are at all familiar with Lauren Southern and Stefan Molyneux, you already know that their discussion (under discussion) was crisp, bright, factual, thoughtful and sincere. Equipped with brains that have moving parts, they naturally overwhelmed their inert host, Patrick Gower, which Gower freely admits (also above). It was "scary," it was "surreal," he says, to encounter these two sentient and articulate beings, equipped with facts and knowledge, which, we now have proof, thanks to our intrepid duo, are verboten in New Zealand. There is simply no space for them to exist, literally or mentally.

I've watched this New Zealand roundtable several times now -- rubber-necking, really, at the ghastly spectacle of professional journalists smiling and laughing through way through a post mortem on the absence of free speech in their country. This, of course, is not happening in a vaccuum. As monopoly-media-platforms shut down Infowars' Alex Jones, thus setting parameters for the rest, as Julian Assange remains incommunicado, facing rumored US prosecution on espionage for epic work as an Internet publisher, as thoughtcrime and wrongthink are increasingly punished and outlawed, we are deep into a terrible age. What is most terrible of all, however, is how many, many people have been successfully groomed to embrace it.
A dismembered statue of Russian dictator Josef Stalin has been found at the bottom of a lake in the Ural Mountains more than six decades after it was thrown in.

The effigy was broken up and sunk into the murky water 62 years ago amid a purge of Stalinist icons by his Kremlin successor, Nikita Khrushchev.

It remained hidden at the bottom of the lake until recently, when the water was drained so that the dam could be repaired.

A statue of Communist dictator Josef Stalin has been uncovered at the bottom of a lake in the Ural Mountains, 62 years after it was sunk into the water amid a purge by his successor

The effigy used to take pride of place in a park in the town of Kusa but disappeared in 1956 following a speech denouncing Stalin by Nikita Khrushchev

Urban legend held that the statue had been sunk into a lake behind a dam, and the rumour was confirmed recently when the water was drained so the dam could be repaired

The statue of Stalin pictured in the park in Kusa shortly before it vanished

Locals at first thought the silt-covered sculpture might have been a discarded memorial to an unknown soldier.

But a museum in Chelyabinsk region confirmed it was a statue of the dictator which once in pride of place in a local park.

Curators had been aware of an urban legend which said the statue was carved up and dumped into the lake after Khrushchev's secret speech denouncing Stalin and his personality cult.

Viktoria Raspopova, curator of Kusinsky Museum, said: 'Now the legend is seen to be true.

Many monuments to Stalin vanished following a speech by Khrushchev (right) in 1956 in which he denounced the dictator and his cult of personality

Workers initially thought the statue was a monument to an unknown soldier, but curators from a nearby museum later confirmed the sculpture to be of Stalin

The statue was cut up before being dumped at various different points in the lake

'It is interesting that parts of the statue were found in different places, far from the shore where he stood,' she said.

'Perhaps it was taken out in winter and dropped into ice holes - in those years the frosts were very strong.'

Khrushchev and Stalin Khrushchev was one of Stalin's closest advisers at the time of his death in 1953, and emerged victorious from the power struggle that ensued, becoming First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. Three years later, Khrushchev gave a speech during a closed session of the 20th Congress of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in which he denounced Stalin. The speech formed the nucleus of a wider campaign to destroy the image of the Second World War leader and the cult of personality he had built up. While the speech was not printed in full in Russia until 1989, it was widely circulated among party officials and members and harmed his reputation. Following the speech, statues of the leader were torn down across the USSR. Advertisement

Local photographer Andrey Parfenov said: 'Part of the monument was discovered by my daughter Polina.

'At first I thought it was a statue of an unknown soldier.

'We called the museum, and they then said it must be Stalin.'

The moustachioed monster is now in the possession of a group called The Essence of Time which preserves Russian relics.

'The monument was broken and dismembered,' said activist Stanislav Stafeev.

'Now we are looking for the missing fragments - the right arm and a fragment of his hip. The feet are missing too - most likely, they left with the pedestal.'

They are hoping a lack of rain will dry the pond more quickly and Stalin's missing parts will soon emerge.

Stafeev wants a local vote on whether Stalin should rise again and be placed next to a forlorn-looking statue of Lenin which still stands in Kusa's main square.

'We will demand a referendum,' he said.

'Lenin is in a deplorable state. If we restore both Stalin and Lenin, why not to show them off in the square together?'

Local officials say a more appropriate place for the effigy is in the local museum.

The park where Stalin once stood is now neglected.

Workers have been able to retrieve several different parts of the statue, but Stalin's feet and part of one arm are still missing

The statue's legs are loaded into the back of a truck after being pulled from the dry lake bed
A coin hailed as Australia's rarest is going on sale for $500,000 at auction for only the third time in history.

The 'Hannibal Head' holey dollar is set to fetch the hefty price tag when it goes on sale at currency house Coinworks in Melbourne.

Only 300 are known to still be in existence and the coin up for sale is so valuable because only two coins carried the punched-out image of Ferdinand VII of Spain on it.

The holey dollar coin was minted in Peru in 1813 after an order by NSW governor Lachlan Macquarie to get more currency into Australian circulation

The New South Wales Holey Dollar owes its existence to Governor Lachlan Macquarie's decision to import 40,000 dollars from Spain.

The decision to import the currency came about after most of the colony's currency left the country in visiting merchant ships.

Colonial records show 39,910 holey dollars were made, and director Belinda Downie of Coinworks said the coin's place in history is appreciated not only by collectors.

She said: 'Rare coins are a tangible connection to history and coins such as Holey Dollars embody the story of the time.'

King Ferdinand remained the ruler whose face appeared on the coin despite the fact that Napoleon Bonaparte's brother Joseph was made king of Spain in 1808.

Joseph Bonaparte was an extremely unpopular ruler in Spain, with the presence of French troops on Spanish soil deemed to be an insult.

Bonaparte's very presence as Spanish ruler only came about after his brother tricked King Ferdinand to meet him in France - where he was forced to renounce his crown.
Two toddlers had to be rescued when they were left in a hot car alone in a supermarket car park in 80F (26C) degree heat.

Members of the public rushed to free the children, aged one and two, from the vehicle that was parked at a Morrison's store in Reigate, Surrey on Monday.

It is not known how long the children had been in the car or if there were any windows open as temperatures in the area had reached sweltering conditions.

Officers say the parent was a doctor and Surrey Police are now investigating.

Morrison's shoppers rushed to rescue two children left alone in a hot car in Reigate, Surrey on Monday. They managed to open the car's door and gave them water, as police are now investigating the incident. Pictured: File photo of Morrison's car park

It is not known how long the children had been in the car or if there were any windows open as temperatures in the area had reached almost 81F (27C) by midday

The Reigate and Banstead neighbourhood policing team of Surrey Police posted about the incident on their Facebook page.

The force wrote: 'I can't believe I'm posting this.......

'At about midday today in Morrison's car park in #Reigate we were called following concerns for 2 children found in a car alone!

'Thankfully members of the public acted fast and managed to open the doors and remove the 2 children, giving them water and cooling them down. The children were only 1 and 2 years old!

'Whilst we hope this can be considered a one off incident it doesn't distract from the fact that the potential risk is as serious as they come.. The outcome of this incident could have been much much worse had action not have been taken.'

More than a thousand people reacted to the page with more than 500 sharing it, many horrified that a parent would leave such young children alone in a car

The post continued: 'This coupled with the fact that the 'parent' was a doctor and the act of leaving pets and children in hot vehicles is all over the public domain in the media etc, it is worrying that this incident occurred in the first place.

'We can't keep reiterating this message enough.

'DO NOT LEAVE KIDS AND PETS IN HOT CARS!!!'

More than a thousand people reacted to the page with more than 500 sharing it.

Amanda Inglis commented: 'Can people not leave children alone in cars regardless of the temperature. They need to be supervised. Being locked in a car isn't safe. Why are people so stupid?'

Jacqueline Burrell said: 'Outrageous, no words can describe how foolish parents, people who are in charge of caring for our children and animals can be so foolish. As for the doctor what can I say?'

Reigate and Banstead Beat (Surrey Police) added: 'The matter is being investigated and we refer all incidents like this to our partner agencies as well.'
Donald Trump boasted early Tuesday morning that he had snapped 'biting sanctions' back on Iran as he reset the Middle East's most vexing potential hazard.

'The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level,' the president tweeted.

'Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!' he added.

Iran's president slammed the United States after the White House re-imposed a wave of tough, unilateral sanctions at midnight.

The U.S. brought back into effect harsh penalties that had been lifted under Barack Obama's multi-party nuclear agreement that Trump abandoned in May.

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Donald Trump snapped bace unilateral sanctions against Iran at midnight, and tweeted that nations will have to choose between doing business with the Islamist nation and trading with the United States

President Hassan Rouhani described the measures as 'psychological warfare' aimed at sowing division among Iranians

'I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!' Trump tweeted

Trump said he was open to reaching a more comprehensive deal with Iran 'that addresses the full range of the regime's malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism.'

But Iranian President Hassan Rouhani described the measures as 'psychological warfare' aimed at sowing division among Iranians.

'If you're an enemy and you stab the other person with a knife, and then you say you want negotiations, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife,' the Iranian leader said in an interview on state television.

'They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation,' Rouhani said. 'Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense.'

The first of two rounds of US sanctions kicked in overnight, targeting Iran's access to US banknotes and key industries, including cars and carpets.

Iranians are already seeing the effects of the sanctions, with Iran's rial currency losing around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the 2015 nuclear accord.

Many large European firms are leaving Iran for fear of US penalties, and Trump warned of 'severe consequences' against firms and individuals that continued to do business with Iran.

The impact of the return of sanctions has ramped up tensions inside Iran, which has seen days of protests and strikes in multiple towns and cities over water shortages, high prices and wider anger at the political system.

Severe reporting restrictions have made it impossible to verify the swirl of claims coming through social media.

Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.

President Trump said Monday that he will fully enforce sanctions due to be reimposed against Iran as he signed an executive order announcing his intent. Pictured, Trump signing a proclamation withdrawing the US from the Iran nuclear agreement in May at the White House

He blasted the agreement yet again Monday, calling it a 'horrible, one-sided deal (that) failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb.'

The unilateral withdrawal came despite other parties to the agreement - Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the EU - pleading with Trump not to abandon the pact.

Washington's so-called 'snapback' sanctions were reinstated against Tehran at 12.01am EDT on Tuesday. A second wave will go into effect on November 4.

In an executive order Monday, Trump said the sanctions seek to pile financial pressure on Tehran to force a 'comprehensive and lasting solution' to Iranian threats, including its development of missiles and regional 'malign' activities.

'The United States is fully committed to enforcing all of our sanctions, and we will work closely with nations conducting business with Iran to ensure complete compliance,' Trump said in a statement that trashed the Iran nuclear pact as a 'horrible' and 'one-sided' agreement.

'Individuals or entities that fail to wind down activities with Iran risk severe consequences.'

The president signed the executive order from his Bedminster, New Jersey, property.

He did so behind closed doors with reporters miles away after the White House told journalists covering him that he would not make any public appearances that day.

Instead, the president issued a statement that labeled the Iran nuclear pact 'a horrible, one-sided deal, failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb, and it threw a lifeline of cash to a murderous dictatorship that has continued to spread bloodshed, violence, and chaos.'

Trump withdrew the United States from the Iran deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, on May 8, starting a ticking clock for the sanctions on Tehran to be reimposed.

He has repeatedly denounced the deal reached under his White House predecessor, Barack Obama, as one-sided in Iran's favor. He promised as a candidate to tear it up.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, speaking with reporters returning with him from an Asian trip, said Monday morning that sanctions are 'an important part of our efforts to push back against Iranian malign activity' and the U.S. would enforce the restrictions on certain Iranian goods.

Starting this week, Washington will bring back sanctions on Iran's purchases of U.S. dollars, its trade in gold and precious metals, and its dealings with metals, coal and industrial-related software.

The United States has told other countries they must halt imports of Iranian oil starting in early November or face U.S. financial measures.

President Trump urged all nations and corporations 'to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation' in the statement that served as a substitute for on-camera remarks.

His executive order immediately targets Iran's automotive, energy, shipbuilding and precious metals industries and begins a wind-down period for the acquisition, sale and transport of petroleum and petrochemical products.

The directive states that the punishments are intended to 'advance the goal of applying financial pressure on the Iranian regime in pursuit of a comprehensive and lasting solution to the full range of the threats posed by Iran' which include its missile development and support for terror groups as well as a 'network and campaign of regional aggression' and 'malign activities of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its surrogates.'

Trump has forcefully denounced Iran's 'DEMENTED WORDS OF VIOLENCE & DEATH' toward the U.S. and at the end of July warned Iran not to threaten the United States or plan to 'SUFFER CONSEQUENCES THE LIKE OF WHICH FEW THROUGHOUT HISTORY HAVE EVER SUFFERED BEFORE.'

That was after Rouhani warned the US that war with Iran 'is the mother of all wars' and said Trump stop 'playing with the lion's tail,' with the stark pledge of or 'else you will regret it.'

Still, the Trump administration has said the president would be willing to negotiate a new deal with Tehran under the right conditions. However, Iran should not expect relief sanctions in the interim.

The president said in a weekend tweet that the ball is in Tehran's court.

'I will meet, or not meet, it doesn't matter - it is up to them!' he said of a potential meeting with Rouhani.

National Security Advisor John Bolton said Monday that Trump stands by his offer and it is Tehran that is refusing to meet with the American president.

'I think he was very serious about it. If the Ayatollah's want to get out from under the squeeze, they should come and sit down. The pressure will not relent while the negotiations go on, much as in the case of the maximum pressure campaign against North Korea,' Bolton said.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Monday that Trump has 'isolated' America with his position on sanctions. The United States' other negotiating partners, including France and Germany, remain in the deal.

'Of course, American bullying and political pressures may cause some disruption, but the fact is that in the current world, America is isolated,' said Zarif, who played a lead role in 2015 talks, as he downplayed the hit his country will endure as a result of the sanctions.

EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini in a statement jointly signed with the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany, shared her dismay at Trump's order that will seal the break down of the deal on Monday.

'We deeply regret the re-imposition of sanctions by the U.S.' the statement said. 'We are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran.'

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif (pictured) said it was hard to imagine negotiating with the man who tore up an agreement on which Iran and world powers had spent the 'longest hours in negotiating history' as he claimed that America is 'isolated' as a result of the sanctions implimentation

Rouhani said last week that Trump's repudiation of the deal was illegal and Iran would not yield to Washington's renewed campaign to strangle Iran's vital oil exports.

Iran will ease foreign exchange rules, state TV reported on Sunday, in a bid to halt a collapse of the rial currency, which has lost half its value since April due to fears about the return of the sanctions.

Iran has seen days of protests and strikes directed at the country's iron-fisted rulers.

A senior administration official told reporters during a Monday morning call that the blame 'lies with the Iranian regime' that has squandered the country's' resources and oppressed its people.

Officials on the call would not endorse regime change in Tehran and refused to say that the inherent purpose of the United States' punishing actions was to force the collapse the Iranian economy.

A senior official hinted at the end game, however, telling press: 'We are very intent on using these financial sanctions to great economic leverage.'

Referring to the sporadic protests in Iranian cities in his Monday avail, Pompeo said: 'The Iranian people are not happy - not with the Americans but with their own leadership. They're unhappy with the failure of their own leadership to deliver the economic promises that their leadership promised them.'

Pompeo said the United States wants 'the Iranian people to have a strong voice of who their leadership will be,' although he stopped short of calling for regime change in Tehran.

He later said in a message on Twitter that the United States was 'deeply concerned about reports of Iranian regimes violence against unarmed citizens' and urged respect for human rights.

Protests broke out on Sunday for a sixth night in Iranian cities, including Kazeroon in the south, according to social media. Authorities reported the first fatality among protesters, with the shooting of a man in Karaj, west of Tehran. But they denied security forces were involved, Iranian news agencies reported

The protests have often begun with slogans against the high cost of living and alleged financial corruption but quickly turned into anti-government rallies.

Pompeo said it would require 'enormous change' by Iran to get out from under renewed U.S. sanctions. 'They have got to behave like a normal country,' he said, describing Iranian leaders as 'bad actors.'

He alluded to Trump's suggestion last week of the potential for future negotiations with Tehran, a notion that senior Iranian officials quickly rejected.

'We are happy to talk if there's an arrangement that is appropriate, that could lead to a good outcome,' he said. 'Perhaps that will be the path the Iranians choose to move down with. Theres no evidence to date of their desire to change to change their behavior.'
This is the moment a bright yellow 260,000 Ferrari 812 Superfast was seized after parking on a single yellow line just days after it arrived in the UK.

The vehicle was seized by the council after its owner illegally parked it near luxury goods store Harrods in Knightsbridge, west London.

The owner was also fined 130 for the offence of 'parking in a restricted street during prescribed hours' by enforcement officers working for Kensington and Chelsea Borough Council.

This is the moment a bright yellow 260,000 Ferrari 812 Superfast was seized after parking on a single yellow line in Knightsbridge - just days after it arrived in the UK

The supercar has been sighted in Cannes, Paris and, most recently, Monaco over the last few weeks according to Auto Gespot, a luxury car spotting site.

Ferrari claims that the 812 Superfast, which launched in 2017, has a top speed of 211 mph with a 062 mph acceleration time of 2.9 seconds. The 812 Superfast is the first Ferrari equipped with electronic power steering.

The design is inspired by the F12berlinetta, though it has been updated with full LED headlamps, air vents on the bonnet, quad circular tail lights and a body-colored rear diffuser.

If you drive in London, you're at more risk of a parking fine than anywhere else in the UK, with the capital raking in more than 24million from fines in just three months.

The owner was also fined 130 for the offence of 'parking in a restricted street during prescribed hours' by officers working for Kensington and Chelsea Borough Council

Ferrari claims that the 812 Superfast, which launched in 2017, has a top speed of 211 mph with a 062 mph acceleration time of 2.9 seconds

If you drive in London, you're at more risk of a parking fine than anywhere else in the UK, with the capital raking in more than 24million from fines in just three months

Across 10 of its 32 boroughs, 549,009 Parking Charge Notices were issued from July to September 2017, with traffic wardens pouncing as quickly as 12 minutes after tickets ran out.

Almost a quarter - 23 per cent - of the fines were slapped on cars parked near West End theatres in Shaftesbury Avenue and Great Windmill Street.

In 2016 a Lamborghini driver told MailOnline it was cheaper to pay fines for parking on double yellow lines than risking his 400,000 supercar in public car park
Police are hunting a suspected thief who broke into a home wearing a fancy dress-style burglar outfit of a hat, gloves - and most importantly a stripey jumper.

The man dressed just like childrens book character Burglar Bill was caught on camera inside a house.

Police released the video in the hope it would help catch the man, who broke into a home in Bath, Somerset.

He seemed to have dressed the part, wearing a navy t-shirt with white stripes, and a black peaked cap, just like Burglar Bill, the main character in Janet and Allan Ahlbergs eponymous childrens book.

The burglar also wore black jeans and blue gloves as he crossed the front room of the house in the Lansdown area of the the UNESCO Heritage city on July 28.

Police are hunting this suspected thief who broke into a home wearing a fancy dress-style burglar outfit of a hat, gloves - and a stripey jumper

Children's favourite: Burglar Bill is 'a very naughty man' until he accidentally steals a baby who helps him turn over a new - and law-abiding - leaf

The man dressed just like childrens book character Burglar Bill was caught on camera inside a house in Bath, Somerset

This is not the first time police have sought a Burglar Bill lookalike after a real-life thief adopted the name when he popped into a Waitrose store.

The thief and an accomplice - who was dressed in a far less eye-catching black hooded top - were captured stealing two cameras and Xbox controllers from Waitrose in Southend, Essex, on Christmas Eve.

One staff member at Waitrose commented: 'It is quite comical to see the similarity between this guy and Burglar Bill.

'You would have thought he would wear something less conspicuous when breaking into the store.'

MailOnline contacted Essex police to enquire whether the suspect in Essex was caught.

The burglar also wore black jeans and blue gloves as he crossed the front room of the house in the Lansdown area of the the UNESCO Heritage city on July 28

The children's book, published by Penguin from 1977 to 1999, followed Bill as he sneaked down dimly-lit streets, climbed up walls and crept into houses through unlocked windows to steal food and goods completely undetected.

His life is then turned around when he accidentally steals a baby who helps him turn over a new leaf.

The book remains a children's classic and can still be ordered online.

This is not the first time police have sought a Burglar Bill lookalike after a real-life thief adopted the name when he popped into a Waitrose store in Southend, Essex, on Christmas Eve 2012
A furious customer has slammed a cafe for charging him 43 (38) for two cups of coffee and two bottles of water.

Juan Carlos Bustamente, 62, was shocked when he got the bill at Caffe Lavena in St Mark's Square, Venice.

He was charged the equivalent of 10.30 for each cup of coffee and 8.90 for each 25cl bottle of water.

Juan Carlos Bustamente (pictured), 62, was shocked when he got the bill at Caffe Lavena at Venice's St Mark's Square

Mr Bustamente shared his receipt (pictured) on Facebook and said: 'I don't know what you think but 43 euros for two coffees and two bottles of water!'

Mr Bustamente, from Santiago, Chile, shared his receipt on Facebook and wrote: 'I don't know what you think but 43 euros for two coffees and two bottles of water!'

His post went viral in Italy, with several commenters branding the prices a 'robbery.'

A spokesman for the Caffe Lavena said that customers paid a premium to sit outside on St Mark's Square.

He said: 'People get annoyed when the bill arrives because they do not listen when we hand them the menu even though it states clearly enough that prices are higher to sit outside. They just wave us away and if we insist they get irritated.

This is the Caffe Lavena in St Mark's Square, Venice, situated in the one of the most popular tourist spots in the world

'If they just want a coffee they can have it at the bar for 1.25 EUR. If they want to sit outside and enjoy the music of the orchestra, look at the bell tower and the Basilica of St Mark's, then they are paying for an entirely different experience.'

This is not the first time tourists have felt ripped off in Italy.

In 2013, a British family complained over being charged 13.50 each for three ice creams in Rome.

The Antica Roma gelataria charged brothers Roger and Stephen Bannister and their wives the sum when they stopped at the outlet near the city's famous Spanish Steps.

When the unlucky tourists complained, they were told the cost would have been double if they had eaten their gelatos at a table instead of standing up. One Rome councillor called the prices a scandal.

In response the firm took out a full page advert titled 'the price is right,' in which it justified the cost of its products.

Last month, a group of tourists were shocked after they were forced to pay 46 for four soft drinks in a bar in the resort town of San Antonio on the Spanish party island of Ibiza.

Last month, a group of tourists were shocked after they were forced to pay 52 euros (46) for four soft drinks in a bar in the resort town of San Antonio on the Spanish party island of Ibiza
A grieving family berated the man who ripped out a roadside tribute to a motorcyclist near the spot where he was killed.

Cathy Stowe put up the two crosses after her brother-in-law James Stowe died in a crash at the corner of Highway 61 and Coon Hunters Road near Blue Grass, Iowa.

The 66-year-old died in May and the crosses stood since soon after until they were recently taken down.

Cathy Stowe (right) argued with Howard Spoon (left) after he admitted to removing a roadside memorial to her brother-in-law where he was killed in a motorbike crash

Cathy Stowe put up the two crosses near where her brother-in-law James Stowe died

Police told her someone deliberately removed them on the weekend and dropped them off at the station, where she could retrieve them.

Just as she was showing WQAD 8 the crash site, Howard Spoon walked over and admitted he was the one who did it.

The Blue Grass local said the memorial was a distraction to drivers at the intersection so it pulled out the crosses himself.

'You hurt a lot of people,' Ms Stowe said as she confronted him on camera on Monday.

James Stowe died in a crash at the corner of Highway 61 and Coon Hunters Road near Blue Grass, Iowa, in May

The intersection on Monday after the memorial was removed

She explained that though local authorities don't allow roadside crosses, they don't remove them so she was able to put them up.

'They said they're not going to say no but they're not going to say yes so do what I need to do,' she said.

'But you don't have permission,' Mr Spoon said, to which she countered 'you don't have to have permission'.

Mr Spoon said he didn't regret removing the memorial, and would take the crosses down again if the Stowe family put them back up.

Ms Stowe and her family retrieved the two crosses from the local police station, where Mr Spoon dropped them off, vowing to put them back up

Mr Spoon said he didn't regret removing the memorial, and would take the crosses down again if the Stowe family put them back up

'Their heartfelt emotions are totally understood, but I don't think if they really thought about if they would put up a monument to distract people from paying attention to this intersection,' he said.

Ms Stowe didn't agree and said he had no right to interfere with her family's grief.

'I'll fight for [James] til the end. It was very mean, very disruptive in our family, very destructive... he just don't have a heart,' she said.
A paedophile hunter who helped bring 28 sex offenders to justice has had his life ruined as 'perverts' sought revenge by portraying him as a paedophile online.

Josh Blakely, from West Kensington, London, is unable to get a job or go on dates and is too afraid to leave his house for fear of being attacked if someone recognises him from the six-month online hate campaign.

The 38-year-old believes members of a paedophile ring who feared he would target them stole his images and created dozens of fake social media accounts, videos and websites in which he was wrongly painted as a sex offender.

The trolls even doctored photos of the vigilante to make it look like he had publicly demonstrated in London in a campaign to reduce the age of consent to just six.

Despite reporting the profiles and web pages to police and social media companies, many remain online and new ones pop up daily - leaving Josh fearing for his safety.

Josh Blakely, from London, is unable to get a job or go on dates and is too afraid to leave his house for fear of being attacked if someone recognises him from a six-month online hate campaign that accuses him of being a paedophile

The trolls even doctored photos of the vigilante to make it look like he had publicly demonstrated in London in a campaign to reduce the age of consent to just six

After two and a half years operating as a prominent paedophile hunter, often under the name Public Justice PHL, Josh has been forced to quit his work as he believes he has 'left himself open' for retaliation.

Now Josh fears the paedophiles' next step of the smear campaign will be to use a fake profile of his to groom children and then deliberately report it to police.

Josh said: 'I fear for my own safety now. If someone recognises me from what they have done I could be attacked by people thinking I am a sex offender.

'People attack sex offenders in their society and people might think I am a sex offender if they see this online - despite me never being convicted of a sex offence in my life.

'It's had a huge impact on me and my life. If you Google my name now, my name comes up straight away as a sex offender.

'It's taken my identity away from me, it's taken my freedom away from me.

'I can't get employment because employers won't want to employ someone that everywhere says is a sex offender.

'The first thing a company does is Google your name when you apply for a job. Even though I can prove that I am not a sex offender, it doesn't stop them from thinking it.

'In the end I had to quit my role as a hunter as my personal life was coming to a halt because of these trolls.

'They were effectively holding me to ransom on social media and they still continue to do so today. They control my life - I have no life as I'm seen as a sex offender.'

After two and a half years operating as a prominent paedophile hunter, often under the name Public Justice PHL, Josh has been forced to quit his work as he believes he has 'left himself open' for retaliation

They even mocked up a Wild West 'wanted' style poster with his face on it, branding him a 'dangerous nonce' with a 50,000 reward

Facebook pages were set-up using his images and describing him as a paedophile - though they were quickly removed when he reported them.

However the trolls learned that by changing his name slightly then it would become more difficult for Josh to have the pages removed.

They soon followed with fake Twitter profiles, YouTube and LiveLeak videos and WordPress blogs describing him as a 'nonce' and a member of a 'child porn paedophile ring'.

An image of Josh campaigning in London doctored his placard to read: 'I Josh Blakely demand Govt to lower the legal age of consent to six years old for boy and girls.

'Paedophiles are people! #sexwithkids'

They even mocked up a Wild West 'wanted' style poster with his face on it, branding him a 'dangerous nonce' with a 50,000 reward.

Another blog erroneously attributed to Josh, which is still online, is entitled 'why paedophilia is for me' and cites reasons such as 'no one fancies me'.

Josh said: 'I feel I know who it is - it is paedophiles who we have tried to expose or who feel threatened by the work we did.

Now Josh fears the paedophiles' next step of the smear campaign will be to use a fake profile of his to groom children and then deliberately report it to police

Trolls learned that by changing his name slightly then it would become more difficult for Josh to have the pages removed

Facebook pages were set-up using his images and describing him as a paedophile - though they were quickly removed when he reported them

'I became well known and respect in the community through the good work we were doing catching these paedophiles.

'However looking back, I think I left myself open to threat without realising it. I opened myself up to too much.

'I never did it to get famous and never got paid for what I did. I did it purely to ensure these kids got justice and to make sure these people weren't out there doing this.

'I have not committed any criminal offence. All I have done is protected children from being abused and I'm not ashamed of that.

'It feels wrong then that I should be punished for it in this way.

'People in the paedophile community are punishing me because I protected children - and that doesn't make any sense to me.'

Josh has made numerous reports to police over the last five months but claims they have failed to treat his situation seriously.

He also claims WordPress told him he would need a US court order to have webpages branding him a paedophile removed and that Google refused to take them out of their search engines as it was 'in the public interest'.

They soon followed with fake Twitter profiles, YouTube and LiveLeak videos and WordPress blogs describing him as a 'nonce' and a member of a 'child porn paedophile ring'

Josh said: 'I fear for my own safety now. If someone recognises me from what they have done I could be attacked by people thinking I am a sex offender'

Josh, who previously did factory work but now fears he will be unable to get a job due to the smear campaign, said: 'I applied for Google's 'right to be forgotten' under EU laws but they said due to 'public interest' they couldn't remove some of the content.

'They presumably think I am a sex offender.

'I think this is outrageous. It allows me to be made out to be a sex offender.

'Even when one of them is deleted, more pop up. I've had tons removed but they will be at it again a week later.

'Whoever is doing it is very clever and has many different devices and is doing it across many platforms. They clearly have some real technology they are using to do it.

'It's like social media is responsible for it as well. They are allowing these things to remain up there.

'Police don't take it very seriously when I have gone into the police station to hand in the evidence to them.'

However he fears the next step is likely to be even nastier and that the trolls will try to set him up as a paedophile and make it look like he was trying to groom a child.

Josh said: 'I applied for Google's 'right to be forgotten' under EU laws but they said due to 'public interest' they couldn't remove some of the content'

Josh said: 'They have taken serious allegations to the police about the hunting community to try to get people arrested.

'It's very dangerous. They even posted up my home address and made threats to come and get me.

'I am waiting for them to use my personal image to set me up and potentially use my 'profile' to pretend to be me to groom a child.

'Then they would use that evidence to set me up for an arrest and possible imprisonment for something I've never done. That is really scary for me.

'When I was walking my dog I panicked that someone was following me. I have this fear that someone will recognise me and think I am a sex offender and be attacked or even killed.

'I don't even go out and socialise anymore, I am single and shut myself in my own home like a prisoner.'

A Met Police spokesperson said: '[We] can confirm officers from Hammersmith and Fulham are investigating allegations of malicious communications via social media.

'The allegations were reported by the male victim on 25 Feb 2018. A number of inquiries are currently ongoing.

'The victim has been updated as to the status of the investigation and advised that allegations of this nature can take time to investigate. There have been no arrests.'

Google confirmed they are in contact with Josh and that they have already taken action on some of the content flagged to them

Josh said: 'It's very dangerous. They even posted up my home address and made threats to come and get me'

Google confirmed they are in contact with Josh and that they have already taken action on some of the content flagged to them.

They claimed they had advised Josh that he can request a legal removal for defamation under UK law.

A Facebook spokesperson said: 'There is no place for bullying or harassment on Facebook, which is why we have spent over a decade introducing new features and tools to keep people safe and have a positive experience.

'We encourage Mr Blakely to continue reporting any incidents of trolling so we can remove content which violate our standards, as we have done previously.'

Despite Josh claiming he had reported the abuse to LiveLeak, a spokesperson said they could not find any reports in their system from Josh but have subsequently removed one of the offending videos.

A Twitter spokesperson said: 'We don't comment on individual accounts for privacy and security reasons.'

They then pointed out that users can 'block, mute, and report at any time'.

WordPress were contacted for comment but failed to respond.
Israel has 'welcomed' the assassination of a top Syrian weapon expert amid claims Mossad was behind the car bombing at the weekend.

Aziz Asbar, who was working to update Syria's missile stockpile and make it more accurate, died in an explosion in the city of Masyaf on Saturday.

Israel has denied any involvement in Asbar's death, though Intelligence and Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz said he 'welcomed' the news.

Yisrael Katz (left) welcomed the news that Syrian rocket scientist Aziz Asbar had been killed by a car bomb at the weekend, though denied that Israel was responsible

Katz declined to comment on reports his government was responsible.

'We don't of course comment on reports of this kind and I'm not going to comment now,' Katz told Israeli army radio.

'I can say that assuming the details of this man's activities are correct and he was engaged in developing chemical weapons and longer-range missiles capable of hitting Israel, I certainly welcome his demise.'

Katz spoke out as an anonymous official who was briefed on Asbar's death told The New York Times that Israel was responsible.

The official, who works for a Middle Eastern intelligence agency, said Israel had been monitoring Asbar for years.

The Israelis believed Asbar led a secret unit called Sector 4 which aimed to develop precision-guided missiles in Syria which could threaten Israel.

Asbar was believed to have worked at the Scientific Studies and Research Center in Hama province, trying to develop guided missiles (pictured after it was destroyed by US airstrikes in April this year)

As part of his work, Asbar is believed to have worked alongside Major General Qassim Suleimani, commander of Iran's Quds Force.

Asbar was also working on a solid-fuel plant for missiles and rockets, a safer alternative to liquid fuel.

An Israeli air strike also targeted Asbar's research centre on July 22, Syrian state media reported. An Israeli military spokesman declined to comment.

A September 2017 strike caused damage to the centre, when fire broke out at a warehouse where missiles were being stored, observers said.

Israel has carried out numerous strikes inside Syria since 2017, targeting government forces and their allies from Iran and Lebanese Shiite militant group Hezbollah.

Early 2017 marked the low point for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his country's now seven-year-old civil war with his authority confined to just 17 percent of national territory.

A succession of victories since then over both the Islamic State group and various rebel factions has extended government control to nearly two-thirds of the country.
A vomiting French Bulldog left sweltering in a car in 95F heat had to be rescued by beach-goers who were then confronted by its unapologetic owner who turned up four hours later.

A group surrounded the vehicle at Frensham Ponds, Surrey, and fearing the animal might die inside they smashed the driver's side window with a hammer and pulled it out on Sunday afternoon.

The group had attempted to feed water to the bulldog through the window but eventually decided to smash their way in before handing the dehydrated pet over to the park ranger's office.

The owner then arrived on the scene four hours later and appears unapologetic as he claims extraordinarily that the dog is 'OK'.

The French Bulldog (pictured) was found panting and vomiting. Rescuers can be heard telling the owner of the dog they waited for four hours for him to return to his vehicle

The woman videoing can be heard saying: 'It's not nice to threaten people that have just saved your dog's life' to the owner who appears unapologetic

The man becomes increasingly irate and even begins to jeer the group and dances to the camera and brings his face close to it in a sarcastic manner.

The woman videoing can be heard saying: 'It's not nice to threaten people that have just saved your dog's life.'

An onlooker said: 'No thanks was given, just abuse and threatening behaviour.'

The bulldog's owner (pictured) is seen taunting the camera as he apologetically says his dog is 'OK' despite it panting and throwing up

The man sarcastically claps the rescuers efforts and remonstrates with the group as he becomes increasingly irate. The bulldog was eventually returned to the man on police advice

Park rangers handed the dog back over to the exacerbated man on the advice of police.

The shocking footage comes as people continue to ignore warnings about leaving their dogs in hot vehicles.

Police in Bromley had to smash a window to save a dog in 90F heat yesterday, branding the act of leaving an animal in a hot car 'unacceptable.'

This dog in Bromley was freed by police who smashed the window of a baking hot car. Over 4000 people have rung into the animal protection society during the current heatwave

Police broke a window (pictured) to free a dog in Petts Wood in Bromley after they found it struggling in the baking hot vehicle

Over 4,000 people have rung into the animal protection society in the current heatwave to report animals struggling in the heat.

Holly Barber, Dogs Die in Hot Cars campaign manager for the RSPCA, said: 'I simply don't understand how people can possibly think it's acceptable to leave a dog inside a parked car when temperatures outside are topping 30C.

'It's absolutely baffling that people who believe they are loving pet owners can even consider this as being acceptable.

Police in Bromley, Greater London branded the act of leaving pets in hot cars as 'unacceptable' as they were forced to smash a car window to free a dog (pictured) in 90F heat

The RSPCA have issued several warnings as pets continue to die in the sweltering heatwave.

They said: 'Many people still believe that its OK to leave a dog in a car on a warm day if the windows are left open or theyre parked in the shade, but the truth is, its still a very dangerous situation for the dog.

'A car can become as hot as an oven very quickly, even when it doesnt feel that warm. When its 22 degrees, in a car it can reach an unbearable 47 degrees within the hour.'

Morrison's shoppers were called into action when two children, aged one and two, were left alone in a hot car in Reigate, Surrey on Monday.

They managed to open the car's door and give the children water, as police are now investigating the incident

It is not known how long the children had been in the car or if there were any windows open as temperatures in the area had reached sweltering conditions.
Two children with cancer aged nine and 11 became the youngest in the world to be euthanised, it has been revealed.

They were given lethal injections in Belgium under the world's only law that allows children of any age to choose to end their lives.

The Belgian laws say children must have a terminal disease and be suffering unbearably.

They must also be judged to have the mental capacity to make the decision and have parental consent.

Two children aged nine and 11 became the youngest in the world to be euthanised, it has been revealed

Supporters of the law say it is cruel to force a child to suffer against their will while opponents say children are too young to make the decision to die.

A report on 17 July revealed three children were among thousands of people to have died under Belgium's radical euthanasia regime between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2017.

The report did not reveal the children's ages but a Belgian official has now disclosed those details to the Washington Post. The third child was 17.

The annual number of euthanasia cases across all age groups has multiplied almost fivefold in ten years in Belgium.

The practice was legalised in the country in 2003  a year after the Netherlands, where the minimum age is 12. In 2007, 495 Belgians chose to die this way.

Latest figures reveal there were 2,028 such deaths in the country in 2016 and 2,309 in 2017  a 14 per cent year-on-year rise.

Two of the children died in 2016 and one in 2017. Their names were not given but all were understood to have had cancer.

Three children were euthanised under the world's only law that allows children of any age to choose to be put to death

While the Netherlands does not allow children under 12 to choose death, Belgium's decision in 2014 to extend its euthanasia laws to all minors provoked outrage in the country and internationally.

Many religious groups argued the country's laws 'trivalise' death and went a 'step too far'.

Of the 4,337 to opt for assisted dying in Belgium in 2016/17, most were cancer patients.

However 710 were largely elderly people who suffered from a series of comparatively minor conditions such as blindness and incontinence.

A further 77 chose to die because of unbearable psychiatric suffering. A further 19 young people between 18 and 29 decided to end their lives.

Crossbench peer Lord Carlile, co-chairman of Living and Dying Well, a parliamentary group opposed to euthanasia, said he was 'profoundly shocked' both by the deaths of the children and by the soaring number of euthanasia cases.

He added: 'No parent or public authority has the power to take away the life of anyone who is a child, whoever they are.'

Professor Wim Distelmans, head of Belgium's Federal Commission for Euthanasia Control and Evaluation, said 'more and more' elderly people 'no longer accept' polypathology  non-terminal conditions such as sight and hearing loss and incontinence  and opt to die instead.

In February, neurologist Dr Ludo Vanopdenbosch resigned from the commission, which is controversially made up of many pro-euthanasia doctors, in protest at the unchecked killings of dementia patients.
Ishaq Al-Noor, 21, who came to the UK as a refugee three years ago, carried out 'almost identical' attacks on the women in June and November last year

A Sudanese asylum seeker who raped a student and then tried to rape a mother in the same cemetery has been jailed for 16 years after admitting the crimes saying: 'Guilty. Yes - why not?'.

Sexual predator Ishaq Al-Noor, 21, who came to the UK as a refugee three years ago, carried out 'almost identical' attacks on the women in June and November last year.

Al-Noor lay in wait late at night for both victims to cross his path before dragging them into the same graveyard on Spring Bank in Hull, East Yorkshire.

When the rape charge was put to him, Al-Noor, through his interpreter, told Hull Crown Court: 'Guilty. Yes, I did that. Why not?'

He then replied 'Yes, guilty' to the attempted rape.

He will be deported after serving his jail term.

In their victim statements, read on their behalf by prosecutor John Thackray , the student, who was just 17 at the time, said: 'When he assaulted me he might as well have taken my future, my sense of self, my security, and stomped on it.

'It shattered my parents' perspective of their little girl, something no parent should have to go through.

'The guilt is still with me 12 months later. The horror in my mum's voice when she asked me through the phone 'Has somebody hurt you?' - it broke my heart. Having to sit there and recite the entire assault to a police officer in front of my parents turned me inside out.

'I have always been a high-achieving student. I had ambition; I knew exactly where my future was headed for.'

Al-Noor would wait by this Hull cemetery, cornering two women then dragging them into the woods. One young woman was raped and a mother fought him off - but both say their lives have been devastated

But she said when she resumed her studies, her attendance and focus dropped. She said she now feels paranoia and guilt and suffers sleep paralysis. 'Long days and longer nights lead to self-hate', she said, and she started to 'really despise myself'.

'I hated myself with an intensity that scares me even now,' she said. 'I write letters about depression and suicide and leave them out in my room in the hope my parents would find it and see it as crying for help and get me some help.'

She said she now feels anxious around people she had previously been comfortable with. 'I've given up for myself completely,' she said. 'For a long time I was paranoid I'd run into him.'

'It wasn't something I did. I didn't give consent. I didn't even give him a reason. I made it very clear I didn't want intercourse. I said 'No'. Through his actions he conveyed the message my 'No' was not important, and my body and soul were not worth the value that every human being deserves. My body was violated.'

Her mother described her before the rape as 'free-spirited, open-minded, kind, polite, compassionate', and 'beautiful inside and out'. She said: 'My free-spirited daughter is now vulnerable. She feels vulnerable but still won't talk about it with anybody.'

The woman Al-Noor tried to rape said 2018 was going to be 'my year', as she and her partner were due to move into a new house, celebrate family milestones, and have a 'fresh start'.

Instead, she is now dealing with the impact of Al-Noor's attack, and said she had tried to take her own life in the aftermath. She attended court with her partner to see Al-Noor jailed.

She called the attack 'vicious' and 'the closest I have been to being murdered. I don't know how I managed to fight with him. I was intoxicated, two minutes away from safety, shouting and screaming whilst he took me off my feet.

'I was screaming 'No! Please stop! No!' I thought I was going to be stabbed. He threw me to the ground and dragged me to the cemetery. He didn't say anything in the graveyard. He just forced himself on me.'

She said she felt 'worthless' and 'disgusting', and thinking 'If only I hadn't gone out drinking. If only this, if only that.'

Sentencing Al-Noor, Judge Simon Jack said of the victims: 'They should be very proud of themselves. We in the courts know that it is a real ordeal to go through the process of complaining about rape, and to face the prospect of having to give evidence before a group of strangers.

'But without women who have the courage to do that we would be unable to bring people like you to justice. The two women who have complained can have the satisfaction of knowing that they have protected others from you.'

Al-Noor, of Pendrill Street, west Hull, needed the services of one of the few interpreters in the UK who could speak his particular Sudanese dialect.

Claire Holmes, for Al-Noor, said: 'This defendant came to the UK as an asylum seeker three years ago to work.

In a statement after the hearing, Detective Chief Inspector Craig Nicholson, of Humberside Police's Protecting Vulnerable People Unit, said: 'The victims in this case have shown immense bravery in coming forward to report these offences to us.'
An Australian backpacker has been raped while holidaying in a popular Croatian beach town.

The 23-year-old woman told local police the sexual assault happened on the beach at Makarska, located on the country's Dalmatian coast, in the early hours of Monday morning.

Croatian Police said she arrived at the emergency department of the local hospital at 2.30am following the assault.

An Australian backpacker has been raped while holidaying in a popular Croatian beach town (file image)

A statement, also issued by police, said the woman was only able to provide vague details about her attacker as she was under the influence of alcohol.

It is believed the attacker was an unknown man.

Known for its vibrant nightlife and idyllic beaches, Makarska sits as part of the larger Makarska Riviera between the tourist hot-spots of Split and Dubrovnik.

In recent years it has also become a favourite with sun-seeking Australian backpackers, marking its place on the route of Sail Croatia's voyages.
Two twin sisters have drowned in the sea on a family holiday after their mother got glued to her phone while minding them in east China.

The woman was updating her social media account just metres away before realising her daughters had gone missing, she told a newspaper.

The family of three were on a stretch of wild beach when the tragedy occurred on Sunday. Police found the girls' bodies in the sea one day later.

The twin sisters (seen in a photo released by police in a missing persons report) were on a holiday in Qingdao with their mother before tragically drowning in the sea on Sunday

Qingdao (file photo) is a popular summer holiday destination in China. The family of three were on a stretch of wild beach (not the one above) without lifeguards or life-saving equipment

The sisters, named Pei Yuanjin and Pei Yuantong, were on a beach holiday with their mother in Qingdao, a popular summer destination about seven hours drive away from their hometown Beijing. Their father had remained in Beijing.

The mother, unidentified, realised her daughters had gone missing at around 3pm, according to a police statement. They were on a less populous and unmonitored beach in the Huangdao district.

It is said that the sea near the shore can reach five or six metres (16 to 19 feet) deep, while the two girls were about 1.2 metres (4 feet) tall.

According to a report on People's Daily Online, the mother admitted that she had been playing on her phone on the beach metres away from her daughters.

'I looked at my phone and my daughters in turn,' she told a reporter from Beijing Youth Daily, adding that she had let her guard down after seeing her daughters were playing with the sand.

She said she realised her children had 'vanished' after updating her account on 'Moments', a social-networking function which links friends on popular messaging app Wechat.

The mother immediately alerted the police, which sent out around 400 rescuers to search the nearby areas and the sea. A missing persons report was also posted by the police on WeChat.

The girls' bodies were found in the sea on Monday, one day after they had been reported missing.

The eight-year-olds had been playing with sand on the beach metres away from their mother before they went missing. The pictures were released by police in a missing persons report

The news has sparked an outcry among the Chinese public, many of whom condemn the mother for her obsession with her mobile phone.

However in an opinion column, China News claimed the fact that the beach was unmonitored should be the reason to blame.

The state-run news outlet said the family had been on a beach that was not managed by any company or the government. There are no lifeguards or life-saving equipment on the beach.

The report also said that a signboard saying 'no swimming' had been erected on the beach to prevent people from going to the sea. However, many people reportedly ignore the warning.

The newspaper urged the city authority to step up the management over wild beaches to prevent accidents as such from happening again.
The US-led coalition fighting ISIS in Syria has finally admitted killing 77 more civilians than previously reported.

Amnesty International said in a damning report in June that the civilians including 24 children and 25 women died during four bomb attacks on Raqqa in 2017.

Coalition officials slammed the report, with one colonel saying the group failed to check public records and others calling it 'naive' and 'reckless.'

The US-led coalition fighting ISIS in Syria has finally admitted killing 77 more civilians than previously reported. Pictured: The bombing of Raqqa

Amnesty International said in a damning report in June that the civilians including 24 children and 25 women died during the four bomb attacks on Raqqa (pictured) in 2017

But the coalition decided to investigate and then admitted to the 77 deaths in a casualty report released on 26 July.

Amnesty International said in a statement today the coalition's admission was just the 'tip of the iceberg.'

It called for an investigation to understand why civilians were killed and who was responsible and said the civilians of Raqqa deserve justice and compensation.

The watchdog says it believes hundreds of civilians were killed in the Raqqa campaign and that the coalition is underreporting casualties.

IS has been mostly defeated in Iraq and Syria, though it still controls small pockets of territory.

Amnesty International said in a statement today the coalition's admission was just the 'tip of the iceberg.'

The coalition casuality report stated: 'The investigation assessed that although all feasible precautions were taken and the decision to strike complied with the law of armed conflict, unintended civilian casualties regrettably occurred.

'Throughout our air and ground campaigns, we have used deliberate targeting and strike processes to minimize the impact of our operations on civilian populations and infrastructure.

'Our assessments of civilian casualties are transparent, and we hold ourselves accountable through regularly published strike press releases and civilian casualty reports,' the report said.
A British man has been caught driving at 145mph down a French motorway while taking part in the Gumball 3000 rally from London to Tokyo.

The man, who has not been identified, was driving from Calais to Chantilly on Sunday when he was caught by Gerdarmes who had set up speed traps.

He was one of 16 drivers who were also caught doing more than 100mph that day.

A British man has been arrested in France after being caught doing 145mph during the Gumball 3000 rally from London to Tokyo (there is no suggestion that this was the Rolls Royce involved in speeding)

In total, 16 drivers were caught going more than 100mph during the first leg of the rally which runs from London to Chantilly, in France (file image)

There are 120 cars taking part in this year's race. Entrants are charged thousands of pound to participate, with some of the proceeds donated to charity

The man was arrested, banned from driving on French roads, hit with a hefty fine, then released from custody on Monday.

However, the car was not seized by police after they confirmed that the man driving was not the owner of the vehicle.

All of the cars were stopped at Setques, just 60 miles (100km) from Calais, by a team of 14 French police.

The officers decided to set up the speed trap after being alerted to the race by a flamboyant publicity event in London at the weekend.

In total there are 120 cars taking part in the Gumball rally, which this year is going from London to Tokyo.

The first leg of the race sees drivers go from London to Chantilly, then on to Italy where they stop in Milan and Bologna before flying to Japan.

Entry fees for the race total thousands of pounds each, with much of the proceeds donated to charity.

The cars were caught speeding on the first leg of the race, from London to Chantilly. The second leg takes them from Chantilly to Milan, before Bologna and then a flight to Japan

Cars gathered in London over the weekend for the start of the rally before crossing the channel to France on Sunday

David Hasselhoff poses with an Aston Martin DB6 at the start line of the Gumball 3000 rally in London at the weekend

In June the same Gendarmes at the same motorway pay station stopped 23-year-old Aaron Monro in his 375,000 McLaren after he was clocked doing 166mph.

Mr Monro had been competing in the Modball Rally at the time.

Gendarmes stopped a total of seven of competitors who were fined 660 and had their licences confiscated.

One of them was a 57-year-old Briton flashed at 127mph.

Mr Monro subsequently defended his actions, saying: 'Any young man would put his foot down.'

Competitors in Modball and Gumball and other events inspired by the original US Cannonball racers are notoriously contemptuous of speed limits on motorways.

France toughened up its stance on speeding in the early 2000s when Nicolas Sarkozy, then Minister of the Interior, introduced radar cameras and spot checks for drink driving.

As a result the death toll on French roads was drastically reduced.
This is the shocking moment a petrol tanker slammed into the back of a truck on a highway near the Bologna airport in Italy on Monday, causing a huge explosion which killed at least one person and put dozens in hospital.

CCTV footage shows the petrol tanker driving straight into the vehicles in front at high speed, immediately catching fire.

Some time later, when surrounding unharmed vehicles have been evacuated from the motorway bridge, the burning trucks cause an almighty explosion.

Explosion: CCTV footage shows the moment the petrol tanker exploded, collapsing a part of the motorway bridge near Bologna airport, Italy.

Italian authorities have named the deceased as the tanker's 41-year-old driver, and has said 70 people were injured, some with serious burns.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has today visited victims of the crash, saying that it was important to understand what happened to prevent future tragedies.

'I am here today to demonstrate the closeness of the government to the people who are suffering, but also to understand why so that these things are not repeated,' Mr Conte said.

Prosecutors have opened an investigation into the Bologna accident, triggered when the tanker truck carrying liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG, rammed into a truck stuck in a line of traffic.

A huge explosion has taken place near an airport in Italy this afternoon amid reports or a road smash involving a petrol tanker

Police have said the blast could be felt in the busy terminal and was caused by an accident on the nearby motorway

Video shows a massive explosion just yards from cars on the carriageway and people sprinting to safety down the road

The tanker immediately caught fire, and then exploded a short time later across eight lanes, collapsing part of the raised highway.

Police video shows that by the time of the explosion, most vehicles had been evacuated from the highway.

Highway police said only the tanker driver died in the crash, revising earlier reports by the carabinieri that there were two dead.

Dozens of people were injured, many with burns or cuts from flying glass when windows of buildings nearby were shattered in the blast.

'Maybe it was a moment of distraction, or a wave of sleepiness,' Bologna prosecutor Giuseppe Amato told RAI radio. 'But it is too early to say with certainty.'

A motorway bridge collapsed onto cars below after being torn down by the huge explosion

The blaze spread to a carpark below the bridge, where vehicles caught fire and blew up

Aerial photos show the extent of the explosion after a crash reportedly involving a tanker
A champion surf lifesaver injured in the sea while catching waves with friends, has revealed how she considers herself lucky to be alive following the freak accident.

Jessica Collins, 24, was surfing with friends on the Gold Coast when she fell off a paddle board, crashed into a sand bank and fractured her C5 vertebrae.

The incident left her with with spinal cord damage and paralysed from the chest down.

Now two months on, Jessica and her family have spoken about how they are grateful she is alive after the wave that turned their lives upside down.

Champion surf lifesaver Jessica Collins (left), who was injured in the sea while catching waves with friends, has revealed how she considers herself lucky to be alive following the freak accident

Jessica's positivity has also rubbed off on her family, with her father Peter (second from right) says she is grateful to have survived the ordeal and is optimistic about life post-injury

Jessica was surfing with friends on the Gold Coast when she fell off a paddle board, crashed into a sand bank and fractured her C5 vertebrae, sustaining a spinal cord injury

'You can start looking back on it and thinking, "oh if only I hadn't have caught that wave", but it's happened, I've got to face that now,' Jessica told A Current Affair about her mindset after the accident.

And her positivity has rubbed off on the whole Collins family, who have had to comes to terms with how close their vibrant daughter came to losing her life.

'I thought I was going to be dead', father Peter recalled his daughter saying after the accident.

'We were devastated walking into the room and Jess looked up at us and said, "don't be upset this is good".'

And while doctors remains wary about Jessica's chance of walking again, she has taken the steely determination from her days as an athlete to her grueling rehabilitation routine.

Since sustaining the injury, the education student has regained some movement in her arms and is already making strides toward further recovery.

At the time of the accident, Jessica's sister Emma told Daily Mail Australia that she never lost consciousness and was instructing the lifesaver how to help her from the moment it happened

Jessica's sister Emma said after her accident that hospital staff adore Jessica's strength of will and positive attitude

While doctors remains weary about Jessica's chance of walking again, she has taken the steely determination from her days as an athlete to her grueling rehabilitation routine

At the time of the accident, Jessica's sister Emma told Daily Mail Australia that she never lost consciousness and was telling the lifesaver how to help her from the moment it happened.

'She was lucky that she was surfing with five of her friends and they are all lifesavers who responded so quickly to her.

'From there the lifeguard on duty and the paramedics took over - but her friends are the definition of angels in disguise in our eyes.'

Their father Peter said that Jessica was aware that once a person loses consciousness and goes below the surface there is a possibility they will not be found.

'She knew she had to hold her breath as long as she could because once she exhaled, she was dead,' Mr Collins told the Sydney Morning Herald.

In an earlier post on Facebook, Emma explained her sister had successfully undergone spinal surgery to fuse the bone back together shortly after the accident

Despite the harrowing prospect of never walking again, Mr Collins says she is grateful to have survived the ordeal and is optimistic about her recovery

'She said once she hit the bottom that 'thank God I stayed conscious'.

Despite the harrowing prospect of never walking again, Mr Collins says Jessica remains grateful to have survived the ordeal and is optimistic about her recovery.

'She is an amazing girl. You just can't believe how strong she is in terms of her will and determination. She's proved that with her sporting expertise and in life. She will never give in on anything that she needs to work on.'

In an earlier post on Facebook, Emma explained her sister had successfully undergone spinal surgery to fuse the bone back together shortly after the accident.

'At present she has no feeling below the shoulders but she is the strongest, most persistent and stubborn person and she will not let this beat her,' she wrote.

Ms Collins said hospital staff adore Jessica's strength of will and positive attitude.

'We are lucky to have her here and she has such a positive outlook on life and just loves life as we all know.'

The family have launched a GoFundMe page to go towards Jess's recovery and rehabilitation 'in the hope that one day she will again stand tall and face the sun, just like a sunflower.'
Chris Denning, 76, of Basildon, Essex, was alleged to have indecently assaulted a boy

A founding BBC Radio 1 DJ has been cleared of abusing an underage boy while serving a 13-year jail term for a catalogue of historic sex offences.

Chris Denning, 76, of Basildon, Essex, was said to have indecently assaulted a 14-year-old boy on multiple occasions between March 1979 and March 1981.

He also took an indecent photo of the child during the same period, it was said.

Graham Soper, 58, of Caterham, Surrey, was claimed to have been the first to abuse the child but charges were also dropped against him, it can be revealed.

The prosecution dropped the case against Denning and Soper on June 13, but this could not be reported due to the trial of pop personality Jonathan King, taking place at the same court.

King was accused of grooming 11 boys but his case collapsed due to prosecution disclosure blunders and all charges against him have been dropped.

A court artist sketch of Chris Denning, who was jailed in 2014 after admitting abusing 24 boys

Former radio DJ Jonathan King was accused of grooming 11 boys but his case collapsed due to prosecution disclosure blunders and all charges against him have been dropped

Denning was jailed for 13 years in 2014 after admitting abusing 24 boys - some as young as nine - using his celebrity status to lure them into his clutches.

He groomed the youngsters with gifts, invites to celebrity parties and drugs and alcohol before molesting them.

Denning was then handed a concurrent 13-year term in October 2016 after he offered a 'very well-known Radio 1 DJ' a boy for sex at his bungalow in the 1980s.

The victim was aged just seven when he first met Denning at his shop and came to see him as a 'father figure'.

Denning was one of a gang of men including King who targeted youngsters at 1970s disco the Walton Hop in Walton-Upon-Thames, Surrey, held in the small Playhouse theatre (pictured)

Denning was arrested in April 2013 under Operation Yewtree, the Metropolitan Police probe launched in the wake of the abuse scandal involving Jimmy Savile (pictured in 1967)

The BBC star then began to sexually abuse the boy in a bedroom above the shop between 1980-1984, telling him it was 'their secret'.

How Chris Denning helped launch Radio 1 Chris Denning had left his London grammar school aged 15 and began his radio career at Radio Moscow. He then took up posts on Radio Luxembourg and Radio London. Denning was among a team of BBC disc jockeys who launched Radio 1 in the 1960s. Denning was one of the first voices of the world-famous station and worked alongside household names including Tony Blackburn, Kenny Everett, Terry Wogan and John Peel. The DJ also worked for record label Decca for two years and helped propel Gary Glitter and the Bay City Rollers to stardom. Advertisement

He was one of the first voices of the radio station and worked alongside household names including Tony Blackburn, Kenny Everett, Terry Wogan and John Peel.

But the shamed celebrity's career was halted after he was convicted for offences against children 40 years ago.

Since 1974 he has racked up prison sentences of 18 months in 1985, three years in 1988 and three months in 1996.

He was jailed for four years in a Czech prison in 1998 and given a further five years in 2008, for either having sex with young boys or producing child pornography.

Denning worked for Radio 1 and was also employed as a Radio 2 announcer and music producer.

He was one of a gang of men including King who targeted youngsters at 1970s disco the Walton Hop in Walton-Upon-Thames, Surrey. The Hop, nicknamed 'Britain's first disco', was held three times a week in the small Playhouse theatre.

BBC Radio 1's first chief Robin Scott (centre, background) with founding DJs (back, from left) Tony Blackburn, Jimmy Young, Kenny Everett, Duncan Johnson, David Rider, Dave Cash, Pete Brady, David Symonds, (middle, from left) Bob Holness, Terry Wogan, Barry Alldis, Mike Lennox, Keith Skues, CHRIS DENNING (circled), Johnny Moran, (front, from left) Pete Murray, Ed Stewart, Pete Drummond, Mike Raven, Mike Ahern and John Peel at Portland Place in 1967

Denning had been working for King's company UK Records, but was later sacked by King. King was later jailed for seven and a half years for child sex offences in 2001.

Police savaged over Jonathan King trial Police were savaged for their disastrous handling of Jonathan King's fourth trial on child abuse charges. The producer, who had already served three-and-a-half years for molesting children, went in the dock again in June accused of grooming 11 boys. But proceedings were halted because police had failed to disclose evidence and covered up investigatory blunders. In a withering ruling, Judge Deborah Taylor blasted police and prosecutors. She said Surrey Police pursued the case not in the interests of justice but to repair their reputational damage over failings in the Jimmy Savile case. King said yesterday that he would seek to overturn his 2001 conviction. Advertisement

Denning was arrested in April 2013 under Operation Yewtree, the Metropolitan Police probe launched in the wake of the Jimmy Savile abuse scandal.

Prosecutors had alleged Soper and Denning abused the boy after he was attacked by another man, who was since committed suicide.

The pair had appeared in the dock at Southwark Crown Court on June 13 - the same day King went on trial.

Denning denied two indecent assaults and one offence of taking indecent images of a child.

Soper entered not guilty pleas to four counts of indecent assaults and one count of indecency with the same child - and the charges were dropped by the prosecution.

Denning denied two counts of indecent assault and one of taking indecent photos of a child.

Soper denied four counts of indecent assault and one of indecency with a child and was bailed.
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A watch gifted by a British soldier to a German foe for saving his life on the battlefield has been unearthed 100 years later to reveal their unlikely friendship.

Tank commander Lieutenant Clement Arnold was facing certain death after being taken hostage by Germans who were seeking revenge for the loss of their comrades at the Battle of Amiens.

He had been in charge of a Whippet tank which ploughed through the German defences causing major casualties before it received a direct hit and caught fire.

A watch gifted by a British soldier to a German foe for saving his life on the battlefield has been unearthed 100 years later to reveal their unlikely friendship (Pictured Lt Arnold)

Tank commander Lieutenant Clement Arnold was facing certain death after being taken hostage by Germans who were seeking revenge for the loss of their comrades at the Battle of Amiens (Pictured Lieutenant Clement Arnold, left and Ernst von Maravic, right)

The circling German soldiers bayoneted to death the tank driver and Lt Arnold was struck over the head with a rifle, knocking him unconscious.

But before the fatal blow was landed, German officer Ernst von Maravic stepped in and ordered that Lt Arnold be taken prisoner instead.

As a gesture of gratitude, Clement gave von Maravic gave the Thomas Russell & Son wristwatch he had been gifted by his father on his 21st birthday, his most valuable possession.

He had been in charge of a Whippet tank which ploughed through the German defences causing major casualties before it received a direct hit and caught fire (Pictured Jolyon Arnold, 83, at Tank museum)

Remarkably, 13 years later the German tracked Clement down and gave him his watch back.

The pair went on to form a close friendship over the next 30 years, visiting one another's countries several times.

Now, to mark the centenary of the battle, which began on August 8, 1918, the watch has gone on display at the Tank Museum in Bovington, Dorset, with Clement's nephew present at the unveiling.

Jolyon Arnold, 83, from Horsham, West Sussex, said: 'My uncle Clement was in a Whippet tank which had done a lot of damage and the Germans were after revenge.

'One of the crew had been bayoneted to death and Clement was knocked out but the officer then stepped in and told his soldiers to stop.

'When Clement came around he realised the officer had saved his life and spontaneously gave him his watch which had great sentimental value as it had been given to him by his father. It was his most valuable possession.

'After the war they were somehow able to track each other down and the officer came to north Wales and Clement visited Germany. At some point, he was returned the watch.

'It is a lovely story and one which I think shows the respect which existed between both sides.

'They were like boxers, they fought hard but when it was over they respected each other.'

Clement was one of four brothers from a courageous family in Llandudno, north Wales, who volunteered to fight on the outbreak of the First World War, three of which were in the Tank Corps and the other in the infantry.

The circling German soldiers bayoneted to death the tank driver and Lt Arnold was struck over the head with a rifle, knocking him unconscious (Pictured, a whippet tank at Tank museum, Dorset)

History of Whippet Tank The Whippet was a British medium tank which first saw combat in March of 1918 during the massive German Spring Offensive. It's job was to act like a mechanized cavalry on the front line. It weighed about 15 tons, had a range of 80 miles, a top speed of 8.3 mph and was the fastest tank in the war. Armed with 3 or 4 7.7mm Hotchkiss machine guns, the crew compartment for the Whippet was set at the rear of the tank and housed the driver, a gunner and the tank commander, who also manned a machine gun. The four machine guns were placed in the front, the back and both sides, covering 360 degrees; the two gunners would shift around, using the appropriate weapon. In August 1918, 96 Whippets were used in the Battle for Amiens, where they once again proved themselves on the battlefield against serious opposition. Source: Owlcation Advertisement

All four survived the conflict and were decorated - Arthur and Frank with the Military Cross and Clement and eldest brother William with the Distinguished Service Order.

The fifth brother, Edward, Jolyon's father, was too young to serve in the war.

On the first day of the Battle of Amiens, Clement was in command of the Whippet tank 'Musical Box'.

As the other tanks in their troop were knocked out, 'Musical Box' became the lead tank.

Clement ordered his crew to drive across the enemy line while engaging the German battery with machine gun fire, causing considerable damage.

Inevitably, the tank attracted German machine gun fire which punctured the spare fuel cans on the roof and caused petrol to run down inside the cab.

Two shells then hit the tank, causing the petrol to ignite inside.

After the war, Clement recalled: 'Petrol was running down the inside of the back door. Fumes and heat combined were very bad.

'I was shouting to driver Carney to turn about when the cab burst into flames.

'I managed to get the door open and drag out the other two men.

'The fresh air revived us and we all got up and made a short rush to get away from the burning petrol. We were all on fire. We rolled over and over to try and extinguish the flames.'

But before the fatal blow was landed, German officer Ernst von Maravic stepped in and ordered that Lt Arnold be taken prisoner instead

As a gesture of gratitude, Clement gave von Maravic gave the Thomas Russell & Son wristwatch he had been gifted by his father on his 21st birthday, his most valuable possession

On escaping from the burning tank, they were met by a group of German soldiers seeking revenge for the death of their comrades.

Clement added: 'I saw numbers of the enemy approaching from all round.

'The first arrival came for me with a rifle and bayonet. I got hold of this and the point of the bayonet entered my right forearm.

'The second man struck at my head with the butt end of his rifle, hit my shoulder and neck, and knocked me down.

'When I came to, there were dozens all round me, and anyone who could reach me did so and I was well kicked.'

The pair went on to form a close friendship over the next 30 years, visiting one another's countries several times (Pictured, a whippet tank in the warzone)

At this point, Ernst intervened and Clement spent the rest of the war in a PoW camp.

The pair remained friends until Ernst's death in Munich in 1965. Clement died in Llandudno in 1978, aged 84.

David Willey, curator at the Tank Museum, said the heartwarming tale demonstrated the mutual respect which existed between the British and German front line soldiers in the Great War.

He said: 'There was a comradeship and sense of decency on both sides as they were going through this shared hardship together.

'By giving his watch Lt Arnold was showing his appreciation to von Maravic for saving his life.'

The Victoria Cross awarded to fellow Whippet tank commander Lieutenant Cecil Sewell who got out of his own tank under heavy machine gun fire to rescue the crew of another Whippet before he was killed in the heroic action is also on display at the museum.
These shocking pictures show a group of young children dicing with death by sitting on a busy railway crossing where trains pass through at 60mph.

The alarming images show at least nine boys and girls, some of them sitting cross-legged while others play and walk along the tracks, in Rutland in the East Midlands.

At one stage the group sit huddled together while one girl lies across the wooden sleepers, seemingly oblivious to any danger.

These shocking pictures show a group of young children dicing with death by sitting on a busy railway crossing where trains regularly pass through at 60mph

The alarming images show at least eight boys and girls, some of them sitting cross-legged while others play and walk along the tracks, in Rutland in the East Midlands

Network Rail and British Transport Police have released the images as a warning to families about the dangers of level crossings during the summer holidays.

Vicki Beadle, community safety manager at Network Rail, said: 'A split second decision can have life changing consequences, not only for those involved, but also for their family and friends and railway workers.

'The railway is not a playground and we would urge parents to speak to their children about how to keep safe at level crossings, stations and when using the railway.'

According to the company, which manages the infrastructure of the UK's rail network, there have been more than 2,000 incidents on level crossings involving young people in the last five years.

British Transport Police inspector Jacqueline Wilson said: 'There are numerous dangers on the railway track, we can't stress enough the risk you are taking when you step on to the line.

'It can take a matter of seconds for a life to be destroyed.'

Network Rail and British Transport Police have released the images as a warning to families about the dangers of level crossings during the summer holidays
A pig farmer who has been questioned by FBI agents over the disappearance of missing Iowa student Mollie Tibbetts refused to take a polygraph test on Monday, claiming it would be a 'stupid' exercise.

Wayne Cheney, 56, lives in Guernsey in a trailer, around 10 miles from the town of Brooklyn where Mollie, 20, vanished on July 18 after going for an evening run.

He appeared on authorities' radar after a red shirt that is similar to Mollie's daycare center uniform was found in a field near his home. It is not clear if it is the exact shirt that belonged to Mollie or not.

Cheney, who has previous convictions for stalking an ex-girlfriend, has spoken three times to police and has given some media interviews where he laughed nervously and said he had no idea where Mollie is but suspects 'some guy has her'.

On Monday, the FBI asked him to take a polygraph test but he refused.

'I don't need to. It's stupid,' he told The Des Moines Register on Monday after being confronted by the agents.

Wayne Cheney, 56, (pictured in Iowa last week) refused a polygraph test on Monday about the disappearance of Mollie Tibbetts (right) who vanished on July 18

Despite saying he had 'nothing to hide', Cheney said he had already let police search his home and land.

He believes they are wasting their time by focusing their efforts on him.

Mollie's father Rob said on Monday night that he feels his daughter is with someone she knows who is now 'in over their head'.

'If someone out there is holding Mollie, and theyre in over their head and theyve made a horrible mistake, you can end it now before it goes any further,' he said at a press conference.

Later, he said he was encouraged by the fact they had not found her body.

'I'll be honest with you early on I wasn't as hopeful as I am now.

'The longer we go without finding Mollie's body the more hopeful we are that she's alive somewhere and going through something that she can survive.

With family and friends in the clear, investigators looked at registered sex offenders and convicted criminals living locally

Cheney lives near this pig farm which was searched by investigators looking for Mollie last week

'It's total speculation but I think that Mollie is with someone that she knows, that is in over their head, that there was some kind of misunderstanding.

Mollie's father Rob made a new plea for her to return on Monday night. He said he believes she is still alive and is with someone she knows who is 'in over their head'

'About the nature of their relationship and they don't know how to get out of this, they don't know how to resolve this,' he told Fox News.

He added that he does not think the person went into the home 'to hurt her' but that their relationship turned sinister at some stage.

'Let Mollie come home and hold yourself accountable for what you've done so far, but don't escalate this to a point where you can't recover yourself,' he added.

Mollie was staying overnight at her boyfriend Dalton Jack's home with his dogs.

Dalton was ruled out early on as a suspect because he was at work 130 miles away in Dubuque.

His brother and his brother's fiancee who also live in the home were also cleared because they had alibis.

Mollie's uniform for the daycare she worked at is pictured. Last week, investigators found a red shirt near the pig farm but they would not say if it was hers

This is the house in Brooklyn, Iowa, where Mollie disappeared on the night of July 18. Her boyfriend Jack shares the house with his brother Blake and his fiancee Aimee Houghton but neither of them was home. The boyfriend has since said they rarely lock their doors at night

Investigators say they have ruled boyfriend Dalton Jack (L) out as a suspect and Laura Calderwood insists he's above suspicion

While Mollie's father is hopeful she is still alive, her mother is tortured by her disappearance and says she is in 'purgatory'.

Mollie's boyfriend's brother Blake Dalton and his fiancee Aimee Houghton (above) also lived in the house but neither was there on the night she vanished. They were in Ames, 83 miles away

''I'm either going to be headed up to heaven or down to hell, depending on the result,' Tibbett's mother, Laura Calderwood, told DailyMail.com last week.

The reward for information about Mollie's disappearance is now $260,000.

Last week, Cheney said he was being unfairly targeted and giggled nervously as he spoke to reporters outside his trailer.

He sold Prestige Farms five years ago but still lives nearby.

Anyone with information about her is urged to contact the Poweshiek County Sheriff's Office at 641 623 5679 or email tips@poweshiekcosheriff.com

Tips can also be submitted via Crime Stoppers of Central Iowa which has collected $172,000 so far in donations that will be available as a reward for information leading to Mollie's safe return.

Crime Stoppers can be contacted anonymously at 1-800-452-1111 or via their website.
Police found evidence of at least 50 people living in appalling conditions after a raid on two small suburban London homes.

Officers discovered a series of fire hazards at one property in Rayners Lane, north London, as well as filthy interiors and a sheet being used as a makeshift curtain.

The landlord is now facing action from Harrow Council after council officers officers found the 485,000 house had mould and no smoke or carbon monoxide detectors.

The raid itself was broadcast on Channel 5's Bad Tenants Rogue Landlords.

Meanwhile another property in nearby Kenton was found with 31 beds inside it including bunkbeds lashed together with timber.

Police and council officers raided a home in Harrow last week, pictured, and found evidence that at least 20 people had been living there

The property was described as being in 'appalling condition' with peeling ceilings, left, and mould spread across the walls, right

Harrow Council shared photos of the Rayners Lane property showing the grim conditions including mould spreading up the walls.

A spokesman for the council said: 'This morning we are with our enforcement officers and Harrow Police inspecting this unlicensed House in Multiple Occupancy and overcrowded property.

'Just some of the things wrong with this property. There is no fire safety, no smoke detectors, no carbon monoxide detectors, mould, and an array of health and safety issues.'

The raid revealed evidence of 'at least 20 people' living in the semi-detached house which is estimated to be worth 485,000 according to Zoopla.

The website states the house price has shot up by a whopping 207 per cent in 18 years after the freehold was sold for 158,000 on November 29 2000.

Greenhill Police, the local team for the area, tweeted: 'We've assisted Harrow Council with executing a warrant in the Rayners Lane area.

'Appalling living conditions and overcrowding in a property.'

A bedsheet was also being used as a makeshift curtain, pictured, at the property. The council is now taking legal action against the landlord

The raid on the house last week featured on Channel 5's Bad Tenants Rogue Landlords.

The show revealed one of its tenants was said to be subletting the property and was arrested by police for immigration offences.

Officers found the 31 bed spaces and just one bathroom in a similar inspection at another 'very overcrowded' three-bed property in Kenton in north-west London.

Homemade double bunk beds lashed together from timber with each unit housing up to eight people were also found on August 2.

Harrow Council said there were no smoke detectors in the property and signs of collapse on one of the stairs.

The council confirmed both properties were run by separate landlords.
An EU diplomat savaged Theresa May's Brexit stance - accusing her of coming up with a plan that is stuck in the Victorian age.

The official said the PM is so indecisive that it is easier to negotiate with Donald Trump.

In a brutal attack on Mrs May's Chequers plan, the ambassador of an EU country said the Prime Minister has come up with a plan which is 'very nostalgic'.

The unnamed diplomat told The Sun said the Brussels bloc has found it incredibly difficult to negotiate with Mrs May because she is 'irrational'.

The blistering put-down comes amid growing fears that Britain will crash out of the bloc without a deal.

UK ministers have said that stubborn Eurocrats are risking a no deal Brexit because they are refusing to compromise and respond to Britain's plans.

In a brutal attack on Theresa May (pictured on Sunday going to church with her husband Philip) the ambassador of an EU country said the Prime Minister has come up with a plan which is 'very nostalgic'

But the ambassador laid the blame with the UK, saying that Mrs May's Brexit plan - which sticks to EU rules on goods but not services - harks back to the 19th Century.

They said: 'It creates a world as if one trades goods which are packaged in cartons, but this is the 21st Century.

'It's a very 19th Century way of looking at trade which might appeal to the British public, but we've moved on two centuries.'

The senior figure added: 'If this had been a rational discussion like we have with Trump on cars, what's underneath is rational.

'With the UK from the start this has not been a rational negotiation, that's what makes it so difficult.

'Rationally the chance of a cliff-edge should be zero percent.

'If there's going to be no deal it's not because of the EU it will be because of London, because they just can't manage themselves to arrive at a deal.'

But the senior diplomat said that the UK will be given a 'special arrangement' which will be 'more intense or intimate' than the EU has with any other partner.

The attack comes after International Trade Secretary Liam Fox (pictured) put the chances of the UK crashing out without a deal at 60 40

It comes as fears that Britain will crash out of the EU without a deal grow  with International Trade Secretary Liam Fox warning the chances of no deal are now 60 to 40.

The Cabinet minister and leading Brexiteer said that politicians in Brussels were letting their stubbornness get in the way of agreeing a deal with the UK.

Police leaders have warned that public safety will be put at risk if Britain fails to get a deal and the EU follows through on its threat to cut the country off from crucial police databases.

While yesterday Tory MP and Brexiteer Sir Bernard Jenkin warned Brussels that farmers will riot in the streets of Europe in the bloc refuses to do a deal with Britain and slaps punitive tariffs on trade.

The PM has warned the EU that she has taken a significant step in publishing her Chequers Brexit compromise plan and they must now respond.

But she is facing a revolt from her Tory grassroots who are furious over her proposal  which they say will leave the UK bound to Brussels and unable to strike free trade deals globally.

Mrs May is touring the UK and holding talks with EU leaders in a desperate bid to drum up support for her plan and get a deal done by the end of the year.

Yet any hopes that a deal will be done by the October deadline are fading fast. Politicians on both sides believe the timetable can be pushed back, but an agreement must be thrashed out by the end of the year at the very latest.
Animal rights campaigners rescued two puppies at a South Korea market, claiming they were moments from slaughter despite the country's ban on killing dogs.

Sian Davies, from Cardiff, saved the Jindo puppies from the Moran Market where she claims dogs are clubbed to death before being turned into soup.

The 53-year-old visited with fellow activists Suzi Lee and Helen Kim to 'learn the truth' about the dog trade.

Animal rights campaigners rescued two puppies (pictured) at a South Korea meat market

As many as 80,000 dogs were slaughtered a year in Moran Market before the killing ban

She said: 'The dog meat selling was supposed to be banned but we saw live dogs displayed and although we did not see dogs being slaughtered there we certainly knew they were.

'We heard them and saw a butcher coming out for a wheelbarrow and of course we have seen, photographed and videoed the live dogs on display.'

In a lengthy Facebook post, Ms Davies explained how the activists went about rescuing two dogs they believed would be slaughtered.

She wrote: 'We saw rows and rows of cases with dog meat and glass display cases with dead dogs.

'We were about to cross the road when an old guy came right in front of us with a box and a jindo puppy popped his head out.

Sian Davies (left with the rescued dogs), from Cardiff, saved the puppies from the Moran Market where she claims dogs are clubbed to death before being turned into soup

These are the two dogs that Ms Davies 'saved' from the Moran market in South Korea

'We asked about the puppy and another puppy popped its head out, he told us he was here to sell them.

'We asked what price he would get and he told us 50,000kw which is $46 for both pups, that's all their lives were worth.

'The dog meat traders started to shout at us and sprayed water as we were trying to ask the old man to give us the pups and we used that to say to him they were shaming him and he agreed to give us the pups.'

Dog meat consumption is a grey area in South Korean law. Last month the state banned the killing of dogs but did not ban consumption.

It comes as Indonesia is preparing a regulation to ban the trade of meat derived from pets and exotic animals.

The ban aims to promote animal welfare and rein in disease, an official said on Tuesday as the decision was cheered by animal rights campaigners.

In a lengthy Facebook post, Ms Davies explained how the activists went about the rescue. She wrote: 'We saw rows and rows of cases with dog meat and glass display cases with dead dogs'

People in some parts of the Southeast Asian nation are known to consume dog meat and the government faces pressure from animal rights groups to tackle the issue.

'(Dog meat) is not food, according to our food law,' said Syamsu Ma'arif, director of veterinary public health at the agriculture ministry, adding that the ministry was still gathering material to back the planned regulation.

He gave no timeline for it to be issued or when it would take effect.

There is no data on how much dog meat is consumed in Indonesia, but 2015 research cited by the agriculture ministry showed that about 730,000 dogs enter the capital, Jakarta, from West Java each year for consumption.

By comparison, nearby Vietnam consumes 5 million dogs every year, the Asia Canine Protection Alliance says.

Animal rights groups applauded Indonesia's decision while calling for an end to trading in meat derived from pets.

Ms Davies (centre) visited with fellow activists Suzi Lee and Helen Kim to 'learn the truth' about the dog trade

'Customs evolve and the nationwide movement calling for an end to these trades is proof that Indonesia is ready to banish the dog meat trade to the history books,' said Lola Webber, coordinator of the Dog Meat-Free Indonesia coalition.

'This latest announcement will be celebrated globally,' added Webber, whose coalition recently warned against exposure to the rabies virus from eating dog and cat meat.

Indonesia's pledge could have a cascade effect across Asia, the Humane Society International said, if it spurs action in countries where dog meat is also consumed, such as China, Korea and Vietnam.

'Pressure from the West does get acknowledged, but an Indonesian ban could be a far more powerful driver for change,' said the society's director, Wendy Higgins.
Bungling builders have constructed a brand new house - with a lamp post completely blocking the front gate.

The street-side post has been left to block the pathway to the front door of one of the properties in a new housing development on Manchester Road in Leigh, Wigan.

Nearby resident Eric Fleming walks through the estate on a near daily basis on his way to work.

Bungling builders have constructed a brand new house - with a lamp post completely blocking the front gate

He and his wife said they were shocked by the 'sloppy' job.

The 55-year-old said: 'I walk past on a quite a frequent basis, the lamp post has been there since the house was built.

'It looks really sloppy.'

Eric's wife, Kathryn added: 'I was a bit shocked at first.'

Nearby resident Eric Fleming said he believes that the lamppost has been left in place because of delays in planning procedure

The housing development was finished earlier this year and the three-bedroom properties are on the market for 219,000.

Eric said he believes that the lamppost has been left in place because of delays in planning procedure.

But he added that it may be moved in future as the build is not yet formally completed.

He added: 'I heard it's going to be moved. Apparently it's bureaucracy that's stopped them moving it from the site.'

At the moment the property is believed to be unoccupied.

Prime Developments North West and THWG Building Solutions have been contacted for comment. A spokesman for THWG Building Solutions declined to comment as they said it was not their site.
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A further five F-35 Lightning jets have landed in their new permanent British home after being flown from the US.

A stunning sunset greeted the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy pilots as they entered UK airspace, flying over South West England on Friday evening following their 4,100-mile (6,600km) journey across the Atlantic Ocean.

The flight from US Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in South Carolina marked the second wave of the jets arriving at their new base of RAF Marham in Norfolk, which is now home to nine of the supersonic stealth aircraft.

One of the second batch of Britain's now F-35B Lightning jets is pictured during its flight from the US to England last week

A stunning sunset greeted the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy pilots as they entered UK airspace, flying over the South West

The flight from US Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in South Carolina marked the second wave of the jets arriving in Norfolk

The first four F-35s arrived at RAF Marham in June, ahead of the arrival of the latest five (one of which is pictured) on Friday

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said the jets are 'formidable fighters' to keep the UK safe from the 'gravest of dangers'

Britain currently has 15 F-35Bs  the short take-off and vertical landing variant of the jets  and has pledged to purchase 138

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has described the jets, which are estimated to cost between 92million and 120million each, as 'formidable fighters' which are set to keep the country safe from the 'gravest of dangers'.

Britain currently has 15 F-35Bs  the short take-off and vertical landing variant of the jets  and has pledged to purchase 138 in total from Lockheed Martin. The first four F-35s arrived at Marham in early June.

Later this year F-35 flight trials will take place off HMS Queen Elizabeth - seeing British pilots fly jointly owned test jets off the deck. The aircraft are being flown by the recently reformed historic 617 'Dambusters' squadron.

The arrival of the five new F-35s is a positive step for the RAF, with the project having had a troubled history of production and delivery - and its cost overruns making it the most world's most expensive weapons system.

Air Commadore David Bradshaw said: 'The exciting arrival of five more F-35B Lightnings in the UK on August 3 after their 4000 miles flight from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in South Carolina was a fabulous moment for all those involved on both sides of the Atlantic.

'Now we have nine phenomenally capable Lightnings at RAF Marham as planned, the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy personnel of 617 Squadron will continue to put these cutting edge aircraft through their paces to be ready for operations by the end of 2018.

RAF Marham in Norfolk, which has had a 200million upgrade, is now home to nine of the supersonic stealth aircraft

The arrival of the F-35s is a positive step for the RAF, with the project having had a troubled history of production and delivery

The F-35 stealth jets have a range of 1,300 miles and carry gatling guns, air-to-air missiles and GPS- and laser-guided bombs

The further five F-35 Lightning jets have landed in their new permanent British home after being flown from the US

The jets made their way over the Atlantic from the US in an eight-hour journey to their new home at RAF Marham

'With the essential support of civilian and industrial colleagues, the Lightning Force will continue to grow over the coming years and will play a fundamental role in defending UK interests from land and sea for decades to come.'

It comes as military personnel were warned about the dangers of social media after an RAF airwoman's Tinder profile was hacked in an apparent espionage plot.

An unknown spy took control of her account and used it to try to manipulate a serviceman into disclosing secrets about the F-35Bs. Operatives with allegiance to either Russia or China are thought to be the most likely culprits.

The F-35 stealth jets have a range of 1,300 miles and carry gatling guns, air-to-air missiles and GPS- and laser-guided bombs. They are behing housed at Marham, which has had a 200million upgrade.

In June, former Rolls-Royce engineer Bryn Jones, 73, was arrested amid fears secret information about the F-35 jets had been passed to Beijing. He was held by Scotland Yard detectives under the Official Secrets Act.
A son who 'unfairly' claimed his mother's last boyfriend was just a 'lodger' inher home has been ordered to hand him more than half his 725,000 inheritance.

James Campbell, 35, said mother Sarah, who died during a flight to the Canary Islands in 2015, told him her estate was 'all yours', promising him everything she had when she died.

Under her will almost all of Mrs Campbell's fortune went to her son but her partner of 20 years Andrew Banfield, 66, challenged that as 'unreasonable' after their lengthy relationship leading to a bitter High Court battle.

Under her will almost all of Mrs Campbell's fortune went to her son but Mr Banfield, 66, challenged that as 'unreasonable' after a 20-year relationship.

James Campbell, left, has been ordered to hand over more than half of his late mother's 725,000 inheritance to her partner of 20 years Andrew Banfield, right, after the 66-year-old successfully challenged the will in court

He said they lived as 'husband and wife' in her Thames Ditton home for over a decade and he was 'due a payout' to buy a new house to live out his days.

Mr Campbell claimed the relationship was not as close stated and that his mother was unhappy with Mr Banfield's 'sedentary' lifestyle and that he was more like a 'lodger' to her.

Mr Campbell, an only child, had 'an extremely close and loving relationship' with his parent, who raised him alone after his father died of cancer when he was 10-year-old, the High Court heard.

But the judge sided with the pensioner and ordered Mr Campbell to handover more than half his inheritance to Mr Banfield.

Judge Paul Teverson said Mr Banfield suffered from disabilities which made the relationship 'more burdensome' for Mrs Campbell in later years.

But, ruling that Mr Banfield lived with the 63-year-old as her 'husband', he continued: 'I do not think it right or fair to characterise Mr Banfield as being no more than a lodger.

'The relationship between the deceased and Mr Banfield continued to contain an element of mutual support, with the deceased making it clear to her close friends that she did not want to be on her own.'

The couple knew each other from the local area and started a relationship in 1993 after the death of Mrs Campbell's husband, Neil Campbell.

Mr Banfield claimed they became engaged in 1999, but the son denied there was ever an engagement.

The relationship, although at first romantic, was more akin to lodger and landlady as the years went on, he claimed.

They slept separately, with 'sedentary and obese' Mr Banfield spending nights in the living room on a chair, he said.

'My mother was the life and soul of every party and had a very active social life, which disappeared around when Andy moved in,' said the son.

His mother wanted him to have everything when she died, said Mr Campbell, and only wished to see him happily settled down with a family of his own.

The judge said that after his mother's sudden death Mr Campbell had 'acted in a caring manner' towards Mr Banfield, recognising their mutual loss.

But he later made it clear he wanted him out of the house and the relationship between the men 'broke down entirely'.

'The circumstances of the present case provide an example of the vulnerable position in which co-habitants find themselves if they unexpectedly survive their partner,' he added.

Mr Banfield, pictured, said through his solicitors that he was 'very relieved' at the ruling and now 'has a home for life'

'Mr Banfield said in evidence he had known about the will but not been troubled by it as 'in the natural order' he expected to depart first.'

The judge found that, by 2001, Mr Banfield and Mrs Campbell were openly living together on a permanent basis.

And although they did not plan to marry, he said: 'I am satisfied that in the sense of a commitment to each other, they became engaged.'

She had complained to friends about having to do everything for Mr Banfield, but she was not willing to end the relationship, he continued.

She told friends she did not want to be on her own and 'needed to be needed'.

He continued: 'At the time of the deceased's death, she and Mr Banfield were going away on holiday together. Since the death of Mr Banfield's mother, they had been able to afford to do this twice a year.

'There is no doubt that Mr Banfield was shocked by the sudden death of the deceased. He returned from Portugal - where the flight had been diverted - on the next day with her body.

'Mr Banfield had himself made a will in 2009 leaving 50 per cent of his estate to the deceased, with the remaining 50 per cent being divided between his nieces and a nephew.

'This is consistent with a committed relationship.'

He ordered that Mrs Campbell's house be sold for at least 725,000 and half the proceeds invested in a home for Mr Banfield, which will revert to Mr Campbell on his death.

Mr Campbell was also ordered to pay 50,000 towards Mr Banfield's court costs from his own share of the estate.

Mr Banfield's solicitor Juliet Petchey, of Howell-Jones Solicitors, said later: 'Mr Banfield is very relieved that this litigation and in particular the trial has been successfully concluded.

'After the trauma of prematurely losing Sarah, his beloved partner of 20 years, Mr Banfield had no wish to undergo this distressing litigation.

'He is most grateful to the court for providing such a detailed, reasoned judgment in his favour, which now means that he will have a home for life.'
PC Dean Roberts, 48, filmed himself abusing the 'helpless' infant

A vile police officer was jailed for 16 years for raping a baby - after being caught by his own colleagues.

PC Dean Roberts, 48, filmed himself abusing the 'helpless' infant - and sent the footage to other paedophiles on a messaging app.

The former officer with South Wales Police was caught after another paedophile was arrested - and detectives traced child abuse footage back to their own colleague Roberts.

Cardiff Crown Court heard the pair planned to jointly abuse children and would share footage of their crimes.

Roberts admitted rape, sexual assault of a child, possessing and distributing indecent images of children.

The mother of Roberts' victim told the court: 'I can never forget the knock on my door and my whole world just falling apart.

'It was just like being hit by a bus. We will always have to live with the consequences.'

Judge Recorder of Cardiff Eleri Rees QC, handed Roberts a 16-year extended sentence and told him he must serve at least 12 years behind bars.

She said: 'The victim was particularly vulnerable because of her extremely young age.

'She was helpless to defend herself although the footage indicates she was awake and in real discomfort.'

His accomplice, lawyer John Guess, of Cardiff, was earlier jailed for 26 years for sex offences against children.

The top Welsh Government lawyer, 43, was sentenced on Monday after he preyed on young girls then shared pictures and videos of his abuse on the internet with other paedophiles.

Guess - who was a senior lawyer advising the Welsh Government on legal matters - abused two girls as they slept and filmed the attacks to share with twisted online fiends.

A court heard he also took photos of children getting changed at swimming pools or on the beach and up the skirts of girls as they walked to school.

Prosecutor James Wilson said: He has a long standing sexual interest in young girls.

He was deeply involved with other like-minded individuals on social media and they shared child abuse images.

He was part of a network of like-minded individuals who would use the Kik messenger groups and there were a number of discussions about their shared interest in abusing children.

John Guess, of Cardiff, was earlier jailed for 26 years for sex offences against children

Mr Wilson said that in one chat Guess was sent a picture of two young girls in swimsuits by another paedophile.

He replied: That first one would be great to rape.

Guess, formerly of Cardiff but later of Trowbridge, Wiltshire, is a named author on Welsh Government reports as a legal advisor in his role as a senior lawyer.

Mr Wilson said: He had the intellect and capacity to seek help but he did not.

Cardiff Crown Court heard a victim impact statement from a mother of one of Guess's victims who said her daughter was having to see a therapist to deal with the effects of his crimes.

She said: I was initially numb with the shock and horror - that numbness has been replaced with considerable sadness and anger. He was able to prey upon my daughter.

Guess admitted 36 charges including sexual assault of a child, assault by penetration, possessing and distributing indecent images of children, inciting a child into sexual activity, aiding and abetting a child into sexual exploitation and possessing extreme porn.

Peter Rouch QC, defending, said: These offences were opportunistic and there was no significant degree of planning.

His life is in shreds. He has lost his professional status and his employment prospects.

Guess, of Cardiff, was sentence to 26 years and told he must serve at least 20 of them behind bars.

Judge, Recorder of Cardiff Eleri Rees, told him: You have held a perverted interest in young girls since you were a young man.

Over the course of ten years you harvested a large collection of indecent images. They were organised into collections in a considered and calculated fashion.

You have become a sexual predator, taking advantage of any opportunity to take indecent images of children.

Had you not been arrested it would only be a matter of time and opportunity that you would proceed to rape children.

You seek to corrupt children by inciting them to engage online in sexual activity for your own gratification.

You have become accustomed to ignoring the normal social boundaries and taboos which might inhibit others.

After the case, a Welsh Government spokesperson said: The individual concerned is no longer employed by the Welsh Government.

Speaking after the sentences of Roberts and Guess, Detective Superintendent Wendy Gunney said: 'The two people responsible for the appalling abuse of a number of very young children have now been brought to justice.

'The investigation uncovered extremely disturbing child abuse evidence.

'The safeguarding of children has been an absolute priority for the investigation team.

'Today's sentence does not mark the end of our investigations and we will work tirelessly to identify any other victims or witnesses and seek the justice they deserve.'
Fired PBS anchor Charlie Rose is hoping to delay his response to a sexual harassment lawsuit because he is recovering from major abdominal surgery.

Rose, who also underwent major heart surgery to replace a valve in 2017, revealed he'd fallen ill unexpectedly and had to be hospitalized last month.

The 76-year-old has now filed an extension request as part of an ongoing lawsuit which accuses him of sexual harassing three former CBS News staffers.

'Rose unexpectedly fell ill on July 12, 2018, was hospitalized on July 15, and underwent major surgery on July 17,' court documents, filed by his attorneys state.

Charlie Rose (above in November) is hoping to delay his response to a sexual harassment lawsuit because he is recovering from major abdominal surgery

His attorneys claim Rose needs at least six weeks to recover from the abdominal surgery, The Blast reports.

'Mr. Rose's recent hospitalization and recovery has left him unable to devote the time necessary to work with counsel or prepare a defense to the claims,' the attorney explains.

A judge has not yet ruled on whether to grant the extension.

Rose has battled with his health for the past two decades. In 2002, he had elective open-heart surgery he had to repair a faulty valve, replacing it with a pig valve.

Then on March 29, 2006, after experiencing shortness of breath while reporting in Syria, Rose was flown to Paris for emergency surgery to repair his mitral valve in the Georges-Pompidou European Hospital.

In February 2017, Rose underwent another surgery to replace that same valve, this time with a cow valve.

Plantiffs: The women - Brooks Harris (right), Sydney McNeal (left) and Chelsea Wei are suing Rose over alleged sexual harassment

During an appearance on the Stephen Colbert Show last year, Rose joked: 'I've got a pig and a cow competing to send blood to my heart.'

The surgery was performed in early February, and Rose was back hosting at CBS in March. He was then fired in November following multiple accusations of sexual harassment.

The disgraced former anchor was sued by three former female staffers, all in their mid-20s, in May.

Brooks Harris, Sydney McNeal and Chelsea Wei claimed that Rose would constantly kiss female staffers, caress their thighs, waist, arms and legs, and showed a keen interest in having them detail their sex lives.

Their lawsuit, filed in New York Supreme Court in May, also reveals that Rose continued to contact the women who had accused him of sexual harassment by both phone and on email after he was fired by CBS.

'For example, on or about November 24, 2017, Mr. Rose sent an email to Ms. Wei stating, among other items, 'my relationship with you is the man I am in all my relationships,'' states the court filing.

The complaint also claims that Rose told his staff 'words to the effect of 'some of the stories are true'' after the first expose was published by The Washington Post.

Denial: Rose has called the allegations 'unfair' and 'inaccurate' (Rose and CBS THis Morning executive producer Ryan Kadro above)

The three women are asking that they be awarded consequential, compensatory and punitive damages from Rose, CBS News Communications and CBS News.

This relief is sought one count of discrimination and harassment and a second count of retaliation.

Mr. Rose suggested to Ms. Harris and Ms. McNeal that they have sex with each other and told them words to the effect of, 'You just need to become lovers already,' indicating that he was having sexual fantasies about them. -Complaint

One section of the complaint provides 14 examples of what the three women claim is 'unlawful conduct' by Rose.

'Mr. Rose repeatedly sexually touched Plaintiffs, including without limitation caressing and touching their arms, shoulders, waist and back, pulling them close to his body, and kissing them on the cheek,' reads one example.

Two of the plaintiffs (McNeal and Harris) also accuse Rose of 'placing his hands on her thigh and kissing her cheek' while dining out with the host.

'Mr. Rose repeatedly boasted of his sexual conquests, telling Plaintiffs words to the effect of 'you should have seen the women that I was with when I was younger,'' reads another example stated in the complaint.

'Mr. Rose suggested to Ms. Harris and Ms. McNeal that they have sex with each other and told them words to the effect of, 'You just need to become lovers already,' indicating that he was having sexual fantasies about them.'

Wei meanwhile was allegedly referred to as 'China Girl' by Rose according to court papers, in which the young woman also says Rose 'caressed [her] arms when she handed him papers and would say 'I love the way you do that.''

The three women also share alleged instances of verbal abuse involving Rose in the complaint.

'I didn't know that I hired a f***ing kindergartner,' Rose allegedly told Harris at one point.

McNeal claims Rose told her 'you can't be a f***ing idiot and have this job.'

And Wei was allegedly called a 'f***ing idiot' for booking a flight on a plane that did not have flat folding seats despite claiming she had informed Rose of this fact.

Harris claims that Rose began showing an interest in her after she began working the early morning shift at CBS News.

She says that Rose began taking her to expensive lunches where he would wine and dine her before eventually offering her a spot on 60 Minutes.

Rose continued to seek to contact Plaintiffs by telephone and e-mail. For example, on or about November 24, 2017, Mr. Rose sent an e-mail to Ms. Wei stating, among other items, 'my relationship with you is the man I am in all my relationships' -Complaint

At the same time, Wei said that she became nervous about these lunches, and decided to speak with her boss, CBS This Morning's executive producer Ryan Kadro.

'I'm telling you in case you have a lawsuit on your hand,' Wei said she told Kadro at the time.

Kadro, who is still the executive producer of CBS This Morning, downplayed these claims when reached for comment by the Post.

'Ms. Wei did not tell me about inappropriate behavior by Charlie Rose towards Ms. Harris at any time,' said Kadro.

He also stated that he had no recollection of the word 'lawsuit' being used by Wei.

Harris was eventually given a job on Rose's PBS show, and soon after she began the new position Rose began to make comments about her and another female employee, McNeal.

Hardwork: Rose is seen interviewing Steve Bannon in one of his last 60 Minutes pieces for CBS this past September (above)

Rose once suggested the two have sex according to both women, and made a comment about them swimming naked in his pool.

McNeal said that working for Rose was 'toxic,' adding that her job 'made me question my intelligence, dignity and worth as a human being almost every day.'

Harris also that just this past July she was out getting drinks with Rose at Cirpirani following an event when he repeatedly tried to get her to come up to his apartment, an offer she declined by making up an excuse to leave.

CHARLIE ROSE LAWSUIT DETAILS HOST'S ALLEGED MISCONDUCT Mr. Rose advised Ms. Harris and Ms. McNeal that they were hired because he likes "tall women," i.e., he was attracted to them Ms. Harris wore a mini skirt with images of roses on it and Mr. Rose advised Ms. Harris that the roses on her skirt are his roses. Mr. Rose repeatedly sexually touched Plaintiffs, including without limitation caressing and touching their arms, shoulders, waist and back, pulling them close to his body, and kissing them on the cheek Mr. Rose repeatedly required Ms. Harris to have lunch and/or dinner with him and, during those occasions, Mr. Rose sexually touched Ms. Harris, including placing his hands on her thigh and kissing her cheek. He pointed at other women and called them prostitutes. Mr. Rose required Ms. McNeal to join him and Ms. Harris for dinner and Mr. Rose sexually touched Ms. McNeal, including placing his hands on her thigh and kissing her cheek. Mr. Rose repeatedly asked Ms. Harris and Ms. McNeal about their sex lives and directed them to share details with him. Mr. Rose repeatedly boasted of his sexual conquests, telling Plaintiffs words to the effect of you should have seen the women that I was with when I was younger. Mr. Rose suggested to Ms. Harris and Ms. McNeal that they have sex with each other and told them words to the effect of, You just need to become lovers already, indicating that he was having sexual fantasies about them. Mr. Rose ordered Ms. Harris and Ms. McNeal to visit his home in Bellport, N.Y., allegedly for an errand. He told them I better not hear any stories about two young women swimming naked together in his swimming pool, indicating that he was having sexual fantasies about them. Mr. Rose referred to Ms. Wei as China Doll, a fetish term. Mr. Rose caressed Ms. Weis arms when she handed him papers and would say I love the way you do that. Mr. Rose whispered, in Ms. Weis ear, in a sexual manner, Happy Birthday Dear. Mr. Rose, while at the CBS Studios, insisted on kissing his three female subordinates, including Ms. Wei, before leaving for a Summer vacation. Mr. Rose demanded that Ms. Harris to come to his apartment late at night. Advertisement

She lost her job four months later when the first allegations against Rose came out, a job that she claims Kadro urged her to take at the time.

The complaint filled on Friday states: 'Ms. Harris advised Mr. Kadro of Rose's offer.

'Upon information and belief, Mr. Kadro knew that Mr. Rose had a history of sexual harassment, but did not warn Ms. Harris about him.

'Instead, Mr. Kadro encouraged Ms. Harris to accept Rose's offer.'

Harris and McNeal were both left without a job in the wake of the allegations against Rose, while Wei is still employed at CBS.

She claims that the environment there has been hostile though ever since she shared her story with human resources back in November.

'On or about November 30, 2017, Ms. Wei filed a complaint with Ms. Cottone (Human Resources, CBS) against Mr. Rose and Mr. Kadro,' states the complaint.

Wei claims that nothing came of the complaint, and she subsequently began to be placed in a series of jobs that were beneath her abilities and experience.

The complaint states that Wei's health began to deteriorate because of her situation at CBS, and that on March 1 she was forced to take a leave of absence for medical reasons.

Wei and Harris were also allegedly contacted by CBS in mid-March.

'Upon information and belief, CBS did so to deter Plaintiffs from pursuing claims,' reads the filing.

'Upon information and belief, at various other times, CBS: (a) discriminated against and harassed other female employees; (b) retaliated against other employees that engaged in protected activity, and (c) intimidated and/or threatened victims of discrimination and retaliation to deter them from pursuing their protected legal rights as victims.'

The news of Rose's firing was revealed last November in an interview memo sent to staffers by CBS News president David Rhodes, who stated that 'there is absolutely nothing more important, in this or any organization, than ensuring a safe, professional workplace.'

Rhodes also said: 'I've also heard that things used to be different. And no one can change the past.

'But what may once have been accepted should not ever have been acceptable.'

Rhodes went on to explain the reason behind the network's decision.

'CBS News has reported on extraordinary revelations at other media companies this year and last,' said Rhodes.

'Our credibility in that reporting requires credibility managing basic standards of behavior. That is why we have taken these actions.'

Rose was initially suspended from the network when the Post first published the accounts of eight women who claimed they were sexually harassed or assaulted by the journalist. That was followed by additional allegations from five other women.

By the end of that week the number had grown to 17 women and Rose was out of a job.

He is now being accused of sexual harassment by at least 35 women.

The women claims that Rose exposed himself to them, groped their buttocks and breasts and in one case asked that a young woman 'ride him' in his hotel room.

A number of women also claim that they told executives at CBS about his behavior, including Chris Licht (the former executive producer of CBS This Morning) and Ryan Kadro (the current executive producer of CBS This Morning).

Rose responded to the new allegations by saying: 'Your story is unfair and inaccurate.'
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Our connected world has brought modern ways and technology to even the furthest corners, but what many would view as positive progress has also put rural and remote tribes and their traditions at risk of extinction.

This photo series shows men, women and children of some of the indigenous people of Africa and Asia, and their traditional methods of achieving their idea of beauty.

This includes the tattooed former headhunters of northeastern India, the women of Ethiopia's Mursi tribe who stretch their bottom lips with clay discs, and the neighbouring Hamer people who create stunning beaded clothing.

Tradition: Teenage girls of the Hamer, or Hamar people, a tribe that can be found living in the Omo River valley in Ethiopia

Disappearing: Two members of the Konyak tribe, which can be found in north eastern India, sport facial tattoos, which are only awarded to Konyak men who have taken an enemy's head

Female members of Ethiopia's Mursi tribe, which number less than 10,000, wear large clay discs in their lower lips

Other remarkable photographs show a woman from the Himba tribe in Namibia wearing traditional headdress and both men and women from the Kalinga tribe in the Philippines with tribal tattoos all over their body.

The striking shots were taken by Polish photographer Adam Koziol who has travelled the world documenting tribes.

'I would like to show the beauty of the cultures and the variety of origins of the people all over the world,' he said.

'Most of the tribes have lost their culture, being assimilated into modern world and now it is just history. Now there are only signs like tattoos or scarification which mean that this person was one of the tribes member. These people can tell something about this culture - how was it before.'

One of the tribes photographed by Mr Koziol are the Mursi, which numbers less than 10,000, and live in the Omo Valley in Ethiopia.

A lot on their plate: Mursi women traditionally begin wearing a lip disc in adolescence, and often carve their own patterns and designs into their clay or wooden plates

The Mentawai people live on the Indonesian islands of the same name, and are known for their decorative tattoos and the practise of sharpening their teeth, which they believe make them more attractive to the opposite sex

Stunning: Women on Ethiopia's Karo people, with white clay paint on their faces and labret piercings

Hidden beauty: A woman from the Himba tribe, who live in northern Namibia. From puberty Himba women braid their hair and veneer each one with clay and red soil, and use the same mixture to paint their bodies red

They are known for the large clay discs many of the women wear in their bottom lip. The lip-plate is a coming-of-age process for women in the Mursi tribe, with a teenage girl traditionally having her bottom lip pierced at around age 15.

The cut is plugged with a piece of wood, and once this initial piercing has healed, the girl can begin stretching her lip with clay or wooden discs.

Not far from the Mursi live the Hamer, also spelled Hamar, who use clay and fat to create their distinctive hairstyles, and decorate their clothes with colourful beads.

Another Omo Valley tribe is the Karo. Karo people use white clay to paint their bodies, starting anew every morning, creating everything from animal patterns to stars, spots and flowers on their skin.

The Karo people, left, decorate their bodies with white chalk, while the Mentawai from Indonesia use tattoos and - although not seen in this image - they also sharpen their teeth

Beauty: The Hamer tribe use clay and fat to create their distinctive hairstyles, and decorate their clothes with colourful beads

Dying out: Two elderly Kalinga people, from the northern Philippines, show off the tattoos covering their upper bodies

Fighting spirit: The Iban, also known as Sea Dayaks, mostly live in the Malaysian state of Sarawak, and used to be known as a fearsome warrior tribe

Mr Koziol has so far documented 18 tribes in Africa and Asia, but has a list of 50 more he wants to reach in future.

'I think it was the first tribe I managed to take some pictures of, the Iban tribe, who left the biggest impression on me,' added Koziol.

'Apart from that, it was a great adventure for me to be around the Mentawai people in Siberut Island next to Sumatra. It is a unique shamanic culture shrouded in mystery.

'I also felt amazingly good in the Konyak tribe in India, the culture of the former headhunters, who converted to Christianity.'
A man has been arrested after he reportedly stole a Coles delivery truck in Sydney's inner west.

The driver, who is believed to be aged in his 20s, drove off with the supermarket food delivery van in Ashfield at about 6.45pm Tuesday.

New South Wales Police told Daily Mail Australia officers arrested the man after a 'collision with a few cars'.

A man has been arrested after he reportedly stole a Coles truck in Ashfield, Sydney's inner west, at about 6.45pm Tuesday (pictured)

The truck crashed into several cars along Liverpool Road near Frederick Street.

Coles is located about one kilometre away from where the van crashed however it is unknown where the truck was stolen from.

Police said officers arrested the van driver after a 'collision with few cars' (stock image)

The delivery truck appeared to be facing oncoming traffic and crashed into a small Mazda.

A number of emergency crews arrived at the scene before 7pm and it is unknown if anyone was seriously injured.

No charges have yet been laid.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Coles for comment.
A family dog has been shot during a dramatic police arrest of a 14-year-old 'autistic' boy who had allegedly breached his bail.

Footage was released by the family showing the dog lying on the ground in a pool of blood at the home in Taree, New South Wales on Monday night.

Police allege that a 36-year-old woman assaulted an officer with a metal curtain rod during the incident and she was charged.

A pitbull cross breed of dog has been shot during a dramatic arrest at at a home in Taree, New South Wales

In a post to social media, one family member said police 'pepper sprayed' family members and then pulled out a gun and shot the dog.

'He's just pulled out the gun, and bang,' one member of the family told 7 News.

Another family member said: 'I was trying to pull him back and all I heard was a gun shot...and I felt how it went past me, into him.'

Police said the dog was shot after the animal bit an officer, and 'after an unsuccessful attempt to physically remove the dog'.

But police say the dog was shot after the animal bit an officer, and was shot 'after an unsuccessful attempt to physically remove the dog

The officers raced the pit bull cross to a nearby vet, and he survived as the bullet missed his brain by about one centimetre.

The injured policeman was taken to hospital with 'deep puncture wounds to his legs,' police said.

Police confirmed OC pepper spray was deployed, in a statement provided to Daily Mail Australia.

The 14-year-old boy had been charged with breach of bail and resisting arrest, and was due to appear in court on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the 36-year-old woman was charged with assaulting police and resisting arrest, and will appear in court on August 28.
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Remarkable images providing a window into wartime Britain have shown how British troops sunk a German U-Boat - before attempting to restore it as our own fighting unit.

The U-Boat 110, a German Submarine that was sunk and raised in the First World War in 1918 was dragged back to Newcastle and kept in dry dock.

The incredible images, as revealed by website Retronaut, show the U-Boat in its entirety in a dry dock as well as a close-up view of its exterior.

The twin-screw German submarine 110, built by Blohm & Voss, Hamburg, was sunk when attacking a convoy of merchant ships near Hartlepool, on the 19th July 1918.





She was attacked by HM Motor-Launch No. 263 and suffered from depth charges.

Coming to the surface she was rammed by HMS Garry, a torpedo boat destroyer, and sunk.

In September of the same year she was salvaged and placed in the admiralty dock off Jarrow slake. She was then berthed at Swan Hunters dry docks department with an order to restore her as a fighting unit.

The control room looking forward to port side shows a complex tangle of handles which would be difficult to navigate

U-Boat 110 in dry dock: The British had ambitions of using the boat against its maker by refurbishing it and sending it back to sea - this time manned with UK troops

The damage which was done to the inside of the boat in the control room during the conflict was documented. The U-Boat was salvaged in Newcastle during World War One a hundred years ago with a view to restoring it as a fighting unit

Baskets and collapsing side units are spotted alongside the wooden interior of the u-boat which was docked in Newcastle

The album is from 1918 and documents the UB 110 before she was scrapped on the dry docks of Swan Hunter Wigham Richardson Ltd, Wallsend.

Striking shots uncover the inner workings of the German submarine with hundreds of control dials along the walls, four torpedo tubes and a narrow passage running from room to room.

They are taken from an album of photographs found in the Swan Hunter shipbuilders collection at Tyne & Wear Archives.

The control dials on the walls are accompanied with war time pressure monitors which were used by sailors in the German focres

The remarkable photographs of the boat were found in the Swan Hunter shipbuildersi collection at Tyne & Wear Archives

The twin-screw German submarine 110 was built by Blohm & Voss, Hamburg, and features four bow torpedo tubes and forward hydroplane

The inner workings of the u-Boat: On the 19th July 1918, when attacking a convoy of merchant ships near Hartlepool, she herself was attacked by H.M. Motor-Launch No. 263 and suffered from depth charges. Coming to the surface she was rammed by H.M.S. Garry, a torpedo boat destroyer, and sunk

The Armistice on 11th November 1918 caused work on her to be stopped. She was towed on the 19th December 1918 from Wallsend to the Northumberland Dock at Howdon and was subsequently sold as scrap

Four Torpedo Tubes can be seen inside the mighty boat. The remarkable photographs provide a rare glimpse into the mechanics and atmosphere of the raised German submarine.

The Armistice on 11th November 1918 caused work on her to be stopped. She was towed on the 19th December 1918 from Wallsend to the Northumberland Dock at Howdon and was subsequently sold as scrap.

The album of photographs, taken by Frank & Sons of South Shields, documents the UB 110 in extensive detail. The photographs provide an insight into the mechanics and atmosphere of the raised German submarine.
A man who repeatedly raped a woman he met on Facebook while he held her captive for three days has been sentenced to more than seven years in jail.

Karl David William Baudoeuf, 33, started messaging the woman on Facebook in 2014 but under the fake identity of Pete Bundy.

Baudoeuf and the woman only met two years later when they arranged to go to a music festival, Southbound Festival in Busselton, Western Australia in 2016.

A man Karl David William Baudoeuf, 33, who repeatedly raped a woman he met on Facebook while he held her captive for three days has been jailed for more than seven years

Baudoeuf and the woman decided to meet face-to-face two years later when they arranged to go to a music festival, Southbound Festival (pictured) in Western Australia in 2016

After the festival they drove back to his home where they took drugs and had sex which the woman had consented to, WA District Court heard on Tuesday.

Justice Vicki Stewart said at that time they had got along and the woman called him 'Mr Wonderful,' ABC reports.

But Baudoeuf turned the next day and after the two fought, he imprisoned the woman in his home for days and repeatedly sexually and violently assaulting her.

The woman managed to escape after three days as her captor slept.

She sustained many injuries including a black eye, broken nose and bruised temple.

Baudoeuf was found guilty of six offences including sexual penetration without consent, deprivation of liberty and assault occasioning bodily harm.

Baudoeuf denied all charges in court, a move which Judge xxxx Stewart said showed his lack of remorse and willingness to accept responsibility for his vile actions.

He was sentenced to at least five years and four months in prison before he can be eligible for parole

The Judge said Baudoeuf's actions were persistent against a vulnerable victim in the way he asserted control and power over her.

'She feared for her safety,' Judge Stewart said.

Baudoeuf had a history of drug use and mental health problems, the court heard.

The justice also urged Baudoeuf to stop taking drugs and continue his rehabilitation programs in prison.

Baudoeuf, who appeared in court via video link from prison, buried his face in his hands during proceedings and cried when his sentence was handed down.

He was sentenced to seven years and four months in jail. Baudoeuf will be eligible for parole after five years and four months.

He was also given a lifetime restraining order to the victim.
Indonesian authorities are charging stranded tourists to be rescued off some of the islands hit by Sunday's devastating earthquake, a witness has claimed.

Tourists desperate to reach safety have reportedly been seen fighting each other to get onto rescue vessels, which are said to be leaving half empty with 'selected' evacuees.

The magnitude 7.0 quake has taken at least 105 lives, seriously injured more than 230 people and destroyed thousands of buildings on Lombok and nearby islands.

Tourists have reportedly been fighting each other to get onto rescue vessels on Gili Islands, Indonesia, which are said to be leaving half empty with 'selected' evacuees

Tourists line up on a beach as they wait to be evacuated on Gili Trawangan Island, Indonesia, yesterday in the wake of the earthquake

Some 4,600 tourists have been evacuated from the Gili Islands, three tiny, coral-fringed tropical islands popular with backpackers and divers.

However, hundreds remain, and have crowded onto its powder-white beaches desperately awaiting transport by boat, however, witnesses say only some are allowed off the islands.

British tourist Katy Flay, 33, said local authorities demanded payment before allowing weary and shaken visitors onto rescue boats.

'We have tried to get on many boats. Boats [are] leaving half empty as you need a ticket,' she told her brother according to The Guardian.

'No boats for everyone, just selected people. People are punching and hitting each other.'

Evacuated tourists arrive from nearby Gili Trawangan island at the port at Bangsal in northern Lombok on Tuesday, two days after the area was struck by an earthquake

Officials said more than 2,000 people had been evacuated from the three Gili islands off the northwest coast of Lombok

Aided: A foreign tourist is given assistance as evacuated tourists arrive from nearby Gili Trawangan island at the port at Bangsal in northern Lombok on Tuesday

Two days after the quake, rescuers are still struggling to reach all the affected areas and authorities say they expect the death toll to rise.

It had previously been reported that as many as 142 people had died in the quake, but the latest confirmed number is closer to 100.

Aid organizations, already on Lombok following last week's 6.4 quake said they were stepping up their humanitarian efforts.

Oxfam said more than 20,000 people were in temporary shelters and thousands more were camping out in the open.

Indonesian police and soldiers evacuate a victim at the broken hospital following earthquake in Tanjung

Indonesian police and volunteers unload supplies as authorities continue to evacuate tourists from nearby Gili Trawangan island, at the port at Bangsal in northern Lombok

It said clean drinking water was scarce because of a recent spell of extremely dry weather in Lombok. Food, medical supplies, tarpaulins and clothes are also urgently needed, it said.

Tourists continue to leave Lombok, fearing further earthquakes, some on extra flights that were laid on by airlines and some on ferries to Bali.

The tremors in Lombok on Sunday came just one week after a powerful 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck the popular Indonesian tourist destination, killing 16 people and injuring at least 162.

Over 5,000 people were displaced after being forced to evacuate.
English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson leaves Onley Prison near Rugby after being freed on bail last Wednesday

Instagram has reactivated English Defence League founder Tommy Robinsons account, explaining that it had been mistakenly removed after a complaint.

Earlier today the Far-Right activist claimed on his Facebook page that his Instagram account had been 'deleted' and that 'Facebook will soon close us down'.

Robinson, 35, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, was released from jail on conditional bail last week after judges quashed a contempt of court finding against him.

Alongside his Facebook message, he posted an image which showed what appeared to be his Instagram page displaying the message 'user not found'.

An Instagram spokesperson told MailOnline: The account @realtommyrobinson was removed in error and has since been reactivated.

Robinson, who widely uses social media to speak to supporters, was banned from Twitter in March for breaching the social media platform's rules on hateful content.

Alongside his Facebook message, he posted an image which showed what appeared to be his Instagram page displaying the message 'user not found'

Supporters of Robinson gather outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London last Wednesday after he was freed on bail after winning a challenge against a finding of contempt of court

Robinson also used his Facebook page to criticise social media networks for taking down pages and accounts Right-wing conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and his Infowars platform

He also posted on Facebook today: 'Imagine EE, Three, O2 and Vodafone all got together and started listening to what you were saying in conversations on your mobile phone.

'They decided they did not like what you were saying so they all blocked you from their network effectively removing your ability to communicate.

Who is conspiracy theorist Alex Jones? Alex Jones is a controversial radio and podcast host based in Austin, Texas. The Right-wing conspiracy theorist says his 'InfoWars' shows, which are broadcast on various platforms, reach at least 70million people a week. Among other claims, he has called the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School mass shooting a hoax. He was sued for defamation by families of some of the children killed in that attack, which left 20 children and six adults dead. He now admits it occurred, but said his claims were free speech. He has tried to have the lawsuit dismissed. Jones has also claimed that the 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington were staged by the US government. While he began broadcasting his shows in 1999, Jones's profile has spread from the far-Right fringe in recent years. While running for US president in 2015, Donald Trump told Jones his reputation was 'amazing.' Advertisement

'If this started happening to people, there would be uproar. Well that is exactly what Facebook, Youtube, Apple and Spotify just did to Alex Jones and Infowars.

'It does not matter if you agree or disagree with Alex Jones, this is forcible suppression of opposition voices that predominantly Left-wing silicon valley do not agree with - or 'fascism' as it is better known!'

MailOnline understands that his Instagram account was reported to for violating community guidelines for alleged bullying and was mistakenly removed.

People can report posts or content that makes them feel uncomfortable via Instagrams in-app tools, as there is a team of reviewers working 24/7 to remove anything that is considered in violation of its policies.

The community operations team reviews millions of reports a week.

Last week, three leading judges in London quashed a contempt of court finding against Robinson made at Leeds Crown Court in May.

They granted him conditional bail from a 13-month jail sentence, pending new proceedings at the Old Bailey.

Robinson could still face jail over the allegation he committed contempt of court by filming people in a criminal trial and broadcasting footage on social media.

His post came a day after tech firms, including Facebook, Apple, Spotify and YouTube, removed pages and accounts linked to Right-wing conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and his Infowars platform, citing breaches of site rules on hate speech.

Robinson's post came a day after tech firms removed pages and accounts linked to Alex Jones (pictured) and his Infowars platform, citing breaches of site rules on hate speech

Robinson posted a link on Facebook to an article about him being banned from Instagram

Robinson (left) leaves Onley Prison last week after he was freed on bail by the Court of Appeal

Earlier this year, Facebook also removed the official page of far-Right group Britain First, as well as those of leaders Paul Golding and Jayda Fransen.

Timeline of Tommy Robinson in prison May 25: Robinson is jailed for 13 months for contempt of court after Facebook Live protest outside a trial in Leeds May 27: Sentence sparks protests in London including outside Downing Street June 9: Free Tommy Robinson march in Whitehall turns violent with 21 police officers hurt when bottles are hurled July 18: Robinson launches appeal against his sentence August 1: Judges order his release and say he must face new hearing September 27: A new contempt of court case at the Old Bailey is adjourned after Judge Nicholas Hilliard QC asks for written submissions from all parties October 23: After considering submissions, judge says case is 'too complex' and evidence must be considered by Attorney General The Attorney General's office confirms it will look at the case and decide whether to stage a High Court hearing Advertisement

Facebook said at the time this was a response to repeated violations of its rules.

Outside the Court of Appeal in Central London last Wednesday, rival groups of Robinson supporters and 'Stand Up To Racism' protesters repeatedly chanted after he was released.

Shadow chancellor John McDonnell cited the Robinson protests last week when he warned a second referendum on Brexit could fuel the rise of the far right.

He said his greatest fear with a second vote would be the 'rise of the xenophobic right', adding: 'We've already seen that on the Tommy Robinson marches, which has been on a scale that has shocked people and certainly surprised people.

'I think there's a real problem. It could be really dangerous if you split the country again and allow that xenophobic right to exploit the issue again.'

Q&A: What did Tommy Robinson do wrong and why was he freed? The far-Right activist allegedly twice tried to film Asian defendants in sensitive sex cases while the trials were under way, first in Canterbury in May 2017, and in Leeds in May 2018. Both judges said this was contempt of court as it could prevent a fair trial. What is contempt of court? Contempt, defined by a complicated series of laws, is activity that undermines a fair trial or defies the orders of a judge. It can bring a two-year jail term. What was his punishment? In Leeds, Judge Geoffrey Marson QC ruled that Robinson's contempt was serious and committed him to prison for 13 months. Robinson, pictured outside London's Old Bailey in October 2018 Why did the crown court judge get it wrong? The appeal judges said the judge in Leeds got one thing right  he persuaded Robinson to take his film down from Facebook. But after that things went wrong. Judge Marson acted too hastily, they said. Robinson was given no chance to admit or deny contempt. His punishment was handed down within five hours of the contempt of which he was accused. The judge showed 'some muddle'. What happens now? The appeal judges said the finding of contempt in Leeds must be quashed, and the jail orders dropped. Robinson's lawyers said contempt charges against him should be abandoned, but the appeal judges said Robinson might have been given a longer jail term than he received, and it was in the public interest for the charges to be properly heard. The case in currently being considered by the Attorney General. Advertisement

Who is Tommy Robinson? How former EDL leader has sparked controversy for years with his far-Right activism

With the decline of the English Defence League (EDL) and his other political ventures, far-Right activist Tommy Robinson appeared to be fading out of public life.

But his latest jailing won him international attention with backing from the American 'alt-right' and support from those close to US president Donald Trump.

Under the slogan of Free Tommy Robinson, referencing the alias he is widely known by, his supporters campaigned against his jailing for 13 months after being accused of contempt of court.

Tommy Robinson founded the English Defence League in 2009 and has faced a series of controversies over the years including accusations he is racist

Last week the 35-year-old was freed on bail after winning a High Court challenge against the finding.

It is by no means his first legal run-in. Years before he founded EDL in 2009, Robinson was convicted of an assault, reportedly on an off-duty police officer.

The father was also imprisoned in 2013 for using someone else's passport to travel to the US.

Other convictions include drugs and public order offences and he was jailed in 2014 for 18 months for mortgage fraud.

Robinson (pictured outside Westminster Magistrates' Court in 2013), was jailed in 2014 for 18 months for mortgage fraud

Having declared in an interview with the Daily Telegraph that 'going to prison was the best thing that ever happened to me' after the passport conviction, he strenuously fought the contempt finding.

A son of the President, Donald Trump Jr, criticised the case in a tweet, while former Trump adviser Steve Bannon and right-wing Dutch politician Geert Wilders publicly backed Robinson.

Mr Bannon, a highly-controversial figure of the American right, hailed him as 'the backbone of this country' during a bust-up with an LBC radio reporter.

And, according to reports, a US diplomat lobbied British ambassador to the US Sir Kim Darroch over Robinson's imprisonment after he filmed people involved in a criminal trial subject to reporting restrictions and broadcast the footage online.

Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also had convictions include drugs and public order offences. He is pictured being held by police at a protest in London in 2010

Nearly three months before his jailing in May, Robinson's online presence received a hefty boost when he shared a video of him punching the face of a man he described as a migrant.

Born in Luton, he found mainstream limelight when he was charged with assaulting a police officer as EDL clashed with Islamist protesters burning poppies. The case was later dropped.

And after the July 7 bombings in London, he blamed 'every single Muslim' for 'getting away' with the terrorist atrocity, remarks he would later apologise for.

He would also blame EDL for being 'part of the problem' and said he did not 'hate Muslims' as he exited the group and joined counter-extremism think tank Quilliam.

Robinson would later say he did not 'hate Muslims' as he exited the EDL and joined counter-extremism think tank Quilliam (pictured with Mo Ansar)

Robinson then went on to form Pegida UK, an anti-Islam group, but it gained little traction.

Supporters claimed his recent jailing was an affront to freedom of speech, but anti-fascist group Hope Not Hate maintained he is an 'extremist and a violent thug' who 'nearly derailed' a trial.

Judges quashed the contempt finding from Leeds Crown Court and ordered a fresh hearing at the Old Bailey.
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has threatened to kill corrupt police in an expletive-laden rant broadcast on live television.

The 73-year-old said a special unit would watch corrupt officers 'for life' and that they would be killed if they commit 'even a small mistake'.

More than 100 policemen, many of them facing administrative and criminal complaints including rape, kidnapping and robbery, were escorted to the presidential palace to meet Duterte, police officials said.

'If you'll stay like this, son of a b***h, I will really kill you,' Duterte told the policemen in the dressing-down broadcast by local TV networks.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has threatened to kill corrupt police in a foul-mouthed rant broadcast on live television

The cases of some of the policemen will be reviewed, but Duterte warned, 'I have a special unit which will watch you for life and if you commit even a small mistake, I'll ask that you be killed.'

Addressing the policemen's families, Duterte said, 'If these sons of b*****s die, don't come to us yelling "human rights, due process" because I warned you already.'

The national police, which Duterte once called 'corrupt to the core,' have been undergoing an internal cleansing since they were removed twice from the president's crackdown on illegal drugs last year due to reports of abuses.

Duterte later allowed them to rejoin drug raids, partly because the small lead anti-narcotics agency lacks personnel and firepower to quell the drug menace.

Such public threats, along with the more than 4,500 mostly poor drug suspects who have been killed in gunbattles with police under Duterte's anti-drug crackdown, have triggered alarm by Western governments and human rights watchdogs since he rose to power in mid-2016.

A member of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, PDEA, collects packs of narcotics found hidden inside a steel cylinder in one of the biggest drug hauls in Manila, Philippines today

Duterte has vowed to press his campaign until the last day of his six-year term, often declaring that he is ready to go to jail, although he denies sanctioning extrajudicial killings.

Police say nearly 150,000 drug suspects have been arrested and dozens of law enforcers have been killed in drug raids, proving the danger of battling illegal drugs, which remain a major problem.

The Bureau of Customs and anti-drugs authorities announced Tuesday night the discovery of about half a ton (1,100 pounds) of methamphetamine, locally called shabu, concealed in two steel cylinders in two abandoned container vans at Manila's international container port in one of the largest drug seizures under Duterte.

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency chief Aaron Aquino said the vans came from Malaysia, which a drug syndicate may be using as a transhipment point, but were never claimed at the Manila port because of stricter screenings.

Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapena warned that customs personnel linked to drug traffickers would eventually be arrested.

'The fact that this did not get through this time is an indication that many no longer want to cooperate with the drug syndicates,' he told reporters.
A Chinese woman has decided to become a mother again at the age of 67 after her only child died.

Zhang Heng, from Beijing, said when her 34-year-old son was killed in a traffic accident in 2014, she lost the purpose of life, according to a Chinese website.

She said in an interview that she and her husband had decided to undergo IVF, hoping they could have offspring once more. She said 'a child is a mother's life'.

The 67-year-old woman said she lost the purpose of her life after her 34-year-old son died in 2014. The woman, from Beijing, told her heart-breaking story to Btime.com in an interview

Ms Zhang presented an ultra-sound report issued by a Beijing hospital to Btime. The expectant mother said the hospital had refused to treat her. She said doctors had suggested an abortion

For any parent, losing a child is a devastating experience. In China, the loss could be even more tragic because of its one-child policy, which has been abolished.

Speaking to Chinese news site Btime.com under a pseudonym, Mr Zhang claimed that she had got pregnant with twins after spending around 200,000 yuan (22,600) on IVF treatment in Taiwan.

However, no hospital in Beijing has been willing to provide antenatal care for her. Instead, doctors urged her to abort her unborn babies for unspecified reasons. Mr Zhang claimed that the hospitals had been pressured by the authority to do so.

'When I lost my only child, no one cared about me. And now I have found hope for my life by myself, and they block me. No hospital dare treat me,' Ms Zhang said.

'There is no law in China which says elderly people can't have babies,' she added.

She presented an ultra-sound report issued by a Beijing hospital on July 23 to Btime. The report showed that she was nine weeks pregnant with twins.

Earlier this year, Fang Zhiying, a paralysed woman who had lost her only child, gave birth to a son and a daughter after a risky pregnancy at the age of 48. In the picture, Fang cries on the operating table after hearing that both of her babies were safe and healthy

Ms Zhang's story reflects the difficulties faced by a group of Chinese parents who share her fate.

In a country that puts great importance on bloodlines, life could be lonely, dark and financially difficult - to say the least - when one loses their only child.

This is one of the most emotive issues of modern China caused by the nation's contentious one-child policy which was in place from 1978 to 2016. Chinese couples are now allowed to have two children.

It's estimated that every year at least 76,000 couples in China lose their only child, according to a 2014 report by Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

In a 2017 survey, one mother in Beijing who had lost her son said she spent 20 hours each day 'talking' to her late son on QQ, a Chinese messaging platform, according to Zaobao.com.

The mother said she would use her account to message her late son's account, and then use her son's account to reply to herself. She said she found comfort in the 'conversations'.

Children in China are expected to give money to their parents regularly, which means losing the only child could also cause financial difficulties to a couple.

To help with the situation, the Chinese government provides a monthly subsdisation of 340 yuan (38), but the sum hardly helps as it only equals to the cost of a dinner for three at a decent restaurant in big cities.

For about 40 years until 2016, each couple in China was allowed to have one child (file photo)

Like Ms Zhang, some women decide to try for a baby again at an old age so their lives could take a turn for the better.

In March, one such mother in Wuhan, whose firefighter son died saving people in a massive blaze, delivered a boy and a girl after a risky pregnancy at the age of 48. The mother, Fang Zhiying, is a stroke survivor and partially paralysed.

In a more famous case in 2010, a mother named Sheng Hailin gave birth to twin daughters at the age of 60 after losing her only child to a gas leak.

Ms Zhang, the 67-year-old mother-to-be in Beijing, said her biggest hope was for her twins to be born safely.

She pleaded for help and attention from the public through Btime: 'All I wish now is to be able to give birth to healthy babies.'

Currently the oldest verified mother in the world, Spanish Bousada de Lara was 66 years and 358 days old when she gave birth to twin baby boys, Christian and Pau, in December 2006.
A group of Black Lives Matter protesters crashed the wedding of a Sacramento police officer who fatally shot unarmed Stephon Clark in March.

The cop, whose identity has not been confirmed by the police department due to safety concerns, got married on August 5 at a vineyard about an hour outside of Sacramento.

As the officer and his groomsmen got ready ahead of the nuptials, a group of protestors stormed into the room to confront him, yelling 'murderer'.

A group of Black Lives Matter protesters crashed the wedding of one of the officer's who shot and killed Stephon Clark

The group called the officer a 'murderer' before one of the groomsmen kicked the protesters out

'I just wanted to know if you started planning your wedding before you killed Stephon Clark or after?' a woman says. 'How you been sleeping since March 18? And I know this is supposed to be the happiest day of your life, he will not have that option.'

One of the groomsmen then gets up and kicks the group out of the room as they yell: 'you're a murderer!'

Tanya Faison, founder of Black Lives Matter Sacramento, told CBS that the group started planning the confrontation after they found the officer's wedding website online, which included the venue he was getting married in.

'I think they need to be approached in spaces where they're a little more vulnerable,' she said.

'We're not violent, we're not gonna give to them what they brought to our community, we're not gonna hurt anyone but we are gonna make them uncomfortable, and they should because someone is dead.'

Stephon Clark, 22, was killed on March 18 in his grandmother's backyard as he fled the police

Police said Clark had been shot 20 times by two officers, who said they thought he had a gun

Rev. Al Sharpton and Clark's brother Stevante are pictured at the 22-year-old's funeral on March 29 in Sacramento

Some people have criticized the group for taking things too far and confronting the officer on his wedding day, but Faison disagrees.

'He's gonna remember this day for the rest of his life,' she said. 'Stephon Clark's family is still mourning and suffering. He doesn't get to be with his kids, or get married.'

Community member Michael Keeley said there should be limits when people protest.

'As a black man in the community, I'm concerned whenever there's injustice on any black person, certainly there's a right to protest but I think there are limits when to protest in a public place and the right of privacy for your wedding,' he said.

Resident Susiann Donaldson, agrees, telling CBS: 'I don't think it's appropriate. That's why I say there's a time and place for everything'.

Clark, 22, was killed in his grandmother's backyard on March 18 as he was fleeing police. The two officers involved fired a total of 20 shots at Clark. They were responding to a 911 call of someone breaking car windows when they encountered Clark.

The death has sparked widespread outrage and protests, and the police department said it was investigating the shooting. So far, there's no word on if the officers will be indicted

The department said officers thought Clark had a gun in his hand when they opened fire, but only a cellphone was found near his body.

The death has sparked widespread outrage and protests, and the police department said it was investigating the shooting. So far, there's no word on if the officers will be indicted.

The Sacramento Police Officers Association responded to the video of Black Lives Matters protestors crashing the officer's wedding, and said the cops involved do not deserve to be harassed.

'The SPOA supports transparency within our Police Department. Transparency brings trust. Trust between our officers and the citizens they protect is an important aspect of a safe community. Our police officers are members of this community. They raise their families here. The send their children to schools here. They live their lives as a part of this community,' he said.

Transparency comes with responsibility. Officers deserve to be free from harassment by individuals seeking their own forms of justice. True accountability can only come from our impartial judicial system and from our elected government.'
Saudi Arabia's state airline is suspending flights to and from Toronto from next week amid an escalating row over human rights.

The move comes with the kingdom still locked in a bitter dispute with Canada after Ottawa criticised Riyadh's jailing of women's rights activists.

Saudi officials expelled Canada's ambassador, giving him 24 hours to leave the country, and recalled its own envoy to Ottawa, while freezing all new trade over what it slammed as 'interference' in its internal affairs.

A pro-government Saudi Twitter account then provoked outrage when it posted - and then deleted - a 9/11-style digitally altered image showing a plane flying towards the Toronto skyline.

Canada last week said it was 'gravely concerned' over a new wave of arrests, including award-winning gender rights activist Samar Badawi, pictured left. Samar is a vocal campaigner for her brother Raif Badawi, a blogger who was arrested in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Badawi's wife Ensaf Haidar, seen holding Raif's photo, has been granted asylum by Canada, where she is raising their three children

Saudi Arabia has appeared to threaten Canada with 9/11-style attack after the nation expelled its ambassador in a row over jailed women's activists

The account later apologised and the image was reposted with the plane removed, but screenshots of the original tweet spread quickly. Saudi Arabia's media ministry said it was investigating the incident.

Ottawa did not give any ground over the shock expulsion of the envoy, Dennis Horak, with Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland saying Canada would continue to defend human rights around the world.

The rupture, which underscores a newly aggressive foreign policy led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, comes after Canada denounced a new crackdown on women and human rights campaigners in the kingdom.

Saudi Arabia earlier said it was expelling the Canadian ambassador Dennis Horak (pictured)

'The kingdom announces that it is recalling its ambassador to Canada for consultation. We consider the Canadian ambassador to the kingdom persona non grata and order him to leave within the next 24 hours,' the Saudi foreign ministry tweeted early Monday.

The ministry also announced 'the freezing of all new trade and investment transactions with Canada while retaining its right to take further action'.

Later Monday, the row appeared to escalate as Riyadh said it will relocate thousands of Saudi students studying in Canada to other countries, and state airline Saudia announced it was suspending flights to and from Toronto.

Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir said Saudi Arabia 'will deal with any interference decisively', dismissing Canada's position as 'built on misleading information', in a statement carried by state media.

Last week, Canada said it was 'gravely concerned' over the new wave of arrests of rights campaigners, including award-winning gender rights activist Samar Badawi, and called on Riyadh to 'immediately release them.'

Canada doubled down on Monday.

'Canada will always stand up for human rights, in Canada and around the world, and women's rights are human rights,' Freeland told an audience in Vancouver.

Samar was arrested along with fellow campaigner Nassima al-Sadah last week, the latest victims of what Human Rights Watch called an 'unprecedented government crackdown on the women's rights movement'.

Samar's brother, blogger Raif Badawi, was arrested in 2012 and sentenced to 1,000 lashes and 10 years in jail for 'insulting Islam' in a case that sparked an international outcry.

The latest arrests come weeks after more than a dozen women's rights campaigners were detained and accused of undermining national security and collaborating with enemies of the state. Some have since been released.

Prince Mohammed, heir to the region's most powerful throne, has introduced a string of reforms such as lifting a decades-long ban on women drivers in a bid to overhaul the kingdom's austere image.

The Saudi Foreign Ministry said it had recalled its envoy in Canada and also said it would freeze 'all new business' between the kingdom and Canada. Pictured: The Saudi embassy in Ottawa

But the 32-year-old has simultaneously pursued a combative foreign policy - including leading a blockade of neighbouring Qatar and a bombing campaign against Iran-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen - while cracking down on dissent at home.

The United Arab Emirates, a strong regional ally, supported the Saudi response to Canada, with a senior government official calling Ottawa's behavior 'unacceptable.'

In April, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his 'serious concern' over the continued jailing of Raif Badawi to Saudi King Salman.

Badawi's wife Ensaf Haidar has been granted asylum by Canada, where she is raising their three children.

The move underscores a newly aggressive foreign policy led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (pictured)

'It is now time for other governments to join Canada in increasing the pressure on Saudi Arabia to release all prisoners of conscience immediately and unconditionally,' said Samah Hadid, Amnesty International's Middle East campaigns director.

But Riyadh's singling out of Canada is aimed at strongly discouraging other critical Western governments from speaking out, observers say.

'Canada is easier to cut ties with than the rest,' Bessma Momani, a professor at Canada's University of Waterloo, told AFP.

'There isn't a strong bilateral trade relationship and poking the Trudeau government likely resonates with Saudi's hawkish regional allies. At jeopardy are the... thousands of Saudi students in Canada.'

Bilateral trade amounts to CAN $3-4 billion (US $2.3-3.1 billion) a year, according to Thomas Juneau, an assistant professor at the University of Ottawa.

But the damage could be more significant if a $15 billion deal agreed in 2014 for Canada to sell Riyadh light armoured vehicles is scrapped, as thousands of jobs in Canada could be lost, Juneau said.

When asked about the contract, Freeland said the government 'looks forward' to hearing from Riyadh about the future of the deal .
British Airways have apologised to a passenger with kidney failure after charging him 90 extra for his dialysis equipment when it should have been transported for free.

Amit Sanchadev, who has end stage renal failure, was twice told by BA that he could take the life-saving equipment on board for free during his return flights from Gatwick to Tenerife.

But when the 41-year-old checked in for his flight home last month he was told he had to pay 100 Euros or leave it behind.

Amit Sanchadev, who has end stage renal failure, was twice told by BA that he could take the life-saving equipment on board for free during his return flights from Gatwick to Tenerife

Mr Sanchadev, a purchasing co-ordinator from London, claims the airline held him to ransom despite the fact he was carrying a hospital letter proving the equipment was needed to keep him alive.

He took to British Airway's Facebook page to post a complaint about the treatment he had received.

He told them: 'Even though BA say they will refund, it's a matter of principle and it's a total disgrace. My dialysis is my lifeline.'

Mr Sanchadev called the airline twice before his holiday and was advised there would be no problem carrying the equipment free if he took his hospital letter.

British Airways have apologised to a passenger with kidney failure after charging him 90 extra for his dialysis equipment when it should have been transported for free

But he experienced problems on his outward flight on July 6 when BA tried to charge but eventually backed down.

Mr Sanchadev, who paid 600 for return flights for himself and his wife, added: 'I went to the airport in Tenerife and waited until my turn to check-in. I provided my hospital letters to the check-in staff and told them I have two medical bags to check-in as per BA rules.

'They looked into my eyes and said, 'Sorry you are just a hand luggage person, so you need to pay'.

'I did not ask how much at this point as I could see the queue behind me was long and I was feeling like crap.

When the 41-year-old checked in for his flight home last month he was told he had to pay 100 Euros or leave it behind

'I thought to myself, 'Why have I come on holiday?' I don't deserve to be here, that's how I felt. I felt let down inside hearing this and I am lucky to be alive.'

He continued: 'I explained to the check-in agents that I have medical bags which I came with and if I don't take them I cannot survive.

'They said to me that's your problem with BA in London not ours. I was gobsmacked.

'I asked if I could speak to the manager or supervisor, they called and spoke in Spanish. I was told I had to pay 100 Euros for the two medical bags or leave them there.

He took to British Airway's Facebook page to post a lengthy complaint about the treatment he had suffered

'At this point, my blood pressure was high and I felt I was being held ransom by BA and its partners they use.'

Back in the UK, he was determined to force BA to refund the money and stop the airline treating other passengers in the same way.

He told them: 'I want to know what BA will do about this and how the senior directors are going to sort this out, because I have lost trust in British Airways.

'How can I put my life at risk in their hands? I have found many passenger have had the same situations with them.

'The distress they caused me, it's hard to explain to anyone, when a person is on dialysis they depend on this to allow them to help them do things otherwise we die.

'My whole trip was ruined by BA, and I know I will never fly with them again because they broke the trust. All I got was some stupid call to say sorry and we will let the training team know. I can assure it won't happen.

'For people, in my shoes, travelling abroad is now a luxury. I may not get to go back to Tenerife, which I enjoy, we take each moment as great experience and memories when go away and come back.'

A spokeswoman for British Airways, said: 'We understand how critical medical equipment can be, and have a policy in place which allows customers to travel with their dialysis equipment free of charge and without medical clearance.

'We have apologised to our customer for this misunderstanding and have issued a refund. We will be working with our staff to ensure this doesn't happen again.'
A Vermont man accused of murdering his wealthy grandfather and then his mother to collect his inheritance is attempting to access his trust fund.

Nathan Carman, who has Asperger's, was barred from accessing the trust by his aunt who believes the 24-year-old is responsible for the deaths of his rich grandfather, John Chakalos, and his mother Linda Carman.

Carman is now requesting that his aunt, Valerie Santilli, be removed as trustee of the Nathan Carman Family Trust - which was set up for him by Chakalos in 2011 and is worth about $270,000 - after she denied his request for $150,000 for legal expenses.

He says he needs legal representation to defend himself against a slayer lawsuit filed by Santilli and her two sisters, Elaine Chakalos, and Charlene Gallagher, who believe Carman murdered his mother and grandfather to get his hands on a slice of Chakalos' $29 million estate.

The 24-year-old wrote in newly released court documents he had no incentive to murder the man, who had been very generously supporting him financially with housing, schooling and spending money

A slayer suit prevents a person inheriting or profiting from someone their victim's estate. If successful, it would mean prevent Carman, who has not been charged in connection with either death, from ever collecting his $7 million share of the inheritance.

The hearing over Carman's trust fund is set for Tuesday afternoon.

Carman was a suspect in Chakalos' death after the wealthy 87-year-old real estate developer was shot and killed in his Vermont home in 2013, but a prosecutor rejected a warrant for his arrest pending more information.

Three years later, Carman went on a fishing trip with his mother Linda, 54, who disappeared when the boat sank off the coast of Rhode Island.

Carman is still fighting an insurer in federal court who is attempting to avoid paying out its $85,000 policy, claiming that the 24-year-old made suspicious alterations to the boat before it sank.

Nathan Carman was barred from accessing the trust by his aunt who believes the 24-year-old is responsible for the deaths of his rich grandfather, John Chakalos (right)

Chakalos was shot dead in 2013 on the same night he had dinner with Carman, but the 24-year-old was never criminally charged over the death

Meanwhile, Carman has been arguing that he would never have murdered his grandfather because he was a golden goose who would have kept him rich.

Court documents unsealed in May, reveal that Carman had his rent, utilities and education paid for by the multi-millionaire property developer until he was murdered in December 2013.

He claimed that, if anything, he has lost out financially as a result of his grandfather's death.

Carman says as well as the 'love and personal support for each other which my grandfather and I shared in our [familial] relationship', he had been bestowed with countless financial and social benefits.

The 24-year-old had his rent of $2,400, as well as the lease of his furniture - totaling more than $1,000 a month - and utilities including cable television, paid by Chakalos every month. The young man was given a credit card with a $5,000 limit which was paid off every month, and gifted a Nissan pickup truck worth $20,000.

Carman has also been accused of drowning his mother Linda (pictured with him) after their fishing boat sank and he was the only person to make it to a life boat

Carman is the sole heir to his mother Linda Carman, 54, (pictured) who went missing after the trip in September 2016

He claimed Chakalos had also offered to pay his living and educational expenses for the remainder of his schooling before his death, a promise that went unfulfilled as a result of his shooting.

Carman revealed in his statement that his grandfather had initially offered to purchase him a brand new Ford F-150 pickup truck, with a value of $50,000.

He claims the offer was retracted after 'angry and persistent criticism from my aunts Valerie and Elaine', who were upset the value of the car far exceeded the value of a car purchased by Chakalos for his cousin.

Chakalos, a Second World War veteran, was shot dead at his home in Windsor, Vermont in 2013, just weeks after Carman's grandmother died of cancer.

The lawsuit says that a police investigation found Carman had bought a semi-automatic rifle from a gun store in New Hampshire that matched the same caliber weapon used in his grandfather's killing.

The document says he concealed the information from investigators and now says the weapon is missing.

In July 2014, Windsor police submitted an arrest warrant for Carman on a murder charge, but a prosecutor rejected it the next day and returned it with a 'request for further information.'

Carman told the Hartford Courant at the time: 'He loved me very dearly,' he added. 'I was like a son to him; he was like a father to me.'

Carman is also the sole heir to his mother Linda Carman, 54, who went missing after the pair went on a fishing trip in September 2016.

Carman is still fighting an insurer in federal court who is attempting to avoid paying out its $85,000 policy, claiming that the 24-year-old made suspicious alterations to the boat (pictured) before it sank

He was rescued at sea a week later, and t he search for Linda was called off after the Coast Guard said there was no chance of her still being alive.

In a recording of the phone call Carman made to the Coast Guard after he was rescued by a freighter, he said he heard a 'funny noise' in the engine compartment of his boat and then saw water pouring in before he lost sight of his mother.

Carman admitted he'd patched some holes on the 31-foot-long Chicken Pox with marine putty before the trip, he insisted the boat was seaworthy.

But insurance companies claimed in court that 'incomplete, improper, and faulty repairs' were made the day before the boat sank.

Carman later told ABC's '20/20' that he's misunderstood and an easy target for police because he suffers from Asperger's syndrome, a condition on the autism spectrum. A few of its hallmarks are awkward social and communication skills.

Carman has denied killing both his mother and his grandfather, and has not been criminally charged over their deaths.

As police executed a search warrant on his apartment in 2014, one neighbor told police Carman was 'a time bomb waiting to go off', and another referred to him as 'murder boy', based on their personal experience with him.

One officer also spoke with family members, who claimed they were so concerned for their personal safety they had hired private armed security details for their homes.
When presidential candidate Donald Trump started a firestorm in 2015 by carping that Sen. John McCain wasn't a war hero because he was captured in North Vietnam, it wasn't his first time making that argument.

Video footage has emerged of an interview the billionaire gave to the now-retired CBS News correspondent Dan Rather, leveling the same jab back in 1999.

McCain was running for the Republican presidential nomination at the time. Trump was wooing the Reform Party, a group that hadn't exited its post-Ross Perot adolescence.

'The way Trump looks at it, he's at least better than everyone else in the race, beginning with John McCain,' Rather narrated, before Trump was shown on camera arguing: 'I mean, he was captured!'

'And he flew combat missions,' the CBS newsman shot back.

'Does being captured make you a hero? I don't know. I'm not sure,' Trump replied then, referring to the night McCain was shot down over Hanoi and the five years he spent in a Viet Cong prison.

Sen. John McCain spent five years at the infamous 'Hanoi Hilton'  a grisly Viet Cong house of torture  but President Donald Trump has said on at least two occasions that his capture after his plane was shot down over North Vietnam may disqualify him from being a 'war hero'

Candidate Trump created a firestorm and turned the press against him when he said in 2015 that McCain's capture was the only reason he was considered heroic

In a 1999 '60 Minutes' profile, a much younger Trump bashed McCain the same way as he toyed with running for president as a member of the Reform Party

Fast-forward to July 2015. Trump, now an earnest GOP contender, shocked Americans and turned the political press against him by telling an Iowa evangelical crowd that McCain ' is not a war hero.'

To the tune of mixed boos and nervous laughter, he explained: 'He is a "war hero" because he was captured. I like people that weren't captured, OK?'

Trump's other bizarre moments in the 1999 '60 Minutes' profile The CBS segment aired 19 years ago showed the future president speaking to 21,000 people as a guest at a rally hosted by motivational speaker Tony Robbins. 'Get even!' he advised them in his typical politically incorrect style. 'When somebody screws you, screw them back. But a lot harder, folks.' Trump fielded questions afterward with then-girlfriend Melania Knauss at his side, calling on attractive women in the audience. At one point he pointed to 'the beautiful woman in the white semi-blouse.' 'How do I go about creating the capital that I need to start my business, when all I have is my knowledge and my dream?' she asked. 'Meet a wealthy guy,' Trump replied. Advertisement

Trump, always generous with his opinions about politicians on both sides of the aisle, told Rather in 1999 that he was no fan of then-Texas Gov. George W. Bush  the man who would win the Republican nomination and go on to serve eight years in the White House.

"So far I've been very, very saddened by the fact that he certainly doesn't seem like Albert Einstein,' Trump declared.

'Do you think he'd have been governor if his father had not been president?' Rather asked him.

Trump had a rare one-word answer: 'No.'

McCain, a Navy pilot, was shot down in October 1967. He broke both of his arms and legs after ejecting from his aircraft, and was later tortured enough to result in permanent physical disabilities.

He received the a Purple Heart, a Silver Star and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Trump received student and medical deferments and never served in uniform.

After the 2015 bombshell, future White House press secretary Sean Spicer  then the Republican National Committee's communications director  clobbered Trump.

McCain 'is an American hero because he served his country and sacrificed more than most can imagine. Period!' Spicer said then, anticipating his future delivery of the same exclamation in White House briefings.

'There is no place in our party or our country for comments that disparage those who have served honorably.'

McCain has served in the U.S> Senate for two decades and was the Republican Party's presidential nominee in 2008

The senator, pictured with daughter Meghan, has been absent from Washington for months as he battles back from brain cancer surgery

Trump told reporters minutes after his 2015 remarks that a bone spur in his foot had spared him from the Vietnam draft.

Asked which foot had disqualified him, he couldn't remember.

'You'll have to look it up,' Trump said dismissively in a concrete room underneath an auditorium at Iowa State University. 'It's in the records.'

Sen. Al Franken, a Minnesota Democrat and a former comedian who was later drummed out of the U.S. Senate following sexual misconduct allegations, famously said something in 2000 that was similar to what brought Trump his first serious political heartburn.

'I doubt I could cross the line and vote Republican,' he told Salon then.

'I have tremendous respect for McCain but I dont buy the war hero thing.'

'Anybody can be captured,' said the famously liberal Franken. 'I thought the idea was to capture them. As far as Im concerned he sat out the war.'

Franken's comments did not lead to public controversy because he wasn't yet in electoral politics. He won his Senate election years later.

Trump focused considerable rhetorical artillery on McCain in Iowa during the 2015 Republican cattle-call event, telling reporters that 'we have lots of heroes who weren't prisoners.'

But 'I like the people that dont get captured, and I respect the people that do get captured,' he said later.

'John McCain has not done enough for the veterans,' Trump said, pivoting to focus on the Arizonan's years helming the Senate Armed Services Committee.'The veterans in this country are suffering. The veterans in this country are treated as third-class citizens. John McCain talks a lot, but he doesnt do anything.'

McCain's torture left him disfigured and permanently disabled. He's pictured being greeted by then-President Richard Nixon upon his release in 1973

OLD NEWS: Sen. Al Franken said in 2000 when McCain was a presidential primary candidate that he had 'sat out the war' as a POW. 'I dont buy the war hero thing. Anybody can be captured,' he wrote

The flashpoint had been a McCain rally where a reported 15,000 people heard his views on illegal immigration.

McCain, a moderate proponent of what Democrats came to refer to as 'comprehensive immigration reform,' called Trump's audience 'crazies' that day.

Trump responded that the GOP's 2008 presidential nominee was a 'dummy.'

In an emailed statement to DailyMail.com after his infamous 2015 appearance, Trump said: 'I am not a fan [of] John McCain because he has done so little for our Veterans and he should know better than anybody what the Veterans need, especially in regards to the VA.'

'He was extremely disrespectful to the thousands upon thousands of people, many of whom happen to be his constituents, that came to listen to me speak about illegal immigration in Phoenix last week by calling them "crazies",' Trump carped.

'These were not "crazies"  these were great American citizens.'
Howard Stern railed against CBS CEO Les Moonves for 45 minutes on Monday's episode of his SiriusXM radio show, saying the embattled media mogul tried to ruin his life.

Stern parted ways with CBS Radio in 2005 to join SiriusXM, and soon after an explosive legal battle began when CBS filed a $500million breach of contract lawsuit against the acclaimed radio host.

Since then, Stern has let his listeners know about his disdain for Moonves, who stands accused of sexual misconduct by six women in a recent New Yorker expose.

'Les tried to ruin my life,' Stern said, calling Moonves 'Tony Soprano.'

'I had done a pretty good job for these guys, kept their stations afloat, quite frankly, and made them a lot of money, and it was a nice way to end,' he said of his initial parting with CBS.

'Les and Joel Hollander came in and even brought champagne which was lovely, they said we wish you luck' adding they told him 'You gave everything to this company.'

Scroll for audio

Howard Stern went on a 45-minute rant against embattled CBS CEO Les Moonves during his Monday night SiriusXM show, recalling his bitter legal battle with CBS after he began his current gig in 2005

The past decade plus Stern has lashed out at Moonves (pictured) calling him a snake & a bully

However, once he landed at Sirius he says that he was 'socked' with the suit.

'How do you defend against a corporation? You know they have endless money to f*** with you with lawyers,' Stern said.

'I was so panicked because this is scary. ... I knew this was just some sort of bad, like, ''We're going to f*** with you because you're leaving us.'' It's like a stalker who says, ''You know what? You left me, we broke up, but I'm going to f*** your life up.'' And I didn't do jack sh** to Les Moonves, except make him money, and I was pissed and upset and scared.'

He went on to add: 'I don't have the kind of funds. They were trying to drain me financially. He was trying to f*** me. You think he was f***ing women? He was going to f*** me right up the a**, with no lube.'

In the suit, CBS accused Stern of promoting his upcoming gig with Sirius on his CBS Radio show.

Stern said that during a meeting with Moonves, in which he tried to explain to the CEO where he was coming from, he became emotional over the ordeal with his former employer.

'When I say emotional, I start crying in front of Les. I've never really admitted that before. I start crying, actual tears,' Stern said.

His tears turned to rage as the meeting continued.

Stern recalled telling Moonves he was going to 'unleash hell on earth on you. We're going to war, and I'm going to win'.

'I know his true nature. He's a shark,' Stern continues adding that Moonves 'had no humanity behind those shark eyes.'

He also played a tape from 2001 during Monday's show in which he called Moonves a 'snake' repeatedly and said 'no one should ever do business with him.'

'Les is such a snake. He's a snake in the grass.I hate him. I always have,' Stern said in the old segment. 'He's just a friggin' snake in the grass.Big president of CBS, he'll fall,' Stern prophetically said in 2001 clip.

The suit was ultimately settled in May of 2006, with CBS paying out $2million, with Stern getting control of his master air tapes.

In 2006, Stern went on 'The Late Show with David Letterman,' a CBS staple, and arrived wearing an 'I hate Les Moonves' t-shirt for the appearance

Happier times: Leslie Moonves, with wife Julie Chen (left and right) was accused of unwanted kissing and touching in a New Yorker expose

Despite winning the legal battle over CBS and Moonves, Stern has never let go of his his bitter feelings for the CEO.

He ran into Moonves at an event in Mexico, he maintained a cordial front, but in the back of his mind he thought: 'It's hard to forget that you tried to wreck me for no reason.'

Stern also hinted during Monday night's show that he has his own dirt on Moonves that he would have used if needed during the legal proceedings.

'I out mafia'd Les and got him to drop the lawsuit, its one of my most embarrassing moments in the corporate world,' Stern said.

'I would have brought someone on the air that would have embarrassed him greatly,' Stern said of his plan to take down Moonves at the time.

And, the shock jock said he had even darker plans he was ready to unleash if necessary, saying 'I had done my research and I knew things about it, and that's all I'm going to say about that.'

He said that Moonves 'was like France. He gave right up. Welcomed the Nazis right in. The war was over. ... This guy caved like there was no caving ever in the history of show business.'

Moonves confessed to making 'uncomfortable advances' in the past after the six women came forward in the New Yorker report, in which he was accused of sexual misconduct.

'Throughout my time at CBS, we have promoted a culture of respect and opportunity for all employees, and have consistently found success elevating women to top executive positions across our company. I recognize that there were times decades ago when I may have made some women uncomfortable by making advances,' said Moonves in a statement.

'Those were mistakes, and I regret them immensely. But I always understood and respectedand abided by the principlethat 'no' means 'no,' and I have never misused my position to harm or hinder anyone's career. This is a time when we all are appropriately focused on how we help improve our society, and we at CBS are committed to being part of the solution.'

Moonves also received support from wife Julie Chen, who said: 'I have known my husband, Leslie Moonves, since the mid-90s, and I have been married to him for almost 14 years.

'Leslie is a good man and loving father, devoted husband and inspiring corporate leader. He has always been a kind, decent and moral human being. I fully support my husband and stand behind him and his statement.'

Stern also chided Chen for sternly standing behind Moonves.

'Julie should've said, ''Listen, I'm a woman. Listen it's obviously awkward. I'm married to Les Moonves, but I'm not going to come on the air and degrade what these women are saying,'' Stern said. But Chen 'blew off the whole discussion.'

CBS has announced that it will be investigating the allegations, and that Moonves would stay on as CEO and chairman during that time.

CBS has not responded to DailyMail.com's request for comment.
President Donald Trump's administration is preparing a new proposal that would make it harder for legal immigrants to become citizens if they've ever gotten a welfare check, availed themselves of food stamps, or used Obamacare, it emerged Tuesday.

The plan is the brainchild of White House senior adviser Stephen Miller and would limit the number of migrants who can become American citizens or obtain green cards, NBC News reported.

Such a plan would not need Congressional approval and would affect migrants who get labeled a 'public charge' - someone who is dependent on the government for more than half of their personal income.

A new proposal from President Trump's administration would make it harder for migrants to become citizens and could affect up to 20 million immigrants

Broadening the definition of 'public charge' would include those who partake of public programs such Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, nonemergency Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program [SNAP], the Women, Infants, and Children Program [WIC], and subsidized health insurance through the marketplaces created by the Affordable Care Act.

An estimated 19 percent of noncitizen adults and 38 percent of noncitizen children were enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP in 2016, the New England Journal of Medicine estimates.

And the change in the 'public charge' definition could increase the number of uninsured people by more than one million, the medical journal estimates.

Immigration lawyers estimated to NBC News that more than 20 million migrants could be affected in what would be the biggest change to immigration policy in decades.

A version of Miller's proposal has been sent to the White House Office of Management and Budget, which is the final step before the rule is published in the federal register.

A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security, which would implement the changes, told NBC: 'The administration is committed to enforcing existing immigration law, which is clearly intended to protect the American taxpayer by ensuring that foreign nationals seeking to enter or remain in the U.S are self-sufficient.

'Any proposed changes would ensure that the government takes the responsibility of being good stewards of taxpayer funds seriously and adjudicates immigration benefit requests in accordance with the law.'

Miller, 32, has grown a reputation for being the most biggest immigration hawk in Trump's White House.

He played a key role in developing Trump's 'zero tolerance' immigration policy that resulted in migrant children being separate from their families. It engulfed the White House in a political firestorm that resulted in members of both parties and all five living first ladies criticizing the president for its harshness.

New U.S. citizens recite the Pledge of Allegiance during naturalization ceremony at the New York Public Library in July

Miller said the American people were warned the president would be tough on immigration.

'The American people were warnedlet me [be] sarcastic when I remark on that[they] were quote-unquote warned by Hillary Clinton that if they elected Donald Trump, he would enforce an extremely tough immigration policy, crack down on illegal immigration, deport people who were here illegally, improve our vetting and screening, and all these other things,' he told The Atlantic earlier this year. 'And many people replied to that by voting for Donald Trump.'

Miller also worked with former White House adviser Stephen Bannon on the travel ban, that barred travel to the United States from seven majority-Muslim countries.

In fiscal year 2016, 1.2 million immigrants obtained a green card and 753,060 became U.S. citizens, according to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

But information from the first quarter of fiscal year 2018 indicates the Trump administration is on track to see a 20 percent decline in the number of new green card holders while the number of new naturalized citizens will drop by 10 percent.
The sole survivor of 11 tragic rhinos caught up in a bungled relocation to a Kenyan wildlife park has died after succumbing to injuries from a lion attack.

The other 10 rhinos all died last month one after the other just days after being moved as a result of what investigators said was salt poisoning and stress.

Disaster struck nearly a month ago when the critically endangered black rhinos were moved from the Nakuru and Nairobi national parks to Tsavo National Park.

The only black rhino to survive the relocation to Tsavo National Park in Kenya that killed ten others has died after succumbing to injuries from a lion attack

Shortly after their arrival the rhinos began to collapse and die despite the round the clock efforts of veterinarians and the tragedy made headlines round the world.

The surviving rhino was thought to have escaped the fate of the others but ten days ago was attacked by a lion but had been left so weak it could not fight it off.

A source at Tsavo National Park confirmed: 'The last rhino has sadly died. Under normal circumstances it should have fought off a lion but it was badly mauled.

'In this case the rhino was already weak after drinking salty water' he said.

Kenya Wildlife Service Communications boss Paul Udoto confirmed the rhino was found dead on Monday morning and was being tested for the cause of death.

All but one of 11 critically endangered black rhinos died soon after they were moved to their new home in Tsavo East National Park last month

Tourism minister Najib Balala said last month that the ten extremely rare rhinos died as a result of stress combined with drinking saltier water than they were used to.

The resulting fall out of one of Africa's worst recent conservation tragedies has led to a 'blame game' with allegations that park rangers are being made scapegoats.

Mr Balala said an inquiry found that 'clear negligence' by conservation officers was the reason for the deaths and fired the Kenya Wildlife Services acting director.

Six rangers from the Kenya Wildlife Service were also suspended.

But last week veterinarians gave Mr Balala seven days to reinstate their ranger colleagues and to revoke the suspensions following the death of the rhinos.

The Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) and the Union of Veterinary Practitioners in Kenya (UVPK) have told Mr Balala that the six rangers were not at fault.

Animal activists throughout the world were outraged by the bungled rhino relocation which have to be carried out with military precision if deaths are to be avoided.

Prominent Kenyan conservationist Paula Kahubu wrote on Facebook that she regretted not questioning the transfer in the first place adding: 'Shame, shame, shame'.

The Kenya Wildlife Service itself called the rhino deaths 'unprecedented' in more than a decade of such transfers having lost just 8 of 149 rhinos in the past.

The relocation of the endangered rhinos involves first capturing them then putting them to sleep for the journey and successfully reviving them in their new home.

Kenyan Tourism minister Najib Balala said the rhinos died from stress and poisoning from drinking saltier water than they were used to at their old reserve

The protection and movement of rhinos has become necessary as poaching has risen in recent years across sub-Saharan Africa at the hands of highly organised gangs.

The poachers are active across Africa killing rhino and elephant for horns and tusks.

Often the animal parts are shipped to Asia for use in ornaments and medicines but anti-poaching measures are becoming increasingly successful in protecting them.

Yesterday South African National Parks announced that their rangers had arrested 23 suspected armed rhino poachers in the Kruger National Park since July.

In May three black rhinos were killed by poachers in Meru National Park in Kenya which dealt the wildlife industry another blow in a country dependent on tourism.

The worlds' last male northern white rhino died in Kenya in March leaving only two females of its subspecies alive.

Kenya had 20,000 rhinos in the 1970's falling to 400 in the 1990's but last year the figure had risen to 1,258  745 of them black rhinos and 510 southern white rhinos.
Enrique Facelli, pictured, has been detained in hospital indefinitely after killing his neighbour after convincing himself he was being 'persecuted' by him

A former Uruguay diplomat has admitted stabbing an LGBT rights campaigner to death following a 'long-standing' neighbour dispute.

Enrique Facelli, 49, attacked Julian Aubrey, 55, at his home in West Kensington in October last year and his body was found with multiple stab wounds.

The Old Bailey heard the pair had been involved in minor complaints against each other for years but that Facelli eventually began showing signs of 'extreme paranoia'.

Facelli accused him of 'studying the dark arts, worshiping the devil, leaving faces in the stairwell and trying to poison him with caustic soda'.

A few months before the fatal attack he had also tried to force his way into Mr Aubrey's flat with a crowbar and an axe.

Facelli was due to face trial for murder at the Old Bailey but instead pleaded guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility.

Prosecutor Tom Little QC said the Crown accepted the lesser charge in light of two psychiatric reports which revealed Facelli was suffering from paranoid schizophrenia at the time of the killing.

Mr Aubrey was formerly co-chairman of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea LGBT liaison group and in 2014 was recognised by the Princess Royal for his work counselling victims of sexual abuse.

Opening the case, Mr Little said: 'This case involves a long-standing neighbour dispute.

LGBT campaigner Julian Aubrey, right, was stabbed to death by paranoid schizophrenic former Uruguayan diplomat Facelli, left, following a long-standing neighbour dispute during which Facelli accused him of being a 'devil-worshipper'

Mr Aubrey's (pictured) sister paid tribute to him and said he was a 'kind, sensitive, gentle, sincere and caring' man

'There were many years of allegations and counter-allegations between the neighbours.

From 2015, a number of calls were made to police, the housing association and the mental health authorities.

The defendant voiced complaints about rubbish left in communal areas, Aubrey making noise at night, opened his mailbox and would leave faeces on the stairwell hoping that it would be assumed the defendants dog.

He claimed the deceased had entered their flat to try to poison him, shone lasers through their window and practiced black magic against him.

On 13 November 2015, the housing association notes record that the defendant was displaying extreme signs of paranoia and delusional disorder, continuing for the next 18 months.'

Aubrey was found lying on the floor of his flat, with 22 stab wounds and caustic soda crystals across his legs, face and side, the court heard.

The powder turned out to be the same caustic soda crystals that Facelli had bought at Tesco three days earlier, and his DNA was found on the victims body.

In a victim impact statement, Mr Aubrey's sister said: 'Julian did not deserve such an evil and horrific death.'

She described him as a 'kind, sensitive, gentle, sincere and caring' man who 'could be too trusting and a little bit gullible'.

Mr Aubrey was formerly co-chairman of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea LGBT liaison group and in 2014 was recognised by the Princess Royal for his work counselling victims of sexual abuse, pictured

Mr Aubrey had a difficult childhood but was intelligent and creative, with a love of painting.

She said he had been privileged to meet Princess Anne, who recognised his work as a counsellor in 2014.

In mitigation, Patrick Gibbs QC told how Facelli had been an intelligent individual who spent 18 years working as the cultural attache for the embassy of Uruguay in London.

He said said: 'The defendant lived in morbid fear of Mr Aubrey.

'His fears about what his neighbour was doing were very real to him.

'His money was spent on gadgets to try and detect bugging devices and cameras in the flat in June 2016.

'Money was spent on air filters to get rid of toxic powders that he believed Mr Aubrey was administering through a vent in their roof.

'He spent over 100,000 renting accommodation outside London to prevent being at risk of persecution under Mr Aubrey.

He was stabbed to death at his flat in Kensington, pictured, in a complex where they sell for around 675,000

'He was so frightened at the time that he slept with a knife under his pillow because he was so scared that Mr Aubrey was going to climb through the window.

'Mr Facelli, when well, is a gentle man and had never been in trouble before these incidents.

'He is highly educated, and cultivated man who had been in a loving relationship with his husband for many years.'

But he had been in 'mortal fear' of Mr Aubrey who he had complained about to police, housing and mental health authorities.

He spent money on a 'forensic report' aimed at detecting bugging devices and air filters, he said.

He also moved out of his flat for nine months to get away from the perceived 'persecution'.

Facelli had been 'driven quite out of his wits' and had been sectioned before the killing, Mr Gibbs said.

Judge Leonard handed Facelli a hospital order without limit of time.
A small piece of a flag that is said to have been used to prop up Admiral Lord Nelson's head as he lay dying at the Battle of Trafalgar has emerged for sale.

The great British seaman was rushed below decks on HMS Victory after a French sniper shot him in the chest with a musket ball during the historic battle in 1805.

He lay on a bed drowning in his own blood for over an hour while medics and officers tried to make him comfortable by fanning him and giving him water.

The delicate piece of blackened cloth that has now emerged for sale at auction is reputed to have formed part of a large flag that had been placed under his head at the time.

A small piece of a flag that is said to have been used to prop up Admiral Lord Nelson's head as he lay dying at the Battle of Trafalgar (pictured) is going on sale. The renowned British seaman was rushed below decks on HMS Victory after a French sniper shot him in the chest during the battle in 1805

The delicate piece of 3in by 2in blackened cloth (above) that has now emerged for sale at auction is reputed to have formed part of a large flag that had been placed under Nelson's head at the time. It comes in a contemporary Admiralty envelope with a note reading: 'The Victory. Piece of pennant of the flag used to lay under Nelson's head after he received the fatal wound'

It comes in a contemporary Admiralty envelope with a note reading: 'The Victory. Piece of pennant of the flag used to lay under Nelson's head after he received the fatal wound.'

The 3in by 2in piece of cloth is being sold alongside a lock of hair that belonged to Nelson's greatest adversary - Napoleon Bonaparte.

The strands were snipped from the defeated French military leader's head after his death.

Both lots belonged to a British collector of eclectic items that are now being sold after his death.

A lock of hair (left) that belonged to Nelson's greatest adversary - Napoleon Bonaparte - is also being sold at the auction. The strands were snipped from the defeated French military leader's head after his death. As well as a locket containing Napoleon's hair, there is also one with strands of hair (right) of his wife Josephine

A contemporary manuscript note pasted on the reverse of the Napoleon locket (above) states: 'The Emperor Napoleon's hair cut off after his death given to the Countess of Ranfurly by Madame La Croix housekeeper to the Empress Josephine from the time when she was Madame De Beauharnais to her death'

At the time Napoleon married Josephine (both pictured) in 1796, he was a 26-year-old revolutionary soldier and she was a widow who was six years older than her husband

Andrew Aldridge, of Henry Aldridge and Son Auctioneers of Devizes, Wiltshire, said: 'These items belonged to the late David Gainsborough-Roberts who came from Jersey and collected weird and wonderful items from history.

'The piece of cloth is reputed to have come from the flag placed under Nelson's head.

'It is in an Admiralty envelope which is definitely of the right period. We aren't talking about a letter that was written in the last 50 years.

'It is very delicate and you can tell from looking at it that its deterioration is consistent with a flag from that age.

'It is a fascinating object relating to Britain's greatest sailor and has some immediacy to it, transporting you to one of the most important moments in Britain's history.'

As well as a locket containing Napoleon's hair, there is also one with strands of hair of his wife Josephine.

A contemporary manuscript note pasted on the reverse of the Napoleon locket states: 'The Emperor Napoleon's hair cut off after his death given to the Countess of Ranfurly by Madame La Croix housekeeper to the Empress Josephine from the time when she was Madame De Beauharnais to her death.'

The piece of flag is estimated to sell for 1,500 while the two lockets of hair are valued at 1,200.

The sale takes place on Saturday.
A mob of ten Indian villagers battered a neighbour to death with iron bars and bamboo rods before dumping his body down a well because they wrongly thought he was a child kidnapper.

The group took the law into their own hands last month after rumours spread on WhatsApp about kidnappers and organ harvesters prowling the area.

The 29-year-old's body rotted for a week in Dindori, central India before it was discovered by villagers.

A mob of ten Indian villagers battered a neighbour to death with iron bars. Pictured: Stock image of the Dindori region where the attacked happened

'The attackers threw the body in a well and fled,' said Dindori police chief Kartikeyan.

He said WhatsApp rumours made the local residents suspicious of the victim, who was from a neighbouring district.

Police have arrested 10 people and are searching for three more suspects.



More than 20 people have been killed in similar attacks across India in the past three months, promoting the government to threaten Whatsapp with legal action.

The murder came just three weeks after a woman was brutally killed by a mob in the same state over similar rumours.

The unidentified woman was murdered on July 19 after villagers suspected her of being a child kidnapper.

Lynchings are nothing new in India, but the spread of smartphones to even the most remote areas has enabled rumours to be shared at lightning speed and in huge volumes.

The murder came just three weeks after a woman was brutally killed by a mob in the same state over the same rumours (stock image)

The spate of attacks related to hoaxes about child abduction gangs began last year in Jharkhand state with the emergence of a video that has since spread across India.

At least 23 people have been killed since February for similar reasons, provoking calls for intervention to curb the violence.

Last month the Indian government threatened WhatsApp with legal action, saying it 'cannot evade responsibility and accountability' for the malicious rumours.

WhatsApp responded by increasing the number of steps required before a message can be forwarded, and limiting the number of recipients it can be forwarded to.

The instant messaging giant issued newspaper adverts in India - its largest global market - sharing tips on how to spot misinformation and rumours.
An Apprentice contestant and her husband have been accused of duping thousands of customers out of $15 million with 'shoddy' business courses.

Jessie Connors Tieva and Matthew Tieva ran Sellers Playbook, a Minneapolis-based consulting company that offered training and to people looking to start their own shops on Amazon.com.

But their business has been shut down by the Federal Trade Commission and the Minnesota Attorney General filed a complaint against the business over their 'false and unsubstantiated' claims.

Jessie Connors Tieva and Matthew Tieva ran Sellers Playbook, a Minneapolis-based consulting company that offered training and to people looking to start their own shops on Amazon.com.

'Sellers Playbook lured consumers into buying its expensive system by claiming that purchasers were likely to earn thousands of dollars per month selling products on Amazon,' the FTC and AG said in a joint statement, adding that the couple promised that customers could make $20,000 a month and potential net profits of $1.3 million.

'Few, if any, consumers achieved these results, and most lost money.'

But Connors Tieva, who starred in the first season of The Apprentice alongside Donald Trump and future White House Director of Communication Omarosa Manigault, blamed lazy customers for failing to achieve what they promised.

'We have thousands of students who have been very successful,' Connors Tieva told TwinCities.com. 'There are some people out there who think they can get the world handed to them and not work for anything.'

Conners Tieva described herself as a marketing firm owner when she appeared on The Apprentice in 2004

Connors Tieva, a mom-of-three, starred in the first season of The Apprentice alongside future White House Director of Communication Omarosa Manigault

Connors Tieva was also involved in another similar Amazon sales scheme that was shut down earlier this year and was ordered to return $10.8 million to its customers, according to the complaint by the AG.

The Tievas have no affiliation with Amazon, Sellers Playbook was simply promoting a business model for the website's third-party sales platform, Fulfillment by Amazon.

The complaint alleges nine violations of Federal Trade Commission regulations and U.S. law against the couple and their business, which has been shut down until the case is resolved.

Sellers Playbook was launched last year and offered free two-hour seminars, hosted by the former Apprentice contestant, to potential customers.

Attendees would then be pitched a three day workshop, costing between $500 and $1,000.

Sellers Playbook, a Minneapolis-based consulting company offered training and to people looking to start their own shops on Amazon.com

The couple promised that customers could make $20,000 a month and potential net profits of $1.3 million, although added a disclaimer that it was down to the students to fulfill their goals

The couple's business has been shut down by the Federal Trade Commission and the Minnesota Attorney General filed a complaint against the business over their 'false and unsubstantiated' claims

But Connors Tieva (pictured at The Apprentice finale party in 2004) blamed lazy customers for failing to achieve what they promised

Once there, an even more expensive package of mentorship and training would be offered - costing up to $48,000, the complaint said.

In exchange, customers purchasing the program could get access to the Sellers Playbook System, which promised them profits of up to 70 percent by selling items on Amazon's third-party sales platform.

The Minnesota Attorney General said the defendants had 'no adequate basis' for making such claims.

A preliminary injunction hearing will be held next week.

An Amazon spokesman told the DailyMail.com: 'The entrepreneurs and small businesses selling on Amazon are incredibly important to us and our customers, and we aggressively pursue those that attempt to harm their selling experience.

'We invest heavily to protect the integrity of our stores and take action to protect customers and sellers, including working with consumer protection agencies and law enforcement. We have zero tolerance for fraud and abuse and will continue to cooperate with law enforcement to pursue criminals.'

Conners Tieva, a mother-of-three, was the youngest Apprentice contestant when she appeared on the first season, aged 21, in 2004.

Listed as a marketing firm owner, she made it through six weeks before Trump told her: 'You're Fired.
A young Pakistani woman claims to have been subjected to a horrific sexual assault in broad daylight in a public park in the capital Islamabad.

The woman says she had gone to Fatima Jinnah Park in the centre of the city in the company of a male friend on Thursday.

Shortly after arriving, the pair had been approached by park official who had asked her 'what she was doing in a park with a boy', local media reports.

The young woman says she had been visiting a park in Islamabad with a boy when park officials threatened them with police, before escorting her off and raping her (stock image)

She claims he threatened to take them to the police for being out in public together, at which point she told the official she had done nothing wrong.

The park official then threatened to summon the young woman's parents to a police station, at which point the couple felt pressured to give him money.

The young man in her company paid the park official 2,000 rupee (12.55), at which point the official and two of his colleagues told them to leave through separate gates.

Shocking: The unnamed girl was reportedly raped in Islamabad's Fatima Jinnah Park

She says the three men, one of them a guard in the park 'took her to a side where one of them sexually assaulted her,' The Express Tribune reports.

She later told police that the official who raped her had told her she would be killed if she told anyone about the assault.

According to the Express Tribune, police have begun investigating the woman's claims.

However, a police officer told the newspaper that they have not been able to identify any of the alleged attackers.
A dead fetus was found in the toilet of an American Airlines plane at LaGuardia Airport in New York City on Tuesday morning.

The plane was in a hangar and had arrived in New York from Charlotte, North Carolina, on Monday night.

Staff made the discovery on Tuesday and immediately called for help. American Airlines said it was assisting police with their investigation.

The fetus was found in the toilet of an American Airlines plane as it was cleaned in a hangar at LaGuardia Airport on Tuesday morning (file image)

'We have no major impact to our operation this morning while we are working with law enforcement on an investigation,' a spokesman said.

Port Authority Police declined to comment when contacted by DailyMail.com on Tuesday morning.

They instead turned all questions over to the Queens District Attorney's Office which is yet to make a statement.

The aircraft in question has been taken out of service pending further inquiries.

American Airlines said it would not impact the rest of their fleet.


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Some 2,000 inmate volunteers paid $1 an hour are part of the contingent of 14,000 firefighters battling 18 major wildfires raging across California, including the massive Medocino Complex Fire that is now the largest in state history.

The inmate volunteer force now accounts for 14 per cent of the firefighters deployed across California, and is composed of minimum-security inmates who are considered low security risks.

'The inmate fire fighters work in teams of 12 - their specific job is to cut containment lines and fire breaks to either stop a fire or change its direction, while firefighters from CalFire and other agencies directly attack the flames,' California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation spokesman Bill Sessa said in a statement to DailyMail.com.

'That means our inmates are often hiking into back country with 60 pounds of gear on their backs. In fire situations like those we are now seeing in California, our firefighters - and all the others as well - are working 24 hours straight before being rotated by other crews who rested in the previous 24 hours,' Sessa said.

Inmate firefighters look on as a firefighting aircraft prepares to drop fire retardant ahead of the River Fire component of the Mendocino Complex as it burns through a canyon on August 1 in Lakeport, California

Inmate firefighters are seen working to clear brush and create containment lines last month left and right above

Evacuees from Lucerne, from left, Ken Bennett with Ember Reynolds, 8, and Lisa Reynolds watch the sunset as smoke from the Ranch Fire rises into the sky at Austin Park Beach in California's Clearlake with Mount Konocti in the background

Sessa said that about 2,000 members of the 3,500 inmate firefighting force were working on fire lines on Tuesday, from the Oregon border to southern California.

Anyone convicted of sexual offenses, arson or attempt to escape by force is not eligible to join, and the convicts are all medically screened and trained by Cal Fire, according to the CDCR.

California's inmate firefighting program, an offshoot of prisoner road work crews, began during WWII, when the manpower shortage left Cal Fire's predecessor agency desperately understaffed.

Mostly doing the grunt work of creating containment lines with pick axes, shovels and chainsaws, the inmates are paid $2 a day plus $1 an hour, Sessa told KQED last fall.

Sessa said that the program saves the state up to $100 million a year.The program has provoked controversy over the years. Last fall, then-candidate for California lieutenant governor Gayle McLaughlin called the practice 'slave labor'. But defenders say the program is voluntary, and helps inmates build valuable skills.

The inmates and the professionals with Cal Fire, who are paid a minimum of $10.50 an hour, take aim at the biggest wildfires in two ways, and in much of the same way the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has for decades. First, they'll go at it directly with water and retardant where they can.

And when they can't take that direct approach, firefighters retreat to a ridge, wide road or stream where they use bulldozers to cut a 'fire line.' There they'll wait for the blaze to come to them while lighting 'backfires' to clear vegetation between the fire line and the approaching blaze.

Smoke from the Mendocino Complex rises above the hills north of Clear Lake in Ukiah, California on Monday

Inmate firefighters (in orange) are seen training with a Cal Fire professional in this photo shared by CDCR last month

The inmates (in orange) practice their wildfire fighting skills with Cal Fire trainers in a prison camp last month

A Cal Fire instructor (in yellow) teaches the inmate firefighters wildfire survival skills in a training camp last month

Experts say whichever approach Cal Fire takes, California firefighters are often more aggressive in trying to extinguish wildfires than those in other less-populated states. That's because California wildfires are increasingly threatening sprawling urban areas.

'Cal Fire is really an urban firefighter service in the woods,' said Arizona State University life sciences professor Stephen Pyne, a wildfire management expert.

Cal Fire spokesman Scott McLean said firefighters use both approaches to battle the large blazes, including the growing twin fires of the Mendocino Complex about 100 miles north of San Francisco.

McLean said firefighters are using the direct approach to prevent the fires from reaching urban areas along Clear Lake while retreating in national forests 'and letting the fire come to us.'

By Tuesday morning, the two fires grew to a combined 454 square miles, and the fire is now the state's largest wildfire in modern history. The previous record was set in December by the Thomas Fire in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.

Smoke rising from the California's wildfires was seen from the International Space Station on Monday and NASA astronaut Ricky Arnold took a photo of the wildfire smoke rising from California from the ISS.

Smoke rising from California's wildfires is seen from the International Space Station on Monday

NASA astronaut Ricky Arnold took the photo of the wildfire smoke rising from California from the ISS on Monday

The Mendocino Complex Fire burns in the Mendocino National Forest near Willows, California on Monday

A Ventura County hand crew hikes along a fire road on the eastern edge of the Ranch fire, the largest of the two fires that make up the Mendocino Complex, in Ukiah, California on Monday

Arcadia and Santa Rosa firefighters attempt to put out fire on a hay bale stack behind Brassfied Estate Winery in High Valley near Clearlake Oaks on Monday

McLean and fire experts say it's impossible to surround a fire that large, especially with 17 other major fires requiring attention in the state.

'We are building lines. Picking and choosing where we think we can take a stand,' McLean said. 'Attacking it where we can and waiting and letting it come to us when appropriate.'

McLean said firefighters are using direct means to prevent the Mendocino Complex from reaching evacuated urban areas on the east side of Clear Lake.

At the same time, firefighters have pulled back in the uninhabited national forests to the north, where they have cut fire lines and are employing indirect methods.

Experts say the best way to fight these destructive wildfires is to prevent them in the first place when building homes and other buildings.

'It's the embers, not the fire itself, that destroy most homes,' said Steve Conboy, a construction expert whose company develops fire-resistant chemicals to apply to wood.

Jim Bolander hoses down the roof of his home for the sixth time in eight years in Spring Valley, California on Monday

Crystal Easter comforts her dogs on Monday in Spring Valley, California as they flee the Mendocino Complex

In the meantime, Governor Jerry Brown and other state officials warned that the state is expected to endure record-breaking wildfires going forward.

Drought, warmer weather and other factors have combined to start wildfire season sooner and make the blazes more destructive.

'We're in uncharted territory,' the governor said last week. 'Since civilization emerged 10,000 years ago, we haven't had this kind of heat condition, and it's going to continue getting worse. That's the way it is.'

Firefighting costs have more than tripled from $242 million in the 2013 fiscal year to $773 million in the 2018 fiscal year that ended June 30, according to Cal Fire.

'In past decades, we may have seen a fire that we're seeing now in August or September,' Cal Fire Director Ken Pimlott said during a press conference last week.

'We are routinely now seeing fires reach 100,000 acres several times in one month and it's only July, so we have a long way to go in this fire season, and as we saw last year fire season can go right up through December.'

Over the weekend, crews made progress against one of the two blazes in the Mendocino Complex, with help from water-dropping aircraft, Cal Fire operations chief Charlie Blankenheim said in a video on Facebook.

But the other fire in the twin blaze is growing after spreading into the Mendocino National Forest.

Flames consume a home as the River Fire tears though Lakeport, California on July 31. The twin fires of the Mendocino Complex have destroyed at least 75 homes so far

Smoke is seen rising from the Holy Fire, which broke out on Monday south of Los Angeles in Orange County

Meanwhile, a new fire dubbed Holy Fire erupted south of Los Angeles in Orange County on Monday and quickly spread through the chaparral-covered ridges of the Cleveland National Forest.

Campgrounds and homes in Holy Jim Canyon were ordered evacuated. The fire sent up an enormous pillar of smoke and ash.

Farther north, crews gained ground against the deadly Carr Fire that has destroyed more than 1,000 homes in and around Redding. It was nearly halfway contained, Cal Fire said.

The wildfire about 225 miles north of San Francisco started more than two weeks ago by sparks from the steel wheel of a towed-trailer's flat tire. It killed two firefighters, a utility worker and four residents and displaced more than 38,000 people.

Officials began allowing some residents to return to their neighborhoods. But tens of thousands of others were still evacuated.

The fires in Northern California have created such a haze of smoke in the Central Valley that Sacramento County health officials advised residents to avoid outdoor activities for the entire week.

Another blaze that ignited last week in the Sierra Nevada has damaged a historic Northern California resort in the Stanislaus National Forest.

The nearly century-old Dardanelle Resort has reportedly sustained massive structural damage, though the details were unclear.
Billionaires Bill and Sue Gross finalized their divorce nearly a year ago, but the ugly battle over everything from cat custody to entire neighborhoods rages on.

The couple, who divorced in October 2017, are reportedly now buying multi-million dollar properties for the sole purpose of making each other miserable.

Sue recently spent $37.8million on homes in the Irvine Cove community of Laguna Beach, California, where Bill was hoping to start his newly-single life.

She received the couple's $36million home in Irvine Cove as part of the divorce and wanted to make sure Bill couldn't buy a great piece of property in the neighborhood, sources told the New York Post.

Billionaires Bill and Sue Gross finalized their divorce nearly a year ago, but the ugly battle over everything from cat custody to entire neighborhoods rages on

But two can play at that game.

Sue claims that Bill, the co-founder of the Pacific Investment Management Company, then bought a $36million home across the street from her sister in retaliation.

Although she placed a higher bid on the house in an attempt to block Bill's purchase, she ultimately lost out because her ex-husband offered to pay for it in cash.

'With his financial resources, Bill could choose to live practically anywhere in the world,' she wrote in a Los Angeles court filing.

'However, he insists upon the very small community that I call home.'

Sue then purchased two more homes in the neighborhood because she wanted to protect herself and her family from Bill's 'army of spies', she said.

Sources claim Sue recently spent $37.8million on homes in the Irvine Cove community of Laguna Beach, despite receiving the couple's $36million home (pictured) in the same neighborhood, to make sure her ex couldn't buy a great piece of property in the neighborhood

She claims Bill hired a security company to monitor her, as well as her two sisters and assistant, around the clock and turn their lives into an 'unmitigated nightmare'.

Sue alleged that the guards even videotaped her and her sisters as well as their children and grandchildren.

'I am exhausted beleaguered by this omnipresent interference,' Sue wrote in the court filing.

'[I'm] mortified that my loved ones have been subjected to harassment for no reason other than their relationship with me.'

On the flip side, Bill alleges that he only hired security because Sue would come to their house and steal things during the divorce proceedings.

Sue claims that Bill, the co-founder of the Pacific Investment Management Company, then bought a $36million home across the street from her sister in retaliation

The pair's contentious divorce has not entangled their three adult children, but they have been battling over custody of their three cats. Pictured is Sue with their son Nick

One such item Bill claims Sue looted was the couple's Pablo Picasso painting.

Sue won Picasso's 1932 Le Repos in a coin toss during the divorce proceedings and later sold it at a Sotheby's auction for $36.9million.

But Bill was shocked to hear after the coin toss that she already had the art work, replacing the real one on their bedroom wall with a fake that she had painted herself.

Although Bill was well-aware that his wife had recreated the painting years prior, he said he had no idea she recently switched them.

In court Sue said that she merely was doing what Bill had told her, which was to 'take all the furniture and art that you'd like'.

Sue also alleged that Bill had left the couple's home in complete disarray when he was forced to leave after the divorce was finalized.

Sue also alleged that Bill had left the couple's home in complete disarray when he was forced to leave after the divorce was finalized. He is pictured here with one of their daughters

The couple's divorce was finalized last October, marking the end of their 21-year union (they are pictured here in the 1990s)

She claimed she found empty spray bottles of 'puke' and 'fart' smells in the garbage, balls of human hair in the drawers, and dead fish and dirt stuffed in the air vents.

Sue said all the remote controls for the house were missing, the carpets were stained, and there was water damage throughout the property.

'When I was finally able to obtain access to this house, I was disgusted to see that Bill had left it in a state of utter chaos and disrepair,' read Sue's declaration, obtained by The Blast.

Sue submitted the declaration in hopes of obtaining a restraining order against her ex - whom she called a 'cruel, vengeful and vindictive man with practically limitless financial resources'. It was later granted by the court.

Bill also claimed that Sue stole this 1932 Picasso painting, which later sold for $36.9million, from their bedroom wall and replaced it with one she painted herself

Bill was also granted a temporary restraining order against Sue, which expired in December 2017.

Sue also claimed Bill sent threatening text messages, including one that references the 1989 film War of the Roses (pictured) - in which a wealthy American couple who descend into an outrageous divorce battle

Sue's restraining order expires in February 2019, when the former couple must appear back in court together.

The pair's contentious divorce has not entangled their three adult children, but it has affected their three cats.

Although Sue won custody of the couple's pets, Bill was granted 24-hour visits with his favorite felines.

Bill then claimed that Sue showed up 'unannounced' on one such visit and claimed their cats weren't safe with him because the 'house was too hot', a source said.

'The cats were fine,' they added. 'They were returned the next day to Sue with a full physical check-up and clearance.'

Sue also claimed Bill sent threatening text messages and emails throughout their ugly divorce battle, telling her the 'game is on'.

In one such text, Bill referenced the 1989 film War of the Roses - in which a wealthy American couple descend into an outrageous divorce battle.

'Feel peaceful while you can,' one alleged text read. 'War of the Roses ahead. And I can predict the winner!'
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Disturbing new images have emerged of the jihadis who carried out the terror attacks in Barcelona last year which left 16 innocent people dead.

Pictures show the group manufacturing up to 500kg of an explosive known as the Mother Of Satan in a makeshift bomb factory in the city of Alcanar which they packed into pillowcases, home-made grenades and a suicide vest.

Fortunately the bombs exploded before they could be used, taking two of the terrorists with them, but the pictures give a chilling reminder of how much worse the attacks could have been had everything gone to plan.

Youssef Aalla raises one finger to the sky in a gesture commonly used by ISIS fighters to represent the 'one God', Allah, while wearing a suicide belt made in a bomb factory in Alcanar, Spain

Younes Abouyaaqoub (left) and Youssef Aalla (right), pose with tubes of explosives inside the bomb-making factory. The men planned to use these bombs during their attack on Barcelona

Mohamed Hichamy (left), Youssef Aalla (centre) and Younes Abouyaaqoub (right), pose with explosives. Alla died when this bomb factory exploded, while Hichamy and Abouyaaqoub were both subsequently shot dead by police

Mohamed Hichamy (left), Youssef Aalla (centre) and Younes Abouyaaqoub (right), raise a one-fingered salute in images that were found by Spanish police inside the destroyed bomb factory

Mohamed Hichamy poses with a tube filled with an explosive known as Mother of Satan, which the group manufactured. Police believe they could have made up to 500kg of the substance

Younes Abouyaaqoub poses with a suicide vest that the group planned to use in their attack before it was destroyed when the bomb factory exploded. The group also manufactured 19 grenades and 56 pillowcases full of explosives

The explosion in Alcanar on August 16 prompted the group to switch tactics and launch a van attack on Las Ramblas, in Barcelona, the following day - killing 13 and leaving more than 100 injured.

Another man was stabbed to death the same day and his car used to ram a police barricade, before another car attack in Cambrils on August 17 killed another women and left dozens hurt.

The attacks ended on August 18 when Younes Abouyaaqoub was killed during a shootout with police.

The images show Abouyaaqoub alongside Youssef Aalla, Omar Hichamy, Mohamed Hichamy, and Mohamed Houli Chemlal laughing and joking as they prepare the bombs.

Other pictures show members of the group posing next to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, which they visited shortly before carrying out the Barcelona attack.

Aalla was killed in the explosion in Alcanar, Omar and Mohamed Hichamy were shot and killed by police in Cambrils, while Chemlal survived the Alcanar blast and is currently on trial.

The images were found alongside videos which show the group laughing and joking as they manufacture the bombs, while vowing: 'Every gram of this iron is going into your heads or those of your children or your wives'

Police believe the group intended to make one large or three smaller bombs, place them inside rented vans, then detonate them in Barcelona before carrying out grenade and suicide vest attacks

The terror cell were forced to change tactics after their bomb factory exploded by accident, instead using vehicles and knives to kill 16 people and injure more than 100

As well as the explosives, police found bags of nails, screws, and chunks of metal that would have been used as shrapnel, increasing the deadly power of the bombs

Investigators say the group used bomb-making manuals designed by ISIS in order to learn how to make the suicide vest

Police believe the terrorists wanted to use pillowcases full of explosives to make one large bomb or three smaller bombs which would have been placed inside rented vans then detonated around the province of Catalonia.

Alongside the explosives, investigators found 120 cans of gas which would have been used to increase their deadly power.

Also inside the apartment were bags of nails, screws and lumps of metal which would have been packed around the bombs to act as shrapnel, maiming victims and causing further deaths.

The terrorists had also manufactured 19 hand grenades and a suicide vest to be used during the atrocity.

Images of the group preparing the devices were found on cameras inside the hideout and have since been released by investigators.

The group sold their relatives' jewellery and stole items from work in order to finance their scheme, according to Spanish newspaper El Pais.

In video tapes found alongside the images, on of the group can be heard saying: 'Suffer. Enemies of Allah!'

The group manufactured an explosive known as Mother of Satan before drying it out using a fan inside their bomb factory

The explosives were then packed inside pillowcases, with officer saying the group had between 200kg and 500kg of material

The terrorists also had 120 gas canisters which would have been packed around the bombs, making them more powerful

'Every gram of this iron is going into your heads or those of your children or your wives,' another says. One adds: 'This is the poison we are going to give to the enemies of Allah to taste.'

Chemlal remains on trial alongside Driss Oukabir, who is accused of renting one of the vans used in the attack.

Salh El Karib and Mohamed Aalla were also arrested at the time of the attack, but later released on bail after a judge ruled that there was not enough evidence to detain them.

Houssaine Abouyaaqoub, Said Aallaa and Moussa Oukabir were shot and killed during the Cambrils attack.

Abdelbaki Es Satty, a 44-year-old imam from Ripoll, where most of the terror cell lived, was also killed in the Alcanar explosion and is believed to have masterminded the plot.

Officers said bomb-making guides know to be linked to ISIS were found inside the Alcanar property, though it is not clear if the group were directed by the terror group or merely influenced by it.

The attacks were the deadliest in Spain since the 2004 Madrid train bombings and the deadliest in Barcelona since the 1987 Hipercor bombing.
Irfan Mohammed, pictured here with Sadiq Khan in December 2017 at City Hall, shared a conspiracy theory claiming Jews were warned about the 9/11 attacks on Facebook

A Labour councillor who sits on an equality panel shared a conspiracy theory claiming Jews were warned about the 9/11 attacks on Facebook.

Lambeth councillor Irfan Mohammed shared the comment which suggested that Jewish people working in the World Trade Centre knew about the terror attacks ahead of time.

The revelation comes amid rising tensions within Labour following the party's anti-Semitism crisis.

Mr Mohammed is a member of the London council's Equality Impact Assessment Panel and also the Faiths Together in Lambeth group, which claims to encourage 'constructive relationships among faith communities'.

Yet in December 2015 Mr Mohammed shared a post of anti-semitic remarks written by someone else onto his social media account.

The Facebook post said: 'Jews working in the World Trade Centre received a text message before the incident: 'Do not come to work in September 11'.

'Israeli ties to the September 11 attacks'

Joe Glasman, from the Campaign Against Anti-Semitism, said: 'The claim that Jews were behind the 9/11 atrocities is one of the most vile antisemitic conspiracy theories of recent times, not least because so many Jews lost their lives that day.

'That a Labour Councillor's Facebook page has been used to disseminate this lie is utterly appalling.

Lambeth councillor Irfan Mohammed shared the comment which suggested that Jewish people working in the World Trade Centre knew about the terror attacks ahead of time

'Under Jeremy Corbyn's leadership, antisemitic discourse in the Labour Party has thrived, even amongst its own elected representatives.

'The once anti-racist Labour Party has been seized by antisemites. We have little faith that Mr Mohammed will receive anything more than a slap on the wrist'.

The Labour anti-Semitism row has exploded over recent weeks among growing anger and accusations that Mr Corbyn has refused to act on his promises to crack down on the abuse.

The latest wave of controversy was triggered when the Labour leader refused to adopt the full International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) working definition of anti-Semitism.

Mr Corbyn tried to get on top of the row at the weekend by putting out a video acknowledging a 'real problem' of anti-Semitism in the Labour party.

Mr Mohammed is a member of the London council's Equality Impact Assessment Panel and also the Faiths Together in Lambeth group, which claims to encourage 'constructive relationships among faith communities'

But Jewish leaders have dismissed this latest attempt with Gideon Falter of the Campaign Against Antisemitism saying the clip was 'another bland statement devoid of any apology' and said he had not promised any specific action.

Labour's deputy leader Tom Watson called on Mr Corbyn to drop inquiries into two of the party's MPs  Margaret Hodge and Ian Austin  who both lost family members in the Holocaust - over their outbursts on anti-Semitism in the party.

He spoke out after the party was rocked by revelations that Peter Willsman - a Labour member and strong ally of Mr Corbyn - was secretly taped ranting that 'Jewish Trump fanatics' invented the anti-Semitism.

The anti-Semitism row has exposed deep rifts within the Labour party and threatens to cast a dark shadow over its party conference in September.

A Labour Party spokesperson said: 'The Labour Party takes all complaints of antisemitism extremely seriously and we are committed to challenging and campaigning against it in all its forms.'

'Complaints about antisemitism are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures and any appropriate disciplinary action is taken.'
A former employee has lashed out at Labor MP Emma Husar over being allegedly 'brutally treated' by the embattled politician for six months.

Ex-staffer Angela Hadchiti is one of 22 former staffers who have claimed they were bullied and harassed while employed under Ms Husar.

In an exclusive interview with The Australian, Ms Hadchiti alleges she suffered from a string of verbal abuse under her former boss.

A former employee has lashed out at Labor MP Emma Husar (pictured) over allegedly being 'brutally treated' by the embattled politician since last September

Ex staffer Angela Hadchiti (pictured, left) is one of 22 former staffers who have claimed they were bullied and harassed while employed under Ms Husar (pictured, right)

Ms Hadchiti, who started working for the MP last September, alleges she was verbally abused by Ms Husar and intentionally excluded from office activities.

The former staffer also alleges Ms Husar befriended her 20-year-old daughter Elissa and later housed her without her knowledge.

The mother-of-three said that Elissa left home on November 11 and did not say where she was going.

The mother feared the worst and thought her daughter was missing, The Australian reports.

She said she only learned in early December that her daughter Elissa, who recently came out as gay, had actually been taken in by Ms Husar.

Ms Hadchitit (pictured) said her life was 'wrecked' after working for Labor MP Emma Husar

Ms Hadchiti told The Australian that she allegedly confronted Ms Husar when she heard the news.

Ms Husar allegedly told Ms Hadchiti that she was 'too Catholic' and 'homophobic' to look after her daughter.

Elissa returned back to her mother's home in January.

Ms Hadchiti resigned in February due to an overload of 'stress' after working for the Labor MP.

She told the Australian her life was 'wrecked.'

Ms Husar has faced multiple workplace bullying and harassment allegations from former staffers who accused the Member for Lindsay of treating her staff like 'slaves', but has vehemently denied all allegations against her.

Details of a letter from an internal Labor investigation over workplace bullying allegations were sent to Ms Husar in May and published by BuzzFeed last week.

Yet Ms Husar hit back and tweeted, 'This smear is completely and utterly untrue, unfair and hurtful beyond belief. 100 per cent false.'
Jay was just trying to raise money to buy a tent and go camping but soon was swamped by police officers.

Someone called police on the young boy's neighborhood lemonade stand in Urbana, Illinois, accusing him of illegally selling food without a permit.

Instead of shutting down his small table with a glass dispenser and some plastic cups, they spent the Sunday afternoon drinking it with him.

Instead of shutting down his Jay's lemonade stand after someone called it in, police spent the Sunday afternoon drinking it with him

'As time allowed the entire shift enjoyed his delicious and "illegal" lemonade. Thanks Jay and have fun camping!' the police department wrote on Facebook.

An officer posed next to Jay with a cup of the lemonade in his hand while the boy wearing a 'home run king' t-shirt pulled a face.

The temperature hit 88F on Sunday so Jay likely made a tidy profit from both police and residents keen to cool down on the sunny day.

Jay's encounter with armed men was much more civil than a fellow young lemonade seller in Monroe, North Carolina who was robbed of $20 at gunpoint on Saturday.

A fellow young lemonade seller in Monroe, North Carolina was robbed at gunpoint of $20 from his stand (pictured) on Saturday

Police said a male teenager with a camouflage hat and black shirt put a black handgun to the boy's stomach, demanded money and then fled on foot.

'Never thought in a million years I'd be racing off to pick him up with somebody pointing a gun at him and taking his money from just a simple thing of selling lemonade,' his Phillip Smith said.

The neighborhood rallied together to raise $256 to cover the the nine-year-old's loses after the traumatic incident.
A woman's shocking photo showing her veteran brother waiting 'eight hours' for treatment at a Tennessee Veterans' Affairs Medical Center has gone viral.

Gail Hobbs shared the image of Tony Mims lying on the floor at the Alvin C. York Campus of the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, located in Murfreesboro, when he went there for treatment on Thursday.

'[The doctor] wasnt sure if he was sick enough to be admitted to hospital,' she wrote, before telling Fox 17 News that he was ultimately diagnosed with pneumonia.

Hobbs wrote that they 'waited 8 hours for them to put him in a bed,' noting that 'he cant even walk' and that 'he deserves better treatment[,] he served his country.'

Gail Hobbs shared a shocking image on Friday of her veteran brother Tony Mims lying on the floor at a Tennessee VA medical center after being denied a bed on Thursday in Murfreesboro

Hobbs told Fox that she took Mims to the hospital on Thursday, where he first had blood work and a urine sample taken.'

Mims said he was feeling unwell but the doctor said he was 'OK'. He then sent Mims to have an MRI taken.

Following the MRI test, Mims was left to wait in a room without a bed, Hobbs said, at which point she asked multiple times for a bed so Mims could lay down.

She said her request was denied, however, by the doctor who told her that Mims was not going to be admitted as an inpatient because he was not sick, so he could not have a bed.

Gails Hobbs (pictured) said she blames the doctor that Mims saw on Thursday for the improper care she said her brother received

While in that room, Mims became cold and asked nurses for a blanket, which they promptly brought to him, Hobbs said.

Then, he asked Hobbs to help him lay down because he was tired, which Hobbs started to do, but said Mims passed out before reaching the floor, and that's when she took the photo of him on the ground.

Hobbs told Fox that the nurses came to Mims' aid right away after he was found to be on the floor, adding that 'the nurses were wonderful.'

It wasn't until the next day that another doctor at the hospital diagnosed Mims with pneumonia, 'by a simple swab of the nose,' Hobbs said.

Hobbs said she blames the doctor that Mims saw on Thursday for the improper care she said her brother received at that time.

'I dont blame the VA, Hobbs said. 'The VA has a long way to go to be perfect, like everyone, but you cant lump everything together.'

The Murfreesboro facility said 'the facts are much different than whats presented in the Facebook post,' focusing on how long Mims spent on the floor.

No comment was made regarding the eight hour wait for a bed, or the fact that Mims was ultimately admitted as an inpatient and diagnosed with pneumonia by a second doctor on Friday.

The center's full statement to Fox reads as follows:

'As soon as we learned of this photo on Friday night, we immediately reviewed the Veterans medical record and have since spoken to the Veteran personally. Our review determined that the facts are much different than whats presented in the Facebook post.

'Tony Mims was admitted to VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System August 2, the day the photo was taken. During a ten-minute wait for his provider to return to his exam room, Mims said that his sister, who had accompanied him to his appointment, helped him move to the floor of the exam room because he was tired. Mr. Mims estimated he was on the floor about ten minutes before a provider returned.

'Mims is now an inpatient in our facility and he is being well taken care of. Our medical center director has visited the patient and has his assurance that he received good care and has no complaints.'

Hobbs, who has been caring for Mims since April, said she hopes to have him placed in a nursing home by the end of the week.
This is the incredible moment a hero rescuer saved a starving baby more than a week after the Laos dam tragedy.

Father-of-four Michael Alfaro, 33, volunteered to travel to Attapeu province after hundreds were killed and thousands left homeless in flash floods that swamped the area on July 22.

Former U.S. Marine Michael, from Plainfield, Illinois, was surveying a village that human traffickers were allegedly targeting when he found the 'almost dead' baby boy on July 31.

Michael Alfaro, 33, a former US marine from Illinois, volunteered to help rescuers in Laos after the flooding there and helped to save this baby boy

Mr Alfaro was searching a village that was being targeted by people smugglers when he found the naked baby on the verge of death a week after the flood

The youngster was starving, dehydrated, naked and crying in an abandoned building in the Sanamxai district of the province.

Michael said the tot was 'nearly unconscious' and his 'eyes rolled back' when he tried to rouse him.

Michael - who is working as an independent volunteer - carried the baby alone in sweltering heat for more than 1km to the nearest doctor's tent where the infant was treated with two emergency IV drips.

Michael, who served in the infantry and then artillery regiments, said: 'This was a miracle. I was just in the right place at the right time.

'A few hours longer and the baby may not have survived.

'I checked on him after a couple of hours and he's doing well. He's going to be fine.'

The flood tragedy unfolded on July 22 when a wall at the Xe-Pian Xe-Namnoy dam collapsed after heavy monsoonal rains, sending millions of tonnes of water downstream through Sanamxay District in the southernmost Attapeu province and into neighbouring Cambodia.

The floodwaters wiped out entire villages - washing away roads, bridges and homes, and swamping crops and irrigation systems.

Thousands of people are now taking shelter in rescue camps while many more remain stranded or dead in their villages.

Michael said that estimates on the ground are that at least 1,000 people are dead or missing - and that the baby he rescued was at risk of being snatched by traffickers, which he says his team and Chinese authorities have been alerted to.

Describing the rescue, he said: 'I had joined with Chinese rescue teams and were told about an area that human traffickers and kidnapper were targeting. I went there to scan the surroundings.

'I saw what looked like an empty building and wasn't expecting to see people inside. I thought it was best to check and there was the baby on the ground in a blanket.

'He was very weak, he had a fever of about 38 degrees. He was malnourished, dehydrated and he hadn't eaten for three or four days.

Mr Alfaro, himself a father-of-four, carried the boy for more than half a mile to get medical attention. He is now expected to make a full recovery

Laos was badly affected by flash flooding after the Xe-Pian Xe-Namnoy dam collapsed, sending millions of gallons of water rushing downstream

'His mother was also in the same building in a different place. She was weak and hadn't eaten and the baby's older brother and sister were with her. But the baby had been left alone away from them.'

Michael said that the baby's mother had been sheltering in the abandoned building with her three children.

Tragically, the woman's husband and father of the children is believed to have died in the floods.

But Michael said mother has repeatedly insisted to volunteers that she is 'waiting for her husband to come home' as she sits in vain for him.

Michael said that after rescuing the baby, he needed to find urgent treatment and walked for more than 1km to a Korean hospital tent where two IV drips were administered.

He added: 'The baby has recovered and he is healthy. But there are a lot of children out there still who have been separated form there parents.'

Michael said that estimates seen in the media of 20 to 30 people dead are 'way off the mark' and be believes that from working with data on the ground collected by Chinese authorities, many as 1,000 people could be dead.

He added: 'The situation here is really bad. It's worse than you are seeing. There are at least one thousand people dead or missing. The land is treacherous to negotiate, it's like quicksand, so any survivors from villages are stranded. In some places you stand in it and you sink, it's just think mud.

'We think that there are currently between two hundred and five hundred orphans in different refugee camps who are never likely to be re-united with their families, even if their parents have actually survived.

'We have a situation where human traffickers are targeting children. Monks are also just taking orphans with them to join temples.

'You add to that the physical conditions of the ground and it is a humanitarian disaster. Survivors are not able to walk through the flooded areas and they are starving to death.

'There's a big shortage of baby food for the children and many are being treated with IV drips.

'I volunteered to come here because there are children that need help. Countries have to ignore the politics and bureaucracy and provide help.'
The Leave campaign's biggest financial backer has blasted the government's Brexit negotiators and claimed the best outcome would be a 'no deal' with Brussels.

Billionaire Peter Hargreaves slammed Theresa May for leaving the talks up to civil servants who 'don't have a clue' and 'haven't made a deal in their lives'.

The 71-year-old, Briton's 12th richest man with a 3.5billion fortune, said those in charge of the UK's departure from the EU were doomed to fail as they 'don't want Brexit'.

'The best option is no deal,' he told Bloomberg. 'No deal would give us free trade with Europe because the three biggest economies in Europe, outside Britain, are huge exporters to the UK.

'That's Germany, France and Italy. And those three economies would absolutely demand free trade from the EU. I guarantee my entire wealth that we would get free trade.'

Billionaire Peter Hargreaves slammed Theresa May for leaving the talks up to civil servants who 'don't have a clue' and 'haven't made a deal in their lives'

Speaking to Bloomberg, he said: 'The best option is no deal.

'No deal would give us free trade with Europe because the three biggest economies in Europe, outside Britain, are huge exporters to the U.K.

'Thats Germany, France and Italy. And those three economies would absolutely demand free trade from the EU.

'I guarantee my entire wealth that we would get free trade.'

Hargreaves, the founder of financial advice firm Hargreaves Lansdown, was the Leave campaign's biggest individual donor, having given 3.2million to the cause.

The billionaire is now retired and no longer an executive of Hargreaves Lansdown but still owns 30 per cent of its shares.

He said that experienced businesspeople should have been drafted in to negotiate Brexit with the European Union, as opposed to mandarins.

'There isnt one person on our Brexit team that has a clue,' he added. 'None of them are brave.

'None of them have done a deal. None of them know the art of the deal.

Billionaire Peter Hargreaves slammed Theresa May (pictured) for leaving Brexit talks up to civil servants

'Theyve left it to civil servants and not one of them has done anything of any worth in their lives.

'We should have a team that want Brexit and want us out of the EU.'

The trained accountant, who started his firm from his bedroom in 1981, also slammed Jeremy Corbyn.

He said electing the Labour leader as Prime Minister would be 'an absolute, unbelievable, total disaster', causing the pound to crash and entrepreneurs and wealthy families to flee the country.

It comes as a EU diplomat savaged Theresa May's Brexit stance - accusing her of coming up with a plan that is stuck in the Victorian age.

The official said the PM is so indecisive that it is easier to negotiate with Donald Trump.

In a brutal attack on Mrs May's Chequers plan, the ambassador of an EU country said the Prime Minister has come up with a plan which is 'very nostalgic'.

The unnamed diplomat told The Sun said the Brussels bloc has found it incredibly difficult to negotiate with Mrs May because she is 'irrational'.

The blistering put-down comes amid growing fears that Britain will crash out of the bloc without a deal.

UK ministers have said that stubborn Eurocrats are risking a no-deal Brexit because they are refusing to compromise and respond to Britain's plans.
An Iowa father has been sentenced to a total of 75 years in prison for sexually abusing his 12-year-old daughter, who then died in a suspected arson fire in May 2017, before she could testify in court about the molestation.

A judge on Monday sentenced 47-year-old James Exline to 50 years in prison for a charge of second-degree sexual abuse and 25 years in prison for a charge of third-degree sexual abuse, to be served consecutively.

Exline must serve at least 85 per cent of each sentence before he becomes eligible for parole, which won't happen until about 2082. He must also register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

James Exline, 47 (pictured in court Monday, left), was sentenced to 50 years in prison for second-degree sexual abuse and 25 years for third-degree sexual abuse of his 12-year-old daughter Paige Exline (pictured on the right with her 16-year-old cousin)

Both girls were killed on May 15, 2017, in a suspected arson house fire in Guthrie Center, Iowa

District Court Judge James Drew described the defendant during the sentencing as 'extremely dangerous' and said he was especially troubled by the fact that he victimized his own daughter, 12-year-old Melanie 'Paige' Exline, reported Des Moines Register.

Paige and her cousin, 16-year-old Shakiah Cockerham, were killed on May 15, 2017, in a house fire in Guthrie Center, which also injured their uncle, 54-year-old William Long III, and grandmother, 74-year-old Shirley Exline.

Investigators believe the fire was deliberately set to prevent Paige from testifying in court about sexual abuse in her family perpetrated by both her brother and father.

In August 2017, Paiges stepbrother, 26-year-old Ryan Thompson, was arrested on two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of attempted murder and one count of arson in connection to the deadly fire. His trial is scheduled to get under way on September 14.

In court on Monday, Judge Drew said Paige's 19-year-old, Noah Exline, had been sexually abusing her until their father found out about it and put a stop to it, only to begin molesting his daughter himself.

According to court records, Noah had admitted to seven counts of sex abuse involving his younger sister before the fire.

Under the conditions of his sentencing, Exline, 47, won't become eligible for parole until about 2082

Paige's 19-year-old brother, Noah Exline (left), previously admitted to seven counts of sex abuse involving his younger sister. Their stepbrother, 26-year-old Ryan Thompson (right), has been charged with murder for allegedly setting the fire that killed Paige and Shakiah

The inferno (pictured) also injured Paige's grandmother and another relative

His father James was arrested in August 2017 on molestation charges. In June 2018, after two mistrials, in January and May, a jury found James Exline guilty of the sexual abuse charges.

Shirley Exline, Paiges grandmother, had been named the girls guardian in March 2017. She was in the process of trying to gain full custody of here and was due in family court for a hearing set for four days after the fire.

Speaking to the Des Moines Register a couple of days after the deadly inferno, Shirley recounted how her two granddaughters, Shakiah and Paige, were clinging to her as they tried to escape the burning home before an explosion sent the grandmother flying into the yard.
Police are today searching a river, bins and a village green for evidence linked to the murder of a baby killer beaten to death after being released from prison.

David Gaut, 54, was jailed for life after brutally killing 17-month old Chi Ming Shek in South Wales 33 years ago.

Gaut was found dead with serious head and facial injuries on Saturday in his rented council flat in New Tredegar - 11 miles from where he killed Chi in Caerphilly - and three men, including two said to be 'close neighbours', have been arrested.

Today Chi's mother Jane Pickthall was shocked by the news and told MailOnline she had no idea he had been killed - but declined to comment further.

Gaut was released from prison in November and was housed in New Tredegar last month - but locals in his new neighbourhood found out about his sickening past using Google.

One said: 'He was given a good beating. Some people are saying he should have the same treatment he gave to that baby. An eye for an eye'.

Gaut, who told new neighbours he had served 33 years for killing a soldier, was babysitting for his then girlfriend when he battered, kicked, and burned the sole of Chi's foot before dumping his battered body under a chest of drawers.

He even had sex with the boy's mother after the murder and it was only the next morning when she found her beloved son dead with a broken arm, torn liver and a fractured skull.

Foirensics officers photograph the lawn of 54-year-old David Gaut was found dead at his flat in New Tredegar, South Wales, pictured

Teams have been conducting searches of the property, pictured, today wearing protective clothing, with locals saying they have checked 'bins, houses and even the river'

Officers are also carrying out fingertip searches for evidence outside the council flat

Jane Pickthall found her beloved son Chi Ming Shek dead under a chest of drawers after sleeping with her boyfriend and said today she had no idea her son's killer was dead

Today it emerged that the child killer had been released from prison in November - and he may have been moved three times before ending up in the home where he died.

He told locals he had served 33 years for murder - but insisted it was because he had shot a soldier and claimed he was a victim of a miscarriage of justice.

Pictured: A South Wales Echo front page article from the time David Gaut was put on trial for killing Chi and lied that it was an accident

But it appears residents of New Tredegar delved further and found out more about his terrible past using Google.

Gaut was found dead with severe facial and head injuries in his council-owned flat.

Villager are furious that Gaut was housed in a council flat in their community.

They became suspicious after Gaut 'bragged' to them he had served time for 33 years.

A local, who did not want to be named, said: 'We got to know him quite well since he'd moved in.

'He used to go on about how he had been in prison for 33 years. He bragged about it. He told us he had shot a soldier but he told us he had been set up.

'We were in his flat and saw his middle name was Tracy on the letters he had.

'We thought that was unusual so I googled him to see if I could find out what he had done.

'That's when we saw the details of what he did to the baby boy. We couldn't believe it.

'It's disgusting. I can't believe we have been living (near) that. Apparently he's been moved three times since he's been out if prison. Word got out then about what he had done.'

Another woman said: 'He then said he had shot someone a long time ago but we knew that wasn't true. Everyone knew he killed a baby and everyone was talking about it.'

Neighbours say police have been combing the area and looking inside wheelie bins while forensics officers were photographing the lawn outside his home.

Searches are also believed to have been carried out in a river behind the properties.

One man said: 'They've been looking everywhere. There was a burnt out car that they were looking at.

'They've been in our bins and looked in the river as well.'

Forensic teams, pictured at the scene, have also inspected a burnt out car today

Three men have been arrested after the murder, which took place at Gaut's basement flat (pictured today)

Police are also searching the river behind the property and wheelie bin, reportedly for a weapon

Another local said he had spoken to David Gaut but had no idea of his crimes.

He said: 'I helped to move his TV into the his house. He's only been here a matter of weeks.

'He told me that had served 33 years but said he didn't do it. I didn't ask questions.

'I was away when it happened so I didn't hear anything but I'm not surprised. You don't know who is moving into this street any more.

'I didn't have much to do with him but I spoke to him from time to time.

'The police have been combing all the grass so it looks like they are looking for a murder weapon.

'I've lived [nearby] for years and it used to be great. We used to have lovely street parties. It's all changed now.'

The Ministry of Justice today confirmed that there had been a risk assessment before Gaut moved in last month.

A Prison and Probation Service spokesperson said: 'Thorough risk assessments are carried out before deciding on accommodation for offenders released on licence.

'There is an ongoing police investigation, so it would be in appropriate to comment further.'

Toddler Chi was tortured and murdered in Caerphilly.

Gaut, then 21, was jailed for life in July 1985 after babysitting his girlfriend's son Chi Ming Shek - known as Marky - when he battered, kicked, and burned the sole of the child's foot.

The baby's mother, Jane Pickthall, then 23, had been out drinking and left Gaut to look after her two young children.

She arrived home in Caerphilly, South Wales, and had sex with Gaut - but the next day she found her son's dead body under a chest of drawers.

A murder trial at Cardiff Crown Court heard Gaut tried to make the death look accidental.

He said at the time the boy had tripped and fallen down the stairs.

But pathologist Dr Owen Williams said the baby's injuries could only have been caused by punching, kicking, falling, being thrown or a combination of these.

Prosecutor Aubrey Myerson QC said while the mum was out neighbours heard loud noises - including banging and crashes.

Miss Pickthall told a jury how she found Marky dead underneath a chest of drawers in his bedroom. She could see he was badly bruised in the groin area, chest and forehead.

Mr Myerson said: 'The killing did not arise from just one attack but from a series of assaults.'

Unemployed Gaut told police Marky had got out of the cot and claimed he smacked the tot's bottom but he fell down the stairs.

He said he gave Marky mouth to mouth and put him back in the cot - because he 'looked all right'.

The baby died of multiple injuries including a broken arm, injured liver and spleen and a fractured skull.

Neighbours spoke of their shock and some said they do not feel safe in the area while others were 'convinced' the victim was the same man as the convicted killer.

Residents at Long Row, New Tredegar, said that Gaut told them that he had spent time in prison 'for a crime he didn't do'.

Mr Gaut was found dead at home but police have refused to reveal whether or not he was the child killer

Others spoke of their shock and say they do not feel safe after a series of people were moved into social housing.

One neighbour, who did not want to be named, said: 'It used to be just old age pensioners and disabled people but about two months ago they started to move in other people.

'I don't feel safe to stay here. I'd like to move unless they do something about it. We have a school at the end of the road - 100 yards away.'

Two men, aged 23 and 51, of New Tredegar and a man, 47, of Aberbargoed, have been arrested on suspicion of murder. They are currently in police custody for questioning.

A spokesman said: 'The cause of death has yet to be established and will be determined following a post mortem examination. Anyone with information should call Gwent Police.'
Outgoing House Speaker Paul Ryan says he used to think the president was praising him when he called him a 'Boy Scout' until the GOP-controlled legislature started passing legislation and President Trump said he'd stop using the nickname.

The Wisconsin congressman who has had a mixed relationship with the president told the New York Times in an exit-interview style profile, 'l thought it was a compliment.'

'I guess he meant it as an insult all along,' Ryan said. 'I didnt realize.'

Outgoing House Speaker Paul Ryan says he used to think the president was praising him when he called him a 'Boy Scout' until the GOP-controlled legislature started passing legislation and President Trump said he'd stop using the nickname

It took some time for Ryan to catch on, but he he indicated in the interview that he now understand the bombastic president's style.

Take Trump's news conference in July with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where the American president seemed to let the opposing leader off the hook for election meddling that the intelligence community says the Kremlin directed.

'I thought it was a really bad press conference,' Ryan said, echoing what many in his party have suggested or outright said.

He said of the fiasco and the president's tweets blaming the media for bad coverage, Trump just likes to troll 'you guys' by making statements that send his critics into a tailspin.

'[Trump] just wants to see your heads explode, and he just wants you to spend the next 12 hours talking about this,' he said.

Ryan clarified that he was referring to 'the people who dont like him' and 'The non-Trumpers.' He admitted that 'sometimes' he's part of the group that's being trolled.

Yet he also revealed in the profile that the president typically calls after television appearances to compliment him.

'He said he thought I looked good,' Ryan told writer Mark Leibovich after a call with the president that interrupted their interview.

The president had also called to get on the same page with the speaker of the House about trade. Trump would be meeting the next day with the same group of European officials that Ryan had spoken to on Capitol Hill.

President Trump's tariffs have irked some on the right, especially the free traders who believe the U.S. should lead the way in removing barriers instead of using retaliatory tactics.

Trump's brand of politics has split the Republican Party and is expected in November to make or break the party's majority. The president says that against the odds -- the party with the Oval Office often suffers at the ballot box in mid-term elections -- that he believes there will be a Red Wave.

It wouldn't be the first time he was correct about about the polls versus reality. After all, few but Trump and his followers predicted that he'd win the 2016 presidential election.

'It was shocking to me,' Ryan told the New York Times of Trump's ascension. 'I didnt see it coming. It threw me off.'

Trump's brand of politics has split the Republican Party and is expected in November to make or break the party's majority. Ryan is himself leaving Congress and getting out of politics

Ryan refused in 2016 to campaign for the Republican candidate for president after Trump's hot mic Hollywood Access tape hit the Internet. He has worked with Trump as speaker, though, to implement their shared goals. The former Ways and Means committee chairman was a driving force behind Republicans' tax cut legislation.

'I think some people would like me to start a civil war in our party and achieve nothing,' he said of criticism that he's been too easy on the Republican president since Trump took office.

By working with the president instead of against him, Ryan said he's been able to help guide Trump away from tragic actions.

'I can look myself in the mirror at the end of the day and say I avoided that tragedy, I avoided that tragedy, I avoided that tragedy,' Ryan said. 'I advanced that goal, I advanced that goal, I advanced that goal.'

He declined to say what potential 'tragedies' he was referring to in the comments.

The outgoing speaker told The Times: 'Im very comfortable with the decisions Ive made.

Adding, 'I would make them again, do it again the same way.'
A volcanic eruption which has destroyed hundreds of homes in Hawaii has slowed to a virtual standstill after three months.

On Monday geologists said Kilauea, on Hawaii's Big Island, had slowed to a halt for the first time in three months, but stressed it was too soon to say what might happen next.

Tina Neal, chief scientist at the US Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, said lava is now just bubbling at one vent, known as Fissure 8.

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Lava is no longer flowing from Kilauea on Hawaii after three months of eruptions

The volcano has destroyed hundreds of homes but now just one vent remains active

Levels of sulfur dioxide gas vented from the fissure, about 25 miles from its summit crater, have also dropped dramatically, she said.

At the eruption's peak there were as many as two dozen fissures.

The subdued activity there coincided with another major collapse in the outer wall of the summit crater last Thursday, followed by a final flurry of earthquakes before the peak of the volcano grew still.

'The system appears to have almost shut down completely over the course of a couple of days,' Neal told reporters on a conference call.

She said it was 'all consistent with something turning off the spigot to the surface.'

At this point, the volcanic reservoir at the bottom of the summit crater appeared 'significantly drained' of magma - the term for molten rock before it erupts - that was feeding the lava vents downslope at the surface.

Geologists have said lava can be seen bubbling in the vent but is no longer flowing

It is believed the eruption is the most destructive of any in Hawaii's recorded history

It was a river of lava from Fissure 8 that had crept eastward to the ocean, engulfing two seaside housing developments before pouring into the Pacific.

Hundreds more dwellings have been swallowed closer to the eruption site.

The property losses marked the most destructive eruption event of Kilauea or any other volcano in Hawaii's recorded history.

Neal said it remains to be seen whether the reduced flow at Fissure 8 will turn out to be a brief pause or an extended lull, or whether other vents will reactivate.

A similar 88-day eruption in the lower east rift zone in 1955 was punctuated by one pause of five days and one lasting 16 days, Neal said.

Neal said scientists would be surprised if the summit crater produced any new major eruptions in the near future.

The current shift in volcanic activity happened as Hurricane Hector churned across the Pacific toward Hawaii, with forecasters predicting it would skirt past the southern coast of the Big Island on Wednesday.

Neal said the storm would have no effect on the volcano, except for the possibility of large steam clouds producing 'white-out' conditions in areas where heavy rain falls on top of molten lava that has yet to thoroughly cool.
An entire crew of Latino construction workers staged a walkout at their job to protest their racist boss after he fired several of their co-workers for no apparent reason.

A video of the walkout was shared Wednesday on YouTube by Antoine Dangerfield, who worked at the Indianapolis construction site building a UPS hub.

In the video, several Latino workers are seen putting their equipment up and walking out of the building. According to Dangerfield, their boss became irate during a meeting and sent a couple Latino workers home, so they all decided to leave early.

'Who y'all think y'all playing with,' Dangerfield says, cursing and laughing throughout the video. 'Mexico ... man, this what black people need to be on. ... They are packing they s*** up and shutting this muthaf***** down.'

An entire crew of Latino construction workers staged a walkout to protest their boss after he unfairly fired their co-workers

The workers left because they their safety coordinator boss got mad during a meeting and reportedly started firing some of the Latino workers

Antoine Dangerfield posted the video to social media, and it quickly got millions of views. He ended the video by showing the empty construction site

'They thought they was gonna play with these amigos, and they said, "Yeah, we rise together, homie". And they leaving!'' he added.

The video later shows the warehouse completely empty.

Dangerfield told Jacobin magazine that their safety coordinator boss is racist and 'was always messing with anybody's who's not white'. He said the Latino workers tried to stay out of their boss' way.

'They warned each other when he came because they know he was always messing with them, taking pictures and videos, trying to get them fired,' Dangerfield said. 'We have safety meetings, and we usually have a translator (for Spanish speakers) because there are so many.'

He said on Tuesday, they had a safety meeting but no translator was available so their boss asked one of the Latino workers to do it. When the worker refused, their boss became irate, Dangerfield said.

'(The coordinator) got mad, real red-faced. Next thing you know, he dismissed the meeting. So, he's walking around just sending them home, trying to fire them. So he sent like five or six of them home. So the Hispanics got together and were like, "Nah, we got families and kids. We're not about to let these dudes just do whatever". So they took a stand,' he said.

Dangerfield, who said they were building a UPS superhub, said he was fired from the job as a result of the video

Dangerfield said he filmed the walkout because he thought it was 'powerful'.

'It just felt good. They were walking out with their heads up, strong. It touched me. Thats why I was like, wow, this is beautiful. It was beautiful that they came together like that  stood up for themselves and not let that dude walk all over them,' he said.

The safety coordinator was fired after the video went viral.

The Indiana father said he lost his job too for posting the video and refusing to take it down.

'They're real made about it. But there's nothing I could do about it. I didn't expect it to be this big,' he said.

Since posting the video last Wednesday, it has been viewed more than eleven million times and attracted the attention of celebrities like Snoop Dogg and J Cole.

'I was shocked. I come in here every day. The last video I posted got two likes! I wasnt trying to harm anybody,' he told Jacobin, saying he doesn't regret posting it.

Friends of Dangerfield created a GoFundMe to raise money for him and his son as he searches for a new job. So far, they have raised more than $35,000.
A Canadian journalist who was kidnapped, tortured and raped for 15 months in war-torn Somalia has told how she was forced to the brink of committing suicide before the sight of a bird stopped her.

Freelance journalist Amanda Lindhout was just 26 when she traveled to the volatile east African nation's capital of Mogadishu in 2008 alongside her then boyfriend, 36-year-old Australian photographer Nigel Brennan.

On August 23, their third day in the country, the pair were kidnapped and abductors called their families and demanded a $1.5million ransom for each of them in exchange for their lives.

For the 15 months that followed the pair were beaten, starved and Lindhout was repeatedly raped.

Now nine years on and two months after the man behind the kidnapping was jailed, she recounts how she came to the 'calm decision' that she was going to use a small razor to take her own life 13 months into the ordeal as she couldn't take the torture any longer.

'I was really getting close to making this decision,' she told Australia's Channel Seven. '[And] as the morning sun was coming up... a little bit of movement caught my eye... and there was a bird hopping around in this little bit of light.'

'I'd always believed in signs of a messenger, in a way, to hold on,' she said.

'And that bird was a messenger.

'The desire to end my life left me and it never came back and this amazing feeling just flooded through my body, which was determination to survive no matter what; that I would have my freedom again; I would see my family.'

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Canadian journalist Amanda Lindhout (pictured) who was kidnapped, tortured and raped over the course of 15 months in war-torn Somalia has revealed the details of her horrific ordeal

Lindhout (left) was just 26 when she traveled to the volatile east African nation's capital of Mogadishu in 2008 alongside 36-year-old Australian photographer Nigel Brennan (right). They are pictured in this 2009 file photo in Somalia's capital Mogadishu after they were freed

Lindhout, from Red Deer, Alberta, was not affiliated with any news organisation at the time of her kidnapping but had completed assignments in Somalia for France 24 and had previously worked in Iraq and Afghanistan. Brennan had no experience of war zones.

She described in the interview from the moment they were kidnapped to a failed escape attempt and finally their release after a ransom was paid.

'We were going to an internally displaced people's camp. That was going to be the big story that we were in Somalia for.

'We're on a big open highway road and we see a car pulled over off to the side up ahead. Within minutes what unfolded was like something out of a nightmare.

'There were about a dozen armed men who had been hiding behind that parked car. And the next thing I knew I had been abducted,' she said.

After their capture she said they were constantly moved to different houses and the pair converted to Islam as they believed doing so might improve their treatment from their captors, but it did not.

After four months, in the middle of the night, the aspiring journalist was strong-armed into a car and driven out into the center of the desert.

'They took me out of the car under this tree, pulled my head back, and the next thing I knew there was a knife at my throat,' she recalled.

'One of them was telling me that they were going to give me 30 seconds to convince my mother to pay the money within seven days or they were going to behead me.'

Then, after five months, Lindhout and Brennan attempted to escape.

The pair managed to loosen several bricks and jump out of a window before fleeing to a nearby crowded mosque - only to be pursued by their armed captors.

As the Somali kidnappers entered the building behind them, Lindhout recounts a surreal story of a woman, clothed head-to-toe in a full Islamic hijab, stepping forward to embrace her.

'She pulled me into her arms and in English she called me her sister,' Lindhout said. 'And then she turns to our kidnappers begging them to let us go.

'[But] the next thing I knew one of them had grabbed me around my ankles and was dragging me by my feet across the floor of the mosque. I was being taken to the door where the truck was parked... [and] they brought Nigel out in the same way.'

Emotionally, Lindhout revealed that 'as we drove off there was a gunshot inside the mosque and I still don't know what happened to that amazing woman'.

She also goes on to recall the 'punishment' she received as a result of her failed escape attempt.

Locked in a pitch-black room, the sexual assaults she had been subjected to suddenly escalated in both frequency and intensity.

This file pictures shows Somali security forces near the presidential palace in war-torn Mogadishu, on July 14, 2018. Lindhout was kidnapped from Mogadishu as she headed to a refugee camp to cover a story

Finally, 460 days after being captured, Lindhout and Brennan were set free after their families scraped together thousands of dollars and begged for their lives.

A small handful of men entered the room where Lindhout was being kept and sawed off the chains that had been clapped around her ankles.

Ali Omar Ader (pictured) was sentenced to 15 years in jail in Canada for orchestrating the kidnapping

Moments later, she and Brennan were carried out into a waiting vehicle and driven several hours to another location - all the while still believing that they were merely entering another phase of their imprisonment.

It was only after they were surrounded by 40 armed Somali men and approached by a man presenting a cell phone that the reality of their rescue became clear.

'I'm totally confused and I put it to my ear and my mum's on the other end and she says to me, "Amanda, you're free,''' Lindhout recounted.

'And all of these people had been organised by our families to get us out of Somalia... a ransom had been paid, and we came to understand all the ways that our freedom had come to be and the incredible sacrifices that people had made.'

Lindhout (right) appeared on Andrew Denton's (left) Interview program to retell her horrific story

Now, Lindhout (pictured) finds immeasurable value in those simple pleasures she'd previously taken for granted: 'The ability to move my body... the freedom to use the toilet when I wanted to... to be able to see the sky again'

After pretending to convert to Islam and making a plan to escape, @amandalindhout & Nigel made a daring dash away from captivity, hoping to find saving at a nearby mosque. #InterviewAU pic.twitter.com/S6Pvc9paIM  Andrew Denton's "Interview" (@InterviewAU) August 7, 2018

Now, nearly nine years later, Lindhout finds immeasurable value in those simple pleasures she'd previously taken for granted.

'The ability to move my body... the freedom to use the toilet when I wanted to... to be able to see the sky again,' she said.

'Just to be able to see the sky again, that's over our head every day. I had never really looked up and really appreciated it until after my freedom.'

On June 18, the man who had orchestrated the kidnapping and the ransom Ali Omar Ader was sentenced to 15 years in jail in Canada.

Ontario Superior Court Justice Robert Smith handed down the sentence after ruling that the 40-year-old Somalian national was a 'willing participant' in the hostage-taking.

Ader had denied charges and claimed he was forced into serving as a negotiator and translator on behalf of a gang which threatened to harm him and his family.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) lured Ader from Somalia to Canada with the promise of a lucrative book-publishing deal, leading to his arrest in Ottawa in June 2015.

Ader had held many telephone conversations with Lindhouts mother demanding the ransom and told undercover officers that he had received $10,000 for his role in the kidnapping.

Lindhout was called upon to testify in front of him. She described both her testimony and the victim impact statement that went with it as an 'extremely difficult' process, albeit one that came with 'huge pieces of closure and healing'.

Finally, 460 days after being captured, Lindhout (left in 2014 with a book she has written) and Brennan (right in 2008) were set free

.@AmandaLindhout describes the first few months of captivity and how having her Aussie friend Nigel with her brought "some protection". #InterviewAU pic.twitter.com/F8z08rhh5U  Andrew Denton's "Interview" (@InterviewAU) August 7, 2018

The now 36-year-old also reflects that she feels 'lighter' for it: 'I feel like I have let go of something.'

And for all her lingering fears and anxieties, one thing that doesn't scare Lindhout is the prospect of forever being a victim to her past - or the idea that mankind lacks decency.

'I absolutely believe in the goodness of humankind,' she declares.

'It'd be easy to watch the news and think that the world is mostly bad people doing terrible things and it's just absolutely not true. That is a small handful of people who, themselves, carry a great deal of pain that leads them to hurt other people.

'But actually, our world is just full of such kindness and goodness and compassion and I certainly experience that every day.'

Brennan published a memoir the Price of a Life in 2011 while Lindhout's released a memoir, A House in the Sky, in 2013. The former couple no longer speak.
A routine domestic violence visit by a Florida deputy turned into complete mayhem when a Mexican man was shot dead after he grabbed the cops stun gun and refused to return it.

Deputy Brandon Watson was responding to a domestic disturbance call at the home of Emmanuel Alquisira, 29, last Friday when it turned deadly.

The Mexican immigrant had just arrived from work and was sitting at the top of the entrance to the familys home in rural Seville, when the cops arrived.

Alquisiras wife could be seen trying to approach Watson, saying in Spanish that her husband had physically harmed her in the past.

Alquisira, a father of four, then tried to push away his wife, who is unnamed in the police report, before Watson interceded and tasered the Mexican man from behind, around the 5:30 mark of the video that was released to the public.

Emmanuel Alquisira (pictured seated left) was approached by Deputy Brandon Watson of the Volusa County Sheriff's Office during a domestic violence call last Friday in Seville, Fla. Alquisira was shot five times after he grabbed the officer's Taser and attempted to use it.

Emmanuel Alquisira (pictured left) is tasered in this image of the video provided by the Volusa County Sheriff's Office. Alquisira was tasered by Deputy Brandon Watson after the Mexican man pushed away wife during a domestic violence call that the officer was attending last Friday in Seville, Fla. Moments after Alquisira was tasered, he took the stun gun from Watson and was later shot five times by the cop, who almost got tasered ,too.

Deputy Brandon Watson (pictured holding firearm) of the Volusa County Sheriff's Office told Emmanuel Alquisira that he needed to return back the Taser during a domestic violence call at his home last Friday in Seville, Fla. Alquisira didn't obey the officer's demands and was shot five times, dying on the scene.

Watson, who's been a member of the department for three years, could then be seen trying to subdue Alquisira and fired his Taser again as Alquisira pleaded him to stop.

Alquisira, who had previously been arrested a number of time, was then able to wrestle the stun gun away from the responding officer.

With his kids inside the apartment Alquisira could then be seen begging for Watson to shoot him, ignoring police orders to place his hands behind his back.

Emmanuel Alquisira (pictured center) attempts to push his wife away from the scene of a domestic violence call in Seville, Fla., last Friday. The Mexican man, whose wife said he had beaten multiple times, was then stunned by a responding officer. The cop shot Alquisira after the suspect took possession of the Taser and tried using it on the police officer before being shot five times and dying at the family home.

Deputy Brandon Watson (pictured holding firearm) of the Volusa County Sheriff's Office told Emmanuel Alquisira is tasered during a domestic violence call at his home last Friday in Seville, Fla. Alquisira didn't obey the officer's demands after he took the cop's stun gun and was shot five times moments later, dying on the scene.

An unidentified man confronted the Volusa County Sheriff's Office Deputy Brandon Watson, asking him why he shot his friend, Emmanuel Alquisira, during the domestic violence call in Seville, Fla., last Friday. Alquisira died on the scene.

Youre going to shoot me? Alquisira asked. Shoot me. Kill me. Kill me man.

I want to die in front of my wife.

Alquisira then demanded Watson to call your amigos [backup police officers] and attempted to taser Watson before the deputy answered shooting him five times at approximately 7:39PM.

A man claiming to be Alquisiras brother arrived seconds after the shooting and rushed up the flight of stairs and encountered Watson before the public video recording came to an end.

A Tweet from Sheriff Mike Chitwood backed Deputy Brandon Watson's use of force during an altercation in a domestic violence call that ended the life of the suspect, Emmanuel Alquisira.

Watson since then was placed on administrative leave.

While county Sheriff Mike Chitwood lamented Alquisira's death, he supported Watson' use of force during the altercation on a message posted early Saturday morning on his Twitter account, @SHERIFFCHITWOOD.

'After watching the body camera video of last night's deputy-involved shooting, it's clear to me that this deputy was placed in a terrible situation & did everything he could to try and convince this man to stop fighting. I stand behind the deputy 100%.'
A Royal Navy warship has shadowed two Russian warships as they passed through the English Channel.

Type 45 destroyer HMS Diamond sailed from Dover, Kent, to monitor the Russian destroyer Severomorsk and cruiser Marshal Ustinov on Tuesday as they passed through the UK's area of interest which is either the UK's territorial waters or near to this area.

Commander Ben Keith, the commanding officer of the Portsmouth-based ship, said: 'HMS Diamond is proud to once again be playing her part in protecting the UK by monitoring these vessels on their transit.

A British Type 45 destroyer, HMS Diamond, pictured front, shadowing two Russian warships, destroyer Severomorsk and cruiser Marshal Ustinov as they passed through English Channel

'This is routine business for the Royal Navy and the second time my ship's company have undertaken such an escort duty this summer.

'While many families are enjoying their summer holidays, my ship's company are working hard at sea to keep Britain safe and will continue to do so for as long as we are required.

'I would like to thank the families of my crew whose support is vital while we carry out our duty to the nation.'

A navy spokesman said: 'The Udaloy-class destroyer Severomorsk and Slava-class cruiser Marshal Ustinov have just finished taking part in the Russian Navy Days event in the Baltic port of St Petersburg and are now deploying out of the area.

A Navy warship shadowed two Russian warships as they passed through the English Channel

'Overnight HMS Diamond has maintained watch in UK waters, monitoring the Russian warships as they approach the UK coast.

'As the ships entered the busy shipping lanes between Norfolk and continental Europe, Diamond manoeuvred into formation alongside them and made them aware of her presence.

'The ships were then escorted towards the Dover strait, one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world.

'HMS Diamond continues to monitor the ships, remaining with them as they transit past Dover and along the south coast of England, after which they are expected to continue south, exiting the UK area of interest. '

Russian warships have passed through the English Channel as Putin's troop's continue to put pressure on the Royal Navy (Pictured: Anti-submarine destroyer Severomorsk)

At the beginning of the year, frigate HMS Westminster was dispatched to keep track on the activities of two Russian frigates and their support vessels returning to the Baltic after operations in the Middle

East, while HMS St Albans monitored the new Russian warship Admiral Gorshkov at Christmas.

And in June HMS Diamond and a Wildcat helicopter from 815 Naval Air Squadron at RNAS Yeovilton were dispatched to follow the underwater reconnaissance ship Yantar after it approached the UK coast.

The RAF is also involved in monitoring Russian activity.

In January, two Russian Blackjack bombers were intercepted by the RAF over the North Sea.

Two RAF Typhoon fighter jets were scrambled from RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland but the Russian aircraft did not enter sovereign UK airspace.

After HMS St Albans escorted Admiral Gorshkov through the North Sea on Christmas Day last year, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said he would 'not hesitate in defending our waters or tolerate any form of aggression'.

He said: 'Britain will never be intimidated when it comes to protecting our country, our people, and our national interests.'

Relations between the UK and Russia remain frosty over the Novichok poisonings in Wiltshire.

Two Russians suspected of carrying out the Salisbury novichok posionings have been identified but the Kremlin will to block the UK's attempts to extradite them, it was reported last night.

Russian state media revealed that Russian missile cruiser Marshal Ustinov and anti-submarine destroyer Severomorsk have sailed past Britain on their way to the Atlantic (Pictured: Marshal Ustinov)

Prosecutors are believed to have finished the extradition paperwork in a bid to put the suspects on trial for the poisonings of Sergei and Yulia Skripal, Dawn Sturgess and Charlie Rowley.

The request is likely to be rejected by Moscow but will likely reignite the bitter diplomatic row which erupted following the poisoning of former spy Skripal and his daughter.

Police identified the two suspects after months of 'painstaking' work to piece together the Russians' movements, the Guardian reported.

The extradition requests have reportedly been finalised and are 'ready to go' after police tracked down the Russians they believe were responsible.

A source with knowledge of the inquiry said the suspects had been identified through cross-checking CCTV footage with records of people entering the country around the time of the attack.

Neither the Metropolitan Police, which has been leading the investigation into the attack, nor the CPS was prepared to discuss the report.

The Home Office said that as a matter of long-standing policy and practice, the UK would neither confirm nor deny an extradition request had been made or received until such time as an arrest has been made in relation to that request.
Obsessed: Canadian pilot Michael Callan (pictured in an undated photo), 45, was killed in a 2013 small-plane crash outside Nashville; records show he was obsessed with, and had written to, young American celebrities

The Canadian pilot who was killed in a 2013 Nashville crash had written a stack of letters to Taylor Swift, according to newly released National Transportation Safety Board records.

WSMV-TV obtained the internal records through a Freedom of Information Act request and reported on Monday.

It was previously reported by Canadian news outlets that the deceased pilot, 45-year-old Michael Callan, was also infatuated with then-teenage Nickelodeon star Miranda Cosgrove and had written letters to her as well.

An NTSB investigation released in 2016 concluded Callan was legally drunk and obsessed with an unnamed Nashville celebrity when he tried to land a small plane at Nashville International Airport amid dense fog. Callan was the plane's sole occupant.

But the internal records include a 2012 mental health evaluation in which the expert conducting the assessment said Callan's letters to Swift 'have the flavor of stalking.'

Callan had also listed Swift as his emergency contact on his membership application to the Windsor Flying Club, where he rented the plane.

Swift's publicist has said the then-Nashville resident did not know Callan, who had multiple criminal convictions for a slew of bank robberies and child pornography charges in his native Canada.

An NTSB report showed Callan had written multiple letters to Taylor Swift (pictured in New York City last month) that had 'the flavor of stalking.' He also had written to then-17-year-old Nickelodeon star Miranda Cosgrove (right), asking to marry him

This screenshot shows the wreckage of the single-engine Cessna 172 Callan was flying when he crashed in foggy condition in Nashville in October 2013

Footage from the scene showed the burnt out hull of a plane sitting just to the right of one of the airports main runways

The single-engine Cessna 172 crashed early on the morning of October 28, 2013, at Nashville International Airport and burst into flames, killing the pilot.

Despite the plane setting on fire, the crash went unnoticed until it was seen at 8.45am by the pilot of a large commercial jet taxiing by the wreckage.

Radio transmissions aired on WSMV, detailed the confusion on the ground shortly after the charred aircraft was first noticed. The tower had no idea what had happened.

Just to verify, there is debris on the field just before you get to [runway] two center? The tower asked. Is it off the runway?

Roger, confirmed the pilot.

He says its about 500 feet from the approach it appears that something may have gone off the right side of the runway, the tower continued.

The 2016 NTSB report stated that Callan's prior criminal actions and impulsive behavior were 'consistent with anti-social personality disorder, which likely led to his impetuous decision to fly to Nashville'.

Callan's flying club membership listed Taylor Swift as his emergency contact

It went on to say the pilot was likely unaware until he arrived at the Nashville airport that it was under a dense fog, and his attempt to land in that fog after circling the airport for two hours was the principal cause of the accident.

'He was unable to safely land the airplane with no visual contact with the runway,' the report stated.

Contributing factors to the crash were Callan's mental state, his alcohol consumption and his decision to fly to Nashville without the plane owner's permission or proper flight clearances.

Long before the crash, Callan had made a name for himself as arguably the most famous bank robber in the history of Windsor, Canada, having reportedly carried out at least five heists in a matter of just 11 months in 1997, according to the National Post.

Callan was ultimately apprehended, convicted of the robberies and sentenced to 12 years in prison.

While serving his sentence, Callan was described as a racist inmate who exposed himself to, and pleasured himself in front of, female corrections officers.

He also reportedly took to writing letters to another Nashville-based young celebrity, Nickelodeon star Miranda Cosgrove, who was 17 years old at the time and starring in the series iCarly.

In his letters to the teenage TV star, which he signed using an alias, Leo Pilot Leon, the middle-aged convicted bank robber drew Cosgrove's pictures, told her he wanted to marry her and even offered her legal control over his finances.

'I admit being obsessed with you and only you,' he gushed in one letter to Cosgrove.

In another, he waxed poetic about how he dreamed of flying the two of them to a vineyard outside Nashville, just over 30 miles from the site of the 2013 crash.

At a parole hearing in 2011 preceding his release from prison, a judge barred Callan from contacting Cosgrove, but not Swift, after the convict told the court he had gotten over the pop star and was now interested in Cosgrove.

In December 2011, six months after regaining his freedom, Callan again broke the law and landed back in prison for several months, this time for pleasuring himself while watching what looked like child pornography inside a bookstore.
The rate of non-immigration prosecutions at the southern U.S. border was down 57 percent in June compared to March as federal officials changed focus under the Trump administration's zero-tolerance immigration policy, according to a new report.

In March 2018, non-immigration prosecutions accounted for one in seven (14 percent) of all total prosecutions at the southern border's five federal districts.

That rate fell steadily over the next several months, and by June the ratio had fallen to one in seventeen (or six percent) of all prosecutions, according to an analysis of government data by the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University.

In March 2018, non-immigration prosecutions accounted for one in seven (14 percent) of all total prosecutions at the southern border's five federal districts. By June the ratio had fallen to one in seventeen (or six percent) of all prosecutions

'Unless crimes are suddenly less prevalent in the districts along the southwest border, the odds of being prosecuted for many federal offenses have declined,' the report found.

The timing of the change coincides with the Trump administration's April 6 announcement that the government was taking a zero-tolerance approach to immigration at the southern U.S. border.

Statisticians at TRAC concluded that the push to prioritize prosecuting illegal border crossers had taken focus away from other crimes that federal prosecutors are charged with enforcing  including narcotics trafficking, weapons offenses and pollution crimes, among other things.

'There are these capacity issues; everything can't be your top priority,' said Susan Long, a statistician for TRAC. 'I think it's difficult to believe that the stepped-up immigration prosecutions were just happenstance and didn't have anything to do with policy.'

What they've deprioritized is absolutely insane. -Former immigration judge Paul Wickham Schmidt

Former immigration judge Paul Wickham Schmidt agreed, saying most illegal immigration cases are misdemeanors that result in time served  typically 2-3 days.

'Courts have limited capacity, prosecutors have limited capacity and when you prioritize one thing that means deprioritizing something else,' he said. 'In this case, what they've deprioritized is absolutely insane. There are real crimes out there.'

The TRAC report also bolsters assertions by San Diego-based Justice Department prosecutor Fred Sheppard that the zero-tolerance policy would be 'diverting staff, both support and attorneys, accordingly' from non-immigration cases, according to a June report by USA Today.

Sheppard warned border authorities that prioritizing immigration cases would 'occupy substantially more of our resources,' according to an email obtained by the paper.
Britain will remain a 'tier one' military power with the ability to deploy forces around the world, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has said.

Speaking on a visit to Washington where he was holding talks with US defence secretary general James Mattis, Mr Williamson said the UK would continue to be 'reliable partners for the long term'. He also took the opportunity to accuse Russia of adopting the tactics of terrorists.

His comments came after Theresa May caused consternation earlier this year when she refused to state explicitly that the UK would remain a 'tier one' power amid reports of clashes with Mr Williamson over future defence spending levels.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has vowed that the UK will remain a 'tier one' military power

Addressing the Atlantic Council think tank, Mr Williamson said: 'Britain is a major global actor. We have always been a tier one military power and we always will be a tier one military power.'

He pointed to the UKs independent nuclear deterrent, 'world class' special forces and cyber capabilities, and 'exceptional' conventional forces 'able to deploy indpendently around the globe'.

Mr Williamson also used his address to empahsise the continuing importance of Nato to the US after Donald Trump berated allies for failing to contribute more to the costs of their collective defence at last months alliance summit in Brussels.

The Defence Secretary pointed out that the only time Natos Article 5  which commits members to come to the defence of an ally which is attacked  had been invoked was after the 9/11 terror attacks on the Twin Towers in 2001.

Donald Trump berated allies for failing to contribute more to the costs of their collective defence at last months alliance summit in Brussels

The Defence Secretary said the only time Article 5 had been invoked was when the Twin Towers were attacked on September 11 (pictured, the attack in New York)

He said years of pressure by the US and the UK to persuade other allies that they needed to spend more on defence were now paying off, with eight member states set to meet the target of spending two per cent of their GDP on defence.

'Alongside the US, the UK has been pressing for the alliance to do more, to pay its way. We are now seeing the results. Last year saw Natos biggest spending increase in 25 years,' he said.

'Since making the investment pledge at the 2014 Wales summit, allies have spent 87 billion dollars more on defence. In just two years time that number will increase to at least 150 billion dollars.

'Increasingly we are seeing more partners pull their weight realising that they have got to spend more because of the increasing threat that the world faces.'

The Defence Secretary said Russia adopting the tactics of terrorists following the Salisbury nerve agent attack in March, which left one dead and three injured, including a former double-agent and his daughter.

He described Russia as increasingly aggressive and responsible for a pattern of malign behaviour, including political subversion and increased military posturing.
Paul Manafort's former deputy Rick Gates admitted to using offshore bank accounts to pay for a secret extramarital affair, including providing a London apartment for his mistress and luxury trips through Europe, during Manafort's tax and bank fraud trial on Tuesday afternoon.

Manafort's defense attorneys accused Gates of embezzling money from the former Trump campaign chairman to fund his 'secret life' and overseas mistress during an explosive exchange at the trial on Tuesday.

Gates also told the court he might have stolen money from the Trump inauguration committee while he was a staffer there after the election.

Gates, a 46-year-old married father of four and the government's key witness in the case, appeared to wither under cross examination from Manafort's attorneys, twitching and fumbling with his words when questioned about what the defense described as his 'secret life.'

'I acknowledge I had a period of time when I had another relationship,' admitted Gates. The woman was not named. He added: 'There is a period of time over 10 years ago when I had a relationship, yes.'

He acknowledged that as part of this relationship he purchased a 'flat in London' and flights to Ukraine, using money from foreign accounts that the defense says Gates stole from Manafort.

Gates acknowledged he also paid for 'fancy hotels' and 'trips to Europe' with around $2.5 million the defense claimed he embezzled.

He said he also used money to travel to Las Vegas for an unrelated work meeting with a movie producer, which he admitted could be considered embezzlement.

In court: Paul Manafort (left) sat a few feet away as Rick Gates, his former deputy, was questioned by prosecutor Greg Andres in front of Judge T. S. Ellis III (rear)

Happier times: Rick Gates (left) was at Paul Manafort side for more than a decade, including acting as his deputy when Manafort chaired Donald Trump's campaign. Both men were at the Cleveland Republican National Convention where Trump became the party's candidate

Manafort's defense team also questioned Gates about a plea deal he reached with the government, which required his to cooperate with prosecutors on the Manafort case in exchange for lenient sentencing guidelines and a reduction in criminal charges against him.

Gates acknowledged he had to plead guilty to false statements after lying during a February interview with federal investigators.

He said 'there's no question I struggled to get all the information out.'

He struggled under cross-examination to remember exactly what he had admitted to during interviews with investigators.

At one point, Downing asked him, 'Have they confronted you with so many lies that you can't even remember them?'

Manafort's attorney Kevin Downing asked Gates if he had embezzled money from the Trump inauguration committee while he was working there in late 2016.

'It's possible,' said Gates.

Gates also said he did not tell the Office of Special Counsel that he filed unauthorized expenses to the inauguration committee.

Gates, who was Manafort's deputy at the political consulting company DMP International, also appeared to get confused when pressed on how much money he expensed from the company's bank accounts without permission from Manafort.

When presented with a list of $3 million in his expenses by the defense, Gates initially told the court that some of the charges were authorized. He also admitted to previously telling investigators that six transfers, amounting to $450,000, were approved by Manafort.

'Have they confronted you with so many lies that you can't even remember them?' Paul Manafort's defense attorney Kevin Downing to Rick Gates

But when the defense asked him which charges from the list were authorized, Gates was unable to identify them.

The cross examination was contentious from the beginning, with Downing asking Gates, 'When did you begin providing false and misleading information to the Office of Special Counsel?'

Gates responded that he did not provide false information. The defense asked why he had pleaded guilty to lying to investigators.

'Under the one instance I did [provide false information],' replied Gates. 'Up until that point I had not.'

Gates bristled at the claim from Manafort's attorneys that he was living a 'secret life,' arguing that his wife is aware of the affair.

'It's not a secret life on account of my wife is aware of it,' he said.

He also told the court that he has taken responsibility for his actions by cooperating with prosecutors, and said he committed crimes during a 'difficult time' in his life.

'I was living beyond my means,' he said. 'It was a difficult timeI regret it clearly and I'm taking responsibility for it.'

During the cross examination, Gates sparred with Manafort's attorney about whether to describe his actions as 'embezzlement.'

'Why won't you say embezzlement?' demanded Downing, as Gates continued to refer to 'unauthorized' expenses he took from the company and asked 'what difference' his word choice made.

Under pressure from the defense Gates conceded, 'It was embezzlement from Mr. Manafort.'

Downing also prodded Gates about the lack of written records showing that Manafort ordered Gates to commit financial crimes on his behalf.

Gates said Manafort gave him most of these orders in verbal conversations in order to avoid a paper trail.

'After all the lies you toldyou expect the jury to believe you?' asked Downing.

Gates responded that he has taken responsibility for his actions, adding that Manafort has declined to do so.

'I'm here to tell the truth,' said Gates. 'I'm here to take responsibility for my actions. Mr. Manafort has the same path.'

Judge T.S. Ellis, who has been tough on the prosecution throughout the case, also interrupted Gates's testimony after Gates claimed Manafort closely monitored the money coming in and out of the company's offshore bank accounts.

'[Manafort] didn't know the amount of money you stole from him, did he?' asked the judge. 'So he didn't keep that close an eye on it.'

But the questioning prompted a dramatic halt to the trial when Downing asked Gates whether special counsel Robert Mueller's investigators had interviewed Gates about the campaign.

'I'm here to tell the truth. I'm here to take responsibility for my actions. Mr. Manafort has the same path. Rick Gates

That prompted an objection from prosecutors and a sidebar conference. After several minutes of discussion away from the jury and the public, U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III called for a 30-minute break, before resuming for the rest of the day without a single mention of the president.

As he left court Downing told reporters: 'Mr. Manafort had a great day in court.'

The testimony was a dramatic turn around after he told prosecutors about his and Manafort's financial affairs - including how strapped for cash, his boss told him to get his taxes lower, illegally.

Manafort wrote 'WTF' and 'not happy' in emails to Gates about his tax demands - then ordered them to be lowered as their company suffered money troubles, Gates told his fraud trial Tuesday.

Gates said the former Trump campaign chairman repeatedly voiced concerns that he was paying too much in taxes and ordered him to get the total down.

In one note described to the jury, Gates says Manafort in wrote the message about tax payments he was going to have to make: 'Rick, I just saw this. WTF?

'How could I be blindsided like this? You told me you were on top of this. We need to discuss options. This is a disaster.'

Gates says that he went on to help Manafort convert foreign income into loans as a way to reduce his tax bill. He later helped draft sham loan agreements and loan forgiveness letters, all at Manafort's direction, he told the jury. All are illegal.

Manafort went from making millions per year doing political consulting in Ukraine to having virtually zero contracts in the country, Gates testified, setting off a downward spiral that prosecutors say led Manafort to commit numerous financial crimes.

Gates, 46, who has been cooperating with the government since pleading guilty to obstruction of justice and conspiracy earlier this year, continued his second day of testimony at the former Trump campaign chairman's tax and bank fraud trial on Tuesday morning.

Paymaster: Among those funding Paul Manafort's company DMP was Viktor Pinchuk, a billionaire steel magnate, who in 2010 was a guest with his wife Elena at an Elton John Foundation benefit in New York where they posed with both Sir Elton and David Furnish

He had told the jury on Monday that the government had agreed not to oppose an application for probation even though the crimes he admitted to carry sentences of up to ten years.

Gates described how he and Manafort opened up a series of offshore shell companies and bank accounts in Cyprus with help from a Cyprus-based attorney known as 'Dr. K.'

Gates said the purpose of the accounts and companies was to receive consulting payments from Ukrainian businessmen, including Victor Pinchuk, a billionaire steel magnate who is seen as pro-Russia, Sergei Lovochkin, a politician and media owner, and Serhiy Tihipko, a banker who is also pro-Putin.

Judge T.S. Ellis III has banned the use of the word 'oligarch' in court, on Monday accusing prosecutors of 'throwing mud at these people' by using it.

The offshore shell companies and bank accounts in were set up in Cyprus to funnel the money from Ukraine, all while concealing the accounts and the income from the IRS.

Key client: Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovych and his Party of the Regions paid Manafort millions but when he fell in 2014, it started a downward spiral, Rick Gates told the court

'In Cyprus, they were documented as loans. In reality, it was basically money moving between accounts,' Gates said.

Manafort's defense attorneys have sought to paint Gates as an embezzler, liar and the instigator of any criminal conduct. They have several times tried to impugn his credibility before the jury.

Gates walked into a packed courtroom Tuesday, a day after he calmly acknowledged having embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort and said the two had committed crimes together by stashing money in foreign bank accounts and falsifying bank loan documents.

Manafort did not stare Gates down as he did on Monday. Instead, he glanced up at his former protege periodically but mostly stared intently at documents displayed for the jury on a screen in front of him. Gates remained focused on prosecutor Greg Andres and the jury.

Manafort and Gates were the first two people indicted in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into potential ties between Russia and the Trump campaign.

But Gates pleaded guilty months later and agreed to cooperate in Mueller's investigation of Manafort, the only American charged by the special counsel to opt for trial instead of a guilty plea.

Interest: Scores of people who waited in line for hours outside the courthouse and then jammed into both the courtroom and an overflow room

Gates, who said he has met with the government 20 times ahead of his testimony, is expected to remain on the stand for several hours Tuesday and then face a bruising cross-examination as defense lawyers try to undercut his credibility and pin the blame on him.

In a reflection of Gates' importance to the prosecution's case, a cart of about a half dozen green-and-white document boxes bearing his name was rolled into the courtroom ahead of his testimony.

The face-off between longtime business associates and former senior members of the Trump campaign drew scores of people who waited in line for hours outside the courthouse and then jammed into both the courtroom and an overflow room that contained a video feed of the proceedings.

The secrecy of the accounts that was provided in Cyprus was important to Manafort, according to Gates, because he did not want his name publicly connected to the money.

Although Manafort's name was not listed on the papers for the shell companies, his name was initially listed on some of the bank account documents, according to Gates.

Gates said Manafort eventually got his name removed from these records because he was being sued by an individual in Ukraine and did not want this person to know he had money stashed in Cyprus.

Gates said he would often make payments to vendors on Manafort's behalf, wiring money from the Cyprus accounts to pay for clothing purchases, home maintenance, and Manafort's other personal expenses.

He said he also had access to Manafort's electronic signature, but only used this when expressly authorized by Manafort.

According to Gates, Manafort specifically told him not to disclose the existence of the Cyprus accounts or shell companies to his personal book keeper Heather Washkuhn.

'Mr. Manafort had basically [advised] that we did not need to inform Ms. Washkuhn of these things,' said Gates.

He said Manafort secured a $4 million-per-year policy consulting contract with then-Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych in 2010, after Manafort helped him get elected president.

Watching daily: Paul Manafort's wife Kathleen (right) has been in court every day and arrived on Tuesday morning accompanied by a friend

In total, the former Trump campaign chairman reportedly collected around $60 million in consulting fees from Ukrainian oligarchs who backed Yanukovych and Ukraine's Party of Regions - $5 million of which was funnelled through offshore entities controlled by Manafort, according to Gates's testimony.

But after Yanukovych fell from power in 2014, Manafort's fortunes in Ukraine shifted dramatically.

'It decreased the income stream, and there was a change in the power structure,' said Gates.

Gates said Manafort's last project in Ukraine was helping the Opposition Bloc party in the 2014 parliamentary elections.

Manafort also did some work for Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, but this work was unpaid.

Gates said Manafort drafted a strategy memo for Ukraine's Opposition Bloc after the parliamentary election in 2014.

'The hope was this work would lead to an additional contract,' said Gates.

But the work never materialized, and Manafort's income 'substantially decreased compared to income he received in prior years,' according to Gates.

By 2015, Manafort had zero contracts in Ukraine, his former deputy told the court.

Meanwhile, the Party of Region's political patron, a Ukrainian billionaire named TK, never gave Manafort a promised $1 million payment for his work on the parliamentary elections, according to Gates.

TK eventually agreed to pay the political consultant $500,000 in July 2015, over a year after his work on the elections.

Once the contacts in Ukraine dried up, Manafort's extravagant spending in the United States began to catch up with him, according to Gates, and the former Trump campaign chairman struggled to pay his bills.
Former Trump personal attorney Michael Cohen is under investigation for tax fraud by federal prosecutors in New York.

Investigators are looking at whether Cohen's income from his taxi-medallion business was underreported in federal tax returns, The Wall Street Journal reported.

That income reportedly included hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash and other payments over the last five years.

Former Trump personal attorney Michael Cohen is under investigation for tax fraud

If convicted, Michael Cohen could face heavy jail time, which would put pressure on him to cooperate with prosecutors. Cohen's former partner in the taxi medallion business, Evgeny A. Freidman, is cooperating with prosecutors

Prosecutors also are looking into whether Cohen inflated the value of any of his assets as collateral for bank loans, the Journal reported citing sources familiar with the investigation.

If convicted of tax- and bank-fraud, Cohen, who once said he'd take a bullet for President Donald Trump, could find himself subject to heavy jail time.

That threat could put pressure on Cohen, once known as Trump's 'fixer,' to cooperate with prosecutors if he's charged with these crimes.

Cohen was Trump's personal attorney for years and has deep ties to the Trump Organization.

He is reportedly prepared to tell Special Counsel Robert Mueller that the president knew about the infamous June 2016 Trump Tower meeting ahead of time and approved of it.

That meeting was attended by Donald Trump Jr., Jared Kushner, then-Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort and a lawyer with ties to the Kremlin who claimed to have dirt on Trump's presidential rival Hillary Clinton.

Trump has denied he knew about the meeting ahead of time.

But that gathering at Trump Tower has become a central focus of Mueller's look into what role Russian played in the 2016 presidential election.

Meanwhile federal prosecutors are taking a deep dive into Cohen's business dealings after Mueller's team handed over documents discovered in an April 9th FBI raid.

They are looking closely at Cohen's relationship with Sterling National Bank, which provided financing for his taxi-medallion business. Medallions are the permits taxi drivers need to operate in the city.

Federal prosecutors subpoenaed Jeffrey Getzel, Cohen's former accountant who was responsible for preparing many of Cohen's financial statements.

Cohen's lawyer, Lanny Davis, declined to comment to the newspaper 'out of respect for the ongoing investigation.'

As of April 2018, Cohen owned 22 medallions in Chicago, and either he or his wife, Laura, controlled 32 medallions in New York City.

Taxi medallions were considered a solid investment that are bought and sold on a secondary market. Some in New York sold for an average $1.25 million per medallion in 2013 and 2014.

But their value has fallen sharply in recent years due to competition from ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft. Some estimate the value of each medallion has dropped to $200,000 to $225,000.

As prosecutors look at whether Cohen under reported his income to avoid federal taxes they're also examining whether he overstated it in loan applications.

Cohen has previously denied any wrongdoing.

He worked on projects for Trump ranging from Trump Tower Moscow that never got off the ground to a non-disclosure agreement with porn star Stormy Daniels, who claims she had an affair with Trump, and on a deal involving former Playboy model Karen McDougal, who also claimed an affair.

Trump has denied their allegations.

But Cohen also had his own business dealings including real estate, personal loans and investments in taxi medallions.

Evgeny A. Freidman, a Russian immigrant known as 'the Taxi King' and who partnered with Cohen in the taxi medallion business, avoided jail time and got five years probation when he pleaded guilty to tax evasion in May.

As a condition, he is cooperating with prosecutors, who may find him to be a valuable witness as they investigate Cohen on potential tax, campaign finance, and bank fraud charges.

His deal came after an April 9th FBI raid on Cohen's home, office, and hotel where he was staying. They scooped up 3.7 million digital documents.

If Freidman is able to provide useful information, it might strengthen prosecutors hands if they decide to charge Cohen.

Prosecutors are already combing through Cohen's financial records, including big payments he got from major firms as he touted his access to President Trump after the elections.

Also under the microscope is his $130,000 payment to porn star Stormy Daniels, who signed a nondisclosure agreement and claims she had an affair with Trump.

The president revealed last week on his financial disclosure that he 'reimbursed' Cohen for expenses related to a payment of up to $250,000.

Cohen is under investigation for possible bank fraud. He has said he took out a home equity loan in order to make the payment to Daniels, which he executed through a Delaware LLC he set up in October of 2016, weeks before the presidential election.
Hundreds of Portuguese firefighters and soldiers have battled ferocious forest fires that threatened to engulf an Algarve resort town, as meteorologists warned of 'significant winds' to come.

Images released by the European Space Agency appear to show the fires are visible from the International Space Station.

Sweltering temperatures kindled blazes that have whipped across the region as the Europe-wide heatwave sent the mercury above 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit) in some areas of Portugal at the weekend.

Fire crews struggled to extinguish wildfires around the mountain town of Monchique that have left 30 people injured, one seriously.

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The European Space Agency has released this image of drought stricken Portugal as seen from the International Space Station. Hundreds of firefighters are trying to extinguish wildfires around an Algarve resort town

In a picture taken by German astronaut and geophysicist Alexander Gerst, what appears to be a band of fire and plume of smoke around Monchique can be seen from the International Space Station

Thirty people have been injured in the fires so far, one seriously. Pictured are two firefighters in the Rasmalho area of Monchique

Hundreds of residents were forced to leave their homes while tourists - including Britons - were evacuated from a plush hotel.

Interior minister Eduardo Cabrito said the relief effort was being coordinated at a 'national level' which will 'allow greater mobilisation of resources' as meteorologists predicted 'significant winds in the coming hours'.

However, firefighters criticised the lack of coordination.

Fernando Curto, the president of the National Association of Professional Firefighters told Radio Renasceneca: 'I spoke to one of my colleagues who is in the Algarve to fight the fires and he told me that it was totally disorganised. In certain aspects, nobody understands each other.'

Responding to firefighters' calls to meet the interior minister, Cabrito said: 'We do not take stock in the heat of battle. Our priority now is to fight this fire.'

Around 250 people were evacuated on Monday evening from villages around Monchique, a mountain town of 6,000 inhabitants in the mountain range of the same name, around 160 kilometres (100 miles) south of Lisbon.

Sweltering temperatures kindled the blazes that have whipped across the region. The mercury peaked above 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit) in some areas of Portugal at the weekend

Around 250 people were evacuated on Monday evening from villages around Monchique, a mountain town of 6,000 inhabitants that is around 160 kilometres (100 miles) south of Lisbon

On Sunday night, a group of mainly English guests were evacuated from a five-star resort high in the hills to other hotels in the area.

Fire crews used aeroplanes and helicopters as well as several hundred vehicles Tuesday in a fresh attempt to contain the blazes, which have raged for days stoked by the strong winds.

The wildfires, which have consumed some 15,000 hectares (76,000 acres) of forest, crept closer to the enclave overnight, leaving behind a blackened path of charred houses and incinerated cars.

'There are several main homes affected. But for the moment we are not yet able to make an assessment,' said Monchique mayor Rui Andre, according to local media.

By Tuesday afternoon the flames were about 500 metres (550 yards) from a fire station and a 17th-century convent. The blaze has also damaged about 40 kilometres (25 miles) of power lines.

Greece to demolish 3,200 illegal buildings after killer fires Greece will demolish thousands of illegal buildings in response to the death of dozens of people who were unable to escape a maze of poorly planned streets in the country's worst wildfire disaster. Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, whose government has been accused of a slow response, said Greece must no longer allow illegal construction that has been common for decades in a country dogged by bureaucracy and corruption. The demolition of 3,200 buildings will start immediately in the Attica region, which includes the capital Athens, he said. "The chaos of unruly construction, which threatens human lives, can no longer be tolerated," Tsipras said in a speech in the town of Lavrio, down the coast from Mati where at least 91 people died in the blaze on July 23. Unlicensed constructions are a common feature of the Greek landscape where they even have a name: "afthereta", or "arbitrary" buildings. Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras speaks with a firefighter officer as he visits the village of Mati where at least 91 people died in the blaze on July 23 Built with apparent impunity, many are rubber stamped later under general amnesties, announced by successive governments in what critics say is a crude but effective way to wield power and gain votes. Authorities say there were dozens of such buildings in Mati, where people were trapped, with routes to the coast walled off -- illegal under Greek law. Tsipras said anyone in the process of building unlicensed constructions would be compelled to demolish them. Dozens of people were unable to escape a maze of poorly planned streets in the country's worst wildfire disaster The disaster has had political repercussions. The head of the civil protection department resigned on Monday, a day after the government replaced the chiefs of the police and the fire brigade. The civil protection minister resigned on Friday after saying he believed there had been few flaws with the way emergency services tackled the blaze, fuelled by winds blowing at 120 km (70 miles) an hour. Tsipras's administration has rejected opposition claims that authorities were napping on the job, saying unlicensed building had thrived under previous governments. "I would have expected at least the tiniest bit of self-criticism from those who, along with their families, ran the country for more than four decades - not two, three or five years," said Tsipras, a leftist politician elected in 2015. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, head of the main opposition New Democracy Party, is son of Constantine Mitsotakis, a former prime minister. Fofi Gennimata, head of the small Socialist party which was also dominant for years, is the daughter of a key figure in that party. Advertisement

A 76-year-old woman has been sent to hospital in Lisbon for treatment due to the fires, which took hold last week around Monchique at the highest point of the Algarve tourist region.

Authorities had hoped to contain the fires on Monday, but the country's civil protection service said that strong winds had revived the flames, 'which immediately took on large proportions'.

The difficulty in bringing the fires under control has raised eyebrows after the Portuguese authorities brought in various measures in a bid to avoid a repetition of fires that killed at least 114 people last year.

Authorities had hoped to contain the fire on Monday but the country's civil protection service said that strong winds had revived the flames. Pictured a forest fire rages in the Rasmalho area in southern Portugal

By Tuesday afternoon the flames were about 500 metres (550 yards) from a fire station and a 17th-century convent

Despite significant resources, the fire continues to 'destroy homes' and threaten an 'urban perimeter,' the National Association of Professional Firefighters and the Union of Professional Firefighters said in a joint statement.

In the Valencia region of neighbouring Spain some 2,500 people were driven from their homes overnight to escape flames that have already swept across around 1,000 hectares, as fire crews struggled to bring the fires under control.
A cop who previously shot a suspect in the leg has been caught on body camera revealing similar plans for a female wielding a screwdriver, before shooting her twice in the legs.

Bodycam video released on Monday shows Corporal Jeremy Dunn shooting Ivonne Casimiro on June 28, a shooting that prosecutors now say was unjustified.

'It cannot be objectively stated that the officers or anyone else were in danger of death or serious bodily injury,' said Iron County Attorney Scott Garrett in a letter to Enoch Police, the Salt Lake Tribune reported.

It was not the first time Dunn had shot a suspect in the legs. In 2012, he shot and wounded George Osborn Lafayette Fletcher, who was reported to be fighting with his mother while he was holding a knife. That shooting was ruled justified.

An officer responding to reports of people breaking into cars found Ivonne Casimiro (left) and Jose Martin Flores (right) in the parking lot

Dunn (left) previously shot George Osborn Lafayette Fletcher (right) in the leg

The common thread was Parowan Police Sgt. Mike Berg, who was present at both of the shootings.

The June shooting unfolded when Berg responded to a report of people breaking into cars and found Casimiro and a male suspect.

Casimiro swiped at Berg twice with a screwdriver and was saying things that were 'not making a lot of sense', Garrett wrote.

Berg held her at gunpoint but had holstered his weapon by the time Dunn arrived as backup, Garrett found.

Dunn drew his weapon as he approached Casimiro and the male suspect and ordered her to put the screwdriver down, video shows.

Casimiro responded by stepping toward Dunn and telling him to 'go ahead and blow'.

'I can take her out like last time. You want me to take her out like last time?' Dunn told Berg.

Dunn's weapon is seen drawn as Casimiro paces in the parking lot with the screwdriver

Casimiro is seen holding the screwdriver and a bag as the officer order her to drop it

'Taser,' Berg responded. Dunn took out his taser and fired it at Casimiro, but it had no effect.

'Did it work, did it work?' the suspect taunted the police officers. Berg continues to order Casimiro to drop the screwdriver,

Sighing as if with frustration, Dunn pulls out his gun and fires three times, striking Casimiro in the leg.

From the time he arrived to the time he fired his gun was less than three minutes.

Firing at a person's extremities goes against police guidelines, which typically instruct officers to aim at a person's 'center mass.'

After tasering Casimiro to no effect, Dunn shoots her in the leg and she drops to the pavement

Casimiro is seen with taser probe wires and a tourniquet on her leg after being shot

Casimiro was treated for her injury and survived.

The DA found that Casimiro was not a threat, writing in his letter: 'Casimiro was not fleeing, had not made any verbal threats towards officers and there was sufficient distance between Casimiro and any bystander to remove any imminent threat of harm.'

'It appears that the situation was manageable at the time Corporal Dunn arrived and it would have seemed reasonable for officers to continue de-escalation tactics until the situation could be more fully contained. Corporal Dunn was only on scene for three minutes before firing shots,' he continued.

Despite the finding of unjustified shooting, Dunn is unlikely to be charged because 'the State would not be able to prove the requisite criminal intent,' Garrett wrote.
Texas police have released a sketch of the man wanted for a violent sexual attack on two teenagers in a park.

Authorities said that the man forced the teens - a 16-year-old girl and a teen boy - to have sex in front of him and then raped the girl.

The attack is said to have begun at about 2am on June 30 at Northline Park in Houston, Texas. The teens were eating food in a car when the man allegedly approached them with a gun, ABC 13 reported.

Police in Houston, Texas, released this sketch of a man wanted for an alleged violent sexual attack on two teens in June. The man allegedly forced the teens to have sex and raped the girl

Police said the man then forced the teens into the backseat of the car and drove them several neighborhoods away, to White Oak.

Once there the man forced the teens to exit the car and get into the nearby brush, where he made them have sex in front of him as he watched. The man then allegedly raped the teen girl.

Then, both teens, apparently fearing that the man would kill them, fought back and managed to wrest the gun away from him.

The teen girl was taken to the hospital where she received treatment.

Authorities released the sketch of the suspect Monday. He was described as being a Hispanic man with brown eyes and blonde hair. He is said to be in his mid-20s and between 5'6" and 5'10" tall, weighing between 160 to 180 pounds.

Authorities are asking the public to help identify the man. There is a possible $5,000 reward for information about him. Anyone with tips about his identity are asked to call (713) 222-TIPS.
A one-eyed killer who stabbed an innocent club-goer to death with a broken champagne flute has been jailed for life for the 'mindless' murder today.

Jack Costello, 44, grabbed Jason Taylor after the victim got caught up in a minor exchange of words with another man for politely allowing a woman to get served before him.

Costello initially put his left arm around 23-year old Mr Taylor's neck as if to speak to him but then bit down on the victim's ear before pulling him towards the floor.

Jack Costello (left), 44, grabbed 23-year-old Jason Taylor (right) and stabbed him in the neck with a broken champagne flute at a cocktail bar in January

Then as onlookers tried to pull him away he adjusted the grip he had on a glass flute and thrust it into Mr Taylor's neck.

The victim who was not causing any trouble backed away but collapsed bleeding heavily from a neck wound.

Jason Taylor had been enjoying a night out with his girlfriend Amber Greenwood (pictured together)

He died in hospital nine hours later with tests showing he suffered a fatal injury to his jugular vein.

At Preston Crown Court, Costello, a father-of-four who lost his right eye in 1996 in unknown circumstances, showed no emotion as he was found guilty of murder after a five day trial.

He was ordered to serve a minimum of 19 years in jail.

He had a string of convictions for violence having been jailed for seven years for drug dealing in 2000.

In 2008 he was given six years for a 100,000 arson attack after he poured petrol through the window of a family house and set it on fire when he lost his temper over a children's Playstation game going missing.

Judge Mark Brown told Costello: 'This was undoubtedly mindless and unprovoked violence of the worst kind on a relatively young wholly innocent man who was doing no harm to anybody.

'I have no doubt his family have lost a decent completely dedicated person and family man of whom they can be truly very proud.

'The aggravating features of this case are that this took place in a busy bar in front of a lot of people, the use of a weapon and you were affected by drink voluntarily.

'This was a wholly unprovoked attack on Jay Jay who was younger and much smaller in stature. The intention was really serious harm.'

Mr Taylor's death last January 27 occurred just two months after Costello was given a suspended sentence for assault and driving whilst banned.

Costello initially put his left arm around Mr Taylor's neck as if to speak to him but then bit down on the victim's ear before pulling him towards the floor. He then thrust a glass flute into Mr Taylor's neck

The victim - known as JayJay - and who was due to start a new job at Iceland supermarket, had been playing ten-pin bowling with his friends before going to the Esco-Bar in Darwen, Lancs, to meet his girlfriend.

Costello had been at a party at a local Conservative club to celebrate his son Dylan's 21st birthday before going to to Eso-bar with Kayle Smith, 30 - nephew of Costello's ex-partner Sharon Kitchin.

Trouble began after Mr Taylor, who was described by his family as a 'typical boy next door', allowed a girl at the club Zoe Broadhurst in front of him to be served.

Mr Jacob Dyer prosecuting said: 'The bar was busy and JayJay was waiting to be served and whilst doing so he spoke to Zoe as they used to be friends of friends on Facebook.

'At the other side of the bar Kayle Smith appeared behind him and leaned over Jay Jay and said to her: ''Aren't you too good to be talking to him?''

'Jay Jay looked uncomfortable and Zoe asked what did he mean. She then took her drinks and thanked Jay Jay for letting her in to be served at the bar.

'Jay Jay and Kayle exchanged words and then Kayle head butted Jay Jay.

'Jay Jay did not appear to be overly concerned by that and other than a smile at him, Jay-Jay did not react and appeared to be calm.'

'Sharon Kitchin put her hand on Kayle's shoulder to separate them and asked him what was wrong but he said something like 'he's being a dick'.

'He then spoke to Jack Costello who at the time had hold of a champagne flute in his left hand.

The victim - known as Jay Jay - had been playing ten-pin bowling with his friends before going to the Esco-Bar in Darwen, Lancs to meet his girlfriend

'He had ordered champagne to celebrate his sons 21st birthday and was provided with glass champagne flutes.

'After speaking with Kayle, he transferred the flute to his right hand, strode past him and put his left arm around Jay Jay's neck to draw him in as if to speak to him.

'He then opened his mouth and clamped down Jay Jay's right ear and pulled him down towards the floor with his teeth clamped on his ear for six seconds.

'Other tried to pull him away and Sharon Kitchin appears to slap the defendant to the face but he then adjusted the grip of the glass to prepare to attack.

'He had gripped Jay Jay's jacket near to the shoulder to position himself then thrust the glass into the left side of his neck, causing the glass to shatter and causing a deep cut which immediately started to bleed.

'As Jay Jay is backing away, the defendant was restrained but started throwing the remains of the glass at Jay Jay and it appears to be the stem of the glass which has shattered.

'He then lunged at him again, throwing punches and is then taken to the back door by the doorman.

Costello, from Rishton, Lancashire, denied murder but later admitted manslaughter. He was ordered to serve a minimum of 19 years in jail

'This was an unprovoked attack by the defendant on Jay Jay. Before he attacked there was no trouble.

'He changed the flute into his right hand and pulled down on Jay Jay, adjusting his grip on the glass before thrusting it into his neck. He was shouting at him and continued his attack.

'He then threw the remnants of the glass at Jay Jay and lunged at him again. He intended really serious harm.'

The court heard Mr Taylor left the club after the attack but collapsed leaving trail of blood along the street.

He was taken to Royal Preston Hospital where he died at 11am in intensive care.

Costello, from Rishton, handed himself in to a police station at 3.30pm on January 29 accompanied by his solicitor.

He made no comment in the interview and denied murder but later admitted manslaughter claiming the glass was thrown at Mr Taylor.

Smith admitted assault and will be sentenced on Thursday.

After the case Mr Taylor's family said in a statement: 'Jay Jay was the ''boy next door'' kind of lad and since that night he was cruelly taken from us, our lives have never been the same and even after all the on-going pain, on top of this, we had to relive every moment through the unnecessary trial.

Costello, a father-of four, was found guilty of murder at Preston Crown Court after a five day trial. Pictured: Esco-Bar in Darwen, Lancashire

'The two men who attacked Jay Jay still have lives - Jay Jay doesn't.

'There will always be a huge hole in our family and all because of two men who think they can behave the way they did that night and get away with it.'

Det Chief Insp Richard McCutcheon of Lancashire Police said: 'Jack Costello's actions were savage and brutal.

'Following Kayle Smith's earlier attack, Costello sought out Jay Jay and launched an unprovoked and vicious assault on him before using the champagne flute as a weapon to deliver the fatal blow.

'This was a cowardly, unprovoked attack which cost the life of a young man.'
Police are hunting for a group of men seen in disturbing surveillance video viciously attacking a 26-year-old man with large sticks and a sword early Sunday morning in Queens.

Authorities said the four suspects, between the ages of 18 and 24, approached the victim just before 7am in the Richmond Hill section and threatened to kill him with a gun.

The victim tried to run away, but tripped and fell. That's when the suspects, armed with sticks and a sword, pounced on the man and started beating him.

Four men were seen on video attacking a 26-year-old with large sticks and a sword in Queens on Sunday

Police said the suspects approached the victim and threatened him with a gun. The victim tried to run, but fell and was pounded on by his attackers

Video from the horrific attack shows the victim on the ground as the four thugs savagely swing their weapons at him. They then fled from the scene.

One witness told ABC7 that saw he saw the teens standing behind his car, but didn't know what was going on at first.

'I see one guy laying down and his head is bleeding,' he said.

The victim was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries, but is said to be in stable condition.

Authorities described the suspects as being approximately 18 to 24 years old and around 5'6 to 6 feet tall. The first suspect is said to be Asian with a dark complexion, black hair and facial hair. He was wearing a red shirt and green sweatpants at the time of the attack.

The second suspect is also described as Asian with a dark complexion, facial hair and black hair pulled into a ponytail. He was wearing a green t-short, red shorts and black shoes.

Authorities are searching for the four suspects and are seeking the public's help in identifying him

The attack comes more than a month since 15-year-old Lesandro 'Junior' Guzman-Feliz was killed by gang members in the Bronx

The third one is described as Asian with a dark complexion and thin build. He was last seen wearing a dark colored shirt, blue and white shorts and sandals.

The fourth suspect had his black hair pulled into a bun and was last seen wearing a black shirt, green shorts and black sandals. Police described him as Asian or Pacific Islander with a dark complexion.

The attack comes more than a month since 15-year-old Lesandro 'Junior' Guzman-Feliz was hacked to death in a case of mistaken identity by members of the Dominican gang Trinitario outside a bodega in the Bronx.

Twelve men were arrested and charged with murder in connection to the teen's brutal murder.

Anyone with information in regards to the Queen's incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime stoppers website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.
Etienne K Kabongo who has been charged with the rape and abuse of a school girl

A Maryland school bus driver has been charged with the rape and sexual assault of a 12-year-old girl.

Etienne K Kabongo, of Mineral Springs Drive, in Gaithersburg, was arrested on August 5 following the alleged incident on July 31.

The 62-year-old allegedly assaulted the girl when a school bus attendant left the vehicle to help drop off a student in the Yates Road area of Silver Spring at around 12.30pm.

Montgomery County Police Special Victims Investigations Detectives believe there could be other victims.

Kabongo, known as Mr Steve to some students, has worked as a bus operator since 2006 - mainly serving students with special educational needs across Montgomery County.

Jack Smith, the superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools, said Kabongo has been placed on leave.

The home of 62-year-old of Gaithersburg, Montgomery County, who has been placed on leave

He said: 'Words cannot convey my anger, disgust and disappointment in the alleged behavior of Mr Kabongo.

'Abusing a position of trust and authority to take advantage of the most vulnerable among us is despicable.

'This behavior is a violation of our values and policies, as well as the law, and it will not be tolerated.

'MCPS staff immediately contacted MCPD when we were made aware of these allegations.

'We are fully cooperating with MCPD, who is leading this investigation.

'He was immediately placed on leave when we were made aware of the allegations. Mr Kabongo will not be returning to our buses or schools.

'Our thoughts are with the students and families impacted by this. MCPS has coordinated with Tree House Child Advocacy Center to ensure counseling support and resources are available.'

He added the school system is working to outfit all school buses with cameras.

A Montgomery County Schools bus, similar to those driven by Kabongo

Detectives said the incident was captured on video by a camera on the school bus.

'Victim A began to scream,' detectives wrote in court papers, 'and appears to cry while she moved backwards away from Etienne K. Kabongo.'

According to The Washington Post Montgomery County Assistant States Attorney Elizabeth Haynos said Kabongo was a flight risk.

It was reported Kabongo was denied bond as a court was told he had plane tickets to fly to Ethiopia on Tuesday.

Anyone who is concerned that a child has been victimized by Kabongo is asked to call detectives at 240-773-5400.
A Democratic senator said Monday that decisions by Apple, Facebook, Spotify and YouTube to ban broadcasts and podcasts from conspiracy theorist Alex Jones are merely a good start.

Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy's broadsides came amid revelation of a draft policy proposal from Virginia Democratic Sen. Mark Warner that would set the social media world on its ear by holding websites like Facebook and Twitter legally responsible for libel committed by their users.

Murphy suggested Monday on Twitter that silencing Jones' 'Infowars' program, typically identified with the political far-right, should mark the beginning of an industry-wide crackdown on ideas that governments themselves are constitutionally prohibited from squelching

'I know Facebook and Apple and YouTube have gotten so big they sometimes seem like the government. But they arent,' Murphy tweeted. 'They are private companies that shouldnt knowingly spread lies and hate. They took a good first step today by removing Infowars.'

Minutes later, he upped the ante.

Conspiracy theory broadcaster Alex Jones saw his videos and podcasts yanked from major online platforms in recent days, and some Democrats want to see more of the same

Connecticut Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy called exiling Jones and his 'Infowars' program 'a good first step'

'Infowars is the tip of a giant iceberg of hate and lies that uses sites like Facebook and YouTube to tear our nation apart. These companies must do more than take down one website. The survival of our democracy depends on it,' he claimed.

That post was promptly 'ratioed'  Twitter-speak for tweets that attract fewer fans than detractors. Roughly four times as many people posted responses to the message than approvingly retweeted it to their followers.

Jones and his fans see the banishments as a dramatic overreach by online platforms that have become the equivalent of public utilities.

He told The Washington Post that the actions against him were 'a counter-strike against the global awakening' led, in part, by traditional media outlets.

'We've seen a giant yellow journalism campaign with thousands and thousands of articles for weeks, for months misrepresenting what Ive said and done to set the precedent to de-platform me before Big Tech and the Democratic Party as well as some Republican establishment types move against the First Amendment in this country as we know it,' Jones continued.

'You're on the wrong side of history mainstream media. You sold the country out, and now you're going to pay for it.'

Murphy (right) argued that Jones, seen as a right-winger, is dangerous to the nation; Virginia Democratic Sen. Mark Warner (left) crafted a proposal to force social media companies' hands by making them legally liable for what their users say publicly

Some on Capitol Hill reacted with a combination of snark and awe to the digital exile of a man who believes the 2012 Sandy Hook school shooting was a hoax and the 9-11 terror attack was a government 'inside job.'

'See?' one Republican House aide said drily on Tuesday. 'It's not paranoia if they actually are out to get you.'

Warner's proposals, while in rough form, include forcing social media companies to determine and publish the geographic location of users when they post information.

He also wants the platforms to confirm the real identities of all their account holders and ban 'inauthentic' ones.

But the biggest arrow in his quiver is a suggestion that social media companies should lose their legal exemption from 'defamation, false light, [and] public disclosure of private facts' lawsuits filed against individual users who are targeted by doctored audio or video.

'Currently the onus is on victims to exhaustively search for, and report, this content to platforms  who frequently take months to respond and who are under no obligation thereafter to proactively prevent the same content from being re-uploaded in the future,' Warner's aides write.

One 'Infowars' editor claimed the show's banning is a coordinated move 'to help Democrats' by marginalizing their opponents on websites that have become the equivalent of public utilities

A GOP Senate aide on Tuesday called Warner's proposals 'a new level of authoritarian bonkers,' and joked that 'killing off anonymous Facebook and Twitter accounts and forcing people to say who they are would force Democrats to pick one of their two faces and go with it.'

The Warner policy draft was first published by the Axios news website.

Facebook said it removed Jones' pages 'for glorifying violence, which violates our graphic violence policy, and using dehumanizing language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies.'

Infowars editor Paul Joseph Watson said in a tweet that the muffling Jones' voice was 'a co-ordinated move ahead of the mid-terms to help Democrats. This is political censorship. This is culture war.'

Apple said after it deleted most of the Infowars podcasts that it 'does not tolerate hate speech.'

'We believe in representing a wide range of views, so long as people are respectful to those with differing opinions.'
This is the heartwarming moment the crowd at TRSNMT festival lift up a fan in his wheelchair so he can get the best view of the Arctic Monkeys show.

The clip shows festival-goers in Glasgow cheering with delight as they lifted the fan up high so he could watch the set.

The boy looked delighted and sings the words along to the famous Arctic Monkeys song From Ritz To Rubble.

The fan couldn't hold back his smile as he was lifted into the air to watch the Arctic Monkeys set at TRNSMT festival

He can be seen fist pumping the air and singing along to the words as the crowd cheered for him

The smiling fan can be seen fist pumping the air while the people holding him danced up and down with the wheelchair.

The video ends with the boy being lowered to the ground with more cheers as his friends patted him on the back as he looked lost for words.

The clip showed a beautiful sunset as Arctic Monkeys headline the Sunday night of TRNSMT in their only UK festival gig of the year.

The video was uploaded by Ben Galligan, from Edinburgh, and has attracted more than 50,000 views.

The video was uploaded to Twitter and the amazing moment has attracted more than 50,000 views

The video ends with the fan being lowered to the ground with yet more cheers and pats on the back

Mr Galligan told the Scottish Sun: 'We were standing in a big group singing away, he rolled up behind us and people noticed he was singing.

'People offered to lift him and he said yeah so they grabbed him and up he went.

'He was shaking hands with people afterwards thankful.'
Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross is alleged to have siphoned off $120 million from business partners over years in Wall Street, taking smaller amounts at a time and settling a lawsuit which accused him of graft, it emerged Tuesday.

He was accused by one former colleague of being a 'pathological liar' and by another of putting Sweet'N Low packets in his pockets at a restaurant to savehim buying his own.

The allegations - which led to lawsuits, reimbursements, and an SEC fine - were outlined in a Forbes magazine article that notes if even half of them are true, Ross could rank among the biggest grifters in American history.

The Department of Commerce slammed the story, calling it based on 'false rumors' and 'unverifiable claims.'

'The anonymously sourced Forbes story is based on false rumors, innuendo, and unverifiable claims,' the department said in a statement to the DailyMail.com.

'The fact remains that no regulator has made any of these accusations against the Secretary.

'This rehash of old stories is clearly the result of a personal vendetta. The baseless claims made in this story were well publicized long ago and are not news.'

President Donald Trump named Wilbur Ross his Commerce secretary

Ross is alleged to have siphoned off up to $120 million on his investors and business partners

Ross told the magazine in a statement: 'The SEC has never initiated any enforcement action against me' but Forbes notes he failed to mention the $2.3 million fine the Securities and Exchange Commission levied against his firm in 2016.

And one of Ross' former colleagues called him 'a pathological liar.'

The Forbes piece also outlines smaller allegations against the Commerce secretary.

Ross, who is estimated by Forbes to be worth $700 million, was said to have taken handfuls of Sweet'N Low packets from a restaurant so he didn't have to buy his own.

Other allegations say workers at his Hamptons home used to call his office to complain because they had not been paid. Others say Ross once pledged $1 million to a charity that he never paid.

A Commerce Department official told the magazine the stories were 'petty nonsense' and that Ross does not put sweetener in his coffee.

Forbes magazine has, in the past, reported on Ross' net worth and what it called his 'phantom' $2 billion that he claimed to be worth.

President Donald Trump, who has had a rocky relationship with his Commerce secretary, called Ross a 'legendary Wall Street genius' when he named him to his Cabinet.

But the two men have had their ups and downs since then.

Trump has referred to Ross, who helped bail him out in his Atlantic City property in the 1980s, everything from a 'killer' to 'past his prime.'

Ross has both been benched when it comes to trade deals and then sent to places like Beijing to try to negotiate them.

Forbes notes Trump's offer to join his Cabinet gave Ross the perfect exit from his investment business.

The commerce department called the allegations against Wilbur Ross 'false rumors'

Ross' private equity funds were underperforming - with one on track to lose 26 percent of its value - and accusations were coming in fast.

The SEC fined Ross two months before the 2016 election and announced he was refunding $11.9 million his fund allegedly skimmed from its investors.

Ross' firm, WL Ross & Co., derived much of its revenue from management fees charged to its investors. With funds as large as $4.1 billion, management fees of 1.5 percent could bring in more than $60 million a year.

But his firm was alleged to have skimmed investors on fees and rebates that it did not deliver.

Ross 'was like a kid in a candy store,' said one of his former employees. 'He pilfered it.'

After he joined the Cabinet, Ross, in November 2017, signed a document that he had divested of all his assets as he promised he would.

However, he still owned somewhere between $10 million and $50 million worth of stock in WL Ross' parent company, Invesco.

He sold his shares a month later, banking at least $1.2 million more than he would have if he sold in May 2017, when he initially promised to divest.

Ross could be in legal jeopardy over the issue as it's a crime to lie to federal officials.

But representatives for Ross say he didn't lie but actually failed to realize he owned the shares.

Several lawmakers have asked the Commerce Department inspector general and the SEC to examine potential conflicts of interest that Ross may have.
The Scottish First Minister says the UK faces falling of a 'cliff edge' in a 'Blind Brexit' and accused Theresa May's government of a lack of clarity.

Nicola Sturgeon's demand came as the Prime Minister claimed leaving the European Union will bring a brighter future for as she revealed billions in funding for Scotland.

Mrs May will pump a 1.2billion city deal into Edinburgh and the south-east, with Holyrood and Westminster committing 300million each.

The two leaders are at loggerheads over Brexit and have also clashed in the past over Scottish independence.

Theresa May told the Scottish National Party leader that the UK could enjoy a brighter future post-Brexit

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon (right) called on the Prime Minister (left) to reveal her Brexit Plan B as Theresa May said the exit could benefit Scotland

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson welcomed confirmation that two of six new UK science centres will be north of the border, with Dundee and Glasgow benefiting from some of the Government's 13million investment.

But the Scottish National Party leader called on the Prime Minister to reveal her 'Plan B' on Brexit, warning against a 'blind Brexit' and a 'no deal' on her party's website.

'She must secure a withdrawal agreement that provides for an orderly transition,' she said. 'Without that, the UK faces the catastrophic prospect of crashing out of the EU without a deal.

'But she must also secure agreement on a detailed statement on the future relationship between the UK and the EU  because without that we will simply be moving from the prospect of a no deal Brexit to the damage of what some of her own colleagues apparently now refer to as a blind Brexit.

'A no deal Brexit would be utterly unacceptable and deeply damaging, but by talking it up as a negotiating tactic there is a very real danger it becomes a reality.'

She called on the Prime Minister to keep her pledge on a detailed statement about the future relationship with the EU alongside the withdrawal agreement, so parliament and voters know where the UK is headed.

The Scottish First Minister formally signed off on the Edinburgh and south-east Scotland city deal today.

It aims to support cutting-edge research at the capital's three universities, improve housing and transport links and help to build a new concert hall.

Mrs May is visiting Edinburgh as the capital's annual festival season gets under way, with Edinburgh International Festival director Fergus Linehan reportedly preparing for the impact a 'catastrophic' Brexit could have on events.

A heavily pregnant Ruth Davidson welcomed news of the funding boost for Scotland, but the SNP leader questioned the Conservatives' Brexit plan

She spoke about the work ministers are doing to 'create more good jobs and spread economic prosperity across the country' as Britain prepares to leave European Union.

Speaking ahead of the visit, the Prime Minister said: 'I am pleased to be in Edinburgh today for the city's annual celebration of the arts and culture.

'From the Fringe, to the International Festival, festivals dedicated to science, books and storytelling, the city is truly a cultural inspiration for the rest of the UK and the world.

'Alongside the Scottish Government and local partners, I will be confirming 300 million, as part of a wider 1 billion investment by the UK Government through city deals in Scotland, to create jobs and open up new economic opportunities throughout the nation.

'These city deals build on existing strengths to open up new possibilities for the future in Scotland and the whole of the UK as part of our modern industrial strategy.'

She added: 'Today I have also announced a further 13 million for investment in six science centres in the UK, including Dundee and Glasgow, to drive innovation in science and technology.

'As we leave the EU, the UK Government is working in partnership with business, academia and the devolved administrations to create more good jobs and spread economic prosperity across the country.

'By making the most of our country's assets and the talents of all of our people, we can build a brighter future for the whole UK.'

City of Edinburgh Council leader Adam McVey said: 'The agreement of this ambitious deal heralds the beginning of a transformative and inclusive programme which will help share our success right across the region.

'This investment will allow us to unlock the region's potential to become a global powerhouse in data-driven innovation through our exceptional research and development activities, whilst the commitment to a skills programme will enhance job prospects for everyone and allow us to capitalise on the opportunities technology and innovation creates.

'We will also greatly enhance the region's infrastructure through significant funding for transport projects and housing development to build a vibrant region for people and businesses to thrive in.'

The funds will support economic growth across the region through housing, innovation, transport, skills and culture.

Investment from the Scottish Government will contribute towards 41,000 new homes, 21,000 jobs and improve the skills of an estimated 14,700 people.

Ms Sturgeon said: 'Edinburgh and the south-east of Scotland is an area of huge importance to the Scottish economy.

'The region contains over a quarter of Scotland's population and contributes 33 billion to the Scottish and UK economies.

'The Scottish Government's 300 million investment in the City Region Deal will contribute towards 41,000 new homes, 21,000 jobs and improve the skills of an estimated 14,700 people across the region.

'Our investments will ensure businesses and communities from across the region benefit from the opportunities created by this the city region deal.

'Taken together, these projects will help the region continue to thrive and grow, fulfilling our ambitions for the region to be one of the fairest and most inclusive areas.'
The new mayor of Amsterdam announced she will allow cleaners to interrupt red light district revelry days after the popular tourist area was branded a 'lawless jungle'.

Femke Halsema announced measures that will allow teams to close streets in order to clean up vomit in the Netherlands city.

Officials will also enforce 'mop pauses' in busy streets as Halsema seeks to increase policing by appealing to justice minister Ferdinand Grapperhaus.

Amsterdam becomes a 'lawless jungle' after dark according to the city's official ombudsman

Tourists face exclusion from certain areas as crews clean up waste and vomit, Dutch News reports.

Mobile payment machines will be issued to street wardens tasked with fining people for littering and urinating in public.

Arre Zuurmond, left, said there were 900 offences committed between 2am and 4am on one night observed by cameras leading the new mayor, right, to introduce the measures

Crowd control measures will be combined with close monitoring of visitor numbers in the hotspot.

Pleasure boats face greater scrutiny as wardens fine those that exceed sailing speed limits or flout other rules.

Days after describing the red light district as a 'lawless jungle', Ombudsman Arre Zuurmond told Dutch newspaper Parool that Halsema's measures mark a first step.

This is important because the council is showing it means business immediately, he said.

About 18 million tourists visit each year - more than the population of the Netherlands - and authorities have been introducing strict penalties for 'public disturbances'.

Mr Zuurmond told Dutch paper Trouw problems have increased including illegal car and bike racing and open drug trading.

He said: 'The city centre becomes an urban jungle at night. Criminal money flourishes, there is no authority and the police can no longer handle the situation.'

One night we counted 900 offences, mainly between the hours of 2am and 4am. The atmosphere is grim, and there is an air of lawlessness.

'Scooters race through the pedestrian areas,' he said. 'There is a lot of shouting. Drugs are being bought. There is stealing. People pee and even poop on the streets.

'There is violence but no action. You can even pee on the van of a mobile (police) unit and the driver won't say anything.'
Spain has opened its first refugee camp in the Algeciras area to house migrants who have made the perilous journey across the Mediterranean sea.

The temporary site, set up on a field in Crinavis near San Roque in the Cadiz Province, is set to house thousands of migrants arriving from Morocco at three ports in the province.

The facility, which saw the first 442 people arrive on Saturday, can house a maximum of 600 people for 72 hours.

Spain has opened its first refugee camp in the Algeciras area and saw the first 442 people arrive on Saturday

The facility will take in 400 people every 24 hours and shelter those rescued and taken to Tarifa, Barbate and Algeciras

The giant camp filled with orange tents, beds, toilets and showers will take in 400 people every 24 hours and shelter those rescued and taken to Tarifa, Barbate and Algeciras.

Its opening follows a pledge made by European Union member states at June's Paris summit to support the country's migration crisis.

During his Madrid visit last Friday Dimitri Avramopoulos, the EU Commissioner for Migration, said: 'Spain has the full support of the European Commission in dealing with the increased arrivals along the western Mediterranean Sea route.'

The temporary site is set up on a field in Crinavis near San Roque in Cadiz Province

However European Union have officials warned the handling of those seeking asylum could lead to a rise in anti-immigration political populism.

They fear a return of populist parties, including the far right La Liga in Italy being elected.

New leader of the Spain's conservative Partido Popular(PP) Pablo Casado recently claimed Spain could not accommodate the 'millions' of migrants arriving to the country.

However European Union fear the handling of those seeking asylum could lead to a rise in anti-immigration political populism

New leader of Spain's conservative Partido Popular(PP) party Pablo Casado recently claimed Spain could not accommodate the 'millions' of migrants arriving to the country

Far right political party Vox has also organised a meeting in Algeciras this Wednesday to address what they call a migrant 'invasion'.

However, Sergio Carrera, of the Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS) think tank, said the Spanish government were entitled to deal with the issue.

He told Euro Weekly: 'The response of the Spanish government has been correct, putting the figures in perspective and showing that we are not facing a crisis.'

According to statistics from the United Nations more than 23,000 migrants, many of whom are refugees fleeing war and poverty in sub Saharan Africa, have arrived in Spain so far this year.
A police officer was charged with voluntary manslaughter in the shooting death of a man reported to have been hanging on or jumping on moving cars near a Pennsylvania amusement park, a prosecutor announced Tuesday.

Officer Jonathan Roselle of the South Whitehall Township police department had an 'unreasonable' belief that his safety was endangered when he shot Joseph Santos on July 28, said Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin.

Roselle, 33, of Parryville, was directing traffic near Dorney Park when a 'frantic' woman stopped and said someone had tried to enter her vehicle, and when the officer arrived Santos climbed on the hood of his vehicle and pounded on his windshield and side windows.

He then walked away but wheeled around and approached, ignoring the officer's commands to stop and get down on the ground, and the officer fired five times.

Officer Jonathan Roselle had an 'unreasonable' belief that his safety was endangered when he shot Joseph Santos on July 28

Martin said Santos, 44, of Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey had been engaging in 'somewhat bizarre' behavior and at the time of the shooting was walking toward the officer.

But he said Santos wasn't running or rushing toward him, had no visible weapon and didn't present any threatening posture, and there was no evidence that he had attempted any forceful felony.

Martin said the officer, who he called 'relatively inexperienced,' also had a flexible baton, stun gun and pepper spray, and made several remarks following the shooting indicating that he believed he had made a mistake.

Martin said he had approved a voluntary manslaughter charge rather than a third-degree murder charge because no malice was involved.

To those who believed police brutality or racism was involved, he said the investigation 'has disclosed no facts which would support those contentions.'

'In my opinion, this was the act of a relatively inexperienced officer who held a subjective fear for his own safety but made a decision which objectively was unreasonable in light of the facts as they existed and appeared at the time he discharged his weapon and killed Mr. Santos.'

Santos climbed on the hood of Roselle's vehicle and pounded on his windshield and side windows

He then walked away but wheeled around and approached, ignoring the officer's commands to stop and get down on the ground, and the officer fired five time

Roselle, an Army veteran who served in Afghanistan and is currently a major in the National Guard, graduated from the academy in December 2017 and had 13 weeks of field training but had been on patrol by himself for less than five months, Martin said.

The Allentown chapter of the NAACP had called for the officer, who is on paid leave, to be fired and for Martin to step aside, citing the district attorney's earlier remark that the officer 'had to discharge his weapon.'

Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin says that the officer had a flexible baton, stun gun and pepper spray that he could have used, calling Roselle 'relatively inexperienced'

Martin called that a 'very poor choice of phasing' but said it didn't indicate bias, and he had clearly reached a different conclusion with more facts including audio and video recordings.

The district attorney said Santos said 'Don't do it' as he neared the officer, and there were reports that he had been asking for help in earlier encounters with others, but that any such remarks couldn't be confirmed because dash cam and body cam audio wasn't audible.

Defense attorneys said in a statement that 'while the loss of a life is always unfortunate, it is not always unjustified' and Roselle believes his actions were 'justified and appropriate' given the circumstances.

'Police officers face challenges every shift that may require split second decisions. Those decisions are then calmly reviewed, with 20/20 hindsight, by the criminal justice system, those in political office, the media and the public,' the statement from attorney Gavin Holihan said.

'He believes that when all of the evidence is presented publicly, any fair citizen will reach the same conclusion he reached: that the deadly force used on July 28 was justified and appropriate,' the statement said.
Delano Grangruth, 58, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of 61-year-old Kathleen White-Grangruth

A Virginia man told police he doused his disabled wife in gasoline, set her on fire and burned her alive.

Delano Grangruth, 58, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of 61-year-old Kathleen White-Grangruth and burning a building with the intent to commit a felony.

According to an affidavit to search the man's clothes by Detective Matthew Nordan, Delano lit his wife on fire and then ran out of their Norfolk home, The Virginian-Pilot reports.

Nordan stated that firefighters went to the couple's home after White-Grangruth's caregiver smelled something burning and called 911.

Firefighters forced their way inside and found White-Grangruth heavily burned. She had been sitting in the chair.

The detective asserted that the high oxidation levels that were seen on the metal of the chair indicated that an accelerant had been used. There was also a considerable amount on the carpet.

The man told detectives that he lit his wife on fire and then ran out of their Norfolk home

Officers knew that Delano got around by a bike and found him on the Military Highway, thew detective explained.

Grangruth told detectives he and his wife, who used a wheelchair, had a serious fight, so he slept at a bar. Authorities say he later said he'd set White-Grangruth ablaze.

'I'm not a monster,' he said, according to WAVY.

'I respect her family and I'm sure they are going through a lot of pain right now, as am I. I'm going through a tremendous amount of pain right now.'

Grangruth told detectives he and his wife, who used a wheelchair, had a serious fight, so he slept at a bar. Authorities say he later said he'd set White-Grangruth ablaze

Grangruth is scheduled to go to court in September. It's unclear if he has a lawyer.

Donna Price, administrator of the state chief medical examiner's Norfolk office, said that White-Gangruth died from 'acute thermal injuries.'

The elderly woman suffered from dementia and schizophrenia, according to caretaker Katrina Banks.

Grangruth is scheduled to go to court in September. It's unclear if he has a lawyer

She is said to have needed the wheelchair after undergoing heart surgery years ago.

White-Gangruth was a Newfoundland, Canada, native and had served as a Tripler Army Medical Center nurse in the Army in Honolulu.

'Kathy's passion was always to help and give to others,' her family said in the woman's obituary.

Banks said that Delano 'Del' was mean and that he would curse and yell at his wife's caretakers.

'He got mad at everything,' Banks said. 'He's a firecracker.'

Delano had been charged with assaulting his wife and was said to have threatened to burn down their home, five years ago.

That case was dismissed by a judge.
I am a retired newspaperman. I live in Poca, WV, with my wife of 44 years, Lou Ann. I grew up in Cleveland. Three kids. Grandfather.



Report all errors to DonSurber@GMail.com
An inebriated South Carolina woman who was pulled over for running a stop sign and speeding over the weekend thought she could get police to let her go by listing what she deemed her many achievements, among them that she was a 'very clean, thoroughbred, white girl.'

But officers with the Bluffton Police Department were unimpressed by Lauren Cutshaw's supposed bona fides and arrested her anyway for traffic violations and marijuana possession.

According to an arrest report, Cutshaw, 32, was stopped on Boundary Street in Bluffton just before 2am on Saturday after she was observed going 30mph over the speed limit and blowing past a stop sign.

Lauren Cutshaw, 32 (pictured in her mugshot, left), was arrested Saturday on DUI and marijuana charges, despite her best efforts to convince police to let her go by pointing to her being a 'white, clean girl'

Woman in a rush: Police in South Carolina caught Cutshaw blowing past a stop sign in Bluffton and doing 60mph in a 30mph speed zone

When officers approached the womans vehicle, they noticed that the driver's eyes appeared bloodshot and glassy, she was slurring her speech and the interior of her car reeked of alcohol.

Cutshaw, who works as a real estate agent, told police she had only imbibed two glasses of wine.

When the officers asked the woman to specify how full were the glasses, Cutshaw, who turns 33 on Thursday, vaguely replied, 'I mean, I was celebrating my birthday.'

Cutshaw reportedly failed field sobriety tests and a Breathalyzer showed that her blood alcohol level was .18, which is more than twice the legal limit of 0.08 in South Carolina.

According to the police report obtained by Island Packet, Cutshaw then attempted to talk her way out of jail, telling the officers that she had perfect grades her whole life, she was a cheerleader and a sorority girl, she attended a 'high accredited university' and was a member of the National Honor Society, and she mentioned her partner is a police officer.

A police report stated that Cutshaw, who works for a real estate company, had bloodshot and glassy eyes, was slurring her speech and her car smelled of alcohol. She then failed a breathalyzer

Hail Mary: In a desperate bid to try and get off the hook, the 32-year-old proceeded to list her perceived accomplishments, including that she had perfect grades her whole life, she was a cheerleader and a sorority girl and she attended a 'high accredited university'

Apparently desperate to avoid getting locked up, Cutshaw included in her long list of her perceived accomplishments that she is a 'white, clean girl.'

When an officer asked how that information was relevant to the matter at hand, she reportedly replied, You're a cop, you should know what that means.'

Making statements such as these as a means to justify not being arrested are unusual in my experience as a law enforcement officer and I believe further demonstrate the suspects level of intoxication, the officer wrote in the report.

Having failed to sway police, Custhaw was booked into the Beaufort County Detention Center on charges of driving under the influence, speeding, disregarding a stop sign, possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

According to her LinkedIn page, Custhaw has a Bachelors degree in business administration from Louisiana State University, where she was philanthropy chairman at Delta Zeta sorority.

The networking site indicates that Cutshaw was hired in June as a real estate adviser with Engel & Volkers Hilton Head- Bluffton. As of Tuesday afternoon, her name was no longer listed on the company's site.

Dailymail.com has reached out to the firm for comment.
Jonathan King, pictured here outside Westminster Magistrates Court, had gone on trial in June accused of grooming 11 starstruck young boys for sex

Alleged victims of Jonathan King yesterday threatened to start a private prosecution against him.

They spoke out after prosecutors abandoned proceedings against the 73-year-old former music mogul.

He had gone on trial in June accused of grooming 11 starstruck young boys for sex. But the trial collapsed when it emerged that police hid key evidence and misled the court.

One alleged victim came forward as long ago as 2002 after King was convicted of sex offences against five youngsters aged 14 and 15.

He said he was meeting a solicitor to consider civil action, adding: It is still not over as far as I am concerned.

The man told police that King used his fame to groom him, introducing him to DJ Kenny Everett and raping him at the age of 14.

Surrey Police did not act on his allegations until an independent review of the case by Merseyside Police revealed they had missed investigative opportunities. Another accuser, who reported King to police in 2001, was said yesterday to be devastated by the collapse of the case.

Kirk McIntyre, 62, told police he was in awe of Kings celebrity status and white Daimler when he met him at the age of 15.

He claims King plied him with drink before raping him.

In 2005 when King was released from jail after serving just three and a half years, Mr McIntyre confronted him in a hotel telling him: Ive been in a mental prison for 35 years because of your abuse.

His alleged victims are now threatening to sue him after the case was thrown out when it emerged that police hid key evidence and misled the court

Kirk McIntyre, 62, told police he was in awe of Kings celebrity status and white Daimler when he met him at the age of 15 (pictured)

A year later he suffered a stroke that made him unable to give evidence. His wife, who did not wish to be identified, said: He is devastated. I could tell from the look on his face when I told him the news. He has been waiting 17 years for justice.

We have been in limbo, waiting for closure. The police kept his evidence on file so they had something to use against King if he did anything again.

Kirk's wife, who did not wish to be identified, said: He is devastated. I could tell from the look on his face when I told him the news. He has been waiting 17 years for justice'

Another complainant said he was angry that police had not acted sooner. The man reported King to police in 2002, telling officers that he had groomed him when he was a 15-year-old schoolboy in 1986.

King took him to smart restaurants and drove him around in a Rolls Royce before abusing him, he said. Yesterday he told the Mail: Of course Im going to be angry. How come it has taken so long for something to be done and then this happens? Its not fair.

King yesterday taunted his accusers by claiming he had been cleared. In reality, the 23 sexual abuse charges he faced have been stayed, which means the case will not go ahead but the allegations have not been disproved.

On Twitter, King also took the opportunity of plugging his film Vile Pervert, which tells the story of a television celebrity brought down by malicious abuse allegations.

The bizarre homemade film opens with an entirely nude King, flashing the camera, before he goes on to sing: Theres nothing wrong with b****** boys.
Millennials like to be on the move, and while states with a high cost of living  like New York and California  remain popular destinations for young people, Minnesota is the state with the highest influx of the 20- and 30-something set.

The Midwest state drew the highest ratio of young newcomers in 2016, the most recent year for which data is available. In fact, 63 percent of the new arrivals to Minnesota that year were Millennials, according to an analysis of U.S. Census data by Porch.com.

California was the next most popular state among Millennials, with 59 percent of its new arrivals falling into that generation, followed by Michigan (57 percent), New York (56.4 percent) and Louisiana (56.3 percent).

This map illustrates the states with the highest- and lowest percentage of new Millennial residents

Rounding out the top ten were Wisconsin (55 percent), Ohio (53 percent), Virginia (53 percent), Texas (52 percent) and Illinois (51.5 percent).

'Millennials are moving away from big cities,' said Chris Lewis, project manager at Porch.com. 'Millennials aren't finding it as important to be in New York City anymore and they're moving toward other cities in the country.'

He said that jobs are most important factor that attracts young people, but as work becomes more mobile other priorities are starting to come into play.

'I think Millennials just value things differently,' Lewis said. 'It may be a slower pace, job opportunities, and certainly more work is remote now so it seems less important to be in these metropolises.'

At the other end of the spectrum, Nevada had the lowest influx of Millennials, with just 21 percent of its new population in 2016 falling into the 1982-1997 age bracket.

Arizona and Delaware came next, both with 24 percent, followed by Hawaii (25 percent), Wyoming (28 percent) and New Mexico (29 percent).

This map illustrates the median age of new residents in each state, with yellow states representing younger populations and green states representing older populations

This map illustrates which states saw an increase or decrease in the median age of its new residents in 2016 compared with 2015, according to Census data

Using a different metric, North Dakota's new residents in 2016 had the lowest median age in the nation, meaning the youngest Millennials flocked to that state, which Forbes listed as one of the best states for business.

Utah was next, with a median age of 25.2 among newcomers, followed by, Iowa (25.8), Indiana (26.2) and New York (26.6).

Florida's new residents had the highest median age (37.2), followed by Arizona (33.8) and Nevada (32.6).

A majority (84 percent) of Millennials are willing to relocate for a job and 82 percent believe they will have to in order to advance their careers, according to a study by Wakefield Research.

At the city level, Sunnyvale, California had the highest influx (76.6 percent) of Millennials in the country in 2016  which makes sense given the big tech employers like Google, Apple and LinkedIn located in that area.

This map illustrates the 10 most popular cities in the country for Millennials to relocate to in 2016, the most recent year for which data is available

Arlington, Virginia took second place, with 70 percent of the city's newcomers falling into the Millennial age bracket, followed by San Francisco (69 percent), Madison, Wisconsin (67.3 percent) and Longmont, Colorado (66.5 percent).

'Any kind of diversity is a good thing, including of age,' Lewis said. 'This is the up and coming generation that may soon be buying houses ... Millennials are going to be where the money is in a few years.'

To that end, some states were more successful than others at importing Millennials from abroad  in many cases those cities that tend to be tech business hubs.

To that end, Berkeley, California attracted the most young expats, with 73.8 percent of its new international population falling into the Millennial age bracket.

Tempe, Arizona came in second (67 percent), followed by Omaha, Nebraska (62 percent), Durham, North Carolina (60.4 percent) and Seattle (60.4 percent).
A Tennessean man on vacation in Florida with his girlfriend, thought his chance to propose to her had been washed away when the custom ring he was ready to give her was swept away in a wave.

Taylor Farrar was going over his plan to propose to his girlfriend of four years, Cassandra Arn, with his friends in the water. He thought the ring, his bank card and driver's license, were safe inside a zip locked bag tucked in the velcro pocket of his swim trunks.

But mother nature made her move first, and took Farrar off his balance with a mighty wave. He lost the bag, and its precious contents into the Gulf of Mexico.

'It tumbled me,' Farrar said of the wave. As far as the custom engagement ring, he said 'I never thought it would be found.'

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Taylor Farrar thought his chance to propose to his girlfriend, Cassandra Arn had washed away when the custom engagement ring he had in his pocket was swept away in a wave

Happily ever after: The relieved group posed on the beach with a surprised bride-to-be

For the next 45 long minutes, Farrar and his friends' frantically searched the waters and the beach.

Further down the beach, Sandy Osborn who was also on a trip with friends, had her feet in the water when she noticed a bag she first assumed was trash.

Sandy Osborn noticed a plastic bag float by and thought it was trash, but when it floated by again she noticed an ID card inside

'We all had beach chairs sitting at the edge of the water,' Osborn told the News Herald.

'I saw something go under my chair and into the ocean. I thought it was trash. Ten minutes later it went back under my chair. I saw his license [in the bag]. At first, I didn't see the ring.'

Osborn, from Alabama, held onto the bag, thinking she would call the bank to get the card back to its rightful owner.

Meanwhile his friends had started asking beach-goers if they came across the bag.

Once they reached Osborn, she was happy to be able to produce the bag.

'I'm super thankful,' Farrar said. 'It gave me faith in humanity. There still are some decent people out here. I appreciate her honesty.'

Sea you later: The proposal that almost wasn't. After Farrar lost the ring in the waters at the beach he thought he would never see it again, lucky for him a good Samaritan named Sandy noticed the bag she thought was trash actually had some personal affects inside

Instead of doing a quirky message-in-a-bottle proposal Farrar initially envisioned, he decided he wasn't going to take any more chances, so he took the ring over to his girlfriend who was lounging on a beach chair, and popped the question right there.

She said yes.

Nearby, Osborn cried during the proposal. She and the happy couple have become instant friends.

'Cassandra said: ''You're invited to the wedding,'' Osborn said. 'I told them to come back to Panama City Beach and get married where I found the ring.'
Convicted child killer Billy Ray Irick will face the death penalty on Thursday after a court refused to stay his execution.

The 59-year-old, who was convicted of raping and murdering seven-year-old Paula Dyer in 1985, has been moved to death watch this week - meaning he is in an 8ft by 10ft cell in sight of the death chamber with strictly regulated visitation rights.

The move brings Irick close to becoming the first inmate executed by Tennessee since 2009 and without intervention he is set to be put to death on Thursday.

Irick is one of 33 inmates on death row who have challenged the state's execution process but attorneys for the prisoners were told they had failed in their challenge even though it is likely to succeed on appeal.

Billy Ray Irick raped and murdered seven-year-old Paula Dyer in an attack in April 1985

But Tennessee Supreme Court judges ruled Irick's attorney had failed to demonstrate a substantially less painful means to carry out the execution or that the drugs the state plans to use would cause the inmate to be tortured to death.

For the first time, Tennessee is planning to use midazolam as a sedative, the muscle-relaxer vecuronium bromide and then potassium chloride to stop the heart.

At question is whether midazolam is effective in rendering someone unconscious and unable to feel pain from the other two drugs.

Federal public defender Kelley Henry said she will request a stay with the US Supreme Court.

She had asked Gov Bill Haslam to issue a temporary reprieve while the drugs are studied further. But the governor quickly ruled it out, saying he would not intervene.

Irick is one of 33 death row inmates to challenge lethal injection protocol in Tennessee. Pictured is the death chamber at Riverbend Maximum Security Prison in Nashville

He said: 'My role is not to be the 13th juror or the judge or to impose my personal views, but to carefully review the judicial process to make sure it was full and fair.

'Because of the extremely thorough judicial review of all of the evidence and arguments at every stage in this case, clemency is not appropriate.'

The Tennessee Supreme Court's majority wrote that its rules require proving that the lawsuit challenging the lethal injection drugs is likely to succeed on appeal, but Irick's attorney has failed to do so.

The inmates' attorneys have appealed to the state Court of Appeals.

During the last trial, Henry cited witnesses that described some inmates who still could move, shed a tear, gasp and gulp 'like a fish out of water' while being put to death.

'Today's decision means that Mr Irick faces a scheduled execution date before the courts have had a chance to thoughtfully consider the challenge to the new lethal injection protocol,' Henry said in a statement Monday.

In a dissenting opinion, Justice Sharon Lee added that she 'will not join in the rush to execute Mr Irick and would instead grant him a stay to prevent ending his life before his appeal can be adjudicated.'

Kathy Jeffers, Paula's mother, says she feels 'nothing' for Irick's pain following his crimes

Without intervention Irick will be executed on Thursday after he was moved to death watch

Paula's mother, Kathy Jeffers, told WBIR-TV: 'What he did to her is the reason he's where he is.

'I am sick of hearing about his pain and his suffering. What about her pain and her suffering?

'She was seven years old, raped, sodomised, and strangled to death. I'm sorry, I feel nothing for his pain. Nothing at all. God, forgive me, but I don't.'

Attorneys for the state have said the US Supreme Court has upheld the use of midazolam in a three-drug series.

They say inmates' attorneys have the burden of identifying an alternative and haven't.

If the state's previous drug, pentobarbital, were available, the state would use it, attorneys for the state say.

But death penalty opponents have persuaded companies not to sell pentobarbital for executions, they have argued.

The advocacy group Tennesseans for Alternatives to the Death Penalty was planning a rally Tuesday against the execution, saying Irick has a lifelong, severe and well-documented mental illness.

They also are opposing the use of midazolam.
A 15-year-old girl allegedly searched 'scary movies where kids kill parents' before murdering both her mother and father.

Daejona Holmes has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder, as well as armed criminal action and tampering with physical evidence.

She allegedly shot her parents Kinderly Holmes, 37, and Brian Starr, 38, in their Kansas City, Missouri home in April. She will be tried as an adult.

Authorities said that they received a 911 call from the teen, who first claimed that her parents were shot during a robbery.

Daejona Holmes, 15, allegedly searched 'scary movies where kids kill parents' before murdering both her mother and father

Holmes, who called the police from a nearby McDonald's, then quickly changed her story and said she shot her father after he shot her mother.

Kinderly Holmes, who was discovered in an upstairs bedroom, had been shot once in the stomach. Starr, found near the front door, was shot twice in the torso and once in the mouth.

After obtaining a search warrant, investigators found that Holmes had recently searched for 'scary movies where kids kill parents' and saved rap lyrics about wanting her father dead.

A video on her phone showed Holmes dancing in her bedroom while holding a handgun.

Investigators also discovered a drawing that showed one stick figure shooting another. One figure was labeled 'Dad' and another was labeled 'Me'.

A third stick figure had X's for eyes and 'blood' all around it, according to the Kansas City Star.

She allegedly shot her parents Kinderly Holmes, 37, (pictured) and Brian Starr, 38, in their Kansas City, Missouri home in April. She will be tried as an adult

The teen told investigators that she had been heating up macaroni in the kitchen when she heard her parents fighting and a gun being fired.

Holmes said she found her mother lying dead in her room, with a handgun lying next to her, according to court records.

She claimed to have picked up the gun and walked downstairs, where she allegedly shot her father as he walked toward her.

Holmes said she then fled the house, but returned when she realized she didn't have her cell phone.

Holmes first told police her parents had been shot during a robbery at their home (pictured). She then claimed she shot her father after he shot her mother

She took both her and her mother's phones and also ran upstairs to grab a house key. The teen told police she then changed her clothes and moved her father's body toward the front door.

The teen then threw the handgun in a neighbor's yard and ran to the nearby McDonald's, according to WDAF.

A witness later told police that he had met Holmes at the fast food restaurant after she called him and said she needed help.

He said Holmes then told him her parents had been shot and that he had to convince her to call 911.

Holmes told police that she had first reported her parents' murders as a robbery because she was scared.
Singapore Airlines will relaunch the world's longest commercial flight in October, a journey of nearly 19 hours from New Jersey.

The daily non-stop journey from Changi to Newark Airport will cover about 10,300 miles and take about 18 hours 45 minutes.

Due to rising fuel prices, the airline had to cut the route in 2013. But starting on October 12, the company will relaunch the flight in response to high customer demand for the journey.

Singapore Airlines (file image) will relaunch the world's longest commercial flight in October, a journey of nearly 19 hours from New Jersey

Lee SekEng, the regional vice president for the Americas at Singapore Airlines, told Yahoo Finance that the company has gotten 'a lot of feedback from our customers that they really like the flight because it saves them a lot of time when theyre traveling from the US to Singapore'.

'We have been looking for a solution all this while, and when Airbus came up with the A350,' Lee said.

SekEng said the airline is 'very excited that were able to bring back these non-stop flights. It has been 5 years in the making'.

The current record holder is Qatar Airways Flight 921 from Auckland to Doha, which takes 17 hours 40 minutes.

The Singapore Airlines flight will use the long-range Airbus A350-900ULR, which will be configured to carry 161 passengers - 67 in business class and 94 in premium economy.

The airline, which was recently ranked as the top airline in the world, had flown a similar route from 2004 until 2013 but cancelled it as it fell short of revenue expectations.

Due to rising fuel prices, the airline had to cut the route in 2013. But starting on October 12, the company will relaunch the flight in response to high customer demand for the journey. Pictured is the Newark Liberty International Airport

Changi Airport, in Singapore (pictured), is one of the busiest - and best - airports in Southeast Asia

However, its latest decision comes as carriers look for new sources of revenue in a competitive environment, while long-haul flights often make more cash than those that require stops.

There are also plans for a non-stop route from Singapore to Los Angeles using the same plane, the airline said.

The new route comes as the city-state's flag carrier faces tough challenges.

Last year, it consolidated its low-cost units TigerAir and Scoot into a single entity in a streamlining exercise.

And this month it said it will absorb its struggling premium regional wing, SilkAir, into the broader group following a multi-million-dollar upgrade as part of reforms to stay competitive.
An opinion piece appearing on two state-backed media sites out of China has called for US brands to share profits stemming from strong sales in the country, as it states Chinese organizations 'have experienced big losses' due to President Donald Trump's trade war.

The article specifically calls out Apple, which has long benefited from less expensive production costs of China and reported a 19 percent increase to sales in the greater China region in its latest quarterly report, through June 30.

The increase brought Apple's sales in China to $9.6 billion.

'The eye-catching success achieved in the Chinese market may provoke nationalist sentiment if US President Donald Trump's recently adopted protectionist measures hit Chinese companies hard,' Hu Weijia wrote in the piece.

Trump's administration announced on Wednesday that it would considered raising levies on Chinese imports on $200 billion worth of products to up to 25 percent, to which China responded with its own proposal for tariffs at roughly the same percentages.

Trump reportedly told Apple CEO Tim Cook that iPhones would be safe from US levies.

Weijia's article was first published by the Global Times and then appeared again in People's Daily on Tuesday.

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An opinion piece appearing on two state-backed media sites out of China has called for US brands, namely Apple, to share profits stemming from strong sales in the country; Chinese President Xi Jinping is seen here attending a meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo at the Great Hall of the People on June 14 in Beijing, China

'In an increasingly interconnected world, Apple is a particularly good example of global manufacturing,' Weijia wrote.

'China now serves as a key production and processing base for Apple. Many Chinese companies have been included in Apple's production chain to provide parts and components or assembly work. This has allowed Apple to benefit from China's ample supply of cheap labor.'

The author noted that China has also benefited through this arrangement due to job creation, so the country isn't likely to close its doors to the tech giant, but cited a statistic that 'Chinese processors only get 1.8 percent of the total profits created by the [iPhone].'

Apple, which recently became the first US public company to hit a $1 trillion valuation, saw a 19 percent increase in sales in the greater China region in quarter three, reporting $9.6 billion in Chinese sales through June 30

'[I]f Apple wants to continue raking in enormous profits from the Chinese markets amid trade tensions, the company needs to do more to share the economic cake with local Chinese people,' Weijia wrote.

How the writer would like Apple to do that was not clear.

Last week, China outlined how it would impose tariffs ranging from 5-25 percent on four different categories encompassing about $60 billion of US goods, if pressed by the Trump administration, CNBC reported.

'The implementation date of the taxation measures will be subject to the actions of the US, and China reserves the right to continue to introduce other countermeasures,' China's Ministry of Commerce said in a release on its website, according to a translation.

'Any unilateral threat or blackmail will only lead to intensification of conflicts and damage to the interests of all parties.'

The White House responded on Friday, through Press Secretary Sarah Sanders.

'Instead of retaliating, China should address the longstanding concerns about its unfair trading practices, many of which are laid out in USTRs 301 report,' she said.

The piece by Weijia portrayed things differently, however.

'It seems US companies doing business in China are the biggest winners from China-US trade,' Weihia wrote.

'The Chinese market is vital for many top US brands, giving Beijing more leeway to play hardball in the trade conflict.'

Apple, which recently became the first US public company to hit a $1 trillion valuation, according to CNBC, declined to provide comment.
Christine Hallquist, the first openly transgender gubernatorial candidate in the nation's history, is touting her chances to succeed.

And Vermonters won't take her transition into consideration when they go to the polls in the August 14 primary, predicts one top Democrat.

'It will be irrelevant in Vermont,' said the state's former governor Howard Dean to Politico.

Christine Hallquist is the first openly transgender gubernatorial candidate in U.S. history

Former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean said Hallquist's gender will not be an issue in the election

Hallquist is running in the Democratic primary as a wonky technocrat.

She is pushing a plan to revitalize rural Vermont by laying high-speed, fiber optic cable statewide and has experience in the utility industry, having served as CEO of Vermont Electric Coop, which she brought back to financial health while increasing its use of renewable energy sources.

Her chief rival to the Democratic nomination is environmental advocate James Ehlers, a Navy veteran who is running to the left of the socialists in Vermont.

'I celebrate Christine for the example she's setting,' he told a voter forum, 'But fundamentally we're very, very different people and that's reflected in my lifetime of service to people and the planet and Christine's decision to spend her time in the corporate world.'

Also running for the Democratic nomination is high school freshman Ethan Sonneborn, a 14-year-old who exploited a loophole in the state constitution to become a legally viable candidate.

No matter who wins the Democratic primary, they have a good chance of being victorious in November.

Republican Gov. Phil Scott's approval rating has dropped sharply - a 38 point drop between the first and second quarters of this year.

His problems seem to be a gun law he signed.

He promised to impose no gun control measures, but after a school shooting scare in February, he signed one in April that angered the GOP base and resulted in a write-in Republican primary challenge.

The legislation he signed limits some aspects of gun possession and empowers authorities to remove guns from people who may be dangerous.

'I understand I may lose support over the decision to sign these bills today, but those are consequences I am prepared to live with,' Scott said at the time as he stood on the steps of the state Capitol building while protestors jeered him.

The subject of guns is a touchy issue in Vermont, which has a strong hunting culture along with an independent streak.

Hallquist declined to discuss the issue, other than to say she owned five hunting rifles.

Born male in 1956 and raised as a boy named Dave in upstate New York, Hallquist moved to Vermont as a young adult when her father's job was relocated to Burlington.

She told Politico she felt like a girl since childhood but her mother warned her to keep her feelings to herself or risk being committed to an asylum.

She married a wife, Pat, and fathered three children.

She later came out to Pat, a support group, and the rest of her family. In 2015 she came out to the world. She also started hormone replacement therapy.

Hallquist, 62, said Trump's election the next year depressed her, but also inspired her to run.

Vermont has a long history of embracing progressive causes with a bit of an independence streak. One of its senators is the independent - and very liberal - Bernie Sanders.

'Thousands of people have fought for freedom before me and died for freedom,' she said. 'The least I could do is give up my retirement.'

She appears to be the third transgender candidate for state office in American history.

The other two are Kim Coco Iwamoto, who is running for Hawaii's lieutenant governor, and WikiLeaks source Chelsea Manning, who ran for Senate in Maryland earlier this year and lost in the primary.

Vermont has a long history of embracing progressive causes with a bit of an independence streak. One of its senators is the independent - and very liberal - Bernie Sanders.

Vermont also was the first state to abolish slavery, it gave women the right to vote decades before that became part of the constitution, it was the first to grant same-sex couples civil unions with full marriage rights, and it was the first to legalize cannabis for recreational use by legislative action.
Its not the book youd expect Gerry Adams to be writing.

But the Irish Republican leader has announced bizarre plans to publish a peace process cookery book.

The former president of Sinn Fein  the political wing of the IRA  said the book could contain recipes served during the 1998 talks which led to the Good Friday Agreement.

Gerry Adams (pictured), the former president of Sinn Fein  the political wing of the IRA has released The Negotations Cookbook that would contain recipes with some of the best-kept secrets of the 1998 peace process

Entitled The Negotiators Cook Book, it is expected to be printed before Christmas.

The news that Mr Adams  who defended the IRA despite its atrocities during the Troubles  was trying to rebrand himself as a cuddly cookery writer was attacked by one of the groups victims last night.

Lord Tebbit, who had to be pulled out of the wreckage of the 1984 Brighton Bomb attack which paralysed his wife, told the Mail: I hope it chokes him.

Mr Adams, who has always denied having been a member of the IRA, gave details of the book during a talk at a festival in west Belfast on Monday.

And he also revealed he was a fan of many British childrens books such as the works of Enid Blyton, Biggles, Roy of the Rovers and the Just William series.

Mr Adams announced that Sinn Fein had been blessed with several cooks who helped feed the team during lengthy negotiations in the lead-up to the 1998 Good Friday Agreement

He told his audience that his cookbook would contain recipes with some of the best-kept secrets of the 1998 peace process.

The former Sinn Fein leader later tweeted a photo of its cover, along with the message: Not 2 Long 2 Christmas. A Wee Taste Of A Great Stocking Filler From Ted & Padraic agus Mise. [and myself].

He has written the book with Ted Howell and Padraic Wilson, both senior Republican figures.

The Irish Times reported that the politician, who still represents County Louth in the Irish Parliament, told an audience that Sinn Fein had been blessed with several cooks who helped feed the team during lengthy negotiations in the lead-up to the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.

The peace deal helped to end 30 years of violence in Northern Ireland.

The British never fed us, they never had any food, he said.

But as intrepid republicans and being blessed by one or two great cooks these are the recipes that sustained the Irish negotiating team.

Mr Adams, who is apparently a keen amateur chef, is trying to rebrand himself as a cuddly cookery writer

It contains some of the best-kept secrets of the Irish peace process.

Mr Adams, who stepped down as Sinn Fein president at the start of the year, is apparently a keen amateur chef himself, often tweeting pictures of his own attempts in the kitchen.

He has already published a number of books, including memoirs and historical works, and is also expected to release a book of short stories next year, which he said has been five years in the making.

The former Sinn Fein leader was speaking at a Feile an Phobail event in west Belfast on Monday night. In his first solo appearance at the festival, Mr Adams said he preferred writing fiction to non-fiction.

IRA victim Lord Tebbit, who had to be pulled out of the wreckage of the 1984 Brighton Bomb attack which paralysed his wife, told the Mail: I hope it chokes him.

Returning to the political field, he urged people against identifying as Northern Irish in the next UK census in 2021. He recalled being puzzled as a teenager when an official form asked him to state whether he was British or Irish.

I was surprised that a form would ask such a question, he said. Theres a census coming up and please dont let anyone put Northern Irish. Some people are on a little journey and we should assist them in that journey at this time.

Mr Adams told the audience that as a boy he devoured many British childrens stories as well as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by US author Mark Twain.

He also revealed that for many years Irish republicans had not kept proper records of their negotiations with the British. There would be meetings and no record of the meetings, he said.

Mr Adams described going into the National Library in Dublin for research, saying: If you want to write fiction, you need time for day-dreaming.
As you've probably read by now, the fake "president" is freaking out that Idiot, Jr. and Kushner-in-law are going to be indicted in Putin-Gate . There's plenty more than that they should both be indicted for. Last week's Franklin Foer essay for This Is So Much Bigger Than Paul Manafort , gets to the heart of it far better than any simpleminded Trump tweet for his moron base ever will. Topic, as you may have guessed from the title: kleptocracy. In case you're unaware of the term, like kakistocracy, it comes from the Greek. Kleptocracy references, "thief,", "I steal," and, "power, rule." Where kakistocracy is a government run by the worst, least qualified, or most unscrupulous citizens, Kleptocracy, according to Wikipedia, "is a government with corrupt leaders (kleptocrats) that use their power to exploit the people and natural resources of their own territory in order to extend their personal wealth and political powers. Typically, this system involves embezzlement of funds at the expense of the wider population." It would be difficult to accurately determine which is a better description of the Trump regime.

Kleptocracies are generally associated with dictatorships, oligarchies, military juntas, or other forms of autocratic and nepotist governments in which external oversight is impossible or does not exist. This lack of oversight can be caused or exacerbated by the ability of the kleptocratic officials to control both the supply of public funds and the means of disbursal for those funds. Kleptocratic rulers often treat their country's treasury as a source of personal wealth, spending funds on luxury goods and extravagances as they see fit. Many kleptocratic rulers secretly transfer public funds into hidden personal numbered bank accounts in foreign countries to provide for themselves if removed from power.

Sound familiar? Let's get to what Foer had to say. He asserts that Manafort is one of the architects of this new world order, in which "America has become the sanctuary of choice for laundered money, a bastion of shell companies and anonymously purchased real estate [and in which] American elites have learned to plant money offshore with acumen that comes close to matching their crooked counterparts abroad."

During the 1980s and 90s, he provided strategic advice to the thuggish dictators who served as proxies for the Reagan administrations anticommunist foreign policy. With his mastery of American media, he helped sanitize crooks like former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos and his wife, Imelda-- the symbol of their rule, the 3,000 pairs of shoes she owned, was still fewer than the number of people by killed by the regime. These dictators (also Angolas Jonas Savimbi, the Congos Mobutu Sese Seko, and Kenyas Daniel arap Moi) should never have been respectable figures in Washington. But Manafort reinvented them as latter-day Thomas Jeffersons, allies in the cause of democracy, and successfully lobbied for them to receive arms and aid from the U.S. government.





As communism fell, the former Soviet Union became the scene of one of the biggest heists in history, and the opportunity of a lifetime for Paul Manafort. In Russia, the KGB steered billions of dollars into offshore accounts during the dying days of the regime, the beginning of a pattern of plunder best described by the late Karen Dawisha in her instant classic, Putins Kleptocracy. These funds became the basis for some of the fortunes of those who now appear as characters in the Russiagate scandal. Vladimir Putin himself amassed wealth that totaled more than $40 billion when Dawisha calculated his haul several years ago. Russians who invested in Trump real estate over the years had many motives. But everything we know about kleptocracy suggests that they were likely attempting to relocate their money to a place where it would both disappear from public view and have the protections that come with the American rule of law.





An important part of this story is Ukraine. Paul Manafort went to work there in 2004-- and the countrys ruling party remained his primary client until 2014. During those years, the country hemorrhaged more than $118 billion in illicit financial flows, according to the Kleptocracy Initiative, a think tank that has published invaluable reports about the scourge of corruption. (To set that number in relief, the countrys entire GDP in 2013 was $181 billion.) Stealing this money wasnt a victimless crime: It came at the expense of Ukraines development as a market economy; it sucked funds away from public investment; it eroded faith in democracy and Western institutions. The West hypocritically lectured Ukraine about good government while it profited from Ukrainian oligarchs parking cash in Vienna, London, and New York.





Russian and Ukrainian oligarchs stole these vast fortunes, but they couldnt accomplish the feat on their own. They needed enablers, and in the course of Muellers prosecution of Manafort, weve come to see how pillars of the American establishment filled this role.





Barack Obamas White House counsel Greg Craig and his top-drawer law firm, Skadden Arps, abetted former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovychs efforts to smash the political opponents who might get in the way of his thievery. Manafort arranged for the firm to publish a report justifying the arrest of a former Ukrainian prime minister, who had been denied counsel at crucial moments of her trial. (Last April, Craig retired under a cloud of scandal. Another Skadden associate who worked with Manafort has pleaded guilty to misleading Special Counsel Robert Muellers investigators.) Tony Podesta, a leading Democratic lobbyist of his generation, has watched his own power firm collapse after Mueller revealed his complicity in Manaforts efforts. These are not stray villains, but representative figures: American law firms play an essential role in protecting global kleptocracy and helping it relocate money to the United States.





Manafort was, of course, the most important enabler of them all. During the decade he spent in Ukraine, he helped a clique of former gangsters seize control of the countrys governmental machinery, a feat he achieved by bringing state-of-the-art campaign strategy to a barely developed democracy. He hired a network of former European politicians to apologize for the regime, to whitewash its history of corruption and illiberalism. Back in Washington, Manafort would escort oligarchs around town, taking them to think tanks and meetings with politicians, helping them achieve the legitimacy that they hoped would protect their ill-gotten fortunes.





It doesnt require any imagination to see how money stolen from Ukrainian coffers, money won in rigged privatizations and crony contracts, money obtained after the brutal murder of rivals, ended up with Paul Manafort. Clean money doesnt need to travel through shell companies in Cyprus, unlike the millions that Manafort poured into accounts there. And Manafort allegedly used the same techniques of his dodgy clients to repatriate the money in the United States, taking advantage of gaps in the enforcement of anti-money-laundering laws to sneak cash into the country through real estate, expensive rugs, and tailored suits.





Whats increasingly clear is that Manafort also attempted to exploit the Trump campaign with similarly kleptocratic aims. Take the story of Stephen Calk, which has emerged in the course of Muellers pretrial filings. Calk owns a small Chicago bank. In the summer of 2016, Manafort applied for a loan from the bank-- and the claims in Manaforts loan applications were obviously shaky. According to Mueller, bank officials were quite adamant in expressing their reservations about Manaforts application. But there was apparently a backstory that these officials didnt know. Calk had won a place on Trumps board of economic advisers, one of 13. Muellers lawyers have said that they plan to prove that Calk landed this official title only after promising Manafort loans. So even as Manafort departed the campaign amid widespread allegations of misdeeds, Calk extended him loan after loan$16 million in total. (The loans represented 22 percent of the banks total equity capital.)





This small tale is just one instance of a larger genre repeated across this administration-- the hints that foreign countries are financing deals that profit the presidents own family; the long list of officials (see also: Scott Pruitt, Tom Price) abusing the perquisites of their office. And those stories are just a subset of an even larger narrative still, of an American elite increasingly at home in the ranks of international kleptocracy. Thanks to Robert Mueller, that racket is now on trial.
Jeremy Corbyn has been accused of questioning Israels very right to exist in an interview on Iranian TV.

A 2011 clip of the then backbench MP has surfaced in which he said the view that Israel had a right to exist was an example of BBC bias.

Labour Friends of Israel condemned the remark, which appears to contravene the international definition of anti-Semitism which states it is anti-Semitic to deny the Jewish people their right to self-determination.

Footage of Mr Corbyn's interview was tweeted today, showing the MP saying the BBC's director-general was under pressure from Israeli officials

Mr Corbyn also told Press TV that it was biased to describe Israel as a democracy. The video emerged as Labour grandee Dame Margaret Hodge faced a barrage of online criticism  some of it anti-Semitic  from supporters of Mr Corbyn.

The peer, who is Jewish, had criticised the Labour leaders decision not to adopt in full the definition of anti-Semitism as laid down by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA).

Footage of Mr Corbyns interview with Press TV was tweeted today by political blogger the Golem. The politician was filmed saying then BBC director-general Mark Thompson was under pressure from Israeli officials.

The Labour leader said the view that Israel has a right to exist was an example of the BBC's bias toward the country

There is pressure on the BBC from probably Mark Thompson, who seems to me to have an agenda in this respect, he said.

There seems to be a great deal of pressure on the BBC from the Israeli government and the Israeli embassy, and they are very assertive towards all journalists and to the BBC itself  they challenge every single thing on reporting the whole time.

'I think there is a bias towards saying that Israel is a democracy in the Middle East, that Israel has a right to exist, that Israel has its security concerns.

Reacting, Jewish Leadership Council chief executive Simon Johnson said the comments were at odds with Labours policy on Israel.

Dame Margaret Hodge (pictured) has described her own party as a 'hostile environment for Jews'

He said: Sorry Mr Corbyn. Do you therefore think that Israel is not a democracy, does not have a right to exist and does not have security concerns? And that an organisation is biased if it does believe these things? Wow.

Jennifer Gerber, director of Labour Friends of Israel, said: The Labour Party is now defending Jeremy Corbyn peddling wild conspiracy theories and questioning Israels right to exist on Iranian state TV. For a party which aspires to be in government, this is not normal behaviour.

Labours new code of conduct had omitted four IHRA examples of anti-Semitism, though it was later suggested Mr Corbyn would adopt three of those four tenets for its own anti-Semitism definition.

Jeremy Corbyn came under fire for this appearance on Iranian state TV as concerns about anti-Semitism continue to dog his leadership

But Dame Margaret criticised his handling of the issue. And it emerged last night that members of the We Support Jeremy Corbyn Facebook group have attacked the peer.

One member sarcastically wrote: Please stay Margaret, we need the right kind of Jew in the party like you. Others described her as scum, parasite, treacherous fraud and bitch.

Yesterday Dame Margaret attacked the Labour leaderships bullying approach to critics  and said she was in no doubt figures at the top of the party want to purge opponents of the leader.

She told the Evening Standard the party had become a hostile environment for Jews.

Discussing Mr Corbyns comments from 2011, a Labour spokesman said the remarks were taken out of context and the leader supported a two-state solution.

He added: Jeremy was arguing that, despite... the lack of a Palestinian state, Israeli concerns and perspectives are more likely to appear prominently in news reporting than Palestinian ones.
Searchers have found the remains of a boy on the property where authorities raided a makeshift compound last week in search of a missing Georgia child.

Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe said Tuesday that the remains were found after a search and authorities are awaiting a positive identification of the remains, which were discovered Monday.

Authorities say the search for Abdul-ghani, known as AG, from Georgia, led them Friday to the squalid compound where they found his father, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, four other adults and 11 children living in filthy conditions.

All five adults, two men and three sisters, are facing child abuse charges.

Human remains were found on a New Mexico compound on Monday following a Friday raid where 11 starving children were rescued

Three-year-old AG, who has hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and requires daily medication, has been missing since December and was not found Friday

The father is accused of leaving Georgia in December with his then 3-year-old son.

The New Mexico landowner has also revealed that for months, he and his wife had been trying in vain to convince local officials to evict the group of people from his desert property where deputies rescued the starving children last week.

Jason Badger said Tuesday that he had concerns about the makeshift compound near the Colorado border.

But he says the courts and other authorities shot down his attempts to break up the encampment - described as a trailer buried in the ground.

Court records show a judge dismissed an eviction notice filed by Badger against Lucas Morton in June. The records didn't provide further details on the judge's decision.

Jason Badger, who owns this piece of land near Amalia, New Mexico, said he had been trying to evict the people living there, but his pleas went unheard. A 'no trespassing' sign outside the location where police on Friday found 11 hungry children living in filth

The boy's father, 39-year-old Siraj Wahhaj, his sisters Hujrah Wahhaj, 38, and Subhanah Wahhaj, 35, and their sister-in-law Jany Leveille, 35, have been charged with child abuse.

Neighbor Tyler Anderson, of Amalia, also said on Tuesday he had helped the group install solar panels after they settled on Jason Badger's land in December. But he eventually stopped visiting the site.

Anderson said the children living there at first played at neighboring properties but stopped in recent months.

He also said he never met the three women and did not recall seeing the missing boy.

Siraj had been missing since December, when he vanished from Georgia with his three-year-old disabled son, AG.

Police say he planned to perform an exorcism on the boy who he believed was possessed. AG cannot walk or talk due to a condition caused by brain damage at birth.

Police who were looking for him and and his father had been monitoring the compound in New Mexico but it was not until a message from one of the victims inside emerged to say they were 'starving' that authorities finally went in.

The message was intercepted by Taos County Sheriff's Office. It read: 'We are starving and need food and water.'

Sisters Subhanah Wahhaj, 35, (left) and Hujrah Wahhaj, 38, (right) were arrested on Sunday

Jany Leveille, who also goes by the name Maryam, was also arrested for child abuse on Sunday

Authorities will not say how the message was delivered or who gave it to them but Sheriff Hogrefe said it meant he could not wait any longer for federal authorities to move in on the site.

Sheriff Hogrefe said on Friday that the family was considered 'extremist of the Muslim belief'.

The Wahhaj siblings are the children of the Imam Siraj Wahhaj, 68, who is the leader of the Muslim Alliance of North America.

They have been missing together since at least January when their father appealed for information of their whereabouts on social media.

On Friday, Wahhaj was found in the compound with an AR-15 rifle, five magazines loaded with 30 rounds and four loaded pistols.

Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, 39, had an AR-15 rifle, 150 rounds of ammunition and four loaded pistols at the site. He has been on the run since December when he vanished with his three-year-old disabled son from Georgia. His brother-in-law Lucas Morton (right) was also charged with harboring a fugitive. He is married to Siraj's sister Subhanah

Not found was Wahhaj's three-year-old son AG who suffers from a brain disorder called hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy.

When police closed in on the property on Friday, his father initially refused to follow orders.

Police worried that the raid would end violently because of the fact he was so heavily armed.

'We had learned the occupants were most likely heavily armed and considered extremist of the Muslim belief.

'We also knew from the layout of the compound they would have an advantage if we didnt deploy tactfully and quickly,' Sheriff Hogrefe of the Taos County Sheriff Department said in a statement.

The children had been at the site for months without food and were so skinny their ribs were showing.

The only food found on the compound was a box of rice and some potatoes.

Sheriff Hogrefe described the conditions as the saddest he had ever seen in 30 years of police work.

'We all gave the kids our water and what snacks we had  it was the saddest living conditions and poverty I have seen,' he said, adding that the children looked like 'third world refugees.'

The conditions inside the compound were described by police as the worst they had seen in 30 years

There was no food at the compound and the children had terrible personal hygiene, police said

Amalia is 145 miles northeast of Albuquerque and in an isolated high-desert area near the New Mexico-Colorado border

'I've been a cop for 30 years. I've never seen anything like this. Unbelievable.

'They were skinny, their ribs showed, they were in very poor hygiene and very scared.

'They had 'no shoes, personal hygiene and basically dirty rags for clothing,' he told ABC.

Siraj Wahhaj has been on the run since December when he vanished with AG after telling his mother he was taking him to the park.

AG's mother Hakima Ramzi has made desperate social media appeals to find her son.

Her friends have also set up a GoFundMe page to help pay for the search.

The family has been missing since January when their father, Imam Siraj Wahhaj, appealed for information about them on Facebook

The children's grandfather is Imam Siraj Wahhaj, the leader of the Muslim Alliance of North America and the leader of a mosque in Brooklyn, New York City

Sisters Hujrah (left) and Subhana (right) are pictured. They grew up in New York City and relocated to the South with their brother in 2014

The toddler suffers from seizures, developmental delay, wears braces on his legs and requires daily medication.

His parents were married for 15 years until he vanished in December.

In a Facebook plea for information about her son and husband's whereabouts, Ramzi appealed directly to Subhannah, one of the three mothers found on the compound.

She said: 'It's not about you.

AG's mother Hakima Ramzi was married to his father without incident for 15 years, she said. She has been pleading for AG's return since December and is seen above in a Facebook video appealing for help to find them

'This is all about my son.

'He needs his medication. My worry is not about Subhannah and her kids. My worry is about my son because he is sick.

'He needs his medication, he needs everything. I don't know if he is alive. Please, please, please, I need your help.

'I need my son back to me and then I will leave you alone,' she said.

Wahhaj's father, Imam Surraj Wahhaj, belongs to the Masjid At Taqwa mosque in Brooklyn, New York.

The earliest record of him in the United States dates back to 1983.

It is not clear where he lived beforehand, or if he was born in the US.

In January, his father pleaded for information about their whereabouts.

'Dear Brothers and Sisters, please make duas for the safe return of our children and grandchildren: Siraj, Hujrah, Subhanah Wahhaj, son in law Luqman (Lucas) Morton, and daughter in law Maryam (Jany) Leveille and their children (our 12 grandchildren).

'We believe they may be traveling together,' he said in a Facebook post.

He has not commented on his children's arrest. Imam Wahhaj is the leader of The Muslim Alliance in North America.
Caitlyn Jenner has revealed that she is working behind-the-scenes to advocate for transgender rights with lawmakers in Washington DC.

Jenner, who publicly revealed that she is a transgender woman and a Republican in 2015, told Variety that she is currently 'very politically involved', although up until now, she has been keeping her actions quiet.

'I do it very quietly because I have been so criticized by the liberal side of the media. I can get more things done if I dont stick my nose into everything publicly,' Jenner, 68, said.

In a new interview, Caitlyn Jenner revealed that she has been quietly traveling to Washington, DC, to meet with lawmakers to advocate for transgender rights

Jenner, who once supported Republican Senator Ted Cruz and voted for Donald Trump in the 2016 election, has been accused by others of not doing enough to support the transgender community.

She said that the accusation 'hurts'.

'No matter what you say or do, they think you dont get it because youre this kind of white, privileged person,' Jenner said, nothing that she hasn't 'turned my back on anybody.'

Jenner told Variety that she travels from her Malibu home to Washington, DC, every few weeks for meetings with various political players, to talk about LGBTQ issues and rights, often answering very personal questions about transitioning from male to female.

She said she has spoken with members of Trump's White House staff and about 50 members of the House of Representatives and Senate, including Republican Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan. All of her meetings were conducted out of the spotlight.

'Publicly, they arent supportive of transgender rights,' she said of the people she's spoken with, but declined to reveal specifics of what was discussed for confidentiality reasons.

It's likely that at least two of the topics Jenner has discussed with the politicians is the issue of transgender people serving in the military and allowing transgender people the ability to use the bathroom that matches their gender identity.

Jenner has been keeping her DC trips quiet because she has been 'criticized by the liberal side of the media.' Jenner is pictured in 2016, after a meeting with Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen

Jenner told Variety that she thinks 'we need hard-core legislation, laws on the book of equality' allowing transgender citizens the ability to enlist in the military. 'Its going to take some time, but were working on it,' she said.

In July 2017, President Trump tweeted that transgender Americans would be barred from military service due to the 'tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail.'

The ban was later revised to allow transgender people to serve openly in their 'biological sex,' Bloomberg reported.

Jenner said that she'd previously supported Trump and had been hopeful about his presidency given his promise to include LGBTQ rights in his platform.

Although still a card-carrying Republican, she claimed she's no longer a fan of Trump's now, having watched him roll back LGBTQ rights in schools and attempting to ban transgender people from the military.

Jenner said she hasn't spoken with Trump since he took office, despite tweeting that Trump needed to call her to discuss his withdrawal of federal guidelines allowing transgender youth to use the bathroom that matched their gender identity.

'I honestly dont know what happened when he got in there. It was extraordinarily disappointing,' she said.
The 20-year-old woman whose body was found in rural Iowa last week and who was thought briefly to be missing student Mollie Tibbetts has been identified.

Sadie Alvarado, 20, was found dead in a ditch in West Point, Iowa, on Sunday morning.

Her boyfriend, 28-year-old Damian Hamman, was driving the car when she allegedly jumped out following an argument on Saturday night.

He was charged with leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in death. An autopsy is due to be carried out on Tuesday that will determine the cause of death.

Instead of stopping the car, Hamman carried on driving after his girlfriend jumped out.

Sadie Alvarado, 20, was killed when she jumped out of the car her boyfriend Damian Hamman was driving

He told police he returned to the scene the next day to look for her but she had already been found by a passer-by.

Hamman, 28, was charged after he handed himself in to police on Sunday when he went back to look for his girlfriend's body and discovered she was dead

Hamman handed himself into police shortly afterwards.

Alvarado was an aspiring pediatric nurse. Her mother described her as her 'best friend' on Tuesday after she was publicly identified.

'I am very devastated. She was my only child. My best friend.

'She had a laugh and a smile to brighten up a room,' she told local network KWQC.

Friends of the young woman said they hoped her death gained the same attention as Mollie's disappearance.

One wrote on Facebook: 'We know she isn't Mollie Tibbetts... show her the respect she deserves!'

Part of her obituary reads: 'Sadie loved the outdoors and backroad settings, playing softball, kayaking, tubing, going to the races and most of all spending time with her friends.'

The young woman was working at a rehabilitation center while obtaining her nurse's license. Her death over the weekend came as authorities intensified their search for Mollie, a University of Iowa student who has been missing since July 18.

Sadie, 20, was training to become a nurse and also worked at a rehabilitation center

Mollie was last seen jogging near her boyfriend's home in the town of Brooklyn, around 100 miles from where Sadie died.

Her boyfriend was out of town and she was staying in the house alone. Police have so far questioned a pig farmer over her disappearance but they are yet to name any persons of interest of suspects.

Anyone with information which could lead to finding her is urged to contact the Poweshiek County Sheriff's Office at 641 623 5679 or email tips@poweshiekcosheriff.com

Tips can also be submitted via Crime Stoppers of Central Iowa which has collected $172,000 so far in donations that will be available as a reward for information leading to Mollie's safe return.

Crime Stoppers can be contacted anonymously at 1-800-452-1111 or via their website.
An advocacy group formed by grandmothers known as 'Grannies Respond' had one clear message for President Donald Trump's administration as they finally touched down in Texas: Enough is enough.

The group of bubbly matriarchs - which also contains a bevy of concerned grandpas, aunts and uncles - was formed by a couple of women in the upstate New York town of Beacon, about 60 miles north of New York City, that were worried about 'inhuman treatment' that undocumented immigrants have been subjected to.

So a massive caravan with six different starting points in as many states was organized just a few weeks ago, and it kicked off with a rally in New York City on July 31.

Carolina Clary (pictured) joined the 'Grannies Respond' caravan that traveled to McCallen, TX, site of the largest immigration detention center in the US, to protest against the 'inhumane treatment' imposed on undocumented immigrants. This protest took place Monday at a facility in San Ysidro, CA,

THEIR MISSION STATEMENT We are grannies on a mission. We are outraged by the cruel and inhumane way our government is treating immigrant children and their families who have risked all to find refuge from violence and oppression We demand: We will not be quiet while little ones are crying alone without the love of a parent to soothe them. We will not remain idle while tent cities are built to indefinitely detain families seeking safe haven in our country. Our government and our institutions do not have dominion over our morality. We the people will be the moral compass of our country and we will not rest until compassion and decency are restored.We are traveling to McAllen, Texas, with a message of basic human decency with the hope that you will join us. We urge you to join us along the way, to create a caravan from East to West, from North to South, and grow a movement around human decency and plain common sense. Weve been around long enough to know right from wrong. Weve spent our lives caring for others. And we wont stand for this. You've donated. You've made calls. You've rallied. Now join the grannies! Advertisement

The final destination was the border town of McAllen, Texas, where one of the many immigration detention centers is holding families separated by Trump's strict anti-immigration policies.

'At some point the cruelty, the insensibility against kids and families has got to stop', said Carolina Clary, one of the many grandmothers that participated in the protests during an interview with Univision.

'It has got to stop. Someone needs to protest.'

The caravan gained steam during its planned six-day drive, with a wide range of rallies held in different towns along the way to McAllen, site of the country's largest immigration facility where for months kids and parents have been separated in cages similar to those that would keep a pair of WWE wrestlers locked up in.

By Monday, the grassroots campaign billed '24 Hours of Action and Service' was underway as caravans that started out in Portland; Atlanta; Dallas; Madison, WI and Tallahassee, Fla., marked their territories in hopes of changing the minds of those in Washington.

Early in the day a small group representing those tired with Trumps separation policies stopped by a detention center in Dilley, where an infant had been held before dying days after their release, according to recent reports.

However, their request to enter the Dilley Detention Center were instantly rebuffed and threatened with arrest if they wouldn't leave the area.

Members of 'Grannies Respond', an advocacy group demanding the unity of undocumented families separated by immigration officials under direct orders from President Trump.

A total of six caravans kick-started Monday's volunteer service in McAllen, TX;, site of the country's largest detention center that has separated undocumented children from their parents.

Among the many community activities that 'Grannies Respond' held featured assisting the recently released undocumented immigrants under ICE's detention.

They were led to a site ran by the Catholic Charities where they would bathe, pickup a backpack containing goods, food and counseling before being taken to bus stations.

Before the volunteers headed out back to their homes, the group met at a center where they expanded on how they could continue their support for the undocumented that have been locked up awaiting answers and actions from the federal government.

'The excitement about going home is we're carrying the message to our communities,' said a woman who identified herself as Beth. 'What we need to do is keep shinning like on this problem.'
Sidique Kamara (pictured) was stabbed to death in Camberwell on August 1

Kenneth Umezie, 31, has been charged with the murder of Sidique Kamara, who was also known as Moscow17 rapper Incognito.

Mr Umezie from Camberwell, south London, will appear in custody at Bromley Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, Scotland Yard said.

Mr Kamara, 23, was stabbed to death in Warham Street, Camberwell, on the evening of August 1.

Three other teenagers, aged 16, 18 and 19, who were arrested in connection with the incident have been released under investigation.

Another member of the Moscow17 collective, 17-year-old Rhyhiem Ainsworth Barton, was found fatally shot on the same street in May.

The group's tracks have had hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube and include lyrics hostile to long-running rivals Zone 2, from Peckham.

Friends and loved ones left tributes at the scene in south London where rapper Incognito was stabbed to death last week

Police are pictured at the scene of the stabbing in south London. Scotland Yard announced today the arrest of Kenneth Umezie

Earlier this year, Mr Kamara and another member of Moscow17 were cleared at the Old Bailey of murdering teenager Abdirahman Mohamed, a brother of a member of Zone 2.

This weekend, confectionery giant Mars pulled its advertising from YouTube after one of its brands was shown alongside drill rap videos linked to violent crime in the capital.
The Trump administration said Tuesday that it will soon impose 25 per cent tariffs on $16 billion in Chinese imports, dramatically expanding the White House's trade war.

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative said in a statement that on August 23 customs officials will begin collecting the border taxes on a list of 279 products.

The list of affected imports is heavy on industrial imports like steam turbines and iron girders, and also includes semiconductors.

President Donald Trump has defended his use of tariffs that have inflamed tensions with China and Europe, and he upped the ante again Tuesday on Beijing

Chinese President Xi Jinping has played a game of international commerce ping-pong with Trump, returning every serve with a punitive tariff announcement of his own

Trump and his trade rep, Andy Lighthizer, slapped 25 per cent tariffs on $34 billion in Chinese products just one month ago.

China retaliated with its own tranche of anti-U.S. duties.

The larger battle to come could see Trump levying similar tariffs on a massive portion of China's sales into the United States, up to an additional $200 billion in products.

Lighthizer's office said Tuesday that its list of 284 proposed tariff targets published June 15 was pared down only by five.

Trump has been openly hostile to China's attitudes toward intellectual property and its policy of subsidizing some industries in order to squeeze other nations out of global markets.

The administration also has charged Beijing with engaging in commercial cyber warfare and theft whose goal is to unseat the U.S. as the world's preeminent technological superpower.

'Tax them,' Trump said Sunday of countries like China that systematically try to undercut U.S. manufacturers

Trump and Xi have gone from buddies to adversaries as their oscillating tit-for-tat trade war deepens

Saturday night during a raucous rally in central Ohio, the president told an audience of diehard supporters that past administrations had 'really rebuilt China' with weak trade policies, 'and its time that we rebuild our own country now.'

Playing hardball with China and Europe is 'my thing,' he declared, while boasting that the Chinese stock market has lost 27 per cent of its value since he began putting pressure on Beijing.

Trump tweeted Sunday morning that his tariffs 'are working big time.'

'Every country on earth wants to take wealth out of the U.S., always to our detriment. I say, as they come, Tax them. If they dont want to be taxed, let them make or build the product in the U.S.'
Republican strategist Karl Rove is warning President Donald Trump to 'tone down' his attacks on the media, saying he sounds like Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin and it could cost the GOP votes in November.

'I think this is over the top,' Rove said Monday on Fox News Channel. 'Every president has problems with the media. I was in the White House for seven years - I didn't like the coverage they gave George W. Bush, particularly the liberal New York Times.'

Rove was the mastermind behind George W. Bush's election as president and served as a White House adviser.

GOP strategist Karl Rove said President Trump's comments on the media are over the top

Rove warned President Trump he could cost Republicans votes this November

He also said Trump's characterization of the press as 'enemy of the people' reminds him of Soviet Russia.

'Calling them the enemy of the people that just grates on me. I grew up during the time of the Cold War. That is a phrase that was used by Stalin against the enemies of the communist regime. I think the president would be well advised to tone down the rhetoric,' he said.

Rove added that kind of rhetoric won't help Republicans win in the November midterms.

'If the media does something that is wrong, your audience is not the media and it is not the hard core base that loves you,' he said.

'To win the election this fall he has to win the people who are up for grabs in this election,' he added.

Trump has ramped up his attacks on the 'fake news media,' tweeting Sunday that the press can 'cause great division and mistrust' and they can bring about 'war.'

The president has frequently referred to the media as the 'enemy of the people', much to the dismay of many who feel he is endangering journalists' lives.

His most recent attack comes less than two months after five journalists were killed at the Capital Gazette newspaper in Annapolis, Maryland.

Earlier this week, Ivanka Trump expressed disagreement with her father's use of the phrase 'enemy of the people'.

'I have certainly received my fair share of reporting on me personally that I know not to be fully accurate,' Ivanka said on Thursday.

'So I have some sensitivity around why people have concerns and gripe, especially when they sort of feel targeted.'

'But no, I do not feel that the media is the enemy of the people.'

Trump later claimed on Twitter that he does not believe the 'media' is the 'enemy of the people', but rather the publications and networks that he has long claimed are 'fake news'.

Rove said: 'Calling them the enemy of the people that just grates on me. I grew up during the time of the Cold War. That is a phrase that was used by Stalin'

Ivanka Trump also disagreed with her father's characterization of the press

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders did not denounce Trump's remarks

Just hours after Ivanka's remarks, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders visibly upset journalists during a briefing when she complained about the physical dangers she has faced in her job.

Sanders spoke of her unprecedented need for Secret Service protection, and blamed the reporters in the room for causing it.

When a CNN correspondent asked Sanders if she would renounce Trump's use of the phrase 'enemy of the people' as his daughter did, she merely deflected the question.
The arson attack that killed seven-year-old Joel Urhie is likely to increase pressure on police to get a grip on the violent crimewave engulfing the UK.

Last month, a Daily Mail poll revealed that 57 per cent of people fear police officers have surrendered control of our neighbourhoods and that criminals have no fear of being caught.

The blaze comes less than three weeks after acid was thrown over a three-year-old baby in a supermarket in Worcester.

Seven year old Joel Urhie (pictured above) died in the house in Adolphus Street, Deptford,in an arson attack

The arson attack will also pile pressure on Metropolitan Police commissioner Cressida Dick, who has seen a surge in gun and knife violence under her watch since the start of the year.

Joels death is the latest in over 90 murders that have taken place in London.

Police figures show there were 400 acid attacks in 2016 and 700 in 2017.

The latest numbers are expected to confirm there were 800 over the past 12 months.

In June, Miss Dick said the Met Police would be naive to think cuts to rank-and-file officers failed to have an impact on the rising levels of violent crime.

Last month, official crime figures revealed the number of murder and manslaughter cases in England and Wales now stand at their highest level since 2008.

Killings have increased by 12 per cent  up from 627 last year to 701  while knife offences have surged by 16 per cent, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Police have registered 40,147 crimes involving a knife or sharp instrument in the year to March.

The Daily Mails poll of 2,000 adults  conducted by Comres and We The People  also reveals that a quarter of the population dont feel safe at night in their local area.

It suggested that one of the biggest factors behind the recent surge in lawlessness is a lack of bobbies on the beat.

Around 60 per cent of the public said that they hadnt seen a police officer in their street in the past year.
Barack and Michelle Obama nearly shut down an entire street on Monday as the former president and first lady dined at a restaurant on Martha's Vineyard.

Obama, who celebrated his 57th birthday over the weekend, was joined by his wife and a dozen friends at The Cardboard Box restaurant in Oak Bluffs.

Video posted by the restaurant's owner Ben DeForest shows a large swarm of people standing outside the eatery as Barack and Michelle made their ways to their cars. Many of the people chanted 'Obama!' as he gave a quick wave to the crowd.

'What a great night! It is always an honor to serve the Obama's and friends, but it was especially exciting to have our new restaurant be on their radar, and their first dining stop of the summer here on Martha's Vineyard!' DeForest wrote.

Barack Obama is pictured outside the Cardboard Box restaurant on Martha's Vineyard on Monday night

Obama waved to the crowd as they screamed and chanted his name. The owner said he was there with wife, Michelle, and about a dozen friends

A large crowd gathered outside the restaurant as the former president and first lady made their way to their car

'Circuit Ave hasn't looked this full in YEARS! There's something very special about that energy.'

DeForest told the Boston Globe that the Obamas often frequented his other restaurant, the Red Cat Kitchen, during their trips to Martha's Vineyard.

'They could've gone to the Red Cat, where they know the experience, where they know what to expect,' DeForest said. 'It's a very private experience over there. It's quiet. It's contained.'

He said as son as word got out that the Obamas were at The Cardboard Box swarms of people lined the streets hoping to get a glimpse of the former president and first lady.

A large crowd gathered outside of The Cardboard Box restaurant on Martha's Vineyard on Monday night as the Obamas had dinner

Obama is pictured leaving the restaurant on Monday. The owner said the restaurant is new and he's glad the Obamas and their friends decided to check it out

'It shut the town down,' DeForest said. 'It was really special. It was a testament to the power and the reverence in which people hold them. It was like The Beatles were in here in the early '60s.'

According to The Martha Vineyard's Times, the Obamas arrived on Saturday and will most likely stay for much of August.
Over five decades after 300 pupils and staff at an Australian school witnessed unidentified flying objects landing in a field, rare audio reveals new information about the spooky incident.

Back in 1966, papers carried stories about the largest mass UFO sightings in Australia after reports of at least one flying saucer near Westall High School in Clayton, a suburb in Melbourne, Victoria.

Children and staff were said to have seen a 'round humped object with a flat base being circled by what appeared to be light aircraft'.

It was described as grey or silver-grey in colour, but it was not known whether the UFO appeared high or low in the sky, or for how long it was seen by those at the school, according to reports at the time.

Photograph of the supposed Westall UFO encounter where more than 300 students and teachers at two Victorian state schools allegedly witnessed an unexplained flying object which descended into a nearby open wild grass field, 1966

There was also confusion over whether there was just one UFO or several, as some people described seeing three saucer-like objects.

One newspaper report in the 1960s said that several children who saw the flying saucer 'collapsed and became ill with fright'.

The Victorian Flying Saucer Research Society took the mystery so seriously that it paid for an advertisement in a local paper, calling for eyewitnesses to give descriptions of the incident.

And after decades of speculation, an intriguing piece of audio has re-surfaced  featuring an interview conducted by an American physicist, Dr James E. McDonald, who was known for his study of UFOs, according to Fox News.

He spoke with a science teacher from Westall school, Andrew Greenwood, who saw the incident.

McDonald's description of this interview has helped provide a rare insight into the mysterious event, from someone who was an adult at the time.

He recorded himself describing their meeting and the unusual details the teacher gave about his experience.

'Greenwood told me the UFO was first brought to his attention by a hysterical child who ran into his classroom and told him there's a flying saucer outside,' McDonald said.

'He thought this child had become deranged or something so he didn't take any notice, but when the child insisted that this object was in the sky he decided to go out and have a look for himself.'

Upon venturing outside, he saw a group of pupils looking toward the northeast area of the school grounds and as he approached them, he claims he saw a UFO hovering close to the powerline.

Greenwood described it during the interview as a round, silver object about the size of a car with a metal rod sticking up in the air.

According to the physicist, the teacher then told him five planes came and surrounded the object as more people began gathering to watch the scene before them.

'He called it the most amazing flying he had ever seen in his life,' McDonald added.

'The planes were doing everything possible to approach the object and he said how they all avoided collision he will never know.

'Every time they got too close to the object it would slowly accelerate, then rapidly accelerate and then move away from them and stop. Then they would take off after it again and the same thing would happen.'

This game of 'cat and mouse' reportedly went on for about 20 minutes and by this time Greenwood said that 350 children and staff were watching on.

Suddenly the UFO flew away and vanished seconds before the headmaster came out and ushered everyone back to class.

Over the decades there have been reports that the government tried to cover up the incident and prevent witnesses from talking about it, but the physicist claimed it was the headmaster who first tried to squash discussion of the incident.

'He gave the school a lecture and told the children they would be severely punished if they talked about this matter and told the staff they could lose their jobs if they mentioned it at all,' McDonald explained.

The teacher claimed the headmaster was so 'scared' and 'disturbed' by the incident that he had refused to come outside until the object was gone.

'When the Royal Australian Airforce contacted the headmaster he told them to "go and jump in a lake",' McDonald said.

Several witnesses claimed that men in black suits visited them and warned them against speaking about the landing.

McDonald said that at the time of seeing the UFO, Greenwood 'was a complete skeptic himself. He had never even considered the possibility of their existence.

'When he asked the physical education teacher to describe what she had seen herself so that he could compare it with his own observation, she just wouldn't say anything.'

A newspaper report around the time described the sighting as important, particularly as circular patches were found where the grass had been flattened, adding to the mystery.
A mother grieving the death of her seven-year-old autistic boy killed in a 'gang war' arson attack told her eldest son 'you have killed Joel', a family member says.

Joel Urhie's older sibling Sam, 21, was heard screaming 'it should have been me' as he visited his mother Iroroefe Urhie and 19-year-old sister Sarah in hospital.

Neighbours claimed that Sam was known to police and had previously lived at the same house with his family before going to prison.

Joel Urhie (pictured) was found dead inside the burnt-out shell of his family home in Deptford, south-east London

Today a cousin of Joel's father, John, told The Sun Online: 'The mum blamed him. She told him straight away in the hospital "you have killed Joel".'

Detectives are investigating the possibility that the arsonists were targeting Sam when they torched the family home in Deptford, south-east London.

Joel's mother and sister jumped 15ft to safety from their home in Deptford but Joel was unable to escape the flames after a killer arsonist set his home ablaze.

One neighbour, Mcklushia Myles, a 36-year-old carpenter, said Sam had got into trouble 'once or twice' in the past over knife crime.

Police conduct house-to-house enquiries today on the street where seven-year-old Joel Urhie died in a house fire

A fingertip search was also carried out this afternoon, with police working on the assumption that the killing may have been gang related

This morning, it was revealed that police have secured CCTV from opposite the home which may have caught the arsonists carrying out their plan

The 21-year-old is understood to have stayed in the family home recently for a brief period, though he was not living there at the time of the attack.

This morning, it was revealed that police have secured CCTV from opposite the home which may have caught the arsonists carrying out their plan.

A man who lives opposite, Tien Thuan Nguyen, has cameras outside the front and back of his flat.

The 56-year-old said: 'I've got a camera. Police came and took the footage, but I haven't seen what is on it. They said they will come back tomorrow.

'I got the cameras because of children throwing balls and breaking the windows.'

Police are probing whether Joel's home was targeted in a gang-related revenge attack against his brother.

Neighbour and close family friend Grace Gbenedio, 56, went to the hospital with his brother Sam, following the tragedy.

She said: 'While we were in the car he was just shouting, 'Why him?'

'Then when we were at the hospital he said, 'Oh, why not me? It should have been me. Why not me to die?' '

A post mortem is due to take place later today to determine the exact cause of Joel's death.

The area around the 1980s three-bed home has been sealed off as investigators and forensics officers begin the work of sifting through the house for any possible clues

Grief-stricken neighbours have blamed police cuts for failing to control 'lawless London'.

Harry Ray Valentine, 58, from Lewisham, a caretaker at Maple house estate, said: 'It's lawless London. This has happened because of budget cuts.

'There's fewer police patrolling our streets than ever before - and so innocent lives are being taken. There's a lot of sadness - but also anger.'

One neighbour and friend who did not want to be named said: 'The police aren't doing anything to stop these crimes.

'They aren't tackling these gangs and more and more kids are going to die because of it.

'When are they going to realise it's not stopping? He was just an innocent little boy.'

Another said: 'This area is known to be full of crime. There's fights and people selling drugs.

'But in 20 years of living here I've never seen anything like this. We are all in shock. It shows how bad things are.'

Detective Superintendent Jane Corrigan said arson is suspected.

A mother screamed 'my son's in there!' as a seven-year-old boy died in a 'suspicious' house fire which broke out in the middle of the night

Close family friend Grace Gbenedio, 56, rushed outside when her as the blaze engulfed the family home opposite her flat

'It is difficult to imagine a seven-year-old is the motive for the attack,' she said. 'He lost his life in what should have been the safest place for him, his home.

'We believe the fire was started deliberately but at this stage I am unable to go into any further detail due to operational reasons.

'We have no idea what the motive for this attack was. We've got no suspects.'

Joel's father, who had moved out of the house around five years ago, spoke of his pain on losing his 'sweet and intelligent' son.

Outside the gutted house in Deptford, south London, John Urhie, 54, said: 'He was a very lovely boy who was just loving life. It's a terrible loss.'

He said that Joel's 49-year-old mother Iroroefe Urhie  a nurse who is known as Sophie  was recovering in hospital with their daughter Sarah.

Grace Gbenedio, 56 and a close family friend, drove with Sam to the hospital where his mother was being treated.

She said: 'He was just shouting 'I want to see my brother and I want to see my mum', and he was 'why, why, why, why him?'

'When we were at the hospital he said 'Oh, why not me? It could have been me. Why not me to die?'

Eyewitnesses revealed how a blood-soaked woman was shouting for help after jumping from the first floor window to escape the blaze

A video recorded on the night shows the fire raging shortly before the arrival of firefighters

Commenting on speculation that the attack might have been connected to Joel's 21 year old brother Samuel, a friend of the family said 'it would be a real shame' if this was true.

Alex Hope, 29, who grew up in Adolphus Street, said: 'I knew him growing up..

'He was a nice kid, used to play football with everyone.

'I haven't seen him for years though so I've no idea what he's up to, whether he's working or at University.'

When asked whether it was possible Samuel was the target, he said: 'It would really surprise me if that's the case.

'He was a very pleasant kid.If that's the case it would be a real shame. Their mother such a lovely person.'

Another family friend yesterday said Mrs Urhie was a devoted mother to Joel, who was autistic and a special needs pupil at the local primary school.

Her daughter Sarah was home from university for the summer holidays.

A murder probe has now been launched as police hunt for a suspected arsonist, with a neighbour claiming that a fight took place outside the home hours earlier

Speaking outside the burnt remains of the house today, John Urhie (pictured) paid tribute to his son and spoke of the family's heartbreak

Neighbours told how they raced out to find 'all hell was breaking loose' as a 'curtain' of fire tore through the house at 3.25am yesterday.

They said Mrs Urhie and her daughter had smashed their way through a first-floor window to escape the inferno.

Mrs Gbenedio said: 'The mum collapsed on my lap. She was in a bad state. Her head was bleeding, her head was full of blood. She couldn't stand.

'She collapsed on me when a fireball  the last blast of the window  blew out the house.

'She was crying for her son. Saying 'help my son, he's inside.' My daughter was holding Sarah. She was saying 'my brother, my brother, he's in there'.'

Fernando Rios, a 21-year-old student, said he went around the back of the house to try to find a way in.

'I thought I could hear banging upstairs, like someone kicking a door,' he added. 'But the flames were too big, they were engulfing the house.'

Clive Stagg, 64, said: 'I have never seen anything like it. The whole house was ablaze.

'You couldn't even get near it, even if you had tried.' Six fire engines and 35 firemen raced to the scene and took around an hour and a half to contain the blaze. Several neighbouring properties had to be evacuated.

Paying further tribute to his son, Mr Urhie, who is self-employed, said: 'He played with everyone around here. He was a very nice looking boy. It's terrible, the pain we can never forget.'

Neighbours revealed how the boy's blood-soaked mother Efe was forced to smash open a window (pictured) on the first floor before jumping to safety with her daughter Sarah, 19

He had been supposed to see his son on Monday but did not because Joel's mother wanted to take him out, he said.

Mr Urhie said he was called by police at around 4am and told there had been a fire.

He said: 'When I came, the first thing I saw was my daughter inside the ambulance. They said 'Joel's dead'  and there's nothing I can do about it.'

Kayla McClellan, 23, who lives next door to the torched property, said: 'I just woke up to screaming and when we opened the door a wall of fire came through the front and we immediately closed it and went out through the back.'

Next-door neighbour Andre Pavanello, 21, said: 'As I came out I heard screaming and the front of the window smashed.

'I think they had to smash the window to get out and they had to jump out because the fire was getting too big.'

A London Fire Brigade spokesman said the ground floor of the home had been badly damaged by the blaze, as well as the whole of the first floor.

They said: 'Two women jumped from first-floor level shortly before the first firefighters arrived at scene.

'They were both treated at the scene by firefighters and London Ambulance Service crews.'
The Christian parents of a 10-month-old girl who died of malnutrition and dehydration in western Michigan after they allegedly refused to get medical help for religious reasons face life in jail.

Seth Welch and Tatiana Fusari, both 27, were charged with felony murder and first-degree child abuse on Monday over the death of their daughter, Mary, on Thursday.

In incredible footage filmed in a Kent County court, Welch stared at the judge with his mouth wide open as she read out the charges, while Fusari burst into tears.

Seth Welch and Tatiana Fusari, both 27, were charged with felony murder and first-degree child abuse on Monday over the death of their daughter, Mary, on Thursday. Welch stared at the with his mouth wide open as she read out the charges, while Fusari burst into tears

First responders found Mary (pictured in an undated Facebook photo) with sunken eyes and cheeks after Welch called 911 to say he had found the child dead in her crib

First responders found Mary with sunken eyes and cheeks after Welch called 911 to say he had found the child dead in her crib. An autopsy on Friday ruled her cause of death as malnutrition and dehydration due to neglect by adult caregivers.

Welch and Fusari, who also shares her husband's surname, were brought in for questioning where they admitted to noticing their daughter was skinny and underweight as early as a month before her death.

The parents, from Cedar Springs, did not seek medical help 'for fear of having Child Protective Services called, lack of faith and trust in medical services and religious reasons', according to court documents.

Welch has posted about CPS, a distrust of doctors and his religious beliefs on Facebook in often rambling videos. He spoke in one about refusing to get his children vaccinated because 'God is sovereign over disease'.

Fusari and Welch (left and right) were brought in for questioning where they admitted to noticing their daughter was skinny and underweight as early as a month before her death.

He also dismissed doctors as 'priesthoods of the medical cult'.

Welch posted on Facebook about his child's death on the same day. 'Heart is about shattered right now,' he wrote.

'Woke up to Mary dead in her bed this morning - this evening had our children removed and placed on no contact because Tati and I are the worst parents ever - Thankfully they are with grandma and grandpa.

An autopsy on Friday ruled Mary's cause of death as malnutrition and dehydration due to neglect by adult caregivers. She is pictured in an undated Facebook photo

'Just numb inside right now. And I'm really enjoying the loving embrace of an isolation cell from the cops and government employees who keep assuring me "they are only here to help."'

Welch advertised his beliefs on hand-painted signs nailed to trees and on the fence out front on his home. 'Repent. Believe. Obey,' one message painted in white read, according to WOOD-TV.

He wrote on Facebook that someone called officials about him when he initially refused to get his oldest daughter vaccinated.

'It didn't seem smart that you would be saving people who weren't the fittest,' he said in a video. 'If evolution believes in survival of the fittest, why are we vaccinating everybody? Shouldn't we just let the weak die off and let the strong survive?'

His two other children, including Mary, were not vaccinated.

Welch and Fusari have two older children together, ages 2 and 4.

Fusari and Welch have two older children together, ages 2 and 4. Child Protective Services filed on Monday a neglect case against the parents involving their two eldest children

Child Protective Services filed on Monday a neglect case against the parents involving their two eldest children. Fusari is also believed to be pregnant with a fourth child.

The parents are being held without bond and court records do not list lawyers who can speak on their behalf.

The couple could face life in prison without parole, if convicted of felony murder. They are back in court on August 20.
A transgender woman who tried to murder three strangers with an axe had a privileged upbringing and was a high achiever in school.

Evie Amati's life took a downward spiral after having gender reassignment surgery, culminating in the horrific attack at a Sydney convenience store in January 2017.

Named Karl as a child by her well-off trade union representative parents, the 26-year-old topped Western Australia in English in 2009.

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A transgender woman who tried to murder three people with an axe had a privileged upbringing and was a high achiever in school (pictured is Evie Amati after gender reassignment surgery)

Evie Amati's life took a downward spiral after having gender reassignment surgery, culminating in the horrific attack (pictured) at a Sydney convenience store in January 2017

She graduated from Perth's progressive Shenton College in the top one per cent in the state, and moved to Sydney for university, News.com.au reported.

Still known as Karl at the time, Amati landed a union job thanks to family connections while studying sociology and US politics at the University of Sydney.

While at university Amati became involved in student activism, joining radical far-left group Sydney Resistance and writing for Green Left Weekly.

She also played drums in a punk band she formed in 2011, Everything I Own is Broken, and performed on stage as a woman in 2013 and 2014.

Amati first broached the idea of a gender transition on social media in 2012, and flew to Thailand in 2014 with family and friends for reassignment surgery.

On her return to Australia she began taking recreational drugs to deal with the pain, her defence lawyer Charles Waterstreet told a Sydney court last week.

Still known as Karl at the time, Amati (pictured, left, as Karl, right, after transition) landed a union job thanks to family connections

Amati (pictured) graduated from Perth's progressive Shenton College in the top one per cent in the state, and moved to Sydney for university

Mr Waterstreet said his client's state of mind 'deteriorated' in 2015 after a break-up and she became suicidal.

She talked of wanting to jump in front of trains, and 'twisting people's necks on the bus'.

The court heard Amati began to have violent fantasies, and in 2016 bought a long-handled axe which she used to destroy an old sofa.

After a Tinder date on January 6 during which she took a capsule of the drug MDA, believing it was MDMA, she sent several chilling messages to her new acquaintance.

The court heard Amati began to have violent fantasies, and in 2016 bought a long-handled axe which she used to destroy an old sofa (pictured is the 2017 attack)

Hours later, after changing her Facebook status to read 'Humans are only able to destroy to hate so that is what I shall do,' Amati (pictured) left home in a murderous rage

Having ended the date because she believed the woman found her unattractive because she was transgender, Amati told her 'some people deserve to die'.

'One day I will kill a lot of people and it will be your fault', she told her date, and later called her a 'psychopath'.

Hours later, after changing her Facebook status to read 'Humans are only able to destroy to hate so that is what I shall do', Amati left home in a murderous rage.

Holding the axe and with a knife in her pocket, Amati walked to a 7-Eleven store in Enmore in Sydney's inner west while listening to her favourite rap song.

Pictured is axe attack victim Sharon Hacker, who Evie Amati tried to kill at a Sydney convenience store

Amati pleaded not guilty to attacking Benjamin Rimmer (pictured being treated after the attack), Sharon Hacker and Shane Redwood in the early hours of January 7, 2017

She then attempted to hack two other customers to death with the axe before trying to kill a homeless man outside moments later.

Amati pleaded not guilty to attacking Benjamin Rimmer, Sharon Hacker and Shane Redwood in the early hours of January 7, 2017.

Mr Rimmer feared he would bleed to death after being struck in the face, and Ms Hacker lost 25kg afterwards and continues to suffer nerve pain.

Mr Waterstreet argued drug use and dating rejections combined with her hormonal drugs and anti-depressants to trigger mental illness.

However, the New South Wales District Court rejected the mental illness defence and found her guilty of all three charges laid against her.

Amati will be sentenced on September 12.
Paul Manafort sent his former deputy an email asking him to persuade Donald Trump to appoint his banker as secretary of the army, the lobbyist's former deputy Rick Gates revealed Tuesday.

For the first time since Manafort's fraud trial began last week, prosecutors drew a connection between Manafort's allegedly illicit financial dealings and the Trump campaign - saying he asked for a job for

Manafort was Trump's campaign chairman for four months until August 2016 and Gates was his deputy.

But after Manafort was ousted, Gates remained part of the Trump campaign, and after Trump won the election, he was part of the inauguration committee.

The court was shown an email Manafort sent Gates on November 24, 2016 which said: 'We need to discuss Steve Calk for Sec of Army. I hear the list is being considered this weekend.' It was signed: 'P.'

The message was followed the next month by Manafort emailing just before Christmas to ask for Calk and his son to get tickets to the inauguration.

Intervention: Rick Gates says that Paul Manafort asked him to persuade Donald Trump to make Steve Calk secretary of the army - the first time Trump and his campaign have been in the trial. Trump had previously met Calk

Face off: Manafort and Gates faced each other across the courtroom on Tuesday as the former deputy turned prosecution witness testified at length

The Calks were named in a list attached to the email of people he wanted to get tickets. The other names were not read out in court.

Calk did not get the role as secretary of the army, a role whose holder reports to the defense secretary but who is subject to Senate confirmation.

Calk is an Army veteran who founded his bank when he left his commission as a combat helicopter pilot.

He had previously been an economic adviser to the Trump campaign before the election and posted photographs with the then candidate and other senior Republicans.

In July two of his bank's employees were given immunity to give evidence at Manafort's trial.

Manafort's charges include falsifying details used to borrow from Federal Savings Bank.

During legal discussion in July ahead of the trial, prosecutors alleged that Calk knew the loan was basd on inaccurate information, Talking Points Memo reported.

Calk has previously said that the bank's loans to the lobbyist were standard. He is not listed as a witness in the case.

In total Manafort borrowed $16 million from the bank, starting in December 2016, after the initial email to his former deputy.

Gates also testified that in 2016 Manafort had difficulty paying for his annual New York Yankees season passes.

Manafort had allegedly charged the four passes  which cost around $200,000  to a credit card that he was unable to pay.

According to Gates, Manafort asked him to write a letter to the Yankees saying that he had borrowed Manafort's credit card and taking responsibility for the purchase. Gates did as Manafort requested, he told the court, despite knowing that Manafort had bought the tickets himself.

Gates, 46, who has been cooperating with the government since pleading guilty to obstruction of justice and conspiracy earlier this year, continued his second day of testimony at the former Trump campaign chairman's tax and bank fraud trial on Tuesday.

He had told the jury on Monday that the government had agreed not to oppose an application for probation even though the crimes he admitted to carry sentences of up to ten years.

But on Tuesday his prosecution evidence ended and he was savaged by Manafort's attorneys.

During a testy afternoon, Gates admitted to using offshore bank accounts to pay for a secret extramarital affair, including providing a London apartment for his mistress and luxury trips through Europe.

Manafort's defense attorneys accused Gates of embezzling money from the former Trump campaign chairman to fund his 'secret life' and overseas mistress during an explosive exchange at the trial on Tuesday.

Gates also told the court he might have stolen money from the Trump inauguration committee while he was a staffer there after the election.

Gates, a 46-year-old married father of four and the government's key witness in the case, appeared to wither under cross examination from Manafort's attorneys, twitching and fumbling with his words when questioned about what the defense described as his 'secret life.'

'I acknowledge I had a period of time when I had another relationship,' admitted Gates. The woman was not named. He added: 'There is a period of time over 10 years ago when I had a relationship, yes.'

Happier times: Rick Gates (left) was at Paul Manafort side for more than a decade, including acting as his deputy when Manafort chaired Donald Trump's campaign. Both men were at the Cleveland Republican National Convention where Trump became the party's candidate

He acknowledged that as part of this relationship he purchased a 'flat in London' and flights to Ukraine, using money from foreign accounts that the defense says Gates stole from Manafort.

Gates acknowledged he also paid for 'fancy hotels' and 'trips to Europe' with around $2.5 million the defense claimed he embezzled.

He said he also used money to travel to Las Vegas for an unrelated work meeting with a movie producer, which he admitted could be considered embezzlement.

Manafort's defense team also questioned Gates about a plea deal he reached with the government, which required his to cooperate with prosecutors on the Manafort case in exchange for lenient sentencing guidelines and a reduction in criminal charges against him.

Gates acknowledged he had to plead guilty to false statements after lying during a February interview with federal investigators.

He said 'there's no question I struggled to get all the information out.'

He struggled under cross-examination to remember exactly what he had admitted to during interviews with investigators.

At one point, Downing asked him, 'Have they confronted you with so many lies that you can't even remember them?'

Manafort's attorney Kevin Downing asked Gates if he had embezzled money from the Trump inauguration committee while he was working there in late 2016.

'It's possible,' said Gates.

Gates also said he did not tell the Office of Special Counsel that he filed unauthorized expenses to the inauguration committee.

Gates, who was Manafort's deputy at the political consulting company DMP International, also appeared to get confused when pressed on how much money he expensed from the company's bank accounts without permission from Manafort.

When presented with a list of $3 million in his expenses by the defense, Gates initially told the court that some of the charges were authorized. He also admitted to previously telling investigators that six transfers, amounting to $450,000, were approved by Manafort.

But when the defense asked him which charges from the list were authorized, Gates was unable to identify them.

The cross examination was contentious from the beginning, with Downing asking Gates, 'When did you begin providing false and misleading information to the Office of Special Counsel?'

Gates responded that he did not provide false information. The defense asked why he had pleaded guilty to lying to investigators.

'Under the one instance I did [provide false information],' replied Gates. 'Up until that point I had not.'

Gates bristled at the claim from Manafort's attorneys that he was living a 'secret life,' arguing that his wife is aware of the affair.

'It's not a secret life on account of my wife is aware of it,' he said.

He also told the court that he has taken responsibility for his actions by cooperating with prosecutors, and said he committed crimes during a 'difficult time' in his life.

'I was living beyond my means,' he said. 'It was a difficult timeI regret it clearly and I'm taking responsibility for it.'

During the cross examination, Gates sparred with Manafort's attorney about whether to describe his actions as 'embezzlement.'

'Why won't you say embezzlement?' demanded Downing, as Gates continued to refer to 'unauthorized' expenses he took from the company and asked 'what difference' his word choice made.

Under pressure from the defense Gates conceded, 'It was embezzlement from Mr. Manafort.'

Downing also prodded Gates about the lack of written records showing that Manafort ordered Gates to commit financial crimes on his behalf.

Gates said Manafort gave him most of these orders in verbal conversations in order to avoid a paper trail.

'After all the lies you toldyou expect the jury to believe you?' asked Downing.

Gates responded that he has taken responsibility for his actions, adding that Manafort has declined to do so.

'I'm here to tell the truth,' said Gates. 'I'm here to take responsibility for my actions. Mr. Manafort has the same path.'

Judge T.S. Ellis, who has been tough on the prosecution throughout the case, also interrupted Gates's testimony after Gates claimed Manafort closely monitored the money coming in and out of the company's offshore bank accounts.

'[Manafort] didn't know the amount of money you stole from him, did he?' asked the judge. 'So he didn't keep that close an eye on it.'

But the questioning prompted a dramatic halt to the trial when Downing asked Gates whether special counsel Robert Mueller's investigators had interviewed Gates about the campaign.

That prompted an objection from prosecutors and a sidebar conference. After several minutes of discussion away from the jury and the public, U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III called for a 30-minute break, before resuming for the rest of the day without a single mention of the president.

As he left court Downing told reporters: 'Mr. Manafort had a great day in court.'
A top civil servant is jumping ship to Amazon as anger grows over the internet retailers tax affairs.

Liam Maxwell, the national technology adviser, was revealed last night to have accepted a senior role at its web services division.

It comes days after MPs accused it of paying too little tax and accelerating the demise of the High Street.

Maxwells appointment has also raised concerns because the 50-year-old, who earns between up to 162,500, helped draw up rules that allow Amazon to manage government contracts worth millions.

His job at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport involves wooing big technology companies to the UK and encouraging them to forge links with government departments.

Liam Maxwell, the national technology adviser, was revealed last night to have accepted a senior role at Amazon's web services division

But his new role could now see him trying to sell Amazons technology back to Whitehall.

Last night, Labour claimed the revolving door between Whitehall and the private sector was spinning out of control, and the body meant to police such appointments was toothless.

Mr Maxwells appointment is the latest example of the Whitehall merry-go-round in which ministers and officials take lucrative private-sector jobs.

He is thought to be on leave, and has not yet resigned.

A former head of IT at Eton College, he joined the Government as chief technology officer in 2012 with responsibility for overseeing upgrades to its computer systems, and was promoted to national technology adviser in 2016.

Mr Maxwell was also credited with helping to develop a system called G-cloud for Whitehall departments to buy IT services from firms.

Among clients to have bought services such as cloud computing and server hosting from Amazon are the Cabinet Office, the Ministry of Justice, HM Revenue and Customs and the Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs.

It comes days after MPs accused Amazon of paying too little tax and accelerating the demise of the High Street (file photo)

The Government has paid Amazon 19million in five years through G-cloud. But the tech giant has come under fire for reducing its tax liabilities.

In some cases civil servants must seek approval from the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba) to take new jobs  however an Acoba spokesman said Maxwells appointment would need to be cleared by his department.

Civil service rules also ban former public servants from lobbying on behalf of a business they join for at least two years.

Jon Trickett, Labours Shadow Minister for the Cabinet Office, said: The revolving door is spinning out of control. It appears the national technology adviser will move straight from government to Amazon Web Services, a company that could be seen to benefit from the work their new employee was engaged in.

Acoba is totally toothless and needs urgent reform.

A spokesman for Transparency International said: This could tilt the playing field of government policy and procurement towards one company.

Luke Hildyard, of the High Pay Centre, said: What have Amazon hired him for? Its obviously for his expertise in getting money out of the Government.

A government spokesman declined to comment, and Amazon did not return a request for comment last night.
Fears that chemicals in tattoo inks may cause cancer have sparked a call from Brussels for limits, it was reported last night.

A plan to restrict the use of 4,000 chemicals will be brought to a vote among EU member states by the middle of next year.

The UK will not have a say as it will not be a part of the European Union from March 2019.

But if the law is enforced, it would apply here during the 21-month transition period unless Britain diverged from the EU acquis, the body of law made in Brussels.

The proposed restrictions were discussed by The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) committees in June, according to The Guardian.

A plan to restrict the use of 4,000 chemicals in tattoo inks will be brought to a vote among EU member states by the middle of next year (file photo)

They will be examined again next month, before a formal opinion is sent to the European commission by the end of the year.

Mark Blainey, a senior scientific officer at the ECHA, said: The commission then has three months to prepare a draft decision for the EU member states to vote on.

This is likely to happen in mid-2019. The composition of some tattoo inks and permanent makeup raises concerns for public health. The most severe concerns are allergies caused by the substances in the inks and the fact that some of the substances might cause cancer, change DNA or be harmful to human reproduction.

It comes after the ECHA reported last October that it was well known that tattoo inks can and do contain substances of concern such as identified carcinogens and skin sensitisers.

No direct link has been made between the development of cancer and tattoos.

But the report did discover a link between dermatitis and red ink, due to the products high content of mercury sulphide.

Gareth Thomas, a Labour MP and former minister, said: It is difficult to believe the Government arent committed to putting in place clear standards to stop the use of chemicals that could cause cancer in tattoo parlours up and down the country.
BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner, who uses a wheelchair, was left stranded on an empty plane at Heathrow after bungling staff locked themselves inside a cabin

BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner, who uses a wheelchair, was left stranded on an empty plane at Heathrow after bungling staff locked themselves inside a cabin.

The broadcaster was eventually forced to put his wheelchair through a plane window to get off the British Airways flight. He called the incident 'absurd'.

It comes five months after the 57-year-old was left stranded for nearly two hours after Heathrow lost his wheelchair.

Mr Gardner tweeted a picture of the view from the cabin door last night with the caption: 'Ok so this is so absurd it's actually funny. 30 mins after landing @HeathrowAirport I'm once again stuck on an empty plane.

'Hi-lift crew have managed to lock themselves inside their hydraulic cabin and can't get out!

'BA crew being brilliant.'

He then tweeted a second photo of his wheelchair being passed out of a window.

Mr Gardner shared the snap with the caption: 'Ground crew still stuck inside their hi/lift @HeathrowAirport but we got my wchair out thru the window! Thank u to fab crew of BA0873.'

The CEO of Heathrow Airport previously met with Mr Gardner after staff 'lost his wheelchair' and left him stranded on the plane for nearly two hours back in March.

Despite staff being given instructions to take the chair to him from the hold, Mr Gardner said they took it into the terminal and it was not brought back to him for an hour and 40 minutes.

'If you can't walk and your wheelchair's been taken away into the terminal, that is your legs gone,' he said at the time.

'That is your mobility gone. It's a basic human right. I am pretty seething about it.'

The journalist expressed his outrage at the ordeal in a series of tweets posted from the plane after his Ethiopian Airlines flight landed on March 24, 2018.

He later described his meeting with Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye as 'one of the most productive of my life'.

He wrote: 'Just spent (hopefully) 1 of most constructive hrs of my life!

'Heathrow CEO took notes as we went thru disabled passengers' probs at airports.

'We covered hi-lift failing to turn up, wchairs getting taken off into terminal + more thoughtful attitudes needed twds disabled.'

He added he was 'grateful for him listening patiently' about the experiences of disabled flyers at the airport and had identified 'three areas for improvement'.

The journalist lost the use of his legs in 2004 after being shot six times by militants while reporting in Saudi Arabia.
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Concerns have been raised over China's apparent crackdown on Christianity as the ruling Community party continues to intensify its control over religious freedom in the country.

Churches were raided and demolished, Bibles and holy books were confiscated and new laws were established to monitor religious activities in the country's province of Henan, which has one of the largest Christian populations in China.

Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival.

Experts and activists say that as Xi consolidates his power, he is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982.

A demolished house church is seen in the city of Zhengzhou in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically

A painting of the Last Supper is seen next to posters quoting China's constitution on religious freedom in a house church shut down by authorities near the city of Nanyang in central China's Henan province, the country's Christian heartland

A Chinese national flag flies over a church near the city of Pingdingshan in Henan province. Experts say that President Xi Jinping is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since 1982

Guo, a 62-year-old Chinese shopkeeper had waited nearly his entire adult life to see his dream of building a church come true - a brick house with a sunny courtyard and spacious hall with room for 200 believers.

But in March, about a dozen police officers and local officials suddenly showed up at the church on his property and made the frightened congregants disperse.

They ordered that the cross, a painting of the Last Supper and Bible verse calligraphy be taken down. And they demanded that all services stop until each person along with the church itself was registered with the government, said Guo, who gave his last name only from fear of retribution.

Without warning, Guo and his neighbors in central Henan had found themselves on the front lines of an ambitious new effort by the officially atheist ruling Communist Party to dictate - and in some cases displace - the practice of faith in the country.

The crackdown on Christianity is part of a broader push by Xi to 'Sinicise' all the nation's religions by infusing them with 'Chinese characteristics' such as loyalty to the Communist Party. Over the last several months, local governments across the country have shut down hundreds of private Christian 'house churches'. A statement last week from 47 in Beijing alone said they had faced 'unprecedented' harassment since February. A

A pastor, Jin Minri, leads a class on Christian beliefs at the Zion Church in Beijing. After Jin refused authorities' request to install surveillance cameras in his house church, police questioned hundreds of members of the 1,500-person congregation

A slogan outside a church reads 'Educate the believers with excellent Chinese traditional culture' near Pingdingshan, Henan

Chinese calligraphy reads 'All nations belong to the Lord arising to shine' at left and 'Jesus's salvation spreads to the whole world' at right are displayed below a crucifix in a house church shut down by authorities near the city of Nanyang, Henan

A dozen Chinese Protestants interviewed by the Associated Press described gatherings that were raided, interrogations and surveillance, and one pastor said hundreds of his congregants were questioned individually about their faith. Like Guo, the majority requested that their names be partly or fully withheld because they feared punishment from authorities.

'Chinese leaders have always been suspicious of the political challenge or threat that Christianity poses to the Communist regime,' said Xi Lian, a scholar of Christianity in China at Duke University. 'Under Xi, this fear of Western infiltration has intensified and gained a prominence that we haven't seen for a long time.'

Officials once largely tolerated the unregistered Protestant house churches that sprang up independent of the official Christian Council, clamping down on some while allowing others to grow. But this year they have taken a tougher approach that relies partly on 'thought reform' - a phrase for political indoctrination.

Last November, Christian residents of a rural township in south-east Jiangxi province were persuaded to replace posters of the cross and Jesus Christ inside their homes with portraits of Xi, a local official said.

'Through our thought reform, they've voluntarily done it,' Qi Yan, a member of the township party committee, told the AP by phone. 'The move is aimed at Christian families in poverty, and we educated them to believe in science and not in superstition, making them believe in the party.'

Children play near the entrance of a church with a sign reading 'Notice: Minors prohibited from entry' near Lushan, Henan

A slogan reading 'Religious activities should not interfere with social order and order of life' is displayed in Pingdingshan city

Pastor Jin Minri said police previously individually questioned hundreds of members of the 1,500-person congregation

The poster campaign appears to symbolise what analysts see as the underlying force driving the change in the party's approach to religion: the ascendance of Xi.

'Xi is a closet Maoist - he is very anxious about thought control,' said Willy Lam, a Chinese politics expert at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. 'He definitely does not want people to be faithful members of the church, because then people would profess their allegiance to the church rather than to the party, or more exactly, to Xi himself.'

Various state and local officials declined repeated requests to comment. But in 2016, Xi explicitly warned against the perceived foreign threats tied to faith, telling a religion conference: 'We must resolutely guard against overseas infiltrations via religious means.'

Those who resist pay the price.

After Jin Mingri, a prominent pastor who leads Zion Church in Beijing, refused local authorities' request to install surveillance cameras inside his house church, police individually questioned hundreds of members of the 1,500-person congregation, he said.

The congregants faced veiled threats, Jin said, and many were asked to sign a pledge promising to leave Zion, which the government agents called illegal, politically incorrect and a cult. Some people lost their jobs or were evicted from rented apartments because police intimidated their bosses and landlords.

A poster of Chinese President Xi Jinping and part of the slogan which reads 'Actively play the leading role of party building and comprehensively implement the plan for poverty alleviation' near Pingdingshan city in central China's Henan province

A woman hangs laundry near a church in the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province

Xu Shijuan, a 63-year-old Seventh-Day Adventist sings gospel songs at her home in Zhengzhou in Henan province

'A lot of our flock are terrified by the pressure that the government is putting on them,' he said. 'It's painful to think that in our own country's capital, we must pay so dearly just to practice our faith.'

In Zhengzhou, Henan's capital, all that is left of one house church is shattered glass, tangled wires and torn hymnbooks, strewn among the rubble of a knocked-down wall. Pegged to another wall is a single wooden cross, still intact.

The church inside a commercial building had served about 100 believers for years. But in late January, nearly 60 officials from the local religion department and police station appeared without warning. Armed with electric saws, they demolished the church, confiscated Bibles and computers and held a handful of young worshippers - including a 14-year-old girl - at a police station for more than 10 hours, according to a church leader.

Even Protestant churches already registered with the state have not been spared greater restrictions.

When reporters visited five such churches in Henan this June, all bore notices at their entrances stating that minors and party members were not allowed inside. A banner above one church door exhorted members to 'implement the basic direction of the party's religious work.' Another church erected a Chinese flag at the foot of its steps.

A child stands near a slogan that reads 'Communist party members cannot take part in religious activities'

A photo of President Xi Jinping is seen near the Christian poster with the word 'Grace' outside a house church near Nanyang

Locals in Henan province stated concerns of a move by the atheist ruling Community Party to control Christianity

Guo's brick house was largely deserted this summer. Around the door frame, tattered red outlines remained of a scroll that once read 'God's love is as deep as the sea.'

Inside, Guo has refused to remove the cross and other decorations, telling authorities they are within his private property.

Among them, pinned to a wall in the nave, is a bright blue poster that quotes China's constitutional promise of religious freedom.

Elsewhere in China, religious practices and activities remain strictly controlled.

In Xinjiang, a Muslim-majority region in the country's far west, millions of ethnic Uighurs face repression and torture as authorities claimed to rule out potential separatist movements.

Former inmates have told of the horror after being detained in what the Chinese government calls 'political re-education camps', where they were physically and mentally tortured and as punishment, were forced to eat pork and drink alcohol.

A resident walks past a government billboard citing core values of the Communist Party near a church in Pingdingshan

The character for 'love' is displayed at the gated entrance of a church near Pingdingshan city in Henan province

A man drives past the slogans for 'Patriotism and Love for the church, Glorifying God and serving human beings' in Henan

In late July, children in traditionally Buddhist Tibet were required to sign an agreement to 'not take part in any form of religious activity' during the summer holidays, according to the Global Times.

The policy appears to reflect increasingly harsh restrictions on the Himalayan region's traditional Buddhist culture, largely aimed at reducing the influence of the region's spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, who lives in exile in India.

On Tuesday, state media announced that all religious institutions across the country are now required to fly the national flag, in a move to assimilate religions into the socialist society.

The rule is necessary to strengthen awareness of respect for the flag - a symbol of the country's embrace of communism in 1949 - and preserve the flag's dignity, Xinhua claimed, adding that the practice can enhance the public's national consciousness and civic awareness.
The far-Right activist allegedly twice tried to film Asian defendants in sensitive sex cases while the trials were under way, first in Canterbury in May 2017, and in Leeds in May 2018. Both judges said this was contempt of court as it could prevent a fair trial.

What is contempt of court?

Contempt, defined by a complicated series of laws, is activity that undermines a fair trial or defies the orders of a judge. It can bring a two-year jail term.

What was his punishment?

In Leeds, Judge Geoffrey Marson QC ruled that Robinson's contempt was serious and committed him to prison for 13 months.

Robinson, pictured outside London's Old Bailey in October 2018

Why did the crown court judge get it wrong?

The appeal judges said the judge in Leeds got one thing right  he persuaded Robinson to take his film down from Facebook. But after that things went wrong. Judge Marson acted too hastily, they said. Robinson was given no chance to admit or deny contempt. His punishment was handed down within five hours of the contempt of which he was accused. The judge showed 'some muddle'.

What happens now?

The appeal judges said the finding of contempt in Leeds must be quashed, and the jail orders dropped. Robinson's lawyers said contempt charges against him should be abandoned, but the appeal judges said Robinson might have been given a longer jail term than he received, and it was in the public interest for the charges to be properly heard. The case in currently being considered by the Attorney General.
May 25: Robinson is jailed for 13 months for contempt of court after Facebook Live protest outside a trial in Leeds

May 27: Sentence sparks protests in London including outside Downing Street

June 9: Free Tommy Robinson march in Whitehall turns violent with 21 police officers hurt when bottles are hurled

July 18: Robinson launches appeal against his sentence

August 1: Judges order his release and say he must face new hearing

September 27: A new contempt of court case at the Old Bailey is adjourned after Judge Nicholas Hilliard QC asks for written submissions from all parties

October 23: After considering submissions, judge says case is 'too complex' and evidence must be considered by Attorney General

The Attorney General's office confirms it will look at the case and decide whether to stage a High Court hearing
Alex Jones is a controversial radio and podcast host based in Austin, Texas.

The Right-wing conspiracy theorist says his 'InfoWars' shows, which are broadcast on various platforms, reach at least 70million people a week.

Among other claims, he has called the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School mass shooting a hoax. He was sued for defamation by families of some of the children killed in that attack, which left 20 children and six adults dead.

He now admits it occurred, but said his claims were free speech. He has tried to have the lawsuit dismissed.

Jones has also claimed that the 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington were staged by the US government.

While he began broadcasting his shows in 1999, Jones's profile has spread from the far-Right fringe in recent years. While running for US president in 2015, Donald Trump told Jones his reputation was 'amazing.'
Just half a degree increase in global warming levels could have devastating consequences for weather conditions around the globe.

Scientists believe reducing the global warming limit by 0.5C (0.9F)  from 2C (3.6F) to 1.5C (2.7F)  could stop 'extreme precipitation events' worldwide.

Extreme precipitation can trigger a number of devastating natural events, including overflowing rivers, floods with the potential to destroy entire cities, and landslides.

The research reaffirms the importance of the Paris Agreement, a treaty between 175 parties (174 countries and the European Union) that hopes to halt the steady march of global warming.

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A mere half a degree of global warming could have dire consequences for weather conditions around the world. The research reaffirms the importance of the Paris Agreement, a treaty between 175 parties (174 countries and the European Union) that hopes to halt the steady march of global warming

The international agreement aims to stop temperatures from increasing more than 2C (3.6F) in the long term, with every effort being made to limit the increase to 1.5C (2.7F).

Limiting the worldwide increase to 1.5C (2.7F) would significantly reduce risks and the impacts of climate change, according to new research from the Institute Of Atmospheric Physics at the Chinese Academy Of Sciences.

Extreme once-in-10-year or once-in-20-year precipitation events could increase in likeliness by some 20 to 40 per cent, if the world fails to meet the 1.5C (2.7F) target.

This would put countless lives at risk, scientists warn.

The author of the study, Tianjun Zhou, is a professor at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences who specialises in statistical models.

THE PARIS AGREEMENT: A GLOBAL ACCORD TO LIMIT TEMPERATURE RISES THROUGH CARBON EMISSION REDUCTION TARGETS The Paris Agreement, which was first signed in 2015, is an international agreement to control and limit climate change. It hopes to hold the increase in the global average temperature to below 2C (3.6F) 'and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5C (2.7F)'. It seems the more ambitious goal of restricting global warming to 1.5C (2.7F) may be more important than ever, according to previous research which claims 25 per cent of the world could see a significant increase in drier conditions. The Paris Agreement on Climate Change has four main goals with regards to reducing emissions: 1) A long-term goal of keeping the increase in global average temperature to well below 2C above pre-industrial levels 2) To aim to limit the increase to 1.5C, since this would significantly reduce risks and the impacts of climate change 3) Governments agreed on the need for global emissions to peak as soon as possible, recognising that this will take longer for developing countries 4) To undertake rapid reductions thereafter in accordance with the best available science Source: European Commission Advertisement

'As the climate warms, both the mean state and the variability of extreme precipitation are projected to increase, inducing more intense and dangerous extreme events,' professor Zhou said.

'Limiting global warming to 1.5C (2.7F), compared to 2C (3.6F), would reduce areal and population exposures to once-in-10-year or once-in-20-year extreme precipitation events by approximately 20 to 40 percent.'

The researchers used an archive of comprehensive climate models and combined them with socio-economic projections to investigate future climate changes and the accompanying impacts.

Their research focused mainly on the global monsoon region, which covers a vast portion of the world and encompasses almost two-thirds of the world's population.

Scientists have found that by reducing the global warming limit by 0.5C - from 2C to 1.5C - we could stop 'extreme precipitation events' from ever occurring. Extreme precipitation can lead to overflowing rivers and flooding as torrents of water harness the potential to destroy entire cities

It spans north and south of the equator and is a region which is particularly susceptible to extreme precipitation than any other land mass on Earth.

The scientists found that by reducing the global warming limit by 0.5C (0.9F), a significant number of extreme precipitation events and their impacts could be avoided.

'Realising the 1.5C (2.7F) low warming target proposed by the Paris Agreement could robustly benefit the populous global monsoon region, in terms of lower exposure to precipitation extremes,' Zhou said, referring to the severe floods, landslides and debris flows that can result from excessive rain.

'[Our results] are robust across climate models, different definitions of dangerous events, future greenhouse gas emissions scenarios, and population scenarios.'

The researchers will continue to study the physical processes of how 0.5C (0.9F) less warming affects dangerous precipitation extremes.

They're also calling others to attention and action in regions that are the most sensitive to the 0.5C (0.9F) additional warming.

'Among the global land monsoon regions, the most affected sub-regions, the South African and South Asian monsoon regions, are already among the most vulnerable to adverse impacts of climate change,' Zhou said.

'Our results call attention to more effective adaption activities in these sensitivity regions.'

The research was published in the journal Nature Communications.
Twitter has revealed it will not block controversial conspiracy theorist Alex Jones from its site, despite recent bans from competitors Apple, YouTube and Facebook.

A spokesperson said accounts run by the podcast host and his media platform InfoWars will be spared the ban as they have not violated Twitter's policies.

Users of the microblogging site have criticised the decision, arguing that Twitter is 'protecting the hate, violence and bigotry' of Jones and his associated accounts.

The 44-year-old saw his personal and InfoWars content removed from a host of the internet's biggest sites in an unprecedented series of bans this week.

Apple, YouTube, Spotify and Facebook all announced blocks of the conspiracy theorist's accounts and content within hours of one another on Monday, citing hate policy violations.

InfoWars, Jones's right-wing conspiracy website, branded the 'coordinated effort' a 'purge' designed to censor the site's provocative messages.

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Twitter has revealed it will not block controversial conspiracy theorist Alex Jones from its site, despite recent bans from competitors Apple, YouTube and Facebook (file photo)

Following calls for similar restrictions on Twitter, a spokesperson for the site revealed Jones and his affiliated accounts would remain active.

They told MailOnline that InfoWars and its associated accounts were not currently in violation of Twitter's rules.

Content that is posted by InfoWars to other social media sites is often not also published to Twitter, they added.

Its policies on hate speech state that it does not tolerate users who harass, intimidate, or use fear to silence other social network users.

Twitter users that violate these rules could find their content deleted, or their access to the account suspended, according to the social network.

But the site has come under fire in recent months over the way it handles accounts that post abusive and threatening tweets - particularly those based on gender and religion - despite last year claiming it would crack down on abusive content.

The site suspended the accounts of several leaders of the far-right group Britain First in December for breaking its rules on hate speech.

It claims to have removed tens of thousands of accounts - many of them affiliated with neo-nazi groups - since it pledged to make Twitter a 'safer environment' in November 2017.

Twitter users criticised the microblogging site this week for its failure to take a harder stance on Jones and InfoWars.

Shaun King wrote: 'OK, @Twitter the ball is in your court. Every other major platform stepped up. Why are you protecting the hate and violence and bigotry of Alex Jones?'

Twitter users criticised the microblogging site for its failure to take a harder stance on Jones and InfoWars

Janice Leonard tweeted: '@Twitter please ban @realalexjones. We do not need to be subjected to his lies. Please'

Following bans from Facebook, Spotify and Apple, pornographic website YouPorn announced yesterday that it would remove any videos featuring Jones from its site. Twitter user Joyce Bolton criticised the microblogging site for failing to follow suit

Ed Krassenstein tweeted: 'Why isn't Twitter banning Alex Jones and his InfoWars propaganda? Everyone else is!'

Janice Leonard wrote: '@Twitter please ban @realalexjones. We do not need to be subjected to his lies. Please.'

Jones, a right-wing radio host based in Austin, Texas, frequently lands in hot water for inciting harassment against the targets of his political rants.

He claims his shows reach at least 70 million people a week.

WHO HAS TWITTER BANNED IN THE PAST? Twitter announced in November 2017 it would begin banning accounts affiliated with 'hate groups'. In March, former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson was banned for violating hate speech rules The news followed years of criticism from users that the site allowed neo-nazi, white supremacist and other extremist groups to spread abusive messages. Twitter suspended the accounts of several leaders of the far-right group Britain First in December 2017 for breaking its rules on hate speech. In March 2018, former English Defence League leader Tommy Robinson was banned for violating rules governing 'hateful conduct'. The site announced it would soon undertake stronger measures to crack down on online trolls in May. Despite sweeping bans, the site has come under criticism for not doing enough to purge itself of abusive users. In July 2018, actor Seth Rogan lashed out at Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey for continuing to verify the accounts of white supremacists. He tweeted: 'I've been DMing with @Jack about his bizarre need to verify white supremacists on his platform for the last 8 months or so, and after all the exchanges, Ive reached a conclusion: the dude simply does not seem to give a f**k.' Advertisement

The theories he has promoted include that the September 11, 2001 attacks on New York and Washington were staged by the US government.

He has also promoted a theory that the 2012 Sandy Hook school massacre was faked.

The shooting left 26 children and adults dead at a Connecticut elementary school.

Jones currently faces five lawsuits, including three fronted by parents of children killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre  which Jones claimed was a hoax run by left-wing forces to promote gun control.

Alex Jones, a right-wing radio host based in Austin, Texas, frequently lands in hot water for inciting the harassment of targets of his political rants. He claims his shows reach at least 70 million people a week

A number of platforms have recently suspended or removed content posted by Jones and pages tied to Inforwars for violating hate content policies.

Facebook announced Monday that it removed four pages belonging to Jones for posting content that violated its policies around hate speech and violence.

It came just hours after Apple revealed it removed the entire iTunes library for five of Jones's six Infowars podcasts, including the shows 'War Room' and the daily 'The Alex Jones Show.'

Not long after Facebook and Apple took action, YouTube removed The Alex Jones Channel, which counts close to 2.5 million subscribers.

A twitter spokesperson said accounts run by the podcast host and his media platform InfoWars will be spared the ban hammer as they have not violated the site's policies (stock image)

WHAT IS TWITTER'S POLICY ON HATE SPEECH? Twitter says it does not tolerate behaviour that harasses, intimidates, or uses fear to silence other social network users. Twitter users that violate these rules could find their content deleted, or their access to the account suspended by the social network. What does Twitter forbid? According to the company, it will remove any tweets that do the following  Threaten physical violence

Promote attacks on the basis of their race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, religious affiliation, age, disability, or serious disease

References to mass murder, violent events, or specific means of violence in which such groups are the primary targets or victims

Incites fear about a certain protected group

Repeated use of non-consensual slurs, epithets, racist and sexist tropes

Content designed to degrade a specific user Twitter users can target individuals or specific groups in a number of manners, for example using the @ mention feature, or tagging a photo. How does Twitter enforce these rules? According to the company, the first thing it does whenever an account or tweet is flagged as inappropriate is check the context. Twitter says: 'some Tweets may seem to be abusive when viewed in isolation, but may not be when viewed in the context of a larger conversation. 'While we accept reports of violations from anyone, sometimes we also need to hear directly from the target to ensure that we have proper context.' Twitter says the total number of reports received around an individual post or account does not impact whether or not something will be removed. However, it could help Twitter prioritise the order in which it looks through flagged tweets and accounts. What happens if you violate Twitter's policy? The consequences for violating our rules will vary depending on the severity of the violation and the persons previous record of violations, Twitter says. The penalties range from requesting a user voluntarily remove an offending tweet, to suspending an entire account. Advertisement

Spotify also announced Monday it was taking further action against Jones, removing every episode of the Alex Jones Show from the streaming site.

Prior to this, Spotify had only gotten rid of specific episodes of the show, leaving most of the library up on its platform.

Even pornographic website YouPorn announced yesterday that it would remove any videos featuring Jones from its site.

People often post non-pornographic content to porn websites due to their relatively relaxed copyright rules.

Facebook announced Monday that it removed four pages belonging to Jones for posting content that violated its policies around hate speech and violence. It marks an about face for Facebook, which had earlier refused to take down Infowars' content on grounds of free speech

In recent weeks, Facebook and other tech giants have faced repeated backlash over its inaction against the US conspiracy theorist.

However, YouTube, Facebook and Apple all chose to take sweeping action against Jones on the same day, effectively removing his content from their platforms.

A notice on the Alex Jones Channel said the account had been 'terminated for violating YouTube's Community Guidelines.'

'All users agree to comply with our Terms of Service and Community Guidelines when they sign up to use YouTube,' a YouTube spokesperson said in a statement.

WHO IS ALEX JONES? Alex Jones is a controversial radio and podcast host based in Austin, Texas. Jones says his 'InfoWars' shows, which are broadcast on radio, YouTube and other platforms, reach at least 70 million people a week. Among other claims, he has called the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School mass shooting a hoax. He was sued for defamation by families of some of the children killed in that attack, which left 20 children and six adults dead. Among other claims, Alex Jones (file photo) has called the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School mass shooting a hoax. He was sued for defamation by families of some of the children killed in that attack, which left 20 children and six adults dead He now admits the shooting occurred but says his claims were free speech. He has sought to have the lawsuit dismissed. Jones has also claimed that the September 11, 2001 attacks on New York and Washington were staged by the US government. While he began broadcasting his shows in 1999, Jones' profile has spread from the far-right fringe in recent years. While running for president in 2015, Donald Trump told Jones his reputation was 'amazing.' Advertisement

'When users violate these policies repeatedly, like our policies against hate speech and harassment or our terms prohibiting circumvention of our enforcement measures, we terminate their accounts.'

YouTube had pulled four down videos hosted by Jones last month for violating its policies around hate speech and child endangerment.

The firm became aware that Jones was continuing to violate its policies and took further action as a result.

YouTube's initial actions had triggered similar moves by Spotify, Facebook and Apple.

Apple announced its decision on Sunday night. Only one programme provided by InfoWars, 'RealNews with David Knight' remained on Apple's platforms at the time of publication.

In a statement to BuzzFeed, Apple confirmed it had also removed Jones' podcast for violating its guidelines on hate speech.

Just hours later, Facebook said it had 'unpublished' the Alex Jones Channel Page, the Alex Jones Page, the Infowars Page and the Infowars Nightly News Page.

Many have pointed out that the timing of Facebook's ban was peculiar, with the social media firm posting the announcement to its site at about 3 a.m. (PT), according to the Guardian.

It marks a major about face for Facebook, which had said in recent weeks that it refused to ban Infowars on the grounds of protecting free speech on its platform.

Facebook in July banned Jones personally from posting on the platform for 30 days and removed four videos for violating its rules.

At the time, Facebook had warned that it would ban Jones and Infowars' accounts should they continue to post content violating the company's standards.

'As a result of reports we received, last week, we removed four videos on four Facebook Pages for violating our hate speech and bullying policies,' Facebook wrote in a blog post.

'Since then, more content from the same Pages has been reported to us  upon review, we have taken it down for glorifying violence, which violates our graphic violence policy, and using dehumanizing language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies.'

Facebook added that while many have criticized Infowars for posting fake news on the site, such as conspiracy theories related to 9/11 and the Sandy Hook shooting, the actions it took were not related to that.

While Jones and Infowars are technically unable to access the site, Facebook said they still have the right to 'appeal' the company's decision.

If neither party appeals or their appeal fails, Facebook will remove the Pages indefinitely.

Facebook said in a tweet last month that banning Infowars' Pages 'would be contrary to the basic principles of free speech' after a CNN reporter asked why the firm had allowed Infowars, which had more than 900,000 followers, to continue to operate on its site.

In July, YouTube slapped Jones' channel with a 'community strike,' blocking him from broadcasting live on the site for 90 days.

Spotify, a music and podcast streaming company, followed suit last week when it removed some specific episodes of Jones's programmes.

It's unclear exactly how many episodes were ditched, although the vast majority of content created by Jones remains available to Spotify users.

'Spotify can confirm it has removed specific episodes of `The Alex Jones Show podcast for violating our hate content policy,' a spokesperson said late Sunday.

'We take reports of hate content seriously and review any podcast episode or song that is flagged by our community.'
Domestic violence may have its roots in evolution, according to a controversial new study  a finding that could explain why the crime is so widespread across the globe.

The latest findings suggest men who are abusive towards their partners have more children, meaning it could be a trait that has evolved because it benefits men.

The implication is that abusive men use violence to rape their partners, making them more likely to father children and pass their genes to the next generation, according to an accompanying perspective by Elizabeth Pillsworth of California State University.

Researchers say understanding the impact of evolution on domestic violence may aid future efforts to prevent it.

But critics say the study shows little about the inheritance of violent traits as it only looked at a single generation of violent men.

Domestic violence may have its roots in evolution, according to a controversial new study. The research suggests that men who are abusive towards their partners have more children in societies that don't have birth control (stock image)

Scientists at the University of Toulouse, France, interviewed women of the Tsimane people  an indigenous culture of lowland Bolivia with no access to contraception.

Shockingly, 85 per cent of the 105 women they spoke to for the study had experienced domestic abuse during their lifetime.

Researchers found that on average women were more likely to give birth in a year in which their partner was violent with them.

Experts said sexual violence against a partner could increases a couple's likelihood to have children, meaning abusive men are more likely to pass on their genes.

'Intimate partner violence may persist as an evolutionary strategy to enhance male fitness,' said anthropologist Dr Pillsworth, a researcher at California State University who was not involved in the study.

The controversial findings have linked with similar studies that examined some of humanity's closest relatives.

The implication is that abusive men use violence to rape their partners, making them more likely to father children and pass their genes to the next generation. Understanding the impact of evolution on domestic violence may aid efforts to prevent it (stock image)

Certain species of baboon and chimpanzee have previously been shown to use long-term sexual intimidation to control their mates.

This suggests partner abuse has a long history in primates, including humans  although some scientists have disputed the claim.

Lead author of the new study Dr Jonathan Stieglitz cautioned its results do not prove that domestic violence has any evolutionary benefit for the entire species.

He wrote in Nature: 'It would be wrong and misguided to say that evolution favours intimate partner violence, or that spousal abuse is adaptive.

'Requirements for showing that a trait was and is favoured by natural selection are much more rigorous than what we do in this observational case study.'

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE LIMITATIONS OF THE NEW STUDY? A study from the University of Toulouse suggests that domestic violence may have its roots in evolution as abusive men are more likely to have children. While the results are shocking, there are a few issues with the study that put its results into question. Researchers only interviewed 105 women from an indigenous Bolivian community - a notably small sample size. The process of interviewing people about past events is also known to be an unreliable method for gathering data. The study linked women who had been victims of domestic violence to having more children on average than women who weren't abused. But the results are merely a correlation, rather than causation - and a number of factors could have contributed to this trend. Lead author of the new study Dr Jonathan Stieglitz cautioned its results do not prove that domestic violence has any evolutionary benefit. He said: 'It would be wrong and misguided to say that evolution favours intimate partner violence, or that spousal abuse is adaptive.' The research only looked at a single generation of Tsimane people, he said. To show a 'domestic violence trait' exists, scientists would need to show that the children of abusive partners went on to reproduce more themselves. Advertisement

Dr Emma Williamson, head of the Centre for Gender and Violence Research at the University of Bristol, agrees.

She told MailOnline: 'I don't believe the premise of the evolutionary link is a valid one.

'Any human behaviour could be described as linked to evolution as humans have evolved and as the authors of the study themselves recognise, such a link cannot be made from this particular study.'

According to Dr Stieglitz, the results may suggest partner violence is even more prevalent worldwide than the latest 'frightening statistics' already indicate.

He added the study could help combat domestic abuse in future by aiding our understanding of its causes.

'The World Health Organisation reports that more than one in three women face violence from an intimate partner during their lifetime, and nearly one in four murders of women worldwide are by intimate partners,' Dr Stieglitz said.

'Developing effective interventions to reduce intimate partner violence requires understanding the underlying risk factors for such violence.'

For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit a local Samaritans branch, see www.samaritans.org for details.
As heatwaves are setting all-time temperature records across the globe, new research has revealed a troubling link between drought and the fall of empires.

In a new paper, scientists uncovered a link between the fall of the Roman Empire and unprecedented drought across the ancient world.

According to the researchers, there is also a link between the lifespan of a Roman emperor and the amount of rainfall recorded during their reign.

Extreme weather events are linked to political instability to this day, scientists say.

Military experts have previously warned that climate change could prompt a 'humanitarian crisis of epic proportions', triggering mass migration, war and threats to national security.

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In a new paper, researchers have looked at the link between the fall of the Roman Empire and dwindling levels of rainfall. Pictured is La morte di Cesare by Vincenzo Camuccini

Dr Cornelius Christian of Brock University and Liam Elbourne of St Francis Xavier University looked at the relationship between weather and assassinations.

Researchers collected data on rain by looking at oak tree rings in France and Germany, writes The Economist.

Oak rings are sensitive to changes in precipitation, and can reveal precise changes experience in the environment at certain points in history.

During seasons when water and nutrients are in good supply, trees record broad growth rings.

However, the rings grow in much tighter formations during periods when weather conditions are less favourable.

The Roman economy was largely agricultural and therefore heavily dependent on rainfall.

The Roman Empire, which lasted from 27 BC to 476 AD, had a total of eighty-two emperors.

Around 20 per cent of these were the victims of assassinations.

Of these, the assassination of Julius Caesar on March 15 44BC is one of the most notorious.

The emperor was stabbed a total of 23 times on the Ides of March, but only one of them  the second wound he received to the breast  was fatal to the 55-year-old.

Researchers found that when rainfall is low, Roman troops starved and were more likely to mutiny.

More mutinies were linked to more assassinations of Roman emperors.

Researchers found that when rainfall is low, Roman troops starved and were more likely to mutiny. More mutinies were linked to more assassinations of Roman emperors

Researchers found a 20 per cent reduction in annual rainfall resulted in a 0.11 standard deviation increase in the probability an emperor would be assassinated the following year.

'A dictator relies on his military's support; shocks to this support can threaten his rule,' researchers wrote in their paper, published in Economics Letters.

'Motivated by this, we find that lower rainfall, along the north-eastern Roman Empire, predicts more assassinations of Roman emperors.

'Our proposed mechanism is as follows: lower precipitation increases the probability that Roman troops, who relied on local food supplies, starve.

'This pushes soldiers to mutiny, hence weakening the emperor's support, and increasing the probability he is assassinated.'

Although the evidence suggests the amount of rain is linked to the number of assassinations, researchers admit other factors would have played a role.

'A starving military is probably not the sole determinant of a Roman emperor's violent demise', the researchers wrote.

'However, we explain one potential forcing variable, which can heighten political instability within the Roman Empire. Other factors might also have played a role.'

Pictured is the the Colosseum in Rome. The Roman Empire, which lasted from 27 BC to 476 AD, had a total of eighty-two emperors. Around 20 per cent of them were assassinated

Extreme weather events are still linked to political instability.

Back in 2016, Brigadier General Stephen Cheney, chief executive of the American Security Project and member of the US Department of State's foreign policy affairs board, said: 'Climate change could lead to a humanitarian crisis of epic proportions.

'We're already seeing migration of large numbers of people around the world because of food scarcity, water insecurity and extreme weather, and this is set to become the new normal.'

The impacts of rising temperatures, such as droughts, are acting to increase instability on Europe's doorstep  with direct links to climate change in the Syrian war, the Arab Spring and the Boko Haram terrorist insurgency in Africa, Brigadier General Cheney said.
The Google Doodle for Tuesday, August 7 celebrates the polymath physician and philosopher Ibn Sina, known as Avicenna in the West, who was born in what is present-day Uzbekistan in 980.

One of the most influential thinkers of all time, Avicenna was a polymath who excelled in fields as far ranging as mathematics, physics, medicine and philosophy.

His works in these fields still influence much of modern-day thought.

Here is all you need to know about Ibn Sina including why he is known as Avicenna, who he was and his works.

The Google Doodle for August 7 celebrates the polymath physician and philosopher Ibn Sina

Who was Avicenna?

Ali Al Husayn Ibn Sina was born in 980 in Afsana, present-day Uzbekistan, during the Islamic Golden Age. The name Avicenna is the Latin corruption of Ibn Sina, which means Son of Sina.

Avicennas prodigious intellect manifested itself from an early age. By the age of ten, he known the Quran off by heart; by thirteen he was studying medicine; and by sixteen he had become an expert in the fields of physics, mathematics, metaphysics and logic.

Avicenna was just 21 years of age when he started writing his seminal work, Al Qanun fil-Tibb The Canon of Medicine. The texts, according to the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, presents an integrated view of surgery and medicine and continues to have an enduring respect.

Avicennas The Canon of Medicine

Avicenna split The Canon of Medicine into five texts: the first presents a general overview of medical principles and human anatomy, as well as standard therapeutic procedures.

Known as Avicenna in the West, he wrote the highly influential text 'The Canon of Medicine'

The second outlines medical substances set out alphabetically and discusses the nature and quality of drugs, while the third focuses on diagnoses and treatments of diseases specific to individual parts of the body.

The fourth zooms out and explores ailments not specific to just one part, including obesity and bites. The fifth and final book is a list of compound medicines.

Avicennas texts became hugely influential and was the default text used on European medical courses until the 1600s.

As the Google Doodle notes: The first work to identify contagious diseases such as tuberculosis, to hypothesize that soil and water spread sickness, and to set forth the basics of anatomy, pediatrics, and gynecology, the Canon is now credited as forming the basis of Western medicine.

Avicennas medical expertise brought him to the attention of the Sultan of Bukhara, whom he ended up treating successfully for an infection, in return the Sultan granted him access to his library of rare texts and manuscripts.

In his life, staying true to his polymath nature, Avicenna worked as everything from a political administrator, soldier, court physician and was even imprisoned at one point.

It is thought that Avicenna wrote over 100 texts during his life.

Avicenna died in the holy month of Ramadan in 1037.

Avicenna was a polymath who excelled in fields of science, medicine, maths and metaphysics

What is a Google Doodle?

Avicenna has been honoured in the Google Doodle for August 7, 2018 on what would have been his 1038th birthday.

In paying tribute, the Doodle, which was created by Cynthia Yuan Cheng, says: Todays Doodle celebrates Ibn Sina: a life devoted to education and the spirit of learning for the betterment of humankind.

Google Doodles are small illustrations or animations that appear in the Google logo on the search engine's homepage.

The first time a Google Doodle was used was in 1998, when Google founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin visited the 1998 Burning Man Festival. To commemorate their trip, the founders drew a stick-man standing behind the second o in the Google logo.

Recent Google Doodles include Mount Olympus, Gerda Taro, and Meena Kumari.
If you suffer with a short temper  you're probably not as smart as you think you are, a new study has found.

Angry people are more likely to overestimate their intelligence levels than those with a calmer disposition, scientists have found.

That's because being angry is linked with high levels of narcissism, as well as a greater belief in their abilities and competence.

Those with a short fuse were also more likely to have problems maintaining a stable relationship, according to the latest findings.

This is because individuals with high levels of narcissism struggle to establish bonds with others as they are always trying to dominate them.

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If you've got a short temper you're probably not as smart as you think, according to a new study. Researchers have revealed that angry people are more likely to overestimate their intelligence levels (stock image)

'In a recent project, I examined the relationship between anger and various cognitive functions,' said lead researcher Marcin Zajenkowski, from the faculty of Psychology at the University of Warsaw.

'I noticed from the literature review that anger differs significantly from other negative emotions, such as sadness, anxiety or depression,' he told Pyspost.org.

'Anger is more approach oriented and associated with optimistic risk perception and generally optimistic bias.'

Researchers set out to examine whether people with higher levels of anger would have a higher belief in their abilities and competence.

After carrying out two studies with a total of 528 participants, researchers found people who had a quick temper overestimated their intelligence.

Participants were asked about their temper and rate their own intelligence on a 25-point scale.

Researchers then asked the participants to take an intelligence test to check whether the self-reported levels of intelligence tallied with the real thing.

'Individuals with high trait anger have a tendency to overestimate their abilities, i.e. thinking that they are smarter than they actually are. This part of anger is associated with narcissistic illusions,' Mr Zajenkowski said.

Researchers found no relationship between the participants' temper and their level of intelligence, only in how they perceived their own abilities.

The study also showed angry people often had problems forming relationships.

'Individuals with high Narcissism do not establish deep, intimate bonds with others, but rather surpass and dominate others,' researchers wrote in the paper published in the journalIntelligence.

'Correspondingly, Trait Anger is associated with problems in relationships', researchers wrote.

'Often, experiences of anger might result in thoughts such as, "I am smart" and "You are stupid", which may, in turn, cause problems in creating positive relations with others.'

Researchers set out to examine if people with higher levels of anger would have a higher belief in their abilities and competence (stock image)

In May, it was revealed those who wear spectacles really are more intelligent than people with perfect vision.

University of Edinburgh researchers found significant links between intelligence and poor eyesight while conducting the world's largest genetic study of cognitive function.

The study analysed genetic data from 300,486 people aged between 16 and 102 who had taken part in 57 studies in Australia, Europe and North America.

Those who participated took part in a variety of thinking tests, and the results were tallied into a general cognitive ability score.

Those who scored the highest in the cognitive tests were 30 per cent more likely to need glasses, compared to those who scored poorly.

The study also showed links between higher cognitive ability and genes known to play a crucial role in good cardiovascular health.

Unfortunately, the study's design meant researchers were unable to say why there is a correlation between a person's intelligence, poor eyesight, and cardiovascular health.
SpaceX re-launched a used Block 5 rocket, Falcon 9s first stage booster, from Floridas Cape Canaveral Air Force station which in turn, deployed the Indonesian Merah Putih satellite for PT Telkom Indonesia into the orbit minutes later.

This launch was the third mission by Elon Musks company in 16 days and the 15th of 2018, successfully re-landing on one of SpaceX's drone ships Of Course I Still Love, which was stationed a few hundred miles away in the Atlantic Ocean.

Due to the success of this landing, which was the 28th booster that the company has ever recovered, Falcon 9 may go into space for the third time.

This is the first time that the Block 5 booster has been reused which means that this version of rocket could be launched as many as 10 times, with limited refurbishment between missions, as reported by Bloomberg.

SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket transporting the Tess satellite lifts off from launch complex 40

When was the Falcon 9 deployed?

The Falcon 9 was deployed from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station at 1:18am local time.

Eight minutes after it took off, Space X landed the Falcon 9s first stage on one of its drone ships called Of Course I Still Love You.

The rocket deployed a Merah Putih satellite, which is a geostationary communications website that will provide service to Indonesia and other parts of South and Southeast Asia, just 32 minutes after the launch.

According to SpaceX representatives, Merah Putih will carry an all C-band payload capable of supporting a wide range of applications, including providing mobile broadband across Indonesia and Southeast Asia. The satellite is expected to have a service lifetime of 15 or more years, as stated in a mission description.

SpaceX is planning around 30 missions in 2018, up from a record of 18 in 2017. Ahead of the debut launch of the Falcon 9 Block 5, Elon Musk said that within the next year, he wanted to fly the same vehicle twice in a 24-hour period.

Elon Musk at a press conference following the first launch of a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket

In May 2018, Falcon 9 was used to send a large communications satellite for Bangladesh from Florida and the vehicle landed on a drone ship, it was inspected, refurbished and made ready for flight again.

After this, Musk said: We are going to be very rigorous in taking this rocket apart and confirming our design assumptions to be confident that it is indeed able to be reused without being taken apart, according to Money Control.

He continued to say that the Block 5s first stage booster had been designed to fly 10 times with no scheduled refurbishment and with moderate scheduled maintenance, ultimately being capable of 100 missions.

The August 7 launch is the 15th time that one of SpaceXs flight-proven or previously-flown rockets has returned to space and completed a mission.

What this means is that with the reuse of boosters, it limits the amount of upkeep and reduces the cost of space flight. Due to SpaceXs success in this area, it is becoming one of the most valuable venture-backed startups in the US.

What is Space X?

SpaceX was founded by Tesla owner Elon Musk and has the aim to revolutionize space technology with the ultimate goals of enabling people to live on other planets.

Also known as Space Exploration Technologies Corp, the concept of the company was conceived on a flight from Moscow, where Musk had tried to find an intercontinental ballistic missile at a low price so that mice could be sent to Mars.

He then calculated that he could build the rockets himself and at a faster and cheaper rate than the competition and SpaceX was born in 2002. The company grew and in 2008, NASA awarded the company a $1.6 billion Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) contract and three years later, another $75 million.

The latter contract was in order to develop a revolutionary launch escape system that will enable the companys Dragon spacecraft to carry astronauts. SpaceX then received $2.6 billion to construct a Dragon V2 spacecraft.

In 2008, SpaceXs Falcon 1 was the first privately-developed liquid fuel rocket to reach the Earths orbiot and this launch was followed up with the Falcon 1 flight 5, the first of its kind to deliver a commercial satellite to our planets orbit.

Two years later, the company was able to send a spacecraft into orbit and bring it back in one piece and then, became the first private organisation to reach a space station - when the Dragon craft visited the ISS in 2012.

In December 2015, the Falcon 9 rocket achieved the first ever orbital class rocket landing after returning from delivering 11 communications satellites and this year, it launched Falcon Heavy, the heaviest rocket in use.
The politics when you were a teenager determine how much you fear certain crimes, new research has suggested.

These fears around certain crimes last decades into adulthood.

According to the latest findings, teenagers under Labour in the 1970s now fear muggings more than other generations, while people whose formative years fell under Margaret Thatcher chiefly fear burglaries.

These anxieties stem from the key social and political issues that plagued Britain at the time, the researchers said.

A dramatic rise in property crime during the 1980s means people who were in their teens under Thatcher are scared of burglaries, while a rise in anti-social crime under Tony Blair means millennials are most concerned about vandalism and loitering.

We are most sensitive to social events between the ages of 15 to 25 as this is when we form many of our lasting opinions of the world, researchers said.

The politics you grew up with shapes how frightened you are of certain crimes - even decades after you became an adult, suggests new research. Those who were teenagers under Labour in the 70s worry most about muggings (stock image)

Researchers at the University of Sheffield Southampton University and Sciences Po in Paris, investigated how our upbringing affects our feelings about certain crimes.

Study co author Professor Stephen Farrall, Deputy Head of Sheffield University's School of Law, said: 'The pronouncements leading politicians make about crime can have a lasting impact on the crime fears of young adults.

'Political and popular debates about crime that are prevalent in one's youth appear to impact the fears those individuals report through adulthood and into middle age.'

Scientists analysed 30 years of data around fear of crime and anti-social behaviour from the Office for National Statistics British Crime Survey in England and Wales.

In doing so, they were able to estimate the net effects of individual ageing, the historical period in which the survey was conducted, and the political generations the respondents belonged to.

The researchers found a strong relationship between a respondent's fear of certain crimes and their political generation.

The political climate we experience aged of 15 to 25 has a strong influence on our anxieties because this is the age we form key opinions and are most sensitive to social events, researchers claim (stock image)

For example, those who grew up under the leadership of Margaret Thatcher (1979-1990) or John Major (1990-1997) expressed the greatest level of worry about domestic burglary.

This same generation witnessed a dramatic rise in property crime during the 1980s.

Meanwhile, the generation whose formative years fell during the leadership of Wilson and Callaghan expressed the highest levels of worry about robbery and mugging, which was a key concern for politicians, policy makers and journalists at the time.

Responses to anti-social behaviours tell a similar story.

DOES THE YEAR YOU GREW UP IN AFFECT YOUR FEAR OF CRIME? Research led by the university of Sheffield suggests the year we grew up in has a big impact on the crimes we fear most. This is because the political and social climate during our teenage years and early 20s alters our last perception of the world. The researchers found the following links between political generations and crimes most feared  Harold Wilson and James Callaghan (1974-79): Muggings and robberies Margaret Thatcher and John Major (1979-1997): Burglaries Tony Blair and Gordon Brown (1997-2010): Vandalism and loitering Advertisement

People who grew up during the Blair and Brown governments, from the late 1990s to 2010, reported the highest level of concern about local problems, such as vandalism, teenagers loitering, and noisy neighbours.

Such problems were big issues during that political period.

Overall, the new study shows that people have a greater propensity to fear the crimes that were the focus of political debate during their youth  and this effect persists into adulthood.

The results reveal that crime fears can linger, and that the processes by which people form their political values can cast a long-term influence on their attitude about crime.

Professor Farrall concluded: 'Our narratives of crime and disorder tell us something important about the enduring influence of our political history and the stories we hear about crime.'

The full study was published in the British Journal of Criminology.
BEIJING, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- About 40 years after China set sail on its voyage of reform and opening-up, the journey is still at full speed and heading towards ever greater goals.

At the 19th Communist Party of China (CPC) National Congress held in October last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of Central Military Commission, outlined new moves to deepen reform in all areas.

In his report to the Party congress, Xi listed "continuing to comprehensively deepen reform" in the basic policy to uphold and develop socialism with Chinese characteristics for a new era.

The report proposed 158 reform measures and clarified important reform areas and key sections, including the supply-side structural reform which gives priority to improving the quality of the supply system.

UNSHAKEABLE RESOLVE

During his first inspection tour to east China's Jiangsu Province after the Party congress, Xi made important instructions on reforms of state-owned enterprises, economic restructuring in regions running out of natural resources, and rural vitalization.

In the following months, from southern Hainan Province, central Hubei Province to eastern Shandong Province, Xi has as always taken the lead in guiding deepening reform in all areas to make new advances.

At its first meeting in mid November 2017, the leading group for deepening overall reform of the 19th CPC Central Committee, headed by Xi, set the principles of carrying out reforms and underscored systematic, unified and coordinated action in pushing forward those tasks.

An action plan from 2018 to 2022 has been issued, elaborating on who, when and how to carry out the 158 reform measures.

Xi has repeatedly voiced his resolve to continue reform.

"China's reform will cover more areas, and more and stronger steps will be taken in pursuing this endeavor," Xi said at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit in Da Nang, Vietnam, in November 2017.

At the opening ceremony of the Boao Forum for Asia annual conference in April, Xi called reform and opening-up "China's second revolution" that had not only profoundly changed the country but greatly influenced the whole world.

"We should endeavor to advance structural reform, remove all institutional barriers to innovation and fully unlock innovation potential and energize the market," Xi said on July 25 when addressing the BRICS Business Forum in Johannesburg, South Africa.

PROFOUND CHANGES

At its annual session in March, the National People's Congress adopted an amendment to the Constitution, which laid the solid foundations for long-term, comprehensive reform.

At the same time, a large-scale reform of Party and state institutions was unfurled. In less than three months, the country established and restructured 25 Party and government institutions.

Several promising areas have been selected to be pilots for advancing reform and opening-up.

In April, Hainan Province, a special economic zone of 30 years, received the guidelines on supporting its efforts to deepen reform and opening-up from the CPC Central Committee and the State Council.

Since the announcement of its founding in April last year, Xiongan New Area, sitting at the center of the triangular area formed by Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei's provincial capital Shijiazhuang, has been gradually materializing Xi's strategic vision.

At a July meeting of the central committee for deepening overall reform, Xiongan was granted greater powers to conduct reform and take the initiative of reforms in innovative development, city governance and public service.

OPENING WIDER

From the Hainan pilot free trade zone in the south to Xiongan New Area in the north, China has been opening its doors wider and wider by rolling out more reform measures nationwide.

Reform measures formulated on a basis in pilot free trade zones have been copied and promoted elsewhere in the country.

China has also been gearing for the China International Import Expo, which will be held in Shanghai in November.

People now need to come to an exit-entry administration bureau just once to finish necessary paper work.

A mechanism for solving trade, business and investment disputes along the Belt and Road has also been set up.

From elderly services to medical insurance, from education to employment, from economic development to social causes, China has implemented a series of targeted reform measures to meet the people's need for a better life.

China's continued reform and opening-up is advancing with a strong momentum and being welcomed worldwide. The 2018 China Business Climate Survey Report, released by the American Chamber of Commerce in China, revealed that 74 percent of its members plan to expand investment in China, the highest percentage in recent years.

[ Editor: LYQ ]
Twitter's been on fire with people amazed by cats that seem compelled to park themselves in squares of tape marked out on the floor.

These felines appear powerless to resist the call of the #CatSquare.

This social media fascination is a variation on a question I heard over and over as a panelist on Animal Planet's 'America's Cutest Pets' series.

I was asked to watch video after video of cats climbing into cardboard boxes, suitcases, sinks, plastic storage bins, cupboards and even wide-necked flower vases.

'That's so cute  but why do you think she does that?' was always the question. It was as if each climbing or squeezing incident had a completely different explanation.

It did not. It's just a fact of life that cats like to squeeze into small spaces where they feel much safer and more secure.

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According to Dodman, the close contact with the box's interior likely endorphins  nature's own morphine-like substances  causing pleasure and reducing stress for cats

Instead of being exposed to the clamor and possible danger of wide open spaces, cats prefer to huddle in smaller, more clearly delineated areas.

When young, they used to snuggle with their mom and litter mates, feeling the warmth and soothing contact.

Think of it as a kind of swaddling behavior. The close contact with the box's interior, we believe, releases endorphins  nature's own morphine-like substances  causing pleasure and reducing stress.

Along with Temple Grandin, I researched the comforting effect of 'lateral side pressure.'

We found that the drug naltrexone, which counteracts endorphins, reversed the soporific effect of gentle squeezing of pigs. Hugs, anyone?

Also remember that cats make nests  small, discrete areas where mother cats give birth and provide sanctuary for their kittens.

The expert says it's just a fact of life that cats like to squeeze into small spaces where they feel much safer and more secure. This is likely even the case with the so-called 'virtual box,' when cat owners make a square on the floor using tape

Note that no behavior is entirely unique to any one particular sex, be they neutered or not.

Small spaces are in cats' behavioral repertoire and are generally good (except for the cat carrier, of course, which has negative connotations  like car rides or a visit to the vet).

One variation on this theme occurs when the box is so shallow that it does not provide all the creature comforts it might.

Or then again, the box may have no walls at all but simply be a representation of a box  say a taped-in square on the ground.

This virtual box is not as good as the real thing but is at least a representation of what might be  if only there was a real square box to nestle in.

Small spaces are in cats' behavioral repertoire and are generally good (except for the cat carrier, of course, which has negative connotations  like car rides or a visit to the vet). File photo

DO CATS RULE THE HOUSEHOLD? STUDY SHOWS THEY BULLY DOGS In a study of homes with both pets, more than half of owners say their cat has lashed out threateningly at their dog. Yet fewer than one in five have seen their dog menace their cat. Some 56.5 per cent said their cat had threatened their dog, compared with 18 per cent whose dog had threatened the cat. And although cats are typically smaller than dogs, they still manage to inflict injury on their domestic rivals. Almost a tenth of owners reported their cat had injured the dog, but fewer than 1 per cent said their dog had harmed the cat. The findings come from a study of almost 750 owners, who overwhelmingly believe cat is king. While dogs and cats can live together amicably, they said, it is rarely a close relationship  and whether they get on at all is mainly up to the cat. Cats that are frequently uncomfortable around dogs were less likely to form an amicable relationship, they added. Study co-author Dr Sophie Hall, of the School of Life Sciences at the University of Lincoln, said: On the face of it, these results suggest that the cat is the kingpin in a household with dogs. They are the princess and the dog is lower down in the hierarchy. It may be that cats threatening acts are more obvious to owners, as they hiss or strike out with their paws at a dog. 'But it may also be the case that cats are less domesticated in their behaviours. It is important to note that these findings are the owners perceptions of their pets relationships, but it seems that the cat has to be happy and content, rather than the dog, for them to live happily together. The study, published in the Journal of Veterinary Behaviour, said that cats and dogs may get along better if the cat is younger when they begin sharing a space. Advertisement

This virtual box may provide some misplaced sense of security and psychosomatic comfort.

The cats-in-boxes issue was put to the test by Dutch researchers who gave shelter cats boxes as retreats.

According to the study, cats with boxes adapted to their new environment more quickly compared to a control group without boxes: The conclusion was that the cats with boxes were less stressed because they had a cardboard hidey-hole to hunker down in.

Instead of being exposed to the clamor and possible danger of wide open spaces, cats prefer to huddle in smaller, more clearly delineated areas. When young, they used to snuggle with their mom and litter mates, feeling the warmth and contact, like a kind of swaddling behavior

Let this be a lesson to all cat people  cats need boxes or other vessels for environmental enrichment purposes.

Hidey-holes in elevated locations are even better: Being high up provides security and a birds's-eye view of the world, so to speak.

Without a real box, a square on the ground may be the next best thing for a cat, though it's a poor substitute for the real thing.

Whether a shoe box, shopping bag or a square on the ground, it probably gives a cat a sense of security that open space just can't provide.

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.




The collapse in the walrus tusk trade triggered an economic crisis for early Viking colonists in Greenland that led to the downfall of its settlements and churches, according to new research.

Early settlers in Greenland enjoyed a 'near monopoly' on the supply of ivory from walrus tusks to Europe for more than 200 years.

Researchers said this demand for luxury goods produced from ivory may have helped far-flung Norse communities in Greenland survive for centuries and allowed the colonists to build thriving communities and buildings.

According to new research, the bubble burst because elephant tusks became more popular than those from walruses. The arrival of the Black Death in the same period meant people were less likely to invest in luxury products, scientists say.

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Early Viking colonists in Greenland had a 'near monopoly' on the supply of ivory from walrus tusks to Europe for more than 200 years, according to new research. Pictured is a walrus rostrum (upper jaw bone) with tusks that was used in the study

Analysis of ancient walrus DNA suggests that the lost Norse hordes of Greenland fuelled the medieval ivory trade in Western Europe.

The Icelandic Sagas tell of Erik the Red who fled to south west Greenland after being exiled for murder in the late 10th Century and established the first Norse settlement there.

By the mid-12th Century there were two major settlements with a population of thousands and Greenland even gained its own bishop.

But by the end of the 15th Century the Norse of Greenland had vanished  leaving only abandoned ruins and an enduring mystery.

Previous theories regarding why the communities collapsed include a change in climate and an adherence to failing farming techniques.

Some have suggested that trading commodities  notably walrus tusks  with Europe may have been vital to sustaining the residents of Greenland.

Ornate items such as crucifixes and chess pieces were fashioned from walrus ivory by craftsmen of the age.

But the source of this ivory has never been empirically established.

Now researchers from Cambridge University and Oslo University in Norway have studied ancient DNA from off-cuts of tusks and skulls.

Most were found on the sites of former ivory workshops across Europe in order to trace the origin of the animals used in the medieval trade.

In doing so, the researchers discovered an evolutionary split in the walrus, and revealed that the Greenland colonies may have had a 'near monopoly' on the supply of ivory to Western Europe for over 200 years.

For the study, published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, the researchers analysed walrus samples found in several medieval trading centres - Trondheim, Bergen, Oslo, Dublin, London, Schleswig and Sigtuna.

Pictured is an upper jaw bone found during excavations in Bergen, Norway. The DNA showed that during the last Ice Age the Atlantic walrus was divided into two ancestral lines, which researchers term 'eastern' and 'western'

They mostly dated to between the years 900 and 1400 AD.

The DNA showed that during the last Ice Age the Atlantic walrus was divided into two ancestral lines, which researchers term 'eastern' and 'western'.

Walruses of the eastern lineage are widespread across much of the Arctic, including Scandinavia.

But those of the western are unique to the waters between western Greenland and Canada.

Finds from the early years of the ivory trade were mostly from the eastern lineage.

But as demand grew from the 12th Century onwards, the researchers discovered Europe's ivory supply shifted almost exclusively to tusks from the western lineage.

They say that from western linage walruses must have been supplied by the Norse Greenlanders, by hunting and perhaps also by trade with the indigenous people of Arctic North America.

Study co-author Dr James Barrett, of Cambridge Univesity's Department of Archaeology, said: 'The results suggest that by the 1100s Greenland had become the main supplier of walrus ivory to Western Europe - a near monopoly even.

'The change in the ivory trade coincides with the flourishing of the Norse settlements on Greenland. The populations grew and elaborate churches were constructed.

Walruses of the eastern lineage are widespread across much of the Arctic, including Scandinavia. But those of the western are unique to the waters between western Greenland and Canada. Pictured is an example of an elaborately-carved ecclesiastical walrus ivory plaque from the beginning of the medieval walrus ivory trade

'Later Icelandic accounts suggest that in the 1120s, Greenlanders used walrus ivory to secure the right to their own bishopric from the king of Norway.

'Tusks were also used to pay tithes to the church.'

Dr Barrett said the 11th to 13th Centuries were a time of demographic and economic boom in Europe, with growing demand from urban centres and the elite served by transporting commodities from increasingly distant sources.

He said: 'The demands for luxury goods produced from ivory may have helped the far-flung Norse communities in Greenland survive for centuries.'

Co-author Dr Sanne Boessenkool, of the University of Oslo, said: 'We knew from the start that analysing ancient DNA would have the potential for new historical insights, but the findings proved to be particularly spectacular.'

Dr Barrett said their findings tells us less about the end of the Greenland colonies, but the researchers noted that it is hard to find evidence of walrus ivory imports to Europe that date after 1400.

Elephant ivory eventually became the material of choice for Europe's artisans.

WHAT WERE THE VIKING VOYAGES OF DISCOVERY? The Vikings made many many voyages of discovery during their history, including stops across Europe and North America. 789AD Vikings begin their attacks on England 840AD Viking settlers found the city of Dublin in Ireland 844AD Vikings raid Seville but are repulsed 860AD Rus Vikings attack Constantinople 866AD York is captured by a Viking army 870AD Vikings colonise Iceland 981AD Erik the Red discovers Greenland 986AD Bjarni Herjolfsson sights North America after being blown off course 1002AD Leif Ericsson, son of Erik the Red, explores the coast of North America, named them Karland, Helluland and Vinland 1492AD Italian explorer Christopher Columbus lands in the New World when he stumbles across the islands now known as The Bahamas Advertisement

Dr Barrett said: 'Changing tastes could have led to a decline in the walrus ivory market of the Middle Ages.'

But he said ivory exports from Greenland could have stalled for other reasons such as over-hunting; the 'Little Ice Age'  a sustained period of lower temperatures which began in the 14th Century; and the Black Death plague which ravaged Europe.

Dr Barrett added: 'An over reliance on a single commodity, the very thing which gave the society its initial resilience, may have also contained the seeds of its vulnerability.'

He said tusks were exported still attached to the walrus skull and snout, which formed a neat protective package that was broken up at workshops for ivory removal. These remains allowed the study to take place, as DNA extraction from carved artefacts would be far too damaging.

Co-author Dr Bastiaan Star of the University of Oslo, added: 'Until now, there was no quantitative data to support the story about walrus ivory from Greenland.

'Walruses could have been hunted in the north of Russia, and perhaps even in Arctic Norway at that time.

'Our research now proves beyond doubt that much of the ivory traded to Europe during the Middle Ages really did come from Greenland.'
Women form closer relationships with their pet cats than men.

That's according to a study into felines and their owners, which found that women form stronger bonds with pets because they are the more empathetic of the sexes.

Women believe their animals themselves to be more empathetic and are more likely to smile at their cat, talk to their cat and explain the world to them, scientists found.

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Women form closer relationships with their pet cats than men. That's according to a study into felines and their owners, which found that women form stronger bonds with their pets because they are more empathetic than men (stock image)

The study, from the Eotvos Lorand University in Hungary, said women are more likely than men to initiate almost all types of interaction with their cats.

Led by Dr Peter Pongracz, in the university's Department of Ethology, the authors state: 'Women were found in general to have more intense connections with their pets.

'Their interactions involve more repeating, complex behavioural patterns and women are also more empathic with their pets.'

Researchers gave 157 cat owners detailed questionnaires on their pets, finding women were more likely than men to initiate interactions with cats.

This included talking to their cat and explaining that certain foods or items were forbidden, or that the cat would not like them.

It also meant smiling at and greeting their pet or other cats.

Women believe their animals themselves to be more empathetic and are more likely to smile at their cat, talk to their cat and explain the world to them, scientists found (stock image)

Women were more likely than men to see their cat as empathetic, believing the animal wanted their attention and responded to their emotions.

When it comes to emotional 'matching', where owners believe cats recognise if they are happy or smiling, and try to cheer them up, this is reported most by women with older felines, researchers said.

The authors state that 'people who need extra social support will express stronger attachment and emotional bonds towards their cats'.

The study was set up to see if cats are viewed as the 'perfect companion' in the same way as dogs, with the cat-human relationship studied less, according to researchers, because of popular beliefs that cats are 'selfish' and 'unfaithful'.

Emotional matching between cats and owners were judged using questions on whether people believed their cats tried to cheer them up, picked up their emotions, recognised if they were angry or reacted to their smiles.

Owners and pets were also emotionally matched if people said cats started to play when they laughed or looked at objects when they pointed to them.

Older cats with female owners recorded the highest scores for this, while young cats with men matched the least.

The study concludes 'In the case of older cats, there could be more opportunity for learning the subtle signs of emotional matching to each other, and it is also possible that female owners feel stronger emotional bonds with their cat.'

Researchers also discovered cat owners differ from dog owners in more often making cat noises at them.
Virgin Hyperloop One, a US startup developing a near-supersonic rail transit system, has reached an agreement with Spanish state-owned rail infrastructure company Adif to build a $500 million research center in Spain, its first in Europe.

The 19,000-square-meter (204,000-sq-ft) center, which is planned to be open in the tiny village of Bobadilla in the southern province of Malaga by 2020, will develop and test components for Hyperloop systems to improve their safety.

A Hyperloop is a shuttle that travels on magnetic rails, somewhat like a train, but which runs in a tube with little or no air.

In theory, Hyperloops could allow travel faster than the speed of sound.

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Virgin Hyperloop One has reached an agreement with Spanish state-owned rail infrastructure company Adif to build a $500 million research center in Spain, its first in Europe. A Hyperloop One pod recently debuted in Dubai is shown

Virgin Hyperloop One, backed by British tycoon Richard Branson, has been testing its Hyperloop system in Nevada in the United States with speeds reaching 240 miles (386 kilometres) an hour, and is planning three production systems in service by 2021.

'By investing in the development and testing of Virgin Hyperloop One, Spain is extending its long tradition as an innovative, global transport leader.

We are excited to partner with such a forward-thinking country in developing the next generation of transportation,' Virgin Hyperloop One chief Rob Lloyd said in the statement.

Virgin Hyperloop One will receive 126 million euros ($146 million) in public aid in the form of loans and grants to help set up the new centre, the US company Adif said in separate statements.

Adif said the centre will create 250 high skilled jobs while Virgin Hyperloop One said it would 'hire 250-300 high-tech skilled professionals'.

Malaga is quickly becoming a hotbed of high-tech activity.

Hyperloop One, which is developing a system theorized by entrepreneur Elon Musk, is planning to open a research centre to develop and test components for hyperloop systems to improve their safety

Sir Richard Branson speaks to CNBC reporter Hadley Gamble at the hyperloop event in Dubai

WHAT IS THE HYPERLOOP? Hyperloop is a proposed method of travel that would transport people at roughly 700mph between distant locations. It was unveiled by Elon Musk in 2013, who at the time said it could take passengers the 380 miles (610km) from LA to San Francisco in 30 minutes - half the time it takes a plane. It is essentially a long tube that has had the air removed to create a vacuum. For safety reasons, Hyperloop tunnels need escape hatches in case of fire. The tube is suspended off the ground to protect against weather and earthquakes. There are now a number of firms vying to bring the technology to life, including Elon Musk himself, Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, and Virgin Hyperloop One. As several firms vie to create the first operational Hyperloop, Elon Musks vision of a radical transport system that could ferry passengers above land at 760 miles per hour continues to inch closer to reality Advertisement

The province has over 9,000 companies in transport and logistics, as well as the second largest aerospace cluster in Spain, and 20,000 employees in research and development, according to Adif.

Spain's high-speed network is the world's second largest after China's.

Under construction since 1992, 3,200 kilometres (1,990 miles) of tracks spread across the country, from Seville and Malaga at its southern tip, to Santiago de Compostela and Barcelona in the north, and Valencia and Alicante in the east.

About 500 trains are propelled along these high-speed corridors every day, carrying around 36.5 million passengers every year.
Internet users are now spending more than one-third of their time using Google products.

Between the ubiquitous search engine and offshoots such as YouTube and Waze, a new report says Google accounted for over 34% of time spent online in June, according to Axios.

But, Facebook hasnt had the same luck as its competitor.

While it seems Google is only growing, the analysis found that time spent on Facebook has plummeted, even with Instagram and WhatsApp use considered.

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Internet users are spending more than one-third of their time using Google products. Between the search engine and offshoots such as YouTube and Waze, report says Google accounted for 34% of time spent online. Facebook use, on the other hand, is declining. File photo

The new figures from Pivotal Research analyst Brian Wieser suggest Google is dominating much of our time online.

Facebook use, on the other hand, is declining faster than ever, according to Axios, while Snapchat and Twitter havent seen much change.

The report adds support to claims earlier this year that young people are now spending less time on social media, and Facebook in particular.

Boston-based market research company Origin gathered data from 1,000 people born in the year 1994 or later  or, Gen Z.

And, they found that 34 percent of those surveyed had deleted social media permanently, while another 64 percent said they were taking a break.

Many cited their tendency to waste time as a reason for the decision, while others said there was too much negativity on the sites.

Still, not everyone is ready to pull the plug.

Between social media, watching television, and playing video games, a separate report found that adults in the US now spend nearly half of their waking hours looking at a screen.

The new figures from Pivotal Research analyst Brian Wieser suggest Google is dominating much of our time online. File photo

According to New York-based data analytics firm Nielson, overall time spent using these different media has spiked in the past year.

Its become such an issue that even some social media platforms have rolled out tools to help users cut down the time spent on their sites.

This month, Facebook announced a suite of Digital Health Tools that will let users set time limits on their usage.

HOW DO YOU CHECK HOW MUCH TIME YOU SPEND ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM? Facebook and Instagram users can now monitor how much time they spend within the app, thanks to new tools designed to improve your digital health. The new feature is found in the settings menu of each app. For Facebook users on iOS, tap on the three line symbol in the bottom-right corner of the app to launch the settings menu. Android users need to tap the same symbol, but will find it at the top-right. Scroll down the settings menu and tap on the 'Your Time on Facebook' option. For Instagram, users will need to load the settings page, and then scroll down to the option marked 'Your Activity'. Both apps include a breakdown of the exact number of minutes you've spent on Facebook and Instagram using a particular device. This data is presented in the style of a bar chat, with users able to tap any bar to see the total time spent for that particular day. Scrolling further down the page, Facebook and Instagram include the option to set a daily reminder that sends an alert after you've reached the amount of time you want to spend on the app for that day. You can change or cancel the reminder at any time by heading back to the same settings menu. In the same settings menu on Instagram and Facebook, you can tap on 'Notification Settings' to access an updated 'Mute Push Notifications' tool. This lets you mute all notifications from the social network app for a predetermined period of time. Advertisement

When the time is up, theyll be sent a notification.

Facebook users will also be able to mute notifications during specific windows of time to avoid distractions.

Facebook-owned Instagram also recently debuted its All Caught Up feature that let you know when youve seen all new recent posts, in a move to stop needless scrolling.
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You'd think banning the laws of physics would be impossible, but there are a handful of places where officials have given it a go - by outlawing death.

Over in Longyearbyen, one of the world's most northerly cities on the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, bodies don't decompose in the permafrost so death is prohibited and those on the verge of passing away are flown to the mainland.

Meanwhile in 1999 Jose Rubio, the mayor of Lanjaron in southern Spain, made death illegal because he felt the town's cemetery was too overcrowded for souls to get a decent eternal rest. Scroll down to learn more about the morbidly fascinating spots where the Grim Reaper is outlawed.

Itsukushima, Japan

To maintain its purity, death was apparently banned on the sacred Japanese island of Itsukushima until the late 19th century

The Japanese island of Itsukushima, also known as Miyajima, is considered to be a sacred place and it is home to many ancient shrines and temples.

To maintain its purity, death was apparently banned until the late 19th century, along with childbirth, and residents were shipped to nearby islands to be treated.

There are still no cemeteries or hospitals on the small outcrop.

Longyearbyen, Norway

In Norway's Longyearbyen, one of the world's most northerly cities, located on the archipelago of Svalbard, permafrost and frigid temperatures prevent the dead from decomposing

In Norway's Longyearbyen, one of the world's most northerly cities, located on the archipelago of Svalbard, permafrost and frigid temperatures prevent the dead from decomposing.

To prevent disease from spreading, authorities decided to ban people from dying with the ruling enforced in 1950.

Those who are nearing death are flown to the mainland of Norway to live out their final days.

Lanjaron, Spain

In 1999 Jose Rubio, the mayor of Lanjaron in southern Spain, banned death. It was reported that he felt the town's cemetery was too crowded for a soul to get decent eternal rest

In 1999 Jose Rubio, the mayor of Lanjaron in southern Spain, banned death.

It was reported that he felt the town's cemetery was too overcrowded for souls to get decent eternal rest. The area's 4,000 residents were advised to remain alive while municipal officials shopped for land to house a new graveyard.

Rubio issued an edict ordering people 'to take utmost care of their health so they do not die until town hall takes the necessary steps to acquire land suitable for our deceased to rest in glory'. It's unclear if a new burial site was ever found.

Sarpourenx, France

In 2008, the mayor of the small French village of Sarpourenx issued a decree banning residents from dying in his territory unless they owned a spot in the overcrowded cemetery

In 2008, the mayor of the French village of Sarpourenx issued a decree banning residents from dying in his territory unless they owned a spot in the overcrowded cemetery.

Mayor Gerard Lalanne warned that there would be a 'severe punishment' for offenders.

He told AFP that he decided to take the radical measure in protest against a legal ruling preventing him from enlarging the burial ground in the village of 260 people. There is no word on whether Lalanne's wishes were ever granted.

Sellia, Italy

In 2015, the medieval village of Sellia in Italy banned people from getting sick in a bid to save its dwindling and ageing population

In 2015, the medieval village of Sellia in Italy banned people from getting sick in a bid to save its dwindling and ageing population.

Davide Zicchinella, the town's mayor, signed a decree stating that residents were forbidden from getting sick and they should put their health first.

In 1960, the town had 1,300 citizens, but by 2015 there were just 537 remaining with 60 per cent aged over 65.

Biritiba Mirim, Brazil

In 2005 officials in the Brazilian town of Biritiba Mirim, 45 miles east of Sao Paulo, proposed outlawing death because the local cemetery had reached full capacity

In 2005 officials in the Brazilian town of Biritiba Mirim, 45 miles east of Sao Paulo, proposed outlawing death because the local cemetery had reached full capacity at 50,000 grave sites and crypts were starting to be shared.

Mayor Roberto Pereira said the bill was meant as a protest against federal regulations that prevented him from creating a new cemetery. His request to extent the burial ground was denied under environmental rules as it ran over an area of rich farmland.

Pereira's bill warned that offenders would be 'held responsible for their acts' but there was no word on what the punishment would be and if his proposal was ever pushed through. In the meantime, Pereira urged residents to take care of their health 'in order not to die'.

Cugnaux, France

In 2007, Cugnaux in south-western France banned death after it could not get permission to open a new cemetery

In 2007, Cugnaux in south-western France banned death after it could not get permission to open a new cemetery.

The town, which is home to around 17,000 residents, was subsequently granted permission to enlarge its local cemetery.

The story inspired the small French village of Sarpourenx to take the same action the following year.
A campaign group is urging the government to ban adverts that promote elephant rides on foreign holidays.

It wants a new law that would make it illegal to promote the practice in the UK, saying that elephants are snatched from their mothers and forced to undergo brutal training so they can be used in tourist activities.

And now members of the group, Save The Asian Elephant (STAE), have handed a petition of more than 200,000 signatures to Downing Street urging Prime Minister Theresa May to support the new law.

A campaign group is calling on the government to ban adverts that promote elephant rides on foreign holidays (file picture)

The opportunities for tourists to ride elephants in hot spots across Asia such as India and Thailand are plentiful.

Holidaymakers can also watch the creatures perform in circuses and even pay to help wash and feed the animals.

But STAE says that in order to round up elephants to be used in tourists activities, the young are poached in the wild so they can be 'trained' through a brutal practice called 'pajan'.

In a letter to Mrs May, the campaign group says: 'This involved isolation in a wooden cage, starvation and dehydration and then beating and stabbing with iron bars, spikes and planks into complete submission for brutal use in the tourist industry.

Save the Asian Elephant says that the animals are snatched from their mothers and forced to undergo brutal training so they can be used in tourist activities

'This process is so prolonged and violent that it is believed at least half of young elephants die during or after pajan.

'This brutality is reinforced constantly throughout the elephants' lives by more beatings and torture.

'Often captive elephants, tortured beyond endurance, attack tourists, sometimes fatally. Yet the UK tourist industry continues recklessly to send its customers to such "attractions".

'The UK travel and tourist market lacks any regulation that protects either the elephant from such exploitation or tourists visiting such facilities, unknowing as to the brutality involved and danger to themselves.'

This elephant at Thailand's Island Safari resort in Samui was filmed chained up and rocking for weeks after it killed a Scottish tourist during a ride in February 2016

Another video at the same park, pictured, showed a guide jabbing a docile elephant with a metal bar. The footage prompted further outcry

The campaign group says that a poll carried out last month shows that 89 per cent of respondents believe the brutal treatment of the elephants is 'unjustified'.

Meanwhile, STAE also wants the Association of British Travel Agents to urge its members to only promote ethical elephant sanctuaries and wildlife reserves, where the creatures are only observed from a distance and aren't forced into rides, trekking, chains or costumes.

They are also calling on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to end the practice of Pajan in his country and work with the UK in adopting elephant sanctuaries.

The campaign has received support from celebrities including Harry Potter actress Evanna Lynch, Downton Abbey star Peter Egan and Stanley Johnson, the father of Boris Johnson.

In February of 2016, Scottish tourist Gareth Crowe was killed and his stepdaughter Eilidh Hughes injured when a bull elephant threw them to the ground and attacked them during a ride at Thailand's Island Safari resort in Samui.

STAE says that a poll carried out last month shows that 89 per cent of respondents believe the brutal treatment of the elephants is 'unjustified'

Soon afterwards, footage emerged of the elephant - which was kept chained up for at least a fortnight following the attack - rocking from side to side and showing signs of profound distress.

Another video at the same park showed a guide jabbing a docile elephant with a metal bar.

Park managers told MailOnline at the time that they had made two major changes to its elephant treks since Mr Crowe's death. It now uses only female elephants for rides and mahouts (handlers) are barred from getting off elephants to take pictures of tourists.
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Spinning and somersaulting through the air, these are the daredevil divers who leap from stomach-churning heights off the side of cliffs.

The athletes travel around the world throwing themselves off 90ft-high platforms as part of the 2018 Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series.

And earlier this week they were at Sisikon next to Lake Lucerne in Switzerland for the latest round of the extreme contest, which saw England's six-time champion Gary Hunt claim first prize in the men's contest.

Canadian mother-of-three Lysanne Richard came out on top for the women.

Each heat attracts thousands of spectators, with many watching from the water.

Scroll down to see incredible, dizzying pictures from the jaw-dropping Lake Lucerne event.

A huge array of boats and inflatables can be seen waiting on the lake as the competition gets underway. Pictured in a handstand is Italian diver Alessandro De Rose

Diver Andy Jones from the USA leaps off the side of the platform into Lake Lucerne in Switzerland

Mr Jones, on another dive, comes plummeting towards the water as the judges look on from their boat on the lake

The diving platform is attached to the side of a cliff. Pictured diving off backwards is Michal Navratil of the Czech Republic

Jonathan Paredes from Mexico (pictured) finished second in the men's competition

British diver Gary Hunt somersaults through the air. He went on to win this leg of the contest

The thousands who gathered to watch the diving look up from their boats and dinghys as Gary Hunt performs

Mr Hunt can be seen through the trees as he somersaults towards the water. The extreme competition travels to different locations around the world

Female competitor Ginger Huber of the USA jumps down from a 21 metre (68ft) high board at Lake Lucerne

Britain's Jessica Macaulay brings her legs towards her chest as she somersaults off the diving board towards the spectators below

Brazilian diver Jacqueline Valente opts to perform a handstand as part of one of her spectacular dives at the competition

Matthias Appenzeller of Switzerland prepares to hit the water during the competition

Andy Jones of the United States dives from the 27-metre (90ft) platform, left, and hurtles upside down at one point (right)

The traditional Swiss town of Sisikon and the beautiful green hills can be seen in the background as Sergio Guzman from Mexico performs

The waters of Lake Lucerne glisten in the background as American diver Steve LoBue prepares for his jump

The competition at the weekend saw cliff diving return to Sisikon for the first time in eight years. Pictured is Swiss competitor Matthias Appenzeller

The pictures from the heat are simply stunning. Here LoBue plunges downwards as the awestruck crowd watches. He finished sixth overall

A woman in traditional alpine dress plays an alphorn at the start of the competition on Lake Lucerne
Tourism chiefs in Lithuania's capital have come under fire for a sexualised advertising campaign to promote the city as the Pope prepares to visit next month.

The campaign for Vilnius features a woman lying on what looks like a bed sheet printed with a map of Europe. Her hand grips Lithuania in a way that suggests sexual pleasure.

The text above her reads: 'Vilnius, the G-spot of Europe. Nobody knows where it is, but when you find it, it's amazing.'

Tourism chiefs in Lithuania's capital have come under fire for this sexualised advertising campaign to promote the city

The campaign has been criticised by the Catholic Church and comes as Pope Francis prepares to visit the country next month.

His tour of Baltic countries is supposed to start in Lithuania, where Catholics are the religious majority.

Lithuanian priests expressed concerns that the ad used 'women's sexuality for advertising' and gave 'wrong ideas' about Vilnius, a city with a population of 540,000.

The government had earlier originally asked Vilnius officials to postpone the ad's launch until after the papal visit.

And even though Lithuanian Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis said he does not find the campaign, set to be launched on Thursday in London and Berlin, offensive to standards of public decency, he acknowledged its timing was 'rather weird'.

'I think it's a strange advertising choice, but I believe it does not cross the line in a democratic country,' Mr Skvernelis told Lithuanian public broadcaster LRT.

The city of Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. The government had earlier originally asked Vilnius officials to postpone the ad's launch until after the papal visit

'As to the timing, we are speaking about a very important visit to Lithuania,' the prime minister added, referring to the pope's visit.

'So perhaps these steps should have been co-ordinated, but that's the decision of Vilnius.'

However, Inga Romanovskiene, the manager of the Go Vilnius tourism agency behind the campaign, called the pope's visit 'a very important event but said the city also wants to attract new visitors'.

She explained: 'When it comes to attracting the modern tourist we're dealing with a very high level of competition with other European cities and countries investing heavily in destination marketing.

'The young creatives who came up with "Vilnius; the G-spot of Europe" presented an extremely engaging idea to drive interest in the city.

Pope Francis, pictured, is scheduled to visit Lithuania in September during a tour of the mainly Catholic Baltic nations

'Go Vilnius looks forward to welcoming new international visitors to Vilnius and continuing to promote the city's best tourism attractions and experiences.'

The controversial campaign concept was created by Lithuanian advertising students who sought to draw international attention to Vilnius and its potential as an alternative European city-break destination.

One of the campaign's student creators, Jurgis Ramanauskas, added: 'Few people know where Vilnius really is, but when they arrive they fall in love with the city.

'This insight came from our conversations with international visitors, and we formulated the idea that Vilnius is synonymous with the G-spot theory  nobody knows where it is, but, when it is discovered, everyone is very pleased!'
Delta Air Lines is trialling a new food service on its international flights with economy customers getting restaurant-style three-course meals with cocktails.

The Atlanta-based carrier is testing out the new service on flights between Portland, Oregon, and Tokyo.

If the trial proves popular, Delta could roll out the concept to all of its international flights by the end of the year.

Delta Air Lines is trialling a new food service on its international flights for economy customers (file picture)

According to the Chicago Business Journal, the new service sees passengers in the economy cabin served each course separately.

Sample Delta meal, served in courses DRINK: Choice of bellini, three brands of sparkling water and an array of other cocktails APPETIZER: Salad with quinoa, roasted grapes and pine nuts ENTREE: Pasta with cauliflower and walnuts in a cream sauce DESSERT: Haagen-Dazs ice cream Advertisement

Before the meal service begins those on board are offered 'welcome bubbles', which includes a choice of three Bellinis or a sparkling soft drink.

Each passenger is also handed a printed menu detailing their choices with dishes that could include a quinoa salad as a starter, a main course of pasta with cauliflower in a cream sauce and a dessert of Haagen-Dazs ice cream.

Rather than the usual meal trays, the food is served on white dishes and passengers are also given white cloth napkins rather than paper.

And although the cutlery is still made from plastic, it is described as being more robust and sleek.

A spokesman for the airline told MailOnline Travel: 'Delta constantly listens to customer feedback and is now testing innovative ways to make our culinary experience on board feel more like dining at a favourite restaurant.

'As part of that we are conducting a test on select international flights where flight attendants will deliver an enhanced main cabin dining experience that well use to gather customer feedback.'

The Atlanta-based carrier is said to be testing out the new service on its flights between Portland, Oregon, and Tokyo. Pictured is one of the airline's regional jets

However, the new menu is not the only thing on board Delta cabins that have been updated.

The airline has also rolled out new premium economy seats and added more Delta One business class suites to its fleet.

Meanwhile earlier this year, over 60,000 Delta Air Lines employees across the world were kitted out with new uniforms by top designer Zac Posen.

The new uniforms see Delta's traditional red, white and blue infused with new hues, which have been dubbed 'passport plum' (purple), 'cruising cardinal' (red) and 'ground speed graphite' (grey).
MANILA, July 8 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines is exploring ways to shorten the processing of visa on arrivals for Chinese tourists, making their entry into the country faster and hassle-free, local media reported on Sunday.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Benito Bengzon said the Department of Justice (DOJ) has already agreed to look into the proposal.

He said talks are underway between the two departments to "gradually make easier" the visa processing especially for Chinese tourists.

As part of the plan, Bengzon said the government is mulling to deploy Mandarin-speaking personnel to airports to better communicate with arriving Chinese tourists.

In August last year, the Philippine government allowed visa upon arrival for Chinese visitors who are part of tour groups of DOT-accredited operators and businessmen. Applications should be filed 10 days before arrival, with a visa fee of 25 U.S. dollars plus a 10 pesos (19 U.S. cents)-legal research fee.

DOT data showed that Chinese tourists are the second top foreign visitors to the Philippines, next to South Korea.

From January to May this year, the DOT said 559,289 Chinese visitors traveled to the Philippines, a 43.81 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

South Korea remained the Philippines' number one source of foreign tourists at 1.6 million last year.

Aside from Chinese and South Korean tourists, the DOT is also targeting tourists from India and Japan.

[ Editor: LYQ ]
Former Bachelor In Paradise couple Sam Cochrane and Tara Pavlovic are locked in a social media stoush after he made extraordinary claims she physically and verbally abused him.

Sam, 34, accused Tara of violent behaviour before their June split in a bombshell interview with Woman's Day on Monday, prompting the Queensland nanny, 28, to respond by branding him 'emotionally abusive'.

Tara later admitted that she did hit her then-fiance at their engagement party, but alleged he 'pushed her' to do it and insisted her actions were 'out of character'.

It's war! Former Bachelor In Paradise couple Sam Cochrane (left) and Tara Pavlovic (right) are locked in a bitter stoush on social media after he made extraordinary claims she physically and verbally abused him

In his bombshell Woman's Day interview, Sam alleged that Tara hit him and would 'verbally attack' him during their tumultuous relationship.

After the magazine hit newsstands, Tara wrote a comment on Instagram, in which she admitted she once hit him at their engagement party.

In the middle of a heated argument, Tara claimed she 'hit [Sam] and cried and told him to get out of my hotel'.

He said, she said: Sam, 34, accused Tara of violent behaviour before their June split in a bombshell interview with Woman's Day on Monday, prompting the nanny, 28, to respond by alleging he was 'emotionally abusive'. Pictured: Tara at a fashion show in Sydney on May 31

'This was so out of character for me, which is why I left when he he begged me back for weeks,' she explained.

In another Instagram Story post responding to the claims, Tara alleged that Sam was 'emotionally abusive' during their six-month relationship.

'I am getting so many messages from women who have been through the same thing I recently went through,' she said.

The way they were: Sam got engaged to Tara within four weeks of meeting her

'Thank you everyone for sharing your experiences with me and sending your love. I feel lucky that I was in a similar relationship when I was younger.

'So, after six months I was able to recognise the signs and walk away without guilt when he cried begging me back.

'For any girls struggling in an emotionally abusive relationship, there is an article I read about dating a narcissist that really helped me understand what was going on. I've done a swipe-up link for anyone who wants to read it. You're not crazy.'

Hitting back: After Sam's interview with Woman's Day hit newsstands, Tara responded by alleging that her ex-fiance was 'emotionally abusive' during their six-month relationship

Tara had previously shared an Instagram post about dating a 'narcissist', but did not mention Sam by name.

'There are terrible people in this world. I've learned that over the past six months,' she wrote. 'I reached a low I never knew I could reach and I turned into a person I have never been before. I am a good person and that's all that matters.'

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Tara Pavlovic for comment.

Cryptic: Tara (pictured with a friend) had previously shared an Instagram post about dating a 'narcissist', but did not mention Sam by name

Last week, Tara told Daily Mail Australia that she felt 'relieved' following her split and alleged that her relationship with Sam was 'toxic'.

'Sam left me after a fight thinking I would beg for him back - he always threatened to leave and played games,' she alleged.

'But this time I told him to never speak to me again and then he begged for me back for weeks.'

She claimed: 'The relationship was just the most toxic thing. I feel the biggest sense of relief now that it's all over. I finally feel like I'm myself again.'

Whirlwind romance: The Bachelor In Paradise finale was filmed in Fiji last year and aired in late April

Sam's allegations come weeks after his mother, Rosie Wynter, took a thinly-veiled swipe at Tara and implied there was more to the story surrounding their split.

'You cannot imagine the story behind it and I opened my heart and home. I can't say anymore... please understand. There is so much to it,' she claimed on Instagram.

Sam and Tara confirmed their split via Instagram in June.

They got engaged during the Bachelor in Paradise finale, which was filmed in Fiji last year and aired in late April.

Sam proposed with a GS Diamonds ring believed to be worth $11,000. Following their break-up, he announced plans to auction it off for charity.
Ethan Hawke sat down with GQ magazine to discuss the highs and lows of his professional and personal life.

The actor spoke candidly about his struggles to find work in the 2000s, hot off the success of Training Day. At 30-years-old he flew to Los Angeles, California in the hopes of landing something  anything  to continue moving forward as an actor.

I had to go audition a couple times. That was when I knew the 90s were over, he said.

Ethan Hawke opened up to GQ magazine about the highs and lows of his professional and personal life

I was in a unique position, which is that I was only 30-years-old, and I was washed up. All my friends were going to audition for Saving Private Ryan. And I couldnt even get an audition for it, because they knew me and didnt want me. Its like, Theres no need for me to audition, because we know him. No, not him.

Ethan, 47, eventually managed to find work in various types of roles. He told GQ that he took several roles to pay his bills, but the lower paying parts are his best.

My best movies are not the ones that pay me: the Before trilogy, Boyhood, First Reformed, Dead Poets SocietyI pay my alimony with my acting, I pay my kids health insurance with my acting, I pay everybodys tuition with my acting, he said.

Asked about the key to longevity in Hollywood, the actor said: Can I tell you something funny? Paul Schrader and I were driving around doing Q and As, so I said to Schrader, I said, Hey, why is it that so many of your generation, the greats  [Martin] Scorsese, [Al] Pacino, [Gene] Hackman, Dustin Hoffman, [Jack] Nicholson, [Robert] De Niro  why are so many of them not doing the same kind of work that they did back in the 70s? Is it that the culture doesnt want any more? Did they get bored of it? And his answer was really surprising. He said, The middle-class lifestyle isnt enough.

And ultimately a middle-class lifestyle was always enough for me.

Ethan also opened up about getting nominated for an Oscar for Training Day, which occurred around the same time as his 2004 divorce from Uma Thurman.

It was the best moment of my career. Like, Maybe, maybe, you could be commercially viable. But I got divorced and my personal life fell apart. I dont know if you feel this way, but when youre depressed, its really easy to see everything that is fake about other people and life, and I just started seeing all that, he explained.

How phony celebrity was, how phony everything is. You channel your inner Holden Caulfield, you know?

Who is Ethan Hawke?

Ethan Hawke is an American actor from Austin, Texas. He was born November 6, 1970.

After his parents divorce in 1974, Ethan and his mother moved to New York and settled in Brooklyn, where he lived until he was 10.

At that time his mother remarried and they moved to New Jersey. He graduated from Hun School of Princeton in 1988 and went on to pursue his Hollywood dreams.

He got his start as an actor in 1985, appearing in Explorers. His big break came in 1989 when he landed a part in Dead Poets Society.

From there, Ethan went on to appear in Reality Bites, Before Sunrise, Training Day, Boyhood, Gattaca, Hamlet, Before the Devil Knows Youre Dead, First Reformed and more.

Ethans known for acting on the silver screen, but also has an illustrious career as a theatre actor. He appeared in his first Broadway play in 1992 when he was cast in The Seagull.

The actor was nominated for a Tony Award for best featured actor in a play in 2007 for his part in The Coast of Utopia. He was then nominated for a Drama Desk Award for outstanding director of a play in 2010 for Sam Shephards A Lie of the Mind.

Ethan married Uma Thurman in May 1998. They have two children together: Maya and Levon. A year after their sons birth, Ethan and Uma separated before divorcing in 2004.

Ethan Hawke net worth

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Ethan Hawkes net worth is about $55 million (42.4m).

How does Ethan Hawke make his money?

Ethan Hawke makes the majority of his money as an actor, though hes also enjoyed a successful career as a writer and director.

Hes appeared in well-known films like Dead Poets Society, Reality Bites, Gattaca, and Boyhood. Ethans also acted in and directed plays.

He appeared in The Seagull and The Coast of Utopia. Ethan then directed Sam Shepards A Lie of the Mind, which was nominated for a Drama Desk Award.

Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman's divorce

Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman divorced in 2004, after nearly six years of marriage. At the time, rumors were swirling that Ethan had been unfaithful.

Ethan married again in 2008. He and Ryan Shawhughes, who briefly worked as a nanny for Ethan and Uma, tied the knot in 2008.

Speaking with The Guardian about how his relationship began, Ethan said: There were never any scandalous thoughts or actions back then.

In the years that followed, my marriage disintegrated due to many pressures, none of which were remotely connected to Ryan.

Ethan continued: I know people imagine some kind of Sound of Music type love affair, but the truth is by the time Ryan and I were falling in love, it had been a long while since I had employed her.

Around the same time he told Elle that he and Uma probably should have never married in the first place.

There was this discovery that the male brain isnt done until 28. I definitely think my frontal lobe was not finished, he said.

I had no business taking vows that would last more than two weeks.
She recently stripped down to nothing but a $2,000 Prada handbag to mark the release of her new album, Survive The Summer.

Now, Australian rapper Iggy Azalea has given fans another generous glimpse of her eye-popping figure during a day on the water in South Beach, Miami on Monday.

The 28-year-old star took to Instagram to flaunt her peachy posterior and cleavage in a very skimpy zebra print bikini as she sunned herself on a yacht.

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Welcome to Miami! Iggy Azalea (pictured) flaunts her eye-popping assets in a VERY skimpy zebra print bikini as she suns herself on a yacht in South Beach

She showed off her enviable curves - and forearm of tattoos, as she lay in the sun

Iggy posted a series of clips and photos of her sundrenched boating outing.

The Fancy hitmaker was captured striking a number of smoldering poses as she paraded around the vessel in the barely-there swimsuit and a pair of trendy cat-eye shades.

She turned around to display her peachy posterior before glancing over her shoulder to pout for the camera.

Busting-out! Earlier on Monday, the superstar posted two racy clips of her showcasing her ample assets in the plunging triangle bikini

You're so fancy! The Fancy hitmaker (pictured) was captured striking a number of smoldering poses as she paraded around the vessel in the barely-there swimsuit and a pair of trendy cat-eye shades

Earlier on Monday, the superstar posted two racy clips of her showcasing her ample assets in the plunging triangle bikini.

Iggy panned the lens over her buxom bikini-clad body, offering fans an almighty peek at her voluptuous curves and peaches and cream complexion.

The sexy sighting comes after Iggy uploaded nude pictures of herself last week to celebrate the release of her new EP.

She protected her modesty by strategically placing a $2,000 Prada handbag over her nether-regions as she posed in a pair of neon high heels.

Bodacious body! Iggy panned the lens over her buxom bikini-clad body, offering fans a peek at her voluptuous curves and peaches and cream complexion

That's one way to celebrate! Iggy recently stripped off completely NAKED to celebrate releasing her new album... and used a $2,000 Prada bag to protect her modesty

'S.T.S is out ahhhhhhh!!!!!!,' Iggy captioned the snap.

The Australian star, who hails from Byron's Mullumbimby - recently released her new single Kream, which is featured on the new album.

The Work hitmaker collaborated with rapper Tyga on the new track.

Back to it: The Australian star, who hails from Byron's Mullumbimby recently released her new single Kream, which is featured on the new album

The two fueled romance rumours earlier in the year, but it turned out the pair were spending time together working on Iggy's latest single Kream that was released in early July.

On Sunday evening, Iggy and Tyga hit the stage at LIV Nightclub in Miami to perform their Kream collaboration.
Over the past few months, a group of citizen journalists have launched a campaign to expose Married At First Sight star Tracey Jewel's alleged 'lies'.

And on Tuesday, Tracey released a lengthy, rambling statement addressing the various claims made against her - including allegations that she ran a fraudulent competition promising a holiday in Malaysia and pretended to have cervical cancer.

'It seems I've been trialled by social media,' she wrote. 'Although I've had some business challenges I have resolved with those people privately, I have not been charged legally or criminally for anything. Instead I've been vilified by people that have nothing personally to do with any of the allegations they are throwing my way.'

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'I have not been charged legally or criminally for anything': Married At First Sight's Tracey Jewel (pictured) has released a rambling statement addressing claims she ran a fraudulent competition and lied about having cervical cancer

Taking aim at the 'trolls' she claims have destroyed her life, Tracey continued: 'It's a feeding frenzy where online we seem to have lost all our inhibitions and can give any opinion we want freely and brutally so.

'Hard-fought reputations such as my own have been wrecked by these comments and shares. Any supposed allegations or misdemeanours are taken out of context, detailed, documented as well as dissected to death, leading to a so-called guilty verdict.

'There's no boundaries anymore and the consequences can be people's lives literally destroyed.

'This is my third and final statement to clear the accusations and gossip around the media and social media.

'It disturbs me greatly the fact that these trolls and cyber bullies and their accusations can have such a monumental affect on my life that has seen me lose my marketing clients, my sponsors, my radio show contract and affect numerous business colleagues and their businesses, my friends and my family.'

Controversy: Addressing her competition offering customers who bought her self-help book the opportunity to win a 'wellness holiday' in Malaysia, which has so far yielded no winner, she insisted 'the terms and conditions for this have always been on [her] website'

No winner? Tracey explained the winner of the Malaysian holiday competition 'was unable to take the major prize so it was redrawn. We are still waiting to hear back from the redrawn winner and we will be giving her seven days to respond before redrawing.' Pictured: Tracey's Instagram post from June advertising the competition

Addressing her competition offering customers who bought her book This Goddess Means Business the opportunity to win a 'wellness holiday' in Malaysia, which has so far yielded no winner, she insisted 'the terms and conditions for this have always been on [her] website'.

Tracey added: 'There was numerous ways to enter this competition either in person at a book launch, event, expo or online via social media or my website. The three minor prize winners were able to be contacted and mailed their prizes.

'The main prize winner advised in writing she was unable to take the major prize so it was redrawn. We are still waiting to hear back from the redrawn winner and we will be giving her seven days to respond before redrawing.'

It is unclear in her statement who else Tracey is referring to when she says 'we'.

Before issuing this clarification, many of Tracey's Instagram followers were asking questions about the competition on Instagram. Several of these comments were deleted, presumably by Tracey.

Clarification: Tracey also responded to claims that she implied she had cervical cancer

Tracey also responded to claims that she implied she suffered from cervical cancer.

In a since-deleted Instagram post from earlier this year, Tracey wrote after a visit to the hairdressers: 'Hair never grows back after cervical cancer the same way, thank you for always being so amazing and making my hair look fabulous!'

It was reported by Woman's Day in June that Tracey's claim to have had 'cervical cancer' was inaccurate as doctors had actually discovered CIN 3 precancerous cells.

CIN 3 is not cancer, but can potentially develop into cervical cancer after several years if it is not detected and treated. CIN 3 precancerous cells also do not cause hair loss.

Evidence: In a since-deleted Instagram post (above) from earlier this year, Tracey wrote after a visit to the hairdressers: 'Hair never grows back after cervical cancer the same way, thank you for always being so amazing and making my hair look fabulous!'

In her statement released this week, Tracey wrote: 'I apologised that my comment on Instagram was taken completely out of context.

'A written, off-the-cuff sentence of a post of me saying my hair never grew back properly and I love my hair extensions was a short context of what I clarified later via many media statements was that I was diagnosed with CIN3 abnormal cells that I have two operations to remove after giving birth six weeks earlier.

'Due to the medications, antibiotics and giving up breastfeeding, my hair and skin changed with these combining factors and was a very traumatic time.

'I have apologised several times if anyone took this one Instagram comment in the wrong way it was not my intention to mislead anyone.

'It has only been my intention to support the ACCF [Australian Cervical Cancer Foundation] with their education in Pap smears and my CIN3 experience.

'I removed the post because I didn't want to bring any negative attention to the ACCF, which unfortunately has had to deal with a lot of trolling and hate because of this. They are an amazing organisation that doesn't deserve this hate.'

Expose: It was reported by Woman's Day in June that Tracey's claim to have had 'cervical cancer' was inaccurate as doctors had actually discovered CIN 3 precancerous cells. In her statement, Tracey wrote: 'I apologised that my comment was taken completely out of context'

Finally, Tracey addressed questions that have been raised about profits from her book sales supposedly being donated to charities.

'My 2016 book [Don't Mess With The Goddess] self published through Animal Dreaming stated some proceeds would be donated to the Patricia Giles Centre,' Tracey explained.

(The Patricia Giles Centre, based in Perth, offers safe crisis accommodation and counselling for women and children affected by domestic violence.)

'Over 100 beauty packs were purchased with the proceeds and donated to this charity for Christmas 2016,' she added.

Statement: Finally, Tracey addressed questions that have been raised about profits from her book sales supposedly being donated to charities

Tracey continued: 'For the current book, This Goddess Means Business, part [of the] proceeds will be donated to Kiss Violence Against Women Goodbye and, as per the agreement with them and my book publishing contract, book royalties and subsequent charity proceeds are paid semi annually, which will be December 2018.

'Money was also raised with cash donations for raffle prizes at book launch events held in June 2018 for the ACCF and Friends with Dignity. Due to my travel, these amounts were not finalised and paid and an agreement was made with the charities to pay them by 31 August 2018. Fifty per cent part payments have now been paid.

'Two beauty bag donations of $20 each, totally $40, were purchased online and due to me being away these were missed. They have been subsequently refunded.'

'All book orders have been mailed since June 2018 to current,' she concluded.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted ACCF, Friends with Dignity and Kiss Violence Against Women Goodbye for comment.
She's currently enjoying a well-earned holiday in Europe.

And Lisa Wilkinson, 58, has revealed the secret to her breathtaking Instagram snaps.

The Project co-host has been flooding the social media site with picturesque photos of her adventure through Paris and Italy and she said the stunning images are the result of one specific tool.

'Lots of you have been asking about it': The Project's Lisa Wilkinson reveals the secret behind her breathtaking holiday snaps as she enjoys a well-earned break in Europe. Pictured here in Italy on Sunday

'Lots of you have been asking about what I've been using to take all my travel pics on this trip,' she wrote in an Instagram post from Italy on Sunday.

'...I'm taking all my pics (except for the selfies) on a zippy little Canon S120 with a great zoom lens 5xIS. Perfect for travelling.

The savvy businesswoman went on to plug an upcoming exhibition she has in collaboration with Canon.

Work hard, play hard! Lisa is currently jet-setting across Europe with her husband Peter FitzSimons (left). The couple are pictured here in Paris on July 29

Lisa began hosting The Project in January after her abrupt departure from Channel Nine's Today show and she took time off last week to relax with her husband, Peter FitzSimons.

The happy couple began their dream holiday in London, before heading to Paris.

They're currently in Italy, hitting the trendy cliff-side village of Positano on the Amalfi Coast.

Holiday mode: Lisa began hosting The Project in January after her abrupt departure from Channel Nine's Today show and she took time off last week to relax with her husband Peter

On Saturday, she shared a photo of herself riding a red fish boat after dining at a local seafood restaurant.

'If you're ever in this part of the world, I can't recommend lunch here highly enough,' she gushed to her followers.

'I can't recommend lunch here highly enough!' On Saturday, the 58-year-old shared a photo of herself riding a red fish boat after dining at a local seafood restaurant

Relaxing: Lisa shared a sneaky snap of husband Peter kicking back in the fish boat

She then followed up with a photo from Le Sirenuse, a 5-star luxury boutique hotel that she and Peter are staying at.

'View from the stunning @lesirenuse hotel in Positano,' she wrote.

Europe is a favourite destination of Lisa's, with the brunette beauty holidaying there in 2015 and 2017.

Luxury: The Project panelist posted a photo from Le Sirenuse, a 5-star luxury boutique hotel that she and Peter are staying at

Lisa and Peter left for their European vacation last month, beginning with a whistle-stop tour of London.

In October last year, the couple celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary by renewing their vows at Sydney's Balmoral Beach.

Lisa is currently a panelist on Network Ten's The Project, after leaving Channel Nine last year following a pay dispute with management.
The problem with Made In Chelsea: Croatia could be summed up in only two words  Love Island.

MiCs latest summer series had the same blue skies but otherwise coming after eight weeks of Love Island, everything was inferior: the beauties in their bikinis, the boys in their trunks, and of course the quality of the storylines and scripted banter.

Even the music wasnt as good.

Back on: The problem with Made In Chelsea: Croatia could be summed up in only two words  Love Island (pictured Olivia Bentley)

The comedy shots of Ollie Lockes bum were embarrassing while compared to lads like Wes and Josh Jamie Laing and Sam Thompson were just buffoons. As for Digby he was still the biggest bore who had ever appeared on television.

It was saying something that even Digby found the opening episodes principal sub-plot completely tedious.

If it was a struggle to feign interest in these characters love lives, it was hard to see why anyone would care less about the friendship between Olivia Bentley and Sam Thompson.

Drama: MiCs latest summer series had the same blue skies but otherwise coming after eight weeks of Love Island, everything was inferior (pictured Sam Thompson)

The only thing less interesting about them falling out was them making up  as they did here.

Personally I just think its all a bit pathetic ! harrumphed Digby, for once speaking for us all.

Sophie Hermann the searingly astute German similarly summed up young Miles in one bitchy quip.

On/off: It was saying something that even Digby found the opening episodes principal sub-plot completely tedious

Mango?! Who picks mango?! Jamie Laing scoffed about his rivals choice of ice cream.

Children! snorted Sophie with a direct hit.

As for the girls, newcomers like Tabitha were even duller than their predecessors. (OK, maybe not Melissa.)

On the scene: As for the girls, newcomers like Tabitha were even duller than their predecessors. (OK, maybe not Melissa.)

Habbs pronounced Croatia as Crow-A-shire  as if it was in the Home Counties.

Finally when she saw her date with Sam consisted of lobster and champagne on a yacht, her reaction summed up how totally phony the whole thing was. (Worse than ever.)

This is the nicest thing anyones ever done for me! Habbs told Sam.

Presumably he passed the message on to the shows producer.
Nick 'The Honey Badger' Cummins is hoping to find true love on the upcoming season of The Bachelor reality show.

And it is clear that his heart is in the right place after revealing his very old-fashioned approach to finding the perfect mate.

Speaking to NW magazine on Monday, the former rugby player, 30, said: 'I believe you can fall in love with someone without sleeping with them.'

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'You can fall in love with someone without sleeping with them': The Bachelor's Nick Cummins (pictured) has revealed his very old-fashioned approach to finding The One on the reality show

He continued: 'You can have love for a soul that you don't want to ruin with human sexual activities. You can just be so happy to have met them.'

Nick said that the task of choosing the right girl on the series was made easier because he didn't go on any overnight dates with the contestants.

Despite all his talk about love, however, it seems the underwear model does indeed have a 'type'.

'You can have love for a soul that you don't want to ruin with human sexual activities. You can just be so happy to have met them': Nick's heart appears to be in the right place

Gentlemanly behaviour: Nick said that the task of choosing the right girl on the series was made easier because he didn't go on any overnight dates with the contestants

According to New Idea magazine, The Bachelor's producers scrambled to re-cast women for the show after Nick described Love Island Australia hostSophie Monk, 38, as his 'perfect woman'.

'She (Sophie) pretty much ticks all the boxes for him, he would love to date her and can see a future there,' a 'source' allegedly told the outlet.

According to the magazine, Nick was asked by producers to define his perfect girl, to which he responded 'Sophie Monk'.

Girls, girls, girls: Despite all his talk about love, however, it seems underwear model Nick does indeed have a 'type' of woman he'd like to be in a relationship with - busty blondes

'He reckons they'd click if they got the time together on romantic dates because they have that same sharp wit, and Sophie is always saying she wants a good old-Aussie bloke,' the source added.

But unfortunately for Nick, Sophie was unavailable to appear on the show due to her contract with Channel Nine after hosting Love Island.

The Bachelor's producers then went on a desperate hunt to find new girls to meet Nick's specific requirements, as most of the women had already been cast.

My girl: Nick was asked by producers of The Bachelor to define his perfect girl, to which he responded 'Sophie Monk' (pictured), host of Love island Australia

Game on! The Bachelor Australia will hit TV screens on Wednesday, August 15, on Network Ten

Emergency castings and more interviews with new girls were held to fit the Honey Badger's profile of his perfect mate.

The Bachelor Australia hits TV screens on Wednesday, August 15, on Network Ten
It is the raunchiest historical drama the BBC has ever broadcast.

And Versailles fans are begging for a fourth series to be made following an intense and open-ended finale on Monday night.

The 21million costume drama about French King Louis XIV, played by George Blagden, left fans wanting more - with many imploring competing networks like Netflix to pick up the show.

Desperate plea: Versailles fans called for the BBC to save the series after an explosive season three finale

The final episode showed a bloody mass shooting in an attempt to murder King Louis XIV.

And in amongst the bloodshed, the show - renowned for its highly saucy scenes - continued to give fans a glimpse into the debauched lives of the former French monarchy.

Originally scheduled to run for four seasons, the 21million series was cut short at only three seasons after viewing figures took a dive.

The explosive show left fans on a cliffhanger as the final scene showed King Louis and his son surveying the kingdom from inside the palace, which left fans itching for closure.

High drama: The final episode showed a bloody mass shooting in an attempt to murder King Louis XIV

Steamy: And in amongst the bloodshed, the show - renowned for its highly saucy scenes - continued to give fans a glimpse into the debauched lives of the former French monarchy

Fans quickly jumped on Twitter in an attempt to save the show from permanent cancellation, and started the hashtag #SaveVersaillesSeries in a bid to attract other big broadcasting names - including Netflix.

'Because the decision to end this show, it's been a bit rushed. This last series in fairness should've been 5 seasons, not 3. They seem to do this sort of thing now, end series, leave you hanging'.

'So sad to see Versailles finish. Fingers Cross the #SaveVersaillesSeries campaign is successful'.

Keeping hopeful: Fans quickly jumped on Twitter in an attempt to save the show from permanent cancellation, and started the hashtag #SaveVersaillesSeries

Racy: The third and final series of Versailles featured an incredible four minutes and 17 seconds of 'porn', marking some of the show's most explicit scenes to date

'What do you mean theres no Versailles Season 4? And what am I supposed to do with my life without it? Dont disappoint me Netflix pls'.

The third and final series of Versailles certainly got tongues wagging earlier this year after it was set feature an incredible four minutes and 17 seconds of 'porn', marking some of the show's most explicit scenes to date.

'This is once again one of the most pornographic series the BBCs ever broadcast', an insider told The Sun in April.

It's over: French cable channel Canal Plusy decided to axe the show, and end it on its third season, as ratings plummeted

Like minds: The new season saw King Louis XIV, played by George Blagden, start up a fiery romance with Madame de Maintenon (Catherine Walker) who shared his desire for power

'It gives a real and incredibly steamy insight into just how sex-mad everyone was in King Louis court.'

A BBC spokesperson MailOnline: 'Versailles is an established series shown after 9pm on BBC2 and its content is nothing beyond the expectations of a post-watershed UK television audience.'

French cable channel Canal Plusy decided to axe the show, and end it on its third season, as ratings plummeted.

It seems that viewers of the series on both the French and British channels were turned off by the drama's steamy nature.

Speaking to The Sun, a source said: 'The BBC made a big decision when it bought Versailles from Canal Plus, particularly with all the full-frontal nudity.

Tired of it: Speaking to The Sun, a source said: 'At first, viewers were open to all the pornographic scenes but slowly the BBC saw Versailles ratings drop to just one million viewers'

'At first, viewers were open to all the pornographic scenes but slowly the BBC saw Versailles ratings drop to just one million viewers  and it seems to have had the same effect in France too.

'They believe it will have run its course after the third series, which will see Louis XIV achieve absolute power, so they have decided there won't be a series four,' they concluded.

The new season saw Louis XIV start up a fiery romance with Madame de Maintenon (Catherine Walker) who shared his desire for power and domination over all.

Their romance blossomed, and as this happens the French monarch will also find himself coming face to face with a particularly important prisoner, one Man in an Iron Mask.
Her mother claimed she had split from fiance Wladimir Klitschko, the father of her three-year-old daughter Kaya - and that they remain on friendly terms.

And Hayden Panettiere, 28, is dating aspiring actor Brian Hickerson, also 28, from South Carolina - the man she was pictured with at celebrity-friendly haunt Craig's in West Hollywood.

A source told E! News: 'Brian moved to Los Angeles to do real estate and acting. He just started getting into the acting business and is going on castings trying to break in the industry.'

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New love: Hayden Panettiere is dating aspiring actor Brian Hickerson following her shock split from fiance Wladimir Klitschko - the new couple were pictured at Craig's in LA on August 3

Split: Hayden has quickly moved on from Ukranian boxer Wladimir with whom she shares a three-year-old daughter Kaya, (pictured back in 2015)

Hayden and her new boyfriend are said to have met through mutual friends.

She's wasted no time getting back into the dating game following her split from Ukranian boxer Wladimir, 42.

They had been together since 2009 and share a three-year-old daughter Kaya.

According to E!'s source, Hayden and Brian have been seeing each other for a month.

'Kaya is primarily with her dad and his family in Europe and Florida. They also spend time together as a family with Hayden,' an insider told E!

Dating: The Nashville star sparked rumors after she was spotted holding hands with the hunky South Carolina native at celebrity-friendly haunt Craig's in West Hollywood

Barefoot and happy: According to E!, Hayden and Brian have been seeing each other for a month after being introduced by mutual friends

After Hayden and Brian were photographed together last week, her mom Lesley Vogel confirmed to RadarOnline that the Heroes alum had parted from her longtime love.

'There are a lot of changes going on in her life. But I think they're positive changes. And I think that she's taking some time,' Vogel told the publication.

Meanwhile, Brian's Instagram account is full of photos of himself having fun and hanging out with his group of pals in LA.

His circle includes former Entourage actor Kevin Connolly who recently directed John Travolta in the film Gotti, and Instagram and YouTube social media star Matt Cutshall.

Aspiring actor: Brian's Instagram account is full of photos of himself having fun and hanging out with his group of pals in LA. He's seen flexing his muscles, left
He is the son of the King of Pop.

But on Monday, Prince Jackson downplayed his significant role in pop culture to casually enjoy the 9th annual motorcycle Kiehl's LifeRide For amfAR event in Los Angeles.

The 21-year-old son of Michael Jackson showed off his Harley Davidson bike as he and a slew of other celebrities expressed their commitment to support HIV/AIDS charities by attending the gathering.

Helping out: On Monday, Prince Jackson, 21, attended the 9th annual motorcycle Kiehl's LifeRide For amfAR event in LA and showed off his Harley Davidson bike as he was there to support HIV/AIDS charities

Prince rode the wind into The Original Farmer's Market wearing a bulky, black helmet and a black t-shirt with a decal of Star Wars' Yoda on the front.

The California native wore black cargo pants with the top and black boots on his feet to help ease his motorcycle ride.

He didn't hesitate to wave at the fans in the on-looking crowd as he zoomed in, even stopping to take a few photos with them.

Prince was accompanied by actors Gilles Marini,Max Emerson, and YouTube star Gigi Gorgeous.

Happy to be there: The oldest son of Michael Jackson smiled at the crowd as he arrived to the event via bike

Casual: Prince went the casual route for the bike rally, opting to wear something more comfortable than fashionable

Styling: Prince rode the wind into The Original Farmer's Market wearing a black t-shirt with a decal of Star Wars' Yoda on the front

Solo: Although he posed for pictures with quite a few, Prince showed up to the event without a girlfriend in tow

Friendly: He didn't hesitate to wave at the fans in the on-looking crowd as he zoomed in, even stopping to take a few photos with them

This year, the charity bike ride covers Southern California over five days, Aug. 6 to Aug. 10, 2018.

On-goers will be able to ride their motorcycles from Los Angeles to San Diego with the certain celebs.

Along the way, they will rally with the public at eight stores along the route, where all are welcome to meet the riders, learn more about amfAR and contribute to the nonprofit.

What they do: Along the way, they will rally with the public at eight stores along the route, where all are welcome to meet the riders, learn more about amfAR and contribute to the nonprofit

Money: Kiehls will donate a total of $150,000 to amfAR over the course of this years events and activities

Kiehls will donate a total of $150,000 to amfAR over the course of this years events and activities.

At the conclusion of this years ride, Kiehls LifeRide for amfAR will have ridden more than 12,000 miles since 2010.

They raised more than $1.9 million, funding ten cure-related research projects.

The event: At the conclusion of this years ride, Kiehls LifeRide for amfAR will have ridden more than 12,000 miles since 2010

The results: They raised more than $1.9 million, funding ten cure-related research projects

Net worth: Prince and his siblings, Paris Jackson and Blanket Jackson all earned $250 million when their father's music catalog sold in 2014

Prince and his siblings, Paris Jackson and Blanket Jackson all earned $250 million when their father's music catalog sold in 2014.

They stand to inherit even more as the years go on.

Giving back and charity work must run in their family, as Paris announced last September that she was going to be an ambassador of The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.

Group photo: Prince posed for a group photo with the other celebs at the event

More to come: Michael Jackson's kids are expected to get even more money within the next few years

Giving back: Charity work must run in their family, as Paris announced last September that she was going to be an ambassador of The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation
BERLIN, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Germany's industrial manufacturing sector has witnessed a sharp decline in the number of new orders in June, preliminary figures published on Monday by the Federal Statistical Office show.

According to the Wiesbaden-based government agency, price- and seasonally-adjusted orders recorded by industrial firms in June were down by 4.0 percent compared to the previous month of May. The figure marked the biggest monthly drop in orders measured in over a year.

Domestic and international orders both fell by 2.8 percent and 4.7 percent respectively. Broken down by foreign regions, the slump in international demand for German manufacturers was less pronounced in the neighboring Eurozone (minus 2.7 percent) than in the rest of the world (minus 5.9 percent).

The producers of intermediary goods were the best performing industrial sector for new orders (minus 2.3 percent), ahead of consumer goods producers (minus 4.5 percent) and capital goods producers (minus 4.7 percent). During the same period, price-adjusted gross revenue fell by 1.0 percent across all sub-categories of the German manufacturing sector.

Commenting on the official figures on Monday, the German ministry for the economy partially attributed the weak performance of the important industrial manufacturing sector to "insecurities stemming from trade policy."

In spite of the protectionist policies of U.S. President Donald Trump, however, the ministry highlighted that overall business sentiment in the sector remained "decidedly positive."

Speaking to Xinhua on Monday, Thiess Petersen, senior economics expert at the Bertelsmann Foundation, noted that Germany had already experienced several years of continued growth in industrial orders.

"At the high current level (of new orders) it is impossible to achieve continuously achieve steep monthly increases", Petersen explained. "There will only be a real reason for concern if June's falling orders turn out to be part of a wider trend during the coming months", he added.

[ Editor: LYQ ]
Jamie Lomas, 43, has revealed he has found love again with 25-year-old Hollyoaks production crew member Portia Hughes.

The I'm A Celeb alum and University of Manchester graduate, who is 18 years his junior, confirmed their romance on Instagram on Sunday night as the actor shared a gushing tribute to the stunning brunette.

Posting a black and white picture of them together, the soap star wrote: 'Sometimes in life you win the lottery' while she shared an equally loved-up shot of them together on her own personal feed.

Look of love: Jamie Lomas, 43, has revealed he has found love again with 25-year-old Hollyoaks production crew member Portia Hughes

The beauty, who graduated from University of Manchester in 2017, has worked on the soap as a third assistant director and has since continued to make her mark on the long-running Channel 4 drama.

According to The Sun, Jamie is 'smitten' with the striking brunette ever since their romance blossomed while he made a brief return to the soap in May to reprise his role as bad boy Warren Fox.

A TV source told the publication: 'Jamie and Portia have been dating for some time, they seem to be really loved up.

'Things seem to be getting quite serious, we're predicting some engagement news soon. All of Jamie's pals would probably be thrilled  they are all in love with Portia too.'

Romance: The I'm A Celeb alum and University of Manchester graduate, who is 18 years his junior, confirmed their romance on Instagram on Sunday night as the actor shared a gushing tribute to the stunning brunette

Meeting: The beauty, who graduated from University of Manchester in 2017, has worked on the soap as a third assistant director and has since continued to make her mark on the long-running Channel 4 drama.

The pair's cosy Instagram shots come after he was linked with ex Rangers WAG Nicola Mimnagh earlier this year after he shared a photo of them together and wrote: 'Happy Valentines day @nicola_mimnagh see you soon babe x'.

Previously, the British actor was married to Corrie star Kym Marsh, 42, and the couple are parents to daughter, Polly. However, the couple split in 2014 after six years together.

The soap duo split 13-months following their wedding when Kym filed for divorce citing unreasonable behaviour.

Meanwhile, the ITV actress split from her personal trainer beau Matt Baker back in April after more than two years together and has now revealed she has found love with Army Major Scott Ratcliff after being introduced by mutual friend.

Blossoming: According to The Sun , Jamie is 'smitten' with the striking brunette ever since their romance blossomed while he made a brief return to the soap in May to reprise his role as bad boy Warren Fox

In the past: Previously, the British actor was married to Corrie star Kym Marsh, 42, and the couple are parents to daughter, Polly. However, the couple split in 2014 after six years together

The Coronation Street star, 42, said the relationship is still 'early days' but is very happy.

She wrote in her OK! Magazine column: 'It is true is that I've started seeing someone new in recent weeks, his name is Scott Ratcliff and he's a major in the Parachute Regiment and he lives and works away quite a lot.'

'We got papped outside Hotel Gotham on my birthday weekend, which is when the speculation started, I genuinely wasnt looking for a new relationship after my split from Matt.

Looking forward: Meanwhile, the ITV actress split from her personal trainer beau Matt Baker back in April after more than two years together and has now revealed she has found love with Army Major Scott Ratcliff after being introduced by mutual friend

'Both Scott and I were recently single  him some time before I was, hes a good friend of Antony Cotton, who introduced us knowing wed get on well, which turned out to be true.'

The soap star said the Corrie co-star introduced the pair over the phone, with her and Scott then deciding to meet up in person, with the relationship happening 'organically'.

Kym added their romance is 'early days but it's going well, and I'm happy and enjoying life as it rolls along.'

Loved-up: Kym added their romance is 'early days but it's going well, and I'm happy and enjoying life as it rolls along'

The mum-of-four confirmed her split from ex Matt in April, adding the decision to call it quits was amicable and they remain on good terms.

A spokesperson for the star told MailOnline at the time: 'Sadly, we can confirm Kym and Matt have made the decision to take some time apart, but remain friends. There will be no further comment at this time'.

It's understood that pressure piled on by their decision to splash out 500,000 on a lovenest for themselves just two months ago caused a rift in their romance.

'They wanted this to work out and have spent weeks trying to work through the issues but, sadly, it just wasn't to be,' an insider told The Sun .
Karolina Kurkova, 34, has reflected on her awkward teenage years and why she never felt beautiful prior to becoming a fashion model.

The Czech model, who is in Sydney for the David Jones Spring Summer show this week, told The Morning Show on Tuesday that the things she was once 'insecure' about have become her trademark features.

'It's interesting things you were maybe once insecure about [have] became my trademarks (my legs and my smile),' she said.

'The things I was insecure about became my trademarks': Model Karolina Kurkova reflects on her 'awkward' teenage years and admits she 'never felt beautiful' growing up. Pictured on The Morning Show on Tuesday

'Growing up being a teenager I did not like being in front of the camera. I never felt beautiful, I was very different, I had long legs, long arms and I come from a small town so I really stood out and not always for the right things.

She continued: 'I felt very different and awkward in my body... Coming into the fashion industry has been amazing... you kind of feel like being different it's beautiful and helped me appreciate what I have and who I am.'

Karolina said she would often avoid wearing skirts because she had long legs and she was uncomfortable to smile because 'I have big smile and big teeth' which led to bullying.

Low self-esteem: 'Growing up being a teenager I did not like being in front of the camera. I never felt beautiful, I was very different, I had long legs, long arms and I come from a small town so I really stood out and not always for the right things,' she said. Pictured left and right at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show on November 10, 2010 in New York City

The former Victoria's Secret model, who is 5'11'', landed her very first Vogue cover in 2001 at age 17 and at the time, editor-in-chief Anna Wintour touted her as the 'next supermodel.'

She has since gone on to appear on 42 Vogue covers and has walked the runway for various designer, including Prada, Gucci and Versace.

Karolina, who is one of the highest-paid models in the world, is married to her actor husband of eight years Archie Drury.

Accomplished: The former Victoria's Secret model, who is 5'11'', landed her very first Vogue cover in 2001 at age 17 and at the time, editor-in-chief Anna Wintour touted her as the 'next supermodel'

They share two sons, eight-year-old Tobin Jack and Noah Lee, two.

She will join the likes of Jessica Gomes and Victoria Lee in the David Jones Spring Summer show in Sydney on Wednesday.

In a statement to News Corp last month, David Jones womenswear and accessories manager, Bridget Veals, said mother-of-two Karolina was chosen to walk in the show because she's an inspiration.

'Karolina is not only a renowned supermodel with a stellar international career - having walked for the likes of Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci - but also a mother and role model that resonates well with our customers,' Bridget said.
Homeland will end after its forthcoming eighth season in 2019.

The national security drama, starring Claire Danes as former CIA agent Carrie Mathison, will come to a 'proper conclusion' after eight years on air, Showtime Networks chief David Nevins confirmed on Monday.

Addressing the Television Critics Association meeting in Beverly Hills, he described the Emmy-winning show as a game-changer for the premium cable channel and said creator-producer Alex Gansa will bring the series to a close.

Series star: Showtime confirmed that Homeland starring Claire Danes, shown in June in Beverly Hills, will end after its eighth season

In a statement, Nevins said: 'I do not want to hear the word cancellation. Alex Gansa will be bringing this show, which has won eight Emmys and five Golden Globes, to its proper conclusion.

'I cannot say enough about how much Homeland has meant for the acceleration of our brand, not to mention to me personally. It was, in fact, the first show that I greenlit when I came to Showtime.'

Nevins said the decision was made mutually by Gansa and leading lady Claire Danes, who has starred in the show since it premiered on the cable network in 2011.

The actress, 39 - who is heavily pregnant with her second child - portrays bipolar, now former CIA agent Carrie Mathison, who has embarked on dangerous conflicts that sometimes mirrored real-world events.

Critically acclaimed: Claire is shown with Damian Lewis in a poster promoting season one of Homeland in 2011

He added: 'Alex and Claire both started talking about it towards the end of last season. I asked, "Are you sure? Lets think about it".

'But when they were resolved, it seemed like it was the right time. The two of them finally made the decision. I am sad to see the journey coming to an end, but it is time.'

Season eight will premiere in June 2019 after Showtime previously renewed the show for Seasons seven and eight back in 2016.

Homeland's last series saw Carrie struggled to uncover an international conspiracy trying to harm America's democratic institutions.

Showtime's president of programming, Gary Levin, vowed Homeland will not be 'limping into the sunset' with its final series.

Final season: Showtime Networks chief David Nevins confirmed during a Television Critics Association meeting on Monday that Homeland will conclude with its eighth season in 2019

He said: 'We have to say that that show is not limping into the sunset. Last season was one of its best seasons ever.

'They have found a way to reinvent it every year and find a way to anticipate world events in a way thats almost eerie.'

Season seven of Homeland concluded on April 29 and the final season of the critically acclaimed series will debut in June 2019.

Danes revealed in April during an appearance on The Howard Stern Show that Homeland was ending after its eighth season.

Political drama: Claire, shown in a season one still, has been playing bipolar spy Carrie Matthison since Homeland premiered in 2011

The My So-Called Life star during her Sirius XM radio interview also announced that she was pregnant with her second child with actor husband Hugh Dancy, 43.

'I am pregnant. I'm like seriously preggo,' she told host Stern, adding 'I'm deep into my second trimester.'

Danes also said that they will not be revealing the gender of the baby until the birth.

Dancy and Danes have been married since 2009 and have a five-year-old son Cyrus together.
Kelly Dodd left her fellow castmates on The Real Housewives Of Orange County running after making out with a new man in front of them during dinner.

The 42-year-old reality star spent most of Monday's episode complaining about ex-husband Michael dating a mutual friend.

She then stunned the others by inviting a man she met just two weeks earlier in Aspen to join her at their girls' night dinner.

Tense talk: Kelly Dodd after a tense talk with Vicki Gunvalson on Monday's episode of The Real Housewives Of Orange County made out with a new guy during a group dinner

Already looking confused as to why he was even there, they then looked clearly awkward as Kelly called spine doctor Rick Paicius 'baby,' with him telling her: 'You look beautiful honey, really beautiful.'

'Aww that's sweet,' she responded, kissing him repeatedly. 'I miss you.'

Their public displays of affection were far from over  and the others quickly made their excuses to leave, not hiding their embarrassment.

'Make it stop!' Tamra Judge said as Kelly and her new date sucked face.

Warm welcome: Spine doctor Rick Paicius joined Kelly at the girl' night dinner and they quickly kissed

New relationship: Kelly just met Rick in Aspen just two weeks earlier

Sweet talk: Rick gushed that Kelly looked beautiful as he joined her at the table

Vicki Gunvalson, 56, was the first to flee, and show newcomer Emily Simpson looked aghast as she got up from the table and told the lovebirds: 'We'll leave you two alone.'

As they all walked out, Tamra summed up their horror as she said: 'Some guy comes in and they start making out and she's just met him. It's like, ''Okay, bye!'' That was awkward.'

She even insisted later in a confessional: 'This is the weirdest ending to a dinner ever, even for us.'

Weird dinner: Tamra Judge later said it was the 'weirdest ending to a dinner ever'

Another newcomer, Emily Simpson, said: 'I felt like I was on their date. I was like, ''OK this is uncomfortable, maybe we should leave'''

'Literally needed to run as well,' Gina admitted, joking: 'Maybe that's what we have to look forward to with our ''second opportunities.''

'This would be my third if this one doesn't work out,' Emily laughed.

Taking off: Kelly and Rick only had eyes for each other as the other women fled the table

She said later to camera: 'I'm so glad I'm married and I don't have to deal with this dating world. The grass isn't always greener on the other side  sometimes it's a s***ty condo sitting on a dirt lot.'

Vicki seemed particularly upset because just before Kelly's date arrived, she had been getting the new girls to team up against Vicki in their feud over her seemingly helping Kelly's ex Michael find new romance himself.

The self-declared 'OG of the OC' called Kelly 'very confused,' saying: 'She's really upset that Michael dated someone else but she's okay flaunting her new boyfriend in the midst of a girls' night?'

Not happy: Vicki was upset that Kelly brought up their argument at dinner after they both fake apologized about it over lunch

Kelly's latest outburst about it all came out even though the pair clearly had made fake efforts to kiss and make up earlier at lunch, with Kelly admitting that even though she was accepting Vicki's apology, 'you can forgive somebody but you don't necessarily have to trust them.'

Vicki admitted she was just as fake, saying to the camera after her apology: 'I'll do my part and say I'm sorry, but I did nothing wrong. She should look herself in the mirror and figure out why she's so temperamental.'

She was clearly shocked when out of nowhere during their girls' night later Kelly announced loudly: 'What's bizarre is that she hooks up my ex-husband with a friend that's our friend.'

Not sincere: Kelly and Vicki both made insincere efforts to apologize and move on

Group meal: The ladies gathered for a girls' night dinner

Vicki asked later in a confessional: 'Are you serious Kelly? We've just settled this. When you apologize to somebody and they accept your apology and then they bring it up again  I mean how many casseroles do you want, Kelly?'

But Kelly insisted: 'I want Vicki to know what other people's opinions are because she's the only one who thinks her opinion is right.'

Kelly could not hide her joy when the newcomers quickly agreed with her, with Emily saying: 'When there is a divorce there are always lines drawn and you have to make a choice. So you gotta go with your girl.'

That's bizarre: Kelly during dinner brought up Vicki setting up her ex-husband on a date

'See, she's a lawyer! She knows,' Kelly said gleefully.

'I'm not a lawyer, but that s*** is girl code!' Gina added. 'What girl is in a situation where she's like, ''We have to keep this whole s*** secret because I'm friends with his ex-wife?' ...What a f***ing loser is she?

'Oh  oh!  that's the worst thing you can do to Vicki,' Tamra said to camera later.

Girl code: Gina Kirschenheiter was critical of Vicki for violating the 'girl code'

'I would personally say, ''F*** you I'm not even hooking you up'',' she said, with everyone looking shocked at how blunt she was being about Vicki.

Gina later defended her outspoken opinions, telling Tamra: 'Listen, I personally think she should be more scared of me than I should be of her.'

'Go all Long Island on her ass!' Tamra joked of her friend who was originally from Long Island.

Outspoken star: The show newcomer later defended her outspoken opinions to friend Tamra

Gina later met up with Vicki for a hike, telling her: 'Listen, I want you to know that I'm really not a s*** talker.'

'Well you're from New York, you might be,' Vicki replied, with Gina laughing: 'Well I'm a s***-talker to your face.'

Gina had also inadvertently offended Shannon Beador, 54, during the girls' night after she said 'when me moved here we were in Newport and no offense I couldn't do Newport.'

Hiking talk: Vicki and Gina later went on a hike together and talked things out

'I'm in Newport,' Shannon replied curtly.

Tamra, meanwhile, was using a scooter to help her get around on one leg after breaking her foot during her drunken, naked revelry during the girls' trip to Mexico.

She went to see the doctor with Vicki supporting her, with her friend asking: 'We just want to know when she can whoop it up again.'

Orthopedist Dr Ryan Labovitch warned Tamra it was a 'slow healing fracture,' telling her: 'You're going to be easing back into walking  you're not gonna be strutting your stuff and whooping it up.'

RHOC returns next week on Bravo.

Tasty meals: Shannon Beador was trying out recipes for a potential new QVC line of food products

Taste testers: Sophie and twins Adeline and Stella tried out dishes for their mom Shannon
Becca Kufrin and new fiance Garrett Yrigoyen made their chat show debut as a couple Monday after getting engaged on The Bachelorette.

The 28-year-old Minnesota publicist and Garrett, 29, joined Jimmy Kimmel Live after the three-hour live finale on ABC.

'This is our first time in public,' said Becca as they joined Jimmy onstage at his Hollywood studio.

Chat show: Becca Kufrin and new fiance Garrett Yrigoyen made their chat show debut as a couple Monday on Jimmy Kimmel Live

Becca wore a short black sleeveless dress with plunging neckline for her chat show appearance.

Garrett meanwhile looked dapper in a dark blue suit.

Becca said they've been 'in hiding' for two and a half months since filming completed.

'Just cooking, swimming, playing games,' Becca said.

Warm welcome: Garrett and Becca received a warm welcome from the studio audience in Hollywood

She also revealed getting Garrett a mullet haircut wig to disguise him.

Jimmy teased the couple about Garrett's tough to pronounce last name and suggested choosing a neutral name instead.

He asked Becca if it was true or false that she knew from the start that Garrett was her guy.

The host: Jimmy, 50, quizzed Becca and Garrett on their relationship

'I felt that instant spark with him, that connection,' said Becca who gave Garrett the First Impression rose at the start of season 14.

Becca won The Bachelor earlier this season but was dumped by Arie Luyendyk Jr who then pursued runner-up Lauren Burnham.

She bet Jimmy $10 and chicken nuggets back in June that her fiance this time would stick aroud.

Paid upL: Becca won a $10 bet she made with Jimmy earlier this year

Jimmy paid up the $10 but not the nuggets.

'If you guys don't get married, I want this back,' he quipped.

Jimmy asked if they saw runner-up Blake Horstmann, 28, sobbing after being rejected by Becca.

'I've had my fair share of tears, too. I never want to make anyone cry that hard,' Becca said.

Tears flowing: Garrett and Becca were asked if they watched runner-up Blake Horstmann crying

Jimmy also poked fun at Garrett for some of his cheesier love declarations to Becca.

'It's the little quirks that I love,' Becca said.

Jimmy quizzed them on how much they knew about each other for prizes.

He also gifted both of them with Costco cards after Becca said during the finale that she was looking forward to Costco membership and kids with Garrett.
Life-long smoker Uma Thurman puffed away on a nicotine-infused vaporizer after a lunch date with a taller mystery man in downtown Manhattan on Monday.

The 48-year-old Oscar nominee - who relies on stylist Elizabeth Saltzman - wore a white blouse, baggy black shorts, and matching sandals during her make-up free, sidewalk smoke session.

The twice-divorced mother-of-three's stubbly silver fox coordinated with her in a white T-shirt, faded black pants, a trucker cap, and sneakers.

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Nico-demon: Life-long smoker Uma Thurman puffed away on a vaporizer after a lunch date with a taller mystery man in downtown Manhattan on Monday

Addicted: The 48-year-old Oscar nominee wore a white blouse, baggy black shorts, and matching sandals during her make-up free, sidewalk smoke session

Uma's street sighting came the same day her second ex-husband Ethan Hawke discussed never-before-known details about their 2005 divorce after six years together.

'I got divorced and my personal life fell apart,' the 47-year-old father-of-four admitted in the August edition of GQ.

'My best movies are not the ones that paid me: the Before trilogy, Boyhood, First Reformed, Dead Poets Society. But I'm 47 years old. I pay my alimony with my acting. I pay my kids' health insurance with my acting. I pay everybody's tuition with my acting.'

The four-time Oscar nominee has two films coming out August 17 - playing a retired rocker in Jesse Peretz's dramedy Juliet Naked, as well as his fourth directorial effort Blaze about country crooner Blaze Foley.

Twinning: The twice-divorced mother-of-three's stubbly silver fox coordinated with her in a white T-shirt, faded black pants, a trucker cap, and sneakers

'My personal life fell apart': Uma's street sighting came the same day her second ex-husband Ethan Hawke discussed details of their 2005 divorce (pictured in 2002)

The 47-year-old father- of-four admitted to GQ: 'My best movies are not the ones that paid me - the Before trilogy, Boyhood, First Reformed, Dead Poets Society. But I'm 47 years old. I pay my alimony with my acting. I pay my kids' health insurance with my acting. I pay everybody's tuition with my acting'

Both films due out August 17: The four-time Oscar nominee plays a retired rocker in Jesse Peretz's dramedy Juliet Naked (pictured), and his fourth directorial effort Blaze about country crooner Blaze Foley will also be released this month

Fell in love on the 1997 set of Gattaca: Hawke and Thurman are the proud parents of 16-year-old son Levon Roan, 16; and 20-year-old daughter Maya Ray

Hawke and Thurman - who fell in love on the 1997 set of Gattaca - are the proud parents of 16-year-old son Levon Roan, 16; and 20-year-old daughter Maya Ray.

The Imposters actress also has primary custody of six-year-old daughter Luna with ex-fiance Arpad Busson, and Ethan has two daughters (Clementine, 10; and Indiana, 7) with his nanny-turned-second wife, Ryan Shawhughes.

The Pulp Fiction alum will next play eccentric headmistress Madame Duret in Lionsgate's haunted boarding school flick Down a Dark Hall - streaming VOD on August 17 - alongside AnnaSophia Robb and Isabelle Fuhrman.

Uma, Luna, and Maya together on June 3: The Imposters actress also has primary custody of six-year-old daughter Luna with ex-fiance Arpad Busson, and Ethan has two daughters with his nanny-turned-second wife, Ryan Shawhughes
Georgia Love starred in the second season of reality show The Bachelorette Australia in late 2016.

The 29-year-old brunette chose Lee Elliott, 37, as her beau, over fellow contestant Matty 'J' Johnson.

Now the program is airing in Norway, and the former reality star turned weather presenter posted some hilarious commentary about the foreign version on social media on Tuesday.

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Euro star: 'This is amazing': Georgia Love laughs at herself while watching season two of The Bachelorette as it replays in Norway with subtitles

Georgia posted a still of her face to Instagram Stories, with the caption: 'Have just discovered my season of The Bachelorette is currently playing in Norway', followed by the laughing-crying emoji.

Her smiling face is pictured on the screen along with the subtitles: 'Katie...' and 'Jeg kommer til det', which means 'I'm coming to it' in Norwegian.

Georgia captioned the still: 'This is amazing.'

Whazzap, B? The Bachelorette star added another shot from the TV series, in which a grinning and glammed up Georgia is seen speaking to a contestant wearing a blue suit

It was followed by another still from the TV series, in which a grinning and glammed up Georgia is seen speaking to a contestant wearing a blue suit.

The English caption on the screenshot reads: 'Whazzap, B', prompting Georgia to write, 'When your jokes are still funny in Norwegian.'

All smiles: Georgia and beau Lee Elliott's (pictured) relationship has gone from strength to strength since the couple met on the reality show

Georgia and her Bachelorette beau Lee Elliott have been going from strength to strength since meeting on the reality show.

'I've got the right person. I am old school, I want to do it right. I will ask her dad [Chris Love] for her hand in marriage and do something special,' Lee told BW Magazine back in 2017.

He added that he and Georgia 'certainly both want to' get hitched.

New love: Bachelorette runner-up Matty 'J' Johnson (pictured) went on to star in the fifth season of The Bachelor in 2017

Most recently, Georgia confirmed to Now To Love that they were house hunting in Melbourne and were indeed planning to move in together.

Bachelorette runner-up Matty J starred in the fifth season of The Bachelor, and chose Laura Byrne, 31, as his belle in 2017 and the couple are still together.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Georgia for comment in relation to this story.
Now it's time to hear the other side of the story.

Anyone who followed the Upstate New York story when the real-life 2015 Dannemora prison break happened will finally get to find out what really happened when the eight-hour limited series debuts on Showtime in mid November.

The real-life high-alert escape made headlines during summer 2015, mesmerizing New Yorkers with the strange odyssey of two convicted murderers and the 51-year-old woman who helped them escape.

New show: A newly released trailer for an eight-hour limited series debuting on Showtime in mid November explains what really happened when the real-life Dannemora prison break happened back in 2015

On the news: The real-life high-alert escape made headlines during summer 2015, mesmerizing New Yorkers with the strange odyssey of two convicted murderers and the 51-year-old woman who helped them escape

During Monday's TCA Showtime panel, David Nevins, President and CEO of Showtime Networks Inc, announced the Dannemora premiere date.

The series will air on Showtime on Sunday, November 18, 10 PM ET/PT.

Showtime also released a trailer for the series that gives everyone a glimpse into what really went down when those inmates escaped with the help of the prison employee.

Patricia Arquette playing Tilly Mitchell, 51, a working class wife and mother who supervises the prison tailor shop and becomes sexually involved with two convicts.

When can you watch? During Monday's TCA Showtime panel, David Nevins, President and CEO of Showtime Networks Inc, announced the Dannemora premiere date

New footage: Showtime also released a trailer for the series that gives everyone a glimpse into what really went down when those inmates escaped and killed

Affair: The inmates the prison employee gets involved with are David Sweat, a convicted cop-killer who may have genuine feelings for Tilly, and Richard Matt (pictured here), a convicted murderer and the escape mastermind

Sexual relationship: Tilly first had a fling with inmate Richard Matt, a convicted murderer and the escape mastermind

Tricked: The trailer shows how Arquette falls in love with, is manipulated by and has a very sexual relationship with the inmates

Lies: The new footage shows that when asked if she had a sexual relationship with the inmates, Tilly lied and said no

Sweat: One of the inmates she gets involved with is David Sweat, a convicted cop-killer

It's then when the inmates she gets involved with, David Sweat, a convicted cop-killer who may have genuine feelings for Tilly, and Richard Matt, a convicted murderer and the escape mastermind, trick her into helping them break out.

Mitchell, among other things, embarks on sexual relations with both men and smuggles hacksaw blades in hamburger meat to assist in their break-out.

The trailer shows how Arquette falls in love with and has a very sexual relationship with the inmates eventually leading to her arrest and demise in prison.

Innocent: 'I didn't do anything wrong,' says the prison tailor while being jailhouse interviewed, 'I mean not really wrong'

Her relationship with them: Mitchell, among other things, embarks on sexual relations with both men

The meat: She smuggled hacksaw blades in hamburger meat to assist in their break-out

Also in the cast are Bonnie Hunt, Eric Lange and David Morse.

The trailer does its best to explain how Tilly was easily manipulated and how she really thought the entire incident and relationship was innocent.

'I didn't do anything wrong,' the prison tailor says while being interviewed in the jailhouse. 'I mean not really wrong.'

Escape At Dannemora was directed and executive produced by Ben Stiller.

Famous name behind-the-camera: Escape At Dannemora was directed and executive produced by Ben Stiller

Details: The series goes into details about the guys' infamous escape and what happened when they were on the run

Caught: The movie follows law enforcement's steps to caught the wanted killers

What to expect: The show will be an eight-hour limited series chronicling the bizarre tale that shows everything from how Tilly lied to her husband and put her family in jeopardy in order to get the job done

It will be an eight-hour limited series chronicling the bizarre tale that shows everything from how Tilly lied to her husband and put her family in jeopardy in order to get the job done.

It will also showcase the details of the guys' escape and how they broke out in the first place.

Produced by Showtime, Escape At Dannemora is written and executive produced by Brett Johnson and Michael Tolkin, who met while working as writers on Showtime's Ray Donovan.

In addition to Stiller, Johnson and Tolkin, the exec producers team includes Bryan Zuriff, Bill Carraro, Michael De Luca via Michael De Luca Productions, and Nicky Weinstock for Red Hour Productions.

On the run: It will also showcase the details of the guys' escape and how they broke out in the first place

Hiding: In the movie, the two escapees did all they could to disguise their appearances, even cutting off their hair

Behind the scenes: Produced by Showtime, Escape At Dannemora is written and executive produced by Brett Johnson and Michael Tolkin, who met while working as writers on Showtime's Ray Donovan

Promoting: Benicio Del Toro, Patricia Arquette and Paul Dano at the Escape at Dannemora panel at Showtime TCA Summer Press Tour 2018

Explaining: Patricia Arquette explained her character and what it was like starring in the upcoming series

The convicts: Actors Paul Dano and Benicio Del Toro play the escaped inmates
She's the Pretty Little Liars actress and he played Mike Ross as Meghan Markle's lover on Suits.

And after tying the knot in December 2016, Troian Bellisario, 32, and Patrick J Adams, 36, are expecting their first child.

According to Us Weekly, a source close to the pair has confirmed the happy news.

Baby joy! It was reported on Monday that Pretty Little Liars star Troian Bellisario and Suits actor Patrick J. Adams are pregnant with their first child.

E! News reported on Monday that pregnancy speculation first arose when Troian and Patrick were seen holidaying in Greece, in pictures obtained by DailyMail.com.

'Photographers spotted Troian and Patrick on the beach in Mykonos,' they said.

'The star covered her tiny baby bump in a chocolate brown one-piece as she frolicked through the water with the Suits actor.'

Since their loved up holiday, the happy couple have shied away from sharing photos together, particularity of Troian's mid-section.

Keeping it secret; E! News reported on Monday that pregnancy speculation first arose when Troian and Patrick were seen holidaying in Greece, in pictures obtained by DailyMail.com

Former Suits co-stars: Troian and Patrick also attend the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle earlier in the year

Troian first rose to fame as Spencer Hastings on the American drama series Pretty Little Liars alongside Shay Mitchell, Ashley Benson and Lucy Hale.

Also an actor, Patrick who hails from Canada played the college dropout turned unlicensed lawyer on Suits - the love interest of paralegal Rachel Zane - the now married Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle.

Troian and her love also attend the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and the beauty earlier in the year.

Loved up on-screen: Also an actor, Patrick who hails from Canada played the college dropout turned unlicensed lawyer on Suits - the love interest of Rachel Zane - the now married Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle (pictured: Season seven 2017)

Acting brought them together: Troian and Patrick met in 2009 while staring together in the play Equivocation

Married: The lovebirds got engaged in 2014 and wed in a 2016 rustic bohemian three-day glamping ceremony near California's central coast in front of family and friends

Troian and Patrick met in 2009 while staring together in the play Equivocation.

The pair split at one point in 2010 but got back together after the part-time photographer made a guest appearance on her show Pretty Little Liars that same year.

The lovebirds got engaged in 2014 and wed in a 2016 rustic bohemian three-day glamping ceremony near California's central coast in front of family and friends.

Troian and Patrick, who are yet to publicly comment on the pregnancy news, spent their honeymoon in Australia.
Ruby Rose attended the premiere of The Meg on Monday night in Los Angeles.

The 32-year-old actress stunned in an orange gown as she walked the red carpet ahead of her co-stars.

She stars in the shark horror film alongside Jason Statham, Rainn Wilson, and Bingbing Li.

Leading lady: Ruby Rose attended the premiere of The Meg on Monday night in Los Angeles

Rose, best known for her role in Netflix's Orange Is The New Black, paired her sweeping gown with a few pieces of gold jewelry.

Her glam included a bold brow, a nude lip, and a shimmering highlight.

All smiles: The 32-year-old actress stunned in an orange gown as she walked the red carpet ahead of her co-stars

Accessorized: Rose, best known for her role in Netflix's Orange Is The New Black, paired her sweeping gown with a few pieces of gold jewelry

Jason Statham attended the premiere with his longtime fiance Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

The 51-year-old actor looked dapper in a blue suit and shades, while Rosie looked elegant in a plunging black dress and heels.

Prior to the premiere, Jason signed autographs for his adoring fans.

Date night: Jason Statham attended the premiere with his fiance Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

Such a stud: The 51-year-old actor looked dapper in a blue suit and shades

Showstopper: Rosie looked elegant in a plunging black dress and heels

Celeb status: Prior to the premiere, Jason signed autographs for his adoring fans

Actresses Jessica McNamee and Bingbing Li were also in attendance.

McNamee, best known or her role in CHIPS, dazzled in a strapless gown that boasted a thigh-high slit.

And Li was an absolute wonder in white.

Supporting roles: Actresses Jessica McNamee and Bingbing Li were also in attendance

Triple threat: The Meg ladies all got together for photo-op

Parents night out: Rainn Wilson attended the premiere with his wife Holiday Reinhorn

Dressed to impress: Both Cliff Curtis and Masi Oka wore suits to the premiere

Alyson Stoner commanded attention in a red silk suit.

She paired the vibrant ensemble with a lace bralette, which she proudly showed off the red carpet.

Red hot! Alyson Stoner commanded attention in a red silk suit

Strike a pose: Stoner paired the vibrant ensemble with a lace bralette, which she proudly showed off the red carpet

Rocky! Sylvester Stallone made an appearance at the premiere in jeans and black shirt

Big guns: Stallone and Statham goofed around on the red carpet

Best buds: The two action stars embraced at the event

The Meg follows Jonas Taylor, played by Statham, as he attempts to kill a 70-foot shark called Carcharodon Megalodon.

The film, out August 10, was directed by National Treasure's Jon Turteltaub.

Beware of sharks: 90210's Ian Ziering attended the premiere with wife Erin Kristine Ludwig

Family affair: David Koechner attended the movie screening with his wife Leigh Koechner and their five children
BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Three hundred people were called to account during a spot check on government websites in the second quarter, the State Council said on its website.

According to the circular on the results, all 300 people were connected to government websites that failed the checks. Among them, 190 were asked to hold talks with their superiors, 32 wrote self-examinations, 68 were publicly criticized, seven were removed from posts, two were given intra-Party warnings and one was suspended from post.

As of June 1, there were 22,206 government websites operating nationwide, 441 of which were spot-checked by the office on the transparency of government affairs under the General Office of the State Council, with 96 percent of them passing the check.

Up to 12,286 local government websites were checked by their respective local authorities, with a passing rate of 97 percent, the circular said.

A platform that allows the public to spot errors on government websites received 15,885 valid messages in the second quarter, and 99 percent of them have been handled.

The circular also unveiled several major problems for some websites, including lack of management, low quality of services, difficult website access.

The State Council thus asked local authorities to strengthen their regular supervision over government websites, enhance the websites' capabilities to serve netizens and improve the management of government affairs on new media.

[ Editor: Xueying ]
Despite her lucrative career in the sex industry for the past six years, Samantha X continues to vocally appose being labeled a 'prostitute'.

And after a 'proud prostitute' hit out at the high-class escort on Tuesday, Samantha told Daily Mail Australia: 'I have a right to be called what I want to be called.'

The furious sex worker had called into KIIS FM's Kyle And Jackie 'O' after the busty blonde took part in an interview about her return to the job.

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'She's a hooker just like everybody else!' Fellow sex worker slams Samantha X for 'putting herself on a pedestal' as a high-class escort after refusing to be labeled a prostitute

The irate caller fumed: 'She's trying to put herself up on a pedestal and make herself look real good, but she's a hooker just like everybody else!':

'At the end of the day, I'm a sex worker, I'm a prostitute, I'm a hooker - She is no different to a street worker that walks the streets! She is giving a sexual service and gets paid for it.'

Samantha appeared on the Kyle and Jackie O show to promote her latest book, Back on Top: Confessions of a High-Class Escort.

While speaking to shock jock host Kyle Sandilands, Samantha - real name Amanda Goff - explained why she rejected the 'prostitute' label, explaining: 'It gives the idea that I don't have a choice in what I do, and I love what I do.'

'It's just a word, but words can be hurtful, and I just don't like that word,' she insisted.

'She is no different to a street worker that walks the streets! She is giving a sexual service and gets paid for it': The mystery caller and self-proclaimed 'proud prostitute' was angered by Samantha X rejecting the label

'I am not degrading sex workers, but I have a right to be called what I choose to be called': The blond bombshell hit back at claims she was putting herself on a pedestal by promoting her $1200 per hour services as a high-class escort

'If she wants to be called a prostitute, that's her choice. If I don't, that's mine': Samantha X insisted her personal decision should be respected by other women in the industry

Taking to Instagram, she appeared to respond to her critics.

'Love me or hate me, at least Im being given a voice. On prime time radio!' she wrote.

Speaking of the angered caller, Samantha said it was her prerogative if she wanted to be called a prostitute.

'If she wants to be called a prostitute, that's her choice. If I don't, that's mine. You can't be "wrong" for deciding what you want to be called,' Samantha told Daily Mail Australia.

'I only speak for myself, myself and I. No one can take away my right for having an opinion about what I choose to be called.'

She added: 'I am not degrading sex workers, but I have a right to be called what I choose to be called. I'm not sure why it bothers her so much.'

Back to work! Samantha X announced her official return to the sex industry last month, after giving up her lucrative career while dating ex-partner Channel Seven's Ryan Phelan

Samantha announced her official return to the sex industry last month after giving up her lucrative career while dating ex-partner Channel Seven's Ryan Phelan.

During a 2014 interview on Sunday Night, she explained how boredom at work led to her transition from a divorced mother to a highly-paid escort.

Her journey began in 2012, when she visited a Sydney bordello on her lunch break from work as a magazine editor. Just two days later she was having sex for money.

Before becoming an escort, the mother-of-two worked extensively in the media at magazines such as New Idea, Prevention and InStyle.
Katy Perry made one young fan's dreams come true when she took to the stage in Melbourne on Sunday night.

Alyssa Bugeja, a 14-year-old who suffers from spinal muscular atrophy, was almost too sick to attend the concert at Rod Laver Arena, but her mother Julieanne was determined to get her there to see her idol.

Her persistence paid off, with the 33-year-old pop star acknowledging Alyssa in the front row of the audience during her performance of Firework.

'She couldn't wipe the smile off her face': Katy Perry made one young fan's dreams come true when she took to the stage in Melbourne on Sunday night. Pictured performing in Australia on her Witness world tour

'What a night,' Julieanne wrote on Facebook on Monday.

'Katy Perry spotted Alyssa when she was singing Firework and she was looking at her singing to her. So passionately and from the heart. We were all in tears on the floor.

'Toward the end of the song she looked Alyssa directly in the eyes, touched her heart and bowed to her. I can't stop crying. Alyssa can't wipe the smile off her face.'

After receiving the tickets from her mother as a birthday present, Alyssa almost didn't make it to the show after falling ill with a respiratory infection just days before the concert.

Battler: Alyssa Bugeja, a 14-year-old who suffers from spinal muscular atrophy, was almost too sick to attend the show at Rod Laver Arena, but her mother Julieanne was determined to get her there to see her idol. During a performance of her song Firework, Katy singled out Alyssa in the crowd and sang to her

In the end, Julieanne had no option but to pack up all of Alyssa's respirators and head to the show.

'Doing it solo tonight with Alyssa. More bags with machines than I have arms,' Julieanne captioned a Facebook photo of Alyssa before the show.

Although the lead up to the concert may have been a stressful one, the show itself appeared to go off without a hitch for the pair.

Moving: After the concert, Julieanne wrote on Facebook: 'Katy spotted Alyssa when she was singing Firework and she was looking at her singing to her... We were all in tears on the floor'

Speaking to 9Honey on Tuesday, Julieanne said Alyssa had been reliving the concert every time she played footage of Katy's performance at the Melbourne show.

'She smiles so big,' Julieanne said. 'It takes her back to the moment.'

Katy arrived in Perth last month for the Australian leg of her Witness world tour. She will perform her last show in the country in Sydney on August 17 before flying to New Zealand for two concerts in Auckland.
They have been together since 2010 and share a one-year-old son Jack.

And on Monday night, Jason Statham and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley exemplified couple goals as they arrived at the Los Angeles premiere for the British actor's new film The Meg.

The 51-year-old action star looked chiseled with his heavy designer stubble and shades while his blonde model fiancee, 31, stunned in a figure-hugging black gown.

Stars: Jason Statham and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley exemplified couple goals as they arrived at the Los Angeles premiere for the British actor's new film The Meg on Monday night

Jason posed for photos with one hand in his trouser pocket and the other around Rosie's waist.

He was dapper in a dark blue two-piece suit worn with a white shirt and gray patterned tie.

Rosie showcased her cleavage in her sleeveless dress that had a plunging sweetheart neckline.

Her gown hugged her curves as it fell to the floor and pooled around her feet with a small train.

The stunner wore her long hair styled back from her face in a stylish updo and rocked statement gold earrings and bangles.

Good looking: The blonde English model, 31, showcased her cleavage in the sleeveless dress that had a plunging sweetheart neckline

Loved up: Jason posed for photos with one hand in his trouser pocket and the other around Rosie's waist. The couple, who've been together since 2010, share a one-year-old son Jack

Hunk: The 51-year-old action star looked chiseled with his heavy designer stubble and shades. He was dapper in a dark blue two-piece suit worn with a white shirt and gray patterned tie

Movie star: Jason was a big hit with fans who clamored for his autograph

Jason got support at the premiere from his pal and Dependables co-star Sylvester Stallone.

The pair mugged for the cameras with Sly, 72, showing off his bulging biceps.

The Meg is the mother of all shark movies, with Jason going head to head with a pre-historic 75-foot-long shark known as the Megalodon.

He stars as an expert deep sea rescue diver who's hired to rescue the crew of a submersible trapped on the floor of the deepest part of the Pacific after a run-in with the giant creature.

The horror action adventure opens in theatres on August 10.

A-list friend: Jason got support at the premiere from his pal and Dependables co-star Sylvester Stallone

He's still got it: The pair mugged for the cameras with Sly, 72, showing off his bulging biceps
She recently marked her 27th birthday as a single woman following her heartbreaking split from husband, Dan Single, last year.

But Aussie model Bambi Northwood-Blyth appeared carefree as she soaked up the warmer weather in England this week.

On Sunday, the stunner showed off her tiny waist and taut stomach as she stripped down to swimwear at Wilderness Festival.

Svelte stunner! Model Bambi Northwood-Blyth (above) strips down to a bikini to show off her lithe figure during England's Wilderness Festival on Sunday

Posing alongside numerous teepees at the four-day music and culture event, her petite frame was evident.

Later in the week, she also paraded her svelte figure in a cheery, yellow frock.

The off-the-shoulder ensemble complimented her natural features as she smiled from ear-to-ear while at a luxury al fresco dining event.

Happy days! Bambi appeared carefree as she soaked up the warmer weather in England this week, and paraded her slender frame in a yellow frock and adding Missoma jewellery

Over: It was confirmed Bambi (left) split from her husband Dan Single (right) in January following a short marriage. They wed in Byron Bay in 2014

Earlier this year, The Sunday Telegraph reported that an 'insider' close to the model said she was back to the work grind, despite her heartache.

'Dan and Bambi met 10 years ago when Bambi's career was really taking off and while she worked hard during that time, Dan was her priority,' the source claimed.

'Now they have split, Bambi has taken a step back, stopped partying and is absolutely more focused on her career.'

Beauty: Bambi has posed for a number of high-profile clients including Mango, Voodoo Hosiery, Nike, Roxy and Bonds

Bambi has posed for a number of high-profile clients including Mango, Voodoo Hosiery, Nike, Roxy and Bonds.

In the past, Bambi and Dan described themselves as 'co-dependent'.

Dan, who the founder of brand Ksubi, suffered a horrific fall from a balcony at the Hotel Grand D'Amour in Paris in 2017.

The fashion star fell four storeys (and 35 metres) and suffered a broken pelvis and hips, shattered legs, internal trauma and a blow to the head.

Bambi and Dan have not been seen together since April 2017, when Dan launched a controversial crowdfunding campaign to cover his recovery costs.

In January, the wife of Bambi and Dan's marriage celebrant, Jane Magnus, told Daily Mail Australia that the couple had split.
It's an intriguing new show casting Jim Carrey as a children's television host coping with a personal crisis.

Showtime on Monday at the TCA summer tour in Los Angeles released a preview for a new show called Kidding, featuring the comedy ace as Jeff/Mr. Pickles, in what's his first recurring role in more than two decades since his stint on In Living Color.

According to the network, the show casts the 56-year-old star of hits such as The Cable Guy, Dumb and Dumber and Ace Ventura: Pet Detective as 'a beacon of kindness and wisdom to America's impressionable young minds, who also anchors a multimillion-dollar branding empire.

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Coming soon: Showtime on Monday at the TCA summer tour in Los Angeles released a preview for Kidding, a show starring Jim Carrey as a children's TV host named Jeff/Mr. Pickles

'But when Jeff's family begins to implode, he finds no fairy tale or fable or puppet will guide him through the crisis, which advances faster than his means to cope.'

The ensuing result, according to the network, is 'a kind man in a cruel world [who] faces a slow leak of sanity as hilarious as it is heartbreaking.'

In the opening of the preview, Carrey's voice narrates, 'Theres a spark of greatness inside each and every one of us ... in you, in me, theres a lovely light, that can never go out.'

The preview includes a montage of scenes showing Jeff balancing his life as a TV host of Mr. Pickles Puppet Time and his personal life, at one point shaving his head across the front of his shaggy brown mane.

Deep: Carrey's character Jeff is 'a kind man in a cruel world [who] faces a slow leak of sanity as hilarious as it is heartbreaking,' Showtime said

Trademark wit: Carrey looks to bring his uncanny sense of physical comedy to the series

Poignant: The show looks to be a mix of drama and comedy, as illustrated in the preview

The storyline of the series, according to Deadline, puts Jeff at odds against his executive producer Seb (Frank Langella), who sees his nine-figure meal ticket disintegrating amid Jeff's personal crisis.

The show also examines the program's puppet maker Deirdre (Catherine Keener) dealing with her own unique issues.

Carrey, opening up on the series at the TCAs, said that it's the right time to play a role like Jeff, as he feels he's 'well-schooled and experienced enough to do this part,' according to the Los Angeles Times.

Eye to eye: Carrey faces off with a giant replica head of himself in this still

High-profile: Carrey plays the host of a children's television empire nicknamed Mr. Pickles

Carrey said he's intriguing by the inherent theme of the show: 'The search for who we are and whats an authentic person have always been attractive themes for me.

'The idea of being hit by a freight train in life and trying to hold onto your identity calls to me.'

At the panel, Carrey also opened up on the political cartoons he's been producing in speaking out against President Donald Trump and members of his administration, saying it all came about organically.

'Its not a choice  its just happening,' Carrey said. 'Its my reflex to what Im seeing, which I dont like. Its a civilized way of dealing with it. You can tweet all you want but theres something about a creation that makes it fun to consume and its saying what I need to say.'

Kidding, which co-stars Cole Allen, Bernard White and Coda Boesel, is slated to debut on Showtime September 9 at 10/9c.

Multi-talented: Carrey said that his penchant for political cartoons is an organic reaction to what he's seeing and 'a civilized way of dealing with it'

Summer smiles: The veteran comic looked to be in a great mood at the industry event in LA

Good material: Carrey said that the self-discovery theme of the show was intriguing to him

Group shot: Jim Carrey posed with co-stars Judy Greer and Catherine Keener at the event
Things aren't looking good for new series Dance Boss.

The Channel Seven talent show made its debut on Monday night to less than stellar ratings.

The premiere episode drew in just 599,000 viewers across Australia, a disappointing result for the television network.

Flop: Channel Seven's Dance Boss, hosted by Dannii Minogue, debuted to lackluster ratings on Monday night

Hosted by Dannii Minogue, the series sees teams of workers from different professions competing against each other in a dance-off battle.

A team of celebrity judges, made up of Adam Garcia, Sharni Vinson and Timomatic, critique the performances.

But even with Australia's star power behind them, the show turned out a lackluster audience.

Still, it managed to outperform the latest season of Australian Survivor, which attracted just 592,000 viewers on Monday night.

Disappointing debut: The series sees teams of workers from different professions competing against each other in a dance-off battle

Channel Ten this year decided to mix up the formula behind the long-running franchise, but their gamble doesn't seem to be paying off.

The third season of the Aussie series sees champions going up against contenders.

Instead of the usual contestants, elite athletes and military personnel are pitted against everyday Australians.

Could be worse! Despite less than stellar ratings, Dance Boss still outperformed the latest season of Australian Survivor, which attracted just 592,000 viewers on Monday night

But the series appears to be wearing thin with Australian viewers, who don't seem too keen on the updated format.

It's not yet known whether either series will continue beyond their current seasons, but if ratings continue to fall, it's not looking likely.

Daily Mail has reached out to Channel Seven for comment.
Coronation Street star Sally Dyvenor was spotted filming dramatic court scenes on Tuesday, as her character is set to be accused of fraud after being conned out of 40,000 from the mayor's charity fund.

Seen arriving to shoot scenes along with her co-stars, the storyline sees Sally Metcalfe set up by confidence trickster Duncan (played by Nicholas Gleaves), with her neighbour turning against her by choosing to represent the villain.

Also spotting arriving for court is Sally's husband Tim Metcalfe (played by Joe Duttine) who will also be left shell-shocked when Duncan accuses Sally of having an affair in an attempt to hide his con.

Heading down? Coronation Street star Sally Dyvenor was spotted filming dramatic court scenes on Tuesday, as her character is set to be accused of fraud

Suited and booted to appear before the judge, Sally was seen arriving to film the scenes alongside co-stars Joe and Nicholas, who take centre stage in the dramatic storyline.

Meanwhile Sally's sister Gina (played by Connie Hyde) also flashed a smile arriving on set, while Charlie De Melo also made his way into court to film the scenes as Duncan's lawyer Imran.

The storyline will kick into gear next week when Sally is arrested by police while attending the Speed Daal family day.

Explosive: Confidence trickster Duncan (played by Nicholas Gleaves) told Sally he was looking for a donation to his charity, but in reality he was attempting to frame her for fraud

Shocked: Sally will appear in court after being arrested for her crimes, but fans will have to wait and see whether she gets sent down

Supportive: Also seen arriving in court was actress Connie Hyde who plays Sally's sister Gina

Clueless of why she has been arrested, Sally is discovers that she paid 40,000 of the Mayor's charity fund to the con-man, with cunning Duncan planting some evidence by paying 1,000 back into Sally's bank account.

Thing go from bad to worse when Duncan accuses Sally of having an affair in an attempt to cover up the crime, leaving her husband Tim furious.

Fans will have to wait and see whether this will cost Sally her job as the mayor, or whether the fan favourite character would be heading behind bars,

Tense: Things go from bad to worse for Sally when her lawyer neighbour Imran Habeeb decides to represent Duncan

Furious: Actor Joe Duttine, who plays Sally's husband Tim, was also suited and booted to arrive at court for filming

At odds: Tim will also be out to get Duncan, after he claims that he and Sally were having an affair to cover up his crime

Smart: Actor Charlie De Melo - who plays Imran - was also spotted arriving to film the tense court scenes

Hearkening back to a legendary 1998 Corrie storyline, actress Sally told The Sun that fans will need to dig out their Free The Weatherfield One t-shirts, after Deirdre Barlow's own jailing sparked a furious campaign among viewers.

She said: 'Yes, you definitely do! I need all the support I can get at the moment. It's a great story and I'm really enjoying it.

'Sally is really shocked when she's arrested. She doesn't understand what's going on. It's very clever the way Duncan has done it. He's done it drip by drip.

'For Sally that is the worst thing. Not only privileges to be taken away from you and locked in a room without your family, but the shame of it.'

You're nicked! Next week Sally will be arrested by police while attending the Speed Daal family day, as the accuse her of fraud

Explosive: After giving 40,000 to the confidence trickster, Sally's wrong move will lead her to be accused of fraud, after some of the money is traced back to her bank account

Sally also admitted that when actor Nicholas first joined the cast, she had no idea of how his character Duncan's plot would unfold, and played their first scene together completely unawares.

It has also been teased that fireworks could be on the horizon following Duncan's claims of an affair with Sally as actor Nicholas was spotted filming dramatic stake-out scenes with Joe Duttine, who plays Sally's husband Tim.

Die-hard Corrie fans may remember the famous storyline in which Deirdre Barlow (played by the late Anne Kirkbride) was framed for fraud by her deceptive boyfriend, with viewers campaigning for weeks that she be released.

Of course the storyline was already set for Deirdre to be found not guilty and be released, but the Free The Weatherfield One campaign still has a stake in soap history.

Coronation Street continues on Wednesday 8th August at 7:30pm and 8:30pm on ITV.
Margot Robbie has taken on a controversial role in portraying tragic 1960s Hollywood actress Sharon Tate.

And on Monday the 28-year-old was seen leaving the set of Once upon a Time in Hollywood after her first day of filming.

Looking casual in a white shirt and white cut-off shorts, the actress appeared to have changed out of her costume for the day and was en route home.

Hard at work: Margot Robbie was seen leaving the set of Once upon a Time in Hollywood after her first day of filming on Monday

Sporting a makeup-free visage, the Australian star wore her hair in a high ponytail curled into a loose bun, long dark roots showing among her blonde streaks.

Carrying a blue denim jacket and wearing simple white sneakers, Margot looked fresh albeit a ta tired from her day of work.

She carried a phone, what appeared to be a script and a notepad in her arms as she closed a white gate.

Casual: Sporting a makeup-free visage, the Australian star wore her hair in a high ponytail curled into a loose bun, long dark roots showing among her blonde streaks

Transformation: Earlier, Margot could be seen on set in character, an assistant shielding her from the hot Los Angeles summer sun with a red umbrella

Earlier, Margot could be seen on set in character, an assistant shielding her from the hot Los Angeles summer sun with a red umbrella.

It appears the beauty will be wearing a wig for the role of 1960s starlet Sharon, as the first images from costume tests show her with clean blonde locks.

The Wolf of Wall Street actress shared a sneak peek to her Instagram on Monday showing her dressed in a black turtle neck and white miniskirt as Sharon.

Siren: Margot shared the first photo of herself in character as tragic 1960s Hollywood actress Sharon Tate on Monday

Tragic end: Sharon Tate (pictured in 1966) was murdered by Manson family members Charles 'Tex' Watson, Susan Atkins and Patricia Krenwinkel in August 1969

'First look. #OnceUponATimeInHollywood @onceinhollywood' Margot wrote, tagging the upcoming movie.

The Oscar nominee was confirmed to be taking on the role back in May and has revealed it's been a longtime dream of hers to work with director Quentin Tarantino.

The film's storyline, set against the backdrop of the Manson Family murders, casts Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt as Hollywood has-beens looking for a way back on top in the 1960s.

Manson Family members Charles 'Tex' Watson, Susan Atkins and Patricia Krenwinkel butchered Sharon at her and her husband Roman Polanski's Los Angeles home in August 1969 - leaving the word 'PIG' scrawled on the front door in Sharon's blood.
She has enjoyed holidays in Mykonos, Cannes and Italy in the last three months alone.

And Lady Victoria Hervey showed no signs of slowing down her summer on Tuesday, as she jetted to California for even more sunshine.

The socialite, 41, slipped her slim figure into saucy leopard print swimwear, as she spent another day tanning beside her hotel pool.

Sun worshipper: Lady Victoria Hervey, 41, jetted to California for her fourth holiday in three months on Tuesday

The former 'It girl' showed off her slender frame in the bikini, which was patterned with leopard print all over to perfectly complement her bronze tan.

The top cut off just below her bust, to leave her enviably flat stomach on display, while the bottoms pulled into single strings at the side to elongate her already leggy figure.

Opting for minimal make-up and accessorising with nothing but round sunglasses, Victoria drew attention to her youthful complexion as she relaxed by the pool.

Showing her wild side: The socialite, 41, slipped her slim figure into saucy leopard print swimwear, as she spent another day tanning beside her hotel pool

Victoria's trip to California only adds to a jet-set summer, which has seen her holiday in Mykonos, Cannes and Italy so far.

However, while she has been travelling all over the world, Victoria discussed her future plans to settle down and become a mother, after realising her dream for a baby.

She revealed to The Mail On Sunday that she started freezing her eggs in a fertility clinic - which cost her 11,000 - after letting years of partying slip away.

Au naturale: Opting for minimal make-up and accessorising with nothing but round sunglasses, Victoria drew attention to her youthful complexion as she relaxed by the pool

Victoria said: 'Like many women, Ive realised  nearly too late  that I am desperate to have a child. In fact, I want two. Which is why Im hoping science might be able to stop the clock until I can find the right man to be a father to my babies.'

The blonde beauty then added during an interview on Lorraine: 'It was tough, it was emotional, I cried a lot...

'Not just the injections that you had to do daily, but you are put on the pills. You just feel like it is an emotional rollercoaster.'
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West are reportedly planning on installing an enormous pool at their $60 million California estate.

The power couple are said to have obtained an official go-ahead from the city of Hidden Hills last month for the exciting new construction which retails at $50K, according to TMZ.

The lavish new pool is reportedly 20 feet wide and 60 feet long - which is double that of a regular pool.

Everything going swimmingly! Kim Kardashian and Kanye West are reportedly planning on installing an enormous pool at their $60 million California estate

Humble abode: The power couple are said to have obtained an official go-ahead from the city of Hidden Hills last month for the exciting new construction which retails at $50K

It was previously reported by TMZ that the rapper had wished to build a lake in the midst of the grounds of their eight-bedroom and 10 bathroom home, which would be five times the size of any other pool in their gated-community.

However, the large hole had in fact been dug for a new pool, which took two years to dig, and is beginning to take shape with wooden foundations and sideboards slowly being put in place while the couple's water feature is barely any bigger than the initial pool.

MailOnline has contacted representatives for Kim and Kanye for further comment.

It is also said that the doting parents have got the approval for a new $12k guard shack.

Enormous: The lavish new pool is reportedly 20 feet wide and 60 feet long - which is double that of a regular pool

Change of plans: It was previously reported by TMZ that the rapper had wished to build a lake in the midst of the grounds of their eight-bedroom and 10 bathroom home, which would be five times the size of any other pool in their gated-community.

Kim and Kanye moved into their dream $20 million Hidden Hills home in December which has been under renovation for the last four years

They moved into the home, which once belonged to Lisa-Marie Presley, after selling their Bel-Air property, which they purchased in 2013 for $9million, for an eye-watering sum of $17.8million.

In November, Kim excitedly wrote about the Bel-Air home on her website kimkardashianwest.com, as she declared to her fans: 'We just sold our house! We bought it in 2013 and then completely remodelled it.

'Originally, the home had a much more Mediterranean feel but we worked so hard on redoing it to be more minimalist and in our tastes and tones. For the architecture, Kanye and I envisioned having clean, sleek lines.

Security: It is also said that the doting parents have got the approval for a new $12k guard shack

'We wanted to create a more modern feel to the home. The interior design was all about neutral tones and minimal furniture. We also repositioned the pool and added a glam room with its own separate entrance.

'Kanye and I were the designers of the house and we were so involved in every single detail. When the new buyer came to see our home, I wanted to be the one to give her a personal tour because Kanye and I were so proud of what we created.'

Silicon Valley-based Ukrainian philanthropist named Marina Acton in the happy new owner of the Bel-Air home.

Kim, who has recently slimmed down to 119lbs, is mother to three children with Kanye - North, 5, Saint, 2, and six-month Chicago.

Family: Kim, who has recently slimmed down to 119lbs, is mother to three children with Kanye - North, 5, Saint, 2, and six-month Chicago




The association achieved significant results in building a self-reliant and innovative bloc, he said, noting member countries highlighted the need to strengthen cooperation in economy and development among themselves and with partners.

They will focus on fostering intra-bloc connectivity, boosting sustainable development and increasing innovation to make full use of technology advances from the fourth industrial revolution.

ASEAN members showed solidarity to Laos after the devastating hydropower dam collapse through the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on Disaster Management.

The association upheld its stance on issues related to peace and stability in the region such as the East Sea issue, said Dung, adding that all member countries agreed on basic principles on the matter, while sharing viewpoints on issues on the site as well as negotiations for a Code of Conduct in the East Sea.

ASEAN has flexibly admitted proposals of its partners like India, Australia and the Republic of Korea without significantly affecting internal regulations.

Secondly, ASEAN and its partners reached consensus on supporting and promoting multilateralisation and maintaining economic links as well as trade and investment facilitation amidst increasing protectionism.

Most partners shared ASEANs idea on the significance of keeping order in line with international law and the support to multilateral mechanisms, including the World Trade Organisation. They affirmed their close coordination in finalising the negotiation for a Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the ratification of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement on Trans-Pacific Partnership, as well as efforts to balance benefits of all parties.

Deputy FM Dung noted that some partners showed interest in new free trade agreements such as one with Canada, and resuming negotiations for deals with difficulties, such as with the EU.

Thirdly, ASEAN agreed on the need to build an active approach to cooperation initiatives and proposals in the region, such as the Indian Ocean-Pacific, the Belt and Road and the Partnership for Quality Infrastructure initiatives.

Some partners expressed hope that the ASEAN play the central role in the Indian Ocean- Pacific strategy, while China suggested close connection between the Belt and Road Initiative and the Master Plan for ASEAN Connectivity until 2025, said Deputy FM Dung.

Dung said the ministers were busy with various multilateral and bilateral activities, and important discussions.

Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh attended more than 30 activities of the AMM-51 and 15 bilateral meetings with ASEAN countries and partners during the event.

Despite several differences in viewpoints, the AMM-51 and related meetings atmosphere was positive, said Dung, adding that ASEAN and partners efforts to ease the consequences of disasters in Laos, Indonesia and Myanmar showed that solidarity, cooperation and mutual support are still key trends.

Regarding the role of Vietnam in the AMM-51 and related meetings, Deputy FM Dung said Vietnam supported priorities proposed by Singapore.

In his speeches at the meetings, Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh clarified Vietnams stance on various issues.

Singapores suggestion to build a self-reliant and innovative ASEAN is suitable to Vietnams priorities regarding ASEAN, said Dung, highlighting that Vietnam has engaged in the ASEAN Network of Smart Cities, while working closely with other ASEAN countries to promote regional connectivity and the application of Industry 4.0 advances.

Deputy PM and FM Minhs ideas on regional and international issues, including the East Sea matters, were similar to those of many ASEAN countries and partners.

Vietnams role as the coordinator for the ASEAN-India relationship in the past three years was successful and hailed by both sides. On the occasion, Vietnam also took responsibility as the coordinator for ASEAN-Japan relations in 2018-2021, said Dung.
She recently dubbed her beau Simon Motson 'the most awesome human'.

And Myleene Klass looked smitten with her handsome boyfriend as the couple left the Global studios in central London hand-in-hand after her Smooth Radio show on Tuesday.

The multi-talented star, 40, looked sensational as she showed off her perfectly bronzed and svelte figure in a strapless floral jumpsuit by Diane Von Furstenberg.

Couple goals: Myleene Klass looked smitten with her boyfriend Simon Motson as the couple left the Global studios in London hand-in-hand after her Smooth Radio show on Tuesday

Myleene looked every inch the style star as she slipped her figure into the striking blue one-piece.

The number showed off her sensational decolletage before falling at a stylish ankle-grazing length.

The former Hear'Say star boosted her height in a pair of towering white heels and toted her essentials in a matching quilted handbag by Chanel.

Myleene let her brunette tresses free and shielded herself from the scorching sun with a pair of chic shades.

Summer chic: The multi-talented star, 40, looked sensational as she showed off her perfectly bronzed and svelte figure in a strapless floral jumpsuit by Diane Von Furstenberg

Dapper dude: Simon kept things casual in a navy blue shirt and beige chinos, teamed with dark shades and a pair of white Converse trainers

Elegant: The former Hear'Say star boosted her height in a pair of towering white heels and toted her essentials in a matching quilted handbag by Chanel

She opted for a glamorous slick of make-up, focusing on bronzed cheekbones and a bright pink lip.

Simon kept things casual in a navy blue shirt and beige chinos, teamed with dark shades and a pair of white Converse trainers.

Besotted Myleene has been dating her fashion PR boyfriend for two years, and went public with their relationship in May last year.

The brunette raved of their romance to the Daily Mirror: 'He is so hot. It's lovely. I'm enjoying myself.'

Summer loving: Myleene let her brunette tresses free and shielded herself from the scorching sun with a pair of chic shades

The businesswoman is the devoted mother to Ava, 10, and Hero, seven, whom she has with her ex-husband Graham Quinn.

Her ex walked out on her 34th birthday in April 2012 putting an end to their relationship and the couple had their divorce finalised in 2013.

Discussing her devastation, she admitted to Woman magazine: 'I thought I'd never smile or trust anyone ever again.'

Simon has been married before but is also divorced and is the father of two.

The pair met in 2015 shortly after Simon had split from his wife, but kept a low profile until Simon's divorce was finalised out of respect.
She has been busy overseeing the progress of her newly-opened resort, Lohan Beach House.

But Lindsay Lohan treated herself to much-needed break on Monday, as she headed out with a gal pal in Mykonos.

The actress, 32, looked typically chic in a plunging Grecian maxi dress as she embarked on her glamorous night out on the island.

Girls' night: Lindsay Lohan headed out with a gal pal in Mykonos on Monday, after a busy few weeks overseeing the progress of her new island resort, Lohan Beach House

The Mean Girls star was effortlessly stylish in the halterneck dress, which plunged deeply at the chest before it cascaded all the way to the floor.

The frock maintained its Grecian style with a tan rope belt, while Lindsay accessorised with glittering gladiator sandals, in keeping with her surroundings.

Leaving her hair in its everyday style and sporting minimal make-up, the redhead proved her striking natural beauty to all as she headed out with her friend, clad in an equally glamorous red mini dress.

Goddess: The actress, 32, looked typically chic in a plunging Grecian maxi dress as she embarked on her glamorous night out on the island

Having been in the industry since she was 12 years old, the screen star was seen happily signing autographs for fans, before heading off to dinner with her company.

Lindsay spends much of her time in Mykonos, after opening her new resort, Lohan Beach House, on the island.

She also recently announced she will be starring in a reality series about the club, which will follow her antics as the owner and her future business ventures.

According to Page Six, the show aims to be 'a cooler, hipper, edgier Vanderpump Rules', with a 'European flavour' running throughout.

Leading lady: Lindsay spends much of her time in Mykonos, after opening her new resort on the island, as well as a branch in Rhodes

The show marks the Freaky Friday star's first foray into reality television, while her mother Dina and sister Ali starred in their own E! series Living Lohan back in 2006.

Lindsay launched beach resorts in both Mykonos and Rhodes in May, two years after opening Lohan Nightclub in Athens.

Speaking to The New York Times last month, the Parent Trap star revealed she's relishing in life as a businesswomen, since leaving the States for Europe.

She said: 'Theres a business side to my life now, but Im not in America, so no one knows about it, which is nice for me. Because I get to actually focus on the result of things.'
Her award-winning role in 2013's 12 Years A Slave catapulted her to Hollywood's A-list and has given her an incredible platform to have her voice heard on a global scale.

And after being 'shunned' for her 'natural African, kinky hair', Lupita Nyong'o has now spoken candidly about continuing to champion her locks to show other people that, in the face of adversity, they are 'beautiful just the way they are.'

In a stunning new shoot for PORTER magazine, the actress, 35, also admitted that she owes her success to the mother Dorothy, who 'held her own in a patriarchal world' and instilling the importance of her Kenyan roots.

Identity: After being 'shunned' for her 'African, kinky hair', Lupita Nyong'o, 35, has spoken about championing her locks to show other people that they're 'beautiful just the way they are'

Lupita stuns in a series of stylish outfits for the cover and spread shot by acclaimed photographer Mario Sorrenti and styled by Cathy Kasterine.

In the accompanying interview, the Academy Award winning star was quick to detail the importance of her hair after years of it being dubbed 'uncivilised.'

'My hair is something that, historically, has been shunned, I mean, how often do you hear "You cant get a job with hair like that?"

'Natural African, kinky hair  its often been painted as uncivilised or wild. Being featured on the cover of a magazine fulfils me as it is an opportunity to show other dark, kinky-haired people, and particularly our children, that they are beautiful just the way they are,' Lupita stated.

Family: The actress also admitted that she owes her success to the mother Dorothy, who 'held her own in a patriarchal world' and instilling the importance of her Kenyan roots

'Historically it has been shunned': The Academy Award winning star was quick to detail the importance of her hair after years of it being dubbed 'uncivilised'

Last year, the former Hollywood production assistant hit out against Grazia for airbrushing her cover shot.

At the time, Lupita admitted she was 'disappointed they edited and smoothed out' her locks - prompting the fashion publication to apologise.

Lupita's strong views on her identity stems from her mother, who ensured she gained a firm understanding of the world around her.

'My whole outlook and sense of self is Kenyan, but my mom made a point of letting me know that I was born someplace else, so I always felt an affinity, a need to get to know that place. I was the only one in my family born there.

'I'm disappointed': Last year, the former Hollywood production assistant hit out against Grazia for airbrushing her cover shot

'My whole outlook': Lupita's strong views on her identity stems from her mother, who ensured she gained a firm understanding of the world around her

'She had the power to say no to things': Lupita's mum also made sure to not enforce stereotypical gender roles as she grew up

'It was the thing that made me special,' the Black Panther star confessed.

Lupita's mum also made sure to not enforce stereotypical gender roles as she grew up: 'I come from a very patriarchal world, but not within my family.

'My dad listened to my mom. My mom held her own. There was never a sense of her deflecting from my father. She had the power to say no to things, and I saw her hold that power,' she revealed.

In a previous interview, The Jungle Book star revealed she attended an all-boys school with a few female students and rebelled against a rule saying girls were not allowed to wear make-up.

Wow: Lupita stuns in a series of stylish outfits for the cover and spread shot by acclaimed photographer Mario Sorrenti and styled by Cathy Kasterine

The latest issue of Porter also includes an interview with Italian fashion designer, Donatella Versace.

Supermodel Arizona Muse and high profile divorce lawyer Laura Wasser are also featured.

To see the full interview, buy the latest issue of PORTER, on sale globally on Friday 10th August.

Also available as a Digital Edition, or go to https://portersubscription.net-a-porter.com/?prom=PTRFN.
She has found herself thrown into the spotlight, thanks to her romance with TOWIE star Pete Wicks securing her a spot on the much-loved reality series.

And soaking up the sun in Spain last month, Shelby Tribble proved exactly how she has managed to steal the heart of her Essex beau.

The 26-year-old beauty queen looked sensational as she stepped out in a gingham two-piece that made sure to flaunt her ample bust, as well as her pert behind, thanks to its very scanty design.

Setting pulses racing: Shelby Tribble, 26, looked sensational as she slipped into a gingham bikini to soak up the sun in Spain last month

Shelby paraded her envy-inducing frame during her beach outing, slipping into the checked swimwear to top up her, already impressive, tan.

The starlet's two-piece paired together a daringly low-cut bikini top, that framed her ample assets with its open design, and thong bikini bottoms that boasted a high-rise cut - leaving Shelby's peachy posterior firmly on display.

Her bottoms sat high on her hips, drawing further attention to her incredibly honed pins and accentuating her washboard stomach.

Stunning: The former TOWIE star had all eyes on her as she paraded her incredibly honed frame in the very scanty two-piece

Beaming: Bikini-clad Shelby was in high spirits as she kicked back in the Spanish sun and was spotted sporting a huge smile during her beach outing

Busty: Her skimpy swimwear made sure to frame her ample assets with its daringly low-cut bikini top

Shelby beamed with delight during her sunbathing session on the sand and made sure to add a touch of glamour to her barely-there getup by sporting a chic pair of round-framed shades.

Her glossy dark locks were left down to fall past her shoulders, with Shelby sweeping her mane over to one side as she strolled along the beach, and she finished off her holiday look with flawless make-up.

The beauty was seen toying with her bikini as she lay across her towel, getting herself into the perfect position for her tanning efforts.

Beauty: The former Miss Great Britain drew attention to her washboard stomach as she stretched in the sun to place her shades on her head

Chic: Shelby added a pair of stylish round-framed shades to her beach getup

Bottoms up: The brunette beauty left her peachy posterior on full display in her thong bikini bottoms

Kicking back: Shelby looked perfectly at ease as she kicked back in the sunshine

Shelby appeared to be flying solo for the beach visit, but seemed in high spirits as she kicked back on the sand and made the most of her time abroad.

The ITVBe star is currently dating TOWIE regular Pete, with the duo confirming their romance at the beginning of the show's 22nd series that hit screens in March, earlier this year.

Following his split from ex-girlfriend Megan McKenna, Pete has found love with the show newcomer, with Shelby crediting her new boyfriend for being 'everything she loves in a man' after just two months of the pair dating.

Smoking: The beauty was caught toying with her bikini bottoms as she got into perfect position for her tanning efforts

Daring! The starlet's scanty bikini left little to the imagination as she reclined on her towel

Happy: Smitten Shelby appeared content while strolling along the sand - despite appearing to fly solo without beau Pete Wicks

Loved-up: She began dating the Essex star, earlier this year, with their romance securing her a place on TOWIE alongside him

Keen: Shelby has credited her new boyfriend for being 'everything she loves in a man' after just two months of the pair dating

The former Miss Great Britain told The Sun: 'He's so caring and protective and he's got so many qualities that I love in a man. We're very similar, we think the same, we do things the same, and its really weird.'

She also had her say on Pete's fiery on/off relationship with former love Megan and insisted she 'doesn't feel threatened' by his ex.

'I think that's done,' Shelby claimed. 'What's meant to be will be, but I think that's done because it wasn't very good.

'They weren't healthy for each other and I'm sure at the time they loved each other, but they weren't right for each other.'

Girls' night out: Shelby slipped into a red mini-dress as she joined TOWIE co-star Clelia Theodorou (right) for an evening at STK Ibiza on Sunday to celebrate DJ Jonas Blue's birthday

Squad: BFFs Shelby and Clelia were joined by (L-R) ex TOWIE star Fran Parman, Survival Of The Fittest winner Metisse Campbell and Love Island's Georgia Harrison and Montana Brown

Sheer daring: Montana and Georgia, who appeared on the 2017 edition of the ITV2 reality show, both ensured all eyes were on them in racy see-through outfits
She's the brown-eyed girl who made waves on Bachelor in Paradise.

But on Tuesday night Elora Murger was a green-eyed beauty as she chose a pair of jade-toned contact lenses to wear out to the launch of a new bar at Sydney's iconic Darling Harbour.

The 28-year-old was also flaunting her near waist-length hair, newly dyed in a deep mahogany colour.

Green with envy: She's the brown-eyed girl who made waves on Bachelor in Paradise. But on Tuesday night Elora Murger was a green-eyed beauty as she chose a pair of jade-toned contact lenses to wear out to the launch of a new bar at Sydney's iconic Darling Harbour

The stunner also had her enviable curves on display in a pair of retro orange pants with side slits that showed off her waist and upper thighs.

Glimpses of the beauty's tattoo could be seen through the openings, which were buttoned in place.

The former Bachelor star's pert derriere was also on display, her tight tangerine flares cupping her toned behind.

New hair don't care: The 28-year-old was also flaunting her near waist-length hair, newly dyed in a deep mahogany colour

Racy: A glimpse of the reality star's taut stomach could also be seen in her revealing shirt

Glimpse: The babe wore a cheeky midriff top, which was tied in a knot at the waist

Lovely: Tanned from her recent trip to Byron Bay, the brunette smiled as she posed for cameras in front of a green flower wall

A glimpse of the reality star's taut stomach could also be seen in her revealing midriff top, which was tied in a knot at the waist.

Tanned from her recent trip to Byron Bay, the brunette smiled as she posed for cameras in front of a green flower wall.

Minimal makeup including a black-lined eye and a pair of large hoop earrings completed the chic look.

Comfy and chic: The dark-haired reality star later posed seductively on white stools at the waterside bar

Trendy: Minimal makeup including a black-lined eye and a pair of large hoop earrings completed the beauty's look

So long! The Bachelor In Paradise star's new mahogany red hair reached past her bust

Nice kicks! As she sat back, arching her back, Elora showed off her clean white sneakers

Cozy! The former Bachelor star was toasty next to a small fire at the bar behind a casing

The dark-haired reality star later posed seductively on white leather stools at the waterside bar, showing off her clean white sneakers.

Elora, who recently split from Salvatore Savarese, stripped off for a photo shoot, posing topless in a campaign promoting crystals for Native Riot on Monday.

The Byron Bay business shared a racy snap to Instagram in which Elora strategically covered her nipples with her hands while wearing several crystal necklaces.
Laurina Fleure, 34, had a Chanel tote stolen when her car was reportedly broken into on Sunday and within 36 hours $700 was swiped from her bank account.

Police are investigating after thieves are said to have targeted the Bachelor In Paradise star's vehicle when it was left unlocked on Toorak Road, Melbourne.

Sources told Daily Mail Australia Laurina 'was relieved' her chihuahua Teddy wasn't abducted as he was sat in the front seat when the theft took place.

EXCLUSIVE: 'She was relieved her chihuahua wasn't abducted': Laurina Fleure's (pictured) 'car was targeted by thieves who stole $700 and her Chanel tote bag' in Melbourne on Sunday

Laurina explained she had left her car unlocked for two minutes while she ran into the 7-Eleven convenience store at the top of Toorak Road.

She claims she was unaware her car had been broken into until she was alerted by her bank that $700 had been drained from her account.

A spokesperson for Laurina told Daily Mail Australia: 'Thieves quickly ran to the unlocked car and stole a Chanel tote back from her back seat.

'She didn't even realise until her bank alerted her there was fraudulent activity on her card in excess of $700.

Examination: Police are investigating after thieves are said to have targeted the Bachelor In Paradise star's vehicle when it was left unlocked on Toorak Road in Melbourne. Pictured: A Victoria Police officer dusting Laurina's car for prints

'She didn't notice the bag or card missing because she usually pays with Apple Pay on her phone. The thieves used her card over the next 36 hours.

'Lucky they didn't steal her three-month-old chihuahua Teddy, who was waiting on the front seat for her.'

Police are understood to be tracing CCTV footage as well as searching 10 service stations while they carry out their investigations.

Frightening: Sources told Daily Mail Australia Laurina 'was relieved' her chihuahua Teddy (pictured) wasn't abducted as he was sat in the front seat when the theft took place

Laurina's spokesperson added: 'Police are tracking all the CCTV footage from the scene as well as the 10 different service stations.'

Two days after the incident, Laurina informed her 72,000 Instagram followers that her car had been broken into.

The former I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! star shared a video of a police officer dusting down her vehicle for prints.

Investigation begin: Two days after the incident, Laurina informed her 72,000 Instagram followers that her car had been broken into

'When your car gets broken into and they need to check for finger prints,' she captioned the clip.

Laurina is best known for her appearances on Channel Ten shows The Bachelor, Bachelor In Paradise and I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here!

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Victoria Police for comment.
Shaun Weiss, renowned for his role as Goldberg the goalie in The Mighty Ducks, was arrested for public intoxication around 1am on August 4 in Oroville, California, but he was soon released without citation hours later.

The former actors mugshot is a far cry from the fresh face that fans of The Mighty Ducks franchise know from the 1990s and this is not the first time that Shaun Weiss has been on the wrong side of the law, after having served time for theft and drug possession two times last year.

He was previously arrested for stealing $151-worth of electronics products and was sentenced to jail time and days after his release, arrested again for possession of suspected methamphetamine. But who is Shaun Weiss?

Shaun Weiss, renowned for his role in The Mighty Ducks, was arrested for public intoxication

Shaun Weiss

Born on August 27, 1978 in Montvale, New Jersey as the youngest of five children, Shaun Weiss is known for his portrayal as Greg Goldberg in the The Mighty Ducks franchise, but his first role was as Elvis on Pee-wees Playhouse at the age of eight, according to Heavy.com.

Despite not having starred in anything for 10 years, Weiss has had a long career and appeared in around 30 adverts, the most memorable being one for Pizza Hut that was placed at the beginning of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movies on VHS.

He also appeared in ads for Kraft Macaroni and Cheese, Castrol and Captain Morgan rum and his last advert appearance, according to IMDb was in 2009, when he was featured in a Verizon ad. He was 30 at the time.

Weiss is pictured right in the second installment of the Mighty Ducks franchise in 1994

Shaun made appearances in the odd episode in a number of shows including Charles in Charge, Webster, Empty Nest, The Cosby Show and Here and Now before The Mighty Ducks, D2: The Mighty Ducks and D3: The Mighty Ducks.

He also starred in films Crazy for a Kiss and the Steven Brill and Judd Apatow Disney movie Heavyweights before playing a student in Sabrina, the Teenage Witch and Saved by the Bell: The New Class.

During the 1990s, Weiss also appeared in Mr Rhodes, The Tony Danza Show, Boy Meets World and had a few small roles on The King of Queens before starring in four episodes of Freaks and Geeks. His most recent appearances include City Guys, Pumpkin, Pack of Dogs, Las Vegas and Drillbit Taylor in 2008.

Shaun Weiss arrest

As reported in TMZ, Shaun Weiss was arrested for public intoxication in the early hours of Saturday morning in Oroville, California and after spending a few hours in jail, he was released and not cited.

Weiss was also arrested a year ago for possession of meth just five days after he was sentenced to 150 days in prison for stealing $151-worth of electronic goods, but only served 12 days due to overcrowding.
His catchphrase 'winning' became infamous all around the world in 2011.

And seven years since first uttering the defining statement, Charlie Sheen has revealed the reality of his life at that time was actually the opposite.

The US actor, 52, spoke candidly during an interview with Waleed Aly, 39, on Tuesday's episode of Network Ten's The Project.

Scroll down for video

'It didn't make much sense!' Charlie Sheen revealed he was never actually 'winning' during infamous meltdown as he reveals it was a mystery celebrity convinced him otherwise

Touching upon the subject, Waleed started the interview by asking: 'Would you say you're still winning?'

The actor then responded: 'If I'm alive then I am still winning!'

Delving deeper into Charlie's difficult time, Waleed then questioned: 'Are you winning more now than you were when you said it all those times?'

Charlie, unfazed by the subject, laughed: 'Yeah, it didn't really make much sense when you break it down.'

Throwback: Charlie first referred to himself as 'winning' during an infamous interview with American television program 20/20 in March 2011

Looking back: 'I'd been fired from the show which was going pretty good, I lost the ability to hang out with my kids, they kept all my money, and somehow in my mind that came out as winning,' Charlie now said of the confusing statement

Charlie first referred to himself as 'winning' during an interview with American television program 20/20 in March 2011.

The star had just been axed from his starring role on sitcom Two and a Half Men at the time.

Recalling the experience The Project on Tuesday, he explained: 'I'd been fired from the show which was going pretty good, I lost the ability to hang out with my kids, they kept all my money, and somehow in my mind that came out as winning.'

Heading Down Under: Charlie appeared on the Australian show while promoting his upcoming An Evening With Charlie Sheen speaking tour across the country

When asked what inspired the quote, Charlie hinted it was a conversation with a big-name star.

'I'd had a conversation with someone the day before, I can't say who but it was someone I was a big fan of, and they said we're a little bit different and we have Adonis DNA,' he said.

'He said, "most of the time we're just winning." This really struck me in a way and the following day I did that famous interview where it all imploded.

'When I went back to my friend and said, "sorry about that, I didn't mean to steal your thunder," he said, "no it's okay, clearly it wound up in the right guy's brain and mouth."'

Up close and personal: 'It's an evening to get some stories from the source and hear the truth about certain things,' Charlie said while plugging the November tour

The Anger Management actor appeared on the Australian show while promoting his upcoming An Evening With Charlie Sheen speaking tour across the country.

When asked what Aussie fans can expect, he said: 'It's an evening to get some stories from the source and hear the truth about certain things, if people are curious.'

'And just to have a fabulous time in Australia and leave behind some cheers.'

Charlie will be in Melbourne on November 03 and Sydney on November 04.

Richard Wilkins will host the live event on stage with the superstar.
She suffered a serious ankle injury during a punishing challenge on Australian Survivor that should have sent her home.

But despite collapsing on Tuesday night's episode, Jenna Austin has refused to quit the competition.

The day's challenge had to be halted and a medic called in to treat the 28-year-old as she writhed on the sand, screaming in agony.

Pained: She suffered a serious ankle injury during a punishing challenge on Australian Survivor that should have sent her home. But despite collapsing on Monday night's episode, Jenna Austin has refused to quit the competition

Despite being given medical advice that she could not continue the challenge, the FIFO worker tried to go on.

The Perth native's face reddened and contorted in obvious pain but she insisted: 'I'm good. I want to finish this!'

The doctor advised: 'Jenna... we don't know if you've got some ligament injury there. Put your health first, okay?'

Hurt: Despite medical advice that insisted she could not continue the challenge, the FIFO worker tried to go on. Jenna was finally talked out of continuing the challenge, but back at camp, she wept over her injury

Not easy: 'If I keep going I'm gonna do damage that can't be reversed,' Jenna said before breaking down. Pictured: One of the show's notoriously tough physical challenges

After some back and forth, Jenna was finally talked out of continuing the challenge, but back at camp, she broke down.

'I'm absolutely devastated to be honest. I'm so angry that I put my hand up. Until I know what's going on, this could jeopardise the whole tribe,' she said, before covering her eyes with a bandanna as she wept.

Her foot bandaged and resting on an ice pack, Jenna revealed that the doctor warned her she may never recover if she kept undertaking brutal challenges.

Out: At tribal council that night, Jenna was spared elimination with NSW takeaway delivery rider Steve K (pictured) ousted

'If I keep going I'm going to do damage that can't be reversed. So, she advises that I don't do it anymore,' she told her tribe mates before breaking down in tears.

At tribal council that night, Jenna was spared elimination with NSW takeaway delivery rider Steve K ousted.

Despite his efforts to form alliances with the other men in the Contender tribe, and urging his tribe mates to vote out some of the younger women, Steve was bumped.
It's the red carpet look that still has people talking to this very day.

And even Rosie Huntington-Whiteley couldn't resist taking inspiration from Elizabeth Hurley's racy look from the 1994 premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral.

Ahead of attending LA premiere of The Meg with fiance Jason Statham on Monday, the British model, 31, took to her Instagram Stories to share a snap of the actress, captioning it: 'Fiance's Hollywood movie premiere vibes.'

Iconic: On Tuesday, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley couldn't resist taking inspiration from Elizabeth Hurley's racy look from the 1994 premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral

It has been 24 years since Elizabeth stunned onlookers with a slinky black Versace dress, which held her in place with giant gold safety pins.

Arriving on the arms of her then boyfriend Hugh Grant, the Austin Powers oozed sex appeal as she put on a confident display for photographers.

And on Tuesday, Rosie slipped her statuesque figure into a figure-hugging black gown reminiscent of Elizabeth's.

Rosie was quick to take to her social media account to share two cropped pictures of Elizabeth, and tagged her stylist to inform her of the vibes she was hoping for the event.

Throwback! Ahead of attending LA premiere of The Meg with fiance Jason Statham on Monday, the British model, 31, took to her Instagram Stories to share a snap of the actress

Head-turning: It has been 24 years since Elizabeth stunned onlookers with a slinky black Versace dress, which held her in place with giant gold safety pins

Eyes on her! Arriving on the arms of her then boyfriend Hugh Grant, the Austin Powers oozed sex appeal as she put on a confident display for photographers

The Plymouth born beauty also uploaded two hair and beauty looks of models sporting glamorous blowdries, however ended up going for a chic chignon.

During the premiere for The Meg, Rosie showcased her cleavage in her sleeveless dress that had a plunging sweetheart neckline.

Her gown hugged her curves as it fell to the floor and pooled around her feet with a small train.

The stunner wore her long hair styled back from her face in a stylish updo and rocked statement gold earrings and bangles.

Inspo: Rosie slipped her statuesque figure into a figure-hugging black gown reminiscent of Elizabeth's

A look: Rosie was quick to take to her social media account to share two cropped pictures of Elizabeth, and tagged her stylist to inform her of the vibes she was hoping for the event

Make-up look: The Plymouth born beauty also uploaded two hair and beauty looks of models sporting glamorous blowdries, however ended up going for a chic chignon

Glamorous: During the premiere for The Meg, Rosie showcased her cleavage in her sleeveless dress that had a plunging sweetheart neckline

Rosie looked in high spirits as she supported fiance Jason - who she shares one-year-old son Jack with - for his new flick.

The Meg is the mother of all shark movies, with Jason going head to head with a pre-historic 75-foot-long shark known as the Megalodon.

He stars as an expert deep sea rescue diver who's hired to rescue the crew of a submersible trapped on the floor of the deepest part of the Pacific after a run-in with the giant creature.

The horror action adventure opens in theatres on August 10.

Statement: Her gown hugged her curves as it fell to the floor and pooled around her feet with a small train

'Out in theatres on August 10': Rosie looked in high spirits as she supported fiance Jason - who she shares one-year-old son Jack with - for his new flick




Permanent Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son, head of the committee, said the forum is one of the countrys important external activities in 2018.

So far, leaders of most ASEAN countries and extra-bloc nations as well as representatives from major international organisations and global leading groups have affirmed to participate in the event, he revealed.

He urged the sub-committees to double efforts to complete the preparation of the forum in August to ensure its comprehensive success.

The official asked members of the organising committee, including representatives from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Quang Ninh, to obtain this opportunity to promote their localities development potential in the fields of its strength while proactively boosting cooperation with countries and leading groups in the world to expand markets and draw investment.

The WEF ASEAN 2018 focuses on the theme ASEAN 4.0: Entrepreneurship and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

The event will address strategic issues of national and regional significance under three thematic pillars  Entrepreneurship to craft new approaches to regional and global governance; Entrepreneurship to drive economic and business dynamism; and Entrepreneurship to shape social inclusion.

It is expected to draw 800  1,000 delegates.

The forum will covers 60 sessions, including sideline activities such as a forum on innovative start-up, a festival on Vietnamese culture, a business summit, and a fact-finding tour to Ha Long Bay in the northeastern province of Quang Ninh.
David Finchers critically-acclaimed Netflix series Mindhunters is scheduled to return in 2019, and it looks like Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallanys FBI agents could come face-to-face with Charles Manson.

According to The Hashtag Show, the famous cult-leader is confirmed for season 2 of the true crime series.

The outlet also says that Charles Tex Watson, Mansons right-hand man and the leader of the group that broke into Roman Polanskis home and brutally murdered his then 8-and-half-month pregnant wife, actress Sharon Tate, will also feature in the second season.

Cult leader Charles Manson will reportedly feature in David Fincher's Mindhunter season 2

Mindhunter, which is based on the true crime book 'Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit', is not the only TV series or film currently interested in the Manson family murders.

Quentin Tarantinos Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, due to be released in July 2019 and starring Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio and Margot Robbie, is centered around the Sharon Tate murder.

There are also two more upcoming films that focus on Sharon Tate: Hillary Duffs The Haunting of Sharon Tate and Kate Bosworths Tate.

Who was Charles Manson?

Charles Manson was the Ohio-born California cult leader whose so-called Manson family carried out a series of brutal murders in the summer of 1969.

As a child, Mansons mother reportedly sold him to a woman who wanted to have children for a pitcher of beer. As a child and young adult, Manson was in and out of reform schools and prison for various infractions such as stealing.

In 1967 he was released from prison and met a music teacher who introduced him to Dennis Wilson of the Beach Boys. By that point Manson was already started to attract a following, mainly of young women.

Wilson then introduced Manson to the music producer Terry Melcher, who at first is interested in Mansons music but ultimately decides against working with him in 1968.

In July 1969, Gary Hinman was murdered by the Manson family. Manson needed money to facilitate a move away from the Spahn Ranch, where the cult stayed.

He thought that Hinman was about to come into a large sum of money and so Mansons followers held the music teacher hostage in his own home to make him give them the money. When Hinman didnt, Manson sliced his left ear off with a sword and he was ultimately stabbed to death by Bobby Beausoleil.

Manson ordered the brutal murders of 9 people in the summer of '69 including Sharon Tate's

The following month, on August 9, on Mansons order, Manson Family cult members Tex Watson, Susan Atkins, Linda Kasabian and Patricia Krenwinkel were sent to the house occupied by Sharon Tate and Roman Polanski, though the director was out of the country at the time.

They were told to totally destroy everyone in it, as gruesome as you can. On the night of the murder Tate had three friends round, hairstylist Jay Sebring, Polanskis friend Wojciech Frykowski and his partner, the coffee heiress Abigail Folger. All were brutally murdered by Mansons followers.

It is thought that the motivation for the murders was that the house used to be owned by Terry Melcher, the producer who rejected Manson, but he had moved away by that point.

So far, Manson had not actually murder anyone himself, but that changed the following night when he and six of his followers broke into the home of Leno and Rosemary LaBianca and stabbed them to death.

Manson and his followers were arrested that October, not for the murders but on suspicion of auto theft. It is only in December, after stories from Mansons followers about the murders to other inmates, that the cult leader and the murderers are actually indicted for the Tate and LaBianca murders.

Manson was found guilty in 1971 and remained in prison until his death in 2017.

Mindhunter season 2 rumoured serial killers

Charles Manson will not be the only notorious real-life figure reported to be appearing on the second season of Mindhunter.

We need to talk to more subjects. pic.twitter.com/7pTnxAhM0G  MINDHUNTER (@MINDHUNTER_) November 30, 2017

According to That Hashtag Show, Mindhunter season 2 will also feature the likes of The Son of Sam David Berkowitz, the Stocking Strangler William Henry Hance, Elmer Wayne Henley. William Pierce Jr and the return of Dennis Rader AKA the BTK Killer, who lurked in the shadows of season 1.

Series creator David Fincher also said that the show will explore the 1979-1981 Atlanta child murders: Next year, were looking at the Atlanta child murders, so well have a lot more African-American music which will be nice. The music will evolve. Its intended to support whats happening with the show and for the show to evolve radically between seasons.
She married six weeks ago, but Millie Mackintosh still has her beautiful wedding on her mind.

The ex Made In Chelsea star shared a behind the scenes look of her wedding dress fittings on Tuesday, posting a number of exquisite photos to her Instagram account.

The newlywed, who married Hugo Taylor on June 22, revealed design sketches from Kate Halfpenny as well as selfies as she posed in the designer's shop throughout the process.

Newlywed: Millie Mackintosh shared a behind the scenes look of her wedding dress fittings on Tuesday, posting a number of exquisite photos to her Instagram account

Millie enlisted celebrated London designer Kate, who also crafted Emilia Fox's wedding dress, to create her bespoke, off-the-shoulder lace gown.

Using French lace, spotted tulle and silk organza, the dress included a quirky detail in its detachable bubble sleeves, while a long veil completed the look.

In the photos shared by Millie, a design sketch shows off the original handwritten notes from Kate, with the bride captioning the snap 'where the magic began.'

The beginning: The newlywed, who married Hugo Taylor on June 22, revealed sketches from London designer Kate Halfpenny who created the bespoke gown

She included close ups of the dress' gorgeous detail before posing in Kate's London boutique for snaps.

Millie also shared a closer look at her stunning gold leaf crown from Tilly Thomas Lux, which complemented the ethereal feel of her dress beautifully.

The final touch was her towering Gucci heels, with the platform pair covered in dazzling silver glitter.

Stunning: Using French lace, spotted tulle and silk organza, the dress included a quirky detail in its detachable bubble sleeves, while a long veil completed the look

Quirky touches: As well as the detachable sleeves, Millie's dress included a lace over skirt which could be removed

Millie and Hugo said their vows at his uncle's country estate, Whithurst Park, in West Sussex on June 22, with the wedding covered by Hello! Magazine.

The couple dated in 2011 while on Made In Chelsea, but split when it emerged Hugo had cheated on her with her friend Rosie Fortescue, who attended the wedding alongside a bevy of their other co-stars including Caggie Dunlop and Jamie Laing.

They reunited in May 2016 shortly after Millie's split from first husband, rapper Professor Green.

Strike a pose: The bride-to-be posed for a number of mirror selfies throughout her fittings

Wedding bells: Millie and Hugo said their vows at his uncle's country estate, Whithurst Park, in West Sussex on June 22

Millie was married to the musician, real name Stephen Manderson, 34, for two-and-a-half years.

The couple announced their split in February 2016 and finalised their divorce in May 2016, the same week that Millie went public with Hugo.

Hugo then popped the question during a holiday in Mykonos, Greece, in July 2017.

Detail: Millie also shared a closer look at her stunning gold leaf crown from Tilly Thomas Lux, which complemented the ethereal feel of her dress beautifully

Talking about his bride, Hugo told Hello! magazine at the wedding: 'I knew she was The One within about five minutes of us getting back together.'

Millie concurred: 'But if we'd stayed together when we were younger, we wouldn't be together now.

'We had to go away, do our separate things and grow as people. We needed that time apart.'

Sparkle: The final touch was her towering Gucci heels, with the platform pair covered in dazzling silver glitter

After years of partying, it is not surprising that the couple injected details of their wild child ways into the day as they revealed they had named tables after nightclubs they held dear to their hearts - with them sitting on the 'Boujis' table.

Speaking of the big day, Millie said: 'The whole day has felt like an out-of-body experience.

'Even in my wildest dreams I didn't imagine it would be this perfect. I am so excited to finally be married to Hugo - he's the love of my life.'
Married At First Sight star Ben Jardine announced his marriage was over during an interview with FUBAR Radio in March, much to the shock of his wife Stephanie.

But amid the bitter split, the estranged couple are finally moving ahead with their divorce, as they visited a solicitor's office on Monday to start proceedings.

Ben and Stephanie, who met and married on Channel 4's extreme matchmaking show earlier this year, were both pictured beaming with delight as they moved the legalities of their split along amid reports Ben has signed up for the new series of Celebrity Big Brother.

Moving on: Married At First Sight star Ben Jardine began divorce proceedings from his estranged wife Stephanie on Monday, arriving at a solicitor's office

Both Ben and Steph dressed up for the meeting, with the millionaire property developer choosing a smart three piece suit.

Police office Stephanie meanwhile dazzled in a mint green high waisted skirt and chic black lace jacket.

The gorgeous brunette was joined by two friends for support, but looked in great spirits as she laughed with her pals outside the office.

It's over! Police officer Steph looked in great spirits as she arrived for the meeting with the support of two friends. The couple won't be able to officially divorce until January 2019

Ben meanwhile appeared to joke about the meeting, sharing a selfie of himself in the suit alongside the hashtag #toughdayattheoffice.

There's been further exciting developments for Ben this week, asThe Sun report he has been signed up for the new series of CBB, which kicks off on Channel 5 next week.

A source told The Sun Online: 'Ben has had a year from hell so is thrilled to be going on Celebrity Big Brother. It means he can finally put the past behind him and move on.'

'Ben's career is definitely on the up. He is absolutely made for TV and is the perfect choice for Celebrity Big Brother.

Wedding bells: Ben and Stephanie met for the first time at the altar on Channel 4's extreme matchmaking show earlier this year but Ben announced their split in March

Insiders claim Ben's energetic personality will be a hit with viewers, after he became the talking point of the latest series of MAFS.

'Ben is bursting with charisma and charm and is also such a nice guy to be around. He's definitely going to prove popular with both his fellow housemates and viewers at home,' says the source.

While they have kicked off proceedings, Ben and Steph will have to wait until January 2019 to officially divorce, with Ben explaining to The Sun he hadn't considered the timeline when he announced the split.

'We were both 110 per cent in it to make it work. I never got into this to get divorced so didn't ever consider that we'd be have to stay together for a year if it didn't work,' he insists.

'Now I just want closure. That's why I revealed we'd split, I was sick of lying and everyone burying their heads in the sand thinking we'd sort it out.'

Break up: Ben appeared to joke about the solicitor's meeting, sharing a selfie of himself in his suit on Monday alongside the hashtag #toughdayattheoffice

Ben previously accused his estranged wife of holding up their divorce proceedings and not giving him the closure he needs to move on from their relationship.

Speaking to The Sun Online in March, the 36-year-old property millionaire claimed his police officer ex wasn't impressed that he announced their TV marriage was over during an interview with FUBAR Radio.

He began: 'At the end of the day you need to draw a line under it. Stephanie knew months before that radio interview, and I asked for my divorce papers, Id asked and asked and asked.

'And it was like, "Im never gonna get these divorce papers", because I never got them. Were divorced  do you know what I mean, thats what its about.'

Ben confessed he's been left 'drained' by the battle to receive the papers and admitted that those around them have remained hopeful about them working their relationship out but he can no longer 'live a lie'.

TV star: There's been further exciting developments for Ben this week, as The Sun report he has been signed up for the new series of CBB, which kicks off on Channel 5 next week

Explaining that he doesn't believe his ex is withholding the divorce papers on purpose, Ben insisted that all he wants is 'closure' from the relationship.

'I dont she think was withholding them; I just tried to get - Ive just still not got them... I dont want people telling me what to do. I just want closure, I just want to move on with my life and [signing them] is the only way to get closure.'

He shocked fans of Channel 4's extreme matchmaking show Married At First Sight this month when he announced he is divorcing wife.

His cutting comments come after Ben insisted his marriage was doomed to fail, labelling the short-lived union 'a chore' in a piece written for Bella magazine, in which he also claims his estranged wife is delaying divorce proceedings.

Moving on: The 36-year-old property millionaire claimed his police officer ex wasn't impressed that he announced their TV marriage was over during an interview with FUBAR Radio

The property developer met police officer Steph at their wedding, after both signed up for the third series of the UK show, charming viewers with their instant chemistry.

Ben admits he thought he'd 'hit the jackpot' when he first laid eyes on Stephanie on their wedding day, and their honeymoon in Mallorca also saw sparks fly.

But writing for Bella, Ben says it was when the couple returned to London and moved in together that he realised the match was never going to work.

'On our honeymoon the chemistry was undeniable. But the honeymoon wasn't reality. We were living in a bubble that soon popped once we returned to real life,' he says.

Ben explained that, 'I just didn't fancy her,' before calling their marriage 'a chore'.

Match: The property developer met police officer Steph at their wedding, after both signed up for the third series of the UK show, charming viewers with their instant chemistry

As MAFS viewers saw, Stephanie tried to make their marriage work, desperately willing her husband to talk through their issues.

But Ben has claimed he felt suffocated by his wife and her referral to him as 'her husband' despite the fact that their marriage for TV was legally binding.

While the couple decided to stay married in the finale of the show, ultimately their relationship only lasted another few weeks when the cameras stopped filming.

Ben explains the couple stopped living together and only saw each other once a week, before Ben decided to call it quits.

Kiss: Ben admits he thought he'd 'hit the jackpot' when he first laid eyes on Stephanie on their wedding day, and their honeymoon in Mallorca also saw sparks fly

'"It's not working and I don't think it ever will," I said to her.

She cried and said she wanted us to try, but I had to tell her bluntly. "it ain't there kiddo",' he reveals.

The property developer insists he talked to Stephanie about seeking a divorce, despite claims from her friends that the heartbroken police officer only found out her husband wanted to split when he announced the news on FUBAR Radio, with Steph reading the news on MailOnline the next day.

The couple will have to remain married for a year before they can divorce, but Ben is desperate to move on, giving multiple interviews in recent months while Stephanie has remained silent.

She has had her corner fiercely fought by her friends though, with former Married At First Sight star Sara May leaping to Steph's defence on social media.

Sara shared a girls' night out with Steph and fellow MAFS UK star Melissa two weeks ago, with the three ladies posting for selfies on Instagram.

Shock: The property developer insists he talked to Stephanie about seeking a divorce, despite claims from her friends that the heartbroken police officer only found out her husband wanted to split when he announced the news on FUBAR Radio

But as fans in the comments linked to MailOnline's article revealing Ben had announced his divorce, Sara made the shock revelation that Steph found out about the split via the press too.

'So we all found out via this article just now too. Even Steph. What a t**t,' Sara wrote.

She had earlier tweeted: 'The calibre and integrity of men this show chooses is beyond me sometimes. To announce your divorce to your wife via a radio show and Daily mail article is disgusting.'

'Not all of the men. Just some. But this one in particular.'
They have recently seen their eldest child Dani Dyer being crowned Love Island winner alongside beau Jack Fincham.

And Danny Dyer has now confessed that it was his daughter, who at the tender age of three, brought him back together with his wife Joanne Mas after they separated.

The EastEnders actor, 41, admitted that during their time apart they 'began having an affair and were sneaking around like schoolkids' before finally deciding to give their romance another go for the sake of Dani.

Confession: Danny Dyer, 41, admitted that during his split from Joanne Mas, they 'began having an affair and were sneaking around like schoolkids'

Speaking candidly to The Sunday Times Magazine, Danny explained that his relationship with Joanne fell apart due their young.

Danny explained: 'I cant remember a time when I wasnt a dad. Me and Joanne had Dani when I was 18 and . . . f***ing hell, we were kids!'

The pair went on to split when Dani was only three years old and started seeing other people.

However, it wasn't long before the actor found himself back in the arms of Joanne, admitting that he did 'everything in his power' to spend more time with her and Dani.

'Lets give it a go': The former EastEnders star confessed that it was his daughter, who at the tender age of three, brought him back together with his wife Joanne Mas after they separated

Danny explained: 'I dont know if Joanne saw how much I missed em, but the visits started getting longer and wed sit down with a cup of tea.

'Next minute... were having an affair. I said: 'F*** this! Were sneaking around like schoolkids. Weve got a beautiful girl. Lets give it a go".'

Joanne and Danny have been together since 1992 and only tied the knot in September of 2016.

Parting ways: The pair split when Dani was only three years old and started seeing other people

'Next minute... were having an affair': Despite his split from Joanne, it wasn't long before the actor found himself back in her arms, admitting that he did 'everything in his power' to spend more time with her and Dani

Last year, the pair's romance fell on hard times again following reports of his 'unfaithful behaviour'.

The pair were reported to have split in early 2017 - following reports the actor had a long-term affair with former Girls Aloud star Sarah Harding, while filming 2012 flick Run for Your Wife.

And following months of speculation, Danny and Joanne are now happily back on.

On/off: Last year, the pair's romance fell on hard times again following reports of his 'unfaithful behaviour' - however they are firmly back on

Triumphant: Despite being overseas, the pair made sure to support Dani and publicly declared how 'proud' they are of their daughter for her appearance on the ITV2 dating show Love Island, following her victory

Danny and Joanne, who have two more children - daughter Sunnie, 11, and son Arty, five, have just returned from a trip to Orlando, Florida.

Despite being overseas, the pair made sure to support Dani and publicly declared how 'proud' they are of their daughter for her appearance on the ITV2 dating show Love Island, following her victory.

The brunette beauty was victorious on the show and scooped the Love Island title, along with the show's 50,000 cash prize, that has been split between Dani and boyfriend Jack.
They have been partying non-stop after Love Island drew to a close last week.

And despite feeling under the weather, Alexandra Cane looked sensational as she stepped out in Guildford on Monday night with her co-star Georgia Steel, 20.

The reality star, 27, slipped her hourglass curves into a strapless white gown as she headed to Casino nightclub.

Glam: Despite feeling under the weather, Alexandra Cane looked sensational as she stepped out in Guildford on Monday night with her co-star Georgia Steel, 20

Alexandra, who stepped in for winner Dani Dyer for the nightclub appearance, teased a glimpse of her leggy frame in the figure-hugging dress with a thigh-high split.

Styling her raven tresses in Hollywood curls, the Love Island alumni complemented her heavily-bronzed tan with a radiant make-up look and added a boost to her statuesque frame with white stilettos.

After her night out, Alexandra revealed she felt 'ill with exhaustion' as she lay on her bed in an Instagram clip.

Stunning: The new-found reality star, 27, slipped her hourglass curves into a strapless white gown as she headed to Casino nightclub for her personal appearance

Leggy: Georgia, who rose to fame with her catchphrase 'I'm loyal, real and honest' on the hit ITV2 series showed off her tanned and toned body in a tiny white lace dress

Confident display: The former drama student oozed confidence as she strutted into the nightclub in a pair of gold strappy sandals

Gorgeous: Alexandra, who stepped in for winner Dani Dyer for the night club appearance, teased a glimpse of her leggy frame in the figure-hugging dress with a thigh-high split

She said: 'I am so exhausted the past week in finally catching up with me, but what an amazing week it's been. My voice has gone, my eyes are dry, it's time to go to bed.'

Meanwhile, Georgia, who rose to fame with her catchphrase 'I'm loyal, real and honest' on the hit ITV2 series, showed off her tanned and toned body in a tiny white lace dress.

The former drama student oozed confidence as she strutted into the nightclub in a pair of gold strappy sandals.

Georgia finished off the look with long brunette locks, fluttery eyelashes and a slick of brown lipstick.

Natural beauty: Georgia finished off the look with long brunette locks, fluttery eyelashes and a slick of brown lipstick

The bubbly reality star's appearance comes after she unfollowed her fellow co-star Megan Barton Hanson on social media.

The news was reported by The Sun and comes after the pair were involved in a very awkward exchange on Love Island: The Reunion on Sunday night.

Caroline Flack, 38, asked Megan, 24, if it was true she didn't like Georgia and she said she 'didn't understand her.'

Awkward: The bubbly reality star's appearance comes after she unfollowed her fellow co-star Megan Barton Hanson on social media

She said; 'It's not even like that. I'm shy and she is very extroverted, it's not that I didn't like her, I just didn't get it. I wasn't used to being around people like that.'

The camera panned to a visibly irked Georgia who was sitting in the crowd along with her boyfriend Sam Bird, 25.

She yelled out: 'It's OK boo. No need to worry darling.'

Tired: After her appearance, Alexandra revealed she felt 'ill with exhaustion' as she lay on her bed in an Instagram clip

Megan had famously called Georgia a "fake b***h" in the villa and was particularly annoyed when she jumped into the swimming pool.

The pair had joined the rest of the 2018 islanders in London on Saturday night to film the Reunion show, before heading to the cast wrap party.

After eight weeks of being filmed in the villa, the stars certainly let their hair down at the bash - necking Jagerbomb shots with host Caroline before throwing their best shapes on the dancefloor.

Alex Miller, 28, was spotted stealing a private moment with Alexandra, after previously revealing he was looking forward to meeting her at the bash.
Greg Rutherford's one-year-old son Rex has been rushed to hospital.

The Olympic long jumper's partner Susie Verrill, 30, confirmed the news as she took to her Instagram Stories to reveal they initially thought he was suffering side effects from a routine vaccination.

Accompanying a series of heart-breaking pictures of the youngster in hospital, Susie explained that his condition worsened and they were 'blue-lighted' to another hospital for further tests after doctors feared he was suffering from a bowel condition.

Poorly: Greg Rutherford 's one-year-old son Rex has been rushed to hospital

On Monday, Susie shared a picture of Rex on a stretcher in the back of an ambulance and added a worrying caption.

'We got blue-lighted to a 2nd hospital earlier - they thought Rex might have a weird (but kind of common) bowel thing going on & needed another hospital to do scans.'

Keeping her followers updated, Susie uploaded another snap on her social media platform showing the sweet tot fast asleep with a drip attached to his hand.

Health: Accompanying a series of heart-breaking pictures of the youngster in hospital, Greg's girlfriend Susie Verrill revealed they were 'blue-lighted' to another hospital for further tests after doctors feared he was suffering from a bowel condition

'Vomiting everywhere again': Susie uploaded another snap on her social media platform showing the sweet tot fast asleep with a drip attached to his hand

'Trying to fathom what's going on': Following her tough few days, Susie described the heartbreaking details of her son's health in another lengthy post

She captioned it: 'Good news - it wasn't the bowel thingy. Bad news - they don't know what it is but think it might be a bad virus.

'Hoped he was coming out the end of it but he just woke me up vomiting everywhere again so now we're waiting for the cleaners. He won't sleep in the cot so he's on the hospital sofa bed with me,' Susie added.

Cradling Rex, the brunette uploaded a video on Tuesday morning, where she offered a positive update.

'We are being allowed to go home today, we think it's just a virus but he's also anaemic.

'We are being allowed to go home today': Cradling Rex, the brunette uploaded a video on Tuesday morning, where she offered a positive update

'Post-jab sitch': Sharing a black and white snap of Rex late last week, Susie and Greg first believed he was suffering from a bad reaction to a routine Meningitis B vaccination

'It's not the cause for the vomiting but it's not going to be making him feel very good. Hopefully we can get a bit more food on board,' she concluded.

Sharing a black and white snap of Rex late last week, Susie and Greg first believed he was suffering from a bad reaction to a routine Meningitis B vaccination - however now know it is anaemia and a virus.

Greg and Susie met in 2012, exchanging messages for two months before enjoying a bowling date together - and hit it off instantly.

They welcomed first son Milo in Oct 2014 with Rex arriving in July last year.

Greg won Olympic gold in 2012 and is the British record holder, both outdoors and indoors.

Love story: Greg and Susie met in 2012, exchanging messages for two months before enjoying a bowling date together - and hit it off instantly
She has ventured away from her holiday hotspot Frinton-On-Sea to enjoy the sunny climes of Spain.

And Danniella Westbrook looked like she was having the time of her life during her idyllic beach break as she hit the sandy shores on Monday.

The former EastEnders actress, 44, showcased her eye-popping cleavage in a scanty black bikini as she playfully tried her hand at the Floss dance craze.

Playful display: Danniella Westbrook looked like she was having the time of her life during her idyllic Spanish beach break as she hit the sandy shores on Monday

Danniella threatened to spill out of her ample assets in the triangle halterneck bikini top as she waved her hands from side-to-side.

She paired the tiny top, which featured a fringed tassel design with tie-side bikini bottoms with showcased her toned stomach and hip tattoo.

The television personality, who opted to go make-up free for the beach outing, complemented her swimwear with a black hairband.

Busty: The former EastEnders actress, 44, showcased her eye-popping cleavage in a scanty black bikini as she playfully tried her hand at the Floss dance craze

Eye-popping cleavage: Danniella threatened to spill out of her ample assets in the triangle halterneck bikini top as she took a selfie

Beach babe: She paired the tiny top, which featured a fringed tassle design with tie-side bikini bottoms with showcased her toned stomach and hip tattoo

Doing the Floss: The television personality opted to go make-up free for the beach outing while she complemented her swimwear with a black hairband

Spot of yoga: Danniella's trusty headband proved in useful as she took to the warm waters, using it as a resistance band while performing a series of arm stretches

And stretch: The Loose Women star proceeded to stretch out her lithe limbs with the aid of the band

Relaxing: The star channelled her inner zen as she performed a squat in the sea

Lapping up the sun: She has ventured away from her holiday hotspot Frinton-On-Sea to enjoy the sunny climes of Spain

She can do it! The star appeared delighted with her moves, sticking out her tongue as performed the dance craze

Danniella's trusty head piece proved in useful as she took to the warm waters, using it as a resistance band while performing a series of arm stretches.

After splashing herself down and grappling with her bikini, the Loose Women star proceeded to stretch out her lithe limbs with the aid of the band.

In high spirits, the former I'm A Celebrity star couldn't resist showing off her Floss dance skills to fellow beach-goers, shimming from side-to-side as she waved her hands back and forth.

Health scare: Her trip to Spain come after her near-death experience last month

Keeping cool: The television personality grappled with her bikini after splashing herself down to cool off

Bottoms up! After her energetic display, Danniella showed off her peachy derriere as she rested in the shallows of the waters

Topping up her tan: Danniella tilted her head back as she was basked in sunlight

After her energetic display, Danniella showed off her peachy derriere as she rested in the shallows of the waters before strolling along the sandy shores to take selfies in her beach attire.

The actress seems back on the mend after her near-death experience last month.

Danniella was rushed into intensive care with blood infections leaving her convinced she was dying.

The reality star posted a snap of herself attached to a drip on Twitter, with the accompanying post thanking her son Kai, 21, and Kerry Katona, 37, for their help.

Terrifying: Danniella was rushed into intensive care with blood infections leaving her convinced she was dying

'So weak': She wrote: 'Thanks my darling @kerrykatona did a 2 &1/2 hour journey to get to me & get me to the hospital. I had pjs on was so weak'

She wrote: 'Thanks my darling @kerrykatona did a 2 &1/2 hour journey to get to me &get meto the hospital. I had pjs on was so weak.

'Was both in tears thought I was gonna die my blood was burning & no one was listening 2 me. Kez took me In & made them listen. I trust her with my life'.

She continued: 'Thank you all 4 ur kindness,I tweeted b4 people who took pictures of me being brought in sold them & false allegations were made.

Close friends: She continued: 'Was both in tears thought I was gonna die my blood was burning & no one was listening 2 me. Kez took me In & made them listen. I trust her with my life'

'I had 2 blood infections &wrong medication. I just wish @BotchedTV @UnitedSmileCtrs would take responsibility 4 this & put it right'.

In November 2016, it was reported that Danniella was suing the makers of Celebrity Botched Up Bodies, with the star claiming dental implants she had fitted on the show left her with blood poisoning.

Danniella previously enthused she was 'hugely proud' of her son Kai after he revealed he has forgiven his mum for taking cocaine while she was pregnant with him in 1996.

Hospital-bound: 'I had 2 blood infections &wrong medication. I just wish @BotchedTV @UnitedSmileCtrs would take responsibility 4 this & put it right'.

The mother wrote on Twitter: 'I am so very proud of my sons interview. Kai is a great son that I am hugely proud of.

'The only person whos opinion I trust & the most loyal person I have in my life . My son is my best friend & my world. Thanks kid 4 being my everything #MySon#Love.' (sic)

The budding rapper, confessed he's 'anti-drugs' after seeing the effects of addiction with his mum.

He told The Daily Star: 'It's shocking. It hasn't affected me. It's a miracle. I like to forgive, everyone deserves another chance.

'I'm anti-drugs. I don't touch them. I don't take sleeping tablets or even paracetamol. I don't drink alcohol. I don't do stuff that isn't natural.'
She is the busty blonde who burst onto our screens during Bachelor In Paradise.

And Keira Maguire showed off her latest makeover following the show as she debuted her fresh hairstyle on Instagram on Tuesday.

The Bachelor In Paradise star, 31, flirtatiously ran her fingers through her shoulder-length golden curls which cascaded down her frame.

Stunning style: Bachelor In Paradise star Keira Maguire flirtatiously fussed over her fresh golden curls as she treated herself to glamorous makeover on Tuesday

'Fresh blow wave,' Keira penned beneath the clip of her playing with her hair. She geo-tagged in Harpohair in Brighton.

The blonde bombshell ensured eyes weren't averted from her new hairstyle by posing in an all-black ensemble.

The reality television star transformed her look after getting her locks perfectly styled while out in Brighton, Australia.

Gorgeous: The reality television star transformed her look after getting her locks perfectly styled while out in Brighton, Australia

Recently, Keira returned to Oz after her sunny trip to Thailand with her beau Jarrod Woodgate in July.

Rumours were swirling the lovebirds had got married because they were wearing matching golden ring bands while abroad.

However, Keira quickly shut down rumours as she insisted they were 'defs (short for definitely) not married'.

All attention on her: The blonde bombshell ensured eyes weren't averted from her new hairstyle by posing in an all-black ensemble

Holidays are the best! Recently, Keira returned to Oz after her sunny trip to Thailand with her beau Jarrod Woodgate in July

Although marriage isn't on the cards just yet, Keira enthusiastically told one of her fans she wants 'babies'.

The loved-up couple fell head-over-heels for one another on the scorching Fiji shores while filming Bachelor In Paradise together.

They have already moved in together, with Keira making the move to Melbourne to enjoy life with Jarrod on his family's vineyard.


Look out Hollywood, Caitlyn Jenner may be looking to branch out and get into acting.

And it turns out the 68-year old's dream role would be as a comic-book villainess in a Marvel movie.

'I want to play the baddest-a** lady youve ever seen in your life,' she revealed in an interview in this weeks' special Variety issue on transgender Hollywood.

New career? Caitlyn Jenner revealed she is open to acting in an interview with Variety

The 68-year old said her dream role to be a comic-book villainess: I want to play the baddest-a** lady youve ever seen in your life'

Caitlyn continued, 'They got the wicked queen or the wicked lady. Just do the makeup and the outfit. And I got the deep voice.'

This wouldn't be her first foray into acting. Decades ago, before transitioning, she once auditioned for Superman but the part ended up going to the late Christopher Reeve.

'It was just too much for me, Jenner admitted. 'I would have gone down as the most macho guy in the world, and thats not me. Its not even close to being me. Thats why I want to play that bad-a** bitch. I can play that girl.'

The 1976 Olympic gold medal winning decathlete did go on to land roles in the disco-era Village People comedy Can't Stop the Music in 1980; a couple of made-for-TV movies in 1980 and 1981; and as a semi-regular cast member in the original police series CHiPs, to name a few.

Despite some mild success, the reviews for many of her roles were not always kind, which culminated with being nominated for the 1980 Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Actor.

Making a statement: Caitlyn's interview is part of Variety's special issue on transgender Hollywood which features Chaz Bono, Laverne Cox and Alexandra Billings on the cover

Revelation: Caitlyn revealed she auditioned for Superman in the 1970's, a role that went to the late Christopher Reeve

Back in the day: The 1976 Olympic champion got in acting in the late 1970's and early 80's

Whether or not she realizes her dream of being in a Marvel movie, Caitlyn is currently working on a project that includes an all-transgender cast and crew, but she wouldn't elaborate on the specifics: 'You have to wait and see.'

Something else that could be on the horizon: another TV reality series - possibly one where she parachutes into parts of the world as a transgender rights explorer. But don't expect to see her on an episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians anytime soon.

'At this point, no,' she said. 'But you never know.'

The interview took a more serious tone when Caitlyn revealed that she has been secretly meeting with members of congress in an effort to fight for transgender rights.

The activist had high hopes about the new Trump administration, given the new president promised to make LGBTQ rights a part of his platforms. But that soured in the months after he took office when he rolled back protections for trans-kids in schools and vowed to ban trans-people from the military.

'I honestly dont know what happened when he got in there. It was extraordinarily disappointing, she said.

The special Variety issue on transgender Hollywood is out now.
She was left badly shaken after a horrific car crash last month, which saw her hit a wall at 40mph while driving a Formula 2 stock car.

And Roxanne Pallett proved she had made a remarkable recovery when she attended the FriendsFest event in Manchester on Tuesday night, beaming with joy as she made a return to the limelight.

The 36-year-old star - who had ditched her wrist supports - flashed a big grin as she walked the red carpet at Heaton Park with her boyfriend Lee Walton.

Bouncing back: Roxanne Pallett proved she had made a remarkable recovery when she attended the FriendsFest event in Manchester on Tuesday night, beaming with joy as she made a return to the limelight

Roxanne couldn't resist packing on the PDA with her man Lee, putting on an romantic display.

She showed off her flat stomach and tiny waist in a rock chic crop top and skinny jeans.

The former soap star accessorised with beige cowboy boots and a coordinating trilby hat.

The ex-Emmerdale actress appeared in great spirits at the fun-filled event.

Sealed with a kiss: Roxanne couldn't resist packing on the PDA with her man Lee, putting on an romantic display

Top of the crops: Roxanne showed off her flat stomach and tiny waist in a rock chic crop top and skinny jeans

Hats off! The ex-Emmerdale actress appeared in great spirits at the fun-filled event

Roxanne recently appeared on Good Morning Britain on Monday to discuss the ordeal, which saw firefighters cut her from the wreckage of the car.

The star was lucky to escape with two badly sprained wrists, bruising and concussion - and made the shocking confession she has since been trolled for not suffering worse injuries.

The incident occurred during a race against Ben Fry, her Minster FM breakfast show co-host, at Hunmanby Raceway in York.

Terrifying ordeal: Roxanne made an appearance on Good Morning Britain last month discuss her horrific car crash

Accident: The former Emmerdale actress was lucky to escape with two badly sprained wrists, bruising and concussion

She recalled the dramatic moment she woke up in the midst of the wreckage and realised she couldn't feel her legs or her head.

Roxanne said: 'I had this numbed, blocked up feeling in my head, like there was water in my head, like my brain had rattled. I couldnt really hear much, I couldnt feel much either.

'[My co-host] Ben was relaying messages from [my boyfriend] Lee to try and keep me awake because I just wanted to go to sleep.

'The minute I woke up I knew it wasnt good. I think thats why they airlifted me because I couldnt feel my legs and my neck and my head. Ive never felt pain like it.'

Roxanne was sporting two wrist supports for her TV interview, and the shaken star confessed she was still taking a lot of pain medication.

'Its something you never expect to happen to you. Its just a bit of a blur still to be honest. Im so dosed up on painkillers, Im almost grateful to feel this numb. Im really lucky, Ive been lucky', she declared.

Impact: The star is still recovering after crashing into a concrete wall at Hunmanby Raceway

Discussing the moments leading up to the crash, Roxanne said: 'I dont even go to the gym  Im not really an activity girl. The beauty of our show is we get out and about round North Yorkshire, we try new things, we visit local businesses.

'Last Wednesday, we were visiting a racing track, it was meant to be a fun afternoon, a promotional video. For me, it ended bad.'

Roxanne explained: 'I just remember being excited, and it was new, and then realising very fast that the car was more powerful than me and when I was revving to drive, I didnt expect it to be so quick. I just lost control.

'I couldnt brake and I couldnt turn it round the corner. I could just see that I was about to hit and then that was when I lost I just blacked out.

'Whenever youre filming, you just trust the surroundings, you trust that everythings going to go to plan.'

She said: 'i have to say this because Ive had some really negative comments on social media thats been really upsetting from the stock car racing community almost lacking compassion'

Injuries: She was sporting two wrist supports for her TV interview, and the shaken star confessed she was still taking a lot of pain medication

She was airlifted to hospital and taken home 24 hours later by her doting boyfriend, Lee Walton.

Roxanne made the startling admission she has since been trolled by stock car racing fans because she had only suffered minor injuries, and can't believe people could be so lacking in compassion.

She explained: 'The team at the race track, they were phenomenal, I had all the right gear on, I had the protective clothing on, the helmet. The guys were wonderful and supportive. I respect the sport completely.

'And I have to say this because Ive had some really negative comments on social media thats been really upsetting from the stock car racing community almost lacking compassion.

'They were almost disappointed that Id been airlifted and only come out of it with some internal bruising and sprained wrist.'

Supportive: She was airlifted to hospital and taken home 24 hours later by her doting boyfriend, Lee Walton

The radio host said: 'Whenever youre filming, you just trust the surroundings, you trust that everythings going to go to plan'

Roxanne said: 'Ive got to also point out that sometimes injuries can be invisible. My head doesnt feel right, I can barely stretch my ribs and back are so sore.

'Theres people everyday walking around with injuries and disabilities that are invisible to the eye and people need to remember that.'

Perhaps surprisingly, Roxanne has wasted no time getting back behind the wheel, saying she wanted to face her fears.

Of her decision to drive again, she said: 'I had to. A normal car. Ive learnt from previous experiences, if you dont get back out there after something goes wrong its even harder the longer you leave it.

'So yesterday we just found a quiet spot and I got behind the wheel and I just took it easy.

'I didnt want to be scared to drive and I didnt want to be scared of anything really. Its going to take time like any bad incident just to erase from your memory.'

Roxanne had to remain in the wreckage for two hours as firefighters worked to cut her free, before being airlifted 41 miles to Hull Royal Infirmary, The Sun reported at the time.

She was said to have suffered severe bruising and two sprained wrists and is awaiting the results of a CT scan to check for further damage.

A source told The Sun Online: 'She tried to overtake Ben on a bend and was travelling too fast and smashed into the concrete wall on the track.

Scary: The actress crashed during a stock car race against Ben Fry, her Minster FM breakfast show co-host, at Hunmanby Raceway in York (pictured in 2016)

'She lost consciousness for about 30 seconds on impact. Fortunately she was wearing a helmet and race gear.'

Tony Walker, the Station Manager for the Scarborough district of the Fire and Rescue team live tweeted the incident, posting at 1.03pm on Wednesday: 'Scarborough and filey crews currently dealing with an incident at Hunmanby grass track.

'Air ambulance in attendance. Further details to follow.' Half an hour later, he posted: 'Update on hunmanby incident. 1 female cut free from a stockcar...

'Injuries not believed serious. Great joint effort with fire, police, ambulance and air ambulance. @NorthYorksFire @YorksCoastRadio'.

On the morning of the crash, Roxanne was seen in tears as she wandered around York city center, with onlookers describing the star as looking like she was having an emotional meltdown.

Intense: Roxanne had to remain in the wreckage for two hours as firefighters worked to cut her free, before being airlifted 41 miles to Hull Royal Infirmary, The Sun reported last week

However, the soap star was putting her acting skills to good use in filming a special feature for her radio show.

Roxanne was seeing how long it would take locals to step in and ask if she was okay as part of the kindness experiment to find Yorkshire's 'greatest place'.

Roxanne was taking part in the car race as a segment for her Minster FM breakfast show, after revealing she quit acting after feeling 'unappreciated' in order to become a radio DJ.

The actress vented her frustrations at the industry, as she recalled casting experiences where she was told 'to lose weight and get Botox'.

'I have also been told to lose weight, get Botox and change my accent to get a casting,' she told the Daily Star On Sunday. 'I wasn't prepared to do that. I don't feel appreciated as an actress so I am quitting the industry.'
Speaking at the reception, Minister Lam emphasised that, over the past few years, the cooperation between Vietnam and Thailand in general, and between the Ministry of Public Security and the NSC in particular, has been increasingly consolidated and developed.

He also emphasised the importance of cooperation in responding to non-traditional security challenges, such as climate change, energy security, food security, water security, natural disasters, and epidemics.

Wanlop Rugsanaoh, head of the Thai JWG, and representatives from Thailands ministries and sectors concerned, visited Vietnam from August 5-8 in order to attend the 10th meeting of the JWG.

He expressed his thanks to the Vietnamese side for their warm hospitality and thorough preparations for the meeting.

At the meeting, the two sides also discussed specific measures to improve the efficiency of the JWG on politics and security.
She the media mogul owner and broadcaster of her channel OWN.

And Oprah Winfrey enjoyed a well-deserved break from her busy career as she holidayed in Portofino, Italy alongside pals on Tuesday.

Despite enjoying her time away, the 64-year-old couldn't help but be mobbed by adoring fans as she soaked up the seaside town and happily took a selfie with an excited viewer.

Holiday: Oprah Winfrey enjoyed a well-deserved break from her busy career as she holidayed in Portofino, Italy alongside pals on Tuesday. She's seen here with David Geffen, whose yacht Rising Sun she's been staying on

As one of the most icon faces in broadcasting, the acclaimed presenter took the request in her stride while many lined up for a moment and photo.

Continuing on with her day, Oprah looked effortlessly chic in an oversized blue and white striped shirt which she teamed with a pair of white bootleg trousers.

The TV star, who has been cruising off Italy on the Rising Sun yacht with billionaire pal David Geffen, continued her stylish display as she walked around the Italian town in a pair of white slip-ons and carried her complementing oversized tote for the occasion.

She accessorised her ensemble with a pair of statement drop-earrings, kooky shades and worked her raven-coloured locks into a simple ponytail.

Snap happy: Despite enjoying her time away, the 64-year-old couldn't help but be mobbed by adoring fans as she soaked up the seaside town and happily took a selfie with an excited viewer

Getting chic done: Continuing on with her day, Oprah looked effortlessly chic in an oversized blue and white striped shirt which she teamed with a pair of white bootleg trousers. She was also accompanied by Lloyd Blankfein, who is about to end his tenure as the CEO of Goldman Sachs

Style savvy: The TV star continued her stylish display as she walked around the Italian town in a pair of white slip-ons and carried her complementing oversized tote for the occasion

All in the details: She accessorised her ensemble with a pair of kooky shades

All smiles: She beamed as she joined her pals for lunch

Stopping for a bite to eat, Oprah looked relaxed as she enjoyed a beverage with her party, which also included Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein, in the quaint town.

Her appearance in Europe comes after she divulged that she loves making a home-cooked meal for her beau Stedman Graham, 67.

During an Ask a Staffer Q&A on O The Oprah Magazine's Twitter, the broadcaster revealed what makes her perfect date night with longtime partner, who she first began dating in 1986.

Mane attraction: She worked her raven-coloured locks into a simple ponytail

Bite to eat: Stopping for a bite to eat, Oprah looked relaxed as she enjoyed a beverage with her party in the quaint town

Pop: She fixed her collar as she sat down for lunch

Accessories: Oprah worked a pair of statement drop-earrings

Beaming: The TV star shared a laugh while waiting for her food to arrive

Absent: Her appearance in Europe comes after she divulged that she loves making a home-cooked meal for her beau Stedman Graham, 67, who was noticeably absent from the trip

David Geffen shared this photo over the weekend from the Rising Sun, showing Oprah, Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson, Julianna Margulies and others on his megayacht

'Perfect date night: me cooking and then it's on,' she said in the video clip shared on social media. 'Well, I am a really good cook and the wonderful thing about Stedman is in all the years that I've been cooking for him, no matter what it is.

'Even if it's a piece of toast like the other day I made an English muffin and he's like, "Where did you get this English muffin?" and I'm like, "It's an English muffin".'

She continued: 'He is delighted with anything that I make, so my favorite date night is to make him black-eyed peas and cornbread as a surprise for dinner and then honey, hush..... That's all you need!'

Sharing: During an Ask a Staffer Q&A on O The Oprah Magazine's Twitter, the broadcaster revealed what makes her perfect date night with longtime partner, who she first began dating in 1986

Date night: 'Perfect date night: me cooking and then it's on,' she said in the video clip shared on social media

Cooking up a storm: She added: 'Well, I am a really good cook and the wonderful thing about Stedman is in all the years that I've been cooking for him, no matter what it is'

Candid: She added: 'Even if it's a piece of toast like the other day I made an English muffin and he's like, "Where did you get this English muffin?" and I'm like, "It's an English muffin"'

'All you need': She continued: 'He is delighted with anything that I make, so my favorite date night is to make him black-eyed peas and cornbread as a surprise for dinner and then honey, hush..... That's all you need!'

The couple are based at a massive $90 million estate that Oprah owns in Montecito, near Santa Barbara, California, but there are also several other luxury residences in her property portfolio.

It's believed she owns a home on the ultra-exclusive Fisher Island, just south of Miami, Florida, as well as an estate in Hawaii.

And according to AJC.com this week, the mogul recently dropped $8.275 million on a 43-acre compound on Orcas Island, one of the four largest islands in the San Juan archipelago just off Seattle.

Meanwhile, Oprah has been enjoying an idyllic holiday alongside David Geffen and a host of celebrities as they attended the sixth annual Google Camp.

Retail therapy: Oprah indulged in a spot of retail therapy following her lunch

Spending storm: She held onto a chic white long shirt dress in the chic boutique

Hats on! She laughed as she tried on a statement white hat

Fix up: She fixed her hair as she posed infront of the store's mirror

Work it: Oprah tried on her hat one more time before purchasing it

The mogul was joined by fellow billionaires Barry Diller, George Lucas and Google founders Sergey brin and Larry Page over the weekend at the Vedura resort in Sicily.

Google Camp guests are encouraged to bring their families, just like at the Allen & Company conference in Idaho that runs a few weeks prior, and there is no shortage of activities.

The resort boasts two 18-hole golf courses, a tennis academy and one of the largest spa complexes in all of Europe on its over one mile of private coastline.

There are a number of suites and private rooms as well as three villas for guests to stay after arriving by sea or air in a helicopter.

Stepping out: Oprah held onto her purchases from 100% Capri

Delight: She looked thrilled with her chic linen bag while walking along the cobbled streets

Those villas look out on to individual pools as well as the property's massive infinity pool and stunning private beach, filled with imported white sand, a jetty and even a small carpet to take pampered stars into the crystal blue ocean waters.

There was also a dock for all the yachts expected to descend upon the resort, with Geffen mooring his outside the resort.

Luxury mega yacht the Azteca, which last year hosted Elton John while he was at the conference, has already been spotted moored on the private beach.

Heading off: She made her way to her waiting speed boat

Chit chat: Oprah was joined by her pals while they made their way home

All on board: She carefully stepped onto the sleek boat

The $80 million yacht had its slide out and seemed ready for action ahead of the arrival of guests, who in the past have included Prince Harry, Emma Watson and steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal.

It is not clear is any of those guests will be back this year, but once source believes the arrival of the Azteca could be a sign.

Elton was on the yacht with the detached slide last year, so if thats been spotted then maybe hes coming back to see us again,' the source told DailyMail.com. Google Camp is a real Whos Who of the biggest names in showbusiness.'

Safety: The broadcaster was flanked by three deckhands while getting onboard
He is an acclaimed actor known for roles in Schindlers List, the Taken franchise and Love Actually.

And Liam Neeson looked focused as he stepped out on the set of his new romantic drama Normal People in Jordanstown, County Antrim, Northern Ireland on Tuesday.

The talented actor, 66, cut a handsome figure as he bundled up ahead of filming, donning a navy and silver quilted jacket paired with slate grey joggers.

Looking good: Liam Neeson looked focused as he stepped out on the set of his new romantic drama Normal People in Jordanstown, County Antrim, Northern Ireland on Tuesday

He slipped on a pair of black trainers and completed his look with a powder grey woolen hat.

Deep in thought as he strolled along the seaside, the Academy Award nominee was ever the professional as he prepared to film.

Liam stars alongside Lesley Manville in the new drama, which is described as 'a story of love, survival and the epic questions life throws at each and every one of us.'

Neeson and Manville star as Tom and Joan, a married couple with a tender and easy relationship.

Acclaimed: The talented actor, 66, cut a handsome figure as he bundled up ahead of filming, donning a navy and silver quilted jacket paired with slate grey joggers

When Joan is diagnosed with breast cancer, the pair's relationship is subjected to scrutiny as the couple face up to the challenges in the future.

Although winning widespread acclaim for his role in the Taken franchise, in September 2017, Liam said he is done with thrillers.

In an interview, Neeson said that he plans to stop even though it's hard to turn down the lucrative offers he gets thanks to his box-office success in the three 'Taken' films, as well as other thrillers. Neeson believes he's simply getting too old to be an action hero.

'The thrillers, that was all a pure accident,' said Neeson. 'They're still throwing serious money at me to do that stuff. I'm like, 'Guy's I'm sixty-f---ing-five.' Audiences are eventually going to go, 'Come on.''

Handsome: He slipped on a pair of black trainers and completed his look with a powder grey woolen hat

Scenic: Deep in thought as he strolled along the seaside, the Academy Award nominee was ever the professional as he prepared to film

Neeson still has two upcoming revenge thrillers he's already shot: 'Hard Powder,' in which he plays a snowplow driver who faces off with drug dealers, and 'The Commuter,' with director Jaume Collet-Serra, who also directed Neeson in 'Unknown,' ''Non-Stop' and 'Run All Night.'

But, Neeson said, those will be his last.

'I've shot one that's going to come out in January sometime. There might be another. That's it,' said Neeson. 'But not 'Taken,' none of that franchise stuff.'

Neeson has also lined up to co-star in 'Widows,' by 'Twelve Years a Slave' director Steve McQueen. In December, he starred in Martin Scorsese's spiritual epic 'Silence.'
One is a Hollywood heartthrob famed for performing his own daredevil stunts.

The other is definitely more Top Bun than Top Gun, having to cope with nothing more dangerous than innuendo about soggy bottoms.

Yet Great British Bake Off presenter Sandi Toksvig claims she is often mistaken for Tom Cruise.

Like the 56-year-old actor, the Danish-born comedienne, 60, has short hair, a toothy grin, crinkly eyes and prominent cheeks.

And she admits she is flattered to be likened to the Mission Impossible star.

Sandi Toksvig, 60, has said she is often mistaken for Hollywood heartthrob Tom Cruise, 56, because they both have short hair and prominent cheeks'

Danish-born comedienne Sandi is 5ft tall, making her 7inch smaller than the Mission Impossible. Pictured are the two in similar navy blue jackets

Miss Toksvig, who is only 5ft  some seven inches shorter than Cruise  told the Daily Star: 'It is so funny. It must be our flowing locks that get us mistaken.' The QI host added: 'It's very flattering for me, but probably not for Tom.'

The resemblance, which seems to include the colours of clothes they favour, has not gone unnoticed.

One fan tweeted images of them side by side, writing: 'I have to say, I'd much rather have seen Sandi Toksvig star in Top Gun, Mission Impossible and, well, all other Tom Cruise films.'

Another wrote: 'Tom Cruise is slowly turning into Sandi Toksvig.'

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson has also picked up on the similarities, once tweeting: 'Tom Cruise's face. I don't know what he's doing to it, but he's beginning to look like a late-90s era Sandi Toksvig.'

Many have said the two share the same cheeky grin. Sandi says she is flattered people see a resemblance between her and Tom Cruise

The pairs rosy cheeks have also drawn comparison. Sandi said: 'It is so funny. It must be our flowing locks that get us mistaken'

Top Bun and Top Gun: Even their choices in clothing seem to be similar with them both sporting grey jackets and dark coloured trousers
Celebrity Big Brother hasnt even begun yet and theres already drama in the house.

According to The Sun Online, Coronation Street star Ryan Thomas threatened to pull out of the show amid concerns about Dan Osborne being cast. The actor is currently dating Lucy Mecklenburgh, who used to date Dan.

Dan is now married to Jacqueline Jossa.

Ryan Thomas played Jason Grimshaw on Coronation Street until 2016 (pictured here on the show with his on-screen mother Eileen, played by Sue Cleaver)

Rumors are swirling about which celebrities will be appearing on the upcoming season of Celebrity Big Brother on Channel 5

The Suns sources said: He was playing hardball and saying it was either Dan or him, but Celebrity Big Brother bosses stood firm and he eventually backed down. Now theyre both doing it.

Insiders close to Ryan deny that hes uncomfortable with Dan appearing on Celebrity Big Brother, calling them ludicrous.

They told OK! Magazine: Its ludicrous. Ryan hasnt even met Dan, and if they were to enter the house together Ryan would be fine with it.

Who is going in Celebrity Big Brother 2018?

Channel 5 hasnt yet confirmed the cast of Celebrity Big Brother. There is tons of speculation about who will appear, however.

Gabby Allen, a former Love Island star, is rumored to be appearing on this season of Celebrity Big Brother. The show often picks former Love Island stars for the show.

TV presenter John Leslie, who was accused of assaulting a bride-to-be at a bachelorette party at an Edinburgh nightclub in June, is another rumored fixture in the Celebrity Big Brother cast.

Kirstie Alley, Stormy Daniels, Ryan Thomas, Chloe Ayling, Charlotte Dawson, Paul Cattermole, Sinitta, Bobby Norris, Georgia May Foote, Kieran Hayler, Chuckle Brothers, Jonathan Van Ness, and Meghan Markles half-sister Samantha Grant are also said to have signed on.

OK! Magazine reported that Gabby, Samantha and Stormy have been confirmed along with Human Ken Doll, Rodrigo Alves

Youll have to tune in to the show to find out for sure whos appearing.When is Celebrity Big Brother on?

Celebrity Big Brother kicks off on Friday, August 17.

Celebrity Big Brother theme

The theme of Celebrity Big Brother 2018 is eye of the storm.
Selma Blair made a splash in Miami on Tuesday.

The actress showcased her slender physique in a tiny, butterfly print bikini as she relaxed by the pool with a male pal.

Selma put her fabulously toned torso on display as she soaked up the sun.

Making a splash! Selma Blair put her fabulously toned torso on display as she soaked up the sun in Miami on Tuesday

Wading through the pool and enjoying a chat with her friend, the actress was the picture of relaxation as she enjoyed some well-deserved R&R.

The star oozed summer glam with her golden choker necklace and bracelets.

Hair slicked back, the star smiled from ear to ear as she clutched her towel while drying herself off after a refreshing dip in the pool.

Selma, meanwhile, recently quit Twitter after she defended Guardians Of The Galaxy director James Gunn following his firing from Disney.

Double the fun: The star splashed around the pool with a male pal

Bikini body: Blair looked incredible as she caught some rays in her skimpy two piece

Having a chat: Blair chatted with her pal while wading through the cool pool

The actress is a longtime friend of James, who was fired by Disney last month for decade-old tweets in which he joked about pedophilia and porn.

Selma took to the social media network tweeting: 'So long. You can find me on Instagram. #Istandwithjamesgunn,' before deleting her profile completely.

The actress had earlier defended Gunn on Twitter, and shared a link to a petition that would see him reinstated with Disney.

Her support of the filmmaker, however, provoked a backlash with some accusing her of trivializing child abuse and others calling her out on social media.

The 51-year-old director apologized for his past behavior telling fans he was now 'very different than I was a few years ago'.
He's known for his role as Jackson 'Jax' Teller in the drama series Sons of Anarchy.

And on Sunday, Charlie Hunnam was pictured on the set of Australian crime film, The True History of the Kelly Gang.

The 38-year-old covered up his muscular frame in casual attire while filming in the rural Victorian town of Wangaratta, Australia.

A different kind of outlaw! Sons of Anarchy's Charlie Hunnam, 38, covered up his muscular frame in casual attire, on the set of The True History of the Kelly Gang in Australia on Sunday

Charlie layered up in a blue T-shirt, navy zip-up sweater and bomber jacket, which he teamed with navy slim-fit trousers.

The English actor added a grey newsboy cap and navy New Balance sneakers.

Placing his hands in his pockets, Charlie went for a stroll in the countryside.

The King Arthur star has commenced filming the Australian crime drama, based on the life of the notorious bushranger and outlaw Ned Kelly.

Casual: Charlie layered up in a blue T-shirt, navy zip-up sweater and bomber jacket, which he teamed with navy slim-fit trousers, a newsboy cap and navy New Balance sneakers

The lead role is to be portrayed by London-born George MacKay, and his character's mentor Harry Power, will see Australian Russell Crowe back on the screen.

George's appointment as the lead marks the second time a British star has signed on to play Australian Ned Kelly, with the Rolling Stones' Mick Jagger having portrayed him in the 1970 production.

The film, directed by Justin Kurzel, and based on the book by Peter Carey, will also star Essie Davis, Nicholas Hoult, Sean Keenan, Earl Cave and Harry Greenwood.

New role: The King Arthur star has commenced filming the Australian crime drama, The True History of the Kelly Gang, based on the life of the notorious bushranger and outlaw, Ned Kelly

Career aside, Charlie's love life is also going from strength to strength, having dated jewellery designer Morgana McNelis since 2005.

In an interview with ET in May 2017, Charlie revealed the secret to keeping the romance alive.

'I subscribe to, like, not necessarily giving a big Christmas present, a big birthday present, or doing any giant outlandish romantic gestures. I try to keep it consistent. Like, small amount of romance all the time. That's my strategy,' he said.

Charlie added: 'Like, cooking, like going out, buying her favourite groceries and cooking the meal that my lady likes. I'm an excellent cook.'
As the only son of X Factor supremo Simon Cowell, he is already accustomed to a lavish lifestyle.

And it has been claimed that young Eric Cowell has found a suitably A-list way to relax amid reports he has become the world's youngest patron of the exclusive private member's club, Soho House.

The Mirror reports music guru Simon, 58, splashed out a whopping 925 to give his beloved son access to the club, which counts Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and Kate Moss among its celebrity visitors.

A-list: It has been claimed that young Eric Cowell has found a suitably A-list way to relax amid reports he has become the world's youngest patron of the exclusive private member's club, Soho House

Lavish: The Mirror reports music guru Simon, 58, splashed out a whopping 925 to give his beloved son access to the club, which counts Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and Kate Moss among its celebrity visitors

Soho House clubs are based all over the world, meaning the mini mogul can take in the lavish facilities in locations including Miami, Istanbul and of course, London.

Some of the clubs include rooftop pools with Oxfordshire's Soho Farmhouse boasting an adventure playground.

A source told the website the gift from Simon to his son, who he shares with girlfriend Lauren Silverman, was 'practical' as the youngster cannot simply visit a local leisure centre.

They said: 'Eric wanted to go swimming during the heatwave but Simon was filming and Lauren wasn't around, so they got him a membership so the nanny could take him,' they said. 'It is close and convenient, so made sense.'

Family first: Soho House clubs are based all over the world, meaning the mini mogul can take in the lavish facilities in locations including Miami, Istanbul and of course, London

MailOnline has contacted representatives for Simon Cowell and Soho House for comment.

This comes after Simon revealed to The Sun that he'd love his son to become a Britain's Got Talent judge and even take over his franchise in the future.

Talking to the publication, he said: 'I want to spend more time with him. I'm lucky because he likes the shows, so he comes down to them with me. I'm sort of training him up.'

While talking about his son taking over one day, he added: 'Oh, a million per cent. I think about that all the time. I would love him to take over. He's really confident.

'When he comes down here he knows what everybody does. He likes being in the gallery. That will be my dream.'
The return of Donald Campbell's Bluebird K7 hydroplane to the water last week has revived turbulent undercurrents among his family.

Missing from the cheering crowds on the shores of Loch Fad on the Isle of Bute  where the boat was lowered into the water for the first time since Campbell's fatal crash in 1967  was Campbell's nephew, Don Wales, himself a world speed record holder in a steam car.

'I have very strong feelings about what has gone on, and what happened last week has not changed them,' the photographer tells me.

Don Wales, a world speed record holder in a steam car, is the grandson of Sir Malcolm Campbell

Don, 57, is the grandson of Sir Malcolm Campbell, the colourful land-speed king who lit up the Thirties setting speed records on land and water.

Malcolm's son Donald, immortalised by Anthony Hopkins in the 1988 movie Across The Lake, carried on the family tradition.

He was killed 51 years ago trying to break the water-speed record on Coniston Water and succeeded  but with tragic consequences. His boat hit 300mph then flipped, nose-diving into the water.

Above: Donald Campbell practices in the Lake District, in 1967

While praising the feat of restorers who have put his uncle's boat, Bluebird, back together, Wales does not approve of it returning to the water. Just yesterday, while it was performing a speed test of 100mph, he told me: 'By all means rev up the engines, but on land not on the water.

'The family remains divided, but I think the boat should have been left at the bottom of Lake Coniston with my uncle, who always said: 'The skipper and craft should stay together.' '

Donald's daughter Gina, who arrived at Loch Fad to see Bluebird being launched, said: 'I can't help but fill up. She's beautiful. Some people thought it best to leave the wreckage where it lay undisturbed, but I always knew this was the right thing to do. It's what my father would've wanted.'

Donald Campbell died while trying to break his own record of 276mph

Wales disagrees. 'To put someone else in the cockpit is disrespectful,' he said, adding Campbell's widow Tonia wanted the boat left as a wreck.

'That boat should have gone to the Coniston museum straight away. Why can't Bluebird be displayed in Coniston where my uncle is buried and where people can pay their respects?'

The wreckage was lifted from the lake in 2001, along with the body of Campbell, who died aged 45 trying to break his own record of 276mph.

Princess Michael of Kent is to appear at the Cliveden Literary Festival for a session titled: 'Queens: how to rule and be remembered.'

The royal, 73, who is married to HM's cousin, has, until now, been careful not to pass public comment on the current Elizabethan reign. Relations have not always been smooth.

The Queen archly suggested the Princess was 'too grand' for the Windsors after the daughter of an SS officer boasted that she had 'more royal blood in her veins than any person to marry into the Royal Family since Prince Philip'.
Bachelor In Paradise star Sam Cochrane recently made extraordinary claims his ex-fiancee Tara Pavlovic physically and verbally abused him during their relationship - an accusation she later confirmed as being true, but 'out of character'.

And fellow reality TV star Elora Murger has weighed in on the bitter split, claiming that Sam 'made the right decision for his heart'.

Speaking to Daily Mail Australia at the Planar Restaurant launch in Sydney on Tuesday, Elora said: 'I'm really good friends with Sam  we're just not friends with Tara.'

'He made the right decision': Elora Murger (above) has claimed Sam Cochrane is doing 'really good' since ending his engagement to Tara Pavlovic amid 'physical and verbal abuse claims'

It's over! Tara Pavlovic and Sam Cochrane (pictured in June) got engaged on Bachelor in Paradise. Following their split, they have been embroiled in a bitter war or words including allegations of physical and verbal abuse

'I think Sam and Tara had the pressure to try and make it work for a little bit and he made the right decision for his heart. He wasn't happy,' she explained.

'I went through a similar experience with an ex recently and it's just really s**t when a person is just not for you. It's hard to get out of, and once you're out of it, it does have to be a clean cut.'

While she emphasised she wasn't in contact with Tara, Elora insisted that Sam was 'doing really good' since the split, saying: 'He's in Bali right now and it looks like he's having a lot of fun.'

'I'm really good friends with Sam - were just not friends with Tara': Elora firmly stated she is not in contact with Tara anymore. Pictured: The Bachelor in Paradise cast

'Hes in Bali right now and it looks like hes having a lot of fun': Elora (pictured) happily revealed that Sam is 'doing really good' since his split with Tara

Meanwhile, former lovebirds Sam and Tara are locked in a social media stoush after he made extraordinary claims she physically and verbally abused him.

Sam, 34, accused Tara of violent behaviour before their June split in a bombshell interview with Woman's Day on Monday, prompting the Queensland nanny, 28, to respond by branding him 'emotionally abusive'.

Tara later admitted that she did hit her then-fiance at their engagement party, but alleged he 'pushed her' to do it and insisted her actions were 'out of character'.

It's war! Sam (left) and Tara (right) are currently locked in a bitter stoush on social media after he made extraordinary claims she physically and verbally abused him

In the middle of a heated argument, Tara claimed she 'hit [Sam] and cried and told him to get out of my hotel'.

'This was so out of character for me, which is why I left when he he begged me back for weeks,' she explained in an Instagram comment.

In another social media post responding to the abuse claims, Tara alleged that Sam was 'emotionally abusive' during their six-month relationship.

He said, she said: Sam, 34, accused Tara of violent behaviour before their June split in a bombshell interview with Woman's Day on Monday, prompting the nanny, 28, to respond by alleging he was 'emotionally abusive'. Pictured: Tara at a fashion show in Sydney on May 31

'I am getting so many messages from women who have been through the same thing I recently went through,' she wrote.

'Thank you everyone for sharing your experiences with me and sending your love. I feel lucky that I was in a similar relationship when I was younger.

'So, after six months I was able to recognise the signs and walk away without guilt when he cried begging me back.

'For any girls struggling in an emotionally abusive relationship, there is an article I read about dating a narcissist that really helped me understand what was going on. I've done a swipe-up link for anyone who wants to read it. You're not crazy.'

The way they were: Sam got engaged to Tara within four weeks of meeting her

Hitting back: After Sam's interview with Woman's Day hit newsstands, Tara responded by alleging that her ex-fiance was 'emotionally abusive' during their six-month relationship

Tara had previously shared an Instagram post about dating a 'narcissist', but did not mention Sam by name.

'There are terrible people in this world. I've learned that over the past six months,' she wrote. 'I reached a low I never knew I could reach and I turned into a person I have never been before. I am a good person and that's all that matters,' she wrote.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Tara Pavlovic for comment.

Cryptic: Tara (pictured with a friend) had previously shared an Instagram post about dating a 'narcissist', but did not mention Sam by name

Last week, Tara told Daily Mail Australia that she felt 'relieved' following the couple's split and alleged that her relationship with Sam was 'toxic'.

'Sam left me after a fight thinking I would beg for him back - he always threatened to leave and played games,' she alleged.

'But this time I told him to never speak to me again and then he begged for me back for weeks.'

She added: 'The relationship was just the most toxic thing. I feel the biggest sense of relief now that it's all over. I finally feel like I'm myself again.'

Whirlwind romance: The Bachelor In Paradise finale was filmed in Fiji last year and aired in late April

Sam's allegations come weeks after his mother, Rosie Wynter, took a thinly-veiled swipe at Tara and implied there was more to the story surrounding their split.

'You cannot imagine the story behind it and I opened my heart and home. I can't say anymore... please understand. There is so much to it,' she claimed on Instagram.

Sam and Tara confirmed their split via Instagram in June.

They got engaged during the Bachelor in Paradise finale, which was filmed in Fiji last year and aired in late April.

Sam proposed with a GS Diamonds ring believed to be worth $11,000. Following their break-up, he announced plans to auction it off for charity.
She had to cancel her Bruno Mars tour after giving birth on July 11.

But Cardi B is ready to return to the stage as it was announced on Tuesday she will be headlining the Global Citizen Festival with Janet Jackson and The Weeknd.

The concert will take place on September 29 in New York City - more than two months after the rapper, 25, welcomed daughter Kulture with husband Offset.

Returning: Cardi B, 25, is ready to return to the stage as it was announced on Tuesday she will be headlining Global Citizen Festival with Janet Jackson and The Weeknd; (pictured in June)

The 2018 free-ticketed event will return to Central Park and includes Shawn Mendes and Janelle Monae in the lineup.

Global Citizens CEO, Hugh Evans, said in a statement: 'In 2018, it is more important than ever for Global Citizens here in the United States and around the world to demand their voices be heard - through activism and at the polls - so that we can continue progress towards a world free from needless suffering and want.

'We are truly grateful to have such incredible artists, hosts and partners standing with us in a moment of history so pivotal in our fight to achieve the global goals and end extreme poverty,' he explained.

This is the seventh year Global Citizen will host its annual concert by bringing together music fans and advocating the necessary change to make the world a better place by demanding their voices be heard.

Star-studded: The 2018 free-ticketed event will return to Central Park and includes Shawn Mendes and Janelle Monae in the lineup; (The Weeknd pictured Friday)

This year Global Citizen's iconic 'Mandela 100' campaign, in memory of the late anti-apartheid revolutionary Nelson Mandela, will coincide with the annual UN General Assembly meetings and to celebrate the political leaders life and legacy in his centenary year.

Another show will take place on December 2, in Johannesburg, South Africa, headlined by 'On The Run II' superstars Jay-Z and Beyonce, Coldplay and Pharrell.

Meanwhile, Cardi B pulled out of the Bruno Mars tour on July 26, writing on Instagram that she needed more time to recover 'mentally and physically' from giving birth.

More shows: Another show will take place in December in South Africa, headlined by 'On The Run II' superstars Jay-Z and Beyonce, Coldplay and Pharrell; (Janet Jackson pictured July)

The first date of that tour was less than two months after Cardi B and husband Offset of Migos welcomed their daughter, Kulture, whose birth was announced on July 11.

'I underestimated this whole mommy thing,' wrote the hit rapper, whose I Like It topped the Billboard Hot 100.

'I hope you guys understand. This have been such a hard decision. I want to thank @brunomars for understanding.'


Speaking at a ceremony to mark 45 years of Vietnam-Malaysia diplomatic relations on August 7, Vice Chairman of the municipal Peoples Committee, Le Thanh Liem, noted that Vietnam and Malaysia share many cultural similarities and their people began to exchange and learn from each other a long time ago.

The relationship has been further reinforced since the two countries first set up diplomatic ties on March 30, 1973, and, especially, after they lifted the relations to the level of strategic partnership in 2015, Liem said.

With 562 projects worth over US$ 12 billion, Malaysia currently ranks seventh among the countries and territories directly investing in Vietnam, while bilateral trade reached US$ 6.67 billion in the first half of 2018, up 19.2 percent annually, and is expected to hit US$ 15 billion by 2020.

Liem went on to say that Malaysia has invested US$ 4.6 billion in nearly 250 projects in Ho Chi Minh City, ranking third among the 98 foreign investors there.

Aside from political and economic partnerships, bilateral collaboration in security-defence, culture, education and labour have also resulted in positive outcomes, thereby contributing to the comprehensive bilateral cooperation, as well as to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region, the official added.

For his part, Sofian Akmal Abd. Karim, Malaysian Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, affirmed that the sound relationship between Malaysia and Vietnam is the outcome of the unceasing efforts by the leaders and people of both nations, especially since the establishment of the strategic partnership in 2015.

According to the diplomat, over the past four decades, bilateral trade and investment ties have grown considerably, driven by the favourable economic environment. Meanwhile, encouraging outcomes have also been seen in people-to-people diplomacy, as approximately 248,000 Vietnamese people visited Malaysia and 480,000 Malaysians came to Vietnam in 2017. Educational cooperation programmes and youth exchanges have also taken place regularly, helping to foster mutual understanding, solidarity and friendship.

He said that, although Ho Chi Minh City has attracted one-third of Malaysian investments in Vietnam, the two sides cooperation potential remains huge, particularly in education and tourism.

The official asked the Ho Chi Minh Citys leaders to continue to support activities that are aimed at promoting the bilateral ties in order to help intensify the strategic partnership between Malaysia and Vietnam.

The ceremony featured song and dance performances by Vietnamese artists. The Malaysian Consulate General and partners also introduced a Batik flower-themed fashion collection symbolising the friendship between the two nations.
A woman is accused of driving erratically, injuring cattle and crashing into fences on a NSW rural property that's being used as a donation drop-off point for drought-affected farmers.

Police say the 35-year-old driver hit about 10 fences on the property at Yeoval, south of Dubbo, as well as several cows and the property owners' car on Sunday night.

The owners called police when they spotted the woman's Ford in their driveway and followed her as she fled.

She was nabbed by police hours later and she's alleged to have kicked a senior constable's leg and foot during her arrest.

Officers say they found mobile phones, jewellery, an emergency services medal, methylamphetamine, cash and a pocket knife in her car.

The woman was charged with nine offences, including predatory driving, destroying or damaging property, assaulting an officer and drug possession.

She was refused bail to appear at Wellington Local Court on August 21.
Foreign minister Julie Bishop has used a rare encounter with her North Korean counterpart to discuss the dozens of Australian soldiers still missing after the Korean War.

Ms Bishop met Ri Yong-ho on the sidelines of an ASEAN regional forum in Singapore at the weekend, which is virtually the only international summit attended by the North Korean official.

She raised the issue of 43 Australian soldiers still missing in action after the Korean conflict in the early 1950s and is confident he heeded her concerns.

"I noted the Americans had received the remains of some of their soldiers after the meeting between President Trump and Kim Jong-un and I asked the Australians also be able to access the sites," Ms Bishop told Sky News.

"We offered forensic and expert assistance so that we can recover those Australian remains of soldiers after the Korean War, and he took that on board."

Ms Bishop also pressed the North Korean official on his country's progress towards dismantling its nuclear weapons facilities.

"I took the opportunity to talk to him about the leader's meeting and North Korea's commitment to denuclearisation ... he was noncommittal."

Australia is insistent strict sanctions imposed on Pyonyang remain in place.

"We want to see the complete, verifiable, irreversible dismantlement of North Korea's nuclear program," Ms Bishop said.

"Until we see concrete steps that they are genuine to prove that they will dismantle, then the economic and political and diplomatic pressure on North Korea must remain."
Business chiefs are paying up to $11,000 a head to receive policy briefings and meet with Labor shadow ministers in Sydney.

The two-day Federal Labor Business Exchange began on Tuesday morning and will run until Wednesday afternoon.

A business observer program was to be offered during the ALP national conference but the conference was moved to December when it clashed with the date of five by-elections.

The invitation describes it as a "unique opportunity to receive briefings on major policy areas and network" with shadow ministers.

The full price ticket is $11,000 while the discount price is $8250.
Australian swimming star Ariarne Titmus has confirmed she will not contest the 200m freestyle at the Pan Pacs in Tokyo - the one event in which she was considered a chance of beating American great Katie Ledecky.

Titmus, 17, said her Pan Pacs focus was the 800m freestyle, which clashes with the 200m on the meet's opening day on Thursday.

"I would be really excited to do the 200m and I would prefer to do both but it just sucks that the program is like that," said Titmus, who will also contest the 400m and 4x200m relay.
A man has been charged with attempted murder following a domestic-related stabbing at a home in Sydney's west.

The 52-year-old and a 40-year-old man known to him were found by emergency services with stab wounds at a property in Whalan on Friday.

Both were rushed to hospital, where they remain.

The older man, who also ingested a chemical and remains in a critical condition, was on Monday charged with attempted murder.

His matter will return to Parramatta Local Court on Wednesday.

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One of Australia's top bureaucrats has fired a parting shot at unions, warning Labor's plan to abolish the construction watchdog would be seriously retrograde.

Australian Public Service Commissioner John Lloyd quit in June after scrutiny over his links to right-wing think tank, the Institute of Public Affairs.

In his final speech in the job, Mr Lloyd took aim at the Australian Council of Trade Unions' push to overhaul workplace laws, saying the system was already was too regulated and inflexible.

"There is a risk this will be only amplified if the ACTU agenda of more and deep regulation gains traction," he said on Monday night.

"In that case I think employment prospects for Australia would be damaged."

Speaking at the Institute of Public Administration Australia, Mr Lloyd joked he might make Labor Senate leader Penny Wong unhappy if he dropped the second 'A' in the acronym, a reference to his IPA links.

He said the investigation into whether he breached the public service code of conduct over his ties to his former employer, the IPA, was "most unsatisfactory".

Mr Lloyd also targeted a deluge of "do-gooders" telling people how to live their lives.

"Virtue signalling is rampant in some quarters and this concerns me," he said.

"I think there's a danger the diversity of views and opinions that go to good policy advice could be stifled by a pervasive groupthink dictated by what is politically correct."

He reflected on his time as head of the Australian Building and Consumer Commission, labelling the industry corrupt and ruthless when he took the job in 2005.

"I learnt of the shocking exposures and treatment at the hands of the unions and the head contractors," Mr Lloyd said.

"I believe it would be a seriously retrograde step to abolish the ABCC."

The departing public service commissioner reserved special praise for former Victorian Liberal premier Jeff Kennett.

"In my view the Kennett government was the best organised and most reformist government I've worked for," Mr Lloyd said.

He said the job as commissioner, which ends on Wednesday, would likely be his last full-time role.
WHAT THE NATIONAL ENERGY GUARANTEE PROMISES:

Cleaner, cheaper and more reliable power and Australia's energy and climate policies brought together for the first time.

HOW IT WILL WORK:

* Retailers must have contracts supporting a minimum amount of dispatchable energy to meet consumer and system needs at all times

* The average emissions level of electricity sold to consumers must meet the electricity sector's share of Australia's international emissions reduction commitments

* Australia's current target is a 26-28 per cent reduction on 2005 level emissions by 2030

* The target would be legislated, reviewed every five years and could be raised by future governments

* States and territories can also have their own more ambitious targets

* A stable energy policy is intended to encourage new investment

* New supply coming into the market would in turn drive down wholesale power prices

WHAT HOUSEHOLDS WILL SAVE:

* Households can expect to save $550 a year (relative to 2018) on their power bills through the 2020s, of which $150 is directly a result of the guarantee

WHAT THE ENERGY MIX WILL LOOK LIKE:

* It's technology neutral so there will be no subsidies for renewables or fossil fuels

* Renewables will make up 36 per cent of the national energy market generation within 11 years, up from the current 17 per cent

* Without closing any coal-fired stations the share of coal-fired generation will fall to 60 per cent from 75 per cent

WHEN IT WILL BEGIN:

* The reliability guarantee is due 2019 and the emissions target would replace the Renewable Energy Target from 2020

WHAT'S NEXT:

* Energy and climate ministers will meet in Sydney on Friday for a chance to sign off on the Energy Security Board's final design

* The coalition partyroom will consider it in Canberra next Tuesday

* States and territories will get final say and if approved the plan will go out for public consultation.
Victorian timber businesses fear their industry, along with thousands of rural jobs, is close to collapse and are demanding government action.

Industry workers met at state parliament on Tuesday to lobby their concerns of dwindling supplies and insufficient government protection.

More than 2000 people have signed a petition, tabled in parliament, which says about 50,000 flow-on jobs are in danger and more than 20 towns would be affected by the industry's decline.

Leonard Fenning, of Fenning Timbers, said the uncertainty was causing distress and discouraging investment.

"People like to think they've got a permanent position wherever they are," Mr Fenning said.

"I'd just like to know where we're going - that's all."

Deputy Nationals Leader Steph Ryan told reporters the Labor government's focus on holding inner city seats comes at the detriment of the $7.3 billion timber industry and rural family businesses, many of which have been forced to consider closing.

"For any business, this is incredibly distressing" Ms Ryan said.

"These millers more than anything else need certainty."

Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford's office was contacted for comment.
A brazen thief who crashed a stolen sewage truck through a fence at a Western Australian gold mine then filled it with gold-bearing liquid from a holding dam is "the dumbest person" in town, the company says.

Kalgoorlie's Gold Stealing Detection Unit is investigating the recent attempted "heist" at Northern Star Resources' Kanowna Belle mine.

"It's the most ridiculous thing I've heard and witnessed in Kalgoorlie," chief executive Stuart Tonkin told AAP at the Diggers and Dealers Mining Forum on Tuesday.

"You've just got to look for the dumbest person in Kalgoorlie and you'll find them."

Mr Tonkin suggested the financial loss was unremarkable as the thief or thieves "don't know what they're doing."

"There's really no value. It's a trespassing issue," he said.

"None of our staff were harmed, that's the key thing."

Asked about mine security, Mr Tonkin said the remote operation could be swathed in barbed wire "and someone can still drive a truck through it".
Melbourne City midfielder Luke Brattan has being taken from the field in an ambulance after suffering a potentially serious head injury in their FFA Cup round of 32 clash against Brisbane Roar.

Play was stopped for more than half an hour after an innocuous incident involving Brattan and Stefan Mauk in the first half of the match at Dolphin Stadium in Redcliffe.

Brattan's head appeared to be caught under the weight of a falling Mauk after the pair contested for the ball, with the precise nature and extent of the injury still unclear.
He made the statement at a meeting in Hanoi with Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Louise Mushikiwabo of the Republic of Rwanda, who is the first Rwandan senior official to visit Vietnam over the past 10 year.

At the meeting, the two sides agreed on specific measures to deepen bilateral relations toward effectiveness across different spheres.

In politics, both host and guest voiced their support to increasing exchanges of delegations at different levels of the countries Parties, Governments, parliaments, and authorities of localities.

They said bilateral people-to-people diplomacy needs to be promoted to boost solidarity and mutual understanding.

The host expressed his hope to welcome high-ranking Rwandan officials in the country.

Among measures to push up bilateral trade, the officials agreed to step up liaison on policies and market, facilitate enterprises from both sides, and encourage trade promotion activities via forums, delegation exchanges, and exhibitions.

They also exchanged measures to increase cooperation in agriculture, oil and gas, and defence-security.

Louise Mushikiwabo said Rwanda is looking for Vietnams assistance in the fields of agriculture, mining, and telecommunication, noting that the country welcomes Vietnamese firms to study its market and set up partnerships.

The two officials agreed to soon sign a series of legal documents, including agreements on trade, visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders, and on investment encouragement and protection. They also eyed a cooperation protocol between the two foreign ministries. These pacts aim at creating a favourable legal framework for bilateral ties.

Both host and guest affirmed their commitments to enhancing mutual support and exchange at multilateral forums like the UN and the International Francophone Organisation (OIF).

Deputy PM Minh stated Vietnam is a key member of the Francophone community in Asia-Pacific, which has demonstrated its role and responsibilities in boosting the position of the community in the region.

The two sides informed each other on their nations respective affairs and exchanged views on regional and international matters.

They highlighted their support for a peaceful solution of conflicts, including the East Sea issue, with respect to diplomatic and legal procedures based on international law, particularly the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The cases of Aboriginal children in Victorian detention will be examined by a task force aimed at tackling indigenous over-representation in the justice system.

The Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People Justin Mohamed will lead the task force looking at the treatment of indigenous youths in detention and issues including their access to culture.

It will examine the cases of about 250 Aboriginals in youth justice over 18 months.

"We're going to speak with every Aboriginal child in youth justice detention centres across Victoria," Mr Mohamed told AAP.

"We're really wanting to get the voices of young people into the report."

In 2015/16, 16 per cent of those in the youth justice system identified as Koori despite making up just 1.6 per cent of the general population aged 10 to 18.

Mr Mohamed said it was also important to look at the support Aboriginal children received in the community to help prevent their initial contact with the justice system.

The task force will hear from young people, their communities, police, youth justice workers and the department.

The announcement comes less than a month after a report saying a lack of specialist training for guards and a shortage of Aboriginal liaison officers was eroding detainees' rights to their culture.
Former NT chief minister Marshall Perron will make the case for restoring territories' rights to legalise euthanasia ahead of a potentially divisive Senate showdown on the issue.

Mr Perron will address the National Press Club in Canberra on Wednesday, a week before federal parliament is set to debate legislation lifting the ban on NT and ACT controlling their own euthanasia laws.

The former Country Liberal Party leader made the NT the first jurisdiction to legalise voluntary euthanasia in 1995.

But the federal government overruled the territories' rights with its own laws in 1997.

Crossbench senator David Leyonhjelm's private bill to restore the ACT and NT's ability to legislate on euthanasia is set to be debated in the upper house on Tuesday.

Senator Leyonhjelm traded his vote for re-establishing the Australian Building and Construction Commission in exchange for his bill being debated and voted on.

In June, he said he had a personal guarantee from Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull the Liberal Party would be allowed a free vote on the bill.

He also believes the bill will be allowed to proceed to the lower house, although doubts about that have been raised given the division it could cause in coalition ranks.

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr has written to upper house MPs calling on them to support Senator Leyonhjelm's bill.

Mr Perron, a prominent assisted suicide campaigner, has said the issue is about territories' rights.

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Growth in the South Australian economy into 2019 will mirror expected improvements in the national accounts, a new report is set to reveal.

The University of Adelaide's SA Centre for Economic Studies will discuss the local and national outlook at its latest briefing on Wednesday.

Despite the generally rosy forecast, the briefing will point to risks from the anti-trade measures being imposed by the United States and concerns China will falter.

Wednesday's briefing will also include commentary from former federal opposition leader John Hewson who will speak on SA's place in a "challenging global economy".
A commemorative service is being held in France to remember those who fought and died at the Battle of Amiens 100 years ago, including 2000 Australians.

The Allies launched the largest attack of the First World War east of the French town on August 8, winning an unprecedented victory on the Western Front. The battle, which claimed almost 9000 Allied troops, was the opening act of the 100 days which ultimately ended the war, with Australian soldiers in a leading role.

"The victory at Amiens was greater than any other British success of the First World War, and is not only significant for Australians, but for the world, and the service and sacrifice of these soldiers should never be forgotten," Minister for Veterans' Affairs Darren Chester said in a statement on Tuesday ahead of the service.

"The attack ... was one so overwhelming that Erich Ludendorff, the German Chief of Staff, called it the black day of the German army.

"During this phase of the war the Australians fought in a series of battles, most famously at Mont St Quentin and Peronne before fighting their last infantry battle on the Western Front at Montbrehain on 5 October 1918.

"As the Anzac Centenary 2014-18 comes to a close it is important to remember these critical battles at the end of the First World War, but also to recognise a Century of Service commemorating the service and sacrifice of all Australians killed in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations."
A man has been shot in the arm during a robbery in Melbourne which police believe could be linked to another armed robbery at a near-by service station just minutes earlier.

Police say the gunman is on the run after shooting the victim at a convenience store in Springvale South just before 4.30am on Wednedsay.

The wounded man was taken to hospital with non life-threatening injuries and police are trying to establish if the incident is connected to the service station heist.
A man and a woman are on the run in Adelaide after stealing a car and crashing into several other vehicles, including a police car.

Police say the stolen SUV was spotted at a fast-food restaurant at Edwardstown just after 10.30pm on Tuesday, before the driver reversed into another car in the drive-through section before hitting a police car while fleeing.

A third car was also hit as the SUV took off and the pair were briefly pursued by police before the car was found abandoned a short time later.

Cordons were set up and a search conducted with the help of the dog squad, but the pair escaped.
Standardised testing scores for thousands of Australian students have been delayed because of concerns with comparing written and online tests.

The Australian Education Union claims Education Minister Simon Birmingham was repeatedly warned results from different NAPLAN test formats could not be compared and that scores could be delayed up to five weeks.

The results were due to be released to parents and schools on Wednesday by the national assessment authority.

It's understood some state education heads had issues with comparing scores for the new online tests, sat by one in five students in years three, five, seven and nine, with the traditional handwritten assessments.

AEU boss Correna Haythorpe said it was a "disaster" for the testing system and repeated the union's earlier call for online tests to be scrapped.

"NAPLAN online is fundamentally flawed and must not be implemented," she said.

Education bosses are expected to meet with the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority in Canberra on Wednesday.
Mexico's president warns that some day, the country won't be threatened by a wall, alluding to Trump

Mexico's President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador vowed Monday his country would not be threatened by a wall, in a thinly veiled rebuke to US President Donald Trump's jabs across the border.

"Mexico is going to become a power -- and will change the balance of power. Nobody will threaten us that our borders will be closed or militarized," warned Lopez Obrador, who takes office December 1.

"This will be possible because the country will grow and there will be jobs."

Trump has cited Mexico's record number of homicides last year as one of many reasons the United States needs a more secure border.

The reality star turned president campaigned on a promise to deport undocumented immigrants and build a new border wall with Mexico -- which he said would be paid by America's southern neighbor -- to prevent arrivals of undocumented migrants, whom he has described as criminals.

Trump's explosive remarks cost him business contracts and fueled the worst diplomatic crisis in decades between the United States and Mexico.

On May 14, a senior US delegation led by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met with Lopez Obrador in Mexico City.

But the issue of the wall was not addressed then or in letters that the Mexican president-elect later exchanged with Trump.

Official Mexican government statistics counted 28,711 murders in 2017, the highest since records began in 1997.

The situation has worsened, with another 15,973 murders over the first half of this year alone.
More than a quarter of a million Mali voters were unable to cast a ballot in last week's presidential election because of violence

The Mali government on Monday published a list of 871 polling stations which were unable to operate during last week's presidential election due to outbreaks of violence, adding that almost a quarter of a million people had been unable to vote.

A total of 245,888 voters -- mainly in northern Timbuktu region, central Mopti and Segou in the south -- "were unable to vote for various reasons" during the July 21 election, the ministry of territorial administration said.

The government was responding to calls by the opposition and the European Union to provide more details of the contested vote results.

The three main opposition candidates in Mali's presidential election announced Sunday they were mounting a legal challenge in the country's constitutional court alleging "ballot box-stuffing" and other irregularities, after incumbent Ibrahim Boubacar Keita took the lead in the first round of voting.

Keita won 41.42 percent of the vote in July's presidential poll, according to provisional results, easily ahead of the second place rival Soumaila Cisse with 17.8 percent. They are set to contest a runoff vote next Sunday.

The government had earlier said that 715 polling stations had remained closed out of a total 23,000 nationwide.

Two days after polling took place the European Union pressured Mali to present a "complete and detailed list" of polling stations where a key presidential election could not be held due to violence.

Security was a central issue during the campaign, in which 73-year-old Keita is seeking re-election with the international community hoping the poll will strengthen a 2015 peace accord.

In Mali's north, where the state is barely present, armed groups who signed the peace accord helped to ensure security.

The vote was monitored by observers from the European Union, the African Union, the regional ECOWAS grouping and the Francophonie organisation.

Violence also marred the lead-up to the election, despite the presence of 15,000 UN peacekeepers, 4,500 French troops and a much heralded five-nation anti-terror G5 Sahel force.

The jihadist violence has spread from northern Mali to the centre and south of the country and spilled over into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, often inflaming communal conflicts.

On Monday 18 of the presidential candidates denounced an "electoral hold-up" and called for a major protest in Bamako on Tuesday.

The constitutional court is due to officially announce the first-round results on Wednesday.

Mali, considered a linchpin state in west Africa's troubled Sahel region, is one of the world's poorest countries, with most people living on less than $2 a day.
During the meetings, President Quang affirmed that Vietnam wants to strengthen and further develop the relations and cooperation with all the countries across all fields.

Vietnams authorities will work closely with, and create favourable conditions for the ambassadors to complete their tasks, contributing to expanding the fruitful relations between Vietnam and the nations.

In the meeting with Chilean Ambassador Jaime Chomali Garib, President Quang said Chile is one of the most important partners of Vietnam in Latin America, adding that Vietnam looks forward to continuing to step up the comprehensive partnership between the two countries.

He thanked Chile for supporting Vietnams candidacy for a non-permanent seat at the United Nation Security Council for the 2020-2021 tenure.

Vietnam will closely coordinate with Chile to successfully organise the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in 2019, he affirmed.

President Tran Dai Quang shakes hands with Ambassador of the UK of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Gareth Ward

Talking with Ambassador of the UK of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Gareth Ward on measures to boost the economic ties between the two countries, President Quang asked the diplomat to encourage UK businesses to boost investment and business in Vietnam.

He also called on the UK to help Vietnam access capital sources from the UKs wealth fund, especially in Vietnams priority fields such as business environment improvement, climate change adaptation and infrastructure development.

The President also asked the UK to support Vietnam in enhancing relations with the European Union (EU), and to call on the EU to sign and ratify the Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) in 2018.

Vietnam hopes to bolster cooperation with the UK in education and training, he said, asking the European country to support Vietnam in training in law, finance-banking, insurance, hi-technology.

Cultural and sport exchanges should be prompted between Vietnam and the UK, towards strengthening their friendship and mutual understanding, the Vietnamese leader stressed.

President Tran Dai Quang shakes hands with Polish Ambassador Wojciech Gerwel

At the meeting with Polish Ambassador Wojciech Gerwel, President Quang noted with pleasure the significant progress made in economic ties between Vietnam and Poland over the past time, affirming that Poland is Vietnams largest trade partner in the Central Eastern Europe.

The leader also applauded achievements in bilateral cooperation in culture and education-training, and expressed his hope that the two sides will step up their collaboration in this field on the basis of the agreement on educational cooperation signed in 2017.

He thanked Poland for its support for Vietnams bid to run for a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council for the 2020-2021 term, and called on Poland to continue backing the Vietnam-EU partnership and comprehensive cooperation, including the signing and ratification of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement in 2018.

President Tran Dai Quang and Gambian Ambassador Ramzia Diab Ghanim

Receiving Gambian Ambassador Ramzia Diab Ghanim, President Quang said Vietnam always attaches importance to cooperation with traditional African friends, including Gambia.

However, the bilateral collaboration has yet to match potential of the two countries, he noted, urging both sides to intensify the visits by delegations and boost people-to-people exchanges in order to increase mutual understanding.

Vietnam and Gambia should sign important legal documents to create a framework for bilateral cooperation in specific realms, while boosting their affiliation in the spheres in which the two countries have advantages such as agriculture, maritime economy and tourism, President Quang said.

At the reception for Uganda Ambassador Dorothy SamaliHyuha, the leader suggested Vietnam and Uganda strengthen their economic ties, expressing his hope that the diplomat will promote the African nations trade and investment potential in Vietnam.

Vietnam stands ready to share experience and partner with Uganda in agriculture, fishery, garment-textile and construction, he said.

Meeting Nepali Ambassador KhagaNathAdhikari, President Quang called on the diplomat to contribute to boosting delegation exchanges between the two countries via the Party, State and National Assembly channels, as well as exchanges between their residents and businesses.

While receiving Jamaican Ambassador Antonia Hugh, the President said Vietnam wishes to reinforce cooperation with Jamaica by increasing delegation exchanges and creating favourable conditions for enterprises of both sides to study the respective markets and seek business opportunities.

Sharing with Guatemalan Ambassador Herbert Estuardo Meneses Coronado about positive development in the bilateral relations, especially in economy and trade, President Quang said there is a large room for Vietnam and Guatemala to boost cooperation in agriculture, industry, science technology and services.

He suggested the two sides organise meetings for businesses to explore investment opportunities in the respective markets, as well as promote negotiations to sign cooperation agreements, particularly in the fields of economy, trade, science and technology, and create a favourable legal framework for the long-term cooperation development.

Welcoming Botswana Ambassador Mothusi Bruce Rabasha Palai, President Quang affirmed Vietnam always attaches importance to relations with African countries, including Botswana, adding that Vietnam hopes to enhance cooperation with Botswana for the benefits of the two peoples.

He recommended the two countries strengthen delegation and people-to-people exchanges for better mutual understanding and soon sign a cooperation framework agreement on economy, culture, education, information technology.

The President urged the two sides to boost collaboration in the fields of their strength such as agriculture, tourism, and information technology.

He said Vietnam welcomes the Botswana President to pay an official visit to Vietnam on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the bilateral diplomatic ties in 2019.

The ambassadors expressed their pleasure at the growing friendship and cooperation between their countries and Vietnam over the past time and wished the Vietnamese State and people would gain more achievements in the coming time.

They pledged to spare no efforts to beef up the cooperative ties with Vietnam in economy, trade, investment, tourism and education.
President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita (left) and his main rival, opposition leader Soumaila Cisse (right), cast their first-round votes

The first round of voting in Mali's presidential election gave outgoing President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita a conclusive lead over his rival -- but unresolved anger and finger-pointing over the results have highlighted some of the country's divisions.

Eighteen of the 24 candidates in the election joined forces Monday to demand the resignation of the minister of territorial administration and decentralisation, Mohamed Ag Erlaf.

They accused him of being to blame for an "electoral robbery" and urged people in the capital Bamako to rally on Tuesday.

Keita won 41.42 percent of votes in the July 29 presidential poll in the sprawling west African nation, easily ahead of opposition leader Soumaila Cisse, in second place with 17.8 percent.

They will face each other in a runoff vote next Sunday.

Sources in Cisse's entourage on Sunday said they had filed a case at the Constitutional Court over alleged "ballot-box stuffing, breach of electoral law and irregularities".

Two other opposition candidates, businessman Aliou Boubacar Diallo and former prime minister Cheick Modibo Diarra, who came in third and fourth place, have also turned to the court.

In the north and centre of the country -- shaken by jihadist violence and lawlessness -- ethnic tension has been sharpened by the vote.

The northern town of Gao, along with Timbuktu and Kidal, were captured by the largely Tuareg Azawad liberation movement (MNLA) and jihadist rebels in an uprising in March 2012.

The Islamists took the ascendancy and started to impose strict sharia law in the territory known as Azawad, but French military ground and air forces intervened and routed the rebels in the first five months of 2013.

- Ballot-stuffing accusations -

But the insurgency remains undefeated, and lawlessness abounds.

"It's in the areas where there is no security that you hear that IBK has stolen votes. In those places, the heads of the polling stations took ballot boxes and filled them for IBK," said Abdoulmajid Agagrossi, an unemployed electrician of 23, referring to Keita by his initials.

"This is total fraud," businessman Mohammed Toure asserted in Gao while he drank tea with a group of friends.

"In one constituency, they had 9,772 votes for IBK and just one for Cisse -- but there were only 9,000 registered voters."

The institutions of state are largely absent in the region, and armed groups, mostly Tuaregs, who signed a 2015 peace agreement with the government, are taking part in security during the presidential election.

Some Gao residents charge that the presidential party cut a deal with the armed groups to rig the vote.

"You hear that everywhere in town," said an official with the UN mission MINUSMA, asking not to be named and unable to confirm any challenge to the vote results.

Last March, authorities imposed a week-long curfew throughout Gao following deadly clashes between ethnic Arabs and the Songhai community.

Alassane Maiga, a 45-year-old teacher from Gao, said that "ballot-stuffing in the nomad areas" was chronic.

And he has no doubt about the culprits: what he calls the "light-skinned ones" -- Tuareg and Arab peoples, traditionally roaming tribes of the Sahara, whom he also blames for violence, but cannot provide details.

More than 700 polling stations across the country were unable to open because of violent incidents.

The government released the results at national level, but "has no intention at all of publishing them in detail, constituency by constituency," a source close to the ministry told AFP, ignoring calls by the opposition and international observers for "transparency".
Lane Lawder tries to save his home near Clearlake Oaks, California, on August 4, 2018

Multiple wildfires that together grew Monday to nearly the size of Los Angeles could become the worst in fire-prone California's history, authorities warned.

The River and Ranch fires, which together are called the Mendocino Complex, blackened an area of 273,660 acres (110,750 hectares).

Authorities from state fire agency CalFire reported before midday that it already had mushroomed into the second worst blaze in state history in terms of area burned.

"I expect to see it to be number one, unfortunately, this evening," CalFire spokesman Scott McLean said on Facebook.

The largest ever until Monday had been the Thomas Fire in December 2017. It was 440 square miles (1,140 square kilometers) -- almost the size of Los Angeles.

An air tanker drops retardant on the Ranch Fire, part of the Mendocino Complex

Further north in the state, the Carr Fire has scorched 154,524 acres of land since July 23, when authorities say it was triggered by the "mechanical failure of a vehicle" that caused sparks to fly in tinderbox-dry conditions.

The fire has razed more than 1,600 buildings, including some 1,000 homes, state officials say.

More than 14,000 firefighters were battling the blazes across the state, which has lost another 918 square miles already this year.

The wildfires are "extremely fast, extremely aggressive, extremely dangerous," said Scott McLean, a deputy chief with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

"Look how big it got, just in a matter of days... Look how fast this Mendocino Complex went up in ranking. That doesn't happen. That just doesn't happen."

President Donald Trump raised eyebrows by tweeting about the wildfires inaccurately, claiming there was not enough water to fight them.

"California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized," Trump said.

"It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading!"

In fact, "we have plenty of water to fight these wildfires, but let's be clear: It's our changing climate that is leading to more severe and destructive fires," Daniel Berlant, CalFire assistant deputy director, told The New York Times.

In an unrelated long-running dispute, farmers have demanded more water to irrigate crops for years, while environmentalists say diverting more water to crops would kill off fish stock and hurt rivers.
The Tnagyud Gompa monastery in northern India is isolated by snow for seven months a year

Some 5,500 metres (18,000 feet) above sea level in the Indian Himalayas sits the Tnagyud Gompa Buddhist monastery, where snow can leave the monks in complete isolation for seven months a year.

The monks and residents of the nearby village of Komik, said to be Asia's highest, are already feverishly preparing for winter, stocking up on food and fuel, drying vegetables -- and praying.

Monks and residents of the nearby village of Komik are already feverishly preparing for winter

"These are some of the busiest months as the permanent occupants follow a strict regime of Buddhist prayers, daily chores, preparation for winter months and study of the holy texts," said Perma Sandrup, the monastery's secretary.

"Typically, in our monastery the lamas pray at least two times each day. During summer retreat, which is around one and a half months, they pray the whole day," Sandrup told AFP.

The monastery is currently occupied by around 20 monks, who welcome a trickle of intrepid visitors

The monastery is currently occupied by around 20 monks in their saffron robes and shaved heads, staging festivals and welcoming a trickle of intrepid visitors -- but when the snows come only around a dozen will remain.

Many monks and followers came to the region after Tibet came under Chinese rule almost 50 years ago.

But life at the Komik monastery, which is over 500 years old, and the surrounding area dotted with villages has also been affected by climate change.

Snowfall has been unpredictable in recent years, and any change in the amount of snow affects the fragile ecosystem, especially the water availability in summer.

Life at the Komik monastery, which is over 500 years old, has been affected by climate change and varying levels of snowfall

"Last year we had almost negligible snowfall, which affected most of the remote farming communities in the region who grow peas and potatoes," Sandrup said.

"This is something that most affects the lives of the people and the monks (who have been) living at these monasteries for hundreds of years," he added.

While local residents want more tourists and better infrastructure -- especially medical facilities -- they are also holding out hope those in power can make progress combating climate change.
US President Donald Trump Trump said the sanctions seek to pile financial pressure on Tehran to force a "comprehensive and lasting solution" to Iranian threats

The United States re-imposed a wave of tough, unilateral sanctions against Iran on Tuesday, bringing back into effect harsh penalties that had been lifted under a historic, multi-party nuclear agreement that President Donald Trump abandoned in May.

The first of two rounds of US sanctions kicked in at 12:01 am (0431 GMT), targeting Iran's access to US banknotes and key industries, including cars and carpets.

Iranians are already seeing the effects of the sanctions, with Iran's rial currency losing around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the 2015 nuclear accord.

Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.

He blasted the agreement yet again Monday, calling it a "horrible, one-sided deal (that) failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb."

The unilateral withdrawal came despite other parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the EU -- pleading with Trump not to abandon the pact aimed at blocking Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, and highlights the US leader's go-it-alone style and his distaste for multilateral agreements.

In an executive order Monday, Trump said the sanctions seek to pile financial pressure on Tehran to force a "comprehensive and lasting solution" to Iranian threats, including its development of missiles and regional "malign" activities.

The European Union's diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini said the bloc, as well as Britain, France and Germany, deeply regretted Washington's move.

"We are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran," she said in a statement.

Many large European firms are leaving Iran for fear of US penalties, and Trump warned of "severe consequences" against firms and individuals that continued to do business with Iran.

The impact of the return of sanctions has ramped up tensions inside Iran, which has seen days of protests and strikes in multiple towns and cities over water shortages, high prices and wider anger at the political system.

Severe reporting restrictions have made it impossible to verify the swirl of claims coming through social media.

- 'Remove the knife' -

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has been skeptical about Trump's latest offer for talks

Trump said he was open to reaching a more comprehensive deal with Iran "that addresses the full range of the regime's malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism."

But Iranian President Hassan Rouhani was unimpressed by the offer.

"If you're an enemy and you stab the other person with a knife, and then you say you want negotiations, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife," the Iranian leader said in an interview on state television.

"They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation," Rouhani said. "Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense."

John Glaser, director of foreign policy studies at the Cato Institute, noted that the US sees the sanctions "as a tool to pressure Iran to come back to the negotiating table to rehash the nuclear deal on terms more to Trump's liking. That is not going to happen."

Key economic statistics about Iran

The second phase of US sanctions, which takes effect November 5 and will block Iran's oil sales, is due to cause more damage, though several countries including China, India and Turkey have indicated they are not willing to entirely cut their Iranian energy purchases.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters the global reaction to Trump's move showed that the US was diplomatically "isolated," but acknowledged the sanctions "may cause some disruption."

Rouhani's government has taken emergency measures to stem the collapse of the rial ahead of the return of sanctions.
Around 10,000 figurines of white cats seated with one paw raised are stacked and strewn around the temple, providing tempting fodder for social media mavens from Japan and abroad

Tokyo's Gotokuji temple has long attracted spiritual visitors with its thousands of figurines of beckoning white cats, thought to bring good luck. But of late it has brought in another breed: Instagrammers.

Around 10,000 figurines of white cats seated with one paw raised are stacked and strewn around the temple, providing tempting fodder for social media mavens from Japan and abroad.

"I actually Googled 'Instagram spots Tokyo'," said Emily Lin, a 25-year-old tourist from Hong Kong.

"This was named one of the most 'Instagrammable spots.'"

"These cats are like a symbol of luck in the Japanese culture," she added, looking for for new angles to capture the copious cats.

The feline figurines have certainly brought luck to the temple, which says it is seeing a growing number of visitors

Ying-Chi Hsueh, 31, a photography student from Taiwan, also said he had been drawn to the temple by the photogenic felines.

"I saw a picture on Instagram and I came here using Google Maps," he said.

They were among dozens of visitors there the week before Wednesday's International Cat Day, snapping shots of the temple's "maneki-neko" or "beckoning cat" figurines.

Temple lore says the popularity of the figures was inspired by an event at Gotokuji in the 15th century, in which a cat protected a powerful samurai lord from a thunderstorm

Temple lore says the popularity of the figures was inspired by an event at Gotokuji in the 15th century.

The priest at the time kept a cat called Tama, which according to legend one day strolled out of the temple and raised its right paw to beckon a powerful samurai lord inside -- moments before a thunderstorm stuck.

Impressed by the cat who had helped him escape the storm, the lord became a patron of the temple.

Tama the cat has been immortalised as a stylised white cat figure considered a symbol of good luck in Japan and across Asia, usually depicted sitting on his back legs with one paw raised.

The figurines are often spotted in businesses and some versions feature a paw that moves back and forth.

"The maneki-neko gives you the chance to appreciate what you have, the people you meet," Gotokuji's deputy priest Tessai Kasukawa told AFP.

"The feeling of appreciation will bring you good luck."

And the feline figurines have certainly brought luck to the temple, which says it is seeing a growing number of visitors.

"Now with the Tokyo Olympics coming up (in 2020), we receive many international visitors. They spread the word about the temple, making this place globally famous," Kasukawa said.
The Indonesian Red Cross has set up mobile clinics and a field hospital

The death toll from a powerful earthquake on the Indonesian island of Lombok rose above 130 on Wednesday, as authorities appealed for food, clean water and medical help for some 156,000 people forced from their homes.

Many frightened, displaced villagers are staying under tents or tarpaulins dotted along roads or in parched rice fields, and makeshift medical facilities have been set up to treat the injured.

Evacuees in some encampments say they are running out of food, while others are suffering psychological trauma after the 6.9-magnitude quake, which struck just one week after another tremor surged through the island and killed 17.

Some 1,477 people have been severely injured in the latest quake

"We still need long-term aid, even though we have already received help from various (regional) governments," national disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said.

Around 1,477 people were severely injured in the disaster, with tens of thousands of homes damaged, and authorities say the toll of 131 is likely to rise.

Workers with heavy machinery are searching the rubble of homes, schools and mosques, with hope of finding any survivors fading.

"The corpses are starting to smell and we believe some people buried are still alive -- that's why it's a critical time," Nugroho said.

The governor of West Nusa Tenggara province said there was a dire need for medical staff, food and medicine in the worst-hit areas

Local authorities, international relief groups and the central government have begun organising aid, but shattered roads have slowed efforts to reach survivors in the mountainous north and east of Lombok, which bore the brunt of the quake.

Muhammad Zainul Majdi, governor of the West Nusa Tenggara region which covers Lombok, said there was a dire need for medical staff, food and medicine in the worst-hit places.

Hundreds of bloodied and bandaged victims have been treated outside damaged hospitals in the island's main city of Mataram and other badly affected areas.

"We have limited human resources. Some paramedics have to be at the shelters, some need to be mobile," Majdi told AFP.

"The scale of this quake is massive for us here in West Nusa Tenggara, this is our first experience."

Some evacuees are still grappling with the traumatic scenes of death and destruction that accompanied the quake

Some evacuees are grappling with the traumatic scenes of death and destruction that accompanied the quake.

"I saw my neighbour get stuck in the rubble and die. He asked me for help, but I couldn't help him, we just ran to help ourselves," Johriah, who like many Indonesians goes by one name, told AFP tearfully.

- 'Destruction almost 100 percent' -

The Indonesian Red Cross said it had set up 10 mobile clinics in the north of the island.

A field hospital has also been established near an evacuation centre catering to more than 500 people in the village of Tanjung.

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Kurniawan Eko Wibowo, a doctor at the field hospital, said most patients had broken bones and head injuries.

"We lack the infrastructure to perform operations because (they) need to be performed in a sterile place," Wibowo told AFP.

Across much of the island, a popular tourist destination, once-bustling villages have been turned into virtual ghost towns.

"In some villages we visited the destruction was almost 100 percent, all houses collapsed, roads are cracked and bridges were broken," said Arifin Muhammad Hadi, a spokesman for the Indonesian Red Cross.

Many farmers were reluctant to move far from their damaged homes and leave precious livestock behind, he added.

Quake survivors shelter under a a tent in the compound of a mosque in Lombok's capital Mataram

The Indonesian military said that three Hercules transporter planes packed with food, medication, blankets, tents and water tanks had arrived in Lombok.

The West Sumatra government has donated one tonne of its most famous culinary export, beef rendang -- a slow-cooked coconut curry.

- 'We have no clean water' -

But some evacuees have complained of being ignored or experiencing long delays for supplies to arrive at shelters.

"There has been no help at all here," said 36-year-old Multazam, staying with hundreds of others under tarpaulins on a dry paddy field outside West Pemenang village.

Most patients at the field hospital have broken bones and head injuries

"We have no clean water, so if we want to go to the toilet we use a small river nearby," he said, adding they needed food, bedding and medicine.

At an orphanage in West Lombok, some 80 children -- including a one-year-old -- were huddling under two large tents after their dorms were destroyed.

"We still have supplies for the next few days, but I'm not sure about after that," Billa Rabbani, a spokeswoman from the Peduli Anak orphanage, told AFP.

The quake struck as evening prayers were being said across the Muslim-majority island and there are fears that one collapsed mosque in north Lombok had been filled with worshippers.

Rescuers have found three bodies and also managed to pull one man alive from the twisted wreckage of the mosque, reduced to a pile of concrete and metal bars, with its towering green dome folded in on itself.

Meanwhile, the evacuation of tourists from the Gili Islands -- three tiny, coral-fringed tropical islands off the northwest coast of Lombok -- has finished, officials said.
The 300-foot (90-metre) Equanimity, equipped with pool, helicopter landing pad and cinema, belonged to Jho Low, a flamboyant international financier who allegedly played a central role in the 1MDB controversy

A luxury yacht allegedly paid for with funds from a multi-billion-dollar scandal that helped topple Malaysia's government arrived outside Kuala Lumpur Tuesday, with authorities hoping it will help in their prosecution of the country's disgraced former leader.

The 300-foot (90-metre) Equanimity, equipped with pool, helicopter landing pad and cinema, belonged to Jho Low, a flamboyant international financier who allegedly played a central role in the 1MDB controversy that has engulfed former prime minister Najib Razak.

The yacht -- worth about $250 million -- was handed over by Indonesian authorities who had seized it off the tourist island of Bali in February.

The large, blue and white boat arrived in Port Klang, west of the capital, after setting sail from the Indonesian island of Batam. It was accompanied by a Malaysian navy frigate and three smaller vessels.

A large team of officials was seen entering the yacht. Malaysia's attorney-general welcomed the boat being turned over, and said that "sensitive and delicate negotiations" had taken place between Malaysia, Indonesia and the US to ensure it happened.

Indonesian authorities impounded the boat on a request from the US Department of Justice, which is seeking to seize $1.7 billion of assets allegedly bought with money looted from Malaysian sovereign wealth fund 1MDB.

Najib, his cronies and family members are accused of stealing huge sums from 1MDB in a sophisticated fraud that spanned the globe.

- Shock defeat -

Najib's coalition, which had ruled Malaysia uninterrupted for over six decades, suffered a shock election defeat in May to an alliance headed by his former mentor Mahathir Mohamad, 93, in large part due to the corruption allegations.

The ex-prime minister was arrested and charged with corruption last month. Najib, who set up and oversaw 1MDB, denies any wrongdoing.

In a civil suit seeking to seize assets allegedly bought with 1MDB money, the DoJ alleges that playboy financier Jho Low used about $250 million stolen from the fund to purchase the Cayman Islands-registered yacht.

Jho Low -- full name Low Taek Jho -- had no official positions at 1MDB but was said to exert great influence over the fund. His current whereabouts are unknown but Malaysian authorities have said they want to bring him back to the country and prosecute him.

The government has said it plans to open the Equanimity to public viewing, before eventually selling it off.

Legal experts say the boat could bolster the case against Najib and others linked to the scandal. Cynthia Gabriel, a member of an official team set up to recover assets allegedly bought with stolen 1MDB money, said that the Equanimity being handed over to Malaysia was "very significant".

After Mahathir announced Monday that Indonesia was handing over the Equanimity, the DoJ sought to suspend ongoing legal action in the US courts to take possession of the yacht.

In a filing to a California court, the justice department proposed "that all proceedings in this action be suspended in order to give the government and any interested claimant the opportunity to inquire of Malaysia through formal channels what its intentions are with respect to the defendant yacht".
The sun sets at 7pm even in midsummer in Tokyo

The chief organiser of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics appealed Tuesday for Japan to introduce daylight saving time to reduce the effect of the extreme summer heat on athletes and spectators.

"I want them to use the Olympics as a way to give a maximum push for the project," said former prime minister Yoshiro Mori after meeting current premier Shinzo Abe.

Japan is currently sweating through a deadly heatwave that has seen the mercury top 40 degrees in some parts of the country and sparked fears over the well-being of participants at the 2020 games.

Abe responded by urging members of his ruling Liberal Democratic Party to consider the plan, according to Toshiaki Endo, a former Olympic minister who attended the meeting.

Japan adopted daylight saving time in 1948 under US occupation after defeat in World War II but scrapped it four years later amid concerns it was encouraging longer work hours.

The idea has won favour from some in business and politics as a way to allow the famously hard-working Japanese to enjoy longer summer evenings with their families.

But critics say extending daylight hours risks people staying in the office longer, hindering official efforts to clamp down on overtime.

In Tokyo, the sun sets at around 7pm, even at the height of summer.

Government spokesman Yoshihide Suga told reporters that it was just one proposal among many to mitigate the effects of the heat.

"However, the measure would have a significant impact on the everyday lives of the Japanese people and we only have two years before the event," Suga warned.

He said officials were drafting plans to lessen the impact of the hot weather, including early starting times for competitions and laying special pavement to reduce road surface temperature.

"We are already taking comprehensive and thorough measures," he said.
A crowded crossing in Sydney: Australia's population will reach the 25 million mark on Tuesday

Australia's population was due to hit 25 million on Tuesday, renewing debate about overcrowding and infrastructure pressures in major cities as the government explores ways to encourage migrants into regional areas.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics projects that the population is growing by one person every 83 seconds and is due to reach the milestone figure at 1300 GMT.

It will mark a doubling of the number of people since 1970 who call Australia home.

The population rose by 388,000 last year and about 60 percent of this was due to immigration by people with special skills or family visas.

Despite Australia's huge size, about 90 percent of new arrivals settle in Melbourne and Sydney, the government said, prompting a fresh debate on its approach to migration as cities fill up.

"There are some areas that are feeling population pressures but there's other regions in Australia that are actually crying out for more people," Citizenship Minister Alan Tudge told broadcaster ABC.

"We need a better distribution of migration across Australia because nearly all the migration is going to Melbourne and Sydney at the moment."

Tudge wants migrants to look outside the country's two largest cities to state capitals and regional hubs where he said there were better chances of finding jobs.

The minister added the government was considering levers in its visa allocation to promote regional migration, but did not go into detail.

"We do have an ability to provide additional encouragement, indeed conditions, on people as to where they go," he said.

"So that is what we are exploring, and that is why we are having discussions with the South Australian premier and elsewhere."

Overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure is a major issue in Australia, as state governments jostle with Canberra over planning priorities and funding.

The 25 million milestone has provided fodder for all sides of the political debate, with experts warning that a lack of coherent planning is limiting potential.

"Many individual towns and cities across the country are trying, best they can, to cope with population growth, stimulate population growth, or, for some, curb population loss," said Curtin University geographer Amanda Davies.

"Without a national framework to bring this knowledge and effort together, opportunities are being missed."
US Democrats, like Ohio congressional candidate Danny O'Connor, are seeking to upend Republicans in November's midterm elections, even in districts that voted solidly for President Donald Trump in 2016

The weaknesses of the US Republican Party heading into November's midterm elections were laid bare Wednesday as a special House election featuring a candidate endorsed by President Donald Trump remained unresolved -- a contest that also underscored Democratic momentum.

Trump proclaimed victory for Republican state senator Troy Balderson in Tuesday's race in Ohio for a seat in the House of Representatives, despite it remaining too close to call.

Even if Balderson is eventually declared the winner in Ohio's 12th district, the fact that Democrats were competitive in the solidly red region was the latest example of amped up grassroots energy in the opposition camp.

And it further exposed Republican peril -- already on broad display -- just three months before the elections that will determine whether the GOP can maintain control of Congress.

The Ohio race carries powerful implications, as it is the final direct face-off between Republicans and Democrats before the midterms.

Trump, who made an 11th-hour campaign stop for Balderson, looked to past victories to boost his argument that Republicans were not in trouble.

"The Republicans have now won 8 out of 9 House Seats" in special elections since his inauguration in January 2017, the president tweeted.

"Yet if you listen to the Fake News Media you would think we are being clobbered."

The signs are nevertheless ominous for the GOP.

In many of the races mentioned by Trump, the Republicans underperformed, only narrowly winning elections that should not have been remotely close.

In Tuesday's contest, Balderson was ahead of Democrat Danny O'Connor by just 1,754 votes, with thousands of provisional and absentee ballots outstanding.

The margin, less than one percent, comes in an affluent district that is 88 percent white, and which Republicans have held for 35 years. Trump beat Hillary Clinton there by some 11 points in 2016.

But with the midterm races being seen as a referendum on the president, opposition momentum in Trump country is becoming undeniable.

"Democrats' morale was the big winner last night," tweeted congressman Keith Ellison, the deputy chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

Several key Republicans have agreed with that sentiment, including Ohio Governor John Kasich, who said it was "shocking" that the special election was so close.

"It's clear the energy and intensity is on the Democratic side" nationally, said moderate former Republican congressman Charlie Dent.

- Democratic 'intensity' -

US President Donald Trump has made several trips in recent weeks to campaign for Republican congressional candidates -- on August 4, 2018 he stumped with Troy Balderson at a rally in Lewis Center, Ohio -- ahead of November's midterm elections

The Ohio race also laid bare a critical dimension that could have dramatic implications in November: turnout in the district's fast-growing suburbs was an impressive 42 percent, while in the more rural, lightly populated counties -- the base of Trump support -- turnout ranged from 27 to 32 percent.

Another danger sign for Trump's party: there are more than 60 Republican-held congressional districts that are rated as more competitive than the 12th in Ohio.

Democrats need to flip 23 seats nationally to reclaim the 435-seat House, and they are looking for a "blue wave" to get them over the top.

Trump is worried that losing the House, and potentially the Senate, could hurt his ability to advance his agenda -- and expose him to Democratic efforts to oust him from power.

But he remained insistent that candidates benefit from his endorsement.

"As long as I campaign and/or support Senate and House candidates (within reason), they will win!" Trump tweeted.

In recent weeks, he has made several campaign appearances seeking to boost his picks ahead of state primaries.

But in Kansas, a controversial Trump-endorsed candidate, Kris Kobach, was locked in a race for governor. After Tuesday's primary, which pitted Kobach against the Republican incumbent, the race remained undecided, with Kobach ahead by just 191 votes.

Back in Ohio, O'Connor, who has not conceded and stressed he will run again in November regardless of the outcome, scoffed at Trump's claim to have had an outsize impact on his race.

"I don't think he knows what he's talking about," O'Connor told CNN.

The party in the White House traditionally loses seats in midterm elections.

And Democrats believe mounting voter frustration with Trump is tilting the political playing field further in their favor.

But there were mixed messages Wednesday, when RealClearPolitics put the generic ballot -- a poll of whether Americans will vote for Democrats or Republicans for Congress -- in favor of Democrats by 5.7 percentage points, down from the 6.1 recorded on Friday.

Tuesday's round of primaries in Kansas, Michigan, Missouri and Washington also put Republicans on notice that women could play a determining factor in the midterms.

A record number of women, 183, will now be running for US House seats in November, a surge that follows a year marked by the #MeToo movement and defiance of Trump.
The State President made the statement during receptions for Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Rwanda Louise Mushikiwabo and Guinean Foreign Minister Mamadi Toure in Hanoi on August 7.

He applauded the African ministers for their first visits to Vietnam, expressing his belief that the trips will contribute to effectively promoting bilateral relations between Vietnam and Rwanda and Guinea and the countries, thus optimising the interests of the countries.

President Quang congratulated the two countries on achievements of political stability and socio-economic development in recent times, affirming that Vietnam appreciates the role and contributions of Guinean President Anpha Conde and Rwandan President Paul Kagame as the rotating presidents of the African Union in 2017 and 2018 in promoting peace, development, regional and international integration of Africa.

He also spoke highly positive steps of development in political and economic ties, and mutual support and coordination between Vietnam and the two African countries at multilateral forums, especially the United Nations.

On the basis of sound political relations, the similarity of development level and need, Vietnam and African countries have been successfully implementing many cooperation projects on agriculture, telecommunication, health and education, President Quang said.

These are important premises for the countries to expand cooperation across fields, thus brining benefits to Vietnamese people and those in Africa, including Rwanda and Guinea.

President Quang asked the sides to enhance exchange of all-level delegations, towards deepening their cooperation and fully tapping their potential.

He also urged the sides to devise specific measures boost trade ties, and improve legal frameworks to facilitate stronger multi-faceted collaboration between Vietnam and the two countries.

With the success of Vietnams agricultural projects in many African countries, Vietnam is willing to share its experience with Rwanda and Guinea in the field through bilateral or multilateral cooperation, he affirmed.

The Vietnamese leader hoped that the two countries would create favourable conditions for Vietnamese investors and businesses to make their inroads in the two countries in the future.

He took the occasion to invite the Presidents of Rwanda and Guinea to visit Vietnam in the coming time.

For their part, the African ministers highlighted the traditional friendship between Rwanda and Guinea and Vietnam, saying that the three countries experienced difficult historical periods and are now on the path of development.

Agreeing with President Quangs opinion on measures to foster the relations between Rwanda and Guinea and Vietnam, they affirmed their countries are willing to bolster cooperation with Vietnam in all fields.
Myu, wife of Japanese journalist Jumpei Yasuda who went missing in Syria in 2015, answers questions during a press conference

The wife of a Japanese journalist kidnapped in Syria more than three years ago broke her silence Tuesday to plead for his release after he appeared in a hostage video.

Jumpei Yasuda, a 44-year-old freelancer, was kidnapped in the war-torn country in June 2015, and appeared in a rare video that emerged last week warning that he was in a bad situation.

"There are a lot of people in Japan -- his family, relatives, friends -- waiting for my husband," his wife Myu told a news conference in Tokyo.

"Please return my husband safe as soon as possible," she said tearfully. "As his wife, as his family, I want him... to set foot back on Japanese soil."

Last week Yasuda and captured Italian national Alessandro Sandrini appeared in two separate videos that were similar in their staging.

Both men were wearing orange outfits similar to those of captives in jihadist hostage videos, with armed men whose faces were covered standing behind them.

The videos did not identify which group was holding the men or include specific demands.

Myu, who married Yasuda in 2008, said she had previously avoided speaking publicly about his abduction for fear she could affect negotiations for his release.

But she said when she watched the video, she felt her husband's situation was "not optimistic but urgent" and decided to publicly seek his release.

The video also prompted some of the journalist's friends and family to form a group to free him, campaigning to boost public awareness of the abduction.

Yasuda is thought to have been seized by the group previously known as the Al-Nusra Front, a former Al-Qaeda affiliate, in northern Syria.

But with the shifting territory of Syria's complicated conflict, it is unclear whether he is still being held by his original abductors or has been transferred to other captors.

In the latest video, he identified himself as Korean and gave a different name, but spoke in Japanese.

He gave the recording date as July 25, saying he was in a bad situation and asking for help.

His wife said she had no idea why Yasuda had identified himself as Korean in the video, but confirmed that it showed him and that he is Japanese.

She said Japanese government officials were in frequent contact with her but she was not aware if a ransom had been demanded.

In 2015 militants from the Islamic State group beheaded Japanese war correspondent Kenji Goto and his friend Haruna Yukawa in Syria.

The Japanese government was criticised for what detractors saw as its flat-footed response to the crisis at the time, including apparently missed opportunities to free both men.
Worshippers were at prayer when the quake hit Lombok on Sunday evening

A shattered mosque in quake-hit northern Lombok, where sandals remain scattered outside its entrance, has become a focal point of the rescue effort after one weeping man was hauled out of the wreckage.

An unknown number of worshippers were performing evening prayers at the Jabal Nur mosque in the village of Lading-Lading on Sunday when the 6.9-magnitude quake sent deadly tremors coursing through the ground.

Congregants described chaotic scenes as the shallow quake hit, bringing down walls and bending the minaret. Some got out before the roof came down, others did not.

"We were praying when suddenly an extremely strong shaking occurred," Tara, who like many Indonesians only has one name, told AFP.

"I immediately grabbed my grandson, who is three years old, everyone was then scrambling to get out," he added.

As many as 50 people may have been in the mosque at the time of the quake, another witness named Kelana told AFP.

"Our imam ran, so the others followed," the 53-year-old said, adding he couldn't tell how many people managed to escape.

Three bodies and one survivor have been pulled from the mosque so far

Police, soldiers and volunteers have worked frantically to remove debris from the site in scenes repeated across the picturesque volcanic island, which draws holidaymakers from around the world.

On Monday there was a brief moment of success. Video posted by rescuers online showed a dazed and disorientated man, dust-covered and still wearing his prayer cap, pulled alive from the twisted remains of the building.

"You're safe sir, you're safe," one rescuer said as the man burst into sobs.

But the emergency crews have also had to contend with death. Three times now they have come across and removed broken bodies crushed under the weight of tonnes of concrete and rebar.

Rescuers have used concrete cutters and excavators to claw through the rubble, while shattered roads had initially hampered efforts to bring heavy machinery into the village.

Rescuers say they will not stop looking.

"We estimate there are still more victims because we found many sandals in front of the mosque," national disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, told reporters on Tuesday.

Rescuers have used concrete cutters and excavators to claw through the rubble of the collapsed Lombok mosque

Across much of Lombok, once bustling villages have been turned into virtual ghost towns, with residents sleeping out in the open, scared to stay near their shattered homes amid regular aftershocks.

Eerie footage filmed in Tanjung district in the island's north showed streets deserted, save for a few nervous residents and motorcycles passing along the dusty main road.

Power lines have been toppled and many houses reduced to piles of stone and plaster.

More than 20,000 people are believed to have been made homeless, with 236 severely injured. Officials expect the toll to rise.
Pyongyang says the women were kidnapped while Seoul insists they defected of their own free will

Officials from South Korea's top rights body have met some of the 12 North Korean waitresses at the centre of a blazing row between Seoul and Pyongyang to determine whether they were tricked or coerced into coming to Seoul in 2016.

The National Human Rights Commission announced a probe into the high-profile case last month, after the top UN human rights official on North Korea met some of the women and urged an investigation.

The issue has long been controversial, with Pyongyang saying the women were kidnapped from a North Korean state-run restaurant in China while Seoul insists they defected of their own free will.

"We have interviewed some of the waitresses," an official at the commission told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"We plan to meet the others as well if they are willing to talk to us," he said, declining to give details.

The probe follows a call by Tomas Ojea Quintana, the United Nations' Special Rapporteur on human rights in the North, who asked Seoul to carry out a "thorough and independent investigation" and to "hold to account those who are responsible".

In a bombshell revelation in May, the manager of the restaurant where the waitresses worked said that he had lied to them about their final destination and blackmailed them into following him to the South.

Heo Gang-il told the South's JTBC television that he had been recruited by Seoul's National Intelligence Service (NIS) in China in 2014.

Fearing exposure in 2016, he asked his NIS handler to arrange his own defection. But at the last minute his minder threatened to report him to the North Koreans unless he brought the waitresses with him.

Seoul's Unification Ministry has previously said the waitresses defected to the South of their own free will.

But Pyongyang has repeatedly insisted the women were abducted, while rights activists in the South have demanded an investigation.

Lawyers for a Democratic Society, an influential group of human rights lawyers, who have made unsuccessful attempts to interview the women, said those responsible should be given "stern punishment". The waitresses must be allowed to return home and reunite with their families, it said.

In an interview with the New York Times published at the weekend, Heo said Seoul had promised to keep the "defections" secret to protect the North Koreans' families.

But it reneged on the deal once they landed in the South, where their arrival in April 2016 made headlines as the largest group arrival in years.

Heo has also said that Seoul had promised him rewards -- an NIS job and a medal -- which had not materialised.
Najib (C) is surrounded as he leaves court after posting bail in early July: he reportedly faces fresh charges

Malaysia's disgraced ex-leader Najib Razak will face new charges in court Wednesday under anti-money laundering laws in a case linked to a multi-billion-dollar graft scandal, authorities said.

The announcement came after Najib, who suffered a shock defeat in May elections, was summoned for a new round of questioning by the anti-corruption agency.

Najib was arrested last month and charged with criminal breach of trust and abusing his position over accusations he pocketed 42 million ringgit ($10.3 million). The new charges he faces are in relation to the same case, the anti-graft agency said in a statement.

All the charges relate to the scandal surrounding sovereign wealth fund 1MDB, which was set up and overseen by Najib.

The former leader, his family and cronies are accused of embezzling huge sums that were used to buy everything from artwork to high-end real estate in a sophisticated fraud that spanned the globe.

The graft allegations were a major factor in the defeat of Najib's long-ruling coalition by a reformist alliance headed by political heavyweight Mahathir Mohamad, 93.

After questioning Najib Tuesday for 45 minutes, the anti-graft agency said he would be charged under the anti-money laundering law in relation to SRC International, an energy company that used to be a subsidiary of 1MDB.

He is to face three new charges, the official news agency Bernama reported.

According to an investigation by the Wall Street Journal, about $10 million originating from SRC was transferred to Najib's personal bank accounts.

Najib has so far pleaded not guilty to all charges against him.

Shortly after his downfall, a treasure trove of valuables was seized in raids on properties linked to Najib and his family -- including cash, jewellery and luxury handbags -- worth up to $273 million.
The murder comes just three weeks after a woman was brutally killed by a mob in the same state over the same falsehood shared on social media

Indian police said Tuesday that 10 people had been arrested over the murder of a man accused of kidnapping children in the latest lynching linked to rumours circulating on WhatsApp.

More than 20 people have been killed in similar attacks across India in the past three months leaving local authorities, as well as Facebook-owned WhatsApp, scrambling for solutions.

Police said the latest victim was murdered on July 28, but villagers only discovered his decomposing body down a well nearly a week later.

The 29-year-old was set upon in Dindori district in Madhya Pradesh state by a mob wielding iron bars and bamboo rods.

"The attackers threw the body in a well and fled," Dindori police chief Kartikeyan K told AFP.

He said local residents grew suspicious of the victim, who was from a neighbouring district, after rumours spread on WhatsApp about child kidnappers and organ harvesters prowling the area.

Another three suspects are being sought, Kartikeyan said.

The murder comes just three weeks after a woman was brutally killed by a mob in the same state over the same falsehood shared on social media.

The unidentified woman was murdered on July 19 after villagers suspected her of being a child kidnapper.

Lynchings are nothing new in India, but the spread of smartphones to even the most remote corners has enabled rumours to be shared at lightning speed and in huge volumes.

The spate of attacks related to hoaxes about child abduction gangs began last year in Jharkhand state with the emergence of a video that has since spread across India.

At least 23 people have been killed since February for similar reasons, provoking calls for intervention to curb the violence.

Last month the Indian government threatened WhatsApp with legal action, saying it "cannot evade responsibility and accountability" for the malicious rumours.

WhatsApp responded by increasing the number of steps required before a message can be forwarded, and limiting the number of recipients it can be forwarded to.

The instant messaging giant issued newspaper adverts in India -- its largest global market -- sharing tips on how to spot misinformation and rumours.
NATO is investigating claims that one of its air strikes killed nine Afghan police officers

NATO is investigating reports that at least nine Afghan police officers were killed in a US air strike during heavy fighting with the Taliban in eastern Afghanistan, its mission said Tuesday.

Afghan officials have confirmed the deaths, with interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi saying nine police were killed and 14 wounded in the aerial bombardment in Azra district of Logar province.

During the hours-long battle with insurgents overnight, police "called in air support but unfortunately foreign forces mistakenly bombed their positions", Rahimi said.

The Taliban also suffered heavy losses, he added.

Provincial council chief Hamidullah Hamid told AFP "foreign forces" had mistakenly bombed two police checkpoints and killed "about 15 police".

Resolute Support, NATO's mission in Afghanistan, confirmed US forces had conducted an air strike "in defense of Afghan forces" in Azra district but did not mention casualties.

"We are looking into the matter further," spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Martin O'Donnell told AFP.

The US is the only international force known to be carrying out air strikes in Afghanistan. The Afghan air force also carries out some attacks.

There are about 14,000 US ground troops in Afghanistan, making up the bulk of NATO's mission to support and train local forces.

Some of the US forces are involved in counter-terrorism operations, particularly against the Islamic State jihadist group.
Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that sanctions reimposed on Iran were the "most biting ever" as he warned other countries from doing business with Tehran.

"The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level," he wrote in an early morning tweet.

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less."

The sanctions reimposed on Tuesday -- targeting access to US banknotes and key industries such as cars and carpets -- were unlikely to cause immediate economic turmoil.

Iran's markets were actually relatively buoyant, with the rial strengthening by 20 percent since Sunday after the government relaxed foreign exchange rules and allowed unlimited, tax-free gold and currency imports.

But a second tranche coming into effect on November 5 covering Iran's vital oil sector, could be far more damaging -- even if several key customers such as China, India and Turkey have refused to significantly cut their purchases.

Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.

The unilateral withdrawal came despite other parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the EU -- pleading with Trump not to abandon the pact aimed at blocking Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
A student places a wooden 'Ema' plaque with her wishes for entrance exam sucess at the Yushima Tenjin shrine. Tokyo Medical University has admitted altering entrace test scores to keep women out

A Tokyo medical school on Tuesday admitted entrance test scores for female applicants were routinely altered to keep women out and apologised for the discrimination after a probe.

"We betrayed the public trust. We want to sincerely apologise for this," Tokyo Medical University managing director Tetsuo Yukioka told reporters as he bowed deeply.

Such alterations "should never happen," added Keisuke Miyazawa, vice president of the university, pledging next year's entrance exams would be fair without giving further details.

Japanese media last week reported that the university had for years been lowering the scores of female applicants in order to keep the ratio of women in the school at 30 percent or lower.

Initial reports suggested the practice dated to 2011, but a probe conducted after the reports found the alterations started as early as 2006, Kyodo News reported Tuesday.

The scandal was uncovered by investigators looking into claims the university padded the scores of an education ministry bureaucrat's son to help him gain admission, and local media said other instances had been discovered where individual entrance test scores were revised upwards, suggesting favouritism.

But female applicant test scores meanwhile were lowered across the board.

The manipulation was "nothing but discrimination against women," said one of the lawyers hired by the university to investigate the alterations, speaking a press conference Tuesday.

Sources told local media the discrimination was the result of a view that women would not be reliable doctors after graduation.

"Women often quit after graduating and becoming a doctor, when they get married and have a child," one source told the Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper when it broke the story last week.

In 2018, the ratio of women accepted to the medical school after the first round of tests was 14.5 percent, compared with 18.9 percent for men.

In the second and final test stage, just 2.9 percent of female applicants were admitted, compared with 8.8 percent of male applicants.

The story has caused outrage in Japan, with women's empowerment minister Seiko Noda calling the practice "disturbing."

"It's extremely disturbing if the university didn't let women pass the exams because they think it's hard to work with female doctors," public broadcaster NHK quoted her saying Tuesday.

Japanese women are highly educated in general but the country's notoriously long work hours force many out of the workplace when they start families.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has made "womenomics" -- or boosting women's participation in the workplace and promoting women to senior positions -- a priority, but the pace of progress has been slow.
Ivory Coast's former first lady Simone Gbagbo, seen here in 2014, has spent seven years behind bars

Ivory Coast's former first lady, Simone Gbagbo, who is serving a 20-year jail term, will be freed on Wednesday after President Alassan Ouattara granted her an amnesty, her lawyer said on Tuesday.

The wife of former president Laurent Gbagbo has spent seven years behind bars for her role in a wave of political violence that claimed several thousand lives in 2010-11.

On the eve of independence day, Ouattara had on Monday announced an amnesty for Simone Gbagbo and around 800 others in the name of national reconciliation.

Her attorney, Rodrigue Dadje, told AFP she would be "released tomorrow, after the judicial formalities have been completed."

She was "delighted to learn the news of her release," Dadje said.

Simone Gbagbo was convicted for "endangering state security" for her part in post-electoral violence and sentenced in 2015.

She had been implicated in the 2011 shelling of a market in an Abidjan district that supported Ouattara and for belonging to a "crisis cell" that allegedly coordinated attacks by the armed forces and militias in support of her husband.

Laurent Gbagbo has been in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague for seven years. He has been on trial since 2016 for alleged crimes against humanity.

In February 2012, the ICC also issued a warrant for Simone Gbagbo's arrest.

In 2016, Ouattara said he would "no longer send" Ivorian nationals to the court, as the country now had a "functioning justice system."

About 3,000 people died in the turmoil that erupted in Abidjan -- once one of Africa's most cosmopolitan cities -- after presidential elections in November 2010 when Laurent Gbagbo refused to accept defeat to Ouattara, his bitter rival.

The conflict left a legacy of political friction that endures today. The lack of national reconciliation has been seen by many observers as the biggest mark against Ouattara's record.

Among others granted amnesties were former defence minister Lida Kouassi -- a key Gbagbo ally -- who was sentenced this year to 15 years for conspiracy, and former construction minister Assoa Adou, jailed in 2017 for four years.

Around 500 of those named have already been released provisionally from detention, the president said. They will have their criminal records erased.

The other 300 will be released "soon", he added, without giving any dates.
The notice stated that Vietnamese citizens in Lombok and West Nusa Tenggara should remain calm and monitor the subsequent notifications from the local authorities.

If anyone needs assistance, please call the Embassy's hotline at +62 811161025 / +62 21 3100358 or email: jakarta@mofa.gov.vn
Ola co-founder Bhavish Aggarwal said the ride-hailing company plans to expand its services across Britain by the end of the year

Indian ride-hailing company Ola announced on Tuesday that it is to launch services in Britain, expanding its foray abroad and intensifying its battle with US rival Uber.

Britain will be Ola's second venture into a foreign market after it started operations in Australia in February .

Ola said in a statement that it had obtained licenses to operate in South Wales and Greater Manchester.

It said it would start the South Wales operations within the next month and was inviting private vehicle owners and taxi drivers to partner with it.

"Ola is excited to announce its plans for the UK, one of the world's most evolved transportation markets," co-founder Bhavish Aggarwal said in the press release.

Ola plans to expand its services across Britain, where Uber already has a presence, by the end of the year, the company added.

Ola was launched in 2011 and claims to handle around a billion rides a year across India's major centres and seven cities in Australia.

Ride-hailing apps are booming in India despite stiff opposition from traditional taxi firms and some initial concerns about passenger safety.

Ola and Uber are locked in an aggressive fight for a greater share of India's taxi-app market, which is estimated to be worth around $10 billion.

Both companies are backed by Japan's SoftBank Group and recently ventured into the food delivery business, further intensifying their rivalry.
Rescue workers helped the injured at the US embassy in Nairobi after the massive blast in 1998 which left 213 dead

Kenya and Tanzania on Tuesday marked the 20th anniversary of devastating US embassy bombings in Nairobi and Dar Es Salaam, which signalled Al-Qaeda's emergence as a deadly player on the global stage.

In Nairobi, a solemn ceremony reunited families of the victims and officials at a memorial park in the centre of the Kenyan capital, created on the site of the US embassy.

The diplomatic mission was devastated by a huge explosion on the morning of August 7, 1998, followed minutes later by another massive blast which wrecked the US embassy in Tanzania.

A total of 224 people were killed in the attacks and around 5,000 injured -- mostly African citizens.

"Twenty years ago today, evil showed its terrible face in Kenya and Tanzania," US Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec told the Nairobi gathering.

"In the middle of a busy Friday morning, Al-Qaeda terrorists exploded bombs outside the US embassies here in Nairobi and in Dar es Salaam."

"In an awful moment, the lives of thousands changed forever as did the lives of their families and friends," he added.

The Nairobi Chamber Choir gave performed the Kenyan and American national anthems, then participants held candles while the names of the victims were read out to the sound of a solo violin.

"On that day, the perpetrator's -- Al-Qaeda -- appetite and ambition for large-scale attacks grew," said Martin Kimani, head of Kenya's National Counter Terrorism Centre.

"Since then, large parts of the world have endured repeated attacks by terrorists," he added.

A similar memorial service was scheduled to take place in Dar Es Salaam.

The twin attacks introduced the world to Al-Qaeda's leader Osama bin Laden three years before the September 11 attacks in New York would make him a household name.

Almost 3,000 people died when hijacked passenger aircraft hit the Pentagon in Washington and destroyed the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center, the symbol of New York's financial wealth.

20th anniversary of the attacks against US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania

In May 2011, the White House announced that Bin Laden had been killed in Pakistan by US special forces.
At the height of the protests thousands of students took part in marches over road safety

Days of protests over road safety in Bangladesh looked to be fizzling out Tuesday after around 150 people were injured in clashes with riot police and pro-government thugs wielding iron bars.

Nine days of protests saw tens of thousands of teenagers and students paralyse traffic in the capital Dhaka and beyond. Eight buses were torched and hundreds of vehicles vandalised.

Police responded with tear gas and rubber bullets while allegedly pro-government mobs attacked demonstrators, photographers and even the US ambassador's car.

Students said on Tuesday that many went back to school as they fear further government repression if the protests continued.

"We are panicked. We hear that some of the students who took part in yesterday's protests have been arrested," a private university student told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Another student, Ratul Abdullah, said four of his friends have been missing since yesterday.

"Today everything is normal. Students have returned to their classes," Mahbubur Rahman, head of Bangladesh's secondary and higher education authority, told AFP.

"So far no news of protests from any university," he said, adding that the authorities have shut down two universities in an effort to quell the protests.

Some 200 students at a state-run university in western city of Rajshahi however joined a march and rally, a student activist of the university said.

The protests, initially by highschoolers and then students, were to demand better safety on Bangladesh's chaotic and corruption-riddled transport network after a bus killed two teens on July 29.

At least 7,397 people -- around 20 a day -- died in road accidents last year, up nearly a quarter from 2016, according to the private Passengers Welfare Association.

At the height of the protests, hundreds of students were seen managing Dhaka's notorious traffic and checking whether cars and buses had valid licences and proof of roadworthiness.

The lengthy standoff attracted major foreign media interest and criticism of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government from the United Nations, Washington and rights groups.

On Monday, as students threw bricks at police using tear gas and rubber bullets, the government sought to quell the anger with promises of tougher sentences for dangerous driving.

- 'We want justice' -

Analyst Ali Riaz, a professor of Illinois State University, said the protests reflected broader issues including "the absence of accountability in governance and the absence of rule of law".

"Simmering discontent among the younger population about the direction of the country has surfaced through this movement. Their slogan, 'We want justice' is quite telling in this regard," he said.

"Whatever happens to the movement in the coming days, however it ends, the younger generation has demonstrated that they can challenge the prevailing culture of fear; their courage will have an indelible mark on the Bangladeshi society and politics," he said.

Rights groups have also called for the immediate release of Shahidul Alam, a renowned Bangladeshi photographer detained on Sunday night after comments on Al Jazeera and on Facebook about the demonstrations.

Alam, who authorities said was being questioned for "giving false information" and "provocative comments", said on Monday that he was beaten in custody.

"(They) washed my bloodstained punjabi (tunic) and made me wear it again," he said as he was taken into a Dhaka court.
Fighters from the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of the Palestinian Hamas movement, take part in a military show in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Yunis on December 5, 2017

An Israeli strike on Tuesday killed two militants of the Gaza Strip's ruling Hamas movement after shots were fired at soldiers, Gazan and Israeli officials said.

The Islamist group's military wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, confirmed in a statement that the dead men were its fighters, naming them as Ahmed Murjan and Abdel-Hafez al-Silawi.

It said a series of explosions had targeted a military site while it was being visited by senior leaders, without naming them.

An Israeli military statement, apparently referring to the same incident, said that the army returned fire after shots were fired at its soldiers from a Hamas post in the northern Gaza Strip, next to the border with Israel.

Palestinian security sources said that the Israeli attack was in the north of the strip.

A video distributed by the Israeli army appeared to show a tank striking a military post in the Gaza Strip.

The military said it was prepared "to target any aggression against Israel and holds Hamas responsible for everything happening in and from the Gaza Strip."

It added that no Israeli troops were injured in the exchange.

Hamas warned Israel that it would pay for the attack, without elaborating.

"The resistance cannot allow the occupation to impose a policy of bombing sites and targeting fighters without paying the price," it said in a statement.

Speaking later, Hamas leader Ismail Haniya condemned what he called a "crime."

He said the movement was facing "rapid political and field developments."

Since Palestinian protests and clashes along the Gaza border erupted at the end of March, at least 160 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire.

One Israeli soldier has been shot dead by a Palestinian sniper.

The protests call for Palestinians to be able to return to the land they or their families fled or were expelled from in the 1948 war surrounding the creation of Israel.

Israel says any such return would mean its end as a Jewish state.

Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas have fought three wars with Israel since 2008.

The United Nations and Egypt are currently trying to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas for a lasting truce.
President of the Democratic Republic of Congo Joseph Kabila

DR Congo President Joseph Kabila scheduled talks on Tuesday with allies to discuss hand-picking a candidate to run in upcoming elections on the eve of a key campaign deadline, sources said.

Members of a pro-Kabila alliance known as the Common Front for Congo (FCC) "have been called to an important meeting this evening at Kingakati," a minister told AFP, referring to the presidential residence on the outskirts of Kinshasa.

Another source, close to Kabila, said, "It's not a secret any more -- it's about naming a candidate for our presidential platform."

Candidates have until late Wednesday to file their bid for the December 23 poll -- a ballot seen as crucial for the future of the notoriously unstable country.

Kabila, in power since 2001, should have stepped down at the end of 2016 when his constitutional two-term limit expired.

He has invoked a constitutional clause enabling him to stay on as caretaker.

But he has left everyone guessing whether he will seek to run again, perhaps by arguing that this is permissible because of a revision of the constitution in 2006.

The uncertainty has ratcheted up political tensions, leading to anti-Kabila protests that have been bloodily repressed.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has never known a peaceful transition of power since it gained independence in 1960.

Kabila, 47, has been at the helm since 2001, taking over from his father, Laurent-Desire Kabila, who was assassinated by a bodyguard.

His tenure over the vast mineral-rich country has been marked by a reputation for corruption, inequality and unrest.

Many provinces are in the grip of armed conflict and millions have had to flee their homes, many flocking to Uganda, Tanzania, Angola and Zambia.

After Wednesday's deadline for applications, the definitive list of candidates will be announced on September 19.
The Congolese health ministry on August 1 said the country was facing its tenth outbreak of Ebola since 1976

Nine confirmed Ebola victims have died since the virus resurfaced in the Democratic Republic of Congo this month, the country's health ministry said Tuesday.

The previous official toll was seven dead, with the two latest victims -- like all the others -- registered in the Beni region in North Kivu province, an eastern region with deep security problems which shares borders with Uganda and Rwanda.

The health ministry on August 1 announced that the country was facing its 10th outbreak of Ebola since 1976.

Thirty-three people died in an outbreak in the northwest which was only declared over at the end of July.

"In total, 43 cases of haemorrhagic fever have been reported in the (Beni) region, including 16 confirmed and 27 probable, and 46 suspected cases are under investigation," the ministry said Tuesday.

Almost 1,000 people who have had "contact" with the virus have been registered in health zones under surveillance, it said.

Ebola causes serious illness including vomiting, diarrhoea and in some cases internal and external bleeding. It is often fatal if untreated.

Targeted vaccinations are expected to begin on Wednesday.

"Twelve teams of vaccinators will be deployed in different affected areas," the ministry said, adding that teams had arrived in Beni.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said the "deterioration of the security situation" in affected area was expected to hinder the response to the outbreak.

The Red Cross announced that it was rushing a "multidisciplinary" team of 19 people to Beni.
Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif (L) welcomes North Korean counterpart Ri Yong Ho in Tehran on August 7, 2018

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif met with his North Korean counterpart Ri Yong Ho on Tuesday, on the same day the US reimposed nuclear-related sanctions on the Islamic republic.

Zarif welcomed Ri and a team of officials at the foreign ministry in Tehran, but no statement was made to reporters.

Ri is on a two-day visit to Tehran, and is due to meet with President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday.

Fars news agency said the two sides discussed "bilateral relations and regional issues in the Middle East", without giving further details.

The visit coincided with the United States reimposing sanctions on Iran after President Donald Trump abandoned a 2015 multilateral nuclear deal in May.

The US is currently also pushing Pyongyang to scrap its nuclear capabilities after Trump and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un agreed a vague commitment to "denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula" at their landmark summit in June.

A UN panel of experts has expressed concern over military collaboration between Iran and North Korea in the past.

In a 2017 report, it noted the presence of designated North Korean weapons traffickers living in Tehran and the similarity between missile designs in the two countries.

Ri was present alongside a high-level Iranian delegation at a meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement in Baku, Azerbaijan in April, according to Pyongyang's official KCNA news agency.

A North Korean delegation also attended President Hassan Rouhani's inauguration in August 2017.
Congolese soldiers on peacekeeping duty as part of an African Union force patrol the village of Boda in Central African Republic in April 2014.

A court in the Republic of Congo jailed three soldiers for three years for "mass murder" during a peacekeeping mission to the Central African Republic, but the convicts have been freed, Human Rights Watch said Tuesday.

"The sentences deny justice to the victims, who included women and children," the New York-based NGO said in a statement, protesting that the jail terms "do not reflect the gravity of the crime."

Human Rights Watch only gained access to the court ruling in July, after it was handed down on April 25, and stressed that the three men "are now free, having served most of the sentence."

In March 2014, a dozen civilians went missing at Boali in strife-torn CAR, after a clash between local anti-Balaka militias drawn mainly from the Christian population and troops of an African Union mission known as MISCA. That force was later replaced by the current UN mission MINUSCA.

Two years after the trouble, a mass grave was found near a former MISCA base at Boali and international pressure was placed on Congo to see that an investigation took place.

The remains of 12 people were found in the grave in February 2016 and all were eventually identified as individuals detained by Congolese MISCA troops after the altercation with the anti-Balaka forces, in which a peacekeeper was killed.

"The authorities in the Republic of Congo missed an opportunity to provide justice for the murders of civilians and to show that no peacekeeper is above the law," said Lewis Mudge, Africa senior researcher at Human Rights Watch.

"Giving the soldiers who committed murder little more than a slap on the wrist sent a damaging message to other peacekeepers that they risk little if they commit such crimes."

In April, the appeals court in the Congolese capital Brazzaville consisted of judges and jurors who were handling the case with regard to its classification as war crimes and crimes against humanity, HRW said.

"What kind of justice is this?" a Central African family member asked Human Rights Watch. "The Congolese judges must explain how the murderer of my brother is free after only three years of detention."

The NGO noted that the entire Congolese contingent was repatriated by the United Nations in July 2017, after other documented instances of killings and human rights abuses.

It urged the African Union to publish an internal report into the Boali incidents and urged the continental body to press Congolese authorities for details of the reasoning behind the lenient sentences.

A special criminal court was created in 2015 to try war crimes and crimes against humanity in the CAR since 2003, year of a successful coup. Its investigations are due to begin in the second half of 2018.
Indian activists hold placards as they take part in a protest over the sexual assault of girls at a state-run home in Bihar

India's top court Tuesday ordered the government to explain what it was doing to prevent rape at state-run children's homes as horrific details emerge of sex abuse rings.

Narendra Modi's political opponents also seized on the scandals at two government-run facilities, accusing the prime minister of keeping quiet about India's record of rape.

Police are investigating the sexual assault of dozens of girls at the shelters in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The states are governed in coalition or outright by Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The Supreme Court on Tuesday, hearing a plea into the Bihar case, admonished the Modi government's record in tackling rape.

"Every six hours, a woman is raped in India," declared a three-judge bench in New Delhi.

"What is to be done? Girls and women are getting raped left, right and centre."

The Delhi Commission for Women Monday announced a committee to audit all government shelters across the national capital.

Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday attacked Modi over the issue, saying the prime minister was vocal on all subjects "but not women".

"Women are being raped in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and so many other states but the prime minister is quiet," the main opposition leader told supporters in Delhi.

India's treatment of women has attracted global scrutiny since the gang-rape and murder of a young student on a New Delhi bus in 2012 made international headlines.

Her brutal murder sparked nationwide protests and led to tougher sentences for perpetrators.

But sex crimes remain rampant and activists say women are reluctant to come forward, meaning the real figure for rapes is much higher than recorded.

Indians took to the streets in April in numbers not seen in years after details emerged of the rape and murder of a Muslim infant and the separate assault on a teenager by a BJP state lawmaker.
People walk by murals on the wall of the former US embassy in the Iranian capital Tehran on August 7, 2018 after US President Donald Trump warned countries against doing business with Iran

Russia on Tuesday said it was "deeply disappointed" by US President Donald Trump's decision to re-impose unilateral sanctions on Iran.

"We are deeply disappointed by US steps to reimpose its national sanctions against Iran," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement.

The ministry said it will do "everything necessary" to save the historic 2015 Iran nuclear deal and protect its shared economic interests with Tehran.

"This is a clear example of Washington violating UN Resolution 2231 (on the Iran deal) and international law," the statement said.

Moscow said the multi-party nuclear agreement Trump abandoned in May has "shown its effectiveness".

It called on the international community "not to allow such significant achievements in multilateral diplomacy to be sacrificed in the name of American aspirations to settle political scores with Iran."

Moscow said the multi-party 2015 Iran nuclear agreement Trump abandoned in May has "shown its effectiveness"

"As long-term experience has shown, it will not be possible to gain concessions from Iran using pressure," the statement said.

The US re-imposed a wave of tough, unilateral sanctions against Iran on Tuesday, bringing back into effect harsh penalties lifted by the deal.

The first of two rounds of US sanctions kicked in at 12:01 am (0431 GMT), targeting Iran's access to US banknotes and key industries, including cars and carpets.

Iranians are already seeing the effects of the sanctions, with Iran's rial currency losing around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the nuclear accord.

Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.
The jolt destroyed thousands of houses and buildings, forcing thousands of people to flee homes and take shelters, spokesman of the National Agency for Disaster Management Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said.

The impact of Sunday (August 5)'s powerful quake extended on Monday as a rescue for tourists in three small islands is underway, said the official.

"The impact of the quake is looked to extend further as risks assessment persists," he told Xinhua in a text message.

Lombok Utara district suffers the most as it is situated the nearest to the quake center, the official added.

About 1,000 holiday makers, including foreign and domestic visitors, who have been trapped in three small popular destinations, located near main Lombok island, have been rescued, Sutopo added.

Poor access of communication still hampers emergency relief efforts, he said.

Meanwhile, aids are flowing into the affected-areas, including foods, drugs, and medical personnel, the spokesman said.

In order to support relief efforts, two helicopters and communication devices were sent to the scene along with one navy hospital ship, he added.

To monitor the condition and presence of the tourists, a crisis center was established by the Ministry of Tourism, said Sutopo.

The jolts caused minor damages in both Lombok international airport in Lombok Island and Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali Island, notwithstanding, they did not halt the operation, an official of transport ministry Pramintohadi said.

The official, however, cautioned all stakeholders of aviation industry to be alert on the further risks of aftershocks.
Shahidul Alam (C) was arrested at home by plainclothes policemen on Sunday after he went live with Al Jazeera speaking about the recent student protests

Bangladesh's high court Tuesday ordered authorities to send an arrested award-winning photographer to hospital for treatment, a lawyer said, after the veteran journalist and rights activist accused police of beating him up in custody.

Shahidul Alam, 63, a renowned Bangladeshi photographer, was arrested at his Dhaka residence by plainclothes policemen on Sunday after he went live with Al Jazeera speaking about the recent student protests rocking the country.

A lower court on Monday remanded him into custody for seven days after police pressed preliminary charges against him under the country's controversial internet law.

He was accused of making "false" and "provocative" comments during the nine days of unprecedented protests by teenagers and students over road safety that paralysed Dhaka until last weekend.

As he was brought to a magistrate's court for a remand hearing on Monday, Alam told reporters that he was beaten by his interrogators and that they made him wear his bloodstained tunic.

But in a rare move, the high court on Tuesday suspended the remand and instead ordered him shifted to a state-run hospital in Dhaka after his wife filed a petition, his lawyer Jyotirmoy Barua told AFP.

"The court also ordered the authorities to form a medical board to examine Alam's health conditions and submit a report by Thursday," Barua said.

Police would not be allowed to question Alam during his treatment but could only guard him at the hospital as he was "still under custody", he added.

Alam's arrest capped a turbulent week in Bangladesh as tens of thousands of students in Dhaka and beyond protested demanding justice and safe roads after two teenagers were killed by a speeding bus.

Over the weekend and on Monday, more than 150 people were injured, doctors said, as police fired tear gas and rubber bullets and allegedly pro-government mobs attacked demonstrators, journalists and even the US ambassador's car.

Alam, the founder of Pathshala South Asian Media Institute, a photography school in Dhaka that spawned hundreds of photographers, shot images of the demonstrations and discussed the protests on Facebook Live.

New York-based Human Rights Watch demanded his release, denouncing Bangladeshi authorities for targeting activists and journalists instead of prosecuting those responsible for unlawfully attacking student protesters.

The protest seemed to have fizzled out on Tuesday, with students telling AFP that they feared further government repression if the demonstrations continued.

The Delhi-based Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia also demanded the "immediate release" of Alam and condemned his arrest and "ill treatment".
President of the Democratic Republic of Congo Joseph Kabila

DR Congo President Joseph Kabila's chosen candidate to run in upcoming presidential elections will be announced on Wednesday, his spokesman said, on the eve of a key campaign deadline.

Members of a pro-Kabila alliance known as the Common Front for Congo (FCC) were called to the presidential residence on the outskirts of Kinshasa on Tuesday evening for an "important meeting," a minister told AFP.

The chosen candidate "will be known early in the morning," Kabila's spokesman Lambert Mende told AFP after the talks.

During Tuesday's meeting at Kabila's family farm in Kingakati, outside the capital Kinshasa, the president addressed those present without discussing his own political future, participants said.

Kabila, in power since 2001, should have stepped down at the end of 2016 when his constitutional two-term limit expired, but has so far refused to say if will seek to run again.

Some of his opponents suspect that Kabila will still attempt to cling to power and seek a third term, despite the constitutional limit.

The uncertainty has ratcheted up political tensions, leading to anti-Kabila protests that have been bloodily repressed.

Names in the rumour mill include former prime minister Augustin Matata Ponyo; Kabila's chief of staff, Nehemie Mwilanya Wilondja; and the president of the National Assembly, Aubin Minaku.

Ahead of Tuesday's pro-Kabila alliance meeting, a source close to Kabila, said: "It's not a secret any more -- it's about naming a candidate for our presidential platform."

Candidates have until 1530 GMT Wednesday to file their bid for the December 23 poll -- a twice-delayed ballot seen as crucial for the future of the notoriously unstable country.

- Volatile -

A country of some 80 million people, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has never known a peaceful transition of power since it gained independence in 1960.

Kabila, 47, took over from his father, Laurent-Desire Kabila, who was assassinated by a bodyguard.

His tenure over the vast mineral-rich country has been marked by a reputation for corruption, inequality and unrest. The watchdog Transparency International ranked it 156 out of 176 countries in its 2016 corruption index.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Many provinces are in the grip of armed conflict and millions have had to flee their homes, many flocking to Uganda, Tanzania, Angola and Zambia.

The United States is ready to impose further sanctions to dissuade Kabila from continuing his hold on power, the Financial Times reported Monday.

"The US is trying to convince Kabila to go between now and August 8," an unnamed source told the newspaper. "They're trying to squeeze his family and his finances".

- Candidates -

Former warlord and ex-vice president Jean-Pierre Bemba returned home last week to file his election bid

Candidates who have already filed their bid include Jean-Pierre Bemba, 55, a former warlord and Kabila rival, who returned to Kinshasa last week after being acquitted of war crimes convictions by the International Criminal Court in The Hague.

Fellow heavyweight opposition candidate, Felix Tshisekedi, leader of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), filed his application on Tuesday.

Another candidate, who also declared his hand on Tuesday, is Tryphon Kin-Kiey Mulumba -- once a spokesman to former dictator Mobutu Sese Seko and twice a minister under Kabila.

Kin-Kiey -- a vocal Kabila supporter -- is running as an independent, local media said.

He told AFP he was running "in the name of my party," called the Action Party.

The authorities last week barred Moise Katumbi, 53, a wealthy businessman and former governor of the province of Katanga, from returning home to file his bid.

Katumbi has been living in self-imposed exile in Belgium since May 2016 after falling out with Kabila.

The pro-Kabila FCC is an election platform combining two groups, the Presidential Majority and the People's Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD).

After Wednesday's deadline, the definitive list of candidates will be announced on September 19.

bmb-st/mbb/pvh
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has overseen dramatic reforms but drawn criticism over human rights

Saudi Arabia's diplomatic rupture with Canada underscores the kingdom's newly combative foreign policy to tame international criticism after a crackdown on domestic critics, as it struggles to implement risky reforms, analysts say.

Saudi Arabia on Monday expelled Canada's ambassador and recalled its own envoy while freezing all new trade and investments, after Ottawa denounced a new crackdown on women and human rights activists in the kingdom.

Riyadh also said it will relocate thousands of Saudi students studying in Canada to other countries, while state airline Saudia announced it was suspending flights to Toronto.

Experts said the move illustrates how the oil-rich kingdom is increasingly seeking to use its economic and diplomatic muscle to quell foreign criticism under its young de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

"This is clearly an attempt to bully countries to tone down their criticism of Saudi Arabia," James Dorsey, a fellow at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, told AFP.

"The question is: are they going to allow themselves to be bullied? They (critics) are not going to fall on their knees."

Canada on Monday indicated it will not back down, despite the risk of imperilling business deals including a significant $15 billion agreement to sell Riyadh light armoured vehicles.

If the deal is scrapped, thousands of jobs could be lost in Canada, experts say.

But "Canada will always stand up for human rights, in Canada and around the world, and women's rights are human rights," said Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland.

- 'Discipline foreign critics' -

Canada annoyed Riyadh last week when it called for the "immediate release" of rights campaigners, including award-winning women's rights activist Samar Badawi, the sister of jailed blogger Raif Badawi.

Saudi activist Samar Badawi received an International Women of Courage Award in Washington on March 8, 2012

Samar Badawi was arrested along with fellow campaigner Nassima al-Sadah last week, the latest victims of what Human Rights Watch called an "unprecedented government crackdown" on women activists.

It came after more than a dozen women's rights campaigners were detained and accused of undermining national security and collaborating with enemies of the state.

"After 'disciplining' domestic critics through warnings & arrests (Saudi Arabia is) seeking to use economic leverage & diplomatic actions to discipline foreign critics as well," tweeted Kristin Diwan, of the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington.

So far major Western powers including the United States -- a key ally of Saudi Arabia -- have not publicly come out in support of Canada, though it is not the first country to be targeted for speaking up.

In March 2015, Saudi Arabia recalled its ambassador from Stockholm over criticism by the Swedish foreign minister of Riyadh's human rights record.

Earlier this year, Bloomberg News reported that Saudi Arabia was scaling back its dealings with some German companies amid a diplomatic spat with Berlin.

The move came after Germany's foreign minister last November remarked that Lebanon was a "pawn" of Saudi Arabia after the surprise resignation of its Prime Minister Saad Hariri while in Riyadh.

"Saudi Arabia was historically defined by its calculated diplomacy," Gulf affairs expert Khalil Harb told AFP.

But such an "aggressive and rash" stance towards Canada illustrates an "extremist foreign policy driven by the young crown prince", Harb added.

Prince Mohammed has drawn criticism not just over human rights but also for pursuing a ruinous bombing campaign in neighbouring Yemen, which is in the grip of war and a humanitarian crisis.

- 'Hyper-nationalism' -

Lashing out at Canada, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir on Monday said the kingdom "will deal with any interference decisively".

Some Saudi supporters bashing Canada on social media appeared to take that threat too far.

A pro-Saudi Twitter account stirred outrage when it invoked 9/11 imagery with a digitally altered image showing a plane flying towards the Toronto skyline.

The account later apologised and the image was reposted with the plane removed, but screenshots of the original tweet spread quickly.

Saudi Arabia appeared to have shut down the account on Tuesday.

"What we're seeing... is (an) example of growing hyper-nationalism constructed in Saudi Arabia: vigorously defending sovereignty through punitive measures against transnational civil society groups and countries that support them," said Diwan.

But proponents of Prince Mohammed's aggressive stance say he seeks to avoid complications that could derail his highly sensitive social and economic reform drive -- opposed by many arch-conservatives.

The 32-year-old crown prince, set to be the first millennial to occupy the throne in a country where half the population is under 25, has introduced a string of reforms such as lifting a decades-long ban on women drivers.

The prince "aims for change but is unwilling to be guided by other countries, nor establish quick change that could trigger the risk of conflict inside the kingdom," Najah al-Otaibi, a senior analyst at pro-Saudi think-tank Arabia Foundation, told AFP.

"Of course Canada can continue supporting Saudi Arabia's reforms, but through means other than pressure and criticism."
A member of a US-backed militia removes an Islamic State group flag from a pole in the town of Tabqa on April 30, 2017

The Islamic State group is looking to recapture lost power by reverting to the grisly tactics that first propelled it to global notoriety, analysts say, including executions and kidnapping minorities.

IS last week beheaded a 19-year-old student, one of more than 30 Druze Syrians it kidnapped in late July during a spate of suicide bombings, shootings and stabbings in Syria's southern Sweida province.

While official IS media quickly claimed responsibility for the attacks, the propaganda channels have made no mention of the kidnappings.

Instead, local sources and war monitors say the jihadists were in talks to swap the Druze hostages for IS commanders and other fighters held by Syria's government.

"On one hand they are publicly killing people, but then behind the scenes they can take hostages and swap," says Hassan Hassan, senior fellow at the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy.

"That's key -- the whole thing is part of an attempt to revive its cells, bring back some of its resources, and replenish some leadership and ranks with people who have been kidnapped or held in prisons," says Hassan.

IS has fallen far since declaring a so-called "caliphate" across Syria and Iraq in 2014, where it implemented its ultra-conservative interpretation of Islam, including public executions.

Last year, the group lost its twin seats of power -- Mosul and Raqa -- and a few months ago was ousted from its foothold in Syria's capital Damascus.

Many of its top commanders have been killed, and regime and US-backed forces are separately detaining IS members -- including its infamous foreign fighters -- across the country.

But even as its wings get clipped, IS will likely keep using "swift hit-and-runs to kidnap people".

"The government is stable and secure, but the communities bear the brunt," says Hassan.

- 'Crosses all red lines' -

IS has used similar tactics in Iraq and in Syria's northeast, where in 2015 it abducted 220 Assyrian Christians that it ultimately traded for a large ransom.

Negotiations for the remaining Druze hostages -- 14 women and 15 of their children -- are taking place through Russian coordination with Syria's government, according to a top Druze religious leader.

The student beheaded by IS last week was taken hostage alongside his mother.

Relatives received footage of the young man speaking before he was killed, as well as his decapitation and images of his lifeless body.

It was the latest episode of the traumatising saga that began with the July 25 attacks, which killed more than 250 people -- most of them civilians.

Coffins are lined up during a funeral in southern Syria on July 26, 2018 after a deadly attack claimed by the Islamic State group

The violence has left Syria's Druze reeling after seven years of being relatively cocooned from the war.

Analysts say that brand of shock and terror has also long been a part of IS's modus operandi.

"They need a soft target in the same way when they attack the West -- a soft target maximises their reach, the pain, it damages the support system, it's a divide-and-conquer strategy," says Hassan.

Perhaps IS's most infamous attack against a minority community was its raids against Iraq's Yazidis in 2014, when it forced tens of thousands from the tiny religious group to flee and captured girls and women as spoils of war.

Khattar Abou Diab, a Paris-based expert on Syria, says raids on the Druze evoked those dark times.

"The actions and abuses waged against the Druze civilians since that Black Wednesday (July 25) very much resemble those carried out by IS against the Yazidis in Iraq," says Abou Diab.

"For this ancestral community, taking female hostages crosses all their red lines," he adds.

- 'Create anarchy' -

The Druze, who made up three percent of Syria's pre-war population, follow a secretive faith seen as an offshoot of Islam but cast by IS as heretical.

Their leaders have sought to maintain a precarious arrangement with the regime: in exchange for maintaining their loyalty, Druze men would not be conscripted and sent to fight far from home.

By targeting the Druze, IS wants to rupture that relationship, according to Pieter Van Ostaeyen, a Belgian expert on jihadists.

Attacks on July 25, 2018 claimed by the Islamic State group on Syria's southern Sweida province killed more than 250 people, most of them civilians

"An attack on the Druze community in Sweida is aimed to create unrest, and an attempt to make them rebel against the regime," he says.

"After all, this is the old tactic of IS in all of its incarnations: to try to create anarchy, unrest and ultimately take control over the chaos."

IS perfected the strategy in its early years, when it was just the Islamic State in Iraq, and will pursue it to recapture the territory and global infamy it once had.

"IS and other terrorist groups will continue to perpetrate attacks in Syria, and minorities will always be the main targets," says Fabrice Balanche, an expert on Syria.

"Even though IS has no territory, it remains clandestinely in Syria."
An attack in Syria's southern Sweida province on July 25, 2018 claimed by the Islamic State group killed more than 250 people, most of them civilians

Pro-government Druze militiamen hanged a member of the Islamic State group in Syria's Sweida on Tuesday, a monitor said, just days after the jihadists executed a young hostage from the minority group.

IS abducted more than 30 Druze civilians -- women and their children -- from a remote village less than two weeks ago, during a brutal onslaught in the southern province.

The hostage situation and beheading has sparked outrage among the Druze, and on Tuesday a militia struck back.

"A member of IS was detained during an attack against a pro-regime position in the Sweida countryside," said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

During the assault, an IS suicide bomber killed four government loyalists but other militia members managed to detain a second jihadist fighter.

"Druze militiamen loyal to the regime executed the IS fighter in one of the public squares in Sweida city, by hanging," said Abdel Rahman.

Sweida 24, a local news outlet, said the IS member had been caught Tuesday morning in a desert area of the province.

Hundreds of people watched the execution, according to both the Observatory and Sweida 24.

Sweida province is the heartland of the country's Druze minority, which made up around three percent of Syria's pre-war population -- or around 700,000 people.

On July 25, IS waged a series of suicide bombings, shootings, and stabbings that left more than 250 people dead across the province, most of them civilians.

It later emerged the jihadists had also kidnapped more than 30 Druze women and their children during the attack.

While IS claimed responsibility for the violence, it has made no mention of the abductions on its usual channels.

But local sources say the group is using the hostages as a bargaining chip to pressure Syria's government to release jihadists in its custody.

A top Druze religious official told AFP the negotiations were taking place with Russian mediation, and in coordination with Syria's regime.
Fifteen year-old Alex Schenck carries a water bucket while fighting to save his home as the Ranch Fire tears down New Long Valley Rd near Clearlake Oaks, California

Tens of thousands of firefighters on Tuesday were battling relentless flames ripping across California, as the death toll from a series of infernos that first erupted last month hit 11.

The raging Mendocino Complex fire comprised of twin blazes in the western state's north ravaged more than 290,000 acres (117,359 hectares) -- approximately the size of sprawling Los Angeles -- in less than two weeks, becoming California's largest wildfire ever recorded since bookkeeping began a century ago.

Some 14,000 firefighers including reinforcements from as far as Australia and New Zealand have arrived to combat the firestorm devouring broad swaths of the state.

The River Fire of the Mendocino Complex is 78 percent contained, having burned 48,920 acres -- but its partner blaze the Ranch Fire has grown to 241,772 acres and is just 20 percent contained.

Limited access, heavy fuel loads, low fuel and high temperatures were all impeding firefighters' efforts to rein in the conflagration, the state's CalFire authority said.

Helicopters and airplanes, including two massive DC-10s and a 747 jumbo jet, were supporting firefighters by dousing the flames with water.

Two people have died in the inferno, taking to 11 the number of people killed by major fires that are becoming something of a constant in the fire-prone state.

Map locating the areas burnt by the "Mendocino Complex" which has become the largest in California's history, destroying an area the size of Los Angeles

The Carr Fire to the north has meanwhile engulfed 167,113 acres since igniting July 23 and killing seven people thus far.

Firefighters have managed to get it 47 percent contained, challenged by varying wind patterns and rough terrain that includes steep drainages.

Another major fire, Ferguson, has left two dead and forced the closure of part of the Yosemite national park, and is currently only 38 percent contained.

Several thousand people have been evacuated, although some have been given permission in recent days to return to their homes.

The Mendocino Complex is the second fire to break records in California in as many years, following the Thomas Fire in December 2017 that destroyed 281,893 acres.

"This is part of a trend -- a new normal -- that we got to deal with," the state's governor Jerry Brown told journalists of the "horrific" wildfires.

- Climate change effects -

A helicopter prepares to drop water on the Ranch Fire, part of the Mendocino Complex Fire

In the state's south near San Diego hundreds of personnel were deploying to tackle the fast-moving Holy Fire in the Cleveland National Forest.

After igniting in a relatively small area on Monday afternoon it mushroomed to 4,000 acres and was not contained at all as of Tuesday morning, according to the US Forest Service.

Two other national forests in the counties of Los Angeles and Ventura were on high alert because of searing temperatures, strong winds and parched vegetation.

"If fire ignition occurs, conditions are favorable for very rapid fire spread," the National Weather Service warned in a statement, saying "extreme fire behavior" could "threaten life and property."

On Monday the Pentagon said it would send 200 soliders to assist firefighters in fending off the flames, many of which have encroached on federal lands.

In a series of eyebrow-raising tweets President Donald Trump meanwhile suggested environmental laws -- rather than climate change -- was to blame for the spike in wildfires devastating parts of the west.

"California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized," he said Monday. "It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading!"

The Republican president infuriated much of the international community last year when he withdrew from the Paris climate change pact, intended to combat global warming by reducing emissions.

Wildfires in the state of California as seen from the International Space Station

His missive drew exasperated sighs from many including authorities at CalFire: "We have plenty of water to fight these wildfires," Daniel Berlant, the agency's assistant deputy director, told The New York Times.

"Let's be clear: It's our changing climate that is leading to more severe and destructive fires."
The US State Department is caught in the middle as allies Canada and Saudi Arabia engage in a public diplomatic row

The sharp diplomatic row between Saudi Arabia and Canada has left Washington -- partners and allies of both -- in a bind, but the State Department on Tuesday nevertheless urged Riyadh to respect due process for detained activists.

Saudi Arabia has expelled Canada's ambassador, recalled its own envoy and cut off trade ties with Ottawa after the US neighbor denounced a crackdown on rights activists in the kingdom.

"Both sides need to diplomatically resolve this together. We can't do it for them," said State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert.

The United States "raised" the case with Riyadh, she said, adding: "The United States has respect for internationally recognized freedoms and also individual liberties. That certainly has not changed."

Saudi Arabia notably was angry with Canada for demanding that Riyadh "immediately release" some of the detained activists.

It has suspended scholarships for Saudi students in Canada and plans to relocate them to other countries, and the state airline Saudia is suspending flights to Toronto.

Nauert stopped short of criticizing the detention of rights activists in Saudi Arabia

"Some of these issues we choose to discuss privately with our friends, with our partners, with our allies," Nauert said.

"I can tell you however we have raised these issues and I'll leave it at that."

Earlier, another State Department spokeswoman told AFP on condition of anonymity that Washington had asked Riyadh for more information about the cases of several detained activists.

"We continue to encourage the government of Saudi Arabia to ensure all are afforded due process and to provide information on the charges and case status of legal actions against activists," she said.
Recording artist Lady Gaga speaks onstage during the 2018 MTV Movie And TV Awards

Pop star Lady Gaga on Tuesday announced a residency in Las Vegas with twin shows to display her two sides -- extravagant and glitzy, and stripped back and jazzy.

At 32, Lady Gaga is unusually young and culturally prominent to launch a residency in Sin City, generally the preserve of older artists who either want to set up elaborate productions away from the rigors of the road or to cash in on the nostalgia of tourists.

Lady Gaga said her shows would begin on December 28 at the newly rebranded Park MGM, a giant complex on the Las Vegas Strip which was initially built as the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino in the style of the Mediterranean gambling hub.

The synth-pop star once known for her eye-popping attire and ultra-extroverted sexuality plans two shows, with one, entitled "Lady Gaga Enigma," promising more of her theatrics.

"We're creating a show unlike anything I've done before. It will be a celebration of all that is unique and different within us," she said in a statement.

"The challenges of bravery can be overcome with creativity and courage that is grown out of adversity, love and music."

The other show, "Lady Gaga Jazz and Piano," will star her singing minimalist versions of her songs as well as pop standards.

Gaga refashioned her career four years ago when she teamed up with classic crooner Tony Bennett, who is six decades her senior.

She similarly adopted a more mature sound on her latest album, "Joanne," which veered into country music with lyrics about family ties.

Lady Gaga announced "Enigma" shows through November 2019 with only a handful of the stripped-back concerts.
Brenda Pereira (23) holds her four-month-old baby Maria Fernanda as they wait for medical exams at the State Brain Institute (IEC) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in early 2017

About one in seven babies who were exposed to the Zika virus in the womb have at least one developmental defect a year later, said a US study Tuesday.

The rate of abnormalities -- about 14 percent -- represents more than 30 times the level expected in infants that were not exposed to the mosquito-borne virus, officials with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said.

Health problems included small head size -- known as microcephaly -- brain or eye damage, seizures, and developmental delays, said the CDC Vital Signs report, the largest study to date on outcomes of babies born to mothers who were infected with Zika during pregnancy.

"Some of these problems were not apparent at birth and were identified as the babies grew older," said the report, which included more than 4,800 pregnancies that had positive lab tests for Zika in the US territories of American Samoa, Micronesia, Puerto Rico, Marshall Islands, and US Virgin Islands from 2016-2018.

The report focused on the US territories, which were hardest hit by the outbreak, and did not include US mainland cases.

"From these pregnancies, 1,450 babies were at least one year old and had some follow-up care reported for this analysis," it said.

A total of 203 "had a Zika-associated birth defect, neurodevelopmental abnormality possibly associated with congenital Zika virus infection identified, or both."

The rate of Zika-related birth defects is on par with prior studies in Brazil and other areas that were hard hit by Zika, said Peggy Honein, director of CDC's Division of Congenital and Developmental Disorders.

"We have pretty consistently seen five to 10 percent of the babies from pregnancies with Zika having one of these brain or eye defects, or microcephaly," she told reporters on a conference call.

"There have been some reports that have used different criteria and have included a broader range of outcomes, including some findings on MRI imaging of unknown clinical significance and if you use broader criteria you will see more babies affected," she added.

"We think there isn't a geographic difference but more of a case-criteria difference."

- Transmission ongoing -

There have been 74 cases of Zika so far this year in the US territories, almost all in Puerto Rico, said Lyle Pedersen, director of CDC's Division of Vector Borne Infectious Diseases.

"There is ongoing transmission in Puerto Rico, but it is at a much lower level than obviously we have seen in previous years," he said.

A massive outbreak of Zika swept Latin America and the Caribbean beginning in 2015, eventually reaching 86 countries in the Americas and Africa.

The last known case of local transmission of Zika on the US mainland was in 2017, with two cases in Florida and five in Texas, officials said.

Zika can cause a rash, headaches and muscle aches but is particularly dangerous to pregnant women because it has been proven to cause birth defects, including structural damage to the fetus's brain, eyes and nervous system.

The virus can be spread by mosquitoes and also by sexual contact.

Women who are pregnant are urged to stay away from areas where Zika transmission is ongoing, and men who have been exposed are advised to wait three months before attempting to conceive with a partner.

"The Zika story is not yet over. We are still learning more every day about the full impact of these infections," said Honein.
Rick Gates (L), a one-time official in Donald Trump's presidential campaign, detailed tax evasion schemes on his second day of testimony in the trial of ex-campaign chief Paul Manafort

Defense attorneys for Donald Trump's former campaign chief Paul Manafort, on trial for tax and bank fraud, sought to shred the credibility of the prosecution's key witness on Tuesday, forcing him to reveal that he had an extramarital affair and stole money from his boss.

Rick Gates, Manafort's long-time deputy, came in for a withering cross-examination as he took the stand in a packed federal courtroom in Alexandria, Virginia.

The 46-year-old, who has pleaded guilty to conspiracy and is cooperating with the government, began the day by describing how he helped Manafort evade US taxes on millions of dollars earned from political consulting work they did in Ukraine.

Under questioning by prosecutor Greg Andres, Gates walked the six-man, six-woman jury through the foreign bank accounts used by Manafort to receive payments from Ukrainian politicians -- money that was not reported to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

"He always had control over the accounts," Gates said of Manafort, and the income was not reported to his bookkeepers, his accountants or the US tax authorities.

When it was his turn to question Gates, defense attorney Kevin Downing went on the offensive, pressing him on what amount of time he would have expected to face in prison had he not agreed to cooperate with the government.

Gates conceded it was "in excess of 50 to 100 years," but said any eventual sentence -- including avoiding jail by receiving probation -- would be up to a judge.

Downing forced Gates to admit he had stolen hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort by filing bogus personal expenses claims and that he had engaged in an extramarital affair and kept an apartment in London for that purpose.

"Were these payments for your secret life?" Downing asked.

"I acknowledge I had a period of time when I had another relationship," said Gates, who is married and has four children. "I already admitted on the record that I took unauthorized funds from Mr Manafort."

Manafort, seated at the defense table, stared intently at Gates while his defense attorney hammered him with aggressive questions, but his former business partner carefully avoided his gaze.

"After all the lies you've told, and the fraud you've committed, you expect the jury will believe you?" Downing asked Gates.

"I'm here to tell the truth," Gates replied. "Mr Manafort had the same path.

"I'm here. I'm trying to change," he said.

Gates appeared to be referring to his decision to enter into a plea agreement with the office of Special Counsel Robert Mueller in exchange for his trial testimony.

- Income as loans -

Manafort, 69, is the first defendant to go to court to fight charges stemming from Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

The veteran Republican operative is not on trial for anything he did while serving for three months in 2016 as chairman of Trump's presidential campaign.

Instead, Manafort is charged with evading taxes and bank fraud related to the money he made providing political consulting services in Ukraine.

While Gates and others have pleaded guilty, Manafort has refused to strike a deal and legal experts say he may be holding out hopes of a pardon from Trump.

Gates was hired by Manafort to serve as deputy campaign chairman and later had a role on Trump's inaugural committee.

Asked if had also claimed unauthorized personal expenses from the inaugural committee, Gates replied "It's possible."

Earlier Tuesday, Gates told the court that Manafort would frequently pay for clothing, landscaping and other personal expenses using wire transfers directly from his bank accounts in Cyprus and others in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Gates also said that when their political work in Ukraine dried up in 2015, Manafort had difficulty paying his bills and had no other clients at that time.

He also said Manafort had asked him to disguise income as loans.

"The idea of exchanging income for loans reduced his overall tax liability," Gates said.

Manafort, who helped Republicans Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan reach the White House, was Trump's campaign chairman from May to August 2016.

He was forced to step down amid questions about his lobbying work for Ukraine's former pro-Russian leader Viktor Yanukovych.

Mueller, a former FBI director, has indicted more than 30 people -- including 26 Russians -- in connection with his probe into whether members of Trump's campaign colluded with Russia to help get the real estate tycoon elected.

Trump has denounced the probe as a politically motivated "witch hunt" and denied there was any collusion with Moscow to defeat Democrat Hillary Clinton.
Visitors evacuate from Gili Trawangan near Lombok Island in Central Indonesia, Aug. 6, 2018. The death toll rose to 91 and the number of injured people was up to 209 after a 7.0-magnitude quake hit tourist destination of Lombok Island in central Indonesia, an official said on Monday.(Xinhua/Liang Fangfang)

JAKARTA, Aug. 6 -- The death toll rose to 91 and the number of injured people was up to 209 after a 7.0-magnitude quake hit tourist destination of Lombok Island in central Indonesia, an official said on Monday.

The jolt destroyed thousands of houses and buildings, forcing thousands of people to flee homes and take shelters, spokesman of the National Agency for Disaster Management Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said.

The impact of Sunday's powerful quake extended on Monday as a rescue for tourists in three small islands is underway, said the official.

"The impact of the quake is looked to extend further as risks assessment persists," he told Xinhua in a text message.

Lombok Utara district suffers the most as it is situated the nearest to the quake center, the official added.

About 1,000 holiday makers, including foreign and domestic visitors, who have been trapped in three small popular destinations, located near main Lombok island, have been rescued, Sutopo added.

Poor access of communication still hampers emergency relief efforts, he said.

Meanwhile, aids are flowing into the affected-areas, including foods, drugs, and medical personnel, the spokesman said.

In order to support relief efforts, two helicopters and communication devices were sent to the scene along with one navy hospital ship, he added.

To monitor the condition and presence of the tourists, a crisis center was established by the Ministry of Tourism, said Sutopo.

The jolts caused minor damages in both Lombok international airport in Lombok Island and Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali Island, notwithstanding, they did not halt the operation, an official of transport ministry Pramintohadi said.

The official, however, cautioned all stakeholders of aviation industry to be alert on the further risks of aftershocks.

"We must remain cautious and all stakeholders of aviation have to step up coordination. Check all flight facilities and its supporting facilities so that the flight can be done safely and well," he told Xinhua in a text message.

The 7.0-magnitude quake struck on Sunday with epicenter at 18 km northwest Lombok Timur district and shallow of 15 km under-earth, the temblor was also felt strongly in nearby Bali Island and East Java province, according to the meteorology and geophysics agency.

The Sunday's quake worsened the downside risks of another strong quake of 6.4-magnitude striking Lombok Island on July 29, that left 17 people dead, 365 others injured, 8,871 people displaced and 14,940 houses and building damaged, according to the disaster agency.

Indonesia is prone to quake as it lies on a vulnerable quake-hit zone so called "the Pacific Ring of Fire."
Cecile Kyenge, who heads the EU observer mission in Mali (pictured 2013), says it would be "desirable" for authorities in Mali to ensure that all voters are able to vote in the run-off

After the first round of Mali's presidential election was marred by violence and accusations of fraud, EU observers on Tuesday called for more transparency and access during Sunday's run-off.

It came as a thousand people gathered in the capital of Bamako to condemn alleged fraud in the July 29 poll.

"With the second round approaching, it would be desirable for authorities to take all necessary measures to guarantee all voters can exercise their right to vote," said Cecile Kyenge, who heads the EU observer mission in Mali.

Kyenge welcomed the publication of a detailed list of 871 polling stations where voting could not be held in the first round, due to outbreaks of violence.

The incidents affected nearly a quarter of a million people, mostly in the Mopti and Segou regions in the centre and the northern Timbuktu region.

Keita won 41.42 percent of votes in the first stage of the poll in the sprawling west African nation, easily ahead of opposition leader Soumaila Cisse, in second place with 17.8 percent.

But mounting accusations of fraud and ballot box stuffing marred the days following the poll.

- 'No united front' -

Seventeen opposition candidates together held a meeting in the capital with around a thousand supporters to denounce such irregularities.

Malian opposition leader and presidential candidate Soumaila Cisse, pictured August 6, 2018, says they will not accept the "dictatorship of fraud" in Mali

"We will not accept the dictatorship of fraud in our country," Soumaila Cisse said, adding that the country had suffered too much in the past five years.

But the Malian opposition is less united than it appears to be, according to political analyst Souleymane Drabo.

"There is a united front to contest the results, but there is no united front to give votes to Soumaila Cisse," Drabo told AFP.

One major opposition contender, Cheick Modibo Diarra, who gathered over 7 percent of the vote, was notably absent from the meeting.

In the name of "transparency," the EU mission also repeated its call for the government to "publish the results of the first round of voting, polling station by polling station, as soon as possible," and to do the same after Sunday's runoff.

European officials also urged authorities to "not limit freedom of expression" and to "guarantee unconstrained access to internet and social network."

Last week, Renouveau FM radio, where wildly popular opposition activist Ras Bath has a weekly show, was closed.

Meanwhile, social networks Twitter and Whatsapp were inaccessible on voting day for many, according to NGO Internet Without Borders.

The constitutional court is due to officially announce the first-round results on Wednesday.

Mali, considered a linchpin state in west Africa's troubled Sahel region, is one of the world's poorest countries, with most people living on less than $2 a day.
Tesla boss Elon Musk, who has previously discussed possibly taking Tesla private, has had bumpy relations with Wall Street, often dismissing questions over financing

Controversial Tesla chief executive Elon Musk said Tuesday he was considering taking the electric carmaker private, sending shares sharply higher in anticipation of a big premium.

Going private would take the company out of the quarterly reporting cycle, making it "free from as much distraction and short-term thinking as possible," Musk said in a blog post.

Musk, who has depicted the quest to build up no-emissions electric cars as an environmental mission, said he viewed going private as "the best path forward," but that a final decision had not been made and ultimately rested on shareholder support.

Shares finished up 11 percent at $379.57 after being suspended for about 90 minutes following a series of Musk statements on Twitter in which he initially floated the idea of going private.

Musk's first tweet said funding was "secured" for a transaction that could value the company at $420 a share.

At that price, the Tesla transaction would be worth more than $71 billion.

A leveraged buyout of this size -- one using debt -- would eclipse by a wide margin the prior record, the purchase for utility TXU Corp. in 2007 by a consortium that included KKR and TPG for $44 billion.

Gains following the tweet added to upward movement on the stock after the Financial Times reported that a Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund had built a stake of between three and five percent in the company.

Musk's tweet comes as Tesla faces continued pressure to ramp up output of the Model 3 sedan, its first effort at the middle market.

The billionaire Musk, who owns about 20 percent of the company, said a transaction would not "substantially" alter his stake and that he expected to continue to lead the company if it occurred.

- Polarizing figure -

Musk has previously discussed possibly going private as a means to realize long-term growth and accomplish a goal that some Tesla acolytes embrace with near-messianic passion.

Supporters of Musk and the company view him as a visionary akin to Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, while critics have likened him to a "Wizard of Oz" like figure who has yet to turn a profit.

Tesla shareholder Quint Tatro, managing director of Joule Financial, praised the idea as "brilliant," adding that "Musk is tired of dealing with all the challenges of being 'public.'"

The South African-born Tesla chief has courted plenty of controversy.

Last month, he apologized for calling British caver Vernon Unsworth, who helped rescue 12 Thai boys from a cave, a "pedo" -- short for pedophile -- after Unsworth spoke dismissively of the Tesla chief's proposal for bringing the boys to safety.

He has also had a prickly relationship with Wall Street, apologizing last week to equity analysts after refusing to answer questions on a May investor call.

Musk's approach to a possible go-private transaction also went against the grain of many companies that release major news in non-trading hours.

By contrast, Musk made the initial comment on Twitter and then embellished on the remarks in a series of responses to users on the platform.

In its August 1 earnings release, Tesla confirmed output was on track after missing earlier benchmarks as it reported a bigger-than-expected loss.

Musk is no stranger to controversy

Shares have rallied strongly since those earnings, but Musk has continued to show a short fuse towards critics, lambasting "short" sellers of Tesla shares -- those who take bets that the stock will fall in value.

Following the company's surge after last week's earnings, Musk took aim again at a short-seller in a reported short YouTube video that likened these investors to Hitler's last days.

Musk amplified this point Tuesday, saying on Twitter that going private "will be way smoother," end "negative propaganda from shorts" and benefit shareholders.

"Am super appreciative of Tesla shareholders," Musk said. "Will ensure their prosperity in any scenario."
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US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said Tuesday he "absolutely" agrees the Pentagon should create a new command dedicated to space, but he stopped short of fully endorsing President Donald Trump's order to create a whole new Space Force.

Trump in June ordered the creation of Space Force, which he said would become the sixth branch of the US military, arguing the Pentagon needs a dedicated service to tackle vulnerabilities in space and assert US dominance in orbit.

The Pentagon is expected this week to present Congress with proposals for how it will carry out Trump's order.

According to a draft copy of that report, obtained by the Defense One military news site, Pentagon planners are outlining a series of steps towards a Space Force.

Though the creation of a new branch of the military requires congressional approval, the Pentagon is proposing to create a new "combatant command," called US Space Command, that would be dedicated to space.

The vast US military divides the globe into combatant commands, such as Central Command in the Middle East or Indo-Pacific Command in Asia, and so a new Space Command would have the same profile as these.

A Pentagon reporter asked Mattis if he supported the creation of Space Command.

"Yes, absolutely," Mattis said.

"We need to address space as a developing, war-fighting domain and a combatant command is certainly one thing that we can establish."

Mattis last year voiced skepticism on the need to create a separate Space Force.

In a letter to a US congressman, he said he did "not wish to add a separate service that would likely present a narrower and even parochial approach to space operations," adding it would create extra bureaucracy and cost for the Pentagon.

Mattis said Tuesday the Pentagon is "in complete alignment with the president's concern about protecting our assets in space," but he did not elaborate on whether he supported building a whole new branch of the military.

"We're working it up. What that actual organization will look like -- it will be fit for purpose is what I can assure you. But I don't have all the final answers yet. We're still putting that together," he said.

The effort to build a new military branch for space highlights the critical dependence the armed services have on space for many aspects of warfighting.

GPS systems are built into many military technologies and a network of sensors and satellites floating in orbit provide continual and vital intelligence.
President Trump's one-time personal lawyer Michael Cohen is reportedly being investigated for possible tax fraud

President Donald Trump's former personal lawyer Michael Cohen, who is under federal investigation in New York, is being investigated for possible tax fraud, The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday.

Federal authorities are examining whether Cohen's income -- potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars -- from his taxi medallion business was under-reported in federal tax returns, the newspaper said.

The report also alleged that prosecutors were investigating whether employees of Sterling National Bank improperly allowed Cohen to obtain loans for his taxi business even though he failed to provide adequate documentation.

Convictions for tax and bank fraud carry potentially hefty prison terms, which the newspaper said could put additional pressure on Cohen to cooperate with prosecutors in the event that he is charged.

The US attorney's office in Manhattan declined to comment.

"In light of the ongoing investigation, I am unable to respond," said Cohen's lawyer, Lanny Davis.

Speculation has mounted in US media that Cohen, who once declared he was so loyal he would "take a bullet for the president," is willing to cooperate with prosecutors and how much Trump has to fear should he do so.

The federal investigation has focused on his business dealings and reportedly whether payments he made violated campaign finance laws.

He was involved in efforts to hush up allegations from a former Playboy model about an affair with Trump and paid $130,000 to porn star Stormy Daniels to silence her own claims of an alleged one-night stand with Trump in 2006.
Secretary of Defense James Mattis hosts an Honor Cordon for Gavin Williamson Secretary of State for Defence of the United Kingdom, at the Pentagon

British Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson insisted Tuesday that Britain's military will not be diminished after it leaves the European Union next year.

"Britain leaving the European Union has no impact in terms of the security and defense of Europe," Williamson said in a speech at the Atlantic Council in Washington.

"Britain is a major global actor. We have always been a tier one military power and we always will be a tier one military power," he added.

Williamson's comments come after Prime Minister Theresa May in June reportedly declined to commit to saying Britain would remain a "tier one" military power in the future, amid ongoing uncertainty about Britain's post-Brexit economy and international relationships.

In a speech largely aimed at convincing American counterparts that Britain remains a dependable partner despite the chaos surrounding Brexit negotiations, Williamson said that leaving the EU provided Britain with an opportunity to "redefine" its place in the world.

"In some ways, the European Union has limited our vision, discouraged us from looking to the horizon," he said.

"Now we are being freed to reach further and aim higher. The UK Is determined to seize these new opportunities."

Williamson then met with US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis at the Pentagon.

Mattis wrote to Williamson this summer urging Britain, which already meets the two percent of GDP spending pledge for NATO members, to kick in more cash or risk being supplanted by France as America's closest military ally in Europe.

Mattis said the letter was "meant as an additive effort in support of our allies."

Some observers in Britain suggested Williamson had solicited the letter to add ammunition to his calls for more defense spending.

Mattis declined to say if Williamson had asked him to write the letter.

"This is the normal collaboration, the normal consultation between allies is what this is," he said.
A whirlwind of ash rises from a ridge at a fire near Lake Elsinore in southern California

Crews battling the biggest wildfire on record in California have made some progress but the weather forecast for the rest of the week is not promising, authorities said Wednesday.

It will remain very hot and windy -- conditions that help fire spread -- until at least Saturday evening, the National Weather Service office in the state capital Sacramento said late Tuesday.

"Smoke and haze will continue to impact #norcal. Warmer temperatures and increasing fire weather concerns late this week," the agency said.

The raging Mendocino Complex fire, comprising twin blazes in the state's north, has now ravaged just over 300,000 acres (120,000 hectares) -- approximately the size of Los Angeles -- in less than two weeks. On Monday it became California's largest wildfire since record-keeping began a century ago.

Some 14,000 firefighters, including reinforcements from as far away as Australia and New Zealand, are combating the firestorm which remains 47 percent contained, the state agency Calfire said in an update at 1400 GMT. That's up from 34 percent 12 hours earlier.

The River Fire of the Mendocino Complex is 81 percent contained, having burned 48,920 acres. But its partner blaze, the Ranch Fire, has grown to 251,000 acres and is just 46 percent contained.

A shift in the weather can make a big difference for firefighting crews.

"Weather was a big factor today and due to the winds aloft covering the fire area in smoke, it caused lower than predicted temperatures," Calfire said Tuesday evening.

"The temperature decrease allowed crews to continue valuable work to contain the fire perimeter edge, slowing fire growth," it added. Crews used the lower temperatures to increase containment lines.

Overall, the Mendocino Complex fire has destroyed at least 221 structures, 116 of them residences. More than 10,000 other structures are threatened, according to CalFire.

The Ranch fire, which poses the biggest challenge, has swept across natural barriers like rivers, and a ditch dug with earth-moving machinery.

Helicopters and airplanes, including two massive DC-10s and a 747 jumbo jet, have supported firefighters by dousing the flames with water.

Two people have died in that inferno alone, taking to 11 the number of people killed by major fires that are becoming something of a constant in the state.

- Fires in 11 states -

Map locating the areas burnt by the 'Mendocino Complex' which has become the largest in California's history, destroying an area the size of Los Angeles

The Carr Fire to the north, near the town of Redding, has meanwhile engulfed more than 173,000 acres since igniting July 23, killing seven people so far.

As of early Wednesday firefighters had managed to get it 47 percent contained.

Another major fire, Ferguson, has left two people dead and forced the closure of part of the Yosemite National Park. It is currently 43 percent contained.

On Monday alone, 127 wildfires were burning on 1.6 million acres of land in 11 states, the National Interagency Fire Center said.

In California tens of thousands of people have been forced from their homes over the past month although some have now been allowed to go back.

The Mendocino Complex is the second fire to break records in California in as many years, following the Thomas Fire in December 2017 that destroyed 281,893 acres.

An air tanker drops retardant on the Ranch Fire, part of the Mendocino Complex Fire, the biggest on record in California

In the state's south near San Diego, hundreds of personnel have deployed to tackle the fast-moving Holy Fire in the Cleveland National Forest.

On Monday, the Pentagon said it would send 200 soldiers to assist firefighters in fending off the flames across western states.

About 1,000 National Guard personnel are supporting wildfire operations in California, with another 450 in Oregon and 170 in Washington state, it added.
US President Donald Trump and Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani have once again ratcheted up the rhetoric as US sanctions on Tehran are reimposed

US President Donald Trump warned the world Tuesday against doing business with Iran as Washington reimposed "the most biting sanctions ever" on the Islamic republic, triggering a mix of anger, fear and defiance in Tehran.

Trump's May withdrawal from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with Tehran had spooked investors and triggered a run on the Iranian rial long before the punishing sanctions went back into force.

The newly reimposed sanctions, which target access to US banknotes and key industries such as cars and carpets, were unlikely to cause immediate economic turmoil.

Iran's markets were actually relatively buoyant, with the rial strengthening by 20 percent since Sunday after the government relaxed foreign exchange rules and allowed unlimited, tax-free gold and currency imports.

But the second tranche of sanctions, which kicks in on November 5 and targets Iran's vital oil sector, could be far more damaging -- even if several key customers such as China, India and Turkey have refused to significantly cut their purchases.

"The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level," Trump wrote on Twitter.

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less."

European governments -- who signed the Iran nuclear deal along with Washington -- are infuriated by Trump's strategy that has prompted many of their large firms to leave Iran for fear of US penalties.

Within hours of the sanctions taking effect, German carmaker Daimler said it had "suspended our already limited activities in Iran in accordance with the applicable sanctions."

Trump said Monday that he was open to new talks to reach a "more comprehensive deal" with Iran.

"We want to see a much broader retreat by Iran from their support for international terrorism, their belligerent military activity in the Middle East and their ballistic missile, nuclear-related programs," National Security Advisor John Bolton told Fox News.

"There's a lot going on here that Iran needs to be held accountable for."

A mural in Tehran shows a US flag with skulls instead of stars

But Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has dismissed the idea of talks while sanctions are in effect, and accused America of waging "psychological warfare."

In Tehran, residents were on edge.

"I feel like my life is being destroyed," said one construction worker on the streets of the capital. "I can't afford to buy food, pay the rent."

- 'Not got this right' -

The return of US sanctions left some of Washington's partners unimpressed.

British Foreign Office Minister Alastair Burt said that the "Americans have really not got this right."

The nuclear deal was important "not only to the region's security but the world's security," he told the BBC.

Russia's foreign ministry said it was "deeply disappointed" by the return of sanctions, adding that it would do "everything necessary" to save the 2015 nuclear deal.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters that the global reaction to Trump's move showed that the US was diplomatically isolated.

- 'Poison cup' -

Key economic statistics about Iran

Most Iranians see US hostility as a basic fact of life, so their frustration is largely directed at their own leaders for not handling the situation better.

"Prices are rising again, but the reason is government corruption, not US sanctions," said Ali, a 35-year-old decorator in Tehran.

Long-running discontent over high prices, unemployment, water shortages and the lack of political reform has sparked numerous protests over the past week, though verifiable information is scarce due to heavy reporting restrictions.

Many hope and believe that Iran's leaders will "drink the poison cup" and negotiate with the US eventually.

There have been rumours that Trump and Rouhani could meet in New York in September on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly -- though Rouhani reportedly rejected US overtures for a meeting at last year's event.

Iran's regional rivals Israel and Saudi Arabia have welcomed the tough new US policy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the renewed sanctions as "an important moment for Israel, for the US, for the region, for the whole world."

Iran's currency has lost around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the nuclear pact, but has surged since Sunday, following the arrest of the central bank's currency chief and new plans being announced.

The new rules mean foreign exchange bureaus will reopen after an attempt to fix the value of the rial in April backfired spectacularly, with corrupt traders making a fortune out of a mushrooming black market.

Ali Vaez, Iran project director for the International Crisis Group, told AFP that the sanctions would inflict "significant harm" on the Iranian economy.

"But this is not the first time that the Iranian leadership is dealing with sanctions," Vaez said.

"I doubt that in the next two years we would see the collapse of the government or the regime in Tehran."
University students' leader and member of the Civil Society Alliance Lesther Aleman, speaks during an interview with AFP in Managua on August 3, 2018

The Nicaraguan government on Tuesday accused the opposition of "coup-driven terrorism" and blamed it for 197 deaths that have occurred in nearly four months of protests against President Daniel Ortega.

Rosario Murillo, who is Ortega's wife, vice president and chief government spokeswoman, made the allegation to state media.

She vowed that protesters and opposition sympathizers who have been convicted over the unrest, would "pay for their crimes."

The 197 death toll advanced by Ortega's government is far lower than the toll given by human rights organizations in the country.

One such prominent organization, the Nicaraguan Center for Human Rights, says 317 people have been killed and at least 2,000 wounded in brutal repression by Ortega's security forces against the protests.

"Those figures are being manipulated" to damage the image of Nicaragua's government, Murillo asserted.

She counted 22 police officers killed, but just five university student protesters.

More than 130 opposition figures have been arrested and charged with terrorism offenses under a new law that carries penalities of up to 20 years in prison.

- Protesters determined -

Ortega, in a flurry of interviews with foreign media late last month, asserted that the unrest was over and the country was "normalizing." He said the turmoil was fomented by the United States.

But opposition figures have said they will keep up the protests to demand Ortega and Murillo step down.

They are determined to see "a free Nicaragua," a student opposition leader, Lesther Aleman, 20, told AFP in an interview this week.

Another university student in Managua who would not be identified for fear of official reprisal, said: "Many of our comrades have been arrested. We know they are being tortured, that they are being held without eating."

Every day, dozens of Nicaraguans flee over the southern border to Costa Rica to escape what they say is persecution by Ortega's government and by loyalist paramilitaries.

Murillo labeled the protesters "coup-mongers, terrorists, right-wingers, satanists, vandals, criminals."

The United States has repeatedly warned Nicaragua over the violence and repression.

On Tuesday, the US deputy assistant secretary of state for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Francisco Palmieri, tweeted: "We denounce continued arbitrary detentions and call for the release of all individuals arrested for peacefully expressing opposition to the Ortega government."
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Latest on U.S. sanctions on Iran (all times local):

3:45 p.m.

President Donald Trump is re-imposing many sanctions on Iran to exert "maximum economic pressure."

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo , right, speaks to European Union's Foreign Policy Chief Federica Mogherini ahead of the at the 25th ASEAN Regional Forum Retreat in Singapore, Saturday, Aug. 4, 2018. (AP Photo/Joseph Nair)

The move comes three months after he pulled the United States out of the Iran nuclear deal, calling it "horrible" and "one-sided."

Trump warns that other nations who don't wind down their economic ties to Iran "risk severe consequences."

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says renewed U.S. sanctions on Iran will be rigorously enforced and remain in place until the Iranian government radically changes course.

European foreign ministers say they "deeply regret" the decision. They say the 2015 Iran nuclear deal "is working and delivering on its goal" of limiting Iran's nuclear program.

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11:05 a.m.

President Donald Trump is signing an executive order reimposing many sanctions on Iran, three months after pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal. He says the U.S. policy is to levy "maximum economic pressure" on the country.

In a statement Monday, Trump restated his opinion that the 2015 international accord to freeze Iran's nuclear program in return for lifting sanctions was a "horrible, one-sided deal." He says it left the Iranian government flush with cash to use to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

Trump says the U.S. is urging all nations "to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation."

Trump warned that those that don't wind down their ties to the Iranian economy "risk severe consequences" under the reimposed sanctions.

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10:30 a.m.

A senior administration official says the United States is "not particularly concerned" by EU efforts to protect European firms from the re-imposition of sanctions on Iran.

The official was not authorized to discuss the matter by name and spoke Monday on condition of anonymity.

The European Union issued a "blocking statute" Monday to protect European businesses from the impact of sanctions set to return Monday at midnight.

The official says the U.S. will use the sanctions aggressively and cited Iran's severe economic downturn this year as evidence the sanctions would prove to be effective despite opposition from the EU, China and Russia.

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7:35 a.m.

European foreign ministers say they "deeply regret" the re-imposition of U.S. sanctions on Iran.

A statement Monday by European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and foreign ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom insisted that the 2015 Iran nuclear deal "is working and delivering on its goal" of limiting Iran's nuclear program.

President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the deal, which had lifted international sanctions in exchange for Iran agreeing to restrictions on its nuclear program. U.N. inspectors said Iran was complying with the deal, but Trump argued that it didn't do enough.

But the European ministers said the Iran deal is "crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world."

The first set of reinstated U.S. sanctions goes into effect Monday. Those target Iran's automotive sector as well as gold and other metals.

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12:31 a.m.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says the renewed sanctions against Iran are an important pillar in U.S. policy toward the Tehran government.

Pompeo says the sanctions will be rigorously enforced and remain in place until the Iranian government radically changes course.

Those sanctions go back in place on Monday.

Pompeo told reporters on his way home from a three-nation trip to South East Asia that the Trump administration is open to looking beyond sanctions but adds that would "require enormous change" from Tehran.

He said President Donald Trump is intent on getting Iran to "behave like a normal country."

U.S. sanctions had been eased by the Obama administration under the terms of the landmark 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Trump decided in May to withdraw from the accord.
BEIJING, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- China has called on South Sudan's conflicting parties to implement a peace deal and resume peace and stability in the country at an early date, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Monday.

A peace deal on power-sharing and security arrangements was signed on Sunday in the Sudanese capital Khartoum by South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, major opposition leader Riek Machar, and representatives of other opposition factions.

In response, spokesperson Hua Chunying said China welcomed and appreciated the peace deal, which marked an important step towards peace in South Sudan.

"We call on South Sudan's conflicting parties to implement the peace deal and restore peace and stability at an early date," Hua said, adding that China would as always provide support and assistance to the peace process in South Sudan.
Rosie O'Donnell and cast members from some of Broadway's biggest musicals led a sing-along protest against President Donald Trump outside the White House.

The stars lent their voices to the latest protest against Trump's presidency on Monday night, singing show tunes and 'America the Beautiful' next to letters spelling 'TREASON' in front of the mansion in Washington DC.

The presence of O'Donnell, 56, lent star quality to the series of protests outside the White House, where resisters to Trump's presidency have gathered for more than three straight weeks of rowdy nightly demonstrations.

But the president was not at the White House during the protest, vacationing instead at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey.

Rosie O'Donnell and cast members from some of Broadway's biggest musicals led a sing-along protest against President Donald Trump outside the White House

O'Donnell, who has had a decade-long feud with Trump, joined about 50 singers and musicians in rousing renditions of stage staples including 'Everybody Rejoice,' from 'The Wiz,' and songs from 'Les Miserables' and other productions.

The group also sang a rousing version of 'A Brand New Day' from 'The Wiz.'

Emmy Award winner O'Donnell told the crowd it was important to make sure their voices were heard so that Trump would know that they were not going away.

'We are so thrilled to finally be here at the 'Kremlin annex' on night 22,' the actress told the crowd, which responded with a cheer.

'Let the president know in no uncertain terms that we are alive, awake, and we are woke. We are not going away!'

Emmy Award winner O'Donnell told the crowd it was important to make sure their voices were heard so that Trump would know that they were not going away

O'Donnell, who has had a decade-long feud with Trump, joined about 50 singers and musicians in rousing renditions of stage staples

The trip was organized by Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley, the host and producer of Sirius XM's 'On Broadway.'

The performers included current and former Broadway cast members from Wicked, Hamilton, Phantom of the Opera and other shows.

Jessie Harris, a 16-year-old from Herndon, Virginia, is too young to vote, but she said she came to the White House - draped in a Trump puppet costume - to express her dismay about the administration's actions on immigration.

'I'm upset and angry at the way he's treated people... and I think this is the place to say your grievances and get it all out,' she said.

Broadway performer Kenny Ingram joined Rosie O'Donnell and cast members from Broadway musicals at the protest

Jim Obergefell, the lead plaintiff in the Supreme Court case that resulted in the legalization of gay marriage, speaks at the protest

The trip was organized by Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley, the host and producer of Sirius XM's 'On Broadway'

Several people in the crowd chanted 'Impeach 45!' and 'Lock him up!' Others held signs that read 'The Lyin' King' and 'Traitor to the Planet.'

John Aravosis, who has helped organize the protests, said he was stunned at how the movement has persisted.

'After Helsinki, we saw how disastrous it was going,' and when Democratic strategists suggested on social media that a message could be sent if people gathered en masse outside the president's window, 'we all said, what the hell, let's show up,' Aravosis told AFP.

Kristin Mink, a teacher who confronted former Environmental Protection Agency Director Scott Pruitt at a restaurant in July, spoke at the protest

Local music group, Crank Bruvas, continued the protest outside the White House after Rosie O'Donnell and the other Broadway performers left for New York City

His job approval rating has consistently been underwater since he took office in January 2017.

On Sunday, about three weeks after his widely panned Helsinki summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, his disapproval rating stood at 54 percent, versus 41 percent approval.

Trump has faced mounting criticism over his embrace of Putin, whose government is accused of interfering in the 2016 election, and his verbal attacks on the media and the special prosecutor conducting the Russia investigation.

Rosie O'Donnell arranged for Broadway performers to protest the Trump administration
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) - A train crash into a tour bus that killed four in Mississippi last year stemmed from the railroad and the city failing to improve an unsafe rail crossing, federal safety regulators concluded Tuesday.

The March 2017 crash also injured 38 Texas tourists when their bus got stuck on a steep Biloxi rail crossing and was hit by a CSX Corp. freight train.

The National Transportation Safety Board found that the probable cause of the crash was "the failure of CSX Transportation and the city of Biloxi to coordinate and take action to improve the safety of the Main Street grade crossing, a high profile vertical crossing on which motor vehicles were known to ground frequently."

FILE - In this March 8, 2017, file photograph, debris from the railroad crossing signal litters the north side of the railroad tracks in Biloxi, Miss., where a CSX train hit a casino tour bus the day before, killing four people. Investigators say local Mississippi officials and CSX Corp. were well aware of trouble at the railroad crossing. But that information doesn't appear to have been reflected in a GPS mapping system that led the driver to the Biloxi crossing where 26 other vehicles had snagged on a steep hump in the previous five years. The National Transportation Safety Board is scheduled to meet Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, and release safety recommendations. (John Fitzhugh/The Sun Herald via AP, File)

Meeting in Washington, the NTSB also issued 11 recommendations for preventing future crashes that focus on railroads and governments doing more to evaluate rail crossings that are so steep they pose safety risks.

Biloxi spokesman Vincent Creel said the city would review the findings "to see what additional measures we can take to improve the safety at crossings." However, Creel said, the city doesn't have enough money to rebuild its 29 crossings, all of which are steeper than current road-design guidelines.

CSX spokesman Bryan Tucker said the company is reviewing the NTSB's recommendations.

"As always, we are working with our federal regulatory partners and the communities through which we operate to further enhance the safety of our nation's rail network," Tucker said in a statement.

The board concluded that the tour bus driver's decision to take a scenic route along U.S. 90 and use a commercial GPS mapping system played no role in the accident. Although the GPS system contained information about the high-profile crossing, the driver wouldn't have realized how steep the back side of the crossing was until it was too late, investigators said.

Problems have existed at the Main Street crossing for decades but seem to have become worse after CSX maintenance raised the track elevation in 2014, the NTSB said.

The board recommended that railroads, traffic engineers and regulators develop guidance for when states and localities should ban trucks, buses and other at-risk vehicles from high-profile crossings. Biloxi banned trucks, buses and recreational vehicles from the Main Street and some other crossings after the crash.

The board also recommended that railroad and highway groups develop specific criteria to determine when an existing crossing is so unsafe that it should be rebuilt, closed or have its risks "comprehensively mitigated."

NTSB Chairman Robert Sumwalt said he feared that with railroads, state transportation agencies and local governments all sharing responsibility for rail crossings, it might not be clear who is in charge.

"Every entity might think that a specific hazard is somebody else's responsibility," Sumwalt said.

Board staff members said the current standard warning signs, which show a low-boy trailer striking a railroad track, may be of "negligible" value. Sumwalt suggested drivers of buses and other trucks may not perceive those signs as applying to them.

Findings emphasize better communication, saying the Mississippi Department of Transportation should do more to monitor crossing safety statewide, the city of Biloxi should share records of vehicles getting stuck with the state and railroads should share records of vehicles getting stuck with all states. The NTSB also recommends that railroads and transportation agencies coordinate on any track maintenance with the potential to increase track elevation.

The NTSB also renewed a recommendation that safety briefings be mandatory on all motor coaches. It also recommended that drivers show passengers how to operate emergency exits.

Tour bus driver Louis Ambrose Jr. gave a safety briefing to most riders, but after the Biloxi crash, passengers at the rear of the bus were unaware of an emergency door there and didn't know how to open it. Firefighters cut it open.

Three people who died were evacuating down the front stairs when they were thrown out of the bus and run over by the bus and train. A fourth died of internal bone fractures he experienced while standing in the aisle during the impact.

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Follow Jeff Amy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jeffamy . Read his work at https://www.apnews.com/search/By%20Jeff%20Amy .

FILE - In this March 7, 2017, file photograph, firefighters assist injured passengers after their charter bus collided with a train in Biloxi, Miss. Investigators say local Mississippi officials and CSX Corp. were well aware of trouble at the railroad crossing. But that information doesn't appear to have been reflected in a GPS mapping system that led the driver to the Biloxi crossing where 26 other vehicles had snagged on a steep hump in the previous five years. The National Transportation Safety Board is scheduled to meet Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, and release safety recommendations. (John Fitzhugh/The Sun Herald via AP, File)
GREENFIELD, Mass. (AP) - Four inmates sit silently in the library of the Franklin County House of Correction one summer morning. But these men aren't here to read books.

Under the supervision of a nurse and two corrections officers, they're taking their daily dose of buprenorphine. The drug, often known by the brand name Suboxone, is meant to control their heroin cravings and is commonly smuggled into jails and prisons.

"Suboxone for me is literally a Band-Aid," said inmate George Ballentine, 26, after he completes the carefully regulated ritual that includes crushing up the medication, placing it under the tongue to dissolve for 15 minutes, rinsing and then spitting into a sink. "When you get a cut, what do you do? You put a Band-Aid on until it heals enough to take it off."

In this July 23, 2018, photo, nurse Brian Toia holds tabs of buprenorphine, a drug which controls heroin and opioid cravings, as he prepares to administer the drug, known also by the brand name Suboxone, to selected inmates at the Franklin County Jail in Greenfield, Mass. American correctional institutions are slowly loosening resistance to giving inmates medication for their opioid addiction. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

Scenes like this could be the future at more jails and prisons, as resistance from corrections officials long skeptical of the efficacy and high cost of administering opioid addiction medications appears to be loosening.

Some 300 of the nation's roughly 3,200 or jails and 1,900 prisons now offer some form of addiction medication to select inmates, according U.S. Department of Justice data.

About 290 are offering a relatively new monthly injection of naltrexone known as Vivitrol to inmates shortly before they're released, with many using free samples of the roughly $1,000 injection provided by drugmaker Alkermes, a company spokesman said.

Only about 30 facilities widely offer the two other more proven federally approved medications for opioid addiction treatment - methadone and buprenorphine - but those numbers are growing, said Andrew Klein, a criminal justice analyst who has been tracking the programs.

Correction facilities in Illinois, Ohio, New Jersey and Washington state recently launched buprenorphine programs, joining New York City's Rikers Island, Bernalillo County jail in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and a handful of others that have provided methadone to certain inmates for years, he said.

Franklin County, where 40 percent of its 220 inmates say they've used heroin, is so far the only correctional facility in Massachusetts widely offering buprenorphine. But state lawmakers this week approved legislation requiring medication-assisted opioid treatment at certain jails and prisons.

Neighboring Rhode Island and Vermont are already offering all three opioid addiction medications across its jails and prisons while Connecticut, which provides methadone at five of its facilities, is weighing a similar expansion, as is New York .

And Los Angeles County, with one of the world's largest jail systems, is also preparing to widely offer buprenorphine and methadone.

"Jails are really America's ground zero for the opioid crisis," said Ed Hayes, an assistant superintendent at the Franklin County Sheriff's Office, which oversees the jail. "It's the perfect opportunity to make a public health intervention."

Corrections officials have been slow to embrace addiction medications because many view them as simply substituting reliance on one drug for another. They also want the federal government to reimburse facilities for the costs.

But reluctance is starting to fade with newer medications and more scientific evidence, said Elizabeth Gondles, of the American Correctional Association, a trade organization that accredits jails and prisons.

"We understand this is a public health crisis," she said. "We know what we need to do. We just need the resources."

The legal system could also end up forcing the industry's hand. The American Civil Liberties Union recently sued correctional institutions in Maine and Washington state, arguing they're violating the Americans with Disabilities Act by not providing the medications, and the U.S. Department of Justice has been investigating Massachusetts along similar lines.

Since introducing buprenorphine two years ago, the Franklin County jail has treated roughly 240 inmates at a cost of about $12,500 per inmate per year.

Sheriff Christopher Donelan notes that the county saw a 35 percent drop in opioid overdose deaths from 2016 to last year and suspects the jail program may be at least partly behind it. He is seeking funding for a formal study.

Proponents note there's years of research supporting the approach, including an April study that found Rhode Island's corrections program contributed to a 12 percent reduction in the state's fatal overdoses in the first half of 2017 compared with the same period in 2016.

Much of Franklin County's costs are for staff critical to the program's success, including those screening incoming inmates and others providing behavioral health counselling and post-release case management, said Hayes, the assistant superintendent.

"This is not a magic pill," he said. "It works only when these other elements are in place."

For Ballentine, the Franklin County inmate released soon after taking his daily medication last week, that personal attention was critical.

He had been hospitalized for three overdoses in as many months before his arrest for violating a restraining order and had every intention of using heroin once he got out of jail.

"The staff here decided not to give up on me even when I decided that I wasn't worth it," Ballentine said shortly before being released following his nine-month stint.

With his re-entry case worker at his side, Ballentine immediately checked in with his parole officer, picked up his buprenorphine prescription at a pharmacy and settled into a halfway home near the jail.

A week later, he reports his doctor hopes to soon take him off the medication he'd been on for about two months in jail.

"I feel like I'm ready for it," Ballentine said, citing volunteer work at a soup kitchen and other activities with others in recovery. "I've got backup plan after backup plan. I know it's no guarantee of success, but I'm doing everything possible."

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Follow Philip Marcelo at twitter.com/philmarcelo. His work can be found at https://www.apnews.com/search/philip_marcelo

In this July 23, 2018, photo, several Franklin County Jail inmates seated at right are watched by nurse Brian Toia, left, and a corrections officer after they received their daily doses of buprenorphine, a drug which controls heroin and opioid cravings. American correctional institutions are slowly loosening resistance to giving inmates medication for their opioid addiction. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

In this July 23, 2018, photo, inmate Shawn Coleman receives his daily dose of buprenorphine, a drug which controls heroin and opioid cravings, at the Franklin County Jail in Greenfield, Mass. American correctional institutions are slowly loosening resistance to giving inmates medication for their opioid addiction. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

In this July 23, 2018, photo, inmate Shawn Coleman opens his mouth for search after receiving his daily dose of buprenorphine, a drug which controls heroin and opioid cravings, at the Franklin County Jail in Greenfield, Mass. Since introducing buprenorphine two years ago, the Franklin County jail has treated roughly 240 inmates at a cost of about $12,500 per inmate per year. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

In this July 23, 2018, photo, inmate George Ballentine opens his mouth for search after receiving his daily dose of buprenorphine, a drug which controls heroin and opioid cravings, at the Franklin County Jail in Greenfield, Mass. Franklin County, where 40 percent of its 220 inmates say they've used heroin, is so far the only correctional facility in Massachusetts widely offering buprenorphine. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

In this July 23, 2018, photo, inmate George Ballentine walks out after serving nine months at the Franklin County Jail in Greenfield, Mass. Ballentine, who earlier that morning received his daily dose of buprenorphine, a drug which controls heroin and opioid cravings, headed out to meet with his re-entry case worker. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

In this July 23, 2018, photo, George Ballentine waits for a ride after serving nine months at the Franklin County Jail in Greenfield, Mass. Ballentine, who earlier that morning received his daily dose of buprenorphine, a drug which controls heroin and opioid cravings, planned to meet with his re-entry case worker and his probation officer. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

In this July 23, 2018, photo, George Ballentine shakes hands with his probation officer, Jocelyn Buccaroni, as his re-entry case worker, Jennifer Avery, follows down the steps of Orange District Court in Orange, Mass. While serving his sentence at the Franklin County Jail, Ballentine received a daily dose of buprenorphine to control his heroin and opioid cravings. His doctor hopes to soon take him off the medication he'd been on for his last two months in jail. "I feel like I'm ready for it," Ballentine says, citing volunteer work at a local soup kitchen and other activities with those in recovery. "I've got backup plan after backup plan. I know it's no guarantee of success, but I'm doing everything possible." (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

In this July 23, 2018, photo, newly-released inmate George Ballentine holds his prescription medicine Suboxone outside a pharmacy in Greenfield, Mass. While serving his sentence at the Franklin County Jail, Ballentine received a daily dose of buprenorphine (Suboxone) to control his heroin and opioid cravings. His doctor hopes to soon take him off the medication he'd been on for his last two months in jail. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
Firefighters battle biggest blaze in California history

Firefighters struggled against rugged terrain, high winds and an August heat wave Tuesday to slow the spread of the biggest wildfire ever recorded in California, an inferno that exploded to more than 450 square miles in just 11 days.

The blaze, centered near the community of Upper Lake, about 100 miles north of San Francisco, spread fast because of what officials said was a perfect combination of weather, topography and abundant vegetation turned into highly flammable fuel by years of drought.

The flames were raging in mostly remote areas, and no deaths or serious injuries were reported. But at least 75 homes have been lost, and thousands of people have been forced to flee. The blaze, dubbed the Mendocino Complex, was reported 20 percent contained.

Its rapid growth to an area the size of Los Angeles at the same time firefighters were battling more than a dozen other major blazes around the state fanned fears that 2018 could become the worst wildfire season in California history.

"For whatever reason, fires are burning much more intensely, much more quickly than they were before," said Mark A. Hartwig, president of the California Fire Chiefs Association.

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In stretch of Arizona border, migrant families keep coming

SAN LUIS, Ariz. (AP) - The 3-year-old boy with a bowl haircut and striped shirt silently clung to his father in the back of a U.S. Border Patrol truck.

Their shoes still muddy from crossing the border, the father and son had just been apprehended at a canal near a border fence in Arizona on a muggy night in July. Before the father, son and two older children could make it any farther, a Border Patrol agent intervened and directed them through a large border gate.

The father handed over documents that showed gang members had committed crimes against his family, one of the ways immigrants who seek asylum try to prove their cases. After a wait, he and his children were hauled away in a van to be processed at a Border Patrol station about 20 miles away in Yuma.

The encounter witnessed by The Associated Press illustrates how families are still coming into the U.S. even in the face of daily global headlines about the Trump administration's zero-tolerance immigration policies. The flow of families from Central America is especially pronounced in this overlooked stretch of border in Arizona and California.

The Border Patrol's Yuma Sector has seen a more than 120 percent spike in the number of families and unaccompanied children caught at the border over the last year, surprising many in an area that had been largely quiet and calm for the past decade.

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Manafort lawyer: 'So many lies' Gates can't keep up

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP) - In a blistering back-and forth, Paul Manafort's lawyer suggested Tuesday that the star witness in the former Trump campaign chairman's financial fraud trial has told "so many lies" he can't remember all of them.

Defense lawyer Kevin Downing began his cross-examination of longtime Manafort deputy Rick Gates by pressing him on his own lies to special counsel Robert Mueller's investigators, an extramarital affair and hundreds of thousands of dollars he admitted to embezzling from his former boss.

Downing also ventured into territory both sides had agreed to avoid: discussion of Donald Trump's presidential campaign.

Under questioning, Gates said he may have submitted personal expenses for reimbursement by Trump's inaugural committee, which he helped operate. Downing also asked whether Mueller's investigators had interviewed Gates about his role in the campaign, prompting an objection from prosecutors and a sidebar conference with U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III.

The judge then brought the trial to a standstill late Tuesday afternoon, calling a brief recess. Afterward, Downing dropped the Trump-related line of questioning, moving on to other topics without explanation.

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Remains of unidentified boy found at New Mexico compound

AMALIA, N.M. (AP) - Searchers found the remains of a boy after raiding a makeshift compound last week in search of a missing Georgia child, authorities said Tuesday.

The remains were found Monday during a search in Amalia, near the Colorado border. Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe said. Authorities were awaiting positive identification of the remains.

The search for Abdul-ghani of Georgia led authorities Friday to the squalid compound where they found Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, the father of the missing boy, along with four other adults and 11 children living in filthy conditions.

"We discovered the remains yesterday on Abdul's fourth birthday," Hogrefe said, appearing to fight back tears.

The sheriff said authorities returned to the compound after interviews Friday and Saturday led them to believe the boy might still be on the property.

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Trump going ahead with taxes on $16B in Chinese imports

WASHINGTON (AP) - The Trump administration announced Tuesday that it will go ahead with imposing 25 percent tariffs on an additional $16 billion in Chinese imports.

Customs officials will begin collecting the border tax Aug. 23, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative said. The list is heavy on industrial products such as steam turbines and iron girders.

Tuesday's announcement was not a surprise. In April, the administration had announced plans to slap tariffs on 1,333 Chinese product lines worth $50 billion a year. After receiving public feedback, it cut 515 products from the list in June and added 284. On July 6, the U.S. began taxing the 818 goods, worth $34 billion, remaining from the April list.

In the meantime, it sought public comment on the new items. On Tuesday, the administration said it had decided to go ahead with tariffs on 279 of the 284 items added in June; they're worth about $16 billion a year.

China has been retaliating in kind.

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Tesla CEO drops latest bombshell with $72B buyout proposal

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - Tesla CEO Elon Musk is gearing up to lead a buyout of the electric car maker in a stunning move that would end the maverick company's eight-year history trading on the stock market.

In his typically unorthodox fashion, the eccentric Musk dropped his bombshell on his Twitter account, which he has used as a platform for pranks, vitriol and now for a proposal to pull off one of the biggest buyouts in U.S. history.

Musk got the ball rolling Tuesday after the stock market had already been open more than three hours with a tweet announcing he had secured funding to buy all of Tesla's stock at $420 per share with no further details.

At that price, the buyout would cost nearly $72 billion, based on Tesla's outstanding stock as of July 27, but it's unlikely the deal would cost that much because Musk owns a roughly 20 percent stake in the Palo Alto, California, company. He also said he intends to give Tesla's existing shareholders the option of retaining a stake in the company through a special fund, if they want.

"Am considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured," Musk wrote in his first tweet, following up with "good morning" and a smiley emoji. He later tweeted that the only uncertainty about completing the deal is whether he can gain shareholder approval.

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For God or party? China's Christians face test of faith

NANYANG, China (AP) - The 62-year-old Chinese shopkeeper had waited nearly his entire adult life to see his dream of building a church come true - a brick house with a sunny courtyard and spacious hall with room for 200 believers.

But in March, about a dozen police officers and local officials suddenly showed up at the church on his property and made the frightened congregants disperse. They ordered that the cross, a painting of the Last Supper and Bible verse calligraphy be taken down. And they demanded that all services stop until each person, along with the church itself, was registered with the government, said the shopkeeper, Guo.

Without warning, Guo and his neighbors in China's Christian heartland province of Henan had found themselves on the front lines of an ambitious new effort by the officially atheist ruling Communist Party to dictate - and in some cases displace - the practice of faith in the country.

"I've always prayed for our country's leaders, for our country to get stronger," said Guo, who gave only his last name out of fear of government retribution. "They were never this severe before, not since I started going to church in the 80's. Why are they telling us to stop now?"

Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982.

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Ohio Congress race pits Trump backers against Democrats

WESTERVILLE, Ohio (AP) - President Donald Trump's preferred congressional candidate - and the appeal of Trump's tax cuts - are being tested Tuesday in battleground Ohio in the season's final high-stakes special election.

The Republican president's shadow also loomed over primary contests in four other states, none bigger than Kansas, where he roiled the governor's race by opposing the GOP incumbent on the eve of the election.

The day's races, like dozens before them, pitted the strength of Trump's fiery supporters against the Democratic Party's anti-Trump resistance. The results will help determine the political landscape - and Trump's standing within his own party - just three months before the GOP defends its House and Senate majorities across the nation.

Voters in Ohio and Kansas joined those in Missouri, Michigan and Washington state. But only Ohio will send someone to Congress immediately.

The script for Ohio's special election was somewhat familiar: An experienced Trump loyalist, two-term state Sen. Troy Balderson, was fighting off a strong challenge from a fresh-faced Democrat, 31-year-old county official Danny O'Connor, in a congressional district held by the Republican Party for more than three decades. In an election morning tweet, Trump said Balderson would make a "great congressman."

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A year after deadly Virginia rally, wounds are still raw

Sometimes Alfred Wilson still has to take a moment to collect himself after he pulls open files at the law firm where he works and sees Heather Heyer's handwriting.

"I get choked up and have to gather myself before I talk to the client," said Wilson, who hired Heyer, the 32-year-old paralegal killed nearly a year ago in a car attack during a violent white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

The rally that left Heyer dead and dozens more injured proved to be a watershed moment, both for the racist, fringe "alt-right" movement, and for the city itself. In the year since, many residents like Wilson say the wounds haven't healed. Others say the violence has laid bare divisions over deeper issues of race and economic inequality and what should be done to move forward.

"One of my hugest gripes with last year with the people of this town was that people, mostly white folks, kept saying, 'This isn't Charlottesville,'" said Brenda Brown-Grooms, a local pastor and activist. "I wonder what planet they live on. This is exactly who we are."

A Charlottesville native, born in the segregated basement of the University of Virginia hospital, Brown-Grooms said white supremacy was present in Charlottesville long before the rally and is the "elephant in the room" the city now must deal with.

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'The Bachelorette' and new fiance ready to move forward

NEW YORK (AP) - ABC's "Bachelorette" Becca Kufrin and her new fiance, Garrett Yrigoyen, hope to move forward after controversy.

Shortly after the season premiere, it was discovered that Yrigoyen had liked Instagram posts that mocked transgender people, feminists and Parkland, Florida, shooting survivor David Hogg. He responded quickly by deleting the account and apologizing, describing the likes as "mindless taps."

Yrigoyen, 29, said the hardest part was criticism that Kufrin received.

"I felt like she was getting personally attacked because of my actions," Yrigoyen told The Associated Press in an interview Tuesday. "I'm trying to better myself and realize the mistakes that I've made."

Kufrin, 28, said it was difficult to see the negativity surrounding the man she's in love with while they were keeping their engagement a secret so the show could play out.
NANYANG, China (AP) - The 62-year-old Chinese shopkeeper had waited nearly his entire adult life to see his dream of building a church come true - a brick house with a sunny courtyard and spacious hall with room for 200 believers.

But in March, about a dozen police officers and local officials suddenly showed up at the church on his property and made the frightened congregants disperse. They ordered that the cross, a painting of the Last Supper and Bible verse calligraphy be taken down. And they demanded that all services stop until each person, along with the church itself, was registered with the government, said the shopkeeper, Guo.

Without warning, Guo and his neighbors in China's Christian heartland province of Henan had found themselves on the front lines of an ambitious new effort by the officially atheist ruling Communist Party to dictate - and in some cases displace - the practice of faith in the country.

In this photo taken Monday, June 4, 2018, Chinese calligraphy which reads "All nations belong to the Lord arising to shine" at left and "Jesus's salvation spreads to the whole world" at right are displayed below a crucifix in a house church shut down by authorities near the city of Nanyang in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

"I've always prayed for our country's leaders, for our country to get stronger," said Guo, who gave only his last name out of fear of government retribution. "They were never this severe before, not since I started going to church in the 80's. Why are they telling us to stop now?"

Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982.

The crackdown on Christianity is part of a broader push by Xi to "Sinicize" all the nation's religions by infusing them with "Chinese characteristics" such as loyalty to the Communist Party. Islamic crescents and domes have been stripped from mosques, and a campaign launched to "re-educate" tens of thousands of Uighur Muslims. Tibetan children have been moved from Buddhist temples to schools and banned from religious activities during their summer holidays, state-run media report.

This spring, a five-year plan to "Sinicize" Christianity in particular was introduced, along with new rules on religious affairs. Over the last several months, local governments across the country have shut down hundreds of private Christian "house churches." A statement last week from 47 in Beijing alone said they had faced "unprecedented" harassment since February.

Authorities have also seized Bibles, while major e-commerce retailers JD.com and Taobao pulled them off their sites. Children and party members are banned from churches in some areas, and at least one township has encouraged Christians to replace posters of Jesus with portraits of Xi. Some Christians have resorted to holding services in secret.

A dozen Chinese Protestants interviewed by the Associated Press described gatherings that were raided, interrogations and surveillance, and one pastor said hundreds of his congregants were questioned individually about their faith. Like Guo, the majority requested that their names be partly or fully withheld because they feared punishment from authorities. After reporters visited Henan in June, some interviewees said they were contacted by police or local officials who urged them not to discuss any new measures around Christianity.

The party has long been wary of Christianity because of its affiliation with Western political values. Several Chinese human rights lawyers jailed for their work, including Jiang Tianyong and Li Heping, are outspoken Christians. So too are many Hong Kong pro-democracy activists, not least among them 2014 protest leader Joshua Wong.

"Chinese leaders have always been suspicious of the political challenge or threat that Christianity poses to the Communist regime," said Xi Lian, a scholar of Christianity in China at Duke University. "Under Xi, this fear of Western infiltration has intensified and gained a prominence that we haven't seen for a long time."

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Guo, who keeps a small storefront selling ornate doors in a riverside district, once had eyesight so poor that he could not distinguish the sky from the earth. But after finding God at 27 years old, he made a seemingly miraculous recovery that he attributes to his faith.

For decades, he, like many Christians in China, shuttled from one unregistered house church to another, where folding chairs served as pews and coffee tables as lecterns. Two years ago, he and 10 other Christians pooled their money to erect a permanent church on his property.

They are part of what experts describe as a spiritual awakening in China.

The number of Chinese believers of all faiths has doubled in two decades to an estimated 200 million, by official count, as the hold of the Communist party has weakened. Among them are an estimated 67 million Christians, including Catholics - a number that is expected to swell to become the world's largest Christian population in a matter of decades. This rapid growth has reinvigorated the party's longtime mission to domesticate a religion traditionally aligned with the West.

Historians believe that Christianity was known to China as early as the seventh century, and was later propagated by Jesuit missionaries starting in the 1500s. In recent decades the religion has faced by turns heavy persecution and tacit acceptance.

During the Cultural Revolution, when Mao sought to eradicate all religions, Christians were jailed, tortured and publicly humiliated. But they survived by operating covertly and grew steadily in number after Mao's death in 1976, when a populace disillusioned with the Communist Party began to seek moral guidance elsewhere.

Chinese Christians say the Bible gives them a sense of right versus wrong and the strength to endure in a country where power often trumps justice. While China's rapid growth has brought prosperity to many, others despair at what they see as a deterioration of public morals. The deaths of children in scandals involving tainted infant formula and shoddily-built schools in recent years have led to the sense that modern China was in the midst of an ethical crisis.

"After the 'collapse' of communist ideology, no value system has been in place to fill the spiritual vacuum," said writer Zhang Lijia. "China has witnessed a religious revival in recent decades precisely because of this vacuum and relaxed control."

Officials once largely tolerated the unregistered Protestant house churches that sprang up independent of the official Christian Council, clamping down on some while allowing others to grow. But this year they have taken a tougher approach that relies partly on "thought reform" - a phrase for political indoctrination. Last November, Christian residents of a rural township in southeast Jiangxi province were persuaded to replace posters of the cross and Jesus Christ inside their homes with portraits of Xi, a local official said.

"Through our thought reform, they've voluntarily done it," Qi Yan, a member of the township party committee, told the AP by phone. "The move is aimed at Christian families in poverty, and we educated them to believe in science and not in superstition, making them believe in the party."

The poster campaign appears to symbolize what analysts see as the underlying force driving the change in the party's approach to religion: the ascendance of Xi.

"Xi is a closet Maoist - he is very anxious about thought control," said Willy Lam, a Chinese politics expert at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. "He definitely does not want people to be faithful members of the church, because then people would profess their allegiance to the church rather than to the party, or more exactly, to Xi himself."

Various state and local officials declined repeated requests to comment. But in 2016, Xi explicitly warned against the perceived foreign threats tied to faith, telling a religion conference: "We must resolutely guard against overseas infiltrations via religious means." And in April, the religious affairs department published an article saying that churches must endorse the party's leadership as part of "Sinicization."

"Only Sinicized churches can obtain God's love," the article stated.

The state-backed Chinese Catholic church at recent conferences has also stressed the need to remain independent of the Vatican and to "Sinicize" itself.

Along with "thought reform", the government is cracking down on Christians more aggressively through legal means. In March, a prominent Chinese house church leader with U.S. permanent residency was sentenced to seven years in prison after he built Christian schools in Myanmar. And half a dozen Christians were sentenced last month to up to 13 years in jail for involvement in a "cult," according to U.S.-based Christian non-profit ChinaAid.

The pressure has pushed several dozen pastors and their families to flee to the United States in recent years, ChinaAid says. The wife of one pastor under house arrest left for Midland, Texas about a year ago, after authorities warned that their children might have trouble getting an education in China. She said members of their church in China were barred from being baptized, and even a simple Christmas service was interrupted.

"The government says that we have religious freedom, but really there is no freedom at all," said the pastor's wife, who asked to remain anonymous for her husband's safety. "Many of our Christian brothers and sisters are upset and fearful."

Those who resist pay the price.

After Jin Mingri, a prominent pastor who leads Zion Church in Beijing, refused local authorities' request to install surveillance cameras inside his house church, police individually questioned hundreds of members of the 1,500-person congregation, he said. The congregants faced veiled threats, Jin said, and many were asked to sign a pledge promising to leave Zion, which the government agents called illegal, politically incorrect and a cult. Some people lost their jobs or were evicted from rented apartments because police intimidated their bosses and landlords.

For 11 years, the church has been housed on one floor of an office building, but the property management informed Jin in May that they would have to move out at the end of the summer. Jin said the management admitted to being influenced by external "pressures."

"A lot of our flock are terrified by the pressure that the government is putting on them," he said. "It's painful to think that in our own country's capital, we must pay so dearly just to practice our faith."

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At the epicenter of the drive to control the Christian community in China is Henan, the cradle of Chinese civilization and the entry point for many of the earliest foreign missionaries. Today, the province is one of the most populous in the country and a key part of Xi's fight against poverty, as proclaimed by red banners across acres of peanut farms and oil fields.

Around the time authorities ordered Guo's church to stop congregating in March, his district announced a crackdown on private Christian meeting spots. On a single Sunday morning, the announcement said, 700 religious banners were removed, 200 religious texts seized and 31 illegal Christian gathering places shut down. Officials went door-to-door stripping decorative scrolls bearing the cross from home entrances.

In Zhengzhou, Henan's capital, all that is left of one house church is shattered glass, tangled wires and torn hymnbooks, strewn among the rubble of a knocked-down wall. Pegged to another wall is a single wooden cross, still intact.

The church inside a commercial building had served about 100 believers for years. But in late January, nearly 60 officials from the local religion department and police station appeared without warning. Armed with electric saws, they demolished the church, confiscated Bibles and computers and held a handful of young worshippers - including a 14-year-old girl - at a police station for more than 10 hours, according to a church leader.

The authorities called the church illegal. The church leader said they had brought documentation to the religion department three or four times in an attempt to formally register it, but never received a response. Now, they have ceased to congregate.

The church leader prays that the government will change its mind.

"We support President Xi," he said. "All we ask for is a space for our faith."

That space for Xu Shijuan, a 63-year-old Seventh-Day Adventist, was her living room, where she held house church gatherings for four years. She stopped in March, after a group of men led by a local official ordered her to disband the meeting of about two dozen elderly Christians.

"If you don't heed our orders, the next group to come will be law enforcement," he said, according to Xu. "They will use force to disband you."

Xu readily complied. "The people have dispersed, but our faith has not," she told the AP at her home in Zhengzhou. "God's path cannot be blocked. The more you try to control it, the more it will grow."

Even Protestant churches already registered with the state have not been spared greater restrictions. When reporters visited five such churches in Henan this June, all bore notices at their entrances stating that minors and party members were not allowed inside. A banner above one church door exhorted members to "implement the basic direction of the party's religious work." Another church erected a Chinese flag at the foot of its steps.

Some congregations now sing the national anthem during services, according to a house church pastor named Liu. Another pastor said his government-approved church shut down its Sunday school and cancelled all activities for children after receiving orders in February.

Across Henan, house churches that once hosted gatherings of hundreds have now sealed their doors and split into groups of no more than a handful. Services are announced last-minute and held in different locations each week, often under the cloak of darkness.

For a time, Guo's church did the same. They avoided congregating on Sundays to escape authorities' notice.

But the church members were scared, and the group dwindled to 30. Authorities appealed to Guo to help gather information on his fellow Christians. He was given a form, reviewed by the AP, which asked for churchgoers' names, educational background and addresses, as well as the length of time they had been faithful and whether they were baptized.

The brick house was largely deserted this summer. Around the door frame, tattered red outlines remained of a scroll that once read "God's love is as deep as the sea."

Inside, Guo has refused to remove the cross and other decorations, telling authorities they are within his private property.

Among them, pinned to a wall in the nave, is a bright blue poster that quotes China's constitutional promise of religious freedom.

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AP writer Brian Skoloff contributed to this report from Midland, Texas.

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Follow Yanan Wang on Twitter at https://twitter.com/yananw

In this photo taken Monday, June 4, 2018, a painting of the Last Supper is seen next to posters quoting China's constitution on religious freedom in a house church shut down by authorities near the city of Nanyang in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, a worker jumps from a truck parked in front of a church and the Chinese national flag near the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Sunday, June 3, 2018, Xu Shijuan, a 63-year-old Seventh-Day Adventist sings gospel songs at her home in Zhengzhou in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. For four years, Xu used her living room for house church gatherings. She stopped in March after a group of men led by a local official ordered her to disband the meeting of about two dozen elderly Christians. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018. pastor Jin Minri speaks during an interview at the Zion Church in Beijing, China. After Jin refused local authorities' request to install surveillance cameras inside his house church, police individually questioned hundreds of members of the 1,500-person congregation, he said. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018. pastor Jin Minri speaks during an interview at the Zion Church in Beijing, China. After Jin refused local authorities' request to install surveillance cameras inside his house church, police individually questioned hundreds of members of the 1,500-person congregation, he said. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, a church is seen behind warehouses near the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, a worker looks out from a truck parked in front of a church and the Chinese national flag near the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, residents past by a poster of Chinese President Xi Jinping and part of the slogans which reads "Actively play the leading role of party building and comprehensively implement the plan for poverty alleviation" near Pingdingshan city in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, children play near the entrance of a church with a sign in red and black characters reading "Notice: Minors prohibited from entry" near the town of Lushan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, a resident rides past a slogan which reads "Religious activities should not interfere with social order and order of life" near a church in the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, a woman hangs laundry near a church in the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, a child stands near a slogan that reads "Communist party members cannot take part in religious activities" near a church in the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, a resident walks past a government billboard citing core values of the Communist Party near a church in the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Friday, June 1, 2018, a faded photo of Chinese President Xi Jinping is seen near the Christian poster with the word "Grace" outside a house church near Nanyang in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, a man stands outside the gated entrance near the Chinese character for "Love" above the door of a church near the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Sunday, June 3, 2018, the demolished house church is seen in the city of Zhengzhou in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, a man rides past workers tossing hay outside a church with part of a slogan that reads "Educate the believers with excellent Chinese traditional culture" near the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Saturday, June 2, 2018, a man drives a tricycle past part of the slogans for "Patriotism and Love for the church, Glorifying God and serving human beings" outside a church near the city of Pingdingshan in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Sunday, June 3, 2018, Xu Shijuan, a 63-year-old Seventh-Day Adventist talks about her faith at her home in Zhengzhou in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. For four years, Xu used her living room for house church gatherings. She stopped in March after a group of men led by a local official ordered her to disband the meeting of about two dozen elderly Christians. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Sunday, June 3, 2018, Xu Shijuan, a 63-year-old Seventh-Day Adventist talks about her faith at her home in Zhengzhou in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. For four years, Xu used her living room for house church gatherings. She stopped in March after a group of men led by a local official ordered her to disband the meeting of about two dozen elderly Christians. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this photo taken Sunday, June 3, 2018, Xu Shijuan, a 63-year-old Seventh-Day Adventist walks near a framed image depicting the Last Supper painting in her home in Zhengzhou in central China's Henan province. Under President Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. For four years, Xu used her living room for house church gatherings. She stopped in March after a group of men led by a local official ordered her to disband the meeting of about two dozen elderly Christians. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) - Florida school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz told a detective that a demon in his head - "the evil side" - told him to burn, kill and destroy, and that he thought about going to a park to kill people about a week before 17 people were gunned down at the school, according to a recently released transcript of his interrogation.

During the more than 11 hours of questioning by Broward sheriff's Detective John Curcio, Cruz usually answered in short sentences or nodded yes or no, speaking so softly that the detective repeatedly told him to speak up. Twice when Curcio left the room, Cruz, 19, cursed at himself and said that he wanted to die, he deserved to die.

"You're nothin'," Cruz told himself, followed by cursing.

FILE - In this Friday, Aug. 3, 2018 file photo, school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz arrives at a Broward County courtroom for a hearing in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. A newly released transcript shows Florida school shooting suspect Cruz spat out "kill me" and then cursed as he sat alone in a sheriff's interrogation room just hours after the massacre that left 17 dead. Prosecutors released a redacted transcript of Cruz's post-shooting statement Monday afternoon, Aug. 6. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, Pool, File)

The interrogation will be pored over by prosecutors and defense attorneys if Cruz attempts an insanity defense or for mitigating factors if he is convicted and faces the death penalty. Cruz's attorneys have said he would plead guilty in exchange for a sentence of life without parole.

Prosecutors released the 216-page, heavily redacted transcript of Cruz's post-shooting statement on Monday after a judge ruled last month that nonconfession portions should be made public. The interrogation began about four hours after the Feb. 14 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland and about 2 hours after Cruz was captured as he walked down a nearby street.

The Associated Press and other media had sought the statement's release under Florida's broad public records laws. Cruz's attorneys had wanted it suppressed, saying its disclosure could hinder his right to a fair trial.

Cruz's statements about the shooting are blacked out, but the transcript is otherwise wide-ranging, dealing with the death of Cruz's parents, his penchant for killing animals, his former girlfriend, his brother, guns, suicide attempts and, especially, the voice. He told Curcio the voice appeared after his father died about 15 years ago but got worse after his mother died of pneumonia in November.

Cruz described the voice as a male, about his age, and said the only person he ever told about it was his brother.

Curcio asked what the voice told him.

"Burn. Kill. Destroy," Cruz responded.

"Burn, kill, destroy what?" the detective asked.

"Anything," Cruz responded.

He told Curcio that he had to fight the voice from taking over, that it was always bad. Curcio questioned that, asking how it could always be bad if Cruz had held down a job at a discount store for two years.

"The voice is in here," he said, apparently pointing to his head. "And then it's me. It's just regular me trying to be a good person." Curcio said everyone has a good and bad side.

"Do they really?" Cruz said.

He said the voice tried to get him to shoot people at a park a week earlier. Or maybe it was three. Cruz couldn't remember exactly, but he didn't want to do it. Curcio asked why he didn't.

"I ... I don't know," he said.

Cruz told Curcio he wanted to join the Army to be a Ranger but he failed the written exam "because I was stupid."

Cruz said he bought the AR-15 allegedly used in the shooting a year before because it was "cool looking" and "to feel safe." He said he bought other guns but fired them only twice, both times into the cement floor of his mother's garage.

"It didn't bounce all over hell and creation?" Curcio asked. No, Cruz replied, saying the bullets embedded in the concrete.

Cruz said he tried to kill himself with an over-the-counter pain reliever after his mom died and years earlier had tried to drink himself to death because he was lonely.

"You don't have a lot of friends?" Curcio asked.

"No." Cruz said he goes fishing with the demon.

Curcio told Cruz he doesn't believe the voice exists, but Cruz insisted it was there and said he wanted to see a psychiatrist.

At the end of the interrogation, the detective let Cruz's 18-year-old brother into the room.

"You - your - people think you're a monster now," Zachary Cruz told him.

"A monster?" Cruz responded.

"You're not acting like yourself. Like, why? Like, we've ... this is not who you are. Like, come on. Why did you do this? This is ... don't even laugh at me," Zachary Cruz said.

"I'm sorry, dude," Nikolas Cruz replied.
WASHINGTON (AP) - President Donald Trump is claiming that California's water policy is shortchanging firefighters of water to battle the state's raging wildfires. That's not so, according to wildfire and water experts.

A look at his tweets and the facts behind them:

TRUMP: "California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!" - tweet Sunday.

A helicopter drops water on a burning hillside during the Ranch Fire in Clearlake Oaks, Calif., Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018. (AP Photo/Josh Edelson)

THE FACTS: That's not what state experts say.

"We have plenty of water" for battling the massive blazes burning in hills north of San Francisco, said Scott McLean, a spokesman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The current spate of wildfires happens to be within range of large Northern California lakes and the state's biggest river, McLean said.

Nor is having enough water a problem in battling California wildfires in general. Firefighting aircraft can dip in and out of cattle ponds or other small bodies of water to scoop up water for dropping and spraying on flames. When fires burn in an area that happens to be without ponds, lakes or rivers, state officials typically call in more planes to ferry in water, McLean said.

California's battles over divvying up water in the arid state are unending, but a battle between firefighters and the Pacific Ocean hasn't been one of them, according to Jay Lund, a civil and environmental engineering professor at the University of California, Davis, and a longtime analyst of the state's water wars.

Trump's claim "is so physically impossible, you don't even really want to respond," Lund said.

For one thing, the wildfires are in the hills, far from the Pacific Ocean and from the man-made storage and distribution system that carries water from California's wetter north to the drier, more populated south.

The state's recently ended five-year drought killed millions of trees, leaving them as brittle fuel for wildfires. As Trump alluded to in his tweet, experts have urged state and federal forestry officials to move quickly in clearing swathes of dead forests because of their added fire danger. The dry, hot weather that climate change brings adds to the dried tinder and risk.

"It might have something to do with forest management and the drought. But it has nothing to do with water policy," Lund said.

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TRUMP: "Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water - Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals." - tweet Monday.

THE FACTS: Trump is raising an old dispute in California, the country's top farm state: the competition for water between agricultural and environmental groups, fishermen and others who want more water for wildlife and habitat. But the dispute has little to do with firefighting.

Republican lawmakers in California's agriculture-rich Central Valley complain the state and federal governments allow too much of the state's rainfall and snow melt to flow naturally through rivers and into the Pacific Ocean, instead of being diverted for irrigation.

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Democrats hope to grab a House seat that Republicans have held for decades. A tweet from President Donald Trump could tip a GOP gubernatorial primary in Kansas. Democrats continue to decide how far to the left the party should move. And critical Senate races are coming into focus.

What to watch as voters in five states head to the polls Tuesday:

BATTLEGROUND OHIO

Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach speaks during a press conference in Mission, Kans., after President Donald Trump officially endorsed him for Kansas governor on Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, ahead of the Tuesday primary. (Shelly Yang/The Kansas City Star via AP)

Ohio's 12th Congressional District doesn't normally get this much attention.

But a special election to fill a seat vacated by a longtime Republican congressman is becoming a barometer of where the midterms may be heading. Danny O'Connor, a 31-year-old local election official, appears to be within striking distance of becoming the first Democrat to represent this stretch of central Ohio in decades.

An O'Connor victory would be another strong sign of Democratic enthusiasm as the party pushes to take back control of the House in November. In fact, given how poorly they've fared here in the past, Democrats would likely be encouraged even if they lose by a few percentage points.

O'Connor is facing Republican Troy Balderson, a 57-year-old state senator endorsed by President Donald Trump.

The district reaches from parts of liberal-leaning Franklin County, home to Columbus and The Ohio State University, through suburbs and into small-town Ohio. Trump won there by more than 11 percentage points in 2016 and has pulled out all the stops to keep it in the GOP column, including holding a rally with Balderson over the weekend.

For all the attention - and cash - the race is receiving, the special election is about more than a single House seat up for grabs in a competitive midterm election year. The results could signal where Ohio is trending heading into the next presidential election.

A strong showing by O'Connor would give Democrats hope that they could regain ground they lost in 2016 when Trump dominated the state. A big Balderson victory, however, could help soothe GOP anxiety that Trump's grip on the Midwest could be waning.

TRUMP EFFECT

If Trump's endorsement doesn't carry his preferred candidate across the finish line in Ohio, he'll look to Kansas, where he backed Secretary of State Kris Kobach's bid to become governor.

Kobach is a hard-line conservative who shares the president's views on immigration and echoes his unproven assertions about voter fraud in U.S. elections. He's in a tight race against incumbent Republican Gov. Jeff Colyer and insurance commissioner Ken Selzer among others.

Trump named Kobach to help lead a post-2016 election commission aimed at uncovering voter fraud. The group disbanded this year after finding no evidence of fraud in the presidential election as Trump had claimed after losing the popular vote.

Kobach also is a staunch anti-tax conservative who promises to continue former Gov. Sam Brownback's approach of sweeping tax cuts after his election in 2010. They became unpopular when promises of economic growth didn't materialize but cuts to schools and other public services did.

Colyer, who stepped in for Brownback after Trump named him to an ambassadorship, hails from the more moderate branch of the Kansas GOP that has rolled back some of Brownback's fiscal moves. An incumbent Kansas governor has lost a primary only twice since the state began holding such elections 110 years ago, the last time in 1956.

If Kobach comes out on top, Democrats believe they have an unusual shot at making the general election competitive. But their hopes could be complicated by Greg Orman, a Kansas City-area businessman who submitted petitions Monday with more than 10,000 signatures for what could become the most serious independent run for Kansas governor in decades. If he gets on the ballot and gains tractions, it could come at the expense of Democrats.

DEMOCRATIC IDENTITY BATTLES

Tuesday's primaries will give Democrats another opportunity to work through internal divides between progressives and more mainstream liberals and moderates.

An eastern Kansas district anchored in Kansas City will decide whether to nominate labor lawyer Brent Welder, a former presidential campaign aide to Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, to face Rep. Kevin Yoder in a district that narrowly opted for Hillary Clinton in 2016.

Welder campaigned with Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the democratic socialist who ousted a top Democratic House leader in a New York City primary in June.

In a suburban Detroit district, three mainstream Democrats are viewed as leaders to vie for a GOP-held seat in November: former legislator Tim Greimel, endorsed by Sen. Carl Levin; Suneel Gupta, a tech executive and entrepreneur and younger brother of Dr. Sanjay Gupta of CNN; and Haley Stevens, who ran the Obama administration's auto bailout program.

In the outside lane is Fayrouz Saad, who'd be the first Muslim woman in Congress. She doesn't have Welder's momentum, but she backs single-payer health insurance and other progressive policy ideas, and hopes that her better-funded rivals split most of the votes, allowing her to squeeze through.

In suburban Seattle, three Democrats are vying in a jungle primary for the seat held by Rep. Dave Reichert, who is retiring. That likely means that just one of pediatrician Kim Schrier, attorney Jason Rittereiser, and former federal public-health official Shannon Hader will advance along with Republican state Sen. Dino Rossi.

Ritteresier backs single-payer health care. Shrier boasts support from EMILY'S List and Planned Parenthood. Hader counters with labor endorsements.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee hasn't taken sides in those races, but national Democrats say they are bullish on all three seats regardless of Tuesday's outcome.

FALL RACES COME INTO FOCUS

Two critical races that could determine which party controls the Senate will come into focus Tuesday. Missouri's Claire McCaskill began the cycle presumed to be the most vulnerable Democratic incumbent. Since then, she's smoked her top Republican rival, Attorney General Josh Hawley, in fundraising, but also endured bad headlines about her use of a private jet. Tuesday's election will serve as a measure of enthusiasm for both candidates.

In Michigan, Sen. Debbie Stabenow joins McCaskill among the 10 Senate Democrats facing re-election in states Trump won. Polls suggest she's in a strong position as she awaits her GOP opponent. Among the possibilities: military veteran and business executive John James, who'd join Tim Scott as the second black Republican in the Senate.

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Associated Press writers Thomas Beaumont in Des Moines, Iowa, and Rachel La Corte in Olympia, Washington, contributed to this report.

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Follow Barrow on Twitter at https://twitter.com/BillBarrowAP .

In a Friday, July 31, 2018 photo, Kansas Governor Jeff Colyer arrives with his family to advance vote at Hilltop Learning Center in Overland Park, Kansas. (John Sleezer/The Kansas City Star via AP)

Republican Troy Balderson, a candidate for Ohio's 12th District, joins volunteers at a phone bank in Westerville, Ohio, on Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, a day ahead of a special election for the congressional seat. Balderson, a two-term Republican state senator, is working to retain GOP control of the 12th District. He faces Democrat Danny O'Connor, the Franklin County recorder, whose fundraising outpaced Balderson's during the most recent reporting period by nearly four times. (AP Photo/Julie Carr Smyth)

Democratic congressional candidate Danny O'Connor speaks to Roger Tackett, 71, of Clark County, Ohio, during a campaign event in Columbus, Ohio, on Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, ahead of Tuesday's special election. (AP Photo/Julie Carr Smyth)

Kansas City-area businessman Greg Orman, center, and Sen. John Doll, right, deliver more than 10,000 signatures to the Secretary of State's office in Topeka, Kan., Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, to formalize their campaign for governor. He needs the signatures of 5,000 registered voters to appear on the November ballot. (Thad Allton/The Topeka Capital-Journal via AP)
ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP) - Paul Manafort's longtime deputy told jurors Tuesday how he spent years disguising millions of dollars in foreign income as loans to lower the former Trump campaign chairman's tax bill.

Rick Gates, the government's star witness, recounted how he and Manafort used offshore shell companies and bank accounts in Cyprus to funnel the money, all while concealing the accounts and the income from the IRS.

"In Cyprus, they were documented as loans. In reality, it was basically money moving between accounts," Gates said during his second day of testimony in the financial fraud trial of his former boss.

This courtroom sketch depicts Rick Gates, right, answering questions by prosecutor Greg Andres as he testifies in the trial of Paul Manafort, seated second from left, at the Alexandria Federal Courthouse in Alexandria, Va., Monday, Aug. 6, 2018. U.S. district Judge T.S. Ellis III presides as Manafort attorney's including Kevin Downing, left, Thomas Zehnle, third from left, listen. (Dana Verkouteren via AP)

Prosecutors summoned Gates, described by witnesses as Manafort's "right-hand man," to give jurors the first-hand account of a co-conspirator they say helped Manafort carry out an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and bank fraud scheme.

Manafort's defense attorneys have sought to paint Gates as an embezzler, liar and the instigator of any criminal conduct. They have several times tried to impugn his credibility before the jury.

Gates walked into a packed courtroom a day after he calmly acknowledged having embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort and said the two had committed crimes together by stashing money in foreign bank accounts and falsifying bank loan documents.

Manafort and Gates were the first two people indicted in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into potential ties between Russia and the Trump campaign. But Gates pleaded guilty months later and agreed to cooperate in Mueller's investigation of Manafort, the only American charged by the special counsel to opt for trial instead of a guilty plea.

Gates, who said he has met with the government 20 times ahead of his testimony, is expected to face a bruising cross-examination later Tuesday as defense lawyers try to undercut his credibility and pin the blame on him.

In a reflection of Gates' importance to the prosecution's case, a cart of about a half dozen green-and-white document boxes bearing his name was rolled into the courtroom ahead of his testimony.

The face-off between longtime business associates and former senior members of the Trump campaign drew scores of people who waited in line for hours outside the courthouse and then jammed into both the courtroom and an overflow room that contained a video feed of the proceedings.

In early testimony Tuesday, Gates related his role in setting up offshore bank accounts for Manafort, a complex arrangement that was requested by wealthy and powerful Ukrainian businessmen who bankrolled Manafort's political consulting work in the country.

Gates laid responsibility squarely at Manafort's feet, bolstering the prosecution's case that Manafort was in full control of his finances and directing Gates' actions. He recounted how Manafort negotiated the offshore payment structure in person with Ukrainian oligarchs, and then Gates would then codify the details in writing.

Gates also described to jurors how he repeatedly submitted fake financial documents at Manafort's behest as his former boss became concerned he was paying too much in taxes and, later, that his funds were drying up.

In one note read to the jury, Gates says Manafort wrote "WTF" and "not happy" about tax payments he was going to have to make.

The decision to have Gates implicate himself on the stand in the filing of false bank and mortgage documents was clearly strategic, with prosecutors hoping to take some of the steam out of an aggressive cross-examination.

Gates repeatedly acknowledged his role in deceiving tax preparers, banks and other financial professionals about Manafort's finances.

In one instance, he acknowledged having produced a fake loan forgiveness letter between Manafort's consulting company and a Cypriot entity he controlled.

Prosecutor Greg Andres pointed out that he had created a "loan forgiveness letter between Mr. Manafort and Mr. Manafort."

"Yes," Gates agreed.

During the testimony, Manafort did not stare Gates down as he did on Monday. Instead, he glanced up at his former protege periodically but mostly stared intently at documents displayed for the jury on a screen in front of him. Gates remained focused on Andres and the jury.

When the trial broke for lunch Tuesday, Manafort looked back at his wife, sitting in the front row, smiled and winked at her, followed by a quick shake of his head, seeming to indicate he was unfazed or unbothered by the morning's testimony.

So far, that testimony has provided jurors with a damning account.

Gates has read off the names of more than a dozen shell companies he and Manafort set up in Cyprus, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the United Kingdom to stash the proceeds of Manafort's Ukrainian political consulting work.

He has also told jurors that he and Manafort knew they were committing crimes for years as part of the offshore payment structure. He also described in details how he falsified loan applications and other documents to help Manafort obtain more in bank loans.

In addition to those crimes, Gates has revealed other criminal conduct.

Gates, who is awaiting sentencing, told jurors that he siphoned off the money without Manafort's knowledge by filing false expense reports. He also committed credit card and mortgage fraud, falsified a letter for a colleague involved in an investment deal and made false statements in a deposition at Manafort's direction.

The case against Manafort has nothing to do with either man's work for the Trump campaign and there's been no discussion during the trial about whether the Trump campaign coordinated with Russia - the central question Mueller's team has tried to answer. But Trump has shown interest in the proceedings, tweeting support for Manafort and suggesting he had been treated worse than gangster Al Capone.

U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III, who has clashed with prosecutors as he urged them to hurry up presenting their case, has largely allowed the prosecution to question Gates uninterrupted.

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Associated Press writer Stephen Braun contributed to this report.

FILE - In this Feb. 23, 2018, file photo, Rick Gates leaves federal court in Washington. Paul Manafort's trial opened this week with a display of his opulent lifestyle and testimony about what prosecutors say were years of financial deception. But the most critical moment in the former Trump campaign chairman's financial fraud trial will arrive next week with the testimony of his longtime associate Gates.(AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)

Television cameras stand ready outside the trial of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort at federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Kathleen Manafort, right, wife of Paul Manafort, arrives to attend the trial of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort as it continues in federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Thomas Zehnle, second from right, attorney for Paul Manafort, walks with other members of the defense team to Alexandria Federal Courthouse in Alexandria, Va., Monday, Aug. 6, 2018. Manafort, President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman, is on trial for tax evasion and bank fraud. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)(AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

Kevin Downing, left, and Thomas Zehnle, the attorneys for Paul Manafort, arrive for the trial as it continues in federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
DETROIT (AP) - Michigan businessman John James, a black Iraq War veteran who was endorsed by President Donald Trump, won the Republican nomination Tuesday and will take on Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow this fall.

James, a political newcomer, convincingly defeated buyout firm founder Sandy Pensler in the GOP primary. The two traded barbs over their business records, conservative credentials and Trump, who swung his support behind James more than a week before the election.

Stabenow is seeking a fourth Senate term and has easily fended off past challengers, but Trump's narrow 2016 victory in Michigan has the GOP hopeful it can flip the seat.

Republican U.S. Senate candidate John James greets supporters at a primary night election party in Detroit, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

"Washington has enough career politicians," James said in a news release after his victory. "We need people who have experience getting results. You aren't going to get results from a 43-year career politician. Debbie Stabenow better get ready for the fight of her political life."

James, 37, of Farmington Hills, has been highlighting his business credentials and military service. The West Point graduate flew Apache helicopters in combat and led two platoons during the Iraq War. After being honorably discharged, he joined his father's Detroit-based group of companies: James Group International Inc. He is CEO of Renaissance Global Logistics, which ships supplier parts to auto factories around the world.

James is Michigan's first black Republican nominee for a major statewide office in more than three decades, but he has said he only wants to be assessed on his character.

When Pensler entered the race, he had the financial advantage after loaning his campaign $5 million. But James, who gave his campaign $50,000, has made up ground, raising $3.9 million as of the end of June while securing endorsements from Right to Life, the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the Senate Conservatives Fund. Entering July, he had $1.3 million cash on hand compared to Pensler's $2.3 million. Stabenow, who faces no primary challenger, had $9.6 million in the bank.

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Follow Jeff Karoub on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeffkaroub

Republican U.S. Senate candidate John James smiles at a primary night election party in Detroit, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Republican U.S. Senate candidate John James dances with supporters at a primary night election party in Detroit, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

Republican U.S. Senate candidate John James speaks at a primary night election party in Detroit, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

FILE - In this April 30, 2018, file photo, U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., speaks to reporters after holding a roundtable meeting with veterans in Lansing, Mich. An Iraq War veteran endorsed by the president and an Ivy League-educated buyout specialist are vying Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, for the chance to take on Stabenow in the fall. (AP Photo/David Eggert, File)

FILE - In a Thursday, July 26, 2018, file photo, U.S. Senate Republican candidate Sandy Pensler makes a campaign stop in Detroit. Michigan Republicans' uphill bid to grab hold of a U.S. Senate seat for just the second time in 40 years starts with an increasingly testy primary between two Detroit-area businessmen who are trading barbs over Donald Trump and their own business records. Pensler or John James will advance to face third-term Sen. Debbie Stabenow. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio, File)
Larry Kudlow (File photo)

China announced Friday the imposition of tariffs on $60 billion in US products. Top White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow dismissed China's latest response, saying "I might think the $60 billion is a weak response to our $200." He also warned that China had "better take President Trump seriously."

Kudlow also claimed that the "Chinese economy is lousy, investors are walking out, the currency is falling." Kudlow intended to mean that China could not sustain a trade war, while the US was determined to protract and escalate it. He did admit that "There is a lot they can do to damage our companies in China."

Kudlow sounded like he was talking about an economy like Japan, South Korea or Mexico. But China is the world's top soybean importer, the No.1 market for automobile and telecom products and has the fastest growing internet economy. The Chinese market is key to the survival of many big American companies and American farmers.

The two numbers, $200 billion and $60 billion, don't show an imbalanced interdependent economic relationship, but rather that Washington has lost its mind on trade while China retains its rationality. The US is trying to conclude the trade disputes swiftly, but China is prepared for a protracted war.

The US economy achieved 4.1 percent GDP growth in the second quarter after exhausting measures including tax cuts. Almost all experts think this growth speed is unsustainable. China's economy grew 6.8 percent in the first half of this year, a result of various decelerating measures. Its economy has hit the bottom already.

Massive market potential provides fuel for China's further economic growth. China is bidding farewell to an era of growth heavily dependent on exports. In future, the US economy will depend more on the Chinese market than the other way around, and that is a tendency about which all American elites are aware, including Mr. Kudlow.

A trade war will bring temporary pain to China, and will add more pressure to Beijing during the first round of disputes. However, China will show its resilience in trade and social cohesion as long as the trade war enters a stalemate. Instead of warning China, Kudlow should warn the Trump administration not to underestimate China's determination to fight to the end.

Chinese people really want to avoid a trade war. Considering the unreasonable US demands, a trade war is an act that aims to crush China's economic sovereignty, trying to force China to be a US economic vassal just like Japan accepted the Plaza Accord.

China has to defend its right to development, and we don't fear sacrificing short-term interests. However, the US will bear losses as well. It's a mutual depletion where people in both countries have to pay the same price.

Throughout history, the US arrogantly initiated many wars that eventually ended up hurting itself. Washington's arrogance this time is up against a major power. When others believed that the US was just playing tricks with trade, the White House thought it could strike down China. But the US' ability doesn't match its ambition.

China has time to fight to the end. Time will prove that the US eventually makes a fool of itself.
DETROIT (AP) - Former Michigan state Rep. Rashida Tlaib has won the Democratic nomination to run unopposed for the House seat long held by former Rep. John Conyers, setting her up to become the first Muslim woman elected to Congress.

No Republicans or third-party candidates ran in Tuesday's District 13 primary race, meaning Tlaib is set to win the seat in November's election and begin serving a full two-year term in January. The special primary race to serve the last two months of Conyers' term was still too close to call as of early Wednesday morning, with Tlaib and Detroit City Council President Brenda Jones were neck and neck. The winner of that race will also run unopposed in November's election.

Tlaib, 42, served in the Michigan House from 2009 until 2014. She defeated five other candidates to win the nomination to run for a full term representing the heavily Democratic district, which covers much of Detroit and some of its suburbs.

FILE - In this Thursday, Nov. 6, 2008, file photo, Rashida Tlaib, a Democrat, is photographed outside the Michigan Capitol in Lansing, Mich. In the primary election Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, Democrats pick former Michigan state Rep. Rashida Tlaib to run unopposed for the congressional seat that former Rep. John Conyers held for more than 50 years. Tlaib would be the first Muslim woman in Congress. (AP Photo/Al Goldis, File)

The 89-year-old Conyers was first elected to the House in 1964. He stepped down in December citing health reasons, though several former female staffers had accused him of sexual harassment.

"This is a huge victory for the Arab and Muslim American communities - it's also a huge victory for the city of Detroit," said Sally Howell, director of the Center for Arab American Studies at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. "Rashida Tlaib brings forward the legacy of John Conyers in terms of the groundbreaking role he played in Congress and his commitment to civil rights."

Conyers' seat was among three open House seats in Michigan heading into the primary, including another that the Democrats expect to keep and a Republican-held seat they hope to flip in their push to take control of the chamber.

In addition to Tlaib, Jones and Wild, Conyers' great-nephew, state Sen. Ian Conyers, competed in the special election. Joining them in the race for the full two-year term were former state Rep. Shanelle Jackson and current state Sen. Coleman Young, the son of the late Coleman A. Young, who was elected mayor in 1973 and held the position for 20 years.

Three Democrats were seeking the 9th District seat following the retirement of longtime Rep. Sander Levin, a Democrat who served 18 House terms and is the brother of retired-Democratic Sen. Carl Levin. Among them was Sander Levin's 58-year-old son, Andy Levin, who has never held elected office but who served as director of the state's Energy, Labor and Economic Growth department from 2010-2011.

The other Democrats seeking the seat, which represents parts of Oakland and Macomb counties in southeastern Michigan, were Ellen Lipton and Martin Brook. Lipton is a patent attorney who served in the Michigan House from 2009-2014. Brook served on the Bloomfield Hills School Board from 2005-2010.

The winner will face Republican Candius Stearns and the Green Party's John McDermott in November.

Democrats are hoping to flip the traditionally GOP-leaning 11th House District with the retirement of Republican Rep. David Trott. Five Democrats and five Republicans were vying for the seat, which represents Detroit's affluent northwest suburbs. In 2016, Trump barely won the district, which has been getting more racially and ethnically diverse.

Democrats facing off in the primary included former U.S. Auto Task Force chief of staff Haley Stevens, former Department of Homeland Security official Fayrouz Saad, entrepreneur Suneel Gupta, state Rep. Tim Greimel and Nancy Skinner.

The GOP primary featured businesswoman and 2016 Trump Michigan campaign co-chair Lena Epstein, former state Rep. Rocky Raczkowski, former U.S. Rep. Kerry Bentivolio, Klint Kesto and Mike Kowall.

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Associated Press writer Jeff Karoub contributed to this story.

FILE- In this April 4, 2017, file photo, Rep. John Conyers, D-Mich., speaks during a hearing of the House Judiciary subcommittee on Capitol Hill in Washington. Conyers' congressional seat will remain in a Democrat's hands after Michigan's primary on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. For the first time in more than five decades, though, it won't be his. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)
WASHINGTON (AP) - Be careful what you wish for.

That's the history lesson for Republicans eagerly anticipating Brett Kavanaugh's ascension to the Supreme Court, which could cement conservative control of the court for a generation.

The GOP may ultimately pay a political price.

FILE - In this July 19, 2018, file photo, Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh arrives for a meeting with Sen. Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta, File)

When and how steep? That depends on how momentous the issues and how jolting the decisions, according to legal scholars who've studied the high court's impact on electoral politics.

The past century is replete with cautionary tales for political parties that rejoice when the Supreme Court's ideology turns their way. That track record, coupled with today's intensifying partisanship, suggests that when it comes to high court nomination fights, both sides should be careful what they wish for.

"In a democracy, what matters is winning votes," said Michael Klarman, a Harvard Law School professor who has studied constitutional history. "And you shouldn't trust the courts to win your battles for you, because there's going to be a backlash if they go too far, too fast."

Such words of caution won't have a discernible impact on senators, who have little incentive to abandon their own or their parties' ideological preferences.

"I'll vote to confirm Kavanaugh and I'll take my chances," said No. 2 Senate GOP leader John Cornyn of Texas.

But since Kavanaugh's confirmation could tip the court decisively to the right for years, the past consequences of some such shifts are instructive.

In the 1930s, a conservative Supreme Court knocked down many of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs aimed at hoisting the country out of the Depression. Statutes letting industries and unions set wages and prices, raising farm income and regulating the coal industry were declared unconstitutional, as was a New York minimum wage law.

That helped fuel a 1936 FDR landslide that also gave Democrats 76 Senate and 334 House seats, Election Day majorities neither party has ever matched. The triumph paved the way for congressional control that Democrats didn't relinquish until after World War II.

The Warren Court's liberal decisions of the 1960s helped power Richard Nixon's law-and-order rise to the White House in 1968. Rulings buttressing criminals' rights, like the Miranda vs. Arizona decision requiring authorities to inform arrested people of their rights, provided potent ammunition for Nixon at a time of racial unrest and growing crime rates.

"Some of our courts in their decisions have gone too far in weakening the peace forces as against the criminal forces in this country and we must act to restore that balance," Nixon said in his acceptance speech 50 years ago this week at the Republican national convention in Miami Beach, Florida.

The 1973 Roe v. Wade case legalizing abortion has been backed by strong majorities of Americans but spurred the rise of the anti-abortion movement and helped galvanize political involvement by Christian conservatives. Both remain vital factors in American politics and a driving force for the GOP.

The disconnect between the court's ideological leanings and voters' preferences occurs because justices are appointed for life. With turnover on the bench infrequent, the court's views often lag behind the election results of the presidents and senators who pick them.

"Over the long course of time, the court follows broader political trends," said Thomas Keck, a Syracuse University political scientist who studies the Supreme Court and political movements. "But it doesn't tend to turn as quickly as the elected branches" of government.

Kavanaugh's nomination could be pivotal. He would replace the retiring Anthony Kennedy, who's been the nine-member court's swing vote on issues including same-sex marriage, corporate campaign contributions and gun rights.

Yet Kavanaugh's confirmation wouldn't guarantee that the court would veer firmly rightward because forecasting justices' long-term viewpoints is historically tricky.

Chief Justice Earl Warren, a GOP California governor appointed by President Dwight Eisenhower, steered one of the most liberal courts in history. Anthony Kennedy was appointed by conservative icon President Ronald Reagan but protected abortion rights. Chief Justice John Roberts was selected by President George W. Bush but cast the decisive tally preserving Obama's health care law.

But there will inevitably be numerous opportunities for the court to address politically searing issues.

In its coming term alone, the justices might face cases about special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation of Russian intrusion in the 2016 presidential race, religious liberty and sexual orientation. Future cases could emerge over curtailing Obama's health care statute, revoking protections against deporting young immigrants and curbing abortion rights - issues that galvanize conservative and liberal voters alike.

Joseph Ura, a political scientist at Texas A&M University, says the impact of a sharp, rightward court shift could be felt quickly enough to affect a Trump re-election bid in 2020, if not sooner.

In a 2014 study, Ura used computer modeling to compare five decades of important court decisions to the public mood. He concluded that there is a quick backlash against shifts in the court's ideology that lasts about two years before eroding, followed by a slight, longer-term swing toward the justices' viewpoints.

Ura's guidance to Democrats, should a Kavanaugh confirmation produce high-profile court decisions invalidating liberal programs?

"My advice to them is to campaign on this," he said.
PASADENA, Calif. (AP) - A legal challenge to the Trump administration's planned border wall Tuesday hinged on whether the state of California and environmental groups can even fight such a project in lower courts.

A three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals struggled with a law that gave the Homeland Security secretary broad authority to waive all laws to expedite constructing sections of border wall. The law also restricted some legal challenges to the Supreme Court.

Attorneys for the state and environmental organizations argued that the 2005 law had expired and the court should consider their claims that the federal government overstepped its authority and must comply with environmental laws.

Members of the Center for Biological Diversity and other immigrant advocates protest outside 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals court hearing challenging Trump's border wall Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, in Pasadena, Calif. A federal appeals court will hear arguments by the state of California that the Trump administration overreached by waiving environmental reviews to speed construction of the president's prized border wall with Mexico. At issue Tuesday before a three-judge panel in Pasadena, California, is a 2005 law that gave the Homeland Security secretary broad authority to waive dozens of laws including the National Environmental Policy Act and Endangered Species Act. (AP Photo/Ariel Tu)

At issue before a three-judge panel in Pasadena, California, is a 2005 law that gave the Homeland Security secretary broad authority to waive all legal requirements, including the National Environmental Policy Act, Clean Air Act and Endangered Species Act. Those laws require time-consuming reviews and are subject to prolonged legal challenges that can delay or even derail projects.

The case heard Tuesday is an appeal of a decision by U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel of San Diego, who sided with the administration in February. The president had repeatedly berated Curiel during the 2016 campaign over an unrelated case involving fraud allegations and now-defunct Trump University.

About 15 demonstrators gathered outside the courthouse Tuesday morning chanting, "Stand up, fight back" and carrying signs that said, "No walls in the wild" and "Freedom for immigrants."

California argued that the waiver authority expired in 2008, when Homeland Security satisfied congressional requirements at the time on how much wall to build. It was joined in the appeal by the Center for Biological Diversity, the Sierra Club, Defenders of Wildlife and Animal Legal Defense Fund.

"It was a truncated Congressional debate from 13 years ago," attorney Brian Segee of the Center for Biological Diversity, who did not argue the case, said outside court. "All the discussion was, 'We want to complete the San Diego wall.' Now all that has been translated to 'We have the authority to waive all laws forever and in perpetuity.'"

The administration has issued three waivers in the last year, two to build in parts of California and one in part of New Mexico. President George W. Bush's administration issued the previous five waivers, allowing the government to quickly extend barriers to about one-third of the border.

In California, the government began replacing barriers on a 14-mile (23-kilometer) stretch in San Diego and a 2-mile (3-kilometer) stretch of Calexico. The waivers also cleared the way for it to build eight prototypes in San Diego to guide future designs.

Trump is seeking $25 billion over 10 years for the border wall and other border security technology and has held out the possibility of a government shutdown if Congress doesn't fund one of his signature campaign pledges. The administration received $1.6 billion this year and has requested the same amount in next year's budget, largely to build in Texas' Rio Grande Valley.

Legal challenges to border barriers have failed over the years amid national security concerns. The Congressional Research Service said in a report last year that it saw no legal impediments to construction if deemed appropriate for controlling the border.

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Associated Press Writer Elliot Spagat in San Diego contributed to this report.

FILE - This Oct. 26, 2017 file photo shows prototypes of border walls in San Diego. A federal appeals court will hear arguments by the state of California that the Trump administration overreached by waiving environmental reviews to speed construction of the president's prized border wall with Mexico. At issue Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, before a three-judge panel in Pasadena, Calif., is a 2005 law that gave the Homeland Security secretary broad authority to waive dozens of laws including the National Environmental Policy Act and Endangered Species Act. (AP Photo/Elliott Spagat, File)

FILE - This undated photo provided by the U.S. District Court shows Judge Gonzalo Curiel. A federal appeals court will hear arguments Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, by the state of California and advocacy groups who contend the Trump administration overreached by waiving environmental reviews to speed construction of the president's prized border wall with Mexico. California is appealing a decision by U.S. District Judge Curiel of San Diego, who sided with the administration in Feb. 2018. (U.S. District Court via AP, File)
Firefighters struggled against rugged terrain, high winds and an August heat wave Tuesday to slow the spread of the biggest wildfire ever recorded in California, an inferno that exploded to be nearly the size of Los Angeles in just 11 days.

The 450-square-mile (1,165-square-kilometer) blaze, centered near the community of Upper Lake, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) north of San Francisco, spread fast because of what officials said was a perfect combination of weather, topography and abundant vegetation turned into highly flammable fuel by years of drought.

Firefighting efforts were also initially hampered by stretched resources, said the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, also known as Cal Fire.

Crystal Easter uses a pot of water to put out spot fires around her home, as her neighbor's home burns to the ground in the background, Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, in Spring Valley, Calif. The Ranch Fire spotted 200 yards across the valley, burning two homes in Spring Valley. (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat via AP)

When the fire started July 27, thousands of firefighters were hundreds of miles north battling a massive blaze that spread into the city of Redding, destroying more than 1,000 homes, in addition to a dozen other major blazes.

A few days after the Upper Lake fire started, Cal Fire Battalion Chief John Messina told a community meeting that with so many fires already raging in California, "resources are already committed" so officials were forced to prioritize public safety and private property.

"After those two things are addressed then we'll go after the pieces of fire that are in remote areas," Messina said. "Typically, we'd go at all at once. There is just not the resources for that."

The flames were raging in mostly remote areas, and no deaths or serious injuries were reported. But at least 75 homes have been lost, and thousands of people have been forced to flee. The blaze, dubbed the Mendocino Complex, was reported 20 percent contained on Tuesday.

Its rapid growth at the same time firefighters were battling more than a dozen other major blazes around the state fanned fears that 2018 could become the worst wildfire season in California history.

"For whatever reason, fires are burning much more intensely, much more quickly than they were before," said Mark A. Hartwig, president of the California Fire Chiefs Association.

About 3,900 firefighters, including a crew of 40 volunteers from New Zealand, were battling the blaze, contending with temperatures in the high 90s and winds gusting to 25 mph (40 kph).

The heavily forested area of myriad canyons where the fire is spreading has few roads or natural barriers that can serve as firebreaks or offer safe havens for firefighters to battle the flames head on, Cal Fire Battalion Chief Jonathan Cox said.

So firefighters instead fell back to natural barriers such as streams or used bulldozers to cut fire lines, but the flames were moving so fast in spots that they blew past, forcing firefighters to retreat, Cox said.

"There's no way you're going to stop that fire," said Kyle Coleman, 28, who returned to his childhood home last week to help his father try - in vain, it turned out - to protect it. "A big wall of flames came over the mountain ... I pretty much got my dad out of there."

In all, 14,000 firefighters were battling blazes across California, which is seeing earlier, longer and more destructive wildfire seasons because of drought, warmer weather attributed to climate change, and the building of homes deeper into the forests.

"Cal Fire is really an urban firefighter service in the woods," said Arizona State University professor Stephen Pyne, a wildfire management expert.

The Mendocino Complex is actually two blazes burning so close together that authorities are attacking them as one, a common practice at Cal Fire. The fires started within an hour of each other about 15 miles (25 kilometers) apart. As of Tuesday, they were separated by just a few miles. Officials have not determined the cause of either one.

In becoming the biggest fire in California history , the Mendocino Complex fire broke a record set just eight months ago. A blaze in Southern California in December killed two people, burned 440 square miles (1,140 square kilometers) and destroyed more than 1,000 buildings.

Crews also gained ground this week against another Northern California wildfire near the city of Redding that was blamed for at least six deaths.

Meanwhile, a blaze burning near Yosemite National Park has been raging for nearly a month but is still just one-third as large as the biggest fire, though dense smoke has closed much of the park to visitors for the past two weeks.

California's firefighting costs have more than tripled from $242 million in the 2013 fiscal year to $773 million in the 2018 fiscal year that ended June 30, according to Cal Fire.

"We're in uncharted territory," Gov. Jerry Brown warned last week. "Since civilization emerged 10,000 years ago, we haven't had this kind of heat condition, and it's going to continue getting worse. That's the way it is."

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Associated Press writers Don Thompson in Sacramento, California and Lorin Eleni Gill and Olga Rodriguez in San Francisco also contributed to this report.

Follow AP's wildfire coverage here: https://apnews.com/tag/Wildfires

Evacuees from Lucerne, from left, Ken Bennett with Ember Reynolds, 8, and Lisa Reynolds watch the sunset as smoke from the Ranch Fire rises into the sky at Austin Park Beach in California's Clearlake with Mount Konocti in the background. (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat via AP)

The Ranch Fire spots out ahead of the main fire in Spring Valley, Calif., Monday, Aug. 6, 2018. (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat via AP)

This satellite image released on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018 provided by NOAA shows the wildfires known as the Mendocino Complex, Calif. Northern California is grappling with the largest wildfire in California history, breaking a record set only months earlier. Experts say this may become the new normal as climate change coupled with the expansion of homes into undeveloped areas creates more intense and devastating blazes. (NOAA via AP)

Crystal Easter, of Spring Valley, comforts her dogs, Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, in Spring Valley, Calif., as they flee a wildfire. This is the second time this year Easter has had to evacuate. (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat via AP)

This Aug. 6, 2018 satellite image provided by DigitalGlobe shows plumes of smoke from the "River Fire" burning vegetation west of Clear Lake, Calif. The dark brown areas at center, encircled by lighter-colored bulldozed trails, shows burned vegetation around the South Cow Mountain recreation area. (Satellite Image 2018 DigitalGlobe, a Maxar company, via AP)

The Ranch Fire spots out ahead of the main fire in Spring Valley, Calif., burning two homes, Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, during the battle to stop the spread of the massive fire in Lake County. (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat via AP)

Arcadia and Santa Rosa firefighters attempt to put out fire on a hay bale stack behind Brassfied Estate Winery in High Valley near Clearlake Oaks, Calif., Monday, Aug. 6, 2018. (Kent Porter/The Press Democrat via AP)

This Monday, Aug. 6, 2018 satellite image provided by DigitalGlobe shows plumes of smoke from the "Ranch Fire" north of Clear Lake, Calif. The dark brown areas show burned vegetation. (Satellite Image 2018 DigitalGlobe, a Maxar company, via AP)
AMALIA, N.M. (AP) - The investigation into a group of starving children found in a desert compound in New Mexico took another dark turn Tuesday, when authorities said they found the remains of a young boy at the squalid property.

It's not yet certain the remains are of Abdul-ghani Wahhaj, who would have turned 4 on Monday.

But Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe indicated the body appeared to be that of a boy similar in age to Abdul-ghani, who suffers from seizures and was reported missing in December after his father said he was taking him to a park in Jonesboro, Georgia, south of Atlanta.

This Aug. 5, 2018 photo shows debris outside the location where people camped near Amalia, N.M. Three women believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Jesse Moya/The Taos News via AP)

The father, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, had told his wife he wanted to perform an exorcism on the child, authorities said.

"We discovered the remains yesterday on Abdul's fourth birthday," Hogrefe said, appearing to fight back tears.

The search for Abdul-ghani led authorities Friday to the compound shielded by old tires, wooden pallets and an earthen wall studded with broken glass. It's located on the outskirts of Amalia, a tiny, remote town near the Colorado border marked by scattered homes, sagebrush and open plains.

Investigators said they found the heavily armed Wahhaj along with four other adults and 11 hungry children living in filthy conditions.

All the adults were arrested on suspicion of child abuse. Wahhaj is also is being detained on a Georgia warrant that seeks his extradition to face a charge of abducting his son. He was expected to appear in court Wednesday.

Authorities returned to search the compound after interviews on Friday and Saturday led them to believe the boy might still be on the property.

"We had a good idea of a target location to look for the child," Hogrefe said.

The Georgia arrest warrant said the boy suffers from severe medical issues including a defect caused by lack of oxygen and blood flow around the time of birth. His mother said he can't walk and requires constant attention.

At a news conference in Taos, Hogrefe described FBI surveillance efforts in recent months that included photographs of the compound and interviews. He said the images were shared with the mother of Abdul-ghani but she did not spot her son.

"I had no probable cause to get a search warrant to go onto this property," the sheriff said.

He said FBI officials were invited to the news conference but declined to attend. An FBI spokesman didn't immediately return a call seeking comment.

Hogrefe said the "breaking point" in seeking a search warrant came when Georgia authorities received a message that may have originated within the compound that children were starving inside.

It wasn't clear who sent the message or how it was communicated. Georgia detectives forwarded it to the Taos County Sheriff's Office.

Children ages 1 to 15 were rescued from the compound that had been under investigation for months. The sheriff said it appeared the children hadn't eaten for days.

Property owner Jason Badger said he and his wife had pressed authorities to remove the group that he said had built the compound on his acreage instead of a neighboring tract owned by Lucas Morton, one of the men arrested during the raid.

"I started to try and kick them off about three months ago and everything I tried to do kept getting knocked down," Badger said.

Court records show a judge dismissed an eviction notice filed by Badger against Morton in June. The records didn't provide further details on the judge's decision.

Tyler Anderson, who lives near the compound, believes the group had moved to the area to live off the grid, just as he had done.

Anderson said he had helped the newcomers install solar panels after they arrived in December. But he eventually stopped visiting the compound. He said the children at first played at neighboring properties but stopped in recent months.

The women, believed to be mothers of some of the children, have been identified as 35-year-old Jany Leveille, 38-year-old Hujrah Wahhaj, and 35-year-old Subhannah Wahhaj.

Jail booking photos show them wearing traditional Muslim veils or hijabs.

Aleks Kostich, managing attorney in the Taos County public defender's office, said the office was gathering information and assigning attorneys to the defendants. He declined to comment on their behalf, citing the early stage of the case.

However, he questioned the "legal sufficiency" of the criminal complaints filed against the men and women, saying they were vague.

"I'm not sure how much investigating has been done," he said. "I'm not sure how much law enforcement knows and how long they've known it for."

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AP writer Kate Brumback in Jonesboro, Georgia, contributed to this report.

This Aug. 5, 2018 photo shows a "no trespassing" sign outside the location where people camped near Amalia, N.M. Three women believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Jesse Moya/The Taos News via AP)

CORRECTS LAST NAME TO WAHHAJ, NOT WAHHA - This combination photo provided by the Taos County Sheriff's Department shows Subhannah Wahhaj, from left, Jany Leveille and Hujrah Wahhaj. Three women believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico, have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Taos County Sheriff's Department via AP)

CORRECTS LAST NAME TO MORTON, NOT MORTEN - This photo provided by the Taos County Sheriff's Department shows Lucas Morton, left, and Siraj Wahhaj. Morton and Wahhaj were arrested after law enforcement officers searching a rural northern New Mexico compound for a missing 3-year-old boy found 11 children in filthy conditions and hardly any food. (Taos County Sheriff's Department via AP)

CORRECTS LAST NAME TO WAHHAJ, NOT WAHHA - This photo provided by the Taos County Sheriff's Department shows Subhannah Wahhaj. Wahhaj and a few other women, believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico, have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Taos County Sheriff via AP)

CORRECTS LAST NAME TO MORTON, NOT MORTEN - This Friday, Aug. 3, 2018, photo released by Taos County Sheriff's Office shows Lucas Morton. Morton was arrested on suspicion of harboring a fugitive after law enforcement officers searching a rural northern New Mexico compound for a missing 3-year-old boy found 11 children in filthy conditions and hardly any food. (Taos County Sheriff's Office via AP)

This photo provided by the Taos County Sheriff's Department shows Jany Leveille. Leveille and a few other women, believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico, have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Taos County Sheriff via AP)

CORRECTS HER LAST NAME TO WAHHAJ, NOT WAHHAJJ - This photo provided by the Taos County Sheriff's Department shows Hujrah Wahhaj. Wahhaj and a few other women, believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico, have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Taos County Sheriff via AP)

This undated posted provided by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children shows Abdul-ghani Wahhaj, left, and his father Siraj Wahhaj, who police are seeking the public's in finding. Police reports show that the Georgia boy missing after authorities raided a New Mexico compound over the weekend was last seen in Alabama in December. The boy's mother told police he left with his father, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, for a trip to a park and never returned. (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children via AP)

FILE - This Aug. 3, 2018, file photo released by Taos County Sheriff's Office shows a rural compound during an unsuccessful search for a missing boy in Amalia, N.M. Three women believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. The boy last seen in Alabama in December traveling with one of the men who was arrested has not been found. (Taos County Sheriff's Office via AP, File)
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - Some 14,000 firefighters, including inmate volunteers, are battling 18 major blazes burning thousands of square miles throughout California with aircraft, assorted vehicles and picks and shovels.

They take aim at the biggest wildfires in two ways and in much of the same way the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has for decades. They'll go at it directly with water and retardant where they can.

And when they can't take that direct approach, firefighters retreat to a ridge, wide road or stream where they use bulldozers to cut a "fire line." There they'll wait for the blaze to come to them while lighting "backfires" to clear vegetation between the fire line and the approaching blaze.

FILE - In this Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018, file photo, an air tanker drops fire retardant on a burning hillside in the Ranch Fire in Clearlake Oaks, Calif. Some 14,000 firefighters are battling 18 major blazes burning hundreds of square miles throughout California with aircraft, assorted vehicles and picks and shovels. (AP Photo/Josh Edelson, File)

Experts say whichever approach Cal Fire takes, California firefighters are often more aggressive in trying to extinguish wildfires than those in other less-populated states. That's because California wildfires are increasingly threatening sprawling urban areas.

"Cal Fire is really an urban firefighter service in the woods," said Arizona State University life sciences professor Stephen Pyne, a wildfire management expert.

Cal Fire spokesman Scott McLean said firefighters use both approaches to battle the large blazes, including the growing twin fires about 100 miles (160 kilometers) north of San Francisco.

McLean said firefighters are using the direct approach to prevent the fires from reaching urban areas along Clear Lake while retreating in national forests "and letting the fire come to us."

Those two fires grew to a combined 443 square miles (1,148 square kilometers) to become the state's largest wildfire.

McLean and fire experts say it's impossible to surround a fire that large, especially with 17 other major fires requiring attention in the state.

"We are building lines. Picking and choosing where we think we can take a stand," McLean said. "Attacking it where we can and waiting and letting it come to us when appropriate."

McLean said firefighters are using direct means to prevent the twin fires from reaching evacuated urban areas on the east side of Clear Lake. At the same time, firefighters have pulled back in the uninhabited national forests to the north, where they have cut fire lines and are employing indirect methods.

Experts say the best way to fight these destructive wildfires is to prevent them in the first place when building homes and other buildings.

"It's the embers, not the fire itself, that destroy most homes," said Steve Conboy, a construction expert whose company develops fire-resistant chemicals to apply to wood.

In the meantime, Gov. Jerry Brown and other state officials warned that the state is expected to endure record-breaking wildfires going forward. Drought, warmer weather and other factors have combined to start wildfire season sooner and make the blazes more destructive.

"We're in uncharted territory," the governor said last week. "Since civilization emerged 10,000 years ago, we haven't had this kind of heat condition, and it's going to continue getting worse. That's the way it is."

Firefighting costs have more than tripled from $242 million in the 2013 fiscal year to $773 million in the 2018 fiscal year that ended June 30, according to Cal Fire.

"In past decades, we may have seen a fire that we're seeing now in August or September," Ca Fire Director Ken Pimlott said during a press conference last week. "We are routinely now seeing fires reach 100,000 acres several times in one month and it's only July, so we have a long way to go in this fire season, and as we saw last year fire season can go right up through December."

FILE - In this Monday, July 16, 2018, file photo, an inmate firefighter clears brush to create a fire break while battling the Ferguson Fire in unincorporated Mariposa County, Calif. Some 14,000 firefighters are battling 18 major blazes burning hundreds of square miles throughout California with aircraft, assorted vehicles and picks and shovels. (AP Photo/Noah Berger, File)
MILAN (AP) - Italy's prime minister visited people who were injured when a truck carrying highly flammable gas crashed and exploded on a highway near Bologna, saying Tuesday it was important to understand what happened to prevent future tragedies.

Prosecutors have opened an investigation of Monday's accident, which was triggered when the tanker truck hauling liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG, rammed a truck stuck in a line of traffic. The tanker caught fire and then exploded, shooting a fireball across the raised highway's eight lanes and collapsing part of it.

The tanker truck's driver was killed, but two highway patrolmen were credited with preventing more deaths by clearing the road of startled and curious motorists in the minutes between the collision and the blast.

A view of the highway the day after a tanker truck hauling liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG, rammed a truck stuck in a line of traffic, taking fire and then exploding, shooting a fireball across the raised highway's eight lanes and collapsing part of it, in Bologna, northern Italy, Tuesday, August 7, 2018. Prosecutors have opened an investigation on the accident. (Giorgio Benvenuti/ANSA via AP)

"The road was full of people outside of their vehicles that were making videos. There were two or three kilometers full of cars," patrolman Giacomo Chiriatti told Italian news channel Sky TG24. "In six, seven minutes, eight, we managed to get all of the cars out of the way. After that, there was a great big explosion, as if from a film about Hiroshima and the atomic bomb."

Highway police said only the tanker driver died in the crash, revising earlier reports by the Italian carabinieri that the accident caused two fatalities. The driver was identified as 41-year-old Andrea Anziolin, of the northern Italian city of Vicenza.

"Maybe it was a moment of distraction or a wave of sleepiness" that caused Anziolin to rear-end the truck, Bologna prosecutor Giuseppe Amato told Italy's RAI radio. "But it is too early to say with certainty."

The accident injured dozens of people. Some had burns, while others were cut by flying glass from the windows of nearby buildings that shattered during powerful secondary explosions.

The ones hurt by glass included 11 carabinieri from a barracks near the blast site who were preparing to respond to the accident, officials said.

Doctors said 120 people were treated and 18 were hospitalized for injuries that included severe burns. Ten patients were being treated in a plastic surgery ward, four in burn units.

"I am here today to demonstrate the closeness of the government to the people who are suffering, but also to understand why so that these things are not repeated," Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte said during his trip to visit accident victims Tuesday.

Conte travelled later to the southern region of Puglia, where a van packed with immigrant farmworkers overturned Monday after colliding with a truck carrying tomatoes, killing 12. It was the second such fatal accident in the area in the space of three days.

Interior Minister Matteo Salvini beat the premier there, pledging to crack down on immigrants working illegally in Italy.

"The fight against the mafia and exploitation are a priority of my government," Salvini said. "Out of control immigration helps the mafia, and therefore reducing arrivals" hurts criminal organizations.

Italy's transport minister told lawmakers it would cost a maximum of 1 million euros ($1.16 million) and take about five months to repair the highway near Bologna, part of a key junction that connects highways linking northern Italy and the Adriatic coast, Italian news agency ANSA reported.

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Simone Somekh contributed to this report from Rome.

A view of the highway the day after a tanker truck hauling liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG, rammed a truck stuck in a line of traffic, taking fire and then exploding, shooting a fireball across the raised highway's eight lanes and collapsing part of it, in Bologna, northern Italy, Tuesday, August 7, 2018. Prosecutors have opened an investigation on the accident. (Giorgio Benvenuti/ANSA via AP)
ATAQ, Yemen (AP) - Again and again over the past two years, a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and backed by the United States has claimed it won decisive victories that drove al-Qaida militants from their strongholds across Yemen and shattered their ability to attack the West.

Here's what the victors did not disclose: many of their conquests came without firing a shot.

That's because the coalition cut secret deals with al-Qaida fighters, paying some to leave key cities and towns and letting others retreat with weapons, equipment and wads of looted cash, an investigation by The Associated Press has found. Hundreds more were recruited to join the coalition itself.

Coalition-backed fighters advance on Yemen's Red Sea port town of Mocha in this Jan. 11 2017, photo. The coalition forces eventually captured the town from Shiite rebels known as Houthis. Some fighters in the unit were openly al-Qaida, wearing Afghan-style garb and carrying weapons with an al-Qaida logo, a sign of how closely the militants have been involved in the war against the Houthis, who are seen by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as a proxy for Iranian influence. (AP Photo)

These compromises and alliances have allowed al-Qaida militants to survive to fight another day - and risk strengthening the most dangerous branch of the terror network that carried out the 9/11 attacks. Key participants in the pacts said the U.S. was aware of the arrangements and held off on any drone strikes.

The deals uncovered by the AP reflect the contradictory interests of the two wars being waged simultaneously in this southwestern corner of the Arabian Peninsula.

In one conflict, the U.S. is working with its Arab allies - particularly the United Arab Emirates - with the aim of eliminating the branch of extremists known as al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP. But the larger mission is to win the civil war against the Houthis, Iranian-backed Shiite rebels. And in that fight, al-Qaida militants are effectively on the same side as the Saudi-led coalition - and, by extension, the United States.

"Elements of the U.S. military are clearly aware that much of what the U.S. is doing in Yemen is aiding AQAP and there is much angst about that," said Michael Horton, a fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, a U.S. analysis group that tracks terrorism.

"However, supporting the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia against what the U.S. views as Iranian expansionism takes priority over battling AQAP and even stabilizing Yemen," Horton said.

The AP's findings are based on reporting in Yemen and interviews with two dozen officials, including Yemeni security officers, militia commanders, tribal mediators and four members of al-Qaida's branch. All but a few of those sources spoke on condition of anonymity, fearing reprisals. Emirati-backed factions, like most armed groups in Yemen, have been accused of abducting or killing their critics.

Coalition-backed militias actively recruit al-Qaida militants, or those who were recently members, because they're considered exceptional fighters, the AP found.

The coalition forces are comprised of a dizzying mix of militias, factions, tribal warlords and tribes with very local interests. And AQAP militants are intertwined with many of them.

One Yemeni commander who was put on the U.S. terrorism list for al-Qaida ties last year continues to receive money from the UAE to run his militia, his own aide told the AP. Another commander, recently granted $12 million for his fighting force by Yemen's president, has a known al-Qaida figure as his closest aide.

In one case, a tribal mediator who brokered a deal between the Emiratis and al-Qaida even gave the extremists a farewell dinner.

Horton said much of the war on al-Qaida by the UAE and its allied militias is a "farce."

"It is now almost impossible to untangle who is AQAP and who is not since so many deals and alliances have been made," he said.

The U.S. has sent billions of dollars in weapons to the coalition to fight the Iran-backed Houthis. U.S. advisers also give the coalition intelligence used in targeting on-the-ground adversaries in Yemen, and American jets provide air-to-air refueling for coalition war planes. The U.S. does not fund the coalition, however, and there is no evidence that American money went to AQAP militants.

The U.S. is aware of an al-Qaida presence among the anti-Houthi ranks, a senior American official told reporters in Cairo earlier this year. Because coalition members back militias with hard-line Islamic commanders, "it's very, very easy for al-Qaida to insinuate itself into the mix," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity under the terms of the briefing.

More recently, the Pentagon vigorously denied any complicity with al-Qaida militants.

"Since the beginning of 2017, we have conducted more than 140 strikes to remove key AQAP leaders and disrupt its ability to use ungoverned spaces to recruit, train and plan operations against the U.S. and our partners across the region," Navy Cmdr. Sean Robertson, a Pentagon spokesman, wrote in an email to the AP.

An Emirati government spokesman did not reply to questions from the AP.

But on Monday, Emirati Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash tweeted that the UAE-backed counter-terrorism strategy is working. He said it had "removed" thousands of militants and deprived them of safe havens.

AQAP is "at its weakest since 2012," he wrote, adding that the UAE and its allies "have all lost troops in the fight."

Coalition spokesman Col. Turki al-Malki on Monday said the AP's findings were "incorrect" and "not based on convincing facts and evidence."

"The coalition is waging a war on terrorist organizations in Yemen, like al-Qaida, the Islamic State group and the Houthi militia," he said. "It continues to carry our joint operations with its friends and brothers to dismantle these groups' capabilities."

The coalition began fighting in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis overran the north, including the capital, Sanaa. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are determined to stop what they consider a move by their nemesis, Iran, to take over Yemen, and their professed aim is to restore the internationally recognized government of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi.

Al-Qaida is leveraging the chaos to its advantage.

"The United States is certainly in a bind in Yemen," said Katherine Zimmerman, a research fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. "It doesn't make sense that the United States has identified al-Qaida as a threat, but that we have common interests inside of Yemen and that, in some places, it looks like we're looking the other way."

Within this complicated conflict, al-Qaida says its numbers - which U.S. officials have estimated at 6,000 to 8,000 members - are rising.

An al-Qaida commander who helps organize deployments told the AP that the front lines against the Houthis provide fertile ground to recruit new members.

"Meaning, if we send 20, we come back with 100," he said.

The well-known commander communicated with AP via a secure messaging app on condition of anonymity because he had no authorization from the group to talk to the news media.

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The Associated Press reported this story with help from a grant from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting.

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A FAREWELL DINNER FOR AL-QAIDA

In February, Emirati troops and their Yemeni militia allies flashed victory signs to TV cameras as they declared the recapture of al-Said, a district of villages running through the mountainous province of Shabwa - an area al-Qaida had largely dominated for nearly three years.

It was painted as a crowning victory in a months-long offensive, Operation Swift Sword, that the Emirati ambassador to Washington, Yousef al-Otaiba, had proclaimed would "disrupt the terrorist organization's network and degrade its ability to conduct future attacks."

The Pentagon, which assisted with a small number of troops, echoed that promise, saying the mission would weaken the group's ability to use Yemen as a base.

But weeks before those forces' entry, a string of pickup trucks mounted with machine guns and loaded with masked al-Qaida militants drove out of al-Said unmolested, according to a tribal mediator involved in the deal for their withdrawal.

The U.S. has killed al-Qaida's top leaders in a drone strike campaign that accelerated in recent years. But in this victory - as in the others touted by the coalition - the mediator said armed U.S. drones were absent, despite the large, obvious convoy.

Under the terms of the deal, the coalition promised al-Qaida members it would pay them to leave, according to Awad al-Dahboul, the province's security chief. His account was confirmed by the mediator and two Yemeni government officials.

Al-Dahboul said about 200 al-Qaida members received payments. He did not learn the exact amounts, but said he knew that 100,000 Saudi rials ($26,000) were paid to one al-Qaida commander - in the presence of Emiratis.

Under the accord, thousands of local tribal fighters were to be enlisted in the UAE-funded Shabwa Elite Force militia. For every 1,000 fighters, 50 to 70 would be al-Qaida members, the mediator and two officials said.

Saleh bin Farid al-Awlaqi, a pro-Emirati tribal leader who was the founder of one Elite Force branch, denied any agreements were made. He said he and others enticed young al-Qaida members in Shabwa to defect, which weakened the group, forcing it to withdraw on its own. He said about 150 fighters who defected were allowed into the Elite Force, but only after they underwent a "repentance" program.

The clearing of al-Qaida from Shabwa and other provinces did not completely take place without fighting. Clashes erupted in some villages, usually with al-Qaida remnants that refused to play ball.

One former al-Qaida member told the AP that he and his comrades turned down an offer of money from the Emiratis. In response, he said, an Elite Force squad besieged them in the town of Hawta until they withdrew.

Overall, deals that took place during both the Obama and Trump administrations have secured al-Qaida militants' withdrawal from multiple major towns and cities that the group seized in 2015, the AP found. The earliest pact, in the spring of 2016, allowed thousands of al-Qaida fighters to pull out of Mukalla, Yemen's fifth-largest city and a major port on the Arabian Sea.

The militants were guaranteed a safe route out and allowed to keep weapons and cash looted from the city - up to $100 million by some estimates - according to five sources, including military, security and government officials.

"Coalition fighter jets and U.S. drones were idle," said a senior tribal leader who saw the convoy leaving. "I was wondering why they didn't strike them."

A tribal sheikh shuttled between AQAP leaders in Mukalla and Emirati officials in Aden to seal the deal, according to a former senior Yemeni commander.

Coalition-backed forces moved in two days later, announcing that hundreds of militants were killed and hailing the capture as "part of joint international efforts to defeat the terrorist organizations in Yemen."

No witnesses reported militants killed, however. "We woke up one day and al-Qaida had vanished without a fight," a local journalist said, speaking to AP on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals.

Soon after, another accord was struck for AQAP to pull out of six towns in the province of Abyan, including its capital, Zinjibar, according to five tribal mediators involved in the negotiations.

Again, the central provision was that the coalition and U.S. drones cease all bombings as AQAP pulled out with its weapons, the mediators said.

The agreement also included a provision that 10,000 local tribesmen - including 250 al-Qaida militants - be incorporated into the Security Belt, the UAE-backed Yemeni force in the area, four Yemeni officials said.

For nearly a week in May 2016, the militants departed in trucks. One of the mediators told the AP that he threw the last of the departing fighters a farewell dinner among his olive and lemon orchards when they stopped at his farm to pay their respects.

Another mediator, Tarek al-Fadhli, a former jihadi once trained by al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, said he was in touch with officials at the U.S. Embassy and in the Saudi-led coalition, keeping them updated on the withdrawal.

"When the last one left, we called the coalition to say they are gone," he said.

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'WE WILL UNITE WITH THE DEVIL'

To think of al-Qaida as an international terror group is to miss its other reality. For many Yemenis, it is simply another faction on the ground - a very effective one, well-armed and battle-hardened.

Its members are not shadowy strangers. Over the years, AQAP has woven itself into society by building ties with tribes, buying loyalties and marrying into major families.

Power players often see it as a useful tool.

Hadi's predecessor as Yemen's president, long-ruling strongman Ali Abdullah Saleh, set the model. He took billions in U.S. aid to combat al-Qaida after the 9/11 attacks, even as he recruited its militants to fight his rivals. Hadi's current vice president, Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar, a military chief for decades, also has been accused of enlisting jihadis.

In that light, it would almost be more startling if the militants were not involved against the Houthis, especially since al-Qaida militants are extremist Sunnis seeking the defeat of the Shiite rebels.

Al-Qaida militants are present on all major front lines fighting the rebels, Khaled Baterfi, a senior leader in the group, said in a previously unpublished 2015 interview with a local journalist obtained by the AP.

Last month, Baterfi said in a Q&A session distributed by al-Qaida that "those at the front lines for sure know of our participation, which is either actual fighting with our brothers in Yemen or supporting them with weapons."

Al-Qaida has reduced attacks against Hadi's and Emirati-linked forces because assailing them would benefit the Houthis, Baterfi said.

The branch is following guidance from al-Qaida's worldwide leader, Ayman al-Zawahri, to focus on fighting the rebels, another top AQAP member said in written answers to the AP.

In some places, militants join battles independently. But in many cases, militia commanders from the ultraconservative Salafi sect and the Muslim Brotherhood bring them directly into their ranks, where they benefit from coalition funding, the AP found. The Brotherhood's Yemen branch is a powerful hard-line Islamic political organization allied to Hadi.

Two of the four main coalition-backed commanders along the Red Sea coast are allies of al-Qaida, the al-Qaida member said. The coalition has made major advances on the coast, and is currently battling for the port of Hodeida.

Video footage shot by the AP in January 2017 showed a coalition-backed unit advancing on Mocha, part of an eventually successful campaign to recapture the Red Sea town.

Some of the unit's fighters were openly al-Qaida, wearing Afghan-style garb and carrying weapons with the group's logo. As they climbed behind machine guns in pick-up trucks, explosions from coalition airstrikes could be seen on the horizon.

An AQAP member interviewed in person by the AP in May viewed the video and confirmed the fighters belonged to his group. His affiliation is known from his past involvement in AQAP's rule over a southern city.

The impact of the intertwining of al-Qaida fighters with the coalition campaign is clearest in Taiz, Yemen's largest city and center of one of the war's longest running battles.

In the central highlands, Taiz is Yemen's cultural capital, a historic source of poets and writers and educated technocrats. In 2015, the Houthis laid siege to the city, occupying surrounding mountain ranges, sealing the entrances and shelling it mercilessly.

Taiz residents rose up to fight back, and coalition cash and weapons poured in - as did al-Qaida and Islamic State militants, all aimed at the same enemy.

One liberal activist took up arms alongside other men from his neighborhood to defend the city, and they found themselves fighting side by side with al-Qaida members.

"There is no filtering in the war. We are all together," said the activist, who spoke on condition of anonymity. He said commanders received weapons and other aid from the coalition and distributed it to all the fighters, including al-Qaida militants.

Abdel-Sattar al-Shamiri, a former adviser to Taiz's governor, said he recognized al-Qaida's presence from the start and told commanders not to recruit members.

"Their response was, 'We will unite with the devil in the face of Houthis,'" al-Shamiri said.

He said he warned coalition officials, who were "upset" but took no action.

"Taiz is in danger," al-Shamiri said. "We will get rid of the Houthis and we will be stuck with terrorist groups."

The activist and officials in the city said one of the main recruiters of al-Qaida fighters is Adnan Rouzek, a Salafi member tapped by Hadi to be a top military commander.

Rouzek's militia became notorious for kidnappings and street killings, with one online video showing its masked members shooting a kneeling, blindfolded man. Its videos feature al-Qaida-style anthems and banners.

Rouzek's top aide was a senior al-Qaida figure who escaped from a prison in Aden in 2008 along with other AQAP detainees, according to a Yemeni security official. Multiple photos seen by the AP show Rouzek with known al-Qaida commanders in recent years.

In November, Hadi named Rouzek head of the Taiz Operations Rooms, coordinating the military campaign, and top commander of a new fighting force, the 5th Presidential Protection Battalion. Hadi's Defense Ministry also gave Rouzek $12 million for a new offensive against the Houthis. The AP obtained copy of a receipt for the $12 million and a Rouzek aide confirmed the figure.

Rouzek denied any connection to militants, telling the AP that "there is no presence of al-Qaida" in Taiz.

Another coalition-backed warlord is on the U.S. list of designated terrorists due to his ties to al-Qaida.

The warlord, a Salafi known as Sheikh Aboul Abbas, has received millions of dollars from the coalition to distribute among anti-Houthi factions, according to his aide, Adel al-Ezzi. Despite being put on the U.S. list in October, the UAE continues to fund him, al-Ezzi told the AP.

The aide denied any links to militants and dismissed his boss's designation on the U.S. terror list. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that "al-Qaida has fought on all the front lines alongside all factions."

Right after the AP team spoke to him in Taiz, the team saw al-Ezzi meeting with a known senior al-Qaida figure, warmly hugging him outside the home of another former AQAP commander.

Aboul Abbas runs a coalition-funded militia controlling several districts in Taiz. A 2016 video produced by al-Qaida shows militants in black uniforms with al-Qaida's logo fighting alongside other militias in districts known to be under his control.

A former security official in Taiz said militants and Aboul Abbas' forces attacked security headquarters in 2017 and freed a number of al-Qaida suspects. The officer said he reported the attack to the coalition, only to learn soon after that it gave Aboul Abbas 40 more pick-up trucks.

"The more we warn, the more they are rewarded," the officer said. "Al-Qaida leaders have armored vehicles given to them by the coalition while security commanders don't have such vehicles."

___

Wilson contributed from Washington. Keath contributed from Beirut. AP correspondent Desmond Butler also contributed to this report.

A former al-Qaida commander, Harith al-Ezzi, walks through streets destroyed in fighting in the southern Yemeni city of Taiz in this Feb. 4, 2018, photo. Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, as the Yemeni branch of the group is known, has a significant presence in Taiz, fighting alongside and sometimes in coalition-backed forces against rebels who have besieged the city since 2015. Al-Ezzi is no longer in the group but sometimes acts as an intermediary between it and other factions. (AP Photo)

Men ride through streets wrecked by fighting in Taiz, Yemen in this Feb. 4, 2018, photo. The city gives the clearest example of the intertwining of al-Qaida with militias funded by the U.S.-backed coalition to fight the Houthi rebels. Al-Qaida militants are among the fiercest fighters in the city, driving the rebels out of some areas, and militia commanders have close ties to and recruit from the group. (AP Photo)

The black al-Qaida flag is sprayed on the wall of a damaged school that was turned into a religious court, in Taiz, Yemen, shown in this Oct. 16, 2017, photo. Al-Qaida fighters and other militants poured into Taiz to help defend it against Shiite rebels who have besieged it since 2015, and now the extremists are intertwined with militias financed by the U.S.-backed coalition. (AP Photo)

Adnan Rouzek, center, a Salafi militia leader backed by Yemen's president, stands with fighters in Taiz, Yemen, in this Feb. 6, 2018, photo. Rouzek was named a top commander with a rank of colonel by the president and recently given $12 million to fight the Houthi rebels in Taiz, but security officials in the city say he has used al-Qaida militants in his forces. His top aide is a senior al-Qaida figure who escaped from prison in 2008, they say. His militia became notorious for kidnappings and street killings. (AP Photo)

Coalition-backed fighters help a wounded man during an advance on Yemen's Red Sea port town of Mocha in this Jan. 11 2017, photo. Some of the fighters in the unit openly al-Qaida, wearing Afghan-style garb and carrying weapons with an al-Qaida logo, a sign of how closely the militant group is involved in the fight against Shiite rebels known as Houthis. The coalition fighters eventually succeeded in taking Mocha from the Houthis. (AP Photo)

An explosion raises a cloud as coalition-backed fighters advance on the Red Sea port town of Mocha in Yemen in this Jan. 11, 2017, photo, part of a campaign that eventually recaptured the town from Shiite Houthi rebels. Some of the coalition-backed units waging the assault were openly al-Qaida members, wearing Afghan-style garb and carrying weapons with an al-Qaida logo. One al-Qaida member said two of the four main coalition-backed commanders on the Red Sea front are allies of the militant group. (AP Photo)
SKOPJE, Macedonia (AP) - Macedonian police say they have arrested seven people on suspicion of terrorism for allegedly participating as fighters in the wars in Syria and Iraq.

The suspects, all Macedonian nationals aged between 23 and 41, were arrested in an overnight operation Monday to Tuesday on international warrants. They will be charged for "participation in a foreign army, police and paramilitary formations."

Under a Macedonian antiterrorism law, it is illegal to participate in any paramilitary group or armed conflicts abroad. If convicted, they face jail sentences of up to 10 years.

According to earlier Macedonian official estimates, about 130 Macedonian nationals have joined the Islamic State group and participated in wars in Syria. At least a dozen have been killed in fighting.
ROCKVILLE, Md. (AP) - A Maryland school bus driver is accused of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old while transporting students receiving special education services.

News outlets report that 62-year-old Etienne K. Kabongo, known to students as "Mr. Steve," has been arrested on sexual offenses including second-degree rape. Montgomery County Police say Kabongo assaulted the girl on July 31 after an attendant left the bus to drop off another student. Police say a school bus camera recorded the assault.

Kabongo, of Gaithersburg, has worked for Montgomery County Public Schools since 2006. He primarily drove students receiving special education services. Jack Smith is the superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools. Smith says the school system has placed Kabongo on leave. Smith says the school system is working to outfit all school buses with cameras.
China's Ministry of Commerce announced new countermeasures in response to the additional tariffs on Chinese goods recently levied from Washington - targeting $60 billion worth of US imported products at four separate rates. The MOC's announcement is a firm counterattack as the US continues to threaten another 25 percent in tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods.

Based on the information released from the US, tariffs on the $200 billion will take effect on September 5 or later. The implementation date of China's proposed tariffs will be determined based on US reaction, and the trade war will then reach new heights.

The tariffs that have been issued from both sides reflect the current Sino-US trade structure. According to the US Department of Commerce, the US imported $505.47 billion ($434.3 billion according to China's statistics) worth of Chinese products in 2017, while China imported some $129.89 billion worth of US goods ($155.2 billion according to China's statistics). The numbers show that the US is slapping tariffs on high-value products, which can be interpreted as a form of blackmail against China.

China's countermeasures are rational, and the emphasis can be found in their quantitative and qualitative aspects. The notion of a trade war is not a game, and China will not rush to compete with US numbers. However, China's countermeasures show that it will not yield to the US pressure and it will ultimately defeat such bullying tactics.

China's recent counter-response is a restrained one, and the country is reserving the right and its ability to announce more against the US. China's countermeasures aim to minimize the detrimental impact on domestic production and living standards. China is balancing short-term gain with long-term interests, risk versus opportunity, along with core and marginal interests.

The tax rate countermeasures were made after listening to public opinion and thoroughly evaluating potential impacts. Public welfare, domestic business stamina, maintenance of the global industrial chain, and other factors were considered when deciding each countermeasure.

China's counterattack is powerful and effective. The carefully chosen tariffs on $60 billion in US goods will have a significant impact. If the US insists on fighting a trade war, China will fight back. Some companies and individuals in China and the US suffered losses during the beginning stages of the trade war.

As the trade war expands, complaints have surfaced from the US side, while indignation from the China side has revealed itself. For those caught in the middle, the real victims, they know Washington has been the provocateur since day one, and China has been fighting back.

The grievances that have surfaced in US society and the indignation from Chinese society are both manifestations of Washington's efforts. The trade war started when the US first began harming others which in turn hurt itself, and has lost support domestically and internationally. The US won't be able to hold on for too much longer.

The Chinese market has performed well this year. GDP is up 6.8 percent, and unemployment is at an all-time low. It is predicted the trade war will have a slight influence on the domestic market for the second half of the year, but nothing too significant. The country's 1.4 billion population continues to provide enormous market potential, and China's domestic foundation will always be able to rely on that to boost economic growth.

China does not want a trade war with the US, but it will fight to the end if Washington continues starting and resuming their tariff actions. If the US wants to return to the negotiating table, then a level of sincerity will need to reveal itself. For dialogue and negotiations to be effective, mutual respect that benefits both sides needs to be in place.

China has no intention of bullying foreign nations, but it will take necessary countermeasures to defend the country's dignity and the interests of its people. Washington will get a taste of China's firm determination if it does not stop acting recklessly.
JERUSALEM (AP) - The Israeli military said Tuesday it struck a Hamas military post in the Gaza Strip in response to militant fire at Israeli troops, while Hamas said two of its fighters were killed after taking part in a gunfire parade inside a militant camp.

The incident took place amid Egyptian efforts to broker a cease-fire between Israel and the Palestinian militant group, which controls the coastal strip. The sides have been engaged in months of border violence.

The military said an Israeli tank shelled the Hamas post after troops came under fire. It released a video appearing to show militants shooting from a watchtower before a tank shell hits the position.

Palestinian mourners carry the body of 23 year-old Hamas fighter, Ahmad Morjan, mourn at the family home during his funeral, in the Jabaliya refugee camp, Northern Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. The Israeli military said it targeted a Hamas military post in northern Gaza after militants opened fire, and Hamas said two of its fighters were killed. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Hamas later denied Israel's account, saying shots were fired as part of a graduation ceremony for a group of fighters inside the camp. The group's armed wing said the fighters' families and Hamas leadership attended the event, without providing names. It said Israel was "fabricating lies" and that it bore responsibility for the deaths.

Tensions have escalated since late March, when Hamas launched what would become regular mass protests along Israel's perimeter fence with Gaza. The protests have been aimed in part at trying to break the blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt after Hamas seized the territory in 2007.

Over the past four months, 160 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire, including at least 120 in the protests near the fence, according to the Gaza Health Ministry and a local rights group. One Israeli soldier was killed by a Gaza sniper during this period.

EDS NOTE: GRAPHIC CONTENT - Palestinian relatives of 23 year-old Hamas fighter, Ahmad Morjan, mourn at the family home during his funeral, in the Jabaliya refugee camp, Northern Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. The Israeli military said it targeted a Hamas military post in northern Gaza after militants opened fire, and Hamas said two of its fighters were killed. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Palestinian relatives of 23 year-old Hamas fighter, Ahmad Morjan, mourn at the family home during his funeral, in the Jabaliya refugee camp, Northern Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. The Israeli military said it targeted a Hamas military post in northern Gaza after militants opened fire, and Hamas said two of its fighters were killed. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Palestinian relatives of 23 year-old Hamas fighter, Ahmad Morjan, mourn at the family home during his funeral, in the Jabaliya refugee camp, Northern Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. The Israeli military said it targeted a Hamas military post in northern Gaza after militants opened fire, and Hamas said two of its fighters were killed. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Palestinian relatives of 23 year-old Hamas fighter, Ahmad Morjan, mourn at the family home during his funeral, in the Jabaliya refugee camp, Northern Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. The Israeli military said it targeted a Hamas military post in northern Gaza after militants opened fire, and Hamas said two of its fighters were killed. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Palestinian relatives of 23 year-old Hamas fighter, Ahmad Morjan, mourn at the family home during his funeral, in the Jabaliya refugee camp, Northern Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. The Israeli military said it targeted a Hamas military post in northern Gaza after militants opened fire, and Hamas said two of its fighters were killed. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Palestinian mourners carry the body of 23 year-old Hamas fighter, Ahmad Morjan, mourn at the family home during his funeral, in the Jabaliya refugee camp, Northern Gaza Strip, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. The Israeli military said it targeted a Hamas military post in northern Gaza after militants opened fire, and Hamas said two of its fighters were killed. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)
LISBON, Portugal (AP) - The Latest on hot weather and wildfires in Europe (all times local):

4:30 p.m.

Authorities have evacuated four campsites as a brush fire swept through tinder-dry countryside in the eastern Netherlands.

Hundreds of tourist sit on the beach in the Baltic Sea resort of Heringsdorf on island of Usedom, northern Germany, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (Stefan Sauer/dpa via AP)

The regional security service said that firefighters from three provinces were battling the blaze Tuesday in Wateren, 135 kilometers (85 miles) northeast of Amsterdam, and a military helicopter was also on its way to help.

There were no reports of injuries or damage to any homes. Members of the public were warned to stay away from the area.

Along with much of Europe, the Netherlands is in the grip of a blistering heatwave. Temperatures were in the mid-30s C (90s F) in the late afternoon. But they are expected to fall in evening, with a band of storms expected to pass over parts of the country.

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10:50 a.m.

France's environment minister has called on motorists to comply with car restrictions amid a heat wave expected to peak Tuesday in the country.

Nicolas Hulot told Europe 1 radio "we are facing a new situation. We need to adapt to climate change and keep fighting its causes to avoid an amplification of the phenomena."

The cities of Paris, Lyon and Strasbourg have banned the most polluting cars from the streets for the second consecutive day because of heat-linked ozone pollution. Speed limits have also been lowered on certain roads and highways across France.

The hottest weather Tuesday was expected in central and northeastern France, with temperatures that could reach 40 C (104 F).

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10:25 a.m.

More than 1,000 firefighters supported by 19 aircraft are battling a major wildfire in southern Portugal for a fifth straight day.

Authorities had hoped lower overnight temperatures would allow services to contain the blaze. But officials said Tuesday that strong winds are fueling the flames which are racing through dry and largely inaccessible woodland.

The fire came within 500 meters of the fire department in Monchique, a town of 2,000 people about 250 kilometers (155 miles) south of Lisbon, as officials evacuated scores of houses. Emergency services say 29 people have been hurt in the wildfire.

Officials say an unknown number of homes located in the forested hills have burned down.

The firefighting effort is drawing criticism, with some claiming poor organization is thwarting the operation.

A woman cools down under a fountain in Saint Jean de Luz, southwestern France, Monday, Aug.6, 2018, where temperatures rose up to 35 degrees Celsius ( 95 degrees Fahrenheit). The heat wave in France is expected to last until Thursday, with temperatures peaking Tuesday. (AP Photo/Bob Edme)

A firefighter jumps off a small mound while working on a fire near the village of Monchique, in southern Portugal's Algarve region, Monday, Aug. 6, 2018. Emergency services in Portugal say they are still fighting a major wildfire on the south coast that threatened to engulf a hillside town overnight. (AP Photo/Javier Fergo)

A burnt excavator sits in a wood on the outskirts of the village of Monchique, in southern Portugal's Algarve region, Monday, Aug. 6, 2018. Emergency services in Portugal say they are still fighting a major wildfire on the south coast that threatened to engulf a hillside town overnight. (AP Photo/Javier Fergo)

A firefighter takes a break outside the village of Monchique, in southern Portugal's Algarve region, Monday, Aug. 6, 2018. Emergency services in Portugal say they are still fighting a major wildfire on the south coast that threatened to engulf a hillside town overnight. (AP Photo/Javier Fergo)
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Latest on the re-imposition of U.S. sanctions against Iran (all times local):

9:40 a.m.

President Donald Trump's national security adviser says U.S. sanctions that kicked in against Iran Tuesday are meant to pressure the government into a broad retreat from its support for international terrorism, its military activity in the Middle East and its ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs.

In this photo released by official website of the office of the Iranian Presidency, President Hassan Rouhani addresses the nation in a televised speech in Tehran, Iran, Monday, Aug. 6, 2018. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani struck a hard line Monday as the U.S. restored some sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal. (Iranian Presidency Office via AP)

Sanctions against financial transactions involving U.S. dollars, Iran's automotive sector and the purchase of commercial airplanes had been eased under a landmark international agreement limiting Iran's nuclear activity. But Trump pulled the U.S. out of the deal in May and pledged to reinstate sanctions.

National Security Adviser John Bolton tells Fox News Channel the intent is not to bring about Iranian "regime change."

Bolton says the U.S. wants to see a "much broader retreat" by Iran from its support for terrorism and its ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs.

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8:51 a.m.

Automaker Daimler AG says it is putting its activities in Iran on ice with the return of U.S. sanctions.

The Stuttgart-based auto and truck maker said in a statement Tuesday that "we are suspending our activities in Iran, which were anyway very limited, until further notice according to applicable sanctions."

Daimler's truck business once had hopes of a large-scale return to Iran, signing a letter of intent in 2016 with a local truck maker and making plans for a representative office and local production. But those plans faltered as the Iranian car and truck market weakened.

The representative office now "will not be continued."

President Donald Trump re-imposed many economic sanctions after pulling out of a deal to limit Iran's nuclear program.

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5:50 a.m.

President Donald Trump says stiff U.S. sanctions against Iran are back in effect and that "anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States."

He adds in an early morning tweet that he is, "asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!"

The move comes after Trump declared the landmark 2015 nuclear agreement "horrible." The sanctions reinstated on Tuesday target financial transactions that involve U.S. dollars, Iran's automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

More U.S sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank are to be re-imposed in early November.

The stiff economic sanctions ratchet up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite the concerns of European allies after Trump pulled the U.S. out of the international accord limiting Iran's nuclear activities.
As summer vacationers start to pack up and head home, Congress is considering a sweeping tally of proposals that could affect travelers, from dictating seat size and legroom to rolling back rules that require airlines to advertise the full price of a ticket.

The current law authorizing operations of the Federal Aviation Administration expires on Sept. 30. Sen. John Thune, R-South Dakota, chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, is working to bring his panel's bill for a five-year reauthorization to the Senate floor after a series of delays.

The House passed its version of the same bill in April.

FILE- In this June 29, 2018, photo, passengers wait for baggage at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas. As summer vacationers start to pack up and head home, Congress is considering a sweeping tally of proposals that could affect travelers, from dictating seat size and legroom to rolling back rules that require airlines to advertise the full price of a ticket. (AP Photo/John Locher, File)

Consumer advocates see victories and setbacks among the provisions in the two bills.

- Airline seats: The House bill would give the FAA a year to set minimums for seat width and length and the distance between rows, although it didn't set specific measurements. The version approved by a Senate committee would only direct FAA to study whether there should be minimum requirements for the distance between rows.

The room between rows - measured from a point on one seat to the same point on the seat in the next row - has been shrinking for many years as airlines squeeze more seats onto their planes. It was once commonly 34 or 35 inches, and is now under 30 inches on some planes.

Some safety advocates say the tighter fit makes it harder for passengers to evacuate in an emergency. The FAA has declined a consumer group's request to impose regulations, putting the issue in Congress's hands.

- Advertised prices: Consumer groups scored a hard-fought victory in 2012, when the Obama administration required airlines to include government taxes and fees in the advertised price of a ticket. Airlines opposed the rule then, and they lobbied the House to include a provision in its FAA bill that would roll back the requirement.

"Consumers need to know the full cost of travel," said Charles Leocha, president of Travelers United. "Taking a step back to allowing the airlines to advertise airfares without mandatory taxes and fees will be a major step toward allowing deceptive and misleading airfares."

- Extra fees: The Senate bill would prohibit airlines from charging "unreasonable" ticket-change or cancellation fees. The Transportation Department also would set standards for other fees to make sure they reflect the airline's actual cost for providing extra service. Airlines raised more than $7.4 billion last year from fees on checked baggage and cancellations.

The restriction was proposed by a pair of Senate Democrats over strong objections by the airline lobby. Sharon Pinkerton, a senior vice president at the trade group Airlines for America, called it a first step toward returning to the pre-1978 era when the federal government set airline prices.

- Overbooked flights. The House would ban airlines from bumping passengers from overbooked flights once they have boarded the plane. The provision was inspired by the 2017 incident in which a passenger was dragged off a United Express plane to make room for a late-arriving airline employee. In response to the criticism, airlines have cut overbooking to their lowest level in at least two decades.

- Online travel agencies. Both the House bill and the Senate's committee-approved version would require online travel agencies like Expedia and Orbitz to tell consumers about things like extra fees and changes in airline schedules. Vaughn Jennings, a spokesman for the airline trade group Airlines for America, said the online agencies "shouldn't be exempt from consumer-protection standards that customers experience on airline websites."

Steve Shur, president of a trade group that includes the online ticket sellers, said airlines don't always give his companies that kind of information. He called the proposals a veiled effort to drive them out of the air-travel business and reduce competition for the airlines.

- Disruptive passengers. The House bill would let airline employees block passengers from going through security screening or getting on a plane if the employee accuses them of verbal or physical assault. Passengers would be held up until police could sort things out. A union that represents airline employees lobbied for the provision.

There are many other provisions in the bills, including some that are opposed by safety experts. Pilot unions are fighting against a trial to test the idea of letting cargo airlines use one pilot instead of two. The unions say that in an emergency, one pilot could be more easily overwhelmed.

An even more controversial idea would reduce the number of hours that someone must fly to become an airline co-pilot. It's in the bill approved by Thune's committee but not in the House version.

Congress raised the minimum from 250 hours to 1,500 hours after 50 people died in a 2009 accident near Buffalo, New York. The Regional Airline Association, whose members operate smaller planes flying under the banners of American Eagle, Delta Connection and United Express, say the requirement has created a pilot shortage.

The RAA supports Thune's proposal to let pilots count time on certain types of training in a classroom or a flight simulator toward the 1,500 hours.

Families of those who died in the 2009 Colgan Air crash have fought against the RAA. They note that after Colgan, there were no fatal accidents involving U.S. airliners until a woman was killed on a Southwest flight in April.

"The RAA and others will continue to try any maneuver to water this down. It's sad," said Scott Maurer, whose daughter Lorin was on the Colgan plane. "In their eyes it's not about safety, it's about their business profits."

If the Senate acts on the FAA bill, any differences from the House version would need to be settled before a final measure goes to President Donald Trump. If Congress can't agree, lawmakers could pass a scaled-back, short-term extension to keep FAA functioning.

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David Koenig can be reached at http://twitter.com/airlinewriter

FILE- In this June 29, 2018, file photo, travelers gather on benches to wait for delayed and arriving flights as others make their way to to their gate at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. As summer vacationers start to pack up and head home, Congress is considering a sweeping tally of proposals that could affect travelers, from dictating seat size and legroom to rolling back rules that require airlines to advertise the full price of a ticket. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson, File)
VILNIUS, Lithuania (AP) - Tourism officials in Lithuania's capital are coming under fire from the Catholic Church for a highly sexualized advertising campaign to promote the city as Pope Francis prepares to visit the country next month.

The campaign features a woman lying on what looks like a bed sheet printed with a map of Europe, her hand gripping Lithuania in a way that suggests sexual pleasure. The text above her reads: "Vilnius, the G-spot of Europe" and "Nobody knows where it is, but when you find it, it's amazing."

Lithuanian Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis said Tuesday he does not find the campaign, set to be launched Thursday in London and Berlin, offensive to standards of public decency, but acknowledged its timing was "rather weird."

"I think it's a strange advertising choice, but I believe it does not cross the line in a democratic country," Skvernelis told Lithuanian public broadcaster LRT.

Francis' Sept. 22-25 tour of Baltic countries is supposed to start in Lithuania, where Catholics are the religious majority.

"As to the timing, we are speaking about a very important visit to Lithuania," the prime minister added, referring to the pope's visit. "So perhaps these steps should have been coordinated, but that's the decision of Vilnius."

Lithuanian priests expressed concerns that the ad used "women's sexuality for advertising" and gave "wrong ideas" about Vilnius, a city with a population of 540,000. The government earlier originally asked Vilnius officials to postpone the ad's launch until after the papal visit.

Inga Romanovskiene, the manager of the Go Vilnius tourism agency behind the campaign, called the pope's visit "a very important event."

Vilnius faces "a very high level of competition from other European cities "when it comes to marketing, and those who presented the campaign had "an extremely engaging idea to drive interest in the city," she added.
ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast (AP) - Ivory Coast's president has granted amnesty to former first lady Simone Gbagbo, who had been serving 20 years in prison for offenses against the state.

President Alassane Ouattara on state television late Monday announced he had granted amnesty to 800 political prisoners prosecuted for crimes connected to the 2010 postelection crisis.

More than 3,000 people were killed after ex-President Laurent Gbagbo refused to accept defeat.

Simone Gbagbo, in custody since April 2011 was sentenced in March 2015 for offenses against the state. She has been indicted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity but Ivory Coast has refused her transfer.

Ouattara says the amnesty decision shows commitment to peace and reconciliation and he urges those affected to ensure no repetition of violence.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - Relatives of a man shot to death by St. Paul police officers have joined calls for the immediate release of the officers' body camera videos and the 911 call that preceded his death.

The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said in a statement Tuesday that William James Hughes, 43, died of multiple gunshot wounds early Sunday after officers responded to a 911 call of multiple shots fired on the upper floor of the St. Paul apartment building where he lived.

The BCA said its preliminary investigation found that Officers Matthew Jones and Vincent Adams entered an enclosed porch and knocked on one of two exterior apartment doors. Hughes emerged from the other door and at some point the officers shot him. He died at the scene .

Friend Alicia Smith,left, comforts Melissa Waukazo, the sister of William "Billy" Hughes after a ceremony for her brother on Monday, Aug. 6, 2018 in St. Paul, Minn. The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said in a statement Tuesday, Aug. 7, that William James Hughes, 43, died of multiple gunshot wounds early Sunday after officers responded to a 911 call of multiple shots fired on the upper floor of the apartment building where he lived. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/Star Tribune via AP) /Star Tribune via AP)

Hughes' relatives and their supporters held a vigil Monday evening outside the Minneapolis American Indian Center, beating a drum and singing in his honor. He was a member of the White Earth Nation, an Ojibwe band based in northern Minnesota. They said his death was especially painful because his cousin was killed in a confrontation with police in 2015.

"Through our grief and difficulty, we have been left with more questions than answers as to why police officers decided to abruptly and violently take Billy's life," said his cousin, Dannah Thompson.

The BCA's statement didn't say why the officers opened fire or give any other details about what transpired during the confrontation. But police spokesman Sgt. Mike Ernster said Sunday that the man was armed with a handgun, and that their body cameras were activated. A gun was recovered at the scene, the BCA said without providing further details about the weapon.

Asked what led officers to shoot and where the gun was recovered, BCA spokeswoman Jill Oliveira said those details are part of the ongoing investigation, and that under state law the agency can't discuss active investigations.

Thompson said the family wants police to immediately release the officers' body camera videos and the 911 call.

When the family found out about Hughes' death, they said, "Not again," his aunt said.

Hughes' cousin, Philip Quinn, was fatally shot by a St. Paul officer in 2015. Investigators said Quinn was schizophrenic and suicidal when he charged the officer with a screwdriver. A grand jury cleared the officers involved.

"When is it going to stop?" asked Kathy Ficken, the aunt of both Hughes and Quinn.

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter repeated his call Tuesday for quick release of the videos.

Carter told reporters he wants the police chief to work with the BCA to release the footage "immediately." But he said key witnesses must be interviewed and relatives of the man who was killed should view it first. The mayor also wants audio release of the 911 call.

Both officers were wearing activated body cameras. Carter said he has not seen the footage but said it belongs to the city and should be made available as soon as possible.

St. Paul Police Chief Todd Axtell said in a statement Tuesday he expects to share the videos with Hughes' family and release them to the public within the next 10 days. He said releasing the footage any sooner "could obstruct our ability to reach the truth."

In a statement Tuesday, the BCA said the agency is committed "to a fair, impartial and thorough investigation" of what led to Hughes' death. The agency said it is conducting interviews and analyzing evidence, and while it cannot speak for St. Paul, the BCA said it will release all public data once the case is closed.

The Minnesota chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union issued a statement Monday calling on investigators to be more transparent.

"Whenever police kill someone, it is a tragedy," the chapter's legal director, Teresa Nelson, said in a statement. "A police shooting can affect the whole community. The residents of St. Paul along with the family ... deserve to know what happened in this tragic incident. The investigation should be transparent and done in a timely manner."

When the BCA completes its investigation, the Ramsey County attorney's office will review the findings and decide if charges are warranted.

Jones and Adams are on standard paid leave while the investigation proceeds. They both joined the force in 2013. Jones' father, Tim Jones, was a St. Paul officer who was slain in 1994 by a man who was on the run after killing another officer earlier that day.

Personnel files released Tuesday show mostly clean records plus words of praise. Adams was reprimanded in 2014 for a preventable squad car accident in which he was following someone too closely, but he got a medal of commendation last year.

Chief Axtell's letter about the medal noted that Adams was nominated as the 2016 Officer of the Year in the Western District for "exemplary performance," partly for an incident that began with a car chase that officers broke off for safety. Adams and his partner tracked the suspect down a few weeks later. Adams got hurt in the ensuing scuffle and was unable to work patrol for several months, but he took a leading role in a successful crime reduction project while on light duty, the chief said.

Jones has no disciplinary actions in his file, but it contains several thank-you notes, including one in 2013 from a Ramsey County Adult Mental Health official praising him and another officer for their skills in de-escalating a psychotic man and getting him to a hospital.

Demonstrators form a drum circle during a vigil for William "Billy" Hughes in front of the American Indian Center on Monday, Aug. 6, 2018 in St. Paul, Minn. The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said in a statement Tuesday, Aug. 7, that William James Hughes, 43, died of multiple gunshot wounds early Sunday after officers responded to a 911 call of multiple shots fired on the upper floor of the apartment building where he lived. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/Star Tribune via AP)

Nekima Levy-Pounds speaks during a vigil for William "Billy" Hughes on Monday, Aug. 6, 2018 in St. Paul, Minn. The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said in a statement Tuesday, Aug. 7, that William James Hughes, 43, died of multiple gunshot wounds early Sunday after officers responded to a 911 call of multiple shots fired on the upper floor of the apartment building where he lived. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/Star Tribune via AP) /Star Tribune via AP)

Nekima Levy-Pounds speaks during a vigil for William "Billy" Hughes on Monday, Aug. 6, 2018 in St. Paul, Minn. The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said in a statement Tuesday, Aug. 7, that William James Hughes, 43, died of multiple gunshot wounds early Sunday after officers responded to a 911 call of multiple shots fired on the upper floor of the apartment building where he lived. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/Star Tribune via AP) /Star Tribune via AP)

St. Paul Police officer Colleen Lesedil lifs crime scene tape, as the Ramsey county medical examiner leaves the scene with the body of a person that was shot and killed by St. Paul police in the 900 block of St. Anthony Avenue Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018, in St. Paul, Minn. Police say officers shot an armed man while responding to a 911 call early Sunday about shots fired at a home. (Jerry Holt/Star Tribune via AP)

The Ramsey County corner loads the body of a person that was shot and killed by St. Paul Police in the 900 block of St. Anthony Avenue, Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018 in St. Paul, Minn. Police say officers shot an armed man while responding to a 911 call early Sunday about shots fired at a home. (Jerry Holt/Star Tribune via AP)

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter gave an update on the names of the police officer-involved in the shooting of William James Hughes Tuesday Aug. 7, 2018 in St. Paul, Minn. Relatives of a man shot to death by St. Paul police officers have joined calls for the immediate release of the officers' body camera videos and the 911 call that preceded his death. (Jerry Holt/Star Tribune via AP)
MADRID (AP) - Spanish media are publishing previously unseen photographs of some of the men authorities identified as the extremists behind last year's terror attacks in Barcelona and a nearby resort town.

La Vanguardia newspaper reported Tuesday that the photos were leaked from the police investigation of the Aug. 17-18 vehicle attacks that left 16 people dead and were claimed by the Islamic State group.

The photos feature 22-year-old Younes Abouyaaquoub, who was identified as the driver of a van that plowed through Barcelona's Las Ramblas promenade and killed 13 people.

In this undated photo, published Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2018 by the Spanish newspaper La Vanguardia, a terrorist identified as Youssef Aalla who participated in several attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils on August 17, 2017 killing 16 people and injuring more than 120, poses with an explosive belt at a house in Alcanar, Spain. Spanish media are showing previously unseen photographs leaked from the police investigation into the attacks of some of those involved in last year's terror attacks just days before the anniversary. (La Vanguardia Via AP)

Also seen are one of the five men identified as the Cambrils attackers and a man whose body was found at a house the extremists allegedly used as an explosives workshop.

King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez are scheduled to attend anniversary ceremonies on Aug. 17 to mark the attacks.

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This version has been corrected to show the anniversary ceremonies are this month, not next.
ATHENS, Greece (AP) - Greece's prime minister vowed Tuesday to have experts investigate all aspects of the country's deadliest forest fire in decades and said the seaside resort areas devastated by the blaze will be rebuilt to higher standards.

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras led a meeting about the fire with ministers and regional officials in Lavrion, a seaside town about 50 kilometers (30 miles) south of the areas burned. At least 91 people died in the July 23 blaze.

"My promise, from the first day of this tragedy, was that the 'how' and the 'why' will be investigated in depth and in all its dimensions," Tsipras said. "Nothing will be covered up in the name of any vested interests."

People swim at a beach in Rafina, east of Athens, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018, ten days after the the wildfire. The bodies of 76 people killed by Greece's deadliest wildfire in decades have been identified, authorities said Tuesday, as forensic experts kept working to identify more remains recovered from the charred resort area. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis)

The prime minister reiterated that illegal buildings and fencing erected in forests, on coastlines and in creeks would be demolished. Government officials have blamed unauthorized construction for contributing to the wildfire's death toll.

Experts have pointed to the narrow streets, numerous dead-ends and no clear path to the sea as a factor in the destruction wrought in Mati. The coastal town was the worst-affected by the fire, and poor planning has been blamed as one cause of the deaths of trapped residents.

"Uncontrolled building which threatens human lives can no longer be tolerated. Anything that destroys forests and coastlines, anything that is a danger to human life, will be torn down," Tsipras said. "It is our duty toward our dead, but most of all it is our duty toward the future generations."

A judicial investigation already is underway, and more than 20 people have testified so far. Prosecutors handling the probe have requested transcripts of radio communications between police and firefighters. The investigation is expected to take at least a month.

Tsipras' government has come under intense criticism for its handling of the blaze, particularly after it denied mishandling the emergency response. The public order minister, Nikos Toskas, argued that despite much soul-searching, he had been unable to identify any major mistakes.

Following relentless denunciations from opposition parties, Toskas resigned Friday. Senior officials under his supervision followed suit over the weekend.
What used to be a barren port cluttered with cargoes along Yangtze River is now a grassy space.

To restore the banks along the Yangtze River, a special renovation project was kicked off in May to enhance utilization of waterfront resources at some ports along Chinas longest river in Yueyang City of central Chinas Hunan province

The bank of the Yangtze River, with its rich resources, is essential for industrial agglomeration and economic development. However, a number of ports and wharves along the river suffer production efficiency and capacity problems.

Chenglingji Portone of the eight deep water harbors in Yueyang, is a key area of ecological renovation. A number of its wharves will be closed due to environmental pollution or because they lack approval or have low traffic volume. Meanwhile, new wharves can no longer be approved by ports, as local authorities encourage public wharves at core ports, news portal ThePaper reported.

The rectification measures at Chenglingji are part of Hunans efforts to protect the bank of the Yangtze River. Over the years, the province has shut down 39 illegal sand and stone wharves and reclaimed over 10 kilometers of shoreline.

Eleven operators at ports have been pulled out so far, and eight have been partially withdrawn. By June 30, all 42 berths were closed.

By 2020, the total amount of ports on the riverbank is expected to be limited to around 10 kilometers and 11 wharves will be updated to improve quality.

(Wang Tianhao contributed to the story)
BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) - A European Union official says Romania will receive 59 million euros ($68 million) to modernize shipping routes along the River Danube.

Corina Cretu, European Commissioner for Regional Policy, said in a Tuesday statement that the money from the EU's cohesion funds would unlock "the enormous potential of commercial river traffic," and boost the regional economy, predicting river traffic to increase by 50 percent.

Cretu said the funds would make river navigation safer and protect areas threatened by flooding. The money will be invested in modernizing two floodgates in eastern Romania that link the Danube to the Black Sea.

The Danube is Europe's second longest river after the Volga and flows through nine countries, starting in Germany's Black Forest, before passing through Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, and Ukraine.
SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (AP) - Eight employees at a Southern California aerospace facility were taken to a hospital after being exposed to an unknown chemical that caused them breathing problems.

Los Angeles County Fire spokesman Sal Alvarado says 31 employees at TA Aerospace in Santa Clarita were exposed to powder chemicals in the process of being mixed on Monday night.

Alvarado says many of the employees were coughing after the exposure and that at least six of the employees were in fair condition when they were taken to the hospital.

It's unclear whether any of them remain hospitalized.

Alvarado didn't know what chemicals were involved in the exposure.

A phone message left at TA Aerospace wasn't returned Tuesday. The company makes clamps, insulation and other materials for the aerospace industry.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP) - The Latest on the fraud trial of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort (all times local):

10:55 p.m.

A lawyer for Paul Manafort suggests the government's star witness, Rick Gates, has told "so many lies" he can't remember them all.

This courtroom sketch depicts Rick Gates, right, testifying during questioning by prosecutor Greg Andres, standing at left, as former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, far left, sits with his lawyer Kevin Downing as Manafort's trial continues at federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. U.S. district Judge T.S. Ellis III presides at top right. (Dana Verkouteren via AP)

That's how attorney Kevin Downing began his cross-examination Tuesday of Gates, Manafort's longtime deputy. Manafort's defense is looking to undermine Gates' credibility and blame him for any crimes.

Downing pressed Gates on his own lies to special counsel Robert Mueller's investigators, an extramarital affair and hundreds of thousands of dollars he admitted to embezzling from his former boss.

Gates has told jurors he and Manafort spent years carrying out a vast tax-evasion and bank fraud conspiracy involving millions of dollars.

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6:30 p.m.

The judge presiding over Paul Manafort's fraud trial is questioning how closely the former Trump campaign chairman kept track of his finances.

That's a key issue in the trial. Defense lawyers say Manafort left tax and banking details to his deputy, Rick Gates, while prosecutors say Manafort was intimately involved in his own finances.

The comment by Judge T.S. Ellis III came Tuesday as Gates testified about Manafort's knowledge about his political consulting firm shifting money among offshore accounts.

Gates said Manafort "was pretty good about knowing where the money is." That prompted Ellis to note that Manafort was unaware that Gates had embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars, possibly millions, from Manafort's firm.

Ellis said Manafort didn't monitor that money "that closely."

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5:10 p.m.

The star witness at former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort's fraud trial says he stole from his former boss because of personal struggles.

Asked Tuesday why he embezzled from Manafort, Rick Gates said he was living beyond his means. He said he made a mistake and is taking responsibility for it.

Gates' response came as Manafort's lawyer, Kevin Downing asked whether Gates was using embezzled funds to pay for a relationship he had outside his marriage. Gates denied this.

Gates reluctantly admitted he engaged in embezzlement under extensive questioning from Downing. Initially Gates referred to "unauthorized transactions."

When Downing asked him why he wouldn't say "embezzlement," Gates replied: "What difference does it make."

He finally acknowledged: "It was embezzlement from Mr. Manafort."

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4:30 p.m.

Paul Manafort's trial came to an abrupt standstill after defense lawyers sought to question star witness Rick Gates about his time on President Donald Trump's campaign.

Gates was undergoing an aggressive cross-examination from Manafort's lawyer, Kevin Downing, when Downing asked Gates whether special counsel Robert Mueller's investigators had interviewed Gates about the campaign.

That prompted an objection from prosecutors and a sidebar conference. After several minutes of discussion away from the jury and the public, U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III called for a 30-minute break.

In general, references to Trump at the two-week trial have been few and far between. Both sides agreed ahead of time to limit discussion of the campaign so as not to prejudice the jury.

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4:25 p.m.

The government's star witness in the Paul Manafort trial says it's possible he submitted personal expenses for reimbursement to President Donald Trump's inaugural committee.

Rick Gates made the acknowledgement under cross examination. Gates was involved in the planning of the inauguration.

Manafort attorney Kevin Downing is also pressing Gates on his admission earlier in the trial that he had embezzled money from Manafort.

Downing is also suggesting Gates had a "secret life" involving a flat in London. In response, Gates says he had an extramarital affair and the London flat was used for that purpose.

Gates was given a list of $3 million in wire transfers that he received but struggled to say which were legitimate and which were not.

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4:05 p.m.

A lawyer for Paul Manafort has suggested to the government's star witness that he has "told so many lies that you can't even remember them."

Rick Gates began a challenging cross-examination Tuesday as Manafort's lawyer, Kevin Downing, pressed him on his own lies to the special counsel's office and to embezzlement that he admitted to earlier in the trial.

Gates acknowledged he had to plead guilty to false statements after lying during a February interview with federal investigators.

He said "there's no question I struggled to get all the information out."

He struggled under cross-examination to remember exactly what he had admitted to during interviews with investigators.

At one point, Downing asked him, "Have they confronted you with so many lies that you can't even remember them."

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2:35 p.m.

Prosecutors have finished questioning Paul Manafort's longtime deputy in his financial fraud trial.

Defense lawyers are preparing to cross-examine Rick Gates, the government's star witness against the former Trump campaign chairman.

Gates is expected to face tough questions from Manafort's defense team as they've sought to paint him as a liar, embezzler and instigator of any illegal conduct.

They are hoping to rebut hours of testimony Gates gave laying the blame for tax evasion and bank fraud at Manafort's feet.

Gates has told jurors that he spent years fabricating documents, disguising income as loans and helping conceal millions of dollars in offshore accounts from the IRS. Gates says all of those crimes were done at Manafort's direction.

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2:30 p.m.

Paul Manafort asked for tickets to President Donald Trump's inauguration so he could give them to a banker involved in approving a loan at the center of his financial fraud trial.

That's according to testimony from Rick Gates, Manafort's longtime deputy. Gates also says Manafort floated banker Stephen Calk's name for a Trump administration post.

Gates says Manafort asked him in an email about the tickets and suggested that Calk be considered as secretary of the Army in the Trump administration.

The email exchange occurred after Manafort left the Trump campaign but while Gates was active on the Trump inauguration committee.

Prosecutors had previously said that Manafort's interactions with Calk were the only part of the financial fraud trial to overlap with his Trump campaign role.

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2:05 p.m.

Prosecutors want the judge in Paul Manafort's fraud trial to let them show evidence his businesses failed to file federal foreign bank account reports detailing hidden assets abroad.

Attorneys for special counsel Robert Mueller's office say in a court filing that Manafort's defense lawyers opened the door to such evidence by repeatedly referring to complex rules governing the required reporting of foreign bank account reports, known as FBARs (EFF-BARS).

Prosecutors want to show that the former Trump campaign chairman didn't file any FBARs detailing accounts owned by his businesses, Davis Manafort Partners and DMP International.

The filing comes after a special agent with the Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network testified Monday that neither Manafort nor his wife personally submitted the paperwork as required by law.

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1:25 p.m.

Rick Gates says he repeatedly submitted fake financial documents at the behest of his boss, Paul Manafort.

Gates also says the former Trump campaign chairman repeatedly voiced concerns that he was paying too much in taxes and, later, that his funds were drying up.

In one note described to the jury, Gates says Manafort wrote "WTF" and "not happy" about tax payments he was going to have to make.

Gates told jurors how he helped Manafort convert foreign income into loans as a way to reduce his tax bill. He says he later helped draft sham loan agreements and loan forgiveness letters.

The testimony has bolstered the prosecution's tax-evasion and fraud case against Manafort. Manafort's attorneys will cross-examine Gates later Tuesday. They have sought to paint Gates as the instigator of any criminal conduct.

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11:15 a.m.

Rick Gates says he was interviewed by the FBI in 2014 as part of a forfeiture investigation being done by Ukrainian authorities and the FBI.

Gates told jurors under questioning Tuesday that he did not believe at the time that he or Paul Manafort, who was also interviewed, were the focus of that investigation.

Gates says Manafort instructed him to travel to France to notify a Ukrainian businessman that the FBI wanted to interview them and to get more information about his business.

Manafort's lawyers have said he was interviewed multiple times by the FBI. The asset-recovery investigation came after the fall of Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, who employed Manafort for years.

Yanukovych and his officials have been accused of misappropriating tens of millions of dollars in Ukrainian assets.

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10:35 a.m.

Paul Manafort's one-time protege has described for jurors how millions of dollars flowed from entities controlled by Ukrainian businessmen into Manafort's bank accounts in Cyprus.

Rick Gates returned to the witness stand Tuesday as the government's star witness in Manafort's financial fraud trial in Alexandria, Virginia.

Gates said Manafort was paid for Ukrainian political consulting work, but that the money was classified as loans instead of income. He told jurors Manafort classified the money that way to decrease his taxable income. Gates says he didn't report the money as income to Manafort's bookkeeper or accountants.

Gates looked directly at prosecutor Greg Andres as he fielded questions. Manafort sometimes looked at Gates but also appeared to stare intently at documents displayed for the jury and on a screen in front of him.

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9:45 a.m.

The star witness for the government in Paul Manafort's financial fraud trial is returning to the witness stand.

Rick Gates, the longtime deputy of the former Trump campaign chairman, is continuing to relate the crimes he says he committed with Manafort.

Gates resumed his testimony Tuesday, a day after telling jurors how he helped Manafort hide millions of dollars in offshore accounts from the IRS and later aided him in fraudulently obtaining bank loans. Gates also admitted to embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort.

Gates is testifying as part of a plea deal he made with the government earlier this year. Manafort faces the potential of spending the rest of his life in prison.

Manafort's defense has sought to blame Gates for any crimes.

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12:25 a.m.

The star witness in the financial fraud trial of President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman is set to return to the witness stand after telling jurors he himself embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from his old boss.

Rick Gates is expected on Tuesday to continue describing the ins-and-outs of defendant Paul Manafort's finances, including what prosecutors say was an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and fraud scheme.

Gates is almost guaranteed to face withering cross-examination by Manafort's defense attorneys, who are seeking to blame any crimes on Manafort's onetime associate.

On Monday, Gates calmly acknowledged having embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort by filing false expense reports. He said the two committed crimes together by stashing money in foreign bank accounts and falsifying bank loan documents.

FILE - In this Feb. 23, 2018, file photo, Rick Gates leaves federal court in Washington. Paul Manafort's trial opened this week with a display of his opulent lifestyle and testimony about what prosecutors say were years of financial deception. But the most critical moment in the former Trump campaign chairman's financial fraud trial will arrive next week with the testimony of his longtime associate Gates.(AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)

Kathleen Manafort, center, wife of Paul Manafort, walks to the Alexandria Federal Courthouse in Alexandria, Va., Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, for his trial on tax evasion and bank fraud. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh). (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

Kevin Downing, attorney for Paul Manafort, walks to the Alexandria Federal Courthouse in Alexandria, Va., Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, for President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman Manafort's tax evasion and bank fraud trial. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

Kevin Downing, attorney for Paul Manafort, walks to the Alexandria Federal Courthouse in Alexandria, Va., Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, for President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman Manafort's tax evasion and bank fraud trial. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

Accountant Cindy Laporta arrives at the Alexandria Federal Courthouse, Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, in Alexandria, Va. to testify at President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman Paul Manafort's tax evasion and bank fraud trial. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
LOS ANGELES (AP) - A motorist was killed in a car-to-car shooting and then his car rolled over a pedestrian, killing him, Los Angeles police said Tuesday.

The shooter's vehicle struck and critically wounded a bicyclist as it sped away Monday night in the Baldwin Hills area, Officer Mike Lopez said. Investigators haven't identified a motive.

The wounded motorist, 20-year-old Harrison Kristol of Los Angeles, died at the scene, the coroner's office said.

The name of the pedestrian killed by Kristol's car, also a man in his 20s, was withheld pending family notification.

The bicyclist was hospitalized in critical condition, officials said.

Bridgette May told KNBC-TV she heard three shots at around 8:30 p.m. in the residential neighborhood. She stopped to help an uninjured woman get out of Kristol's car.

The passenger told her they were coming from a grocery store when "somebody drove by and started shooting at them," May said.

Police described the suspect's vehicle as a light-colored sedan.

Commuter train service was disrupted during the investigation. Passengers were transported around a nearby train station in buses.
HONOLULU (AP) - Students from Hawaii have gathered with students in Japan at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima to remember the atomic bombings and to promote peace.

Two students each from Punahou School and Farrington High School in Honolulu traveled to Japan as peace scholars for the anniversary of the Aug. 6, 1945 U.S. bombing of Hiroshima, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported Monday.

Hawaii residents Hiromi Peterson and Naomi Hirano-Omizo, who wrote "Adventures in Japanese," have funded the Hiroshima Peace Scholars program with their royalties from the Japanese-language textbooks, which are used in high schools across the U.S.

The project by the two longtime Punahou School teachers entered its 10th year and selected two public school students for the first time in addition to the Punahou students.

The four students plus a teacher traveled to a sister school in Hiroshima to forge links for peace with other students.

Peterson was born in Hiroshima three years after the blast. Hirano-Omizo, the granddaughter of a Japanese immigrant, grew up on the Big Island.

"I hear the same words from both Pearl Harbor victims and Hiroshima victims: 'I just don't want the same thing to happen to anyone else,'" Peterson said. "If we pass our message to the young people, I hope the seeds of peace will come up, here and there. At least it's better than doing nothing."

The students stay with Japanese families, speak with survivors and attend the memorial.

"This is a really good way to not forget about what happened, to come to an understanding and be able to move forward instead of having history repeat itself," Punahou senior Eden Chun said last week before leaving for the 10-day trip.

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Information from: Honolulu Star-Advertiser, http://www.staradvertiser.com
Moving comes with a long, expensive to-do list.

The average cost for a local move from a two-bedroom apartment or three-bedroom house ranges from $400 to $1,000, according to HomeAdvisor's True Cost Guide . While you're choosing a place to live and deciding what to pack, having a plan for expenses can ensure your budget doesn't get lost in the shuffle.

"It's very easy to overlook minor details because when you're moving, you're looking at getting your stuff from point A to point B," says Jessica Nichols, a director at Avail Move Management, a relocation and transportation service in Evansville, Indiana.

FILE - In this Aug. 17, 2011 file photo, Tony Lang carries a box while moving in to the new Likins Hall dorm at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Ariz. Moving to a new place can be taxing, emotionally and financially. Preparing a budget can help. Aside from the cost of hiring movers, consider less-obvious expenses like packing materials, furniture covers and storage. (Dean Knuth/Arizona Daily Star via AP)

Preparing for moving costs can help alleviate emotional and financial strain. Consider these less-obvious expenses.

1. PEAK SURCHARGES

Many moving and truck rental companies raise rates during busy times like summer and weekends. If you have the flexibility, relocate in an off-peak period to save money.

2. PACKING MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

Buying items like boxes, bubble wrap and packing tape can add up. For example, U-Haul sells large moving boxes for $1.63 to $1.99 each, depending on how many you buy. Be realistic about the number you need. Or seek free materials from friends or online.

Additionally, consider the items you'll need to safely transport your belongings, including furniture covers, hand trucks and bungee cords. If your movers don't provide them, or you aren't hiring professionals, renting or borrowing is more affordable than buying.

3. EXCESS CARGO

The more stuff you schlep, the more you'll pay. Movers usually factor the number and weight of items into the bill. Expect additional fees for valuable or large items like pianos that require extra time, space or labor.

Hauling everything yourself? A bigger load can require a larger vehicle or more gas-guzzling trips. To save money, donate or sell what you can before you move.

4. CLEANING

You'll likely need to tidy up your current place, especially if there's a security deposit at stake.

Housecleaning services typically charge $200 to $300 for a one-time cleaning, according to HomeAdvisor. You'll save money by doing some or all of the work yourself.

5. UTILITIES

Watch for deposits, taxes, and connection and installation fees when setting up utilities at your new address. These could range from $10 to $200 or more. Ask power, internet and other service providers about charges in advance.

6. FOOD

Food expenses can pop up, too. Think snacks for the road, restocking the refrigerator and pantry, and feeding friends who've helped. Shopping wholesale clubs could be a smart strategy to feed a crowd.

7. LOST OR DAMAGED ITEMS

Some belongings might not survive the journey. Depending on what you're transporting and how far, it may be worth purchasing protection to repair or replace property.

"Nobody wants to think about their items getting broken. Ideally that would never happen, but in the real world that's something you need to plan for," says Nichols.

Most movers provide basic valuation coverage, which limits their liability to 60 cents per pound, per item. For a 40-pound TV valued at $500, that's $24. Top-tier options and separate insurance plans offer higher or full values, but it will cost extra. If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you likely have some coverage. Check your policy.

8. TIPS

Movers appreciate tips after a long day of heavy lifting. Give tips based on your satisfaction level, but a good rule of thumb is 5 percent of the total bill.

9. STORAGE

If you can't immediately move your possessions into your new home, you might have to rent a self-storage unit. Costs vary by size and location. Public Storage units in Austin, Texas, for example, range from about $30 to $300 per month. The less time and space you need, the less expensive the unit.

MAKE YOUR BUDGET MOVE-IN READY

Mentally walk through your moving process from start to finish. Outline the potential items and services you'll need at least a month ahead. Then, research prices and get multiple estimates for the best deals and service, Nichols says.

Leave wiggle room for unexpected costs and take your time purchasing new home furnishings, says Daria Victorov, a certified financial planner at Abacus Wealth Partners in San Mateo, California. Remember, you don't have to buy everything at once.

"When you move into an empty house it feels like you need everything right away," Victorov says. "Before you move, figure out what those essential items are, the things that you use every day, and that'll help you figure out your budget, too."

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This article was provided to The Associated Press by the personal finance website NerdWallet. Lauren Schwahn is a writer at NerdWallet. Email: lschwahn@nerdwallet.com. Twitter: @lauren_schwahn.

RELATED LINKS:

NerdWallet: How to create a budget

https://nerd.me/how-to-build-budget

HomeAdvisor: How much are average moving costs?

https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/storage-and-organization/hire-a-moving-service/

FILE- In this July 13, 2012, file photo, people load a U-Haul truck with boxes while they prepare to move in York, Pa. Moving to a new place can be taxing, emotionally and financially. Preparing a budget can help. (Chris Dunn/York Daily Record via AP)
MOSCOW (AP) - Funerals have been held in Moscow for three Russian journalists who were killed during a reporting trip in Central African Republic.

Orkhan Dzhemal, Alexander Rastorguyev and Kirill Radchenko were shot last week while investigating a Russian military contractor and Russia's interests in the African country's mining industries. Their funerals in Russia took place Tuesday.

Exiled Russian opposition figure Mikhail Khodorkovsky, who financed the journalists' work, said the reporters were looking into a private security firm, known as Wagner, which operates in CAR.

A woman holds a portrait of journalist Alexander Rastorguyev, who was killed in the Central African Republic (CAR), during funeral ceremony in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. Three Russian journalists had been working on an investigation into Russian private military contractors and the mining industries in CAR, their editor said, when they were ambushed and killed outside the town of Sibut in CAR. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin)

The Russian company is linked to Yevgeny Prigozhin, a St. Petersburg entrepreneur dubbed "Putin's chef" because his restaurants hosted President Vladimir Putin's dinners with foreign dignitaries.

Central African Republic officials said men wearing turbans and speaking Arabic ambushed the journalists as they traveled by car at night.

A woman holds a portrait of journalist Alexander Rastorguyev, who was killed in the Central African Republic (CAR), during funeral ceremony in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. Three Russian journalists had been working on an investigation into Russian private military contractors and the mining industries in CAR, their editor said, when they were ambushed and killed outside the town of Sibut in CAR. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin)

Relatives and friends of journalist Alexander Rastorguyev, who was killed in the Central African Republic (CAR), hold his portrait during funeral ceremony in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. Three Russian journalists had been working on an investigation into Russian private military contractors and the mining industries in CAR, their editor said, when they were ambushed and killed outside the town of Sibut in CAR. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin)

Relatives and friends of journalist Orkhan Dzhemal, who was killed in the Central African Republic, (CAR), carry his coffin during funeral ceremony in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. Three Russian journalists had been working on an investigation into Russian private military contractors and the mining industries in CAR, their editor said, when they were ambushed and killed outside the town of Sibut in CAR.(AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin)

Muslim clerics pray over the coffin of journalist Orkhan Dzhemal, who was killed in the Central African Republic, (CAR), carry his coffin during funeral ceremony in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. Three Russian journalists had been working on an investigation into Russian private military contractors and the mining industries in CAR, their editor said, when they were ambushed and killed outside the town of Sibut in CAR. (AP Photo/Pavel Golovkin)
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) - A North Dakota judge has refused to reopen a lawsuit that state regulators filed against a North Carolina-based private security firm accused of using heavy-handed tactics against people protesting the $3.8 billion Dakota Access oil pipeline.

Judge John Grinsteiner's decision Monday ends the yearlong dispute in state district court, but doesn't resolve a disagreement over whether TigerSwan was conducting work that required a license in North Dakota.

North Dakota's Private Investigative and Security Board plans to appeal the case's dismissal to the state Supreme Court, attorney Monte Rogneby said. Should that fail, the board can still pursue tens of thousands of dollars in fines against TigerSwan through an administrative process.

TigerSwan attorney Lynn Boughey said an appeal would be "a waste of time and money."

Texas-based Energy Transfer Partners hired TigerSwan to handle security in 2016 and 2017 as thousands of pipeline opponents who feared environmental harm gathered in North Dakota to protest the project. The protests resulted in 761 arrests by law enforcement over six months.

In June 2017, the North Dakota board sued TigerSwan, alleging it operated illegally because it didn't have a state license, and Rogneby has said the goal of the lawsuit was "to protect the public interest." The board wanted Grinsteiner to ban TigerSwan from operating in North Dakota and also levy fines. The lawsuit was filed following criticism by pipeline opponents that TigerSwan used heavy-handed tactics and propaganda against protesters. TigerSwan said it was a victim of a smear campaign.

TigerSwan maintained that within North Dakota's borders it provided only consulting services to ETP that don't require a North Dakota license. It said it conducted all its investigative work in North Carolina, which is outside the board's jurisdiction. It said it didn't provide on-the-ground security services.

In April, Grinsteiner declined to issue a ban, and in May he dismissed the rest of the case, ruling that any decision on possible fines was a regulatory function of the board and outside of the court's purview.

The board asked him to reconsider in court filings and during a July 24th hearing, but Grinsteiner wasn't swayed, saying in part the board merely repeated earlier arguments that had already been addressed and was "not now entitled to a second bite at the apple."

The pipeline that ETP maintains is safe eventually was finished and has been moving North Dakota oil to a shipping point in Illinois since June last year.

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Follow Blake Nicholson on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/NicholsonBlake
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) - NASCAR needed 99 races for budding superstar Chase Elliott to finally win his first Cup race and didn't even get a full day to celebrate the milestone.

NASCAR Chairman Brian France has taken a leave from his family owned company following his arrest Sunday night on charges of driving while intoxicated and criminal possession of oxycodone . France blew through a stop sign in Sag Harbor, New York, police said, not long after Elliott crossed the finish line some 350 miles away in Watkins Glen.

Police said at the time he was pulled over France struggled to keep his balance during field sobriety tests, his eyes were red and glassy, and tests showed his blood-alcohol content was nearly twice New York's legal limit. Officers found five oxycodone pills during a subsequent search, police said.

FILE - In this May 23, 2018, file photo, NASCAR Chairman Brian France watches a video of driver Jeff Gordon after after announcing Gordon will be inducted into the 2019 class of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, in Charlotte, N.C. NASCAR chairman Brian France has been arrested in New York's Hamptons for driving while intoxicated and criminal possession of oxycodone. France was arrested at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018, and held overnight. He was arraigned Monday at Sag Harbor Village Justice Court and released. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton, File)

The head of the most popular racing series in the U.S. spent the night in jail - a punch to the gut for a series reeling from slumping attendance and television ratings, and a decline in blockbuster sponsorship deals. France shifted the attention away from Elliott's victory, which signified a passing of the torch and a rare feel-good moment at a time of almost constant negativity in NASCAR .

Jim France, uncle to Brian France, has assumed the interim titles of Chairman and CEO and is assisted by Lesa France Kennedy, Brian's sister.

A day after the shake-up, few seemed concerned about the direction of NASCAR with Brian France sidelined.

"Lesa and Jim are going to do a great job," Denny Hamlin said Tuesday. "I'm confident in the leadership of NASCAR. I know all of the executives really, really well. I get invited into some very intense meetings with them at times, and am very confident that those guys can take the reins and do a great job."

Because NASCAR is privately owned and run in large part by Brian France, Jim France and Lesa France Kennedy, there is no clear indication of how hands-on Brian France was or what kind of void his absence will create. The stakeholders are hopeful Jim France, the second son of NASCAR's founder, can be a steadying hand in trying times for the series.

"We've got to look to our sport's future, what we can change and what we can do next," said Kyle Busch. "Brian's been our leader for a long time. Look forward now to the opportunity to have Jim France in there."

Jim France and Lesa France Kennedy have always been in the mix of both NASCAR and International Speedway Corp., but the role of face of the family fell to Brian. He's the grandson of founder Bill France Sr. and replaced his father, Bill France Jr., as head of NASCAR in 2003.

Brian France took charge during a time the sport was booming in popularity and sponsors were beating down the door to get their logos on a race car. Although many of Brian France's initiatives were progressive and needed in some form, staunch fans have vehemently rejected his vision.

Brian France introduced a playoff system, overhauled the design of the series' cars and pushed for diversity within the circuit's predominantly white, male ranks.

But as viewership has declined, sponsors have pulled out of NASCAR and Brian France has not made himself available to the public. He appeared increasingly detached from NASCAR over the past several seasons and is rarely seen at a race. Aside from an occasional random call to SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Brian France has said almost nothing about NASCAR's woes this season.

His lack of engagement created a logjam at the top of NASCAR. Chief Operating Officer Steve Phelps and executive vice president Steve O'Donnell have tried to clean up NASCAR's mess, but they have been handcuffed like many NASCAR executives by an absence of leadership at the very top. Both Jim France and Lesa France Kennedy have become more involved this year and had privately been picking up the slack for Brian France.

If the rest of the France family is taking charge, the message needs to be delivered publicly, said Ramsey Poston, who spent more than 10 years as a communications executive for NASCAR.

"It will be important for NASCAR leadership to reassure key partners that the sport is in good hands and is positively moving forward," said Poston, who is now president of consulting firm Tuckahoe Strategies. "Very quickly, Jim France and others should be working on a plan to restore confidence in the sport and roll out a definitive vision for the future."

It's not likely to happen soon as Jim France and Lesa France Kennedy are not accustomed to public roles. So neither said anything as of Tuesday, and the attention instead was steered back toward Elliott. He was greeted by several hundred supporters Sunday night when his plane landed in Georgia, which he touched on during a national conference call conducted by NASCAR.

As for the off-track news that usurped his victory?

"I haven't ever had any issues with Jim," Elliott said. "I expect them to do fine, and it doesn't change my job, so I'm going to do my thing."

So it is basically business as usual for NASCAR, and that's exactly the way it should be, said longtime France family adversary Bruton Smith. Owner of rival company Speedway Motorsports Inc., Smith sparred with Bill France Jr. during his 31-year leadership reign, but has a better relationship with Brian France.

"Our sport is big, big, big and it's bigger than just one person," Smith said. "We go forward. We have to in this sport. At this point in time, NASCAR needs friends and people that will help. It's a great sport and we go forward and we all should be very protective of it and be willing to lend a helping hand."

Smith also noted France's arrest gave NASCAR an opportunity to make a change after years of race fans calling for the ouster of Brian France.

"They were catching a lot of heat by not doing something," Smith said.

But Felix Sabates, who has had at least partial ownership of a top-level NASCAR team since 1989, believes Brian France has been unfairly blamed for the downturn in the series. He said the entire industry shoulders blame for NASCAR's slide, and owners and drivers have combined to drive operating costs through the roof.

"I think NASCAR, owners and drivers need to get on the same page to reverse the trend, and everyone has to share in the responsibility," Sabates said, arguing Brian France deserves a spot in the sport when he decides to return.

"We need to find it in our hearts to forgive Brian for his mistakes," Sabates said. "Whenever he finishes what he needs to do, we all at NASCAR need to welcome him back with open arms. There is a side of Brian most people don't see. He is fun to be with, he knows as many funny jokes as his daddy, he is very charitable. He is a very simple person."

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Hank Kurz Jr. in Richmond, Virginia, and Pete Iacobelli in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, contributed to this report.

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More AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/tag/apf-AutoRacing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports

FILE - In this Nov. 19, 2017, file photo, Brian France, NASCAR Chairman, ponders a question during a news conference at Homestead-Miami Speedway in Homestead, Fla. NASCAR chairman Brian France has been arrested in New York's Hamptons for driving while intoxicated and criminal possession of oxycodone. France was arrested at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018, and held overnight. He was arraigned Monday at Sag Harbor Village Justice Court and released. (AP Photo/Terry Renna, File)

FILE - In this Jan. 23, 2017, file photo, Brian France, Chairman of NASCAR, gives opening remarks prior to an announcement of NASCAR's approach to modernizing its series with a new format, in Charlotte, N.C. NASCAR chairman Brian France has been arrested in New York's Hamptons for driving while intoxicated and criminal possession of oxycodone. France was arrested at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 5, 2018, and held overnight. He was arraigned Monday at Sag Harbor Village Justice Court and released. (Jeff Siner/The Charlotte Observer via AP, File)
Sometimes Alfred Wilson still has to take a moment to collect himself after he pulls open files at the law firm where he works and sees Heather Heyer's handwriting.

"I get choked up and have to gather myself before I talk to the client," said Wilson, who hired Heyer, the 32-year-old paralegal killed nearly a year ago in a car attack during a violent white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

The rally that left Heyer dead and dozens more injured proved to be a watershed moment, both for the racist, fringe "alt-right" movement, and for the city itself. In the year since, many residents like Wilson say the wounds haven't healed. Others say the violence has laid bare divisions over deeper issues of race and economic inequality and what should be done to move forward.

In this Monday, Aug. 6, 2018 photo, Susan Bro, mother of Heather Heyer, who was killed during the Unite the Right rally last year, looks over memorabilia in her office in Charlottesville, Va. "I just would like people to focus on the anniversary, not on Heather, but on the issues that she died for, Black Lives Matter, overpolicing, affordable housing, for more truth and the telling of the history of Charlottesville, and to focus on where they need to go as a community," Bro said. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

"One of my hugest gripes with last year with the people of this town was that people, mostly white folks, kept saying, 'This isn't Charlottesville,'" said Brenda Brown-Grooms, a local pastor and activist. "I wonder what planet they live on. This is exactly who we are."

A Charlottesville native, born in the segregated basement of the University of Virginia hospital, Brown-Grooms said white supremacy was present in Charlottesville long before the rally and is the "elephant in the room" the city now must deal with.

Activists have pushed leadersto address the city's legacies of racism and slavery, its affordable housing crunch and the police department's relationship with the black community, among other issues, since the Aug. 12 rally.

The event was one of the largest gatherings of white nationalists and far-right extremists in a decade. Many participants dressed as if they were headed to battle, shouted racist slurs and clashed violently with counterprotesters. Meanwhile, authorities largely stood by on the fringes of the action near a downtown park with a statue of Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee that the city wanted to remove.

The crowd was eventually forced to disperse but a car that authorities say was driven by a man fascinated with Adolf Hitler later plowed into a crowd of peaceful counterprotesters. The day's death toll rose to three when a state police helicopter that had been monitoring the event and assisting with the governor's motorcade crashed, killing two troopers.

In the year since, the city has taken steps toward meeting some of the activists' demands, despite resistance on some issues from the Republican-controlled state legislature . Lawmakers defeated every bill Charlottesville supported in the rally's aftermath, including measures dealing with cities' abilities to remove Confederate monuments.

Responding in part to calls for a closer look at stop-and-frisk policies that disproportionately affect black residents, the city established a new Police Civilian Review Board. The city also has approved funds for affordable housing and workforce development.

Meanwhile, there's been a churn in leadership. The city attorney took a new job, the city manager's contract was not renewed, a spokeswoman quit and the police chief, 50 at the time, retired after less than two years on the job.

The five-person city council has two new faces, and the group picked a different mayor, Nikuyah Walker, a black woman who ran as an independent in the staunchly Democratic town and was previously one of the council's strongest critics.

Walker has clashed publicly with other council members on multiple issues, such as hiring an interim city manager. She recently took to social media to criticize the candidate, the way he was selected and her fellow councilors' behavior.

The council's drama doesn't seem to affect most residents, who "just go on with our lives and watch with quiet amusement," said Charles "Buddy" Weber, an attorney and longtime resident involved in a lawsuit seeking to stop the city from removing the Lee monument. Weber emphasized that not everyone in Charlottesville agrees on the extent and nature of the city's problems.

While the city's been struggling to find its footing, some alt-right leaders are faltering. The rally violence proved a costly debacle for leading figures such as white nationalist Richard Spencer and others who are fighting lawsuits. Many in the movement have been booted from mainstream internet platforms. A few have dropped out altogether.

Only one organizer of last summer's rally seems intent on publicly marking the anniversary. Jason Kessler, a Charlottesville resident and UVA graduate, sued the city after it denied him a permit for an anniversary event. Kessler recently abandoned his lawsuit, but he vowed to press ahead with plans for an Aug. 12 rally in Washington, D.C.

During an interview this summer, Kessler said he was still "coming to terms" with what happened last year and said he apologized to Heyer's family.

But he struck a far more defiant tone when a city attorney questioned him last month. Kessler said during a deposition that he had no regrets or remorse about his role and takes no responsibility for the violence.

While Kessler's plans for the anniversary weekend have shifted, many residents say they're bracing for some sort of white nationalist presence. Officials and law enforcement authorities insist that whatever happens, they will be better prepared. An investigation by a former U.S. attorney found a lack of planning, poor communication and a passive response by law enforcement added to last year's chaos.

Michael Rodi, owner of a downtown restaurant-nightclub, told city and law enforcement officials at a forum for the business community that "if we can make this thing fizzle, the rest of the world looks at us and goes, 'Oh, you're not Nazi Central.'"

Heyer's mother, Susan Bro, who's spent much of the past year working with Wilson on a foundation named for her daughter, said she plans to place flowers Sunday at the site of the attack that claimed Heyer's life. But the day should be about more than just Heyer, Bro said.

"I just would like people to focus on the anniversary, not on Heather, but on the issues that she died for - Black Lives Matter, overpolicing, affordable housing, for more truth and the telling of the history of Charlottesville - and to focus on where they need to go as a community," Bro said.

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Associated Press writer Michael Kunzelman in Silver Spring, Maryland, and AP photographer Steve Helber in Charlottesville contributed to this report. Rankin reported from Richmond and Charlottesville.

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For the complete AP coverage marking one year since the rally in Charlottesville, visit https://apnews.com/tag/CharlottesvilleAYearLater .

In this Monday, Aug. 6, 2018 photo, a statue of Thomas Jefferson is surrounded by fencing and a No Trespassing sign in front of the rotunda on the campus of the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Va. The statue was the focal point of a clash between torch carrying white nationalists and students the night before the white nationalist rally in downtown Charlottesville that ended in the death of three people. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

In this Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, photo, a visitor eats lunch in front of a statue of Robert E. Lee that is surrounded by fencing and a No Trespassing sign in Charlottesville, Va., at the park that was the focus of the Unite the Right rally. In the year since, many residents say the wounds haven't healed and others say the violence has laid bare a disagreement about deeper issues of race and economic inequality and what should be done to move forward. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

In this Monday, Aug. 6, 2018 photo, Susan Bro, mother of Heather Heyer, who was killed during the Unite the Right rally last year, looks over memorabilia in her office in Charlottesville, Va. "I just would like people to focus on the anniversary, not on Heather, but on the issues that she died for, Black Lives Matter, overpolicing, affordable housing, for more truth and the telling of the history of Charlottesville, and to focus on where they need to go as a community," Bro said. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

In this Monday, Aug. 6, 2018 photo, statue of Thomas Jefferson is surrounded by fencing and a No Trespassing sign in front of the rotunda on the campus of the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Va. The statue was the focal point of a clash between torch carrying white nationalists and students the night before the white nationalist rally in downtown Charlottesville that ended in the death of three people. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)
Imran Khan, chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, speaks during an event in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan, on Aug. 6, 2018. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), or the Movement for Justice party, on Monday formally nominated its chief Imran Khan as the candidate for the office of the prime minister, party officials said. (Xinhua/PTI)

ISLAMABAD, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), or the Movement for Justice party, on Monday formally nominated its chief Imran Khan as the candidate for the office of the prime minister, party officials said.

PTI emerged as the single largest party in the parliamentary elections on July 25 and the elected members of the National Assembly met here on Monday to nominate leaders for the top positions including the prime minister, parliamentary speaker and deputy speaker.

Vice Chairman of PTI Shah Mahmood Qureshi presented a resolution to name Imran Khan as prime minister, which was adopted unanimously by lawmakers at the meeting.

The PTI chief urged the parliamentary party to adopt austerity measures to save nation's wealth, which will be spent on people's welfare.

No date for the swearing in of the next prime minister has yet been announced, however, official sources have said Imran Khan is likely to take oath on Aug. 15.

On the other hand, the opposition Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) party on Monday announced to field Shahbaz Sharif, the younger brother of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, as its candidate to challenge Imran Khan.

PML-N spokesperson Maryam Aurangzeb told reporters that all opposition parties will support Shahbaz Sharif in the election for the prime minister.

PTI spokesman Fawad Chaudhry says his party has secured the support of the parliamentarians required to elect its candidate. He told reporters that PTI expects support of more independent candidates.
MONROE, N.C. (AP) - A 9-year-old entrepreneur whose lemonade stand was robbed of $17 has since received more than $200 in donations and a new ride-on lawn mower worth $1,100.

The young salesman, whose first name is Mark, told sheriff's deputies he was held up at gunpoint Saturday while selling lemonade at a traffic circle not far from the entrance to his community in Monroe, about 30 miles (50 kilometers) southeast of Charlotte.

Investigators were still searching Tuesday for a male suspect, said Union County Sheriff's Office spokesman Tony Underwood.

CORRECTS TO A BOY, NOT A TEENAGER - This Saturday, Aug. 4 2018, photo provided by James Castellano, of Monroe, N.C., shows a drink he bought from a boy, background, in Monroe. A teenager who held up the North Carolina lemonade stand for $17 was still at large Monday, Aug. 6, and authorities said they hoped to track him through surveillance footage and possible DNA and fingerprint tests. (James Castellano via AP)

A business card that one customer collected from Mark's lemonade stand states he also works as a lawn mower, dog walker and professional ring bearer.

Home-improvement chain Lowe's gave the boy a new, $1,100 riding mower on Monday after spokeswoman Sarah Lively said officials at the company's Charlotte-area headquarters saw news reports about the robbery.

A person who responded to a text sent to the telephone number listed on Mark's business card said Tuesday that the boy was selling lemonade again Sunday at the community pool and collected $256 in donations alone. The person, who identified herself as Mark's mother, declined interview requests from The Associated Press on Tuesday and declined to give the family's last name.

Investigators planned to meet Wednesday with an information technology specialist to download what might be on surveillance cameras outside the community club house, Underwood said.

"We're hoping to get that tip that might help us identify" the suspect, he said.
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (AP) - A Tennessee man's plan to propose to his girlfriend on a Florida beach almost failed when he lost the ring in the Gulf of Mexico.

For 45 minutes last Friday, Taylor Farrar of Sevierville, Tennessee, and his friends frantically searched for the plastic bag that held the ring, a bank card and a driver's license. The News Herald reports it washed up under the feet of Sandy Osborn who was visiting Panama City Beach from Florence, Alabama.

Osborn held onto the bag and happily handed it over when Farrar's friends asked if she'd seen it.

Farrar says he appreciates Osborn's honesty. He immediately proposed to girlfriend Cassandra Arn, who said yes.

Osborn says she cried during the proposal. And Arn invited her to the wedding.

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Information from: The (Panama City, Fla.) News Herald, http://www.newsherald.com
KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) - The Latest on a man convicted of hate crimes after he fatally shot an Indian national and wounded two other men in a Kansas bar (all times local):

11:30 a.m.

A man has been sentenced to three consecutive life sentences on federal hate crime charges for killing an Indian immigrant and wounding two other men in a Kansas bar.

FILE - In this May 15, 2017, file photo, Adam Purinton, charged in the Olathe Austins bar shootings, appears in Division 8 at the Johnson County District Courthouse in Olathe, Kan. The Kansas man who fatally shot an Indian immigrant and wounded another in a suburban Kansas City bar is scheduled to be sentenced Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, on federal hate crime charges. Purinton of Olathe agreed to a plea deal in May that recommended he be sentenced to life in prison on each of three hate crime charges, with the sentences to run consecutively. (David Eulitt/The Kansas City Star via AP, Pool, File)

The Johnson County District Court had already sentenced Adam Purinton to life in prison for first-degree murder in the February 2017 shooting of 32-year-old Srinivas Kuchibhotla at a bar in Olathe. Kuchibhotla had stopped there for a drink with a co-worker who was wounded in the attack. A third man who intervened also was shot.

Purinton reportedly yelled "Get out of my country" at them.

He pleaded guilty in May to federal hate crime and firearm charges to avoid the death penalty. He admitted he shot Kuchibhotla and Alok Madasani because of their race and color.

On Tuesday, the federal court handed Purinton a further three consecutive life sentences.

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23:01 p.m.

A Kansas man who fatally shot an Indian immigrant and wounded another in a suburban Kansas City bar is scheduled to be sentenced Tuesday on federal hate crime charges.

Adam Purinton of Olathe agreed to a plea deal in May that recommended he be sentenced to life in prison on each of three hate crime charges, with the sentences to run consecutively.

Purinton reportedly yelled "Get out of my country" before killing 32-year-old Srinivas Kuchibhotla and wounding Kuchibhotla's friend, Alok Madasani, in February 2017. A third man who tried to intervene was wounded.

The attack raised fears that immigrants faced more violence after President Donald Trump's election and caused concern in India over safety in the U.S.

The 53-year-old Purinton is already serving a life sentence in Kansas for premeditated first-degree murder.
ROME (AP) - Italy's parliament has passed 5-Star Movement-led labor reform that aims to crack down on short-term employment and precarious labor practices, although critics say it will cause many people to lose their jobs.

The law, approved Tuesday afternoon in the Italian Senate, shortens the maximum duration of temporary employment contracts and decreases the number of times an employer can renew such contracts. But a recent report by Italy's social security institute suggested that thousands of workers will lose their jobs because of the new legislation. In addition, the reform includes a crackdown on gambling advertisements.

The new law is known in Italy as "Dignity Decree" and the Senate approved it in a 155-125 with one abstention.
PHOENIX (AP) - A federal appeals court has ruled that a Border Patrol agent who fatally shot a Mexican teen on the other side of the border doesn't have immunity and can be sued by the boy's family for violating his civil rights.

The ruling on Tuesday has wide implications and came almost two years after the agent's attorney argued he was immune from a civil lawsuit because the U.S. Constitution didn't extend to 16-year-old Jose Antonio Elena Rodriguez, who was in Mexico when agent Lonnie Swartz shot him about 10 times through a border fence.

The Border Patrol has said Elena Rodriguez was throwing rocks at Swartz, endangering his life.

FILE - In this Oct. 10, 2014, file photo, a poster in the likeness of Jose Antonio Elena Rodriguez hangs next to a makeshift memorial, where he was fatally shot two years ago by U.S. Border Patrol near the Mexico- U.S border, in Nogales, Mexico. A federal appeals court has ruled that a Border Patrol agent who fatally shot Rodriguez on the other side of the border doesn't have immunity and can be sued by the boy's family. The ruling on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, came almost two years after the agent's attorney argued he was immune from a civil lawsuit because the U.S. constitution didn't extend to the 16 year old Rodriguez. (AP Photo/Valeria Fernandez, File)

The central question in the case is whether Elena Rodriguez was protected by the U.S. Constitution as a Mexican citizen on Mexican soil.

In a very similar case out of Texas, a different appeals court has ruled that a teen boy who was also fatally shot by an agent in a rock-throwing incident was not protected by the constitution. That case made its way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which appeared to be divided on the issue and which sent it back to the lower court without making a decision. The lower court then reaffirmed its decision that the boy wasn't constitutionally protected.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said in its decision that the agent "violated a clearly established constitutional right and is thus not immune from suit."

The conflicting opinions in the different appeals courts, both of which cover cases on the U.S.-Mexico border, could mean the Elena Rodriguez case ends up back in the Supreme Court.

"This ruling is important both as to border shootings specifically, but more generally that the constitution does not have a hard stop at the border," said ACLU attorney Lee Gelernt, who is representing Elena Rodriguez's mother in the civil lawsuit. "It's an enormous victory for the family and I think for the rule of law at the border."

Swartz's attorney, Sean Chapman, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Elena Rodriguez was in the Mexican border town of Nogales near the international border fence when Swartz shot him from Nogales, Arizona, on Oct. 10, 2012.

An autopsy conducted in Mexico showed that Elena Rodriguez was hit about 10 times in the back.

The ACLU filed a lawsuit on behalf of the boy's mother in July 2014.

The case is similar to a 2010 incident when a Border Patrol agent in El Paso, Texas, fatally shot a teenager who was across the border in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.

Agent Jesus Mesa Jr. was trying to arrest immigrants who had illegally crossed into the country when rock-throwers attacked him, according to authorities. Mesa fired across the Rio Grande river, striking 15-year-old Sergio Adrian Hernandez Guereca twice.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals first ruled in favor of Hernandez Guereca's family, then against them, before the case made its way to the Supreme Court last year. The high court sent the case back to the appeals court, saying it was best suited to make a decision, but that court dismissed the lawsuit for a second time in March.
WASHINGTON, Iowa (AP) - An eastern Iowa father has been given nine years in prison following the starvation death of his 17-month-old daughter.

Washington County District Court records show that 37-year-old Anthony McCoy was sentenced Friday in Washington, Iowa. He'd pleaded guilty to two counts of child endangerment and one of involuntary manslaughter in the death of Avery McCoy.

The child weighed just 11 pounds (5 kilograms) when she was found dead in November 2016. An autopsy report said malnutrition and neglect significantly contributed to the girl's death.

Her mother, Ambrashia "Amber" Chrzan, of Wellman, was sentenced last month to 50 years in prison.
BOISE, Idaho (AP) - The U.S. government does not have to turn over documents to an environmental law firm about the legal arguments for President Donald Trump's decision to shrink national monuments, a judge ruled.

U.S. District Judge David Nye said Monday that the records are protected presidential communications.

Boise, Idaho-based firm Advocates for the West had sued for 12 documents withheld from a public records request related to Trump's decision to reduce two sprawling monuments in Utah. Trump also is considering scaling back other monuments.

FILE - This May 8, 2017, file photo shows Arch Canyon within Bears Ears National Monument in Utah. A judge says the U.S. government doesn't have to turn over documents to an environmental law firm about legal arguments behind President Donald Trump's decision to shrink national monuments. U.S. District Judge David Nye ruled Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, that the records are protected presidential communications. (Francisco Kjolseth/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, File)

"This decision shows how difficult it is to force sunlight on a government that flourishes in secrecy," group attorney Todd Tucci said.

The group contends that the documents may justify why former presidents made monuments as large as they did and thus undercut Trump's order in December to shrink Bears Ears and Grand-Staircase Escalante national monuments.

Tucci said the group hasn't decided whether to appeal the decision to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

Justice Department spokesman Andy Reuss said Tuesday that the agency had no comment.

Tucci said the 12 documents, based on dates, appear to relate to national monuments formed or expanded between 2006 and 2016 and written during previous presidential administrations. Likely 12 national monuments are represented, Tucci said.

President Barack Obama created Bears Ears National Monument in 2016, and President Bill Clinton created Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument in 1996. Like other presidents, they cited the 1906 Antiquities Act, which sets guidelines calling for the "smallest area compatible with proper care and management of the objects to be protected."

Trump said he was scaling back the two monuments to reverse federal overreach and had acted within his authority. Past presidents have trimmed national monuments 18 times, but there's never been a court ruling on whether the Antiquities Act also lets them reduce one.

"President Trump's abrupt change in interpretation of the Antiquities Act should be subject to the light of day," Tucci said.

The withheld documents "contain legal advice to the president and his advisers and should remain protected," the judge wrote. "While public disclosure is an important and necessary part of any free society, so too is candor and privacy when those at the highest levels of government strive to determine the best course of action."

The Trump administration is facing other lawsuits from conservation groups, tribes and outdoor retail company Patagonia over the monument reductions in Utah. The groups argue that the president exceeded his power and jeopardized protections for irreplaceable archaeological sites and important lands.

Tucci said those lawsuits aren't likely to result in the 12 documents becoming public.

"I expect the federal government to jealously guard these documents in all future litigation," he said.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) - A Puerto Rico company has been accused of fraud involving a U.S. program that provides tutoring to needy children in struggling schools.

Creative Education and Psychological Services Inc. submitted false invoices for tutoring sessions as it billed taxpayers nearly $25 million over three years, the U.S. attorney's office said Tuesday.

A grand jury indicted the company owner and three employees on charges that include mail fraud and conspiracy to commit theft. Two of the employees entered pleas of not guilty in court Tuesday and were released on bond with restrictions that include being prohibited from working for the Puerto Rico Department of Education or any other place that has federal or state contracts.

Owner Coral Rivera Arroyo was expected to appear in court on Wednesday and the other employee on Aug. 13.

Tutoring services were authorized under the education law known as No Child Left Behind but have been criticized for a lack of oversight.

The indictment says the online tutoring program in Puerto Rico relied on a biometric system to register when students check in and out of tutoring sessions but that it could be bypassed by the contractors.
UNITED NATIONS (AP) - The U.N. says Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has told Zimbabwe's president to ensure that security forces "show maximum restraint" and urged its opposition leader to pursue electoral grievances through legal channels.

U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said Tuesday that the secretary-general phoned President Emmerson Mnangagwa and opposition leader Nelson Chamisa on Monday and told them any legal decision on the election results "would need to be independent."

Haq said Guterres expressed hope that Zimbabweans "will move forward in unity." He reiterated U.N. calls on political leaders and the population "to exercise restraint and to reject any form of violence."

Haq called the calls "constructive," adding: "Certainly our hope is that the reassurances provided by the leaders will be borne out, also by their supporters."
SAO PAULO (AP) - The likely presidential candidate of Brazil's Workers' Party in October's elections pledged on Tuesday to reform the country's media ownership rules as part of efforts to "radicalize Brazil's democracy." He also said the country needs more banks.

Former Sao Paulo Mayor Fernando Haddad is the party's vice presidential candidate, but is widely expected to take over the top of the ticket after electoral bar former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who now leads national polls.

Haddad, known mostly in the country's south, has tried to appeal to the party's base in other parts of the country since polls show him with minimal support so far.

Workers' Party candidate for vice president Fernando Haddad, right, and Manuela D' Avila, a state legislator from the Communist Party of Brazil, raise their arms during a press conference, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. Former Sao Paulo Mayor Haddad will replace jailed former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva if electoral justice bars him to run, in this case, Manuela D' Avila would be the vice president candidate. (AP Photo/Andre Penner)

The former mayor said in a press conference that there aren't enough voices in Brazil's mainstream media, which is owned by a handful of groups. He criticized what he calls "the permission of crossed ownership," which enables TV networks to own newspapers, radios and vice versa.

"The levers of democratic development are credit, both in economic and in political forms. News has to be true and free. We want to radicalize democracy. A radicalization that all developed countries have made," Haddad said. He also criticized allowing politicians to own media.

Members of the Workers' Party often deem Brazil's mainstream media as antagonistic to left-leaning parties and da Silva has said the country's media is on a crusade to keep him in prison and off the ballot.

"It is not possible that there is only one opinion in the media," Haddad told journalists. "This will be the first time that a Workers' Party program will deal with two very serious things for Brazil's democracy: access to credit and access to information."

Da Silva leads polls with more than 30 percent backing. But Haddad until now has been a marginal figure in popularity surveys.

Earlier in a chat with friendly bloggers, Haddad criticized the country's dominant media company, TV Globo.

"Some other day I was watching Globo taking responsibility in an editorial of 2013 for their support of the (1964) military coup. It took 49 years for them to recognize that. Are we going to wait 49 years for them to recognize what they did to Lula? We don't have that time to wait," Haddad said.

Da Silva was jailed in April after a corruption conviction and will stand trial on several other cases. He denies any wrongdoing and promises to appeal every decision against him.
Indonesian national disaster agency said that the death toll had risen to at least 142 with more than 200 people injured. Thousands of houses and multiple buildings were damaged. The tremor also triggered power cuts on the island of Lombok and Gili Trawangan.

A magnitude-7.0 earthquake struck Indonesian popular tourist island of Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara province early Sunday evening. Indonesian authorities lifted a tsunami yellow warning two hours after it was issued.

A parking lot was covered by falling rocks in Bali, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, Aug.5, 2018. Photo: Xinhua

Statistics from the US Geological Survey shows that the powerful earthquake centered in the northern part of Lombok, occurring 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) underground. Most of the people killed were from the northern and western regions of Lombok.

Around 200 Chinese tourists remain on Lombaok, and 37 of them, including eight from Hong Kong, have made contact with the Chinese Consulate General in Denpasar on Bali, the consulate said on Monday. It added that they are safe and some have already left Lombok by boat.

Three Gili Islands, Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno, belong to Lombok, are well-known resorts like Bali on the west of Lombok. Scenic spots are concentrated in the western and central parts of the Lombok island, where people can enjoy the pristine beach and hike on the volcano.

Tourists are waiting to board on Aug 6, 2018. Photo: Xinhua/Liang Fangfang

Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, the most geologically active region of Earth, Indonesia is prone to earthquakes. In December 2004, a magnitude-9.1 earthquake off Sumatra set off a tsunami that claimed 230,000 lives in a dozen countries.

It was the second quake to hit Lombok in a week. A magnitude 6.4 quake killed 16 people with 300 people injured on July 29. The Rinjani volcano, located in the northeastern part of Lombok, has had several landslides and is still closed.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) - A Florida newspaper faced an ethical dilemma after a school district's mistake exposed details that were supposed to be redacted from its lengthy examination of the education of school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz.

The material two judges had ordered kept secret shows that Broward County school officials failed to follow state and federal laws that provide for disabled students. It lays out in abundant detail why Cruz needed the school system's therapeutic services. It describes how bureaucratic failures essentially left the mentally disturbed 18-year-old without support for 14 months leading up to the attack that killed 17 people at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

The district publicly released the report Friday with nearly two-thirds of its content blacked out to protect Cruz's privacy rights. But the report was prepared in a way that anyone could see the entire text after copy-pasting the blacked-out report into a Word document.

Assistant Public Defender Erin Veit, left, talks with school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz sits in a Broward County courtroom for a hearing in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Friday, Aug. 3, 2018. Attorneys for Cruz want a judge to prevent release of details of his education records to guarantee a fair trial. Cruz faces the death penalty if convicted of killing 17 people in the Valentine's Day attack at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, Pool)

Alerted by a reader that the full report was visible, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel decided that it couldn't hold back these details, and had a duty to report Friday night on the mistakes school officials made.

Events surrounding the shooting are "of the utmost importance to our community," Editor-in-Chief Julie Anderson explained in a story on Tuesday.

The Broward County school board is urging the judges to hold the paper and two of its reporters in contempt. The board's filing says the newspaper "opted to report, publicly, information that this court had ordered to be redacted despite agreeing, on the record, that this information was protected by Florida and federal law. This is a clear violation of court orders and constitutes contempt of court."

The Associated Press and other media organizations limited their Friday reports to the blacked-out version, which was more general in nature.

Several Broward school board members said at a regular meeting Tuesday they didn't find out about the contempt filing until reading it in the newspaper, according to local media reports.

"The decision was made without my consultation, and I would like to have a say in what's going on right now," said board member Robin Bartleman.

Others questioned how the supposedly redacted Cruz report was so easily accessed,

"We have to look at how this information is being released, and the potential that we, as a district, have a level of responsibility," board member Donna Korn said.

School board attorney Barbara Myrick said she and another attorney made the decision to file the motion without consulting the board or schools Superintendent Robert Runcie.

"If you have anyone to blame, it's me. I take full responsibility," Myrick said at the board meeting.

Contempt of court can be punishable by a fine or even jail time. A lawyer for the Sun Sentinel declined to comment, and no hearing has been set before Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherer. She is presiding over the Cruz criminal case and approved release of the redacted education report Friday despite claims from Cruz's defense attorneys it would threaten his right to a fair trial.

Another judge approved the redactions as well.

The Sun Sentinel is the main local paper in Broward County, and Anderson said its readers have a right to know as much as possible about events leading up to the shooting.

"After consulting attorneys about the situation, and realizing the school district had made the full report public, we published a second story that gave more context," she said.

The 70-page report commissioned by the school board was done by the Tallahassee-based consulting firm Collaborative Educational Network Inc. The Sun-Sentinel reported that the consultant concluded that school officials did not follow state or federal law regarding special needs or disabled students.

The newspaper reported that officials misinformed Cruz about his options after the failure of efforts to mainstream him at Stoneman Douglas. This misinformation led Cruz to refuse special education services, and because he was 18 by then, he could make such decisions without parental involvement. Cruz later asked to return to an alternative school for special education students, but the district failed to follow through.

That meant Cruz had no counseling or special education services in the 14 months before the Valentine's Day massacre. The report draws no conclusions about what role that played in the shooting.

Runcie said the board always intended to eventually release the entire Cruz report. The school board's contempt filing says the redactions were done only to comply with state and federal privacy laws. Runcie told the paper Friday that "it should not be insinuated or suggested at all that we wanted to redact or hide portions from the public."

Runcie also said that the purpose of the report was to explain to the public what happened, to fix any problems identified by the experts and to better train staff in the future. The details accidentally revealed don't alter any of the conclusions, he said.

Cruz, 19, faces the death penalty if convicted of murder. His attorneys have said he will plead guilty in return for a life sentence, but prosecutors have rejected that offer.

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Follow Curt Anderson on Twitter: http://twitter.com/Miamicurt

School shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz arrives in a Broward County courtroom for a hearing in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Friday, Aug. 3, 2018. Attorneys for Cruz want a judge to prevent release of details of his education records to guarantee a fair trial. Cruz faces the death penalty if convicted of killing 17 people in the Valentine's Day attack at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, Pool)

Judge Elizabeth Scherer, rear, listens to chief assistant state attorney Jeff Marcus during hearing for school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz in a Broward County courtroom in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Friday, Aug. 3, 2018. Attorneys for Cruz want a judge to prevent release of details of his education records to guarantee a fair trial. Cruz faces the death penalty if convicted of killing 17 people in the Valentine's Day attack at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, Pool)
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) - In a story Aug. 7 about Florida's school guardian program, The Associated Press reported erroneously that Jim Norton is the school superintendent of Bay County. He is the superintendent of Gulf County.

A corrected version of the story is below:

APNewsBreak: Florida schools struggle to meet security rule

Florida reacted to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas massacre by becoming the first state to require police or armed guards at all public schools, but The Associated Press has found it is a mandate many districts are struggling to meet

By TERRY SPENCER

Associated Press

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) - Florida reacted to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School massacre by becoming the first state to require police or armed guards at all public schools. It's a mandate many districts are struggling to meet, financially and logistically.

In the first comprehensive statewide examination of the program, an Associated Press survey of Florida's 67 countywide school districts found all campuses will be covered when they reopen this month, but many districts are having difficulty funding the program and finding enough applicants. About a third are supplementing officers with armed civilian security guards, including, in some cases, school staff members.

Before the Feb. 14 attack, a few districts already had officers at every campus, but the majority of districts didn't cover any or most elementary schools, and some didn't staff all middle schools.

Now every school must have armed protection whenever it's open. In districts that won't have full staffing in place when classes start, local law enforcement agencies are filling gaps by taking officers off the street or paying overtime.

That's happening in Palm Beach County. The district budgeted $9 million to add 75 officers to its 160-member in-house police department, and is asking voters to raise taxes to pay for them. But it isn't getting enough applicants - Florida has several thousand police and deputy vacancies, and not just for schools.

"There simply are not enough officers to go around," said Kathy Burstein, Palm Beach schools' spokeswoman. The district, which has nearly 200,000 students at 170 campuses, will not be arming staff or hiring civilian guards.

The Florida Legislature budgeted $165 million to partially cover districts' new security costs, but then cut proposed education spending. Before the massacre, Gov. Rick Scott recommended increasing the districts' base allocation by $152 per student. Legislators, after passing the security package, cut that to 47 cents.

"They robbed Peter to pay Paul," said Jim Norton, superintendent of the four-school Gulf County district in the Panhandle. It had two officers but will now have four plus a supervisor at an additional district cost of about $50,000 - the sheriff's office is covering the rest. "We all have the same commitment to safer schools, but we also have a duty to provide something beyond daycare."

The National Center for Education Statistics says a 2016 survey showed two-thirds of U.S. middle and high schools had an assigned police officer at least part-time; about a third of elementary schools were protected this way.

Having an armed guard on campus doesn't guarantee safety. The deputy at Stoneman Douglas didn't confront the shooter who killed 17 people. Ten were killed in May at a Texas high school where two school officers exchanged fire with the suspect before he surrendered. But school officers have stopped other shootings before anyone was killed, such as one in May in Dixon, Illinois.

The AP found 45 Florida districts are solely using police officers for campus protection.

Most contract with law enforcement agencies to hire and employ them, while the few that have school police forces are expanding them. An experienced officer can cost $100,000 annually in salary, benefits and equipment, and any cost not covered by the state falls on local taxpayers.

The staffing increases range from two officers in smaller districts to dozens in larger ones. Along with protecting students, such school resource officers investigate campus crimes, make arrests and can be reassigned off campus during summer and other breaks.

Flagler County Superintendent James Tager said his district south of Jacksonville felt more comfortable sticking with deputies, many of whom become student mentors. He said little thought was given to arming staff.

"Teachers teach and law enforcement does law enforcement," he said.

The other 22 districts are supplementing officers with "guardians" - armed civilians or staff. They are vetted, receive 132 hours of training and must attain a higher score on the state firearms test than rookie police officers.

About 30 states allow school employees to carry firearms, with varying restrictions, according to the Crime Prevention Research Center. Florida joined them after the Parkland shooting, but left this decision up to each district.

Thirteen of those districts, mostly rural, are arming volunteer administrators, custodians and other non-classroom staff members, who get a one-time $500 stipend. The law bans teachers unless they are former police officers, active military members or Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps instructors.

Rick Surrency, superintendent in Putnam County, which borders Flagler, supports arming staff because they "have a vested interest in protecting those with whom they know and care for."

The other nine are supplementing officers by employing full-time guardians, at an estimated annual cost of $30,000 to $50,000 each. Their sole job is stopping lethal attacks. They don't have other law enforcement powers or responsibilities, and many districts are specifically hiring veterans and retired police officers. Six of the state's 10 largest districts are hiring guardians, including 55 by Broward County, Stoneman Douglas' district.

"To meet the goal of ensuring there is armed personnel on every campus, we are going to have to, in the short run, pursue multiple paths," Broward Superintendent Robert Runcie said.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, an outspoken advocate of guardians, said they are cost-efficient while providing needed protection, but must be part of a larger strategy to identify potential attackers in advance and keep them out of classrooms.

"Guardians are the last, best opportunity to keep children safe when all of the other layers have failed," Judd said.

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Associated Press writer Gary Fineout in Tallahassee contributed to this report.
DECATUR, Ga. (AP) - The chairman and another member of Georgia's Immigration Enforcement Review Board have resigned after an Atlanta suburb raised questions about whether terms have expired for some of its members.

The resignations come amid an ongoing legal battle involving the city of Decatur and its policy of limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported .

Chairman Shawn Hanley and member Phil Kent sent messages to Gov. Nathan Deal's office Monday announcing their resignations.

In July, Decatur city attorney Bryan Downs said five of the board's seven members have served since 2011, despite a Georgia law that limits members to two terms of two years each. Hanley and Kent were both appointed to the board in 2011. The law, however, also states board members serve "until their successors are duly appointed and qualified."

Hanley and Kent both cited the term limit dispute in their decisions to leave.

"It was time to go," Hanley told the Atlanta newspaper. "A lot of this is in the courts right now and the last thing I want to do is be responsible for taxpayer funds defending an ability to stay on the board when the fact is that it is probably a 50-50 chance whether I would be or wouldn't be."

Kent said he "didn't want the term limit thing to be dragging on and be a distraction."

Before he lost this year's GOP governor's race, Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle, who appoints two of the board's members, accused Decatur of violating Georgia's law against "sanctuary" cities.

The board preliminarily ruled against Decatur just before the Republican primary, threatening its state funding, after the city put into writing its longstanding policy prohibiting police from holding immigrants without a valid warrant from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Decatur maintains that it abides by the law and is not a sanctuary city.

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Information from: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, http://www.ajc.com
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Attorneys are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to stay the looming execution of a convicted child killer after the Tennessee Supreme Court and governor decided against a delay.

In a filing Tuesday, federal public defender Kelley Henry and attorney Carl Gene Shiles Jr. wrote that Billy Ray Irick should get a stay of Thursday's scheduled lethal injection while a challenge of the state's protocol continues on appeal.

The state Supreme Court wrote Monday that Irick's attorney didn't meet the burden of proving the lawsuit challenging Tennessee's new three-drug cocktail is likely to succeed. Gov. Bill Haslam said Monday he won't intervene.

Ray Krone, center, who was the 100th inmate exonerated from death row since the death penalty was reinstated, carries a box of petition signatures to be delivered to Gov. Bill Haslam after a protest against the death penalty Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. At left is Rev. Stacy Rector. Attorneys are asking the U.S. Supreme Court for a stay of execution for convicted child killer Billy Ray Irick after the Tennessee Supreme Court and governor decided against a delay. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)

Protesters demonstrated Tuesday, urging Haslam to stop the execution.

Irick would be the first inmate Tennessee has executed since 2009. He was convicted of the 1985 rape and murder of a 7-year-old Knoxville girl.

Ray Krone, left, who was the 100th inmate exonerated from death row since the death penalty was reinstated, speaks during a protest against the death penalty Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Attorneys are asking the U.S. Supreme Court for a stay of execution for convicted child killer Billy Ray Irick after the Tennessee Supreme Court and governor decided against a delay.(AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)

Rev. Stacy Rector, bottom, speaks during a protest against the death penalty Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, in Nashville, Tenn. Attorneys are asking the U.S. Supreme Court for a stay of execution for convicted child killer Billy Ray Irick after the Tennessee Supreme Court and governor decided against a delay. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
MEXICO CITY (AP) - President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador promised Tuesday to bring justice to the families of Mexico's victims of violence, speaking at a "pacification and reconciliation" forum in the northern border city of Ciudad Juarez.

Lopez Obrador and members of his proposed security Cabinet held the first of a planned series of such meetings in the violence-stained border city, meeting with victims of violence, academics, authorities and others.

He gas promised a new approach to Mexico's spiraling violence.

Mexico's President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador speaks to participants in the first of a series of meetings across the country, over the next three months, to address security and national reconciliation, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. In each forum, residents will work together in groups to create proposals addressing local priorities around security. (AP Photo/Christian Torres)

One controversial proposal is an amnesty for people who commit non-violent crimes. Lopez Obrador says people must forgive without forgetting.

Victims' rights supporters briefly interrupted the forum at the Autonomous University of Ciudad Juarez.

On Aug. 3, the bodies of 11 people were found in a home in Juarez. Authorities announced the arrests of eight suspects Monday.

A woman shouts out during the first in a series of meetings that Mexico's President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is holding across the country over the next three months to address security and national reconciliation, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. In each forum, residents will work together in groups to create proposals addressing local priorities around security. (AP Photo/Christian Torres)

Mexico's President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador speaks to participants in the first of a series of meetings across the country over the next three months, to address security and national reconciliation, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. In each forum, residents will work together in groups to create proposals addressing local priorities around security. (AP Photo/Christian Torres)

People hold a banner carrying the Spanish message: "Repeal the internal security law," a controversial 2017 law which granted Mexico's military the legal authority to act as police, during the first in a series of meetings that Mexico's President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is holding across the country over the next three months to address security and national reconciliation, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. In each forum, residents will work together in groups to create proposals addressing local priorities around security. (AP Photo/Christian Torres)

Relatives of missing people demonstrate outside the venue of the first in a series of meetings that Mexico's President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador is holding across the country over the next three months to address security and national reconciliation, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. In each forum, residents will work together in groups to create proposals addressing local priorities around security. (AP Photo/Christian Torres)

Mexico's President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, center, is flanked by his Interior Secretary Olga Sanchez Cordero, right, and Chihuahua Governor Javier Corral during the first in a series of meetings that will be held across the country over the next three months to address security and national reconciliation, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. In each forum, residents will work together in groups to create proposals addressing local priorities around security. (AP Photo/Christian Torres)
AMALIA, N.M. (AP) - The Latest on 11 children found living in a filthy, makeshift compound in New Mexico (all times local):

6 p.m.

A defense attorney says criminal complaints accusing five adults of child abuse at a remote New Mexico compound are sparse in detail, leading to uncertainty about how much investigative work has been done.

This Aug. 5, 2018 photo shows a "no trespassing" sign outside the location where people camped near Amalia, N.M. Three women believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Jesse Moya/The Taos News via AP)

Aleks Kostich of the Taos County Public Defender's Office said Tuesday his agency is gathering information and assigning attorneys to the defendants.

He didn't provide further comment, citing the early stage of the case.

The Taos County sheriff says the body of a child was found at the compound where investigators suspect a father took his son after an abduction in Georgia.

The remains have not been positively identified.

Authorities say they found the five adults and 11 hungry children living in filth at the compound.

___

2:50 p.m.

A New Mexico sheriff says searchers have found the remains of a boy on property where authorities raided a makeshift compound last week in search of a missing Georgia child.

Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe said Tuesday that the remains were found after a search in Amalia. Authorities are awaiting a positive identification of the remains discovered Monday.

Authorities say the search for Abdul-ghani, of Georgia, led them Friday to the squalid compound where they found his father, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, four other adults and 11 children living in filthy conditions.

The adults are facing child abuse charges.

Then father is accused of leaving Georgia in December with his then 3-year-old son.

___

12:50 p.m.

A New Mexico man who lived near a makeshift compound that authorities raided in search of a missing Georgia boy believed the group had moved to the area to live off the grid, just as he had done.

Tyler Anderson of Amalia said Tuesday he had helped the newcomers install solar panels after they arrived in December. But he eventually stopped visiting the compound that authorities have since described as filthy.

Anderson says the 11 children found inside the compound at first played at neighboring properties but stopped in recent months.

He also says he never met the three women living at the site and doesn't recall seeing the boy who remains missing.

Authorities raided the compound Friday. Five adults who were living there face child abuse charges.

___

12:10 p.m.

A New Mexico man says he and his wife pressed authorities to remove a group of people from a makeshift compound on his land where officials reported finding 11 hungry children living in filth.

Jason Badger said Tuesday that he had concerns about the compound near the Colorado border. But he says the courts and other authorities shot down his attempts to break up the encampment - described as a trailer buried in the ground.

Court records show a judge dismissed an eviction notice filed by Badger against Lucas Morton in June. The records didn't provide further details on the judge's decision.

Morton was among five adults arrested after the Taos County sheriff raided the compound in search of a missing Georgia boy who was not found.

The five adults, including the boy's father, have been charged with child abuse.

___

12 a.m.

The father of a missing Georgia boy is expected to make his first court appearance Tuesday, which could shed light on a bizarre tale of guns, exorcism and child abuse at a New Mexico compound.

Court records show that Siraj Ibn Wahhaj is scheduled to appear in Taos Magistrate Court. Georgia officials want him extradited to face a charge of abducting his son, Abdul-ghani, from the state in December when the boy was 3 years old.

The warrant says that Wahhaj told the boy's mother he wanted to perform an exorcism on his son.

Police say the search for the missing boy led them Friday to a squalid compound where they found Wahhaj, four other adults and 11 children living in filthy conditions.

The missing boy wasn't among them.

This Aug. 5, 2018 photo shows debris outside the location where people camped near Amalia, N.M. Three women believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Jesse Moya/The Taos News via AP)

CORRECTS LAST NAME TO WAHHAJ, NOT WAHHA - This combination photo provided by the Taos County Sheriff's Department shows Subhannah Wahhaj, from left, Jany Leveille and Hujrah Wahhaj. Three women believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico, have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Taos County Sheriff's Department via AP)

CORRECTS LAST NAME TO MORTON, NOT MORTEN - This photo provided by the Taos County Sheriff's Department shows Lucas Morton, left, and Siraj Wahhaj. Morton and Wahhaj were arrested after law enforcement officers searching a rural northern New Mexico compound for a missing 3-year-old boy found 11 children in filthy conditions and hardly any food. (Taos County Sheriff's Department via AP)

CORRECTS LAST NAME TO WAHHAJ, NOT WAHHA - This photo provided by the Taos County Sheriff's Department shows Subhannah Wahhaj. Wahhaj and a few other women, believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico, have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Taos County Sheriff via AP)

CORRECTS LAST NAME TO MORTON, NOT MORTEN - This Friday, Aug. 3, 2018, photo released by Taos County Sheriff's Office shows Lucas Morton. Morton was arrested on suspicion of harboring a fugitive after law enforcement officers searching a rural northern New Mexico compound for a missing 3-year-old boy found 11 children in filthy conditions and hardly any food. (Taos County Sheriff's Office via AP)

This photo provided by the Taos County Sheriff's Department shows Jany Leveille. Leveille and a few other women, believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico, have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Taos County Sheriff via AP)

CORRECTS HER LAST NAME TO WAHHAJ, NOT WAHHAJJ - This photo provided by the Taos County Sheriff's Department shows Hujrah Wahhaj. Wahhaj and a few other women, believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico, have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. (Taos County Sheriff via AP)

This undated posted provided by the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children shows Abdul-ghani Wahhaj, left, and his father Siraj Wahhaj, who police are seeking the public's in finding. Police reports show that the Georgia boy missing after authorities raided a New Mexico compound over the weekend was last seen in Alabama in December. The boy's mother told police he left with his father, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, for a trip to a park and never returned. (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children via AP)

FILE - This Aug. 3, 2018, file photo released by Taos County Sheriff's Office shows a rural compound during an unsuccessful search for a missing boy in Amalia, N.M. Three women believed to be the mothers of 11 children found hungry and living in a filthy makeshift compound in rural northern New Mexico have been arrested, following the weekend arrests of two men, authorities said Monday, Aug. 6. The boy last seen in Alabama in December traveling with one of the men who was arrested has not been found. (Taos County Sheriff's Office via AP, File)
ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP) - In blistering and aggressive questioning aimed at undermining the credibility of the government's star witness, a defense lawyer accused the protege of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort of being immersed in "so many lies" he can't remember them all and demanded to know how a jury could possibly trust him.

Defense lawyer Kevin Downing began his cross-examination of longtime Manafort deputy Rick Gates by confronting him on his own lies to special counsel Robert Mueller's investigators, an extramarital affair and hundreds of thousands of dollars he admitted to embezzling from his former boss.

Downing also ventured into territory the two sides in Manafort's fraud trial have mostly avoided: discussion of Donald Trump's presidential campaign. The charges are not related to Manafort's work with the Trump campaign.

This courtroom sketch depicts defense lawyer Kevin Downing asking questions of Rick Gates, as former Donald Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, bottom front left, listens during Manafort's trial on bank fraud and tax evasion at federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. U.S. District court Judge T.S. Ellis III presides. (Dana Verkouteren via AP)

The questioning was aimed at shifting blame from Manafort onto Gates, a fellow Trump campaign aide who pleaded guilty in Mueller's investigation and agreed to cooperate with investigators by testifying in the financial fraud trial.

"After all the lies you've told and the fraud you've committed, you expect this jury to believe you?" Downing asked incredulously.

Gates said he did, but the defense lawyer wasn't satisfied. He scoffed at the idea that Gates had repented for his actions, noting that prosecutors have said they won't oppose his bid for probation and getting him to acknowledge he had not repaid the money he had taken from Manafort.

After Gates described his theft as "unauthorized transactions" instead of embezzlement, Downing prodded him to use the latter term - and Gates ultimately relented, saying, "It was embezzlement from Mr. Manafort."

Prosecutors had braced for the tough questioning by getting Gates to come clean about his own crimes. He told jurors how he disguised millions of dollars in foreign income as loans in order to lower Manafort's tax bill. Gates recounted how he and Manafort used more than a dozen offshore shell companies and bank accounts in Cyprus to funnel the money, all while concealing the accounts and the income from the IRS.

But the grilling got more intense, and personal, Tuesday afternoon when Downing pressed Gates about a "secret life" he said was funded by embezzlement, including an extramarital affair that Gates himself acknowledged. Gates also said he may have submitted personal expenses for reimbursement by Trump's inaugural committee, which he helped operate.

After Gates struggled to recall precisely what he had told Mueller's team, Downing asked if he had been confronted with "so many lies" that he can't keep his story straight.

Downing at one point asked whether Mueller's investigators had interviewed Gates about his role in the campaign, prompting an objection from prosecutors and a sidebar conference with U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III. The defense moved on. Both sides have agreed to limit discussion of the campaign to avoid prejudicing the jury, though they did permit testimony about the overlap of a bank loan with Manafort's role in the Trump election effort.

Gates implicated himself in broad criminal conduct on the stand, an apparent strategic decision by prosecutors to take some of the steam out of defense questioning. He told jurors he embezzled from Manafort by filing false expense reports. He also said he committed credit card and mortgage fraud, falsified a letter for a colleague involved in an investment deal and made false statements in a deposition at Manafort's direction.

Prosecutors summoned Gates to give jurors the first-hand account of a co-conspirator they say helped Manafort carry out an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and bank fraud scheme. Gates testified that he and Manafort knew they were committing crimes for years, saying they had stashed money in foreign bank accounts and falsified bank loan documents.

"In Cyprus, they were documented as loans. In reality, it was basically money moving between accounts," Gates said.

Manafort and Gates were the first two people indicted in Mueller's investigation into potential ties between Russia and the Trump campaign. Gates pleaded guilty months later and agreed to cooperate in Mueller's investigation of Manafort, the only American charged by the special counsel to opt for trial instead of a guilty plea.

The case has little to do with either man's work for the Trump campaign and there's been no discussion during the trial about whether the Trump election effort coordinated with Russia - the central question Mueller's team has tried to answer. But Trump has shown interest in the proceedings, tweeting support for Manafort.

On Tuesday, Gates did connect one part of the bank fraud charges against Manafort to his role in the Trump campaign.

He said Manafort asked for tickets to Trump's inauguration so he could give them to a banker involved in approving a loan at the center of his financial fraud trial. Gates also said Manafort floated banker Stephen Calk's name for consideration as Secretary of the Army, a post he ultimately did not get. The email exchange occurred after Manafort left the Trump campaign but while Gates was active on the Trump inauguration committee.

Gates described to jurors how he repeatedly submitted fake financial documents at Manafort's behest as his former boss became concerned he was paying too much in taxes and, later, that his funds were drying up.

"WTF," Manafort wrote to Gates in one 2015 email shown to the jury. "How could I be blindsided like this. You told me you were on top of this. We need to discuss options. This is a disaster."

In other testimony, Gates recounted how he converted a PDF of a profit-and-loss statement to a Microsoft Word document so he could doctor it to inflate the business' income. Gates also fabricated a forgiveness letter for what he said was already a fake loan between Manafort's consulting company and a Cypriot entity he controlled.

Prosecutor Greg Andres pointed out he had created a "loan forgiveness letter between Mr. Manafort and Mr. Manafort."

"Yes," Gates agreed.

During the testimony, Manafort did not stare Gates down as he did Monday. When the trial broke for lunch, Manafort looked back at his wife, sitting in the front row, smiled and winked at her, followed by a quick shake of his head, seeming to indicate he was unfazed by the morning's testimony.

___

Associated Press writer Stephen Braun contributed to this report.

This courtroom sketch depicts Rick Gates on the witness stand as he is cross examined by defense lawyer Kevin Downing during the trial of former Donald Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort on bank fraud and tax evasion at federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. U.S. District court Judge T.S. Ellis III presides. (Dana Verkouteren via AP)

Kevin Downing, right, attorney for Paul Manafort, leaves federal court after attending the bank fraud and tax evasion trial of the former Donald Trump campaign chairman in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

This courtroom sketch depicts former Donald Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, left, listening with his lawyer Kevin Downing to testimony from government witness Rick Gates as Manafort's trial continues at federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (Dana Verkouteren via AP)

Television cameras stand ready outside the trial of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort at federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Kathleen Manafort, right, wife of Paul Manafort, arrives to attend the trial of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort as it continues in federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

Kevin Downing, left, and Thomas Zehnle, the attorneys for Paul Manafort, arrive for the trial as it continues in federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
NEW YORK (AP) - New York City's iconic but imperiled yellow cab industry may be getting help from lawmakers who want to pump the brakes on fast-expanding ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft.

In what would be a first-in-the-nation step if passed, the City Council on Wednesday is set to vote on proposals that would cap new licenses for car service drivers for one year while officials study the massive changes rippling through the taxi industry.

Other proposals would set minimum pay levels for all drivers and minimum fares, which are now regulated for traditional cabs but not their multitudes of new competitors.

In this Thursday, Aug. 2, 2018 photo, yellow taxi medallion owner Lal Singh shows a license, meter device and the medallion tag required to operate his cab in New York. New York City's yellow cab drivers, thrown into financial upheaval in recent years by the arrival of a veritable army of black cars picking up passengers through ride-hail apps, could be getting a lifeline from elected officials voting on legislation Wednesday, Aug. 8, that would pump the brakes on Uber, Lyft and others. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews)

The legislation is a reaction to stories of financial hardship told by drivers, who complain that there are so many Uber cars on the road now that it is getting hard for anyone to make a decent living.

"There has to be a pause button that's going to give people some breathing room," said Bhairavi Desai, of the New York Taxi Workers Alliance.

City Council Speaker Corey Johnson said lawmakers aren't against the ride-hailing newcomers. "We think they've actually filled a need," he said. But he said better regulation is needed.

For generations, taxi drivers in New York were protected by rules restricting competition. Around 13,500 yellow cabs had the special licenses, called medallions, needed to pick up passengers on the street. Several thousand more drivers worked for black car companies that dispatched vehicles by phone, mostly in the outer boroughs of Bronx, Queens, Staten Island and Brooklyn, where yellow cabs generally wouldn't travel.

That system was smashed when the city began allowing passengers to use smartphone apps to hail cars almost anywhere.

The change kicked off a dizzying increase in the number of car service drivers from about 65,000 in 2015 to 100,000 now.

One unforeseen development has been plunging value of the traditional taxi medallions. As recently as four years ago, they were changing hands at prices reaching $1 million. They were considered such a ticket to guaranteed income, banks allowed owners to borrow huge sums against them for home mortgages or school loans.

Now, many of those loans are coming due. Drivers no longer have the income to pay them off. And with medallions now trading at $200,000 or less, owners don't have the collateral to refinance.

Driver Lal Singh said he owes $312,000 on a medallion he thought would be his ticket to middle class comfort. But he can't sell at a price high enough to cover his debt. So at age 62, he's still driving 14-hour shifts, despite having high blood pressure and diabetes, with every penny going to pay off his debt.

"Everybody say, 'This is my retirement. Some income will come in from the medallion. We will survive,'" he said. "But now we have no hope and I don't see any place, which direction I should go."

Six drivers have taken their own lives in the last year, including one who shot himself in his car in front of City Hall after railing against politicians and Uber in a newsletter column.

"I will not be a slave working for chump change," Douglas Shifter wrote. "I would rather be dead."

Drivers previously pushed for a cap on new competition in 2015, but were beaten back by ride-hailing companies. The same companies are now pushing back on the new proposals, saying they would prevent them from replacing drivers who quit and lead to reduced service.

"We're really concerned about the process and the speed with which the council is trying to ram this through," said Joseph Okpaku, vice president of public policy at Lyft.

Uber spokesman Josh Gold said a cap on new licenses would reverse the progress made extending service to neighborhoods poorly served by traditional taxis.

That argument has gotten support from some civil rights activists like the Rev. Al Sharpton, who have long criticized the yellow cab industry for discrimination and profiling of minorities.

"They're talking about putting a cap on Uber, do you know how difficult it is for black people to get a yellow cab in New York City?" Sharpton wrote on Twitter.

The level of upheaval in the industry hasn't been seen on this scale since the first half of the 20th century, when the medallion system was put in place to deal with issues of competition, said Graham Hodges, a professor at Colgate University.

Flaws in that system, like racial profiling and inadequate demand, "made it easy for Uber, Lyft and the others to come in, say, 'We're going to provide a much better service,'" he said.

"That doesn't mean those flaws couldn't be remedied without destroying the system," he said.

In this Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 photo, passengers board yellow cabs as others wait in line at a taxi stand on 42nd Street outside Grand Central Terminal in New York. Once synonymous with New York City, yellow taxis have been supplanted by an army of black cars that pick up riders though the Uber, Lyft and other apps. The rise in the number of ride-hail vehicles has been so dizzying that the New York City Council is pondering a series of legislative proposals to be voted on Wednesday, Aug. 8.. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

In this Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 photo, yellow taxis line up at LaGuardia airport in New York. Once synonymous with New York City, yellow taxis have been supplanted by an army of black cars that pick up riders through the Uber, Lyft and other apps. The rise in the number of ride-hail vehicles has been so dizzying that the New York City Council is pondering a series of legislative proposals to be voted on Wednesday, Aug. 8. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

In this Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 photo, a woman uses a ride-hailing app while waiting for a ride outside Grand Central Terminal in New York. Once synonymous with New York City, yellow taxis have been supplanted by an army of black cars that pick up riders though the Uber, Lyft and other apps. The rise in the number of ride-hail vehicles has been so dizzying that the New York City Council is pondering a series of legislative proposals to be voted on Wednesday, Aug. 8. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

In this Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 photo, traffic on 42nd Street makes it's way around a ride-hailing car picking up passengers outside Grand Central Terminal in New York. Once synonymous with New York City, yellow taxis have been supplanted by an army of black cars that pick up riders through the Uber, Lyft and other apps. The rise in the number of ride-hail vehicles has been so dizzying that the New York City Council is pondering a series of legislative proposals to be voted on Wednesday, Aug. 8. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

In this Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 photo, yellow cabs make their way across 42nd Street outside Grand Central Terminal in New York. Responding to tales of financial woe, New York City lawmakers are considering a proposal to try and stabilize the city's iconic taxi industry by putting a temporary cap on the number of drivers working for companies like Uber and Lyft. The restrictions come after a year in which many drivers for-hire in the city have complained that the explosion in the popularity of ride-hailing services has upended regulations intended to limit competition and ensure that every driver made enough money to survive. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)
SAN LUIS, Ariz. (AP) - The 3-year-old boy with a bowl haircut and striped shirt silently clung to his father in the back of a U.S. Border Patrol truck.

Their shoes still muddy from crossing the border, the father and son had just been apprehended at a canal near a border fence in Arizona on a muggy night in July. Before the father, son and two older children could make it any farther, a Border Patrol agent intervened and directed them through a large border gate.

The father handed over documents that showed gang members had committed crimes against his family, one of the ways immigrants who seek asylum try to prove their cases. After a wait, he and his children were hauled away in a van to be processed at a Border Patrol station about 20 miles away in Yuma.

A father and his 3-year-old son are detained in the back of a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol vehicle Wednesday, July 18, 2018 in San Luis, Ariz. The boy, his father and two siblings were arrested by a U.S. Border Patrol agent who spotted them crossing a canal along the the international border. (AP Photo/Matt York)

The encounter witnessed by The Associated Press illustrates how families are still coming into the U.S. even in the face of daily global headlines about the Trump administration's zero-tolerance immigration policies. The flow of families from Central America is especially pronounced in this overlooked stretch of border in Arizona and California.

The Border Patrol's Yuma Sector has seen a more than 120 percent spike in the number of families and unaccompanied children caught at the border over the last year, surprising many in an area that had been largely quiet and calm for the past decade.

So far this fiscal year, agents in the Yuma sector have apprehended nearly 10,000 families and 4,500 unaccompanied children, a giant increase from just seven years ago when they arrested only 98 families and 222 unaccompanied children.

The Trump administration's policy of separating families did not seem to be slowing the flow. The Border Patrol here apprehended an average of 30 families per day in June, when the uproar over the policy was at its peak, an increase from May. Yuma is now the second-busiest sector for family border crossings next to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas.

Agents and border crossers here have many things to contend with. Parts of the border are urban, with fences and canals on the U.S. side directly across from a home's backyard in Mexico. The sector includes Arizona and part of California, along with the Imperial Sand Dunes and Colorado River.

While drug smugglers and other criminals use the vast desert to cross illegally, most families and children simply walk or swim across into the U.S. and wait to be arrested, according to Border Patrol spokesman Jose Garibay. Many travel in large groups, he said.

Garibay says he was once on assignment when he encountered a group of over 60 families and children.

Dealing with large numbers of families and children has proven to be logistically difficult for the agency. There are only so many vans to transport the immigrants to the sector's processing facility in Yuma.

Many don't understand why so many families and children from Central America are coming to the U.S. through this stretch of Arizona and braving its extreme summer heat, when the more direct path takes them to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas, more than 1,000 miles away.

Garibay said migration patterns are largely controlled by the cartels that smuggle people across. The Mexican state of Tamaulipas that borders the Rio Grande has been experiencing extreme violence by drug cartels that the head of U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently said are fighting for "every inch" of control of the river where migrants are often smuggled in Texas.

Randy Capps of the Migration Policy Institute says it's noteworthy that most of the border crossers in the Yuma sector are Guatemalans. He said it's possible many are headed for California and that crossing through the Yuma area may be the safest and simplest way to do that.

They are encountering a section of border that the government hails as its gold standard for border security. It was one of the busiest sectors in the country for years before new fencing, technology, remote surveillance and more agents resulted in a drastic drop in border crossings.

"It's really been a combined effort across the whole agency to be able to turn this sector into something that is manageable and not somewhere there was 138,000 apprehensions back in 2005," Garibay said.

Yuma is an agricultural hub that relies heavily on immigrant labor to harvest crops, mainly lettuce and dates. Hundreds of Mexican workers cross the border with special visas to work the fields. Their employers have to pay to house and feed them, and they earn around $10 an hour.

The Yuma area supplies 90 percent of the nation's leafy greens for most of the year- a $2.5-billion-a-year industry. It's a place heavily reliant on immigrant labor, but also where President Donald Trump beat Hillary Clinton by more than 5 points.

A 45-minute drive from the city of Yuma south through a number of fields leads to San Luis, Arizona, the small border city where clothing shops and Mexican restaurants line the street leading to Mexico.

On the same night the 3-year-old and his family were taken into custody, an agent out on patrol near Yuma spotted two men and two boys ages 12 and 13 from Guatemala standing on a road waiting to be arrested. The group had walked through a knee-high canal and their pants and shoes were wet and dirty. An agent gathered their names, home countries and dates of birth before putting them in his truck while waiting for a transport van. The men and boys said nothing as they were taken away.

At a shelter for immigrants on the Mexico side, more recently deported immigrants, families and Central Americans have been showing up this year. Casa del Migrante la Divina Providencia was seeing about 1,000 people each month in 2017. In 2018, over 2,000 people started showing up monthly, according to Martin Salgado, who runs the shelter.

Most of the people served at the shelter are Mexicans who were deported. But on occasion, Central Americans making their way north stopped here for a warm meal, a prayer and a bed.

Jose Blanco, 28, had left Honduras nearly a month prior to arriving at the shelter. He and two others tried crossing the border illegally near San Luis but came back after six hours on foot, when he found it was too hot and dangerous to keep going.

Blanco, the father of two children who were back in Honduras, said he planned on going home instead of trying to cross again.

"It's too hard here right now," Blanco said.

A U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent patrols a section of floating fence at sunset that runs through Imperial Sand Dunes Wednesday, July 18, 2018 along the international border with Mexico in Imperial County, Calif. 126-miles of border cuts through the Yuma Sector where thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross into Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Gonzalo Zavala, a Mexican national, has his boots shined outside the Asociacion Casa Del Migrante "La Divina Providencia" group house as three men stand outside, Thursday, July 19, 2018 in San Luis, Sonora, Mexico. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

A pair of U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents look at tracks in the sand along the floating fence that makes up the international border with Mexico, Wednesday, July 18, 2018 in Imperial County, Calif. 126-miles of border cuts through the Yuma Sector where thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross into Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

A U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent gathers information on four Guatemalan nationals, including two men and a pair of 12 and 13-year-old boys, Wednesday, July 18, 2018, in Yuma, Ariz. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Central American men sit in the courtyard of the Asociacion Casa Del Migrante "La Divina Providencia" group house as their laundry dries Thursday, July 19, 2018 in San Luis, Sonora, Mexico. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

A U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent, center in truck, escorts four Guatemalan nationals consisting of two men and a pair of 12 and 13-year-old boys, after they self-surrendered, to a holding vehicle Wednesday, July 18, 2018 along the international border in Yuma, Ariz. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in the Yuma Sector of Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

A mother and 5-year-old daughter from Honduras are detained by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents Wednesday, July 18, 2018, in San Luis, Ariz. The pair were apprehended by a U.S. Border Patrol agent who spotted them crossing a canal along the border with Mexico. (AP Photo/Matt York)

A U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent sits atop the Imperial Sand Dunes as he monitors the floating fence that makes up the international border with Mexico, Wednesday, July 18, 2018 in Imperial County, Calif. 126-miles of border cuts through the Yuma Sector where thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross into Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Three of four arrested Guatemalan nationals, two men and a 12-year-old boy, surrender to a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent, Wednesday, July 18, 2018 along the international border in Yuma, Ariz. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in the Yuma Sector of Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Jose Blanco, of Honduras, sits with his belongings at the Asociacion Casa Del Migrante "La Divina Providencia" group house Thursday, July 19, 2018 in San Luis, Sonora, Mexico. Zavala, stated that he was retiring to Honduras after finding it to difficult to cross into the United States. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

A U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent patrols a area of sand dunes Wednesday, July 18, 2018 along the international border with Mexico in Imperial County, Calif. 126-miles of border cuts through the Yuma Sector where thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross into Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

A Central American man eats breakfast at the Asociacion Casa Del Migrante "La Divina Providencia" group house Thursday, July 19, 2018 in San Luis, Sonora, Mexico. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

A Honduran man carries his 3-year-old son as his daughter and other son follow to a transport vehicle after being detained by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents Wednesday, July 18, 2018 in San Luis, Ariz. The four were arrested by a U.S. Border Patrol agent who spotted them trying to cross the international border. Agents opened the gate in the fence to the right when they spotted the group crossing a canal. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Central American men are seen through a window behind religious imagery at the Asociacion Casa Del Migrante "La Divina Providencia" group house Thursday, July 19, 2018 in San Luis, Sonora, Mexico. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in the Yuma Sector of Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Central American men sit inside the Asociacion Casa Del Migrante "La Divina Providencia" group house Thursday, July 19, 2018 in San Luis, Sonora, Mexico. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Four Guatemalan nationals consisting of two men and a pair of 12 and 13-year-old boys, remove their shoe laces and personal itmes after being arrested by a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent Wednesday, July 18, 2018 in Yuma, Ariz. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Socorro Reyes sits alone in her room at the Asociacion Casa Del Migrante "La Divina Providencia" group house Thursday, July 19, 2018 in San Luis, Sonora, Mexico. Reyes fractured her spine in a car crash when the driver tried to out run U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. Thousands of families and unaccompanied children are continuing to cross the U.S. border in Arizona and California even after learning of the government's family separation policy upon apprehension. (AP Photo/Matt York)
Vets are battling to treat an emaciated and possibly infected young orca swimming in the same critically endangered pod as the mother who is carrying her dead calf.

The three-and-a-half-year-old orca, known as Scarlet or J50, was seen in distress earlier this week alongside mother Slick, or J16, but disappeared, raising fears she had perished.

But the pair were spotted again near Neah Bay, Washington, Thursday and medics rushed to make an assessment, though it is not clear if the infant was treated.

Teams from NOAA Fisheries West Coast are planning to inject Scarlet with antibiotics and feed her live salmon in an attempt to save her.

Vets are trying and save an emaciated and possibly infected baby orca known as Scarlet or J50 (pictured in this 2015 file image with mother Slick, or J16). The pair are part of the same pod as Tahlequah, the mother who has been carrying her dead calf for 17 days

Scarlet and her mother vanished earlier this week but reemerged on Thursday. Medics raced out to make an assessment, but it is not clear if they were able to treat her

The calf was the first in three years to be born to the dwindling population of endangered southern resident killer whales.

The orcas are part of an endangered population that has dwindled to just 75 whales.

Another female orca from the group - known Tahlequah or J35 - has attracted international attention after her calf died.

She has been swimming around with the dead infant balanced on her nose for 17 days in a heartbreaking display of grief.

Observers are concerned about Tahlequah because she has fallen behind the pod, meaning she may struggle to hunt and catch food on her own.

Despite this, an NOAA spokesman said on Thursday that workers have no plans to remove the calf's body for fear of making the situation worse.

Sheila Thornton, lead killer whale research scientist with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, added: 'Removing the calf would be a very, very difficult decision, and obviously we would have to take many factors into consideration, so thats currently not on the table.'

Vets monitoring J50 will decide when the calf next emerges whether or not to treat using antibiotics, preferring a dart or injection over food because the medicine will keep working for between 10 and 14 days.

Feeding the youngster medicine would require daily or almost daily contact, which they are not sure they will get.

Veterinarians in the field will decide whether to give the ailing orca antibiotics, which would last between 10 and 14 days, using either a dart injector or a long pole syringe.

If things go well, Rowles said, the team could move ahead with feeding the orca live salmon from a boat.

The whale would initially get just a few fish to see whether she takes it and how she and members of her pod respond before deciding whether to give her salmon dosed with medication.

Tahlequah's calf perished on July 24 and the 20-year-old mother is still carrying its dead body around 17 days later in a heartbreaking display of grief

Observers are also concerned for Tahlequah's health because she has now fallen behind the pod while carrying her child, meaning she could starve as she struggles to hunt alone

Rowles said injections of antibiotics or sedatives have been given to other free-swimming whales or dolphins that were injured or entangled but it hasn't been done for free-swimming whales in this area.

What would be unique is giving the orca medication through live fish, Rowles said.

Whale experts have been increasingly worried about J50 after a researcher last month noticed an odor on the orca's breath, a smell detected on other orcas that later died.

Researchers took breath samples, and a drone flown above the whales Wednesday showed that J50 is much skinnier and her body condition has gotten worse.

Rowles said such imagery has shed more light on the whales' overall body condition and growth over time. That data has documented orcas that declined and then disappeared.

She said it became evident that 'we needed to intervene to determine potentially what was the cause and whether there was anything we could do to assist her.'

The efforts come as a task force called by Washington Gov. Jay Inslee met Tuesday to come up with solutions to help the whales.

It was hearing initial recommendations focused on three main threats to the orcas: lack of food, toxic contamination and boat noise and disturbance.

A final report is due in November.

The recent images of the mother orca pushing her dead calf and trying to keep it afloat in Northwest waters has given greater urgency to the fate of the whales, said Les Purce, co-chair of the task force.

'The big question is, can we craft public policy that can make a difference in the future of the orca, and by doing so make a positive difference in how we live in Puget Sound,' Purce said in an interview Monday.

The group will prioritize short-term and long-term actions, many of which are certain to focus on recovering the prized salmon that the fish-eating whales like to eat.

The whales prefer Chinook salmon but many of those runs are endangered or threatened.

Initial actions being discussed include ramping up hatchery production, restricting fishing in areas that are important to the orcas, offering financial compensation to recreational and commercial fishermen to stop or reduce fishing in certain areas and killing sea lions or birds that eat certain runs.

A map showing where Tahlequah's calf was last seen alive, and the first two sightings of the whale pushing its body around

Others are pushing to tear down four dams on the lower Snake River.

Tahlequah's calf died on July 24 and the 20-year-old mother has been pushing its body around with her ever since.

Scientists say the animal has now fallen behind her pod and is at risk of becoming isolated.

Orcas are highly sociable and live in large groups, known as pods, often with dozens of other animals.

They hunt in these groups, and animals that become isolated can suffer a potentially life-threatening food shortage, experts warn.

Until now, scientists had never seen an orca grieve for this long over a dead infant.

Scientists believe the rest of the pod likely knew Tahlequah was pregnant by communicating through sonar and are probably in mourning as well.

In June, researchers revealed that it was not uncommon for whales and dolphins to keep holding onto their dead offspring for days at a time.

Experts from the Dolphin Biology and Conservation at Oceancare in Cordenons, Italy, analysed 78 records of aquatic mammals' treatment of their dead between 1970 and 2016.

More than 90 per cent of the dolphins studied were attentive to their dead, with grieving females making up three quarters of these interactions.

Seventy five per cent of the incidents were of adult females looking after their dead calf, with some of them carrying decomposing bodies for up to a week.

The behaviour often involved one or more individuals attending to the deceased.
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WASHINGTON (AP) - Already threatened by escalating U.S. taxes on its goods, China is about to find it much harder to invest in U.S. companies or to buy American technology in such cutting-edge areas as robotics, artificial intelligence and virtual reality.

President Donald Trump is expected as early as this week to sign legislation to tighten the U.S. government's scrutiny of foreign investments and exports of sensitive technology.

The law, which Congress passed in a rare show of unity among Republicans and Democrats, doesn't single out China. But there's no doubt the intended target is Beijing. The Trump administration has accused China of using predatory tactics to steal American technology.

FILE- In this Jan. 6, 2017, file photo, a translucent screen shows smart car technology at the Intel booth during CES International in Las Vegas. Already threatened by escalating U.S. taxes on its exports, China is about to find it much harder to invest in U.S. companies and buy American technology in cutting-edge areas such as robotics, artificial intelligence and virtual reality. (AP Photo/John Locher, File)

"As a policy signal, it speaks with a very loud voice," said Harry Clark, head of the international trade practice at the law firm Orrick. "Leading decision makers and Congress are very concerned about technology transfer to China."

The Trump administration has already imposed tariffs on $34 billion in Chinese exports, is preparing taxes on a further $16 billion and has threatened to target an additional $200 billion of Beijing's exports and maybe still more.

As part of the same punitive campaign, Trump had initially ordered the Treasury Department to draft investment restrictions aimed specifically at China. But in late June, Trump decided instead to back Congress' effort to tighten existing investment restrictions and export controls on all countries, rather than China alone.

The new law strengthens reviews of foreign investment by the existing Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, or CFIUS, which is led by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. The committee can now review any investments that grant foreigners access to a U.S. company's high-tech trade secrets. Before the change, such reviews were done only when a foreigner gained control of a company.

The new law also gives the committee oversight of real estate deals that are deemed to pose a national security risk by putting foreigners in "close proximity" to government offices and military bases. The legislation will also crack down on deals that appear structured to evade such oversight.

Congress is also directing the committee to go beyond specific cases to identify patterns in foreign investment - if, for example, Chinese companies are acquiring a specific technology - and to work with U.S. allies that share its concerns about Beijing's high-tech ambitions.

"Treasury can now share information," said Rod Hunter, a partner at the Baker McKenzie law firm and a former White House economic adviser. "They used to have to do all kinds of backflips and workarounds with allied governments to deal with this sort of issue."

The new law also strengthens the Commerce Department's oversight of high-tech exports. Government agencies will identify sensitive "emerging and foundational technologies" that will be subject to tougher export controls.

Hunter said he thought the stricter oversight of high-tech exports could potentially impose a bigger impact on China than the tariffs the Trump administration has imposed on Beijing's exports to the United States.

Still, the new measures could burden U.S. companies that will find it harder to attract Chinese investment or to share with Chinese partners or customers technology that the U.S. government might deem sensitive.

"It could be that we're pushing American tech firms out of China," said Derek Scissors, China specialist at the conservative American Enterprise Institute.

The crackdown reflects a sharp reversal in U.S. attitudes toward Chinese investment. From virtually nothing in 2000, Chinese direct investment in the United States (including new plants and offices and acquisitions of American companies) reached a record $46 billion in 2016, according to the Rhodium Group research firm.

Chinese investors sank money into U.S. companies involved in artificial intelligence, robotics and blockchain technology, which is used to do business in cryptocurrencies. U.S. policymakers began to worry about what the Chinese were up to, especially after leaders in Beijing made their ambitions clear: They intend to nurture homegrown Chinese companies that will contend for global dominance in such fields as electric cars, robotics and medical devices.

In March, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative reported that Chinese investors were using money provided by Beijing to outbid private companies and pay above-market rates for technology and talent. And last year, a Defense Department report sounded the alarm about China obtaining technology that could have military uses.

"The line demarcating products designed and used for commercial versus military purposes is blurring," said the report from the Pentagon's Defense Innovation Unit Experimental.

It noted that virtual-reality gaming was becoming as sophisticated as what the armed forces use for battlefield simulations and that facial recognition technology used in social media can track terrorists.

Even before the new law, U.S. reviews of Chinese investments were becoming stricter. In January, the government effectively blocked the acquisition of the Dallas-based money transfer service MoneyGram by the Chinese firm Ant Financial. Its concern was that the deal would give China access to the financial records of millions of Americans, including members of the military.

The result has been a deepfreeze in direct Chinese investment in the United States: It tumbled 36 percent last year to $29 billion. In the first half of this year, such investment dropped to its lowest level in seven years - $1.8 billion - down 90 percent from the first six months of 2017, according to Rhodium Group.

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Austin Harouff, who has been accused of randomly killing a Florida couple and chewing the dying husband's face, is being sued by the dead woman's estate

A 21-year-old accused of randomly killing a Florida couple and chewing the face of the dying husband is now being sued by the dead woman's estate.

The estate of Michelle Mishcon Stevens filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against Austin Harrouff, who is charged with killing her and her husband John Stevens.

Martin County prosecutors say Harrouff attacked Michelle, 53, and John, 59, outside their home in Stuart on August 15, 2016, stabbing and beating them to death.

Deputies say they found the then-muscular former high school football player and wrestler in his underwear, making animal noises and biting John's face as he pinned his victim's body to the driveway.

Harrouff is alleged to have also wounded a neighbor who tried to save the couple.

One deputy ordered Harrouff off at gunpoint while another used an electric stun gun on him, but he wouldn't let go.

The estate of Michelle Mishcon Stevens filed a lawsuit Tuesday against Harrouff, who is charged with killing her and her husband John Stevens in a gruesome 2016 attack. He is pictured here being taken in custody after the murders

Martin County prosecutors say Harrouff attacked Michelle, 53, and John, 59, (pictured) outside their home in Stuart on August 15, 2016, stabbing and beating them to death

Deputies said they found the then-muscular former high school football player and wrestler in making animal noises and biting John's face as he pinned his body to the driveway

Finally, a deputy with a dog arrived and its bites enabled deputies to subdue Harrouff, who had no previous arrest record.

He told deputies, 'Help me, I ate something bad', and then admitted it was 'humans' as he spit out a piece of flesh, court documents show.

Harrouff begged deputies to kill him after they pulled him off Stevens, telling them: 'Shoot me now, I deserve to die'.

The lawsuit alleges that Harrouff wrote songs fanaticizing about fatally stabbing someone and that he had a long history of drug and alcohol abuse. Blood tests taken after the attack found nothing in his system.

Harouff is jailed without bond on first-degree murder charges and is facing a life sentence if convicted. Prosecutors have dropped the death penalty.

Jodi Bruce, Michelle's sister, said the family have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Harrouff because they are tired of waiting for a criminal trial.

Harouff (pictured shortly after the attack) is jailed without bond on first-degree murder charges and is facing a life sentence if convicted. Prosecutors have dropped the death penalty

Jodi Bruce, Michelle's sister, said the family have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Harrouff because they are tired of waiting for a criminal trial and want 'justice' for the couple

'We want justice for Michelle and John,' she said during a press conference on Tuesday.

'Austin is a monster, and he deserves to pay with his life or, at a minimum, to be locked up in prison for the rest of his life, but we have no control of that.'

Bruce also said she is 'tired and sickened' by how Harrouff has been portrayed as an 'ordinary college student'.

'Our only recourse at this point is to file a civil lawsuit against him and show the world exactly who Austin is,' she added.

Harrouff's father, Wade Harrouff, said on Tuesday that he expects the lawsuit to be settled, something the estate's lawyer, Evan Fetterman, denied.

'For too long, [the family] has watched as the focus has been on the man imprisoned for killing their loved ones rather than where it should be - on the victims,' he said.

Bruce also said she is 'tired and sickened' by how Harrouff has been portrayed as an 'ordinary college student'

The lawsuit claims that Harrouff was a 'habitual user' of LSD, hallucinogenic mushrooms, and marijuana.

It also alleges that he consumed a 'shroom concoction' on the night of the attack.

Two months after the attack, Harrouff told the Dr Phil television show that he was fleeing a demon he called 'Daniel' when he ran to the Stevens' home.

About 45 minutes before the attack, he had stormed out of a restaurant where he had argued with his father.

Earlier, his mother had found him at her home drinking cooking oil mixed with Parmesan cheese - the lawsuit alleges the concoction was spiked with hallucinogenic mushrooms.

The estate's lawyer, Evan Fetterman, said the family want to turn the case's attention to Michelle and John

Harrouff told host Phil McGraw that he doesn't clearly remember the attack.

He had to be hospitalized for two months as he ingested an unknown chemical from the Stevens' garage, burning his esophagus.

Robert Watson, Harrouff's criminal defense attorney, said that although his client may have experimented with drugs, he was not a chronic user and that the negative tests drug tests prove he had a mental breakdown on that fateful night.

He said Harrouff has no assets and will be spending the rest of his life jailed or in a mental hospital.

Fetterman said the family understands he has no money.

The next court hearing for Harrouff's criminal case is scheduled for September 5.
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador (AP) - Former President Tony Saca will plead guilty to accusations of embezzling hundreds of millions of dollars in government funds in return for a lighter sentence, his lawyers said Tuesday.

Attorney Lisandro Quintanilla said Salvadoran law allows for a more lenient punishment in view of a guilty plea.

Saca, 53, was arrested in October 2016 and accused of diverting $301 million in public money. He had faced up to 30 years in prison if convicted.

El Salvador's former President Tony Saca, right, sits with his former Presidential Secretary Elmer Charlaix, left, and other government officials charged with corruption, during an audience with the judge at Isidro Menendez Judicial Complex in San Salvador, El Salvador, Tuesday, Aug. 7 2018. Saca's lawyers said Tuesday the former president will plead guilty to accusations of embezzling hundreds of millions of dollars in government funds in return for a lighter sentence. (AP Photo/Salvador Melendez)

Under the deal, prosecutors will ask for Saca to get 10 years - five for embezzlement and five more for money laundering.

Prosecutors asked the court Tuesday for the shorter sentence and an abbreviated trial process in which the ex-president would formally enter a plea and which would skip the evidentiary phase.

Three associates also charged in the case, including his former private secretary and two ex-Cabinet secretaries, were also set to plead guilty and receive lesser sentences.

Saca, who was president in 2004-2009, did not respond to questions from journalists.

According to authorities, about $195 million of the misappropriated funds was diverted as cash that was later transferred to bank accounts and businesses, including some belonging to Saca.

Jorge Cortez, head of the financial investigation unit of the prosecutor's office, said authorities are still trying to determine where that money ended up due to the difficulty of tracing cash.

Cortez added that officials also anticipate seizing between $25 million and $35 million in assets and property.

Three more defendants are not covered by the deal, but their lawyers said they would seek a similar agreement.

Saca is one of three consecutive ex-presidents to be accused of illicit enrichment or diversion of public resources while in office.

Francisco Flores, who was president in 1999-2004, died of a stroke while under house arrest, and Mauricio Funes, who was in office in 2009-2014, is a fugitive from Salvadoran justice who was granted asylum in Nicaragua.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - Former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill did not say "the fascists of the future will call themselves anti-fascists," as suggested by a meme shared online Tuesday by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.

The quote, which appears with a picture of Churchill and the words "CHURCHILL ON THE LEFTWING(sic)" was tweeted by Abbott on his personal account, along with the comment: "Some insights are timeless."

David Freeman, a lecturer at California State University-Fullerton and director of publications at the International Churchill Society, called the meme a classic example of "Churchillian drift," which he described as quotes erroneously attributed to Churchill in the pursuit of adding intellectual heft.

FILE - In this June 6, 2018, file photo, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott speaks to fellow state officials and media in Austin, Texas. Abbott on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, pulled down a tweet after being mocked on social media for sharing a widely debunked quote attributed to Winston Churchill about fascism. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File)

Freeman said he didn't know the quote's origin but called it one of the more common false Churchill quotes floating around.

By late Tuesday morning, Abbott - who was criticized on social media for sharing the erroneous quote - had deleted the tweet, however he defended the sentiment. He said the quote reflected his feelings on "antifa," short for anti-fascists, calling them a danger to society and "antagonists to law enforcement."

"It was irrelevant to me who may or may not have said that in the past. I didn't want to be accused of plagiarism for saying it," Abbott said.

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This is part of The Associated Press' ongoing effort to fact-check misinformation that is shared widely online, including work with Facebook to identify and reduce the circulation of false stories on the platform.

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Find all AP Fact Checks here: https://www.apnews.com/tag/APFactCheck

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NEW ORLEANS (AP) - A Louisiana judge Tuesday rejected a motion by an African-American defendant to move his court case because of a Confederate monument in front of the courthouse.

Ronnie Anderson and his attorney Niles Haymer argued Anderson couldn't get a fair trial in the same place where a "symbol of oppression and racial intolerance" stands.

The monument of the unnamed Confederate soldier has stood outside the East Feliciana Parish courthouse north of Baton Rouge since 1909.

In this Aug. 1, 2018 photo, a statue commemorating fallen confederate soldiers stands on front of the East Feliciana Parish Courthouse in Clinton, La. Ronnie Anderson, an African-American man in Louisiana is asking for his case to be moved to another location because the courthouse where he's being tried has a Confederate monument in front of it. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

While Judge Kathryn Jones refused to move the case - saying Anderson filed his motion too late - she also threw out the most serious charges he faced, including firearms charges. He now only faces a traffic ticket.

But the monument issue could resurface again.

District attorney Sam D'Aquilla says he plans to refile one of the felony charges in September. If that happens, Haymer says he'll refile the change of venue motion again. Speaking of his client, he said: "He's still adamant that if he has to come back to that courthouse he will want me to file that same motion again."

He said he also plans to write the bar association about the appropriateness of the monuments in front of courthouses. He hopes that other attorneys also start raising the issue, and if he has other clients who want to file similar motions, he will.

D'Aquilla says he doesn't personally care if the statue stays or goes. But he said his community strives hard to avoid prejudice.

"We want him to get a fair trial. We want to be fair to people," he said.

Haymer's Confederate statue motion wades into a nationwide debate about Confederate symbolism that has come under renewed scrutiny in recent years. That scrutiny was triggered largely by two events: the 2015 shooting by Dylann Roof of nine black churchgoers in South Carolina and the 2017 deadly white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Supporters say the statues are a part of history honoring their ancestors; detractors say they, in effect, honor slavery and in many cases were erected during the Jim Crow era to intimidate black people and bolster white supremacy.

Confederate monuments dot the lawns of many Southern courthouses. In addition to the one in East Feliciana, a database compiled by the Southern Poverty Law Center lists 11 more in front of Louisiana courthouses.

Last year officials in northern Louisiana's Caddo parish voted to remove a Confederate monument in front of their courthouse, saying it would be better if it was not in front of the courthouse "where justice is to be administered fairly and impartially." A lawsuit stalled the move, but was recently dismissed by a federal judge.

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Follow Santana on Twitter @ruskygal.

In this Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 photo, a statue commemorating fallen confederate soldiers stands on front of the East Feliciana Parish Courthouse in Clinton, La. The statue of the unnamed Confederate soldier has stood since 1909 in front of the courthouse in East Feliciana Parish, hands resting on his rifle looking down on the flow of lawyers, jurors and defendants going into the white columned building. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

In this Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018 photo, Ronnie Anderson, an African-American man charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, poses for a photo with his lawyer Niles Haymer, left, in front of a confederate statue on the lawn of the East Feliciana Parish Courthouse, where he is facing the charge, in Clinton, La. Anderson is asking for his case to be moved to another location because the courthouse where he's being tried has a Confederate monument in front of it. Haymer said he's already heard from other lawyers interested in filing similar motions, and he may be filing the same motion for another client. For him, this case could become a catalyst for change. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
DETROIT (AP) - Detroit police allege that a murder suspect who was released after his case was botched 15 years ago is also being investigated as a suspect in homicides in two other states.

James Matthews, 65, is a suspect in two homicides in Michigan, three in Texas and one in New York, police told The Detroit News .

Authorities are investigating how a 2003 case against Matthews was mishandled after Detroit police arrested him for allegedly strangling a woman. Matthews was released from jail when a warrant against him wasn't filed within the required time frame of 72 hours.

Detroit detectives gathered enough evidence four months after Matthews' release to submit a murder warrant to prosecutors. But both police and prosecutors have said they don't know what happened to the case after that.

"He should have been charged years ago," said Detroit police Chief James Craig. "There's enough blame to go around: Prosecutors never did anything with the warrant request, and our detectives didn't follow up on it. The case just fell into a black hole."

Court records didn't list Matthews' attorney Tuesday. He's awaiting extradition from New York to Wayne County, where he faces a murder charge for the 2003 strangulation and an assault charge.

Police have linked Matthews' DNA to a sexual assault case in 2000, said Tracy Weinert, a Detroit officer. Weinert said Matthews and the victim knew each other, and he was arrested after the assault. But the victim never showed up to testify so she was deemed an uncooperative witness and he was released.

Officers contacted the victim in April and she agreed to testify. Weinert said it led to Matthews being charged with first-degree criminal sexual assault. He was also arrested in New York in April for a 2007 homicide, but a grand jury dismissed the charges.

"The victims are all black women in their 30s, and they were all strangled in abandoned houses," Weinert said.

He'll be extradited to Michigan within a few weeks, Weinert said.

"We believe (Matthews) is a serial killer who committed more murders after he should have been charged," Craig said. "It's a tragic situation."

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Information from: The Detroit News, http://detnews.com/
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Trump administration announced Tuesday that it will go ahead with imposing 25 percent tariffs on an additional $16 billion in Chinese imports.

Customs officials will begin collecting the border tax Aug. 23, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative said. The list is heavy on industrial products such as steam turbines and iron girders.

Tuesday's announcement was not a surprise. In April, the administration had announced plans to slap tariffs on 1,333 Chinese product lines worth $50 billion a year. After receiving public feedback, it cut 515 products from the list in June and added 284. On July 6, the U.S. began taxing the 818 goods, worth $34 billion, remaining from the April list.

FILE- In this March 27, 2018, photo, people record the reveal of the new iPad during an Apple event at Lane Technical College Prep High School in Chicago. The Trump administration's hit list of Chinese products facing import taxes includes key components used in gadgets that can be wirelessly operated through a smartphone or another device. The tariffs also will nail networking equipment that makes the internet work. Trump has also threatened to impose tariffs on a total of $500 billion worth of Chinese items. That could affect major technology products such as Apple's iPhones, which are assembled in China. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)

In the meantime, it sought public comment on the new items. On Tuesday, the administration said it had decided to go ahead with tariffs on 279 of the 284 items added in June; they're worth about $16 billion a year.

China has been retaliating in kind.

And the conflict is likely to escalate: The administration is preparing tariffs of up to 25 percent on an additional $200 billion in Chinese products. And President Donald Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on virtually everything China sells to the United States. Chinese imports of goods and services into the United States last year amounted to nearly $524 billion.

The world's two biggest economies are locked in a trade dispute over Washington's charges that China uses predatory tactics in a drive to supplant U.S. technological supremacy. The alleged tactics include cyber-theft and a requirement that American companies hand over trade secrets in exchange for access to the Chinese market.
LAS VEGAS (AP) - Fifteen states are siding with Nevada in a state Supreme Court fight against drug companies suing to prevent the use of their products to execute a condemned inmate.

In what a national death penalty expert on Tuesday called a setup for a showdown, documents filed with the Nevada Supreme Court argue that drug company Alvogen's effort to block the use of its sedative midazolam in the stalled execution of Scott Raymond Dozier in Nevada is part of a "guerrilla war against the death penalty."

"The families of these victims deserve justice," Arkansas' state Attorney General Leslie Rutledge said in a statement Tuesday. Arkansas is leading the 15 states that include Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah.

FILE - This undated file photo provided by Nevada Department of Corrections photo shows death row inmate Scott Raymond Dozier, who was convicted in 2007 of robbing, killing and dismembering a 22-year-old man in Las Vegas, and was convicted in Arizona in 2005 of another murder and dismemberment near Phoenix. Fifteen states are siding with Nevada as it fights drug companies battling the use of their products in an inmate's execution. In what a national death penalty expert on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, called a setup for a showdown, documents filed with the Nevada Supreme Court argue that drug company Alvogen's effort to block the use of its sedative midazolam in the stalled execution of Dozier in Nevada is part of a "guerrilla war against the death penalty." (Nevada Department of Corrections via AP, File)

"If Alvogen is allowed to succeed," the Monday friend of the court filing said, "there is a substantial risk that pharmaceutical companies - prodded by anti-death penalty activists and (defense attorneys) - will flood the courts with similar last-minute filings every time a state attempts to see justice done."

The states' brief points to an Arkansas Supreme Court decision that overruled a state court judge and allowed executions to go forward in what the states now argue is a nearly identical case involving the drug company McKesson Medical-Surgical and stocks of its drug vecuronium bromide. At the time, Arkansas was on track to execute eight men in an 11-day span. It ultimately put four men to death over eight days.

Alvogen in Nevada, like McKesson in Arkansas, argues that it doesn't want its drugs used in executions and that prison officials improperly obtained its products for a lethal injection.

Hikma Pharmaceuticals USA, a maker of the powerful synthetic opioid fentanyl, has joined Alvogen in a bid to stop the use of its product as the second of three drugs in a lethal combination never before tried in any state.

That was over a Nevada state attorney's objection that it was ironic the maker of a drug blamed for illegal overdoses every day was claiming its reputation would be hurt by being associated with a lawful execution.

A judge in Las Vegas who is due to hear arguments Sept. 10 is expected to decide Thursday whether Sandoz Pharmaceuticals, maker of the third drug, the muscle paralyzing drug cisatracurium, can join Alvogen and Hikma in the Nevada case.

That could pit at least three prominent pharmaceutical firms in a Nevada court against more than half the 31 states in the U.S. with the death penalty.

"I think states are attempting to make this a showdown," said Robert Dunham, director of the Death Penalty Information Center in Washington, D.C.

Nevada, which hasn't executed an inmate since 2006, has become a model of the trouble that death penalty states have had in recent years obtaining drugs for lethal injections.

Dunham characterized the states backing Nevada as, "for the most part a gathering of states that have engaged in the most questionable practices in efforts to obtain execution drugs."

A judge blocked Dozier's execution just hours before it was scheduled in July so she could hear Alvogen's claim that Nevada improperly obtained midazolam.

Nevada state Attorney General Adam Laxalt has asked the state Supreme Court to quickly overrule the judge so that Dozier's twice-postponed lethal injection can be put back on track for mid-November.

Dozier, 47, is a twice-convicted killer for drug-related slayings in 2002 in Phoenix and Las Vegas. He has not responded to email and messages through his attorney from The Associated Press.

He told the Reno Gazette Journal for a Monday report that he wants the sentence he received in 2007 carried out rather than spend life in prison. He called the uncertainty of his fate "torture."

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Associated Press writers Michelle L. Price in Las Vegas and Andrew DeMillo in Little Rock, Arkansas, contributed to this report.
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Maryland's senators are asking Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin to review the transaction between a venture fund with Russian ties and a company deeply involved in Maryland's election infrastructure.

U.S. Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin made the request to Mnuchin in a letter Tuesday. Mnuchin also chairs the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States.

The senators are asking the panel to review the transaction between AltPoint Capital and ByteGrid LLC.

AltPoint Capital is a venture fund whose largest investor is Russian oligarch Vladimir Potanin. ByteGrid is a U.S. web hosting and data center company that hosts Maryland's voter registration system, candidacy and election management system, online ballot delivery system and unofficial election night results website.
NEW YORK (AP) - Gina Rodriguez credits "Jane the Virgin" with many things: changing her career (she won a Golden Globe for her work on The CW series in 2015), giving her a platform for activism and humanitarian work, and leading her to the love of her life.

She is now engaged to Joe LoCicero, who she met when he guest-starred in an episode of the show in 2016.

"I never was the girl that dreamt about my wedding," said Rodriguez, 34, in an interview Tuesday.

FILE - In this March 4, 2018 file photo, Joe LoCicero, left, and actress Gina Rodriguez arrive at the Oscars in Los Angeles. The couple, who are engaged, met when he was a guest star on "Jane the Virgin." (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP, File)

"I did always pray that I would meet a really cool partner, whether it was going to be male or female, that I was going to have somebody that was going to uplift me and support me and want me to shine and not want to take away from that but want to shine as well in their own right and I found it in Joe, and I found it on the set of 'Jane.'"

Rodriguez revealed details of their relationship while on a media tour for the feminine products company Always. The brand wants to bring awareness to what's known as "period poverty," where American girls from low income families miss school because they don't have access to menstrual products.

"It devastates me. It breaks my heart," said the actress.

Rodriguez is returning to work on "Jane the Virgin" this week. She'll direct the first episode of the upcoming fifth and final season.

She said she knows how the series will end but doesn't know exactly how the writers will get there. She also said fans of the show are "not getting gypped" by its ending because the creator, Jennie Snyder Urman, always imagined it as a story told in five chapters.

"As much as people are saddened that the show is going to be done after season five ... you're getting the gift of the whole thing. Everything Jennie ever thought of."

Rodriguez already has a number of other projects in the works, including a live action "Carmen Sandiego" film for Netflix. She has also remade the Mexican movie "Miss Bala," about a beauty contest winner forced to work for the mob after she witnesses a murder.

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Follow Alicia Rancilio at http://www.twitter.com/aliciar/

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Online:

http://www.cwtv.com/shows/jane-the-virgin/
Egypt had 78 thousand Hajj visas in 2018 for both the lottery and private sector Hajj visas, Saudi Ambassador in Cairo Osama al-Nugali said Monday.

Al-Nugali added that the Saudi embassy in Cairo spare no effort for easing the procedures of having the visas, and meeting other requirements for the pilgrims.

It also cooperates with the Egyptian Hajj mission and provides it with the needed support to accomplish its duties, the ambassador said.

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NEW YORK (AP) - Police in New York City say they're in contact with the possible mother of a baby boy found floating in the East River in an area popular with tourists near the Brooklyn Bridge.

In a statement released Tuesday, police said the 36-year-old woman filed a domestic incident report with the department on Monday. Police believe the child's father fled to southeast Asia.

A tourist from Oklahoma first noticed the baby late Sunday afternoon. Her husband waded into shallow water near the Manhattan shoreline, retrieved the baby and started CPR. He said the diaper-clad baby wasn't breathing and showed no pulse.

A medical examiner has not yet determined how the boy, about 8 months old, died. Police say he showed no signs of trauma.
UNITED NATIONS (AP) - Bangladesh is accusing Myanmar of failing to tackle the concerns of over 1 million Rohingya Muslims who fled the country and is urging the U.N. Security Council to take action to ensure their safe return home.

Bangladesh's U.N. ambassador, Masud Bin Momen, said in a letter to the council circulated Tuesday that while his government continues to engage with Myanmar "in good faith" on arrangements to return the Rohingya, "we regret that the necessary conditions for safe and sustainable return do not exist in Myanmar."

"Nor has Myanmar taken any demonstrable effort to address the concerns of the Rohingyas and the international community," Momen said in the letter.

FILE - In this Jan. 15, 2018, file photo, Rohingya Muslim women with their children stand in a queue outside a food distribution center at Balukhali refugee camp 50 kilometers (32 miles) from, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The human rights group Human Rights Watch is calling on Bangladesh's government to abandon controversial plans to relocate Rohingya refugees to a small, uninhabited island said to be at severe risk of serious flooding. (AP Photo/Manish Swarup, File)

The Rohingya face official and social discrimination in predominantly Buddhist Myanmar, which denies most of them citizenship and basic rights because they are looked on as immigrants from Bangladesh even though the families of many settled in Myanmar generations ago. Dire conditions led more than 200,000 to flee the country between 2012 and 2015.

The latest crisis began with attacks by Rohingya insurgents on Myanmar security personnel last Aug. 25. The military responded with counterinsurgency sweeps and a scorched-earth campaign against Rohingya villages. It was accused of widespread human rights violations, including rape, murder, torture and the burning of Rohingya homes. Thousands are believed to have died and about 700,000 fled to Bangladesh.

The U.N. human rights chief, Zeid Ra'ad al-Hussein, has insisted that the possibility of genocide against Rohingya was real and has called for the issue to be referred to the International Criminal Court.

Momen urged the Security Council to adopt a resolution and take "concerted and determined action to address the Rohingya crisis" so the refugees in Bangladesh can return to Myanmar.

He accused Myanmar of attempting to play down "the catastrophic scale of the crisis and its grave impact on Bangladesh" by saying the number of people who fled the country can't be higher than a half million.

Momen also called Myanmar's claim that Bangladesh is violating a 1998 demarcation treaty by building bunkers within 150 feet of the border "false and baseless." He said the closest bunker is 654 feet from the border line.

The Security Council is planning to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Myanmar's violent crackdown on the Rohingya at an open meeting Aug. 28 to be addressed by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who has called the Rohingya crisis "ethnic cleansing."

British Ambassador Karen Pierce, this month's council president, said the U.K. wants the meeting to focus on gaining "unconditional access" to Myanmar for the U.N. refugee and development agencies so they can work with the Myanmar and Bangladesh governments "to make a credible plan to get the refugees back home in safety, dignity and security."

Momen said Bangladesh wants the council to ensure those conditions in Myanmar so the Rohingya can return.

He called the framework for cooperation between the U.N. and the Myanmar government "a step in the right direction."

"There is, however, a need for transparency and a demonstration of concrete deliverables so that the Rohingyas can gain the required trust and confidence that, upon returning to their homes in Rakhine State, they will not be subject to further discrimination and violence," Momen said.

He also stressed that "it is of the utmost important" that the Rohingyas still in Rakhine "are guaranteed unconditional protection" through the creation of United Nations-administered "safe zones."

Momen said Bangladesh would welcome assistance from the U.N. to house Rohingya refugees in shelters that can withstand the current monsoon rains, to protect victims of "grave human rights abuses including sexual violence" from traffickers and exploitation, and to provide basic education and skills.
NEW YORK (AP) - Ruby Rose is making history with her latest role as Batwoman, the first openly gay superhero to headline a TV series.

Batwoman will be introduced in a December crossover event between the network's other DC Comics shows, "Arrow", "The Flash" and "Supergirl."

A stand-alone series about Batwoman, whose real name is Kate Kane, is in development for the 2019-20 TV season. Kane is described as a highly-trained street fighter with a passion for social justice and a flair for speaking her mind.

Ruby Rose attends the LA Premiere of "The Meg" at TCL Chinese Theatre on Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

Rose wrote Tuesday on Instagram that she's "thrilled and honored" and "an emotional wreck" over the news. As a young, gay person, she never felt represented on TV.

Rose gained stardom when she was cast in season three of Netflix's "Orange is the New Black."

Ruby Rose attends the LA Premiere of "The Meg" at TCL Chinese Theatre on Monday, Aug. 6, 2018, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)
BOCA RATON, Fla. (AP) - Authorities say Florida Atlantic University has canceled a graduation ceremony following a "credible threat."

The Boca Raton university announced the cancellation Tuesday just minutes before the 5 p.m. commencement ceremony was set to begin. FAU Police Chief Sean Brammer said during a news conference that a staff member found a sticky note with a threat to the ceremony in a women's restroom. Officials wouldn't say what the threat was.

The Palm Beach Post reports that friends and family members of the graduates were already seated in the school's auditorium when the entire student union building was evacuated.

The university had already hosted two other graduation ceremonies earlier in the day. Officials say the evening ceremony, where 462 students were scheduled to participate, will be rescheduled to another day.

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Information from: The Palm Beach (Fla.) Post, http://www.pbpost.com
ESPN and ESPN+ will broadcast Serie A games as part of a multi-year rights agreement with the top Italian league.

More than 340 games will be available on ESPN+, ESPN's streaming service that was launched in April. ESPN will broadcast a Serie A match each week, and additional games will be shown on ESPN2 and in Spanish on ESPN Deportes.

Coverage will also include news and highlights from the league. Among the teams that play in Serie A are Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

The league opener between ChievoVerona and Juventus on Aug. 18 will be available on ESPN+. The match will mark Cristiano Ronaldo's debut with Juventus after the five-time FIFA Player of the Year was acquired from Real Madrid for an Italian record transfer fee of $131.5 million last month.
WASHINGTON (AP) - Clues to the mystery of why Viking colonies in Greenland flourished and fell have been found in the DNA of medieval walrus bones housed in more than a dozen European museums.

For almost 500 years, the Norse descendants of Erik the Red built churches and manor homes and expanded their settlements on the icy fringes of European civilization. On Greenland, they had elaborate stone churches with bronze bells and stained glass, a monastery, and their own bishop. Their colonies at one time supported more than 2,000 people.

And then they vanished.

Scholars have long wondered why. "Why did they flourish and why did they disappear?" asked Thomas McGovern, an anthropologist at Hunter College in New York. "And did their greatest success also contain the seeds of their demise?"

Researchers who visited museums across western Europe to assemble a rare pile of artifacts - fragments of medieval walrus skulls - reported in a study in Wednesday's Proceedings of the Royal Society B that the fate of these medieval outposts may have been tied to the demand for walrus ivory among rich Europeans.

The study revealed that during the height of the Norse settlement - from about 1120 to 1400 - at least 80 percent of the walrus samples were directly sourced from Greenland.

"It's possible that almost all the walrus ivory in western Europe during the High Middle Ages came from Greenland," said Bastiaan Star, a scientist at the University of Oslo and one of the study's authors. "This result tells a very clear story."

A dozen years ago, many historians believed that the changing climate of medieval Europe was the main reason Norse settlements in Greenland expanded and went extinct. This view was popularized in Jared Diamond's 2005 book "Collapse."

But evidence such as walrus bones at archaeological sites in Greenland and historical documents - including church records of tithes paid in walrus tusks - suggested another possible factor: that the Vikings' descendants thrived on a lucrative trade in walrus tusks, which were sold to Europe's elite and carved into luxury items, such as ivory crucifixes, knife handles, and fancy dice and chess sets.

Archaeologists suspected that famous ivory artifacts from the Middle Ages - such as the Lewis Chessmen , a set of expressive and intricately carved statuettes from the 12th century now housed in the British Museum in London - were made from walrus tusks from Greenland. But they could not get permission to bore into these precious artifacts for genetic analysis.

James Barrett, another study author and an archaeologist at the University of Cambridge, was "opening dusty boxes and poring through museum catalogues" in galleries in Norway, France, Germany, Ireland, and the UK when he realized that the tusks were often sold attached to fragments of walrus skulls - and that the bone could provide the DNA he needed. Barrett didn't get access to the Lewis Chessmen, but his hunt produced 23 medieval artifacts for analysis, after examining hundreds of related objects.

"This is the first study that conclusively shows that Greenland walrus exports obtained a near-monopoly in Europe," said Poul Holm, an environmental historian at Trinity College in Dublin, who was not involved in the study.

McGovern, also not part of the study, said of the research: "It's changing the story that we've been telling for years."

If walrus ivory was the key to Greenland's medieval wealth, experts now suspect a collapsing market for the ivory may have helped doom the outposts. The Norse Greenland settlements vanished in the 1400s, sometime after life in continental Europe was badly rattled by the onset of the Black Death and the beginning of the Little Ice Age, an era of cooler climates. These calamities undermined demand for walrus ivory, said Barrett.

After "a bonanza tied to the novelty of bringing exotic products to the market" in Europe, Holm said, "the fading allure of the product locks the society in decline."

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Follow AP Science Writer Christina Larson on Twitter at @larsonchristina .

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The Associated Press Health & Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
NORFOLK, Va. (AP) - A special prosecutor in Virginia was appointed Tuesday to investigate potential election law violations in a tight congressional race that could help Democrats reclaim the U.S. House.

Political observers said the probe could hurt Republican U.S. Rep. Scott Taylor in what's become an increasingly competitive district along Virginia's coast. But it will likely depend on the investigation's outcome.

The special prosecutor will focus on possible discrepancies among signatures that were gathered by Taylor's campaign staff to help an independent congressional candidate get on November's ballot.

FILE - In this Friday, Oct. 7, 2016, file photo, Virginia's 2nd District Congressman Scott Taylor speaks during an interview in his campaign office in Virginia Beach, Va. A special prosecutor in Virginia was appointed Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, to investigate potential election law violations in a tight congressional race that could help Democrats reclaim the U.S. House. Political observers said the probe could hurt Taylor in what's become an increasingly competitive district along Virginia's coast. But it will likely depend on the investigation's outcome. (AP Photo/Steve Helber, File)

The move was widely seen as an effort by Taylor's campaign to split the Democratic vote in Virginia's 2nd District. Taylor is running against Elaine Luria, who is backed by national Democrats. The independent candidate is Shaun Brown, a former Democrat who lost to Taylor in 2016.

Such efforts are not unheard of. But this week, four people told local public radio station WHRO-FM that they never signed a petition to get Brown on the ballot, even though their names appear among the signatures collected by Taylor's staff.

Another woman told the station that her dead husband's name is on the petition. And Virginia Del. Glenn Davis, a Republican, has told media outlets that his name appeared on two petitions. He said he signed one. His first name was misspelled and his address was incorrect on another.

The revelations prompted the commonwealth's attorney for Virginia Beach to request a special prosecutor. A judge appointed Donald R. Caldwell, the commonwealth's attorney for Roanoke.

Taylor's office said he was aware that his staff had volunteered to collect signatures for Brown. But he said he was not at all involved.

"My campaign has a zero-tolerance policy for inappropriate activities," he said in a statement. "Recently we became aware of the inconsistencies in a voter petition process along with everyone else."

Taylor said he previously fired his campaign manager over separate issues, but "current knowledge underscores that decision." It also prompted him to fire a campaign consultant.

Taylor said he will cooperate fully with the probe. But he said "these irregularities have no bearing on Shaun Brown's right to be on the ballot."

"National Democrats are engaged in a systematic effort to disenfranchise 2nd District voters by marginalizing a qualified African American candidate."

Brown said she was "shocked" by the Taylor campaign's tactics.

"There was no effort to work with my Republican opponent," said Brown, who added that she and her supporters collected signatures outside grocery stores and at outdoor events.

"It's hard to even fathom," she said. "In 2016, he had refused to even appear on stage with me at a couple different forums. Some of his supporters called me 'Aunt Jemima.'"

Brown said she intends to win in November. She's facing trial in October on charges that she defrauded the federal government through a summer meal program for children. Her first trial ended with a hung jury.

Taylor, a former Navy SEAL, won his first term in 2016 by nearly 23 percentage points. Political observers say he fits the district well with his moderate social views and conservative stances on military and economic issues. It is home to the world's largest Navy base in Norfolk and one of the nation's largest veteran populations.

But national Democrats think they have a shot at unseating Taylor with Luria, a former Navy commander, as well as with anger toward Republican President Donald Trump. The district has been labeled as either leaning Republican or as a toss-up.

Political observers said the tactics of Taylor's campaign staff are common enough. But an investigation into wrongdoing is rare.

Quentin Kidd, a political science professor at Christopher Newport University, said Taylor's opponents could be mobilized and some of his supporters turned off.

"If this is going to be a really close race, Scott Taylor could have turned a couple-hundred-vote win into a couple-hundred-vote loss," he said.

But Geoffrey Skelley, a political analyst at the University of Virginia Center for Politics, said the probe's outcome is what matters.

"Does this matter at the end of the day to most people? Probably not," he said. "It really depends on what the special prosecutor finds."
Hundreds of additional police officers are being deployed to Chicago city neighborhoods where 12 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a weekend of violence and gunfire.

Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson said 400 additional officers are already patrolling areas on the West and South Sides where more than 70 shootings occurred. Another 200 will be added by the coming weekend.

Johnson refused to give details as to how the extra officers will be deployed, saying criminals are tactical and he doesn't want to give them the department's playbook.

'We have ordered a series of strategic deployments aimed at keeping our community safe,' he said. 'These additional deployments will continue to supplement existing manpower.'

Hundreds of additional police officers are being deployed to Chicago city neighborhoods where 12 people were killed and dozens more were injured (Two women cry outside the Stroger Hospital in Chicago)

One of the 12 victims, Kenny Ivory, 17, was shot and killed as he rode his bike on the South Side on Sunday afternoon. Pictured is the cordoned off scene of his fatal shooting

The twelve victims include Kenny Ivory, 17, who was shot and killed while he rode his bike on the 7600 block of South Union Avenue in the Gresham neighborhood, after getting into an argument with a group of men also on bikes. He died in hospital 30 minutes later.

Another 17-year-old, Jahnae Patterson, was shot in the face while standing with a group of people on the sidewalk on the 1300 block of South Millard Avenue in Lawndale, on the Southwest Side. Two men had walked up to the crowd and opened fire, killing Patterson and injuring five people including an 11-year-old boy and 14-year-old boy who were both shot in the leg.

Other fatalities include Earl Young, 30, Joshua Campbell, 22, Eric Johnson, 22, Kendall Brown, 26, Kenyate Sparks, 29, Donald Norris, 19, Charles Green, 32, Nicholas Cox, 23, Ron L. Johnso, 55, and a man in his 50s, CBS local reported.

There were so many trauma victims at Stroger Hospital on Sunday morning that their family and visitors were barred from entering.

Paramedics described the city as a 'war zone', while police said it as being one of the most violent weekends of late.

The locations of the 11 named fatal shooting victims during Chicago's weekend of violence

TIMELINE OF FATAL CHICAGO SHOOTINGS Friday, 7:57 p.m.: Earl Young, 30, was shot in the 7700 block of South Shore and was declared dead at the scene. Saturday, 12:56 a.m.: Joshua Campbell, 22, was shot in the 1700 block of North Mason. He was declared dead at Loyola University Medical Center. Saturday, 2:24 a.m.: Eric Johnson, 22, was shot near 122nd Street and South State. He was declared dead at Roseland Hospital. Saturday, 12 p.m.: A man in his 50s, who has not yet been named, was caught in the crossfire of bullets between two people shooting at each other from opposite sides of the street. He was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Sunday, 1:03 a.m.: Kendall Brown, 26, was shot in the 4600 block of South Winchester. He was declared dead at Mt. Sinai hospital. Sunday, 2:34 a.m.: Jahnae Patterson, 17, was among six people shot in the 1300 block of South Millard. She was declared dead at an unidentified location. Sunday, 3:37 a.m.: Kenyate Sparks, 29, was shot in the 1100 block of South Springfield. He was declared dead at Stroger Hospital. Sunday, 4:15 a.m.: Donald Norris, 19, was among four people shot in the 1600 block of North LeClaire. He was pronounced dead at an unidentified location. Sunday, 4:17 a.m.: Kenny Ivory, 17, was shot in the 7600 block of South Union. He was declared dead at University of Chicago Hospital. Sunday, 6:50 a.m.: Charles Green, 32, was among five people shot in the 0-100 block of North LeClaire. He was declared dead at Stroger Hospital. Sunday, 7:50 p.m. Nicholas Cox, 23, was fatally shot in the 2700 block of South Dearborn. Monday 12.00a.m.: Ron L. Johnson, 50, was killed and a 55-year-old woman was wounded when they were shot by someone in a ski mask in the 13000 block of South Drexel Avenue, Altgeld Gardens neighborhood on the Far South Side. He was pronounced dead on scene at 12.50am. Advertisement

Johnson said in a Monday press conference that more needs to be done to hold to hold gunman to account.

'It is the same people who are pulling the triggers in some of these communities. This isn't a widespread issue among citizens of the city. This is a small subset of individuals who think they can play by their own rules because they continue to get a slap on the wrist when we arrest them,' Johnson said.

So far, no arrests have been made.



In order to increase the numbers of cops on patrol, some officers will have their regular shifts extended, while other units will have their days off canceled.

'We are taking resources from other areas of the city,' Johnson said. 'These are discretionary resources, so we are not taking any manpower from a particular district and relocating them; we're taking manpower from units that do other things.'

But as Johnson was announcing an increased police presence in certain neighborhoods, community and political leaders were promoting other ideas to suppress the violence.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Danny Davis said the crime environment in Chicago has been years in the making, due to neglect.

'People not having enough space. People not having enough food. People not getting the type of education that they need to get,' Davis said. 'People who aren't sure of what the next day is going to bring them. People who've lost hope, who've given up on their government.'

And several politicians highlighted the importance of family in the fight to curb the violence.

Jahnae Patterson, 17 (left) and Kenny Ivory, 17, (right) were among the 11 fatalities over the weekend

Nicholas Cox, 23, of the 2700 block of South Dearborn Street, died in hospital at around 8.26pm Sunday, after being shot in the abdomen and buttocks

Kenyate Sparks (left) and Donald Norris (right) died within minutes of each other in the early hours of Sunday

Kendall Brown (left) and Earl Young (right) were gunned down over the weekend

Alderman Walter Burnett Jr. condemned drugs and its profits as 'blood money,' and said parents shouldn't look away when their children come home with goods the adults know they didn't give them the money to buy.

'There's too many blind eyes in our community,' Burnett said.

Shooters reportedly targeted outdoor gatherings, a block party and even a funeral over the weekend.

Witnesses described terrifying scenes outside a 24 hour laundromat as a 19-year-old boy ran to find sanctuary at the store as someone shot at him - only to find an employee had locked the door.

The teen said he'd been walking to a gas station at 11.40pm Sunday when someone began shooting at him. He fled to the laundromat, in the 3900 block of South Archer Avenue in the Brighton Park neighborhood, where customers and staff screamed and took cover.

When he couldn't get in, he fled and ran to hospital for treatment for a gunshot wound to his arm.

Miguel Patino had been one of around two dozen patrons doing their laundry at the time.

'The kids were freaking out,' he said, adding that he'd often hear gunshots at night while walking his dog. 'They were screaming and crying.'

The bloodiest spate of shootings occurred in just a two-hour stretch in the early hours on Sunday, when 30 people were shot between midnight and 3am.

Crystal Robinson revealed that her son was among the 59 injured over the weekend, as she urged people to 'put the guns down Chicago!'

A man wipes his eyes outside the Stroger Hospital in Chicago, after leaving the emergency room due to overwhelming crowds of family and friends of shooting victims on Sunday

'The Worst phone call u can EVER get is that ur son has been Shot!!!' she wrote on Facebook.

'Thank Everyone for All the phone calls and text it has been a long morning for me and my family but my son is ok!!!! We Stay Prayed Up!'

The high number of shootings made it difficult for both police and medical staff to keep track. At one point, police said Stroger Hospital had been placed on trauma lockdown, ABC7 reports.

The hospital, however, denied this but acknowledged the 'unusually high volume of patients' over a 24-hour period.

Chicago Police Chief of Patrol Fred Waller said during a Sunday press conference that most of the shootings were being traced back to gangs.

'We know that some of these incidents were targeted and are related to gang conflicts in those areas,' Waller said.

He went on to express frustration that gang members do not fear the consequences and that they were taking advantage of large summer crowds to seek revenge.

'They take advantage of that opportunity and they shoot into a crowd, no matter who they hit,' Waller said.

'I promise this city, we won't be defeated. We won't be overrun by that small element that's committing these reckless acts.'

Police said in some of the cases shooters sprayed bullets indiscriminately into crowds in rival territories. The Tribune counted a total of more than 70 people shot between Friday evening and early Monday morning.

The weekend violence stood in contrast to a general decline in crimes in the city where shootings are down 30 percent and murders down 25 percent, according to police.

The spate of deadly shootings took place across multiple Chicago neighborhoods mostly on the West and South sides, from 5pm on Friday to 5am Monday

Detectives investigate a shooting where multiple people were shot on a sidewalk on Sunday in Chicago

Nevertheless, Chicago's official murder count, at 310 killings before the weekend, was the highest in the country and far eclipsed those of America's two largest cities -- New York and Los Angeles.

'Incidents of either random or targeted shootings on our streets are totally unacceptable,' said Fred Waller, a Chicago Police Department commander.

Violence in the Midwestern city often spikes in the summer months, when the warm weather means more people are outside. Waller said there were a number of outdoor events over the weekend that were vulnerable to gang-related revenge attacks.

'What we have are multiple areas with crowds,' Waller said. 'They take advantage of that opportunity.'

The latest spasm of bloodshed occurred at the same time as the famed Lollapalooza music festival was taking over a large swath of the city's downtown, requiring a heavy police presence.

The festival was not affected by the violence, Waller said. The shootings surged in the early morning hours, well after the end of the festival's daily schedule of performances.

Chicago's gun violence has been the subject of two high-profile protests this summer, in which demonstrators temporarily blocked major expressways to call attention to their demands for more investment in poor communities.

Federal authorities have increased their efforts in the city, creating a special task force in cooperation with local police to target those who repeatedly commit gun crimes.

Police have also taken over 5,500 guns off the streets this year as part of a new initiative to stem the flow of illegal firearms in the city to curb gun violence.

Police have said violent crime has declined overall in Chicago but there has still been more than 1,700 shootings this year alone.

Chicago ended 2017 with fewer homicides, 650, than 2016, when there were 771. Although the drop was significant, it exceeded the combined number of killings in New York City and Los Angeles, which are the two US cities bigger than Chicago.

Chicago's gun violence has drawn widespread attention, including from Donald Trump and his lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, who blamed the problem on Chicago's long-time 'Democratic rule' in a series of tweets on Sunday and Monday.

Bystanders watch on as police continue to investigate the spate of shootings in various neighborhoods

Chicago Police officers and detectives investigate a shooting where multiple people were shot on Sunday, August 5, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois

'63 murders this weekend in Rahm Emmanuels Chicago,' he tweeted, incorrectly. 'His legacy more murders in his city than ever before. Its only because of Democrat brain washing that he has even a chance of remaining '

President Trump said last year he was sending in federal help to fight the gun violence in the city because it had reached 'epidemic proportions'.

The former New York City mayor also tweeted his support for Chicago's former superintendent, Garry McCarthy, referring to him as 'Jerry' and calling him a 'policing genius'.

McCarthy announced this year that he plans to run for mayor next February against Democratic Mayor Rahm Emanuel, who fired Mr McCarthy in 2015 after the release of dashcam video showing a white police officer shooting a black teenager 16 times.

Misspelling Mr Emanuel's last name, Giuliani tweeted: 'He can do a lot better than Mayor Emmanuel who is fiddling while Chicago burns.'

Chicago has some of the nation's strictest gun laws, but the city still recovers more firearms each year than any other place in the nation.

However, the 60 percent of firearms used in violent crimes in Illinois come from out-of-state, mostly from Indiana, which has far more lenient gun laws.
The first set of US sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early on Tuesday under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump.

The US sanctions target financial transactions that involve US dollars, Irans automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

Sanctions targeting Irans oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

The stiff economic sanctions ratchet up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after Mr Trump pulled the US out of the international accord limiting Irans nuclear activities.

Mr Trump declared the landmark 2015 agreement had been horrible, leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

Promises kept: Today, President @realDonaldTrump "renewed sanctions on Iran as he followed through on vows to unravel the Obama-era nuclear deal with Tehran," Rich Edson reports for Fox News.



Read more in tonight's edition of West Wing Reads: https://t.co/xb9E3Be3a3 pic.twitter.com/8tpA7up5fn  The White House 45 Archived (@WhiteHouse45) August 7, 2018

Iran accused the US of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by the Obama administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest.

European allies said they deeply regret the US action.

As the sanctions loomed on Monday, Mr Trump said in a statement, We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilising behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

Mr Trump warned that those who do not wind down their economic ties to Iran risk severe consequences.

Despite Trumps claims, the accord is working and delivering on its goal of limiting Irans nuclear programme, said a statement by European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the UK.

The United States is working with allies to pressure the Iranian regime and achieve an agreement that denies all paths to a nuclear weapon.https://t.co/YQtmSA9hZX pic.twitter.com/qIUskRMfMC  The White House 45 Archived (@WhiteHouse45) August 6, 2018

The ministers said the Iran deal is crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world, and the European Union issued a blocking statute on Monday to protect European businesses from the impact of the sanctions.

A senior administration official said the United States is not particularly concerned by EU efforts to protect European firms from the sanctions.

Iranian president Hassan Rouhani said that Iran still can rely on China and Russia to keep its oil and banking sectors afloat. Speaking in a television interview, he also demanded compensation for decades of American intervention in the Islamic Republic.

Iranian president Hassan Rouhani struck a hard line as the US restored some sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal (Iranian Presidency Office via AP)

Months of uncertainty surrounding the sanctions have already further hurt Irans economy. The countrys rial currency has tanked, and the downturn has sparked protests across the nation.

The Trump Administration wants the world to believe its concerned about the Iranian people, Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a statement posted to Twitter.

But, he said, the reimposed sanctions would endanger ordinary Iranians.

US hypocrisy knows no bounds, he said.

Trump Administration wants the world to believe it's concerned about the Iranian people. Yet the very first sanctions it reimposed have canceled licenses for sales of 200+ passenger jets under absurd pretexts, endangering ordinary Iranians. US hypocrisy knows no bounds.  Javad Zarif (@JZarif) August 6, 2018

US officials insisted the American government stands with the people of Iran and supports many of their complaints against their own government.

National security adviser John Bolton said Irans leadership is on very shaky ground, but he insisted economic pressure from the Trump administration is not an attempt at regime change.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said sanctions are an important pillar in US policy toward Iran and will remain in place until the Iranian government radically changes course.

Theyve got to behave like a normal country. Thats the ask. Its pretty simple, said Mr Pompeo, en route on Sunday from a three-nation trip to Southeast Asia.

Today, the United States is taking action to reimpose nuclear-related sanctions with respect to Iran.



Full statement from President Trump: https://t.co/tfDYCDyfDT  The White House 45 Archived (@WhiteHouse45) August 6, 2018

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a firm foe of the Iranian government, said the sanctions symbolise the determination to block Irans regional aggression as well as its continuous plans to arm itself with nuclear weapons.

He called on the countries of Europe to join the US, saying, The time has come to stop talking; the time has come to do.

The US has long designated Iran as the worlds foremost state sponsor of terrorism, Mr Pompeo noted on Sunday, adding that the Islamic Republic cannot expect to be treated as an equal in the international community until it halts such activities.

He said that theres no evidence today of a change in their behaviour, and in the meantime were going to enforce the sanctions.
Paedophiles who download indecent images of children should get tougher sentences, the Solicitor General has said.

Robert Buckland said the use of the internet to download or share images of child abuse is as insidious a crime as direct sexual assault.

The Government minister told The Daily Telegraph: Im talking about people who are using the internet to exploit children. Its the gateway. It facilitates the commission of other offences, it can lead on to more horrendous crimes.

Official figures show that last year 2,528 individuals were sentenced at Crown Courts in England and Wales for the offence of taking, permitting to be taken or making, distributing or publishing indecent photographs or pseudo photographs of children.

Of those, a quarter were jailed, nearly half received a suspended sentence, and one in five was sentenced to a community penalty.

Mr Bucklands remarks appear to be at odds with the position of the countrys most senior child protection police officer.

Last year, Norfolk Chief Constable Simon Bailey sparked controversy by suggesting those who view indecent images of children should not always face criminal charges.

He said lower level offenders should be dealt with through counselling and rehabilitation while officers focus on the most dangerous individuals with access to children and those looking at the most serious images.

Norfolk Police Chief Constable Simon Bailey (Norfolk Police/PA)

Appearing at a Commons committee earlier this year, Mr Bailey, the national policing lead for child protection, noted that most of those who view indecent images of children are not sent to prison.

He emphasised that he was not going soft on the issue, but told MPs in March that the system was failing.

In new comments on Tuesday, Mr Bailey said the number of sexual offences reported and investigated by police is growing year on year.

He said the response from law enforcement in the UK is one of the most robust of anywhere in the world, with 400 people arrested every month on suspicion of child sexual abuse and exploitation offences.

Mr Bailey added: However, more must be done to stop abuse happening in the first place.

All those with contact with children need to play their part in keeping them safe, particularly parents talking to children about healthy relationships and the risks online.

Internet companies need to acknowledge their social responsibility and do far more to stop access to sexual abuse images and videos and prevent abuse happening on their platforms.

This would enable police to pursue offenders who pose the most harm to children and are using sophisticated technology to evade detection.

Figures indicate that forces in England and Wales recorded an average of 15 child sex offences involving the internet every day in 2016/17.

While acknowledging police are dealing with a large number of cases, Mr Buckland said that this shouldnt detract from the seriousness of this offending.

A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: Online child sexual exploitation is sickening, and offenders who take or distribute indecent images already face 10 years in prison  with record numbers given custodial sentences in 2017.

Last year, we also made it illegal to communicate sexually with a child, and we will shortly set out further measures to protect child victims in our Victims Strategy.

However, sentencing is a matter for independent judges who make decisions based on the full facts of each case.

The Telegraph also reported that the Government is planning to allow victims and members of the public to challenge sentences handed down for downloading indecent images.

Punishments for certain offences can be queried under the unduly lenient sentence scheme.

A spokeswoman for the Attorney Generals Office said: As set out in the manifesto commitment, we are working with the Ministry of Justice to look at extending the scheme further. No decisions on future extensions have been made.
Egypt expressed on Tuesday its sincere condolences to Indonesia over the death of nearly 100 people in an earthquake that struck the Asian countrys Lombok Island, a popular tourist destination.

In an official statement, the Egyptian foreign ministry extended Egypts condolences to the people and government of Indonesia, stressing Egypts support to the country.

The statement also expressed Egypts confidence in the Indonesian peoples ability to overcome their plight.

On Sunday, a 7.0-magnitude earthquake on Lombok left at least 98 people dead and injured 236.

According to media reports, the deadly temblor has left at least 20,000 people homeless, and sent thousands of tourists fleeing. It was followed by multiple aftershocks, including one on Monday that registered a 5.4 magnitude.

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England will be out to turn around their poor recent record at Lords in this weeks second Test against India.

Trevor Bayliss side go into the match looking to build on a thrilling opening win at Edgbaston and build a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

India, though, will be hoping to inflict Englands fifth defeat in their last 10 Tests at HQ and restore parity.

Home discomfort

Ishant Sharma did the damage on Indias last visit to HQ (Anthony Devlin/PA)

In the last five years, England have lost more Tests than they have won at their most traditional home ground  four to three, plus draws with Sri Lanka in 2014 and 2016.

India played their part in that record with a win in 2014, when Ishant Sharma blew away the lower order to take seven for 74 and set the seal on a 95-run defeat.

There have been two defeats to Pakistan, including a nine-wicket rout earlier this summer when only Jos Buttler and Dom Bess half-centuries staved off an innings loss, and a 405-run thumping by Australia in 2015.

The missing man

Ben Stokes misses the second Test (Ben Birchall/PA)

A common thread links Englands three wins in that time  and once again it is less than encouraging news.

Ben Stokes, absent from this weeks squad due to a court case on a charge of affray, was named man of the match in two of the three games.

Against the West Indies in 2015 the all-rounder hit 92 and 101 before taking three for 38 in the tourists second innings, while against the West Indies last year he took six for 22 before top-scoring with 60 in Englands first innings.

Moeen Alis off-spin was the decisive factor against South Africa last summer, with match figures of 10 for 112, but even then Stokes made 56 in the first innings.

Short-term trend

Salman Butts Pakistan were well beaten and disgraced as Stuart Broad, right, hit 169 (Anthony Devlin/PA)

Englands all-time record at Lords is positive, with 53 wins and only 32 defeats from 134 games  and the recent slump looks even stranger when set against the immediate precedent.

In the previous five years, from 2009 to 2013 inclusive, England won eight of their 10 Lords Tests including some emphatic scorelines.

Pakistan were beaten by an innings in the controversial 2010 Test marred by spot-fixing, there was a 347-run success against Australia in 2013 while the Windies and Bangladesh succumbed by 10 and eight wickets respectively.

There was a draw with Sri Lanka in 2011 while the only defeat in the five-year period was by 51 runs to South Africa in 2012.
One in 10 households in the UK still do not have access to the internet, according to new figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The number of households with the ability to get online has remained unchanged between 2017 and 2018 at 90% according to the stats, despite general internet use continuing to rise.

According to the figures, nine out of 10 people (89%) in Britain have used the internet at least twice weekly in 2018, with email the most common internet activity and mobile phones the most popular way to get online.

Online shopping among the over 65s has also trebled in the last decade, the figure has risen from 16% in 2008 to 48% today.

(PA Graphics)

The ONS figures also revealed an increase in the number of adults watching videos on demand from streaming services such as Netflix, rising to 46% from only 29% in 2016.

The stats showed that daily internet use has more than doubled since 2006 from 35% to 86% in 2018, but weekly internet use has declined from 16% in 2016, to only 4% in 2018.

They also reveal that almost all adults aged 25 to 34 (97%) have accessed the internet while on the go, away from home or work, compared to only 39% of those aged 65 and over.

Experts from UK Addiction Treatment (UKat) have warned the increase in daily internet use could be a sign of a growing addiction to getting online among younger users.

Dr Mateen Durrani, general adult psychiatrist said: Internet use is as normal as breathing for almost all adults in the UK. But the addictive nature of it is a new yet very real and concerning phenomenon.

Having our emails at our fingertips day or night encourages an always on mental attitude and discourages downtime from work, family time and even human social interaction.

The internet has created a world in which we can socialise, source information, create, game, shop, and never switch off.

Many adults have healthy relationships with the internet, but some people are over-using and are ultimately becoming dependent.

The fear of missing out is a worrying concept as it fuels living online rather than in real time.

Unfortunately with internet addiction, we fear the worst is yet to come, especially for the younger and future generations.

However, the ONS figures did also show that despite the rise in internet use, 9% of Britons had not used the internet at all in the last three months.
Facebook has denied a report claiming it had asked several large US banks to share financial information about customers.

The social network was accused of requesting card transactions, shopping habits and checking-account balances for a potential feature on Facebook Messenger.

JP Morgan Chase was one of the banks Facebook was alleged to have contacted (Yui Mok/PA)

Facebook hit back at the claims published by the Wall Street Journal, which stated that it had been in contact with the likes of JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Citigroup and US Bancorp.

In a statement, the company said it was not actively asking financial services companies for financial transaction data.

Like many online companies with commerce businesses, we partner with banks and credit card companies to offer services like customer chat or account management.

The idea is that messaging with a bank can be better than waiting on hold over the phone  and its completely opt-in.

(PA/Dominic Lipinski)

Were not using this information beyond enabling these types of experiences  not for advertising or anything else.

A critical part of these partnerships is keeping peoples information safe and secure.

The accusations come as Facebook bears the brunt of the Cambridge Analytica scandal, which is still undergoing investigation.

Last month, the Information Commissioners Office (ICO), Britains data watchdog, announced its intention to fine the social network 500,000 for breaches of the Data Protection Act, as well as criminal action against Cambridge Analyticas parent company SCL Elections.
Donald Trump has warned countries doing business with Iran that they will not be doing business with the US.

Mr Trump also said in an early morning Twitter session that the sanctions placed back on Iran by the US were reintroduced in his pursuit for world peace.

The first set of US sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early on Tuesday under an executive order signed by Mr Trump.

They targeted financial transactions that involve US dollars, Irans automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

More US sanctions targeting Irans oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

Mr Trump tweeted: Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States.

He added: I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!

The stiff economic sanctions ratchet up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after Mr Trump pulled the US out of the international accord limiting Irans nuclear activities.

Mr Trump declared the landmark 2015 agreement had been horrible, leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

The United States is working with allies to pressure the Iranian regime and achieve an agreement that denies all paths to a nuclear weapon.https://t.co/YQtmSA9hZX pic.twitter.com/qIUskRMfMC  The White House 45 Archived (@WhiteHouse45) August 6, 2018

Iran accused the US of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by the Obama administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest. European allies said they deeply regret the US action.

As the sanctions loomed, Mr Trump said in a statement: We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilising behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

Mr Trump warned that those who dont wind down their economic ties to Iran risk severe consequences.

Despite Mr Trumps claims, the accord is working and delivering on its goal of limiting Irans nuclear programme, said a statement by European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

The ministers said the Iran deal is crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world, and the European Union issued a blocking statute on Monday to protect European businesses from the impact of the sanctions.

A senior administration official, briefing reporters under ground rules requiring anonymity, said the United States is not particularly concerned by EU efforts to protect European firms from the sanctions.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran can still rely on China and Russia to keep its oil and banking sectors afloat. Speaking in a television interview, he also demanded compensation for decades of American intervention in the Islamic Republic.

Iranian president Hassan Rouhani struck a hard line as the US restored some sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal (Iranian Presidency Office via AP)

Months of uncertainty surrounding the sanctions have already further hurt Irans economy. The countrys rial currency has tanked, and the downturn has sparked protests across the nation.

The Trump Administration wants the world to believe its concerned about the Iranian people, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a statement posted to Twitter. But, he said, the reimposed sanctions would endanger ordinary Iranians.

US hypocrisy knows no bounds, he said.

US officials insisted the American government stands with the people of Iran and supports many of their complaints against their own government.
A gang of human traffickers who made a fortune smuggling Albanian migrants across the Channel into Britain in a fleet of high-speed powerboats are facing jail.

Leonard Powell, 66, and his son Alfie, 39, and Wayne Bath, 38, used four rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) to provide a 'very lucrative' ferry service.

They also planned to start a personalised service bringing individuals over on the back of jet-skis, the Old Bailey heard.

Albanians were picked up on a French beach and raced across the channel to the Kent coast where they were left to melt into the countryside.

The Powells used a pub car park near their home in Farningham, Kent, to meet with their team of boat skippers and Albanian 'travel agents' before each migrant run.

Leonard Powell, 66, (left), his son Alfie, 39, (centre) and Wayne Bath, 38, (right) used four rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) to provide a 'very lucrative' ferry service for migrants. They all were convicted of conspiracy to facilitate the commission of a breach of the immigration law of the UK

Also standing trial at the Old Bailey was Arthur Nutaj, 39, (left) and Saba Dulaj, 23 (centre) who were also convicted. Leonard's other son George Powell (right) has already admitted being part of the operation, along with two other smugglers

A gang of human traffickers who made a fortune smuggling Albanian migrants across the Channel into Britain in a fleet of high-speed powerboats are facing jail. Pictured: Eighteen migrants aboard the traffickers' boat the White Scanner which began to sink off the UK coast

Leonard Powell, Alfie Powell and Wayne Bath stood trial at the Old Bailey along with Albert Letchford, 42, Alan Viles, 27, Francis Wade, 59, Saba Dulaj, 23, and Arthur Nutaj, 39.

They were arrested on 14 August 2016 after a National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation.

The Powells, Bath, Letchford, Nutaj and Dulaj, were all convicted of conspiracy to facilitate the commission of a breach of the immigration law of the UK.

The jury unanimously convicted them after more than 29 hours of deliberations.

Viles and Wade were cleared after denying involvement in the conspiracy.

Leonard's other son George Powell has already admitted being part of the operation, along with two other smugglers.

Albanians were picked up on a French beach and raced across the channel to the Kent coast where they were left to melt into the countryside. Pictured: Migrants on a beach near Calais

The gang used Gillingham Marina to launch their operations at first, travelling down to Escalles - a village 12km west of Calais - where they would meet crowds of would-be migrants who had gathered for the clandestine trip. Pictured: A jetski which was purchased by the gang

Pictured: Map showing where the smugglers would launch from to pick up migrants in France

Robert Stillwell and Mark Stribling were caught with 18 Albanian migrants on board after running into difficulties off the coast of Kent in the early hours of 29 May 2016.

Prosecutor Timothy Probert-Wood QC said the Powell organised the service while Bath and Letchford helped them by towing, storing and crewing their vessels and driving the newly-arrived migrants to their destinations once they arrived.

Albanians Dulaj and Nutaj were the 'travel agents', sourcing and communicating with the would-be migrants and liaising with the Powells.

'The evidence shows that they also helped with providing onward transport after a successful crossing, enabling the migrants to disappear once they entered the UK,' said Mr Probert-Wood.

The gang used Gillingham Marina to launch their operations at first, travelling down to Escalles - a village 12km west of Calais - where they would meet crowds of would-be migrants who had gathered for the clandestine trip.

Pictured: Leonard Powell (right) meeting with Albanian gang members Sabah Dulaj and Artur Nutaj (centre) in a car park

Pictured: George Powell (left) meeting with Albanian Artur Nutaj

On 11 May, the morning after a successful migrant run, their boat 'Rebel' a RHIB with twin 100hp engines, was found tied up at Dymchurch beach, unattended at the slipway.

Early that afternoon Bath arrived and told Coastguard officers the boat was his and he had planned to go skate fishing with three friends and have a barbecue in Dungeness, but the poor weather conditions prevented them.

Once 'Rebel' had come to the attention of the authorities the smugglers bought a new vessel - a grey RHIB named 'Antares.'

On 26 May French police on Escalles noticed a boat come into the beach but then back out and speed off without any migrants after a car signalled to it using its headlights.

The Powells used a pub car park near their home in Farningham, Kent, to meet with their team of boat skippers and Albanian 'travel agents' before each migrant run

Once 'Rebel' had come to the attention of the authorities the smugglers bought a new vessel - a grey RHIB named 'Antares.' Pictured: The Antares RHIB which was abandoned by the gang

A fourth vessel, 'The Boat With No Name' (pictured), was bugged in an operation involving Kent police and the French authorities

The smugglers then bought another white RHIB called the 'White Scanner' for 12,500, which sailed off from Dymchurch two days later.

Messages from migrants' phones show that by 11.37pm the Scanner was 'in real difficulty, its occupants fearing for their lives', and the Antares went out to meet it.

Mr Probert-Wood said: 'There was the scene, the White Scanner drifting, 18 migrants on board, 17 men, one woman, the two people who stick out are Stribling and Stillwell.'

A rescue operation was mounted with a HM Border Force boat and helicopter belonging to the Coastguard.

The 'Antares' was spotted by the helicopter floating 50-100m from Dymchurch beach, unmanned.

The smugglers Stribling, 35, and Stillwell, 33, were arrested and pleaded guilty to the conspiracy, and of the 18 Albanians on board - 17 men and one woman - none had leave to remain in the UK.

Pictured: The rigid-hulled inflatable boat Antares being driven to Dymchurch

Many of the migrants had been sent information as to the location of the Escalles pick-up point. Pictured: Migrants on beach near Calais

Many of the migrants had been sent information as to the location of the Escalles pick-up point.

The case was referred to the National Crime Agency who launched Operation Sugate to snare the shadowy gang of people smugglers.

NCA Branch Commander Mark McCormack said the main purpose was to protect the migrants and stop gangs with no experience at sea ferrying people across.

A fourth vessel, 'The Boat With No Name', was bugged in an operation involving Kent police and the French authorities.

Francis Wade and Albert Letchford had sailed the boat out of Ramsgate but soon ran into difficulty.

Wade had just completed a two day 250 course, designed to help beginners, before setting off to France.

He was secretly recorded saying: 'It ain't half choppy out there.

'It is not my liberty, it is my life I am thinking about - it is that choppy out there.'

Pictured: A burnt out Mitsubishi Shogun that was abandoned and set on fire after it had been used to tow the boat Antares, which was later rescued from the English Channel with 18 migrants on board

Prosecutor Timothy Probert-Wood QC said the Powell organised the service while Bath and Letchford helped them by towing, storing and crewing their vessels and driving the newly-arrived migrants to their destinations once they arrived. Pictured: The Boat with No Name

Pictured: The rigid-hulled inflatable boat Rebel which was found abandoned on the beach at Dymchurch with children's life jackets on board

He can be heard cursing because he cannot get the GPS system to work while typing in a French postcode which only works on a Sat Nav - 'We have been out here for half a f****** hour'.

It circled in the busiest shipping lane in the world before swerving into the path of a fishing boat and a cargo vessel.

Two weeks later undercover officers watched as the gang bought a jet-ski for future people smuggling runs.

Bath, of Stonebridge House, Sea Approach, Warden, Sheerness, Kent; Dulaj, of no fixed address; Letchford, of (82) Rochester Road, Gravesend, Kent; Leonard Powell, of Hill Top Farm, London Road, Dartford; Viles, of (2) Ash Tree Road, Folkestone, Kent; Wade, of (22) Gill Avenue, Wainscott, Rochester, Kent; Alfie Powell, of no fixed address, and Arthur Nutaj, of (19) Wheatley Gardens, north London, all denied conspiracy to facilitate the commission of a breach of the immigration law of the UK.
Italys Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has visited victims of the fiery crash of a tanker truck carrying highly flammable gas near Bologna.

He said it was important to understand what happened to prevent future tragedies. The trucks driver was the only person killed.

I am here today to demonstrate the closeness of the government to the people who are suffering, but also to understand why so that these things are not repeated, said Mr Conte, who plans to travel later to the scene of another deadly crash in southern Italy.

Prosecutors have opened an investigation into the Bologna accident, triggered when the tanker truck carrying liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG, rammed into a truck stuck in a line of traffic.

The tanker immediately caught fire, and then exploded a short time later across eight lanes, causing part of the raised highway to collapse.

Police video shows that by the time of the explosion, most vehicles had been evacuated from the highway.

Highway police said only the tanker driver died in the crash, revising earlier reports by the carabinieri that there were two dead.

One person was killed in the explosion (Giorgio Benvenuti/ANSA via AP)

Dozens of people were injured, many with burns or cuts from flying glass when windows of buildings nearby were shattered in the blast.

The victim was identified as 41-year-old Andrea Anziolin of the northern city of Vicenza.

Maybe it was a moment of distraction, or a wave of sleepiness, Bologna prosecutor Giuseppe Amato told RAI radio. But it is too early to say with certainty.

Mr Conte will later travel to the southern region of Puglia, where a van packed with immigrant farmworkers overturned after colliding with a truck carrying tomatoes in the southern Puglia region, killing 12.

It was the second such fatal accident in the area in the space of three days.
The first ever bid to excavate a First World War training trench in the Republic of Ireland is under way.

Volunteers combed the site of the former Birr Barracks which housed staff and, briefly, servicemen from the Leinster Regiment in Crinkill, in Co Offaly in the Irish midlands.

The Sixth Battalion spend a period there some time after the outbreak of hostilities in 1914 in preparation for combat in Gallipoli.

The buildings were destroyed during the Irish Civil War around the time of independence in 1922.

In the 1950s the walls were carted away for stonework, and all that remains is the perimeter wall and some bastions.

Stephen Callaghan, a local historian and student, helped organise the research.

He said: We are hoping that this dig will give us an insight as to how training trenches in Ireland were used to help train Kitcheners new army for the First World War.

With this dig we are hoping to find anything that will give us an insight as to who made the trenches, when might they date from, and how they were used.

So an example of that might be, if we are getting shell cases in the bottom of them it might be an indication that they are doing live fire or even just using blanks and practising musketry in them to basically get ready for life on the Western Front.

The first ever dig for First World War training trenches at the former Birr barracks in Co Offaly/ Handout/Ray Hayden/PA.

Around 210,000 Irishmen fought for the British forces during the First World War, many motivated by fighting for the freedom of small nations like Belgium.

The Regiment raised seven Battalions and was awarded 32 Battle Honours, four Victoria Crosses, losing 1,980 men during the course of the war.

The Leinsters were disbanded in 1922 once the Irish Free State was established following the Irish War of Independence (1919-1922) and all five British Regiments recruiting from the Irish Free State were disbanded.

Mr Callaghan said the dig was facilitated by the Irish Archaeological Field School as part of community outreach efforts.

Brian Kennedy from Birr Historical Society said 100 men from Birr died during the conflict and 6,000 enlisted at the former barracks.

To be able to see where they trained before they went out into the battlefields of Flanders and Normandy and so on is absolutely huge for us.

He added: To be able to actually see them and the dimensions of the trenches and how deep they went down and so onto see that they still exist 100 years on, that is huge from our point of view as historians.
Police investigating the shooting dead of a man in West Belfast have made an arrest.

Raymond Johnston, 28, died after being shot at a house in Glenbawn Avenue just before 8pm on February 13.

His partner and her 11-year-old child were in the house at the time.

Detectives investigating the murder of Raymond Johnston in Belfast in February have made an arrest. Paul Faith/PA.

A man aged 41 was arrested on Tuesday under the Terrorism Act, a Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) statement said.

He was detained in the Poleglass area of West Belfast and has been taken to Musgrave serious crime suite in the city centre for questioning.

Detectives from the serious crime branch are investigating the killing.
Pass rates for pupils sitting Scottish exams remain high but have fallen year-on-year, according to official figures.

The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) published exam results for 135,000 pupils on Tuesday.

There were 191,951 entries for Higher exams in 2018, with 147,419 attaining a pass grade of A-C.

Many thanks to the pupils @FirrhillHS for sharing their exam results with me. Well done to all. Now heading to meet young people @whocaresscot to celebrate their results with @sqanews. pic.twitter.com/IQ5clDcuZM  John Swinney (@JohnSwinney) August 7, 2018

The attainment rate of 76.8% is sightly lower than 77% in 2017, when there were 194,813 entries.

The attainment rate was 91.1% for the National 4 exams, with 96,613 passes, while pupils achieved 218,201 passes at National 5, with a success rate of 77.4%.

The figures are down on 2017 when the attainment rate for National 4 was 92.8% and 79.5% for the National 5.

Advanced Higher passes rose to 19,585, with a pass rate of 80.5%.

Education Secretary John Swinney met pupils at Firrhill High School in Edinburgh (David Cheskin/PA)

Deputy First Minister and Education Secretary John Swinney said: Results day is a time to celebrate the achievements and dedication of learners right across the country, especially in this the Year of Young People.

Higher passes remain stable despite a continuing fall in the number of young people on the school roll while the number of Advanced Highers being taken continues to grow.

It is important to remember that we will always see slight variations in pass rates and the results show that we have a robust, credible assessment system in place.

To address pupil and teacher workload, this is the first year where unit assessments have been removed from National 5 and the overall pass rate remains high at 77.4%.

It is clear that our young people have performed strongly, against rigorous standards, and are now in an exciting position to decide what they go on to do next.

Pupils (left to right) Nicola Bryan, Rebecca Black, Beth MacGinty and Abby Hay celebrate exam results at Kilgraston independent school for girls in Bridge of Earn (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Opposition parties congratulated pupils but voiced concern about falling attainment levels.

Tory education spokeswoman Liz Smith accused the SNP administration of complacency.

Theres no escaping the fact that, for a government which claims its priority is education, these are disappointing statistics, she said.

There has been no improvement in overall attainment across the board and these statistics confirm there are still major issues about the mix between National 4 and National 5 qualifications.

Labours Iain Gray said: The real concern is that these falls in attainment are now clear trends over a number of years.

It would appear that years of cuts to school budgets and teacher numbers, along with the narrowing of the curriculum and reduced course choice, are now having an impact on exam results.

If you need support with your #examresults, head to @mywowscotland at https://t.co/KuttCJLeYO or call the Helpline on 0808 100 8000 - weve answered over 600 calls today so far! pic.twitter.com/yy9j4x632d  Skills Development Scotland  (@skillsdevscot) August 7, 2018

Green MSP Ross Greer said: Careful consideration needs given to this third consecutive drop in Higher passes and the potential of it becoming a trend.

Meanwhile, figures from the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (Ucas) show 29,830 Scottish students have had their UK higher education places confirmed, up 4% on last year.

A record number of Scottish students secured a place at a Scottish university, up 4% to 28,970.

The number of prospective students from the most-deprived areas of the country successfully getting a place at a UK university rose by 5% to 4,340.

29,830 Scottish students have had their UK higher education places confirmed - a 4% increase compared to #SQAresults day 2017. https://t.co/TqhuCfC6UR  UCAS Corporate (@ucas_corporate) August 7, 2018

Mr Swinney said the figures demonstrated good progress on widening access.

NUS Scotland president Liam McCabe said: While it is encouraging to see a modest rise in the proportion of Ucas acceptances for those from the most disadvantaged backgrounds, we cant lose sight of the fact there is much more to do to ensure more students from the poorest areas make it into higher education.

Skills Development Scotland (SDS) has a dedicated exam results helpline on 0808 100 8000.
A teenage asylum seeker has excelled in his exams despite fearing deportation to Pakistan.

Somer Umeed Bakhsh thanked his teachers after getting six As and a B in his National 5 exams at Springburn Academy in Glasgow.

The 15-year-old and his brother Areeb, 13, have lived in Glasgow with their parents Maqsood and Parveen since their family fled Pakistan in 2012 when their father was subjected to death threats due to his Christian faith.

Somer, right, with his younger brother Areeb (Church of Scotland/PA)

The UK Government has repeatedly rejected the familys plea for asylum, largely because officials do not believe they would be at risk in Pakistan where blasphemy carries the death penalty.

More than 80,000 people have signed a petition calling on the Home Office not to deport the family who are being supported by the Church of Scotland.

Somer, who wants to be an astrophysicist, said: Im extremely pleased by my exam results.

I want to thank my primary school teachers who provided me with a strong foundation and my secondary school teachers who put in the hard work and taught me.

I am also very thankful for my parents who, despite the stressful situation, always encouraged and supported me.

Above all, I want to thank God who helped me to stay focused on my studies in the midst of these tough times.

Springburn Academy head teacher Linda Hamilton said: We are absolutely delighted. He has worked very, very hard and he deserves the excellent results that he has got.

Minister Rev Linda Pollock said: Somer is very happy with his results and his parents are very proud of what he has achieved despite the stress and uncertainty the whole family are living under.

He is an extremely bright boy and very conscientious in everything he does.

This is a 15-year-old boy in a middle of a traumatic situation and look at what he has achieved.

I am very proud of him and these results are testament to his character.

Just think of what this young man would be capable of in the future if he is allowed the chance to flourish in our country, which is his country.

I hope that the Home Office will re-examine the familys case, stop treating them as numbers and acknowledge them as human beings because they have so much to give to Scotland.
Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi discussed Egyptian-Emirati relations as well as the latest the regional developments with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Cairo on Tuesday, the Egyptian presidency said in a statement.

The two officials discussed boosting the close relations between the two countries in different fields as well as the continuous coordination and consultation between the two states on the challenges facing Arab national security.

They also stressed their rejection of all forms of interference in the internal affairs of Arab countries, and expressed their support for efforts to reach political solutions to the different crises in the region.

The duo last met in Cairo in April, days after El-Sisi's re-election for a second four-year term.

El-Sisi also sat down with bin Zayed in February in the Emirati capital Abu Dhabi, where they focused on combating terrorism and depriving extremist groups of funding.

Egypt and the UAE are part of a Saudi-led Arab alliance that severed diplomatic ties and transport links with Qatar in June 2017, saying that Doha had been supporting terrorist groups and meddling in their internal affairs. Qatar has denied the accusations.

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Northern Irelands Police Ombudsman has warned that more divisions could be created unless a proper debate is held on satisfying the needs of victims of the conflict.

Dr Michael Maguire said competing narratives of the past were more polarised than ever before, while the political impasse at Stormont made it likely the problem would worsen.

The Northern Ireland Office (NIO) is consulting on establishing bodies to address the toxic legacy, including a criminal investigations unit, an oral history archive and an independent commission on information retrieval.

Police Ombudsman Dr Michael Maguire has called for a proper debate on dealing with the past (David Young/PA)

Need to ask what we are trying to achieve by dealing with the past. Needs of victims, families and future generations will not be served if we fail to have some sense of where we want to go. Michael Maguire @FeileBelfast  Police Ombudsman NI (@PONIPressOffice) August 7, 2018

Dr Maguire said: There is little debate about what we are trying to achieve beyond platitudes to answer the needs of victims and families.

In my view, the needs of victims and families, and indeed future generations, will not be served if we fail to have some sense of where we want to go in dealing with the problems of the past.

Will we end up creating more divisions? Our experience is not positive.

Dr Michael Maguire addressing @FeileBelfast on Dealing With The Past #WeAreFeile30 pic.twitter.com/HgQrAK9yzr  Police Ombudsman NI (@PONIPressOffice) August 7, 2018

Dr Maguire attended an event at the West Belfast Festival on Tuesday.

He has repeatedly warned about the impact of investigating hundreds of past incidents on his independent offices limited resources.

He has completed some investigations but said that, at times, family members of those who died did not believe his conclusions if they did not fit long-held, inter-generational beliefs about what happened.

I would suggest that the competing narratives of the past in Northern Ireland are more polarised now than ever before.

Some would argue that controlling the narrative of the past is the new battleground.

He had noticed a cherry-picking approach  the banking of conclusions which are liked and a challenge to the conclusions which are disagreed with.

Again this illustrates the contested space that is our history.

As we move forward and what happened here is subject to more substantive investigation and research and the past is really considered, there will be uncomfortable truths for everyone. Michael Maguire @FeileBelfast  Police Ombudsman NI (@PONIPressOffice) August 7, 2018

Criminal justice organisations in Northern Ireland have struggled under the weight of a mountain of investigations into the past.

That has also affected the police, inquests and judicial review courts.

Dr Maguire warned against doing nothing, or simply the minimum.

Need to move beyond entrenched positions. There is no collusion lie, it did exist and people died as a result... likewise any position which takes the view collusion was active policing policy, systematic and endemic is at odds with all the evidence I have seen. Michael Maguire  Police Ombudsman NI (@PONIPressOffice) August 7, 2018

I cant help but think there is an element of wishful thinking here, as the problem will gradually resolve itself as those involved in the conflict die.

This seems to me a particularly heartless solution as it leaves the majority of families who have been affected in Northern Ireland without answers and it continues to burden criminal justice organisations with a problem they cannot resolve without further funding.

As I enter my final year I am thinking about the future and whether we have the capacity to do things differently. The end result must be one of building a stable and shared society rather than undermining its foundations. Michael Maguire @FeileBelfast  Police Ombudsman NI (@PONIPressOffice) August 7, 2018

He said that approach was impractical since issues within families are becoming intergenerational.

Put simply, the problem will not go away but continue to fester and create difficulties.
Boris Johnson is resisting demands that he apologise for his comments about Muslim women wearing burkas, branding his critics ridiculous.

Conservative Party chairman Brandon Lewis ordered the former foreign secretary to apologise over a newspaper article in which the former foreign secretary compared women in the face-covering veils to bank robbers.

The call followed a hail of criticism for Mr Johnsons remarks, which were described as offensive by Foreign Office minister Alistair Burt and bigotry by former Tory chair Baroness Warsi.

A source close to Mr Johnson made clear he was not retracting his comments.

It is ridiculous that these views are being attacked  we must not fall into the trap of shutting down the debate on difficult issues, said the source.

We have to call it out. If we fail to speak up for liberal values then we are simply yielding ground to reactionaries and extremists.

Writing in the Daily Telegraph on Monday, Mr Johnson said he did not want Britain to follow European countries like Denmark which have banned the burka and niqab in public places.

But he described the burka as ridiculous and weird and said women wearing them looked like letter-boxes or bank robbers.

Mr Burt, who served under Mr Johnson until his resignation as foreign secretary last month, said he agreed with his former boss that the burka should not be banned.

But he told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I would never have made such a comment, I think there is a degree of offence in that, absolutely right.

And Lady Warsi accused Mr Johnson of adopting the dog-whistle tactics of former Donald Trump aide Steve Bannon in the hope of attracting support from right-wing Tories for an eventual leadership bid.

Good to see colleagues condemning comments by #Boris

Thank you @BrandonLewis for asking for an apology - and I assume a disciplinary process if one is not forthcoming? https://t.co/yBBVxfkFrL  Sayeeda Warsi (@SayeedaWarsi) August 7, 2018

Repeating her call for an independent inquiry into Islamophobia in the Conservative Party, Lady Warsi told Channel 4 News: Muslim women should not be a useful political battleground for Old Etonians.

It is crass and it must stop, and it must be condemned by the leadership right from the Prime Minister down.

Mr Johnson has long campaigned for equal treatment for women in developing countries, especially the provision of education for girls.

His article stated that there was no requirement in the Koran for women to cover their faces, and attacked bullying (and) oppressive male-dominated governments which tried to force them to do so.

But in a message on Twitter, Mr Lewis said: I agree with Alistair Burt. I have asked Boris Johnson to apologise.

Labours equalities spokeswoman Naz Shah said an apology was not enough.

Boris Johnsons comments werent accidental, they were a calculated attack in a national newspaper, made weeks after he reportedly met with Steve Bannon, said Ms Shah.

Clearly the Tory party has an issue with Islamophobia, but over 24 hours later the Prime Minister is still yet to say a word.

Theresa May must condemn Boris Johnsons comments unequivocally and order an inquiry into Islamophobia in her party.

I've written to @PennyMordaunt and @BrandonLewis to ask what action will be taken against Boris Johnson for his ugly and naked Islamophobia.



When Muslim women are being attacked in the street, his comments are dangerous and cannot be laughed off. pic.twitter.com/szEf4cpaf2  Naz Shah MP  (@NazShahBfd) August 7, 2018

The Muslim Council of Britain said Mr Johnsons intentional usage of the words contained in his Daily Telegraph column appeared to be an attempt to pander to the far right.

The MCB said Tories must now deliver the independent inquiry into Islamophobia in the party which it has been demanding. And it said that any inquiry must look into Mr Johnsons previous incendiary remarks that Islam is the problem and that Islamophobia was a natural reaction.

The council also asked if Tory MP Nadine Dorries, who backed a ban on the burka, would be spoken to by the party chairman.

Mr Johnsons father, Stanley, came to his defence, telling ITV1s Good Morning Britain: I think we are just picking holes here. I think people are whipping up a little mountain out of a molehill on this one, I really do.

And Ms Dorries said the former foreign secretary did not go far enough.

Any clothing a woman is forced to wear which hides both her beauty and her bruises should be banned and have no place in our liberal, progressive country, she said.

Shadow chancellor John McDonnell called for a campaign of resistance against the rise of the far-right, along the lines of the Anti-Nazi League.

Large audiences attended Rock Against Racism events in the 1970s, including the Carnival Against the Nazis festival in Londons Victoria Park (PA Archive)

Mr McDonnell lumped Mr Johnson in with Tommy Robinson and a group of vandals who stormed a left-wing bookshop as proof of the emergence of far-right forces in British society.

Ex-English Defence League leader Robinson became a cause celebre for elements of the political right around the world when he was jailed for 13 months for contempt of court after broadcasting footage on social media of people involved in a criminal trial.

He was released earlier this month after judges quashed the contempt finding, but warned he could still be returned to prison at a later hearing on the same allegations.

The Bookmarks bookshop in Bloomsbury, central London, said that around a dozen mask-wearing fascists attempted to intimidate staff and customers and to destroy books and other materials on Saturday.

Ukip suspended three party members understood to have been involved in the incident.

Mr McDonnell called for anti-racist campaigners to emulate the ANL, which was launched in response to the rise of the National Front in the 1970s and staged high-profile Rock Against Racism festivals featuring acts such as The Clash.

The shadow chancellor said: With the scale of Tommy Robinson demonstrations, the storming of Bookmarks bookshop, and now Boris Johnsons Islamophobic comments, we can no longer ignore the rise of far-right politics in our society.

Maybe its time for an Anti-Nazi League-type cultural and political campaign to resist.
Instagram removed Tommy Robinsons account from its platform in error, the social media giant has said.

The former English Defence League (EDL) leader had taken to Facebook to reveal his account had been deleted and to claim that Facebook will soon close us down on that platform as well.

However, Instagram has now confirmed it had made a mistake in removing the far-right activists profile.

The account @realtommyrobinson was removed in error and has since been reactivated, the Facebook-owned photo-sharing app said in a statement.

Instagram said Robinsons account had been reported to them for violating its community guidelines for bullying, but removing it was a mistake made during the review process.

(Joe Giddens/PA)

The company said it was always working to get better at evaluating content and enforcing its guidelines.

The incident comes a day after tech firms, including Facebook, Apple, Spotify and YouTube, removed pages and accounts linked to right-wing conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and his Infowars platform, citing breaches of site rules on hate speech.

Earlier this year, Facebook also removed the official page of far-right group Britain First, as well as those of leaders Paul Golding and Jayda Fransen in what the social network said was a response to repeated violations of its rules.

Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Christopher Yaxley-Lennon, was released from prison on conditional bail last week after judges quashed a contempt of court finding against him.

Three leading judges in London quashed the finding against Robinson made at Leeds Crown Court in May. They granted him conditional bail from a 13-month jail sentence, pending new proceedings at the Old Bailey.

Robinson could still face jail over the allegation he committed contempt of court by filming people in a criminal trial and broadcasting footage on social media.

Earlier this year, he was banned from Twitter for breaching the sites policies on hateful content.
A strong beer called Broken Dream Breakfast Stout has won a prestigious award after being described as dangerously drinkable.

The Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) named the drink as its Champion Beer of Britain.

It is brewed near Reading in Berkshire by Siren Brewery, which was founded five years ago by Darron Anley.

Broken Dream. Champion Beer of Britain. pic.twitter.com/zDKylxVk6r  Siren Craft Brew (@SirenCraftBrew) August 7, 2018

Speaking at Camras Great British Beer Festival in Londons Olympia, he revealed that the 6.5% strength beer had some interesting ingredients, including coffee, oats and milk  hence the breakfast part of its name.

Around 2.7 million pints are brewed every year, with 20% exported to 14 countries.

Its very brave of Camra to give the top award to a stout on one of the hottest days of the year, Mr Anley said.

A view of the Camra Great British Beer Festival at Olympia (Dominic Lipinksi/PA)

Judges praised the beers deep and complex blend of chocolate, coffee and a touch of smoke.

They commented that it stood out for its superb aroma, taste and finish.

Nick Boley, Camras national director said: This is a distinctive, strong, well-balanced stout from an outstanding craft brewery. If there is any beer in the world that is dangerously drinkable, its this one.

Congratulations to @SirenCraftBrew who are the new Supreme Champions! #GBBF pic.twitter.com/4gW1HmB9N6  The Great British Beer Festival at Your Local (@gbbf) August 7, 2018

Green Jack brewery based in Suffolk took second place for its barley wine Ripper (8.5% ABV), described as dangerously smooth, with well-hopped flavours.

It was named the Champion Winter Beer of Britain earlier this year.

Tim Dunford, from Green Jack Brewery, said: We really love our strong beers and used to travel to Belgium all the time when we first got into the industry. I fell in love with the style and we have gone on from there.

A visitor browses beer mats on sale (Dominic Lipinski/PA)

Bronze was taken by Tyne & Wear-based Mordue for their Workie Ticket (4.5% ABV), Judges said it was a complex and tasty bitter.

Garry Fawson, from Mordue Brewery, said: As a bitter, Workie Ticket isnt the most fashionable of beers with everything moving towards being pale, hoppy or cloudy, so were especially pleased that it has made such a comeback.
The mother of an epileptic teenager is calling for a new Billys Law in Northern Ireland.

Billy Caldwells mum Charlotte successfully led a campaign to get medicinal cannabis laws changed in the UK after her sons medicines were confiscated at Heathrow Airport on June 11.

She said while families across England, Wales and Scotland can expect to be seamlessly prescribed medicinal cannabis by specialist doctors, as announced by Home Secretary Sajid Javid, those in Northern Ireland have to apply for several licences before they can receive the life-changing medication.

Billy Caldwell, who has a rare form of epilepsy, with his mother Charlotte (Brian Lawless/PA)

Home Secretary @sajidjavid: Cases like Billy Caldwell and Alfie Dingley have shown that we need to look more closely at the use of cannabis based medicine in healthcare in the UK.  Home Office (@ukhomeoffice) June 19, 2018

Ms Caldwell said: Such decisions should be agreed by a Northern Irish assembly, but as there is currently no government in Northern Ireland, the matter cannot be a devolved decision.

But there is enormous support for what is being called Billys Law  bringing Northern Ireland medicinal cannabis policy in line with the rest of the UK.

Therefore we are assembling a cross-party group of politicians, from local councillors through to senior MPs, who, for once, are all agreeing that this should happen.

The cross-party cross-rank group of Northern Ireland politicians will gather at Stormont on Friday in a bid to push through Billys Law.

A spokesman from the Department of Health said: In the absence of an Executive, the Department in consultation with legal advisors, continues to try and find a way forward on this very complex issue.
The European Unions foreign policy chief encouraged companies to do more business with Iran despite new US sanctions.

Federica Mogherini told reporters during her trip to Wellington, New Zealand, that it is up to Europeans to decide who they want to trade with.

We are doing our best to keep Iran in the deal, to keep Iran benefiting from the economic benefits that the agreement brings to the people of Iran because we believe this is in the security interests of not only our region, but also of the world, she said.

Federica Mogherini urged European to increase trade with Tehran (AP Photo/Yong Teck Lim)

If there is one piece of international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation that is delivering, it has to be maintained.

The United States reimposed stiff economic sanctions on Iran on Monday, ratcheting up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after President Donald Trump pulled the US out of the international accord limiting Irans nuclear activities.

A pleasure to welcome @FedericaMog to #NZ today, reaffirming our strong relationship with the #EU as likeminded partners. Full PR here: https://t.co/maIvCaIRAP pic.twitter.com/AJPc154xHS  Winston Peters (@winstonpeters) August 7, 2018

Mr Trump declared that the landmark 2015 agreement was horrible, leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East. Mr Trump warned that those who dont wind down their economic ties to Iran risk severe consequences.

German car and truck maker Daimler AG said it was suspending its very limited activities in Iran.

In early 2016 the company announced plans for local truck production and co-operation with an Iranian partner but those plans had not panned out in a weak market.

A representative office will not be continued, the company said.

Iran accused the US of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by the Obama administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest.

European allies said they deeply regret the US action.

Mr Trump said: We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilising behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

Ms Mogherini, speaking at a news conference alongside New Zealand foreign minister Winston Peters, said the EU and New Zealand saw the need to maintain the nuclear deal with Iran, notwithstanding the US withdrawal, and that she and Mr Peters had discussed in detail how to keep open trade and financial channels with Iran.

We are encouraging small and medium enterprises in particular to increase business with and in Iran as part of something (that) for us is a security priority, Ms Mogherini said, explaining that trade is an integral part of the nuclear deal.

Trade between Iran and the EU is a fundamental aspect of the Iranian right to have an economic advantage in exchange for what they have done so far, which is being compliant with all their nuclear-related commitments, she said.
Two masked men are on the run after setting fire to several cars outside a prison.

Ten cars were left scorched or completely burnt out after the incident near HMP Birmingham on Tuesday.

Witnesses said one of the men pulled a handgun on prison staff who approached them after spotting suspicious activity on the site.

Burned out vehicles in the car park of HMP Birmingham Prison following reports of two masked men armed with a firearm (Richard Vernalls/PA)

An insider at the prison said two members of G4S security staff spotted the masked men in the car park, seeing one spraying a liquid on the roofs of the vehicles.

A brazen arson attack on vehicles in a prison staff car park in broad daylight, in Birmingham, today. Two masked men, 1 with a gun, cut their way through perimeter fencing with an angle grinder, doused a car in accelerant, & set a fire. They remain at large. Luckily no one hurt. pic.twitter.com/sJ1lD0dqu9  Richard Vernalls (@rvernallsPA) August 7, 2018

When the pair were challenged, one of them pulled what appeared to be a handgun on the staff, forcing them back.

The liquid was then set alight, starting a fire which spread quickly along the row of parked cars, while the masked men escaped through a gap in the metal fence surrounding the site.

It is understood that security chased after the men, and managed to get the registration number of their getaway vehicle, before passing it to police.

Nobody was injured following the blaze at around 1.30pm, West Midlands Police said.

PRISON ARSON: We've launched an investigation after 2 men broke into a staff car-park at HMP Birmingham today before setting fire to several vehicles. More: https://t.co/4rB4fUSbda pic.twitter.com/RQDV8CXX9A  West Midlands Police (@WMPolice) August 7, 2018

Detective Constable James Farrell said: Firearms officers were at the prison within minutes, but the offenders had already fled.

No-one has been injured, but prison staff were understandably alarmed by the incident.

The motive for the attack is unclear, but we are trawling CCTV to trace the car which made off from the scene.

Workers at the nearby scrapyard businesses described hearing car alarms going off and coming out to see at least half a dozen cars already well alight.

They told how armed police arrived quickly at the scene, near the prison staff training building, along with other officers in both marked and unmarked cars.

Witness Ajay Kumar, who works at a scrapyard, said he ran out when he saw smoke billowing from the scene.

He said: I saw four cars alight.

Then the police were here  they arrived very quickly.
The Prime Minister has added her voice to calls for Boris Johnson to apologise for his comments about burkas.

Former foreign secretary Mr Johnson has caused outrage with a newspaper article comparing women in the face-covering veils to bank robbers.

Conservative Party chairman Brandon Lewis ordered Mr Johnson to apologise following a hail of criticism over the remarks, which were labelled bigotry by former Tory chair Baroness Warsi.

Now, Theresa May has said she agrees with Mr Lewis, upping the pressure on Mr Johnson, who has so far refused to apologise and dismissed his critics as ridiculous.

She said: I do think that we all have to be very careful about the language and terms we use.

And some of the terms Boris used describing peoples appearance obviously have offended. So I agree with Brandon Lewis.

Whats important is do we believe people should have the right to practise their religion and, in the case of women and the burka and niqab, to choose how they dress.

I believe women should be able to choose how they dress.

But an apology would not go far enough, said Labours Naz Shah, shadow equalities minister, who accused the Prime Minister of being in denial about Islamophobia.

The Bradford West MP tweeted: Boris Johnsons comments were not just offensive, they were Islamophobic but the Prime Minister is in denial.

An apology is not enough, she needs to order an independent inquiry into Islamophobia in her party, as requested by the Muslim community, and take action against him.

A source close to Mr Johnson made clear he was not retracting his comments.

It is ridiculous that these views are being attacked  we must not fall into the trap of shutting down the debate on difficult issues, said the source.

We have to call it out. If we fail to speak up for liberal values then we are simply yielding ground to reactionaries and extremists.

Writing in the Daily Telegraph on Monday, Mr Johnson said he did not want Britain to follow European countries like Denmark which have banned the burka and niqab in public places.

But he described the burka as ridiculous and weird and said women wearing them looked like letter-boxes or bank robbers.

Mr Burt, who served under Mr Johnson until his resignation as foreign secretary last month, told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I would never have made such a comment, I think there is a degree of offence in that, absolutely right.

And Lady Warsi accused Mr Johnson of adopting the dog-whistle tactics of former Donald Trump aide Steve Bannon in the hope of attracting support from right-wing Tories for an eventual leadership bid.

Good to see colleagues condemning comments by #Boris

Thank you @BrandonLewis for asking for an apology - and I assume a disciplinary process if one is not forthcoming? https://t.co/yBBVxfkFrL  Sayeeda Warsi (@SayeedaWarsi) August 7, 2018

Repeating her call for an independent inquiry into Islamophobia in the Conservative Party, Lady Warsi told Channel 4 News: Muslim women should not be a useful political battleground for Old Etonians.

It is crass and it must stop, and it must be condemned by the leadership right from the Prime Minister down.

Mr Johnson has long campaigned for equal treatment for women in developing countries, especially the provision of education for girls.

His article stated that there was no requirement in the Koran for women to cover their faces, and attacked bullying (and) oppressive male-dominated governments which tried to force them to do so.

But in a message on Twitter, Mr Lewis said: I agree with Alistair Burt. I have asked Boris Johnson to apologise.

The Muslim Council of Britain said Mr Johnsons intentional usage of the words contained in his Daily Telegraph column appeared to be an attempt to pander to the far right.

The MCB said Tories must now deliver the independent inquiry into Islamophobia in the party which it has been demanding. And it said that any inquiry must look into Mr Johnsons previous incendiary remarks that Islam is the problem and that Islamophobia was a natural reaction.

The council also asked if Tory MP Nadine Dorries, who backed a ban on the burka, would be spoken to by the party chairman.

Mr Johnsons father, Stanley, came to his defence, telling ITV1s Good Morning Britain: I think we are just picking holes here. I think people are whipping up a little mountain out of a molehill on this one, I really do.

And Ms Dorries said the former foreign secretary did not go far enough.

Any clothing a woman is forced to wear which hides both her beauty and her bruises should be banned and have no place in our liberal, progressive country, she said.

Large audiences attended Rock Against Racism events in the 1970s, including the Carnival Against the Nazis festival in Londons Victoria Park (PA Archive)

Shadow chancellor John McDonnell called for a campaign of resistance against the rise of the far-right, along the lines of the Anti-Nazi League.
Thunderstorm warnings have been issued as the heatwave which has gripped the south east comes to an end.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather alert, warning the storms are likely to affect parts of east and southeast England from Tuesday evening into the early hours of Wednesday.

It states that frequent lightning may occur along with heavy rain  up to 20mm to 30 mm of rain in an hour  in some places, with large hail and sudden strong gusts of wind.

A few #thunderstorms are moving into southeastern England now, with more expected to arrive later on today. Stay #weatheraware   pic.twitter.com/UAdIhxyNMG  Met Office (@metoffice) August 7, 2018

The forecast has prompted Ryanair to cancel at least 14 departures and 13 arrivals at Stansted Airport.

In a statement on its website, the airline said: We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this weather disruption, which is entirely beyond our control, and we are working hard to minimise the disruption to our operations.

Due to forecast thunderstorms across the south-east, @Ryanair has taken the decision to cancel a number of its flights. Ryanair passengers are advised to check their flight status with the airline before arriving at the airport, https://t.co/X2x5lQKRBC. Thank you.  London Stansted Airport (@STN_Airport) August 7, 2018

Frank Saunders, chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: After weeks of predominantly high temperatures and very little rainfall for many parts of the country, high pressure is finally breaking down allowing a cold front to introduce cooler, fresher air from the Atlantic to all parts of the UK.

Temperatures will still often be in the low to mid-20s Celsius in eastern parts of England for the rest of this week, which although is above average for the time of year, will be notably cooler than recent weeks.

Elsewhere, temperatures in Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and western England will be closer to average, the high teens being typical.

(PA Graphics)

However, after a sweltering hot summer, the UK could see warmer-than-average temperatures in the autumn, according to the Met Office.

Its three-month outlook does not suggest the hot weather will last that long but it may be warmer than average.

The outlook  used by planners, businesses and government to start plotting weather-related decisions  shows an increased chance of high-pressure systems close to the UK, meaning settled conditions are more likely than unsettled weather from our typical Atlantic weather systems.
EgyptAir flight MS 995 from Cairo to Toronto made an emergency landing on Tuesday in Dublin, Ireland after one of the passengers suffered a health crisis, according to a statement by EgyptAir.

According to EgyptAir's chairman Ahmed Adel, flight attendants administered first aid; however, the passenger was in need of more advanced healthcare.

Upon arrival at Dublin airport, an ambulance was called and the passenger was taken off the flight for immediate treatment.

A few hours later, the plane resumed its journey to Toronto.

Adel stressed that EgyptAir gives the utmost priority to the safety of its passengers.

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Paul Manaforts long-time deputy has told jurors how he spent years disguising millions of dollars in foreign income as loans to lower the former Trump campaign chairmans tax bill.

Rick Gates, the governments star witness, recounted how he and Mr Manafort used offshore shell companies and bank accounts in Cyprus to funnel the money, all while concealing the accounts and the income from the IRS.

In Cyprus, they were documented as loans. In reality, it was basically money moving between accounts, Mr Gates said during his second day of testimony in the financial fraud trial of his former boss.

A courtroom sketch depicts former Donald Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort (Dana Verkouteren/AP)

Prosecutors summoned Mr Gates, described by witnesses as Mr Manaforts right-hand man, to give jurors the first-hand account of a co-conspirator they say helped Mr Manafort carry out an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and bank fraud scheme.

Mr Manaforts defence attorneys have sought to paint Mr Gates as an embezzler, liar and the instigator of any criminal conduct. They have several times tried to impugn his credibility before the jury.

Mr Gates walked into a packed courtroom a day after he calmly acknowledged having embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Mr Manafort and said the two had committed crimes together by stashing money in foreign bank accounts and falsifying bank loan documents.

Mr Manafort and Mr Gates were the first two people indicted in special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into potential ties between Russia and the Trump campaign.

But Mr Gates pleaded guilty months later and agreed to cooperate in Mr Muellers investigation of Mr Manafort, the only American charged by the special counsel to opt for trial instead of a guilty plea.

Mr Gates, who said he has met with the government 20 times ahead of his testimony, is expected to face a bruising cross-examination later as defence lawyers try to undercut his credibility and pin the blame on him.
A 31-year-old man has been charged with the murder of drill rapper Sidique Kamara, also known as Moscow17 rapper Incognito.

Kenneth Umezie from Camberwell, south London, will appear in custody at Bromley Magistrates Court on Wednesday, Scotland Yard said.

Mr Kamara, 23, was stabbed to death in Warham Street, Camberwell, on the evening of August 1.

Sidique Kamara died after being stabbed in Camberwell, south London (Metropolitan Police/PA)

Three other teenagers, aged 16, 18 and 19, who were arrested in connection with the incident have been released under investigation.

Another member of the Moscow17 collective, 17-year-old Rhyhiem Ainsworth Barton, was found fatally shot on the same street in May.

The groups tracks have had hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube and include lyrics hostile to long-running rivals Zone 2, from Peckham.

Earlier this year, Mr Kamara and another member of Moscow17 were cleared at the Old Bailey of murdering teenager Abdirahman Mohamed, a brother of a member of Zone 2.

This weekend, confectionery giant Mars pulled its advertising from YouTube after one of its brands was shown alongside drill rap videos linked to violent crime in the capital.
By Abhinav Ramnarayan

LONDON, Aug 6 (Reuters) - Italian two-year borrowing costs dropped below one percent on Monday as investors hunted for yield, though some of the bullishness was tempered by government officials' comments that renewed fears about their commitment to fiscal discipline.

Last week's announcement by Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on a 2019 budget framework brought bond investors flocking back to Italy, the only short-dated euro zone securities offering relatively high yields.

Conte said on Friday the government had fixed the 2019 framework, soothing nerves over tensions within the Italian government and over the future of pro-European Economy Minister Giovanni Tria.

That fuelled a fall in yields across the curve, with two-year yields ending Monday around 0.99 percent, having ballooned out to as much as 1.36 percent before Friday's budget meeting. Yields fell as low as 0.93 percent at one point .

Moves in longer five- and 10-year maturities were more muted, however, with yields ending roughly unchanged and reversing some of their earlier declines.

Some of the earlier optimism was tempered by Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio, who said fiscal rules would be applied only if they did not hamper the government's reform agenda.

Di Maio's comments threw into doubt the ruling coalition's commitment to the European Union's 3 percent public deficit limit.

BBVA rates strategist Jaime Costero Denche described the headlines as not "helpful".

"Especially the comments that fiscal discipline is not the priority of the programme," he said. "I feel (the rally) is short term relief, because the market continues to be exposed to fiscal risks. We cannot claim victory."

Many investors have little choice but to buy Italian two-year debt despite risks, ING rates strategist Martin van Vliet said, noting that some of his clients such as pension funds were under pressure to outperform government bond indices.

"After May, the Italian two-year has become very attractive in terms of yield and many real money accounts who would find it difficult to explain to clients that they are buying longer-dated Italian debt are buying this instead," van Vliet said.

On May 29, Italian two-year debt had its biggest daily jump in over 25 years on worries the country might quit the euro zone and default on its debt.

In contrast to Italian two-year yields at 0.99 percent, Spanish two-year debt yields minus 0.30 percent and the German equivalent is at minus 0.60 percent. .

Italian shares closed flat on the day, but shares in the country's third-largest lender Banco BPM fell 7.6 percent after it said earnings missed forecasts due to higher than expected loan loss provisions.

The closely-watched 10-year spread over Germany was at 252 basis points (bps) at the market close, roughly in the middle of the wide 210-285 bps trading range since the end of May.

Euro zone bond yields overall dropped sharply towards the end of last week, not only on Italian politics, but also due to global trade tensions and the effect they may have on the euro zone economy.

Latest data showed German industrial orders fell more than expected in June, posting the steepest monthly drop in nearly a year and a half. That suggests factories in Europe's largest economy could shift into a lower gear in the coming months.

German 10-year yields dipped to a near one-week low of 0.39 percent, 10 bps below last week's high.

(Reporting by Abhinav Ramnarayan and Virginia Furness; Graphic by Sujata Rao; Editing by Mark Potter)
By Aaron Maasho

ADDIS ABABA, Aug 6 (Reuters) - Security forces in Ethiopia's eastern Somali region shot four people dead on Monday who were protesting the looting of their shops and homes during unrest triggered by the deployment of soldiers at the weekend, a witness said.

Witnesses said federal troops deployed in the province's capital Jijiga on Friday and one journalist said they wanted to arrest regional officials.

But their presence sparked violence in several towns and crowds looted and burned property and shops owned by ethnic minorities in Jijiga.

The attacks forced thousands to seek refuge in an Ethiopian Orthodox church since Friday, residents told Reuters. On Monday, some of them staged a protest.

"They blocked a road surrounding the church to demonstrate, before security forces arrived and began firing indiscriminately," said an employee for an international organization who lives in the town told Reuters.

The employee, who declined to be named, said he saw four bodies on the ground after the crowd was dispersed, and that gunfire rung out throughout the day.

At least two Ethiopian Orthodox churches were also burned down over the weekend, witnesses told Reuters.

It was not immediately clear why central authorities deployed troops. Residents said some soldiers were deployed outside the offices of regional officials in an attempt to arrest them.

Government officials in Addis Ababa and Jijiga were not reachable for comment.

On Saturday, Ethiopia's defence ministry confirmed the deployment of soldiers.

"The violence has not been halted despite attempts by defence forces and other security forces to restore calm," the ministry said in a statement.

"Hence, as the region's peace and security has come under threat, our defence forces will not remain silent in the face of unrest and chaos and will take necessary measures in accordance with constitutional obligations," the statement said.

The Somali region has seen sporadic violence for three decades. The government has fought the rebel Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) since 1984 after the group launched a bid for secession of the province, also known as Ogaden.

Since 2017, clashes along its border with Oromiya province have displaced tens of thousands of people.

In July, the region's officials were accused by the government in Addis Ababa of perpetrating rights abuses. Last month, authorities fired senior prison officials there over allegations of torture. (Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg)
OTTAWA, Aug 6 (Reuters) - Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland, referring to a decision by Saudi Arabia to expel Canada's ambassador, on Monday said her government would always defend human rights.

"Let me be very clear ... Canada will always stand up for human rights in Canada and around the world, and women's rights are human rights," Freeland told a conference in Vancouver.

Saudi Arabia acted after Ottawa urged it to free arrested civil society activists, including a prominent female campaigner. (Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
By Clyde Russell

LAUNCESTON, Australia, Aug 7 (Reuters) - U.S. crude oil producers appear to have found an alternative buyer for cargoes no longer heading to China, with India on track to import record volumes in August.

India has booked a total of 9.94 million barrels of crude, about 319,000 barrels per day (bpd), to arrive from the United States this month, according to vessel-tracking and port data compiled by Thomson Reuters Oil Research and Forecasts.

This would be almost triple the 119,000 bpd India imported from the United States in July, and well above the 190,000 bpd for November last year, the previous record for a month.

The August total is also likely to be just above the 9.65 million barrels imported over the first seven months, showing the scale of acceleration in India's imports of U.S. crude.

Indian refiners' interest in U.S. crude will be welcome news to shale producers looking for buyers outside of China, which is likely to scale back imports as the trade dispute between the administration of President Donald Trump and Beijing escalates.

Although not imposed as yet, China has proposed import taxes of up to 25 percent on U.S. crude, as well as on liquefied natural gas and coal.

While U.S. crude exports to China appear to have held up in August, with about 342,000 bpd expected to arrive, they seem set for a slump in September.

So far, about 203,000 bpd of U.S. crude have been booked for arrival in China next month, according to vessel-tracking data, and the window for more cargoes to be added is closing, given it takes at least three weeks for a tanker to make the journey from the Gulf of Mexico to China's east coast.

For U.S. crude exporters, India is a market ripe for expansion, given the voyage from the Gulf of Mexico to India's west coast takes about three weeks, much the same as it does to China's east coast.

This means shipping costs are more or less in line with sending cargoes to China.

INDIA'S BUMPER IRAN IMPORTS TO FADE?

Indian refiners may also be seeking alternative suppliers as they may be compelled to cut purchases from Iran. Iranian oil exports are under a cloud because of renewed sanctions as part of the Trump administration's withdrawal from the international agreement aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear programme.

It must be especially galling for Tehran's leaders that they stand to lose market share in India to the United States.

However, there is no sign yet that India is cutting back on imports from Iran, with a record 768,000 bpd arriving in July, according to preliminary tanker data.

It's likely, though, that the 29 percent surge in imports from June was a result of Indian refiners buying as much as they could before they have to cut back as the renewed sanctions come into force.

Still, Indian refiners are believed to be encountering difficulties in insuring cargoes from Iran, and Tehran is offering to insure vessels itself, as well as providing generous payment and freight terms.

Whether this will allow Iran to keep exporting to India remains to be seen, but Tehran will be especially keen to keep its relationship with its second-biggest customer after China.

The expected paring of India's imports from Iran after this month and the increase in purchases from the United States also raise questions about the politics of oil.

India is the world's third-largest crude importer, and if it cuts its purchases from Iran, another likely major beneficiary besides the United States is Tehran's regional rival and Trump ally Saudi Arabia.

India imported about 970,000 bpd from Saudi Arabia in July, according to the vessel-tracking data, a figure that is considerably higher than the average of 787,100 bpd for the first six months of 2018.

While it's likely that Saudi Arabia is keen to limit Iran's influence in the Middle East, it appears the kingdom could also be in for a double-whammy benefit of increasing its exports to fill the gap left by Iran and selling at higher prices, assuming the market tightens on the loss of Iranian barrels.

(Editing by Tom Hogue)
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 7 (Reuters) - Malaysia's anti-graft agency has asked former Prime Minister Najib Razak to appear at its office on Tuesday, the Star daily said, quoting unnamed agency sources.

Najib was asked to appear at the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) at 5 p.m. (0900 GMT), it added.

Reuters could not immediately reach an agency spokesman to seek comment. Najib's spokesman did not immediately respond to queries. (Reporting by Rozanna Latiff and Joseph Sipalan; Writing by Praveen Menon; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
The Supreme Court has determined that certain sections of the Reparations Bill is inconsistent with the Constitution, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya informed Parliament today.

He said sections 27(a) and 27 (A) (iii) of the Bill was inconsistent with Sections 4(D) and Section 3 of the Constitution and therefore the SC has stated that the Bill has to be approved by a two-thirds majority of the total number of members in the Parliament. The SC has also recommended that Bill should be approved by the people at a referendum and that the inconsistency could be removed if amendments were made in line with the directions it had given.

Reparations Bill provides provisions to set up an office to look into disappearances and pay compensation to the relatives who had gone missing especially during the war.

Blurb -- Sections 27(a) and 27 (A) (iii) of the Bill was inconsistent with Sections 4(D) and Section 3 of the Constitution. (Yohan Perera and Ajith Siriwardana)
Donald Trump has thrown down the gauntlet, warning that any businesses trading with Iran would not be allowed to trade with the US.

Hailing the re-introduction of sanctions against the state, the US President tweeted: "These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level. Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States."

He added: "I am asking for world peace, nothing less!"

His comments come just a day after the European Union said it was implementing a blocking statute to shield companies "doing legitimate business" within the country against the impact of US sanctions coming into force as a result of Trump's decision to withdraw from the multilateral Iran nuclear deal.

The blocking statute will allow EU companies to recover damages resulting from US sanctions and ban them from complying with sanctions unless they get special dispensation from the European Commission.

Under the deal Iran agreed to drastically scale back its nuclear programme in return for relief from sanctions introduced by the international community over fears it was developing nuclear weapons.

But Trump has repeatedly slammed it as a bad deal for the US. Yesterday he claimed his new approach was "based on a clear-eyed assessment of the Iranian dictatorship, its sponsorship of terrorism, and its continuing aggression in the Middle East and all around the world". (cityam)
Asia Securities (Pvt) Ltd. announced the appointment of Avancka Herat as Head of Wealth Management, effective August 1, 2018. He will also assume the role of Chief Executive Officer of the firms Wealth Management affiliate. Asia Securities (Pvt) Ltd. announced the appointment of Avancka Herat as Head of Wealth Management, effective August 1, 2018. He will also assume the role of Chief Executive Officer of the firms Wealth Management affiliate.

An industry veteran of 24 years, Mr. Herat joins the firm from National Asset Management Ltd. (NAMAL) where he served as Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer. NAMAL is a leading provider of unit trusts and individual portfolio management services across equity and fixed income instruments. Previously, Mr. Herat was the Chief Investment Officer of Aegis Fund Management, which was Sri Lankas largest private asset management company with assets under management (AUM) of LKR 93bn (USD 600mn). Early in his career, Mr. Herat gained international experience at oil industry leader Caltex (in Singapore and Sri Lanka) and the investment house Jardine Fleming (in Hong Kong and Sri Lanka) in research and investment-related roles.

In establishing Asia Securities Wealth Management business, Mr. Herat will be joined by Kanishka Perera (formerly Head of Asia Securities award-winning Research platform) who assumes the role of Chief Investment Officer, Wealth Management.

Dumith Fernando, Chairman of Asia Securities remarked, In Avancka we have an outstanding partner to drive the addition of cross-asset class Wealth Management solutions to our client offering. Driven by client demand we have launched Investment Banking serving corporates and, now,Wealth Management serving High Net-worth Individuals, families and Institutions. He added that Avancka, being one of the countrys best in this business, can propel our Wealth Management offering to meet the needs of the most sophisticated clients.

Mr. Herat said I am excited to join the Asia Securities team to establish the Wealth Management business. The company has had the right focus on integrity, quality of advice and trusted relationships, backed by the most internationally-experienced team in the business. This will help us develop a unique client offering. He emphasized that Independence and fiduciary responsibility to clients will be a mainstay of our business model. We will exercise high compliance standards which will separate the business from other affiliate business-lines, and on the principle of open-architecture - working closely with several carefully selected financial product providers.

Asia Securities was recognized internationally as Sri Lankas Best Stock Broker at the recent Country Awards for Achievement 2018 hosted by FinanceAsia, the leading Asian finance journal. The firm was also named the Best Stockbroking Research Team in Sri Lanka for a second year in a row at the CFA Capital Markets Awards in June 2017. In addition, the firms Investment Banking business received international recognition with the Best Sri Lanka Deal award at the Achievement Awards 2017, also hosted by FinanceAsia.
Military Production minister Mohamed el Assar discussed on Tuesday with visiting Nigerian Minister of Defense Mansur Mohammed Dan means of boosting joint cooperation.

The meeting was held on the sidelines of a visit by the Nigerian minister and his accompanying delegation to the factory of armored vehicles production and maintenance, an affiliate to the military production ministry.

Assar confirmed Egypt's keenness to promote joint cooperation in the domain of manufacture.

He reviewed the potentials and know-how of the companies affiliated to his ministry.

For his part, the visiting minister voiced admiration over the advanced technology of the military production factories in Egypt.

This advanced technology encourages setting up joint ventures and exchanging of know-how, he added.

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DPA, 06th AUGUST, 2018- Bangladesh authorities should relocate Rohingya refugees from crowded mega-camps at risk of diseases and landslides during monsoon season, Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged Monday.



Some 700,000 minority Rohingya Muslims fled a brutal Myanmar crackdown in August 2017, joining 200,000 who had fled previous waves of violence to create the worlds largest refugee camp in Bangladeshs Coxs Bazar.



With no prospect of return to Myanmar in the short term, Bangladesh should move refugees to smaller camps on safer ground with less risk of flooding and landslides and with more space to prevent communicable diseases, fires, community tensions and domestic and sexual violence, according to the report released Monday. Bangladesh should register fleeing Rohingya as refugees, ensure adequate health care and education and let them pursue livelihoods outside the camp, said HRWs refugee rights director Bill Frelick, while praising Bangladesh for hosting the refugees.



Myanmar and Bangladesh in November last year signed a deal to facilitate Rohingya returns.

Bangladeshi authorities insist the camps are temporary and that Rohingya must return to Myanmar, which has prevented the construction of permanent, cyclone-proof structures.
The minority shareholders of Ceylon & Foreign Trades Plc have filed a case at the Commercial High Court of Colombo for oppression and mismanagement of the company affairs by Director-Executive Chairman Ali Asger Shabbir Gulamhusein in concert with Director Malayandi Jeyapragash, Auditor A.I. Macan Marker and Co. Charted Accountants and secretarial company Adam Corporate Secretarial Ltd. which is owned and controlled by Ali Gulamhusein.

Dr. Shabbir Abbas Gulamhusein was the Executive Chairman of the company Ceylon and Foreign Trades Plc until his sudden demise on 9 June 2017. He was a renowned businessman who had built and owned numerous business enterprises in Sri Lanka. Among other businesses, he had acquired shares of CFT and gradually gained control of the company in the late 1980s. The company has been listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange as a Public Listed Company since 1 January 1979. The company diversified its operations to include spice and desiccated coconut exports and with its continuous success became an asset-rich organisation by acquiring a number of very valuable lands and assets.

The petitioners, who include the eldest son and two daughters of the late Dr. Gulamhusein, claim that after his death, his youngest son Ali deceitfully obtained control of the company and is mismanaging it in collusion with the other respondents mentioned in the case.

The petitioners alleged that Ali has alienated the assets of the company at massive losses and some of those funds have been used to secure the loans obtained by him in a personal capacity. It has also been claimed by the petitioners that Ali has caused the company to mortgage the premises bearing assessment No. 258 and No. 260 Grandpass Road, Colombo 12 and premises bearing assessment No. 414/18, K. Cyril C. Perera Mawatha, Colombo 13 owned by the company to LOLC for a sum of Rs. 500,000,000 on 28 September 2017. However, the company has not received any financial or other facility from LOLC to offer such land and premises as security.

It has been further claimed that Ali has caused the premises bearing No. 260, Grandpas Road, Colombo 12 to be sold to LOLC for a sum of Rs. 1,537,200,000 at a loss of Rs. 362,800,000 compared to the book value stated in the Annual Accounts of 31 March 2016.

Furthermore, it has been claimed that Ali has caused the company to sell the premises bearing assessment No. 414/18, K. Cyril C. Perera Mawatha, Colombo 13 to LOLC on 13 November 2017 for a sum of Rs. 444,750,000 at a loss of Rs. 205,250,000.

It has also been alleged by the petitioners that on or around 25 September 2017, Ali had sold 4,032,755 shares held by the company in Onally Holdings Plc, with a net value of Rs. 390,000,000 at a rate of Rs. 43 per share.

The proceeds of the sale totals a sum of Rs.173,408,465, thereby causing a loss of Rs. 216,591,535. The aforesaid sales are estimated to have caused the company a total loss of Rs. 784,641,535 on the book value as at 31 March 2016.

The petitioners have also claimed that under Alis management the company had failed to comply with the critical listing rules of the Colombo Stock Exchange including non-compliance of minimum public holding and non-compliance of corporate governance requirements set out in rule 710 of the CSE listing rules.

It has also been claimed by the petitioners that due to the mismanagement of the affairs of the company, the company has failed to service its facilities obtained from banks and finance institutions.

Further, it is alleged that the company is in violation of the Companies Act as it did not hold its Annual General Meeting within the six months after the balance sheet date of the company or within the 15-month period after the previous general meeting.

The Annual General Meeting of the company for the financial year ended 31 March 2017 was held on 1 June 2018, 14 months after the date of the balance sheet and 19 months after the previous general meeting.

In the current circumstances, the petitioners in the case have, among other things, requested a full investigative audit of the affairs of the company and interim orders against the respondents to safeguard the company. Notices have been served on the respondents and the case has been fixed for hearing today.
Woman Superintendent of Police Madhara Ariyaratne today commanded the guard of honour to Law and Order Minister Ranjith Madduma Bandara at an event held in Ragama Police Station today. This is the first time in the history of Sri Lankan Police where a woman SP commanded a guard of honour to a VIP. Pix by Nimalsiri Edirisinghe
Investors should be given the ability to quickly and reliably secure their rights under the law in Sri Lanka



Despite some laws in those Acts meeting the twenty first century requirements, these Acts are out of date and they caused delays in court proceedings



If property rights are protected, people undertake to do socially productive productions such as innovations



Sri Lanka had an opportunity to become the best place for an International Arbitration Centre in the region, where commercial disputes between Companies or individuals in different States are resolved effectively by providing a reliable legal platform as an alternative disputes resolution.

We could have easily capitalised our geographical location to setup an Independent Arbitration Centre meeting international standards. It could have attracted local and foreign investors, traders and businessmen to utilise the Arbitration Centre and visit Sri Lanka when they have commercial disputes that need to be resolved.

While we failed, Singapore and Malaysia grabbed this opportunity with both hands and setup Arbitration Centres known as Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) and Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC) with great effectiveness. For the moment, Singapore is growing rapidly to become the leader in Arbitration.

Sri Lanka on the other hand, is still struggling even to make important amendments to several outdated sections of the Arbitration Act (1996), which regulates local commercial disputes.





Establishing an effective and reliable system of commercial litigation is an important factor in enabling the Sri Lankan economy achieve higher income category





It was a wasted opportunity that could have been used to boost up our economy in various dimensions in a novel way. Innovation is the engine of future economy, although it is unlikely to be welcomed at the execution level of policy planning of this island.

According to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, we had a debt burden of Rs. 10.269 trillion by the end of 2017. Even though the question of how we face this challenge is somewhat confusing and complex; policy makers have no choice other than to discover proper plans for future economic situations in order to enable the Sri Lankan economy achieve at least some comfort.

Socialists might have a different view on the matter. They may contemplate a whole systematic transformation of the economy, which is perceivable, but it might not be pragmatic from the context of a contemporary world.

The necessity for setting up a platform, allowing the think-tanks of this island or elsewhere to discover solutions to this conundrum is therefore critically important. Such an interesting idea was shared during the recently concluded Lawbiz Symposium organised by the Colombo Law Society. Supreme Court Justice and Presidents Counsel Prasanna Jayawardena, who delivered the keynote address at the Lawbiz Symposium, is regarded as an expert in the field of commercial litigation before he was appointed to the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka as a judge.

Many might think that the application of the laws in a society would directly impact its economy. Great care must be taken in grasping such a statement. Following is the crux of Jayawardenas speech.

Attracting investors through an effective and reliable system of commercial litigation



Sri Lanka is still struggling to make important amendments to several outdated sections of the Arbitration Act

He considers Sri Lanka as an emerging market economy. At the onset, Justice Jayawardena elaborated on what an emerging market economy is and how Sri Lanka could be regarded as an emerging economy despite the size of its economy, in which the Gross Domestic Production (GDP) is only around US $ 87.2 billion.

The term emerging economy is actually used to describe countries, which have effective banking systems, liquid equity markets, regulatory mechanisms, unified and coverable currency and other components of a developed economy, but have not yet achieved the debt of security, reliability, stability efficiency and strength.

We have a very reliable banking system with advanced telecommunication and technology facilities, intelligence, literate and tech savvy work force, small, but effective liquid equity market, improving regulatory mechanism and also Sri Lankas immense potential to be a regional hub thanks to our unique geographical location, as firstly the centre of the Indian ocean, secondly as a ceiling to the east west trade and thirdly as the gateway to South-Asia, he said.

Justice Jayawardenas observation is that with these factors we should still be regarded as an emerging economy despite the nation being small in size.





Economy and the system of commercial litigation

Establishing an effective and reliable system of commercial litigation is an important factor in enabling the Sri Lankan economy achieve higher income category said Justice Jayawardena. The questions arise as to what exactly commercial litigation means, why it is so much important and whether the current system is adequate?

Justice Jayawardena elaborated that a system of Commercial Litigation is meant as litigation arising out of disputes between parties in contractual terms, disputes over rights in companies, disputes over intellectual property rights, disputes over banking transactions, and various sort of disputes arise in the field of commerce and business. He said especially the court process and applications of laws in resolving those disputes are regarded as litigation.





What rights are at stake when there is commercial litigation?

Identifying those rights is necessary for us to accurately assess the importance of establishing an effective and reliable system of commercial litigation cautiously said he. The rights at stake in most commercial litigation are private property rights.

Law as an awL : To pierce the just-ice

As it was needless to say that private property rights are critically important to investors and entrepreneurs who are contemplating investing in Sri Lanka, Justice Jayawardena was of the view that such investors and entrepreneurs will do investing only if they have the confidence that their private property rights, investments and trading means will be safe and secure in Sri Lanka.

He underscored that investors should be given the ability to quickly and reliably secure their rights under the law in Sri Lanka in the event their property rights and investments in Sri Lanka are disputed or threatened or taken away.

Therefore, Justice Jayawardena stated that these laws and courts (commercial litigation) are crucially important to investors and traders who wish to invest in Sri Lanka. As of today, establishing effective commercial litigation is a vital factor in Sri Lankan economy for new investors, entrepreneurs and traders because attracting more foreign direct investments to Sri Lanka and encouraging foreigners to invest in here are essential for Sri Lanka in order to enable the path towards growing to become a high income country

According to CBSL, total Government debt in 2017 is about Rs. 10.313 trillion which is an increase of Rs. 9.9 trillion from 2016.

Justice Jayawardena said that the total Government debt at end of 2017 -- 77.6% of the GDP, is an improvement from ratio of 78.8% from the end of 2016.

As we can see these worrying statics show the need to attract more investments to the economy and therefore the need to attract more foreign investments. It is critically important to have effective and reliable commercial litigation system for Sri Lanka to attract more investments and trade.

So improvement of the efficacy of commercial litigation in a country promotes and encourages investments and trade and protects them from expropriation risks

Protecting property rights of investors through effective litigation

There were many great scholars including Montesquieu and Adam Smith who went onto establish the importance of having a strong system of law for property rights for many reasons. According to Justice Jayawardenas point of view those reasons can be as follows.

Lack of effective commercial litigation regarding the economy may result in reluctance of investors to come here as there is no protection for property rights.



A corrupt legal system will not quickly enable contracts in the event of a default, so the borrowers will be reluctant to offer their assets as collateral in an unsafe legal system where lenders could take those assets even where there is no default and will discourage trading in the economy because there is a difficulty to recover.



If property rights are protected, people undertake to do socially productive productions such as scientific innovations which keep the existence of human being on this planet.



Institutions and regulators are necessary to promote capital market and the growth of the economy.



High cost to defending contractual and property rights in an ineffective system of commercial litigation will have high expenses for legal advice and court processes and a large amount of productive time is spent over litigation.



Expropriation in a volatile system of commercial litigation will cause investors being reluctant to invest in a country where laws, subject to the litigation, are seen as those subject to the change due to political factors.

So improvement of the efficacy of commercial litigation in a country promotes and encourages investments and trade and protects them from expropriation risks Justice Jayawardena explained.

It was said that, countries with less investor protection, measured by the character of their laws and courts and procedures, are smaller and narrower markets, which have less access to external finance.

According to Justice Jayawardena, countries with well protected property rights, promote firms reinvest their profits and promote better allocation of their resources, which enables to move faster, hence advancing the overall economic growth.

He further explained that using the reforms made to the Pakistan legal system in 2002 at a cost of US $ 350 million, which was then equivalent to 0.1% GDP of Pakistan economy had a dramatic effect on increasing confidence in courts including judicial efficiency.

These reforms soon transferred interestingly to tangible positive economic results in Pakistan increasing GDP by 0.5%, which is five times higher than the budgeted amount.

According to Justice Jayawardena, countries with well protected property rights, promote firms and to reinvest their profits

Application of commercial litigation

System of commercial litigation in Sri Lanka comprises laws, regulations and courts system. Our legal system has the common law, Roman Dutch law, English law, and statutes of various laws passed by the parliament.

Justice Jayawardena simplified further that Roman Dutch law applies to mortgages, guarantees, suretiships, etc., while English law applies mostly to the other areas of commercial laws such as shipping trade company laws, partnerships, banking, principles of merchants, lands, and life insurances and so on.

In addition to that, there are specific statutes which cover specific areas of the commercial law such as Companies Act, Intellectual Property Act, Sale of Goods Ordinance, Insolvency Act, and Arbitration Act and so on.

Justice Jayawardena stated that several enactments in this field of law are much older as Sales of Goods Ordinance enacted in 1896, Bill of Exchange Act enacted in 1937 and the Mortgage Act enacted in 1949.

He also said that the procedural process of court of law which set out in the Code of Civil Procedure (1889), and the Evidence Ordinance (1895), which governs the production of evidence in court, had been amended often considering the modern requirements.

Despite some laws in those Acts meeting the twenty first century requirements, these Acts are out of date and they caused delays in court proceedings. Such one example is Insolvency Ordinance 1853 which has very little effect in todays economic environment, said the Justice.

As of today, establishing effective commercial litigation is a vital factor in Sri Lankan economy for new investors, entrepreneurs and traders because attracting more foreign direct investments to Sri Lanka and encouraging foreigners to invest in here are essential for Sri Lanka

Outdated Court system handling commercial litigation

In 1990s, the Commercial High Courts were established in Colombo to entertain and decide cases with regard to commercial disputes. Now there are three commercial high courts in Colombo, which hear cases where the dispute is over five million and arises within Western Province. All other disputes below five million are heard in District Courts. And disputes outside the Western Province over five million are decided in District Courts.

Justice Jayawardena observed that even though, these three Commercial High Courts function efficiently ,where the average time for a case to be resolved is around two years or less, what is more important is whether the potential investors who wish to invest in Sri Lanka see our legal system as effective

He further explained about a report which is taken as measurement of attractiveness regarding a country where investment and trading are considered. That is the Ease of Doing Business Report, which is published annually by the World Bank.

The 2018 report ranks Sri Lanka in 111th position among 190 countries, while Vietnam is at the 68th, India is at the 100, Thailand at the 26th, Malaysia at the 24th and Singapore at the 2nd. Below us are The Philippines is at the 113th with Pakistan at 147th and Bangladesh at 177th.

This report also includes a measurement as to how the Enforcing of Contractual rights lasts effectively in a system of commercial litigation in a country. Interestingly, Sri Lanka ranks 165th in the enforcing contracts classification among 190 countries.

The report further states, that court proceedings in Sri Lanka take a very long time, about 1300 days (3 1/2 years) to standardise disputes to be resolved.

Whether one likes it or not, the global perception on the commercial litigation in Sri Lanka, is not sufficient, said Justice Jayawardena.

What needs to be done

Even though, it requires great attention and care as to what needs to be done, Justice Jayawardena suggested some pragmatic approaches that could be adopted for a better change.

Speed up the time taken to initiate an action, and then to have it determined by a court. This will require a careful study of the problems that we may face. And that study has to be accompanied by a study of comparable jurisdictions, which have achieved a reduction in court time. This is one of the higher priorities that our legal system has to consider.

Need, start taking steps regarding digitalization and automation of court procedure. It allows cases to be filed electronically through a secured platform, resulting case management system to be established to keep tracking of progresses of cases.

Several procedural laws have to be amended to prevent unnecessary delays in pre-trial stages.

He also said that a Court should consider more on the substance of a matter rather than on the formalities.

Bringing more clarity on jurisdictional provisions of the law by taking necessary steps to amend of unnecessary technical rules.

For the importance of increasing resources for judicial training, judges should be given the knowledge on commercial matters to quickly resolve disputes and they should be trained to use technology in proceedings to speed up the proceedings.

Ensuring the importance of being corrupt-free by taking actions immediately and imposing punishments against the corrupted Government servants.

Finally to improve mediation and alternative disputes resolution methods.

In conclusion, Justice Prasanna Jayawardena invited the Law Commission of Sri Lanka and Legal Draftsman Department and other relevant authorities, which are examining these issues, to give a great care and initiate necessary actions without further delay.

(The writer can be reached at shehandailymirror@gmail.com)
Govt should have invited Lord Nasbey soon after he spoke in support of SL



Greatest meritorious act is to topple Govt now



We need to build a local support base for him



It is possible if proper strategies are applied

Ven. Bengamuwe Nalaka Thera, a leading Buddhist monk associated with the nationalist movement, shares his views on the current political developments in the country in an interview with Daily Mirror

Q You are a leading member of the Buddhist clergy who voiced against the government right from its formation. How do you see the current status of politics?

We are not content with the political situation. I am not referring to the governments politics only. We cannot be happy about politics being done by the opposition either.

Q Why do you say so?

There is an urgent thing to be done. It is the agitation for elections. The main struggle should be aimed at toppling this government somehow. I do not see any concerted effort being made in that direction. In my view, the most meritorious act to be done is to unseat this government. Buddhists are the majority in this country. Yet, all believe in meritorious acts.





This Government will do anything to stay in power. Other political forces in the country insist elections as means to get into power again. Both the government and the opposition are driven by the craze for power

Q Yet, it is only possible by securing a majority in Parliament. How could it be done?

It has to be planned strategically. We do not divulge strategies in advance.

Q Do you believe it is possible?

If the proper strategies are applied, it is possible.

Q Why do you consider toppling the government as the topmost priority of the opposition at this juncture?

Three years have elapsed after the government was formed in 2015. There is no development in the country taking place. It is difficult for people to eke out their living under the current circumstances. We, as members of the Buddhist clergy, live off meals or alms offered by people. So, we can sense their economic difficulties. The government is held responsible for this economic plight of the people.

There are signs of terrorism raising its ugly head again in the north. Politicians like Vijayakala Maheswaran, C.V. Wigneswaran, M.A. Sumanthiran and R. Sampanthan boost Tamil separatism by making various statements. Their separatist agenda is becoming obvious by the day. This government is held responsible again for it.

Q How do you support your argument that terrorism is rising today?

When the intelligence apparatus is crippled, underground preparations for terrorist activities cannot be traced in advance. Recently, a cache of weapons was seized, while being transported in a three-wheeler in the north. If the intelligence services were operational in full, it could have been detected at the initial stage of its planning. We need not wait till it is transported in a vehicle. That is the advantage of having an intelligence service. Intelligence officers who worked diligently in the past have been penalized now on various charges by the government.

Q As a Buddhist monk, you travelled internationally and lobbied against the UNHRC resolution on Sri Lanka. How do you assess the results you got in this case?

Sri Lanka is always under surveillance by so-called human rights activists because there is a subservient government. In 2009, a section of the international community wanted former President Mahinda Rajapaksa to stop the war on terror. Nevertheless, he did not give up despite pressure being exerted from international corners. We need to act with a backbone. We should not be servile to any power bloc or nation.

Q The United States moved out of the UNHRC. How do you see it?

The United States did so primarily because the UNHRC did not endorse the activities of Israel. We cannot justify the US action on that premise. Yet, the UNHRC becomes a weak body in the absence of the US. So, these human rights lobbyists may not have the same strength to pounce upon the countries.

From that perspective, it is an advantage for us that the US is no longer there with the UNHRC. Otherwise, we cannot condone the US action taken purely in the interests of Israel. If the US did it in protest over the UNHRC double standards towards the countries like ours, we could welcome it. After the US pulled out, then US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Atul Keshap said the UNHRC resolution on Sri Lanka would prevail.

Q Ambassador Keshap, in a meeting with the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leaders, insisted that Sri Lanka should work out a new Constitution. What is your view?

It amounts to meddling with our internal affairs. How can the US dictate terms in that manner? Sri Lanka is not part of the United States. We should respond in the way the President of the Philippines did to such interference once. The Philippines is a small country like ours. Yet, its leader has a backbone whereas ours dont.

Today, crimes are on the rise. We see a surge in underworld criminal activities. But the IGP is meditating. The Police should not do meditation in the face of criminal activities. When I say this, I would be criticized. One would question as to how I could oppose to meditation being a Buddhist monk.

What I meant is different. There is a specific task assigned to the Police. Meditation is not something assigned to the Police. The Police should fulfil its duty. If the Police discharges its lawful duty, the underworld will not thrive. Terrorist activities will cease in the north, then. This Government will do anything to stay in power.

Other political forces in the country insist elections as means to get into power again. Both the government and the opposition are driven by the craze for power. We are only asking them to place the country before self

Gotabaya is the best candidate in the greater interests of the country. Lawyers say there are no provable charges against him. The government may be able to take him to remand custody. But, they cannot punish him legally

Q What do you think of the next Presidential Elections?

I have a feeling that the UNP-led forces would field President Maithripala Sirisena as the common candidate again. They might field another flanker candidate to engineer a split in the Sinhala Buddhist vote base. We have learnt it from reliable sources. Then, it will be a challenge to a candidate like Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The political forces, supportive of him, are yet to contemplate strategies.

In our view, Gotabaya is the best candidate in the greater interests of the country. Lawyers say there are no proven charges against him. The government may be able to take him to remand custody. But, they cannot punish him legally because there are no legitimate charges. It is difficult for the Police to take action against him under the current circumstances.

If he is nominated as the presidential candidate as soon as possible, it will be advantageous. If the government opts to arrest him, it would then amount to the incarceration of a nominee for the Presidential Election. If he is remanded, he can contest from being behind the bars. Time is ripe for the Joint Opposition to nominate him as the Presidential candidate.

Q Yet, there is an objection to his candidacy according to reports...

Within the Rajapaksa family, there are no splits. I know it for a fact. All will agree to what Mahinda Rajapaksa says. Only he has the experience to do it.

Lawyers say there are no proven charges against him. The government may be able to take him to remand custody. But, they cannot punish him legally because there are no legitimate charges

Q After the defeat of Mahinda Rajapaksa at the elections in 2015, an organization led by you undertook a task to bring him back. How do you look at it in retrospect?

We initiated the struggle. The Joint Opposition took it over from us and proceeded. At the local level, we carried out our campaign, though. Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) won the Local Government polls in February, this year as a direct result of the campaign we initiated. That is the success of that campaign we spearheaded. It is making further gains now.

Q You met with Lord Baron Naseby, a member of the British House of Lords, who spoke for Sri Lanka countering allegations of war crimes. How was that meeting?

The Pro-LTTE Tamil Diaspora groups are all powerful in Geneva. It is a long story. The successive Sri Lankan governments, since 1977, maintained stoic silence in the face of the LTTEs international propaganda.

So, Tamil separatist forces are more powerful than us in this sphere today. They have funding from multiple sources. MP Vijayakala Maheswaran might get a lot of funding because of her statement calling for the revival of the LTTE in recent times. It is a virtual appeal to the Tamil Diaspora asking for funding. Unfortunately, our State intelligence do not get information to this effect today.

Lord Naseby is supportive of us. However, he asked us to build a support base within Sri Lanka for his stand. He said he could ensure further support only when the support base grows in strength here.Without a support base for him in Sri Lanka, it is difficult for him to be a lone voice. The government should have invited him to Sri Lanka soon after he spoke in support of us countering allegations of war crimes. Then, his opinion becomes our opinion. It would deliver a clear message to the international community. Unfortunately, the government holds a different view. The governments position favours the pro-LTTE diaspora.

If he is nominated as the presidential candidate as soon as possible, it will be advantageous. If the government opts to arrest him, it will then amount to the incarceration of a nominee for the Presidential Election

Q Now, some Sinhala organizations such as Global Sri Lanka Forum carry out propaganda to counter the Tamil Diaspora. How successful it is?

It is continuing.

Q What is your view on the Constitution-Making process?

It is tottering. Let alone, the government has not abandoned it. We continue to protest against the government.
Dhishna Bastiansz-Head of Operations at the Sustainable Future Group

Sri Lankas leading environmental certification organization The Sustainable Future Groupnamed its new Head of Operations recently. Dhishna Bastiansz brings an admirable track record of achievement in market research, marketing and advertising communications fields. With approximately 10 years of Account Management experience in international adverting agencies, DDB,O&M and JWT, she joined local firm Q&E as its Director Account Management, before moving on to the position of General Manager of Quantum Strategic Services, a leading player in the local market research industry. After a brief stint with The Nielson Company, she spent over 6 years as Head, Qualitative Research Business for Lanka Market Research Bureau. Prior to taking on her role at The Sustainable Future Group - she was the Director Research & Strategic Planning at Bates Strategic Alliance.

Commenting on the new appointment, FarisFausz - Executive Director of SFG said Dhishna brings a wealth of industrial and marketing experience with her, which will no doubt help SFG to work closely with our industrial and corporate clients and to better focus and shape our service offering, so that we can remain relevant and viable, but while retaining our core proposition of trust and integrity in the work we do. The certification and brand marks that have been developed and offered by SFG are founded on the principles of mitigating environmental impact and are structured to mirror the most globally accepted protocols in each instance. We have worked to better understand the complexities at hand faced by local business and are on a continual journey to better the countrys environmental situation through active engagement with the private sector. With synergies now being achieved between national ideological and political views, the private sector will have an increasingly important role to play in facilitating the countrys transition toward a more environmentally friendly nation. We see SFG as having a strong role to play in ensuring the transparency, accuracy and integrity of the environmental claims made by industry and I believe Dhishnas appointment will give added impetus toward the achievement of our shared vision.

The Sustainable Future Group (SFG) was created to provide the missing link for private sector organizations in the Asia Pacific region with a verification, validation & assurance body that exists to enlighten, engage and empower organizations by ensuring that sustainability is placed at the forefront of their businesses.

SFG was one of the first in the region to be awarded ISO 14064 accreditation from the International Accreditation Forum (IAF)  the global governing body for accreditation of inspection, verification, testing and certification companies, through its local representative, the Sri Lanka Accreditation Board (SLAB). This enables SFG to provide verification and certification services for ISO 14064 - 1 & 2: Principles and Requirements at Organization and Project Levels for Quantification and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions and Removals.
Our sister paper Sunday Times had carried an interesting news item in its July 29 issue about a record set by the Northern Provincial Council (NPC). The story said that the NPC had adopted 415 different resolutions during its five-year tenure that would end in two months, in October. The story further says that this works out to nearly seven resolutions a day on which sittings were held.

It is obvious that no other Provincial Council in the country has been so active in passing resolutions as the NPC has been. Sometimes it is doubtful whether any council has adopted so many resolutions from the day it was first instituted in 1988, consequent to the Indo-Lanka Accord.

One in the southern part of the country might be interested to know what actually these resolutions were and even some racially thinking person in the south might be envy of the Tamils of the Northern Province presuming that the north might have achieved a higher level of economic development within five years than what the other provinces have for the last 30 years.

Nevertheless, the Sunday Times had also revealed that the resolutions adopted by the NPC were issues that do not come within the purview of the NPC. It cited NPC resolutions to convert the Palali Airport to an international airport and the one to place issues arising from the military defeat of the LTTE before the International Criminal Court in the Hague, as examples.

We also can recall some other similar resolutions adopted by the NPC forgetting its duty towards its people who had borne the brunt of the thirty-year-long war. For instance, four months into its election the NPC headed by its Chief Minister C.V.Wigneswaran, who is also a respected former Supreme Court Judge, passed a resolution in February 2014 calling for an international probe into the alleged violations of Human Rights and international humanitarian law during the last lap of the war. The story in the Sunday Times points out how the NPC wasted its precious time on trivial and sometimes unnecessary resolutions.

One such resolution urged all institutions coming under it to display in their offices the portrait of Chief Minister Wigneswaran, while another which had been rejected by the council Chairman C.V.K. Sivagnanam sought to impose a ban on lighting crackers during funeral processions. It must be recalled that the NPC was instituted for the first time in September 2013, following international pressure on the Mahinda Rajapaksa Government to hold the elections for the council. Even the UNHRC resolution adopted in March that year called the Government to hold the election for the NPC. And also it has to be recollected that the Provincial Councils were initially meant for the Northern and the Eastern Provinces with a view to finding a lasting solution to the ethnic problem.

The J.R. Jayewardene Government created Provincial Councils in 1987 in the other seven provinces as well in order to minimize the opposition by the Sinhalese towards devolution of power to the Tamil dominated two provinces. Yet, it was the Provincial Councils in the Northern and the Eastern Provinces that had always been in turmoil until 2008 and the situation continued in the north even after that.

The NPC has now become a political forum rather than an administrative body that should look into the economic woes of the people, who are struggling to come out of destructions caused to their families and the society as a whole by the war. Besides the fighting with the Central Government over various issues, now the council was embroiled in a tussle over a Ministerial Post, which has already gone to the Supreme Court.

In a recent interview with the Daily Mirror Governor of the Northern Province, Reginald Cooray had pointed out how the NPC had over-politicised in such a manner, that it was more interested in political issues rather than the burning problems of the people.

Two months from now the NPC stands to be dissolved as its tenure expires in October. And the Government after the passage of the Provincial Councils Elections Amendment Act in a controversial manner last year created a mess in holding elections to the Provincial Councils. Hence, the NPC would come under the Governor after October.

It is time for the Northern people to take stock of the provincial administration before going for the next provincial election.
Parliament was in a state of chaos today when the joint opposition asked Speaker Karu Jayasuriya to give a ruling on the request it had made to appoint one of their members as the leader of the opposition.

Heated arguments were heard when JO parliamentary group leader and MP Dinesh Gunawardane asked whether the Speaker would give a ruling on this matter.

We made a written request to appoint a new opposition leader from the JO and you promised to give a ruling on it today. We like to know your decision with regard to this matter, the MP said. He said the JO was eligible to hold the opposition leaders post because it had the support of 70 members in the House. "We have nothing against the incumbent Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan but our point is that this post is traditionally given to the group which has most number of seats in the Opposition, the MP said.

JO MP Dallas Alahapperuma recalled that MP Anura Bandaranaike was appointed as the Acting Leader of Opposition followinga request by a majority of members in the Opposition despite Mr. K.B. Ratnayake being named by the then Opposition Leader to the post when she was going abroad in 1993. He said Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva was named Opposition Leader in January 2015 despite some UPFA MPs accepting ministerial posts in the 100-day government.

Opposition MP Susil Prenajantha said the Speakers decision to call for the opinion of UPFA general secretary was not a proper thing to do. He said the party in the opposition which has the most number of seats should hold the opposition leaders post.

JO MP Vasudeva Nanaykkara said the Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU) had called for an explanation from the Speaker on not having appointed a JO member to this post.

JVP MP Bimal Ratnayake said all UPFA members who are holding ministerial posts should resign and sit in the Opposition if a new opposition leader is to be appointed from another group. The HO members are ones who contested from the UPFA and if an opposition leader is to be appointed from that group the UPFA members who hold ministerial posts should resign and sit in the opposition, he said. TNA MP M.S. Sumanthiran also expressed similar views.

Minister Harin Fernando said the issue was nothing but rift within the UPFA. He said the matter with regard to leader of opposition would be settled if the rift in the UPFA is solved.

UNP MP Thushara Indunil said all back bench MPs of his party had decided to crossover to the opposition and claim the opposition leaders post if a member in the joint opposition group is appointed to this post.(Yohan Perera and Ajith Siriwardana)
President Maithripala Sirisena is reported to have turned down a Cabinet paper submitted by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe seeking office and staff facilities for MPs assigned to oversee the implementation of the governments Gam Peraliya programme.

The recommendation has been made by a committee comprising officials including the Secretary to the Prime Minister and the Finance Ministry.

The Prime Minister submitted the Cabinet paper on behalf of the committee. The committee had recommended that each MP assigned to monitor the programme implementation was provided with a separate office and a staff of seven.

The government had earlier decided to assign the MPs who do not hold ministerial posts for this purpose.

The President had reportedly rejected the Cabinet paper saying it was unnecessary and also turned down a Cabinet paper put forward by Development Strategies and International Trade Minister Malik Samarawickrama seeking to allow ministers to retain private lawyers at government expense in fundamental rights cases filed against them.

The President said they could retain lawyers only from the Attorney Generals Department. (Kelum Bandara)
When a political organisation loses contact with its origin, it declines and risks implosion.

~ Roberto Esposito

Some writers whose political insensitivities and bare naivete have been mistaken for objective analysis are still defending the indefensible atrocities of the Rajapaksa era. Their insensitivities have taken them from being mere Rajapaksa supporters to the fringe politics of post-Independent Sri Lanka. Ceylon, as it was called then, has undergone unrecognizable changes; she has embraced nihilist aspects of political evolution; ethnic violence has erupted multiple times and led to a thirty-year long war that ended in the decimation of a terrorist army that was never seen before in Ceylon in the last half of the millennium. That war has enlarged the gulf between the two parties. Tamils are being perceived as the enemy of the glorious past of Sinhalese Buddhists, as enunciated in the Great Chronicle (Mahawansa).

The peak of this evolutionary thought, as promulgated by the modern day patriots of the land, the race and the faith, spearheaded by an insane but utterly focused movement led by saffron-garbed political gangsters, was in the Rajapaksa era: from 2005 to 2014. During this maddeningly-chaotic period, these pundits and Chinthanaya demagogues would most conveniently forget to write about or even make a cursory mention on the alleged exchange of huge amounts of cash between the candidate Rajapaksa and Prabhakaran, leader of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE). Prabhakaran got the cash and Mahinda Rajapaksa got the Tamils in the North to stay at their homes on the D-day, presidential election day, thereby preventing an assured bloc of votes for Ranil Wickremesinghe, the UNP candidate who would have been sufficient to overwhelm the votes received by Mahinda in 2005.





18 A to our already sullied Constitution not only assured the Rajapaksas a mirage of permanent power, it also carried a latent message to the hereunto placid population and civil organisations a weapon to use





Yet, those who bartered the countrys conscience for cash then clothed themselves with a glorious-looking attire of patriotism, while those soldiers of the ilk of General Sarath Fonseka were disgraced as traitors. This grave injustice caused to the sublime emotions of a nation struggling to rise from the ashes of a terrorist war is unpardonable. Desecration of mans strongly-held belief in himself and his family was accepted by the henchmen and women of the ruling cabal as a patriotic act for the wild emotions raised and inflamed by empty rhetoric and resounding slogans overtook the wiser senses of man. The decay that followed in our cultural values and social measures began to show their external manifestations, not gradually but rather rapidly and uncontrollably.

At the base of all these processes of rotting away and social oozing was a politician. Politician controlled not only the countrys coffers; he controlled the hearts and minds of the general population; thereby they controlled the mindset of a great number of people, in fact a majority of Sinhalese Buddhists. The so-called pundits and pseudo intellectuals of the Chinthanaya-trash were at the very core of this repugnant movement. Construction of beautiful slogans that would easily mesmerize the gullible and plainly vacant minds of a majority which has already been hoodwinked by wickedly-attired thugs misrepresenting the Order of Maha Sangha, the clergy of Buddhist preaching, gave way for insightful thinking and wise decision-making.

Sharpening the television portraits to misrepresent the vile and inscrutably-dangerous political philosophy, which was already bordering on Nazism and Stalinism, became a priority of highest order for those who occupied the uppermost seats of power. The resultant mindset of the Rajapaksa cabal that became more and more hallucinated and intoxicated with power produced the most undemocratic constitutional amendment thus far. The 18th Amendment to our already sullied Constitution not only assured the Rajapaksas a mirage of permanent power, it also carried a latent message to the hereunto placid population and civil organisations a weapon to use and use repeatedly to prove that the path the Rajapaksas have chosen is not good for the country. In other words, 18A carried within itself a double-edged knife, one edge for the Rajapaksas to continue their supremacy forever and the other as an eye-opener for the docile public that the intentions of the cabal are not so voter-friendly.

In order to bury the ugly Sri Lankan that dwelled within the Rajapaksa ruling cabal and their numerous castrations of human rights, decent life and honest livelihoods of the average man and woman, holding on to power was a prerequisite. This same argument was made in 1988 when J.R. Jayewardene, the very creator of the Presidential Constitution and then its government, was getting ready to hand over the reins of power to the next one who would be elected. At that time, J.R. Jayewardene had a two-thirds majority in Parliament. The passage of an amendment on lines of the 18th Amendment would have been reasonably easy. Yet, JR decided otherwise. Wiser minds prevailed.





When the siblings started tasting the sweetness of power, when they began reaping the harvests of hardworking men and women, the alluring enigma of power took control of these siblings



When the siblings started tasting the sweetness of power, when they began reaping the harvests of hardworking men and women in Sri Lanka, the alluring enigma of power took control of these siblings. They let themselves go. And the subject people suffered. The daylight murder of Lasantha Wickrematunge, assault on other journalists, killing of Tamil journalists in Jaffna, intimidation and abduction of Prageeth Ekneligoda, Rathupaswala shooting and obliteration of those who took part in the infamous prison riots were all direct and unmistakable results of the mindset that controlled the country after the passage of 18A.

The Presidential elections held in 2015 changed all that, hopefully forever. Revocation of 18A and replacing it with the 19th Amendment, in combination with many a legal and judicial investigation into the misdeeds of the former first family gave them jitters. The provision of proportional representation (PR system) has ensured that it is practically impossible for any single party to gain a two-thirds majority in Parliament. One party might be able to command a two-thirds majority after ensuring the support of some other fringe parties to form a temporary two-thirds for a specific purpose, but such temporary collusions are hardly worthy of mention in the context of a bitterly fought out election campaign which would result in a hung-Parliament. Consequently, seeing Mahinda Rajapaksa again on the throne of presidency is a non-event.

This series of events and their developments have resulted in a wild and misguided hunt for the seat of power in 2020. The former Defence Secretary, a sibling of Mahinda who was falsely named as the architect of the war victory in 2009, seems to be engaged in a furious campaign for 2020 Presidential elections. Claims of the then Defence Secretary as the architect of the war victory is a tremendous disservice and insult to some of the best military minds and brave soldiers who paid the ultimate price for the nations sake. Launching a campaign on a totally false and obnoxious base is not going to be successful. That campaigns main star will be defined in terms of these untruths and falsifications.

In the midst of all this, the other brother who was supposed to be in charge of the countrys economy is said to be pretty angry that a person who ran away from the country when the worst part of the war against the Tamil militants was on is being portrayed as the next Presidential candidate. On top of that, it is also rumored that the former first lady too is vehemently opposed to the former Defence Secretary as their family-candidate. Mahinda has an impending implosion in his midst. In the grand mosaic of political development, each piece seems to be in the wrong place making the mosaic look more like a jigsaw puzzle rather than an artistic creation.

Mahinda Rajapaksa has a choice. He also has an obligation to unite the forces that displaced him from power in 2015. He has lost control and leadership of his original political party, Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). Yet, an overwhelming majority, close to 90% of that party, is now with him under a new name, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP). However, erosion of even 5% of votes from the SLPP would mean certain defeat at a Presidential election, because an overwhelming minority vote consisting of Tamils and Muslims is still against the Rajapaksas. The implosion is coming.



The writer can be contacted at vishwamithra1984@gmail.com
Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry met on Tuesday in Washington with officials from the US Chamber of Commerce to discuss future American investments in Egypt, according to a statement by the Egyptian foreign ministry.

Shoukry left on Monday morning for a two-day visit to Washington to discuss boosting cooperation with US officials.

Shoukry took part in a meeting organised by the US Chamber of Commerce in the presence of managers and officials from major American companies that are already investing or wish to invest in Egypt, including Apache, Exxon Mobil, Honeywell Metlife, Cargill, and Lockheed Martin, according to FM spokesman Ahmed Abu Zeid.

Shoukry discussed during the meeting Egypt's economic reform programme, which aims to improve the economy and make it more attractive to foreign investors. He also discussed boosting the trade exchange between the two countries, inviting businessmen to invest in Egypt.

"Strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States requires strengthening cooperation between the two sides in various sectors of the economy, not only in the areas of energy and oil," Shoukry said.

The FM also discussed Egypt's new investment law, which creates a favourable environment for businessmen to invest in Egypt.

Shoukry said that the Egyptian government is giving priority to health and education in order to improve its manpower, which has led to a decrease in unemployment and an increase in Egypt's growth rate.

The minister also discussed the national projects currently being implemented by the Egyptian government. He highlighted the new administrative capital as well as infrastructure projects in the transport sector, pointing out that the Suez Canal axis project is one of several major endeavours that will transform Egypt into a regional and international centre for trade and industry.

Shoukry called on businessmen to establish a US economic zone in the Suez Canal axis industrial zone.

He also stressed that Egypt aims to be a regional centre for energy, following the discovery of large reserves in Egyptian territorial waters in the Mediterranean.

The representatives from the US private sector and members of the chamber praised the economic reforms achieved in Egypt through a number of national mega projects that are considered a major attraction for foreign investment.

Shoukry also discussed all aspects of Egyptian-American relations, pointing out that they are "of a strategic nature and represent the cornerstone of stability and peace in the region."

The FM also discussed the latest developments in the field of combating terrorism.

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Party leaders of the United Peoples Freedom Alliance (UPFA) unanimously decided yesterday that the Opposition Leader's post in Parliament should be further held by R. Sampanthan.

According to political sources, the parliamentarians of the Joint Opposition are a group who contested for the election under United Peoples Freedom Alliance. Despite the fact that the UPFA acts as government supporters, a member of UPFA should not be given the post of opposition, as decided by the UPFA.

This decision has been taken by the UPFA party leaders at a meeting held under the patronage of the President yesterday.

Meanwhile, UPFA General secretary Mahinda Amaraweera said he had sent the party's official decision to the Speaker. The Speaker's office also acknowledged receipt of the letter. (Nalaka Sanjeewa Dahanayaka)
An attempt to smuggle 8 kilos of Diazepam tablets, which is popularly abused as a substitute for narcotics was thwarted when Customs officials at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) Air Cargo Unit detected a suspicious parcel today.

Customs Spokesman and Director Sunil Jayaratne told Daily Mirror, the parcel was delivered by an employee of a leading international courier service and the detection was made when the

officials decided to carry a random check on the parcel the contents of which was declared as pharmaceuticals.

The parcel contained more than 100,000 Diazepam tablets weighing eight kilos addressed to a recipient in Britain.

According to medical experts Diazepam, also marketed as Valium, belongs to the benzodiazepine family that typically produces a calming effect. It is commonly used to treat a range of conditions including anxiety, alcohol withdrawal syndrome, benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome, muscle spasms, seizures, sleeplessness and restless legs syndrome.

It is only dispensed on a doctors prescription and is known to be a drug that is usually abused as a substitute by addicts of psychedelic narcotic drugs.

The National Dangerous Drugs Control Board said Diazepam was also known as a widely used medicinal drug used by heroin addicts as a substitute.

The 39-year-old courier company employee who is a resident of Wellawatte and the drugs were handed over to the Police Narcotic Bureau for further investigations.

The detection was made by Customs Air Cargo Unit Assistant Superintendent Sumudu Jayawardena while the investigations are being carried out by Superintendents Lal Silva, Shantha Priya and ASC Thisara Weerasinghe, K.K.M. Saleem and H.A.P.N. Gunawardena. (Kurulu Koojana Kariyakarawana)
SriLankan airlines has obtained three treasury bonds amounting to Rs.46 billion in 2012, 2013 and 2014 to help the cash-strapped national carrier, the airlines' company secretary, Dalrene Thirikumar yesterday told the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) inquiring into irregularities at the SriLankan airlines, SriLankan Catering and Mihin Lanka.

She told the PCoI that the requirement of funds for operation purposes was submitted to the Treasury from 2009.

When asked how the Emirates (Pvt) Limited shares belonging to SriLankan were purchased by the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) in 2010, the PCoI was informed that there was no Cabinet approval to transfer the shares to EPF. It was also revealed that the Monetary Board had not authorized any such purchases by the EPF.

Ms. Thirikumar said board minutes had not specifically mentioned the transfer of shares to the Bank of Ceylon (BoC) but the documents were tabled at a board meeting.

It was earlier revealed that two Cabinet memorandums in 2010 mentioned that 43.63% of shares owned by Emirates (Pvt) Limited were to be transferred only to Bank of Ceylon or Sri Lanka Insurance but a SriLankan airlines board minute stated that these shares had been transferred to the EPF and two states banks.

Ms. Thirikumar also informed the PCoI that there were no documents pertaining to the transfer of shares to the EPF or the two State banks.

Blurb -- The PCoI was informed that there was no Cabinet approval to transfer the shares to EPF. It was also revealed that the Monetary Board had not authorized any such purchases by the EPF (Yoshitha Perera)
An underworld figure, Hewathanthrige Sisira Kumara alias 'Podi Wije' was arrested with a sword in his possession by the Organized Crimes Prevention Unit of the STF on Monday at Kolonnawa in Wellampitiya, Police said.

They said the suspect, who is an accomplice of Kudu Lal Chuti Putha of Kolonnawa, had been allegedly involved in heroin smuggling and demanding ransom from people.(Darshana Sanjeewa)
The highly anticipated Sunquick Drink and Win promotion concluded yet another successful campaign with 100 lucky customers walking away with brand new Sisil double-door refrigerators. The prize giving ceremony was held recently at the Grand Oriental Hotel, Colombo 01, attended by the winners and officials representing C. W. Mackies Sunquick and Scan Products divisions.

With the duel intention of celebrating the dawn of another year with their customers as well as rewarding their loyalty, the Drink & Win promotion was conducted from the 18th January to the 18thof March.

In order to enter the draw, consumers had to post the plastic seal on the lid of the Sunquick bottle with their name, address and telephone number to PO Box 161, Colombo. The promotion will continue annually with greater prizes.

Branded as a family friendly drink, Sunquick provides the natural taste of fruits without the contamination of artificial flavours and colouring. A Danish brand, it is consumed by millions in over 100 countries around the world.

Sunquick is locally distributed by the Scan Products Division of C. W. Mackie PLC, and is the category leader in the squash and cordial market with more than 67% market share. It has been and continues to be the most preferred fruit juice brand among the Sri Lankan consumers.

Scan Products strives to ensure that high quality standards are met through its state-of-the-art testing equipment in the laboratories and skilled and experienced staff. The bottling plant of Sunquick Lanka is suituated in Horana where every single bottle is subjected to internal and international quality standard tests before it leaves the plant to be enjoyed by consumers. First and foremost consideration for the customer is paramount in all products marketed by C. W. Mackie.


The annual historic Bellanvila Esela Perahera (Pageant), the 68th in the series, began parading the streets in July. This year the greatest strength behind this much looked forward to event is the fact that its dedicated to Ven Prof. Bellanvila WimalarathanaThera. The monk was subject to an untimely death, and his absence in Buddhist activities is considered a great loss. All activities throughout the pageant will be carried out in memory of the late priest.





The late Ven. Prof. Wimalarathana Thera

Its a well-known fact that the concept of this pageant was the brainchild of the late Ven. Bellanwila Somarathana Thera. This majestic street pageant has come a long way, thanks to the guidance all the organisers received from Ven. Dr. Bellanvila Wimalarathana Thero. The monk was the Chief Sanghanayaka of Singapore and the Viharadhipathi (chief monk) of Bellanvila Temple.

Ven. Dhammarathana Thero is committed to continue this esteemed religious festival with the support of the other priests and members of the pageants organizing committee.

Ven. Prof. Bellanvila Wimalarathana Thera was the chief architect of this pageant. It was started as a ceremony to bless the people and their cattle during times of famine and epidemics in the Bellanvila area. However, the pageant has gradually grown into a religious and cultural festival. This year its Organizing Committee will pay special tribute to the Late Thera so as to appreciate his years of service to the country and the people.

This ceremony includes three days of religious sermons (Dhamma Desana) which draw devotees to the historic Bellanwila temple. Invoking of blessings starts with a week-long Pirith (chanting). This is followed by the Deva-dootha Perahera, Dorakada Asna, Kumbal Perahera, Mal Perahera, Paawada Perahera, Ransivili Perahera, Diya Kapana Perehera and Deva Daanaya along with many other ceremonies.

In this consumerist society, it is no secret that people have to deal with lifes challenges on a regular basis. A temple is a place that gives such people much relief. One such place is the Bellanvila Rajamaha Viharaya, which over the years, has given the people the confidence to face lifes challenges through spiritual upliftment.

In addition to that, the Bellanvila Temple provides many services to the community throughout the year.





Dhamma Education

There are two Dhamma schools which function in English and Sinhala mediums respectively. In addition to offering support to school children, who study Buddhism in both languages, it also enhances their knowledge of English. The Sri Somarathana Memorial Programme also provides scholarships to school children from low income families. This is a huge relief to parents who struggle to find the means to pay for school materials.





Skill building

The Temple provides technical and industrial training to youth which includes lathe work and welding. This training along with skills in English and the knowledge of the Japanese language are offered free of charge to young people in the area.

The Vocational Training Centre has been in existence for over 30 years. The number of students who enroll at the Centre post Ordinary Level exams has increased over the years. The Centre continues to offer these opportunities and those who have enrolled are reaping the benefits of all this training.





Housing construction

The Temple also builds cost effective houses for the less affluent, annually. This is considered an incredible service and a support to those from low income families in the area.





Health

The entire income from the car park goes into the health programme. These monies are especially used to provide financial assistance to patients who undergo surgery. Approximately 50,000 rupees is provided every month to many people. The temple offers these services without seeking publicity.

The Temple also conducts health clinics where Government doctors offer their services voluntarily. Lab tests are also done and this is an invaluable service to low income families. Especially, the cost of diagnostic tests are extremely expensive and this clinic eases that burden. Going to a Government hospital at 5 a.m is difficult; especially for ailing and ageing patients. Hence this service is greatly appreciated, as it is a reach-out programme for the needy.

In addition to this, vision tests are also done and spectacles are donated during eye clinics.





Assisting other temples

Every year the Nayaka Thero selects a temple in a faraway place and supports it in many ways. Starting with an almsgiving, essential utensils are provided to these temples. Robes are offered to the monks while books are also provided to the children visiting the temple. Individual assistance is also provided to priests.





Providing flood assistance

During the recent floods, the temple was instrumental in collecting dry rations for those affected. The temple authorities then distributed these aid items in collaboration with the Government. While many groups and media institutions sought publicity during this calamity, this temple offered its services in silence in offering food to landslide victims.





Pageant

Coming back to our main topic this month, it should be acknowledged that the pageant is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and colourful of its kind to be held in the country. The representatives of the Pageants Committee also provide opportunities to students of traditional dance to display their skills. The dance segment importantly includes dance forms of various parts in the country. In this aspect there is no discrimination to anybody. Hence the organisers include up country dance, dancing forms from the low country and Sabaragamu. The Perahera in Bellanwila is unique in providing opportunities for men, women and children, who wish to take part in the pageant. The authorities dont allow women to take part in these pageants.

This is one event which goes beyond commercial norms; other such pageants enjoy exclusive sponsorships. Even traditional business rivals come together to sponsor the Bellanvila Esela Pageant. Although there have been many changes in society, the religious and cultural features of the pageant have been protected and passed to the next generation.

Not only Buddhists, but Hindus, Christians and those belonging to the Islamic faith have offered support for this pageant. This has been done with the motive of bringing everyone together. The pageant gives an opportunity to vendors to make significant profits through sales. Pineapple, achchaaru and gram sellers can earn during the pageant what they usually make during the entire month. All this was the vision and concepts of the Late Thera. His absence is seriously felt during this period. His knowledge of many things and healthy attitude-to help people-always bubbled to the surface during past festivals. Hence the people of the area were ever so grateful to him.

The pageant will be telecast live on television. There are plans to make details of the pageant available on the world wide web for the benefit of international viewers. With the members of the pageants committee hoping to promote this even with the Tourist Board from next year, more foreigners are expected to visit the Temple to witness the pageant in the future. The Pageant concludes on August 12.

(The writer is the Secretary of the Organizing Committee of the Bellanwila Esala Perahera)
Security forces temporarily blocked the entrance to Nigeria's parliament on Tuesday, preventing lawmakers and others from entering for up to an hour, witnesses said.

Witnesses said armed men wearing the black uniform of the Department of State Security stood at the gates of the building, where they were later joined by police officers.

A Reuters witness said security agents, some of whom were masked, then allowed lawmakers to enter but continued to bar government agents and journalists.

A senior aide to Senate President Bukola Saraki was among a number of people who tweeted pictures and video from outside the National Assembly building. One showed the arrival of police outside the building and another showed a man, described as a senator, talking to a man flanked by an armed man.

A Nigeria Police Force spokesman could not immediately be reached for comment.

Saraki, whose Senate role makes him Nigeria's third most senior politician, is among a group of lawmakers who have quit President Muhammadu Buhari's ruling party over the last few weeks and joined the main opposition.

The defections precede presidential and legislative elections early next year.

Buhari plans to seek a second term in the February 2019 presidential vote but the loss of influential figures and divisions within his party could cost him support from powerful patronage networks and among voters.

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Ethiopia's government has signed an agreement to end hostilities with the Oromo Liberation Front, which it had previously declared a terrorist movement, state television reported on Tuesday.

The deal appeared another step in a drive by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to improve security and diplomatic relations, reform institutions and open parts of the state-controlled economy.

Since the 1970s, the rebels have fought a low-level insurgency for self-determination for the Oromiya region, which is Ethiopia's largest and home to the Oromo ethnic group.

The OLF was initially part of a transitional government set up in 1991 by rebels from the EPRDF coalition who had driven Mengistu Haile Mariam from power, but they soon fell out with the coalition.

On Tuesday, the government signed a reconciliation agreement to end hostilities with the OLF's exiled leader Dawud Ibsa, who lives in exile in Asmara, the capital of neighbouring Eritrea, said Eritrea's Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel.

"The agreement further states that ... the OLF will conduct its political activities in Ethiopia through peaceful means," he said on Twitter. The deal was signed in Asmara.

The group declared a unilateral ceasefire last month after parliament removed it from a list of banned terrorist groups that it had been part of since 2008.

Abiy took office in April and his reforms have included extending an olive branch to dissidents overseas.

He has also acknowledged abuses by security services and ended a military stalemate with Eritrea that followed a 1998-2000 border war in which 80,000 people are thought to have died.

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The cover of "Toward the Sun" Courtesy

Tasha Donahues novel Toward the Sun is unequivocally a romance.

Yet, the Del Mar-area authors book could just as easily land on shelves earmarked for military and action adventure themes.

The work does not slide easily into the commercial markets obsession with comparatively short works geared toward niche audiences.

Publishing representatives, Donahue said, wanted a book for women or a book for men, and I didnt want to take the book apart.

For that reason, rather than slice up her story to meet publishers whims, she chose to do what many writers do these days. She self-published it: all 430-plus pages.

Using an Amazon program, CreateSpace, Donahue made Toward the Sun available on the website earlier this year. The paperback can be located on amazon.com.

Toward the Sun picks up on the life of main character Kathleen Burke when a bus the 20-year-old is riding to Seville, Spain, breaks down on the Atlantic coast town of Rota, near a U.S. Navy base.

She wanders into a bar that is a Navy Seal hangout and quickly becomes the life of the party. She attracts the attention of a group of Seals, whom she calls the Boston Four because of their ties to the northeastern city.

She is drawn to Mike McDaniels. An unfortunate circumstance, one of several Kathleen will undergo, leads her to remain in Rota under McDaniels care, leading to their romantic involvement. Early on, the reader learns Burke is trying to get over the loss of her mother in an accident, an incident the daughter blames on herself.

The McDaniels character, Donahue said, sparked from a chance meeting she had with a Navy Seal named Mike in the early 1970s when she was in Malaga, Spain.

Though she was on a date with someone else and the contact was just in passing, she was intrigued.

You wouldnt leave a date, but Ill never forget that guy, she said. His name was Mike and hes Mike in the book. Ive always wondered what would have happened if I would have stayed.

A Chicago native, Donahue has self-published two previous books, a romance titled Meet Me Under the Eiffel Tower, and More Than Words Can Express. The latter is based on Donahues experiences guiding her son through a life-threatening diagnosis, fraternal estrangement, school bullying and several brain surgeries.

Her venture into writing began in composing articles about food and wine, followed later by childrens literature.

I was writing out of the pure joy of writing, Donahue said. There was no conscious intention of growing that career. I was a stay-at-home mom.

Yet, her passion for prose blossomed: Like most writers, you always want to write a book..

In cultivating the background for Toward the Sun, Donahues contact with Seals was reinforced when she lived in Coronado, where the vaunted, but sometimes controversial special force trains.

Her knowledge and experiences enabled her to incorporate that understanding of the Seal culture and their missions into Toward the Sun.

She also traveled to various locales to study the storys various settings. She stresses, however, the books episodes are fiction, though some are based on actual incidents.

I didnt want to just write a love story, she said. I wanted to write a love story with a historical background, and thats why I did my research.

The story is told through an omniscient narrator, though Kathleen remains the principal character. Aside from occasional descriptions of settings, most of the narrative germinates from the thoughts, observations, reactions and dialogue of the characters.

Donahue advances the story with clear, crisp prose devoid of flowery ornamentation. The dialogue strives to capture the colloquial banter between Navy pals, and in male and female friendships and partnerships.

What I have in my book, which most men (oriented books) dont have is personal relationships, Donahue said. Im working from the perspective of a young, unprepared woman suffering from a loss.

Most of all, Donahue said, she aspired to paint a word picture of the Seal culture and lifestyle, their camaraderie and hardships, and the difficulties that their families  and especially women and mothers  endure.
On Monday night, July 30, distinguished Judge H. Lee Sarokin hosted a reading for his latest hot-button-issue play at North Coast Repertory Theatre.

The Protester, a one-act play about a family dealing with deportation and free speech issues, ran a brisk 58 minutes so that the 89-year-old Sarokin could preside over his favorite part of the evening: a discussion with the audience on the thorny legal issues in the play.

All but a handful of the Solana Beach theaters 181 seats were filled for the performance. Afterward, enthusiastic audience members didnt hold back in expressing their legal opinions or their right to humbly change their minds after the playwright weighed in with his own thoughts.

I hope theres a lot of agony out there, Sarokin joked with the crowd, admitting that he intentionally writes plays with strong arguments on both sides so audience members must consider how their personal feelings affect their views on the law.

The Protester is the ninth Sarokin play that North Coast Rep has presented in its New Works series over the past eight years. He took up playwriting after he and his wife of 48 years, Margie, moved to La Jolla after his 1996 retirement from a long and illustrious career as a civil rights champion.

Sarokin spent 25 years as a trial lawyer, then served on the U.S. District Court in New Jersey from 1979 to 1994. Before retiring, he spent nearly two years on the U.S. Court of Appeals.

As a judge, he wrote more than 2,000 legal opinions and made many landmark decisions, including forcing tobacco companies to reveal secret research and ordering service clubs like Kiwanis to admit women.

But the decision hes most famous for was in November 1985, when he freed former middleweight boxer Rubin Hurricane Carter from prison after serving 19 years for a triple-murder he did not commit. It was dramatized in the 1999 film The Hurricane and the two men remained close friends until Carters death in 2014.

Although Sarokin wasnt trained in playwriting, he is a lifetime theater buff and he said serving as a trial judge was good preparation, since trials unfold like a play and always have a surprise ending.

All nine of his plays are based on topical issues that present a legal quandary. David Ellenstein, artistic director of North Coast Rep, said Sarokin has a prescient quality of writing plays about issues that later explode into the public consciousness.

His last play, The Wedding Cake, was presented at North Coast Rep several months before the U.S. Supreme Court took up the gay marriage-themed issue and well before La Jolla Playhouse produced its own play on the topic, The Cake, last winter.

He has also written fictional plays about officer-involved shootings of black men, federal employees who release classified documents, the limits of diplomatic immunity, terrorism and federal corruption.Sarokin said he came up with the idea for The Protester in January after reading a report on the harsh living conditions in federal immigration detention centers. He had no idea the topic would blow up it as it has in recent months.

I try to make my plays current, but I couldnt keep up with this one, he said, in a backstage interview before the July 30 reading. Every day there was something in the paper that was more horrific, whether it was parents being deported and leaving their children behind or the sexual abuse of women in the centers.

The Protester is the story of Juan Rodriguez, a pizzeria worker in his mid-30s who entered the U.S. illegally with his father 20 years before the story begins. At work one day hes arrested by ICE officers and held in detention for deportation. After six months, hes freed to return to his wife, children and memory-impaired father thanks to the intervention of his sister Grace, a firebrand law student and naturalized U.S. citizen.

Angry about her brothers treatment, Grace organizes a noisy anti-deportation protest at her law schools graduation ceremony, where the anti-immigration U.S. attorney general is scheduled to speak. At a disciplinary hearing, Grace faces suspension or expulsion for repeatedly disrupting the ceremony to exercise her free speech rights. The play ends with Graces fate hanging in the balance.

Christopher Williams, who directed the reading, said he loves plays like The Protester because they dont offer a black-and-white conclusion.

Its easy to get caught up in the emotions of the play, Williams said. We go in with our gut on how we feel about the issue, but his plays help you understand the legal rules behind these decisions.

After patiently encouraging debate from the audience in the style of a college professor, Sarokin told the crowd that hes a free speech advocate and is sympathetic to the problems faced by the fictional Rodriguez family. But he doesnt believe Graces right to protest is any greater than the universitys right to choose its own keynote speaker and have a peaceful ceremony.

As with most of Sarokins plays, The Protester ends with an impassioned speech. In this play its delivered by Juan, played by actor Richard Trujillo, on the issues of free speech, patriotism, family unity and the law. Sarokin said these speeches always represent a summation of his own feelings on the topic.

Over the past nearly 90 years, Sarokin said hes seen great periods of social upheaval in this country. Although the racism and anti-immigrant rhetoric has ramped up in recent years, he said its not as severe now as it was during the civil rights era. However, Sarokin said this is the first time hes seen so much of the agitation, much of it false, being fomented by the president and the administration itself.

He said The Protester is his way of making people stop and think, no matter where they come down on the issue of illegal immigration.

I find it offensive that people who are coming here to seek asylum  which is authorized by international law  are treated in this country like criminals, he said. I know this is a hot-button topic. Its controversial. These plays are a great outlet for me to write about issues I have a great interest in.
Every newly married couple discovers that not long after the ceremony ends, the honeymoon will be over, and were not talking about that romantic six-night stay at the Plaza Hotel.

Neil Simons 1963 stage comedy Barefoot in the Park, which opened Aug. 2 at the Old Globes Sheryl and Harvey White in-the-round theater, captures that moment in time when Manhattan newlyweds Corie and Paul Bratter suffer their first major marital dust-up just a few days after their Plaza suite honeymoon.

Producing a 55-year-old play about a shallow, free-spirited housewife whose only responsibilities are decorating, cocktail-mixing and matchmaking may seem out of place in this era of female empowerment. But director Jessica Stone has found an ingenious way, through casting and smart scenic design, to make the story fresh and charming.

Simons inspiration for Barefoot was his blissful first marriage to dancer Joan Baim, who died from cancer 10 years after its premiere. So its fitting that Stone has made Baims theatrical alter-ego, Corie, the joyous, dancing embodiment of young love.

In her Old Globe debut as Corie, the radiant Kerry Bishe effortlessly steals the show. The Halt and Catch Fire TV star glows with marital happiness. Shes adoring, clever and playful as she embraces her new married life and conjures domestic decorating magic with her fingertips (think Samantha in Bewitched).

Although, as written, Corie has limited options as an early-60s homemaker, Stone makes the character warm, relatable and brainy in finding work-arounds in her cramped apartment  who knew a toilet tank makes a good liquor chiller?

Corie adores the couples decrepit fifth-floor walk-up apartment, but its one on a growing list of things that her uptight attorney husband, Paul, resents. Paul is amiably played by Glow TV star Chris Lowell, who does a slow burn through the two-hour, 20-minute play until he hilariously erupts in a furious drunken rage in the rewarding third act.

Mia Dillon is another scene-stealer as Cories buttoned-up mom, Ethel, who gradually and amusingly succumbs to the quirky charms of the Bratters upstairs neighbor, penniless Hungarian bon vivant Victor Velasco. Jere Burns (of TVs Angie Tribeca and Dear John) is wonderful in the flamboyant part.

Jake Millgard is sweet and understanding as the telephone repairman who gently counsels Corie that her broken phone/relationship can be repaired.

Re-creating the 1960s-era Upper East Side apartment in the round is a tricky job, particularly with so many hidden surprises tucked away, but scenic designer Tobin Ost has done a masterful job. And costume designer David Israel Reynoso has made the characters clothing classic and timeless.

Amanda Zieve designed lighting and Lindsay Jones designed sound.

Since 1965, the Old Globe has produced 12 Simon plays, including an earlier production of Barefoot in the Park back in 1968.

Not all of Simons plays have worn well with age, but Barefoot captures the spirit of discovery in new love and thats eternal.

Barefoot in the Park

When: 8 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays. (No performances Aug. 25-26). Through Sept. 2.

Where: Old Globes Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, Balboa Park.

Tickets: $30 and up

Phone: (619) 234-5623
In addition to live-action role-playing strategies for academic learning, discussed in last weeks column, other panels at San Diegos 2018 Comic-Con presented fascinating information about using comics and graphic novels to teach students core curriculum lessons.

Theres an endless array of opportunities using comics in the classroom, said Adam Kullberg, education program manager at Pop Culture Classroom and moderator of the Comics in the Classroom panel.

Education consultant Tracy Edmunds explained why comics work in the classroom:

Engaging. Comics require readers to actively engage in making meaning from text and images and can make boring information more interesting.

Efficient. The comic format conveys a great deal of information in a short time.

Effective. Processing text and images together leads to better recall and transfer of learning. Vocabulary is expanded when shown in context, and comics can bring out empathy and prompt emotional reactions in the reader.

Edmunds said comics and graphic novels work well to teach lessons across all curricula, and research shows that students who read text and images together have better attitudes toward learning, recall information more effectively, and can transfer their learning to new problems.

Fourth- and fifth-grade teacher Aron Steinke said, Comics are a gateway to literacy.

He said he uses multiple sources to teach subject matter, including comics, graphic novels, other novels and film adaptations.

Temecula Valley High School teacher Derek Heid said he sometimes has to teach students how to read comics because the structure is so different from textbooks and regular novels.

Comic book writer Scott Westerfeld said the format can cross boundaries and include memoirs, histories, nonfiction and many other genres that kids arent often interested in.

Heid said he has had some pushback from parents who object to having their children read comics in high school classes. But they usually see the results of the formats effectiveness as their kids discover a love for learning and a better appreciation of the subject matter.

Heid said hes also had to deal with negative reactions from staff and school administrators. I say comics and my bosses hear superheroes. Its a struggle, he said.

Ramona High School teacher Erin Hill said the only skepticism shes had has been from some students themselves.

Kids sometimes challenge me, saying this is not English, she said.

Panel members were enthusiastic about the possibilities for educators using comics and graphic novels in the classroom and suggested the following resources for teachers and parents:

n https://classroom.popcultureclassroom.org

www.ala.org/yalsa/great-graphic-novels [American Library Association]

Morality in comics

Panels also addressed how to use comics to teach children about social justice and morality.

Comic Book Legal Defense Fund executive director Charles Brownstein gave examples of how comics going back to the 1950s have addressed moral issues such as racism, gender identity and war crimes.

CBLDF is a nonprofit organization formed in 1986 to protect the First Amendment rights of comics creators, publishers and retailers.

CBLDF protects your freedom to read, Brownstein said. Comics are a powerful form of free expression.

In 1954, the comics medium was attacked by psychiatrist Fredric Wertham who claimed that reading comic books seduces youth and contributes to juvenile delinquency.

His claims were later disproved but not after they led to a congressional hearing and the creation of a Comics Code, which was established by comics publishers to prevent a third-party government agency from regulations and censorship.

Bill Gaines, an early icon of the comic book industry, testified against Werthams claims and said no one ever became psychotic from reading comics.

Brownstein said the charge that reading comic books turns good kids bad is analogous to later (false) claims that video games and heavy metal music lead to juvenile delinquency.

Mental health

In the Social Justice Warriors panel, moderator Heather Newman noted that Superman was a social justice warrior from decades ago.

Superman was fighting the Nazis for years and then began fighting the Ku Klux Klan, said producer Matt Nix.

We have a responsibility to address these issues, he said. Although its important to stand up for those being victimized, voice actor Mela Lee said, Its uncomfortable to be a hero.

Everyone is so beautifully different, said voice actor Erica Lindbeck, encouraging those who feel ostracized or marginalized to recognize that they have gifts to offer.

I look forward to the day when [being] transgender is the least interesting part of that character, said Nix, pointing out that social justice warriors are first and foremost human, regardless of color, race, nationality or gender identity.

With mental illness taking center stage in the national conversation about gun control, of interest was a discussion about mental health and how its portrayed in comics, graphic novels, film and television.

In the panel titled Crazy Together, a question from the audience directly addressed an education quandary: Do students blur the line between normal behavior and whats mental illness?

This is a concern, said psychiatrist Vasilis Pozios, because there may be an over-representation of serious mental illness as a superpower. Harry Potter villain Voldemort was named as an example.

Pozios said mental illness has been used as a reason for villainy, but thats changing. We dont want to conflate mental illness with evil, and we are getting away from that, he said.

Touching on the concept of moral insanity, he said, We dont want to stigmatize mental health issues because it discourages people from seeking treatment.

Moderator Sue Karlin said, A lot of characters [in comics and film] are born from trauma.

Attorney Jeff Trexler identified three kinds of people: good people who obey the rules, good people who go bad, and the insane.

Traditionally, there has been a relationship between mental health and malice or destruction, he said. The assumption has been that if you have a mental health issue, youll be violent.

Everybody now can have mental health issues, Trexler said. We need to find empathy for the mentally ill.

The Hamilton experience

The power of popular culture to positively influence children is unlimited and can be particularly effective on those suffering from depression, anxiety, bullying, suicidal and/or homicidal thoughts, isolation and alienation.

As social and emotional learning becomes more critical for todays youth, teachers are looking for ways to connect disaffected children to their common humanity, by improving self-esteem, nurturing empathy, and increasing joy and happiness in their lives.

According to a recent article in Education Week, elementary school principals are concerned about students emotional problems, mental health issues, poverty, and other factors connected to well-being. Many of those issues did not crack the top 10 concerns of principals just a decade ago.

Educators focused on academic success must begin to look at new avenues for teaching that engage students with passion and encourage them to take the initiative in their own learning.

If theres any doubt, think about how the musical Hamilton has deeply connected students to an interest in American history.

Live-action role-playing, graphic novels, musicals, film and comics are some ways that can excite kids and make learning pleasurable.

The old ways of teaching cant continue to be successful without innovative efforts by educators to inculcate their lessons with a broader array of non-traditional options to expand learning potential.

LARP on.

[To read Part One, see: https://www.delmartimes.net/our-columns/sd-cm-nc-marsha-sutton-20180731-story.html.]

Opinion columnist and Sr. Education Writer Marsha Sutton can be reached at suttonmarsha@gmail.com
By Rong-Gong Lin II and Javier Panzar

5 August 2018

(Los Angeles Times)  At Scripps Pier in San Diego, the surface water reached the highest temperature in 102 years of records, 78.8 degrees.Palm Springs had its warmest July on record, with an average of 97.4 degrees. Death Valley experienced its hottest month on record, with the average temperature hitting 108.1. Park rangers said the heat was too much for some typically hardy birds that died in the broiling conditions.Across California, the nighttime brought little relief, recording the highest minimum temperature statewide of any month since 1895, rising to 64.9.California has been getting hotter for some time, but July was in a league of its own. The intense heat fueled fires across the state, from San Diego County to Redding, that have burned more than 1,000 homes and killed eight. It brought heat waves that overwhelmed electrical systems, leaving swaths of Los Angeles without power for days.Moreover, the extreme conditions  capping years of trends heading in this direction  have caused scientists and policymakers to speak more openly and emphatically about what is causing this dramatic shift.A decade ago, some scientists would warn against making broad conclusions linking an extraordinary heat wave to global warming. But the pace of heat records being broken in California in recent years is leading more scientists here to assertively link climate change to unrelenting heat that is only expected to worsen as humans continue putting greenhouse gases in the air.

In the past, it would just be kind of once in a while  the odd year where you be really warm, state climatologist Michael Anderson said.But the last five years have been among the hottest in 124 years of record keeping, Anderson said.Thats definitely an indication that the world is warming, and things are starting to change, said Anderson, who manages the California Department of Water Resources state climate program. Were starting to see things where its different. Its setting the narrative of climate change.Gov. Jerry Brown, who has made climate change a central part of his agenda, was more blunt last week when discussing the devastation in Redding. People are doing everything they can, but nature is very powerful and were not on the side of nature, he said. Were fighting nature with the amount of material were putting in the environment, and that material traps heat.Signs of the trend are everywhere. California endured its warmest summer on record last year. All-time temperature records have been topped in recent months  San Francisco notched 106 degrees in September; downtown L.A. recorded its hottest Thanksgiving Day on record at 92 degrees.On 6 July 2018, all-time temperature records were set at UCLA (111), Burbank and Santa Ana (114), and Van Nuys (117). Chino hit 120 degrees, the highest ever recorded at an automated surface observing system in the Ontario, Riverside or Chino areas.It was the warmest July on record in Fresno; for 26 consecutive days that month, temperatures reached or exceeded 100 degrees  the longest continuous stretch on record, said Brian Ochs, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Hanford. (Maximum temperatures have continued to top 100 through the first several days of August.)

In terms of average temperature, it was the warmest July on record in San Luis Obispo (69.5), Oxnard (73.1), Camarillo (74.6), Long Beach (77.9), Van Nuys (83.6), Lancaster (87.2) and Palmdale (87.8). Anaheim saw its second-warmest July (81.3); Newport Beach, its fourth warmest (71.8); and San Diego, its fifth (75.2), said weather service meteorologist Samantha Connolly.Of particular concern is how overnight temperatures continue to climb. The years with the top six warmest summertime minimum temperatures in California  defined as June through August  in descending order, are 2017, 2015, 2014, 2006, 2016, and 2013.Its no coincidence that theyre all in recent years, experts say.We are seeing the impacts of climate change now, said Nina Oakley, regional climatologist for the Western Regional Climate Center in Reno. This is certainly it. Its happening. []The excessive heat is already causing problems for wildlife.In Death Valley, where daytime highs reached at least 120 degrees on 18 of the last 19 days of the month, about a dozen birds  including a raven, an owl and a brown-headed cowbird  have turned up dead in the last two weeks, the National Park Service said. The birds lacked signs of trauma, leading officials to believe they died from the intense heat. Birds lack the ability to produce sweat and instead cool themselves by puffing up their feathers and panting.Park rangers have found groups of songbirds and ravens huddled around small puddles and in the shade of a maintenance building, spokeswoman Abby Wines said.This isnt normal for us, she said. [more]

Californias destructive summer brings blunt talk about climate change
25 July 2018 (The Siberian Times)  The brown bears are one of Russias great symbols but they are under great threat, according to the FSB, the Federal Security Service.

The agency is calling for the bears to be labelled a strategically important resource and given far greater protection under the law.

Between 2015 and 2017, numbers fell from 225,000 to 143,000, according to Georgy Avagumyan, a representative of the Prosecutor Generals office which has also demanded Red Book protection for the species.A new law proposes increasing punishments to 10 years in jail for poaching or smuggling bear parts for individuals and 12 years for a gang.Fines would reach $15,800.The FSB proposals would also apply to Himalayan  or black bears  and musk deer.This follows an upsurge in poaching and black market smuggling.Bear paws are particularly appreciated in Asia where they are used as delicacies or in Oriental medicine including as a potency cure. The General Prosecutors office cited Rosprirodnadzor  the federal agency for supervision of use of natural resources  stating that: During 2016 and 2017, the customs in TransBaikal region, Primorsky region, Amur region and the Jewish autonomous region confiscated 189 bear paws  54 claws, and over two kilograms of dried bile. At the end of 2017, the FSB in TransBaikal region detained a local who had 468 bear paws and 37 elk heads in his car. []Some sources dispute the statistics saying brown bears are being decimated. The Ministry of Nature claimed bear numbers actually increased despite poaching from 203,600 to 245,100. []The WWF say it is unnecessary to include brown bears in the Red Book because observations conducted in recent years did not show worrying changes in numbers of the predators. [more]
Nigeria's acting leader dismissed the head of the state security agency on Tuesday, his spokesman said on Twitter.

The move came hours after Department of State Security (DSS) agents prevented lawmakers from entering parliament.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo's spokesman said DSS head Lawal Musa Daura had been removed from his position. Osinbajo is acting president for Muhammadu Buhari, who is out of the country on holiday.

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By Timothy Cama 6 August 2018 (The Hill)  President Trump doubled down on his criticism of California Gov. Jerry Brown (D), saying Monday that the states water management policies are responsible for deadly wildfires.Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean, Trump tweeted . Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water  Nice! Fast Federal govt. Approvals.Trump said on Sunday that too much water from the northern part of the state is being allowed to flow into the Pacific Ocean, instead of being captured or redirected to use for firefighting, agriculture or other purposes.The presidents remarks echo longstanding Republican arguments that environmental policies like the Endangered Species Act make it harder for California to hold onto its water. Congressional Republicans for years have pushed for policies to direct more water into storage or to the southern part of the state.But fire officials have generally not complained that they are running out of water to fight the blazes.California is experiencing one of the worst wildfire seasons in its history. The blazes have killed several people and burned hundreds of thousands of acres.The Mendocino Complex fire is now the second-largest since record-keeping began, the Los Angeles Times reports .Lynette Round, spokeswoman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, told the San Francisco Chronicle on Monday that she is not aware of water shortages for firefighting.LeRoy Westerling, a professor at the University of California, Merced, who studies wildfires and climatology, told the Chronicle that Trumps tweet on Sunday boggles the mind.Even if we eliminated all habitat for riparian species and fish, and allowed saltwater intrusion into the delta and set up a sprinkler system over the state, that wouldnt compensate for greater moisture loss from climate change, he said. [ more ]

Trump doubles down, blaming Californias water policies for wildfires

By Jennifer Calfas

6 August 2018

(TIME)  President Donald Trump has waded into the debate over the cause of Californias enormous and deadly wildfires by claiming that the states environmental protection efforts are stopping firefighters from properly battling the blazes.

But state fire officials, climate scientists and ecologists say Trumps assertion is baffling  and false.

On Sunday, Trump tweeted that fast-spreading fires are being magnified by bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. On Monday, Trump doubled down on his claims, saying water being diverted into the Pacific Ocean can be used for fires, farming and everything else.We have plenty of water to fight these wildfires, says Scott McLean, deputy chief at Californias Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), in an email to TIME. Our changing climate is leading to more severe and destructive fires that we are seeing this year and last.There are no more specifics that I can address, McLean, of Cal Fire, adds, referring to Trumps tweet.Fires have scorched at least 290,000 acres so far in 2018  more than double the area thats normal for this time of year, Cal Fire says. The Carr Fire, ignited in late July and still burning more than 160,000 acres near Redding, Calif., has killed at least seven people, including a great-grandmother and her two great-grandchildren. The Mendocino Complex fire, two neighboring fires surrounding lakeside towns north of Santa Rosa, Calif., has ballooned to 224,001 acres  now the second-largest blaze in state history. And experts anticipate the 2018 season will only get worse.Years of drought have resulted in an abundance of dry vegetation across the Golden State, making it easier for wildfires to start  and allowing them to grow faster and and bigger once they catch. Record-setting temperatures in many cities across California makes the intensity of these fires only worse  to the point where they can create their own unpredictable, destructive weather systems. Neither the drought, nor Californias water management policies, have stopped firefighters from using all the water they need to fight this years wildfires, experts say. And befuddled scientists who spoke with TIME could only guess at what Trump meant in his tweets. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.I sort of had to suppress a chuckle when I read the Presidents tweet, says Glen MacDonald, a distinguished professor of geography and ecology at the University of California, Los Angeles.He clearly doesnt know what hes talking about, echoes LeRoy Westerling, a climate scientist and associate professor at the University of California, Merced. []The problem here is hes not acknowledging the role climate change is playing in Californias fire problem, and the scale of the problem is far beyond anything hes talking about doing, Westerling says. Anything hes talking about doing would come nowhere near addressing this problem. [more]
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American boat builders rocked by Trump tariffs

They are selling fewer boats, raising prices and bracing for layoffs. About 650,000 people in the U.S. work at manufacturers, marinas and dealers.



By MICHELLE R. SMITH

Associated Press

NEWPORT, R.I.  MJM Yachts has already felt the sting of tariffs. CEO Bob Johnstone was negotiating the sale of a 53-foot, $2.2 million yacht to a buyer in Monaco when the European Union announced a 25 percent tariff on American-made boats as retaliation for the Trump administration's tariffs on imported aluminum and steel.



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CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP)  Military leaders in South Carolina are preparing for rising sea levels while partisans dispute whether it's the effect of global warming.

The Post and Courier of Charleston reports the Marine Corps training grounds on Parris Island need a sea wall, roads near Charleston's Coast Guard stations are swamped when heavy rain adds to high tides and stone reinforcements were installed to protect a runway from erosion at the Marine Corp Air Station in Beaufort.





. . .
An Israeli strike on Tuesday killed two militants of the Gaza Strip's ruling Hamas movement after shots were fired at soldiers, Palestinian and Israeli officials said.

Hamas's military wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, confirmed in a statement that the dead men were its fighters and named them as Ahmed Murjan and Abdel-Hafez al-Silawi.

An Israeli occupation military statement, apparently referring to the same incident, said that the army returned fire after shots were fired at its soldiers from a Hamas post in the northern Gaza Strip, next to the border with Israel.

Palestinian sources said that the Israeli attack was in the north of the strip but they said it was a drone strike, while the Israeli statement said that it was tank fire.

A video distributed by the Israeli occupation army appeared to show a tank striking a military post in the Gaza Strip.

No Israeli troops were injured in the exchange.

Since Palestinian protests and clashes along the Gaza border erupted at the end of March, at least 160 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire.

One Israeli soldier has been shot dead by a Palestinian sniper.

The protests call for Palestinians to be able to return to the land they or their families fled or were expelled from in the 1948 war surrounding the creation of Israel.

Israel besieged Gaza since 2007, waging three wars against the strip 2008, 2012 and 2014, leaving more than 3000 Palestinians killed, thousands injured and infrastructure in shambles.

The United Nations and Egypt are currently trying to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas for a lasting truce.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online

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Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will pay a state visit to Germany on Sept. 28-29, a spokeswoman for German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said on Tuesday, amid efforts by the allies to improves ties strained by a number of disputes.

The two fellow members of the NATO military alliance have differed over Turkey's crackdown on suspected opponents of Erdogan after a failed coup in 2016 and over its detention of German citizens.

The spokeswoman did not say if Erdogan would also hold talks with Chancellor Angela Merkel. Merkel's office declined to comment.

Germany's mass-selling Bild newspaper reported last month that Erdogan would visit Germany around late September.

A state visit would include a reception by Steinmeier with military honours and a formal state banquet. The German and Turkish foreign ministers vowed earlier this year to do everything to improve relations.

Their resolve led to the release in February of a German-Turkish journalist who had been held in Turkey for a year for alleged security offences. His release fulfilled a key demand by Germany, which still takes issue with what it calls Turkey's deteriorating record on human rights.

Another German national was arrested in southeastern Turkey last month accused of spreading propaganda for Turkish militants, Turkish state media said.

The Turkish government has purged more than 150,000 civil servants and charged 77,000 people since the failed coup.

It has also launched cross-border operations into Syria against what it says are terrorist threats by the Kurdish YPG militia, which it deems a terrorist organisation linked to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).

Rights groups and Turkey's Western allies have criticised the crackdown, saying Erdogan has used the coup as a pretext to muzzle dissent. The government says the measures are necessary.

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North Korea released a South Korean citizen detained in July after crossing the border into the North, the South's Unification Ministry said on Tuesday.

The prisoner was a 34-year-old man surnamed Seo who was detained after "illegally" entering North Korea last month, the ministry said.

South Korean officials have pressed for the return of six other South Koreans believed to have been held for years in North Korea, and the Unification Ministry said they believed Seo's release is a positive sign.

In May, North Korea released three American prisoners in a gesture seen as clearing the way for June's summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump.

After the Americans were released, the United Nations human rights investigator on North Korea, Tomas Ojea Quintana, issued a statement calling for the South Koreans to also be freed.

Among them are Christian missionaries Kim Jung-wook, who was arrested in October 2013, and Kim Kook-kie and Choi Chun-kil, who have been held since 2014, the ministry said.

The other three are North Korean defectors who South Koreas National Intelligence Service said last year were captured by the North without specifying where and why.

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Germany's poultry farmers beleaguered by higher feed costs



A summer drought in Germany has sparked rising prices of animal feed, causing the country's poultry farmers to seek for price increase from supermarkets, according to producer association ZDG.

Costlier animal feed in recent days have burdened German poultry farmers, with current prices for wheat, "a central component of chicken and turkey feed," about 25% over last year's level," ZDG said.



Germany's harvest for this year has been curtailed by what is described as the hottest July since 1881. Harvest of German wheat is anticipated to slide about 25% on year, the German farmers' union revealed.



ZDG warned that poultry farmers would not be able to cope with extra costs that occurred as a result of the drought. Assistance by the German government could come in the form of special aid to help farmers deal with higher feed prices, but this intervention is currently under consideration.



ZDG also hopes that food retailers "increase their purchase prices," and consumers would accept higher prices for poultry meat.



- BusinessWorld




Japan holds offpork imports from China



Following the outbreak of African swine flu (ASF) in China on August 3, Japan has suspended imports of Chinese heat-treated pork, according to an official from Japan's ministry of agriculture, forestry and fisheries.

The official added that other by-products, such as sausage casings and heat-treated rice straw used for pig beddings, which could be contaminated as well, were also temporarily suspended.



"This is to ensure that all requirements for the import products were met," he explained. However, importations will likely resume within a couple of days.



Another official revealed that Japan has taken measures to tightenquarantine operations at airports and seaports, especially for travellers from Shenyang and Dalian, both located within the vicinity of the infected areas.



Immigration officers are using more sniffer dogs than usual and have begun alerting travellers of China's ASF situation.



Previously, due to the foot-and-mouth epidemic, Japan has already banned raw pork imports from China.




Vietnam poultry firm wants government's help to sever partnership

Ba Huan JSC, a Vietnamese poultry company, is unhappy with its six-month-old investment partnership with asset management firm VinaCapital, and has called for the country's prime minister to help end the deal.

According to a DEALSTREETASIA report, Ba Huan argues that the deal is unreasonable as its terms were initially stipulated in English. This, the company claimed, had led to confusion, with Ba Huan apparently agreeing to the deal in a haste. As a result of the partnership, VinaCapital's flagship fund Vietnam Opportunity Fund (VOF) invested $32.5 million for minority stake in the company.



Ba Huan's main grievance, as communicated to the government in a petition, is that the internal rate of return (IRR) of 22% per year sought by VinaCapital is too high. The company contended that it would be fined or has to return the investment capital with an additional 22% interest, if IRR is not fulfilled. If Ba Huan does not commit to those terms, it is obligated to transfer to VinaCapital or its partner at least a 51% stake in the company.



Ba Huan pointed out that the partnership also limits the company's involvement in other forms of businesses except chicken and eggs. Its other complaint alleged VinaCapital's inclination to veto all board decisions.



Both companies are currently working together to find a solution, a representative of Ba Huan said.



Ba Huan, which is established in 2001, contributes 30% to Vietnam's pasteurised egg market. The company has invested heavily in its operations and acquired modern production lines from Europe. It operates two fully enclosed industrial poultry farms, including a layer farm with over 1.5 million chickens for commercial egg production, and a broiler farm with over 400,000 chickens for meat production.



On a daily basis, Ba Huan supplies over 1.7 million eggs, delivers over 15,000 chickens, and processes over 25 tonnes of fresh poultry meat.



- DEALSTREETASIA


By Roll Call , Aug. 04, 2018





Updated 20:29 p.m. | President Donald Trump dove headfirst into a House special election Saturday evening, aiming to give Ohio Republican Troy Balderson a final push three days before Election Day.





The race in the suddenly competitive 12th District between the state lawmaker and Franklin County Recorder Danny OConnor, polls say, is now essentially tied. Trump and Republican leaders are eager to keep the seat in GOP hands after the retirement of former Republican Rep. Pat Tiberi earlier this year.

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Moscow is disappointed by the resumption of US sanctions on Iran, Russias Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.

In a statement posted on its official website, the ministry called the US move a shining example of violations of international law.

In particular, the sanctions violate UN Security Council Resolution 2231, it said.

The JCPOA fully justifies itself. It has proved its effectiveness, said the ministry, using the acronym for the Iran nuclear deal.

The [nuclear watchdog] IAEA regularly confirms that Iran has strictly adhered to its obligations. The verification and control measures foreseen by the action plan are fully applied. This, itself, is a reliable indication of the peaceful nature of the Iranian nuclear program.

We will do everything necessary to preserve and fully implement the deal, the statement said.

The first round of the US pre-nuclear deal sanctions on Iran, largely targeting the countrys banking sector, went into effect early Tuesday.

The sanctions target Tehrans acquisition of US dollars, precious metals trade, transactions related to Irans rial currency, activities related to Irans sovereign debt, and the countrys automotive sector.

In July 2015, the P5+1 group of countries  the US, Britain, France, China, Russia, and Germany  signed the nuclear deal with Iran.

But on May 8, US President Donald Trump announced his countrys unilateral withdrawal from the deal, drawing condemnation worldwide

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US reimposes first round of sanctions on Iran

Economic penalties target Tehran's acquisition of US dollars, precious metals trade, transactions related to Iran's rial

The U.S. on Monday moved to reimpose the first wave of pre-nuclear deal sanctions on Iran, largely targeting the country's banking sector.

Senior administration officials told reporters the economic penalties, which will be rigorously enforced, will go into effect at one minute after midnight (0401GMT) Tuesday morning.

SANCTIONS ON IRAN

The sanctions target Tehran's acquisition of U.S. dollars, precious metals trade, transactions related to Iran's rial, activities related to Iran's sovereign debt, and the country's automotive sector.

The actions follow President Donald Trump's decision May 8 to withdraw the U.S. from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) that world powers, including the U.S, struck with Iran. The agreement placed unprecedented curbs on Iran's nuclear program, subjecting it to a rigorous inspection regime in exchange for billions of dollars in relief from international sanctions.

"CAUSE SOME PROBLEMS"

"Since the deal was reached, Irans aggression has only increased," Trump said in a statement marking the reimposition of the sanctions. "The regime has used the windfall of newly accessible funds it received under the JCPOA to build nuclear-capable missiles, fund terrorism, and fuel conflict across the Middle East and beyond."

Following Trump's May announcement the U.S. has imposed sanctions on a further 38 Iranian entities.

Earlier Monday Iran's foreign minister, Javad Zarif, said Iran has been "passing through a very critical period of time and U.S. sanctions and extortion may cause some problems".

"The world is talking about the isolated U.S., not a lonely Iran, he said.

"EU DOING LEGITIMATE BUSINESS WITH IRAN"

Trump's decision to exit Washington from the nuclear agreement roiled the U.S.'s negotiating partners, including the European Union, which had sought to get the American president to change course.

The EU vowed Monday to protect Europeans doing "legitimate" business with Iran.

"We are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran, in accordance with EU law and with UN Security Council Resolution 2231," the bloc said in a statement.

THE SECOND WAVE IS COMING

One of the officials who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity said the U.S. is not too concerned with the efforts and cited Iran's economic woes as evidence that U.S. sanctions are working.

The second wave of sanctions is set to take effect Nov. 5, targeting Iran's port operators, petroleum-related transactions, and Iran's shipping sector and central bank.
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JU-Air plans to resume flying on Aug. 17, the airline said on Tuesday, two weeks after one of its small vintage planes crashed in the Swiss Alps with the loss of all 20 people aboard.

The crash occurred on Saturday when one of the airline's midcentury JU-52 aircraft went into a nosedive on the west side of the Piz Segnas mountain in the canton of Grissons.

The cause of the incident -- which occurred hours after a family of four was killed when their small plane went down further west in the Alps -- remains under investigation and could take weeks or months to determine, authorities said.

The effort is complicated by the vintage plane's lack of a "black box" flight recording device.

"We plan to resume flights on August 17 unless we receive any indications until then that safety might be a concern," JU-Air spokesman Christian Gartmann said. "At the moment we don't have any indication that it would be unsafe to resume flight."

The country's aviation authority, the Federal Office of Civil Aviation, said that so long as there is no firm suspicion of a technical defect, it cannot order the grounding of the airline's fleet.

The airline would need to ensure its crew and maintenance staff were psychologically fit for flight, the federal office warned, adding it would take additional measures, including issuing a temporary flight ban if necessary, should pertinent information surface meanwhile.

The plane hit the ground nearly vertically and at high speed, authorities determined. It was heading north past the Martinsloch rock window, when -- instead of flying over the ridge -- it made a sharp curve and suddenly tilted into a nosedive, an eyewitness said.

"It didn't take 15 seconds," eyewitness Raini Feldner told Swiss newspaper Tages-Anzeiger.

Established in 1982, JU-Air offers sightseeing, charter and adventure flights on mid-century Junkers Ju-52 aircraft decommissioned by the Swiss Air Force and known affectionately in German as "Auntie Ju" planes.

The crash of the aircraft, built in the late 1930s as a military aircraft, was the first time the airline had had an accident resulting in death or injury to passengers or crew members, the airline's chief executive said.

Recovery works were wrapped up at the site on Tuesday, the office of Switzerland's attorney general said, with the surrounding area once again opened to hikers.

"Under coordination of the attorney general's office, formal indentification of the victims will now be carried out, and our investigations and clarifications will continue," the authority said in a statement.

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p WA Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan, speaking at LambEx 2018 at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre on Monday.

WA Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan spoke to the 987 delegates at LambEx 2018 at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre on Monday, on behalf of major event partner, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

Ms MacTiernan said the $7 billion per year sheep, wool and meat industry was written in the history of this country.

It is an incredible industry and has often been through some very turbulent times, Ms MacTiernan said.

Our hearts go out to those farmers and New South Wales and Queensland in particular who are currently going through a devastating drought.

Ms MacTiernan acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the live export trade.

We need to work together so we can get that industry restarted in a months time when the worst of the heat is over and get it restarted with reputable operators and with adequate vessels, she said.

What we need to do is get some clarity on the stocking densities for the next nine months so that operators can understand the commercial decisions that they have to make and get on with the task.

Ms MacTiernan said more importantly the governments focus was on contributing to the resilience in the live trade industry so sheep producers could have choices.

To have the flexibility that they need to respond to changing market conditions.

And to do that we need to be on top of the science  the technology and the agronomy.

Another focus was the DPIRDs research capabilities.

Ms MacTiernan said the State government was committed to the ongoing development of DPIRDs Katanning research facility as a national sheep research centre.

In recent years we have put more than $1 million into the research facility so that we can continue to attract the research and increase the collaboration between the State government and other research institutions, she said.

The minister said this included $900,000 being used for new investment into the research station for the development of a feed efficiency shed.

This will help us take to the next level the work that we are doing on the national genetic resource flock, Ms MacTiernan said.

That flock is used to progeny test industry sires for traits such as meat quality which cant be measured in live animals.

The feed efficiency shed will enable them to assess the feed intake of individual sheep to be determined to identify the animals that most efficiently use the feed.

It will work hand in hand with their DEXA equipment.

The capabilities of DEXA now with the feed efficiency shed will allow researches to identify those genetic traits that will help fast track that selection of the best breeding stock, Ms MacTiernan said.

We think it is going to be an important part of producing that catalyst for growth.
TEACHERS from across the State were able to learn from innovative farmers through a new program which they can pass onto students.

The Teacher Farm Experience Program (TeacherFX) allowed 35 primary and high school educators of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and digital technology subjects to go on-farm to gain valuable knowledge and a deeper understanding of the practices, skills and technology involved in farming, which they could incorporate into the classroom.

The teachers spent two days visiting four farms in the Narrogin area on July 23-24, providing a diverse taste of farming with broadacre, livestock and horticulture enterprises.

TeacherFX is a joint initiative between the Rabobank WA Client Council  a group of the banks farming clients who discuss and implement ideas of sustainability in rural communities  and CQUniversity (CQUni).

Rabobank WA regional manager Crawford Taylor said by immersing teachers in farm life and giving them insight into the latest technology in food and fibre production, their teaching would be enriched with their new found knowledge and hands-on experiences.

One of the big challenges for the ag sector and an issue that has been identified by Rabobanks Client Council, is bridging the urban-rural divide and attracting youth to agriculture, Mr Taylor said.

The goal is that each teacher attending the program will return to school and share the learnings and insights with the 30 or so students taking their class.

We are also planning to showcase the technological advancements being made in the agriculture sector, as technology makes agriculture a very exciting and savvy industry for the next generation for farmers, scientists, conservationists, ag engineers, consultants, innovators and other agribusiness professional to be involved in.

CQUni provided support for the programs developments and will supply materials and resources for teachers to apply their experiences in the classroom, as well as evaluation measures to record the programs success.

We hope that by equipping teachers with the practical tools and skills to incorporate the learnings into the WA digital technology and STEM curriculum, it will see students increasingly take up these subjects and perhaps stimulate their interest in studying these fields at university or college, said CQUni senior research officer in agri-tech education and innovation Amy Cosby.

An extension on the previous Farm Experience Program which started in 2014, the TeacherFX program was the first of its kind in Australia where teachers could go on-farm to broaden their horizons.

Farm Experience involved students spending a week with farming families to learn about food and fibre production and since its inception, more than 150 city students across the country have participated.

Methodist Ladies College, Perth, science teacher Megan Caporn took part in the TeacherFX program and her daughter Paris did the Farm Experience Program in 2010.

She said such programs were a positive way for students to gain more of an understanding of agriculture and of their peers from rural areas.

As a science teacher I was keen to find out more about the use of STEM in agriculture in WA so I could use it as examples in my teaching and I knew that my daughter had an amazing experience, so I was keen to find out more, Ms Caporn said.

I have already started incorporating the things I learnt into my teaching, such as energy transformations in my year 9 science class  it was terrific to hear the farmers talk about the crops and solar panels in terms of harnessing the energy and then using that crop to feed their sheep, thereby transferring the energy from one to the other.

With older students I have been talking about GPS tracking of sheep  one of the farms was doing a trial with the University of Queensland (UQ) to look at GPS tracking of livestock and we did some practice with the program that the university is using so we could use it with our students in our classrooms.

We could see where the animals had been in a paddock, look at their behaviour, how much they are moving and why, so it was a great data analysis tool and a good example of real technology for the students that is being used in their home State.

St Josephs Primary School, Moora, assistant principal and year 4 teacher Jae Dornan also attended the program as he was looking to increase his knowledge of food and fibre production.

Living in the Moora area, which is heavily involved in farming and farming practices, I wanted to increase my knowledge of the area because a lot of the kids and their parents are on farms, Mr Dornan said.

It was also good to link in with the design and technologies curriculum about food and fibre production and find out about technology use on farms and how farming has changed over time.

One of the host farmers was Jenny Wiles, Popanyinning, who opened her 4856.2 hectare property to the visiting teachers.

The operation comprises 85 per cent cropping of oats, hay, barley and canola and 15pc sheep for Merino wool and prime lamb production.

Ms Wiles has often welcomed visitors to her farm for them to learn about agriculture and the practices involved.

When our kids were at school we used to have international students and university students come, so when Rabobank contacted us looking for farmers, I thought it was a good idea, Ms Wiles said.

Ms Wiles said on the property tour they explained the different crops, talked about the seeding and cropping program, export hay, the affects of water logging and the planning involved in a farm business.

Veronica Davies, Rabobank WA Regional Client Council, said there were plans to spread the TeacherFX program to other parts of the country.

We are aiming to roll out the program more broadly, both geographically but also in terms of the material covered, so it can focus on technology and innovation in specific sectors such as wine grapes, beef or grain, Ms Davies said.
RESEARCHER Dr Danila Marini, Armidale, New South Wales, West Australian university student Jamie Nykiel and NSW Riverina high school student Lindsay Brown are the LambEx 2018 Young Guns.

They were selected from a field of nine finalists over categories covering young producers and professionals, undergraduate and postgraduate students and years 10-12 secondary school students.

The finalists were presented to the Monday afternoon session of LambEx 2018 at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre before the winners in each category were announced.

Representatives from LambEx 2018 Young Guns competition sponsors who helped choose the winners, Andrew Heinrich from the Australian White Suffolk Association and Finley Leach from National Australia Bank Agribusiness, presented them with framed certificates.

They also each receive $1000.

Dr Marini, 27, who is undertaking post-doctorate research on virtual herding technologies at University of New England as part of the Rural R&D for Profit programme, said she was very appreciative of the competition and prize.

"It is just fantastic to be involved in the industry in this way and for LambEx to embrace the upcoming generation of students and professionals," Dr Marini said after her win.

"It is also great to see that the work we (researchers) are doing is of interest to the industry and can make a difference," she said.

Last year Dr Marini's PhD thesis at University of New England was on virtual fencing to better manage sheep.

A member of NSW Farmers and their animal welfare committee, she moved to Armidale from South Australia in 2013 after obtaining a Bachelor of Animal Science at the University of Adelaide with first class honours for her thesis on the effects of intrauterine growth restriction on stress responses in sheep.

Just returned from a study tour of China which included visits to sheep and cattle enterprises there, third-year Murdoch University Bachelor of Science student majoring in animal science and animal health, Ms Nykiel, 22, was also appreciative of LambEx and the Young Guns competition.

"I'm extremely excited to have won, it means (the industry) is leaning towards a brighter future and wanting to have a good representation of the younger generation coming up," Ms Nykiel said.

Originally from Queensland and now living on campus, she represented WA at the National Merino Challenge and attended the UQBS Sheep Meat Value Chain training program.

Last year she was an associate judge for the Merino section at the IGA Perth Royal Show and also attended the AgVivo SIBI Sheep Camp.

For Yanco Agricultural High School student Lindsay Brown, 17, attending LambEx was prize enough.

"Winning was a bonus, I'm just happy to come across to Perth for LambEx," he said.

Raised on a sheep and winter cropping farm near Beckom in the Riverina, Lindsay recently bought his own mob of 20 first cross ewes to produce his own prime lambs with the White Suffolk sires he has selected.

He is also involved with his school's White Suffolk stud and ram sales, showing sheep at shows and participating in junior judging competitions, including the Sydney Royal Easter show at the state final.

He has already completed a Certificate IV in Woolclassing.

Lindsay said he planned a "gap year" helping on his parents' farm, doing some wool classing and some work for the local wool broker when he completes secondary school.

"Then it'll probably be off to university or whatever else comes up," he said.

The competition aims to reward and encourage young and upcoming producers, industry professionals and scientists to consider a future or career in the lamb industry.

Each of the finalists had to get through a first round which included identifying and discussing key opportunities that in future will affect the Australian lamb and sheepmeat industry currently worth an estimated $4.38 billion to the national economy.

In the second round they had to design a poster and make an in-person presentation with questions from the four judges.

They were assessed on communication style, whether their presentation helped the audience understand the topic and how the audience reacted at a professional development workshop on the Sunday before LambEx was formally opened.
The US State Department on Tuesday urged Canada and Saudi Arabia to resolve their dispute triggered by Canadian comments expressing concern over the arrests of activists in the Arab state.

"Both sides need to diplomatically solve this together. We can't do it for them, they need to resolve it together," State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said.

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This article was written by James Stewart

The natural wonders of Turkeys Turquoise Coast are hardly a secret. So in high season, when its most popular resorts are bustling and summer parties are in full swing, you might want to escape somewhere quieter for the day, to find a beach or a bar practically to yourself. Here are five fabulous secret beach spots on the Turkish Riviera.

Datca

For a long time, the winding road along the spindly Datca Peninsula was so bad that Datca was practically off limits to all but those with yachts  and thats precisely why it remains so unspoilt. Its still quickest and easiest to get there by sea; just hop on a boat across the bay from Bodrum. But now you can also take the scenic route through olive groves and pine-forested mountains for the 20-odd miles from Marmaris. Charming Old Datca (Eski Datca) has been smartened up in recent years, with chic bars, restaurants and boutique hotels  and the coast has beautiful bays. One of the loveliest is Ovabuku, set against a verdant backdrop.

Selimiye

The most rustic of the resorts on the Bozburun peninsula west of Marmaris has no large hotels, no themed pubs and no grip on the 21st century. The former fishing village is on a mirror calm bay, a ribbon of crusty terracotta roofs on dusty lanes. Nightlife means a glass of aniseed raki after whichever fish restaurant took your fancy, then a moonlit stroll to bed. If you are looking to do nothing more pressing than rise late, sunbathe on dreamy beaches (Kumlubuk is the regions best), read and eat, youll fit right in.

Orhaniye

The mellow Bozburun Peninsula, nosing into the blue where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean, is a corner of Turkey that is somehow overlooked, though its not far from Marmaris and Bodrum. It was made for seafarers, with its sleepy fishing villages and gulet-building yards and its calm, beautiful bays. Swim at Orhaniye, a gorgeous bay of sapphire blue with a curious sand spit just below the surface, where you can walk as though on water. Afterwards, bag yourself a hammock at the back of the beach.

Cral

Cral could be a whopper. Its two-mile beach is a scimitar of fine shingle wedged between rocky spurs. Ripe for commercialisation, then. But because loggerhead turtles lay their eggs here, development is forbidden  which is why Cral today is a mellow family resort that feels more distant than its hour from Antalya. That its a dead end helps. Largely car-free, verdant with citrus and pomegranate trees, Cralremains a place to potter: hotel, beach, restaurant, repeat. Magic. The ancients thought so too. They saw the natural flames flickering from rocks as evidence of monsters at nearby Chimaera. At the other end of the beach is ancient Olympos. Unleash your inner Indiana Jones among the ruins.

Kabak

Theres not much to Kabak. Thank heavens for that. While boat taxis ferry day trippers from Fetihye to Butterfly Valley, Kabak, the next cove south, cradled by craggy, pine-cloaked hills, retains a soulful off-the-radar atmosphere: reed-roofed shades on the beach (beautiful, incidentally); a few cafes selling homemade food; some lovely, simple accommodation. Thats about it. Access is on a dirt road. You could cajole a taxi driver in Oludeniz to go. More satisfying is to walk in on the Lycian Way from Butterfly Valley. Over three spirit-soaring hours, crowds fall behind and the scenery takes over. Your reward afterwards? A dip in cerulean seas. Bliss.

Turkish delight

Turkey is a diverse country with stunning beaches, great food, spectacular scenery, ancient history and nightlife to suit all tastes.

Jet2holidays flies direct to the three Turkish coastal gateways of Antalya, Bodrum and Dalaman from nine regional airports across the UK and offers a range of full packages to suit all budgets, including hotel, flights, transfers, 22kg baggage allowance and rep service.

To find out more and make a booking visit jet2holidays.com

Source: The Telegraph

Featured image: Cral Beach courtesy of Tournal.com
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If you are looking to create a new business in 2018 there are a lot of things you need to think about that are going to have to work for you as a result. The world is perfectly placed for creating a new business right now, and there are a lot of things you can do as a result. Consider the different elements to launching a startup in 2018, and think about what you can do to be more successful.

One of the most important things to bear in mind is the fact that new businesses are forming every day, and you have to give yourself an edge as best you can. This means assessing what your business can do well, along with trying to make the best impression you possibly can. Here are four of the steps you need to take to create a new business right now.

1. Think About Branding

The first thing to do is think about branding, and what you can do to stand out from the crowd. For example, if you head online you will see great examples of a Singapore company stamp, not to mention examples of sticker printing in Singapore. These are great examples of effective and essential branding that you need to make sure you get right in the best way you possibly can.

2. Market Yourself

Marketing your business thoroughly is absolutely essential when it comes to improving the companys prospects you need to make sure you are promoting the business as effectively as you can. There are a lot of things you can do to improve the way you advertise and promote your company, and this is something you have to make sure you do to improve the marketing.

3. Do Things Better

You have to look at the way other businesses are doing things, and focus on improving on the way you can improve that. There is a lot you need to consider when it comes to doing things better than the competition, and this is essential because you have to ensure you are able to stand out and offer something more than your rivals. If you can get this right you should have no problems becoming more successful.

4. Change With the Times

There are a lot of great things you have to keep in mind when it comes to improving the business. It is so important to make sure you change with the times because this is the best way of becoming more successful. So, keep an eye on the market and look at the way society is changing and unfolding, and try to make sure your company keeps up with that.

These are just a few of the things youre going to need to keep in mind when it comes to creating a new business. So, it is crucial to make sure you are focused on improving areas where you can, and giving your company the best chance of starting off on the right foot. There are a lot of things that play a role in this, and you have to make sure you are doing as much as possible to create a new business.
GrowForce Holdings, a Toronto, Canada-based vertically integrated international cannabis platform, closed a C$38m equity capital raise.

Pursuant to the offering, GrowForce issued 7,832,716 brokered subscription receipts exchangeable for common shares at a price of C$3.20 amounting to C$25,064,700. The company also issued 4,115,521 non-brokered subscription receipts at the same price for gross proceeds of approximately C$13,169,700.

The result is a cumulative raise of more than C$38 million.

The funds will be used for capital expenditure related to cultivation expansion, including strategic acquisitions of high quality cannabis assets, and general working capital to execute its growth strategy.

Created and spun-off by Denver, Colorado based MJardin, a cannabis management company, GrowForce is a Canadian-based cannabis platform that operates within Health Canadas Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR). The company owns a majority interest in flagship cannabis facilities operated through Health Canadas ACMPR, with strategic partnerships for operations, proprietary software and training, and project financing.

GrowForces flagship facilities are intended to be operated by MJardin Group, North Americas largest operator of legal cannabis facilities, and financed by Bridging Finance Inc., a Canadian provider of private credit.

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07/08/2018
Klook, a Hong Kong-based travel activity booking platform, raised $200m in Series D funding.

Backers included Sequoia China, TCV, Matrix Partners, Goldman Sachs, Boyu Capital, and an Asia-based sovereign wealth fund and family offices. This new round brings Klooks total financing raised to date to $300m.

Founded in 2014 by Ethan Lin, Eric Gnock Fah and Bernie Xiong, Klook provides people with a website or app to book such experiences as attractions, food, activities or local transportation.

The platform currently offers more than 50,000 activities and services through 5,000 industry partners at 200+ destinations worldwide. Travellers can pay in their home currency and receive tickets on their phones.

Klook has also announced that it has now had $1 billion in gross bookings in 2018 alone.

The new financing will allow the company to launch its in-destination travel services booking platform in the US and Europe, with its expanded offices in London and Amsterdam, and its future offices in the US.

FinSMEs

07/08/2018
Public Investment Fund, Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, has bought a minority stake in Tesla at just below 5 percent, a source familiar with the matter said on Tuesday.

PIF did not immediately respond to a Reuters query for comment, while Tesla declined to comment.

The source declined to be identified because the stake purchase is not public.

PIF, one the world's biggest sovereign wealth funds with $250 billion in assets, also has a stake in Uber as it has identified technology as a key area for investment.

The Financial Times reported the stake purchase earlier.

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Congressman Francis Rooney has sent a letter to the White House calling on the administration to formally declare a State of Emergency for Florida in the water of as pair of toxic algal blooms.

The devastation we are experiencing in Southwest Florida is severely impacting our health, economy and ecology, Rooney said in a prepared statement. Dead sea life, toxic algae, and red tide are crippling our area and although we are finally, thanks to our combined efforts, seeing progress on funding projects that will permanently fix our water quality, these projects will take years to complete. As conditions have worsened, we need to take action now. Declaring a State of Emergency will make a host of funding and resources available that would otherwise not be possible. Our current conditions are every bit as disastrous to us as the recent wildfires are to California and flooding has been to Michigan.
The doodle is released on what would have been Ibn Sina's 1038th birthday

Related Google doodles 10th century Persian scientist

Google is celebrating the great Persian philosopher and physician Ibn Sina, known to the Western world as Avicenna, with a doodle displayed on the search engine's front page in the Middle East and North Africa.

Born in 980, Ibn Sina was one of the most important figures during what is considered the Islamic Golden Age, and whose discoveries and theories have influenced modern medicine and medical philosophy.

His works include over 450 treatises on a variety of subjects, mainly philosophy and medicine. Only 240 of his researches have survived.

"Avicenna was a polymath who clearly thrived in the intellectual and courtly circles," explains the BBC documentary Islam and Science, which focuses on the scientific achievements of Muslim scholars between the 8th and 14th centuries.

Born in Afsana, a village near Bukhara in what is today Uzbekistan, Ibn Sina was a self-taught polymath with a passion for medicine since his teenage years.

He began his interest in the field with a detailed study of Aristotles Metaphysics before he began exploring works of other Greek scholars as well as scholars from other great civilisations including India and China. His knowledge of the foreign cultures' theories was based on the large "translation movement" initiated by the sultans of the era.

In 1025, he completed his Qanun Fel Teb (Canon of Medicine), in which he collected all the knowledge of medicine and medical philosophy that existed at the time and expanded on them with his own theories and approaches to the subject.

Qanun Fel Teb is known for its unique encyclopaedic organisation and focus on details. For instance, it enumerates different kind of headaches and recommends treatments for each. The same applies to numerous other ailments and diseases known at the time. His research combines the scientific approach promoted by the Islamic Golden Age's rulers and courtiers with the philosophy behind many illnesses.

Google explains that "this pioneering study [Qanun Fel Teb] was translated into Latin in the 12th century, and became the predominant text used in European medical courses until the 17th century. The first work to identify contagious diseases such as tuberculosis, to hypothesise that soil and water spread sickness, and to set forth the basics of anatomy, paediatrics, and gynaecology, the Canon is now credited as forming the basis of Western medicine."

Qanun Fel Teb explains the structure of the body and functions of many organs. These theories were largely used until new research in medicine started taking over throughout the 19th century in Europe, especially due to the discovery of bacteria and viruses. However, despite the significant progress in medicine in our age, many theories put forward by Ibn Sina have been proven correct.

His work is undeniably a landmark of Islamic civilisation as it gathered all knowledge of the time and laid the groundwork for further development. "The Canon gave future generations something to rewrite," the BBC programme explains.

For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArts and on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture

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Jim Carrey doesnt plan on letting up on his artistic attack on President Donald Trump anytime soon.

The 56-year-old actor and comedian told reporters that he has no idea if or when he will ever wave the white flag on bashing the president, adding that its a reflex.

Its not a choice  its literally just happening. And I dont know when itll stop, what it will turn into  Its a great way to say something, Carrey said at the 2018 Television Critics Association Summer Press Tour while talking about his new Showtime comedy Kidding.

Ive always got sculptures and paintings going on. Theyre either made of bronze or theyre made of me.

The Golden Globe award-winning star has come under fire about his abstract artwork's insensitive depictions of Donald Trump, Melania Trump and members of Trump's administration.

Carrey wasnt shy about expressing his scorn for Trump and admitted that his displeasure for the president heavily affected his decision to draw cartoons.

Im doing cartoons because I cant just watch this nightmare unfold. I have to make it into something that is at least creative and decent, he stated. Even if its crass at times, its the crass that Im expressing that everyone wants to express but cant necessarily do so in their own lives.

So, when I stick a flag in Trumps a-- its because thats what everyone is seeing  theyre seeing him owned, and I have to express that. And, sometimes thats the most crass way that I can express it because Im done with it. Im done with liars, he said.

Except when I lie, he added jokingly.

When asked if he planned to release any more politically-charged paintings, the Ace Ventura actor sniped back telling the media: I dont plan anything. Its not a choice, its just happening."

Its my reflex to what Im seeing I dont like. So, its just a civilized way of dealing with it, I think. To express it and to kind of get on board with as many voices other as possible that are shouting from the rooftops.

Despite the nature of his artworks, Carrey indicated that he has received support from many people thanking him for his pieces, which he says is worth the backlash.

Ive gotten lots of feedback from a lot of people. I dont know specific organizations or anything like that  just a constant flow of people saying I appreciate it, he said. Im making a public record in a way. You can tweet all you want, but theres something about a picture. Theres something about a creation, you know  that takes it to a whole other level.

He continued: He probably loves them on some level. Im sure its insulting and it probably pissed him off. But at the same time, were dealing with a narcissist, so its not always a straight shot. You can do something thats really horrible to him, but because hes just getting a lot of attention  horrible is alright.
The man who allegedly smashed President Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in California was charged with vandalism on Monday.

Austin Clay, 24, of Glendale, destroyed Trump's star on the iconic Hollywood Boulevard last month and was charged with one count of felony vandalism, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced.

Clay used a pickaxe on July 25 to smash the president's star, which he received in January 2007 for his work as the creator and host of NBC's "The Apprentice," police said.

After allegedly smashing the star, Clay "called police and advised he had vandalized Donald Trump's star and basically called on himself and said, 'See you soon,'" Lt. Karen Leong, of the LAPD, told the Los Angeles Times.

He reportedly turned himself in at the Beverly Hills Police Department an hour later, where LAPD officers picked him up to take him into custody.

Clay faces a maximum sentence of three years in jail if convicted. He was initially booked on suspicion of felony vandalism and his bail was set at $20,000.

James Otis, the man who allegedly smashed Trump's star days before the 2016 election day, told TMZ last month he was going to cover Clay's bail and planned to meet him in person as soon as he was released.

Otis pleaded no contest to the felony, and was sentenced to community labor and ordered to pay $4,000 for the damage.
CNN has been mocked widely for publishing an opinion piece calling for Americans to thank the media the way members of the military are acknowledged because they are both protecting our freedoms and the stakes have never been higher.

University of Notre Dame management professor Joseph Holt wrote the essay headlined, The press isn't the enemy, it's the protector, which was published last week. The ridiculed piece is labeled opinion and notes the views expressed here are solely the author's.

Holt defended CNNs Jim Acosta, who was mocked by Trump supporters at a recent rally. Acosta then asked Press Secretary Sarah Sanders on Thursday to say whether the press is indeed the enemy of the people, as her boss has controversially claimed. Sanders didnt oblige and Acosta stormed out of the briefing. Holt took to CNNs website to defend the networks top White House correspondent.

A real enemy of the American people seeking to undermine our democracy would love nothing more than to shut down the press, Holt wrote before declaring that the press is made up of human beings who sometimes make mistakes.

The Notre Dame professor also wrote that the press at its best is like a guardian angel that caringly and capably protects us from harm.

Holt then went into detail describing an 1882 play called Enemy of the People, but the conclusion of his column became the target of criticism because he compared soldiers to members of the press.

"We thank soldiers for their service because they devote themselves to protecting our freedoms, and we should. But we should also thank the media for the same reason -- especially when the stakes have never been higher."  Joseph Holt

We thank soldiers for their service because they devote themselves to protecting our freedoms, and we should. But we should also thank the media for the same reason -- especially when the stakes have never been higher, Holt wrote.

While the professors final paragraph sent readers flocking to mock it on social media, it appears Holt meant to acknowledge simply that reporters are doing a service with little-to-no recognition. Despite being labeled an opinion piece, the backlash to his over-the top comparison was harsh at times.

The Daily Caller media editor Amber Athey noted that CNN was attacked on social media for publishing the comparison between reporters and soldiers and compiled some of the criticism.

Shame on @CNN. It is disgraceful for any 'news' corporation to engage in this caliber of self-flagellation while minimizing the true sacrifice of our armed forces, Daily Wires Elliot Hamilton wrote.

Pundit Jeremiah Dunleavy IV called Holts take atrocious, while Target Victorys Caleb Hull asked, Why did I read this in Acosta's voice?

Free Beacon reporter Natalie Johnson chimed in, How do you write this and think, Yes, this is good and then submit it through edits where another person thinks, Yes, lets publish this.

When Holt tweeted the piece himself, his followers did not appear to appreciate it. Responses included users asking if he was serious, reporters sarcastically asking to be thanked for their service, and a variety of followers mocking the comparison.

One follower asked, How dare you place @CNN on the level of our service members?

Another user wrote, You can't possibly be equating soldiers dying in the line of duty with members of the press being heartily called out by those that disagree with them. They will live to write or spout off another day. They won't come home from work in a flag draped coffin.

That particular comment got Holts attention, as the professor fired back, I didn't equate them. I said they both protect our freedom.

Not everyone was out for blood after reading the CNN op-ed.

Holts comparison of journalists and the military was very simplistic but clearly didnt mean that the sacrifices they make are the same. His bigger point is that both benefit our freedoms, which is true, Mediaite columnist Joseph Wulfsohn told Fox News.

CNN did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Jennifer Garner and her 12-year-old daughter, Violet, had a scary moment on their vacation!

The 46-year-old actress and her oldest child jetted off to Stockholm, Sweden, to spend some time together before Violet begins middle school in the fall. While there, the mother-daughter duo took a beautiful kayak ride that went a bit off course.

After they paddled too far, Garner realized they were lost, and had to call the kayak rental company to send someone out to rescue them.

"On a pre-middle-school sneak away with my eldest," the mother of three captioned an Instagram pic of her and Violet in the kayak following the ordeal. "Did I get us lost in a kayak? Yes. Did we paddle as hard as we could for 100 hours and end up in a shipping lane? Im afraid so. Did we have to be rescued? Yup. #thesunsetwasabigupside #shenevercomplained #thankyoumattias #welovedyousweden."

The "Camping" star also took to her Instagram Story to thank Mattias -- the man who came to their rescue -- referring to him as "our savior."

The kayak company also documented the incident, calling it "quite an adventure."

"Mattias, one of the champions of the Langholmen kajak team, got a call from Jennifer Garner one evening. She was lost on the waters of Stockholm with her daughter in one of our double kayaks," Langholmen Kajak shared in an Instagram post. "Mattias got into a kayak of his own and started searching for them. Fortunately he found them not too far away and was able to guide them back to our rental. Quite an adventure!  Thank you @jennifer.garner for your visit, we hope to see you soon again!"

Back in July, Garner presented Arthur Ashe Courage Award to sexual abuse survivors at the ESPY Awards. ET caught up with her backstage, and she opened up about how she talks to her kids about tough issues. In addition to Violet, she and her ex-husband, Ben Affleck, have two other children, 6-year-old son Samuel and 9-year-old daughter Seraphina.

"It's so important to find a way to talk to our kids and help them know that they're always safe coming to us, they can tell you anything, anything," Garner said. "I bumbled my way through [a talk about it] the way anyone would, but I think it's just really important to keep the conversation going."
Amid a time of very bad press for Johnny Depp, the stars upcoming movie about the death of rapper Notorious B.I.G., City of Lies, has been pulled from the schedule just a month before it was supposed to hit theaters.

According to Deadline, Depps movie was set to release on Sept. 7, but that will no longer be the case. Global Road, which acquired the films original distributor, Open Road, last summer, has not set a new release date for the picture.

Had it been released next month, it would have coincided with the iconic rapper's 46th birthday. The film, co-starring Forest Whitaker, follows Depp as an LAPD detective named Russell Pool as he attempts to investigate the still unsolved murder of B.I.G. in 1997, just six months after the death of his rival, Tupac Shakur.

The news of the films release being pulled comes at a bad time for Depp, who was recently the subject of a damaging Rolling Stone profile. In addition, a crew member for City of Lies sued Depp alleging that the 55-year-old actor punched him twice. This fueled recent rumors of physical assault that the actor was previously battling with regards to his ex-wife, Amber Heard, who divorced him after just 15 months of marriage.

As The Hollywood Reporter notes, this collection of factors would have made any effort by Depp to promote the upcoming movie nearly impossible without navigating a metaphorical mine field of awkward questions. Its unclear if thats what contributed to City of Lies getting yanked from the schedule, though.

Depp recently avoided questions while promoting a film at the 2018 San Diego Comic Con. Despite concerns about the allegations against him, Warner Bros. is pushing forward with Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. In it, Depp plays the titular villain from the Harry Potter franchise.

Depp was absent from the film's massive Hall H panel until the very end, when he surprised the crowd dressed in character to give a creepy speech. While it was a good piece of promotion for the film, it also ensured that Depp didnt have to field any questions about his personal life or the allegations against him.
ABC News The View finished the 2017-18 TV season with an average of 2.9 million viewers, making it the shows most-watched year since Barbara Walters said goodbye four years ago.

The reliably liberal View regained its place in the pop culture conversation with a panel including Whoopi Goldberg, Joy Behar, Sunny Hostin and Meghan McCain  but many observers feel that one person who's not on the panel, in particular, had much to do with the daytime gabfest success.

NewsBusters' managing editor, Curtis Houck, told Fox News that without a doubt ratings have shot up as a result of the panelists' endless discussions regarding President Trump.

McCain, the shows lone conservative, and the fiery Behar have battled about all things politics on a regular basis, creating must-see TV in the process. Goldberg and Hostin arent exactly fans of the president, either, and the political landscape has given the panel a lot to talk about.

Whether you tune into hate watch, cheer for whatever blurts out from Joy Behar, or see Meghan McCain battling Behar or Whoopi, 'The View' has become prime viewing just like the White House Press Briefing."  NewsBusters managing editor Curtis Houck

Whether you tune into hate watch, cheer for whatever blurts out from Joy Behar, or see Meghan McCain battling Behar or Whoopi, 'The View' has become prime viewing just like the White House press briefing, Houck said. Trump has made shows like this even crazier than before, and thus something people can't help but watch.

Season 21 of the kicked off in September 2017 and concluded last week. The most-watched season since 2012-13 featured several news-making moments, including the panel suggesting that women vote for whichever candidates their husbands chose; Behar apologizing for joking about Vice President Pences Christian faith; various derogatory remarks toward several Republicans; and guest appearances by such vocally anti-Trump figures as comic Kathy Griffin and ESPN's Jemele Hill.

Joe Biden, Elizabeth Warren, Stormy Daniels, James Comey, Sarah Sanders and Anthony Scaramucci were among the political guests to join the show this season, along with the parade of actors and musicians. Last month, Goldberg even got into a heated confrontation with Fox News host Judge Jeanine Pirro.

Season 21 also coincided with the #MeToo movement, which the all-female panel was specifically passionate about.

The episode that most resonated with viewers? It might have been a September appearance by Hillary Clinton, who appeared to discuss her election loss to Trump in 2016.

Political comedian Tim Young told Fox News that The View was basically Clinton's on-screen cheering section to begin with, so her supporters knew where to turn for the echo chamber of 'We dont understand how Trump won.'

Young said that many other left-leaning talk shows still pretend to be balanced, but everyone knows that to expect from The View, which is typically positioned against Trump.

Mediaite columnist Joseph Wulfsohn told Fox News that Trump certainly helped the show, but he thinks the addition of McCain shouldnt go unnoticed.

By far the strongest conservative pundit the show has had in years has brought an honest and often fiery debate to the table, Wulfsohn said.

Paula Faris and Sara Haines were also key members of the shows success during Season 21, but wont return after the monthlong hiatus. Faris is pursuing other interests, while Haines will co-host a new ABC program called GMA Day.

Replacements have not been announced.

The View will return to ABC for its 22nd season on Sept. 4.
Meghan Markle has "politely" declined her invitation to the 2018 Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, according to The Sun.

Sources revealed to the outlet that the new Duchess of Sussex and her husband, Prince Harry, were invited to the annual Hollywood celebration of TV as special guests.

"Show executives and NBC had offered Harry and her an invitation to celebrate with the biggest stars around, meet her showbiz friends and even present an honor," the insider told the publication. "We had hoped Meghan would attend as a way of saying goodbye to her Suits fans and colleagues."

But despite receiving the honorable invite, The Sun reported that the Duke and Duchess "politely turned down" the invitation and that Markle's decision was a "line in the sand" between her former acting career and new life as a member of the British royal family.

Prior to the announcement of the 2018 Emmy Award nominees, it was predicted that Markle could possibly be nominated for her first Emmy for her role as Rachel Zane in "Suits."

In June, a rep for USA Network confirmed to Fox News that the 37-year-olds name was submitted for the Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series."

"Meghan Markle was entered by the awards consultants for the USA Network," a Television Academy spokesperson told Fox News. "They verified that she and/or her reps were aware that the entry was being made and had advised to go ahead and proceed with the submission.

Throughout her career, the new royal has not won any major awards for her "Suits" character nor has the show be nominated for an Emmy.

Markle broke the news that she would be transitioning out of her acting career, revealing she would not be returning for the eighth season of Suits," back in 2017 during the time of her engagement.

Experts previously told Fox News it is expected that Markle will follow in the footsteps of late Hollywood icon Grace Kelly, who had a successful acting career but gave it up to become the Princess of Monaco when she married Prince Rainier in 1956.

Grant Harrold, an etiquette expert who served as a butler to members of the royal family  including Harry and his older brother William  told Fox News Markle will be too busy with her duties as a royal to pursue her acting career.

Royal duties do take up a lot of time with royals working for weeks at a time with very little time off especially with overseas tours, he said.

And with a new life full of royal duties, the duchess even rang in her 37th birthday with a royal event. Markle celebrated her birthday on the arm of her husband at his friend's wedding in the English countryside on Saturday.

While Harry performed his duties as an usher, the birthday girl was snapped smiling outside of the chapel chatting with other wedding guests.

Fox News' Stephanie Nolasco contributed to this report.
Rosie O'Donnell was joined by some of Broadway's biggest stars to lead a sing-along protest against President Trump outside the White House on Monday night.

The liberal comedian spoke to protesters, some clutching signs with the word "Treason" spelled out, before the group broke into a rendition of "America the Beautiful."

The actress told the crowd it was important to make sure their voices were heard so that Trump would know that they were not going away.

The group also sang a rousing version of "A Brand New Day" from "The Wiz."

The trip was organized by Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley, the host and producer of Sirius XM's "On Broadway."

The performers included current and former Broadway cast members from "Wicked," ''Hamilton," ''Phantom of the Opera" and other shows.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Following the news that the West Hollywood City Council has passed a resolution to have President Donald Trumps star removed from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Star Wars actor Mark Hamill is seizing the opportunity to advocate for the late Carrie Fisher to be honored in his place.

Hamill, who has been outspoken about his distaste for the president, took to Twitter shortly after the news broke about Trumps star to call for the City Council to give Fisher his spot.

How about replacing it with someone who really earned it? Like @carriefisher, he wrote.

Fishers co-stars from the famed science fiction franchise, Hamill and Harrison Ford, already have stars with the former receiving his in 2003 and the latter earlier this year. Sadly, despite the 66-year-old stars advocacy, fans shouldnt expect to see a star in Fishers name any time soon.

As The Los Angeles Daily News reports, Fishers sudden death in 2016 complicates her inclusion on the Walk of Fame. Thanks to a not-so-well-known tradition, there is a mandatory mourning period of five years before a departed famous person can be honored with a star. However, the outlet confirmed that Fisher is definitely in the running once that time period is up in 2021.

At the time of her death, fans flocked to a makeshift star on the Walk of Fame where someone wrote Fishers name on a blank star along with the words May the Force be with you always.

Donald Trump was awarded his star in 2007 for his work producing the "Miss Universe" pageant. However, in the wake of numerous acts of vandalism, presumably from people who disagree with his political actions as president, the city council voted to remove the star rather than continue to fix it.

West Hollywood City council unanimously passes resolution asking the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to remove the Donald Trump star on Hollywood Walk of Fame, announced Mayor John Duran on Twitter.

Editor's Note: An earlier version of this story stated that Donald Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was awarded due to his work on "The Apprentice." The star was given in connection to his work on Miss Universe.
The West Hollywood City Council passed a resolution Monday night asking to have President Trump's star removed from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, according to a tweet by the citys mayor.

West Hollywood City council unanimously passes resolution asking the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to remove the Donald Trump star on Hollywood Walk of Fame, announced Mayor John Duran on Twitter.

Trump was awarded his star on the prestigious stretch of Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, Calif. in 2007 during the height of his Apprentice fame, and it has been defaced and vandalized numerous times since he has been in office.

The West Hollywood City Council did not pass the resolution because Donald Trump is a conservative or a Republican. Earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is an honor. When one belittles and attacks minorities, immigrants, Muslims, people with disabilities or women - the honor no longer exists, Mayor Duran told Fox News in a statement.

The resolution will be shared with the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. It's worth noting that the mayor's office has no direct authority over the Walk of Fame and the decision will ultimately be up to the Chamber of Commerce.
A 10-year-old boy who often uses a wheelchair and requires braces on his legs managed to stand for the national anthem at a Tennessee fair on Sunday night.

Avery Price has hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) syndrome, a condition similar to cerebral palsy, which makes it difficult for him to use his legs, Fox 17 reports. Despite the disability, however, Avery said he wanted to show his patriotism at the Putnam County Fair in Cookeville.

I usually sit and put my hand on my heart, but last night I decided to stand  because I like to stand for my country, Avery told Fox 17.

BREASTFEEDING MOM TOLD TO COVER UP, INSTEAD PUTS CLOTH OVER OWN FACE

Both of Averys parents have said they were very proud of their son.

That makes me feel really good, especially [considering] the stuff hes been through, and the fact that he still wanted to do that, thats amazing to me," said Avery's dad Stephen Price, who helped steady his son during the anthem. "Hes a very, very patriotic kid  Hes always been that way."

And not only did Averys patriotic moment touch the hearts of his parents, but it also echoed across the Internet after Leah Norris, a woman sitting nearby, shared footage of the touching scene to Facebook.

A very proud young man. Just goes to show you even a disability can't hold you back in the things you believe in, wrote one commenter.

"Thank you for sharing this very moving video. A lot of very rich professional athletes can learn something from this young man, added another.

INDIANA MAN SURVIVES 'INTERNAL DECAPITATION' YEARS AFTER BEATING BRAIN CANCER

Jenny Leigh, the country artist who performed the national anthem at the fair, called Avery awesome.

Its awesome, its a great display of patriotism, said Leigh. And in my opinion, its a great example of love, not only from him and his dad, but the community as well.

Fox 17 also confirmed that Avery had only recently started attempting to walk after a surgery at a Nashville medical center.
A new mom on vacation with her family in Mexico was told to cover up while breastfeeding her baby  and her creative response has gone viral.

Melanie Dudley, a mother of three from Austin, Texas, was at a restaurant when she started to feed her 4-month-old baby.

I was on vacation in Cabo San Lucas with my entire family and a man asked me to cover myself, she told Yahoo Lifestyle. Im usually discreet but we were seated in the back of the restaurant.

CALIFORNIA MOM CLAIMING EMERGENCY C-SECTION WAS ADMINISTERED WITHOUT ANESTHESIA GIVEN $25 GIFT CARD AS APOLOGY, FIANCE SAYS

So Dudley asked her husband to hand her a cover and instead of covering her chest, she tossed it over her head.

Someone snapped a picture of the strange scene and a family friend, Carol Lockwood, shared it on Facebook.

A friends daughter-in-law was told to cover up while feeding her baby, so she did! Ive never met her, but I think shes AWESOME!!! Lockwood wrote.

She also commented that it was 90 degrees out and extremely humid out at the time.

The photo of Dudley has been received 100,000 likes and shared 181,000 times since it was posted on July 31.

The photo has garnered mixed reactions, with some saying they feel a woman should try to be discreet while breastfeeding in a public space, while others argue that mothers should be free to feed their child anywhere without being called out for it.

NEW JERSEY FISHERMAN WITH FLESH-EATING INFECTION OPTING OUT OF HOSPICE CARE: HE 'WILL CONTINUE TO FIGHT'

This certainly isnt the first time a woman has been called out for breastfeeding in public. In June, an Alabama woman called out a local restaurant owner for trying to cover her up with a dishrag while she breastfed inside the establishment.

Last month, a mother who was breastfeeding at the Richmond International Airport claims a security guard told her it was indecent exposure and that she needed to go into the bathroom the feed her son.
A Chipotle restaurant in Ohio is facing a second lawsuit after 703 people reportedly fell ill after eating at the burrito chain.

The Powell location has shut down after facing complaints from sick customers since July 26, when the outbreak reportedly began.

CHIPOTLE SHUTS OHIO RESTAURANT AFTER REPORTS OF ILLNESS

Delaware County General Health District has been investigating the claims, testing customers for numerous foodborne illnesses like E. coli, salmonella, norovirus, and shigella  all of which came back negative, Dayton Daily News reported. The cause of the outbreak is currently unkown.

Food from the chain is still being tested, Traci Whittaker, a spokeswoman for the health district, told the Dayton Daily.

The Chipotle outpost said they are cooperating with the health department concerning the outbreak.

We acted quickly and closed this single restaurant out of an abundance of caution and we are working with the local health officials to reopen this restaurant as soon as possible, a Chipotle spokeswoman said via email.

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At least two lawsuits have been filed against the restaurant, Dayton Daily reported. One man, Clayton Jones, is seeking $25,000 in damages as he continued medical treatment after consuming food from the restaurant, the publication reported.

This is the first of many lawsuits we will be filing on behalf of local residents who were sickened by contaminated Chipotle food, said attorney Ron Simon, who represents Jones, the Dayton Daily reported.

We have handled hundreds of claims against Chipotle as this is Chipotles seventh food poisoning outbreak in the last 3 years. These lawsuits will force Chipotle to change its ways and make its food safer for everyone not just in Powell, Ohio, but across the United States.
A Maryland woman is blaming her false positive test for opiates on the breakfast she ate hours before giving birth.

Elizabeth Eden was in labor at St. Joseph Medical Center in Towson last spring when doctors told her she tested positive for the drug. The new mother was shocked, especially when staff members told her she was being reported to the state.

"I was in labor. I was sitting in the bed. I was having contractions. I was on a Pitocin drip, and the doctor came in and said, 'You've tested positive for opiates,'" Eden described to WBAL-TV.

KHLOE KARDASHIAN EXPLAINS HER 'PREGNANCY LIPS'

Confused, Eden wasn't sure what would have caused the false positive  but then she recalled the poppy seed bagel she had eaten earlier that day. Eden had learned in a school health class that eating poppy seeds could cause a false positive.

"I said, 'Well, can you test me again? And I ate a poppy seed bagel this morning for breakfast,' and she said, 'No, you've been reported to the state,'" Eden told the news station.

For years, experts have confirmed that poppy seeds can register as opiates in urine samples, as long as they were eaten within 48 hours of the test.

"While poppy seeds dont actually contain morphine, the seeds can become coated by, or absorb, opium extract during harvesting," the United States Department of Agriculture explains on its website. "Opium is the milky substance that is extracted along with the poppy seeds from the seed pod of the opium poppy after all the petals have fallen off."

IS 'PREGNANCY BRAIN' REAL?

Therefore, it's possible for people to have a false positive test for the drug after consuming poppy seed-covered pasteries.

The test result meant Eden's daughter had to stay in the hospital for five days in April while her mother was assigned a case worker. Eventually, after Eden explained the situation, the case worker closed the case.

The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment writes that until food manufacturers reduce morphine levels in poppy seeds, it advises against excessive consumption, particularly during pregnancy.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Public health officials are confirming that a contagious norovirus was not caused by an outbreak of cyclosporiasis contamination in North Carolina linked to McDonald's salads.

Transylvania Times reported that updated lab tests have ruled out norovirus as the cause of over 200 people falling ill last week in the Brevard area.

According to Food Safety News, many of the sick individuals claimed to have recently consumed food or drink from the fast-food chains location in at 251 Asheville Hwy. in Brevard.

BOY IN WHEELCHAIR PULLS HIMSELF TO FEET FOR NATIONAL ANTHEM AT TENNESSEE FAIR

Transylvania Public Health (TPH) has received confirmatory laboratory tests from the N.C. State Laboratory of Public Health, TPH spokesperson Tara Rybka told the outlet on August 3.

Of those people who were tested by their medical providers, a majority was positive for norovirus. We believe this outbreak was caused by being exposed to a highly contagious virus in a public place.



In recent weeks, nearly 400 people across 15 states have fallen ill after eating salads from McDonalds. Days ago, the Food and Drug Administration confirmed that the outbreak was traced to the presence of Cyclospora in an unused package of Fresh Express salad mix distributed to the fast-food chain in late July.

Nevertheless, the TPH officials did not find that to be the cause in the case of the Brevard area.

People get norovirus from direct contact with an infected person, consuming food or water that has been contaminated with norovirus or touching contaminated surfaces and then putting your unwashed hands in your mouth, Rybka told the Transylvania Times.

She further shared that the organization worked with the Transylvania Regional Hospital to identify the source, with many locals taking to social media to accuse the McDonalds at 251 Asheville Hwy. in Brevard of serving food that led to the outbreak.

Revealing that while TRH did take the messages seriously to investigate the whole picture, Rybka told Food Safety News that they believe the norovirus outbreak stemmed from human contamination.

Based on our current evidence, we believe it was due to human contamination rather than any one particular food or drink item, she told the outlet. She did not divulge whether or not the norovirus contamination was traced to any employees at the McDonalds.

BREASTFEEDING MOM TOLD TO COVER UP, INSTEAD PUTS CLOTH OVER OWN FACE

As noted by Food Safety News, the highly contagious norovirus can easily contaminate foods, beverages, surfaces such as counters, food containers and utensils.

Symptons of the norovirus include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, as well as fever, headaches and body aches.

The Brevard McDonalds voluntarily closed to take proactive measures last Tuesday evening and reopened again on Friday.

Fox News' Alexandria Hein contributed to this report.
Makenzie Noland celebrated her upcoming college graduation by posing in her cap and stole with her good friend "Big Tex"  a nearly 14-foot-long alligator that lives in a wildlife sanctuary in Beaumont, Texas.

The soon-to-be Texas A&M University grad has been living at Gator Country for the past three months as she interns with the organization. During her time at the wildlife rescue, Noland has bonded with many of the 370 alligators on site, specifically Tex.

Over the past several months, Noland has been training with Tex  under the careful supervision of alligator experts.

"Tex is the one who let me into his pond. He does pick favorites, and I'm honored he likes me enough to let me get in there and play with him every day," Noland, 21, told Fox News.

GIANT ALLIGATOR IN SOUTH CAROLINA ATTEMPTS TO SCALE FENCE TO ESCAPE TRAPPERS: 'THIS IS CRAZY'

Noland likens the gentle giant to a "puppy," as he often follows commands in order to get treats.

"Whenever you're training a puppy, you commend them for sitting down and give them a treat," Noland explained. "When I'm telling Tex to 'come here' using a hand motion I will reward him, tickle his nose and toss food in his mouth."

Noland's close bond with Tex influenced her decision to feature him in her graduation pictures. After all, the wildlife ecology major wanted to showcase her passion for animals  gators in particular.

"Every single time I get in the water with him I realize how huge of a creaturen he is. He's a real life dinosaur," Noland said, adding that she was honored to get the opportunity to work with him.

SHARKS, CROCODILE SPOTTED FEASTING ON WHALE IN 'RARE' DRONE VIDEO

On Friday, Noland posed for several photos with the gator and later shared them on Facebook with friends. To her surprise, the pictures went viral, garnering nearly 5,000 shares over the course of just three days.

Reactions to the photos  both positive and negative  have inspired Noland to continue her mission to educate the public.

"These alligators are a product of people feeding them," Noland said, explaining that the alligators taken in by the wildlife sanctuary were considered "nuisance" gators. "We'd rather leave them in their natural habitat."

According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, it is illegal to feed wild alligators and could result in a fine as high as $500.

Some have criticized Noland for posting the pictures, calling the act dangerous and questioning why she would put her life in danger. But Noland wants to assure everyone that she always follows safety guidelines set out by the park and would never purposely put herself in any danger.

"I would never do anything to risk my own life. I'm doing things supervised. I'm trained," she said. "Animals can react differently to different situations. We look at all that behavior. If the animals aren't working well, then we're getting out of the water and letting them be."
Toys for Tots is scrambling to figure out how it will deliver toys to children across the country as Amtrak announced it will no longer be offering its services to transport the goods.

Amtrak said late last week that the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve charitable program does not fit with the new policies concerning charter trains.

President and CEO of Toys for Tots, retired Lieutenant General Pete Osman, described Tuesday morning on "Fox and Friends" just how much Toys for Tots means for millions across the country.

Toys for Tots has been a Marine Corps program for the past 70 years. We have been able to distribute 530 million toys to about 220 million less fortunate children all across the county, Osman told Janice Dean.

BRITISH AIRWAYS EMPLOYEE CLAIMS HE WAS FIRED FOR HIS MAN BUN

Osman also expressed surprise at this "this turn of events, because Amtrak has been doing a great job working with Toys for Tots for the past six years.

Osman added that everyone at Toys for Tots could be not be more appreciative of what Amtrak has done for them the past few years, and they will miss their longtime partner.

Amtrak initially announced its decision in a statement late last week.

Consistent with Amtraks mandate to provide efficient, safe, and effective intercity passenger rail transportation, Amtrak has established a new policy for the operation of charter trains.

Amtrak will continue to proudly support the Toys for Tots program through the collection of toys at participating stations.

BOY IN WHEELCHAIR PULLS HIMSELF TO FEET FOR NATIONAL ANTHEM AT TENNESSEE FAIR

With the shutdown of Toys R Us, this is the second major blow to Toys for Tots this year, as Toys R Us was a major corporate sponsor  it donated between $4 million and $6 million per year to the charity.

But Osman said he is hopeful that other corporate sponsors will be stepping up. "There will be other toy companies that will be able to fill the void and were confident that well make it work. Thats all there is to it.
An Amish Michigan man is jumping into the ride-sharing business  even without a car or smartphone.

For $5, Timothy Hochstedler will chauffeur people around Colon, Mich., with his horse and buggy.

Uber is a cool thing, Hochstedler told WWMT-TV. Every single year something new comes in, and Uber is hot right now so we have the Amish Uber.

Aside from getting passengers to their destinations, Hochstedler will also converse with customers and show them Colon.

And his horse, Walker, enjoys the job, too. Hochstedler maintains that the driving power behind his vehicle is a peoples horse.

OHIO AMISH MAN ARRESTED FOR OPERATING VEHICLE WHILE UNDER THE INFLUENCE

Potential riders wont be able to hail Hochstedlers cab via a cell phone app. Those in the southern Michigan town will have to look for the buggy with a handwritten white sign on the side advertising his services. Hes also got a photo-shopped version of Ubers logo on the side of his carriage that includes the outline of a horse and buggy.

I dont think theres Uber down here so its pretty cool, Becky Phelps, an Amish Uber customer, told WWMT-TV. It gives people an option that cant drive or dont want to drive or shouldnt drive.

As WWMT-TV pointed out, Hochstedler doesnt work for the actual Uber company.

Colon is about 80 miles south of Grand Rapids.
One Virginia woman is suing JC Penney for $4.5 million over allegations that she suffered hair loss and scalp burns from a bleaching treatment at one of the retailers in-store salons.

According to her attorney, the experience was extremely traumatic and she will now need hair transplants to cover bald patches that developed after the incident.

The Virginian-Pilot reported that Giselle Steinhausen filed suit in federal court against J.C. Penney Corp. for the charges, which reportedly occurred during an August 2017 appointment for a dye job at the Chesapeake Square Mall.

According to the services menu for the Chesapeake Square Salon, double-process hair color treatments begin at $80.

The suit said an unnamed employee improperly used a bleaching agent on Steinhausen's hair and left it on for an "extended period of time." Later, that employee and others worked together to administer additional hair treatments to correct what had gone wrong.

Steinhausen claims she suffered extensive damage including hair loss and scalp burns.

SALON WORKERS RECORDED HITTING CUSTOMER WITH BROOM AFTER BOTCHED WAX

"It went horribly bad," Kevin Sharp, Steinhausen's attorney, told the Virginian-Pilot. "Her hair was essentially white. And then they did it again. It's just unbelievable."

Sharp further divulged that "clumps of hair [kept] coming out for weeks afterwards."

"This has been extremely traumatic for her," he added. "She's going to have to deal with this for a long, long time."

Meanwhile, an attorney and spokeswoman for JC Penney declined to comment to the Associated Press.

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In court documents, however, the department store has denied wrongdoing. Among other things, defense attorneys plan to argue at trial that Steinhausen's negligence contributed to her injuries and that she assumed some risk when she got the hair treatment.

The Virginian-Pilot notes that the lawsuit, which includes claims of negligence, gross negligence and negligent hiring and retention, was moved to federal court last week after being initially filed in in Chesapeake Circuit Court.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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The much-discussed Supreme Court decision in the case of Janus v. AFSCME (American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees) is now just over a month old, but already we see states reacting to its important central holding. At its core, the high court ruling simply held that no money can be taken from a state or local government employees paycheck and transferred to a union unless that employee first affirmatively consents.

Many refer to this new requirement as opt-in. The reasoning behind the employees decision is as basic as the Supreme Courts holding: The First Amendment does not allow any governmental entity to force an individual to fund speech unless he or she first agrees to that funding.

Teachers are the largest category of employees affected by the Janus decision. The biggest impacts of the high court ruling could be to allow school districts to break out of a decades-old collective bargaining mindset, and to encourage a new spirit of professionalism in the teaching profession.

However, as I argued in a Fox News op-ed when the decision was issued, those outcomes are not self-executing. The outcomes depend upon how state and local policymakers and teachers react. Unfortunately, some of the first state reactions harken back to days when states purposely resisted the realization of individual rights after the Supreme Court had identified violations of those rights.



State leaders should embrace the Supreme Courts decision and create solid procedures and rules that implement the new opt-in requirement and fill in the operational details.

Sadly, this nation has suffered through similar chapters of overt state-based resistance to our Supreme Courts constitutional holdings, such as when some stood in the schoolhouse door defying clear constitutional rights the court had articulated requiring school desegregation.

It might behoove todays practitioners of this resistance strategy to consider how their intellectual forefathers are viewed by posterity.

Take Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh, for example, who recently told all affected employees that Janus decision essentially does not mean anything. He wrote: In other words, the decision in Janus does not alter any pre-existing obligation of a public employer to deduct dues from union members.

That is patent nonsense. If that really was the case, why would the union leadership be so upset?

The reality is that the Janus ruling articulated a right for employees that had long been violated and created the new opt-in test that must be met before a governmental body can transfer part of an employees pay to a union.

The Supreme Court held that the opt-in must be freely given and shown by clear and compelling evidence. It said that opt-in cannot be presumed. This is new territory for all states and for all employees of state and local governments, including school districts.

Maryland Attorney General Frosh  and similarly minded state leaders in New Jersey, Rhode Island and a host of other states advancing these nullification strategies  may follow that strategy to the bitter end. There is a better way forward.

State leaders should embrace the Supreme Courts decision and create solid procedures and rules that implement the new opt-in requirement and fill in the operational details.

The detailed procedures may differ from state to state. Thats good, so long as the fundamental rules and reasoning of the Janus decision are respected. The Janus ruling does not mean unions are going away. Reasonable union leaders  as much as employees  should welcome a clear set of rules and procedures to operate under going forward.

The alternative to this kind of reasoned response is another decade of litigation across the states, as some local unions and school districts struggle in good faith to figure out what the rules are. This would involve some states and school districts not acting in good faith and attempting to undermine the Supreme Courts holding, thinking the only punishment is to be ordered to stop the violations after years of litigation and appeals.

Now is the time for commonsense state policymakers to lead on the reasonable course. Embrace the rightful balance between individual free speech and labor association that the Supreme Court has articulated. State leaders should do that by creating sensible, balanced rules and procedures to fairly implement this Supreme Court decision.
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Thankfully, a heroic citizen with a permit to legally carry a concealed handgun was able to save countless lives in Florida Saturday when he shot a gunman who opened fire on a back-to-school event attended by over 150 students at a park in Titusville, Florida.

The media rarely give national news coverage to incidents like this, but responsible gun owners have stepped forward in this way many times before to save lives. In fact, concealed handgun permit holders have prevented dozens of mass public shootings just in recent years, while receiving only brief mentions in local news coverage.

Fortunately, only the attacker was injured in Titusville. The gun permit holder shot him in the head to keep the attacker from shooting any children and adults in the park. Neither the permit holder nor the attacker have been identified so far by police. The attacker suffered life-threatening injuries and remains hospitalized.

The presence of an armed good guy prevented the Titusville shooting from turning into a tragedy like school shooting in Parkland, Florida in February.

Law enforcement officers cannot be everywhere, so the presence of armed citizens is vital to provide an instant response to attackers.

Based on the information that we've gathered, said Titusville Police Sgt. William Amos, this person stepped in and saved a lot of people's lives.

The police responded within minutes, but the gun permit holder was right there the moment the attack started, enabling him to stop the attacker almost immediately. Law enforcement officers cannot be everywhere, so the presence of armed citizens is vital to provide an instant response to attackers.

With over 1.7 million concealed handgun permit holders, Florida sees more than its share of defensive gun uses.

Late last November, an employee with a concealed handgun permit stopped a mass public shooting at an auto repair shop in Rockledge, Florida.

The attacker, armed with a .45-caliber handgun and multiple magazines, killed one person and severely wounded another in the repair shops parking lot. The local television station quoted the police saying that the attack could have been even worse if not for the "good Samaritan.

This business was packed today with customers and employees, noted Karen Parks, a reporter at the scene.

In one interesting case in June, police say 36-year-old Christopher Raymond Hill robbed a Jacksonville Walmart and then tried to carjack someone's car at knifepoint, slashing the man on his arms and legs.

Fortunately, the driver had his permitted concealed handgun with him, and Hill tried carjack another vehicle, according to police. But that driver also had her gun. Hill then gave up, and hid in the restroom of a nearby store until police arrived, authorities said.

Similarly, in another state in late May, two gun permit holders stopped an attack at a restaurant in Oklahoma City. Juan Carolos Nazario fired the fatal shots at the shooter.

I just did what I had to do. Im very glad no innocent lives were taken but ultimately, there was a life taken, Nazario said. USA Today credited him with "a restaurant full of innocent lives potentially saved.

PoliceOne sometimes surveys its 450,000 members  380,000 active-duty and 70,000 retired law enforcement officers. A March 2013 survey by the group found 86 percent of members believing that casualties from mass public school shootings (such as the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School attack in Connecticut) could be reduced or avoided altogether if citizens had carried permitted concealed handguns in those places.

Also in the survey, 77 percent of the law enforcement officers supported arming teachers and/or school administrators who volunteer to carry at their school. No other policy to protect children and school staff had such widespread support.

Schools in 21 states allow teachers and staff to carry permitted concealed handguns, and there haven't been any noticeable problems. With good Samaritans stopping so many mass public shootings around the country, allowing permitted teachers to carry should be a no-brainer.

Police know how incredibly law-abiding permit holders are, and they realize the limitations of uniformed guards.

In any attack, uniformed guards and law enforcement officers are the first target. Killers will try to take out them out in the hopes of then having free rein to kill others. In places where concealed carry is prohibited, the absence of police means a soft target.

Other surveys of police show similar overwhelming support for allowing Americans to carry concealed handguns.

Police know how important their own work is to stopping crime, but they also understand that they almost always arrive at crime scenes after a crime has occurred. Seconds matter when someone fires into a crowd, such as the one that gathered at the back-to-school rally in Titusville on Saturday.

Many children were saved Saturday. Lets hope that permit holders will soon be protecting more children.
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President Trumps decision to slap what he called the most biting sanctions ever on Iran on Tuesday was a positive and necessary step to put pressure on the Islamic Republics corrupt regime that deprives its citizens of basic human rights, supports terrorism, fights in support of brutal Syrian dictator Bashar Assad, and calls for death to the U.S. and Israel.

And President Trump has promised to toughen sanctions even further on Nov. 5, targeting Irans oil industry.

National Security Adviser John Bolton told Fox News on Tuesday: "We want to see a much broader retreat by Iran from their support for international terrorism, their belligerent military activity in the Middle East, and their ballistic missile, nuclear-related programs.

The Iranian people are sick and tired of their repressive leaders who rule with an iron fist and the religious police who enforce a strict Islamist code. Protests by citizens in Iran keep getting bigger and more widespread and the regime is getting more violent in trying to stop them. Citizens refuse to accept a government that can spend billions of dollars supporting terrorism, but cant feed its own citizens.

Unless Irans rulers really feel the pain of sanctions themselves, they will just apply more pain to the protesters.

The Iranian economy is already a shambles and the Iranian currency is in freefall, dropping in value daily  it has lost about half its value since President Trump wisely announced in May that the U.S. would withdraw from the deeply flawed deal that was supposed to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

The new U.S. economic sanctions that President Trump imposed Tuesday are specifically designed to hurt the Iranian regimes leaders, their businesses and their ability to operate Iran as a terror state. Unfortunately the Iranian people will suffer as well  thats unavoidable  but they will know their oppressive rulers are hurting as well.

The American government continues to talk about how reform is badly needed in Iran. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said it will require enormous change by the Iranian government to get the U.S. to remove the sanctions. Americas goal is to change the behavior of the Iranian regime both externally and internally.

The street protests by the Iranian people have sent as clear a message that the Islamist fundamentalist government does not represent the will of the people. Its hard to see how the regime will ever be able to win back the trust of its citizens after decades of misrule and human rights violations.

While the new sanctions will certainly ratchet up the pressure on the Iranian government, there is no guarantee the regime will take steps for positive change. Irans leaders have continued to create problems in the region by having their proxies, the Houthis in Yemen, shoot missiles at passing ships. This caused Saudi Arabia to temporarily suspend oil shipments. That is an intolerable situation and one of the problems that sanctions on Iran are designed to stop.

The people of Iran want a change to the miserable hand theyve been dealt. The Securities Studies Group, which I head, just published a report last week based on sources inside the country discussing what the protests are about and asking what happens next.

Our report states: The main issues (sparking protests) are economic yet the main chants are death to the dictator and death to Rouhani. The grievances are increasing daily yet there is no prospect for their betterment, the latter only creates more frustration.  The protests have become more like a channel through which various groups of people vent their frustration but there is no roadmap to what to do afterwards. In other words, it is protesting for the sake of protesting.

While the new U.S. sanctions are a great step, the Trump administration needs to also continue and even increase support for Iranian dissident groups.

As my colleague David Reaboi and Iranian activist Saghar Erica Kasraie wrote in The Federalist: Thirty-nine years after the birth of the theocratic Shia regime, the president (Trump) reached out to the people of Iran, telling them: The future of Iran belongs to its people. They are the rightful heirs to a rich culture and an ancient land. And they deserve a nation that does justice to their dreams, honor to their history, and glory to God.

The Federalist article goes on to state: Young democracy activists need to hear this message on their own channels. U.S. government information, analysis, and policy branches need native Farsi speakers reading these and other social media daily, giving feedback and recommendations to policymakers.

Irans dictatorial rulers are the most malevolent force in the Middle East. Simply stopping support for terrorist groups like Hamas and supplying military hardware to proxy armies like Hezbollah would make the region much more peaceful.

The Iranian regimes push to become the dominant regional power and to create a land bridge from Iran to the Mediterranean by establishing a permanent presence in Syria must never be allowed to happen. Ending Iranian aggression, support for terrorism, and threats to the U.S. and Israel is in the best interests of everyone  especially the people of Iran.

The Iranian government is now under growing pressure from both sanctions and protests that show no sign of slowing. What happens next is still up in the air.

But its clear that if the manpower, time and treasure Iran now devotes to malign activities were instead focused on internal growth, Iran could once again be a vital economy and see the return of a vibrant Persian culture.

The Islamic Republic of Iran has imposed tyrannical and oppressive rule on a great people for far too long. It is time to restore human rights to the Iranian people and let them live freely and flourish.
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The nations largest LGBT organization, the Human Rights Campaign, has unsurprisingly come out swinging in opposition to Senate confirmation of Judge Brett Kavanaugh, President Trumps nominee to fill a vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court.

The group is using a specious cherry-picked report as the backbone of its opposition to Kavanaugh, who currently serves as a judge on the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia.

The HRC disapproval of Kavanaugh should raise precisely zero eyebrows. Following the 2016 elections, the organization has all but become an official wing of the Democratic Party and the tedious Resistance.

What is astonishing is that in the dozen pages issued by the HRC painting Kavanaugh as an enemy of the LGBT community, there is not a single mention of anything he has done, said, or written that could be even remotely construed as anti-LGBT.

In fact, there are a number of reasons LGBT Americans should take heart in Kavanaughs nomination and his likely confirmation as the next associate justice of nations highest court.

In 2003, while on the staff of President George W. Bush, Kavanaugh met with a group of over 200 gay men as part of a Log Cabin Republicans event at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building  hardly the mark of a raging homophobe jurist.

As a clerk for Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy  whose recent retirement created a vacancy Kavanaugh has been nominated to fill  Kavanaugh served the most quantifiably pro-gay Supreme Court justice in the history of the United States.

No one authored more pro-gay opinions  with more far-reaching consequences  than Kennedy. The concurrence of another former Kennedy clerk, Justice Neil Gorsuch, in the Masterpiece Cakeshop decision this year affirmed that our society has come to the recognition that gay persons and gay couples cannot be treated as social outcasts or as inferior in dignity and worth.

That could well lead one to conclude that Kennedys sympathy to the challenges of LGBT Americans was imparted to his clerks.

In the very pages of the HRC critique of Kavanaughs record is a remarkable admission: During his 12 years on the D.C. Circuit, he did not substantively address any of the Supreme Courts seminal LGBTQ decisions.

In the absence of anything substantive or explicit to condemn, as Buzzfeed notes, the report instead zeroes in on concerns about Kavanaughs views on the Affordable Care Act, voter ID laws, and federal agency power, as well as his rulings in employment discrimination cases.

The rollout of the HRC Kavanaugh file includes an assertion that a thorough review of Kavanaughs record on LGBTQ issues, during his time at the White House in particular, will be crucial to the nomination process.

On this point I agree. But the very title of the report  Brett M. Kavanaugh: Wrong for LGBTQ People. Wrong for the Supreme Court  shows that the findings of this analysis were fait accompli before a single file from the Kavanaugh archives was cracked.

None of this is surprising. The motley assemblage in front of the Supreme Court on the night Kavanaugh was nominated was a mad-libs protest confirming that anyone nominated by President Trump would be unacceptable to the left  LGBT or otherwise.

The HRC report on Kavanaugh is simply a reverse engineering of the conclusion that LGBT Democrats came to the moment Kennedy announced his retirement in June.

To be sure, serious questions remain regarding Kavanaughs perspective on LGBT legal issues currently percolating through the federal courts, but sussing out those answers is the purpose of Senate confirmation hearings.

Opposing a Kavanaugh confirmation before even hearing out the nominee is an affront to our countrys sacred democratic process and the deference a judge with an undeniably accomplished career deserves.

Brett Kavanaugh deserves a full hearing by the Senate Judiciary Committee. The LGBT community owes him an open mind.
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The big tech giants are moving fast against the political right, the libertarian radicals, and those walking away from the Democrat Party in the United States. The same applies in my country, the United Kingdom, too.

Over the weekend we saw Candace Owens, a strong, young, black woman suspended from Twitter for daring to point out the allegedly algorithmic hypocrisy of Twitter by replacing the word white with Jewish in a series of tweets modeled on those by New York Times editor Sarah Jeong.

While the social media giant quickly backtracked, the same cannot be said for its treatment of right-wingers or globalist opponents in other regards.

Recently we discovered that activists, politicians, and even political party leaders were being shadow banned by Twitter -- meaning that their accounts or their tweets were not immediately searchable, unlike those of their left-wing counterparts.

Twitters response to the allegation was the bizarre statement: "People are asking us if we shadow ban. We do not followed by: You are always able to see the tweets from accounts you follow (although you may have to do more work to find them, like go directly to their profile)."

If thats not shadow banning, I dont know what is.

Are we going to stand idly by as friends, allies, or even political enemies have their speech curtailed or their lives threatened by these modern publishers? Or are we going to demand that they can only have it one way or another?

And while many on the libertarian right and within the conservative movement have their issues with Alex Jones and InfoWars, this weeks announcement by YouTube, Facebook, Apple, and Spotify represents a concerted effort of proscription and censorship that could just as soon see any of us confined to the dustbin of social media history.

These platforms that claim to be open and in favor of free speech are now routinely targeting -- whether by human intervention or not -- the views and expressions of conservatives and anti-globalists.

This is why they no longer even fit the bill of platforms. They are publishers in the same way we regard news outlets as publishers. They may use more machine learning and automation, but their systems clearly take editorial positions. We need to hold them to account in the same way we do any other publisher.

Just as you cannot libel someone on the pages of the Wall Street Journal, if the Silicon Valley cartel wants to act like a publisher, they should have to assume the same burden.

If someone -- anyone -- publicly defames me on Twitter, why isnt Twitter accountable for publishing damaging untruths?

If the glorification of terrorism, or calls to violence are spread on Facebook or YouTube -- perhaps we need to ensure they, as any book publisher would be for instance, are liable for such content?

After all, in banning people like Jones, or even more farcically, Candace Owens, arent these new media publishers trying to tell us that they can, do, and will take firm action against this sort of thing? Unless theyre admitting it is mercurial, or that there may be double standards at play, then we should expect no less of Antifa-linked accounts, or ISIS-linked accounts, or even accounts belonging to left-wing activists (who often masquerade as journalists) who routinely libel public figures on the right, or worse, cause them to be harassed and attacked.

The conversation surrounding whether or not these utilities are private companies who can make their own decisions is becoming irrelevant as they tighten their stranglehold on public discourse.

The most avowed First Amendment, free speech defenders must surely be on the side of those -- like me -- who believe it is not within the gift of corporations to decide what is acceptable speech or not, especially when they harvest and sell data about all of us en masse as the underlying business model.

This is no longer up to them. It is up to us. Are we going to stand idly by as friends, allies, or even political enemies have their speech curtailed or their lives threatened by these modern publishers? Or are we going to demand that they can only have it one way or another?

That they cannot profess to be neutral, open platforms while being illiberal, dictatorial, and hiding behind the visage of a private corporation (which are more often than not in bed with governments around the world at the very highest levels).

This isnt capitalism. Its corporatism.

This isnt liberal democracy as they keep pretending.

Its autocracy.

Thats why I believe we urgently need to prosecute this issue in the public square and campaign for a social media bill of rights in our respective countries. And for those that dont take issue with the latest censorship of right-wingers by big social media -- unless we take a stand now, who knows where it could end.
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Border security and illegal immigration continue to be among the most divisive issues our nation faces  and at times it seems like Democrats and Republicans will never agree on what to do. But in 2013 the U.S. Senate passed a bill that, though it died in the House, could serve as a model for effective immigration legislation that might pass and be signed into law  if all sides are willing to make reasonable compromises.

The 2013 bipartisan bill would have provided $46 billion for border security improvements. Thats nearly double the $25 billion President Trump is now pressing for to build the wall on our border with Mexico.

Build that wall, build that wall, build that wall, President Trumps ardent supporters chanted Saturday night at a campaign rally in Lewis Center, Ohio, where the president campaigned for a Republican U.S. House candidate running in a special election Tuesday.

The president told the crowd that he will make sure the wall along our border with Mexico is built, to fulfill a promise he made repeatedly during his own campaign in the 2016 presidential race. He is clearly determined to get funding for the wall as one of his top priorities.

Immigrants crossing our border with Mexico would have covered much of the expense of building the wall under the 2013 legislation because they would each be charged $2,000 in fines, paid gradually, to earn permanent legal status.

But President Trump upset many of his fellow Republicans in Congress, who are generally supportive of his get-tough crackdown on illegal immigration, when he tweeted July 29: I would be willing to shut down government if the Democrats do not give us the votes for Border Security, which includes the Wall! Must get rid of Lottery, Catch & Release etc. and finally go to system of Immigration based on MERIT! We need great people coming into our Country!

The threat of a government shutdown is certainly something many Republican members of Congress would rather avoid, since they would likely be held politically responsible in the Nov. 6 midterm elections.

But fortunately, if congressional Republicans and the president are willing to practice the art of the deal, reviving the 2013 Senate bill would give them a proven way forward  one that would fund border security, end the diversity visa lottery, and shift to a merit-based immigration system with the support of a substantial number of Democratic votes in Congress.

Immigrants crossing our border with Mexico  who comprise a slight majority of the roughly 11 million immigrants in the U.S. unlawfully  would have covered much of the expense of building the wall under the 2013 legislation because they would each be charged $2,000 in fines, paid gradually, to earn permanent legal status.

Far from the free grace of amnesty, the 2013 bill required those who had either crossed our border or overstayed a visa illegally to make amends. The legislation also provided protection for immigrants brought to the U.S. in violation of the law as children  the Dreamers, who President Trump has said include some absolutely incredible kids who should have a pathway to citizenship.

And, of course, under the legislation any immigrant with serious criminal convictions would be denied any chance to stay here with legal status.

The 2013 bill would have ended the diversity visa lottery altogether and terminated certain family reunification visas, including for siblings of U.S. citizens and for their married children older than 31.

By eliminating these visas and significantly increasing the number of visas for immigrant workers who could meet key needs in the U.S. labor market, the legislation sought to dramatically shift the availability of visas toward the merit-based process President Trump has praised.

Many in President Trumps evangelical base would support such a move. Most evangelicals tell pollsters they support a path to citizenship for the undocumented, paired with border security improvements. A mere 16 percent of evangelicals are opposed.

Every Democrat in the Senate voted for this bill five years ago, joined by a significant number of Republicans. Certainly, many Democrats disliked particular elements of the bill, including what they viewed as unnecessary spending on border security and eliminating certain visa categories. But they were willing to accept these provisions in exchange for an earned legalization program.

Some wonder if Democrats would take the same deal today, allowing President Trump to simultaneously fulfill several key campaign pledges to his base and accomplish something Latino voters have seen as a priority for decades, but which both President George W. Bush and President Obama failed to make happen.

Indeed, when President Bush last pushed a similar immigration deal, some Senate Democrats inserted poison-pill amendments that helped kill a carefully crafted agreement, denying Bush a key legislative victory.

Its possible such partisan brinksmanship would re-emerge if President Trump were to propose something along the lines of the Senates 2013 bipartisan deal today  but he should at least call the Democrats bluff.

There is, however, significant evidence that the Democrats would be willing to agree to the compromise legislation they supported five years ago  but the presidents best interests are continually sabotaged from within.

All but three Senate Democrats already voted for $25 billion for a border wall last February in exchange for a path to citizenship for Dreamers. But the bill failed when congressional Republicans were scared away by a presidential veto threat, courtesy of White House Domestic Policy Adviser Stephen Miller.

Miller, who advocates cutting legal immigration in half, urged President Trump to reject the deal because it did not include elimination of family reunification visas and the diversity visa lottery.

If President Trump is personally committed to cutting legal immigration and deporting all undocumented immigrants, there is simply no deal to be had, at least with this Congress. But if he truly is opposed to a net reduction in legal immigrant visas  as he explicitly stated last year  he needs to take the reins and ignore the staffers who have torpedoed congressional negotiations.

Many in President Trumps evangelical base would support such a move. Thousands of evangelical pastors have affirmed an Evangelical Statement of Principles for Immigration Reform very consistent with the 2013 Senate bill, and most evangelicals tell pollsters they support a path to citizenship for the undocumented, paired with border security improvements. A mere 16 percent of evangelicals are opposed.

The presidents fellow business leaders are on board as well. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce strongly supported the 2013 effort, because it would be enormously beneficial to the economy. The Congressional Budget Office estimated that, over the course of 20 years, the bill would reduce federal deficits by about $900 billion, raise Americans wages by 0.5 percent and increase the nations gross domestic product by more than 5 percent.

We now have two options in front of us. If the president goes with the status quo, well see yet another federal government shutdown  a move that could cost President Trump the House and Senate majorities in the November elections that he needs to govern effectively.

But if President Trump brings his famous deal-making skills into play, he can solve a problem that his predecessors have been unable to solve. That would give him something worth tweeting about.
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If you were at Jamestownthe tiny English settlement on the banks of the James River in Virginia399 years ago this week, you probably would have been aware that something unusual was happening.

Over in the rough-hewn, thatch-roofed church building, 22 duly elected settlers, six councilors, and their newly arrived governor, all white males, were braving the intense summer heat to attend the first meeting of the general Assemblie. A new English charter a year earlier had authorized formation of this first representative assembly in the dozen-year-old colony, and the new governor, Sir George Yeardley, had seen to the charters implementation.

It was the beginning of representative democracy in America, the forerunner of our Congress, state legislatures, and other representative bodies.

Planted in Virginia a year before the Mayflower arrived from England, representative government would take root firmly, blossom in 13 largely self-governing colonies, and after independence grow into the great tree of American liberty, inspiring similar plantings in much of the world.

It hardly seemed like a monumental event at the time.

The burgesses met for less than a week, dealt with practical concerns like setting a tobacco price floor, relations with the Indians, and some criminal cases, and then departed one man down. Mr. Shelley of Smyths Hundred grew ill and passed way from the heat. Governor Yeardley and others also fell sick but survived.

Representative government is frustrating today, but at least the survival rate has improved.

Next year will mark the 400th anniversary of this hugely important, if rudimentary and tragedy-laced, beginning. It will present an opportunity to reflect on how far representative democracy has come and how far it still has to go.

In addition to ceremonial events, the 2019 American Evolution Commemoration will feature highly substantive dialogues on the challenges confronting representative democracies today.

Honest history usually is hard history, but it is how we learn, adapt, overcome, and improve.

The first will take place in May 2019. The University of Virginia and surrounding presidential homes will be the site of the Global Pathfinder Summit, a program that will embed 200 students and young adultshalf from the United States and half from other countriesin a week-long series of reflections and discussions on civic engagement. How to motivate and mobilize a new generation to take part in the hard work of democracy will be the focus.

A major digital component will link the dialogue to democratic activists around the world and yield an expanded international network of connected and mutually supportive young leaders committed to effective self-government.

A related University of Virginia program, the Presidential Ideas Festival, will engage these young pathfinders in examination of the elected executives role in democratic systems.

Then, in late July 2019, the College of William and Mary will host the International Forum on the Future of Representative Democracy in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Congressional leaders, prominent officials from state and municipal legislative bodies in the United States, and a diverse array of international legislative leaders are among those expected to attend.

Coinciding with ceremonies at nearby Jamestown marking that first assemblys 400th anniversary, the Forum will bring together these accomplished democratic leaders and practitioners with advocates, scholars, and commentators for a wide-ranging exploration of major challenges facing representative systems in the 21st century.

Virginia, ground zero for the start of representative government and Americas founding, will again be the locus of vital discussions about the capacity of free women and men to engage productively as members of a diverse yet unified self-governing community.

The May and July democracy-focused gatherings are part of a year-long American Evolution program that will highlight the 400th anniversary of multiple events that have shaped modern America.

That first legislative assembly was only one of the landmark events that date to the extraordinary year, 1619, in Virginia. Others include the arrival of the first recorded Africans in North America, the first recruitment of female settlers in significant numbers, the first official English Thanksgiving, and the start of entrepreneurial ventures in the colony.

Honest history usually is hard history, but it is how we learn, adapt, overcome, and improve.

While some of the beginnings traceable to 1619 were laudable from the start, others are lamentable for the rank injustice, hardship, and suffering they occasioned. Together, they set in motion four centuries of struggle, striving, and contributions that have shaped what America is today and is still becominga country defined by its distinctive democracy, diversity, and opportunity.
After jurors were dismissed Monday in the Paul Manafort trial Monday, the federal judge overseeing the case and prosecutors trying the former Trump campaign chairman got into an extended verbal debate -- lasting about 10 minutes -- over the merits of the prosecution, the length of the case and even the eye contact of prosecutor Greg Andres.

U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III specifically pushed Andres on why the prosecution was moving slowly with Rick Gates  the former Manafort business partner who testified on Monday  and specifically to describe the link between wealthy Ukrainian politicos and Manafort. Ellis argued that the connection was not the basis of the case.

What matters are the allegations that he made money from them and didnt report it, Ellis said. You don't need to throw mud at these people.

I dont know if they are bad or good. And I dont care, Ellis argued, reiterating his previous claim that the prosecution seemed to be focusing not on the actual charges but on what he considered political contributions.

Ellis again compared the Ukrainians in question to American billionaires and Mr. Koch and Mr. Soros as political contributors.

I dont know why you keep bringing (up) these people, Andres said, referring to the Ukrainians. These people are not like any Americans. These people are oligarchs and that means they control a segment of the economy based on the governments allowing them to do that.

These are not really political contributions, he continued. They are self-serving payments with respect to what oligarchs do.

That makes it even clearer to me that it doesnt have anything to do with the allegations in this case, Ellis responded. It throws dirt on these people. They may deserve it. I dont know - and I dont care.

At another point in the exchange Andres could be heard challenging Ellis on a technicality. Respectfully, judge, that is not what the law is, Andres responded bluntly at one point.

The most heated moment of the debate, however, took place when Ellis got perturbed by Andres not looking up at him while speaking.

Look at me! Dont look down, Ellis demanded.

Then, when Andres responded that he was looking at a relevant document, the exchange grew testier.

You looked down as if to say thats B.S.! Ellis said. Im up here!

WHO IS TS ELLIS? A LOOK AT THE JUDGE IN THE MANAFORT, MUELLER CASE

Manafort, 69, faces tax evasion and bank fraud charges as he is accused of hiding a significant percentage of income earned from his Ukrainian work from the IRS. He also is accused of fraudulently obtaining millions more in bank loans, including while he was working on the Trump campaign.

Held in Alexandria, Virginia, the case is the first for Special Counsel Robert Mueller since his appointment to oversee the Russia investigation in May 2017. It started on July 31 and is expected to last about three weeks.

Both Manafort and Gates were indicted last October, accused in a multimillion-dollar money-laundering conspiracy tied to lobbying work for a Russia-friendly Ukrainian political party.

Mueller dropped the 22 tax and bank fraud charges against Gates after the former business partner of Manafort agreed to plead guilty.

Another three hours of Gates testimony, according to Andres, is scheduled for Tuesday.

Fox News Kaitlyn Schallhorn contributed to this report.
Paul Laxalt, the son of Basque immigrants who rose to political power as a Nevada governor, U.S. senator and close ally to Ronald Reagan, has died. He was 96.

Laxalt died Monday at a health care facility in Virginia, according to the public relations firm The Ferraro Group.

The conservative Republican had a storied political career, including a brief run for president in 1987. But he described that bid as "the four most miserable months of my life," and in a 2000 interview with The Associated Press said he was happy to be out of politics.

In the interview that focused on a memoir he wrote, Laxalt said he wasn't trying to compete with his brother, the late, award-winning author Robert Laxalt, and planned to "hang onto my day work."

Robert's writing included "Sweet Promised Land," his classic story about the Laxalts' father, a Basque who left the Pyrenees in 1906 to herd sheep in the American West.

Paul Laxalt's memoir told of his youth and rapid rise to political prominence in Nevada, his years as a U.S. senator, Reagan confidante, presidential aspirant and, finally, legal adviser and lobbyist.

Laxalt refused to write an insider's "kiss-and-tell" account of the Reagan years. He said he wouldn't retire on proceeds from the memoir because it avoided a salable mix of "gossip, sex or scandal."

Laxalt's successes in the political realm fit right into old-fashioned, log cabin American tradition.

Born in Reno and raised in Carson City, Laxalt first learned the Basque language of his immigrant parents. But once he learned English, he got an earful at the small hotel-restaurant his parents ran on Carson's main street: lots of political talk, including bourbon-lubricated speeches from top elected officials who would show up for dinner and drinks.

After surviving horrific World War II combat duty in the Philippines, Laxalt married Jackie Ross and went to law school. He returned to Carson and practiced law with Ross' father, who later became a federal judge. He started his political career by getting elected district attorney in 1954.

Laxalt won his first statewide race, for lieutenant governor, in 1962. He lost a U.S. Senate race in 1964, but bounced back by winning the governor's race in 1966.

"Not bad for a Basque sheepherder's kid," said Laxalt.

As Nevada governor, Laxalt was credited with repairing damaged ties between state and federal governments over Nevada's gambling industry. He had numerous phone conversations with eccentric billionaire Howard Hughes, encouraging Hughes' casino acquisitions that helped to rid Las Vegas of mob influences.

Laxalt also helped to launch the state's community college system, medical school, and Lake Tahoe preservation efforts.

After one term as governor, Laxalt left politics and joined his family in a trouble-plagued hotel-casino venture.

The venture led to a bitter libel lawsuit against the Sacramento Bee over stories about the family's Ormsby House hotel-casino.

Laxalt blamed the Bee for the suicide  one day before the lawsuit was settled  of his brother Peter's ex-wife, who had been interviewed by the paper.

Laxalt's marriage with his first wife, with whom he had raised six children, ended in divorce in 1972. He married Carol Wilson in 1976.

Laxalt returned to politics by winning a U.S. Senate seat in 1974. When he retired after two terms in 1987, he had become one of the most popular figures in Nevada's political history.

In Washington, Laxalt was one of Reagan's closest and most trusted friends, his link to the Senate and his national campaign chairman, and general chairman of the Republican Party.
Democrats hoping for a major upset victory in a pivotal Ohio special election Tuesday touted a new poll suggesting the House race is a virtual tie, while Republicans made an all-out final push to avert a potentially embarrassing loss in a district they have controlled for decades.

Several other states will head to the polls for key primary fights on Tuesday, including Missouri, Michigan, Kansas, and Washington. But the tight race for Ohio's wealthy and highly educated 12th Congressional District, which has had a Republican representative for more than 35 years, is seen as a particularly crucial indicator of how President Trump's progress in office could be faring with conservatives.

Tuesday's contest in Ohio is not a primary, but a special election to determine who will take the House seat held by retired Rep. Pat Tiberi. A poll conducted earlier this month by the Emerson College Polling Society and released Monday found that the upstart Democrat in the race, 31-year-old Danny OConnor, is holding onto a one-percentage point lead over two-term Republican State Senator Troy Balderson, 56, with seven percent of very likely voters still undecided.

That's well within the poll's margin of error, and it mirrored a Monmouth University survey released last week showing no statistically significant daylight between the candidates. Trump took the district by 11 points in 2016.

During a canvassing event Monday featuring actress and Cleveland native Kathryn Hahn, O'Connor seized on the polls, urging volunteers to press on through the evening even when they're tired or thirsty for the sake of change in Washington.

"We're part of a movement," he said. "We are part of a grassroots movement that's going to change the way that politics works."

All available polls in the race were conducted prior to President Trump's freewheeling rally Saturday night in suburban Columbus, however, and Republicans are hoping that the combination of big spending and national star power will turn the tide. At the rally, Trump said House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., "controls Danny OConnor, whoever the hell that is."

WATCH: TRUMP RIPS O'CONNOR AS 'PUPPET' FOR PELOSI IN SWELTERING RALLY

O'Connor once vowed not to vote for Pelosi to lead the party again, but later backtracked, saying he would support her if it was necessary to retake the House.

Working phones at a volunteer site Monday, Balderson said he's felt enthusiasm throughout the district following Trump's visit Saturday.

"He definitely brought major excitement, and they were excited to see him up here," Balderson said. "To stand on stage [with Trump] was incredible."

Vice President Mike Pence also has visited the state to help defend the seat, which was was held for 18 years by GOP Gov. John Kasich and nearly another 18 by Tiberi, a pro-business, establishment Republican. Both are backing and campaigning for Balderson in Tuesday's special election for the remainder of Tiberi's unexpired term.

Balderson is a Trump supporter but also has aligned himself with Kasich, an outspoken Trump critic who ran against the president in 2016.

Kasich said Sunday on ABC News' "This Week" that the close race "doesn't bode well" for Republicans, calling it a "shocking" turn of events in the GOP stronghold.

WHAT OTHER STATES ARE GOING TO THE POLLS ON TUESDAY?

Besides big names, Balderson also has the backing of big money. Independent expenditure groups have spent more than $3.7 million in the race in advertising on his behalf, more than five times what Democratic groups have contributed.

Still, Democrats have hammered Balderson for his association with Trump, as well as for telling a local newspaper that he would consider raising the age for Medicare and Social Security.

"I have no problems raising the age" for Medicare benefits, Balderson said in an interview with the Columbus Dispatch. He responded "yes" when asked if he would consider changing the rules for Social Security eligibility, as well. His attempts to soften the impact of the statements by saying he wouldn't change eligibility for retirees or those "approaching" retirement did little to deflect criticism.

"We are part of a grassroots movement that's going to change the way that politics works."  Ohio Democratic nominee Danny O'Connor

Also on Tuesday, Republicans in Missouri will pick their nominee to take on Sen. Claire McCaskill, the Democratic incumbent who is considered vulnerable in November. Out of a crowded field of Republican candidates, Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley has emerged as a favorite, even securing Trumps endorsement months before the primary election.

And in Kansas, Gov. Jeff Colyer is seeking his first full term leading the state, but Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach received a last-minute endorsement from President Trump.

Democrats need to secure an additional 23 seats to obtain a House majority in November.

Fox News' Kaitlyn Schallhorn and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Rick Gates on Monday took the stand in the federal fraud case against his former business partner, ex-Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, testifying that he and Manafort conspired to commit bank and tax fraud -- and that he embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort.

The day ended with the judge in the case ripping into prosecutors, telling them to expedite their case. But earlier, federal prosecutor Greg Andres got the government's star witness to admit he committed crimes while working for Manafort.

Did you commit crimes with Mr. Manafort? Andres asked Gates after he took the stand.

Yes, Gates said.

Manafort, facing charges of bank and tax fraud related to his work in Ukraine, has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Gates struck a plea deal with prosecutors to cooperate in the case against his former business partner. The usually bearded Gates appeared in court clean-shaven on Monday.

During his testimony, Gates read out loud the language from his indictment charging him with conspiracy and making false statements to the government.

Who did you conspire with? the prosecutor asked.

Paul Manafort, Gates replied.

Gates testified that he and Manafort under-reported income and failed to file FBAR, or Foreign Bank Account Report, forms.

Gates said that Manafort requested over the years that Gates make wire transfers from foreign accounts primarily in Cyprus, and those funds were not reported.

Gates also testified that he lied to Manaforts bookkeeper and accountants.

He replied yes when asked if he knew it was a crime not to file those reports.

Gates also admitted to embezzling several hundred thousand dollars from Manafort while working for him.

The trial is set to reconvene Tuesday morning. Andres, the prosecutor, said to expect another three hours of Gates testimony.

After the jury was dismissed for the day, there were fireworks as U.S. District Court Judge T.S. Ellis III lit into Special Counsel Robert Muellers team, telling the prosecution to expedite its case against Manafort.

During the back-and-forth, Ellis admonished the prosecutor for not looking at him while speaking. Look at me! Dont look down!

Andres responded that he was looking at a relevant document, but the exchange got more heated. You looked down as if to say: thats B.S.! Ellis said.

Gates' testimony is important for prosecutors: Ellis said in court last week they cant prove conspiracy in the case unless prosecutors call Gates to the stand.

During opening arguments last week, the defense team made it clear they intend to blame Gates, who handled some day-to-day business operations for Manafort, for many of the alleged reporting deficiencies Manafort is charged with.

Rick Gates had his hand in the cookie jar and couldnt let his boss find out, Manafort defense attorney Thomas Zehnle said during opening arguments.

Prosecutors have introduced a bevy of exhibits and are in the process of calling several witnesses as part of their effort to paint Manafort as a tax scofflaw who failed to report money spent on luxury items -- then lied to get bank loans when his foreign consulting work dried up.

The judge in the Paul Manafort trial reminded prosecutors on Friday of the high bar for conviction -- that they must prove the former Trump campaign chairman knowingly violated tax and bank laws related to his political work overseas.

Manafort served as chairman of Trumps presidential campaign during the summer of 2016, and was forced out in August of that year amid news stories about his ties to then-Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych.

Earlier Monday, Ellis threatened to kick reporters out of the courtroom if they continue being disruptive.

If you cause a disruption, I will have you excluded! Ellis said.

MANAFORT CASE JUDGES ADMONISHES DISRUPTIVE REPORTERS DURING TRIAL

The warning came after multiple reporters rushed out of the courtroom at the same time Monday after it was announced that Gates would testify Monday.

Under rules, reporters covering the trial cannot use phones or laptops in the courtroom and must go outside to transmit news from inside.

Ellis, a 78-year-old Reagan-appointed judge, is known for his colorful comments.

Fox News Serafin Gomez, Jake Gibson and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A divided federal appeals court in San Francisco ruled Tuesday that a U.S. Border Patrol agent can be sued by the family of a Mexican teenager, who was shot to death in a 2012 cross-border incident.

Border Patrol agent Lonnie Swartz had sought qualified immunity, arguing that he was on American soil when he fired on 16-year-old Jose Antonio Elena Rodriguez in Nogales, Mexico. But the appeals court accepted the familys explanation the boy was not committing any crime or posing any threat to the federal officer, despite assertions by Swartzs attorneys that Elena Rodriguez was lobbing rocks across the border during a drug smuggling attempt.

[Elena Rodriguez] was not suspected of any crime, was not fleeing or resisting arrest and did not pose a threat to anyone, the use of force was unreasonable under the Fourth Amendment, the court stated in its 72-page opinion, adding that no reasonable officer could have thought that he should shoot the boy.

The 2-1 majority added, We cannot imagine anyone whose conscience would not be shocked by the cold-blooded murder of an innocent person walking down the street in Mexico or Canada by a U.S. Border Patrol agent on the American side of the border.

The ACLU, which was representing the family, applauded the decision.

The court made clear that the Constitution does not stop at the border and that agents should not have constitutional immunity to fatally shoot Mexican teenagers on the other side of the border fence, said Lee Gelernt, deputy director of the ACLU's Immigrants' Rights Project. The ruling could not have come at a more important time, when this administration is seeking to further militarize the border.

Swartz fired 16 shots late on Oct. 10, 2012, through a 20-foot fence that sits on an embankment above Mexico's Calle Internacional, a Nogales street lined with homes and small businesses.

During a month-long criminal trial earlier this year, prosecutors acknowledged that Elena Rodriguez was lobbing rocks across the border during a drug smuggling attempt, but they argued he did not deserve to die for it. Swartzs attorneys countered that the Border Patrol agent was justified in using lethal force against rock-throwers and shot from the U.S. side of the border in self-defense.

A mistrial was declared in April after an Arizona jury acquitted Swartz of a second-degree murder charge.

The Border Patrol came under close scrutiny during the Obama administration for allegations involving excessive use of force. Customs and Border Protection, its parent agency, reported 55 incidents in which employees used firearms from Oct. 1, 2011, to Sept. 30, 2012. The number of incidents fell to 17 for the same period five years later.

The killing of Elena Rodriguez was also felt deeply in the twin communities of Nogales, where about 20,000 people live on the Arizona side and about 300,000 in Mexico. The communities are linked by family members, trade and culture and have long been referred to locally as "Ambos Nogales" - "Both Nogales" in Spanish.

Fox News' Andrew OReilly and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
After years of deflection and foot-dragging, the major tech companies are finally having to take steps toward policing their own content.

They have reached this point kicking and screaming, under great public pressure, after clinging for years to the fiction that they are just public utilities and that people can use their pipes for pretty much anything.

But now they have united, for a brief moment at least, against a major conspiracy theorist.

Facebook, Apple, YouTube and Spotify have all taken action against Alex Jones.

They are deathly afraid of being accused of political bias, sometimes for good reason. Both Facebook and Twitter have both grappled with incidents of discrimination against conservatives, which may have made them gun-shy about banning (as opposed to shadow-banning) some folks.

But almost in unison, the tech giants teamed up against Jones, who runs Infowars.

Candidate Donald Trump appeared on Jones' online show in 2015, and yesterday Jones tweeted a video defense with the headline: "EMERGENCY: President Trump Must Defend the First Amendment."

Facebook said it has taken down some Jones pages "for glorifying violence, which violates our graphic violence policy, and using dehumanizing language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies."

Apple said it removed the "Alex Jones Show" and other podcasts from iTunes and its podcast app. The company said it "does not tolerate hate speech, and we have clear guidelines that creators and developers must follow to ensure we provide a safe environment for all of our users."

Googles YouTube dropped the ax on Jones' channel, telling The Washington Post that it terminates users who violate "our policies against hate speech and harassment or our terms prohibiting circumvention of our enforcement measures."

And Spotify banned Jones altogether after earlier removing some podcasts, telling the Post: "We take reports of hate content seriously and review any podcast episode or song that is flagged by our community."

I know Jones has a lot of fansremember the controversy swirling around his interview with Megyn Kellybut he's also a guy being sued by Sandy Hook parents for saying that the horrible massacre at that Connecticut school was a hoax.

Jones apologized last year, in careful language, for spreading the phony Pizzagate conspiracy theory, saying he'd been given inaccurate information.

Thats not "conservative." That's at odds with reality.

Jones texted the Post that being banned by the tech companies was "a counter-strike against the global awakening."

"We've seen a giant yellow journalism campaign with thousands and thousands of articles for weeks, for months misrepresenting what I've said and done to set the precedent to de-platform me before Big Tech and the Democratic Party as well as some Republican establishment types move against the First Amendment in this country as we know it," he said.

Separately, Jones called The New York Times a "globalist intelligence agency" and said that the "evil, wicked sociopaths" who work for major media outlets were teaming up to take down Infowars.

I confess I'd like to know how the four tech companies happened to take action on the same day. Perhaps they concluded there was safety in numbers. They seemed to have an ally in Drudge, whose banner headline was "APPLE REGULATES HATE."

But this is just a skirmish. Just recently, Mark Zuckerberg got himself into trouble by saying he saw no reason to ban pages by Holocaust deniers.

There is a fine line between banning hate and bullying on one hand and censoring controversial political opinions on the other. These battles will play out in a hyperpartisan political atmosphere. But for now, Apple, Facebook, Google and Spotify have all agreed there is one person who falls on the wrong side of that line.
Police are looking for two suspects involved in an alleged hate crime after a California Sikh man was brutally beaten as he placed campaign signs for a Republican congressman along the road.

Surjit Malhi, 50, has been instrumental in his community with helping the homeless, serving victims of fires and supporting the Stanislaus County GOP, KOVR-TV reported.

But last week, while Malhi was placing campaign signs for Rep. Jeff Denham, R-Calif., along the side of a road in Keyes, two men approached him, throwing sand into his eyes and beating him in the head and chest, police said.

The assailants allegedly told Malhi to go back to your country and even spray painted that message onto the side of his white truck.

It was very scary, Malhi told KOVR, adding he was afraid the men were going to shoot him.

Casey Joyce Musgrave, who said she is a friend of Malhis child, posted a photo of the truck on Facebook. It has since been shared more than 100 times.

4 TEENS CHARGED WITH HATE CRIMES AFTER RACIST GRAFFITI, SWASTIKAS FOUND AT HIGH SCHOOL

Go back to ur country, the paint says, along with what a symbol the Anti-Defamation League has identified as a white supremacist version of the Celtic Cross.

Just so everyone knows, violent acts of racism are happening in your area, Musgrave said on social media, adding that Malhi has done a lot to help his community since hes lived in it for the past 35 years.

Malhi credited his turban, worn as a symbol of faith among Sikhs, from saving him from further injuries. However, he has said he suffers from headaches and dizzy spells since the attack.

Stanislaus County Sheriff Adam Christianson told the Modesto Bee that police are looking into the attack as a potential hate crime and assault with a deadly weapon.

This is a random despicable criminal act against a member of the Sikh community, Christianson told the newspaper.

ANTI-SEMITIC SYMBOLS SPRAY-PAINTED AT INDIANA SYNAGOGUE

The suspects are white men who wore black hooded sweatshirts during the assault, police said. There is no known relationship between the suspects and Malhi, according to police.

This is a heinous crime, and we are actively investigating it, Sheriff Sgt. Tom Letras told the Modesto Bee.

Since the attack, Malhi told KOVR that others in the community have banded together to help him  including members of CrossFit ParaBellum.

Scott and Renee Sedgwick got a group of their gym members to meet Sunday afternoon and help wash Malhis truck and clean up his yard. Malhi has been a member of the CrossFit ParaBellum gym for almost two years, and Renee Sedgwick said she wanted to make sure he knows he is welcome in their community.

MAN CHARGED WITH HATE CRIME AFTER BERATING WOMAN WEARING PUERTO RICAN FLAG SHIRT

The Sedgwicks also recruited members from their local Mormon church to assist in the cleanup.

It was great to see everyone laughing alongside another human being, Renee Sedgwick told Fox News. Race isnt a part of it. Religion shouldnt be a part of it. Were all human beings.

The group was able to get all of the paint residue off of Malhis truck  leaving behind no trace of the hateful message that was once painted on it.

A spokesperson for Denham's campaign said the congressman spoke to Malhi personally while he was still hospitalized.

"Hate crimes have no place in our society," Denham said in a statement to Fox News. "The people responsible for this reprehensible act of hatred must be brought to justice."

"Inciting violence because of race, religion or political beliefs should never be tolerated," he continued. "We will continue to foster a campaign of inclusiveness and advocate for a free and civil exchange of ideas. It's shameful that there are those out there who seek to intimidate and commit acts of violence to achieve their goals."

As for his assailants, Malhi said their actions are not the American way.

If youre a real American, if you love America, you should not do that, he said.

Keyes is more than 80 miles south of Sacramento.
The Democratic nominee for governor in South Carolina could have jeopardized his campaign by trying to run as a candidate for three other parties as well.

State Rep. James Smith, who won the June Democratic primary, tried to become a so-called fusion candidate in the gubernatorial election by simultaneously vying to become the nominee of the Green, Libertarian and Working Families parties as well.

While its technically legal for a candidate to appear on the ballot as the nominee for more than one party, South Carolina does have a sore loser law which prohibits a person who lost a partys nomination from appearing on the ballot, the Charleston Post and Courier reported.

After questions were raised about his campaign, Smith ultimately withdrew his candidacy from the other three parties on Friday, saying he wanted to eliminate potential misunderstanding.

But South Carolinas Libertarian Party  which voted over the weekend to reject his nomination  is questioning whether Smiths withdrawal can stand.

FOX NEWS MIDTERM ELECTIONS HEADQUARTERS

Stewart Flood, party chairman, told Fox News Smith legally cannot withdraw his candidacy after formally filing to run. Therefore, the party unanimously voted against Smith on Saturday and has sent a letter to the states Election Commission informing them of the vote.

We just follow the law, and I believe hes off the ballot, Flood said.

He said the party does not have the financial means to mount a lawsuit challenging Smiths candidacy but does believe the states Supreme Court should take it up quickly should someone else decide to do so.

US SENATE HOPEFUL LAUNCHES CAMPAIGNS IN TWO DIFFERENT STATES

South Carolina Election Commission spokesman Chris Whitmire told The State the sore loser law might not actually be applicable in this case since the Libertarian Party isnt nominating anyone else for governor.

Well cross that bridge when we come to it, but considering the candidate withdrew on Friday, before the vote on Saturday, I would think it would be moot, Whitmire told the newspaper.

South Carolinas Green Party said earlier this week it would not put forward a gubernatorial candidate this year, but it did endorse Smith because of his "long-standing work as a key leader in efforts to protect and improve the environment.

ALASKA CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATE DOESNT LIVE IN STATE  OR EVEN PLAN TO CAMPAIGN THERE

When asked if he thought of the possibility of his name being removed from the ballot, Smith told WIS-TV there was none, zero.

Their conclusions of the law are completely inaccurate, Smith stated.

Flood said he wasnt aware of Smiths intention to seek the Libertarian Partys nomination until he was contacted by a local reporter last week. Mike Stewart, co-chair of the Green Party, told the Post and Courier he was also unaware of Smith's actions.

Henry McMaster, who became governor when Nikki Haley was elevated as ambassador to the U.N., is the Republican nominee.
Rick Gates, who has turned on former boss Paul Manafort to testify they committed bank and tax fraud together, returned to the stand for several more hours of testimony in federal court on Tuesday.

Gates, testifying as part of a plea deal, said Tuesday that Manafort would fraudulently classify certain wire transfers as loans to reduce the amount of taxable income in a given year. Manafort, with his arms folded, has been staring daggers at his former deputy during the testimony.

Before proceedings began in the morning, prosecutors said they expected three more hours of testimony from Gates, considered the star witness in the high-profile fraud case against Manafort, the former chairman of the Trump campaign.

Manafort, 69, faces tax evasion and bank fraud charges as he is accused of hiding a significant percentage of income earned from his Ukrainian work from the IRS. He also is accused of fraudulently obtaining millions more in bank loans, including while he was working on the Trump campaign.

Manafort has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

But Special Counsel Robert Muellers team is running into trouble as the famously-prickly judge in the case, U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III, lashed out again at the prosecution.

After jurors were dismissed for the day Monday, Ellis got into an extended verbal debate -- lasting about 10 minutes -- over the merits of the prosecution, the length of the case and even the eye contact of prosecutor Greg Andres.

RICK GATES TESTIFIES HE AND MANAFORT COMMITTED FRAUD

Ellis specifically pushed Andres on why the prosecution was moving slowly with Gates, as well as why the prosecution is focusing on the link between wealthy Ukrainian politicos and Manafort. Ellis argued that the connection was not the basis of the case.

What matters are the allegations that he made money from them and didnt report it, Ellis said. You don't need to throw mud at these people.

I dont know if they are bad or good. And I dont care, Ellis added, reiterating his previous claim that the prosecution seemed to be focusing not on the actual charges but on what he considered political contributions.

The most heated moment of the debate, however, took place when Ellis got perturbed by Andres not looking up at him while speaking.

Look at me! Dont look down, Ellis demanded.

Then, when Andres responded that he was looking at a relevant document, the exchange grew testier.

You looked down as if to say thats B.S.! Ellis said. Im up here!

Held in Alexandria, Virginia, the case is the first for Special Counsel Robert Mueller since his appointment to oversee the Russia investigation in May 2017. It started on July 31 and is expected to last about three weeks.

Both Manafort and Gates were indicted last October, accused in a multimillion-dollar money-laundering conspiracy tied to lobbying work for a Russia-friendly Ukrainian political party.

Mueller dropped the 22 tax and bank fraud charges against Gates after the former business partner of Manafort agreed to plead guilty.

During his testimony Monday, Gates testified that he and Manafort conspired to commit bank and tax fraud -- and that he secretly embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort while working for him.

During his testimony, Gates read out loud the language from his indictment charging him with conspiracy and making false statements to the government.

Who did you conspire with? the prosecutor asked.

Paul Manafort, Gates replied.

Gates testified that he and Manafort under-reported income and failed to file FBAR, or Foreign Bank Account Report, forms.

Gates said that Manafort requested over the years that Gates make wire transfers from foreign accounts primarily in Cyprus, and those funds were not reported.

Gates also testified that he lied to Manaforts bookkeeper and accountants.

He replied yes when asked if he knew it was a crime not to file those reports.

Gates also admitted to embezzling several hundred thousand dollars from Manafort while working for him.

Earlier Monday, the judge in the case also took aim at journalists, threatening to kick reporters out of the courtroom if they continue being disruptive.

If you cause a disruption, I will have you excluded! Ellis said.

The warning came after multiple reporters rushed out of the courtroom at the same time Monday after it was announced that Gates would testify Monday.

Under rules, reporters covering the trial cannot use phones or laptops in the courtroom and must go outside to transmit news from inside.

Fox News Peter Doocy, Serafin Gomez, Jake Gibson, Kaitlyn Schallhorn and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Revelations that Sen. Dianne Feinstein's former driver and aide was probed by the FBI for allegedly acting as a Chinese spy have spurred claims of a double standard concerning how the bureau handled suspicions of Russian coordination with the Trump campaign.

The California Democrat, in a statement last week, said the FBI informed her of its concerns regarding the staffer in her San Francisco office five years ago. Feinstein said she then ousted the staffer immediately.

But this has renewed questions among President Trump's allies about the bureau's approach in 2016 to suspicions regarding his campaign aides' potential Russian ties. In one case, the FBI briefed Feinstein; in the other, the bureau proceeded to use an informant and surveillance warrants to get information on Trump campaign figures.

House Intelligence Committee Chairman Devin Nunes, R-Calif., who has been a staunch Trump defender throughout the federal probe into Russian meddling and potential collusion with his campaign, complained that Feinstein and Trump were handled differently.

Providing a defensive briefing, like the one given to Senator Feinstein, is a typical response to these kinds of situations, Nunes said in a statement to Fox News. The refusal to give the Trump campaign a defensive briefing, and instead opening a sprawling counter-intelligence investigation of American citizens, is one of many alarming ways that intelligence leaders drastically diverged from normal procedures in their Trump campaign investigation.

The FBI reportedly informed Feinstein, then-chairwoman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, about the spy allegations. The suspected spy served as Feinsteins driver in California, but also took on additional responsibilities in the office, such as working as a liaison to the Asian-American community in California.

The staffer reportedly attended Chinese consulate events on behalf of the senator, and reportedly was recruited after being befriended by someone from Chinas Ministry of State Security.

Five years ago the FBI informed me it had concerns that an administrative member of my California staff was potentially being sought out by the Chinese government to provide information, Feinstein said in a statement. He was not a mole or a spy, but someone who a foreign intelligence service thought it could recruit.

Feinstein said the FBI reviewed the matter and shared its concerns with her. The staffer was removed.

He never had access to classified or sensitive information or legislative matters, Feinstein said. The FBI never informed me of any compromise of national security information.

The Wall Street Journal editorial board wrote this week that the issue is what the FBI told Mrs. Feinstein but didnt tell Mr. Trump.

The question Mr. Trump should ask is why the bureau didnt treat him as a potential President with the same customary courtesy, the editorial said. The FBI claims it had concerns beginning in spring 2016 that low-level Trump campaign staffers Carter Page and George Papadopoulos were colluding with Russians. Yet rather than give the Trump campaign the usual defensive briefing, the FBI launched an unprecedented counterintelligence investigation into a presidents campaign, running informants against it and obtaining surveillance warrants.

The FBI declined to comment on why Trump was not given the same kind of briefing as Feinstein when the investigation began and when Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act warrants were obtained against Page.

But retired FBI special agent and former national spokesman John Iannarelli, who worked at the FBI at the time of the investigation into the Feinstein staffer but not specifically on the case, explained that the difference in bureau procedure could have been based on the narrow scope of the case.

The Feinstein investigation was very narrow, in terms of who their target was, whereas the Trump investigation appears to be much broader, Ianarelli told Fox News, listing Page, Papadopoulos, former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and former campaign staffer Rick Gates.

He also suggested the FBI trusted Feinstein with the information. When youre conducting a public corruption investigation, if youre looking at someone who's working for the official but have nothing to indicate that the official is involved, you may notify the official to prevent the investigation from being compromised, Iannarelli said.

Over the weekend, Trump blasted Feinstein for having a Chinese spy in her office for 20 years.

The leader of the Russia investigation, Dianne Feinstein, had a Chinese spy as her driver for 20 years, Trump said during a rally in Ohio. And shes leading the Russian witch hunt. Isnt that something? And then she says to me, What did you know about this and that? Give me a break.



It is unclear what Trump meant when referring to Feinstein as the leader of the Russia probe, but the Senate Judiciary Committee, where Feinstein serves as ranking member, is running its own investigation into Russian collusion.

The president also blasted Feinstein on Twitter last week, questioning whether the senator would investigate herself.

Feinstein fired back.

The FBI told me 5 years ago it had concerns that China was seeking to recruit an administrative member of my Calif staff (despite no access to sensitive information), Feinstein tweeted. I took those concerns seriously, learned the facts and made sure the employee left my office immediately.

She added: Compare that to your actions: attacking the FBI and refusing the advice of your national security team. SAD! I appreciated then and now the diligent work of our law enforcement and intelligence agencies and acted in the best interests of the country. Give it a try!

Fox News' Chad Pergram and Lukas Mikelionis contributed to this report.
Republicans and President Trump faced a series of major tests on Tuesday, as voters in five states headed to the polls in races that Democrats hoped would serve as an energizing prelude to a liberal takeover of Congress in November.

Kansas, Ohio, Missouri, Michigan and Washington are the battlegrounds, and in the run-up to Tuesday, they have seen no shortage of drama -- ranging from insurgent socialist-backed candidates to last-minute, all-in presidential endorsements and attention-getting ads featuring a Jeep equipped with a replica machine gun.

Perhaps the most-watched contest is in Ohio, where a special election is being held to determine who will replace retired Rep. Pat Tiberi. Republicans have controlled the 12th Congressional District for more than 35 years, but polls have shown the two candidates in the race, upstart Democrat Danny OConnor, 31, and two-term Republican State Senator Troy Balderson, 57, in an effective tie.

Regardless of who wins on Tuesday to fill Tiberi's seat, the two candidates will square off again in November's general election.

Still, the race is widely seen as a bellwether for the upcoming midterms; Trump carried the district by double-digits in 2016.

In an effort to tap into that enthusiasm, Trump shook up the Ohio contest by staging a freewheeling rally in suburban Columbus on Saturday night. In a sweltering auditorium, Trump said House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., "controls Danny OConnor, whoever the hell that is."

Trump renewed that line of attack on Twitter as voters headed to the polls on Tuesday, saying O'Connor is "weak on Crime" and promising that Balderson would be a "great Congressman."

Trump hoped to have a similar 11th-hour effect in Kansas, where less than 24 hours before polls opened, he stunned the party establishment by endorsing Secretary of State Kris Kobach, who had supported the president and worked with him closely.

The endorsement was a major blow to Gov. Jeff Colyer, who had the backing of the National Rifle Association and Kansas political legend Bob Dole. It also alarmed some Republicans, who fear that Kobach's hard-line conservative views will alienate voters in the general election and give Democrats an opening.

WATCH: WHY IS KOBACH SO CONTROVERSIAL IN KANSAS?

Like Trump, Kobach promises a direct rhetorical style, telling voters repeatedly: "I don't back down. I double down." His use of a Jeep with a replica gun mounted on top (and an American flag paint scheme) during campaign stops this summer prompted backlash. Kobach called his critics "snowflakes" and continued to use the Jeep.

Kobach told Fox News' "America's Newsroom" on Tuesday that he is an "insurgent conservative" primarily concerned with cutting taxes and stopping illegal immigration. He added that Trump's endorsement "helps a great deal."

Other races on Tuesday will set the stage for potentially key races in November that could determine which party controls Congress.

In Washington, Sen. Maria Cantwell, a Democrat, is running for her fourth term in the U.S. Senate  but not without a fight from nearly 30 challengers. That group includes: 13 Republicans, four Democrats, five independents and one Libertarian, among others.

WILL WASHINGTON CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATE PULL OFF AN OCASIO-CORTEZ STYLE UPSET?

Former Washington GOP chairwoman Susan Hutchison has emerged as the leading Republican contender to take on Cantwell. Although Fox News rates the Senate race as likely to break Democratic, Hutchison told The Seattle Times, We wouldnt have this crowded ballot if Maria Cantwell wasnt vulnerable.

Also in Washington, 30-year-old Sarah Smith  the progressive challenger to Washington Democratic Rep. Adam Smith in Tuesday's 9th Congressional District primary -- is hoping to replicate the unexpected success of 28-year-old socialist Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Smith has frequently compared herself to Cortez on the campaign trail, and her platform shares many similarities to Cortez's.

In Missouri, Republicans are set to pick their candidate to take on Sen. Claire McCaskill, a Democrat, in the fall. McCaskill has represented Missouri in the Senate since 2007, but Fox News has her bid for re-election rated as a toss-up.

Out of a crowded field of Republican candidates, Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley has emerged as a favorite, even securing Trumps endorsement months before the primary election.

And in Michigan, two Republicans are hoping to secure the GOP nomination to take on incumbent Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Democrat. African-American business executive and Iraq War pilot John E. James, who has Trump's endorsement, is taking on Sandy Pensler, a detergent manufacturer.

The state is also home to an electric gubernatorial showdown, as both parties vie to replace term-limited Gov. Rick Snyder, a Republican. Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette, who was endorsed by Trump, is up against Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, state Sen. Pat Colbeck and Dr. Jim Hines for the GOP nod.

For the Democrats, Abdul El-Sayed, Shri Thanedar and Gretchen Whitmer are battling for the nomination. Whitmer, a former county prosecutor and member of the state legislature, has emerged as the establishment favorite. El-Sayed, on the other hand, has campaigned as a more progressive choice with Sen. Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez both lending their support to the man hoping to become Michigans first Muslim governor.

Fox News' Kaitlyn Schallhorn and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A Republican congressional candidate has accused Facebook of not allowing her to promote her campaign video because it includes scenes from the Cambodian genocide  which her parents survived.

Elizabeth Hengs campaign ad starts with graphic and stark images from the Cambodian genocide in the 1970s as she talks about her parents survival and her campaign mantra: Great things can come from great adversity.

Hengs campaign said Facebook revoked approval to advertise the video last week. According to a screenshot posted to Twitter, Facebook said it was not approved because it does not adhere to its advertising policies.

We dont allow ads that contain shocking, disrespectful or sensational content, including ads that depict violence or threats of violence, the message from Facebook read.

In a statement to Fox News, a Facebook spokesperson said after further review of the ad, "It is clear the video contains historical imagery relevant to the candidate's story."

The ad has been approved and is now running, the spokesperson confirmed Tuesday morning.

We constantly see how liberal tech giants, time and time again, they target conservative voices, Heng told Fox News earlier Tuesday. Facebook cannot deny their algorithms favor liberal messages and often reward individuals such as [Senate Minority Leader] Chuck Schumer, [House Minority Leader] Nancy Pelosi and individuals such as my opponent Jim Costa.

FOX NEWS MIDTERM ELECTIONS HEADQUARTERS

It's unbelievable that [Facebook] could have such a blatant disregard for the history that many people, including my own parents, have lived through, she also said on social media. I'm sure it is shocking for people to hear about this kind of injustice, but this is reality.

Heng is hoping to unseat incumbent Democratic Rep. Jim Costa in Californias 12th Congressional District. She earned more than 47 percent of the vote in the states open primary in June, compared to Costas 53 percent.

House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, also of California, slammed Facebook on Monday, encouraging it to stop the bias.

Heng is a Republican woman. Her family survived the Communist genocide in Cambodia and came to America. Now Facebook is blocking her story, McCarthy, who has taken on tech giants of late, said in a tweet.

FACEBOOK ADMITS IT BLOCKED FLORIDA REPUBLICANS PRO-GUN AD, REVERSES COURSE

Aside from sharing her parents story, the video highlights Hengs scholastic success, including her degrees from Stanford University and Yale University.

Last month, a Florida agriculture commissioner candidate said his ad was blocked from Facebook because it focused on his pro-gun stance. Facebook eventually admitted it had mistakenly thwarted the publishing of Republican state Rep. Matt Caldwells spot and reversed course.
The battle to conrm Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh has focused attention on three red-state Democrats seen as possible swing votes  Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota and Joe Donnelly of Indiana.

But one of the Senates newest members is emerging as a possible fourth Democratic vote who could consider backing President Trumps high court pick in the end.

Alabama Sen. Doug Jones, who was elected to Attorney General Jeff Sessions former seat in December, represents a state that voted for Trump by over 62 percent. This alone has made Jones somewhat of a wild card in the Democratic caucus.

The senators record on conrming Trump political appointees has been mixed, with Jones voting to conrm Secretary of State Mike Pompeo but against the conrmation of CIA Director Gina Haspel.

Political leaders in Alabama and nationally are now trying to pressure Jones to vote in favor of Kavanaugh, with the pro-Kavanaugh Judicial Crisis Network already running ads in the state urging his conrmation.

The Alabama Republican Party Chairman Terry Lathan also recently tweeted, All Alabama eyes on @DougJones with one simple question- is it Sen Schumer/Sanders/Warren or Alabama? #alpolitics #Conrm Kavanaugh.

Jones himself has not said what position hell take, and has bristled at the pressure campaign.

In a recent radio interview with FM Talk 1065s Midday Mobile, according to Yellowhammer News, Jones pushed back and vowed to do his due diligence with the nomination. My job is to do an independent review, Jones said. One of the problems in America I believe we have now is that everybody goes to their corners, and this is a political ght.

A spokesman for Jones ofce did not respond to a request for comment for this report. He recently told Fox News Chad Pergram, Im prepared to vote for a conservative justice, the question is whether Im prepared to vote for this justice.

Keeping his views close to the vest might just be the smart move right now, observers say.

I dont know what the upside would be to coming out this early on, well in advance of a potential vote in the actual Senate that you're going to vote one way or the other, Auburn University political science Professor Soren Jordan said. Instead just let it wither as long as you possibly can to try to avoid upsetting people.

Jordan noted Jones is in a difficult spot, given many Alabama voters hold different political views than he does. Its really hard to navigate those waters of what your individual voters look for you to do.

A confirmation vote for Kavanaugh could come in the fall if Senate Republican leaders have their way.
Ex-Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort stared coldly at Rick Gates as his business partner-turned-witness testified against him Tuesday in federal court, implicating him in an alleged scheme to commit tax and bank fraud with millions made through political work in Ukraine.

Gates, who testified a day earlier that he and Manafort committed fraud together, is considered the star witness in the high-profile case by Special Counsel Robert Mueller's team.

Manafort on Tuesday was seen with his arms folded, staring daggers as his former deputy testified as part of a plea deal. Manafort only broke his stare to review government exhibits on a small monitor in front of him.

Gates, who left the courtroom on Monday without so much as making eye contact with his ex-partner, would only look at the prosecutor during Tuesday's questioning.

Under questioning, Gates said when Manafort did consulting work for Ukrainian politicians, he would send the money he made to accounts in Cyprus. When they wired the money from Cyprus to the United States, Gates said, Manafort would list it as a "loan to reduce his taxable income.

According to Gates, Manafort also reduced his taxable income by wiring money directly from those accounts in Cyprus to expensive vendors in the states for construction projects and fancy clothes.

Gates also testified that Manafort in 2014 expressed frustration to him about the amount he owed in taxes.

Not happy. I just saw this. WTF, Manafort wrote in an email to Gates, according to testimony, after learning accountants had added liabilities.

Manafort, 69, faces tax evasion and bank fraud charges as he is accused of hiding a significant percentage of income earned from his Ukrainian work from the IRS.

MANAFORT CASE JUDGE ADMONISHES 'DISRUPTIVE' REPORTERS DURING TRIAL

Manafort has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

On Tuesday, Gates testified that the Podesta Group and Mercury Public Affairs worked with Manafort on a public relations effort for Ukrainian politicians, and at one point these firms prepared a memo to former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych.

Once Yanukovych left power, though, Gates testified, it decreased the income stream for Manafort. Gates testified that in 2015, Manafort was having trouble paying his bills.

The Podesta Group, a powerful lobbying firm, was led by Tony Podesta, brother of Hillary Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta.

Gates also said Tuesday that before the special counsels probe, the FBI wanted to interview them about a separate matter in Ukraine.

Gates testified that Manafort ordered Gates to travel abroad to tell a Ukrainian businessman and government official about Manaforts upcoming FBI interview about the matter.

Also on Tuesday, the prosecution for the first time brought up Gates and Manaforts time on the Trump campaign, as well as Gates work on the Trump inaugural committee.

Gates testified that Manafort sent him an e-mail during the transition saying they needed to talk about banker Stephen Calk for secretary of the Army.

Calk is the founder and CEO of The Federal Savings Bank of Chicago, which lent Manafort millions of dollars. Manafort is accused of falsifying documents to apply for the loan.

Held in Alexandria, Va., the Manafort trial is the first for Mueller since his appointment to oversee the Russia investigation in May 2017. It started on July 31 and is expected to last about three weeks.

But Muellers team is running into trouble; the famously prickly judge in the case, U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III, has been lashing out at the prosecution.

After jurors were dismissed Monday in the trial Monday, Ellis got into an extended verbal debate -- lasting about 10 minutes -- over the merits of the prosecution, the length of the case and even the eye contact of prosecutor Greg Andres.

Ellis specifically pushed Andres on why the prosecution was moving slowly with Gates, as well as why the prosecution is focusing on the link between wealthy Ukrainian politicos and Manafort. Ellis argued that the connection was not the basis of the case.

What matters are the allegations that he made money from them and didnt report it, Ellis said. You don't need to throw mud at these people.

Both Manafort and Gates were indicted last October, accused in a multimillion-dollar money-laundering conspiracy tied to lobbying work for a Russia-friendly Ukrainian political party.

Mueller dropped the 22 tax and bank fraud charges against Gates after the former business partner of Manafort agreed to plead guilty and cooperate with prosecutors.

In a courthouse conversation with a fellow attorney on Tuesday, Manafort lead prosecutor Assistant U.S. Attorney Uzo Asonye was overheard discussing Ellis push to expedite the trial.

Asonye indicated the prosecution was struggling with Judge Ellis demand to quicken the pace.

He wants us to pick up the pace, Asonye said. I dont know if I can.

Fox News Serafin Gomez, Jake Gibson and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Federal prosecutors are investigating Michael Cohen, President Trump's former personal attorney, over alleged tax fraud, The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday.

The paper reported that authorities were looking into whether income from Cohen's taxi-medallion business was underreported in federal income tax returns. Investigators also were looking into whether bank employees provided Cohen with loans for which he did not have adequate documentation, the report said.

The Journal also reported that prosecutors have subpoenaed Jeffrey Getzel, an accountant who prepared many of Cohen's financial statements for submission to banks. Getzel also worked for taxi-medallion manager Evgeny Freidman, who is cooperating with the federal investigation.

Cohen's attorney, Lanny Davis, told Fox News that "in light of the ongoing investigation, I am unable to respond" to the report.

Prosecutors have said previously that they were investigating fraud in Cohen's business dealings, but have not publicly disclosed details. Cohen has not been charged with any crime.

Previous reports have indicated that investigators were examining whether Cohen committed bank fraud, campaign finance violations or other crimes when he paid adult film star Stormy Daniels $130,000 to keep quiet about an alleged affair she had with Trump in 2006.

Federal investigators raided Cohen's home, office and hotel room in April and seized more than four million electronic communications, recorded conversations, videos and other documents. Those items are currently under review by a court-appointed "special master" to determine what is covered by attorney-client privilege.

Lawyers for Cohen, Trump and the Trump Organization designated 12,000 documents as privileged and confidential. As of Thursday, Jones had gone through 9,000 of those files and largely split her decisions: She said 3,600 didn't qualify as privileged or highly personal.

Fox News' John Roberts and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Click for more from The Wall Street Journal.
John James came to cast his ballot at the Old Orchard Methodist church in Farmington Hills, Mich., with his son Hudson riding on his shoulders and the wind at his back. Not only did the polls numbers show that he jumped to a 7-point advantage in the last week, President Trump had just tweeted a second endorsement of him the day before.

John James is a potential Republican star who has a Senate primary election tomorrow in Michigan. If he becomes the Republican candidate, he will beat the Open Borders, weak on crime, Democrat, Debbie Stabenow. Vote for John James and Make American Great Again! Trump tweeted.

James has never had a conversation with the president, but the tweet is enough to get things buzzing, with a large percentage of Republican voters undecided and headed to cast a ballot.

Were really excited, folks are getting back to me on text messages and emails and the energy is real, James said after he voted.

James is a West Point graduate and decorated combat veteran who flew Apache attack helicopters in Iraq. He returned to Michigan to take over his fathers business: the James group. His campaign is very much in support of President Trumps agenda, but so is the campaign of his Republican opponent.

Sandy Pensler states in his ad that he is a conservative businessman who stands with President Trump. They synch on the border wall, China and Trumps pick for the Supreme Court. However, a tape surfaced in which Pensler said that the President speaks at a fourth-grade level. Pensler claims the statement is out of context. Still, the Presidential endorsement went to his Republican opponent.

Its obvious, Id really rather have the presidents endorsement, but there is only one endorsement that matters and that is the people of Michigan, Pensler told Fox News.

Whoever wins has a fight on his hands for the general election.

Democrat Debbie Stabenow is a three-term incumbent, the first female senator in Michigan history and, according to an NBC/Marist poll, she enjoys a comfortable lead against whoever wins the GOP matchup: 55 percent to 37 percent against James, 52 percent to 37 percent against Pensler.

Shes got 18 years of name recognition... And it looks like it will be a heavy female-driven campaign, said Thomas Ivacko at the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan.

Arnold Weinfeld, the interim director for the institute for public policy and social research at Michigan State University, said Stabenow will get a lot of support from agriculture and manufacturing during the general election.

Anyone would have a tough time against Stabenow, he says.

While the Trump endorsement carries weight in the primary, it may have less impact in the general election. Michigan is anything but a Republican stronghold. Trump did win the Wolverine State, the first Republican to win it since George H.W. Bush  but he only won it by 10,000 votes and there was a third-party candidate absorbing some of the votes.

Trumps approval rating in Michigan has been tanking, said Ivanko, adding in the U.S. Senate, Democrats have dominated Michigan for a long time.

The James campaign admits Stabenow also has a significant cash advantage.

Were going to get it going, said Stu Sandler, a consultant to the James campaign regarding fundraising. Were confident that when Michiganders learn more about John James, theyll support him. People are tired of Debbie Stabenow.

There are few races that escape negative campaigning these days and the Republican primary in Michigan was not one of the few. Still, after the ballots are counted, Pensler indicated the party will be able to heal and unify.

I dont think John is going to be successful, but regardless, of course whoever wins, we want to beat Debbie Stabenow in the fall. I think its going to be me, I would certainly expect [James] support and I think he would expect mine as well, said Pensler.
Rick Gates, the star witness in the federal case against ex-Trump campaign adviser Paul Manafort, on Tuesday acknowledged having an extramarital relationship in London while working for Manafort as the defense accused him of leading a secret and second life.

For the last two days in court, Gates has testified that he and Manafort committed bank and tax fraud together.

But during cross-examination on Tuesday, the defense painted Gates as living a secret life in London and accused him of embezzling money from Manaforts foreign accounts at center of the trial to indulge in an extramarital affair in the United Kingdom.

Ive acknowledged there was a period where I had another relationship, said Gates, who is married.

Gates' testimony also touched on an aspect of the Trump campaign. He described emails he received from Manafort about the chances that an economic adviser might be up for the post of Army secretary. Gates said the emails also asked for inauguration tichets for the adviser and his son.

In an aggressive cross-examination on Tuesday, Manaforts lead attorney, Kevin Downing, said to Gates: You stole from Mr. Manafort.

Downing accused Gates of lying on expense reports to make trips to London and around Europe.

MANAFORT STARES DAGGERS AT RICK GATES, AS PARTNER-TURNED-WITNESS DETAILS BOOK-COOKING

Gates acknowledged during testimony on Monday to embezzling money from Manafort. But on Tuesday, he denied using that money to finance his extramarital relationship, saying he used bonus money and family money.

The questioning is part of the Manafort defense strategy of presenting Gates to the jury as someone who lies and cannot be trusted.

Downing summed up his questioning by asking Gates: "After all these lies, and the fraud you have committed, you expect this jury to believe you?"

"I am here to tell the truth and to take responsibility for my actions. Mr. Manafort had the same path, Gates said. I am here. I have accepted responsibility and I am trying to change.

Under cross-examination, he admitted to paying off the full amount of his American Express balance with Manafort's money, including personal expenses, without his business partners knowledge.

During Gates testimony on Tuesday, Manafort stared coldly at Gates as the business partner-turned-witness testified against him. Manafort on Tuesday was seen with his arms folded, staring daggers as his former deputy testified as part of a plea deal. Manafort broke his stare only to review government exhibits on a small monitor in front of him.

Gates, who left the courtroom on Monday without so much as making eye contact with his ex-partner, looked only at the prosecutor during Tuesday's questioning.

Manafort is accused of committing tax and bank fraud with millions made through political work in Ukraine. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Under questioning, Gates said when Manafort did consulting work for Ukrainian politicians, he would send the money he made to accounts in Cyprus. When they wired the money from Cyprus to the United States, Gates said, Manafort would list it as a "loan to reduce his taxable income.

According to Gates, Manafort also reduced his taxable income by wiring money directly from those accounts in Cyprus to expensive vendors in the states for construction projects and fancy clothes.

Gates also testified that Manafort in 2014 expressed frustration to him about the amount he owed in taxes.

Not happy. I just saw this. WTF, Manafort wrote in an email to Gates, according to testimony, after learning accountants had added liabilities.

The trial is scheduled to continue Wednesday morning with Gates on the stand.

Fox News' Serafin Gomez, Jake Gibson and Paulina Dedaj contributed to this report.
Sen. Chris Murphy thinks tech giants banning Alex Jones Infowars is a good start, but says the survival of our democracy depends on sites like Facebook and YouTube removing additional content.

Infowars is the tip of a giant iceberg of hate and lies that uses sites like Facebook and YouTube to tear our nation apart. These companies must do more than take down one website. The survival of our democracy depends on it, Murphy, D-Conn., tweeted on Monday.

The controversial Jones and his Infowars content were removed from Facebook, YouTube, Apple and Spotify this week. Jones is a notorious conspiracy theorist who has been widely criticized for polarizing content, including discredited claims about the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Many staunch Infowars critics condemned the tech giants decision, noting that censoring him could result in further actions against people who arent accepted by the mainstream media  which appears to be exactly what Murphy wants.

Murphy wrote that Facebook and Apple and YouTube have gotten so big they sometimes seem like the government, but reminded his 704,000 followers that the technology giants arent publicly controlled.

They are private companies that shouldnt knowingly spread lies and hate. They took a good first step today by removing Infowars, Murphy wrote.

Murphys Twitter account was filled with negative reaction to his call for additional censorship.

Talk radio host Tony Bruno responded, Thanks for confirming your hatred of the First Amendment Chris. You do realize this is not what Democracy looks like, don't you?

In other words you won't rest until you control the entire message. You won't be happy until you dictate everything we get to hear. I didn't like Jones but you scare me far more, a user said.

Another user added, Youre advocating censorship, how progressive!

Conservative commentator Ben Shapiro explained to Murphy, Youre a governmental official and there is a thing called the First Amendment.

Murphy bills himself as a strong voice for job creation, affordable health care, education, stricter gun laws and progressive foreign policy. He has been among the Senates most liberal members and attacks President Trump on a regular basis.

Murphy recently said Trump is waging a very deliberate assault on the American health care system and called for Connecticut to create its own insurance mandate.

Murphy is seeking re-election in November.
A United Nations human rights expert is under fire after suggesting Israel could have its member status at the world body suspended over alleged violations of international law.



Michael Lynk, the special rapporteur for human rights in the Palestinian territories, made the remarks at a side event during a July session of the Human Rights Council -- the controversial panel the U.S. withdrew from last month.



Audio of the event, Human Rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territory: Systematic Violations with Impunity, was obtained by Fox News from NGO Monitor -- a Jerusalem-based research institute analyzing non-governmental organizations (NGOs) claiming to advance humanitarian agendas.



In that audio, Lynk describes Israel as an illegal occupant, and says the international community has not simply the ability, but also the responsibility and obligation to bring [settlements] to an end.



He then goes on to say that there are a number of tools that the international community can use to bring Israel back in line.



It may mean reviewing or suspending Israels privileges as a state member in the United Nations, he says. It may mean that countries in the world, particularly those with significant trading or political relationships with Israel, would review their relationships with Israel in the military, political, diplomatic, and economic investment spheres. It may mean that Israel would face some forms of restrictions in its abilities to wind up trading.



Lynk was appointed by the controversial U.N. Human Rights Council in 2016. While rapporteurs such as Lynk serve on a voluntary basis and are not salaried by the U.N., they are provided with technical and logistical help by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), are very influential within the U.N. human rights system and are responsible for producing reports as mandated by the U.N.



Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon said that his latest suggestion was another reason why the [Human Rights Council] lost its credibility.



The U.N. must end its habit of providing the Palestinians an excuse to not engage with us directly, Danon said in a statement to Fox News. Mahmoud Abbas knows that actions such as this does nothing to encourage peace; in fact, it actively works against it, and encourages incitement and a culture of hate. This is another reason why the HRC has lost its credibility.

ISRAEL, HALEY ACCUSE UN OF IGNORING ATTACKS BY 'TERRORIST FLAMING SWASTIKA KITES'

In a report on Lynk, NGO Monitor claimed he has partnerships with organizations that have alleged ties to terror groups and that promote the BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) campaign, which promotes a boycott of Israel.



Anne Herzberg, NGO Monitors U.N. expert, told Fox News that the statement shows Lynk is unqualified for his role.

It is completely inappropriate for a U.N. official charged with independently assessing human rights to behave in such a partisan manner, and speaks to the inappropriate close partnerships with and reliance on radical anti-Israel groups, she said. As long as he continues in his position, Lynk compromises the legitimacy of the entire U.N.



In a response to Fox News, Lynk stood by his comments and said they speak to "the importance of ensuring that nations obey international law and that effective measures should be available to the international community to curb unlawful behaviour by UN member states.

He said that Israel is in direct contravention of more than 40 U.N. Security Council resolutions, including resolutions condemning the building of settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.



What should be done with respect to a member state who clearly defies a body of UNSC resolutions, contrary to their responsibilities under the Charter and as an occupying power? he said. If this behaviour is ignored, then the offending member-state will surely take that as a license to continue the prohibited act, and the status of international law will be degraded.



If it is clear that Israel has no intent to comply with the repeated direction of the international community, then other measures within the remedial menu should be considered and applied, he said, adding that similar measures had successfully been used against other countries before.



Both Israel and the U.S. have been fighting against alleged anti-Israel bias at the world body. U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley cited anti-Israel bias as one of the many reasons for the U.S. withdrawal from the Human Rights Council, calling the body a protector of human rights abusers and a cesspool of political bias.



Outgoing High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Raad Al Hussein made repeated headlines for his criticisms of Israel and also President Trump.



Zeids replacement is due to be announced within the next few weeks, and that appointment will be seen as a chance by the U.N. to tone down some of its more abrasive rhetoric against Israel and the U.S.
After a bloody Chicago weekend that left a dozen dead and another 62 wounded, Mayor Rahm Emanuel is facing a mounting political crisis -- with his rivals emboldened as they aim to unseat him in the looming mayoral election.

Several of Emanuels 10 challengers slammed the prominent Democrat for the citys soaring crime and blamed him for everything from an understaffed police force to a lack of investment in Chicagos economically downtrodden neighborhoods.

Emanuel has tried to fend off the attacks while calming an alarmed electorate, but the latest violence has only fueled the calls for political change in the February election.

What happened over the weekend is absolutely horrific and unacceptable. Its another tragic weekend in Chicago, and unfortunately, weve had too many of them, former Chicago Public Schools CEO and mayoral candidate Paul Vallas said, according to the Chicago Tribune. There is no substitution for providing the police resources we need to close this gap.

Vallas blamed Emanuel for permitting the police departments detective division to be gutted through attrition and accused him of shifting officers to various sections of the city for political reasons.

The harshest criticism came from two candidates with deep ties to the citys beleaguered police department: former police Superintendent Garry McCarthy and former Chicago Police Board President Lori Lightfoot.

Stealing a page from President Trumps playbook, McCarthy dubbed Emanuel wasteful Rahm in a tweet over the weekend and blasted the mayor for attending a Sunday afternoon event announcing $10 million in city upgrades to the downtown Riverwalk.

Has wasteful Rahm even seen the South and West side? $10 MILLION would be a tremendous help to residents, especially children that live in poverty from these neighborhoods, McCarthy tweeted. Instead, he wants to waste more on an already perfect downtown attraction.

McCarthy was fired by Emanuel in 2015 after the release of dashcam video showing a white police officer killing a black teenager by shooting him 16 times.

In an interview with Fox News on Tuesday, he continued his attacks on the mayor.

"He hasnt done anything to lower crime rates," McCarthy said. "Hes done exactly the opposite. He's created this political landscape that exists in this city based upon his own politics.  And thats simply not acceptable."

He added: People are dying in record numbers here. And thats got to stop.

Lightfoot said in a statement that Emanuel was only focused on ensuring public safety in certain neighborhoods and accused him of remaining silent in the face of what she called a public health crisis.

Rahm Emanuel cannot sit this outhes the mayor, and our city is facing a public health crisis, Lightfoot said. Taking on gun violence goes far beyond policing: its about ending poverty and reversing decades of disinvestment through quality schools, career training, social services, and jobs in neighborhoods that have been ignored for too long.

Speaking at a news conference on Monday alongside Chicago Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson, Emanuel called the outburst of violence unacceptable and said that Chicago is a better city than how it is portrayed.

"Our souls are burdened," Emanuel said. "It is unacceptable to happen in any neighborhood of Chicago. We are a better city."

Besides taking heat from his rivals in the mayoral race, Emanuel was also besieged on the national level with Trumps lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, blaming Emanuel  former President Barack Obama's White House chief of staff  and decades of "one party Democratic rule" for the violence in a series of tweets.

The former New York mayor also tweeted his support for McCarthy, a Democrat, referring to him as "Jerry" and calling him a "policing genius."

Misspelling Emanuel's last name, Giuliani tweeted: "[McCarthy] can do a lot better than Mayor Emmanuel who is fiddling while Chicago burns." Giuliani also falsely claimed that Chicago had "63 murders this weekend."

Last weekend, though, marked the worst violence of any single weekend in the city since 2016, when homicides in Chicago hit records that had not been seen for two decades.

The victims of the weekend shootings ranged in age from 11 to 63, according to police. One teenage girl died after being shot in the face. A teenage boy was fatally shot riding a bike Sunday afternoon. Other shootings took place at a block party and a funeral.

Most of the shootings happened in poor neighborhoods on the West and South Sides where gangs are entrenched, Johnson said, adding that so far there had been no arrests in any of the weekend shootings.

Days before the attacks, some 200 protesters marched through a well-to-do North Side neighborhood and briefly closed Lake Shore Drive, calling for more resources to stem violence in poor areas.

Tio Hardiman, one of the organizers of last week's rally, said members of the black community need to take the initiative by mediating truces between gangs.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
President Trumps legal team said Monday they are preparing to send special counsel Robert Mueller a letter that would largely turn down a meeting that would include any questions related to obstruction of justice, sources told Fox News.

Trump attorneys are expected to send their response to Mueller as early as today.

Last week, a source said that Trumps legal team would consider allowing questions regarding obstruction if they were in written form.

In a perfect world, wed have a few written questions about the obstruction issue, and oral questions about Russia/collusion, the source said.

Rudy Giuliani, the top lawyer on Trumps legal team, however, told Fox News we have real reluctance about allowing any questions regarding obstruction of justice.

The Washington Post was first to report the letter after an interview with Giuliani on Monday, who said the letter is not intended to decline Muellers request, rather he hopes to continue the negotiations.

Talks between Trumps lawyers and the special counsel investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election have restarted in recent days, and it is not clear a deal will be struck, The Associated Press reported. Trump has publicly expressed a desire to be interviewed, but his lawyers have repeatedly objected to the investigators proposals.

Trump attorneys say both sides have exchanged proposals for conditions for such a Trump interview.

The negotiations come amid a backdrop of Trumps escalating attacks on the probe, including his blunt declaration that his attorney general should terminate right now the federal probe into the campaign that took him to the White House, a newly fervent attack on the special counsel investigation that could imperil his presidency. Trump also assailed the trial, just underway, of his former campaign chairman by the special counsels team.

The president still hasnt made a decision, and were not going to make a final decision just yet, Giuliani told the paper.

Sebastian Gorka, a Fox News national security strategist, told Hannity that there is zero evidence connecting the president to Russia.

And Im going to say now on the record, they will never find any because there isnt any, he said.
President Trump on Tuesday called the sanctions against Iran that went into effect at midnight "the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and warned that countries that do business with Tehran will not do business with the U.S.

Trump signed an executive order on Monday to restore some of the sanctions that were lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal during the Obama administration, targeting transactions that involve U.S. dollars, as well as the countrys automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani responded Monday, "If someone has knife in the hand and seeks talks, he should first put the knife in his pocket."

Rouhani said he has no pre-conditions for opening talks with the U.S. as long as the Islamic Republic gets paid back for decades of American intervention in Iran.

"If the U.S. government is ready to negotiate about paying compensation to the Iranian nation from 1953 until now," Rouhani said. "The U.S owes the Iranian nation for its intervention in Iran."

Rouhani appears to be referencing the CIA-backed mission to overthrow Irans elected prime minister to secure the shahs rule in 1953, a similar sentiment touted by many of his predecessors.

A senior administration official told Fox News these restored sanctions are designed to constrict the revenue Iran uses to fund terrorists, dictators, proxy militias, and the regimes own cronies.

Additional sanctions will resume on Nov. 4, targeting Iran's oil industry and banking sector.

Rouhani also said the country can rely on China and Russia to supplement its oil and banking sectors amid the U.S. imposed sanctions.

Trump, who has repeatedly vowed to withdraw the U.S. from a nuclear deal that he called a horrible, one-sided deal that should have never ever been made, has said he is open to negotiating with Iran.

Fox News Rich Edson and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Primary day in Kansas comes with a little extra drama. Will a sitting governor be defeated by a controversial conservative who just the day before the polls opened received a big endorsement from President Trump?

Republican Gov. Jeff Colyer and Secretary of State Kris Kobach are the leading contenders in a crowded, seven-candidate GOP field. Polls show Colyer and Kobach in a neck-and-neck battle, making Mondays Trump tweet endorsement significant.

In it, Trump tweeted, Kris Kobach, a strong and early supporter of minehe is a fantastic guy who loves his State and our Country-he will be a Great Governor and he has my full and total Endorsement.

That endorsement came against the advice of some top Republicans, including reportedly from leaders of the Republican Governors Association, who believe Kobach is too polarizing to win in November.

Kobach gained national notoriety when he successfully pushed for a law requiring Kansans to prove they are U.S. citizens before registering to vote. The law also requires voters to bring proof of ID to the polls. The law easily passed the Kansas State Legislature, but was later struck down by a U.S. District Court judge.

Kobach is appealing the court ruling and makes no apologies for his tough immigration and voter fraud stances. He says this election is about the future direction of the Republican Party.

In 2016, President Trump set a new course for the Republican Party, Kobach said. In 2018, now the Republican Party is deciding in state after state, do we want to stay on the course that President Trump charted for us?

Colyer supported the voter fraud law and said he agrees with President Trump on everything from his tough immigration positions to his handling of trade with China. But Colyer said Kobachs aggressive style has turned off the same voters needed to keep the governors office in Republican control.

Right now his negatives are 55 percent among the general electorate, but for me what this is about is a conservative message that gets things done, Colyer said. Kansans and Bob Dole himself says, Jeff Colyers the one person who can win the general election.

Polls have also shown Colyer with a name recognition problem. One survey showed 39 percent of respondents had no opinion of him. So hes been barnstorming the state trying to raise his profile. Colyer shook off the Trump endorsement of Kobach, saying the president has a personal relationship with Kobach, who led the presidents short-lived commission on voter fraud. Donald Trump Jr. has also hunted with Kobach and has campaigned for him.

On the Democratic side, there are five candidates vying for the party nomination. The leader is State Sen. Laura Kelly.

Independent Greg Orman turned in more than enough valid signatures to qualify for the November ballot. He could play spoiler. Orman, a businessman, has some name recognition after running unsuccessfully for the U.S. Senate.

Political observers say Trumps endorsement of Kobach is being cheered by opponents.

Both the Democratic candidate and the independent candidate want Kris Kobach to win the nomination, said Washburn University Political Science professor Bob Beatty. They believe they can defeat Kris Kobach in a general election because he is so divisive, and hes relatively unpopular among a number of Kansans.

Polls close at 7 p.m. Central Standard Time.


The fate of President Trumps proposed border wall returned on Tuesday morning to a California courtroom, where it appears likely to survive another round of judicial scrutiny.

In a 40-minute hearing that went deep into the legal morass of which courts could properly hear challenges to the controversial plan, there seemed to be little appetite by the three appellate judges to rule that the administrations Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has overstepped its authority.

Earlier this year a federal judge in San Diego said the president and the DHS were within their powers to erect new border wall prototypes and replace several sections of existing wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. That ruling also cleared the way for the government to waive any environmental laws that could impede construction of the wall, which Trump wants built to further secure the nation's southern border from illegal immigratants hailing from Mexico and Latin America. (The wall was a cornerstone of Trump's 2016 presidential campaign.)

The state of California and several environmental groups joined together to challenge that decision, asking the court to reverse course. They claim the current use of border fence laws passed during the George W. Bush administration as authority for the new construction is improper.

They specifically point to provisions that expired in 2008. It was never designed for that purpose, California Deputy Attorney General Noah Golden-Krasner told the court.

The four environmental groups joining California are the Center for Biological Diversity, the Animal Legal Defense Fund, the Sierra Club and Defenders of Wildlife. Collectively they expressed concern that the wall is being constructed in a global biodiversity hotspot that includes multiple fragile and sensitive habitats," imperiling rare plant species and water quality.

But those concerns werent addressed in court Tuesday as the judges focused on the scope of executive authority and other more technical issues. Judge M. Margaret McKeown said she looked at the language of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (1996), and found that it provides the administration with the broad authority to erect border barriers.

It doesnt say anywhere you should only do whats listed, the appointee of President Bill Clinton said.

Justice Department lawyer H. Thomas Byron III twice said the governments actions fell squarely in the heartland of what Congress intended by giving the executive branch wide latitude for border security.

Following the hearing, Center for Biological Diversity lawyer J.P. Rose told reporters he was hopeful the judges would rule on behalf of the environmental groups. There is no timetable for a decision.

Also hearing the case were Judges Consuelo Callahan and Jacqueline Nguyen who were appointed to the court by Presidents George W. Bush and Obama respectively.
Several states are holding primary elections Tuesday, including some contests that could prove pivotal in determining whether Republicans or Democrats will control the Senate next year.

A tight special U.S. House election also is being held in Ohio as a young Democrat hopes to upset a Republican who has garnered the support of President Trump, Ohio Gov. John Kasich and other party leaders.

Early Tuesday, Trump urged Ohio voters to get out and vote for Republican State Sen. Troy Balderson for Congress, over his opponent, Democrat Danny O'Connor.

"Ohio, vote today for Troy Balderson for Congress. His opponent, controlled by Nancy Pelosi, is weak on Crime, the Border, Military, Vets, your 2nd Amendment - and will end your Tax Cuts. Troy will be a great Congressman. #MAGA," Trump tweeted early Tuesday.

The Ohio race and others could put Trumps influence to the test. Read on for a preview of some of the major elections on Tuesday.

Missouri

Republicans are set to pick their candidate to take on Sen. Claire McCaskill, the Democratic incumbent, in the fall. McCaskill has represented Missouri in the Senate since 2007, but Fox News has her bid for re-election rated as a toss-up.

Out of a crowded field of Republican candidates, Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley has emerged as a favorite, even securing Trumps endorsement months before the primary election.

A lawyer who helped successfully argue before the Supreme Court a case for Hobby Lobby to be exempted from certain ObamaCare rules, Hawley has investigated alleged misuse of a charity donor list by former Missouri Gov. Eric Greitens, a Republican, while he was still in office. Greitens eventually resigned earlier this year after allegations of an affair that was at times violent and non-consensual surfaced.

Austin Petersen, who unsuccessfully sought the Libertarian Party nomination for president in 2016, and Tony Monetti, an Air Force veteran and restaurant owner, are also running for the Republican nomination.

MISSOURI SENATE CANDIDATE RAFFLING MACHINE THAT CAN PRINT UNTRACEABLE GUN PARTS

Monetti has been endorsed by former vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin. Petersen is supported by the Republican Liberty Caucus.

Missouri voters will also decide on a so-called right-to-work referendum on whether the state should ban compulsory union fees in all private-sector workplaces.

Michigan

Gov. Rick Snyder, a Republican, cant run for re-election due to term limits, but the race to replace him is anything but simple.

For the Democrats, Abdul El-Sayed, Shri Thanedar and Gretchen Whitmer are battling for the nomination. Whitmer, a former county prosecutor and member of the state legislature, has emerged as the establishment favorite. El-Sayed, on the other hand, has campaigned as a more progressive choice with Sen. Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez both lending their support to the man hoping to become Michigans first Muslim governor.

Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette, Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, state Sen. Pat Colbeck and Dr. Jim Hines are vying for the GOP nod.

Trump endorsed Schuette nearly a year ago, saying he will be good for job growth in Michigan.

As for Senate, two Republicans are hoping to secure the GOP nomination to take on incumbent Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Democrat. African-American business executive and Iraq War pilot John E. James is taking on Sandy Pensler, a detergent manufacturer, in the August contest.

FOX NEWS MIDTERM ELECTIONS HEADQUARTERS

Trump has endorsed James, who he called spectacular.

Rarely have I seen a candidate with such great potential, Trump said in a July tweet.

While Fox News rates the gubernatorial race as a toss-up, the Senate election in November still remains likely safe for Democrats. In 2016, Trump narrowly eked out a victory over Democrat Hillary Clinton in Michigan.

Voters in Michigan are able to cast so-called straight ticket ballots, meaning they would fill in one bubble to vote for all of one partys candidates for office. Typically, voters were only able to pick Republicans or Democrats, but this year the Libertarian Party also qualified to nominate candidates for the ballot.

It certainly is historic, both for Michigan and for Libertarians. Many people see it as a real opportunity to bring new blood and new activists into the party, Michigan Libertarian Party chairman Bill Hall told MLive.com.

According to the Detroit News, Bill Gelineau and John Tatar are both battling for the Libertarian gubernatorial nomination as well, hoping to secure enough votes to ensure the party appears on the 2020 ballot.

Kansas

Gov. Jeff Colyer is seeking his first full term leading the state, but the race is expected to be tough. Colyer was serving as Kansas lieutenant governor when Trump selected Sam Brownback to be the U.S. ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom in January 2018  thus elevating Colyer into the states top position.

Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach is also vying for the Republican nomination. Kobach was the vice chairman of the White Houses controversial voter fraud commission, which was dismantled by Trump earlier this year as it faced multiple legal battles and oppositions from states. His involvement with the group has earned him the scorn of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which has sent negative flyers to voters ahead of the primary election.

Trump endorsed Kobach the day before the primary, saying he has been "a strong and early supporter" of the president.

LIFELONG NEW YORKER JOINS STUDENTS IN KANSAS GOVERNOR RUN THAT HAS NO RULES

Former state Sen. Jim Barnett, Patrick Kucera, Tyler Ruzich, insurance commissioner Ken Selzer and Joseph Tutera Jr. are also running for the GOP nod. Barnett has been endorsed by the Kansas City Star and made headlines earlier this year when he picked his wife to be his running mate.

Fox News rates the gubernatorial race as lean-Republican, but Democrats are hoping to change the governorship back to blue for the first time since 2011  especially if Kobach wins.

State Sen. Laura Kelly, former Wichita Mayor Carl Brewer and former Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Joshua Svaty have emerged as the three front-runners in the Democratic primary. The candidates have fought over ties to the National Rifle Association and plans for womens reproductive health care in the state, according to KMUW public radio station.

Washington

Sen. Maria Cantwell, a Democrat, is running for her fourth term in the U.S. Senate  but not without a fight from nearly 30 challengers. That group that includes: 13 Republicans, four Democrats, five independents and one Libertarian, among others.

Former Washington GOP chairwoman Susan Hutchison has emerged as the leading Republican contender to take on Cantwell, according to the Seattle Times.

WASHINGTON STATE EMPLOYEES SUE TO ESCAPE UNION AFTER JANUS SUPREME COURT RULING

According to FiveThirtyEight, Cantwell has voted with Trumps agenda 25 percent of the time, including with the nomination of some Cabinet appointees: Robert Wilkie for secretary of veterans affairs, Robert Lighthizer for trade representative, Sonny Perdue for agriculture secretary and Dan Coats for director of national intelligence.

Fox News rates the Senate race as likely Democrat, but Hutchison told the Seattle Times, We wouldnt have this crowded ballot if Maria Cantwell wasnt vulnerable.

Clinton solidly beat Trump in Washington in the 2016 presidential election.

Ohio

Its not a primary election, but Trumps influence will certainly be tested in Tuesdays special House election in Ohio.

The open seat came with the resignation of Rep. Pat Tiberi in the 12th district, which has been represented by Republicans for nearly 40 years. But Democrat Danny OConnor is hoping to change that in his race against Republican state Sen. Troy Balderson.

Polls have shown a tight race between the two, even though Balderson has been endorsed by Trump and Ohio Gov. John Kasich. The president made an appearance in Ohio just a few days before the election to lend his support as well.

A vote for Danny boy and the Democrats is a vote to let criminals and drugs pour into our country, Trump said of Baldersons opponent. And to let MS-13 run wild in our communities. And you know what they do once theyre there.

On Twitter, Trump has called OConnor a puppet for House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.

Fox News Gregg Re and The Associated Press have contributed to this report.
An amateur historian just unearthed a treasure that would turn any archaeologist green with envy: an ornate gold ring dating back to ancient Roman times.

On the face of the ring  which is thought to be 24-karat gold  ancient artisans placed a black onyx with an engraving of the Roman god of victory driving two horses, the BBC reported.

Jason Massey, a member of the Detecting for Veterans group, discovered the detailed ring on July 29 while surveying a field near the town of Crewkerne, England. [Photos: Mosaic Glass Dishes and Bronze Jugs from Roman England]

The 1.7-ounce (48 grams) ring has yet to be formally analyzed, but experts at the British Museum said the ring likely dates to sometime between A.D. 200 and A.D. 300, the BBC reported.

At first, Massey thought the ring was a gold coin, because he found it in the middle of a stash of 60 ancient Roman coins that were buried in the field, he told the BBC. This site has proved fruitful for Massey; in November, he and his friends found a lead-lined coffin and more than 250 coins that also dated to the time of the Roman Empire, the BBC reported.

These lavish finds indicate that a "very high-status Roman villa" once sat at this site, Massey said.

"There's [a] load of figures floating about [for the value of the ring], but we're interested in the villa, who's lived there and where they've come from and who the person was that wore this ring," Massey said.

According to Ciorstaidh Hayward-Trevarthen, a finds liaison officer in Somerset and Dorset, England, "There are a couple of gold rings of that sort of date from Somerset, but they're not common," she told the BBC.

And, just as it is today, gold is "an indication that the owner is fairly wealthy," Hayward-Trevarthen said.

This ring is far from the only Roman artifact uncovered by amateurs. In 2015, a man with a metal detector discovered an exquisitely preserved Roman-era grave in a village north of London, and in 2013, amateur archaeologists uncovered a massive network of tunnels under the Roman emperor Hadrian's villa, in Tivoli, Italy.

Original article on Live Science.
In 1966, over 300 children and staff from a Melbourne school reportedly witnessed multiple UFOs silently flying through the sky before landing in a nearby field.

It is the largest mass UFO sighting in Australia, yet hardly anything was reported on it at the time.

Over the years, there have been differing reports about the details of what happened on April 6 at Westall High School, such as people claiming there were three saucerlike objects, while some thought there was just one.

In the 52 years since, there has been wide speculation about what people saw, with some believing it was an alien encounter and others pointing the finger at the government testing new technology.

Throughout all the years of speculation, however, one particularly interesting piece of audio has been greatly overlooked.

An American physicist known for his research into UFOs, Dr. James E. McDonald, conducted an interview with a science teacher from the Westall school, Andrew Greenwood, who witnessed the event.

He then recorded himself describing their meeting and the creepy details Mr. Greenwood gave about his experience. Greenwood told me the UFO was first brought to his attention by a hysterical child who ran into his classroom and told him theres a flying saucer outside, Dr. McDonald said.

He thought this child had become deranged or something so he didnt take any notice, but when the child insisted that this object was in the sky he decided to go out and have a look for himself.



When he went outside, he noticed a group of children looking toward the northeast area of the school grounds and as he approached them he claims he saw a UFO hovering close to the powerline.

Mr. Greenwood described it as a round, silver object about the size of a car with a metal rod sticking up in the air.

According to Dr. McDonald, the teacher then told him five planes came and surrounded the object as more people began gathering to watch the scene before them.

He called it the most amazing flying he had ever seen in his life, Dr. McDonald said.

The planes were doing everything possible to approach the object and he said how they all avoided collision he will never know.

Every time they got too close to the object it would slowly accelerate, then rapidly accelerate and then move away from them and stop. Then they would take off after it again and the same thing would happen.

This game of cat and mouse reportedly went on for about 20 minutes and by this time Mr. Greenwood said 350 children and staff were watching on.

Suddenly the UFO shot away and vanished within seconds and it was at this point the headmaster came out and ordered everyone to go back to class.

Over the years there were reports that the government tried to cover up the incident and stop witnesses from talking, but Mr. Greenwood claimed it was the headmaster who first tried to squash discussion of the incident.

He gave the school a lecture and told the children they would be severely punished if they talked about this matter and told the staff they could lose their jobs if they mentioned it at all, Dr. McDonald said.

The teacher claimed the headmaster was so scared and disturbed by the incident that he had refused to come outside until the object was gone.

When the Royal Australian Airforce contacted the headmaster he told them to go and jump in a lake, Dr. McDonald said.

There have been claims from several witnesses that sharply dressed men in black suits visited them and warned them from speaking about the incident.

This lines up with a few experiences Mr. Greenwood had when he tried to speak with other witnesses about what they saw.

At the time of seeing the UFO he was a complete skeptic himself. He had never even considered the possibility of their existence, Dr. McDonald said.

When he asked the physical education teacher to describe what she had seen herself so that he could compare it with his own observation, she just wouldnt say anything.

He then reportedly spoke to one of the older students who described the event in great detail exactly as he had seen it, but when he spoke to her again half an hour later she wouldnt say a word.

Mr. Greenwood didnt think it had anything to do with the headmasters threats as no one usually took him seriously and he knew for a fact that the student he spoke with didnt attend the meeting where he had made the threats.

Dr. McDonalds description of his interview with Mr. Greenwood offers a rare insight into the events from the eyes of someone who was an adult at the time.

There continues to be speculation over what actually happened and the site of the encounter has been turned into a memorial park to reflect the 1966 Westall UFO Incident.

This story originally appeared in news.com.au.
Scientists believe we could soon cross a climate threshold leading to extreme heat and catastrophic, rising seas in the decades and centuries to come.

A study from a team of international climate researches concludes that the planet may be headed toward Hothouse Earth conditions with global temperatures four or five degrees higher than pre-industrial levels and sea levels 30 to 190 feet higher.

Although these conditions sound extreme or something out of a science-fiction movie, the researchers write that once temperature increases hit a certain tipping point (in this case, a global rise of 2 degrees Celsius), a destructive feedback would be created, thus driving temps up even more.

EARTH'S SOIL IS HYPERVENTILATING DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE

Each year, the Earths forests, oceans and land soak up about 4.5 billion tons of carbon that would otherwise end up in the atmosphere adding to temperature increases.

However, as the Earth gets warmer these so-called carbon sinks could themselves end up spewing more carbon into the atmosphere.

These tipping elements can potentially act like a row of dominoes. Once one is pushed over, it pushes Earth towards another. It may be very difficult or impossible to stop the whole row of dominoes from tumbling over. Places on Earth will become uninhabitable if 'Hothouse Earth' becomes the reality, co-author Johan Rockstrom, former executive director of the Stockholm Resilience Centre, said in a statement.

The potential feedbacks include permafrost thaw, a loss of methane hydrates from the oceans floor, dieback of the Amazon rainforest and a loss of Arctic summer sea ice.

We are the ones in control right now, but once we go past 2 degrees, we see that the Earth system tips over from being a friend to a foe. We totally hand over our fate to an Earth system that starts rolling out of equilibrium, he added.

CLIMATE CHANGE STRENGTHENS EARTH'S 'HEARTBEAT' - AND THAT'S BAD NEWS

Despite the dire warnings, and not all scientists agree that conditions would get this bad. The study's authors note that a reorientation of human values, behavior and technology toward being stewards of the planet can still preserve a habitable climate for future generations. They maintain that a transition to an emissions-free world must proceed quickly.



Climate and other global changes show us that we humans are impacting the Earth system at the global level," co-author, Katherine Richardson, of the Center for Macroecology, Evolution and Climate at the University of Copenhagen, said in a statement. "This means that we as a global community can also manage our relationship with the system to influence future planetary conditions. This study identifies some of the levers that can be used to do so.
A new invasive tick species described as an aggressive biter has been found in a number of U.S. states, sparking concern from agriculture and health officials.

The Haemaphysalis longicornis, better known as the longhorned tick, is native to the Asia-Pacific region. Predominant hosts include humans, poultry, livestock, wild rodents and birds, according to scientists.

The New York Times reports that the longhorned tick is the first new tick species to arrive in America in 50 years.

TENNESSEE WOMAN BITTEN BY BROWN RECLUSE SPIDER IN ALLEGED INFESTED APARTMENT TO MOVE

It was found for the first time in the U.S. late last year, when it was identified on a sheep in Hunterdon County, N.J.

Recently, the tick has also been found in Union and Middlesex Counties in New Jersey, as well as from a calf in Albemarle County in Virginia and cattle in Hardy County in West Virginia, explained the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, in a note.

Additionally, the tick has been identified in Warren County, Va., as well as in Arkansas and at multiple locations in Westchester County, N.Y., according to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa. The longhorned tick has also been found on an opossum in Polk County, N.C.

It is a serious pest of livestock in its native regions and the means of introduction into the U.S. is unknown, explained the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, in a recent statement.

Its presence in N.C. signals the need among livestock producers and residents for greater awareness, surveillance, and tick control management. It is an aggressive biter and frequently builds intense infestations on animals causing great stress, reduced growth and production, and blood loss.

TICKS HATE A PESTICIDE THAT MIMICS CHRYSANTHEMUMS

In addition to Eastern Asia, the tick is also a threat to livestock in Australia and New Zealand, where it is known as a bush tick.

While the longhorned tick has not been linked to any human infection in the U.S., the N.C. Division of Public Health is working with NCDA&CS [North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services] to understand its distribution and monitor for diseases it may carry, officials added.

The New York State Departments of Health and Agriculture and Markets noted that the tick has transmitted disease to humans in other parts of the world, but said that more research is needed to determine whether this can happen in the U.S.

Regardless, New Yorkers should continue to take steps to protect themselves, their children and their pets against ticks and tickborne diseases that are present in New York State, it said.

LYME DISEASE SPREADS TO ALL 50 STATES, REPORT FINDS

Human diseases transmitted by the tick in Asia include spotted fever rickettsiosis, a bacterial infection that ranges from mild to life-threatening. The New York Times reports that the biggest threat from the longhorned tick is a phlebovirus that causes Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS), an emerging infectious disease described as a haemorrhagic fever.

The disease has become a substantial risk to public health, not only in China, but also in other parts of the world, The Lancet reported in 2014.

The CDC provides advice on how best to remove a tick.

Follow James Rogers on Twitter @jamesjrogers
Former New England Patriots linebacker Jerod Mayo blasted a dog trainer on social media Monday after the Rhode Island SPCA discovered the old English bulldog dead in a closet at her apartment.

Mayo, who spent his entire eight-year career with the Patriots, posted a photo of his pet, Knox, along with a statement about dog trainer Amelia Ferreira on Instagram.

Unfortunately, the answers we prayed for regarding Knox arent ones we were ready to face, Mayo wrote on Instagram. Knox has passed and his BODY WAS FOUND IN THE HOME OF THE OFFLEASH TRAINER. Its disgusting and inhumane that a company full of dog lovers would hide a family pet IN A CLOSET FOR TWO MONTHS and compulsively lie and send us on a wild goose hunt and our kids on an emotional rollercoaster.

Mayos dog was initially reported missing in June after going on a walk with Ferreira at a park, according to Boston.com. Ferreira called Wrentham police and officers search the area, but didnt locate Knox. The dogs collar was later found on a trail. Ferreira reportedly changed her story and said Knox had disappeared from his crate in her apartment.

The Rhode Island SPCA revealed in a statement Knox died while the dog was with Ferreira. The trainer intentionally concealed his body from authorities, the organization said. Mayo accused Ferreira of sending him and his family on false leads while searching for Knox.

We raised Knox like our child, as you guys can see from our photos and those of you who know us. It hurts to have to accept that our beloved Knox was thought of as trash as they saw our family hurting, Mayo said.

Ferreira is facing obstruction charges, according to Mayo. Additional charges could follow after a necropsy is completed, according to the Rhode Island SPCA.

Mayo joined the Patriots in 2008 afer being drafted out of Tennessee. He plated in 103 games for New England and recorded 11 sacks and 535 total tackles.
Senior Army leaders are now advancing and refining plans to speed up development and delivery of a new faster, more-lethal and high-tech Future Vertical Lift aircraft currently slated to be operational by the 2030s.

FVL is an Army-led joint program to build a family of next-generation aircraft to begin emerging in the 2030s, consisting of attack, utility and heavy-class air assets. Ultimately, the FVL effort seeks to replace the Apache, Black Hawk and Chinook.

Left on its current path, 2030s is what we are looking at. The Army leadership desires to get this sooner. That is why a Cross-Functional Team is being stood up to figure out what needs to be done, Maj. Gen. John Ferrari, Director, Program Analysis and Evaluation, G-8, told Warrior Maven in an interview earlier this year.

With technology demonstrations already well-underway, the service is working on Initial Capabilities Documents intended to outline weapons applications and a new tech-demonstrator drone to support the aircraft, senior Army developers said. .. (stay tuned for Warrior Maven detailed reports on this)

The current development strategy, which involves the construction of initial demonstrator aircraft from Bell and Boeing-Sikorsky teams, seeks to both leverage the most promising and cutting edge near-term technologies while engineering systems also able to align with longer-term plans. Rapid prototyping and experimentation are fundamental to this evolving process, Ferrari explained.

Weve got the worlds greatest helicopters. Now, the big decision is when do we bring in new technology and how it fits into the long-term plan, Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. James McConville, told a small group of reporters earlier this year.

Requirements for a medium utility FVL helicopter, include building a new aircraft able to reach airplane-like speeds while retaining a helicopter-like ability to hover and maneuver in close proximity with enemy ground forces.

Army plans also seek an aircraft able to reach speeds greater than 230 knots, hover in thin air at 6,000-feet and 95-degrees Fahrenheit, achieve a combat radius of at least 434 kilometers and be configured to include emerging sensors and mission equipment technologies likely to emerge by the 2030s.

As part of this equation, the future aircraft is intended to be able to use fuel-efficient engine technology to allow an aircraft to travel at least 800 kilometers on a single tank of fuel. Such an ability will enable the aircraft to operate more easily one a single mission without needing Forward Arming and Refueling Points, or FARPs.

The idea is to engineer and aircraft able to fly from the west coast to Hawaii without needing to refuel.

A faster, more maneuverable helicopter that can fly farther on one tank of fuel would enable forces in combat to more effectively engage in longer combat operations such as destroying enemy targets or transporting small groups of mobile, lethal ground fighters. The new helicopter will also be designed to use next-generation sensors to find enemies on the move and employ next-generation weapons to attack them, Army officials describe.

Other key areas of technical exploration, McConville elaborated, include examinations of aerodynamics, aircraft configurations, new sensor technology and the physics of advanced helicopter flight.

We will have to see where the technology is in order to determine what is feasible, Ferrari said.

Bell & Sikorsky-Boeing Designs

The Bell offering, called the V-280 Valor, seeks to advance tilt-rotor technology, wherein a winged-aircraft with two rotor blades over each wing seeks to achieve airplane speeds and retain an ability to hover and maneuver like a helicopter.

The V-280 Valor is designed to be slightly bigger than an existing Black Hawk helicopter and use 24-inch seats to carry 11 passengers with gear, Bell developers said. The V-280 Valor has already been flown and extensively tested; Bell has most recently presented a weapons/attack variant. (..stay tuned for Warrior Maven V-280 Valor profile..)

Bell intends to build upon and advance existing tiltrotor technology such as that which is currently operation in the Bell-Boeing V-22 Osprey aircraft. The Osprey has two rotating rotor blades which align vertically when the aircraft is in helicopter mode and then move to a horizontal position when the aircraft enters airplane mode and reaches speeds greater than 280 knots.

The V-280 Valor also has two propellers which rotate from horizontal airplane mode to a vertical position, which allows for helicopter mode. Bell officials have said their new aircraft will be able to reach speeds of 280 knots. Bell and Army officials explain that their V-280 Valor substantially advances tilt-rotor technology.

The V-280 Valor uses a straight wing versus a V-22 which is not straight. Bell is also building additional flapping into the rotor system and individual controls that should allow for increased low-speed maneuverability, Army and Bell developers added.

Officials say the Osprey continues to perform well in a wide range of missions and has been selected by the Navy to perform the Carrier On-board Delivery or COD mission transporting troops, equipment and weapons on-and-off surface ships.

The Sikorsky-Boeing demonstrator, called the SB>1 Defiant, uses a coaxial rotor system configuration. This is a design structure, referred to as a compound configuration, which relies upon two counter-rotating rotor blades on top of the aircraft and a thrusting mechanism in the rear.

To make a rotorcraft go fast you have to off-load the rotor lift onto something else or else you run into problems when you try to reduce the speed of that rotor. Typically, you do that with a wing but Sikorsky-Boeing came up with a lift-offset design, an Army FVL program manager told Warrior Maven last year.

The pusher-prop on the back of the aircraft is a small propeller behind the counter-rotating rotor heads. It is what can give the aircraft airplane-like speeds. It operates with whats called positive and negative pitch, allowing the aircraft to lean up or down and move both forwards and backwards, according to written materials from Boeing.

Welcome to Warrior Maven's Future Vertical Lift Series: STAY TUNED

Part I - Speeding up FVL & Vision for Program

Part II - Army FVL Technology Plans, Future Weapons, Sensors & Helicopter Technology

Part III - FVL & Autonomy, Drones - Manned, Unmanned Teaming & Fly-by-Wire Tech

Part IV - Bell's V-280 Valor Tiltrotor Takes Flight - Adds F-35-like Sensors, Integrates Weapons for Attack Variant

More Weapons and Technology - WARRIOR MAVEN (CLICK HERE)
One former British Airways staffer is speaking out against the carrier, claiming he was "discriminated against" and ultimately fired for his man bun hairstyle.

The Sun reported Monday that new hire Sid Ouared said he had no idea his "trendy" hairstyle broke protocol until the last day of a two-week training for a customer service role with the airline, which sparked a conflict with his supervisors that ultimately led to the termination of his employment.

"I got fired from British Airways because I have a man bun, which according to them doesnt comply with their uniform policy, the 26-year-old Londoner told the outlet. The fact that they dismissed me for being a man with long hair is ridiculous and sexist. They have discriminated against me.

Ouared told ITV News that the decision made him feel "bullied" and "violated."

'WORST PASSENGER EVER' JAILED AFTER PUNCHING FLIGHT ATTENDANT IN GROIN

"They basically said cut it, put it in a turban like a Sikh, or turn it into dreadlocks like a Rastafarian, he further divulged. I am not any of those things and I can't believe that they would make me wear my hair like something that I am not."

Ouared said that hes previously worked with lots of luxury retailers who have never had qualms about his hairdo, adding that British Airways would never have made such a statement to a female employee.

"Right now we live in multicultural Britain. We live in the age of equality and we should be open minded, he said. But this stuffy old airline wont allow me to have my hair as I like it."

Representatives for British Airways returned Fox News request for comment with the following statement: We dont comment on employment matters relating to individuals.

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According to the most recent dress code guidelines available online for British Airways staffers, male employees must wear their hair clean, tidy, well-groomed and neatly styled so that it remains in place whilst working.

Mens hair styles must not touch the shirt collar at the back or sides. Furthermore, staffers handling food, drink or using machinery must observe extreme care regarding the length of hair and personal care. Hair must not fall over the face when leaning forward.

The uniform regulations state that ponytails are only permitted to secure dreadlocks for men.
A Northern California tow-truck driver who told undercover agents that he wanted to carry out an ISIS-inspired Christmas Day bombing at San Franciscos popular Pier 39 was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. ONeill issued the sentence Monday, which came after Everitt Aaron Jameson of Modesto, California, admitted under a plea deal in June that he tried to aid a terrorist organization.

Jameson could have received 40 years in prison.

The 27-year-old planned the attack during talks with undercover FBI agents, including one he thought was with the Islamic State terror group.

Jameson told undercover federal agents that he planned to use pipe bombs to channel victims into part of Pier 39 so he could shoot them. He also offered to provide money to the cause.

In December, through an 11-page affidavit, FBI special agent Christopher McKinney alleged that Jameson espoused radical jihadi beliefs on social media, as Fox News previously reported. According to the agent, Jameson liked and loved ISIS-related social media posts, including one that threatened a Christmas attack in New York City.

McKinney said Jameson attended Marine basic training in or about June 2009, and graduated several months later. Jameson trained as a sharpshooter, but later was discharged for failing to disclose a history of asthma.

Defense attorney Charles Lee has said his client was having second thoughts, and didnt take steps to carry out the plot.

Investigators found no bomb-making materials, and three firearms found during a search were owned by his stepfather, and locked away in a place he couldnt access.

Jameson was arrested Dec. 22.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A California chapter of the American Red Cross apologized Monday night after the organization claimed it erroneously sent out evacuation alerts to Fontana residents.

The Desert to Sea chapter, which serves Riverside, Orange and San Bernardino counties, seemingly issued the evacuation warnings on Monday afternoon local time, according to screenshots posted by the Fontana Police Department.

The chapter apologized on Twitter and said to "disregard these notices & follow [the Fontana Police Department] for any evac info in the immediate future as we work to correct this issue."

False evacuation warnings were also issued July 26 in Shasta Lake as part of Carr Fire evacuations. The city's manager, John Duckett, said he told the county sheriff that police "made an error  somebody hit the wrong button."

President Trump has declared the wildfires in California a "major disaster" and roughly 200 active-duty U.S. Army soldiers are preparing to deploy to the state to help combat the blazes.
A filmmaker has described how he was threatened by members of Antifa while he attempted to film them destroying property near simultaneous protests in Berkeley, Calif. Sunday.

They basically confronted me, and said, Get out of here, the police arent here, so they cant help you, Ford Fischer told Fox News The Story Monday evening.

Fischer, the co-founder and editor-in-chief of livestreaming service News2Share, described that he followed a group of Antifa members, known as the Black Bloc, as they broke off from the main demonstrations at Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center Park.

Fischer posted cellphone footage to Twitter that showed rioters smashing the windows of a U.S. Marine Corps recruiting office.

From across the street, I was able to film and zoom in really tight, said Fischer, who added that after damaging the recruiting office, somebody threw a lit torch into a dumpster, basically trying to create a dumpster fire.

At that point, Fischer says, he was confronted by members of the Black Bloc, and told to leave, which he did.

Frankly, I have no doubt that I would have been hurt had I not left, he told Fox News' Sandra Smith.

Berkeley Police said 20 people were arrested at the dueling demonstrations between Antifa and members of the so-called alt-right. Three people suffered minor injuries after a group of demonstrators threw explosives  believed to be fireworks and flares  at police and Alameda County Sheriffs officers.

Besides the damage to the Marine Corps post, Berkeley police also said, an extremist element among a large group damaged 21 city vehicles, setting one on fire, and slashed their tires. The group also set fires in trash bins, which quickly were extinguished.

The original protests had relatively little violence, Fischer said. It was a lot of people yelling at each other and arguing. Most of the violence and property destruction was this sea of Antifa-type individuals, who were participating kind of on the outskirts.

Fox News Sandra Smith and Travis Fedschun contributed to this report.
A cat was found mutiliated in Washington state on Sunday, marking the seventh gruesome death in the area since February of this year.

Harley, a somewhat feral 20-year-old tabby cat who was deaf, was found dead in West Olympia, Q13 Fox reported.

Thurston County's Joint Animal Services said Harley was the seventh cat found mutiliated and killed in the area in the past six months.

Another cat, Olly, was found dead on Friday roughly a mile away.

The deaths have all occurrred in either Olympia, Lacey or Tumwater.

CAT SURVIVES BEING STUCK IN CAR GRILLE FOR 9 DAYS

An officer with animal services told the news outlet the cats have been found cut open from their stern to genitals with their spines removed.

"I feel for the animal owners because I'm an animal owner myself and just the manner these animals have died is extremely horrific," Officer Erika Johnson said.

Authorities believe a serial cat killer may be to blame in the seven murders. A case from October is also believed to be connected, according to Q13.

One of the cats  Olly  reportedly fought back against her attacker. Johnson said she's sent samples from underneath the cat's slaws to a crime lab to check for the possible DNA of whoever killed her.

A $3,000 reward has been offered by Thurston County Joint Animal Services, Pasado's Safe Haven and Washington's Most Wanted for information about the suspected killer that leads to an arrest.

Anyone with information can call county animal services at 360-352-2510 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
The American Civil Liberties Union is suing the U.S. government over its effort to restrict immigrants from seeking asylum on the grounds that they would suffer domestic or gang violence in their countries of origin.

The ACLU's lawsuit Tuesday asks a judge to invalidate Attorney General Jeff Sessions' June 11 memo that tightened the restrictions on what kind of cases qualify for asylum. The group is representing 12 parents and children who it says were wrongly found not to have a credible fear of return.

Sessions has repeatedly accused immigrants of cheating the system to make specious asylum claims. He said in June that the system was "being abused to the detriment of the rule of law."
An alleged major drug trafficker known as "Reaper," who's accused of being a kingpin in the brutal MS-13 gang, told a judge life in lockup is unbearable and complained about a lack of phone access and the "discrimination" he faces at a New York county jail.

Miguel Angel Corea Diaz, 35, begged State Supreme Court Justice Patricia Harrington to intervene while he's locked up in Nassau County, Newsday reported Monday. Corea Diaz claimed he was suffering.

Discrimination. Im suffering in this county. They call me El Chapo. Die, scary guy, the so-called East Coast leader of the notorious gang told the court he had received a lot of death threats from outside the jail.

Corea Diaz was charged with three counts of operating as a major drug trafficker and five counts of second-degree conspiracy. He pleaded not guilty to the crimes in April. The district attorneys office had told the court Corea Diaz reported directly to the gangs leaders in El Salvador.

In front of Harrington on July 31, however, Corea Diaz painted himself as a loving father who misses his children, the paper reported.

Im a human being, I have a family. I have children. Im not able to talk to them, he said. Its about time that I speak to them because when I get deported, I dont know if Im going to be able to speak to them again.

Corea Diaz is locked in his jail cell for 23 hours a day and has limited phone access, his lawyer Scott Gross told the judge, adding The conditions have been unbearable.

In response to Corea Diazs pleas, Harrington said she had no control over where the jail houses inmates, but would look into getting him more phone access.

Corea Diaz, a Salvadoran national, faces 25 years to life in prison if hes convicted of the charges against him. Plea negotiations with Corea Diaz are ongoing, district attorneys office spokeswoman Miriam Sholder told Newsday. The district attorneys office in June offered Corea Diaz a plea bargain of 7 to 21 years in prison, the newspaper reported, citing court records. He would have to waive his right to appeal the conviction.

Corea Diaz was named in a January indictment that officials claimed was a major blow to MS-13s infrastructure.

MS-13 was started by Central American immigrants, mainly from El Salvador, in Los Angeles in the 1980s and has expanded to include Hondurans, Guatemalans, Mexicans and other Central and South Americans.

President Trump's Justice and Homeland Security Departments have made targeting the gang a top priority. The president himself has used the word "animals" to describe the gang.

Fox News Greg Norman contributed to this report.
Several California professors slammed the Berkeley Police Department after it posted the mugshots of Antifa protesters arrested Sunday at a rally where windows were smashed, citizens were punched and "dozens of weapons" were confiscated by cops.

Berkeley cops said Sunday that 20 people were arrested demonstrating against a rally organized by so-called "alt-right" groups. The mugshots of those arrested, their names and what they were arrested for allegedly doing was posted to the BPD's Twitter account -- a practice that is not unusual. The mugshots were posted before the protesters were formally charged. The department told The Guardian on Monday that the protesters' cases were not brought before prosecutors.

Veena Dubal, a law professor at the University of California, said she found it disturbing that the police department would post the mugshots and risk the possibility of putting the demonstrators in danger.

This is very disturbing, Dubal told The Guardian. It seems like a public-shaming exercise, which is not the role of the police department...They are making it really accessible for folks who might wish these people harm to locate them.

BERKELEY POLICE ARREST 20, SEIZE 'DOZENS OF WEAPONS' AT OPPOSING PROTESTS

Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguin said the police did a very good job handling the rally. But he said he spoke to police about the posting of mugshots on social media.

We need to look into this and discuss whether this is an appropriate practice going forward, Arreguin said.

The Sunday protest began after two groups of "alt-right" protesters announced plans for a "No to Marxism" rally at the city's Civic Center Park earlier in the week. That prompted plans for a "Sweep Out The Fascists" march and counter-rally that drew hundreds of people downtown.

Officials said three people suffered minor injuries after a group of "extremists" threw "explosives" -- believed to be fireworks and flares -- at police and Alameda County Sheriff's officers. No members of law enforcement were hurt.

Berkeley police also said that "an extremist element among a large group" damaged 21 city vehicles, setting one on fire, and slashed their tires. The group also set fires in trash bins, which were extinguished quickly.

Videos taken during the protest also showed masked Antifa protesters smashing the windows of a U.S. Marine Corps recruiting office and another demonstrator sucker-punching someone.

But Jay Kim, the executive director of the National Lawyers Guild local chapter, said he felt police were targeting anti-fascist protesters.

It really seemed to us like the Berkeley police department was there totarget the anti-fascist protesters, Kim said.

Kim said about 21 people contacted the NLG regarding the arrests, claiming the vast majority arrested were anti-fascist protesters.

Byron White, a spokesman for the Berkeley Police Department, defended the release of the mugshots.

People are coming from out of town and bringing weapons and are committed to violenceWe dont want people to be able to do that with anonymity, White said.

Fox News Robert Gearty contributed to this report.
Black Lives Matter activists filmed themselves crashing the wedding of one of the Sacramento police officers accused of fatally shooting Stephon Clark in March and then confronting him about how he sleeps at night.

The activists filmed themselves walking into a room, where a group of men were sitting at a table eating. One member of the group was heard asking the black man, presumed to be the officer, at the end of the table when he started planning his wedding. The officer was reportedly with his groomsmen at the time of the video.

Black Lives Matter has named the officer involved in Clarks shooting but the Sacramento Police Department has not.

I was just wondering if you started planning your wedding before you killed Stephon Clark or after and how youve been sleeping since March 18. And I know this is supposed to be the happiest day of your life but he will not have that opportunity ever. So we came here to drink wine and also just ask how youve been sleeping, the person said before he was whisked away by someone at the table.

MOLLIE TIBBETTS FATHER WARNS POSSIBLE ABDUCTOR NOT TO ESCALATE THIS ANY FURTHER

Youre a murderer! another person was heard yelling in the video before it ended.

Clark, 22, died on March 18 after being shot by a police officer who responded to a call about someone breaking into cars. Police arrived at the scene and said they believed Clark was the suspect.

Clark ran when a police helicopter responded, then failed to obey officers orders. Police officers said they thought Clark was holding a gun when he moved toward them, but he was found holding only a cellphone.

Tanya Faison, the founder of Sacramento Black Lives Matter, told CBS Sacramento that the officers need to be approached in spaces where theyre a little more vulnerable.

Black Lives Matter activists said when they heard where the officers wedding would be held they planned the confrontation.

Were not violent, were not gonna give to them what they brought to our community, were not gonna hurt anyone but we are gonna make them uncomfortable, and they should because someone is dead, said Faison.

KEY FIGURE IN STACY BURNS MURDER MYSTERY ARRESTED IN STABBING AT MASSACHUSETTS HOME

When CBS asked Faison if the tactic went a bit too far, she responded, no, because hes gonna remember this day for the rest of his life.

The Sacramento Police Department said the two officers involved in the shooting have been assigned extra security. The officers have received death threats and are not working in a patrol capacity.

People may think that these officers are just going about their lives, but this is a very traumatic event for everyone, Sgt. Vance Chandler of the Sacramento Police Department said.

The shooting is under investigation.

Fox News Frank Miles contributed to this report.
The remains of a young child were discovered on the grounds of the New Mexico compound in which 11 kids were found abused and living in squalor, the Taos County Sheriff's Office revealed Tuesday.

Investigators found the remains on Monday morning, Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe said at a news conference. The child was found on the "inner portion of the compound," and the sheriff said that information law enforcement agencies obtained led them to a "good idea of a target location" of where to look for the child.

MOMS ARRESTED AFTER 11 CHILDREN FOUND IN 'FILTHY' NEW MEXICO COMPOUND WITH ARMED MUSLIM EXTREMISTS,' COPS SAY

Officials are waiting on an identification of the body, and can't positively say if it's the body of missing 3-year-old Abdul-ghani Wahhaj.

"We discovered the remains yesterday on Abdul's fourth birthday," Hogrefe said, appearing to fight back tears.

Abdul-ghani went missing in December 2017 and sparked the two-month investigation that led authorities to the "filthy" compound.

Five adults were arrested following a raid on the location, in which investigators discovered 11 children  ages 1 to 15  living in what Hogrefe described as "the ugliest looking, filthiest" conditions he's seen.

The boy's mother told authorities that her son suffered from seizures, couldn't walk because of severe medical issues, and required constant attention.

She told police that in December, the boy's father, 39-year-old Siraj Ibn Wahhaj  one of the five arrested on child abuse charges  took the boy on a trip to a park in Clayton County, Georgia, but never returned.

Documents made public in a court filing on Monday said the father told the boy's mother before he left Georgia that he wanted to perform an exorcism on the child because he believed he was possessed by the devil.

Upon a search of the New Mexico property, Hogrefe said investigators found Wahhaj armed with an "AR-15 rifle, five loaded 30-round magazines, and four loaded pistols, including one in his pocket."

Police said Sunday that investigators believed the missing boy was at the compound in recent weeks.

Fox News' Katherine Lam and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
One of the men arrested in the raid on a filthy New Mexico compound inhabited by a group believed to be "extremist of the Muslim belief" reportedly planned an exorcism on a 3-year-old boy and is the son of a controversial New York City imam linked to the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, 39, was among the five adults arrested when authorities on Friday searched the makeshift desert structure in Amalia, near the Colorado border. Officials said they found 11 children, ages 1 to 15, living in squalid condition there. The mothers of the 11 children  Jany Leveille, 35, Hujrah Wahhaj, 38, and Subhannah Wahhaj, 35  and Lucas Morton were also arrested.

The children were placed in protective custody.

Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe previously said the occupants of the compound were most likely heavily armed and considered extremist of the Muslim belief.

Wahhaj was already being sought by police prior to Thursdays raid in connection with the disappearance of his 4-year-old son Abdul-Ghani.

MOMS ARRESTED AFTER 11 CHILDREN FOUND IN 'FILTHY' NEW MEXICO COMPOUND WITH ARMED MUSLIM 'EXTREMISTS,' COPS SAY

In a warrant made public Monday, Wahhaj told the boys mother he wanted to perform an exorcism on his then-3-year-old son because he believed he was possessed by the Devil. The boy suffered from seizures and couldnt walk, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

Abdul-Ghanis mother reported her son missing in December after Wahhaj took the boy, who turned 4 on Monday, to the park in Clayton County, Ga., and didnt return. Wahhaj and the boy were last seen together about two weeks after the child was reported missing. The pair were involved in a car crash on I-65 in Alabama. Another five children and two adults were also with Wahhaj and the boy in a vehicle that was registered to Morton, CBS46 reported.

Wahhajs family background was already controversial prior to his arrest. Wahhaj is the son of a Brooklyn imam, also named Siraj Wahhaj, who was named by prosecutors as an unindicted co-conspirator in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, the New York Post reported. The elder Wahhaj, who heads Masjid At-Taqwa mosque, was a character witness in the trial for Sheik Omar Abdel Rahman, the notorious blind sheikh who was convicted in 1995 of plotting terror attacks in the U.S.

Hujrah and Subhannah Wahhaj, who is married to Morton, are Wahhaj Sr.s daughters. The younger Wahhaj is married to Leveille, the New York Post reported citing public records and statements the imam made in a January Facebook post.

Dear Brothers and Sisters, please make duas for the safe return of our children and grandchildren: Siraj, Hujrah, Subhanah Wahhaj, son in law Luqman (Lucas) Morton, and daughter in law Maryam (Jany) Leveille and their children (our 12 grandchildren). We believe they may be traveling together, the elder Wahhaj wrote.

On Friday, authorities were searching for Abdul-Ghani when they entered the compound, which was walled off by stacks of old tires, wooden pallets and other debris. A desperate plea for help sent to a Georgia investigator stated people inside were starving and needed food and water.

When police arrived, Wahhaj was armed with an AR-15 rifle, five loaded 30-round magazines, and four loaded pistols, including one in his pocket, according to Hogrefe.

The sheriff said the children had no shoes, wore dirty rags for clothing and "looked like Third World country refugees." He described the living conditions as the ugliest looking, filthiest hes ever seen.

Abdul-Ghani was not at the compound, but authorities believe the child was there in recent weeks. None of the occupants taken into custody provided any information on the childs whereabouts.

Wahhaj was scheduled to appear in court Tuesday on a Georgia warrant seeking his extradition to face a charge of abducting his son. Wahhaj and the four other adults also face neglect and child abuse charges. Morton was arrested on suspicion of harboring a fugitive.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The investigation into a group of starving children found in a desert compound in New Mexico took another dark turn Tuesday, when authorities said they found the remains of a young boy at the squalid property.

It's not yet certain the remains are of Abdul-ghani Wahhaj, who would have turned 4 on Monday.

But Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe indicated the body appeared to be that of a boy similar in age to Abdul-ghani, who suffers from seizures and was reported missing in December after his father said he was taking him to a park in Jonesboro, Georgia, south of Atlanta.

The father, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, had told his wife he wanted to perform an exorcism on the child, authorities said.

"We discovered the remains yesterday on Abdul's fourth birthday," Hogrefe said, appearing to fight back tears.

The search for Abdul-ghani led authorities Friday to the compound shielded by old tires, wooden pallets and an earthen wall studded with broken glass. It's located on the outskirts of Amalia, a tiny, remote town near the Colorado border marked by scattered homes, sagebrush and open plains.

Investigators said they found the heavily armed Wahhaj along with four other adults and 11 hungry children living in filthy conditions.

All the adults were arrested on suspicion of child abuse. Wahhaj is also is being detained on a Georgia warrant that seeks his extradition to face a charge of abducting his son. He was expected to appear in court Wednesday.

Authorities returned to search the compound after interviews on Friday and Saturday led them to believe the boy might still be on the property.

"We had a good idea of a target location to look for the child," Hogrefe said.

The Georgia arrest warrant said the boy suffers from severe medical issues including a defect caused by lack of oxygen and blood flow around the time of birth. His mother said he can't walk and requires constant attention.

At a news conference in Taos, Hogrefe described FBI surveillance efforts in recent months that included photographs of the compound and interviews. He said the images were shared with the mother of Abdul-ghani but she did not spot her son.

"I had no probable cause to get a search warrant to go onto this property," the sheriff said.

He said FBI officials were invited to the news conference but declined to attend. An FBI spokesman didn't immediately return a call seeking comment.

Hogrefe said the "breaking point" in seeking a search warrant came when Georgia authorities received a message that may have originated within the compound that children were starving inside.

It wasn't clear who sent the message or how it was communicated. Georgia detectives forwarded it to the Taos County Sheriff's Office.

Children ages 1 to 15 were rescued from the compound that had been under investigation for months. The sheriff said it appeared the children hadn't eaten for days.

Property owner Jason Badger said he and his wife had pressed authorities to remove the group that he said had built the compound on his acreage instead of a neighboring tract owned by Lucas Morton, one of the men arrested during the raid.

"I started to try and kick them off about three months ago and everything I tried to do kept getting knocked down," Badger said.

Court records show a judge dismissed an eviction notice filed by Badger against Morton in June. The records didn't provide further details on the judge's decision.

Tyler Anderson, who lives near the compound, believes the group had moved to the area to live off the grid, just as he had done.

Anderson said he had helped the newcomers install solar panels after they arrived in December. But he eventually stopped visiting the compound. He said the children at first played at neighboring properties but stopped in recent months.

The women, believed to be mothers of some of the children, have been identified as 35-year-old Jany Leveille, 38-year-old Hujrah Wahhaj, and 35-year-old Subhannah Wahhaj.

Jail booking photos show them wearing traditional Muslim veils or hijabs.

Aleks Kostich, managing attorney in the Taos County public defender's office, said the office was gathering information and assigning attorneys to the defendants. He declined to comment on their behalf, citing the early stage of the case.

However, he questioned the "legal sufficiency" of the criminal complaints filed against the men and women, saying they were vague.

"I'm not sure how much investigating has been done," he said. "I'm not sure how much law enforcement knows and how long they've known it for."

___

AP writer Kate Brumback in Jonesboro, Georgia, contributed to this report.
Nikolas Cruz, the suspected gunman behind the Feb. 14 massacre at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., shouted kill me as he sat alone in an interrogation room hours after he was taken into custody.

The 19-year-old said he wanted to die and that he deserved to die, while claiming he is haunted by a voice in his head that told him to "Burn. Kill. Destroy."

The Associated Press, along with other news outlets, sought the release of the 216-page heavily redacted transcript, which was disclosed Monday. A judge ruled last month that noncofession portions should be made public.

Cruz was taken into custody roughly two-and-a-half hours after he allegedy killed 17 people at the school. He faces the death penalty if convicted. Cruz's attorneys have said he would plead guilty in exchange for a sentence of life without parole.

During the more the 11 hours of questioning, Cruz made statements to Broward County detective about recent issues he was faced with, including the death of his parents and his penchant for killing animals.

Cruz, who described the voice as male and about his age, said it began after his father died about 15 years ago, but got worst when his mother died of pneumonia in November.

He said hes had to fight the voice from taking over, and that the only person he ever told about it was his brother.

"The voice is in here," he said, apparently pointing to his head. "And then it's me. It's just regular me trying to be a good person."

Cruz said the voice tried to get him to open fire at a park prior to the school shooting.

Also during the interrofation process, Cruz said he wanted to be an Army Ranger but failed the written test because I was stupid," and that he bought the AR-15 allegedly used in the Florida school shooting to feel safe.

Cruz also said he tried to kill himself by drinking because he was lonely, and with an over-the-counter pain reliever after his mom died.

After the interrogation was over, Cruzs brother, Zachary, was brought into the room.

The 18-year-old told his brother people think he is a monster, and asked why did you do this?

"You're not acting like yourself. Like, why? Like, we've ... this is not who you are. Like, come on. Why did you do this? This is ... don't even laugh at me," Zachary Cruz said.

"I'm sorry, dude," Nikolas Cruz replied.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A Florida sheriff on Monday responded to sharp criticism from the Rev. Al Sharpton for not arresting a white man who shot and killed an unarmed black man during a parking lot dispute last month.

Sharpton criticized Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri at a Sunday rally for Markeis McGlockton.

McGlockton was shot on July 19 by Michael Drejka in Clearwater, according to FOX13 Tampa Bay. Drekja told deputies he feared for his life and police at the time chose not to arrest him, citing the states Stand Your Ground law.

This case should not be tried in a parking lot of a convenience store, Sharpton said. It should be tried in a courtroom.

Gualtieri was asked about Sharptons comments Monday during a press conference for an unrelated investigation.

It's a bunch of rhetoric. I don't pay much attention to it, to tell you the truth. I wasn't there, and I don't really care what Al Sharpton has to say, Gualtieri said. Go back to New York. Mind your own business.

"Go back to New York. Mind your own business."  Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri

In a statement to the Tampa Bay Times, a spokeswoman for Sharpton compared the sheriffs comments to those of sheriffs out of the 1960s that used to call civil rights leaders invited in by victims, outside agitators.

Sharpton plans to keep coming back to Clearwater regardless of Gualtieris remarks.

Florida prosecutors said last week they will review the case. The Pinellas County State Attorney said there was no time frame for how long it will take to review the case and determine whether charges should be filed against Drejka.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A weekend bachelor party at a Georgia lake turned deadly when a man drowned during a competition to see who could stay under water the longest, officials said.

The Baldwin County Sheriff's Office told FOX24 the incident happened Saturday around 5:30 p.m. on Lake Sinclair, located about 90 miles southeast of Atlanta.

Witnesses told police 23-year-old Robert Bunsa of New Jersey was trying to see how long he could hold his breath.

Georgia Department of Natural Resources Cpl. Lynn Stanford told The Telegraph there were about 15 men at the bachelor party at the time of incident, and the group did not initially realize that Bunsa was still in the water.

He was missing for some time  over seven minutes, at least, before they realized, and one of the friends did dive down and pull him out, Stanford told the newspaper.

MOM ACCUSED OF DROWNING DAUGHTER HAD BEEN CLEARED OF ABUSE

A helicopter was called in to airlift Bunsa to the hospital for treatment, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Centers for Disease Control says in an factsheet on accidental drownings that, between 2005 and 2014, there were an average of 3,536 fatal unintentional drownings (non-boating related) annually in the United States  about ten deaths per day. The agency warns swimmers against trying to hold their breath for long periods of time underwater.

"This can cause them to pass out (sometimes called "hypoxic blackout or shallow water blackout) and drown," the CDC says.
Rudy Giuliani, President Donald Trump's lawyer, called the Chicago shootings this past weekend that resulted in 11 deaths and about 70 wounded the direct result of one party Democratic rule for decades.

The victims were between the ages of 11 and 63.

Giuliani took to Twitter to cast blame on Democrats. He advocated for Chicago mayoral candidate and former Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy to replace current mayor Rahm Emanuel.

Policing genius Jerry McCarthy can do for Chicago what I did for NYC, Giuliani wrote. He was one of the architects of Compstat. Slashed homicides over 70%. Tens of thousands of lives saved.

McCarthy, who plans to run against Emanuel next February, distanced himself from Giuliani. He called himself a proud Democrat who remains opposed to the misguided, divisive tone and policies of Donald Trump, while claiming Chicagos violence "lies squarely with Rahm Emanuel's weak leadership and failed policies."

Police on Monday attributed the dozens of shootings to gangs, the illegal flow of guns and sweltering August heat that drew more people outside.

The shootings that took place over the weekend happened mostly in poor neighbors on the West and South Sides, heavily populated with gangs, said Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson.

"It is the same people who are pulling the triggers," he said. "This is a small subset of individuals who think they can play by their own rules because they continue to get a slap on the wrist when we arrest them."

Roughly 200 protesters took to the streets of a North Side neighborhood just days before the killings to call for more resources to address the violence in poor areas. One organizer of the rally called on members of the black community to mediate truces between gangs in an effort to end the carnage.

Emanuel said the bloodshed is unacceptable to happen in any neighborhood of Chicago.

Our souls are burdened, he said. We are a better city.

In addition to pumping up McCarthy, Giuliani also took aim at Emanuel for fiddling while Chicago burns.

His legacy more murders in his city than ever before, he said in another tweet. Its only because of Democrat brain washing that he has even a chance of remaining.

Emanuel has yet to publicly respond to the Giulianis tweets.

Johnson pointed out that homicides are down in the city by roughly 20 percent from last year, however, Chicago still had more killings than New York and Los Angeles combined.

In 2017, Chicago had 650 homicides, down from 771 the year before.

No arrests have been made in the shootings, Johnson said.

City officials said new-crime fighting measures, technology that can instantaneously detect where gunfire came from as well as improved intelligence-gathering have helped curb the violence.

The dozens of shootings comes after at least seven people were killed and 32 wounded during Memorial Day weekend, according to the Chicago Tribune reported.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The gunman who opened fire at a Florida back-to-school cookout filled with more than 100 people -- including children -- remains hospitalized Tuesday, as the nation's prominent gun-rights group praised the actions of an armed bystander.

The gunman, who has not been named by Titusville Police, remains at the Holmes Regional Medical Center after being shot in the head, according to Florida Today.

The Titusville Police Department previously said in a news release the man was involved in a fistfight with another person at the Issac Campbell Park and left around 5:20 p.m. on Saturday -- only to return with a gun minutes later and start shooting.

A bystander, who was lawfully licensed to carry a firearm, then shot the gunman. Officials have still not released further details about the incident or identified the gunman or bystander.

We are extremely grateful that nobody else was injured in this incident, Deputy Chief Todd Hutchinson said in a statement. This suspect opened fire at a crowded public park. This could have been so much worse.

FLORIDA ARMED BYSTANDER STOPS GUNMAN AT CROWDED BACK-TO-SCHOOL EVENT AT PARK, POLICE SAY

The nation's largest gun rights group, the National Rifle Association, praised the actions of the bystander.

"After a man open fired at the back-to-school event in Titusville, Florida, an armed citizen drew his #firearm and stopped the #shooter," the NRA said in a tweet. "Thankfully, no-one was injured and this is another example of a good guy with a gun stopping a bad one."

Stepanie Fayson, whose daughter was at the park at the time, told WFTV the shooting sparked chaos.

"She heard the gunshot and she was running, and she said everybody was running over each other, Fayson told WFTV.

Titusville Police said the incident remains under investigation, but the bystander won't face charges because his actions were within the law, according to the preliminary investigation.
An Indiana woman was arrested Tuesday after she reportedly met with a teen at a state park to fulfill a "rape fantasy," and falsely told police she was attacked.

Maggie Wallace, 19, of Pendleton, was arrested for false informing, Fox 59 reported. She reported to police that she was attacked at Mounds State Park on July 3.

SOUTH CAROLINA MOTHER ARRESTED, CHARGED WITH HOMICIDE AFTER LEAVING NEWBORN IN TRASH BAG ON CAR FLOOR

Wallace claimed she was running through the park around 12:45 p.m. when a suspicious male knocked her to the ground and groped her.

After the alleged attack was reported, a 17-year-old male told police he met Wallace on "Whisper," an anonymous social networking app.

The teen told police he and Wallace planned to meet up at the park, and reportedly showed them screenshots of his conversations with her, which officials said corroborated his story.

The boy claims he reponded to her post, in which she said she was looking for someone to fulfill her "rape fantasy," the news outlet reported.

MAN WHO JUMPED OUT OF NYC RESTAURANT FREEZER WAS PREVIOUSLY CHARGED IN BOSTON MURDERS: REPORT

Wallace initially denied the teen's version of the story during a follow-up interview with police, but eventually admitted to what happened.

Wallace has since been released from the Madison County Detention Center on bond.

The Madison County Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond to Fox News' request for comment.
A New Hampshire man who's a key figure in the 2009 murder of his ex-wife was arrested for stabbing a man inside his Massachusetts home last month, police said.

Edward Burns allegedly stabbed a Mills man in the back with a 10-inch knife during an argument, Boston 25 News reported Monday. Witnesses told police the pair argued before Burns threatened to stab the man. The victim yelled back at Burns after getting stabbed, witnesses said.

Burns was charged in the July 18 stabbing, the station reported.

The grisly murder of Burns' wife, Stacey, shocked New Hampshire in 2009.

Stacey was found stabbed to death in her Wolfeboro home on Mothers Day. Burns was the central figure in her murder, but police never named him as a suspect.

She had a restraining order against Burns before her death, claiming he abused her. Stacey also alleged Burns once used the phrase "death before divorce," according to Boston 25 News.

Burns said he was at a party in Boston at the time of the murder, an alibi which had been backed up by a friend, according to ABC News.

No suspects have been named in the 2009 murder case.
The Latest on a man convicted of hate crimes after he fatally shot an Indian national and wounded two other men in a Kansas bar (all times local):

11:30 a.m.

A man has been sentenced to three consecutive life sentences on federal hate crime charges for killing an Indian immigrant and wounding two other men in a Kansas bar.

The Johnson County District Court had already sentenced Adam Purinton to life in prison for first-degree murder in the February 2017 shooting of 32-year-old Srinivas Kuchibhotla at a bar in Olathe. Kuchibhotla had stopped there for a drink with a co-worker who was wounded in the attack. A third man who intervened also was shot.

Purinton reportedly yelled "Get out of my country" at them.

He pleaded guilty in May to federal hate crime and firearm charges to avoid the death penalty. He admitted he shot Kuchibhotla and Alok Madasani because of their race and color.

On Tuesday, the federal court handed Purinton a further three consecutive life sentences.

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23:01 p.m.

A Kansas man who fatally shot an Indian immigrant and wounded another in a suburban Kansas City bar is scheduled to be sentenced Tuesday on federal hate crime charges.

Adam Purinton of Olathe agreed to a plea deal in May that recommended he be sentenced to life in prison on each of three hate crime charges, with the sentences to run consecutively.

Purinton reportedly yelled "Get out of my country" before killing 32-year-old Srinivas Kuchibhotla and wounding Kuchibhotla's friend, Alok Madasani, in February 2017. A third man who tried to intervene was wounded.

The attack raised fears that immigrants faced more violence after President Donald Trump's election and caused concern in India over safety in the U.S.

The 53-year-old Purinton is already serving a life sentence in Kansas for premeditated first-degree murder.
Legalized recreational marijuana has become a cash cow for Nevada  with the state raking in millions of tax dollars a month in pot sales and putting a dent on the black market.

Tax revenue gained from the plants legalization in July 2017 has far exceeded expectations, according to the Nevada Department of Taxation. Sales and tax collections have surpassed year-end estimates by 25 percent.

Initial forecasts showed expected revenue at about $5 million a month. In May, $7.1 million was collected, up from the previous high in March of $7 million.

Other states that followed suit are also seeing green. Alaska, in its first year of legalization, saw similar projections trounced. It has raked in $11 million  about $2 million over initial estimates.

Every successive state points to the previous states and Nevada is a good example of implementing medical and recreational programs in a responsible way, said Andrew Jolley, a dispensary owner and president of the Nevada Dispensary Association.

Nine states allow for recreational use, including the nations capital. Marijuana will be on the ballot in several states during the midterms this fall. But some still question whether legalizing marijuana is the right way for states to make money  and whether it encourages teen pot use.

The tax revenue from marijuana allows state and local governments to pump more money into programs that were lacking funding. In Nevada, a percentage of the revenue goes to public schools and education-backed initiatives, while in Alaska, revenue goes toward fighting recidivism rates among the states ex-cons.

Still, experts say there are other things to consider when legalizing marijuana.

Tax revenue is not the reason to make marijuana legal and regulated, its about public safety and public health. But the tax revenue is certainly a bonus and a lot of states see that and they want that benefit, said Mason Tvert, spokesman for the Marijuana Policy Project. Why send millions of dollars each year into the underground market when that could be going to state and local coffers and benefitting the populations of these states?

There are also concerns about how much to regulate  and tax  legal pot.

In Nevada, the pot is taxed at 30 percent. When Colorado and Washington rolled out tax frameworks, both were initially over 30 percent. But some think that a high rate will encourage users to head to the black market  which goes against the initial intent: to keep it in the legal marketplace.

I think were at that threshold. I think, if anything, we should lower taxes to ensure that the legal regulated economy and industry stays intact and continues to thrive, Jolley said.

Nevada also has strict regulations on its use. Public consumption is not allowed, leaving many tourists who visit Las Vegas with few places to use it.

Critics fear there will be a rise among young teen users, especially high school students. State law puts the purchasing age at 21, but legalization will bring more access. Jolley disputed that claim, citing Colorado data that showed a six year drop in use among younger teens.

Its no longer a rebellious thing to do, therefore, the younger teens tend not to do it as much, Jolley said.

Michigan has a ballot proposal that would legalize recreational use, if it passes. Several state legislatures are also considering legalization legislation this fall.

The domino effect could continue around the country. And advocates are optimistic.

Every year, were seeing these measures take another step forward, Tvert said. And weve reached a point where we do expect to see these laws pass in some of these states in the next 12 months.
Authorities in Wisconsin launched a manhunt Monday for the person who wounded a disc jockey at a local radio station in what appeared to be a targeted attack.

Sundays shooting at WORT-FM in Madison wasnt random or an act of violence against the media, police spokesman David Dexheimer said.

A masked gunman entered the radio station around 3 a.m. and opened fire on three people in one of the studios, police said. One DJ was wounded in the shooting. He was treated at a hospital and later released. The two others were not injured. All three were volunteers.

All three individuals ran into the control room before seeking shelter in the music library and calling 911, station officials said. The shooter fired a number of shots into the studio, Dexheimer told the Wisconsin State Journal. Pictures posted on the stations Facebook page showed bullet holes in the glass and siding.

The shooter and the victims weren't immediately identified.

Doug Holtz, the stations business director, said they were reviewing security practices after the incident.

We've changed out the codes on all our door locks. And we are reasserting (to staff) to keep those codes private, Holtz said.

A security camera used to monitor visitors isnt capable of recording and didnt capture the gunman, Holtz said.

The shooter entered the station during the transition between the midnight and 3 a.m. shows, station officials said. It was unclear whether the gunman knew the door code to get into the station or if someone held the door open for them.

The station was off-air following the shooting. The broadcast returned about six hours later.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A Texas police officer who vanished from his home last week was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, officials said.

Baytown police officer John Stewart Beasley, 46, was found dead Tuesday in a field three miles from his Cove residence, Chambers County Sheriff Brian Hawthorne said.

Beasley, a 23-year veteran of the police force, was reported missing Thursday and last seen walking away from his home. Its believed Beasley died the same day he was reported missing.

As far as his mental state, everybody has their ups and downs and who knows whether there may be some depression? But actually we feel like he has a lot of good things going on in his life, Hawthorne said.

The husband and father was in the middle of building a new house, according to KHOU-TV.

Several law enforcement agencies assisted Baytown police, including K-9 teams from League City and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, according to FOX26 Houston.
The father of missing college student Mollie Tibbetts told Fox News on Tuesday that if his daughter was kidnapped, the perpetrator needs to "turn yourself in" and "let Mollie go."

Rob Tibbetts told Shepard Smith his daughter did not just "get up and walk away" and that it's a very "logical scenario" that she is with someone.

"I do believe that every day that we don't find Mollie hurt or harmed, she's somewhere where we can get her home safe and sound," he said on "Shepard Smith Reporting."

Tibbetts pleaded with Mollie's potential kidnapper "to put an end to it."

MOLLIE TIBETTS' DAD: I BELIEVE SHE'S STILL ALIVE, AND WITH SOMEBODY SHE KNOWS

He continued, "To that person, you're probably very afraid. This isn't probably a situation that you anticipated. You don't know how to extricate yourself from this but the best thing to do at this point is to put an end to it ... Do not escalate this and do not miss out one more day. Let Mollie go and turn yourself in."

Tibbets also talked about the Snapchat that Mollie sent her boyfriend, which he received the last night she was seen alive.

"As far as I know he opened it at 10:00 p.m. but that doesnt mean she sent it at 10:00 p.m."

He said he didnt know if Snapchat was working with the authorities. "My concern was, based on previous episodes, weve seen that technology companies are reluctant to cooperate citing privacy issues."

The father added that he thought those companies would cooperate in such cases as his daughter's, when a victim's life may be "on the line."

The 20-year-old University of Iowa student vanished from the Brooklyn, Iowa neighborhood where she was staying on the night of July 18.

"There is a logical scenario where Mollie is still alive with someone and we can get her home," Tibbetts said.

Fox News' Cristina Corbin and Andrew Keiper in Brooklyn, Iowa, contributed to this report.
The father of missing Iowa college student Mollie Tibbetts warned Tuesday that whoever she may be with should not escalate this any further, as the reward for information leading to her safe return has swelled to more than $270,000.

Tibbetts, a 20-year-old University of Iowa sophomore, was last seen jogging in the Brooklyn, Iowa area on July 18. The search for her  which is approaching the 3-week mark -- has drawn national attention and her father, Rob, believes somewhere out there, someone made a horrible mistake.

You obviously dont want to harm Mollie so just let her go and then deal with the consequences of what youve done so far, but dont escalate this any further, he told "FOX & Friends" when asked if he has a message for a possible abductor.

Police in the rural Iowa city have been tight-lipped about details surrounding the investigation into her disappearance, and they have not named any suspects.

But they did reveal last week that they were focusing on trying to understand who Mollie Tibbetts is.

"The timeline is very important, obviously, to us, but it's also been very important to us to get to know Mollie and understand what's normal for Mollie, what's not normal for Mollie," Kevin Winker, the Iowa Department of Public Safetys director of investigative operations, said during a July 31 press conference.

Winker also said understanding who was in the area of Brooklyn on the evening of July 18 is important."

We dont know where Mollies at right now. Im not going to draw any conclusions about the circumstances of her disappearance other than it is not consistent with her past, he added.

Rick Rahn, a special agent in charge at the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, told Fox News earlier in the investigation they had received "zero information" indicating Tibbetts was a runaway or had a medical reason for her disappearance.

Rob Tibbetts, though, is holding out hope that Mollie is still alive.

I just think that because of the situation in Brooklyn, that everyone knows everyone, I just dont think that anyone set out to harm Mollie, he said Tuesday. And the longer we go without finding her, the more optimistic we are that she is with someone that doesnt want to harm her but doesnt know how to extricate themselves from this situation.
A North Carolina boy, who was robbed at gunpoint while manning his lemonade stand, will finally get the lawn mower he was saving for.

Lowe's donated a new riding lawn mower to the 9-year-old boy after the company heard about the childs scary ordeal that happened over the weekend. The boy was at his lemonade stand at a roundabout in St. Johns Forest development when a teenager wearing a camouflage hat walked up, pointed a gun at the childs stomach and demanded he hand over the money he'd earned, Union County police said.

The armed robber made off with $17, the money the boy planned to use to buy a lawn mower for his other side job, the boys father Philip Smith told FOX46.

NORTH CAROLINA BOY, 9, ROBBED AT GUNPOINT WHILE SELLING LEMONADE, COPS SAY

Smith also told the station the residents in the neighborhood have also been helping out by buying cups of lemonade by the hundreds on Sunday, less than 24 hours after the child was robbed.

"It feels great that the neighborhood came out. They have given him money, support. They gave him notes of encouragement they gave him letters. It's just great they came out in support of him," Smith said.

Authorities are still hunting for the teenage robber and asking neighbors for surveillance video that may have captured the incident. Investigators also discovered a camouflage hat, metal tin and a black BB gun in a wooded area near the scene of the crime.

"I think people are capable of a lot of things, but not robbing a child at a lemonade stand, that takes it to a new level," said Union County Sheriff's Office chief communications officer Tony Underwood.
The Iowa pig farmer who was being grilled by cops about the disappearance of 20-year-old college student Mollie Tibbets was asked to take a polygraph exam on Monday, but he reportedly refused.

I dont need to, said Wayne Cheney, speaking to the Des Moines Register.

Its stupid, he added, noting once again how he had nothing to hide.

The Poweshiek County pig farmer has uttered the statement repeatedly since being thrust into the spotlight last week after cops revealed that they had questioned him multiple times.

Tibbets, a University of Iowa student, went missing on July 18 after going for a jog through Brooklyn, IA.

Cheney, a Deep River resident, was taken down to a local fire station on July 31 and questioned by authorities for two hours about her disappearance. Investigators also searched his 70-acre farm, residence and cellphone.

I just thought it was a waste of time, Cheney told WHO-TV. But oh well.

Police officials have remained tight-lipped about their interest in Cheney, and they continued to do so on Monday.

As I had mentioned previously, were not in a position to say who is a suspect, who isnt a suspect or that there are suspects, explained Kevin Winker, director of investigative operations at the Iowa Department of Public Safety.

FBI agents reportedly visited Cheney on Monday at his home and asked him to take the polygraph, though its unclear what prompted the visit.

I dont know, he told the Des Moines Register, noting how he was surprised to see them.

Cheney has lived in Deep River his entire life and has had several run-ins with the law over the years. Court records show that he has been arrested for harassment and stalking  entering guilty pleas on two separate occasions.

Speaking to reporters last week, Cheney claimed that he didnt know the Tibbetts family and hopes Mollie is eventually found alive. Her loved ones believe she may be held captive somewhere.

If someone out there is holding Mollieyou can end it now before it goes any further, her father, Rob Tibbetts, said in a statement last Thursday.

The distraught dad told Fox News on Monday that he believed Mollie went willingly with someone she knows.

Click more from The New York Post
Detroit police allege that a murder suspect who was released after his case was botched 15 years ago is also being investigated as a suspect in homicides in two other states.

James Matthews, 65, is a suspect in two homicides in Michigan, three in Texas and one in New York, police told The Detroit News .

Authorities are investigating how a 2003 case against Matthews was mishandled after Detroit police arrested him for allegedly strangling a woman. Matthews was released from jail when a warrant against him wasn't filed within the required time frame of 72 hours.

Detroit detectives gathered enough evidence four months after Matthews' release to submit a murder warrant to prosecutors. But both police and prosecutors have said they don't know what happened to the case after that.

"He should have been charged years ago," said Detroit police Chief James Craig. "There's enough blame to go around: Prosecutors never did anything with the warrant request, and our detectives didn't follow up on it. The case just fell into a black hole."

Court records didn't list Matthews' attorney Tuesday. He's awaiting extradition from New York to Wayne County, where he faces a murder charge for the 2003 strangulation and an assault charge.

Police have linked Matthews' DNA to a sexual assault case in 2000, said Tracy Weinert, a Detroit officer. Weinert said Matthews and the victim knew each other, and he was arrested after the assault. But the victim never showed up to testify so she was deemed an uncooperative witness and he was released.

Officers contacted the victim in April and she agreed to testify. Weinert said it led to Matthews being charged with first-degree criminal sexual assault. He was also arrested in New York in April for a 2007 homicide, but a grand jury dismissed the charges.

"The victims are all black women in their 30s, and they were all strangled in abandoned houses," Weinert said.

He'll be extradited to Michigan within a few weeks, Weinert said.

"We believe (Matthews) is a serial killer who committed more murders after he should have been charged," Craig said. "It's a tragic situation."

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Information from: The Detroit News, http://detnews.com/
A Tennessee man's plan to propose to his girlfriend on a Florida beach almost failed when he lost the ring in the Gulf of Mexico.

For 45 minutes last Friday, Taylor Farrar of Sevierville, Tennessee, and his friends frantically searched for the plastic bag that held the ring, a bank card and a driver's license. The News Herald reports it washed up under the feet of Sandy Osborn who was visiting Panama City Beach from Florence, Alabama.

Osborn held onto the bag and happily handed it over when Farrar's friends asked if she'd seen it.

Farrar says he appreciates Osborn's honesty. He immediately proposed to girlfriend Cassandra Arn, who said yes.

Osborn says she cried during the proposal. And Arn invited her to the wedding.

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Information from: The (Panama City, Fla.) News Herald, http://www.newsherald.com
A Brazilian federal judge has ordered the country's border with Venezuela to be closed to migrants fleeing that country's economic meltdown, though the frontier has remained open while the government appeals the decision.

Judge Helder Barreto ordered the border closed until the northern state of Roraima can create the "humanitarian" conditions to handle the influx, Reuters reported. State officials told the news agency that more than 500 Venezuelans cross into Roraima on average every day.

The incursion has overwhelmed social services and led to homeless families sleeping in the streets amid rising crime and prostitution, among other concerns. The migration also has triggered an outbreak of measles; many Venezuelan refugees have not been immunized due to the breakdown of the health system there.

As part of his ruling, Barreto ordered the vaccination of all Venezuelans admitted to Brazil. He also suspended a local measure permitting the expulsion of Venezuelans who broke the law, as well as a decree requiring Venezuelan immigrants seeking medical and social services to have a valid passport.

However, he also ordered that the entry of Venezuelan refugees be halted until Roraima has reached an equal number of people entering the state and leaving for other parts of Brazil.

The Brazilian Air Force has flown approximately 820 Venezuelans out of the state's capital, Reuters added.

A border official told the news agency that hundreds of Venezuelan refugees continued to cross the border Monday.

Click for more from Reuters.
As trade tensions between the U.S. and China continue to escalate, Chinese officials announced Friday the country tested its first hypersonic flight vehicle capable of carrying nuclear weapons -- and allegedly able to penetrate any missile defense system.

The China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics, run by state-owned space contractor China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp, said it conducted a successful first flight test of the Xingkong-2, otherwise known as Starry Sky-2, state-tabloid Global Times reported.

The flight vehicle was launched at a target range in Northwest China with a multi-stage rocket before being released in the air, making "large-angle turning maneuvers," and achieving a top speed of Mach 6, or 4,563 mph, the academy said.

The aircraft then landed in a designated landing zone, where it provided researchers with "effective" test data.

The testhas laid a solid technological foundation for engineering applications of the waverider design, officials said in a statement to the South China Morning Post.

AIR FORCE, DARPA PLAN NEW HYPERSONIC VEHICLE

The Starry Sky 2, a waverider, is a hypersonic flight vehicle that uses shockwaves generated by its own flight in the air to glide at a high speed, and features a wedge-shaped fuselage.

Song Zhongping, a Chinese military expert, told The Global Times the test was a "breakthrough," and added the waverider can carry both conventional and nuclear weapons.

"The test showed that China is advancing shoulder-to-shoulder with the US and Russia," Song told the news outlet.

Song added that since the waverider flies so fast, it challenges current anti-missile defense systems designed to protect against slower cruise and ballistic missiles.

The test on Friday was the first time China publicly disclosed the development of the waverider. The U.S. and Russia have been researching and testing waveriders since 2010.

AIR-BREATHING ENGINE IN BOEING'S X-51A WAVERIDER MAY PAVE THE WAY TO MACH 20 PLANES

Chinese officials said the design of the Starry Sky 2 took three years to develop, according to China Daily.

Besides military use, an unnamed official told the Global Times the technology may be adapted to a civilian role, including in industrial transport.
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Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday threatened to kill corrupt police, including those accused of involvement in illegal drugs and other crimes, in an expletives-laden encounter on live TV.

More than 100 policemen, many of them facing administrative and criminal complaints including rape, kidnapping and robbery, were escorted to the presidential palace to meet Duterte, police officials said.

The national police, which Duterte once called "corrupt to the core," have been undergoing an internal cleansing since they were removed twice from the president's crackdown on illegal drugs last year due to reports of abuses. Duterte later allowed them to rejoin drug raids, partly because the small lead anti-narcotics agency lacks personnel and firepower to quell the drug menace.

"If you'll stay like this, son of a bitch, I will really kill you," Duterte told the policemen in the dressing-down broadcast by local TV networks.

The cases of some of the policemen will be reviewed, but Duterte warned, "I have a special unit which will watch you for life and if you commit even a small mistake, I'll ask that you be killed."

Addressing the policemen's families, Duterte said, "If these sons of bitches die, don't come to us yelling 'human rights, due process' because I warned you already."

Such public threats, along with the more than 4,500 mostly poor drug suspects who have been killed in gunbattles with police under Duterte's anti-drug crackdown, have triggered alarm by Western governments and human rights watchdogs since he rose to power in mid-2016.

Duterte has vowed to press his campaign until the last day of his six-year term, often declaring that he is ready to go to jail, although he denies sanctioning extrajudicial killings. Police say nearly 150,000 drug suspects have been arrested and dozens of law enforcers have been killed in drug raids, proving the danger of battling illegal drugs, which remain a major problem.

The Bureau of Customs and anti-drugs authorities announced Tuesday night the discovery of about half a ton (1,100 pounds) of methamphetamine, locally called shabu, concealed in two steel cylinders in two abandoned container vans at Manila's international container port in one of the largest drug seizures under Duterte.

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency chief Aaron Aquino said the vans came from Malaysia, which a drug syndicate may be using as a transhipment point, but were never claimed at the Manila port because of stricter screenings.

Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapena warned that customs personnel linked to drug traffickers would eventually be arrested. "The fact that this did not get through this time is an indication that many no longer want to cooperate with the drug syndicates," he told reporters.

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Associated Press journalists Joeal Calupitan and Aaron Favila contributed to this report.
Syrias official news agency says the government is deploying ground troops preparing to launch an attack against ISIS forces in Suwayda Province in the southeastern portion of the country.

According to local media reports, ISIS has been eradicated from most parts of southern Syria and is operating from a small sliver of territory. Earlier this week, the Syrian military launched air strikes targeting remaining ISIS forces.

Last month, ISIS in what appears to be an act of desperation, killed more than 200 civilians and abducted more than two dozen mostly women and children from Suwayda. The attack is considered the deadliest in the predominantly government held province. Most of the victims are Druze, a minority group of about 700,000.

AS ISIS TARGETS DISAPPEAR IN IRAQ AND SYRIA, US MILITARY SHIFTS FOCUS BACK TO AFGHANISTAN

It is presumed the terror group wants to exchange their captives for captured ISIS fighters and for free passage to another part of Syria, but so far no demands have been made public. Syria ally Russia is reportedly involved in negotiations to free the hostages. Last week, ISIS beheaded a 19-year-old that the group had kidnapped.

In another development, the U.S.-led coalition in the last few days conducted 15 strikes targeting ISIS forces near the Syrian border with Iraq.
The Mossad, Israels famed spy agency, may have been behind the Saturday car bombing in the Syrian city of Masyaf that killed one of Demascus' most important rocket scientists, The New York Times reported on Monday.

The paper cited a senior official from an intelligence agency that focuses on the Middle East. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Israel has reportedly dismissed news reports in Syria and Lebanon that suggested its spies were behind the bombing.

The Times reported that the killing of Aziz Asbar was at least the fourth assassination attempt by Israel in the past three years on foreign soil.

Asbar was a major player in the country and had his own security detail, the report said. He worked on precision-guided missiles that could threaten Israeli cities.

The report said he most recently worked at Syrias low-technology arsenal of rockets. His reported goal was to improve the arsenal and make it more accurate.

The Mossad, long shrouded in mystery and mythology, is legendary in international intelligence circles for being behind what are believed to be some of the most daring covert operations of the past century. Only a few have come to light and often only years later. Asbar was reportedly being eyed by Israel for a while.

The Times reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman did not comment for the report. Only Netanyahu could order an assassination, the report said.

Every day in the Middle East there are hundreds of explosions and settling of scores, Lieberman told Israels Channel 2. Every time they try to place the blame on us. So we wont take this too seriously.

The Associated Press contributed to this report
The Latest on the migrant crisis in Europe (all times local):

3:25 p.m.

A British jury has convicted a gang that was prepared to smuggle Albanian migrants across the English Channel using flimsy boats or even a jet ski.

Plot organizers Artur Nutaj and Sabah Dulaj facilitated the transport of migrants from France to the U.K. A group based in Kent in southeastern England provided the vessels to transport the migrants, who were charged 6,000 pounds ($7,700) each.

Central Criminal Court jurors convicted the pair, together with Wayne Bath, Albert Letchford, Leonard Powell and Alfie Powell after a nine-week trial. Another man, George Powell, pleaded guilty earlier.

Investigators say the gang was dangerously incompetent and tried to cross the busy shipping channel at night without lights, radar or maritime experience.

Authorities moved in to stop the gang before the jet ski could be used.

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1:15 p.m.

European Union law enforcement agency Europol says Spain's National Police have arrested seven people suspected of smuggling hundreds of migrants into France.

Europol says Tuesday the well-organized gang is believed to have brought about 300 migrants from French-speaking African countries to northern Spain and from there to France.

The U.N. Migration Agency says almost 24,000 migrants and refugees have arrived in Spain by sea this year  nearly three times the number last year.

The agency says Spain has become the most popular European destination for Mediterranean migrants, with just over 40 percent of the total.

Overall, the agency says almost 60,000 migrants and refugees have entered Europe by sea this year  a drop of just over half compared with last year.
Former President Tony Saca will plead guilty to accusations of embezzling hundreds of millions of dollars in government funds in return for a lighter sentence, his lawyers said Tuesday.

Attorney Lisandro Quintanilla said Salvadoran law allows for a more lenient punishment in view of a guilty plea.

Saca, 53, was arrested in October 2016 and accused of diverting $301 million in public money. He had faced up to 30 years in prison if convicted.

Under the deal, prosecutors will ask for Saca to get 10 years  five for embezzlement and five more for money laundering.

Prosecutors asked the court Tuesday for the shorter sentence and an abbreviated trial process in which the ex-president would formally enter a plea and which would skip the evidentiary phase.

Three associates also charged in the case, including his former private secretary and two ex-Cabinet secretaries, were also set to plead guilty and receive lesser sentences.

Saca, who was president in 2004-2009, did not respond to questions from journalists.

According to authorities, about $195 million of the misappropriated funds was diverted as cash that was later transferred to bank accounts and businesses, including some belonging to Saca.

Jorge Cortez, head of the financial investigation unit of the prosecutor's office, said authorities are still trying to determine where that money ended up due to the difficulty of tracing cash.

Cortez added that officials also anticipate seizing between $25 million and $35 million in assets and property.

Three more defendants are not covered by the deal, but their lawyers said they would seek a similar agreement.

Saca is one of three consecutive ex-presidents to be accused of illicit enrichment or diversion of public resources while in office.

Francisco Flores, who was president in 1999-2004, died of a stroke while under house arrest, and Mauricio Funes, who was in office in 2009-2014, is a fugitive from Salvadoran justice who was granted asylum in Nicaragua.
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A luxury yacht allegedly bought with money stolen from the multibillion-dollar looting of a state investment fund arrived Tuesday at a Malaysian port.

The $250 million Equanimity, seized by Indonesia off Bali in February in cooperation with the U.S. FBI, was handed over to Malaysian authorities on Monday at the Indonesian island of Batam near Singapore.

The U.S. Justice Department, one of several foreign agencies investigating money stolen and laundered from the 1MDB fund, had listed the yacht among assets it could seize and sell to recover stolen funds. Following the handover of the yacht to Malaysia, the Justice Department has sought to suspend legal proceedings to determine what Malaysia plans to do with the vessel.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has thanked Indonesian authorities for returning the yacht, saying it belongs to Malaysia because it was bought with money stolen from the 1MDB fund. Officials have said the yacht will be sold to the highest bidder to recover the stolen fund.

Najib set up 1MDB when he took power in 2009, but it accumulated billions in debts. The 1MDB scandal led to his shocking electoral defeat in May and Najib is now facing charges.

Malaysian and international authorities want to question Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho, who the Justice Department alleges was a key figure in the theft and international laundering of $4.5 billion from 1MDB. U.S. investigators said Low, known widely as Jho Low, bought the yacht with proceeds diverted from 1MDB.

Low, who has so far evaded arrest, issued a statement through his U.S. attorney on Monday protesting the handover of the yacht as an "illegal act" for ignoring court proceedings in the United States.

In filings to a California district court Monday, Low's lawyers also opposed the U.S. government's bid to suspend court proceedings. Low has urged the court to direct the U.S. government to state efforts it has made to secure the vessel and to find out Malaysia's intentions by Aug 17.

Mahathir has said anyone who wants to claim ownership of the yacht must show proof that the vessel was not bought with stolen funds.

"We want to know where they obtained so much money to buy such an expensive yacht," he said in a Facebook video on Monday.

The Equanimity's lavish amenities include a helicopter landing pad, plunge pool, gymnasium and a cinema. It was built in 2014 by the Dutch yacht manufacturer Oceano, which received detailed instructions from Low about its outfitting, according to the Justice Department's asset recovery case.
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Soldiers have pulled a man alive from the rubble of a large mosque flattened by an earthquake on the Indonesian island of Lombok, while thousands of homeless locals waited for aid Tuesday and stranded tourists camped at beaches and in the lobbies of damaged hotels.

The north of Lombok has been devastated by the magnitude 7.0 quake that struck Sunday night, damaging thousands of buildings and killing at least 98 people. Rescuers were still struggling to reach all of the affected areas and authorities expect the death toll to rise.

Disaster officials have not said how many people they believe are buried beneath the ruins of the Jabal Nur mosque but a rescue worker told The Associated Press that about 50 people were praying inside when it collapsed.

Video shot by a soldier shows rescuers shouting "Thank God" as a man is pulled from a space under the mosque's flattened roof sometime on Monday and he staggers away from the ruins supported by soldiers.

"You're safe, mister," says one of the soldiers as emotion overcomes the man, clad in Islamic robes, and villagers crowd around him.

Disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said he hopes "a lot" of people can be saved from the mosque. Two people were rescued from the building Monday including a woman with a broken leg, said villager Supri Yono, and three were found dead.

"We're forced to deal with broken bones in the traditional way at home because the hospital had to deal with hundreds of other injuries," said Budhiawan, the head of Lading-Lading village.

Rescuers were using heavy duty cutting equipment on Tuesday to prize apart the tangled mound of debris.

Aid organizations, already on Lombok after it was hit a week earlier by a 6.4 quake that killed 16 people, said they were stepping up their humanitarian efforts.

Oxfam said more than 20,000 people were in temporary shelters and thousands more were camping out in the open. It said clean drinking water was scarce because of a recent spell of extremely dry weather in Lombok.

Hundreds of tourists and workers were still struggling to get off three outlying resort islands where power was cut off and hotels and hostels were damaged.

British tourist Saffron Amis, stranded on Gili Trawangan island, said she spent a second night outdoors as aftershocks rattled the region.

"We slept in a bungalow until another quake hit us at midnight and then we moved to the beach," she said.

At Lombok's airport, dozens of tourists slept on the floor as they waited for flights off the island. Many hotels closed because of damage but some allowed travelers to camp in their lobbies.

"That was my first experience with the earthquake and it was really terrible," said Lize Reert, a Belgian woman among the several thousand who fled Gili Trawangan. "It was a nightmare."

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Karmini reported from Praya, Indonesia.
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Again and again over the past two years, a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and backed by the United States has claimed it won decisive victories that drove Al Qaeda militants from their strongholds across Yemen and shattered their ability to attack the West.

Here's what the victors did not disclose: many of their conquests came without firing a shot.

That's because the coalition cut secret deals with Al Qaeda fighters, paying some to leave key cities and towns and letting others retreat with weapons, equipment and wads of looted cash, an investigation by The Associated Press has found. Hundreds more were recruited to join the coalition itself.

These compromises and alliances have allowed Al Qaeda militants to survive to fight another day  and risk strengthening the most dangerous branch of the terror network that carried out the 9/11 attacks. Key participants in the pacts said the U.S. was aware of the arrangements and held off on any drone strikes.

The deals uncovered by the AP reflect the contradictory interests of the two wars being waged simultaneously in this southwestern corner of the Arabian Peninsula.

In one conflict, the U.S. is working with its Arab allies  particularly the United Arab Emirates  with the aim of eliminating the branch of extremists known as Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP. But the larger mission is to win the civil war against the Houthis, Iranian-backed Shiite rebels. And in that fight, Al Qaeda militants are effectively on the same side as the Saudi-led coalition  and, by extension, the United States.

"Elements of the U.S. military are clearly aware that much of what the U.S. is doing in Yemen is aiding AQAP and there is much angst about that," said Michael Horton, a fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, a U.S. analysis group that tracks terrorism.

"However, supporting the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia against what the U.S. views as Iranian expansionism takes priority over battling AQAP and even stabilizing Yemen," Horton said.

The AP's findings are based on reporting in Yemen and interviews with two dozen officials, including Yemeni security officers, militia commanders, tribal mediators and four members of Al Qaeda's branch. All but a few of those sources spoke on condition of anonymity, fearing reprisals. Emirati-backed factions, like most armed groups in Yemen, have been accused of abducting or killing their critics.

Coalition-backed militias actively recruit Al Qaeda militants, or those who were recently members, because they're considered exceptional fighters, the AP found.

The coalition forces are comprised of a dizzying mix of militias, factions, tribal warlords and tribes with very local interests. And AQAP militants are intertwined with many of them.

One Yemeni commander who was put on the U.S. terrorism list for Al Qaeda ties last year continues to receive money from the UAE to run his militia, his own aide told the AP. Another commander, recently granted $12 million for his fighting force by Yemen's president, has a known Al Qaeda figure as his closest aide.

In one case, a tribal mediator who brokered a deal between the Emiratis and Al Qaeda even gave the extremists a farewell dinner.

Horton said much of the war on Al Qaeda by the UAE and its allied militias is a "farce."

"It is now almost impossible to untangle who is AQAP and who is not since so many deals and alliances have been made," he said.

The U.S. has sent billions of dollars in weapons to the coalition to fight the Iran-backed Houthis. U.S. advisers also give the coalition intelligence used in targeting on-the-ground adversaries in Yemen, and American jets provide air-to-air refueling for coalition war planes. The U.S. does not fund the coalition, however, and there is no evidence that American money went to AQAP militants.

The U.S. is aware of an Al Qaeda presence among the anti-Houthi ranks, a senior American official told reporters in Cairo earlier this year. Because coalition members back militias with hard-line Islamic commanders, "it's very, very easy for Al Qaeda to insinuate itself into the mix," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity under the terms of the briefing.

More recently, the Pentagon vigorously denied any complicity with Al Qaeda militants.

"Since the beginning of 2017, we have conducted more than 140 strikes to remove key AQAP leaders and disrupt its ability to use ungoverned spaces to recruit, train and plan operations against the U.S. and our partners across the region," Navy Cmdr. Sean Robertson, a Pentagon spokesman, wrote in an email to the AP.

A senior Saudi official commented by saying that the Saudi-led coalition "continues its commitment to combat extremism and terrorism."

An Emirati government spokesman did not reply to questions from the AP.

But on Monday, Emirati Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash tweeted that the UAE-backed counter-terrorism strategy is working. He said it had "removed" thousands of militants and deprived them of safe havens.

AQAP is "at its weakest since 2012," he wrote, adding that the UAE and its allies "have all lost troops in the fight."

The coalition began fighting in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis overran the north, including the capital, Sanaa. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are determined to stop what they consider a move by their nemesis, Iran, to take over Yemen, and their professed aim is to restore the internationally recognized government of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi.

Al Qaeda is leveraging the chaos to its advantage.

"The United States is certainly in a bind in Yemen," said Katherine Zimmerman, a research fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. "It doesn't make sense that the United States has identified Al Qaeda as a threat, but that we have common interests inside of Yemen and that, in some places, it looks like we're looking the other way."

Within this complicated conflict, Al Qaeda says its numbers  which U.S. officials have estimated at 6,000 to 8,000 members  are rising.

An Al Qaeda commander who helps organize deployments told the AP that the front lines against the Houthis provide fertile ground to recruit new members.

"Meaning, if we send 20, we come back with 100," he said.

The well-known commander communicated with AP via a secure messaging app on condition of anonymity because he had no authorization from the group to talk to the news media.

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The Associated Press reported this story with help from a grant from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting.

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A FAREWELL DINNER FOR AL QAEDA

In February, Emirati troops and their Yemeni militia allies flashed victory signs to TV cameras as they declared the recapture of al-Said, a district of villages running through the mountainous province of Shabwa  an area Al Qaeda had largely dominated for nearly three years.

It was painted as a crowning victory in a months-long offensive, Operation Swift Sword, that the Emirati ambassador to Washington, Yousef al-Otaiba, had proclaimed would "disrupt the terrorist organization's network and degrade its ability to conduct future attacks."

The Pentagon, which assisted with a small number of troops, echoed that promise, saying the mission would weaken the group's ability to use Yemen as a base.

But weeks before those forces' entry, a string of pickup trucks mounted with machine guns and loaded with masked Al Qaeda militants drove out of al-Said unmolested, according to a tribal mediator involved in the deal for their withdrawal.

The U.S. has killed Al Qaeda's top leaders in a drone strike campaign that accelerated in recent years. But in this victory  as in the others touted by the coalition  the mediator said armed U.S. drones were absent, despite the large, obvious convoy.

Under the terms of the deal, the coalition promised Al Qaeda members it would pay them to leave, according to Awad al-Dahboul, the province's security chief. His account was confirmed by the mediator and two Yemeni government officials.

Al-Dahboul said about 200 Al Qaeda members received payments. He did not learn the exact amounts, but said he knew that 100,000 Saudi rials ($26,000) were paid to one Al Qaeda commander  in the presence of Emiratis.

Under the accord, thousands of local tribal fighters were to be enlisted in the UAE-funded Shabwa Elite Force militia. For every 1,000 fighters, 50 to 70 would be Al Qaeda members, the mediator and two officials said.

Saleh bin Farid al-Awlaqi, a pro-Emirati tribal leader who was the founder of one Elite Force branch, denied any agreements were made. He said he and others enticed young Al Qaeda members in Shabwa to defect, which weakened the group, forcing it to withdraw on its own. He said about 150 fighters who defected were allowed into the Elite Force, but only after they underwent a "repentance" program.

The clearing of Al Qaeda from Shabwa and other provinces did not completely take place without fighting. Clashes erupted in some villages, usually with Al Qaeda remnants that refused to play ball.

One former Al Qaeda member told the AP that he and his comrades turned down an offer of money from the Emiratis. In response, he said, an Elite Force squad besieged them in the town of Hawta until they withdrew.

Overall, deals that took place during both the Obama and Trump administrations have secured Al Qaeda militants' withdrawal from multiple major towns and cities that the group seized in 2015, the AP found. The earliest pact, in the spring of 2016, allowed thousands of Al Qaeda fighters to pull out of Mukalla, Yemen's fifth-largest city and a major port on the Arabian Sea.

The militants were guaranteed a safe route out and allowed to keep weapons and cash looted from the city  up to $100 million by some estimates  according to five sources, including military, security and government officials.

"Coalition fighter jets and U.S. drones were idle," said a senior tribal leader who saw the convoy leaving. "I was wondering why they didn't strike them."

A tribal sheikh shuttled between AQAP leaders in Mukalla and Emirati officials in Aden to seal the deal, according to a former senior Yemeni commander.

Coalition-backed forces moved in two days later, announcing that hundreds of militants were killed and hailing the capture as "part of joint international efforts to defeat the terrorist organizations in Yemen."

No witnesses reported militants killed, however. "We woke up one day and Al Qaeda had vanished without a fight," a local journalist said, speaking to AP on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals.

Soon after, another accord was struck for AQAP to pull out of six towns in the province of Abyan, including its capital, Zinjibar, according to five tribal mediators involved in the negotiations.

Again, the central provision was that the coalition and U.S. drones cease all bombings as AQAP pulled out with its weapons, the mediators said.

The agreement also included a provision that 10,000 local tribesmen  including 250 Al Qaeda militants  be incorporated into the Security Belt, the UAE-backed Yemeni force in the area, four Yemeni officials said.

For nearly a week in May 2016, the militants departed in trucks. One of the mediators told the AP that he threw the last of the departing fighters a farewell dinner among his olive and lemon orchards when they stopped at his farm to pay their respects.

Another mediator, Tarek al-Fadhli, a former jihadi once trained by Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, said he was in touch with officials at the U.S. Embassy and in the Saudi-led coalition, keeping them updated on the withdrawal.

"When the last one left, we called the coalition to say they are gone," he said.

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'WE WILL UNITE WITH THE DEVIL'

To think of Al Qaeda as an international terror group is to miss its other reality. For many Yemenis, it is simply another faction on the ground  a very effective one, well-armed and battle-hardened.

Its members are not shadowy strangers. Over the years, AQAP has woven itself into society by building ties with tribes, buying loyalties and marrying into major families.

Power players often see it as a useful tool.

Hadi's predecessor as Yemen's president, long-ruling strongman Ali Abdullah Saleh, set the model. He took billions in U.S. aid to combat Al Qaeda after the 9/11 attacks, even as he recruited its militants to fight his rivals. Hadi's current vice president, Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar, a military chief for decades, also has been accused of enlisting jihadis.

In that light, it would almost be more startling if the militants were not involved against the Houthis, especially since Al Qaeda militants are extremist Sunnis seeking the defeat of the Shiite rebels.

Al Qaeda militants are present on all major front lines fighting the rebels, Khaled Baterfi, a senior leader in the group, said in a previously unpublished 2015 interview with a local journalist obtained by the AP.

Last month, Baterfi said in a Q&A session distributed by Al Qaeda that "those at the front lines for sure know of our participation, which is either actual fighting with our brothers in Yemen or supporting them with weapons."

Al Qaeda has reduced attacks against Hadi's and Emirati-linked forces because assailing them would benefit the Houthis, Baterfi said.

The branch is following guidance from Al Qaeda's worldwide leader, Ayman al-Zawahri, to focus on fighting the rebels, another top AQAP member said in written answers to the AP.

In some places, militants join battles independently. But in many cases, militia commanders from the ultraconservative Salafi sect and the Muslim Brotherhood bring them directly into their ranks, where they benefit from coalition funding, the AP found. The Brotherhood's Yemen branch is a powerful hard-line Islamic political organization allied to Hadi.

Two of the four main coalition-backed commanders along the Red Sea coast are allies of Al Qaeda, the Al Qaeda member said. The coalition has made major advances on the coast, and is currently battling for the port of Hodeida.

Video footage shot by the AP in January 2017 showed a coalition-backed unit advancing on Mocha, part of an eventually successful campaign to recapture the Red Sea town.

Some of the unit's fighters were openly Al Qaeda, wearing Afghan-style garb and carrying weapons with the group's logo. As they climbed behind machine guns in pick-up trucks, explosions from coalition airstrikes could be seen on the horizon.

An AQAP member interviewed in person by the AP in May viewed the video and confirmed the fighters belonged to his group. His affiliation is known from his past involvement in AQAP's rule over a southern city.

The impact of the intertwining of Al Qaeda fighters with the coalition campaign is clearest in Taiz, Yemen's largest city and center of one of the war's longest running battles.

In the central highlands, Taiz is Yemen's cultural capital, a historic source of poets and writers and educated technocrats. In 2015, the Houthis laid siege to the city, occupying surrounding mountain ranges, sealing the entrances and shelling it mercilessly.

Taiz residents rose up to fight back, and coalition cash and weapons poured in  as did Al Qaeda and Islamic State militants, all aimed at the same enemy.

One liberal activist took up arms alongside other men from his neighborhood to defend the city, and they found themselves fighting side by side with Al Qaeda members.

"There is no filtering in the war. We are all together," said the activist, who spoke on condition of anonymity. He said commanders received weapons and other aid from the coalition and distributed it to all the fighters, including Al Qaeda militants.

Abdel-Sattar al-Shamiri, a former adviser to Taiz's governor, said he recognized Al Qaeda's presence from the start and told commanders not to recruit members.

"Their response was, 'We will unite with the devil in the face of Houthis,'" al-Shamiri said.

He said he warned coalition officials, who were "upset" but took no action.

"Taiz is in danger," al-Shamiri said. "We will get rid of the Houthis and we will be stuck with terrorist groups."

The activist and officials in the city said one of the main recruiters of Al Qaeda fighters is Adnan Rouzek, a Salafi member tapped by Hadi to be a top military commander.

Rouzek's militia became notorious for kidnappings and street killings, with one online video showing its masked members shooting a kneeling, blindfolded man. Its videos feature Al Qaeda-style anthems and banners.

Rouzek's top aide was a senior Al Qaeda figure who escaped from a prison in Aden in 2008 along with other AQAP detainees, according to a Yemeni security official. Multiple photos seen by the AP show Rouzek with known Al Qaeda commanders in recent years.

In November, Hadi named Rouzek head of the Taiz Operations Rooms, coordinating the military campaign, and top commander of a new fighting force, the 5th Presidential Protection Battalion. Hadi's Defense Ministry also gave Rouzek $12 million for a new offensive against the Houthis. The AP obtained copy of a receipt for the $12 million and a Rouzek aide confirmed the figure.

Rouzek denied any connection to militants, telling the AP that "there is no presence of Al Qaeda" in Taiz.

Another coalition-backed warlord is on the U.S. list of designated terrorists due to his ties to Al Qaeda.

The warlord, a Salafi known as Sheikh Aboul Abbas, has received millions of dollars from the coalition to distribute among anti-Houthi factions, according to his aide, Adel al-Ezzi. Despite being put on the U.S. list in October, the UAE continues to fund him, al-Ezzi told the AP.

The aide denied any links to militants and dismissed his boss's designation on the U.S. terror list. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that "Al Qaeda has fought on all the front lines alongside all factions."

Right after the AP team spoke to him in Taiz, the team saw al-Ezzi meeting with a known senior Al Qaeda figure, warmly hugging him outside the home of another former AQAP commander.

Aboul Abbas runs a coalition-funded militia controlling several districts in Taiz. A 2016 video produced by Al Qaeda shows militants in black uniforms with Al Qaeda's logo fighting alongside other militias in districts known to be under his control.

A former security official in Taiz said militants and Aboul Abbas' forces attacked security headquarters in 2017 and freed a number of Al Qaeda suspects. The officer said he reported the attack to the coalition, only to learn soon after that it gave Aboul Abbas 40 more pick-up trucks.

"The more we warn, the more they are rewarded," the officer said. "Al Qaeda leaders have armored vehicles given to them by the coalition while security commanders don't have such vehicles."

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Wilson contributed from Washington. Keath contributed from Beirut. AP correspondent Desmond Butler also contributed to this report.
The United States and the European Union said Tuesday that they are seeking details about the arrest of women's rights activists in Saudi Arabia, but they sidestepped a sensitive diplomatic dispute over the crackdown between the ultraconservative kingdom and Canada.

Saudi Arabia expelled the Canadian ambassador Monday and froze "all new business" with Ottawa over criticism of its arrest of women's rights activists. Analysts say the dispute shows Saudi Arabia will reject any outside criticism and continue to flex its muscles abroad, especially as the kingdom enjoys a closer relationship with President Donald Trump.

Describing both countries as "close partners" of the U.S., the State Department on Tuesday referred inquiries about the spat to the Saudi and Canadian foreign ministries.

But it said it has asked the Saudi government "for additional information on the detention of several activists" and that it urges Riyadh "to respect due process and to publicize information on the status of legal cases."

Questioned in Brussels about the tensions, European Commission spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said that "we have been seeking clarification from Saudi authorities" over a number of arrests since May.

She said the European Commission wants to understand the allegations against the activists and to ensure they receive a fair trial.

On the diplomatic dispute, Kocijancic said that "we don't comment on bilateral relations." She said "we are in favor of a dialogue."

The dispute appears centered around tweets by Canadian diplomats calling on the kingdom to "immediately release" detained women's rights activists.

Among the arrested activists is Samar Badawi, whose writer brother Raif Badawi was arrested in Saudi Arabia in 2012 and later sentenced to 1,000 lashes and 10 years in prison for insulting Islam while blogging. He won Europe's top human rights prize in 2015.

His case long has been raised by international human rights groups and Western diplomats, including Canadians, who have called on Saudi Arabia to free him. His wife, Ensaf Haidar, lives in Canada and received Canadian citizenship in July.

It's not the first time Saudi Arabia has lashed out diplomatically over the Badawi case. In 2015, Riyadh recalled its ambassador to Sweden and stopped issuing work visas for Swedes after the EU member country's foreign minister described the Badawi court decision as "medieval" and the kingdom's ruling Al Saud family as presiding over a "dictatorship."

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Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report.
Despite Tehrans repeated denials of arming Shiite Houthi rebels in war-torn Yemen, government and military officials insist President Trumps withdrawal from the landmark Iran nuclear deal has had an immediate impact in helping bring the four-year conflict at least a step toward closure.

There is still some support. but we have seen it drop since the U.S. pulled out, Abd-Rabbo Moftah, deputy governor of the Yemen city, of Marib told Fox News. Any way that support from Iran is lessened, is helpful in stopping the war. The Houthis were feeding on this deal, and legitimacy.

Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak, Ambassador of Yemen to the U.S. and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, said that after talks started between the U.S. and Iran on the deal during the Obama administration, Iran subsequently stepped up its military and financial support for the Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Nevertheless, the clear-eyed President Trumps Iran strategy, along with withdrawing from the Iran deal and demanding that Iran cease its destabilizing behavior in the region, has made clear to Iran and its proxies in Yemen that meddling in the region will not be overlooked again, Mubarak said. He added that as a result of these strong and positive signals, Iranian-backed Houthi rebels are beginning to engage more with the peace process.

So withdrawing from the Iran deal will definitely contribute to the end of the war in Yemen, he said.

The Yemen conflict has largely been seen as a proxy war by the international community, framing Yemen as a battleground between Sunni-dominant Saudi Arabia and its Shiite nemesis, Iran. In March 2015, a Saudi-led coalition launched a bombing campaign to defeat the Iranian-aligned Houthis, who the year before had taken over swaths of territory. That territory included the capital, Sanaa, which they still control.

But multiple military sources running clandestine operations from Saudi Arabia also asserted that in the months since the Iran deal exit, Houthis have become somewhat more fractured.

Tehran knows they have an economic fire to deal with in their own country now, one official observed, indicating that their focus has thus since shifted a little more inward to domestic issues rather than external affairs, like Houthi support.

HOUTHIS EXPLAIN 'DEATH TO AMERICA' SLOGAN, REVEAL WHAT WILL BRING THEM TO PEACE TALKS

YEMEN'S CHILD SOLDIERS FACE LONG ROAD AFTER SEXUAL, PHYSICAL ABUSE

THE FIGHT FOR YEMEN'S CAPITAL FUELED BY DRUGS, WITCHCRAFT AND FIERCE FIRE

Early in the conflict, the Houthis controlled some 85 percent of Yemeni territory. But according to satellite imagery, that percentage has since reversed. Despite Iranian support, Houthis officials insist their behind-the-scenes role has been carefully orchestrated for some time.

When the war started, there was an average of four to six airplanes leaving from Tehran and landing in Sanaa airport and we did not know what was inside, Moftah claimed. And then after several attacks, we noticed the missiles being used were not local missiles.

He also noted that in the long-running Houthi stronghold of Sa'dah city, Houthis as far back as 2005 were being explicity recruited by Iranian forces and taken into the country for training and covertly returned.

This was all part of building up to the stage that we are now in here, Moftah said. Tehrans goal is to have control over Yemen, like we have seen happen in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon.

Western experts insist a steady stream of weapons used in the fight can be traced from Iran, including ballistic missiles that have been used on several occasions to target neighboring Saudi Arabia.

Coalition intelligence reports demonstrate the missiles were likely smuggled from Iran into Sa'dah in three or four separate parts, to evade detection. And the UK-based Conflict Armament Research (CAR) has documented at least seven interceptions of Qasaf-1 UAVs since late 2016, which they have traced to the Ababil-II family of unmanned aerial vehicles, produced specifically by Irans Aircraft Manufacturing Industrial Company (HESA).

Cargos of support to Houthis is often transferred to dhows or small fishing boats from Iranian ships that sail in the region, explained Fatima Alasrar, a senior analyst at the Washington-based Arabia Foundation. Such small dhows are not often easily spotted as they integrate easily with fishing dhows around Mukalla as these small vessels are common in the waters.

Yemen Army Commander Yahya Hatemi, who helms the Naham Mountain outpost in the Sanaa govornate on the periphery of the Houthi-controlled capital city of the same name, said his forces have found vast traces of Iranian equipment and missiles in areas recently cleared.

We know the Yemen military, we know the equipment they had before 2015, Hatemi said. And we know whats knew and what wasnt there before and the differences in missiles and mines they have now.

According to the U.S. State Department, there is little doubt over the breadth of Irans role.

We are well aware of and concerned about Irans continued support for Houthi forces in Yemen. These actions are destabilizing to regional security and only serve to perpetuate the conflict, the official said. We continue to work with our partners and allies to disrupt Irans material and financial support to militant and terrorist groups in the region.

In May, the U.S. imposed sanctions on five Iranians it alleged had provided Yemens Houthis with weaponry and expertise it then used to launch missiles at Saudi Arabia.

But others argue Irans involvement in Yemen is likely only to increase further as fallout from the aborted nuclear agreement as they seek to entrench their clout in the region.

It is naive to say Iran is not involved heavily, one high-ranking Middle East intelligence source involved in facilitating peace negotiations between the two warring factions said. But there is concern they will become more involved. The longer the war is prolonged, the more sectarian it will become.

The source told Fox News that the Houthis dont like to be publicly linked to Iran and want to project the image they are in complete control. But there is little doubt that at least some strings are being pulled from abroad.

Mohamed Abdel Salam, the spokesman for the Houthi group - known officially as Ansar Allah - acknowledged their Tehran ties but dismissed claims Iran was arming and funding them. He accused Saudi Arabia and its allies of exaggerating Irans influence as propaganda to justify their military intervention.

This was used by Saudi Arabia and its allies as justification to convince the west that Yemen became another Iran or part of Iran, Salam told Fox News. But we dont deny that we have a contact with Iran. We dont deny that we have injuries and patients, Yemeni patients, receiving treatment in Iran. We dont deny that we have satellite channels being operated from Beirut but this doesnt mean this is an Iranian influence. This is a result of the Saudi handling or neighboring countries headed by Saudi. When they close all doors to Yemenis, Yemenis went to other doors and knocking.

Salam claimed not a single Iranian has been identified inside Houthi territory, and said evidence of Iranian weapons is based on hearsay.

They havent killed any Iranians inside Yemen, so it is all very ambiguous. We should also bear in mind Yemen has always been a hub for weapons. Weapons are not strange things for Yemenis.

The ongoing conflict has left more than 10,000 dead, tens of thousands more wounded, and spiraled into what the UN has deemed the worlds worst humanitarian crisis - of which both sides are to blame.




"Ive seen myself argue endlessly for the value of something, and for that thing to never be taken seriously until a man or a player said it."

- An anonymous former employee speaking to Kotaku about the work culture at Riot.

In a recent interview with Kotaku, several current and former Riot employees discuss the toxic workplace environment which ultimately drives women out of the studio.

Fellow devs should note that several sources spoke to Kotaku over the past few months, and each one came to the same consensus around what makes Riot a hostile environment for some of the women who work there: the culture.

According to these sources, the feedback culture at Riot rewards men and demeans women.

Kristen Fuller, who departed Riot back in March, explains she got interrupted a lot. Its hard to get a word in edgewise, she says. Ive been talking and someone else starts talking and starts to talk louder when I dont stop. A lot of men dont take no for an answer.

Another former employee, who remains anonymous, describes how her largely-male division often insulted her after she refused to do secretarial work, despite her non-secretary position. I feel like that type of working environment caters to men, she explains.

When I went to a stand-up meeting itd be a lot of men talking over each other. I knew a lot of women were used to being interrupted or not feeling comfortable talking over men. I didnt feel like I had the ability to talk over them, she adds.

The apparent double standard for women within the company have made the culture of aggression worse. Ive seen myself argue endlessly for the value of something, and for that thing to never be taken seriously until a man or a player said it, echoes a former employee.

Women who do speak up and follow Riot's on-paper ideals are reprimanded, often told that they're being too loud and emotional. Male employees who spoke to Kotaku agreed that Riots feedback culture wasnt built to support women.

The company dismisses feedback when it comes to gender, explains a male employee. Riot is a new upstart company whose explicit mottos are Challenge convention and Feedback culture. To not see that reflected in the way Riot addresses social issues feels extra bad.

However, it's worth noting that there are women within Riot who are actively trying to work on improving the conditions expressed by current and former Rioters. Soha El-Sabaawi, who leads diversity and inclusion initiatives at Riot, explains how shes training leaders at Riot to recognize different personality types in meetings and empower marginalized groups, including women.

"We are trying to create touchpoints with Rioters about what good feedback looks like," El-Sabaawi says. "Just because we have an open feedback culture doesnt just mean you can send someone a lot of super harsh feedback without context.

Additionally, Katie Chironis, a senior narrative designer who has been at Riot for two months, echoed El-Sabaawi's statements in a tweet about working to cultivate a better environment for women at the studio.

"To all the women out there who were ever hurt by men above them, who were denied promotions, spoken over, harassed, objectified, or insulted, I have been you at some point in my past, and i stand in solidarity with you."

The investigative piece was part of a longer interview around the workplace culture at Riot, so be sure to read it in its entirety over at Kotaku.

Update: After this story was published a Riot Games representative contacted Gamasutra to provide the following statement:
Gamasutra is part of the Informa Tech Division of Informa PLC

This site is operated by a business or businesses owned by Informa PLC and all copyright resides with them. Informa PLC's registered office is 5 Howick Place, London SW1P 1WG. Registered in England and Wales. Number 8860726.
Manuela "Mona" Rodriguez, of Long Beach was shot in the head by the safety officer, Eddie F. Gonzalez, on the afternoon of Sept. 27 about a block from Millikan High School, authorities said.
By Zhang Guijie, Meng Zhuolin and Liu Wei

BEIRUT, August 6 (ChinaMil) -- From August 1 to 3, local time, three detachments of the 17th Chinese peacekeeping force to Lebanon  the multifunctional engineer detachment, the construction engineer detachment, and the medical detachment  passed the UN equipment inspection with high standards for the first time since their deployment to the mission area.

The headquarters of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) sent an inspection team to examine the above three detachments equipment and materials separately for three successive days.

The inspectors listened to the Chinese peacekeepers briefing, examined their equipment on the spot and required them to give on-site demonstrations of operating their equipment. The inspection covered three major categories  major equipment, personal equipment, and self-sustainment services  and about 20,000 pieces/sets of equipment in 30 subcategories such as barracks facilities, vehicles, weapons, power and water purification equipment, and medical equipment.

Finally, the good conditions and excellent functions of the three detachments' facilities and supplies were highly praised by the inspection team.

This is the first time for the new batch of Chinese peacekeeping force to undergo the UN equipment inspection. Thank you for your careful preparation. You did a good job during the inspection and set high standards for the equipment inspection in the UNIFIL, said the head of the equipment inspection team in the UNIFIL.

According to the Memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the UN and the troop-contributing countries, the UN conducts comprehensive inspection and evaluation of equipment and facilities provided by these countries once per quarter, in order to find out whether they meet the demands of peacekeeping missions. The inspection results serve as the foundation for the UN to offer financial compensation to these countries for their peacekeeping equipment and facilities.

The 17th Chinese peacekeeping force to Lebanon was deployed to the mission area in May 2018. Over the following year, they will be mainly responsible for such tasks as landmine sweeping, explosive ordnance disposal, engineering construction, medical rescue, and humanitarian assistance.
Alarming numbers : Every fifth minor in Bonn beneath the poverty threshold

Bonn 11,605 children and adolescents and their families in Bonn are dependent on Hartz IV benefits, a financial support program for the unemployed. The number rose in comparison to the previous year again.

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The level of child poverty in Bonn is continuously alarming. According to statistics published by the Jobcenter, 11,605 children under 18 years of age are living in needs units - families who are dependent on transfer payments/aid money - said youth welfare office leader Udo Stein in an interview with the General-Anzeiger. The numbers show an increase of four percent.

There are 1,725 more children living in poverty situations now than in 2007. Stein traces this back to the phenomenon of a rich society, which could not be resolved despite applying considerable resources. As EU definition, a person is at risk of empoverishment if it has less than 60 percent of the medium income of the population. The poverty line for a family of four in 2017 in North Rine-Westphalia is currently 1,987 Euro per month, Stein explains.

This means that currently a fifth of all minors in Bonn are poor or threatened by impoverishment, claim Jean Pierre Schneider and Ulrich Hamacher, directors of the Caritas and the Diakonie associations in Bonn. No effective measures have been decided on by politicians on regional or federal levels to help families and their children to improve financially and lower their level of educational disadvantages.

The economic upturn does not help the poor. The lower income did not really rise. Child support is being deducted from Hartz IV recipients payments, so an increase in child support shows no effect, say Schneider and Hamacher. Other family-related benefits and tax relief plans are not, or only slightly, helping those families.

Poverty means social exclusion

As a result, children of single parents, or from families with many children, have the highest risk of poverty, said Stin. They are therefore particularly hit by housing shortages in Bonn, because they have to compete with more solvent families for the same apartments/flats where they often lose out. Schneider and Hamacher call this inherited poverty. Children, who were born into a poverty situation, have practically no chance to get out of this situation.

The health care for them can mostly not exceed the required check-ups. Poor children have less social contact, because they cannot keep up: Who would go to a childrens birthday party if they cant afford a present or can never invite the others to his or hers? Poverty leads to social exclusion, the two directors are convinced. Poverty threatens educational success and therefore chances on the job market.

Making future prospects possible

The most important aim for politicians, authorities and the many institutions, organisations and facilities in Bonn is to be obligated to help children in their future prospects, regardless of their background and social situation, according to Stein.

The city councils opportunities lay in offering educational prospects from kindergarten places for under-three-year-olds, school, after-school lunch support and adult education.

The round table against children and family poverty in Bonn has issued a demands paper, proposing effective measure on federal, regional and communal levels, said Schneider and Hamacher. Part of these demands are the introduction of a basic provision for children in the shape of 500 Euro per month, better equipment for the kindergartens, schools and youth workers with a focused support on disadvantaged children.
Cologne After two young girls (9, 13) drowned in the Rhine near Worms, another person disappeared in the river on Monday afternoon. The 46-year old went swimming despite being unable to do so and did not turn up again.

For 90 minutes the police kept searching for the 46-year-old man who disappeared in the Rhine in Cologne-Mulheim. According to police reports, the alarm was raised at 3.58pm after the man had gone swimming in the Rhine a good 15 minutes earlier and did not return. The police searched with helicopters, boats and on foot, helped by the fire brigade, for the man who his friends said was a non-swimmer. Prior to the incident the friends had partied at the river banks and drank alcohol.
TOKYO, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- About 1,400 firearms, 1,200 swords and 300 shells were found buried at an elementary school in western Tokyo, local officials said Monday.

The weapons were found buried about two meters under the ground of the Tanashi Elementary School in the city of Nishitokyo, Tokyo Metropolis.

The discovery was made on July 27 by workers during evacuation work for constructing a building at the school, and the weapons have been safely removed from the ground, said the officials.

The weapons were believed to have belonged to the Japanese army and were probably discarded there after the World War Two ended in 1945, according to the officials.

It's rather rare for such a large amount of weapons to be found buried at residential areas, said local media reports.

The local government said it will discuss with the police how to properly deal with the weapons.
Chinese and Belarusian participating special operations soldiers conduct flag raising ceremony during the Eagle Assault 2018. (81.cn/Photo by Qiu Chengliang)

JINAN, Aug. 7 (ChinaMil) -- Chinese and Belarusian special operations forces commenced the joint training entitled Eagle Assault 2018 at a comprehensive training base attached to the Northern Theater Command of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) in Jinan City of east China's Shandong Province on the morning of August 5, 2018.

During the launching ceremony, heads of the two delegations inspected the participating troops. After the ceremony, both sides exhibited some of their weapons and equipment and demonstrated such military training subjects as grappling and wrestling, climbing and fast-roping, confrontation shooting, sniping and so forth.

This joint training aims at improving special operations forces professional skills and counter-terrorism tactics, and involves 50 special operations soldiers respectively from each side. The Chinese participants come from a special operations brigade of the PLA 80th Group Army, while the Belarusian participants come from the Belarusian special operations forces.

Over the following 10 days, Chinese and Belarusian special operations soldiers will complete training subjects in mixed formation, including combat stamina, unarmed combat, parachute landing and fast-roping from the helicopter and so on.

The joint training by Chinese and Belarusian special operations forces is an important measure to deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries and enhance practical exchanges and cooperation between the two militaries.

Under the principles of "friendship, exchanges, cooperation, and security", the joint training highlights a number of features including special operations, innovation, counter-terrorism, and alliance, and focuses on tempering special operations soldiers will power, character, and fighting morale.

It is said that a comprehensive exercise will be organized at the later period of the joint training, together with cultural exchanges and other activities.

Special operations soldiers from China and Belarus attend the launching ceremony of the Eagle Assault 2018 joint training. (81.cn/Photo by Wu Zhongze)
Officers worked for hours Monday to unchain protesters as they occupied the property of a private prison company's corporate headquarters, shutting down Nashville-based CoreCivic's office building for the day.As of Monday afternoon, the Metro Nashville Police Department had arrested at least 19 of the few dozen protesters on trespassing charges, some of whom had locked themselves to cement-filled barrels to block parking garage entrances to the office."We have no intention of leaving," said the Rev. Jeannie Alexander from No Exceptions Prison Collective. "It's a nonviolent, peaceful resistance."Alexander said protesters "do not recognize this as private property," claiming the protesters by their actions had appropriated the grounds for the people of Tennessee.Alexander was later arrested and carried away, being loaded into a police van by her hands and feet.
Description

GIS 07 August, 2018: Government is committed to promote breastfeeding as an important public health intervention so as to make sure that every child born in Mauritius is given a good chance to survive, grow and develop into a healthy and strong young citizen. Government is committed to promote breastfeeding as an important public health intervention so as to make sure that every child born in Mauritius is given a good chance to survive, grow and develop into a healthy and strong young citizen.

This statement was made this morning by the Minister of Health and Quality of Life, Dr Anwar Husnoo, at Gold Crest Hotel in Quatre Bornes, during the opening of a one-day workshop and the launching of activities in the context of the World Breastfeeding Week 2018. He added that through an extensive network of primary and secondary health centres providing ante and post-natal care, women in Mauritius are encouraged as well as counseled to initiate and sustain breastfeeding as per World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations.

Dr Husnoo announced that in a bid to enhance better monitoring of breastfeeding practices, the drafting of a breastfeeding action plan is currently in progress. Furthermore, a breastfeeding committee will be set up in all five regionals hospitals across the island. Breastfeeding corners have also been set up in many health service points to provide privacy and comfort to breastfeeding mothers, he underlined.

Speaking about the multiple benefits of breastfeeding for both newborn babies and their mothers, Minister Husnoo pointed out that breast milk has been tested for years and is the best source of nutrition and growth for infants. The simple act of breastfeeding can protect a childs life and it also reduces maternal illnesses, he emphasised.

Optimal breastfeeding in the first two years of life, he underpinned, and particularly exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months as recommended by the WHO, has the potential to prevent up to 12 to 15 per cent of all under-five deaths in the developing world. He pointed out that the health benefits of breastfeeding do not last just during infancy, but are sustained throughout childhood, adolescence and into adulthood as well.

He highlighted that breastfeeding provides a unique early bonding experience for infants and their mothers. This contributes greatly to the babys psychological, emotional and social development. In addition, many mothers feel fulfillment and joy from the physical and emotional communion they experience with their child while nursing, he stated.

The Health Minister however pointed out that there is a long way to go to make sure that all children in Mauritius are well protected in their early stages of life. Statistics from a survey carried out in 2017 by the Mauritius Institute of Health had found that, among 480 mothers only 25% had breastfed their babies for the first six months. To that end, he urged governmental and private institutions to assist and support women in breastfeeding and to create the utmost protective and supportive environment for exclusive breastfeeding.

World Breastfeeding Week 2018

The theme chosen this year by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action is Breastfeeding-Foundation of life. The objectives of the World Breastfeeding Week 2018 are to: inform people about the links between good nutrition, food security, poverty reduction and breastfeeding; anchor breastfeeding as the foundation of life; engage with individuals and organisations for greater impact; and galvanise action to advance breastfeeding as part of good nutrition, food security and poverty reduction.

To mark the World Breastfeeding Week 2018, the Ministry of Health and Quality of Life is organising a workshop at Gold Crest Hotel to spread the promotion campaign of breastfeeding among NGOS and their field workers. Furthermore, a series of activities will be organised with a view to sensitising the population at large on the benefits of breastfeeding, and to encourage mothers to breastfeed.
Description

GIS - 07 August, 2018 : The first edition of the Indo-Mauritian Urology Conclave 2018, aimed at discussing the latest innovation and sharing knowledge recorded in the field of urology, opened yesterday at the Radisson Blu Azuri Resorts Hotel in Riviere du Rempart. The Minister Mentor, Minister of Defense and Rodrigues, Sir Anerood Jugnauth, the Minister of Health and Quality of Life, Dr Anwar Husnoo, Lady Sarojini Jugnauth, and other eminent personalities were present.

In his keynote address, the Minister Mentor highlighted that the Indo-Mauritian Urology Conclave comes at an opportune time since Mauritius is faced with an increasing number of patients diagnosed with urological problems. He underlined that in 2017, some 12 476 patients suffering from genitourinary diseases received treatment in public hospitals. Moreover, the death rate registered due to renal complications has increased from 139 in 2015 to 160 in 2017, he added.

He pointed out that public hospitals do not have a full-fledged urological unit adding that Mauritius should be endowed with the state-of-the-art infrastructure and specialised healthcare services to better respond to the needs of the population. Government, he emphasised, is investing in appropriate infrastructure and putting together the required expert resources in hospitals to deliver quality health care service.

On this score, Sir Anerood Jugnauth, underlined that some Rs 7 billion has been injected in the construction of the new ENT Hospital, a new Cancer Hospital at Solferino in Vacoas; a new Teaching Hospital at Flacq; and an Eye Hospital at Reduit with a view to positioning Mauritius as a medical centre of excellence in the Indian Ocean. He added that a new Renal Transplant Unit will also be set up at the Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital.

For his part, the Minister of Health and Quality of Life, Dr Anwar Husnoo, highlighted that the idea behind the Conclave 2018 is to deepen the knowledge of Mauritian doctors in the field of urology so as to prepare them for treating cases of urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and prostate cancer, amongst others. He further emphasised that doctors in Mauritius need to align their knowledge according to medical disciplines while adding that a new medical school is being set up at Flacq with the aim of raising the standards of medical health care services.

Speaking of the Human Tissue (Removal, Preservation and Transplant) Act, the Minister underlined that it will pave the way for doctors to perform transplants in Mauritius thus reducing the number of patients going abroad for treatment.

Some 100 doctors both from Mauritius and India, which include urologists and nephrologists, are participating in the two-day event, organised by the North Zone Chapter of the Urological Society of India in collaboration with Wellkin Hospital and Fortis Clinique Darne.
According to New York City Council Speaker Corey Johnson, NYC Council is kicking off  the largest demonstration of grassroots democracy in North America  this summer. Hes referring to the Councils Participatory Budgeting (PB) program, through which community members can vote on how to spend $1,000,000 from the budget of participating Council Districts. Voting for Cycle 7 of PBNYC wrapped up just a few months ago, and now residents can begin posting their ideas for Cycle 8 online.To do so, residents can drop pins on this map to pitch project ideas in one of 12 categories, including things like housing and transit. For instance, Padric Gleason from Astoria, Queens, proposed the idea of installing solar panels and a rainwater collection system on the roof of PS 17 Henry David Thoreau, in honor of Thoreaus love of nature.During voting for Cycle 7, a number of residents asked members of the PBNYC Participation Lab team about the impact of participatory budgeting on their community. In response, the Participation Lab developed another interactive map to display data on PB projects gathered through the NYC Data Portal.On the same website, projects are also sorted according their category, the number of votes received, the cost, and the agency that has undertook it (or would have, had the project won the vote).Each graph provides a different set of insights into the priorities of voters. For instance, its clear that libraries and schools are a top priority for participants in PB, and they appear to be most enthusiastic about projects in the $200k-299k range.New York City Council has a history of winning awards for its participatory budgeting program. In 2015, they won the Roy and Lila Ash Innovation Award for Public Engagement in Government, and earlier this year PBNYCs Participation Lab received both the Mayors Civics Award and the Open Data Award in the first annual NYC Open Data Project Gallery Contest. Upon receiving these awards, Hadassah Damien, Director of Data & Technology for the Participation Lab said , New York City residents decide together and vote on how to spend $30 million taxpayer dollars on community projects in PBNYC  of course they want to know how those projects are coming along!This year, 31 council districts from across all five boroughs have signed up to participate in Cycle 8. That means $31 million of New York Citys $89 billion budget  roughly 0.035%  will be put to a direct vote. In context, the sum is paltry, but evidence suggests that participatory budgeting operates best at a small, local level. In a study of Porto Alegre, a Brazilian city which is often heralded as the first to enact participatory budgeting, researchers at the World Resources Unstitute found that PB proved less effective with larger-scale projects, due to their complexity. Overall, PB was better suited to mobiliz[e] popular demands around discrete, small-scale infrastructure about which neighborhood residents could more or less agree.Its possible that the same would be true for New York City, and that it would be better off for PBNYC to remain small-scale. Its important to note, though, that the value of PB is not proportional to its allotted budget. PB programs like New York Citys provide valuable information about the priorities of residents, as well as a platform for a dialogue between residents and city government. In particular, PBNYCs maps serve to foster data literacy and empower residents to become active members of their community through new digital means.
(TNS)  County election boards across Ohio are preparing to buy a new generation of voting machines, and although its unclear what systems will be chosen, its becoming more likely that tens of thousands of voters in southwest Ohio will fill out paper ballots rather than voting on touchscreens as soon as the May election.It could be a departure for the polling locations, said Jan Kelly, Montgomery County Board of Elections director. They really arent like what we have now.Voters in Montgomery County along with those in Butler, Darke, Greene and Miami counties and 36 others currently use DRE machines, or direct-recording electronic voting machines that have touchscreens. But as election officials work now to get new systems online and proven before the 2020 presidential election, no DRE machine has been certified for use in Ohio, according to officials.That leaves many counties looking at a switch to paper ballots and optical-scanning equipment to count ballots, or hybrid systems coming at more than twice the price that employ touchscreens to mark a paper ballot.Nationwide, 47 percent of American registered voters in November 2016 lived in jurisdictions using only optical-scan technology that requires voters to fill in bubbles, complete arrows or make other machine-readable marks on paper; 28 percent lived in DRE-only jurisdictions; another 19 percent lived in jurisdictions where both were used, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of Verified Voting Foundation data.Voters in Champaign, Clark, Clinton, Preble and Warren counties already use paper ballots, but those in others, including Miami County, could be in for a change  perhaps one they dont prefer, said Beverly Kendall, the Miami County elections board director.I think people like the new technology, and they would like to stay with some sort of touchscreen, Kendall said.But of the three systems the Miami County Board of Elections is considering to replace 445 machines, two require paper ballots. The third is a hybrid system that would have a touchscreen. But the decision will come down to cost, she said.The board wants to have some firm quotes from some of the vendors now that the money is available, she said. We will go back and look at choices and narrow them down to see what they can get for the money.Counties will receive a share of $114.5 million from a bill signed last week by Gov. John Kasich.The County Commissioners Association of Ohio and the Ohio Association of Elections Officials estimated it would cost the counties altogether roughly $116 million to purchase optical-scan equipment and $267 million for hybrids.It could take up to $8 million to replace Montgomery Countys more than 2,100 DRE voting machines with new technology. The county should receive a little more than half that from the state  $4.2 million to $4.5 million, Kelly said.The Ohio Secretary of State has certified systems from five main vendors, all of which demonstrated their equipment for Montgomery County in June. The county plans to have new machines by the May 2019 election and has picked its top two choices, but Kelly wont divulge which ones.Its possible Montgomery County will purchase two types of voting machines, a hybrid with a screen for early voting at the Board of Elections office while those who vote at their precincts will cast votes on paper with a marker, Kelly said.Probably at the polls we will be looking at paper, she said. It really comes down to what the board members decide. They are the ones that make the ultimate decision.Greene County also wants to replace its DRE machines with new before the 2020 presidential election when turnout is much larger, but the county is biding its time, said Llyn McCoy, Greene County Board of Elections director.McCoy said theres an outside chance a DRE system will yet be certified.We are taking a wait-and-see approach this time just to see whats out there and maybe let some other counties get the bugs worked out like we did before, she said. If we would have to go to optical scan, it would be a change for us, but we are not sure at this point that is indeed what well have to do.
(TNS)  The University of Pennsylvania s School of Engineering and Applied Science will offer its master of computer and information technology (MCIT) program online, making it the universitys first entirely online degree. It is slated to start in January.This masters program admits students with no computer science background, and the online version will cost around one-third of its on-campus counterpart. The standard program typically accepts about 80 new students each year, but the online effort will allow Penn to accept several hundred more from around the world, said Boon Thau Loo, associate dean at Penn Engineering, who oversees the schools masters programs.Loo said the ability to graduate in two years with a masters degree in computer science without any background in the subject makes MCIT one of Penn Engineerings most popular programs. It has a very transformational impact on the lives of its students, allowing them to go on to computer science jobs at places such as Google and Amazon.com, Loo said. Were looking to potentially tap into mid-career professionals who have been working for a while and are looking at this as a way to upscale or are looking for a career change.Not only will MCIT be Penns first fully online degree, it will also be the first Ivy League degree launched on its online partner, Coursera , said the sites CEO, Jeff Maggioncalda. He said this step will help to reduce the perception that online degrees are from lower-ranked or for-profit universities.The future of degrees, especially masters degrees where people are working, is going to be online, Maggioncalda said. When people are working, quitting your job to get a masters degree is very costly and can be very disruptive to your family. Graduate and professional studies programs now make up the majority of online learning, said Howard Lurie, principal analyst for online and continuing education at Eduventures, a higher education research and advisory service in Boston.He said Eduventures research shows around a third of graduate studies are now wholly or partially online.The idea of online courses and online learning is no longer niche, Lurie said. It used to be an outlier for most schools, and now its pretty common.What isnt common, Lurie said, is offering online programs at a lower price than on-campus ones. Most schools price online courses at or just below the cost of on-campus learning to avoid lowering on-campus enrollment for the same programs, Eduventures research shows.Between tuition, additional fees, and room and board, the Penn on-campus MCIT program can cost between $70,000 and $80,000. The online version, however, is roughly one-third that price at $26,300.Lowering the cost too much would make students question the value of an online degree, Lurie said.?Coursera, based in California, is providing the technology necessary to offer the classes digitally. Penns faculty members will be able to focus on developing and teaching the course.Penn was one of Coursera s first partners after its founding in 2012, previously offering individualized courses for no credit on the platform. Maggioncalda said the platform now has 34 million registered learners, with 80 percent from countries outside the United States.The largest degree program that Coursera offers is a master of business administration at the University of Illinois, which has over 1,000 students online. Maggioncalda said the retention rate for that program has been over 90 percent, which is higher than many on-campus programs.Vijay Kumar, the Nemirovsky Family Dean of Penn Engineering, said he expects the online version of MCIT to open the program up to new graduate student demographics and attract up to 500 students without detracting from its current pool of on-campus students. He said it was important that we make it available to the broadest range of learners. Education is getting more expensive, and we want to drive it in the opposite direction.Kumar said this MCIT program will be almost exactly the same as the on-campus version, with faculty members who currently teach the courses on campus also doing so online. Certain Coursera features  such as a team that helps faculty members make the transition to online teaching and analytics that tell professors how much time students are spending on certain sections of a recorded lecture  will help get the program off the ground.Students will be able to work through the courses at a rate of their own choosing. But there will be a limit to how fast the first group can move since not all of the courses will be immediately offered in January.Despite the lack of face-to-face interactions between students and professors, Kumar said, faculty members will strive to give the same, individual online attention to each student in the class as they give to on-campus students. As someone who has taught online classes before, he said the technology available sometimes makes it possible to respond to individuals and their needs in a way that is not possible in a face-to-face setting.Ive learned personally that one thing about the online world, its easier to hide in an actual classroom than it is to hide in an online world, he said.
Chinese sailors aboard a ship of the 30th Chinese naval escort taskforce man the rails when the taskforce departs from a naval port in Qingdao of east Chinas Shandong Province on August 6, 2018. (81.cn)

By Wang Songqi, Zhang Gang and Lai Yonglei

QINGDAO, Aug. 7 (ChinaMil) -- The 30th Chinese naval escort taskforce set out for the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somali from a naval port in Qingdao of east Chinas Shandong Province on Monday morning to carry out the escort mission.

The taskforce consists of the guided-missile frigates Wuhu (Hull 539) and Handan (Hull 579), the comprehensive supply ship Dongpinghu (Hull 960), as well as two ship-borne helicopters and dozens of special operations soldiers, a total of nearly 700 personnel. It is the first time for the guided-missile frigate Handan to participate in an escort mission.

The Chinese PLA Navy has dispatched 29 taskforces to escort in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somali for 10 consecutive years since its first escort mission in December 2008, and has successfully escorted more than 6,000 Chinese and foreign ships.

The 30th Chinese naval escort taskforce is expected to arrive at the eastern waters of the Gulf of Aden in early September and take over the escort mission from the 29th escort taskforce.

The guided-missile frigate Handan (Hull 579) of the 30th Chinese naval escort taskforce departs from a naval port in Qingdao of east Chinas Shandong Province on August 6, 2018. (81.cn/Photo by Wang Songqi)
(TNS)  On university campuses across the country, scientists and engineers are scrambling to develop a radically new kind of computing  and computers  that experts say will revolutionize online communications, encryption and search.We're delighted to see that they could get a powerful boost from the U.S. government, thanks to welcome and bipartisan legislation advancing in Congress that would make the research a national priority.The new field is called quantum information science, or quantum computing, and it really is that important. As one congressional staffer told us this week, "We try not to think of it as just faster computing. This is going to allow us to solve problems we never thought computers could solve."Just how it will do that is complicated, as it involves the marriage of information science and quantum mechanics, and some of the oldest puzzles in theoretical physics. We'll dive into the details further below. But for now, trust us when we say the work will likely upend the way the world uses the Internet for tasks as routine as sending an email or making a purchase, or as complex as the national security-level encryption that keeps the nation's secrets secret.To cite just one example, an encryption that would take a super computer days to crack could, as so-called quantum computers come online, take a matter of seconds. That has implications for everything from the efficacy of Google's search algorithms to your online bank accounts and password-protected emails to the secrets kept by the National Security Agency.The breakthrough has to do with the way computers manipulate information. The smallest unit of information read by a conventional computer is a binary digit, or a bit. These bits are binary, meaning they signal either 1 or 0. Even such simple markers, when enough are strung together, can give computers incredibly complex directions.But quantum computers use quantum digits, or qubits. Just as quantum physics has theorized that some subatomic particles are both present and not present at the same time, these qubits can be both 1 and 0 simultaneously. It can mean the difference between instructing a computer to give one answer 10,000 times, or writing one set of instructions to provide 10,000 answers.Last month, the U.S. House of Representatives science committee unanimously advanced a bill that would instruct the administration to create 10 federal research centers aimed at speeding up development of quantum computers and related technology. The bill was shepherded by two Texans who lead the panel: chairman Lamar Smith of San Antonio and ranking member Eddie Bernice Johnson of Dallas. The U.S. Senate is working on a similar bill.We're delighted that Congress and the White House are prioritizing this work, especially given reports that China and other nations are already ahead in their own quest to bring quantum from theory to widespread use.It's far too soon to know where those 10 research centers will be, but we're pleased to discover that some of the most advanced work in the nation is already being done at Texas universities  including right here in Dallas. At Southern Methodist University, professor Mitch Thornton leads a team already developing ways of writing software for IBM's experimental quantum computer, one of a handful of such machines in existence.It's not often the White House and both parties in Congress can come together on a national priority. But that's precisely what it takes for big wins in Washington. And this one could have positive impacts for generations.
(TNS)  Self-driving vehicles are typically described as a disruptive technology that will make traditional modes of public transportation obsolete, but a recent announcement by Chandler-based Waymo is challenging that narrative.The Google-backed autonomous vehicle company and Valley Metro announced a first-of-its-kind pilot program that aims to increase access to and use of public transportation.The project will give select Valley Metro employees in the Southeast Valley the opportunity to use Waymo autonomous vehicles to travel to and from public transit stops on their commutes between home and work.The program is designed to test the effectiveness of using self-driving vehicles to promote public transportation by providing an option to travelers who do not live within walking distance of a light rail, bus stops and other Valley Metro centers.When the Valley Metro partnership launches, the Waymo vehicles will have backup safety drivers behind the wheel, though the company already deploys a mix of vehicles in the East Valley with and without backup drivers outside that program, said Shaun Stewart, Waymo's chief business development officer.The program will begin this month and include a three-month evaluation period followed by a planned two-year pilot. It will only be available to select Valley Metro employees, though there is potential for a wider expansion in the future."This is a laboratory. We are going to see how things progress," said Valley Metro CEO Scott Smith, adding that the companies will collect data and learn from the experience as they determine how to move forward.The inclusion of Valley Metro employees has added benefits for Waymo."The benefit we have with the Valley Metro folks is they are professionals who focused their careers on transportation, so we want their opinions and their insights from their educated perspective on what's working and what isn't," Stewart said.The new program will function as both an operational and data-sharing partnership between Waymo and Valley Metro. It will also give the two organizations a chance to work out the kinks before launching an eventual public service."Part of the pilot program is just to figure out those logistics will work," Smith said. "How do you merge this vibrant company with technology into a system like Valley Metro that is an established, large public transportation organization and make it seamless?"Stewart acknowledged that the sample size from Waymo's Early Rider Program and this new pilot is relatively small  the Early Rider Program currently has about 400 riders in the East Valley  but he said the small group of transportation professionals will give the company input from "a trusted user with a specific perspective" in phase one of the program before it roles out to the public.If and when that public program roles out, it could have a significant impact on commuters looking to utilize public transportation more often.Tempe-resident Samantha Jackson, whose has participated in the Early Rider Program for about a year, said her family typically uses Waymo's autonomous vehicles for trips to the grocery store or to see movies at the AMC in Ahwatukee."It's awesome, especially this time of year because you hate to find a parking spot," she said, noting that it typically takes four to six minutes for a Waymo to arrive after booking through the app.She said she cannot use it for her daily commute, because the boundaries for the program do not extend to Downtown Phoenix where she works. However, Jackson noted that if the boundaries extended slightly further, she could link up with a light rail station for the rest of her journey.The program could have broader implications in the East Valley as well.If it promotes increased ridership on the light rail, for instance, that would bode well for the plethora of gestating development projects in downtown Mesa  such as the proposed ASU building  that are located adjacent to light rail stops."The future is here. Autonomous vehicles are not a concept anymore; they are a part of people's lives," Mesa Mayor John Giles said. "I love this partnership, because it is not either or with autonomous vehicles and public transportation."Giles added that fixed transportation lines like the light rail make more sense in the Valley with complimentary services like Waymo that can bring in additional riders.Giles said that Waymo is expanding in Mesa and is in talks with the city about opening a facility there.Still, not all commuters are comfortable with the idea of using self-driving vehicles. A Reuters/Ipsos poll from January found that two-thirds of Americans are "uncomfortable about the idea of riding in self-driving cars," according to Reuters.The poll found that men are generally more comfortable with the idea of riding in the vehicles than women, with 38 percent responding favorably versus 16 percent of women.The safety of autonomous vehicles is still a hot topic in Arizona following the fatal Uber crash in Tempe that left one woman dead. Tempe Police documents indicated that a distracted backup driver played a role in the collision.While Waymo's vehicles have been involved in two crashes in Chandler and Mesa, the Waymo vehicles were not at fault in either incident, according to Chandler Police. In both cases, the Waymo vehicles were also in manual mode with a driver behind the wheel.The Tempe accident incident raised questions about the safety of Uber's autonomous vehicles, and Gov. Doug Ducey ultimately suspended the company from testing in ArizonaDucey, who once criticized California's regulatory environment as too burdensome as he attempted to woo autonomous vehicle companies, also updated a bare bones 2015 executive order that governed testing in Arizona.The new order, in part, required any autonomous vehicles testing in the state to comply with Arizona traffic laws, federal safety standards and have the ability to come to a safe stop in the event of a failure by the vehicle's automated driving system.However, Ducey has been vague on how the state will be overseeing self-driving car testing on an ongoing basis.At a campaign event in Gilbert earlier this year, Ducey addressed the issue."We're going to do everything we can to protect public health and public safety while remaining a place that invites entrepreneurship and innovation," Ducey said. "We're going to work with the federal government to make sure that everyone is in compliance with the federal guidelines and standards."He also spoke generally on providing oversight for the industry, but did not specify which agencies would be responsible. The state's Self-Driving Vehicle Oversight Committee, which included policy experts and members of various government departments, has not met since 2016.Ducey said, "We have plenty of committees and commissions inside state government  I think over 220  so what I am doing is working with agency heads inside our state government (and) existing boards and commissions to see where can we have the proper oversight but at the same time not add more bureaucracy or administration."The new executive order did give some regulatory authority to the Arizona Department of Public Safety and Arizona Department of Transportation.Waymo has been open about how it tests its technology and ensures rider safety. The company published a 43-page safety report last fall that described in detail the types of hardware and software employed in its vehicles and how it tests and validates those tools to ensure they work correctly.The report also noted that Waymo autonomous driving technology falls under SAE International's definition of a Level 4 automated driving system, meaning the vehicles have the ability to bring themselves to a safe stop in the event of a system failure.However, the company has been less open on broader safety and regulation issues.Waymo representatives did not respond to a request for comment on how it selects its backup drivers or its opinions on the regulatory environment in Arizona.Valley Metro's Smith did note that the organization will have input on safety issues throughout the course of its partnership with Waymo."It's no different than our existing relationships," Smith said. "We have relationships with contractors and transportation providers that carry our passengers and safety is paramount in all of those relationships, so this will be no different."
Far from the beach. This coming weekend, MotoGP is back on track at the Red Bull Ring. Marc Marquez arrives at the Austrian circuit following a podium at Brno and the fastest time set during Monday's test. #93 hopes to start up from where he left off there: We come from a good test in Brno, where we found several positive things. Well try some of them at the Red Bull Ring and see how everything works. Actually, it will be the second time this year for me at the track, after the unbelievable experience we had with the F1 Toro Rosso test run in June.

#93 is not about to forget last year's thrilling head to head with Dovizioso: Austria is another track where Dovizioso and Lorenzo are strong, but we were also strong there last year so well see if it comes down to the last corner again! Well try to be fast from the start of the weekend and then fight up at the front."

On the other side of the garage Dani Pedrosa aims to be back fighting with the best following the difficulties of the last races: A day of testing after the Czech Grand Prix gave us the chance to work on our bike setup, to try and sort out the issues weve experienced in the recent races. We were able to be fast and consistent, and now well see if that was down to the better track conditions, or if the changes we made there have actually improved our base setup."

Dani is keen to get started: it will be good to check that at the Red Bull Ring, as its usually a demanding track for us, so to have a good feeling there would be very important. Well also have a special Michelin rear tyre there, so well see how it goes putting everything together. Weather will also be a key for the race."
Saudi Arabia announced Monday it was expelling the Canadian ambassador and had recalled its envoy while freezing business ties with Ottawa, over what it called "interference" in its internal affairs.

The move follows vigorous calls by Canada for the immediate release of human rights activists swept up in a new wave of detentions.

"The kingdom of Saudi Arabia... will not accept interference in its internal affairs or imposed diktats from any country," the foreign ministry tweeted. "The kingdom announces that it is recalling its ambassador... to Canada for consultation."

The ministry said that the Canadian ambassador to Riyadh had 24 hours to leave the country, and announced the "freezing of all new commercial and investment transactions" with Ottawa.
Lifestyle

Making the most of the opportunities is what really matters, says social media expert Faisal Shafique

However, it is time to discuss about one such action-taker, who always kept his focus firm and made sure to exceed limits to reach the highest point of success in the social media world; he is Faisal Shafique, the young mind and the man who believed he could and so he did.
In his speech at Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park, Mayor Kazumi Matsui said certain nations were "rekindling tensions that had eased with the end of the Cold War," although he did not identify those nations. Matsui said these nations are "explicitly expressing self-centered nationalism" while modernizing their nuclear weapons.

The mayor of Hiroshima, Japan warned Monday that a rising tide of nationalism is threatening world peace in a ceremony marking the 73rd anniversary of the atomic bombing of his city by the United States.

But Matsui also called on Japan itself to take the lead in working towards eliminating nuclear weapons. Tokyo is under the protection of the U.S.'s so-called "nuclear umbrella" and is not a signatory of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

The August 6, 1945 bombing of Hiroshima, which killed 170,000 people in the world's first use of atomic weapon, was followed three days later by the bombing of the city of Nagasaki, which killed more than 70,000 people, and led to Japan's unconditional surrender, ending World War II.

Also speaking at Monday's ceremony, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Japan will do more to bridge the widening gap between nuclear and non-nuclear nations, while reaffirming Tokyo's opposition to nuclear weapons.




Haiti - Politic : Various reactions to the appointment of the new PM





The appointment by President Moise of the Notary Jean-Henry Ceant as Prime Minister https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-25163-haiti-flash-moise-chooses-jean-henry-ceant-as-new-prime-minister.html caused many opposite reactions...



Jorchemy Jean-Baptiste, the number two of the party "Renmen Ayiti" which Ceant is the leader, recalls that as Prime Minister, he must share the vision of the President to whom he has an obligation of solidarity emphasizing that Ceant is a rallying man who has the ability to interact with all sectors.



Rudy Heriveaux, the spokesperson of PHTK, the party of power, assures that he fully supports the candidacy of the new Prime Minister.



Senator Youri Latortue (AAA) sees this appointment as a positive step, saying that his party is ready to join the government if he gets guarantees that the PetroCaribe issue will be a priority of the next government.



Eric Jean-Baptiste, the former presidential candidate under the banner of the "Socialist Action Movement" (MAS), the appointment of Me Ceant is a responsible choice, recognizing the skills and capacity of the new PM, however, stating that his position is not a blank check to the newcomer.



The Deputy Abel Descollines (KID) member of the minority opposition calls on the new PM to demonstrate, without demagogy, what he can offer the country, however he asserts that his bloc will make known its final position when the personalities of the next Government will be known.



Jean-Charles Moise, leader of the radical opposition "Petit Dessalin" and the Movement "of the democratic and popular opposition" which gathers about twenty of the opposition party, minimize the choice of Jean-Henry Ceant and claim in unity the departure of the Head of State.



TB/ HaitiLibre


















No South Korean arms and materiel will be deployed by the combined brigade in peacetime, but South Korean and U.S. officers will run the brigade together.

The official said the combined force will be based north of the Han River and attached to the U.S. Forces Korea's 210th Field Artillery Brigade. The aim is to counter North Korea's long-range artillery guns.

South Korea and the U.S. will launch a combined artillery brigade, a government official said Monday.

The brigade commander will be a U.S. Army colonel and his deputy a South Korean Army lieutenant colonel. Some South Korean artillery officers have already begun working for the 210th Field Artillery Brigade.

The 210th Field Artillery Brigade is the only USFK unit stationed in northern Gyeonggi Province and is supposed to play a tripwire role in case of an attack from North Korea.

The brigade is equipped with a multiple launch rocket system nicknamed "steel rain" with a range of 45 km and an Army tactical missile system (ATacMS) of surface-to-surface missiles with a range of 300 km.

Its duty is to neutralize the North's artillery, including long-range guns that target the Seoul metropolitan area, in the initial stage of a war. "We expect that once the combined artillery brigade is launched, our defense posture will improve," a military spokesman here said.

In 2015, the two allies launched a combined division based on the 2nd U.S. Infantry Division.

In peacetime, South Korean and U.S. Army officers run the division, but in wartime a South Korean mechanized infantry unit or special forces will join it.

The plans come ahead of the transfer of full wartime operational control of South Korean troops to Seoul.


Juhamatti Kalima from Jyvaskyla writes on Facebook that his unemployment benefits were suspended for two months on grounds that he had neglected to inform the employment authority of his decision to cancel his registration for a job search training.

The Central Finland TE Offices decision to suspend the unemployment benefits of a 34-year-old teacher has stirred up widespread debate on social media.

Kalima had registered for the training in order to comply with the activation model for unemployment security but cancelled his participation after he found a job before the training started. He had registered as an unemployed job seeker immediately after his fixed-term teaching job ended in June, as it was uncertain whether he would be able to find another fixed-term job for the autumn.

Wrongly employed  a cautionary example of dealing with TE Offices, he starts his post, which has since been shared thousands of times.

He estimates that the suspension of benefits will ultimately cost him approximately 2,000 euros.

Leena Kauhanen, the head of customer service at the Central Finland TE Office, says she is unable to comment on individual cases but adds that, in general, job seekers are required under law to inform employment authorities of changes in their situation.

Its certainly regrettable for the customer, but you should always remember to agree on changes with the authorities, she said. The legislation is unconditional in that respect.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT

Photo: Mikko Stig  Lehtikuva

Source: Uusi Suomi
Id personally show restraint in this respect, he commented on YLE Radio 1 on Monday . I recognise that theres some sort of an effort to prevent taxes from rising, but I personally believe itd be a bad decision to cut taxes notably  or at all  at this point in time.

The Finnish government should concentrate on re-building its fiscal buffers and refrain from introducing tax cuts, views Vesa Vihriala, the research director at the Research Institute of the Finnish Economy (ETLA).

We should be creating buffers. That also means that taxes should at least not be relaxed.

The Blue Reform is expected to call for income tax cuts worth 200300 million euros at the budget session of the government of Prime Minister Juha Sipila (Centre) on 2829 August.

Its our belief that you must take care of the purchasing power of consumers. Relaxing income taxes by 200300 million euros would be justifiable in that light, Simon Elo, the chairperson of the Blue Reform Parliamentary Group, commented to STT on Saturday.

Vihriala viewed that the current economic situation is unusually good and that the economic growth that has continued for almost two years has been rather brisk. The growth, however, will inevitably slow down, he reminded.

The public economy isnt on a particularly strong footing when you take into account the kind of pressures well face in the future. You have to keep in mind that when we had the big depression in the early 1990s, we were able to create buffers against it by raising public debt from 60 per cent of GDP to almost 70 per cent of GDP, he said to YLE.

It took us over 15 years to bring [the debt ratio] down to roughly 30 per cent.

The low debt ratio effectively served as a buffer during the more recent recession by allowing the public economy to show a deficit and support growth for a number of years, explained Vihriala.

Now that the growth is solid and the situation has improved, its important to make sure that we bring down the public debt ratio to create buffers in time for the next recession  which well inevitably face some day, he said.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT

Photo: Roni Rekomaa  Lehtikuva

Source: Uusi Suomi
A FAMILY of four from Henley have been caught up in an earthquake which has killed almost 100 people in Indonesia

The 6.9 magnitude quake hit Lombok on Sunday killing 91 people and leaving at least 20,000 homeless.

The family, who havent been named, includes a 38-year-old mother, 40-year-old father and two children, aged seven and five who were visiting the nearby island of Gili Trawangan.

A relative said they had witnessed looting and panic after the earthquake but that they were now in a hotel with access to water.

He said: "We've been looking at trying to charter helicopters to get them off the island, but we've heard now they're booked up until August 15.

"My daughter did say there was looting going on, but we've had another message to say the authorities had taken control and some order had been resumed.

"The kids are quite traumatised, I've spoken to my daughter and she's clearly very frightened and very scared - frankly they just want to come home.

A quake hit Lombok last week, killing 16 people, and the relative added that the family had been caught up in this as well.

Do you know the family? Call the newsroom on (01491) 419444.
A Foreign Ministry envoy is to fly to Libya to negotiate the release of a Korean who was kidnapped by insurgents there a month ago.

"We will send an ambassador-at-large who has experience in handling abduction cases," the ministry said in a press release Monday. "We will have intensive discussions with the Libyan government on how to handle the case and urge it to make further efforts to solve it."

Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha has already spoken on the phone with her Libyan counterpart Mohamed Taher Siala, asking for the Libyan government's cooperation in ensuring an early safe return of the Korean.

The man was working for a water management company of the Great Man-Made River, an aquifer stretching across Libya built by a Korean company.

He was kidnapped with three Filipino coworkers from a water plant in Jabal Hassouna in southwestern Libya on July 6.
A group of university students rallied in western Seoul last week demanding that two prominent North Korean defectors who are darlings of the conservative press be thrown in jail.

The protesters held up placards and passed out fliers accusing Thae Yong-ho, the former No. 2 man in the North Korean Embassy in London, of being a "pedophile" and "blocking peace and reunification."

The also accused Park Sang-hak, who leads a group that regularly sends propaganda fliers attached to balloons across the border, of "profiteering" from North Korean human rights causes by embezzling donations.

After Thae defected to the South in 2016, the North's official Korean Central News Agency started a smear campaign accusing him of stealing government money and raping a teenager. The Unification Ministry here said the allegations are groundless.

The students call themselves the Progressive Korean University Student Alliance and are believed to be affiliated with the hard-left Unified Progressive Party, which was disbanded in late 2014 in a trial on charges of instigating a rebellion.

The group was launched earlier this month and held a demonstration in front of the Defense Ministry on Aug. 3 calling for the dissolution of the Defense Security Command. They also held a discussion session with North Korean defector Kim Ryon-hui, who has made several desperate attempts to return to her family in the North and is being denied a passport by the South Korean government.
The PT boats of World War II were no longer in use, but the Nasty, with its similar dimensions and performance, was idealand immediately available.

On July 30, 1964, four speedy U.S. Navy wooden hulled boats, manned by South Vietnamese commandos advised by elite American troops, entered the Gulf of Tonkin. They carried out a late-evening attack against North Vietnams radar station on Hon Me Island and a garrison on Ngu Island before withdrawing shortly after midnight.

The vessels used in the attack had been developed by a Norwegian company in the 1950s as a prototype patrol torpedo boat named Nasty, which became Norways first vessel in its Tjeld class of patrol torpedo boats. When the U.S. Navy began to support unconventional warfare operations in Indochina in 1961, it had no suitable craft for the job, as the PT boats of World War II were no longer in use. But the Nasty, with its similar dimensions and performance, was idealand immediately available.

Norway delivered 14 vessels to the Navy, and American company John Trumpy & Sons Inc. provided six more. The Navy got its first two of 20 in 1962 and its last vessel in 1968. It bought the Nasty class boats primarily for the Studies and Observation Group, a covert operations agency that included men from the Navy SEALs and Army Special Forces. SOG used the boats to attack enemy defenses and radar sites on the coast, land South Vietnamese units to blow up bridges, drop off SEALs for reconnaissance operations in North Vietnamese harbors and carry out a variety of similar operations.

When the first boats arrived from Norway, the Navy added electronics, a 40 mm cannon on the bow and a 20 mm cannon on each bridge wing. The bow cannon was soon replaced by a .50-caliber machine gun mounted atop an 81 mm mortar. Crews also augmented the boats weapons with other guns to meet specific mission requirements. They often carried light anti-tank weapons, M60 machine guns, M79 grenade launchers and recoilless rifles.

After President Lyndon B. Johnson ended attacks on most of North Vietnam by U.S. aircraft and naval vessels in March 1968, the Nasty boats were employed for offshore patrols and commando insertions. Three were transferred briefly to the South Vietnamese navy, and six were lost in combat. The surviving units returned to the United States in 1972 and were stricken by 1981.

Crew: 17-19 Propulsion: Two supercharged 3,100 shaft horsepower Napier-Deltic diesel engines driving two propellers Displacement: 80 tons (full load) Length: 80 feet, 4 inches Beam (width): 24 feet, 7 inches Draft (depth): 6 feet, 10 inches Top speed: 42 knots at full load Maximum range: 912 nautical miles at 20 knots Armament: One Bofors 40 mm anti-aircraft gun; two 20 mm cannons; one M2 .50-caliber machine atop an 81 mm mortar

This article was published in the October 2018 issue of Vietnam.
In 1939 Polands Nazi occupiers made Adam Czerniakow the leader of the Jews in Warsaw. Three years later he would reach the breaking point.



In 1939, even before Germany had completed its conquest of Poland, the Nazis began herding most of the countrys 3.3 million Jews into marked-off urban ghettos. The German occupational authorities created Judenrate (Jewish councils) made up of Jewish community leaders who, in many cases, were involuntarily appointed. Their function was defined by Reinhard Heydrich, Heinrich Himmlers deputy and one of the chief architects of the Holocaust, who decreed that the Judenrate were to bear the full responsibility for executing exactly and according to a time schedule, every order given at present or in the future. What those orders would be, and the catastrophe that was about to befall Polands Jews, was left unstated.

In Warsaw the German occupational authorities appointed Adam Czerniakow, a prominent engineer and senator, to head the 24-member Judenrat there. I now find myself in a post which I did not assume on my own initiative and of which I cannot divest myself, Czerniakow wrote in his diary. I am not independent and I do only what is possible. He quickly learned that under Nazi rule very little was possible, especially once the Germans began crowding nearly a third of Warsaws population into a Jewish ghetto that was packed into less than 3 percent of the citys living space.

Once the Jews were sequestered in the ghetto, the Germans began sealing it off from the outside world. The Jews must adjust themselves to all conditions, the top Nazi official in Warsaw said, but we shall endeavor to create such conditions for them that will make the adjustment difficult. In July 1942, having separated Polands Jews from their neighbors, the Germans began deporting and exterminating them en masse.

The Nazis decision to use the Judenrate as a tool to facilitate their program of first controlling and then eliminating the Jewish population was a policy of cynical cruelty. To follow one line of thought, the Jewish philosopher Emil Fackenheim has noted, if one could not make Jews destroy themselves one could, perhaps, make them destroy each other. By making some Jews rule over others one could achieve this aim equally.Base Jewish rulers would destroy the Jews ruled by them, so as to save themselves. Noble Jews would sacrifice some Jews they ruled so as to save others. Neitherof course, would himself be spared.

This was the situation in which Czerniakow found himself. He could not protect all his people; ultimately, he could not protect any of them any more than he could protect himself. It is clear from his diary, however, that in the beginning he hoped he might.

Was Czerniakow incredibly naive to have harbored any optimism at all? Perhaps, but at the beginning of the war the true nature of the Nazi agenda was not immediately apparent to those who were its intended victims, and the ultimate scale of the impending genocide was certainly not discernible. The 24 leaders of the Warsaw Judenrat could not have been aware of what would be demanded of them, Israel Gutman, a Polish-born Israeli historian who survived the Holocaust, writes. Jews who accepted these roles, or were forced to do so, could not fully understand the Nazi regimes intentions.Centuries of experience had taught them that if the Jewish representatives could not influence hostile rulers, they nonetheless could intercede and request mercy in high places.And this was certainly not the first time in the history of Jews in the Diaspora when Jewish leaders would be forced to serve their community on behalf of a hated and oppressive ruler. Thus the Judenrate trusted a historical model that was obsolete in the face of the new threat that confronted them. Czerniakows decisions might at first glance seem to have been delusional, but they were predicated on a historical view that allowed for some degree of rational hope. Tragically, this was a fatally mistaken perception.

Today we know that the deportation transports from Warsaw led to the gas chambers of Treblinka and other abattoirs, but in 1941 and much of 1942 the men and women of the various Judenrate did not yet know it. In the absence of that knowledge they attempted to live under the occupiers rule, even as their ultimate destruction was being plotted. The slow reaction of Warsaws Jews to the threat confronting them was not a matter of sheep-like pacifism or a lack of intelligent foresight. The Nazi plan of genocide was unparalleled in modern history, and the Germans were careful, at least in the beginning, to disguise the ultimate purpose of the deportations.

Czerniakows problem, then, was to try to maintain his heading in a rapidly shifting landscape of threat, danger, and pressure. The lethal threat obviously came from the Nazi occupiers, but he faced almost constant pressure from inside the ghetto as well. Near starvation, outbreaks of typhoid and other diseases, extortionate taxes levied for nearly every service the ghetto needed, the ever-present fear of what would happen nextall exerted incredible strain on the social fabric of a community in peril. Czerniakow had the moral responsibility of leading that community, and he did so at a considerable cost to himself. In his diary entry for November 4, 1940, he recounted his visit to the German occupational offices to deliver a petition. When I appeared at the Battalion office, the officer in charge set upon me, hitting me on the head till I fell, he wrote. At this point the soldiers started kicking me with their boots. The soldiers threw him down the stairs and beat him nearly senseless.

When rumors began to circulate in early 1942 that announcements of resettlement to the East in fact meant transport to extermination camps, Czerniakow asked the Nazi authorities whether there was any truth in them. The officials repeatedly assured him that the rumors were baseless. But all the while, the Nazis were setting in motion the machinery to exterminate an entire people. In June the Germans initiated Operation Reinhard, the secret plan to eradicate the populations of Jewish ghettos across Poland. Three death camps were established in Belzec, Sobibor, and Treblinka specifically to carry out this directive. By mid-July, the inhabitants of the Warsaw Ghetto saw clear signs that a mass deportation was looming.

Czerniakow desperately kept trying to find out what was happening. On July 20 he once again asked Gestapo officials as to the truth of the rumors. He was told, he wrote in his diary, that all the talk was utter nonsense.

Two days later the deportations began. Over the next eight weeks approximately 254,000 residents of the ghetto were sent to the Treblinka extermination camp. Sturmbannfuhrer [Hermann] Hofle and associates came at 10 oclock, Czerniakow wrote. We were told that all Jews irrespective of sex and age, with certain exceptions, will be deported to the East. By 4 p.m. today a contingent of 6,000 people must be provided. And this at the minimum will be the daily quota. The Germans added a new, personal threat to this order. Sturmbannfuhrer Hofleinformed me that for the time being my wife was free, Czerniakow wrote, but if the deportation were impeded in any way, she would be the first one to be shot.

For nearly three years Czerniakow had struggled to hold his community together in the face of mounting danger, enduring repeated humiliations and physical abuse from the Germans because of his efforts to gain reprieves for Jews rounded up for deportation or execution. Still, he tried to limit the scope of the new deportation order. On July 23, when he was ordered to have 9,000 people assemble to board the transports to Treblinka, he pleaded that orphans and children be exempted. The Germans refused.

Czerniakow went back to his office and wrote two letters, one to his wife and the other to the members of the Warsaw Judenrat. They are demanding that I kill the children of my people with my own hands, he wrote. There is nothing for me to do but die. He then swallowed a potassium cyanide tablet and died at his desk, choosing to take his own life rather than become complicit in the mass murder of his communitys children.

After the war some commentators would accuse Czerniakow and other leaders of the various Judenrate of being Judas goats who led their people to slaughter, thus aiding and abetting the Nazis program of genocide. If this had been true, it would certainly have been collaboration of the worst kind. In Czerniakows case, however, it was not.

Indeed, a strong argument that Czerniakow was not a collaborator or a knowing participant in the mass murder of his people comes from Jurgen Stroop, the SS commander who led the suppression of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising in 1943. Tried as a war criminal in Poland after the war, Stroop testified that Czerniakow could not have known about the gas chambers at Treblinka, for they were put into operation only on the day of his death. The situation that confronted Czerniakow in Warsaw in 1942 had no precedent, so it is not surprising that he could not envision the horrific realities of the Final Solution. (Before the war ended, more than 700,000 of Polands Jews would be murdered in Treblinka.) For Czerniakow, the unbearable blow came when he realized that he could not save even the most vulnerable of his community.

Czerniakow was a decent man who chose to die by his own hand when confronted by an unbearable ethical dilemma. For all his detractors, he was never a blind executor of the German orders, historians Joseph Lichten and Ludwik Krzyzanowski have noted, though he often had to yield in order to serve a greater good. Nor was he a petty despot like Mordecai Chaim Rumkowski, the president of the Judenrat in the Lodz ghetto, who, when presented with the same orders as Czerniakow, demanded that Jewish parents surrender their children for deportation so that others of the community might be spared.

Perhaps the sharpest criticism that can be leveled against Czerniakow is that he was, as Gutman has written, perhaps too decent for a time that required much more than decency and morality to lead the Jewish people. A decent and moral man may not have been able to comprehend that within three years, only 380,000 Polish Jews, out of more than three million, would remain alive. Czerniakow was not a traitor to his people, nor was he an accomplice in their destruction. MHQ

John A. Haymond is the author of The American Soldier, 18661916: The Enlisted Man and the Transformation of the American Army (McFarland, 2018).

This article appears in the Autumn 2018 issue (Vol. 31, No. 1) of MHQThe Quarterly Journal of Military History with the headline: Unwilling Accomplice
BMW noticed mysterious fires erupting in the engines of its cars in Europe as early as 2016, the carmaker admitted Monday, fueling more criticism that it failed to address the issue sooner. BMW called a press conference on Monday at the Westin Chosun in downtown Seoul to apologize to Korean consumers.

The carmaker said it received a report in 2016 about small holes forming in an intake manifold in a part of the engine and set up a task force to deal with the matter which recently concluded tests.

But Peter Nefischer, the head of engine development for BMW, claimed the automaker discovered the fundamental cause of the fires only in June this year.

"The cause is only a hardware issue. It has nothing to do with software. And the root cause is not Korea-specific. Similar rates are observed in other jurisdictions," said BMW Korea vice president Johann Ebenbichler.

But in fact around 20 BMWs caught fire in Korea in the second half of 2015 and 2016, and BMW already started fitting diesel engines with different exhaust gas recirculation modules in 2017, suggesting that the automaker noticed the problem much earlier.

BMW Korea CEO Kim Hyo-joon bowed before reporters and said, "I bow my head and apologize for causing distress to our customers, the Korean public and government."


They didnt know what to make of him.

Unlike the other Confederate officers, this one had a European aristocratic bearing, something unfamiliar to these backwoods Texans. Even more intriguing was his name: Camille Armand Jules Marie, Prince de Polignac. Lacking fluency in French, the troops did not know how to pronounce his name, much less comprehend his noble origin. Instead of Polignac, they devised their own, less tongue-twisting sobriquetPolecat, what they called a skunk. In jest, some of the soldiers held their noses in his presence. The prince took it all in good humor. After all, he knew prowess on the battlefield was what the Texans respected most. He wouldnt disappoint them.

Before his arrival, Polignacs command included some of the most undisciplined units from Texas. The 22nd, 31st, and 34th Cavalry regiments hailed from counties in northern Texas whose residents opposed secession before the war. Originally, their families had come to Texas from the nations border states. Most were wheat farmers with few slaves and little income to acquire them. Understandably, they were not enthused about the Confederate cause. Their mounts complemented their shabby appearanceunshod plow horses brought from home. Weaponry consisted of crude squirrel rifles unsuited for warfare.

On their first deployment to the Indian Territory, many of them were stricken with debilitating illnesses. Desertions increased accordingly, becoming a greater threat than the Union Army. The Confederate commander of the Indian Territory, Brig. Gen. Albert Pike, considered them a gross nuisance. He wrote, I would have sent them over the Red River long ago, for part of them nearly crazed me. During a heated exchange with one of their officers, he threatened to shell them out of their camp.

In Missouri, they saw action at Newtonia in September 1862, but that did little to help their reputation. Major General Thomas C. Hindman, commander of the Trans-Mississippi Department, had finally lost patience with his unruly Texas cavalry; he took away their horses, forcing them to fight as infantry. In January 1863, a merger with the 15th Texas Infantry averted a mutiny at their Fort Smith camp. Now under the command of Colonel Joseph W. Speight, they were ordered back to the Indian Territory because of a lingering food shortage. Weakened by starvation, his men plodded through eight inches of snow, falling at an alarming rate along the way. Recalled Private Alfred T. Howell of the 34th Texas:

By day, I limped along in my rundown boots, holes wearing into my feet. At night, my feet swelled and I could not stand. Men died every day. They laid themselves down. They would not move and they died. Men died on the wagons. From Fort Smith to the Mouth of the Kiamichi where we camped, our trail was a long graveyard.

After a miserable winter camp near Doaksville, Speights frostbitten troops were ordered to Louisiana by Lt. Gen. Edmund Kirby Smith, named Trans-Mississippi commander in March 1863. Upon their arrival in Shreveport, Smith inspected his new brigade; his assessment was grimmer than Pikes. Along with the continuing lack of discipline, a third of the Texans had no arms whatsoever. He wanted to completely dissolve the 22nd and 34th regiments and disperse them to more seasoned Texas regiments. Smith later changed his mind; he placed the two regiments in a drill camp established four miles from Shreveport by his aide de camp Colonel William R. Trader. Leaving two regiments behind, Speight led the 15th and 31st regiments south to reinforce the command of Maj. Gen. Richard Taylor. Teaming with Brig. Gen. Thomas Greens First Texas Cavalry Brigade, they aided the capture of 453 Union troops at the September 1863 Battle of Stirlings Plantation. But soon the troubled regiments received a new commander, Polignac, who would manage to bring out their best possible combat performance.

The Prince de Polignac was born to a noble French family on February 16, 1832, in Millemont, France. His father was a chief minister in the short-lived French court of Charles X. Young Polignac served as a lieutenant in the French army during the 1853-56 Crimean War. After his service, he traveled to Central America to study geography.



Base of Operations The Alexandria, La., waterfront. Union forces occupied Alexandria, which Maj. Gen. Nathaniel Banks hoped to use as a key supply port during the Red River Campaign, on March 15, 1864. ( Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)

When the Civil War began, Polignac sided with the Confederacy, and served as a lieutenant colonel on the staffs of Generals P.G.T. Beauregard and Braxton Bragg. He saw action at the 1862 Siege of Corinth and at the Battle of Richmond, Ky., and was promoted to brigadier general in January 1863. In March, Polignac moved to the Trans-Mississippi Department, where Smith assigned him command of the brigade of unruly Texans. At first, they were not pleased with their new commander. Wrote Taylor:

The Texans swore that a Frenchman, whose very name they could not pronounce, should never command them, and a mutiny was threatened. I went to their camp, assembled the officers, and pointed out the consequences of disobedience, for which I would hold them accountable; but promised that if they remained dissatisfied with their new commander, I would remove him.

Polignac was fully briefed on the recurring deficiencies of his problem brigade. He immediately set about laboring diligently to improve the Texans morale and discipline. Their drilling complete, they followed him south to Simmesport, La. While there, they supported Confederate batteries shelling Union vessels on the Mississippi River. On February 7, 1864, the Texans tackled a more ambitious objective: a surprise attack on the Federal post at Vidalia. Brandishing his sword, Polignac exhorted his men, Follow me! Follow me! You call me polecat, I will show you whether I am Polecat or Polignac!

Federal gunboats fended off their attack, but not before Polignacs men made off with 400 cattle, horses, and mules. More important, the Texans had gained a newfound respect for their General Polecat.

follow me! Follow me! You call me polecat, I will show you whether I am polecat or polignac. -Camille Armand Jules Marie, Prince de Polignac

In March, Union Maj. Gen. Nathaniel Banks launched an ambitious offensive up the Red River, a key transportation route in the region. Supported by the ironclad fleet of Rear Admiral David Dixon Porter, 30,000 troops marched north from New Orleans or arrived south by steamboat from Vicksburg. Their objective was Shreveport, the headquarters of the Confederate Trans-Mississippi Department and a gateway to the valuable eastern Texas cotton fields. If Federal forces secured the region, cotton-

starved New England textile mills would again have access to an abundant source of the desperately needed raw material.

A combined naval and infantry assault forced the main Confederate Red River post, Fort de Russey, to surrender on March 14. Porter, along with Brig. Gen. A.J. Smiths infantry, proceeded upriver to Alexandria, joining with Banks New Orleans troops. A second blow was dealt when Brig. Gen. Joseph Mowers brigade surprised the campsite of the 2nd Louisiana Cavalry. About 250 cavalrymen were captured along with their horses. Fortune smiled but sprang a trick when Banks reached the village of Grand Ecore, La.

The river was too low for Porters fleet to proceed farther. Four days from Shreveport, Banks made the fateful decision to leave the protection of the fleets guns, advancing instead along a narrow, rutted stage road from Grand Ecore. The road wound through a dense pine forest with few clearings. To make matters worse, Banks encumbered his march with an immense supply train of 1,000 wagons. Timing was crucial; Shreveport had to be taken within a week or he would lose the services of Smiths two veteran infantry corps, both on loan from Maj. Gen. William T. Shermans Army of the Tennessee. Upon reaching Natchitoches, Banks wrote confidently to Washington: Our troops now occupy Natchitoches. We hope to be in Shreveport by the 10th of April. I do not fear concentration of the enemy at that point. My fear is that they may not be willing to meet me there. All too familiar with Banks shortcomings, President Lincoln noted dryly upon learning of Banks communique from Chief of Staff Henry W. Halleck: I am sorry to see this tone of confidence; the next news we shall hear from there will be of a defeat.

Little Frenchman, I am going to fight banks here if he has a million men. -Maj. Gen. Richard Taylor

Meanwhile, Taylor retreated 200 miles in the face of Banks overwhelming numbers. Having learned tactics under Stonewall Jackson, he was anxious to go over to the offensive. He dispatched a note to Smith requesting permission to attack, later writing, I would have fought a battle even against the heavy odds. It would have been better to lose the State after a defeat than to surrender it without a fight. Even though he received no reply from Smith, Taylor decided to attack anyway. On April 8, he began forming his 5,300 troops at Mansfield, three miles south of Shreveport, in a line consisting of two divisions: Louisiana and Texas troops, under Brig. Gen. Alfred Mouton, on the left and Texans, under Maj. Gen. John G. Walker, on the right. Moutons Division, which included Polignacs misfit Lone Star boys, would attack first. With the Yanks occupied, Walker was to follow with an attack on the left. Both divisions would act like a door hinge, crushing the Federals in between.



Pyrrhic Victory: The April 9, 1864, Battle of Pleasant Hill, La., one day after the Federal debacle at Mansfield, was technically a Union victory, but heavy casualties prompted Banks shaken army to retreat, effectively ending his Red River Campaign. ( Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)

Banks dangerously extended column helped even the odds for Taylor. Out front was Brig. Gen. Albert L. Lees 3,500-man cavalry division, which soon came upon a Confederate force assembled in a clearingmuch larger than Rebel units they had previously encountered. Lee requested reinforcements, and 13th Corps commander Brig. Gen. Thomas E.G. Ransom sent him two brigades. Under Colonel William J. Landram, they formed a line directly opposite Taylor. Alerted to the Rebel presence, the remainder of Banks force began marching toward Landram.

Tom Greens Texas Cavalry Division slowed Banks with repeated attacks, buying precious time for Taylor to assemble and organize his men for the attack. Taylor told Polignac, Little Frenchman, I am going to fight Banks here if he has a million men. Yet he had only three hours of daylight left to attack. But better now, Taylor reasoned, while he still had a slim numerical edge. At 4 p.m., Mouton attacked Landram from the left. While smoking a cigar, Taylor calmly watched the action astride his horse. Advancing in echelon, Moutons regiments were met with a firestorm of musket and cannon fire. The balls and grape shot crashing about us whistled terribly, and plowed into the ground and beat our soldiers down even as a storm tears down the trees of a forest,one Louisiana soldier recalled.

A Rude Introduction Two years before the Battle of Mansfield, Brig. Gen. Richard Taylor met Maj. Gen. Nathaniel Banks in battle in Virginias Shenandoah Valley. Commanding the Louisiana Brigade, Taylor served under the overall command of Maj. Gen. Thomas J. Stonewall Jackson. The Louisianans were well known for their hard fighting and relentless marching. On May 25, 1862, Jacksons troops forced Banks back to a defensive line just outside Winchester, Va., capturing so many wagons they referred to Banks as Commissary Banks. The Union right flank rested on Bowers Hill just outside the town. Jackson ordered the hill be taken. With sword drawn, Taylor personally led his men on horseback. Watching the advance, Robert L. Dabney, Jacksons chief of staff, wrote, They marched up the hill in perfect order, not firing a shot! About half-way to the Yankees, in a loud and commanding voice that I am sure the Yankees heard, he gave the order to charge. Taylors men took the hill, routing Banks from the field. Observing his soldiers fleeing through Winchester, Banks yelled out to them, Stop men! Dont you love your country? A young private reportedly replied, Yes, by God, and Im trying to get back to it just as fast as I can! Two months after his stunning success at the First Battle of Winchester, Taylor was promoted to major general and given command of the Department of Western Louisiana. D.L.B.

By remaining mountedand thereby offering irresistible targets to Union riflemenMouton and his senior officers were soon struck down, with Polignac assuming Moutons command. Walker had begun advancing on the right as the Federals battled Moutons assault. The Texans flanked the Union line, forcing a withdrawal. Three cannons were captured, then promptly turned on Landrams men. The Union withdrawal quickly became a rout. Ransom was wounded in the knee and had to be carried from the field. Both of Landrams brigade commanders were captured.

Landrams fleeing troops plowed into a reinforcing column of 1,500 men under Brig. Gen. Robert A. Cameron. The 4th Division of the 13th Corps was swept away in the confused melee. Screaming the Rebel Yell, Taylors infantry was right on its heels. Men found themselves swallowed up, as if it were in a hissing, seething, bubbling whirlpool of agitated men, who could not avoid the current, wrote Private Frank M. Flinn of the 38th Massachusetts. General Banks took off his hat and implored his men to remain

Unable to turn their wagons around on the narrow, tree-lined road, panic-stricken teamsters unhitched their horses and galloped away. Scores of prisoners, cannons, and abandoned wagons were scooped up in the wake of Taylors attack. At Pleasant Hill, Banks finally rallied his shattered column to hold off Taylor. Seeking the protection of Porters gunboats, he left the field the following day. Belatedly, Taylor finally got a reply from Smith on his earlier request to attack. Typically cautious, Smith urged him not to bring on a general engagement. Replied Taylor: Too late, sir, the battle is won. Thanks to the courage and fighting skills of Taylors force, notably Polignacs Texans, Banks had been dealt a stunning defeat that led to a full withdrawal to Alexandria and an ignominious end to the Red River Campaign.

Fight Facts Battle of Mansfield, LA. April 8, 1864 CAMPAIGN Red River (MarchMay 1864) Combined Union Army-Navy offensive up the Red River to capture Shreveport, La., headquarters of

the Confederate Trans-Mississippi Department, and secure a gateway to eastern Texas cotton. COMMANDERS Confederate: Maj. Gen. Richard Taylor (overall commander)

Maj. Gen. John G. Walker

Brig. Gen. Alfred Mouton

(replaced by Brig. Gen. Prince de Polignac after Mouton KIA)

Brig. Gen. Thomas Green Union: Maj. Gen. Nathaniel Banks (overall commander)

Brig. Gen. Thomas E.G. Ransom

Brig. Gen. Robert A. Cameron

Brig. Gen. Albert L. Lee NUMBERS Confederate: 5,00014,000 infantry, cavalry, and artillery (disparity is due to large but unrecorded numbers of paroled Vicksburg Rebels joining the battle) Union: 14,000 infantry, cavalry, and artillery FORCES ENGAGED Confederate: Moutons Division (includes Polignacs Texas Brigade)

Walkers Division

Greens Cavalry Division Union: 4th Division, 13th Corps

3rd Division, 13th Corps

Lees Cavalry Division ESTIMATED CASUALTIES Confederate: 1,000 killed and wounded Union: 694 killed and wounded

1,423 captured or missing

(Prisoners sent to Camp Ford near Tyler, Texas) OUTCOME Confederate victory



Polignacs unit suffered 213 casualties, and he was promoted to major general, effective June 1864. His grateful Texans, now under the command of Colonel James Harrison, presented their former commander with a fine horse. Polignac promised he would ride the noble charger across Texas after the war to visit them. In March 1865, however, he was sent back to France to drum up support from Emperor Napoleon III. The war ended before he could accomplish his mission.

Nevertheless, this was not Polignacs last war. He remained overseas and rejoined the French army as a brigadier general. In the 1870-71 Franco-Prussian War, he commanded a division in a losing effort that produced both a united Germany and the Third French Republic.

The Prince de Polignac died in Paris on November 15, 1913, aged 81. At the time of his death, he was the last surviving Confederate major general of the Civil War.

Donald L. Barnhart Jr., who writes from The Colony, Texas, is a regular contributor to Americas Civil War.
In December 1969 the effort to recover two downed airmen snowballed into the biggest rescue mission of the Vietnam War

The mission went wrong almost from the start. Two U.S. Air Force F-4C Phantoms of the 558th Tactical Fighter Squadron, call sign Boxer, found their primary target weathered over. They diverted north to the village of Ban Phanop, Laos, near a chokepoint where the Ho Chi Minh Trail crossed the Nam Ngo River, to sow the ford with Mk-36 mines500-pound Mk-82 low-drag bombs with fuses in their tails. In the trailing aircraft, Boxer 22, pilot Capt. Benjamin Danielson and weapons systems officer 1st Lt. Woodrow J. Woodie Bergeron Jr. were on their first sortie together. Just after dropping their ordnance, the Phantom suddenly pitched up, then down. Their flight leader called over the radio: Boxer 22, youre hit! Eject! Eject! Eject!

It was Friday morning, Dec. 5, 1969, and Boxer 22 was about to become the objective of the biggest rescue mission of the Vietnam War.

Ejecting, Danielson and BergeronBoxer 22 Alpha and Bravocame down on opposite sides of a dogleg in the Nam Ngo, in a valley a mile across and a thousand feet deep, walled with karst, limestone cliffs. They were just 10 miles from the North Vietnam border, but only about 65 miles east of NKPNakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Base, the main base for U.S. Air Force special operations squadrons specializing in search and rescue.



The crew of Boxer 22. Weapons systems officer Woody Bergeron, at left, and pilot Benjamin Danielson immediately became hunted prey of enemy troops. (Courtesy Don Hollway) The crew of Boxer 22. Weapons systems officer Woody Bergeron, at left, and pilot Benjamin Danielson immediately became hunted prey of enemy troops. (Courtesy Don Hollway)

A-1 Skyraider fighter-bombers scrambled, and a summons went out for HH-3E Jolly Green Giant rescue choppers, fast jets and forward air controllers (spotter planes to direct the attack aircraft). Standard procedure was to find and extract downed airmen before enemy forces concentrated on their position. Unfortunately, the enemy was already concentrated around Ban Phanop.

Sandy 1, this is Boxer 22 Alpha, Danielson radioed the first Skyraiders to arrive. I need help now! Ive got bad guys only 15 yards away, and they are going to get me soon.

1st Lt. James G. George, the Skyraider leader, answered the call: 22 Alpha, this is Sandy 1. Keep your head down. Were in hot with 20 Mike Mike. Four Skyraiders raked the enemy troops with 20mm cannon fire.

It was as if the entire valley answered back. From his position Bergeron saw the enemy open up with 23, 37 and 57mm anti-aircraft artillery and heavy machine-gun fire from positions in the karst paralleling the river. Evading the fountain of tracer rounds, George informed King 1, the HC-130 Hercules airborne command post orbiting 24,000 feet above Laos, We are going to need everything you can get a hold of.

Word of the Boxer 22 shootdown had already been passed up the chain of command to 7th Air Force headquarters at Tan Son Nhut air base near Saigon and from there to Pentagon East, U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam. From all over Indochina, American air power converged on Ban Phanop: F-100 Super Sabres, F-105 Thunderchiefs, Navy A-6 Intruders, more Phantoms and more Skyraidersguns and bombs, rockets and napalm to pound those enemy guns into submission.

George assured Bergeron and Danielson, Were going to lay CBU [cluster bomb units] all around you, and then we are going to bring in the choppers in to scarf you up and well all go home for a beer. But he urged two Jolly Greens standing by five miles to the west to move fast: Lets get this done. I dont think we can waste any time.

At 12:40 p.m. Capt. Charles Hoilman took JG-37 in for the rescue. His crew reported an increasing trail of flak following the chopper as it approached the pickup point. The moment they slowed to a hover over Danielsons position, the Jolly Green became a big, stationary target, and the enemy brought every gun to bear. With the fuselage riddled and the turbines overheating, Hoilman climbed out to the northeast. Ive got to go home, he radioed. Ive burned the shit out of these engines.

In retaliation, Skyraiders saturated the cliffs with napalm and the valley with tear gas. But when JG-09 arrived, the enemy fired small arms and two 23 mm cannons from the karst caves, driving it off with a transmission leak, hot temps and malfunctioning controls. Less than two hours in, the rescue had turned into a pitched battle.

The Americans called in new HH-53E Super Jolly Greensbigger, more powerful, better armed and armored. The Skyraiders dropped cluster bombs and fired 20 mm shells to within 100 feet of JG-76, remembered pilot Capt. Holly G. Bell: It sounded like we were caught in a popcorn machine.



An HH-53 Super Jolly Green Giant helicopter, similar to the ones used in the Boxer 22 rescue, awaits the crew of its next mission. (U.S. Air Force) An HH-53 Super Jolly Green Giant helicopter, similar to the ones used in the Boxer 22 rescue, awaits the crew of its next mission. (U.S. Air Force)

As Bells chopper swung in over Danielson, tail gunner Airman 1st Class David Davison hosed half the valley with a red stream of tracer fire at 4,000 rounds per minute, but he was outgunned. The helicopter received multiple shots to the fuselage and rotor system and began to vibrate hard. I knew if we took more hits, my Jolly would be shot down, Bell later reported. During egress from the valley, I received notification that Davison had been badly hit. Struck in the head, the airman would be posthumously awarded the Silver Star. (Two months later, Bell and his entire crew would be shot down and killed during another search and rescue operation.)

By now the enemy game plan was obvious: Hole up while the Skyraiders and jets did their worst, and then, when the rescue choppers came in, emerge from cover and let them have it. A burst of fire cut a hydraulic line in JG-69, piloted by Capt. Jerald Brown. The spraying fluid caught a spark, and the helicopter climbed away gushing flames.

An enemy 37mm shell blew a two-by-four-foot hole in the belly of Maj. Jerry Cruppers JG-79. Hovering in JG-68, Maj. Hubert Berthold remembered seeing the entire area lit up with tracers from both sides, from both the karst and the ground. His chopper took fire a full five miles west of the crash site. The crews were lucky to survive.

Skyraider pilot Col. Daryle Tripp, deputy commander of operations of the 56th Special Operations Wing, told everyone: We have at least 45 minutes to sunset. We will make at least one other attempt. But its fairly apparent from the gunfire out here that I just saw that there is still more work to be done.

Capt. Donald Carty got his JG-72 to within 30 feet of Danielson before being driven off. We were so low and it was so dark on the egress that we almost hit the karst, he said. I advised against making another attempt because it was too dark and our mini-guns were either jammed or out of ammo.

Ninety aircraft had dropped almost 350 bombs and rockets on the Nam Ngo valley, but as night fell the enemy was still there and its tracers rounds streamed up for the Americans. The AAA was firing above us across the entire valley, with the tracers ricocheting off the side of the karst on the opposite side, recalled a low-flying Skyraider pilot. It was like being in the bottom of a tunnel of fire.

Five of seven helicopters that had taken serious hits were unlikely to be repaired by morning, and it was unclear if the remaining two would ever fly again. Commander Tripp broke the news to the Boxer 22 crew: We have run out of helicopters, and I want you to bed down. Try to get yourself dug in, and we will be out here first thing in the morning.

Good night, see you in the morning, Bergeron replied. He decided to stay where he was and just dug deeper in the foliage and debris I was hiding in. Bergeron and Danielson kept in touch with their survival radios. Neither of us slept that night.

At Nakhon Phanom air base, ground crews worked into the morning to have their birds ready by dawn. The 7th Air Force commander, Gen. George S. Brown, informed the Pacific Air Forces command and the top military commanders in Saigon that all aircraft in theater, except those supporting troops in direct enemy contact, would be used in the rescue effort. As of sunup, virtually the entire air war above Southeast Asia was to be fought over Boxer 22.

Meanwhile, Bergeron had a front-seat view of the enemy supply convoys crossing the Nam Ngo a quarter-mile to the north. Id sit and count the trucks, and I learned how they got the trucks across the ford. Theyd hold up flashlights one way to start the winch, another way to pull the truck across, and another way to stop it.

But the North Vietnamese knew he and Danielson were still out there. I could hear the enemy looking for Ben, Bergeron said. They would go to a clump of trees or other spots where he might be hiding and fire off a few AK-47 rounds. No one came looking for me.

On Saturday, Tripp resumed command over Ban Phanop at 6 a.m. They were still organizing the aircraft for a rescue attempt when Bergeron reported that the North Vietnamese had just killed Danielson. They were talking in a fairly normal tone, and then all of a sudden they started yelling, like they found him. They shot a very long burst of AK-47 bullets. I heard Ben scream. It was definitely him. I knew that he had been killed.

There was no time to mourn. Enemy troops were already wading the river toward Bergerons position. I decided they werent taking prisoners. If they came over to where I was hiding, I was going to try to fight it out with my pistol. He called in Skyraiders and Phantoms to strafe the river with 20mm fire, and the soldiers physically disappeared.

Aircraft streamed down one after another through the narrow valley. On cross routes, Phantoms targeted the gun caves with AGM-12c Bullpup air-to-ground missiles, AGM-62 Walleye glide bombs and 2,000-pound laser-guided Paveway smart bombs. Watch out for midair collisions with the Skyraiders raking the valley floor underneath you, Tripp warned, and check the big AAA guns on the tops of the east karsts as you pull off.

The big 2,000-pounders homed in right over Bergerons head. He remembered, When the Paveways would hit, it would physically throw me in the air about two inchesa beautiful feeling. As the valley filled with smoke, gas and dust, the guided weapons had trouble locking onto their targets, but they only had to get close. When Bergeron saw a Paveway hit halfway up the cliff wall above a gun site, the explosion literally just dumped the mountain down on top of them, he said.

For five hours the valley was cluster-bombed, napalmed, rocketed and shot up, with ordnance hitting dangerously near Bergerons position. The closest they came to me with 20mm cannon fire was about 1 foot, he recalled. A tear gas bomblet actually bounced off his chest; one whiff was enough to make him urinate and retch all at the same time, he said. Physically and mentally you cant control yourself. (In 1993 an international treaty banned the use of tear gas in warfare.)

The Skyraiders smoke corridortwo banks of gas and white phosphoruswas so massive it was visible from space, as recorded by a Nimbus III weather satellite shortly before noon. Pilots could see the smoke from Nakhon Phanom, 65 miles away. At 5,000 feet, it looked like a Texas sandstorm, a Skyraider pilot remembered. The airstrikes were so heavy that the 7th Air Force began running low on smoke bombs.

Down in the acrid haze, visibility dropped to near zero. Jolly Greens made six rescue attempts, but whenever the air over the Nam Ngo valley wasnt thick with smoke, it was full of bullets. As soon as the choppers came to a hover over Bergeronone so low that its rotors clipped the treestheir wash swept everything clear, and the enemy gunners found them.

At 6 p.m. the days last rescue attempt failed. Night fell, the American planes drew off, and the North Vietnamese closed in. I knew that the enemy was aware I was hiding somewhere on the bank of the river, Bergeron said, and it was just a matter of time until they found me. About 15 minutes after dark, three enemy soldiers emerged from cover, tossed a tear gas bomblet into his bamboo thicket and sprayed it with AK-47 rifle fire. All they found was his survival gear. Bergeron had moved 40 feet to the north and was hiding under exposed tree roots. In the scramble, though, he had lost his .38-caliber revolver. If those guys had a flashlight, he realized, they could have found me.

Before the last Skyraider departed, its pilot had advised, If the river is deep enough, get in it and go downstream. When no enemy troops were in sight, Bergeron waded in, but was too worn out to swim. He dragged himself to a bush overhanging the bank and got under it. Lying there in the darkness, exhausted and hungry, listening to enemy trucks rolling past on both sides of the river, he drifted in and out: During the night I began to hallucinate. I envisioned two members of my squadron were with me, discussing my plans of action.

At Nakhon Phanom, nobody was giving up. The ramps and taxiways were jammed with aircraft being repaired, refueled and reloaded, as all hands worked to get them patched up and ready for another go in the morning.

After nearly 48 hours in enemy territory, Bergeron was on his last legs: I was drinking water out of the river and had only a little food. Finally, at 5:15 a.m., the lead Skyraider picked him up on radio and asked him to authenticate. Whats your best friends name?

He replied, Weisdorfer.

The Skyraider pilot had to laugh. I dont even have time to check it, but its gotta be you. By 6:30 a.m., the valley was under renewed attack. American aircraft forced the enemy gunners to take cover and laid a fresh smoke corridor. Lt. Col. Clifton Shipman took HH-53 JG-77 down for the pickup and was immediately submerged in smoke. When we got down on the river, he reported, we could see absolutely nothing. But the enemy could see them. The helicopter took fire from a camouflaged truck, and Shipman spotted an estimated 500 to 1,000 troops to the northwest, massing for an attack.

During the past two days, Skyraider leader Maj. Tom Dayton of the 22nd Special Operations Squadron had flown four separate helicopter escort missions, only to see 15 rescue attempts fail. Now he ordered the Skyraiders into two rotating daisy chain formations on either side of Bergerons position, 10 to the west and 12 to the east, circling like a pair of gears to grind the enemy with smoke, gas and cannon fire. The truck gun was quickly silenced. The valley was sanitized and saturated with smoke. Shipman refueled JG-77 in midair, and his gunners topped off their mini-guns. Everybody was ready for another try. Dayton gave the go-ahead at 11:40 a.m.



Riding the "penetrator" rescue hoist a Pararescueman (right) brings back another rescued airman. (U.S. Air Force) Riding the "penetrator" rescue hoist a Pararescueman (right) brings back another rescued airman. (U.S. Air Force)

Coming from the east, Shipmans crew couldnt spot Bergeron. Dayton, flying overhead, talked them in. They flew over me, Bergeron remembered, did a 360-degree turn and then lowered the penetrator, a bullet-shaped, anchor-like rescue hoist with spring-loaded flip-out seats. After days of popping smoke and flares, the only thing left that Bergeron could signal with was his vinyl escape chart, a scale map of enemy territory. He bolted from his hole waving the charts white side. The penetrator landed about 4 feet away from me in the water, Bergeron said. I put the strap on first and then flung the penetrator beneath me.

Meanwhile, Shipmans tail gunner was hosing his mini-gun at 20 to 30 enemy soldiers just 50 feet away; the left-side gunner was spraying troops across the river. The crew dragged Bergeron aboard and the Jolly Green powered upward. Weve got him, Shipman announced, and were coming out!

Every radio over Ban Phanop promptly jammed with cheers. Dayton (who was awarded the Air Force Cross, just below the Medal of Honor in valor awards) ordered everybody home. Over Nakhon Phanom the Jolly Greens streamed red smoke from their tail ramps in victory. Every ground crewman, air crewman and the entire command staff crowded around Shipmans aircraft, and Bergeron emerged to roaring applause.

Bergeron was awarded the Silver Star for his intelligence of enemy operations at the Nam Ngo ford and after the war flew A-10 Thunderbolt II attack jets, retiring in 1987 as a lieutenant colonel.

The rescue of Boxer 22 was the largest search and rescue mission of the Vietnam War. A total of 336 sorties were flown by aircraft that expended 1,463 smart bombs, high-explosive bombs, cluster bombs, smoke bombs, napalm bombs and rocket pods over the course of three days. Skyraiders alone flew 242 sorties; the HH-3 and HH-53 helicopters, over 40. Five Skyraiders were damaged, but the Jolly Greens got the worst of it. Five of the 10 involved never flew again.

In 2003 a Laotian fisherman discovered human remains, a partial survival vest, a survival knife and Danielsons dog tags along the banks of the Nam Ngo. On June 15, 2007, Lt. Cmdr. Brian Danielson of U.S. Navy Electronic Attack Squadron 12918 months old when his father was shot downlaid his father to rest in his hometown, Kenyon, Minnesota. At the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., Danielson and JG-76 tail gunner Dave Davison are remembered next to each other on panel 15W, lines 26 and 27. 

Don Hollway thanks Woodie Bergeron and retired Maj. Gen. Daryle Tripp for their help in telling this story. For more information, photos and audio, visit donhollway.com/boxer22.

Saving Boxer 22 appeared in the October 2018 issue of Vietnam.
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The U.S. State Department is against attempts by the South Korean government to revive package tours to Mt. Kumgang in North Korea.

Asked to comment on recent remarks by Hyundai Group chairwoman Hyun Jeong-eun on the issue, a State Department spokesperson told Voice of America on Aug. 4, "Sanctions remain in full effect until North Korea takes concrete action to denuclearize."

Hyun, whose group has little other business except elevators and containers, expressed hope that the package tours will resume this year.

"The full implementation of UN Security Council resolutions by the international community brought us to this moment, and will ensure a successful outcome of this process," the spokesman added. "We remain in close coordination with [South] Korea in regard to North Korea."

The U.S. is getting increasingly worried that Seoul is trying to jump the gun and revive cross-border projects before North Korea takes any steps toward denuclearization.

Another issue Seoul has been making optimistic noises about is reopening the joint-Korean Kaesong Industrial Complex.

Last week, a State Department official told VOA, "We support the 2016 decision to shut down the Kaesong complex in the face of the [North Korea]'s destabilizing and provocative actions."

Meanwhile, the White House has worked out a draft executive order imposing a 45 percent tariff on imports from countries that did business with North Korea last year, according to American news website Axios on Sunday. The draft was reportedly prepared by Peter Navarro, one of U.S. President Donald Trump's top trade advisers, last September.
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JAKARTA Campaigners with the Dog Meat-Free Indonesia coalition are celebrating a major breakthrough in their efforts to end the brutally cruel dog and cat meat trades, following a national government pledge to ban the trades. The DMFI comprising local and international groups Animal Friends Jogja, Jakarta Animal Aid Network, Change For Animals Foundation, Humane Society International and Four Paws, have exposed the suffering of the dog and cat meat trade through shocking nationwide investigations where dogs and cats were filmed being bludgeoned to death and blowtorched alive, as well as exposed the routine theft of pet dogs and the rabies risk the trade poses to locals and tourists alike.

The announcement came at a National Coordination of Animal Welfare meeting in Jakarta held on August 1st and 2nd by the Directorate of Veterinary Public and attended by national and regional government representatives. At the close of the meeting, all national participants agreed to issue a ban on the trade of dog and cat meat in Indonesia and to prohibit the issuance of health certification for dog and cat meat for human consumption.

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This agreement comes just days after campaigners from the Dog Meat Free Indonesia coalition issued a public warning that millions of global tourists could be at risk of exposure to the deadly rabies virus spread by the countys illegal dog and cat meat trade, and just two weeks before the country hosts the 18th Asian Games, when some three million tourists are expected to visit the capital city of Jakarta. In January the DMFI also coordinated a letter to President Joko Widodo calling for urgent action and signed by over 90 national and international celebrities including Cameron Diaz, Chelsea Islan, Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, Sophia Latjuba, Simon Cowell and Ellen DeGeneres. DMFIs global petition has also been signed by over 930,000 people from around the world.

The extreme cruelty of Indonesias dog and cat meat trades is intolerable under both Indonesia and international animal welfare standards, and the government is right to be concerned about the impacts of these trades on its international reputation. With our growing awareness of animal sentience comes a greater responsibility to protect animals from cruelty. Customs evolve and the nationwide movement from within Indonesia calling for an end to these trades is proof that Indonesia is ready to banish the dog meat trade to the history books of shame and illegality. This latest announcement will be celebrated globally!  Lola Webber, Director at Change For Animals Foundation.

Given the growing evidence of the risk the trade poses to rabies transmission, coupled with the evidence of animal cruelty and illegality, the international community wholeheartedly welcomes and applauds this groundbreaking development in Indonesia.  Katherine Polak, FOUR PAWS.

We greatly appreciate the governments initiative, especially the Directorate of Veterinary Public Health, for hosting this important meeting to discuss a number of animal welfare issues including the dog and cat meat trade, and applaud the huge progress that is being made. Finally, the government acknowledges that the cruelty of the dog and cat meat trade is unacceptable and must be stopped.  Karin Franken, Jakarta Animal Aid Network.

This is such a victory for Indonesia and the Indonesian government has given us hope and motivation to collaborate with the government. We are one step closer to a dog and cat meat-free Indonesia!  Bobby Fernando of Animal Friends Jogja.

The dog and cat meat trade is utterly brutal, a risk to human health and largely fueled by crime, so we applaud the Indonesian government for pledging to end the trade following our DMFI investigations. We hope that this bold step will send a strong message to other countries across Asia, such as China, South Korea, India and Vietnam where 30 million dogs and 10 million cats suffer unimaginable cruelty for the meat trade, many of them stolen pets. We stand ready to work with the Indonesian authorities to implement a robust ban, end the slaughter, and bring us one step closer to shutting down these dreadful trades for good.  Kitty Block, President, Humane Society International.

The meeting in Jakarta last week was attended by all representatives of livestock and animal health departments, animal quarantine agencies, veterinary faculty academics, the Indonesian Veterinary Medical Association and several non-governmental organizations from all provinces in Indonesia.

Mr Syamsul Maarif DVM , M.Si , Director of veterinary public health warned of the impacts the dog meat trade is having on animal welfare and described the trade as torture for animals after reviewing DMFIs investigation footage. He also cited the risk the trade poses to Indonesias international reputation, warning that foreign countries find a low standard of animal welfare and cruelty unacceptable and will stop visiting Indonesia which is very bad for our tourism. He added that dog meat or any animal that is not registered as farm animals, is illegal and that the way in which the dogs were handled and transported alone were a violation of animal welfare and must be stopped.

Indonesias tourism industry has already experienced the impact of international outrage when in June 2017, investigations in Bali exposed the horrors of the tourist islands hidden dog meat trade. Tourists were unknowingly being sold dog meat under the guise of chicken satay. Further global outrage occurred in January 2018 following the DMFIs expose of Tomohon Market  described by DMFI investigators as walking through hell  which resulted in TripAdvisor removing its promotions of the citys market stating that, We have investigated the TripAdvisor listing page for Tomohon Extreme Market and concluded that it does not meet the standards set by our listings policy. As a result, we have permanently removed the listing from both our site and our app.

The results of this national meeting will be used as a recommendation for the Ministry of Agriculture to formulate a PERMENTAN (Minister of Agriculture regulations) regarding the ban on trade in dog and cat meat and that of exotic animals in Indonesia. Donate and take action to help.

Download broadcast quality video footage and photos: www.dogmeatfreeindonesia.org/resources/rabies-and-dog-theft

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT DETAILS:

DMFI Campaign Coordinator/ Change for Animals Foundation Director: Lolawebber@changeforanimals.org; Tel. +62 813 3740 8768

Jakarta Animal Aid Network (JAAN) Co-Founder/ Programmes Director: Karin Franken (Jakarta, Indonesia): jaan_adopt@yahoo.com; Tel. +62 82122487794

Animal Friends Jogja (AFJ) Programmes Director: Bobby Fernando (Yogyakarta, Indonesia) animalfriendsjogja@gmail.com; Tel. +62 8562930912

Humane Society International (HSI) Director International Media: Wendy Higgins (London, UK): whiggins@hsi.org
What Its Like To Be An Artist Today  Ryan Leslie, Emma McGann, Black Coffee, More

Here a variety of different artists and managers working within the Midem hub recount what it's like to be operating in the music business today, and how changes in technology have effected so many aspects of the industry.

_____________________________

Guest post via Midem

Artists and managers play a huge part in making global music conference Midem a dynamic hub, buzzing with creativity and business know-how, and this year some of them get the chance to recount what it is like to be an artist today.

Ryan Leslie, US artist and founder of SuperPhone, is a Grammy-nominated recording artist, multi-platinum music producer, and avid technologist. In addition to logging studio time with Madonna, Jay-Z, Kanye West and Beyonce, he is the architect and ultimate case study for his company Disruptive Multimedias simple CRM for creators, a Twilio-enabled product called SuperPhone. I believe that the greatest satisfaction for any artist comes from discovery and consumption of the works that they create. Today more than ever the channels available provide a powerful pathway for increased exposure, he said. At the same time, a greater number of channels and outlets, yields greater complexity as each channel has its own respective optimal communication elements. Advances in technology enable artists today to actually own the relationships that they are building and invest in direct channels that will enable them to continue the dialogue with their audiences irrespective of any shifts in social-media platform popularity.

According to Emma McGann, artist, ambassador and partner at the UKs YouNow/Rize, digital tools make life easier, but also more complicated: Theres a wide selection of tools available today that help artists grow, market themselves and reach wider audiences, but with this access the market does become more saturated, she said. Theres tons of new music out there everyday. So more than ever, artists have to focus on what makes their sound and image unique to cut through the noise. Thinking outside the box is a necessity regardless of what tools you choose to use.

China-based DJ and artist manager Allyson Toy agreed: The age of interconnectivity has its ups and downs, but ultimately I feel it has complicated the role of a music manager. One of the obvious advantages of the digital age is the ease and speed at which you can create and distribute music and connect with fans, which has in many ways made music discovery more democratic. Were less reliant on traditional music industry gatekeepers like record labels or radio, which is great for independent artists, she said. On the flipside, with the relative speed and ease of content creation, the volume of output is higher than ever, making it a considerable challenge for individuals to cut through the noise, and even if they do, they then have to maintain fans attention. The role of an artist has morphed into that of a music maker, and a public persona that requires a constant dialogue, upkeep, and steady output.

According to Annabella Coldrick of the European Music Managers Forum: Being a manager is more complicated than ever. The proliferation of digital services from music streaming to socials and the data that goes with them offer artists greater possibilities to connect with and build their fan base, at a lower cost than ever before. However the bandwidth to sift between these and the time required to execute strategies puts increasing pressure on the manager and illustrates how important it is to stay informed with changes in the industry and consumer behaviour. She added: Exciting new developments including the use of blockchain for music streaming and ticketing may well be the next great leap forwards, but were not there yet. Keeping an eye on future trends while focusing on present opportunities is essential for all managers.

Few DJs have had such a dramatic impact on both their local community and indeed a whole nation as South African DJ and producer Black Coffee. His success has seen him adopted as a symbol of positivity in his home country. Black Coffee had his first big break in 2015 when he won the Breakthrough DJ Of The Year award at the DJ Awards in Ibiza.

Black Coffee said that the life of a DJ has changed dramatically with digital technology. He remembers carrying flight cases of records around the world when he started out. But today I carry memory sticks which are backed up in the cloud in case anything happens, which is great, he said. Also, as an artist today, with social media you can connect directly with your audience, allowing you to communicate anything about what youre doing, and the greater the numbers, the more you grow your career.

Artist manager, Juan Paz, said the availability of data is a positive element of the industry today. I became a manager in the digital age of music, so I am used to looking at stats on a daily basis, but I guess that before, relying only on instinct must have been difficult and perhaps unproductive. Certainly, there was data and information, but not with the immediacy and accuracy of today. Having access to this information supports a more transparent management-artist relationship, which drives confidence, and that is perhaps the most important factor in our job. He added: The challenge is that the business has become extremely complex with too many aspects and little details to look at. Sometimes 24-hour days are not enough!

Nigerian artist Yemi Alade said direct contact with fans is another positive: Its satisfying that you have a platform to reach your fanbase much more easily and quickly. Its such an exciting time to be an artist, especially in Africa, where there are so many talented and creative musicians who are breaking boundaries.

For artist and owner of Roaring Girl Records, Canadian-born Miranda Mulholland: The digital revolution promised the elimination of the middle man but it has actually delivered the exact opposite. While there are some advantages to being able to target audiences, the companies that have inserted themselves in the middle of that exchange, taking advantage of artists hard-won relationships with their audiences and exploiting their loyalty, make it frustrating. Artists are told that discoverability is the reward for making your music available for fractions of cents. But in essence, the marketplace has changed the way listeners consume music. Passive listening is now the norm. My hope is that the ephemerality of live musical experiences recovers and grows its value.

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President Moon Jae-in has appointed several new Cheong Wa Dae secretaries who were student activists in the 1980s alongside him and his mentor Roh Moo-hyun.

The appointments were part of an organizational reshuffle, presidential spokesman Kim Eui-kyeom said Monday.

Jung Hyun-kon, the new presidential secretary for civic participation, used to work for civic groups like the Citizens Peace Forum and was twice imprisoned by the military regimes of the 1980s and 90s for violations of the National Security Law.

Jung took part in protests against the construction of a naval base on Jeju Island and is co-author of a book that questions the government's conclusion that North Korea sank the Navy corvette Cheonan in 2010.


Some of the 15 rising seniors or recent high school graduates who participated in the MCLA/BCC Summer Academy pose with their completion certificates on Friday. The students earned up to six college credits.

Local Students Graduate From College-Sponsored Summer Academy

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  More than a dozen high school seniors and recent graduates earned college credits this summer through the MCLA/BCC Summer Academy program.

Friends and family gathered for the graduation luncheon this past Friday in the Conte Federal Building to celebrate the students achievement over the monthlong program.

The Summer Academy program, first instituted in 2016, has been designed to give motivated young adults a headstart into college by providing them with two free college courses; Statistics 101 and English 101, both of which award three college credits upon completion.

These credits can be transferred to any state-accredited college inside or out of Massachusetts, which can end up saving students thousands of dollars in tuition.

It also gives participants an opportunity to work a paid internship in a field that interests them over the summer, a free laptop, and a free lunch for every day of the program.

The academy is staffed by faculty and advisers from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and Berkshire Community College, which jointly administer the program, and from the local high schools. The internships are available through Berkshire County Regional Employment Board.

With college just around the corner, students were able to gain insight and experience into possible future career paths through their internships.

My internship was a position in journalism at iBerkshires.com, which gave me the opportunity to report on my experience with the program.

Kelby Lesage is a rising senior at Drury High School in North Adams, who is considering a future in social services. The academy allowed him to explore this field when he landed an internship at the Berkshire Community Action Council in Pittsfield.

"I could hardly have asked for a better experience out of my first-ever job," he said. "I've learned a great deal about how public assistance works  This internship experience and the knowledge I gained have encouraged me to strongly consider pursuing a career in the public sector."

As a student of the academy myself, I can safely state that it was a worthwhile experience. The chance to earn six college credits for free, plus get a paid internship, is one that I would recommend to anyone who plans on advancing their education after high school.

Matt McGrory worked at iBerkshires.com during the program, writing articles and learning about the news business.
Igor Greenwald has crafted his own ordinance creating a Police Oversight Commission.

Pittsfield Considering Citizens Oversight of Police Department



Police Chief Michael Wynn doesn't disagree with the concept of a citizens advisory group to increase transparency but how the ordinance is written matters. PITTSFIELD, Mass.  On Sept. 1, 2017, Jacquelyn Sykes made a decision she will regret for the rest of her life.

She called the police for help.

Her boyfriend Daniel Gillis was distraught that day. He was stressed out about moving to Boston for a job and earlier he had gotten into with a co-worker and thought he may have lost that opportunity. That afternoon he was drunk when Sykes got home. She got him in the car and was planning to take him to his mother's house to sleep it off.

But he pulled on the steering wheel and Sykes brought the car to a halt. He got out and went to her house and kicked in the door to get inside.

"I called the Pittsfield Police Department for help and I'll probably always regret my decision to make that call," Sykes said.

While she waited for officers, she noticed Gillis had a bottle of her medication and fearing he'd use them to take his own life, she barged in to take them away. He was suicidal and had a kitchen knife in his hand. Sykes pulled it away and ran out of the back door. She told the cops what happened.

"I thought they understood that time was on their side if they'd just wait him out," she said.

More officers arrived and instead of waiting, they were yelling at Gillis, she said. Gillis, with another knife in hand, came out of the house when, she said, the last officer to arrive on scene shot him seven times.

"Danny was never tased or pepper sprayed. I'm convinced that had police controlled the situation and given Danny just a little time, room, and calm, it would have only been a matter of time before all the medicine he'd taken kicked in," she said.

She was interrogated and denied the ability to see his body. She remembers running from the hospital home after she was finally told that Gillis had died. When she did get home, she said she had to argue with officers on the scene to get a change of clothes.

Later she went to the Police Station and asked to speak to a detective about filing charges against the officer but was denied an interview as the case was under an internal investigation.

A month after that, the Police Department determined that Officer Christopher Colello had done nothing wrong during the response.

That didn't end Sykes' issues with the department. She saw officers poking around the home at 11 p.m. one night and when she had a rally in protest of police shootings, she said officers in cruisers were driving by "flipping us off, yelling things out the window at us."

Elizabeth Calkins has somewhat of a similar story when officers arrived at her home in 2012. She was getting ready for work and they arrived looking to take her to the hospital. She was confused, didn't have any appointments scheduled, and just wanted to go to work. After a few minutes of back and forth about it, she said she asked point blankly if she was being arrested and apparently the officers said no. So, she asked if she could leave.

"And the officers looked at each other, and I don't recall their exact phrasing at this point, but the gist of the reaction to each other was a 'looks like we have to do this the hard way' sort of sentiment," Calkins said.

Soon enough she was face down on the ground, her arm being twisted, and a knee dug deep into her back. She said she could barely breathe. Then she was cuffed and placed in the back of the cruiser.

She alleges that one line in a message she sent to Elder Services about one of its employees led the agency to file for a Section 12 to get a psychiatric evaluation. She had written: "I feel like your agency treats me like you wish I didn't exist so you didn't have to deal with me while caring for my mother."

"You can have a Section 12 called on you based solely on a doctor you have never met taking a single line completely out of context. That can involve the police manhandling you and nearly suffocating you and dragging you off in handcuffs despite you not being a threat and not being charged with a crime. They don't have to tell you why you're being taken away and that will all be seen as standard police practice," Calkin said.

There is really no place to bring those issues  whether it be police procedures or the actions of a single officer  in Pittsfield. The police will do their own investigation of a complaint and come out with its own determination.

For Calkin and Sykes, police investigating each other doesn't seem right.

The pair gave lengthy testimonies on Monday to the City Council's Rules and Ordinances subcommittee in support of creating a Police Oversight Committee.

Igor Greenwald has heard many stories like that and put forth a concept of creating the new commission to do an independent investigation of such complaints. He'd like to see the citizen's group be well trained in doing such investigations and be the place to handle not only complaints but to weigh in and review police policy and procedure  including such things as the use-of-force policies.

He wants the group to keep data on public safety issues and provide statistics on crimes reported and solved by category, arrests, charges, use-of-force instances, locations of no-knock warrants, the number of complaints and have a yearly report available to the public to understand what's happening in law enforcement. He'd like to look into providing training to de-escalate a situation.

Greenwald had his own negative encounter in 2012 when police took his son in for a psychiatric evaluation after he said a teacher at Berkshire Arts and Technology Public Charter School reported the boy as dangerous because of a social media post.

He told police he'd go to the media or file a lawsuit over it and he said what he got was the "nice-middle-aged-man treatment" from police leadership that promised him that the officer would get a talking to. He said he received a letter later that said the officer would be counseled about his manner but Greenwald said, "in reality, nothing was or has since been addressed. The department's leadership had merely swept under the rug another symptom of poor training, another instance of abusive conduct."

Greenwald doesn't believe he, Sykes, and Calkins are the only ones. He said for every police abuse story heard, there are "several victims who won't step forward."



Judith Knight, who is running for district attorney, voiced favor of the city crafting such an oversight committee. "There have been lots of clues about this department's lack of professionalism," Greenwald said and then recited a number of other incidents that have raised eyebrows including the wrongful arrest of three black men for a fight on Third Thursday, tackling an 88-year-old old woman, an officer being found guilty of embezzlement, the city settling a case over the way officers forced grandparents to surrender their grandchildren to social agencies, and more recently an officer standing trial for an alleged assault.

"The killing of Daniel Gillis was not only regrettable, it was likely avoidable and is furthermore seen by many Pittsfield residents as unjust. It seems unjust because the response of the officer who shot him looks grossly disproportional to the danger Daniel posed. It seems unjust because there are better tactics and models out there and because the leadership of the Police Department and the city doesn't seem to care," Greenwald said.

Attorney Judith Knight, who is running for district attorney, chimed in to say she currently has a case in which she is convinced officers used excessive force. She said there needs to be an oversight group to help build trust between law enforcement and the public.

"There is a desperate need in Pittsfield in particular," Knight said.

Police Chief Michael Wynn doesn't vastly disagree with the intention of Greenwald and others. In fact, he had petitioned for an advisory board a decade ago.

But Wynn said the administration in 2008 "watered it down." He tried again a few years later and a subsequent administration got one off the ground, but it too wasn't up to par with the intent to increase transparency and best practices. That group ultimately fizzled out.

"I've been dealing with an ineffective response to my request for 10 years," Wynn said.

Last year, Greenwald sat down with Mayor Linda Tyer, some city councilors, and City Solicitor Richard Dohoney to talk about a new committee that would have more authority. Attorneys, however, determined that Greenwald's vision faced legal issues  particularly around the committee's ability to subpoena witnesses and officers. The attorneys said that it violated the Civil Service process for discipline  including the rights of the accused officer. And that it could conflict with a criminal investigation.

"We drafted the ordinance that we put forward. We believe that offers the most amount of transparency and oversight without violating civil service law," Wynn said.

Wynn said they had looked at other ordinances in places like Springfield and Cambridge and while there is subpoena power written, the committee can't actually use it.

"You can pass an ordinance but if you haven't done some research up front you can have stuff that can't be done operationally," Wynn said.

Greenwald, however, said the ordinance doesn't provide enough. Particularly, the committee will only see internal investigation reports after they are done by the department. He said that will leave the committee members ineffective.

"In the absence of fact-finding powers, the board would be entirely reliant on the self-interest and predictable friendly conclusions of police probes into police conduct. Its handpicked members, stripped of the modest authority and initiative permitted elsewhere, will turn into a rubber stamp and ultimately like their predecessors into members of a board that never meets," Greenwald said.

"We had so much more than this in mind when we asked the mayor and the police chief to develop a new model for police accountability last year."

Ward 6 Councilor John Krol called it disappointing that department found no wrongdoing in the Colello case and he, too, supports a citizens committee "with teeth."



Ward 6 Councilor John Krol said the ordinance needs more "teeth." Now in the midst of a national conversation regarding the relationship between the police and the public, the city is looking to craft some type of citizens group that can be a place people feel comfortable taking complaints when they feel an officer has done them wrong, and increase transparency into police process.

Councilor at Large Melissa Mazzeo said right now it is so easy for a video clip to go viral on the internet portraying an officer doing wrong when they hadn't. An oversight committee could also help officers, too, by clearing their names independently rather than leaving the suspicion of a cover-up, she said.

"If I were a police officer, I'd want something like this," Mazzeo said, adding that the debate before the council is not an "us versus them."

Greenwald has now put forth his own version of the ordinance and the council has the mayor's plan. The Ordinance and Rules Committee is now looking to find a way to craft an ordinance that will work for all parties and be legally sound.




iciHaiti - Politic : Presidential Order appointing Jean Henry Ceant as Prime Minister





Monday, following consultations with the Presidents of the two Houses of Parliament, the President announced that he had chosen the citizen Jean Henry Ceant as new Prime Minister https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-25163-haiti-flash-moise-chooses-jean-henry-ceant-as-new-prime-minister.html . This decision was published Monday, August 6 in the official journal "Le Moniteur" No. 138.



Text of the Presidential Order :



"In regard to articles 133, 136, 137, 155, 157, 159, 160 and 163 of Constitution;

Considering the resignation of the Government;



ORDER



Article 1 - Citizen Jean Henry CEANT is appointed Prime Minister.



Article 2. A certified copy of this Order will be issued to the person concerned.



Article 3. Article3.- This Order will be printed, published and executed for the purposes of law.



Given at the National Palace, Port-au-Prince, August 5, 2018, Year 215 of Independence



By :



Jovenel MOISE"



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-25163-haiti-flash-moise-chooses-jean-henry-ceant-as-new-prime-minister.html



IH/ iciHaiti


















The 25th ASEAN Regional Forum in a closing chairman's statement on Aug. 4 urged North Korea to abide by its promise of "complete denuclearization."

The attending foreign ministers from 27 countries urged North Korea "to fulfill its stated commitment to complete denuclearization and its pledge to refrain from further nuclear and missile tests."

The formula leaves out the crucial element of verification, which was also left out of a statement signed by U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un at their summit in June.

Last year's forum still used the formula "complete, verifiable and irreversible dismantlement" of the North's nuclear program, which the U.S. taunted until days before the summit but now seems to have abandoned.

"The Ministers reiterated their commitment to the full implementation of all relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions and international efforts to bring about the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, which will contribute to peace and stability in the region," the statement adds.
Manishkumar Patel, shown in court May 22, 2017, was convicted of attempted homicide for slipping an abortion drug into his pregnant mistresss smoothie. The Indian American faces a maximum sentence of 60 years in prison. (screen grab of ABC2 WBAY video)
Nikhil Arora, vice president and managing director of GoDaddy India, says that women in tier 2 and 3 cities in India are eager to learn digital skill so that they can grow their businesses online. (IANS photo)
By Finian Cunningham



August 06, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - So the US news media are in uproar over President Trumps latest admission that a meeting between his son and a Russian lawyer more than two years ago was about getting dirt on Hillary Clinton.



With self-righteous probity, Trump's political and media enemies are declaring him a felon for accepting foreign interference in the US presidential election.



Admittedly, President Trump appears to have been telling lies about the past meeting, which took place at Trump Tower in New York City in the summer of 2016. Or maybe it's just this American president shooting himself in the foot  again  with his inimical gibberish-style.



However, the burning issue of "foreign interference" is being stoked out of all proportion by Trump's enemies who want him ousted from the White House.

US constitutional law forbids candidates from receiving help from foreign governments or foreign nationals.

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Thus, by appearing to accept a meeting with a Russian lawyer in June 2016  during the presidential campaign  the Trump election team are accused of breaking US law.

The alleged transgression fits in with the wider narrative of "Russiagate" which posits that Republican candidate Donald Trump colluded with the Kremlin to win the race to the White House against Democrat rival Hillary Clinton.

Russia has always denied any involvement in the US elections, saying the allegations are preposterous. Moscow also points out that in spite of indictments leveled by American prosecutors, there is no evidence to support claims that Russian hackers meddled in the presidential campaign, or that the Kremlin somehow assisted Trump.

The Russian lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, who met with the Trump campaign team in early June 2016 is described in US media as "Kremlin-linked". But that seems to be just more innuendo in place of facts. She denies any such connection. The Kremlin also says it had no relation with the attorney on her business of approaching Team Trump.

In any case, what is being totally missed in the latest brouhaha is the staggering hypocrisy in the US media circus over Trump. Let's take Trump at his word  not a reliable source admittedly  that his campaign team were trying to "get dirt" on Clinton. That would appear to be a violation of US law.

If Trump is going to be nailed for improper conduct with regard to alleged foreign assistance, then where does that leave Hillary Clinton and US intelligence agencies?

During the presidential campaign, Clinton's team contracted a British spy, Christopher Steele, to dig up dirt on Trump in the form of the so-called "Russian dossier". That was the pile of absurd claims alleging that the Kremlin had blackmailing leverage over Donald Trump. It was Steele's fantasies that largely turned into the whole Russiagate affair which has dominated US media and politics for the past two years.

Not only that, but now it transpires that the Federal Bureau of Investigation also paid the same British spy to act as a source for the FBI's wiretapping of Trump's associates, according to declassified documents obtained by Judicial Watch, a US citizens' rights group.

The real, shocking interference in US democracy was not by Russia or Trump, but by American secret services working in collusion with the Clinton Democrats to distort the presidential elections. This scandal which Princeton Professor Stephen Cohen has labeled "Intelgate" is far more grievous than the Watergate crisis which resulted in President Richard Nixon's ignominious resignation back in the mid-1970s.

The Obama administration's intelligence agencies and the Democrats attempted to sabotage the 2016 presidential election in order to keep Trump out of the White House. They failed. And they have never gotten over that defeat to their illegal scheming.

The Russiagate claims are just a sideshow. As American writer Paul Craig Roberts, among others, has commented, the media-driven "witch hunt" against Trump and Russia is blown out of all proportion in order to distract from the real scandal which is Intelgate  and how millions of American voters were potentially disenfranchised by the US intelligence apparatus for a political power grab.

Another staggering hypocrisy in the US media kerfuffle over Trump and alleged Russian interference is that all the fastidious hyperbole completely ignores actual foreign interference in American democracy  foreign interference that is on an absolutely colossal scale.

As American critical thinker Noam Chomsky points out, "Israeli intervention in US elections overwhelms anything Russia may have done".

Israel's interference includes the multi-million-dollar lobbying by such groups as the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and its financial sponsorship of hundreds of lawmakers in both houses of Congress. Many critics maintain that the entire Congress is in effect "bought" by AIPAC.

Chomsky referred specifically to the occasion in 2015 when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu snubbed then President Obama by addressing the US Congress with a speech openly calling for lawmakers to reject the internationally-backed nuclear deal with Iran.

During his election campaign, Donald Trump reportedly received a $20 million donation from the American-Israeli casino mogul Sheldon Adelson. Adelson has Israeli citizenship. Is that not foreign help, according to definition of US laws?

Trump has since shown himself to do Adelson's and Israel's bidding by walking away from the Iran deal and in pushing stridently pro-Israeli interests in the conflict with Palestinians.

Another foreign benefactor in US politics is the so-called Saudi lobby and other oil-rich Gulf Arab states. Millions of dollars are funneled into Congress by these dubious regimes to shape US government foreign policy in the Middle East. For several decades, Saudi oil money is also documented to be a major contributor to the CIA and its off-the-books covert operations around the world.

Foreign interference in US politics  in which often nefarious foreign interests are promoted over those of ordinary American citizens  is conducted on a gargantuan and systematic scale. But this massively illegal interference in flagrant violation of US laws is stupendously ignored by the American media.

Trump is being assailed over an alleged scandal regarding Russia which is, by any objective measure, negligible.

The whole Russiagate narrative is sheer hysteria driven by anti-Trump forces who do not want to accept the result of the 2016 election. It is, in effect, a coup attempt by unelected political forces.

Such lies are an odious distortion of the truth by America's real enemies who are its own domestic political and media operators trying to cover up their anti-constitutional crimes. What's even more despicable is that these people are willing to inflame US-Russia relations to the point of starting a war between two nuclear powers.

Finian Cunningham has written extensively on international affairs, with articles published in several languages. He is a Masters graduate in Agricultural Chemistry and worked as a scientific editor for the Royal Society of Chemistry, Cambridge, England, before pursuing a career in newspaper journalism. He is also a musician and songwriter. For nearly 20 years, he worked as an editor and writer in major news media organisations, including The Mirror, Irish Times and Independent.

This article was originally published by " Sputnik " -

The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House.
Home Search ICH Saudi Arabia Cut Secret Deals With al-Qaida Fighters



Yemen war binds US, allies, al-Qaida



By Maggie Michael, Trish Wilson and Lee Keath August 06, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - ATAQ, Yemen (AP)  Again and again over the past two years, a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and backed by the United States has claimed it won decisive victories that drove al-Qaida militants from their strongholds across Yemen and shattered their ability to attack the West. Heres what the victors did not disclose: many of their conquests came without firing a shot. Thats because the coalition cut secret deals with al-Qaida fighters, paying some to leave key cities and towns and letting others retreat with weapons, equipment and wads of looted cash, an investigation by The Associated Press has found. Hundreds more were recruited to join the coalition itself. These compromises and alliances have allowed al-Qaida militants to survive to fight another day  and risk strengthening the most dangerous branch of the terror network that carried out the 9/11 attacks. Key participants in the pacts said the U.S. was aware of the arrangements and held off on any drone strikes. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter The deals uncovered by the AP reflect the contradictory interests of the two wars being waged simultaneously in this southwestern corner of the Arabian Peninsula. In one conflict, the U.S. is working with its Arab allies  particularly the United Arab Emirates  with the aim of eliminating the branch of extremists known as al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP. But the larger mission is to win the civil war against the Houthis, Iranian-backed Shiite rebels. And in that fight, al-Qaida militants are effectively on the same side as the Saudi-led coalition  and, by extension, the United States. Elements of the U.S. military are clearly aware that much of what the U.S. is doing in Yemen is aiding AQAP and there is much angst about that, said Michael Horton, a fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, a U.S. analysis group that tracks terrorism. However, supporting the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia against what the U.S. views as Iranian expansionism takes priority over battling AQAP and even stabilizing Yemen, Horton said. The APs findings are based on reporting in Yemen and interviews with two dozen officials, including Yemeni security officers, militia commanders, tribal mediators and four members of al-Qaidas branch. All but a few of those sources spoke on condition of anonymity, fearing reprisals. Emirati-backed factions, like most armed groups in Yemen, have been accused of abducting or killing their critics. Coalition-backed militias actively recruit al-Qaida militants, or those who were recently members, because theyre considered exceptional fighters, the AP found. The coalition forces are comprised of a dizzying mix of militias, factions, tribal warlords and tribes with very local interests. And AQAP militants are intertwined with many of them. One Yemeni commander who was put on the U.S. terrorism list for al-Qaida ties last year continues to receive money from the UAE to run his militia, his own aide told the AP. Another commander, recently granted $12 million for his fighting force by Yemens president, has a known al-Qaida figure as his closest aide. In one case, a tribal mediator who brokered a deal between the Emiratis and al-Qaida even gave the extremists a farewell dinner. Horton said much of the war on al-Qaida by the UAE and its allied militias is a farce. It is now almost impossible to untangle who is AQAP and who is not since so many deals and alliances have been made, he said. The U.S. has sent billions of dollars in weapons to the coalition to fight the Iran-backed Houthis. U.S. advisers also give the coalition intelligence used in targeting on-the-ground adversaries in Yemen, and American jets provide air-to-air refueling for coalition war planes. The U.S. does not fund the coalition, however, and there is no evidence that American money went to AQAP militants. A look at al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, its roots, motivations, and role in Yemens civil war. (AP Video/Peter Hamlin) The U.S. is aware of an al-Qaida presence among the anti-Houthi ranks, a senior American official told reporters in Cairo earlier this year. Because coalition members back militias with hard-line Islamic commanders, its very, very easy for al-Qaida to insinuate itself into the mix, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity under the terms of the briefing. More recently, the Pentagon vigorously denied any complicity with al-Qaida militants. Since the beginning of 2017, we have conducted more than 140 strikes to remove key AQAP leaders and disrupt its ability to use ungoverned spaces to recruit, train and plan operations against the U.S. and our partners across the region, Navy Cmdr. Sean Robertson, a Pentagon spokesman, wrote in an email to the AP. A senior Saudi official commented by saying that the Saudi-led coalition continues its commitment to combat extremism and terrorism. An Emirati government spokesman did not reply to questions from the AP. The coalition began fighting in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis overran the north, including the capital, Sanaa. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are determined to stop what they consider a move by their nemesis, Iran, to take over Yemen, and their professed aim is to restore the internationally recognized government of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi. Al-Qaida is leveraging the chaos to its advantage. The United States is certainly in a bind in Yemen, said Katherine Zimmerman, a research fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. It doesnt make sense that the United States has identified al-Qaida as a threat, but that we have common interests inside of Yemen and that, in some places, it looks like were looking the other way. Within this complicated conflict, al-Qaida says its numbers  which U.S. officials have estimated at 6,000 to 8,000 members  are rising. An al-Qaida commander who helps organize deployments told the AP that the front lines against the Houthis provide fertile ground to recruit new members. Meaning, if we send 20, we come back with 100, he said. The well-known commander communicated with AP via a secure messaging app on condition of anonymity because he had no authorization from the group to talk to the news media. ___ The Associated Press reported this story with help from a grant from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. ___ A FAREWELL DINNER FOR AL-QAIDA In February, Emirati troops and their Yemeni militia allies flashed victory signs to TV cameras as they declared the recapture of al-Said, a district of villages running through the mountainous province of Shabwa  an area al-Qaida had largely dominated for nearly three years. It was painted as a crowning victory in a months-long offensive, Operation Swift Sword, that the Emirati ambassador to Washington, Yousef al-Otaiba, had proclaimed would disrupt the terrorist organizations network and degrade its ability to conduct future attacks. The Pentagon, which assisted with a small number of troops, echoed that promise, saying the mission would weaken the groups ability to use Yemen as a base. But weeks before those forces entry, a string of pickup trucks mounted with machine guns and loaded with masked al-Qaida militants drove out of al-Said unmolested, according to a tribal mediator involved in the deal for their withdrawal. The U.S. has killed al-Qaidas top leaders in a drone strike campaign that accelerated in recent years. But in this victory  as in the others touted by the coalition  the mediator said armed U.S. drones were absent, despite the large, obvious convoy. Under the terms of the deal, the coalition promised al-Qaida members it would pay them to leave, according to Awad al-Dahboul, the provinces security chief. His account was confirmed by the mediator and two Yemeni government officials. Al-Dahboul said about 200 al-Qaida members received payments. He did not learn the exact amounts, but said he knew that 100,000 Saudi rials ($26,000) were paid to one al-Qaida commander  in the presence of Emiratis. Under the accord, thousands of local tribal fighters were to be enlisted in the UAE-funded Shabwa Elite Force militia. For every 1,000 fighters, 50 to 70 would be al-Qaida members, the mediator and two officials said. Saleh bin Farid al-Awlaqi, a pro-Emirati tribal leader who was the founder of one Elite Force branch, denied any agreements were made. He said he and others enticed young al-Qaida members in Shabwa to defect, which weakened the group, forcing it to withdraw on its own. He said about 150 fighters who defected were allowed into the Elite Force, but only after they underwent a repentance program. The clearing of al-Qaida from Shabwa and other provinces did not completely take place without fighting. Clashes erupted in some villages, usually with al-Qaida remnants that refused to play ball. One former al-Qaida member told the AP that he and his comrades turned down an offer of money from the Emiratis. In response, he said, an Elite Force squad besieged them in the town of Hawta until they withdrew. Overall, deals that took place during both the Obama and Trump administrations have secured al-Qaida militants withdrawal from multiple major towns and cities that the group seized in 2015, the AP found. The earliest pact, in the spring of 2016, allowed thousands of al-Qaida fighters to pull out of Mukalla, Yemens fifth-largest city and a major port on the Arabian Sea. The militants were guaranteed a safe route out and allowed to keep weapons and cash looted from the city  up to $100 million by some estimates  according to five sources, including military, security and government officials. Coalition fighter jets and U.S. drones were idle, said a senior tribal leader who saw the convoy leaving. I was wondering why they didnt strike them. A tribal sheikh shuttled between AQAP leaders in Mukalla and Emirati officials in Aden to seal the deal, according to a former senior Yemeni commander. Coalition-backed forces moved in two days later, announcing that hundreds of militants were killed and hailing the capture as part of joint international efforts to defeat the terrorist organizations in Yemen. No witnesses reported militants killed, however. We woke up one day and al-Qaida had vanished without a fight, a local journalist said, speaking to AP on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals. Soon after, another accord was struck for AQAP to pull out of six towns in the province of Abyan, including its capital of Zinjibar, according to five tribal mediators involved in the negotiations. Again, the central provision was that the coalition and U.S. drones cease all bombings as AQAP pulled out with its weapons, the mediators said. The agreement also included a provision that 10,000 local tribesmen  including 250 al-Qaida militants  be incorporated into the Security Belt, the UAE-backed Yemeni force in the area, four Yemeni officials said. For nearly a week in May 2016, the militants departed in trucks. One of the mediators told the AP that he threw the last of the departing fighters a farewell dinner among his olive and lemon orchards when they stopped at his farm to pay their respects. Another mediator, Tarek al-Fadhli, a former jihadi once trained by al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, said he was in touch with officials at the U.S. Embassy and in the Saudi-led coalition, keeping them updated on the withdrawal. When the last one left, we called the coalition to say they are gone, he said. ___ WE WILL UNITE WITH THE DEVIL To think of al-Qaida as an international terror group is to miss its other reality. For many Yemenis, it is simply another faction on the ground  a very effective one, well-armed and battle-hardened. Its members are not shadowy strangers. Over the years, AQAP has woven itself into society by building ties with tribes, buying loyalties and marrying into major families. Power players often see it as a useful tool. Hadis predecessor as Yemens president, long-ruling strongman Ali Abdullah Saleh, set the model. He took billions in U.S. aid to combat al-Qaida after the 9/11 attacks, even as he recruited its militants to fight his rivals. Hadis current vice president, Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar, a military chief for decades, also has been accused of enlisting jihadis. In that light, it would almost be more startling if the militants were not involved against the Houthis, especially since al-Qaida militants are extremist Sunnis seeking the defeat of the Shiite rebels. Al-Qaida militants are present on all major front lines fighting the rebels, Khaled Baterfi, a senior leader in the group, said in a previously unpublished 2015 interview with a local journalist obtained by the AP. Last month, Baterfi said in a Q&A session distributed by al-Qaida that those at the front lines for sure know of our participation, which is either actual fighting with our brothers in Yemen or supporting them with weapons. Al-Qaida has reduced attacks against Hadis and Emirati-linked forces because assailing them would benefit the Houthis, Baterfi said. The branch is following guidance from al-Qaidas worldwide leader, Ayman al-Zawahri, to focus on fighting the rebels, another top AQAP member said in written answers to the AP. In some places, militants join battles independently. But in many cases, militia commanders from the ultraconservative Salafi sect and the Muslim Brotherhood bring them directly into their ranks, where they benefit from coalition funding, the AP found. The Brotherhoods Yemen branch is a powerful hard-line Islamic political organization allied to Hadi. Two of the four main coalition-backed commanders along the Red Sea coast are allies of al-Qaida, the al-Qaida member said. The coalition has made major advances on the coast, currently battling for the port of Hodeida. Video footage shot by the AP in January 2017 showed a coalition-backed unit advancing on Mocha, part of an eventually successful campaign to recapture the Red Sea town. Some of the units fighters were openly al-Qaida, wearing Afghan-style garb and carrying weapons with the groups logo. As they climbed behind machine guns in pick-up trucks, explosions from coalition airstrikes could be seen on the horizon. An AQAP member interviewed in person by the AP in May viewed the video and confirmed the fighters belonged to his group. His affiliation is known from his past involvement in AQAPs rule over a southern city. The impact of the intertwining of al-Qaida fighters with the coalition campaign is clearest in Taiz, Yemens largest city and center of one of the wars longest running battles. In the central highlands, Taiz is Yemens cultural capital, a historic source of poets and writers and educated technocrats. In 2015, Houthis laid siege to the city, occupying surrounding mountain ranges, sealing the entrances and shelling it mercilessly. Taiz residents rose up to fight back, and coalition cash and weapons poured in  as did al-Qaida and Islamic State group militants, all aimed at the same enemy. One liberal activist took up arms alongside other men from his neighborhood to defend the city, and they found themselves fighting side by side with al-Qaida members. There is no filtering in the war. We are all together, said the activist, who spoke on condition of anonymity. He said commanders received weapons and other aid from the coalition and distributed it to all the fighters, including al-Qaida militants. Abdel-Sattar al-Shamiri, a former adviser to Taizs governor, said he recognized al-Qaidas presence from the start and told commanders not to recruit members. Their response was, We will unite with the devil in the face of Houthis, al-Shamiri said. He said he warned coalition officials, who were upset but took no action. Taiz is in danger, al-Shamiri said. We will get rid of the Houthis and we will be stuck with terrorist groups. The activist and officials in the city said one of the main recruiters of al-Qaida fighters is Adnan Rouzek, a Salafi member tapped by Hadi to be a top military commander. Rouzeks militia became notorious for kidnappings and street killings, with one online video showing its masked members shooting a kneeling, blindfolded man. Its videos feature al-Qaida-style anthems and banners. Rouzeks top aide was a senior al-Qaida figure who escaped from a prison in Aden in 2008 along with other AQAP detainees, according to a Yemeni security official. Multiple photos seen by the AP show Rouzek with known al-Qaida commanders in recent years. In November, Hadi named Rouzek head of the Taiz Operations Rooms, coordinating the military campaign, and top commander of a new fighting force, the 5th Presidential Protection Battalion. Hadis Defense Ministry also gave Rouzek $12 million for a new offensive against the Houthis. The AP obtained copy of a receipt for the $12 million and a Rouzek aide confirmed the figure. Rouzek denied any connection to militants, telling the AP that there is no presence of al-Qaida in Taiz. Another coalition-backed warlord is on the U.S. list of designated terrorists due to his ties to al-Qaida. The warlord, a Salafi known as Sheikh Aboul Abbas, has received millions of dollars from the coalition to distribute among anti-Houthi factions, according to his aide, Adel al-Ezzi. Despite being put on the U.S. list in October, the UAE continues to fund him, al-Ezzi told the AP. The aide denied any links to militants and dismissed his bosss designation on the U.S. terror list. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that al-Qaida has fought on all the front lines alongside all factions. Right after the AP team spoke to him in Taiz, the team saw al-Ezzi meeting with a known senior al-Qaida figure, warmly hugging him outside the home of another former AQAP commander. Aboul Abbas runs a coalition-funded militia controlling several districts in Taiz. A 2016 video produced by al-Qaida shows militants in black uniforms with al-Qaidas logo fighting alongside other militias in districts known to be under his control. A former security official in Taiz said militants and Aboul Abbas forces attacked security headquarters in 2017 and freed a number of al-Qaida suspects. The officer said he reported the attack to the coalition, only to learn soon after that it gave Aboul Abbas 40 more pick-up trucks. The more we warn, the more they are rewarded, the officer said. Al-Qaida leaders have armored vehicles given to them by the coalition while security commanders dont have such vehicles. Wilson contributed from Washington. Keath contributed from Beirut. AP correspondent Desmond Butler also contributed to this report. This article was originally published by "AP " - The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. ====== Note To ICH Community We are currently searching for a new comment system as we have run out of options on how to prevent the constant bickering and attacks by troll's, whose intention is to paint our website and newsletter as, anti-Semitic, anti-American, pro-Russian fake news. We can no longer afford to invest hours of our time each day, trying to have people behave in a manner befitting those who say they are concerned for others, while offering abuse and hostility to other ICH community members. When we have found such a comment system we will restore the comment function. We ask that you assist us in dissemination of the article published by ICH to your social media accounts and post links to the article from other websites. 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I dont think either Nato or the EU has the slightest interest in chasing the provenance of weapons in the hands of Islamist fighters in Syria or anywhere else in the Middle East.

August 06, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - Readers, a small detective story. Note down this number: MFG BGM-71E-1B. And this number: STOCK NO 1410-01-300-0254. And this code: DAA A01 C-0292. I found all these numerals printed on the side of a spent missile casing lying in the basement of a bombed-out Islamist base in eastern Aleppo last year. At the top were the words Hughes Aircraft Co, founded in California back in the 1930s by the infamous Howard Hughes and sold in 1997 to Raytheon, the massive US defence contractor whose profits last year came to $23.35bn (18bn). Shareholders include the Bank of America and Deutsche Bank. Raytheons Middle East offices can be found in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Israel, Egypt, Turkey and Kuwait.

There were dozens of other used-up identical missile casings in the same underground room in the ruins of eastern Aleppo, with sequential codings ; in other words, these anti-armour missiles  known in the trade as Tows, Tube-launched, optically tracked and wire-guided missiles  were not individual items smuggled into Syria through the old and much reported CIA smugglers trail from Libya. These were shipments, whole batches of weapons that left their point of origin on military aircraft pallets.

Some time ago, in the United States, I met an old Hughes Aircraft executive who laughed when I told him my story of finding his missiles in eastern Aleppo. When the company was sold, Hughes had been split up into eight components, he said. But assuredly, this batch of rockets had left from a US government base. Amateur sleuths may have already tracked down the first set of numbers above. The 01 in the stock number is a Nato coding for the US, and the BGM-71E is a Raytheon Systems Company product. There are videos of Islamist fighters using the BGM-71E-1B variety in Idlib province two years before I found the casings of other anti-tank missiles in neighbouring Aleppo. As for the code: DAA A01 C-0292, I am still trying to trace this number.

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Even if I can find it, however, I can promise readers one certain conclusion. This missile will have been manufactured and sold by Hughes/Raytheon absolutely legally to a Nato, pro-Nato or friendly (i.e. pro-American) power (government, defence ministry, you name it), and there will exist for it an End User Certificate (EUC), a document of impeccable provenance which will be signed by the buyers  in this case by the chaps who purchased the Tow missiles in very large numbers  stating that they are the final recipients of the weapons.

There is no guarantee this promise will be kept, but  as the arms manufacturers Ive been talking to in the Balkans over the past weeks yet again confirm  there is neither an obligation nor an investigative mechanism on the part of the arms manufacturers to ensure that their infinitely expensive products are not handed over by the buyers to Isis, al-Nusra/al-Qaeda  which was clearly the case in Aleppo  or some other anti-Assad Islamist group in Syria branded by the US State Department itself as a terrorist organisation.

Of course, the weapons might have been sent (illegally under the terms of the unenforceable EUC) to a nice, cuddly, moderate militia like the now largely non-existent Free Syrian Army, many of whose weapons  generously donated by the west  have fallen into the hands of the Bad Guys; i.e. the folk who want to overthrow the Syrian regime (which would please the west) but who would like to set up an Islamist cult-dictatorship in its place (which would not please the west).

Thus al-Nusra can be the recipients of missiles from our friends in the region  here, please forget the EUCs  or from those mythical moderates who in turn hand them over to Isis/al-Nusra, etc, for cash, favours, fear or fratricidal war and surrender.

It is a fact, Im sorry to recall, that of all the weapons I saw used in the 15-year Lebanese civil war (1975-1990), not one was in the hands of those to whom those same weapons were originally sold.

These outrageous weapons shipments were constantly recorded at the time  but in such a way that you might imagine that the transfers were enshrined in law (American-made, Israeli-supplied used to be the mantra). The Phalange, in fact, also collected bunches of British, Soviet, French and Yugoslav armour  the Zastava arms factory in the Serbian city of Kragujevac, which I have just visited, featured among the latter  for their battles.

In eastern Aleppo, who knows what gifts to the citys surviving citizens in the last months of the war acquired a new purpose? Smashed Mitsubishi pick-up trucks, some in camouflage paint, others in neutral colours, were lying in the streets I walked through. Were they stolen by al-Nusra? Or simply used by NGOs? Did they arrive, innocently enough, in the lot whose documents, also found in Aleppo, registered Five Mitsubishi L200 Pick Up sent by Shipper: Conflict, Humanitarian and Security Department (Chase), Whitehall SW1A SEG London?

Of course they did  alongside the Glasgow ambulance I found next to a gas canister bomb dump on the Aleppo front line at Beni Zeid in 2016, whose computer codings I reported in The Independent at great length  five codings in all  and to which the Scottish Ambulance Authority responded by saying they could not trace the ambulance because they needed more details.

But back to guns and artillery. Why dont Nato track all these weapons as they leave Europe and America? Why dont they expose the real end-users of these deadly shipments? The arms manufacturers I spoke to in the Balkans attested that Nato and the US are fully aware of the buyers of all their machine guns and mortars. Why cant the details of those glorious end user certificates be made public  as open and free for us to view as are the frightful weapons which the manufacturers are happy to boast in their catalogues.

It was instructive that when The Independent asked the Saudis last week to respond to Bosnian weapons shipment documents I found in eastern Aleppo last year (for 120mm mortars)  which the factorys own weapons controller recalled were sent from Novi Travnik to Saudi Arabia  they replied that they (the Saudis) did not provide support of any kind to any terrorist organisation, that al-Nusra and Isis were designated terrorist organisations by Saudi Royal Decree and that the allegations (sic) were vague and unfounded.

But what did this mean? Government statements in response to detailed reports of arms shipments should not be the last word  and there is an important question that remained unanswered in the Saudi statement. The Saudis themselves had asked for copies of the shipment documents  yet they did not specifically say whether they did or did not receive this shipment of mortars, nor comment upon the actual papers which The Independent sent them.

These papers were not vague  nor was the memory of the Bosnian arms controller who said they went with the mortars to Saudi Arabia and whose shipment papers I found in Syria. Indeed, Ifet Krnjic, the man whose signature I found in eastern Aleppo, has as much right to have his word respected as that of the Saudi authorities. So what did Saudi Arabias military personnel  who were surely shown the documents  make of them? What does unfounded mean? Were the Saudis claiming by the use of this word that the documents were forgeries?

These are questions, of course, which should be taken up by the international authorities in the Balkans. Natos and the EUs writ still runs in the wreckage of Bosnia and both have copies of the documents I found in Aleppo. Are they making enquiries about this shipment, which Krnjic said went to Saudi Arabia, and the shipping documents which clearly ended up in the hands of al-Nusra  papers of which Nato and the EU had knowledge when the transfer was originally made?

I bet theyre not. For I dont think either Nato or the EU has the slightest interest in chasing the provenance of weapons in the hands of Islamist fighters in Syria or anywhere else in the Middle East  certainly not in the case of Damascus, where the west has just given up its attempt to unseat Assad.

Indeed, in a political landscape where regime change has become a moral, ethical objective, there can be no moral, ethical investigation of just how the merchants of death (the makers) manage to supply the purveyors of death (the killers) with their guns and mortars and artillery. And if any end user says that allegations of third parties are vague and unfounded  always supposing that the persons saying this are themselves end users  this, I promise you, must be accepted as true and unanswerable and as solid as the steel of which mortars are made.

Robert Fisk is an English writer and journalist. He has been Middle East correspondent intermittently since 1976 for various media; since 1989 he has been correspondent for The Independent, primarily based in Beirut.

This article was originally published by " The Independent " -

The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House.
By Scott Ritter

August 06, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - On July 22, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo addressed a crowd of Iranian-Americans, giving voice to a new American policy on Iran that seeks to undermine the legitimacy of the Iranian government. It would also strangle Irans economy through the reimposition of economic sanctions that had been set aside when Iran and five other Western nations, including the United States, came to an agreement in 2015 over Irans nuclear program.

According to this agreement, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, or JCPOA, Iran accepted sanctions on its nuclear program in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. When President Trump withdrew from the JCPOA in May, he promised to reimpose sanctions that had been approved by Congress, including those targeting Irans sale of oil. The goal of the Trump administration, Pompeo told the crowd, was to get [Iranian oil] imports as close to zero as possible by this November.

Pompeos address did not go over well in Tehran. Addressing a gathering of Iranian diplomats, Irans President Hassan Rouhani asked, Is it possible that everyone in the region sells their oil and we stand idly by and watch? Do not forget that we have maintained the security of this waterway [Strait of Hormuz] throughout history. We have historically secured the route of oil transit. Do not forget it.

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Approximately 18.5 million barrels of oil a day transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow channel of water separating Iran from Oman. The loss of this oil to the global economy would be devastating. On July 5, Rouhani commented on the American plan to shut down Irans oil imports, saying, The Americans say they want to reduce Iranian oil exports to zero.  It shows they have not thought about its consequences. While Rouhani had remained silent about what those consequences would be, Qasem Soleimani, the commander of the Quds Force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, made it clear that Iran would close the Strait of Hormuz to all oil traffic.

America should know that peace with Iran is the mother of all peace, and war with Iran is the mother of all wars, Rouhani said, warning the American president not to play with the lions tail, this would only lead to regret.

President Trumps response, delivered via Twitter the next day, caught the attention of the world.

NEVER, EVER THREATEN THE UNITED STATES AGAIN OR YOU WILL SUFFER CONSEQUENCES THE LIKES OF WHICH FEW THROUGHOUT HISTORY HAVE EVER SUFFERED BEFORE. WE ARE NO LONGER A COUNTRY THAT WILL STAND FOR YOUR DEMENTED WORDS OF VIOLENCE & DEATH. BE CAUTIOUS!

On July 24, the Iranian Armed Forces chief of staff, Maj. Gen. Mohammad Bagheri, responded to Trumps threats. As the dominant power in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, [Iran] has been the guarantor of the security of shipping and the global economy in this vital waterway and has the strength to take action against any scheme in this region, Bagheri said.

As our president correctly pointed out, the enemies, particularly America, whose centers of interest are within reach of the visible and hidden defense forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, should not play with the lions tail, the Iranian general said, because they will receive a strong, unimaginable and regrettable response of great magnitude in the region and the world.

That same day, President Trump addressed a gathering of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, seemingly a perfect venue for offering a bellicose response to the Iranian threats of action. Instead, the president offered up a fig leaf of sorts. Well see what happens, Trump said, but were ready to make a real deal, not the deal that was done by the previous administration, which was a disaster.

The seesawing rhetorical game of threat and counterthreat being played by Trump seems reminiscent of a similar approach taken late last year and early this year with North Korea over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Last August, responding to North Korean threats to test missiles capable of reaching the United States, Trump had declared that North Korea best not make any more threats to the United States, saying that if North Korea disregarded him, They will be met with fire and fury like the world has never seen. Trump later went on to famously belittle North Koreas leader, Kim Jong Un, as little rocket man, while Kim in turn responded by calling Trump a dotard and a warmonger whose true nature was that of a destroyer of the world peace and stability.

In June, Trump and Kim held a summit in Singapore, where they discussed the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula.

Many observers believe that Trump is reaching back to his North Korean playbook in engaging in the current hostile exchange with Iran. Iran, however, is not North Korea.

What follows are major reasons why Trump is wrong if he thinks Iran will accede to his demands that it renegotiate a nuclear agreement with the United States to replace the JCPOA.

Reason One: Iran Isnt Breaking the Law

North Korea was in open violation of numerous U.N. Security Council resolutions regarding its nuclear and ballistic missile programs, and there was (and is) widespread concurrence that North Koreas nuclear weapons program posed a clear and present threat to international peace and security. While Trumps hostile rhetoric toward Kim Jong Un represented American policy only, he was backed up by a global consensus that the threat from North Koreas nuclear arsenal was no longer acceptable. North Korea was on the wrong side of the law, and it knew it.

Iran, on the other hand, had successfully negotiated a nuclear agreement with the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, Germany and the European Union. Its nuclear program today operates in total conformity with the terms of that agreement. The Security Council had passed a resolution undoing the totality of the economic sanctions imposed on Iran because of its nuclear program. Trump withdrew from the JCPOA because of American domestic politics, not because Iran threatened international peace and security. As the United States moves to reimpose sanctions on Iran, one is struck by the number of nations rushing to its side to join in this endeavor: zero.

Simply put, there is no compelling narrative than can be crafted that has Iran walking away from the JCPOA.

Reason Two: Iran Doesnt Have to Win to Win

A war between the United States and North Korea, while potentially devastating for the entire region, had only one sure outcometotal American victory (at a huge cost), and the absolute destruction of the North Korean regime. In short, if Kim Jong Un opted for war with the United States, he would be committing suicideand taking millions of others down with him. Kim Jong Un is anything but suicidal. He built his arsenal of nuclear weapons for deterrence purposes, not to engage in a self-destructive acquisition of technology. North Koreas ultimate goal has been to break free of the international isolation it has been subjected to; nuclear weapons were a way to secure that outcome. The Singapore Summit occurred because of North Korean initiativesthe Olympic outreach, the meetings with South Korean leaders, and so on. Kim Jong Un was not compelled to go to Singaporea meeting with an American president was always his ultimate objective.

The Iranian government does not trust the United States and has no desire to engage in diplomatic relations with the United States. This does not mean that the two nations cannot peacefully coexistthey can, and Iran desires as much. But throwing the possibility of a grand bargain with the United States on the table in exchange for Iran giving up its nuclear program is sheer fantasy. As such, any effort to compel Iran into diplomatic engagement by threatening it with war is doomed to fail. Iran learned the lessons of Hezbollahs ongoing conflict with Israel, and in particular that of the 2006 war, all too well. To win the war, Hezbollah did not need to defeat Israel; it had only to make sure Israel did not defeat it. This is an ambition Iran readily aspires toit can shut down the Strait of Hormuz, cripple the global economy and ride out any American military response. In the end, the United States will succumb to international pressure and search for a negotiated settlement, and Iran will emerge victorious simply because it survived. Iran would accept this outcome rather than surrender its hard-won diplomatic achievement regarding the JCPOA.

Reason Three: Religious Democracy

North Korea is an absolute dictatorshipKim Jong Un need only gain the concurrence of his inner circle to move forward on ground-changing policy, such as improving relations with the United States. Even then, any voices of dissent can beand indeed, have beensummarily silenced. Kim Jong Un has a constituency of one when it comes to getting his policies approved: himself.

Iran is a far more complex problem when it comes to making policyan Islamic republic governed by a democratically elected executive and legislature whose decisions are subject to review by a theocracy that itself is governed by a constitution and held accountable, via elections, to the will of the people. While Iranian democracy has been openly mocked in the United States as a sham, the fact is that democratic processes have shaped the Islamic Republic of Iran since its founding. The current Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has spoken of Iran as being a religious democracy, where the peoples participation in the government, expressed through the vehicle of elections, is indicative of the nations health (indeed, Irans 73.3 percent turnout in the presidential election of 2017, in which Hassan Rouhani won re-election, dwarfs the paltry 55.7 percent turnout in the U.S. presidential election of 2016 that put Donald Trump in office).

The JCPOA that was negotiated between Iran and the West was more than simply an expression of political will by the Iranian leadershipit was an expression of the will of the Iranian people, given voice through countless parliamentary debates and legitimized through repeated elections where the issue of Irans nuclear program factored in the balloting. The Iranian people would support its government refusing to bend a knee in the face of American threats; they would not support a government that surrendered their hard-won gains on the nuclear front, which the Iranian people suffered greatly to achieve.

Donald Trump lives in a transactional universe where everything can be dealt away. While this approach might work with New York City real estate and may even have limited application in international affairs, it fails where issues derived from intangible principlessomething that cannot be monetizedare at stake. In Trumps world, one can try to bribe North Korea with the promise of economic largesse or threaten NATOs viability by placing a dollar value on continued membership. While the ulterior motives of North Korea agreeingin principle, if not realityto denuclearize, and NATO to increase its defense spending to 2 percent GDP per member, are probably far more complex than the zero-sum thinking that Trumps transactional diplomacy suggests, the results are the same. But there can be no transactional diplomacy when the other side refuses to name a price, and Iran has made it clear that there is no price it is willing to accept to give up its nuclear program.

The danger here is that Trump doesnt realize he is playing a losing hand. His bluff will be called by Iran (indeed, based upon Rouhanis words, it has been called), but Trump will continue to throw chips into the pot until compelled to either reverse course and rejoin the JCPOA (unlikely), or force the issue and watch the United States enter a war with Iran it will not losebut cannot win.
Deep State Changes Narrative on Russia from Election Meddling to Election Involvement

By Alex Christoforou

August 06, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - With US primary elections coming in November 2018, the neocon-deep state faction of the Trump administration is cleverly scapegoating Russia, while changing the narrative on what was previously called election meddling to now be identified as election involvement.

Not that any of this matters, because we have, to-date, seen no evidence of meddling, collusion, interference, or involvement.

Nevertheless, should Republicans have a poor showing in the midterms Russia will be blamed, and should Democrats have a poor showing in the midterms Russia will be blamed.

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This bizarre and embarrassing White House press briefing had US security and intelligence chiefs pledging to protect American democracy. The deep state talking heads, united in this PR catastrophe, attempted to reassure the American public that they are actively working to protect the upcoming November midterm elections to Congress from foreign interference.

Russia was named as the main threat without any evidence provided.

This article was originally published by "Duran " -

The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House.
Home Search ICH Migrant Kids Stripped, Drugged, Locked Away. So Much For Compassion



By WP Editorial Board August 06, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - WHEN ACCOUNTS of abuse emerged in June from a detention center for migrant minors in Virginia  children as young as 14 stripped naked, shackled, strapped to chairs, their heads encased in bags, left for days or longer in solitary confinement, and in some cases beaten and bruised  it sounded like a scene from the Soviet gulag. This institution, the Shenandoah Valley Juvenile Center, near Staunton, couldnt possibly be in America. And if it was, it had to be an extreme outlier  a place that, while overseen by the Office of Refugee Resettlement at the Department of Health and Human Services, simply could not typify the federal governments handling of children, undocumented or not, who make their way into this country. But abuses alleged at that jail in Virginia turn out to be no worse than those inflicted, on even younger children, at another facility under ORRs purview in Texas. Last Monday, a federal judge, incensed that underage migrants at the Shiloh Residential Treatment Center, south of Houston, had been routinely administered psychotropic drugs without parental consent, denied water as a means of punishment and forbidden from making private phone calls, ordered undocumented minors there transferred elsewhere. Not the Soviet gulag. These things are taking place in America. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter Not just coincidentally, it is President Trumps America. True, documented abuses at both facilities pre-date Mr. Trumps administration; at Shiloh, in particular, there have been harrowing reports of mistreatment for years. Yet the president, who has referred to illegal immigrants as animals and rapists who infest the United States, is a serial, casual dehumanizer of immigrants, particularly Hispanic ones. The signals he sends, amplified by Twitter, are heard everywhere. If unauthorized immigrants are vermin, as the president implies, then its legitimate to treat them as such  to tie them up, lock them away solo, dehydrate and drug them. The most recent findings, concerning Shiloh, run by a private contractor and overseen by ORR, are shocking. Staff members there admitted they had administered psychotropic medication to children without bothering to seek consent from parents, relatives or guardians. Officials said extreme psychiatric symptoms justified medicating the children on an emergency basis  a fine explanation, except that the drugs were administered routinely in the morning and at night. (And sometimes the children were told the drugs were vitamins.) The childrens testimony led U.S. District Judge Dolly Gee to reject the governments arguments, wondering how emergencies could occur with such clocklike precision. Some of the minors confined at Shiloh, which houses 44 children, three-quarters of them immigrants, described abjectly cruel treatment, prompting the judge to order officials at the facility to provide water as needed to those confined there and permit them private phone calls. That a necessity so basic as the provision of water is the subject of a judicial order is a measure of the official depravity that has gripped Shiloh. The tools that normalized Japanese American imprisonment during World War II are being deployed against asylum-seeking immigrants today. HHS officials make a point of sounding compassionate when they describe their concern for the thousands of migrant children under their supervision. Those fine words are belied by actual conditions in real-world facilities for which the department is responsible. This article was originally published by "Washington Post " - The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. ====== Note To ICH Community We are currently searching for a new comment system as we have run out of options on how to prevent the constant bickering and attacks by troll's, whose intention is to paint our website and newsletter as, anti-Semitic, anti-American, pro-Russian fake news. We can no longer afford to invest hours of our time each day, trying to have people behave in a manner befitting those who say they are concerned for others, while offering abuse and hostility to other ICH community members. When we have found such a comment system we will restore the comment function. We ask that you assist us in dissemination of the article published by ICH to your social media accounts and post links to the article from other websites. This would be a better use of out time than trying to prevent abuse of our comment system. Thank you for your continued support. Peace and joy Search Information Clearing House === Click Here To Support Information Clearing House Your support has kept ICH free on the Web since 2002. Click for Spanish , German , Dutch , Danish , French , translation- Note- Translation may take a moment to load.
More Korean hypertension drugs have been identified to contain dangerously high levels of the carcinogen NDMA.

The compound was found in generic valsartan using ingredients manufactured in China.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety said Monday it has now banned 59 branded hypertension drugs containing valsartan manufactured by Korea's Daebong LS, which imported the ingredients from China's Zhuhai Rundu Pharmaceutical. Around 180,000 people in Korea have been prescribed these drugs.
Home Search ICH The Bonfire Of Humanity By Paul Edwards August 06, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - Whats the difference between an alcoholic or a junkie... and the American Deep State War Machine?



Nothing. There isnt any.



Both are deep in the grip of addictions. Neither can exist without its drug of choice. Alcohol or Heroin for the addict; money for the War Machine. Each will do anything for the fix it has to have, even risking system failure and death.



Addicts are autonomous, and those who know best will tell you nothing and no one can save them but themselves. The War Machine, too, is self-directed, free, untethered, answerable to no authority, no governance, but its own.



Just as the addicts out-of-control behavior breaks down and humiliates love, trust and hope in those who care, and tramples their loyalty and support in the mud, so the rabid, fathomless, ungovernable greed of the War Machine has broken, deceived and betrayed the American people, who stand in the same violated, scorned relation to it as a soul-scarred Alanon wife to a mad, lost drunk or a heartbroken, brutalized child to a smack-ravaged parent. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter They will tell you, the wise ones, that the only sane way to treat an addict is with tough love: accepting that his horror is his own and deciding to cease being part of it.



The great difference in the cases is, of course, that while the addict can destroy both himself and those who love him most, the War Machine, if we continue to feed its appalling disease, can and will destroy us all.



Tragically, we American enablers have lacked the courage to confront the addiction of the War Machine. We excuse it as if its abuse of, and contempt for, us and our wellbeing was natural and inevitable. Weve made a co-dependent deal with this voracious succubus, allowing it to bleed us dry financially to sustain its habit, because it claims it loves us, must protect us, and has to have our money.



Lying, deception, denial, are the techniques of addiction. All have been employed to convince us that its disease makes us safe, when in truth everything it does robs and cheats our society, bringing us decay, ruin and misery at home, and anger, hatred, and enmity all around the world.



Love never had anything to do with citizens support of the War Machine, of course, at least not for the sane. It was always fear that was used to enslave us. This should be liberating. Perhaps, if Americans could once see through the toxic cloud of cloddish, vapid, idiotic propaganda, and realize that no nation on earth threatens us as a people, they might turn their justifiable wrath on the mainlining monster that jeopardizes our society and all our lives.



Its the only way to detox the monstrous War Machine. Paul Edwards is a writer and film-maker in Montana. He can be reached at: hgmnude@bresnan.net The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. ====== America Is A Bully. OK. There, I Said It! : U.S. citizens are scared. Awakened from a dream of rampant consumerism and ignorance of world affairs, we find ourselves confused and uncertain. Note To ICH Community We are currently searching for a new comment system as we have run out of options on how to prevent the constant bickering and attacks by troll's, whose intention is to paint our website and newsletter as, anti-Semitic, anti-American, pro-Russian fake news. We can no longer afford to invest hours of our time each day, trying to have people behave in a manner befitting those who say they are concerned for others, while offering abuse and hostility to other ICH community members. When we have found such a comment system we will restore the comment function. We ask that you assist us in dissemination of the article published by ICH to your social media accounts and post links to the article from other websites. This would be a better use of out time than trying to prevent abuse of our comment system. Thank you for your continued support. Peace and joy Search Information Clearing House === Click Here To Support Information Clearing House Your support has kept ICH free on the Web since 2002. Click for Spanish , German , Dutch , Danish , French , translation- Note- Translation may take a moment to load.
Home Search ICH The Satanic Nature of the Atomic Bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki By Edward Curtin Ahab is forever Ahab, man. This whole acts immutably decreed. Twas rehearsed by thee and me billion years before this ocean rolled. Fool! I am the Fates lieutenant; I act under orders.  Herman Melville, Moby Dick The greatest evil is not now done in those sordid dens of crime that Dickens loved to paintBut it is conceived and ordered (moved, seconded, carried, and minuted) in clean, carpeted, warmed, and well-lighted offices, by quiet men with white collars and cut fingernails and smooth-shaven cheeks who do not need to raise their voice.  C. S. Lewis, authors preface, 1962, The Screwtape Letters August 06, 2018 " Information Clearing House " - American history can only accurately be described as the story of demonic possession, however you choose to understand that phrase. Maybe radical evil will suffice. But right from the start the American colonizers were involved in massive killing because they considered themselves divinely blessed and guided, a chosen people whose mission would come to be called manifest destiny. Nothing stood in the way of this divine calling, which involved the need to enslave and kill millions and millions of innocent people that continues down to today. Others have always been expendable since they have stood in the way of the imperial march ordained by the American god. This includes all the wars waged based on lies and false flag operations. It is not a secret, although most Americans, if they are aware of it, prefer to see it as a series of aberrations carried out by bad apples. Or something from the past. Our best writers and prophets have told us the truth: Thoreau, Twain, William James, MLK, Fr. Daniel Berrigan, et al.: we are a nation of killers of the innocent. We are conscienceless. We are brutal. We are in the grip of evil forces. The English writer D. H. Lawrence said it perfectly in 1923, The American soul is hard, isolate, stoic and a killer. It has never yet melted. It still hasnt. When on August 6 and 9, 1945 the United States killed 200-300 thousand innocent Japanese civilians with atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, they did so intentionally. It was an act of sinister state terrorism, unprecedented by the nature of the weapons but not by the slaughter. The American terror bombings of Japanese cities that preceded the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki  led by the infamous Major General Curtis LeMay  were also intentionally aimed at Japanese civilians and killed hundreds of thousands of them. Are You Tired Of The Lies And Non-Stop Propaganda? Get Your FREE Daily Newsletter Is there an American artists painting of Tokyo destroyed by the firebombing to go next to Picassos Guernica, where estimates of the dead range between 800 and 1,600? In Tokyo alone more than 100, 000 Japanese civilians were burnt to death by cluster bombs of napalm. All this killing was intentional. I repeat: Intentional. Is that not radical evil? Demonic? Only five Japanese cities were spared such bombing. The atomic bombings were an intentional holocaust, not to end the war, as the historical record amply demonstrates, but to send a message to the Soviet Union that we could do to them what we did to the residents of Japan. President Truman made certain that the Japanese willingness to surrender in May 1945 was made unacceptable because he and his Secretary-of-State James Byrnes wanted to use the atomic bombs  as quickly as possible to show results in Byrnes words  to send a message to the Soviet Union. So the Good War was ended in the Pacific with the good guys killing hundreds of thousand Japanese civilians to make a point to the bad guys, who have been demonized ever since. Russia phobia is nothing new. Satan always wears the others face. Many Baby Boomers like to say they grew up with the bomb. They are lucky. They grew up. They got be scared. They got to hide under their desks and wax nostalgic about it. Do you remember dog tags? Those 1950s and 1960s? The scary movies? The children of Hiroshima and Nagasaki who died under our bombs on August 6 and 9, 1945 didnt get to grow up. They couldnt hide. They just went under. To be accurate: we put them under. Or they were left to smolder for decades in pain and then die. But that it was necessary to save American lives is the lie. Its always about American lives, as if the owners of the country actually cared about them. But to tender hearts and innocent minds, its a magic incantation. Poor us! Fat Man, Little Boy  how the words echo down the years to the now fat Americans who grew up in the 1950s and who think like little boys and girls about their countrys demonic nature. Innocence  it is wonderful! We are different now. We are great because we are good, thats what Hillary Clinton told us. The Libyans can attest to that. We are exceptional, special. The next election will prove we can defeat Mr. Pumpkin Head and restore America to its core values. Perhaps you think I am cynical. But understanding true evil is not childs play. It seems beyond the grasp of most Americans who need their illusions. Evil is real. There is simply no way to understand the savage nature of American history without seeing its demonic nature. How else can we redeem ourselves at this late date, possessed as we are by delusions of our own God-blessed goodness? But average Americans play at innocence. They excite themselves at the thought that with the next election the nation will be restored to the right course. Of course there never was a right course, unless might makes right, which has always been the way of Americas rulers. Today Trump is viewed by so many as an aberration. He is far from it. Hes straight out of a Twain short story. Hes Vaudeville. Hes Melvilles confidence man. Hes us. Did it ever occur to those who are fixated on him that if those who own and run the country wanted him gone, hed be gone in an instant? He can tweet and tweet idiotically, endlessly send out messages that he will contradict the next day, but as long as he protects the super-rich, accepts Israels control of him, and allows the CIA-military-industrial complex to do its world-wide killing and looting of the treasury, he will be allowed to entertain and excite the public  to get them worked up in a lather in pseudo-debates. And to make this more entertaining, he will be opposed by the sane Democratic opposition, whose intentions are as benign as an assassins smile. Look back as far as you can to past U.S. presidents, the figureheads who act under orders (whose orders?), as did Ahab in his lust to kill the evil great white whale, and what do you see? You see servile killers in the grip of a sinister power. You see hyenas with polished faces. You see pasteboard masks. On the one occasion when one of these presidents dared to follow his conscience and rejected the devils pact that is the presidencys killer-in-chief role, he  JFK  had his brains blown out in public view. An evil empire thrives on shedding blood, and it enforces its will through demonic messages. Resist and there will be blood on the streets, blood on the tracks, blood in your face. Despite this, President Kennedys witness, his turn from cold warrior to an apostle of peace, remains to inspire a ray of hope in these dark days. As recounted by James Douglass in his masterful JFK and the Unspeakable, Kennedy agreed to a meeting in May 1962 with a group of Quakers who had been demonstrating outside the While House for total disarmament. They urged him to move in that direction. Kennedy was sympathetic to their position. He said he wished it were easy to do so from the top down, but that he was being pressured by the Pentagon and others to never do that, although he had given a speech urging a peace race together with the Soviet Union. He told the Quakers it would have to come from below. According to the Quakers, JFK listened intently to their points, and before they left said with a smile, You believe in redemption dont you? Soon Kennedy was shaken to his core by the Cuban missile crisis when the world teetered on the brink of extinction and his insane military and intelligence advisers urged him to wage a nuclear war. Not long after, he took a sharp top-down turn toward peace despite their fierce opposition, a turn so dramatic over the next year that it led to his martyrdom. And he knew it would. He knew it would. So hope is not all lost. There are great souls like JFK to inspire us. Their examples flash here and there. But to even begin to hope to change the future, a confrontation with our demonic past (and present) is first necessary, a descent into the dark truth that is terrifying in its implications. False innocence must be abandoned. Carl Jung, in On the Psychology of the Unconscious, addressed this with the words: It is a frightening thought that man also has a shadow side to him, consisting not just of little weaknesses  and foibles, but of a positively demonic dynamism. The individual seldom knows anything of this; to him, as an individual, it is incredible that he should ever in any circumstances go beyond himself. But let these harmless creatures form a mass, and there emerges a raging monster; and each individual is only one tiny cell in the monsters body, so that for better or worse he must accompany it on its bloody rampages and even assist it to the utmost. Having a dark suspicion of these grim possibilities, man turns a blind eye to the shadow-side of human nature. Blindly he strives against the salutary dogma of original sin, which is yet so prodigiously true. Yes, he even hesitates to admit the conflict of which he is so painfully aware. How can one describe men who would intentionally slaughter so many innocent people? American history is rife with such examples up to the present day. Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, Syria, etc.  the list is very long. Savage wars carried out by men and women who own and run the country, and who try to buy the souls of regular people to join them in their pact with the devil, to acquiesce to their ongoing wicked deeds. Such monstrous evil was never more evident than on August 6 and 9, 1945. Unless we enter into deep contemplation of the evil that was released into the world with those bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, we are lost in a living hell without escape. And we will pay. Nemesis always demands retribution. We have gradually been accepting rule by those for whom the killing of innocents is childs play, and we have been masquerading as innocent and good children for whom the truth is too much to bear. Indeed, the safest road to Hell is the gradual one, Screwtape, the devil, tells his nephew, Wormwood, a devil in training, the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts. Thats the road weve been traveling. The projection of evil onto others works only so long. We must reclaim our shadows and withdraw our projections. Only the fate of the world depends on it. The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Information Clearing House. ====== America Is A Bully. OK. There, I Said It! : U.S. citizens are scared. Awakened from a dream of rampant consumerism and ignorance of world affairs, we find ourselves confused and uncertain. Note To ICH Community We are currently searching for a new comment system as we have run out of options on how to prevent the constant bickering and attacks by troll's, whose intention is to paint our website and newsletter as, anti-Semitic, anti-American, pro-Russian fake news. We can no longer afford to invest hours of our time each day, trying to have people behave in a manner befitting those who say they are concerned for others, while offering abuse and hostility to other ICH community members. When we have found such a comment system we will restore the comment function. We ask that you assist us in dissemination of the article published by ICH to your social media accounts and post links to the article from other websites. This would be a better use of out time than trying to prevent abuse of our comment system. Thank you for your continued support. Peace and joy Search Information Clearing House === Click Here To Support Information Clearing House Your support has kept ICH free on the Web since 2002. Click for Spanish , German , Dutch , Danish , French , translation- Note- Translation may take a moment to load.
Eight Nigerian men arrested in Thailand alongside six others for engaging in online romance scam, are currently being paraded by the Police in the Asian country.

The men reportedly engaged in swindling nearly Bt2 million from Thai women in Ratchaburi, Samut Sakhon, Phitsanulok, Chon Buri and Bangkoks Dusit district.

Deputy Tourist Police chief Maj-General Surachate Hakpan told a press conference on Monday, August 6, that the investigation began after complaints from victims  each of whom wired between Bt300,000 and Bt500,000 to the gang.

He said that the Thai suspects  including at least four Thai women  aided the gang by opening bank accounts and withdrawing cash for the foreign suspects.

Despite the Thai suspects claim of innocence, he said they would face a charge of public fraud and abetting trans-national crimes, which is punishable with up to 10 years imprisonment.
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has terminated the appointment of Department of State Services (DSS) DG Lawal Daura.

This was made known in a series of tweets by Osinbajos Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity) Laolu Akande.

He said:

AgP Yemi Osinbajo has directed the termination of the appointment of the DG of the DSS, Mr. Lawal Musa Daura.

Mr. Daura has been directed to hand over to the most senior officer of the State Security Service until further notice.

Masked operatives of the DSS had blocked the entrance to the National Assembly on Tuesday in what is being reported as an alleged attempt to get pro-Buhari supporters to impeach the Senate President Bukola Saraki.

The officers later granted the lawmakers entry into their offices.

Saraki has dumped the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) last week.

UPDATE :-

Following the sack of the Director General of the Department of the State Security (DSS), the Office of the Ag. President has released a statement on the reasons behind the action.

The Press statement is as follows:

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESS STATEMENT

ACTING PRESIDENT CONDEMNS UNAUTHORIZED TAKEOVER OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has described the unauthorized takeover of the National Assembly complex earlier today as a gross violation of constitutional order, rule of law and all acceptable notions of law and order.

According to him, the unlawful act which was done without the knowledge of the Presidency is condemnable and completely unacceptable.

By this statement, Professor Osinbajo is consequently assuring Nigerians that all persons within the law enforcement apparatus who participated in this travesty will be identified and subjected to appropriate disciplinary action.

Laolu Akande

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity,

Office of the Acting President,

7th August, 2018
Leading telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria, has restated its commitment to the growth and development of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria with the view of deepening the economy.

Speaking on its partnership with SME 100 Nigerias 25 Under 25 Entrepreneurs Awards, Airtel stated that there is a growing recognition of the vital role that SMEs play in economic development, especially youth-run enterprises and it has become very important for all stakeholders to encourage and support youth entrepreneurs that are creating value.

Over half of Nigerias population today are below age 30 and it is imperative to set the youth on the right track; acknowledging their skills, recognizing creativity, hard work, courage, resilience and supporting their ideas in order to build a viable economy, noted the telco

The third edition of the Airtel-sponsored SME 100 Nigerias 25 Under 25 Entrepreneurs Awards held on Saturday, August 4 2018 at Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Out of over 4,500 applicants across several sectors, the jury of the awards platform, selected 25 entrepreneurs that have successfully made socio-economic impact since the establishment of their business.

The award categories spanned across different industries from Information Technology (IT), Media and Communications, Energy, Education, Health care, E-commerce, Fin-tech, Arts and Craft, Agriculture, Fashion, Hospitality, Manufacturing, Sports, Music, amongst others.

According to Executive Director, SME 100 Nigeria, Charles Odii, This award is beyond recognizing innovative young entrepreneurs, it is a call to join a group of topnotch entrepreneurs, mentors and industrialists across a wide range of industry in the SME 100 community.

The 25 Under 25 Entrepreneurs Awards is an annual award by SME 100 to recognize, celebrate and encourage some of Nigerias most innovative entrepreneurs under the age of 25 across various categories.
Earlier today, former Big Brother Naija finalist, Cee-C shared an email she received from someone claiming to be Alexs fan, threatening to bathe her with acid anytime their paths cross. The reason for this deadly message was because of Alex and Tobi whom the crazy fan felt Cee-C was still bitter over.

Now, fellow housemate, Ifu Ennada has weighed in, calling for peace between the two ladies. According to her, they mustnt be best friends but they should at least respect each other and call their fans to order.

The hair beautician also recalled several times she experienced Alex being bullied by Cee-Cs fans in public and the attempts Alex has made to be cordial with Cee-C which she outrightly ignored.

Sharing a collage of the both of them, Ifu Ennada wrote:

Its unfortunate weve gotten to this point where people get acid bath threats.

Sometime in Port Harcourt, about 2 months ago, a CeeC fan verbally and physically attacked Alex. It was so bad that Alex was going to damn the public eyes watching and retaliate, but for intervention from Rico, myself and Naomi  Alexs manager who stopped her.

I spoke with CeeC to speak out to her fans but she didnt. I also spoke to her about the possibility of making peace with Alex. Alex had told me how CeeC ignored her greeting with Rico being a witness, I asked CeeC about this, but she dismissed it.

A lot of times, Big Brother fans have written me, asking me to make peace between these ladies. I hope you all see how I tried to intervene in the past.

NO DRAMA IS WORTH THE UGLINESS THAT COULD ERUPT FROM THIS ENDLESS FAN WARS.

We all dont have to be friends, but we should all have respect for each other.

Respect to call our fans to order; one that sees us value each others lives over drama and trending on Instagram in the name of bullshit.

Countless times Alex and Tobi have gotten death threats from CeeC fans. They all up in their DM. While they choose to ignore these, its not OK.

During Swanky Jerrys party at the club, some people who identified themselves as CeeCs fans confronted Alex physically, spat on the floor several times and told her they dont like her. She called me and spoke about this experience, but I asked her to stay calm.

THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE!

I know CeeC might experience some measure of attack from crazy fans, this acid bath threat being the recent. All these can be curbed if theres peace.

Alex and CeeC please make up already! Let the public know youre cool. Discourage your fans from this war that is gradually brewing.

United, we can make exploits! The other day in our group I wrote about the business possibility we could explore together and the greatness that could be ours.

Let us remember our Big Brother days when we worked as a group and won our Thursday tasks.

We have what it takes to collectively be the most successful Big Brother Housemates ever!

Love is the key.

She also did not fail to add that if anyone threatens someone close to her, shell thoroughly deal with them.
Senator Ben Murray Bruce is urging the US, UK and Canadian embassies to revoke the visa of Senator Godswill Akpabio.

According to the lawmaker, Senator Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom state, and his gang are on a mission to break the laws of the land with backing from security agencies.

The senator says that the embassies should seize Akpabios visa and that of his family members. This will enable him have a long stay in Nigeria, if he love Nigeria that much.

He said this via his twitter handle this morning, noting that the former governor and his gang of DSS are trying to cripple Nigerias democracy. See what he wrote below:
Campaign posters of Reverend King who is currently incarcerated in prison after being sentenced to death by hanging  have began to flood the streets.

The convicted prisoner is said to be running for the presidency in the 2019 election under the platform of the Advanced Peoples Democratic Alliance (APDA).

The General Overseer of Christian Praying Assembly (CPA), was was arraigned on September 26, 2006 on a six-count charge of attempted murder and murder.

He was sentenced to death by hanging in 2007 by Justice Joseph Oyewole at a Lagos High Court tried for murder of a church member, Ann Uzoh.

The judgement was upheld by the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division and finally affirmed by Justice Sylvester Ngwuta of the Supreme Court in 2016.

But according to a Brazil-based church leader, Rt Rev Ernest King, many Nigerians have been going to the prison in Sokoto to mount pressure on Rev King to come and contest and deliver the country.

According to a report by Newsmakers in February (during Rev. Kings birthday celebration), Ernest King said:

This is the man that has solution for Nigeria. He prophesied about Nigerias case 18 years ago, that the country will come to a stage where there will be no solution. He said that he would be somewhere resting and they would bring the issue of Nigeria to him for him to solve for them.

That was how they went to the prison about two months ago pleading that he should come and take over Nigeria. He had prophesied this 18 years ago.

If Rev King should be allowed to handle Nigeria under 5 years, Nigeria will be one of the best countries in the world.

He added:

This is the man that has solution to every problem on Earth, but Nigerians dont know what God gave them. The wicked and occult people want to kill him, but its impossible. As he told them in the Court on that day, theres no rope on Earth that can enter Rev Kings head.
There are unconfirmed reports that the Senate minority leader, senator Godswill Akpabio has resigned his position.

The senator who was once an Akwa Ibom state governor has been the man of the rave, after news broke that he has dumped his party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP for the ruling party.

The senator, who recently visited the president, Muhammadu Buhari in London and was also at the home of the National leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Bola Tinubu yesterday has been accused of trying to orchestrate a coup that would oust the Senate president, Bukola Saraki out of office.

The official handle of the National Assembly, took to twitter this morning to announce that Senator Akpabio has allegedly resigned his position as Senate minority leader.

They wrote:

https://twitter.com/nassnigeria/status/1026759384012136450?s=19

We would bring you more details as story develops
President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosas son Andile accepted his woman, Bridget Birungi, foster daughter of former Minister of Uganda, Amama Mbabazi, at their traditional marriage ceremony known as kuhingira in Uganda on Saturday.

According to The Sowetan, upon receiving his daughter-in-law, President Ramaphosa challenged her to hold tight to her husband.

He said: Many girls in South Africa are envious of you, even on social media they were saying why did he go so far when we are here. They dont know that you fell in love in China. Hold onto your man and never let him go.

The president said weddings are a consolidation of relationships not only between families but also people and communities.

In this case, we believe it is a consolidation of the relationship between South Africa and Uganda, and this is going to cement us even more.

See photos below:
U.S. White House national security adviser John Bolton claimed on Fox News on Sunday that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un told South Korean President Moon Jae-in he would complete denuclearization "within a year" during their April 27 summit. "Kim Jong-un promised South Korean President Moon Jae-in at Panmunjom on April 27 that he would do it and that he would do it within a year," Bolton said. He added that the comment definitely "comes from Kim Jong-un."

Bolton is an eccentric official and was North Korea's most vocal critic when he became involved in diplomacy leading up to U.S. President Donald Trump's summit with Kim, only to turn into a vocal defender of Trump's lackluster achievements at the event. Who knows which side of his persona was coming to the fore in the interview? If Kim pledged to scrap his nuclear weapons within a year and told Moon so, it would be very welcome indeed. But the process of how this putative revelation became public and the fact that it came from the White House at this point in time is rather troubling.

In North Korea, Kim's word is more important than any law or decree. If Kim really intends to do this, there should have been some progress by now, three months after the inter-Korean summit. But the only thing the North has shown the world is to shut down a useless nuclear test site and a missile test facility. The U.S. gave Kim a lot of gifts, such as suspending joint military drills with South Korea, but the North gave it nothing in return in follow-up talks. At this point, the issue of North Koreas denuclearization is close to being thrown out of the window.

What is even stranger is that the South Korean government, which has been eagerly touting the results of the inter-Korean summit, did not announce Kim's pledge right away. Is Bolton making it up? Or did President Moon Jae-in misquote Kim when he conveyed his comments to the White House?

Cheong Wa Dae has declined to respond to Bolton's comments, claiming that it does not know exactly what words were exchanged between Kim and Moon during their summit. It is common for governments not to reveal the contents of conversations between their leaders, but now that the cat is potentially out of the bag, it seems strange that the presidential office will not confirm it. The issue is directly related to the safety and welfare of South Korean citizens, so the government must reveal exactly what Kim said.

If Seoul and Washington rushed to negotiate with Pyongyang without clearly understanding each other, they need to set things straight now. A good starting point would be to clarify exactly what Kim said.


Vanguard

Following the drama ongoing at the two chambers of the National Assembly where men of the Department of State Security Services, DSS, Monday morning, denied some Senators and House of Assembly members access into their chambers, reports have claimed the DSS men have however granted access to some All Progressives Congress, APC, lawmakers.

The Nation

A partnership of groups of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Sokoto State has insisted that defecting Governor Aminu Tambuwal should account for the bailout funds received from the federal government.

Thisday

The clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Sani Omolori, was Tuesday morning prevented from entering the National Assembly premises by operatives of the Department of State Services.

Guardian

Former Akwa Ibom State governor Senator Godswill Akpabio has resigned as Nigerian senates minority leader.

Tony John, Port Harcourt Former Commandant, Nigerian Army School of Infantry (NASI), Jaji, Kaduna State, Maj.-Gen. Jamil Sarham, has been appointed as the new General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, Rivers State Gen.

Dailytimes

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday said that it was not aware of Senator Godwin Akpabios defection plan to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Tribune

Men of the Department of State Services (DSS) have occupied entrances to the National Assembly in the early hours of today (Tuesday).

Leadership

Kano State governor, Abdullahi Ganduje yesterday said his former

Kano State governor, Abdullahi Ganduje yesterday said his former deputy, Prof. Hafiz Abubakar, resigned from his position for fear of being impeached.


Reno Omokri is currently on social media crying out to news men to stop the National chairman of the ruling party and its senators from illegally impeach Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

The author claims that Oshiomhole is forcing APC senators to sign impeachment papers against the senate president.

According to the Omokri, he was informed by the Deputy chairman of the senate information committee that Adams Oshiomhole is literally shouting at the remaining APC senators to sign impeachment papers against Bukola Saraki.

He also revealed that the APC senators are currently at the Sheraton hotel, Abuja, urging newsmen to go there in order to frustrate president Muhammadu Buharis dictatorship.

The former presidential aide, who is tweeting from overseas, also revealed that the APC chairman and its senators are on five buses headed to the National Assembly to impeach Saraki.

See tweets

They are at Sheraton Abuja forcefully collecting signatures. One particular APC Senator from the Northwest, who is very poetic, actually wants to defect, but he cant defect because they gave him money and unknown to him they filmed it. Senators who are collecting money, beware!  Reno Omokri (@renoomokri) August 7, 2018


Members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP have expressed their dissatisfaction at the current situation of the National Assembly.

This morning, the internet went agog after news broke that the National Assembly was under siege by masked DSS officers.

The reports from some senators corroborated the fact that lawmakers were prevented from entering their offices.

The Senate President, Bukola Saraki had sent the senate on recess, before as he defected to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

There have been pleas from the presidency that

Dino Melaye

Democracy under attack. Nigerians must defend democracy. We will not allow antidemocratic forces to prevail.  Senator Dino Melaye. (SDM) (@dino_melaye) August 7, 2018

Reno Omokri

To those attempting to overthrow democracy at the National Assembly, know we are taking down your names and photos. We are talking with the British and American ambassadors. Everyone involved in this anti democratic assault can kiss their US and UK visas goodbye! @DanielJHannan  Reno Omokri (@renoomokri) August 7, 2018

Abubakar Atiku

We warned that if what occurred in Benue last week was not checked on time, it would escalate to the federal level. Today we are seeing that warning in play. https://t.co/Lk9qRvTNGV  Atiku Abubakar (@atiku) August 7, 2018

Rabiu Ibrahim

The assault on our democracy is on-going while the @NGRPresident @MBuhari is on holiday only to remote control a coup from abroad. One wonders how the pretense (every time state forces are used illegally to undermine Nigerias democracy) has become an open secret of tyranny.  Sen. Rafiu Ibrahim (@rafiuibrahim) August 7, 2018

Seriake Dickson
Anita Okoye, wife of defunct PSquares Paul Okoye bit more than she could chew when she attempted to join the private page of sex therapist Jaaruma.

Jaaruma has put the wife of Nigerias pop act Paul Okoye on blast for secretly seeking her help by trying to join her VIP page on instagram.

Jaaruma who is known for being blunt on her page shared the screenshot of Anita Okoye requesting to join the VIP page of the sex therapist where details and videos of clients using their products are reportedly posted.

According to Jaaruma, Anita follows the public page with a private account not opened in her real name, and after been thrilled by her products, seeks to join the VIP page where everything is costly but confidential.

If you cant celebrate me in public dont come to me in private the northerner said as she openly dragged the celebrity wife.


As reactions continue to trail the siege on the National Assembly by some men of the Department of State Services, DSS, governor Ayodele Fayose says he had warned everyone.

According to the out-going governor of Ekiti state, he warned those who brought president Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 and continued to warn them after Buhari was elected

Fayose, described the siege on n Nass as a shameful display of tyranny and said the only resort now is to God, to save our democracy from these tyrants. 

The governor made this call via his twitter handle this morning. He wrote)

Shameful display of tyranny at the NASS. At this point, we can only pray to God to save democracy in our country from the hands of these tyrants.

But I warned! I warned those who brought Buhari in 2015 and I kept warning even after he was elected. #SaveOurDemocracy  Peter Ayodele Fayose (@GovAyoFayose) August 7, 2018

Meanwhile, there were rumours that Fayose was perfecting moves to decamp to the ruling party after a picture of the governor, allegedly in Bola Tinubus house surface.

The governor not only debunked the rumours but stated that being linked with any leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC is tantamount to being linked with the robbers that hijacked Ekiti mandate.
In Nigeria, lots of banks have been strengthened through the influence of the central monetary system widely regarded as the Central Bank of Nigeria. In this regard, the CBN has continually formulated banking policies aimed at saving the commercial banks from banking difficulties such as insolvency. In the event of banking difficulties, the CBN may grant loans to certain banks in order to stabilize their operations and prevent them from likely liquidation. ( Top 10 Best Banks in Nigeria 2018 {Latest Ranking List} ). In reality, banks are not only meant for safeguarding peoples valuables but also established as solid foundations on which an operative economic system can be built. For the economy of any country to be stable, existing banks must be equipped with enormous funds from which people may borrow in order to settle financial obligations.

As to the focal point of this post, were pleased to provide you with the names of Nigerias leading banks. Meanwhile, this post comes in form of a ranking that comprises the Top 10 Nigerian Banks. Also noteworthy, these banks are ranked in accordance with their total assets and it is supposed that each of them provides its customers with reliable and stable banking services.

If youre keen on finding out the leading banks within Nigerias banking sector, we believe this post is perfectly made for you. So, read on as we bring you the names of these top banks starting from the first to the penultimate bank.

List of The Top 10 Best Banks in Nigeria 2018 Top {Latest Ranking}

1. Guaranty Trust Bank Plc {GTBank}

Guaranty Trust Bank is easily shortened to GTBank and precisely, it claims the greatest spot on this list. Since it was set up in 1990, GTBank has constantly broadened its customer base and presently, it maintains an unrivaled feat as the best Nigerian bank. Having acquired assets estimated at 11.77trillion altogether, GTBank buttresses its banking services by operating across all 36 Nigerian States through its subsidiaries. Based on reports, GTBank currently has a massive staff of 10,000 members.

2. First Bank Plc {FBN}

Other than its notability as one of Nigerias leading banks, First Bank happens to be first banking institution to be established in Nigeria. Established in 1894, First Bank previously adopted the name Bank of West Africa. Meanwhile, the banking institution phased out the name in 1979 and replaced it with First Bank of Nigeria Plc.

For innumerable years, First Bank has remained an active banking institution spanning its banking operations across and beyond the borders of Nigeria. And quite impressively, the bank now has subsidiaries in the United Kingdom and across several West African countries including Senegal, Ghana, Sierra Leone and the Gambia. Just a little behind GTBank, First Bank happens to be the second biggest Nigerian bank with its total assets estimated to be worth 21.3 billion.
A visa is a legal permission usually in form of a stamp placed in the international passport of a person who wishes to leave their country of origin to a country where they are not citizens of. There are many reasons while a person may seek for US visa application in Nigeria in an attempt to move to the United States of America. The reason why a person wants to move to America determines the kind of visa such a person can acquire for. America commonly referred to as the Home of the brave and land of the free is also home to the phenomenon as the American dream. It is undoubtedly true that many opportunities abound in the United States; the opportunities are so much attractive that many people seek to travel to the country both by legal and illegal means. Anyone who is not a citizen of the united states is required to legally obtain a visa if they will be permitted to enter the country through official means.

US VISA APPLICATION IN NIGERIA  STEP BY STEP GUIDE

The United States of America is customarily a settlers society; the majority of the current citizen of America with the exception of the Native Americans can trace their origins to one-time immigrants along the course of history. The largest source of population growth in the United States has always been through immigration. Till today, America remains a pretty diverse nation with various people representing various races and nationalities. Within 2010 to 2016 the average number of immigrants to the united states averages a little over one million people, which continues to increase yearly, however it must be noted that the procedure for immigrating to the United States of America has been made much stricter since the events of the infamous terrorist attacks of 9/11.

TYPES OF UNITED STATES VISA

As earlier stated there are different types of visa available to choose from, this is mainly dependent on who is applying for a visa and why He is doing so. The many kinds of visa in the United States can be classified into two main groups

Non-Immigrant Visa

And Immigrant Visa

Non-Immigration visas or temporary visas are visas issues to people who have sort timed interest or engagement in the united states, this kind of issue doesnt allow the carrier to stay indefinitely in the United States. Visas that people with this type of intention can receive include:

TOURIST OR VISITOR VISAS

This visa allows visitors to the US to conduct business or enjoy leisure for a specific amount of time, this visa does not allow for the carrier to get a local job.
Zurich Insurance has announced that Saad Mered, currently the chief claims officer for Zurich Insurance Group, will be replacing David Levinson as CEO and chief agent of Zurich Canada effective October 01. He will be reporting directly to Kathleen Savio, Zurichs North American CEO, who said in a press release that Mereds skillset will support the development of the insurance companys Canadian operations.

Saads knowledge of Zurich and our people, his proven ability to foster valuable relationships with customers and brokers, and his drive for innovation and execution will continue to position our important Canadian business to deliver top-tier performance, said Savio. I am pleased to welcome Saad to the North America senior team.
District works to preserve skills of city's last remaining blacksmiths

From:Shine | 2018-08-07 00:29

Fang Ruihua, a renowned blacksmith, sharpens a newly produced iron tool in his workshopin Jinhui Town of Fengxian.

Fengxian District government plans to help preserve the traditional skills of its senior blacksmiths who can hardly find apprentice due to tiny profit from the gloomy handicraft business.

The blacksmiths, being over 50 years old, in the citys outskirt towns in Fengxian are dubbed the last blacksmiths of Shanghai.

The district's intangible cultural heritage office will organize experts to evaluate whether the traditional blacksmithing skill in Fengxian can be listed and under protection status, the district government said yesterday (Monday).

Once listed as an "intangible cultural heritage" skill, those blacksmiths, or cultural heritage inheritors can receive subsidies to open training centers to better protect and promote the skills.

"Even if the blacksmithing, which was a common business to make a living, could not be listed, the authority will still help to preserve the traditional skill and culture," said an official with the office.

The traditional blacksmithing work involves numerous times of hammering and tempering which makes the iron products strong but flexible.

A handmade iron kitchen knife and cooking pot were once a necessities to every Chinese household several decades ago, but the traditional products were later replaced by mass produced stainless steel kitchen tools from assembly lines.

The industry remained popular in agricultural towns like those in Fengxian as farmers need durable and efficient iron tools, but the profit was too tiny to woo the younger generation to learn the arduous skill.

"Every candidate would firstly ask how much they can earn per month and leave after being told the business can barely make the ends meet nowadays," said Fang Ruihua, a renowned blacksmith in Tairi Community of Jinhui Town in Fengxian.

His once popular blacksmith workshop will be demolished soon under the township governments ongoing revamping campaign.

Ti Gong

Fang Ruihua, a renowned blacksmith, makes an iron tool in his workshop in Jinhui Town of Fengxian.

Ti Gong

The once popular blacksmith workshop of Fang Ruihuain Jinhui Town of Fengxian will be demolished soon under the township governments ongoing revamping campaign.

As part of the protective measures, the neighborhood committee has promised to find a new site to for him continue his business, but Fang concerns more about how to pass on his traditional skills.

The 56-year-old craftsman said he had become the youngest blacksmith in the town because no younger generation was willing to learn the skill.

Fang inherited the skills from his father and grandfather. He began swinging the hammer when he was 12 years ago and open the workshop two decades ago.

His workshop covering about 60-square-meters once produced hoes, sickles and other agricultural tools for almost every household, but people seldom use these tools nowadays under the rapid urbanization even in the rural towns.

Most of his customers today come to ask for a handmade kitchen knife. Some enthusiasts drive afar from downtown or northern districts for Fangs reputation.

When make a kitchen knife, Fang heat an iron brick in a stove with temperature being over 1,000 degrees Celsius until the metal becomes soft enough to be shaped. Fang now uses an electric air hammer to replace the hand tools to save effort.

With the help the automatic hammer, he can make about 10 knives a day. Each was sold at about 50 yuan (US$7.3).

A customer surnamed Xu from northern Baoshan District said he bought a kitchen knife from Fangs father two decades ago and it is as sharp as a new one. He came to purchase another knife for his son who will get married soon.

Ti Gong

The iron kitchen knives made by Fang Ruihua, a renowned blacksmith in Jinhui Town of Fengxian.

Ti Gong

Fang Ruihuanow uses an electric air hammer to replace the hand tools to save effort.

Fang said he had been accustomed to the scorching temperature and hardships in the workshop, but few young people are willing to follow this path. His arms are covered with scars burnt by sparks.

The township government and neighborhood committee will help the senior blacksmith to find a suitable apprentice, according to the Fengxian government.

The recruitment notice will be stuck on the notice board across the town as well as publicized through the official Wechat account of the town and district governments.

The Huqiao neighborhood committee of Zhelin Town, for instance, which is famous for the rolling lamp, a listed city-level cultural heritage dating back to over 700 years ago, has launched a campaign to help Zhu Atao, another senior blacksmith in Fengxian to find a apprentice.

His wishes have been widely publicized through the "Dream Market," which was initiated in 2016 by the Fengxian government, to encourage individuals, social organizations and enterprises to offer their help and support.

The 71-year-old Zhu made qualification quite simple: anyone who can bear hardships and be interested to blacksmithing, after his two sons have refused to take over the family business.
I wouldnt say its over, he said. I think what we can see is the light at the end of the tunnel, we can see the green shoots coming through now. What we need to do is be disciplined and remain disciplined in the coming period. What I want us to do in Canada is very much drive our business to be entirely customer-centric and to drive the customer service within that business, so we need to remain disciplined to return the business to profitability because an unprofitable business is no good to our customers, or our shareholders for that matter.

Holmes singled out auto insurance regulations in Ontario and Alberta as a hurdle that continues to affect the companys bottom line and its customers.

I dont think the regulatory environment in Canada services the customer very well, he said, pointing to a lack of innovation and competition in the market as contributors to the high cost of motor insurance. The need for reform is very pressing because without that reform, the only other thing that can take place is that rates will continue to harden.

Aviva Canada has been working with governments and regulators to get a reform process underway, and to put the consumer at the centre of it to ensure that the company is providing a service they want at a price they can afford, according to the president and CEO,

Weather also took a toll on the company in the first six months of 2018 as severe weather claims in the second quarter increased by 13.5%, though the companys reinsurance program will help out with future costs for the rest of the year.

Any future cat events in Canada in 2018 that are above $17 million are fully reinsured from the ground up, explained Holmes. That gives us confidence in the second half of the year that the impact of cats will not be as pronounced on our results.

To increase operating profit and combined operating ratio, Aviva Canada will focus on diversification, both geographically and by expanding its range of product offerings.

Were looking to grow our SME, and our global corporate and specialty businesses to better balance out the impact of the single product lines, said Holmes, adding that digitization is also on the near-term horizon as a way of reducing costs. Were looking to digitize all channels, particularly our broker channel, again to make it more efficient to do business with Aviva.

Aviva leads the market in terms of digital capability globally, and a lot of what were doing is just launching that capability in Canada, which we think will return us to profitability much quicker than we otherwise would.

With a plan in place, Holmess outlook for the future is optimistic.

We have seen an underlying performance improvement across our business in Canada in the first half of 2018 and compared to the second half of 2017, said Holmes. Were very confident of returning to profitability in the second half of the year.

Related stories:

Archway Insurance acquires Atlantic Canada broker

Aviva announces $10 million competition for start-ups in Canada
In the individual risk business, where we can see exactly the risks, we will in principle no longer insure new coal-fired power plants or mines in industrialised countries, said Wenning.

According to a report by German news agency dpa, in principle means there will be case-by-case considerations to allow for exemptions. As for shares and bonds, Munich Re will stop investing in firms that generate more than 30% of their revenues from coal business.

For campaigners though, zero support for coal is the only way to go.

After massive public pressure and huge payouts for climate disasters, Munich Re has done the right thing in beginning to dump coal, said Avaaz campaign director Bert Wander in a statement sent to Insurance Business. Its a good start, but Munich Re will still invest in and insure some coal projects, and the only way to avoid climate catastrophe is to abandon coal completely.

An Avaaz campaign calling on Munich Re to stop insuring coal and tar sands has been signed by more than 850,000 people.

Following suit

In June, fellow German reinsurer Hannover Re said it was divesting from companies that have over 25% of annual revenues coming from coal. It will, however, continue to reinsure coal power plants for now.

As for Swiss Re, it has started to implement a group-wide policy that stops it from providing coverage to both existing and new coal mines and power plants owned by businesses with more than 30% coal exposure. The policy matches the reinsurers existing practice  now more than two years old  when it comes to investments.

Last month energy campaigner Regine Richter, of environmental organisation Urgewald, stated: As the first insurer to warn against the dangers of climate change, Munich Re is now lagging massively behind its peers.

The fact that direct competitors such as Swiss Re and, to a certain extent, Hannover Re are now leading the way on coal should be an incentive for Munich Re to follow suit.

Urgewald supports the Unfriend Coal campaign, which has been pressuring insurance companies to get out of the coal business and instead back the transition to clean energy.

Related stories:

Swiss Re implements group-wide coal policy

Coal update: Hannover Re adopts exclusion policy
gavel on wooden background tax

Broadly speaking, the court confirmed the existing understanding of the law as it relates to UK withholding tax (UKWHT) on interest payments. Had the court done otherwise, the resulting upheaval could have led to UK taxpayers needing to re-examine a huge raft of debt arrangements.

But while being suitably grateful to Lady Justice Arden, who gave the leading judgment on June 21, some taxpayers and their advisers may feel that an opportunity has been missed to simplify and streamline the law in this area. Even worse, Ardmore may actually make life more complex.

Facts of the case

Ardmore, a UK-based, family-owned construction company borrowed money from trusts in Gibraltar. Ardmore did not deduct UKWHT from interest payments to the Gibraltan lenders.

In keeping with its long-standing position in such cases, HMRC determined that the interest payments had a UK source and so were subject to UKWHT. HMRCs view was that, because Ardmore was a UK company, the source of the interest was the UK. As Ardmore had not accounted for the UK tax due, HMRC assessed Ardmore for that tax.

Ardmore and its advisers argued that, because the lenders were in Gibraltar, the debt arrangements were governed by Gibraltan law, and the loan documents included a Gibraltan jurisdiction clause, Gibraltar was the source of the interest and not the UK (and so no UKWHT was due). In short, Ardmore effectively thought it could justify this position by saying that the loan, rather than the debtor (and the funds from which the debtor serviced the interest), was the source of the interest.

The UK Court of Appeal upheld the previous lower tier tribunal decisions. Lady Justice Arden dismissed the idea that the origination of the loan from Gibraltar meant that the interest also originated there.

She said: The immediate search is for the source of the interest rather than a search indirectly for the source of the loan. The funds paid over as interest derived from funds generated in the UK.

The activity of lending became passive once the loan was made, whereas the business of Ardmore was actively conducted to produce those funds.

She added: Furthermore, relative to the links with the UK, the links with Gibraltar were of an insubstantial kind: there was no evidence that they were backed up by any kind of other activity within Gibraltar, nor was it explained why it was necessary for the trusts to form companies in the British Virgin Islands or what commercial purpose those companies served.

Gibraltan law, she went on, would, under the terms of the loan, govern the arrangement only in the event of a default by the borrower, and this had not happened.

However, the UK Court of Appeal did not endorse the hitherto-existing approach of HMRC, which is that a UK-resident debtor must, generally, deduct UKWHT from interest payments to overseas lenders (subject to the availability of any relief or exemption). Cases may be different, and HMRC should look at all the relevant factors in each case and weigh them accordingly. For instance, it may not be appropriate for HMRC simply to look to debtor residence where there is an active lender and a passive borrower.

The correct approach, she added, was not merely multifactorial, but should also be acutely fact-sensitive.

HMRC already considers a number of factors in such cases, but their position has for some time been that one of the most important factors is the residence of the debtor and the location of their assets. Other factors (upon which HMRC tends to place less weight) include the residence of any guarantor, the location of any security for the debt, the competent jurisdiction for any legal action and the relevant law of contract, and the method of payment of interest. Following Ardmore it may be prudent to reconsider how appropriate any such hierarchy is in light of the facts.

A practical and substantive approach should be taken to weighing the factors in each case. As Lady Justice Arden said, the key test was whether a practical person would regard the source [of the interest] as in  [the UK] or elsewhere.

All factors ought to be considered and each has some relevance. That may sound reasonable, but  in contrast to the existing HMRC priority given to a debtors residence and location of their assets  advisers and HMRC must now weigh them all.

An opportunity to simplify the rules in this area has been missed and the court declined to set out an objective test of universal application. If anything, the Ardmore judgment has made the job of hunting for a UK source more complex. However, the courts approach of having regard to the facts in hand is reasonable  debt arrangements are increasingly complicated and very often more complicated than Ardmores arrangements  as applying a one-size-fits-all approach would carry its own significant challenges. The courts action in broadly upholding the status quo, then, deserves two cheers.

This article was prepared by Oliver Walker, a tax partner, and Stuart Pibworth, a tax associate, of Weil, Gotshal and Manges (London).

The material on this site is for financial institutions, professional investors and their professional advisers. It is for information only. Please read our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy before using the site. All material subject to strictly enforced copyright laws.  2021 Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC. For help please see our FAQ.

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AUSTIN, Texas - August 7, 2018 (Investorideas.com Newswire) The Academy of Cannabis Science announces its entrance into the Austinarea, but who are they? What are they doing in Texas and why are they trying to educate the people of Texas in the Medicinal Cannabis field? Is there a medical cannabis market in Texas? Can cannabis one day be legal in the state of Texas? This and many other answers and/or topics is what the Academy of Cannabis Science wishes to educate the people of Texas about.

North Austin Academy of Cannabis Science is offering Medical Cannabis Courses to address all the questions, opportunities and needs of this new medical industry.

In addition to the medical benefits cannabis can provide, the economic upside for Texas is HUGE.

The average consumption of cannabis by a patient in the U.S. costs $365 per month or $4,380 per year (Headset, Inc.). The population of Texas is somewhere in the neighborhood of 29 million people. If only 1 out of 10 people takes advantage of the proposed medical program, and uses medical cannabis, the numbers add up: $4,380 x 2,900,000 people = $12,702,000,000 per year. Obviously, for this to happen, the industry will have to be fully operational.

In order for the state of Texas to fulfill this demand, it will have to produce a minimum of 3,970,000 pounds a year to provide 1.3 pounds per patient (7.2 grams of oil).

A 10,000 square foot space produces about 1,500 pounds per year, on the first year (and we're simplifying this greatly). So, Texas could need almost 2,600 of these 10,000 square foot cultivation facilities to meet the demands/needs of the patients.

Texas will also need about 8,450 dispensaries and at least 220,000 employees, not including the indirect jobs created from cultivation, transportation, lab, real estate, etc.

North Austin Academy of Cannabis Science is offering Medical Cannabis Courses to address all the questions, opportunities and needs of this new medical industry.

Classes are held Saturdays only. The first of which will begin Saturday, October 13th - November 10th, 2018.

For more information please call us at 512-485-4520 | Espanol at 214-733-0868

visit us at:

www.northaustinacademyofcannabisscience.com or by email at ej@naustinacs.com

Media Contact:

Eva Jackson at 512-485-4520

Espanol at 214-733-0868

199580@email4pr.com

SOURCE: North Austin Academy of Cannabis Science

Related Links https://www.northaustinacademyofcannabisscience.com

More Info:

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This collection features the arguments in favor of and against the renaming of Catt Hall on Iowa State's campus, which was named in 
Mobile phone chargers are almost essential in the modern world. However, device compatibility is a problem that customers have to often deal with. The European Union, back in 2009 tried to solve this by urging companies to adopt micro USB as the standard for mobile chargers.

But since Apple decided to break away from the pact in 2012 by adopting the Lightning port on its entire device lineup, the model envisioned by the EU didnt quite work. It is now being learned that the EU is looking to bring the issue back to the table again, and possibly even making the common charger proposal a law, thereby forcing companies to agree on a single-standard port.

Given the unsatisfactory progress with this voluntary approach, the Commission will shortly launch an impact assessment study to evaluate costs and benefits of different other options, the EU Competition Chief Margrethe Vestager said in a statement last week.

The EU claims that about 51,000 tons of electronic waste are generated from mobile phone chargers every year, which is causing significant environmental damage. Keeping this in mind, its understandable as to why the EU wants to enforce a single-standard law.

While it makes sense to have all manufacturers under a single-standard agreement, it doesnt sound feasible as an immediate solution. However, if the companies come to an agreement with the EU, theres no reason why this cant work.

The EU is known to be strict on tech companies, so there are going to be a few jitters spreading among mobile manufacturers. Back in 2016, the EU proposed a fine of $14.5 billion on Apple over allegations of receiving illegal state aid from Ireland. More recently, Google was fined $5 billion for violating EUs antitrust laws with its illegal Android practices.

[Via Reuters
A WSJ article earlier today talked about Facebook potentially shoring up financial data from banks by asking them to share detailed financial information about their customers, including card transactions and checking-account balances. The company has now responded to that article, while categorically rejecting some of the allegations.

Speaking to TechCrunch, Facebooks Corporate Communications Director, Elisabeth Diana, mentioned that the company is in no way shoring up data to use in ads or any other marketing services. She clarified that the company merely wants to offer features like fraud alerts and to allow customers to check their bank account balance via Messenger.

Facebooks statement:

A recent Wall Street Journal story implies incorrectly that we are actively asking financial services companies for financial transaction data  this is not true. Like many online companies with commerce businesses, we partner with banks and credit card companies to offer services like customer chat or account management. Account linking enables people to receive real-time updates in Facebook Messenger where people can keep track of their transaction data like account balances, receipts, and shipping updates. The idea is that messaging with a bank can be better than waiting on hold over the phone  and its completely opt-in. Were not using this information beyond enabling these types of experiences  not for advertising or anything else. A critical part of these partnerships is keeping peoples information safe and secure. The companys statement pretty much clears its stance on the matter. Diana also took the occasion to mention that bank account linking with Messenger is currently live in the United States via American Express and in Singapore with PayPal and Citi account holders.

The question of privacy doesnt escape Facebook too often, and with good reason. Hence, it is understandable that the company holds a rigorous approach towards user privacy.

Do you like the idea of having your bank account details linked with Messenger?

[Via TechCrunch
The number of pro-business groups, including the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce, opposing Texas Attorney General Ken Paxtons lawsuit seeking a court order ending the Deferred Act for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, continues to increase.

The Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, the Texas Restaurant Association and eight other business advocacy organizations and companies filed federal court papers late Wednesday officially joining 13 other pro-business groups and corporations who filed a brief 10 days ago asking a judge to reject Paxtons request to have DACA declared illegal.

The coalition, which includes a dozen chambers of commerce from Irving/Los Colinas to San Antonio and a half-dozen large Texas-based companies, argue that a federal court order dismantling the DACA program will lead to tens-of-thousands of Texas workers identified as so-called Dreamers being deported and billions of dollars deleted from the states economy.

Paxton and six other states sued the Trump Administration demanding that DACA be declared illegal. In his lawsuit, Paxton said that the state is open to a compromise that allows those with a valid DACA permit to stay but that no new DACA permits be issued.

Multiple lawyers with some members of the pro-business consortium told The Texas Lawbook this week that Paxtons compromise is a farce because the state attorney general knows that permits for Dreamers expire regularly. If those workers loose the legal protections provided under DACA, they will be subject to immediate deportation.

The new organizations joining the legal fray supporting DACA include American Business Immigration Coalition, Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce, the National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders, San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, Texas Opportunity Roundtable, Texas Restaurant Association and VisitDallas, which was formerly the Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau.

In addition, two Texas businesses  Ascension Texas, which is the largest non-profit health center in the U.S, and Health Management Systems Holdings (HMS)  signed the legal petition opposing Paxtons lawsuit.

In the legal brief, the pro-business groups say that the court-ordered end of DACA will have immediate, irreparable injury to Texas businesses and cost the states economy an estimated $6 billion, tens of thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenues.

The federal judge hearing the case, Andrew Hanen of Brownsville, is scheduled to hold a hearing on the matter in Houston on Aug. 8.

To view this story in its original form, please visit TexasLawbook.net.

Presented by, Dallas Business Journal, August 2, 2018
FDA announces new blacklistings

From:Shine | 2018-08-07 00:29

Nineteen people were recently blacklisted for selling fake medical, beauty and health products and will be banned from the industry for 10 years, the citys food and drug watchdog said yesterday.

In one such case, a man was sentenced to five years in prison and fined 500,000 yuan (US$73,066) by Xuhui Peoples Court for selling 18 types of fake drugs, according to the Shanghai Food and Drug Administration.

The man, surnamed Cai, illegally purchased a large number of medical products from Taiwan and then sold them locally without approval. When police busted Cais operation, he was caught with 20 different kinds of drugs, 18 of which were fake, according to authorities. Cais sales were calculated at 500,000 yuan.

Cai was jailed five years, and two of his employees were sentenced to four years and 39 months in prison respectively, with fines. The fakes drug were confiscated.
The most highlighted issue on the front pages of major Nepali and English broadsheet dailies published form Kathmandu on Tuesday is the murder of a boy after his abduction and subsequent deaths of two suspects in a police encounter in Bhaktapur district of Kathmandu Valley on Monday. Other political issues including the debate between ruling and opposition parties in Parliament over the rejection of Acting Chief Justice Deepak Raj Joshees nomination for the position of Chief Justice, and preparations of the Constitutional Council to recommend the new Chief Justice have also been fairly prioritised. There are also reports of floods and landslides triggered by incessant rainfalls in various parts of the country.

Few other political, sociocultural and economic issues have also been featured on the front pages of newspapers published form the capital.

Important

Why could not the kidnapped kid be saved?

Whereas almost all newspapers have published reports about the murder of 11-year-old Nishan Khadka and deaths of two suspects in a consequent police encounter, lead stories in Kantipur and Naya Patrika question the modus operandi of police to deal with the case. They say police should have focused on saving the child from the abduction instead of killing the abductors in the encounter.

Kantipur report blames the lack of coordination between police units of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur districts in investigating into the incident resulted in the failure to save the boy.

Likewise, Naya Patrika comments that the hurry to kill the abductors in the encounter also destroyed various elements of the evidence that could be helpful in investigating the crime.

Oli, Dahal discuss forming lower committees

Two chairperson of Nepal Communist PartyKP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahalhave discussed forming lower committees of the party by merging respective structures of then CPN-UML and CPN-Maoist Centre at the earliest, according to a three-column story in Gorkhapatra.

The two leaders have set a deadline of August 21 to finalise the remaining unification process.

Meanwhile, many leaders of the party at various levels who were elected in various government positions from last years elections are also lobbying to get party positions, according to Naya Patrika. The report quotes the partys General Secretary Bishnu Paudel to inform that the party leadership is still discussing whether officials of local, provincial and federal governments and legislatures will be given party responsibilities too.

Kathmandu Valley at risk of urban floods

Nagarik and The Kathmandu Post report on their front pages that many human settlements of Kathmandu Valley, those located on riverbanks in particular, are at the high risk of being swept away by swollen rivers as the monsoon is reaching its peak.

Floodwater entered in many settlements of landless squatters on the banks of Bagmati, Bishnumati, Dhobikhola and Hanumante yesterday, Nagarik reports, adding the flood has created havoc among locals.

The Kathmandu Post report reads, At Shantinagar and Balkhu, floodwaters travelled past the squatter hutments hemming the riversides and entered into private properties. More than 20 homes were inundated as a result. In Lalitpur district, scores of homes were flooded, particularly at Tikathali, Sano Gaun and Lubhu.

Ignored

Nepal, India to review commerce treaty

Gorkhapatra reports that officials of Nepal and India are scheduled to hold a meeting in New Delhi form Wednesday in a bid to revise the existing bilateral commerce treaty.

The two countries had signed existing treaty in 2009 and it was renewed in 2016 for seven years.

Former lawmaker held on fraud charge

Nepali Congress leader and former lawmaker Mitharam Bishwakarma Dukhi has been arrested in Kathmandu for his alleged involvement deceiving foreign employment aspirants aspiring them that he would find jobs in the United States, a three-column story in Nepal Samacharpatra reports.

A permanent resident of Parbat district of Gandaki province, Bishwakarma was arrested by a team of Department of Foreign Employment in Kathmandu about a month ago after two youth form his district filed a complaint, according to the report.

New law will cancel child marriage, polygamy

A snippet in Kantipur reports that the new civil code has a provision that child marriages, the marriages solemnised before bride or groom reaching the age of 20, and polygamy cases will be cancelled.

Earlier, such forms of marriage would be deemed illegal and the culprits would be given jail sentences or be fined; but the marriages would continue.

Monsoon to weaken from Wednesday

Republica reports that the incessant rainfall experienced in some parts of the western, central and eastern regions on Monday is likely to continue on Tuesday as well as informed by officials of the Meteorological Forecasting Division.

However, the monsoon effects will gradually weaken from Wednesday, according to meteorologist Min Kumar Aryal.

Foreigners found working on tourist visa

The Department of Immigration is preparing to take action against two Chinese and two South Korean nationals for working in Nepal on tourist visa, without obtaining work permits, reports The Himalayan Times in its anchor story.

Two Chinese women and two Korean men are working at Hi-Art Nepal Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of a Korean multinational company, according to the report.

Interesting

Supreme Court orders for kind animal transport

The Supreme Court has issued an order in the name of government to stop cruel treatment being made in the transportation of animals and implement a standard for the supply to them, according to the anchor story of Abhiyan.

A single bench of Justice Ishwar Khatiwada has handed down an interim order in response to a writ filed by advocates Padam Bahadur Shrestha and Shatkon Shrestha.
Home  Just In  Helicopter flights banned at Annapurna Base Camp

Pokhara, August 7

Annapurna Rural Municipality in Kaski district, which also includes the Annapurna Base Camp under its jurisdiction, has decided to impose a ban on operation of helicopters here.

The local government has argued that the decision was made so as to protect flora and fauna of the region.

The decision will affect rich tourists, both domestic and international, who would otherwise charter choppers to make a visit to the popular tourism.

Of late, some companies had concentrated their services along Pokhara-Machhapuchhre and Pokhara-Annapurna routes.

The Rural Municipalitys Chairman Yubaraj Kunwar says the decision was made after it was found that vibration and sound the flights would produce were chasing away various animals.

He warns that the local government would take action against helicopter operators if they defy the rule.

The decision will come into effect from August 17.

Earlier, the Annapurna Conservation Area Project had also made a similar decision, but failed to implement it.

But, the local government says it will promote trekking culture by banning the choppers.
Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will give way to cloudy skies and rain during the afternoon. High 58F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.

Tonight

Periods of rain. Low 52F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a half an inch. Locally heavy rainfall possible.

Tomorrow

Rain showers early with overcast skies later in the day. High 61F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Deputies discovered several children and arrested two men during a raid at a compound in New Mexico Friday.

Taos county deputies found 11 children, ranging in age from 1 to 15 in unhealthy conditions at the makeshift compound in Amalia.

The children were removed and turned over to state child-welfare workers. Three women, believed to be the children's mothers, were also found.

Deputies were executing a search warrant related to a joint investigation involving the abduction of a 4-year-old Georgia boy by his father, Siraj Wahhaj.

Wahhaj was one of the suspects arrested at the compound. The missing boy, however, was not there.

Wahhaj and his son were last seen together in a single-vehicle crash on December 13 in Alabama.
Birgunj, August 7

In its bid to strengthen the partys presence and cope with the challenges set by regional political forces in the region, the ruling Nepal Communist Party is launching a Marxism publicity campaign in eight districts of southern plains of the country, which are now parts of Province 2.

During the campaign, the party leaders will try to teach locals that Marxism is the best instrument to fight against all suppression and discrimination they have been facing for decades. Young people are primary targets of the campaign.

The campaign will be launched with a two-day function to be hosted in Birgunj of Parsa district on August 17 and 18. Top leaders of the party, other communist leaders and leftist intellectuals will attend the function, according to the party.

The party has formed a committee under the leadership of former minister Purushottam Paudel to make the campaign a success. Six sub-committees are working under the main committee.

Meanwhile, the committee organised a press conference in Birgunj to inform public about preparations being made for the campaign.
Home  Business  New law allows consumers to file tort cases for compensation, for the first time in Nepal

Kathmandu, August 7

The government is introducing a new consumer right law, allowing members of the public to file tort cases demanding compensation if any product or service causes harm to them. Such provision is being introduced for the first time in the country.

A bill prepared to replace various consumer rights laws with one integrated act has recently been registered in Parliament after the Cabinet endorsed it.

Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, Nawaraj Dhakal, says the new law will hold producers, service providers and other stakeholders responsible for torts.

Meanwhile, the new law will also form the Consumer Court for the first time in the country. Currently, cases related to consumer rights are filed at respective district courts, which are already slow in settling the disputes thanks to a high number of unsettled cases.

Likewise, the act will allow customers to get their money back within seven days if any product they purchase is found to be damaged.
GRANTS PASS, Ore.  Fire officials are close to declaring victory on the Garner Complex fires that just weeks ago threatened homes north of Wimer in Jackson County. The Grave Creek, Pleasant Creek, Spencer Creek and King Mountain fires of the complex remain stable at 8,886 acres burned and 85 percent containment.

"The finish line for the Garner Complex is in sight," said a statement from the Incident Management Team (IMT) on Tuesday.

By Tuesday morning, fire managers had placed two additional sections of the fire into patrol status, reporting that well over half of the fire area has "no active operations," just daily monitoring and patrol.

Fire managers expect that they will place the remaining portions of the fire on patrol status by the end of Tuesday's shift.

The IMT says that their goal has been to get the fire to a point where it can be safely "and confidently" handed back over to local Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) command.

History will judge us by what we leave behind, said Rick Dolan, Incident Commander for the Florida Red Team. Theres a lot of fire season ahead of us. We want to make sure ODF can use their resources to suppress the next fire, not come back to this one.

Crews continue to report finding isolated hot spots within 100' of the fire line toward the southern and western portions of the fire, but they do not believe that these sots pose a threat to control lines. They will be working throughout Tuesday to extinguish the remaining spots, plus pulling hoses, pumps, and returning equipment to the incident command post.

Fireighters will also be standing ready to deal with any other fires that might spring up in the area.

Fire officials estimate that the Garner Complex firefight has cost over $42 million since it began on July 15. They report 17 injuries, although the severity of those injuries is still unknown at this time.

All prior evacuation orders in the area (issued for the Pleasant Creek and Grave Creek Road regions) have been lowered to a Level 1 "Be Ready" notice. However, if Jackson County follows the same plan as neighboring Josephine County, that low-level evacuation threat will remain in effect for the remainder of the 2018 Fire Season.

Although previously considered a part of the Garner Complex, the Taylor Creek Fire west of Merlin and Grants Pass was broken out of the complex last week. Fire officials now report growing containment of the fire, but last week the Taylor Creek Fire stuck out as highly problematic compared to the rapid progress made on the other fires in the Garner Complex.
Kathmandu, August 7

A Chinese company has completed preparing a preliminary feasibility report for the proposal Kyirong-Kathmandu railway project which connects Tibet and Nepali capital.

China Railway First Survey and Design Institute has completed the task before the deadline of August end set by itself.

The government of Nepal, however, says it has not been informed about conclusions of the study and other contents of the report. Therefore, the government is sending a team of officials from the Department of Railway to take stock of the progress made for the project.

The team led by the Secretary of the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport will leave for Beijing on August 20.

During the trip, the Chinese side will share us a presentation on conclusions of the preliminary feasibility study, an official at the Department says, After that we can move ahead with the project.

However, the two governments are yet to discuss in detail and finalise a modality for the partnership in the project.

It has been said that whether the project is feasible will be decided only after the Nepali side studies the report.

The report is expected to provide a guideline on likely challenges of the project and preparations needed to deal with them. Likewise, it will decide the cost and time needed for the project.

The Chinese government will cover all the costs in the project. The preliminary feasibility study was also conducted with the Chinese investment.
By MORGAN LEE , Associated Press

AMALIA, N.M. (AP)  Searchers found the remains of a boy after raiding a makeshift compound last week in search of a missing Georgia child, authorities said Tuesday.

The remains were found Monday during a search in Amalia, near the Colorado border. Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe said. Authorities were awaiting positive identification of the remains.

The search for Abdul-ghani of Georgia led authorities Friday to the squalid compound where they found Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, the father of the missing boy, along with four other adults and 11 children living in filthy conditions.

"We discovered the remains yesterday on Abdul's fourth birthday," Hogrefe said, appearing to fight back tears.

The sheriff said authorities returned to the compound after interviews Friday and Saturday led them to believe the boy might still be on the property.

"We had a good idea of a target location to look for the child," he said

The father of the boy has been accused of leaving Georgia in December with his then 3-year-old son.

Wahhaj was expected to appear in court Wednesday on a previous warrant from Georgia that seeks his extradition to face a charge of abducting his son from that state last December.

According to the extradition warrant, Wahhaj told the boy's mother that he wanted to perform an exorcism on the child, who suffered from seizures, because he believed the 3-year-old was possessed by the devil. The mother told police that Wahhaj took the boy for a trip to a park and never returned.

Abdul-ghani was believed to have been at the Amalia compound as recently as several weeks ago, Hogrefe has said.

The warrant said the boy suffered from severe medical issues including hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, a defect caused by lack of oxygen and blood flow around the time of birth.

The boy's mother said the boy can't walk and requires constant attention.

Property owner Jason Badger said he and his wife had pressed authorities to remove the group from the makeshift compound on his land.

However, it took a plea for help and the search for the missing boy to finally draw sheriff's deputies to the desolate site that was walled off by stacks of old tires, wooden pallets and other debris.

Badger said he had concerns about the compound near the Colorado border. But he says the courts and other authorities shot down his attempts to break up the encampment  described as a trailer buried in the ground.

Court records show a judge dismissed an eviction notice filed by Badger against Lucas Morton in June. The records didn't provide further details on the judge's decision.

Morton was among the five adults arrested after the raid.

The adults, including the missing boy's father, have been charged with child abuse.

Children ages 1 to 15 were rescued from the compound that had been under investigation for months.

Hogrefe said FBI agents had surveilled the area a few weeks ago but did not find probable cause to search the property. An FBI spokesman didn't immediately return a call by The Associated Press seeking comment.

Authorities staged a raid after someone believed to have been in the compound sent out a message for help that said: "We are starving and need food and water."

It wasn't clear who sent the message or how it was communicated. Georgia detectives forwarded the message to the Taos County Sheriff's Office.

Wahhaj was armed with several guns, including a loaded AR-15 assault rifle, when he was taken into custody without incident at the compound, the sheriff said.

Morton was taken into custody on suspicion of harboring a fugitive.

Tyler Anderson, who lives near the compound, believes the group had moved to the area to live off the grid, just as he had done.

Anderson said he had helped the newcomers install solar panels after they arrived in December. But he eventually stopped visiting the compound.

Anderson said the children found inside the compound at first played at neighboring properties but stopped in recent months.

The women, believed to be mothers of some of the children, have been identified as 35-year-old Jany Leveille, 38-year-old Hujrah Wahhaj, and 35-year-old Subhannah Wahhaj.

Jail booking photos show them wearing traditional Muslim veils or hijabs. It wasn't clear whether they had retained attorneys.

The public defender's office in Taos County did not immediately return a telephone message from The Associated Press seeking comment.

___

AP writers Mary Hudetz in Albuquerque and Kate Brumback in Jonesboro, Georgia, contributed to this report.
TRAIL, Ore.  With thunderstorms failing to appear over Wednesday night near the borders of Jackson and Douglas counties, fire officials working on the Miles, Columbus and Snowshow fires say that their crews were able to focus on making significant inroads.

Firefighters continued their focused efforts and gained the upper hand in several areas of these fires. In addition, the Fire Weather Watch that had been in place for Thursday was removed, even though a slight chance of an isolated thunderstorms remains to the east of the firetoward Klamath and Lake counties.

Also aiding fire crews is the lingering smoke from these and other fires throughout Southern Oregon, providing shade and reducing fire behavior. Fire managers remain cautiously optimistic as suppression objectives are succeeding as planned.

Firefighters are sticking to objectives set early in the suppression effort by minimizing acres burned while providing for public and firefighter safety and protecting all values at risk. Crews remain primed and ready should new fire starts occur in the area, providing initial attack as needed.

By Thursday, the Snowshoe Fire was considered at full containment and fire officials announced large leaps in progress made on the other two major fires.

On the Miles Fire, control lines were strengthened as crews continued to douse hotspots from the perimeter deeper into the fires interior. With established control lines in place, crews were working to keep the fire south of Forest Service Road 1610 on the fires northwest corner.

When appropriate, fire officials say that "burnout" operations will continue on the northeast corner of the fire, utilizing Forest Service Road 6640 as a secure and improved containment line to work from. Fallers will continue removing hazard trees, or snags, known for spewing fire brands over containment lines that increase the potential of spot fires.

Miles Fire - 32,519 acres, 25 percent contained (Just north of Lost Creek Lake, roughly between Trail and Prospect)

Columbus Fire - 9,762 acres, 22 percent contained (Due north of the Miles Fire in the Umpqua National Forest)

Snowshoe Fire - 3,816 acres, 100 percent contained (Due north of Trail, largely contained)

Evacuee Assistance: Evacuees seeking assistance may contact the American Red Cross at (888) 680-1455. The shelter is currently on standby at Eagle Point High School.
EUGENE, Ore. -- Two men were arrested Sunday evening after a shooting in a Eugene neighborhood, police said.

Eugene police arrested Brian McCollom, 37, and James Davidson, 36, for unlawful use of a weapon after responding to a report of an armed suspect near the 700 block of West 11th Avenue after 7:30 p.m.

Police observed a suspect shooting a pump-action shotgun in a residential area. Multiple units responded, and an armored vehicle was on scene to maximize safety.

Residents received a public safety alert to shelter in place.

Officers used a public address system and sirens in an attempt to make contact. One man emerged soon after and another fled back inside. After repeated attempts to make contact, the second man surrendered.

Officers located numerous discharged shotgun shells at the scene.
SPRINGFIELD, Ore. -- The deadly fire in Redding has communities banding together, and not just in California but in Oregon too people are doing their part to help the people affected by the Carr Fire.

Christian Oliver and his two children are trying to show their support those affected by the fires in California. Oliver said they have a lot family and friends down there who have been forced out of their homes, leaving all their belongings.

He said over the past week, they have been reaching out to local businesses in hopes of making a difference.

"We didn't just want to sit around and watch the families endure what they've been enduring down in California, Oliver said. So, we started cold calling businesses essentially and knocking on doors to get the community involved and getting donations and fire relief down to the victims of the fires."

He said all the Les Schwabs in Eugene and Springfield have agreed to be donation drop-off sites and Coburg Storage has agreed to help as well.

Oliver said their biggest need right now is non-perishable foods, water, towels, blankets and diapers.

Oliver said the full list of items they are in need of include: non-perishable food, hot dogs, hamburgers, buns, bread, peanut butter, jelly, individual snacks, water, Capri Suns, soda, juice, eggs, toiletries, hygiene products, shampoo, conditioner, hand sanitizer, deodorant, eye masks, Chapstick, Fixodent, earplugs, diapers, baby formula, baby bottles, baby items, baby wipes, towels, paper towels, toilet paper, laundry soap, paper plates, napkins, tents, cots, air mattresses, sleeping bags, blankets, pillows, clothes, socks, underwear, flashlights, and size D batteries.

He said they are in need of more volunteers and resources to transport the donations.

To get involved you can email Oliver at dizzleman1984@gmail.com or message him on his Facebook -- Christian Oliver.
MILO, Ore. -- Increasing temperatures throughout the week could cause the Miles, Columbus, Snow Shoe and Round Top fires to continue to spread.

The fires, formerly known as the South Umpqua Complex Fire, are being called by the four names theyve been given now that theyre no longer considered a complex of fires.

Over the weekend, a type one incident management team took control of the two base camps in the area.

With that type one team comes more fluid communication between the 1,700 personnel fighting the nearly 38,000 acres of wildfires.

Jodie Barram with the Incident Management Team said that will allow them to continue to build on the work that has already been done to contain these fires.

As the fire grows and moves into different topography, they take some of those earlier plans and continue to build on them, Barram said. They continue to put in those dozer lines, continue to assess the situation given the weather forecast for the upcoming week.

Right as theyre taking over, Incident Management Team Meteorologist Donny Dumont said temperatures are starting to rise again which could cause issues for fire containment.

The hotness and dryness will be the key component the next two to three days, Dumont said. By Friday, were actually looking like its going to break down what we call a heat ridge, but were going to have winds coming in by Friday. It could be cooler, but the winds going to drive the fire. So, really, like I said, its picking your poison.

The Snow Shoe and Round Top fires are at nearly 96 percent containment, but the four fires together are only at 18 percent containment.

With the increasing temperatures, winds and changing fire patterns, Barram said the public needs to stay as informed as possible about the fires.

Stay connected with your community and talk to your neighbors about whats going on, and working with our sheriffs offices in both counties for evacuations, Barram said.

Incident management officials want to remind people that there are two public meetings happening this week.

There will be one on Wednesday at the Tiller Fire Station and one on Thursday at the Shady Cove community center.

Both of those are happening at 6:30 p.m.

The cooperating agencies on these fires are as follows:

 Rogue River National Forest

 Umpqua National Forest

 Oregon Dept. of Forestry

 BLM-Medford

 Army Corps of Engineers

 Jackson County

 Douglas County

 Cow Creek Band of the Umpqua Tribe
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- A Portland-area man who was accused of shouting threats at a Muslim couple he followed in his car was sentenced to anger management classes, 100 hours of community service and three years of probation.

The Oregonian/OregonLive reports 50-year-old Fredrick Nolan Sorrell was sentenced Friday after pleading no contest in April to two misdemeanor counts of intimidation.

Multnomah County Circuit Judge Benjamin Souede also ordered Sorrell to pay a $1,653 fine and have a meaningful discussion with Portland's Muslim community.

Sorrell apologized to the couple during his previous plea hearing, saying they didn't deserve his hateful rant, which occurred in May 2017.

Authorities say the Oregon chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations will organize Sorrell's discussion with the Muslim community.
COTTAGE GROVE, Ore. -- A volunteer for Special Olympics Oregon in Cottage Grove is demanding answers from the nonprofits CEO after $50,000 specifically meant for the Cottage Grove events appears to have gone missing.

Local Program Coordinator Carmen Dowell said the money came from the estate of Michelle Portmann, who died in 2011 after being hit by a car while riding her bike. Documents obtained by KEZI 9 News show that the money was from Portmann's estate and was intended for the Cottage Grove Special Olympics.

"This money should've lasted my generation, the next generation, and the next generation, Dowell said.

Dowell said the money was put in an endowment fund and was managed by Special Olympics Oregon. Financial records show that as of January 2017 there were more than $50,000 in the account.

But on Aug. 1, Dowell said leaders from Special Olympics Oregon told her the account was never set up and they have no record of the money.

It's just unfair, and someone needs to be held accountable for it, Dowell said. I feel they robbed ... they robbed us of our money and the athletes of the social networking that they do.

After KEZI started asking questions to Special Olympics Oregon leaders about the money, Dowell said officials called her back and said they found $14,000 from the account. Dowell says shes still wondering what happened to the rest.

In a statement to KEZI 9 News, Special Olympics Oregon CEO Britt Carlson Oase said the gift is referenced in their 2012 to 2016 audited financials, showing updated balances each year. The process of their 2017 audited financials is underway.

Michelles sister, Marsha Yandell, said her sister loved Cottage Grove and everyone in it. She wants to find out what happened to the money.

She believed the people that she was giving the money to would be good stewards of her bequest, Yandell said. I don't know what happened. I don't have enough facts. I just hope there is a thorough investigation and that this account is made whole.

Dowell said she works with around 40 athletes every year, and they serve the Creswell community as well.

She and parents of Special Olympics athletes plan to hold a protest at Opal Park in Cottage Grove Wednesday, Aug. 8, starting at 4 p.m. Dowell is not encouraging people to donate to Special Olympics Oregon, saying they cant be trusted. She plans to host other events for the athletes outside of Special Olympics.
OTTUMWA, Iowa (AP)  A county prosecutor in southern Iowa says a Fairfield man was killed and two Ottumwa men have been charged with attempted murder and other charges after a shootout with police followed an armed robbery at a home on the city's south side.

Wapello County Attorney Gary Oldenburger says in a statement released Monday that 35-year-old David Roy White of Fairfield was killed Friday and 32-year-old Michael Paul Bibby of Ottumwa was shot and is recovering at a local hospital.

Police launched a manhunt and later located and arrested 23-year-old Dalton Wayne Cook of Ottumwa.

Bibby and Cook are charged with burglary, robbery and six counts of attempted murder.

Court documents say White, Bibby and Cook forced their way into an Ottumwa home and stole items from the residents. A man outside the home was shot and is recovering from wounds at a hospital.

The three armed men fled and were intercepted by Ottumwa police officers near Liberty Elementary School, where the shootout occurred. No officers were injured.

Online court records do not yet indicate the men have attorneys.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  Relatives of a man shot to death by St. Paul police officers have joined calls for the immediate release of the officers' body camera videos and the 911 call that preceded his death.

The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension said in a statement Tuesday that William James Hughes, 43, died of multiple gunshot wounds early Sunday after officers responded to a 911 call of multiple shots fired on the upper floor of the St. Paul apartment building where he lived.

The BCA said its preliminary investigation found that Officers Matthew Jones and Vincent Adams entered an enclosed porch and knocked on one of two exterior apartment doors. Hughes emerged from the other door and at some point the officers shot him. He died at the scene .

Hughes' relatives and their supporters held a vigil Monday evening outside the Minneapolis American Indian Center, beating a drum and singing in his honor. He was a member of the White Earth Nation, an Ojibwe band based in northern Minnesota. They said his death was especially painful because his cousin was killed in a confrontation with police in 2015.

"Through our grief and difficulty, we have been left with more questions than answers as to why police officers decided to abruptly and violently take Billy's life," said his cousin, Dannah Thompson.

The BCA's statement didn't say why the officers opened fire or give any other details about what transpired during the confrontation. But police spokesman Sgt. Mike Ernester said Sunday that the man was armed with a handgun, and that their body cameras were activated. A gun was recovered at the scene, the BCA said without providing further details about the weapon.

Asked what led officers to shoot and where the gun was recovered, BCA spokeswoman Jill Oliveira said those details are part of the ongoing investigation, and that under state law the agency can't discuss active investigations.

Thompson said the family wants police to immediately release the officers' body camera video and 911 calls.

When the family found out about Hughes' death, they said, "Not again," his aunt said.

A cousin of Hughes, Philip Quinn, was fatally shot by St. Paul officer nearly four years ago. Investigators said Quinn was schizophrenic and suicidal when he charged the officer with a screwdriver. A grand jury cleared the officers involved.

"When is it going to stop?" asked Kathy Ficken, the aunt of both Hughes and Quinn.

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter has called for the quick release of the videos but has not heard when they might become available, his spokeswoman, Liz Xiong, said Monday.

The Minnesota chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union issued a statement Monday calling on investigators to be more transparent.

"Whenever police kill someone, it is a tragedy," the chapter's legal director, Teresa Nelson, said in a statement. "A police shooting can affect the whole community. The residents of St. Paul along with the family ... deserve to know what happened in this tragic incident. The investigation should be transparent and done in a timely manner."

When the BCA completes its investigation, the Ramsey County attorney's office will review the findings and decide if charges are warranted.

Jones and Adams joined the force in 2013. Jones' father, Tim Jones, was a St. Paul officer who was slain in 1994 by a man who was on the run after killing another officer earlier that day. They're both on standard paid leave while the investigation proceeds.
BUFFALO CENTER, Iowa (AP)  The federal government has fined an Iowa nursing home nearly $77,500 over deficiencies in care for residents.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services notified Timely Mission in Buffalo Center about the fine on Friday, the Globe Gazette reported.

The notification letter cites findings from the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals, which surveyed the facility in June. Officials said they found conditions that constituted "immediate jeopardy" to resident health and safety.

According to state officials, nursing home resident Virginia Olthoff, 87, was dehydrated, in severe pain and weighed less than 100 pounds prior to her death in February. They said staffers waited nearly three hours before requesting an ambulance, despite being unable to get a blood pressure reading or feel her pulse.

Olthoff may not have had water for several days before being admitted to the hospital, state officials said. She died after being returned to the nursing home on Feb. 27, the same day she was admitted to the hospital.

The facility has 60 days to appeal the federal fine. The CMS letter said the fine will be reduced by 35 percent if nursing home officials waive their right to an appeal.

Timely Mission President Lorie Bierle declined to comment to the newspaper.
ROCHESTER, Minn.- Minnesota primary election less than 10 days away and local leaders are urging residents to get out and vote.

Inside the People's Food Co-op in Rochester, former Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie, Congressman Tim Walz's wife Gwen Walz and Rochesters Mayor Ardele Brede spoke to residents about the importance of voting.

Minnesota's primary election is August 14th. Mayor Brede is out trying to get people to take part.

He says a lot of people don't understand how powerful their vote is.

There's always a small number of people that vote. So, a small number can change the whole pattern, said the Mayor.

The results of the primary will narrow down the candidates for a Senate seat... and the positions of state Attorney General and Governor.
WATERLOO, Iowa (AP)  Waterloo Fire Rescue's proposal to bill insurance companies for its emergency response costs has been rejected.

City council members voted 5-2 Monday against the plan that would seek payments for the city's manpower and equipment costs when responding to car accidents, fires and other emergency calls, The Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier reported.

Councilman Bruce Jacobs said the plan is "just not politically acceptable right now." He was joined by Sharon Juon, Steve Schmitt, Jerome Amos Jr. and Margaret Klein in rejecting the measure.

"I thought it was a good source of revenue to reduce our budget for public safety," Jacobs said. "But after talking to many people in my ward, not one person was in favor of it."

The department's proposal wouldn't have billed victims directly and wouldn't have sought payment when insurance didn't cover the fees.

But several residents still voiced objections to the plan before the vote, noting that they already pay taxes for public safety services.

Resident Todd Obadal called the plan a "backdoor, off-the-book tax" aiming to make the property tax rate look lower without actually reducing costs.

More than 900 cities in more than 40 states utilize fire recovery fees, said Fire Chief Pat Treloar. He said insurance experts have told him that about 50 percent of insurance policies have some level of coverage for fire rescue response.

"I thought we had support to pass the initiative but I was wrong,"Treloar said. "I respect the decision of the council."
MASON CITY, Iowa  A man accused of breaking a womans face is pleading guilty.

Scott Allen North, 50 of Mason City, has entered a guilty plea to assault with intent to inflict serious injury. Authorities say he backhanded a woman in the face during an argument on May 24 in Mason City and broke the orbital bone around one of her eyes. Law enforcement says the woman also needed eight stiches to close a cut above her right eye.

Norths sentencing is set for September 10 in Cerro Gordo County District Court.
DECORAH, Iowa  Two northeast Iowa teens are now accused of attempted murder for what authorities called a brutal beating.

Dalton Adam, 18 of Decorah, and Jacob Taylor Seelinger, 17 of Decorah, are both charged with willful injury causing serious injury and attempt to commit murder. Authorities say they attacked a man around 11:30 pm on July 12 in the 1700 block of Old Stage Road.

Law enforcement says when they responded to a 911 call, they found the victim in bad shape medically. He was gurgling and had a bloody and badly swollen face. Authorities say Adam and Seelinger had left the area and were arrested later.

Seelingers trial is scheduled to begin on December 12. Adam has requested his trial be moved out of Winneshiek County and no start date has been set.

No mug shot of Seelinger is available.
MASON CITY, Iowa - The PGI Convention is creating a boom beyond the noise of the fireworks; it's helping boost local businesses.

Businesses like restaurants and hotels are seeing great sales and customer numbers; in fact, some are saying this week may be the biggest week of the year for them. Hotel rooms in town are mostly, if not all, booked through the rest of the week.

Mike Mosher lives near Cedar Rapids, and came to the convention on Sunday.

He says that it's convenient having the convention so close to home.

"About 2 hours 45 minutes, give or take depending on which way I go."

And since he's been in town, he spends money at nearby businesses.

"I try to hit the restaurants. Just a little bit ago, had to run to the farm store...and apparently I can't count, so I had to get some more posts."

Benjamin Alberto is the owner of Las Palmas, and is always happy when PGI comes to town.

"People like to sit here on the patio. They're already calling in to see if they can get it reserved. And people want to sit out here and have a nice cold margarita and watch the fireworks."

And like Alberto, Mosher hopes that the convention will return to Mason City in the future.

"Mason City is a good venue, nice central location, kinda centralized for everybody."

About 2300-2500 people are expected to be in town throughout the week for the convention.
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)  A spokesman for a central Iowa nonprofit says the reward fund for a missing University of Iowa student has grown to more than $300,000 and is likely to continue climbing.

Greg Willey, spokesman for Crime Stoppers of Central Iowa, says the Mollie Tibbetts reward fund has reached $301,363, which is a record for the organization that was incorporated in 1982.

Willey says donations have come from more than 180 individuals and businesses from across the country.

The fund has been established to help return Tibbetts to her family. The 20-year-old woman went missing on July 18 from her hometown of Brooklyn, about 70 miles (112.7 kilometers) east of Des Moines.

Officers from the FBI, state and local law enforcement agencies are working to find her.

She was last seen jogging on the city streets in the town of 1,400.
ROCHESTER, Minn.  Law enforcement had to save his life, now hes been sentenced to probation.

Jacob Reid Bothun, 26 of Rochester, pleaded guilty to theft of a motor vehicle and received 10 years of supervised probation on Monday. He must also either pay a $1,000 fine or perform 100 hours of community work service.

Authorities say Bothun stole a car on February 24 and then escaped arrest when he was spotted on April 30 after a high speed chase.

Bothun was eventually found on May 1, unconscious in a pole shed along Highway 14 East. He was given Narcan and other life-saving treatment and taken to the hospital.
ROCHESTER, Minn.  A woman accused of keeping drugs in a home with her three children is pleading not guilty.

Jenny Lynn Dee, 46 of Rochester, was arrested on February 20 after a search by the Olmsted County Sheriffs Office and the Southeast Minnesota Violent Crimes Enforcement Team. Law enforcement says they found 29.02 grams of methamphetamine, four grams of heroin, and items used in the sale of drugs.

Authorities say a 12-year-old, a six-year-old, and a three-year-old where in the home when the search occurred.

Dee is charged with 1st degree drug sales, 2nd and 5th degree drug possession, storing meth paraphernalia in the presence of a child, and child endangerment. Her trial is scheduled to begin on December 17.
DES MOINES, Iowa  Vice President Mike Pence is scheduled to return to Iowa on August 15.

The organization America First Policies says Pence will talk about President Trumps tax cutting agenda at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center in Des Moines. Doors will open at 11 am, with the Vice President scheduled to speak a 1 pm.

The event will be first come, first served.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Reuters) - Former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manaforts right-hand man testified at trial on Tuesday that Manafort instructed him not to tell their firms bookkeeper about payments from accounts in Cyprus that held millions of dollars in earnings from consulting work for pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine.

Rick Gates, the U.S. governments star witness in Manaforts trial on tax fraud and bank fraud charges, told a federal court jury in Alexandria, Virginia, that there were hundreds of emails showing Manafort approved payments out of the Cypriot accounts.

Gates testimony on the trials sixth day was part of the prosecutions effort to prove that Manafort was responsible for financial maneuverings that he and other witnesses have testified include filing false tax returns and failing to report foreign bank accounts.

Gates, Manaforts long-time business partner, is expected to face a tough cross-examination later on Tuesday by defense lawyers in the first trial to arise from Special Counsel Robert Muellers investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election. The Kremlin denies election meddling.

While outside the scope of the trial, Mueller is also investigating whether Trump campaign members coordinated with Moscow, an allegation President Donald Trump denies.

Manaforts defense is seeking to pin the blame on Gates himself, who has acknowledged embezzling from Manaforts firm.

Manafort, 69, has pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of bank fraud, tax fraud and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts.

Gates, who also was an official on Trumps campaign, pleaded guilty in February to lying to investigators and conspiring to defraud the United States and agreed to cooperate.

On Tuesday, Gates also testified about modified invoices for payments to U.S. vendors that he said he created at Manaforts request. The invoices were created to meet document requirements of a bank, Gates said, adding that the payments were legitimate.

He testified about a complex scheme in which earnings from Manaforts political work in Ukraine would be paid by Ukrainian businessmen using companies in Cyprus to other Cyprus-based companies controlled by Manafort.

Prosecutors showed contracts laying out that Manafort would be paid $4 million a year in quarterly installments of $1 million, all channeled through Cyprus. The funds were logged as loans, but Gates testified they were in fact compensation to Manafort.

Money from the Ukraine work dried up after pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych was forced from power in 2014, Gates testified. A $1 million payment for work in 2014 was significantly past due and Mr. Manafort was quite upset the money had not been sent, Gates told the court.

Manaforts Kiev-based aide Konstantin Kilimnik was able to collect $500,000, Gates said, but to my knowledge it was never paid in full. Kilimnik was indicted in the Mueller investigation in June.

Gates, 46, testified on Monday that he helped falsify Manaforts tax returns and hide his foreign bank accounts. He testified that he has met with prosecutors about 20 times. It is unclear what other information he may have provided to Muellers team.

Gates admitted on Monday that he did steal money through inflated expense reports, but he said it was hundreds of thousands of dollars, not millions as defense lawyers stated.

Manaforts lawyers are expected to use the theft to try to undermine Gates credibility as a witness. They also are likely to bring up his making false statements to investigators.

One issue that could be a challenge for prosecutors on Tuesday is the extent to which they are allowed to admit evidence about Manaforts Ukraine work and the oligarchs who paid him. On Monday, U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis repeatedly clashed with prosecutors about the relevance of such testimony and once again urged them to speed things along.
Fortuna Silver Mines Inc. (NYSE: FSM; TSX: FVI) has pushed back the expected start of commercial production at the Lindero gold project in Argentina slightly, now putting this at the end of the third quarter of 2019 instead of the beginning. This was brought about by changes in building and expansion of the camp, explains Jorge A. Ganoza, president, chief executive officer and director. The estimate of the initial capital cost of the project is now forecast by the company to increase by 10% to 17%. As of the end of July, Fortuna had assigned purchase orders and construction contracts totaling $131 million, or 71% of the total direct capital cost. With Lindero in its first year of full production, Fortuna says its consolidated precious-metals annual production is expected to increase in 2020 to 190,000 ounces of gold and 9 million ounces of silver, or 328,000 gold-equivalent2 ounces.

By Allen Sykora of Kitco News; asykora@kitco.com

Hecla Reports New Mineralization, Integrates Nevada Properties

Hecla Mining Co. (NYSE: HL) reports a number of discoveries at existing mines as a result of drill program, plus plans to integrate Nevada operations after the recent acquisition of Klondex Mines Ltd. Hecla reports new and/or expanded mineralization at Casa Berardi, San Sebastian and Greens Creek. The teams at Casa Berardi, Greens Creek and San Sebastian are discovering high-grade material, both at surface and at depth, says Phillips S. Baker, Jr., president and chief executive officer. A new focus is our 110-square-mile land package in Nevada, where we are integrating the existing exploration team and ramping-up drilling. Hecla is scheduled to release its second-quarter financial results on Thursday. The company has already reported April-June production data, with silver output falling year-on-year to 2.6 million ounces but gold production rising to 60,313.

By Allen Sykora of Kitco News; asykora@kitco.com

Condor Gets Permit For Gold Project In Nicaragua

Condor Gold (AIM: CNR; TSX: COG) says it has received the necessary environmental permit to construct and operate a mine at its La India gold project in Nicaragua. The permit gives the OK for a 2,800-tonne-per-day processing plan. Gold production is expected to be approximately 80,000 ounces gold per annum from a single open pit, represents a $120 million investment and creates 1,000 new jobs, says Mark Child, chairman and chief executive officer. The company must still submit final engineered designs for approval by authorities and complete a feasibility study.
(Kitco News) - While many investors are waiting for a potential short-squeeze to breathe new life into the marketplace, one fund manager is benefiting from golds definitive downtrend.

In a report Monday, Insch Capital Management said its gold-based currency fund saw a monthly return of 6.4%, reversing its 12-month 6.24% loss. Since its inception in February 2015, the fund has seen a gain of 57.1%. During the same time, gold prices have declined nearly 4%.

Christopher Cruden, chief executive officer at Insch, said, in a telephone interview with Kitco News that the firms proprietary trading system started signaling a clear downtrend in late-June and since then, the fund has been net short gold against most major Group of Seven currencies. The fund is short 11 risk units out of a total of 14 trading units.

Cruden said that the fund is currently long one risk unit against the British pound and it has no position in gold vs. the Japanese yen. Its not surprising the fund sees potential in gold against the pound as the currency has fallen to more than a one-year low against the U.S. dollar. The pound has struggled as ongoing Brexit negotiations raise risks for the nations economy.

The firms gold fund trades gold as a currency against the U.S. dollar, Australian Dollar, Canadian dollar, Japanese yen, British pound, Swiss franc, and euro.

While not a market strategist or technical chart analyst, Cruden said that he sees further room to the downside in the global market, as the yellow metal struggles to find momentum with prices hovering above last weeks fresh 12-month lows.

The trend looks very strong and single-minded to the downside after spending a long time in a sideways pattern, he said. The path of least resistance appears to be lower. Our job is to just hang on to golds coat tails for as long as we can.

According to the analysts at Insch, this is the sixth time the Fund has been net-bearish against most of its currency pairs. The last time the system signaled a clear bearish trend was in early December 2017, when the fund saw a monthly gain of more than 8%.

What makes this latest downtrend fascinating is that it is much longer than previous short periods. On average, the funds short-trends last about eight trading sessions, analysts say. In this latest downtrend, the fund has been net short for 23 trading days.

Cruden noted that the funds latest gains came after a relatively frustrating start to the year when gold was trapped in a relatively narrow trading range with no clear price trend.

The difficulty in making money on the downside is the fact that a downtrend doesnt usually last as long as an uptrend, he added.
(Adds details)

JOHANNESBURG, Aug 7 (Reuters) - South Africa's AMCU union will embark on unspecified industrial action at Impala Platinum if talks with the company over its plans to cut a third of its workforce fail to stem the lay-offs, the union's president said on Tuesday.

Joseph Mathunjwa, who in the past has led crippling strikes in the platinum sector, was speaking to journalists about Implats' announcement last week about a blueprint to cut over 13,000 jobs at its Rustenburg operations as it seeks to restore profits. "We will hit where it hurts," Mathunjwa said.

The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) was renowned in the past for its militancy but it has mellowed in recent years and it is unclear what appetite there would be for a strike among its rank and file.

Implats' flagship Rustenburg mine west of Johannesburg is a labour-intensive, conventional operation and most of those are losing money in South Africa in the face of soaring costs and depressed prices for platinum.

Most mechanised platinum mines are making money but that is not an option at Rustenburg because of geological constraints.

(Reporting by Tanisha Heiberg and Patricia Aruo; writing by Ed Stoddard; editing by James Macharia and Jason Neely)

Messaging: edward.stoddard.thomsonreuters.com@reuters.net))
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AUBO Robotics opens research facility at Cherokee Farm Innovation Campus



KNOXVILLE - AUBO Robotics, which develops lightweight robots for industrial use, has opened a research and development facility at Cherokee Farm Innovation Campus in Knoxville.





University of Tennessee mechanical engineering student Benjamin Terry demonstrates his teams senior research project at AUBO Robotics at the Cherokee Farm Innovation Campus research park in Knoxville, Tennessee. The team added visual recognition capability to the industrial robot manufacturers existing AUBO-i5 robot.

AUBO Robotics opened in Knoxville in 2014 as Smokie Robotics and was formerly located at the University of Tennessee Research Foundation Business Incubator. The company is owned by DunAn Group and operates a second research and development corporation in Beijing, China.



We chose Cherokee Farm because the campus allows us access to some of the best research and development facilities in the world, said Peter Farkas, vice president of AUBO Robotics. Everything from basic science to large-scale advanced manufacturing and innovation in robotics and automation is covered within a 25-mile radius.



The companys research will benefit industry as well as the university.



AUBO Robotics creates exceptional possibilities that will allow for collaboration between the university and the company, Farkas said. Students will be a primary beneficiary of the development facility because of the applied knowledge in a working environment. AUBO Robotics will contribute to both industrial applications and academic research in the field.



Four UT mechanical engineering students  Jose Bonilla, Christopher Mobley, Benjamin Terry and Jasmine Worlds  conducted their senior project this year using the arm of an existing AUBO-i5 robot with the challenge to give the robot eyes and get the arm to pick up any aesthetic object, Bonilla said.



The students used their programming experience to enhance the functionality of the robotic arm by coding it to pick up objects by visual retrieval. AUBO Robotics allows students to apply knowledge from the classroom to a real-world challenge, and, in this case, their work will assist with the robotic arm being operational on industrial production lines. AUBO Robotics industry-leading products are designed to be adaptable across multiple industrial platforms with workplace safety a key objective.



Cherokee Farm Innovation Campus is a collaboration between UT and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. It is the first research park in the United States to build a world-class materials science research facility for its tenants  the Joint Institute for Advanced Materials. The $56 million, 140,000-square-foot facility offers unparalleled advanced research capabilities, including polymer labs and advanced microscopy.



This partnership with AUBO Robotics is evidence that our vision for Cherokee Farm is becoming reality, said Cliff Hawks, president and CEO of Cherokee Farm Development Corporation. Our primary goal is to develop public-private partnerships that advance relationships with the technology resources in our region, and AUBO Robotics aligns perfectly with our mission.



AUBO Robotics develops lightweight cooperative robots that can be used in multiple industries, including the automotive, electronics, machinery and technology fields. The modularized open unit robots, known as OURs, offer affordable, reliable, reconfigurable and open-architecture robots to end users and researchers. Open architecture means it is easy to add, upgrade and swap components.



The partnership between UT and ORNL and immediate availability of a state-of-the-art facility for high-end, collaborative research were factors in AUBO Robotics decision to select Cherokee Farm.



AUBO Robotics is the third private tenant announced for Cherokee Farm Innovation Campus. Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC), which provides innovative design solutions and integrated expertise in multiple engineering fields, was announced in May 2016 as the anchor tenant in the campus first privately developed building. Arkis BioSciences, a medical device company, opened on the campus in October 2017.



Cherokee Farm Innovation Campus is an ideal fit for firms that will benefit from close partnerships with UT and ORNL and access to the unparalleled capabilities of the Joint Institute for Advanced Materials. The campus is leasing space and will build to suit. For additional information, visit www.cherokeefarm.org.



About Cherokee Farm Innovation Campus at the University of Tennessee

Cherokee Farm Innovation Campus in Knoxville, Tennessee, is the Southeasts only research and development (R&D) park where the resources of a major research university and a leading national laboratory are combined with globally recognized researchers expressly for the benefit of tenants. The campus is a collaborative effort of the University of Tennessee and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Located on 188 acres on the banks of the Tennessee River, the campus has 77 developable acres and includes 16 building sites that support approximately 1.6 million square feet of development. Parcels are available for immediate development, and research suite leasing is underway.
CL, performing in "MTV Spotlight @ Hyperplay" at Singapore Indoor Stadium on Aug. 4, appears fatter than most international fans remember her. Photos from social media



By Ko Dong-hwan





CL at Incheon International Airport on Aug. 3.

K-pop artist CL from defunct girl band 2NE1 shocked fans who believe the rapper, known for her charisma, sexiness and her appearance on Psy's music video and at the PyeongChang Olympics' closing ceremony, has apparently been neglecting to watch her weight.



Public relation staffer Shim Jae-geol from YG Entertainment, which manages her, declined to comment on her "transformation," saying "it wouldn't be any woman's interest to talk about such topic."



Media outlets and social media spread news, photos and videos of the star entering Terminal 2 at Incheon International Airport on Aug. 3 surrounded by managers, chauffeurs and fans.



Wearing running shoes, ripped blue jeans, a black T-shirt and red-framed sunglasses over yellow-dyed hair, the former leader of the four-member band-with-attitude was completely devoid of the slim physique or chic fashion style that marked her "airport looks."



A video showed the former adidas model entering the terminal and heading straight to the boarding area through a security gate, leaving behind the person filming the video. She did not forget to smile at reporters.



After her appearance at the airport, she performed in Singapore the next day for "MTV Spotlight @ Hyperplay" at Singapore Indoor Stadium. Hyperplay, the first concert that brings together esports and music, will feature on "MTV Spotlight" special on Aug. 21 in Southeast Asia.



Fans' photos and videos on social media show the star performing during the concert, wearing a huge white coat to hide her body.





Despite CL's looks, some audience members and fans praised her performance, sharing photos and videos.



Online fans posted footages from her latest gig. One said, "She's still hot as fire (no matter what size people are)." Another said, "Yeah, CL has gained weight but she's still the sexiest badass female idol." Another posted that CL "reminds me of Mariah Carey's post-heyday glamor."



A Twitter post referred to her performance as "truly a scene stealer" and said, "The power CL holds on the stage was and always will be amazing, one and only, baddest female."



Apart from the positive feedback on her performance, shocked Koreans tried to make sense of why the star gained weight. One clue was her social media post from August 2017, in which she confessed that 2NE1's disbanding in November 2016 "shattered her."



"It was all my life and (taking the toll) wasn't easy," CL said in the online post. "I need time for restoration."





CL in November 2013. Korea Times file
The United Nations Security Council on Monday adopted guidelines to ease the provision of humanitarian aid to North Korea in the face of crippling sanctions against the regime, news reports said.

The guidelines were proposed by the United States last month as international aid groups complained of bureaucratic obstacles caused by the sanctions over North Korea's development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, the AFP reported.

A Security Council committee that monitors sanctions on North Korea said none of the 15 council members objected to the plan, and it would be circulated among all 193 U.N. member states, according to the AP.

The U.N. estimates that nearly half of North Korea's population -- some 10 million people -- are in need of food. The country also faces a shortage of medical supplies.

The guidelines are designed to expedite the process of winning the committee's exemption to provide aid to the North. They recommend that governments and nongovernmental organizations submit their requests in a letter with 10 elements, including a description of the items to be delivered and assurances the goods will be used for their intended purposes.












Hur Hee-soo

The vice president of South Korean food and beverage giant SPC Group has been arrested over suspicions he smuggled and smoked liquid marijuana, prosecutors said Tuesday.



The Seoul Eastern District Prosecutors' Office said Hur Hee-soo, the company's vice president, was taken into custody on Monday. Prosecutors are investigating details of the alleged crime, including whether he had an accomplice.



"We apologize for causing concerns with a disgraceful incident," the company said in a statement. "Vice President Hur has been dismissed from all his positions within the group, and will be permanently excluded from the company's management."



Hur, the second son of group chairman Hur Young-in, joined the firm in 2007. SPC Group is the operator of South Korea's largest bakery chain Paris Baguette. (Yonhap)
By Kim Bo-eun



Multiple reports of ships allegedly carrying North Korean coal to South Korea are expected to weigh on the alliance between South Korea and the U.S., despite the two governments stating that this is an excessive concern.



But these discoveries are becoming a sensitive issue for the U.S., which has vowed to maintain sanctions strictly until the North takes concrete denuclearization steps.



The government is currently investigating nine instances of suspected North Korean coal imports. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions imposed last August ban Pyongyang from exporting coal, iron and other mineral resources, and member states from buying them.



A further damning allegation is that suspected North Korean coal was bought by a subsidiary of the state-run Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO).



The U.S. has maintained a clear stance on North Korean sanctions, with Washington issuing an enforcement advisory last month, days after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visited the UNSC and called for the strict maintenance of the restrictions imposed on Pyongyang.



"We still want strict enforcement of all the sanctions _ we continuously speak with all the countries in the region about the importance of that," National Security Adviser John Bolton said in an interview with Fox News, referring to the cases under investigation.





UN approves plan to unlock humanitarian aid to North Korea US holds key to ending Korean War What are possible steps to ease North Korean sanctions "We're not going to tolerate diminution of the effect of the sanctions and will take necessary steps including enforcement steps to keep the sanctions tight."



The U.S. referred earlier to South Korea as a partner that is heeding UNSC sanctions, but concerns may develop as new findings continue to surface.



A VOA report stated Tuesday that a vessel suspected to have carried coal from North Korea is currently anchored at South Korea's southern port of Pohang, based on data from Marine Traffic.



The Belize-flagged vessel Jin Long departed from Russia's Nakhodka Port that handles coal shipments, and is presumed to have entered Pohang carrying coal from Russia, based on satellite images from Planet Labs. It is one of the three vessels Rep. Yoo Ki-june of the main opposition Liberty Korea Party referred to as having brought North Korean coal to the South. The lawmaker leads a taskforce looking into suspicions over North Korean coal imports.



"The Jin Long, which has been reported as a vessel suspected to have carried North Korean coal, carried 5,100 tons of what is presumed to be coal from Russia's Nakhodka port and entered Pohang port Saturday and will leave today," Yoo said in a press conference Tuesday.



The lawmaker as well as data from Marine Traffic state the Jin Long has entered South Korean ports on 18 or 19 occasions since August last year.



Resolution 2397 adopted by the UNSC last December states "member states shall seize, inspect and freeze any vessel in their ports" if there are grounds to believe the vessel was involved in activities or the transport of items prohibited by resolutions.



The government's stance is that investigations are ongoing, and it is too early to take measures such as seizing suspicious vessels.



"The government conducted inspections and did not find allegations of UNSC resolution violations," Foreign Ministry spokesman Noh Kyu-duk said in a briefing, Tuesday.




By Sandip Kumar Mishra





In 1988, American political scientist Robert Putnam propounded a very interesting two-level game theory in international relations. It is basically a political model of international conflict resolution.







The theory says that in any negotiation for conflict resolution, actors simultaneously negotiate with their counterparts (inter-state) as well as taking into consideration domestic political scenarios (intra-state). It's considered important to coordinate accomplishments at both levels.







A win-win at both levels is ideal and also possible but for this, visionary leadership is required. Such leaders articulate their objectives at both levels in a mutually enforcing way and achieve success.







There have even been some exceptional leaders who had the courage to face setbacks domestically but archive great success in resolving intractable inter-state conflicts.







In the case of the U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts to resolve the North Korean nuclear issue, the two-level game theory might be useful to comprehend the complicated process.







Trump's policy and behavior toward North Korea has been quite inconsistent and this had led to a situation in which progress and despair are defined, and redefined, by the U.S. president quite frequently.







Actually the definition of progress which helps in domestic politics appears to be more important for Trump than the actual resolution of the North Korean issue. Trump's tweets, formal statements and even actions indicate that apparently the U.S. has no long-term pro-active policy to denuclearize North Korea.







The Trump administration has been just reacting to North Korean and South Korean policies and initiatives, and unduly trying to claim others' achievements as his own. Furthermore, Trump has also been trying to gain political mileage by portraying small achievements as big steps forward.







This inconsistency in dealing with North Korea (inter-state level) must be understood in the context of his consistent search for an image (in domestic politics) which seeks to disagree, disown and denigrate all policies of the Obama administration and rely on superficial and populist policies.







It could be said that Trump is more concerned about his personal gain as well as his achievements in domestic politics than having a well-laid out plan to deal with North Korea.







His policy towards North Korea began with being tough in rhetoric and actions such as talking about "fire and fury" and "maximum pressure" because at that time, he had to show in domestic politics that previous administrations' policy of "strategic patience" vis-a-vis North Korean nuclear and missile programs was not appropriate.







It was claimed that North Korea has agreed to soften its approach and is ready to denuclearize only because of the tough policy of the Trump administration. Actually, it's being claimed that North Korea had no choice but to come to the negotiating table because of the U.S. strangulation strategy.







However, it's quite well known that the role of the South Korean administration and change in North Korean posture were, if not more, equally important to bring North Korea to talks.







Similarly, when the Trump administration agreed and decided to talk to North Korea, it did not appear sufficiently prepared about the new move and this has been seen as on the one hand Trump tried to reach out to North Korea through various meetings at different levels, including his own summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, while his foreign policy team remained dominated by hawks such as John Bolton and thus gave confusing signals to North Korea.







He sometimes claims that "great progress" has been made and thanks Kim Jong-un for it. But he also maintains that North Korea is an "unusual and extraordinary threat."







Actually, it's because Trump is less concerned about nuances of foreign policy and more interested in selling it in domestic politics, in particular to improve his own precarious position in the polls.







Trump is aware that among all the major steps his administration has taken both inside and outside the country, his handling of North Korea has got the highest popular support. The U.S. is also going to polls for the Senate and House of Representatives in November this year and Trump would like to use the North Korean issue for this.







However, it would be better if the Trump administration articulated a long-term pro-active plan to resolve the North Korean nuclear and missile issues without considering its instrumental role in American domestic politics.







It would necessarily need patience and sustained attempts. It might be counterproductive if the North Korean issue is being used only to get an edge in domestic politics and the personal aggrandizement of Donald Trump.







The sincerity of the Trump administration and building of trust are keys in dealing with North Korea. Thus, if the two-level game of the U.S. vis-a-vis North Korea remains lopsided, it may not be able to provide the desired results and rather derail the process.









The author is associate professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India. He could be reached at

.




Policymakers, corporate CEOs need to seek solutions together



Finance Minister Kim Dong-yeon has met with Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong. Kim's visit to Samsung's chip-making plant in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul, Monday, drew particular attention as it was the first one-on-one meeting between the government's top economic policymaker and the de facto chief of Korea's largest family-controlled conglomerate, or chaebol.



Kim stressed two things during the visit: First, Samsung should take the lead in chaebol reform by improving its ownership structure and stemming unfair business practices. Second, the global tech giant needs to spearhead innovation to create new growth engines. Vice Chairman Lee asked the government to relax regulations in the biotechnology and other sectors.



The Kim-Lee meeting came amid criticism about the weakening will of the Moon Jae-in administration to reform chaebol, amid an economic slowdown. Conscious of such skepticism, especially among progressives, Cheong Wa Dae had reportedly told Moon's economic czar "not to beg for corporate spending."



Such being the case, Kim made no specific requests concerning corporate spending and job creation. Nor did Lee announce any detailed plans on investment and employment. It is not desirable for economic policymakers to meet CEOs of private businesses and make demands that can affect their management. Such decisions should be left to corporate boards of directors.



That does not mean, however, economic officials and business leaders should avoid meeting each other. Bureaucrats need to meet the representatives of the business community more often to listen to their opinions on domestic and foreign business trends, including deregulation and industrial policies, and reflect their recommendations in policies.



Korea's economic outlook appears increasingly bleak. Investment has fallen for four consecutive months for the first time in 18 years, and job growth has stood at the 100,000-range for five months in a row. The U.S.-China trade war shows no signs of easing. All these trends require the government and businesses to get together more frequently to seek solutions.



If businesses feel forced to announce investment and employment plans after such meetings, however, the public will hardly be able to believe their spontaneity. However urgent the situation might be, it is desirable for government officials and business leaders to go with the flow.




By Lee Min-hyung





Seen above are rotor blades separated from an ill-fated Surion helicopter that crashed last month at a military airfield in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province. The accident left five soldiers aboard dead. / Yonhap
By Lee Seong-hyon





A nuclear love affair is no different from a human love affair. As the initial infatuation fizzles out, so is the psychological "high" that drives the courtship forward to the next level. It seems that's where Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un are stuck now. Doubts about denuclearization have begun to permeate the public sphere.



The current stalemate in the Kim-Trump relationship is not conducive to giving birth to a nuclear-free North Korea. So, this is a time when the couple could use some marriage counseling. And remember, it takes Dr. Love, Jesus and Kierkegaard to solve the problem.



Dr. Love is a welcome voice of wisdom. And according to Dr. Love, a feeling of dissatisfaction arising from a lack of satisfaction and excitement, mind you, is actually quite common for many couples. So, this is not something to be too alarmed about. Actually, this is a time to be cautious with those "alarmists" who sing a chorus that Kim and Trump will break up soon. They even argue that Trump should never have met Kim in the first place. Ouch!



The problem with the alarmists is that they always talk about why the relationship will not work. It's easier to diagnose the problem and difficult to offer a solution.



It's also not helpful to inflate the issue more than what it is. The issue is that Trump and Kim need to sort out "So, what's next?" after their maddening diplomatic intercourse in Singapore. The U.S. demands North Korea submit a list of nuclear facilities and a timetable for denuclearization. North Korea demands that the U.S. formally declare the end of the Korea War first, so as to "prove" Trump won't hurt Kim. Among couples, "who should make concessions first" is quite a common issue.



It's also not helpful to see the marriage as a public display of social status. Unfortunately, some people thought it was beneath the "dignity" of the U.S. superpower to sit down with a pariah leader from a poor country. These people see the Singapore summit as a "reward" to North Korea that the latter doesn't deserve. Ego undermines love.



It's also not helpful to dwell on your partner's past. But to many, North Korea is a hard to love. North Korea is hard to trust. Pyongyang has a track record of zigzagging on its promises, twisting words, and blaming others. In a relationship, it is manipulative, easy to get sulky and resentful, often turning incommunicado. Pompeo also said the U.S. is "clear-eyed" about North Korea's past.



For nearly the past 25 years of nuclear courtship with Washington, the "Kims" have had a history of committing to the holy promise of denuclearization, but indulging in the secret orgy of nuclear reproduction activities.



Now we have Kim III. Is he any different from the previous Kims? Frankly, we don't know. But remarks from those who met him personally, including Pompeo, establish some grounds to the proposition that North Korea under Kim III may be different. At least, we might as well test him.



But pessimism persists. "Being nice to Rocket Man hasn't worked in 25 years, why would it work now?" even Trump himself also twitted in October 2017. This is when we should turn to Jesus, who said, "Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9). Trump read this passage from the Bible and changed his mind. Perhaps.



It takes a tremendous mental leap of faith to have faith in North Korea and its publicly worded intent for denuclearization. And here comes Kierkegaard, the Danish philosopher. Trusting North Korea's Kim may be a challenging human task. It may therefore take Kierkegaard's "leap of faith" to believe him.



The irony of the "leap of faith," as put forward by the Danish philosopher, is that one should believe first so that one can have faith. This is the most difficult paradox to defend. Trump happens to be the first ever U.S. president who has decided to test this paradox.



Failed love hurts. It wounds people. Sometimes we hold onto grudges, refuse to forgive. But if Washington decides to test Kim III, it should love him like you've never been hurt. This is something absent.





Lee Seong-hyon (sunnybbsfs@gmail.com), Ph.D., is director, Center for Chinese Studies; and director, Department of Unification Strategy at Sejong Institute.


By Doug Bandow





When running for president, Donald Trump was no less critical of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia than he was of America's dependent Asian and European allies. It looked like bilateral relations would change.



But now President Trump appears to be working for the Saudi monarchy. He recently said he expects the Iranians to call him to make a deal, but we should hope not, lest the administration enshrine Saudi hegemony in the Middle East.



The kingdom deserved candidate Trump's scorn. It is a corrupt totalitarian state, long tied financially to terrorists, yet it treats U.S. soldiers as the royals' personal bodyguard.



Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates recalled meeting King Abdullah: "He wanted a full-scale attack on Iranian military targets, not just the nuclear sites." This supposed friend of America "was asking the United States to send its sons and daughters into a war with Iran in order to protect the Saudi position in the Gulf and the region, as if we were mercenaries."



When President Trump was elected it looked like the Saudis' free ride might be over. However, the president's first trip was to Riyadh, where he partied the night away while doing the "sword dance." Then he peered into the orb, the curious symbol of Saudi Arabia's new anti-radicalism center.



Given the president's reaction, some observers speculated that the Saudis had acquired the infamous Eye of Sauron after the destruction of Mordor. President Trump subsequently appeared to have fallen completely under Riyadh's spell.



Unfortunately, Saudi Arabia is a totalitarian state. There is no political or religious liberty, far less than in its infamous rival Iran.



Only recently has the crown prince relaxed some social controls. While simultaneously cracking down on critics of the monarchy, including women who campaigned against some of the policies he initiated. Politically, Saudi Arabia is now less free.



While claiming to combat corruption Mohammad bin Salman has spent lavishly on a yacht and chateau, and apparently art as well. Presumably short on cash, he arrested hundreds of the kingdom's elite and he initiated an extraordinary shakedown, demanding that those arrested sign over substantial assets to win their freedom.



What Riyadh does overseas should be of even greater concern to Washington, however. Over the years Saudi Arabia has spent some $100 billion to promote the extremist Wahhabist variant of Islam around the world, including in the U.S.



Saudi money and personnel long infused terrorist movements, most notably al-Qaida. Saudi Arabia had little concern when only Westerners seemed to be at risk. Now the kingdom purports to be a crusader against terrorism, criticizing Qatar because the latter underwrites critics of the monarchy, who the royals consider to be "terrorists."



Moreover, MbS, as the crown prince is known, has proved to be a reckless adventurer, ever-ready to destabilize countries, launch wars, brutalize civilians, underwrite tyranny, and commit any crime to enhance his nation's influence. The attack on Yemen, to return a puppet regime to power, may be Riyadh's most irresponsible act of late.



Saudi Arabia also backed radical Islamist insurgents in an attempt to overthrow Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, essentially the same strategy which turned disastrously wrong in both Iraq and Libya. Riyadh intervened militarily to support Bahrain's authoritarian, minority Sunni monarchy against the majority Shia population.



Yet the Trump administration apparently has anointed the monarchy as its agent. It is reminiscent of the bad ole' days of Iran's Shah. The U.S. helped install him  Iranians still remember the 1953 coup against democracy  but his arrogant and criminal reign led to his downfall, and the creation of the Islamist Republic.



There's no need for Washington to take sides between Iran and Saudi Arabia. However, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo essentially demanded the former's surrender: accept Saudi hegemony, disarm in the face of superior Saudi military force, abandon its few regional allies, and beg for Washington's and Riyadh's mercy. Why this favoritism toward the Saudi dictatorship?



The U.S. claims to fear Iranian dominance in the Middle East, but that neither threatens America  which is a superpower, if anyone has forgotten  nor is likely to. The Islamic Republic is beset with domestic economic and political difficulties. Its alleged foreign "empire" is made up of geopolitical dregs that no one else wants, while its Mideast adversaries are many.



Candidate Trump appeared to understand Saudi Arabia. President Trump acts like any other submissive royal retainer. Instead of campaigning to hand the Middle East over to the Saudi royals, the Trump administration should stand for America's and its allies' interests.





Doug Bandow (chessset@aol.com) is a senior fellow at the Cato Institute. A former special assistant to President Ronald Reagan, he is author of "Foreign Follies: America's New Global Empire."


By Baek Byung-yeul





Seen is a concept image for Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Note 9 smartphone. / Captured from Android Central
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Eighth Grade has won a lot of praise for depicting middle school in all its squirmy awkwardness. Perfect movie to help teens get through that time, right? But it's rated R, so they would have to -- oh no -- go to the movie with their parents.

A24, the studio behind the movie, is offering special free screenings Wednesday night -- where ratings won't be enforced. So now teens can check it out without (or with, you do you) their parents.

EIGHTH GRADE is rated R for four (4) F-words and some PG-13-level sex talk, all involving middle-schoolers. It's also full of positive messages for teens, especially girls. I think around 15 is probably a good age to see it, but I don't know your kid (probably). https://t.co/7jQZW61zsH  Eric D. Snider (@EricDSnider) August 6, 2018

Bo Burnham expressed his frustration with the R rating for a movie about middle school while encouraging kids to come check it out:

Since Eighth Grade is rated R and thats sort of stupid were doing free screenings in every state this Wednesday with no ratings enforced. Come watch, kids! https://t.co/iJi8nkmz0v  Bo Burnham (@boburnham) August 6, 2018

While they're having at least one screening in every state, the only theater in the L.A. area with this option is the Arclight Hollywood. They're screening the movie at 8 p.m. Wednesday.

BONUS for those checking out that screening -- director Bo Burnham and star Elsie Fisher will be doing a Q&A.

Here's more on how you, or a teen in your life, can go see the movie:

Pick up tickets starting one hour before showtime

They're available on a first-come, first-served basis

basis Go grab a popcorn and a soda -- you deserve it

Simple enough, though there's no telling how high the demand is going to be for the limited screening. But, looks like some theaters agree that middle-schoolers should be able to see it:

this is just to tell u all the little indie movie theater next to my job has a sign saying they won't card middle-schoolers who want to see eighth grade even tho it's rated r & i think that's cute  Devan Boyle (@devanboyle) August 6, 2018

If you can't make the Arclight screening, or you just want a sneak preview, we interviewed director Bo Burnham about the movie. Burnham and Fisher also did a Q&A at Twitter L.A. today:

See more details on screenings here, in Northern California, and elsewhere at this link .
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Going to the DMV can be its own personal trip to a really, really slooooow hell. That's hardly news.

But this week, several California lawmakers said wait times are officially out of control -- and they'll be investigating why.

"[Wait times have] exploded all across the state," Rep. Jim Patterson, R-Fresno, recently told KPCC's Take Two, adding that the agency "has done nothing with the resources they've been given."

Last year, lawmakers allocated millions of extra dollars to the DMV to help with the rollout of the new federal security guidelines called "Real ID." Starting in 2020, people who fly domestically will need a new compliant ID card.

The department was given an extra $16.6 million specifically to alleviate wait times at its field offices. But Patterson and others say those infamous waits have actually gotten worse.

Adventures in California: at the DMV an hour before open like I'm going on a camping trip. Line is already wrapped around the building. I've got water, a battery pack and my Switch. Let's do this.   Sol Brennan (they/them) (@wuffles) August 2, 2018

New iPhone release?



Nope ... DMV in California. pic.twitter.com/2khEYakB8E  Scott Stephenson (@deepgramscott) August 1, 2018

The department lists wait times on its website, but Patterson said the site can't be trusted.

On Monday, the estimated wait times at Southern California offices for people without appointments varied from an hour to more than four hours. Those who try to make an appointment to shorten their waits are stuck, too, with many offices full up for months.

"We believe that what is unfolding here is an upper-level management fiasco of the first order," said Patterson, who plans to call for an audit of the department this Wednesday at the next Joint Legislative Audit Committee.

In response to the delays, the DMV has sent 275 employees from headquarters to help triage the lines outside local field offices, the department's spokeswoman Jessica Gonzalez said.

"We understand that delays are extremely frustrating, and we are working hard to speed things up," Gonzalez said.

She added that the agency is working with state lawmakers and the California Department of Finance to speed up funding that would pay for 230 more employees and improve self-service terminals.

Meanwhile, Rep. Phil Ting, D-San Francisco, has scheduled a budget hearing on the matter for Tuesday.

News happens every day. Here at LAist, our goal is to cover the stories that matter to you and the community you live in. Now that we're part of KPCC, those stories (including this one you're on right now!) are made possible by generous people like you. Independent, local journalism isn't cheap, but with your support we can keep delivering it. Donate now.
Its one of the most recognizable images in aerospace: Highly specialized workers clad in gowns, hair nets and shoe coverings crawl over a one-of-a-kind satellite the size of a school bus. The months-long process is so delicate that even workers metal rings must be covered with a translucent tape to prevent static transfer.

Contrast that with how things are done at Planet Labs Inc. in San Franciscos South of Market neighborhood. Satellites no bigger than a loaf of bread are propped on work benches, tended by technicians wearing simple rubber gloves and light lab coats. Largely using commercially available tech components, they can crank out and test 25 of these pint-sized satellites in a week.

Befitting its location, the Earth-imaging companys approach is more akin to that of a tech start-up than a traditional aerospace firm. Giant satellites might cost north of $1 billion and last for a decade or more. Planet churns out satellites that cost a tiny fraction of that  how much, it wont say  with a life span of just two to three years.

Like Apple and Google do with their smartphones, Planet plans constant upgrades by beaming software updates to orbiting satellites and sending up new ones as needed.

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From the beginning, we had the notion that we didnt have to do space the same way it had been done before, said Mike Safyan, Planets vice president of launch and global ground station networks.

Small satellites are revolutionizing Earth imaging and communications, as well as the launch business. No fewer than three dozen rockets have been developed or are in the works to serve the anticipated boom in launch demand. Even the Pentagon is pondering how to incorporate tiny spacecraft into national security plans.

Engineers, left to right, Jacob Stern, Brent Amiano and Andrew Fisher test a satellite at one of the manufacturing and testing facilities of Planet, a San Francisco-based company that makes small satellites. (David Butow / For The Times)

Planet was ahead of the curve when a trio of former NASA scientists  Will Marshall, Robbie Schingler and Chris Boshuizen  founded the company in 2010. They set up shop in a Cupertino, Calif., house, clearing out excess equipment from the Burning Man festival and camping trips to make room for satellite components.

The outfit moved to a San Francisco office and added a greenhouse tent with a HEPA filter, recalls Safyan, a former NASA Ames Research Center aerospace engineer who joined in 2011. Planet launched its first Dove satellite in 2013. Two years later, it took over a 3,000-square-foot former textile manufacturing building on 9th Street in San Francisco.

In 2017, Planet launched 88 tiny Doves aboard the Indian Space Research Organizations PSLV rocket, followed five months later by 48 Doves on a Russian Soyuz. The company also acquired Googles Terra Bella small-satellite unit and its 7 SkySat satellites.

Planet sells the images taken by its satellite constellation to governments and companies in agriculture, finance and insurance. Farms can use the data to monitor crop health; oil and gas firms might want to keep an eye on new wells.

We felt the data we would be generating from these satellites has immense value, Safyan said. Now that we have the fleet in orbit, for a long time, weve been talking about what we can do with this data.

Engineer Brent Amiano runs tests on a satellite at Planets manufacturing and testing facilities in San Francisco. (David Butow / For The Times)

On a Thursday morning in July, some of the 23 members of the satellite manufacturing team clustered around test stands and other equipment in the companys new SoMa facility to check that all the equipment, networks and other processes were accurately calibrated.

Satellite parts arrive just as theyre needed, starting with printed circuit boards. Workers piece together and test sub-assemblies, such as antenna flaps. Parts are loaded onto bakers racks, organized by plastic labels. Technicians follow instructions from iPads.

Parts for an entire satellite can fit on just one or two racks.

All of that will be the right size to match the amount that were building or the maturity of the technology that were building, said Chester Gillmore, Planets vice president of manufacturing, decked out in his customary bowtie. None of this is built in stone.

There are reminders that the end user isnt your typical consumer. In an adjoining room, accessible only with a keycard, satellites go through a variety of tests to ensure they will survive the harsh environment of space, including shock tests with a large, clanging metallic piece of equipment Gillmore calls Thors hammer.

Technician Andrew Shacker works on components near the optical thermal vacuum chamber at Planets satellite manufacturing facility in San Francisco. (David Butow / For The Times)

Even parts that are off-the-shelf  such as the solid-state storage drives that are similar to what youd find in a computer  go through rigorous qualification processes.

The companys recent shift toward data analysis resulted in a round of layoffs. Planet said that reflected a restructuring  to focus on developing commercial products and building a successful business instead of meeting big technical challenges  rather than business problems. Though the company doesnt report financial results, it said sales last year were double those of 2016. It has raised more than $180 million in venture capital. Google became an investor last year.

A report from trade publication Space News said 38 jobs were cut. Planet wouldnt confirm that, but said the layoffs affected less than 10% of its global employee count. A source with knowledge of the situation said the company now has 450 employees.

The boom in small-satellite development has softened demand for some big birds, but isnt killing them off entirely. Larger satellites can beam back images with finer details of objects on the ground or in space because their cameras have larger apertures, said Mason Peck, associate professor in the mechanical and aerospace engineering department at Cornell University and former NASA chief technologist. They can also communicate data from farther away, in geostationary orbits, because they have more power.

NOAAs GOES-S next-generation weather satellite, for example, was launched to geostationary orbit in March and will be used to track wildfires and storm systems near the western U.S. The satellite, which weighs more than 11,000 pounds, arrived for launch in Florida aboard a C-5M cargo transport plane.

Planets Safyan said different missions dictate different requirements. Larger satellites often need to survive for 10 to 15 years in space, meaning they need more radiation protection, redundant systems and capabilities  all of which are less crucial to Planets missions, he said.

Really, were optimizing for different things, Safyan said. Its not like this ways better than that way.

samantha.masunaga@latimes.com

Twitter: @smasunaga
Height, width, depth. Every kind of object in the world  except one  can claim all three measurements.

Often, art doesnt measure up. Physical depth is missing from the likeness found in a painting, drawing, photograph or print. The flatness of the surface plane establishes a formidable if obvious obstacle. For centuries, artists have grappled with the impediment in myriad ways.

The exhibition 3D: Double Vision, currently at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, deftly traces one specific history of the pesky conundrum, beginning in the 1830s. That was the decade of two important, nearly simultaneous technical developments.

The camera was invented in 1839. And, barely a year before, so was the stereoscope, which creates an illusion of three dimensions.

A stereoscope is a device that juxtaposes two similar or identical images. Sometimes using lenses or mirrors and sometimes not, the device forces each of a viewers eyes to see only one of the paired pictures. The brain, discomfited by the related but dissonant signals being sent through the optic nerve, handily knits the discordant ocular inputs together.

Voila! An appearance of real objects occupying actual space forms in the minds eye. Order is resolved from visual chaos.

Joseph Jastrow, "Experiments in Visual Perception," circa 1905, stereographs. If seen through a stereoscope, the two pictures would form a single image in the mind's eye. LACMA

Britt Salvesen, LACMA curator of photography, prints and drawings, has assembled a captivating array of material produced since the mid-19th century by scientists, inventors, designers, engineers and, of course, artists  all keen on experimenting with or expanding 3-D visual effects. Shes organized the show into five coherent sections.

First is an introduction to the mechanics of binocular vision. Then come popular commercial applications dating to the Victorian era and to postwar America. (Remember the 1952 Robert Stack movie Bwana Devil, one of Hollywoods first 3-D movies?) Next is the art and technology movement of the 1960s, which coincided with the perceptual expansions of the psychedelic era. Finally, a sampling of more recent work accompanies the emergence of virtual reality in the digital age.

Along the way, in addition to scientific displays and commercial applications, there are photographs, videos, paintings, drawings and mixed-media sculptures by diverse artists. They range far and wide.

Lygia Clark altered swim goggles to discombobulate bodily perceptions. Painter Oskar Fischinger made a pair of geometric abstractions that, when stared at long enough, send triangles and disks floating in space. Man Ray affixed a lenticular photograph of a human eye to the arm of a ticking metronome, causing it perpetually to blink.

Simone Forti performed a holographic dance across a curved sheet of clear plexiglass; as you walk by, she pops up and then takes a graceful tumble. Thomas Ruff made monumental photographic prints of the surface of Mars  more than 8 feet tall  which burst into three dimensions when red and blue anaglyph glasses are donned; wittily, conspiratorial visions of a faked moon landing fabricated in Area 51 come to mind.

Thomas Ruff, "3D-ma.r.s.08," 2013, chromogenic print LACMA

Ken Jacobs, "The Surging Sea of Humanity," 2006, single channel video LACMA

Experimental filmmaker Ken Jacobs is among the few artists to use 3-D technology extensively. Here, putting an illusion of movement to haunting poetic effect, he transforms an 1895 stereograph of a prosperous Gilded Age crowd into a relentlessly Surging Sea of Humanity. The nearly 11-minute video, which wavers between hypnotic and nauseating, was made a dozen years ago but feels up to the minute. Civilization swells and drowns in thrilling and self-destructive waves.

Still, for all the stereoscopes, lenticular lenses and holographs, few sustained bodies of significant work will be found. Artistically, the show seems thin. Except in a few cases, such as Jacobs, if an artist chooses to employ 3-D technology, most often it appears to be a one-off, or else limited to a specific project.

There are fascinating sights to see, but 3D: Double Vision is mostly a gizmo show. Stations throughout the exhibition feature hands-on activities, including View-Master toys, popular in the 1950s and 1960s.

3-D imagery has popular appeal, but interest in it waxes and wanes. Moviegoers are putting down the colored glasses, Variety reported last spring in a story about a sharp 18% drop in revenues for 3-D movies. Lines at the local multiplex have dwindled since their 2010 peak, when Avatar was packing them in.

The short shelf life of novelty surely has something to do with it. (Kids between 12 and 17 are the biggest 3-D fans, Variety noted.) But, for art, so do other pressures: Commercial applications of 3-D technology dominated the first hundred years, with the big uptick in artists interest holding off until the 1960s.

Was the 60s boost a rebellion against formalist tyranny? Formalism claimed illusion was the enemy of painting, while the two-dimensional surface of a canvas got championed as the mediums most distinctive  and therefore most honorable  quality. The tricks of illusionism were scorned as the stuff of popular art, a deception with immoral overtones.

Tell an artist she absolutely, positively cannot do something, however, and you can be sure it will be done straightaway. Some will do it better than others, and several of the best 3-D works in the exhibition are satirical japes at the technique itself.

The cleverest: a 1991 Jim Shaw line drawing in red and blue, which shows an ex-con being killed in a drug deal gone wrong. Wearing 3-D glasses to get the comic strips volumetric effect, you read the text: In death, the world becomes 3 dimensional, the material world without time. So much for the morbid glories of double vision.

The slyest: a 1905 pair of stereo-photographs by Joseph Jastrow, an experimental psychologist. They show a woman head on, her hands raised and pawing the empty space in front of her that corresponds with the surface plane of the photograph  behind which she appears to be trapped, like a fly in amber.

"3D: Double Vision" includes commercial applications of the technology and works by artists. LACMA

The boldest: Sigmar Polkes 2007 painting The Illusionist, which assembles Victorian images of prestidigitation by assorted magicians, spiritualists and charlatans. Polke buried the picture, complete with paint drips, beneath a rippled surface of clear gel that mimics a lenticular lens  but actually accomplishes nothing. You move around to examine the big painting from every conceivable angle but fail to get any illusion of three dimensions at all. Only then do you begin to realize that youve been puckishly had.

A few omissions from the show are surprising. A pioneering 1968 Bruce Nauman hologram is discussed in the fine catalog but isnt in the show  especially odd since LACMA owns it. Mike Kelley is also omitted, perhaps because his extensive use of lenticular lightboxes relates more to illusions of lifelike motion than of depth.

In Western art history, illusionism has been a continuous (and often contentious) issue since the Renaissance  and longer, if you skip over the ethereal Middle Ages and land in ancient Greece and Rome. Techniques by which artistic representations are made to resemble real objects in actual space can have profound meaning  or they can be trifling amusements, ways to pass time. Appropriately, Double Vision has both.

As our tempestuous digital epoch proceeds, however, what might come of 3-D for art remains to be seen. So far, the answer appears to be not so much.

         

3D: Double Vision

Where: LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd., L.A.

When: Through March 31; closed Wednesdays

3D photography or stereoscopic photography is the art of capturing and displaying two slightly offset photographs to create three dimensional images. The 3D effect works because of ...

christopher.knight@latimes.com

Twitter: @KnightLAT
The new Isadora starring Russian ballerina Natalia Osipova is based on the life of Isadora Duncan, often called the mother of modern dance.

Its origin story, however, starts with Cinderella.

The fairy tale about a golden-hearted scullery maid who escapes her life of oppression by marrying a prince is a far cry from the biography of the free-spirited Duncan, who led a revolution on the dance stage.

Isadora Duncan in an undated image. The dancer died in 1927. UPI

Enter Osipova, 32, a principal dancer with the Royal Ballet in London and guest artist with American Ballet Theatre in New York, who has conquered most of the leading roles in the classical repertory. Except, it turns out, Cinderella.

Osipova adores the 1945 ballet score written by Sergei Prokofiev, so the ballerina approached Vladimir Varnava, a Russian choreographer with the St. Petersberg-based Mariinsky Theatre, and proposed that he create a production for her. An award-winning dancer in his own right, Varnava had known Osipova for years and was eager to work with her. But he wasnt sure he could come up with a Cinderella that would match or surpass the multitude of ballets that already exist. So he presented her with an unusual idea.

Vladimir called and asked me, What do you prefer, what do you like more: the story of Cinderella or the score? I told him right away I was more excited about the music than the story. And then he shared with me the idea of Isadora, to make a story based on her life and set it to the score of the Cinderella ballet.

Osipova had just moved into an apartment in London and, before Varnava called, she had hung up three pictures of Duncan. It was a sign, Osipova recalled thinking. This is my destiny. I should say yes. 

And she did. The dance-theater work premieres Friday through Sunday at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, which is co-producing it with Ardani Artists.

Veronika Part rehearses "Isadora" last week at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times

Varnava and the international cast of 20 dancers have been rehearsing in a Segerstrom studio since early July. (Among them was the recently retired ABT principal Veronika Part, who as the ballerina will be the only one wearing pointe shoes; other women will wear flat dance shoes or, in the case of Osipova, occasionally dance barefoot because Duncan was famous for that.)

During a recent break, the choreographer made it clear that he is not creating a documentary about Duncan, who was born in San Francisco in 1877 and whose life was filled with artistic glories as well as profound tragedies, including the drowning of her children and her own accidental strangulation in 1927.

Rather, Varnava said, he wants this piece to highlight the artistry that made Duncan so radical for her time, including her freedom of expression, her improvisation and her rejection of classicisms rules. The ballet does, however, include details of her personal life, including her brief marriage to Russian poet Sergei Yesenin.

For me the most important thing in this story is the conflict between great artist and very unhappy person, said Varnava, 30, who was a member of the Republic of Karelias opera house ballet company but whose primary training was in folk dance, not ballet.

They want to tell the specifics of Duncans creative life and her personal life, Osipova said. But I dont think people should expect that they will see me doing Isadora in movement. I dont look like Isadora. And my movement is not even close. The ballet is completely Vladimirs fantasy.

Choreographer Vladimir Varnava talks with Veronika Part at Segerstrom during rehearsal for "Isadora." Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times

Duncans life and art have inspired multiple theatrical productions, two alone at the Royal Ballet (Frederick Ashtons Five Brahms Waltzes in the Manner of Isadora Duncan in 1976 and Kenneth MacMillans 1981 Isadora), plus the 1968 movie starring Vanessa Redgrave. Varnava said he would have liked to have seen Maurice Bejarts 1976 Isadora for Bolshoi ballerina Maya Plisetskaya.

A dancer in great demand around the world, Osipova began her career at the Bolshoi as well in 2004 and rose to principal dancer in 2010. The very next year, though, she left to join the Mikhailovsky Ballet of St. Petersburg  a gutsy move  in part to have more freedom in choosing her repertory. She describes herself as an emotional performer who doesnt aim to be perfect in a technical sense, but instead considers every move and gesture as an expression of my heart, my spirit and my soul.

She has sought to work with contemporary choreographers such as Alexei Ratmansky and Arthur Pita at the same time that she was putting her stamp on the traditional parts (such as Giselle and Kitri in Don Quixote) that first brought her notice.

Isadora is divided into two acts but Cinderella has three, so Varnava is not using the entire score, which will be played live by the Mikhailovsky Orchestra. In the first act, Prokofievs music will be used as written; the second act will be slightly rearranged and will contain additions from the third act, Varnava said. He described the first act as biographical, while the second act takes place in a different world, an underworld, a wonderland, related to the then-newly established Soviet Union and Duncans life there. Isadora, like Cinderella, will have a new world in second act, Varnava said.

Osipova said shes been killing herself, dancing so much. But she is hoping her body and her enthusiasm will hold out for another 10 years. Will Isadora satisfy her compulsion to dance to Prokofievs signature music, or might she still try to appear in a fairy tale Cinderella?

She paused. Well see.

Natalia Osipova, left, watches as Vladimir Dorokhin (on his knees) and choreographer Vladimir Varnava go through a move during rehearsal for "Isadora." Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times

         

Isadora

Where: Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 1 p.m. Sunday

Tickets: $29-$169

See all of our latest arts news and reviews at latimes.com/arts.
On a frozen land in the final days of war, a German deserter steals the identity of a Nazi commander, attracting a band of ragged followers in a masquerade that reveals how power in the wrong hands can turn a man into a tyrant whose cruelty is surpassed only by his duplicity and cunning.

Robert Schwentkes new film, The Captain, is set during World War II, but its themes echo into a world that today is shaken by populists and demagogues. The violent tale of Willi Herold (Max Hubacher), who slips from scared grunt to calculating captain, is a morality lesson in how simple men can be twisted and corrupted, not so much by ideology, but by the fear they can instill in others.

The Captain, which opens Friday, examines Germanys past through a haunting prism. Based on a true story, Herolds exploits and justifications for brutality  and how easily men enlist in his charade  are a metaphor for how Adolf Hitler and other fanatics rose to power. Herolds desperation to stay alive turns him into a master improviser. He disguises his opportunism in a perverse nationalism that spirals into bloodshed and debauchery.

Todays European populists have fueled similar anti-immigrant sentiment and right-wing nationalism that was prevalent in 1930s Germany. Those movements, particularly in Poland and Hungary, along with President Trumps brand of Twitter populism, are re-imagining global alliances forged after WWII. The political overtones of The Captain have gained in relevance since the filmmaker first came across Herolds odyssey a decade ago.

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When we started shooting on set, we knew very well that this was echoing certain tendencies in todays politics, said Schwentke, who has directed Allegiant and Flightplan. Were faced with a new band of barbarians who flaunt democratic forms, who pay lip service to them, but then subvert them at every turn. He added: The film is about [Hitlers] National Socialism, but its also about human nature.

Shot in black and white, which gives it a scoured, foreboding tone, the movie follows Herold across a wintry land of suspicion and death. The uniform he steals transforms him. He assumes its power and gathers other misfits, as if a small army led by a sociopath. They mete out perverse justice at a prison camp for German deserters and trundle into a small town with violent and hallucinatory images that suggest the depravity of a nation that has too long clung to its delusions.

Those delusions are propelled by fear of the Fuhrers Nazi machine and the uncertainty of whats to come as the Soviet army presses in from the east. The country is falling apart; everyone seems in a vacuum with their sins, rationalizations and moral indemnities. In real life, Herold, who was accused of killing scores of his countrymen, was tried and executed for his murderous rampage. The film quotes from court transcripts in which one commander praises him:

Given the chaotic times, Herold did not behave that unreasonably. He displayed a no-nonsense military demeanor, but, ultimately, he did not harm the Wehrmacht [Germanys armed forces] Hes one spirited fellow.

Max Hubacher as Willi Herold, Milan Peschel as Freytag and Frederick Lau as Kipinski in The Captain.. (Music Box Films)

German cinema has long struggled with the ghosts of World War II. The country has built Holocaust memorials; students are taught the horrors imposed by their ancestors. Movies and TV series, though, have been reluctant in exploring collaboration and guilt. But a few have, including, Phoenix (2015), an examination of the intimacies and lies that sent a Jewish chanteuse to a concentration camp; Generation War (2013), a journey across battlefield horrors and ethical relativism for a generation that had not reconciled its past; and Death Is My Trade (1977), about a Nazi officer who takes command of a concentration camp.

But Schwentke said German cinema has rarely dealt with the national trauma and moral culpability that French director Louis Malle brought to bear in his pictures about the war, notably Au Revoir les Enfants. Based on Malles childhood, the 1987 film tells the story of persecution and betrayal as Jewish boys are taken from school by the Gestapo and sent to Auschwitz.

I also couldnt find anything in German literature that posed those very uncomfortable questions that result from a shift in point of view from the victims and heroes to the perpetrators, said Schwentke. I realized that was a certain set of conventions to German historical films dealing with World War II that over the years calcified into a rule book no one was breaking. I wanted to make a film that did not align itself with all these conventions.

Schwentkes decision to shoot in black and white arose over how to portray brutality without overwhelming the audience with the colors of violence.

Theres the anecdote, he said, about Scorsese shooting color test footage to Raging Bull and showing it to [British director] Michael Powell, who was possibly the greatest master in cinema, and Powell saw the color tests and said, You cant shoot this film in color. You have to shoot it in black and white, because nobody will be able to look past the blood and violence, and they wont understand that youre making a film about violence and not a violent film. That always stuck with me. It was an incredible, astute analysis of how audiences perceive violence.

Violence or the threat of it is incessant. In one scene, Herold sits at the prison camp with local Nazis. They are feasting and singing over the executions of deserters. They are drunk and rabid, and the celebration soon turns to more killing, as if a strange layer of hell had been ignited.

This is not meant to be a character study, said Schwentke. Its about a system. Its not about trying to psychologically define or explain why Herold did what he did. I asked myself that question, and I thought all answers would be too reductive and simplistic. What I really wanted was the audience to find the answers on their own.

See the most-read stories this hour 

Twitter: @JeffreyLAT

jeffrey.fleishman@latimes.com

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Before Black Lives Matter and I Cant Breathe became hashtags  before hashtags even existed  Spike Lee was making movies exploring social justice issues and savaging societal racism. BlacKkKlansman is his latest, and it is one of his best.

Several things are remarkable about this film, which won the Grand Jury Prize at this years Cannes Film Festival and stars a charismatic John David Washington in the mind-bending true story of an African American undercover policeman who became a card-carrying member of the Ku Klux Klan in 1978.

Perhaps most impressive is that the director, whos made more than 20 features and documentaries since his debut feature, 1986s Shes Gotta Have It, is not only still on fire but has found a story that allows him to be as excited and involved as he was when it all began.

And all that experience allows Lee to be as skilled a filmmaker as he is a committed polemicist, an artist as well as a provocateur who doesnt want us to get too comfortable even as we are entertained.

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The key to it all is that Lee, his writing partner Kevin Willmott plus earlier writers Charlie Wachtel and David Rabinowitz have found a way to make this decades-old story unnervingly relevant to what is going on in todays world.

The biggest thing we wanted, Lee said in an interview at Cannes, was to put stuff in the script, very strategically, so it would not be a period piece.

Lee and company have accomplished this, and they have done it very much his way. Working with longtime editor Barry Alexander Brown, the director casually but fearlessly stirs things up, balancing brutal satiric comedy, unapologetic social commentary, convincing jeopardy, even appealing romance.

Also in the mix are random shots of classic blaxploitation movie posters and a gorgeous black-is-beautiful montage shot in 35-millimeter by cinematographer Chayse Irvin. As Lee told Film Comment magazine, Its a Spike Lee joint. Its not just one thing.

Topher Grace stars as David Duke and Adam Driver as Flip Zimmerman in Spike Lees BlacKkKlansman. (David Lee / Focus Features)

At the heart of everything, obviously, is that strange true story. Though the films elements of violent jeopardy and romance are not present in Ron Stallworths autobiographical book (Black Klansman: Race, Hate and the Undercover Investigation of a Lifetime), the essential tale of a black man infiltrating the KKK is as boggling as it sounds.

Before the film gets to that, however, it sets the scene with two brief sequences: the celebrated Gone With the Wind crane shot of wounded Southern soldiers ending with a glimpse of the Confederate flag, and Alec Baldwin playing way-bigoted Dr. Kennebrew Beauregard filming a racist PSA talking about mongrel nations and our holy white Protestant values.

This is as good a place as any to mention that BlacKkKlansmans language is often as ugly and racist as you can imagine, maybe even worse than you can imagine. Having the worst of it spoken on the phone to Klan members by a black undercover policeman underlines the theme that racism is by definition as absurd and ridiculous as it is hateful.

When we meet Ron Stallworth  carefully adjusting his sizable Afro before entering the Colorado Springs, Colo., police station  the Klan is the furthest thing from his mind.

Rather, as played by Washington, who first acted for Lee as a child alongside father Denzel in Malcolm X, Stallworth is thinking of doing the right thing by being the first black officer on the Colorado Springs force.

Stallworth gets the job, but he chafes at rookie assignments such as the records room, where he has to stifle fury at white colleagues who refer to people of color as toads.

Then fate intervenes and Stallworth gets a special assignment monitoring a local speech given by firebrand Kwame Ture (Corey Hawkins), the former Stokely Carmichael.

As a result he meets Flip Zimmerman (Adam Driver), the cop who will become his undercover partner, and Patrice Dumas (Laura Harrier), the righteous woman of his dreams.

Spike Lee hopes BlacKkKlansman is a wake-up call for the Trump era 

That speech, based on Tures actual talks, is one of the scripts key then/now parallels. Hearing Ture say, We are being shot down in the streets like dogs by white racist cops, sounds frighteningly contemporary.

Bored by his job, Stallworth sees a notice advertising for the Klan in a local paper and on a whim calls the number (in real life, he wrote a note). Hes shocked when local Klan leader Walter Breachway (Ryan Eggold) answers the phone.

Because, as he tells the chief, he can speak the Kings English on demand, and because racist tirades come easily to him, Stallworth so impresses the Klan honcho that a face-to-face meeting prior to membership is suggested.

Obviously, Stallworth cant go himself, so the Jewish Zimmerman is assigned to pretend he is Stallworth and go in his place, which leads to confrontations with Breachways nasty associate Felix (Finnish actor Jasper Paakkonen), a virulent racist who suspects Flips ethnicity and is not happy about it.

As for Stallworth, his phone prowess leads him to a long-distance friendship with David Duke (Topher Grace), the Grand Wizard of the Klan himself, which in turn leads to all kinds of complications when Duke makes a visit to Colorado Springs.

While BlacKkKlansmans script periodically links today with back in the day, nothing prepares us for the impact of the films final section, which uses news video to detail the chaos and death that took place in Charlottesville, Va., almost exactly a year before the films release date.

Especially shocking in the context of what weve seen is video of the death of Heather Heyer, killed when a car rammed into counter-protesters at a Unite the Right rally, and the presence of the real David Duke talking insistently about taking America back. This battle is not over, Lee is telling us, not by a long shot.

In fact, the last thing viewers of BlacKkKlansman see, as audiences of Lees films have always seen, is the motto of his 40 Acres and a Mule production company: By Any Means Necessary. Though familiar, those words have never seemed so relevant, so to the point.

-------------------

BlacKkKlansman

Rating: R, for language throughout, including racial epithets, and for disturbing/violent material and some sexual references

Running time: 2 hours, 14 minutes

Playing: Opens Aug. 10 in general release

kenneth.turan@latimes.com

Twitter: @KennethTuran
While other festivals in the crowded fall circuit proudly tout their world premiere titles, the New York Film Festival prefers to cherry-pick from what others have to offer. And between Cannes, Sundance, Berlin, Venice, Telluride and Toronto, it has a particularly strong inventory to choose from this year.

Highlighting new work from Barry Jenkins to Claire Denis, the 2018 lineup, announced Tuesday, seems to perfectly encapsulate the NYFFs reputation for a purposefully curated boutique selection of arthouse faves laced with fresh names.

Partly a point of superstition and tradition, where a film premieres, and where it goes next, has recently become a more important part of a films overall strategy, in particular for awards season. And with the complete lineups of Canadas Toronto International Film Festival and Colorados secretive Telluride festival yet to be revealed, the NYFF announcement provides a few clues about certain films festival trajectory.

For example, the hotly anticipated Coen brothers title The Ballad of Buster Scruggs will apparently bypass Toronto and Telluride to make its North American premiere in New York, following a Venice bow.

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Its one of four prominent Netflix titles in New Yorks lineup, also including Tamara Jenkins marital drama Private Life, which premiered at Sundance, and the previously announced centerpiece screening of Alfonso Cuarons Roma, which will premiere in Venice and then play Toronto and, presumably, Telluride.

But Barry Jenkins If Beale Street Could Talk, adapted from the work of James Baldwin, will have its U.S. premiere in New York, following a world premiere in Toronto. That means the Moonlight filmmaker appears to be passing over his old stomping ground in Telluride this year (unless festivals are redefining the meaning of premiere, which would not be unprecedented).

Gong Minjeung and Ahn Jaehong in Grass, directed by Hong Sangsoo (Cinema Guild)

The 56th edition of the New York Film Festival is presented by the Film Society of Lincoln Center and this year runs Sept. 28Oct. 14. Previously announced titles include the opening night selection Yorgos Lanthimos The Favourite (which may play Telluride and Toronto) and the closing night pick Julian Schnabels At Eternitys Gate (which seems bound directly from Venice).

The NYFF lineup also includes a number of award winning titles from Cannes earlier this year, including the Palme dOr recipient Shoplifters from Hirokazu Kore-eda, and the Netflix acquisition Happy as Lazzaro from Alice Rohrwacher, which will have its North American premiere in New York. Jean-Luc Godards The Image Book, Pawel Pawlikowskis Cold War and Jafar Panahis Three Faces also head to New York with Cannes prizes to their name.

In addition to Barry Jenkins and the Coens, other filmmakers returning to the festival include Denis with High Life, Olivier Assayas with Non-Fiction, Hong Sangsoo with Grass and Hotel by the River, Frederick Wiseman with Monrovia, Indiana, Alex Ross Perry with Her Smell, Ulrich Kohler with In My Room, Lee Chang-dong with Burning, Jia Zhangke with Ash is Purest White and Christian Petzold with Transit.

Tamara Jenkins is set for her first NYFF, as are Paul Dano with Wildlife, Richard Billingham with RAY & LIZ, Louis Garrel with A Faithful Man, Dominga Sotomayor with Too Late to Die Young, Chrisophe Honore with Sorry Angel, Mariano Llinas with La Flor, Ying Liang with A Family Tour, Bi Gan with Long Days Journey Into Night and Ryusuke Hamaguchi with Asaki I & II.

Louis Garrel, who also directs, and Laetitia Casta in A Faithful Man. (Film Society of Lincoln Center)

In a statement, NYFF director and selection committee chair Kent Jones said, If I were pressed to choose one word to describe the films in this years Main Slate, it would be: bravery. These films were made all over the globe, by young filmmakers like Dominga Sotomayor and masters like Fred Wiseman, by artists of vastly different sensibilities from Claire Denis to the Coen Brothers, Jafar Panahi to Jean-Luc Godard. And the unifying thread is their bravery, the bravery needed to fight past the urge to commercialized smoothness and mediocrity that is always assuming new forms. Thats what makes every single title in this years Main Slate so precious, and so vital.

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Mark.Olsen@latimes.com

Twitter: @IndieFocus
Cliches abound in Carter, the WGN dramedy that pokes fun at TV detective tropes while simultaneously honoring them.

Harley Carter (Jerry OConnell) is famous for his role as Charlie Carter on the popular police detective series Call Carter. But after the actor has an embarrassing turn on the red carpet  Does this Malibu meltdown signal the end of Harleywood?! asks a fictional show that looks a lot like Access Hollywood  he escapes the scrutiny of Hollywood in his Canadian hometown of Bishop.

There he runs into his childhood friend Sam (Sydney Poitier Heartsong) who just happens to be a cop. Shes investigating a murder, and he cant help but slip back into his role. He uses his skills honed on set, which of course arent skills at all, to solve the crime.

Carter, which premieres Tuesday, is meant for the audiences of comedies such as Psych or Angie Tribeca. But this 10-episode series takes the Colombo-style spoof a step further by having its lead character view real-life crime through the lens of a TV detective.

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The shows hour-long episodes are generally pretty entertaining, thanks to the charm and timing of OConnell (Scream 2). Harleys identity is so entwined with that of his on-screen character that he actually believes he has the chops to fight crime off-camera. This delusional disconnect generates some of the shows funniest moments.

During a tense standoff where several guns are drawn, a police officer reveals herself to be on the wrong side of the law when she points her weapon at another officer: Dirty cop. Staple of the genre, Carter says to no one in particular.

Harley isnt the only one who confuses his fictional role with his real-life persona. Everywhere he goes in the small town, people call him Charlie and ask for his help solving cold cases or cover-ups. Much to the chagrin of Sam, he obliges.

The strong chemistry between Harley and Sam is another draw here. Theyre fun to watch, as is their third childhood friend, Dave (Kristian Bruun). While Sam fills the generic role of tough, no-nonsense police woman, Dave is Harleys on-the-street informant. You know, the skeezy underworld source required in every detective procedural. In the small town of Bishop, that means hes the guy who runs a sleepy coffee stand. But that doesnt stop him from having dirt on everyone and brandishing a pistol in his waistband.

And what detective series would be complete without the ornery, disapproving police chief? Here, the role goes to John Bourgeois.

Carter, which also stars Brenda Kamino (The Glass Castle) and Denis Akiyama (Pixels) as the couple who partially raised Harley, does infuse its lead character with more substance as the series progresses. It turns out he also has a tragic backstory beyond the red carpet faux pas that may keep him from returning to Hollywood.

Carter isnt a gag a minute, or super edgy or the TV comedy that will beat Veeps Emmy record. It is, however, an easy-to-watch satire with just the right balance of smart jokes for silly situations.

#####

Carter

Where: WGN America

When: 7 and 10 p.m. Tuesday

Rating: TV-14 (may be unsuitable for children under the age of 14)

lorraine.ali@latimes.com

@lorraineali
Its no secret that Mickey Mouse is turning 90 this year. But now ABC is getting around to revealing details about its forthcoming TV special that will honor everyones favorite shorts-wearing, bouncy-voiced rodent.

Previously announced in March, the two-hour prime-time special now has a title, Mickeys 90th Spectacular, and will unfold at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. ABC made the announcement Tuesday ahead of the networks showing at the Television Critics Assn. press tour in Beverly Hills to promote its programming slate.



For the record: An earlier version of this post incorrectly listed this years White House Correspondents Dinner telecast among producer Don Mischers credits. This post was originally published on Aug. 7 at 10 a.m. PT.

The TV event will air Nov. 4  two weeks before the anniversary of the big-screen debut of Walt Disneys beloved creation in the 1928 animated short film Steamboat Willie, which set in motion the cartoon characters standing as a pop culture icon and mascot of the Disney empire.

Mickeys 90th Spectacular will feature musical performances, tributes and never-before-seen short films of Walt Disneys beloved creation. The star-studded list of participants will be announced later, but the Disney-owned network promises a night featuring superstars from music, film and television.

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Veteran live-show producer Don Mischer, whose recent credits include the 68th Primetime Emmy Awards, will produce and direct the special.

Im delighted to be working on this magical event, Mischer said in a statement. Walt Disney was a major influence in my early life and actually inspired me to pursue my lifes work in television.

The TV special is part of a number of the Walt Disney Companys worldwide festivities to celebrate Mickeys milestone.

The most-read Entertainment stories this hour 

yvonne.villarreal@latimes.com

Twitter: @villarrealy
From the closing of a Los Angeles landmark to new dim sum in Las Vegas. Heres whats happening in our food and drink world.

Moving south

Restaurateur Piero Selvaggio has announced that he will close Valentino, his Santa Monica Italian restaurant, at the end of the year. The restaurant, credited with introducing Angelenos to authentic Italian ingredients such as prosciutto, balsamic vinegar and white truffles, opened on Pico Boulevard in 1972. The restaurants last night of service is Dec. 31. Selvaggio says he plans to open a new Italian restaurant in Newport Beach called Louies Newport, in October.

For the record: An earlier version of this post said the Newport Beach restaurant was called Louis at the Waterfront. The restaurant is named Louies Newport.

It wasnt a sudden decision but the conclusion of a big chapter, Selvaggio recently told The Times. He listed Valentino for sale in 2013, but took the restaurant off the market a couple of months later and decided to keep the restaurant, and introduce a new menu. It has been a long, difficult decision, mostly based on a restaurant that has been my American dream, my claim of fame, my mistress.

Selvaggio and Valentino helped usher in a new wave of Italian cooking in Los Angeles, and some of this citys best Italian chefs, including Angelo Auriana (Factory Kitchen) and Steve Samson (Sotto and Rossoblu) cooked in the Valentino kitchen. In the 80s and 90s, a table in Selvaggios dining room was one of the most coveted in the city.

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Selvaggio is hoping to take the heart of Valentino and bring it to Louies, where he will be managing partner. He says his friend and restaurateur Ron Salisbury (El Cholo, the Cannery) approached him with the idea to open a restaurant in the Newport Beach area. Louies is named after the late World War II veteran and Olympic runner Louis Zamperini, who was Salisburys babysitter. The restaurant has taken over the space formerly occupied by the Ritz restaurant.

At Louies, the emphasis will be a little more like an Italian steakhouse with great meats and fun pastas, said Selvaggio. Valentino, 3115 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, (310) 829- 4313, valentinosantamonica.com. Louies, 2801 Pacific Coast Highway, Newport Beach.

Vegas dim sum

The steamed shrimp dumpling from Tim Ho Wan. The dim sum restaurant will have a new location at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas in 2019. (Tim Ho Wan)

The Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas will open a location of Tim Ho Wan, the Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant, in 2019. The restaurant is part of the hotels $620-million renovation that includes new restaurants from chefs Bobby Flay, Michael Symon and Marc Vetri. The 5,055-square-foot restaurant will serve classic dim sum dishes such as its famous baked BBQ pork buns, steamed egg cake, deep fried spring rolls, siu mai and shrimp dumplings alongside dishes specifically created for the Las Vegas location. There are Tim Ho Wan restaurants in Southeast Asia, Taiwan, Macau and Australia. 4321 W. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, (702) 942-7777, www.palms.com.

Another slice

If youve tried the cacio e pepe pizza at Pizzana in Brentwood, you understand the hype. Pizzaiolo Daniele Uditi is making some of the most innovative Neapolitan-style pizzas in Los Angeles. And now hes announced that he and partners Candace and Charles Nelson of Sprinkles cupcakes and Caroline and Chris ODonnell (the actor and his wife) plan to open a second location of Pizzana in West Hollywood in early 2019. The restaurant will be located on Robertson Boulevard in the former Eds Coffee Shop. The West Hollywood Pizzana will serve antipasti and salads as well as the pizza Uditi is known for. And Nelson, who is responsible for the desserts at Pizzana, will oversee the restaurants dessert menu, with sweets such as olive oil chocolate cake and salted caramel panna cotta. Existing: 1172 San Vicente Blvd., Brentwood, (310) 481-7108, pizzana.com. Upcoming: 460 N. Robertson Blvd., West Hollywood.

Burger up

Chef Jason Harley, the man responsible for the excellent doughnuts and fried chicken at Birdies in downtown L.A., has opened a burger restaurant in South-Central called Baby Js Burgers. The menu consists of single or double cheeseburgers with classic, spicy or BBQ sauce; milkshakes; and cookies and brownies for dessert. While the menu is limited, Harley is serving a couple of off-the-menu items such as a vegan burger, made using a recipe he created for actress Pamela Anderson when he worked as her private chef. Harley is also making a CBD-infused matcha green tea ice cream shake. 1030 E. 25th St., Los Angeles, (213) 536-5080, www.babyjsburgers.com.

jenn.harris@latimes.com

Instagram: @Jenn_Harris_
Logging has long been among Californias most divisive environmental issues  and the controversy shows little chance of cooling as the Trump administration pushes new efforts to thin forests.

The federal government is moving to allow commercial logging of healthy green pine trees for the first time in decades in the Los Padres National Forest north of Los Angeles, a tactic the U.S. Forest Services says will reduce fire risk. Its an idea President Trump appeared to endorse in tweets inaccurately linking wildfire to state water management.

California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized, Trump tweeted Sunday. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear stop fire spreading!

The brunt of Trumps tweet attempts to tie the fires ravaging Northern California to complaints by members of the states Republican congressional delegation about environmental protections that have reduced water deliveries to San Joaquin Valley agriculture.

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California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 6, 2018

Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water - Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals.  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 6, 2018

Trumps suggestion was quickly disputed: That water is not used for firefighting, there is no shortage of water available to firefighters, and, generally speaking, water plays a relatively small role in wildland firefights, which focus primarily on fire breaks and fuel clearance.

Were having no problems as far as access to water supply, said Scott McClean, deputy chief of the California Department of Forest and Fire Protection. The problem is changing climate leading to more severe and destructive fires.

For the president to attempt to make political hay out of this disaster is unfortunate and unconscionable, said Rick Frank, professor of environmental practice at the UC Davis School of Law.

But Trumps call for tree-clearing is more than just an idle tweet.

The Trump administration is seeking to reopen some of the most sensitive and sought-after public lands in the state not just for timber production, but also for potential solar, wind, broadband infrastructure, mining, off-road vehicle and grazing uses.

When it comes to timber, the justification is fire prevention.

Environmental groups have long argued that the logging industry has used fire as an excuse to plunder forests, cutting big trees and leaving behind only small, unmarketable timber.

The timber industry, however, says that in order to remove flammable deadwood and stop the spread of insects to still-healthy trees, it needs greater access to more valuable live trees.

Active forest and rangeland management, including harvesting, grazing, prescribed burns and other fuels treatments, would make our forests healthier, less prone to severe fires and help them adapt to a hotter, drier climate, said Andrea Howell, a spokeswoman for Sierra Pacific Industry of Redding, Calif., one of the nations largest logging firms.

One way to help get the job done, industry advocates maintain, is to set aside what they describe as burdensome regulations that have curtailed timber harvesting in national forests.

That is exactly what the Trump administration is considering in Los Padres.

Bryant Baker, left, conservation drector with Los Padres Forest Watch, and Jim Lowery, a Frazier Park resident, walk in the Tecuya Ridge area in the Los Padres Forest near Frazier Park. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

The Forest Service plans to remove most of the sagebrush and cut down thousands of Jeffrey pine, Ponderosa pine and white fir trees across 2,800 acres it says are overgrown, unhealthy and vulnerable to drought and disease.

Officials said the plans include creation of a firebreak 12 miles long and up to half a mile wide along Tecuya Ridge, and removal of brush and trees, including marketable green pines in Cuddy Valley, without first conducting formal environmental impact reviews of the potential effect on habitats and wildlife such as the federally endangered California condor.

Our goal is to keep the ... forest healthy and increase public safety, said Gregory Thompson, who helps manage the Los Padres National Forest. We have plans for additional commercial logging projects.

Marketable logs would be hauled to the Sierra Forest Products sawmill near Porterville, about 90 miles to the north, he said.

The plans, which officials said may be approved later this month, have drawn criticism from environmental organizations including the Los Padres Forest Watch, the John Muir Project of Earth Island and the Center for Biological Diversity.

On a recent weekday, naturalist James Lowery, 73, of Frazier Mountain eyed a stand of 100-foot-tall Jeffrey pines shading a stretch of Tecayu Ridge that the Forest Service insists is overstocked and ailing.

To bureaucrats in Washington looking at a map, this area probably doesnt look ecologically significant, he said.

But ripping out sage and shrubs would eliminate habitat for ground-nesting birds, insects, reptiles and small mammals including the wood rats that spent generations building that nest over there, he said, nodding toward a pile of twigs and wood chips.

Without those creatures, there would be no reason for animals that feed on them  gray foxes, bobcats and mountain lions  to come here, he said. And its not hard to imagine how California condors that roost in surrounding snags would react to the rumble and roar of heavy machinery.

Lowery paused, weighing his words, and said, This forest would not recover in my lifetime from what the Forest Service likes to call fuel reduction and forest improvement projects.

Bryant Baker, conservation director with Los Padres Forest Watch, examines the variety of pine cones found in the mixed conifer forest in the Tecuya Ridge area. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Timber advocates such as Reps. Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) and Tom McClintock (R-Elk Grove) argue that activists and environmental laws are responsible for the steep decline in timber sales  and an increase in forest fires  throughout the West.

So far this year, an estimated 4,800 fires have burned about 550,000 acres, destroying more than 1,000 homes and killing eight people including four firefighters, authorities say.

Even after years of record-breaking temperatures and increasingly destructive blazes, more people are moving to rural communities surrounded by forests  putting more homes and lives at risk.

Since the early 1990s, the Forest Service has been under pressure from the environmental movement and the timber industry to come up with a strategy acceptable to both. Prompting that pressure was concern over the decline of the California spotted owl in Northern Californias forests.

Timber harvesting in Southern California has been largely restricted to post-fire thinning and salvage logging operations in and around alpine communities such as Idyllwild, in the San Jacinto Mountains, and Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains. Most of the marketable wood generated by those efforts was cut and sold as firewood.

Critics contend the proposed logging in the Los Padres is a signal that the balance of power in national forests is shifting under the Trump administration. Such projects could open the door to commercial logging in other public forests currently managed as watersheds rather than timberlands, such as the Angeles, San Bernardino and Cleveland national forests.

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue raised annual timber production targets for the Los Padres National Forest from 200,000 cubic feet of wood in 2017 to 400,000 cubic feet this year.

We are witnessing a historical change unfolding in the national forests in our own backyard, said Richard Halsey, founder of the nonprofit Chaparral Institute in Escondido, Calif. Timber was never part of the equation, until now.

Thompson said Halsey misses the point. Were trying to be proactive, he said, so that nature can take its course in a healthy and safe manner.

Butterflies are among many species found in the mixed conifer forest of the Tecuya Ridge area of the Los Padres Forest. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Ashley McConnell, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, said her agency plans to work with the Forest Service to help protect active California condor nest sites or roosting areas. Logging, she said, could benefit California condor habitat because the larger and older trees where condors typically roost are preserved.

To Bryant Baker, conservation director for Los Padres Forest Watch, that kind of talk adds kindling to one of the states most inflammatory issues.

Logging is a disruptive business, he said, even in the most responsible hands. Access to prime timber stands high in the Los Padres may require new roads that intrude on wilderness and disturb soil, causing erosion, choking streams and degrading water quality.

Converting these forests to slash piles and commercial logs in a place where California condors were brought back from the brink of extinction would be precedent-setting, he said. At stake is the fate of the handful of pine forests scattered across Southern Californias high country.

Times staff writer Bettina Boxall contributed to this report.

Evidence of woodpecker and bug species in the Tecuya Ridge area. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

louis.sahagun@latimes.com

@LouisSahagun
California is firing back at the Trump administration with a plan to safeguard the states greenhouse gas emissions rules from a proposed federal rollback.

A state Air Resources Board proposal released Tuesday would force automakers to meet Californias existing standards on car and truck pollution, even if weaker ones are adopted by the Trump administration.

California regulators said the clarification is a protective move intended to close a potential loophole automakers might use to elude compliance with tougher standards adopted jointly with the Obama administration.

Mary Nichols, who chairs the California Air Resources Board, said the changes make it clear to auto manufacturers that they will have to adhere to two different emissions standards: One for California and the dozen other states that follow its rules and another for the rest of the country.

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Its also an attempt by California to shore up its legal footing ahead of what is likely to be an extended court battle with the Trump administration. Last week the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration unveiled a plan to freeze fuel economy targets nationwide while moving to end Californias power to set its own more stringent standards and invalidate the states electric vehicle mandate.

This is just one in a series of steps that the state is taking to make sure it is attacking on every legal front imaginable, said Ann Carlson, a professor of environmental law at UCLA.

The move brings the U.S. one step closer to splitting its auto market in two. Automakers had asked the Trump administration to relax the rules, but dont want the logistical headache of building two different models of cars for red states and blue states.

EPA acting administrator Andrew Wheeler met with Nichols last month and has pledged to work in earnest with the state of California to find a solution, agency spokesman James Hewitt said.

Cars and trucks are the dominant source of pollution in California, and state regulators say easing emissions rules jeopardizes their ability to meet climate and air pollution targets, including federal smog-reduction deadlines and state mandates to slash greenhouse gas emissions 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. The Air Resources Board proposal says meeting those targets is crucial to combat the effects of climate change, including raging wildfires, coastal erosion, disruption of water supply  and continuing health threats from air pollution.

Weaker standards, left unaddressed, could slow progress fighting climate change, waste billions of gallons of gasoline, and cost consumer money on fuel, according to the proposal scheduled for consideration by the board on Sept. 27.

The standards California and its allies are fighting to keep aim to increase the fuel economy of cars and trucks to about 36 miles per gallon in real-world driving by 2025.

The Trump administrations plan would freeze mileage targets at the 2020 level of about 30 mpg in real-world driving. In doing so, the administration would undermine the federal governments single biggest action to slow climate change by increasing oil consumption, worsening air pollution and contributing to the rise of global temperatures.

Federal officials have argued for the rollback on traffic safety grounds, saying it would lower costs, in turn helping the auto industry sell more new vehicles with better safety features. But officials within the EPA have questioned whether the evidence behind that claim will hold up in court. Such arguments are contradicted by studies completed during the Obama years that found that stricter fuel standards could be achieved without sacrificing safety.

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers and the Assn. of Global Automakers, the industrys two lobbying groups, have not endorsed the Trump administrations proposal to freeze the standards in 2020 and are urging California and the federal government to negotiate a compromise.

Automakers support one national program with continued improvements in MPG that meet the needs of Americas drivers, the Auto Alliance tweeted Monday.

California and its allies are vowing to use every tool at their disposal to fight the Trump administrations rollback, arguing that they have authority under the Clean Air Act to keep the Obama-era standards in place. Gov. Jerry Brown has blasted the administrations plan as an assault on the health of Americans and a reckless scheme.

At the same time, both California and federal officials have suggested a deal could be struck.

Hewitt, the EPA spokesman, said the agency is looking forward to sitting down with California in the very near future to have a conversation about whether an agreement can reached.

Nichols said there were no meetings scheduled, but did not rule out some kind of relaxation of the standards, such as giving the auto industry more time to comply. What we would need to see is some additional measures that would give us confidence that were not going to be losing ground when it comes to greenhouse gases.

tony.barboza@latimes.com

@tonybarboza
The Montebello school district is in dire straits  at risk of insolvency and under apparent criminal investigation.

An outside audit in July found some teachers earning more than $200,000 a year, as well as improper raises, excess paid vacation time and inappropriate overtime, sick leave and car allowances.

Fixing the district and pinpointing blame could take time.

The auditors held a broad swath of district leadership responsible. But last month, a Los Angeles County civil jury specifically faulted the school board for firing two former superintendents who said they tried to root out corruption. The jury awarded Susanna Contreras Smith and Cleve Pell a combined $3.7 million.

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The districts financial problems are among the worst in L.A. County, perhaps second only to Inglewood, which the state took over. The county education office now has partial control over Montebello, which serves more than 26,000 students.

Montebello is a lesson in lack of accountability, said Alex Johnson, a member of that offices governing board.

Montebello officials apparently ran through a $30-million reserve during a time when the district could have been stabilizing its finances. Although the districts state funding had been hurt by declining enrollment, the school system was receiving more money per student thanks to a new funding formula aimed at helping districts with high numbers of low-income families. Voters also had passed a $300-million bond issue in 2016 to fix and modernize campuses.

The recent court case focused on 2015 and 2016, when Contreras Smith was superintendent and Pell, who had previously been superintendent, was chief financial and operations officer.

As laid out in court, Contreras Smith and Pell began to have concerns about Ruben J. Rojas, who joined Montebello Unified as chief business officer in June 2015.

Los Angeles County Supt. of Schools Debra Duardo raises concerns to the Montebello school board in July about serious problems in the education system. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

In September 2016, Pell wrote to the school board that an internal investigation had found that Rojas had forged his letters of recommendation and made false statements on his employment application. He urged the board to put the chief business officer on administrative leave.

Later that month, after the school board declined to take action, Contreras Smith used her own authority to place Rojas on leave, said her attorney, David M. Stein.

The next month, the school board reinstated Rojas and then placed Contreras Smith and Pell on leave. In November, the board fired the pair.

Matthew Umhofer, who represented Pell, argued that the school board wanted to protect Rojas because he was willing to steer business toward favored contractors, especially after voters passed a $300-million school bond in June 2016.

About the same time, the school board authorized or permitted the dismissals of two other parties who raised concerns: a longtime attorney for the school system and the districts auditing firm.

The school board eventually fired Rojas for undisclosed reasons in 2017 after the Los Cerritos Community News published articles about his job application.

In his testimony at the recent trial, Rojas, who could not be reached by phone or email, denied any impropriety and accused opposing attorneys of presenting evidence that was misleading and out of context. He said Contreras Smith and Pell had worked hard to recruit him to the district and characterized himself as a force for reform, who eventually became a threat to the old guard.

After the trial, the districts attorney, Daniel R. Shinoff, said the verdict was based on spin and innuendo, not evidence.

A district statement called the decision to part ways with Pell and Contreras Smith lawful and performance based given that the school system was on the verge of bankruptcy, its buildings in disrepair and test scores dropping. The statement mentioned the recent audits, saying that fraud, mismanagement and misappropriation of the districts funds and assets may have occurred during the tenure of the former superintendents.

Outside auditors did, in fact, allude to Pell as one party under suspicion for possible wrongdoing or mismanagement. But the recent audit  and one from last year  seemed to fault all or most of the senior leadership as well as the entire school board.

Pell, a 50-year district employee, said he felt personally vindicated by the jurys decision.

But Im still sad for the students, parents and teachers, he said. The people who did this to me are still in power, the contractors involved are still there, and the students, parents, and teachers still dont have the leadership the district needs to right the ship.

howard.blume@latimes.com

@howardblume
Its day 11 for Omar Estorga on the front lines of Californias firestorm.

Some nights, the captain and his crew have slept  sitting up  in the seats of their fire engine as the Carr fire raged. Other nights, theyve stayed at the base camp in Shasta County. On their days off, theyve snagged dorm rooms at Shasta College or, if theyre lucky, a hotel room when another fire crew has checked out.

As some 14,000 firefighters wrap up their second week battling more than a dozen destructive wildfires across the state, fatigue is setting but the fires show few signs of letting up.

To the south, the sprawling Mendocino Complex inferno on Monday became the largest fire ever recorded in California, burning more than 283,000 acres in just 11 days. The Ferguson fire has closed parts of Yosemite National Park indefinitely. Large swaths of the Sacramento Valley have been choked by smoke for days.

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While the Carr fire in Redding is easing after destroying more than 1,000 homes and killing seven people, new fires brought threats elsewhere. In the Cleveland National Forest, a fire exploded amid hot conditions in Southern California, quickly burning 4,000 acres and creating ominous smoke visible as far away as Avalon on Catalina Island. And in Stanislaus National Forest, a fast-moving fire burned down the historic Dardanelle Resort, which had stood for nearly 100 years.

For Estorga, the conditions mean he cant tell his family when hes coming home.

We cant give them a day were going to see them because we have no idea, said Estorga, a captain with the Los Angeles County Fire Department who made the 10-plus hour drive to Redding on July 28. We belong to state for 21 days ... They could possibly call us to go to the Mendocino fire or any new fire that breaks out between us and home.

(Jon Schleuss / Los Angeles Times)

Its been that kind of year on the California fire lines. Since October, the state has experienced unprecedented devastation as fires burned thousands of homes and killed more than 40 people in wine country. Two months later, the Thomas fire in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties became the largest fire in recorded state history.

But that record was shattered in just eight months, as a pair of fires burning on both sides of Clear Lake raced into the record books, fueled by extreme heat and bone-dry vegetation. Of the five largest wildfires in modern state history, four have occurred since 2012.

Its been pretty crazy  theyre calling this the new norm, Estorga said. In years past, there were one or two big fires a year. Now theyre doing three to four huge fires in a week.

Full coverage: Californias summer siege of wildfires 

The Ranch and River fires, which at 235,000 and 48,800 acres make up the stubborn complex fire, have frustrated firefighters as flames continue to leap across creeks, roads and bulldozer-cut fire lines. While the two blazes have not touched, they broke out an hour apart and fire officials have been treating them as one event.

Years of drought have created ripe conditions for large-scale wildfires that spread rapidly. The complex was only 30% contained by Monday night. If there were any silver lining, the Mendocino Complex fire is burning mostly in forest areas in three counties and largely away from communities. Fewer than 100 homes have been destroyed, and there have been no reported fatalities.

The Carr fire, where Estorga is stationed, has caused far more damage but is finally slowing down. Firefighters increased containment to 47% by Monday night. The blaze chewed through about 1,200 more acres Monday as crews continued to build up containment lines. That fire has proved to be the deadliest in the state this year, claiming the lives of four residents, a Redding firefighter, a private bulldozer operator and a Pacific Gas & Electric utility worker.

Rescue crews there have been repeatedly hamstrung by intense heat and difficult terrain. The fire jumped the Sacramento River more than a week ago and raced into subdivisions in western Redding. Officials said Monday that shifting winds, steep canyons and rocky terrain on the fires northern edge along the Shasta and Trinity county border have made it difficult to attack the flames on the ground.

Bulldozers have scraped in defensive lines miles to the north and east, far from the fires edge. With Trinity Lake providing a natural barrier that has slowed the fires advance to the northwest, crews will spend the next several days tightening that perimeter until they find a position to make a final stand, officials said.

While winds will be lighter over the next several days, firefighters are still facing blistering temperatures and bone-dry, smoky conditions.

The two kind of work against each other a little bit, said Robert Baruffaldi, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Sacramento.

During the first few days battling the Carr fire, Estorga said he couldnt see the sun as he and his team sifted through the devastation, logging addresses of destroyed homes while looking for bodies in the rubble. More recently, hes been digging out smoldering tree roots and cooling them  and other hot spots  with water.

Estorga and his crew members carry about 30 pounds of equipment each, plus a shovel or Pulaski hand tool, when hiking and hunting for hot spots in the searing heat.

In a strikingly ignorant tweet, Trump gets almost everything about California wildfires wrong 

Were constantly sweating, were constantly drinking water and Gatorade to try to hydrate ourselves, Estorga said. The problem is the terrain  its never a nice, mild climb. Its usually pretty steep.

Fire officials are also concerned about the growth of the Donnell fire, which has scorched more than 11,000 acres since it ignited last week in the Stanislaus National Forest. The fire began along the Stanislaus River and has triggered mandatory evacuations, but like several other blazes around the state, the fire is in steep terrain that has made containment efforts difficult, according to a news release issued by the U.S. Forest Service. The blaze was only 2% contained as of Monday.

As the fires raged in Northern California, meteorologists issued red flag warnings in the Los Angeles area, where temperatures will reach the triple digits in several neighborhoods and cities this week.

Woodland Hills could see a high of 108, while Santa Clarita and Burbank could all see the mercury rise above 100 before Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service. Farther north, other cities that could experience triple-digit heat are Ojai in Ventura County and Paso Robles in San Luis Obispo County.

alene.tchekmedyian@latimes.com | Twitter: @AleneTchek

james.queally@latimes | Twitter: @JamesQueallyLAT

joseph.serna@latimes.com | Twitter: @JosephSerna
Firefighters in Northern California were beginning to gain ground Tuesday against a record-breaking wildfire in Lake County, as firefighters across the state continued battling 18 blazes that have scorched more than 619,000 acres.

The Mendocino Complex fire, which became the largest wildfire in California history Monday night, had burned more than 292,000 acres as of Tuesday evening, officials said. The sprawling blaze, which is a combination of the Ranch and River fires in Lake County, has frustrated firefighters as it continues to leap natural and man-made barriers.

The Thomas fire, which scorched 281,000 acres in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties last year, had been the largest wildfire in state history before Monday night  a dubious distinction it held for just eight months.

(Jon Schleuss / Los Angeles Times)

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Prolonged drought and extreme heat have made California ripe for dangerous fires in recent months and years. Of the five largest wildfires in state history, four have occurred since 2012.

The relentless blazes have taken a toll on the men and women working the fire lines. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection spokesman Steve Kaufman, who was at the scene of the Mendocino Complex fire Tuesday morning, was also on the ground for the Thomas fire.

Its surreal. Its exhausting, he said. A lot of firefighters are going on 30-plus days fighting fires without going home.

The fire was only 34% contained as of Tuesday evening. Fire officials focused on protecting Lucerne and surrounding communities along Clear Lake where homes are in danger. Although the area is under mandatory evacuation, some residents havent left yet.

Its definitely a challenge because residents who live in these communities have been affected every year, Kaufman said, referring to fires that have plagued the area since 2015. You can tell it takes its toll on residents.

Farther north in Redding, firefighters were hoping favorable weather conditions Tuesday and Wednesday would help them beat back the deadly Carr fire, which has claimed seven lives.

The blaze has slowed in the last 48 hours but continues to challenge firefighters with unpredictable wind shifts and spot fires that jump defensive lines, incident commanders said at a briefing Tuesday morning.

The Carr fire has so far scorched 172,055 acres since a vehicle malfunction sparked it July 23 on Highway 299 near Whiskeytown Lake. More than 1,000 homes have been destroyed in the fire, which was at 47% containment Tuesday evening.

Although firefighters have gained ground, the fires push to the southwest has some officials concerned. Winds could still blow embers that might reignite brush and other fuel sources, and the northern portion of the blaze has continued to burn in rugged terrain where firefighters cannot attack the flames directly.

A high-pressure system has kept Redding broiling in the triple-digits in recent days, but it is also keeping a lid on the fire by trapping the smoke in the Sacramento Valley, meteorologists said. The stew of heat and low air quality might be unhealthy for residents and firefighters, but the conditions are also keeping the flames at bay, officials said.

1 / 53 A firefighter douses hot spots in the McVicker Canyon neighborhood of Lake Elsinore. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 53 Kenneth Leishmans home is pink from fire retardant in the McVicker Canyon neighborhood of Lake Elsinore. Leishman stayed to protect his house from the fire. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 53 A bird perches on a rock Saturday morning at a lookout on Ortega Highway. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 53 An air tanker drops fire retardant on a flare-up of the Holy fire on a mountain ridge above Lake Elsinore, Calif. Saturday. (Gina Ferazzi / Gina Ferazzi) 5 / 53 People watch as the Holy fire rages on a mountainside in Temescal Valley. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 53 Fire crews from Ventura County brace themselves as fire retardant falls on them after being dropped from the sky while they work to stop the progression of the Holy fire in Lake Elsinore. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 53 Helicopters make drops near homes threatened by the Holy fire in Lake Elsinore. (Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 53 As the sun rises above Lake Elsinore on Saturday morning, the overnight crew working to contain the Holy fire prepares to leave. Containment levels have continued to rise since the fire broke out Monday. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 9 / 53 The charred remains of vehicles lie along Ortega Highway on Saturday. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 53 Residents keep watch Friday night as the Holy fire burns out of control in the hillsides above Temescal Valley. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 53 Firefighters try to stop the progression of the Holy fire as it makes its way toward homes due to the strong evening winds from Lake Elsinore. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 12 / 53 Stephen Woodward looks towards the sky as helicopters make rounds from Lake Elsinore to the hillside in their fight against the Holy fire on Friday. (Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times) 13 / 53 Residents keep watch Friday night as the Holy fire burns out of control in the hillsides above Glen Ivy Hot Springs in Corona. (Gina Ferazzi / Los AngelesTimes) 14 / 53 Jeff Qualls stands on his roof to watch an air tanker drop fire retardant on flames from the Holy fire as it make its way down the hillside in Lake Elsinore, Calif. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 15 / 53 Fire retardant paints a Lakeland Village neighborhood pink in Lake Elsinore, Calif. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 16 / 53 Firefighters try to stop the progression of the Holy fire as it makes its way toward homes due to the strong evening winds in Lake Elsinore, Calif. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 17 / 53 An air tanker drops a load of water to save a home in Lake Elsinore, Calif. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) 18 / 53 A helicopter fighting the Holy fire drops water on flames at North Main Divide along Ortega Highway. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 19 / 53 Firefighters battle to save a home from a wall off flames as the Holy fire continues to burn out of control in Lake Elsinore, Calif. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) 20 / 53 Residents and law enforcement wear breathing mask to avoid the thick smoke created by Holy Fire in Lake Elsinore. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 21 / 53 Chief Mark Lamont, center, oversees firefighting operations at North Main Divide along Ortega Highway. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 22 / 53 Two dozers cut a fire line next to flames at North Main Divide along Ortega Highway. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 23 / 53 Afternoon winds fan flames close to a home north of Grand Avenue in Lake Elsinore, Calif. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) 24 / 53 Firefighter Jon Polansky rest after working an overnight shift at a lookout on Ortega Highway above Lake Elsinore. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 25 / 53 Kai Cano rest after working an overnight shift at lookout on Ortega Highway. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 26 / 53 Firefighters watch for flareups as they prevent the flames from the Holy fire from crossing the Ortega Highway in Lake Elsinore. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 27 / 53 Firefighters conduct a burn operation to remove fuel around homes on Grand Avenue as the Holy fire grows to more than 10,000 acres. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 28 / 53 Fire crews watch as a helicopter makes a water drop on a flareup as they prevent the Holy fire from crossing the Ortega Highway above Lake Elsinore. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 29 / 53 The Holy fire, which has grown to more than 10,000 acres, is reflected off the water of Lake Elsinore. (Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times) 30 / 53 Jeff Itschner, 43, sprays water on the bushes at his in-laws home on Amorose Street near Leach Canyon in Lake Elsinore. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 31 / 53 A helicopter makes a water drop on burning brush on a hill across from homes in Lake Elsinore. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 32 / 53 Manuel Trujillo packs his belongings as flames from the Holy fire approach his Lake Elsinore neighborhood. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 33 / 53 Firefighters struggle to keep the Holy fire from jumping Lincoln Street toward homes in Lake Elsinore. (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times) 34 / 53 Residents evacuate the 29000 block of Sandpiper Drive in Lake Elsinore as the Holy fire approaches homes. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 35 / 53 Flames come close to homes in the 29000 block of Sandpiper Drive in Lake Elsinore. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 36 / 53 Worried residents watch as flames advance toward their homes on Sandpiper Drive in Lake Elsinore. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 37 / 53 Stephanie Caceres packs her belongings into her car as the Holy fire approaches homes on Sandpiper Drive in Lake Elsinore. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 38 / 53 Cal Fires Mario Gonzalez keeps an eye on the Holy fire raging near homes in Leach Canyon. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 39 / 53 An air tanker fights the Holy fire, which forced more evacuations of neighborhoods in the Lake Elsinore area Wednesday. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 40 / 53 The Holy fire on Wednesday approaches Lake Elsinores McVicker Canyon neighborhood, which is under mandatory evacuation orders. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 41 / 53 Two men monitor the Holy fire from a rooftop as it approaches the McVicker Canyon neighborhood in Lake Elsinore. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 42 / 53 The Trabuco Canyon home of arson suspect Forrest Gordon Clark, 51, stands untouched amid charred remains in his neighborhood. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) 43 / 53 Chris ONeal, a video journalist from Laguna Niguel, is silhouetted by a smoke-obscured sun as a fire helicopter keeps an eye on the Holy fire approaching McVicker Canyon. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 44 / 53 The Holy fire reached very close to homes in a Lake Elsinore neighborhood forcing evacuation and deployment large air tankers. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 45 / 53 The Holy fire burns toward homes in a Lake Elsinore neighborhood, forcing evacuation orders and the deployment of large air tankers. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 46 / 53 Smoke from the Holy fire darkens the sky over the Glen Ivy Golf Club as the blaze burns on the mountain ridges around Corona. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 47 / 53 The Holy fire in the Cleveland National Forest pushed closer to some homes Wednesday, prompting a new round of mandatory evacuations. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 48 / 53 Lester and Blanca Fronk watch for planes fighting the Holy Fire in Lake Elsinore. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 49 / 53 Felipe Montiel fishes at Lake Elsinore as the Holy fire reflects across the water while burning in the Cleveland National Forest above homes in Lake Elsinore. (Los Angeles Times) 50 / 53 U.S. Forest Service fire crews make their way to the Holy fire, burning on mountain ridges in the Cleveland National Forest near Corona. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 51 / 53 Bob Tyler clears his driveway covered by ashes from Holy Fire falling on his neighborhood of 11000 block of Kingbird Drive in Corona. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) 52 / 53 A plane drops fire retardant on the Holy fire burning in Cleveland National Forest above a home in Lake Elsinore on Aug. 7. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 53 / 53 A man prepares to fish as smoke rises from the Holy fire in the Cleveland National Forest in Lake Elsinore on Aug. 6. (Mario Tama / Getty Images)

Even as firefighters are making progress on one end of the state, problems continue to spring up in Central and Southern California. A sudden ignition in Cleveland National Forest in Orange County quickly grew to 3,399 acres Monday, and the fire was visible from as far away as Santa Catalina Island, producing a towering plume of thick smoke. Authorities had initially estimated the Holy fires size to be 4,000 acres. By Tuesday night, it was 5% contained. Authorities ordered evacuations in Holy Jim Canyon, a Trabuco Canyon residence tract, and Blue Jay and Falcon campgrounds.

A fire that broke out in Stanislaus National Forest had grown to 13,000 acres as of Monday night and destroyed 235 structures, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The fire has been burning since Aug. 1 but grew significantly over the weekend.

Kaufman said his fellow firefighters have grown increasingly concerned about the abnormal behavior of the recent fires.

Were seeing fire behavior that firefighters have never seen in their careers, Kaufman said. They move faster, theyre more erratic, more unpredictable, we have more wind on our fires. And I dont remember in my career having this many civilian fatalities. Those things are alarming to us.

Meanwhile, near Yosemite National Park, weather conditions over the last few days have helped firefighters increase containment of the Ferguson fire, which has been burning for 26 days and caused the indefinite closure of Yosemite Valley.

As of Tuesday, the deadly wildfire had scorched 94,992 acres and was 43% contained.

The last couple of days have been good for us, Incident Commander Mark Von Tillow told reporters Tuesday afternoon.

Firefighters are working desperately to prevent the fire from moving northeast and into Yosemite National Park, where it can burn through dead trees and dry vegetation, essentially extending the life of the fire and producing a new set of problems for fire officials.

Its a critical piece, said Kelly Martin, chief of fire and aviation management at Yosemite National Park. Theres potential for long-term impact.

The Mariposa County Sheriffs Office said more than 200 homes remain under mandatory evacuation orders in Yosemite West and about 50 in Foresta.

Reyes-Velarde reported from Ukiah. Serna reported from Redding. Queally and Vives reported from Los Angeles.

alejandra.reyesvelarde@latimes.com

joseph.serna@latimes.com

james.queally@latimes.com

Follow @r_valejandra, @JosephSerna and @JamesQueallyLAT on Twitter for breaking news in California.

UPDATES:

9:25 p.m.: This post was updated with new fire figures.

1:40 p.m.: This post was updated with details on the Ferguson fire.

This article was originally published at 10:20 a.m.
The hilltop off Mountain Meadow Road in North Escondido looks like countless other deserted orchards in northern San Diego County, with ramshackle structures in withered avocado groves.

Members of the Escondido Creek Conservancy, however, see a sanctuary from urban sprawl, a clear route for wildlife passage and a future science education center. Theyve secured $6.8 million to purchase 693 acres east of Interstate 15 known as the Mountain Gate property. Its a key piece of the conservancys plan to assemble large areas of protected open space through the Escondido Creek watershed.

One of the reasons why were interested in this is the large landscape, said Ann Van Leer, executive director of the conservancy.

From a wildlife perspective, we know its very important to have big areas where big animals can roam, she said. We know we have mountain lions here. We have found their footprints. You can see if youre a bobcat, you can get through here pretty easily. But were trying to secure it so that 50 to 100 years from now, a bobcat can still get through.

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On ridges off of Mountain Meadow Road, between I-15 and North Broadway, the land includes a mix of chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitat, with coast live oaks and rare Engelmann oaks. Amid that are slivers of riparian wetland where willows and sycamores cling to seasonal streams. The granite boulders dotting the site have their own micro-climates and attract lizards, Van Leer said.

The site is one of two the conservancy is eyeing for conservation. The other is the 282-acre John Henry Ranch, near Lake Wohlford. Other recent additions to its patchwork of conservation land include El Cielo in Elfin Forest near Escondido, and Bottle Peak, east of Escondido.

Formed in 1991, the conservancy is a nonprofit land trust that has worked to preserve undeveloped land, with the goal of restoring and preserving open space in the watershed, from Lake Wohlford to San Elijo Lagoon. The nonprofit often joins local partners to make the purchases; this time, it teamed up with San Diego County and the U.S. Navy to buy the parcel.

For the county, the purchase would provide open space required for its Multiple Species Conservation Program, a regional plan to conserve habitat for sensitive plants and animals, according to a county staff report. The county has already bought nearly 21,000 acres of open space in southern San Diego County, and is seeking properties in the eastern and northern parts of the county, said Jessica Geiszler, marketing and public outreach manager for the county Parks and Recreation Department.

The goal is to create the largest urban and suburban preserve in the county, creating corridors for more than 85 native plant and animal species, Geiszler said. With that comes the goal of trying to promote safe development in less sensitive habitats.

When the sale is finalized, the county will evaluate the habitat and wildlife, as well as existing trails and roads, to decide which areas may be open to the public.

We want to always find a way to get people to use and appreciate parks, she said. But we certainly want to make sure were not interrupting anything thats happening in the natural world out there.

The Navy, in turn, would get environmental mitigation credits to offset habitat damage caused by training maneuvers on Camp Pendleton. Its role in the purchase falls under the Department of Defenses Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program, which alleviates restrictions on training operations at the base by securing conservation easements elsewhere, according to a statement from Carl Redding, communications director for the Marine base.

There are 19 endangered species on Camp Pendleton, Redding said. We manage them while providing the training areas needed to prepare Marines to accomplish their mission. The REPI program, and the support of organizations like the Escondido Creek Conservatory, make it possible to be good stewards of the environment while accomplishing our mission to prepare Marines to deploy.

The Navys contribution toward the purchase is $3.675 million, the countys is $2.899 million, and the conservancy will pay $225,675. The nonprofit has raised $196,642 through 457 separate donations, ranging from $3 from an individual to $54,070 from Friends of Daley Ranch, and continues to raise funds for the purchase, Van Leer said.

Although its kicking in the smallest amount, the conservancy is coordinating the acquisition through a complex land transaction that will deed the land first to the nonprofit and then to the county, with conditions attached to prevent development. The conservancy will also manage the property and retain ownership of 23 acres of the most degraded land.

Here, atop the ridgeline, rows of desiccated avocado trees surround several agricultural structures where workers used to plant, pick and pack the produce. Many trees are limbed down to the trunks, but a few still produce stunted fruit, even without irrigation. In the remnants of a packing shed, a cracked slab of concrete lies under part of a corrugated steel roof. Its next to a nearly drained agricultural pond, filled with a few inches of murky water.

This is where the conservancy hopes to establish an environmental education center, but theres a lot of work ahead, Van Leer acknowledged. The organization is just starting to evaluate the site to find out whats there and what needs to be done. The structures must be repaired or removed, along with any underground fuel tanks. The parched avocado trees pose a fire hazard, so theyll have to clear those out.

Once the site is clean and safe, the conservancy intends to open it to middle and high school students for research projects. For instance, Van Leer said, classes could do soil testing, investigate reptile communities around boulders, or draw transects to study native plant growth.

Its about as degraded as it could be, she said of the land. So you get to see it reborn over time.

The San Diego Board of Supervisors tentatively approved the purchase, and will finalize that vote on Sept. 12. Conservancy officials hope to close escrow on the property by the end of September.

This is more complicated than anything the conservancy has done, Van Leer said. But when a big property is available for conservation, you buy. ... It comes with its own baggage, and well have to sort through it. But it could be pretty darn cool.

Brennan writes for the San Diego Union-Tribune.
A Los Angeles County man who spent nearly 11 minutes unconscious on a stretch of track in Boyle Heights before being struck by a Gold Line train has sued the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, alleging that his life-altering injuries were preventable.

While waiting for a train at the Soto station in May, Patrick Chammas, 30, fell off the platform, struck his head, landed on the tracks and lost consciousness, according to a lawsuit filed Friday in Los Angeles County Superior Court.

Chammas spent 11 minutes lying unconscious on the tracks, apparently unnoticed, before a train pulled into the station and ran over him, his attorney said.

A human being should not be able to be on the tracks unnoticed for almost 11 minutes in a modern subway station, said Matthew McNicholas, Chammas attorney. Its an entirely preventable accident, and it never should have happened.

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Both of Chammas legs were amputated, and he will face costs in the multimillions for prosthetic limbs, McNicholas said. Chammas also received a brain injury that changed his lifes course, he said.

Metro spokesman Jose Ubaldo said the agency would not comment on pending litigation.

Chammas was wearing light-colored clothing when he fell, and landed perpendicular to the tracks.

Its possible that your eye could play a trick and not see anything on the tracks if he were lying parallel to the tracks, McNicholas said. But he was perpendicular to the tracks, in an area thats lit in the station.

McNicholas said that footage from the camera inside the trains cab shows the operator rolling his head on his shoulders in the moments before the collision, as if to stretch or shake off fatigue.

The train stopped about 50 feet beyond Chammas body, McNicholas said. The operator could have prevented the accident if he had started braking one or two seconds earlier, he said.

The Gold Line Soto station does not have a barrier to separate the platform from the tracks, which would prevent passengers from falling. That design constitutes a dangerous condition that the agency should have fixed years ago, the lawsuit said.

Metro apparently did not have technology in use to alert officials when someone stepped or fell onto the tracks, McNicholas said.

Theres no monitoring of incursion on the tracks, and theres no monitoring of the tracks themselves, and youve got an operator who may not have been paying attention, McNicholas said. This was almost a conspiracy of horrible factors that had to align.

laura.nelson@latimes.com

For more transportation news, follow @laura_nelson on Twitter.
The West Hollywood City Council unanimously approved a resolution Monday seeking to remove President Trumps star from the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The resolution urges the city of Los Angeles -- where the star is located -- and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to remove the marker due to [Trumps] disturbing treatment of women and other actions.

The vote is largely symbolic. The West Hollywood City Council has no authority over the Walk of Fame, and in the past, the Chamber of Commerce has stood firm against calls for star removal. But West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tem John DAmico, who put forth the resolution, said he felt a responsibility to speak out against maintaining the monument to fame.

The message this sends men and women who come to Hollywood to launch careers in the entertainment industry is not a great one, DAmico told the Times, given how Donald Trump behaves.

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A staff report makes several other arguments for removing the star, among them Trumps treatment of women, the separation of children from their parents at the U.S. border and denial of findings from the United States intelligence community regarding Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

Trumps star on Hollywood Boulevard near Highland Avenue has become a popular target for vandalism. In October 2016, a man was caught on video attacking the star with a sledgehammer. And in late July, the marker was annihilated by a pickax-wielding Austin Mikel Clay, 24, who promptly turned himself in to police.

DAmico said that after this most recent incident, he wrote to the city of Los Angeles and the Chamber of Commerce and asked them to not replace the star.

It has since been repaired. DAmico said he doesnt support the destruction of public property, but feels that keeping the star reflects poorly on Los Angeles and the entertainment industry.

I dont like the idea that something of that significance is telling people that if you behave like our president, you get to have a star on Hollywood Boulevard, DAmico said. Having a star is a privilege.

Meanwhile, he said, there are women and people of color who have not received the honor because of systemic racism and gender inequity.

Trump received his star in 2007 for his work as producer of the Miss Universe pageant and the TV reality show The Apprentice.

Similar calls to remove Trumps star were made when the president characterized Mexican immigrants as rapists and criminals during his presidential campaign.

When activists called for the removal of Bill Cosbys star from the Walk of Fame in 2015 amid numerous allegations of sexual assault, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce refused.

Once a star has been added to the walk, it is considered a part of the historic fabric of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, said Leron Gubler, the president and chief executive of the chamber. Because of this, we have never removed a star from the walk.

DAmico said that given precedent, he doesnt expect the resolution to spur immediate action by the city or the Chamber of Commerce. But he hopes it will, at the very least, spark dialogue around who qualifies for the Walk of Fame. He pointed to the national movement to remove Confederate statues, and universities stripping names from buildings originally dedicated to those with sordid pasts.

I see this as a nudge in the right direction, DAmico said.

Councilwoman Lindsey Horvath noted that the West Hollywood City Council has a long history of passing politically oriented resolutions. West Hollywood was the first city to formally oppose apartheid in South Africa in the 1980s, and has taken positions against traveling to cities and states that enact anti-LGBTQ legislation.

These issues may be beyond our borders, Horvath said, But they are certainly within our values.

UPDATES:

10:35 a.m.: This article was updated throughout with staff reporting.

The article was originally published at 7:40 a.m.
Paul Laxalt, the son of Basque immigrants who rose to political power as a Nevada governor, U.S. senator and close ally to Ronald Reagan, has died. He was 96.

Laxalt died Monday at a healthcare facility in Virginia, according to the public relations firm the Ferraro Group.

The conservative Republican had a storied political career, including a brief run for president in 1987. But he described that bid as the four most miserable months of my life, and in a 2000 interview with the Associated Press said he was happy to be out of politics.

In the interview, which focused on a memoir he wrote, Laxalt said he wasnt trying to compete with his brother, the late, award-winning author Robert Laxalt, and planned to hang on to my day work.

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Roberts writing included Sweet Promised Land, his classic story about the Laxalts father, a Basque who left the Pyrenees in 1906 to herd sheep in the American West.

Paul Laxalts memoir told of his youth and rapid rise to political prominence in Nevada, his years as a U.S. senator, Reagan confidante, presidential aspirant and, finally, legal advisor and lobbyist.

He refused to write an insiders kiss and tell account of the Reagan years, and said he wouldnt retire on proceeds from the memoir because it avoided a salable mix of gossip, sex or scandal.

Laxalts successes in the political realm fit right into old-fashioned, log cabin American tradition.

Born in Reno and raised in Carson City, Laxalt first learned the Basque language of his immigrant parents. But once he learned English, he got an earful at the small hotel-restaurant his parents ran on Carson Citys main street: lots of political talk, including bourbon-lubricated speeches from top elected officials who would show up for dinner and drinks.

After surviving horrific World War II combat duty in the Philippines, Laxalt married Jackie Ross and went to law school. He returned to Carson City and practiced law with Ross father, who later became a federal judge. He started his political career by getting elected district attorney in 1954.

Laxalt won his first statewide race, for lieutenant governor, in 1962. He lost a U.S. Senate race in 1964, but bounced back by winning the governors race in 1966.

Not bad for a Basque sheepherders kid, Laxalt said.

As Nevada governor, Laxalt was credited with repairing damaged ties between state and federal governments over Nevadas gambling industry. He had numerous phone conversations with eccentric billionaire Howard Hughes, encouraging Hughes casino acquisitions that helped to rid Las Vegas of mob influences.

Laxalt also helped to launch the states community college system, first medical school and Lake Tahoe preservation efforts.

After one term as governor, Laxalt left politics and joined his family in a trouble-plagued hotel-casino venture.

The venture led to a bitter libel lawsuit against the Sacramento Bee over stories about the familys Ormsby House hotel-casino.

Laxalt blamed the Bee for the suicide  one day before the lawsuit was settled  of his brother Peters ex-wife, who had been interviewed by the paper.

Laxalts marriage to his first wife, with whom he had raised six children, ended in divorce in 1972. He married Carol Wilson in 1976.

Laxalt returned to politics by winning a U.S. Senate seat in 1974, defeating then-Lt. Gov. Harry Reid. When Laxalt retired after two terms in 1987, he had become one of the most popular figures in Nevadas political history.

Paul Laxalt was the definition of what a leader should be: Kind, thoughtful and eager to extend a hand in friendship, regardless of political affiliation, Reid, a Democrat who served more than three decades in Congress, said in a statement Monday. His legacy is secured as one of the finest leaders Nevada has ever known.

In Washington, Laxalt was one of Reagans closest and most trusted friends, his link to the Senate and his national campaign chairman, and general chairman of the Republican Party.

One of Laxalts grandchildren, Adam Laxalt, is the current attorney general in Nevada and the Republican gubernatorial candidate. In a statement, he said his grandfather never lost sight of who he was or where he came from and was his ultimate role model.

He was the embodiment of the American dream, a pillar of the greatest generation, and he represented all that is best in American politics, he said.
The Trump administration on Tuesday urged Canada and Saudi Arabia to settle an escalating diplomatic fight but avoided voicing support for the womens rights activists whose jailing is at the heart of the dispute.

Both sides need to resolve this diplomatically together; we cant do it for them, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said.

Nauert said the Trump administration stands for human liberties and due process but she refused to side with Canada or condemn Saudi Arabias arrest of the activists.

Both Saudi Arabia and Canada are close partners to Washington, she said, and insisted the United States has a regular dialogue, albeit a mostly private one, with the government in Riyadh about human rights.

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Past U.S. administrations sometimes criticized the ultra-conservative kingdoms human rights record. But President Trump has courted a close friendship with King Salman and his heir apparent, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Trump also has sharply criticized Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a spat over trade tariffs.

The Canadian government, in a series of tweets over the weekend, strongly condemned the recent arrest by Saudi authorities of Samar Badawi, a prominent womens rights activist, and others.

Badawi is the sister of writer Raif Badawi, who has been in a Saudi prison since 2012 and was publicly lashed for criticizing Saudi clerics in a blog that he founded.

In its criticism, Canada expressed concern for the activists and urged Saudi Arabia to release them immediately.

Riyadh was furious, accusing Ottawa of interfering in its domestic affairs. In response, the Saudis expelled the Canadian ambassador, recalled its own ambassador from Ottawa, and froze all new trade and investment with Canada.

Saudi Arabia also said it was suspending educational exchange programs with Canada and canceling flights to Toronto by the state airline Saudia.

But Canadas foreign minister remained firm.

Canada will always stand up for human rights in Canada and around the world, Chrystia Freeland said, and womens rights are human rights.

Saudi Arabia is particularly sensitive to outside criticism at a time when Prince Mohammed has sought to project a less radical image. He has eased some highly restrictive social rules but hasnt expanded freedom in the political sphere.

This summer, he lifted a ban on women driving in the kingdom but also launched a crackdown on civil society activists, including several womens rights defenders.

tracy.wilkinson@latimes.com

For more on international affairs, follow @TracyKWilkinson on Twitter
For more than a decade, tech companies have built massive social media platforms on a simple principle: Take the power of publishing that was long reserved for traditional outlets like newspapers and television stations, and give it to everyone, without censorship.

But that era of idealism appears to be over, as some of Silicon Valleys titans acknowledge that their services have become breeding grounds for foreign espionage, white nationalism and conspiracy mongering. Reluctantly, the companies have taken on a 20th-century role: gatekeeping.

On Monday, Apple, Facebook, YouTube and Spotify kicked prominent conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and his popular Infowars outlet off their services after years of mounting public pressure for the media giants to take more responsibility for the content that appears on their wide-open platforms.

Since the 2016 election of President Trump, tech companies have responded to lawmakers and activists, and taken steps to identify and remove accounts linked to white nationalists who grew emboldened by Trumps campaign and Russian hackers who federal officials say aided his election.

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But the move against Jones  a Trump supporter whose impassioned paranoia has drawn millions of followers  marks a clear escalation in Silicon Valleys attempt to clean up its mess.

Facebook said in a statement that it took down four Jones-related pages not for spreading fake news through conspiracy theories but for repeated violations for glorifying violence, which violates our graphic violence policy, and using dehumanizing language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies.

YouTube explained its action in similar, if more legalistic, terms.

All users agree to comply with our Terms of Service and Community Guidelines when they sign up to use YouTube, a spokesman for the service said in a statement. When users violate these policies repeatedly, like our policies against hate speech and harassment or our terms prohibiting circumvention of our enforcement measures, we terminate their accounts.

But to Jones and his supporters, there was another way to describe what had just happened to him: liberal censorship.

Now, who will stand against Tyranny and who will stand for free speech? Jones wrote on Twitter, which has said he has not broken any of its rules and can remain on its service. Were all Alex Jones now.

Jones has been a controversial figure for decades, and few personalities have benefited more from the way that Silicon Valley has shifted publishing power from traditional media into the hands of everyday Americans.

Part ringmaster and part libertarian activist, Jones is known for animated tirades alleging that the Federal Emergency Management Agency wanted to put Americans into concentration camps; that the 2015 Jade Helm military exercises in Texas were actually preparations for the Homeland Eradication of Local Militants; and, most notoriously, that the 2012 Newtown, Conn., mass shooting at an elementary school was an elaborate hoax.

His claims have drawn multiple defamation lawsuits, including some from the parents of victims at the Sandy Hook Elementary School, who say they have been harassed by truthers suggesting the massacre never happened and that the families are feigning their grief.

But Jones following on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter only grew, particularly among the right wing.

In 2015, he interviewed then-candidate Trump on Infowars during which Trump praised Jones amazing reputation, and Jones responded that my audience, 90% of them, they support you.

Trump consultant Roger Stone later received his own program under the Infowars banner.

After Trump ascended to the White House, it became harder to dismiss Jones as a fringe figure. With nearly 2.5 million subscribers to his YouTube channel, he was competing with, and in some cases surpassing, the mainstream news outlets that had previously ignored him.

The sudden bans signal that the political winds have shifted for tech companies that for years had profited from Jones presence on their services.

The platforms have to do a far better job of detecting hateful conduct proactively and taking it down conclusively and quickly, said Dipayan Ghosh, a fellow at Harvard Kennedy Schools Shorenstein Center and a former privacy and public policy advisor at Facebook. The integrity of our political system will continue to be at risk if they do not.

The democratizing of media is not necessarily a bad thing, but something has gone horribly wrong when figures like Jones and Richard Spencer  one of the nations most prominent white nationalists  gain prominent followings on the platforms, Ghosh said.

Tech companies are perfectly within their rights to kick Jones and others off their platforms, said Theodore J. Boutrous Jr., a partner at Gibson Dunn who frequently litigates 1st Amendment cases on behalf of an array of media organizations and technology companies.

These are private companies that are not governed by the 1st Amendment or restricted by those free speech principles, Boutrous said. They can enforce their terms of service to banish those who violate their contractual terms.

Federal law generally protects social-media platforms such as Facebook from legal exposure in the types of defamation lawsuits Jones has faced, Boutrous said.

As long as they have a process and system that includes terms and conditions and terms of usage that are reasonable and rational, theyre not liable for the defamatory statements of people who come on and post, Boutrous said. They have every right to say get off our platform, and thats what theyre doing.

In explaining Twitters decision not to cancel Jones account, a representative for the company suggested other Twitter users were keeping Jones in check in his replies by fact-checking him.

For the social media companies, cracking down on Jones carries risks of alienating his many followers who remain on the platforms.

Jones may be the most prominent conspiracy theorist in the media, but he is far from the only one online. It is unclear whether the companies will target other users who share similar views  which would be a massive undertaking, even for a company as large as Facebook.

Antonio Garcia-Martinez, a former Facebook product manager and author who considers himself a free-speech absolutist, said the company was probably right to ban him for outrageous speech.

Although banning Jones certainly limits his ability to reach his massive audience and to spread new conspiracy theories, it doesnt do much to address the conspiracy theories that are already circulating among the public, Garcia-Martinez said. He cited the popularity of QAnon, a convoluted new theory alleging that Trumps enemies will all be arrested.

You ban the author of nonsense, but [Facebook] isnt going to censor the nonsense (one assumes), so does it matter? Garcia-Martinez wrote. I guess the answer is probably no.

The parents of Sandy Hook victims welcomed the bans but wish they had come sooner.

News outlets and social media platforms are finally waking up to the critical difference between those who foster a marketplace of freely exchanged ideas and those that peddle false facts to make money off the suffering of others, said Josh Koskoff, an attorney who represents several families suing Jones. Unfortunately, for many of the Sandy Hook families, the damage has already been done.

matt.pearce@latimes.com

Matt Pearce is a national reporter for The Times. Follow him on Twitter at @mattdpearce.

david.pierson@latimes.com

Twitter: @dhpierson

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President Trumps demonization of the media as the enemy of the people is mostly kayfabe.

A professional wrestling term, kayfabe means presenting staged events as if theyre real. Pro wrestling is theater, not sport. But it thrives on the illusion that it is the latter, not the former.

This twilight realm is Trumps bailiwick. His business empire was built on the maxim fake it till you make it, feeding bogus stories to copy-hungry tabloids. His gift partly stems from believing his own bull. When asked under oath how he measures his net worth, he explained that it depends on his personal feelings.

Trump also believes in the kayfabes of others. He reportedly once called the headquarters of the WWE to find out if CEO Vince McMahon was OK after seeing McMahons limo explode in an episode of Monday Night RAW

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See the kayfabe for what it is; dont fall for the performance.

Trump is a bit like one of the shackled mortals in Platos cave: He thinks the shadows on the wall, or his TV, are the real thing. Before it became politically inconvenient, Trump used to brag that he knew Russian President Vladimir Putin. I got to know him very well because we were both on 60 Minutes, we were stablemates, he said. He seemed to think they knew each other very well solely because they appeared on the same broadcast. Heres the thing: They never actually met.

This twofold tendency  to believe the story and to believe that the story is more important than reality  goes a long way toward explaining why he believes in conspiracy theories, thinks lavish summits are their own reward, and makes bold announcements via Twitter that would be great if they were actually true.

There is no longer a Nuclear Threat from North Korea, the president tweeted after his summit with Kim Jong-un. Ridiculous, but beside the point; if you want the legend to become fact, tweet the legend.

Our dilemma: how to deal with our kayfabed world. Some boosters just go along with the act. They say hes the worlds greatest negotiator because thats the story of Trumps brand  and id.

Fake news isnt necessarily news thats untrue, but news that inconveniently breaks the fourth wall of the kayfabe. When the Sun reported Trumps criticisms of British Prime Minister Theresa May, he said it was fake, even though he was on tape saying it. At a rally last month, Trump cut to the chase: What youre seeing and what youre reading is not whats happening.

Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute from L.A. Times Opinion 

For many in the administration, the challenge is to humor the kayfabe while doing your job. Last June, following the G-7 summit in Canada, Trump tweeted that he had instructed his staff to reject the groups joint statement. His staff ignored him. Its like theres a reality TV president, in his own bubble, thinking he controls stuff. Its like The Truman Show,  one source told Buzzfeed. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has suggested multiple times that administration policy cannot be gleaned from the tweets and riffs provided by the script-writing homunculus in Trumps brain.

Meanwhile, Trumps biggest detractors retreat to a kayfabe all their own, in which they constitute the heroic opposition to an authoritarian monster  literally Hitler! If Trump were Hitler, theyd be in jail.

Journalists are caught between these narratives, and often succumb to their audiences delusions. Many of my colleagues at Fox tell viewers what they want to hear: Trump can do no wrong. Many at MSNBC and CNN are invested in either the resistance story or their victimhood. (CNNs Jim Acosta has made a name for himself as a preening handwringer over Trumps war on the press.)

In each case theyre doing Trump a favor. Every wrestling story line needs a villain and a hero, and every promoter/producer sees good ratings as their own reward. Thats why the news media gave candidate Trump $2 billion in free media.

Its an ugly spectacle with an obvious solution: See the kayfabe for what it is; dont fall for the performance.

jgoldberg@latimescolumnists.com

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion or Facebook
Exposing a longstanding lie blunt even by his standards, President Trump on Sunday confessed by tweet that the purpose of the June 9, 2016 Trump Tower meeting between his campaign and a Kremlin-linked lawyer was to get information on an opponent, totally legal and done all the time in politics.

It was left to his lawyer Jay Sekulow to try to clean up the mess. Addressing whether the meeting constituted a criminal violation, Sekulow told George Stephanopoulos on ABCs This Week that you have to look at what laws, rules, regulations, statutes are purportedly violated here.

So lets do that. Meeting with a foreign power to get assistance with a presidential campaign is not totally legal; special counsel Robert S. Mueller III almost certainly could indict Donald Trump Jr. today for what is publicly known about the meeting; and the president should be deeply concerned about his own liability.

Muellers February indictment of the Internet Research Agency, and associated Russian entities and individuals, charged a conspiracy to influence the election to damage Hillary Clinton, Sens. Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio, and support Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump  lets call it an electioneering conspiracy. The indictment charged violations of 18 U.S. Code  371  conspiracy to commit an offense against, or to defraud United States.

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The Trump Tower meeting clearly fits established definitions of conspiracy to defraud the United States.

Under the defraud clause, as precedent and the U.S. Attorneys Manual make clear, the statute criminalizes any conspiracy for the purpose of impairing, obstructing or defeating the lawful function of any department of government, even if the object of the conspiracy is not a criminal offense. According to Muellers indictment, the conspiracy sought to defraud the Federal Election Commission and the Department of Justice  the agencies charged with preventing foreign nationals from making contributions, donations or expenditures (which can include not just money, but any thing of value) that would influence U.S. elections.

Conspiracy law, its important to note, punishes the act of agreeing to a forbidden goal regardless of whether that goal is achieved. So long as the government can establish that targets agreed to pursue the conspiratorial objective, they may be prosecuted as co-conspirators. Conspirators need only agree to help bring about the object of a conspiracy even if they are not aware of all the details of the conspiracy itself. For example, in chain-conspiracies usually involving narcotics, lower-level buyers and sellers are included in larger distribution conspiracy so long as they have some understanding of the existence of the larger plot.

The Trump Tower meeting clearly fits established definitions of conspiracy to defraud the United States. In early June, Trump Jr. received an email explaining that a Russian government official wanted to provide his fathers campaign with incriminating documents and information about Clinton as part of Russia and its governments support for Mr. Trump. Trump Jr. replied, if its what you say I love it especially later in the summer. The June 9 meeting was confirmed two days earlier, on June 7. That night, Trump announced that he would give a major speech in the next week to discuss all of the things that have taken place with the Clintons.

On the face of it, Trump Jr. was approached by a foreign government seeking to influence an American election. Trump Jr. welcomed the possibility of influence, and candidate Trumps actions, while circumstantial, indicate that he intended to make use of that information. It is irrelevant, in conspiracy law, that Trump Jr. found the information ultimately worthless, or as Trump said, that it went nowhere.

Enter the Fray: First takes on the news of the minute from L.A. Times Opinion 

Michael Cohens allegations last week must have deeply terrified the president and those looking out for his legal interests. Cohen, the presidents former lawyer and fixer, reportedly is willing to tell Mueller that he was in the room when Trump heard about and approved the June 9 meeting. That would potentially place the president at the center of the decision to join the electioneering conspiracy. Trumps later documented effort to dictate a false statement about the meeting looks like an attempt to cover up his culpability. A prosecutor and jury are entitled to view a cover-up as evidence of participation in the conspiracy.

More than one year after telling the world that the June 2016 meeting was about adoptions, Trump and his eldest son stand stripped of their false cover. There is no more denying that the meeting sought to enlist the help of a hostile power to swing the election Trumps way. The effort and the false statements about it were plainly deplorable. Whether they also were illegal turns on questions of law that Trump cannot obfuscate or control. They are what they are. Mueller already has laid the legal predicate for the Trumps guilt. Trump is at last playing in a legit game, and his hand is weak.

Harry Litman, a former deputy assistant attorney general, teaches constitutional law at UC San Diego. David Lieberman, a former Massachusetts assistant attorney general, is a lawyer with the Whistleblower Law Collaborative.

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinionand Facebook
To the editor: I have been waiting for two weeks to read a report on the four heroes who averted a potential massacre on that fateful day at the Silver Lake Trader Joes: shoppers MaryLinda Moss and Mike DAngelo, and store employees Victor and Josie. Robin Abcarians column about them was absolutely riveting.

Moss, who spoke with empathy to suspected gunman Gene Atkins, was the right person in the right place at the right time. Because of these peoples compassion and willingness to put their own lives at risk, the Los Angeles Police Department officers at the scene did not kill anyone else besides store manager Melyda Corado.

Our new police chief needs to learn something from this incident. Moss is a hero to her community and to the city of Los Angeles.

Lesley St. James, Beverly Hills

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..

To the editor: Abcarians beautifully written account of Moss tender presence in the Trader Joes Ive used for decades underscored what I thought was probably happening as the crisis was underway.

The huge police presence I encountered at Hyperion Avenue and Griffith Park Boulevard indicated something had gone horribly wrong. Watching the tense standoff for the next two hours on live TV, I thought, if this young man had ended up in South L.A., hed be dead by now. It was because this unfolded in Silver Lake that he had a chance to survive.

I knew that the people of Silver Lake were somehow impacting the situation, but little did I know that a beautiful soul was choosing to be in just the right place at the right time, and was skillfully guiding the outcome.

I hope Moss is doing OK. I wish her well.

Karen Pokraka, Silver Lake

..

To the editor: Thank you for publishing the article about Moss and the way she helped resolve the terrible crisis in Silver Lake. It broke my heart reading that Atkins told her hed wished hed met her sooner, and that he just needed someone to talk to.

Each of us can respond to our societys problems with fear, violence or isolation, or we can respond by seeking out those who are different from us or who scare us  the least of these, in Jesus words. There are so many who need us  and we need them too.

Jon Allen, La Crescenta

Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook.
Newsoms budget proposes $3 million for Alzheimers research, brain task force By Melody Gutierrez Amyloid plaques, shown here in human brains, are a hallmark of Alzheimers disease. (UCLA School of Medicine) Gov. Gavin Newsom will call for the creation of a brain health task force and dedicate $3 million annually from the states general fund to Alzheimers disease research in the budget proposal he will release Thursday, a source close to the administration said. The money for Alzheimers research would target the new grants at understanding why the disease is more prevalent in women and people of color. Former California first lady and Alzheimers activist Maria Shriver pushed for the funding to be included in the state budget. Shriver said in a statement Wednesday that the funding would make California the first state to make understanding our brains a priority. The states former first lady, whose late father Sargent Shriver was diagnosed with Alzheimers, founded the Womens Alzheimers Movement, an advocacy group raising awareness about womens increased risk for developing the disease. In 2011, she wrote a comprehensive assessment on the disease, to which Newsom  then mayor of San Francisco  contributed a portion called What one city is doing. This is personal to me, just like it is to millions of California families, Shriver said. Alzheimers is one of the largest medical, social and economic crises in our state, and of our time. I am so proud that, once again, California is leading the way. Wiping out Alzheimers is going to require bold thinking, and there is no doubt in my mind that California is home to bold thinkers who can make this happen. Facebook

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Gov. Gavin Newsom orders reinvention of troubled California DMV By Patrick McGreevy A line of people stretches around the South L.A. location of a California Department of Motor Vehicles Office on Aug. 7. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) Gov. Gavin Newsom on Wednesday ordered an overhaul of the California Department of Motor Vehicles, which has been plagued by hours-long wait times at field offices, computer crashes and voter registration errors involving tens of thousands of customers. Just a few days after taking office, Newsom appointed a top advisor to a new DMV Reinvention Strike Team to revamp the beleaguered agency over the next six months. By any metric, California DMV has been chronically mismanaged and failed in its fundamental mission to the state customers it serves and the state workers it employs, Newsom said in a statement, adding Its time for a reinvention. The governor appointed state Government Operations Agency Secretary Marybel Batjer to lead the strike team with a goal of modernizing the agency and enacting changes that improve customer satisfaction, employee performance and transparency. Newsom also ordered an accelerated review of initial findings of an ongoing audit ordered last year by Gov. Jerry Brown. The action was welcomed by lawmakers who have been critical of the DMV, including Assemblyman Vince Fong (R-Bakersfield). The egregious management failures of the DMV have been self-evident, which is why I have been calling for new leadership and a comprehensive independent audit of this troubled state agency over and over again as the problems grew significantly worse, Fong said. Last summer, Californians seeking new driver licenses complained of wait times of four to six hours at DMV offices, which the agency blamed partly on snafus caused by a rush of people trying to get Real IDs, a new identification card design required for airline passengers starting in late 2020. Delays were also blamed on computer crashes at DMV offices as the agency struggled to update its aging automation systems. The DMV also admitted that there were an estimated 23,000 errors as people either were unknowingly registered to vote or mistakes were made in their registration status as part of the states new motor voter program. The agency registered to vote as many as 1,500 people with legal U.S. residency but no citizenship. Last month, DMV Director Jean Shiomoto retired from the agency. Legislators were angered earlier this week when the DMV said it needed an additional $40 million to prevent the return of long lines at its field offices. In addition, the agency has been under fire for issuing driver licenses in the last year that do not comply with the federal Real ID standards requiring two forms of identification by applicants. Facebook

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California police unions are preparing to battle new transparency law in the courtroom By Maya Lau Just as a landmark police transparency law is going into effect, some California police agencies are shredding internal affairs documents and law enforcement unions are rushing to block the information from being released. The new law, which begins to unwind Californias strictest-in-the-nation protections over the secrecy of law enforcement records, opens to the public internal investigations of officer shootings and other major uses of force, along with confirmed cases of sexual assault and lying while on duty. But the lawsuits and records destruction, which began even before the law took effect Jan. 1, could tie up the release of information for months or years, and in some instances, prevent it from ever being disclosed. The fact that police unions are challenging this law is on some level not surprising, said Peter Bibring, director of police practices at the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California, one of the principal supporters of the new law. They have a long history of fighting tooth and nail against transparency. Read More Facebook

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Secretary of State Alex Padilla begins second term with challenge to ensure every Californian is counted By Jazmine Ulloa Secretary of State Alex Padilla takes the oath of office as his family stands by his side on Monday in Sacramento. (Jazmine Ulloa / Los Angeles Times) Secretary of State Alex Padilla was sworn in for a second term on Monday, saying he would continue the battle to protect the right to vote at a time when voter suppression efforts, online disinformation campaigns and interference from foreign adversaries have polarized the public and threatened to undermine trust in U.S. elections. I am doubling down on our fight here in Sacramento and in Washington, D.C., to defend our democracy, he said. Working on the front lines with so many of you, I know that our collective resolve has never been stronger. But the loudest applause came when Padilla promised to fight back against the Trump administrations changes to the U.S. census, saying he will ensure every Californian gets counted. Padilla, a former state senator and Los Angeles City Council member from the San Fernando Valley, led the cause for a new motor voter registration law in 2015, and a new system for online business registrations. But the programs have had experienced problems: More than 23,000 Californians were registered to vote incorrectly by the state DMV, the agency reported last year. On Monday, Padilla said he would continue to push back against false claims of voter fraud in California and pointed to the states voter turnout as proof that his office was involving more people in the democratic process, a promise he made when he was first sworn in four years ago. More than 12.7 million voters cast ballots in the Nov. 6 midterm election, representing roughly 65% of the states registered voters, the highest number of any midterm election since 1982, according to state certified results. I made that promise based on a shared belief that we are a stronger democracy and a better California when we hear all voices from all corners of California, and when those voices are not just heard but counted, Padilla said. Facebook

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Ricardo Lara, Californias first statewide officeholder to come out as gay, sworn in as insurance commissioner Ricardo Lara on the floor of the state Senate in 2016. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times) Ricardo Lara took the oath of office as California insurance commissioner on Monday, pledging action to boost healthcare coverage and combat climate change. Lara, a Democrat from Bell Gardens, is the first elected statewide officeholder in California who has come out as gay. He began his speech in downtown Sacramento by thanking LGBTQ leaders who came before him and celebrated the occasion. Today, because of you, weve shattered the pink ceiling, Lara said. In his inaugural speech, Lara announced the creation of an executive position in his office to address climate change. There is no other industry that has the necessary expertise to ensure that California is prepared to mitigate and reduce risk to our communities and our environment, Lara said. Our planet cant wait. Im ready, and I hope you are too. Lara served as a state legislator and in 2017 introduced a bill to create a single-payer healthcare system in the state. He promised to work with new Gov. Gavin Newsom to expand coverage across California. Lara was sworn in by retired U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker, who declared unconstitutional Californias Proposition 8 gay marriage ban. State Sen. President Pro Tem Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) was on hand for the ceremony along with multiple other state lawmakers. Facebook

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New California Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis says she will help expand access to universities in the state New Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, center, is shown in June talking with attendees at the Power to the Polls rally in Sacramento. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) More Californians should be given access to public universities, Eleni Kounalakis said as she took the oath of office Monday to become the states first woman elected lieutenant governor. Kounalakis was given the oath of office by Gov. Gavin Newsom, her predecessor in the job, who pledged they would work together. As lieutenant governor, Kounalakis serves on the University of California Board of Regents and the California State University Board of Trustees, she noted in a speech at her swearing-in ceremony at the main Sacramento Library. In that role, she said, she will be committed to expanding access to affordable public higher education here in our state. Its wise, its smart and it is the best way to address our rapidly changing digital economy. Kounalakis is former president of a development company founded by her father, Angelo Tsakopoulos, and served during the Obama administration as the U.S. ambassador to Hungary. In November, she won her first run for statewide office. Also attending the ceremony were House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm. Facebook

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California meets Dutch Newsom, who steals the show at his fathers inauguration By Taryn Luna Gov. Gavin Newsom gives his inaugural address while holding his youngest son, Dutch. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) In the California political world, all eyes were on Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday until his 2-year-old son stole the show. Dutch, the youngest of four children in the Newsom brood, climbed onstage in the middle of his fathers inaugural address in a tent outside the Capitol on Monday. The unplanned moment saw the 51-year-old governors big day interrupted by the toddler, bringing levity to the ceremony. Newsom was recounting Gov. Jerry Browns last inaugural speech and reference to the Sermon on the Mount, a biblical story about two men who built separate homes on sand and rock, when Dutch approached his father, a pacifier in his mouth and blanket in hand. Now more than ever we Californians know how much a house matters and children matter, Newsom said, improvising as he scooped the boy into his arms. The governor kissed Dutch on the cheek and held him for several minutes as he continued with the speech. This is exactly how it was scripted, Newsom joked. Newsom eventually put his child down and Dutch walked to the edge of the stage before retreating behind the podium to hide from his mother, First Lady Jennifer Siebel Newsom. The crowd roared. Siebel Newsom was able to briefly divert her son only for him to return to the stage minutes later. She grabbed him again and this time, the crying toddler did not reemerge. When fires strikes, when kids cry and the earth shakes, well be there for each other, Newsom said. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, who said the moment humanized Newsom, threw cold water on any theories that Dutchs cameo was planned. No, I know it was not, Garcetti said with a laugh after Newsoms speech concluded. I could see that look of absolute abject terror [on Newsoms face]. Weve all been there. Kids always think its about themselves and theyve proved it. California Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) agreed. I worked in early childhood education for 20 years and theres no way you can ever get a child to do anything when you want them to do it, Rendon said. Facebook

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Fiona Ma takes oath as Californias new treasurer By Liam Dillon State Treasurer Fiona Ma. Fiona Ma took the oath of office in Sacramento on Monday as the states 34th treasurer, promising to boost Californias economy. Ma previously served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, in the state Assembly and on the California Board of Equalization. I want to thank everyone for entrusting me with this important job. I understand my role here as your state treasurer is to build that financial wall around California so that we will remain the fifth-largest economy, Ma said in brief remarks. That is my promise to you. California Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye administered the oath to Ma. Following the ceremony, Ma held an ice cream social for guests. On Wednesday, she will host a public event in San Francisco to celebrate her swearing-in. State Treasurer Fiona Ma takes the oath of office. (Liam Dillon / Los Angeles Times) Facebook

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Expectations are high for newly sworn-in state schools chief Tony Thurmond Tony Thurmond shakes hands with retired Alameda County Superior Court Judge Gordon Baranco after taking the oath of office. (Melody Gutierrez / Los Angeles Times) Tony Thurmond took the oath of office as Californias state superintendent of public schools on Monday, promising a labor-friendly agenda before the teachers, students and Democratic officials who filled an auditorium at McClatchy High School in Sacramento to watch him being sworn in. We cant close the achievement gap without a great teacher at the head of every class, Thurmond said Monday to applause. We have to make sure we provide quality compensation and support to our teachers and our classified staff and all the educators who support our kids. Thurmond, a Bay Area Democrat who served in the state Assembly, won a hotly contested and expensive race with the help of labor leaders against charter school executive Marshall Tuck. The race took several days to sort out after Tuck held an initial lead in early returns on election night before falling behind thereafter. Thurmond was sworn in Monday by retired Alameda County Superior Court Judge Gordon Baranco. He was joined on stage by labor rights leader Dolores Huerta and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount). Thurmonds former colleagues in the state Assembly took turns praising him and promising to be an ally in improving schools. Many said they expected Thurmond would be a strong leader focused on improving student outcomes. We know we are going to work hard to give you the money you need and the budget you need to fully fund education and our schools so we can put our money where our mouth is and make sure our children have everything they need, Assemblywoman Connie Leyva (D-Chino Hills) said. As state superintendent, Thurmond will oversee the education of 6.2 million students at 10,000 schools. Thurmond was a member of the West Contra Costa County School Board and a Richmond city councilman before he was elected to the state Assembly. Tony is the right man at the right time to fight the federal, Donald Trump, Betsy DeVos anti-child, anti-education, anti-civil and -human rights agenda, U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) said. Tony is going to do that for us. Facebook

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State Controller Betty Yee takes oath of office with call for more affordable housing and healthcare State Controller Betty Yee California Controller Betty Yee took the oath of office Monday for a second term, saying she still has work to do addressing problems that include a lack of affordability in housing, healthcare and higher education. A San Francisco native, Yee is the chief financial officer of California  the fifth-largest economy in the world  having first won election to the post in 2014 before winning reelection in November. No region is spared from the widening inequality and increased poverty that plague our state, fueled by the lack of affordable, stable housing, the cost of healthcare and transportation, limited educational opportunities, student loan debt, displacement caused by disasters and more, she said. Yee was administered the oath of office by California Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye at the Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento before an overflow crowd that included state Senate leader Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), state Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra and San Francisco Mayor London Breed. As a public official it is about governance that delivers results and stays accountable while upholding the underlying value of dignity for all, Yee said. Facebook

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California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra begins new term promising to fight Trump policies California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra ( (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press)) California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra on Monday took the oath of office for a new term, saying he would continue his role as a leading challenger to Trump administration actions that he believes are counter to the states interests. Becerra, a former 12-term congressman, has become a national opposition figure to Trump, having sued the federal government 45 times since he was appointed as the states first Latino attorney general in 2017. Weve been a little busy stopping the dysfunction and insanity in Washington, D.C., from infecting California, Becerra told an audience during a swearing-in ceremony at the California Museum in Sacramento. Whether its the criminals on our streets or the conman in the boardrooms or highest office of the land, Becerra said, the California Department of Justice, well, weve got your back. Becerra won his first statewide election as the states top cop in November, two years after he filled the post vacated when predecessor Kamala Harris was elected to the U.S. Senate. He has peppered the Trump administration with lawsuits challenging federal policies on healthcare, the U.S. census, the environment and immigration. Our state builds dreams, not walls, he said in a direct criticism of Trumps proposal to build a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border. Just last week, Becerra led a coalition of 17 Democratic attorneys general in announcing an appeal of a federal judge in Texas that ruled the Affordable Care Act unconstitutional. The ACA has been the law for nearly a decade and is the backbone of our healthcare system, Becerra said last week. This case impacts nearly every American  workers covered by employers, families, women, children, young adults and seniors  so we will lead the ACAs defense as long and far as it takes. Facebook

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California Democratic Party Vice Chairman Daraka Larimore-Hall announces bid to lead group By Christine Mai-Duc Daraka Larimore-Hall. (Dominic Parisi / Courtesy of Daraka Larimore-Hall) Daraka Larimore-Hall, a top official at the California Democratic Party, said Monday hes running to replace former chairman Eric Bauman, who resigned abruptly in November after being confronted with allegations of sexual misconduct. Larimore-Hall, a longtime state party activist and former chairman of the Democratic Party of Santa Barbara County, was one of the party leaders who urged Bauman to resign following the allegations. In an email to supporters announcing his bid, he urged both structural and cultural change at every level of our Party. He also repeated his call for a top-to-bottom investigation of the allegations, the party and its culture. In a Times investigation, 10 party activists and staff members said Bauman made crude sexual comments and engaged in unwanted touching and physical intimidation in professional settings. In order to be where we need to be for 2020, we have to confront the culture of abuse and fear that allowed someone to behave in such a vile way for so long, Larimore-Hall said in an interview. We cant brush it aside or think that our activists or our candidates or our donors are going to forget about this overnight. Larimore-Hall said his first priority would be to fully investigate the allegations and restore rank-and-file confidence in the partys leadership. The second would be to refocus the party on political priorities as the 2020 presidential election nears. The Bauman episode, Larimore-Hall said, threatens to derail the Democrats plans to help defeat President Trump and keep the seven congressional seats gained in the midterm elections. Its definitely a crisis, Larimore-Hall said. But the component parts  the energy, the enthusiasm, the volunteers, the infrastructure  its still there. We just need to direct it toward something. Larimore-Hall was elected vice chairman of the state party in February following Baumans razor-thin victory over Bay Area activist Kimberly Ellis. Ellis has announced another bid for the chairmanship and former state Senate leader Kevin de Leon is also mulling a run. The vote will take place at the partys May convention in San Francisco. Facebook

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Newsom will vow to seize this moment, and swipe at Trump in Monday inaugural address By Melanie Mason Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom and his family attend an Inauguration Family Event at the California Railroad Museum in Sacramento on Jan. 6. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) Building on the theme of California exceptionalism that defined his campaign, Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom will depict the state as a guardian of progressive values and a counterweight to President Trump in his inaugural address Monday, according to excerpts of his prepared remarks. What we do today is even more consequential, because of whats happening in our country, read the excerpts obtained by The Times. Peoples lives, freedom, security, the water we drink, the air we breathe  they all hang in the balance. The country is watching us. The world is waiting on us. The future depends on us. And we will seize this moment. The speech casts Californias political stakes in a decidedly national scope, promising an agenda that will unify and be an example to the rest of the country. It contrasts the governing goals of Newsom, a Democrat, with that of Trump, the incoming governors perennial foil. We will offer an alternative to the corruption and incompetence in the White House, the excerpts say. Our government will be progressive, principled, and always on the side of the people. Newsom campaigned on an ambitious and wide-ranging platform, promising sweeping solutions on housing, healthcare, education and other issues that rank among Californians top concerns. In the weeks after his election, he struck a more muted tone, taking pains to emphasize his fiscal caution and need for patience in achieving those goals. The inaugural excerpts indicate a return to lofty pledges. While Newsom will vow to prepare for uncertain times ahead by building budgetary reserves and paying down debt, the prepared remarks quickly turn to a vow to be bold. Newsom has already floated several proposals for his first budget that carry significant price tags, including a nearly $2-billion plan to boost early childhood development for low-income families and a dramatic expansion of paid family leave from six weeks to six months. When asked for a preview of his inauguration speech during a news conference Sunday evening, Newsom predicted pundits would criticize his address as short on specifics. Well, of course, Im at an inaugural, Newsom said. But Ill be very detailed in the budget, a few days later. And then we will architect, in much more nuance and detail, in state of the state. I really see this as three opportunities  to communicate over the next few weeks our agenda, our vision for the state. Times staff writer Taryn Luna contributed to this report. Read More Facebook

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Newsom-hosted benefit concert raises nearly $5 million for wildfire victims By Taryn Luna Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom speaks at a concert to benefit wildfire victims at the Golden 1 Arena in Sacramento on Jan. 6. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) On the eve of the gubernatorial inauguration, Californias political class rubbed elbows in Sacramento for a benefit concert hosted by Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom and headlined by the rapper Pitbull. Newsom told the crowd gathered at the Golden 1 Center on Sunday evening that the fundraiser brought in nearly $5 million for the California Wildfire Foundation, a 501(c)(3) that supports the families of fallen firefighters and communities affected by wildfires. You know, a lot of folks feel anxious about not just politics, but government, Newsom said on stage before introducing the rapper and activist Common. But those firefighters, they are the antidote to the fear and cynicism; they are the manifestation of why government matters and why you should care. Top sponsors, including Salesforce, Kaiser Permanente and other interest groups, paid up to $1 million each to support the cause and curry favor with the new administration. Nathan Click, a spokesman for Newsom, said organizers sold more than 7,000 tickets. Several state lawmakers attended the concert alongside Capitol staff, lobbyists and business types, who mingled on the floor of the arena and offstage in private VIP areas. The rock band X Ambassadors and a duo called the Cold Weather Sons from the town of Paradise, which was destroyed by fire in November, were among several performers who entertained the crowd during the four-hour event. The California Rises concert is the final in a series of festivities held Sunday to celebrate the inauguration of Californias 40th governor. Earlier in the day, Newsom attended a private brunch at Sacramentos Crocker Art Museum and his inaugural committee hosted a free party for families at the California State Railroad Museum at the Old Sacramento Waterfront. Newsoms inauguration is set to begin at 11 a.m. Monday on the steps of the Capitol. Facebook

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Inauguration fever hits Sacramento as Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom prepares to take office By Phil Willon Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom holds his son, Dutch, as he and his family attend an inaugural event at the at the state Railroad Museum Sunday. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) Incoming Gov. Gavin Newsom doesnt officially take the oath of office until Monday, but the parties celebrating his inauguration were in full swing all day Sunday. Newsom and his family were mobbed by well-wishers at the California State Railroad Museum at the Old Sacramento Waterfront in the afternoon, where his inaugural committee hosted a free party for families. He just has charisma. Hes able to really connect with people, said Rosielyn Pulmano, an attorney from Elk Grove who came to see Newsom with her husband, two sons and her niece. I think he cares about working Californians and a lot of their issues. Newsom arrived with his wife, documentary filmmaker Jennifer Siebel Newsom, and their four young children, and the governor-elect spent a good deal of his time wading through crowds, taking selfies with supporters and signing autographs as music boomed in the background. As the family toured the inside of the museums locomotives and the bevy of exhibits, Newsoms two-year-old son, Dutch, was wide-eyed, impressed by all the train cars and seemingly a little overwhelmed by the crowd. Newsom said that for his son, all that was missing from the museum was Thomas the Train, popular fictional locomotive in childrens books and cartoons . If theres one thing I can contribute to Sacramento maybe its getting a Thomas the Train exhibit for the two years olds, Newsom joked when talking with reporters afterward. Newsom said he wanted to include such an event in his inaugural festivities to highlight families and children, whose wellbeing will be among the top priorities of his administration. Youll see that not only as a preamble to the inaugural and the budget that well be submitting next week, but I think itll be a big part of the administration, Newsom said. The museum event followed a private, high-dollar brunch at Sacramentos Crocker Art Museum. A steady rain failed to dissuade as many as 200 guests who sipped wine and dined on chicken and salmon while waiting for a photo with Californias new first couple. Seen at the event were representatives of some of the states most powerful political interests, among them organized labor, healthcare companies and tribal gaming interests. A few other high-profile guests attended, too, including Larry Baer, CEO of the San Francisco Giants, and Erika Jayne, a singer and cast member of the reality TV show The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Im excited to see someone like Gavin  young, vibrant  taking over the state and leading us into the future, Jayne said after attending the brunch with her husband, attorney Tom Girardi. Hes got a lot of great plans. Attendees said the event, which was closed to reporters and held under a tent in the museums outdoor atrium, did not include prepared remarks by Newsom. Among those seen leaving the event were representatives of AT&T, the California Medical Assn., Uber, Kaiser Permanente and the State Building and Construction Trades Council. A fundraising invitation obtained by The Times offered bundled tickets to all of the inauguration events, including those on Sunday and the Monday ceremony, ranging in price from $25,000 to $200,000. The money will be collected by a committee specifically organized to pay for Newsoms inaugural weekend. Sundays festivities are scheduled to end with a benefit concert headlined by Pitbull at the Golden 1 Center, home of the NBAs Sacramento Kings, to raise money for the victims of Californias recent deadly wildfires. Among the attendees at @GavinNewsoms pre-inaugural leadership brunch: Real Housewife of

Bev Hills @erikajayne. Im excited to see someone like Gavinyoung, vibranttaking over the state and leading us into the future. Hes got a lot of great plans. pic.twitter.com/561NHiy2XQ  Melanie Mason (@melmason) January 6, 2019 Facebook

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As Newsom inaugural events begin, he unveils more state budget promises on education and paid family leave Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom, seen here last April, will propose new state budget efforts on paid family leave and education subsidies. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) Californias incoming governor, who must send his first state budget plan to the Legislature this week, has already signaled a significant new focus on programs to help families and children from infancy to college. Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom campaigned on a platform that included a number of child-focused efforts specifically aimed at helping lower-income families. The price tag for the initial efforts is expected to approach $2 billion  a cost paid out of an unrestricted tax revenue windfall that could be one of the largest in state history. Newsom may also seek help for families through new subsidies paid by California employers. The governor-elect is expected to propose a dramatic expansion of paid parental leave  from six weeks to six months  according to an internal document provided by a source close to the Newsom transition team, first reported on Sunday by the New York Times. The document doesnt offer a full explanation for how the program will be funded, saying instead that the budget will set a goal of ensuring that all newborns and newly adopted babies can be cared for by a parent or a close family member for the first six months. Employers across the state are currently assessed a payroll tax that helps offer a subsidy to parents who temporarily leave their job to care for a newborn. Newsoms plan, according to the document, would pay for some of the new costs by shrinking the mandated cash reserve of the state fund that administers the program, allowing more of the money to be paid in benefits. The increase in paid leave would not all happen at once but instead be phased in over a multi-year period. A task force to help implement the expanded care plan is also envisioned, according to the document. It would determine whether two parents could split the six months of paid leave and whether an extended family member could be enlisted to help care for the child of a single parent over the six-month period. The incoming administrations focus on young children will also include $1.8 billion in new spending on early childhood education programs, with a particular focus on training childcare workers and pushing for more California schools to offer full-day kindergarten. Those costs, according to an overview memo obtained by the Los Angeles Times, are considered to be a one-time expense while leaving the long-term costs of the effort to be determined later. More community college students would get free tuition under a third initiative expected in the new governors budget plan. Newsom will propose spending $40 million to offer a second year of tuition-free college to California students, according to an outline provided by a transition official, first reported by Politico. Students are already eligible for a single year of paid tuition under a plan agreed to by Gov. Jerry Brown and lawmakers in 2017. The incoming governor embraced the idea of free community college during the 2018 campaign as part of a broader focus on additional investments in higher education. Education is an economic development strategy, Newsom said at a higher education forum last spring. We need to significantly increase the investment from the general fund of this state on higher education. Theres no greater higher return on investment. Whether the proposal would be targeted to students based on a familys financial need is unclear. Many low-income students are already eligible for fee waivers at community colleges. The new governor must submit his full state budget plan to lawmakers no later than Thursday. Facebook

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Gavin Newsom and his family decide Sacramento is the place to be The Old Governors Mansion State Historic Park in Sacramento. Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom will move his family into the mansion. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom and his family will give up the Marin County life and move to the Victorian-style governors mansion in Sacramento after he takes the oath of office Monday. Newsom and his wife, documentary filmmaker Jennifer Siebel Newsom, had debated whether or when to relocate to the state capital since his election in November. The couple have four young children and expressed reservations about moving in the middle of a school year. To best serve the people of California while also maximizing family time together, the Newsoms have therefore decided to move to Sacramento, said Newsoms spokesman, Nathan Click. On Monday, they will move into the Governors Mansion  along with their four children, their two family dogs, and their family bunny rabbit  and reside there for the immediate future. The Newsoms currently live in Marin County. Gov. Jerry Brown and his wife, Ann Gust Brown, moved into the grand house in 2015 after it underwent $4.1 million in renovations to update electrical and plumbing systems, as well as to remove lead-based paint and install a fire sprinkler system and other security features. The mansion was built in 1877 and has been home to 14 governors, but before Brown it had not housed a California governor for nearly half a century. The state bought the mansion from a wealthy Sacramento hardware merchant, Albert Gallatin, in 1903 for $32,500. It was one of the few California homes at that time to have indoor plumbing. Facebook

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Newsom announces top labor, business liaisons as he prepares to take office Julie Su will be secretary of the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency for Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom. (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times) Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom on Friday named two advisors on issues related to the California economy, each recognized for their expertise on business and labor. The incoming governor will appoint Julie Su as secretary of the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency and Lenny Mendonca as chief economic and business advisor and director of the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development. Su, 49, has served as state labor commissioner under Gov. Jerry Brown since 2011 and has led an office tasked with the enforcement of Californias labor laws. She won a MacArthur Foundation genius grant in 2001 and previously worked as a civil rights attorney representing low-wage workers. In her new position, Su will be tasked with coordinating the work of several workforce departments in state government, including those that administer unemployment benefits and oversee the relationship between agriculture workers and employers. Mendonca, 57, has been a longtime advocate for rethinking government operations as co-chairman of the nonprofit organization California Forward. Previously, he was partner at McKinsey & Co., a global management consulting firm. While he will be a key advisor to Newsom on the states economy, Mendonca will also lead the office often referred to as Go-Biz, designated as a high-level way to encourage job growth and economic development. In his new role, Mendonca will help ensure that California is rolling out the welcome mat to current and future California businesses and growing a sustainable economy for every Californian, said a statement from the Newsom transition team. Newsom will take the oath of office as governor Monday. He has previously selected key advisors on the state budget, legislative affairs and the executive branchs wide array of agencies and departments. Facebook

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Joshua Groban, aide to Gov. Jerry Brown, sworn in to California Supreme Court By Taryn Luna California Supreme Court Justice Joshua Groban gives remarks after he is sworn into the court by Gov. Jerry Brown on Thursday. (Taryn Luna) California Supreme Court Justice Joshua Groban, a lawyer and longtime aide to Gov. Jerry Brown, was sworn into the states highest court Thursday in Sacramento. The ceremony marked Browns fourth appointment to the state Supreme Court and gave the seven-member bench a Democratic majority. We live in a highly chaotic, ever-changing and ever-confusing world, Groban said in prepared remarks at the Stanley Mosk Library and Courts Building. But Im happy to report that Im joining an institution whose fundamental purpose, at core, is to provide stability and consistency amidst this chaotic place we live. I look forward to doing that with a sense of reflection, respect, fidelity to the law and compassion. None of Browns appointees, Groban included, have judicial experience. Groban served as legal counsel to Browns 2010 gubernatorial campaign and joined the administration as a senior advisor to the governor, overseeing the appointments of some 600 judges over the last eight years. Prior to working with Brown, Groban, 45, practiced law for more than a decade. In perhaps his final public appearance before his successor, Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom, takes office next week, Brown pushed back on notions that he stacked the court. I dont want this to be known as a Brown court, the governor said before administering the judicial oath of office. First of all, the so-called Brown appointments do not agree with themselves and nor should they. They are individuals. They will differ. Its not anybodys court. The governor called the court a high calling and said Groban possesses the values for the job. Probably, next to my wife, Ive talked to no person as much as Ive talked to Josh Groban, Brown said. I think youve talked to him more, Californias First Lady Anne Gust Brown interjected. I cant tell you what the hell hes going to do, Brown later quipped. I warned him, dont screw up, at least not at first. Facebook

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California campaign watchdog agency seeks law barring use of campaign funds to fight harassment claims Former state Sen. Tony Mendoza (D-Artesia). ( (Steve Yeater / Associated Press)) Elected officials accused of harassment or discrimination would be barred from using political contributions to cover their legal defense costs under legislation proposed by Californias campaign watchdog agency. The state Fair Political Practices Commission has agreed to pursue a law change to clear up confusion after an attorney for one former state lawmaker argued political funds could be used in such legal defenses. Commission Chairwoman Alice Germond said putting a prohibition into the law would provide some much needed clarity. As chair, I would like to show the public their lawmakers are held to a standard that is above reproach, Germond said in a statement. People dont give money to campaigns for lawmakers to use it to defend their own bad behavior, so lawmakers shouldnt be able to use it in that manner. The issue came up a year ago when an attorney for former Sen. Tony Mendoza (D-Artesia) sought a formal opinion from the FPPC after the Senate launched an investigation that later concluded Mendoza likely engaged in a pattern of harassment against female aides. Mendoza resigned in February under threat of expulsion by the Senate. In a Jan. 10, 2018, letter, Cassandra Ferrannini, an attorney for Mendoza, wrote to the FPPC that she believed Mendoza should be allowed to establish a legal defense fund able to defray his legal expenses in defending himself against the allegations. The use of campaign funds for attorneys fees under these circumstances would fall squarely within the scope of legislative matters, since it involves the alleged conduct of a legislator with regard to legislative staff that he supervised, Ferrannini wrote. The commission staff originally issued an advice letter that said Mendoza may use campaign and legal defense funds to defend himself from claims of sexual harassment that arose directly out of his activities or status as a candidate or elected officer. But the panel later rescinded the letter after some members questioned using campaign funds to fight sexual harassment claims. That left uncertainty about what was allowed, which Germond said could be cleared up by a new law. The FPPC is still looking for a legislator to carry the bill, a spokesman said. Facebook

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Californias landmark police transparency law takes effect after court denies police union effort to block it California Supreme Court building (Eric Risberg / Associated Press) A new state law allowing the public disclosure of internal police shooting investigations has gone into effect after the California Supreme Court on Wednesday denied a bid by a police union to block it. The law opens to the public for the first time internal investigations of officer shootings and other major uses of force, along with confirmed cases of sexual assault and lying while on duty. The San Bernardino County Sheriffs Employees Benefit Assn. challenged the law last month, asking state Supreme Court justices to decide that the law only apply to incidents that occur in 2019 or later. The court rejected that request Wednesday, allowing members of the public to seek all applicable records held by police departments. Union president Grant Ward said in a statement that his organization was disappointed with the decision and is now seeking other legal options. We feel this is a statewide issue and should be considered accordingly, Ward said. Last month, the city of Inglewood authorized the destruction of more than 100 police shooting investigations and other records in advance of Jan. 1, when the disclosure law was scheduled to take effect. California law requires police departments to keep such records for five years, and Inglewood City Council voted to destroy records older than that. Mayor James T. Butts has said the decision had nothing to do with the new law. In Los Angeles, Police Chief Michel Moore has said that complying with the new disclosure rules could take hundreds of thousands of hours of work. State Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), the author of the transparency law, has said she has no immediate plans to propose changes to it. Facebook

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Few complaints of racial profiling are sustained by police agencies in California, state panel finds CHP Officer J. Nelson stands outside the office of Gov. Jerry Brown as activists in 2015 support requiring the tracking of police stops. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Law enforcement agencies in California sustain few citizen complaints of racial or identity profiling, according to a report Wednesday by a state panel set up to help reduce bias in policing. The states Racial and Identity Profiling Advisory Board recommended in its annual report that law enforcement agencies improve training and adopt clear guidelines for tracking and reporting data on who is stopped by officers. The panel said that 453 law enforcement agencies in the state received 9,459 civilian complaints in 2017, including 865 complaints alleging racial or identity profiling. Of the racial and identity complaints that reached a disposition that year, 1.5% were sustained, 14.6% resulted in officers being exonerated and 83.9% of complaints were not sustained or were determined to be unfounded, the report said. A clearer picture of the issue is expected from a 2015 law that requires police agencies to report demographic data on all detentions and searches. The first reports by the eight largest agencies, including the Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, are due to be submitted in April. California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra, whose office oversees the board, said tracking of all detentions and searches will be helpful to understand the scope of the issue. The Boards recommendations will help make our law enforcement agencies more transparent and promote critical steps to enhance, and in some cases, repair the public trust, Becerra said in a statement Wednesday. Facebook

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California housing crisis podcast: What Minneapolis decision to end single-family zoning might mean for California A view of downtown Minneapolis in 2014 (Stephen Maturen / Getty Images) Theres a national movement brewing to roll back zoning rules in cities that only allow one house on a plot of land. The epicenter of that movement is Minneapolis, which passed a plan last month to eliminate single-family zoning citywide and let landowners build duplexes and triplexes on residential property. On this episode of Gimme Shelter: The California Housing Crisis Podcast, we talk about the reasons why Minneapolis leaders took this action, including their desire to combat a history of racial exclusion and spur more housing density to fight climate change. We also debate how Minneapolis decision might affect housing politics in California. Our guest is Minneapolis City Council President Lisa Bender, who helped shepherd the new zoning rules to passage and a former San Francisco city planner. The episode also crowns 2018s Avocado of the Year  the most ridiculous story exemplifying Californias housing woes  and includes our predictions for the most under-the-radar important themes in housing politics in 2019. Gimme Shelter, a biweekly podcast that looks at why its so expensive to live in California and what the state can do about it, features Liam Dillon, who covers housing affordability issues for the Los Angeles Times Sacramento bureau, and Matt Levin, data and housing reporter for CALmatters. You can subscribe to Gimme Shelter on iTunes, Stitcher, Soundcloud, Google Play and Overcast. Facebook

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How young immigrant Dreamers made flipping control of the House a personal quest By Jazmine Ulloa Gabriela Cruz, who was brought to the U.S. illegally when she was 1, couldnt vote, but in the final hours before the Nov. 6 election, she was making one last run to get people to the polls. The sun was setting in Modesto when she found Ronald Silva, 41, smoking a cigarette on a tattered old couch behind a group home. He politely tried to wave her off until she reminded him he had a right that she as an immigrant without citizenship didnt have. It could really make a change for us, said Cruz, 29. Read More Facebook

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Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom will propose almost $2 billion for early childhood programs (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) Seeking to frame his new administration as one with a firm focus on closing the gap between children from affluent and poor families, Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom will propose spending some $1.8 billion on an array of programs designed to boost Californias enrollment in early education and child-care programs. Newsoms plan, which he hinted at in a Fresno event last month, will be a key element in the state budget proposal he will submit to the Legislature shortly after taking office Monday, a source close to the governor-elects transition team said. The spending would boost programs designed to ensure children enter kindergarten prepared to learn, closing what some researchers have called the readiness gap that exists based on a familys income. It would also phase in an expansion of prekindergarten and offer money to help school districts that dont have facilities for full-day kindergarten. The fact that hes making significant investments with his opening budget is really exciting, Ted Lempert, president of the Bay Area-based nonprofit Children Now, said Tuesday. Whats exciting is the comprehensiveness of it, because its saying were going to focus on prenatal through age 5. A broad overview document reviewed by The Times on Tuesday shows that most of the outlay under the plan  $1.5 billion  would be a one-time expense in the budget year that begins July 1. Those dollars would be a single infusion of cash, an approach favored by Gov. Jerry Brown in recent years. Most of the money would be spent on efforts to expand child-care services and kindergarten classes. By law, a governor must submit a full budget to the Legislature no later than Jan. 10. Lawmakers will spend the winter and spring reviewing the proposal and must send a final budget plan to Newsom by June 15. Though legislative Democrats have pushed for additional early childhood funding in recent years  a key demand of the Legislative Womens Caucus  those actions have typically come late in the budget-writing season in Sacramento. Quite frankly, to start out with a January proposal that includes that investment in Californias children reflects a new day, state Sen. Holly J. Mitchell (D-Los Angeles) said. The governor-elect will propose a $750-million boost to kindergarten funding, aimed at expanding facilities to allow full-day programs. A number of school districts offer only partial-day programs, leaving many low-income families to skip enrolling their children because kindergarten classes end in the middle of the workday. Because the money would not count toward meeting Californias three-decades-old education spending guarantee under Proposition 98, which sets a minimum annual funding level for K-12 schools and community colleges, it will not reduce planned spending on other education services. Close behind in total cost is a budget proposal by Newsom to help train child-care workers and expand local facilities already subsidized by the state, as well as those serving parents who attend state colleges and universities. Together, those efforts could cost $747 million, according to the budget overview document. An expansion of prekindergarten programs would be phased in over three years at a cost of $125 million in the first year. The multiyear rollout would, according to the budget overview, ensure the system can plan for the increase in capacity. Lempert said the Newsom proposal is notable for trying to avoid the kinds of battles that in recent years pitted prekindergarten and expanded child care against each other for additional taxpayer dollars. The reality is we need to expand both simultaneously, he said. Another $200 million of the proposal would be earmarked for programs that provide home visits to expectant parents from limited-income families and programs that provide healthcare screenings for young children. Some of the money would come from the states Medi-Cal program, and other money from federal matching dollars. Funding for the home visits program was provided in the budget Brown signed last summer; the Newsom effort would build on that. Emphasizing a policy area with broad appeal in his first state budget could reflect Newsoms political sensibility about the challenges ahead. Democratic lawmakers and interest groups will be especially eager to see how Newsom addresses the demand for an overhaul of healthcare coverage in California  especially after a 2017 effort to create a single-payer, universal system fizzled. The path forward on healthcare is complex and costly, making early childhood education a more achievable goal in the governor-elects early tenure. Newsom is likely to face considerable demands for other additional spending. In November, the Legislatures independent analysts projected that continued strength in tax revenues could produce a cash reserve of some $29 billion over the next 18 months. Almost $15 billion of that could be in unrestricted reserves, the kind that can be spent on any number of government programs. Kim Belshe, executive director of the child advocacy organization First 5 LA and a former state health and human services secretary, said the initial Newsom budget proposal suggests the next governor will focus on a comprehensive approach to improving outcomes for children from low-income families. School-ready kids deserve quality early learning, strong and well-supported families, and access to early screening services, Belshe said. Newsom understands the whole child, multifaceted needs of our kids and is clearly ready to lead. Mitchell, the chair of the Senate budget committee, said shes eager to see the details of the governor-elects proposal to determine whether it might signal the beginning of an even broader expansion of early education efforts. Similar efforts have been hindered by a lack of money and ongoing debate over which services to help children 5 and younger need state funding the most. Universal preschool, in particular, has been debated for more than a decade. California voters rejected a ballot measure to fund a full prekindergarten system in 2006. Its clear theres a new movement afoot trying to engage on investment for universal preschool, Mitchell said. How we invest, and how we prioritize that investment, is going to be a great conversation for the coming months. Facebook

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California Politics Podcast: A final conversation with Gov. Jerry Brown No Californian has served longer as governor, signed more laws, granted clemency to more felons or waged more high-profile campaigns than Gov. Jerry Brown. Brown will leave behind a unique legacy when he packs his last belongings for the trip from the governors mansion in Sacramento to his Northern California ranch. His final two terms in office could be his most consequential. The governor reviewed some of the more notable moments from the past eight years in a far-reaching interview with The Times on Dec. 22. This weeks podcast episode includes extended portions of that conversation. Facebook

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A sagging economy could doom a 2020 ballot measure to raise commercial property taxes, Gov. Jerry Brown says Gov. Jerry Brown, at his Colusa County home on Saturday, said a ballot measure to raise commercial property taxes could struggle in 2020. (Randall Benton/For The Times) An effort to remove commercial property in California from the tax limits imposed by the landmark Proposition 13 could be felled by an economic slowdown, Gov. Jerry Brown said. In a Saturday interview with The Times at his Northern California ranch, Brown said liberal activist groups that have successfully placed the proposal on the November 2020 statewide ballot shouldnt read too much into early poll numbers showing support for the plan. That isnt as easy as you think, Brown said. Because youre going to be in a downturn of the business cycle. And youre talking many kinds of business. And the cost of doing business in California is already high. The ballot measure would allow counties to more frequently assess the market value of commercial property in California than allowed under Proposition 13, a 1978 ballot initiative that amended the state constitution to place strict limits on assessing property values and taxation for both homeowners and businesses. An analysis of the new measure, which qualified in October for the 2020 ballot, estimates it could bring in some $10.5 billion a year in new tax revenue. The business community will fight it, Brown said. And the minimum wage, the family leave, the environmental rules  business[es] have left California, thats going to be the big argument. And I think thats something you really have to think a lot about. The governor, who leaves office early next month due to term limits, declined to either endorse or oppose the ballot measure. He said Californias economic health in two years time could be a key factor in how voters weigh the proposal. Well be in a recession by then, Brown said. So its anybodys guess. Facebook

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Inglewood to destroy more than 100 police shooting records that could otherwise become public under new California law By Jack Dolan Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts (Maria Alejandra Cardona / Los Angeles Times) The city of Inglewood has authorized the shredding of more than 100 police shooting and other internal investigation records weeks before a new state law could allow the public to access them for the first time. The decision, made at a City Council meeting earlier this month, has troubled civil liberties advocates who were behind the state legislation, Senate Bill 1421, which takes effect Jan. 1. The law opens to the public internal investigations of officer shootings and other major uses of force, along with confirmed cases of sexual assault and lying while on duty. The legislature passed SB 1421 because communities demanded an end to the secrecy cloaking police misconduct and use of force, Marcus Benigno, a spokesman for the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California, said in a statement. Inglewood PDs decision to purge records undermines police accountability and transparency against the will of Californians. California law says police departments must retain records of officer shootings and internal misconduct investigations for five years. The city of Inglewood, however, had kept records longer than that, including case files of police shootings dating to 1991. State Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), the author of SB 1421, intended for her bill to allow public access to all qualifying records held by a department, no matter the date of the incident. Inglewood City Council approved the destruction of records that have been in the police departments possession  more than 100 cases  longer than required by law. The city staff report and council resolution describing the action makes no mention of the new police transparency law. Instead it says the affected records are obsolete, occupy valuable space, and are of no further use to the police department. It added the traditional method of destroying such records is to shred them. It is unclear whether the records have since been destroyed. A spokesman for the Inglewood Police Department along with Inglewoods city manager, attorney, clerk, four council members and Mayor James T. Butts, a former Santa Monica police chief, did not respond to requests for comment. Inglewoods City Hall is closed the last two weeks of December. The Inglewood Police Department has a reputation for secrecy and using excessive force. In 2008, the departments officers fatally shot four men in as many months, three of whom turned out to be unarmed. The U.S. Department of Justice launched a civil rights probe and found significant flaws in the way the department oversaw use-of-force cases and investigated complaints against officers. Civil rights advocates still question why Inglewood police opened fire on a couple found sleeping in a car in 2016, killing them both. California police have a long history of shredding records to avoid scrutiny of their actions. In the 1970s, the LAPD famously destroyed more than four tons of personnel records after defense attorneys began requesting them as part of criminal cases against their clients. The move resulted in the dismissal of more than a hundred criminal complaints. In response, the Legislature demanded that records be preserved but then took other measures, supported by police unions, to ensure the public had very little access to them, making California the most secretive state in the nation when it comes to police misconduct. Skinners legislation begins to unwind those laws, which have been on the books since 1978. No video or audio of the Dec. 11 council action is available on the citys website and neither are meeting minutes or any record of the decision. A city spokeswoman, Courtney Torres, confirmed that the council had voted in favor of the police records purge, and said all the relevant reasons for the decision were included in the city staff report. The Jan. 1 implementation for SB 1421 has prompted other police officials to act. A police union in San Bernardino is asking the state Supreme Court to determine that Skinners bill only applies to incidents that occur in 2019 or later. Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore sent a letter to Skinner earlier this month warning that complying with the law in regard to older records in the departments possession could take hundreds of thousands of work hours. Facebook

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Federal officials question California DMVs process for issuing Real IDs (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has notified the California Department of Motor Vehicles that its process for providing residents with federally recognized identification cards is not adequate. DMV spokesman Armando Botello said Friday that 2.3 million residents who received Real IDs under the current process will have to submit additional documentation when their cards are renewed in five years but will be able to use them in the meantime. The DMV is developing a way for residents to submit more documentation online or via email to comply with the stricter federal requirement, he said. But some state legislators are upset about delays in notifying them of the problem and say Homeland Security could eventually require additional documentation provided by current holders. The DMV has known for a month that millions of Real IDs theyve been dolling out are potentially invalid, Assemblyman Jim Patterson (R-Fresno) said. The DMVs only hope is that the Department of Homeland Security takes pity on California and gives the DMV more time to fix this mess. Real IDs are a new kind of driver license and identification card that federal law will require legal residents to present when boarding domestic flights or visiting military bases and other federal facilities starting Oct. 1, 2020. The DMV has only been requiring one form of documentation, including a current lease or utility bill, to verify the residence of a card applicant. But the federal government said in a Nov. 21 letter to the agency that two such documents are needed. On Friday, DMV Director Jean Shiomoto released a letter defending the current process but said her agency will start requiring a second document to prove residency in April. In order to minimize confusion among our customers, the CADMV will work to inform individuals who have been issued a Real ID under the current process that their card will be accepted for official federal purposes, even if their renewal occurs after the October 1, 2020, final enforcement date for Real ID, Shiomoto wrote to the federal agency. Legislative officials worry there is still a possibility that those issued Real IDs in the past might be required to present a second document to have their cards designated as compliant. The more complex process for obtaining Real IDs has led to hours-long waits for customers at DMV field offices this year, although wait times have been reduced recently by an increase in staffing. Shiomoto last month announced that she is retiring amid problems with the motor voter registration system and after the governor ordered an audit of her agency in response to the long wait times. On Friday, Assembly Republican Leader Marie Waldron of Escondido blasted the DMV for waiting a month to tell legislators of the problem. This is unacceptable and flies in the face of security for our citizens, which is what Real ID was created for in the first place, she said in a statement. Facebook

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Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom taps Keely Bosler to be his finance director Keely Bosler, the director of the California Department of Finance, will continue in that role under Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom. (California Department of Finance) Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom on Friday appointed Keely Martin Bosler as director of the California Department of Finance, continuing the role she has served under Gov. Jerry Brown since August. Bosler will become Newsoms chief fiscal advisor, and will play a pivotal role in shaping Newsoms spending plan for the state that will lay the foundation for his top policy priorities. Newsom must roll out his first budget plan within days of taking office on Jan. 7. Californias brighter future depends on a strong, stable fiscal foundation, Newsom said in a statement released Friday afternoon. Keely is an accomplished public servant of sound fiscal judgment. She understands that state budgets are more than numbers on a page  they are value statements affecting the fate and future of millions of families reaching for the California Dream. We are fortunate to have her on our team. Prior to being appointed finance director, Bosler served as Browns cabinet secretary for two years and, before that, as the chief deputy director for budget in the Finance Department for three years. Earlier this year, Brown picked Bosler to lead an audit of the Department of Motor Vehicles, which had come under fire for long wait times at DMV field offices and numerous computer problems, including errors in the new motor voter program that registered Californians to vote. As we have discussed, long wait times at the Department of Motor Vehicles do not reflect the high standards of service that Californians expect from their state government, Bosler wrote in a letter in September to DMV Director Jean Shiomoto. The audit is still ongoing, but Shiomoto has since announced she will retire at the end of the year. Facebook

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Californias legislative analyst, after decades of nonpartisan research for lawmakers, calls it a career Legislative Analyst Mac Taylor, who has led the state research unit since 2008, will retire on Dec. 31. (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Only five people have led the independent research office of the California Legislature since its creation in 1941. And each of them has had a pretty simple mantra to live by in reviewing public policy proposals and government programs: Call it like you see it. The job of any analyst, to me, is you maintain that nonpartisanship, Legislative Analyst Mac Taylor said. Taylor, 65, will retire from the post at the end of December after a four-decade career with the research team that began, as he likes to tell it, just after the passage of the landmark property tax rollback, Proposition 13, in 1978. He became the leader of the office, with the title of legislative analyst, in October 2008. Two months later, state government found itself in arguably the worst fiscal crisis in its history  a projected shortfall that ultimately grew to $42 billion by the following winter. There were forces beyond our control, Taylor said of that time. But dont underestimate the policy changes that were made afterward. Those changes, most notably a boost in taxes paid by high-income earners and a robust state budget cash reserve fund, have helped lead to successive years of fully funded government services. The state is projected to have some $24 billion in reserves by the end of the current fiscal year. Taylor announced his intention earlier to step down this year. Leaders from both houses of the Legislature select the analyst, who leads a staff of almost five dozen researchers. The office provides in-depth reports on pending legislation, as well as on broader policy topics like education and healthcare, and produces an independent analysis for every proposed ballot measure. A succession of lawmakers and governors alike have praised or panned the work of the Legislative Analysts Office based on their own political worldview. Taylor said his staff is mindful that they work for legislators, but try to ignore the rhetoric that follows the release of a major report. People are going to do what theyre going to do with our information, he said. They dont always like it, but they appreciate that we give them our best advice. Taylor oversaw a transformation in the way the Legislative Analysts Office distributes its information, embracing the release of research reports through social media instead of relying on traditional printed copies and journalist roundtable events. But he said the work of the researchers has remained largely unchanged through the decades. Having an independent take on things, I think, is good for the Legislature, he said. No replacement for Taylor has been announced, which means a short transition for his eventual successor before Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom sends his first budget proposal to lawmakers in early January. Taylor, who lives in the Sacramento suburbs, said he will honor the tradition of his predecessors in stepping away from public policy debates in order to give the new analyst space to lead the team as he or she sees fit. He said he hopes to travel in the coming years and spend time with his children who have moved to the East Coast. Forty years in state government, Taylor said in why he was stepping aside now. Isnt that enough? Facebook

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Gov. Jerry Brown sues to save California sentencing laws By Don Thompson, Associated Press (Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press) Outgoing Gov. Jerry Brown sued Thursday to protect one of his signature actions in office, a voter-approved measure that allows most prison inmates to seek earlier release and participate in rehabilitation programs. His administration filed a lawsuit challenging a pending 2020 initiative that seeks to toughen criminal penalties as part of an effort to roll back reforms adopted by voters within the last decade. Browns lawsuit in Sacramento County Superior Court contends the measure lacked enough valid signatures to overturn a previously approved constitutional amendment. County officials and California Secretary of State Alex Padilla certified the signatures in July but said they were submitted too late to qualify for last months election. The lawsuit names Padilla and the ballot measures official proponent, Nina Salarno Besselman, president of the advocacy group Crime Victims United. Padilla said the measure exceeded the required roughly 366,000 valid signatures, equal to 5% of votes cast for governor in 2014. Browns lawsuit says he used the wrong threshold. It says changing the state Constitution requires 8%, or more than 585,400 signatures. That makes the pending initiative more than 150,000 signatures short, the lawsuit says. Hes wrong, said Jeff Flint, a spokesman for the campaign backing the measure. He predicted a judge will be reluctant to reject a measure that already has qualified for the ballot. The secretary of state told us how many signatures are required, and thats how many we collected, Flint said. Padillas office did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The measure would reverse reforms adopted by voters through Proposition 47 in 2014 and Proposition 57 in 2016. Proposition 57 allows most inmates to seek earlier paroles, and Proposition 47 reduced some drug and property crimes from felonies to misdemeanors. The combination has helped keep Californias inmate population below a population cap set by federal judges. Corrections department spokeswoman Vicky Waters said the measure gives corrections and parole officials broad discretion to protect our communities and fashion a rational system of rehabilitation and punishment. This new initiative unlawfully seeks to supplant the departments constitutional authority to implement these critical reforms to our criminal justice system. The pending initiative would shorten the list of crimes that qualify for earlier parole and change some theft crimes from misdemeanors back to felonies. It would also increase the number of crimes for which DNA is collected, a list that was limited when some crimes went from felonies to misdemeanors. Those supporting the tougher penalties say easing criminal penalties has increased the number of dangerous criminals on the streets, but those backing the changes say they have helped reduce mass incarceration and rehabilitate convicted criminals. Facebook

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California Supreme Court orders records unsealed in pardon of ex-state Sen. Roderick Wright Former state Sen. Roderick Wright (Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times) The California Supreme Court has granted a request to unseal court records involving Gov. Jerry Browns decision last month to pardon former state Sen. Roderick Wright for felony convictions involving lying about living in his legislative district, officials said Thursday. The court order was in response to a request by the nonpartisan First Amendment Coalition, which argued that the public has a right to know what information went into the governors decision to grant clemency to Wright. This is an important victory for public access to court files involving the exercise of executive clemency, said coalition spokesman Glen A. Smith. We are gratified the court has recognized that these decisions should be subject to the same public access rules that apply to other judicial records under California law. The court gave Browns office until Jan. 2 to redact confidential material before giving the court documents that can be released to the public. The court files submitted by the governors office include letters of support for a pardon and an internal review of Wrights case. The court denied a motion to unseal the records of all clemency cases but left open consideration of requests on other individual cases. Browns office is currently evaluating the courts decision, said spokesman Brian Ferguson. The governor argued against unsealing records in a recent court filing that said confidentiality is consistent with historical practice and is supported by state law. In pardoning Wright on Nov. 22, the governor wrote: He has shown that since his release from custody, he has lived an honest and upright life, exhibited good moral character, and conducted himself as a law abiding citizen. Facebook

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California political watchdog agency fines BART, urges prosecution over using public funds for campaign A Bay Area Rapid Transit train leaves the station in Oakland in this 2013 file photo. (Ben Margot / AP) Californias state political watchdog agency on Thursday imposed a $7,500 fine against the Bay Area Rapid Transit District and called for a possible criminal or civil prosecution over allegations the district used public resources to campaign for a 2016 bond measure. The state Fair Political Practices Commission levied an administrative fine against BART for its failure to disclose spending on YouTube videos, social media posts and text messages to promote Measure RR, which authorized $3.5 billion in general obligation bonds. Though the panel lacks authority to seek criminal charges over the misuse of public funds, it also urged county district attorneys in the BART service area and the state attorney general to pursue possible criminal or civil charges over the spending of taxpayer dollars for campaign purposes, Commission Chairwoman Alice Germond said. It is the concept of misusing public funds that I think we all here are very disturbed about, and we want to send a warning and not create a precedent that is a minor, little slap on the wrist, Germond said, adding that the referral to criminal prosecutors would further send a message that this is wrong. Commissioner Brian Hatch also called for the state Legislature to consider granting the FPPC power to go after public agencies that spend taxpayer money on campaigns. Sen. Steve Glazer (D-Orinda) called on the agency to increase the fine to the maximum level of $33,375. The proposed $7,500 fine represents a slap on the wrist for a very serious violation of the law and the publics trust, Glazer said in a letter to the panel. In supporting the fine recommended by the staff, Germond said BART has agreed to pay the penalty. Somebody did something wrong and they have admitted it, she said. A staff report said there were factors in favor of a fine below the maximum. Although the Commission considers BARTs violations to be serious, the absence of any evidence of an intention to conceal, deceive, or mislead; the voluntary filing of the delinquent campaign statement; and the absence of a prior record are mitigating, the report said. Facebook

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California police union seeks state Supreme Court review of new law disclosing internal investigation records Los Angeles Police Department officers. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times) A police union is asking the California Supreme Court to block the release of internal officer investigations before a new state law takes effect next year. The San Bernardino County Sheriffs Employees Benefit Assn. filed a petition Tuesday asking justices to rule that only investigations of incidents that occur after Jan. 1 would be available under the law  and not those the department has on file from years prior. The litigation comes after this years passage of Senate Bill 1421, which opens to the public for the first time internal investigations of officer shootings and other major uses of force, along with confirmed cases of sexual assault and lying while on duty. The law goes into effect Jan. 1, and the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department has told the union it intends to make available in response to public records requests all the information it has. The union is very concerned about any plans to retroactively apply Senate Bill 1421, Grant Ward, the unions president, said in a statement. We believe retroactive application violates our members rights and we hope the California Supreme Court will consider the serious issues raised by our legal challenge. The bills author, Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), does not agree with the unions interpretation. She has said her legislation should apply to all the records in a police departments possession because the law simply declared that affected records were no longer confidential. If the record exists, its disclosable, Skinner said. A decision on what records will be available under the law is key to how far-reaching it will be. If the court restricts access to incidents that occurred prior to 2019, those cases will not be subject to public scrutiny. The police union in San Bernardino County is not the only one raising concerns about the law. Earlier this month, Los Angeles Police Department Chief Michel Moore sent a letter to Skinner expressing concern that his agency would be overwhelmed if the law required the department to disclose older incidents. Even if the law only applied to the previous five years, Moore wrote, it could take nearly 300,000 hours of work to comply with its provisions. The LAPD operates with a guiding principle of Reverence for the Law; as such, we will diligently comply with SB 1421, Moore wrote. We maintain, however, that a retroactive implementation of SB 1421 will be exceptionally burdensome and would require significant reallocation of front-line investigative personnel. Skinner said if complying with the law becomes untenable for law enforcement agencies that maintain records for a long time, she would consider modifications. But she said agencies did not raise this concern during discussion over the bill. SB 1421 went through multiple committee hearings, multiple floor debates, extensive opportunity for all parties to weigh in on concerns with its structure, she said. That was not an issue that was raised by law enforcement at the time. Facebook

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Gov. Brown warns of backlash for Republicans in 2020 if Obamacare repeal is upheld Gov. Jerry Brown at the National Press Club in April. (Alex Wong / Getty Images) Gov. Jerry Brown warned Republicans on Tuesday that repeal of the Affordable Care Act would devastate the partys political chances in the 2020 election. Brown, speaking at a Sacramento Press Club event moderated by Los Angeles Times columnist George Skelton and Brown family historian Miriam Pawel, said a federal judges ruling last week to strike down the 2010 law  if upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court  will build such a backlash that the Democrats will not only take over the Senate, theyll win the presidency and will win with the kind of momentum, particularly on the issue of healthcare, that [the law] will be replaced probably with something even better. The governor, who leaves office in less than three weeks, said he did not believe the ruling by a Texas judge would ultimately prevail. I think the decision will probably be overturned, Brown said. Few states have embraced the law championed by former President Obama more than California, both through its healthcare exchange, Covered California, and by expanding access to government-funded services under Medi-Cal. Some 12 million Californians now receive healthcare through Medi-Cal, and Brown said a final ruling affecting the federal dollars that subsidize that care would be a serious blow. California would not be able to afford it without the subsidy, the governor said. Facebook

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Bars in Los Angeles, San Francisco could stay open until 4 a.m. under new bill A bar in Sherman Oaks (acuna-hansen) For the third year in a row, a California lawmaker is trying to keep bars open until 4 a.m. State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) is reintroducing legislation that would allow Los Angeles, San Francisco and seven other cities to extend the sales of alcohol in bars, clubs and restaurants by an additional two hours. Nightlife brings people together, fosters creativity and innovation, supports small businesses, and creates middle-class jobs, Wiener said in a statement. Its time to embrace our nighttime economy and give our cities the tools they need to foster the best nightlife possible. Last year, Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a similar bill by Wiener, writing: I believe we have enough mischief from midnight to 2 without adding two more hours of mayhem. Should this years measure, Senate Bill 58, advance through the Legislature, Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom would decide whether to sign it into law. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has endorsed SB 58, saying the city should have more flexibility than it does now. Every community has its own needs, and cities should be able to make informed decisions about what nightlife hours make sense for residents, visitors, and neighborhoods, Garcetti said in a statement. The bill would create a five-year pilot program where Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, West Hollywood, Long Beach, Coachella, Cathedral City and Palm Springs could decide to allow restaurants and bars within their cities to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. with the approval of the state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Facebook

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Bars in Los Angeles and San Francisco could stay open until 4 a.m. under new bill A bar in Sherman Oaks. (Acuna-Hansen) For the third year in a row, a California lawmaker is trying to keep bars open until 4 a.m. State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) is reintroducing legislation that would allow Los Angeles, San Francisco and seven other cities to extend the sales of alcohol in bars, clubs and restaurants by an additional two hours. Nightlife brings people together, fosters creativity and innovation, supports small businesses and creates middle-class jobs, Wiener said in a statement. Its time to embrace our nighttime economy and give our cities the tools they need to foster the best nightlife possible. Last year, Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a similar bill by Wiener, writing: I believe we have enough mischief from midnight to 2 without adding two more hours of mayhem. Should this years measure, Senate Bill 58, advance through the Legislature, Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom would decide whether to sign it into law. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has endorsed SB 58, saying the city should have more flexibility than it does now. Every community has its own needs, and cities should be able to make informed decisions about what nightlife hours make sense for residents, visitors and neighborhoods, Garcetti said in a statement. The bill would create a five-year pilot program where Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, West Hollywood, Long Beach, Coachella, Cathedral City and Palm Springs could decide to allow restaurants and bars within their cities to serve alcohol until 4 a.m. with the approval of the state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Facebook

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Californias DMV director announces retirement amid problems with motor voter program (Kent Nishamura/Los Angeles Times) The director of the California Department of Motor Vehicles will retire at years end with a number of questions unanswered about the implementation of a major voter registration system and long wait times experienced by customers for much of the past summer. Jean Shiomoto will not continue in her current role as Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom takes office, and announced to staff several weeks ago her intent to retire at the end of the year after 38 years in state service, spokesman Armando Botello said in an email to The Times on Friday. Newsoms transition team did not immediately respond to a request for comment on who might lead the department in 2019. Shiomoto was appointed DMV director by Gov. Jerry Brown in the fall of 2013, having served in prior leadership roles with the department. DMV officials have been sharply criticized by lawmakers in recent months for delays in serving customers at its field offices across the state. Last week, DMV officials revealed errors in registering California voters for the November election  mistakes that followed a series of problems in the rollout of the states new motor voter registration system. Secretary of State Alex Padilla last week said he had lost confidence in Shiomotos leadership as a result of the voting registration problems. Facebook

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New law could break the stalemate over housing on the site of a near-vacant Cupertino mall By Liam Dillon For more than a decade, developers have tried to build new housing on the site of an all-but-empty mall in Cupertino, a city in the heart of Silicon Valley and home to Apple headquarters. A well-organized group of neighbors, upset about traffic, building heights and the potential loss of the communitys suburban lifestyle, turned away every plan. Now, for the first time, the stalemate might be broken  thanks to a decision made in the state Capitol. In an effort to address Californias housing affordability problem, legislators passed a law last year that requires cities and counties to approve housing projects if they comply with local zoning rules and other standards, forcing some resistant communities to agree to new homebuilding. In September, the city of Cupertino, citing the state law, approved developer Sand Hill Property Co.s proposal to build an office park and more than 2,400 homes where the Vallco Shopping Mall sits. Read More Facebook

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Local government was a last bastion for struggling California Republicans. Not anymore By Mark Z. Barabak Theres no shortage of watery metaphors to describe the disaster that befell California Republicans this midterm election. A blue wave. A Democratic tsunami. But the most apt may be a flood, with the casualties steadily rising as the vote count climbed in the days and weeks following Nov. 6. Eventually half the GOP congressional delegation was washed away, along with the entire slate of statewide Republican candidates. In Sacramento, Democrats claimed 29 of 40 state Senate seats and seized three-quarters of the 80-member Assembly  the largest number since 1883, when Chester A. Arthur was serving in the White House. Read More Facebook

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For the Republicans left in Californias Legislature, fewer lawmakers will have to do more work By John Myers From January to late summer every year, the California Legislature is a perpetual motion machine. And in the new year, the people most likely to struggle in keeping up will be Republicans, vastly outnumbered but still responsible for representing millions of the states residents. There are 22 standing committees in the state Senate, plus at least a dozen more subcommittees or special committees. And after Novembers election, only 11 Republican senators will be left to divvy up the work. To the victors go the spoils. To the vanquished go the extra assignments. Read More Facebook

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Californias DMV failed to finish registering 329 new voters before November election (Los Angeles Times) Officials at the California Department of Motor Vehicles said Friday that the agency failed to send information for 329 new voters to state elections officers in time for the November election, the latest revelation in a string of mishaps regarding voter registration. Secretary of State Alex Padilla responded with a blistering letter, calling on Gov. Jerry Brown or Gov.-elect Gavin Newsom to replace Jean Shiomoto, the DMV director. The Director of DMV has lost my confidence and trust, Padilla wrote. In all, the agency revealed that 589 mailed voter registration records that should have been processed under election deadlines werent sent to Californias secretary of state until late November, including forms from 260 drivers who had intended to update their address on existing voter registration records. The DMV had been instructed to not send registration forms that came in after Oct. 22, but the voters in question had forms that were postmarked before the deadline. In some cases, when the postmark wasnt legible, the agency said, documents inside indicated the voter had intended to finish their registration in time for the Nov. 6 election. The DMV recognizes the pause in transmittals was an error and affected the timing of the registration of the 589 individuals referenced above relative to the November election, Shiomoto wrote in a letter to Padilla on Friday. The pause was due to a misunderstanding on the part of the department, for which we take responsibility. Those who were trying to update their address for voter registration would not have been blocked from casting ballots. But officials said its unclear whether any of the 329 new voters were able to participate in the election. Shiomoto said in her letter that DMV will work with elections officials. The errors were not related to previous DMV mistakes about registering voters, problems associated with the rollout of the states new motor voter law. In those cases, multiple registration forms were sent to local elections offices for some voters, some people were assigned the wrong political party preference and others who are noncitizens were incorrectly placed on the list of registered voters. DMV officials have yet to respond to questions posed by The Times over the last several weeks about who knew of those mistakes and when. Facebook

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Newsom appoints a labor advocate and a former staffer as his chief deputy Cabinet secretaries By Taryn Luna A labor advocate and a San Francisco political operative have accepted positions in Gov.-elect Gavin Newsoms new administration. Angie Wei, a Capitol insider with deep ties to organized labor in California, will serve as a chief deputy Cabinet secretary with a focus on policy development. As a legislative director and chief of staff at the California Labor Federation, Wei has represented more than 1,200 unions and 2.1 million workers in Capitol fights over a host of policy issues, including drug-pricing transparency and paid family leave. The governor-elect also tapped Jason Elliott, a policy advisor to Newsom during his time as mayor of San Francisco and a chief of staff to San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee, as another chief deputy Cabinet secretary overseeing executive branch operations. Elliott and Wei will serve under Ana Matosantos, Newsoms previously
Two types of voters have gotten out-sized scrutiny in the run-up to this years midterm election  blue-collar whites who moved to Donald Trump in 2016 and college-educated suburbanites who have shunned the president ever since.

Ohios 12th Congressional District has big batches of both, which is one reason Tuesdays special election there has commanded attention from strategists in both parties, even though the winner will fill the seat for only a few months.

Another reason: Democrats, once again, have a decent chance of winning an election in a district that was considered safely Republican. If Danny OConnor, the Democratic candidate, does prevail, the gloom already settling around congressional Republicans will deepen measurably.

Even if the Republican, Troy Balderson, pulls out a victory, the GOP celebration may be muted as the district, in the central part of the state, tilts so heavily their way that the race never should have been close.

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The Ohio special election tops the bill, but several other states vote Tuesday as well, with primaries that will provide clues about each partys path. In both Michigan and Kansas, voters will choose nominees for governor in races that pit establishment-backed candidates against those with more fervent ideologies  liberal Democrats and Trump-style Republicans.

Get the latest news from the nations capital on Essential Washington >> 

In Michigan, Gretchen Whitmer, a former state legislator with backing from labor unions and womens groups, has an unquestionably liberal record. But hers wasnt the hand that Sen. Bernie Sanders clasped on Sunday at a campaign rally in Detroit. Instead, the Vermont independent touted the progressive credentials of Abdul El-Sayed, the 33-year-old former chief of the citys health department, who has run determinedly to Whitmers left.

The contest marks the latest to feature a candidate from the partys Sanders wing against a more conventional Democrat. So far, the further left candidates have mostly lost, but they did win a major upset in June when Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez won a congressional primary in New York City, defeating a member of the Democratic congressional leadership.

Whitmer has touted her work to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, a move that has provided coverage for some 600,000 state residents, government figures show. But she has opposed calls for a statewide single-payer plan pushed by El-Sayed, saying she wont endorse buzz phrases that would require major tax increases.

A third candidate, Shri Thanedar, has complicated the race. The novice politician but successful entrepreneur has dumped millions of his own money into the campaign. He also favors a single-payer health plan.

If elected, El-Sayed would be the nations first Muslim governor, a status that has added to the attraction for some in the anti-Trump resistance.

The opposite case has roiled the Republican campaign in Kansas, where the race pits the establishment against a candidate from the right, and tests Trumps appeal among his supporters.

Incumbent Gov. Jeff Colyer took over in January when his predecessor, Sam Brownback, stepped down to take an ambassadors post. Colyer wants a full term of his own. But hes being challenged by Kris Kobach, a favorite of Trumps who has promised to run an even more conservative administration than Brownbacks.

Against the wishes of the Republican Governors Assn., which mostly exists to back incumbents, and some White House staff members, President Trump jumped into the race on Monday with a tweet endorsing Kobach, whom he labeled a strong and early supporter of mine.

Some Republican operatives fear that Kobach, who became well known for crusading against illegal immigrants and has persistently pushed debunked claims of widespread voter fraud, will turn off moderately conservative voters. That could not only risk handing the governors race to a Democrat, but also endanger two Republican congressional seats in the state.

Former Sen. Bob Dole of Kansas responded to Trump with a tweet endorsing Colyer, calling him our best choice to win tomorrow AND in the fall. Trump, however, has a record of swaying Republican primaries with his tweets this year, so Kobach may now be the favorite in the race.

The president has had little success, however, in general elections. In March, for example, he flew to Pennsylvania to campaign for Rick Saccone, the Republican in another closely watched special congressional election. Saccone went on to lose to Conor Lamb, a Democrat.

This weekend, Trump flew to Ohio to campaign for Balderson. His presence could help in the more rural parts of the district, where Trump in 2016 did better than Republicans typically do. Balderson will need a strong turnout of white, blue-collar Trump supporters.

But whatever gains Balderson gets from those voters could be offset by losses in the more populated part of the district, the suburbs of Columbus, the state capital. Many Republican voters in that part of the district dislike Trump.

That would include the states Republican governor, John Kasich, who used to represent the area in Congress and who has consistently feuded with Trump.

In an interview Sunday on ABCs This Week, Kasich said Balderson had told him that he didnt invite Trump to campaign for him.

Trumps appearance could hurt Balderson because the chaos that seems to surround Donald Trump has unnerved a lot of people, Kasich said.

Suburban women in particular here are the ones that are really turned off, he added. The fact that the race remains close is really kind of shocking because this should be just a slam dunk, and its not, he said.

David.Lauter@latimes.com

For more on Politics and Policy, follow me @DavidLauter
When state Sen. Tony Mendoza resigned from office in February after sexual harassment allegations surfaced against him, voters in the Artesia Democrats district were tasked with electing his replacement.

What has unfolded in the six months since his departure has left his constituents with a confusing course on Californias political process, and a handful of potential outcomes to fill the Senate seat  including a possibility that the winner of a Tuesday special election runoff could represent the district for just three weeks.

Following Mendozas resignation, a June 5 special election during Californias primary was called to fill his seat through the end of the term. That same day, voters in the district  which is southeast of Los Angeles and includes Montebello, Whittier and Downey  also picked two candidates to advance to the November general election, a contest to fill the seat for a new term starting next year.

Though the slate of 11 candidates  nine Democrats and two Republicans  was the same for both June contests, voters chose two different match-ups for the August special election runoff and November general election.

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Montebello Mayor Vanessa Delgado, a Democrat, and Republican attorney Rita Topalian advanced to Tuesdays special election to decide who will fill Mendozas seat  and be paid  for the rest of his term. Come November, voters will choose between Pico Rivera Mayor Bob Archuleta, a Democrat, and Topalian, who placed first in both contests. (Mendoza decided to run again for his seat and lost, coming in third for the special election and fourth in the primary deciding who would move on to November.)

The different June outcomes could be due to the randomized order of candidates on the ballot  Archuleta, for example, was listed at the top of the ballot for the full-term election, but was seventh in the list of candidates for the special election. Voters also might not have realized they were voting to fill the same seat.

The winner of Tuesdays special election will serve through the end of November, but might only have three weeks to make her voice heard until the Legislature adjourns on Aug. 31, the deadline to pass bills.

Los Angeles voters picked different candidates for the same job 

State Sen. Tony Mendoza, D-Artesia, stands at his desk Jan. 3. (Steve Yeater / Associated Press)

With Topalian in both the special and the general elections, the blue district has two chances to go red  if only temporarily.

Its unclear whether Delgado would have to step down from her current post as mayor if she wins the special election, and if shed be able to resume the role afterward. According to her spokesperson, she would take the Senate seat if she wins, no matter the consequences.

Delgado is also facing a recall threat from residents opposed to her vote in favor of allowing some commercial marijuana businesses to operate in Montebello.

Archuleta and Delgado share a mutual goal: ensuring their party maintains control of the district. Archuleta has asked supporters to back Delgado in the special election, and Delgado is encouraging voters to keep the seat in the Democrats hands.

There have been four special elections called in California this year to replace Democratic legislators who resigned. Three of those resignations  Mendoza, Assemblymen Matt Dababneh of Woodland Hills and Raul Bocanegra of Pacoima  followed sexual misconduct or harassment allegations against the lawmaker. Assemblyman Sebastian Ridley-Thomas of Los Angeles stepped down in December, citing health reasons.

colleen.shalby@latimes.com

Twitter: @cshalby

ALSO:

Results from the California primary

Skelton: Californias special elections are a waste of time and taxpayer money
The Southern Poverty Law Center, an organization that advocates for civil rights, recently agreed to settle a $3.375-million lawsuit and apologize to British activist Maajid Nawaz for listing him on its website as an anti-Islamic extremist.

Nawaz, a former radical who changed his point of view after five years as a political prisoner in Egypt, rejects fundamentalist Islam and identifies as a liberal reform Muslim who works to counter extremism.

Nawaz says his work and the SPLC listing have made him a target of Muslim extremists who want me dead. In a piece written for the Daily Beast, he calls efforts by the regressive left to mislabel anyone who challenges strict Islamic doctrine dangerous: In a Muslim version of the Inquisition, the punishments meted out by these jihadists to Muslims they accuse of heresy are by now so well known that they require no introduction.

Q. Have you ever faced consequences for being at odds with members of a group with which you identify? Like Nawaz, have outsiders made mistaken assertions about your beliefs? How would you advise others in similar circumstances?

We werent asked this, but I am surprised the Southern Poverty Law Center did not quickly apologize and correct their admitted error when it was pointed out to them.

I avoid associating with rigid sectarian groups pushing one strict version of truth and demanding adherence to that worldview in thought, word and deed. Especially now after my retirement from paid work, every manner of association to me is an option, not a demand. Even atheism has an institutional structure and numerous organizations, none of which attract me. Too many emails and meetings!

I recommend this kind of retirement, and wish that everyone would get to experience such after a lifetime of work. Obviously, it would make no sense to align yourself with an organization unless you share its basic aims, but my advice is to seek compatible company and only participate when freedom of thought and inquiry is respected.

Recently I was accused, not by an outsider but by a close relative who is fanatically religious, of being hostile and disrespectful toward Christians. Ordinarily, I would consider the source and ignore this nonsense, but I couldnt let this go unchallenged.

Take it from a lifelong peace activist, an important segment of our small and fragmented movement rests in the faith community. Secular peace groups come and go, but the churches  some denominations more than others  plug along, not always loudly but persistently working for peace here at home and in our foreign dealings. And Im right there because you dont have to believe in a supernatural supreme being to like the man who was called the Prince of Peace.

Turns out when my relative and I ran our numbers going back several years, I had logged much more time in houses of worship and other church spaces, with no evidence of hostility or disrespect available, because there is none.

Roberta Medford

Atheist

Montrose

..

Like many Californians, many Unitarian Universalists come from someplace else. In the faith tradition I was born into, there were numerous times I encountered practical contradictions to the Do unto others as you would have done to yourself and Love your neighbor charges directed from the pulpit. Assumptions were made about the earthly prosecution of perceived transgressions against heaven. As I grew older, I realized that god was often just a convenient straw man for someones own prejudices.

UUs subscribe (if such a rigid term can be ascribed to us) to Seven Principles loosely based on the concepts of the inherent worth and dignity of all people and an understanding of the interdependent connections we share. Therefore the conflicts that arise between us are usually along the lines of Well, you dont respect my inherent worth and dignity enough.

Belief systems centered on a quasi-historical figure and what (he) may or may not have gleaned from a bush, a plate, a snake, or Xenu are problematic because we are quick to over-identify with the individual and confuse his failures with the demands of the god he claims to represent on Earth.

I am lucky never to have been targeted for my religious beliefs, but my counsel to anyone attacked for their beliefs is the same: Consider the source and react  or dont  accordingly.

Marty Barrett, President

Unitarian Universalist Church of the Verdugo Hills (UUVerdugo)

..

The Southern Poverty Law Center is a far-left-wing hate organization that stirs up more discord than it quells. It has on its online hate map a slew of good Christian organizations (right along with many bad groups that everyone despises that seem to be listed to give the organization some legitimacy). Please dont support this pagan institution. It is bad for society and for the love of anyone. It hates.

But if you ask my opinion on matters regarding misinformed opinions of my own faith, let me affirm that this is most assuredly true. Pagans often decry foul regarding Christian positions; calling us hypocrites for sometimes failing in the very areas we claim are sacrosanct. The problem is that Christians will always be hypocrites because our bar is high and we dont always make it. That doesnt mean we arent trying, it just means we are fallible. Pagans, on the other hand, have no bar save that of their own design. They fail miserably, but they have no divine ethical code so they never fall short of being their pagan selves. Yay for them?

I have belonged to several Christian denominations, and you will find they all have certain beliefs that bind Christians together, and you will see we have diverse opinion on many theological issues not clearly annunciated in Scripture. Because of that, we have denominated, and because of that many outsiders criticize what they do not understand. We dont hate each other, we only differ in opinion about some things. Are we allowed that? And Christians differ regarding social issues. Are we allowed, or is it a hate crime to have an opinion? Is child porn evil? Is bestiality gross and damnable? We will probably say Yes! Does the SPLC agree? I dunno. If they do, then are they the same as the haters they despise, or are they popular in their own minds because these sexual perversions arent the accepted ones even unspiritual Americans approve? Im a Christian. I believe certain things because Jesus told me they are the true things to believe. If I am with God I agree, and if I am not of God, I go with the Southern Poverty Law Center and those that hate the things of God and his people.

Rev. Bryan A. Griem

Tujunga
Additional electric vehicle charging stations may be installed throughout Huntington Beach in the near future.

Following a 7-0 City Council vote Monday, City Manager Fred Wilson will iron out the details of potentially increasing charging stations before requests for proposals are sought from vendors.

The stations size and scope will be discussed at a future study session.

Huntington Beach currently has charging stations in the downtown parking structure and at City Hall and the Pier Plaza parking area.

Councilman Patrick Brenden, who proposed the idea, said more charging stations could help attract businesses and expand the citys sales tax base.

When someone plugs in charging stations, they tend to stay and shop longer, Brenden said.

According to data Brenden presented Monday, auto companies such as Porsche, Toyota and Jaguar Land Rover are shifting toward electric vehicles.

Mayor Pro Tem Erik Peterson supported the idea but voiced concern that additional charging stations could eliminate parking spaces for regular vehicles downtown, an area already facing parking issues. Peterson suggested collecting input from city staff and the community.

Councilwoman Jill Hardy suggested contacting utility company Southern California Edison, which launched an electric vehicle pilot program to help increase the availability of fast-charging stations.

Possible exemption to housing law

In other business Monday, the council directed City Attorney Michael Gates to investigate ways to exempt the city from a new law that forces cities that are behind on their housing goals to streamline certain housing projects by eliminating some steps in the approval process.

Senate Bill 35, which was signed by Gov. Jerry Brown last year and went into effect in January, removes the requirement for environmental analysis, conditional use permits and other entitlements granted by the Planning Commission.

Back in Dec. 4 when sworn in as mayor, I vowed to maintain and retain local control, said Mayor Mike Posey, who proposed seeking exemption.

Gates will report to the council about the topic in closed session within 45 days.

City to form Harbor Commission

The council also unanimously approved creating a commission to oversee Huntington Harbour.

The Harbor Commission will offer input to the City Council about residential, recreational and commercial uses in the area, including watercraft.

Huntington Harbour, in the northwest corner of the city bordering Seal Beach, includes five islands and a network of channels. It connects to Anaheim Bay through a waterway.

Priscella.Vega@latimes.com

Twitter: @vegapriscella
A Fountain Valley man was sentenced to three years in federal prison for his role in a narcotics distribution ring that illegally imported a synthetic opiate from China to produce pills that were sold across the United States.

U.S. District Judge S. James Otero also ordered Dylan Simpson to serve four years of supervised release after his prison term.

Simpson, 28, pleaded guilty in June 2017 to possession to distribute methamphetamine, a felony charge that typically carries a five-year minimum prison sentence, according to federal court records.

Simpsons attorney, Michael Bruggeman, argued for a lesser sentence, writing in court documents that his client was merely a delivery driver paid $40 per delivery and was the lowest-level and least culpable member of the four-person criminal conspiracy.

Federal prosecutors say Gary Resnik of Long Beach was the ringleader of the group, which also included Joseph Stanley of Huntington Beach and Christopher Bowen of Los Angeles.

Bowen was sentenced in May to more than 26 years behind bars, and Stanley in July received a year of federal probation for their roles in the scheme.

Resnik, who was sentenced in July to more than 26 years in federal prison, admitted to importing chemicals, including acetyl fentanyl  a drug similar to the powerful and highly addictive opioid fentanyl  and pill presses from China to manufacture the pills, according to prosecutors.

Acetyl fentanyl is sometimes called fake heroin, but its more potent than that drug, prosecutors said.

The pills, which were designed to look like legitimate pharmaceuticals, were made in a Long Beach storage unit and a Baldwin Park house and then sold, according to court records.

Between June 2015 and March 2016, the ring sold about 40,000 pills each month at a price of $4 to $8 per pill, prosecutors said.

hannah.fry@latimes.com

Twitter: @HannahFryTCN
A doctor in the UC Irvine School of Medicine pleaded not guilty Friday to charges stemming from allegations that he secretly filmed people in the bathroom of his home in Orange.

Dr. Duc Minh Vu, 33, is charged with 13 misdemeanor counts of disorderly conduct, according to Orange County Superior Court records.

If convicted, he could face up to six years and six months in county jail, according to prosecutors.

Vu is identified on the UCI medical school website as a clinical instructor in the neurology department. UCI Health spokesman John Murray said Monday that Vu is on leave and has no contact with patients.

It isnt clear how long Vu has been on leave or whether he is being paid during his time off.

UCI was not previously aware of this behavior, which did not take place on university property, Murray said.

Prosecutors allege Vu placed two concealed cameras in the restroom of his home  one that appeared to be a black USB charger and another disguised as a digital clock. More than a dozen guests and roommates were secretly filmed by the cameras, prosecutors said.

One of the people discovered the cameras on Aug. 5, 2017, and called the Orange Police Department, prosecutors said.

Vu is expected in court Sept. 10 for a pretrial hearing.

Susan Wolbarst, a spokeswoman for the California Medical Board, said Vus medical license is unaffected so far because he has not been convicted.

KTLA contributed to this report.

hannah.fry@latimes.com

Twitter: @HannahFryTCN
On Feb. 14, a gunman on the campus of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., killed 17 students and staff members and injured 17 others.

In response, the school hired safety experts to help determine ways to avoid another attack. Among the recommendations of the experts was to mandate that all backpacks have a clear back to enable contents to be in plain view.

In no time, many students decided that their privacy was more important than this safety measure and they found workarounds to hide the contents of their backpacks. The cat-and-mouse game continued recently when the experts decided that any backpack was acceptable but that students would have to pass through metal detectors to get into the school, according to the Orlando Sun-Sentinel.

Metal detectors wont help. Nor will the enhanced fencing, the new I.D. cards that must be worn on a lanyard, the 52 additional cameras they have installed or any of the other false sense-of-security props being implemented.

The next school shooter at any middle or high school will be a student at the school. Thats as true here in the Newport-Mesa Unified School District as it is in Florida. The student will plan the attack and even drop hints that its coming. Those are real profile items that have been repeated in attacks across the country.

At the NMUSD school board meeting on June 26, attendees were given a School and Workplace Safety presentation that included many of the recommendations being considered at Parkland. There wasnt a single word about profiling potential attackers.

The experts in the district can mandate all the badges they want or start fingerprinting guests or conduct retina scans.

Have at it. The truth is that if anyone is going to shoot up a school it is quite likely to be someone who has a perfect right to be there and will go about his or her business completely under the radar.

This whole idea of an intruder hopping a security fence with two AK-47s under a trench coat is going the way of the fax machine.

In order to reduce or stop attacks, school officials need to move upstream and stop the attackers before they start. Their typical profiles are documented and well-known, apparently to everyone except the folks in the district, who seem to want to spend precious education resources on tangible, feel-good security items instead of developing a rigorous troubled teen identification program that will be far more effective.

The key to stopping the next shooter lies not in more gizmos, but more vigilance. But the absence of any psychological component to the districts safety proposals underscores the need for new trustees and new ways of thinking in this election year.

Costa Mesa resident Steve Smith is a former Daily Pilot columnist.
Editors note: This is third in a series of interviews columnist David Hansen is doing with Laguna Beach City Council candidates who are challenging incumbents in November.

For Allison Mathews, her political awakening started when she was 8 years old and pulled out of elementary school by the Secret Service.



For the record: This article originally misspelled the last name of William Twaddell as Twaddle.

It was 1971 in Rhode Island and her cousin, Daniel Ellsberg, had just released the Pentagon Papers.

I was a very young girl, she said. I was yanked out of school by the Secret Service, and my parents were questioned because he had called us the night before the release of the papers. And he told my mother he was going away for a while and something big was going to happen.

Mathews and her siblings had only recently moved to Rhode Island from Switzerland because her father, James Twaddell, was a U.S. diplomat in Geneva.

It was a very tumultuous, scary time, Mathews said. We were separated from our parents, and we were asked questions, and it was frightening to see the government have that kind of power.

Fast forward 47 years, and Mathews now uses her childhood experiences as ballast for a life of involvement and positive change. She is running for one of three open seats on the Laguna Beach City Council in November.

She knows she is considered an outsider. Mathews has only lived in Laguna for less than two years, but shes been on the citys Affordable Housing Task Force since February and is eager to do more.

Its the way she was raised.

Ive been working on political campaigns for as long as I could stuff an envelope, she said. We always had formal dinners every night, and the topic of conversation was twofold: service and politics.

To say that Mathews comes from a political family is an understatement.

Her father ran for the U.S. Senate in 1974.

Her uncle, William Twaddell, was the ambassador to Nigeria and career member of the Senior Foreign Service. He served many assignments and was also the special assistant to Secretary of State Cyrus Vance during the late 1970s.

Her family is good friends with U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) . Mathews also worked on the campaign for U.S. Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.).

When she was in high school, her family took in Max Kennedy, son of former U.S. Atty. Gen. Robert F. Kennedy. He lived with them for 18 months.

Mathews said her upbringing was never about name-dropping but what you were going to do to help others  now.

For instance, on my 18th birthday my father got me out of bed, and before he even said happy birthday, we went to register to vote, she said. Thats what we did in our household. There was no excuse for not being politically involved and informed.

Which is why the first thing Mathews did when she arrived in Laguna was join the League of Women Voters of Orange County and apply for city committees. On her application for the Housing Task Force, she also checked off the Environmental Sustainability Committee, Housing and Human Services Committee and the Arts Commission as options.

Shes eager, affable and a quick study. Shes also pinpointed some things about Laguna that shed like to improve.

Rent seems so disproportional to what anyone can really afford, she said. Most people in Laguna spend 80% of their income on rent. That should not be acceptable in any town. And I want our teachers and our firefighters and our nurses to be able to live here. I want to be fair to the LCAD students. Where the hell are they going to live?

Mathews is realistic enough to know that ideas alone are not enough. Change will take time. There will be compromises.

But she will not apologize for fighting inertia and entrenchment.

People sometimes give me a bit of the hairy eyeball, like exactly who are you? she said. Again, coming from New England, I get that because we dont like outsiders either. So the only thing I can do is reassure them that Im not going anywhere.

I think what we need are some positive ideas. Stop the tribalism. I guarantee you that a few easy fixes here and there will make a huge difference. Its not going to get done overnight. It will be a process. We could be a prototype for the rest of Southern California.

She came to Laguna because of her husband of 26 years, accomplished sculptor Jack Mathews, who needed to be closer to the Hollywood studios. They have three children and live in the Top of the World neighborhood.

More than anything she wants to help. Its a DNA thing. Otherwise, she feels a little claustrophobic.

Im in no position to go around and shake trees. What Im focusing on is pruning. Lets prune back a little bit. People tend to go with whats familiar, and whats familiar right now is the way things have always been, clearly.

In the weeks ahead, Mathews will join the rest of the many candidates trying to make their positions known.

Homeless? Yes, shes worked directly with the homeless and has a clear point of view.

Parking? Yes, she wants to tackle it because the congestion downtown is absurd.

Zoning? Yes, she wants to rethink the details because some of the rules just dont make sense.

In many ways, with her deep, lifelong political experience, Mathews is the expert consultant that the city doesnt have to pay.

It would just have to vote her in.

David Hansen is a writer and Laguna Beach resident. He can be reached at hansen.dave@gmail.com.
Syria on Tuesday accused Israel of assassinating a top Syrian rocket scientist over the weekend, heightening the growing tensions between the two countries as Syrian government troops restore control over areas bordering Israel.

Aziz Asbar, a research director at Syrias Scientific Studies and Research Center, was killed Saturday by an explosive device targeting his car in the town of Masyaf in Syrias Hama province, according to Syrias official news agency SANA.

The center has long been linked by intelligence agencies to Syrias chemical weapons program, and Israeli warplanes are suspected to have targeted the centers facility on at least two occasions over the last year, in September and July.

Syrian media reports blamed Israels Mossad intelligence agency for the killing and said Asbar had survived two previous assassination attempts, also by Israeli agents. According to the al-Watan daily newspaper, he was killed because of his important work on Syrian defense systems.

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Yet again the Israeli enemy has assassinated one of the greatest Syrian minds, al-Watan said in a commentary on Tuesday.

Also on Tuesday, the New York Times quoted an unnamed official with a Middle Eastern intelligence organization as confirming that Israel was responsible for the attack. The newspaper said Asbar had been collaborating with the commander of Irans Quds Force, Gen. Qasem Soleimani, on the production of precision-guided missiles in Syria.

An Israeli government spokesman declined to comment on the allegations.

If the assassination was carried out by Mossad, it was the latest in a long line of Israeli attacks targeting Syrian weapons capabilities and development. Israel has carried out more than 100 airstrikes against targets in Syria since 2012, aimed either at Iranian military facilities or at attempts to transfer sophisticated weapons to the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon.

The Syrian Scientific Research Center has long been a focus of international efforts to curtail Syrias capacity to develop weapons of mass destruction, including chemical and biological weapons. A branch of the center outside Damascus was among the targets of U.S. strikes against Syria in April, and the institution has been sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department since 2005.

After the Syrian government carried out what independent inspectors said was a sarin gas attack that killed as many as a 100 people in the town of Khan Sheikhoun in 2017, the United States also sanctioned 271 individuals associated with the center.

Asbar was not among them, perhaps because he was associated with Syrias missile program rather than the development of chemical weapons.

According to al-Watan, Syrian authorities had twice detained cells of local suspects allegedly recruited by Mossad who were engaged in monitoring Asbars movements. A faction of the main Al Qaeda affiliate in Syria, called Abu Amara, claimed responsibility but was working on behalf of Israel, the newspaper said.

Syrias missile development is a top concern of Israeli officials, in part because of their worries concerning the expanding influence of Iran there.

The attack comes as Syrian troops regain territory along the 1974 demarcation line separating the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights from Syria. The two countries have been in a state of war since 1967, when Israel occupied the Golan Heights, and although no shots have been fired since the 1974 cease-fire, Syrian President Bashar Assad continues to press for the return of the territory.

Syrian troops returned to the Golan Heights area last week after rebels who had controlled the area surrendered, restoring the status quo that had prevailed before the Syrian civil war. Their standoff now, however, has been further complicated by the extensive presence in Syria of Iran, which maintains advisors and allied militias embedded with the Syrian army.

Russia has been working to bring back United Nations truce observers into the area, but Israel continues to assert that it will take whatever action it sees fit to prevent Iran from establishing a permanent foothold in Syria, along its borders and elsewhere.

In an interview last week with Israel Radio, the countrys minister for regional cooperation, Tzachi Hanegbi, cited Israels fears about the development of Irans missile capabilities in Syria as a top concern.

What we have laid down as a red line is military intervention and entrenchment by Iran in Syria, and not necessarily on our border, he said.
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Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2018 > Tenth BRICS Summit  Urging for an Open World Economy

by R.G. Gidadhubli

The BRICS Summit, held on July 25, 2018 in the South African city of Johannesburg, was an important event as it marked the tenth anniversary of the formation of the grouping. In fact it was 20 years back that the leaders of Russia, India and China (RIC) conceived the formation of this regional trade organisation, somewhat comparable to the European Economic Union. Subsequently, the RIC became BRIC when Brazil joined this organisation and BRICS with the addition of South Africa. This regional organisation has emerged as one of the major trading blocks in the world constituting about 40 per cent of the world population. There is close and consistent relations among the members and summit meetings are held regularly attended by the heads of all the member-states; these have strengthened this organisation. Turkey is not a BRICS member, but Turkish President Erdogan attended the Summit in his role as the Chairman of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). With its close relations with Russia there could be speculation whether it could be another member joining BRICS in the future.

The salient outcome of the Tenth Summit was that a formal communique was signed in which all the five countries unanimously supported for an open world economy based on the principles of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and insisted that all WTO members need to abide by WTO rules. This proposal is particularly significant because there was great concern which was expressed by the BRICS members in stating we recognise that the multilateral trading system is facing unprece-dented challenges.

It is a matter of global importance and signifi-cance that even as the focus of BRICS was on trade and economic cooperation, the Summit Declaration stated: We deplore the continued terrorist attacks, including in some BRICS countries. We condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations wherever committed and by whomsoever. The concern of the leaders was relevant since terrorism has an impact on economy and trade. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was fully supportive of the BRICS objective of open world economy and also assertive in condemning all forms of terrorism.

There are legitimate problems facing the BRICS members. This is evident from the fact that Russia has been facing economic sanctions by the USA and European countries since 2014 for its alleged annexation of Crimea, and this has affected its economy and also foreign trade. From the last year or so there are ongoing conflicts between the USA and China on bilateral trade. China has been facing sanctions by the USA and the American President, Donald Trump, has accused China of being vicious and for adopting unfair trading practices. Conflicts seem to have increased since Trump has imposed tariffs on $ 34 billion of Chinese imports a few months back and threatened to increase the amount to $ 500 billion. In response China has retaliated with tariffs on US products, including soyabeans and pork.

For promoting his own national economic interest, during the last one year Trump has put restrictions for importing steel and metal products from India, China and Russia. Hence, as speculated by some commentators, a trade war was looming even as the BRICS meeting was to be held. Thus there is genuine concern that the USA has been pursuing economic policies contrary to the objectives of promoting economic globalisation. Therefore it is important to note that as per press reports China, India and Russia have applied to the WTO to challenge the duties imposed by the United States on their countries products.



In the backdrop of these developments as reported by the media, Chinese President Xi Jinping was candid in his concluding statements urging for united efforts by global institutions such as the United Nations, G-7, and WTO to fight unilateralism and protectionism. Hence he urged all BRICS members: We must work together...to safeguard the rule-based multilateral trading regime; promote trade and investment, globalisation and facilitation; and reject protectionism outright.

As the summit concluded, the China factor has assumed importance not only among BRICS but also in global trade. This is mainly because with consistent high economic growth during the last over two decades, China has emerged not only as a major global trading country but also one that enjoys trade surplus with a majority of trading partners including members of BRICS. China has huge trade surplus with Russia and India. This is partly because China has not been fair in promoting bilateral trade, contrary to what it is sermonising to the rest of the world. This is evident from the fact that as it has been reported by the Indian media, many small and medium enterprises (MSEs) in India are losing their market and suffering due to the dumping of imported goods from China.

It seems China has its own national interest in maintaining its status in world trade which is also evident from the assertive statements of Xi at the Summit. He is highly critical of the USA and hence expressed his opposition to protectionism and unilateralism in the wake of threats by US President Donald Trump to impose global trade tariffs. In a highly diplomatic tone Xi asserted on July 25 that the world must decide between cooperation and confrontation as there will be no winner should a global trade war erupt.

China is a communist country retaining state control and economic benefits of that system. At the same time China has also adopted major elements of the market economy. Thus China has had the best of both the systems for promoting its own benefits. High economic growth has been achieved by partially opening up its economy for attracting foreign capital and technology. There are even allegations by some critics in the USA that China has not legally acquired some of the latest technological patents and processes. But at the same time China has not been fully opening up its own economy and restricting imports due to selective state policies and controls as has been practised under the communist system. This could be one of the reasons and apprehensions for Americas differences with China. But at the same time, as reported by media channels including AP and Reuters, China has warned against unilateralism that is gaining some acceptability in the West as it affects its economy the most.

Russia being a key figure in BRICS, Russian President Vladimir Putin has been pragmatic and optimistic at the Summit and has welcomed closer cooperation between businesses in the BRICS nations while calling for more trade within the bloc. Putin has justification that he is implementing this concept. So far as Russia-India trade is concerned, Putin has mentioned that bilateral trade between Russia and India increased by 24 per cent in 2017 and 26 per cent in five months in 2018.

The 2019 BRICS Summit is scheduled for Brazil, and the 12th gathering is tentatively scheduled for Chelyabinsk in Russia in 2020. There are legitimate expectations that leaders of BRICS will succeed in achieving the objectives of the Open World Economy.

Dr R.G. Gidadhubli is a Professor and former Director, Centre for Central Eurasian Studies, University of Mumbai.
Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2018 > First Bharat Bandh by Dalits on August 9

by Arun Srivastava

Bandhs are the regular social features with political nuance in India. Bandh is a form of mechanism to send across some message. The proposed August 9 bandh is different from all the previous bandhs. For the first time this bandh has been called by the Dalit organisations. Bandhs are usually called by the political parties. But the Dalit-sponsored bandh aims at asserting their identity and rights.

The immediate provocation for giving the call for Bharat Bandh is the reluctance of the government to listen to the Dalit protest against dilution of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act 1989. On March 20, the Supreme Court observed that the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act of 1989 was being used to blackmail innocent citizens and handed down guidelines to protect both public servants and private employees. However, the facts on record unravel the truth that no one, not even the government official, underwent legal prosecution for committing atrocities on Dalits. In contrast the Dalits on flimsy charges were languishing in jails. The Court expressed concern about the innocent citizen, but was not bothered of the Dalits.

This Dalit affirmation on August 9 will be different from the previous Dalit protests. Significantly, realising the nature and dynamics of August 9, established leaders like Ramvilas Paswan, Udit Raj and Mayawati have also become vocal against the Modi Government. Their primary strategy has been to snatch the initiative from the hands of the new Dalit youth leadership emerging fast on the national horizon. These leaders are aware of the fact that keeping away from the August 9 protest would prove to be disastrous. These Dalit leaders could have long back taken up the issues staring at the faces of the Dalit community. But they ignored them.

The Dalit leadership in fact is planning for a bandh on a much wider scale. This would herald the emergence of the Dalit youth leadership at the national level. The new leadership, which took birth in Gujarat, has acquired a national dynamics. The Dalit upsurge is being given a political shape post-Una atrocities and flogging of the Dalits. After Una, the Dalits have realised that the problem is widespread and that has brought in a new sense of unity. After the incident, Jignesh Mewani began the Asmita Yatra from Ahmedabad to Una. More than 20,000 Dalits joined him for the yatra.

After the April 2 showdown the Dalit community is gearing up for a major face-off with the Narendra Modi Government on August 9. The intensity and character of the Dalit assertion on that day could be gauged from the simple fact that even the Dalit faces of the NDA and Modi Government have started cautioning the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi.

In April at least nine people were killed in Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan as Dalit outfits allegedly turned violent in several parts of the country due to their outrage over a Supreme Court ruling on atrocities against Dalits, according to the government officials. Nevertheless senior Dalit activists like S.R. Darapuri, former IPS, vehemently denied that the activists took to violence. Recently several Dalit organisations and political leaders held a session which witnessed the birth of the Dalit Swabhiman Sangharsh Manch with the grandson of B.R. Ambedkar, Prakash Ambedkar, taking the lead.

Theres a need to politicise the 167 million Dalits in India. They must identify their needs and raise their voice about such necessities like sanitation, quality education, occupational health hazards, spearheading sustained protests against atrocities against Dalits and shaming archaic mindsets through the media. They must fight for their basic rights, not for freebies.

Now the time has come for the poor Dalit masses and Dalit youth to come up with fresh ideas and a different language and get out of the typical rhetoric of bramanvaad-murdaabad, and focus on real, material issues. This will be able to successfully generate a movement. All poor forces should stand united. The Dalits have become victims of the material contradictions of the globalisation resulting in clashes with the neo-liberals. Mewani has rightly been empha-sising: Fascism is fascism. It will ruin our country if we stay silent any longer.

This is a Manch for everyone opposed to the ideology of the RSS and committed to rights and justice. The Manch is planning to launch a nationwide movement on social issues. One of these is to demand opening of temples in the States. The Manchs mission is to consolidate and unify the movement which is why the Manch had been formed with political support. Who have joined the new platform? They include the Dalit Shoshan Mukti Manch, Akhil Bharatiya Khet Mazdoor Union, National Campaign Council for Protection of Dalit Rights, and the Bharatiya Khet Mazdoor Union. The focus, however, remains on highlighting the atrocities against the Dalits.

The Bharat Bandh is a strategic action-plan at reaching out to people and exploring possible electoral alliances, evolved during a series of discussions between senior leaders of various Opposition parties in New Delhi over the past many days. Interestingly Dalit MPs have also expressed concern over the wrong message sent by the appointment of Justice (retd) A.K. Goel as the National Green Tribunal (NGT) Chairman since he is the judge who ruled against the SC/ST Act. Significantly the leaders of the Manch have strong reasons to believe that the RSS is behind all this and the organised crime against the Dalits is a part of their cultural nationalism. The Indian fascist forces are aware of the fact that it is the Dalit or Scheduled Caste people who have the guts to take head-on the fascist forces and fascism. Being militant they are not scared of the striking power of these forces.

The RSS and BJP forces, which in fact have been striving to transform India into a Hindu Rashtra riding on the back of fascism and the fascist forces, are aware of the militancy of the Dalits which is why to terrorise them and make them toe their political line the former have been perpetrating tortures, like lynching and murders. Unfortunately the traditional Dalit leadership never tried to develop and strengthen this skill of the Dalit. In places where they confronted the private armies of the landlords and state repression, they were instantly identified as hard-core Naxalites or terrorists. Lynching and mob violence have escalated dramatically. A new narrative of nationalism and rejection of dissent have created a dangerous public emotion. Organised mob violence is not new to India. But at the heart of the current wave of lynching is a new political emotion which does not allow dissent. The perpetrators of the crime are the self-styled conscience-keepers of society. The mood of the nation, at present, is to explain its dealings with one another in the religious language of virtue and sin.

In social media platforms, mob lynching over dissent or expressions of free speech has been going on for a long time and is still continuing. But now the goal-post has been shifted to the streets. There is no denying the fact that oppression of the Dalits has the tacit blessings of the Sangh.

Some intellectuals and leaders may not subscribe to the view that India and its people are facing fascistic threat under the BJP-NDA rule, with remote control in the hands of the RSS which admires fascism. Fascism is the cruelest ideology in the world. They chant nationalist slogans but seek to impose the hegemonistic rule of finance capital. Fascism clamours for a strong man to control anarchy and chaos which in fact is targeted against the agitations of unemployed youth, working class battles for their rights, besides for the right to dissent. With capitalist crisis deepening throughout the world these forces have become quite aggressive.

Fascism has started taking different forms in different countries but its basic nature has not changed. The present-day world is facing the critical threat of fascism or fascistic tendencies. It is a matter of serious concern, in the recent election of Germany, the pro-fascist Right-wing party could get more than 13 per cent votes and a number of seats in Parliament. In several West European countries, reactionary governments are capturing power. In such a scenario the surge of fascist forces is not at all surprising.

Only a fortnight back Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan held a meeting with the Dalit rights coalition, All India Ambedkar Mahasabha, at his residence. He also wrote a letter to the Prime Minister supporting the demand raised by the Dalit rights groups of increasing their represen-tation in the higher judiciary and also in the Supreme Court which does not have a single Dalit judge. Following the political line of the BJP and Modi Government he also held the Supreme Court Collegium system of appoint-ment of judges responsible for this omission. The letter urged that Parliament should bring in a law that ensures reservation for SCs, STs, OBCs and women in the High Courts and the Supreme Court.

Strange enough, it took six months for Paswan to come out of the slumber to realise that the damage had been done and write to the Home Minister to release Bhim Army chief Chandra-shekhar and others booked under the National Security Act. Paswans gesture is purely a move to win over the trust of the Dalits and keep them in good humour. Paswan did not show his concern for the Dalits and poor who became victims of the lynching. The primary reason for this was he did not want to be seen on the opposite side of Modi.

Lynching aims at enforcing a majoritarian ethnic/racial/religious political order. By maintaining silence he simply endorsed the hegemony of the BJP and Sangh. The datasets on lynching show a qualitative increase in the incidence of lynching after the BJPs rise to power in 2014. The BJP has itself to blame for antagonising the Dalits. From the time of the lynching of four Dalits in Una by gau rakshaks to the hounding to death of the bright Dalit student, Rohith Vemula, in Hyderabad to the prolonged incarceration of the Dalit firebrand, Chandrashekhar Azad Ravan, in the wake of the clashes between the Rajputs and Dalits in Saharanpur, UP, the Dalits have been at the receiving end of the saffron ire. There has been systematic disparaging of the Dalits, as the Rohith Vemula episode showed when a Union Minister called the Hyderabad Central University a den of anti-nationals simply because the ABVP was opposed to the Ambedkar Students Association.

During the four years of BJP rule, Dalits have lost the gains they had made earlier. The most glaring was the constitutional security provided to them. The Supreme Court decision that diluted the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act has made them vulnerable to the upper-caste oppression and reprisal. In another decision against the Dalits, the Allahabad High Court has overruled reservations for the SC faculty at the university level. The Centre, instead of appealing to the Supreme Court, lent support to the HCs decision. The UGC has issued an order to give effect to the HCs verdict, without any consideration of the likely reduction in the reserved faculty posts in the universities.

It is an open secret that the BJP has not been concerned of the miseries and plights of the Dalits. Through its manifesto for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections the party had pledged its commitment to social justice and harmony. It also promised economic empowerment of the Dalits through education, entrepreneurship and skill development. The manifesto further stressed on preventing atrocities against the Scheduled Castes (SCs). But after four years of Modi rule, they lost everything of whatever little they had.

The economic empowerment of the Dalits depends on the allocation to the Special Component Plan (SCP) for SCs. The Modi Government did not maintain a proper allocation. The average allocation in the period between 2014 and 2018 is 7.59 per cent, almost nine per cent short of the 16.6 per cent target set by the government. The move meant a downgrading of the significance of allocations for the SCs. As a result of this, education and entrepreneurship development have been the worst affected. The Dalit students are facing difficulties in getting the Post-Matric Scholarship and also the delay in release of funds to the UGC for National Ph.D Fellowships for SC/ST scholars (earlier called the Rajiv Gandhi Fellowship) has caused hardship to many researchers.

The BJPs attempt to Hinduise Ambedkar has simply backfired and turned the Dalits more cautious. An insight into the victory of the BJP would make it explicit that the established Dalit leaders did not take the fight against the BJP head-on. Their approach and attitude to the 2014 elections made it abundantly clear that they lost the battle even before the war formally began. They would have adopted the same approach for the 2019 elections had the new emerging Dalit leadership not thrown an open challenge to the RSS and BJP. It is the fear of losing the space to the new leaders that leaders like Mayawati and others have become pro-active.

For BSP supremo Mayawati the 2019 Lok Sabha elections have come as an opportunity to consolidate her grip on the Dalits and untouchables of Uttar Pradesh and resuscitate her own image as a champion of the Dalit cause. Unfortunately her impulsive political actions of the past have given her a negative image. Even her own partymen do not take her seriously. Nevertheless, wisdom has prevailed on her and she has come to realise that to regain her primacy in Indian politics and reclaim her position as the Dalit leader, she has to reach out to the other Opposition leaders and adopt a flexible approach.

The recent emergence of new young Dalit faces in Gujarat and their taking to the war path against the feudal and upper-caste elements has unnerved Mayawati. She is yet not clear about what should be the stance of the party towards the present political and economic developments taking place in the country. The main problem with Mayawati, however, is that she does not comprehend the new idiom of Dalit assertion. It is an open secret that during the rule of Narendra Modi, the nature of Dalit assertion has undergone a change. The new Dalit leadership has been trying to place the Dalit question in relation to and contradiction between the capitalist economy and market forces that have been defining the Indian economy.

This move of the RSS and BJP has been the part of their strategy to Hinduise everything from the freedom fighters to the national heroes to the important historical events. It is not that the Sangh is experimenting this with Babasaheb only. A look at the developments would reveal that right from Bir Kunwar Singh to Tantya Tope everyone is being identified as Hindu aspiration. This is a cultural attack. The Sangh has been attacking the liberal, Left and secular forces and scholars with the allegation that Mewanis movement is pitching for an alternative model of development, based on land reforms, where productivity and wealth gains will be made by redistributing land to those who will work on it themselves, land to the tiller. The State administrations move to start mapping land around Saroda village was a huge victory for the movement, he claimed. Hitherto, Gujarat had a unique model of carrying land reforms only on paper, Mewani said.

There is a new swing in Dalit politics today. Its signs are obvious in the way Dalits have reacted to denial of their rights, to atrocities on them, the modes of struggles, rejection of their economic status. New young Dalit leaders have been asserting their individuality. It is being added to the new form of politics. No doubt Dalits are increasingly striving to take charge of affairs in their own hands. Though caste continues to be the basic index of their assertion, the fact is that they are disillusioned of caste politics. They nurse a strong feeling that their caste leaders have simply exploited them and used them for their personal gains.

Naxalites are the only political force which attract them. Incidentally in the 2015 Bihar Assembly elections while the Grand Alliance of RJD-JD(U) bulldozed even the BJP, the CPI(ML) managed to win three seats having the Mahadalit population. It is also significant that a paradigm shift is being witnessed in the attitude of the Dalits and agricultural labourers towards the movements relating to their own problems. The new Dalit politics feels that it holds the key to some of these concerns and strivings.

In fact Dalit unity is a big challenge in modern-day Dalit politics. A new class of Manuwadi Dalit is fast growing within the Dalit community itself. A recent study by an NGO found wide prevalence of untouchability practised by Dalit castes against other Dalit castes. This is a major impediment in the path of Dalit unity. It is a sad commentary that the Indian Left is yet to look at the Dalit community in a proper modern perspective. The Left must become an ally of the Dalits. We must listen to what Mewani says: I definitely see the Left as an ally. Its not about the Left joining the Dalits or Dalits joining the Left, its about a Dalit becoming Leftby which I simply mean a cogent understanding of class struggle.

The author is a senior journalist and can be contacted at sriv52[at]gmail.com
Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2018 > Aping the Adversary

From N.C.s Writings

It is surprising how intelligent people in politics sometimes take up positions which should logically belong to their adversaries.

The Muslim League in 1940 picked up the so-called two-nation theory which a bunch of extremist intellectuals had first coined to back up their demand for Pakistan. Other parties in India rejected it. The Congress made it clear that it did not accept the theory itself though it agreed to the partitioning of the country on the basis of the very same two-nation theory. By implication, Pakistan is supposed to belong to the Muslim nation, and therefore there could possibly be no equality between the master community, the Mussalman, and the subject community, the Hindu, in Pakistan. Hence, the rulers of Pakistan were party to the forcible exit of millions of Hindus from Pakistan, the larger number from the west than in the eastdespite Jinnahs inaugural address to the Pakistan Parliament on the very morrow of the partition in which he had said that in the new state of Pakistan, all citizens would be equal irrespective of community, race or creeda speech which was quietly given a rather indecent burial by those who ruled Pakistan.

This idea of dividing the people according to their community identity, is now taken up, of all the people, by the BJP, which claims to be an implacable adversary of Pakistan. In its stand on the large body of people crossing into India from Bangladesh in recent months, the BJP has no objection whatsoever to the Hindu migrants, but wants the Muslim migrants to be thrown back into Bangladesh. The leaders of the BJP are intelligent people, at least most of them. They know perfectly well that this continuous exodus of Bangladeshis into India is due to the fact that their country is one of the worst poverty-stricken countries in the world. In fact, Bangladesh is included in the UN categorisation, in the LDCsthe Least Developed Countries which are entitled to special care. The BJP leaders know all this. They could have raised the question of Bangladeshi exodus as a regional and international phenomenonan excellent issue for the SAARC to take up. Instead, they have made it an exclusively communal issue, to damn the Muslim community.

And justifying this clamour to force the Muslim migrants back into Bangladesh, they have raised a hair-raising theory, namely, that these Muslim migrants from Bangladesh settling down in the border districts contiguous to Bangladesh, are changing the demographic pattern of these districts, and in another ten years, these would thus be Muslim-majority districts of India, which the Bangladeshis would demand as part of their country on the strength of the two-nation theory and so we would be forced into another partition of this country. The plain and simple fact is that a Muslim must not be treated with trust under the BJP lexicon, and so has to be thrown out of the country.

Incidentally, the Akhand Hindustan slogan, which the BJPs political ancestor, the Jana Sangh, had raised, is now quietly given up. It may be due to a realistic understanding that an entire state can hardly be expected to be liquidated at the call of the BJP; but this abandoning of the slogan to undo the partition of 1947 might be due to the realisation that in an Akhand Hindustan, there would be many more Muslims to be tackled than in the partitioned India. For, Akhand Hindustan would mean not only the liquidation of Pakistan but Bangladesh as wellwhich, if realised, would mean an enormous increase in the number of Muslims to live with. Obviously, the party, which is getting het up at the exodus of several lakh Muslims from Bangladesh, would be aghast at the arrival of several crores, posing a threat to the ideal of Hindutva.

If we look carefully, the swift demolition of the Babri Masjid on December 6which the BJP has, for all practical purposes, welcomed, as nobody among its leaders, barring Atal Behari Vajpayee, has expressed even a word of regret at this violation of the pledged word by the partys Ministry in UPis in keeping with the style of violent bigotry which they ascribe to Emperor Baburs lieutenant, Mir Baqi. By the official BJP stand, Mir Baqi had committed a sacrilege by destroying a place of worship of the Hindus and built another structure at that very spot, meant for the worship of Muslims, namely, the Babri Masjid. This was supposed to have taken place five hundred years ago. Now in the year 1992, the kar sevaks, at the call of the BJP, arrived at Ayodhya and swiftly followed the very same procedure of Mir Baqi which the BJP leaders have always condemned, namely, replacing by violence the place of worship of one community by another place of worship of another community. What Mir Baqi did five hundred years ago has been faithfully followed now by the kar sevaks following the BJP callthis, like Mir Baqi, destroyed a place of worship to build another belonging to a different community. Mir Baqi would have understood the glory of Sadhvi Rithambharas ecstasy in the afternoon of December 6, 1992.

Another anomaly in the BJP propagandawhich must be awkward for the leaders of the party with a modern outlookis the campaign that the Muslim community is furiously increasing its number because it permits a man to marry and keep as many as four wives at a time. By this device, the BJP leaders in their propaganda say, the Muslim communitys demographic position will soon change and thereby presumably India, or a good part of it, will form into a Muslim-majority regionthat is, ripe for another Pakistan. I can understand a Christian leader working up such a spectre, but coming from devout Hindu leaders for whom every word in the scriptures and epics is sacred, it is odd to hear about the danger of polygamy. Because, most of the Hindu gods and kings had more than one wife. In fact, they had many more than fourquite often scores. Lord Rams revered father, King Dasarath, had as many as four wives, and it was because of his promise to one of the four, that he had to banish Ram, and died heart-broken. It is worth noting that the ancestors of the BJP leaders in Parlia-ment, those who were like-minded, opposed the Hindu marriage legislation in the fifties. For the BJP leaders, polygamy should not be a taboo to be run down. So, why pick on the Muslims for their religion permitting four wives at a time?

The BJP leaders strive to assure the Muslim community that under their dispensation, the minorty community would be looked after and not persecuted. They even claim that the Muslim community on its own would respond to such assurances from the BJP, but it is the Congress and the so-called pseudo-secularists who have been spreading poison to vitiate and mislead the Muslims to look upon the BJP as their enemy. In proof of their claim, the BJP leaders often publicise the point that wherever a State has come under BJP rule, the incidence of communal rioting has spectacularly gone down. At the same time, not a single BJP leader has even mildly criticised the Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackerays vitriolic call for pogrom against the Muslim community. Rather, when asked, the BJP leaders claim that the alliance of the BJP with the Shiv Sena persists and would remain. BJP leader Advani visited Bombay after the Shiv Senas pogrom campaign in January which ended up in a horrendous outburst of mob violence along communal lines.

Lal Krishna Advani, Atal Behari Vajpayee, Murli Manohar Joshi, Govindacharya and many others in the BJP leadership are mature politicians. Do they seriously believe that the Muslims would feel safe under their dispen-sation after having seen the BJP sticking on to its alliance with the Shiv Sena, the designer and executor of the first genuine pogrom of an entire community in this country?

Grant for a change, Joshiji, that the Muslim has at least a morsel of common sense. After finding you in the Shiv Senas company, would any Muslim in his senses feel comfortable under your care?

(Mainstream, April 24, 1993)
Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2018 > Mandela on Gandhi and Nehru

The following are excerpts from the letter from prison sent by Nelson Mandela to the Indian Council for Cultural Relations expressing sincere gratitude for the presentation of the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding for 1979 to him. We are reproducing the excerpts from the letter as a token of our tribute to him on the occasion of his birth centenary on July 18, 2018.

Our people cannot but feel humble, at the same time proud, that one of their number has been selected to join the distinguished men and women who have been similarly honoured in the past....

In the upsurge of anti-colonial and freedom struggles that swept through Asia and Africa in the post-war period there would hardly be a liberation movement or a national leader who was not influenced, in one way or another, by the thoughts, activities and examples of Pandit Nehru and the All-India Congress. If I may presume to look back on my own political education and upbringing I find that my own ideas were influenced by his experiences...

Like the All-India Congress, one of the premier national liberation movmements of the colonial world, we too began to assess our situation in a global context. We quickly learned the admonition of a great political thinker and teacher that no people in one part of the world could really be free while their brothers in other parts were still under foreign rule....

Our people admired the solidarity the All-India Congress displayed with the people of Ethiopia whose country was being ravaged by Fascist Italy. We observed that undeterred by labels, the All-India Congress courageously expressed its sympathy with Republican Spain. We were inspired when we learnt of the Congress Medical Mission to China in 1938.

We noted that while the imperialist powers were hoping and even actively conniving to thrust the barbaric forces of Nazism against the Soviet Union, Panditji publicly spurned a pressing invitation to visit Mussolini, and two years later he again refused an invitation to Nazi Germany. Instead he chose to go to Czechoslovakia, a country betrayed and dismembered at the infamous Munich deal...

The oldest existing political organisation in South Africa, the Natal Indian Congress, was founded by Mahatma Gandhi in 1904. He became its first Secretary and in 21 years of his stay in South Africa we were to witness the birth of ideas and methods of struggle that have exerted an incalculable influence on the history of the peoples of India and South Africa. Indeed it was on South African soil that Mahatmaji founded and embraced the philosophy of Satyagraha....

After his return to India Mahatmajis South African endeavours were to become the cause of the All-India Congress and the people of India as a whole... At the Asian Peoples Conference in 1947, at Bandung in 1955, at the Commonwealth deliberations, in the Non-Aligned Movement everywhere and at all timesPanditji and Free India espoused our cause consistently.
Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2018 > NRC and Beyond

POLITICAL NOTEBOOK

The publication of the draft National Register of Citizens of Assam has thrown the State into turmoil. Naturally, because over four million Indian citizens names are just not there in the draft Register. They include Bengali Hindus, Bengali Muslims, Nepalis and Indian citizens from other States like UP, Bihar etc., who have been living in Assam for generations. By no stretch of imagination can they be called foreigners or Bangladeshis. Though Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has assured that this is only a draft and those whose names have been excluded will have time till September 28 to apply for inclusion with necessary documents, the objective behind the preparation of the NRC raises doubts as to how many would still be left out of the final document after September.

To make matters far worse, the BJP Government of Assam has chosen to deal in a most cavalier fashion with a parliamentary delegation of the Trinamul Congress which had gone to Silchar to have a first-hand knowledge of the situation by meeting the affected people.. They were not allowed by the police to come out of the airport lounge but detained there. At the time of writing they are supposed to be taken to some place some forty miles away, detained there overnight and possibly herded into a plane leaving for either Kolkata or Delhi the next morning. The members of the delegation, which included a West Bengal Minister and several MPs, were reportedly manhandled by the police.

Then three FIRs have been lodged against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in three different police stations in Assam under different sections of the Indian Penal Code. Most likely, an arrest warrant will be issued against her and a police team sent to Kolkata to arrest her and bring her to Assam. It will be a deliberate act of provocation and it seems the sole purpose of what happened at the Silchar airport and the lodging of FIRs against Mamata is to provoke the TMC into some public protest against the BJP in West Bengal. That will give the Modi Government the much needed excuse to dismiss the Mamata Government on the pretext that law and order had broken down in West Bengal.

Then, after a few months, a midterm election to the State Assembly may be held under Central rule with the Central forces creating a situation in which voters will be too terrorised to come out and vote freely. During the last few months, Mamata has emerged as the rallying point of all anti-BJP forces at the national levela fact that the Modi-Amit Shah duo cannot ignore and countenance. For them it is absolutely necessary to size her down before the 2019 general elections.

As far as the latest phase of the Assam problem is concerned, the second National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the State was published on July 30.

The Assamese frankly admit that they know it is physically impossible to deport the so-called Bangladeshis. What they want is that these people should be prevented from taking part in and influencing the outcome of election results.

This will be possible only by disenfranchising the (unidentified or arbitrarily identified) Bangladeshis. The whole exercise of preparing the second NRC was aimed at depriving them of their voting rights and making them stateless. It remains to be seen how the ground situation develops after September 28, and how those who eventually fail to get their names enlisted in the final NRC react.

August 2 B.D.G.
Alex Jones Banned! Will Unapproved Opinions Be Censored Off the Internet?

"False opinions are like false money, struck first of all by guilty men and thereafter circulated by honest people who perpetuate the crime without knowing what they are doing." - Joseph de Maistre

You wouldnt be reading this if you didnt value alternative points of view. After all, you could easily click your mouse right now to CNBC, CNN, or the New York Times for conventional news and opinion.

The fact that you have the slightest ability to bypass big medias biased filters makes them and their ideological allies furious.

Some members of Congress who clearly dont like the spirit of the First Amendment are working with internet gatekeepers at Google, Facebook, Twitter, and Apple (now a trillion-dollar corporation) to try to prevent you from accessing information they havent approved.

Silicon Valley executives recently appeared before Congress, where several representatives called for big tech to implement more aggressive restrictions on hate speech and conspiracy theories.

Shortly thereafter one of their main targets, alternative media personality Alex Jones, had his Facebook account suspended, multiple videos removed from YouTube, and podcasts deleted from streaming services.

Has Jones made some controversial claims over the years? Sure.

But he has also hosted top-notch experts on his program who are willing to speak inconvenient truths about our monetary system, about market manipulation, about the globalist agenda.

Among his guests have been Gerald Celente and Jim Rickards (both of whom have appeared multiple times on the Money Metals podcast), former Congressman Ron Paul, and even Donald Trump (early in his presidential run).

Its pretty safe to say that Donald Trump would never have become GOP Nominee Trump  let alone President Trump  without the sizeable backing he got on alternative media and social media platforms.

Now many of his supporters are being de-platformed and shadow banned by social media CEOs who were in the bag for Hillary Clinton.

This is only a preview of whats to come in the event that big tech and big media titans help install a new Congressional majority this fall and perhaps a new President in 2020. Our once free and open internet could become as centrally controlled and censored as it is in Communist China.

Yes, we still have the First Amendment. But members of Congress have discovered a convenient end run around it. They can just outsource whatever they want censored to the tiny handful of corporations that control 98% of the internet.

Its already happening. Radical Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) last month fired off a letter to Amazon. He demanded the giant online retailer remove items from independent sellers that are perfectly legal to sell but that he personally finds offensive. Among the offending items was a historically accurate Georgia state flag, flown from 1956-2001.

History is now hate speech. It wont be long before the perpetually offended demand that Google searches for Krugerrands  first minted during South African apartheid  return links to the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Any analysis that questions the official version of a politically sensitive issue is a conspiracy theory  no sharing on Facebook without a trigger warning placed by Team Zuckerberg.

Any suggestion that precious metals markets are manipulated by central banks and governments could be deemed too edgy for social media (the whistleblowers at the Gold Anti-Trust Action Committee have been deemed too edgy for CNBC).

The so-called mainstream media has been relentlessly pushing its own conspiracy theories about unproven Russia-Putin-Trump connections. Relentlessly pushing fake news stories about Trump-inspired hate crimes against minority groups that later turn out to be crude hoaxes.

Big media relentlessly spews its own hate speech, as exemplified by recent New York Times editorial board hire Sarah Jeong. She has a long Twitter history of vile anti-cop, anti-male, and anti-white rants, including this gem from 2014: Dumbass f**king white people marking up the internet with their opinions like dogs pissing on fire hydrants.

Imagine what the internet would be like if only New York Times-approved opinions were allowed to be posted. If you prefer a free and open internet, then be sure to support independent content creators and platforms.

Stefan Gleason is President of Money Metals Exchange, the national precious metals company named 2015 "Dealer of the Year" in the United States by an independent global ratings group. A graduate of the University of Florida, Gleason is a seasoned business leader, investor, political strategist, and grassroots activist. Gleason has frequently appeared on national television networks such as CNN, FoxNews, and CNBC, and his writings have appeared in hundreds of publications such as the Wall Street Journal, Detroit News, Washington Times, and National Review.

 2018 Stefan Gleason - All Rights Reserved

Disclaimer: The above is a matter of opinion provided for general information purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Information and analysis above are derived from sources and utilising methods believed to be reliable, but we cannot accept responsibility for any losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors.

 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication.




Trade War! Win the Economic Hostilities Against the Chinese

The establishment culture indoctrinates the public with the mythical virtues of 'Free Trade', while omitting the destructive record of the globalist economy that has ruined American prosperity. Prosperity is not defined as cheap consumer items. Economic success that creates wealth and achieves affluence requires that a society can reach a lasting production capacity to fill ongoing demands, primarily from domestic output. Trade as long as it attains a positive balance of payment result is fine. However, when a country continues to bleed money to purchase goods that were previously produced domestically, the economic treasure of the importing country sinks into the quicksand of a quagmire.

China has been winning the trade tug of war for a very long time. The United States Census Bureau publishes the Trade in Goods with China statistics that traces the balance in trade deficit which has drained capital from our nation. This shortfall has expanded greatly since China joined the WTO on December 11, 2001. The fact that is deflected in all the corporatist business reporting is that China started this trade warfare well before becoming a WTO member. America has not initiated a new trade war, but has finally decided to defend its own domestic business capacity.

President Trump is not inflicting a campaign of aggression, but is mobilizing a self-protective restoration of American commercial independence. The globalists that control much of corporate enterprises are some of the most eager betrayers of our autonomous viability. These internationalists trade loyalty towards our country to gain favor with the Maoist Politburo Standing Committee.

The Chinese have been running rogue for decades. The usual suspects from the establishment 'Free Trade' lobby are hell bent on stopping the America First reciprocal trade reset because they have no problem getting into bed with Totalitarian Collectivists. Many of these oligopolists are Wall Street titans who are the most vocal supporters of the Chinese State/Mercantilism model. Rejecting President Trump's courageous leadership in facing down the Chi-coms offends the mega conglomerates because they hate competition and would prefer an authoritarian regime as a partner.

A couple of examples that should disturb anyone who values the security of data and despises any form of censorship come out of the diabolical collaboration among tech giants and the Xi Jinping ruling cabal. Apple hands control of Chinese subscriber iCloudanyone who values data to China Telecom is the prototype for even more advanced systems of surveillance.

"China, already the country whose citizens endure the most all-encompassing and inescapable surveillance in the world, has just been gifted yet another way to keep its beady eyes on all and sundry. The iCloud data belonging to Apple's China-based users has effectively been handed over to the Chinese government because all the texts, emails, pictures and videos of Chinese users of iCloud will henceforth be "managed" by the state-owned telco, China Telecom."

How long will it take to implement in the U.S. a similar version? Google Is Planning a Censored Search Engine for China "Google is planning to relaunch its search engine in China, in the form of a censored version designed to comply with Chinese government ideology, according to a whistleblower from within the company. According to leaked documents given to The Intercept, Google is returning to China with a bespoke search engine for Chinese citizens."

Beware of Project Dragonfly is Googles censored search engine for China.

"According to a Google employee who worked on Dragonfly and talked to the Intercept, information about the project was restricted to a few hundred employees.

Im against large companies and governments collaborating in the oppression of their people, and feel like transparency around whats being done is in the public interest, the source told the Intercept. What is done in China will become a template for many other nations.

This Google's project illustrates the direction that American high tech companies are going to implement top down centralization conformity systems and test their operations before imposition on our own society.

Now that the American economy is once again healthy and in a position to regenerate domestic production, it is the perfect time to bring the Chinese economy to its knees. China is the real enemy. It is the prototype dictatorship for the New World Order. For decades China has been conducting silent trade bellicosity against the United States and much of the rest of the productive industrialized countries.

The Chinese economy is far more dependent upon nationwide consumer purchases than any loss in sales that our exporters would suffer. The American public must avoid any Chinese imports and encourage our domestic companies to replace any items that are boycotted from the Beijing regime.

Reject the internationalists and financial banksters who are committed to engineer an economic dependency for America and shackle us with an inordinate debt that could never be retired. Unless the corporate contrived balance of trade debacle is eliminated, the prospects of establishing a credible 'Fair Trade' environment are impossible.

When the Chinese extort equity ownership for the privilege of allowing foreign companies to enter the Chinese market, all nations need to ban together to stop buying their exports. When the foreign thieves who attended our universities steal our innovative technology, they need to be prosecuted and put in jail. And when China manipulates their currency to gain a trade advantage, it is in the interest of all trading nations to reject the Renminbi as a valid currency for settlement.

China needs to be added to the list of violators of the inter-agency Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). Our national security is compromised by letting Chinese purchase of our most sensitive companies. CFIUS regulations need to be more comprehensive and applied much more widely.

America needs to win the battle from Chinese aggression which is the cause of economic hostilities. Allowing the "so called" Free Trade system to operate so that China can continue to rip off of the world economy is insane. President Trump has the guts to confront this gang of the NWO Cultural Revolutionaries.

SARTRE

Source: http://www.batr.org/totalitariancollectivism/080718.html

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Disclaimer: The above is a matter of opinion provided for general information purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Information and analysis above are derived from sources and utilising methods believed to be reliable, but we cannot accept responsibility for any losses you may incur as a result of this analysis. Individuals should consult with their personal financial advisors.

 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication.




Between 24-29 July, 370 Marxists from more than 25 countries gathered in the Italian Alps for the 2018 congress of the International Marxist Tendency (IMT). In years to come we believe this congress will be remembered as a turning point in the effort to build a worldwide organisation capable of leading the working class in the struggle to overthrow capitalism.

This was by far the biggest world event the IMT has ever organised. Despite the enormous difficulties in organising such an event, there can be no doubt that it was a tremendous success. Over the course of six days the congress discussed the turbulent world situation; the Marxist approach in the fight against oppression; as well as special sessions on events in Italy and Pakistan; and a full international organisational report. The political discussions revealed a superb political level existing across the whole IMT and a unity of will.

It is on this solid foundation of Marxist theory  combined with a professional attitude  that the inspiring growth of the IMT in the past few years has been achieved.

Since the last IMT world congress many sections have experienced fast growth. A special mention should be made of the Canadian, Swedish, French and Pakistan sections, which have doubled in size; and the US section, which has grown by 50 percent, with many new branches being established across the country. All sections have strengthened their structures, publications and ability to intervene effectively in the movement. Comrade Marco La Grotta from Fightback, the Canadian section of the IMT, explained that there is no magic formula for this growth. Rather, it is down to the untiring education and training of a layer of professional revolutionaries who in turn become builders of the IMT.

370 Marxists from more than 25 countries attended the 2018 congress of the IMT: our largest ever! The congress collection also raised an incredible sum of over 100,000 / Image: Socialist Appeal

Today the IMT is intervening in 41 countries around the world. In spite of all the growth experienced over the past years however, the organisation is still too small and too lacking in resources to take advantage of all of the incredible opportunities which are opening up.

Rather than simply lament this fact however, the congress showed the determination that exists across the IMT to overcome all obstacles and to be ready for the tasks posed by the deepest crisis capitalism has experienced since the 1930s. This was most eloquently expressed in the congress record collection. At last years world event, 70,000 were raised at an already outstanding collection. But this year the congress collection raised an incredible sum of over 100,000.

World perspectives

The congress began by analysing the world situation. The year 2008 will be seen for years to come as a turning point in world history. Since that crisis nothing has been the same. Each attempt by the capitalists to restore the economic equilibrium of the system through austerity and attacks on the living standards of the working class have undermined the social and political stability of the system. 10 years after the beginning of the crisis the capitalists dont seem to have found any means by which to stabilise the situation. For the working class meanwhile, there has been no recovery of living standards.

Alan Woods introduced world perspectives, explaining the aftermath of the 2008 economic crisis / Image: Socialist Appeal

Whilst the leadership of the trade unions and the threat of unemployment may depress industrial action in much of the world, there is nevertheless a subterranean rage developing everywhere, which is capable of exploding without warning anywhere. The consciousness of hundreds-of-millions of workers has been indelibly changed by the events since 2008.

The explosive, even insurrectionary movement that unfolded in Haiti in the weeks before the congress illustrates this point quite vividly. For years the people of this nation have been pillaged, raped and brutalised in every way by the imperialist powers through the UN, NGOs, charities and the like. The straw that broke the camels back was the attempt by the government to slash fuel subsidies: a measure that would plunge millions into utter desperation.

The United States in crisis

In the United States the crisis has expressed itself in the election of Donald Trump. This has resulted in cracks opening up between the president, and important sections of the ruling class and the state. The Republican Party has been utterly devastated by Trumps victory. In truth the other main pillar of American capitalism  the Democratic Party  is in little better shape.

The crisis of the current period is utterly exposing the limits of US imperialism. Nowhere else is this more clearly visible than in the sharp contradictions in the Middle East, in which the American ruling class has entangled itself. Whilst Trump and one wing of the ruling class are trying to extricate themselves from the mess they have created in Syria with Russias assistance, another wing is determined to prevent any rapprochement.

In the United States the crisis has expressed itself in the election of Donald Trump / Image: Flickr, Gage Skidmore

Furthermore, an extremely deep schism has opened up in the American ruling class between the proponents of free trade and a protectionist wing. Far from being mad or a Russian agent, Donald Trump represents an old trend in American capitalism: he is an isolationist.

Clearly some in the American ruling class would like to see tariffs imposed on Americas competitors: particularly aimed at high-tech goods from China. Others though can see all too clearly that once a tit-for-tat trade war is set in motion, it wont be so easy to stop it. It was just such a trend towards protectionism that heavily contributed to throwing the world economy into a depression in the 1930s. Such a scenario threatens to repeat itself now on an altogether more gigantic scale.

While Trump is not the cause of the growing protectionist tendencies on a world scale, he is certainly accelerating them. However, the underlying cause of this crisis is the suffocation of the productive forces by the two main barriers to progress under capitalism: private property and the narrow boundaries of the nation state.

Europe

In the current period however, it is clear that the centre of the world revolution has shifted to Europe. In Greece, eight years of crisis and austerity have caused the economy to shrink by 25 percent. And yet despite all the cuts, the debt-to-GDP to ratio in Greece has increased from 159 percent to 180 percent. In France we have seen mass strikes against Macrons counter-reforms. In Spain we have seen Rajoy overturned. Even in Germany, the old parties are in crisis.

With the rise of the Five Star Movement-Lega government, a new period of even greater instability has opened in Italy / Image: public domain

But by far the biggest headache for the capitalists of Europe is the situation in Italy, which threatens to explode wide open. With 2.3tn of debt hanging around the neck of the state, Italy represents a crisis that is orders of magnitude greater than that in Greece. With the rise of the Five Star Movement-Lega government, a new period of even greater instability has opened in Italy.

Wherever we look around the world then we see the same pattern. Years of attacks on the working class have not fundamentally solved the underlying economic malaise. However, workers are reaching the end of their tethers. Political polarisation is destroying the so-called centre-ground. Meanwhile, in one country after another splits are emerging in the ruling class. All of these symptoms augur a period of upheaval and revolution.

Our task is to build a Marxist tendency of such strength, both quantitative and qualitative, that can prepare the way for a revolutionary party able to lead the working class to the seizure of power and the socialist transformation of society.

Marxism versus identity politics

On the third day of the congress, Fred Weston introduced a discussion on the Marxist approach to the question of fighting against oppression, and for the the liberation of oppressed groups.

The defeats of the working class from the late 1970s until the 1980s caused a mood of pessimism to penetrate a layer of left intellectuals  particularly from the camp of Stalinism. In order to justify their own demoralisation they capitulated to the ideological counter-offensive that followed those defeats and the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Fred Weston introduced a discussion on the Marxist approach to the question of fighting against oppression, and our opposition to the idealism of identity politics / Image: Socialist Appeal

The post-modernists who led the charge against Marxism rejected any notion of progress and science, and they rejected with scoffing arrogance the possibility of achieving a revolutionary transformation of society. Through the conveyor belt of the university lecture theatre, they have sought, and partially succeeded, in infecting a new generation of left-wing youth with their own pessimism.

These reactionary ideas have had their offshoots in the proliferation of all forms of divisive identity politics: from intersectionality, to queer theory, to various strands of feminism.

At base, all of these forms of identity politics have in common an idealist conception of oppression. Rather than analysing the objective, material basis of oppression, their start and end point is the subjective experience of oppression. Rather than seeking a revolutionary overthrow of the capitalist system, they seek to liberate the oppressed through changes in language or discourse, etc.

In so doing, they provide the highest service to the capitalist class. Instead of trying to unite the oppressed in a class struggle against capitalism, they end up dividing the movement into a privilege hierarchy with an infinite number of categories. Such ideas, however radical the language employed, can only have the most reactionary consequences for the movement, pitting men against women, black people against white people, etc.

The discussion covered a range of experiences from across the world. Of particular interest were contributions from our Spanish comrades, who brought valuable experience from the feminist strike of 8 March this year. First-hand experience of the role played by advocates of identity politics was also given by comrades from Belgium, Canada, Britain and elsewhere.

In the end, the congress was unanimous in the need to defend Marxism against these divisive and pernicious ideas.

The crisis in Italy and the role of the Marxists

Throughout the week, one theme stood out: that the Marxists seem to be the only optimists in the world! The capitalist press, academia, the official labour movement leaders  all seem to be seeped in pessimism; the IMT appears to be alone in having a well-founded optimism.

No session illustrated this point better than the commision on the crisis of Italian capitalism.

Far from emerging from the crisis in 2008, things have gone from bad to worse in Italy. GDP-per-capita today remains below what it was at that time, and unemployment among the youth stands at 30 percent. Life is simply becoming unbearable for the majority of poor and working-class people.

Whilst many on the Italian left have lamented the fall of their traditional parties and the rise of Salvini's racist demagoguery and M5S, we as Marxists can see that these events are storing up a mighty social explosion for the near future / Image: European Parliament

Since 2008, technocratic, right-wing, and supposedly left-wing governments have come and gone. All of them have carried out the same policy, however: one of brutal austerity cuts in the interests of international capitalism. However, this is still not enough for the ruling class. The result has been that all the main parties identified with the capitalist establishment  from Berlusconi's party to the Democratic Party (PD), have all seen a collapse in their support.

The PD, in particular, has seen its authority battered. Despite its left-wing credentials it has represented over the last period the most reliable tool for carrying out the austerity policies demanded by the Italian capitalists and the EU.

When Renzi took office he attempted to carry out huge amounts of cuts and counter-reforms in a very short period of time. The main trade union, the CGIL, for its part did nothing to resist these attacks.

The result was not only a collapse in support for Renzi and his government  smashed in the constitutional reform referendum of 2016 and the general election of 4 March  but the collapse of all the parties standing to the left of the PD, which took part in class-collaborationist policies or else failed to present a credible alternative to austerity. This left the ground open for the rise of the Five Star Movement (M5S). The CGIL too has suffered a crisis, being challenged by smaller left-wing unions like the Unione Sindacale di Base (USB).

The anger in Italian society will inevitably burst onto the scene; and the Italian working class will rediscover its militant, revolutionary traditions. The Marxists in Italy, organised around the paper Rivoluzione, are preparing for this / Image: own work

Italy has now entered a unique situation for all the classes in society. The working class  which once boasted a two-million-strong Communist Party  is now deprived of any political representation. The Italian ruling class is also entering new territory. For the first time it is entering a period in which it has no reliable party to rest upon.

Looking around for an alternative, millions of workers have put their hopes in new formations like the Five Star Movement. Despite loud, anti-establishment rhetoric however, this party too will be unable to make good on any of the promises it made before the elections.

Whilst many on the left have lamented the collapse of the so-called left parties in Italy, and see only a bleak landscape ahead, we as Marxists can see that these events are storing up a mighty social explosion for the near future.

It may take six months, it may take a year or two, but inevitably the M5S will break; the anger in Italian society will burst onto the scene; and the Italian working class will rediscover its militant, revolutionary traditions.

This is the perspective that the Marxists in Italy, organised around the paper Rivoluzione, are preparing for.

Session on Pakistan

An inspiring highlight of the congress was the session on Pakistan. The Pakistani comrades leading the discussion painted a graphic picture of the crisis through which Pakistan is heading.

Since 1947, Pakistan has been a pawn of US imperialism and the centre of reaction throughout the region. However, in recent years ties between US imperialism and Pakistan have reached a low ebb, with China increasingly intervening in the country. China has developed key strategic investments in the country through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project.

All other political trends in Pakistan, from left to right, have lauded these closening ties with China. Only our tendency has seriously analysed these new trends and dared to point out the imperialistic character of the growing interests of China in Pakistan.

The Pakistani comrades leading the discussion painted a graphic picture of the crisis through which Pakistan is heading / Image: Socialist Appeal

The deepening crisis of Pakistani capitalism is now becoming increasingly apparent. In the last seven months, the rupee has lost 20 percent of its value. Furthermore, unemployment is skyrocketing. As the crisis in the Gulf states has deepened, remittances too have dried up and thousands of workers have begun returning from Saudi Arabia.

Under these circumstances the Pakistani ruling class will have to go to the IMF on its knees, begging with bowl in hand, whilst the US is concerned that any bailout will be used to pay back Chinese lenders!

None of the political parties have a programme that can ameliorate the living hell that the ordinary people of Pakistan experience on a daily basis. As such, the masses have turned their backs on all of them. Whilst Imran Khans PTI has come out on top in the recent elections, it too offers nothing for the masses.

However, despite the lack of organised political expression, it is clear that the workers and poor have reached the limit of what they can take. As such, we have seen mass movements of workers and students in recent years. Above all, there was the recent, massive movement of the oppressed Pashtun people, which shook the Pakistani ruling class to its foundations.

Our comrades have come under attack by the Pakistani state on a number of occasions, demonstrating a steel will and a courage that has been an inspiration for all comrades of the international / Image: Socialist Appeal

Our comrades intervened vigorously in this movement against the oppression that the Pashtun people have suffered. They argued in favour of linking up the struggle with that of all oppressed nationalities and groups. Above all, they called for the Pashtun movement to unite with the struggle of the working class to overthrow capitalism in Pakistan and across the subcontinent.

As we have previously reported, our comrades have come under attack by the Pakistani state on a number of occasions. Under these circumstances, the comrades demonstrated a steel will and a courage that has been an inspiration for all comrades of the international, and which electrified the congress.

Retying the knot of history

In the contributions given by comrades from one country after another, a pattern emerged. Throughout the world the leadership of the workers movement, whether of the left or right-wing reformist variety, is being severely put to the test and their policies are being exposed. On the other hand, the attempts by the capitalist class to go on the offensive and carry out their austerity agenda are further destabilising capitalism and giving a greater impulse to the class struggle.

With this congress we retie the knot of history. The real Fourth International is here! / Image: Socialist Appeal

Since the post-war period, the forces of Marxism have been reduced to a small minority on an international scale and have therefore been unable to offer an alternative leadership. Referring to this isolation in the past period, Alan Woods remarked, We have seen a number of occasions where the thread of history has been broken.

In the dark period of fascist and Stalinist reaction in the 1930s, only Trotsky and his followers in the Fourth International kept the untainted banner of Marxism aloft. After the death of Trotsky, the incompetent leadership of the Fourth International shipwrecked that organisation.

Onward to building the international! / Image: Socialist Appeal

Only a tiny handful of individuals in Britain around Ted Grant kept the genuine ideas of Marx, Engels, Lenin and Trotsky alive. Their efforts are today vindicated in the successes of this international. To an electric mood, Alan Woods closed the Congress with the following words:
The Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has awarded the Montana Cooperative Development Center (MCDC) a $16,500 technical assistance grant. This grant enables MCDC to effectively assist young, community-based grocery cooperatives operating across north central and northeast Montana and to create a training support network for their general managers. The start-up and fledgling co-ops that will receive this assistance include:

Neihart Store Cooperative On June 4, 2018, the Neihart Inconvenience Store was purchased by a member-owned cooperative, and it is now operating under new management. The co-op has more than 135 member-owners and is governed by a seven-member board of directors elected by the membership. Thanks to the CCHD grant, MCDC will be able to assist co-op staff and leadership with management decision making and training to enhance their business operations.

Red Paint Creek Trading Post & Pantry in Lodge Pole  Red Paint Creeks board of directors and general manager contacted MCDC for technical assistance in launching their official co-op membership campaign, which will be conducted on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation and guided by Tribal statutes. The grocery store, gas pumps, food pantry and commercial kitchen are housed in one facility, which is now open for business after celebrating its grand opening on June 11th.

St. Marie, Montana  Great Northern Development Corporation (GNDC) and MCDC are supporting community leaders who would like to form a grocery store cooperative in St. Marie. As envisioned, the co-op would serve more than 500 residents of this unincorporated town located on what was once the Glasgow Air Force Base. The CCHD grant will support specialized legal and financial research during the co-op?s deliberation phase that GNDC is guiding from its headquarters in Wolf Point.

Montana Rural Co-op Managers Network  The CCHD grant includes travel funds that will enable rural grocery co-op managers to meet regularly for training and to address shared challenges in operating their stores. In addition to the co-op stores listed above, co-op stores benefiting from this network will be Fresh Start Cooperative in Geraldine and Big Flat Market in Turner.

For more information on the CCHD grant and MCDC?s current co-op development projects, you may contact Guy Gregory at (406) 727-1517 or email him at [email protected].
Interest in forming rural grocery cooperatives is spreading across Montana! Here is an update on the progress of three co-op stores that are making a real difference in their rural communities.

The Neihart Store Cooperative became the official owner of the "Inconvenience Store" on June 4 after more than two years of planning and member recruitment. They just held their grand opening event on August 4th. The co-op now has 135+ members, a seven-member board of directors and a new general manager. Tucked in the Little Belt Mountain community of Neihart, the store converted from private to cooperative ownership thanks to broad support from both year-round and seasonal residents. The store is a convenient place to stop for essential items, a cup of coffee, or a quick snack while traveling along the Kings Hill Scenic Byway (U.S. Highway 89). Neihart Board President Susan Jordan says they plan to continue the long-standing tradition of hosting Neiharts Saturday Community Dinners in the store?s little picnic park.

Red Paint Creek Trading Post & Pantry in Lodge Pole is another new co-op store that has opened to serve residents of the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. The co-op?s new 5,000 square foot building houses a food pantry and commercial kitchen as well as the grocery store and gas station. Leaders of the co-op held the stores grand opening and ribbon cutting on June 11th Festivities included the erecting of tee-pees, playing traditional tribal music, and savoring bison burgers with baked beans.

The Fresh Start cooperative, an active MCOC member in Geraldine, has been gradually building its business since opening last summer. According to Fresh Start Board Member Shaya Clark, the cooperative plans to purchase the Main Street building that the co-op currently rents. Clark says that in addition to offering a wide-range of grocery products, Fresh Start has opened an espresso and ice cream shop to entice shoppers with a local latte or homemade milk shake.

Interest in grocery co-ops continues to spread across the state. Residents of Saint Marie, Montana, located on the former Glasgow Air Force Base, are studying the potential for their own grocery cooperative. They recently held a Summer Fest "block party", at which participants filled out surveys to assess their interest in forming a grocery co-op for this small, but growing community.

In response to this growing interest, the Montana Cooperative Development Center (MCDC) has established a Montana Rural Co-op Managers? Network. This statewide network will enable managers from both new and established rural grocery co-ops to meet regularly for training and to address shared challenges in operating their stores.
A Missoula tech firm joined six other startups from across the state to participate in the inaugural HpyerAccelerator program hosted by Early Stage MT, and came home better prepared.

Superior Traffic Services of Missoula https://superiortrafficservices.com/ , founded by CEO Jeff Hollenback, will advance next month as the seven companies vie for a $50,000 equity investment offered by the Frontier Angels fund.

"We got a lot out of it and it was really insightful," Hollenback said of the accelerator program. "We went in with a business plan that was pretty conservative. It exceeded my expectations, really."

By Martin Kidston
Montana State Universitys Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship is seeking local and regional businesses and non-profit organizations that are willing to offer students practical business experience in return for research, issue analysis or operational advice during the upcoming fall semester, which runs from Aug. 28 through Dec. 8.

Participating students will be enrolled in "BMGT 463Entrepreneurial Experience" or "BMGT 475R  Management Experience." Both are senior-level courses taught by Gary Bishop, associate teaching professor of management. Bishop said the entrepreneurial experience course is primarily focused on new start-up organizations or small, locally owned businesses. The management experience course focuses on more established businesses, as well as civic and non-profit organizations.



Application materials for both programs may be obtained by contacting Linda Ward at 994-1995 or [email protected] or Gary Bishop at 994-7017 or [email protected]. More information also is available online at http://www.montana.edu/business/e-center/for-companies.html.

Full Story: https://www.wired.com/2017/05/curious-plan-save-environment-blockchain/
KABUL  Foreign Minister H.E Salahuddin Rabbani met with the UN Deputy Secretary General Mr. Miroslav Inka.

Mr. Inka called stability and security important for the Afghan people and emphasized holding of elections in a way that is acceptable for all Afghans. H.E Rabbani too stressed transparent elections so that people could have the incentive to participate in future elections.
[August 07, 2018] Brazil's Copel Telecom Scales State-of-the-Art Fiber Optic Internet with Coriant 200G Solution Coriant, a global supplier of open, disruptive, and hyperscale networking solutions for service providers and web-scale internet operators, today announced that Copel Telecom, a leading provider of regional telecommunications services in Brazil, has deployed 200G optical transmission technology from Coriant (News - Alert) to scale its fiber optic backbone network in the State of Parana. Powered by Coriant CloudWave Optics, the ultra-high speed solution enables Copel Telecom to cost-efficiently meet the growing bandwidth demands of its end-user customers while enhancing the high-quality, low latency performance of end-to-end service connectivity. The Copel Telecom fiber optic network provides the resilient foundation for an expanding subscriber base of residential high-speed internet services covering more than 81 cities as well as carrier-class corporate services offered in all 399 municipalities in Parana. Built upon the Coriant hiT 7300 Multi-Haul Transport Platform, the world-class DWDM infrastructure supports superior 100G+ performance even in the most challenging fiber conditions. With the recent introduction of Coriant CloudWave Optics technology, Copel Telecom has increased line-side transmission speeds on its hiT 7300-based long haul backbone network to 200G per wavelength. In addition to increasing reach and spectral efficiency, the programmable interface solution enables Copel Telecom to reduce power, footprint, and cost as the network scales. "We continue to differentiate our services by helping customers take advantage of the digital revolution with fast, stable, and affordable connections," said Adir Hannouche, Chief Executive Officer, Copel Telecom. "Our long-standing technology collaboration with Coriant has enabled us to keeppace with the capacity demands of end-user applications, and we are proud to announce that our network today is one of the first in Brazil to support 200G transmission." The Coriant solution for Copel Telecom includes enhancements to the Coriant Transcend Chorus transport network management system, which supports simplified end-to-end service provisioning and advanced network control through software-defined programmability and automation. "The tremendous success that Copel Telecom has demonstrated with its residential GPON deployments has been one of the main drivers for increased capacity demand in the backbone network," said Lucas Vanagas, Managing Director for South America, Coriant. "We are pleased to extend our relationship with Copel Telecom by providing the technology innovation, network design and professional services support that allows them to deliver an ultra-fast, always-on internet experience while reducing operations costs." Coriant CloudWave Optics combines advanced digital signal processing, photonic integration, and embedded software to enable flexi-rate coherent interface support including QPSK (100G), 8QAM (150G), and 16QAM (200G), with the latest generation of CloudWave Optics supporting higher baud rates and additional modulation formats, paving the way to transmission speeds of 400G per wavelength. About Copel

Copel - Companhia Paranaense de Energia - generates, transmits, distributes and trades electric energy, and also provides telecommunication services in the state of Parana, Brazil. The Company is one of the largest electric power facilities in Brazil. The Company's position in the sector is a result of over 60 years of experience and technical proficiency in generating, transmitting and distributing electric power. Copel Telecom, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Copel, supplies Copel's telecommunications needs and also provides a broad range of telecom services to other companies, such as telecom operators and corporate customers, as well as to residential consumers. Learn more at www.copeltelecom.com. About Coriant

Coriant delivers innovative and dynamic networking solutions for a fast-changing and cloud-centric business world. The Coriant SDN/NFV-enabled portfolio of open, disruptive, and hyperscale solutions and Multi-Sided Platform innovations helps network operators cost-efficiently scale network capacity, reduce operational complexity, and create the resilient foundation for a new generation of mobile, video, and cloud services. Coriant serves leading network operators around the world, including mobile and fixed line service providers, cloud and data center operators, Web 2.0 content providers, cable MSOs, government agencies, and large enterprises. With a distinguished heritage of technology innovation and service excellence, Coriant is helping its global customers maximize the service value of their network infrastructure as demand for bandwidth explodes and the communications needs of businesses and consumers continue to evolve. Learn more at www.coriant.com and follow us on Twitter for the latest news and information. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180807005021/en/

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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,
West Rockhill supervisor requests another look at township resolution regarding bridges
Letter to editor: Congress can get this right
August 07, 2018

Repost: Saakashvili Wants War? He Will Get It.

This is a repost. The original was published 10 years ago, just a few hours after that little war in Georgia began.

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Despite yesterday's announced ceasefire, the government of Georgia today launched an all out military attack on the breakaway region South Ossetia in northern Georgia.

There are multiple reasons for this conflict. South Ossetia declared itself independent in the early 1990s. Ossetians are a distinct ethnic group with some 60,000 living in South Ossetia and some 500,000 living in North Ossetia which is a part of Russia. Most people in South Ossetia have a Russian passport and there are UN mandated Russian peacekeepers there.

In the bigger picture Georgia is supported by 'the west' as part of an energy transport corridor from the Caspian to the Black Sea.

In 2003 the U.S. engineered Rose revolution brought the U.S. trained lawyer Mikheil Saakashvili to the top of Georgia. He since ruled with a dubious civil rights record. When opposition demonstrations in November 2007 became too big he imposed a state of emergency and suppressed the media.

Why Saakashvili decided to escalate this conflict right now is a bit mysterious. He may hope that the Olympics will distract from the conflict. He seems to have some 'western' support for this escalation:

At the request of Russia, the U.N. Security Council held an emergency session in New York but failed to reach consensus early Friday on a Russian-drafted statement. The council concluded it was at a stalemate after the U.S., Britain and some other members backed the Georgians in rejecting a phrase in the three-sentence draft statement that would have required both sides "to renounce the use of force," council diplomats said.

For internal reasons as much as on foreign policy ground Russia will not allow Saakashvili to take over South Ossetia. It will either support the Ossetians with weapons which may lead to a prolonged guerrilla war, or it may even invade on its own.

Saakashvili already claims Russian intervention in form of air assaults and uses this as a pretext for mobilization of reserves. I'd take that with some grains of salt as it sounds like coming from the Gleiwitz radio station. If three Russian planes really bombed Georgia, they would have left damage. So far none was shown.

Saakashvili may hope for physical help from 'the west', but neither NATO nor the EU has any appetite to support his escapades.

What has led him to this miscalculation?

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So far the repost. Saakashvili's little war unfolded pretty much as foreseen above. After the Georgian artillery attack on Russian peacekeepers the Russian army responded and within five days Georgia was defeated and disarmed. The status quo ante was reinstated. Saakashvili ate his tie (vid).

After the short war Russia diligently analyzed its losses and failures. The war gave impetus to the development of new weapons and tactics. Russian airplanes were equipped with new electronics. Better communication and coordination within the ground troops was emphasized. The high operational capabilities the Russian military demonstrates in Syria would not exist to their extend had that little war not happened.

The other side of the war - the U.S., NATO and Georgia - seems to have learned nothing from it.

Posted by b on August 7, 2018 at 12:00 UTC | Permalink

Comments
A severe shortage of real estate appraisers has North Dakota officials making a request to waive appraisal reports, at least temporarily, on some residential loans. Banking regulators see the move as necessary.



In some parts of the state, appraisal are reportedly taking up to three months. As a result, some of the transactions have fallen through -- hurting timely credit availability for prospective borrowers and slowing economic development.



A joint request was made by North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Department of Financial Institutions Commissioner Lise Kruse and the North Dakota Bankers Association to the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council's Appraisal Subcommittee.
Wells Fargo: Deja Vu All Over Again

Another day, another Wells Fargo PR disaster.

The company is admitting they have foreclosed on about 400 homes owned by borrowers who were not allowed loan modifications to which they were entitled, delayed three years in admitting the problem, and are hoping to cheaply remediate it.

The bank disclosed the problem in a filing last Friday with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Wells Fargo admitted there had been an error in an automated program that persisted for five years and caused over 600 customers to be denied or not offered loan modifications to which they appeared otherwise eligible. The distressed homeowners had applied for the relief primarily through the Home Affordable Modification Program operated by the Treasury Department and the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). Four hundred of those customers ultimately lost their homes to foreclosure.

The problem started in 2010 and was not corrected until the fall of 2015 after it was discovered in an internal review. A spokesperson for the bank had no information on where the foreclosures occurred, but the Charlotte Observer said a number of them occurred in that area. Wells Fargo, based in San Francisco, has a large administrative presence in that North Carolina city.

The bank has largely completed its review of the matter and will begin to reach out to affected customers and offer remediation once it is finished, while admitting it could uncover additional problems. The filing said, "This effort to identify other instances in which customers may have experienced harm is ongoing, and it is possible that we may identify other areas of potential concern."

The bank has set aside $8 million this year to help the affected customers. This breaks down to $12,800 per affected customer.

Deon Roberts, writing in the Observer, said a number of consumer groups in North Carolina are speaking out about the issue, criticizing the bank for the three-year delay in reporting its findings, the amount of the amount set aside for reparations, and the bank's recent history. The state's attorney general Josh Stein is said to be looking into the issue.

It was the latest in a series of mistakes as well as actions that could reasonably be considered fraudulent that have come to light regarding the bank in the last decade. These include selling bad loans to Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the FHA. The most recent suit over this was settled for a $2.1 billion fine just last week. It has also been hit with suits over its auto-lending and student loan practices, paying $1 billion to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Comptroller of the Currency in April.

Among the more recent scandals was the 2016 revelation that its sales force had opened as many as two million deposit and credit card accounts without customers' knowledge or permission. That led to $185 million in fines and the resignation of former chair and CEO John Strumpt.
August Becherer was born in Germany. He served as a Captain in the Fourth Ohio Cavalry during the Civil War. He was a member of nearly every soldiers organization in the city of Dayton at the time of his death.

John B. Wager, August Becherer and Henry Hilgefort opened the Lager Beer Brewery about 1854. It was located on the southeast comer of Hickory and Brown Streets. In 1859, August decided to try it alone and bought out his partners. In 1861, Becherer took on Henry Hussmann as a partner and changed the name to Ohio Brewery. Three years later Hussmann had had enough and left to open a grocery store. August tried again, taking on Phillip Ritter as a partner in 1868, but it only lasted two years. He finally found a lasting partner in Frank Becherer, who became part owner in 1870 and stayed with the company until it was sold to Michael Seubert and Otto C. R. Wilke in 1879. August went on to open the Oakwood Brewery that same year and Frank went to work for August.

August Becherer died at his home on Brown Street on May 11, 1885 at the age of 50. He is located in Section 111 Lot 2324.
Karlsson to Lead Ipsos Business Consulting Singapore

Per-Henrik Karlsson has been promoted to the role of Head of Ipsos Business Consulting in Singapore.



Karlsson (pictured) joined Synovate in 2004 (prior to its 2011 acquisition by Ipsos) as Business Development Manager in Korea, before moving into the position of Business Development Director Central Eastern Europe & The Middle East, leading sales and marketing teams across the regions. For the past six years, he has served as Head of Ipsos Business Consulting Korea, responsible for the set-up of the B2B business unit in the country, and P&L management. Earlier in his career, he spent twelve years in consulting and marketing roles across a range of industries.



He reports to Peter Snell, Global CEO of Ipsos Business Consulting, who comments: 'Singapore continues to be one of the world's most important business hubs and we see continued opportunity and growth in this market. I have known Pelle for many years and seen his excellent work in growing practices in the Middle East and South Korea. We are fortunate to have someone of Pelle's calibre, a very experienced professional, with a record of accomplishment of leading teams that provide market leading advisory services to clients around the world'.



Web site: www.ipsos.com .




Meditation Circuit combines mindfulness meditation and public art in an urban forest.

Imagine the sunlight slanting toward the forest floor, filtered through viridescent leaves and pine needles. Imagine walking slowly, meditatively, through the wedges of light, fully focused on the moment, completely present. Dust motes swirl in the light. Birds call to each other above. A fly buzzes by. Twigs and decaying leaves crunch under foot. From branches above, delicate hemp banners painted in many shades of green to mimic the landscape waft gently on the breeze.

Meditation, the practice of focusing solely on the present moment and letting go of the clutter of the mind, appears to have an increasing number of health benefits. Anne Beffel, professor of visual and performing arts at Michigan Technological University and director of Studio Here Now, intentionally looks for ways to create space for mindfulness within public art. Studio Here Now is a creative public art design studio and gallery located on campus in Wadsworth Residence Hall.

"Art is healing, and that's what I do." Anne Beffel

Though she has worked on a number of installations over the years, including Apologies at the World Financial Center, Color of Kindness and If Then that include aspects of health and healing, Beffel completed mindfulness facilitation at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior in 2016.

Beffel will lead a guided walk with City Meditation Crew August 11, 2018 at Hamlin Park in Shoreline, Washington. City Meditation Crew, a performance art collective, has inspired pedestrians to explore innovative mindfulness practices in public spaces since 2009 in cities from New York to Seattle.

Art as Meditation, Meditation as Art

The Meditation Circuit builds on a public art project in Shoreline in 2017 titled Many Shades of Green, created for David Francis, public art coordinator for the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services in Shoreline, and is presented with the Shoreline Walks program volunteers including Alice Lawson and staff member Marianne Johnson.

Anne Beffel (center) stands with Scott Jackson, trail and outdoor adventure program manager (left) and Andrew Storer, dean of the School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science (right), beneath one of the banners she created for the Meditation Circuit project. Jackson helped Beffel fine-tune and test hanging mechanisms for the banners and Storer plans to hang duplicate banners in the atrium of the U.J. Noblet building on campus.

During the "Many Shades of Green" guided meditation session, participants used cell phones to capture photos of the many shades of green found in the urban forest. The purpose of the cell phone photography was not to take world-class photos, but rather to mindfully meditate on their surroundings through photography. Beffel drew upon participants resulting photos as inspiration to create hemp banners painted with the shades of green captured.

Beffel chose hemp summercloth after a lengthy process of testing fabrics in the wind and rain for a balance of airflow and weight. Each step of curating the project was a practice of being sensitive to the materials, the environment into which the banners would be placed and thoughts about who spends time in the park.

Meditation Circuit is a series of meditation stations along a pathway marked by public art work, Beffel says. Each station offers a mindfulness-oriented activity intended to support well-being. Meditation Circuits demonstrate the power of meditation and the value of public art.

Participants are encouraged to listen to the sounds of the urban forest around them, to stand or walk beneath the canopy of trees, and even to use cell phones as tools of meditationan idea that runs counter to the concept that cell phones are the ultimate tools of distraction.

Beffel says that the meditation circuit combines the practice of mindfulness with exercise and the enjoyment of the outdoors.

"Art like this in a green space, coupled with meditation and movement is a wonderful idea," says John Durocher, assistant professor of biological sciences who is conducting a National Institutes of Health-funded mindfulness meditation study focused on neural cardiovascular control beginning this autumn. "For those who love the outdoors, I could see it as an attractive option for mindfulness meditation versus sitting in a quiet room.

Beffel herself began to integrate walking and spending time outdoors into her art during graduate school, when she realized she wasnt spending time outside or exercising. She says her work is at the intersection of mindfulness, creativity and the outdoors.

The action of meditation appears simple, but sometimes theres a lot going on under the surface, she says. Meditation requires practice, just like most activities that put us into a state of relaxed concentration, or allow us to be present each moment. Sports, music performance or even paintingall support well-being.

The meditation circuit combines the practice of mindfulness with exercise and the enjoyment of the outdoors.

The practice of meditation is erroneously thought to be successful when a person clears or stills the mind and body.

The practice is actually that of noticing how habitually active our minds and bodies are, and then making the choice to return our attention to one thingwhatever we have chosen as our object of attention or awareness, Beffel says. It might be a tree, our foot on the ground, our breath. The acts of noticing and then placing again our mind upon what we choose are the acts of meditation. It is a process not a product.

The display in Shoreline is not the final stage of the project. A separate set of banners will be displayed by the School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science (SFRES).

We are increasingly aware of the health benefits of forests and other natural areas, and the interface between natural areas, aesthetics and human well-being is an important area in which we hope to develop deeper understanding, says Andrew Storer, SFRES dean. In addition to the banners at the meditation stations, a separate set will be available to the School for display in our atrium and also at the Ford Center and Forest, which presents an opportunity for our students, faculty, staff and alumni to explore the aesthetic side of natural resources through Anne's expertise as a faculty member in visual and performing arts.

Michigan Technological University is a public research university founded in 1885 in Houghton, Michigan, and is home to more than 7,000 students from 55 countries around the world. Consistently ranked among the best universities in the country for return on investment, the University offers more than 125 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science and technology, engineering, computing, forestry, business and economics, health professions, humanities, mathematics, social sciences, and the arts. The rural campus is situated just miles from Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, offering year-round opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Tips for Building Stubborn Calves

Written by Team MD

27 March 2019

Tips for Building Stubborn Calves

Want Big Calves? Train for Muscle Growth

The calves are a troublesome body part for most bodybuilders, some of whom look like light bulbs with huge upper bodies, and notably smaller calves. This calf-building primer is a collection of science-based principles for muscle growth that can be applied to build those stubborn calves. Here are five training tips, backed by research, to grow great calves.

Train Calves First

When you see a bodybuilder who is lacking calves, they always seem to train them after a major muscle group such as chest or back. Researchers in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research reported that exercise order has a definite impact on muscle growth.

Participants were randomly assigned into two groups. One group began performing large muscle group exercises and progressed to small muscle group exercises (LG-SM), whereas another group started with small muscle group exercises and advanced to large muscle group exercises (SM-LG). The exercise order for LG-SM was bench press, machine lat pull-down, triceps extension and biceps curl. The order for the SM-LG was biceps curl, triceps extension, lat pull-down and bench press. At the end of 12 weeks, both training groups demonstrated greater strength improvements than the control group, but only bench press strength increased in the LG-SM group, compared to the SM-LG. Triceps muscle volume increased in the SM-LG group.

Based on this study, the muscle group you train first is going to get the most gain in strength and muscle mass, compared to the muscle group you train last. So if you want bigger calves, train them first.

Spineti J, de Salles BF, et al. Influence of exercise order on maximum strength and muscle volume in nonlinear periodized resistance training. J Strength Cond Res, Nov;24(11):2962-9.

Use A Full Range of Motion

Guys in the gym love to load up the calf machine and do quarter-reps and half-reps. Arnold used to train barefoot so he could get a full range of motion for better calves. So how important is range of motion for maximum muscle growth?

Researchers from Italy examined the effect of range of motion at different loads on electromyographic (EMG) activity during the military press. Six experienced lifters performed three sets of 10 reps, each one with a different range of motion (ROM): the first set had a final elbow angle of 90 degrees (R1); the second set had an angle of 135 degrees (R2); and the last set had a final elbow angle of 180 degrees (R3). The 90-degree angle was a partial rep, the 135-degree angle was an incomplete or almost locked-out position, and the 180-degree angle was a full range of motion from the bottom all the way until the arms were locked out.

Not surprisingly, the execution of a complete ROM elicited the greatest deltoid EMG activity, together with the trapezius, showing their synergic activation. During the partial-elbow ROM, there was a decrease of deltoid EMG activity, together with a parallel decrease of the trapezius activity which suggests you not perform the military press with partial-elbow ROM. The intermediate ROM (R2), where the elbow did not completely lock out, did not reduce EMG activity of the deltoid, but significantly reduced electrical activity of the upper traps.

Based on this study, using partial or intermediate reps is not going to fully activate the deltoids and trapezius muscle like doing a full range of motion. The same can be said about calf raises if you are not using a full range of motion, you are not fully activating the muscle.

The days of having a guy sit on the calf machine and doing stinky reps are over. Lighten the weight and use a full range of motion. You may want to consider taking off your shoes to get a better range of motion.

Paoli A, Marcolin G and Petrone N. Influence of different ranges of motion on selective recruitment of shoulder muscles in the sitting military press: an electromyographic study. J Strength Cond Res Jun;24(6):1578-83.

High Reps Increase Protein Signaling in Muscle

Tom Platz used to recommend regular sets of 100 reps to stimulate muscle growth. If you are going to perform 100 rep sets, you are going to have to reduce the amount of weight you are using severely. No more throwing a bunch of 45s on the top of the calf raise machine with the pin at the bottom of the rack. Based on research, you are going to get better increases in muscle growth with lighter weight.

Researchers reported that when subjects trained at 30 percent of one-repetition maximum (1RM) and 90 percent of 1RM, both training protocols stimulated muscle protein synthesis but shockingly, training with the lighter weight and more reps and volume led to greater increases in protein synthesis than training heavier. Specifically, the 30 percent of 1RM to failure protocol induced similar increases in muscle protein synthesis as the 90 percent of 1RM to failure protocol at four hours post-exercise but this response was only sustained at 24 hours in the 30 percent of 1RM group. This means that high volume produced sustained increases in protein synthesis above and beyond the high-intensity protocol.In the past, most researchers speculated that muscle protein synthesis was entirely weight or load dependent.

Another interesting finding was that genes for muscle hypertrophy (i.e., the expression of MyoD mRNA, which is associated with satellite cell activation) tended to be greater than the value at rest at 24 hours post-exercise in the 30 percent of 1RM protocol.

In conclusion, the researchers demonstrated that low-load, high-volume resistance exercise has a potent stimulatory effect on anabolic-signaling molecules, MyoD and myogenin mRNA expression, and muscle protein synthesis.

Burd NA, West DW, et al. Low-load high volume resistance exercise stimulates muscle protein synthesis more than high-load low volume resistance exercise in young men. PLoS One, 9;5(8):e12033.

High Volume for Muscle Growth

Many bodybuilders will perform 30-plus sets for chest, yet perform about five sets of calves and call it a day. You need to crank of the volume of exercise in order to get those diamond calves to stick out.

In an article published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, researchers suggested that a greater volume of resistance exercise turns on signaling proteins for increased protein synthesis. Resistance exercise causes the acute increase in several mediators of protein synthesis, in particular mTOR, p70S6 kinase (p70S6k) and the ribosomal protein S6, which are thought to regulate muscle protein synthesis. Moreover, previous research reported that increased p70S6k following an initial bout of resistance training is closely correlated with the increase in human skeletal muscle mass after a few months of continuous training.

Researchers from Greece performed muscle biopsies on subjects before exercise, on an empty stomach. After the biopsies, subjects were broken into three groups to perform one set of 6RM, three sets of 6RM, or five sets of 6RM. Immediately after exercise, the subjects had another muscle biopsy taken to examine the changes from pre- to post-exercise. At the end of the study, two key regulators of protein synthesis, p70S6 kinase (p70S6k) and the ribosomal protein S6, were increased acutely after exercise to an extent that depended on exercise volume. The group that performed five sets of exercise had greater increases in molecular responses of protein related to muscle hypertrophy.

This was a rare study that acutely looked at the molecular events associated with performing more sets. Furthermore, it seems that molecular proteins enhancing muscle hypertrophy are responsive to the number of contractions performed, which may lead to enhanced muscle mass following high-volume exercise. Based on this study, to get those calves growing, you need to perform just as many sets as any other muscle group such as chest or back.

Terzis G, Spengos K, et al. The degree of p70S6k and S6 phosphorylation in human skeletal muscle in response to resistance exercise depends on the training volume. Eur J Appl Physiol, published online.

Donkey Calf Raises Are King

Arnold was a big advocate of donkey calf raises for increasing muscle growth of the calves. Perhaps youve seen the classic black-and-white photo of Dave Draper on Arnolds back, while Arnold is doing donkey calf raises. The donkey calf raise machine, which you can rarely find in gyms these days, is one of the best machines for blasting calves. In a study of electrical activation of the calf muscle in response to different exercise, the donkey calf raise turned out to be the king of exercises for working the calves.

EMG Activity of Different Calf Machines

Donkey Calf Raises  80%

Standing One-leg Calf Raises  79%

Standing Two-leg Calf Raises  68%

Seated Calf Raises  61%

Bompa T. Periodization - 4th Edition: Theory and Methodology of Training. Copyright 1999.

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By PTI

NEW DELHI: Rajan Nanda, chairman of tractor and construction equipment maker Escorts and father-in-law of Amitabh Bachchan's daughter Shweta, died last night after a brief illness.

He was 76, a company statement said.

Nanda, who joined Escorts in 1965 at the age of 23 and took over the reins of the company when his father and founder chairman H P Nanda stepped down in 1994 after a 50-year-long innings, died at the Medanta Hospital in Gurgaon.

Incidentally, Medanta was founded by renowned cardiac surgeon Naresh Trehan who once used to run the Escorts Heart Institute & Research Centre owned by Rajan.

The hospital was sold to Fortis in 2005 to bring down debt at Escorts.

He also dabbled in the telecom industry, launching cellular services in west Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Kerala under the Escotel brand in 1997.

He, however, had to sell the business to Idea Cellular in 2004 at a loss as it could not compete with players with deep pockets.

It was under his stewardship that new technologies were introduced in various businesses to spearhead the growth to the next level.

Nanda was also instrumental in setting up an R&D facility for Escorts at Faridabad which today is the bedrock for innovation and new product development.

On hearing of demise, Amitabh Bachchan, who was filming 'Brahmastra' in Bulgaria, is returning to India.

His daughter, Shweta is married to Nanda's son, Nikhil.

Nikhil is managing director of the company.

"My relative Mr Rajan Nanda, Nikhil's Father, Father in Law of Shweta, just passed away leaving for India," Big B wrote in a blog post.

"My hidden heart can bleed within unseen but it takes not away the pain of its emission instead it pleads not for attention but gets beaten for the absence of its attention about," he wrote.

CII President Rakesh Bharti Mittal said with the demise of Nanda, India has lost a powerful force and industry stalwart.

"CII has had the benefit of his visionary thoughts and guidance from time to time on policy matters to move industry always in a progressive way in the country, especially agriculture.

His style of functioning included innovative ideas and strong engagement with all in a consensual manner," he added.

Nanda's passion shone through in everything he did and his business acumen helped drive the manufacturing sector of the country as a whole, Mittal said.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Indias automotive component industry on Monday asked for a uniform 18 per cent GST across the sector, stating that low taxation would lead to better compliance and larger tax base.

At present, 60 per cent of auto components attract 18 per cent GST rate, while the rest 40 per cent, majority of which are two-wheelers and tractor components, attract 28 per cent.

The latter high rate has led to flourishing grey operations in the aftermarket. A benign rate of 18 per cent will not only ensure better compliance, but will also ensure a larger tax base, said Nirmal Minda, president, Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA).

ACMA also asked for creation of a fund to support indigenous research and development and technology creation in the component industry. For the development of electric vehicles, ACMA sought a clear technology-agnostic road map.

ACMA also informed that the component industry grew by 18.3 per cent to Rs 3.45 lakh crore in FY 2017-18, despite facing several regulatory challenges. Exports of auto components grew by 23.9 per cent to Rs 90,571 crore from Rs 73,128 crore in 2016-17.

Europe accounted for 34 per cent of exports followed by North America and Asia, with 28 per cent and 25 per cent respectively.

The industry contributes 2.3 per cent to Indias GDP and has a share of 4 per cent in the countrys overall exports.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce on Monday recommended that the Reserve Bank revoke the ban on letters of comfort (LoC) and letters of undertaking (LoU) at the earliest.

The report from the panel went on to note that the RBIs ban was a typical case of throwing the baby along with the bathwater.

The central bank had, in March this year, banned banks from issuing LoCs and LoUs after the Rs 14,000 crore Punjab National Bank scam came to light.

These instruments, extensively used by exporters and international traders to get foreign exchange credit, had been the primary avenue through which the scam had been perpetrated.

However, the panel noted that the RBIs move was a knee-jerk reaction. The committee strongly feels the RBI has perhaps not held enough consultations before deciding, adding that the RBI should have done more scrutiny and that the discontinuation of issuance of LoUs and LoCs (was) a knee-jerk reaction by the RBI to the recent frauds.

The committee also noted that in its response to the Department of Financial Services on the banks impact on credit cost for short-term foreign currency loans, the central bank had admitted to possessing no comparative data.

If this is the case, the Committee is constrained to say that the RBI should have done more scrutiny, the panels report said.

The discontinuation of the two trade finance instruments have reportedly resulted in significant escalation in the cost of credit for those who need foreign credit for overseas purchases -- especially importers and exporters in the gems and jewellery sector.

Ratings agency India Ratings had also noted in a report in April, that the ban would increase finance costs for projects where a substantial portion of plant and machinery is required to be imported.

The committee therefore recommends that LoU/LoC should be restored at the earliest, albeit with proper safeguards, the panel submitted. Meanwhile, the panel has also recommended that maximum concessions be offered to MSME on charges for letters of credit.
By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: Superbikes-maker Benelli is planning to set up a manufacturing facility near Hyderabad in Telangana, as the globally reputed player in the segment is aiming to make inroads into the Indian market in a big way.

Benelli on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Telangana government to set up an indigenous manufacturing facility. The facility will be set up in two phases. In the first phase, a three-acre unit would be set up at Medchal near Hyderabad, with a capacity to produce 10,000 bikes per year. It is expected to be operational by October. The second unit will span across 20 acres. The company is scouting for land for this.

Benelli also entered into an agreement with Adishwar Auto Ride India (AARI), a subsidiary of Mahavir Group, to market its exclusive product range in India and also set up a CKD assembly plant for it in Hyderabad. The partnership also entitles AARI to assemble and manufacture Benelli bikes and also import its exclusive range of bikes from Italy and South-East Asia regions.

In the first phase, superbikes will be assembled at the Hyderabad plant. In the second phase, complete manufacturing will be undertaken. The first phase of the plant will have the capacity to produce 10,000 bikes per year. We are aiming to sell more than 3,000 bikes in next 12-18 months, once the production starts at the new facility. We are also looking for land in Telangana to set up the second phase of the manufacturing facility, which will be spread over 20 acres. Benelli has sold 5,650 units across India till now.

While the two-wheeler market is growing at 10 per cent per annum, superbikes market is growing at 30-40 per cent per annum. We are confident that the indigenous manufacturing facility will help us in increasing our sales in a huge way. Currently, we have 21 per cent market share in the superbike segment in India and our aim is to surpass 30 per cent by 2021, said Vikas Jhabakh, MD, Benelli India, explaining the companys India plans.

The first phase of the manufacturing facility will create 100-120 jobs. The Benelli representatives did not reveal details of the investment.
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Following the recommendation by the ministry of textile, the government has announced to double import duty on 328 textile products to 20 per cent, which it says will boost the ailing textile sector, promote local manufacturing and create employment opportunity.

The government informed the parliament that it seeks to increase customs duty on 328 tariff lines of textile products from the existing rate of 10 per cent to 20 per cent...under Section 159 of the Customs Act, 1962,a notification tabled by Minister of State for Finance Pon Radhakrishnan in the Lok Sabha said.

According to finance Ministry sources, the move came after the recommendation from the textile ministry, which had said that local manufacturing is suffering due to cheaper imports from China and other neighbouring countries.

By imposing import duty, government will further enhance employment prospects of the job intensive sector like textile, which roughly employs about 10.5 crore people. The import duty will make local manufacturing more competitive against the cheap imported products.

Also the proposed recommendation for up to 20 per cent duty hike on textile products, will be compatible with the World Trade Organization (WTO).

This is for the second time government increased import duty. Last month, the government had doubled import duty on over 50 textile products -- including jackets, suits and carpets -- to 20 per cent.

As per industry estimates, imports of textile yarn, fabric and made-up articles have grown by 8.58 per cent to $168.64 million in June, of which, about $3 billion were from China. Exports of cotton yarn, fabrics, made-ups, handloom products grew by 24 per cent to $986.2 million in the same month. While man-made yarn, fabrics, made-ups exports grew only 8.45 per cent to $403.4 million, while exports of all textile readymade garments dipped by 12.3 per cent to $13.5 billion at the same time.

However, the 20 percent duty will not be applicable to products sourced from Bangladesh, Vietnam and Cambodia countries due to the FTA.
By AFP

MUMBAI: Indian ride-hailing company Ola announced on Tuesday that it is to launch services in Britain, expanding its foray abroad and intensifying its battle with US rival Uber.

Britain will be Ola's second venture into a foreign market after it started operations in Australia in February.

Ola said in a statement that it had obtained licenses to operate in South Wales and Greater Manchester.

It said it would start the South Wales operations within the next month and was inviting private vehicle owners and taxi drivers to partner with it.

"Ola is excited to announce its plans for the UK, one of the world's most evolved transportation markets," co-founder Bhavish Aggarwal said in the press release.

Ola plans to expand its services across Britain, where Uber already has a presence, by the end of the year, the company added.

Ola was launched in 2011 and claims to handle around a billion rides a year across India's major centres and seven cities in Australia.

Ride-hailing apps are booming in India despite stiff opposition from traditional taxi firms and some initial concerns about passenger safety.

Ola and Uber are locked in an aggressive fight for a greater share of India's taxi-app market, which is estimated to be worth around $10 billion.

Both companies are backed by Japan's SoftBank Group and recently ventured into the food delivery business, further intensifying their rivalry.
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: South Division police who are probing the kidnap and murder of two realtors arrested seven more people on Monday. Investigations revealed that the prime accused Tejus was earlier arrested by JP Nagar police for assaulting the son of a retired IPS officer and his employees over a financial dispute a year ago. The city-based realtors Prasad Babu (47), a resident of RR Nagar, and his friend A Balaji (44) from Girinagar, went missing on June 27 and they were smothered to death by Tejus and his gang over a property dispute.

A senior police officer told The New Indian Express that three accused, including Tejus, were arrested on Saturday and Tejus revealed the names of seven others. The other accused are Sathish Mathi (24), Anand P (29), Krishna N (28), Harish Kumar (37), Mukhesh (26), Balaji M (25) and Yavaraju (25). All are residents of Jayanagar and J P Nagar.The police officer said, The investigators took almost 40 days to crack the case as Tejus misled the investigation officer by saying that Prasad and Balaji were close associates of notorious criminal Cycle Ravi, who kidnapped them. He assured the officer that they would return on their own and that there was no need to worry.

He even brought the family of the victims before the police and convinced them that he had no role in the case. In fact Tejus had just joined the families when they came to file a case and were searching for Prasad and Balaji.Even before the investigation began, the accused had a plan in place to shift the blame on someone who had no connection with the case. All evidence was completely destroyed.

Two of the habitual offenders who went missing after the incident were caught in CCTV camera and a special team shadowed their movements to nab them. The accused were seen near the farm house of Tejus. All the accused were taken into police custody for further investigations. DNA report is awaited.

Mobiles were burnt to destroy evidence

The assailants after killing Prasad and Balaji switched off the phones of the victims after noticing more than 100 calls made by their family members and relatives. After burying the bodies, they went to ThottiKallu Falls on Kanakapura Road and also burnt the mobiles. They switched off the GPS service to hide their locations.
Samuel Merigala By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: Over the last week, around 20 loads of soil have been dumped into the unused Muslim burial ground in Chromepet. Local activists say it is an attempt to change the topography of the three-acre compound, which is one of the first encroachments on the Pallavaram Periya Eri. It is learned that members linked to the Chrompet Masjid, which controls the unused burial ground, have arranged around 200 loads of soil to be dumped into the burial ground to ensure it doesnt look like its part of the lake.

Locals told Express that the loads of soil were brought in the nights to avoid raising any eyebrows. Since the compound for the burial ground was built some years back, there has been no activity in the land. I was surprised to see soil being dumped inside, said a woman, who lives nearby. A few mechanics who use the land to park vehicles they repair, told us the mosque is going to raise the level of the burial ground, she said. While raising the level of the burial ground might change the topography of the burial compound, locals fear that the increased height will prevent rain water from flowing into the lake and flood their homes.

Officials at the Chrompet Masjid were unavailable for comment, but a few locals, who have been actively supporting the dumping of soil in the burial ground, said there would be no adverse effects to the community.

Ironically, locals claim the soil is being sourced from the Periya Eri, which the burial ground is encroaching upon. After seeking permission of the Department of Geology and Mining, and paying concession fees, the contractor who is restoring the Pallavaram lake has been selling the soil sourced from the lake after deepening.

A supervisor overseeing restoration works refused to confirm if soil was indeed being dumped in the burial ground. He however said, To whom we sell the sand to is our prerogative.
By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: As part of a unique citizen outreach program, the Cyberabad Traffic Police has roped in techies from various top IT companies to not only help the traffic police in managing the traffic but also in catching violators. Of the 200 odd active volunteers, 27% of the volunteers are women, a number which peaked this year. My office is on the top floor and I could see the crazy traffic pile up at the Dell Junction near Lemon Tree Hotel. So when we were asked if we wanted to volunteer, I said yes, says 38 year old Christina Castellino, an IT professional.

Christina, along with three other female colleagues manages the heavy traffic influx coming in from Dell, Oracle, Mahindra and Mylan etc in the 5:30 - 7:30 PM slot.These traffic volunteers, who render services at Wipro, IIIT, Google, Gachibowli-ORR Junction, Biodiversity Junction, wear red jackets and a badge with a unique Traffic Volunteer number. As per statistics, the volunteers reported as many as 200 violations during the week.

We dont expect people to change, but at least the 200 volunteers and their friends might change, notes Krishna Yedula, head of the traffic forum of Society for Cyberabad Security Council. Meanwhile traffic officials are said to be taking inputs from the citizen volunteers. Since they are at the spot of action, we want them to give us feedback on the infrastructure and what is needed to make things better, This will help the traffic police, said Cyberabad Traffic DCP, Vijay Kumar.
By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even as the state government stress on centralised projects in waste management, the local bodies are continuing their experimentation with decentralised projects. Latest in the series is the Thiruvananthapuram City Corporations decision to open up a material-recovery facility (MRF) at Pattom ward for non-biodegradable waste management as part of its My city, beautiful city project. With this, the MRFs in the city has risen to 35.

The corporation is not against centralised projects. With no option available at present, we have to move towards decentralised projects including MRF. Our waste treatment plant at Vilappilsala had to be shut down owing to local protests. Even now the centralised project being mulled at Peringamala village is facing uncertainty as protests have started to erupt against it, said Rakhi Ravikumar, deputy mayor, Thiruvananthapuram Corporation.

Last August, in the backdrop of unscientific disposal of waste and garbage in the state, the state government had mulled the idea of initiating a major overhaul in waste management practices as it toys with the idea of ensuring private sectors participation in it.

Under this, private players with proven expertise in the field will be allowed to set up modern waste management plants. Then in June, the government came out with the idea of establishing seven solid waste-to-energy (WtE) systems in the state- Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Kannur, Kollam and Malappuram districts.

At the same time, Suchitwa Mission opines that if the menace of waste management has to be addressed in an effective manner then centralised and decentralised projects have to go in tandem. According to it, the centralised projects were being pitched at urban areas and the plants thus established are meant only for treating urban refuse. The plants that will function in an environment-friendly manner will work in tandem with the respective Local Self-Government Institutions(LSGI).

Land scarcity is a major issue in Kerala. The location of waste management plants has always a challenge. Above all, we have to tackle local protests. It is in this backdrop that a decision to set up WtE plants in the state has been taken. The plan is such that the waste generated within a distance of around 25 to 35 km of the plant will be collected and transported and then it will be treated, said an officer with Suchitwa Mission.

Meanwhile, LSG Minister K T Jaleel said that considering the situation of the state, one cannot move forward with a single solution and thus centralized and decentralized projects are the need of the hour. When asked about the protests being raised against centralized waste management plants, the minister such that it is out of a misunderstanding that the people were objecting the same and added they will amend their stance as soon as they come in terms with the proposed state of the art treatment plants of international standards.
By Express News Service

VIJAYAWADA: Infrastructure and Investment Department has received an overwhelming response from as many as 13 national and international agencies in the pre-bid meeting for the development of Greenfield International Airport at Bhogapuram. Describing the response a welcome step, Energy, Infrastructure and Investment Department Principal Secretary Ajay Jain said that the 13 agencies were taken to the field visit at Bhogapuram for better understanding of field conditions.

The agencies are expected to submit their response to the RFQ (Request for Quotation) by September 10. The agencies which participated in the pre-bid meeting are highly reputed and they include Ramkey, Do It, Essel, GVK, GMR, ADPI (France), NIIF (with Fraport), Oberoi, AE COM of America, BIAL, Reliance with Zurich Airport, Italy Group (EPC and minor stake in Airports) and Nellore Airport. Stating that commercial operations from Dagadarthi airport in Nellore district are expected to commence from January 2020, he said the project is envisaged to be a low cost no-frills airport to be developed on PPP basis in 1,352 acres of land at a cost of Rs 368 crore. This will be the first airport project to be developed in the new State on PPP basis, he added.


By Express News Service

VIJAYAWADA: In a show of Opposition unity against the BJP-led NDA government, Opposition parties ensured election of TDP MP CM Ramesh as the member of the Public Accounts Committee. He garnered 106 votes in the election held on Monday. What came as a surprise was the MPs of the Congress, a political rival of the TDP, extending their support to Ramesh. Though the number of TDP MPs in the Rajya Sabha is only six, Ramesh managed to get more votes with the support of not just other Opposition parties, but also the Congress.

Following his victory, Ramesh told media in Delhi, The Opposition showed its unity and voted for me. This is a victory for the Opposition, the government is the loser.After snapping its ties with the BJP, the TDP has been fighting with the NDA to get APs due from the Centre and even moved a no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha against the government and managed to garner the support of Opposition parties.

Meanwhile, with Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu announcing August 9 as the date for electing his deputy, the TDP, which has already decided to vote against the BJP, also is learnt to have played a crucial role in bringing all opposition parties together to defeat the candidate supported by the saffron party.

On the other hand, Opposition YSRC also decided not to support the BJP. However, it is yet to take a decision whether to support the Opposition parties candidate or not.When contacted by TNIE, YSRC former MP YV Subba Reddy said they had already taken a decision not to vote in favour of the BJP candidate for the deputy chairman post. However, we will discuss the matter and will take a decision whether to support the candidate to be fielded by Opposition parties or not after holding a meeting soon, he said.

After the resignation of five of its MPs was accepted, YSRC has only two members in the Rajya Sabha. Resenting the Centres move to take back the Rs 350 crore within a week after depositing it in the account of the State government towards development backward districts, the TDP MPs staged a walkout from the Lok Sabha on Monday.Raising the issue in the Lok Sabha, Srikakulam MP K Rammohan Naidu said after depositing the money on February 9, the Centre within a week had taken back the money without any intimation to the State government, which he said was a shameful act on part of the Centre.On the pretext that the State government not submitted Utilisation Certificates (UCs), the Centre took back the funds notwithstanding the fact that AP stood third in submission of UCs, he said.
A Sharadhaa By

Express News Service

Even as Dinesh Baboo-directorial Amrutha Varshini is still talk of the town among filmmakers and cine-goers, serious work is in progress for a sequel. This is sure to bring cheer to Kannada movie lovers. While the first part starred

Ramesh Aravind, Suhasini, Sharath Babu and Niveditha Jain, the second part, in the last leg of scripting, is also likely to have Ramesh back on board.

The film will be produced by Jayashree Devi, who has previously done Mukunda Murari. Our sources tell us that producer-director will soon begin pre-production work. Like in the first part, Ramesh Aravind is likely to play the lead. However, the team still has to approach the actor.

A few youngsters, who are yet-to-be finalised, are also expected to be part of the romantic drama, sources say.

Ramesh played the role of Abhishek, who is obsessed with Veena (played by Suhasini), and even goes out his way to kill her husband Hemanth (played by Sharath Babu). The songs composed by Deva - Tunturu, E Sundara, Manase Baduku, Yela Shilpagaligu.. which still can be the top in the chartbusters.

Amrutha Varshini won accolades and awards, and was even dubbed in Telugu and Tamil, and remade in Malayalam. Having tasted success in the first part, the makers have seem to have figured out the right formula. Now, well have to wait and watch Ramesh Aravinds positioning in the film, and the directors vision for the sequel.
By Express News Service

MG Srinivass upcoming directorial, Birbal Trilogy - Case 1 Finding Vajramuni, currently in the post production stage is focussing on colour grading. He believes that a colourist is half story teller and half technician. His work is no less of an art, says Srinivas, who is associating with Hollywood colourist, Walter Cavatoi. Given that Birbal is a dark and edgy crime drama, I wanted to create a visual impact like the ones Hollywood films do.

Walter Cavatoi

So when I was looking for a colourist from Hollywood, the VFX artiste, Srinivasa Kalyana, who worked in my previous film, suggested that I look into the works of Walter Cavotoi. His works, be it feature films, documentaries, advertisements, music videos or short films, are a class apart. So, I decided to approach him with the script and he agreed to come on board, explains Srinivas.

As a filmmaker, he need clarity regarding our colour temperature and palette and Walters involvement has made this process a smooth and enlightening one for the director and actor. We need to know all about our day and night shots and their colour output much before we commence the shoot.

Walter Cavatoi is a US- based colourist. This Italian technician has ten years experience and is a member of world -renowned Colourist Society International. Walter wanted to look into the script before hand. We had several rounds of discussions regarding the camera format, lighting and budget constraints before signing on the dotted line. You can get an idea of his work by watching our teaser.

Davinci Resolve is the software that is being used to grade Birbal and having seen Walters work in the teaser, the grading company has featured the same on its official social platforms dedicated to featuring the best colour grading works. This way, Birbal becomes the first Kannada film to have achieved this feat. With this development, the Kannada trilogy has caught the eyes of colourists from across the world, says Srinivas.

Produced by TR Chandrashekar under Crystal Park Cinemas, the film has MG Srinivas playing the role. The film has Saurabh Vaibhav scoring its music and cinematography by Bharath Parashuram.
By Online Desk

DMK president M Karunanidhi passed away on Tuesday after prolonged illness at the age of 94 in Chennai's Kauvery Hospital.

"Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond," said a press release by Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Executive Director of Kauvery Hospital.

Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan said Tamil Nadu government can't allot land near Anna Memorial for laying former CM and DMK chief M Karunanidhi to rest, since many petitions are pending before courts. However, government is ready to allot two acres of lands near Gandhi Mandapam.

Soon after, flash protests erupted across Chennai with DMK party cadres demanding that their late leader be buried at Anna Memorial in Marina Beach.

Following the protests, DMK lawyer P Wilson filed a petition to acting Chief Justice of Madras High Court Huluvadi G Ramesh requesting land next to Anna Samadhi for burying Karunanidhi. The Acting Chief Justice has asked Wilson to come back by around 10:30 pm on Wednesday after numbering the petition in Madras High Court.

Karunanidhi's body will be kept at Rajaji hall for public homage from 4 am.

The veteran of Dravidian politics was shifted to the hospital on July 28 from his Gopalapuram residence following a dip in his blood pressure and he was under treatment in the Intensive Care Unit ever since.
By Online Desk

The 14th sitting of the monsoon session of Indian Parliament commenced today after passing two crucial Bills in both the Houses on Monday. Prior to the Session, the NDA government and the Opposition Congress party held Parliamentary meetings today to discuss their strategies for the remaining days of the session.

The Rajya Sabha unanimously passed The Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2017, which provides a constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC). And the Lok Sabha after receiving much backlash from the Dalits passed the SC/ ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018, which revives the struck down clauses from the existing Bill.

Union Finance Minister Piyush Goyal is likely to move for leave to withdraw Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance, Bill, 2017 to provide for the resolution of certain categories of financial service providers in distress.

Here are the live updates from the proceedings:
Fayaz Wani By

Express News Service

SRINAGAR: Five Lashkar-e-Toiba militants, including a commander, were killed in an encounter with security forces in Kiloora village of South Kashmirs Shopian district on Saturday, while a civilian died in Army firing on protestors during clashes at the native village of one of the slain militants.

The police, CRPF and Army men had laid siege around Kiloora village on Friday evening after a tip-off that Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militants were hiding there. As the security men challenged, the militants fired at them. The troops returned the fire, the official said. The exchange of fire continued till Saturday morning.

Five LeT men - Umar Nazir Malik, Arshad Ahmad Khan, Aijaz Ahmad Pul, Waqar Ahmed Sheikh and Arif Ahmad Mir - were killed. Umar, according to police, was a commander.

Thousands of people visited the native place of the slain militants and attended their funeral prayers amidst chanting of pro-freedom, pro-Islamic and anti-India slogans. During the funeral of Arshad at Ganowpora village of Shopian, clashes erupted between Army and locals. Youths pelted stones on soldiers, who retaliated with bullets.

READ | Over a dozen injured in clashes with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian

Three sustained injuries in Army firing. One of them, Bilal Ahmad Khan, 20, was critically injured and succumbed to his injuries.

Meanwhile, the Lashkar commander Naveed Jhat, who escaped from police custody in a Srinagar hospital in February this year, appeared in funeral of Waqar Ahmad Sheikh at Malikgund village of Shopian. He fired some rounds in air to pay tributes to his fallen comrades.

Naveed, a Pakistani, is one of the most wanted militants and is also one of the accused in the murder of Rising Kashmir editor Shujaat Bukhari.
Aishik Chanda By

Express News Service

KOLKATA: Large parts of western districts of West Bengal were inundated after heavy rains and release of water from dams in Jharkhand on Monday.

Flood-like situation emerged in Bankura district after it received 354 mm of rains in last 24 hours, of which 239 mm rains poured from 5.30 am to 8.30 am on Monday leading to rise in water levels in Gandheswari river.

Several people were injured after a few houses collapsed due to heavy rains. Several others were rescued by the locals.

Regional Meteorological Centre at Alipore predicts more rainfall in eastern Jharkhand and western West Bengal on Tuesday sparking fears that Jharkhand will have to open the sluice gates several dams in its territory which lie on higher grounds of Chotanagpur plateau bringing flash floods in the Bengal plains in Bankura, Hooghly and Paschim Medinipur districts of West Bengal.

More than 60 people had died in West Bengal in floods last monsoon due to heavy rains leading to release of waters from dams in Jharkhand. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had called for de-silting of the dams in the neighbouring state.
By Express News Service

MUMBAI: Assurance given by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis are unlikely to have any effect on Maratha stir. This became clear on Monday when the Beed district collector conveyed the assurances in written form to the protestors at Parli. However, the protestors said that they would think over it before taking any decisions.

Meanwhile, Nandurbar and Dhule district remained shut today as a reaction to attack on BJP MP Heena Gavit. The tribal community appeared to be up against the Maratha community even as Gavit, in the parliament, demanded action against the protestors under the atrocities act.

On other hand, the opposition Congress and NCP criticized CM Devendra Fadnavis over deferring proposed mega-recruitment of the state government. MPCC chief Ashok Chavan alleged that the government is trying pitch Marathas against other communities, while NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik alleged that Fadnavis is misleading Marathas.

After CM Fadnavis assured the Maratha community in a televised statement on Sunday evening that the government is ensuring all possible statutory procedures would be completed before November end to facilitate the quota for the Maratha community and its plans of mega recruitment drive too have been stalled till then taking into account the apprehensions of the community, the Maratha leaders had welcomed the statement and wanted to see it in writing.

However, when the Beed district collector went with an official letter to the protestors on Monday evening, the protestors said that they will think over it before announcing their decision on whether to withdraw the stir or not.

Though there were no new acts of suicide or violence on the part of the Maratha community on Monday, a strict 'bandh' was observed in North Maharashtra districts of Nandurbar and Dhule.

The bandh was to express solidarity with BJP MP from Nandurbar Lok Sabha constituency Heena Gavit, who was attacked by Maratha protestors on Sunday. Gavit raised the issue in Lok Sabha on Monday. She said that she was singled out for the attack and demanded that the case in this regard be registered under the atrocity act, as she cames from tribal community.

"The attackers wanted to overturn my vehicle. I was lucky to escape the attack unhurt. But, that was certainly an attempt on my life," the MP said. Meanwhile, criticizing Fadnavis for his decision to defer proposed mega-recruitment of the state government, state Congress chief Ashok Chavan said that the CM had always lied on issues like farmers' loan waiver, Maratha quota, Dhangar quota etc. and hence assurance given by him can't be trusted.

He also criticized the government for not granting reservation to Muslims even though the court had upheld the UPA government's decision in that regard. He also accused the BJP of politicizing the issue and added that though the attack on BJP MP Heena Gavit is deplorable, it is the outcome of the state government's time killing tactics.
By Online Desk

CHENNAI: The All India Motor Transport Organisation has called for a one-day nationwide strike, demanding the withdrawal of the proposed Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Bill. Private buses, autorickshaws, and taxis will stay off the roads on Tuesday as part of the protest.

Contract vehicles and lorries will also participate in the strike.

The Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Bill has been passed by the Lok Sabha and is awaiting approval from the Rajya Sabha.

ALSO READ: All-India motor vehicle strike: Bus, app-based cab services unlikely to be affected

If passed, the Bill promises to bring widespread changes to the Motor Vehicle (MV) Act of 1988, including higher penalties for traffic rules violations, protection for good samaritans from legal harassment, stricter rules to avoid minors driving, and a ten-fold increase in compensation for accident victims' families.

According to those protesting against it, the amendment seeks to divest certain powers of states to frame rules, resulting in concentration of power at the Centre.

Apart from the withdrawal of the MV (Amendment) Bill, workers are also demanding for:

Withdrawal of hike in insurance premium.

Restriction of price hike of petroleum products.

Normal life affected

With autorickshaw unions laying off work in solidarity with the protest, private school students in Chennai had to turn to government buses and other modes of transport.

Multiple universities in Kerala, including Mahatma Gandhi University, have postponed exams which were scheduled for Tuesday.

To make matters worse for commuters, Kerala State Road Transport Corporation buses are staying off the roads, demanding salary revision, disbursement of dearness allowance (DA) arrears and interim relief. Long-distance train passengers arriving at Thampanoor railway station this morning had a harrowing time waiting for hours to get transport.

Attendance was low in government offices, especially in the Kerala Secretariat. Only private vehicles like cars and two-wheelers were seen plying the roads.

The strike did not affect operations in Bengaluru. Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) Staff and Workers Federation, affiliated to the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), had decided not to participate. Private bus unions also decided to work on Tuesday.

(With inputs from ENS and PTI)
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Amid demand for including the legislative proposal for the Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act in the ninth schedule to insulate it from judicial scrutiny, the Lok Sabha on Monday passed the bill which seeks to undo the dilutions of provisions following the March 20 Supreme Court order.

The Bill proposes that the FIR could be registered on complaints of offences against the SCs/STs, while there would not be need for prior sanction for arrests of the government officials, besides the offences would be non-bailable.

The leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha Mallikarjuna Kharge, while supporting the legislative proposal, demanded that the bill be included in the ninth schedule of the Constitution. The BJP MP Vinod Kumar Sonkar sought that the reservation norms be made mandatory in the contractual recruitment also.

Sonkar also exhorted the government to give legislative backing to the reservation for the SCs/STs, which is currently is in force through an administrative order.

Stating that since India embraced liberalisation in 1991 employment opportunities for the SCs/STs in government have been declining, Sonkar asked the government to accept the demand for reservation in contractual recruitment also.

The BJP MP also concurred with the demand of Kharge that all cases which were slapped against Dalit activists for taking part in the April 2 Bharat Bandh be withdrawn, besides releasing those who are languishing in jails.

While introducing the Bill, Union Minister Thavarchand Gehlot argued that the SC has nullified the scheduled castes and tribes prevention of atrocities act following the March 20 order.

This Bill seeks to reinstate the provisions of the Act, besides 25 other offences under section 18A. The abuse of the law in the case of SC/ST Act is about 11 per cent, while for the same in cases of other IPC sections is about 7-8 per cent. This couldnt have been the ground to dilute the provisions of the law for the protection of the vulnerable sections of the society, he said.

NCBC Bill passed in Rajya Sabha

Parliament has passed a Bill to provide constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes, as several members in the Rajya Sabha urged the government to make public the findings of the caste census and implement reservation accordingly.

The Upper House adopted the legislation along with the amendments made by the Lok Sabha, by 156 votes to nil. Over two-thirds majority of those present voted in favour of the Bill.
By IANS

MUMBAI: The Bombay High Court on Tuesday rejected jailed gangster Abu Salem's plea for a 45-day parole to get married to his Thane-based girlfriend.

A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice V.K. Tahilramani and Justice M.S. Sonak declined the request on the ground that under the prison rules, those convicted under terror charges were not eligible either for furlough or parole.

Currently lodged in the Taloja Jail, Raigad, Salem moved the High Court after his earlier application for parole was rejected by the Konkan Divisional Commissioner (KDC) - the competent authority in such cases - in March on security grounds.

Through his lawyer Farhana Shah, he informed the High Court on Tuesday that the KDC had refused his application "without proper application of the mind" for his previously planned marriage on May 5.

Convicted for his role in the March 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, Salem had reportedly married' his girlfriend, Heena alias Kausar Bahar, a resident of Mumbra town in Thane district.

Extradited from Portugal in November 2005, he claimed to have married Heena in 2014 over the phone while en route to Lucknow for a court case though she had made certain conflicting statements later.

He contended that he wanted to properly formalize his marriage with Heena by going to the registrar's office and needed parole for this.

Originally hailing from Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh, Salem was convicted and sentence to life imprisonment for his role in the Mumbai serial blasts and other cases, besides being an accused in several other major cases, under trial in different parts of India.

In December 2014, he had complained to the Portugal authorities seeking cancellation of his deportation to India claiming that the extradition terms and conditions were allegedly violated.
Ritwika Mitra By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: People are passing through an anti-intellectual mood and there is a disappearance of ideological debates in the current political discourse, said S Jaipal Reddy, AICC spokesperson and former Union minister, ahead of the launch of his book, Ten Ideologies  The Great Asymmetry between Agrarianism and Industrialism.

Currently, nationalism and capitalism are dominating the discourse in India and in the world, said Reddy.

Referring to the ruling BJP government, he said its ideology was based on nationalism.

I do not think they have a strong economic ideology. Their ideology is nationalism which is nothing but communalism. Their ideology is based on religion. Nationalism has both a positive and negative side.

However, he added that the book was written at an academic level and he did not want to bring the current political debate in the picture. I have deliberately kept a distance from the Indian reality.

All the 10 ideologies mentioned in the book are of modern origin and are a global phenomenon. More than 500 years ago, there was nothing like nationalism.

Reddys book takes a historical approach to the 10 ideologies of nationalism, democracy, liberalism, capitalism, evolutionary socialism, revolutionary socialsim, feminism, environmentalism, nuclear pacifism and globalism. He also gives a thorough account of the four movements of Renaissance, humanism, reformation and scientific revolution.

Ideology is a compass which gives direction to people from different political backgrounds the rightist, leftist and centrist. If you are doing politics, you have to do the groundwork  check facts, make empirical reports. Therefore, ideology is a framework for reference, Reddy told Express in the interview.

He said his electoral defeat gave him the time to pen down the ideologies that have always been in his mind.

I have been an MLA and an MP and have always wanted to write. In a way my defeat gave me time to write.

With the erosion of ideologies, there is also an erosion of intellectual interest in politics. My job was to revive an ideological and intellectual interest in politics, he added.
Fayaz Wani By

Express News Service

SRINAGAR: Social activist and lawyer Talib Hussain, a key witness in the Kathua gang rape and murder case, has suffered head injuries after he was allegedly assaulted inside police lockup in Jammu and Kashmirs Samba district on Monday.

Talib had campaigned seeking justice for the Kathua minor who was raped and murdered in January. He was arrested recently after his sister-in-law accused him of raping her.

Lawyer Deepika Singh Rajawat told TNIE that Talibs aunt had gone to meet him in the lockup at the Samba police station in the afternoon. It was while she was leaving when she heard cries from inside the lockup, Rajawat said.

As she rushed inside the police station, she saw two men beating Talib. His aunt raised a hue and cry and policemen rushed there. She said instead of intervention, the policemen joined their colleagues in beating him, the lawyer said

Talib, according to his aunt, has suffered injuries, including on the head. Later, he was taken to a hospital.

A section of locals suspect foul play in the accusations against Talib and his arrest. Police had registered a domestic violence case against him on the complaint of his wife. But, the court directed the police not to act against him.

Later, senior advocate Indira Jaising tweeted that Talib was tortured in police custody.

Talib Hussain  who was arrested last week  has been tortured in Samba police station while on police remand, skull broken, rushed to hospital in Samba, he is a key witness in the Kathua gangrape-murder case, the senior advocate tweeted.

This is unacceptable in a democracy.
By PTI

PUNE: In view of the 'bandh' (shutdown) called by the Maratha organisations on August 9 over their reservation demand, police have decided to step up security in the district.

District Collector Naval Kishor Ram today held a meeting of over 50 members and conveners of Maratha Kranti Morcha (MKM), where District Superintendent of Police Sandip Patil was also present.

Talking about the security measures, Patil said that besides the existing police force, three additional State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) companies and one Rapid Action Force (RAF) team will be deployed to ensure that there is no law and order situation in the district.

"We have decided to deploy our 80 per cent police force towards the protest.

In addition to that, three SRPF companies and one RAF team will be deployed at sensitive places in the district," he said.

According to Patil, security will be enhanced on the main highways passing through the district as the protesters might try to block the roads.

Talking about the preventive action against the anti-social elements, Patil said some miscreants have been identified and they will be detained and kept out of the district.

"So far 50 people have been arrested in connection with the violence that erupted in Chakan," he said.

Ram said, "During the meeting, an appeal was made to the Maratha organisations to maintain peace and not to resort to the violence on August 9. I am happy that all the MKM members and its conveners were positive and assured co-operation."

The collector said he told the conveners of the MKM that the state government was taking all the necessary steps towards fulfilling the reservation demand.

"We appeal the youth from the community not to take any drastic step such as suicide," he said.

According to Ram, a decision on keeping schools and colleges shut on August 9 will be taken tomorrow.

Pravin Gaikwad, one of the conveners of the MKM fromthe citysaid they were travelling in the state and making an appeal to the members of the community to maintain peace during the protest and not to resort to any violence.

"All the community members have been asked to gather at their respective collectorate or tehsildar offices in their city from 10 am to 5 pm on August 9 to express the solidarity to the agitation," he said.

Members of the MKM will be holding a sit-in agitation outside the residence of NCP chief Sharad Pawar at Baramati (in Pune district) tomorrow, Gaikwad added.
By PTI

HYDERABAD: JD(U) president Nitish Kumar today reached out to Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, requesting the support of TRS for his party lawmaker and NDA candidate Harivansh Narayan Singh in the election to the post of Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha.

The Bihar chief minister rang up the Telangana Rashtra Samithi president this morning and made the request, according to Rao's office.

Rao told him he would discuss the issue with his party colleagues and take a final decision, it said.

Kumar's call comes as the NDA and the Opposition appeared to be heading for a showdown in the election.

The Opposition has given a clear indication that it will contest the August 9 election.

In the upper house, the BJP-led ruling alliance lacks a majority.

According to Opposition sources, Tiruchi Siva of DMK, Vandana Chavan of NCP and nominated member K T S Tulsi are front-runners for the post.

The support of regional parties such as the AIADMK, BJD, TRS and YSR Congress are crucial in the poll.

The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since June this year, following the retirement of P J Kurien, who had been elected to the upper house of Parliament on a Congress ticket from Kerala.

The current strength of Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in the full house.

The BJP is the largest party in the house with 73 members.

Its allies JD(U), Shiv Sena, Akali Dal have six, three and three members, respectively.

Besides the nominated and independent members affiliated to it, the BJP is banking on the support of 13, nine, six and two members of the AIADMK, BJD, TRS, YSR Congress respectively, its floor managers said.

If all four parties support the NDA candidate, then the numbers add up to 126.

However, if parties like BJD or TRS abstain from voting, then things will become more precarious for the ruling alliance.

Both these parties had abstained during a vote on the recent motion of no-confidence against the government in the Lok Sabha while the AIADMK had voted with the treasury benches.

The BJP is hoping to get support of four of the six independent members and three of the four nominated members.

The Congress has 50 members.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Ten months after its verdict, the Supreme Court today notified its guidelines for according 'senior' designation to lawyers and constituted a five-member permanent committee headed by Chief Justice of India to shortlist the candidates.

The names will then be sent to the Full Court, comprising all the apex court judges, for a decision.

The candidates will have to file an application or the committee can also recommend a candidate to the full court on its own, according to the guidelines.

The apex court has notified the norms in pursuant to its judgement on October 12, last year by which it had laid down guidelines for itself and 24 high courts to govern the exercise of designating lawyers as seniors.

The committee which will meet twice a year in January and July will have a permanent secretariat which would facilitate collating the details of the probable candidates.

The finalised guidelines are titled "Supreme Court Guidelines to regulate Conferment of Designation of Senior Advocates, 2018".

Besides the Chief Justice of India as Chairperson, the permanent committee will have two senior-most judges of the apex court, the Attorney General as members and a member of the Bar as nominated by the Chairperson and other members.

The committee can suo motu recommend a lawyer's name for designation as senior as well as interested advocates can also submit their application for the designation.

The guidelines said that all the names cleared by the permanent committee will be forwarded to the full court and the full court will not resort to voting by secret ballot unless it is unavoidable.

"If the Chief Justice or any other judge is of the opinion that an advocate by virtue of his standing at the Bar or special knowledge or experience in law is deserving of such distinction, the Chief Justice/ judge may, in writing, recommend the name of such advocate for being considered for designation as Senior Advocate," the notification read.

It said that an advocate-on-record or advocate seeking conferment o senior gown will have to submit an application in the prescribed format to the Secretariat.

The notification says that every year, in the month of January and July, the Secretariat will invite such applications and at least 15 days time shall be given to file the applications.

On receipt of applications from advocates, advocates-on-record or suo-motu application by CJI or any Supreme Court judge, the Secretariat will compile the relevant data including integrity, reputation, conduct, participation in pro-bono work, judgments in which the concerned candidate appeared etc, the notification said.

It also said that a lawyer shall not be eligible for designation as Senior Advocate unless he or she has 10 years combined standing as an advocate or a District and Sessions Judge or as a judicial member of any tribunal in India or has been a Chief Justice or a judge of a High Court.

The Secretariat will also publish the proposal for designation of the candidate on the Supreme Court website inviting suggestions from stakeholders.

The Committee will interact with advocates and make an overall assessment and list the names cleared by it to go to the full court.

The notification made it clear that the names of the judges and Chief Justices of high court will go directly to the full court for consideration.

The final decision of the Full Court will be communicated individually to the applicants.

In case of any misconduct, the full court "may review its decision to designate the person and may recall the same", the notification said.

The person concerned will be given an opportunity to be heard before any action is taken in this regard, it added.
Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday recommended a CBI probe into the Deoria shelter home case.The CM announced that a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) under ADG Gorakhpur will probe the case to ensure that there is no tampering of evidence.

Addressing a Press conference on late Tuesday night after receiving a preliminary spot report from the two-member high powered panel, comprising Additional Chief Secretary Renuka Kumar and ADG Anju Gupta, the CM said that the role of the district police in the unfortunate incident would also be probed.

He added that inaction of the district police after an FIR was lodged in the case on July 30, 2018 was questionable. The failure of the police administration to act promptly against the NGO and their slackness called for a probe and a strict action thereafter, he said.

Notably, the role of district cops who kept on sending the rescued girls and women to the shelter home despite knowing its illegal status and cancellation of its licence in June, 2017, has raised eyebrows.

Expressing his annoyance and sadness over the episode and assuring of strictest action against the guilty, the CM said that all the rescued inmates were being shifted to a shelter home in Varanasi.

Taking a tough stand, CM Yogi claimed that the state government had cancelled the licence of the NGO running the shelter home in June, 2017.

He added that despite repeated reminders to the DM concerned, no action was taken against the shelter home and it was allowed to operate illegally without valid papers.

Consequently, the state government is sending a chargesheet to the then DM Sujit Kumar, he said.

He maintained that other officials, including a former District Probation Officer was suspended with immediate effect and departmental proceedings were initiated against others for their laxity.

They all will be charge-sheeted by the state government in the matter, said the CM.
Gyanaranjan Swain By

Electoral studies in Odisha has many interesting facets. Since the first general election, the state has not toed the national pattern of voting. With general elections around the corner, there is a great likelihood of the state throwing up big surprises in the upcoming polls.

While at the Centre, the BJP is not sure of a comprehensive win, the ruling BJD in Odisha may face an uphill task due to many reasons. After the Panchayat elections, it was clear the BJP is a rising force replacing the Congress as the main opposition party. The upcoming polls will be crucial for the BJD. The party, for the first time, has consciously used the image of a smiling Naveen Patnaik to garner votes. The BJD has no doubt done this to counter the big hoardings of the PM and some ministers from Odisha at the Centre. But the message is clear: there is a challenge to CM Naveen this time. Further, the BJD sorely lacks a second line of leadership.

The popular perception is that the BJD will have an upper hand in the upcoming polls. But ground reports suggest it would find it difficult to maintain the same level of popularity it enjoyed in the last general election. People are looking for alternatives and it all depends on how the BJP and Congress can cash in on the popular sentiment for an alternative.

First, contrary to perception, the governments performance in important sectors like education and health is lacklustre. Though school dropout rates have decreased substantially over the last 10 years, the performance of state-funded schools is discouraging. In the last two years, 828 government schools have been closed mostly due to low student enrolment. Most of these are located in tribal areas. According to the governments own admission, there are 8,547 primary and upper primary schools with a student strength of 25 or less.

It suggests that while the mid-day meal scheme has improved the school dropout ratio, the perception about government schools has not changed. Poor infrastructure and non-availability of teachers have made it worse. The state of higher education in Odisha is also bad. Half of the faculty positions in universities are vacant. The governments lack of clarity on rules has further complicated the situation. It is not prepared to accept UGC rules as paramount and this results in court cases. Even in colleges, many categories exist; one does not know which rule will be applied to whom. The government has no vision for Odishas education.

Similarly, in healthcare, the government has given importance to peripheral factors like insurance schemes. Instead of providing doctors to hospitals in remote areas, it has indirectly promoted private healthcare institutions by providing insurance of `5 lakh to over 3.5 crore people. So it is withdrawing itself from the core areas of governance. The government recently announced it would set up 20 hospitals in PPP mode in 11 districts.

This shows its reluctance to use public money for the health sector. It recently announced an insurance scheme for journalists. One can guess the reason behind the benevolent step. The budget every year gives very low priority to education and health. Instead of addressing structural issues like infrastructure, quality teachers and doctors, the government is busy promoting education and health entrepreneurs.

Corruption has become rampant; many ministers and MLAs are allegedly involved in scams. Earlier, the CM was quick to take action against corrupt officials. But of late, it has been slow and at times, even no action is taken. The likely reason: Naveens grip over the party has substantially reduced. So he is not able to take actions as he used to earlier.

Recently, the BJD decided to abstain from voting in the no-trust motion against the NDA government at the Centre. There are two theories to explain the BJDs peculiar position. One, it is apprehensive of central institutions like the CBI and does not want to anger the Centre too much. Two, this ambiguity helps it maintain its supremacy in Odisha. Sometimes, it is opposed to the Congress, sometimes the BJP. But in the long run, this is not going to help the party. If the BJD wants to stay as a powerful regional party, it has to evolve its own ideological framework. Right now it seems the BJD is only interested in retaining power in the state even at the cost of compromising on national issues.

All said and done, the question is whether people have credible alternatives. The answer is not a simple yes or no. The Congress is fighting to save its own house. Not long ago there was an intense internal struggle over the PCC chiefs post. After the panchayat polls, many thought the BJP might emerge as an alternative. But the future political narrative depends on three things that need to be quickly addressed.

First, the core areas of governance cannot be neglected. Freebies give an electoral benefit in the short run, but have their saturation point.

There are enough reasons to believe Odisha has reached this point. Second, a credible and honest political leadership must emerge as an alternative. Right now, it is not the case with both the BJP and Congress. In BJP circles, the name of a top union minister is being discussed. But his popularity in Odisha is yet to be tested. Similarly, the PCC chief, known for his association with the powerful mining lobby, is yet to get down to the task of galvanising the state unit. Third, the political leadership in Odisha requires fresh minds.

Powerful old leaders have voiced their concerns over younger entrants. But there is a growing number of youth in politics. Political parties have to respect the aspirations of the youth; else they have the potential to cause considerable damage to their own parties.

Mass political leadership is one area where the BJD is way ahead. Naveens image still appeals to voters. Both the Congress and BJP offer no alternative political leadership with wide mass contact. The BJP is trying hard to push some leaders. Time will tell how popular they are. It is clear there are opportunities galore for the existence of an alternative political narrative in Odisha. But it remains to be seen how the opposition parties seize this chance.

Gyanaranjan Swain

Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Ravenshaw University

Email: gyanaranjanswain@gmail.com
A Satish By

Express News Service

PALAKKAD: Studies have begun at the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Cell at the Kerala Agriculture University (KAU), Mannuthy, to present the case of Attukombu Amara (Lablab Bean) and Attappadi Thuvara (red gram/pigeon pea) for the Geographical Indication tag.Since there arent much area of millet cultivation in Kerala, we propose to compare the origin and specialities of the Attukombu Amara and Attappadi Thuvara with similar varieties in the neighbouring states. There is no need to go into molecular techniques like gene mapping as the specific features of the crop produce attached to the regions topography will suffice, said KAU IPR cell professor and co-ordinator C R Elsy.

The expert committee constituted for the long procedure requiring legal application will seek a host of clarifications, according to Elsy. She pointed out the last GI tag secured by the KAU was for the Nilambur teak in December, 2017. Currently, the application for Marayur jaggerys GI status is before the expert committee.

It was when 31 tribal infants died in Attappadi in 2013, compared to the state average of 12 infants, that the government woke up to the reality. It was found the tribals no longer cultivated their traditional crops like millets, cereals and pulses which are rich in minerals like copper, manganese, iron and magnesium, said Attappadi tribal health nodal officer R Prabhudas.The Agriculture Department has cultivated millets in 225 hectares, pulses in 150 hectares, vegetables in 50 hectares and oilseeds (groundnut) in 60 hectares, totalling 485 hectares in 40 hamlets benefiting 1,605 tribals. This is the second year of cultivation and the funding is done by the Scheduled Tribe Development Department. This year we plan to procure 25 tonnes of millets, compared to last year when it was only 3 tonnes, mainly due to drought, said millet village special officer B Suresh.

Weve signed an MoU with the Indian Institute of Millet Research, Hyderabad for providing training to farmers and also value addition. We plan to form farmer producers organisations which will be registered under the Companies Act. Moreover, the cultivation, which will be organic, is being done scientifically so that it could be certified by APEDA, New Delhi. Indocert , Aluva has been entrusted with the task of monitoring the process and itll take three years to achieve the certification, added Suresh, who is also the Deputy Director of Agriculture.
Ajay Kanth and Toby Antony By

Express News Service

KOCHI: Confirming security agencies belief that Kerala has become safe haven for terrorist elements, National Investigation Agency (NIA) on August 3 nabbed Mustafizur Rahman, 35, of Birbhum Village, and Abdul Karim of Murshidabad of West Bengal, who were posing as migrant labourers, from Kottakkal in Malappuram. They are the prime accused in a blast and IED planting case at Bodhgaya in Bihar on January 20, 2018 and allegedly belong to Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB).

NIA sources told Express Mustafizur has been staying with a group of migrant labourers in Kottakkal doing various jobs. Though NIA was on the tail of the suspects involved in the crime, terrorists plan to hole up in Kerala as migrant labourers got exposed when intelligence agencies traced certain leads through a coordinated effort.The incident has come a shocker to Kerala Police as central intelligence agency suspects Mustafizur planned and executed the operation while staying in Kerala.

It was only three months ago that Mustafizur brought Abdul Karim to Kottakkal. According to NIA sources, the duo were working in small industrial units located in Kottakkal. After recording their arrest, both were produced before NIA Judge M Nandakumar at his residence in Kochi on Saturday night and were taken to Patna by flight on Sunday.

State Police Chief Loknath Behera confirmed the arrest and said it was made possible because of the timely sharing of intelligence.Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh is a banned terror outfit both in India and Bangladesh. NIA said the JMB had planted explosives at Mahabodhi temple in Bodh Gaya to avenge the atrocities against Rohingyas in Myanmar.

To trigger a blast

The plot was to trigger a blast when the Dalai Lama was visiting the Buddhist shrine. Intelligence agencies suspect the involvement of more Bangladesh natives in the case

Police on the chase

Intelligence agencies and Kerala Police have been busting sleeper modules of extremist groups over the past couple of years.

Given the rising influx of labourers from other states, the challenge for the police to track down criminals among them has increased manifold.

State police chief Loknath Behera said they have been coordinating with other agencies to keep tabs on their movement

Top Maoist leaders, including Beecha Suguna and Malla Raji Reddy, were nabbed from Kerala over the past few years
By Express News Service

BENGALURU: A suspected terrorist of Jamat-ul-Mujahidin Bangladesh (JMB), who purportedly supplied Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), has been detained by the sleuths of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) from Ramanagara district on Sunday evening.

It is said that the suspect is allegedly involved in Burdwan blast in West Bengal in 2014 and planting of explosives at Bodh Gaya in Bihar in January early this year.

Muneer Sheikh, aged around 25 years, who was living in a rented house at Trup Lane Road in Ramanagara, is the suspect, who is being interrogated by the NIA officials. It is learnt that Sheikh was in possession of gelatin powder and other material used in preparing IEDs and sketches of some important places including historical temples. They have been seized along with several mobile phones and a tab.

Sources in the Ramanagara police said a team of NIA officials along with the Internal Security Division (ISD) staff arrived on Sunday night in Ramanagara.

They asked for support from the local police and raided a house located on Trup Lane Road. They detained Muneer, searched the entire houses and seized some articles and left for Bengaluru, an official said.

A senior official in the ISD said that the NIA picked up Muneer based on a specific information. They have picked him up for questioning in connection with the Burdwan blast in West Bengal in 2014 and planting of explosives at Bodh Gaya in Bihar in January early this year. We are just assisting them in the investigation and they are yet to formalise his arrest. He has been living at various places in Karnataka since 2014, the official said.

Muneer was being questioned by the NIA senior officials who had arrived from Hyderabad till late evening on Monday, at an undisclosed location near Madiwala.

The NIA has also arrested Abdul Karim alias Chhota and Mustafizur Rehman alias Shaheen, both residents of West Bengal, on Sunday evening, from Malappuram in Kerala in connection with the planting of IED at Bodh Gaya complex on January 19.

It is not yet known whether Muneer hailed from West Bengal or Bangladesh.

Rafiq Khan, son of Amir Khan who had rented out a house to Muneer, told reporters that Muneer was staying in the rented house from the last two months along with his wife and two children. He went on bicycle selling sarees. He left home at 9 am and returned by 5.30 in the evening. We never suspected his behaviour and dont know why the police have picked him up.

We had asked for Rs. 50,000 as advance and Rs. 5,000 rent. As he had not paid the advance amount fully, we had not entered into an agreement. He had given a copy of his Aadhaar card for the agreement, but had taken it from us a week ago saying he had to book a train ticket, Khan added.
By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The 24-hour motor vehicle strike by the All India Motor Transport Organisation begins in the state from Monday midnight. The strike was called in protest against the proposed amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act. Private buses, auto rickshaws, and taxis are staying off the road from midnight. Trade unions except BMS are taking part in the strike.

Automobile showrooms, automobile spare parts shops and driving school owners and staff are also participating in the strike. Since the KSRTC Joint Trade Union Committee is also observing a 24-hour strike raising various demands, normal life expected to be thrown out of gear on Tuesday

ALSO READ: All-India motor vehicle strike against proposed MV amendment tomorrow

KSRTC employees to hold token strike

KSRTC employees will organise a token strike on Tuesday along with the motor vehicle strike. The decision was taken after talks between the corporation employees' joint union committee and CMD Tomin Thachankary on Monday failed to reach a consensus on various issues.

The employees will go on an indefinite strike if our demands are not met, said INTUC general secretary R Sasidharan. "The CMD has rejected all the 17 demands put forth before the management. With Onam around the corner, more strikes can be expected," he said.
By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The CPM state leadership has come down heavily on the BJP for the alleged political murder of CPM worker Aboobaker Siddique in Uppala. Even as the BJP wants to play down the first political murder after PS Sreedharan Pillai took over as BJP state chief, the CPM is determined to keep the issue alive. In a statement issued here on Monday, CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan alleged that the murder had brought out the unholy nexus between the saffron party and mafia gangs.

READ | CPM worker stabbed to death in Kasargod; BJP worker in custody

The BJP has found itself isolated from the people and hence is resorting to such violence to divert public attention, he said. He said the ripples of Abhimanyu murder  the SFI worker who was killed by SDPI activists  were still being felt in the state.The SDPI and the RSS are trying to create unrest in the state. Aboobaker Siddique is the 17th CPM worker to be killed by BJP-RSS after the Left Government came to power, Kodiyeri said.

The CPM state leadership urged the people to raise a strong protest against the murder and urged the state government to bring the culprits before the law. BJP-led criminal gangs are active along the Kerala-Karnataka border, especially in places like Manjeswaram, said LDF convener A Vijayaraghavan. Many such criminal gangs are active in this region. This murder can only be viewed as a continuation of political murders by the BJP-led gangs in the region.

The Democratic Youth Front, the youth wing of the CPM, recorded strong protest against the murder. The DYFI had made strong intervention against the drug mafia. The murder was part of taking revenge, the state secretariat said in a statement.It was the RSS criminal gang that murdered the DYFI unit member. A gang led by a Sangh Parivar worker, whos also the son-in-law of a prominent BJP district leader, is behind the murder, it said.
By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Stating that violence has no place in the Constitution, President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday underlined the need for Kerala to take urgent measures to curb political violence.

Inaugurating the Festival on Democracy organised by the Kerala Legislative Assembly to mark its diamond jubilee celebrations, the President said Keralas social framework has encouraged debate and dialogue. The history of debate, mutual dignity and respect for another persons point of view has been a hallmark of Kerala society. Nevertheless, there remains the paradox of political violence in Kerala, especially in some regions of the state, the President said.

Such tendencies were unfortunate and did little justice to the glorious traditions of the state and its people, he said. It is important for all political groups and all enlightened citizens to do their utmost to curb the development of such tendencies. Debate, dissent and disagreement are perfectly acceptable and should be welcomed in our polity. But violence has no place in our Constitution, he said.

2 BJP workers nabbed

Kasargod: Aboobaker Siddique was stabbed to death, allegedly by BJP-RSS workers, when he questioned their public drinking at Sonkal near Uppala here. DySP M V Sukumaran said two persons  Ashwanth, 36, alias Aachu, and Karthik, 30, of Shantigiri near Kumbla  were arrested.

CPM lashes out

TPuram: The CPM state leadership has come down heavily on the BJP for Aboobaker Siddiques murder. The CPM is keen to keep the issue alive.
Express News Service

KOCHI: At least three fishermen were killed and nine persons went missing as an unknown vessel rammed a fishing boat off Kochi coast around 3.30 am on Tuesday. According to Fisheries Deputy Director S Mahesh, there were 14 workers on board Oceanic, a fishing boat which was completely damaged in the midsea collision. Among the workers 11 people were natives of Tamil Nadu, two were from West Bengal and one from Kerala.

The dead persons have been identified as Yuvanathan (45), Manakkudy (50) and Yacob (57) -- all natives of Ramanthurai, Tamil Nadu. The bodies of the three people were brought to Munambam Harbour.

Two grievously injured persons -- Naren Sarkar (20) a native of Bengal and Edwin (29), a native of Colachel, Tamil Nadu -- were brought to shore in a rescue boat and they are now under treatment at the General Hospital, Ernakulam.

The incident occurred around 23 nautical miles off Nattika coast. The boat had ventured into the sea from Munambam fishing harbour on Monday. According to sources the workers were resting in the boat after fishing when the ship rammed the boat.



Injured fishermen admitted in North Paravur taluk hospital for treatment. ( Photo | A Sanesh / EPS)

Sivan, the owner of the fishing boat and a native of Munambam, told 'Express' that there were a total of 14 workers on the boat. He said the fishing boat overturned in the mishap and the workers may have got trapped under the boat, leading to the death of three fishermen.

SHIP IDENTIFIED

The Coast Guard has launched a search for the vessel. From the available inputs, the merchant vessel involved in the collision appears to be MD Desh Shakti, an Indian registration vessel, officers said. "However, the matter would have to be confirmed for which interrogation will be carried out by the Dornier aircraft on radio network and information passed to DG Shipping," one officer said.

NAVY IN ACTION

Meanwhile, the Indian Navy has diverted a Sea King helicopter, which was already in air, to proceed to the area for search and rescue of survivors. One Dornier aircraft has also been launched for the searching the entire area. In addition another Dornier aircraft is getting airborne to investigate the merchant ships which were in the area at the time of the collision. INS January is also proceeding to the area for search and rescue of the missing personnel, a Navy spokesman said.

One ALH helicopter is standing by to be launched later as the situation develops.

RISE IN MIDSEA COLLISIONS

There has been a spurt in midsea collisions off Kochi coast recently which has panicked the coastal populace. Though the fishermen have urged the government to ensure their safety at sea, there have been no steps in this regard.

Two fishermen had suffered injuries after a cargo ship rammed a fishing boat 47 km off Kochi coast around 4.20 am on June 7. The ship sped away without caring for the fishermen in the boat which was partially damaged in the collision. The Mercantile Marine Department identified the ship as a Palau-flagged vessel, which was on its way to Alang in Gujarat for scrapping.

A Thailand registered merchant vessel Mayuree Naree hit a fishing boat off Kochi coast early on July 8 and sailed away, in yet another mid-sea hit and run case.

A Panama registered bulk carrier MV Amber L collided with a fishing boat off Kochi coast claiming the lives of three fishermen off Kochi coast in June 2017.

On February 15, 2012, two fishermen were shot dead by Italian Maries on board Italian vessel Enrica Lexie. M V Prabhu Daya, a cargo ship carrying iron ore from Goa to aChinese port rammed a fishing boat off Alappuzha coast killing five fishermen in 2012. Two persons were injured in the incident.

Here are the accidents in mid-sea in last two years:

2017 January: Seven injured after a ship collided with a fishing boat 65 nm off Kochi

2017 June: Three dead, 11 injured when Panama-flagged merchant vessel Amber L hit a fishing boat Carmel Matha 14 nautical miles off Kochi coast

2017 August: A Hong Kong-flagged ship collided with a fishing boat Arockia Annai, 39 nm off Kollam coast

2017 October: Unidentified ship rammed a fishing vessel, 19 nm off Colachel

2017 October: Unidentified merchant ship rammed fishing boat Immanuel, 50 nm off Beypore

2018 January: Unidentified ship hit fishing vessel Nelson off Kanyakumari coast

2018 June: Two injured as a Palau-flagged cargo ships rams into a fishing boat 47 km off Kochi

2018 August: Three dead and 11 missing as an unknown vessel hits a fishing boat 23 nautical miles off Natika coast near Kochi
By Express News Service

NEW DELHI/KENDRAPARA: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested a terrorist handler for Pakistani-based Lashkar-e-Taiba group from New Delhis Indira Gandhi International Airport. The arrested, Habibur Rahaman alias Habib, belonging to Kendrapara district of Odisha, was nabbed by the anti-terror agency on his arrival from Saudi Arabia on Sunday.

According to the agency, Habib was one of the handlers of LeT terrorist Shaikh Abdul Naeem alias Nomi, who was initially arrested in 2007 while trying to infiltrate two Pakistani and one Kashmiri terrorist into India through Bangladesh. In August 2014, Naeem managed to escape from custody while being taken to a court in Maharashtra from Kolkata, and again got engaged in terror operations for the next three years.

On the direction of his handlers in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, Naeems task was to identify locations in India where terrorist attacks could be carried out. Habib was responsible for arranging hideouts and funds for him on the directions of the Pakistan-based LeT commander Amjad alias Rehan. A well established conspiracy was hatched by the accused for targeting vulnerable locations in India with intent of causing maximum damage, the agency said in a statement. When Naeem was arrested by the NIA in November 2017, he was charge-sheeted along with 10 other co-accused including Habibur Rehman, a spokesperson said and added that the latter would be produced in Patiala House court to seek NIA custody for his interrogation.

Meanwhile, Sub-Divisional Police Officer, Kendrapara, Rajiv Lochana Panda said they were yet to trace the address and family of Habibur.

In 2016, police had arrested Abdul Rehman of Paschimkachha village in Kendrapara district for his alleged links with Al Qaeda. The Crime Branch also probed the link of Rehman with some madrasas as he was a student of Jamia Ashraful Uloom madrasa of Goudagopa locality in Kendrapara town from 1990 to 1995.
C Shivakumar and Sinduja Jane By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu is bottom-placed just above the northeastern states of Nagaland and Meghalaya besides Uttar Pradesh when it comes to breastfeeding of babies in 0-6 months, according to a report by the National Health and Family Survey.

The report states that Tamil Nadu has a breastfeeding rate of only 48.3 pc when compared with states like Chhatisgarh (77.2 pc), Manipur (73.6 pc) and Dadar and Nagar Havelli (72.7 pc).

ALSO READ: Crying need for breastfeeding centres in India!

Unlike Chattisgarh, Manipur, Nagar and Havelli, there is large women working force in Tamil Nadu. Also, there are more women from poorer or lower economic strata who go for work in Tamil Nadu. Also the private organised sector sanctions maternity leave for only three months. But, when you take the unorganised sector, they hardly get any leave for nursing mothers. These problems have to be addressed, said Dr J Kumutha, expert advisor for child health, Tamil Nadu.

But when it comes to raising awareness of breastfeeding, Tamil Nadu is doing a good job. Maternal benefits for nursing mothers working in private sector, organised and unorganised should be improved, Dr Kumutha added.

Dr Arun Gupta, member, Prime Ministers Council on Indias Nutrition Challenges and regional coordinator of International Breast Feeding Action Network (IBFAN) Asia, one of the members of the Global Breastfeeding Collective formed by Unicef and World Health Organisation, said that the issue is due to lack of maternity leave for women in the formal sector.

ALSO READ: Survey: 70% indian women find breastfeeding a challenge

Although the government has brought the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act 2017 which increases womens leave entitlement from 12 weeks to 26 weeks in the formal sector in any form of employment, whether private or government sector, it is not enough for women as many of them are poor and could not afford right intake of nutrition food, says Gupta.

Gupta says that he has mooted a monthly contribution of Rs 5,000 for mothers for the first six months so that they could eat healthy and breastfeed their babies or else they would prefer baby foods and deny breast milk to babies.

Interestingly, Gupta will be launching the report titled Arrested Development, the Fifth Report of Assessment of Indias Policy and Programmes on Breastfeeding and Infant and Young Child Feeding 2018 on Tuesday, highlighting the policy issues which have resulted in mothers preferring milk powder and other substitutes for breast milk. According to the available scientific evidence, globally breastfeeding could save lives of more than 8,20,000 children and 20,000 women annually. It can also save more than $300 billion for nations every year.

READ HERE: World Breastfeeding Week: Breast milk is baby's first vaccine

The analysis of the Global Breastfeeding Collective 2017 notes that for India despite a reported 55 per cent exclusive breastfeeding rate in children below the age of six months, the large population in India and high under five mortality means that an estimated 99,499 children die each year as a result of diarrhea and pneumonia that could have been prevented through early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.

Factfile
By Online Desk

DMK chief M Karunanidhi, one of the foremost Dravidian politicians in modern times, died here today, after waging a grim battle for life aged 94, the hospital where he was admitted for the last 11 days said.

One of the most charismatic figures of Tamil Nadu politics whose public life spanned over seven decades, is survived by two wives and six children, including DMK working president and heir apparent M K Stalin and daughter Kanimozhi, a Rajya Sabha MP.

What set him apart from the other youngsters drawn by Dravidian ideals was aggression, wit, and rare courage  all displayed during his opposition to the Emergency as a Chief Minister. With no family background in politics or wealth or support of any dominant caste-group, he rose from being an ordinary member of DMK in 1949 to its president in just 20 years in 1969. That he managed to surpass many other giants who dotted the initial phase of the Dravidian movement can be explained only by his clever manoeuvring, his public oratory skills and his command over the Tamil language.

Also Read: When Kalaignar M Karunanidhi bid adieu to his black glasses after 46 years

He soon became close to both CN Annadurai and Periyar, who were mainly attracted by Karunanidhi's style of writing. His excellence as a film scriptwriter  by 1950s he was among the most sought after in the business  helped gain him and his ideals some mileage. He made a place for himself through vehement protests and an ability to raise funds for the party.

When Annadurai broke away from Dravida Kazhagam (DK) and formed DMK in 1949, Karunanidhi moved to DMK and played an integral role in strengthening the party. He contested his first election in 1957 from Kulithalai constituency and since then it was no looking back as he went on to become the undisputed king. The DMK heavyweight went on to win 13 consecutive elections convincingly.

Here is the list of the elections the DMK chief had contested in the last 60 years.

Sl No Winner Party Votes Constituency Year Runner-up Party Votes Victory Margin 1 M Karunanidhi IND 22785 Kulithalai 1957 K.A. Dharmalingam Congress 14489 8296 2 M Karunanidhi DMK 32145 Thanjavur 1962 A.Y.S. Parisutha Nadar Congress 30217 2828 3 M Karunanidhi DMK 53401 Chepauk 1967 S. G. Vinayagamurthi Congress 32919 20482 4 M Karunanidhi DMK 63334 Chepauk 1971 N Kamalingam NCO 50823 12511 5 M Karunanidhi DMK 43076 Anna Nagar 1977 G. Krishnamurthy ADK 26638 16438 6 M Karunanidhi DMK 51290 Anna Nagar 1980 Hande H.V ADK 50591 699 7 M Karunanidhi DMK 41632 Harbour 1989 K.A. Wahab MUL 9641 31991 8 M Karunanidhi DMK 30932 Harbour 1991 Suppu K. INC 30042 890 9 M Karunanidhi DMK 46097 Chepauk 1996 N.S.S.Nellai Kannan INC 10313 35784 10 M Karunanidhi DMK 29836 Chepauk 2001 Damodharan R INC 25002 4834 11 M Karunanidhi DMK 34188 Chepauk 2006 Dawoon Miakhan IND 25662 8526 12 M Karunanidhi DMK 109014 Tiruvarur 2011 Rajendran. M AIADMK 58765 50249 13 M Karunanidhi DMK 121473 Tiruvarur 2016 R Pannerselvam AIADMK 53107 68366

(With inputs from ENS and PTI)
Express News Service

CHENNAI: In 1936, a 12-year-old boy barged into the office of the headmaster of the Tiruvarur high school. Who are you? What do you want? the headmaster, Kasturi Iyengar, asked as he rose from his seat. In the next few minutes, the boy convinced Iyer to admit him to Class V at the school even though seats had already been filled. He threatened suicide and pleaded he wouldnt be able to face anyone in his village of Thirukkuvalai, if he failed to gain admission. Muthuvel Karunanidhi, five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu, 13-time MLA and 10-time president of the DMK, recounted how he had won perhaps his first battle with society at that tender age in his autobiography *Nenjukku Neethi* (Justice to the heart).

It was this spirit that Karunanidhi displayed in his 94 years of life, right until his last breath. It is this spirit that lakhs of supporters counted on as they braved the elements and kept vigil, some outside the Kauvery Hospital in Alwarpet where he died on Tuesday, others at party offices, street corners and even temples, praying that the life-long atheist would live to fight another day. Indeed, as he battled age-related illnesses from September 2016, the former chief minister had surprised many, time and again, even after he became mostly confined to his Gopalapuram residence.

ALSO READ: M Karunanidhi's agitations and stance against various issues

Born to Ayyathurai Muthuvel, a farmer, and Anjugam on June 3, 1924 in Thirukkuvalai, Nagapattinam district, Karunandhis demise will not be seen as the death of an individual but as an end of an era. So closely was his life was intertwined with Tamil Nadus fortunes that his story is almost a pale reflection of the States. Karunanidhi would study only for three years in the school at which he had fought so hard to gain admission but the lesson of Panagal Arasar (Raja of Panagal, as Raja Sir Panaganti Ramarayaningar was referred), learnt in Class V was one he never forgot. The Raja was a founding-leader of the Justice Party which was formed on the anti-Brahminical plank by leaders disgruntled at the domination of Brahmins in the Congress. It served as a precursor to the Dravida Kazhagam, founded by Periyar E V Ramasamy, and its political off-shoots, the DMK and AIADMK.

A public speech by Pattukotai Azhagiri, a frontline leader of the DK, attracted the young Karunanidhi and inspired him to start a manuscript magazine named Manava Nesan. By 14, he was leading a student rally through the streets of Thiruvarur against the imposition of Hindi. In 1942, just 18, he launched a magazine 'Murasoli' as a pamphlet. It later became a daily and still serves as the DMK's party newspaper. A year later, he joined Kudiyarasu, a weekly magazine published by Periyar, as a sub-editor.

ALSO READ: Life and family of DMK supremo Kalaignar M Karunanidhi

It was his felicity with language that helped him gain the spotlight in his initial years. His writings in Tamil attracted the attention of both Periyar and CN Annadurai, the doyens of the Dravidian movement. Karunanidhi was 25 when Annadurai launched the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam in 1949, after splitting from the DK over a variety of differences. His literary skills were extremely significant to the party and the movement, first as a playwright and later as a film script writer. By the 1950s, he was among the most sought-after in the film industry business, his seminal work in Parasakthi (1952, starring Sivaji Ganesan) arguably laying out the ideology of the Dravidian movement. His command over Tamil soon found him a place in the propaganda wing of the DMK. His leadership at the Kallakudi protest in 1953, and subsequent imprisonment, made him among those the party could not afford to ignore when it contested the 1957 assembly election.

Karunanidhi was one of the 15 DMK MLAs who won in the 1957 elections. By 1960, he was treasurer of the party and the third most important person in the DMK. In the 1962 assembly polls, he was the only one of the 15 DMK MLAs to be returned to the House, with even Anna losing his seat. As the senior MLA for his party, Karunanidhi's seemed almost invincible (he has never personally lost an election). When the party finally tasted power in 1967 with an overwhelming majority, party leader Annadurai credited Karunanidhi's fundraising to meet election expenses. Karunanidhi had overshot Annas `10 lakh target to collect `11 lakh, leading Anna to refer to him as "Thiruvalar 11 latcham" (Mr 11 lakhs) when he introduced his as a candidate in the election. Karunanidhi was made Public Works Minister, a key portfolio that made him the third most powerful man in Annadurai's cabinet.

ALSO READ: When Kalaignar M Karunanidhi bid adieu to his black glasses after 46 years

After Annadurai's death in 1969, V R Nedunchezhiyan, who was the number two in the party and government, had to give way to the much younger Karunanidhi, who had worked to gain the overwhelming support of cadres and general body members, including the actor-turned politician M G Ramachandran. Thus, without any family background in politics or wealth or support of any dominant caste group, Karunanidhi rose from being an ordinary member of DMK in 1949 to becoming its president and the state's Chief Minister in just 20 years in 1969 through wit and clever maneuvering. But what made Karunanidhi most remarkable was his success in retaining control over the party over the next five decades, including through the years in which the DMK lost consecutive elections when Karunanidhis dear friend-turned-bete noire MGR held office. MGR remained an insurmountable force until his demise in 1987.

How can one explain the sway of such a man? He did not enjoy the charismatic image that MGR earned through his filmstardom. Karunanidhi was left to wield only realpolitik. Under Karunanidhis leadership, the party registered a resounding victim in 1971 winning 184 out of 203 seats and effectively decimating Congress in the State. It was this regime which reveals the blueprint of Karunanidhi's political approach. When MGR, after his expulsion from the party, formed the rival Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Karunanidhi attempted to promote his eldest son M K Muthu, born to his first wife Padmavathi (by then deceased), to counter the filmstar. Muthu acted in a few films imitating MGR's gestures. The experiment failed miserably; MGR could not be replicated. Muthu was the first of member of his family that Karunanidhi would actively project as the party's face.

READ HERE: The scriptwriter who shaped political landscape of Tamil Nadu

This term also saw allegations of graft against Karunanidhi with the Sarkaria commission indicting him of corruption in the Veeranam project. However, what also stood out was his courage in opposing the Emergency, against Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Indira Gandhi finally dismissed his government in 1976, citing corruption charges. In the subsequent 1977, the electorate gave a resounding victory to MGR and his ADMK. Interestingly, Karunanidhi joined hands with Indira Gandhi again in 1980 and made his ally at the Centre dismiss MGR's government. Despite his beliefs in the rights of the states, realpolitik came first. Unfortunately, for the DMK, the ADMK-led alliance improved its tally to 162, 18 more seats than in 1977, and returned to power.

Meanwhile, Karunanidhi, working hard to keep the party together, started promoting another son, M K Stalin, who had gained prominence in 1975 when he was imprisoned during the Emergency. The DMK finally returned to power in 1989, but the government was dismissed in 1991, months before the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi in Sriperumbudur near Chennai.

It was only in 1996 that he could again enjoy a full five-year-term as Chief Minister. In the post-liberalisation era, the State, under his rule, witnessed witnessed massive industrial growth and the face of Chennai's southern suburbs changed. The State became a significant economic hub. For, the first time highways in the State were built on a Built-Operate-Transfer basis and infrastructure projects were implemented at speed unimaginable until then. The State also got its first IT park  TIDEL Park. It also became clear that Stalin would be Karunanidhi's political heir, with the former being elected as Mayor of Chennai. Still, in 2001, his party was defeated by the J Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK. The Jayalalithaa government slapped corruption cases against Karunanidhi, who was subjected to a dramatic midnight arrest.

READ HERE: Instances when late DMK chief Karunanidhi played hide n seek over his retirement from active politics

For the 2006, the DMKs election manifesto that promised free TVs and rice at Rs 1/Kg, became a trend-setter, luring voters and burdening the exchequer. Soon, promises of the manifesto were replicated by his rivals and other regional parties too. Karunanidhi reached the peak of his influence when his party became an important player in the Congress-led UPA government from 2004 to 2014. Though his party bagged key ministries at the Centre, he managed not to share the State government with Congress. But it was at the peak of his influence that he faced his most severe challenges. The rise of many family members in the party hurt the DMKs image. Dayanidhi Maran, older son M K Alagiri and daughter M K Kanimozhi hogged the limelight. His party leaders were embroiled in corruption charges, most notably his protege A Raja in the 2G spectrum scam. Kanimozhi had to spend six months in jail and her all-powerful father could do little to help. A trial court subsequently acquitted Kanimozhi and all others named by CBI in the scam and an appeal is pending in a higher court.

The 2011 State assembly election was widely seen as a mandate against the perceived widening grip of Karunanidhi's extended family in every sphere  including Kollywood, television and real estate. Much to the surprise of many, Jayalalithaa overcame the anti-incumbency factor and won the 2016 assembly elections.

IN PICS | Life of Kalaignar in cinema

Three consecutive electoral failures in the sunset of life, might have felled a lesser man. But Karunanidhi spoke confidently, even in 2016, of returning to power. In or out of power, his schedule remained mostly unchanged -- meeting people and writing every single day -- till his health declined. Even then, supporters were overjoyed by his rare visits out, with photographs of him playing with his grandchildren thrilling many. Indeed, his family, feuding sons and a daughter born of his second and third wives -- Dayalu Ammal and Rajathi Ammal respectively -- and grand-nephews Dayanidhi and Kalanidhi Maran, long seen as his greatest weakness, closed ranks and made amends in his last days, as illness left him incapacitated.

Of all things, Karunanidhi will be most remembered for ensuring 69% reservation in the state, which changed the social landscape of Tamil Nadu even if did not end oppression of Dalits. Critics point out that Karunanidhi did not acknowledge certain atrocities against Dalits, such as the Udumalpet Sankar honour killing, fearing the loss of votes of the intermediate castes. Nonetheless, as part of his commitment to the Dravidian ideology, he brought temples under government control and made efforts to open them up to 'archakars' from all communities. Of all his beliefs, he remained most committed to his devotion to and promotion of the Tamil language and ensured that Hindi would not be imposed on Tamil Nadu. His pride in his Tamil identity and language, positions on State rights and views on social justice -- though often giving way to realpolitik in governance -- nonetheless have resonated among many, despite age and regional barriers, to leave a legacy not easily wished away.
By Online Desk

Birth: 3 June, 1924

Joined politics at the young age of 14

On 17th September, 1949, Arignar Anna established the DMK party

Kalaignar was entrusted with the responsibility of spearheading the campaigns and garnering support among the people of Tamil Nadu.

In 1953 Karunanidhi's foray into Tamil Nadu politics began with his participation in the Kallakudi agitation.

First elected to Tamil Nadu legislative assembly in 1957 from Kulithalai seat of Tiruchirappalli district

Kalaignar was elected as the party president in 1969, after the demise of Arignar Anna,

In 1979, he struck an alliance with Indiras Congress against MGRs ADMK-Janata combine

Swung into the National Front, an anti-Congress formation.

DMK forms government for the third time on January 1989 after winning the general elections.

Karunanidhi ensures a berth for nephew, Murasoli Maran in the V P Singh cabinet.

Between 1996 and 1998 DMK chief emerged as an important player in the United Front.

In 1999, DMK joined the ministry of Prime Minister A B Vajpayee.

In 2001, the Jayalalitha-led AIADMK government got Karunanidhi arrested on corruption charges along with nephew Dayanidhi Maran.

The arrest which left the entire country shell-shocked took place in a dramatic manner with Kalaignar being arrested at 2:00 am with police dragging him off his residence in July, 2001.

In 2004, the grand old Dravidian party swept all the 40 Lok Sabha constituencies in Tamil Nadu and helped Congress-led UPA to form government at the Centre.

The DMK came back to power in 2006 for the fifth time with Kalaignar Karunanidhi as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for the fifth time.

In 2009, Karunanidhi underwent spinal surgery and was confined to wheelchair permanently.

A. Raja resigns as the Telecom Minister amid allegations of corruption in the 2G scam in 2010.

Karunanidhi's daughter Kanimozhi also named as one of the accused in the 2G scam. She was arrested later in 2011.

The DMK chief won the 2011 assembly election for the 12th consecutive time from Thiruvarur.

In August 2016, the DMK chief made his second appearance in the assembly since J. Jayalalitha-led AIADMK government came to power.

In December 2016, Thalaivar was admitted to the Kauvery hospital due to difficulty in breathing but was discharged after treatment.

Karunanidhi named M K Stalin as the working president of DMK in January 2017 thus making him his heir-apparent.

May 2017 Kalignar celebrated his 94th birthday after recovering from tracheotomy and regaining his speech.

October 2017 the DMK chief M Karunanidhi made his first public appearance after a year at an exhibition in Chennai.

In April, 2018 Kalignar visited the DMK party office for the last time.

28 July, 2018 at 1:30 am the DMK chief rushed to Kauvery hospital after his blood pressure fell drastically.
By Express News Service

CHENNAI: After Kauvery Hospital released a press statement that there has been declined in the medical condition of DMK president M Karunanidhi late on Monday evening, people thronged supermarkets to stock provisions as there were rumours that the leader was no more and all shops would be closed.

Due to the sudden demand, one litre milk is sold at Rs 200 at a shop in Sowcarpet. Milk is sold at Rs 200 and food items such as bread went out of stock. There are rumours that Karunanidhi is no more, so people are going into frenzy, said a resident in the area.

Meanwhile, a crowd thronged a supermarket at Vepery to buy food items. Also, most of the petrol bunks in the city were crowded as motorists rushed to fill fuel as a precautionary measure.

There were rumours that all shops would remain closed on Tuesday. This drove people to the shops.

Meanwhile, a few programmes scheduled for Tuesday were either cancelled or postponed.
By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), which has six members in the Rajya Sabha, is likely to support the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate in the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman elections. According to sources, TRS president and chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao is likely to take a decision on the RS deputy chairman elections either on Tuesday or Wednesday. The elections will be held on August 9.

Chandrasekhar Rao could not attend any official programmes or could not discuss any issues with party leaders on Monday, on account of his sisters death. The CM may discuss with us on the RS polls either on Tuesday or Wednesday, a party leader said. However, sources said that TRS was all likely to support the NDA candidate. With the recent biennial elections, the strength of the TRS increased to six.

Though the BJP emerged as the single biggest party in the Rajya Sabha, it lacked sufficient numbers to win the seat in RS. The BJPs strength is 73 and the Congress has 50 members. Thus the BJP is expected to field JD(U) members as NDA candidate. In such case, the TRS will not directly vote for BJP and it will support a regional party candidate.The support of regional and smaller parties is essential for BJP to win the deputy chairman post in RS. The total votes required is 123 for winning the seat as against the total 245 seats in the Rajya Sabha.
By AFP

IRAN: Iranians voiced anger, fear and defiance on Tuesday as the US reimposed sanctions and their leaders dismissed President Donald Trump's offer of talks as an act of "psychological warfare".

Trump's withdrawal from a landmark 2015 nuclear agreement in May had already spooked investors and triggered a run on the Iranian rial long before nuclear-related sanctions went back into force.

"I feel like my life is being destroyed. Sanctions are already badly affecting people's lives. I can't afford to buy food, pay the rent..." said a construction worker on the streets of the capital.

The sanctions reimposed on Tuesday -- targeting access to US banknotes and key industries such as cars and carpets -- were unlikely to cause immediate economic turmoil.

Iran's markets were actually relatively buoyant, with the rial strengthening by 20 per cent since Sunday after the government relaxed foreign exchange rules and allowed unlimited, tax-free gold and currency imports.

But a second tranche to return to effect on November 5 covering Iran's vital oil sector, could be far more damaging -- even if several key customers such as China, India and Turkey have refused to significantly cut their purchases.

In a statement on Monday just hours before the sanctions went back into effect, Trump said: "The Iranian regime faces a choice.

"Either change its threatening, destabilising behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

ALSO READ | US President Donald Trump reimposes tough, unilateral sanctions against Iran after exiting 'horrible' nuclear deal

"I remain open to reaching a more comprehensive deal that addresses the full range of the regime's malign activities, including its ballistic missile programme and its support for terrorism," Trump said.

But his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani dismissed the idea of talks while crippling sanctions were in effect.

"If you're an enemy and you stab the other person with a knife, and then you say you want negotiations, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife," he told state television..

"They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation," Rouhani said. "Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense."

Legitimate business

European governments are infuriated by Trump's strategy, which leaves their businesses in Iran faced with the threat of US legal penalties.

The European Union's diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini said the bloc deeply regrets the US move.

"We are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran," she said in a statement co-signed by the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany.

ALSO READ | Trump admits son met with Russian lawyer in 2016 to get information on opponent

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters the global reaction to Trump's move showed that the US was diplomatically "isolated".

But many large European firms are leaving Iran for fear of US penalties, and Trump warned of "severe consequences" for firms and individuals that continued to do business with Iran.

There is also mounting pressure at home, where US hostility has helped fuel long-running discontent over high prices, unemployment, water shortages and the lack of political reform.

Those protests have proliferated over the past week, though verifiable information is scarce due to heavy reporting restrictions.

Poison cup

Most Iranians see US hostility as a basic fact of life, so their frustration is largely directed at their own leaders for not handling the situation better.

"Prices are rising again, but the reason is government corruption, not US sanctions," said Ali, a 35-year-old decorator in Tehran.

Many hope and believe that Iran's leaders will need to "drink the poison cup" and negotiate with the US eventually.

ALSO READ | Donald Trump reimposes sanctions to levy economic pressure on Iran

There have been rumours that Trump and Rouhani could meet in New York in September on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly -- though Rouhani reportedly rejected US overtures for a meeting at last year's event.

Two countries that have welcomed the tough new US policy are Iran's regional rivals, Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the renewed sanctions as "an important moment for Israel, for the US, for the region, for the whole world."

Iran's currency has lost around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the nuclear pact.

But the last two days have seen an impressive 20 percent rally in the value of the rial after the government announced new foreign exchange rules and launched a corruption crackdown that included the arrest of the central bank's currency chief.

The new rules mean exchange bureaus will reopen after a disastrous attempt to fix the value of the rial in April backfired spectacularly with corrupt traders making a fortune out of a mushrooming black market.
By Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP)  The first set of U.S. sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early Tuesday under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, targeting financial transactions that involve U.S. dollars, Iran's automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

More U.S sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

In an early-morning tweet, Trump said the re-imposition of sanctions mean, "Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States."

"I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!"

The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level. Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 7, 2018

The stiff economic sanctions ratchet up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after Trump pulled the U.S. out of the international accord limiting Iran's nuclear activities.

Trump declared the landmark 2015 agreement had been "horrible," leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

Iran accused the U.S. of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by the Obama administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest. European allies said they "deeply regret" the U.S. action.

As the sanctions loomed Monday, Trump said in a statement, "We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation."

ALSO READ | US President Donald Trump reimposes tough, unilateral sanctions against Iran after exiting 'horrible' nuclear deal

Trump warned that those who don't wind down their economic ties to Iran "risk severe consequences."

The Europeans didn't like any of it.

Despite Trump's claims, the accord "is working and delivering on its goal" of limiting Iran's nuclear program, said a statement by European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

The ministers said the Iran deal is "crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world," and the European Union issued a "blocking statute" Monday to protect European businesses from the impact of the sanctions.

A senior administration official, briefing reporters under ground rules requiring anonymity, said the United States is "not particularly concerned" by EU efforts to protect European firms from the sanctions.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran still can rely on China and Russia to keep its oil and banking sectors afloat. Speaking in a television interview, he also demanded compensation for decades of American "intervention" in the Islamic Republic.

Months of uncertainty surrounding the sanctions have already further hurt Iran's economy. The country's rial currency has tanked, and the downturn has sparked protests across the nation.

The "Trump Administration wants the world to believe it's concerned about the Iranian people," Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a statement posted to Twitter. But, he said, the reimposed sanctions would endanger "ordinary Iranians."

"US hypocrisy knows no bounds," he said.

ALSO READ | Trump softens tone over Iran, says he is ready to meet President Rouhani

U.S. officials insisted the American government stands with the people of Iran and supports many of their complaints against their own government.

National security adviser John Bolton said Iran's leadership is on "very shaky ground," but he insisted economic pressure from the Trump administration is not an attempt at "regime change."

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said sanctions are an important pillar in U.S. policy toward Iran and will remain in place until the Iranian government radically changes course.

"They've got to behave like a normal country. That's the ask. It's pretty simple," said Pompeo, en route Sunday from a three-nation trip to Southeast Asia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a firm foe of the Iranian government, said the sanctions symbolize "the determination to block Iran's regional aggression as well as its continuous plans to arm itself with nuclear weapons."

ALSO READ | US will enforce the sanctions against Iran: Mike Pompeo

He called on the countries of Europe to join the U.S., saying, "The time has come to stop talking; the time has come to do."

The U.S has long designated Iran as the world's foremost state sponsor of terrorism, Pompeo noted Sunday, adding that the Islamic Republic cannot expect to be treated as an equal in the international community until it halts such activities.

He said that "there's no evidence today of a change in their behavior," and in the meantime "we're going to enforce the sanctions."
By AFP

GREECE: Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras on Tuesday vowed to end decades of illegal building "chaos" which he blamed for contributing to devastating fires last month that claimed scores of lives.

Tsipras' government has been severely criticised over its response to the July 23 wildfire in the coastal resort of Mati that claimed 91 lives, making it the deadliest fire disaster in Greek history.

"Illegal building chaos that threatens human lives can no longer be tolerated," Tsipras said after a meeting with ministers and regional administrators.

"Whatever destroys forests and beaches, whatever represents a danger will be torn down," he said. "It is our duty to our dead, but more so towards the living."

People swim at a beach in Rafina, east of Athens, Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018, ten days after the the wildfire . (Photo | AP)

ALSO READ | Greece Wildfire: Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras visits scene of disaster

Four senior officials including the minister responsible for the police and the heads of the police and fire brigade have been removed, days after claiming that the state's response to the emergency had been well-managed.

The government had insisted that with winds blowing at speeds of up to 120 kilometres (75 miles) an hour, there was little time to mount an effective evacuation.

It later emerged that the police had failed to properly seal away the area because the fire brigade had not alerted them to the location and size of the fire.

As a result, many drivers were inadvertently diverted into Mati's narrow streets and trapped.

Residents fleeing the flames with just the clothes on their backs were also left unaided on the beaches for hours.

Charred cars in Greece Wildfire. (Photo | AFP)

Officials now insist that victims would have found it easier to escape if the area had not been so densely built, often in violation of planning laws.

Tsipras said on Tuesday that about 3,200 illegal buildings blocking access to roads, flood channels and the coast in the greater Attica region would be demolished.

A judicial investigation into possible faults by state officials is under way.

The relatives of two people who perished in the fires have also sued the authorities for negligence and exposure to danger.

In addition to the dead, 36 people are still hospitalised, six of them in critical condition.
By Associated Press

LADING-LADING: Soldiers have pulled a man alive from the rubble of a large mosque flattened by an earthquake on the Indonesian island of Lombok, while thousands of homeless locals waited for aid Tuesday and stranded tourists camped at beaches and in the lobbies of damaged hotels.

The north of Lombok has been devastated by the magnitude 7.0 quake that struck Sunday night, killing at least 105 people, seriously injuring more than 230 and destroying thousands of buildings. Two days after the quake, rescuers were still struggling to reach all the affected areas and authorities expected the death toll to rise.

ALSO READ | Indonesia Earthquake: Imam leading namaz prayer as earthquake hits goes viral on social media

Disaster officials have not said how many people they believe are buried beneath the ruins of the Jabal Nur mosque in Lading-Lading but the village head, Budhiawan, said about 30 based on unclaimed belongings left outside the mosque.

Muhamad Juanda, who narrowly escaped, said 100 people were inside praying when the earth began to roll. Many got out but dozens were trapped, he said.

Rescuers carry the body of an earthquake victim recovered from the collapsed Jabal Nur mosque in North Lombok, Indonesia. (Photo | AP)

"When the earthquake happened, I stopped praying with dozens of other people. I stayed during the first shock, but the shock grew stronger and we rolled around trying to run out," he said.

Video shot sometime Monday by a soldier showed rescuers shouting "Thank God" as a man was pulled from a space under the mosque's flattened roof and staggered away from the ruins supported by soldiers.

"You're safe, mister," said one of the soldiers as emotion overcame the man, clad in Islamic robes, and villagers crowded around him.

In this image made from video released by the Indonesian military, a man is carried by Indonesian military after they rescued him from a collapsed mosque in the powerful earthquake. (Photo | AP)

In this image made from video released by the Indonesian military, a man is carried by Indonesian military after they rescued him from a collapsed mosque in the powerful earthquake. (Photo | AP)

Disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said he hopes "a lot" of people can be saved from the mosque. Two people were rescued from the debris Monday including a woman with a broken leg, said villager Supri Yono, and three were found dead. An AP reporter saw one body recovered Tuesday.

"We're forced to deal with broken bones in the traditional way at home because the hospital had to deal with hundreds of other injuries," said Budhiawan, the village head.

Rescuers were using heavy duty cutting equipment on Tuesday to prize apart the tangled mound of debris.

Aid organizations, already on Lombok after it was hit a week earlier by a 6.4 quake that killed 16 people, said they were stepping up their humanitarian efforts.

Oxfam said more than 20,000 people were in temporary shelters and thousands more were camping out in the open. It said clean drinking water was scarce because of a recent spell of extremely dry weather in Lombok. Food, medical supplies, tarpaulins and clothes are also urgently needed, it said.

ALSO READ | Deadliest earthquakes in Indonesia since 2004

The lush countryside of northern Lombok is pockmarked with collapsed homes and shops and damaged mosques. Thousands of people sat on roadsides outside their houses under blue makeshift tents and tarps, too afraid to stay inside because of aftershocks or their homes now uninhabitable.

In the northern town of Tanjung, rescue workers in orange uniforms spent a second day trying to recover a body from the rubble of a destroyed home as a foul stench rose above it.

The brother-in-law of the dead man complained that authorities have not brought in heavy equipment that it is desperately needed.

"I want him to be pulled out of there immediately. But they're working too slow," said Masin, the brother-in-law, as ambulances passed by, sirens wailing.

Behind him, the rescuers, a dozen of them, were drilling into a flattened concrete wall. They had already used saws to cut a square out of the slab but could not find the body.

"The body is pinned underneath. We brought in sniffer dog and used saws and a drill but we can't figure out where he is," said Aprintinus Titus, a rescue worker from the National Search and Rescue Agency.

"We will not give up until we pull him out of this rubble. We know how hard his family is suffering," said Titus.

Hundreds of tourists and workers were still struggling to get off three outlying resort islands where power was cut off and hotels and hostels were damaged. Nugroho said more than 4,600 foreign and Indonesian tourists had been evacuated from the islands, with ships taking people to ports in Lombok and Benoa, Bali.

The north of Lombok was devastated by the powerful quake that struck Sunday night, damaging thousands of buildings and killing a large number of people. (Photo | AP)

British tourist Saffron Amis, who was stranded on Gili Trawangan island, said she spent a second night outdoors as aftershocks rattled the region before finally securing space on a boat.

"We slept in a bungalow until another quake hit us at midnight and then we moved to the beach," she said.

At Lombok's airport, dozens of tourists slept on the floor as they waited for flights off the island. Many hotels closed because of damage but some allowed travellers to camp in their lobbies.

"That was my first experience with the earthquake and it was really terrible," said Lize Reert, a Belgian woman among the several thousand who fled Gili Trawangan. "It was a nightmare in my life."

ALSO READ | Woman rescued from rubble of deadly earthquake on Indonesia's Lombok

Like its better-known neighbour Bali, Lombok is home to beaches and mountains. Hotels and other buildings in both locations are not allowed to exceed the height of coconut trees.

Indonesia is prone to earthquakes because of its location on the "Ring of Fire," an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Basin. In December 2004, a massive magnitude 9.1 earthquake off Sumatra triggered a tsunami that killed 230,000 people in a dozen countries.
By PTI

DHAKA: A global human rights group on Tuesday accused Bangladesh's government of using abusive measures in handling student-led protests calling for safer roads.

New York-based Human Rights Watch said in a statement that ruling party men armed with sticks and machetes have swooped in on the protesters and journalists since the students took to the streets on July 29 after two students were killed in a road accident in the nation's capital, Dhaka.

Several journalists, including an Associated Press photographer, have been attacked. The government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has denied the allegations that its activists were involved, though reports and witnesses have given a different picture.

"It would be shameful if the Sheikh Hasina government is deploying party hoodlums to target students for demanding safe roads," said Brad Adams, Asia director at Human Rights Watch.

"Bangladeshi authorities must immediately halt the violence perpetrated by government supporters against protesters and journalists and respect the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly," he said.

The rights group also criticized the arrest of Shahidul Alam, a renowned photographer and activist, on charges of spreading false information about the protests and propaganda against the government under an information technology law. A court on Monday allowed police to keep him in custody for seven days for questioning. His colleagues said Alam was tortured after he was detained on Sunday night.

The group also demanded punishment for the attackers, instead of the activists. It also said the government should ensure that security forces respect basic human rights standards on the use of force, including in dispersing demonstrations.

"Yet again, Bangladesh authorities seem determined to take abusive shortcuts to problems, and then denounce those who criticize," Adams said. "The authorities should immediately release anyone, including Shahidul Alam, they have locked up for peaceful criticism."

On Monday, Amnesty International criticized Hasina's government for its handling of the situation.

Bangladesh's leading English-language Daily Star was also critical of the government's handling of the situation in an editorial on Tuesday.

"This ... is a violation of the media's constitutional right to free expression, press freedom and the right to information, and is totally unacceptable in a democracy," the editorial said. "Unfortunately the image of the country has suffered, not because of what the students have done but because of the way the government has handled the issue."

Weeklong traffic chaos created by the protests began easing Monday, as immense demonstrations gave way to sporadic protests.

The protests grew last week to tens of thousands of people, becoming a major embarrassment to Hasina's government, which faces a general election later this year.

Bangladesh's Cabinet on Monday endorsed a draft law that would increase the maximum punishment for an accident leading to death to five years in jail, up from the current three years. If someone is killed deliberately, a defendant could receive capital punishment, the law says.

The student protesters have demanded tougher punishment for offenses involving road accidents. Hasina said the students' demands were logical and she would work to meet them in phases.

She urged the students to go back to school. She has blamed the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and its main ally Jamaat-e-Islami for an attempt to manipulate student anger to foment trouble.
By AFP

WASHINGTON: The United States re-imposed a wave of tough, unilateral sanctions against Iran on Tuesday, bringing back into effect harsh penalties that had been lifted under a historic, multi-party nuclear agreement that President Donald Trump abandoned in May.

The first of two rounds of US sanctions kicked in at 12:01 am (0431 GMT), targeting Iran's access to US banknotes and key industries, including cars and carpets.

Iranians are already seeing the effects of the sanctions, with Iran's rial currency losing around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the 2015 nuclear accord.

Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.

He blasted the agreement yet again Monday, calling it a "horrible, one-sided deal (that) failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb."

The unilateral withdrawal came despite other parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the EU -- pleading with Trump not to abandon the pact aimed at blocking Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, and highlights the US leader's go-it-alone style and his distaste for multilateral agreements.

In an executive order Monday, Trump said the sanctions seek to pile financial pressure on Tehran to force a "comprehensive and lasting solution" to Iranian threats, including its development of missiles and regional "malign" activities.

ALSO READ: Trump softens tone over Iran, says he is ready to meet President Rouhani

The European Union's diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini said the bloc, as well as Britain, France and Germany, deeply regretted Washington's move.

"We are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran," she said in a statement.

Many large European firms are leaving Iran for fear of US penalties, and Trump warned of "severe consequences" against firms and individuals that continued to do business with Iran.

The impact of the return of sanctions has ramped up tensions inside Iran, which has seen days of protests and strikes in multiple towns and cities over water shortages, high prices and wider anger at the political system.

Severe reporting restrictions have made it impossible to verify the swirl of claims coming through social media.

'Remove the knife'

Trump said he was open to reaching a more comprehensive deal with Iran "that addresses the full range of the regime's malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism."

But Iranian President Hassan Rouhani was unimpressed by the offer.

READ HERE: Donald Trump says Iran in turmoil since US withdrew from nuclear deal

"If you're an enemy and you stab the other person with a knife, and then you say you want negotiations, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife," the Iranian leader said in an interview on state television.

"They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation," Rouhani said. "Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense."

John Glaser, director of foreign policy studies at the Cato Institute, noted that the US sees the sanctions "as a tool to pressure Iran to come back to the negotiating table to rehash the nuclear deal on terms more to Trump's liking. That is not going to happen."

The second phase of US sanctions, which takes effect November 5 and will block Iran's oil sales, is due to cause more damage, though several countries including China, India and Turkey have indicated they are not willing to entirely cut their Iranian energy purchases.

READ STORY HERE: Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: 'Negotiations with US useless'

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters the global reaction to Trump's move showed that the US was diplomatically "isolated," but acknowledged the sanctions "may cause some disruption."

Rouhani's government has taken emergency measures to stem the collapse of the rial ahead of the return of sanctions.
Reporter

Noelle McGee is a Danville-based reporter at The News-Gazette. Her email is nmcgee@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@n_mcgee).
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Rain likely. High 52F. Winds E at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Steady light rain this evening. Showers continuing overnight. Low near 50F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Reporter

Mary Schenk is a reporter covering police, courts and breaking news at The News-Gazette. Her email is mschenk@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@schenk).
They Were Getting

Married on the

Beach. Then:

'That's Woody!'
(Newser)  A New York cop risked life and limb to rescue a boy she watched jump off a highway overpass. Per the Journal News, Jessie Ferreira Cavallo was on her way to work as a police officer in Westchester County last week when she spotted the young teen on the Saw Mill River Parkway in Yonkers. As she drove, Cavallo watched as the boy climbed over a guardrail and jumped several feet down. The seven-year police veteran followed right behind the boy and jumped down herself, a risky move that would ultimately pay off.

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Per News12, a second womanthis one in a military uniformstopped to assist and the two women began to give the unresponsive boy CPR and strap on a neck brace. The boy was then rushed to a hospital, where he was treated for broken bones. He is expected to survive. As for Cavallo, she said she just went to work and about her day as usual after the jarring experience. "I went to work and worked to 11pm," she told the Journal News on Sunday. "I didn't realize what was going on until yesterday. That's when it hit me." She said she hopes to visit the boy in the hospital. (Read more hero stories.)
(Newser)  A newly released transcript shows Florida school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz told detectives he bought the gun used in the Parkland attack a year or two earlier because he was afraid of demons and voices in his head. Prosecutors released a redacted transcript of Cruz's post-shooting statement Monday afternoon. Cruz made the 12-hour statement to Broward sheriff's Detective John Curcio shortly after the Feb. 14 shooting that killed 17 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and left 17 others injured. Cruz told Curcio the voice began years ago when his father died and got worse when his mother died last fall. Cruz said the voice would tell him to burn, kill and destroy. Cruz said he would set fires in a pit and kill wild birds. Cruz said the voice had told him to hurt people the day before the shooting.

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Per the AP, the statement reveals Cruz also told Curcio that he used a lot of drugs, including marijuana and anti-anxiety pills. Cruz said during the interrogation that he took nearly an entire bottle of ibuprofen in an attempted suicide, but he threw up when his heart and stomach began to hurt. He said he also tried to drink himself to death several years ago with vodka, tequila and wine. He told Curcio he was depressed and lonely. Cruz also spat out "kill me" and then cursed as he sat alone in a sheriff's interrogation room just hours after the massacre. The statement was released to the AP and other media under Florida's broad public record laws. Cruz's attorneys had wanted it suppressed, saying its disclosure could hinder his right to a fair trial. (Read more Nikolas Cruz stories.)
(Newser)  A 37-year-old Tennessee man was shot dead after challenging a man who was abusing a puppy, police say. Fiancee Sue Hoskins, who recently moved back to the state from Iowa with Robert Wilson, tells the Tennessean that he tried to stop a man who was holding a Yorkshire terrier puppy by the throat outside the extended-stay hotel room in Smyrna they'd been living in while looking for an apartment. "[I] went running out there to see Rob saying, 'Why are you doing that' and the guy said it was his puppy and he just shot him," says Hoskins, who tried to stop the bleeding after Wilson was shot in the chest. She says Wilson would have fought to save an abused animal "100 times over."

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The suspect in the July 27 slaying, 35-year-old Donavous Jerome Drennon, surrendered to police last week and was charged with criminal homicide, reports the Murfreesboro Post. Rick Wilson, Robert Wilson's father, tells WSMV that his son got his love of animals from his late motherand like her, he will have an animal on his tombstone. The puppy was turned over to Rutherford County PAWS, and Hoskins hopes she'll be allowed to adopt it. "We feel like Rob is kind of a part of that dog now, since he died to save it," says Jennifer Matzek, fiancee of Matt Wilson, Robert Wilson's younger brother. Matt Wilson has started a GoFundMe campaign to help Hoskins. (Read more animal cruelty stories.)
(Newser)  "What if the young murder victim no one has ever been able to identify has been seen by hundreds of millions of people in a beloved summer classic?" It's a wild idea, but one Joe Hill just can't shake since seeing Jaws on the big screen in 2015. Some 54 minutes in, a woman with a blue bandana over her auburn hair is briefly seen waiting to board a ferry in a non-frightening scene, per the Washington Post. Stephen King's son nonetheless got goosebumps. The comic book and horror writer had only recently been reading about the Lady in the Dunes, an unknown woman found brutally murdered in the sandy dunes of Provincetown, Mass., in late July 1974, while Jaws was being filmed 100 miles away in Martha's Vineyard. The female extra in Jaws was "almost a twin of the figure" presented in a composite sketch of the victim, Hill tells Esquire.

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The Lady in the Dunes was believed to be in her mid-20s to 30s when she was killed in late June or early July. The naked woman's hands were removed, preventing fingerprint identification, and her head, which suffered a fatal blow, was resting on jeans and a blue bandana. Perhaps, Hill suggests, she was among the many Cape Cod residents to head to Martha's Vineyard in the hope of appearing in Jaws that summer. Shared on Tumblr, his theory has caught the attention of Internet sleuths and the new podcast "Inside Jaws." It's also been mentioned to investigators, despite a failed attempt to find the name of the extra; Jaws' casting director died in 2009. "Anything that stirs people's memories could potentially be productive," Hill tells the Post. And "if nothing else, it's a pretty good little ghost story." CapeCod.com has more, including on a serial killer's confession. (Read more cold cases stories.)
(Newser)  Homeland is going to end with its eighth season next yearbut Showtime Networks CEO David Nevins doesn't want to hear the word "cancelation." Alex Gansa, the series co-creator and showrunner, "will bring the show to its proper conclusion," Nevins told the Television Critics Association's summer press tour Monday, per the Hollywood Reporter. The final season of the espionage thriller, which was based on the Israeli series Prisoners of War, will premiere in June 2019, reports Variety. Months before Nevins made it official, Gansa and star Claire Danes had said the eighth season would be the last. (Hired graffiti artists who considered the show bigoted once covered a set in anti-Homeland messages.)
(Newser)  President Trump issued another warning in regard to Tehran on Tuesday, but this time it's directed at nations outside Iran. "Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States," Trump tweeted. "I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!" The message comes as the first round of US sanctions goes back into effect on Iran following Trump's decision to withdraw from the 2015 nuclear arms accord. As the Guardian reports, the warning seems to be aimed mainly at the European Union, which opposes the sanctions. In fact, the EU has sought to protect member nations who continue to do "legitimate business" with Tehran. Trump calls the sanctions "the most biting" ever imposed and noted that they "ratchet up to yet another level" in November.

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Iran's president, meanwhile, tells CNN the US is engaging in "psychological warfare" to sow divisions within Iran, though Hassan Rouhani predicted the sanctions would end up isolating America, not Iran. In addition to EU states, Rouhani said China and Russia would similarly continue conducting business with Iran. However, Rouhani also said he is open to talks with Trump immediately, though he suggested that the sanctions must end first. "If somebody puts a knife in its opponent or enemy's arm and says we want to negotiate, the answer is that they must first pull out the knife and then come to the negotiation table." (Secretary of State Mike Pompeo previously outlined what the US wants.)
(Newser)  Beach volleyball players on a small island off Alabama probably killed hundreds of unhatched birds, moving eggs to make room for their court and scaring adult birds from nests, reports the AP. The day after the damage was found, the conservation group Birmingham Audubon put up ropes and signs to tell people about the Sand Island rookery of federally protected birds called least ternsand the education has worked, biologist Katie Barnes tells AL.com. The rope, strung between posts, is called "symbolic fencing." "Ever since we put the fencing up, everyone has been very respectful. We have not seen a human footprint in the area. Boaters have not pulled up to that area," she said. Least terns are white birds with black caps. They're half as big as cardinals, weigh less than 1.5 ounces and lay eggs in shallow depressions in the sand.

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The damage was discovered over the Fourth of July weekend by wildlife researcher Andrew Haffenden, who was conducting a survey for Birmingham Audubon on a small spit that juts off of Dauphin Island. "I counted 17 boats out there on that island, so I was pretty disturbed," Haffenden said. "I could see the volleyball net and the tents." He and others found piles of eggs. Not only did the players remove all the eggs from nests around their net, they "actually made a little dome of sand and placed the eggs around it to decorate it," he said. With 17 boats, he estimated hundreds of birds would have left their nests to avoid people. Audubon surveyed the entire island, finding 520 active least-tern nests and 13 black-skimmer nests. "Even with all the eggs that were lost, this site has still been a huge success for the birds," Barnes said.

(Read more birds stories.)
(Newser)  The scene of an infamous criminal act has once again been vandalized. The New York Times charts the recent history of the sign that has marked the spot where Emmett Till's body was in 1955 pulled from the Tallahatchie River; the 14-year-old had been lynched after a white woman said he whistled at her. In 2007, a sign was erected at that spot and seven other places significant to his murder. But that riverside sign's history has been a fraught one: It was stolen and never recovered, reports CNN, and the replacement has been on the receiving end of more than 100 bullets over the years. A fresh sign went up in June and sat there, unscarred, for 35 days. On July 26, four bullet holes blighted the sign once more.

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One bullet pierced the word "mother," in a sentence referencing Mamie Till Mobley's desire "not to bury her son" but return him to his hometown Chicago. Patrick Weems, co-founder of the Emmett Till Interpretive Center, says the very nature of the sign's location suggests the shooting was intentional: One has to travel about two miles down a dirt road to get to it. In the wake of the incident, Weems says he's accepted an offer to have a fourth sign made, for free and out of steel, which is superior to the metal that's previously been used. Till's case was closed in 2007, but the Justice Department reopened the case earlier this year after receiving "new information." The DOJ didn't elaborate, but the development followed the 2017 publication of a book that quotes Till's accuser, Carolyn Bryant Donham, as admitting she made up the worst parts of her story. More of her comments here. (Read more Emmett Till stories.)
(Newser)  It's unanimous, at least in the West Hollywood City Council: The group voted Monday night to get rid of President Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, reports the Wrap. The resolution urges the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the City of Los Angeles to remove the star, the target of repeated vandalism, due to Trump's "disturbing treatment of women and other actions." The group didn't pass the nonbinding resolution "because Donald Trump is a conservative or a Republican," West Hollywood Mayor John Duran tells NBC News. "Earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is an honor. When one belittles and attacks minorities, immigrants, Muslims, people with disabilities, or womenthe honor no longer exists." He adds to the Washington Post: "To think that we would pay tribute to someone who's causing such a horrible disaster to our country's values."

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Trump received the star in 2007 for his work on The Apprentice and the Miss Universe pageants, among other achievements. But there are issues with the group's plans. First, per USA Today, the Walk of Fame isn't under West Hollywood's jurisdictionthe city of Los Angeles claims that duty, via the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. Past stances from the chamber suggest Trump's star is there for the long haul. "Once a star has been added to the walk, it is considered a part of the historic fabric of the Hollywood Walk of Fame," the chamber's president said in 2015, noting a star had never been removed, per the Los Angeles Times. Protests to remove stars for Bill Cosby and Kevin Spacey were also shut down, though Duran tells the Post Trump is different, as he's "the leader of the free world." Mark Hamill's suggestion to replace Trump's star: Give the space to Carrie Fisher. (Read more Donald Trump stories.)
(Newser)  We humans consume a lot of antidepressants, and that means birds inadvertently do the same while feeding at sewage plants. Now researchers in the UK suggest that it's taking a toll on the birds' libidos, making themor at least the femalesless attractive to prospective mates. In their study, researchers at the University of York focused on starlings in captivity. They fed the birds worms laced with Prozac, on par with what their counterparts in the wild might pick up while eating worms and insects at sewage plants, and then watched what happened. Dosed males didn't change much, but dosed females suddenly seemed less attractive to the boys. Male starlings sang less frequently to them and treated them more aggressivelypecking, tugging at feathersthan is typical in the wooing phase.

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It's "the first evidence that low concentrations of an antidepressant can disrupt the courtship of songbirds," says study co-author Kathryn Arnold in a release. "We're definitely not saying that it's bad to take antidepressants, but certainly there is a greater need for new technologies to clean out sewage," she elaborates to the Washington Post. Presumably, the same type of behavior occurs in the wild, but researchers note that it's hard to replicate for a not-so-great reason: Wild birds are dining not just on Prozac but on a whole cocktail of pharmaceuticals, and the study adds to evidence that growing concentrations of them "can alter important traits related to individual fitness and population dynamics," per the study. (Drawings of a cockatoo revealed a medieval surprise.)
(Newser)  Voters in five states go to the polls on Tuesday, and analysts will again be looking for clues on what the results might mean for the November midterms. Some highlights:



Kansas: The GOP primary for the governor's seat might be the highest-profile contest of the night because of President Trump. On Monday, Trump backed conservative Secretary of State Kris Kobach over the sitting Republican incumbent, Jeff Colyer, notes the AP. One fear for Republicans is that if Kobach wins, he'd be vulnerable to Democrats in November.

The GOP primary for the governor's seat might be the highest-profile contest of the night because of President Trump. On Monday, Trump backed conservative Secretary of State Kris Kobach over the sitting Republican incumbent, Jeff Colyer, notes the AP. One fear for Republicans is that if Kobach wins, he'd be vulnerable to Democrats in November. Ohio: This is a special election, not a primary, to fill the seat of retired GOP Rep. Pat Tiberi. The seat has long been held by Republicans, but Democrat Danny O'Connor is in a surprisingly close race against the GOP's Troy Balderson. A GOP loss would be a "psychological blow" to the party, per CNN, but no matter what happens, the two candidates will be squaring off again in November. Trump tweeted on behalf of Balderson on Tuesday.

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Michigan: An open governor's seat is at stake, and if Abdul El-Sayed wins the Democratic primary and again in November, he would become the nation's first Muslim governor. Bernie Sanders is a big supporter, notes CNN. Elsewhere, Fayrouz Saad is one of the Democrats vying for the seat of retiring Rep. Dave Trott, and she has the chance to become the first Muslim woman in Congress, per the AP.

An open governor's seat is at stake, and if Abdul El-Sayed wins the Democratic primary and again in November, he would become the nation's first Muslim governor. Bernie Sanders is a big supporter, notes CNN. Elsewhere, Fayrouz Saad is one of the Democrats vying for the seat of retiring Rep. Dave Trott, and she has the chance to become the first Muslim woman in Congress, per the AP. Missouri: The Senate race here is getting big attention, because it's seen as one of the GOP's best chances to unseat a Democratic incumbent, in this case Claire McCaskill. State Attorney General Josh Hawley is expected to win the GOP nomination Tuesday night.

The Senate race here is getting big attention, because it's seen as one of the GOP's best chances to unseat a Democratic incumbent, in this case Claire McCaskill. State Attorney General Josh Hawley is expected to win the GOP nomination Tuesday night. Washington state: Various congressional primaries are on the ballot, and one interesting facet is that Washington uses what the AP calls a "jungle primary" system in which all candidates regardless of party are listed on the same ballot. The top two advance. One big race is for the seat of retiring GOP Rep. Dave Reichert near Seattle.

(Read more elections stories.)
(Newser)  A preeminent rocket scientist is dead, and Syria says Israel is to blame. The Washington Post describes Aziz Asbar as a research director at Syria's Scientific Studies and Research Center, and intelligence officials have drawn a line between that center and Syria's chemical weapons program, though Asbar's work was on missiles, not chemical weapons. Indeed, the New York Times describes Asbar as having a mission: "amassing an arsenal of precision-guided missiles that could be launched with pinpoint accuracy against Israeli cities hundreds of miles away." He was killed by a car bomb Saturday night in Masyaf, and Syria was quick to allege Israel's spy agency, Mossad, was behind it.

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The remainder of the Times' account is based on an unnamed official with a Middle Eastern intelligence agency; he says Israel had indeed been tracking Asbar over the belief that he led a secret unit called Sector 4 whose missile-development efforts were done in collaboration with Iran. Much of Israel's concern is tied to Iran, which has been assisting the Assad regime, the fear being that the conclusion of Syria's civil war could see those Iranian forces set their sights on Israel. As for Asbar, the Post cites Syrian media reports that he had managed to survive two prior assassination attempts, with the al-Watan daily newspaper declaring "yet again the Israeli enemy has assassinated one of the greatest Syrian minds." The Times offers a history of such attacks. (The actress who was Syria's "scream of hope" is dead.)
(Newser)  A warning before you read on: As far as child abuse cases go, the Guardian calls this one "the worst of its kind in German criminal history." A 48-year-old woman and her 39-year-old partner (himself a convicted pedophile) have been convicted of selling the woman's now-10-year-old son on the darknet to pedophiles and raping and abusing him themselves, per the Local. Those pedophiles paid as much as $11,500 each time they abused him, and prosecutors identified more than 50 overall acts of rape, abuse, humiliation, and bondage. Six men who paid to abuse the boy will serve between eight and 10 years; the mother, Berrin T., will serve 12.5; her partner, Christian L., will serve 12. They saw their sentences trimmed because they helped lead authorities to the other abusers.

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Police say the abuse lasted for two years and ended after an anonymous tip. The boy is in foster care and, per his lawyer, doing OK considering what he has been through. The case has been a flashpoint in the country, with Deutsche Welle detailing the failings that prevented the boy from being rescued earlier. Among them: In March 2017 the boy was removed from the home after it was found he was living with Christian, who as a convicted pedophile could not have contact with children; the courts didn't speak with the boy but rather sided with his mother and returned him. As for Berrin, the judge described her as initially participating in the scheme in order to maintain her relationship with Christian but says she then became motivated by money; videos of the abuse were also sold on the darknet. As for that footage, investigators have said it brought them "to their limits." (Read more child abuse stories.)
(Newser)  Officials in Indonesia have reportedly found a woman who went missing as a 13-year-old in 2003held in a cave-like space under the control of an 83-year-old shaman. The BBC reports on the allegations, which date back 15 years to when the then-teen's family took her to a man named Jago for an unspecified treatment and left her in his care. Jago allegedly told the family the girl, identified by the Jakarta Post as HS, left for Jakarta to find work later that year; they searched for her fruitlessly. But a tip led police to Galumpang in central Sulawesi, where they say they found the now-28-year-old living in what the BBC describes as a cave near Jago's home that was outfitted with a few items of furniture. The Post paints a cruder picture, framing it as a "hole" and a "crevice between several very large rocks."

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"We found the victim in a gap between rocks," says a local police rep. Officials say she was too fearful to flee because of a spirit, or "jin." The BBC reports Jago allegedly convinced her she was possessed by one; the Post describes him as telling her the hole was being guarded by one. Either way, both reports describe her as "brainwashed." Jago is accused of raping her throughout her captivity and faces as many as 15 years in prison if convicted; further charges may be filed. In a truly bizarre twist, the Post reports police learned of HS' whereabouts from a neighbor of Jago's sonwho is married to the sister of HS, who allegedly knew where her sister was and argued with her husband about it; the neighbor allegedly heard their argument and informed police. (Read more captives stories.)
New Delhi:

In a heavy crackdown on anti-social elements under the Operation All Out, the Amethi Police has arrested 50 people accused of various offences, including murder and dowry deaths, an official said on Tuesday.



The anti-crime drive, "Operation All Out" was launched by the state government. At least 50 offenders who were evading arrest were caught, said Additional Superintendent of Police B C Dubey.

Also Read | Four persons were detained after an alleged incident of cow slaughter

The 14 police stations, including a woman police station, in Amethi has no arrest warrant pending against anybody, police said.



Dubey said the SHOs of two police stations, Kamrauli and Jamo, who failed to catch the accused with arrest warrants pending in their jurisdictions have been served show-cause notices for failing to discharge their duties.

Also Read | Incessant rain throws life out of gear in Uttarakhand's Dehradun

(With inputs from agencies)
Dimapur (Nagaland),:

The BJP Nagaland unit on Tuesday took out a protest rally and burnt an effigy of Congress leader Shashi Tharoor for his remarks that Prime Minister Narendra Modi donned outlandish Naga and other headgear but refused to put on a Muslim skull cap and said the former union minister had made fun of the rich culture and traditions of the Nagas.

Shri @ShashiTharoor ji made fun of the rich culture and traditions of Nagas & Nagaland and insulted our respected PM @narendramodi ji for wearing a Naga Headgear.



As a mark of our protest for his cheap and insulting comment, BJYM Nagaland burnt his effigy.@poonam_mahajan pic.twitter.com/qSx3RyUK8V  BJYM (BJP Youth Wing) (@BJYM) August 7, 2018

Also read | Union ministers slam Shashi Tharoor for comments on Modi's headgear

The state BJP also demanded an apology from the Congress leader.

Tharoor has shown utter disregard towards the custom of the Nagas and have crossed all limits. It is shameful for someone who was at the United Nations and is an elected representative to mock the custom of the tribal people. He has insulted the tribal people of north east in general and the Nagas in particular, PTI quoted Nagaland BJP General Secretary James Vizo as saying.

Tharoor, addressing a seminar, had alleged that the prime minister could wear all kinds of head-gear but not Muslim skull cap.

I ask you why does our prime minister wear all sorts of outlandish headgear wherever he goes around the country or around the world? Why does he always refuse to wear a Muslim skull cap?

You see him in Naga headgears with feathers. You have seen him in various kinds of extraordinary outfits which is a right thing for a prime minister to do. Indira Gandhi has also been photographed wearing various kinds of costumes. But why he still always says no to one? Tharoor said at a seminar in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday.

Also Read | Nagaland CM hits out at Tharoor's 'outlandish' headgear remark

Meanwhile, Minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju, Union minister for DoNER Jitendra Singh and Union minister of state for information and broadcasting Rajyavardhan Rathores on Monday took to Twitter to hit out at Tharoor.

Congress Party & Shashi Tharoor ji please explain what's the English meaning of outlandish & hilarious headgear?

You can't get away after insulting the Tribal & North East people. https://t.co/8nQ22AyNHA  Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) August 6, 2018

DoNER minister said: Dear @ShashiTharoor, this smacks of outlandish mindset, particularly a mocking affront to rich traditional culture of people of Northeast, including those of Nagaland whom you specifically choose to mention. Its this Congress mindset, which treated Northeast with disdain for 70 yrs."

Rathore alleged that Tharoor has insulted the proud cultural heritage of the people of Northeast. This condescension & arrogance towards the people of India have become hallmarks of @INCIndia, he tweeted.

Shashi Tharoor insults the proud cultural heritage of the people of North-East.



This condescension & arrogance towards the people of India have become hallmarks of @INCIndia. pic.twitter.com/vul4SOtpVN  Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) August 6, 2018

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio also took strong objection to Congress leaders remark and demanded an apology from Tharoor..
New Delhi:

Kangana Ranaut has been breaking the rule in her fight against social stigma and this time her simple style mantra for fighting depression and attaining happiness is be comfortable in what you are wearing. Thats the way to look happy and feel confident, Kangana says.

"One way to look happy and feel confident is to be comfortable in what you are wearing. I wear what I like and what I feel I look good in. My style differs from being individualistic, fierce, to feminine, vintage and goddess-like.

The actor is the brand ambassador of Global Desi, women's wear brand by House of Anita Dongre, which launched their Fall '18 collection 'Gypsy Heart' in Delhi recently.

Also Read | Former Miss India-UK Deana Uppal heading for a new 'direction'

The Mental Hai Kya star strongly believes in her responsibility as a leading celebrity to work towards breaking social stigmas and talks about her latest Mental Hai Kya.

"I realised there was so much stigma attached to being differentwe need to stand-up and break these notions and address this subject," Kangana said in a report in PTI on the topicon-screen.

Mental Hai Kya, produced by Ekta Kapoor, is Kangana's second collaboration with Rajkummar Rao after Queen.

Read More | Don't have X-factor: Salman Khan

Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Prakash Kovelamudi, the film also stars Amyra Dastur and Jimmy Sheirgill. It will release on February 22.

"I believe in giving 100 per cent to all the movies I am associated with and I will continue to take up roles which appeal to me, and that will make a difference to the audience," Kangana said.

Kangana will also be seen in "Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi" scheduled for January 26 release.

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New Delhi:

Hollywood actor Jennifer Garner and her 12-year-old daughter Violet got lost while they were kayaking on a holiday trip in Sweden and had to be rescued, the actor revealed in an Instagram post.



On a pre-middle school sneak away with my eldest... Did I get us lost in a kayak? Yes, Garner wrote along side a photograph of them kayaking on Monday.

Also Read | Priyanka Chopra finally breaks her silence on her secret engagement



In the picture, Garner and Violet are seen paddling together as the evening sun sets.



Did we paddle as hard as we could for 100 hours and end up in a shipping lane? Im afraid so. Did we have to be rescued? Yup, she added.

Also Read | Lady Gaga regrets calling Rick Genest's death a suicide



The 46-year-old actor stars in a comedy series Camping, her latest which was released in July.

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New Delhi:

At least four soldiers, including an Army Major, were killed in a gun battle with a group of terrorists trying to infiltrate from Gurez in north Kashmir on Monday. The infiltration bid, however, was foiled by the security forces and two terrorists were also killed, the Army said in a statement.

The officials said that the bodies of two militants could be seen from a distance while two more were believed to had been killed. The reinforcements of the Army were rushed to the encounter site.

Also Read | Article 35-A hearing adjourned because of Amarnath yatra: Separatists

The encounter between the Indian Army's patrolling party and the infiltrating group of terrorists took place at Govind Nallah in Gurez sector of Bandipore district.

According to initial reports, eight terrorists were trying to infiltrate into the Indian side of the border. Four of the terrorists fled back to Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, while four were believed to be dead.

Also Read | Army likely to take action against Major Leetul Gogoi in Kashmiri woman case

Meanwhile, the deceased Indian Army soldiers were identified as Major KP Rane, Hawaldars Jamie Singh and Vikramjeet and rifleman Mandeep.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Delhi:

Another controversy erupted on Wednesday after the Tamil Nadu government rejected the opposition DMKs demand for allotting space on the Marina beach for the burial of its leader M Karunanidhi and offered space near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamraj.

Following this high octane political drama, a PIL is filed in the Madras High Court seeking to restrain the Corporation of Greater Chennai from permitting any burial of bodies on the famous Marina Beach was dismissed as withdrawn on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Madras High Court acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G. Ramesh has agreed to hear the case against denial of burial land by Tamil Nadu Government by 10:30 pm on Wednesday.

Here are the LIVE updates:

#12:18 AM: Looks like it is the design of RSS to deny our great leader @kalaignar89 a place in Marina. The BJP stands exposed now, it is the BJP and its leaders who are opposing #marina4kalaignar, DMK leader A Saravanan tweeted.

#12:08 AM: Duraisamy claims the burial spot that DMK is claiming for Karunanidhi's burial is not close to the coastal zone of Marina Beach and does not flout any rules. He adds the burial spot would be next to DMK founder Annadurai.

I withdraw all cases in this regard because Kalaignar Karunanidhi is important for us. So now, there are no legal hurdles for govt: Doraisamy, advocate who filed petition against burial on Marina, on TN govt denies burial space for Karunanidhi near Anna Memorial at Marina beach pic.twitter.com/Hh7fq9FO1t  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

#12:04 AM: The Tamil Nadu government cannot use my petition to deny a burial ground to Karunanidhi. I am withdrawing my earlier plea against the Jaya memorial. It is wrong for the govt to use my plea to deny burial ground to Karunanidhi, says Duraisamy.

#12:02 AM: Duraisamy, who had filed a PIL against Jayalalithaas memorial at the Marina beach, says he is withdrawing his case against the memorial if this is what is posing a legal impediment towards getting a burial site for Karunanidhi at the Marina Beach beside Anna's memorial.

#11:38 PM: Madras High Court acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G Ramesh has started the hearing on DMK's plea against the state govt's refusal to allow Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina Beach. The 2-member bench is hearing the plea at the residence of the chief justice.

#11:12 PM: Additional Advocate Generals PH Arvindh Pandian and SR Rajagopal have arrived at Madras HC acting Chief Justice's residence.

#11:00 PM: Additional Advocate General Aravind Pandian and SR Rajagopal will be representing the Tamil Nadu govt in DMKs case against the state.

#10:56 PM: DMK workers raise slogans in Gopalapuram hailing Karunanidhi and demand his burial next to Anna memorial at Marina beach.

# 10:37 PM: Lawyers for DMK reach the residence of Madras High Court acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G. Ramesh who had agreed to hear today a case against denial of burial land by Tamil Nadu Govt at Marina beach for Karunanidhi.

Lawyers for DMK reach residence of Madras High Court acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G. Ramesh who had agreed to hear today a case against denial of burial land by Tamil Nadu Govt at Marina beach for #Karunanidhi pic.twitter.com/kQQzHthwcm  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

# 09:19 PM: Madras High Court acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G. Ramesh agrees to hear by 10:30 pm today a case against denial of burial land by Tamil Nadu Govt at Marina beach for Karunanidhi.

Madras High Court acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G. Ramesh agrees to hear by 10:30 pm today a case against denial of burial land by Tamil Nadu Govt at Marina beach for #Karunanidhi pic.twitter.com/gml5ttBFv0  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Read | DMK chief Karunanidhi passes away; leaves behind rich legacy

DMK working president M K Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had also written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leaders mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina. Stalin had also met the chief minister hours before his fathers death.

A government statement said it was unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications.

Hence, the government is prepared to allot a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, the statement added.

There are also reports that the government was reluctant about allotting space for Karunanidhis burial at the Marina as he was not a sitting chief minister.

Read | DMK chief Karunanidhi passes away; here is how national leaders react on Twitter

Former chief minister M G Ramachandran and his protegee J Jayalalitha were also buried at the Marina beach and memorials to them were erected at the place. Both were bitter foes of Karunanidhi in politics.

DMK cadres held impromptu protests and engaged in sloganeering demanding a place for Karunanidhis burial at he Marina beach.

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New Delhi:

In an unprecedented move, the Supreme Court on Tuesday restrained all the print, electronic, and social media from telecasting or broadcasting the images of the victims even in blurred form and asked journalists not to interview them.

The apex court also warned the media against interviewing minor rape victims, saying it has a serious impact on their mental health. The court has also asked the Centre to take proposed steps to prevent rape incidents while observing that women are being raped from left to right to centre all over the country.

However, it has allowed the members of the National Commission For Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and State Commissions For Protection of Child Rights to interview the victims of sexual abuse in presence of counsellors.

Read | Muzaffarpur Shelter Home Rape: SC pulls up Bihar government for funding Brajesh Thakurs NGO

Earlier in the day, the apex court also came down heavily on the Delhi Commission for Women for trying to intervene in the Bihar shelter home case and said that no politics should be involved in the matter.

The judgement came on the heels of Muzaffarpur and Deoria shelter home sex scandal, both of which relates to the mental, physical and sexual exploitation of the girls residing at the Balika Grihs of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh respectively.

While at least 34 girls were allegedly raped at the Muzaffarpur shelter home run by Brajesh Thakur, a total of 24 girls were rescued from the Deoria shelter home in Uttar Pradesh.

Read | Shelter Home Sexual Assault: Maneka Gandhi asks states to build central facility to prevent misuse by NGOs

Thakur, who is a well-known personality in the power corridor of Patna is currently in custody. On the other hand, Girija Tripathi, the director of Deoria shelter home and her husband were also arrested by the UP police after the sexual exploitation was first highlighted on Sunday, August 5, 2018.

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New Delhi:

In an effort to tackle law and order and national security threat, the Centre has sought industry views on technical measures to be developed for blocking social media mobile apps like Telegram, Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp among others when faced with national security.

The Department of Telecom (DoT), in a letter, has called upon all telecom operators, the Internet Service Providers Association of India (ISPAI), industry body Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) and others to provide inputs to block the applications under Section 69A of the IT Act.

Also Read | Assam government to recruit over 3,000 doctors

"DoT in the letter had said that the Electronics and IT Ministry and enforcement agencies have raised issue around blocking of certain mobile apps like Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Telecom, etc to meet requirement under Section 69A of IT Act," the PTI quoted an official source as saying.

The letter was written and sent to the concerned authorities on July 18, 2018.

Also Read | Delhi Metro's DDSC-Lajpat Nagar section launched

The Facebook-owned popular messaging app, WhatsApp, has been in the news for rampant misuse and abuse of its platform for circulation of damaging news that provoke and incite mob fury. While measures were reportedly in place, the previously listed measures by WhatsApp for checking fake news failed to impress the government. The government had recently warned the service of legal consequences in failure to make adequate checks. WhatsApp had then told the government that the focus of the firm was on improving its platform to ensure peoples safety.

Under the Section 69A of IT Act talks, directions for blocking for public access to any information through any computer resource can be issued. The law authorises the central government or any officer authorised by it to issue direction to block the information on Internet in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of the state, friendly relations with foreign states or public order or for preventing incitement to the commission of any cognisable offence relating to them.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Delhi:

The Supreme Court on Tuesday slammed Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government for funding the NGO running Muzaffarpur shelter home, where 34 girls were allegedly raped and sexually assaulted.

Referring to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, the apex court said that every six hours a woman is raped in India. Taking strong exception to the recent incidents of mass rape and sexual assault in BJP ruled Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, the court said that women in India were being raped "left, right and centre".

An Amicus Curiae appointed in the case told the court that the JDU-BJP government in Bihar didnt pay any compensation to the alleged victims of rape and sexual assaults at Muzaffarpur shelter home.

Also Read | Parliament Monsoon Session LIVE: Investigation on Panama Papers underway, FM Goyal tells RS

Last week, the apex court had taken suo moto cognizance of the case and asked Bihar and Narendra Modi-led central government to submit a detailed reply on why they failed to stop the minor girls from being raped in Muzaffarpur.

The chargesheet filed in the case revealed a network of police, politicians, administration and criminals behind the sex racket that had been going on for around four years.

The victims revealed macabre details about the case. They said that girls, as young as seven, were drugged, scalded with boiling water, raped and forced to sleep naked with the hunterwala uncle Brajesh Thakur, the owner of the shelter home and a powerful name in the power corridors of Patna.

Thakur is among the 10 people arrested so far in connection with the case. The Opposition RJD, however, alleged that several ministers of the ruling government were closely linked to Thakur. The party even claimed that one of the state cabinet ministers husband was a frequent visitor to the shelter home.

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New Delhi:

The issue of Deoria shelter home scandal is set to echo in Parliament on the 14th day of monsoon session on Tuesday. Opposition MPs from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the Samajwadi Party and the CPI-M protested inside the Parliament premises over the issue of shelter home mass rapes in Bihars Muzaffarpur and Uttar Pradeshs Deoria.

If the Opposition ruckus doesnt force the House to adjourn, several important Bills, including the National Medical Commission Bill (NMCB), 2017 will be taken up for consideration and passage.

While the National Medical Commission Bill will be taken up in the Lok Sabha, The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Amendment) Bill, 2018 and The Commercial Courts, Commercial Division and Commercial Appellate Division of High Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2018 are scheduled for passage in the Rajya Sabha.

Besides, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MPs continued their protest over the special status demand for Andhra Pradesh.

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LIVE Updates:

# 15:05 PM: Rajya Sabha adjourned till Wednesday.

#12:50 PM: Rajnath Singh speaks on Deoria issue: After the uproar over Deoria and Muzaffarpur shelter home mass rapes, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh informed the house that top officers will probe the cases. Terming the incidents of sexual abuse in the government-run shelter homes "unfortunate and serious", Singh assured that guilty will be punished.

#12:30 PM: Investigation on Panama Papers underway: "It contains details of 426 persons. So far 62 invasion action have been conducted and 12 survey actions have been taken. Investigations are going on, says Finance Minister Piyush Goyal.

#12:20 PM: Question hour in Rajya Sabha: Union Health Minister JP Nadda, while responding to a question by a Kerala MP said, "We have decided we will have AIIMS like institutes all over the country in phases."

#11:45 AM: Rahul Gandhi arrives for Congress Parliamentary Party meeting: Congress President Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders including Jyotiraditya Scindia, KC Venugopal & Ranjeet Ranjan arrive for Congress Parliamentary Party meeting.

Delhi: Congress President Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders including Jyotiraditya Scindia, KC Venugopal & Ranjeet Ranjan arrive for Congress Parliamentary Party meeting. pic.twitter.com/jqZiWFdLqd  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

#11:40 AM: SP, RJD, CPI-M protest over the string of mass rapes in UP, Bihar shelter homes: MPs from the SP, the RJD and the CPI-M staged a protest inside Parliament premises over the issue of Deoria and Muzaffarpur shelter home mass rapes.

Delhi: RJD, SP and CPI MPs protest in the Parliament premises over #DeoriaShelterHomeCase and #MuzaffarpurShelterHome issue. pic.twitter.com/f6ClYBD4Wz  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

#11:30 AM: TDP protest over special status demand for AP continues: Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MPs continued to stage their protest inside Parliament premises to press for their demand of special status for Andhra Pradesh.

TDP MPs protest in the Parliament premises over their demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/5zrJf7iDEJ  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

#11:15 AM: Bills to be taken up today: 1. Lok Sabha - The National Medical Commission Bill, 2017 will be taken up for consideration and passage in the lower house. 2. Rajya Sabha - The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Amendment) Bill, 2018 and The Commercial Courts, Commercial Division and Commercial Appellate Division of High Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2018 will be taken up for passage in the upper house of Parliament.

#11:00 AM: Hello and welcome to the News Nation live updates: Both the houses of Parliament - the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha will convene for the 14th day of Monsoon session on Tuesday. Several key bills, including the National Medical Commission Bill, The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Amendment) Bill, 2018 and The Commercial Courts, Commercial Division and Commercial Appellate Division of High Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2018 will be taken up for consideration and passage in the lower house and the upper house respectively. Stay with us as we bring you all the latest updates on the proceeding of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

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New Delhi:

Around 17 lakh Maharashtra government employees on Tuesday begun their three-day-long strike, to press for their demands, including the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission among others. However, around 1.5 lakh gazetted officers withdrew from the strike after the government promised to pay pending arrears of the Dearness Allowance (DA) for a period of 14 months.

Apart from the Seventh Pay Commission implementation, the demands of employees also include a five-day week and an increase in the retirement age from 58 years to 60 years.

In a Government Resolution (GR) issued on Monday night, Devendra Fadnavis-led Maharashtra government said that the 7th pay commission will be implemented from January 2019, months before next Lok Sabha elections. The other two demands will be taken up during Diwali festival in November, an official said, according to PTI.

Also Read | Maratha Reservation: Two commit suicide, 8 attempt self-immolation

According to the GR issued by the ruling BJP-led state government, the arrears will be paid in the salaries of employees for August month. If the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission is delayed, the employees will get the benefit as per the wage structure of the Central government employees from January 2019.

The employees of the Central government have been getting the benefits of the 7th pay commission since 2016. Seven state governments have implemented the pay commission, state Government Employees Organisation president Nitin Sardeshmukh, adding that the employees were yet to receive the arrears of the sixth Pay Commission.

Also Read | Maratha reservation: 10 reasons Maratha Kranti Morcha stir turned violent

A General Administration Department (GAD) official said the employees working in essential services departments like hospitals, fire brigade, water supply etc. have been directed not to join the strike else provisions of Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) will be invoked against them.

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Delhi:

Inevitably, the rechristening of Mughalsarai railway junction after one of the founders of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya by BJP president Amit Shah on August 5 takes the attention to the top bracket of Jana Sangh and BJP leaders. And to the chequered history of the two rightwing organisations that followed one after the other like twin chapters of recent history and politics.

A medieval legacy marked the sprawling facility until the other day with a vast web of rail lines, though built in another time, by the sheer name Mughalsarai. The rubric signified hardly anything more than the fact that the medieval era gave way to the modern times for sound reasons.

Yet, medievalism lingered through the time not just because of the name but also courtesy those who succeeded the Mughals despite the British coming in between with their rail systems and other modern-day regalia. An old order tipped to give way to another. The swagger of history railed through intrigues and vicious pursuit of power towards the end of the Mughal era till it was vanquished.

Also Read Analysis | Cult of Martyrdom: Schools out, its protest time in Gaza

This is what Mughalsarai could have told though may be besides other things to the multitudes journeying through it till the virtual Mughals of the day pulled out their masterstroke by renaming it after another pantheon of the Sangh Parivar.

Deendayal Upadhyaya was a Jana Sangh phenomenon in the 1960s. Together with the late Balraj Madhok he had cofounded the saffron party in those hey days of the party that later turned into the BJP. And Upadhyays life was abruptly cut short when his body was found lying besides the rail track close to the then Mughalsarai railway station. He was on way to Patna in a train which he had boarded at Lucknow. His untimely death brought his party to the virtual junction of its journey to what looked like to be an uncertain future. So much so that it gave a chance to his successors in the party after 50 years of his death to repaint the spot of the tragedy after him.

But the very manner of his death had reminded of Mughal era like intrigues leading to power driven murders. There were demands of probe into the baffling incident. A commission of inquiry was set up under a judge to clear the air. He, however, ruled out politics to be behind the death of the Jana Sangh leader. Yet, doubts about what led to his unseemly death persist till this day. Last year, the demand to reopen the probe into this was made in Maharashtra though by the Congress, a party that came under sharp attack at Sundays renaming ceremony by Amit Shah in the presence of a galaxy of Central and state ministers and his party peers.

Also Read Opinion | The confessions - NCWs inappropriate proposal

What followed the death of the veteran Sangh leader was somehow again palpably medieval. Atal Behari Vajpayee became Jana Sangh president to the disappointment of Balraj Madhok who thought himself to be the rightful successor of the late leader. Soon a bitter war started among the top hats of the Jana Sangh as a result of Upadhyayas death in 1968. This raged for the next five years or so. And when LK Advani took over as the partys president, he expelled Madhok from Jana Sangh in 1973. And ever since Madhok lived in near anonymity till he died in Delhi a little over two years ago from now, prompting Prime Minister Narendra Modi besides other top BJP leaders to visit his New Rajendra Nagar residence.

A lane leading to Madhoks abode in New Delhi has been named after him. And, thus, renaming Mughalsarai after Upadhyaya is in keeping with the Sangh Parivars wont to honour its dead.

Yet, this comes with a sense of deja vu. Today Advani, who once sent Madhok into virtual oblivion, has been pushed to the sidelines of the party that he presided over since its Jana Sangh days as also through a part of its later incarnation as the Bharatiya Janata Party. And strangely this is courtesy his younger party peers like Modi and Shah.

Hence, the latest turn that Mughalsarai has undergone points to a kind of medieval instincts and mores of politics. These are exactly like those that were once rampant among the Mughal royalty and princes of yore. Sadly, this is what still persists while only the persona has changed.

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Bengaluru:

Muthuvel Karunanidhi - an excellent orator, a brilliant scriptwriter and a shrewd politician, is a shining example of communication skills driving a person to life-long power, glory and positions of power. In politics, craftiness is a quality that can make the difference between success and failure. And this skill and ability, 94-year-old Karunanidhi had in plenty.

Karunanidhis craftiness came to the fore in 1969 when he outfoxed V R Nedunchezhiyan, the number two to the then chief minister C Annadurai and became the Chief Minister of the state and captured the DMK that he ran till he breathed his last.

Ironically, Karunanidhi passed away even as the DMK was celebrating his half-century as head of the party, the longest tenure any Indian has had as a head of a recognised political party. Although he was not seen in public for the past over three years or so due to ailments, he maintained a tight grip over the party.

Over the years, Karunanidhi survived two major splits and held the party together at trying times when the DMK was out of power for 12-long years between 1977 and 1989. Now, this responsibility falls on his political heir MK Stalin.

Also Read | DMK chief Karunanidhi is no more, leaves behind rich legacy

Karunanidhi, seen as a wily old fox of Indian politics, grabbed an opportunity to influence national politics and sided with Indira Gandhi and supported her minority government that she was running after the Great Split in the Congress party of 1969.

In 1971, he decisively won in Tamil Nadu but subsequently fell foul with Indira Gandhi who dismissed his government in January 1976 on corruption charges. Karunanidhi had opposed the imposition of emergency and Gandhi was only looking for an excuse to dismiss his government. Gandhi saw in MG Ramachandran, whom Karunanidhi had ousted fearing a threat to his own position, a natural ally.

In the elections in 1977, Karunanidhi was trounced and MGR became the chief minister and confined the former to the opposition benches till 1987. As long as MGR lived, Karunanidhi had to play a waiting game and only after MGRs death and the consequent splits and power struggle in MGRs AIADMK could Karunanidhi enter the corridors of power again and became the chief minister in 1989. But in two years time, the Chandrashekhar government, supported by the Congress, dismissed Karunanidhis government again, this time ostensibly for Karunanidhis pro-LTTE actions.

Read More | Karunanidhi LIVE Updates | Family, supporters mourn loss of DMK chief Kalaignar

In the elections that ensued in 1991, Karunanidhi was battered and Jayalalithaa became the chief minister for the first time.

Since then, Tamil Nadu has seen cyclical alternating governments headed by Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa, till Karunanidhi lost an election successively in 2016. Jayalalithaa broke the anti-incumbency factor and got re-elected as the chief minister, a feat no one had accomplished other than MGR in Tamil Nadu.

Karunanidhi losing touch with voters

Party leaders and cadres wanted to see tata (grandfather) as many refer to him fondly in the Chief Ministers chair again. Karunanidhi too was wanting to become the Chief Minister again and was confident too that it was his turn in 2016, but Jayalalithaa outfoxed the old fox by a strategy that was so obviously visible but none could see. She ensured that the vote against her split in many directions and defeated DMK. The vote difference between the AIADMK and DMK was wafer thin and the election could have gone either way.

Was Kalaignar losing touch? The younger elements in the party wanted Karunanidhi to step aside for his elder son MK Stalin.

Karunanidhis death has placed the responsibility of leading the party formally on his son Stalin.

His long list of achievements and people-oriented welfare centric governance, cannot, however, hide his misplaced support to the LTTE. It was one of his greatest follies, opined a political analyst.

Read More | M Karunanidhi: 10 fascinating facts about the towering DMK leader

But equally baffling was Karunanidhis silent inaction during the Genocide of innocent Tamils in North Sri Lanka in 2009 that cost him and his party popularity, said Prof Ramu Manivannan of the Madras University in an assessment of Karunanidhis politics. This is one big setback from which Karunanidhi and DMK have not recovered fully, he said, adding, Karunanidhi was in alliance with the Congress at the Centre then.

In 2016, Jayalalithaa may have succeeded in splitting the votes ranged against her in different directions to pave the way for her stupendous victory breaking the cyclical nature of electoral history in Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhis defeat was also largely attributed to his failure to rope in Captain Vijayakanth to his fold, which would have given the DMK a momentum earlier on in the campaign.

Also, Karunanidhi could do little to blunt Jayalalithaas charge that the DMK was in the central government for a long time and did nothing for Tamil Nadu. The charge stuck. A sign of losing touch, perhaps, of Karunanidhi. Had he declared Stalin as the Chief Ministerial candidate, the outcome could have been different, felt another analyst.

Another negative aspect of Karunanidhis reign is the corruption taintwith the Sarkaria Commission dubbing his regime as indulging in scientific corruption, and more recently the 2G scam and sundry other scandals involving Karunanidhis daughter Kanimozhi, DMKs dalit poster boy A Raja, former union Telecom Minister Dayanidhi Maran and the like. To be fair, A Raja and Kanimozhi have come out clean in the 2G case and unlike Jayalalithaa, Karunanidhi was never convicted even in a single case.

Able administrator, flexible and open to ideas

On the positive side, Karunanidhi was an able administrator, who was both accessible as well as flexible. An industrialist who dealt with DMK and AIADMK governments recalled with Karunanidhi, you could put across your viewpoint, differ with him and argue. His answer may still be no, but you can speak your mind out. With Amma, you know what will happen.

The five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi personally never lost any election he contested, ever since he won for the first time in assembly elections in 1951. He has won all the 13 elections he contested in, the latest being the 2016 general elections from Tiruvarur.

The Karunanidhi versus Jayalalithaa political rivalry that dramatised Tamil Nadu politics has had its shameful lows too.

If Jayalalithaa was manhandled inside assembly during the DMK regime and corruption cases were hurled against her, she took full revenge by getting Tamil Nadu police constables to pull out Karunanidhi from his house at midnight and threw him in central jail. The rivalry only got bitter as the time passed.

With Jayalalithaa gone, Karunanidhis dream of seeing his party in power could well be around the corner. For one, the DMK succession plan is clearKarunanidhi had anointed Stalin as his political successor and declared it several times leaving none in doubt who would succeed him as partys leader.

Karunanidhis inability to control his family forces and his inability to master the English language and his anti-Hindi stance perhaps robbed him of a greater role in national politics. He, however, played a key supporting role in national politics and slept with both the Congress and the BJP by becoming a member of the UPA and the NDA dispensations at the Centre.

But he maintained his toughness that came with his own political strength within the stateunyielding in the state and yet cornering lucrative ministerial positions at the Centre. He often used the threat to withdraw support to a telling effect, as results showed.

But for all the Tamil identity politics he professed, and power he wielded at the Centre, Karunanidhi accomplished very little for the state as compared to Jayalalithaa, who spoke little but achieved more, Prof Manivannan felt.

Karunanidhis contributions in the literary field  with scores of poems, novels, plays, articles and communication tools propagating ideologies made him a natural choice and recipient of the honorific title of Kalaignar or loosely translated  Scholar of Arts.

Easily, the tallest TN leader today

Easily, one of the tallest political leaders from Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi straddled the world of cinema, literature, poetry and politics for over seven decades and was in the thick of the political and social action from his childhood  when he was just 14 organising local youth into a reformist organisation. Karunanidhi was drawn towards the ideology of Periyar (EV Ramasamy) who founded Dravida Kazhagam. He shot into prominence when he organised anti-Hindi agitation in 1937-40.

Karunanidhi had recognised the true power of communications  he used to bring out a handwritten newspaper Manavar Nesan and later formed the first student wing of the Dravidian movement called Tamil Nadu Manavar Mandram. A publication he began as a monthly, Murasoli, is now a weekly journal and the official organ of the DMK.

Karunanidhi hitched his political fortunes with CN Annadurai when he broke away from DK to float DMK in 1949. In 1957 he entered the assembly and soon became the party treasurer and in 1962 became the deputy leader of the opposition. When DMK won the 1967 assembly polls, Annadurai made him a minister. When Annadurai passed away in 1969, Karunanidhi outsmarted all the others to emerge as the chief minister.

Karunanidhi brooked no nonsense from any of the party leaders and ensured that his son Stalins route was clear. Vaiko, a fiery speaker, was perceived as a threat to Stalin in the party and ousted. His preference for family and blood relatives for position in party and power, in the state and at Centre, was a point that Jayalalithaa exploited to the hilt in 2011, 2014 general elections and later in the 2016 assembly elections, said a professor of political science in a government college.

Bureaucrats who have seen him up close credit him with native intelligence, flexibility and an openness to ideas.

Karunanidhi is survived by his two wives Dayalu, Rajathi- sons M.K.Muthu, Alagiri, Stalin, M.K.Tamilarasu and daughters S.Selvi and Kanimozhi and grandchildren.

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His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa yesterday paid a visit to the Royal Special Force. He was accompanied by Royal Guard Commander Brigadier Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa and Royal Guard Special Force Commander Major Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa. HM the King was welcomed on arrival by Chief of Staff of Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) Lieutenant General Dhiab bin Saqr Al Nuaimi, the Royal Special Force Commander and officers.

HM King Hamad paid tribute to the Royal Special Force personnel for their bravery, high morale and dedication in performing their duties. He praised the efforts of all BDF personnel, alongside their brethren in the Arab Coalition Force, in the Saudi-led Restoring Hope Operation.

He lauded their contribution to deterring terrorism, backing legitimacy in Yemen and providing humanitarian aid to the Yemeni people.

He described them as the bulwark of the nation and its comprehensive growth, commending their strong patriotism. HM the King asked the Commander and senior officers of the Royal Special Force to convey his greetings to all personnel, wishing them constant success.
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The Cabinet yesterday, chaired by His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier, ordered the Bahrain Hajj Mission to provide all necessary services and facilities to Bahraini Haj pilgrims to enable them to perform their rituals.

The officials concerned were asked to take measures to ensure that Bahraini pilgrims dont face any obstacles during their stay at the holy sites.

HRH Premier lauded the constant care provided by Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Saman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, for Haj pilgrims, hailing the commendable and internationally-appreciated tremendous efforts exerted by the Saudi government in the service of Islam and Muslims.
With over one million mobile phones being imported to the Kingdom, Bahrains addiction to the gadget is beyond any reckoning.

According to data revealed by the Customs Department, the Kingdom imported 526,182 mobile phones and communications equipment from 10 countries valued over BD51 million in the first half of 2018. However, when compared to last year the numbers have gone down by 12 per cent. The Kingdom imported 603,429 mobile phones during the first half of 2017.

The data showed maximum mobile phones were imported from China (55.1pc), followed by Vietnam (37.1pc) and other countries. Among mobile phones sold, Samsung led the pack followed by iPhone, Huawei and other brands.
Bahrainis have been urged to be careful of what they read and believe on social media as a flurry of fake news released by Iranian agents could make its way to local social media circles in order to influence the upcoming parliamentary elections. Iranian propaganda teams are expected to try to influence the upcoming elections by releasing fake news on social media, according to an election observation organisation.

Integrity for Election Observation, an organisation under the umbrella of Bahrain Human Rights Watch Society (BHRWS) in collaboration with London based Gulf European Centre for Human Rights will be monitoring social media for fake news and other disruptive content from Iran aimed at influencing the elections.

The organisation will monitor the social media sites and compile and report all violations. Bahrain Human Rights Watch Society General Secretary Faisal Fulad told Tribune that the interference from Iran is expected to come in different forms.

They are going to use many different methods to interfere with the elections. There will be direct ways such as preventing and threatening the people from going to vote with the help of their partners in Bahrain.
Despite making a key discovery on the characteristics of multiple sclerosis by Bahrain-based researchers, the chances of conceiving an improved treatment plan is still a few years away.

A team of medical researchers from Princess Al Jawhara Centre, made a key discovery about the local characteristic of the disease last year, however, there is still a long way to go before an updated treatment plan can be devised, one of the senior researchers said.

Director of the Princess Al Jawhara Center for Molecular Medicine Moiz Bakhiet told Tribune that the discovery is an important one because of it provides essential and specific information on characteristic of the disease as prevalent in Bahrain.
Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al Jubeir yesterday criticised Canadas calls to free arrested civil society activists as a position built on misleading information, and said his country would not tolerate any interference in its own affairs. The kingdom of Saudi Arabia does not interfere in the internal affairs of other states and it wont accept any attempt to interfere in our internal affairs, Jubeir said in remarks on his Twitter account. We deal with that with all firmness. Describing Canadas position was puzzling, he said that those held in Saudi Arabia were subject to Saudi legal laws that guarantees their rights. Riyadh yesterday recalled its ambassador from Canada and gave the Canadian ambassador 24 hours to leave. The Saudi government also banned new trade with Canada, although it was unclear if it would affect existing annual Saudi-Canadian trade of nearly $4 billion and a $13bn defence contract.
What happens when leading Western nations abandon their human rights commitments and even act to undermine the institutions of international justice? Authoritarian, corrupt and sectarian regimes claim the green light to trample their citizens rights with impunity. Myanmars Rohingya have endured policies of ethnic cleansing and genocide, forcing about 700,000 refugees into Bangladesh. In the nearby Indian state of Assam, some four million people, mostly Muslims, were recently excluded from the state register, with fears that mass detention camps are under construction as a step towards expelling them altogether. Assam has an ugly history of communal violence, with hate speech increasingly normalized among the political classes, and alarming tendencies to denounce all Muslims as terrorists and illegal immigrants. A state deputy for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party chillingly warned that if these Rohingyas and Bangladeshi illegal immigrants do not leave India respectfully, then they should be shot and eliminated. Not long ago, Narendra Modi was viewed as a fringe Hindu hardliner whose inflammatory rhetoric should not be taken seriously. Today, he is feted worldwide as Indias prime minister, despite communal violence since his BJPs 2014 rise to power surging by 28 per cent. Such escalation risks a return to the ultraviolence of past decades, when thousands were murdered in appalling bouts of bloodletting between Hindu, Muslim and Sikh communities. Cow protection vigilante mobs have recently brutally lynched dozens of non-Hindus following spurious rumors that they were observed preparing beef. The UN describes the Rohingya genocide as a textbook example of ethnic cleansing. Shouldnt such a conclusion automatically necessitate some form of global intervention? Yet has Donald Trump ever mentioned the Rohingya? Does he know who they are? Meanwhile, other Western leaders express little more appetite than Trump for imposing consequences. The mechanisms for conflict resolution and justice lie in tatters. Chronic tensions between Russia and the West mean that meaningful UN Security Council resolutions are inevitably vetoed, with China discretely blocking measures against regimes complicit in war crimes. Trump, meanwhile, is virulently hostile to multilateral action and international institutions, cutting funding to various branches of the UN and undercutting Americas closest allies. It isnt just that the post-World War II order is fundamentally broken; few observers are even aware of this damage, let alone applying serious thought about what a fair and robust new global framework would look like. To paraphrase the poet T S Eliot: This is the way that international justice dies; not with a bang, but a whimper. The world has never been entirely free of low-level wars. However, civil conflicts are increasingly sucking in multiple states, like the overlapping conflicts in Syria and Iraq, which are exacerbated by sectarian paramilitaries, Turkish, Iranian and Russian interference, and heightened sectarian tensions in Lebanon  not to mention the prospect of Israeli intervention. Across Syria, Iraq and Lebanon, states have ceded control of huge territories to transnational Iran-backed militias with their own hostile agendas. From Mali to Libya to Nigeria, marauding extremists circulate freely, as expansive regions fall outside of the states remit. A perfect storm of conflicts straddling Somalia, Sudan and the Central African Republic likewise threaten unimaginably vast areas with perpetual instability, lacking even a veneer of effective government. Central American statelets are destabilized by narcotics networks mightier than the nominal regimes over which they often exercise control. Chronic conflict in Afghanistan continues to rock Central Asia. At what point do these pluralized conflicts reach a critical mass, causing an inexorable epidemic of state collapse to radiate out across wider regions already weakened by mass refugee movements, arms smuggling, terrorism and spillover communal tensions? Is the world ready to coexist alongside a plurality of paramilitary, separatist and terrorist forces, which  on the model of Daeshs Caliphate  themselves mutate into volatile quasi-states? Mature governance arises not through revolutions or pre-prepared templates imported from the West. Flourishing nation-states emerge after decades of patient nurturing of accountable institutions, ensuring supremacy of the rule of law. Years of work are lost overnight when anti-democratic forces capture or co-opt the state. The past decade has seen dozens of states succumbing to rigid autocracy, sectarian polarization or chronic fragility  partly a consequence of international institutions abandoning their traditional roles of cultivating good governance, economic development and democratization. The state system is also menaced from within the citadel of the Western world. Malevolent meddlers like Steve Bannon are working to unite and empower Europes far-right movements, which are emboldened by the Trump surge, with authoritarian populists already in power in Hungary, Austria, Poland and elsewhere. These neo-fascists are stampeding their way into government by fomenting panic and hostility against demonized Muslim refugees. Liberal Western values have been outflanked and thrown onto the defensive by these far-right forces of darkness, who have hijacked the political agenda. Likewise in India, Modi is only celebrated by some as a reasonable, progressive statesman because his ruling party has cultivated and mobilized figures 100 times as radical as he. With rudderless Western states turning inwards and destabilized developing states exploding outwards, the international community is sleepwalking into a dangerous and unpredictable era, where the nation-state system is no longer pre-eminent and the mechanisms of international justice are non-existent. Such tendencies arent inevitable or irreversible, but decision-makers must wake up to the threat, act decisively to stop the rot, and restore global capacity for collective action. As Europe plunged toward the senseless, ruinous World War I, Britains Foreign Secretary Edward Grey commented: The lamps are going out all over Europe, we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime. As the lamps of liberal democracy and global justice are snuffed out around the world, do our leaders have the foresight to rescue us from catastrophe?
A Japanese court has begun a trial filed by a man who is seeking compensation from the government after being forced to undergo sterilization under the now-defunct Eugenic Protection Law.

The 75-year-old Tokyo man says he was forcibly sterilized without his knowledge in 1957. He is among others who are suing the government. The man is seeking about 270,000 dollars in compensation.

In his opening statement on Monday, the plaintiff told the Tokyo District Court that he is sorry that he had kept the operation secret from his wife for 40 years until shortly before her death. He said he wants the government to understand how people were hurt by the inhumane law that deprived them of their reproductive functions.

The state has said it will reject the man's claim, and will provide more details in the trial.

Before the law was abolished in 1996, about 16,500 people are said to have undergone forced sterilizations on the grounds that they had disabilities. Compensation suits against the state have been filed with 4 courts throughout the country.
Imported bluefin tuna are flooding in Tokyo's Tsukiji fish market, amid sluggish domestic supplies, including of renowned tuna from Oma, Aomori Prefecture, due to tighter fishing controls.

Overseas-landed tuna are now taking center stage at the leading fish market in Japan. It is now not rare for them to be sold at high prices for high-end sushi restaurants. "It's a situation that we've never seen before," a market worker said.

In particular, arrivals of unfrozen southern bluefin tuna from Australia and New Zealand are surging. The tuna are "rich in fat" as it is now winter in the Southern Hemisphere, and they "arrive fresh, thanks to shipments by air," a Tsukiji wholesaler said.

The number of southern bluefin tuna shipped to the Tsukiji market jumped about 1.5-fold from a year earlier to 3,780 in July 1-27, a peak figure for recent years. They fetched around 2,000 yen per kilogram in auctions in late July, as low as popular bigeye tuna.

Bluefin tuna from Boston, many of which weigh over 200 kilograms, are attracting demand as an alternative to the fish caught in the Tsugaru Strait between Aomori and the northernmost landmass of Hokkaido and landed at ports facing the strait including Oma. About 180 Boston tuna were sold at the Tsukiji market in July alone.
A 10-meter-long whale washed ashore at a beach in Kamakura City on Sunday, reports the Sankei Shimbun

At around 2:30 p.m., users of the Yuigahama Beach tipped off police after seeing the whale drifting in the waves just off shore. It was confirmed dead in the water, according to the report.

According to the Enoshima Aquarium, located in Fujisawa City, the animal is a baleen whale. With the wind and waves being strong at the time of the discovery, personnel did not approach the whale.
Japan's Crown Prince Naruhito is set to make an official visit to France on Sept. 7-15.

The schedule of the trip, his fourth to the European country, was reported to Tuesday's cabinet meeting. This will be his first official visit to France. Crown Prince Naruhito last toured the nation in September 1991.

The French government offered an invitation for the visit, with this year marking the 160th anniversary of the conclusion of the Japan-France amity and commerce treaty.

Crown Princess Masako, who is receiving treatment for stress-related illness, will not accompany her husband, due to possible negative impacts on her health from the long-haul trip, informed sources said.

According to the Imperial Household Agency, Crown Prince Naruhito will arrive in Lyon, southeastern France, on a government jet on Sept. 7, and make a day trip to a winery in the nearby Bourgogne region and a research facility in Grenoble, also southeastern France.
More than 70,000 people have been taken to hospitals across Japan since late April with symptoms of heatstroke.

The Fire and Disaster Management Agency says the number is the largest on record for a single year.

The Agency says 71,266 people were rushed to hospital between the end of April and last Sunday. The number is nearly double that of a similar period last year.

The figure has already surpassed the previous record of more than 58,000 between June and September 2013.

The Agency also says, in the week through Sunday, more than 13,000 people were taken to hospital due to heatstroke.

Thirteen of them died, and more than 4,300 people were admitted.

Nearly half of those taken to hospital were aged 65 or older.

The internal affairs ministry advises people to use air conditioners properly and to keep well hydrated. Officials warn that elderly people need to take special care, as they can become dehydrated without realizing.

They are also asking people to call an ambulance quickly if they see someone having a seizure or losing consciousness.
Kyoto is Japanas cultural capitol and home to over 2000 temples & shrines to visit, but itas hard to know which ones to see when you only have a few days. This time, Kansai resident Kevin Riley and I debate two of the most visited zen Buddhist temples: Kinkakuji vs Ginkakuji

Kiyomizu-dera - Kyoto -  - 8K

TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful - Oct 28

Located in the heart of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is one of Japan's most famous and celebrated temples thanks to its iconic 13-meter high wooden stage with a unique view. Located in the heart of Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is one of Japan's most famous and celebrated temples thanks to its iconic 13-meter high wooden stage with a unique view.

Kyoto to Hokkaido by Ferry | $285 Quaint Deluxe Cabin

Solo Travel Japan - Oct 28

I took Shin Nihonkai Ferry from Maizuru (Kyoto) to Otaru (Hokkaido). It was a comfortable journey. I took Shin Nihonkai Ferry from Maizuru (Kyoto) to Otaru (Hokkaido). It was a comfortable journey.

Typhoon Malou heading for Ogasawara Islands

NHK - Oct 28

Typhoon Malou is heading for Japan's Ogasawara Islands in the Pacific. People there are advised to be on alert for strong winds and high waves. Typhoon Malou is heading for Japan's Ogasawara Islands in the Pacific. People there are advised to be on alert for strong winds and high waves.

Japan eases restaurant COVID restrictions

NHK - Oct 25

Most anti-coronavirus restrictions on restaurants and bars were lifted in Japan on Monday as new daily infections continue to drop across the country. Most anti-coronavirus restrictions on restaurants and bars were lifted in Japan on Monday as new daily infections continue to drop across the country.

Tokyo Disneyland to host Halloween event for first time in two years

republicworld.com - Oct 25

After the park's operator postponed special events because of the spread of COVID-19, Tokyo Disneyland had its first Halloween programme in two years on Monday. After the park's operator postponed special events because of the spread of COVID-19, Tokyo Disneyland had its first Halloween programme in two years on Monday.

Tourists gradually returning to Kyoto

NHK - Oct 25

In Japan, coronavirus restrictions are being lifted across the nation. In Japan, coronavirus restrictions are being lifted across the nation.

Solo Hiking Japan's Forgotten Forest

Tokyo Lens - Oct 25

A Japanese forest and trails that were forgotten long ago. There are no blogs, no maps, and nothing that shows where they lead. Today we camp out in Japan, and hike them to see where they take us. A Japanese forest and trails that were forgotten long ago. There are no blogs, no maps, and nothing that shows where they lead. Today we camp out in Japan, and hike them to see where they take us.

Yamanote Line in Tokyo partly closed on weekend

NHK - Oct 24

Train services on part of the inner loop of Tokyo's Yamanote Line have been suspended for two days due to renovation work at Shibuya Station. Train services on part of the inner loop of Tokyo's Yamanote Line have been suspended for two days due to renovation work at Shibuya Station.

Beaches covered with pumice stones in Okinawa

NHK - Oct 24

Large volumes of pumice stones apparently from the eruption of an undersea volcano have washed ashore on islands in southwestern Japan, turning sandy beaches into mounds of gray rubble. Large volumes of pumice stones apparently from the eruption of an undersea volcano have washed ashore on islands in southwestern Japan, turning sandy beaches into mounds of gray rubble.

Semi Private Stylish Capsule on the Ferry | Kagoshima to Osaka Japan

Solo Travel Japan - Oct 23

I took Ferry Sunflower from Kagoshima to Osaka. I booked a stylish capsule cabin this time and it was cozy and comfortable. I took Ferry Sunflower from Kagoshima to Osaka. I booked a stylish capsule cabin this time and it was cozy and comfortable.

Tokyo, Osaka restaurants set to resume late-night hours as COVID-19 ebbs

Nikkei - Oct 22

Japanese tipplers will be able to return to their normal carousing on Monday when pubs in the capital and Osaka resume full operating hours as the number of new coronavirus infections continues to drop. Japanese tipplers will be able to return to their normal carousing on Monday when pubs in the capital and Osaka resume full operating hours as the number of new coronavirus infections continues to drop.

Tokyo Disney parks to extend operating hours

Japan Times - Oct 22

The operator of Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea said Thursday that it will extend the operating hours of the theme parks, beginning next month, and resume the Dreamlights nighttime parade in Disneyland on Nov. 1. The operator of Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea said Thursday that it will extend the operating hours of the theme parks, beginning next month, and resume the Dreamlights nighttime parade in Disneyland on Nov. 1.

Reviving Japans legendary ninja clan to boost local tourism

South China Morning Post - Oct 21

The Japanese city of Odawara, in Kanagawa prefecture, was once home to one of the countrys largest ninja clans, the Fuma. The Japanese city of Odawara, in Kanagawa prefecture, was once home to one of the countrys largest ninja clans, the Fuma.

Meet Transfers Cancun Airport

newsonjapan.com - Oct 21

With more than 20 years of professional experience, the Mexican company has developed a service that not only gives comfort and Excellency, but also allows creating amazing experiences beyond the expected ones in a place full of genuineness as well as culture and nature. With more than 20 years of professional experience, the Mexican company has developed a service that not only gives comfort and Excellency, but also allows creating amazing experiences beyond the expected ones in a place full of genuineness as well as culture and nature.

Akita's Kanto event held on smaller scale

NHK - Oct 18

Performers balancing long bamboo poles arrayed with paper lanterns displayed their skills in front of Akita Station in northern Japan on Sunday. Performers balancing long bamboo poles arrayed with paper lanterns displayed their skills in front of Akita Station in northern Japan on Sunday.
Senator Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim representing Kwara South has disclosed that lawmakers belonging to the Parliamentary Support Group, PSG, all...

Senator Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim representing Kwara South has disclosed that lawmakers belonging to the Parliamentary Support Group, PSG, allegedly received the sum of $1 million each to impeach the Senate President, Bukola Saraki and his Deputy, Ike Ekweremadu.

The lawmaker made this disclosure in an interview with newsmen at the National Assembly.





Senator Ibrahim, who is a member of the Pro-Saraki group, also protested the invasion of the National Assembly by officers of the Department of State Services, DSS, and the Police Force.





He said, I can authoritatively tell you that those senators behind the desecration of the National Assembly collected $1m each to impeach the Senate President and his Deputy. You can quote me anywhere on this.





In a related development, another prominent member of the Pro-Saraki group, Senator Dino Melaye representing Kogi West district, accused the National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole, of collecting signatures of lawmakers with the aim of effecting a leadership change in the upper chamber of the National Assembly.





Melaye, while bringing his colleagues up to speed on the plot by members of the PSG, said the APC National Chairman was in a meeting with pro-Buhari senators to collect signatures for Saraki and Ekweremadus impeachment.





The Chairman of APC is currently meeting with some APC Senators. As I speak, we understand he is collecting signature for the Senate Presidents impeachment.




Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has reacted to blockage of the entrance of the National Assembly by operatives of the Department of...

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has reacted to blockage of the entrance of the National Assembly by operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS.





The Waziri of Adamawa described the action of security operatives as undemocratic and illegal.





In a statement issued by his Media Office, the Presidential aspirant called on All those involved to put Nigeria first and abandon this madness.





The statement reads, The attention of former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar has been drawn to an illegal and undemocratic attempt by fascist forces to break into the National Assembly for the purpose of furthering the agenda to force a change in the Nigerian Senates leadership.





The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, guarantees both the independence of the Legislature and Separation of Powers. Nigeria is a democracy not a military dictatorship and we the people will never return to tyranny.





Abubakar called on, President Muhammadu Buhari and acting President, Yemi Osinbajo to stop hiding behind one finger and live up to their responsibility of upholding the constitution and law and order, which they swore to on May 29, 2015.





We warned that if what occurred in Benue last week was not checked on time, it would escalate to the federal level. Today we are seeing that warning in play.





The acting President, being himself a Professor of Law, ought to know that setting such a precedent is an invitation to anarchy.





There are better uses for our security forces at this time than to lay siege to our citadels of democracy. Our people are languishing in the midst of unprecedented insecurity and nationwide killings. To thus deploy our security forces in this present manner whilst Nigerians face these challenges is an abdication of responsibility to say the least.




Nigerias Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo on Tuesday sacked the Director-General of the Department of State Service, Lawal Daura.

Nigerias Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo on Tuesday sacked the Director-General of the Department of State Service, Lawal Daura.

Operatives of the DSS had early this morning invaded the National Assembly, stopping lawmakers and others from gaining entrance.





Daura was sacked yesterday for allegedly denting the image and democratic credentials of the Muhammadu Buhari administration.

Denting President Muhammadu Buharis image

Overruling Buhari, Osinbajo on crucial matters, such as the $43.45million recovered at Osborne Towers in Ikoyi, Lagos and confirmation of Acting EFCC Chairman Ibrahim Magu

Alleged disrespect for court orders on ex-NSA Sambo Dasuki and Ibrahim el-Zakzaky as well as the detention of Jones Abiri

Determining who to see (or pray with) Buhari

Unauthorised deployment of operatives / sting operations against Supreme Court Justices, National Assembly, ex-DSS boss Kayode Are

Alleged interference in the affairs of other security agencies, especially the EFCC

Alleged refusal to take orders from NSA Gen. Mohammed Babagana Monguno

Row over freedom for Chibok and Dapchi girls

Romance with National Assembly officers

Alleged hostility to the media

Usurpation of anti-graft agencies functions

Matthew Seiyefa, the most senior director at the DSS, took over the organisation.Acting President Yemi Osinbajo fired Daura for deploying DSS operatives to lay siege to the National Assembly.The deployment was considered by the Presidency to be contemptuous of Acting President Yemi Osinbajo.The DSS was suspected to have worked with some principal officers of the National Assembly to embarrass the Presidency.Daura is believed to be very close to a principal officer of the National Assembly, which has been at loggerheads with the Executive.The siege to the National Assembly came few hours after Osinbajo brokered an understanding for the lawmakers to reconvene and consider the supplementary budget to avoid a shutdown of the government.Neither Buhari nor Osinbajo was informed of the deployment of DSS operatives, it was learnt.The Presidency is said to have ordered Dauras detention. He is also to be disarmed.The police and other security agencies were combing Dauras office and residences as at the time of filing this report.More heads may roll in DSS and other agencies implicated in the siege to the National Assembly.Daura was consumed yesterday by the political intrigues in the country. He was fired with immediate effect .Daura was summoned to the Presidential Villa by the Acting President a few minutes before his sack was announced.He was directed to hand over to the most senior officer of the DSS until further notice.The Acting Presidents Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr Laolu Akande, in a terse statement, said:The Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has directed the termination of the appointment of the Director General, State Security Service, Lawal Musa Daura, with immediate effect.Mr Daura has been directed to hand over to the most senior officer of the State Security Service until further notice.Daura was joined at the Villa meeting with the Acting President by Inspector-General of Police Ibrahim Idris, who arrived at about 12.35 p.m. Daura got in around 1.15p.m.Osinbajo described the blockade of the National Assembly by operatives of the DSS as unauthorised.He condemned it as a gross violation of constitutional order, rule of law and all accepted notions of law and order.He said that the unlawful act, which was done without the knowledge of the Presidency, was completely unacceptable.The statement said Osinbajo assured Nigerians that all persons within the law enforcement apparatus who participated in this travesty will be identified and subjected to appropriate disciplinary action.Daura, 64, was appointed to head the agency on July 2, 2015 to replace Ita Ekpeyong. He worked and retired from the agency before his appointment by Presidnt Muhammadu Buhari.An unusual security blanket was thrown around the National Assembly Complex in Abuja early yesterday by men of the DSS.National Assembly employees, legislative aides and reporters who arrived before 7 am met stern-faced operatives who barred them from the facility.Shortly before 8 am when our correspondent visited the National Assembly Complex, about 20 policemen were at the outer gate, with only very few bearing AK-47 rifles.At the second gate, the situation was different, with nine masked gun-wielding DSS operatives in black fatigues, along with several other DSS personnel in suits and regular clothing firmly blocking the entrance.The armed men who also had black face masks and hand gloves carried IMI Tavor Tar-21 assault rifles produced by Israeli Military Industries.Three Ford Ranger SUVs without number plates were packed in front of the gate, ostensibly to disallow anyone from driving in.A young man who was making a video recording with his mobile phone promptly stopped after receiving verbal threats from one of the masked DSS personnel who said: If I catch that your phone now, I go march am.Initially, everyone, including senators and members of the House of Representatives were being barred from entering the complex, but around 8am, 47-year old Honourable Boma Goodhead, militant leader Asari Dokubos sister, defied the security operatives and became the first lawmaker to enter the complex.After the entry of Hon. Goodhead, a PDP member who represents Asalga/Akulga Federal Constituency of Rivers State, several senators and House members, such as Reps Teejay Yusuf (Kogi), Kingsley Chinda (Rivers), Agbedi Frederick (Bayelsa), Razaq Atunwa (Kwara) and Joseph Akinlaja (Ondo) entered the facility.Senators who entered by 8.15 am include Ben Murray Bruce, Ubale Shittu, Isa Hamma Misau, Biodun Olujimi and Rafiu Ibrahim.They walked in through the second gate with their Identification Cards (IDs) on their chests. All their vehicles were forced to stop and park outside the gate unlike the usual practice whereby their drivers drove straight in to their chambers.Lawal Daura was fired yesterday as Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) for embarrasing the government, a source said.The source, who pleaded not to be named because of the sensitivity of the matter, listed 11 reasons why Daura got the push.They are:The source said: The DG, DSS had his cup full in the past few weeks when the President detested some of his actions based on intelligence report.In fact, the President had agreed on a two-week deadline to remove him. The invasion of the National Assembly by DSS operatives hastened Dauras exit.The President got an instant briefing from Acting President Yemi Osinbajo. Buhari also had the privilege to watch the siege on television., the source said, adding:Buhari felt insulted that Daura drafted DSS operatives to the National Assembly without any covert or overt instructions. He, therefore, directed Osinbajo to fire the DG.The source gave the details of how Daura ran the DSS to the embarrassment of the Presidency.He said: What embarrassed the Presidency most was the affront by the sacked DG in overruling the President on some issues. When AVM JON Ode Committee was set up by the President to probe the $2.1b arms deals, he faulted the composition of the panel, which had no representative from the DSS. He never forgave all those who made input into the composition of the panel.The impunity with which he overruled Buhari on the eligibility of Ibrahim Magu as a nominee for the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC) with ambiguous security reports shocked the government. The Senate relied on DSS reports to reject Magu twice. There was obvious poor cohesion in this administration.When the President appointed VP Osinbajo to head a panel to probe the $43.45million recovered at Osborne Towers in Ikoyi, Lagos, Daura disagreed with some recommendations in the committees report and raised a curious memo citing why security funds cannot be probed. At a point, Buhari alluded publicly to Dauras representation.Responding to a question, the source added that the saddest moment for Buhari and his deputy was the unauthorised sting operations on the homes of Supreme Court justices by DSS operatives. A perplexed Buhari could not justify the arrest of the justices when a former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Mahmud Mohammed met with him on the incident.There was no intelligence report made available to the President or VP Osinbajo; no pre-operation briefing, and when he was confronted, Daura reminded Buhari that there was a presidential verbal directive that he should do anything to fight corruption.Although it was convenient to overrule Daura but the President allowed the judges to go through the judicial process instead of using fiat to reverse the DSS.The same impunity applies to the disobedience of court orders on ex-NSA Sambo Dasuki and Ibrahim el-Zakzaky and detention of a journalist, Jones Abiri. Daura cited security reasons for his action.After his long medical trip to London, the President once asked Daura if Dasuki was still in detention. He justified Dasukis detention by claiming that the ex-NSA was only freed on one of the matters in court. He said he had more legal hurdles to cross.When there was too much noise on El-Zakyzakys prolonged detention without trial, the DSS quickly arranged a parade of the old man to prove that he was doing well.The raid of a former DG of DSS, Col. Kayode Are, in an inhuman manner was said to have smacked of vengeance because Daura was in service when Are led the agency.The 2018 International Press Institute(IPI) World Congress in June was expected to fetch some mileage for President Muhammadu Buhari but the President was shocked when IPI Executive Board Chair John Yearwood demanded the release of a detained journalist, Jones Abiri in Nigeria by the DSS since July 2016.Some ministers denied that any journalist was detained until the picture became clearer that Abiri was in DSS gulag.The source attributed the removal of Daura to lack of synergy among security agencies, especially between the National Security AdviserHe does not have respect for the National Security Adviser, Gen. Mohammed Babagana Monguno and he refused to report, to him while in office. This caused a huge gap in inter-security agencies coordination.His irreconcilable differences with Monguno got to a stage that a former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Amb. Ayo Oke, had to intervene on why they should forgive each other to ensure a seamless security coordination. The two security chiefs agreed to work together but the truce collapsed, The Nation learnt.Dauras outstanding moments were in securing freedom for Chibok and Dapchi girls, but there were issues on the negotiation, with insurgents.When a journalist with Daily Independent, Tony Ezimakor, reported the issues on the international dimension to the negotiation, the DSS wasted no time in detaining him.In the past two weeks, some organizations had been advertising in some dailies to ask the Presidency to revisit the negotiations.The source also alleged that Daura had allegedly tried to interfere with the investigation of some high-profile suspects, scuh a former Chief of Army Staff, by the EFCC.He was also accused of pettiness on security issues.The crux of the matter between the DSS and EFCC bordered on moves by the former to cause a stay of action on some cases. At a point, the DG became uncomfortable that Magu was not taking instructions from him. The battle line was drawn between Daura and Magu when the EFCC started probing the tenure of a former DG of DSS, Mr. Ita Ekpenyong, and discovered that Ekpenyong left huge funds in the accounts of the agency, contrary to the allegation that he diverted same. Daura felt Magu was after him because he was introduced to the President by the NSA.Even when peace was initiated, he told Magu that his rank was not worth more than an Assistant Superintendent of Police in DSS cadre. Also, he reminded Magu that he wrote the position paper which led to the establishment of EFCC and he coordinated the take-off of the anti-graft commission.It was the same venom with which he opposed the clearance of Magu by the Senate. As if he was not done with the Acting EFCC chairman, an operative stopped him a few weeks ago from joining the President at the mosque at the Presidential Villa based on orders from the DSS headquarters.The same ill-treatment was meted out to Sen. Ali Ndume when he was prevented from praying at the mosque by DSS.As we speak, the accreditation of a journalist with The Punch, Olalekan Adetayo, has not been restored because of security reasons cited by DSS DG in spite of intervention by some media aides.At intelligence meetings with top editors, Daura assumed unusual airs. He once told editors that if he wanted to cause a crisis in Nigeria, he can do it within five minutes.The source explained that in the last few months, the Presidency had been uncomfortable with Daura when it discovered that he had been very close to a principal officer of the National Assembly.President Buhari initially ignored the alleged romance between Daura and the principal officer until it became evident that the officer and his loyalists have more intelligence about government than meet the eye.Our source could not locate where Daura was detained after his arrest. But a reliable source said: The initial steps taken by the Presidency was to disarm Daura because a DG of DSS has a lot of arms and ammunition under his control.He was arrested and detained to enable the police and other agencies to mop up arms and ammunition under his care.All I can tell you is that he is in a safe location.
The Peoples Democratic Party on Monday in Abuja asked President Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress to explain to Nigeria...

The Peoples Democratic Party on Monday in Abuja asked President Muhammadu Buhari and the All Progressives Congress to explain to Nigerians what they know about the N9tn ($25bn) contract scam which it said was allegedly perpetrated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation under their watch.The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr Kola Ologbondiyan, threw the challenge at a press briefing which was held at the national headquarters of the party.The theme of the briefing was, Where Is President Buharis fight against corruption?Ologbondiyan urged the President to come clean and live up to his name as Mr Clean by throwing more light on the N48bn meant for the upkeep of Internally Displaced Persons but which was allegedly diverted by officials of the government.He described the Buhari-led Presidency of providing cover for corrupt elements in government while simultaneously harassing opposition figures under the guise of fighting corruption.He said, The PDP challenges President Buhari to explain why his anti-corruption fight has not been extended to investigate the corruption from the leaked memo detailing alleged underhand oil contracts to the tune of N9tn ($25bn) at the NNPC and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, which are under the direct supervision of President Buhari as Minister of Petroleum Resources. Why has an investigation into this scam been suppressed?The PDP challenges the Buhari Presidency and the APC to explain to the world why his anti-corruption fight has not been extended to the internationally reported diversion and alleged stealing of N18bn out of the N48bn approved by the National Assembly for the rehabilitation of millions of Internally Displaced Persons and rebuilding of six North-East states ravaged by insurgency in the 2017 budget.Can the Presidency and the APC claim to be unaware of the motion by Senator Baba Kaka Garba from Borno Central, who exposed how persons, known to have connections with the APC, fraudulently cornered N1.2bn from the Federal Government under the guise of supplying items to the IDPs?Ologbondiyan also tasked President Buhari in his capacity as substantive minister of petroleum resources to speak up on the secrecy surrounding subsidy payment for Premium Motor Spirit, noting that the N58 fuel tax being paid by Nigerians under his stewardship called for soul-searching.He said, The PDP challenges President Buhari to explain to Nigerians whose interest he is protecting by refusing to allow an independent inquest into the alleged corruption in the handling of the N1.4tn oil subsidy regime allegedly involving officials at the Presidency, particularly those benefiting from alleged N58 hidden tax per liter which Nigerians have continued to bear since the fuel price increased from PDP subsidised cost of N87 to presumably unsubsidised cost of N145.Can the Buhari Presidency and the APC claim to be unaware of the damning report by the United Nations Development Programme, a public document which detailed how officials were using the bulk of the resources meant for the IDPs on contracts that were found to have immensely benefitted officials of the APC government including the sacked Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal?Ologbondiyan said that it was worrisome that President Buhari decided to keep silent on the certificate scams involving key appointees of his government.The PDP fingered Obono-Obla, President Buharis Special Assistant on Prosecution and Chairman, Special Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property and Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun in this regard.The PDP further said the Presidency was seeking to force the reopening of the Senate contrary to Section 12 of the Senate Standing Rules for which the Presidency and the APC are offering lawmakers from both chambers an inducement of the sum of $1m each with the aim of impeaching Senate President Bukola Saraki and Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu.However, the All Progressives Congress has accused the PDP of trying to scuttle the 2019 elections.The APC said this in a statement signed by its Acting National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Yekini Nebena in Abuja, on Monday.Nabena said, The PDP is trying very hard to scuttle the 2019 general election but we will resist it. The party is afraid that it will be defeated at the polls that is why it is using the National Assembly to frustrate efforts to approve funds for INEC.They are merely whipping up sentiments but Nigerians will never believe them.If indeed the opposition party is truly sincere about preparations for the next election, it would not be raising issues against the call by APC lawmakers for the National Assembly to be reconvened.The statement further read, APC believes in the rule of law and will not emulate what the PDP did in its 16 years of reign to manipulate the system. If truly the leadership of the National Assembly is working in the interest of Nigerians, are they not supposed to make the passage of INEC budget a priority? Will proceeding on recess be more important?The APC Spokesman also debunked PDPs allegations that the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration is covering up corruption.He challenged the opposition party to present facts to support its claims.
Mathew Seiyefa, a director of the Department of State Service (DSS) who hails from Bayelsa state, may emerge the acting director-general o...

Mathew Seiyefa, a director of the Department of State Service (DSS) who hails from Bayelsa state, may emerge the acting director-general of the DSS.





Lawal Daura, the head of the agency, was sacked by Acting President Yemi Osinbajo some hours ago.





Osinbajo had asked Daura to hand over to the next in line to him in terms of seniority.





TheCable reports that Seiyefa is next to Daura.





Seyeifa arrived at the presidential villa in an official SUV at 4pm.





Clutching a file, the aide de camp (ADC) to the acting president, received him at the entrance to the office of Osinbajo.




Arsenal legend, Martin Keown has opined that striker, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is the reason Barcelona forward, Ousmane Dembele is unlikely to join the Emirates this summer.Aubameyang was signed by the North London club from Borussia Dortmund for a club-record fee of 56 million in January, while Dembele has been heavily linked with a move away from Barca to join the Gunners in recent weeks.Keown believes Dembele will not join the Gunners because Arsenal already signed Aubameyang in January this year.He urged the Arsenals fans not to expect Dembele at the Emirates stadium.Speaking on the possibility of Dembele joining Arsenal this summer, Keown told Starsport: I dont know, maybe its good for the fans.I dont see it happening. It seems like its an absolute fortune for the player. It doesnt look likely.But maybe the Arsenal fans are hoping for that sort of marquee signing. I think that work was done last year with Aubameyang.Aubameyang is going to be a player that I think could really tear up the Premier League this season so well have to wait and see how that happens.Its great because in a weeks time all the talking stops and well see whos the best.I think Arsenal will be well prepared because the manager had longer to work with his players than everybody else whos been back to pre-season training.You look at the number of players that still arent back properly, Arsenal have had that advantage that the core of the players has been back now for four to five weeks.Arsenal will be hoping to kick star their Premier League campaign on high when they tackle Premier League champions, Manchester City this weekend.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the President Muhammadu Buhari-led government of being behind the Tuesdays invasion of the National Assembly chambers by operatives of the Department of States Services, DSS.The PDP also urged lawmakers in the country to immediately pull the full weight of all legislative instruments against President Muhammadu Buhari, as that is the only way to save our nation from an imminent collapse.In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, PDP also said that, in sending armed security men to invade the National Assembly and block lawmakers from accessing the legislative chambers, today, Tuesday August 7, 2018, President Buhari has crossed the line by placing our democracy in jeopardy, thus setting our nation on the path of anarchy.The statement further reads thus:The invasion of our highest legislative institution by agents of the Buhari-led executive, a few months after the Senate mace was blazingly carted away by armed hoodlums, is condemnable, reprehensible, unpardonable, and completely unacceptable.With this siege, barely a week after presiding officers of the Senate were held hostage at their residences, it has become clear that the Buhari Presidency and the All Progressives Congress (APC) intend to forcefully overrun and ultimately shutdown the highest lawmaking organ of the Nigerian government and pave the way for the total suspension of constitutional rule in the country.The PDP notes in this administrations quest to foist a fascist regime our country, the APC-led government has taken several steps and actions tending towards the suspension of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), including direct usurpations of the duties and powers of the National Assembly and the judiciary in governance.Nigerians and the international community will recall that the PDP had earlier alerted of this plot, which included the phony medical trip to London for President Buhari as an alibi to exonerate him from any blame for this sordid assaults on democracy.The PDP, therefore, calls on the Government of Britain to support Nigeria at this perilous time by not shielding President Buhari in London. Nigerians urge the British government and other members of the international community to immediately condemn and totally reject the ugly developments our country.President Buhari and his APC have consecutively and deliberately put our nation and its democracy on harms way and the National Assembly, as representatives of the people, must eschew all partisan interests and save the nation by immediately deploying all legislative instruments against President Buhari before it is too late.It is instructive to state that if todays assault on our legislature had succeeded, it would have been the second time Muhammadu Buhari would have toppled constitutional rule in our country.Finally, the PDP commends Nigerians, who marched out in their numbers today, in response to our earlier call, to resist this brigandage against our nation even as we urge them to remain alert, as eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.
A member of the House of Representatives, Boma Goodhead on Tuesday dared operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) to shoot her...

A member of the House of Representatives, Boma Goodhead on Tuesday dared operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) to shoot her and others blocked from entering the National Assembly.

The lawmaker represents Asalga/Akulga federal constituency of Bayelsa State.





Recall that we had report the massive reinforcement at the entry, exit and within the premises.





The siege at the complex is alleged to be part of the plot to effect a change of the Senate leadership.





Infuriated that people were stopped from gaining access into the premises, Goodhead charged towards the DSS agents.





Start shooting, shoot this gun, she said pointing to operatives rifles.





How many people can you shoot down here, how many? she screamed.





However, the operatives kept their cool and said no word.





At a point in the video, a voice was heard appealing to Boma to calm down.





Meanwhile, lawmakers have forced their way into the complex.




President Muhammadu Buhari, Tuesday, disclosed that the global competitiveness of Nigerian engineers has reduced drastically due to the absence of an updated engineering curriculum, as well of the absence of critical engineering training infrastructure in institutions of learning nationwide.Speaking at the 27th Engineering Assembly of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, COREN, Buhari, who was represented by the Minister of Water Resources, Mr. Suleiman Adamu, also stated that Nigeria was in dire need of new engineering technologies to improve the countrys infrastructure development.He noted that the absence of infrastructure in most engineering faculties up to our universities, that complement theoretical teaching with practical knowledge, had created a wide deficit in the quality of Nigerias engineering products.According to him, of similar concern was the fact that Nigerians are victims of poor quality of service delivery by poorly trained and unqualified engineers, adding that wherever there was a collapse of infrastructure anywhere in Nigeria, be it building or bridge, everyone is left to count the losses.Similarly, the absence of up to date engineering curriculum to reflect the current global trends in engineering, has drastically reduced the competitiveness of our engineers. There is a deserving gap between engineers trained in Nigeria and those trained abroad. There is the need for our universities to turn out quality and world grade professionals, he explained.The president further declared that no society would develop without engineering, noting that it was his desire to see the development of engineering training and practice in Nigeria and through it, a better living for all Nigerians.Buhari emphasized the need to upgrade the quality of engineering practice in Nigeria and concentrate on the application of modern engineering technology in road construction, power, manufacturing, and housing among others.He said, New engineering technologies are also needed to improve services in agriculture, transportation and power sectors, particularly to revamp our power generation, transmission and distribution, as well as our metering system.It is in the light of this that I wish to appreciate the effort of COREN in the review of the engineering curriculum for undergraduate training in Nigerian universities.In his presentation, President of COREN, Mr. Kashim Ali, commended the Presidency for the promulgation of Executive Order Number 5, which gives preferences to indigenous firms in the award of contracts, stating that it was an indication that the Federal Government now believes in the ability of indigenous practitioners.According to him, with this Executive Order, the ball was now in the court of the Nigerians engineering practitioners to prove that they are competent and bale to execute projects that meet international standards.He, however, noted that over the years, it had been observed that certain lacuna exist in the Engineers (Registration) Act CAP E11 of 2004, which vests powers on COREN to regulate the practice of engineering in all aspects and ramifications.According to Ali, this lacuna in its Act had served to hinder the optimal performance of COREN, especially in the area of enforcement, prosecution of quacks and inadequate sanctions for offenders among others.He said, To this end, there have been clamour for amendments to the Act. This prayer has also been answered as stakeholders including the Minister of Power, Works and Housing have come together to work with the National assembly for the amendment of the subsisting Act, which has already been passed by the House of Representatives and is now awaiting the concurrence of the Senate.
Nigerians on social media have reacted to the sacking of the Director General of the State Security Services, DSS, Lawal Daura, by the Act...

Nigerians on social media have reacted to the sacking of the Director General of the State Security Services, DSS, Lawal Daura, by the Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo.

The DSS boss was dismissed on Tuesday by the Vice President.





Some Nigerians believe that the sack of the DSS boss was long overdue, adding that he may have sent his men to the Senate without the consent of the Acting President, as the Vps decision may not be unconnected to the invasion of the National Assembly by men of the DSS on Tuesday.





Here is how Nigerians are reacting on Twitter:





@employlawone, Now you are beginning to live up to the creed and fidelity to your oath of office.





@AdaraloyeScott, Oh really! Should I say thumbs up to you for not keeping him in line in the first place. Sacrificial lamb When you lost a goodwill, youve lost it.









@GordonMuero, Thank you VP @ProfOsinbajo, for getting rid of one of the biggest threats to our democracy. Daura like many others, was a product of nepotism.





@XixtinTheGreat, After the DSS carry out your instructions, you turn around and fire the same person who you sent? Just to save face on social media @MBuhari.





@noobhagas, Does this mean that what happened today was without the consent of the VP? God bless you Sir, for taking such action. This shows clearly that you are not in support of those trying to joke with our democracy. You are really a good administrator.





@segunjimoh, Nicebut we have a BIG question to ask here. Who ordered the invasion of the NAtional Assembly complex in the first place? The DG DSS cannot just be a scape goat, he acted on orders but from who? The VP should tell us. We deserve to know as this process is incomplete.





@Davidadeola10, Great move! Thats what we are talking about. We say Buhari has been condoning impunity. Hoping Buhari will not reinstate him.





@zion_ewere, I strongly stand to be disproved that Daura Lawal acted on his own might and bigotry authority. He has been a serial threat to our noble democracy and this is the right move by the Ag President. Long live our democracy and the rule of law.




Brig.-Gen. Suleiman Kazaure, the Director-General, National Youth Corps, has warned corps members against night parties and organising social events without the knowledge of the appropriate authority.Kazaure, while addressing corps members in Ikare Akoko on Tuesday, directed that all social events must not hold without approvals.He said the scheme was devastated over the sad occurrence in Taraba State where nine corps members got drowned.Kazaure said serving ones fatherland was all about devotion, urging them to learn the necessary skills while in camp.I am sure you are aware we lost nine corps members in Taraba; they were 2018 Batch A corps members.Whenever you are going to embark on any social outings, you must seek clearance from NYSC officials, either the local government inspectors or the state coordinator; thats my directive.He urged them to respect the culture of their host communities and behave like graduates that they are.Kazaure later reiterated the commitment of the scheme to security and welfare of corps members nationwide.Later, Mrs Grace Akpabio, the State Coordinator, said she was happy with the visit of the director-general, being the first time she would host an NYSC boss.Akpabio said Kazaure was happy and impressed with what she had done so far at the orientation camp, in terms of infrastructural development.
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, Senator Ita Enang, has spoken on the alleged condition(s) atta...

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, Senator Ita Enang, has spoken on the alleged condition(s) attached to the defection of former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio.





Enang said that the reports making the rounds that the lawmaker will be excused of his alleged corruption cases when he finally joins the fold of the ruling party was not true.





The presidential aide told The Nation that, No condition is attached to Akpabios defection from PDP to APC.





He added that the ruling party, assured him[the former governor] of a level playing field and a sense of belonging.





He added, The APC leadership is in the picture and all our leaders, including Asiwaju Tinubu, are fully in support of Sen. Akpabios move to our great party





We will accord him all the privileges attached to a former governor. Everything is set to receive him on Wednesday.





Akpabios imminent movement has thrown the PDP into a state of shock.





We had earlier this morning reported that Senator Akpabio has resigned as the Senate Minority Leader.





Enang added, The APC has harvested more people from the PDP and other political parties.





The head of the PDP in the Senate is formally joining the APC family in a big ceremony on Wednesday the 8th if August in Akwa Ibom State.




Lawal Daura, director-general of the Department of State Services (DSS) has been arrested.

arrested. Lawal Daura, director-general of the Department of State Services (DSS) has beenarrested.





He was arrested after Acting President Yemi Osinbajo relieved him of his duties on Tuesday afternoon.





Osinbajo had summoned Daura alongside Ibrahim Idris, inspector-general of police, over the siege laid to the national assembly earlier in the day.





Federal lawmakers were denied access to the legislative chamber, fuelling speculations that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was perfecting its plot to oust Senate President Bukola Saraki.





The two security chiefs arrived Aso Rock at different times. While Idris got to the presidential villa at 12;35pm, Daura got there at 1:15pm.





After briefing Osinbajo, the former DSS DG was whisked away.





State house correspondents who were waiting to speak with the security chiefs did not know that Daura had been taken away through another exit.




Some Senators loyal to the Senate President, Bukola Saraki have forced their way into the National Assembly.

Some Senators loyal to the Senate President, Bukola Saraki have forced their way into the National Assembly.

Recall that the leadership of the National Assembly had yesterday called for an emergency meeting today, Tuesday, at 12 noon.





However, operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, had blocked the entrance of the National Assembly, thereby preventing lawmakers and workers from entering the complex.





But lawmakers known to be loyal to the Senate President forced their way into the complex.





They are currently in front of the Senate chambers ahead of their meeting.





Senators in the complex include Senators Biodun Olujimi, Rafiu Ibrahim, Aidoko Atai, Gessom, Ogembe, Ben Bruce, Isa Misau, Peter Nwaboshi, Solomon Lah, Shittu, Emmanuel Bwacha, Gilbert and others.




















Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a 45-year-old woman, Hadijat Kabiru, for allegedly faking her own kidnap to d...

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a 45-year-old woman, Hadijat Kabiru, for allegedly faking her own kidnap to defraud her 55-year-old husband, Muraino Kabiru.Also arrested were two suspected accomplices, Ahmed Kudus and Hadijat Rufai.It was gathered that Muraino received a call from the suspected kidnappers on August 2, 2018, that his wife, Hadijat, and 18-year-old daughter, Hamidat, had been kidnapped on their way to a psychiatric hospital in the Oshodi area of Lagos State.It was also learnt that the alleged kidnappers had demanded N15m for the release of the victims before Muraino reported the matter to police.While briefing the press on Monday, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Edgal Imohimi, said the Anti-Kidnapping Squad rescued the victims and arrested the suspects.The CP said Hadijat confessed that she planned the kidnap to defraud her husband.Imohimi said, On Thursday, August 8, 2018, around 3.30pm, one Alhaji Muraino Kabiru of Governors Road, Ikotun, reported at the Ikotun Police Station that his wife, Hadijat Kabiru, and his daughter, Hamidat, 18, who is of unsound mind, were kidnapped on their way to a psychiatric hospital in Oshodi, Lagos.He said the kidnappers demanded N15m for the hostages. Based on this, I directed the Anti-Kidnapping Squad to rescue the hostages and arrest the suspects.Investigation revealed that the kidnappers were making their demands from the Ado-Odo Ota area of Ogun State. The operatives of the squad mobilised and the hostages were rescued.Ahmed Kudus, 29, and Hadijat Rufai, 39, were arrested, while the rest of the suspects fled the scene. One of the hostages, Hadijat, confessed that she planned her kidnap with the suspects to defraud her husband.The CP explained that Hadijat noted that a native doctor, Wasiu Rufai, and two others, Luqmon Ahmed, and one Jossy, were part of the gang.Hadijat, an indigene of Oyo State, said she hid herself to defraud her husband because he did not give her money to take care of herself.The victim-turned suspect also claimed that her husband refused to take care of their sick daughter, adding that he was only interested in acquiring property.Hadijat said, Whenever I asked him for money, he usually shouted at me. I told him to give me N500,000, but he did not give me and that was why I decided to hide myself. I did not ask for N15m.I have four children for him, but he has refused to do anything for me. He knows that my daughter is sick, yet he keeps building houses; he has about 12 houses in Lagos. I am his first wife and we have been together for about 27 years. We have a company together, but he did not do anything for me.All my family members have been calling me for money. My mother has been calling me for money, but I have no money to give her. What am I to do? So, I just hid myself in a place to collect money from him.Hadijat denied knowing the arrested accomplices.Kudus, however, said he knew Hadijat as his brothers lover.The 29-year-old Ogun State indigene said, I know her to be in a relationship with my brother, Ahmed Lukman, and they always come to our house at Ado-Odo.On Saturday, my brother called me to meet him at Church Hotel; he was with this woman. When I got there, I saw him talking to someone on the telephone and also saw this woman pretending as if she was crying. I later heard my brother saying, we will talk later, before he cut the call.Later, I heard them talking to someone on the phone about N1m, and this woman told them that the money was too small and that they should make it N4m. I asked them what the money was meant for. When they told me, I collected the phone and asked the man to please give them the money and let peace reign.The second accomplice, Rufai, said she stopped the police from arresting her husband, adding that she was arrested after he escaped.
For some people, the pursuit of happiness and love is worth risking it all, even if it means having an extramarital affair. But sometimes, you might be risking a lot more than you realize. For example, Texas resident Francisco Huizar III had a 16-month affair with Danielle Swords, the wife of Keith King, owner of a BMX stunt show. When the relationship was discovered, it ended up costing Francisco a whopping $8.8 million!

Francisco and Danielles initial meeting actually occurred in 2015 at a company bike show in Texas, where Francisco had been working. At the time, Danielle had been married to Keith for over five years already. But this didnt stop the torrid affair from happening. In fact, Francisco often went to see Danielle  on Keiths dime. After making the first move on Danielle, Francisco then followed her around faithfully, renting out a hotel room near the King house, joining her on a spa day (Keiths treat), and staying in a hotel near Danielle when she went on a birthday trip (again, Keiths treat).

Photo: mohamed_hassan/Pixabay

However, the couples bliss didnt last long. Keith soon noticed inappropriate texts going on between the two, and confronted Francisco. The confrontation became violent, with Francisco putting Keith in a chokehold. He was later charged with assault and battery.

Because Keith lives in North Carolina, a state where it is legal to sue the third party for alienation of affection, or knowingly engaging in extramarital affairs, he has also brought a barrage of evidence to court, including call logs, hotel receipts, and social media posts. Although Danielle claims that their marriage was already on the rocks, Keith has successfully had charges of alienation of affection and criminal conversation upheld since there was no evidence of previous marital discord. It was also proven in court that Francisco had purposely come between the married couple and created friction.

Because Keith and Danielle share a daughter, he first had hopes to salvage the marriage and maintain a happy household. But once he found out about North Carolinas adultery laws, he went full throttle on both Danielle and Francisco: My marriage was murdered. It was destroyed. He filed suit for criminal conversation, alienation of affection, negligent and negligent infliction of emotional distress, plus assault and battery for the previous dispute.

As a result, Francisco has now been ordered to pay Keith King $8.8 million in punitive, compensatory, and tangible damages. Keith has also lost revenue and an employee (Danielle), which prompted the court to award him with further compensation.



The married couple is now separated, and Danielle and her lawyer plan to appeal the courts decision, as does Francisco Huizar III. Keith considers the $8.8 million compensation to be a hollow victory.
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Since the first stories of sexual assault and harassment in Hollywood broke last fall, the #MeToo movement, first started by activist Tarana Burke a decade ago, took shape as an international revolution predicated on one radical idea: believing women's stories. That movement has grown to include a wide range of related topics under the umbrella of centering the marginalized, empowering the oppressed, holding those in power accountable and strengthening community bonds through action, communication and the powerful financial backing of groups like Time's Up.

One woman who helped spark the fire, Rose McGowan, quickly became an early face of the movement due to her unabashed display of rage, vulnerability and candor  three qualities women are rarely allowed in public (and oftentimes, even in private) without significant social punishment of some kind. Even with "Rose's Army" mobilized, the actress faced considerable backlash for both the delivery of her message and any missteps along the way.

As the world takes shape under the influence of a new weather system dominated by the fight over who gets to speak and when, we asked Rose to share what's been on her mind lately. The below is an op-ed she wrote on a topic she chose to address: misconceptions.

Headpiece by House of Malakai

Stop hitting yourself. Stop hitting yourself. Stop hitting yourself! Sometimes we just don't know our fist is in our own face until it's too late.

I look around at the beings of the world who are working to make a positive shift, and I see the world working against them  tabloids, social media comments, radio interviews, blogs all digging viciously at anyone who's brave enough to try and change the world, but what they don't know is that they aren't just harming someone they will never meet  they are harming themselves.

If you follow my career then you've probably heard it all. I'm a drug addict. Slut. Shameless. Rage filled. An erratic attention seeker in need of psychiatric care.

Sometimes we just don't know our fist is in our own face until it's too late.



You see the images people pair with those labels. My eyes half closed, head freshly shaved, mouth distorted since I was likely in the middle of saying something. It seems to make sense. You're being taught how to see me. As if the photos are actually proof of the person I am. You are being groomed as you were once in school. An image with a description under it. A picture of a COW with the letters C-O-W. What is in the description must be what is in the photo.

But they are lies planting misconceptions into your minds, eroding your ability to think for yourself.

True, I've had some parties in my existence. True, I've had some dates that weren't Forever Til Death Do Us Apart. True, I can be quite explorative when it comes to my fashion sense. And, yeah, I don't always appear societally "photogenic." But imagine someone takes a picture of you in a moment of thought, from across the street with a zoom lens. Then the next day that photo is everywhere. Comments racking up underneath it: "Looks you're doing meth!" "How ugly! Someone put that person out of their misery!" "This person doesn't deserve to have a voice! Cancel!"

Eyewear by Bradley Kenneth, Gloves by Majesty Black for Le Snob

"But, Rose! Come on! That's just part of being a celebrity! People like to dig at celebrities  it's just the price you pay for having a lot of exposure. You get a lot of haters! Chill out! No one actually means anything by it."

Then politely may I ask  why the fuck say it at all? Why think it at all? Why attack at all? Aren't you concerned about getting carpal tunnel? Do you sleep satisfied at night that you have battled against a person you will never know? Does that get you off? Do you understand that on your deathbed you'll never get back that time you spent typing out that article about how horrible of a person I am for wearing a red sweater that didn't match my lipstick, right?

I know I'm an easy target. Many imagine me a self-absorbed millionaire living a red carpet lifestyle. A product of Hollywood. Vain, greedy, consumed by the need for trinkets and bright lights. But the truth is that I'm a being that has felt quite alone in their mindset for a long time. Like an alien. I sold my home and have been sleeping at friends' homes and hotels and Airbnbs ever since, living nomadically. I don't have a bodyguard, but every time I do a public event, I can feel the security team stiffen up when I take the stage. It's like a free fall of trust with every step I take to the microphone. Every word I utter over loudspeakers. I free fall like Alice in Wonderland trusting that though there will always be people who will want to speak over me when I share my voice or perspective  I will be as it's intended to be.

And I am fiery. I'm not subtle. Because people are dying now. People are being raped now.



Over the past year there has been an explosion of activity swirling about. Vulnerable information and truths about me gobbled up by the blue-screen-tinted-eyes of millions who I will never meet. Many sources have said and continue to say that I'm depressed and angry all the time. But despite my loneliness, I DO find my tribe and adventure with them. From raucous karaoke in Berlin with people I'd just met, to cooking dinner for some kind friends who let me stay over last minute. I joke, I do art, I do a happy dance when I'm eating good food and I'm a sucker for long baths. Sometimes I wake up and look in the mirror and just have a good laugh.

The reason I am perceived erroneously is because when it comes to my public life, I do turn up the heat. I do not apologize. I say things bluntly, sharply. Why? Because every day I get hundreds of messages from people around the world, sharing their anguish over their abusers. People sharing their stories of being violated, silenced, beaten and raped. Of feeling trapped. And I cannot ignore them. I cannot say, "Sad to hear. Feel better soon!" I worked hard to have a platform to do something about it. And so I do.

I wake up every morning with a mission to be an ally to women  and dedicate my platform to their voices and struggles. I sit on television in front of millions as host after host sneers and questions my sanity for even saying, "We deserve to be respected. We deserve to have equal pay. We deserve to have equal power. Take your eyes off us  we are not products in a shop window for sale. We are humans." And I am fiery. I'm not subtle. Because people are dying now. People are being raped now. About 1 in 3 women worldwide have experience either physical or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner violence in their lifetime. 70 percent of rape or sexual assault victims experience moderate to severe mental distress, a larger percentage than for any other violent crime.

Millinery by Victoria Grant, Gloves by Majesty Black for Le Snob

People are experiencing injustice now. So hard stop  I feel the need to shut down oppressors now. No time for excuses. No time for diplomacy. Just freeze. Halt. Stop.

I'm sharing my story and my feelings of being misperceived not because I'm asking for your sympathy. Rather, I'm asking you for your consideration to join the fight against cyberbullying, abusive tabloids, and people who spread opinions without proof simply to degrade. We are ruining our own selves when we sit by. We are literally punching ourselves in the face. Sometimes silence is violence all on its own. It may be exhausting, but speak up. Because not every person has been hardened to the extremes of verbal violence like myself. Many are not used to feeling so alone in their activism. Many of them will simply give up on the cause and sometimes even on their own existence. When that happens we all lose.

You don't have to be in the headlines to make headway on change. There are many ways to be an activist. Firstly, just being ACTIVE at all. Supporting social pages of those that need their voices elevated to fight for justice. Commenting encouragement for those who take a risk for the greater good. Blocking and reporting hateful profiles. Taking a little time every day  even five minutes on the bus  to read articles or books about people from different backgrounds from yourself. Get educated. At the very least, don't tear down members of your own community out of jealousy, competitive thought, or narcissism. Use your fight for those who want to harm us.

Where we see light, we should foster it. Blow an ember into flame. We have the ability to truly change the world  but only together.



Where we see light, we should foster it. Blow an ember into flame. We have the ability to truly change the world  but only together.

Like me or not, I'm here on your team every single day advocating for your right to exist freely and equally. For those of you that do hate that I exist  to hate me is to hate yourself. To hate the idea of a person who fights for your well being and equality. If your wish were granted and I was gone, there would just be another person in that tabloid slot. In that headline. In that podcast. And the likelihood that they care about you as much I do is slim. So for your sake I hope you don't get your wish. Let's be brave together.
In 2016 Chinese State TV slammed Samsung over the Note 7 recall discrimination. That was the beginning of Samsung's sharp decline in China. Although Samsung phones were the best sellers for years, the company has been close to wiped out in China registering less than 1% of the market in April 2018. A new report today warns that Chinese nationalist sentiment is rising against the company in the shadow of the U.S.-China trade war.

While the U.S. news of a looming trade-war expansion with China is gathering steam, CNBC noted today that the Chinese media is hinting that ultimately U.S. companies could begin to enter the firing line in the conflict between the world's two largest economies.

The discussion of a trade war led to fingers pointing to Chinese processors of Apple's iPhones only making 1.8% of total iPhone profits. The term "Chinese processors" appears to translate to companies like Foxconn who assemble the iPhones.

The news site en.people.cn stated that "Apple's contribution to job creation in China is notable, but the company enjoys most of the profits created from its Chinese business. It is impractical and unreasonable to kick the company out of China, but if Apple wants to continue raking in enormous profits from the Chinese markets amid trade tensions, the company needs to do more to share the economic cake with local Chinese people."

You could read the full CNBC story here and the originating Chinese report here.

Whether Apple will respond to the Chinese publication's myopic view of Apple's contribution to China and its people is unknown at this time as this could be a powder keg should something be said to upset the matter any further.





Last month Patently Apple posted a report titled "The Rumors Continue that China's BOE is working to Land Apple iPhone Display Orders." BOE is a Chinese company who makes displays and is entering both OLED and bendable display markets. BOE is part of the BOE Technology Group.





In addition Apple recently launched a new clean energy fund in China worth $300 million over the next four years.

Apple noted that that it's "a first-of-its-kind investment fund in China to connect suppliers with renewable energy sources. As part of Apple's commitment to address climate change and increase the use of renewable energy within its supply chain, 10 initial suppliers and Apple will jointly invest nearly $300 million over the next four years into the China Clean Energy Fund. The fund will invest in and develop clean energy projects totaling more than 1 gigawatt of renewable energy in China, the equivalent of powering nearly 1 million homes."

Apple also invested a billion dollars in Didi Chuxing back in 2016, China's largest Uber-like ride-hailing service.

Suffice to say that these few examples of Apple investing in China with iPhone profits along with dozens of first class Apple Stores is a well established fact and there's likely a lot more to come. Apple is a shining light of an American business successfully working with the Chinese government.

Should the Chinese government decide to put a gun to Apple's head in this economic trade war, they'd be making a huge mistake. If Apple can't make a go of it in China, then why would any U.S. company want to trust and invest in China any further?

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We start our tour by visiting the Valley of the Kings. We visit three of the famous tombs of kings. (There is an additional cost of $15 to visit the tomb of Tutankhamen.) Next, we pass by Queen Hatshepsuts Temple for a quick photo stop. As we leave the Valley of the Kings, we visit the Colossi of Memnon. We then return to the ship for lunch. This afternoon we have a photo stop at the Luxor Temple and then visit the Karnak Temple, which is dedicated to the god Amon, his wife Mut, and their son Khonsu. Tonight, we can enjoy the optional evening spectacular Sound and Light show at the Karnak temple ($30). This unique show narrates the story of the temple and the history of Thebes, including the lives and celebrated achievements of the pharaohs who built the necropolis. Overnight onboard.
The Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) says about 80 inactive Free Zones companies risk being de-listed soon since they are unfit to carry out business as beneficiaries of the Free Zones Act.



Michael Okyere-Baafi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GFZA, who made this known to the media yesterday in Accra, said the authority would embark on this drive to instill discipline in the sector, especially for companies that have failed to live up to expectation.



Output



Total production from Free Zones companies for 2017 stood at $1,312,293,052 while export earnings were $1,484,858,534.



He said that capital invested stood at $172,033,615.



Employment



He said GFZA employed 29,170 people through its programmes in 2017.



Of this figure, 28,405 were Ghanaians while 765 were foreigners.



The media interaction formed part of the authoritys investment week celebration from 6-12 August 2018 to enhance its corporate image.



Its under the theme, Export Oriented Industrialization: Key to Ghanas Development.



New business



The CEO said that at the end of the 2nd quarter of this year, 18 companies had been licensed as free zone enterprises.



These companies, he said, were expected to invest an estimated total capital of $967,159,721 while 7,049 jobs are to be created with the expected export earning $238,284,472.



These newly licensed companies are in various stages of setting up.



Noting that the countrys trade deficits affected the stability of the cedi, he said Ghana should export more to earn the needed foreign exchange to stabilize the cedi.



He disclosed that his outfit had created three autonomous offices, which were operational at Tema, Takoradi and Kumasi and manned by senior officers.



Review of Act



The Board is also in the process of reviewing the Free Zones Act to make it more investor friendly. The Act is expected to have additional provisions and some changes to existing sections. We have made proposal relating to minimum capital and number of employees, as well as more incentives for free zone enterprises that export more which is not in the current Act.



Two new units, Business Development and Research as well as Monitoring, have been created. The Business Development Unit will do market intelligence and source for new markets for free zones companies while the Monitoring Unit has been set up to monitor activities of free zone enterprises to ensure that their operations go on smoothly and they fulfill all their obligations.



Sanctions



Mr Okyere Baafi added that the authoritys board had also approved sanctions and fines for free zone enterprises that flout the law.



However, these sanctions have been approved and published to ensure that the companies are aware of the consequences of going contrary to the Act and regulations of the Authority.



Facelift projects



GFZA also intends to undertake facelift at the Tema Export Processing Zone by fixing broken walls, constructing a business center and installing a tolling system at the main entrance.



Status of companies



At the end of 2017, the number of Free Zone companies stood at 201, with 181 being active.



Of the 181 active companies, 55 were wholly Ghanaian companies, representing 30 percent, 56 were wholly foreign companies, representing 31 percent and 70 were joint ventures, representing 39 percent.

Source: Daily Guide









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Government has announced plans to absorb extra classes fees for students on campus and on vacation under its much anticipated Double track System.



Based on last years enrollment, the government has projected enrollment figures for 2018 to stand at 472,730 against available seats of 290, 737 leaving a gap of 181, 993.



In order to accommodate the expected number of enrollment, the government has resolved to introduce a system called double tracking which will be similar to the semester mode of learning applicable in the universities and is expected to last for seven years.



Addressing the media Tuesday at the meet the press series in Accra, Education Minister Mathew Opoku Prempeh said the government was adopting the system while putting in measures to build enough educational structures.



During the implementation of the policy, the Education Minister said, government is going to provide per head GHC50 to every student as academic intervention, where the teachers if they have to organize extra lessons in Maths and English, will not charge their students.



The government will give them money to be able to pay for the extra classes.



He added that for students who will be on the green track, breaking frequently, we are organizing to have extra classes at home and give them work when they are going home so that they can fulfill it.



Government, he further observed, will provide centres in the constituencies for them (students) to engage [and] meet teachers.



The double tracking system has been slammed by Former President John Dramani Mahama and a litany of think tanks including IMANI Africa and ISODEC as needless.



ISODEC, for instance, attributed lack of due diligence on the part of government before implementing the fee-free education policy as the cause of the current crisis the nation is experiencing at the SHS level.



But speaking to Starr News, Deputy Education Minister Dr Adutwum explained that the system will last for only seven years, to allow the government to address the accommodation challenges in the various SHSs after which the schools will revert to the normal education calendar.



This is a stop-gap measure, even in all countries that have used it, Dr Adutwum told Ultimate FMs, Isaac Bediako Justice.



Also, the system, according to the Education Ministry, will offer students more instructional and contact hours with teachers.

Source: Daily Guide









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A man, who attempted to sell off his 14-year-old son to a National Democratic Congress constituency chairman for a financial breakthrough last Saturday, has been arrested by the Police in the Western Region.



The middle-aged man, who gave his name as Samuel, was said to have told his friends at a drugs ghetto that he was looking for someone to buy his son because he was a stubborn child.



The NDC chairman for Ellembele constituency, Alex Mahama, who had a tip-off of the mans intention, feigned interest and arranged a meeting with the father of the child at the Melvina Lodge at Ellembele.



He informed the police at Anyinase about the incident following which an officer was assigned to him to help effect the arrest of the suspect.



According to the NDC chairman, he told the person through whom he got the information about the sale of the child to inform the suspect he was ready to buy the boy who was being sold at a price of 100,000 cedis.



He said they agreed on Saturday with the suspect following which they booked room 13 at Melvina Lodge for the transaction.



Because the chairman is a known figure, he said he got the Assembly member of Awiebo electoral area to be his agent for the transaction.



The suspect on Saturday night showed up at the venue with his accomplice as agreed.



At the venue, the assembly member and the two suspects bargained and agreed on 60,000 cedis after which the accomplice left the scene to bring the 14-year-old boy while the father stayed at the hotel to have dinner.



The Police was signaled and just when the accomplice brought the boy to the hotel, the Police moved in and arrested the two.



They are currently assisting the Police in investigations.



Mother of the boy is said to have died when he was very young and currently staying with his father and step mother.











Source: 3news.com









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The outgoing Sierra Leonean High Commissioner to Ghana, Justice Umu Hawa Tajan Hallow, has expressed the appreciation of the government and the people of Sierra Leone to their Ghanaian counterparts for their continued support for her country.



According to her, 90 per cent of all serious and critical medical cases referred out of Sierra Leone was handled in Ghana by various medical facilities, including the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra.



Justice Hallow made the revelation at the Jubilee House when she bid farewell to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo after her two-and-a-half-year duty tour of Ghana.



She also noted that Ghanaian institutions of learning had continuously opened their doors to members of staff of Sierra Leonean ministries, departments and agencies to add to their knowledge and expertise and tap from the Ghanaian experience.



Security



According to her, Sierra Leone and Ghana had, over the years, enjoyed excellent bilateral relations, adding that the government and the people of Ghana had always supported the socio-economic development and security needs of Sierra Leone.



She commended Ghana for contributing a sizeable contingent to the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) force during Sierra Leones civil war, as well as its contribution towards the eradication of the Ebola virus in Sierra Leone.



Ghana was one of the countries that never imposed travel restrictions on our citizens during the outbreak, she added.



Humanitarian relief



Justice Hallow further recounted the speed with which Ghana sent humanitarian relief and money to Sierra Leone after the devastating mudslides that claimed many lives and destroyed properties.



In response to the clarion call by the President of Sierra Leone for humanitarian assistance, Ghana was among the first to provide tens of thousands of cedis worth of food, medical and humanitarian items and cash for victims of the disaster.



In view of these and many more, I wish, on behalf of the government and the people of Sierra Leone, to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to Your Excellency and the people of the Republic of Ghana for the continued support to Sierra Leone, she said.



She reaffirmed her countrys cooperation with Ghana at all times and promised to serve as a good representative of Ghana in her home country.



Relationship



President Akufo-Addo pledged Ghanas commitment to strengthen and deepen its relationship with Sierra Leone for the mutual benefit of the two countries.



He said the relationship between the two countries predated independence and recounted how some Ghanaians had gone to Sierra Leone for further studies.



According to the President, there was a lot the two countries and other countries in the regional bloc could offer one another when they committed themselves to chart a new course to deepen cooperation.



He commended the government and the people of Sierra Leone for embarking on a democratic path and undertaking peaceful transitions.









Source: Graphic.com.gh









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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Monday pledged Ghanas commitment to stand with West African States in crisis every step of the way.



Ghana, he said, had always made it a duty to offer assistance where it was needed, and would continue to do so under his watch.



He said this when the outgoing Sierra Leonean High Commissioner, Justice Umu Hawa Tejan Hallow, called at the Jubilee House to bid him farewell after her duty tour of the country.



Justice Hallow was accredited to Ghana in April 2016.



President Akufo-Addo recalled Ghanas role in managing the deadly Ebola pandemic that hit Sierra Leone and the assistance during last year's devastating landslide in Freetown and said, the two nations and other countries in West Africa stood to gain when they deepened their cooperation.



Ghana, he added, was determined to strengthen ties with Sierra Leone for the mutual benefit of the two countries.



We will continue the friendship with Sierra Leone; it is in our mutual interest, it is important that the relationship between us are strengthened and deepened at all times 



We are members of ECOWAS, we are members of the Commonwealth, a brother African nation, a brother West African nation. There is a lot that we can do together," he said



The President also commended the government and people of Sierra Leone for embarking on a democratic path and peaceful transition.



He urged them to maintain the peace and strive to build the capacity of the institutions of governance in the country.



Justice Hallow expressed appreciation to the President and the people of Ghana for the strong support she enjoyed during her duty tour.



I wish to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation for all the support I received from all sectors of the Ghanaian society in the discharge of my duties.



The High Commissioner acknowledged the socio-economic assistance, health, educational, disaster and security support that Ghana had given Seirra Leone over the years.



She spoke of how, during that countrys Ebola crisis, Ghanas swift response helped to manage the situation, saying, Ghana was one of the countries that never imposed travel restrictions on our citizens during the outbreak.



I wish on behalf of the government and people of sierra Leone to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to your Excellency and the people of the republic of Ghana for the continued support to Sierra Leone, she said.

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.

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Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, cousin to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has denied reports circulating on social media that he was involved in the controversial Ameri deal renegotiation.



In a disclaimer regarding a picture that captures him, his cousin and now Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko, in a meeting with some officials of Ameri, Mr Otchere-Darko said: Yes, I am aware of this picture which has been making the rounds in the media for some time now.



The twist, being fronted by the NDC, is that the picture is evidence that I, Gabby, and my cousin, Edward, are involved (or have been involved) somehow or the other with Ameri. It is a completely false allegation. I have absolutely nothing to do with Ameri. I have no business with them and have had no business with them. Even more materially, I have nothing to do with the renegotiated deal on the Ameri power plant that was brought before Parliament in July. I also know for a fact that Edward has nothing, and I mean nothing, whatsoever to do with Ameri or any deal involving Ameri and the power plant. He has no social media page, so please allow me to speak on his behalf as well. In fact, the Edward I know would have nothing at all to do with Ameri!



The picture you see was taken when the Ameri people visited the Ridge campaign office of Nana Akufo-Addo in December 2016, when John Mahama was still president. You can see several copies of the 2016 NPP manifesto on the table and a framed campaign photo of Nana and Bawumia on the wall. Let me stress this material fact: it was the only day that Edward or myself ever met the Ameri people or any of their representatives.



We were both part of Nanas campaign. The Ameri people wanted to meet Nana, Edwards brother, and we felt it necessary to be clear on what they wanted to talk about with the big man. We both had very strong views against the original Ameri deal and mine, in particular, was no secret.



Let me stress, Edward and I have not been in any way or form involved with Ameri or any of the parties in this renegotiated deal on the Ameri plant that was sent to parliament last month. We have had no involvement or discussions, directly or indirectly, with any of the parties on this deal  not the Ministry, not Metka, not Mytilineos and certainly not Ameri. For the avoidance of doubt, not only was I not consulted by any of the parties on this transaction, my firm, was also not consulted.



The NPP administration recently began taking steps to amend portions of the controversial $510 million deal signed by the John Mahama administration.



The current government believes that there was no value-for-money in the deal signed by the NDC administration, hence the renegotiations.



The renegotiated deal, which has now been cancelled by the president, was expected to be approved by parliament when the House resumes from recess.



However, the move has created controversies.



For instance, the Senior Staff Association of the Volta River Authority (VRA) has described Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko, as an incompetent appointee, indicating that contrary to his claims that Ghana will gain $405 million from the new power deal with Ameri Energy, the country will rather lose up to $472 million.



There is no such savings anywhere in the new contract. This nation will be worse off since Ghanaians will rather be paying an additional cost of US $472 million to Mytilineos International Trading Company for absolutely no work done, Chairman of the Senior Staff Association of VRA, Cephas Duse, stated at a press conference on Monday, 6 August 2018.



He said the amount is beside the US$255 million we have already paid for the first two-and-a-half years.



Is it not ironic that in renegotiating a contract which is supposed to have been overpriced by US $150 million, we end up increasing the cost by US$727 million? Is this the type of review we were promised? he questioned.



Mr Duse stated: We think that this misleading comparison and computation was disingenuously done by the Energy Minister to deceive Ghanaians. This shows that the Honourable Minister is incompetent, lacks integrity or absolutely not on top of his job.



The VRA Senior Staff Association stated emphatically that the Energy Minister's claim that the Novation and Amendment Agreement will save the country some money, is "misleading, flawed and inaccurate".







Source: classfmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The minority in Parliament is demanding for the immediate dismissal of the Executive Secretary to President Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo, over the controversial Ameri energy deal saga which has led to the sacking of energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko.



According to a Minority Member on the Mines and Energy Committee of Parliament, Edward Bawa, the former Mr Agyarko should not go alone, looking at the circumstances that led to his dismissal by the president.



Im not surprised over Agyarkos dismissal because he has failed but the Executive Secretary to the President should not also have his job by now, he noted.



Edward Bawa who is MP for Bongo was speaking Monday on Adom FMs political talk show, Burning Issues following the dismissal of Mr Agarko from the Energy Ministry.



Stop praising the president that he has shown leadership in Agyarkos dismissal, President Akufo-Addo must apologise to Ghanaians for sleeping on his job and failing to protect Ghanaians interest in the renegotiation of the Ameri deal, Edward Bawa demanded.



The Bongo legislature jabbed Nana Asante Bediatuo for failing to do due diligent and proper scrutiny of the documents presented by the former Energy Minister before endorsing the agreement through an executive order to seek Parliamentary approval.



An astute lawyer like Bediatuo who is very knowledgeable in the law should not be left out, he should follow Agyarko, Edward Bawa told show host, Afia Pokua.



A statement by the Presidents secretary, Nana Asante Bediatuo stated that the President of the Republic of Ghana has granted executive approval for the Novation and Amendment Agreement dated July 20, 2018 between (i) the Government of the Republic of Ghana represented by the Minister for Energy (or his authorised representative), (ii) Volta River Authority(VRA), (iii) Africa and Middle East Resource Investment Group(AMERI ENERGY), (iv) Ameri Energy Power Equipment Trading LLC (AMERI EQUIPMENT), (v) Power Projects Sanayi Insaat Ticanet Limited Sirketi (PPR), and (vi) Mytilineos International Trading Company AG (Mytilineos), for operations and maintenance of the existing 250MW AMERI Thermal Plant at Aboadzi, for a period of 15 years.



Various groups including the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), the Institute of Energy Security (IES), Volta River Authority (VRA) Senior Staff Association and among other stakeholders called on Parliament to reject the renegotiated AMERI deal, saying the new deal will cost the country more after the 15-year period.



The IES said the country risks paying more when the deal is agreed upon in its current form.



Under the new agreement, a new company, Mytilineos International Trading Company, will take over the management of the AMERI power plant for 15 years.



The new company has offered to pay AMERI an amount of $52,160,560, with the government paying the remaining $39 million to the Dubai-based AMERI Energy to wash its hands off the deal entirely.



But the Bongo MP, Edward Bawa said the Executive Secretary shouldve waited for the document to be sent to cabinet for it to be subjected to proper scrutiny before granting an executive order.



He added that the minority in parliament will continue to be vigilant in ensuring government protects the public purse in the interest of the citizenry.





Source: adomonline.com









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A Member of the Mines and Energy committee of Parliament and Bongo MP, Edward Bawa has charged the government to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the renegotiated amendment of the AMERI deal.



Mr. Bawas comments were in reaction to Boakye Agyarkos dismissal as the Energy Minister over his handling of the deal.



Speaking to Citi News, he echoed the earlier sentiment of the Minority in Parliament that President Nana Akufo-Addo was complicit in the deal. This was after some reports suggested that the President had given executive approval to the novation agreement.



Boakye Agyarko may be on the lower end of the food chain. I think we have people who are on the higher side, Mr. Bawa remarked.



As a minister, you bring out a document, you give it to the President for approval or Cabinet for approval. The moment you hand it over to either or Cabinet or the Presidency for approval, the document ceases to be your document because you would have made a case as to why that document must be approved or rejected.



On the strength of that, anything that then comes out of Cabinet or comes out of the Presidency by way of executive approval is the work of the President or is the work of Cabinet, Mr. Bawa explained further.



The government took the revised deal to Parliament last week under a certificate of urgency.



But the House deferred its deliberation on the contract due to concerns over the cost and value for money being voiced by civil society and the Minority.



The new agreement was to extend the current five-year deal with Africa and Middle East Resources Investment Group (AMERI) Energy which is currently operating a 300MW emergency power plant in Ghana to 15 years and bring onboard a new company from Greece, Mytilineous International Trading Company, to manage the plant for the period.



Analysis from observers indicated that the proposed amendment to the AMERI agreement would see a cash flow of $1,125,007,380.



But it is expected that the government would be paying a total of $1.375 billion for the AMERI power plant over approximately 18 years instead of the original $510 million.

Source: citinewsroom.com









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Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Joseph Ade Coker has said there is more to the revised AMERI deal which has led to the removal of the Energy Minister, Mr. Boakye Agyarko than meets the eye.



According to him, all those involved in the decision taking must also face the full rigour of the law even though the sacrificial lamb has been thrown out.



One person cannot take such a strong decision.



Indeed the Energy Minister alone cannot bear this canker and shame alone when there is a lot to it. More heads must roll for there are active players involved who must as well face the music, he said.



Ade Coker in an interview on UTVs Adekye Nsroma political segment noted that Senior Staff of Volta River Authority [VRA] and the Minority in Parliament must be commended for the abrogation of the new AMERI deal, because their vigilance and agitations led to it being recalled.



He further advised Mr. Boakye Agyarko that he shouldnt be quiet and made to carry the shame alone as his reputation built for years cannot be ruined in just a second.



Energy Minister Sacked



A statement issued and signed by the Director of Communications at the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, said the President by a "letter dated 6th August, 2018, relieved the Minister for Energy, Mr. Boakye Agyarko, of his position, with immediate effect."



According to the statement, President Akufo-Addo "asked Mr. Boakye Agyarko to hand over his office to the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. John Peter Amewu, who will act temporarily as Minister for Energy, until a substantive appointment is made".



Revised Ameri Deal



The Akufo-Addo government took the revised deal to Parliament last week under a certificate of urgency, but the House deferred its deliberation on the contract due to concerns over the cost and value for money.



Under the new proposal, the Greece-based Mytilineos International Trading Company was to assume management responsibility for the AMERI emergency power-generation arrangement negotiated by the past NDC government, in effect extending the original outsourcing agreement by ten more years.



In the supposed renegotiated agreement, government is expected to extend the $510 million deal from its original five years to 15 years with the government committing over $700 million to it.



Management of Ameri Energy has since stated that it had no discussions with government with regards to the power plants and the new deal with Mytilineos.

Source: Elizabeth Semiheva Bedi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Ghanaian uprising Hollywood actor Abraham Attah has made it clear that he will not star in any Ghanaian movie which will not be found on Netflix.



During an interview with Abeiku Santana on UTVs Popular Atuu show, the young actor was asked if he will feature in our local Ghanaian movies (Ghallywood & Kumawood), and in answer to this question, the Beast of No Nation actor said he will not hesitate to star in such movies but if only that particular movie will be available on Netflix.



The young actor also disclosed that most of the movies here have no future and its because they are not featured on Netflix, subscription-based streaming services where movies are stored for online streaming of a film library.



If the script is sent to me and it has a future I will feature in it.



The award-winning actor has featured in Hollywood movies like Beast of No Nation, Spiderman Homecoming and Out Of The Village which can all be found on Netflix.



VIDEO-

Source: ghanacelebrities.com









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After the abrupt retirement in May of Campbell Soup Co. chief executive Denise Morrison and the Camden company's decision to undertake a thorough review of its operations, some are speculating that the controlling Dorrance family could finally decide to sell the 149-year-old company. Read more

Activist investor Daniel S. Loeb, allied with a member of the controlling Dorrance family, went public last week with his campaign to force a sale of Campbell Soup Co., which has faltered in its bid to modernize its portfolio of packaged foods.

But any such deal faces difficult math: The 149-year-old Camden food company's charter, as allowed under New Jersey law, says two-thirds of votes cast by shareholders must favor a sale. A two-thirds vote is also needed to change the charter.

Given that family members represented on the board own 41 percent of the stock, would-be buyers could be out of luck unless the family  descendants of John T. Dorrance, a chemist who invented condensed soup in 1897  can be convinced to sell.

The brother-and-sister team of Bennett Dorrance, 72, and Mary Alice Malone, 68, billionaires who own a combined 33.1 percent stake, themselves come very close to controlling Campbell outright because the two-thirds rule gives them an almost insurmountable lead.

"For practical purposes, the two of them voting alone could probably stop virtually any sale," said William S. Skinner, who practices corporate law out of the Cherry Hill office of Flaster/Greenberg.

If Bennett Dorrance, who lives in Arizona, and Malone, a Chester County resident, were to disagree on the future of the company and not vote as a bloc, it would be a different matter. Historically, neither has spoken publicly about any intentions.

A third key family member is Archbold D. Van Beuren, who represents a family trust that owns 7.9 percent of Campbell and is believed to be the only great-grandson of John Dorrance to have worked at the company. Van Beuren's mother was among three cousins, grandchildren of Dorrance, who wanted to sell Campbell 30 years ago.

George Strawbridge Jr., the Dorrance descendant working with Loeb, has a 2.8 percent stake but retired from Campbell's board in 2009. It is possible that additional family members own shares, but don't have to disclose them because they are not on the board and their holdings are too small to trigger disclosure requirements.

The current buzz on the future of Campbell Soup, which employs about 1,200 at its headquarters, started in May after Denise Morrison retired abruptly as president and chief executive, following another report in a long run of weak quarterly earnings. The company announced that it would undertake a complete review of its businesses, which includes the newly acquired Snyder's-Lance Inc. snack maker.

"Everything is on the table. There are no sacred cows," Keith R. McLoughlin, a member of the board named interim CEO, told analysts on May 18.

Campbell has said it will disclose the results of the review on Aug. 30 and is not commenting on "rumor and speculation."

Loeb's Third Point LLC, a New York investment firm, disclosed Thursday that it had acquired a 5.6 percent state in Campbell for $686 million. "The only justifiable outcome of the strategic review" is the sale of Campbell, the filing said.

Some have speculated that Kraft Heinz Co., a food giant with its own growth troubles, was in the hunt for Campbell. Food analysts were skeptical in June when the first suggestions emerged that Kraft Heinz might want to acquire the company. Campbell would not fulfill Kraft Heinz's needs: growth in the U.S. and strong platforms for overseas expansion.

Campbell has been here before, surrounded by talk that the family would sell.

The April 1989 death of John T. "Jack" Dorrance Jr., the only son of the chemist who devised the recipe for condensed soup and chairman of the company for more than 20 years until 1984, brought more than speculation. At the time, the family holdings totaled nearly 60 percent.

Eight months after Jack Dorrance's death, three of his nieces, granddaughters of the elder Dorrance who together owned a combined 16 percent of Campbell shares, called for the sale of the company. The period was chronicled in a three-part Inquirer series in 1991.

The board, which included outsiders, in early 1990 backed Jack Dorrance's three children, Malone, Bennett Dorrance, and John T. "Ippy" Dorrance III, who owned a combined 31.8 percent of the company and did not want to sell. Joining them in favor of keeping the company was cousin George Strawbridge Jr., who held 2.1 percent of the stock.

A few years later, Ippy Dorrance, the oldest of the three, moved to Ireland and sold his shares, but the percentage stakes of his siblings have increased thanks to share buybacks that have reduced the number of shares outstanding.

Campbell's fortunes soared in the 1990s as new chief executive David Johnson slashed expenses, sold off weak parts of the business, and raised prices to boost profits. The stock price followed, reaching a peak in the late 1990s that was not surpassed until 2016.

His successor, Dale F. Morrison  no relation to Denise  took over in 1997. He faced a period of turmoil, including the ill-fated spin-off of Vlasic Foods International Inc. in a bid to focus on more promising brands, and a run of bad earnings reports as soup sales fell. Morrison resigned abruptly in early 2000.

Some analysts expected the Dorrances, who at the time held 54 percent of Campbell's shares, to realize that the soup business's prospects were not so hot and decide to sell. Again they held on, though some members of the family trust reduced their holdings over the years. In 2016 and 2017, when the stock was worth around $60 a share, the trust reported sales of 487,283 shares for nearly $30 million.

It is too soon to say what will happen this time, especially given the growth troubles of most big food companies.

Longtime Campbell Soup analyst Mitchell B. Pinheiro doubts the family will unload the company. If nothing else, selling now would be an extraordinarily rapid turnaround so soon after the board approved the purchase of Snyder's-Lance for $6.1 billion, including debt. That deal was completed in late March.

"Why this time? Campbell's has always had a struggle of some form or another," he said. Anything the company does is less profitable than its declining condensed soup business. But, that's been true for decades.

Campbell shares, which closed Thursday at $42.28, are sharply off from their all-time high of $67.10 in July 2016, but on takeover speculation, they've rebounded from a recent low of $33.28 in late May.

Whatever the share price, the company's dividend likely remains solid, Pinheiro said. It's a huge source of income to family stockholders. For Malone, Campbell's largest shareholder, dividends work out to $204,329 a day.
Exteriors of an AT&T shop on West 34th Street in New York. Read more

WASHINGTON  The federal government on Monday challenged a judicial decision allowing AT&T to purchase Time Warner, arguing to a federal appeals court in Washington that the ruling suffered from "faulty logic" and ignored basic economic principles.

Calling the lower-court decision a "deeply flawed assessment of the government's evidence," the Justice Department claimed that the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia had misunderstood the power dynamics at work when television distributors such as AT&T negotiate with TV programmers over content prices and terms.

The filing marks the government's most comprehensive articulation yet of its appeal against the $85 billion megamerger, which closed in June and gave AT&T control over CNN, TBS, TNT, and HBO, among other media properties. AT&T claimed it needed the deal to compete with tech companies such as Facebook and Google. Meanwhile, regulators had said the deal would indirectly lead to higher prices for consumers when AT&T used its control over Time Warner to demand higher content prices from rival TV services.

The Justice Department's brief on Monday said Judge Richard Leon had gotten the case wrong when he determined that AT&T was not likely to yank CNN, TBS, and its sister channels off the air as a punishment against competitors that refused to pay higher prices. That is beside the point, government regulators said.

"It is fundamental to the economics of bargaining that a party derives leverage from having the ability to walk away, even if it never actually does so," the Justice Department wrote.

That leverage, regulators had said, would give AT&T an advantage in future negotiations with TV distributors whose customers demand Time Warner content.

The Justice Department also said Monday that Leon had unreasonably discounted the testimony of AT&T's rivals as merely the statements of self-interested competitors.

But if the merger is allowed to continue, the agency said, companies such as Dish Network or Charter Communications would not only be AT&T's competitor. They would also become AT&T's customers, as they sought to negotiate with Time Warner for its content.

Leon accepted AT&T's arguments for the deal uncritically, the Justice Department said, making his analysis an "inconsistent" reading of the evidence.

AT&T said Monday that it saw nothing in the government's brief that warranted overturning Leon's decision.

"Appeals aren't 'do-overs,'" said AT&T general counsel David McAtee in a statement. "After a long trial, Judge Leon weighed the evidence and rendered a comprehensive 172-page decision that systematically exposed each of the many holes in the government's case."
Philadelphians seemed more enthusiastic about the free cold brew than the small-business support services New York-based start-up Justworks has rolled into town for the week to promote. Read more

In two shades of blue  navy and cerulean  and a strawberry red, the truck stood out not only because of its drab oyster-colored backdrop  Philadelphia's City Hall  but because it was the only thing parked on the southwest corner of Dilworth Park.

And because of two words emblazoned in all caps on its sides: FREE COFFEE.

Oh, are Philadelphians pushovers for free coffee. Granted, it was cold brew served over ice at midday Monday when the temperature was in the knee-weakening, sweat-inducing-even-without-activity mid-90s.

But still, people that weren't even sure they liked what was being offered lined up for a taste.

"I never had iced coffee in my life," said Arlene Reynolds, 66, a retiree from the School District of Philadelphia, where she was a supervisor of food service.

Not that coffee really has anything to do with the business behind the truck. New York-based start-up Justworks has permits to park in three locations throughout Center City through Friday as an experiment in market expansion that, depending on results here, it might repeat in other cities.

>> READ MORE: Roving food truck will tap into nostalgia for former Philadelphians

Founded in 2013, Justworks provides an outsourcing option for small businesses for essentials that aren't part of the core mission, such as payroll, benefits, human resources, and compliance, and are often too time-consuming or complex to do in-house.

Justworks counts more than 40,000 employees on its technology platform, from businesses with two to 125 workers, said Camilla Velasquez, senior vice president of product and marketing. An aggregation business model that pools all employees of its customers gives Justworks leverage in negotiating more favorable pricing with insurance carriers and other service providers  even fitness centers  that normally wouldn't be available to, say, a 10-employee company, Velasquez said in a phone interview last week about her firm's plans to roll into Philly with a caffeine-oriented customer-building plan.

"We just thought it would be a unique idea," she said, one that Justworks announced through social media and in emails and post cards to customers it already has in Philadelphia.

Judging from the reaction of dozens who bellied up to the coffee window of the truck in Dilworth Park from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Justworks' first day in town seemed a complete surprise  and a mystery.

"I've heard of WeWorks," Leslie Allen, a lawyer for Women Against Abuse, said when a member of the Justworks sales development team approached her as she and colleague Deborah Culhane paused by the coffee truck. (Actually, the name of the coworking space to which she referred is singular, WeWork.) Their Philadelphia-based nonprofit of more than 100 employees uses a giant in the management-services space, ADP, a publicly traded company.

Taking a sip from part of the swag Justworks handed out  an environmentally friendly ceramic mug with rubber lid  Allen gave the beverage and the branding initiative positive reviews.

"I like the coffee. I like the idea," she said, endorsing Justworks' target market. "I used to work for a start-up. This was exactly what we needed because our boss was doing payroll, and HR. It was a mess. This would have been helpful."

She and Culhane headed off to their offices on South Broad Street without a commitment to pursue any business relationship with Justworks.

Tom Marren, a software developer for renewable energy start-up Inspire, with offices in Philadelphia and Santa Monica, Calif., said his company uses TriNet for the services Justworks is offering and didn't see a need to change vendors.

"TriNet is really good," Marren said, a cup of cold brew compliments of Justworks in hand. He did not know what Justworks did until a reporter told him.

Howard Dunetz, a real estate investor from Ambler, wasn't sure, either, despite a list of Justworks' services on the coffee truck.

"I don't know what it's about, but I got a coffee and I got some mints and a nice container," Dunetz said with a smile.

The most enthusiastic review came from 18-year-old Anjali Berdia, an intern in the public defender's office.

"Frankly, this coffee really brightened my day," said the rising sophomore at the University of Pennsylvania, where she's majoring in English. She complimented Justworks' marketing materials as "very clear and aesthetically pleasing."

John Pontry was impressed, too. Although the 23-year-old from South Philadelphia, a process server and bicycle courier, said he doubted the offering would significantly raise awareness about Justworks.

"People like me kind of just go for the free benefits rather than listening to the company and what they do," Pontry said, adding that the coffee was "delicious."

The credit for that goes to a Philadelphia small business, Brulee Catering, expecting to provide Justworks with 500 to 750 cups of coffee a day for its five-day klatch this week (at Sister Cities Park 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, and Spruce Street Harbor Park from 2 to 7 p.m. Friday), said Brulee's Heather Kirby, operations manager of Dilworth Park.

Who handles payroll and other back-office functions for Brulee? "We use ADP," Kirby said.

Andre Ferreira, a Justworks sales development associate in Philadelphia for the week, was taking Day 1 in stride.

"You can't win all battles," he said as the truck was packing up for the day Monday. "But if you can stay on [businesses'] radar, I think that's a win."
Temple University said Monday it had hired Juniper Advisory, a Chicago investment bank, to help with its deliberations on whether to sell Temple University Health System's Fox Chase Cancer Center or Jeanes Hospital or even both.

Other unspecified moves will also be considered as a way to shore up Temple Health's finances, which contend with a significant drag from Temple University Hospital's status as the de facto public hospital for the poor of North Philadelphia. Temple's board had announced in June that it would review its options and hire a financial adviser to review it options.
Kristen Verostick, University of South Florida Department of Anthropology, right, and Jamie Willer, Philadelphia Medical Examiners Office, hand a body bag containing the body of a white male, estimated to be 18-21 years of age, found floating in a creek at Lewis and Richmond Streets. The male had been stabbed multiple times and his body was weighted down with weights that were chained to his feet and legs. The manner of death was ruled homicide. The exhumation of the body took place at 12898 Dunk Ferry Road. Read more

We stood in the middle of the lonely patch of grass in Northeast Philadelphia, in a grove surrounded by tall oaks, where faint depressions in the grass were the only indications that bodies are buried there.

In this, the city's last potter's field, a cluster of state police, forensic anthropologists, and homicide detectives probed the soil Tuesday, searching for the remains of a little girl found in a box in the Schuylkill in 1962.

A little girl mostly erased from the city's memory.

Her obscurity becomes an even greater indignity when you consider that the unidentified child for so long shared this stretch of earth, near Byberry Road, with another Philadelphia mystery: the Boy in the Box, the toddler found in a cardboard box in some roadside woods in Fox Chase in 1957, perhaps the city's most studied unsolved crime.

Unidentified himself, the boy has captured the attention of a city for more than a half a century.

The Girl in the Box has never been afforded that kind of scrutiny.

"Just like Boy in the Box of the 1950s, this was the Girl in the Box of the 1960s," said Lehigh County Homicide Detective Thomas McAndrew, formerly of the state police and now president of the Pennsylvania Homicide Investigators Association. "But no one knew about her  a little black girl largely forgotten."

Not by everybody, he quickly added. Not anymore, at least.

The child was believed to have been between 4 and 6 years old when her headless corpse was found in a wooden milk box floating in the river near Passyunk Avenue. She had been decapitated and burned, one of her fingers amputated and bandaged. Her remains had been wrapped in an apron and a copy of the Sunday Bulletin dated March 11, 1962.

The dig for her remains is part of an effort by state and local police  and national experts  to identify some of nearly 300 nameless dead still on city scrolls, dating back to the 1950s. And to solve the riddle of some of their deaths.

It's a charge led by McAndrew, who has worked murders for 20 years, and Erin Kimmerle, a renowned forensic anthropologist from the University of South Florida. She has dug in overseas war zones to identify the victims of atrocities. And she's dug to identify the victims of American atrocities, too  like those who suffered horrific abuse at a boy's school in Florida, buried in unmarked graves in a makeshift cemetery. The body of one boy, Thomas Curry, a runaway from the school who died from a crushed skull, was sent home to Philadelphia in 1925.

When Kimmerle cracked the lid of his coffin in Old Cathedral Cemetery in West Philadelphia in 2014, the mystery only deepened. The coffin was empty.

That's the sad reality of their work. Even with all the new technology and dedication, when you're probing the dirt for answers in decades-old crimes, sometimes there's only so much you can find.

For his part, McAndrew has become a vocal advocate for reforms that would help police better take advantage of the dizzying array of identification technology now in their grasp. He's long called for stricter mandated national and state databases that help police link the missing with the unidentified dead.

He hopes the attention could cause families who may have given up hope to step forward.

A federal grant dedicated to unsolved homicides led Kimmerle and McAndrew to the file of the Girl in the Box, gathering dust in the city archives, and this old potter's field. (The grant expires later this month  they sneaked the Philly dig under the wire.)

The field was decommissioned in 1987  no more room, officials said at the time  and now the anonymous dead are stored in cold cabinets at the morgue. The Boy in the Box was reburied at Ivy Hill Cemetery in 1998.

The Girl in the Box and the remains of six other young people that Kimmerle and McAndrew hoped to find were left there, languishing in unmarked graves.

There are no societies dedicated to solving these cases. No Wikipedia pages, no internet sleuths searching for their names. Just 6-by-3-foot graves, cheap particleboard coffins  a pine box even too pricey a luxury, apparently  and a cheat sheet that McAndrew hands out with the stark, sparse details of their deaths.

Grave 522: a teenage boy found shot to death in 1977 near some railroad tracks along Delaware Avenue.

Grave 530: a teenage boy stabbed to death and found floating with weights in a Port Richmond creek.

Grave 550: the partial remains of a young woman found also in 1979 in a sewer system in a Tioga sewer.

Their remains were all recovered, with three more graves set to be opened Wednesday and Thursday.

They had opened the Girl in the Box's grave first, and dug down to where they thought she rests, but had not found her. By day's end, they narrowed their search to a few yards of earth nearby. Come morning, they planned to search anew, determined to find a little girl, no longer forgotten.
Kevin Hart poses for photographers upon arrival at premiere of the film 'Jumanji, Welcome To The Jungle' in London. Read more

Six Philadelphia students received the surprise of a lifetime Monday night when comedian and actor Kevin Hart announced he was giving them some help with college expenses.

That is, the Philly native told them he and the United Negro College Fund will lay out $600,000 to help the students  and 12 others from around the country  realize their dream of attending college.

The six students are Jada Taylor, Alexys Smith, Marjani Walton, Willie Smalls, Wayne Fuller, and Casey Adams. All graduated from KIPP Philadelphia charter schools.

The Hart scholarship  a partnership between the comedian's charity, KIPP, and the UNCF  was awarded based on students' academic and personal achievements and may be renewed.

Each honoree will attend a historically black college. Taylor will enroll in Clark Atlanta University in the fall; Smith and Walton will study at Lincoln University; Smalls and Fuller will attend Morehouse College; and Adams will soon begin studies at Spelman College.

"Education and knowledge are powerful," Hart said in a statement. "I just wanted to do my part in providing opportunities for our future leaders, especially from my Philly hometown, and show support for HBCUs. This is just the beginning; trust me when I tell you there are a lot more kids who want to go to college who don't have the money to make it happen."

The announcement, made in Los Angeles, was a closely held secret. Hart, who grew up in North Philadelphia and graduated in 1997 from George Washington High School, wanted to deliver the news to the students in person, officials said.

The scholarships are not Hart's first gift to UNCF. In 2015, he donated $100,000 to support four students' college education.

Michael L. Lomax, UNCF president, said that Hart's gift will support not just students, but historically black colleges and universities.

"Research shows that HBCUs matter, and that HBCU students are having a positive college experience, but they also have an unmet financial need," Lomax said in a statement. "Together, Kevin and KIPP have made an investment that will have a significant impact."
Former Sigma Sound Studios owner and engineer Joe Tarsia in 1981 photo. He hosted the party August 5, 2018 on the 50th anniversary of its opening. They were the studio where most of the the great Gamble and Huff Sound of Philadelphia music was recorded. COPY PHOTO -DO NOT CREDIT TOM GRALISH / Staff Photographer / CREDIT  Courtesy Arthur Stoppe Read more

Don't ask Joe Tarsia to toot his own horn.

Not even when the Sigma Sound Studios owner is hosting a reunion of former employees 50 years to the day since opening the recording studio that is synonymous with the Sound of Philadelphia.

At a South Philly banquet hall on Sunday, the founder of the North 12th Street studio that served as home base to TSOP architects Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff, and Thom Bell and that attracted such out-of-towners as David Bowie and Stevie Wonder made a few brief remarks.

Tarsia thanked the accountant who helped him get a loan to go into business for himself and gave all credit to the Sigma vets gathered before him. "I was able to attract the best technicians, the best engineers," Tarsia said. "And the history speaks for itself. Sigma  not me  has 200 gold and platinum records."

>> READ MORE: David Bowie's Philadelphia

While his guests reminisced over pasta and cannoli and signature sounds from Sigma's 1970s heyday, like the O'Jays' "Love Train" and Bowie's "Young Americans," Tarsia was willing to admit  when pressed  that he deserved some measure of credit.

"If I made a contribution, it was that Philadelphia had a unique sound," Tarsia says. "You could tell a record that came from Philly if you heard it on the radio.

"In those days, before the computer, records had personalities. There was the Motown sound. The Memphis sound. The Muscle Shoals sound. And there was the Sigma sound."

That sound was sophisticated, Tarsia says. "It was black music in a tuxedo." Philly Soul distinguished itself with lush arrangements that sweetened hard-driving R&B grooves with soaring strings. Tarsia gained technical expertise at the Cameo Parkway records studio on South Broad Street starting in 1962, where he worked on records by Chubby Checker and the Dovells, among others. But two years later, Dick Clark packed up American Bandstand and moved to California, and the music industry in Philadelphia collapsed.

In 1964, "the Beatles released 'I Want to Hold Your Hand'," Tarsia says. "Before, everybody was coming to the studio with jackets and ties on, and all of a sudden the musicians were wearing sandals. The culture changed in an instant. It was foreign to me. I was panicked."

Fortunately for Tarsia, Gamble and Huff and Bell were there to fill the void. "The Mighty Three" had been trying to get their foot in the door at Cameo. But, as Bell put it in an interview in 2013, "there weren't too many chocolate folks working in the building" at Cameo's office, which later became the offices of Gamble and Huff's Philadelphia International Records.

>> READ MORE: Thom Bell: No longer Silent in the Gamble and Huff Legacy

Working with Tarsia at Sigma Sound, Philadelphia International immediately had success with songs like Jerry Butler's "Only the Strong Survive," a Gamble and Huff production arranged by Bell and Bobby Martin.

It was one of the first of scores of hits the team would create. "It's the right place at the right time with the right people," said Jay Mark, a recording engineer who was Tarsia's third Sigma employee.

"There were a lot of creative people in Philly at the time," says Mark. "The music was there, and Joe was smart enough to recognize it."

"Kenny brought in these large orchestrations," Tarsia says. "Bell had some classical training. The strings, the horns. Then there's the ambiance, the echo that I used. All that gave Philadelphia a signature sound. And, of course, if it wasn't for Gamble and Huff and their music, none of it would have meant anything anyway."

Dirk Devlin was Sigma's sixth employee in 1971, starting out as a gofer, "sweeping up, cleaning toilets," during a Bell session for the Stylistic's first album, which produced the fluttery "Betcha By Golly, Wow." Soon, he became a full-fledged engineer.

"It all starts with Joe," Devlin says. "It really does." Devlin, who says Bell had a nickname for everyone he worked with  "I was 'Dirty Dastardly Deadly Dirk'"  worked for Sigma in Philadelphia and in the successful New York studio that Tarsia opened in 1978 in the Ed Sullivan Theatre building now home to Late Night with Stephen Colbert.

When he left the company, Devlin says, Tarsia "cut me a check. I'm not going to tell you how much it was, but it was profit sharing. Joe was incredible. He paid you double time if you worked over 50 hours. And we were working 80 or 90 hours a week. He got the best people because he was good to you. He was the best boss I ever had."

The Sigma sound, Devlin says, is a combination of "the Philadelphia Orchestra and gospel and jazz. And there's nothing subtle about the gospel. If you listen to Teddy Pendergrass, it comes straight from the church. You might as well be at Mt. Zion Baptist."

Devlin has fond memories of Philadelphia DJ Ed Sciaky getting Bruce Springsteen to take a bus to Philadelphia from Asbury Park to huddle with Bowie during the Young Americans sessions in 1974. And he recalls B.B. King and gospel greats the Mighty Clouds of Joy's thrilling visits to North 12th Street. "They all wanted a piece of it," he says.

>> READ MORE: Bruce Springsteen delivers 'Rebel Rebel!' tribute to David Bowie in Pittsburgh

But he points to being the recording engineer on McFadden and Whitehead's 1979 hit "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now" as his Sigma highlight. "It was great when it was the Phillies' or Sixers' or Eagles' theme songs," he says. "But when Barack Obama walked out on stage to it when he was first nominated to be president in 2008, to have it be presidential walk-on music, I was awestruck by that."

The success of Sigma's New York outpost, which Tarsia ran from 1977 to 1988, is not as well known. Madonna recorded her first album there, including "Holiday" and "Borderline." The Talking Heads, Whitney Houston, Paul Simon, and Elton John also recorded albums at Sigma NY. The brand's success was built on its Philadelphia track record, says Matthew Weiner, who worked there from 1978 to 1983. "It brought that R&B smarts up to New York."

Tarsia passed Sigma to his son Michael in 1990, and the family sold the business in 2003. In 2015, the building at 212 N. 12th was sold to real estate developers who gutted it before construction stalled. It's now a shell with a historical marker out front that proclaims Sigma "was known worldwide for its distinctive sound and recording innovation."

On Sunday, the former Sigma employees traded memories and told stories of the studio's glory days. Engineer Arthur Stoppe's photographs of staffers and stars were shown in a slide show set up next to the buffet table, where Tarsia and his wife Cecilia cut a 'Sigma's 50th' birthday cake.

Stoppe talked about Tarsia's gift for encouraging competition and cooperation among employees. He remembered recording Robert Hazard's "Escalator of Life" and delighted in telling a Stevie Wonder tale about his 1979 album Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants.

The blind musician was so aware of his surroundings, Stoppe said, that when he handed an engineer a cassette to play, he was able to identify the model number of the tape machine by the sound the door made when it dropped open. "I see you have a Nakamichi 700," he said.

The poignancy of Sunday's soiree was made greater because of the passage of time. "I'm 84 years old now," Tarsia said. "I don't buy green bananas." Cecilia Tarsia added, "It really is like a family. It's astounding how everyone's kept in touch."

Stoppe, who worked for Sigma for almost 25 years, waxed nostalgic about being so busy that a social life was impossible, with staff bonding over Broad Street Diner breakfasts at 4 in the morning after late-night sessions.

"It's pretty overwhelming to see all these people." Stoppe said. "Some came all the way from California. There is a chance that this could be the last gathering."
Independence Blue Cross, the area's largest private health insurer, is tightening restrictions on its members' access to OxyContin and its generic version, commonly prescribed pain relievers that experts say have contributed to the national opioid epidemic.

"Combating the opioid epidemic is a top priority at Independence Blue Cross," said Richard Snyder, chief medical officer at Independence. "We want our members to have access to the most cost-effective pain medication, while at the same time helping to reduce the risk of these drugs being abused."

Beginning Oct. 1, the extended-release oxycodone medications will be removed from some plans' formularies and others will require prior authorization for the opioids before prescriptions can be filled. This means patients will still be able to purchase the medications  but they will cost more.

>>READ MORE: When medication prices are unaffordable, patients travel abroad for a better deal

Instead, Independence will push members toward a newer brand, Xtampza XR, made by Collegium Pharmaceutical, which the insurer described as an "abuse-deterrent form of oxycodone" because it is harder to crush, grind, cut, and inject.

Any patients newly prescribed OxyContin, made by Purdue Pharma, or a generic version of it will first need to try Xtampza. Patients who already take OxyContin or generic will also need to try Xtampza when current prescriptions run out. After trying Xtampza, they and their doctors can seek authorization from Independence to switch back to OxyContin if necessary.

>>READ MORE: Opioids after wisdom teeth removal nearly triple risk of long-term use, study finds

The move builds on efforts by the insurer to reduce opioid prescribing.

Independence reported in July that opioid prescriptions declined 32 percent between 2013 and 2017 among its members in the Philadelphia region, which includes parts of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland.
Debris washed into Maryland waters from record rainfall accumulates around a sailboat in Annapolis, Md., on Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2018. Read more

Heavy rains and flood waters that flowed into the Chesapeake Bay in July might have exposed a serious problem along Maryland's border: Pennsylvania.

Record rains carried tons of sediment and debris over the Conowingo Dam, which regulates flow from the Susquehanna River coming out of Pennsylvania five miles upstream. The five days of rains from July 22 to 27 were so intense that the river ran three feet above flood stage, forcing Exelon  the power company that operates the dam  to open 20 flood gates. Flows at the dam exceeded 300,000 cubic feet per second, a rate not seen since Tropical Storm Lee in 2011.

As the gates opened, trash, wood, plastic, and other objects came spilling out into a mass thick enough that it completely surrounded boats and docks miles downstream. Sediment containing polluted suburban and agricultural runoff also poured out.

"To be blunt, we're literally drowning in Pennsylvania's trash, and I have a huge problem with that," said Peter Franchot, Maryland's comptroller.

Last week, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan complained about the debris, pointed to Pennsylvania as one of the culprits in the pollution, and called the situation "an economic and ecological crisis" before a meeting of the Maryland Board of Public Works. State officials said trees, tires, and garbage were floating in the bay, creating a hazard. They have also pointed fingers at Exelon.

Patrick McDonnell, secretary of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, called the remarks from the Maryland officials, "careless and insensitive," noting that two Pennsylvanians died in the flooding.

Hogan and McDonnell are both set to attend the executive council meeting for the Chesapeake Bay Program Tuesday. The program is a partnership between Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New York, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia, as well as the Environmental Protection Agency. Hogan said he would raise the issue at the meeting.

McDonnell said Monday in a statement that he plans to "outline Pennsylvania's extensive efforts and new initiatives to improve stream and river health throughout the Chesapeake Bay Watershed" as well as highlight the strides it has already made.

This is far from the first time Maryland and Pennsylvania have fought over cross-border pollution.

Last year, Maryland threatened to sue the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over failing to prevent smog-inducing pollution from Pennsylvania and other states from drifting over its border. The Maryland Department of the Environment singled out power plants in Pennsylvania and other states for what it said was a failure to use pollution-control equipment and for emitting nitrogen oxides, which combine with volatile organic compounds in sunlight to create ground level ozone, or smog.

Just last week, the EPA released a report on a federal effort to clean up the Chesapeake Bay by 2025. The agency said the states in the watershed "have made considerable progress" in reducing bay pollution. That includes record acreage of underwater grasses and the highest estimates of water quality standards attained in more than 30 years.

Though other states were also behind in some areas of cleanup, Pennsylvania scored the worst in agricultural and urban and suburban runoff, a major source of pollution.

Pennsylvania is particularly important for the cleanup. Though the Susquehanna River originates in New York, it flows the entire length of Pennsylvania and supplies half the bay's fresh water at a rate of 18 million gallons a minute. It has been estimated that 30 to 40 percent of the Chesapeake Bay's pollution comes from the Susquehanna.

"Pennsylvania is far behind," William C. Baker, president of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, said when the EPA report was released. "The Commonwealth must fund proven clean water initiatives specifically associated with helping farmers. If the state legislature does not fund efforts to reduce pollution in its next session, EPA must hold Pennsylvania accountable."

Baker cited the state legislature's failure to approve more funding. Indeed, there is ongoing debate in Pennsylvania over how to best establish a permanent clean water fund.

But the Pennsylvania DEP says the state has made progress in improving the quality of water within the Susquehanna watershed. The DEP says it has a statewide initiative to plant 95,000 acres of forest buffers. Farm inspections have increased. And the state is using data to focus on areas where efforts will have the biggest impact.

Regardless, Maryland is still dealing with the July debris and fears climate change will only bring more such events, said Ben Grumbles, the secretary of the state's Department of Environment. Officials were still coping with the debris and trash on the surface of the water, as well as potential pollution under the surface, when they were monitoring a controlled dam breach Monday at Cascade Lake to alleviate pressure after being swollen beyond capacity from the weekend's heavy rains.

"We're seeing more extreme events, Grumbles said. "The science is clear."
The perils of college drinking is an important topic that parents must discuss with their almost-of-age offspring. Read more

As parents engage in the annual ritual of taking their children to college, many for their freshman year, it's a critical time to talk about another ritual: fraternity and sorority hazing and binge drinking. Turns out it's not such a brotherly or sisterly behavior.

One piece of evidence for this occurred in February. Pledges to a Penn State fraternity were instructed to run a "gauntlet" where they chugged vodka, beer and wine, according to testimony given in a preliminary hearing in July. One college student died after he fell down stairs (twice) and suffered a brain injury, ruptured spleen, and collapsed lung. His blood-alcohol level was between 0.28 percent and 0.36 percent  more than four times the legal limit for drivers.

Its history. Hazing dates to 1845. It remains a rite of passage for many college fraternities and sororities. We all know that just because it is historical doesn't mean it's right or safe. In fact, there has been at least one hazing death each year from 1969 to 2017. Nowadays, more than 6,100 fraternity chapters exist on about 800 college campuses in the United States and Canada, according to data from the North American Interfraternity Conference. DePauw University in Indiana and Washington and Lee University in Virginia are two high scorers and are the only two colleges where more than three-quarters of male undergraduates are in fraternities. Like Penn State, great schools but, wow, so much Greek life!

Hazing is against the law. In legal terms, hazing is abuse a student must endure to gain admittance to an organization, and it can include forcing students to drink dangerous amounts of alcohol. Sounds like torture, right? Right! Most colleges and universities have policies against hazing. The criminal charge usually depends on whether the student suffers actual physical harm; if so, most states prosecute it as a felony. Eight of the fraternity students involved in the hazing death mentioned above were initially charged with such crimes as involuntary manslaughter, although those more serious counts were later dropped.

When hazing involves alcohol, it is binge drinking. How much is too much? The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines binge drinking as a pattern of drinking that brings a person's blood alcohol concentration above 0.08 grams percent. Translation: when men consume five or more drinks, and when women consume four or more drinks in about two hours. Not a happy hour!

Binge drinking and alcohol abuse have serious risks.

Related directly to the toxic effects of alcohol on the body: stroke, heart and liver diseases, cancers such as breast and gastrointestinal cancers; memory and learning problems.

Resulting from the altered mental state: Motor vehicle crashes and other accidents, homicide, suicide, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault

So should college fraternities and sororities be banned? No, but they should be better supervised. Drinking at colleges also occurs outside of fraternities and sororities. I would prefer that all college campuses be "dry." Unfortunately, I'm just one doctor. For some college students, drinking at college is often seen as a necessary part of their higher education experience. Again, here's the evidence: Almost 60 percent of college students between the ages of 18 and 22 drank alcohol in the last month, and almost two out of three of them engaged in binge drinking during that same time frame, according to a national survey. Researchers estimate that, each year, about 1,825 college students between the ages of 18 and 24 die from alcohol-related unintentional injuries, including motor vehicle accidents.

Drinking on college campuses affects everyone. Researchers estimate that about 696,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 are assaulted by another student who has been drinking, and about 97,000 students between the ages of 18 and 24 report experiencing alcohol-related sexual assault or date rape.

Parents, please don't think "not my child." Your teenagers probably won't tell you that they are drinking. Talk to them about this blog. Let's make hazing deaths history and keep binge drinking out of our kids' future.
A bright spike from a brain tumor stabs into the spongy mesh around it. Blobs of colon cancer, which vaguely resemble nebulae, light up blue against an otherwise black background. The border that divides these rapidly dividing masses from healthy tissue is plain to see.

In a study published Monday in the journal Nature Communications, scientists from Columbia University describe a new, noninvasive way to image cancer cells, as they ravage living tissue. Peering into live tissue to spot microscopic cancers  as well as signs of aging and normal development  could someday help physicians excise tumors that today evade even the most skilled surgeons.

Existing imaging techniques such as PET and MRI can image cancer in live tissues, but they "cannot separate every single cell," according to lead author and postdoctoral researcher Lingyan Shi. Tissue suspected of being cancerous can be cut out, treated with harsh chemicals, and scrutinized under a microscope, but that invasive process is not always practical.

To capture high-resolution images of cancer cells without razors and harsh chemicals, Shi's team put a clever spin on two familiar substances: water and light.

Water isn't much to look at under a microscope, yet living cells are full of it. To make cells more scenic, the team fed heavy water to several small animals  roundworms, mice, and the embryos of zebrafish  as well as to lab-grown human cells.

Heavy water  in which hydrogen molecules are replaced with a hydrogen isotope called deuterium  looks and tastes like regular water, but its extra density means it can be used as a chemical tracer inside living cells. Once inside, its heavier-than-normal atoms are plucked off and folded into the biomolecules that make cells run. Though most famous for its role in nuclear reactors, heavy water is safe to drink in very small quantities.

To get light to dance with the incorporated heavy atoms, a pair of lasers were shined onto the animals, tissues, and cells. Powerful microscopes were used to observe what happened.

Light makes different parts of a cell jiggle differently; molecules of DNA with heavy atoms attached vibrate in their own way, as do fat molecules and the atoms that make up proteins. By tuning their microscopes to the frequencies of each of these parts, the team could watch as heavy water was folded into the new cells.

Rapidly dividing cancer cells incorporate many heavy atoms, so they shine brightest. But the team was also able to watch molecules being made in other places, including the thin layer of fat that sheaths mouse brains during development and in clumps of proteins that accumulate in aging roundworms.

"By tracking where and when new proteins, lipids, and DNA molecules are made, we can learn more about how animals develop and age, and what goes wrong in the case of injury and disease," said senior author Wei Min, professor of chemistry at Columbia University, in a statement.

Shi hopes someday heavy water and miniaturized microscopes placed on the tips of endoscopes could help physicians diagnose and even operate on cancer. Glioblastoma, the type of aggressive brain cancer than Arizona Senator John McCain is fighting, is difficult to treat via surgery  removing too much tissue risks brain damage, removing too little leaves the seeds of future tumors behind. Shi said the new technique "clearly shows the difference in metabolic activity between the tumor cells and healthy cells."

The technique will undoubtedly lead to scientific insights, said Ji-Xin Cheng, a professor of chemistry and physics at Boston University who was not involved in the study. But using it to detect cancer in the clinic will depend on whether enough heavy water can be administered without making patients sick, he said.
Annie Weiss, 31, of West Conshohocken, bought a box of diapers from Wegmans in King of Prussia, Pa., and found a graphic anti-abortion card inside. Wegmans told The Inquirer it found about 10 such cards tucked into various products and at least one other shopper had contacted them. Read more

It's a matter of pure luck that Annie Weiss didn't do what she sometimes does when opening a diaper box the other day: Ask her 4-year-old son to reach in and help unpack the supplies mom had just bought for his 2-year-old sister.

Had the boy done that on Monday with a box of Luvs that his mom had bought from a Wegmans supermarket in King of Prussia, the preschooler would have seen a photo of a dead fetus in an open palm.

The graphic antiabortion missive, printed onto a business card broadcasting www.abolishhumanabortion.com, apparently had been slipped into the box at the store.

"I can't imagine if he had found that," the still-shaken 31-year-old mother told me as we met at her Conshohocken home Tuesday morning. "I don't even know what I would have had to say to him."

Weiss, a Cherry Hill native who's raising her family in Montgomery County, was horrified to make the discovery while in her kitchen Monday. She called Wegmans; she posted an outraged, homemade video showing her discovery on a prominent Main Line Facebook page, and, after I reached out, agreed to talk to me, too.

Her message  and I couldn't agree with her more on it: "I don't care if you're pro-life or pro-choice; I care about the fact that you're invading my privacy. When you're sticking it in my face in a box of diapers, now I don't have a choice. I have to look at it."

Sadly, she wasn't the only one hit by this appalling act of misguided advocacy.

A spokesperson for the Rochester, N.Y.-based chain of family-owned stores told me Tuesday this was not an isolated incident  and they are investigating.

"Over the weekend, there was one other customer who had a similar experience (different product) purchased at the King of Prussia store, followed by the customer you spoke with," spokeswoman Jo Natale told me by email.

She said that store employees "immediately scoured the shelves," after which they found "approximately 10 similar cards tucked in a variety of products on the grocery shelves."

As of Tuesday morning, Natale said, "we have no idea who is doing this, but our asset protection team is investigating to determine what our next steps should be."

No other store appeared to have been targeted in this way, she added.

I sent a message to the so-called abortion abolitionists whose web address was on the card in question, but I did not immediately hear back.

I had reached out to Weiss after seeing an angry post she had made on the Facebook page, Lower Merion Community Network, Monday night. She was livid  and wanted people to know what an appalling intrusion into her privacy this was.

When we met at her home earlier Tuesday, she impressed upon me that her outrage wasn't based on ideology but on the extreme tactic that this represented.

For any other person, she said, finding that card might have triggered a traumatic response. Say you'd ever lost a child during pregnancy or after childbirth; this would not have been a benign discovery.

I can't wait to hear from Wegmans as its investigation unfolds. Whatever charges are allowable under the law are in order for whoever did this.

Let me be clear, of course, that advocacy is noble and a right in this country.

Just a few days ago, Weiss was in New York City and passed a Planned Parenthood protest in the street. She had the option to walk on by  and she did, she said. But this gruesome, desperate maneuver of infiltrating your shopping cart, she said, crosses a line that no one should think is OK.

"Everybody knows somebody who's been affected by the whole pro-choice/pro-life argument, and it's never been in my face that way," she said, "until yesterday."

It's no secret to anyone that the tone of political debate in our country right now is bordering on toxic during all hours of the day and night. It's also no secret that the abortion-rights divide has been a lightning rod for decades, with opponents and supporters only more entrenched as a new Supreme Court is expected to potentially radically redraw what is and isn't allowed under federal law.

But what's not so evident  and what this Conshohocken mother has the courage to show us all  is that common decency has a voice, too. And it is only when decent people like Weiss decide to take a stand that anyone can see just how off-the-mark caustic extremism can look when it bubbles to the surface.

I'll be following this case as it unfolds. Until we know who was behind this, let's thank Weiss for not fearing the scorn of the social-media slayers. Let's thank her for producing a video of the diaper box, and the card, and posting it onto Facebook as an alert to other shoppers.

Let's thank her, above all, for showing us all the power of commonsense outrage  and having the guts to share it with the world.

If they find who did this inside a private establishment, I'd agree with the one idea that Weiss threw my way as we imagined what sort of penalty would be appropriate.

"I would just love for them to publish their face everywhere," she said. "It could be your neighbor, It could be your best friend. This would just let people know who their friends are."
Blaze Bernstein with his parents, Gideon and Jeanne Bernstein, in California on New Year's Eve just two days before his death. Read more

The accused killer of Blaze Bernstein, a University of Pennsylvania student who was slain earlier this year in California, has been charged with a hate crime.

Authorities in Orange County say Samuel Lincoln Woodward  a member of a neo-Nazi group  killed Bernstein for being gay.

Bernstein, a Penn psychology student who was visiting his Southern California hometown on winter break, disappeared Jan. 2 after driving to Borrego Park in Lake Forest with Woodward. After a weeklong search, Orange County investigators found his body in a shallow grave. He had been stabbed numerous times.

>> READ MORE: Slain Penn student Bernstein was 'raised to be an activist,' mom says

"We live in a world where hate is real," Bernstein's parents, Gideon and Jeanne Bernstein, said in a statement from the Orange County District Attorney's Office announcing the charges. "We continue to look towards the future and what we can do to make a difference."

Woodward and Bernstein both attended the Orange County School of the Arts in Santa Ana, Calif.

Woodward told authorities that Bernstein had tried to kiss him on the lips just hours before the Penn student's disappearance, an affidavit obtained by the Orange County Register said. Authorities said an examination of Woodward's cell phone, laptop, and social media "revealed the dark side of Woodward's thoughts and intentions."

>> READ MORE: Former teacher, schoolmate recall alleged killer of Penn student as humorless and strange
Even Pope Francis heard about Pennsylvania's probe into Catholic Church sex abuse. Read more

In anticipation of findings, however redacted, of a statewide grand jury investigation into sex abuse in six Pennsylvania Catholic dioceses, I revisited a 2005 grand jury report on the same topic in Philadelphia.

Thirteen years later, it's as horrific as it was back then.

Findings included "how dozens of priests (at least 63) sexually abused hundreds of children" and "how Philadelphia Archdiocese officials  including Cardinal Bevilacqua and Cardinal Krol  excused and enabled the abuse."

Details were sickening.

"We mean rape. Boys who were raped orally, boys who were raped anally, girls who were raped vaginally."

Specifics were worse.

An 11-year-old girl whose priest raped her, and when she became pregnant took her for an abortion.

A boy who woke intoxicated in a priest's bed to find a priest performing oral sex on him while three other clerics watched.

There was much more.

And the cover-up was found to be "at least as immoral as the abuse itself."

After the report's release, I wrote the shortest column of my career. Three sentences: "Know what I hope? I hope all those Catholic priests are right. I hope there is a hell."

Now, here we go again. Another grand jury. More specifics. And, no doubt, more immoral cover-up.

The issue, if one can call it that (it's more of an abomination), always raised questions for me because of my own education.

As the product of a Catholic grade school, a Catholic high school, and an all-male Catholic college, I never once heard a whisper of anything approaching sexual abuse by clergy.

Never. Not during. Not since.

Well, at least not since the release last week (updated this week) by the Diocese of Harrisburg: 72 names of priests, other clergy, and seminarians accused of sexual abuse of children.

The list included priests I knew or met as a high school student, or later in Catholic parishes. One named priest was a fellow student of mine in grade school.

But, like most veteran journalists, I'm long since inoculated against surprise. I wasn't stunned to find familiar names.

In fact, it underscored my troubled thinking on the topic. Which is this: Clearly, abuse has always been there. Imagine the pained silence of generations. How many never came forward? How many still don't? How many never will?

And the torment is the fact that evil done by "men of God" hidden for so long is doubly malevolent. It allowed more evil to stay hidden longer.

It prevented (overdue) child-protection efforts by the church, from Rome on down, that could have started decades ago.

There could have been fewer victims. There could have been transparency, education, moral leadership.

As is, state Attorney General Josh Shapiro's grand jury report is to be released any day now after a nearly two-year investigation of the Dioceses of Allentown, Erie, Greensburg, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and Scranton.

It's 900 pages, covers decades, and found more than 300 "predator priests."

The state Supreme Court ordered its release after a legal fight, but agreed to redact names of those challenging findings on grounds their rights weren't represented in front of the grand jury.

Shapiro's been aggressive. With the investigation. In fighting for release of findings. Even in writing Pope Francis for aid in ending church resistance to making findings public.

So, he was blasted this week by the Catholic League, a New York-based antidefamation group, as "Salacious Shapiro," interested solely in embarrassing the church with explicit details of abuse.

A statement from league president Bill Donohue argues Shapiro singled out the church: "A grand jury report on sexual misconduct in any institution could also serve the prurient interests of the public."

This is the ever-popular everybody-does-it defense. But crimes are crimes. And crimes committed against children are the worst. Especially when committed by clergy. Then covered up. Why wouldn't any prosecutor always go after the worst?

I suspect among hard-core church supporters there's an ugly undercurrent of, well, you know, Shapiro's Jewish, as is former Philly DA Lynne Abraham, who released the `05 report. And isn't that a little suspicious?

No. That's a little anti-Semitic.

And as for me? I still hope there's a hell.
This is a story about (a) the Bucks County Center for the Performing Arts in Doylestown, in just its second year; (b) Jim Raposa and Claudia Shell-Raposa, a couple with deep Broadway cred, now working on the center's next show, A Chorus Line; and (c) Shell-Raposa herself, choreographer, doing daily rehearsals while in the midst of her second round of weekly chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Jim, directing A Chorus Line, credits local producer Howard Perloff with "really insisting that this part of Bucks should have an arts center of the highest quality." The cast for Chorus Line is from all over: Doylestown, New York, and Philadelphia.

Claudia says, "We are working at 150 percent Broadway skill level here. It's an amazing, very talented cast. I was over at the theater just now. It's a dry tech day. The mirrors are going up; we'll be ready to go on Wednesday."

So  how are you, Claudia? Her words show she is drawing strength from all around her, particularly from A Chorus Line itself. "When I got the job," she says, "I didn't know I was sick. This is my all-time favorite show, though, so I knew I was going to do it if at all possible. Besides not having the stamina I usually have, and just being tired, I just try to push through, because the show really does speak to me, and it has such great heart. Of course, when I get home, I throw myself down on the bed.

"A Chorus Line is really about my life," she says, "being a musical theater performer, having that great passion for what you do. And the collaborative aspect is comforting, everybody working on a common goal with great love." Responding with intense work, the cast "has really jelled into this loving family," she says, "and that's why this will be a hit, because you can feel that. It's palpable."

A Chorus Line. Aug. 8-19, Bucks County Center for the Performing Arts. Delaware Valley University Life Sciences Building, Delaware Valley University, 700 E. Butler Ave., Doylestown. Information: : 215-297-8540, buckscountycpa.org.
Fergus Carey (left) and Jim McNamara behind the bar at Fergie's. Read more

Fergie's Pub, the popular Center City haunt, has new owners.

Founder Fergus Carey has completed a buy-in from Jim McNamara, who has worked at and managed the bar for almost its entire existence, along with Rebecca Strapp, McNamara's former girlfriend and a bartender at Garage.

McNamara, Strapp, and Carey signed off on paperwork Monday, capping a waiting period by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. Strapp will be an investor, not involved in day-to-day operations, Carey and McNamara said.

Carey had wanted a new partner to replace  at least in strict business terms  his cofounder Wajih Abed, who died of cancer in 2017.

"It was just a really great opportunity to buy into a bar that I love," said McNamara, 47, who grew up in Oreland, Montgomery County. When offered the chance, "I'd have been a fool to say no."

McNamara and Carey insist that changes are not in the works. "Fergie knows his brand," McNamara said.

Carey added that the bar had just signed a new, 10-year lease.

Abed (who had bartended at the old Bookbinders Seafood House) and Carey (a former bartender at McGlinchey's) opened Fergie's, at 1214 Sansom St., on Nov. 28, 1994, after modestly refurbishing the longtime German restaurant Hoffman House, which had sank into dive-bar status.

McNamara said he has been with Fergie's "almost 24 years," prompting the puckish Carey to chime in, "minus time off for good behavior."

This post has been updated to reflect Rebecca Strapp's ownership stake, which had not been disclosed during the reporting.
Lily Sage, 23, the daughter of Philly Goat Project director Karen Krivit mixes it up with the projects goats July 29, 2018. They are corralled in a mildly electrified fence so they can eat the weeds, before the fence is moved to another section of the grounds in need of clearing. Not only can goats eat plants other animals avoid, they actually prefer them  a single goat can eat eight pounds of weeds a day. The project offers goats for "yard work," as well as for education/awareness purposes, like goat therapy and goat yoga. Read more

On a recent Sunday afternoon in East Germantown, drivers and pedestrians on Ardleigh Street spotted something unusual: five goats of various sizes crossing the street under the watchful eye of Karen Krivit, the founder of the Philly Goat Project.

Visitors who had shown up to walk the goats led their hoofed companions down the sidewalk on ropes, snapping pictures of them and petting their backs affectionately. As for the goats, they were more interested in scarfing down "goat potato chips," or dried leaves  a crunchy, salty pick-me-up for when they're on the go  whenever they came across one on the sidewalk.

"No snacking!" Krivit said as she led the group past a lawn that the goats eyed hungrily. "This is a working walk. We have to stay on task."

The Philly Goat Project currently includes miniature Nigerian Dwarf goats Ivy, Anthony, and Bebito, and mixed-breed goats Oliver and Oonagh. The goats offer therapy, visit schools to teach students about nature, munch on unwanted invasive species in people's backyards, and provide other ecological experiences in Philadelphia. The goal, according to Krivit, is to increase community engagement by bringing this agricultural experience to an urban landscape in an environmentally responsible way.

Twice a week, they do a community walk, during which anyone can come to Awbury Agricultural Village, where the goats live, to meet and learn about the project. (Want to participate? Head to the Awbury Agricultural Village, in Awbury Arboretum. No notice required.)

Krivit, a social worker, conceptualized the project a year ago in order to increase community engagement and provide animal therapy for people with special needs. Eventually, Krivit said, the project will expand to include goat "landscaping," goat yoga, and maybe even goat products, such as milk and cheese.

"Typically animal therapy is done with dogs or horses, but those animals are not as versatile as goats," Krivit said. "Goats are a lot smaller and easier to transport." (The goats will soon have their own van, allowing them to be transported around the city safely.)

For this reason, Krivit was adamant that the Philly Goat Project had to based in Philadelphia and be accessible via public transportation for those who participate in the project. This proved to be a challenge, as the city's zoning laws require anyone with farm animals to have at least three acres of land. She reached out to a number of people before settling on Awbury Arboretum.

"When people meet our goats, they're super surprised by how trainable and funny they are," Krivit said. "Goats are definitely animals with a sense of humor."

Chris and Malia Neal brought their 1-year-old son, Leo, to Awbury on Sunday to meet the goats. Malia follows the arboretum on social media and the new parents are always looking for something interactive to do with their son.

"He pet a goat today for the first time," Chris said. "Leo was very brave. We all had a great time."

The Philly Goat Project started in February when Krivit enlisted her daughter, Lily Sage, as well as dozens of volunteers to help her clear an area at the arboretum for a goat barn. Krivit said the project didn't cost a lot of money, but it took a lot of people to get it off the ground smoothly. She scaled back her hours as a social worker and reached out to friends and family for donations, eventually securing supplies from friends and Home Depot. Hector Vega, the landscape foreman at Awbury, assisted Krivit with the land-clearing and barn-raising  so much so, that she named Bebito after Vega's nephew who was shot and killed in February. In May, they finally acquired their first goats.

"We really want to expand responsibly," Sage said. "We've been careful about where we get our goats, because we want them to get used to things. It's just as unsafe to introduce a new goat to an existing biome and vice versa."

Because the goats are meant to be therapy animals as well as foliage clearers, Krivit selected goats with calm temperaments who were interested in having relationships with people. She worked hard to socialize them to dogs. Sage also taught the goats how to do tricks in English, Spanish, and nonverbal cues. Currently the goats can give kisses, spin in circles, shake hands, and climb on people's backs on command.

But the goats' favorite activity is still eating  they can devour up to 25 percent of their body weight per day. Krivit purchased solar-powered electric fencing to control which areas the goats grazed in.

"This Christmas, we're going to hold a Christmas-tree-eating contest for them," Krivit said. "We'll time them and see who finishes a Christmas tree the fastest."

More immediately, there will be a dedication ceremony for the goats in September. Krivit plans to use this as an opportunity to recognize the work put into the project by volunteers.

"Starting something new can feel really isolating, but knowing that the city is with us is awesome," Sage said. "It feels a bit like a treasure hunt, like we're waiting for the next thing to uncover itself."
We tell ourselves stories in order to live.

 Joan Didion, "The White Album," 1979

Of all the stories making the rounds these days, none has more currency than the saga of Watergate  the epic scandal that mesmerized America for more than two years and resulted in the resignation of President Richard Nixon, exactly 44 years ago this Wednesday night.

For anyone old enough to get an unsolicited AARP membership card in the mailbox, the evening of Aug. 8, 1974, is every bit as memorable as the moon walk, the JFK assassination, or, much later, 9/11. By the bitter end of his presidency, Nixon had become the living embodiment of all that had gone wrong for the prior 10 years  his "secret plan for ending the Vietnam War" that actually meant expanding it for several years, the corruption he was supposed to clean up but which festered right in his Oval Office  and he had virtually no public support.

People should have poured into the streets to celebrate Nixon's downfall, and a few did, but most folks were simply too exhausted by 1974. I was a 15-year-old kid with scruffy sideburns growing up in the suburbs north of New York City; my dad was out of town on a business trip and our color console TV had been broken for a couple of years  that sort of thing happened a lot in the shabby 1970s  so a few friends of my mom dropped in and out and we watched the president resign on a small, fuzzy black-and-white screen, plopped down on our living-room couch.

The vibe was more one of quiet satisfaction, the arrival  finally  of justice deferred. A teenage Watergate geek who raced home from summer day camp every afternoon to watch John Dean testify before a special Senate committee (45 years later, John and I are virtual friends who trade messages on Twitter  what a world!), I wanted to hold on to every second of Aug. 8, 1974. I stayed up until 1 a.m., when the TV talking heads were running out of things to say, then 2 a.m., when they broadcast what was clearly Nixon's canned obituary (presumably readied in case of an assassination, since those were happening a lot), then finally 2:30 a.m. or so, when "The Star-Spangled Banner" blared from the tiny tube and I found myself staring at a test pattern.

The moral of the story, as uttered again and again by the TV news anchors, was clear. The president was in fact a crook, after all, but when that realization came, his high crimes and misdemeanors were investigated and exposed and then power was transferred peacefully to a new leader  all in our most exceptional of nations. The system worked. Good night from NBC News.

Flash-forward to America's current existential crisis, and suddenly Watergate is blasting everywhere like some kind of ABBA-and-Bachman-Turner-Overdrive-infused "Have a Nice Day" nostalgia CD.

Turn on your (hopefully not black and white) TV on any given night and you are certain to see either Dean himself, now 79 and a blistering critic of the Republican Party that once nurtured him, or former young-and-restless Watergate prosecutors like Nick Ackerman or Jill Wine-Banks, brought in to pound on the notes that, no, the Watergate echoes are not your imagination and, yes, this Russia thing sure looks a lot like what brought down Nixon.

The other night, MSNBC (which, to my knowledge, has never previously aired a scripted Hollywood movie) trolled the Trump White House by broadcasting in its entirety All the President's Men  the 1976 classic about how two then-unknown young reporters broke the early scoops that kept the Watergate story alive.

But in case you weren't convinced that the Trump-Russia scandal is the Son of Watergate, those actual journalists, Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward, are still out there pounding the pavement  Bernstein with a scoop for CNN on what the president knew and when he allegedly knew it about the June 2016 meeting with Russians at Trump Tower, and Woodward with a Trump tome slated to strike on Sept. 11, 2018.

It's true  the similarities between some of the basic facts in Watergate and the core Trump-Russia allegations are stunning. In June 1972, burglars were arrested trying to break in to the Democratic National Committee headquarters to plant bugs and telephone taps to sway that year's presidential election, while in June 2016, Russian hackers who'd broken electronically into the Democratic National Committee computers leaked info meant to sway that year's presidential election. Nixon ultimately resigned because of his efforts to interfere with the FBI probe of the break-in, while Trump once all but confessed to doing the same thing. Trump conceded that the June 2016 confab among his son, other top aides, and Russian players was an effort to gain political dirt on his opponent on Aug. 5  the 44th anniversary of Nixon's release of a "smoking gun" tape that proved his own involvement in a cover-up.

But it goes beyond the mere facts. In 2018, with a nightmare 21st-century president who alternately bleats lies or unvarnished racism from a handheld device, who appears to have been elected America's president with the help of an international criminal conspiracy, Watergate has become the story we tell ourselves in order to live.

The emotional pull of seeing the aging lions who brought down Nixon night after night, the thrill of seeing a Carl Bernstein byline taking on a modern president, the swelling drama of a movie like All the President's Men all carries a subliminal message, that the system that worked in 1974 is going to work again  maybe not this week, but soon.

Isn't it pretty to think so? The reality, of course, is that while some of the giants of the Watergate era still roam the earth, the planet that they inhabit is nothing like the world that existed two score and four years ago  mainly because the powerful institutions that supported the Nick Ackermans and the Jill Wine-Bankses and the Woodwards and Bernsteins have collapsed.

Go back and watch All the President's Men as I did the other night, and one of the most striking things about the film (aside from the clever, grown-up dialogue and the brilliant direction by Alan J. Pakula) is how many people were trusting and would readily divulge key information to two journalists they'd never met before  even (not always, but sometimes) when they knocked on the doors of strangers' homes late at night. That level of public trust  or naivete, perhaps  is long gone. After Watergate we paid lip service to journalism with moves like the Freedom of Information Act, but the reality is that FOIA laws are honored mostly in the breach, and where journalists can go and whom they can talk to is greatly restricted, as evidenced most famously by the holding pens for reporters at Trump rallies.

Sure, Nixon and his chief hatchet man, Vice President Spiro Agnew, waged war on the "nattering nabobs of negativism" in the media, but Trump has taken that to 1930s-Europe levels with his "enemies of the people" shtick, and the 45th president also has something that the 37th president would have killed for  a network that includes the top-rated cable news channel, a ring of talk-radio stations, and online news sites that can present "alternative facts" for his rabid base.

In 1974, idealistic young prosecutors like Ackerman and Wine-Banks were able to take on an imperial president because the political system  especially Congress  was still committed to fundamental notions of democracy. Some of that was ideology  you actually had such a thing as "liberal Republicans" like Connecticut Sen. Lowell Weicker who could be a thorn in Nixon's side  but some of that was real accountability; the Senate voted 77-0 in February 1973, when the president was at the peak of his power, to investigate Watergate. That simply would not happen today, not with Republicans answering to voters who claim they'd prefer Vladimir Putin over Hillary Clinton.

The other difference, though, is the man in the Oval Office. Nixon  for all his paranoia and the illegality of his campaign dirty tricks  still respected the guardrails of constitutional democracy enough that he didn't destroy the White House tapes, didn't defy the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court when he was ordered to turn them over, and even voluntarily released that "smoking gun" tape with an acknowledgment that he would be impeached. (Instead, he resigned after a delegation of GOP senators urged him to do so; could you imagine Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell  after shredding the Constitution to get Neil Gorsuch on the Supreme Court  doing the same?)

Trump, on the other hand, is a graduate of the despicable "fixer" Roy Cohn's school of political diplomacy  deny everything, admit nothing, lie profusely, and when those don't work, sue everybody in sight. There's little doubt that had Trump been president in 1974, he would not think twice about doing the things that even Richard Nixon would not do  ripping America apart and maybe even threatening a civil war, all for the sole purpose of saving his own narcissistic hide.

Watergate remains a hell of a story, but when you plop it down in a new millennium  where the bitter seeds of an American strain of fascism have already been planted  it should be read more as a myth. The fatal flaw in the storyline is the idea that a few heroes  ink-stained wretches and wide-eyed kids straight out of law school or a wise judge like John J. Sirica or a jowly senator like Sam Ervin  can take down the excesses of the Trump presidency.

That's not meant to sound hopeless. It's just that we're going have to rework the plot. And since the institutions that snapped back in 1974 are now broken and largely out of commission, it means the new heroes are going to be everyday people. There is no swelling Hollywood score. Instead, people are going to have to vote in November as they've never voted before and protest and march and make phone calls and  hardest of all  take the kind of risks that people in other endangered nations are accustomed to taking, and that Americans aren't. It's not Watergate II: The Sequel, and there's no guarantee of a happy ending. But it's the story that we'll need to write for ourselves in order to live.
Temple University's interim business school dean apologized for this year's rankings scandal and said the school is aiming for a "thorough scrubbing" of its human resource and data oversight in hopes of rejoining outside rankings in the next six to eight months.

Following the shocking rankings scandal, dean Ronald C. Anderson said Temple's business school is juggling a twofold mission: to de-emphasize the importance of rankings in its own culture, and at the same time, to clean up the internal process by which the school compiles data for the highly competitive outside rankings, which are collected by outlets such as U.S. News and World Report, the Financial Times, and the Economist.

"Are rankings important? Yes. Oftentimes students make decisions based on rankings. In some point in the next six to eight months, I hope we have our processes in place to get back into the rankings," Anderson said.

But he stressed that the "rankings will be an outcome of our education, rather than an input. One thing we see in the business-school environment, it's incredibly competitive. Everyone's trying to get the edge. But what's more important to students is outcomes. Are they getting good jobs? Are they getting into good grad schools? At Temple, they are. The rankings, as a consequence, should be a reflection of that," he said.

Internally, Temple is restructuring various departments to ensure the rankings scandal "can't happen again. Anyplace there may have been incentive conflicts, we've separated those. The restructuring is also getting better delineation of duties. We're bringing in new human resource managers, new finance people, and better oversight. Just as important, we're setting up internal control systems to ensure multiple levels of oversight and review for any issues like this," he added.

The interim dean, who is expected to stay in the position for one to two years, met with Temple faculty last week to reiterate that "we went off track administratively. Our programs are still incredible values, we have very high-quality faculty."

The reaccreditation process is still expected to be completed by January 2019, he said.

Anderson replaces Moshe Porat, who was forced out after a university investigation found the school knowingly submitted false rankings data about its online MBA program to U.S. News. Porat had led the school since 1996.

Temple's Fox School of Business is celebrating its centennial this year, enrolls more than 9,000 students and employs more than 225 full-time faculty across nine departments.

Temple self-reported its data errors, and U.S. News earlier this year stripped the school of the No. 1 ranking for its online MBA program. Jones Day law firm, subsequently hired by the university, found that over multiple years, Fox reported inaccurate data concerning the number of entrants who provided GMAT scores, the mean undergraduate GPA of entrants, the offers of admission, and student debt.

"During the period Jones Day was doing the review we  had a long, quiet period. The faculty were a bit anxious. We spent a lot of time talking about the changes we need to make culturally and in governance," Anderson said. Apart from Jones Day, Temple is negotiating to bring in other outside consultants as part of its overall business-school review.

"We're continuing to conduct reviews. We will be bringing in some more outside firms to review data and data processes. We'll also be relying on Temple internal audit. We're going to do a thorough scrubbing of the data," Anderson said.

He declined to say which outside consultants would be retained, saying "we're still in negotiations."

As for students' reaction, he said, "I've learned a lot. The students in our existing masters programs, the ones where we misreported data, are a bit angry at us. We knowingly misreported, so we own this problem now. We tell them, we'll fix it. They feel they were misled somewhat."

Are students sticking by Temple? Yes, he said, but many remain angry. Anderson declined to comment on pending litigation, in particular a lawsuit filed by some current and former MBA students.

"I've been really emphasizing this is not an academic-program problem, but an administrative problem. We went off track administratively. Our programs are still incredible values, we have very high-quality faculty."

His message: "The biggest thing we want to get out there is we're being incredibly proactive in ensuring this doesn't happen again."

Under the prior dean, business-school faculty complained that they were forced to do fund-raising for the school in addition to teaching.

Asked whether that would change under his leadership, Anderson said, "I see fund-raising as more of a dean's-office position. As a department chair of finance, I engaged in fund-raising, but it's not a faculty responsibility. First and foremost, they should be creating and disseminating knowledge."

Anderson said the one message he wanted to get out to the public was the following: "To our students and our stakeholders, I want to sincerely apologize. It shouldn't have happened at Fox, and we own this problem. I want them to know my colleagues and I apologize for what happened."
Brendan Lafferty was an uncle. His niece, Alma, and nephew, Pablo, would jump into his arms the instant they saw him, eager for hours of attention.

He was a friend. "I felt like we always had this bond," said Christian Barlow, who met Brendan at St. Joseph's Prep and remained his close friend. "He had that effect on a lot of people."

He was a drummer with a rock band, which his sister Ellen Browning-Lafferty observed was a metaphor for his life. "He could help keep the beat that everyone else could sync up to," she said.

It was not a simple rhythm, but full of syncopations and complexities. His friends called him the glue that held them together.

"From the time I met him, I felt he was a brother," Barlow said. "You could talk about anything, laugh about anything, and know he wasn't judging me."

Barlow went off to college and medical school. In between, he lived with Brendan for two years. "He always felt like home," Barlow said. "Even when my parents moved away, I'd come back and stay with him."

Brendan Browning Lafferty, 33, a musician, uncle, and steadfast friend, died on the sidewalk Saturday, Aug. 4, outside his South Philadelphia apartment house as he was about to step into an Uber car. He was going to spend the night with his niece and nephew at his mother's home in West Mount Airy.

His family said they believed Brendan died of a heart attack, but the Philadelphia Medical Examiner's Office said it was too soon to know the cause of death.

"The Medical Examiner's Office has not made a ruling, and it's listed as pending investigation," emailed James Garrow, spokesperson for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, which includes the coroner's office.

Brendan's father, James M. Lafferty, a lawyer for Community Legal Services, also died young. Just 49, he collapsed in 1999 while riding his bike in Chestnut Hill. The cause of death was a heart attack.

Brendan was born in Philadelphia to Jim Lafferty and Sharon Browning. He graduated from St. Joe's Prep in 2003.

He was serious about many things, but he was also the wittiest person in the room, his family said. In 2001, at 16, he joined an 18-person peace delegation to El Salvador from St. Vincent's Catholic Church in Germantown, where his family worshipped. That year the beleaguered country's currency, known as colons, had been devalued to practically nothing.

One morning, he woke up covered with tropical bugs that had fallen on him during the night. He jumped up. "I feel like a million colons," he said.

He was equally quick with a reaction in sad situations, said his sister Kate Browning-Lafferty. "He's the one who always made it bearable with his humor."

The traditional path of college in four years after high school didn't fit Brendan, and after returning to Philadelphia from Earlham College, he worked his way through the University of Pennsylvania. He graduated in 2012 with a degree in political science.

"It took a lot of guts to know it was not the right time to stay in college, to get out and find his way," said Steve Oldham, who taught him at St. Joseph's Prep. Oldham would talk about Brendan, anonymously, every year in his ethics class.

"I use him as an example of taking 'the road less traveled,' learning to use his hands in the carpentry trade, playing music with a band, living with other ex-Prepsters, and eventually deciding to return to school with a more mature, empowering vision," Oldham said. "He went back when it was right."

His circle of friends looked upon Brendan as a brother.

"If I had anything momentous happening in my life, anything important I needed to share, he was the first person I'd call," said Matt Duke, who played with Brendan in the Philadelphia rock group Seamus Browning. "I wanted to sit with him and talk with him about everything going on with me," Duke said.

Mostly, his friends and family remembered his gentleness, much like his father, who died when Brendan was 14.

"He had a degree of empathy developed at a young age, some people don't get until later or they never get," said his sister Ellen. "He was so smart. He used his intelligence for good."

Besides his mother, Sharon, sisters Ellen and Kate, niece Alma, and nephew Pablo, he is survived by an extended family.

There will be a wake from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 10, at the Irish Center at 6815 Emlen St. in Mount Airy, and a memorial service at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 11, at St. Vincent's Roman Catholic Church, 109 E. Price St. in Germantown. Interment is at Calvary Cemetery, Conshohocken.

Donations may be made to Just Listening via www.Justlistening.net.
A promising Vanguard Group executive has left the company, instead of taking the top post he was given to oversee a key growth business for the Malvern investment giant.

In June, Vanguard CEO Tim Buckley named Phil Korenman, 37, to head Personal Advisor Services (PAS). The company is counting on the unit, which charges clients fees to advise on their investments, to help boost Vanguard revenues as fund management fees fall toward zero amid industry automation and competition. Korenman had earlier led the group that developed PAS while he was a Vanguard corporate strategist.

A Bloomberg analyst has called PAS "the Amazon of finance" for its impact on retail competitors. PAS assets have topped $100 billion, a small but fast-growing fraction of Vanguard clients' $5 trillion total, which largely includes low-fee stock and bond mutual funds and exchange-traded funds based on the S&P 500 and other market indices.

The appointment was to take effect this month, with Korenman replacing Frank Kolimago, a veteran Vanguard executive moving to Australia to head the company's business there, so former Vanguard Australia chief Colin Kelton can head back to Malvern as the parent company's top marketing officer.

But Korenman didn't take the top PAS job on schedule in August, and has instead left the company that was his only corporate home since he finished his undergraduate management degree at Penn State in 2002, Vanguard insiders told me.

"We are actively searching for a new head of Vanguard Personal Advisor Services," Vanguard spokesperson Emily M. Farrell confirmed. Korenman "is no longer with the company." Vanguard wouldn't say what sparked the change in plans. Korenman didn't respond to attempts to reach him online. Current and former Vanguard staff who worked with Korenman called him affable, and his sudden departure a mystery.

In an email last week to staff, Korenman's boss and past mentor, Vanguard retail chief Karin Risi, acknowledged the group had gone through a "less than awesome" time and an unusual management meeting, but assured them the unexpected leadership transition won't slow progress on adopting consultants' recommendations to speed PAS growth. She batted away suggestions PAS would be "hitting pause," and told them its management depth could keep growth plans on track.

Korenman had "played a critical role in the early days" of PAS as corporate strategist developing the group's "foundational design," Risi had written in a June email announcing Korenman's promotion. "We're thrilled," she added. "We're excited." And, "No pressure, Phil!"

Korenman seemed made for the PAS job. He rose quickly through the ranks, with five annual promotions after his arrival with a brand-new IT management degree in 2002, then several years as corporate strategist, before joining the management elite as a Principal in 2011 and leading efforts to set up PAS.

As he rose, Korenman prepped for a top management role, earning an MBA from Villanova, and last year going through Harvard's Advanced Management Program. He starred in promotional videos and Q&A interviews boosting the service.

A sudden departure of a high-level boss is unusual for Vanguard, which has a history of picking management candidates from young hires. "They have a management team model that seems to work. They give a lot of thought to longterm planning. They aren't a public company, so they don't have to think in months; they think in decades," says Barry Ritholtz, CEO of Ritholtz Wealth Management LLC, a New York firm which offers clients Vanguard funds among other products.
Kevin Lopez, a bartender at The Love in Rittenhouse Square, says young people are drinking less to get drunk and more to appreciate the drink. Read more

On her 21st birthday, Rabbah Johnson experienced a first: not a legal cocktail, but a roller coaster ride at Six Flags.

She'd never been on one before and knew she wanted to change that. The incoming junior at Temple University had never had alcohol, either, but that didn't concern her much.

"It's something I never did, and I'm perfectly fine with it," she said.

Her attitude reflects a decades-long trend that may seem surprising amid reports of Greek life gone wild and alcohol-involved sexual assault: Young people in the United States are consuming less alcohol. According to the Monitoring the Future Study  an annual national survey of 50,000 adolescents and young adults in America  alcohol use has dropped steeply since the 1990s.

That's not to say everyone is going sober. Alcohol is still a large part of American culture, from happy hour after work to frat parties on college campuses  and so are the tragedies that can result. But researchers have found that young people today are throwing back fewer drinks than their counterparts 10 or 15 years ago. The decline is most significant in teens, but also present among adults in their 20s. The same trend has been recorded in Australia, the U.K., and several European countries.

In Pennsylvania, middle and high school students are binge-drinking less than their peers across the country, according to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board's biennial report on Underage and High-Risk Drinking. And college students are consuming slightly less than the national average.

Some see the trend as another example of millennial disruption. First, the generation  young adults in their 20s and 30s  killed cable TV, then it was cars, and now alcohol. But ask the millennials themselves, and it's clear the reasons are more nuanced: from restoring control and balance in life to reflecting on what makes social interactions meaningful.

>>READ MORE: Teenagers and college-age people drink less while baby boomers pour another round

For Johnson, drinking never held much appeal. Born in Pakistan, she spent her early years in a society that disapproved of alcohol. That changed when she moved to the U.S. at 13. "I could make a different choice," she said, "but I didn't want to."

She likes feeling in control. So why turn to a substance that takes that away? She still enjoys going dancing with friends, grabbing dinner, or simply hanging out. "I don't see it as missing out on anything," she said.

Public health experts hope that's the case for many young adults, that years of education on the risks of alcohol are beginning to pay off with a cultural change. "Just like we got people to stop thinking smoking is cool, maybe we're finally seeing a change in the perception of alcohol," said Robert Bassett, associate medical director of the Poison Control Center at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

The idea rings true for Allie Miller, a 26-year-old living in New York City, who rarely drinks. She goes out to bars and clubs with friends, but doesn't feel pressured to consume alcohol. In fact, most people are complimentary when they learn of her choice.

"They're usually shocked and amazed," Miller said. "But I'm not trying to be on a high moral ground. It's just part of my routine." It's not an anti-alcohol principle; just an easy way to save money and turn down guys who offer to buy her a drink, she joked.

Studies show most young people who drink do so for social reasons. But with the rise of social media, many youth interactions  particularly for teens and college-aged students  are moving from parks and parking lots to newsfeeds and Snapchats. "That naturally lends itself to less drinking," Bassett said. It also furthers the cultural shift in which alcohol isn't a necessary element for socialization.

As a bartender for more than 20 years, Kevin Scullin has seen the change first hand. At the White Dog Cafe in University City, he says, a third of the students who come in don't drink. They're more excited about the half-price truffled Parmesan fries and oysters during happy hour.

"Before, people would look at you like you're strange if you weren't drinking in a bar," Scullin said. "But now it's every other person. You come for the food, for the socialization."

Even those who drink are often ordering just a glass or two, Scullin said. There's less bingeing than when he started bartending in the late '90s.

At the Love in Rittenhouse Square, bartender Kevin Lopez says young people are opting for quality over quantity, craft cocktails and microbrews over well drinks and drafts. "They're drinking less to get drunk and more to appreciate," he said.

And they want creativity. The same way a chef is asked to create dishes from seasonal ingredients, Lopez often receives requests for drinks with fresh elements, such as strawberry, peach, and celery. His most unique concoction? A beet and horseradish soda.

>>READ MORE: 12 refreshing nonalcoholic drinks available in Philadelphia

But not all young people are looking to optimize their cocktails. Some are drinking less as part of a concerted effort to focus on health and wellness.

Nick Harris, a 30-year-old musician from South Philadelphia, stopped drinking last year to be more productive. Rather than having five drinks during a set and heading to the bar after the show, now he opts for water or soda. "I don't feel like garbage the next day," he said.

Despite what he calls a heavy-drinking culture in the music industry, Harris knows several people who don't drink or rarely drink. Some belong to the straight edge movement, a subculture of hard-core punk whose followers refrain from alcohol, tobacco, and other recreational drugs. Others are anti-capitalists who don't want to fund the beverage industry. "It's hard to find a common reason," he said.

Some skeptics wonder whether young people are simply replacing alcohol with other drugs. The Monitoring the Future study found use of most illicit drugs declined, along with alcohol. But there was one notable exception: marijuana.

It's difficult to determine whether that means people are substituting marijuana for alcohol, Bassett of CHOP said. In the past, marijuana and alcohol use have declined simultaneously.

Another possibility is substitution with new synthetic drugs that are sold on the street. "Surveys don't even know to ask the question about these agents," Bassett said.

But from where Adam Ravitz stands as bartender at Royal Boucherie in Old City, the trend of going dry is growing. A fifth of the cocktails he makes are nonalcoholic.

And it's not just customers. Bartenders are opting for less alcohol, too, Ravitz said. He has several bartender friends who stopped drinking to make their careers more sustainable. One friend puts on yoga classes for bartenders. Another organizes rock-climbing outings.

"Everybody is down to not drink," he said.
Vianela Tavera's body was found in a basement in Philadelphia's Feltonville section. Police said the Bronx woman had been shot in the head. Read more

The partially decomposed body found in a Feltonville basement Sunday night has been identified as that of Vianela Tavera, a mother of five from the Bronx who was last seen July 28 on her way to Philadelphia. Police said Tuesday that Tavera had been shot in the head.

Police in Fairfax County, Va., in the meantime, are holding a Philadelphia man who was arrested after having been found in Tavera's SUV with a 9mm handgun inside. Luis E. Negron-Martinez, 38, was taken into custody July 30.

Philadelphia police said Tuesday that Homicide Unit detectives began looking for Tavera, 50, in the city's Feltonville section July 31, after Fairfax County officials alerted them to the arrest of Negron-Martinez.

Sunday night, police found Tavera's body in the basement of a house on the 400 block of West Roosevelt Boulevard after neighbors complained of a strong odor.

Relatives told police Tavera had gone to Philadelphia to visit a man.

The medical examiner confirmed the body was that of Tavera and ruled her death a homicide caused by a gunshot wound to the head, police said.

No homicide charges had been filed yet. Police said in a statement that the "investigation in ongoing."
Down to the wire: Republican Troy Balderson (right) holds a narrow lead over Democrat Danny O'Connor (left) in a special election in Ohio's 12th Congressional District. Read more

Voters in four states  Kansas, Michigan, Missouri and Washington  went to the polls Tuesday to determine party nominees ahead of November's midterms. There was also a closely watched special election in Ohio to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Republican incumbent Rep. Pat Tiberi.

Here are four takeaways from Tuesday's elections:

 Democrats fought Republicans to an effective tie in Ohio's 12th Congressional District, an ordinarily safe Republican seat that has only been represented by a Democrat once since 1939. Republican Troy Balderson has a narrow lead over Democrat Danny O'Connor, but as of Wednesday morning the major news networks and the Associated Press say the race remains too close to call.

 If Trump-endorsed gubernatorial candidate Kris Kobach wins the Republican primary in Kansas over incumbent Jeff Colyer, it could help Democrats steal control of the statehouse in November. As of Wednesday morning, Kobach held a narrow lead with most of highly populated Johnson County left to be counted.

 In a big victory for labor unions, Missouri voters soundly rejected a new law that would have allowed non-union members to opt out of paying union dues even if they benefit from collective bargaining.

 In Michigan, former state Rep. Rashida Tlaib is likely to become the first Muslim woman elected to Congress after winning the primary to fill the seat vacated by Democratic Rep. John Conyers Jr., who was forced to resign over sexual harassment allegations.

Ohio (special election)

The most important race of the evening was a special election that took place in Ohio's 12th Congressional District, where Democrats still hold out hope they can steal a congressional seat Republicans have safely held for more than 20 years (since 1939, the district has only been represented by a Democrat for one term). In fact, outgoing Republican incumbent Rep. Pat Tiberi won the district by about 37 percentage points in 2016.

As of Wednesday morning, Republican Troy Balderson held a narrow lead over Democrat Danny O'Connor. The Associated Press, CNN and NBC News all said the race remained too close to call, mostly due to 5,048 absentee ballots and 3,435 provisional ballots that have yet to be counted.

In the wake of stunning defeats in both Pennsylvania and Alabama, an effective tie in a safe Republican district is yet another sign that a Democratic blue wave could crash down on Washington in November. "This district is ruby red Republican. The fact that it is so close is a big deal," CNN chief national correspondent John King said during the network's live coverage Tuesday night.

>> READ MORE: Poll: Conor Lamb leads Keith Rothfus big, Dem enthusiasm high in key Pa. congressional race

Despite the outstanding ballots, Trump took credit for Balderson's apparent victory late Tuesday night, claiming his last-minute rally in the district on Saturday pushed Balderson over the finish line. Pre-election polling, however, does not support Trump's claim, indicating the race was headed to a neck and neck finish.

Kansas

Trump shook up what should have been an easy primary win for incumbent Republican Gov. Jeff Colyer with his endorsement of far-right challenger Kris Kobach. As of Wednesday morning, the race remained too close to call.

Kobach holds a narrow lead over Colyer, but Johnson County in the suburbs of Kansas City has yet to full report its results. If Kobach wins the nomination, it could offer Democrats the rare chance to win a statewide race in deeply conservative Kansas. The ultimate Republican winner will face State Sen. Laura Kelly, who won the Democratic nomination against former state Rep. Josh Svaty and former Wichita mayor Carl Brewer.

A Kobach victory in Tuesday's Republican primary could also seriously impact the races for two congressional seats Democrats hope to flip in November.

In the Second Congressional District, Democrat Paul Davis will face Republican Steve Watkins, who won a seven-man Republican primary that insiders fear won't yield a candidate popular enough to win in November. Davis, the former minority leader in the Kansas House, nearly defeated former Gov. Sam Brownback in 2014.

In the Third Congressional District, which Democrats held as recently as 2011, attorney and former MMA fighter Sharice Davids narrowly defeated Bernie Sanders-backed Bret Welder for the Democratic nomination. If she defeats Republican opponent Kevin Yoder in November, Davids would become the first Native American woman elected to Congress.

Michigan

In the Wolverine State, Democrats are eying an opportunity to flip another statehouse, thanks to the retirement of unpopular incumbent Republican Gov. Rick Snyder.

For the Democrats, former minority leader Gretchen Whitmer won the Democratic primary over progressive opponent Abdul El-Sayed. She will now face off against Attorney General Bill Schuette, who was endorsed by Trump and defeated Lt. Gov. Brian Calley in Tuesday's Republican primary.

"The reality is, this is President Trump's Republican party. His chosen candidates win Republican primaries," Calley said in a concession video Tuesday night.

Democrats also see an opportunity to flip two Congressional districts that are considered toss-ups.

In the Eighth Congressional District, Democrats are pinning their general election hopes on former CIA officer Elissa Slotkin, who served on the National Security Council under presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Slotkin, who coasted to an easy Democratic primary win Tuesday night, will face off against incumbent Republican Rep. Mike Bishop in a district Trump won by less than 7 points in 2016.

Another toss-up is the 11th Congressional District, which was a free-for-fall with a total of 10 candidates thanks to the retirement of Republican Rep. David Trott. Both party's races remained too close to call Wednesday morning. On the Republican side, the frontrunners were former Rep. Kerry Bentivolio, state Sen. Mike Kowall and state Rep. Klint Kesto. For the Democrats, there's Sunell Gupta, the brother of CNN host Sanjay Gupta; former Obama official Haley Stevens and Fayrouz Saad, who has the endorsement of progressive Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, an upset Democratic primary winner for Congress in New York.

In the 13th Congressional District, where incumbent Rep. John Conyers Jr. was forced to resign over sexual harassment allegations, former state Rep. Rashida Tlaib is likely to become the first Muslim woman elected to Congress after edging out Detroit City Council President Brenda Jones in the Democratic primary. Tlaib will not face a Republican opponent in November in the heavily Democratic district, but could end up seeing token opposition from a write-in candidate.

Missouri

Among the most interesting races in November will be Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill's attempt to defend her seat in a state Trump won by more than 18 percentage points. McCaskill easily won the Democratic primary, and will face state Attorney General Josh Hawley in the fall.

The Second Congressional District is also expected to be somewhat competitive in the fall. Attorney Cort Vanostran won the Democratic primary Tuesday night, and will face off off against three-term Republican incumbent Rep. Ann Wagner in November.

In a big victory for labor unions, Missouri voters soundly rejected a new law that would have allowed non-union members to opt out of paying union dues even if they benefit from collective bargaining. Proposition A, as the referendum was known, was the first opportunity for voters to weigh in following an important Supreme Court ruling from June impacting public sector labor unions.

>> READ MORE: How the Supreme Court ruling on labor unions in Janus vs. AFSCME could upend politics in Pennsylvania

Washington

Washington's primary is similar to California's, where the top two primary finishers regardless of political party move on to November's election. Former state Republican chair Susan Hutchinson emerged from a scrum of 28 candidates to challenge incumbent Democratic Sen. Maria Cantwell, who is seeking her fourth term in the U.S. Senate and is the overwhelming favorite.

As far as congressional seats are concerned, Democrats have a good chance to flip at least two Republican-controlled districts come November.

In the Fifth Congressional District, Republican incumbent Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers will face Democratic nominee Lisa Brown, the former chancellor of Washington State University Spokane.

Democrats have a shot to flip the Eighth Congressional District, which is being vacated by retiring incumbent Republican Rep. Dave Reichert. Democrats were locked in a competitive primary fight for the right to face Republican Dino Rossi. The Democratic frontrunners are all first-time candidates: pediatrician Kim Schrier, doctor Shannon Hader and attorney Jason Rittereiser. The race remained too close to call Wednesday morning.
Dean Carlson, stands on the deck of the restaurant, as he speaks about the issues with the Department of Environmental Protection his farm-to-table restaurant and farm is having Thursday, November 16, 2017 at Wyebrook Farm in Honey Brook, Pennsylvania. The regulatory issues have forced him to close his restaurant as of November 19th. The market remain open until the end of the year and the farm will continue to sell their meats at Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia. Read more

At first, Dean Carlson was hopeful he could reopen his popular restaurant on his farm in western Chester County. He and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection just needed to straighten out a few things.

But as the reality of complying with sewer regulations settled in and the projected costs added up, he decided last year to close Wyebrook Farm's restaurant. He had said he would stick to farming, selling cuts of meat, and throwing the occasional special event on his 360-acre swath of land in West Nantmeal Township.

Now, the father of three is selling nearly 190 acres of that property  including the farm and the stone building that houses the former restaurant and meat market. He's asking for $7.9 million.

"We are enormously grateful to all of the people that have contributed to the success of Wyebrook, and thank you for all of the support," the business wrote in a Facebook post last month announcing the property was for sale. "We are excited to see what the next evolution of the farm will be."

All but five acres is preserved farmland, the result of a 2012 purchase by Chester County through a grant program. Most of the handful of interested buyers so far are based in Philadelphia and are in the catering and restaurant industry, including a distillery, said Caryn Black of Kurfiss Sotheby's International Realty.

"It's going to be a challenge, because not everyone wants 190 acres," Black said. But "the property is spectacular."

>>READ MORE: How red-tape morass closed Chesco farm's restaurant

Carlson was unavailable for comment.

The property includes a 2,300-square-foot stone house that has seven bedrooms and four bathrooms, a smaller farmhouse, the stone building that housed the market and restaurant, and smaller outbuildings. The structures sit on rolling green fields. Carlson and his family plan to continue to live on another piece of the land.

Carlson bought the property in 2010 through a foreclosure sale and, in 2012, opened his restaurant, which was known for "grass-fed" beef, pork, and other meats that Carlson also sold at the farm's on-site market and Reading Terminal Market.

He was one of many farmers throughout the country who have discovered they must expand their business in order to thrive in agriculture. He called the restaurant a vital part of how he sold his farm's products.

>>READ MORE: Popular Wyebrook Farm restaurant won't re-open, owner says state red tape too costly and time-consuming

State officials originally said Carlson did not need a sewer plan for what they thought was going to be a farm store. Carlson's plans grew to include his restaurant, but the property "slipped through the cracks" of established regulations, a county health staffer said in a 2016 email.

Carlson said he didn't know there was any issue until a Department of Environmental Protection employee happened to dine at the restaurant in 2016. The off-duty wastewater specialist wondered whether the restaurant had its sewage approvals, which led the department to look more closely at the restaurant. To keep operating, state officials said, Carlson would need to expand his sewer system.

He decided to shut down the restaurant in November, just before his slower winter season, to consider his options. State officials at the time stressed they did not force him to close. But he said this spring that he would not reopen, citing regulatory red tape and environmental testing that would be too costly and time-consuming.
A man who had been speaking incoherently held his 3-year-old daughter threateningly at an open third-floor window during a standoff with police before officers entered the house in North Philadelphia and rescued the girl and her 6-year-old brother, authorities said.

The 41-year-old father, whose name was not immediately released, put up a struggle when police tried to take him into custody, punching and kicking them, Chief Inspector Scott Small told reporters at the scene along the 2200 block of North Howard Street. No one was injured during the 2-hour-long standoff.

Police went to the house about 12:40 a.m. Tuesday after reports of a man screaming from the third floor.

Officers tried to get the man to leave but he refused and police declared a barricade situation at 1:12 a.m.

Small said the man was acting irrationally and speaking incoherently.

A SWAT team and a hostage negotiator arrived, but when the man refused to come out, concerns grew about the safety of the children after he held the girl threateningly at the open third-floor window.

"The entire time you could hear children screaming in the background," Small said. "So we were afraid one or more of the children may be harmed, so police went inside."

The man, who was taken into custody about 2:45 a.m., was taken to a hospital for a mental-health evaluation, officials said.

The children were reunited with their mother.
Norbert Joseph McGettigan, 93, formerly of Bala Cynwyd, a decorated World War II veteran and travel agent who handled trip plans for VIPs such as Princess Grace of Monaco, died July 31 of respiratory failure at Abington Jefferson Hospital.

Mr. McGettigan was born in Highland Park, Upper Darby, into a family that ran a travel agency, and he followed suit. In 1930, his father, John McGettigan, started the McGettigan Travel Bureau, which booked passage on Cunard ocean liners for Irish immigrants bound for America.

With the advent of World War II, the elder McGettigan was forced to shut down the agency because steam ships were commandeered by the U.S. Army for troop transport.

During the war, the younger Mr. McGettigan saw heavy fighting with the Army's 106th and 69th Infantry Divisions. He was at the Battle of the Bulge, and was honored with the Bronze Star Medal, and the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three bronze service stars.

The Bronze Star was for "exemplary conduct in ground combat against the armed enemy on or about 28 February 1945 in the European Theater," the award letter said. He was honorably discharged in November 1947.

After the war, Mr. McGettigan reopened McGettigan Travel Bureau with a $700 investment at 33rd and Chestnut Streets in West Philadelphia. The travel industry was just getting started. The first year he made $10,000, he told the Inquirer in 2002.

In 1951, he married Margaret Maloney, who helped him expand the business. The couple had six children. She died of kidney failure in 1974.

While escorting a tour group to Bermuda in 1976, he met Doreen Straus, an Oregon resident who was working as a director of an overseas oil company. They married in 1977. She helped with the children and became an agent for McGettigan Travel.

As a young man, Mr. McGettigan had rowed with the Vesper Boat Club and knew club president John B. Kelly Sr. That became important in 1956, when Kelly's daughter, Grace, married Prince Rainier of Monaco; Mr. McGettigan arranged steamship transportation for 242 wedding guests from Philadelphia.

"We got a lot of publicity," Mr. McGettigan told the Inquirer.

A prominent Catholic layman, Mr. McGettigan and his agency made many travel arrangements for officials of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to participate in major events at the Vatican.

The events included the elevations to cardinal of John O'Hara and Anthony Bevilacqua, the canonization of St. John Neumann, and the beatification and canonization of Mother Katharine Drexel.

McGettigan's Travel evolved into McGettigan Partners, a worldwide travel management organization with 500 employees.

"What a kind, wonderful man he was," Bonnie Tjaden Steelman posted online Aug. 2. "I worked for the McGettigans back in the 1990s. To this day, I tell people it was the best job I ever had."

"He helped anybody from the janitor up to the highest person, with a job or a reference, whatever he could do," his wife Doreen said.

In November 2001, the family sold the travel business to friendly competitor Maritz Inc. Asked whether he had any regrets, he said: "None, whatsoever. The price was right, and the time was right. We're very, very happy to be associated with Maritz."

Mr. McGettigan was active in professional and civic organizations. He was a president of the Walnut Street Businessmen's Association, and a board member of the Ronald McDonald House and Better Business Bureau.

He served on the boards of the Union League of Philadelphia, St. Ignatius Nursing & Rehab, the Berean Institute, Hero Scholarship Fund, and the Clover Club of Philadelphia. He was also a member of many Catholic service organizations.

In 1994, he was given the Annual Barry Award by the American Catholic Historical Society for distinguished service to church and community. He was an honoree at the Fifth Annual CYO (Catholic Youth Organization) Hall of Fame Banquet in 1998 and was made a Knight of the Order of Pope St. Sylvester.

Of all the places he enjoyed visiting, his favorite was Ocean City, N.J., where he spent time with his wife and children. "He loved cruising and being near the water," his wife said.

In addition to his wife Doreen, he is survived by children Marianne Kehan, Maureen Wade, Alice Barr, Suzanne Kelly, Margaret Murphy, and Norbert J. McGettigan, Jr.; 15 grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. Three brothers and three sisters died earlier.

A viewing from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 7, at St. Rose of Lima Church, 428 S. Main St., North Wales, will be followed by a second viewing from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 8, at the church. A Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Entombment is private.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Ignatius Nursing & Rehab, Development Department, 4401 Haverford Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. 19104.
AirAsia launches new flights to Phu Quoc Island Vietnam

Exciting times ahead for AirAsia. AirAsia officially announced that they will be flying to Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam. This is their fifth destination in Vietnam from Kuala Lumpur after Ho Chi Minh, Nha Trang, Danang and Hanoi.

The first flight will commence on 2nd November 2018 (thats my birthday) and it will be four weekly flights!

We heard about Phu Quoc from our traveller and Vietnamese friends for a long time and this is a good chance for us to travel there one day.







For your information, Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam and also home of a diverse landscape featuring lush forests, crystal clear beaches and towering mountains.

AirAsia will offer special introductory all in fares from Kuala Lumpur to Phu Quoc Island from RM 90 one way (promotional fares).These fares are available for booking on AirAsia.com and AirAsia mobile app from 8 August to 19 August which means it starts todays midnight. The travel period from 2 Nov 2018 to 29 March 2019.

Big Pay members will enjoy zero processing fees when making paymet using BigPay card while AirAsia BIG members can also redeem one way flight from Kuala Lumpur to Phu Quoc island from 100 AirAsia BIG Points (base fare only).







Flight Schedule for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (KUL)  Phu Quoc, Vietnam (PQC)

Route Flight no STD ETA Flight Frequency KL  Phu Quoc AK 545 1250 hrs 1335 hrs Mon, Wed, Fri, Sunday Phu Quoc  KL AK 546 1405 1655 hrs Mon, Wed, Fri, Sunday

We have not been to Vietnam since last year and this looks like an interesting destination for us to explore in the future. AirAsia has been very busy opening new routes in ASEAN. They recently launched KL  Lake Toba and now Phu Quoc.

We were informed that there will be more new destinations to be announced by AirAsia very soon!

Like we mentioned earlier, it is exciting times ahead for AirAsia as they are expanding to more cities so everyone can fly to new destinations.

If you are an island and beach lover, you definitely should visit Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam! For more information and booking go to AirAsia.com. Now, everyone can fly to Phu Quoc Island.







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
KIGALI  The Rwandan army has detained its long-serving former intelligence chief, Lt Gen Karenzi Karake, a move that has rattled the countrys top security echelons.

The 57-year-old, who worked as the director general of the National Intelligence and Security Services, was arrested last week and is detained at an unknown location in the capital Kigali on yet-to-be unspecified charges.

Rwanda Investigations Bureau (RIB) spokesperson Modeste Mbabazi has denied Karenzis arrest and the countrys Defence Ministry has refused to comment on the matter.

However, sources in the military in Kigali said the arrest is linked to his alleged negative remarks about deteriorating diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Uganda.

On Monday, this website reported that relations between Rwanda and Uganda have broken down further following continuous arrests of each others citizens and counter-accusations of funding rebel activities,

And now highly placed military sources have revealed that the arrest of Karake, who grew up in Uganda as a refugee and attended Makerere University, before joining the Rwandan Patriotic Front where he fought in the 1990-1994 Rwandan Civil War, believes that the reported talk of war between the two countries is exaggerated by some senior officials in the Rwanda government keen on impressing President Paul Kagame for favours.

Karakes phone calls, purportedly made to some of his close friends in Kampala and Kigali, expressing his views, are said to have been tapped by security agencies, leading to his arrest.

His arrest has caused jitters in the Rwanda security system as he is seen as a close ally to President Kagame and a senior member of the Rwanda Patriotic Front party, who participated in the war that ended the 1994 genocide.

Karake was arrested on 20 June 2015 in London, on an arrest warrant from Spain for war crimes. The Rwandan government responded, with Foreign Minister Louise Mushikiwabo calling the arrest an outrage. Karake had a court meeting the day of his arrest and was remanded in custody. On 10 August 2015, Karenzi was freed by the UK justice, considering that the relevant laws on the conduct alleged in this case do not cover the acts of non-UK nationals or residents abroad.

On return to Rwanda, Karake was eventually removed from the position of intelligence chief before being appointed Presidential Advisor on Defence and Security  a position he holds to date.

Karakes arrest comes against the backdrop of the detention of the Managing Director of Kigali Heights, Mr Dennis Karera, over fraud. Reports indicate Karera is suspected of inflating the construction cost of Kigali Heights which could have caused financial loss to the shareholders.

Since March, Ugandan authorities, especially in the border districts of Kabale, Kisoro and Kagadi have arrested several Rwandan nationals and deported them back to Rwanda. The latest came on July 24 when Police in Rubanda District arrested 22 Rwandan and Congolese nationals over illegal entry into Uganda.

Rwanda also accuses Uganda immigration officials of confiscating identity cards of Rwandese travelling to Uganda.

Kigali accuses Kampala of backing Rwandan dissidents seeking to destabilise Rwanda while Uganda, on the other hand, intensified its crackdown on Rwandans it says are on espionage missions in Uganda.

Last week, some Rwanda news sites published a story alleging that President Museveni spoke to Rwandan dissident Dr David Himbara, one of Rwandas most vocal critics, purporting that the Ugandan leader offered to support him.

Last month, the Rwandan High Commissioner to Uganda, Maj Gen (Rtd) Frank Mugambage, also claimed that the Kampala government has failed to investigate terror groups working within Uganda with plans to attack Rwanda.

To avoid further escalation of the conflict, Presidents Museveni and Kagame have ordered the Foreign minister of both countries to start meeting under the Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) which provides a good mechanism for discussing matters of mutual interest and strengthening cooperation.

Although the two leaders had recommended revival of JPC within three months of the Kampala meeting, it has not taken place.

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KAMPALA- There was drama at the General Court Martial on Tuesday August 7 when a lawyer representing the embattled Boda Boda 2010 Association patron, Abdallah Kitatta was thrown out of court for disrespecting proceedings.

The court was in the middle of the cross-examination of the prosecution witness, Private Richard Kasaija over his May testimony that pinning Kitatta on being in unlawful possession of three guns and 55 rounds of ammunitions.

However, Kitattas lawyer, Jimmy Muyanja, banged the table in anger, accusing the prosecutor, Maj Rapheal Mugisha, of signaling answers to the witness, whose cross examination had lasted four hours.

Muyanjas actions angered the court chairman, Lt Gen Andrew Gutti, who ordered Military Police to escort him out, with a warning never to set foot in the court again for being stupid.

During the cross-examination, Kitattas lawyers led by Shaban Sanywa labelled Kasaija as an incompetent soldier who is unfit to carry on operations, saying he cannot even remember the number or the names of suspects he arrested in January.

They had also asked court to bring evidence of CCTV footage of a Hotel that Kitatta was allegedly arrested from at Wakaliga as part of his defence.

However, Gen Gutti declined to grant the order for Kitattas lawyers to use the camera footage as evidence that Kitatta was never found with the 3 guns in his room at Vine tea Hotel.

The camera footage is not part of the testimony of the first prosecution witness private Kasaijja and therefore there is no basis upon which the lawyers can cross-examine him on the same, Gen Gutti explained.

Kitatta is charged together with 12 members of his group for offenses of unlawful possession of firearms and Military equipment. The suspects have since denied the allegations for which the prosecutor will present his second witness on September 10.

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KAMPALA  The health ministry has asked health workers to intensify their surveillance against the deadly disease along the borders with DR Congo.

This follows the declaration of an outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), a haemorrhagic fever in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC),.

The acting director of Health Services Dr Henry Mwebesa in a Monday notice directed all district health officers in the country to be vigilant and inform the ministry of any suspected cases of Ebola in Uganda.

Dr Mwebesa said the ministry of health in DRC has confirmed the outbreak of EVD in Magina Health Zone of Mabalako in North Kivu about 100 kilometres from Ugandas border.

The purpose of this communication is, therefore, to request you to enhance your surveillance systems and preparedness and have a high index of suspicion for Ebola, urgently report any alerts to Public Health Emergency Operation Centre, Dr Mwebesa wrote.

He said so far, 26 cases with haemorrhagic fever signs, including twenty deaths in the area of North Kivu have been reported.

Dr Mwebesa said the surveillance is necessary because the affected areas in DRC are currently facing political turmoil thus causing movement of refugees to Ugandas neighbouring districts.

Mr Sarah Opendi, the state minister in charge of general duties has meanwhile warned Ugandans residing in districts bordering Ebola-stricken DR Congo, against the consumption of bushmeat through which the disease is said to be spread.

Ms Opendi, warned people in Kasese and Bundibugyo districts among others, neighbouring Congos Mangina town, against consuming wild animals such as monkeys and birds saying the consumption of bushmeat is a common practice in the districts.

It is from where they get this Ebola and we have talked to the people in these districts to stop eating bats and monkeys. People should also ensure good sanitation and stop shaking hands, Ms Opendi warned in a telephone interview with Daily Monitor yesterday.

Measures

Dr Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary Ministry said the ministry has reactivated surveillance teams and task forces at Ugandas different border points with Congo to control movements and conduct screening for those entering the country.

Dr Atwine said the same measures have been reinstated at the airport and that the government in Congo has taken up the matter seriously.

The deadly haemorrhagic fever resurfaces in Congo barely two weeks after the country declared the end of an earlier Ebola outbreak that occurred in the northwest Equator province, where 54 cases were confirmed in May this year

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JUBA- Businesses are shut in South Sudans capital city Juba as people celebrate the signing of a power-sharing deal aimed at ending a brutal five-year civil war.

The peace and power sharing agreement that was signed on Sunday August 5 between South Sudans President Salva Kiir and his former deputy Dr Riek Machar was amongst other delegates witnessed by President Yoweri Museveni in Juba.

Mr Museveni together with regional leaders and hundreds of other dignitaries gathered at the Friendship Hall in Khartoum to witness the signing of the security and governance agreement among South Sudan rival parties.

Don Wanyama, the presidential press secretary said tweeted that president Museveni and Sudan President Omar al-Bashir are the guarantors of the peace agreement.

According to Wanyama, Museveni asked both parties to implement what was agreed on in the deal key among others to avoid using ceasefire to re-arm for war, shun politics of opportunism, work for populations interests, and use fair elections to arbitrate political argument.

Sudan president Omar al-Bashir, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on charges of crime against humanity and war crimes, also witnessed and guaranteed, the peace agreement.

The move amongst other things intends to get the rebel leader Riek Machar returned to government as one of five vice-presidents as agreed in Uganda last month.

President Salva Kiir promised peace in the country following the signed agreement.

I call on everyone as a leader of South Sudan that this agreement which we have signed today should be the end of the war and the conflict in our country, said President Salva Kiir.

Former vice president Machar said after the signing, Today we celebrate, not just in South Sudan, but throughout the world.

He added that there is no option but peace  we have to focus after this stage on implementing the agreement that if we dont implement, we will all be failures.

Tens of thousands of people have been killed and millions displaced in the conflict which broke out about two years after South Sudans independence.

Previous peace agreements held for only a matter of months before fighting resumed, which Kiir has blamed on foreign influence.

My government and I know the conflict in South Sudan has resulted in a financial and political burden, Kiir said.

We must accept that the internal war has no meaning and has imposed suffering on us and our families and has killed hundreds of our young men and women, destroyed our economy, and left us divided.

The series of discussions that led to signing of the peace agreement, started in May this year in capital Addis Ababa and were called by the Inter-Government Authority on Development (IGAD) leaders, the seven-member regional bloc that has been facilitating the South Sudan peace talks since fighting first broke out in December 2013.

President Museveni recently said that he was hopeful for positive results.

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An explosion of drive-by shootings erupted on Chicagos South and West sides this weekend. At least 74 people were shot, and 11 killed, between 3 p.m. on Friday and 6 a.m. on Monday. In one seven-hour stretch, starting around midnight on Saturday, at least 40 people were shot, four fatally, as gunmen targeted a block party, the aftermath of a funeral, and a front porch, reports the Chicago Tribune.

Over two and a half hours that morning, 25 people were shot in five multiple-injury shootings, including a 17-year-old who died after being shot in the face. An 11-year-old boy, a 13-year-old boy, and a 14-year-old girl were also hit over the course of the weekends bloodbath. Mt. Sinais emergency room shut down for several hours due to the overload of bodies; in May, the entire hospital went into lockdown following a virtual riot in its lobby among gangbangers, reported Tribune columnist John Kass.

Meantime, Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel and Illinois attorney general Lisa Madigan recently celebrated the issuance of a 232-page draft consent decree for the Chicago Police Department, possibly the longest police consent decree ever written. Among numerous other red-tape-generating provisions, it requires the CPD to revise its protocols regarding transgender, intersex, and gender non-conforming individuals, to make sure that the CPD policies properly define these terms and that officers address intersex, transgender, and the gender non-conforming with the names, pronouns and titles of respect appropriate to that individuals gender. Last Thursday, a so-called anti-violence march shut down Lake Shore Drive to demand that the CPD hire more black officers and that City Hall spend more on social programs in the black community. Few voices, in other words, are tackling the actual cause of Chicagos violence: the breakdown of the black family structure and a demoralized police department.

If the mayor signs the consent decree, the police department will have to divert further resources from on-the-ground enforcement toward collection of racial data and training in the phony theory of implicit bias. A court granted the ACLU of Illinois and Black Lives Matter Chicago permission to intervene in the consent decree negotiations. This is the same ACLU that muscled the CPD into introducing a new three-page stop, question, and frisk form in January 2016 that contributed to Chicagos shooting spike, already accelerating due to Black Lives Matter-driven anti-cop hatred. The ACLU and BLM Chicago will also be able to enforce the new consent decree in court, spelling further trouble for professional policing.

Read Complete Article at City Journal.
NYPD Sergeant Richard Blake said he was being robbed in the early morning hours on Thursday when he drew a gun and squeezed off two rounds, with one striking the alleged assailant in the jaw, according to authorities.

The man who was shot  identified as Thavone Santana  reportedly has nine prior arrests, including for robbery and gun possession, according to the New York Post.

Santana was taken to a nearby hospital and is expected to survive.

Surveillance video appears to show Blake and Santana in some sort of an argument. After the shots were fired, it appears that Blake dropped an object, and then picked it up. It is unclear what that object was.

"According to sources, the object you can see Blake drop, then pick up in the video may be a weapon. Investigators are trying to figure out whether he was trying to plant it or whether he just dropped it by accident," said a report by NY1.

A well-known community leader has already come out with accusations of foul play on the part of the officer, claiming that the dispute was over a rivalry over a romantic interest. There is so far no evidence to substantiate that claim.

In a statement, the NYPD said, "This remains an open and fluid investigation, and the NYPD is coordinating closely with the Kings County District Attorneys office. Video of the incident has been recovered and is under review. The video captures actions that raise serious questions, and require further investigation. Recovered video is being shared with the Kings County DA. The member of service involved in this incident remains on modified duty."

Blake has been placed on desk duty.
Was it the prime rib you had at that out-of-the-way restaurant? Maybe that picnic he packed for your first date? Or the fish you caught in the Boundary Waters and cooked over a campfire?

What Im asking  is there a meal or a dish that stands out in your memory as being something special, whether it was last week or years ago?

Most of us cant remember what we had for dinner last night, but a memorable dish or meal can live on in our memory a long time. It can also happen when you least expect it, a surprise.

Many of lifes big moments center around food. Celebrations like weddings, birthdays, reunions and holidays are usually food-centered with a big helping of nostalgia thrown in. Like Thanksgiving. How many times have we heard people say that is their favorite meal of the year, with a lot of what is served prepared from recipes handed down generations.

Past dishes can live on a long time. Jo Rockwell, age 92, still recalls her mothers cooking as being among the best food she has had in a lifetime of meals, "especially her pork roast, sauerkraut and potato dumplings."

It can also happen when you try something new, like what Sandy Carroll experienced.

"My husband and I were in Italy and it was my first trip to Europe. We were tired and hungry and just walked in to this restaurant and sat down," she said.

"I ordered something off the menu and had no idea what it was. It turned out to be risotto, which Id never had before. It was incredible. Now its one of my favorite foods, but Ill never forget the first time I had it."

An event that could have been stressful turned into a memorable meal for Virginia Arey. She recalls in detail the meal her future mother-in-law fixed when Virginia went to meet the family for the first time.

"She served lamb, which I love, but she had made a mint sauce that was out-of-this-world delicious (not mint jelly). I had it many times over the years, but that first time made a big impression. Ive never forgotten that first taste."

Someone who knows plenty about creating memorable meals is Chris Rohe, owner and executive chef of Prescotts restaurant. He points out the importance of having everything prepared just right, whether its a steak, salad, soup, pasta or dessert.

"The best ingredients you can get are especially important," he said. "All the components need to be done the right way."

You might be surprised to know that one of his favorite, most memorable foods is the pizza served at A to Z Produce and Pizza in Stockholm, Wis.

"The pizza is incredible and the quality of the vegetables and other ingredients are so good," he said. "I go there once a year and always look forward to it." (A to Z hosts Pizza Night on Tuesdays from March to October, 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.)

Among many memorable meals I have had, the one that stands out was at a restaurant in northern Wisconsin. I ordered pheasant, which was served with a cream sauce and spaetzle, and it was so delicious I had to almost be restrained from licking the plate. Sadly, when I ordered it the next year it was a disappointment. That can happen.

Finally one cant reminisce about memorable meals without thinking that often they have very little to do with the food. Rather, it is the camaraderie with the people you are with. They are as important, if not more so, than what is on your plate.

Its also true that simple ingredients can create something memorable, right in your own kitchen.
Should Canada remain a member of its present free-trade agreements or should it adopt unilateral free trade?



1. Canada should remain a member of its present free-trade agreements.

2. Canada should adopt unilateral free trade.





One advantage with this referendum question is that the two options aren't even necessarily mutually exclusive. If the majority should vote in favour of remaining in our present free-trade agreements, future negotiators could still try to negotiate an open agreement. By that, I mean an agreement that would not impose country-of-origin rules on Canada or in any way force Canada to raise tariffs against other countries in exchange for lower tariffs from its members. However, if the majority vote for the present trade agreements, the government would understand that it could have unilateral free trade only to the degree that the present agreements allow it.



If the majority vote in favour of unilateral free trade, this still would not prevent Canada from negotiating common standards in packaging and labelling and common sanitary and phytosanitary and technical standards to remove unintentional trade barriers. This could even allow Canada to remain in its present free-trade agreements on the condition that the agreements be revised to form open agreements that would allow Canada to pursue unilateral free trade within these agreements.



In practical terms, since the US probably would insist on country-of-origin rules or other rules that would prevent Canada from pursuing unilateral free trade within NAFTA, most probably Canada would be forced to choose between those two options according to the referendum result. I'm just saying though that under ideal conditions, the two options would not necessarily exclude one another.
AHMEDABAD, India, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Garvi Gurjari-2018, the International Buyer Seller Meet on Handloom & Handicrafts, organized by Gujarat State Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited started with a high note amidst enthusiasm and promise for promoting the State handloom & handicrafts sector. Over 100 international buyers from across the world and 200 national buyers representing various states of India attended this 4-day mega promotional event, which was aimed at facilitating B2B meetings between the buyers and artisans of Gujarat. International buyers from over 25 countries including USA, UK, Germany, New Zealand, Kenya, Sri Lanka and Bhutan arrived for the Garvi Gurjari-2018 Meet. More than 30 art and crafts of Gujarat were on display in a special exhibition showcasing the exquisite creativity and vibrant designs of the State. Praveg Communications Limited was the Event Partner of Garvi Gurjari-2018.

(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/727009/Garvi_Gurjari_2018_IBSM.jpg )



Speaking at the inaugural session of Garvi Gurjari-2018, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Vijaybhai Rupani highlighted various initiatives undertaken by the Government to encourage the rich tradition of handloom & handicraft products. Amidst adversities and challenges of modern times dominated by IT and machines, the artisans of Gujarat have exemplified their love and passion for the family profession of creating artistic products, thereby upholding the rich cultural legacy of the State. He stressed upon the need for training programmes towards improving production, quality and marketing aspects to secure better future for the sector. He added that the Government will encourage more such events so that artisans can avail global perspective about the markets worldwide and adapt to the international requirements of price, quality and design for better marketability.

During the inaugural session, MoUs were signed by Gujarat State Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited with four international organizations towards promotion and sale of Garvi Gurjari products. Bhutan Chamber of Commerce & Industry, The Craft Safari, Dubai, Ian Snow Limited, UK and Yiwu Pradip Shetty Fashion Trading Co. Ltd. China signed MoUs expressing their keen interest for selling the State's handloom & handicraft products. On the occasion, a special mobile application was also launched by the Hon'ble Chief Minister to facilitate online sale of Garvi Gurjari Products.

Shri Jayeshbhai Radadiya, Minister of Cottage Industries, expressed confidence that Garvi Gurjari-2018 would enable the artisans of Gujarat to explore global markets and enhance marketability of their products. He outlined some of the marketing initiatives of the State Corporation including establishment of 25 emporia across India and the online market portal for the sale of Garvi Gurjari products.

Earlier during the session, Shri Sandeep Kumar, IAS, Secretary (Cottage & Rural Industries) gave information about various measures taken by the State Corporation in the areas of training, marketing and promotion.

Shri Shankarbhai Dalwadi, Chairman of Gujarat State Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited welcomed all the buyers and expressed hope that the meet would facilitate creation of sound market base for Garvi Gurjari products, both in India and foreign countries.

A Seminar on Handloom & Handicraft products of Gujarat witnessed presence of international speakers including Dr. Surapee, Ex- President of World Craft Council, Ms. Shirley Jayawardane, Sr. Vice President from Federation of Chambers of Commerce & Industry of Sri Lanka and Mr. Chorten Dorji, Executive Director of Handicraft Association of Bhutan. The speakers discussed the global outlook of the handloom & handicrafts sector, their international experiences, market trends and strategies towards effective marketing of the products.

A special Garvi Gurjari-2018 Fashion Show showcased wide range of Gujarat's handloom & handcrafted apparels amidst the splendid audio-visual arrangements. The designer fabrics reinforced the eternity of Gujarat's traditional art and crafts, and impressed the large audience at the show.

The exhibition area at Garvi Gurjari-2018 was brimming with appreciation towards wide array of colorful art and crafts on display amidst enthusiastic participation of buyers and sellers in the B2B meetings.

While the first two days i.e. 3rd and 4th August were reserved exclusively for B2B meetings between buyers and sellers, the next two days, 5th and 6th August witnessed tens of thousands of general visitors showing their keen interest in exploring and buying assorted handcrafted Garvi Gurjari products.

All in all, Garvi Gurjari-2018 International Buyer Seller meet received overwhelming response from the buyers and sellers alike, and opened new opportunities for strategic associations and business development in handloom & handicraft items.

Garvi Gurjari-2018 National Buyer Seller Meet is scheduled on 26-27-28 October, 2018 at Kolkata. The event will witness participation of 50 artisans and weavers from Gujarat and 100 National Buyers.

About Praveg Communications Limited

Praveg Communications Limited, the leading event management company based in India, has executed over 600 events in India and abroad. For more information, http://www.praveg.com

About Gujarat State Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited

Gujarat State Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd., (GSHHDC), an undertaking of Government of Gujarat was established in 1973 with the main objective of identification, revival, development of handicrafts and handlooms of Gujarat.

Media Contact:

Shri B. Venkateswarlu

[email protected]

+91-9909942606

Gujarat State Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited



SOURCE Gujarat State Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited
Kenya-based leading consumer goods manufacturer BIDCO AFRICA chooses HighJump and iWMS to evolve workflow with solutions for the supply chain of tomorrow

MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- HighJump, a global provider of supply chain solutions, today announces that, in partnership with independent software developer, innovator and team augmentation partner iWMS, it is modernizing the operations of leading manufacturer of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) BIDCO Africa Limited. This is one of many recent global new customers for HighJump, and displays both HighJump's and BIDCO Africa Limited's commitment to empower customers worldwide with the digital, connected, and automated supply chain of the future.

Consumer expectations are driving the supply chain to change. From reverse logistics, to same-day delivery, to mobility, to social engagement and beyond, companies need solutions to handle new business models, stressed traditional logistics systems and deconsolidating networks. Capitalizing on the HighJump WMS and supply chain analytics application HighJump Pulse, BIDCO Africa Limited is on a path to make this a reality.

"Our vision is to build an optimized, growth-oriented, end-to-end, seamless supply chain; leveraging best business practices, eliminating waste/muda, delivering comprehensive value to our customers and providing a competitive advantage," said Milan Vyas, head of supply chain, BIDCO Africa Limited. "The first deployment of its kind in Eastern or Central Africa, our work with HighJump demonstrates both of our commitment to revolutionize the region with next-generation technologies and driving the digitization of the supply chain. We're creating a 'platform for the future'. BIDCO supply chain is a strategic asset for improving operational efficiencies, driving growth and meeting current and evolving expectations to increase customer satisfaction."

With an objective to hit a billion-dollar revenue within the next five years, BIDCO Africa Limited is constructing a state-of-the-art industrial park with 10 new factories. BIDCO Africa Limited, with HighJump and the support of iWMS, is gaining end-to-end supply chain transparency to improve today's workflows and seamlessly adapt to its rapid growth trajectory. This includes evolving operations with advanced traceability and recall management, inventory management, tracking and shipping via FEFO/FIFO expiry dates, and increased worker productivity. All of this is powered through real-time data analytics instantly interpreted in the WMS. The solution also easily integrates with BIDCO Africa Limited's SAP ERP.

"We needed a WMS built to scale with our expansion capabilities," said Alkane Patel, chief information officer, BIDCO Africa Limited. "After rigorously evaluating seven providers, HighJump proved to have the best-in-class functionality. This includes upgradability, system adaptability, industry experience with implementation partner expertise, and interface capabilities at the lowest total cost of ownership. We now have the confidence to grow our business sustainably with visibility into performance metrics and a foundation for continuous process improvement."

"Empowering BIDCO Africa Limited to easily meet changing business and customer demands showcases HighJump's dedication to and capabilities for fueling the supply chain of the future across global borders," said David Houser, senior vice president, international sales and operations, HighJump. "We make this possible by providing the solutions of tomorrow and acting as an extension of our customers' teams."

"We are proud to welcome BIDCO Africa Limited into the iWMS family and for the opportunity to enter the Kenyan market," said Richard Evans, CEO, iWMS. "We look forward to a long and fruitful association in which both companies can grow their potential in the region."

BIDCO Africa Limited manufactures premium brands available across 17 countries in Africa. This is one of many recent wins for HighJump and iWMS, including Jack's of Fiji and Woolworths.

Further information on iWMS and HighJump's global partner network can be found here.

About BIDCO Africa

BIDCO Africa is one of the top players in Africa's FMCG sector. The Company manufactures premium brands that are available across 17 countries in Africa.

BIDCO Africa has adopted an agribusiness model committed to inclusive growth and sustainable development. BIDCO Africa is one of the largest and fastest growing FMCG manufacturer in East & Central Africa with the widest range of products such as edible oils, cooking fats, margarine, baking products, hygiene detergents, laundry bars, personal care, noodles & beverages.

About iWMS

iWMS is an independent software developer, innovator and team augmentation partner with years of global experience in consulting, building, and supporting WMS solutions. We offer proven industry-leading software from HighJump Software Network Solutions for warehouse and supply chain management.

iWMS is based in South Africa, America, Australasia and India. This gives iWMS access to the best resources and IT talent globally enabling us to ensure that the right level of experience is available for all projects at any given time.

About HighJump

HighJump is a global provider of supply chain management software that streamlines the flow of inventory and information from supplier to store shelf. Named to the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list for 3 years running, HighJump employs more than 440 team members worldwide, and supports more than 4,000 customers in 66 countries, ranging from SME business to global enterprises.

HighJump's functionally rich and highly adaptable end-to-end solutions help users achieve new levels of supply chain responsiveness, performance and profitability, from the warehouse to the storefront, from the desktop to the driver's cab. HighJump's suite of warehousing, manufacturing, transportation, distribution, mobile delivery and retail solutions allow users to seamlessly drive growth, customer satisfaction and revenue by delivering goods faster and more profitably.

HighJump: supply chain accelerated. For more information, visit http://www.highjump.com.

HighJump is a trademark of HighJump Software Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Media Contacts

Heather K. Smith

HighJump

1-800-328-3271 x 2717

[email protected]

Richard Evans

+27 11 431 0095

iWMS

[email protected]

Milan Vyas

BIDCO Africa Limited

254 780524044

[email protected]

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/653598/HighJump_logo_2_Logo.jpg

Related Links

https://www.highjump.com



SOURCE HighJump
Nordion's increased focus on gamma technologies supports Sotera Health's company-wide commitment to Safeguarding Global Health

BROADVIEW HEIGHTS, Ohio, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Sotera Health LLC, the world's leading, fully integrated protector of global health, today announced the closing of the sale of the Medical Isotopes segment within its Nordion business to BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT).

With the sale, BWXT now owns Nordion's former medical isotopes business, including the radiochemical and contract manufacturing operations in Kanata, Ontario, and the isotope production facility in Vancouver, British Columbia, along with transfer of approximately 150 employees. Nordion retains ownership of its gamma technologies business as well as its state-of-the-art licenced facility in Kanata. Separately, the companies also signed a long-term lease agreement that will allow BWXT to continue operating from Nordion's Kanata facility.

"We are seeing significant growth and new business opportunities for gamma technologies, especially in the exciting new therapeutic applications that are emerging for medical cobalt-60," said Michael Petras, Chief Executive Officer of Sotera Health. "This sale allows Nordion to focus its full attention on accelerating growth in gamma technologies to bring our customers additional value in support of our Sotera Health mission, Safeguarding Global Health."

About Sotera Health:

Sotera Health LLC, along with its business entities, is the world's leading, fully integrated protector of global health. With over 500 years of combined scientific expertise, the company ensures the safety of healthcare by providing mission-critical services to the medical device, pharmaceutical, tissue and food industries. Sotera Health operates 61 facilities in 13 countries. The company has over 2,600 employees globally and touches the lives of more than 180 million people around the world each year. Sotera Health serves more than 5,000 customers worldwide including 75 of the top 100 medical device manufacturers.

Sotera Health goes to market through its three best-in-class companies  Nelson Labs, Nordion and Sterigenics  with the mission of ensuring the safety of healthcare each and every day. Nelson Labs offers microbiological and analytical testing and expert advisory services to assist customers in developing and maintaining sterilization solutions in medical devices, tissue/implantable products, and the pharmaceutical and biologics fields. Nordion is the world's largest provider of Cobalt-60 used in the gamma sterilization process and the treatment of various diseases and cancers. Sterigenics provides comprehensive contract sterilization and ionization solutions for the medical device, pharmaceutical, food safety and high-performance materials industries.

Sotera Health LLC is owned by private equity firms Warburg Pincus and GTCR. Learn more about Sotera Health at soterahealth.com, about Nelson Labs at nelsonlabs.com, about Nordion at nordion.com and about Sterigenics at sterigenics.com.

Contacts:

Dan Pfeffer

Public Affairs Advisors

343-883-5559

[email protected]

Kristin A. Gibbs

Chief Marketing Officer

Sotera Health LLC

440-262-1412

[email protected]

Related Links

http://soterahealth.com



SOURCE Sotera Health
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jimmoyer said: PoisonPete2 ?



The irony of Chavez's assistance to Boston and New York is greatly appreciated, but the irony of his prioritizing aid to one group over his own country does not escape you ?



You just might come up with other ironies to make me ponder, but it won't cancel the irony I just presented you. Click to expand...

Answer - Do you know the meaning of the word 'irony'? Does the word 'irony' have a pejorative meaning to you?Chavez is implimenting systemic changes in Venezuela to move toward the reduction of poverty. This is a long-term solution, not a short-sighted 'quick fix'. (remember that ol' saw 'feed a man a fish and he'll eat that day. Teach him to fish and he will feed himself forever'.) They have made great strides, though the 'old guard' fascists conspired with America to create many obstacles to change. This calls for social, economic, and political shifts in a country that had never given a damn for the poor.The provision of home heating fuel to some poor people in the North-East U.S.A. is an act of charity. Charity is giving aid or succor to another without expectation. It is the antithesis of your 'ironic' implication that Chavez should disregard the suffering of others just because many of his people suffer. I have seen great charity among the poor in '3rd world' countries. Perhaps his charity is an outgrowth of his culture.There is likely an aspect of this act related to Chavez gesturing toward the American people that the sins of their leader (Bush) are not visited upon them. While Chavez is angered that the U.S government backed an attempted coup against him, angered that the U.S. government has been spying on Venezuela, angered that the U.S. government has fostered industrial sabotage against the economy of Venezuela, and somewhat upset that Bush has ordered and reviewed assassination plans against him, his act of charity is a symbol that he does not blame the U.S. people.News of North America is not the mainstay content of the Venezuelan media. You see, there is life outside of 'fortress America'. Chavez' act of giving oil to the poor of the U.S. has had coverage and has received wide-spread support in Venezuela. Many people are proud of their country for helping others. I have heard absolutely no rancor like 'hey how about me' or 'help only Venezuelans'. Of course a lot of the media in Venezuela are slamming him. After all, most are owned by one man (a Rebublican supporter). But the people are seeing through the propaganda and are understanding it as an act of generousity on behalf of the people of this new Bolivar state.The big joke is that it is sad that so many northerners freeze for six months of the year. That gets a lot of laughs. :lol:
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
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English Lithuanian

Siauliu Bankas AB, company code 112025254, address of the head office Tilzes str. 149, Siauliai, Lithuania.



On 06/08/2018 Siauliu bankas AB received loan conversion notice from European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (hereinafter  EBRD) on the implementation of the right to convert the loan granted to Siauliu bankas AB under Subordinated Convertible Loan Agreement, concluded on 23/02/2013 by and between Siauliu bankas AB and EBRD. Under this agreement EBRD has a right, at its sole discretion, to demand Siauliu bankas AB to convert the loan into ordinary shares of Siauliu bankas AB. Siauliu bankas AB received demand to convert the whole outstanding principal amount of the loan, which on the date amounts to EUR 20,000,000, conversion price should be equal to EUR 0,35 per share.

Siauliu bankas AB General Meeting of the Shareholders will be convened to implement the conversion right of the EBRD. Siauliu bankas AB will inform shareholders about the convening of the General Meeting of the Shareholders in accordance with the procedure established by the Law on Companies of the Republic of Lithuania.



Additional information shall be provided by Chief Executive Officer Vytautas Sinius, tel. +370 52 362 209.
USO San Diego recently announced that Rancho Santa Fe resident JJ Quinn, Admiral, USN (Ret.) and Marshall Nadel have accepted board membership.

Quinn currently represents the San Diego Padres as a board director of the San Diego Military Advisory Council, and as a member of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce Defense, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee. Prior to joining the Padres, Quinn completed successful careers in the US Navy, and also as an executive with Northrop Grumman Corporation.

Before joining Northrop, Quinn retired from the U.S. Navy after a long and notable career. He was a Naval Flight Officer, and spent his operational tours onboard aircraft carriers flying the F-4 Phantom and F-14 Tomcat aircraft. His assignment prior to retirement was Director of Operations, Plans, Policy and Training for the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. He also served as the Naval Aide to two U.S. Presidents, Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush.

Nadel is an insurance broker and consultant in all aspects of power generation and utilities industries, including renewable and nuclear energy. He serves as an executive vice president at Aon Risk Services and is on the management team of Aons Natural Resources Group.

Nadels 22 years of experience in the insurance industry have been devoted exclusively to addressing the risk management needs of gas and electric utilities, including independent power and nuclear generation, domestically and overseas. His prior experience included five years as an officer in the U.S. Navys Nuclear Submarine Force. Nadel served as the Aon Risk Services of Texas representative to various industry groups including the Electric Power Supply Association, the American Gas Association, the Nuclear Energy Institute and the Edison Electric Institute, and he has addressed these groups on various occasions regarding insurance and risk management issues. He is a standing member of NEIs National Price Anderson working group.

A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, and DePaul Universitys Graduate School of Business, Nadel received his Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter designation in 1987, and is a Member of the American Nuclear Society. As a Captain in the United States Naval Reserve Intelligence Program, he has commanded one of the largest military reserve units in the United States.

Were deeply honored to welcome JJ and Marshall to the USO San Diego board of directors, said Lorin Stewart, USO San Diego President and CEO. JJ and Marshall bring a wealth of business acumen to our organization, and each has a long and distinguish history of serving in and supporting our military.
In a 2013 interview, Kurtis Buckley, student resource officer at Rantoul Township High School, discussed the schools then-new tips website. Buckley said last week that the tips site is one of the ways he and school officials keep tabs on potential threats to students and personnel.
One more bankruptcy claim filed against Summa groups subsidiary

 Fotolia/ Irochka

10:20 07/08/2018

MOSCOW, August 7 (RAPSI)  Siberian ENTC company has filed a claim with the Moscow Commercial Court seeking bankruptcy of Global Electro Service, a subsidiary of businessman Ziyavudin Magomedovs Summa Group, the court ruling reads.

Earlier, the court ruled not to review a bankruptcy motion against Global Electro Service filed by Transengineering company. The court extended the period during which the debtor may repay the applicant.

In December, the Ninth Commercial Court of Appeals approved a settlement between two companies. According to the agreement, the Global Electro Service acknowledged its 36.2-million-ruble ($626,000) debt.

On March 31, the Tverskoy District Court of Moscow detained businessman Ziyavudin Magomedov charged with organizing a criminal group and large-scale fraud. During the court hearing, an investigator noted that there are four more defendants in the case with two of them hiding in the United Arab Emirates.

Magomedov himself vehemently denied wrongdoing and said that all of his actions served development of his business. The defendants lawyer Maria Belyavskaya said that there is no indication that Magomedov committed a crime as an individual and as a businessman he may be only suspected of economic crimes.

Investigators believe that Magomedov organized a gang and embezzled 2.5 billion rubles ($43.5 million) from the state budget moving some of these assets outside the country. Other defendants in the case are his brother Megomed Magomedov and ex-CEO of construction company Intex Arthur Maksidov.
Moscow court upholds detention of four defendants in St. Petersburg terror attack case

 flickr.com/Damien

13:59 07/08/2018

MOSCOW, August 7 (RAPSI)  The Moscow City Court has upheld extension of detention of four defendants in a criminal case over terror attack in St. Petersburg metro in April 2017, the press-service of the court has told RAPSI.

The court has dismissed appeals filed by Akram Azimov, Shokhista Karimova, Seyfull Khakimov and Makhamadyusuf Mirzaalimov.

On August 2, the Investigative Committee stated that the law enforcement completed preliminary investigation into the St. Petersburg metro terror attack case.

On April 3, 2017, an unknown device exploded in a train between St. Petersburg metro stations Technological Institute and Sennaya Ploshchad. According to law enforcement authorities, 16 people died in the blast including a suicide bomber, over 50 were wounded. 112 persons were acknowledged as victims in the criminal case.

Investigators believe that an organization with a goal of spreading terrorist activity, including attacks on Russia and its citizens, was founded in Syria. According to investigators, the suicide bomber Akbarzhon Dzhalilov manufactured two explosives and brought them to the St. Petersburg metro.

One of the bombs that Dzhalilov kept to himself exploded around 2:40 PM Moscow time between St. Petersburg metro stations Technological Institute and Sennaya Ploshchad. The second bomb located at Ploshchad Vosstaniya station failed to detonate due to its malfunction and was subsequently found and disarmed.
Ex-Russian senators sentence for $3 mln embezzlement upheld

 RAPSI

15:59 07/08/2018

ST. PETERSBURG, August 7 (RAPSI, Mikhail Telekhov)  The St. Petersburg City Court has upheld a sentence of ex-Russian senator and owner of Liviz liquor producer Alexander Sabadash in a 190 million-ruble ($3 million) embezzlement case, the United press service of St. Petersburg courts has told RAPSI.

The court also dismissed appeals filed by the banks chairman Sergey Somov and his deputy Dmitry Garkusha, against their sentence. The defendants have demanded to return the case to prosecutors.

In October 2017, Sabadash received 8.5 years in prison for embezzlement from the Bank Tavrichesky. Somov and Garkusha were sentenced to 7 years in prison each. Moreover, all defendants were fined 100,000 rubles ($1,600) each.

According to case papers, from June to December 2013, Somov, Garkusha and Sabadash stole 190 million rubles by signing credit contracts in violation of a procedure of approval and processing of loans established in the bank. The defendants transferred the embezzled money to accounts of foreign companies controlled by Sabadash.

In 2015, Sabadash received a 6-year prison sentence for attempted embezzlement of 1.8 billion rubles (about $30 million) involving Arkhangelsk-based developer ES-Kontaktstroy and JSC Vyborgskaya Cellulose. Sabadash, believed to be the owner of Vyborgskaya Cellulose, has organized a fraudulent VAT refund scheme, according to investigators.

Sabadash was stripped of his seat in the parliaments upper house, the Federation Council, in 2006 after he was accused of carrying out business activities, which senators are forbidden to do.
Russian high-ranking investigator Lamonov appeals sentence for corruption

  /

16:58 07/08/2018

MOSCOW, August 7 (RAPSI)  Alexander Lamonov, Russias former high-ranking investigator has appealed his 5-year prison sentence for receiving a large-scale bribe, the Moscow City Courts press-service has told RAPSI.

On July 26, the court found the defendant guilty of corruption. Aside from being sentenced to the prison term, he was also fined 32 million rubles ($508,000) and lost his rank.

Trial against Lamonov was held behind closed doors due to secret information contained in the case documents. The case was reviewed under a special procedure because the defendant pleaded guilty and made a deal with investigators.

Lamonov, ex-First Deputy Head of the Investigative Committees Moscow Directorate, General Denis Nikandrov and ex-chief of the Investigative Committees Internal Security Directorate Mikhail Maksimenko have been arrested and detained as part of a case over extortion of 8 million rubles (about $138,000 at the current exchange rate) that involved an alleged gang leader Zakhariy Kalashov. In addition, investigators believe that they extorted 10 million rubles (about $170,000) from a head of a large joint-stock company. The defendants denied their communications with Kalashov.

On April 20, Maksimenko was found guilty of taking two bribes and received 13 years in prison. The defendant was also fined 165 million rubles ($2.8 million).

According to prosecutors, in 2016, Maksimenko and his accomplice received $500,000 bribe for help with one of criminal cases. He was also charged with taking $50,000 bribe in 2015 for organizing unlawful criminal prosecution of law enforcement officers in the interests of a bribe-giver.
NEW YORK, Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The American Health Council welcomes John C. Wuellner, MD to its Physician Board for his unparalleled skills and contributions to the medical field. For the past 15 years as an internal medicine physician at BJC Medical Group in Anton, Ill., Dr. Wuellner has provided high-quality care to countless patients. Specializing in internal medicine, he has molded and perfected his outstanding physician skills during nearly 40 years in the healthcare industry.



As a child, Dr. Wuellner often watched his mother prepare to go to work as a nurse. Her dedication and passion to her career inspired him to pursue a profession in the medical field. He enrolled at Southern Illinois University and earned a bachelors degree in biology in 1974; he attended graduate school at Michigan State University for one year pursuing a degree in pharmacology. While he was in graduate school, he was accepted into the University of Illinois College of Medicine. After graduating from medical school in 1979, he completed his internship and residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. He relocated back to his hometown of Alton, IL and has been practicing medicine there since 1982.

At BJC Medical Group, Dr. Wuellner performs routine hospital rounds  usually twice a day  as well as sees patients in his office. He is known for his strong work ethic as well as his strength in clinical skills. He has served as Chairman of the Department of Medicine, and from 2013-2017, Vice president and then President of the Medical Staff at Alton Memorial Hospital. He received the Alton Memorial Hospital Chairmans Award in 2015; it is awarded annually to a physician who typifies the mission of Alton Memorial Hospital and has contributed significant service to the hospital. He also earned the first ever Clinical Specialist Award at Alton Memorial Hospital in 2013.

With a fruitful career that continues to prosper each day, Dr. Wuellner attributes his success to truly enjoying what he does. He personalizes the care he gives to each patient and takes the time to listen to and educate his patients. As a family-oriented person, he is proud of his son and daughter  a military doctor who is currently an orthopedic surgery resident and a family practice physician assistant respectively  as well as his wife, Dr. Kathie Wuellner, who is a pediatrician.

In his spare time, he enjoys farming, hunting and fishing (particularly with his family) and visiting his grandchildren. He plans to continue to work in the medical field for several more years providing excellent care.

About the American Health Council:

The American Health Council is the nations only organization with a constituency representative of all sectors of the healthcare industry. From the coasts to the heartland, the American Health Council has drawn Affiliates from major metropolitan hubs and small communities. These Affiliates span generations and have reached different stages of their careers  from recent graduates to retirees. More information about the American Health Council and its mission can be found at: http://americanhealthcouncil.org

Additionally, the American Health Council strives to provide recognition and support for those individuals and institutions making the difference in patients lives day in and day out. The AHC is honoring Americas Best Doctors and Nurses, as well as the nations best medical universities and hospitals. The American Health Councils Best in Medicine and Best in Nursing awards programs honor the individuals and institutions that have contributed significantly to medicine and nursing, as well as the training and education of physicians and nurses. The most current selections for these honors may be viewed here: http://bestinmedicine.org and http://bestinnursing.org.

For more information, please contact:

Elizabeth Moore

American Health Council

Hauppauge, NY United States

Phone: 1-631-617-6590
Russian Human Rights Council proposes criminal penalty for HIV denialism

 RIA Novosti, Ruslan Krivobok

11:59 07/08/2018

MOSCOW, August 7 (RAPSI)  Russias Presidential Council for Human Rights has recommended the government to consider imposition of criminal punishment for propaganda of HIV denialism, a statement released on the advisory bodys website reads.

According to the Human Rights Council, HIV denialism is one of the main problems hindering enhancement of the disease control efficiency and primarily affecting minors.

Other problems in this field include defects in HIV laboratory tests conducted in unspecialized organizations, faults in statistical recording and absence of regulation of a work permit procedure for health care workers in the event of HI virus detection, the statement reads.

Human rights advocates recommended the Health Ministry to adopt corresponding legislation for the solution of these issues.
'Ask a beat journalist their opinion, and you will always be told that they are more worried about writing something that would upset a company than something that would anger a politician,' says Mihir S Sharma.

It's likely that, when you think about threats to the freedom of speech and expression in India, you imagine that the government is the big threat.

If you are perhaps the sort of person who has been following it a little more closely, you might worry about unhinged mobs, empowered by a State that fails to protect its citizens from vigilante justice.

And there is much to be worried about in both cases.

The government is indeed a threat, as are marauding mobs. But the truth is that corporate India is a pernicious threat too -- perhaps even more dangerous in some ways, and maybe more effective.

Consider the latest such development.

PepsiCo has obtained, according to the Web site Medianama, an interim order from the Delhi high court taking down tens of thousands of posts on various social media Web sites that attacked Kurkure, the conglomerate's fast food product.

Though, seriously, in such cases 'food' should be contained within inverted commas. The company claimed that these posts furthered the myth that Kurkure contained plastic.

Some such posts, however, were simple humorous riffs on Kurkure's awfulness, or commentary on and satirisation of the pervasive myth itself -- which should be permitted under the free speech regulations of any liberal country.

Think about this for a second. Naturally, Kurkure does not contain plastic.

I am quite certain that if it did so, then the Centre for Science and Environment, which has worked pretty hard at checking up on PepsiCo in the past, would likely have pointed it out by now.

But I don't think that claiming it tastes like plastic should be the subject of litigation.

Indeed, if I were PepsiCo's senior management and I discovered that one of the most generally believed facts about a major brand was that it was full of plastic, I would worry less about the posts claiming it, and more about why everyone was so willing to believe the story.

But why should a company seek to use the law to control what people say about its product in this manner?

Is this a campaign orchestrated by its corporate rivals?

Or is it just another Internet meme of the sort that occasionally comes along?

What does it say about Indian law and jurisprudence that a company would prefer to fight a branding battle in the courts rather than through a marketing campaign?

Ask a beat journalist their opinion, and you will always be told that they are more worried about writing something that would upset a company than something that would anger a politician.

Politicians might call your editor; some companies -- that will, for obvious reasons, go nameless -- might sue you for hundreds of crores.

Many of us are trolled or threatened on Twitter. But a big defamation suit is far more likely to have a chilling effect on speech than simple trolling.

Many people have long argued that criminal defamation is a relic of the past that must be abolished.

It biases speech that is actually expressed towards those who are more capable of using the law in their defence -- in other words, it protects the rich and particularly the most unscrupulous companies.

As a consequence, we have a far less compliant and values-driven private sector than we deserve.

We go after companies and corporate leaders once the evidence has piled up against them, and not before.

Politicians, for all their faults, are less likely to use the law against the media. Any journalist could name half a dozen companies that are more dangerous to discuss in print than any politician in India, even the prime minister.

We cannot expect companies to be paragons of virtue.

After all, PepsiCo's management could legitimately claim that their sole duty is to maximise shareholder value using all the tools at their command -- including the law.

No, if we want a better private sector then we need to change the law to make it more difficult to intimidate Web sites and social media users.

None of this should, in any way, be construed as support of fake news. If there is indeed a coordinated campaign against Kurkure, it needs to be acted against.

But if there is a simply fake news being spread, then it is important to realise that retrospective legal action is not likely to silence rumours.

You would need censorship operations on the scale run by the People's Republic of China to do that. And nobody can do that on such a scale and with that much efficiency except the People's Republic.

Instead of misusing the law, I suggest corporate India join the fight against fake news.

The rest of us worry endlessly about politically motivated rumours, or WhatsApp lynchings, or concocted viral videos about Rohingyas or riots.

Some of us, like the business journalist Govindraj Ethiraj, have actually set up fact-checking Web sites trying to address this problem.

The cure for bad speech, like fake news, is more speech.

If corporate India wants to fix the fake news problem, it should work with those who are already addressing it.
Besides launching 50 products with a refreshed logo, Britannia to issue bonus debentures of Rs 720 crore

On its centenary year, the board of Britannia Industries has approved issuance of secured redeemable non-convertible debentures as bonus debentures of Rs 60 in the ratio of one such debenture for every equity share.

Also, it has proposed a share split that the board will decide in the next meeting on August 23.

Speaking at the companys annual general meeting on Monday, Britannia chairman Nusli Wadia said the company would incur Rs 720 crore for issuance of bonus debentures and the total payout to shareholders, including bonus, would be more than Rs 1,000 crore.

These debentures will be issued out of the Rs 2,515-crore balance in retained earnings, which was available as on March 31, 2018.

Later, in a filing with BSE, Britannia said it would be issuing 12 crore bonus debentures of Rs 720 crore.

The firm will utilise balance in retained earnings to the extent of Rs 8.69 billion, including deemed dividend tax, the filing said. These debentures will be listed in the BSE and NSE after getting nod from the National Company Law Tribunal.

According to the company, there will be no change in the paid up equity capital of Britannia Industries pre and post issue of bonus debentures.

This apart, it has recommended a dividend of 1,250 per cent, which amounts to Rs 25 per share having a face value of Rs 2 each, bringing the total dividend payout to Rs 362 crore.

Varun Berry, Britannias managing director, said 50 products would be launched this year to celebrate 100 years of the company.

In previous instances, company officials had stated the focus of the company would be on premiumisation.

The company is in the process of launching croissants and has partnered with Greece based Chipita for this endeavour.

It is likely to be launched towards the end of this year, Wadia said.

Its 2018 annual report states: The intention will be to launch products which also target the same snacking occasions that we target today but with new and innovative products.

Answering a shareholders query, Berry claimed Britannia had overtaken Parle G to be the market leader in biscuits with a 33 per cent share in terms of value.

However, in terms of volume of brands, Parle G still dominates the market and it will take two-three years for Britannia to pull ahead of Parle G brand with its Good Day products.

The company has set a target to evolve into a complete foods company rather than limit itself to biscuits, cakes, rusks, cakes and dairy products.

Nusli Wadia said the company was looking at acquisitions and expansion into new geographies.

Despite demonetisation and Goods and Services Tax woes in the past fiscal year, the company hit every single target, said Wadia. Britannia had set a target to sell 5 crore packs every day, churn a Rs 10,000 crore top line with a Rs 1,500 crore gross profit and Rs 1,000 crore net profit.

We have now got a very strong foundation - not only in terms of financials but also of management.

"We are on a very strong footing and in a position to look at adjacencies, said Wadia, pointing out that it would focus on growing the company substantially and not only on the laurels of the past.

The company, after marking its presence in more than 79 countries, is in the process of opening a plant in Nepal, where it entered recently and already became the market leader.

It is also eyeing expansion across West Asian and North African markets.

Wadia launched the new logo to mark the centenary year and said the company was carrying forward its brand heritage by giving the logo a modern look.

Berry said the companys profitability increased from Rs 232 crore in 2013 to Rs 1,290 crore in 2018, while its market cap rose from Rs 5,000 crore in 2012 to Rs 78,000 crore in 2017.

One of the key drivers, according to Berry, has been increasing its direct reach to cover nearly 1.9 crore outlets.

Britannia will be focusing on increasing its direct retail presence in the days ahead.

Photograph: Courtesy, Britannia
CHICAGO, Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BrandMuscle, the leader in brand-to-one marketing and innovator of the BrandBuilder integrated marketing platform, announced today that Facebook has recognized the company as a certified Facebook Marketing Partner.



This highly exclusive recognition is reserved for only the strongest partners in each category, as evidenced by only 11 companies certified with the Small Business Solutions badge. According to Facebook, companies recognized as a Marketing Partners are counted among the best in the industry with demonstrated excellence in technologies and services for small and locally based businesses.

When you see a company like BrandMuscle with a Small Business Badge, you can be assured that they have the experience and know-how to learn your business, understand your marketing needs, and tailor an effective Facebook campaign while utilizing our marketing best practices, said David Richards, Product Growth Manager at Facebook.

Facebook continues to be a rapidly growing part of BrandMuscles offerings, as the company has increased the amount of advertising placed for local business partners by 48 percent year-over-year and grown local businesses serviced by nearly 20 percent in the last year. Because of its relatively low cost and high ROI, the social media platform remains one of the most used tactics for local business partners, according to BrandMuscles State of Local Marketing Report, with nearly 80 percent saying they use Facebook to market their business.

BrandMuscle clients will undoubtedly feel the positive impact from this recognition. The Small Business Badge allows BrandMuscle clients to stay at the forefront of emerging opportunities with Facebook while benefiting from the advanced training and thought leadership provided to BrandMuscle.

We are honored to be acknowledged as a Facebook Marketing Partner with the Small Business Badge, said Paul Elliott, BrandMuscle President. Facebooks certification recognizes our longstanding commitment to providing the best services and solutions to our clients, innovation in brand-to-one marketing, and our leadership and continuous growth in the digital channel.

About BrandMuscle

BrandMuscle is the leader in brand-to-one marketing. A pioneer in distributed/local marketing, BrandMuscle serves more than 300 of the worlds top brands with a team of nearly 800 can-do professionals in six offices globally and embedded within 75 client locations. The BrandMuscle integrated marketing platform enables brands and their local marketing partners to simply deliver the greatest marketing impact to each individual customer. BrandMuscle simplifies the process of digital and physical marketing executions, enabling brands to acquire and retain the best customers, build loyalty, enhance lifetime customer value, and achieve significant, measurable ROI. To learn more, call (866) 464-4342, visit BrandMuscle.com or follow on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn.

A video accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7bb68d97-a60b-4152-bdee-5d39fa2f7aa1
Now is the time to shift my priorities to my family, said the outgoing PepsiCo CEO.

IMAGE: Indra Nooyi says it's time she now focuses on her family. She said that being the CEO of PepsiCo was all consuming and that it was her main priority, but won't be anymore after she steps down . Photograph: Don Heupel/Reuters

Indra Nooyi has ruled out joining politics and will now focus on her family after her long-innings at the worlds second-largest food and beverage giant PepsiCo.

PepsiCo on Monday announced that its Board of Directors have unanimously elected Ramon Laguarta, 54, to succeed Indian-origin Nooyi as Chief Executive Officer.

Nooyi, 62, will step down on October 3 after 24 years with the company, the last 12 as chief executive officer. She will remain Chairman until early 2019 to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

Nooyis departure in two months will further diminish the already small group of female Fortune 500 CEOs, she is one of just 25, and the even more minuscule ranks of women of colour.

It concerns me in that we can actually count how many there are, as opposed to saying there are hundreds, she told Fortune in an interview.

IMAGE: Indra meets Trump after he became US president. Nooyi said that after he became US president, there were serious concerns among the company's employees, especially the non-white employees. Photograph: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

Nooyi said in the interview that she did not yet know what she wanted to do next, but added that she would not be running for office.

Im not good at politics, the Chennai-born said.

Im just a good worker bee, Nooyi, who has not been afraid to get political, said.

After the 2016 United States presidential elections, Nooyi had said Democrat Hillary Clintons loss to Republican Donald Trump left her daughters and PepsiCos employees devastated and there were serious concerns among the companys workers, especially the non-white employees, about their safety in an America with Trump as its president.

Nooyi said that after her departure from PepsiCo, her focus will be on her family.

Being the CEO of a company is all consuming, she said. When you are the CEO, especially of such a large company, theres only one priority, and that priority is being CEO. I think my family was short-changed a lot. The last 24 years, the PepsiCo family always came first.

She added, Now is the time to shift my priorities to my family.

Nooyi got married in 1980 to Raj Nooyi, President of AmSoft Systems. They have two daughters.

According to the Fortune report, before the announcement of Nooyis exit, PepsiCos stock was flat year over year and its beverage sales in North America had dropped for four consecutive quarters as consumers look for alternatives to soda. Nooyi said that the timing of her departure was unrelated.

I look at our performance over a long period of time, she said. The company is in great shape.

Nooyi added that talks about her transition started approximately one year ago as Laguarta was named PepsiCos president last July.

Ive been in the company 24 years, and its been a labour of love, said Nooyi in the interview. At some point, youve got to sit back and say, what do I want to do with my life.

IMAGE: Indra Nooyi's departure in two months will further diminish the already small group of female Fortune 500 CEOs, she is one of just 25, and the even more minuscule ranks of women of colour. She said one area she would like to give more time to would be getting more women into the top echelons of management. Photograph: Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images

An area that interests Nooyi is getting more women into the top echelons of management.

In many ways, I think after stepping down as CEO I can work with other women to figure out how to get them to c-suite positions and as a mentor and supporter, she said.

There is need to focus on removing barriers to womens progress, she said.

I see the struggles women go through, and you can not expect every woman to be a superwoman, she said.

It just doesnt work because theres one constraint we all have, and thats that there are only 24 hours in a day.

Nooyi, one of the worlds most powerful and influential business leaders, said leading PepsiCo has been the honour of her lifetime, and she is incredibly proud of all the company has done over the past 12 years to advance the interests of shareholders and stakeholders.

Among the few executives to break the glass ceiling in corporate America, Nooyi had also created history by being among the few India-born females to lead a global giant when she took over the reins at PepsiCo.

Nooyi described the development as a day of mixed emotions for me. She said PepsiCo has been my life for nearly a quarter century and part of my heart will always remain here.

But I am proud of all weve done to position PepsiCo for success, confident that Ramon and his senior leadership team will continue prudently balancing short-term and long-term priorities, and excited for all the great things that are in store for this company. PepsiCos best days are still ahead of it, she said on Monday in the company statement.
India looking at bringing back Choksi under Antiguan law applicable to Commonwealth countries

India is eyeing to bring back bank fraud accused Mehul Choksi from Antigua under the provision of a law of the island nation which provides for extradition of a fugitive to a designated Commonwealth country, official sources said.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a gazette notification on August 3 to make the Antiguan law enforceable and bring back Choksi. India and Antigua do not have a bilateral extradition pact.

"As per the provisions of the Extradition Act, 1993 of Antigua and Barbuda, a fugitive may be extradited to a designated Commonwealth Country or a State with which there are general or special arrangement or a bilateral treaty," said a source.

The notification specified that the provisions of India's Extradition Act, 1962 shall apply to Antigua and Barbuda with retrospective effect from 2001 when the Caribbean nation notified India as designated Commonwealth Country under its extradition law law.

India has handed over a request to Antigua for extradition of Mehul Choksi who is charged in connection with India's biggest banking fraud and is now living in the Caribbean nation after taking its citizenship.

The sources said the notification will constitute an extradition arrangement between India and Antigua under the island nation's Extradition Act of 1993.

A team comprising officials from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and other agencies was sent to Antigua a couple of days ago to request the Antiguan authorities to extradite Choksi, wanted in India in the $2 billion Punjab National bank scam.

The team, led by additional secretary in the MEA's Consular and Passport Division here, also presented details of the case against Choksi who is one of the alleged masterminds of the scam along with his nephew Nirav Modi.

As per reports, Antiguan authorities cleared Choksi's citizenship in November 2017 after India did not give any adverse report to stall his application for it.

Choksi had fled India on January 4 this year and took oath of allegiance in Antigua on January 15.

His citizenship was cleared in November 2017. Choksi's application for citizenship in Antigua in May 2017 was accompanied with clearance from the local police as required by norms, Antiguan newspaper the Daily Observer reported, citing a statement from the Citizenship by Investment Unit of Antigua and Barbuda (CIU).

It noted the police clearance certificate (PCC) from the Regional Passport Office in Mumbai said that there was no adverse information against Choksi which would render him ineligible for grant of travel facilities including visa for Antigua and Barbuda.

When asked about the PCC to Choksi, a spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs had said it was given on the basis of a clear police verification report (PVR) available on his passport that time.

Under the Citizenship by Investment Program of Antigua and Barbuda, a person can take their passport on a minimum investment of $100,000 in the National Development Fund.

Choksi and his companies allegedly availed credit from overseas branches of Indian banks using the fraudulent guarantees of PNB given through letters of undertaking (LoUs) and letters of credit issued by the Brady House branch which were not repaid, bringing liability on the state-run bank, the officials have said.

An LoU is a guarantee given by an issuing bank to Indian banks having branches abroad to grant short-term credit to the applicant.
Sources at the NSE as well as the Presidents office rejected media reports that Kovinds pulling out of the event had to do with reasons other than his packed itinerary this week.

President Ram Nath Kovind has pulled out of Wednesdays launch of the silver jubilee celebrations of the National Stock Exchange (NSE).

The Presidents office has attributed his inability to attend the event on his busy schedule this week, including the need for him to devote time to prepare his customary Independence Day eve address to the nation on August 14.

Sources at the NSE as well as the Presidents office rejected media reports that Kovinds pulling out of the event had to do with reasons other than his packed itinerary this week.

President Kovinds Press Secretary Ashok Malik said unforeseen additions to his itinerary for this week, which werent known when he had given his tentative assent last month to attend the NSE event, led to his pulling out of Wednesday's event.

The NSE said the event was on schedule, and maintained the President cannot attend because of his busy schedule.

It said former prime minister Manmohan Singh and Union Cabinet ministers are set to attend Wednesdays celebrations in New Delhi.

The President gave alternative dates. Logistically it would have been challenging to reschedule an event of this magnitude, said an exchange source.

Over 500 invitations have been sent for the event. Most of the guests are from Mumbai and have already booked their travel and hotel accommodation.

"As a result, it would have been difficult to change the dates last minute, the NSE source added.

The NSE had dispatched invites of the event in the third week of July.

The invite from NSE chairman Ashok Chawla and its managing director and chief executive officer Vikram Limaye had stated that the silver jubilee celebrations will be launched by President Kovind on Wednesday.

Subsequently, the Presidents office sent a letter of regret to the NSE last week.

It is normal practice that the Presidents office conveys to organisers of any event that his participation is under active consideration.

"The office then sends out a final confirmation or regret, depending on the Presidents itinerary, some days before the event, Rashtrapati Bhavan sources said.

The President on Monday was in Kerala, and his visit to southern India had to be extended as he also visited ailing Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief M Karunanidhi at a hospital in Chennai.

The President is also scheduled to visit Uttar Pradesh on Friday, a visit that was arranged after the NSE had sent out the invite.

Exchange officials denied the turn of events had anything to do with NSE chairman Chawla.

The NSE chairman is chargesheeted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the Aircel-Maxis case.

Chawla retired as the finance secretary in 2011, and is one of the 12 individuals and six firms named in the Aircel-Maxis charge sheet filed last month.

The list also includes former finance minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti.

The CBI has two months to prosecute the charge-sheeted people, and Chawla can be prosecuted only if the Modi government permits it under the new provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

After retiring as finance secretary, the Congress-led UPA government had appointed Chawla the chairman of the Competition Commission of India.

The former IAS officer joined the NSE board in May 2016 and his term as chairman ends in March 2019.

The NSE said that the President in his greetings sent to NSE has complimented its pivotal role in providing a stable, transparent and globally trusted market platform and wished the silver jubilee celebrations every success.

Photograph: Danish Siddiqui/Reuters
TTV Dhinakarans call to the Congress to break up with the DMK and tie up with him, is aimed at consolidating the traditional anti-BJP votes.

The stronger message is to all anti-BJP constituencies in the state, especially the minorities and traditionally aligned sections of the Dalit community, that he could be trusted to take forward an anti-Hindutva agenda more seriously than anyone else, the DMK included, says N Sathiya Moorthy.

Rebel AIADMK leader TTV Dhinakaran, heading the breakaway Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam, has already sounded the poll bugle for the Lok Sabha elections, due in May 2018.

By declaring that he would be willing to consider a poll alliance with the Congress at the national level if the latter broke its ties with the DMK in Tamil Nadu, he is suddenly getting the kind of media that he had longed for but did not get, despite his massive victory in the by-election for late chief minister Jayalalithaas R K Nagar seat in Chennai.

Unreported by almost all sections of the state media, including the English language press, Dhinakaran has been making waves at the grassroots level through his well-attended periodic rallies distributed across regions, over the past few months.

The rallies also spoke for his organisational skills, acknowledged by a victorious Jayalalithaa and others, as her campaign manager in the Andipatti assembly bypolls, held after the Supreme Court had acquitted her in the TANSI land deal case, flowing from her first term as chief minister (1991-96).

What the rallies could not do for Dhinakaran in terms of media coverage, his controversial appeal to the Congress ally has done now. The DMK, whose leaders are in no mood to join a political exchange when nonagenarian patriarch M Karunanidhis health has been a great cause for concern, has stayed quiet, but various sections of the state Congress, starting with TNCC president Su Thirunavukkarasar, have dismissed Dhinakarans invitation as out-of-hand and out-of-turn.

However, Thirunavukkarasar did not fail to send out a message to the DMK ally, too, pointing out how various political outfits in the state, including the PMK, VCK and now AMMK, have been wooing the party. With most anti-BJP, anti-AIADMK national and regional parties piling on to the DMK, the latter will find it difficult to arrive at a win-win seat-sharing arrangement of 2004, which Karunanidhi had defined and designed.

Then, with anti-BJP, anti-AIADMK sentiments against the ruling parties at the Centre and the state palpable ahead of the 2004 Lok Sabha elections, Karunanidhi had only one question to all prospective allies: Do you want to contest 10 seats and win one, or contest three or four seats and win all? It worked, and the DMK-led combine swept all 40 seats, including the lone one from the Union territory of Puducherry.

The DMK also made the best possible compromise at the time, contesting only 16 seats -- but won all of them. In the company of the BJP-NDA at the Centre in the preceding election 1999, the DMK contested 19 seats and won 12, the alliance itself winning a total of 26 out of 40. The rival AIADMK-Congress combine bagged the remaining 14, including Puducherry.

Dhinakarans early call to the Congress party is not only to draw media attention or make political hay when the DMK is demoralised over Karunanidhis health. He is tempted by real politico-electoral calculations for the Congress party as much as his own AMMA.

First and foremost is the perceived consolidation of the anti-BJP minority votes in the state, first witnessed in Dhinakarans favour in the R K Nagar by-poll. Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling on an ailing Karunanidhi only weeks ahead of the by-election was enough for even traditional pro-Congress, pro-DMK minorities in the constituency to swing towards Dhinakaran, who was contesting as an Independent.

By seeking to consolidate the anti-BJP votes under his leadership, if only he could help it, Dhinakaran also seems to confuse the AIADMK cadres enough, considering that in the most recent election 2014, Jayalalithaa had swept the state with her campaign call, Modi-ya, indha Lady-ya? (Modi, or me?)

He is also aware that he needs more credible candidates than what he can offer from within his party, and campaign by national leaders like Rahul Gandhi and the Congresss regional allies from across the country, could well make a difference to his own personal standing and political image.

It is another matter that in the past, after winning a majority of the seats in elections 1999 in the BJPs company but losing the subsequent state assembly polls of 2001 to the rival AIADMK-TMC combine while in the Vajpayee government at the Centre, the DMK and local, pan-Tamil allies in the PMK and MDMK decided to part company ahead of elections 2004 to the Lok Sabha.

The three parties quitting the Vajpayee government in late 2003 hastened an early poll to the Lok Sabha, leading to the formation of the Congress-UPA combine and its electoral victory only months later.

It is another matter that ahead of Dhinakarans call to the Congress party, a section of the social media had revived vague rumours of the BJP wooing the DMK, too. To them at least, Vice President M Venakaiah Naidu calling on an ailing Karunanidhi at the hospital, while on a scheduled visit to Chennai, was part of the BJP strategy.

Thus, Dhinakarans call to the Congress is aimed at trying to consolidate the traditional anti-BJP votes, along with a substantial section of the AIADMK votes, which his camp claims is already on his side.

The stronger message is to all anti-BJP constituencies in the state, especially the minorities and traditionally aligned sections of the Dalit community, that he could be trusted to take forward an anti-Hindutva agenda more seriously than anyone else, the DMK included -- as much post-poll as pre-poll.

Allies and alliances for future elections apart, Dhinakaran has been able to garner substantial crowds at every one of his sub-regional rallies, that too without any media reports, before and/or after the events, leave alone media hype of whatever kind.

According to the ruling AIADMKs own admission, post-Jayalalithaa membership drive has been able to enrol only eight million members, against double that number when Amma was alive.

According to occasional claims in sections of the national media, as also anecdotal experiences, Dhinakaran seems to ooze the kind of self-confidence bordering on casual arrogance that seems to come naturally to him, as with Jayalalithaa before him.

In the post-Jallikattu era, it is interpreted as his willingness and ability to take on the Centre, wherever the states needs are compromised, compared to Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami, the DMKs M K Stalin and also star-politicians Kamalahassan and Rajinikanth, the latter having only floated the idea without actually floating a political party.

Whether true or not, it is this imagery that the Dhinakaran camp wants to project ahead of elections, though for him the real test is only when the assembly polls are called.

The AMMK is also awaiting the final outcome of the pending high court case against its 18 defector MLAs. Should the courts finally decide that their disqualification by Speaker P Dhanapalan was invalid, then they may be the partys candidates for the by-elections to those seats that would have to follow.

A more recent vacancy was caused by the death of AIADMK member, A K Bose, of southern Thirupparamkundram seat earlier this month. After the R K Nagar by-poll, the ensuing by-poll in the constituency is a life-and-death contest of sorts for all three leaders, namely, Dhinakaran, Palaniswami and DMKs Stalin.

The fourth lurking face is that of AIADMK Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, in whose traditional sphere of Mukkulathore community influence the constituency falls. Dhinakaran belongs to the same community and his rally in native Mannargudi, a little farther away, reportedly drew substantial crowds on Sunday evening.

A loss for the AIADMK could cloud OPSs clout within the party even more, while a victory may not compensate him enough in terms of shared power within the government and the party.

Beyond and behind all this are the pending court cases and various investigations launched by central agencies against Dhinakaran, both before and after Jayalalithaas death.

But unless any of it leads to his ultimate disqualification, not stopping with intervening conviction and jail term, it will well possible that Dhinakaran, like Jaya before him, could use it to display his self-confidence and self-righteousness, if only to impress an already converted constituency and hoping to convert many more.

N Sathiya Moorthy, veteran journalist and p0litical analyst, is director, Observer Research Foundation, Chennai Chapter.
'It is this difference in their personalities -- one in eloquent command of the requirements of Parliamentary debate, the other unable to infuse spontaneity in his script -- that will be as much a factor in who India votes for next year, as other more germane factors,' says Vikram Johri.

Rahul Gandhi's speech in Parliament during the no-confidence motion against the government was nearly equally hailed and dissed. His effort to reach out to the Treasury benches by bringing up the colourful terms that he is labelled with on social media seemed genuine and heartfelt.

Yet, ultimately, that infamous forced hug and the wink that followed it went to prove the truth of what the prime minister derided as his 'childishness' in another context. It was impossible to get rid of the feeling -- buoyed by the prime minister's painting of the motion as little more than an anti-Modi stratagem -- that Gandhi was in the House just for kicks.

Gandhi has been in the public eye for many years now, so it is baffling that he can still get up to the kind of antics he displayed in Parliament. One wonders if the hug-and-wink were aimed at bolstering the otherwise dilute constitution of his speech.

Riddled with generic arguments against the government, it failed to make an impact. The one point of specific criticism that he lobbed, pertaining to Rafale, backfired too.

One argument that the Congress repeatedly presents against the government -- and Gandhi included it in his speech -- is the infamous rejoinder made by Amit Anilchandra Shah in a 2015 interview to Modi's promise during the 2014 election about bringing home the black money stashed abroad.

The word Shah used -- jumla -- is now part of the Opposition's established jargon for criticising the government on any matter.

This has diminishing returns.

One, in public perception, Modi's record on black money -- from demonetisation to GST to the IBC -- is arguably more muscular than his inability to fill every bank account with Rs 15 lakh, which does -- and should -- sound like a metaphor for cleaning up the system.

To continue to flog this horse as if it were a realistic promise may not be the smartest strategy.

The prime minister, on the other hand, came prepared for the debate with data on his government's schemes, and spoke with a natural flourish that the Gandhi scion sorely lacks.

What must have particularly galled the Congress was Modi's shrewd portrayal of that innocuous, if ill-timed, hug as an expression of Gandhi's tearing hurry to occupy the prime minister's chair.

It is this difference in their personalities -- one in eloquent command of the requirements of Parliamentary debate, the other unable to infuse spontaneity in his script -- that will be as much a factor in who India votes for next year, as other more germane factors.

Gandhi recognises this and has gracefully complimented the prime minister on the latter's superior communication skills.

But he needs to do more. The Congress is keen to insinuate that their leader has been travelling the length and breadth of the country over the past few years and that this endeavour has given him a deeper insight into the issues that plague Indians.

But during speeches, Gandhi does not emanate the confidence that such large-scale travel should give him. The impression that he remains reliant on notes to speak on the most basic aspects of policy-making is hard to shake.

In contrast, the prime minister leaves no opportunity to remind the nation that he was an ordinary party worker for many years before he assumed power, first in Gujarat and then at the Centre.

In Chhattisgarh recently, to inaugurate an extension to the Bhilai Steel Plant, he spoke at length about his love for the region, developed over the many years he spent there as a young RSS pracharak.

During the no-confidence speech, the prime minister furthered this divide between himself as a grassroots man and Gandhi as belonging to the elite by bringing up, not for the first time, the naamdaar-kaamdaar dichotomy.

Paradoxically, for one of the most powerful leaders of his party and of the country, Modi is able to attach a penumbra of truth to this assertion because of his willingness to thus deprecate himself.

The wink played into this impression.

If Gandhi had not returned triumphantly to his seat after the hug and, in particular, not chosen such a brute measure to celebrate his triumphalism, the prime minister's subsequent remarks about the hug would have seemed churlish and in bad faith.

In this event, the wink frittered away the hug's goodwill and Gandhi, once again, gave reason for criticism inside the Parliament and lampooning outside.

The no-confidence motion is said to have sounded the poll bugle for 2019 in earnest. The Opposition is raring to band together to take on Modi.

What they must also focus on is choosing a face to whom theatrics and verbal pyrotechnics come as naturally as they do to the prime minister.
'I don't think that we are showing Hindu humanity and humaneness in the process of the National Register of Citizens,' says Aakar Patel, winner of the Prem Bhatia Award 2018 for Political Reporting.

IMAGE: People check their names on the final draft of Assam's National Register of Citizens at an NRC Seva Kendra in Nagaon, July 30, 2018. Photograph: PTI Photo

Over the decades I have travelled to many countries, perhaps 30 or 40 or so. In no other country I have seen the tradition of offering a guest or a stranger who has come uninvited to your house, a glass of water.

My mother did not specifically teach me to do it, but because she did it every time someone came home, I developed the habit.

In these days, most of us have more strangers knock on our doors than in the time of four decades ago. Courier delivery people and cable television repairers and such other people drop in almost every day.

They do not expect to be treated as guests at each house to go to, but because it is my habit I still ask them if they want to sit down have a glass of water.

When some years ago I read the Valmiki Ramayan (the version I read is an excellent translation by my friend Arshia Sattar and published by Penguin), I was surprised to see that this same tradition existed in the time of Shri Ram.

Every time he would go to a new place, whether some rishi's hut in the jungle or some poor person's place in a village, he would be offered a glass of water as part of a ceremony.

This is our Indian tradition and we should be proud of it, especially because as I have said, I do not think anyone else around the world seems to have it.

We are all familiar with the line Atithi Devo Bhava, which comes from one of the Upanishads. The exact line is Matru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava, Acharya Devo Bhava, Atithi Devo Bhav and we were taught this sentence in our school in Surat.

It means that the mother, father, teacher and guest must be respected like god. Those of us who think of ourselves as Hindus, must consider what the true meaning of being Hindu is in light of such instruction from our texts.

Have we seen any such respect or even sympathy, in this business of the disenfranchisement that is going on of people in Assam?

The allegation is that many of the 40 lakh people who have not been able to identify themselves as being Indian citizens from 1971 are actually Bangladeshis.

There has been some sympathy for those, like former president of India Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed's relatives, who have not been able to do this. But the assumption has been that these are genuine and deserving Indians who are being left out.

My concern is for all of them. Even if someone is the child or grandchild of a Bangladeshi or even a Bangladeshi migrant themselves, then so what?

My culture and my religion and my upbringing tells me that I must treat them, and especially those of them who are poor and weak, with humanity.

I do not think that we are showing this Hindu humanity and humaneness in the process of the National Register of Citizens, which to me seems inherently cruel.

What do we imagine that those who are born in Bangladesh or those whose parents were born there are doing in our country?

The knee-jerk reaction will be casual allegations like they are doing terrorism and they are infiltrating our society and taking advantage of the things that we have.

Such a similar allegation is also happening under American President Donald J Trump. He has said he does not want immigrants from 'shit-hole countries', but only from places like Norway.

Meaning he does not want people from Africa and India (even though many Indian immigrants apply for the highly valued H1B visa which adds to the America economy) but from white countries.

The main anger is directed towards the Mexicans who are thought to come because they want to 'mooch'. This is an American expression which means someone who lives off the benefits of the State, such as free housing and cheap public transport, and unemployment benefits but is generally lazy.

I know America well, and in my experience the Mexican immigrant is, along with the illegal Gujarati Patel immigrant, among the hardest working people in that country.

We know of Patel Motels but we should also know that most of these people migrated without proper visas and began their careers cleaning motel rooms, which requires hard physical labour.

Something similar is happening with Bangladeshis, or those people who may be Indian but are thought to be Bangladeshis. If one looks around at the service staff at restaurants and watchmen and other such people across all parts of India, many of them are from Bengal, whether east or west.

In Italy, there are many illegal Bangladeshi immigrants across the country, but they are without question enterprising and hardworking and have come there because they think it is a good and decent place to live in.

Why should we spit on such people who come to us because they actually like our nation more than theirs?

I need hardly tell the reader what you already know, that unlike America and Europe we do not have free or subsidised public housing, we do not get unemployment benefits and we do not have good public heath care.

India is a hard place to live in for someone who is poor.

We should keep this in mind when we debate what the next stage is in this journey towards declaring these people foreigners and figuring out what to do with them.

And we should, especially those of us in positions of power who take pride in our culture and tradition and religion, ask ourselves how we are to interpret Aithi Devo Bhava for such individuals.

Aakar Patel is Executive Director, Amnesty International India. The views expressed here are his own.
'The BJP wants to find an excuse to polarise people.'

'Whatever rights J&K has got from the Constitution of India, they want to snatch it.'

'By doing so, they are harming J&K as well as India.'

Photograph: Umar Ganie for Rediff.com IMAGE: Kashmiris protest against the petition to revoke the Constitutional validity of Article 35A of the Constitution.

A Delhi-based NGO, We The Citizens, and a few individuals recently filed pleas in the Supreme Court challenging the Constitutional validity of Article 35A of the Constitution, which gives special rights and privileges to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

At the same time, several interlocutory petitions have been filed in support of Article 35A by individuals and civil society groups seeking the continuance of the special status granted to the state.

Among the petitioners is Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, who represents the Communist Party of India-Marxist in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly.

"Already the relation between India and the J&K people has weakened, and by eroding Article 35A there will be more trouble," Tarigami tells Rediff.com's Syed Firdaus Ashraf, on Monday, August 6, soon after the apex court adjourned the hearing to August 27.

Why did you file an intervention petition on Article 35A?

My party's position is that we believe Article 35A is a part of Article 370 in the Constitution of India.

This came into effect after several negotiations between then Jammu and Kashmir prime minister Sheikh Abdullah and then prime minister of India Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru.

This was an agreement between the New Delhi government and the J&K government in 1952, after which Article 35A was brought under Article 370.

This is a Constitutional provision.

You cannot say that Article 35A can be repealed.

Already, Article 370 has been diluted to a great extent and there have been 43 amendments to that.

They (the central government) have already made Article 370 hollow.

It is for the same reason that uncertainty has risen in J&K and there is natural alienation.

The CPI-M believes that Article 370 is a part of the Constitution and the Supreme Court too has stated the same point earlier.

We are talking of 35A, not Article 370.

It is here that people are making a mistake.

Article 35A is part of Article 370 of the Constitution of India.

It is a provision of Article 370.

I have put in my intervention petition stating how this became a part of Article 370.

It is not in the interests of India as well as J&K (to repeal it).

Therefore, I want Article 35A to stand and the writ petition that has been filed (against Article 35A) must be dismissed.

This is the position of my party.

Many critics say Article 35A was a presidential order and it was not passed by Parliament.

The President of India has got the right under Article 370 to include any clause in it.

Now they are twisting this fact.

The 2019 elections are coming and they want to polarise the situation in the country.

We believe that this must not be made into a political issue.

Already the relationship between India and J&K people has weakened and by eroding Article 35A, there will be more trouble.

Charu Wali Khanna, who has filed the petition against Article 35A, said her children want to buy a house in J&K, but she cannot do so in spite of being a citizen of the state because Article 35A is discriminatory against the women of J&K.

There are many places in India, like the tribal areas of Telangana, Himachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Sikkim, where such a law exists.

Indians cannot buy land in Himachal and Sikkim, why target J&K only?

In spite of the majority of the population of J&K being Muslims, they became a part of India.

Their rights were then protected by the Constitution of India.

When Maharaja Hari Singh was ruling J&K in 1927, Dogras and Kashmiri Pandits, who were more educated, got these guarantees.

They ensured that no outsiders must come and buy land in J&K or get jobs.

Maharaja Hari Singh brought this Article 35A in 1927 and made it into a law.

No one objected then, so why are they objecting now?

Just think.

The answer is to polarise and divide the people in the name of religion.

Does it mean the people of J&K feared their identity being crushed even 90 years ago?

This concern is not of today, but from Maharaja Hari Singh's time.

We believe that our country is full of diversity, ethnic and cultural ethos.

Our Constitution has protected and safeguarded those interests, like it has done in Sikkim, Himachal and other places.

It seems that only the Kashmir Valley has a problem with repealing 35A. Don't the people of Jammu and Ladakh have problems over its repeal?

It is our bad luck that the predominant political trend in India is that of the BJP and they believe that Article 370 has to be repealed.

But the BJP will not be able to do anything about it.

The BJP wants to polarise Indian society over Article 35A and Article 370.

This is our concern, that they must not polarise the society.

It is not good for India as well as J&K.

Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of the Bharatiya Jan Sangh, the BJP's political parent, wanted to repeal Article 370.

The BJP has only three slogans now -- repeal Article 370, bring in a uniform civil code, and the Ram temple issue.

They agitated against Article 370 then too, but the constituent assembly of J&K ratified and included Article 370.

So why are you ignoring that?

If the Supreme Court rules in favour of repealing Article 35A, what will happen?

The Constituent Assembly of India gave us the Constitution.

It has the highest value.

They defined the Supreme Court's rights, and you cannot forget that.

It is the Republic of India which has given the rights to J& K.

If you don't value this, then what is left?

The Constitution of India says that the basic structure of the Constitution cannot be changed even if Parliament says so.

The basic structure of India is it is a secular country, and you cannot call it a Hindu Rashtra.

But the Constitution can be amended.

No, they cannot.

The BJP cannot change the basic structure of the Constitution of India.

They can in bring amendments, no doubt. But the basic structure of the Constitution, which includes Article 370, cannot be changed.

And this includes Article 35A as well?

It is a part of Article 370 which has been ratified by the J&K assembly.

Till date, the Government of India made 42 amendments to Article 370, why has it not reversed them?

What has changed so drastically in Article 370 between 1950 and now?

Things which were in the state's list have been changed (and brought under the Concurrent List).

Take the latest example of Goods and Service Tax, it is now applicable in J&K.

Why are the women of J&K not getting their rights?

We believe the women must get their rights.

It is in the hands of the J&K assembly, that they make the laws to strengthen women's rights.

I want to raise only one question: When Maharaja Hari Singh made this Article 35A rule, why was there no protests then?

In Telangana, too, the same rule applies.

So why not raise your voice against that?

I feel the BJP wants to find an excuse to polarise people.

Whatever rights J&K has got from the Constitution of India, they want to snatch it.

By doing so, they are harming J&K as well as India.

The BJP wants to polarise Hindu-Muslim voters on Article 35A.

They want to deprive the people of J&K of whatever little is left of the special rights safeguarded by the Constitution of India.
The election to the post is mostly decided by consensus, but opposition leaders complain that the Narendra Modi government was yet to reach out to them, reports Archis Mohan.

The stage is set for a rare contest to elect the deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. Given the numbers of the ruling alliance and the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, with neither side currently commanding a majority, the election is set to be a close one.

The Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance has picked Janata Dal-United MP Harivansh Narayan Singh as its candidate. Leaders of the Congress and other opposition parties held a meeting on Monday and agreed that they will be fielding a common candidate.

After consulting their respective party leaderships, Opposition Rajya Sabha leaders will meet again on Tuesday afternoon to decide on their candidate.

At the meeting, the Congress leadership conveyed to other parties that it would be willing to support a candidate from one of the regional parties.

An Opposition leader, who attended the meeting, termed it speculation that the Opposition parties were considering as its candidate Tiruchi Siva of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Nationalist Congress Partys Vandana Chavan and nominated member K T S Tulsi.

By announcing the name of JD-Us Harivansh, a first-time parliamentarian, the BJP has attempted to reach out to its allies who have been upset with the party for not accommodating their concerns.

The BJP-led NDA doesnt have a majority in the Rajya Sabha. To win, the BJP would need to convince fence-sitters like the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Telangana Rashtra Samiti, YSR Congress Party and Biju Janata Dal to vote in favour of its candidate. The Opposition ranks have been bolstered after the Telugu Desam Party parted ways with the BJP. It is also not known which way the Shiv Sena MPs might vote.

The election to the deputy chairman is mostly decided by consensus, but opposition leaders complained that the Narendra Modi government was yet to reach out to them. The post has been lying vacant for over a month after P J Kurien retired.

On Monday afternoon, Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu announced the schedule of election for the office of the deputy chairman. At the start of the ongoing monsoon session, Naidu had urged both the government and the Opposition to reach a consensus.

On Monday, Naidu spoke to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar, Leader of the House Arun Jaitley and Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad before announcing the election schedule.
IMAGE: Police personnel escort children out of a government-funded shelter home in Muzaffarpur after the scandal broke out. Photograph: PTI Photo

An anguished Supreme Court on Tuesday said that women and girls are getting raped left, right and centre across the country as it cited the National Crime Records Bureau data on four such incidents being reported per day, and stressed that action has to be taken stop such crimes.

The court directed that minor victims of such crimes should not be interviewed, except by the state child rights bodies, as it would have serious impact on their welfare and mental wellbeing, and also asked the print, electronic and social media not to publish or display photos of victims of sexual abuses, even in a blurred or morphed form, in any case across the country.

The apex court termed as horrific the case of alleged sexual abuse of girls in an NGO-run shelter home at Muzaffarpur in Bihar and pulled up the state government for funding such institution without verifying its credentials.

A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur asked the Ministry of Women and Child Development to apprise it about the proposed steps to be taken to prevent sexual abuse of minors in shelter homes across the country.

What is to be done? Girls and women are getting raped left, right and centre. As per the NCRB data, 38,947 cases of rape were reported in 2016 which mean everyday, four women are raped. These are reported statistics, the bench, also comprising justices Deepak Gupta and K M Joseph, said.

The bench said that the number of reported cases of rape in India was disconcerting.

The apex court, which has taken cognisance of the Bihar incident following a letter by a Patna-based man, said that minor victims of sexual abuse could only be interviewed by members of National Commission For Protection of Child Rights and State Commissions For Protection of Child Rights in presence of trained counsellors.

The bench said that its order would not preclude the investigating agency from conducting probe in this case but made it clear that they would be bound by the direction given by the apex court on August 2.

On August 2, the bench had said that investigation in the Muzaffarpur case be conducted with assistance of professional counsellors or qualified child psychologists appointed in consultation with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences Bangalore, Tata Institute of Social Sciences and AIIMS, Delhi.

During the hearing on Tuesday, the bench referred to reports about alleged sexual exploitation of girls at a shelter home in Deoria in Uttar Pradesh and girls being sold openly in Madhya Pradesh and observed that as per the NCRB statistics, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh were the top two states as far as cases of rapes were concerned.

This is a matter of great concern. Somebody has to take action to stop such crimes. Somebody has to do it. Every six hours, a women is raped in India, the bench said and posted the matter for hearing on August 14.

The top court also pulled up Bihar government for funding the NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur and asked why credentials of the organisation was not verified.

All this means is that people are paying taxes and peoples money are being used for such activities. Can you imagine this? the bench said, adding, Why the state allowed it to happen? It seems that money was given by the state to finance such activities.

Senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, appearing for Bihar, said that the state has taken necessary steps after the incident came to light.

The counsel representing TISS said that Muzaffarpurs incident was not the only one in Bihar as out of 110 such NGO-run institutions in the state, grave concerns have been raised about 15 institutions which were government funded.

Kumar said that out of these 15 institutions, FIRs have been lodged in nine matters, including the one in Muzaffarpur shelter home, and people have been arrested in connection with these cases.

The bench suggested that proper monitoring of NGO run shelter homes should be done on a day-to-day basis and CCTV cameras should be installed in such institutions to prevent repeat of Muzaffarpur like incident.

The court also said that technology should be used for monitoring of shelter homes and studies done by UNICEF on these issues should also be looked into by the states.

It (Muzaffarpur) is a horrific incident. We do not want such incidents to repeat in future, the bench said about the Muzaffarpur case in which over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the shelter home run by Brajesh Thakur, the chief of the state-funded NGO.

Advocate Aparna Bhat, assisting the court as an amicus curiae, told the bench that wife of one of the accused in the case has disclosed the names of some of the alleged victims on her Facebook post.

The bench, while saying that action should be taken against the woman for posting such things on Facebook, asked the Bihar government to take appropriate steps.

The bench also pulled up the Delhi Commission for Women for interfering in the case and said it has no business to intervene.

No politics should be involved in it, the bench said.

The Bihar government said that Muzaffarpur case has been transferred to the CBI and the Patna high court was monitoring the probe.

The bench made it clear that it was not concerned with the probe and monitoring aspect and its only concern was about protection of child, particularly girls, residing in shelter homes run by the NGOs.
IMAGE: UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Women and Child Welfare Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi addresses a press conference to recommend CBI probe into the Deoria shelter home case in Lucknow on Tuesday. Photograph: Nand Kumar/PTI Photo

The Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry into the Deoria shelter home case, involving possible sexual abuse of the inmates, hours after a girl missing from there was found at an old age home run by the same NGO in Gorakhpur.

Earlier, the UP Women and Child Welfare Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi admitted there had been laxity at the district level in not shutting down the Deoria shelter even after a closure order last year.

Five people who were involved in running the Gorakhpur shelter have been detained.

Police said the girl from the Deoria shelter should not have been at the Gorakhpur home, as it is meant for the elderly.

When the police raided the Deoria shelter on Sunday night, a rescued inmate had told them that some girls from there used to be taken to Gorakhpur, and then brought back the next day.

The CBI inquiry was announced by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who has also constituted a special investigation team to ensure there is no tampering of evidence till the central agency takes over.

Adityanath held the previous governments responsible for the manner in which the NGO was being run, but also said the role of the local police will probed.

"Seeing the sin and laxity of the previous governments, all those who were responsible, and in order to make things crystal clear we have decided that the entire incident will be handed over to the CBI," he told reporters.

He also mentioned the presence of boys at the Deoria shelter, saying they will be shifted to other child protection homes.

The Deoria case surfaced on Sunday night when one of the girls escaped from the shelter home and complained to the police.

The police said they rescued 24 girls from there and found that 18 others were missing.

One of the missing girl was recovered from the old age home in Gorakhpur this evening, police said.

DM Vijyendra Pandiyan said those detained in Gorakhpur include Ma Vindhyavasini NGO's arrested manager Girija Devi's widowed daughter Kanaklata, who stays there with her four-year-old daughter.

The five, including a clerk, a female cook and a housemaid, will be handed over to Deoria police, Pandiyan said.

Pandiyan said the presence of the girl from the Deoria home had not been recorded in the register when a team went there on Monday. But the name was there on Tuesday.

"The age of the girl is not confirmed as there is overwriting and she told us she came here on August 5 from the Deoria shelter home, he said.

Another official said the age had been entered as 21 in the register. Pandiyan said the girl was in a state of shock.

She is continuously changing her statement. As per the Deoria police record, the woman was missing from the Ma Vindhyavasini shelter home," the DM said.

Meanwhile, the superintendent of the Deoria shelter home Kanchanlata Tripathi, who was on the run, was arrested in Deoria, SP Rohan P Kanay said.

The CM said the NGO has been operating since 2009 and the previous government had liberally given grants to this organization.

He said the role of police will also be probed as a first information report was lodged on July 30 but no action was taken against the shelter.

An additional director of police has been directed to probe the role of police.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the Ministry of Women and Child Development to place before it the data of social audit and survey conducted at around 3,000 shelter homes across the country.

A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur, while hearing the case of alleged sexual abuse of girls in a NGO-run shelter home at Muzaffarpur in Bihar, was informed by the Centre that a survey was conducted in around 3,000 shelter homes about infrastructure, facilities provided as well as staffs there.
ATLANTA, Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GeoVax Labs, Inc. (OTCQB: GOVX), a biotechnology company developing human vaccines using its novel viral vector platform technology, announced its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2018, and provided an overview of recent accomplishments for its research and development programs.



Robert T. McNally Ph.D., GeoVax President and CEO, commented, We continue to push forward our vaccine development efforts on multiple fronts with several infectious disease targets as well as cancer. Our programs are facilitated through grants from government agencies such as the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and collaborations with academic and research institutions including the HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN), Emory University, University of Pittsburgh, Georgia State University, the Burnet Institute (Australia), the Institute for Human Virology at the University of Maryland, The Scripps Research Institute, and the University of Texas Medical Branch. Our corporate collaborators include American Gene Technologies International, Inc., CaroGen Corporation, Vaxeal Holding SA, and ViaMune, Inc.

Dr. McNally continued, A few of our highlights so far during 2018 include:

Lassa Fever Vaccine. NIAID awarded us a Fast-Track Phase I/II SBIR grant to advance our Lassa Fever vaccine. The $300,000 initial grant is for Phase I of the project, with an anticipated total project budget of up to $1.9 million. This grant is enabling preclinical testing of our vaccine candidates in preparation for human clinical trials. The work is being performed in collaboration with the Institute of Human Virology at the University of Maryland, The Scripps Research Institute, and the University of Texas Medical Branch.

Zika Vaccine. NIAID awarded us a $300,000 SBIR grant for the second year of the project to advance development of our Zika vaccine. This grant is supporting advanced preclinical testing in non-human primates in preparation for human clinical trials.

HIV Program. Our preventive HIV vaccine program continued with clinical trial support from NIAID and the next trial expected to commence later this year or in early 2019. Our collaboration with American Gene Technologies International, Inc. (AGT) for use of our vaccine in combination with AGTs gene therapy for development of a functional cure for HIV is on track to enter a Phase 1 trial sponsored by AGT. AGTs latest estimate is that the trial will begin during the first quarter of 2019.

Oncology Program. We began a collaboration with Vaxeal Holding SA, expanding our cancer vaccine program to include the design, construction, characterization and animal testing of vaccine candidates using our MVA-VLP vaccine platform with Vaxeals proprietary designed genetic sequences. This project is complementary to our ongoing collaboration with ViaMune, Inc. for co-developing cancer immunotherapies. In parallel, we are collaborating with the University of Pittsburgh and their Distinguished Professor, Dr. Olja Finn, using combined technologies for abnormal MUC1 secreting tumors.

Hepatitis B Program. We began a collaboration with CaroGen Corporation for the development of a combination immunotherapy treatment for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. This project includes testing our MVA-VLP-HBV vaccine candidate in combination with CaroGens HBV Virus-like Vesicles (VLVs) vaccine candidate in prophylactic and therapeutic animal models of HBV infection. Currently data is being compiled for GeoVaxs own HBV vaccine design being tested in animal models at Georgia State University.

HPV/HNC Program. We began a collaboration with Dr. Rafi Ahmed at the Emory University Vaccine Center for development of a therapeutic vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, with a specific focus on head and neck cancer (HNC).

Ebola Vaccine. We published excellent results from a rigorous preclinical study of our Ebola vaccine in the peer-reviewed open access journal Scientific Reports by Nature Research. In this study, we demonstrated 100% single-dose protection provided by our vaccine to rhesus macaques challenged with a lethal dose of Ebola virus. The article can be viewed at www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-19041-y.

Malaria Vaccine. We continued work on our malaria vaccine program in collaboration with the Burnet Institute in Australia with very encouraging preclinical proof of concept immunogenicity data.

Scientific Conferences. We continued to attend and present at various scientific conferences including the ChinaBio Partnering Forum at the 36th Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, WHO consultation for Ebola/Marburg viruses as part of the WHOs research and development (R&D) roadmaps process for priority diseases, American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Biothreats conference, the World Vaccine Congress, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research, the ASM Microbe conference, and the American Society for Virology Annual Meeting. These venues provide valuable networking opportunities to bring our technologies to the attention of the broader scientific community and to potential collaborators and partners. During the World Vaccine Congress, we were proud to have our work recognized by our peers through winning the Best Biotech Vaccine Industry Excellence (VIE) Award. We were also a finalist for the Best Prophylactic Vaccine VIE Award for our Zika vaccine. Furthermore, during the BIO International Convention, we were a finalist for the Pipelines of Promise award.

Dr. McNally concluded, In summary, I am pleased with the progress we are making, and our entire team is excited about the prospects for our technology pipeline. I look forward to sharing additional news with you in the coming months. I encourage our shareholders and other interested parties to visit our website (www.geovax.com) or follow us on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/geovax-inc-/) or Twitter (@Geovax_News) for periodic updates. You can also send a note to the Company at info@geovax.com to request to be added to our email distribution list for upcoming press releases.

Financial Review

GeoVax reported a net loss of $637,043 (less than $0.01 per share) for the three months ended June 30, 2018, compared to $516,881 ($0.01 per share) for the same period in 2017. For the six months ended June 30, 2018, the Companys net loss was $1,258,856 ($0.01 per share) as compared to $1,065,222 ($0.02 per share) in 2017.

The Company reported grant and collaboration revenues of $93,265 and $314,564 for the three-month and six-month periods of 2018, respectively, as compared to $352,137 and $647,872 reported for the comparable periods of 2017. As of June 30, 2018, there is $771,951 in approved grant funds remaining and available for use.

Research and development (R&D) expenses were $372,202 and $859,196 for the three-month and six- month periods of 2018, respectively, as compared to $518,098 and $1,069,893 for the comparable periods of 2017. R&D expenses include reimbursable costs funded by NIAID grants, so much of the variance between the periods relates to the timing of external expenditures associated with the grants.

General and administrative (G&A) expenses were $359,197 and $716,425 for the three-month and six-month periods of 2018, respectively, as compared to $352,191 and $644,858 for the comparable periods of 2017. The increase in G&A expense for the six-month period ended June 30, 2018, as compared to 2017, is mostly attributable to stock-based compensation expense associated with common stock issued for investment banking fees.

GeoVax reported cash balances of $190,969 at June 30, 2018, as compared to $312,727 at December 31, 2017. Summarized financial information is attached. Further information concerning the Companys financial position and results of operations are included in its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

About GeoVax

GeoVax Labs, Inc., is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing human vaccines against infectious diseases using its MVA-VLP vaccine platform. GeoVax was the winner of the 2018 Best Biotech Vaccine Industry Excellence Awards, a finalist for the 2018 Best Prophylactic Vaccine Award for its Zika vaccine at the World Vaccine Congress, as well as a finalist for Pipelines of Promise at Buzz of Bio 2018. The Companys development programs are focused on vaccines against HIV, Zika, hemorrhagic fever viruses (Ebola, Sudan, Marburg, Lassa) and malaria. GeoVax also is evaluating the use of its MVA-VLP platform in cancer immunotherapy, and for therapeutic use in chronic Hepatitis B infections. GeoVaxs vaccine platform supports in vivo production of non-infectious VLPs from the cells of the very person receiving the vaccine. The production of VLPs in the person being vaccinated mimics virus production in a natural infection, stimulating both the humoral and cellular arms of the immune system to recognize, prevent, and control the target infection. For more information, visit www.geovax.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this document are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from those included in these statements due to a variety of factors, including whether: GeoVax can develop and manufacture its vaccines with the desired characteristics in a timely manner, GeoVax's vaccines will be safe for human use, GeoVax's vaccines will effectively prevent targeted infections in humans, GeoVaxs vaccines will receive regulatory approvals necessary to be licensed and marketed, GeoVax raises required capital to complete vaccine development, there is development of competitive products that may be more effective or easier to use than GeoVax's products, GeoVax will be able to enter into favorable manufacturing and distribution agreements, and other factors, over which GeoVax has no control. GeoVax assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements and does not intend to do so. More information about these factors is contained in GeoVax's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including those set forth at "Risk Factors" in GeoVax's Form 10-K.

Contact:

Robert T. McNally, Ph.D.

GeoVax Labs, Inc.

investor@geovax.com

678-384-7220

FINANCIAL TABLES FOLLOW

GEOVAX LABS, INC. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations Information (amounts in thousands, except per share data) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2018 2017 2018 2017 Grant and collaboration revenue $ 93 $ 352 $ 315 $ 648 Operating expenses: Research and development 372 518 859 1,070 General and administrative 359 352 717 645 731 870 1,576 1,715 Loss from operations (638 ) (518 ) (1,261 ) (1,067 ) Other income (expense), net 1 1 2 2 Net loss $ (637 ) $ (517 ) $ (1,259 ) $ (1,065 ) Loss per common share $ (0.00 ) $ (0.01 ) $ (0.01 ) $ (0.02 )




The Congress has decided to field its nominee as a joint opposition candidate for the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman after the other parties that have joined hands against the Bharatiya Janata Party chose not to nominate their candidate.

With the deadline for filing nominations ending on Wednesday, the government on Tuesday reached out to the rival camp in a hope of building consensus on National Democratic Alliance nominee Harivansh Narayan Singh, who is from the Janata Dal-United.

At the same time, the Bharatiya Janata Party along with its allies was also trying to secure support of neutral parties like the Biju Janata Dal in the event of an election. JD-U president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar spoke to his Odisha counterpart Naveen Patnaik seeking the BJD's support for his party candidate.

Leaders of a number of opposition parties on Tuesday met twice after which they decided to put up a united fight for the post.

Various opposition parties were asked to discuss the issue with their leadership and propose a candidate suitable for the post.

However, the parties including the Nationalist Congress Party, the Samajwadi Party, the Trinamool Congress, the Bahujan Samaj Party and Left parties said they will not field any candidate and asked the Congress to put up its candidate.

"The Congress party will be putting up a candidate for the deputy charman's post," said a senior Congress leader after the meeting.

An opposition leader said though the name of NCP's Vandana Chavan was discussed, the NCP was not too keen on fielding its member.

As no other party wanted to field their candidate, the Congress was authorised to pick a candidate and all opposition parties decided to support the nominee, the leader said.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar told reporters today that Bharatyia Janata Party leaders, including he himself, have contacted the Congress and other opposition parties as they wanted a consensus to emerge on Harivansh' name.

In Bhubaneswar, BJD spokesman Sasmit Patra said Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik will take a decision on the BJD's stand on Wednesday after Nitish Kumar sought his party's support.

Wednesday is the last day for filing nomination for the post and BJP sources said they wanted cross-party support for the JD-U leader and therefore refrained from making any formal announcement about his candidature.

The Shiv Sena said on Tuesday that it will support the NDA's nominee.

BJP president Amit Shah called his Sena counterpart Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday and sought support, Sena's Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut said in Mumbai.

"Amit Shah called up Uddhav-ji today and sought Shiv Sena's support. We have decided to give our support to the JD-U because the post of deputy chairman is apolitical," he told PTI.

The Shiromani Akali Dal also said it would support any candidate put up by the NDA.

SAD chief Sukbhir Singh Badal said there is no question of abstaining or not supporting the NDA's official candidate for the post.

Badal said this after a meeting with Shah on Tuesday night at the latter's residence.

"The Akali Dal is standing rock solid with the BJP. It would support any candidate the NDA fields for the post," he said.

When asked if there was any move to abstain from voting, as reported by a section of the media, Badal said, "There is no question of abstaining."

The NDA nominee is likely to get support of 13 All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam members and six of Telangana Rashtra Samithi, but the decision of the BJD, which has nine members, will be significant.

If the BJD backs the NDA candidate, his prospects will brighten in case of an election but if it abstains from voting, then his fate will become more uncertain.

The sources say the TDP has agreed to support a Congress-picked candidate.

In Tuesday's meeting, the opposition parties also discussed the matter pertaining to Nitish Kumar calling up BJD chief seeking support for the NDA nominee, the sources said.

The current strength of the Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in the full House.

The BJP is the largest party in the House with 73 members. Its allies JD-U, Shiv Sena, Akali Dal have 6, 3, 3 MPs respectively.

The BJP is hoping to get support of four of the six Independent members and three of the four nominated members.

The Congress has 50 members.
Ailing Dravida Munnetra Kazagham president M Karunanidhi is extremely critical and unstable, a city hospital where he is being treated for the 11th day on Tuesday said.

IMAGE: Supporters gather near the Kauvery Hospital where DMK President M Karunanidhi in undergoing treatment, in Chennai. Photograph: PTI Photo

There has been significant decline in the clinical condition of Kalaignar M Karunanidhi over the last few hours. Despite maximum medical support, his vital organ functions continue to deteriorate.

His condition is extremely critical and unstable, Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravindan Selvaraj said in a bulletin.

IMAGE: The bulletin put out by the hospital. Photograph: ANI/Twitter

Karunanidhi was admitted to the hospital on July 28 following a dip in his blood pressure. He is in the ICU ever since.
One of the most charismatic figures of Tamil Nadu politics and the most enduring mascot of the Dravidian movement breathed his last at 6.10 pm.

IMAGE: Karunanidhi was admitted to hospital 11 days ago for drop in blood pressure. Photograph: Reuters

Dravida Munnetra Kazagham chief M Karunanidhi, one of the foremost Dravidian politicians in modern times, died in Chennai on Tuesday, after waging a grim battle for life aged 94, the hospital where he was admitted for the last 11 days said.

One of the most charismatic figures of Tamil Nadu politics whose public life spanned over seven decades, is survived by two wives and six children, including DMK working president and heir apparent M K Stalin and daughter Kanimozhi, a Rajya Sabha MP.

The most enduring mascot of the Dravidian movement breathed his last at 6.10 p.m.

With deep anguish we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 pm. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond.

We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family members and fellow Tamilians worldwide, a press release by Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Executive Director of Kauvery Hospital, said.

President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned his death.

A bulletin from the Kauvery Hospital had said on Monday evening the condition of the DMK patriarch had declined and keeping his vital organs functioning was proving a challenge, triggering concerns about his condition among his followers who began swarming the hospital soon after.

Hundreds of them kept vigil outside the hospital overnight, but when the facility came out with another bulletin at 4.30 pm on Tuesday, describing his condition as extremely critical and unstable, the milling crowd grew delirious and dramatic scenes began unfolding.

Some were seen fainting, while a few others beat their chests and faces in utter desperation.

Cries of Ezunthu Vaa Thalaiva (arise leader and come), rent the air as DMK supporters bearing the red-and-black party flags broke into feverish chants hailing the stalwart.

However, their prayers went unanswered, with the hospital announcing his death at 6.10 pm.

Sudden silence descended once the hospital issued the bulletin confirming Karunanidhis death.

IMAGE: The statement from Kauvery Hospital announcing the DMK chief's demise. Photograph: ANI/Twitter

Some in the crowd lit the cell phone torches as a mark of respect for the departed leader.

Shops and business establishments downed shutters as the news of Karunanidhis demise spread and streets got deserted quickly.

A general alert has been sounded across the state and security tightened at vital installations to tackle any law and order situation, officials said.

Karunanidhis death comes barely 20 months after that of J Jayalalithaa, his long-time political foe and another bright star that faded from Tamil Nadus political firmament

on December 5, 2016.

The sharp-tongued, quick witted Karunanidhi was a five-time chief minister, who wielded considerable influence beyond his own state, in the corridors of power in New Delhi, for a long time, sewing up alliances with both the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Hugely influenced by the rationalist and egalitarian ideology of E V Ramasamy Periyar and DMK founder and the states first chief minister C N Annadurai, Karunanidhi became one of the most enduring mascots of the Dravidian Movement, which aimed at seeking equal rights for the depressed sections and women, and was against Brahminism.

Karunanidhi became the chief minister for the first time in 1969 after the demise of Annadurai. He subsequently helmed the state as chief minister in 1971, 1989, 1996 and 2006.

He was elected to the Legislative Assembly 13 times, the last time as a 92-year-old in 2016.

Karunanidhi, who earned sobriquets of Thalaivar (The Leader) and Kalaignar (The Artist) from his ardent followers, became DMK president in 1969 and held the position till his death.
With opposition parties raising serious concern over the alleged sexual exploitation of girls at a children's shelter home in Uttar Pradesh, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday termed the incident shameful and declared that no culprit would escape action.

IMAGE: A view of a Uttar Pradesh shelter home in Deoria from where 24 girls were rescued after allegation of sexual exploitation of the inmates came to light. Photograph: PTI Photo

Singh also told the Lok Sabha that two senior officials of the state government were probing the matter.

Opposition members, including those from the Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Janata Dal, raised the issue and referred to a similar incident at Muzaffarpur in Bihar.

"No culprit will escape action", Singh said, adding that the state government has taken quick action in the case. He described such incidents as unfortunate, sad and shameful.

On the action taken, he said the district administrative officer has been suspended and the manager of the shelter home as well as her husband have been arrested.

Additional chief secretary and a director general level officer are probing the case, Singh said.

The home minister also said that he would ask the ministries concerned to send out advisories to states to ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future.

Soon after the home minister's response, members of the SP, RJD, Congress and TMC staged a walk out from the House.

Amid the protests and heated exchanges between the treasury and the opposition benches, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said everyone is concerned about these incidents which are not good. She urged everyone not to play politics with it.

She suggested that all members should also keep a tab in their constituencies so that such incidents do not happen.

Twenty-four girls were rescued from a shelter home in Deoria in Uttar Pradesh after allegation of sexual exploitation of the inmates came to light a few days ago. As many as 18 inmates are reportedly missing.

Raising serious concerns about the case, SP member Dharmendra Yadav said strict action should be taken against the culprits. Atrocities have been committed against the girls, Yadav said, adding that he does not want to play politics on the issue.

RJD member Jai Prakash Narayan Yadav also raised the issue.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge asked the speaker to set up a House Committee to probe the incidents which have happened in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Noting that it is a "serious issue", he also said the committee should visit all states and try to find out why such things are happening.

BJP member from Uttar Pradesh Kalraj Mishra said the licence of the children's shelter home was cancelled a year ago and then the matter went to court. The process of shifting the girls and the boys had started, he added.

Holding placards, Telugu Desam Party members also walked into the well seeking to raise issues related to Andhra Pradesh.

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi admitted laxity by Deoria administration in shutting down the shelter home from where 24 girls were rescued, saying the district officials were aware about the closure order but allowed the facility to operate for more than a year.

The admission of laxity by the state women and child welfare minister came a day after Union minister Maneka Gandhi said she feared that there could be more cases of sexual abuse of minor girls at shelter homes.

"In June last year, an order was issued for the closure of the shelter home and district magistrate was informed but it was not followed. At least 15 notices were given to the Deoria district magistrate for closure of the shelter home and shift inmates elsewhere. Five letter were sent from Directorate level... Certainly, there was laxity at local level," Joshi told reporters.

About the two-member team of Additional Chief Secretary Renuka Kumar and ADG Anju Gupta probing the matter, Joshi said, "The team has taken statements of inmates and checked records. The records and statements of the shelter home operators are contradictory."

"When order was issued for its closure (last year) there were 28 inmates there, now it had 23 including 20 girls and three boys. The records of the NGO says they had 42 inmates. The attempts are on to trace remaining ones. It will be done in next 24 to 48 hours," she added.

Deoria superintendent of police on Monday told media that 24 girls were rescued from the shelter home.

But the mystery remained about the rest of the girls mentioned in the shelter home register.

"We are doing unbiased probe in the matter and those found guilty will not be spared. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is monitoring the probe. I will be meeting him this evening and after the probe report action will be taken," Joshi said.

The minister also appeared to shift partial blame on the previous BSP government.

Joshi said the NGO which ran the shelter home -- Ma Vindhyavasini Women Training Evam Samaj Seva Sansthan -- was given government work in 2010, when the BSP was in power.

"It was made girl, child centre, child home, adoption centre and given more work between 2010-2014 during the previous SP and BSP governments."

She alleged the child working committee, entrusted with the task of inspecting such shelter homes were constituted during the S dispensation and "wrong persons" were made its members.

"We are going to initiate action against 70 members... Those involved in discrepancies are now doing agitation. Had we not been sensitive, we would not have lodged FIR and arrested the accused," she said.
The Congress chief hit out at the BJPs ideological mentor, the RSS, alleging that it was a male chauvinist organisation and did not have women in it, thus cannot do what the Congress can for women.

IMAGE: Rahul alleged that the RSS was a male chauvinist organisation and did not have women in it. Photograph: @INCIndia/Twitter

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue of women safety and questioned his silence on the alleged incidents of rape of girls in some shelter homes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

The Congress leader said what they did against women in the past four years had not happened in the country in the past 3,000 years.

He hit out at the Bharatiya Janata Partys ideological mentor, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, alleging that it was a male chauvinist organisation and did not have women in it, thus cannot do what the Congress can for women.

Gandhi also promised to extend his partys full support to the passage of the women reservation bill and said if the Modi government does not bring it, the Congress will do so soon after coming to power.

He also talked of empowering women within the Congress and bringing them forward in the organisation, for them to lead a state or the country one day. He promised to include more women in central units of the AICC, saying the country needs them.

IMAGE: Rahul addresses his supporters during Mahila Adhikar Sammelan. At the address, the Congress president promised to include more women in central units of the AICC, saying the country needs them. Photograph: Kamal Kishore/PTI Photo

Launching a fierce attack on the prime minister, he said various institutions were under attack by the BJP and the RSS, who have devastated the country, and that the Congress party will unitedly defeat them in the coming days.

Referring to the governments slogan of beti bachao, beti padhao, he said that it was actually for saving the daughters from BJP MLAs, an apparent reference to some BJP leaders accused in rape cases.

Institutions are under attack in the country, be it Parliament, vidhan sabhas and the judiciary. Minorities, Dalits, women, tribals, small businessmen are under attack. We will fight the BJP and defeat them in the coming days.

The Congress party and the opposition are working together to fight the ideology of the BJP. We are fighting an ideological battle, he said while addressing a Mahila Adhikaar Sammelan at Talkatora Stadium.

(He) had talked about changing India, had talked about 70 years... what they have done against women in the last four years, has not happened in the last 3,000 years in this country, leave alone 70 years, he said.

He questioned the silence of Modi on atrocities against women in the backdrop of rapes of girls in shelter homes in Muzaffarpur in Bihar and in Uttar Pradesh.

He said, The prime minister speaks on everything -- bullet train, toilets, but not women. Whenever there are atrocities on women, he does not speak up.

He also said that whenever he goes abroad and embraces leaders, he has no answer on why women are not safe in India.

Women are being raped in UP, Bihar and so many other states but the prime minister is quiet. Biggest difference between the BJP/RSS and the Congress is on the place of women.

IMAGE: Rahul Gandhi hugs senior Congress leader Mohsina Kidwai as former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit looks on during Mahila Adhikar Sammelan, in New Delhi. Photograph: Kamal Kishore/PTI Photo

Talking about the women reservation bill, which is pending for the last few years, the Congress chief said the BJP lacks commitment on the issue and cited the example of BJPs ideological mentor -- the RSS, which he said was a male chauvinist organisation.

Promising to bring women forward within the Congress and give them their rightful place, Gandhi while pointing to the slogan your fight is our fight put up at the conference, said you can add your right is Congress presidents fight.

He promised to bring women forward in framing the policy, manifesto and the organisation. He said his job as the Congress president is to ensure women have equal space in the organisation.

We are going to create space for you in the Congress party. We need to create special space for women in our party. We need to create a space at every level.

The RSS and the BJP will never be able to show the country a similar vision.

Their parent organisation, the RSS, in its history has never allowed a woman into its organisation. The RSS is purely a male organisation. There are other organisations in the BJP that have females in it, but RSS is a completely male chauvinist organisation that does not believe in giving space to women. So they simply cant do what we can do, he said.

He said if he faced with a choice between a man and a woman for selecting election candidate, he will choose whoever is more capable.

If both are equally capable, I will choose the woman as a candidate, Gandhi said.

My job as Congress president is to ensure, women have equal space in our organisation. Our aim is to have 50 per cent women in our party, he said.

Gandhi, along with Mahila Congress president Sushmita Dev, unveiled the flag and the symbol of Mahila Congress.

Gandhi also said that the media should no longer worry, while alleging that the BJP and RSS is frightening them.
Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin does not face any threat to his full-fledged succession as DMK chief, just now. If he were to face any threat, it would only be over his non-performance as the party boss, reports N Sathiya Moorthy.

The death of nonagenarian Muthuvel Karunanidhi has created a political vacuum in southern Tamil Nadu, yes, but for the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam that he headed for 50 long years, it may still be business as usual.

Even as rumours about Karunanidhis health and wellbeing were running thick and wide early on, his son and party working president M K Stalin discounted the reports and recalled instead how on July 27, 1969, the DMK had elected the former as party chief.

Likewise, even before Karunanidhis recent health reversal, the DMK had called for a party conclave for mid-August. According to reports, the idea was to elevate Stalin as full-fledged party chief, reserving for Karunanidhi as emeritus honour of some kind.

Clearly, the party wanted the full force of authority resting on Stalin, as the DMK began negotiating seat share with allies of the existing Congress kind, and prospective ones like the MDMK, for the Lok Sabha polls due by May 2019.

Born Dakshinamurthy, at 94, Karunanidhi was not the oldest of Dravidian political leaders. His right-hand man and DMK general secretary, K Anbazhagan, is one year older to him -- as the former CPM Chief Minister of neighbouring Kerala, V S Achuthanandan, too, is.

But Stalin, at 65, is still the oldest of heirs-apparent in Indian politics, he having been identified as a future successor to Karunanidhi, as far back as the mid-to-late 70s, and promoted as such, but in stages.

The credit should go to Stalin who, unlike other siblings and nephews, has held back patiently, and using all the time (made) available to him, to expand his base and acceptance levels, first among the cadres, and then among sections of the states non-committed voters, possibly in a more positive way than Karunanidhi, MGR and Jayalalithaa put together.

With elections 2019 now before the party, there was a more immediate need for the DMK to have a single-point leader-level contact, to avoid confusion, in alliance negotiations and seat allocation, among other issues.

The party could not afford rival claimants from within the first family especially, and those outside using familiar family routes for individual seats, considering that alliance talks will also require some give-and-take.

Almost since the turn of the century, Stalin, then as party treasurer, has been at the centre of the DMKs political and electoral decisions. With the passage of time, especially since Karunanidhis long hospitalisation for a spinal surgery ahead of elections 2009, Stalins role has only been increasing, but with the fear of a Karunanidhi veto hanging over his head, still.

It was thus that ahead of the 2011 assembly polls, a two-track approach to alliance talks with actor-politician Vijaykanths DMDK led the DMK nowhere, until the latter struck a deal with the Opposition AIADMK under Jayalalithaa.

Coming in the midst of the 2G scam and the rest, the ruling DMK lost power, and Stalin had to shoulder some of the blame, especially in terms of alliance negotiations and candidate selection for the party.

Insiders however claimed that multiple access to multiple hierarchies was the main cause in this limited context, though the 2G kind of scams, which the patriarch could not -- or, did not -- curb and control, were the real undoing.

If this is about competition that does not exist outside of the DMKs first family, what about those from inside? Sulking in sadness over his fathers death, Stalins brother and former Union Minister, M K Azhagiri, is no more a threat.

After blowing hot and cold with his older son, Karunanidhi himself ended up sacking Azhagiri from the party for a second time a few years ago -- but this time, not to revoke it, or not even wanting to hear him out, so to say.

This had happened when Karunanidhi was in his full senses, which means that Azhagiri could not take his complaints to any other leader or forum, then and more so, now.

Even when Azhagiris daredevil political and electoral antics were in full bloom, Stalin alone counted in the DMKs general council, the highest decision-making body.

Even at the height of his glory, Azhagiri at best had a handful of supporters in the 1000-plus grouping, where long years of service to the party mattered more to members than his easy accessibility and daredevilry against political rivals.

Better or worse still, all of Azhagiris popularity and daredevilry occurred when Karunanidhi was chief minister (2006-11). He overnight became silent and distanced once Jayalalithaa returned to power in elections 2011.

Against this, Stalin, who entered active politics as a student in the early 70s -- again when his father was chief minister  stood up against political and electoral adversaries, first during the Emergency, and then through the 13 long years of vanvas, including the unbroken 10-year chief ministerial stint of breakaway AIADMK rival, M G Ramachandran (1977-87).

Compared to Azhagiri, and earlier their cousin, the late Murasoli Maran to a greater or lesser extent, Stalin does not face any threat to his full-fledged succession, just now. If he were to face any threat, it would be only over his non-performance as the party boss without any excuses to extend as when Karunanidhi was around, or if he were to lose another round of big elections -- to the state assembly in 2011 and 2016, and to the Lok Sabha in 2014.

Early on, Azhagiri posed an open threat to Stalin within the party. That was not the case with Murasoli Maran, who was a loyal confidant of his maternal uncle, but had problems equating himself with cousins, Stalin, Azhagiri or both. Marans untimely death in 2003 cleared the decks.

Kanimozhi faced a problem of the kind vis-a-vis her half-brothers in turn, for a time, and was seen as trying to play one against the other. Father Karunanidhi made it easy for her by sacking Azhagiri. From then on, though only in stages, Stalin and Kanimozhi seem to be relatively comfortable with each other, with the latter becoming the eyes and ears for the former in distant Delhi, though in one slow step after the other.

The other insider threat for Stalin emanated from the Maran brothers, with nephew and former telecom minister Dayanidhi especially being seen as projecting himself as more important than he actually was, especially when Karunanidhi was up and about -- even when the latter was wheel-chair bound.

Yet, Stalin would need to guard against the more recent trend of an over-enthusiastic section within the party seeking to promote his actor-cum-aspiring-politician son, Udayanidhi Stalin, in DMK circles, at least in lower-level functions, outside of Chennai.

In a way, it was his inability to control such a trend that sullied Karunanidhis name and fame as a confident leader who ensured political stability in and for the DMK through five long decades and more.

There is the otherwise unmentioned apprehension in some DMK circles that a new, Stalin-centric kitchen cabinet might end up taking the place of the one that Karunanidhi presided over, comprising almost everyone of his children, barring the first-born, the forgotten yesteryear actor, Mu Ka Muthu.

Stalins dutiful wife Durga is seen accompanying him whenever he travels outside Chennai to attend to his personal needs. Possibly, she has taken the lead from her ailing mother-in-law Dayalu, who was known to be at Karunanidhis side as he grew old.

The same cannot always be said of their son-in-law Sabareesan, whose name has been occasionally popping up in intra-party conversations in the DMK, as the power behind Stalin, at times in positive references and at times, negatively, too.

N Sathiya Moorthy, veteran journalist and political analyst, in Director, Observer Research Foundation, Chennai Chapter.
A US Navy veteran was on Tuesday sentenced to three consecutive life sentences on federal hate crime charges for killing Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla and wounding two others at a suburban Kansas City bar last year.

Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed Kuchibhotla, and wounded two others -- Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot -- at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

Earlier this year, he pleaded guilty in federal court to hate crime and firearm offenses arising out of the shooting.

At his federal guilty-plea hearing, Purinton admitted in open court that he targeted and shot Kuchibhotla and Madasani because of their race, colour, and national origin, and that he shot Grillot during an attempt to flee the scene of the crime.

Purinton had also pleaded guilty in state court to charges of murder and attempted murder, and has been sentenced to a term of life imprisonment in state prison.

The sentences handed down in federal court on Tuesday will run consecutively to another life sentence 53-year-old Purinton previously received for first-degree murder in Johnson County District Court.

'The crimes at issue in this case are detestable,' Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement.

'The defendant acted with clear premeditation in murdering one man, and attempting to murder a second man, simply because of their race, religion, and national origin. As a result, a promising young life has been tragically cut short, and other lives have been filled with suffering.'

Sessions said that while the 'irreparable harm' that Purinton has done cannot be undone, 'some measure of justice for the victims' families has been achieved'.

In a statement, Kuchibhotla's widow said that her husband was always 'respectful to others' and would have helped Purinton understand that not every brown skinned person is evil but is contributing to America's growth.

'My husband was more than what you chose to address him as. Always kind, caring, and respectful to others. Srinu and I came to the US of America full of dreams and aspirations...Now, my American Dream -- and that of Srinu's -- is broken,' Sunayana Dumala said in the statement read out in court on Tuesday as Purinton was sentenced, calling her husband by his informal name.

'...(U)se the time that is being given to you to educate yourself and inform others who are still out in the open and stop them from killing innocent people as you did -- choosing violence over kindness," she added.

US Attorney Stephen McAllister for the District of Kansas said a person should be able to live without fear of becoming a victim of hate crimes irrespective of 'who you are, what you believe, or how you worship'.

The killing of Kuchibhotla had shaken the Indian community and led to heightened fear and anxiety among the South Asian population in general and the Indian community in particular, about their safety.

Concerns grew in the community about misplaced perceptions among individuals over immigration status and ethnicity of Indians and South Asians in America.

According to evidence presented in court, a few weeks before the shooting, Purinton was sitting by himself in the bar area at Austins Bar & Grill when, coincidentally, Kuchibhotla and

Madasani happened to be having a drink on the patio. Noticing the two men, Purinton commented to a regular sitting at the bar, "Did you see the terrorists on the patio?"

On February 22, 2017, Purinton drove to Austins Bar & Grill and sat by himself at a table on the enclosed front patio. Sitting at the table to his left were Ian Grillot and several other patrons as well as Kuchibhotla and Madasani.

He approached Kuchibhotla and Madasani, and demanded to know where they were from and how they entered the country.

Purinton poked Kuchibhotla in the chest, called him a 'terrorist' and an epithet disparaging persons of Middle Eastern descent, and shouted, 'Get out of my country!'

Grillot and another patron interceded, told Purinton that he needed to leave, and escorted him out of the bar.

Purinton drove home and retrieved a semi-automatic pistol and to disguise his identity, changed into a different shirt and grabbed a blue-and-white scarf.

Later, he returned to the bar. He walked over to the enclosed front patio, opened the door, aimed his semi-automatic pistol at Kuchibhotla and Madasani, and fired eight rounds -- at least four of which struck Kuchibhotla, who died from his injuries, and one of which struck Madasani, who was injured, but survived.

Hours after the shooting, Purinton stated over the phone to a friend, and later in person to a bartender, that he had just killed some Iranians.

Purinton admitted that he shot Kuchibhotla and Madasani, attempting to kill both men, because of their race, colour, religion, and national origin.

After shooting Kuchibhotla and Madasani, Purinton ran out, and Grillot chased after him. As Grillot caught up to him, Purinton turned around and shot Grillot, who was also injured but survived.
As proof of the potential outcome, AIADMK sources pointed to the election of TDP's C M Ramesh to the prestigious PAC, which was enabled by the Opposition voting for him.

The Rajya Sabha deputy chairman's election on August 9 could be closer than what the Bharatiya Janata Party leadership anticipates, for the simple reason that the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, which packs 13 MPs in the Upper House, may vote against the ruling party's candidate.

The AIADMK, which has been favourably inclined towards the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had a change of heart after what it calls the "ill-treatment" of Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently.

On July 24, OPS, along with AIADMK leader Dr V Maitreyan, went to meet Sitharaman at her South Block office.

They waited in vain, as Sitharaman did not meet OPS.

On landing at Chennai airport that evening, OPS quoted CN Annadurai to the waiting media-men, "Edhaiyum thaangum idhayam vendum (you need a brave heart to bear everything)."

But clearly, the insult rankles for the AIADMK, which had voted for the National Democratic Alliance government in the no-confidence motion only days ago.

"Tamil pride was affected," says Dr Maitreyan, adding that the AIADMK's 13 votes will go to the Congress nominee unless BJP president Amit Shah speaks to OPS and apologises for the snub.

So, as things stand, unless a whip is issued, all the 13 MPs will vote against the ruling party nominee.

As proof of the potential outcome, AIADMK sources pointed to the election of Telugu Desam Party's C M Ramesh to the prestigious Public Accounts Committee on Monday, which was enabled by the Opposition voting for him.

Be sure, says Dr Maitreyan, the AIADMK will make it a point to defeat the BJP nominee.
Flaying those who shaved off the beard of a young Muslim man, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday said 'those indulging in such tyranny and injustice' will be brought into the fold of Islam and made to keep a beard.

His comments drew a sharp reaction Bharatiya Janata Party MLA from Telangana T Raja Singh Lodh, who said that any Muslim sporting a beard would be viewed with suspicion as long as 'Jihadi' Muslims are not boycotted.

Owaisi made the remarks at a public meeting in Hyderabad, where he referred to the reported incident of a Muslim man's beard being shaved off at Gurugram and urged youth from the community not to fear such incidents.

"If someone is fearing that our Muslim brother's beard was shaved off... No need to worry. I am telling you, who shaved off the beard, I am telling your father... that you cut, not beard, but throat, we will remain Muslim... It is our constitutional right," he said.

"Those indulging in tyranny and injustice, we will not stop keeping a beard even if it is shaved off. We will keep even a long beard. We will keep such a long beard that with our truthfulness, we will bring you into Islam (daman e Islam). We will bring you and make you keep beard.

Lodh, representing Goshamahal constituency in Hyderabad, posted his reaction in a video message on a social networking site, saying there is an atmosphere of fear in the country and anyone with a long beard is viewed with suspicion.

"See what is happening in Kashmir, which is part of India and those sporting beard there... they throw grenades and fire bullets on the army and explode bombs among common people, killing them. Maybe this led to fear atmosphere and some people, due to suspicion, may have cut off the beard.

He however said the act was wrong and government would initiate action.

"People like Owaisi are responsible for creating such a situation. People are viewing even real Muslims with suspicion," he said.

On Owaisi's reported statement that those indulging in such tyranny would be brought into the fold of Islam, he said "I would like to tell him you will not able to convert Hindus into Islam".

Lodha took potshots at Owaisi and his brother for calling themselves Muslim sevaks and alleged that the duo and their party MLAs had grabbed thousands of acres of Wakf board land in Telangana and sold it.

Earlier Owaisi alleged that attacks on Muslim minorities had increased after the National Democratic Alliance government came to power.

He said though the prime minister was talking about 'sab ka saath, sab ka vikas', Muslims in India were being killed in the name of the cow.

He referred to the lynching of Rakbar Khan at Alwar in Rajasthan by cow vigilantes and said that after he was killed, a BJP MLA had branded him as a cow smuggler and said this was what was going to happen.

"It means death is justified.... what the Prime Minister of India says... 'sab ka saath, sab ka vikas'.

"Prime Minister, we are killed in the name of the cow. Since you became Prime Minister, India's Muslims are being killed in the name of the cow."

"Those who are attacking us in the name of cow, you are not killing us, but you are weakening India," he said.

Owaisi said the Right to Life is a right given in the Constitution.

He said Indian Muslims should learn a lesson from the Jats in Haryana, Marathas, Patels and Gujjars in Rajasthan and Dalits (for the government planning to make a law on the issue of prevention of atrocities against SCs and STs act) and get united to force the government accept their concerns.

On criticism against him as 'neo-Jinnah', Owaisi recalled that he was appreciated by many for taking on some Pakistan representatives when they criticised India during a debate on a visit to the neighbouring country.

"I say, how long you will judge us on the measure of Pakistan?" he asked.

Flaying BJP president Amit Shah for his comments on the National Register of Citizens issue, Owaisi demanded to know how he could say that the 40 lakh people left out in the list in Assam are infiltrators.

"If infiltrators, get it done in Tripura also. See how many come out.Get it done in Jammu. Heard that Tripura's chief minister was born in (19) 71. Get NRC done," Owaisi said.
In Muthuvel Karunanidhi's passing, Tamil Nadu has lost the last of its Titans.

Yet, he leaves behind a party that son Stalin can lead with greater comfort, and a state which cannot ignore his real contributions to the socio-economic uplift -- be it urban housing, slum clearance, upgraded and nationalised end-to-end affordable road transport, concretised rural roads -- across the board, says N Sathiya Moorthy.

Edhaiyum thaangum idhayam vendum endraai,

Idhanai thaanga aedhu Anna emakku idhayam...

Quoting mentor, party founder and then chief minister, C N Annadurai, then deputy and Tamil Nadu minister, Muthuvel Karunanidhi, penned a long poem in Tamil, when the former succumbed to cancer in February 1969, two years after he had led the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam to electoral power in the state, then going by the British given name of Madras.

Quoting Annadurai (or Anna, elder brother) who wished all his thambis (or younger brothers) a brave heart, Karunanidhi wrote in his poem: We, however, do not have a brave heart to bear this', the loss of Annadurai. Chosen by Karunanidhi, the epitaph on Annadurais samadhi in Chennais famed Marina sands reads thus: Edhaiyum thaangum idhayam ingeye urangugiradhu (the brave heart is resting here).

Many feathers adorned the hat of Muthuvel Karunanidhi (1924-2018) through his long and illustrious film and political career. But nothing could match his never-say-die braveheart, which would not give up even as Death kept knocking at his door for months now, and politico-electoral battles tossed him up and down like a boat caught in a stormy sea.

Decades of later-day politics tended to cloud his cinematic achievements, but even leaving out his last two years, when he was Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam president only in name, Karunanidhi was also the longest serving 'elected chief' of any recognised political outfit with substantial voter and cadre following, across the democratic world.

From 1969 on, when Annadurai died in office and party general secretary Karunanidhi stepped into his shoe(s).

If friend-turned-political adversary the charismatic actor M G Ramachandran (MGR), or a one-time loyalist Vaiko, had to lead a party, they had to found one of their own -- the more successful All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam in the case of the former, and less-than-successful Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam in the case of the latter.

But MuKa, or Kalaignar, and Thalaivar or leader to his cadres, as he grew in stature inside the party and in their estimation, he would take all political adversaries seriously, and fight it out in his own, inimitable way. Win, he may some, lose he may even more, but this man was not one to give up a fight.

When Annadurai addressed the party second-line leaders and cadres alike as thambis, he had imagined the DMK as an HUF, or Hindu undivided family of sorts, though the term should have been an anomaly in context of the anti-god, anti-Brahmin, rationalist school of Periyar E V Ramaswami Naicker, where they all schooled together before walking out on the mentor.

In real terms, the DMK 'family' thus became a weakness for Karunanidhi, when in office or otherwise. But in personal life and politics, his own family became a weakness not only for him as the party boss, but also for the party because he was the unassailable, unchallenged boss, always and all through, till Death finally overtook him.

If in more recent years, the DMK lost power even when the Karunanidhi government(s) of the time was seen as 'performance-driven', it owed to his inducting family members, one after the other, beyond politician-son M K Stalin who had joined the party in the early '70s and had stayed in the frontline, facing adversities of every kind.

It had all begun with Chief Minister Karunanidhi using rules in the book and outside, at times, to promote his first-born, Mu Ka Muthu, as a film-star, apprehending that supporter and popular party treasurer M G Ramachandran could throw up a challenge to his leadership any time soon.

The actor-son and the accompanying Karunanidhi attempt both bombed, and it only sped up MGRs determination to split with Karunanidhi and float the All-India Anna DMK in 1972.

The rest, including MGR's star going on the ascendant, leading up to the 1977 assembly polls and staying on as chief minister till his death in 1987 -- with his place in politics, though not always in power, taken by his political heir Jayalalithaa Jayaram, are all part of Tamil Nadus contemporary history.

Included in that contemporary Dravidian/Tamil Nadu political history is also the fact, how then Prime Minister Indira Gandhis purported reasoning that any split in the stronger DMK ally would only help her re-united Congress party to stage a come-back, if only she could persuade mentor-turned-rival K Kamaraj to join in her efforts.

Politics and people have different ways to behave than planned and predicted. Just as Karunanidhi failed in the case of MGR completely, Indira Gandhis hopes that a split in the DMK would help a re-united Congress, too, bombed.

Now, in the post-Jaya, post-Karunanidhi era, there are lessons in this for other national parties, who may -- or, may not -- have schemes and ideas of their own, concluding (and hastily so) that in the absence of iconic leaders of the MGR, Jaya and Karunanidhi kind, they could make fresh forays in the coming months and years.

That way, the three were creatures of socio-political circumstances of their time, not necessarily filmi background which alone gets focussed outside the state, and or even among Tamil Nadus middle class elite, with no clue of the events and environment around them.

Entering politics in his early teens, as a platform speaker for Periyars Dravidar Kazhagam, the ideological forebear of the Dravidian political movement that had however commenced earlier with the advent of the Justice Party and government in the 1920 elections to the Madras Presidency in what was then British India, Karunanidhis socio-political journey was as challenging as it was fascinating.

Just as Periyar would adapt many of Gandhijis nationalist political methods and approaches to suit local Dravidian socio-economic conditions, his younger followers, starting with Annadurai, would also take serious note of the way then Congress leaders in the Tamil-speaking areas of Madras Presidency taking to the theatre and more nascent talkie-cinema, to promote their ideology.

The talkie in particular was the right thing at the right time for the Dravidian GenX of the time. Though before Annadurai and A V P Asaithambi, the likes of Elangovan had taken to the song-and-dance historical and mythological Tamil cinema, to address social issues that were becoming increasingly popular, it was the Karunanidhi-Sivaji Ganesan combination, starting with Parasakthi (1952) that made a big difference and had a bigger impact.

Before Parasakthi, Karunanidhi had written the story, script and dialogues for a few films, including later day bete noire MGRs Rajakumari (1947), Abhimanyu (1948), Marudhanaattu Ilavarasi and Manthirikumari (both 1950).

But it was the Karunanidhi-Sivaji Ganesan combination, the latter delivering the formers long and tongue-twisting dialogues, often without re-takes in an era without post-production dubbing facilities and the tribe called dubbing artistes, which completely drew away Tamil cinema -- and also politics -- away from the past.

The two protagonists of the new Tamil film movement, if it could be called so, never looked back after Parasakthi. However, in the case of Sivaji Ganesan (1928-2001), his later-day entry into direct politics only bombed, again and again.

It was Karunanidhis over-confidence and undue estimation of his reach and capabilities -- often oiled by those around him and the Tamil media of the time -- that may have caused his fading away from the celluloid world altogether.

In his later days as chief minister, Karunanidhi would mix politics and filmdom, often at the instance of father-less grand nephews Dayanidhi and Kalanidhi Marans, sons of his politician-nephew, Murasoli Maran, and also brought in his filmi downfall by not being able to adapt himself to changing viewer tastes of the 21st century.

That his script-writing skills went down pipe after he had honed them to attract the new-generation viewers of the 80s with the hugely successful Paalaivana Rojakkal (1985) is what was saddening about the man.

Yet, despite most of the subsequent 14 films, including the last one, Ponnar Sankar (2011) bombing without trace, Karunanidhi, the script-writer with a social conscience, did recover much of the lost glory with the ongoing tele-serial Ramanujar on the life and times of the 12th century social-reformer and religious preacher, the preceptor of Visishtadwaita philosophy.

In a way, the tele-serial was Karunanidhis way of acknowledging the need for the new-generation DMK to move away from his ardent and adamant rationalist policies, including Periyars selective hatred for Hindu religion, gods and practices.

His choice of the subject, of a Vaishnavite acharya who boldly took to converting Harijans to Brahminism, might have been the ideological base for Karunanidhi choosing Sri Ramanujacharya as the subject for his tele-serial, but it did serve his political purposes at least partially.

The Brahmin community, which had huge reservations about Karunanidhi owing to what they considered his bias against the religion and caste, were beginning to take a re-look, though not wholly convinced until he exited the scene.

It was also the problem that Karunanidhi suffered from.

Ahead of the 1996 elections, which he won after the DMK's defeat five years earlier in the aftermath of the Rajiv Gandhi assassination, Karunanidhi began wearing a yellow shawl.

It was reportedly based on astrological advice, but he would discount it. Yet, he would not remove it almost till the end, other than replacing it with a black shawl, but only for a day -- no explanations sought or really given.

While MGR, who also grew up in the same Dravidian rationalist political milieu, had no problem acknowledging his own religion and personal preferences about gods and temples (Sri Mookambikai Temple, Karnataka) and Jayalalithaa did not care to even hide her interest in astrology-dictated pujas and parikarams, Karunanidhi could only remain a closet believer till the end.

An inherent sense of insecurity has been the bane of most politicians. In the Tamil Nadu context, MGR and Jaya displayed it by shifting and changing their second line all the time, keeping them at a distance and on tenterhooks all the time. Karunanidhi may have gone one step further, especially after his experiences with MGR (1972) and Vaiko, 20 years later in 1993, to keep family insiders in positions of power.

Mu Ka Muthu was a non-starter, and would later blame it all on Karunanidhi, to the extent that Jaya as chief minister would hand him over a cheque for Rs 500,000 in fixed deposit, for his upkeep from her AIADMK party found. They did make up in later years, though the father and son did not meet as often as the rest of Karunanidhis children by his two living wives.

Of the rest, Stalin had been in DMK from his student days, and had been imprisoned and injured during the Emergency -- just as cousin Maran, senior party second-liners like Arcot N Veerasamy, from whom he would take over as DMK treasurer decades later.

Elder son M K Azhagiri, who in later years would not face a question in Parliament as the all-important chemicals and fertilisers minister in the UPA-I Cabinet, and step sister, Kanimozhi, who went on to become a DMK member of the Rajya Sabha, and grand nephew Dayanidhi Maran, were as unacceptable to many party cadres as to the larger section of voters even more.

While Kanimozhi did become partly acceptable when she seemingly conceded Stalins seniority and also ready acceptance across the party hierarchy in their fathers place, Azhagiri continues to remain sacked from the DMK, as dictated by Karunnidhi when he was known to be in full control of his faculties, years ago.

The rise and fall of Kanimozhi and Dayanidhi were of Karunanidhis own making, but in the process the rest of them all took the party too with them, in successive elections.

Its not as if Karunanidhi himself had not faced corruption charges and more while in power. But he went to prison, and for relative short terms, early on in his political career, but for political offences.

The Sarkaria Commission appointed by Indira Gandhis Emergency regime, after dismissing the duly-elected Karunanidhi government at the instance of MGRs memorandum, listed out a series of corruption charges, as proven -- but neither was he tried, nor sent to prison, as Jaya would suffer in later years.

Possibly after Prakash Singh Badal in Punjab and Om Prakash Chautala in Haryana, Karunanidhi was/is the only chief minister in the state whose government was dismissed twice.

In his case, the first dismissal came in the midst of Emergency, and there were as many sympathisers on his side in the state as there were critics, who backed political rival MGR and his AIADMK.

The second dismissal came about in January 1991, owing to the anti-national activities as then Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar would tell Parliament later.

The post-facto justification, if at all came months later in the form of the LTTEs assassination of Rajiv Gandhi in the midst of election 1991, which also saw the DMK hit the nadir.

To Karunanidhis tested leadership, and Stalins untiring field work -- as during the long vanvas when MGR was in power -- did the DMK owe its re-birth, and not without sufficient support from Jayalalithaa, who was the chief minister at the time.

It was also a weakness that Karunanidhi would display for long, both in power and outside. To be accepted as the sole leader of world Tamils most of whom were Sri Lankans and with a greater affinity to the LTTE and Velupillai Prabhakaran, its supremo.

In balancing both, Karunanidhi would lose both -- the leader of Tamils title, which became Prabhakarans in time, and passed on to Jayalalithaa, of all persons, after the latters demise.

It was an irony that Karunanidhi would live with till his death, even as the increasingly peripheral pan-Tamil groups, especially in Tamil Nadu, got even more marginalised but would end up branding MuKa as a Thamizh dhrogi (betrayer of Tamil cause) in the context of the DMK continuing in power under UPA-II at the height of Sri Lankas conclusive Eelam War IV and also sticking on to his chief ministers post.

In contrast, Jaya had the guts to shoo away the pan-Tamil groups when she wanted, and gallantly accepted the Tamil leader position, without fighting or working for it beforehand.

It would be only after returning to power in 2011 that she would sound the Tamil bugle more frequently and more loudly than even in her first Independence Day speech as chief minister in 1991, that one referring to the Katchchativu issue relating to Sri Lanka.

Twice bitten by the imposition of Presidents rule, and branded as anti-national and/or corrupt, Karunanidhi was thrice shy. It suited his adversaries better.

It also meant that studying his long political history and personal predilection, they could position him and plan their next move -- and invariably, he would fall for it.

In his place, Jayalalithaa, having presented herself first as a woman-victim in the midst of male adversaries, took to fighting the Centre, all in the name of the Tamil and Tamil Nadu cause.

It was thus that on Sri Lanka and the fishers issue, Cauvery waters and whatever else, Jaya began indicating a Tamil angle to it, and would blame it all on the Karunanidhi regime of the time.

In a generation where social media sans serious research became the sole reference point for setting the political mood, Karunanidhi was often the loser, as against the international pan-Tamil community, which was more active against him than even they might have been in fighting for their own cause, especially in and on Sri Lanka.

In all this, Karunanidhis early contributions as a litterateur (though praised as more than what actually was, by his acolytes) and his penchant for political repartee and pun-intended use of spoken Tamil became the greater losers.

In his parting, Karunanidhi may have achieved one thing -- of restoring the DMK to its political and electoral relevance, unlike as was threatened in the years after the Rajiv Gandhi assassination, and after the Coimbatore serial blasts, when he was still chief minister.

Karunanidhi could also take credit for meeting most socio-economic goals of the Dravidian movement, long after the Justice Party parent had given way to the more vibrant Congress rival at the height of the freedom movement -- much of it during his first two terms in office (1969-76).

Yet, he would not -- rather, he could not -- accept the reality of the success. Instead, the failure to guide the DMK to rediscover itself to the changing times and needs also contributed to the imminent appearance of MGR as a political alternate first -- and Jaya, years later.

With MGR gone as a worthy political rival, Karunanidhi could find competitive solace in the emergence of Jaya. Her exit might have left a vacuum in his own political thoughts and processes, just as the rest of the state, starting with her AIADMK, have felt.

Like Jaya, Karunanidhi has left a void in the DMK -- he would not let son Stalin take over in good time, even while he himself was tied to a wheel-chair for 10 years.

Yet, he has left behind a party that Stalin can lead with greater comfort, and a state which cannot ignore his real contributions to the socio-economic uplift across the board -- urban housing, slum clearance, upgraded and nationalised end-to-end affordable road transport, concretised rural roads -- on which his successors, MGR and Jaya, would build upon, with he himself steeping in alternatively, to add more.

It was thus that Karunanidhi improved upon MGRs nutritious meal scheme, whenever he returned to power, unlike others where Dravidian competitiveness would kill each others initiative while in office.

This he extended to take over from Jayas pro-reform, FDI drive of the early 90s, starting with the automobile sector, extending greater facilitation to the IT/ITE industry, which too created jobs and generated incomes, for the individual as also the government.

It was such revenues that were calculated to fund the various subsidy schemes that he had introduced, such as free cooking gas and television, with the 21st century rural and urban housewives in mind, and free laptops for children.

Many of them would be studied and adapted by other governments, though the national media only remembers Amma idli and other freebies offered by Jaya and MGR.

Rather, more often than not they only had criticism for Karunanidhi, for re-introducing liquor to a new generation after the pre-Independence Rajaji government had imposed prohibition in the then Madras Presidency, which was followed up by the post-Independence Congress governments with equal vigour.

Unjust and unkind, as life always is!

Photographs: Courtesy, Kalaignar89 on Twitter.

N Sathiya Moorthy, veteran journalist and political analyst, is director, Observer Research Foundation, Chennai Chapter.
TORONTO, Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Unigold Inc. (Unigold or the Company) (TSX-V:UGD) is pleased to provide the following update regarding its plans to resume exploration on the Companys 100% owned Neita Fase II Exploration Concession located in the Dominican Republic.



The Ministry of Energy and Mines approved the Companys application to explore the 21,031 hectare concession in May 2018. The Company is currently awaiting approval of the Environmental License for the granted Exploration Concession. This application is currently awaiting final approval by the Minister of the Environment. Approval is expected in the third quarter of 2018. On approval, the Company will resume active exploration of the Candelones Project, and plans to focus on increasing the current mineral resource estimate.

The Company plans to:

evaluate the near surface oxide mineralization at the Candelones Main and Connector Zones; and

complete a follow up Induced Polarization (IP) survey targeting the high grade, gold-copper massive sulphide mineralization discovered at the Candelones Extension deposit in 2016.

Joseph Del Campo, Interim President and CEO of Unigold commented, We are eager to resume exploration on the Neita Concession, especially at the Candelones Project where we believe there is an excellent opportunity to increase both the near surface oxide resource as well as the deep, high grade sulphide resource. Petrographic work on samples collected in 2016 concluded that the massive sulphide mineralization intersected by our 2016 drilling has an epigenetic origin. Recent analysis by our Senior Geophysical Consultant of the IP survey completed in 2011, combined with physical properties testing on drill core, suggest that additional ground IP surveys could assist in identifying the continuation of the massive sulphide mineralization and assist in drill targeting. The oxide mineralization at the Candelones Main and Connector deposits is a compelling exploration target given that metallurgical work in 2007 indicated robust gold recoveries. Review of the historical drilling suggests that the oxide mineralization extends from surface to a depth of 10-15 metres. We believe the oxide resource represents an opportunity for a small, efficient and profitable starter pit that would establish early initial cash flow allowing for the development of the higher grade, sub-surface sulphide resource at the Candelones Extension.

The current mineral resource estimates for the Candelones Project, comprised of the Candelones Main, Candelones Connector and Candelones Extension deposits (Ref. Figure 1.0). are summarized in Table 1.0.

Figure 1.0  Candelones Project Drill Plan over Gradient Induced Polarization Chargeability.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9338381d-153c-4028-ab9d-5a2586e98398





Table 1.0  Summary of Historical Mineral Resource Estimates  Candelones Project

Date Classification Source / Deposit Tonnes Au Au ozs Strip Press Release # Mineralization (x1,000) (g/t) (x1,000) Ratio Type 11/12/2013 (1,3,4,5) INFERRED Open Pit Main 2,448 0.92 72 1.3 UGD-2013-22 OXIDE Connector 1,108 1.12 40 1.3 Extension - 0.00 - 0.0 Subtotal 3,556 0.98 112 1.3 INFERRED Open Pit Main 5,003 1.16 186 1.3 SULPHIDE Connector 980 1.08 34 1.3 Extension 24,223 1.59 1,241 7.6 Subtotal 30,206 1.50 1,461 6.4 INFERRED Underground Main 704 2.21 50 0.0 SULPHIDE Connector 50 2.49 4 0.0 Extension 4,977 2.42 387 0.0 Subtotal 5,731 2.39 441 0.0 INFERRED TOTAL 39,493 1.59 2,014 NA 2/24/2015 (2,3,4,6,7) UGD 2015-2 INFERRED Underground SULPHIDE Extension 5,274 5.27 894 NA

Mineral resources were estimated by Mr. W. Lewis, P.Geo. and Mr. A. San Martin, MAusIMM(CP) of Micon International Ltd. (Micon), a Toronto based consulting company, independent of Unigold. Both Mr. Lewis and Mr. San Martin meet the requirements of a qualified person as established by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (May 2014) (the CIM Standards). The 2014 estimate is based on a long term gold price of US$ 1,500 per ounce and economic cut-off grades 0.32 g/t Au (OXIDE), 0.56 g/t (SULPHIDE) and 1.25 g/t (UNDERGROUND SULPHIDE). Open pit resources are reported within an optimized pit shell; underground resources are reported beneath the defined optimized pit shell. Mineral resources were estimated by Mr. W. Lewis, P.Geo. and Mr. A. San Martin, MAusIMM(CP) of Micon International Ltd. (Micon), a Toronto based consulting company, independent of Unigold. Both Mr. Lewis and Mr. San Martin meet the requirements of a qualified person as established by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (May 2014) (the CIM Standards). The 2014 estimate is based on a long term gold price of US$ 1,200 per ounce, a long term copper price of US$ 3.00 per pound and an economic cut-off grade of 3.50 g/t Au and assumed exploitation of the Candelones Extension deposit by means of underground mining. The mineral resource estimates are classified as INFERRED. CIM Standards define a Mineral Resource as a concentration of material in or on the Earth's crust in such form and quantity and of such grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction." The CIM Standards further define an INFERRED Mineral Resource as "that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonable assumed but not verified, geological and grade continuity." The CIM Standards state: "Due to the uncertainty that may be attached to Inferred Mineral Resources, it cannot be assumed that all or part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will be upgraded to an Indicated or Measured Mineral Resource as a result of continued exploration. Micon has not identified any legal, political, environmental or other risks that could materially affect the potential development of the mineral resource presented. The procedures, methodology and key assumptions supporting this mineral resource estimate are included in the Technical Report titled: "NI-43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimate for the Candelones Project, Neita Concession, Dominican Republic" with an Effective Date of November 4, 2013. The Technical Report is available on SEDAR as well as the Company's website. The procedures, methodology and key assumptions supporting this mineral resource estimate are included in the Technical Report titled: "NI-43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimate for the Candelones Extension Deposit, Candelones Project, Neita Concession, Dominican Republic" with an Effective Date of February 24, 2015. The Technical Report is available on SEDAR as well as the Company's website. Contains 41,175,000 lbs copper grading 0.35%.

Oxide Resource Opportunity

Historical drilling and trenching at the Candelones Main deposit intersected oxide mineralization where the Candelones Main deposit outcrops on the Candelones Main hill. Extensive surface trench sampling, largely at the Candelones Main deposit (~4000 samples), averages 3.5 g/t Au.

The exploration data defines a WNW trending corridor for over 500 metres in length and measures approximately 100 metres in width. The interpreted oxide trend is coincident with the topographic high defining the Candelones Main hill (Reference Figure 2.0).

At the Candelones Connector deposit, 200 metres to the southeast, a second oxide trend, measuring 250 metres in length and 100 metres in width, trends NE. The Connector oxide trend is defined largely by diamond drilling and is open along strike in both directions.

Figure 2.0  Candelones Main and Connector Oxide Resource Area

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/930bc2ad-2e21-47f4-8c2b-e2e6283e5620

The 2013 mineral resource estimate (Reference Table 1.0), estimated a total inferred oxide resource of 72,000 ozs of gold at the Candelones Main deposit with an additional 40,000 ozs of gold at the Candelones Connector. The average grade of the inferred oxide resource was estimated to be 1.0 g/t Au. Of particular interest is the fact that the average grade of the trench sample data from the defined oxide resource area is 3.5 g/t Au. As core recovery in the oxide mineralization was typically less than 50%, the Company believes that the grade of the oxide resource, based solely on the diamond drill results, may be understated.

The Company is planning to excavate targeted, vertical test pits centered on historical drill holes that intersected high grade oxide mineralization (Reference Figures 3.0 and 4.0). All four walls of the pits will be continuously channel sampled vertically on 1.0 metre intervals. The samples would be assayed for gold using the Companys established assaying protocol. In addition, bottle roll and cyanide leach analyses will be completed to provide an initial estimate of metallurgical recovery.

Figure 3.0  Candelones Main Oxide Resource Section A-A Looking North

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/be084dda-f368-475b-a91e-050f32aaab57

The assay results will be compared directly to the results returned by the drill hole on which the test pit is centered. The Company believes this will provide an indication as to whether or not the observed core loss in diamond drilling has understated the grade of the oxide resource.

The Company is currently identifying suitable excavators in the Dominican Republic that would be able to complete the planned test pit program.

Assuming that the results of the test pit program confirm there is an opportunity to increase the grade of the oxide resource, then the Company would initiate efforts to mobilize a reverse circulation drill to site and complete a close spaced drill program along the two oxide trends. The objective of that drill program would be to establish the limits of the oxide resource and complete a measured and indicated mineral resource estimate that would support a Pre-feasibility level study.

Figure 4.0  Candelones Connector Oxide Resource Section B-B Looking East

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/46954a15-4ab2-4c8f-b16f-a43e8db17016

High Grade Sulphide Opportunity

Exploration drilling during 2016 focused on high grade areas within the defined mineral resource footprint with the dual objectives of defining a mineral resource amenable to underground mining and to increase the confidence level of the inferred resource to measured and indicated classification. This targeted approach identified three areas of higher grade mineralization within the existing mineral resource footprint, all of which remain open and represent an opportunity to increase both the size and quality of the mineral resource estimate.

Table 2.0 presents the significant intercepts of the most recent exploration at the Candelones Extension deposit.





Table 2.0  Significant Drill Intercepts - 2016

Target Hole ID From To Interval (1) Au Cu (#) (m) (m) (m) (g/t) (%) "Target A" - Au-Cu rich massive

to semi-massive sulphides-flat lying,

plunging 30 degrees NE, historical

drilling overshot this massive sulphide

system which remains open down

plunge to the east. LP15-93 298.6 314.3 15.7 7.45 1.1 LP15-94 No massive or semi massive sulphides LP15-95 252.6 287.5 34.9 6.19 0.6 309.9 314.0 4.1 7.31 1.1 LP15-96 279.0 313.0 34.0 4.15 0.4 324.0 333.0 9.0 4.81 0.7 LP16-101 409.6 419.4 9.8 3.10 0.6 LP16-102 No massive or semi massive sulphides LP16-114 256.8 278.0 21.2 6.00 0.9 LP16-115 288.3 294.0 5.7 3.80 1.2 LP16-116 214.0 239.0 25.0 1.50 0.0 LP16-117 290.0 295.0 5.0 1.80 0.6 LP16-118 180.0 185.0 5.0 7.80 0.3 and 252.0 257.0 5.0 3.06 0.9 LP16-124 333.3 339.2 5.9 11.80 0.2 LP16-126 No massive or semi massive sulphides LP16-127 No massive or semi massive sulphides "Target B" -Stacked

vertical feeder, upper Zn-Ag-Au-Cu

mineralization; lower Au-Cu massive

to semi-massive sulphides similar to

Target A. LP16-97 249.0 264.0 15.0 1.15 0.0 LP16-98 245.8 250.6 4.8 7.32 0.2 LP16-99 276.6 283.0 6.4 4.23 0.2 LP16-100 291.1 300.6 9.5 2.43 0.2 and 307.5 319.5 12.0 7.46 1.4 LP16-119 224.7 264.5 39.8 1.40 0.1 LP16-120 255.2 274.0 18.8 2.00 0.1 and 363.0 369.7 6.7 3.30 1.9 LP16-121 269.5 302.0 32.5 0.90 0.1 LP16-122 No significant values LP16-123 265.4 280.1 14.7 6.50 0.9 and 371.5 379.5 8.0 9.40 0.9 LP16-128 249.6 274.0 24.4 3.20 0.2 and 333.8 336.5 2.7 5.20 0.7 and 461.0 462.1 1.1 0.60 0.4 "Target C" - Au-Ag-Zn rich

semi-massive sulphides - open to

the west - historical drilling

interpreted to have overshot this

higher grade mineralization. LP16-103 117.0 123.0 6.0 8.86 0.2 LP16-104 134.9 138.2 3.3 5.06 0.2 LP16-105 176.0 184.0 8.0 6.30 0.1 LP16-106 141.0 154.3 13.3 1.08 0.1 LP16-107 168.0 311.0 143.0 1.44 0.1 LP16-108 190.0 197.0 7.0 1.30 0.3 LP16-109 165.0 169.0 4.0 10.10 0.2 LP16-110 155.4 160.0 4.6 3.40 0.1 233.0 245.0 12.0 9.70 0.1 LP16-111 250.0 252.0 2.0 5.00 0.2 LP16-112 No significant values LP16-113 223.1 228.6 5.5 4.10 0.1

(1) - Interval is measured down hole and should not be interpreted as true width.

Jeremy S. Brett, M.Sc., P.Geo. of MPH Consulting Limited (MPH), the Companys Senior Geophysical Consultant, has reviewed the IP data acquired by Insight Geophysics Inc. in 2011. They have advised the Company of the following:

Inversion of the data by MPH indicates that IP accurately depicts the mineral resource envelop at Candelones (Reference Figures 5.0 and 6.0);

The 2011 IP data is not optimally oriented to isolate the massive sulphide mineralization intersected in 2016. The NE orientation of the massive sulphide mineralization places it in the null of the N-S oriented IP gradient lines (Reference Figure 1.0);

The 2011 IP survey included N-S Insight Sections on roughly 400 metre spacings. This line spacing was not adequate to resolve the high grade, sub vertical feeders identified by recent drilling; and

The 2011 survey was designed to evaluate the IP responses to a depth of 300 metres from surface. Deeper looking Insight Section data is required to resolve the Massive Sulfide body.

Figure 5.0 - Candelones Extension IP Survey Inversions with Resource Shell looking NNW

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6cce8aef-dfeb-4381-a758-b95b09270e63

MPH has recommended a follow up IP survey with the following design considerations:

Close spaced IP gradient lines on 100 metre centres;

Lines would be oriented parallel and perpendicular to the massive sulphide mineralization; and

The survey would be designed to evaluate to a maximum depth of 500 metres from surface.

Figure 6.0  Candelones Extension IP Survey Inversions with Resource Shell looking NW

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f664643a-dbd7-4b59-bc22-cdc1c896d453

The Company believes that the new IP survey will highlight the massive sulphide mineralization and provide a signature response that can be used to evaluate targets elsewhere within the Concession boundary in the future. It will also assist in drill targeting to expand the massive sulphide mineralization and, by extension, increase the mineral resources of the Candelones Extension deposit.

MPH has provided a grid layout. On approval of the Environmental License, the Company plans to mobilize local labour to establish the grid in the field. The Company currently estimates that the grid can be established within a month of approval of the Environmental License. The IP survey can commence once the grid has been established.

The Company believes that the IP survey can be completed and drill targets generated within six months of approval of the Environmental License.

QA/QC

Diamond drilling utilizes both HQ and NQ diameter tooling. Holes are established using HQ diameter tooling before reducing to NQ tooling to complete the hole. The core is received at the on-site logging facility where it is photographed, logged for geotechnical and geological data and subjected to other physical tests including magnetic susceptibility and specific gravity analysis. Samples are identified, recorded, split by wet diamond saw, and half the core is sent for assay with the remaining half stored on site. A minimum sample length of 0.3 metres and a maximum sample length of 1.5 metres are employed with most samples averaging 1.0 metres in length except where geological contacts dictate. Certified standards and blanks are randomly inserted into the sample stream and constitute approximately 5-10% of the sample stream. Samples are shipped to a sample preparation facility in the Dominican Republic operated by Bureau Veritas. Assaying is performed at Bureau Veritas Commodities Canada Ltd.s laboratory in Vancouver, B.C. Canada. All samples are analyzed for gold using a 50 gram lead collection fire assay fusion with an atomic adsorption finish. In addition, most samples are also assayed using a 36 element multi-acid ICP-ES analysis method.

Wes Hanson P.Geo., Chief Operating Officer and Technical Director of Unigold, who is a qualified person under the definitions established by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the contents of this press release.

About Unigold Inc.  Discovering Gold in the Caribbean

Unigold is a Canadian based mineral exploration company traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol UGD, focused primarily on exploring and developing its gold assets in the Dominican Republic.

For further information please visit www.unigoldinc.com or contact:

Mr. Joseph Del Campo, Interim President & CEO jdelcampo@unigoldinc.com

416.866.8157

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this document, including statements regarding events and financial trends that may affect our future operating results, financial position and cash flows, may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are based on our assumptions and estimates and are subject to risk and uncertainties. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words like strategy, expects, plans, believes, will, estimates, intends, projects, goals, targets, and other words of similar meaning. You can also identify them by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. We wish to caution you that such statements contained are just predictions or opinions and that actual events or results may differ materially. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are made as of the date hereof and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Where applicable, we claim the protection of the safe harbour for forward-looking statements provided by the (United States) Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
English French

Chalk River, ON, Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), Canadas premier nuclear science and technology organization, is pleased to announce that it will host the seventh annual international Organically Bound Tritium (OBT) Workshop from September 24  26 in Toronto, Ontario. This week-long workshop brings together leading researchers and organizations from across the globe to discuss and share knowledge of OBT, including its behaviour and analysis. The 2018 workshop will also feature sessions dedicated to discussions of recent inter-comparison exercise results, as well as presentations and submissions of technical papers.

The term organically bound tritium refers to tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, which is retained within organic matter through natural processes, such as photosynthesis. While both tritiated water (HTO) and OBT occur naturally in small amounts, the workshop has a particular focus on OBT that results from nuclear operations, legacy nuclear practices, or unplanned environmental releases.

Internationally, OBT analysis is increasingly of interest, explains Sang-Bog Kim, a senior environmental scientist at CNL, and a globally-respected expert in OBT. Because tritium, when organically bound, is retained in an ecosystem longer than tritium in water, building our knowledge in this area is critical to making science-informed decisions on how best to respond should a release to the environment occur.

After the Fukushima accident, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) recommended that models used in risk assessment of Canadian nuclear facilities be firmly based on measured data; however, there was no standard method or certified reference materials for environmental samples of OBT. To help address this, in 2012 Canadian nuclear organizations along with CEA (France) spearheaded the first OBT inter-laboratory exercise. Through the exercise, participants gained a better understanding of the variability in OBT data by comparing the results in different samples types. It was determined that the adoption of a consensus OBT analysis methodology would be beneficial, and that annual inter-laboratory OBT analysis exercises would help laboratories improve analytical methods more broadly.

As the host organization of the 2018 OBT Workshop, CNL led the development of the inter-laboratory exercise. This meant the development of the material used as the test sample (in the case of the 2018 test, fish flesh was used), as well as the preparation of the sample material for shipment to the participating countries. In addition to the sample material, the methodology for conducting the analysis was also carefully documented and provided to ensure a uniform approach.

While research into OBT has been conducted for years, only recently has it become a focal point in the nuclear science community, explains Mike Bredlaw, R&D Officer with CNL. Everyone uses different approaches or methodologies for OBT analysis, which makes it difficult to compare results. Through the inter-laboratory exercises, we are sharing results and techniques with other leading labs, and making great progress in developing international standards.

While research into OBT has been conducted at the Chalk River Laboratories campus since the 1980s, CNL has very recently invested into new capabilities, including new equipment for OBT sample preparation and analysis. Investments have also been made into facilities which complement the work being conducted currently on OBT including the commissioning of a world-class hydrogen research complex in 2015, a dedicated tritium laboratory in 2016, and a significant refurbishment of its analytical chemistry laboratories. These investments are part of a larger, $1.2 billion campus revitalization being funded by Atomic Energy of Canada Limited on behalf of the Government of Canada.

About CNL

Canadian Nuclear Laboratories is a world leader in nuclear science and technology offering unique capabilities and solutions across a wide range of industries. Actively involved with industry-driven research and development in nuclear, transportation, clean technology, energy, defence, security and life sciences, we provide solutions to keep these sectors competitive internationally.

With ongoing investments in new facilities and a focused mandate, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories is well positioned for the future. A new performance standard reinforced with a strong safety culture underscores every activity.

For more information on the complete range of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories services, please visit www.cnl.ca or contact communications@cnl.ca .

Contact:

Patrick Quinn

Director, Corporate Communications

CNL, 1-866-886-2325

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8b0f3cdc-53fa-4a19-bc08-6269db604474
TORONTO, Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Captor Capital Corp. (Captor or the Company) (CSE:CPTR; FRANKFURT:NMV; USOTC:NWURF) today announced that it has agreed to purchase Chai Cannabis Inc. for US$6.1 million in cash and a further US$200,000 to purchase existing inventory at cost. Chai Cannabis currently operates a fully adult use dispensary in Santa Cruz, California. One of the most popular dispensaries in the area, the location averages sales in excess of US$700,000 per month. The company also possesses a license permitting cannabis delivery within the greater Santa Cruz area.



This investment represents a fantastic growth opportunity for Captor Capital at an extremely reasonable purchase price when Chais annual revenues are considered, said I-5 Holdings CEO, John MacPhail. Not only is Chai Cannabis one of the areas leading dispensaries, we feel the Santa Cruz area itself is ripe for further growth. In light of this we are particularly excited about the potential to grow revenues by leveraging the existing delivery license to implement a top quality local delivery service.

For the three years spanning 2014-2017, Chai Cannabis Inc. represented to Captor revenues of approximately US$10 million per year, although revenues took a slight dip in 2017 to US$8.4 million due to the proliferation of newly licensed locations. In 2018 the dispensary has been one of the few in California not to experience a product shortage when the State ushered in a new set of regulations pertaining to the safety and packaging of all cannabis product.

The fact Chai has not been affected by the state wide product shortage resulting from the new regulations points to strength of the management team and were happy that the current management team will remain on board to manage the dispensary, said MacPhail. We also are confident in our ability to quickly return to, and exceed, previous revenue levels, as the dispensary has never implemented an advertising campaign and has yet to make use of its very valuable delivery license.

The dispensary is also permitted to at least double the size of the showroom which will become at state of the art facility. These renovations are currently underway and are expected to be completed this summer. The newly renovated space will allow Chai to carry a much wider range of flowers, edibles and extracts, further entrenching its leadership position in the Santa Cruz market.

Becoming part of the Captor Capital team represents an exciting new chapter for Chai Cannabis, said dispensary manager, Josh Lechner,. With a number of exciting investments already in California and a strong executive team, Im confident Captor has the skills and the knowledge to take Chai to the next level.

About Captor Capital

Captor Capital Corp. is a Canadian investment firm focused on the cannabis sector listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange, the OTC, and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. The company follows a strategy of acquiring cash flowing established companies and organizations with growth potential that require capital to scale. Captor currently has a number of revenue generating cannabis investments including two wholly owned branded MedMen dispensaries  the world famous West Hollywood location and the and the showpiece Orange County dispensary in Santa Ana. Captor Capital is currently looking at additional revenue generating investments in the cannabis space and will be updating the market in due course.

Investor Contact

John Zorbas, CEO

Captor Capital Corp.

416.504.3978

johnz@captorcapital.com

Media Contact

Gavin Davidson, Communications

Captor Capital Corp.

705.446.6630

gavin@captorcapital.com



Forward-Looking Statements

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATIONS SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

This press release contains or refers to forward-looking information, and is based on current expectations that involve a number of business risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement include, but are not limited to availability of investment opportunities, economic circumstances, market fluctuations and uncertainties, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, changes in equity markets, inflation, changes in exchange rates, and the other risks involved in the investment industry and junior capital markets. Forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no responsibility to update them or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances other than as required by law.




Among the many fairgoers at the annual Richland County Fair was Doug Kaercher, the Havre native who is running for Public Service Commissioner in District I. Kaercher, who has served as the Havre Finance Director and Clerk, an administrative law judge for the State Tax Appeal Board, a Hill County Commissioner and as a Havre City Councilman, spoke with The Roundup about his aspirations for the Public Service Commission.

Explaining his role as an administrative law judge, Kaecher said, "When you disagree with the state on your property taxes, you can appeal them to the State Tax Appeal Board, if you disagree with the assessment of the County Tax Appeal Board. I started that in 2007 and went until 2012. I then came back to Havre and became the Finance Director up until that time."

Kaercher said, "I want to run for PSC for a couple different reasons. First, if you look at my background it's pretty diverse. I like challenges and I especially like challenges where I can make a difference. In this case, I believe the PSC has a tendency to work on the adversarial side to industry, and I'm a certified mediator."

Kaercher, who is running on the Democratic ticket, further explained, "Right now all of the current PSC commissioners are Republican and I believe in balance. I want Richland County voters to know that I am a reasonable and responsible choice."

"I want to make sure the industry stays healthy," Kaercher continued, "that they get a return on their investment, and that it stays healthy. That's what I want people to understand. I'm fair. I've been an administrative law judge, and I know how to deal with companies and know if they're getting a reasonable rate of return."

The candidate has been married to Darla for 32 years and has three married daughters with two grandchildren, with one son-in-law who is in the army special forces. He spoke of the importance of alternative energy production in Montana.

"One of the things that this commission needs to work on is that it's not friendly to renewable resources. I support 'all of the above.' I support coal because it's our base power, but I also support solar and wind because at some point in the future we're going to need it. The current PSC has made production of solar and wind almost impossible."

"Solar and wind is currently cheaper than coal with federal subsidies," Keacher asserted in his appeal for Montana to become more business friendly to alternative energy.

Kaecher was asked why Richland County voters would want to invest in solar and wind energy through federal subsidies when it is powered by clean coal in the free market. He responded, "We're likely to need more energy in the future. We're probably going to start using considerably more energy and will need those items. I can't say it's true in Montana, but it is in the West generally, that we will not be using coal-powered electricity because of the public perception of coal."

"I think the message I want to convey is that I'm responsible, reasonable, and bringing balance to the commission," Keacher said.
BISMARCK, N.D.  A cemetery has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The National Register of Historic Places is the federal governments list of properties it considers worthy of preservation and recognition. North Dakota nominations are coordinated by the State Historical Society of North Dakota.

The Assyrian Muslim Cemetery near Ross is the site of the first mosque in the nation and was the only Muslim cemetery in North Dakota for 90 years. The Syrian settlers in this area began arriving in 1902 and came with the same dreams for living better lives that most homesteaders shared. Upon arrival, they experienced the same hardships, conditions, and similar successes as other settlers. This cemetery is significant as it is the only place remaining in the area that distinctly testifies to the culture of this particular group of people.

Contrary to some misconceptions about the National Register program, listing in it does not prevent owners from altering their property, restrict the use or sale of the property, or require establishing times that the property must be open to the public. Entry into the National Register of Historic Places does give a property prestige, provides protection from adverse effects in federally assisted projects, and provides eligibility for certain preservation financial incentives.

For more information about the National Register program in North Dakota, contact Acting Architectural Historian Susan Quinnell at 701-328-3576 or find information online at history.nd.gov.
Foreign trade and industrial production figures from Germany are due on Tuesday, headlining a light day for the European economic news.

At 2.00 am ET, Destatis is slated to release Germany's industrial production and foreign trade reports. Industrial production is seen falling 0.5 percent on month in June, reversing a 2.6 percent rise in May.

Economists forecast Germany's exports to drop 0.4 percent month-on-month after rising 1.8 percent a month ago.

At 2.45 am ET, France's foreign trade figures are due. Economists forecast the trade deficit to narrow to EUR 5.5 billion in June from EUR 6 billion in May.

At 3.00 am ET, industrial output from Hungary and trade figures from the Czech Republic are due.

At 3.30 am ET, UK Halifax house price data is due. House prices are expected to rise 0.2 percent on month in July, following a 0.3 percent increase in June.

Also, at 3.30 am ET, Statistics Sweden releases industrial production and orders figures.

For comments and feedback contact: 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.
IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vicki Gunvalson, The Real Housewives of Orange County star and owner of Coto Insurance and Financial Services, recently announced she will be hosting a vacation getaway for fans and friends at the Hyatt Ziva in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The all-inclusive vacation kicks off on December 1st, 2018 and concludes December 5th, 2018.

I am so excited to have the opportunity to whoop it up on a beautiful Mexican vacation with some of the greatest fans in the world, said Ms. Gunvalson. If you like good food, good drinks, warm sun, dancing, and laying out by the pool, you dont want to miss this trip!

Participating vacationers automatically receive upgraded ocean front accommodations, and all meals, premium drinks, and Wi-Fi included with their purchase. The trip has been structured so fans can spend several hours each day with Vicki. Tickets are available for purchase at www.anexclusiveaffair.com.

Trip Itinerary

Saturday, Dec 1  Guests are greeted by Vicki upon arrival at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta

Sunday, Dec 2  Beach party with Vicki

Monday, Dec 3  Q&A with Vicki

Monday, Dec 3  Pool time with Vicki

Tuesday, Dec 4  Cocktail Party with Vicki

Wednesday, Dec 5  Departure

Ms. Gunvalson has appeared on The Real Housewives of Orange County since the shows inception in 2006, and recently wrapped up filming season 13, which is now airing on Bravo. In addition, Ms. Gunvalson is the proud owner of Coto Insurance and Financial Services, Inc., where she seeks to mentor and employ other working women and mothers like herself.

###

anexclusiveaffair.com
US President Donald Trump has restored sanctions on Iran that he announced in May while withdrawing from the 2015 multi-nation nuclear deal with the Islamic nation.

In connection with the withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the Trump Administration laid out two wind-down periods of 90 days and 180 days for US activities in or involving Iran.

On August 7, when the 90-day wind-down period expired, the first set of sanctions came into force.

Trump signed an executive order targeting the purchase or acquisition of US bank notes by the Iranian Government; Iran's trade in gold and other precious metals; Graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software used in industrial processes; Transactions related to the Iranian rial; Activities relating to Iran's issuance of sovereign debt; and Iran's automotive sector. Transactions related to the purchase of commercial passenger aircraft will be prohibited.

In an early morning tweet Tuesday, Trump described them as "the most biting sanctions ever imposed", and indicated that "in November they ratchet up to yet another level". He also gave a warning to the international community by saying that "Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States". According to the President, he is "asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less."

A second phase of "snapback" sanctions is scheduled to come back into effect on November 5. They will have implications on Iran's oil exports and energy sector, financial institutions conducting transactions with the Central Bank of Iran, Iran's port operators and shipping and ship-building sectors, and the provision of insurance and financial messaging services.

The White House said the US Government will also relist hundreds of individuals, entities, vessels, and aircraft that were previously included on sanctions lists.

Trump withdrew from the JCPOA claiming that it was defective at its core and failed to guarantee the safety of the American people.

He accused the Iranian regime of exploiting the global financial system to fund its malign activities, and of using this funding to support terrorism, promote ruthless regimes, destabilize the region, and abuse the human rights of its own people.

But Iran's President refutes these allegations. Hassan Rouhani said that Washington's call for new nuclear negotiations at the same time as it reimposes crippling sanctions "doesn't make sense" and is an attempt of "psychological warfare" aimed to "sow division among Iranians".

"If you're an enemy and you stab the other person with a knife and then you say you want negotiations, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife," he said in an interview on state television.

The European Union is against the US sanctions on Iran.

On the eve of the scheduled enforcement of sanctions against Iran, the European Commission announced that its updated Blocking Statute enters into force Tuesday to mitigate the impact of US sanctions on the interests of EU companies doing legitimate business in Iran.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Political News
Robinhood, a commission-free stock and cryptocurrency trading app, has now added support for one more virtual currency, Ethereum Classic after recently adding Dogecoin, Litecoin and Bitcoin Cash on its crypto trading platform. The app had initially supported only Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Currently, app customers can monitor market data, read cryptocurrency news, and create price alerts for 16 cryptocurrencies, including Ripple, Zcash, Monero, Dash, Stellar, Qtum, Bitcoin Gold, OmiseGo, NEO, and Lisk.

The Menlo Park, California-based financial services company launched its no-fee stock trading app about three years ago. The company began options trading last year and limited cryptocurrency trading on February 22 this year.

Robinhood crypto trading is currently available in 19 states in the U.S. and plans to expand its coin offerings and add support for coin transfers.

Recently, Robinhood said it was set to develop a cryptocurrency wallet for the users of its crypto-trading platform. In a job advertisement for a Crypto Engineer, the company said the Crypto Engineer will be responsible, among other things, for adding new currencies or providing wallet functionality.

Robinhood is reportedly looking to be a full-service consumer finance company. Bloomberg reported recently that Robinhood was in talks to obtain a US banking license.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
By SA Commercial Prop News

National Police Commissioner General Bheki Cele.



AFTER months of speculation about his fate, national police commissioner General Bheki Cele has been suspended.

National Police Commissioner General Bheki Cele has been suspended pending the outcome of an investigation into "unlawful" police lease agreements. President Jacob Zuma announced on Monday.

"In August, I informed the national commissioner, General Bheki Cele, of my intention to institute a board of inquiry to look into the allegations of misconduct, in relation to the procurement of office accommodation for the South African Police Service, as per the findings and recommendations of the public protector," Zuma told reporters in Pretoria.

The board of inquiry will be led by retired Justice Yvonne Mokgoro, alongside advocates Terry Motau and Anthea Platt.

"I have also decided to suspend the national commissioner from duty with immediate effect, pending the outcome of the inquiry, in terms of section 8 (3) (a) read with Section 9 (1) of the South African Police Service Act.

"He will, during the period of suspension, be entitled to his full salary, allowances, privileges and benefits, in terms of Section 8(3)(b) of the Act."

Major General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi would act in Cele's position, Zuma said.

Public Protector Thuli Madonsela found that Cele's actions involving the procurement of two building leases for new police headquarters, valued at R1.6bn, were unlawful and amounted to maladministration.

Zuma's announcement follows weeks of speculation on Cele's future, including a news report that would be offered a diplomatic post in Canada, a notion rejected by the international relations department.
FREDERICKSBURG, Texas, Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Murphree & Company recently announced plans are moving forward on their development of a $76 million project, The Seven Hills Resort and Conference Center in Fredericksburg, Texas.





The resort will be located on the west end of Fredericksburg on a 22 acre property at the intersection of US Highway 87 North and US Highway 290 West, bringing the first full-service hotel property to Fredericksburg.





The Seven Hills Resort and Conference Center is being developed by Houston-based Murphree and Company, with Austin-based The Beck Group overseeing design and construction. Hotel consulting is being handled by DP Consulting of Houston. The property will be flagged under the Curio Collection by Hilton and managed by The Woodlands-based hospitality management company, Benchmark Global Hospitality.





According to Murphree and Company Managing General Partner, Dennis Murphree, This project has been a pleasure from the beginning. City leadership has worked with us in true partnership to create something of immense value to Fredericksburg and the Texas Hill Country. Our hope is to design and build a project that looks like it has always been a part of the Fredericksburg landscape.





The Seven Hills Resort and Conference Center details:

$76 million total project cost (including $60 million construction cost)

150 room, full service hotel

17,500 square feet of useable conference center space

Rooftop bar

Spa

Outdoor amphitheater

Two acre park

Restoration of the historic Klingelhoefer House

Ten new Sunday Houses

Retail and restaurant village

Curio Collection by Hilton

staffed & managed by Benchmark Global Hospitality





The Seven Hills Resort and Conference Center will aim to attract mid-week corporate and association groups who cannot currently be accommodated in Fredericksburg based on their meeting requirements. The focus will be on groups of 200-300 attendees.





According to Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor Bureau President/CEO, Ernie Loeffler, The Seven Hills Resort and Conference Center will significantly strengthen the group-market appeal of Fredericksburg based on room count under one roof, level of service, amenities, and the amount of meeting and event space. The resort will also be attractive to the leisure travel market as a full-service hotel  a market niche currently missing in Fredericksburg.





Construction on the resort/conference center project is scheduled to break ground in Fall 2018, with an opening slated for early 2020.





Other development team members are:





For More Information, Contact:

Dennis E. Murphree

Murphree & Company

713-655-8500

dmurphree@murphreeventures.com
As a young teenager growing up in a seaside suburb of Christchurch who never encountered a Samoan until college, the now former New Zealand High Commission to Samoa, David Nicholson, probably never imagined that he would one day be posted to an island nation.

His early resignation from the New Zealand post surprised many on the island who had become familiar with the cheerful and approachable statesman at many official and social events around the country.

Striking a good balance between his sunny disposition and pragmatic diplomacy, Mr. Nicholson has achieved much in his short time in Samoa.

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, Mr. Nicholson spoke openly about his experience during his 19-month tenure as the High Commissioner, sharing his views and advice on the enduring and sometimes tense relationship between Samoa and New Zealand.

 A colleague of mine once said to me that a diplomat is someone who thinks about an issue, thinks about it again and then does nothing about it. what I have tried to do during my time here is to be more authentic about that and if I say yes then I will make it my mandate to make it happen, he said.

Its been an intense time here because Ive tried to do things fast and I try to get things done. My background is not in diplomacy but it is in implementation - Ive been a second tier public servant in education, health and tertiary education. Ive worked across government in lots of areas and the biggest challenge with government is getting things done in a timely manner.

With prior experience working as the Director of the Pacific Development Division for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Nicholson came to Samoa and immediately adopted a mindset that he believes is absolutely vital to executing his role effectively.

Pacific Competence is very important, he said. I believe we can have a lot more delegated to the post to do in terms of information of aid programmes - theres too much implementation trickling in from Wellington.

Context is everything, when people talk about the Pacific in Wellington, they use a generic noun and as you know, you go to different Pacific countries and they are all very different.

Understanding the difference and that context means that your approach will be very different and varied. You might have development policy, take in the Pacific for example. But its never quite right in any one place and its like in New Zealand, you develop a policy that will fit Auckland but not the east coast.

What I have seen here is that our aid process is full of process and it takes a long time to get through to implementation. The good thing about our implementation is we are focused on quality to do a good job but I would like for us get the job done faster.

A lot of the process has to do with risk management but if you look across the aid programme  a lot of things fail. And it doesnt matter how much process or risk management you took into account, they failed and part of that is because they havent taken the local context into account.

Samoan family connections

Beyond his background experience of working in Pacific development, Mr. Nicholsons family connections to Samoa are strong and add to his own very Pacific way of doing things.

Married to a Samoan Dr. Debbie Ryan who is also the Director for Consultancy, Pacific Perspectives, the former High Commissioner feels strong familial bonds to Samoa. This has contributed to his ability to successfully navigate around potential cultural mines as well as communicate confidently across different sectors here in Samoa.

I feel very fortunate to have the relationships Ive had with people and very quickly integrate into the community - I think its partly because my wife is Samoan, he smiles.

Im rather forthright and direct and try to be authentic and honest. Ive had a very easy relationship with the Prime Minister and the government ministers and thats with access to decision makers and leaders have been very straightforward and very productive, I believe in the principles of development effectiveness you talk to the local partner about what it is they want to lead and how you can help and I rallied against those aspects of the programme where New Zealand makes decisions and implements them in Samoa.

Mr. Nicholson extended his Pacific competence to how he mentored and empowered his staff at the New Zealand High Commission, particularly the local Samoan staff.

There are only three seconded officers from New Zealand generally, they are only here for three years. What I tried to do here is take our local staff who are all highly qualified and are joint citizens of Samoa and New Zealand and have them lead in the sectors where they are doing the work.

What Ive tried to do is put New Zealands confidence in them that they are speaking for New Zealand and I appreciate thats not often easy for local staff because they have to represent a New Zealand view which might not always be concordant with the Samoan view but to mentor them in around the system because they are the enduring people that remain at post.

One of the main highlights during Mr. Nicholsons time here was his role in helping to facilitate and develop a business case to the New Zealand and Samoan governments for the use of the Yazaki factory when the company closed its operations a year ago.

It was a moment that moved Mr. Nicholson knowing that hundreds of Samoans were losing their jobs. Moving away from the traditional role of a diplomat, Mr. Nicholson was in his zone actively making moves to implement. They developed a business case in just four days to present to the Samoan and New Zealand governments.

A project like that would take a couple of years to develop the concept and design but we did a business case in four days, he said.

And we got that funding for Samoa which meant that we could facilitate the entry of those two New Zealand companies.

Getting that to happen required a lot of knowledge of Samoan system, a lot of knowledge of the matrix of responsibilities across government departments, they are not as clear cut as in new Zealand and a lot of negotiation. So I was pretty active in that area and thats not really the traditional role of a diplomat but our role is to help new Zealanders be safe and prosper in the world so that seemed to be a very good outcome.

Role with Tokelau

The only other thing shorter than Mr. Nicholsons tenure as the New Zealand High Commission was his time as the Tokelau Administrator - no one could say that his time here was uneventful as he recounted a rare moment of regret at never being able to pursue his ambitions for a more inter dependent relationship between Samoa and Tokelau.

For the brief period where I was the administrator for Tokelau, I was given a brief by then Minister Mccully which was a very tough brief about taking control of expenditure in Tokelau, he said. Unfortunately Minister McCully left in May, the ongoing leadership in M.F.A.T did not maintain that position.

I always felt that developing a service relationship between Samoa and Tokelau was the way to go. If I had been allowed to be more operational I would have really had strong contractual agreements between Samoas shipping and Tokelau and then Tokelau wouldnt have needed to buy that 8 million cargo vessel sitting out there in the harbour.

I had hoped that I would be supported for investment in Samoa and Tokelau. The inter dependence for the two countries is very high and the direct relationships between New Zealand and Tokelau can only be done through Samoa.

Treaty of Friendship

Underpinning Mr. Nicholsons passion for strengthening relations between New Zealand and Samoa for mutual gain was the enduring commitments to each other as outlined in the Friendship of Treaty. He emphasized that people need to read the treaty carefully and fully comprehend the meaning of special circumstances that differentiates the relationship between Samoa and New Zealand from other nations.

The problem is everyone knows theres a treaty but no one reads it, he said. Within that theres a whole lot of commitments and I would have thought if we embraced that very, very closely we might do things a bit differently.

The Treaty of Friendship have got some incredible commitments of countries to one another and it maintains that the relationship between Samoa and New Zealand will be held in special circumstances and those special circumstances are exemplified in the quota but I would have thought we needed to use those as an acid test for all aspects of our development relationship going forward.

Under the Treaty of Friendship model, you might expect out of the Pacific Reset to see a level of support coming into Samoa that might exceed some other Pacific countries and not be the same as others. I think its a very beneficial document and I think we should be very familiar with it and use it as an acid test.

Beyond that, Mr. Nicholson goes on to say that overall he has experienced very few challenges in Samoa itself having felt the level of hospitality shown to him ( which he suspects has something to do with his Samoan wife) was nothing short of amazing. Intelligent, pragmatic and compassionate, Nicholson was also unapologetically exuberant which made him even more endearing to the locals,

 People in the street just call out to me using my Christian name, theyre just amazing, he laughs. Part of that comes from having a Samoan wife and the other thing is Ive got a bit of an outgoing personality  take it or leave it

The former New Zealand High Commissioner left last weekend for Wellington but he told the Samoa Observer that his time here were filled with unforgettable experiences - his only regret was that he did not make time to take advantage of easy access to deep sea fishing in Samoa.

Proudest moment

But perhaps his proudest moment (which he hopes the New Zealand post will continue doing) was seeing the New Zealand High Commission office march in the Independence Day parade this year.

A really unique experience for me are things like attending Independence day. To be a part of that has been quite a privilege and quite an experience and last year at Independence my wife said to me  why arent you marching?

Wouldnt this be a great mark of respect to Samoa to see the New Zealand High Commission marching? so this year based on my wifes advice  we marched. We got unbelievable feedback, fantastic experience and the warmth and respect that it generated from people and I suspect that next year youll see a lot of diplomatic posts marching.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Already threatened by escalating U.S. taxes on its goods, China is about to find it much harder to invest in U.S. companies or to buy American technology in such cutting-edge areas as robotics, artificial intelligence and virtual reality.

President Donald Trump is expected as early as this week to sign legislation to tighten the U.S. government's scrutiny of foreign investments and exports of sensitive technology.

The law, which Congress passed in a rare show of unity among Republicans and Democrats, doesn't single out China. But there's no doubt the intended target is Beijing. The Trump administration has accused China of using predatory tactics to steal American technology.

"As a policy signal, it speaks with a very loud voice," said Harry Clark, head of the international trade practice at the law firm Orrick. "Leading decision makers and Congress are very concerned about technology transfer to China."

The Trump administration has already imposed tariffs on $34 billion in Chinese exports, is preparing taxes on a further $16 billion and has threatened to target an additional $200 billion of Beijing's exports and maybe still more.

As part of the same punitive campaign, Trump had initially ordered the Treasury Department to draft investment restrictions aimed specifically at China. But in late June, Trump decided instead to back Congress' effort to tighten existing investment restrictions and export controls on all countries, rather than China alone.

The new law strengthens reviews of foreign investment by the existing Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, or CFIUS, which is led by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. The committee can now review any investments that grant foreigners access to a U.S. company's high-tech trade secrets. Before the change, such reviews were done only when a foreigner gained control of a company.

The new law also gives the committee oversight of real estate deals that are deemed to pose a national security risk by putting foreigners in "close proximity" to government offices and military bases. The legislation will also crack down on deals that appear structured to evade such oversight.

Congress is also directing the committee to go beyond specific cases to identify patterns in foreign investment  if, for example, Chinese companies are acquiring a specific technology  and to work with U.S. allies that share its concerns about Beijing's high-tech ambitions.

"Treasury can now share information," said Rod Hunter, a partner at the Baker McKenzie law firm and a former White House economic adviser. "They used to have to do all kinds of backflips and workarounds with allied governments to deal with this sort of issue."

The new law also strengthens the Commerce Department's oversight of high-tech exports. Government agencies will identify sensitive "emerging and foundational technologies" that will be subject to tougher export controls.

Hunter said he thought the stricter oversight of high-tech exports could potentially impose a bigger impact on China than the tariffs the Trump administration has imposed on Beijing's exports to the United States.

Still, the new measures could burden U.S. companies that will find it harder to attract Chinese investment or to share with Chinese partners or customers technology that the U.S. government might deem sensitive.

"It could be that we're pushing American tech firms out of China," said Derek Scissors, China specialist at the conservative American Enterprise Institute.

The crackdown reflects a sharp reversal in U.S. attitudes toward Chinese investment. From virtually nothing in 2000, Chinese direct investment in the United States (including new plants and offices and acquisitions of American companies) reached a record $46 billion in 2016, according to the Rhodium Group research firm.

Chinese investors sank money into U.S. companies involved in artificial intelligence, robotics and blockchain technology, which is used to do business in cryptocurrencies. U.S. policymakers began to worry about what the Chinese were up to, especially after leaders in Beijing made their ambitions clear: They intend to nurture homegrown Chinese companies that will contend for global dominance in such fields as electric cars, robotics and medical devices.

In March, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative reported that Chinese investors were using money provided by Beijing to outbid private companies and pay above-market rates for technology and talent. And last year, a Defense Department report sounded the alarm about China obtaining technology that could have military uses.

"The line demarcating products designed and used for commercial versus military purposes is blurring," said the report from the Pentagon's Defense Innovation Unit Experimental.

It noted that virtual-reality gaming was becoming as sophisticated as what the armed forces use for battlefield simulations and that facial recognition technology used in social media can track terrorists.

Even before the new law, U.S. reviews of Chinese investments were becoming stricter. In January, the government effectively blocked the acquisition of the Dallas-based money transfer service MoneyGram by the Chinese firm Ant Financial. Its concern was that the deal would give China access to the financial records of millions of Americans, including members of the military.

The result has been a deepfreeze in direct Chinese investment in the United States: It tumbled 36 percent last year to $29 billion. In the first half of this year, such investment dropped to its lowest level in seven years  $1.8 billion  down 90 percent from the first six months of 2017, according to Rhodium Group.
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP)  Kenyans and Tanzanians on Tuesday marked the 20th anniversary of the al-Qaida bombings of the U.S. embassies in their countries that killed more than 250 people, with hundreds of local survivors calling on the U.S. government for compensation.

The explosions on Aug. 7, 1998, were the first major al-Qaida attack on U.S. targets. Nearly 5,000 people were injured.

The U.S. ambassador to Kenya, Robert Godec, said the extremists wanted to cause a rift between Kenyans and Americans but failed.

"Their immediate purpose was to kill and destroy, but they had more in mind. They sought to divide us, to divide friends ... to undermine the values we hold dear, to destroy civilization itself and to replace it with a nightmare of oppression," Godec said.

In a separate statement, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that "our partnership with our African allies remains stronger than ever."

One survivor of the Nairobi attack said hundreds of Kenyans were still pursuing compensation from the U.S., while U.S. citizens working in the embassy had been compensated.

Douglas Sidialo, spokesman with the Kenyan victims' association, was blinded in the attack.

"You have to ask, do they care about the dreams and aspirations of the survivors? The unity the ambassador is talking about is a fallacy," Sidialo said.

The push to aid Kenyan victims is now focused on the U.S. Congress, Washington-based attorney Philip Musolino, who is representing 538 victims with compensation claims, was quoted in Kenya's leading newspaper The Daily Nation on Tuesday as saying.

The embassy bombings brought al-Qaida to the attention of the U.S. public and the world three years before the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks in New York and Washington that killed nearly 3,000.

Kenya has remained under threat from the al-Qaida-linked al-Shabab group based in neighboring Somalia. The group claimed responsibility for the 2013 Westgate Mall attack in Kenya's capital, Nairobi, that killed 67 people and the 2015 Garissa University attack that killed 147 people, mostly students.

Al-Shabab more recently has been targeting Kenyan security forces, with nearly 100 police officers killed since May 2017 in bombings and ambushes.
Sempra, the San Diego-based Fortune 500 energy giant, Monday reported a loss for the quarter because of costs related to its planned sale of some natural gas storage and renewable energy assets.

Sempra said it had a net loss of $561 million, or $2.11 a share, in the quarter, after earnings of $259 million, or $1.03 a share, in the year-earlier quarter. Revenue rose to $2.564 billion from $2.533 billion,

The costs were largely related to the planned sale of the companys U.S. holdings in wind assets, as well as gas storage facilities in the Deep South.

Without those costs, Sempra would have earned $361 million, or $1.35 per share, during the quarter, the company said. That compares to $1.10 in the second quarter of 2017.

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I think it was a decent quarter, said Andy Smith, a senior analyst who follows utilities for Edward Jones. I dont think it was great.

The quarterly report was the first since a group of activist investors, controlling a 4.9 percent stake in Sempra, went public with criticism of the companys management strategy, saying Sempra should streamline its portfolio to improve the bottom line.

The activist investors group, Elliott Management and Bluescape Resources, declined comment on the second quarter numbers.

Sempra CEO Jeff Martin said he and three members of the companys board of directors met face-to-face with the activist group in New York City. Martin did not offer specifics but said, the tone of the conversations are good, all the right people are engaged and I remain very optimistic about it.

Martin opened the earnings call with energy analysts by saying the companys strategic vision is aimed at becoming the premier North American energy infrastructure company and said the company successfully completed a $1.85 billion stock offering to help wrap up the biggest deal in Sempras history, the acquisition of Oncor, the largest utility in Texas.

Sempra stock finished the trading day at $115.35, down 1.23 percent.

Wildfires

The earnings call came on the same day the California Legislature came back from summer recess. One of the major issues in Sacramento involves the financial responsibility of utilities in the state in regards to wildfires. Sempra is the parent company of San Diego Gas & Electric and Southern California Gas.

As interpreted by California courts, the legal concept known as inverse condemnation finds that utilities can be held liable for damages caused by wildfires linked to their own equipment  even if the companies followed accepted safety procedures.

Supporters of inverse condemnation say it makes sure that power companies act responsibly but utilities say its an unfair standard that could lead them to bankruptcy.

Gov. Jerry Brown two weeks ago inserted himself into the debate, calling for an alteration of the doctrine that would balance the public benefit of the electrical infrastructure with the damage caused by a wildfire while also determining if the utility acted reasonably.

Sempra officials Monday said they are hopeful a legislative fix can be put in place by the time the legislative session wraps up at the end of the month.

The governor wants healthy utilities, said Joseph Householder, Sempras chief operating officer.

LNG

Another priority centers around Sempras efforts to become a global player in the growing liquefied natural gas export market.

The companys Cameron project in Louisiana is expected to begin producing LNG next year while permitting and planning is proceeding apace for projects in Port Arthur, Texas, and Baja, Mexico.

The projected cash distributions after debt service for Cameron to Sempra are expected to be more than $11 billion during the projects 20-year contract period.

People have been waiting for several years for the LNG facility to start producing and start shipping, said Smith. Thats when (Sempras) earnings should increase significantly.

Last Friday, China included LNG as part of proposed tariffs on $60 billion on U.S. goods in retaliation for the Trump administrations plan to impose $200 billion in duties on Chinese imports.

Sempra has no LNG contracts with firms in China and Martin downplayed the long-term implications of a budding trade war.

LNG is an important part of Chinas future, Martin said. We certainly see that as the key fuel that will help push coal off of their grid and frankly, the United States will always be one of the lowest-cost suppliers, and we think this bodes well for the future.

Business

rob.nikolewski@sduniontribune.com

(619) 293-1251 Twitter: @robnikolewski

ALSO

Gov. Brown backs liability changes for California utilities in wildfires

Sempra selling some of its assets  but activist investors appear unmoved

Opportunities and challenges for Sempras new CEO
Infuriated over San Diegos strict new short-term rental regulations, Airbnb and HomeAway have launched a referendum effort in hopes of overturning legislation it has characterized as a ban.

Signature gatherers have already started circulating petitions, which ask that the San Diego City Council either repeal the new regulations, which do not go into effect until next July, or place the matter before the voters. The referendum effort is being funded by the Committee to Expand the Middle Class, supported by Airbnb, which so far has contributed $100,000 to the campaign group.

The referendum is a joint effort by the online home sharing platforms Airbnb, HomeAway, and Share San Diego, a coalition of short-term rental hosts and vacation rental management companies. In a call Tuesday with members of the press, the coalition discussed its plan to fight back against the councils action last Wednesday to significantly rein in the proliferation of short-term rentals citywide.

That fight could also include legal challenges, although representatives said their current focus is on the referendum effort.

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Referendum petition

Were standing up for the thousands of middle class San Diegans who welcome tens of thousands of visitors each year, said Laura Spanjian, Airbnbs Public Policy Director for San Diego. Together, we must find a better way to regulate short term rentals other than a ban.

The referendum petitions statement of reasons, though, is signed by Councilman Scott Sherman, who voted against the new regulations last week and has been especially vocal in his opposition, going so far as to call on Mission Beach rental hosts to sue the city.

The main reason I wanted to sign this is I feel the city is in a terrible legal bind with the decision we made, Sherman said. The city has been allowing short-term rentals for quite a long time and collecting transient occupancy fees, and with a stroke of the pen were saying that theyre now no longer allowed. If this were to go to court, we could end up having to come up with a whole bunch of money for taking peoples property, so its a property rights issue.

The council-enacted rules, which govern short-term stays of less than 30 days, will limit such rentals to ones primary residence only for up to six months out of the year. The effect of the action, which came following three years of failed efforts by the city to regulate such rentals, is to outlaw short-term stays in second homes and investor properties throughout the city, including Mission Beach, long a magnet for vacation rentals.

If supporters of the referendum effort can succeed in collecting 35,823 valid signatures (5 percent of San Diegos registered voters) within the next 30 days, the City Council would be required to either withdraw its action or put the short-term rental legislation to a vote of the electorate.

Even if the backers are successful in collecting signatures, there would not be enough time to place anything on this Novembers ballot because the deadline for doing so is this Friday. The next regular citywide election would not take place until 2020.

Still, the effect of a successful effort to certify a referendum would be to put the councils action on hold until the issue is decided by the voters.

Councilwoman Barbara Bry, who led the council effort to put in place restrictive regulations, said Tuesday that the referendum does nothing to alter her position.

I will continue to stand up for San Diego residents and neighborhoods and fight for preserving our housing stock, she said. Our residents expect their elected officials to create policies that protect our sharing economy and residential zoning, while increasing our housing stock, not depleting it.

Sherman said he hopes that if the referendum is ultimately certified the council will rescind its action and eventually consider legislation that is not as restrictive.

But at the end of the day, this will need to go to the voters in some form and let them decide because the politicians keep messing it up, he said.

The short-term rental coalition points out that it had been supportive of a more permissive plan advanced by Mayor Kevin Faulconer that would have allowed San Diego residents to rent out up to two homes on a short-term basis, including their primary residents. Out-of-towners would have been able to apply for one vacation rental license, and the majority of existing rentals in Mission Beach would have been exempted.

Instead, say referendum backers, through backroom deals, hastily-crafted amendments, failure to follow the law, and blatant disregard of constituents, a law passed that will cost San Diego tens of millions of dollars in economic activity and tax revenue.

The councils crackdown on rentals popularized by home-sharing sites like Airbnb has the potential to affect as many as 80 percent of the citys more than 11,000 vacation rentals, according to San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconers office.

The council had been facing enormous pressure over the last several years to take some regulatory action in the face of growing complaints from residents that rotating cycles of vacationers are disrupting their quiet neighborhoods and depleting the supply of long-term housing.

While its hard to know whether San Diego voters would favor strict limitations on short-term rentals, the coalition backing the referendum says it is buoyed by Palm Springs voters rejection in June of a measure that would have banned vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods.

The group is also banking on the California Coastal Commission to relax the restrictions for properties in the coastal zone. The commission has long supported short-term rentals as an affordable alternative to hotel stays. The citys new ordinance cannot go into effect in the coastal communities until the commission has a chance to weigh in.

Opponents are also still weighing potential litigation based on legal concerns an attorney representing Airbnb and HomeAway raised this month in letters sent to the City Council.

Business

lori.weisberg@sduniontribune.com

(619) 293-2251

Twitter: @loriweisberg






But abolishing the sanctions isnt Italys real goal. For one thing, if it wanted, Rome could have vetoed the sanctions barely two weeks ago. For another, Salvini described a veto as a last resort, an invitation for Italys partners to offer a compromise. And he did so with almost six months to spare before the issue must be decided again. What Italy really wants is, first, a loosening of the sanctions  ideally so that Italian pharmaceuticals, automobiles and investment in agricultural R&D can be cleared  and, second, greater burden sharing on migration. EU rules place the onus on processing and resettling asylum seekers on the member state in which they arrive, and Italy has been among the EUs top two entry points for migrants for years. Brussels has proposed and tried to compel member states to set up a quota system to relieve Italy of this strain and more equitably distribute asylum applicants, but some Central and Eastern European countries in particular have resisted. Some of these same countries have the most to fear from a stronger Russia, which they worry could interpret unilateral de-escalation on Europes part as weakness. A threat to strike down Russia sanctions might be the warning they need to get on board.

Before Italy, the governments in Greece and Hungary spoke out against the sanctions. Brussels, led by Germany, whipped both back in line. By overall export value, no EU country has suffered more from Russia sanctions than Germany. Voices among the German business community and even from corners of the government have called for an easing of the sanctions. Yet Berlin knows how important it is to EU members close to Russia, like Poland, the Baltics and Romania, that the bloc presents a united front. (Some of these countries, especially Poland and the Czech Republic, are also important components in the German production chain that Berlin would rather not upset.) Germany lives on exports, and it needs its EU trade partners more than it needs trade with Russia. It is willing to pay the price of lost business opportunities with Russia if it means keeping the EU politically united  and thus economically united.

What makes Italys veto threat different from previous ones is that Italy has the clout to defend itself against the EUs pressure tactics. Italy is the third-largest economy in the eurozone and fourth-largest in the EU. Unlike Greece and Hungary, which are among the top recipients of funding from Brussels, Italy is the fourth-largest contributor to the EU budget. Brussels has toyed with the idea of tying funding to things like rule of law to give it the ability to punish disobedient member states, but against a net contributor like Italy, that is an empty threat. The EU could find an excuse to start legal proceedings against Italy, like it has done against Poland , but as the Polish case shows, this is hardly an effective means of coercion. And theres no way for an individual EU member such as Germany to unilaterally punish Italy with sanctions without blowing up the EUs customs union  a self-destructive measure, to say the least.
At times when she talked about her mother, 57-year-old Elaine wore a look of exasperation, even scorn. She wasnt there for me and my two younger sisters when we were growing up, she said during one of our therapy sessions. She was too busy partying and running around. Our grandmother was our real mother.

Elaine had dealt with her anger toward her mother for years by keeping an emotional and geographic distance, living over a thousand miles away. But then her mother began having small strokes and, as the oldest child, Elaine felt it was her duty to move back to her hometown to take care of her. Her mothers behavior during the caregiving years, though, made her angrier than ever. She orders me around like I owe her something, she said. I dont owe her anything. She didnt raise me.

Clearly, not all family relationships are happy ones. As with Elaine, caregivers who had a bad past with care receivers may have an emotionally fraught present with them, especially if caregiving requires frequent, hands-on contact and unending hours in the tight confines of a parents home. Its true that old wounds may heal if a spirit of consideration, cooperation and even forgiveness takes hold. But it is also as likely that those wounds will be reopened by fresh clashes and pain will be inflamed anew. That would make it all the more challenging for even the best-intentioned caregiver to hang in there with providing care.

Conflicted caregiving: When anger, resentment get in the way 

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How can family caregivers with complicated relationships with loved ones find ways to commit to caring without risking more hurt? Here are some ideas.

Rely on morality, not sentimentality. It is all right to admit that the relationship has been mostly bad rather than romanticize it as the affectionate bond it never was. That means caregivers need to find other compelling reasons to justify the hard sacrifices they are making. If asked why they give care, many will point to their moral and spiritual values  saying, for example, This is what a daughter should do or I believe in helping those who are suffering. Elaine saw caring for her mother as her way of doing Gods work in this world. Those high-minded motivations are often enough to carry caregivers along even in the face of a care receivers renewed hostility.

Dont seek confirmation of the past in the present. We tend to see people as unchanging, even incorrigible, and then interpret their current behaviors through the lens of our past experiences with them. But that may set us up for misunderstanding what is really going on in the present. For instance, if a parent was mean to us when we were children, then we may experience her agitation due to dementia now as more of the same old meanness. It is better to try to separate past from present and regard todays behaviors as largely disease-related symptoms. That may reduce the sting we might feel in response to vile outbursts.

Detach emotionally but practice compassion. Health care and social service professionals balance being caring toward clients with observing them neutrally and not feeling personally aggrieved by what they say or do. It is unrealistic to expect caregivers to fully adopt the professionals stance when dealing with their own family members. Yet, as Elaine eventually realized, there is something in the professionals detachment that can be beneficially imitated. When it dawned on her that her mother was now frail and often confused, she made believe she was her mothers aide, not daughter, providing competent care for her in a sensitive manner even as her mother aimed barbs at her at times. At the end of most of her visits, professional Elaine was able to go home with an unperturbed mind.

Give up hopes for fairy-tale endings. When the relationship between caregiver and care receiver has been historically bad, many caregivers self-protectively approach caregiving with low expectations but have hopes nonetheless for better interactions. Some even dare to hope that theyll finally win a parents love and admiration  what I think of as a fairy-tale ending to transform the bad into good. In my professional experience, such endings are rare. The caregiver who strives too hard for them is usually disappointed yet again. It is better to temper those hopes and accept the relationships long-standing limitations. By the time her mother died, Elaine never received her fair due in appreciation. But she had the solace of knowing shed provided what help she could and had been true to herself through doing the right thing.

Barry J. Jacobs, a clinical psychologist and family therapist, is a member of the AARP Caregiving Advisory Panel and coauthor of the book AARP Meditations for Caregivers (Da Capo, 2016). Follow him on Twitter @drbarryjjacobs and on Facebook.
Two businessmen who were denied a permit to operate a medical marijuana collective in La Mesa are suing the city.

Wayne Alexander Scherer and Rezwan H. Khan of New Origins Management, Inc. filed a civil suit on July 23, alleging the city failed to follow its appeal process and did not provide written documentation explaining its decision.

New Origins was granted a conditional-use permit in March by the La Mesa Planning Commission to open in the La Mesa Medical Plaza on University Avenue near El Cajon Boulevard.

A month later, however, the La Mesa City Council denied the permit after hearing an appeal from the San Diego Center for Children. The council determined the collective would be in violation of a city ordinance that bans dispensaries within 1,000 feet of a minor-oriented facility, such as the nonprofit center that works with children.

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The cannabis business was looking to open at 7339 El Cajon Blvd., Suite C. The Family Wellness Center/East County Outpatient clinic, part of the San Diego Center for Children, takes up the medical centers Suites J and K. San Diego Center for Children helps youngsters struggling with mental, emotional and behavioral issues. The center has a contract with the County of San Diego and works with 27 schools in four school districts in East County.

San Diego Center for Children President and CEO Moises Baron requested the appeal of the Planning Commissions green light, saying he had not been aware of the dispensary until reading about it in The San Diego Union-Tribune.

New Origins owners allege the citys appeal process and procedures were not properly executed, that required substantial admissible evidence was not appropriately shared by the San Diego Center for Children and there was no written documentation explaining the councils decision.

The only written account of the City Councils finding is found in the minutes of the April 24 hearing, which merely memorializes that the City Council voted to uphold the Centers appeal, wrote New Origins attorney Nathan Shaman in the civil suit.

The findings did not specify why the Centers existence as a minor-oriented facility required that the Centers appeal be upheld. They failed to adequately explain the analytical process by which the City Council determined the Center constituted a minor-oriented facility and, more specifically, an after-school program.

Shaman said his clients believe the wellness center does not qualify as a minor-oriented facility and they have relevant evidence that demonstrates that the Centers services do not fit the definition of an after-school program primarily devoted to people under the age of 18.

The evidence, the suit contents, includes a contract between the Center and the County and a contract between the Center and the La Mesa-Spring Valley School District.

Most of what they do is off-site, Shaman said. They have a couple of contracts but all of the services they provide are not done at that office. Not to say they dont do anything at that office  they have family group counseling, but nothing that remotely resembles after-school programming is done at that site. We believe that the San Diego Center for Children has misrepresented the nature of what they do at that location.

Baron, who several years ago helped shut down an illegal marijuana dispensary in the same medical plaza, said he stands by his facilitys work with children. He said the center has followed the protocols that the city required for the appeal hearing.

Baron said he was particularly bothered by the civil suits claim that the center should have objected to the issuance of a permit for the dispensary during the Planning Commission meeting. The city sent out notices to businesses within 1,000 feet of the planned dispensary in advance of the meeting, but Baron said his facility wasnt notified.

We were not aware of it, Baron said. We never received notice. If we had received notice, we would have expressed our concern earlier. The question is, who did the city send it to? The landlord? We are not the landlord, we are a tenant. It was not shared with us. Once we became aware, we immediately contacted the city.

Baron said the city told him there was a published notice in a local La Mesa paper about the Planning Commission meeting that no one from the facility saw.

But thats irrelevant, Baron said. We were able to (appeal) in the time granted. Looking at the information requested for the city of La Mesa, we met the criteria. We provided appropriate and accurate information to the City Council about our activities and the nature of what we do and why we believe we are a child-oriented facility. We have been added to the citys registry.

Shaman said that by the time the evidence is weighed in court, with possible appeals and reviews, another medical marijuana dispensary could move in within 1,000 feet of that location, meaning his clients will be out of luck. And out of more than $250,000, which is what they have spent to open New Origins in La Mesa.

Time is of the essence, Shaman said. Were trying to push this forward. Were open to any potential solution and hope to resolve this as quickly as possible.

karen.pearlman@sduniontribune.com
The line-up of authors has been announced for the second annual San Diego Union-Tribune Festival of Books, scheduled for Aug. 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Liberty Station in Point Loma.

Included will be 30 panels on a variety of topics  contemporary fiction, crime and mysteries, military history, science-fiction, romance, fake news, memoirs, the process of writing  as well as a childrens reading stage, Author Alley, and exhibitor booths.

The festival, which is sponsored by the Union-Tribune in partnership with KPBS, drew an estimated 10,000 people last year. Among the featured speakers this time:

 Brit Bennett, whose debut novel, The Mothers, was a New York Times bestseller. Shell be in conversation with authors T. Greenwood (Rust & Stardust) and Michelle Gable (The Summer I Met Jack).

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 T. Jefferson Parker, the critically-acclaimed Fallbrook crime novelist whose new book, Swift Vengeance, is set largely in San Diego County. He will be on a panel with Matt Coyle (Blood Truth) and Jack Carr (The Terminal List).

 Childrens book authors Kadir Nelson (We Are the Ship, If You Plant a Seed) and Janell Cannon (Stellaluna, marking its 25th anniversary this year).

 Jean Guerrero (Crux) and Kimball Taylor (The Coyotes Bicycle), in conversation about border stories.

 Lynn Vincent and Sarah Vladic, discussing their book Indianapolis: The True Story of the Worst Sea Disaster in U.S. Naval History, currently No. 5 on the New York Times non-fiction best seller list.

Also on the program is the announcement of this years One Book, One San Diego selection. Attendees will be able to visit Author Alley, where dozens of local writers will be selling their books, and see more than 60 exhibitors offering books and a variety of other products and services.

For children, there will be a reading stage and a separate pavilion filled with activities.

And there will be a panel called Fake News, Real Problem, featuring Lora Cicalo and Matthew Hall of the Union-Tribune and Brooke Binkowski, formerly with Snopes, the fact-checking website.

The Fake News panel is free, but the others are ticketed at $3 each, with some of the proceeds going to the San Diego Council on Literacy. Tickets and more information are available at sdfestivalofbooks.com.

john.wilkens@sduniontribune.com
Good morning, and welcome to the Essential California newsletter. Its Tuesday, Aug. 7, and heres whats happening across California:

TOP STORIES

Logging has for decades been among Californias most divisive environmental issues  and the controversy shows little chance of cooling as the Trump administration backs new efforts to thin forests. The federal government is moving to allow commercial logging of healthy green pine trees for the first time in decades in the Los Padres National Forest north of Los Angeles, a tactic the U.S. Forest Services says will reduce fire risk. Its an idea President Trump appeared to endorse in a tweet inaccurately linking wildfire to state water management. Los Angeles Times

-- The Mendocino Complex fire has become the largest blaze ever recorded in California. Los Angeles Times

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-- A fast-moving fire broke out Monday in the Cleveland National Forest, burning more than 4,000 acres and forcing evacuations in two Orange County canyons. Los Angeles Times

-- Dramatic drone images released Monday offered a grim record of the devastation in Shasta County, where the Carr fire destroyed more than 1,000 homes. Los Angeles Times

-- Columnist Michael Hiltziks take: In a strikingly ignorant tweet, Trump gets almost everything about California wildfires wrong. Los Angeles Times

Campus safety

Los Angeles schools are at risk because of inconsistent campus safety measures, thinly spread mental health services and inadequate coordination with other agencies, according to a new report that the city attorney released Monday. Los Angeles Times

Get the Essential California newsletter 

Santa Monica Crossroads forward Shareef ONeal goes up for a dunk during the Roadrunners victory against Birmingham for the Division II regional title on March 17. (Steve Galluzzo / For The Times)

L.A. STORIES

On the horizon: The U.S. Census Bureau stands to undercount millions of Californians across the state in its 2020 survey, an error that could result in less federal funding or the loss of a congressional seat, according to a new analysis by the nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of California. Los Angeles Times

Keeping track: The various scandals engulfing USC. LAist

No interviews: UCLAs Chip Kelly is a private man in a very public role. Los Angeles Times

New man on campus: UCLA announced Monday that it had signed Shareef ONeal, the son of former Lakers great and Hall of Famer Shaquille ONeal, as part of its freshman class. Los Angeles Times

IMMIGRATION AND THE BORDER

#longread: How Trump Radicalized ICE. The Atlantic

Central American turmoil: A political crisis sends Nicaraguans fleeing. New York Times

POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT

Follow the money: Track the millions flowing into Californias race for governor. Los Angeles Times

That big train project: The most ambitious rail project of Californias future is increasingly dependent on the cooperation of the very railroad that shaped the states past  and there are signs their relationship is growing strained. Los Angeles Times

Who is an employee? A new standard for 2 million workers spurs a clash at the state Capitol. Sacramento Bee

CRIME AND COURTS

Crash victims named: Four Contra Costa County residents and a Los Angeles man have been identified as the victims in the crash of a twin-engine plane that left five people dead near a Santa Ana shopping center on Sunday, officials said. Los Angeles Times

Suspect dies: A 77-year-old man accused of fatally shooting a Long Beach Fire Department captain during an emergency call at a high-rise housing complex for seniors has died of a preexisting illness, authorities said. Los Angeles Times

Possible hate crime: A well-known member of the Stanislaus County community was brutally beaten while placing campaign signs, and police are investigating it as a hate crime. CBS 13

Big moves: Leading gig-economy companies including Uber and Lyft are quietly lobbying Californias top Democrats to override or undermine a court ruling that could turn many of their contract workers into employees. Bloomberg

THE ENVIRONMENT

Uh-oh: California farmers could face more restrictions on how they combat crop-eating insects after a state report concluded that one class of pesticide poses a significant risk to bees that pollinate almonds and other crops. Los Angeles Times

CALIFORNIA CULTURE

More data, please: Facebook Inc. wants your financial data. The social media giant has asked large U.S. banks to share detailed financial information about their customers, including card transactions and checking-account balances, as part of an effort to offer new services to users. Wall Street Journal

In theaters this week: The movie Crazy Rich Asians could be a watershed moment for representation in Hollywood. Vanity Fair

Hollywoodland: DreamWorks Animation founder Jeffrey Katzenberg and onetime Hewlett-Packard Chief Executive Meg Whitman have placed an audacious bet on bringing Hollywood-style filmmaking to the world of short-form video for mobile devices. Los Angeles Times

Great story: The LeBron James interview about bicycles. Wall Street Journal

Transformation plans: For the last decade, the transit center that will replace San Franciscos Transbay Terminal has been the subject of grand plans and controversies, including struggles to stay on schedule and squabbles over costs. San Francisco Chronicle

CALIFORNIA ALMANAC

Los Angeles area: Sunny, 95, Tuesday. Sunny, 92, Wednesday. San Diego: Sunny, 88, Tuesday. Sunny, 85, Wednesday. San Francisco area: Sunny, 65, Tuesday. Partly cloudy, 64, Wednesday. San Jose: Sunny, 84, Tuesday. Sunny, 86, Wednesday. Sacramento: Partly cloudy, 98, Tuesday. Sunny, 98, Wednesday. More weather is here.

AND FINALLY

Todays California memory comes from Michael Katz:

In 1954, when I was 7 years old, our family relocated to Southern California from Dayton, Ohio. My parents bought our home in a tiny new neighborhood then being developed on the former 32 Olympics polo field, bordered on the south by Riviera Country Club and on the north by Paul Revere Jr. High. Summers were for camping, for visiting national parks, for exploring the Golden State. One of our most memorable day trips was also one of our first. On one day, we drove first up into the cool pine forests above Tehachapi  where patches of snow still remained  then down to the Mojave Desert, Americas driest region, whence out to the coast to finish the day at the beach. Throughout our daylong road trip, my dad sang the praises of our new home state, of our unique opportunity to have such geographical diversity so nearby. Skiing? Surfing? Camping? How lucky we are! 

If you have a memory or story about the Golden State, share it with us. Send us an email to let us know what you love or fondly remember about our state. (Please keep your story to 100 words.)

Please let us know what we can do to make this newsletter more useful to you. Send comments, complaints and ideas to Benjamin Oreskes and Shelby Grad. Also follow them on Twitter @boreskes and @shelbygrad.
I grew up in pre-Silicon-Valley San Jose. Back then, San Jose was a sleepy, sprawling suburb, better known for its apricot orchards and its proximity to more interesting destinations like Santa Cruz and San Francisco.

My teenage years coincided with the golden age of indoor malls and chain restaurants. I remember how excited my friends and I were when TGI Fridays opened its first restaurant in San Jose, with Tiffany lamps and fried potato skins and an endless menu printed in black and white composition books. So hip.

We had Bobs Big Boy and El Torito, but for me the most magical restaurant of them all was The Magic Pan. The restaurant was a creperie that started in Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco. The original owners sold their restaurant company to Quaker Oats in 1970, and The Magic Pan creperies began popping up everywhere. I fell in love after my first visit. Their crepe-making system combined technology with theatricality as the person making the crepes, surrounded by a carousel set over a gas flame, would dip the bottom of a specialized pan in batter and turn it over the flame to cook. This process was open for the diners to watch, as crepe after perfectly cooked crepe was created.

I became obsessed with crepes. My family was not immune to the allure of Julia Child, and crepes seemed so elegant and fancy, but still accessible to a beginning cook like me who wanted to explore French cuisine. To start, I bought Mable Hoffmans classic Crepe Cookery. With her round, bespectacled face and sturdy homemakers bouffant, she seemed a friendly guide into new territory for me.

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One Christmas, my mother bought me a Nordic Ware pan called a Crepes N Things pan. The pan had a long wooden handle and featured a domed, upside-down nonstick cooking surface that I dipped in crepe batter and then placed on the burner to cook my crepes. I made chicken divan crepes, and crepes filled with sweetened sour cream and fresh strawberries, just like The Magic Pan. I even fulfilled a school assignment requiring me to demonstrate a skill by making crepes filled with my mothers homemade apricot jam for the whole class.

My love affair with crepes slowly faded, replaced in my affections by an unfortunately ever lengthening list of new obsessions, from pesto to sun-dried tomatoes. But sometimes an old love resurfaces, and I have been delighted to see crepes making a comeback, and in particular crepe cakes, sometimes called Gateau de Crepes or Mille Crepe Cakes. Their current popularity is no doubt due to Instagram and Pinterest, as both highlight the dazzling precision and visual beauty of a perfectly stacked gateau.

A slice of Dulce de Leche Crepe Cake. (Eduardo Contreras / U-T)

Made by layering 20 or more crepes with creamy sweet or savory fillings, they look more technically difficult to make than they really are. Crepe cakes are light and delicate to eat, and lend themselves to endless flavor variations. Sweet crepe cakes make an excellent birthday cake for the person who insists they dont like cake, and for the cook who is afraid to bake. Savory crepe cakes can be made ahead of time and refrigerated overnight. They need only 30 minutes in the oven before serving, and theyre festive and elegant enough for the most discerning brunch guest.

Everything old is new again.

Crepes

Crepe batter can  and should  be made in advance. It needs to rest for at least 2 hours for the flour to absorb the liquid and soften, ensuring a delicate and tender crepe. The crepes themselves can be made up to two days in advance, wrapped well and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. This recipe can easily be doubled.

Makes 16 to 18 crepes

3 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

 cup water

3 tablespoons butter, melted

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon sugar

Vegetable oil, for the pan

Combine the eggs, milk, water, butter, flour, salt and sugar, in that order, in a blender. Blend until smooth. Pour the batter through a fine-meshed sieve into a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

Let the batter come to room temperature. Heat an 8-inch crepe pan or nonstick saute pan over medium heat. Brush the pan lightly with vegetable oil. Ladle about 3 to 4 tablespoons of batter into the hot pan and swirl it over the bottom and around the edges of the pan in a thin, even layer. Cook for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, or until the edges of the crepe start to pull away from the pan and lightly brown.

With your fingers, a fork or a small offset spatula, carefully slip the crepe out of the pan and turn it over. Cook the other side for 20 to 30 seconds. Transfer the crepe to a platter or baking sheet. If the crepes seem to be browning too much, reduce the heat slightly.

Repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter, brushing the pan with oil after every 2 or 3 crepes. Cool crepes completely before using. If you are making them ahead of time, wrap well in plastic wrap before refrigerating for one to two days.

Gateau de Crepes Florentine

Savory crepes make a delicious cake, perfect for a light dinner or brunch. This classic variation can be assembled and refrigerated up to a day before baking, making it an especially easy option for brunch.

Serves 6 to 8

16 to 18 crepes (see recipe above)

Spinach-Cheese Sauce

 cup (4 ounces) unsalted butter

2 shallots, finely minced

 cup all-purpose flour

5 cups whole milk

1 bay leaf

2 cloves garlic, crushed

 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1 teaspoon salt

 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

4 ounces grated sharp white cheddar cheese

6 ounces grated Gruyere cheese

1 egg

2 tablespoons olive oil

7 to 8 cups (about 10 ounces) fresh baby spinach

Make the Spinach-Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook just until softened, about 1 to 2 minutes. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste. Slowly whisk in the milk and add the bay leaf. Cook, stirring continuously over medium heat, until the sauce thickens and comes to a boil, about 5 to 7 minutes. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, for another minute. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the crushed garlic, nutmeg, salt and pepper and all but  cup of the grated cheese. Stir until cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Cool the sauce slightly and whisk in the egg. Set aside.

In a large skillet or saute pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the spinach to the pan and cook, stirring and tossing constantly, until the spinach wilts and is cooked through, about 5 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Transfer the cooked spinach to a large sieve and use the back of a spoon to squeeze out any excess liquid. Transfer to a cutting board and finely chop. Reserve 1/2 cup of the sauce and set aside with the reserved grated cheese. Stir the cooked spinach into the remaining sauce.

Butter the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. To assemble the crepe cake, place one crepe on the bottom of the pan and spread with approximately  cup to 1/3 cup of the sauce, spreading in a thin, even layer to the edge of the crepe. Repeat this process, stacking the crepes and spreading them with the spinach-cheese sauce. When the cake is topped with the final crepe, spread with the reserved bechamel sauce and sprinkle with the reserved grated cheese. Butter the sides of the spring-form pan and snap the bottom of the pan in place. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to cook. (crepe cake can be prepared up to one day in advance.)

When ready to bake, preheat oven to 375 degrees. Remove plastic wrap and bake the crepe cake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until it is very hot and heated through, and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool slightly. Remove the sides of the pan and transfer the cake (still on the pan bottom) to a serving platter if desired. Cut into wedges and serve.

Jill OConnors Dulce de Leche Crepe Cake. (Eduardo Contreras / U-T)

Dulce de Leche Crepe Cake



Serves 6 to 8

16 to 18 crepes (see recipe above)

4 cups heavy whipping cream

2 teaspoons vanilla

1 to 2 tablespoons dark rum

Pinch of salt

12 ounces dulce de leche, plus more for serving

2 to 3 tablespoons sugar

Reserve 1 cup of the heavy cream. Combine the remaining 3 cups of the heavy cream with 1 teaspoon of vanilla, rum, salt and the dulce de leche in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel chopping blade.

With one or two short pulses, combine the ingredients, then in a series of short bursts, pulse the cream mixture just until it is very thick and spreadable. The cream should be thick and smooth and hold its shape. (If the cream starts to separate into small curds, it has been over-whipped; transfer the mixture to a large bowl and stir in a few tablespoons of liquid cream to smooth it out.)

Place one crepe on a serving platter or cake plate. Top the crepe with approximately  cup of the whipped dulce de leche cream, spreading in a thin, even coat to the very edge of the crepe. Repeat this process, stacking the crepes and spreading them with the whipped cream. When the cake is topped with the final crepe, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. (Crepe cake can be prepared a day in advance.)

Up to one hour before serving, whip the reserved 1 cup heavy cream with 1 teaspoon vanilla and 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar to stiff peaks. Uncover the cake and spread the top and sides of the cake with the whipped cream. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Cut into wedges and drizzle with more dulce de leche, if desired.

OConnor is a San Diego-based food writer and author of seven cookbooks. Her latest book, Cake, I Love You, was published by Chronicle Books in 2017.
The San Diego Mayors Office is holding a backpack giveaway later this month to benefit military children  and the event is in Imperial Beach.

Darnisha Hunter, San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconers veterans and active duty liaison since 2014, happens to be running for City Council in Imperial Beach, but city officials said the event is a routine part of her job.

On July 25, Hunter promoted the Facebook page Military Youth School Bash and an event of the same name, on her personal Facebook account.

The bash is billed as a backpack giveaway for K-12 students. It advertises food, games and prizes and says veteran and active duty community services will be available.

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A graphic advertising the event features the logos of corporate and community sponsors, such as the American Legion, Palm West Real Estate and Mental Health Systems.

Featured most prominently is the logo for the city of San Diego, and the line Sponsored by Darnisha Hunter, Active Duty & Veteran Liaison.

Hunter, a Republican like Faulconer, said she is doing her job for the city of San Diego. Other politicians in Imperial Beach said the timing of the event raised questions about whether the candidate was using her position with the city of San Diego to boost her profile in Imperial Beach.

Serge Dedina, the Democratic mayor of Imperial Beach, said he was surprised the city of San Diego would sponsor an event in another city, and only learned about it when The San Diego Union-Tribune reached him for comment.

Are we a line item on their budget? he said. I thought cities had boundaries.

Dedina said it was unprecedented for a city to sponsor events outside its own borders.

Normally, you organize events in your own city, he said. My residents dont want me organizing events in San Diego.

A statement from Faulconers office said the city supports a variety of programs and organizations each year and that some of them, such as those supporting the military and veterans, are regional.

The city, through the Mayors Veterans Advocate, regularly supports and participates in events at Camp Pendleton, in Oceanside, in Imperial Beach, MCRD, Miramar, North Island and aboard Navy vessels, said Francis Barraza, the mayors deputy chief of staff for community engagement.

Barraza cited specific events such as a Thanksgiving dinner give-away at Camp Pendleton, a ship commissioning on North Island and change of command ceremonies at facilities around the county.

However, according to Dedina, this is the first time the city of San Diego has organized anything like this in Imperial Beach.

I think its unusual that  for the first time ever  the city of San Diego is hosting an event in (another) city where the person organizing is running for City Council.

Stacy Fulhorst, executive director of the San Diego Ethics Commission, said the city-sponsored event did not violate city code.

There is nothing in the citys ethics ordinance that prohibits Ms. Hunter from properly performing her job as a city employee while also running for elective office, she said in an email. Because this is in fact a city-sponsored event, it is appropriate for her to promote (it) using her position and title.

Ed Spriggs, a Democrat, has been on the City Council in Imperial Beach since 2010 and is running for re-election this year. He said he had also never seen a San Diego-sponsored community event in Imperial Beach.

It may be good for our youth, but the timing is especially interesting so close to the election, he said in an email. I just hope this isnt diverting resources from the San Diego kids for whom Mayor Faulconers program was apparently intended.

Paloma Aguirre, another Democratic candidate for City Council in Imperial Beach, said the veteran and military events only started after Hunter decided to run for council.

She had (another) one in July, she said. Ive never seen that happen.

The July event, also on Hunters Facebook page, was a Veterans Affairs benefits presentation by the San Diego VA, held at the Fleet Reserve on the Silver Strand. Like the backpack giveaway, the city of San Diego logo featured prominently, as did Hunters title and position at the Mayors Office.

In an email, Hunter addressed questions about the event (describing it in the past tense, although it wont happen until Aug. 25).

I am proud of the work I do as a military and veterans advocate for Mayor Faulconer, she said. The backpack giveaway helped 300 plus children of military families get the supplies they need to be successful in school. I will continue to do my job and help as many people as I can throughout the region. My campaign is separate from that work and I have taken every precaution to adhere to all ethical obligations.

The event is at Veterans Park in Imperial Beach at 10 a.m. on Aug. 25.

Contact Andrew Dyer via email or Twitter.
Two people were killed and another was was critically injured Monday night in a car-to-car shooting in which the vehicles then struck a bicyclist and pedestrian, police said.

The shooting occurred around 8:30 p.m. near Farmdale Avenue and Rodeo Road in Baldwin Hills, according to Los Angeles Police Department spokesman Officer Rosario Herrera. A man opened fire from a silver car, striking an occupant of another vehicle , police said.

The shooting victims vehicle then struck a pedestrian, who was pronounced dead at the scene, Herrera said. While attempting to flee, the suspects vehicle slammed into a bicyclist at Farmdale and Exposition Boulevard, Herrera said. The cyclist remained in critical condition at a hospital Tuesday morning, Herrera said.

It was not clear what led up to the shooting, and Herrera could not offer a description of the suspect or the suspects vehicle. Police in the area responding to the sounds of gunfire Monday night found the fatally injured pedestrian.

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Herrera did not know if the shooting victim was the driver of the vehicle that struck the pedestrian. The victims were only described as adult males, Herrera said.

alene.tchekmedyian@latimes.com

Twitter: @AleneTchek

UPDATES:

6:45 a.m. Aug. 7: This article was updated with additional information on the shooting and vehicle crashes.

This article was originally published at 10:40 p.m. Aug. 6.
Modesto police said Monday that they are looking for two men who beat a Sikh man and spray-painted a neo-Nazi symbol on his truck in what theyre calling a hate crime.

Surjit Malhi told KOVR-TV that he was putting up campaign signs for local Republicans at night when two men ambushed him, throwing sand in his eyes before beating him in the head, shoulders and neck on July 31 in Keyes, Calif., about 90 miles east of San Francisco.

Malhi, 50, said the men screamed at him to go back to your country before spray-painting the same message and a white supremacist symbol on his truck. The men were wearing black hoods and had blue eyes, he said.

Im American, 100%, Malhi said. This is my country. If you are a real American and you love America, you should not do that. That is not the American way.

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The symbol the men spray-painted on Malhis truck is the white supremacist version of the Celtic Cross, according to the Anti-Defamation League.

Stanislaus County Sheriff Adam Christianson told the Modesto Bee that the assault is being investigated as a hate crime, saying it was a random despicable criminal act.

Malhi said he believes the turban he was wearing saved his life during the attack because it softened the blows to his head.

Its very scary, said Malhi, who said he has been experiencing headaches and dizzy spells since the attack.

The Sikh Coalition reported an increase in violence and discrimination against Sikh Americans after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, with more than 300 cases reported throughout the U.S. in just one month.

In March, the coalition said there has been another alarming recent spike in hate crimes against Sikhs, with an estimated one a week since the beginning of 2018.

In January, two men were sentenced to three years in prison for the beating of a Sikh man in the San Francisco Bay Area. In March, a Sikh man in Seattle said a man shot him in the arm in his driveway after telling him to go back to his country.

In 2012, a man shot and killed six Sikh worshipers and wounded four others at a Sikh temple near Milwaukee before killing himself.
A 77-year-old man accused of fatally shooting a Long Beach Fire Department captain during an emergency call at a high-rise housing complex for seniors has died, authorities said.

Thomas Kim died early Sunday of a preexisting illness in the jail ward at Los Angeles County USC Medical Center, according to Los Angeles County Sheriffs Deputy Wally Bracks. She did not have details on his condition.

Kim had faced several charges in connection with the June 25 incident: one count of murder, one count of attempted murder of a firefighter, two counts of attempted murder, and one count each of arson of an inhabited structure and explosion with intent to murder.

Prosecutors said Kim set off an explosive device at Covenant Manor in an apparent attempt to kill a female neighbor with whom he had been feuding.

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Capt. Dave Rosa, a 17-year veteran of the Fire Department, and his crew had responded to the predawn call after the blast ignited a fire.

At 4:08 a.m., 19 minutes after they responded, the firefighters were met with gunfire. Rosa was killed. Firefighter Ernesto Torres and an elderly resident of the complex were injured.

alene.tchekmedyian@latimes.com

Twitter: @AleneTchek
The Port Authority is reportedly investigating Century Waste Services, the New Jersey based trash hauler with a terrible safety history, after a dislodged tire killed a civilian NYPD employee.

Last Wednesday around 6:30 a.m. Robert Martinez was on the Gowanus Expressway near Seventh Avenue when the tire of a Century garbage truck, going in the opposite direction, flew off, went over the median and into Martinez's windshield, killing him.

The Port Authority is now examining the company's safety record. It had been cited for many violations by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, including "Wheel fasteners loose and/or missing" and "Axle positioning parts defective/missing" in February. Further, its vehicle "out of service" is 65%, compared to the national average of 20.7%.

The Port Authority has granted Century two contracts, at a combined value of $458,931. The most recent contract for Refuse Removal had a start date of last Wednesday, the day of the accident that killed Martinez.

"In light of the accident that occurred [last] week, the Port Authoritys independent Inspector General will investigate the recent safety record of Century Waste Services, and we will determine whether to keep doing business with the company, Port Authority agency spokesman Steve Coleman told the NY Post.

Council Member Justin Brannan, who represents the part of Brooklyn where the incident happened, said, "Century has a long history of loose wheels, failed inspections, reckless drivers and dangerous crashes. Unfortunately, reckless disregard for safety seems to be the rule, not the exception, among private carters. Fatal crashes are up in this industry, even as Vision Zero is driving fatalities down overall."

The owner of Century Waste, Marc Savino, is the son of Frank Savino, who "agreed to a lifetime ban during the citys 1990s crackdown on organized crime and corruption in the private trash hauling industry," reports ProPublica. A top employee at the Savino family companies was a friend with a member of the Gambino crime family, and used that friendship to obtain waste removal contracts.


The West Hollywood City Council will vote Monday night on a proposal to urge that President Trumps star be removed from the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The resolution, put forth by West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tem John DAmico and Councilwoman Lindsey Horvath, urges the city of Los Angeles -- where the star is located -- and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to remove the marker due to [Trumps] disturbing treatment of women and other actions.

Trumps star on Hollywood Boulevard near Highland Avenue has taken a beating since the 2016 presidential campaign. In late July, the marker was annihilated by a pickax-wielding Austin Mikel Clay, 24, who promptly turned himself in to police. And in October 2016, a man was caught on video attacking the star with a sledgehammer. The start has been spray-painted, stomped on and spat upon.

The West Hollywood resolution doesnt mention the vandalism in its case for removing the star. But a staff report makes several other arguments for doing so, among them Trumps treatment of women, the separation of children from their parents at the U.S. border and denial of findings from the United States intelligence community regarding Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

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The staff report also urges the city of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to revisit qualifications for being included in the Walk of Fame, which features more than 2,500 terrazzo-and-brass stars dedicated to the famous.

Trump received his star in 2007 for his work as producer of the Miss Universe pageant.

Similar calls to remove Trumps star were made when the president characterized Mexican immigrants as rapists and criminals during his presidential campaign.

When activists called for the removal of Bill Cosbys star from the Walk of Fame in 2015 amid numerous allegations of sexual assault, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce refused.

Once a star has been added to the walk, it is considered a part of the historic fabric of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, said Leron Gubler, then the president and chief executive of the chamber. Because of this, we have never removed a star from the walk.

laura.newberry@latimes.com | Twitter: @LauraMNewberry
When a gun-rights group wanted to sound off about a new proposal from Los Angeles City Councilman Mitchell Englander, it went to Twitter to respond to him  only to find it had been blocked.

The Firearms Policy Coalition complained in a letter that the group, along with one of its members, could not reply to a tweet from the councilman about his proposed ban on downloading blueprints for 3-D printed guns.

It demanded that Englander stop blocking them, saying that its members have a right to reply to your tweets and criticize your proposed legislation.

And it pointed to a federal ruling that found it was unconstitutional for President Trump to block his online critics on Twitter. In that case, a judge rejected the argument that Trump was acting as a private individual through his @realDonaldTrump account.

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Englander stopped blocking the group after it contacted him. His spokesman, Colin Sweeney, said it had been done in error sometime before the new proposal was introduced.

Blocking is nothing unusual in Twitter spats, but civil liberties groups argue that it raises 1st Amendment concerns when government agencies or elected officials hit the button. Government officials cannot discriminate against speakers based on their viewpoint, whether online or at City Hall, such groups charge.

If elected officials can block their critics from responding on Twitter, youre giving government officials the ability to manipulate the appearance of the public discussion, said David Greene, civil liberties director for the Electronic Frontier Foundation. People would look at that and say, Everyone agrees!

Brandon Combs, president of the Firearms Policy Coalition, said it was important for the group to be able to engage directly with Englander on Twitter, calling it a public square. If the councilman had kept blocking the group, Combs said, it would eliminate the opportunity for us to engage with him and others.

Other Twitter users have also complained about being blocked by Englander on the online platform.

Torr Leonard, whose handle is @LakeBalboaCA, tweeted about being blocked by Englander nearly four years ago and said he was still blocked as of midday Monday.

Alexandra Nagy, an environmental activist who was involved in mobilizing residents after the Aliso Canyon methane leak, said she had been blocked by Englander for a few years.

And immigrant rights advocate Carlos Amador said he had been blocked for over a year, after criticizing Englander for opposing funding to provide legal aid to immigrants facing deportation. Amador said he still had plenty of ways to speak up about city issues but was upset to be blocked for the mere fact that I raised a critical point.

Sweeney said that in the aftermath of recent court rulings, Englander has blocked people only in response to threats or hate speech. The councilman has also stopped blocking Times reporter David Zahniser, who had been prevented at one point from replying to his tweets.

Sweeney did not immediately respond Monday to questions about how many and which accounts were still blocked by the councilman.

Englander isnt the only L.A. council member to face questions about blocking critics: A few Twitter accounts started circulating the hashtag #blockedbycedillo last year, complaining that Councilman Gil Cedillo had cut them off on the platform.

Cedillo spokesman Fredy Ceja said no one is blocked from @gilcedillocd1, which is run by the council office and labeled as his Official Twitter. But Twitter user Jon Leibowitz said he was still blocked by the politician through another account. Ceja said that account, @gilcedillo, was campaign related and run by a different team.

Mayor Eric Garcetti is not blocking anyone from following his official @MayorofLA account, his spokeswoman Anna Bahr said Monday. However, some Twitter users have complained publicly about being blocked from another account, @ericgarcetti, which states that it is not paid for, sponsored by, or hosted by city of L.A.

Some L.A. council members told The Times they had blocked small numbers of people on Twitter for harassment, spam or inappropriate material. Greene said that government officials may use their Twitter accounts in different ways and whether blocking people poses a 1st Amendment problem can hinge on specific, case-by-case details.

If theyre operating their account as a government official, then the 1st Amendment comes into play, said Brendan Hamme, a staff attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California. And if that is the case, Hamme said, you cant block simply because you disagree with the message.

emily.alpert@latimes.com

Twitter: @AlpertReyes
Eight people were hospitalized early Tuesday morning after they were exposed to a chemical powder at a Valencia property owned by a manufacturing company, officials said.

Emergency personnel were sent to a building in the 28000 block of Franklin Parkway in Valencia shortly before midnight on Monday, where they found 31 people who had been exposed to the chemical, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

Eight people were hospitalized for nausea, vomiting, eye irritation and some coughing, according to Vanessa Lozano, a Fire Department public information assistant. Details about their conditions were unavailable Tuesday morning.

Three other people were treated at the scene and 20 declined treatment, according to Lozano.

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The Fire Department did not say what the substance was, describing it only as a powder, and it was not clear how the people were exposed.

All of those affected worked at the property, which belongs to Esterline Industries, according to Lozano.

The property is home to TA Aerospace Products, according to Esterlines website. Esterline is a manufacturing company that serves the defense and aerospace industry, according to the website.

Calls and emails to a spokeswoman for Esterline were not immediately returned Tuesday morning.

james.queally@latimes.com

Follow @JamesQueallyLAT for crime and police news in California.
A doctor in the UC Irvine School of Medicine pleaded not guilty Friday to charges stemming from allegations that he secretly filmed people in the bathroom of his home in Orange.

Dr. Duc Minh Vu, 33, is charged with 13 misdemeanor counts of disorderly conduct, according to Orange County Superior Court records.

If convicted, he could face up to six years and six months in county jail, according to prosecutors.

Vu is identified on the UC Irvine medical school website as a clinical instructor in the neurology department. UCI Health spokesman John Murray said Monday that Vu is on leave and has no contact with patients.

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It isnt clear how long Vu has been on leave or whether he is being paid during his time off.

UCI was not previously aware of this behavior, which did not take place on university property, Murray said.

Prosecutors allege Vu placed two concealed cameras in the restroom of his home  one that appeared to be a black USB charger and another disguised as a digital clock. More than a dozen guests and roommates were secretly filmed by the cameras, prosecutors said.

One of the people discovered the cameras on Aug. 5, 2017, and called the Orange Police Department, prosecutors said.

Vu is expected in court Sept. 10 for a pretrial hearing.

Susan Wolbarst, a spokeswoman for the California Medical Board, said Vus medical license is unaffected so far because he has not been convicted.

KTLA contributed to this report.

Fry writes for Times Community News.
A 20-year-old Tijuana college student was sentenced Monday in San Diego to more than seven years in federal prison for smuggling nearly 80 pounds of fentanyl into the U.S. last December.

Flavio Diego Rivera Davalos pleaded guilty in March to a drug importation charge, admitting in U.S. District Court that he attempted to drive through the San Ysidro Port of Entry with more than 77 pounds of fentanyl in his car.

Riveras intercepted haul totalled 77.82 pounds  the largest single fentanyl seizure at any port of entry, federal prosecutors wrote in a March trial brief.

According to experts cited in court documents, that amount of the opioid would yield 800,000 potentially fatal (doses) and is valued at about $2.1 million, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Sherri Walker Hobson.

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Federal prosecutors said that on Dec. 9, 2017, Rivera, then 19, was the driver and lone occupant of a 2010 Ford Focus that was searched by Customs and Border Protection officers at the San Ysidro crossing after a drug-sniffing dog zeroed in on the rear of the car.

Rivera, the cars registered owner and a visa holder, told an officer who questioned him that he was traveling to San Ysidro to shop at the Las Americas Premium Outlets, prosecutors said. During the inspection, officers found 31 packages of fentanyl hidden throughout the car  in the quarter panels, rear seats, firewall and a speaker box.

Authorities say trace amounts of fentanyl can be lethal. It is often disguised as other medications or mixed with heroin.

Here, vigilant law enforcement agents took 800,000 fatal fentanyl doses off the streets, effectively preventing defendants deadly fentanyl stash from resulting in thousands of devastating overdoses, U.S. Attorney Adam Braverman said in a statement.

According to court records, Rivera made a deal with drug traffickers that initially saw him transporting drug money from Los Angeles to Tijuana in exchange for cash and a vehicle, which he used for work and college. The traffickers also gave Rivera money to put the car in his name and instructed him on how to minimize suspicion from authorities.

The day before he was caught, Rivera gave his Focus to the traffickers, who concealed the drugs inside the car. The next day he headed toward Los Angeles in a three-vehicle caravan. He believed that the other two cars were also loaded with drugs.

Despite Riveras attorney asking for a 30-month sentence, according to prosecutors, U.S. District Judge Larry Burns sentenced him to seven years and four months in federal prison, saying that while Rivera may have been recruited by others, his role in the operation was significant.

Fentanyl-related deaths in San Diego County have been on the rise since 2012, according to data from the San Diego County Medical Examiners Office.

In June 2017, officers at the San Ysidro Port of Entry searched a vehicle and discovered more than 66 pounds of a powdery substance that tested positive for fentanyl, which was the record until Riveras haul was intercepted.

Last week, CBP officers intercepted a 19-year-old U.S. citizen allegedly attempting to cross the border in San Ysidro with 61 pounds of methamphetamine, 14 pounds of heroin and 11,490 fentanyl pills. Prosecutors said it was the largest-ever seizure of fentanyl in pill form at a U.S.-Mexico port of entry.

Twitter: @Alex_Riggins

(619) 293-1710

alex.riggins@sduniontribune.com
For decades, Cyrus Jeffersons family agonized over whether his murderer would be brought to justice.

Then, 31 years after a bystander found the 20-year-olds bloodied body in a Lemon Grove field, DNA evidence from a single glove led investigators to a likely suspect: Stacy Littleton, Jeffersons supposed friend.

On Monday, Littleton, now 53, was sentenced in El Cajon Superior Court to 26 years to life in prison for the killing, bringing long-awaited closure to the victims family.

Sidra Jefferson-Ivory, one of Jeffersons sisters, said she began having recurring nightmares after her brothers death. She couldnt help but wonder about the man he would have become  had he gotten the chance.

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Unlike Stacy Littleton, he didnt live long enough to be a husband, or a father, Jefferson-Ivory said. His loved ones were left with the thought of what could have been. ...No one should have to die in such a brutal way.

A passer-by found Jeffersons body on Oct. 11, 1986. His shoes, shirt, wallet and car were missing, leading investigators to suspect robbery as the motive.

Detectives quickly zeroed in on Littleton as a suspect. Friends said the two had been together at the Ha Penny Inn in National City early on the day Jefferson died. When Littleton returned later that night, he was alone and in Jeffersons car, prosecutors said.

Detectives suspect Littleton dumped Jeffersons body sometime before returning to the inn.

Shelisi Olivier, another of Jeffersons sisters, said she spoke to her brother the night he was killed.

The last words I had from him that Ill always remember and keep is, I love you sis. Ill talk to you later, she said. I did not realize that would be the last time I would talk to him.

Littleton was eventually arrested in the killing, but the District Attorneys Office didnt feel there was enough evidence for a murder charge. He was released and the case went cold.

Then, last year, a cold-case detective decided to have a glove that had been collected as evidence tested for DNA. Jefferson and Littleton came up as matches.

Littleton was arrested again but this time, he was charged with murder. He was found guilty of the crime, and an allegation that he had personally used a deadly weapon to slash Jeffersons throat.

Stacy has had 30-plus years to go about his life and have a happy life, while Cyrus was cut short, Olivier said in court Monday. It wasnt enough.

During the trial, Littletons defense lawyer argued the DNA located in the glove did not prove who committed the slaying. She also argued that friends who indicated Littleton was responsible were liars and tweakers.

She disagreed that robbery was the motive, saying Littleton had no reason to murder Jefferson for his car, only to turn around and give the vehicle to a woman for sex.

Littleton spoke at the sentencing hearing, telling Jeffersons family members in court that he was sorry for their loss. He added, He was my friend, too.

Littleton was sentenced to one year for the weapon allegation and 25 years to life in prison for first degree murder.

Twitter: @LAWinkley

(619) 293-1546

lyndsay.winkley@sduniontribune.com
As the Trump administration pushes Congress for billions to fund a border wall, a new government oversight report cautioned that officials need to do more cost analysis and documented planning.

The Government Accountability Office report questioned the Trump administrations method for prioritizing where to construct border barriers and said the administration should factor in location-specific cost estimates when deciding where to build. That would make sure that Customs and Border Protection uses its limited resources in a cost-effective way, the report said.

[The Department of Homeland Security] faces an increased risk that the Border Wall System Program will cost more than projected, take longer than planned, or not fully perform as expected, the report says, using the Trump administrations name for current border barrier projects.

Jim Crumpacker of CBP told GAO officials that CBP prioritizes construction locations based on operational need and considers cost when selecting the type of barrier to install.

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CBP is following best practices in evaluating costs, budget, and financial impact, Crumpacker said in a letter to GAO published with the report.

In fiscal 2017 and 2018, Congress has given the Trump administration about $1.6 billion for border barrier construction, mostly for replacement fencing projects. Those barriers will cover at least 80 miles of the southwest border.

The administration has asked for another $1.6 billion in fiscal 2019 for a 65-mile project in Texas.

Fencing-replacement work has already begun in El Centro and San Diego on primary fencing  the barrier closest to Mexico.

More than $250 million of fiscal 2018 funding is supposed to replace 14 miles of a second layer of fencing in San Diego. That construction has not yet begun.

According to the report, it is not yet clear what that new barrier will look like or how much it will cost.

In documentation reviewed by GAO officials, the cost estimate for that 14-mile secondary fence in San Diego is based on a 30-foot concrete barrier.

However, Border Patrol agents need to be able to see through border barriers, the report says, so CBP does not plan to build opaque designs. Six of the eight border wall prototypes at Otay Mesa are opaque, the report notes.

New construction cant look like any of the prototypes because Congress limited funding to designs that were already in use before the border wall prototypes were built. CBP officials told the reports authors that they never intended to select a winning prototype but rather wanted to test them to inform future design strategies.

According to the report, CBPs test teams determined that all of the prototypes would have construction challenges. The four concrete prototypes presented extensive challenges, the most severe.

Two of the non-concrete prototypes presented substantial challenges, and the remaining two had moderate challenges.

CBP officials originally wanted to use a new design for the San Diego project, and in March said that they would use an existing design with bollards  posts that are close together so people cant pass between them. The barrier may be customized with anti-climb features inspired by the prototypes, the report says.

According to the report, CBP officials at first said the San Diego project didnt need rounds of planning review and approval. After conversations with the reports officers, DHS said it would conduct the required reviews by the end of September.

It is misleading and inaccurate for GAO to say that progress is not being documented or to imply that progress is not being tracked, responded CBPs Crumpacker in the letter.

The report also pointed out that DHS didnt require post-construction review of its projects until after most of the current border fencing was already built. CBP told the reports authors that the agency would follow current review requirements to analyze new barriers effectiveness.

DHS spokeswoman Katie Waldman said that the current barriers have already reduced the number of people trying to sneak into the U.S.

Walls have proven to be extremely effective at deterring illegal entries and the smuggling of illicit drugs into the United States, Waldman said. After years of investment in a border wall system, we experienced a roughly 90 percent reduction in apprehensions in the San Diego, El Paso and Yuma Sectors. Americans deserve a secure border that protects our communities and keeps America safe and this administration is doing so by constructing the first border wall in a decade.

The report was released publicly on Monday with some sensitive information withheld.

Immigration Videos On Now New developments in family separation case 9:53 On Now A San Diego woman volunteered as a medic in Texas helping migrant families 2:35 On Now Immigration policy protests in Carlsbad nearly cancelled after permit issue 1:38 On Now When children are separated from their parents at the border, here is where they go next On Now Prospects of a deal for 'Dreamers' may hinge on separating Trump from hard-liners on his staff On Now What is DACA? On Now Border wall prototype contractors selected On Now Video: Ukrainian boxer wins asylum in U.S. On Now 30 apprehended after Border Patrol agents discover tunnel On Now Video: Kurdish diaspora prepare to vote on independence

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kate.morrissey@sduniontribune.com, @bgirledukate on Twitter
The endorsement from President Trump came  as they often do  in a tweet.

On Monday, Trump tossed his support behind Kris Kobach, a national crusader against illegal immigration, in the Kansas Republican gubernatorial primary.

Kris Kobach, a strong and early supporter of mine, is running for Governor of the Great State of Kansas, Trump tweeted. He is a fantastic guy who loves his State and our Country  he will be a GREAT Governor and has my full & total Endorsement! Strong on Crime, Border & Military. VOTE TUESDAY!

Kris Kobach, a strong and early supporter of mine, is running for Governor of the Great State of Kansas. He is a fantastic guy who loves his State and our Country - he will be a GREAT Governor and has my full & total Endorsement! Strong on Crime, Border & Military. VOTE TUESDAY!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 6, 2018

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Kobach, who serves as secretary of state, thanked the president for his support.

Its going to be a huge boost to our campaign, Kobach said during a news conference. I appreciate the president putting his faith and trust in me.

Kobach is locked in a competitive Republican primary on Tuesday with Gov. Jeff Colyer and a handful of other candidates. Polls  which have been limited  show a close race between Kobach and Colyer as the top two candidates.

The endorsement from Trump came of little surprise as Kobach and Trump have been close allies for several years.

Shortly after the 2016 election, Trump appointed Kobach to his immigration policy team. Months later, in May 2017, Trump tapped him to team up with Vice President Mike Pence to head a commission on voter fraud. Both Kobach and Trump alleged  without evidence  that widespread voter fraud took place in the 2016 election.

The commission dissolved in January and last week documents were released that showed the commission produced no evidence to support the presidents claims of rampant voter fraud.

For Kobach, much of his campaign for governor has focused on illegal immigration.

During a bus tour across the state in recent days, Kobach hammered his points on immigration again and again. Among his targets: the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program, which offers protections to young immigrants who came to the U.S. illegally as children.

Kobach said his top priority on Day One as governor would be to sign an executive order requiring state agencies and contractors to use E-Verify to ensure people in the country illegally were not working for the state.

kurtis.lee@latimes.com

Twitter: @kurtisalee
On August 4th, 2016, shortly after being denied parole for the tenth time, 70-year-old John Mackenzie died by suicide. He had spent 41 years in prison on a 25-to-life sentence after fatally shooting a police officer following a burglary. During his time in prison, he had mentored numerous men, earned certificates and degrees, and even started prison programs. But none of that mattered to the parole board, which continually denied him parole based on the nature of his crime.

On Monday morning, more than three dozen advocates gathered outside Governor Andrew Cuomos Midtown office to commemorate the second anniversary of John Mackenzies death after his parole denial, and to demand changes to the state parole board.

Parole commissioners are nominated by the governor and confirmed by the State Senate. They can serve an unlimited number of six-year terms, earning an annual salary of $106,000. The governor has the power to remove any member of the parole board for cause.

Mackenzies suicide led to increased demands for parole reform, including the removal of several parole commissioners with a history of denying parole based on the nature of the crime. In 2017, it seemed that advocates gained a partial victory when the governor declined to reappoint three commissioners. But, over the objections of both criminal justice advocates and 21 state senators, Cuomo reappointed W. William Smith, the board's longest-serving commissioner. (Thirty-two votes were needed to block Cuomos appointment.)

Smith, appointed by then-Governor Pataki in 1996, denied Mackenzie parole during his ninth parole hearing. He also participated in Mackenzies tenth hearing despite a court order prohibiting him from doing so.

Standing outside the governors office on Monday holding white flowers and cardboard tombstones, advocates demanded that the governor fire W. William Smith.

Among the crowd were men who had spent time with John Mackenzie while in prison. Anthony Dixon met Mackenzie in 1993. Even then, he recalled, Mackenzie had already expressed remorse for his actions.

He told me, What I did, I can never take back. Once you take a persons life, you can never come back from that, Dixon told the assembled crowd. How would you like to be judged by your worst act forever?

In contrast, he notes, The parole board has yet to take responsibility for what theyve done. They encourage a system of hopelessness.

James Royall also met Mackenzie in prison. I was the poster child for the parole board, he said, noting that by the time he appeared before the parole board after over 20 years in prison, he had not broken any prison rules for years and even had a letter of support from the prisons superintendent. Still, Royall, who was serving time on a murder conviction, was denied parole twice. He was released in 2013 after his third parole hearing and is now the reentry advocate for Brooklyn Defender Services.

Smith has a long history of humiliating parole applicants, unfairly denying their freedom and defying the law, stated Dave George, the associate director of the Release Aging People in Prison (RAPP) campaign. In at least one hearing, Smith referred to the parole applicant as Pinocchio, according to the hearing transcript obtained by RAPP. In others, he has berated them and concentrated nearly exclusively on the nature of their crime rather than their conduct and accomplishments since then.

Mackenzie is one of 961 deaths in New York State prisons since Cuomo took office. Fifty-five of those deaths have occurred in 2018 through mid-May alone. At the rate were going, there will be more than 1,000 deaths in prison before Cuomo leaves office, said George.

Governor Cuomos office did not respond to request for comment. No staffer from the governors office appeared to meet with advocates during the hour-long rally. (Gothamist and The Appeal published a story yesterday noting that the governor has used his pardon and clemency powers sparingly during his two terms.)

The rally ended with advocates reading the names and ages of those 55 people who died this year. Then they placed their flowers at the glass windows of the governors office.
An aquatic safety center proposed for Mission Bay Bark wont be on the November ballot based on concerns that supporters havent conducted enough community outreach.

City Council members voted 4-2 on Monday night against placing the measure on the ballot, which needs voter approval because attorneys for the city say the aquatic center would be a non-recreational use of dedicated city parkland.

Councilman David Alvarez of Logan Heights said the aquatic center is a worthy project that would bolster the citys nonprofit junior lifeguard program, but voted against placing it on the ballot because he said the community needs more information.

Alvarez said supporters have not shown strong leadership. He also criticized the language of the proposed measure as vague, contending it could allow for-profit groups to control land in Mission Bay Park.

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I think were really being pitted against the wall with this, Alvarez said.

Councilman Mark Kersey of Black Mountain Ranch voted to place the measure on the ballot, saying the safety center would be privately funded and that it couldnt move forward without multiple council approvals in coming years.

Community leaders, however, said they need more details up front about the projects location, size and cost.

John Vallas, executive director of Beautiful Mission Beach, said supporters have avoided engaging community leaders because they want to minimize potential pushback from the public.

Vallas said the city charter section requiring public votes for such projects is designed to protect taxpayers against proposals like the aquatic center, which would limit the publics access to some prime parkland.

Supporters say the aquatic facility would allow a much-needed expansion of the program, which trains 1,200 junior lifeguards per year but typically has a long waiting list.

The Prevent Drowning Foundation, formerly known as the Junior Lifeguard Foundation, plans to pay for the facility and then hand it over to the city.

The program now operates out of the Santa Clara Recreation Center on Santa Clara Point in Mission Beach.

Kersey was joined in support by Councilwoman Lorie Zapf of Bay Ho, whose council district includes Mission Beach.

The council also rejected on Monday a ballot measure proposed by Alvarez that would have increased the citys hotel tax to raise money for homelessness programs.

david.garrick@sduniontribune.com (619) 269-8906 Twitter:@UTDavidGarrick
Five adults were displaced Tuesday when a water leak in a roof led the ceiling to collapse at a Logan Heights area apartment, officials said.

The collapse was reported around 5:50 a.m. at a complex on Julian Avenue near Cesar E. Chavez Parkway, San Diego Fire-Rescue spokeswoman Monica Munoz said.

Crews at the scene found the ceiling in a first-floor apartment had partially collapsed into the kitchen because of a water leak in the roof, Munoz said.

No injuries were reported.

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The American Red Cross was dispatched to assist the five adults displaced by the incident, Munoz said.

An estimate of the damage caused by the collapse was not immediately available. The owner of the property and the city engineer were notified of the collapse, Munoz said.

teri.figueroa@sduniontribune.com

(760) 529-4945

Twitter: @TeriFigueroaUT
A fatal crash on a North County freeway Sunday led authorities to shut down the busy artery for 14 hours because of a large debris field created by the crash as well as questions about what exactly happened, an official said Monday.

At least two of the drivers may have been intoxicated.

This particular crash had some aspects we needed to look much closer at, California Highway Patrol Officer Mark Latulippe said. We are looking at two drivers that are DUI. We have a fatality.

Latulippe said the department has to make sure we get it right should someone be criminally charged in the case.

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The chain-reaction crash happened about 2:15 a.m. when a 33-year-old woman lost control of a Toyota Corolla on westbound state Route 78 west of Sycamore Avenue in Vista.

The Corolla slammed into the center divide. An approaching Toyota Scion XB plowed into the disabled Corolla.

Then, with both cars blocking all three freeway lanes, a Toyota Scion XC came upon the wreckage and struck the Scion XB.

At some point, the Corolla driver was thrown from her car and into freeway lanes. She died at the scene.

The Scion XB driver sustained major injuries. The three people in the Scion XC suffered minor injuries.

Latulippe said both Scion drivers are suspected of alcohol or drug impairment at the time of the crash.

The freeway was shut down to assist the injured people, and it stayed shut through the investigation.

When the sun came up and officers saw the size of the field of debris and skidmarks, they called in the Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team, Latulippe said. The team has specialty equipment that can take more precise measurements at the scene of a collision.

Hundreds of feet of skid marks, the magnitude of the amount of stuff they had to collect  it took a while, Latulippe said.

Vehicles were diverted off the freeway at Sycamore. At one point, traffic on SR-78 reportedly had backed up more than six miles, as far as Nordahl Road on the east end of San Marcos.

The freeway  which serves as a primary route in North County  was reopened by 4:30 p.m. Sunday.

teri.figueroa@sduniontribune.com

(760) 529-4945

Twitter: @TeriFigueroaUT
Two National City councilwomen released a joint statement over the weekend urging patience by all in the death investigation of Earl McNeil, a move that drew criticism from both social justice organizers and fellow council members.

McNeil was arrested after showing up at the National City Police Department on May 26 and later stopped breathing while with paramedics, police said. He died days later, sparking weeks of protests at City Council meetings where activists have repeatedly called for the release of body-worn camera footage of McNeils interaction with officers as well as the resignation of police Chief Manuel Rodriguez.

The weekend statement from Councilwomen Mona Rios and Alejandra Sotelo-Solis  which also aimed to explain the process for releasing information about the case to the public  quickly drew the ire of their council colleagues and organizers calling for transparency in the case.

Both sides believed the statement was politically motivated ahead of Novembers elections. Rios is running for re-election to the council, and Sotelo-Solis is running for mayor.

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On Tuesday, Councilwoman Mona Rios refuted those claims, saying their Sunday statement was similar to one they put out about the case initially and was meant to keep the public informed.

Sotelo-Solis expressed similar sentiments, saying she and Rios have, from the beginning, expressed confidence that the investigation will lead to the truth, while also supporting the communitys call for transparency.

We reiterated our support for the police department, for the investigative process and the First Amendment rights of people, she said Tuesday. Its unfortunate that some of my colleagues chose to make this political.

The most recent statement said in part that there is nothing to indicate any misconduct on behalf of law enforcement in the death of McNeil, who reportedly suffered a heart attack while being checked out by paramedics. Officials with the Medical Examiners Office told the family McNeil had drugs in his system, police and a family lawyer said.

The last few weeks since the death of Mr. Earl McNeil have proven to be very difficult for all, with the public demanding answers and the City of National City making efforts to find those answers, the councilwomen said in the joint statement. To that end, we write to encourage and highlight the importance of patience by all; to express our belief in the investigative process; and to ensure that the truth will be revealed with regards to the incident between Mr. McNeil and the (National City Police Department).

Rios and Sotelo-Solis, the only two women on the council, had previously called for more transparency in the investigation into McNeils death and had expressed at least some solidarity with the activists who have shut down or disrupted four straight National City council meetings.

In Sundays statement, they described themselves as supporters of community-centered law enforcement.

But Mayor Ron Morrison questioned their timing.

They decided to come out with this statement now  only because theyve taken a bunch of flak for siding with these outside protesters, Morrison said in a phone interview Monday evening.

Vice Mayor Albert Mendivil said in a phone interview that Rios and Sotelo-Solis are desperate politicians who are not fooling anyone.

Councilman Jerry Cano said he, the mayor and the vice mayor have been making these same comments meeting after meeting and getting booed and cursed at for it.

Its good to see the two other councilmembers finally following our lead, whatever their motives are, Cano wrote in an email.

Tasha Williamson, one of the organizers behind the council meeting protests, said the joint statement from Rios and Sotelo-Solis was a tool  theyre using to sustain political grounding.

Alejandra and Mona missed the mark, Williamson said. We do not have faith in the process theyre talking about.

The statement was released while the National City council is in recess, with its next meeting not scheduled until Sept. 4. The release of the statement is also just the latest twist in the case, which has seen protesters arrested at three council meetings, law enforcement responding to the protests in riot gear, and the revelation last month that McNeil was a paid law enforcement informant.

McNeils work as an informant  he was paid at least $30,000 for his assistance in a double-homicide case  has unclear implications in his death, though it has been mentioned by several activists at prior city council meetings.

According to court records and court testimony, McNeil was also a Skyline gang member who suffered from paranoid schizophrenia and experienced delusions.

Twitter: @Alex_Riggins

(619) 293-1710

alex.riggins@sduniontribune.com
A tow truck driver was seriously injured early Tuesday when he was struck by a passing car while loading a disabled vehicle on state Route 94 in Spring Valley, a California Highway Patrol officer said.

The collision happened about 3:15 a.m., as a Chrysler Sebring was exiting the southbound side of the freeway at Jamacha Road, Officer Travis Garrow said.

The tow truck driver was on the shoulder of the Jamacha off-ramp, loading a disabled vehicle. He was standing on the left side of the truck

The Chrysler plowed into the left side of the truck, also striking the tow truck operator, Garrow said.

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The operator, a 37-year-old man from Adelphi, Md., sustained major injuries and was taken to a hospital.

The 54-year-old Spring Valley man driving the Chrysler was not injured. He stayed at the scene and was cooperative, Garrow said.

Neither drugs nor alcohol appears to have played a role in the collision, he said.

teri.figueroa@sduniontribune.com

(760) 529-4945

Twitter: @TeriFigueroaUT
Whenever Paul Manafort needed Richard Gates, he seemed to be there for him.

Gates helped Manafort run his consulting business in Eastern Europe. He served as Manaforts deputy on Donald Trumps presidential campaign, carefully steering the candidate through the fractious Republican National Convention.

And when Manafort needed help hiding his income from tax collectors or fraudulently obtaining bank loans, prosecutors say Gates was there too. He even allowed Manafort to falsely blame him for $300,000 in overdue bills to help boost his credit score, according to an indictment.

On Monday, Gates took on a new role  a key witness in prosecutors case against the former Trump campaign chairman for tax evasion, bank fraud and conspiracy.

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Were you involved in criminal activity? asked Greg Andres, one of the prosecutors working for special counsel Robert S. Mueller III.

Yes, Gates responded from the witness stand in the Alexandria, Va., courtroom.

Gates admitted to larceny and lying of his own as well. As prosecutors asked questions designed to preempt lines of attack that defense attorneys could use to undermine his credibility, he admitted that he stole from Manafort even as he did his bidding.

Yes, he said, he had inflated expense reports to siphon off several hundred thousand dollars to pad his income from the firm as the two men worked for Ukraines then-president, Viktor Yanukovych. He had lied in a deposition, he testified. He even admitted to staying out past his court-mandated curfew by 15 minutes.

But, he insisted, it was Manafort who orchestrated the multiple frauds at the heart of the current case. And although he had lied before, he had every reason to be telling the truth now, he said.

Andres raised the issue by asking him whether hes aware what will happen if he lies during the trial.

I lose all the benefits associated with the guilty plea that he entered in February, Gates said, meaning he could once again face the criminal counts that prosecutors had agreed to drop  charges that could have put him behind bars for many years.

Follow the latest news of the Trump administration on Essential Washington 

The trial is in its fifth day, but Gates testimony may mark its pivotal moment. Not only has he already handed over documents, phones and computers, hes providing inside information on Manaforts alleged scheme at a level of detail that no other witness has.

Meanwhile, defense lawyers have centered their case on Gates, telling the jury that he, not Manafort, is the person to blame for the frauds alleged by the special counsels office. During opening statements, defense attorney Thomas Zehnle said Manafort was guilty only of placing his trust in the wrong person.

Gates testimony also marks a turning point for the special counsels office. Its the first time Muellers team has used in court the information it got through a plea deal.

Gates was first indicted for financial crimes alongside Manafort in October, but those charges were dropped when he pleaded guilty to conspiracy and lying to investigators. The deal required him to cooperate with prosecutors.

Michael Flynn, Trumps former national security advisor, and George Papadopolous, a foreign policy advisor during the campaign, have also pleaded guilty and agreed to help the special counsels office. So far, theres been no public disclosure of what information theyve provided. Papadopolous is scheduled to be sentenced in September; sentencing has not been scheduled for Flynn or Gates.

The spectacle of Gates testifying against his former business partner and mentor was a dramatic moment in a trial that has focused on financial records and tax law.

Freshly shaved and wearing a trim blue suit, Gates eyes flashed only briefly toward the defense table as he spoke. He described his former colleague as Mr. Manafort.

Manafort stared directly toward Gates, who he first encountered more than three decades ago when Gates was an intern at his lobbying firm and a guest at his Christmas party.

Rick met Paul early in his career, and stayed with him, said Michael Caputo, a political consultant who also worked on Trumps campaign. Until today.

More fireworks are expected on Tuesday, when Manaforts attorneys are expected to cross-examine Gates.

Before that happens, however, prosecutors plan to have Gates testify for another three hours, the longest time theyve had any witness on the stand.

The duration of the questioning could prove to be a point of contention with U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III, who has repeatedly prodded prosecutors to speed up their case and eschew what he considers to be extraneous information.

As Andres tried to establish how Manafort was paid by a cadre of Ukrainian businessmen who sought to benefit from the political regime, Ellis described the issue as irrelevant to the question of whether Manafort hid money from tax collectors.

When Andres tried to explain, the judge barked, Next question.

Once the jury was dismissed for the day, Andres challenged Ellis demands to more narrowly focus their case, asking him to point to any piece of evidence that he feels was irrelevant.

I dont have to give you an example, Ellis thundered. I want you to shorten.

He also admonished Andres to make eye contact with him  Im up here, he said at one point  but softened his tone as he ended proceedings for the day.

This is a stressful time, Ellis said.

Gates testified for about an hour on Monday, delivering calm, succinct answers while speaking directly to the jury. It was a choreographed display probably rehearsed during what Gates said were about 20 meetings with prosecutors to prepare for taking the stand. His lawyer, Thomas C. Green, who negotiated the plea deal, sat in the back of the courtroom.

Many of the questions were intended to establish that Manafort, not Gates, had run the fraud.

During previous testimony, accountants who prepared Manaforts taxes said Gates provided them with inaccurate and fraudulent information.

On Monday, Gates said he lied to them at Mr. Manaforts direction.

He said the offshore bank accounts  already established earlier in the trial as the source of millions of dollars for Manaforts clothing, cars and home renovations  held Mr. Manaforts money.

And when asked about his decision to plead guilty to conspiracy, Gates was unambiguous about who else was involved in the scheme.

Mr. Manafort, he said.

He also complimented his former boss skill as he described the work that he and Manafort did on behalf Yanukovych, who was Ukraines president from 2010 to 2014.

Manafort helped bring Yanukovych back from the proverbial political dead, Gates said.

Hes probably one of the most politically brilliant strategists Ive ever worked with.

chris.megerian@latimes.com

Twitter: @chrismegerian
Paul Manaforts attorneys mounted a concerted effort Tuesday to beat back criminal charges against President Trumps former campaign chairman, hammering again and again at the credibility of Richard Gates, Manaforts former business partner and confidante.

Gates faced a withering cross-examination by Manaforts lawyers, who insisted that he had told so many lies that he could not keep track of them all. They portrayed him as an admitted embezzler who had siphoned money from Manaforts company and who could not be trusted.

At one point, they accused the governments star witness of living a secret life in London, where he had conducted an extramarital affair and kept an apartment for their trysts.

After all the lies youve told and all the fraud youve committed, you expect the jury to believe you? Kevin M. Downing, one of Manaforts lawyers, demanded.

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Yes, Gates responded. Im here to tell the truth. I took responsibility for my actions.

In two days of often-riveting testimony, Gates told the court that he had helped Manafort use a shadowy network of offshore shell companies and bank accounts to avoid paying millions of dollars in U.S. taxes. He also admitted to stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manaforts company while they were advising politicians in Ukraine.

Gates worked for Manafort for years and was indicted with him for multiple financial crimes in October as part of special counsel Robert S. Mueller IIIs investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election and other crimes. Its the first trial on charges brought by Mueller.

The financial charges against Gates were dropped after he agreed to cooperate with prosecutors in February, and pleaded guilty to conspiracy and making false statements. He is expected back on the witness stand on Wednesday.

Prosecutors are a little more than half through presenting their case against Manafort for tax evasion, bank fraud and conspiracy.

Although defense lawyers also grilled previous prosecution witnesses, it was clear Tuesday that they had saved their fiercest attacks for Gates in hopes of convincing the jury that he could not be trusted.

When did you first start providing false and misleading information to the office of special counsel? Downing said as he began about two hours of cross-examination.

At another point, when Gates stumbled over a question about his statements to the special counsels office, Downing pounced. Have they confronted you with so many lies that you cant remember it? he asked.

Gates sought to maintain the same calm tone he had used with prosecutors, even when the cross-examination dipped into salacious territory. Gates barely glanced at Manafort, who stared in his direction most of the day.

There was another Richard Gates, isnt that right? A secret Richard Gates? Downing asked. He added, As part of your secret life, did you maintain a flat, is that what you call it in London?

Gates admitted there was a period of life when I had another relationship.

Downing also suggested that Gates stole money from Trumps inauguration committee, where he served as deputy chairman, as well as from Manaforts company.

Gates did not deny it.

I dont recall, he said. Its possible.

It was clear from the trials first day that Gates would be crucial to Manaforts legal defense. In opening statements to the jury, his lawyers had talked about pinning the alleged crimes on Gates.

But Gates also has been key to the special counsels office, a co-conspirator who prosecutors say could give a first-hand account of Manaforts alleged elaborate tax evasion and bank fraud scheme.

Gates has served as a decoder of documents for the jury, explaining which initials referred to which Ukrainian businessmen who had funded Manaforts lucrative consulting work there. And since Gates often had communicated directly with Manafort, he could testify to his boss intentions.

Did you provide false information to a bank? asked Greg Andres, one of the prosecutors working for Mueller.

Yes, Gates replied.

Did Manafort know?

Yes.

How did you know?

Because he requested certain information to be changed.

Gates testimony illustrated the vast machinery that he and Manafort allegedly used to evade taxes. They worked with a lawyer in Cyprus, Kypros Chrysostomides, nicknamed Dr. K, who arranged shell companies and other entities there. Later, Gates helped set up new accounts in the Caribbean.

These shell companies did nothing except funnel money, Gates said, and some of the cash was used to pay for Manaforts lavish lifestyle, while avoiding taxes.

Did they sell any products? Andres asked.

No.

Did they have any employees?

No.

Gates said Monday that he didnt socialize with Manafort outside of work, but the two men did not appear to have a typical employer-employee relationship.

Manafort often drafted Gates to help manage his personal financial affairs, dealing with accountants and arranging payments for his luxury lifestyle  one that involved multiple homes, expensive wardrobes and high-priced carpets.

He even relied on Gates to convert documents between Word and PDF formats. In October 2016, Gates said he sent a profit and loss report for the first half of that year, which showed a net loss of $600,000.

How do I convert into non-PDF doc Word document? Manafort asked Gates in an email.

Gates knew that meant Manafort was going to make some change to it, he said. He sent Manafort a Word version, and Manafort soon returned the document, which showed a net income of about $3 million.

Rick, you are the quarterback, Manafort wrote in one email to Gates. All information needs to go through you.

But Manafort could be scathing when he thought Gates fell short. He sent Gates an email in April 2015 when he was surprised by the size of his tax bill.

Rick, I just saw this, he wrote. WTF? How could I be blindsided like this? You told me you were on top of this. We need to discuss options. This is a disaster.

Laughter broke out in the packed courtroom.

Follow the latest news of the Trump administration on Essential Washington 

UPDATES:

5 p.m.: The story was updated with additional details from the trial.

The story was originally posted at 12:50 p.m.
Back in the summer of 2015, we were riveted by the unforgettable prison break at Clinton Correctional Facility in Dannemora, NY. The story had everything: illicit romance, a daring escape, frozen hamburger meat! Now, that highly dramatic breakout and subsequent manhunt is coming to Showtime as an eight-episode limited series, Escape at Dannemora, starring Benicio del Toro, Paul Dano and Patricia Arquette (and directed and executive produced by Ben Stiller). And you can watch the first trailer for it below.

Del Toro plays convicted murderer Richard Matt, who was serving a 25-year sentence at Clinton for killing and dismembering an upstate businessman at the time of the breakout. His partner-in-crime in the breakout, David Sweat, is played by Dano. Matt and Sweat, who had been convicted of killing a NY state sheriff's deputy, concocted an elaborate plan to break out of the prison. Aiding them was Tilly Mitchell, played by Arquette; Mitchell supervised the prison tailor shop, where she was seduced by Matt, who she later said had "complete control" over her at the time.

Mitchell later confessed that she snuck tools, gloves, glasses with lights on them, etc. to Matt and Sweat (some of these tools were hidden in the aforementioned frozen hamburger meat), which enabled the pair to cut through their cell's steel walls, traverse the catwalks in the prison's infrastructure, hack into a steam pipe that wasn't in use, and finally climb out through a manhole on the other side of the prison walls on June 6th, 2015.

"I believe I helped inmate [Richard] Matt and inmate [David] Sweat escape because I was caught up in the fantasy," she said in her confession. "I enjoyed the attention, the feeling both of them gave me and the thought of a different life." She also confessed to having sexual contact with Matt on multiple occasions, and giving him naked photos of herself.



David Sweat, left, and Richard Matt; Sweat was serving a life sentence for killing a sheriff's deputy in Broome County while Matt was serving 25 years for killing his boss

Matt & Sweat were on the lam for weeks afterwards, until Matt was fatally shot during an attempted carjacking and Sweat was captured. Sweat later claimed that he was the mastermind behind the plot, which involved five months of planning the escape with Matt; on top of that, he claims they did a test run the night before the escape.

Escape At Dannemora premieres on Showtime on Sunday, November 18th at 10pm ET/PT. Here's Showtime's description of the show:
Sadie Alvarado had a laugh and a smile to brighten up a room and wanted to be a pediatric nurse, her mother said.

The body of the Muscatine, Iowa, resident was found Sunday, and her boyfriend was charged with leaving the scene of a death accident.

Alvarados body was found during the search for Mollie Tibbetts, the University of Iowa student who remains missing after vanishing on July 18.

We know she isnt Mollie Tibbetts! Her name is Sadie Alvarado! Stephanie Lerma posted on Facebook. A beautiful, caring, charismatic Iowa girl who was loved by many and was a friend to many.

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Sadie Alvarado was 20. (Facebook)

Thank you for being my forever best friend, pal Bailey Miller wrote. Thank you for the unconditional love and support. Thank for you being my other half. I love you so so much. Theres not a day thatll pass that I dont miss you. I promise Dixie Chicks and Busch Light will forever be our thing.

Alvarados mother Brandy Martinez said in an interview with KWQC that her daughter had a heart of gold.

Damian Hamann (Handout)

She was a very smart, funny and beautiful young lady who wouldve turned 21 on September 25, Martinez told KWQC.

Alvarado was found in a ditch in Lee County. Boyfriend Damian Hamann told cops that Sadie had jumped out of his vehicle early Sunday after they had argued. He said he drove to his home in Morning Sun before returning to Lee County in the afternoon to look for her.

Authorities allege that the 28-year-old Hamann failed to immediately stop his vehicle at the scene of an accident or did fail to return to the scene of the accident which resulted in the death of a person, according to the criminal complaint.
Its been more than 17 months since California Supreme Court Justice Kathryn Mickle Werdegar announced that she was retiring as of Aug. 31, 2017. As the San Francisco Chronicle reported, Werdegar  a moderate judge appointed by Republican Gov. Pete Wilson  gave Gov. Jerry Brown plenty of advance notice in the hopes that he would choose a replacement who could join the seven-member high court, keep it at full strength and prevent major issues from going undecided because of 3-3 tie votes.

Lacking a permanent member of the court is disruptive, Werdegar cogently told the Chronicle.

Yet, without explaining his thinking, Brown has chosen no one to replace her. The assumption among political observers is that the governor wants to avoid having his newly chosen justice face a public confirmation vote in November, as would have been required if his nominee was approved by Aug. 30, the final day candidates can be put on the fall ballot. Even if Brown announced his choice this week, its unlikely the nominee could be reviewed and advanced by Aug. 30 by the state Commission on Judicial Appointments, a three-member panel led by Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye. That means the governors nominee, if approved by the commission, would face a public confirmation vote in 2022.

But this explanation should satisfy no one. Browns history of having three of his high court picks swept out of office by voters in 1986 should not lead him to try to delay Californians from being able to weigh in on his picks. There was nothing nefarious about the ouster 32 years ago of state Justices Rose Bird, Joseph Grodin and Cruz Reynoso. It reflected the fact that the three had overturned dozens of death penalty convictions on flimsy grounds, reflecting their personal views  not the Legislatures or voters  that the death penalty is an abomination. No other state justices have been removed since 1934, when voters amended the state Constitution to mandate that appointed appellate judges be reconfirmed periodically by voters.

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This history should have led Brown to nominate a highly qualified judge, law professor or attorney long ago and then to assume voters would give the individual a fair chance. Instead, the governors machinations inevitably have produced speculation that he wants to make a radical choice who will join with his other three confirmed nominees (Mariano-Florentino Cuellar, Goodwin H. Liu and Leondra R. Kruger) to create a majority on the seven-member court to advance a specific policy agenda  one that couldnt make it through the Legislature or gain passage in a ballot initiative. Its worth noting that all three voted in June 2016 to allow Brown to gut and amend what became Proposition 57 to change its focus from juvenile justice reform to changes in pardon procedures  without the normal vetting. This decision was disastrous. The amended ballot measure, which voters approved in November 2016, classified several sex crimes, including rape of an unconscious person, as nonviolent, and thus subject to early parole consideration. This debacle should have chastened the governor  not made him ready for new machinations involving the high court.

Of course, its possible that theres less here than meets the eye. Browns three confirmed nominees have hardly seemed inclined to radicalism. And as the Chronicle noted, Brown was also responsible for the second longest high court vacancy in 2014 and 2015, when he took nine months to replace retired Justice Joyce Kennard with Kruger. Perhaps the governor has been quietly interviewing candidates and will announce his decision soon.

Last month, he urged the court to hold a hearing on a disputed pension reform of his. The court agreed to review that case in April 2017, a month after Werdegars announcement she was leaving. Browns inaction speaks louder than his words. Whatever he is thinking, Brown should explain it.

Twitter: @sdutIdeas

Facebook: San Diego Union-Tribune Ideas & Opinion
Overachiever doesnt begin to describe 12-year-old Carlos Santamaria Diaz, who drew international buzz this month after becoming the youngest biomedical physics student ever admitted at Mexicos National Autonomous University over a period of nearly 100 years.

Just dont call him a genius.

I am not a genius, Im a happy boy, the university tweeted in Spanish last week. Carlos Santamaria, with 12 years of age, is already an undergraduate #AlumnoUNAM. Welcome.

The story of Santamaria Diaz began to circulate beyond his countrys borders Friday when he faced a gaggle of Mexican journalists captivated by his story. At a press conference posted to YouTube, the young Santamaria Diaz can be seen spreading over a blue couch and answering questions from a crowd of reporters.

La Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico invita a la conferencia de medios con Carlos Antonio Santamaria Diaz, alumno de 12 anos que cursara la carrera de Fisica Biomedica en la ...

News of a university admitting a pre-teen into a college-level program is rare but not unprecedented. Plenty of other bright young minds have drawn praise and astonishment by starting college around the age of 12.

But Santamaria Diaz is the first 12-year-old to go to Mexicos National Autonomous University, or UNAM, in its century-long history, the Associated Press reported.

So, how did such a young boy become enrolled at the university, to study biomedical physics, no less?

Here are five things to know about Santamaria Diaz.

How did he get admitted to the university?

Santamaria Diaz was admitted to the university after he passed its entrance exam, the Associated Press reported. Three years earlier at the age of 9, the boy was enrolled in a special university program where he took and aced three biochemistry and biology courses, politics blog Animal Politico reported.

How was his education any different?

On top of taking the three college courses, Santamaria Diaz remained enrolled in grade school. The Associated Press reported that his parents say he showed advanced reading skills at the age of 3 and later taught himself calculus and physics from the internet.

Why study biomedical physics?

Santamaria Diaz said hes interested in finding cures for rare diseases and as the AP report showed he has some deep thoughts about the power of knowledge.

What interests me is the power to destroy ourselves, to destroy life itself, he said. If youre alive, how could you not be interested in how you function? To me, science is a double-edged weapon. It is the key to either advancement or to destruction, or perhaps for oppression.

What do his parents say about all this?

His parents, Arcelia Diaz and Fabian Santamaria, told Mexican news outlets that they are not worried about their son adapting to a university environment with so many older students.

Truth is that he adapts very well in whatever environment hes in, his mother, Arcelia Diaz said. When hes with other kids, he adapts to them; when hes in the university, he also adapts to it.

Is he a genius?

Though he specifically said he doesnt like using that word to describe himself, his father Fabian Santamaria told El Pais newspaper that he has a gift for processing information.

As part of his university entry exam, Santamaria Diaz was interviewed by chemistry doctor Eduardo Rodriguez de San Miguel who, according to El Pais, took just 15 minutes to admit him.

I was impressed, Rodriguez said. I asked him about the generic aspects to determine his aptitude. Its not that he is a genius who knows everything but he focuses his attention on what interests him. When I asked him about his interests, he immediately brought up chemistry topics.

Email: luis.gomez@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @RunGomez

Read The Conversation on Flipboard.
President Donald Trump has finally tweeted about the wildfires ravaging so many parts of Northern California with two tweets about  Californias long-debated water management issues.

The massive Mendocino Complex fire  which covers Colusa, Lake and Mendocino counties  has grown to become the largest wildfire in state history at nearly 290,692 acres, and the Carr Fire in Shasta and Trinity County has burned more than 167,113 acres to rank 12th on the all-time state list. Both fires continue to grow.

Seventeen wildfires in all are burning across California as more than 14,000 firefighters work to contain them. Yet Trumps tweets focused on water management and environmental policy.

Read them below.

Whats he talking about? Is what he said correct?

Heres what we know, and whos saying what.

1. What fire officials are saying

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection didnt respond directly to the president, but debunked the idea that firefighters dont have access to enough water.

We have plenty of water to fight these wildfires, but lets be clear: Its our changing climate that is leading to more severe and destructive fires, Daniel Berlant, assistant deputy director of Cal Fire, told The New York Times.

Deputy Cal Fire Chief Scott McLean also weighed in on Monday, releasing a statement saying, The Carr fire has Whiskeytown Lake, Shasta Lake and Trinity Lake just to name a few water sources. The Mendocino Complex is next to Clearlake Lake. The current weather is causing more severe and destructive fires.

2. What experts are saying

Several researchers and academics well versed in California water and fire issues tried to put the puzzle together.

The idea that there isnt enough water is the craziest thing in the world, says Peter Gleick, president emeritus of the Pacific Institute for Studies in Development, Environment, and Security in Oakland. Theres absolutely no shortage.

A climate and wildfire researcher at the University of California-Merced said he couldnt make sense of the presidents reference to an untapped water supply.

We do manage all of our rivers in California, and all the water is allocated many times over. So Im not sure what he was recommending, LeRoy Westerling told the San Francisco Chronicle.

Rob Stutzman, Republican strategist based in California tweeted that Trump has a low water IQ.

The notion that somehow more water would be mitigating or better in fighting these fires is just mind-boggling, he added to told POLITICO on Monday. It doesnt even show an elementary understanding of water policy.

3. What politicians are saying

Heres where this starts to make some sense. Experts pointed to recent political debates having to do with the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta as the likely source of Trumps opinion.

Californias water management issues are historic and wide-ranging, but one of the latest  a proposal to increase flows from the San Joaquin River to protect the states dwindling salmon population  was on Trumps radar even ahead of the 2018 wildfire season beginning. In the last week of 2018, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation announced a plan to re-assess the Central Valley Water Project, citing state and federal regulatory actions and saying that it wants to look for alternatives to maximize water deliveries.

Californias Central Valley is the states agricultural heart where water is always on the minds of politicians, especially Republicans who actively oppose the water boards focus on salmon.

Fresno City Councilman Steve Brandau has even rented billboards in the city addressed to the president urging him to focus on water and dams instead of fish, reports to The Sacramento Bee. U.S. Rep. Jeff Denham, R-Turlock, has called the plan a water grab, warning it would cripple the local economy, farms and communities in the Central Valley.

The president is supportive of Central Valley Republicans who strongly oppose the state water boards plan.

The New York Times was able to dig up a quote from his 2016 campaign rally in Fresno during which the now president said You have a water problem that is so insane, it is so ridiculous, where theyre taking the water and shoving it out to sea.

4. What the governor isnt saying

All of this needs to be seen in the context of the ongoing feud between Gov. Jerry Brown and Trump. Brown has repeatedly tied recent wildfires to climate change, a political issue where the two do not see eye to eye.

Just last week, The Trump administration announced plans to roll back strict fuel-economy standards aimed at reducing greenhouse gases. Brown responded that California will fight this stupidity every conceivable way possible.

Now the president is implying that Brown could be doing more to better manage the states water. This comes as the governor fights for an expensive water tunnel project in the Sacrament-San Joaquin Delta, which is seen as a legacy issue for him.

The governor hasnt responded to Trumps tweets, but well update this page if he does.

The Conversation

The Conversation with Abby and Luis is live on Facebook every weekday at noon PDT. They discuss whats written on this blog and more with viewers and welcome questions and comments that they reply to in real time.

Check out Abby and Luis talking about Trumps tweets below.

Email: abby.hamblin@sduniontribune.com

Twitter: @abbyhamblin
Niko is not sure what to think about the banana 



: niko_the_gsd_ pic.twitter.com/hmj8wOIQEN

 Cute Emergency (@CuteEmergency) August 6, 2018
San Diego hit 91 degrees on Tuesday, shattering the citys heat record for Aug. 7 set in 1983 by four degrees. The city has set or tied daily heat records, for either highest maximum or highest minimum temperature, six of the first seven days in August.

Escondido also set a record on Tuesday with a high of 102. Ramona (101) and Campo (105) tied their daily heat records. Escondido (71) and El Cajon (70) tied records for highest minimum temperature.

Also hitting 100 degrees on Tuesday were Valley Center (103), Poway and the San Pasqual Valley (102), and Alpine (100).

Out in the desert, Borrego Springs maxed out at 109, and Octoillo Wells reached 112.

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For the next few days, more heat and humidity are on the menu, with a small side of tropical influence.

By the weekend, something resembling normal weather could return to the inland valleys

National Weather Service forecasters expect some minor cooling in the inland valleys on Wednesday, but it might not feel much cooler. Wednesday is when added humidity arrives, due in part to Hurricane John, which on Tuesday was south of the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula and producing 105 mph winds.

John should move north on Wednesday, but it is not expected to reach Southern California or even make landfall on the Baja coast. Its presence to the south, however, will have an impact on San Diego County.

The fact it will be approaching means there will be a southeast flow, and that will help set up the monsoon flow, forecaster Miguel Miller said. The inland temperatures will go down, but the humidity levels will go up.

At the coast, it will minimize whatever little marine layer we have even more.

Without the marine layer, the beaches, which until Tuesday escaped the worst of the heat the last week, could be back near 90 degrees on Thursday and Friday.

John should have a minor effect on surf in the county, but the small boost it provides on top of very high tides could cause minor coastal flooding, Miller said.

For the mountains and desert, the monsoonal flow Wednesday and Thursday means the odds of afternoon thunderstorms will go up. Theres a slight chance the storms could spill over into areas like Alpine, Dulzura and Ramona, Miller said.

By the weekend, the the monsoonal moisture should be mostly gone, and the inland valleys could be in the high 80s to low 90s  close to normal for early August.

After all the heat, normal is going to feel great, Miller said.

The coast, however, will continue to endure the impact of exceptionally warm ocean waters, especially at night. Lows along most of the coast are expected to remain in the 70s and may approach record high minimums.

Coastal waters have been running 78 to 80 degrees, more than five degrees warmer than normal.

rob.krier@sduniontribune.com

(619) 293-2241

Twitter: @sdutKrier


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A dead fetus was discovered at LaGuardia Airport this morning, in the bathroom of a plane that arrived Monday night from Charlotte, North Carolina. According to NBC 4 New York, a cleaning crew found the fetus on American Airlines flight 1942, which departed Charlotte at 8:46 p.m. on Monday and landed in New York at 10:44 p.m. The crew only encountered the fetus Tuesday morning, around 7:30 a.m., and the airline is now deferring all inquiries to the Port Authority police. The airline also warned of possible delays this morning.

American Airlines flights at Terminal B may experience some delays due to an out of service aircraft. Please check with @AmericanAir before your departure.  LaGuardia Airport (@LGAairport) August 7, 2018

American Airlines released a preliminary statement: "As we continue to learn more about this tragic and sensitive situation, we are actively cooperating with law enforcement in its investigation."

We have reached out to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for further details, and will update when we hear back.

The discovery comes just two days after tourists pulled an approximately eight-month-old boy out of the East River. On Sunday afternoon, a man visiting from Oklahoma reportedly waded into the water near South Street and Dover Street around 4 p.m., after he and his family spotted a small head and legs floating in the water. They flagged down police, who attempted CPR on the baby, to no avail. He was subsequently pronounced dead at New York Downtown Hospital.

Authorities have not yet located the boy's parents, but according to the Post, two witnesses saw a woman carrying a basket on the Brooklyn Bridge before the baby was spotted in the river. The Officer of Chief Medical Examiner has yet to pinpoint the cause of deathwhether the baby drowned in the river, or whether he was dead before he reached the waterbut no drowned adults have been found in the vicinity, as is reportedly typical in cases like these. Neither parents nor guardians have come forward to identify the boy, leaving police to look for clues that often prove particularly hard to find in investigations involving infants, who don't have fingerprints.

On Tuesday morning, the city medical examiner was en route to LaGuardia. We will update as more information becomes available.
As a relatively new pet owner, I ask Google to explain lots of things about my cat. Why is this gremlin wrestling his own feet? Why is he galloping sideways, wild-eyed and yowling, like a crab rabbit escaped from hell? Why does he hiss at his own butt? Yet cats being what they areoften, willfully enigmatic assholes whose behaviors seem engineered to defy human interpretationthe internet's cat people offer conflicting insights into my questions. Usually, I'll just cherry pick the bits I like, with the understanding that no one can ever know what cats are up to inside their little fur brains. This week, however, I need real answers, because this week, someone seems to have transfigured New York into an enormous barbecue pit, obligating all of us to slow cook under a bed of coals in our miserable tissue box apartments for days.

We find ourselves mid-heat wave, friends, and while I signed up for this when I decided to move to this towering waste heap, my catPorkchop, a small soft boy who has never before weathered a New York City summerdid not. The question that weighs heaviest on my mind during this "heat emergency," per the National Weather Service, is whether or not Porkchop can safely stay in my hot apartment while I go to work.

This question divides the cat community. Point: Running the air conditioning, the assumed existence of which may strike many New Yorkers as laughably luxurious, is both expensive and, in an empty home, wasteful. Counterpoint: Your home isn't empty, it houses your pet, and what kind of a monster are you? Forums aren't very helpful in settling this one. They touch on the wildly subjective nature of feline preferences; they argue that cats love baking themselves in sun patches, so heat shouldn't really be a problem; that these beasts descend from jungle animals, yes, but they've also become accustomed to creature comforts and their particular home's environment. So what's the right call here? How can I avoid accidentally roasting my cat?

Dr. Timnah Lee, a veterinarian with the Tribeca Soho Animal Hospital in Manhattan, tells Gothamist that pets "are like children: If you wouldnt leave your toddler alone in the heat in your apartment, then you shouldnt leave your pet." At least not without taking a few precautions first.

Lee explains that different pets respond to heat in different ways: Dogs apparently hate humidity, while snakes (for example) require desert or jungle-type climes to thriveheat your hirsute critters may be ill-equipped to handle. While canines will often pant post-exercise, Lee warns that a panting pup who's just lazing around your apartment probably needs some help: Water, AC, and a cool spot to chill out. Cats, meanwhile, should never pant: "They are obligate nasal breathers, which means if they are panting, they are in respiratory distress and need to see a veterinarian ASAP," Lee notes. They also enjoy shady nooks, tile floors, and porcelain sinks, so do your cat a solid and leave your dark bathroom accessible when you leave for the day.

There is, however, no naturally occurring threshold temperature at which your apartment becomes too hot for a pet to handle. That depends on species, breed, and the animal itself. Certain breeds do carry more heat risk, though: Smush-faced petsPersian cats and bulldogs, for examplehave an extra hard time breathing in hot humid weather, Lee says. She recommends confining them to an air conditioned space and avoiding unnecessary outdoor jaunts, lest they overheat.

As for gauging whether or not you need to crank your AC when you head to work, Lee offers this simple tip: "Anytime you are hot and sweating, so are your pets." So if you're lucky enough to have an air conditioner, even central air, consider this: Pinpoint the least most reasonable temperature at which you would be comfortable if left to languish in your home all day, and set your unit there. If you lack AC, you'll want to power up your fans: Lee seems skeptical that these alone would be enough, especially for your squashed-face cats and dogs, but sometimes we all must make do.

Whenever temperatures spike, though, be kind and set out extra water bowls for your pet, to make sure they don't die of dehydration or take a tumble into the toilet bowl while trying to quench their thirst. Do this because you love your little goblin, because it takes mere minutes, and also because, if your pet is anything like mine, he gets *very punchy* in oppressive heat. Don't we all, though?

For more guidance, the ASPCA has a list of important heat wave pet safety tips.
Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/07/2018 -- Lifestyle improvement prevalent in Chinese economy has manifested novel growth avenues in China's edible vegetable oil market. Additionally, increasing health awareness amongst Chinese populace has led to adoption of new variants of vegetable oils besides traditional choices. To analyze key implications of ongoing developments on the growth of vegetable oil market, Market Research Hub (MRH) has collated a new research report titled, 'Research Report on China's Edible Vegetable Oil Industry, 2018-2022' to its rich database.



Proliferated Demands in Catering Industry to Prompt Growth in China's Edible Vegetable Oil Market



Manufacturers are constantly challenged by transitioning end-user expectations to up-scale their product portfolio in edible vegetable oils such that they remain industry specific in their offerings. Adoption of new technological support to improve production capabilities remains primary amongst core manufacturers. Additionally, leading players in China's edible vegetable oil market are also banking upon introduction of new variants in consideration of evolving health concerns.



Request For Sample Report: https://www.marketresearchhub.com/enquiry.php?type=S&repid=1863316



Rapeseed and Soybean Oils Account Maximum Consumption in China's Edible Vegetable Oil Market



Detailed research findings enumerated in the report enable readers to gain firsthand information about major categories in the market. Based on research postulates compiled in the report, China's edible vegetable oil market exhibits soybean oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil and peanut oil olive oil, corn oil and sunflower seed oil as major oil categories. Based on these research output, readers are able to gain vital insights on the impact of categories in stimulating growth in China's edible vegetable oil market. Also, readers can gain vital cues from the report components about the category attributed to accentuation of revenues in China's edible vegetable oil market.



Based on vital report content, readers are also enlightened about winning marketing practices and business tactics employed by core players to facilitate growth in China's edible vegetable oil market. With the aid of report components, readers can attain vital statistical data about the impact of these winning strategies on end-user response.



Browse Full Report with TOC- https://www.marketresearchhub.com/report/research-report-on-chinas-edible-vegetable-oil-industry-20182022-report.html



Competitive Landscape: China's Edible Vegetable Oil Market



Veritable research outcome incorporated in the report allow readers to understand the impact of winning marketing strategies formulated by core companies in influencing favorable end user response such as their purchase preferences and subsequent purchase journey. Detailed analysis of these strategies by emerging and existing market players in China's edible vegetable oil market encourages new perspectives and deductions. Based on these perspectives and inferences, market players can demonstrate profit oriented marketing decisions and investment policies that ensure sustenance as well as augment revenue generation in China's edible vegetable oil market. Leading players identified in the market consist of COFCO Corporation, Standard Foods, Sinograin Oils Corporation, Shandong Xiwang Food Co., Ltd., Yihai Kerry Investments Co., Ltd., and Shandong Luhua Group Co., Ltd. amongst others.



Enquire about this Report- https://www.marketresearchhub.com/enquiry.php?type=enquiry&repid=1863316



About Market Research Hub

Market Research Hub (MRH) is a next-generation reseller of research reports and analysis. MRH's expansive collection of market research reports has been carefully curated to help key personnel and decision makers across industry verticals to clearly visualize their operating environment and take strategic steps.



MRH functions as an integrated platform for the following products and services: Objective and sound market forecasts, qualitative and quantitative analysis, incisive insight into defining industry trends, and market share estimates. Our reputation lies in delivering value and world-class capabilities to our clients.



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New York, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/06/2018 -- Future Market Insights (FMI) announced the release of a latest report titled, "POU Water Purifiers Market: MENA Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment 2014 - 2020". FMI estimates that the Point of Use (POU) water purifier market in Middle East and North Africa is expected to reach US$ 471 Mn at a CAGR of 7.6% from 2014 to 2020.



Residential water purification system includes point of use water purifiers (POU), point of entry (POE) water purifiers, portable water purifiers. Moreover, the demand for POU water purifiers is high among consumers in MENA region as compared to POE and portable water purifiers.



In the POU water purifiers market, products with high purification capabilities such as combination of reverse osmosis (RO) and Ultraviolet (UV) technologies are more preferred. It has also been observed that a majority of the demand is coming from urban centres in GCC when compared to the entire MENA region.



Browse Full: "POU Water Purifiers Market: MENA Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment 2014 - 2020" Report at https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/details/mena-pou-water-purifiers-market



Market Segments



The POU water purifiers market is segmented on the basis of technology which includes RO, UV and media-based. RO technology based water purifiers segment is estimated to account for slightly over 40% of the total POU water purifiers market in MENA region in 2014. Media-based water purification, which is a conventional water purification technology has also witnessed technological advancements, and is estimated to display a CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period, in terms of volume. The third technology, UV based water purifiers, is estimated to exhibit a sluggish growth rate during the forecast period due to its limitation in removing only organic contaminants from water. Additionally, UV-based water purifiers are also priced higher in comparison to media-based water purifiers and hence the product preference for UV based water purifiers is comparatively low.



Region-wise, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), United Arab Emirates (UAE), Turkey, Israel, Egypt and Algeria are the promising markets for POU water purifiers. In addition, a cumulative scenario has been highlighted for rest of MENA (includes smaller countries like Kuwait, Jordan etc.). Among the aforementioned regions, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is estimated to be the prominent market for POU water purifiers, followed by Turkey, due to its growing population and rapid urbanization, and increasing awareness for safe drinking water forecast period.



In addition, penetration of bottled water is a challenge for the POU water purifiers market in Anatolia. As a result, Anatolia is estimated to demonstrate a sluggish growth rate in the near future. Furthermore, POU water purifiers market in UAE is anticipated to reach 149.2 thousand units by 2020, exhibiting a CAGR of 10% between 2014 and 2020.



Drivers and Restraints



Deteriorating water quality, rising cost of bottled water, increasing population coupled with increasing per capita income are some of the prominent factors which will catalyse the point of use water purifiers in the region. Though the MENA market is attractive in terms of absolute dollar opportunity, low awareness about safe drinking water and product unavailability are major challenges for the MENA POU water purifier market.



Request for sample report: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-ma-30



Competitive Landscape



Key players operating in the MENA water purifier market are LG, Eureka Forbes, Strauss Water, Panasonic, WaterLife and Coolplex. The report sheds light on their key growth strategies and recent developments. In addition, the report also discusses the value chain followed by multinational companies in MENA for POU water purifiers.
London, England -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/07/2018 -- UK Auto has seen an increase in its import of used cars to France on the back of its top quality vehicle services and Brexit, which has also contributed to the growth.



UK Auto has already created a strong reputation for itself with its passion for cars, which is translated into the best options and services that are offered to its clients. In fact, the company has become the one stop shop for users as it guides them right from choosing the best drive for their needs to delivering them to their doorstep.



The company brought that same passion for cars and work ethics to France. With it came a strong fleet of vehicles including BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Toyota, Nissan from some of the best Japanese, American and European brands in the business. Importantly, according to sources the drives offered by the company are 50% cheaper than in France.



Chris, the owner and founder of UK Auto asserted that his used cars sold in France were even cheaper than those offered by Germany. Thus consumers get the best car models of their choice at low rates. The company also does a custom search for vehicles based on their specific demands, which ensures that it meets their requirements to the T.



UK Auto conducts a thorough documentation check and road tests on vehicles to ascertain the quality and condition of the drives. In fact, every element of the car is checked before negotiation of the deal. Interested users can get a free quote through the strong and versatile customer support offered by the company, which leads to complete transparency that puts their minds at rest.



With its wide range of best car models, exceptional service, low costs and of course the recent impact of Brexit, UK Auto has managed to become the leading player for used car imports in France.



About UK Auto

The company with years of experience in the field is known for its high quality vehicle services, which have made their mark with clients in Europe.



Media Contacts:

Website: https://ukauto.fr/

Email: contact@ukauto.fr

Phone: +447803463901

Address: 152-160 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX
On July 28th, at an event called "Block Party for a Just Rezoning" Inwood resident Alex Ortega approached City Councilmember Ydanis Rodriguez, who represents Washington Heights and Inwood.

Whats going on here is wrong, Ortega said, raising his voice over the partys blaring Latin music. I grew up right here on Post Avenue. My whole life Ive been here and its not fair that my mom lost her apartment to bullshit rent.

Rodriguez was prepared for these critiques. Nodding, he told Ortega that stories like his were why the neighborhood needed more affordable housing development and resources for preservation.

So theres a real call you gotta make which is, for one, downsize the rezoning, Rodriguez said.

Downsize? No no no, we dont want to downsize, Ortega shot back. We want to stop the rezoning.

Five days later, Rodriguez would publicly throw his support behind the rezoning, which is intended boost residential and commercial development in a large swath of the neighborhood thats currently zoned for industrial or automotive uses. Rodriguez predicts it will create 2,600 units of affordable housing, and generate $400 million in investments for parks, education, and tenant legal services, in addition to a form of rent control policy for local businesses. On Wednesday, the City Council will vote on the proposal, and it is expected to pass.

Above all, I am an advocate of the people, and have the good fortune to be at the Council at this moment in the history in our district, Rodriguez said at a press conference last Friday. United in our progressive values, they [the council] have listened and understand our priorities: the need for investment in elevating a community that has been neglected for generations.

The story of Inwood is similar to that of many working class neighborhoods in New York. Situated at the northernmost tip of Manhattan, it once had the second highest homicide total in the city. In the 17 years leading up to 2010, the crime rate plummeted 83%, and Inwood became one of New Yorks safest neighborhoods. With the lower crime levels came other changes. An assessment of the rezoning put together by a group of faculty at City College shows a steady hike in rents in Inwoods community district since 2010, and a decline in the percent of people of Hispanic origin, from 74% to 68%, followed by an increase in 2016. The report also cites an increase in white residents and a higher median income.



(Gothamist / Data from the Furman Center)

Political science professor John Krinsky was one of the faculty members involved in the City College assessment. He believes that displacement risk from rezoning cannot be calculated without analyzing the behavior of landlords, who are ultimately responsible for raising rents, neglecting their buildings, and initiating eviction proceedings.

The trouble is that we don't know who is most at risk [of displacement] because the data on what landlords are actually doing, what they paid for buildings, and what their rent rolls are like is very difficult to get, Krinsky told Gothamist. And further, nobody is required to do so, under city rules.

Krinsky says that despite the lack of detailed data, research points to the high risk of displacement faced by tenants living under some Inwood landlords. The Association for Neighborhood and Housing Development (ANHD) publishes annual reports on displacement risk. In them, Community District 12 has consistently been in the top 20 districts with the highest number of housing court cases. However, in 2017, the district was not in the top 20 most rent burdened districts.

[This] suggests both that landlords may be being extra-aggressive in bringing housing-court litigations against Community District 12 residents and/or that these litigations are targeted at those least able to pay rent, Krinsky said.

Gothamist mapped each of the 429 evictions carried out in Inwood and the adjacent zip code from 2017 to August 2018. In Inwoods zip code alone there were 230 evictions, of which 59 were commercial and 174 were residential. Approximately 27.3% of buildings in Inwood had at least one eviction since January 2017.

(Gothamist / Data from the New York City Open Data Portal)

Through additional analysis, Gothamist found that the annual percent increase in commercial property taxes has more than doubled since 2015, from a 3.2% increase to a 8.6% jump.

(Gothamist / Data from the Department of Finance)

Minutes before a City Council subcommittee vote on the rezoning proposal last week, Councilmember Rodriguez announced that he was able to support the upzoning because he had wrested concessions from the City, including the elimination of Inwoods Commercial U from the project area. The Commercial U segment, which consists of Dyckman Street, Broadway, and 207th Street, comprises the neighborhoods principle commercial corridors. After the vote passed and the meeting was adjourned, city officials who had spent the night negotiating details congratulated each other. The Daily News wrote favorably of Rodriguezs decision, calling it a victory for the community.

When the de Blasio administration first announced that Inwood would become one of the first 8 of 15 neighborhoods slated for rezoning, a group called Northern Manhattan is Not for Sale offered their own recommendations. They were interested in development, but with non-profit developers and deeper affordability.

Graham Ciraulo is a tenant organizer who worked on the alternative rezoning plan. He told Gothamist that in 2017, a private developer put in an application to upzone a site on Sherman Avenue for the construction of a 26-story condominium building. After fierce outcry from the community, the proposal was shot down. Ciraulo said that by choosing not to zone the Commercial U, the City is opening the area up for similar spot up-zonings in the future.

With this [new] proposal the city is just kicking the can of development down the road, Graham said. Thats whats so infuriating about Rodriguez. Hes saying we did this for the communityno you did not.

Asked to respond to these charges, Councilmember Rodriguez said in a statement, I listened to my community at many town halls and meetings. I can say that Im voting for a rezoning plan that will bolster our community and lift hardworking New Yorkers into the middle class.

Krinsky, the City College professor, says he is unsure of what the revised rezoning proposal might lead to, but echoed the suggestion of Queens Councilmember Francisco Moya, who asked that a moratorium be placed on rezoning until the City can better understand the risks of displacement.

While it might seem that these are neighborhoods that capital has forgotten, it is worth remembering that the low-income tenants who stuck it out in East Harlem, Bushwick, and the South Bronx for decades are now fighting to hang on as their neighborhoods become highly gentrified zones, Krinsky told Gothamist, adding that many have already left.

Krinsky said the situation was disheartening.

I dont know how much longer this can go on until the city is completely unaffordable. I mean, where else can people go?

The full City Council vote is slated for 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

Note on the analysis: Evictions data from the the NYC Open Data Portal. Property Tax Data from the NYC Department of Finance property tax roll archives. Demographics and median rent data from the Furman Center.
A graphic anti-Chinese statement has been spray-painted onto five different locations in Bensonhurst, and the police are hoping the public can find the person behind it.

Police say that at around 2:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 4th, a male individual "used a stencil to spray paint an anti-Chinese statement on the exterior" of 8508 20 Avenue, where the Green Food Supermarket is located.

The statement was "Chinese c---s stink like fish."

The graffiti was spotted on four other locations on Sunday, according to police: On a fence at 1876 83rd Street; outside 2028 86th Street; outside 8519 New Utrecht Avenue; and on the column of an elevated train platform at 2061 86th Street. City Council Member Mark Treyger said he saw the graffiti on even more places.

The male suspect is described last seen wearing a shirt, shorts, sneakers and a cap on his head while carrying a large bag.

The remarks were denounced by Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and other officials who held a rally on Monday. Adams also announced a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. He said, "This was a pre-meditated action to identify a group and treat them in a disparaging, negative fashion  that to me says hate crime all over it, and that crime needs to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

Anyone with information in regards to this incident is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime stoppers website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.
News

UAE orders arrest of man, woman for immoral acts and words

The Federal Office of Investigation previously submitted a report to the State's Attorney General on monitoring this clip, besides the investigations of the office which identified the account through which the clip was published on the "Snapchat" platform, and the owner of the account.
The two Israeli stopovers will be the ports of entry for guests to visit Jerusalem, Nazareth and Galilee, and also Tel Aviv, and the Dead Sea.

Before returning to Piraeus, Horizon will call in Patmos, a small island in the Dodecanese. The itinerary also includes two sea days.

I have no doubt that this fantastic route will have a great reception from the Spanish market not only because it includes destinations visited by thousands of people and because each one has its own hallmark but also because it will allow them to discover them in a completely Spanish atmosphere, without having to give up their own customs and habits, notes Pullmantur Cruises, president and ceo Richard J. Vogel.

The itinerary is part of Pullmanturs Exclusive Destinations sub-brand and therefore, the on-board experience will also be much richer, Vogel added.
This has been driven by the pick-up in oil and gas (O&G) activities especially for brownfield sites, although the upside has been offset by continuing depressed charter rates on oversupply of vessels.

Whilst market sentiment is more positive amid signs of increased investment and Capex in offshore oil field development, the oversupply of OSV vessels continues to exert pressure on both utilisation and charter rates, POSH said in a press release.

Read More: Lamprell seeing more jack-up rig refurbishment jobs

The OA segment did especially well for the offshore marine services provider, with revenue rising 3.5 times to $45.4m as both its SSAVs were fully employed in the second quarter and the other OA vessels also reported higher average daily rates and utilisation. The two SSAVs will also stay employed in their current charters for the Chevron Big Foot and Shell Prelude projects respectively till the third quarter, while the POSH Xanadu has already secured a new firm eight-plus-eight months optional extension charter with Petrobras which is set to commence in December 2018.

Nevertheless, POSH still turned in a $5.8m loss for the second quarter, although this was halved from the $11m recorded in the previous corresponding quarter in 2017.

POSH remains one of the few companies in the sector that have emerged from the O&G market crash relatively unscathed and has positioned itself well for further growth ahead. It is in the process of setting up overseas offices in Angola and Brunei and strengthening existing offices in Saudi Arabia and Mexico to widen market reach and improve client servicing in key markets.

Learn more about decommissioning at Seatrade Maritime Middle East in October 2018

Meanwhile the group is also moving into other segments. It has recently set up unit POSH Subsea, to enter into subsea construction, installation, SURF, IMR related services, as well made inroads into the Taiwan Offshore Renewables market through a joint venture with Kerry TJ Logistics.

POSH ceo Gerald Seow said: We are encouraged by our sustained performance over the past quarter. Even as market conditions remain challenging, we continued to make headway in improving overall performance and securing new contracts. We have also expanded into new growth areas including subsea and offshore renewables.

He added: POSH will continue to build on our differentiated position to capture more opportunities by further expanding our global footprint, exploring new growth pockets and investing in our people and core competencies.
Press Release

August 7, 2018 De Lima pushes for 5-day calamity leave Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has proposed a five-day special emergency leave for all public and private workers directly affected by natural calamity or disaster to allow them to protect themselves and their families as well as their properties. Cognizant of the myriad dangers faced during natural calamities and disasters, De Lima filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 1910 which seeks to provide a five-day special emergency leave with pay for all workers in the public and private sector. "Ours is a tropical country and our industries thrive in water. But the force of the earth that catapults us to our growth as a nation is the same force that endangers our people," she said. Located along the Pacific Belt, the Philippines is often visited with an average of 20 typhoons every year, some of which wreak havoc across the country, endanger the lives of many people and even destroy properties, vital facilities and agriculture. Situated in the "Pacific Ring of Fire," the country is also vulnerable to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, making its geographical location and physical environment susceptible to tsunami, storm surges, landslides, flood, sea level rise, and even drought. The Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development explained that the State should strike a balance between the duties of every Filipino as an employee and his primal instinct to survive during emergencies. "The fight to survive is the daily concern of every Filipino, but it is more important when Mother Nature herself makes her presence known," she added. De Lima said she is proposing that each worker in the public and private sector should be afforded with protection against the onslaught of calamities and disasters, including taking care of their families and properties against damages and dangers. "The profound environmental effect of natural disasters and/or calamities to the nation is inevitable, and it for that reasons this proposed measure seeks to at the very least soften the blow of the unforeseen and the inescapable," she said. Under her proposed measure, an employee who has rendered at least six months of service should be entitled to a five-day calamity leave with pay in times of natural calamities or disasters. Qualified to a "calamity leave" are employees who are stranded in calamity-stricken areas, those who have incurred disease or illness, or need to take care of family members, or to attend to repair and clean up their damaged properties during calamity or disaster. The grant of a five-day calamity leave, however, shall be subjected to careful verification, including the declaration of calamity, medical certificate, announcement of work suspension, road closure, availability of public transportation, among others.
Guarding Against 'Pork' in the 2019 Budget

More at: https://pinglacson.net/2018/08/07/guarding-against-pork-in-the-2019-budget/

With the policy statement issued by Speaker Arroyo concerning all the congressmen's earmarks for their respective districts, expect a massive mangling of the National Expenditure Program (NEP).

If not checked, we will be back to the happy 'pork barrel' days of legislators in spite of the Supreme Court ruling outlawing the same.

Worse, all the planning involved in the preparation of the national budget will be rendered inutile to the detriment of the medium development plan of the national government, as well as the local development plans submitted by the local government units (LGUs).

I hope some like-minded colleagues in the Senate will also work overtime, as I am determined to do, in scrutinizing the House version of the appropriations bill to expose and slice whatever "pork" there is in whatever form and no matter how deeply hidden, with the end in view of preventing the return of this malevolent practice now declared unconstitutional with finality by the Supreme Court.
Press Release

August 7, 2018 Koko: Admin parties united behind the President Sen. Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III on Tuesday reiterated that PDP-Laban and Hugpong ng Pagbabago, the party led by Davao Mayor Sara Duterte, were "united in its support for the President" despite being two separate organizations with its own members. "Allies of the President may belong to one or both of these parties but we are all on the same side; we all stand by the President" stressed Pimentel, who had earlier expressed openness to form a coalition with Hugpong ng Pagbabago "As I have stated to my party mates, Hugpong ng Pagbabago is a regional party, PDP-Laban is a national party. There is really no problem with dual membership in the national party and regional party," said the senator. Pimentel added that with the midterm elections still nine months away, government officials should remain focused on governance, not politics. "The President's agenda supersedes any political agenda. Politics can wait but our people cannot. Trabaho muna, saka na ang pulitika," the legislator emphasized. Pimentel said that PDP Laban would continue to follow the lead of President Duterte, the party's chairman, who enumerated the Administration's priorities in his third State of the Nation speech. "We still have a lot of work to do and there are important matters that require our attention, such as the universal healthcare bill, the rice tariffication measure, and the shift to federalism," said the Senator from Mindanao. "These measures have been certified as urgent, and we should treat them as such, especially since these will have a direct impact on the lives of our people."
Press Release

August 7, 2018 Senate approves bills increasing bed capacity in various public hospitals The Senate today approved on third and final reading three bills seeking to increase the bed capacity of three government hospitals in Zamboanga City, Surigao del Sur and Mt. Province, respectively. Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito, chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, said the passage of House Bill Nos. (HBN) 6114, 6742 and 6621 would increase the bed capacity in the aforementioned hospitals and improve their facilities to better serve the people in these areas. "We are at a time when Filipinos have become more aware and conscious about their health situation. Our people have slowly learned the true value of our government health system," he said. "As our people adapt to the modern times and needs in the aspect of their health, so should our government hospitals. They must be well-equipped and able to cater to the influx of patients who have entrusted their well-being to our healthcare system," Ejercito said. HBN 6114 would increase the bed capacity of Luis Hora Memorial Regional Hospital in Bauko, Mt. Province to two-hundred (200) beds from its one hundred (100) beds, while HBN 6742 would increase the bed capacity of Zamboanga City Medical Center in Zamboanga City at eight hundred beds (800) beds from its current five hundred (500) beds. Likewise, HBN 6621 would incrementally increase the bed capacity of Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur for a period of five years as determined by the DOH. Ejercito said that the increase in hospital bed capacity "is an increase in the trust of our people in our public hospitals." "Our people have embraced the idea of integrating themselves and their families in the protection and care of our government," he said. Let us repay the people for their confidence in the government by giving them good service," he said. Ejercito noted that the Philippines needs an additional 42,856 hospital beds to achieve its target number of hospital beds, since the country now only has 88,394, or 67 percent, of the 131, 250 beds required to achieve the ideal ratio between hospital beds and the population. "Because of the shortage in facilities and space, it appears that going to public hospitals have resulted to the worsening health, and even death, of some people. It is a truly lamentable situation, and urgent action is needed to help our countrymen," he said.
Press Release

August 7, 2018 Recto: P25 B Nat'l ID must end woes of 7 M Pinoys without birth certificate With a price tag of P25 billion, the National ID project should be able to solve the problem of 7.5 million Filipinos without birth certificates, Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said. "That should be one of the outcomes of the project," Recto said. "If there will be a mass list-up and registration, then perhaps we can use this activity to end the plight of those without birth certificates." "Pwedeng tingnan ito na isa sa mga bonus ng proyekto," Recto said. "What I'm saying is that we should use the national ID platform as an opportunity to solve the quandary of those who do not have birth documents. Kung gagastos na rin tayo ng ganito kalaki, baka pwede na hagipin yung problema ng mga kababayan nating walang birth certificate," he said. On a related matter, Recto said an individual without or who cannot present a birth certificate can still register for a national ID by presenting "alternative or additional documents to prove his or her identity." While the law states that the birth certificate is the basic documentary requirement for registration, this clause was inserted in cognizance of the reality that millions of Filipinos have no birth certificates, Recto said. It emerged during the Senate debates that the measure - which President Duterte signed into law on August 6 as Republic Act 11055 or the Philippine Identification System Act - will cost P25 billion, spread out over five years. For 2018, the project has a budget of P2 billlion, lodged with the lead implementer, the Philippine Statistical Authority (PSA). It is estimated that 20 to 25 million Filipinos will register every year for five years, or about 60,000 a day, in data capture centers by at least eight government offices. These are PSA regional and provincial offices, Local Civil Registry Offices, and offices of the GSIS, SSS, PhilHealth, PagIBIG Fund, Comelec, and PhilPost.
Press Release

August 7, 2018 Villanueva: It's time to end the evils of contractualization Security of Tenure bill to finally end abuses against workers brought by ENDO Senator Joel Villanueva on Tuesday delivered his sponsorship speech on the committee report released by the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resources Development on Senate Bill No. 1826 or the Security of Tenure Bill. Villanueva, chairperson of the Committee on Labor, emphasized the urgency and importance of passing a law that will finally put an end to abusive work schemes like "endo" and labor-only contracting. The Senator echoed President Rodrigo Duterte's last State of the Nation Address (SONA) calling for a law to address the abuses of contractualization. According to Villanueva, the practice of contractualization affects more than 1.9 million workers in the private sector. Overall, about three out of 10 Filipino workers are not regular and one out of two non-regular workers are contractual. "Ang kawalan po ng seguridad sa trabaho o kabuhayan sa bahagi ng manggagawa ang isa sa malaking pagkakaiba ng kontraktwal at regular. Dahil wala silang seguridad sa trabaho, habambuhay silang nasa laylayan ng lipunan, lubog sa kahirapan dahil palaging "new employee" sa iisa o iba't ibang employer, minimum wage earner lang at kinakaltasan ng uniform, capital share sa kooperatiba at Personal Protective Equipment o PPEs, at kadalasan ay hindi hinuhulugan ang kanilang SSS, PagIbig at Philhealth," Villanueva said. The senator lamented the weak enforcement of regularization orders by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). "Nananatili itong papel o order lamang dahil hindi naman naipapatupad sa iba't ibang kadahilanan, isa na rito ang pag-apela hanggang sa Korte Suprema. Ang mga manggagawa ay tinatanggal o nagkakapalitan lang ng mga contractors, at ang pinakamasaklap, lalo pa po silang nalagay sa alanganin - tulad ng mga inaresto matapos ang marahas na dispersal ng mga manggagawang nagpiket sa Nutri-Asia sa Marilao, Bulacan at mga nagpo-protesta sa PLDT na ilang linggo nang walang tinatanggap na sahod sa kumpanya," Villanueva shared. Endo which is defined as "the scheme of continuously employing workers on a fixed period and replacing these workers again upon expiration of the contract with other workers on the same employment duration" is prevalent in manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, accommodation and food service, and crop and animal production. On the other hand, "contracting" refers to an arrangement whereby a principal agrees to engage the services of a contractor to perform or complete a specific job or work within a definite or predetermined period, regardless of whether such job or work is to be performed or completed within or outside the premises of the principal. "Ang bottomline po dito ay ang Labor-Only Contracting na siyang numero unong behikulo ng ENDO ay labag sa karapatan ng mga manggagawa." For the businesses, Villanueva said that ending these abusive work schemes will also benefit the industries. According to Villanueva, "ending ENDO is NOT anti-business. Giving our workers certainty and social protection makes them more efficient, more productive, and, in lieu of 'social clauses' and brand codes of conduct, more market competitive, which is the primary concern of every business." The Senator cited a study conducted in 13 European countries by the International Labor Organization in 2004 revealed that "the relationship between tenure and productivity for the period 1992 to 2002 shows that at an aggregate level, tenure has a positive effect on productivity for about 14 years and levels off thereafter. The study suggests that countries remain productive with a high share of long-tenured workers. According to Villanueva the proposed measure has four salient features: First, the Security of Tenure Bill provides social protection to workers by ensuring their constitutional right to security of tenure through the prohibition on labor-only contracting.

Second, the bill only allows independent, licensed and specialized job contracting, simplifying classification of workers and tightening the rules regarding probationary employees.

Third, the measure establishes a Transition Support Program (TSP) for workers to ensure their continuous growth through skills training as well as financial assistance while they are not at work or transitioning between jobs.

Finally, the Security of Tenure bill provides DOLE and the employers with clearly defined policies. "Senate Bill 1826 is clear enough to meet the interests of the labor sector and the interests of the business sector," the senator said. The Security of Tenure bill is "pro-labor, pro-business, and pro-Filipino," he added. "Naniniwala po tayo na ang Senate Bill 1826 ay tungkol sa pag-respeto sa dignidad ng mga manggagawa at ng ating mga kapwa-Filipino at pagmamalasakit sa lahat ng negosyo sa bansa - malaki o maliit man ang mga ito," Villanueva concluded.
ASB Bank, the local unit of Commonwealth Bank of Australia, lifted profit 12 percent as the local bank lifted its earnings from growing interest income and wider margins.

Cash earnings, the favoured measure of the Australian-owned banks which strips out financial instrument adjustments, rose to $1.14 billion for the New Zealand unit in the year ended June 30, from $1 billion a year earlier. Statutory net profit jumped 10 percent to $1.18 billion, on growing operating income.

The New Zealand lender's net interest earnings rose 10.2 percent to $2 billion, as ASB's total deposits gained 7.3 percent to $62.4 billion. The bank had $82.9 billion of outstanding customer advances as at June 30, from $78.1 billion a year earlier. Net interest margins increased to 2.24 percent from 2.17 percent in 2017.

ASB's operating costs rose 5.4 percent to $879 million in the year, while impairment losses increased 16 percent to $80 million.

The Australian group's net profit dropped 6 percent to A$9.33 billion as total operating income rose to A$25.9 billion, from A$25.3 billion a year earlier. In the latest financial year, the lender paid a total A$700 million for a civil penalty over Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) claims it breached anti-money laundering provisions. Still, the board declared a fully-franked interim dividend of A$2.31, taking the total dividend for the year to A$4.31, from A$4.29 a year earlier.

The bank has faced scrutiny for its conduct by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and has entered into an enforceable undertaking with the regulator. Separately, the Royal Commission into misconduct in the sector is ongoing, with Commonwealth Bank having paid out refunds for fees they charged customers for services it never provided. The bank said today that one-off regulatory costs from the Royal Commission, AUSTRAC proceedings and the APRA inquiry totalled A$155 million.

Chair Catherine Livingstone apologised for the bank's behaviour on behalf of the board in the annual report, as did chief executive Matt Comyn, who took over the role in January. Both said Commonwealth Bank is committed to rebuilding trust.

Comyn said the bottom line had been impacted by the AUSTRAC penalty and compliance costs, but "excluding these items, expense growth was maintained at low levels due to productivity initiatives. This supported growth in overall earnings, excluding non-recurring items. Importantly, our balance sheet continued to strengthen across funding and liquidity metrics, and we remain one of the best capitalised banks in the world."

The Australian bank plans to simplify its portfolio and focus more on its core banking businesses in Australia and New Zealand, and will demerge its wealth management and mortgage broking businesses into a separate listed entity named NewCo, while it invests more in mortgages, business banking, and payments.

CBA's New Zealand operations will remain separate from the Australian parent though its strategic direction will be "broadly aligned" to the Australian mass retail customer proposition, the company said.

In the year, it sold its life insurance businesses, including Sovereign Insurance in New Zealand which was sold to AIA Group on July 2. CBA booked a post-tax gain of A$102 million from that sale.

CBA's ASX-listed shares last traded at A$72.89 and have dropped 9.3 percent so far this year.

(BusinessDesk)

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The settlement between hospital nurses and their district health board employers - coupled with current immigration settings - adds to growing pressure in the retirement sector and if steps aren't taken people may eventually have to be turned away, says Summerset Group chief executive Julian Cook.

Earlier today the New Zealand Nurses' Organisation announced nurses voted in favor of the latest pay offer from the government, staving off further strike action and bringing nearly a year of negotiations to an end. The deal is thought to be worth around $520 million.

Against that backdrop, the DHBs need to "look at this seriously and effectively pass on sufficient funding to allow us to match those wage increases," Cook told BusinessDesk.

"Whether you are working in DHB or aged care, you are still in the health sector and its paid for by the government and it should be funded so they have quality of staff," he said.

Cook echoed recent comments made by Oceania Healthcare chief executive Earl Gasparich, who said the aged care sector is still predominantly funded through the DHBs, "so our ability to lift wages is somewhat linked to the funding we receive from the district health boards."

The DHBs agreed to a 2 percent funding increase in July with the sector and the deal included an undertaking they would come back to the table after they reached a settlement with the New Zealand Nurses' Organisation.

"They said they would come back to the table. They made no commitments as to what they would do after they were at the table," said Cook.

"We think it is really important that the industry and DHBs sit down and basically pass on enough funding to allow the aged care sector to match those increases," he reiterated.

Summerset, like other retirement village operators, is currently expanding its businesses to benefit from increased demand as people born in the country's post-war era reach the target age for operators. However, the other pressure "which is really building" is related to immigration changes made by the previous government "that are really starting to bite," said Cook.

"Unless this stuff is dealt with, you are going to see shortages come within the next few years and if you keep playing it through people are going to have to start turning people away from these facilities unless we get on top of this," he said.

According to Cook, the current government has "a real opportunity" to get on top of the issue and should look at including nurses on the long-term skills shortage list and changing the setting around the so-called stand-down period for caregivers.

Under current settings, once someone has spent three years working in New Zealand in lower-skilled employment, they will be required to spend 12 consecutive months outside New Zealand before they can be granted another Essential Skills Work Visa for lower-skilled employment.

The result is fewer people coming into the country to take on some of these roles, he said. "The reality is that in some parts of the country there just aren't people who can or want to do the job," he said.

(BusinessDesk)

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CBL Corp's creditors will have to wait until November to hear again from the company's voluntary administrators after they were granted a further extension for the watershed meetings by the High Court.

Auckland-based insurer CBL appointed KordaMentha voluntary administrators on March 2 after the Reserve Bank sought an interim liquidation of its New Zealand supervised arm and the Central Bank of Ireland made a similar move against its European division.

That month, the court extended the date for the watershed meeting, normally held within 25 working days of the appointment of administrators, to May, by which time KordaMentha recommended the company be put into liquidation. However, that meeting was adjourned when it became clear there would be a voting stalemate on whether to put the company into liquidation or hand control back to its directors, and rescheduled until July 2.

In June, the administrators again got agreement from the High Court to delay the meeting, then until Aug. 17. Today, the administrators said the court has allowed another delay to the meeting until Nov. 17.

During this time, CBL Insurance - the New Zealand-based subsidiary - has been placed in interim liquidation, and is being investigated by the Serious Fraud Office, the Reserve Bank and the Financial Markets Authority.

The Auckland High Court had set aside three days beginning July 30 to hear the Reserve Banks application to liquidate CBL Insurance, with the central bank alleging that CBL Insurance breached solvency margins and statutory directions. However, the court ordered that hearing be vacated on July 27, and a new date has not yet been set.

"The administrators previous extension applications had aligned the dates of the watershed meetings with the expected resolution of the status of one of CBLs largest subsidiaries, CBL Insurance," KordaMentha said. "There are extensive confidentiality orders in place in respect of the liquidation application, which limits the information the administrators can provide."

KordaMentha's Neale Jackson said the outcome for CBL Insurance is "a key consideration in assessing the potential options for the group, including the restructuring plan that is being proposed by two of CBLs directors. The position of CBL Insurance also impacts on CBL Insurance Europe, another of CBL Corporations subsidiaries, as is explained in our watershed report.

The late adjournment of the CBL Insurance liquidation hearing has necessitated extending the watershed meetings to allow time to consider the impact that the deferral has on the options available to the companies we control," Jackson said. "One of the options we are considering is whether to proceed with resolving the position of the companies that are in administration despite not knowing the outcome for CBL Insurance, but at this stage that is not our preferred option."

(BusinessDesk)

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Steel & Tube Holdings attracted several new investors in the first tranche of a deeply discounted $80.9 million capital raise, which it will use to shore up its balance sheet in a wider restructuring of the steel building products supplier.

The Lower Hutt-based company sold 18.1 million shares at $1.15 apiece, raising $20.8 million, to new and existing investors, it said. The second tranch of the capital raise is a fully underwritten pro rata one-for-1.9 rights offer, which will raise $60.1 million at $1.05 apiece. That's a deep discount to the last trading price of $1.46, and the shares have already dropped 30 percent so far this year. The company had 8,189 shareholders as at July 31.

"We received strong support from existing institutional investors and were pleased to welcome several new large investors to the Steel & Tube register, including a number of New Zealand and Australian investment funds," chair Susan Paterson said in a statement. "The interest in the stock and significant support by sophisticated and rigorous investors, demonstrated confidence in the refresh of the board and management and the strategic direction of the company."

The funds raised will repay debt, giving Steel & Tube enough headroom to pursue restructuring initiatives under new chief executive Mark Malpass. The company had to get a waiver from its banking partners after breaching a lending covenant earlier this year.

Steel & Tube yesterday said underlying earnings were slightly ahead of forecast at $16.5 million, but it will report a loss before interest and tax of about $38 million as books one-off charges from reduced software amortisation costs due to delay in implementing a new enterprise resource planning system.

The shares will resume trading today.

(BusinessDesk)

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Serko shares will resume trading today after a $15 million placement was over-subscribed, raising funds for the online travel booking app developer to accelerate its global growth plans.

The Auckland-based company sold almost 5.5 million shares at $2.75 apiece in a placement to 12 institutional investors in New Zealand and Australia and attracted strong participation from retail investors, it said in a statement. The offer was a 3.2 percent discount to the last trading price of $2.84.

"The placement provides Serko with greater flexibility to both accelerate organic growth opportunities and execute potential acquisitions," chief executive Darrin Grafton said. "We have been very pleased with the level of support from our current shareholders and we welcome a number of new investors onto our register."

Last week, Serko raised its revenue expectations for the year ending March 31, 2019 for sales growth of 20-to-30 percent on 2018s $18.3 million. It had previously predicted sales growth of 15-to-30 percent.

The company posted its maiden profit in 2018 and has started expanding into the Northern Hemisphere where it sees new opportunities. Its shares have been in uncharted territory as investors were impressed by the successful execution of its plans last year, rising 30 percent so far this year which has seen it complete a secondary listing on the ASX.

Serko held cash and equivalents of $5.2 million as at March 31, generating a positive operating cash flow in the year of $1.4 million, compared to an outflow of $1.6 million a year earlier. The board has a policy of maintaining strong cash reserves and in its annual report, said directors would monitor Serkos capital requirements in light of the funding needed to execute growth opportunities both organic and inorganic.

(BusinessDesk)

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The DMK chief passed away at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai at 6:10 pm on Tuesday.

Leaders across the nation joined Tamil Nadu in mourning the death of one of its most illustrious sons, M Karunanidhi.

Messages have started pouring in after the news of Kalaignar's demise. Here are some of the instant reactions.

President Ram Nath Kovind:

Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: "My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace."

In a subsequent tweet, PM Modi said, "Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised.

Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadus voice was effectively heard. pic.twitter.com/l7ypa1HJNC  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

Rajinikanth, the superstar, who is all set to launch his very own political party in Tamil Nadu, mourned the demise of M Karunanidhi with a heart-wrenching tweet in Tamil which reads: "Today is a black day in my life, one which I can never forget as I lost my Kalaignar. I pray for his soul."

Conrad Sangma, Meghalaya CM, tweeted:

On behalf of the people of Meghalaya, I extend my deepest condolence on the demise M #Karunanidhi ji, whose ideals had motivated and infused energy amongst many young politicians of the country. May his soul rest in peace. @arivalayam @KanimozhiDMK  Conrad Sangma (@SangmaConrad) August 7, 2018

Amit Shah, National President, Bharatiya Janata Party, tweeted, Anguished to learn about the demise of veteran politician, M Karunanidhi ji. He had an impressive life journey, starting as a screen writer in Tamil film industry to being five term Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. No one can forget his struggle during Emergency, imposed in 1975.

Omar Abdullah, Former CM of Jammu & Kashmir, said, A legend in his lifetime, counted amongst the giants of the political landscape of India #Karunanidhi ji has left a void not just in his home state of Tamil Nadu but in the entire country that will never be filled. My condolences to his family & Tamils the world over.

K. Chandrasekhar Rao, Telangana Chief Minister, said with the demise of M. Karunanidhi, India has lost a political stalwart and it will be difficult to fill the void.

Rao expressed his deep condolences on the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and President of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).

In his condolence message, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief said that Karunanidhi was an undaunted political fighter and mass leader who struggled for the socio-economic development of marginalised sections of the society in Tamil Nadu.

Rao will leave for Chennai on Wednesday and participate in the last rites of Karunanidhi. The CM will personally pay tributes on behalf of Telangana people to late Karunanidhi, according to a statement from the Chief Minister's Office.

E.S.L. Narasimhan, Governor of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, also expressed his condolences on the demise of Karunanidhi.

Rahul Gandhi, President of the Indian National Congress, posted on Twitter:

Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight.#Karunanidhi  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 7, 2018

Shekhar Gupta, Journalist

RIP Kalaignar Karunanidhi. Among the last of the generations of titans of Indian politics. A secessionist-turned-nationalist who taught India to start trusting regional leaders and parties as patriots  Shekhar Gupta (@ShekharGupta) August 7, 2018

Shashi Tharoor, Writer and MP, Thiruvananthapuram, said "a giant of Indian politics as CM of Tamil Nadu & a screenplay writer who gave voice to the Dravidian movement through his immortal dialogues. Tamil politics can never be the same again. RIP.

Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal CM and Founder of All India Trinamool Congress, tweeted:

Today India lost one of its greatest sons. And Tamil Nadu lost its father figure. Farewell @Kalaignar89. My deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu, @arivalayam, @mkstalin, @KanimozhiDMK and family. India mourns your loss  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) August 7, 2018

Sarbabananda Sonowal, Chief Minister of Assam, offered his condolences and said:

Saddened by the demise of former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Kalaignar Karunanidhi, one of the tallest statesmen and mass leader of Indian politics.



I offer my condolences to the bereaved family and people of Tamil Nadu in this moment of grief.  Sarbananda Sonowal (@sarbanandsonwal) August 7, 2018

Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, tweeted:

Saddened to know about the demise of Thiru M.Karunanidhi. May His soul rest in peace. My deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu.  Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) August 7, 2018

Suresh Prabhu, Minister of Commerce and Industry, Civil Aviation, condoled the political stalwart's death. He said:
The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned the hearing on petitions challenging the validity of Article 35A. A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra observed that the apex court will look at whether Article 35A, which gives special status to the state and people of Jammu & Kashmir, violates the basic structure of the constitution. The basic structure here refers to fundamental rights, including the right to equality, non-discrimination, liberty, life and dignity which are included in the constitution.

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti expressed her thoughts stating that there is anxiety and panic in the state as the issue remains to be resolved.

Even though the deferment of hearing on Article 35 A is not a solution, it has brought interim relief to the people of JK. But with uncertainity looming over its status, it has unleashed a wave of anxiety and panic amongst the people of J & K.  Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) August 6, 2018

There was a state-wide shutdown called by separatists protesting the petitions that sought to scrap Article 35A. Several representatives of Kashmir-based trade bodies agreed to meet with Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL) and adhere to a strategy to protect the special status.

Article 35A grants the Jammu & Kashmir assembly carte blanche to define who permanent residents of the state are. According to the Jammu & Kashmir constitution, a permanent resident is defined as .

These permanent residents are given special rights and privileges  public sector jobs in the state, acquiring property in the state, eligibility for welfare programmes and scholarships.

Article 35A was added to the Indian constitution in 1954 by Presidential order by then President Rajendra Prasad on the advice of the Jawaharlal Nehru Cabinet. The provision allows the President to make exceptions and modifications to the constitution for the benefit of state subjects of Jammu & Kashmir.

A controversial aspect of this provision is that it was done bypassing Parliament which according to Article 368 (i) of the Constitution, can Parliament only amend the constitution.

The Nehru government did not place this provision for debate before Parliament and went straight to the President. Legally, the question as to whether a President can introduce a new article without Parliament remains open.

The Supreme Court in a 1961 judgment in Puranlal Lakhanpal vs. The President of India discusses Article 370; presidential powers to amend the constitution. It observed that the President may modify an existing provision in the Constitution under Article 370. The petitions

Article 35A is now being challenged in the apex court. A Delhi-based NGO named We the Citizens filed a petition in 2014 challenging the validity of Article 35A and Article 370.

Their argument  there are four representatives from Kashmir were part of the constituent assembly that helped draft the constitution and the state of Jammu & Kashmir was never given any special status. They argue that Article 370 was not meant to be used to bring permanent amendments, like 35A for example.

The petition cited that 35A was creating a class within a class of Indian citizens. Under Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the constitution, restricting people from other states from getting employment acquiring property within Jammu & Kashmir is a violation. Another controversial aspect of 35A is it being discriminatory against women.

A petition filed by a Jammu & Kashmir native, Charu Wali Khanna, a lawyer and former member of the National Commission for Women challenged certain provisions of 35A stating it restricts the basic right to property if a native woman of the state marries a man who does not have a permanent resident certificate.

Kashmiri political parties have warned of closing ranks if there is any attempt to scrap or dilute 35A. This issue has united political parties and local business communities alike. One leader of the Kashmir Economic Alliance was quoted as saying traders will fight tooth and nail to prevent the scraping of 35A. Dr Geer Mohammad Ishaq, General Secretary, Kashmir University Teachers Association, in a column for the Greater Kashmir writes that 35A is a matter of life and death 

The political situation in the state is not stable as it is after the resignation of Mehbooba Mufti recently. If 35A is scrapped, it will have a profound impact on the political landscape in the state. The PDP-BJP alliance was formed on the basis of protecting 35A. On Friday, more than 300 lawyers from Jammu passed a resolution to strengthen Article 35A.

The separatists will continue to claim the central government as undemocratic as they have done before. This could turn violent as well. For the state as a whole, a lot rests on the apex courts order on 35A. Dr. Ishaq summed it up in his column -

.

More columns by Varun Sukumar


The DMK wanted to bury Karunanidhi at Marina Beach along with several icons of Dravidian movement, but was denied permission by the AIADMK government. The DMK has now sought an urgent hearing with the chief justice of the Madras High Court. The decision to deny the burial space has also led to clashes in several places and the party's cadre were also lathi-charged outside the Kauvery Hospital

: A delegation of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam lawyers is at the residence of Madras High Court Acting Chief Justice HG Ramesh, asking for an emergency hearing of a petition demanding burial at Marina Beach.

DMK supporters and cadre chant "We want Marina!" outside Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence as the DMK patriarch's burial becomes the latest flashpoint betweent the ruling AIADMK and opposition DMK.

Tamil Nadu govt should not play politics over this. On such occasions, the govt and political parties should move above politics. Kalaignar should be given his due. He deserves the rightful place even after his demise: Congress Ghulam Nabi Azad on the AIADMK govt denying land for memorial of Karunanidhi at Marina beach.

Meanwhile, Karunanidhi's son and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam working president M K Stalin appealed to party cadre to maintain discipline.

'Do not give room for untoward incidents. Maintain peace,' said Stalin in a statement, adding, 'Hand over anti socials to police , they may attempt to tarnish DMK.'

He also urged DMK workers to 'cooperate with the police and prove that DMK follows military discipline'.
: Schools and colleges in Chennai remained shut due to the announcement of the seven-day state mourning in Tamil Nadu following the death of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi at the age of 94. Shops in Chennai and other parts of Tamil Nadu were also closed today and police security was beefed up across the state. The services of Karnataka State Transport Corporation to Tamil Nadu and all the omnibus services to Chennai were also stopped on a temporary basis.

As per official reports, all the government functions and cinema shows in Tamil Nadu that were scheduled on August 7 and August 8 in the state were cancelled. The Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) issued an order of the closure of all retail shops and bars by 6 pm earlier on Tuesday.

Kauvery Hospital reportedly said on Tuesday, Dr. M Karunanidhi passed away at 6.10 PM. Despite best efforts of our doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond.

94-year-old Karunanidhi was first admitted to the hospital on July 18 for a change of tracheostomy tube and an infection in the urinary tract. The DMK patriarch breathed his last on August 7, 2018.
After arguments came to an end it took around 20 minutes for the judges to dictate the orders giving the green signal for the burial.

DMK cadres cheered as the Madras High Court grants permission to the DMK to bury M Karunanidhi at Marina Beach next to Annadurai's memorial also called the the Anna Memorial.

The denial of space for Karunanidhi's burial at Marina by the state government triggered not just a political row, but also violence by DMK party cadres outside Kauvery Hospital, which prompted M K Stalin to appeal for peace.

The Madras High Court dismissed all pending petitions challenging burials on the Marina in Chennai as it resumed hearing on a petition by the DMK seeking allotment of space at the famous beach for laying to rest its leader M Karunanidhi.

Highlights of the hearing that is happening right now.

DMK's lawyer says 'You (state govt) have announced state mourning, why not give land for burial? There's no prohibition under Central Govt protocol to allot land at Marina beach for ex-CMs.

The DMK's lawyer says, "Anna, (Annadurai) who is the founder of the DMK, used to say my life and soul is Karunanidhi. Burying Karunanidhi next to Gandhi Mandapam cannot be termed as a decent burial."

"There are 1 crore DMK followers in Tamil Nadu out of a 7 crore population of the state. They will be offended if burial land is not allotted for Karunanidhi at Marina beach."

The Tamil Nadu government's lawyer responds saying DMK is pursuing political agenda by filing this case. Periyar was the tallest leader of Dravidian movement. Was he buried at Marina beach?"

The first bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G Ramesh and Justice S S Sundar dismissed the petitions, including one by social activist Traffic Ramaswamy, when it resumed hearing this morning. After a special sitting that commenced late last night, the court had adjourned the matter at 1.15 am for resumed hearing at 8 am.

The DMK filed a plea posing questions to the TN government, asking for reasons behind the denial of a burial spot for the DMK supremo at the Marina Beach. The Tamil Nadu government, which strictly opposed the allotment, was given time until Wednesday morning to prepare its answers. Here are the top five facts from the case:

The TN government said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications". The government, however, offered an alternative and said Karunanidhi could be laid to rest in a two-acre plot near Gandhi Mandapam -- a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. It also has memorials to other chief ministers including C. Rajagopalachari, also known as Rajaji, and K Kamaraj.

Initially, the only two Tamil Nadu chief ministers to have memorials at Marina beach were CN Annadurai, who launched the DMK and MG Ramachandran, who founded the AIADMK.

As per coastal regulation zone norms, which came up later, fresh construction or memorials within 500 metres from the waterfront have been banned.

However, the ruling AIADMK extended the privilege to J Jayalalithaa when she died in December 2016 by circumventing the ban. She was buried in the memorial of her mentor and former CM MG Ramachandran.

The DMK demands that the same privilege be extended to the late M Karunanidhi and that he should be laid to rest near the memorial of his political mentor and DMK founder, CN Annadurai at Chennai's Anna Square memorial.

Kalaignar Karunanidhi, DMK patriarch and five-time Tamil Nadu CM, breathed his last at Kauvery Hospital, where he was undergoing treatment for a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). He was admitted to the hospital on July 28. He is survived by three wives and six children.

From the hospital, Karunanidhi's body was shifted to his Gopalapuram residence, where it stayed until 1:00 am, following which it will be moved to his daughter, Kanimozhi's CIT Colony residence until 4:00 am.

More Sify stories on Karunanidhi


The demand was raised during a debate on the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill 2017 in the Upper House, which was passed by the Lok Sabha on August 2 superseding the amendments earlier carried out by the Rajya Sabha.

New Delhi : Parliament on Monday passed a bill to provide constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes, as several members in the Rajya Sabha urged the government to make public the findings of the caste census and implement reservation accordingly.

On Monday, the Upper House adopted the legislation along with the amendments made by the Lok Sabha, by 156 votes to nil. Over two-third majority of those present voted in favour of the bill, which is a necessity for amending the Constitution.

The Rajya Sabha had earlier passed the measure on July 31 last year, along with an amendment and sent it to the Lower House. The Lok Sabha had passed the bill last week with alternate amendments as well as some more changes unanimously with over two-third majority.

Replying to the debate on the bill, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thaawarchand Gehlot said it would help the backward classes people fight atrocities against them and ensure quick justice to them. "This bill would provide justice to the OBC people, it is the need of the hour," Gehlot said.

Referring to the suggestions by the opposition parties, he said the NCBC would have female representation.

He also assured that it would also not encroach upon the rights of state governments as they would have their own backward class commissions. "This commission has no relation with the state governments but is related to the Centre only."

He said the state governments had their own lists of castes of OBC people, while the Centre had its own. The NCBC would recommend only to the central government regarding inclusion or deletion of a particular caste in the list.

"This is an important issue. There was demand for a constitutional status to OBC Commission from the 1980s and Parliament had held discussions several times. It has been discussed by the Standing Committee," Gehlot said and urged the members to pass it expeditiously.

He said once the bill is passed by Parliament, the government would immediately form the commission.

Participating in the discussion on the constitutional amedment bill and the National Commission for Backward Classes (Repeal) Bill 2017, Bharatiya Janata Party MP Bhupender Yadav urged political parties to shun "vote politics" and support these measures.

He charged the Congress of sabotaging the issue earlier and said it had chance to rectify its mistake by ensuring passage of the Bill in the Rajya Sabha.

"Last time the bill fell in Rajya Sabha...UPA in its two terms failed to bring this amendment... OBC is a religion- neutral term and the Bill failed last time because politics defeated social justice," Yadav said.

He said the bill is long overdue and lamented that many states have not implemented 27 per cent reservation to the OBCs and added that parties should "rise above vote bank politics and work towards social justice".

Congress MP Chaya Verma sought reservation in Parliament and assemblies for OBCs said creamy layer should be removed. She asked the goverment how it will implement the quota when it was encouraging contractual jobs.

MP Narendra Jadhav demanded that the findings of the socio-economic caste census be made public. He said the Rohini Commission report and the census data should be

compared to prepare fresh data of OBCs.

ndian National Lok Dal MP Ram Kumar Kashyap said two panel members must be taken from extreme backward classes and there should be a bill for reservation in legislature for the OBCs.

Bahujan Samaj Party MP Ashok Sidharth allged that the motive behind the government to bring the Bill now was to woo the electorate in the ensuing assembly elections.

Rashtriya Janata Dal Manoj Kumar Jha expressed hope that this will create a level-playing field, while Telangana Rashtra Samithi MP B Prakash said no serious efforts have been made for caste-based census.

Communis Party of India-Marxist MP T K Rangarajan said mere acts will not do as they did not percolate down to the grassroot level, as recent data showed that only 7 out of 100 teachers in the Central Universities belonged to SC/ST and OBC categories.

Congress MP B K Hariprasad said although the government has made provision for a female member, it has left out representation for minorities.

Observing that that the Supreme Court has mandated that the qualification of the Chairperson, Vice Chairman and Members and prescribed that a former or sitting judge of the Supreme Court or high court should be the Chairman of the commission.

"But unfortunatley, there are hardly any OBC or SC judges in the Supreme Court. There may be some in the high courts," he said, adding there was a huge disparity in this matter.

MP Sambhaji Chhatrapati demanded that Marathas be included in the OBC list to get equal opportunity in jobs. "It is not clear that why Marathas have been excluded in one or the other commission," he said, adding they were identified as backward class by the British rulers also.

Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav also supported the bill and said the government should come out with the caste-based census and implement the reservations accordingly. He demanded that the reservation should also be extended to the judiciary.

While All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MP A Navaneethakrishnan supported the bill and sought removal of creamy layer from the OBC list, Trinamool Congress MP Ahamed Hassan said the bill unduly interfered with the affairs of the state governments.

AIADMK MP Vijila Sathyananth suggested that there should be one woman member and one member from minorities on board of the commission. She also pitched for representation from each region of the country.

She also drew attention towards skewed representation of OBCs in various committees, commissions, boards and other different fora of government.

BJP"s Ram Chandra Prasad Singh supported the bill and demanded for another such bill for highly backward classes, while Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said "we have to eliminate caste to strengthen country's political system."

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam MP T K S Elangovan said suggested that the word Governor should be replaced by government for consultation by the commission because government knows better about backward

classes in a state than an executive appointed. He also said that the power to list out OBCs should lie with the states.

Republican Party of India MP Ramdas Athawale sought that the total quota for backward classed should be increased from 50 per cent at present to 75 per cent.

COngress MP Ripun Bora also suggested that there should be representation of women and minorities in the commission, while CPI MP D Raja was of the view that there is no point of having commissions whose recommendations are not biding on the government.

He said "NITI Aayog is promoting public private partnership and privatisation of public sector undertakings. Where is the scope of reservation? The commission should not be devised to hoodwink people".

Congress MP Madhusudan Mistry said the commission should not suffer shortage of funds, while MP Ritabrata Banerjee was of the view that this bill interfered with the freedom of the state. Bodoland People's Front MP Biswajit Daimary also supported the bill.
In May, Trump had announced to withdraw from the Iranian nuclear deal. The reimposition of sanctions on Iran will have major impact on countries like India, with which it has traditional and historic trade relationship.

New York : United States President Donald Trump on Monday reimposed sanctions on Iran, which were lifted as part of the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, but said he remains open to forging a new 'more comprehensive' deal with the Islamic Republic.

"Today, the US is taking action to reimpose nuclear-related sanctions with respect to Iran that were lifted in connection with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action of July 14, 2015 (the JCPOA)," Trump said.

These actions include reimposing sanctions on Iran's automotive sector and on its trade in gold and precious metals, as well as sanctions related to the Iranian rial. These measures will take effect on August 7, 2018.

"All remaining US nuclear-related sanctions will resume effective November 5, 2018. These include sanctions targeting Iran's energy sector, including petroleum-related transactions, as well as transactions by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran," said the US president.

At the same time, Trump said he remains open to reaching a 'more comprehensive deal' that addresses the full range of the Iranian regime's malign activities, including its ballistic missile programme and its support for terrorism.

"The US welcomes the partnership of likeminded nations in these efforts," he added.

Reiterating that the US is fully committed to enforcing all of its sanctions, and will work closely with nations conducting business with Iran to ensure complete compliance, Trump warned that individuals or entities that fail to wind down activities with Iran risk severe consequences.

Trump said that many international firms have already announced their intent to leave the Iranian market, and several countries have indicated that they will reduce or end imports of Iranian crude oil.

"We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation," he said.

Beginning on Tuesday, sanctions will be reimposed on purchase or acquisition of US bank notes by Iran; transactions related to the Iranian rial, activities relating to Iran's issuance of sovereign debt and Iran's automotive sector. Sanctions will also be reimposed on Iran's trade in gold and other precious metals and graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software used in industrial processes, the White House said on Monday.

However, the remaining sanctions will be reimposed on November 5, including sanctions on Iran's port operators and energy, shipping, and shipbuilding sectors; Iran's petroleum-related transactions and transactions by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.

The Trump administration will also relist hundreds of individuals, entities, vessels, and aircraft that were previously included on sanctions lists, the White House said.

By doing so, the administration is implementing the decision made by President Trump in May when he ended US participation in the JCPOA.

Describing the JCPOA as 'a horrible, one-sided deal', Trump said that it failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb, and it 'threw a lifeline of cash to a murderous dictatorship that has continued to spread bloodshed, violence, and chaos'.

"Since the deal was reached, Iran's aggression has only increased. The regime has used the windfall of newly accessible funds it received under the JCPOA to build nuclear-capable missiles, fund terrorism, and fuel conflict across the Middle East and beyond," he said.

"To this day, Iran threatens the United States and our allies, undermines the international financial system, and supports terrorism and militant proxies around the world," he alleged.

By exiting the JCPOA, the US is able to protect its national security by applying maximum economic pressure on the Iranian regime, he said, adding that so far his administration has issued 17 rounds of Iran-related sanctions, designating 145 companies and individuals.

Since Trump's announcement on May 8 withdrawing the US from the JCPOA, his administration has sanctioned 38 Iran-related targets in six separate actions.

"Reimposition of nuclear-related sanctions through today's actions further intensifies pressure on Tehran to change its conduct," he added.

Alleging that Iran is currently witnessing civil unrest and economic woes, a senior Trump administration official told reporters that the president has been very clear: none of this needs to happen.

"He will meet with Iranian leadership at anytime to discuss a real, comprehensive deal that will contain their regional ambitions, will end their malign behaviour and deny them any paths to a nuclear weapon," the official said.

The White House said Trump will continue to stand up to the Iranian regime's aggression, and the US will fully enforce the reimposed sanctions.

According to the official, Trump's decision to withdraw from the Iran deal upheld his highest obligation: to protect the safety and security of the American people.

The administration is working with its allies to bring pressure on the Iranian regime to achieve an agreement that denies all paths to a nuclear weapon and addresses other malign activities, he added.
First round of US tariffs on Chinese goods to hit $50 bn Aug 23: USTR



Washington, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2018



The first round of President Donald Trump's 25 percent punitive tariffs on China will hit $50 billion in goods starting August 23, the government announced Tuesday.

Washington already imposed tariffs on $34 billion in Chinese products on July 6. But it held off on a final $16 billion as a result of concerns raised by US companies.

Although the move was expected, it cements the view that there appears to be no effort underway to defuse the dispute between the world's two largest economies.

China has already retaliated with duties of its own, and has pledged to match the US dollar for dollar with new tariffs.

The dispute has continued to escalate as the sides exchange threats, and Trump last week threatened to jack up the tariff rate on the next $200 billion in Chinese imports it plans to target to 25 percent, from the planned 10 percent.

China fired back warning it would impose duties on $60 billion in US goods.

The office of US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said its "exhaustive" investigation showed "China's acts, policies and practices related to technology transfer, intellectual property and innovation are unreasonable and discriminatory and burden US commerce."

USTR said there were 279 new goods to be targeted in the dispute over China's policies promoting theft of American technology.

Those include imports like motorcycles, tractors, railroad parts, electronic circuits, motors and farm equipment.

US industries and farmers have been caught in the crossfire, and the Trump administration announced $12 billion in aid to help farmers hurt by duties on crops such as soybeans.
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The legal division at the Foreign Relations department is responsible for all treaty and international legal related matters. It has an advisory and coordinating role and promotes the understanding of international agreements Sint Maarten is party to or will become party to.





Treaty information





Sint Maarten is party to many treaties. The Netherlands Antilles treaties (about 1500) still apply to Sint Maarten after the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010. A treaty, by definition is an international agreement between States, in written form and governed by international law. A treaty is signed by the Kingdom of the Netherlands but can apply to either all the parts of the Kingdom (Aruba, Curacao, the Netherlands, Caribbean Netherlands and St. Maarten) or the countries separately. Each individual part of the Kingdom can decide if the treaty should be effective for them or not. Sint Maarten can also negotiate its own treaties that fall under its autonomous scope of authority. Treaties that fall under article 3 of the Charter of the Kingdom of the Netherlands are to be considered Kingdom related matters.





Human Rights Treaties and reporting obligations





Sint Maarten is bound by various human rights treaties. Examples are; the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the International Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Racial Discrimination, the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women, the International Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms; the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, the European Social Charter and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.





For most of these treaties the country has a reporting obligation which means that on a periodic basis the government is required to indicate how far it is with respect to the implementation of all legal, administrative, policy and all necessary measures required to comply with the human rights treaties and to keep developing human rights standards in the country. Human Rights Platform, approved by the council of Ministers, was established to prepare, write and coordinate all Sint Maarten reports. Sint Maarten is required to submit a report that form part of the a wider Kingdom report which is submitted to the submitted to the United Nations Human Rights supervisory committees.





Publication





Treaties to which the Kingdom of the Netherlands is or will be party to are officially published in the Tractatenblad (Official Treaties Gazette). This Gazette contains treaty texts and other information pertaining to a particular treaty. A treaty that is in force for the Kingdom of the Netherlands will always have a treaty number. For example the Convention on the Rights of the Child treaty number is Trb.1990,46.

The Treaty Database (Verdragenbank) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, available in Dutch and English, contains all information about treaties. For the Dutch website please follow this link www.minbuza.nl/verdragen and for the English website please follow this link www.minbuza.nl/treaties









Other helpful links about treaties and Human Rights reports





International Organizations and other countries also publish treaty information on the internet.

See the links below:

Council of Europe ~ http://www.conventions.coe.int/

European Union ~ http://europa.eu/about-eu/basic-information/decision-making/treaties/index_en.htm

Hague Conference on Private International Law ~ http://www.hcch.net/index_en.php?act=conventions.listing

International Labor Organization ~ http://www.ilo.org/dyn/normlex/en/f?p=1000:12000:0::NO:::

United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights ~ http://www.ohchr.org/EN/HRBodies/Pages/TreatyBodies.aspx






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A brief history







In preparation for the transition towards becoming a country within the Kingdom, changes to legislation became necessary, both on Kingdom level, as well as on the level of future Country Sint Maarten. Anticipating, a number of legislative powers of the Country the Netherlands Antilles were already transferred to the Island Territory of Sint Maarten (P.B. 2009, no. 75; P.B. 2010, no.7 and 15).





On a Kingdom level, the Kingdom Act amending the Charter for the Kingdom of the Netherlands was drafted (In Dutch: Rijkswet wijziging Statuut in verband met de opheffing van de Nederlandse Antillen, Stb.2010, 333). This Kingdom Act regulated the necessary changes to Kingdom legislation, as well gave the future Country Sint Maarten the opportunity to draft its Constitution and fundamental legislation before the new status within the Kingdom was to take effect. Obtained by Royal Decree, the Kingdom Act came into force with effect from October 10th 2010, dissolving the Netherlands Antilles and creating Country Sint Maarten within the Kingdom.





Making use of the opportunity given by the Kingdom Act and its new legislative powers, the former Island Territory of Sint Maarten adopted thirty national ordinances, prior to 10-10-10. These ordinances deal with governing the structure of new country Sint Maarten and went into force on the day of the transition.

Valid legislation for Sint Maarten as per 10-10-10





As previously mentioned, the legislation that was in force for Island Territory Sint Maarten  both the island legislation as the Antilles legislation  remained in effect for Sint Maarten. Additional Article I of the Constitution of Sint Maarten (Staatsregeling van Sint Maarten) provides that the legislation that was in force before the dissolution continues to apply in Sint Maarten until it has been amended or revoked. The National Ordinance containing transitional legal and administrative provisions(Landsverordening overgangsbepalingen van wetgeving en bestuur) confirms the continued applicability of the legislation, provided that the legislation that no longer applies in Sint Maarten is listed in the second annex to the ordinance.





Pursuant to Article 60b of the Charter for the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which entered into force on September 16, 2010, the draft ordinances that have been enacted by the Island Council of Sint Maarten before the constitutional reform, gained the status of national ordinances as per October 10th, 2010. The National Ordinance containing transitional legal and administrative provisions is one of these ordinances.





As of 10-10-10 and under the National Ordinance containing transitional legal and administrative provisions, national ordinances, national decrees, containing general measures, and ministerial decisions with general effect, of the former Netherlands Antilles, have acquired the status of national ordinances, national decrees, containing general measures, and ministerial regulations of Sint Maarten. Island ordinances and island decrees, containing general measures, from the former Island Territory of Sint Maarten have acquired the status of national ordinances, respectively national decrees, containing general measures, of Sint Maarten.





Besides the legislation above, there are other legislative instruments which are also applicable to Sint Maarten:

The Charter for the Kingdom of the Netherlands;



Treaties and agreements with other states and with international organisations, insofar these are ratified for Sint Maarten;



Kingdom Acts and Orders in Council for the Kingdom;



Mutual arrangements as referred to in Article 38(1) of the Charter for the



Kingdom, to the extent that these are granted legal force by a competent body of Sint Maarten;



Mutual arrangements as referred to in Article 38(2) of the Charter for the Kingdom;



Legislation, which has entered into effect for Sint Maarten since 10-10-10.



The Government of Sint Maarten has decided to make the text of all legislation, containing generally binding regulations, digitally available to the public. These texts are published on the official Government website.





DISCLAIMER: The electronic versions of all legislation on this website and any legislation printed from this website (a) have no official status and (b) are made available for information purposes only. These texts should not be relied on as the authoritative text. The official publication, as referred to in the National ordinance on publication and entry into force, remains the publication in the Official Publication (Afkondigingsblad) and the National Gazette (Landscourant). While care is taken to ensure its accuracy and currency, legislation produced on this website is not the official authorised version.




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Join the Journey!

With our new status as country St.Maarten, we the people now have the opportunity to reflect on the current situation and take decisions as to how best to collectively work together to achieve our common goals represented in a National Development Plan. The government of St. Maarten has sought the assistance of the United Nations Development Program to provide technical support in our nations National Development Plan. With the help of you, the community we can create a National Development Plan and work together to continue to build country St.Maarten!








Page Content





What is Money laundering?

Money laundering is the process by which criminals attempt to conceal the illegal origin of the proceeds of their criminal activity (drug dealing, weapons dealing, human trafficking, kidnapping, etc.) allowing them to maintain control over the proceeds and ultimately, providing a legitimate cover for their sources of income.





What is terrorism financing?

Contrary to money laundering where the origin of the proceeds come solely from illegal activities, terrorists organizations also raise funding from legitimate sources, including the abuse of charitable entities or legitimate businesses. Terrorists use a wide variety of methods to move money within and between organizations, including the financial sector, the non-financial sector, cash couriers and the movement of goods through the trade system.

Financing of terrorism is described as a behaviors as referred to in the International Treaty of New York with regard to combating terrorism financing, signed on December 9th, 1999(Tractatenblad 2000, no. 12; Tractatenblad 2002, no. 110)





Why should we act against money laundering and the financing of terrorism?

Together with the Netherlands and Aruba, the Netherlands Antilles take part in the work of the Financial Action Task Force on money laundering, (the FATF). The FATF, is an inter-governmental organization which sets standards, develops and promotes policies to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. The member states are obliged to incorporate the recommendations of the FAFT in their national legislation.





The recommendations cover among others:

International co-operation including mutual legal assistance and extradition;

Measures to be taken by financial institutions and non-financial businesses and professions to prevent money laundering and the financing of terrorism, including:

-customer due diligence and record keeping

-reporting of unusual transactions to a FIU or MOT





Countermeasures are taken against member states that do not comply with the FATFs recommendations. These countermeasures include among others: warning the different sectors against doing business with non-compliant countries, because of the danger of money laundering or the financing of terrorism and the limiting of both business relations as well as financial transactions with non-compliant countries. The objective of these countermeasures is to maintain and protect the integrity of the financial system in the FATF countries. Therefore the Sint Maarten is compelled to uphold the integrity of their financial systems. In doing this, criminal persons and/or organizations are prevented to misuse the Sint Maartens financial system to launder money or to finance terrorism. Sint Maartens is also a member of the Caribbean counterpart of the FATF; the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force, the CFATF.





The laws and legislation's which where written for the Netherlands Antilles remained relevant for Country Sint Maarten even after the Netherlands Antilles

was dissolved as per 10-10-10 . They will continue to remain in effect until revisions are made if so required.

As new Legislation , laws or ordinance are published which pertain to the reporting of unusual transactions they will be publish on this website.

Reporting of Unusual Transactions are made they will be posted on the web site.





Legislation's, ordinances were written and published to ensure that both the financial and non financial institutions were informed of there obligation to report any unusual transactions and the consequence of not reporting unusual transaction.

The ordinance are located under the legislation web page.
Page Content

The Department of Domain Affairs deals with all aspects of policy and administration in regards to government lease land and real property in the broadest sense of the word.





Services and responsibilities of the Department of Domain Affairs consist of Management of government domains (land) including:

New long lease issuance;



Renewal of long lease;



Transfers of long lease title;



A uthorize change in long lease;



Establish Lease agreements (Dutch:  Huurovereenkomst );



Right of superficies (Dutch:  Opstalrecht );



Execution of sale and purchase of land





Vision:

The vision of Domain Affairs is to fulfill the dream of owning your own home or business through offering lease-property, legal protection for the customer and informing the public. The department therefore operates in a customer friendly manner with an up to date registration system and capable personnel.

Mission:

The mission of Domain Affairs is to offer services to internal and external clients by offering direct, transparent and accurate information and handling of all aspects of the land policy. This is done by educated and experienced personnel in a professional and client friendly office environment with the help of adequate information sources including recourses, processes, procedures and systems.

Organizational:

To ensure an optimal mana gement of domain land and real property of Sint Maarten.

The purchase and sale of land and buildings in a business economically justifiable manner.





Main tasks:
Page Content

The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) an executing department of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, the Department of Labour, would like to inform the Sint Maarten community that World Breastfeeding Week comes to a conclusion on April 7 after being observed around the globe from August 1 under the theme, Foundation of Life.

CPS encourages our local women population to make breastfeeding a priority once their child is born as it has life-long benefits for the new-born child. Consider situations for which we have no control of, such as in natural disasters, breastfeeding becomes even more important and has been proven to save lives. Breastmilk is the cleanest and safest food for an infant.

Children who were breastfed are healthier and learn better, according to research that suggests breastfeeding may contribute to aspects of sustainable development, according to information from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

According to PAHO: Breastfeeding gives all human beings the opportunity to have a fair start in life. Breast milk is the best food and the safest option to ensure good health and growth of young children.

There is strong evidence demonstrating the multiple benefits of breastfeeding for the mother, the child and society as a whole.

In the region of the Americas 54% of children start breastfeeding within the first hour of life, only 38% are breastfed exclusively until six months of age, and 32% continue breastfeeding for two years.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says an estimated 78 million babies  or three in five  are not breastfed within the first hour of life, putting them at higher risk of death and disease and making them less likely to continue breastfeeding. The aforementioned is based on a report from UNICEF and WHO.

The WHO says the report notes that newborns who breastfeed in the first hour of life are significantly more likely to survive. Even a delay of a few hours after birth could pose life-threatening consequences.

Skin-to-skin contact along with suckling at the breast stimulate the mothers production of breastmilk, including colostrum, also called the babys first vaccine, which is extremely rich in nutrients and antibodies, WHO says.

Breastfeeding contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), approved by the United Nations in September 2015 as a global agenda for action to end poverty, fight inequality and tackle climate change by 2030.

CPS supports and promotes breastfeeding. Contact the Breastfeeding Committee at telephone nr 542-3003 and look out for the next Breastfeeding Cafe.




Page Content

Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (ECYS) Wycliffe Smith submitted his report on the Cochabamba Regional Conference of ministers of education from Latin America and the Caribbean to Parliament and the Council of Ministers on Wednesday, 1 August 2018. The trip, which was paid for and organized by UNESCO, was held in Cochabamba, Bolivia, from July 25-26, 2018. In keeping with recent budgets cuts, Minister Smith was happy to be able to attend these important high level meetings without it being a financial burden to the country.





The meetings were convened to discuss the way forward concerning the UN 2030 Education agenda, which is a plan to promote the development and quality of education by the year 2030. Smith also participated in some high-level technical meetings for the leadership of Departments of Education prior to the beginning of the conference.





From those discussions, Smith made a presentation at the ministerial conference concerning the challenges of education on Sint Maarten, being part of a small twin-island nation. Smith highlighted two major challenges: the lack of human capacity and insufficient funds. He also established contact with colleague ministers of Aruba, Suriname and Antigua.





At the end of the Cochabamba Conference, all ministers signed an agreement which establishes the adoption of the Regional Roadmap for the Implementation of SDG4-E2030 in Latin America and the Caribbean, an instrument that will support the countries efforts to achieve the targets of Sustainable Development Goal 4, which refers to lifelong quality, inclusive, equitable education.





Minister Smith in his report indicated how the policies and goals of the Governing Program must be aligned with the Regional Roadmap for Sint Maarten to be on target with the internationally-agreed goals for education by 2030. It is expected that there will be collaboration and strengthening of the relevant departments, divisions and ministries to ensure that lifelong learning will be afforded to all on Sint Maarten.





Photo Caption: Honorable Minister Wycliffe Smith with a copy of his report on the Cochabamba Conference in hand.




System error

error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.

context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

/usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951

/var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17

/usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149



Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 129 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 160 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd415c580)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd432d208)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd415c580)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1305 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 958 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd432d208)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd4172a78)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1303 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 436 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd432d208)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd432d208)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd37b04c0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fd425b0b0)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fd425b0b0)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
System error

error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.

context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

/usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951

/var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17

/usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149



Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 129 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 160 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd3c83038)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd3e23f88)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd3c83038)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1305 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 958 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd3e23f88)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd3c92208)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1303 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 436 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd3e23f88)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd3e23f88)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd37b03a0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fd3ba10f8)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fd3ba10f8)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
System error

error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.

context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

/usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951

/var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17

/usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149



Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 129 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 160 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd4a2b348)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd4a2aa50)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd4a2b348)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1305 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 958 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd4a2aa50)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd4a247e0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1303 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 436 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd4a2aa50)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd4a2aa50)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd37b08e0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fd4a22480)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fd4a22480)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
System error

error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.

context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

/usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951

/var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17

/usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149



Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 129 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 160 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd4629ea0)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd46479b8)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd4629ea0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1305 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 958 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd46479b8)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 138 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x7f3fd45aa1e0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1303 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1295 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 484 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 436 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd46479b8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd46479b8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f3fd37affb0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fcddf4310)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f3fcddf4310)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
Indian intelligence agencies have warned the government that terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and Hizbul Mujahideen could be planning to carry out terror strikes in Jammu and New Delhi during the nations Independence Day celebrations on August 15,

Security measures at the Delhi Metro and the Indira Gandhi International airport have been stepped up with the induction of over 600 new security personnel and commuters are being frisked in view of the heightened vigil in the run-up to the Independence Day, officials said.

While passengers in the Delhi Metro are being frisked twice before entering stations, additional quick reaction teams (QRTs) and flying squads have been deployed at select stations that witness a heavy footfall or are important from the security point of view, local media said.

The Central Industrial Security Force, that is tasked to secure over 210 stations of the metro in the national capital region, has enhanced the number of security personnel in the network to keep a better eye on the people and their luggage, the officials said.

About 500 CISF personnel have been deployed additionally in the Delhi Metro network as part of the stepped-up security measures in the wake of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15, a senior official said.

A new control room, armed with over 5,000 CCTVs and other smart tools, has recently been commissioned for the CISF and it will help us in better monitoring operations at stations under its surveillance cover, the official said.

Special teams of mufti-wearing intelligence and passenger profiling sleuths have been deployed at various stations and they have been asked to keep an eye on a few stations by continuously moving between them, another official said on the condition of anonymity.

The officials said similar measures have been deployed at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport and passengers are randomly being made to undertake a second frisking, called the secondary ladder point check (SLPC).

Last week Jammu police foiled a major plot of suicide terror attacks in New Delhi and other places during the Independence Day celebrations by arresting a terrorist there. The police said the arrested man was on his way to the national capital carrying 8 live grenades.

IGP (Jammu Range) SD Singh Jamwal said on Monday the terrorist carrying the live grenades, Rs 60,540 in cash and incriminating documents was arrested on Sunday evening as he was spotted moving in a suspicious condition in the posh locality of Gandhi Nagar.

The IGP said the arrested terrorist had been identified as Irfan Hassan Wani of the Ansar-Gazwat-ul-Hind outfit. He is a resident of Dangerpura in Anantnag district of south Kashmir.

Initial interrogation of the terrorist is learned to have revealed that he was on his way to Delhi to meet some terrorists and plan the attacks. He has reportedly been sent to the joint interrogation centre for further questioning.

In London, the Indian diaspora has strongly criticised a Pakistan sponsored anti-India protest planned by pro-Khalistan Sikhs on August 12.

It is alleged that Pakistan's spy agency, the ISI, has drawn up elaborate plans to embarrass India during the 71st Independence Day functions in London.

British businessman and philanthropist of Indian origin, Rami Ranger said in his tweet: "A rally planned by an unelected and self-appointed handful of Sikhs from around the world for Independence on August 12th, 2018 in London is unwelcomed by the majority of Sikhs. A counter demonstration is planned by pro-India supporters which can result in disturbance".

He said in another tweet: "These handful of Sikhs are an embarrassment to Sikhs at large and also an impediment to progress in Punjab".

Many people have expressed their views by raising objections on pro-Khalistan rallies in the UK.

They raised questions by saying: "#Khalistan supporters are planning to do a global rally in London and many parts of the world for a referendum to vote for the creation of Khalistan, but they don't protest for a recent Sikh massacre in Afghanistan? They don't protest for Pakistani Sikh policeman who was humiliated?"

Sikhs for Justice, a pro-Khalistan group recently revealed its plan for August 12 by holding a joint press conference with Kashmiri separatists in London.

"On August 12, we will unveil the case for Sikhs right to self-determination as guaranteed in the UN Charter and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights", said Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, legal advisor of Sikhs for Justice.

In Pakistan, reports said Imran Khan, who is set to become the countrys new prime minister, may take an oath of the office on the country's Independence Day on 14 August.

Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) emerged as the single largest party in the 25 July elections, winning 116 National Assembly seats out of the contested 270 parliamentary constituencies.

The country is also being swept up in a new patriotic fervor triggered by the latest polls and a new administration.

People belonging to every walk of life especially youngsters busy in decorating their houses and vehicles with national flags as the nation starts preparations to celebrate Independence Day, reported AAP.

A report aired by a private news channel said the capital is wearing green and white look with national flags at each nook and corner while stalls of different Azadi accessories are surrounded by youngsters who are eagerly waiting for the Independence Day (I-Day) celebrations to commence.

Many families have covered rooftops of their cars and hind screens with the national flags.

A roadside vendor Mohammad Zubair said people especially children and youth keep visiting from morning till night to buy the items required by them to celebrate Independence Day.

Different public and private departments will hold special functions and activities including seminars, discussion programmes, photographic exhibitions, painting, poetry, national songs and debate competitions with the focus on acknowledging the contribution of leaders of Pakistan movement and sacrifices of national heroes
California scorched by raging wildfires the size of LA



San Francisco, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2018



Tens of thousands of firefighters on Tuesday were battling relentless flames ripping across California, as the death toll from a series of infernos that first erupted last month hit 11.

The raging Mendocino Complex fire comprised of twin blazes in the western state's north ravaged more than 290,000 acres (117,359 hectares) -- approximately the size of sprawling Los Angeles -- in less than two weeks, becoming California's largest wildfire ever recorded since bookkeeping began a century ago.

Some 14,000 firefighers including reinforcements from as far as Australia and New Zealand have arrived to combat the firestorm devouring broad swaths of the state.

The River Fire of the Mendocino Complex is 78 percent contained, having burned 48,920 acres -- but its partner blaze the Ranch Fire has grown to 241,772 acres and is just 20 percent contained.

Limited access, heavy fuel loads, low fuel and high temperatures were all impeding firefighters' efforts to rein in the conflagration, the state's CalFire authority said.

Helicopters and airplanes, including two massive DC-10s and a 747 jumbo jet, were supporting firefighters by dousing the flames with water.

Two people have died in the inferno, taking to 11 the number of people killed by major fires that are becoming something of a constant in the fire-prone state.

The Carr Fire to the north has meanwhile engulfed 167,113 acres since igniting July 23 and killing seven people thus far.

Firefighters have managed to get it 47 percent contained, challenged by varying wind patterns and rough terrain that includes steep drainages.

Another major fire, Ferguson, has left two dead and forced the closure of part of the Yosemite national park, and is currently only 38 percent contained.

Several thousand people have been evacuated, although some have been given permission in recent days to return to their homes.

The Mendocino Complex is the second fire to break records in California in as many years, following the Thomas Fire in December 2017 that destroyed 281,893 acres.

"This is part of a trend -- a new normal -- that we got to deal with," the state's governor Jerry Brown told journalists of the "horrific" wildfires.



- Climate change effects -



In the state's south near San Diego hundreds of personnel were deploying to tackle the fast-moving Holy Fire in the Cleveland National Forest.

After igniting in a relatively small area on Monday afternoon it mushroomed to 4,000 acres and was not contained at all as of Tuesday morning, according to the US Forest Service.

Two other national forests in the counties of Los Angeles and Ventura were on high alert because of searing temperatures, strong winds and parched vegetation.

"If fire ignition occurs, conditions are favorable for very rapid fire spread," the National Weather Service warned in a statement, saying "extreme fire behavior" could "threaten life and property."

On Monday the Pentagon said it would send 200 soliders to assist firefighters in fending off the flames, many of which have encroached on federal lands.

In a series of eyebrow-raising tweets President Donald Trump meanwhile suggested environmental laws -- rather than climate change -- was to blame for the spike in wildfires devastating parts of the west.

"California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized," he said Monday. "It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading!"

The Republican president infuriated much of the international community last year when he withdrew from the Paris climate change pact, intended to combat global warming by reducing emissions.

His missive drew exasperated sighs from many including authorities at CalFire: "We have plenty of water to fight these wildfires," Daniel Berlant, the agency's assistant deputy director, told The New York Times.

"Let's be clear: It's our changing climate that is leading to more severe and destructive fires."
California scorched by raging wildfires the size of LA



San Francisco, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2018



Tens of thousands of firefighters battled relentless flames ripping across California on Tuesday, as the death toll from a series of infernos that erupted last month hit 11.

The raging Mendocino Complex fire comprising twin blazes in the western state's north has now ravaged more than 290,000 acres (117,359 hectares) -- approximately the size of sprawling Los Angeles -- in less than two weeks, becoming California's largest wildfire since record-keeping began a century ago.

Some 14,000 firefighters including reinforcements from as far away as Australia and New Zealand are combating the firestorm devouring broad swaths of the state.

The River Fire of the Mendocino Complex is 78 percent contained, having burned 48,920 acres. But its partner blaze the Ranch Fire has grown to 241,772 acres and is just 20 percent contained.

Limited access, heavy fuel loads, low fuel moisture and high temperatures were all impeding firefighters' efforts to rein in the conflagration, the state's CalFire authority said.

The overall Mendocino Complex fire has destroyed at least 143 structures, 75 of them residences. More than 11,000 other structures are threatened, according to CalFire said.

The Ranch fire, which poses the biggest challenge, has swept across natural barriers like rivers, and a ditch dug with earth-moving machinery.

Helicopters and airplanes, including two massive DC-10s and a 747 jumbo jet, were supporting firefighters by dousing the flames with water.

Two people have died in that inferno alone, taking to 11 the number of people killed by major fires that are becoming something of a constant in the fire-prone state.

The Carr Fire to the north has meanwhile engulfed 167,113 acres since igniting July 23, killing seven people thus far.

Firefighters have managed to get it 47 percent contained, challenged by varying wind patterns and rough terrain that includes steep drainages. At one point, it even whipped up a tornado of orange flame.

Another major fire, Ferguson, has left two people dead and forced the closure of part of the Yosemite National Park. It is currently only 38 percent contained.

Several thousand people have been evacuated, although some have been given permission in recent days to return home.

The weather forecast for the rest of the week is for more hot, dry weather of the kind that helps fire spread.

The Mendocino Complex is the second fire to break records in California in as many years, following the Thomas Fire in December 2017 that destroyed 281,893 acres.

"This is part of a trend -- a new normal -- that we got to deal with," Governor Jerry Brown told journalists of the "horrific" wildfires.



- Climate change effects -



In the state's south near San Diego, hundreds of personnel were deploying to tackle the fast-moving Holy Fire in the Cleveland National Forest.

After igniting in a relatively small area on Monday afternoon, it mushroomed to 4,000 acres and spreading unmitigated, according to the US Forest Service.

Two other national forests in the counties of Los Angeles and Ventura were on high alert because of searing temperatures, strong winds and parched vegetation.

"If fire ignition occurs, conditions are favorable for very rapid fire spread," the National Weather Service warned in a statement, saying "extreme fire behavior" could "threaten life and property."

On Monday, the Pentagon said it would send 200 soldiers to assist firefighters in fending off the flames, many of which have encroached on federal lands.

In a series of eyebrow-raising tweets, President Donald Trump suggested environmental laws -- rather than climate change -- was to blame for the spike in wildfires devastating parts of the west.

"California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized," he said Monday. "It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading!"

The Republican president infuriated much of the international community last year when he withdrew from the Paris climate change pact, intended to combat global warming by reducing emissions.

His missive drew exasperated sighs from many, including CalFire.

"We have plenty of water to fight these wildfires," Daniel Berlant, the agency's assistant deputy director, told The New York Times.

"Let's be clear: It's our changing climate that is leading to more severe and destructive fires."
Sorry Elon Musk, but it's now clear that colonising Mars is unlikely







London, UK (The Conversation) Aug 06, 2018





Space X and Tesla founder Elon Musk has a vision for colonising Mars, based on a big rocket, nuclear explosions and an infrastructure to transport millions of people there. This was seen as highly ambitious but technically challenging in several ways. Planetary protection rules and the difficulties of terraforming (making the planet hospitable by, for example, warming it up) and dealing with the harsh radiation were quoted as severe obstacles. Undeterred, Musk took a first step towards his aim in ... read more
NATO probing reports nine Afghan police killed in US air strike



Pule Alam, Afghanistan, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2018



NATO is investigating reports that at least nine Afghan police officers were killed in a US air strike during heavy fighting with the Taliban in eastern Afghanistan, its mission said Tuesday.

Afghan officials have confirmed the deaths, with interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi saying nine police were killed and 14 wounded in the aerial bombardment in Azra district of Logar province.

During the hours-long battle with insurgents overnight, police "called in air support but unfortunately foreign forces mistakenly bombed their positions", Rahimi said.

The Taliban also suffered heavy losses, he added.

Provincial council chief Hamidullah Hamid told AFP "foreign forces" had mistakenly bombed two police checkpoints and killed "about 15 police".

Resolute Support, NATO's mission in Afghanistan, confirmed US forces had conducted an air strike "in defense of Afghan forces" in Azra district but did not mention casualties.

"We are looking into the matter further," spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Martin O'Donnell told AFP.

The US is the only international force known to be carrying out air strikes in Afghanistan. The Afghan air force also carries out some attacks.

There are about 14,000 US ground troops in Afghanistan, making up the bulk of NATO's mission to support and train local forces.

Some of the US forces are involved in counter-terrorism operations, particularly against the Islamic State jihadist group.
North Korea foreign minister visits Iran



Tehran, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2018



Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif met with his North Korean counterpart Ri Yong Ho on Tuesday, on the same day the US reimposed nuclear-related sanctions on the Islamic republic.

Zarif welcomed Ri and a team of officials at the foreign ministry in Tehran, but no statement was made to reporters.

Ri is on a two-day visit to Tehran, and is due to meet with President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday.

Fars news agency said the two sides discussed "bilateral relations and regional issues in the Middle East", without giving further details.

The visit coincided with the United States reimposing sanctions on Iran after President Donald Trump abandoned a 2015 multilateral nuclear deal in May.

The US is currently also pushing Pyongyang to scrap its nuclear capabilities after Trump and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un agreed a vague commitment to "denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula" at their landmark summit in June.

A UN panel of experts has expressed concern over military collaboration between Iran and North Korea in the past.

In a 2017 report, it noted the presence of designated North Korean weapons traffickers living in Tehran and the similarity between missile designs in the two countries.

Ri was present alongside a high-level Iranian delegation at a meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement in Baku, Azerbaijan in April, according to Pyongyang's official KCNA news agency.

A North Korean delegation also attended President Hassan Rouhani's inauguration in August 2017.
Spanish jet accidentally fires missile above Estonia: defence ministry



Madrid, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2018



Spain's defence ministry said Tuesday it has opened an investigation after one of its Eurofighter jets accidentally fired a missile in the skies over Estonia during a routine training mission.

"A Spanish Eurofighter based in Lithuania accidentally fired a missile without causing any harm," the ministry said in a statement, adding that the incident happened Tuesday afternoon "in an area of southwest Estonia authorised for this type of exercise".

"The air-to-air missile has not hit any aircraft. The defence ministry has opened an investigation to clarify the exact cause of the incident," it added.

Two Spanish Eurofighter jets, and two French Mirage 2000 jets, were taking part in the training exercise, the ministry said. After the incident the jets returned an air base in Siauliai in northern Lithuania where they are based.
Mattis supports creation of command dedicated to space



Washington, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2018



US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said Tuesday he "absolutely" agrees the Pentagon should create a new command dedicated to space, but he stopped short of fully endorsing President Donald Trump's order to create a whole new Space Force.

Trump in June ordered the creation of Space Force, which he said would become the sixth branch of the US military, arguing the Pentagon needs a dedicated service to tackle vulnerabilities in space and assert US dominance in orbit.

The Pentagon is expected this week to present Congress with proposals for how it will carry out Trump's order.

According to a draft copy of that report, obtained by the Defense One military news site, Pentagon planners are outlining a series of steps towards a Space Force.

Though the creation of a new branch of the military requires congressional approval, the Pentagon is proposing to create a new "combatant command," called US Space Command, that would be dedicated to space.

The vast US military divides the globe into combatant commands, such as Central Command in the Middle East or Indo-Pacific Command in Asia, and so a new Space Command would have the same profile as these.

A Pentagon reporter asked Mattis if he supported the creation of Space Command.

"Yes, absolutely," Mattis said.

"We need to address space as a developing, war-fighting domain and a combatant command is certainly one thing that we can establish."

Mattis last year voiced skepticism on the need to create a separate Space Force.

In a letter to a US congressman, he said he did "not wish to add a separate service that would likely present a narrower and even parochial approach to space operations," adding it would create extra bureaucracy and cost for the Pentagon.

Mattis said Tuesday the Pentagon is "in complete alignment with the president's concern about protecting our assets in space," but he did not elaborate on whether he supported building a whole new branch of the military.

"We're working it up. What that actual organization will look like -- it will be fit for purpose is what I can assure you. But I don't have all the final answers yet. We're still putting that together," he said.

The effort to build a new military branch for space highlights the critical dependence the armed services have on space for many aspects of warfighting.

GPS systems are built into many military technologies and a network of sensors and satellites floating in orbit provide continual and vital intelligence.
Post-Brexit Britain's military will remain 'tier one,' minister says



Washington, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2018



British Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson insisted Tuesday that Britain's military will not be diminished after it leaves the European Union next year.

"Britain leaving the European Union has no impact in terms of the security and defense of Europe," Williamson said in a speech at the Atlantic Council in Washington.

"Britain is a major global actor. We have always been a tier one military power and we always will be a tier one military power," he added.

Williamson's comments come after Prime Minister Theresa May in June reportedly declined to commit to saying Britain would remain a "tier one" military power in the future, amid ongoing uncertainty about Britain's post-Brexit economy and international relationships.

In a speech largely aimed at convincing American counterparts that Britain remains a dependable partner despite the chaos surrounding Brexit negotiations, Williamson said that leaving the EU provided Britain with an opportunity to "redefine" its place in the world.

"In some ways, the European Union has limited our vision, discouraged us from looking to the horizon," he said.

"Now we are being freed to reach further and aim higher. The UK Is determined to seize these new opportunities."

Williamson then met with US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis at the Pentagon.

Mattis wrote to Williamson this summer urging Britain, which already meets the two percent of GDP spending pledge for NATO members, to kick in more cash or risk being supplanted by France as America's closest military ally in Europe.

Mattis said the letter was "meant as an additive effort in support of our allies."

Some observers in Britain suggested Williamson had solicited the letter to add ammunition to his calls for more defense spending.

Mattis declined to say if Williamson had asked him to write the letter.

"This is the normal collaboration, the normal consultation between allies is what this is," he said.
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Wisekey International Holding SA /WISeKey to Present at the Oppenheimer's Annual Technology, Internet & Communications Conference on August 8th in Boston . Processed and transmitted by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions.The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

WISeKey to Present at the Oppenheimer's Annual Technology, Internet & Communications Conference on August 8th in Boston

ZUG, Switzerland - August 07, 2018 - WISeKey International Holding Ltd ("WISeKey", SIX: WIHN, OTCQX: WIKYY), a leading cybersecurity and IoT company, today announced that James Livingston, Vice President of Sales & Business Development, will present at the Oppenheimer's Annual Technology, Internet & Communications Conference on August 8, 2018 at 9:45am ET, at the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston.

The presentation will not be webcast; however, investors will be able to download the most recent investor presentation via the Investors section of WISeKey's website, www.wisekey.com . Additionally, James Livingston, Vice President of Sales & Business Development, will host one-on-one meetings with investors throughout the day.

About WISeKey:

WISeKey (SIX Swiss Exchange: WIHN, OTCQX: WIKYY) is a leading global cybersecurity company currently deploying via a Virtual Platform large scale digital identity ecosystem. WISeKey's Swiss based cryptographic RoT ("RoT") and IoT Microchips provides secure authentication and identification, in both physical and virtual environments, for the Internet of Things, Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence. The WISeKey RoT serves as a common trust anchor to ensure the integrity of online transactions among objects and between objects and people. For more information, visit www.wisekey.com.

To receive WISeKey's latest news visit the WISeKey Investors Corner.

Press and investor contacts:

WISeKey International Holding Ltd

Company Contact: Carlos Moreira

Chairman & CEO

Tel: +41 22 594 3000

info@wisekey.com WISeKey Investor Relations (US)

Contact: Lena Cati

The Equity Group Inc.

Tel: +1 212 836-9611

lcati@equityny.com

Disclaimer:

This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of article 652a or article 1156 of the Swiss Code of Obligations or a listing prospectus within the meaning of the listing rules of the SIX Swiss Exchange. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.
Shares is the leading weekly publication for retail investors. It is packed with investment ideas, news and educational material to help build and run portfolios and get more from your money.

Shares puts on free Investor Events throughout the year across the country. They provide an opportunity for investors to learn more about companies on the stock market and hear from a range of investment experts including fund managers and Shares journalists.
In mid-2018 France approved a defense budget for 2019-25 that concentrates on greatly increasing spending for procurement and also reaching the NATO goal of each member spending at least two percent of GDP on defense. Of more immediate importance is getting new equipment. By 2025 France will have received or have ordered four SSNs (nuclear attack submarines), five new frigates and nine offshore patrol boats. The air force will have received 28 Rafale fighters, upgraded 55 older Mirage 2000 fighters and obtained twelve aerial tankers. The ground forces will get 1,700 new armored vehicles plus much new equipment for the infantry and special operations forces as well as more money for training and to support overseas peacekeeping and counter-terror operations. This means more spending on intelligence as well. All this makes France the first major NATO member in many years to return to spending at least two percent of GDP on defense. France is currently spending 1.78 percent. In Europe, only one other major nation (Britain) never fell below two percent.

The new French defense spending plan comes after a year (2017) when NATO countries reversed years of declining defense spending (as a percentage of GDP) and NATO members (other than the U.S.) increased defense spending by nearly 5 percent. That drove overall NATO defense spending to $957 billion and that should pass a trillion dollars in the next few years. The United States still accounts for most (72 percent) of total NATO defense spending even though the U.S. accounts for only 51 percent of total NATO GDP. This reversal in defense spending was expected since 2014 when Russia became a real (rather than potential) threat with its invasion of Ukraine and threats to NATO countries in East Europe, especially those that border Russia.

It took a while for NATO members to respond. Defense spending decreased from $943 billion in 2014 to $893 billion in 2015 and took a smaller dip in 2016. As has long been the case most of the defense spending is by the United States and a two percent drop in American spending in 2015 accounted for most of the decline. Meanwhile, East European NATO members are increasing spending, two of them (Lithuania and Poland) by over 20 percent in one year. Currently, 64 percent of NATO members are increasing defense spending but only 18 percent of the 28 member nations spend two or more percent of GDP on defense and most of these are in East Europe. The is the goal for all nations but most NATO members are still cutting defense budgets as they have been doing since the Cold War ended in 1991. The Russians have noticed this and are encouraged to continue their aggression against Ukraine and other former parts of the Russian Empire.

Because of local politics, and the enormous expense of maintaining modern forces the politics of paying for and using military forces are different in Europe, especially since the end of the Cold War. The United States has been alarmed with these developments and has had little success in getting its European allies to organize their armed forces to be more effective. This is becoming a growing problem for the Americans because the European nations now take for granted that the United States would always show up to supply key military capabilities. There is growing popular anger in the United States against that assumption and cost of remaining able to supply what the Europeans refuse to pay for.

During the Cold War (1947-91) the U.S. accepted these European attitudes, in part because the European defense policies were not as dysfunctional as they are now. Since the 1990s the U.S. has increasingly resented this growing burden and has been uncharacteristically undiplomatic over the last few years in discussing logistical and equipment shortcomings of its NATO allies.

There continue to be examples of how the American support works. The French-led liberation of northern Mali in early 2013 was greatly assisted by French warplanes using smart bombs to attack known terrorist bases. This was devastating and led to the rapid collapse of resistance to the French ground forces. But most of the air support would not have been possible without American aerial tankers. There was a similar shortage of aerial reconnaissance aircraft, especially those that could do electronic monitoring (to monitor terrorist communications on the ground). Later in 2013 NATO was under pressure to support the Syrian rebels with air support, as they did the Libyans in 2011. That would not be possible without American assistance and the main reason it didnt happen was the U.S. refusal to get involved.

Libya in 2011 was supposed to be just a European operation. NATO was persuaded to take charge of the bombing campaign (to fulfill a UN order to stop the Libyan dictator from murdering his own people). While NATO agreed to do this they found, once more, that they didnt have sufficient military capability to get it done with European resources alone. The U.S. still had to supply most of the refueling and intelligence aircraft as well as sending more smart bombs because most NATO nations dont have very large stocks of these weapons.

Libya and Mali followed the campaign against ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) after 2013 provided more examples of how unprepared most NATO members were for actual combat. The situation has gotten worse since 1991. This was immediately seen when there was a need for peacekeeping in the Balkans throughout the 1990s. The U.S. was implored to pitch in because the European NATO nations couldnt handle this themselves. Then came September 11, 2001. NATO members offered to help in Afghanistan and (to a lesser extent) Iraq. But it was more promises than performance because NATO nations were even less prepared for peacekeeping in distant hotspots.

The reluctance of most European nations to send troops to Iraq or Afghanistan was more than just the result of political differences. While Europe has about twice as many troops as the United States, they have far fewer fit enough to send off to a combat zone. This was a problem first noted in the 1990s when there was a big demand for peacekeepers in the Balkans. The Europeans couldn't fob this one off on the Americans and had to come up with combat-ready troops. The Europeans had a tough time finding soldiers ready and able to go.

European armed forces are full of people in uniform who have a civil service mentality. That is, they think and act like civilians, not soldiers. Belgium discovered in the 1990s that 14 percent of its troops were obese (compared to 12 percent of the general population) and unfit for many of their duties. Much noise is always being made about getting all the troops in good physical shape. While that is possible, it is less likely that the mentality of the troops will be changed.

During the Cold War, Europe got most of its troops via conscription. Young men came in for two or three years and then left. Anywhere from a third to half the troops were long-term professionals, in for twenty or more years. But even before the Cold War ended, many of the European military professionals were losing their combat edge. When the Soviet Union disappeared in 1991, there was no longer any compelling reason for a European soldier to think and act like one. It was just a job. A government job that was not, or should not, be terribly demanding.

Europeans spend a much higher proportion of their defense dollars on payroll, leaving little money for training, new equipment, and maintenance. It also meant an older, on average, bunch of troops. Going to war is a young man's game, but Europeans have instead turned their armed forces into another job creation program. There are some exceptions, like Britain and France, demanding that the troops remain fit and maintaining high training standards. Most European nations maintain a few elite infantry units, but these don't add up to much in terms of numbers. Only Britain and France have large "rapid reaction" forces that can be sent overseas on short notice but even these are threatened by continued budget cuts. The United States has the largest such force, and many European nations tried to expand theirs but decades of politicians spending more than they should have is catching up with most European nations. The unexpected Russian menace has changed that mentality momentarily but that is temporary. Old customs die hard.
Yesterday another peace deal was agreed to for South Sudan and the deal was signed in Sudan, where all the principal faction leaders met to agree on the terms. There have been several of these deals since 2013 and all those failed but this one seems more likely to hold. The primary South Sudan rivals Salva Kiir (president of the country) and Riek Machar (former vice-president and rebel leader) signed a power-sharing agreement that deliberately worked to avoid past peace deals that failed. This one will end the civil war in part because everyone is resigned to the fact that the war is pointless and self-destructive. For example; Machar returns to being vice president, a job he was fired from in 2013 when Kiir accused Machar of plotting a coup. The peace deal was worked out with the help of many faction leaders and that meant a redistribution of high-level government jobs and creation of enough new posts to satisfy everyone, at least for now. For example, there are now five vice-presidents and 35 ministers (head of ministries). The parliament has been expanded to 550 members. All these new high-level jobs are an attempt to solve the problem that caused the civil war in the first place; tribal rivalries, jealousy, greed and paranoia. President Kiir belonged to the dominant Dinka tribe while Machar was a Nuer, the largest of many smaller tribes that accused the Dinka of taking more than their fair share of the goodies. South Sudan is a poor country but it does have some oil (five billion barrels, worth nearly $300 billion at current prices). Getting access to oil money often encourages political rivals to cooperate so that the oil can be pumped, shipped and sold. Yet South Sudan, even with oil income, is still an economic disaster. Peace is one thing, productive (rather than the usual plundering) government is another. Peace does not mean prosperity, just less deliberate killing.

August 3, 2018: The rainy season has begun in the Sudans. A downpour in central Sudan (North Kordofan state) destroyed 200 houses. In the west, a rainstorm in North Darfur took a similar toll. Torrential rains make movement on the ground very difficult. Many rural airfields are also shut down because cloud cover socks them in and the rain turns their dirt runways to mud. In South Sudan, foreign aid groups have already begun conducting air drops (via parachute) to deliver medicine and food. Aid groups know that the rainy season has made 70 percent of South Sudan inaccessible to ground convoys. This is a big problem as seven million South Sudanese are dependent on food and medical aid. The planes used to deliver by parachute can drop just over three tons of food per flight. A ton of rice (or other grains) can feed about 1550 to 1600 people per day at a subsistence level, so one plane can airdrop enough food to feed around 5,000 people a day. On a recent mission for a refugee camp in eastern South Sudan (Katdalok, Jonglei state), nine tons of food (three planeloads) were dropped over a two-day period. The camp houses some 5,000 refugees, so that was three days worth of food. But presumably, one planeload was consumed on the day it was delivered. Life hangs on a slender thread and fickle weather could delay future deliveries. What applies to the military applies to humanitarian aid: logistics, logistics, logistics. (Austin Bay)

August 2, 2018: Sudan and Ethiopia have begun a new border demarcation process intended to end disagreements over agricultural land rights along the border. Ethiopians and Sudanese have a specific over land in the Al-Fashaga area in Sudans Gedaref state (eastern Sudan).

Kenya will be the site got the next round of South Sudan peace negotiations. The two sides have not agreed to a general deal yet but key leaders are meeting in Sudan to try and work out a power-sharing agreement. If the Sudan talks succeed the September meeting in Kenya will work out additional details and address problems encountered so far.

August 1, 2018: South Sudan has informed Sudan that it expects to resume oil production in the El Toor and Toma South fields on September 2. The two fields will produce about 45,000 barrels a day. The oil will pass through Sudanese pipelines. Production from the Unity and Munga fields will begin by the end of December 2018.

July 31, 2018: The SSUM (South Sudan United Movement) rebels insisted they are still a member of the SSOA (South Sudan Opposition Alliance), which is the rebel political organization. SSOA leaders booted the SSUM because SSUM leaders had approved the latest transitional peace agreement between the South Sudan government and the main rebel group SPLM-IO. The SSOA says the deal does not sufficiently protect minority tribes in South Sudan or fairly share power. Nine political parties belong to the SSOA.

July 30, 2018: Sudans national intelligence agency announced it had conducted an operation that helped free five Egyptian Army soldiers kidnapped by an armed Libyan group (or Chadian gunmen operating from Libya). The rescue apparently took place inside of Libya.

July 26, 2018: The South Sudan government and SPLM-IO have signed another preliminary power-sharing agreement. South Sudan will create a transitional national legislature with 550 members. The government will have five vice-presidents. One vice-president must be a woman.

July 20, 2018: Egypt and Sudan have agreed to renew full diplomatic ties. They will also address their difference over Nile River water rights and a border dispute. The Egyptian Navy in the Red Sea has been supporting Saudi Arabian coalition operations in Yemen.

July 18, 2018: Much to the chagrin of Iran, Sudanese forces continue to serve with the Saudi Arabian-led coalition operation in Yemen. Sudan has all but terminated its long-term alliance with Iran and made it clear it will back the pan-Arab effort.

July 14, 2018: The South Sudan rebels (SPLM-IO) strenuously objected to the South Sudan parliaments decision to extend President Salva Kiirs term in office by three years. The SPLM-IO said the vote could undermine ongoing peace efforts.

July 13, 2018: The UN Security Council has imposed a tight arms embargo on South Sudan. The U.S. sponsored the resolution which received nine yes votes, the minimum number of votes required. The U.S., Great Britain, France, the Ivory Coast, the Netherlands, Kuwait, Peru, Poland and Sweden supported the resolution. Russia, China, Bolivia, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia and Kazakhstan abstained. The embargo includes a travel ban on key leaders and freezing of assets.

July 12, 2018: Sudan announced it will extend its unilateral ceasefire in the west (Darfur), central Sudan (South Kordofan) state and the southeast (Blue Nile state) until December 31, 2018. The problem is, the ceasefire is intermittently broken by both the government and rebels.

July 11, 2018: Today is the seventh anniversary of South Sudans independence. South Sudan has little to celebrate. The civil war began in December 2013 and continues. Out of a population of 13 million, 4.4 million South Sudanese are either refugees in foreign countries or internally displaced, Seven million South Sudanese need foreign aid (main food and medicine) to survive.

July 10, 2018: In southern South Sudan the SPLM-IO accused the army of attacking rebel positions in Yei River state. A force of around 200 soldiers left their camp at Morobo and attacked the rebel base in the town of Isebi.

July 9, 2018: In central Sudan three civilians were killed and six wounded when 18 soldiers attacked a group of herders in South Kordofan state. The soldiers stole over 60 head of cattle and 80 goats. The herders formed a posse and chased the soldiers, killing one soldier and wounding one. The cows and goats were recovered.

July 8, 2018: In western Sudan refugees entering the camp at Mershing (South Darfur state) report new fighting between government forces and rebels in the Jebel Marra area. The clashes occurred in Fundug Badiya (Central Darfur state). Subsequently, the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM Abdelwahid faction) claimed its fighters killed 45 members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia. One rebel died in the firefight.

July 6, 2018: The Sudan president (Omar Al-Bashir) showed up in Djibouti (north of Somalia) to attend the China-Africa Economic Forum and Exhibition. Bashir remains under indictment by the International Criminal Court for war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. The indictment was handed down in 2008 but the Moslem world, in general, prefers to ignore that sort of thing, if only because such bad behavior towards your own population is more common in Moslem majority states.

July 5, 2018: Diplomats in East Africa are saying the June 27 Declaration of Agreement signed in by South Sudan government and rebel leaders could result in a final peace settlement. However, the permanent ceasefire which was to take effect June 30 has already been broken by both parties. But the Revised Bridging Proposal that creates a process for forming a new transitional government and improving security arrangements has real promise. The government would form over a three-year transitional period. IGAD (East African Intergovernmental Authority on Development) would be closely involved. U.S. demands for a strict UN arms embargo on South Sudan are also a positive. Neither the government nor the rebels want to cross Washington. The Declarations oil production provisions benefit China, a permanent member of the Security Council which also has political and economic leverage in both Sudans. Oil royalties benefit both the government and the rebels in South Sudan. Sudan will behave because it gets oil pipeline fees. Thats the upside. Relentless genocidal civil war is the downside. (Austin Bay)
Since late March Hamas, in Gaza, has been organizing large demonstrations near the Israeli security fence in an effort to create enough chaos to get people, especially Hamas fighters, into Israel. While that effort has failed, and over 130 Palestinians have died (often while throwing rocks or firebombs at Israeli troops) it wasnt until July 20th that an Israeli soldier was killed at the fence, while trying to persuade a large group of Palestinians to get away from the fence. A Hamas sniper, apparently using an Iranian AM-50 12.7mm Iranian sniper rifle, killed the Israeli soldier who was on the Israeli side of the fence. Since this was the first Israeli fatality since Hamas began its current campaign of weekly violent demonstrations Israel retaliated so swiftly and on such a massive scale that Hamas agreed to a ceasefire to avoid what they believed would be an Israeli invasion. That ceasefire did not last, but the impact of the swift and massive Israeli retaliation did.

Israel knew there were 12.7mm sniper rifles in Gaza and Hamas had boasted of having some Steyr HS50 12.7mm rifles as far back as late 2013. But none of these were ever seen in action. Iran has been supplying Hamas with weapons for over a decade and Israel was more concerned with longer range Iranian rockets that had reached Gaza.

It was common knowledge that Iran had imported 800 Austrian Steyr-Mannlicher 800 HS50 12.7mm (.50 caliber) sniper rifles to Iran in 2006. Actually, these had been ordered in 2004, right after they were put on sale, and Steyr insisted the sale was legal (despite weapons sanctions on Iran) because they for use by Iranian border patrol forces against Afghan and Pakistani drug smugglers. The United States saw the weapons as eventually being used against U.S. troops and thats what happened by 2007 when American soldiers were killed by these weapons and raids on Iran backed militias found more than a hundred of them.

The HS50 is a 12.4 kg (28.5), bolt action rifle with an 833mm (33 inch) barrel and overall length of 137cm (54 inches). There is no magazine and each round much be manually loaded. Effective range is 1,500 meters. By 2013 Iran had produced a copy of the HS50 called the AM50. There were some differences from the HS50. The barrel used a different design (which Steyr had improved on for the HS50) and was longer (933mm). The overall length of the AM50 was greater as well (148cm) but the AM50 was lighter (12.2 kg). The first version of the AM50 was single shot but a few years later an improved version appeared that had a three round magazine. The later HS50 M1 had a five round magazine as well as several other improvements. Iranian sales brochures cited a maximum effective range of the AM50 as 1,200 meters.

The AM50 is seen as a somewhat crude, but effective copy of the HS50 and when equipped with high-end electronic sights and quality ammo is as effective as the HS50. Many AM50s exported to places like Gaza and Lebanon often do not have the high-end sights or quality ammo. Even so in the hands of an experienced sniper, the AM50 is useful.

Iran made a good case for getting these weapons for purely police use. Iranian troops have been fighting an increasingly bloody war with drug smugglers along their border with Afghanistan and Pakistan. This fighting gets particularly nasty because the drug smugglers are from Sunni tribes (usually Pushtun or Baluchi), that often believe the Shia Moslem Iranians are heretics. That makes the fighting about religion, as well as money. The fighting picked up after the Taliban were taken down in late 2001. After that, the drug business grew larger, and the smugglers saw Iran as a prime access route to European and Persian Gulf customers, as well as a good market in itself. With so many Iranians rapidly becoming drug addicts, the government sent thousands of troops and police to the Afghan and Pakistani borders, to try and stop the smugglers. This soon turned into a fierce battle, as the smugglers would often try and fight their way past Iranian patrols, or even ambush Iranian forces. The smugglers also tended to have better weapons than the Iranians, as well as night vision devices and satellite telephones.

Iran makes a lot of its own small arms but does not have the technical expertise to produce high tech things like .50 caliber sniper rifles, electronic sights for rifles, and other military electronics (ground radars and other sensors). Thus Iran has turned to anyone who will supply it with the high tech weapons it wants. Because of the Iranian nuclear weapons program, illegal, and legal, imports into Iran are closely watched by many intelligence organizations. Because of the HS50 rifles exported to Iran, the United States included Steyr-Mannlicher among nine companies it imposed sanctions on because they were caught supplying weapons to Iran. Six of the sanctioned firms were Chinese. But the Austrian firm was providing equipment most likely to end up in the hands of terrorists attacking American troops. Steyr-Mannlicher insisted that the deal was legit and had a difficult time getting out from under the sanctions, which limited its ability to sell goods inside the United States. Steyr-Mannlicher promptly supplied the United States with the serial numbers of the HS50 rifles delivered to Iran and was helpful in other ways. Some of these HS50s showed up in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and other conflict areas. Not all of them were from the batch sold to Iran. This was not unusual as arms smugglers obtain their weapons from many sources and sell them at a big profit to users who cannot legally obtain them. The HS50s sold to Iran cost over $6,000 each but can bring more than twice that on the black market.
Portuguese wildfires encircle Algarve resort town



Lisbon, Aug 7 (AFP) Aug 07, 2018



Hundreds of Portuguese firefighters and soldiers battled ferocious forest fires that threatened to engulf an Algarve resort town Tuesday as meteorologists warned of "significant winds" to come.

Sweltering temperatures kindled blazes that have whipped across the region as the Europe-wide heatwave sent the mercury above 45 degrees Celsius (113 Fahrenheit) in some areas of Portugal at the weekend.

Fire crews struggled to extinguish wildfires around the mountain town of Monchique that have left 30 people injured, one seriously.

Hundreds of residents were forced to leave their homes while tourists -- including Britons -- were evacuated from a plush hotel.

Images released by the European Space Agency appear to show the fires are visible from the International Space Station.

Interior minister Eduardo Cabrito said the relief effort was being coordinated at a "national level" which will "allow greater mobilisation of resources" as meteorologists predicted "significant winds in the coming hours".

However, firefighters criticised the lack of coordination.

Fernando Curto, the president of the National Association of Professional Firefighters told Radio Renasceneca: "I spoke to one of my colleagues who is in the Algarve to fight the fires and he told me that it was totally disorganised. In certain aspects, nobody understands each other."

Responding to firefighters' calls to meet the interior minister, Cabrito said: "We do not take stock in the heat of battle. Our priority now is to fight this fire."



- Homes, hotels cleared -



Around 250 people were evacuated on Monday evening from villages around Monchique, a mountain town of 6,000 inhabitants in the mountain range of the same name, around 160 kilometres (100 miles) south of Lisbon.

On Sunday night, a group of mainly English guests were evacuated from a five-star resort high in the hills to other hotels in the area.

Fire crews used aeroplanes and helicopters as well as several hundred vehicles Tuesday in a fresh attempt to contain the blazes, which have raged for days stoked by the strong winds.

The wildfires, which have consumed some 15,000 hectares (76,000 acres) of forest, crept closer to the enclave overnight, leaving behind a blackened path of charred houses and incinerated cars.

"There are several main homes affected. But for the moment we are not yet able to make an assessment," said Monchique mayor Rui Andre, according to local media.

By Tuesday afternoon the flames were about 500 metres (550 yards) from a fire station and a 17th-century convent. The blaze has also damaged about 40 kilometres (25 miles) of power lines.



- Tourists' favourite -



A 76-year-old woman has been sent to hospital in Lisbon for treatment due to the fires, which took hold last week around Monchique at the highest point of the Algarve tourist region.

Authorities had hoped to contain the fires on Monday, but the country's civil protection service said that strong winds had revived the flames, "which immediately took on large proportions".

The difficulty in bringing the fires under control has raised eyebrows after the Portuguese authorities brought in various measures in a bid to avoid a repetition of fires that killed at least 114 people last year.

Despite significant resources, the fire continues to "destroy homes" and threaten an "urban perimeter," the National Association of Professional Firefighters and the Union of Professional Firefighters said in a joint statement.

In the Valencia region of neighbouring Spain some 2,500 people were driven from their homes overnight to escape flames that have already swept across around 1,000 hectares, as fire crews struggled to bring the fires under control.
The Arzni water plant in the Byureghavan community of the Kotayk Marz has become a headache for Anelik Bank CJSC (now ID Bank, renamed after rebranding). The new shareholder of the bank has suddenly found himself in a predicament where the sole hope for its resolution is the impartiality of the new government and the judicial system.

By resorting to different mechanisms, businessman Gevorg Afandyan, the owner of "Arzni" mineral water plant, has tried to put himself in a beneficial situation, despite the large credit liabilities owed to "Anelik Bank".

Gevorg Afandyan is the owner of the bankrupted chain of Star supermarkets, the chain of AG Electronics stores, AG Print printing houses, the Etchmiadzin cannery, Cinnabon and Segafredo cafes and a number of other businesses. In one of his interviews, he labelled the banks as the roof of his business, from which he had borrowed loans and established businesses. As of 2012, he claimed his businesses to be successful, but today almost all of Afandyans businesses are bankrupt, save for a few. Others have been transferred by Afandyan to his sons or registered with the names of his close ones. Afandyan is the entrepreneur to whom a loan had been extended by the former head of the Compulsory Enforcement Service (CES), currently MP Mihran Poghosyan. The latter has filed lawsuits against Afandyan for confiscation of the debt from his "Byurakn" LLC and "Star Divide" CJSC companies.

Some of Gevorg Afandyans business partners include entrepreneur Silva Hambardzumyan in Silvi AG LLC, as well as Khazak Karayan, the former Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Real Estate Cadaster and currently the director of the Information Technology Department of the Eurasian Economic Commission, in S.G.K. Soft LLC. Silvi AG LLC held a license for capital construction activities. In 2012-2013 "S.G.K.-Soft" LLC held a license for geological exploration in the middle and upper streams of Bughakar River basin in Syunik Marz. G. Afandyan has never hidden his close ties with Alexander Sargsyan, former President Serzh Sargsyan's brother.

The new shareholders requirement: clear the bank from suspicious transactions

In order to satisfy the Central Banks requirement for the Armenian banks to have a charter capital of 30 billion AMD, a new shareholder appeared in Anelik Bank CJSC in 2016. Russia-based Vardan Dilanyan became the 60 percent owner of the bank in 2016. The remaining 40 percent still remained with the Lebanese CreditBank S.A.L.

Transactions with Afandyan were entered into during the former shareholders, and the new shareholder has learned of the details of these transactions just recently upon receipt from the court the bankruptcy receivers claim demanding penalties in the amount of USD 22 million.

In 2010, Gevorg Afandyan borrowed a USD 7 million loan from Anelik Bank for his Byurakn LLC business group (according to the data of the State Register, Byurakn LLC does not belong to Afandyan since 2007, however he does not deny that it is one of his companies) by pledging a building of about 14 thousand square meters, a land plot of 2.8 ha, stores of about 1074, 113 and 92 square meters respectively, that belonged to Arzni Mineral Waters Plant - a member of the "B.M.L Arzni" group. According to the Companies State Register, "B.M.L Arzni" LLC belongs to Afandyans eldest son - Vahe Afandyan, who owns 100% of the shares of the "B.M.L Arzni" LLC.

Gevorg Afandyan, however, failed to make the payments on time and, consequently, overdue penalties accrued. The entrepreneur offered the Bank to buy the pledged assets so that he could continue the operations and, thus, repay the debt. The banks Lebanese management agreed.

The Bank and Gevorg Afandyan had signed an agreement whereby the Bank undertook to grant the pledger, or a third party indicated by the latter an exclusive right of first refusal for the purchase for a period of 2 years. In case of non-compliance with the right of first refusal the bank undertook to pay a penalty equal to the fivefold of the amount of the confiscation value. The Bank further committed to direct the amount of the penalty for the repayment of the obligations of the Central Station, Ecoprint, and Supra LLSs - belonging to the Afandyan family  accrued towards the Bank as of that moment. Meanwhile, an audit was initiated in the Bank by the new shareholder for the purpose of increasing the charter capital of the Bank. Vardan Dilanyan's auditors advised on the removal of Afandyan's assets from the balance sheet of the Bank, since it was problematic. It was a precondition for Vardan Dilanyans purchase of the Banks shares.

The Lebanese shareholders agreed on that. For that purpose, in August 2016, a new company, "Tarmak" LLC, was incorporated to which the pledged assets of Arzni waters plant were sold in October of the same year. The founder of "Tarmak" LLC is "Private International Company" S.A. (PIC), registered in the offshore zone of the Virgin Islands, where 33% of shares were also given to Afandyan's eldest son. This transaction was thus completed, and the new shareholder of the bank was satisfied.

A year later, the Bank received the claim of B.M.L Arzni" LLCs bankruptcy receiver (Hakob Asoyan). The bankruptcy receiver asked the court to confiscate AMD equivalent of USD 22 million from the bank in favor of B.M.L Arzni" LLC ". The bankruptcy receiver referred to that very agreement which grants the B.M.L Arzni the right of first refusal for the purchase. That is to say, according to the bankruptcy receiver, the bank was in breach of the said agreement, having sold the pledged assets to another company before the expiration of the two-year period.

In March of this year the Court of First Instance of the Kotayk Marz granted the manager's claim in entirety and ruled on confiscation. The Bank has appealed the said decision as it believes that the deal was made with Afandyans consent, moreover, his son was given 33% of the shares in the newly established company.

In the meantime, a number of Afandyans companies had been declared bankrupt by the court, including: Byurakn LLC and B.M.L Arzni LLC. The liabilities of the B.M.L Arzni LLC are estimated at around USD 13 million. Should USD 22 million be collected from the Bank, then the debt will be repaid and the remaining USD 9 million will be left with Afandyan's company. It is, therefore, a good option for the businessman Gevorg Afandyan.

USD 22 million is about 35 percent of the Bank's charter capital. The new shareholder of the Bank believes that there is an organized group formed around this case, which  by applying fraudulent schemes  attempts to confiscate this amount from the Bank at any cost. After meeting with Afandyan, the representatives of the Bank realized that he has a big appetite and there is no way to find points of reconciliation.

Furthermore, according to the bank, it was ensured - by utilizing manifestly unfounded, illogical legal tricks not based in law and in violation of rules of procedure - that the case was heard by the same judge of the Kotayk Marz - Tigran Poladyan, who had examined several bankruptcy cases of the companies owned by Afandyan. In relation to the biggest of the said companies - the B.M.L Arzni LLC, the court has demonstrated an unprecedented expedition for the judicial system of the Republic of Armenia, by reviewing the case within five months and by holding 8 court sessions.

"An illegal decision has been rendered against the bank, which may end up in extorting a huge amount of money from the bank," says Hakob Martirosyan, a representative of the Bank.

Hakob Martirosyan and the banks lawyer, Arthur Melikyan, have identified numerous violations of both material and procedural norms. More than 25 such violations are indicated in the complaint with the Court of Appeals, which, as they say, include violations that undermine the fundamental principles of law and legality, including the fact that the same subject had appeared both on the side of the plaintiff and on the side of the defendant; a judgment made in favor of an inappropriate plaintiff (one that lacked standing); misinterpretation of the contract in contradiction with the law by which an attempt has been made to align it with reasoning and the purposes of the various parts of the judgment. The Bank has also filed with the Highest Judicial Department of the Republic of Armenia for the initiation of disciplinary proceedings against Judge Tigran Poladyan on the grounds of distorting violations made during the trial and in the ruling. Judge Tigran Poladyan is the brother of Karen Poladyan, the Head of Judicial Department of Armenia.

The Bank has appealed to Nikol Pashinyan

All this has happened during the administration of the former authorities, and now the new shareholder and the management of the bank hope that under the new Government the judicial system will be unbiased and will render a fare decision on the case.

The Appellate Court decision will be announced on July 20. Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Board of the Bank, Mr. Ruben Melikyan, has addressed a letter to the Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan.

In his letter the Chairman of the Board states that businessman Gevorg Afandyan, known for his close ties with the highest circles of the former authorities, has systematically harassed the Bank that has been established and is operating with Lebanese and Russian investments. Gevorg Afandyan's companies had been borrowing tens of millions of dollars from Armenian banks for many years, and in recent years almost all of his companies have either become bankrupt or are on the verge of bankruptcy.

Ruben Melikyan wrote that in October 2017, Gevorg Afandyan, taking advantage of the bankruptcy of B.M.L Arzni LLC, has launched a real attack on the bank and its shareholders filing several lawsuits for a total claim of more than USD 35 million.

The Chairman of the Board writes in his letter - "The fact that Gevorg Afandyan has been standing behind his sons and other fictitious shareholders and directors in the past, and now  behind the bankruptcy receiver, is proven to be true both by the testimonies given by Afandyan and his sons during the trial, and by the fact that he was a party to the negotiations with the Banks representatives conducted after the court ruling where he directly accepted this fact.

The Bank and its shareholders are confident that under the new Government Armenia will overcome the corruption, and justice will be restored. However, there is still a concern that the new realities in the country have yet had no effect on Gevorg Afandyans and his sponsors vicious practices, and that the deals formerly made, including the possible arrangements with the judicial system, are still very much valid and viable. Ruben Melikyan concludes - "We believe that addressing of this problem in a timely manner will help to prevent the serious risks that Gevorg Afandyan's judicial aggression could pose to our future activities in Armenia as well as to Armenia's investment climate at large."

USD 9 million in Afandyans pocket

They cannot execute contracts with one another in a proper form, is it Asoyans fault? - said the bankruptcy receiver Hakob Asoyan in a conversation with us. - "I will repay all my liabilities to all banks, and whatever remains, I will return to the debtor. It was up to the Bank not to make the mistake and not to put itself in a bad condition.

The bankruptcy receiver did not want to get into details advising us to ask their lawyers instead.

In the conversation with us, businessman Gevorg Afandyan confesses that he will benefit from this deal. The businessman has even made calculations: out of USD 22 million he will pay USD 11 million for the B.M.L Arzni liabilities under the bankruptcy case, USD 1-2 million will be paid as taxes, and USD 9 million will end up on his bank account.

Within the scope of this case Nerses Karamanukyan, former manager of "Anelik Bank", and businessman Gevorg Afandyan and his sons had given testimony to the court. Neither of them denied the fact of the deals. However, Gevorg Afandyan denies his participation in the incorporation of the "Tarmak" LLC. He admits only the creation of an offshore company, where, however, he considers his sons share to be negligible, since it does not give him any powers. The management of the plant, transactions and the creation of "Tarmak" LLC plus USD 11 million credit on the shoulders of the offshore "PIC" were all done without his consent.

lso read: Businessman Gevord Afandyan, supporter of shadow economy, talks about the confrontation between Arzni Waters Plant and Anelik Bank.

They will lose big amounts on these deals, whether it is going to happen today, tomorrow or the day after, I do not know: their bank is in a very messy condition, their management, their loan portfolio. It's not hard for me to earn on their loan portfolios, to open up a case. There is a lot going on here ... I will get my money to the last penny says Gevorg Afandyan.

He is also ready to appeal the decision of the Appellate Court if it is not in his favor. Although the plaintiff is the bankruptcy receiver, the entrepreneur forgets about this fact when talking about the matter and considers himself as a key party to the case.

"As you may know, the European Court quickly slams countries for the attempt to steal a business. This is a classical form of theft- he says.

In order to clarify some of the issues related to the years of the Lebanese management of the Bank, we asked questions to Mazen A. Shehayeb, member of the Board of Anelik Bank, Coordination of Foreign Branches, Lebanese Credit Bank S.A.L.

The foreign shareholders of Anelik Bank believe that under the new Government their business and investments will be protected.

He told us that back in 2010, the former shareholders and management of the bank, and later, the representatives of Chzmachyan family, introduced Mr. Gevorg Afandyan to Creditbank as Armenia's most successful oligarch and businessman who owned many companies, including Star Divide LLC, "Interstatos" LLC, "Byurakn" LLC, "Arzni Group" LTD, "B.M.L. Arzni LLC, Eco Print LLC, E-Print LLC, V&A Tour LLC, etc. and is involved in printing, supermarket, bottling and beverage production businesses.

"However, the former management did not inform CreditBank that Gevorg Afandyan's companies had borrowed tens of millions of dollars from Armenian banks and that he was one of the largest borrowers in Armenia, and that some of his companies were on the verge of bankruptcy. Based on the said information, the Bank provided a loan to Byurakn LLC, which was presented by Chzmachyan family as a member of Afandyan Group of Companies controlled by G. Afandyan - says Mazen A. Shehayeb.

Mazen A. Shehayeb points out several arguments that prove the bank's rightfulness in this dispute. In particular:

- the right of first refusal, agreed on March 4, 2015, has never been notarized by the notary public and no rights and limitations arising thereof have been registered;

- unlike the purchase agreement, fixing of the right of preemption was not approved by the Board of "Anelik Bank" CJSC nor was it verified by the CreditBank Board;

- the non-judicial levy procedure was launched on March 17, 2015;

- the property rights over the assets (real property and two land plots) subject to confiscation was transferred to the Bank for the consideration of USD 4,434,907,9 million, while Gevord Afandyan had purchased the said property in 2001 for USD 30 thousand (AMD 10 million);

- on June 22, 2016 B.M.L Arzni LLC was declared bankrupt;

-in October 2016 the assets were transferred to Tarmak LLC, the time when B.M.L Arzni LLC had neither legal nor financial capacities to redeem the said assets;

- and Gevorg Afandyan has agreed to approve the transfer of the assets on the following 4 conditions, including:

1. provided that he gets one-third of the assets free of charge by owning 1/3 of the shares in the new company who will have ownership over the assets;

2. provided that his companies continue using the property for the production of non-alcoholic beverages,

3. provided that he gets a share of USD 380 thousand from the Bank, which will make 50% of tax returns for the property;

4. provided that he additionally gets USD 500 thousand from the CreditBank.

The Arzni Mineral Waters Plant that has passed to Tarmak LLC is not operating since September 2017. The property of B.M.L Arzni LLC is on auction, however there is move forward due to the absence of offers. In the meantime, Gevorg Afandyan has filed 5 lawsuits before the Armenian courts against the Anelik Bank.
Armenias Ministry of Justice is proposing that judges in the country be issued handguns for self-defense.

Judges would have to undergo weapons training if they never served in the military.

The ministry says the judicial code permits judges to carry firearms and what remains is to regulate the issuance of guns.

Judges wishing to carry firearms will have to file a request with the Supreme Judicial Council.

The ministry, in a statement, fails to mention how many judges, if any, have been injured or killed while on the job.
Fifteen Artsakh MPs have signed a petition to release former Armenian president Robert Kocharyan from pre-trial detention.

Artsakh National Assembly Presidential Press Secretary Anush Ghavalyan reported the news in a Facebook post, writing that the petition was handed to Armenias prosecutor general.

Ghavalyan did not tell Hetq who the fifteen MPs were.

A similar petition in Armenia has been signed by 46 MPs.

On July 28, Kocharyan was charged with usurping state power during the March1-2, 2008 public protests in Yerevan that claimed the lives of ten individuals. The court then decreed that he be detained for two months, arguing that the former president could influence the upcoming trial if issued bail.
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Linkedin Steffen Hardayanto Hadi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 16:32 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51d0bff 3 Opinion data-protection-bill,data-privacy,digital-technology,cybersecurity,cyber-crime,cyber-protection-law Free

It has been over six months since the Communication and Information Ministry claimed that the law on data protection would be enacted in 2018. Yet, there is no promising sign, which indicates lack of seriousness to finalize the bill into a law.

Presently, consumer data protection only relies on a ministerial regulation. However, Regulation no. 20/ 2016 does not adequately protect data owners. The researcher says the regulation only imposes administrative penalties on those who breach personal data.

Furthermore, it does not offer a remedial system enabling personal data owners to recover damages. Instead, the regulation only enables the ministry to mediate settlements between personal data owners and electronic system providers (ESP) that collect and process personal data. It does not grant power to the Ministry to push for remedy to recover damages of the data owner.

The bill, however, seems to accommodate the weakness of the 2016 regulation, with its penalty for violating personal data protection. Further, it grants power to an independent commission to fine wrongdoers and grant remedy for data owners. It seems promising as the penalty, fine, and mandatory remedial payment should have a deterrent effect to the relevant ESP. However, is it really effective?

One potential issue is the extraterritoriality of the bill. The bill states it applies both within and outside Indonesia; however the parties that can be penalized or fined are limited to Indonesian business entities or persons present in Indonesia. Thus, cloud-computing or over the top (OTT) companies, which operate remotely and mainly rely on consumer data, are immune to such provisions.

Indonesian laws are not sophisticated enough to reach companies overseas who do business with Indonesian customers through electronic systems, such as Amazon, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Those companies can freely operate without establishing entities in Indonesia.

The Ministry has indeed issued a circular encouraging the OTT to establish at least permanent establishments in Indonesia; however, the circular is not binding.

Former Constitutional Court justice Maria Farida Indrati has emphasized that a circular letter is not a regulation in Indonesia because it only applies internally within the institution that issues it.

This is a significant loophole that the bill must address. The absence of obligation to establish an entity or legal presence in Indonesia may lead to ineffective legal enforcement. For instance, if a social media platform company leaks personal data of Indonesian customers to an overseas company, there would be nothing that the government can do. Even if the court grants remedy to the Indonesian users, there is no tool to enforce the judgment because there is no presence of such media platform company in Indonesia, whether in the form of assets to be executed or entity to be penalized.

According to Statista, Instagram users in Indonesia during April 2018 reached 56 million users, the fourth biggest in the world. Social network users in Indonesia reach 96 million people, and this number is still increasing. Yet, the countrys legal platform is not sophisticated enough to accommodate protection for such users.

With a proper legal platform, the enormous number of Internet platform would indeed be exciting given the great efficiency the internet offers. It is now up to the government to carve this potential into a new economic power of the country.

***

The writer is a foreign investment lawyer at Roosdiono & Partners (Zico), who studied corporate and business at University of Pennsylvania Law School and Wharton Business & Law Certificate.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post.
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Linkedin A Agus Sriyono (The Jakarta Post) Vatican City  Tue, August 7, 2018 11:51 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51bef70 3 Opinion nationalism,Diversity,Indonesia,democracy,Europe,ethnic-nationalism Free

The rise of far-right political parties in Europe is now a reality. Far-right parties have been spreading in at least 13 member states of the European Union and gaining power in Austria, the Netherlands, France, Germany and Italy, as evident in the results of elections there in the last two years. It is safe to say that ethnic nationalism is emerging in Europe.



Despite the fact that during the election of December 2016, the presidential candidate of Austrias far-right Freedom Party, Norbert Hofer, lost to Alexander van der Bellen, Hofer drew a respectable 46.7 percent of the vote.



In the Netherlands, the Dutch Party for Freedom (PVV) experienced a rapid rise to power in 2006 when, as a relatively new far-right movement, it gained a greater share of seats in the House of Representatives than other, more established parties. Today, the PVV under the leadership of Geert Wilders has 20 out of 150 seats in the parliament.



In France, the leader of the far-right National Front Party, Marine Le Pen, reached the second round of the presidential election and went on to collect 33.9 percent of the vote.



Alternative for Germany (AfD), which represents the far right in Germany, shifted its focus to domestic security and immigration after nearly 1 million migrants arrived in the country to seek asylum in 2015. Its tone became increasingly nationalistic, populist and racist. Last year, the AfD emerged as the third-largest party in parliament.



The Italian elections last March marked the latest powerful wave in a tidal turn of anti-immigrant and anti-EU sentiment. The far-right League collected 17.69 percent of the vote, up by 4 percent from the previous election. It then established a coalition government with the Five Star Movement.



The influx of immigrants is one of the reasons for the electoral support for the far-right parties in Europe. As of Jan. 1, 2017, the migrant population residing in the EU with citizenship of a non-member country had reached 21.6 million, 4.2 percent of the population of the 28 EU member states. In the meantime, European countries are still struggling to absorb the roughly 1.8 million sea arrivals since 2014.



Though Europes far-right parties differ in important respects, they are motivated by a common sense of mission: to save their homelands from what they view as the corrosive effects of multiculturalism and globalization by creating a closed-off, ethnically homogeneous society. Alongside anti-immigration, far-right parties have been associated with antisemitism and Islamophobia. The parties are increasingly determined to gain power through legitimate electoral means.



In general, the European population opposes immigration for security, economic and cultural reasons. They are in favor of the far-right parties because of their common grievances. The anti-immigrant sentiment is the root cause of the surging ethnic nationalism. This variant of nationalism is a manifestation of the process of reimagining communities based on ethnic supremacy.



By reconstructing and reimagining new political communities, they believe that a nation should be defined in terms of ethnicity. They perceive themselves as nationalists. The central theme of ethnic nationalists is that nations are defined by a shared heritage, which usually includes a common language, a common faith and a common ethnic ancestry.



The immigrants are considered outsiders since they do not speak the same language, embrace the same faith or come from the same ethnic ancestry.



Contrary to what is happening in Europe, it is almost impossible for Indonesian people to evoke an ethno-state based on ethnic nationalism. In a diverse nation like Indonesia, ethnic diversity is given. Historically, the nation and state of Indonesia was built by consensus among people of different ethnicities, languages and religions. Nationalism in Indonesia is therefore classified as civic-nationalism.



Civic nationalism is conciliatory and forward-looking. This type of nationalism appeals to universal values, such as humanity, freedom and equality. Civic nationalism respects individual rights, tolerance and diversity.



Those values fit well with the democracy that Indonesia embraces, but are incompatible with ethnic nationalism.



Furthermore, Indonesians believe the attitude of ethnic nationalism toward immigrants violates the international conventions on the rights of asylum-seekers. Anyone who abides by a countrys laws can become a fully fledged citizen and contribute to the vitality of his or her adopted country. Inclusion of the outsiders does not destroy national identity. On the contrary, it enriches it with new ideas and behavior as long as social integration programs are well planned. Indonesia traditionally respects immigrants and asylum seekers.



Indonesia is now home to almost 14,000 refugees and asylum seekers. So far, with all its limitations, the government can handle them. Most Indonesian people are sympathetic to the refugees who come from Afghanistan, Myanmar, Somalia, Sri Lanka and other countries. Humanity has been the basis for Indonesias policy on migration.



Indonesia is lucky enough in not having far-right political parties. No party contesting the 2019 election has so far campaigned in favor of nationalism based on ethnicity.



Civic nationalism should be nurtured and empowered for a better future of Indonesia. In particular, it is very relevant when this country celebrates its 73rd anniversary of the independence.

***

The writer is Indonesian ambassador to the Holy See.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official stance of The Jakarta Post.
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Linkedin Reski Kurnia Ilahi (The Jakarta Post) Vienna  Tue, August 7, 2018

The month of August will mark 61 years of Indonesias pursuit for nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes.



Indonesia joined the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Aug. 7, 1957, the same year the agency was established. Eight years later in 1965, the countrys first nuclear reactor was inaugurated by then-president Sukarno in Bandung, West Java. Since then, nuclear reactors and related facilities have been utilized solely for peaceful activities, including research, training and the production of radioisotopes.



With our multilateral diplomacy in the area of atoms for peace continuously strengthening, Indonesia has been actively involved in various debates, such as those centered on technical cooperation, nuclear safety and nuclear applications to ensure their successful implementation and the attainment of maximum benefits from our membership in the international organization, as stipulated in Presidential Decree No. 64/ 1999.



Indonesia has also further intensified its leadership role in the agency. Last September, Ambassador Darmansjah Djumala was elected by acclamation as chairman of the agencys board of governors for 2017-2018. Indonesia thus assumed the leadership of one of the highest policy-making bodies of the IAEA, comprising 35 countries and elected from regional groups among 170 member countries.



Notwithstanding Indonesias enduring vision, active roles and leadership, it remains unclear whether diplomacy in a multilateral setting, such as the IAEA, can really have a positive impact on our social and economic development.



A closer look at Indonesias involvement in the political dynamics within the agency could show an alternative view to such skepticism.



Diplomacy plays its role in struggles for programs of our interest, mainly in two standing committees of the agency, namely its program and budget committee (PBC) and the technical assistance and cooperation committee (TACC).



In both forums, Indonesia, with the Group of 77 and China, a coalition of 134 developing countries, uphold the principle that the technical cooperation program is vital to bolster socioeconomic progress in developing countries.



Thus, we champion a sufficient and balanced distribution of the agencys budget, reflecting equal importance of the three pillars of the agency  the promotion of peaceful uses of nuclear technology, including technical cooperation, nuclear safety and nuclear safeguards.



As a result, regular budget allocations for important operations for developing countries such as nuclear science, nuclear techniques and technical cooperation for development has increased over time, reaching approximately 105.8 million euros in 2018 and 107.5 million euros for 2019.



The target of the agencys revenue from extra budgetary resources allocated exclusively for technical cooperation activities known as the technical cooperation fund (TCF) was also increased from 85.6 million euros in 2018 to 86.1 million euros for 2019.



What do these positive trends actually mean for Indonesia?



The budget increase provides greater space for our efforts to maximize the benefits of our membership in the agency. Our authorities  the National Nuclear Energy Agency (BATAN) and the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency (BAPETEN)  can make greater efforts to ensure that the technical cooperation program remains responsive and relevant to the needs of our people.



With the support of the technical cooperation program and other relevant international organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Indonesia has been able to progress in areas directly related to social and economic development.



For instance, nuclear techniques have enhanced varieties of soybean seeds to improve production in Sukorejo, East Java. A variety of soybean developed using irradiation, Mutiara 1 has a yield of around 3 tons per hectare, 25 percent higher than that of normal varieties.



Another tangible result is the invention of more than 22 superior varieties of rice with radiation mutation techniques. Gamma irradiation is used to induce mutations in seeds so that better characteristics arise.



One of them is the rice variety Inpari Sidenuk, which can adapt well to climate change effects, such as strong winds. The variety has doubled yields of up to 9 tons per hectare, as experienced by farmers in Mangaran, East Java.



Both examples provide evidence that decisions made through a lengthy political and budgeting process in multilateral forums, such as the IAEA, could eventually be translated into concrete cooperation programs that have direct impacts on society.



However, there are a number of actions that Indonesia should take to better pursue its long-standing vision of using nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes. It is thus crucial to redouble efforts to ensure that the agencys technical cooperation is supported by sufficient, assured and predictable resources.



Our active involvement in important political coalitions such as the G77 and China should be maintained to attain collective support, particularly in contentious deliberations such as the budget for technical cooperation.



At the national level, public awareness on the peaceful uses of nuclear technology should be increased. Nuclear technology is often associated only with nuclear weapons. In fact, nuclear technology also contributes to the development of food, agriculture, health, industry, manufacturing, energy, etc.



There is, therefore, merit to strengthen efforts in developing nuclear education and outreach programs to improve public support and confidence-building in nuclear safety so that nuclear technology can be made feasible, affordable and available to a wider community.

***

The writer is a diplomat at the Indonesian Permanent Mission to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna, Austria. The views expressed are his own.

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Linkedin Editorial Board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 08:30 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51ae3bb 4 Editorial #Editorial,agriculture,farmers,farming,technology,self-sufficiency,food-security Free

Although a little late, the production of a much-awaited rural vehicle is likely to be a game changer in the countrys efforts to develop its agriculture industry, as well as in improving the well-being of farmers and realizing food security.



President Joko Jokowi Widodo inaugurated the light pickup truck, called the AMMdes, during the opening of the 2018 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) in Sepong, Tangerang, last week. The vehicle is part of an Industry Ministry-sponsored program to provide more affordable means of transportation to rural people.



With an engine volume of 500 cc, the light pickup truck can transport agricultural commodities up to 700 kilograms. The truck can be operated as a mobile rice miller.



In the initial stage, truckmaker PT Kiat Mahesa Wintor Indonesia will produce 3,000 to 6,000 AMMdes per year until the end of 2019. The production capacity will be increased to 12,000 to 15,000 units in 2020. With a price of about Rp 70 million (about US$5,000) per unit, the AMMdes is far cheaper than regular light pickup trucks, which cost at least Rp 125 million each.



The initiative indicates the governments commitment to solving transportation and technology problems, which have long kept our farmers competitiveness low. Indonesia lags behind other ASEAN countries when it comes to the modernization of farming technology.



It is also the reason Indonesias farming productivity cannot match that of, for example, Thailand and Vietnam, the main rice exporters in the region. Agriculture production in the two ASEAN neighbors is more efficient than in Indonesia because of their more efficient transportation of agricultural commodities from villages to cities. The use of more advanced technology in the two countries also significantly reduces their farming costs.



The production of AMMdes will certainly help rural transportation in Indonesia. However, what the farmers really need is cheaper and applicable farming equipment, such as hand tractors. At present, hand tractors produced by Japanese companies, priced at between Rp 7 million and Rp 30 million (depending on their size), are too expensive.



The modernization of farming technology cannot be avoided. Otherwise, Indonesia will be unable to meet its target to achieve self-sufficiency in the production of several basic commodities, such as rice, and as a consequence will continue to rely on imports. Modern technology is needed not only to improve productivity and quality but also to solve manpower problems, as most young people in villages prefer to work in factories rather than work as farmers.



After the mass production of AMMdes, innovation in farming technology should follow. These days, modern technology is more important than ever as we have to further boost the production of staple food to meet the rising demand of the countrys growing population.



Beyond meeting the need to feed every mouth, however, the technology should also produce healthy food in order to develop a strong nation.
Senden village on the foothills of Mount Merbabu in Boyolali, Central Java, hosted a tobacco harvest festival from July 28 to Aug. 4.

The Tungguk Tembakau Festival, in which tungguk tembakau literally means tobacco picking, featured various activities, including a parade and traditional performances.

The main event was held last Thursday. The night before, the residents prepared mountain-shaped offerings comprising crops and tobacco leaves. Called gunungan, the offerings were blessed by the village elders and kept in Gunung Sari cemetery, a sacred place for locals where village ancestors are buried.

In the morning, hundreds of villagers gathered around Gunung Sari cemetery. Each hamlet had prepared tumpeng (yellow rice cones) that symbolizes their gratefulness for this years harvest.

Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo also participated in the event. He sliced the tumpeng to start the beginning of the ritual, which was followed by tobacco picking, marking the beginning of the harvest season in Senden village.

Read also: Tungguk Tembakau a tobacco harvest ritual with prayers

During the occasion, Ganjar promised to fight for tobacco prices to improve the farmers economy.

He mentioned that domestic demand for tobacco was relatively high, adding that one should prioritize locally grown tobacco over imports.

After the ritual, the event continued with a gunungan parade, in which villagers carried the offerings to Senden village.

The tumpeng was distributed among local residents. Meanwhile, the two main gunungan decorations were contested by visitors. The villagers believed that part of the decoration would bring fortune for their daily life and for farming in the upcoming year.

Festival initiator Dwi Kristanto said the festival used to be celebrated separately by each individual hamlet instead of collectively. However, they decided to turn the occasion into a festival, hoping it would promote Senden village as a tourist village.

The parade was followed by various performances, including the Jathilan and mask dance, as well as the Panen Jazz Festival (Harvest Jazz Festival). (jes/kes)
Sales at auction of works of fine art -- paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs, engravings and installations -- jumped by 18 percent in the first half of the year compared to the same period in 2017 to $8.45 billion (7.3 billion euros), according to Artprice.

The company's founder Thierry Ehrmann pointed out that "around three quarters of purchases above one million dollars is now by museums".

That trend is being supported by the opening of new museums.

"More new museums have been opened since 2000 than all of the 19th and 20th centuries," said Ehrmann. "And 700 are being founded each year in China."

The new openings helped China remain in second place in terms of auction revenues at $2 billion, accounting for just under a quarter of the market, according to Artprice's twice-yearly market report.

The United States led in auction sales in the first half of the year with $3.3 billion, or 40 percent of the market. Britain ranked third with $1.9 billion in sales and a market share of 22 percent.

- Rockefeller effect -

But if museums are now the big buyers, the market was supported this year by the sale of the art collection of billionaire David Rockefeller and his wife Peggy.

Although there was no blockbuster sale like that of Leonardo da Vinci's "Salvator Mundi" last November for $450 million, the Rockefeller collection was the most valuable private collection ever sold and included works by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and Claude Monet.

"The sale of May 8, 2018 alone totalled $646 million," noted Artprice in its report, with a Picasso "Blue Period" painting, "Fillette a la corbeille fleurie", fetching $115 million by itself.

Artprice pointed to a particular strength of the US market: the concentration of sales of the most expensive artworks that fetch more than $5 million at auction.

"New York is home to the largest high-end art market in the world: the top six first-half results were hammered in Manhattan", said the report.

Of the 15 works that have fetched more than $100 million at auction, all but one were sold in New York.

London's place in the global art market appears to be holding up against Britain's impending exit from the European Union next year.

"The English capital continues to compete with New York on the high-end market, especially for major European signatures," said Artprice, noting London remains the top marketplace for works by Gerhard Richter, the "most successful living artist on the global art market".

The city also remains a top venue for auctions of works by Picasso, which alone accounted for 17 percent of fine art turnover in Britain in the first half of the year.

In China, auction sales slid by seven percent. The first half of the year is not the best season in China, with the most prestigious sales taking place in Beijing in December.

The Chinese market could also become more attractive to sellers as a reorganisation appears to be helping bring down the rate of unsold works, which are still more than half of those put up at auction.

Read also: For Melani Setiawan, fine art and friendship go hand in hand

- 20th century dominates -

Works from the 20th century dominate the auction market, accounting for four-fifths of items to go under the hammer.

Artprice found a particular interest for works produced between 1900 and 1940, a period which includes the last impressionist works and the dawn of modern art.

Eight of the 10 most expensive works sold in the first of this year were produced during that period, including Russian abstract painter Kazimir Malevich's "Suprematist Composition", which sold in New York in May for $85.8 million, over $25 million more than when it was last sold in 2010.

But contemporary art is still popular with buyers, with Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat among the top-selling artists.
Beat it, Michael Jackson.

The king of pop is not the most accomplished among his musical siblings, losing that distinction to Janet Jackson, in one prime statistic - how much time their records have spent on the charts.

Billboard magazine, which monitors the jostling, did some counting as part of its celebration of the 60th anniversary of its Hot 100 chart, which kicked off on Aug 4, 1958.

The numbers may surprise many, with Janet landing at No. 7 in the magazine's all-time Hot 100 artist ranking, ahead of Michael who comes in at No. 8.

Michael actually has 13 No. 1s among his 30 top 10s, both greater feats than Janet's totals of 10 and 27 respectively.

But Janet, 52, is more "sticky", notching 219 weeks in the top 10, compared with Michael's 183.

She also ruled the roost longer when she hit No. 1 with any single.

Read also: Janet Jackson reveals 'intense' battle with depression

"That's The Way Love Goes" reigned supreme for eight weeks in 1993.

Michael's "Billie Jean", in contrast, managed only seven weeks at the top in 1983 while his "Black Or White" could not extend a seven-week No. 1 run in 1991 to 1992.

Heading the Hot 100 artist list are the Beatles - followed by Madonna, Elton John, Elvis Presley, Mariah Carey and Stevie Wonder in positions two to six.

At No. 9 is Whitney Houston while Rihanna takes No. 10.

Janet is likely to pull further ahead of Michael, who died in 2009.

Now on tour in America, she could come up with another hot-selling album or repackage her hits. But she is still unlikely to overhaul his phenomenal record sales of more than 350 million, with her current number hovering only at more than 100 million.
Mashed potatoes were to Joel Robuchon, the star French chef who died on Monday at 73, what a madeleine sponge cake dunked in tea was to novelist Marcel Proust: a powerful, sensuous reminder of his youth.

And as far as he was concerned, the more butter, the better.

Robuchon rehabilitated the simple milk-spud-butter mix in the 1980s, at a time when most chefs looked on it with disdain, and, as he later recalled, "there were only packets of Mousseline (an instant mash mix) to be found in French homes."

"He realised early on that if you give people potatoes, potatoes and more potatoes, they'll be eternally grateful, forever fulfilled," food author Patricia Wells wrote in her 1991 book on Robuchon's cooking.

The New York Times published the recipe and it went on to become a global sensation.

Read also: 'Chef of the century' Joel Robuchon dies at 73

Here it is, in 10 steps, as described by Robuchon in the French TV programme "Cuisinez comme un Grand Chef":

1- Use a kilogramme of potatoes, approximately the same size. Do not peel them. (Robuchon used the ratte variety).

2- Wash the potatoes and cover them with water, adding an extra 2-3 centimetres on top.

3- Add 10 grammes of salt per litre of water.

4- Bring the potatoes to the boil and simmer for 25 minutes. Prick a potato with the tip of a knife and try lifting it up. If it falls off it's cooked.

5- Peel the potatoes while still hot and put them through a vegetable mill. Do not use a blender as it makes the mash sticky.

6- Add a drop of water to a saucepan and then pour in 20-30 centilitres of full-cream milk. Bring the milk to a boil.

7- Over a low heat, add 250 grammes of cold butter, cut into lumps, to the potato mix, little by little.

8- Add the milk slowly.

9- Mix first with a wooden spoon. When the mix gets softer, use a whisk.

10- To make the mix even finer, put it through a sieve.

And to quote Robuchon's sign-off in his TV food show which ran from 2000 to 2009: "Bon appetit bien sur!"
Raised by poor parents in Yogyakarta, Vinolia Wakijo, a waria (transgender woman), once harbored hopes of studying at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) to become a teacher. She gave up on that dream after dropping out of high school to stay clear of people who bullied her because she made a living as a sex worker.

Like school, home was not a safe place for her as well. She left when she was very young because she was often beaten by her eldest brother who was ashamed of seeing her preening or playing with dolls and skipping with girls.

I was so afraid of him whenever he was at home, the 61-year-old said.

For Vinolia, being a waria is not a choice, but working as a prostitute was so harsh that she never wished to be part of it.

She recalled that in 1986 she was once thrown into the Mataram River by university students who refused to pay her after using her service at their boarding house.

After working for 15 years as a prostitute she quit in 1993, not because of the sexual abuse she experienced, but because of the explosion of the HIV/AIDS epidemic that claimed the lives of many waria, including her friends. Vinolia was surprised to find out that she was HIV-negative.

Despite her dark past, she never imagined that today she would be a guest lecturer at 10 universities in Yogyakarta, from private ones like Aisyiyah University to UGM, which she once dreamed of attending.

Teaching is something I really wanted to do since I was little. Being a guest lecturer is beyond my dreams, Vinolia, popularly known as Mami Vin, said.

Clad in a hijab, she is the director of Keluarga Besar Waria Yogyakarta (Kebaya) or Yogyakarta Transgender Family, which is an NGO that provides free shelter and assistance to waria and People With HIV/AIDS (ODHA).

Based on her experience, Vinolia uses a transgender perspective to shed light on the reproductive health of transgender women and the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS.

In Yogyakarta, the number of waria was reportedly around 325 last year, according to the Yogyakarta Transgender Association (Iwayo).

Around 15 percent of waria in Yogyakarta suffers from HIV/AIDS, she said.

The National AIDS Commission reported that the number of people suffering from AIDS in Indonesia from 1987 to last year was 87,453, including 1,361 in Yogyakarta. In that province, the reported number of AIDS patients increased from 91 in 2015 to 112 in 2016.

The number of deaths caused by AIDS across the country from 1987 to last year was 14,754, according to the commission.

Before founding Kebaya on Dec. 18, 2006, she was a volunteer for the Indonesian Planned Parenthood Association (PKBI) in Yogyakarta where she assisted waria and street children, protecting them from sexual abuse for 12 years.

Being a guest lecturer enables Vinolia to clear up stereotypes about her community.

The life journey of transgender people is not what people generally assume. They analyze our life without involving us. Therefore, there are many wrong narratives about us and HIV/AIDS patients, she said.

At Aisyiyah University, she teaches in the nursing faculty.

Under a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the university and Kebaya, which took effect in 2015 and runs until 2021, she regularly lectures there every Saturday. After her nursing students graduate, they intern at Kebaya to nurse the ODHA.

Every two weeks, there are around 10 to 15 interns [from Aisyiyah] here, she said.

At UGM, her students are not only from the medical and psychology faculties, but also from the social and political sciences faculty, where she talks about political issues such as the LGBT communitys response to elections, including whether election participants programs sides with the community.

Sex worker-turned-HIV/AIDS activist Vinolia Wakijo finally got what she really wanted -- to work as an academic. (JP/A. Kurniawan Ulung)

At the psychology faculty, I am even asked to speak to Master and Ph.D classes, said Vinolia who has also been a speaker at international conferences on LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS at home and abroad, such as the 20th International AIDS Conference in Melbourne, Australia, in 2014.

She is over the moon because Kebaya has also been visited by students from renowned foreign universities for field studies, including Oxford University in the United Kingdom and Harvard University in the United States.

Waria are facing even more challenges in a country that is becoming more conservative.

In February 2016, for example, Al Fatah Pesantren Waria, an Islamic boarding school for transgender students, in Banguntapan district in Yogyakarta was forced to shut down by hardline Islamist groups, a tragedy that left Vinolia in fear as Kebaya could be their next target.

However, she thanks God because since its establishment in 2006, Kebaya has never been attacked by hardliners.

Another challenge Vinolia faces in running Kebaya is funding. She admitted that since 2010, she no longer receives assistance from international funding agencies but teaching helps her meet her organizations needs.

Vinolia is also an avid social media user. She uses Facebook and Instagram, for example, to promote her book, entitled Waria Undercover, which tells of her journey from sex worker to LGBT activist.

After finding out that many waria are still working as prostitutes in the country, she said they could get the book for free because it also contained information about the importance of using condoms to protect them from HIV/AIDS.

Assisted by four transgender staff, Vinolia currently takes care of 11 ODHA who hail from various cities -- from Medan, North Sumatra, and Semarang in Central Java to Papua.

They include eight men and three women, including a housewife who gave birth, she said.

Vinolia is happy because the newborn baby will be the second in the Kebaya family because she is now raising an 18-month-old girl named Nira Kusuma Wardani whom she calls her granddaughter.

The toddler is HIV negative while her mother is a sex worker with HIV who abandoned her.

This house will become noisier now, she said, laughing.

Through Kebaya, she tries to rebut peoples assumptions that the ODHA will not live long. She says that with the right treatment and care, they can expect to live as long as people who do not have HIV.

It is not HIV that claims the lives of the ODHA. They die because of psychological distress, which later influences them to reject a healthy lifestyle, including refusing to routinely take their medicine [antiretrovirals], she said.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 08:32 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51af177 1 City Jakarta-administration,officials,pension,fund Free

Jakarta Deputy Governor Sandiaga Uno has said he will question city secretary Saefullah over a report that a retired official did not get his salary.

The former agency head, who was dismissed from his post and is now retired, previously complained that nearly a month after his dismissal he had yet to receive an official letter of his dismissal. He said he was also not paid.

"I will check with the city secretary. However, all their rights are supposed to be honored," Sandiaga told reporters at City Hall on Monday as quoted by kompas.com.

The former head, who requested anonymity, said he, along with other dismissed officials, felt uncertain about their future.

The administration has been demoting officials recently in what it claims is a move to improve services to the public. However, the decision sparked controversy as the State Civilian Bureaucracy Commission (KASN) alleged that there had been maladministration in the implementation of the policy.

The city reportedly failed to show the assessment reports of the officials when the KASN probed the case. (fac)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 09:03 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51b37e7 2 National #corruption,corruption,KPK,#KPK,Corruption-court,Hulu-Sungai-Tengah Free

Prosecutors from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has demanded that the Jakarta Corruption Court sentence Abdul Latif, the suspended regent of Hulu Sungai Tengah regency in South Kalimantan, to eight years in prison in a bribery case related to the construction of a regency-owned hospital.

We demand that the judges declare the defendant guilty beyond reasonable doubt of committing corruption, prosecutor Kresno Anto Wibowo said in court on Monday as reported by kompas.com.

Prosecutors said Abdul was proven to have accepted Rp 3.6 billion (US$248,614) in bribes, which were allegedly paid by local construction company PT Menara Agung Pusaka to secure a 2017 bid on the procurement of a number of hospital rooms.

They added that Abdul, in his capacity as a local leader, had betrayed the trust of people.

The KPK arrested Abdul during an operation in January.

During its investigation into the former regent, KPK investigators confiscated 16 luxury cars, including two Jeep Rubicons and motorcycles belonging to him. (ipa)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 07:37 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51a38eb 2 National #Jokowi,Gerindra-Party,#Gerindra,Jokowi,2019-presidential-election,#2019PresidentialElection Free

President Joko Jokowi Widodo defended his recent speech on Monday, which has stirred accusations of inciting hatred by his opponents, saying that he never intended to promote violence.

I said [at that time] that our biggest asset is [the nations] unity. Therefore let us refrain from inciting hatred and mocking others.

That was what [my speech] was about, he said as quoted by kompas.com. Please watch it [the speech] thoroughly and in context.

He was referring to a controversial speech he made on Saturday during a national meeting with thousands of his supporters in Bogor, West Java.

In his speech, Jokowi urged his supporters, who have worked on his campaign since the 2014 presidential election, to avoid inciting hatred or making libelous statements to attack rival camps during the campaign.

But his statement, which called on his supporters to take on the challenge to fight bravely, immediately provoked accusations from his opponents, including the Gerindra Party who said it could be interpreted as a call to violence.

In his speech, Jokowi also used the word berantem, an Indonesian term that generally refers to a physical conflict between two or more individuals.

His controversial comment came just after the registration for presidential candidate pairs opened on Saturday.

Jokowis nomination has been officially announced but the candidacy of Gerindras presumptive presidential candidate, Prabowo Subianto, Jokowis rival in 2014, is yet to be confirmed. Neither Jokowi nor Prabowo have named running mates. (ipa)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 07:42 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51a3d3e 2 National #SupremeCourt,Supreme-Court,ICJR,Jambi,#Jambi,rape-victim,#rape,abortion,trial,#trial Free

A Jakarta-based activist group, the Institute for Criminal Justice Reform (ICJR), has demanded that the Supreme Court (MA) improve its handling of cases involving women, citing the lack of implementation of an existing regulation.

The MA should evaluate whether the regulation has been implemented by lower and high court judges in provinces across the country, the ICJRs Maidina Rahmawati said on Sunday as quoted by kompas.com.

She was referring to a 2017 Supreme Court Regulation on procedures for handling cases related to women.

The regulation stipulates that a judge must assess, among others, the possible lack of legal protection and discriminatory access to justice and psychological factors of women facing trial, as well as a gender power structure surrounding them.

She criticized the court for focusing too much on efforts to familiarize judges with the regulation, but failed to make these judges understand the real issue of discrimination the women were potentially facing at court.

Training for judges is also essential to let them know how to examine such cases thoroughly and to consider all available factors, including the background of a case, she said.

Her statement came in light of the controversial conviction of a 15-year-old girl in Jambi last month who was sentenced to six months in jail for aborting her pregnancy after being raped by her own brother.

The verdict against the teenage rape victim sparked criticism from human rights activists who believed that her trial was flawed, mainly due to the fact that both the victim and the perpetrator were represented by the same lawyer in two different cases, for abortion and sexual assault. (ipa)
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Linkedin Ruslan Sangadji (The Jakarta Post) Palu, Central Sulawesi  Tue, August 7, 2018 06:01 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51a33c7 1 National central-sulawesi,sexual-abuse,kidnapping,child-abuse,Toli-toli,shaman,rape Free

In a bizarre case involving alleged witchcraft, a local shaman and a family dispute, police rescued a 28-year-old woman who had been held captive in a hole for 15 years in Central Sulawesi on Sunday.

The woman, identified only as HS, was found in a crevice between several very large rocks near Galumpang village, Tolitoli regency, Central Sulawesi, after police received a report that she was being hidden by an 83-year-old village shaman named Jago.

The victims family had long lost hope that she would be found and had given up, but after detaining and interrogating Jago, police discovered that HS was being held in the hole, the entrance to which measured around 1 by 1.5 meters, and rescued her.

We found the victim in a gap between rocks, Tolitoli Police chief Adj. Sr. Comr. M. Iqbal Alqudusy told The Jakarta Post on Monday.

Iqbal said police were still investigating further, but that based on preliminary findings, they suspected that Jago was holding HS to fulfill his sexual needs. Iqbal said Jago himself had said he kept HS as a sacrifice to conjure a jin (spirit).

HS told police she had missed her period several times and Jago had given her a potion to abort the fetus.

The police have declared Jago a suspect and charged him under Article 76e of the 2014 Child Protection Law, with more charges likely to follow.

The article forbids people from threatening, forcing, or deceiving children to participate in fornication and carries a maximum sentence of 15 years' imprisonment.

According to Iqbal, Jago was well known in the village for his traditional healing methods, and was also consulted by residents who were experiencing marital, romantic or business problems.

When he treated people, [Jago] would act as if he was being possessed, so many people believed him, said Iqbal.

Police mark the hole where a woman was kept for 15 years by the village shaman in Tolitoli regency, Central Sulawesi. (Courtesy of Muhammad Sabran/-)

Village resident Sugeng said Jago was reported to have tricked HS, who was only 13 at the time, by promising to marry her to a jin that he was friends with.

Jago also reportedly told HS that the jin was guarding the hole where she was hidden to stop her from leaving.

The victim seems to have been brainwashed, making her afraid to run away and afraid to meet other people because she was being watched by a jin, Sugeng said.

He added that after HS' initial disappearance in 2003, Jago told her parents that he had seen her leave for Jakarta to find work.

In a bid to convince them that HS was really in Jakarta, Jago delivered basic foodstuffs to her parents and claimed that they were the results of her working in Jakarta.

As more time passed, Jago said he no longer knew of HS' whereabouts, and HS' parents eventually gave up looking for her.

The whole thing was just made up by [Jago], Sugeng said.

In another twist to the tale, the victims sister allegedly knew about her ordeal. Her sister is married to Jagos son so she kept quiet until she argued with her husband and threatened to report Jago's kidnapping of her little sister. A neighbor heard her statement and reported it to the police, said Sugeng.

Both the sister and her husband were questioned by the police, with a possibility of them becoming suspects depending on the results of the investigation.

Central Sulawesi womens rights activist Eva Vande denounced Jagos deeds and urged police to take firm action.

The perpetrator needs to be severely punished, she said.

National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) commissioner Magdalena Sitorus said the commission had yet to receive a report on the case but would provide recommendations if they were called upon.

She added that law enforcement should thoroughly investigate the case to ensure that all the facts come out.

Since the perpetrator was well-respected in the village, there is a possibility that there are other victims that have not yet come forward because they are afraid, she said.

She said that authorities should also pay special attention to HS as she would have suffered severe trauma during her years of confinement.

The victim should be brought to a hospital for psychological and reproductive health examinations, she said, adding that HS might also need psychiatric attention. Who knows what kind of changes 15 years have brought her.

Karina M. Tehusijarana contributed to this story from Jakarta.
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Linkedin Ni Komang Erviani (The Jakarta Post) Denpasar  Tue, August 7, 2018 11:21 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51bcf69 1 National Lombok-earthquake,BenoaBay,#LombokEarthquake,tourists,foreign-tourists,bali,Gili-islands Free

More than 1,290 tourists, mostly foreign nationals, who evacuated from three popular islets off the northwest coast of Lombok in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB)  Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno  have been arriving at Benoa Bay in neighboring Bali from Monday evening through Tuesday morning.

The Gili islets have reportedly been experiencing an electricity blackout and lack of clean water since a 7-magnitude earthquake struck Lombok on Sunday evening. Some tourists were injured during the earthquake and require medical treatment.

Five private vessels and one dispatched by state-owned shipping operator PT Pelni have been transporting tourists on the islets to Bali and the main island of Lombok.

Some of them have been transported from the Gilis to Lombok, but they got stuck there. It was a bit difficult for them to get food or passage [to Bali], so we decided to transport [them] here, Benoa Port authority chief Dwiyanto said in Bali on Tuesday.

Association of Indonesian Tour and Travel Agencies (ASITA) chairman Ketut Ardana said SITA had provided free transportation to help the evacuees arrive at their next destinations.

Weve also offered a 50 percent discount for accommodations for at least one night, he added.

The Bali Tourism Agency also provided free transportation to different tourist spots, such as Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu and Ubud. (swd)
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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7 2018

Steps forward: The president director of diversified conglomerate PT Astra International, Prijono Sugiarto (right), speaks alongside the companys chief of corporate communications, social responsibility and security, Pongki Pamungkas, during a visit to The Jakarta Post last Friday. The company is optimistic about its performance moving forward as it steps up efforts to develop other lines of business. (JP/Ricky Yudhistira)

Despite increasing competition in automotive business, diversified conglomerate Astra International is optimistic its performance will improve this year as a result of its efforts to develop other business lines.

According to Astras financial report, its revenue grew 15 percent to Rp 112.55 trillion (US$7.76 billion) in the first half of this year, while its profit rose 11 percent to Rp 10.38 trillion.
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Linkedin Suherdjoko, N. Adri, Djemi Amnifu, Ganug Nugroho Adi and Syofiardi Bachyul Jb (The Jakarta Post) Semarang/Balikpapan/Kupang/Surakarta/Padang  Tue, August 7, 2018 17:45 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51d3eab 1 National Lombok-earthquake,relief-efforts,rendang,#LombokEarthquake,disaster-mitigation Free

Civil society groups and local authorities from across the archipelago have been lending a hand in relief efforts in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara by sending out assistance from basic survival kits to ready-to-eat dishes such as beef rendang for those affected by the quake.

A powerful earthquake killed over 100 people and injured hundreds in the province.

The West Sumatra administration has pledged to send to Lombok at least 400 kilograms of beef rendang, a world-renowned local dish from the province.

Civil servants from the provincial office and other agencies have contributed to [cooking] rendang and we have managed to collect 400 kilograms so far, West Sumatra administration spokesperson Jasman Rizal said on Tuesday, adding that the administration might send some more as residents were welcome to participate.

[Rendang] is delicious and it can last for quite a long time, he said.

Meanwhile, universities and a hospital in Semarang, Central Java, have gradually dispatched dozens of medical professionals, including surgeons, anesthetists, general physicians, nurses and other medical support to Lombok since Tuesday.

Four doctors, who are alumni of Sultan Agung Universitys Medical School, have arrived in Lombok, two more doctors will be arriving later today and three others will fly tomorrow, Central Java Rescue member Adex Tisna told The Jakarta Post on Tuesday.

Diponegoro Universitys Care for Lombok will also deploy five specialists, including surgeons and anesthetists, five psychologists and four public health experts, who will depart on Wednesday. Sixteen medical professionals from Dr. Kariadi Hospital will also depart for Lombok tomorrow.

The Surakarta Red Cross in Central Java is sending a medical team, ambulances, blood supplies and medicine to Lombok.

The team will stay there for a week, Surakarta Red Cross secretary Sumartono Hadinoto said.

After a week, another team will be dispatched to extend the work.

Plan International Indonesia Foundation has sent 500 shelter kits comprising tents, blankets and rugs, from neighboring East Nusa Tenggara.

Meanwhile, West Nusa Tenggara natives currently living in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, also collected money to help their fellows in Lombok.

The amount of money may not be significant, but we hope this will help them, Bima-Dompu Youth Forum chairman Jufriadin said. (swd)
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Linkedin James Edgar (Agence France-Presse) Paris  Tue, August 7, 2018 10:10 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51b91d9 2 World Europe,environment,weather,climate-change Free

Europe baked in near-record temperatures on Monday but some respite was on the horizon after weeks of nonstop sunshine as people come to terms with what may prove to be the region's new normal in an era of climate change.

Here is a roundup of recent developments:

A farmer with his dog looks at his cows sheltered from the heat in the cowshed, on August 6, 2018 in Mitschdorf, eastern France, as a heatwave sweeps across Europe. (AFP/Patrick Hertzog)

- France nearing a peak -

Temperatures were expected to peak at around 37 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit) in southern France on Monday, while the north is due to be hotter on Tuesday. On Saturday, they hit their highest levels since a 2003 heatwave killed thousands of mainly elderly people.

Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said people had to take proper care to cope with the heat and warned that everyone had to adapt.

"You need to drink a lot, but also to eat and take salt," Buzyn said.

"We are probably going to adapt our warnings in the coming years, because this is something we haven't been seeing until now."

People walk in a fountain in front of the Berlin Cathedral as the heatwave in Europe continues with temperatures reaching 33 degrees Celsius in Berlin on August 4, 2018. (AFP/John Macdougall)

- Spain fires under control-

In Spain the death toll rose to seven after a 40-year-old German man on the Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James) pilgrimage succumbed to heat stroke on Sunday in the eastern region of Extremadura, a spokeswoman for Spain's Guardia Civil police force told AFP.

Local officials also recorded other heat stroke deaths in the Extremadura and Catalonia regions.

Firefighters, benefitting from calmer winds, were meanwhile gaining control of a wildfire in the southwestern province of Huelva, just across the border from the Algarve in southern Portugal.

Temperatures remained high, especially in the southeast where they were forecast to hit 40-42 C.

- Portugal fires -

In Portugal, temperatures have eased slightly but not by enough to make the job of some 1,100 firefighters aided by 160 soldiers in Monchique any easier pending the expected arrival of two Spanish Canadair firefighting planes.

Monchique, in southern Portugal, was shrouded in thick clouds of smoke early Monday after the authorities evacuated several houses overnight, with 24 people injured, one seriously.

Rescue officials initially expressed optimism they were getting the better of the raging fire. But in a new update they appeared less confident. Abel Gomes, one of the heads of the civil protection service, said the situation "had unfortunately changed".

"We have witnessed flare-ups of great intensity" fanned by strong winds, he added.

The weather service said that after Saturday's peak, temperatures were back below 45 C and should continue lower over the next few days.

People line up to jump off a diving tower on the shore of the lake Ammersee near the small Bavarian village of Utting, southern Germany, as the heatwave in Europe continues with temperatures reaching over 30 degrees Celcius during the late afternoon on August 4, 2018. (AFP/Christof Stache)

- Fresh spike in Germany -

Germany expects a fresh spike mid-week to around 39 C before temperatures ease, with official figures showing the average for April-July running 3.6 degrees higher than the 1961-1990 reference period.

Farmers continued to plead for help, with the president of Germany's farmers' association, Joachim Rukwied, saying a billion euros ($1.15 billion) in government aid may be necessary as crop failure rates hit 70 percent in some areas.

More than a million children returned to school on Monday in three German states - Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland and Hesse -- but some were allowed to go home early because of the heatwave.

- British islands in trouble -

Britain saw continued hot weather in the south with a maximum of 32 C but it was cooler and cloudier in the north.

Reports said the persistent lack of rain has hit the country's more remote islands, such as Lundy in the Bristol Channel -- with a population in the dozens -- which is now reliant on bottled water from the mainland after local supplies ran dry.

Arran in Scotland, the Isle of Scilly in southwest England and Jersey in the Channel Islands have all asked people to cut water consumption, the Daily Express report added.

A woman looks through the glass of the enclosure of a Polar bear as he cools off in the water at the zoo in Mulhouse on August 3, 2018, as parts of Europe continue to swelter in an ongoing heatwave. (AFP/Sebastien Bozon)

- Netherlands -

The heatwave has hit the low-lying Netherlands hard like many other countries but no one thought it could be a threat to its world-famous system of dams and canals designed to keep the sea at bay.

Women take a selfie next to cooling shelves in a local grocery store that invites customers for a sleepover to cool off as the heatwave in Europe continues, in Helsinki, on August 4, 2018. (AFP/Heikki Saukkomaa / Lehtikuva)

River levels have fallen so low that seawater is seeping in to waterways, and the Rijkswaterstaat, which manages the national water system, has been opening barrages inland to flush it out.

Meanwhile in the city of Utrecht, the clock hands on the famous medieval Dom Tower have stood still since Friday at 11:23 after the hot temperatures warped the mechanism.

The European Association of Fruit and Vegetable Processors (Profel), based in neighbouring Belgium, lamented the effect of a third straight year of prolonged drought conditions.

"The extreme weather conditions experienced around Europe can lead to losses on the fields in both quality and quantity," a Profel statement said, warning of a "severe shortage in supplies in the coming period for all vegetable crops."

- Greek fire toll rises to 91 -

Greece was a little cooler but the toll in last month's wildfire northeast of Athens rose to 91 as a 95-year-old woman died of her injuries, officials said.

Another 36 people remain hospitalised after the July 23 disaster, six of them in critical condition.

- Scorching Scandinavia -

Wildfires that have been raging across Sweden are abating, emergency services SOS Alarm said, adding that the blazes were down to eight on Monday.

The nation's far north saw heavy rainfall on Monday, authorities said, after record heat in the Arctic Circle triggered drought and wildfires. Drought is persisting in many other areas of the country.

In neighboring Finland, a Helsinki supermarket opened its doors overnight Saturday to customers seeking refuge from the heat.

In a video released on Facebook, the K-Supermarket showed customers chilling on mattresses and in sleeping bags.

A man holds an umbrella to protect himself from the sun during a ho Summer day in front of the Ancient Colosseum in central Rome on August 2, 2018, as Italy is experiencing a summer heatwave with temperatures approaching 40 degrees Celsius. (AFP/Andreas Solaro)
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Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7 2018

Defying the sweltering heat, 100 people representing some 8,000 workers fired by PT Freeport Indonesia marched through the busy streets of Jakarta last week to voice their demand for justice.

They had come all the way from the mining town of Timika in Papua after a 10-day ferry trip paid for with money chipped in by the ex-workers.

During the 3-kilometer march between the Muhammadiyah headquarters where they were put up and the Indonesian Communion of Churches (PGI) headquarters, they used theatrical acts to grab significant attention from people in the street. This included carrying a mock coffin and holding banners summarizing their demands.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 11:29 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51bd6be 1 Business Lombok-earthquake,government,assistance,Sri-Mulyani-Indrawati,#LombokEarthquake Free

Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati assured that the government would allocate a budget to help victims of an earthquake in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. Currently, she added, the effort will focus on how to deal with emergency conditions after the natural disaster.

Sri Mulyani said in Jakarta on Monday that the amount of funds depended on the need to save as many lives as possible, which was currently being implemented by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).

The BNPB is ready to implement and we fully support [them] from the budget side so that they can implement the operation quickly, she said as reported by kontan.co.id, adding that the government would also identify damages to the locals' buildings.

Sri Mulyani said the conditions of the buildings would be grouped into three categories  heavy, medium and minor damages.

He said the government already had experience in providing assistance to earthquake victims in Yogyakarta and Padang, particularly on how they will rebuild their houses.

It relates to the assistance given to the victims to rebuild their houses, Sri Mulyani added.

She could not mention the fund prepared by the government to renovate residents houses, saying it depended on the result of the identification of the damage caused by the disaster.

We are ready to [offer] support. About the amount of the governments assistance, it depends on the condition of the houses, the minister added.

The magnitude 7 earthquake in Lombok had causes serious damage to buildings in the areas, including residents' houses. The disaster resulted in more than 90 people dead.(bbn)
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Linkedin Marchio Irfan Gorbiano and Anton Hermansyah (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018

As President Joko Jokowi Widodo is running for a second term in 2019, he may be pinning his hopes on Indonesias consumers, who have become the countrys engine for economic growth in the second quarter this year.



The countrys gross domestic product (GDP) expanded by 5.27 percent year-on-year (yoy) during the second quarter of 2018, the highest rate growth during Jokowis era.



The second-highest GDP growth under Jokowis administration was in the second quarter of 2016, when the figure reached 5.21 percent yoy.



Household spending, which accounted for more than half of GDP growth in the second quarter, grew 5.14 percent, higher than the 4.95 percent booked over the corresponding period last year.



The 5.14 percent private consumption growth in the second quarter marked the first time the component broke through 5 percent in the past two years. It beat the 5.07 percent and 5.01 percent growth figures recorded during the second and third quarters of 2016, respectively, the last time household spending growth was above 5 percent.



Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati said she was overall happy with the data as they were higher than her ministrys initial growth estimates of between 5.16 percent and 5.17 percent in the second quarter, while adding that the government still had work to do to boost investment.



The growth was higher [than expected] and it was a result of strong domestic demand, she said after a Cabinet meeting in Jakarta on Monday. We still have work to do to spur investment so that if GDP grows above 5.2 percent, it would not disturb the countrys balance of payment.

Indonesia's economic growth 2011-2017 (JP/File)

Poverty rate urban and rural area 2011-2018 (JP/File)



Sri Mulyani attributed the positive consumption growth to the governments efforts in maintaining peoples purchasing power, such as stabilizing prices of staple food commodities.



Other positive factors that boosted consumption during the second quarter were the disbursement of the Idul Fitri holiday bonus (THR) as well as 13th salaries for civil servants and pensioners, Sri Mulyani said.



GDP growth in the second quarter of 2018 was higher than 5.06 percent yoy seen a quarter earlier and 5.01 percent the country booked in the second quarter of last year.



Investors appeared to show confidence toward the countrys economic growth as the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) the main gauge of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX)  rose 1.56 percent during Mondays trading session to close at 6,101.13.



However, the second quarter figure remained below Jokowis campaign promise of 7 percent annual growth during his five-year term. It was also lower than the 5.4 percent growth targeted by the government in the 2018 state budget.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 17:10 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51d2319 1 National dog-meat,animal-abuse,animal-welfare Free

The government has agreed to issue a regulation banning the trade in dog meat amid concerns over the spread of rabies and animal abuse following a series of campaigns against the consumption of dog meat in the country.

The pledge was made during a two-day meeting on the National Coordination of Animal Welfare in Jakarta earlier this month, which was attended by government representatives from the Agriculture Ministry and NGOs.

All national participants agreed to issue a ban on the trade of dog meat in Indonesia and to prohibit the issuance of health certifications for dog meat for human consumption, the Dog Meat-Free Indonesia coalition said in a statement to The Jakarta Post on Tuesday.

The coalition comprises local and international pro-animal welfare groups such as the Jakarta Animan Aid Network (JAAN), Animal Friends Jogja (AFJ), Change for Animal Foundation (CFAF), London-based Humane Society International (HSI) and Four Paws (FP). They have long campaigned against dog meat consumption and the cruelty behind the trade.

The results of the meeting, initiated by the ministrys directorate of veterinary public health, will be used as a recommendation to formulate a ministerial regulation regarding the ban on the dog and cat meat trade as well as other exotic animals in Indonesia. No further details were available as to when the regulation will be issued.

The statement cited the ministrys director of veterinary public health, Syamsul Maarif, who was reported as saying that the trade posed a risk to Indonesias international reputation.

Foreign countries find a low standard of animal welfare and cruelty unacceptable and will stop visiting Indonesia, which is bad for tourism," he said as quoted by the statement, adding that the trade in dog meat and animals that were not registered as farm animals were illegal.

The coalition commended the move, saying that the regulation would be a victory for animal welfare that it would make Indonesia dog-meat free.

HSI president Kitty Block said the organization applauded the Indonesian governments pledge to end the brutal dog meat trade.

We hope that this bold step will send a strong message to other countries across Asia, such as China, South Korea, India and Vietnam where 30 million dogs and 10 million cats suffer unimaginable cruelty for the meat trade, many of them stolen pets, Block added.

Several regions in the country such as Central Java, Yogyakarta, Bali, North Sumatra and North Sulawesi are known to have dishes made of dog meat that are sold at street food stalls and restaurants. In Surakarta, Central Java, an estimated 1,200 dogs are slaughtered and eaten daily by dog-meat connoisseurs in the city. (sau/rin)
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 14:42 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51c68e6 4 Business sugar,Trade-Ministry,policy,criticism,lawmaker Free

A House of Representatives lawmaker criticized the Trade Ministrys policy that requires the State Logistics Agency (Bulog) to purchase sugar from local farmers at a benchmarked price  Rp 9,700 (67 US cents)  per kilogram, while at the same time allowing the import of raw sugar.

Farmers wont gain any profit from the benchmark sugar price of Rp 9,700 per kg, said Nasril Bahar, a member of the Houses Commission VI overseeing trade, investment and industry affairs, on Monday as reported by tribunnews.com.

It will be a great dilemma when sugar prices are high and Bulog is forced to buy sugar from farmers at high prices. Meanwhile, the Trade Ministry also continues to allow import of raw sugar.

The ministrys policy to allow large-scale import of raw sugar was contradictory to the sugarcane farmers interest, said Nasril, adding that such a policy had caused difficulty to both farmers and Bulog.

He said only importers of raw sugar and entrepreneurs who processed raw sugar into white crystalline sugar benefitted from the governments sugar policy, while local farmers suffered because the price of sugar they produced was often higher than the price of imported sugar.

Nasril said entrepreneurs benefiting from raw sugar imports would not buy sugarcane from farmers because it would be less beneficial.

Therefore, he called on President Joko Jokowi Widodo to protect the interests of local sugarcane farmers and Bulog during the harvest season by not allowing the ministry to issue permits to import raw sugar.

He claimed that raw sugar import had exceeded the limit. (acr/bbn)
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Linkedin News Desk (Agence France-Presse) Moscow, Russia  Mon, August 6, 2018 01:00 1179 dcc1aefb9780f102b77c720ee8017269 2 World #Russia,Athens,Moscow,diplomat Free

Russia on Monday said it summoned the Greek ambassador in Moscow to inform him of "reciprocal measures" after Athens expelled two Russian diplomats over allegations of meddling with its relations with Macedonia.

Ambassador Andreas Fryganas "was given a note informing him Russia is taking reciprocal measures in response to unfriendly actions by Athens," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement.

Contacted by AFP, the ministry did not want to elaborate on the "reciprocal measures," suggesting two Greek diplomats were expelled.

Athens expelled two Russian diplomats and banned two Russian citizens from entering the country, according to a previous statement by the Russian foreign ministry.

Greece did not provide details on the measures, only saying it acted in the "national interest" after "interference" by Russian officials in its name dispute with Macedonia.

Russia already summoned Fryganas in July, when it accused the United States of being "behind the anti-Russian decision of the Greek government which was timed to coincide with the opening of the NATO summit."

The Greek ERT1 public television channel said Athens accuses the Russians of trying to stir protests against a recent agreement with Skopje on a new official name for Macedonia.

The designation of the former Yugoslav country is a sensitive diplomatic issue since Greece has a northern region of the same name.

Athens and Skopje signed an accord last month to resolve the decades-long dispute over the Balkan state's use of the name Macedonia, which is also the name of a northern Greek province.

The two nations came to an agreement to call the country the Republic of North Macedonia. Approved by the parliament in Skopje, it will next be put to a referendum.
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Linkedin Marguerite Afra Sapiie and Nurul Fitri Ramadhani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 19:15 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51d7a85 1 Politics 2019-presidential-election,PAN,National-Mandate-Party,PDI-P,politics,Indonesian-politics,presidential-candidate,coalition Free

There is a likelihood that the National Mandate Party (PAN) joins the coalition of parties that backs President Joko Jokowi Widodos reelection bid, despite uncertainty over whether the party will support him in the 2019 presidential election, a senior politician from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) has said.

We will see [...] whether there will be nine or 10 political parties that back [Jokowi], Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung said at the Presidential Palace on Tuesday.

The ruling PDI-P is part of a coalition of nine political parties that supports the incumbent leader. The coalition is currently preparing to register a presidential candidate pair at the General Elections Commission (KPU) on Friday, the deadline for registration.

Pramono, however, refused to elaborate on whether the coalition was in serous talks with PAN.

PAN is technically still a member of the pro-government coalition, but it has shown signs of leaving it following cooperation with opposition parties in the Gerindra Party and the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) in the 2017 Jakarta gubernatorial election, which resulted in a victory for Anies Baswedan and Sandiaga Uno.

Still, PAN has yet to officially support either Jokowi or his prospective contender, Gerindras Prabowo Subianto.

Separately, PAN secretary-general Eddy Soeparno said he could not confirm whether his party would officially support Prabowos coalition.

Were still in the process of discussing [which coalition to back]. We have yet to come to a conclusion, Eddy said on Tuesday.

The party planned to make a final decision in its national working meeting, which was initially scheduled on Aug. 6 to 7. However, party elites later postponed the meeting over internal matters, saying that they needed time to gather input from party members.

Speculation is rife that PANs indecisiveness was due to division within the party, with chairman Zulkifli Hasan reportedly inclined to join Jokowi's camp while patron Amien Rais, one of the staunchest critics of the President, prefers Prabowo.

PAN has long been associated with Muhammadiyah, the second-largest Muslim organization, and its endorsement would give a boost to any camp it supports.

Jokowi met with the Muhammadiyah Student Association (IMM) at the Presidential Palace on Monday. The group handed the President a list of suggestions for his key government programs, adding fuel to speculation.

Muhammadiyah chairman Haedar Nashir swiftly brushed off any rumors, saying that, as a mass organization, the group had distanced itself from politics. (rin)
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Linkedin N Adri (The Jakarta Post) Balikpapan  Tue, August 7, 2018 13:32 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51c3148 1 Business pertamina,Sanga-sanga-Block,operation,East-Kalimantan Free

State energy holding company Pertamina is set to operate the Sanga-Sanga oil and gas block in East Kalimantan starting on Wednesday after the government decided to replace the existing operator  oil and gas firm Virginia Indonesia Company (VICO)  with the former.

VICO has operated the block for more than four decades.

Pertamina, which will be represented by its subsidiary Pertamina Hulu Sanga-Sanga (PHSS), will continue the plans made by VICO and will employ existing workers, said head of Upstream Oil and Gas Regulatory Special Task Forces (SKKMigas) Kalimantan-Sulawesi chapter Syaifuddin on Monday.

Pertamina will still partner with VICO to operate the block, he said, adding that the company had also vowed to drill two new wells this year and 29 new wells in 2019.

The current production of the block is at around 16,000 barrel oil equivalent per day (boepd) and 70 million metric standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) of gas.

Currently there are seven gas fields in the Sanga-Sanga Block, namely; Badak, Nilam, Pemaguan, Semberah, Mutiara, Beras and Lempake. The gas is to supply the domestic market and also to be exported.

The oil and gas blocks in East Kalimantan, including the Sanga-Sanga Block, contribute 35 percent of national oil and gas production, according to SKKMigas data.

Previously, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Ignasius Jonan said said the Sanga-Sanga Block was one of the 12 blocks that were granted to Pertamina as compensation for the company to implement the governments program to maintain the fuel prices affordable to the people. (bbn)
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Linkedin Agnes Anya (The Jakarta Post) Nusa Dua, Bali  Tue, August 7 2018

The Indonesian government has expressed concern about a lack of communication between Myanmar and Bangladesh over the Rakhine crisis on the sidelines of the 7th Bali Process Ministerial Conference.

While the Bali Process started with a senior officials meeting on Monday, Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi held a series of bilateral meetings with her counterparts, including from Myanmar.

We talked very openly [] about the latest situation in Rakhine, Retno told a press conference at the Westin Hotel in Nusa Dua, Bali, describing the one-hour meeting with Myanmars Home Affairs Minister Lt. Gen. Kyaw Swe.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 18:00 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51d5283 1 City Idul-Adha,qurban,student,donation Free

The Jakarta Education Agency has told schools in the city not to force students to donate money for Idul Adha qurban (sacrificial animals), following a report that state senior high school SMA 101 in Joglo, West Jakarta, had asked its students to donate at least Rp 50,000 (US$3.50) each.

I stated that students should not be forced to donate toward qurban, because it is supposed to be a learning experience, the agency acting head Bowo Irianto said on Monday, wartakota.tribunnews.com reported.

He said that if a school wanted to collect qurban donations, it should not set a minimum amount that students must give.

We have also summoned the school [SMA 101 for questioning]. Donations [should be voluntary and without pressure], and no minimum amount set, he said.

Several SMA 101 students complained that they could not focus on studying as teachers came into their classrooms during study hours to ask for qurban donations.

Some of my friends havent donated yet. [The teachers] kind of force the students to pay, said a 16-year-old student who asked for anonymity.

SMA 101 representative Sartini confirmed that the school had asked for qurban donations but denied that students were forced to donate.

Child Protection Commission secretary-general Dhanang Sasongko said that forcing students to donate was a form of psychological intimidation of students, and it constituted a crime according Law No. 35/2014 on child protection.

He urged the education agency to further investigate the case and fire any teachers who forced students to donate.

The Idul Adha day of sacrifice is expected to fall on Aug. 22. (ami)
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Linkedin Riza Roidila Mufti (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 15:15 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51ca62e 1 Business Chinese-carmaker-DFSK Free

Chinese Automaker DFSK plans to release more of its sport utility vehicle (SUV) products in Indonesia in the coming years, said PT Sokonindo Automobile, which holds the right to the DFSK brand.

Sokonindo Automobile sales center managing director Franz Wang said DFSK would focus more on the SUV segment, one of the most competitive segments in the automotive industry.

This is a segment that people like. DFSK will focus on SUV technology. This year, we introduced our first SUV and in the coming years, we plan to introduce more SUV products here, Wang said recently during the ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2018.

The auto show is running through Aug. 12 at the Indonesia Convention Exhibition (ICE) in Tangerang, Banten.

Wang added that DFSK also planned to introduce more SUV variants, including hybrid and artificial intelligence models.

A newcomer on the automotive scene, DFSK introduced its SUV Glory 580 along with the Super Cab pick-up in April. The carmaker started selling the two models of cars on July 19 and is eyeing greater exposure through GIIAS 2018.

Even though the company has just begun tapping into the SUV segment, competing against other mainstays in the same segment like the Mitsubishi Pajero, Toyota Fortuner and Daihatsu Terios, Wang expressed his optimism for the Indonesian market.

Basically, Indonesia is a big auto market. Any car segment already has players, but we believe the SUV is a global trend in the business. People are upgrading their consumption. Maybe they used to buy passenger cars like sedans or MPVs, but when they want to buy a new car, it is going to be an SUV, he said.

DFSK's combined sales target for this year is 5,000 units of SUVs and pick-ups. Ten days after launching its SUV in July, Wang said more than 300 people had taken an interest in the SUV Glory 580 and wanted to place orders. (bbn)
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Linkedin (Reuters) Geneva  Tue, August 7, 2018 13:36 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51c3451 2 Business US,Indonesia,Trade,trade-war,Dispute,sanction,WTO Free

The United States has asked the World Trade Organization to let it impose sanctions on Indonesia after winning a trade dispute that it said cost U.S. business up to $350 million in 2017, a U.S. filing published by the WTO showed on Monday.

The United States and New Zealand both won WTO rulings last year against Indonesian import restrictions on food, plants and animal products, including apples, grapes, potatoes, onions, flowers, juice, dried fruit, cattle, chicken and beef.

Indonesia also lost an appeal.

The latest U.S. filing said Indonesia had not complied with the ruling, so Washington was seeking annual sanctions to compensate for the damage done to U.S. interests.

"Based on a preliminary analysis of available data for certain products, this level is provisionally estimated at up to approximately $350 million for 2017," it said.

"The United States will update this figure annually, as Indonesia's economy continues to expand.

Indonesia is still studying the U.S. move to seek sanctions, said Oke Nurwan, trade ministry's director general of foreign trade, adding that authorities believe Jakarta had complied with the WTO panel decision. He said rules on Indonesian food imports had already been revised.

The process of seeking compensation often take years, and Indonesia is likely to contest the size of any potential sanctions.

There was no immediate sign of a similar sanctions request from New Zealand, which said last year Indonesia's restrictions were estimated to have cost New Zealand beef sector up to NZ$1 billion. ($673 million)

Indonesia has been lobbying senior U.S. officials to keep the Southeast Asian nation on a list of countries that receive special trade terms under the Generalized System of Preferences, a facility that gives reduced tariffs to about $2 billion of Indonesian exports.

The U.S. Trade Representative's Office in April said it was reviewing Indonesia's eligibility for GSP in light of Jakarta's imposition of a wide array of trade and investment barriers that create serious negative effects on U.S. commerce.

Indonesia's trade minister Enggartiasto Lukita in July said he will advise Washington that Indonesia will remove trade barriers for U.S. apples following a WTO ruling as part of lobbying for GSP.

Indonesia scrapped a quota system for beef imports in 2016.
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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, August 7, 2018 12:49 1178 b147f6715e2195e5246e701df51c12b4 1 National whale,environment,animal-conservation,Sulawesi,Indonesia Free

Residents of Nambo village in Buton, Southeast Sulawesi, have successfully rescued four short-finned pilot whales that were trapped in the mangroves of Lawele Bay, and footage of the rescue has been making the rounds on social media.

The video appeared on the Facebook account of a resident named Adi Bakri on July 29. The rescue reportedly took place two days earlier.

Thank God we managed to save four whales that were trapped [in the mangroves]. Elderly villagers said this was a sign; re-occurrence of 1995, he wrote in the caption of the video, which has been viewed around 199,000 times so far and shared by 3,700 people.

Adi was referring to a similar rescue of whales trapped in the same area in 1995.

The Makassar working unit head of the Kendari Coastal and Marine Resources Management Center (BPSPL), Jupri, confirmed to The Jakarta Post on Tuesday that someone named Adi Bakri had told him about last weeks rescue.

Up to 11 people were involved in the mission, he added.

We suspect that the whales were looking for food in Lawele Bay because the area has a lot of anchovy this time of year, he said, adding that short-finned pilot whales mostly eat small fish, squid and octopuses.

Another theory is that the recent extreme weather, such as high waves or increase in water temperature, prompted them to head to shallow waters.

Jufri explained that Lawele Bay, which is located in Banda Sea, was a migration path for sea mammals. Therefore, despite the rare incident, he said the BPSPL would train Nambo residents on how to safely rescue trapped whales or dolphins.

Fortunately, no whales were wounded during the rescue; only a few scratches caused by friction against oysters attached to the mangrove roots when they were trapped, Jufri said. (sau/dmr)
Film festival season is the time of year that we get first looks and critics reactions to what will go on to be the big award season films. Heres a look at the films were most excited for from Toronto International Film Festival this year!

1. Widows (dir. Steve Mcqueen)



Premiering at TIFF and opening London Film Festival later this year, the 12 Years a Slave director is back with Widows, an explosive female-led action thriller. The cast alone will blow your mind  Viola Davis, Michelle Rodriguez, Cynthia Erivo, and Elizabeth Debicki work together as widows of a late criminal gang, while Colin Farrell, Jon Bernthal, Daniel Kaluuya, and Brian Tyree Henry make up the sinister roster of bad guys. Its no doubt one to watch out for!

2. If Beale Street Could Talk (dir. Barry Jenkins)

Moonlight director Barry Jenkins James Baldwin adaptation will be premiering at the fest, starring newcomers Kiki Lane as Tish, a Harlem dweller trying to prove her fiance Fonny (Stephan James) innocent of a crime. The film also stars Pedro Pascal (Narcos), Ed Skrein (Deadpool) and Brian Tyree Henry once more, and looks set to be a tearjerker.

3. Beautiful Boy (dir. Felix van Groeningen)



Another award season alum, Timothee Chalamet (Call Me By Your Name, Lady Bird) is back this year playing a father-son duo with Steve Carrell in this heart-wrencher based on the memoir of the father, David Sheff. The family faced struggles with addiction, relapse, and recovery, but the key message is an inspiring one of survival against all odds.

4. High Life (dir. Claire Denis)

 Credit: Wild Bunch

Gravity (2013) meets Lost in Space in this Robert Pattinsonstarring Claire Denis film. After his incredible foray into indie film last year with the electric Good Time, Pattinson has once again found an brilliant collaborator in Denis. High Life follows a father an daughter struggling to survive in the isolation of deep space, and we cant wait to see how Pattinson inevitably blows us away in the sci-fi genre too, alongside co-stars including Juliette Binoche.

5. Roma (dir. Alfonso Cuaron)

The Gravity director is also back with a new project this year  Netflixs Roma. The story chronicles a year in the life of a middle-class family in Mexico City in the early 1970s  something thats definitely close to the heart Cuaron, who was raised there. Roma looks more to be in the vein of Y Tu Mama Tambien than The Prisoner of Azkaban, but either way theres no doubt were in for a treat.

6. Life Itself (dir. Dan Fogelman)

A love story from the writer of Crazy, Stupid, Love and Tangled promises great things. Add Oscar Isaac and Olivia Wilde, with a supporting cast including Annette Bening, Mandy Patinkin, Samuel L. Jackson, and Antonio Banderas, and you just know this is going to be amazing. The story follows a young New York couple from college romance to marriage and the birth of their first child, with the unexpected twists of their journey creating reverberations that echo over continents and through lifetimes.

7. Everybody Knows (dir. Asghar Farhadi)

This Spanish-language film opened Cannes this year, and stars megastars Javier Bardem and Penelope Cruz. Laura, a Spanish woman living in Buenos Aires, returns to her hometown outside Madrid with her two children to attend her sister's wedding. However, the trip is upset by unexpected events that bring secrets into the open.

8. The Hate U Give (dir. George Tillman Jr.)

A film based on the novel inspired by the fatal police shooting of Oscar Grant back in 2009 (which also inspired Black Panther director Ryan Cooglers first feature Fruitvale (2013)), The Hate U Give follows Starr (Amandla Sternberg), who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Now, facing pressures from all sides of the community, Starr must find her voice and stand up for what's right.

9. Colette (dir. Wash Westmoreland)

Based on the true story of the early 20th century Parisian novelist, played by Keira Knightley, Colette wrote novels based on her own experiences at boarding school, as well as her own same-sex relationships, published under her avant-garde husbands name. Colette was a pioneer for female independence in a male-dominated society, and Knightley looks at her best in this powerful role.

10. The Sisters Brothers (dir. Jacques Audiard)

Joaquin Phoenix and John C. Reilly star as Charlie and Eli Sisters - the Sisters Brothers - notorious assassins in 1850s Oregon who are on the hunt for a gold prospector, played by Riz Ahmed. Ahmeds Nightcrawler co-star Jake Gyllenhaal rounds out this incredible leading quartet in whats sure to be a fun and intense classic cowboy film from the director of A Prophet (2009) and Rust and Bone (2012).

Another festival film thats due to play not at TIFF but at Venice is The Favourite from director Yorgos Lanthimos (The Killing of a Sacred Deer, The Lobster). Hes collaborating once more with Rachel Weisz and Olivia Colman, and adding Emma Stone and Nicholas Hoult to his cast. the film follows the vying for favour at the court of the frail Queen Anne in early 18th century England.

We know that Widows has been announced as London Film Festivals opening film this year, but well have to wait and see how many of these are coming to London early when the full programme is released!

TIFF runs from 6 Sep 2018  16 Sep 2018.
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Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On August 5, Geely Auto announced the opening of 149 new 4S dealerships in Jiangxi Province. At the same time, the automaker said that the all-new compact sedan Geely Binrui, which will officially hit the market at the end of August, is priced between RMB 90,800 and RMB 118,800 for presale.

Geely Auto has invested a total of RMB 1 billion in the development of 149 new dealerships. Reportedly, the newly-established 4S shops will introduce the brand new visual image for their sales channels and to fully upgrade the 4S shop's facilities in compliance with the sales channel and service standards of the Geely's 3.0 Era.

Dealers' confidence in such great amount of investments has been backed not only by Geely Auto's blooming development momentum, but also by the profitability elevation for the automaker's dealers. It is reported that each Geely's 4S shop delivered 1,314 vehicles in average throughout 2017. Besides, 95% of dealerships achieved balance of payments or positive gains.

Geely Auto has attained constant sales growth year by year, which is why plentiful dealers choose to partner with Geely Auto. In the first half of this year, the automaker saw its cumulative sales surge 44% year on year to 766,630 units, completing 49% of its 1,580,000-unit sales goal. According to the profit forecast released before, Geely might obtain a year-on-year jump of 50% in its net profits for the first six months.

It is noteworthy that Geely Auto's dealers (including NEV dealers) have amounted to 965 nationwide by the end of July, according to relevant data. Particularly, 125 dealers had focused on joint venture brands before they cooperated with Geely Auto.

Reportedly, Geely Auto aims to expand its sales channels to over 1,200 dealerships countrywide by 2020, with the capacity to sell 2 million vehicles and serve 7 million vehicles per year.
At the beginning of the millennium Apple, a company that has achieved the rarity of needing no introduction, had a market value of $6billion.

It has since become the first company to hit the $1trillion valuation mark.

The rise from relative obscurity into a tech juggernaut is not a tale that is unique to the iPhone maker. It is one that holds true for many of the big names - Facebook and Netflix being the most recent examples.

Apple was valued at $6billion when the first iPod came out in 2001 but the firm has since hit the $1trillion mark

It is little wonder, therefore, that there is often a buzz around the tech sector from an investment standpoint.

With innovations like artificial intelligence and self-driving cars emerging from science fiction and becoming science fact, there is a sense that further growth opportunities lurk in the new frontier of technology.

There are a host of specialist funds designed to profit from growth in the tech sector - although not many.

The Investment Association's Technology and Telecommunications sector consists of only 16 funds, while the equivalent sector for investment trusts - which trade like shares - from the Association of Investment Companies, has just four.

The average tech focused fund and investment trust turned 1,000 into 2,248 and 3,074 respectively over the past five years according to data from investment research tool FE Analytics (accurate to 3 August 2018).

Why invest in a fund Cherry picking winning stocks in not an easy thing to do. The recent perils of Facebook, which saw about $120billion wiped off its value in a single day, is a good reminder that highly rated stocks arent immune to drastic price slides. Investing in funds means your money is spread across multiple assets. As some investments will perform better and some worse over time, diversifying will, in theory, help spread the risk and smooth returns over time.

Many of them are invested in FAANGs : one of the latest investment acronyms that groups the US tech kings: Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, and Alphabets Google.

These stocks returned 49 per cent on average in 2017 - outstripping the 19 per cent S&P 500 gained last year.

Others tech funds favour emerging challengers with the potential to knock the big guns off their perches in the future or invest in a mixture of both.

But which do investment experts rate?

We've asked a couple to list their top picks and take a closer look at how they invest.

The best tech funds

Polar Capital Technology Trust - ongoing charges: 0.99 per cent

Top five stocks: Alphabet, Microsoft, Apple, Facebook, Tencent

Polar Capital's performance (%) One year Three year Five year 25.73 116.99 191.20

The trust is a firm favourite among all our experts. It targets long-term capital growth by investing in a diversified portfolio of technology companies around the world - although the vast majority (over 70 per cent) of the portfolio is invested in North American stocks at present.

Tom Jemmett, fund analyst at Brewin Dolphin said: 'In terms of investment style, the trust has a growth bias and the manager intends to avoid last-generation winners and incumbents increasingly at the mercy of the disrupters.

'An investment in this trust will not only provide exposure to those companies that constitute the FAANG acronym, however will also take part in any success of those companies driving disruption further down the market capitalisation scale'.

Axa Framlington Global Technology - ongoing charges: 0.83 per cent

Top five stocks: Alphabet, Apple, Facebook, Visa, Cisco

The fund is unconstrained, meaning it can invest in as many companies as it wants, but almost 9 in every 10 in the fund is invested in North American companies.

Axa's performance (%) One year Three year Five year 34.65 113.70 192.01

It has exposure to mid-cap - those with a market capitalization between $2 billion and $10 billion- and smaller company names alongside the mega cap US tech stocks.

Ben Yearsley of Shore Financial Planning, said: 'Axa Framlington Global Technology is a good all rounder. The investment strategy focuses on company and its fundamentals rather than the industry the firm operates in but also applies a thematic overlay.'

Herald Investment Trust - ongoing charges: 1.08 per cent

Top five stocks: GB Group, Diploma PLC, Next Fifteen Communications Group, IQE PLC, Bango PLC

Herald's performance One year Three year Five year 22.32 77.99 125.86

Herald Investment Trust stands out from the other funds listed due to its focus on smaller quoted companies in the areas of communications and multi-media.

The trust has a global mandate, although over half of the portfolio (56 per cent) is invested in UK stocks.

Jemmett said: 'Herald continues to see the small cap arena in which the trust specialises as full of opportunity, owing in part to an increasingly wide investment universe, many of which are under-researched and some inefficiently priced.

'There is another source of potential upside, too: the chance of mergers and takeovers, the likelihood of which has increased recently as US technology companies, some holding substantial cash, look to expand and diversify.

Scottish Mortgage - ongoing charges: 0.37 per cent

Top five stocks: Amazon, Illumina Inc, Tencent Holdings, Alibaba, Tesla

Scottish Mortgage's performance One year Three year Five year 32.14 107.44 217.54

Yearsley said: 'Strictly speaking, Scottish Mortgage is not a specialist technology trust but it has had a long-term weighting in the area, currently 26 per cent.

'This is an unashamedly long-term high-growth play where the managers are happy to back their conviction.'

Holdings in the trust are chosen purely on their long term-merits and aims to achieve greater return that the FTSE All World Index (in pound sterling terms) over a five-year rolling period. It also pays a dividend.

iShares Automation & Robotics ETF- ongoing charges: 0.40 per cent

iShares's performance One year Three year Five year 19.29 N/A N/A

Top five stocks: Via Technologies, Asmedia Technology, Line Corp, PTC Inc, Elan Microelectronics Corp

The iShares Automation & Robotics ETF (short for exchange traded fund), which launched in 2016, is the only tracker on the list.

The benchmark index, called the iSTOXX FactSet Auto&Robotic, is composed of developed and emerging market companies which are generating significant revenues from specific sectors associated with the development of automatic and robotic technology.

Jason Hollands of financial firm Tilney said: 'Weve started to see a few new funds launched specifically focused on robotics, automation and artificial intelligence.

'A low cost way to access this theme is through the iShares Automation & Robotics ETF which has ongoing charges of 0.4 per cent and has exposure to 105 individual holdings - 31 per cent of which are in the US and 28 per cent in Japan.'

Risks

Hollands said investors should be wary about just how far valuations have moved in a short space of time.

Facebook's data scandal in which Cambridge Analytica allegedly took information on 87 million users without their consent

He added: 'There are some bubble-like characteristics developing in the US tech sector which is partially being exacerbated by record levels of share buybacks this year.'

Regulation is another potential stumbling block.

Technology is the least-regulated industry sector, according to Hartnett, with just 27,000 regulations versus 215,000 for manufacturing and 128,000 for the financial sector, according to Michael Hartnett, Bank of America Merrill Lynch's chief investment strategist.

He said in a recent report that pending US and EU regulations could shave 4 per cent off the tech industrys revenues.

The prospect for fresh government regulation on tech companies in the wake of Facebook's data scandal in which Cambridge Analytica allegedly took information on 87 million users without their consent.

Hartnett points to the falls suffered in the tobacco industry in 1992, the financial sector in 2010 after the financial crash and the biotech industry in 2015 to illustrate how regulation can lead to investment underperformance.

It is also important to bear in mind that anyone with a simple S&P 500 tracker fund - those that seek to replicate the performance of a given index - already have significant exposure to tech stocks. These companies account for over a quarter of the index.

Over exposure to one sector would significantly dent your portfolio at times of underperformance.

On a aside note, techs weighting in the index would almost half if you take the FAANG stocks out of the equations. It goes to show just how big these companies are.
FTSE 100 fund management giant Standard Life Aberdeen has seen 16.6 billion in net outflows of assets for the first half of the year, it revealed today.

Its assets under management stood at 610.1 billion, compared with 626.5 billion for the same point in 2017.

Pre-tax profit for the period was up 35 per cent year-on-year to 127 million.

Martin Gilbert (left) and Keith Skeoch, joint chief executives of Standard Life Aberdeen

In better news for investors, the firm also said it has brought forward plans to return 1.75 billion to shareholders, saying the first tranche of its share buyback programme would commence 'in the next few days'.

The fund manager, which was formed out of the 11 billion merger of Standard Life and Aberdeen Asset Management last year, first announced the share buyback plan in May, after it agreed the sale of its European insurance business to Phoenix Group.

Standard Life Aberdeen said the first 175 million tranche of its share buyback programme will be enacted shortly, and that the sale to Phoenix will be completed in the third quarter of the year.

Shares in Standard Life Aberdeen rose 3.56 per cent to 317.5p following the update.

The company pointed the finger at political uncertainty and a tough marketplace as it sought to explain the big fall in assets under its watch.

Joint chief executives Martin Gilbert and Keith Skeoch said conditions for the asset management industry are 'challenging'.

'Our investment and distribution teams are winning new mandates and we have a good and diverse pipeline of business from around the world. We are actively taking steps to improve our investment performance in key areas and are encouraged by the impact of these initiatives,' they added.

John Moore, senior investment manager at Brewin Dolphin commented: 'These results from Standard Life Aberdeen demonstrate that it is a business in transition. It has gone through a great deal of change in the past year with the sale of its insurance arm to Phoenix, the IPO of HDFC Life and HDFC Asset Management in India, not to mention the ongoing integration of last year's merger with Aberdeen.

'The business is carrying the cost of that process, with net flows in negative territory for some time now and its share price under pressure.

'Overall, it's another mixed bag for Standard Life Aberdeen, but the share price discounts much of the bad news and could recover as we move closer to the proceeds of the Phoenix deal being returned to shareholders.'
MBABANE  Fresh from celebrating the first ever Eswatini Pride, the local LGBTI community is set to have a dialogue with religious leaders.



Dubbed the Rock of Hope Religious Dialogue 2018, the event is scheduled for today at The George Hotel in Manzini, starting at 9am.

Rock of Hope is a community-based organisation supporting the needs and advocating for the rights of lesbians, gays, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people in the Kingdom of Eswatini.



The organisation made history on June 30 this year when it hosted the first ever Gay Pride at the Prince of Wales where over 300 people, including diplomats, showed up.



The event was spiced up with a march whose aim was to confront and attempt to break socially entrenched homophobic stereotypes.

The proposed dialogue is already being promoted by the organisation through a notice posted on its social media pages, Facebook and Twitter, where it encouraged the public to follow up on the conversations that would be going on.



In the notice, the organisation quoted a Bible verse, John 3:16 which reads, For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son so that whosever believes in Him can have eternal life.

Rock of Hope Communications Manager Melusi Simelane confirmed the dialogue and highlighted that the organisation had always been in touch with religious leaders.



He stated that attending the event was by invite only but that members of the public were allowed to pose questions on their social media pages and engage in discussions.



We started engaging religious leaders a long time ago and this is because we are also human, which means we do need to discuss both social and spiritual issues. This is where we will discuss the connection of the LGBTI community with religion, he said.
MBABANE  Its a rigmarole! This is the best phrase to describe what is happening in the matter of murder suspect Sipho Shongwe.



Despite that there was a warrant of production; officers from His Majestys Correctional Services did not bring Shongwe to court yesterday.

A production warrant can be issued to require attendance of a prisoner.



Shongwes lawyer Lucky Howe yesterday informed Judge Sipho Nkosi that the production warrant was served to officers at the Matsapha Correctional Facility by Deputy Sheriff Wiseman Dlamini on Sunday.

The officers, according to Howe, accepted the order but declined to sign as confirmation that they received it. He alleged that they also stated that the order was not directed to them.



Registrar



He alleged that the court order directing Shongwes production was signed on Sunday and attempts to serve it to the Registrar of the High Court yesterday proved to be an impossible mission as she was reported to be out of office.

Our understanding is that Shongwe should be here as there is a court order to that effect, argued Howe.



The lawyer asked that the registrar be called to explain to the court why she was failing to bring the accused to court as there was a court order.

Judge Nkosi had scheduled to give his reasons for making the finding that the Crown failed to prove that Shongwe, who has been charged with the murder of Victor Gamedze, was fraudulently released from Barberton Maximum Prison.

The judge said he had written the findings and was ready to deliver them.

He said he had been pressurised to issue the findings, which were demanded by the Crown for the purpose of pursuing an appeal of the ruling, but could not do so in Shongwes absence. Shongwes legal representative, Howe, said that was a mystery and explained that there was difficulty regarding the production of Shongwe to court during his matters.



Ill

Last Friday, Judge Nkosi said he was informed by the registrar of the court that she had been in touch with Shongwes attorneys and was told the accused would not be present in court. The judge stated that he enquired if Shongwe was ill but got no response.

Judge Nkosi said he passed a message through the registrar for the attorneys to ensure that Shongwe was present for the matter yesterday. Howe told the court that he received the message and the suspects other attorney, Sipho Mnisi, made a request for the production warrant to be issued.



Howe alleged that the registrar confirmed receiving the request but informed them that it would be difficult to have Shongwe produced in court.

According to Howe, the registrar allegedly said there had been an instruction from Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala to the effect that it would not be necessary to have Shongwe brought to court and that no courtroom would be allocated for the matter.



Judge Nkosi asked for confirmation if the alleged instruction came from the chief justice and Howe said that was what they had been informed.
MANZINI  While calls are being made for the legalisation of dagga for medicinal and pharmaceutical use, police officers raided and destroyed plants of the illegal herb in a farm around Mafutseni.



The premises seemed to have all the necessary farming equipment as irrigation pipes, water tanks and other things were found at the farm.

Also uncovered by the Royal Eswatini Police Service yesterday was a borehole near the place where the dagga was planted.

The dagga destroyed is estimated to be around E200 000, though police are yet to determine the actual value.



What took the officers aback was the various amenities found at the farm, which suggested that this was a proper enterprise.

After receiving a tip-off about the dagga field, the Mafutseni police led by the newly-appointed Desk Officer, Mduduzi Mavuso, headed to the farm and raided the place, which is about one hectare.



The officers destroyed all the dagga plants, pipes and seedlings which were found on the farm.

The place had an irrigation system, with pumps and hosepipes. There were also fertiliser bags and seedlings nearby, which proved that the place also had employees who watered and took care of the dagga plants before being harvested and further sold to potential buyers.



Officers were heard conversing that it was a good idea to destroy these plants before they could be harvested and enter the illicit drug market that has become a huge business for many emaswati.

Just before reaching the fields, which are hidden in thick forests, there was a borehole, solar energy system and three water tanks, and water pipes installed, leading to the fields nearby.



The team of officers walked for some time before stumbling upon the thousands of recently planted dagga plants.

All the dagga plants together with some of the pipes were destroyed by the police officers. The pipes were cut into pieces with bush knives by the armed officers, and also burnt together with the piles of dagga plants.



Officers revealed that there were no arrests made yet.

They also stated that they had no idea who owned the farm or land and for how long they had their eyes on the operation or project.

Police officers said they were yet to ascertain who owned the farm and if he/she was involved in the dagga project.



It is clear that the project was properly planned and executed before the dagga was grown at the place. This is evident with the pipes, irrigation system, water tanks and the solar power system. There are so many pipes leading to the fields and some of them are hidden underground, one of the police officers said yesterday.



Worth noting is that before getting to where the dagga is grown, there are about four gates, with signs, written Please Close Gates Cattle Around.

In May this year, the Mliba police, comprising the Station Commander Assistant Superintendent Samkeliso Msweli, his deputy Inspector Khanyakwezwe Mhlanga and other officers, conducted a massive dagga raid operation which had been targeted within the Nyonyane and Maguga areas.



A truckload of dagga was seized and six people were arrested after being found in possession of 12 bags of dagga, which are currently kept at the Mafutseni police station as exhibits for the case.



Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Khulani Mamba confirmed that the police destroyed dagga which was being grown in a farm situated in Mafutseni.



However, he confirmed that no arrests had been made as yet.

The police are still investigating the matter and looking for the suspects behind the offences, Superintendent Mamba said.

The Kingdom of Eswatini is known for having what has been labelled at A Grade dagga, which is in high demand.

Calls for the legalisation of dagga in the kingdom for pharmaceutical uses, have not been successful as yet, though many African countries had legalised the restricted use of the herb.
Hellenic organizations abroad sent aid and those who raised awareness of needs with governments and local governments and agencies

Deputy Foreign Minister for Overseas Greeks Terens Quick thanked Greeks abroad for their financial help for surviving victims of the wildfires in Attica, during an interview to 24/7 FM radio on Monday, ANA reports.

He thanked all Hellenic organizations abroad who sent aid and those who raised awareness of needs with governments and local governments and agencies, beyond the help already offered spontaneously by foreign states.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Michael W. Pendergrass License: CC-BY-SA
ATHENS  The Onassis Foundation continues to support innovation and research, science and society, art and culture through 145 new scholarships for 2018. In 40 years from 1978-2018, the Onassis Foundation has awarded 7,200 scholarships and the journey continues, the Foundation stated in a news release on August 2. The release continued:

Kyriaki Karagianni, having graduated with honors from the Department of Education of the Democritus University of Thrace and having completed her Masters, is embarking on a PhD researching the socio-psychological processes of Bullying among Adolescent Schoolchildren.

Children are also at the epicenter of the research which Athanasia Kotsiou is conducting at the University of Cambridge concerning the Impact of Social Media Use on the Cognitive Functions and Academic Performance of Primary School Children.

Sofia Konstantinidou has dedicated herself to Clinical Oncology and her research will set out in search of new treatment regimens for lung cancer.

Giorgos Psarellis, one of the top Chemical Engineering graduates of the National Technical University of Athens, will attempt to investigate the secrets of human health. Combining experimental data with machine learning models and data mining algorithms, his research will help proposing prevention strategies and personalized medicine treatments.

Equipped with knowledge and armed with dedication, Kyriaki, Athanasia, Sofia and Giorgos can succeed in their goals. They can bring their research to fruition, achieve their aims and continue their impressive careers. The same applies to all the Onassis Foundation scholars for 2018 who stand out for their excellence but also for their maturity and the decisiveness with which they have elected to develop their knowledge and their talent. The Onassis Foundation will be at their side, as it has been for all 7,200 recipients of its scholarships since1978. It will be there to empower their efforts, to give impetus to their vision, and to release their potential both for their benefit and for the benefit of society.

As it has done every year for four decades now, the Onassis Foundation continues to provide solid support for Education through its Scholarship Programs. It is therefore with pride and with joy that we announce the results of our scholarship selection process for 2018. Applicants can visit our website www.onassis.org to view the results of their own applications.

The 145 new scholarships were allocated as follows:

135 scholarships to Greeks for studies in Greece and countries worldwide.

10 scholarships to foreign academics and researchers in disciplines related to Greek culture, economy and society  from prehistory/antiquity to contemporary Greece.

The Onassis Foundation wishes all our successful applicants a bright and successful career.

More information is available online: onassis.org.

Read more at thenationalherald.com

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
One of the most popular destinations on the island of Patmos, is located near the cave where Saint John wrote the Apocalypse. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a Greek Orthodox monastery founded in 1088 in Chora, Patmos

Greece has many beautiful sights for travelers to check out while they are visiting the country. One thing they must surely add to their itinerary is visiting some of the ancient and historical Greek monasteries. Here are the 10 must-see monasteries, as presented and described by greekreporter.com:

1.Evangelistria Monastery, Skiathos

This historical structure, on the Greek island of Skiathos was first founded in 1794 by a group of monks from Mount Athos and played a crucial role in the 1821 revolution which brought independence to Greece. Also, the first-ever Hellenic flag was made on a loom at this very location.

2. The Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, Nisyros island

A monastery built in a cave is what you will find when you visit the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani. It sits at the top of a hill in northwest Mandraki, while the largest portion of the monastery is built inside a cave. A truly unique experience, the cave is divided into two churches and is definitely worth a visit.

3. The Holy Monastery of Great Meteoron in Thessaly

Meteora is the second largest monastic and pilgrimage site in Greece after Mount Athos. The high cliffs are the perfect place for the monks to take refuge from the invading Turkish army around the 11th century. Here you will find several breathtaking monasteries that still remain some 400 metres above the ground, including the most impressive monastery, perhaps in the world, the Holy Monastery of Transfiguration of Jesus, or better known as Great Meteoron!

4. The Monastery of Agia Triada, Hydra island

Located on Hydra in the hills above Mandraki, the Monastery of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity), is a trekking destination for many who visit the island. The monastery dates back to 1704 when it was founded by the priest Antonios Oikonomou.

5. The Monastery of Agia Triada, Aegina

Many people visit the island of Aegina in the Saronic Gulf near Athens to see the church of Agios Nektarios and the monastery of Agia Triadawhich is perched above the church. The church is still under construction but progress is constantly being made and you can still visit and see the inside of the grand dome. Walk a short uphill trail to the Monastery of Agia Triada where you can say a prayer in the chapels and buy religious souvenirs as a keepsake.

6. The Monastery of Mega Spileo, Kalavryta in Peloponnese

Another impressive monastery, Mega Spileo stands eight stories and is actually built on slopes of a rocky hill at a cave opening where it almost appears to become one with the surrounding landscape. Considered to be the oldest monastery in Greece dating back to 362 AD, it has survived four fires and played an important role during the Greek War of Independence in 1821 against the Ottomans. The monastery is also home to countless Byzantine icons, frescoes, copper plates, manuscripts and other unique treasures, such as its library featuring more than 3,000 books and old scripts.

7. Monastery of Hosios Loukas, Distomo, Voeotia near Athens

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most significant monuments of Middle Byzantine architecture and art. Dating back to the early 10th century, it is built on the slopes of Mount Helicon and founded by the hermit, Venerable (Greek: Hosios) St. Luke (Greek: Lukas), whose relics are kept in the monastery to this day.

8. The Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, Patmos

One of the most popular destinations on the island of Patmos, is located near the cave where Saint John wrote the Apocalypse. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a Greek Orthodox monastery founded in 1088 in Chora, Patmos. The monastery dates back to 1088 when it was founded by soldier-priest John Christodoulos, who heavily fortified the exterior of the structure to protect it from threats of piracy and Seljuk Turks.

9. The Arkadi Monastery, Crete island

This monastery is located in Rethymo, Crete and has played many important roles on the island over the last eight centuries since it was founded. The monastery has been the center point for everything from producing needlework embroidered with gold during the 17th and 18th centuries to participating in the Greek War of Independence in 1821.

10. Mount Athos Monasteries in Chalkidiki peninsula

This World Heritage Site and autonomous polity in the Hellenic Republic, is one of the oldest monasteries in the planet. Greeks refer to it as the Holy Mountain. Women are prohibited from entry. The monastery was first founded in 963, by monk Athanasios. There are 20 monasteries in total on Mount Athos. Thousands of monks reside at the monasteries today.

Read more at greekreporter.com

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons Copyright: Michael W. Pendergrass License: CC-BY-SA
Abu Dhabi City Municipality has signed agreements with property developers to construct a community market in Mohammed bin Zayed City and a service station for residential districts at Al Shawamekh city.



Saif Badr Al Qubaisi, general manager of Abu Dhabi City Municipality, signed the agreements with Naji Hasan Al Harthi of Tristar Engineering and Construction Company for the construction of the community market project and with Salim Mohammed Mubarak Al Mansouri of Florida Property Development Company for the service station.



"These two projects are part of a full package of integrated projects and service facilities the municipality is intending to undertake in implementation of the vision of Abu Dhabi Government for bolstering the cooperation with the private sector. The projects will also step up the development drive and add to the new projects needed for delivering modern services to the community at world-class standards, said Al Qubaisi.



"The partnership relationships with the private sector will contribute to the improvement of the attractive investment climate and the growth rates envisioned by Abu Dhabi Government.



"The Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities  Abu Dhabi City Municipality is keen on cementing the relationships with the private sector, attract investments, improve services and introduce modern service facilities. The municipality will continue with its partners in the private sector the construction of investment, recreational and service project that bringing happiness to people such as Al Maqta Canal, highway rest areas, and service stations among other services improving the quality of life," added Al Qubaisi.



The contract provides for the construction and operation of a community market in collaboration with the private sector. The market comprises retail outlets, community facilities, government service counters for residential districts; bringing together community facilities, retail outlets and customer service elements. The agreement calls for Musataha (property rights) and operation for 30 years after two years for construction. The operation of the market is set to start in the final quarter of 2020.



The community market will be constructed at Sector Z 23, Mohammed bin Zayed City and span an area of 23,316 sq m. The floor area will be 13,989 sq m and the construction cost is estimated at Dh36 million ($9.8 million).



The service station to be constructed at Al Shawamekh city is part of the service stations at residential areas that cover the mainland. The project will be developed and operated with the private sector and offer a diverse cast of maintenance services that cover carpentry, repair services for household appliances, plumbing, electricity and air-conditioning services, tyre and auto parts trading, car repair and washing services, and many other services.



The contract for the construction of the service station is based on the principle of Musataha for 30 years, after three years of construction. The station is expected to start operation in the third quarter of 2021.



The area of the land on which the station will be built is 5,585 sq m in Sector SHM9 in Shawamekh. The floor area of the project is 4,888 sq m, and the construction cost of the station Dh15.3 million.  TradeArabia News Service
A major seminar on palliative care in Oman will take place next week at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, participated by senior healthcare officials and experts.

The seminar, on August 14, will be opened by Health Minister Dr Ahmed Mohammed Al-Saidi, and the keynote speaker will be Professor Richard Harding from the Centre for Global Health Palliative Care, Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College, London.

Palliative care improves the quality of life for patients (adults and children) and their families who are facing the challenges associated with life-threatening illness. It prevents and relieves suffering, through correct assessment of pain and other problems and enables patients and families to maintain the best quality of life, whatever the diagnosis, by providing expert practical care along with emotional support.

In Oman, palliative care is still in its infancy and consequently, many acute hospital beds are blocked by patents who would benefit from this specialised form of care with its many advantages. Unblocking expensive acute beds in hospitals in the Sultanate would enable them to work more efficiently and be more cost effective whilst at the same time improving the quality of life for palliative care patients.

The Oman Cancer Association has recently funded the training of 180 nurses for palliative care in the community which enables patients to be cared for in their own homes and more training is planned. The Oncology Department at the Royal Hospital is spearheading this community care approach.

A Comprehensive Cancer Care Centre is being built at Sultan Qaboos University funded by Royal Court Affairs and this project will also incorporate palliative care. There are also some private sector initiatives in rehabilitation moving towards palliative care, particularly for the stroke and accident victims.

Private Public Partnership (PPP) will be the likely model for the establishment of other palliative care facilities. In 2020, Oman will host the International World Oncology Conference at the new Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre. With all these initiatives, the time is right to introduce palliative care throughout Oman, said the statement.

Palliative care is most often associated with terminal cancer but there are many other chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and diabetes where palliative care is needed. In children, there are congenital abnormalities and genetic conditions. Palliative care also has a role to play in the care of the elderly and particularly patients in with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. As the ageing population of Oman grows, there will be an increasing demand for special health care services for senior citizens, it said.

There are many aspects to palliative care, including changes in legislation to allow people to be treated in their own homes. There is also the work of raising awareness within the community which is one of the goals of this seminar, it said.  TradeArabia News Service
The Social Media Summit is finalising preparations to host the third edition of the largest social media gathering on August 15 at the Century Park Hotel in Amman, Jordan.



The event, to be held under the theme Social Media and Its Pivotal Impact on the Tourism Sector, is being organised by Hits Marketing  a leading regional marketing and event management company based in Dubai  in cooperation with the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) and Jordan Hotel Association, with the participation of a host of local media partners and sponsors.



Social Media Summit executive director, Ehab Heissat, explained that social media networks play a significant role in attracting local, Arab and international tourists to Jordan. Accordingly, the summits third edition will include several exciting sessions featuring Jordanian, Arab and international experts and speakers.



On its sidelines, the summit will organise a workshop on the optimal use of social media networks to promote tourism and market tourist attractions. The workshop will be led by a group of experts specialised in e-marketing, social marketing, and content creation. Around 200 workers from the local tourism and hospitality sector are expected to attend the workshop, which will be held for the first time in Jordan.



In addition to the partaking of JTB general manager, Dr Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat, as a keynote speaker, Heissat confirmed the participation of numerous international speakers and experts from some of the leading companies in the fields of social media networking, digital media, and consultancy.



Moreover, Heba Abdulwahab, Moments Lead at Twitter, will speak at the summit and accompanying workshop, in addition to Olga Egorsheva, founder and CEO of Lobster  one of the largest licensing companies for user-generated content. Sarah Begum, TV presenter and social media activist, will also be in attendance to discuss storytelling through social media. Other speakers include Andrea Frahm, founder of German-based agency Frahm & Partners Communication, and Courtney Brandt, a social media activist behind the blog A to Za'atar that assesses restaurants and hotels in various tourist destinations.



Participants will be able to listen to and debate a host of local and regional speakers and trainers, including Ameed Awad - International Digital Marketing and Social Media trainer; Amir Ounallah - founder and CEO of Batuta.com, a leading Arabic online travel agency; Gaith Adaileh - co-founder of Khaberni.com; and Amjad Sawalha from Siyaha.org.



The Social Media Summit is the first and largest social media conference in the Middle East. In 2018, a series of conferences are scheduled to be held in Dubai, Sharjah, Riyadh, Muscat, and Oman. - TradeArabia News Service


Bahrain Duty Free Shop Complex (DUTYF) has registered a net profit of $12.3 million for the first half of the year mainly driven by the solid growth in sales.



Impressed with the results, the company's board of directors has recommended distribution of 20 per cent dividend of the share capital share capital, equivalent to 5.3 US Cent per share, to the shareholders registered as of August 14.



Announcing the results at a board meeting today (August 7), Chairman Farouk Yousuf Almoayyed said the company had achieved a net profit of $4.98 million during the second quarter, up 33 per cent compared to $3.74 million last year.



The company also achieved an operating profit of $3.91 million in the second quarter compared to $3.48 million in the same period of last year, thus registering a 12.4 per cent growth.



With regards to revenue/sales, the company has posted a 16 per cent growth in the second quarter taking its total sales to $23.4 million during the second quarter, compared to $20.2 million in the second quarter of last year, with an increase of 15.9 per cent, said the statement from DUTYF.



Earnings per share during the second quarter were 3.5 Cent compared to 2.6 Cent in the same quarter last year.



The increase in the net profit relates to an increase in revenues of $3,208,218, generating a gross profit of $1,607,459. In addition, the investment income increased by $808,546 during the quarter.



With regards to the half year financial results, the company achieved a net profit of $12.3 million compared to $9.6 million in the previous year, representing an increase of 28.3 per cent. The company also posted an operating profit of $7,860,218 for the first six months compared to $6,998,926 last year, thus registering an increase of 12.3 per cent.



Abdulla Buhindi said profit from investments recorded an amount of $4,440,162 compared to $2,589,647 last year, representing a growth of 71.4 per cent.



With regards to revenue/sales, the company saw the total figures surge 15.6 per cent to $46,233,151 from last year's $39,999,135, he stated.



"The increase in the net profit for the half year end in comparison to last year relates to good volume growth in sales with an increase of $6,234,016 increasing gross profits by $3,034,170 . Earnings per shares were 8.6 US Cent compared to 6.7 US Cent in the previous year," noted Buhindi.



"We have focused our efforts on increasingly supporting sales processes that have contributed to an increase in the average Transaction value, including upgrading our customer service efficiency," he added.



According to him, the total shareholders equity for the year rose 2.3 per cent to $135,547,379 compared to $132,497,419 last year.



Almoayyed said DUTYF had succeeded in achieving outstanding financial results mainly due to the hard work and continuous efforts of the executive management and all the employees of the company.

The total assets for the six-month period surged by 2.6 per cent to $154.4 million from $150.5 million last year, he stated.



"I am confident that the executive management will continue to achieve further growth during the remainder of the year 2018," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Clearpool Signs Its First License Agreement With Europe's Atlantic Equities

Clearpool Group, a provider of holistic electronic trading solutions designed to bring greater transparency to broker routing and independent agency broker-dealer execution services, is announcing its first license agreement with a Europe-based broker, Atlantic Equities LLP. As part of an algorithmic trading partnership, Clearpool is licensing its Algorithmic Management System (AMS) infrastructure to Atlantic Equities for its European institutional clients trading U.S. equities.

We are pleased that Atlantic Equities is deepening our relationship with a license agreement. Atlantic has found significant value in Clearpools platform, which addresses the immediate need for technology that can help brokers and their buy side clients focus on best execution in accordance with MiFID II, Brian Schaeffer, President of Clearpool, commented. As we expand our international footprint into Canada and strengthen our European relationships, we are committed to providing Atlantic Equites with the technology and the domain expertise to continue to build out a differentiated electronic trading solution.

Clearpools cloud-based AMS is transforming electronic trading with a fully customizable suite of algorithmic trading tools that offers total visibility and control from strategy to execution. Clearpools partners gain tools and insights to effectively collaborate with their clients to customize and optimize algorithmic trading strategies and manage the technology at scale.

We are excited to work with Clearpool as the first Europe-based broker to offer access to its AMS platform. It has been a long-standing priority of ours to offer clients independent and unconflicted access to U.S. markets and this unique routing logic allows us to provide that. It also underlines our ability to deliver ever more transparent best execution to our clients, said Rupert Della-Porta, COO of Atlantic Equities. As we continue to adopt the AMSs analytics capabilities, we are confident that the license agreement will continue to empower us to demonstrate trading performance for our clients and strengthen our relationships with them.

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Fixed Income Investor Network Launches Structured Finance Industry Group

IMN, a global content platform focused on institutional finance and the host of ABS East industry conference, recently announced the launch of the Fixed Income Investor Network (FIIN), a members-only industry network for institutional investors in the structured finance and specialized credit marketplace.

FIIN will provide investors with an independent and unbiased forum for investor education, discussion and advocacy. The network will also provide an opportunity for investors to share ideas and innovations for improving the fixed income industry, as well as advise on the editorial direction for structured finance-related conferences, media content and other public campaigns. FIIN board members will set the agenda for all network activities.

Its time for buy-side investors to come together and chart the future direction of the fixed income industry, said Alessandro Pagani, the inaugural chairman of FIIN and Portfolio Manager/Co-Head of Mortgage and Structured Finance at Loomis, Sayles & Co. We believe FIIN will be an effective vehicle for that conversation, bringing together diverse voices and opinions, and providing a transparent forum to help solve shared problems and challenges.

The founding board members for FIIN will include representatives from some of the largest institutional asset allocators to asset-backed securities, including: Charles Schwab, Eaton Vance, Grantham Mayo, Loomis, Sayles & Co., Napier Park Global Capital and PGIM Investments. Additional members will come from other asset managers across a range of firm sizes, geographic focuses and fund strategies.

IMN is a leader in investor education through its events and content offerings, and we are committed to continuing to fulfill that role through the establishment of FIIN, said Jim Muller, Executive Director of FIIN. We believe there is a critical need for an intrinsically non-conflicted organization that is investor-driven and investor-focused. FIIN will provide a public platform for fixed income investors, adding an important voice and more balance in the debate about the future of fixed income markets.

FIIN will meet four times per year, with the inaugural meeting to be hosted at IMNs 24th Annual ABS East Conference, which is scheduled for September 23-25, 2018 in Miami.

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ON THE MOVE: Activity at BAML, Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs

There has been some activity at the bulge bracket firms during the last week starting with Bank of America Merrill Lynch. Traders Magazine has learned that David Kim will now lead equity macro index trading and Ajay Khanna will now serve as global head of equity trading strategies. BAML also appointed Jacob Kaippallimalil head of global central risk book.

Meanwhile at Morgan Stanley, top electronic equity pro Brian Gallagher has left the firm after 15 years, according to people familiar with the matter. Gallagher was a managing director of sales in the firms s equities electronic trading business since 2003. He was formerly headed European electronic trading at the bank too.

On the flip side, the bank landed Andrew Peel, a cryptocurrency and Bitcoin specialist from rival Credit Suisse as its new Head of Digital Assets Markets. Peel spent the last 12 years at Credit Suisse spending nine of them on the Delta One trading desk and as a derivatives trader. He will be based in London and Zurich.

If you have a new job or promotion to report, let me know at jdantona@marketsmedia.com

Goldman Sachs saw one of its own leave the bank. Ralston Roberts, a managing director and Goldmans co-head of execution services and electronic trading in Europe, will move to the US to join Instinet as its chief operating officer, according to people familiar with the matter.

Euronext announced the appointment of Chris Topple as CEO of Euronext London, Head of Global Sales and a member of the Managing Board of Euronext N.V., subject to all relevant shareholder and regulatory approval. Topple, who worked extensively in brokerage and clearing services throughout his career, will oversee sales across all asset classes. He will take up his new role based in London on October 15. Paul Humphrey, current interim CEO of Euronext London and Head of Global Sales, will remain in his current role as Global Head of FICC. Topple has been co-head of Societe Generale Prime Services and led the Prime Brokerage and Clearing Services (PCS) sales teams globally within Societe Generales Newedge Group. He has also worked at Lehman Brothers, Nomura and JP Morgan.

AlphaPoint, a blockchain company focused on enabling institutions to launch, scale, and operate digital asset networks and exchanges all over the world, hired Kristin Boggiano as its Chief Legal Officer. In this role, Boggiano will oversee the companys legal, regulatory, and government relations functions as well as contribute as a member of AlphaPoints executive team. She brings more than two decades of experience in the financial industry to AlphaPoint. Most recently, Boggiano served as a Managing Director and Senior Regulatory Counsel at Guggenheim, where she advised on asset management, broker-dealer and insurance issues. Earlier in her career, Boggiano worked at Merrill Lynch on the derivatives desk, beginning her career with stints at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

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New Survey Says 90+% of Firms Will Use Cloud for Market Data in Less than Four Years

Financial firms intend to rapidly increase their investment in public cloud to exploit the benefits of the cloud in managing the financial data that powers their business decisions, according to a new global survey of senior technologists and market data managers in the financial services sector. In the survey from the Financial & Risk business of Thomson Reuters, respondents said their firms would be increasing investment in public cloud by over a half, from 30% of IT budgets in 2017 to 47% in 2019.

Over 90% of firms surveyed say they will use public cloud for the majority of their market data needs in less than four years. A quarter (24%) expect to use public cloud for the majority of their market data needs within just one year. Financial firms are fuelled by data, whether to discover profitable new insights or to help them automate their reporting processes and manage costs at a time of intense regulatory pressure.

The cloud offers a powerful set of tools for the financial community to manage their data needs, and opens up new opportunities to combine public and proprietary data at massive scale with tools like AI and machine learning to solve any number of problems, says Brennan Carley, Global Head of Enterprise Proposition & Product for the Financial & Risk business at Thomson Reuters. Financial firms of all sizes can be more agile and innovative using the cloud, as they test investment strategies and enter new markets more quickly.

Given the sensitive nature of many of their data requirements and the regulatory pressures they face, financial firms have been quite cautious about exploiting public cloud compared to other industries, but these findings show that financial firms are accelerating the cloud plans. The adoption curve may differ depending on whether its a small hedge fund or a large bank and whether they are using the data to make trading decisions in real-time or back-testing research hypotheses, but the end point is clear. Financial firms say they are starting to leverage the cloud across their market data infrastructure to help them move faster, grow their business, reduce their costs, and better manage their risks.

Thomson Reuters Financial & Risk recently announced plans to deliver all its financial data and tools in the cloud.

Methodology

The survey consisted of telephone interviews with 250 senior figures across buy- and sell-side financial institutions, in the roles of Chief Technology Officers, Chief Information Officers, Chief Data Officers and Heads of Market Data. It was a global survey, with respondents split equally between North America, Europe and APAC.

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Motorcycle tours and rentals in South America



(TRAVPR.COM) COLOMBIA - August 6th, 2018 - PhotoMotoColombia.com, Colombias leading supplier of motorcycle tours and rentals in South America, is happy to announce their grand opening in Medellin, Colombia.

With PhotoMotoColombia, you will see and experience the beauty and the richness of Colombia like never before. Guided by international photographer, world traveler, and motorcycle enthusiast Jeff Cremer, PhotoMotoColombia is unlike any other motorcycle touring company in Colombia.

Trips are led by professional travel and wildlife photographer Jeff Cremer. Jeff worked as a photographer in the Peruvian Amazon for six years and has had his work featured in National Geographic, Discovery Channel, Wired Magazine and the BBC. Tour the most beautiful and picture-worthy locations in the country to get an experience and the pictures of a lifetime. You will not only tour Colombia from your bike, you will focus on truly seeing, photographing and experiencing it in all of its dimensions...its beauty, its culture and its people.

We believe that riding a motorcycle is the best way to experience a foreign country. Feeling the air around you while twisting through some of the most amazing and beautiful landscapes in the world is an experience that is impossible to forget.

High powered motorcycles are expensive, heavy and hard to maneuver while local rental companies offer smaller motorcycles that are slow, uncomfortable and prone to breakdown.

We fall in the middle offering high quality, medium sized motorcycles that are affordable and easy to drive while also being powerful and comfortable for long trips deep into the heart of Colombia. We also provide high quality helmets and riding gear that will keep you safe and dry through all the climates that Colombia has to offer.

All trips start in Medellin, Colombia, also know as the City of Eternal Spring pleasant warm weather all year round. The city is surrounded by mountains and it is very clean with lush trees and beautiful flowers.

Colombia motorcycle trips range from day trips to Guatape, to take in the sweeping views from the top of the famous El Penol rock to week long trips to the Colombias Coffee Triangle where riders can journey into the spectacular Valle de Cocora to find eight species of hummingbirds as well as the famous wax palms  Colombias national tree  which regularly grow up to a height of 150 feet, or sometimes up to 200 feet.

Other tours such as the 12 day Ultimate Coffee Region motorcycle tour is perfect for riders looking for an expedition through the adventurous Andean mountain range. This route starts in Medellin and takes riders through on a full loop through Colombias staggering peaks, rugged ridgelines, and diverse elevations bringing riders full circle arriving in Medellin again at the end of the trip.

All motorcycle tours unlimited mileage on lightweight dual sport motorcycles, Motorcycle liability reduction insurance, personal medical insurance, transfers to / from airport in Medellin as well as entrances to tourist attractions.

If youre ready to wake up in the morning with a new adventure each day, get off the beaten path, and forge unforgettable stories in the hidden paradise called Colombia, youve come to the right place. Remember: the only risk is wanting to stay.

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If any of these events /Cruises is of your interest, please let us know, we will be very glad to send you a detailed information.



(TRAVPR.COM) VIETNAM - August 7th, 2018 - Cruising is an attractive option to experience corners of exotic Southest Asia landscapes, mysterious World Heritages and colonial history - a leisurely relaxing on the tranquil waters of some most stunning rivers. With a choice stylist chic cruises, discover incredible sights with a captivating journey.

The intimate cruises experience take deeply to the water on a relaxed voyage to explore far flung destinations from the river. Experience the sights and sounds of Burmas Ayeyarwady River or the World Heritage Site of Vietnams Halong Bay on a elegance wooden yacht. Sail between Vietnam and Cambodia in a colonial style vessel. A taste of each is enough to whet the appetite for lifetime moments.

Ciao Travel offer amazing journeys for 2018 and 2019, either Cruises or experience land destinations around magical Southest Asia!

 Luxury Highlights of Vietnam & Cambodia



17day tour. Including 7nights cruise from Cambodia to Saigon, Vietnam & 2nights cruise in Halong Bay

Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sieam Reap, Phnom Penh, Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City

 Luxury Treasure of Mekong River

14days tour. Including 3nights cruise from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh

Sieam Reap, Phnom Penh, Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City

 Luxury Burma River cruise

Optional from 3nights to 11nights cruise

Yangon, Bagan, Pakkoku, Yanderbo, Ava, Mandalay

 Boutique Family Halong Bay cruise

Optional from 1night to 3nights cruise

Hanoi, Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay

We will be very glad to send you a detailed information if you interest and email us at: info@ciaotravels.com

Or meet us at WTM London 2018 for partner discussion by set appointment through above mail.

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Batola and Hussen Mohammed and their children prepare to depart Yemen's Port of Aden for Somalia, through the support of a UNHCR and International Organization for Migration assisted spontaneous return programme for Somali refugees in Yemen.  UNHCR/Shabia Mantoo

Yesterday (Monday, 6 August), a boat carrying 116 Somali refugees arrived in the port of Berbera in Somalia after sailing from Aden in Yemen on Sunday. This is the latest assisted spontaneous return facilitated by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in cooperation with IOM and the authorities in Yemen and Somalia. With this group, the number of refugees to have returned to Somalia since the programme started in 2017 has surpassed 2,000. So far this year 1,321 Somalis (including the 116 who left on Sunday) have returned to their places of origin in Somalia.

For the past two months, weather conditions had prevented the boat from sailing. Among the refugees were female heads of households looking forward to joining their extended families, several students who are hoping to resume their educations, and a critically ill patient who travelled with his son, family members and a medic.

The Assisted Spontaneous Returns (ASR) programme was initiated in 2017 in response to demand from refugees for UNHCR help in returning home. Yemen currently hosts over 270,000 refugees, the vast majority of whom (256,363) are Somali. Some 45 per cent are hosted in the south of the country, in Kharaz refugee camp  Yemens only refugee camp  and in the Basateen urban settlement in Aden. Others are in various locations in the north of the country.

The ongoing conflict in Yemen has affected not just Yemenis but also refugees living among them. UNHCR and partners face significant challenges in ensuring safe living environments, adequate protection, humanitarian assistance and access to essential, life-saving services. Refugees are vulnerable to early marriage, child labour, detention and to the risks of dangerous onward movement. These circumstances have added to the urgent need for UNHCR to increase humanitarian support, mitigate risks and find lasting solutions for these people.

UNHCR has carried out information campaigns to ensure refugees are able to make voluntary and properly informed decisions about returns, especially given the current context in Yemen. Many of those choosing to return home cite difficulties in subsisting and earning a livelihood. Others, especially those who have completed intermediate or secondary school hope to pursue higher education back in Somalia. Under current conditions, such opportunities in Yemen are minimal.

The journey from the port of Aden to Berbera takes some 15-17 hours. UNHCR provides an assistance package to refugees both in Yemen and Somalia. In Yemen, the package includes a multi-purpose cash grant to procure basic necessities for the journey and consolidate any outstanding debts or financial obligations. In-country and international transport assistance is provided by IOM, as well as medical care. UNHCR also facilitates exit permits and travel documentation in cooperation with the Yemeni and Somali authorities. On arrival in Somalia, returnees receive a reinstallation cash grant and an allowance. Returnees also receive a package consisting of household items, food assistance through WFP, and an education allowance for primary school children.

For more information on this topic, please contact:
Venezuelans fleeing food shortages and instability arrive at a reception and documentation centre in Pacaraima on the Brazilian border.  UNHCR/Reynesson Damasceno

UNHCR welcomes last night's decision of the Brazilian Supreme Court to overturn a decision by a Federal Judge in Roraima border state to suspend admission of Venezuelans to the country and close the border.

The Brazilian Government has till now ensured access to its territory for Venezuelan refugees and migrants in need of protection and provided them access to basic rights and services. UNHCR has been supporting the Government as it keeps the borders open and allows people to enter the country to find a safe place to restart their lives.

A UNHCR team remained on the Pacaraima border and continued to monitor the situation during the brief closure yesterday. They reported that some 210 Venezuelans were not able to finalize immigration procedures but were not deported. No pushbacks took place.

For more information on this topic, please contact:
Rohingya families arrive at a UNHCR transit centre near the village of Anjuman Para, Cox's Bazar, south-east Bangladesh after spending four days stranded at the Myanmar border with some 6,800 refugees.  UNHCR/Roger Arnold

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi today urged governments and business leaders in the Asia-Pacific to show solidarity with refugees in the region and share responsibility for protecting and finding solutions for them.

Addressing ministers of 26 countries at the Seventh Ministerial Conference of the Bali Process in Bali, Indonesia, Grandi appealed for regional support for over 700,000 Rohingya refugees who have fled to Bangladesh since August 2017, escaping violence and discrimination in Rakhine State, Myanmar.

I urge you to consider what support your governments could pledge in solidarity with Bangladesh until solutions are found for refugees, he said. But we need also to work towards comprehensive solutions for the people of Rakhine State, so that they are not forced to move in the first place.

The Bali Process is a multilateral forum for 45 governments and four international organizations, including UNHCR, to discuss issues relating to people smuggling, human trafficking, and related transnational crime. In March 2016, the ministers of the Bali Process adopted the Bali Declaration, agreeing on the need for a comprehensive regional approach based on burden-sharing and collective responsibility.

In his address the High Commissioner recalled the ground-breaking nature of the 2016 Declaration and urged governments to move from consultation to action on the commitments they made in 2016. Ministers at the Conference agreed to reaffirm those commitments, which include more predictable disembarkation options and cooperating on search and rescue for refugees and migrants in distress, and for root causes to be addressed by resolving statelessness, investing in inclusive development, and expanding safe pathways so that refugees and migrants have legal alternatives to dangerous modes of travel.

Focusing on the Rohingya refugee crisis, the High Commissioner asked member states of the Bali Process to consider how they could help Bangladesh shoulder the responsibility of hosting over 900,000 refugees, including those from previous waves of displacement. He also sought regional support for Myanmar in implementing a Memorandum of Understanding it concluded with UNHCR and UNDP in June to create conditions in Rakhine State conducive to the voluntary and sustainable return of refugees. Such conditions, such as freedom of movement and pathways to citizenship, are not yet in place.

The High Commissioner also addressed business leaders of major corporations who attended the Conference as part of the Bali Process Government and Business Forum, a public-private partnership to expand legal labour migration and combat human trafficking.

People forced to move can fall prey to modern slavery, adding the insult of exploitation to the injury of exile, he said. He appealed to the business community to work with governments to provide employment and other economic opportunities to refugees to prevent exploitation and achieve sustainable solutions.

There are now, more than ever, opportunities for refugees in this region to contribute to their host communities, and for governments and businesses in the region to invest inand benefit fromresilience in host countries and countries of origin, Grandi said. Only through this kind of solidarity, in which each of us does our part, can we ensure that no one in the region is abandoned, at sea or at home, and that no country in the region is abandoned when it opens its doors to those in need.

The full statement delivered by the High Commissioner at the Ministerial Conference is available here.

For more information on this topic, please contact:
Islamabad, Aug 7 (UNI) Pakistan's apex anti-corruption organisation National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has demanded that the two pending references against former prime minister Nawaz Sharif should be trialled in the same court that convicted Mr Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and son-in-law retired Capt Muhammad Safdar in the Avenfield properties reference last month.

NAB has 'strongly' opposed transfer of two pending references against Mr Sharif to the court of any other judge, a Dawn report said on Tuesday. The two pending refrences are related Al-Azizia and Flagship Investment.

Arguing before a division bench of the Islamabad High Court which heard appeals of the Sharifs for transfer of Al-Azizia and Flagship Investment references on Monday, NABs additional deputy prosecutor general Sardar Muzaffar Abbasi said that Accountability Judge Mohammad Bashir was the senior most judge in the subordinate judiciary of Islamabad. Since Judge Bashir had heard the three references against the Sharifs for over 10 months, the references should not be transferred to any other court in the interest of justice, he argued.
Drug bust case: Sameer Wankhede's wife writes to Maha CM, seeks his help 28 Oct 2021 | 10:34 PM Mumbai, Oct 28 (UNI) Amidst a slew of allegations levelled by NCP senior leader and state minister Nawab Malik against her husband over the October 2 drug bust case, Kranti Redkar, wife of NCB zonal director Sameer Wankhede, has written an emotional letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray urging him to save her and her family from all this drug episode. see more..

Tejaswi says Nitish attempting to emotionally exploit people 28 Oct 2021 | 10:32 PM Patna, Oct 28 (UNI) Leader of the opposition Tejaswi Prasad Yadav on Thursday tried to turn the tables on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for his remark , "Lalu can get me shot", claiming that this statement shows that Mr Kumar was trying to emotionally exploit people for political gains, as he senses his defeat in the ongoing assembly by-elections in Bihar. see more..

Dowry death case: Man gets 10 years rigorous imprisonment in AP 28 Oct 2021 | 10:31 PM Kakinada, Oct 28 (UNI) The fourth additional district Judge N. Srinivasarao delivering his judgment in a dowry death case here on Thursday has convicted the prime accused Chikaramilli Sai Surendra, a temporary employee in electricity office, and sentenced him to undergo 10 years rigorous imprisonment. see more..

RJD has accepted defeat even before polling : Sushil 28 Oct 2021 | 10:29 PM Patna, Oct 28 ( UNI ) Former Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and BJP Rajya Sabha MP Sushil Kumar Modi on Thursday said that Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has accepted its defeat even before polling for the by elections in the state and is now resorting to fraud. see more..
US Ambassador meets Governor N N Vohra

Srinagar, Aug 7 (UNI) Ambassador of United States of America to India Kenneth I Juster on Tuesday met Governor N N Vohra and discussed matters relating to further strengthening of the rapidly advancing IndiaUS understanding on several fronts, particularly with regard to issues pertaining to the war against terrorism.

A Public Relation Officer (PRO) of Raj Bhavan said the Ambassador of United States of America to India accompanied by Alexi Lefevre, Political Officer and Sukesh, Senior Political Specialist, called on the Governor at the Raj Bhavan.

The Ambassador discussed with Governor matters relating to further strengthening of the rapidly advancing IndiaUS understanding on several fronts, particularly in regard to issues relating to the war against terrorism, he said.
Woman escapes from Sheikh's custody

Patiala, Aug 7 (UNI) In yet another instance of human trafficking to the Gulf, a woman from Patiala who was sold to a Shiekh in Oman by luring her with fake job promises, escaped from his custody, police said on Tuesday.



"One fine day my neighbour Sonia asked me if I have a passport and I said yes. She gave me a proposal to work in Oman at a salary of Rs 30,000 per month and i agreed. Initially my husband refused to it, but I was keen to go and make money. Everything was final, as I met two men Kawal and Sanjeev who processed all the formalities. I ended up deciding not to go and I met Sanjeev to call it off. We met at Gopal Sweets, where he threatened me to pay 2.5 lakh rupees if I refused to go to Oman. I had no option but to follow what he asked me to do," she said.
Is youth engagement crucial in running successful awareness-raising campaigns?

Issyk - Kul Region, Kyrgyz Republic - 7 August 2018 - The Global Action against Trafficking in Persons and the Smuggling of Migrants ( GLO.ACT) organized, from 2-4 July 2018, a media workshop for over 30 representatives of youth organizations from seven regions of the Kyrgyz Republic. The workshop was organized in close cooperation with the State Agency on Youth Affairs under the government of the Kyrgyz Republic, and in partnership with GLO.ACT project implementing partners IOM and UNICEF.

In terms of context, the last migration report of the State Migration Service published in 2017 reveals that about 47% youth stated that they want to leave the country for the purpose of employment abroad. Yet most of them do not know anything about the relevant legislation of their destination country, including employment rules and procedures. Therefore, they become one of the most vulnerable groups targeted by criminal migrant smuggling and human trafficking networks.

In 2017, GLO.ACT organized the nationwide awareness rising campaign entitled "100 Days against Trafficking in Persons in the Kyrgyz Republic" in partnership with key government stakeholders and civil society in seven regions of the country. The campaign covered a broad range of public events organized by each region with the participation of over 10,000 people, including over 70% youth. Following the successful delivery of the "100 Days against Trafficking in Persons" campaign, a closing conference was organized in January 2018 thath led to a set of recommendations for the future. One of the main recommendations was for participants to further engage youth and youth organizations and directly involve them in the planning and delivery of the 2018 awareness raising campaign by using a "peer to peer" approach. The thinking behind this was that such an approach would lead to even better outcomes and may result in behavioral change amongst youth.

In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Mirlan Parkhanov said, "Youth have the power to change their future. We have to work together with relevant government stakeholders and civil society to effectively prevent human trafficking and migrant smuggling amongst the young population. Many young people are leaving the country, and we need to educate everyone about the potential risks."

This was the first time that over 30 representatives from youth organizations and young leaders attended a media workshop organized by GLO.ACT and relevant civil society organizations. During the workshop, youth organizations and young leaders were taught about trafficking in persons and the smuggling of migrants, their definitions and what the difference is between these two crimes, and how they fit with international and national legal frameworks. They also became more familiar with TIP law implementing government agencies and civil society organizations working in seven regions. GLO.ACT presented a recently launched video and distributed publication capturing the successful delivery of "100 Days against TIP" campaign among workshop participants. The IOM representative shared with workshop participants useful information on existing national referral mechanisms for victims of trafficking in persons and smuggled migrants. This included the sharing of the hotline "189" information about crisis centers and shelters as well as the recently launched mobile application called "Migrant Guide". The UNICEF representative delivered a separate session on forced marriages and child marriages as one of the forms of exploitation of trafficking in persons. They also spoke about the phenomenon of "bride kidnapping" that frequently ends tragically with victims either committing suicide or becoming a homicide statistic. The phenomenon has been on the increase amongst the young population in the Kyrgyz Republic over the past few years.

"I can now say that I have a much better understanding about trafficking in persons. It is an issue that touched my heart. As a young leader, I will make a huge effort to help prevent and fight against this crime," said Almira, a young leader from the Osh region during the wrap-up session of the meeting.

The main focus of the 3-day workshop was team building and joint planning to further deliver the "100 Days against TIP" campaign as one team. As a result, a detailed media plan for the delivery of the "100 Days against TIP" campaign was developed by youth organizations, and a new youth network is under establishment. Media plans will be endorsed by local government authorities and will be implemented in partnership with relevant government stakeholders, civil society organizations and international community.

On 12 July, GLO.ACT presented a detailed media plan with cost estimation of activities at the TIP coordination meeting hosted by the OSCE with participation of representatives of the Embassy of the United States of America, IOM, ILO, UNICEF and UN Women. Meeting participants expressed their interest to join and support the nationwide awareness raising campaign that will start on 10 September 2018 and run until 10 December 2018. UNODC will be the lead GLO.ACT agency coordinating all the activities in the seven regions.

The Global Action to Prevent and Address Trafficking in Persons and the Smuggling of Migrants (GLO.ACT) is a four-year (2015-2019), 11 million joint initiative by the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The project is being implemented in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). GLO.ACT aims to provide assistance to governmental authorities and civil society organizations across 13 strategically selected countries: Belarus, Brazil, Colombia, Egypt, Kyrgyz Republic, Lao PDR, Mali, Morocco, Nepal, Niger, Pakistan, South Africa, Ukraine. GLO.ACT works with the 13 countries to plan and implement strategic national counter-trafficking and counter smuggling efforts through a prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnerships approach. It supports the development of more effective responses to trafficking and smuggling, including providing assistance to victims of trafficking and vulnerable migrants through the strengthening of identification, referral, and direct support mechanisms.

For more information, please contact:

Madina Sarieva

GLO.ACT National Project Officer

madina.sarieva@un.org

www.unodc.org/unodc/en/human-trafficking/glo-act/

Email: glo.act@un.org

Twitter: @glo_act
Published: August 07, 2018

UT Named One of The Best Colleges by The Princeton Review

The University of Tampa has been again named by The Princeton Review as one of the nation's best institutions for undergraduate education.

The rankings, listed in the book The Best 384 Colleges, are based on surveys of 138,000 students at 384 top colleges.

"We picked the 384 'best' colleges for our book primarily for their outstanding academics; we highly recommend each one," said Robert Franek, The Princeton Review's editor-in-chief and the book's lead author.

In its profile, students praise UT as a "school rich in diversity, student engagement opportunities and academics." They also acknowledge the "amazing professors" who are "encouraging, insightful, well-versed in their fields of study, and have many connections in the Tampa area they are always willing to share."

Students also say of campus life: "The school is always jumping with events to go to and opportunities to take advantage of." And of the student body, they say "most people here are very friendly and easy to talk to. It is easy to find friends through the dorms, clubs or other activities."

In a "Survey Says" sidebar in the book's profile on UT, The Princeton Review lists topics that UT students surveyed for the book were in most agreement about in their answers to survey questions. The list includes: "Students love Tampa, FL," "Recreation facilities are great" and "Easy to get around campus."

"UTs continued inclusion in this well-respected guide is a testament to the expertise and commitment of our faculty and staff to provide an outstanding educational experience for students," said UT President Ronald L. Vaughn.

The Princeton Review's school profiles and ranking lists in The Best 384 Colleges are posted at PrincetonReview.com. For more information on the rankings and methodology, visit Surveying Students: How It Works.
Twelve migrant agricultural workers were killed when the van transporting them during tomato harvest season smashed into a lorry in southern Italy. (AFP Photo)

Both crashes took place near the city of Foggia in the Puglia region, with 12 people - all non-EU citizens - killed in a crash on Monday, the Italian fire service said.

Italian media reported that the workers were being taken back to their makeshift homes after a day's work when their van slammed head-on into a lorry transporting harvested tomatoes.

On Saturday, four African farm workers were killed and four others seriously injured in another collision with a tomato truck.

Every summer thousands of labourers from around Europe and Africa work in the area picking tomatoes under the blazing sun.

Although most of those working in the fields in Italy have regular papers, rarely do they receive the benefits and salaries required by law and many live in squalid conditions.

They are often at the mercy of day labourer recruiters - sometimes linked to organised crime - who operate as intermediaries and collect a portion of the workers' pay.

Otherwise, the workers are forced to organise themselves independently, coming to wark by bicycle or in dilapidated and overcrowded vehicles.

For years, unions and associations that help migrant workers have called for a public transport system to be created around Foggia for the peak harvest season.

The Puglia region has now budgeted for such a system, governor Michele Emiliano said on Monday, but he added that cooperation and transparency from the farms was crucial.

Farmers in the region are also struggling, with large retailers forcing down the price of produce.

'SHAMEFUL SYSTEM'

Labour minister Luigi Di Maio, who is also co-deputy prime minster and the leader of the anti-establishment Five Star Movement that governs with the anti-migrant League, promised on Monday to increase the number of inspectors in the region.

He called the current situation "a shameful system that exploits the desperation of people willing to do anything to work".

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said he would travel to Foggia on Tuesday.

Dozens of African agricultural workers living in one of the area's shanty towns decided to go on strike on Wednesday following Saturday's accident, the representative of the USB union, Aboubakar Soumahoro, told AFP.

"At dawn, the farm workers will march from the countryside to Foggia, in order to claim dignified working conditions," he said.

The International Organisation for Migration commented that despite efforts by institutions and civil society to fight against exploitation, "each summer we find ourselves needing to comment on the death of Italian and foreign workers in the agri-food sector".

The archbishop of Foggia, Vincenzo Pelvi, also weighed in on the accidents saying "we must not, we cannot remain indifferent before the tragic deaths of our brothers".

He called for a mass to be held on Monday evening at the cathedral to pray for the 16 victims of the two accidents and for the recovery of the injured.
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc met with Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship Jorge Faurie last Tuesday

Jorge Faurie, who first came to Vietnam for a visit as an expert 22 years ago, recently visited the country in his new position as Argentinian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship, accompanied by representatives of companies seeking partners in Vietnams agricultural and foodstuff sectors.

Vietnam is now quite different from how it was 22 years ago. I see the country strongly growing at an annual rate of over 6 per cent, with the great demand for consumption, especially in agricultural and foodstuff products. That creates opportunities for Argentinian businesses, Faurie said.

Baldini Estela Monica, business manager of agro-aquatic producer Conarpesa Continental Armadores De Pesca S.A., said that his company currently exports its products to 19 foreign markets and wants to export shrimps and squids to Vietnam.

Vietnam is a large consumer of these products. This is our opportunity, Monica said.

Like other Argentinian companies, Graneles Sudamericanos, an agricultural, grain, and feed merchandising company, is also seeking to create a foothold in Vietnam. We offer grains, oil seeds, flours, and meals, specialities, Andean seeds, and feed ingredients, the companys representative Juan Carlos Trigo said.

Arcor S.A.I.C. also wants to export its confectionery and foodstuff products to Vietnam, where the demand for these products is growing by double-digit percentages, in line with a rise in incomes. Arcor sees opportunities in Vietnam and wants to develop flavours and product presentation according to the tastes of increasingly selective consumers.

In fact, since late 2017, many Argentinian delegations, including hundreds of companies, have come to Vietnam in search of business opportunities in the agricultural, foodstuff, and pharmaceutical sectors. In the first seven months of this year, three delegations entered Vietnam.

According to Vietnams Ministry of Industry and Trade, the two countries two-way trade turnover rose from $2.3 billion in 2015 to $2.9 billion in 2016 and $3.03 billion last year10 times higher than the figures reached a decade ago. Turnover reached $1.5 billion in the first half of this year.

Currently, Argentina is Vietnams second-largest trade partner in Latin America, while Vietnam is Argentinas fifth-largest import market in the world.

Last week, Minister Faurie met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and the ministers of Industry and Trade and Foreign Affairs, saying that Argentina is seeking stronger partnerships with Vietnam and the ASEAN as a whole as Argentinian businesses are eager to export their agricultural and foodstuff products. We hope that we will see a free trade agreement (FTA) between the Mercosur and the ASEAN in the future, Minister Faurie said.

Consisting of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, Mercosur is a regional economic bloc established in 1991. It accounts for 70 per cent of South Americas population and has a GDP of $2.7 trillion, equivalent to 76 per cent of South Americas total GDP.

The average import tariff rate imposed by Vietnam on Argentinian products is 10-15 per cent. An FTA may help reduce the rate to 0 per cent. Minister Faurie said that the FTA would help triple the two countries two-way trade turnover.

Both countries will also push the negotiations, signing, and implementation of co-operation programmes in the agriculture, IT, pharmaceuticals, processing, and manufacturing industries, biotechnology, security and defence, and tourism.

It is expected that in the near future, PM Phuc will pay a visit to Argentina, and Argentinas President Mauricio Macri will, in turn, visit Vietnam in early 2019.

In September 2018, Argentina will welcome a delegation of about 40 Vietnamese companies seeking business opportunities with Argentinian partners. The two nations will also hold an inter-governmental meeting in Argentina.
Located at the heart of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho has established itself as an economic growth engine for the entire region

What advantages set the city apart from its regional peers?

The city of Can Tho has a strategic position, as it is located at the heart of the Mekong Delta region. Apart from enjoying fairly developed technical and economic infrastructure and a favourable geographic position, Can Tho is a robust economic, finance, education and training, science-technology, and healthcare centre of the region.

Home to abundant and skilled human resources, Can Tho is poised to serve as a growth engine to drive the regions development. Generally, Can Tho is a youthful city full of potential in the regions dynamic development landscape. Favourable nature and fertile land has made the city an ideal area for agricultural development, particularly planting rice, specialty fruit trees, aquaculture, and livestock breeding.

Can Tho has succeeded in building some major industries with competitive advantages, such as seafood processing, garment and textiles, footwear, food and beverage production, plastic, rubber, and chemicals.

The city is currently home to eight industrial zones (IZs) seeking further investment, with a total area surpassing 2,279 hectares. Its position amid the regions big river systems, as well as the intermingled river and stream networks, provide Can Tho with an evergreen eco-system all year round, while its distinct culture and history makes the city appealing to visitors with a variety of tours on offer.

As for trade and services, Can Tho is a centre for shopping, serving the whole region and other parts of the country with its huge volume of products and services.

Last year, its sales and services revenue hit VND106 trillion ($4.69 billion), just behind Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. With nearly 1.3 million residents, 75 per cent of them of working age, Can Tho offers abundant human resources to meet investors requirements. With a well-developed infrastructure of road and waterway transport systems, seaports, airports, and logistics services, Can Tho provides easy access to other localities in the region and acts as one of the major import-export hubs nationwide.

What sectors does the city prioritise for investment?

In our view, the projects in need of investment must be put forward on a selective basis to ensure bringing practical effects to socio-economic development not only for Can Tho, but for the whole delta region.

To ensure socio-economic development benefits all people and enterprises, Can Tho has made public a wish list of 54 projects seeking investment totaling VND124 trillion ($5.48 billion) and covering 4,780ha.

The projects focus on industrial development for high-tech agricultural zones, IZs, and industrial clusters, also including projects dealing with IT, logistics, energy, tourism infrastructure, real estate, transport, culture, sports, and healthcare.

How will Can Tho attract investors into these projects?

Investors have shown interest in 44 out of the 54 projects, totalling an area of 4,400 ha and an estimated VND112.9 trillion ($5 billion) in total investment

capital. Significantly, 22 out of these 44 projects have the potential for short-term deployment, as the investors have satisfied all legal requirements. These projects are valued at VND82 trillion ($4.34 billion) and cover 2,756ha.

Does Can Tho get any speicalised policies from the government to realise the citys socioeconomic development plans?

The National Assemblys Standing Committee has advocated a governmental decree on regulating some specific mechanisms on investment, finance, budget, and power decentralisation applicable to Can Tho. This is expected to create new resources for development through suitable policy incentives, thus enabling the city to grow more sustainably into the future. It also set to make deserving contributions to the region and to the whole countrys development.

What are the local authorities doing so as to effectively support investors and businesses?

In recent years, in addition to applying government-regulated incentive policies and mechanisms, investors doing business in the city received active support in various phases of their project implementation, from investment preparation, compensation, and site clearance to technical support and transport infrastructure construction. The investors have also received support in credit rates, human resource training, investment promotion, and technological innovation. Dialogues between local leaders and businesses are held periodically to help the investors tackle difficulties they face in a timely manner.

Therefore, over the past six years, Can Tho has constantly found itself among the top 15 cities and provinces in the Provincial Competitiveness Index (PCI) ranking. Last year, the city ranked 10th out of 63 Vietnamese localities in the PCI. The local authorities plan to continue seeking and supporting investors, strives to build up an increasingly conducive investment environment for the business community. It also aims to turn the city into a trustworthy and attractive destination for investors.
Wind turbines of Dam Nai power project in Ninh Hai and Thuan Bac districts in the south-central province of Ninh Thuan, slated to enter commercial production in the final quarter of 2018. - VNA/VNS Photo Nguyen Thanh

Vietnams demand for energy rises by an average 9.5 per cent year-on-year in the last 15 years, reaching 13 per cent increase in 2006-11 and 11 per cent in 2011-16 period.

According to Vietnam Energy Outlook 2017 report released last September, imported energy could account for 37.5 per cent of its total supplies in 2025 and more than half (58.5 per cent) in 2035.

Vietnamese economy has transformed itself from an agrarian economy which relied primarily on traditional biomass fuels, to a modern mixed economy, one of the fastest growing ones in the world, resulting in rapid changes in the energy sector.

According to the Electricity and Renewable Energy Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), oil, coal, natural gas, hydropower and non-commercial biomass (woods, agricultural waste) are the main primary domestic energy sources. In recent years, the total output of these forms of energy doesnt witness any substantial change, the department said.

Nguyen Van Thanh, deputy head of the department, said after more than 10 years of implementing Vietnam National Energy Development Strategy 2020, in general, the energy sector has seen positive results, evidence in the achievement of several targets, especially ones dealing with electricity access in rural areas or meeting socio-economic energy demands.

According to the departments report, total electricity production and purchase of the State-owned Electricity Vietnam (EVN) reached 192.45 billion kWh, up 8.6 per cent compared to the previous year; the national power sales achieved 174.05 billion kWh, an increase of 8.92 per cent.

Vietnam scored 78.69/100 points in the Getting Electricity indicator (part of Word Banks Doing Business index) and ranked 64th out of 190 nations and economies, moving up 32 places against 2016.

Installed generating capacity of Vietnam in 2015, for example, reached 39,350MW, up 1.8 times compared to five years before, and ranking second in ASEAN countries.

However, the energy sector failed to meet set targets on oil refinement and oil reserves, nuclear energy, or connecting its electrical lines and natural gas supply lines with other countries in Southeast Asia.

The Government originally aimed to refine 30-35 million tonnes of oil a year by 2020, but going on the current rate, realistically, it will only meet half its goal (16.5 million tonnes) in two years time.

Vietnam still doesnt have its own oil reserves, and can currently only hold 30 days worth of oil for commercial purposes while the goal is to maintain stable storage worth 45 days of usage in 2010, and 60 days of usage in 2020, in a bid to offset price volatility.

One of the energy sectors strategic power connectivity plans is to link with regional countries power grids on the 500kV transmission lines, but so far, Vietnam is only capable of purchasing/selling contracts with China or Laos on the 220kV lines. A natural gas linkage with regional countries, similarly, remains a pipe dream.

Reliance on imports

According to Tran Van Tung, deputy minister of science and technology, the countrys energy sector is facing layered challenges.

On one hand, the sector needs to produce as much energy as possible to meet the demands of socio-economic development, on the other hand, it needs to honour international commitments on sustainable development and reduces reliance on fossil energy, which is already nearing its limits.

In the context of rising demands, near maximum exploitation of hydropower resources, and the venture into nuclear energy halted indefinitely, Vietnam has been importing primary energy sources to produce electricity, Tung said.

"The increase of the ratio of imported energy in the total primary energy output will have worrying implications for the countrys energy security," he said.

Regarding electricity supply, until 2020, the country would not have much to worry about, said Nguyen Van Vy, vice chairman of Vietnam Energy Association (VEA).

However after 2020, the prospect of electricity shortage would become more and more visible, which could be blamed on delayed schedule of several key power projects, such as the Thai Binh II thermopower plant project by the State-owned oil and gas group PetroVietnam and other Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) projects in the southern region.

Renewable energy

Experts maintained the only viable way forward for Vietnam is to focus on renewable energy to secure its future.

What we need right now is mechanisms to stimulate renewable energy projects. Vietnam wont have to be concerned about electricity paucity, provided sufficient attention and resources are poured into renewable energy, especially solar energy, given how a project can start from conception to operation within a year if the paperwork is handled quickly, Vy told Hai Quan Cuoi Tuan (Customs, Weekend Edition) newspaper.

Deputy minister Tung also agreed that "this is the time Vietnam needs to make a breakthrough and master the new energy forms".

Its entirely possible if the authorities, businesses and scientists all work together, and with the technical expertise support from developed countries and international energy associations, Tung added.

Dr Nguyen The Mich, consultant for the German Agency for International Co-operation or (GIZ), is steadfast in his belief that with its abundant renewable energy potentials, Vietnam can even become a net energy exporter by 2050.

However, with the current progress on solar and wind energy development in Vietnam, Mich is not convinced the country will be able to achieve 6.5 per cent of renewable energy in the total supplies by 2020.

Installed capacity of wind energy is now 200 MW, with several new projects slated to be completed later this year, but even so, the capacity reaches just 360-400MW. To fulfill the Governments target of 800MW by 2020, another 400MW is needed in two years time.

A wind energy project requires several procedures, calculating wind potentials in at least 365 days, data analysis and setting up several databases to see the viability and feasibility of the project. This puts the prospect of attaining 800MW in wind energy by 2020 at risks, he said.

In addition, wind energy technology is much more complicated than solar energy, and Vietnam is not the producer of equipment, while the Governments offered feed-in tariffs (Governments purchase price) for wind energy stayed at an unattractive 7.8 cent/kWh.

GIZ has proposed the feed-in tariff for onshore wind projects be raised to 8.78 cent/kWh, and 9 cent/kWh for offshore wind projects. This would certainly draw in quality investors, Mich said.

Pham Phu Uynh, an energy expert, said the priority must be put on developing renewable energy technologies domestically.

Most renewable energy projects use technologies bought overseas, resulting in higher production prices compared to the traditional energy forms of hydropower or thermopower, Uynh said.

In addition, the seas of Vietnam face frequent turbulences and typhoons, therefore, any imported wind energy technology should be customised to our natural conditions first, he added.

Steve Sawyer, Secretary General of Global Wind Energy Council, has also expressed interests in co-operation with the Vietnamese Government in settling legal bottlenecks and promoting transparency in bidding process to make Vietnam an attractive destination for international investors.
A police union said the fire department did not notify police promptly of the fire's exact location so they could set up proper roadblocks. (Photo: AFP/Louisa Gouliamaki)

The woman succumbed to burn injuries hours after the government, widely criticised for its response to the emergency, replaced the heads of the police and fire brigade.

The minister responsible for the police and state security also quit last week.

Another 36 people are still hospitalised after the Jul 23 disaster, six of them in critical condition.

Opposition parties have accused the government of failing to provide adequate warning and evacuate the coastal resort of Mati which had been frequently hit by wildfires, in addition to subsequently trying to hide the scale of the loss of human life as the disaster unfolded.

The fires burned with such ferocity that most people fled to the sea with just the clothes on their backs.

In the days that followed, the firefighters and police issued conflicting announcements over what went wrong.

One police union this week said the fire department officers had not promptly notified police of the fire's exact location so they could set up proper roadblocks in the area.

As a result, many drivers were mistakenly diverted into the fire zone and died after becoming trapped in Mati's narrow streets.

The government had insisted that with winds blowing at speeds of up to 120 kilometres (75 miles) per hour, there was little time to mount an effective evacuation.

Officials also said that decades of illegal construction in the area had blocked escape roads to the coast.

The environment ministry has now pledged to tear down illegal buildings - permitted by successive administrations to remain standing in return for fines and possible votes - in Mati and other fire-prone areas.
The World Bank is co-operating with the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) on a plan to organise the first-ever Forum on Reform and Development in Hanoi. It is scheduled for late September and will be held annually from 2018 to 2021.

Unlike the Vietnam Development Forum, which is held every December and focused on policy dialogue between the Vietnamese government and international development partners and donors, this national-level forum is solely focused on reform and development issues.

Specifically, it is intended to be a place for high-profile experts, development partners, reformers, and pro-reform organisations and individuals to meet, exchange and propose ideas, initiatives, and specific actions on reform and development. The Vietnamese government will then translate them into practical actions in service of national development.

The forum will be focused on burning issues in the economy and new solutions that can be used to solve these issues. The solutions must have far-reaching, continuous, and long-term impacts on the countrys development, said an MPI document on the planned organisation of the forum.

The key theme for this years forum is currently under consideration. It is expected that the themes will be about restructuring of the state apparatus, innovation in reform and development, improvement of economic competitiveness, and promotion of human capital.

The forum will be chaired by leaders of the government and the MPI as well as representatives of development partners. Participants will include representatives of development partners, domestic and international experts, scholars, and representatives of foreign enterprises and investors.

Two weeks ago, Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung established a steering committee to organise the forum.

At last weeks cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc ordered ministries and relevant government agencies to boost the reform of the apparatus and cut down on business conditions, in favour of people, enterprises, and investors.

Two weeks ago, PM Phuc enacted Directive No.20/CT-TTg on speeding up the reform of specialised inspections and reducing and simplifying business conditions. Under the document, ministries and relevant government agencies must, before August 15, complete their enactment of documents on the reform of specialised inspections and reducing and simplifying at least 50 per cent of the lists of goods, products, and procedures for specialised inspections. Before this date, ministries and relevant government agencies must also report on these tasks to the government.

The prime minister expected Vietnam to become a new Asian economic tiger, and said this year would likely see a record number of 150,000 newly-established companies, up from a record figure of 127,000 last year and 110,000 in 2016. To reach this target, we will have to do many things, including continuing to remove hundreds of unnecessary investment and business procedures, PM Phuc stressed.

Ousmane Dione, World Bank country director for Vietnam, told VIR, The Vietnamese governments reform programmes are going in the right direction. If these reform programmes are sequenced and implemented effectively, they will open many positive opportunities for Vietnam.

First, he stressed, they would help the country consolidate and enhance macro-economic stability as well as resilience amid rapidly changing and volatile global developments. Second, reforms would help Vietnam improve the quality of economic development and lift productivity growth. This is critical for the countrys long-term sustainable growth, Dione said.
Cedrik Neike

Where will digitalisation take us in the future?

We are only at the dawn of the Digital Age. Around 90 per cent of all the data in the world was generated just over the past two years. The Internet of Things (IoT) is growing at a breathtaking speed. Around eight billion devices and machines are connected with the internet today. Forecasts show that number will likely grow to one trillion by 2030.

The digitalisation of society and Industry 4.0 will allow for entirely new functionalities, intensified networking, unprecedented speed, and resource savings  all while satisfying growing customer demand for highly individualised products.

What is Siemens answer to this digital transformation?

Its quite simple. Like we did before with other technological inventions in our companys history, we want to shape the future  the digital future. Siemens has been radically transforming itself from a hardware-focused company to a software-driven one. With massive investments in

acquisitions of software companies in recent years, Siemens has made a significant push into the software space. Today, were one of the worlds largest software companies with more than 5 billion ($5.79 billion) in annual revenue from software and digital services and more than 24,500 software engineers.

We are using digitalisation to open up completely new business models, such as manufacturing with digital twins, and we perfectly combine our hardware experience with the software skills. Siemens offers its cloud-based, open IoT operating system MindSphere to the industry to make machines smart, make production lines fast, and prevent equipment failures before they happen. Connected machines upload data to the cloud to be analysed. Thats where data turns into business insights that can increase efficiency and profitability.

What do you see as the challenges facing Vietnams manufacturers and how should they address these obstacles through digitalisation?

Reducing time-to-market, greater flexibility requests, and increasing quality at the lowest possible price while being energy-efficient are the main challenges manufacturers face today. Apart from that, they must decide on where to start their digitalisation journey and what to fix first before going any further.

Digitalisation can help manufacturers with their complete value chain, starting from product design, production planning, product engineering, to product manufacturing and, finally, operational services. Siemens offers a holistic approach to the integration of manufacturers value chains. We are currently the only technology provider to have a thorough product portfolio addressing all five value chain steps of a digital enterprise: product design, production planning, engineering,

execution, and services. We go beyond our role as a product or system provider to being a consultant that provides additional advice to manufacturers on how to customise and tailor an ideal, digitalised road map.

Vietnam is also facing many challenges as a result of rapid urbanisation nationwide. Many cities, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, are struggling to cope with overstretched infrastructure. In your opinion, what are the prerequisites for these cities to become smart cities?

I would say digital infrastructure, smart mobility, smart grid, and smart buildings. Digitally enabled infrastructure, based on a foundation of electrification and automation, can drive efficiencies in services through optimisation of operations and equipment, changing operational patterns based on demand, and managing and maintaining the systems remotely. Mobility solutions increase the availability of infrastructure, optimise throughput, and create a new quality of passenger experience through digitalisation. For instance, the digital railway provides a new opportunity for cities and train operators to run railways that are interactive and self-managing, and at the same time provides passengers with new levels of connectivity in addition to convenience and comfort. The smart grid provides an optimised balance of generation and demand, helping to reduce the overall consumption of electricity across the development by directly regulating devices or influencing consumer behaviour.

Smart building technology will help cities achieve the highest standards of environmental efficiency and reduce energy demands.

It is said that Siemens has a unique digital offering for the infrastructure needs of a city. Could you elaborate?

According to predictions, nearly 70 per cent of the global population will be living in cities by 2050. We believe cities can solve their challenges by using smart urban and digital technology. However, cities often struggle to turn the ever-greater amounts of data into valuable insights. High upfront costs, a lack of skills, or a lack of common data standards make it difficult to analyse big data in real time to derive actionable information that will drive decisions. Here, Siemens open IoT

operating system MindSphere comes into play again. It enables powerful city applications and digital services to further develop the infrastructure.

Valuable city-specific applications built on MindSphere deliver measurable results and enable digital services that are based on best-practice solutions. In addition, cities can leverage MindSphere to seamlessly integrate data throughout the infrastructure, not only driving operational efficiency, but also comparing simulation and test results with real-world observations.

What can Siemens do to support cities in Vietnam specifically?

We are working directly with cities worldwide to ensure that digital technologies are integrated into

planning so they deliver benefits immediately by reducing congestion, improving air quality, and increasing energy reliability.

In Vietnam, we are working with the Ministry of Transport and the city governments of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Danang to make transportation more efficient by implementing intelligent traffic lights and traffic management systems to regulate the flow of traffic. Last month, we signed an important memorandum of understanding with Hanoi to promote co-operation in intelligent traffic systems.

We believe that a widely deployed public transportation system will be the key factor to making cities more liveable and more competitive. Our metro solutions are available to support cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in doing this.

Last but not least we are working with Vinfast on their automobile manufacturing project. The electric vehicles from their production are manufactured with the support of Siemens technology.

Siemens has been officially present in Vietnam since 1993, so this year marks its 25th anniversary. What are Siemens commitments to the country in the years ahead?

Vietnam is entering a very exciting time and digitalisation is an opportunity for the country to leapfrog into becoming an industrialised nation very soon. Siemens understands Vietnams emerging challenges very well and is willing to help by offering our proven competencies in electrification, automation, and digitalisation.

We are at the forefront of digital innovation and we have already developed the relevant solutions for cities  for more efficiency, sustainability, and security. We are highly committed to being the partner of choice for Vietnamese customers, as well as supporting Vietnam in leading the way to digital transformation.
Could you shed some light on MHI's business strategy in Asia and Vietnam?

Jun Shirota

MHIs strategy in Asia, including Vietnam, is centred on our objective of channelling big thinking into solutions that can help the region progress and advance the lives of people in the countries where we operate. We are passionate about finding new, simpler, and more sustainable ways to power cities, improve infrastructure, innovate manufacturing practices, and connect people and businesses around the region with ever-increasing speed and efficiency. In Vietnam, MHI plans to focus on three sectors which we see as playing key roles in further solidifying national progress, namely industrial parks, airports, and urban development.

What are the opportunities for MHI in the fields of industrial parks and airports?

We see a great opportunity in helping Vietnamese industrial parks become smartermore energy-efficient, cost-efficient, and environmental friendly. We can provide more efficient equipment to individual factories, or work with industrial parks themselves in the planning stage to provide common infrastructure, so their individual tenant factories dont have to duplicate it.

One of the offerings is our end-to-end Energy Saving Solution, which attains reduced energy costs and improved reliability at a factory level. It uses advanced data visualisation, demand analysis, and simulation tools to determine granular electricity, heat, and water consumption patterns. Using the data generated from these sources, we can then install high-efficiency equipment and co-generation systems customised to the factorys needs. For the airport sector, as MHI is the largest automated guideway transit supplier in the world, we hope to introduce some of our product line-up under this category which are suitable for airport settings. These include automated people mover systems which are composed of driverless trains that transport people from one area of the airport to another.

How does MHI plan to contribute to Vietnams sustainable urban development?

We want to introduce solutions that can tackle the challenges of urbanisation like traffic management and waste management. For traffic management, MHI has many intelligent transport systems that can help improve traffic flow and reduce accidents and emissions. MHI has previously worked with the Ministry of Transport on a demonstration project targeting the integration of expressway electronic toll collection (ETC) systems. We have also supplied 50,000 on-board ETC units and antennas for use at the toll gates of the Ho Chi Minh City-Dau Giay section of the North-South Expressway. Meanwhile, MHIs waste-to-energy systems can help to meet Vietnams concurrent need for waste management, energy generation, and construction materials. The waste-to-energy systems enable the generation of electricity from the incineration of municipal solid waste. Using our proprietary technology SMASH (SMart ASH treatment system), the ash produced from the incineration can then be converted into material that can be mixed with cement for use in construction.

What is your plan to strengthen your presence in your core business areas, such as power generation, air conditioning, and logistics?

We believe that the power generation sector holds ample potential due to Vietnams rapid economic growth. Indeed, the countrys projected demand for electricity is set to outpace the current installed capacity soon. As such, we will continue our collaboration with companies like Electricity of Vietnam, PetroVietnam, and PV Power while exploring new partnerships with other organisations. One of our solutions for this sector is our air quality control systems, which can remove air pollutants from plant emissions. We also plan on helping meet Vietnams growing demand for air conditioning systemswhether for residential, commercial, or industrial purposeswhich can be attributed to the countrys continuing urbanisation, and the increase in newly-built infrastructure and buildings. Furthermore, we see an opportunity to expand our logistics solutions business in Vietnam. As e-commerce

expands, companies in this sector increasingly need high-quality logistical equipment and systems. We hope to meet their demand with our solutions, including electric and internal combustion forklifts as well as various warehouse handling equipment.

What are the key factors that make MHI a reliable partner for growth?

MHI has a long history of being a global leader in engineering and manufacturing since its founding in 1884. We hold 31,783 patents globally that help us deliver innovative and integrated solutions across a wide range of industries--from commercial aviation and transportation to power plants and gas turbines, and from machinery and infrastructure to integrated defence and space systems. We hope to bring more of these solutions to Vietnam. Above all, our extensive experience in delivering solutions for various local projects greatly reflects MHIs reliability as a partner for Vietnams growth.

MHI rolls out cross-industry solutions Cross-industry solutions will be a key focus for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Group in their next phase of development in Vietnam.
In order to develop the agricultural sector, Vietnam needs more investors to bring in capital and high-tech projects, Photo: Le Toan

Last Monday, in the tranquil and picturesque Central Highlands city of Dalat, a rendezvous point for many high-tech agricultural projects within Vietnam, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc asked ministries, relevant government agencies, and localities to take drastic action in order to revitalise the agricultural sector, which is now thirsty for investment. PM Phuc stated that joint efforts are needed from the government and the business community to turn Vietnam into one of the worlds top producers and processors of high-quality farm produce.

Over the next 10 years, Vietnam must become one of the 15 most agriculturally developed countries in the world, with agricultural product processing ranked in the top 10, PM Phuc told the national-level conference on boosting agricultural investment. Vietnam must be an agriculturally intensive processing centre of the world and a logistics centre for global agricultural trading.

To make this dream a reality, the prime minister has assigned the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) to compile a directive on agricultural investment attraction for the governmental approval.

PM Phuc also required ministries, relevant government agencies, and localities to strictly implement Decree No.57/2018/ND-CP, issued in April, on the mechanisms and policies required to attract investment into agricultural and rural development.

Decree 57 covers many types of new incentives regarding the rents of land and water surfaces, credit, transfer and the application of high-technology, human resources training, market expansion, and investment into the manufacturing of agricultural machinery and equipment.

For example, under the decree, the government will finance a maximum of VND15 billion ($664,000) for a project processing agricultural produce. The finances will be used to build its waste treatment infrastructure systems as well as for transport, electricity, water, workshops, and equipment required for the project.

PM Phuc also ordered that 50 per cent of agricultural and rural administrative procedures be removed in favour of people and the business community. Further fuelling the agricultural sector, the prime minister also requested the amendment of Decree No.55/2015/ND-CP on credit policies for agricultural and rural development, so as to raise maximum loan value without increasing collateral requirements for individuals and households. The amendment will expand the list of beneficiaries of the credit policy in the field of high-tech agriculture, and allow for the use of assets made from the loans of high-tech agricultural projects as collateral.

It is an urgent task to complete the legal framework for the sector, as agriculture has enormous potential for growth, PM Phuc stressed. A number of Vietnamese companies are now focusing on agricultural investment, an encouraging trend as well as a testament to the development potential of Vietnams agricultural sector.

Vietnam has become the worlds fifth-largest exporter of agro-food commodities such as rice, coffee beans, tea, cashew nuts, black pepper, rubber latex, and cassava, as well as aquatic products.

Over the past few years, local and foreign companies have been actively implementing high-tech agricultural projects in Vietnam, but many of them have yet to receive special incentives from the government. For instance, TH Group plans to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in high-tech agricultural projects nationwide, with a focus on producing fresh milk, organic vegetables, herbs, and fruit.

The group is currently developing its $53 million high-tech dairy farm in the central province of Phu Yen, while also developing two other dairy farming and fresh milk processing facilities in Ha Giang and Thanh Hoa provinces with the total investment capital of $287 million.

In another case, steel maker Hoa Phat Group has entered into egg production by developing two chicken farms in Phu Tho and Dong Nai provinces.

Nafood Group also kicked off the construction of a $9 million facility in the northern mountainous province of Son La to process export-oriented vegetables and fruit, including condensed passion fruit.

Nguyen Dang Quang, chairman of Masan Group, asked the government urgently to create policies to manage and develop near-shore water resources. To unlock the full potential of Vietnams long coastline, the Vietnamese government should formulate a clear strategy with an emphasis on sustainable farming.

Over the past years, foreign investors have also come to Vietnam to engage in large-scale agricultural projects. These include Cargill, CJ, CP, and Mavin Austfeed. Foreign direct investment (FDI) in the countrys agricultural sector, which holds only 1 per cent of the countrys total registered FDI capital, is largely focused on producing animal feed and processing farm produce.

The Vietnamese agricultural sector currently has a total of about 49,600 domestic and foreign-invested enterprises.
An investor watches stock prices on his personal computer at MB Securities Company.- VNs Photo Truong Vi

The benchmark VN Index on the HCM Stock Exchange was almost flat, gaining 0.07 per cent to end at 960.23 points. It gained 2.57 per cent last week.

The southern bourse had risen as much as 0.35 per cent earlier in the day.

The HNX Index on the Ha Noi Stock Exchange fell 0.61 per cent to end at 105.60 points. The northern market index was up a total of 0.52 per cent last week.

More than 267 million shares were traded on the two local exchanges, worth VND5.77 trillion (US$256.4 million).

Declining stocks were dominant on the market, outnumbering gainers by 246 to 167.

According to BIDV Securities Company (BSC), the negative moves of the two indices on Monday were attributed to the escalating trade tension between China and the US, which stunned the Chinese market during the day.

China last Friday announced plans for $60 billion worth of tariffs on US imports and its officials were pessimistic about the prospects of talks with Washington to resolve the conflict.

Net foreign selling was another factor that dampened local market sentiment, according to BSC.

Foreign investors on Monday net-sold VND340 billion. They posted a total net sell value of VND920 billion last week.

Foreign selling focused on property developer Vingroup (VIC), dairy producer Vinamilk (VNM) and high-end real estate firm Vinhomes (VHM).

VIC and VHM ended flat on Monday. VIC had gained a total of 4.8 per cent in the previous three sessions while VHM rose a total of 0.4 per cent in the previous two days.

Meanwhile, VNM fell 1 per cent to extend its total decline to 6.7 per cent since July 27.

Other underperforming industries included insurance, securities, energy and retail.

On the opposite side, bank stocks were among the sectors that kept the two bourses from falling deeper on Monday.

The banking sector index gained 0.4 per cent, data on vietstock.vn showed. The industry was driven by the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BID), Eximbank (EIB), Sacombank (STB) and Vietcombank (VCB).

Banks still offer opportunities for investors following their first-half earnings reports, said Nguyen Hong Khanh, analyst at Vietnam International Securities JSC (VIS).

Among other sectors that saw stock prices increase were healthcare and pharmaceuticals, plastic and rubber production and seafood processing.
The 'Equanimity', now returned to Malaysia AFP/Rully Prasetyo

The Cayman Islands-registered Equanimity, believed to be worth about US$250 million and belonged to a fugitive Malaysian financier with links to Najib, was seized in February off the Indonesian tourist island of Bali.

Indonesian authorities detained the super-yacht following a request by the US Department of Justice, which is investigating alleged massive misappropriation involving the 1MDB state fund.

"We are happy since the Equanimity yacht has been handed over to us by Indonesia," Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who is on a tour to Japan, said in a Facebook post.

YACHT TO ARRIVE AT PORT KLANG

The luxury yacht is expected to arrive in Malaysia on Tuesday at Pulau Indah, Port Klang, a government source told Channel NewsAsia.

"The yacht will berth at the Boustead Cruise Center, Pulau Indah, Port Klang, the government source told Channel NewsAsia.

Mahathir also thanked Indonesian President Joko Widodo for his cooperation.

Ties between Malaysia and Indonesia are close with Mahathir visiting Jakarta in June, his first official tour of the region after a stunning election victory in May over Najib.

A total of US$4.5 billion was allegedly misappropriated by top-level 1MDB officials and their associates, according to civil lawsuits filed by the US Department of Justice (DoJ).

The suits allege that US$1.7 billion worth of assets were allegedly bought with the stolen funds, which US officials are seeking to recover.

Those assets include the 90m super-yacht owned by Low Taek Jho - popularly known as Jho Low - a close Najib associate and former unofficial adviser to 1MDB.

Low, a flamboyant playboy known for partying with Hollywood A-listers, was believed to have been sailing around Asia on the yacht before it was seized.

JHO LOW RESPONDS

His lawyer called the seizure an "illegal act" in a press release on Monday.

"Mahathir has chosen to bring the asset illegally into a rigged Malaysian system manipulated by a man who only cares about his absolute political rule. It is ultimately justice that suffers," the statement said.

Dr Mahathir said in the video that if any parties claiming to be the yacht's owners could show proof that they bought the yacht with their own money and not stolen money, then they had the right to get it back.

"However, according to reports and an investigation by the United States Department of Justice, they are of the opinion that this yacht was bought with money from 1MDB whereby there were attempts to launder the money by buying yachts, buildings and others so that the money could no longer be seen as money stolen by them," he said.

The Equanimity is valued at US$250 million.

Najib, who set up 1MDB in 2009 and served as chairman of its advisory board, was charged in Malaysia in July with corruption offences linked to the scandal.

He denied all four charges and is currently out on bail.

RECOVER STOLEN LOOT

Mahathir has vowed to recover the stolen loot. The country's anti-corruption authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Jho Low.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng told reporters the government planned to take inventory of items one the yacht and open the vessel for public viewing, before eventually selling it "at the highest price".

It (the yacht) will be under the custody of the government of Malaysia. The ministry's concern is to get the best value for the ship. If we leave it, every day you've got to pay maintenance costs and you'll get to see the asset deteriorate, diminish and depreciate," he told reporters.

Lim said Malaysia's attorney-general was expected to issue a statement on Tuesday regarding the status of the yacht and address concerns that it could affect investigations by the DoJ.

Legal experts said the return of the yacht would bolster the case against Najib and other people linked to the scandal and could be used to prosecute Jho Low after the fugitive is caught.

"Of course it will help the prosecutors. It is part of the evidence of the crime committed. It is certainly a positive development in the investigations," N Surendran, adviser to a group called Lawyers for Liberty, told AFP.

Additional reporting by Amy Chew.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Chinese ride-hailing giant Didi Chuxing announced on August 6 that it will invest $ 1 billion in its auto services business as part of a broader rebranding of the unit, aiming to provide car-owners with one-stop automobile services.

Launched in April, the auto service business, which has been named Xiaoju Automobile Solutions, works on supplying such services as auto leasing, trading, refueling, maintenance, repair and car rentals.

It is reported that Xiaoju Automobile Solutions has already created an annualized gross merchandise volume (GMV) topping RMB 60 billion and has currently offered services in 257 Chinese cities with the cooperation of roughly 7,500 partners and distributors.

Building on our service to 30 million Didi users, we will endeavor to develop a leading one-stop auto service brand in virtue of thoughtful services and innovative technologies, said Kevin Chine, the newly appointed general manager of Xiaoju Automobile Solutions, who will directly report to Didi president Jean Liu.

The decision just came as Didi Chuxing has reportedly been preparing its IPO, which could happen as early as next year. However, the company has not disclosed the concrete listing plan yet.

On July 17, Didi Chuxing claimed that it received a $ 500 million worth of investment from Booking Holdings, a global leader in travel e-commerce. Meanwhile, two companies formed a strategic partnership to build up across-the-board mobility service ecosystem.
It is with prudence and determination that the Russian Federation and President Trump put a definitive end to the domination of the world by transnational interests.

Convinced that the balance of powers does not depend on their economics but rather on their military capacities, President Putin has certainly reinvigorated the quality of life for his compatriots, but he developed the Red Army before making the Russians rich. On 1 March, he revealed to the world the principal weapons in his arsenal and the beginning of his programme for economic development.

In the days that followed, the war was concentrated in the Eastern Ghouta. Russian Chief of Staff General Valeri Guerassimov telephoned his US counterpart, General Joseph Dunford ,and told him that in the case of US military intervention, Russian forces would target the 53 US ships in the Mediterranean and the Gulf, including their nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. Above all, he requested that President Trump be made aware of his countrys new military capacities.

Finally, the United States allowed the Syrian Arab Army and a few Russian infantry-men to free the Ghouta of the jihadists who occupied it.

Only the United Kingdom attempted to anticipate events by organising the  Skripal affair  - if the current world order were to collapse, we would once again have to employ the rhetoric of the Cold War, which set the kindly cowboys against the big bad Russian Bears.

In June, when the Syrian Arab Army, supported by the Russian Air Force, moved into the South of the country, the US embassy in Jordan warned the jihadists that as from now, they would have to defend themselves alone, without the aid or the support of the Pentagon and the CIA.

On 16 July in Helsinki, Presidents Putin and Trump went a lot further. They broached the subject of reconstruction, in other words, war damage. Donald Trump, as we have been writing here for the last two years, is opposed to the Puritan ideology, financial capitalism and the imperialism which is a direct result. He rightly assumes that his country is in no way obliged to bear the consequences of the crimes of his predecessors, of which his people had also been victims. He affirms that these crimes had been committed at the instigation, and for the profit, of the elite transnational financiers. He therefore considers that it is for them to pay, even though no-one knows precisely how to make them do so.

The two Presidents also agreed to facilitate the return of the refugees. By doing so, Donald Trump overthrew the rhetoric of his predecessor, according to which they were escaping  dictatorial repression  and not the invasion by the jihadists.

While in the South of the country, the jihadists were themselves fleeing before the Syrian and Russian forces, and a few desperate units of Daesh were committing unimaginable atrocities, the Russian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sergei Lavrov, and the Russian Chief of Staff, Valeri Guerassimov, undertook a tour of Europe and the Middle East.

They were welcomed as discreetly as possible in the European Union. Indeed, according to the Western narrative, General Guerassimov is a conquistador who invaded and annexed Crimea. He is therefore forbidden access to the Union, a self-proclaimed defender of the  rule of law . Unfortunately, since it was too late to remove his name from the list of sanctions, the Union decided to close its eyes to the grand principles and make an exception, allowing a visit by the hero of the reunification of Crimea and Russia. The shame which swamped the West-European leaders when faced with their own hypocrisy may explain the absence of official photographs of the hearings for the Russian delegation.

The Russian delegation resumed for each of its interlocutors a few of the decisions taken at the Helsinki Summit. Acting wisely, it abstained from asking for accounts concerning the role of each state during the war, calling on them only to help end it  withdrawal of the special forces, cessation of the secret war, suppression of the aid to the jihadists, return of the refugees, reopening of the embassies. In particular, it confirmed that everyone could participate in the reconstruction, all inclusive.

As soon as the delegation left, Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Emmanuel Macron craftily interrogated the Pentagon in order to find out if it was true that President Donald Trump intended to make certain transnational companies pay (KKR, Lafarge, etc.) - just to destabilise the folks on the other side of the Atlantic. The attitude of President Macron, ex-bank executive, is all the more deplorable in that he tried to symbolise his good faith by offering 44 tonnes of humanitarian aid to the Syrian population, transmitted by the Russian army.

In the Middle East, the visit by the Russian delegation was more widely covered by the media. Lavrov and Guerassimov were able to announce the creation of five committees for the return of the refugees. Each committee, in Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey, Iraq and Jordan, includes representatives of the host state, together with Russian and Syrian delegates. Yet no-one dared to ask the hard question  why would a committee like this not include the European Union?

Concerning the reopening of the embassies, the United Arab Emirates stole a march on the Westerners and their allies by negotiating the reopening of their own.

What was left was the Israeli preoccupation with obtaining Syrias departure from the Iranian military advisors and the pro-Iranian militias, including Hezbollah. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu multiplied his return trips to and from Moscow and Sotchi in order to defend his cause. We may remember that Guerassimov had ironised about the nerve of the beaten Israelis demanding the removal of the Iranian victors. As for Lavrov, he diplomatically ducked behind a refus de principe concerning interference in Syrias sovereignty.

Russia solved the problem  Russian military police re-installed UNO forces along the line of demarcation between Syria and Israel, from which they had been ejected four years ago. During this whole period, they were replaced by Al-Qaida, supported by Tsahal. Behind the line of demarcation, in Syrian territory, Russia has also installed eight military observation posts. In this way, Moscow can guarantee both to the UNO and Syria that the jihadists will not come back, and to Israel that Iran will not attack from Syria.

Israel, which until now had been betting on the defeat of the Syrian Arab Republic, and qualified its President as a  butcher , suddenly admitted by the voice of its Minister for Defence, Avigdor Liberman, that Syria was the victor of the conflict, and that President el-Assad was its legitimate head. In order to demonstrate his good will, Liberman ordered the bombing of a group of Daesh jihadists that until now he had kept in reserve.

Little by little, the Russian Federation and the White House are putting some order into international relations, and convincing various protagonists to withdraw from the war, and even to offer bids for the reconstruction. From its side, the Syrian Arab Army continues the liberation of it territory. It remains for President Trump to manage to withdraw his troops from the South (Al-Tanf) and the North of the country (East of the Euphrates), and for President Erdogan to abandon the jihadist refugees in the North-West (Idleb) to their destiny.
The Trump Administration is getting ready to reveal to the public its plan

for the Middle East.

Right now the two architects of this plan, Jared Kuschner (see photo) and

Jason Greenblat, are preparing several collaborators that have to work on

the following issues:

 the consequences of the plan on the political level and in terms of

security;

 the economic consequences;

 strategic communication.

In Riyadh, King Salman of Saudi Arabia recalled that the Kingdom maintained

the positions laid down in the peace initiative of Prince Abdallah, that

the Arab League adopted in 2002. [1] The declaration of King Salman has

been interpreted as a call to the order directed to his son, Prince Mohamed

ben Salman.

For his part, the President of the Palestine National Authority, Mahmud

Abbas, still thinks that by moving its embassy to Jerusalem, the United

States has lost every ounce of authority to negotiate on behalf of the

people of Palestine.
Israel has resumed its campaign of assassinations targeting scientists from

the Middle East

Israels approach has been systematic. First it crossed off Iraqi

military scientists, then it moved onto Iranian nuclear scientists. Now,

the Hebrew State has sponsored the elimination of General Aziz Asber, one

of Syrias leading military scientists.

Doctor Asber (see photo) was the Deputy Director of Station 4 of the Syrian

Centre for Research and Scientific Studies. He was an expert in rockets

and missiles.

According to the Syrian newspaper, Al-Watan, both General Asber and his

bodyguard were killed when their vehicle blew up on 4 August 2018. We do

not know for sure if the vehicle had been planted with a bomb or if it had

been destroyed by a drone attack.

Israel intends to maintain its scientific superiority over the countries in

the region and to get out of the way any Arab or Persian expert.
In 2016, al-Qaeda established an Islamic Emirate that included the port of

Mukalla, Yemen and 200 km of its neighbours coasts [1].

From Mukalla, which was established on the territory of a historical

ancient Emirates, al-Qaeda controlled the exit of the Gulf of Aden. This

allowed it to hold ships to ransom, collecting 2 million dollars worth of

taxes per day.

Despite opposition from the people living there, Al Qaeda imposed its

lifestyle by terror (just see the photo).

Finally, the Saudi-Emirates Coalition was able to chase Al-Qaeda away, and

freed the city.

So we thought until Associated Press revealed that there had been a secret

agreement negotiated with Al-Qaeda represented by Sheikh Abdullah

al-Maysari.

Following the conclusion of the secret pact, in just one night, 3,000 Al

Qaeda fighters left the city with their weapons, abandoning it to the

Emirati liberators. There was no fight at all.
The Pentagon has postponed the trial of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, whom it

alleges, masterminded the 9/11 attacks (2001). A new date has not been

set.

This is not the first time that the US military decided to postpone trying

the accused, they claim to be Khalid Sheikh Mohammed. He was kidnapped by a

US Commando in Pakistan on 1 March 2003, then subject to internment in a

secret prison in Jordan, and tortured for a length of time.

In 2009, it was announced that the accused would be subject to civil

proceedings. However the forum was then changed to a military tribunal. In

2016, the Obama administration managed to destroy, without any legal basis

for doing so, the evidence on which the defence was founded. After that,

the trial had been deferred several times and will probably never take

place.
New Airport Fire and Rescue Service Vehicles

The Airport Fire and Rescue Service was formed in October 2015, and the Government and the MoD agreed at the time to co-finance the fire vehicle and equipment replacement project on a 50/50 basis.

In late 2017 the vehicle specifications were drawn up and an EU Tender issued. Rosenbauer UK were awarded a contract to supply four Airfield Rescue and Firefighting Vehicles (Panthers) and Angloco Ltd UK would supply one Light Rescue Pump. Separately, Rock Motors will supply two Volkswagen Amarok Command and Operational Support Vehicles. All these vehicles are fitted with the latest Euro 6 engines and will replace the present MoD fleet once they are commissioned and become fully operational.

The training on the Panthers is underway since they are very different vehicles to the existing fleet and will entail a radical change of tactical strategies when tackling an aircraft fire incident. This change will considerably enhance the firefighting capability and bring the AFRS into the 21st Century, providing commonality with the mainstream aviation firefighting industry and future proofing for the next 15 to 20 years.

The training is expected to be completed by the end of August.

'This is a concerted and very comprehensive programme, which needs to be fully undertaken by all operational firefighting staff before being able to put these vehicles into operational service and be able to meet our mandated aviation regulatory requirements.'
Gibraltars Accessible Beaches

The summer season is now in full swing and Gibraltar's community is enjoying spending time at its various beaches.

Since 2012, these beaches have been improved to also make them accessible to people with disabilities and many facilities have been introduced so that everyone can enjoy the beach just as much. In addition this year, the Government has provided disability awareness training to all beach personnel.

'The beach improvements ensure that many people, who physically were unable to enjoy our beaches before are now able to do so with their families. The quality of life of many Gibraltarians has been improved. Needless to say, these improvements also make Gibraltar more accessible as a whole and tourists also make use of the facilities.'

This has has not gone unnoticed and the UK travel company, Enable Holidays, an award-winning disabled holiday specialist features Gibraltar as one of its accessible destinations. When compared to many other beaches throughout Europe, Gibraltar beaches by far offer more facilities than most. The accessibility features at our beaches include ramp accesses from the road to pergola units which provide direct access to the shore at the beaches via mobi-mats (synthetic walkways specially designed for the transit of amphibious chairs on the beach). These can be found at Eastern Beach, Catalan Bay and Western Beach. Furthermore, at Camp Bay, an accessible ramp leads to the shore and another ramp and wider steps are also available at the main swimming pool. Accessible toilets are available at Catalan Bay, Eastern Beach, Camp Bay, the Bathing Pavilion and Western Beach, with Changing Places also available at Eastern Beach, Camp Bay and the Bathing Pavilion. Changing Places offer the same facilities as Accessible Toilets but also provide extra equipment in the form of overhead hoist systems and height adjustable sized benches and extra space in the room.

The Department of Equality has very recently carried out Disability Language and Etiquette training to members of staff who work for the Department of the Environment at our beaches. Lifeguards, Beach Attendants, Toilet Attendants at all beaches, as well as officers from the Department of Environment were trained. The training was delivered by Jason Belilo, an Equality Officer from the Department of Equality. Jason was certified by Attitude is Everything (a UK Charity) after successfully completing his training last year. This training will no doubt improve the customer service offered by staff at beaches, especially for those people with disabilities and make it altogether a more enjoyable experience.

Minister for Equality, the Hon. Samantha Sacramento, MP, said: I am very pleased with the accessible facilities available at Gibraltars beaches, the facilities are second to none and we can also offer the beach goer the choice of a number of different accessible beaches. Beach culture is very important to us Gibraltarians and with the improvements we have made, I can say that the beach experience can now be offered to more Gibraltarians and tourists alike and this makes Gibraltar more accessible all round. I would like to thank each and every one who has been involved in making this project a reality and making our beaches some of the most accessible in Europe, we should be very proud of this.

The Minister for the Environment, the Hon. John Cortes, MP, said: We are working hard to ensure that our beaches are available for all the community to enjoy and are very proud of what we are achieving. We will continue to look at what further improvements we can introduce.
Photo: Paul Hebert/ABC

The conclusion of Becca Kufrins Bachelorette season weighed less on spectacles of human misery and more on happily-ever-afters. Thats probably for the best, isnt it? After two separate Bachelor and Bachelorette journeys, Becca finally found her reality-television love with Garrett Yrigoyen, accepting his proposal in the Maldives and sending the dejected runner-up, Blake Horstmann, packing for good. Becca and Garrett seem very lovey-dovey and ecstatic to usher their relationship into the public eye, but as with any finale involving heartbreak and drama, a handful of big revelations were bound to bubble up for Bachelor Nation to witness. Here are the six finale bombshells you definitely need to know.

Blake predicted his runner-up status

In a prescient talking-head interview after meeting Beccas family, Blake, sensing something was off from this Kufrin-clan gathering, predicted his ultimate fate. Im worried that something was off, its not good. I dont want to talk about fucking Garrett anymore. I dont want to. Maybe Im overthinking all of this, but usually my gut is right when it comes to this kind of stuff, its a curse, he said. Now I have to sit here and stew on it for 36 hours. Shes gonna pick Garrett. Later, after Becca officially rejected him, he added through tears: I fucking knew it.

For a long time, Becca thought shed pick Blake

Numerous times in the finale, Becca reiterated how she was confident, throughout the majority of her journey, that she would accept Blakes proposal and become his fiancee. (Its also safe to assume her family considered him, as opposed to Garrett, more of an equal partner.) However, the more time she spent with Garrett  whom she likened to her deceased father  the more her mind kept changing. You have been the most solid, constant relationship. But through all of that, too, because we were so constant, I think I was overlooking other relationships. Quite honestly, I pictured this moment with you standing here the entire time for so long. I think that we could be right and we could be partners, but theres just a better fit for us out there, she said upon rejecting Blakes proposal. I honestly didnt see this for the longest time. I was so sure. As for Blake, he handled his broken heart like a gentleman and wished Becca nothing but the best. Next Bachelor alert, anyone?

Arie secretly met Becca in the Maldives

When doing early press rounds for her Bachelorette season, Becca revealed that her very public Bachelor ex-fiance, Arie Luyendyk Jr., would appear in an upcoming episode. But at the finales conclusion, his appearance still hadnt surfaced. What gives? We now know that Arie and his third-act-twist fiancee, Lauren Burnham, flew to meet Becca in the Maldives at her and the shows request  but for reasons were not privy to, ABC decided to edit out their tropical sit-down. Its a conversation that unfortunately wont be shown but it was really positive for all of us, Arie wrote on Instagram after the finale aired. You can imagine this trip could have been very difficult for Lauren but she has supported and stood by me in all of this. I thank and love her everyday because of that. We wish Becca all the happiness in the world. As for Becca, she didnt utter Aries name once in the episode.

Garretts meme scandal made Becca worry 

Just hours after Beccas Bachelorette premiere, it came to light that Garrett had a history of liking offensive social-media posts, which included memes mocking transgender people, liberal women, and school-shooting survivors. Garrett previously apologized for those double-taps and likes, while Becca urged viewers to keep an open mind and not judge contestants so harshly, effectively tipping her hand that shed pick him in the end. (Becca is a vocal liberal who voted for Hillary Clinton.) Now that the couple could discuss this scandal royale openly, they admitted it caused a riff in their relationship.

Shes helped me through everything. Weve been honest and open and transparent with one another since the beginning, and when that all came out, we attacked it, Garrett said of Becca. When I was liking things, it was going against what she stands for, and that made it really hard on us as a couple. When we started talking about that, we got through that together and were growing and progressing and were moving forward.

Becca was more blunt about it: There has been struggles, and that was a major thing we had to talk about early on at the very beginning of our relationship. Luckily, I got to know him for who he is. On the show, we dont have phones or social media. I got to see who he is  his heart and soul. The Instagram situation, I dont condone that. I know he stands by his apology and he feels so bad for everyone he did offend. He didnt mean it.

 and Garrett thought hed lose Becca because of it

While Becca claims their problems never reached breakup potential, Garrett became seriously concerned that it may, indeed, end up that way because of his social-media behavior. I was very worried about it, that I might lose her from that. But I felt she knew me as a person and that I didnt stand behind those likes, and I was a better person than what I was presenting on my social media, he explained, adding how a constant amount of people reached out to his family and friends in an attempt to discover his true character. It made us stronger as a couple and were moving forward. It was tough, because it wasnt just affecting me, but it was affecting her, and that was hurting me the most.

This ethos was reiterated by Becca: Its been a constant conversation, and hes had to deal with really negative things being said about him  terrible things. I can only ask that people allow us to grow and learn from this.

Dont expect a wedding anytime soon

While wedding bells wont be ringing for awhile  we just want to be normal and be in public, Becca said  the lovebirds hope to solidify their home base within the next few months. We are moving in together, we dont exactly know where yet, Becca explained, saying theyll live for a short period of time in each others respective cities before making a final decision. (Minneapolis and Reno, currently, though I think we might come out to California for a couple of years.) Also, Becca wants a bunch of fur-babies, much to the chagrin of her boo: I would love four corgis, but Ill settle for one or two  to start with.
Photo: Paul Hebert/ABC

Obvious spoilers to follow.

We had a feeling this season of The Bachelorette spoiled itself by the very first week, but now we have the official rose confirmation.

Looking like a beautiful angel on a beachfront property in the Maldives, this seasons leading lady, Becca Kufrin, decided to reject Blake Horstmann and ultimately accept a proposal from Garrett Yrigoyen, a medical sales rep from Nevada, in the emotionally charged Bachelorette finale. (The tears, the pep talks, the slow dockside walking!) After letting Horstmann down gently and doing her best to explain the rationale  quite honestly, I pictured this moment with you standing here the entire time for so long  Yrigoyen monologued quite a lovely proposal before getting down on one knee:

From honking up the driveway in a minivan filled with orange slices and diapers, to fly-fishing in the backyard, I knew that you and I shared something very special with one-another. We were building our dream-home out of sand, talking about our kids, talking about a future. I knew that I loved you so much and I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you and wake up next to you and have you in my arms every single day in my life. I love you so much. Not just now, but forever. Youre my world.

And with that, Kufrin told her first-impression-rose suitor how much she loved him, too. Aw!

The couples engagement comes weeks after it was discovered, thanks to former Bachelor contestant Ashley Spivey, that Yrigoyen was a noted purveyor of racist and offensive memes on social media  liking memes that mocked transgender people and liberal women, among others. (Kufrin is a self-professed liberal who voted for Hillary Clinton and participated in the Womens March.) Yrigoyen later released a statement of apology, taking full responsibility for his social-media history. I have learned an extremely valuable lesson and am taking steps to grow, become more educated, and be a better version of myself, he wrote. I am not perfect, and I will never be anywhere close, but now I will always be more informed and aware of what I am liking and supporting, not just on Instagram, but in life. Kufrin publicly supported Yrigoyen after the news broke. Is it fair to judge someone based on who they follow, what they like? she said.

Congratulations, mazel, etcetera, to the happy couple.
Photo: Joyce Tenneson

When Kathleen Turner, standing in the Vulture reception area, introduces herself in her singular throaty rasp, the effect is almost comic  who else has a voice like that? This thing happens with restaurants, says Turner as we walk to a conference room. Ill call up and say, This is Kathleen Turner, and theyll hear me and say, Why yes it is.

For a time, that voice, and her charismatic blend of steel and sass, made Turner one of films most interesting and popular actresses. The now-64-year-old starred in an impressive string of 80s hits (Body Heat, Prizzis Honor, and Peggy Sue Got Married, among others, as well as The War of the Roses, Romancing the Stone, and The Jewel of the Nile, the latter trio all co-starring Michael Douglas). But by the mid-90s, as a result of a devastating combination of illness, addiction, and, she says, an unfair reputation for being hard to work with, her era of big Hollywood success was over. Since then, Turner, a blunt talker, has turned most of her formidable energy to theater, and also regularly conducts master classes for acting students across the country. Ive been acting professionally for 41 years, says Turner. I think my ability to maintain a career for that long has a little something to do with quality, dont you think? She teasingly arches an eyebrow. Maybe Im being pie-eyed.

I randomly caught Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? on TV the other night and it made me wonder if youd watched Elizabeth Taylors performance before you played Martha?

God, no. Quite the opposite. For a while I felt like half my life was making her wrongs right.

Sorry, Elizabeth Taylors?

Yes. Cat on a Hot Tin Roof  you ever listen to her voice? Its awful.

But youve got one of the all-time great voices. Maybe that makes you a tough critic.

No. She has a bad voice, badly used. In any case, people are after me all the time to do Sweet Bird of Youth, and Im like, Enough Taylor shit.

Maybe you dont like Elizabeth Taylors acting, but she was at least charismatic in Whos Afraid of Virginia Woolf? wasnt she?

I dont think she was very skilled. And Edward Albee disliked the film intensely. In the play, when George comes in he pours himself a drink and then nurses that drink the whole evening. The film got that completely wrong. Taylor and Richard Burton are drunk and screaming at each other the whole time. I heard somebody once say [about the film], I get this at home. Why would I go see it? But I was lucky that I got to do the play myself and show the humor in it for Gods sake. Luck has a big part in anyones career, yeah?

What else, aside from luck, has driven your career?

Rage.

What do you mean?

Im fuckin angry, man.

About what?

Everything.

Where does that anger come from?

Injustice in the world.

How does rage show up in your work?

In my cabaret show I use this passage from Molly Ivins: Beloveds, these are some bad, ugly, angry times. And I am so freaked out. Hatred has stolen the conversation. The poor are now voting against themselves. But politics is not about left or right. Its about up and down. The few screwing the many. She wrote that over ten years ago and its no less true today.

Is any part of the rage you feel related to how illness derailed your career?

Im too busy coping with disease to think much outside the day-to-day. For me its can I hold a pen? Can I stand up? Can I climb those stairs?

So you dont feel as if part of your prime was unfairly taken from you?

I suppose there was a feeling of loss. Rheumatoid arthritis hit in my late 30s  the last of my years in which Hollywood would consider me a sexually appealing leading lady. The hardest part was that so much of my confidence was based on my physicality. If I didnt have that, who was I?

What was the answer?

To fuckin get it back. You work with what you have, as best you can. Thats what Ive done.

How difficult was it to deal with the knowledge that some guys in Hollywood had arbitrarily decided you were no longer viable as a leading lady?

It took adjustment. You have to remember that my first big role was Body Heat, and after that I was a sexual target. I understood later, from Michael Douglas, that there was a competition between him and Jack Nicholson and Warren Beatty about who would get me first. None of them did, by the by.

How did learning about that competition make you feel?

I dont like being thought of as a trophy. Let me tell you, when Jack and I were shooting Prizzis Honor a bunch of us went to his place up on Mulholland [Drive]. Jack said, knowing Warrens interest in me, Why dont you call Warren and tell him I dont have a corkscrew. Why? Youll see how fast he gets here. There was an unspoken assumption that women were property to be claimed. Another time I was at a dinner party and there was an empty chair next to Jack. I sat down in it and had a delightful time. After a while  because I was shooting the next day  I said I had to leave and drove back to the Chateau Marmont. I get there and the phone rings. It was Jack: How could you do that to me? Do what? You were my date and you left! And I said, I was your date? No one informed me. Assumptions like that are why Ive never lived in Los Angeles. Every time I go to that city I feel insecure.

How was Nicholson to work with?

He was great. Partly thats to do with John Huston. He challenged Jack. He said to Jack that he always winked at the audience as if to say, Thats not what I mean. John challenged him to not do that, to not put a lie to his character, which can be very tempting for stars to do because you want audiences to like you. Avoiding that temptation is a great lesson.

When did you learn it?

Very early. My first Broadway show was Gemini in 78. I played this spoiled white girl whose boyfriend is struggling with whether or not hes gay. She cant handle that, and at the top of the second act there was a scene where shes saying how wrong it all is. I was not doing the scene well and I didnt know why. Then it hit me: Im afraid that the audience is going to think that Im like this character. I didnt want people to think that I was this stuck-up, privileged white girl. But theres the choice: Do you want the audience to like you or do you want to be a good actor? Thats an easy choice for me.

Do you have sympathy for actors who choose differently?

Certainly in terms of film, there is intense pressure to repeat successful characters. Ill give you an example, but you mustnt include her name. [Very famous Hollywood actress] has played the same role for 20 years. She even looks pretty much the same. Shes probably one of the richest women out there, but I would shoot myself if I were like that, only giving people what they expect.

There isnt really an identifiable Kathleen Turnertype character.

And that wasnt helpful to me in Hollywood. People would say, God, I love The Accidental Tourist. Oh, you also were in Undercover Blues? That was great! And Prizzis Honor? Shit, you were in that too. They never put my work together because I wasnt doing the same thing over and over, which, by the way, wasnt good for me financially.

Which actors are you excited about right now?

On the whole, Im very ignorant, but I like Emma Stone. And the stage actress Nina Arianda is incredible. Shes got the power, babe.

I have another question about actors and their choices: When you show up on set, like you did for Peggy Sue Got Married, and realize that Nicolas Cage has decided to play his part with such an unusual voice  that he was doing a thing  how did that affect how you calibrated your performance?

It was tough to not say, Cut it out. But it wasnt my job to say to another actor what he should or shouldnt do. So I went to [director] Francis [Ford Coppola]. I asked him, You approved this choice? It was very touchy. He [Nicolas Cage] was very difficult on set. But the director allowed what Nicolas wanted to do with his role, so I wasnt in a position to do much except play with what Id been given. If anything, it [Cages portrayal] only further illustrated my characters disillusionment with the past. The way I saw it was, yeah, he was that asshole.

Sorry, Nicolas Cage or his character?

Listen, I made it work, honey.

From a performance standpoint how much easier is it to act with someone when theres no interpersonal tension? Was working with Michael Douglas, whom you liked, easier than working with Burt Reynolds, whom you didnt? Or do your personal feelings for the other actor just not matter?

Working with Burt Reynolds was terrible. The first day Burt came in he made me cry. He said something about not taking second place to a woman. His behavior was shocking. It never occurred to me that I wasnt someones equal. I left the room sobbing. I called my husband and said, I dont know what to do. He said, You just do the job. It got to be very hostile because the crew began taking sides. But as for the performance, I was able to put the negativity aside. Im not convinced Burt was.

Is there anyone from your cohort of film actresses  Im thinking of women like Sigourney Weaver, Debra Winger, or Meryl Streep  whose trajectory youve found particularly inspiring or interesting?

It seems to me that weve all made good lives for ourselves. Surely thats as important as what credits we all have. I will say that I miss Meryl onstage. I remember seeing her in The Taming of the Shrew many years ago. She charged out on stage swinging a footstool. I was like, Oh yeah!  I loved the energy of it. I wish she would do more stage work. But weve all matured into interesting women, yeah? Thats the important thing. Im very interested in womens growth as people. You know, I work with an organization called Young Elected Officials, and I teach women how not to compromise and I work with them on their self-presentation. I tell them, If you say like one more time I will kick you!

Did you ever kick a co-star?

No. I slapped one.

Who?

He bit me.

Go on.

I was doing a play  there was a scene where another actor was all over my character and fuckin bit me, and I was like, whack! Maybe he didnt mean to, but he was taking things a little far.

Do you believe there are better roles for women in theater than in film?

The roles for mature women onstage are a thousand times better than anything written in film. The screen roles are usually stereotypes: the evil stepmother, the bitter spinster. Whereas in theater theres Martha or Mother Courage  I could name many characters Id love to do. Thats why, knowing where my career could grow as I got less desirable for the camera, I focused on theater. I remember I got sent a screenplay once where the character was described as 37 but still attractive. That pissed me off. Americans are so screwed up about sex.

This is a sort of left-field question, but President Trump seems like someone you wouldve bumped into at a party in New York in the 80s. Have you ever met him?

Yes. Yuck. He has this gross handshake.

Whats he do?

He goes to shake your hand and with his index finger kind of rubs the inside of your wrist. Hes trying to do some kind of seductive intimacy move. You pull your hand away and go yuck.

Thank you for indulging the question. Anyway, theres a part in your autobiography where you talk about how playing different roles allows you to learn about different parts of yourself. What do you learn when you do something like your cabaret show, where youre not playing a character?

Even though Im not playing a character, I am playing a version of myself. And there are basic qualities I want to convey: the sense of loving people, of loving to be onstage, of loving to communicate. Ive always felt that people had affection for me and my work, and doing the cabaret shows has helped me understand why.

And whats the reason?

Im a really nice person.

Didnt Eileen Atkins call you a nightmare? What was that about?

Its two-sided. Eileen could be extremely difficult. I spoke to Maggie Smith about my problems with Eileen and Maggie said, It wasnt you. But at the time we were working on Indiscretions, Eileen was soon to be diagnosed with cancer. She probably knew there was something wrong with her and was frightened. Also at that time I was on a new medication that was making me fuzzy, and for the first time in my life I couldnt retain the script perfectly. I would find myself searching for words. Eileen found this extremely unprofessional. I can understand that. It was not intentional on my part. I was in a great deal of pain  I dont know how I got through it. One of the areas that was most painful was my right wrist. Just touching it would make me want to scream. Its hard to understand the level of pain that this disease [rheumatoid arthritis] brings. In any case, I would say to the cast on some nights, Tonight is really bad. Please avoid this wrist. And on those nights when Eileen particularly disapproved of me, during a scene where I was supposed to be dead she would 

Oh no.

Sit right on my wrist. I would just lie there, trying not to gasp. Oh, it was a very confusing time. I didnt know that it was the medication that was keeping me fuzzy. But, you know, even that  I dont think anyones attitude toward me was coming from a cynical place.

You didnt think any of the press about your being difficult or your drinking or your illness was cynical?

The difficult thing was pure gender crap. If a man comes on set and says, Heres how I see this being done, people go, Hes decisive. If a woman does it, they say, Oh, fuck. There she goes.

Whats an example of that happening to you?

Heres one that was very nicely resolved with Francis [Ford Coppola]: Sometimes at night I dream the scene Im going to be doing the next day, and with Peggy Sue I had dreamed a scene where my character was coming down the stairs in the old house and meets her mother. In my dream the camera was there. When I got on set, the camera was here. I was disoriented. I said to Francis, The cameras supposed to be over there  because thats how Id dreamed it  and he went, No, its not. I said, Im telling you it should be over there. He goes, Well, its over here. So we made a deal.

What was the deal?

He said that if I gave him as many takes as he wanted from where he had set the camera, he would give me two takes from where I wanted the camera. And guess what happened?

The take he used was from your spot?

Damn right.

But what about when your career took a dip in the 90s? You dont think the way that was covered by journalists was coming from a cynical place? They were pretty mean to you.

Well, that had so much to do with the rheumatoid arthritis. At that time there was very little public knowledge about autoimmune diseases, so my illness was a source of bad mystery  certainly compared to what was going on with, oh, for example Robert Downey Jr.

I dont quite follow the comparison.

Someone like him could show up on set and be drunk or misbehave in some way, but he would still get hired because producers figured they could control that kind of behavior. But if you say, I have a mysterious illness and I dont know if Ill be able to walk tomorrow  youre not getting hired. And the only real effective treatment back then was massive doses of steroids, which has massive side effects. If I went to pick up a bottle, for example, I couldnt grip it, and people would assume I was inebriated.

At what point did drinking become a real problem and not just a falsely perceived one?

In truth, I did have a period when I found that alcohol was a great painkiller. For some reason, which I do not understand, I thought I could control the pain of my illness better with alcohol than I could with pain medication. I didnt want to take OxyContin and Percocet. I thought that would be an immediate path to addiction; I never thought alcohol would. Then I did, of course, abuse it [alcohol]. It never got in the way of the work but, oh, on my time off, just to kill the fucking pain, drinking was great.

Its under control now?

Yes. Now its sharing a glass of wine at the end of a show or something  an occasional pleasure.

You know, when I went back and watched The War of the Roses, it was amazing to be reminded how savage and perverse that movie is. And it was a hit. Was Hollywood making riskier movies in the 80s?

You know, they tried to neuter The War of the Roses. The Fox suits came in toward the end of the filming and said, Kathleen and Michael, you cant die. They wanted us to film an ending where the chandelier falls, our characters are on the ground, and then were loaded into two ambulances that pull away in different directions  to leave open the possibility that our characters were alive. Come on. The studio was up against me and Michael [Douglas] and Danny [DeVito]. We just told them we wouldnt shoot the ending they wanted.

But are mainstream Hollywood films less sophisticated than when you were starring in them?

Gosh, the last film I went to, every trailer was a Marvel comic movie or a shoot-em-up. It was all guns and superheroes. I just thought, Why isnt someone doing something different? I would think that whoever could offer an alternative would make a killing. I imagine thats what television does so well now.

Youve done a handful of television. To pick one show you guest-starred on: What stands out about your experience on Friends?

Ill be quite honest, which is my wont: I didnt feel very welcomed by the cast. I remember I was wearing this difficult sequined gown  and my high heels were absolutely killing me. I found it odd that none of the actors thought to offer me a seat. Finally it was one of the older crew members that said, Get Miss Turner a chair. The Friends actors were such a clique  but I dont think my experience with them was unique. I think it was simply that they were such a tight little group that nobody from the outside mattered.

How did you find them as actors and actresses?

I wont comment on that.

Thats where you draw a line?

[Laughs.] Maybe if Id had months to work with them, Id be in a better position to evaluate their skill. But I could only judge based on the period I worked on the show, which wasnt long. I do respect the camaraderie they had. You can see camaraderie on the screen. When I did Body Heat with Larry Kasdan and Bill Hurt, we rehearsed significantly before shooting and there was a familiarity before the camera rolled. You see it in the film.

I read in your memoir that William Hurt was into magic mushrooms. Did he ever try and get you to take them with him?

No, I never tried any of those things that he liked. Bill can be very odd.

How so?

I remember one night while we were shooting Body Heat we were sitting around, and for some reason he wanted to talk about how wed each like to die. I dont remember what my answer was, but he said he wanted to be sucked up into a jet engine. You would find yourself in that kind of discussion with Bill. Then when we did The Accidental Tourist, Bill was sober, so there were fewer discussions like that. God, you did not want to get Bill talking too much.

Just to go back to working with Michael Douglas. You did three movies with him. How quickly was it apparent that you played off each other so well? Is that something you realize as its happening or are you only aware of it later, when you see it onscreen?

Well, you cant tell on the first day. With Michael, and Danny [DeVito], too, I think they saw me as one of the guys, you know? I was willing to throw myself down mountainsides. And when we did the sequel, Jewel of the Nile, the sense of coming back together was so cool. It was nice to be back with friends.

Were you surprised or hurt at the way Michael leaned on you to do that movie?

That was a bad blowup. I had signed a contract to do a sequel [to Romancing the Stone] but the script for it [The Jewel of the Nile] was terrible. What had happened was that Romancing was so successful that Diane [Thomas], who wrote the original script, evidently asked Michael for what he felt was a ridiculous sum to work on the sequel. So instead, he went with these two guys and what they came up with was terrible, formulaic, sentimental. Anyway, I said no. Then I found out I was being sued for $25 million [for breach of contract]. My position was that, yes, I signed up for a sequel but I didnt sign up to compromise the quality of my work. Eventually Michael and I talked.

Howd that go?

He said, What would it take for you to do this film? I wanted Diane back, or at least to give input. And Michael did go to her for some alterations. But ultimately I read the script on a plane to Morocco, where the film was shooting, and I was furious. It didnt have what Michael said itd have. When I got to the hotel in Fez, Michael and I sat down on the floor with three versions of the script. We were trading pages to get a script that was acceptable to both of us. It was, Ill do this if youll do that. It was frustrating. But I do have to say, when I got sick Danny and Michael called and said, If you need anything, kid  So theyre true friends.

Have you seen a change in the kind of acting popular in Hollywood over the years? Or the kind of acting that appeals to students in your master classes?

I have a confession to make.

Yes?

I never really studied acting. People talk about these different techniques  Meisner, all this stuff. I dont know what theyre talking about most of the time. My acting school was acting. One year, when I was at Southwest Missouri State University, there were only 14 nights out of an entire year that I was not in rehearsal or in performance. I just did it. In fact, the master classes I do, my course is called Practical Acting. You shut up and do it.

What do you think about the approach of actors like Dustin Hoffman or Daniel Day-Lewis, who famously do all this intense in-character preparation in order to play a role?

In Crimes of Passion I was playing a designer by day, $50 whore on Hollywood Boulevard by night. Do you think I was going to hang out with whores on Hollywood Boulevard and find out what the fuck that was like? I have an imagination, you know. My belief is that all the information I need is in the script. And if its not, then its not a good enough script.

How often do you get recognized for your voice?

More often than by my looks. Ill be on the subway and I keep my mouth shut, because if Im silent, Im just another person. If I speak, heads turn in my direction.

How much of that recognition is due to Jessica Rabbit?

I dont know. I think my voice has taken on a persona of its own. It was always low and its only gotten lower. But my voice is an asset. I was not born to be an ingenue. I played one once  it was Nina in The Seagull  and I was terrible. Im rather thrilled with my voice.

At this point in your life and career, what would be a dream role for you?

I have a very exciting idea about how to do Lear. Usually when women play Lear, the daughters are rewritten to be sons. Id keep them as women. When Lear says to Goneril, May your womb dry up  you understand what I mean, yeah?

Its a very different line if delivered by a mother to her daughter.

Devastating! May your womb dry up from a man? So what? From a mother? My God. Theres a power to the relationships between women that we dont examine as much as we should.

Youd referred to your 50s as your fuck it 50s.

The fuck you 50s. I did what I wanted.

How do your 60s feel?

Sixty freaked me out. When I turned 60, I was doing a show on the West End with Ian McDiarmid. I thought, Im turning 60. I deserve a good ring. And I went out and I bought myself this ring that says, La vita e un dono: life is a gift. Yes, 60 felt different. My mother  I was back in Missouri visiting her and she turned to me and said, I have a 60-year-old daughter. I was like, Holy shit. Suddenly I was a 60-year-old daughter. It was strange.

In a good way?

In an interesting way. Im a tree now where the trunk is strong enough, and the roots are deep enough, that I can branch out in any direction: teaching, acting, my cabaret endeavor. And Im getting stronger all the time. So lets find out what I can do.

This interview was edited and condensed from two conversations.

Hair and makeup by Heather Schnell for Exclusive Artists using Chantecaille and Oribe Haircare.

*A version of this article appears in the August 20, 2018, issue of New York Magazine. Subscribe Now!
Photo: HBO

Shift consciousness acts as a tagline and guiding principle for artist and creator Terence Nances resplendent, bracing new HBO series Random Acts of Flyness. This principle bristles through every facet of the series as Nance and his collaborators flutter through disparate visual forms and tones  stop-motion animation, colorful cartoons, glossy faux infomercials starring Jon Hamm, Afro-surrealism, trippy absurdism, and achingly humane realism  in order to interrogate modern blackness. Yet by the end of its first episode, I was left dazzled but strangely unaffected by its heady splendor. Ultimately, I couldnt help but ask, whose consciousness is Random Acts of Flyness trying to shift?

It cant be the culturally voracious young black folks that the show seemingly represents. We understand the crushing effects of white supremacy and the casual violence that accompanies being black in America. It also isnt necessarily pushing any conversation about blackness forward (except for one important instance), but maybe it shouldnt have to bear that burden, even as it considers a host of complex subjects ranging from police brutality to sexual fluidity. While Random Acts of Flyness lacks emotional nuance, it is still a rich, endlessly curious work that uses its variety-show model with cunning wit and bravado to constantly rewrite its own parameters.

The best way I can describe Random Acts of Flyness is that it has an Adult Swim posture with HBO gloss. Its boldy weird, which is most evident in its refusal to adhere to any one aesthetic model. Its only true through line is an ongoing segment in which Nance, seen in the iPhone-esque vertical frame thats captured endless examples of police brutality, rides on his bike only to be stopped by an older white cop. Things get violent. But Nance defies the narrative wed expect, both from how these police confrontations play out in real life and the verisimilitude of how the story is presented visually: His character flies away from the cop, into the open air and away from any potential death. I couldnt figure out what to make of this. Is it meant to substitute levity and hope for the anger that comes from watching real-life counterparts of this video? Is it meant to be a reprieve from the inherited trauma of white brutality and state-sanctioned violence that black people face? That confusion marks my nagging issue with the show: Its entertaining and thrilling, but it lacks a strong enough point of view to back up its intellectual rigor and deft curiosity. Choosing to blend so many forms and tonal shifts into a half-hour variety show allows Nance to approach many subjects in startling ways, but without an emotional backbone, the show can feel as scattered as it does entertaining.

The most successful segment in the first episode  bluntly titled What Are Your Thoughts on Raising Free Black Children?  comes at the very end, when Nance and compatriot Doreen interview a young bisexual black man named Yeleen. Yeleen talks about his open relationship with his supportive girlfriend, the fluidity of his presentation, and the judgment he received on a date when wore a dress instead of more masc presentation. This highly personal conversation interweaves bright cartoon drawings, stop-motion animation with clay-like figures, and a more traditional studio set complete with lush foliage. Its joyful, buoyant, and, most important, personal in a way the rest of the episode doesnt quite achieve. Yeleens interview doesnt feel like a black explainer for a white audience, nor a weird-for-weirds-sake story. Its a beautifully distinctive segment that complements the story being told, unlike other parts of the episode where visual ingenuity can obscure the more engaging arguments and muddy nuanced emotional dynamics.

Contrast that with the episodes most glossy and conventional segment, in which Jon Hamm, playing himself in full Don Draper mode, hawks a strange, black balm that is meant to rid people of harmful white thoughts, which come in the form of thunderous CGI clouds overhead. When Hamm stops filming the commercial to complain to the black director that he isnt white white, there is definitely humor to be found. You are here because the people who call themselves white, those victims, they trust you and that beautiful beige face of yours, the director tells him. Its an abrasive, self-aware comment about whiteness and white people  especially as it calls attention to who Random Acts of Flyness is designed for, and whether the show deserves that specific burden  but it feels too obvious and superficial in its arguments to leave a lasting impact.

The Everybody Dies! segment is the most disturbing and infuriating of the first episodes offerings. In it, an older black woman named Ripa the Reaper (Tonya Pinkins) takes the form of death itself on a strange, grainy childrens show. Decked in all black, she doesnt relish her job but is burdened by it as she interacts with young children before ushering them behind a door labeled death. Swerving from sugared nursery rhymes to weeping, Rita seemingly represents the role of the black mother who brings children into the world and must immediately reckon with how violence seeps into their lives. But Pinkinss performance feels miscalculated  performative with emotional turns so sharp they scan as cartoonish  which works against the challenging connections being made about black motherhood and black death. This segment has the same issue plaguing much of Random Acts of Flyness: Its highly attuned to wide-ranging stylistic experimentation, but lacks the necessary emotional heft and nuance to tackle such topics like the weight of bringing black children into a world that is hostile toward them.

More broadly, this segment puts Random Acts of Flyness along an arc that includes recent works like Atlanta, Sorry to Bother You, and even Get Out to a certain degree. Each braids Afro-Surrealism into its approach to argue that horror is inherent to the black experience. Yet Random Acts of Flyness feels the most unique when it tips toward exuberance rather than detailing the everyday potential for violence that black people face. Even then, the series feels half-formed, too emotionally thin and intellectually blunt to reach the potential it demonstrates. To do so, Nance and his collaborators will have to figure out more to say and, most important, how they want their audience to feel about it.
Trace Lysette. Photo: Valerie Macon/AFP/Getty Images

Of all the men emerging from the shadows of #MeToo allegations, Jeffrey Tambor has remained relatively unscathed. The actor, who played a transgender woman on Amazons Transparent, was fired from the show in February after former assistant Van Barnes and co-star Trace Lysette  both trans women  accused him of sexual harassment.

Nevertheless, Tambor returned to the set of Arrested Development for Netflixs fifth season of the show; on a press tour to promote it, he participated in a New York Times interview that revealed his history of verbal abuse toward co-star Jessica Walter on set. And yet, his male co-stars relentlessly defended him.

Why has Tambor escaped the public vitriol designated for Harvey Weinstein, Matt Lauer, et al.? In a Varietys roundtable of transgender actors, Lysette and Jen Richards, an activist and actor who has appeared on Caitlyn Jenners I Am Cait, discussed. According to Richards, its because his accusers were primarily trans women.

When asked whether she is surprised that Tambor is still getting roles, Lysette said:

No, because were trans. Im used to people not wanting to believe us and being at the bottom of the totem pole. So our word doesnt carry weight the same way.

Richards commended Lysette for her extraordinary bravery in speaking out against Tambor. The actresses, who were joined by another Transparent star, Alexandra Billings, as well as Laverne Cox, Chaz Bono, and Brian Michael, also discussed the shifting tides of trans representation in media, particularly with Ryan Murphys new FX show Pose.

When Lysette and Billings were asked whether theyll be on Transparents upcoming fifth season, sans-Tambor, Billings replied, Youre damn right we are.
Tuesday marks the final special election before November, and a reliably Republican seat is once again at risk of switching parties.

Republican state Sen. Troy Balderson is fighting to maintain his party's three-decade hold on the Ohio 12th District, which spans north and east of Columbus.

President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence have campaigned there in an effort to get Republicans to vote for Balderson and tamp down Democrat Danny O'Connor's momentum. The candidates will square off again in the fall, but a loss for Republicans will serve as a major psychological blow ahead of the critical midterm elections.

The implications of this race, along with critical contests in Michigan, Missouri, Kansas and Washington state, will give a temperature of voters across the country that hasn't occurred since the last major multi-state primary in June.

What we'll learn tonight

IS THIS A SIGN OF A BLUE WAVE? If O'Connor prevails, it will be a strong indicator that Democrats can win in areas that have long eluded them. With only 23 seats needed to take back the majority in the House, a win in this Columbus-area district will put that in greater reach for them (plus the number will tick down to 22). If Balderson wins the final vote, Democrats will point to the margin to show gains. Former Rep. Pat Tiberi won the district with a margin of about 37 percentage points in 2016. A loss within a close margin less than two years after a strong victory for the GOP will still be a big talking point for Democrats.

HOW STRONG IS THE TRUMP BUMP? President Donald Trump's endorsement in Republican primaries has given last-minute boosts to candidates like Katie Arrington in South Carolina. His support for John James in Michigan and Kris Kobach in Kansas could help bring them over the line in their primaries tonight.

But will Trump's backing be enough to take Balderson over the finish line despite Democratic enthusiasm for O'Connor? The race will say a lot about the President's impact on general election match-ups in November.

A.O.C. ALL OVER AGAIN? Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is barnstorming for progressives across the country after her unexpected primary victory over House Democratic Caucus Chair Joe Crowley in New York. She's campaigned for James Thompson in Kansas and Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan, but can she help outsider candidates in areas that aren't liberal strongholds?

What to watch tonight

OHIO-12 SPECIAL ELECTION (polls close 7:30 p.m. ET): Like many races this year, this has come down to turning out the base. Trump stumped here on Saturday to turn out his base (he won the district with 52% in 2016). O'Connor will need Democrats to turn out in droves, combined with some flips from Independents and Republicans. A mid-August race with a potential for low turnout could be the right mix for Democrats. They are hoping to replicate Conor Lamb's impressive victory in Pennsylvania earlier this year, rather than Hiral Tipernini's close but ultimate loss in Arizona. Like the Arizona special election, both candidates will face off again in November.

KANSAS (all polls closed by 9 p.m. ET): Kris Kobach, the conservative secretary of state who served on the President's voter integrity commission, has been tight in the polls in the race for governor, but Trump's last-minute support of him on Monday could shake up the race. GOP Gov. Jeff Colyer is competing for a full term after the appointment of unpopular Gov. Sam Brownback to the State Department. Brownback's deep budget cuts to the state have been unpopular, leaving Republicans worried they may lose the seat in November. Kobach's staunch conservative views may not play as well in the general election as they might normally. For Democrats, Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez came to the ruby red state for Brent Welders, which could upend a race that Democrats think they can flip with candidate Sharice Davids. If Welders wins, Democrats worry he won't have enough broad support to beat GOP Rep. Kevin Yoder.

MICHIGAN (polls close 9 p.m. ET): The Democratic race for the open governor's seat once again pits a Sanders progressive outsider against a well-known Democratic leader. Former state Senate Majority Leader Gretchen Whitmer has tried to boost her liberal bona fides with her experience, focusing her campaign on her work to expand Medicaid in the state. She's leading in the polls, but it was the Wolverine State that gave Sanders an unexpected win during the 2016 primaries. Abdul El-Sayed, whom Sanders has campaigned hard for, is hoping to bring those voters out again. If he wins the primary and wins in November, he would be the nation's first Muslim governor. On the Republican side, John James -- an African-American Iraq War vet -- got a boost from the President that could put him over the top and shake up the Senate race against three-term Sen. Debbie Stabenow. Stabenow is expected to win in the fall, but James could prove to be a formidable foe.

MISSOURI (polls close at 8 p.m. ET): Tonight's primary will kick off one of the most strongly contested Senate races of the year. State Attorney General Josh Hawley is widely expected to win the Republican primary, setting him up to take on two-term Sen. Claire McCaskill. McCaskill has won by facing deeply flawed candidates in her previous elections, but Republicans are hoping this time that Hawley can avoid past mistakes. In a state Trump won by almost 20 points, you can expect to see him continuing to campaign hard here for Hawley (and for more comparisons between McCaskill and Hillary Clinton). Keep a lookout in the 1st District. Democratic Rep. Lacy Clay has faced criticism from the left, and though he's expected to win the primary against nurse and activist Cori Bush, there is potential for another Crowley-type loss in the Show Me State.

WASHINGTON (polls close at 11 p.m. ET) -- Washington state could be fertile ground for Democrats to take the majority back in Congress. The retirement of GOP Rep. David Reichert in the 8th District has given them hope in the Seattle suburbs and beyond for another seat in the House. Democrats in the state openly admit that losing here to perennial Republican candidate Dino Rossi (assuming he advances as expected in the open primary) would be embarrassing for the party. The real piece de resistance in Washington (and for Democrats overall) could come in the 5th District, where House GOP Conference Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers will most likely face a tough fight against former WSU Chancellor Lisa Brown. Polls are tightening in the race, giving Democrats hope they can take out the number four Republican in the House.
On Saturday, President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela was giving a speech in Caracas when two armed drones exploded nearby -- one detonating in the air and another inside an apartment building, authorities said.

President Maduro blamed far-right political opponents for what he called an attempted assassination. Six people have been arrested.

Aircraft Aviation and aerospace industry Business and industry sectors Business, economy and trade Continents and regions International relations and national security Military Military aircraft Military operations National security North America Terrorism Terrorism and counter-terrorism Terrorist attacks The Americas United States Unmanned aircraft Unmanned military aircraft Unrest, conflicts and war

The apparent attack raises the question: Could a drone assassination work? This would certainly change the way governments handle security for heads of state in public events. It also has implications for the security of overseas military bases and embassies.

The global proliferation of drones

New America tracks the proliferation of armed drones in a "World of Drones" database. Ten countries are known to have used drones in combat.

The United States was the first to use armed drones after the 9/11 attacks. Since then, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Nigeria, Pakistan, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom have all used armed drones in combat.

It was President Barack Obama who dramatically increased the use of armed drones against suspected terrorists in countries that the United States is not at war with, such as Libya, Pakistan, Somalia and Yemen.

A number of countries have used drones to assassinate their own citizens. Both the United States and the United Kingdom have conducted strikes against their own citizens overseas, while Israel has done so in the Palestinian territories. Countries such as Nigeria, Turkey, Pakistan, and Iraq have conducted drone strikes within their own borders.

Another 19 countries have armed drones but have not used them in combat.

Several terrorist and rebel groups have also used drones both for surveillance and to carry out attacks, including ISIS, Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Lebanese group Hezbollah was the first nonstate actor to use military-grade drones for surveillance, and has also used armed drones in Syria.

The Palestinian group Hamas has also acquired military-grade unmanned aircrafts, while ISIS has created improvised weapons by attaching explosives to over-the-counter drone models. The Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have used unmanned vessels to attack Saudi Arabian ships.

Which countries produce armed drones?

Because of human rights concerns, until this year the United States sold its armed drones only to close allies, such as Britain, France and Italy.

This has helped enable China to become a top armed drone supplier. Israel is another leading exporter of armed drones.

China is not a party of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), which was created to limit the proliferation of missiles, missile technology, and other weapons of mass destruction. Because China has not ratified this agreement, it does not have as many restrictions for its exports, thus Chinese drone sales have boomed.

In April, the Trump administration announced a new policy to allow the sale of armed drones to more countries.

President Donald Trump said that this new policy was meant to boost sales for the American defense industry. But it will also likely mean that regulators give less scrutiny to the risk of buyers committing human rights abuses with these weapons.

The tipping point

The rapid proliferation of armed drones poses novel questions for national security.

The Chinese are testing "swarms" of drones working together powered by artificial intelligence. This kind of technology will help to reshape conventional warfare between states.

At the same time, as truck and car bombs reshaped terrorism in the 20th century, armed, crude drones in the hands of terrorist groups and even lone actors are likely to reshape terrorism in the 21st century.
The WAAY 31 I-Team spent the past four days asking why a grand jury indicted a police officer for murder when his own peers said he did nothing wrong. Monday, a judge in the states case against Huntsville Police Officer William darby issued a gag order. That means no one involved can talk about it.

WAAY 31 talked to Bruce Gardner. Hes a former prosecutor who sat in on the police review board for several years.

"My experience once the review board convened we took no further action. We didn't indict anyone or anything like that," Gardner said.

Gardner told us he worked for the district attorney's office in the 1980's and he sat in on about a dozen review sessions.

"It's geared up to make a finding that the officer acted responsibly," he said. "It's kind of the fox is watching the hen house kind of thing. When you talk about law enforcement officers watching other law enforcement officers and what they get into. Legal or otherwise," he added.

Gardner admitted it's been awhile since he was in one of the board's sessions, but the premise remains the same. He can only question whats on body camera video that shows officer William Darby kill Jeffrey Parker in April. The City wont release it.

"There must be some extraordinary film footage that none of us have seen yet to see what this is all about," he said.

Monday, WAAY 31 requested Officer William Darby's personnel file from the City Attorney.

State law requires agencies make all public employees records open for review, but Huntsvilles Assistant City Attorney Eddie Blair refuses to release them. Blair denied our request to see Darbys Internal Affairs review because its connected to a pending criminal matter. Then claimed Darbys personnel file is investigative in nature and those documents are not considered public record."

We asked Gardner if he thought the request was rightfully denied.

"I think it should be disclosed. Okay. I could make a compelling argument that some of that is public record. If an officer has been reprimanded and it may somehow relate to what's going on with the particular case. Whoever wants it will succeed to getting access to whatever it is. I think it should be available now. I don't know why they're hiding behind that," he added.

We've asked the City Assistant Attorney to explain what was investigative in nature and how it related to a criminal matter. We haven't heard back from him.
NASCAR's CEO faces charges for his need for speed.

Bryan France is taking a leave of absence after he was arrested and charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated and possession of a controlled substance. Police say France was pulled over after failing to stop at a stop sign. During the stop, officers found him to be in possession of oxycodone pills and determined he was in an intoxicated condition.

In a statement today, France appologized for the incident.

"I apologize to our fans, our industry and my family for the impact of my actions last night," France said. "Effective immediately, I will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from my position to focus on my personal affairs."

This isn't the first time France got into trouble behind the wheel. In 2006, a police report states he crashed a car into a tree outside a restaurant parking lot in Daytona Beach, Florida.

France is the grandson of NASCAR's founder and was named its chairman of the board and CEO in September 2003.

Jim France, who is NASCAR Vice Chairman, Executive Vice President and Brian France's uncle, has assumed the role of interim chairman and CEO, the organization said.
We've been telling you about heavy rain heading toward the Tennessee Valley for Wednesday. That forecast is still on track. The spotty showers and thunderstorms on Monday and Tuesday were just a start of the increasing moisture. The biggest rain is on the way.

Spotty showers and a few heavy thunderstorms will track through the Tennessee Valley on our Tuesday evening. Most of us in the Valley will stay dry, but those of us who get rain can get heavy bursts of rain. Slippery roads and limited visibility will make for a slow evening drive in spots. The chance for rain comes to an end by 6-7 PM.

Our next weather maker was dumping heavy rain over parts of Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. That storm system will move into the Tennessee Valley on Wednesday, bringing rain in waves. It can start as early as 10 AM to noon, with spotty showers possibly preceding the main wave of rain. The intial wave of rain will move through with some isolated 40-50 mph wind gusts. The Shoals gets the start of the storms between 10 AM and noon. The leading line of heavy rain and gusty winds will cross I-65 and track into Huntsville and Madison around 11 AM to 1 PM, then into Sand Mountain between noon and 2 PM.

A break in the rain will work west to east from noon to 3 PM. That could mean dry period for the evening drive, though some rain spots are still possible. Another wave of rain will track from west to east across the Valley from around 8 PM through midnight.

Rainfall amounts will average a half-inch to an inch with locally higher amounts possibly up to as high as two inches. A stray stronger storm can produce 40-50 mph wind gusts, but the environment does not strongly favor severe thunderstorms. Localized street flooding is possible. Slippery roads and limited visibility can mean difficult driving conditions at times.
Three teenagers in New Jersey were arrested after police said they intentionally set fire to a playground specially designed for students with special needs, the Associated Press reported. It is estimated the fire caused $100,000 dollars in damage.



The three teens - two of whom are 14, one is 15 - were arrested two days after the fire. Police didn't release the exact charges against them, citing an ongoing investigation.
By West Kentucky Star Staff Aug. 07, 2018 | 07:34 AM | PADUCAH

The McCracken County Public Library has acquired a new online resource that will make it possible for you to learn computer programming, hone your photography skills and get tips on writing your resume all from the comfort of your home.

Lynda.com is a website that offers more than 3,000 courses and over 130,000 videos that cover topics like web design, business skills and media production. The service typically charges users a subscription fee of at least $19.99 month, but starting now McCracken County Public Library cardholders can access all of Lyndas content for free.

Learning and discovery are a core part of our librarys mission, and we are thrilled to bring to our patrons this premier online learning platform, said Library Director Susan Baier, With Lynda.com businesses can provide employee training, teachers can acquire professional development, hobbyists can hone their skills and entrepreneurs can learn how to take their business to new heights. We are pleased to connect our patrons to high quality content that gives them the skills needed to pursue their personal interests and professional goals.

Patrons can get started with Lynda by logging in through the librarys website and creating an account with their library card number and a password of their choosing. Once an account is created, patrons can watch any video in the Lynda library, create playlists, download courses and bookmark pages. Library cardholders can access Lynda at the library, on their personal computer or on their mobile device via the Lynda app.

Lynda.coms courses are taught by certified instructors and professionals. They are more in-depth and have a higher production value than many tutorials on YouTube. The website is owned by LinkedIn.

To start learning with Lynda.com as a McCracken County Public Library cardholder, visit https://www.mclib.net/lynda and select, Create a Profile.

For more information about Lynda or for assistance with creating and using your account, contact the library at (270)-442-2510 extension 119 or email questions@mclib.net.
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By West Kentucky Star Staff

Aug. 06, 2018 | CAYCE

By West Kentucky Star Staff Aug. 06, 2018 | 08:25 AM | CAYCE

A woman reported missing Monday has been found dead.



The Fulton County Sheriff's department says deputies, with help from the Fulton County Rescue Squad and air support, found the body of 59-year-old Jeanna Roberts. She was found in a corn field east of her home.



The Sheriff's Department says foul play is not suspected in the woman's death, but her body is being sent to the State Medical Examiner's office in Madisonville for an autopsy.



Roberts had last been seen Sunday evening at her home and had several medical conditions.





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Authorities in Fulton County are searching for a missing Cayce woman.



The Fulton County Sheriff's Office said 59-year-old Jeanna Roberts was last seen at her home on Sunday between 6-8 p.m.



Deputies said Roberts suffers from several medical conditions, and left without her medication. She also has difficulty speaking.



Roberts is 5'5" tall, and has gray hair and blue eyes. The Sheriff's Office is asking anyone who knows where she might be to contact them at 270-236-2545.
LEONARD SCHALOW BACK IN LOCAL COURT ON LONG LIST OF CHARGES

GOING TO TRIAL IN NOVEMBER

Some 20 new felony charges against a Hendersonville man whose attempted first-degree murder conviction in the near-fatal beating of his wife was dismissed in 2016 will move forward after a judge threw out the defenses motion to have the new charges dismissed.

Leonard Schalow was in Superior Court this week on assault and child abuse charges.

In a court order filed Tuesday morning, Superior Court Judge W. Robert Bell dismissed the defendants motion to have his cases dismissed on the grounds of double jeopardy. The motion also accused District Attorney Greg Newman of vindictive prosecution.

The courts decision now allows Newman to proceed to trial against Schalow on six felony assault cases and on 14 felony child abuse cases.

The allegations in the indictments concern the defendants treatment of both his wife and son when they lived in Hendersonville, Newman said in a news release.

Schalow was convicted by a Henderson County jury in 2015 of attempted first-degree murder by torture. The victim was his wife, Erin Schalow. The couple had one child together.

The N.C. Court of Appeals vacated the conviction on Dec. 20, 2016, saying an earlier ruling by Superior Court Judge Mark Powell declaring a mistrial due to a defective indictment was technically incorrect. The subsequent, corrected indictment used to successfully prosecute Schalow was deemed a violation of his double jeopardy rights.

Newman tried to appeal the decision to the N.C. Supreme Court, which declined to take up the case. Newman then moved for a new indictment on child abuse and assault charges for offenses spanning from 2012 to 2014.

If convicted of those charges, Schalow would receive a prison sentence similar to the one he received for the attempted murder conviction.

Schalow remains incarcerated in the Henderson County Detention Center.

I want to always acknowledge that all persons charged with crimes are presumed innocent until proven guilty, Newman said in the release. Naturally, we are pleased with this latest ruling and will proceed to hold this defendant responsible for his actions. The victim in the case continues to be very cooperative with my office, so I know she is looking forward to a time where she can put this matter behind her.

The trial is expected to begin during the November term.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- The Haval F5, the first model of the F Series under Great Wall Motor's Haval brand, will go on sale in September this year, according to local media. Positioned as an entry-level compact SUV model, the Haval F5 has two engine variants.

The new SUV model adopts an all-new design in its appearance. At the front face, a massive dot-matrix intake grille matches with slim headlights and well-designed fog lights. Besides, the curvaceous rear design creates rather sporty visual effect.

The Haval F5 features traditional split-type taillights at the rear end, which looks quite neat. The new model measures 4,470mm in length, 1,857mm in width and 1,638mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,680mm.

Inside, the Haval F5 boasts a concise layout by carrying a sporty flat bottomed steering wheel, a full liquid crystal display as well as a large-sized screen in the center console under which only physical keys of the air conditioner exist.

As to the powertrain, the new SUV model will be given two engine variants. To be specific, the 1.5L turbocharged engine mated with a manual transmission is able to deliver a maximum power output of 169hp and the 2.0L turbocharged engine, which can output a maximum power of 197hp, is fitted with a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.
Srimagar Aug 06: Rajouri and Poonch districts on Monday observed a strike in protest against attempts being made to do away with the special status of Jammu and Kashmir in the Constitution of India.

All Parties Coordination Committee had called for the strike, which protested against a bunch of petitions filed in the Supreme Court challenging Article 35A, which empowers J&K Assembly to define permanent residents of the state and endow them with special privileges. The apex court deferred the hearing to August 27.

While shops remained closed and traffic thin, demonstrations were held and roads were blocked at several places in the two districts.

In Rajouri district, markets remained closed in GujjarMandi, Kheora, DC Office road and Bela colony, Malik market and other places. Members of the All Parties Coordination Committee participated in a protest march in the town. In Darhal town, a complete bandh was observed and all the business establishments were kept closed. People also blocked main road leading to Rajouri from Darhal and staged protest against any attempt to scrap states special status.

In Thanamandi, a complete strike was observed in response to the call of religious scholars that was supported by local beoparmandal. A protest march was also held while the road from Thanamandi to Rajouri was blocked. A big demonstration was held in Manjakote, with the protesters blocking main chowk at Manjakote and stalling traffic on Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch highway.

In KotrankaKandi town, people held a protest march which culminated at the Bus Stand where protesters shouted slogans in favour of states special status and demanded that the Government of India should respect it. In Poonch district, business establishments remained closed in several areas and traffic was thin. A large number of people participated in a demonstration and said any attempt to play with states special status will have serious consequences. They said the Government of India should stop fiddling with Article 35A for political gains. In Mandi town of Poonch, a complete bandh was observed and hundreds of local residents participated in a protest march.

In Surankote, a huge number of people participated in a protest march that passed through the main market.

Those who spoke during the protest castigated BJP leadership for plunging the state into chaos. They said since BJP failed to provide good governance in the state and the country, the party was now diverting peoples attention from main issues.

In BufliyazChandimarh, people blocked the Mughal Road and held a protest for half an hour. In Mendhar, a big demonstration was held at the main bus stand in which a large number of people took part and shouted anti-BJP slogans. They said the central government was playing with fire and its attempts will put Jammu province to trouble as states special status is not confined to any religion or section of life.

STUDENTS SHOUT PRO-FREEDOM SLOGANS

Students of a government education institution shouted pro-freedom slogans during a protest over Article 35A.

The protest was held on Jammu-Poonch highway at BhataDhurian village of Mendhar. A video showing the students shouting pro-freedom slogans went viral. Mendhar sub-divisional magistrate DrTanveer Khan said the executive magistrate of the area has been directed to submit a report in this matter for further legal action.

We are examining the video and action under law will be taken, a police officer said.
Srinagar: Supreme Court today said that a three-judge bench would decide whether the pleas challenging Article 35A, which provides special rights and privileges to the natives of Jammu and Kashmir, should be referred to a five-judge Constitution bench for examining the larger issue of alleged violation of the doctrine of basic structure of the Constitution.

A bench comprising Chief Justice DipakMisra and Justice A Khanwilkar adjourned the crucial hearing on as many as five petitions to the week commencing from August 27 on the grounds that they pertained to the challenge to a Constitutional scheme and could not be heard as the third judge, Justice D Y Chandrachud, was not present today.

As the matter came up today in the backdrop of protests in Jammu and Kashmir on the issue, the state government sought adjournment of the hearing citing upcoming local body elections in the state and was supported by the Centre.

The lawyers for petitioners, however, vehemently opposed the adjournment plea and sought an early hearing after the bench clarified that it cannot take up the matter due to lack of quorum.

Once you have challenged the constitutional validity of Article 35-A, a three judge bench would decide whether they have to go before a Constitution bench. A three-judge bench will determine it. A three-judge bench has been dealing with it, the CJI said.

A three-judge bench will consider whether it has to go before a Constitution bench, the court said, making it clear that the hearing has to be adjourned as Justice Chandrachud, one of the three judges of the bench, was not present.

The bench made clear that under Article 145 (special provisions as to disposal of questions relating to constitutional validity of laws) of the Constitution, any challenge to validity of a constitutional provision needed to be adjudicated upon by a larger bench.

The court, in its historic KesavanandaBharatijudgement in 1973, had propounded the basic structure doctrine and had said that the Constitution has certain basic features like fundamental rights and judicial independence which cannot be altered even by Parliament.

Article 35-A, which was incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, accords special rights and privileges to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir and bars people from outside the state from acquiring any immovable property in the state

It also denies property rights to a woman who marries a person from outside the state. The provision, which leads to such women from the state forfeiting their rights over property, also applies to their heirs.

All eyes were on the apex court today as the matter came a day after civil society organisations and business and trade bodies kept up their protests against the pleas challenging the validity of Article 35A.

At the outset, Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was assisted by lawyers D C Raina and ShoebAlam, appeared on behalf of the state government and sought adjournment of the hearing on the ground of local body elections in the state likely to be held in September.

Attorney General K KVenugopal, representing the Centre, also supported the submission.

The petitioners, opposed to the Article 35A, including NGO We the Citizens, which was represented by lawyer Barun Kumar Sinha, opposed the adjournment plea of the state government.

The court said the three judge bench needed to determine whether these matters were required to be referred to a five-judge Constitution bench.

When some lawyers insisted that an urgent hearing was needed, the bench asked, Tell us, when the article came, Article 35A, came into the Constitution in 1954.

When some advocates pointed out ongoing lawyers protests in favour and against the provision, the court said, We are not concerned. It reiterated the matters have to be heard by a three-judge bench, which was not assembling today.

It said in matters like this where constitutional scheme was under challenge, the court would like to hear Attorney General K KVenugopal and even the counsel for state will have very limited and minimal role to address.

The courts observation that the state has a minimal role in the judicial scrutiny of Article 35A, drew sharp observation from the counsel for the state government and others like National Conference and CPI(M).

The state government has a very key and pivotal role in it, senior advocate RakeshDwivedi, appearing for one of the parties, said.

The bench then adjourned the hearing, saying it would hear preliminary arguments in the week commencing from August 27. The apex court is hearing a batch of pleas seeking quashing of the article which confers special status to permanent residents of the state.

Political parties, including the National Conference and the CPI-M, have moved the Supreme Court in support of Article 35-A that empowers the state assembly to define permanent residents for bestowing special rights and privileges to them.

The state government, while defending the Article, had cited two verdicts by the Constitution benches of the Supreme Court in 1961 and 1969, which had upheld the powers of the president under Article 370(1)(d) of the Constitution to pass constitutional orders. The Article was incorporated in the Constitution in 1954 by an order of presidentRajendra Prasad on the advice of the then Jawaharlal Nehru Cabinet. PTI
Srinagar: Four soldiers and two suspected rebels were killed on Tuesday in a gunbattle along the highly militarized de facto border that divides the disputed region of Kashmir between India and Pakistan, the Indian army said.

The six combatants were killed in fighting that erupted in Gurez sector of occupied Kashmir, said Indian army spokesman Col. Rajesh Kalia.

He said the armys patrolling party intercepted the infiltrating group early Tuesday.

Military authorities rushed in a reinforcement of soldiers to the mountainous and forested area where they were still conducting searches for other possible militants.

One among the armys fatalities was an officer.

There was no independent confirmation of the incident.

Most Kashmiris support the rebel cause that the territory be united either under Pakistani rule or as an independent country while also participating in civilian street protests against Indian control.

Rebels have been fighting Indian control since 1989. India accuses Pakistan of arming and training the rebels, a charge Pakistan denies.

Nearly 70,000 people have been killed in the uprising and the ensuing Indian military crackdown.

-AFP
The remains of a young boy were found on a compound in rural New Mexico where 11 emaciated children were discovered last week, authorities said Tuesday.

But it is unclear whether the remains uncovered Monday are those of a missing Georgia boy, Abdul-Ghani Wahhaj, who was nowhere to be found after authorities stormed the complex on Friday. The boy's father was suspected of abducting him late last year from Clayton County, Georgia.

Arrests Belief, religion and spirituality Child abuse Children Continents and regions Crime, law enforcement and corrections Crimes against persons Criminal law Criminal offenses Demographic groups Families and children Family members and relatives Georgia Islam Law and legal system Law enforcement Misc people Missing persons Muslim people New Mexico New York (State) New York City North America Northeastern United States Population and demographics Religious groups Sirajuddin Haqqani Society Southeastern United States Southwestern United States The Americas United States Companies Facebook Internet and WWW Social media Technology Search and seizure Deaths and fatalities Kidnappings and abductions

Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe said the positive identification of the remains is pending an autopsy.

"We discovered the remains yesterday," the sheriff said, getting choked up, "on Abdul's fourth birthday."

The boy's father, Siraj Wahhaj, was arrested Friday along with his sisters Hujrah Wahhaj and Subhannah Wahhaj after authorities raided the compound. The siblings and two other adults also arrested -- Lucas Morten and Jany Leveille -- are accused of keeping the children in an underground trailer with virtually no food or water.

New Mexico authorities had suspicions that the father and son may be at the compound after learning in May about the abduction, the sheriff said. But authorities didn't have enough evidence for a search warrant, he said. Surveillance of the property didn't identify the pair there, the sheriff said.

The "breaking point for us" in the search for Abdul-Ghani came last Thursday, when New Mexico authorities received a tip about possible starving children living on the compound, the sheriff said. He said he felt investigators had enough probable cause to put in an affidavit for a search warrant.

The sheriff said authorities learned more details after the raid and returned Monday with a good idea of where to search for Abdul-Ghani.

Abdul-Ghani's mother, Hakima Ramzi, could not be reached after authorities announced the discovery of the remains.

The boy's grandfather, Imam Siraj Wahhaj is "devastated that those remains could possibly be those of Abdul-Ghani," according to a spokesman.

"We don't know whether those remains are those of his grandson," said the Imam Al-Hajj Talib 'Abdur-Rashid, head of the Muslim Alliance in North America.

What we know about the missing boy, Abdul-Ghani Wahhaj

'I haven't seen my son in nine months'

Hours earlier, Ramzi told CNN she knew her husband wanted to rid their then 3-year-old son of his medical problems. But she had no idea he'd disappear with their son for nine months, only to be found across the country with 11 other children living in squalor.

The younger Wahhaj, 40, and the four other adults found at the compound have been charged with abuse of the 11 children found in a filthy, makeshift compound.

Morten was charged with harboring a fugitive. The five are set to appear in court on Wednesday.

"I haven't seen my son in nine months," Ramzi said on Tuesday.

"My husband said he was taking Abdul-Ghani to the park, and didn't come back. That was in November 2017. When I would ask him where he was, he said he was on his way, he was coming soon, he was just keeping him for the night. But I haven't seen him since then."

She said Abdul-Ghani has hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. "He cannot walk and suffers seizures and requires constant medical attention," Ramzi said.

An arrest warrant affidavit for Wahhaj said the mother claimed Wahhaj "wanted to perform an exorcism" on the child because he believed Abdul-Ghani was possessed by the devil.

But Ramzi clarified to CNN that her husband said he was planning to perform a ruqya -- an Islamic practice involving prayer that is believed to help rid a body of illness.

"It's not an exorcism. That was a translation issue in the court," Ramzi said. Wahhaj "just wanted to pray for Abdul-Ghani to get better."

Suspect's father is a controversial religious leader

Wahhaj's father -- Siraj Wahhaj -- is a prominent and controversial New York imam.

The imam was the first Muslim to offer an opening prayer before the US House of Representatives, the Muslim Alliance in North America said. He was also a character witness for convicted 1993 World Trade Center bombing mastermind Omar Abdel-Rahman.

In a January Facebook post, Imam Siraj Wahhaj called for the safe return of his three children and 12 grandchildren.

On Tuesday, Imam Siraj Wahhaj said his son and two of the women arrested -- Hujrah and Subhannah Wahhaj -- are his children.

"I want to first express my gratitude for law enforcement for helping to locate my family," the elder Wahhaj said. "My immediate concern is the safe return of Abdul-Ghani to his mother."

The father was spotted on his way to New Mexico

In December, days after Ramzi reported her son missing, the younger Wahhaj was involved in an accident in Alabama, according to a police report. The SUV contained seven children -- but none of the children was listed with Abdul-Ghani's date of birth.

The SUV was registered to Leveille, who was also in the vehicle. She would later become one of the five adults arrested at the compound in New Mexico.

But at the time, Alabama police didn't hold the group after the traffic accident. The group told police they were headed to New Mexico to go camping, and continued on their way.

Even though young Abdul-Ghani was reported missing, there was no child abduction warrant against Wahhaj because he was married to his son's mother -- meaning they both had equal custody of the boy, Clayton County police said.

But a juvenile court judge eventually issued an arrest warrant to question Wahhaj after he failed to let the mother know where Abdul was.

Deplorable living conditions

The three Wahhaj siblings, Leveille and Morten eventually gathered in the remote New Mexico community of Amalia. There, they kept the children in squalid conditions, authorities said.

"The only food we saw were a few potatoes and a box of rice in the filthy trailer," Hogrefe has said.

His officers helped execute a search warrant on the compound after receiving the message last week that was apparently forwarded from someone at the compound: "We are starving and need food and water."

The children looked like "Third-World country refugees" with no fresh water, no shoes, "and basically dirty rags" for clothing, according to the sheriff.

"We all gave the kids our water and what snacks we had -- it was the saddest living conditions and poverty I have seen," Hogrefe said.

The children were taken into protective custody and later turned over to the New Mexico Children Youth and Families Department.

The state agency said it planned to file a petition with the court to maintain custody of the children, according to Monique Jacobson, cabinet secretary for the department.

Over the weekend, Jason Badger and his wife Tanya, whose land the compound was erected on, said they went back to the property to look for Abdul-Ghani.

They had seen a young child that they said resembled the boy two times, in January and February, the couple told CNN.

The Badgers said they knew he hadn't been found after the raid.

Badger said the couple found what he described as two breathing machines. One machine had "a little bitty mask," he said.

"Clearly, you could tell it was made for a child," he said.
An amendment from Italy's anti-establishment government that removes mandatory vaccination for schoolchildren is sending shock waves through the country's scientific and medical community.

It suspends for a year a law that requires parents to provide proof of 10 routine vaccinations when enrolling their children in nurseries or preschools. The amendment was approved by Italy's upper house of parliament on Friday by 148 to 110 votes and still has to pass the lower house.

Communicable disease control Continents and regions Europe Health and medical Italy Public health Southern Europe Vaccination and immunization Children Children's health Demographic groups Diseases and disorders Families and children Family members and relatives Health and health care (by demographic group) Maternal and child health Pediatric vaccinations Population and demographics Society Infectious diseases Measles Science

The law had originally been introduced by the Democratic Party in July 2017 amid an ongoing outbreak of measles that saw 5,004 cases reported in 2017 -- the second-highest figure in Europe after Romania -- according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Italy accounted for 34% of all measles cases reported by countries in the European Economic Area, the center said.

Italy's Five Star movement and its coalition partner, the far-right League, both voiced their opposition to compulsory vaccinations, claiming they discourage school inclusion.

League leader and Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said in June that the 10 obligatory vaccinations, which include measles, tetanus and polio, "are useless and in many cases dangerous, if not harmful," according to ANSA news agency.

"I confirm the commitment to allow all children to go to school," he added. "The priority is that they don't get expelled from the classes."

Health Minister Giulia Grillo, a Five Star member, said the government wants to "spur school inclusion and simplify rules for parents."

Why it's dangerous

Doctors and experts have warned that the amendment might invert a positive trend that saw Italy's inoculation coverage rising after spending years lagging behind the World Health Organization's recommended 95% coverage level to ensure "herd immunity."

"Italy's measles vaccine coverage was par with Namibia, lower than Ghana," said Roberto Burioni, a professor of microbiology and virology at San Raffaele University in Milan. "But the law was working, the coverage was improving. We should strengthen it, not weaken it. Now, children who are not vaccinated will endanger other children at school who are too small for vaccines or cannot be vaccinated because they suffer from immunosuppressive diseases."

In 2015, child immunization rates in Italy for the first dose of the measles vaccine was 85%, according to World Health Organization figures. The second dose was 83%.

Italians' trust in the efficacy and safety of vaccinations was affected by an infamous ruling in 2012 from a Rimini court that established a link between autism and the combined measles, mumps and rubella vaccination, experts say. While the ruling was overturned three years later, it helped anti-vaccination theories to spread in Italy -- and globally.

"Italy is part of a global trend of distrust in mediators -- doctors and scientists -- who can interpret and explain data," said Andrea Grignolio, who teaches the history of medicine and bioethics at La Sapienza University of Rome. "With the advent of the Internet, people have the illusion they can access and read data by themselves, removing the need for technical and scientific knowledge."

While European countries behave differently as far as mandatory vaccinations are concerned, and the actual efficiency of forcing parents to inoculate their children is disputed, Grignolio and Burioni agree that, in the case of Italy, the law was having the desired effect.

By 2017, child immunization rates for the first dose of the measles vaccine had increased to 92%, though the second dose remained low at 86%.

The majority -- 89% -- of measles cases in Italy in 2017 were among unvaccinated people, and 6% of infections affected people who received only one dose of vaccine, according to a report from the ECDC.

Distrust in institutions

Others maintain that the skepticism about vaccines is in line with a more general lack of trust in Italy's institutions, a sentiment that the populist Five Star Movement was able to channel in its political agenda, winning support at the latest general elections.

"Distrust in vaccines is one of the symptoms of a more general distrust in institutions," says Riccardo Saporiti, a data journalist and contributor to Wired Italy who has written about vaccine coverage in Italy.

Saporiti argues that distrust in Italian institutions started in Italy with what was called Tangentopoli (Bribesville), a corruption scandal that shattered the postwar political establishment in the 1990s.

"It destroyed Italians' trust in politics, and then it spread to anyone with a specific expertise," he said. "Five Star's slogan at the 2013 elections was 'One is worth one,' which is the denial to any concept of competence and merit."

In a data analysis for Wired, Saporiti uncovered that in some areas in Italy, one in two children born in 2013 did not get the MMR vaccination.

However, the future is not all dark, according to Grignolio, who says 10% of Italians who are somewhat hesitant about vaccinations that can be convinced to inoculate their children.

"When there's an obligation, they will comply. But the newly approved self-certification is a joke," he said.
The rescue of 11 hungry children in Amalia, New Mexico, on Friday began with a mysterious tip delivered to a detective across the country, in Clayton County, Georgia, from where young Abdul-Ghani Wahhaj vanished in November.

"We are starving and need food and water," read the message that provided the impetus for the raid on the rural compound near the Colorado border.

Arrests Belief, religion and spirituality Children Continents and regions Crime, law enforcement and corrections Criminal law Demographic groups Families and children Family members and relatives Law and legal system Law enforcement Missing persons New Mexico North America Population and demographics Search and seizure Society Southwestern United States The Americas United States

New York imam linked to case

There, authorities found the emaciated children -- the youngest 1, the oldest 15 -- in a squalid underground trailer, along with three women in their 30s, apparently the youths' mothers.

After a standoff, police also took into custody two armed-to-the-hilt men -- one of them Siraj Wahhaj, 40, Abdul-Ghani's father.

But they didn't find Abdul-Ghani that day. On Monday, investigators returned and found the remains of a young boy whose identity is awaiting confirmation, Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe said.

Here's what we know of the youngster whose disappearance ultimately set the New Mexico raid into motion:

Boy was last seen with his dad

Abdul-Ghani, who turned 4 on Monday, left his home in Jonesboro, Georgia, with his father in late November, Abdul-Ghani's mother, Hakima Ramzi, told police. They left in a 2005 gold Jeep Liberty, supposedly to go to the park, but never came back. Ramzi reported the child missing days later.

"When I would ask (Wahhaj) where he was, he said he was on his way, he was coming soon, he was just keeping him for the night," she told CNN. "I haven't seen him since then. ... I don't think his father would intentionally hurt him."

Police initially filed no child abduction report because Wahhaj and Ramzi were married -- she filed for divorced in December, Clayton County court documents show. But a juvenile court judge in January issued an arrest warrant for Wahhaj for failing to let Ramzi know where he'd taken Abdul-Ghani.

Ramzi said she gets information about the case from the media, and authorities haven't shared any developments with her. She said she did not want to answer too many questions because of an ongoing custody battle.

A missing persons report described Abdul-Ghani as 36 to 40 inches tall and weighing 20 to 25 pounds. He needs assistance walking and may be wearing leg braces, the report said. He has a blue birthmark on his back.

"I need my son," Ramzi said. "I have all intentions of going to New Mexico to look for my son."

Wahhaj encounters police in Alabama

In the middle of the night on December 13, almost two weeks after Abdul-Ghani's disappearance but well before a judge issued a warrant for the father's arrest, Wahhaj flipped a Ford Explorer on Interstate 65 in Chilton County, Alabama, north of Montgomery, according a police traffic report.

Wahhaj told police he did not recall what caused the single-vehicle crash. He said he left the roadway and when he attempted to swerve back onto I-65, the Explorer rolled and came to rest on its roof, the report said.

The police report states the only victims of the crash were a 5-year-old boy and Jany Leveille, one of the women arrested in New Mexico last week. Both were taken to a hospital.

There were six other children in the car, ranging in age from 3 to 15. The birth date listed for the 3-year-old does not match Abdul-Ghani's birthday.

According to CNN affiliate KOAT, Lucas Morten picked up the group after the accident. Morten was the other man arrested with Wahhaj in New Mexico.

Child suffers from medical problems

Though a search warrant says Abdul-Ghani walks with a limp, the Georgia warrant for Wahhaj's arrest and the boy's mother say he cannot walk.

Abdul-Ghani suffers from hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and suffers seizures, Ramzi said. He requires constant care and medical attention, she said.

Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy is a serious but relatively rare complication affecting infants. According to the National Institutes of Health, it prevents adequate blood flow to the brain and can result in mental retardation, epilepsy or cerebral palsy by age 2.

Mom disputes claim Wahhaj planned exorcism

One of the most curious elements of the case is a line in the arrest warrant that says Ramzi claimed Wahhaj "wanted to perform an exorcism on said child because he believes the child is possessed by the devil."

The New Mexico search warrants also says investigators had reason to believe Wahhaj planned an exorcism and was denying Abdul-Ghani his medication.

Ramzi, however, told CNN that she never claimed Wahhaj sought to perform an exorcism, a word most often associated with Christianity. Instead, Ramzi said, she told police Wahhaj wanted to perform ruqya on the boy.

While ruqya is generally described as an Islamic version of exorcism -- though the targets are jinn, or spirits, rather than Satan -- Ramzi described Wahhaj's intentions as an attempt to cast out Abdul-Ghani's illness via prayer.

"It's not an exorcism," she told CNN. "That was a translation issue in the court. He just wanted to pray for Abdul-Ghani to get better"

Boy may have been in New Mexico recently

Before conducting the Friday raid, authorities studied the property, which hosted the underground trailer covered in plastic and surrounded by tires and an earthen berm.

"Aerial surveillance of the property has been conducted by (the) FBI which documented adult males, females and children present at the compound but none of these persons (is) yet identified, except that one child was observed walking with a limp," the New Mexico search warrant says.

It's unclear if the child with the limp was Abdul-Ghani, but the Taos County Sheriff's Office said the boy may have been at the compound recently.

"None of the adults would give (statements) to the current whereabouts of AG Wahhaj," its statement said, "but it is reasonably believed he was there a few weeks ago. The investigation into locating him is ongoing."
ONEONTA  A New Jersey woman is facing an assault charge after she allegedly got into a fight with another woman in Oneonta, according to New York State Police.

Twenty-year-old Dallas Clark of Camden, New Jersey, is charged with third-degree misdemeanor assault.

Police say just after 8 p.m. Monday, troopers were called to Job Corp in Oneonta following a fight that took place outside the building.

Police say Clark is accused of getting into a verbal argument with another female, then physical hitting her. Police say Clark allegedly punched the victim in the face, grabbed her by the hair and then kneed her in the face.

The victim was treated at A. O. Fox Hospital and an order of protection was issued on her behalf.

Clark was charged and arraigned in Oneonta Town Court, then sent to the Otsego County Jail on $250 cash bail or $500 property bond.
President Donald Trump is set to visit Utica on Monday, a White House staffer confirmed to NEWSChannel 2 on Tuesday.

According to Cole Davis, White House Press Lead for the Advanced Office, Trump will be in Utica Monday, Aug. 13 for an event that is closed to the media. Details about the event have not yet been announced, but Watertown CBS affiliate WWNY reports that Trumps visit will be to campaign for Rep. Claudia Tenney. We have reached out to Tenney to confirm this information, and we are waiting to hear back.

Trumps last visit to the local area was back in 2016, when he held a campaign rally at Griffiss International Airport in Rome.

This past weekend, Trump visited Ohio to campaign for Troy Balderson, who is running in a special election in the states 12th Congressional District. Trump also made a stop in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania to campaign for Lou Barletta, who is trying to unseat two-term Democratic Sen. Bob Casey.
Jammu, August 07: Talib Hussain, a social activist who spearheaded the campaign to seek justice for gang rape and murder victim girl from Kathua, Aasifa, has suffered head injuries during police custody at Samba Police Station in Jammu region.

Noted lawyer, Deepika Singh Rajawat, told media men in Jammu that Talib was injured after being attacked obviously by Hindu inmates at the behest of prejudiced police authorities in the Muslim minority Jammu region.

The social media was abuzz with the reports that Talib Hussain was assaulted by inmates inside the lockup at Samba Police Station and many people expressed their concern over the threat to his life in custody.

He (Talib) was taken to the hospital for treatment. Now he is stable, said a police officer, wishing not to be quoted.

Talib is on police remand for ten days. He has been implicated in a fake case by Samba police in a bid to teach him a lesson for advocating sentence to culprits involved in rape and murder of minor Aasifa. He was arrested in fake cases last week by Samba police.

Talib who has been in police custody is upset with the treatment meted out to him by the police since people are not allowed to meet him. He says that he is innocent and should be released from the police custody.

It is in place to mention here that Talib Hussain was at the forefront to seek justice for the Kathua girl, who was gang raped and murdered in Rasana village of the district, earlier this year.
TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI)  The Indiana Secured School Safety Board recently approved more than $14 million in matching school safety grant money, and a lot of those dollars went to local school districts.

With school safety on educators' minds now more than ever, Tippecanoe County public schools wanted to make sure the annual funds were put to good use this year.

The Lafayette School Corporation and Tippecanoe School Corporation, among other area districts, were recently awarded the maximum amount of $50,000. West Lafayette schools were awarded more than $20,000.

In order to get the money, school districts must produce a 50% match. That means the TSC and LSC has up to $100,000 to use thanks to this opportunity. Superintendents said it's not the only "safety fund," but it does help the districts out.

"That sounds like a lot of money, and it is," said LSC Superintendent Les Huddle. "But our number one priority is just to make sure our current safety issues, like locks on the doors, security cameras are up to date and working. After about four or five years, you're dealing with old technology. So you have to begin replacing those things."

TSC Superintendent Scott Hanback said that money is used for its school resource officer program.

"TSC is fortunate to have two SROs," said Hanback. "We would love to have more, but the grant helps us provide one and then the Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Office, thankfully, provides the other."

The program provides the matching grants to school corporations, accredited non-public schools and charter schools who want to employ a school resource officer, conduct a threat assessment, or purchase equipment to restrict access to the school or expedite the notification of first responders. School corporations, charter schools or coalitions with an average daily membership of at least 1,000 can apply for grants up to $50,000 annually. Schools with membership of less than 1,000 can apply for grants up to $35,000 per year

Here's how much local school corporations were awarded:

Attica Consolidated School Corporation $34,950.00

Benton Community School Corporation $49,500.00

Carroll Consolidated $19,089.00

Central Catholic Jr/Sr High School $30,787.50

Clinton Central School Corporation $34,846.00

Clinton Prairie School Corporation $50,000.00

Community Schools of Frankfort $50,000.00

Covington Community School Corporation $22,750.00

Delphi Community School Corporation $50,000.00

Lafayette School Corporation $50,000.00

North Newton School Corporation $50,000.00

Peru Community Schools $50,000.00

Rensselaer Central School Corporation $38,282.87

Rossville Consolidated School District $35,000.00

Tippecanoe School Corporation $50,000.00

Twin Lakes School Corporation $50,000.00

West Lafayette Community School Corporation $20,250.00

As we previously reported, the LSC will share 30 metal detector wands this year after a new state program offered 1 free metal detector wand for every 250 students.

Superintendent Les Huddle told News 18 last month a lot needs to happen before the schools begin using them.

West Lafayette Superintendent Rocky Killion said the district didn't take the offer because there were too many questions they didn't have answers to. In the TSC, Superintendent Hanback said they didn't want to rush the decision, but the district is likely to apply for the wands during the state's second offering in the fall.
TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI)  Indiana education laws on sex and cursive education changed over the summer. Schools are now unable to teach sex-ed without parental permission, and schools can teach cursive writing if local officials wish to. But, superintendents said the "changes" have been their policy all along. The main change now, is how parents are notified.

In the Lafayette School Corporation, Superintendent Les Huddle said teachers determine if children will learn cursive or not. And all children are taught sex education at the intermediate level. However, Huddle said all of its curriculum is a parental choice.

If a parent were to opt their child out, Huddle said that's okay, but they would want to work with the parent.

"We would have a conversation with that parent and try to figure out why," said Huddle. "Are we doing something inappropriate or wrong? While the legislation has changed, it's really all on us. The parent's have always had the option to opt-out, it's just now we are going to give them more notification of their opportunity."

That's the case for sex education at the TSC too. Now, parent notification is just more formalized. Superintendent Scott Hanback said there is going to be more record keeping this year. He said the longer parental notification process could be hard from a timing standpoint.

"Teachers build their units, but the law says we have to wait a certain amount of time before we can actually teach the unit so we have time to hear back from the parents," said Hanback. "We understand there is mandatory curriculum we know there are standards. But the more flexibility, the more unique aspect of instruction that the teachers have, I believe the more learning and better student achievement in the classroom."

Hanback said as far as cursive education goes, the teachers decide if they want to include it in their elementary curriculum. He said the last time they polled teachers, it turned up 50 percent for and 50 percent against cursive. He said he attributes that to the rise in technology-based learning.

West Lafayette Community School Corporation Superintendent Rocky Killion said they will meet the state standards, but the way topics should be solved need to lie in the hands of educators.

"I'm a fan of, 'What's the goal?' and then letting each community figure out how to reach that goal, and to do it in a way that meets the needs of students and teachers in the community," said Killion.

News 18 This Morning's Back to School: Beyond the Basics continues Wednesday as we look at how the public school districts in Tippecanoe County have solved issues they had last year.
10 House panels hold first meeting

Thematic committees finally got down to business as they held their maiden meetings on Monday.
LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WISH) - Indiana lawmakers spent Monday discussing a rather controversial subject: industrial hemp.

It looks like marijuana but is a different type of cannabis, according to experts in a Purdue University hemp project. Industrial hemp will not get you high. In a summer study, lawmakers are talking about growing and producing this stuff across the state.

Since 2015, Leah Sandler has cared for cannabis plants at Meigs Farm, part of the Throckmorton Purdue Agricultural Center. State lawmakers toured the farm Monday.

As part of the university's hemp project, Sandler's goal is figure out through research how to best grow hemp in Indiana. A graduate student, she said Monday, "From my three summers of research, if you can get in in May and you don't have heavy rains, it will establish well."

Ronald Turco heads Purdue's department of agronomy, the science of soil management and crop production. He said his team provides research to lawmakers. He heard some concerns from lawmakers Monday.

"Worries about comparison to marijuana," Turco said. "We've shown them how we're different. How you do things different. How hemp is a different material and how it's grown versus marijuana."

There's no doubt you can use hemp for things such as paper, animal bedding or eating the seeds. But, Turco said, the other question he hears: Is Indiana hungry for industrial hemp?

"We think there's a market for it, but It just has to develop," the agronomist said.

A member of the summer study committee, state Sen. Randy Head, a Logansport Republican, said the Indiana Department of Agriculture is not set up as a regulatory agency, which would have to be figured out before industrial hemp can be grown in the state.

Head also said money to fund regulatory efforts might have to come from the state budget.

Head, who is the assistant minority leader-communications, said he would like to see lawmakers create a state system similar to Kentucky's. "Anyone that wants to grow, they have to have a permit issued by their state government. They have to have GPS coordinates for their growing operations so if the police want to come in and inspect, they know exactly where to go. Then, anything not being grown at those GPS coordinates is illegal."

Indiana Prosecuting Attorneys Council said they're neutral about industrial hemp in Indiana. The council is an independent state judicial branch agency created by state law.

David Powell, executive director of the council, said, "Our major concern is: Can it be regulated? Is it feasible? Does it make sense for Indiana? What's it look like? Our biggest concern is the only real market in place for marijuana is the illicit drug market. We just want to make sure safeguards are in place."

The people who work the hemp farm tell me they're going to continue to work with lawmakers.
LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI)- A former member of the Lafayette Fire Department was honored in a very special way.

Former LFD Assistant Chief Rene Richardson passed away on August 1st at 86 years old.

Members of the department saluted outside station number seven as the funeral procession passed by Monday morning.

Richardson was one of the first firefighters to open the station. He was also in charge of a major portion of the department's suppression division, becoming assistant chief very early in his career.

Richardson completed more than 20 years when he retired in 1977.

LFD Firefighter Alec Gibson said it's important to honor those who served the community.

"Just because I didn't serve with him, or anybody else that I currently serve with, he still made a lasting effort, I'm sure, within the department," Gibson said. "Being an assistant chief, and just retiring and serving the community for as long as he did."

Richardson was described as a very stern, but fair leader, and he always made sure everyone was safe.
BUNKER HILL, Ind. (WLFI)  A 14-year-old Miami County boy is in police custody after being found with weapons behind a school, according to the sheriff's office.

It happened Tuesday afternoon at Maconaquah High School in Bunker Hill. Investigators believe the boy was waiting behind the school to make contact with a female student who is a former acquaintance. He had two knives and a replica handgun that fires rubber bullets.

A school maintenance worker confronted the boy and ordered him to place the replica handgun on the ground. He complied and school officials surrounded him until police could arrive.
LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI)  Pro-life activists organized a press conference in front of the Tippecanoe County Courthouse.

The Pro-Life Court Coalition traveled all around the state to get their message across to U.S. Senator Joe Donnelly.

They urged the Senator to vote to confirm President Trump's nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Come November, Sen. Donnelly will be up for re-election.

Before then, he faces this big decision: whether or not to confirm Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh.

Sue Swayze Liebel said its time for Donnelly to stand with them.

One of the things the Susan B. Anthony List is doing is educating voters as to how he is voting in Washington on the life issue and this is a perfect example, said Libel. So we need him to stand with us and not stand with the radical abortion lobby.

News 18 reached out to Donnelly's office for comment.

They say, Senator Joe Donnelly has consistently said he would carefully review Judge Kavanaugh's record, meet with him, and follow his Senate confirmation hearing. The senator is continuing to thoroughly examine Judge Kavanaugh's record and looks forward to sitting down with him next week.

As News-18 previously reported, Donnelly was set to meet with Kavanaugh this month, but instead will meet with him August 15th.

The Senate Judiciary Committee has not yet announced when Kavanaugh's confirmation hearing will begin.
TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI)  State Rep. Sally Siegrist's campaign Twitter account is now back open to the public and those she blocked on the site. Siegrist set her account to private after posting a tweet criticizing her opponent in June.

On Monday, Siegrist finally explained what happened in an email to News 18's Kayla Sullivan.

"I'm sorry that the current environment in politics and media is so divisive that a statement can be misconstrued in that way," Siegrist said in response to the tweet she sent about her opponent. "With the emphasis I have always maintained on positive campaigning, including a positive pledge with a former opponent, it seems less than accurate to say that I tweeted an attack on my current opponent. I took the statement down from Twitter after receiving feedback that it sounded negative. It was not and is not my intention to be negative about anything."

Siegrist's tweet was in response to a WLFI article announcing her opponent's decision to enter the race. It read, "Involved in the community? Really? Were you born here, raised here? Did you go to Lafayette Jefferson High School, particpate in Tippecanoe County 4-H, on mental @ health task force? Puleez. Contributed to county government? the very first nite you are slated, go negative. Tippe way?"

Siegrist apologized to Sullivan for blocking her and Journal and Courier reporter Dave Bangert on Twitter.

"I extend that apology to you and to anyone who was offended by my taking the account private," said Siegrist in the email.

She said she didn't block Sullivan and Bangert intentionally, she meant to block them from seeing one tweet but accidentally blocked them from accessing her whole account.

She said she did mean to set her account to private but has decided to set it back to public now.

"I took the Twitter account back to being open because of the negative reaction to it being private," said Siegrist. "I did, indeed, hire someone in Indianapolis to run my social media and have instructed them not to use the Twitter account. Instead, we will continue using the Facebook campaign page, Sally Siegrist Indiana State Representative District 26, for social media posts relating to my campaign and to my work as a legislator."

In conclusion, the public will be able to access Siegrist's social media. However, her posts are not likely going to be from her.

But Siegrist said she is more than willing to meet with constituents whenever they have an issue to discuss.

Siegrist unblocked Sullivan and set her account to private two days after Indiana Public Access Counselor Luke Britt released an advisory opinion on the topic.

Sullivan requested his informal opinion in June.

This issue isn't specific to Siegrist. Luke Britt's advisory applies to all government officials.

To view the Indiana Public Access Counselor's full opinion on this matter, click here.
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI)  West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis is asking state lawmakers to make it harder for violent criminals, mentally ill people and domestic abusers to get their hands on firearms.

He presented a resolution at Monday's City Council meeting. This is a non-binding resolution, meaning it currently has no impact on our state laws

Mayor John Dennis is passionate about strengthening the federal background check system. He said there are too many loopholes in the state constitution.

"These might allow dangerous weapons to get in the hands of people who shouldn't have a right," said Dennis.

Indiana does not require private sellers who are not federally licensed dealers to initiate background checks before transferring a firearm.

On top of asking for stricter background checks, Mayor Dennis is also hoping lawmakers will consider strengthening state domestic violence laws.

"It would be like throwing gasoline on a fire and when you look at the statistics among people who are shot and killed in reference to domestic violence, the numbers are astronomical," said Dennis.

Dennis calls this a common sense resolution. He believes NRA members will back it, considering 74 percent of them support background checks.

"The irony of that is these folks are always very good, very responsible very loyal gun owners and they aren't the type person that this legislation is offering up suggestions to," said Dennis.

Several members and supporters of Moms Demand Action were at the meeting, including gun owner Joseph Seger.

"If it's going to bring peace of mind to my neighbor, that is something I can bear and then go and explain to them why gun ownership can be a good thing, why it can be ok to have certain firearms and why those can be good things for America," said Seger in support of Dennis.

Seven of the eight council members voted in favor of the resolution, one abstained calling the resolution vague.

Dennis said though this resolution isn't specifically changing laws, he thinks it could be step in the right direction.

"Now that I'm in a position to pass legislation that starts adding to the conversation, I'm going to do it," said Dennis.
2 children die as they fall into irrigation canal (Update)

The two children, who had gone missing after falling into an irrigation canal at Jhumka in Ramdhuni Municipality of Sunsari district, have been found dead on Tuesday.




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2 children go missing after falling into irrigation canal

Two children have gone missing after falling into an irrigation canal at Jhumka in Ramdhuni Municipality of Sunsari district on Tuesday.
Armed police attend address on Holt Road after disturbance

This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Aug 7th, 2018

Update  to be clear the incident was not involving the Greyhound pub, as below, police attended nearby!

Update 1:50pm: North Wales Police have confirmed they attended after a disturbance at an address in the area, with the incident now resolved.

Original information below

Police are in attendance by the Greyhound public house on Holt Road.

Leah has told us: Four police cars with armed officers outside the Greyhound on Holt Road.

@wrexham 3 police cars with blues and twos racing down the Holt road out of Wrexham. Something big going on somewhere???  Dan Brown (@HollowmanDan) August 7, 2018

Another unmarked unit was blue lighting down Grosvenor Road at the same time.

Dan added: All 3 marked cars parked up by the Greyhound Pub. Officers walking in and round properties, possibly looking for someone?

More shortly.
Fiery meeting sees senior councillors vote to close village primary school  decision branded shameful by local campaigners

This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Aug 7th, 2018

A decision to close a village school has been branded shameful and a whitewash after a fiery meeting saw senior councillors face criticism for their decision.

The public gallery was packed this morning as residents from the Ceiriog Valley and campaigners turned out to oppose the closure of the 110-year-old Ysgol Pontfadog.

18 pupils currently attend the school, however Wrexham Council say there has been a drop in pupil numbers at both Ysgol Pontfadog and Ysgol Cynddelw schools due to a growing Welsh medium demand in the valley.

Following a public consultation and statutory notice period it was recommended that Ysgol Pontfadog was closed, with pupils relocating to the dual-stream site at Ysgol Cynddelw two miles away.

Speaking at this mornings meeting Lead Member for Education, Cllr Phil Wynn, stated he remains convinced that the closure of Ysgol Pontfadog is the most appropriate way forward.

He added: Ysgol Pontfadog is an extremely small school with records indicating only 15 full-time pupils from September. This is not sustainable.

The consideration over the proposal to close a school is not easy, it is understandable there are objections.

Cllr Phil Wynn says he has personally read all objections received and that the consideration over proposals to close a school are not easy and that it is understandable there are objections  Wrexham.com (@wrexham) August 7, 2018

However questions were asked from the public about whether Wrexham Council were encouraging children to be taught out of county.

Emma Humphreys, parent, said: Further up the B4500 at Glyn Ceiriog prospective pupils have been actively dissuaded from entering the English medium classes with such veracity that many Ceiriog Valley residents have decided to educate their children in Shropshire Schools at much cost and inconvenience to themselves.

The Ceiriog Valley Schools consultation was lacking any impact statement on Special Educational Needs, Welsh language, Transport or Community and the Local Development Plan does not facilitate any areas to build new houses to accommodate young families.

Are Wrexham County Borough Council deliberately trying to drive young families out of the Ceiriog Valley and save on education costs by encouraging children to go to Shropshire Schools?

Cllr Wynn said it is not his or the councils intention to see any child taught out of county unless there is any reason for that to happen.

Despite several public questions posed this morning, Cllr Hugh Jones, deputy council leader and chairman of todays meeting, explained that there would be no supplementary questions allowed.

Leader of the Labour Group, Cllr Dana Davies, warned that a dangerous precedent could be set if members of the public are not allowed to ask supplementary questions. But Cllr Hugh Jones, deputy leader of the council and chairman of this mornings meeting, arguing that he was conducting the meeting in accordance to the councils constitution.

Point of order from Cllr Dana Davies who said council is setting a precedent by not allowing supplementary questions to the public this morning. Cllr Hugh Jones says he is conducting meeting in accordance to council constitution  Wrexham.com (@wrexham) August 7, 2018

Calls of Gagging over lack of supplementary questions  Bold statement from Cllr Malcolm King who says decision form Cllr Hugh Jones to not allow supplementary questions makes him ashamed to be a county borough councillor  Wrexham.com (@wrexham) August 7, 2018

In a rare sight on the executive board, four lead members also posed seemingly pre-arranged questions to Cllr Wynn, covering the number of pupils on roll at Ysgol Pontfadog, what transport arrangements will be put in place and assurances that those moving from the school to Ysgol Cynddelw will not be put at a disadvantage.

Councillors were offered assurances that Ysgol is a dual-stream school and that English and Welsh medium is expected to be taught on an equitable basis.

However Wrexham Councils consultation was branded as flawed by the campaigners, with more than 800 consultation respondents raising issues with the process.

Cllr Davies questioned where the council stood on a potential judicial review and that she was surprised such consideration hadnt featured in the report.

She added: There are 882 voices here who believe there are issues with the consultation. I couldnt imagine that 882 voices are going to quieten.

Cllr Dana Davies puts some meat on the number-bone: points out there were 1349 objections to the school closure option, compared to 1043 responses to Councils overall Difficult Decisions budget consultation previously.  Wrexham.com (@wrexham) August 7, 2018

Cllr Davies goes on noting the 882 people who were unhappy with the consultation process, asks if there is any risk of a judicial review. (Thats far more people responding saying they are unhappy, than some consultations get in entirety !)  Wrexham.com (@wrexham) August 7, 2018

Cllr Jones explained that legal advice had been given to all members of the executive board and that they were confident the consultation adhered to the school organisation code.

In a back and forth between Cllr Malcolm King, council officers and Cllr Jones, questions were asked over the process behind todays meeting and whether lead members still meet prior to the formal proceedings.

He said: On the face of it this process is about a little school in a little village having to face the reality its numbers have shrunk to being financially unviable.

What is far more important is at the heart of how we educate children and how we support rural communities and democracy in Wrexham.

For the avoidance of doubt, I assume there was a pre-meeting and youd agreed what way to support.

Cllr King added: When I was lead member we had a process that precedes meetings where you get together and decide how to vote. In my case youd be leaning on my to make sure I agreed with the rest of you.

Cllr King refers to pre meetings and decisions made in advance. Cllr Hugh Jones points out Cllr King was on an Exec Board once  and nothing has changed since then. Cllr King there suggesting pre-meetings are where decisions are taking, now and back when he was on Exec?!   Wrexham.com (@wrexham) August 7, 2018

Democracy in Wrexham historical insight: Cllr King reveals when he was Exec Board member there was a process that preceded meetings to decide how you are going to vote beforehand and leaning on took place to whip in votes.  Wrexham.com (@wrexham) August 7, 2018

Cllr Jones pointed out that nothing had changed since Cllr King had been a lead member and that the cabinet system which the council operates by and that other political parties have a similar process ahead of meetings.

Cllr Jones says Cllr King has obviously not read the report  Cllr King fires back saying he has & is not fulfilling your rules you have only just made. Cllr Jones says he was not belittingly Cllr King, Cllr King claims it was & asks about belittingly gone offtopic here.  Wrexham.com (@wrexham) August 7, 2018

Several councillors gave impassioned pleas to the board to reconsider the recommendation to close the school, stating that it went against democracy to ignore so many voices who opposed the decision.

Cllr Trevor Bates, who represents the Ceiriog Valley, thanked executive board members for their questions  noting that they highlighted information missing from the consultation documents.

He continued onto say that cynics may think that this meeting was held today in hope many protestors may have gone on holiday. The closure of Ysgol Pontfadog was the only item on the agenda and is one of only three meetings taking place this month.

He said: At the outset I would like to say it gives me no pleasure to deliver this statement. I understand the financial and workload pressures.

You can see the exceptionally high number of written objections. On that point can I draw a point to the way pre-prepared letters were negatively presented in the report.

They are misrepresented to delegitimise opposition to the proposed closure. It suggests a small number of people were asked to sign a letter with little input. The vast majority of template letters were drawn up with face to face meetings with key stakeholders in the village.

1300 people in the community sought and chose this way. Individuals chose issues they felt most strongly and consulted open.

Many planning applications are deemed worthy of a site visit. But the huge matter of closing a school not given similar courtesy.

A challenge over todays report from Cllr Trevor Bates, who argues that pre-prepared letters from residents submitted during consultation process have been negatively presented.  Wrexham.com (@wrexham) August 7, 2018

Tying up his speech, Cllr Bates called on lead members to not press ahead with Ysgol Pontfadog closure  stating that doing so will disrespect democracy and the will of the people in the Ceiriog Valley.

Such sentiments were echoed by Cllr Graham Rogers, who said board members were perusing the outcome that they wanted and had ignored the responses from the public consultation.

He added that by forcing children to speak Welsh now who dont want to will have an impact on them in their future lives.

However Cllr Wynn said that nothing has been spoken today that has made me change my mind that the recommendations Im making is not the sound one.

He added: I have had to reflect on the response to the statutory notice and also the facts and evidence contained within. I want to deliver a sustainable model for all children in the Ceiriog Valley, not just the interests of 18 children who are at Ysgol Pontfadog.

In my opinion to deliver sustainability for years to come, there is no alternative but to go for option three. I am happy to affirm the recommendations moved.

In a debate that lasted almost three hours and several impassioned pleas from residents and councillors, executive board members voted unanimously in favour of closing the school from September 2019.

There were cries of shame, whitewash and Im ashamed to be a resident of Wrexham from the public gallery as the eight executive board members present  Cllr Hugh Jones, Cllr Terry Evans, Cllr Joan Lowe, Cllr Bill Baldwin, Cllr Andrew Atkinson, Cllr David Griffiths, Cllr David A Bithell and Cllr Phil Wynn  voted unanimously in favour of discontinuing the school.

You can view the debate in full on the councils webcasting system here.
Fire service called to lorry fire in Llandegla

This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Aug 7th, 2018

Firefighters were this afternoon called to to a vehicle fire in Llandegla.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service were called to the blaze on the A525, toward Oneplanet Adventure, shortly before 3pm.

Reports of the fire on the A525 towards Oneplanet Adventure were made shortly before 3pm this afternoon.

Sian told Wrexham.com that a wagon was on fire in the area and that cars were turning around.

A spokesperson for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed firefighters had been called in to a lorry fire on the stretch of road.

One crew from Wrexham is in attendance at the blaze, two hose reel jets and breathing apparatus used to extinguish the fire.

Shortly before 8:30pm Casey tweeted us the following update:

The road by the One Planet is still blocked now. Avoid at all costs!  Casey (@caseywatmore) August 7, 2018

More information when we have it.

*Images featured above sent to Wrexham.com by Peter
Vic Studios calls out for votes to bag a share of Tesco funds

This article is old - Published: Tuesday, Aug 7th, 2018

A Wrexham based community music project has been shortlisted for a massive cash boost from a community funding scheme.

The Vic Studios, based at the Victoria Centre on Hill Street, is bidding to bag the funding from the Tesco Bags of Help initiative.

Tesco teamed up with Groundwork to launch its community funding scheme, which sees grants of 4,000, 2,000 and 1,000 raised from carrier bag sales in Tesco stores awarded to local community projects.

Three groups in every Tesco region have been shortlisted to receive the cash award and shoppers are being invited to head along to Tesco stores to vote for who they think should take away the top grant.

Now the team at the Vic Studios are calling on the public to help them secure the funding.

The Vic Studios are a non-profit organisation which helps young people in Wrexham build their confidence, prospects and sense of well-being through music. It was set up by local people to save Vic Studios after it was closed in September 2015 by Wrexham County Borough Council as part of a wider programme of cost savings.

Director, Caroline Richards, said: This Tesco Bags of Help grant will mean we can help those who need it most to access our services free of charge. They can choose something to suit them, including learning the guitar or drums, DJing or Rapping, singing or making a video.*

So, please vote for us!

Voting is open in the Wrexham Tesco store from 1 September until 31 October and customers will cast their vote using a token given to them at the check-out in store each time they shop.

Tescos Bags of Help project has already delivered over 56 million to more than 16,000 projects across Britain. Tesco customers get the chance to vote for three different groups every time they shop. Every other month, when votes are collected, three groups in each of Tescos regions will be awarded funding.

Alec Brown, head of community at Tesco, said: Bags of Help has been a fantastic success and weve been overwhelmed by the response from customers.

Its such a special scheme because its local people who decide how the money will be spent in their community. There are some fantastic projects on the shortlists and we cant wait to see these come to life in hundreds of communities.

Groundworks National Chief Executive, Graham Duxbury, said: Bags of Help continues to enable local communities up and down Britain to improve the local spaces and places that matter to them.

The diversity of projects that are being funded shows that local communities have a passion to create something great in their area. We are pleased to be able to be a part of the journey and provide support and encouragement to help local communities thrive.

Funding is available to community groups and charities looking to fund local projects that bring benefits to communities.

Anyone can nominate a project and organisations can apply online. To find out more visit www.tesco.com/bagsofhelp.

*All sessions take place at Vic Studios on Hill Street in Wrexham town centre (contact Michael on 07764 561333).
Angry Kanchanpur residents protest against rapes and murders of victims

Growing incidents of rape have terrorised girls and women of Kanchanpur. Five rape cases were reported in the district in the last one month. Two of the victims were murdered after rape.
Dark clouds from the deepening US-China conflicts and their potentially disastrous economic fallout for the region were evident at the meeting on Saturday in Singapore, hosted by the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The annual event brought together ministers from 26 countries and the European Union, for talks on political and security issues in the Asia-Pacific.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo used the occasion to warn Russia, China and others against any breach of US-led sanctions that North Korea still faces, despite the supposed success of the June 12 summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

Any violation that detracts from the worlds goal of finally fully denuclearising North Korea would be something that America would take very seriously, Pompeo told journalists in Singapore.

Underscoring his threat, the Trump administration announced new sanctions on Friday against a Russian bank, accusing it of helping the North Korean regime facilitate illicit financial activity and, as a result, develop its nuclear weapons program.

Pompeo called specifically for countries to stop ship-to-ship transfers of petrol to North Korea. Cutting off fuel to Pyongyang would require enforcement, primarily by China, which supplies most of North Koreas energy needs.

Pompeos declarations underscore the fact that the June 12 summit had nothing to do with peace. It launched a US bid to lure North Korea away from its erstwhile alliance with Beijing, in order to use the small state as a platform against China, backed by the ever-present threat of US military aggression.

In response, North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho denounced the US for making alarming moves, including raising its voice louder for maintaining the sanctions against his country. Ri reiterated Pyongyangs insistence that denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula must happen phase by phase, that is, with reciprocal moves by the US to lift sanctions and guarantee his countrys safety.

Pompeos ultimatum came on top of escalating trade measures against China. In a series of tweets on Saturday, as the ASEAN event was winding up, Trump boasted that his administrations tariffs against China were working far better than anyone ever anticipated and would make the US much richer than it is today. He claimed that the US market was stronger than ever, while the Chinese market has dropped 27 percent in the last 4 months, and they are talking to us.

Trumps message was blunt: the US will continue its offensive to damage and cut down the economy of China, which the US ruling class regards as the greatest threat to its post-World War II global hegemony.

Since the White House launched the trade war, the two governments have imposed 25 percent tariffs on $34 billion worth of each others imports. Trump has threatened 25 percent tariffs on another $200 billion of Chinese products, and possibly on all $500 billions worth of annual imports. Beijing has countered with a list of $60 billion of imports from the US that may be subject to additional 5 to 25 percent tariffs.

These developments are causing alarm throughout Southeast Asian capitals, which depend heavily on exports to China, as well as trade and investment with the US.

Malaysian Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah told reporters that he had informed Pompeo in a one-on-one meeting that Asian countries like Malaysia are quite nervous on the possible negative repercussion of the ongoing trade war.

Singaporean Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan told a post-ASEAN meeting media conference that any trade war or unilateral sanctions would have a disproportionate impact on Singapore.

Aggravating these anxieties are fears that China may devalue its currency to counteract the US attacks. This would apply intense cost pressures to the regions economies that supply components to Chinese factories, as well as undermine Chinese tourism and investment throughout Southeast Asia.

The Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported on August 4: If China is pushed to devalue its currency, observers say the only reaction in Southeast Asian capitals from Kuala Lumpur to Hanoi, Bangkok and Jakarta will be panic.

Since April, the Chinese yuan has slid almost 8 percent against the US dollar, but that fall would be even greater if Beijing actively drives it down.

Piyush Gupta, the chief executive of Southeast Asias largest bank, the DBS Group, told CNBC: The fact that people are uncertain about where this is going creates a degree of lower confidence and that results in  animal spirits in the region coming off. Gupta used the phrase coined by economist John Maynard Keynes, referring to market confidence.

The trade impact has begun to hit the region, although only marginally so far. Singapore and Malaysia each face their economic growth dropping by 0.3 percent by the end of the year, even without any ramped-up US tariffs, according to the Singapore-based Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp.

Confronted by Washingtons America First protectionism, ASEANs foreign ministers sought to accelerate a decades-old effort to establish a Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The trade bloc would include ASEAN countries, along with China, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, India and South Korea, but not the US.

The ASEAN communique pointedly depicted the RCEP as a shield against protectionism. It stated: We reiterated the priority placed by ASEAN on the RCEP as a centrepiece of its external economic relations, particularly at a time of growing uncertainty in global trade.

In another sign of rising antagonisms, two large economies, both formal US allies, condemned protectionism. Japan backed calls to conclude the RCEP by the end of the year. Given the current global situation where protectionism is on the rise, Japan would like to achieve the swift conclusion of the RCEP, Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono said.

South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha warned that rising anti-globalisation and trade protectionism among major countries is fueling tension and threatening our aspiration for sustained economic growth.

Aggressive US moves to challenge Chinese occupation of islets in the South China Sea also pushed regional governments to conclude a pact to fend off possible military clashes in the strategic waterway. China and ASEAN announced an agreement on an initial draft of a regional code of conduct after 16 years of sporadic talks on rival territorial claims.

Chinese and ASEAN diplomats are now due to meet in Cambodia this month, or in September, to be followed by another meeting in the Philippines, to start actual negotiations to settle border disputes.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said that without disturbances from the outside, the negotiations would shift to a fast track. China has accused the US, which has deployed aircraft carriers, warships and fighter jets into the disputed waters, of intervening in disputes between neighbouring states.

Singapore Foreign Affairs Minister Balakrishnan described the draft code of conduct as a significant milestone. A reporter asked whether ASEAN was at risk of becoming an arena of big power rivalry. Balakrishnan noted that the question suggested ASEAN members would end up being proxy states entangled in the diplomatic, strategic and defence entanglements of the superpowers.

We have no intention of allowing that to happen, he said. And hence, we have ASEAN. Whatever the manoeuvres of the regional ruling classes, however, the entire Indo-Pacific region and its several billion people are being inexorably drawn into the cauldron of the US drive to combat Chinas rise.
In a tweet and television interview, Ecuadorian President Lenin Moreno has declared he will take measures against WikiLeaks editor Julian Assange unless he stops intervening in the politics and affairs of countries.

Morenos tweet yesterday stated: To Mr. Assange we have put a condition: That he stop intervening in politics and self-determination of the country. Otherwise, measures will be taken.

These measures can only mean forcing Assange out of Ecuadors London embassy, to be immediately arrested by the British police and imprisoned, pending extradition proceedings by the Trump administration.

Morenos talk about Assange intervening in the politics of other countries is absurd. The journalist has been totally gagged by the Ecuadorian government: he has been denied all visitors and has had his internet access blocked by electronic jammers. To talk about Assange intervening in the politics of other governments under these conditions is nothing but a cynical attempt to create a pretext for handing him over to the notorious war criminals in Washington and London.

These measures are aimed at denying basic political free speech to Assange and WikiLeaks, the best-known site in the world for exposing the war crimes, coup plots and mass surveillance of the US government and its allies.

The demand for non-interference essentially means to permit these crimes to continue, and worsen, under conditions in which the Trump administrations belligerent America First trade war measures and military threats point to the danger of another world war.

It is also a violation of the very principle of the political asylum that Ecuador granted Assange in 2012 when he entered the countrys London embassy to avoid being extradited to Sweden and then to the US to face likely espionage, conspiracy and breach of secrecy charges.

The Ecuadorian president, who is desperately seeking close relations with Washington and US investment, seems to be trying to condition public opinion in Ecuador and internationally for Assanges imminent eviction from the embassy.

Moreno elaborated on his threat in an interview broadcast on Sunday night by Univision, a US Spanish-language television network. On Assanges possible removal from the embassy, Moreno said: It is a problem that we inherited; Assange has problems with the English justice system, with the justice system of the United States. Our principal concern has been to protect his integrity, his human rights and fundamentally his life. Ecuador does not have the death penalty and we would be unable to deliver Mr. Assange to a country where he could be sentenced to death 

We have placed Mr. Assange under conditions that stop him from intervening in the politics, in the economy, in the self-determination of every people and principally those of friendly countries, because otherwise, we will make a decision.

These comments follow Morenos explicit statement last week that his government was willing to hand over Assange to Britain to be extradited to the US, provided only that the authorities in Washington offered what would be a worthless promise not to assassinate Assange or seek the death penalty against him.

While pretending to be trying to save Assanges life, Moreno has made it clear since he was installed as president in May last year that he regards Assange as a problem he inherited from his predecessor Rafael Correa, who had adopted a more left-wing posture. For months, Moreno and his ministers have been conducting closed-door talks with the US and British administrations on ways and means to hand Assange over to them.

On Spanish- and Catalan-language news sites, Morenos Univision interview was placed in the context of Assanges condemnation of the Spanish governments repression of Catalan voters and leaders in March. Ecuadors government cut off Assanges internet and other communications with the outside world, placing him in solitary political confinement, after WikiLeaks denounced Germany for taking Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont as a political prisoner at Spains request.

Moreno made an official state visit to Spain last week, after a trip to Britain, seeking to forge ties to the European imperialist powers. However, his threats, and the now three-month-old isolation of Assange clearly seek to protect the governments of all the friendly countries that Moreno is trying to please. Above all, Morenos actions are aimed at accommodating himself to the requirements of the US ruling class.

Another inherited problem for Moreno appears to be that Ecuadors previous foreign minister granted Assange Ecuadorian citizenship in a failed bid to arrange a way for the WikiLeaks editor to leave the embassy without being immediately detained by the British government.

In a recent podcast, Intercept journalist Glenn Greenwald reported he had been in contact with Assanges lawyers as well as the Ecuadorian government in recent weeks, and said Ecuador has been under pressure for months from Spain, Britain and the US over Assange.

Greenwald said Moreno was ready to finalise an agreement to hand over Assange and withdraw asylum, but may be wanting to first retroactively rescind Assanges citizenship, because the Ecuadorian-UK extradition treaty contains restrictions on turning citizens over.

There is no doubt as to why the Trump administration, like the Obama administration, is intent on silencing Assange and WikiLeaks for good. Before being granted asylum in 2012, Assange coordinated a series of highly-revealing document dumps through WikiLeaks, including the 2007 release of secret military hardware used by US forces in Afghanistan, the 2010 collateral murder video of US aerial killings in Iraq, and the 2010 release of 250,000 incriminating State Department cables, widely known as Cablegate. There was also the 2011 publication of Guantanamo Bay prison details.

Despite Assange being trapped inside Ecuadors embassy since 2012, the damaging leaks have continued, including 400,000 classified files about the illegal invasion of Iraq and, more recently, huge troves of files exposing the computer hacking operations of the CIA.

Leading figures in the Trump administration have made no secret of their determination to get their hands on Assange. In April, US Attorney General Jeff Sessions again declared: We are going to step up our efforts and already are stepping up our efforts on all leaks. We will seek to put some people in jail.

Despite Assange being an Australian citizen, successive Australian governments, starting with Julia Gillards Labor administration in 2010, have colluded closely with the US authorities and refused to secure his release from the threat of extradition to the US.

In Australia, the Socialist Equality Party is the only political party campaigning for Assanges defence, which is part of the broader fight necessary for the defence of all fundamental democratic rights. A globally-broadcast rally conducted by the SEP, with the support of investigative journalist John Pilger, in Sydneys Town Hall Square on June 17, demanded that the Australian government secure Assanges right to return to Australia, if he so wishes, with guarantees that he not be handed over to the US.

The Australian governments refusal to meet its obligation to defend a citizen underscores the necessity to build a working class movement to secure Assanges freedom, against the political, trade union and media establishment that has abandoned him. As part of this campaign, we urge our readers to join protests if Assange is forced from Ecuadors embassy and then faces a protracted struggle against plans to extradite him to the United States.

The author also recommends:

Resolution of the SEP (US) Fifth National Congress: Free Julian Assange!

[2 August 2018]

The Campaign to Free Julian Assange
Ricardo Robles, the Left Bloc representative on the Portuguese capital of Lisbons 17-member municipal council, resigned last week after revelations that he made a fortune from property speculation.

Robles and his brother took part in the get-rich-quick stampede to gentrify the capitals oldest and poorest district, Alfama. They bought a prime run-down state-owned historic property for a paltry 350,000 in 2014 and then this year put it on the market for a whopping 5.7 million.

At first, Robles tried to ride out the criticisms, holding a press conference on July 27 at the Left Blocs headquarters where he declared: There is nothing deplorable in my conduct. Property speculator Robles was defended by the head of the Left Bloc, Catarina Martins, who insisted he had done nothing illegal and that he was victim of a journalistic and political witch-hunt. He was given a vote of confidence by the partys leadership.

By July 29 and amidst mounting pressure, Robles was forced to resign. He made a pathetic attempt to explain that the huge profit he had accrued revealed a real political problem and created a huge constraint to his work as a councillor. He claimed that he had not evicted anyone and had maintained a low-income tenant. He then announced that he was withdrawing from the sale of his property and that he would take control of how it was rented.

The following Tuesday, Martins told reporters the Left Bloc leadership had made an error of analysis by backing Robles, claiming the contradiction was very great and created a daily obstacle between his business interests and his party work. The fact that Martins admitted, without batting an eye, that Robless real estate deal was never a topic of conversation between them speaks volumes about the opportunism of the Left Bloc.

The whole episode surrounding Robles stinks and reveals, once again, the hypocritical self-seeking nature of the upper middle class constituency that forms the social basis of the pseudo-left.

At the time of writing, the front page of the Left Blocs esquerda.net website was still promoting its fraudulent campaign, Stop Evictions, Change the Law, Fight Speculation (Parar os Despejos, Mudar a Lei, Combater a Especulacao) on its front page. It claims the party is on the streets with proposals to stop evictions, to make the law of fairer tenancy and combating real estate speculation. Whilst he was busy nurturing his property portfolio, Robles was regularly contributing to esquerda.net.

Robles wasnt just some lowly official tempted by a quick buck; he was a Left Bloc spokesperson and a Lisbon mayoral candidate. His speciality was railing against the eviction of the working class from central Lisbon in order to pave the way for gentrification.

Demonstrating Robless cynicism, in October 2015 he complained on esquerda.net about Lisbons housing crisis and the role of the then-Socialist Party (PS) mayor, Antonio Costa, who is now prime minister of a PS minority government being kept in power courtesy of the Left Bloc and Communist Party/Green Party Unitary Democratic Coalition. As mayor, Costa set about deregulating and privatising the citys administration for the benefit of capitalist entrepreneurs, the tourist trade and what was called the global creative class.

Robles said at the time: In the last 30 years Lisbon lost 260,000 inhabitants. There are 50,000 vacant houses in the city. Enticing these people back to the city has been the priority of priorities. The strategy followed was precisely the opposite and failed. Antonio Costa looked at the city as a financial asset.  No respect for those who live and work here and all respect for capital.

On April 6, 2016, Robles returned to the subject, declaring: The expulsion of residents from the city centre, whilst not being recent, has accelerated in recent years. The strategy of urban regeneration sustained by speculation and exploitation of tourism has consequences. The price of homes in the historic centre rose by 22% in 2015. The expulsion of tenants, mostly elderly and economically unprotected, for the installation of hotels has been the rule.  The process of gentrification of the city is spreading in the historic centre.

Then, once again on April 15, 2017, he wrote ten years of urban deregulation, a monoculture of hotels and record sales of municipal heritage had become, in terms of housing...a lost decade.

According to Antonio Machado, president of the Rental Association in Lisbona city of half a million residents that saw 6 million visitors last year: We have seen a transformation of housing from residences for families to short-term rentalsprivate houses rented out for tourism that, in some areas, caused rent price to rise by 30-40% over the last few years, which is practically unbearable for local Portuguese people. The phenomenon has led to the term terramotourism or tourism earthquake.

The growth of Airbnb rentals has been explosive, with one street in Alfama hosting 230 lets. The average daily rate of 85 is far more profitable than traditional, long-term rental solutions, which have also risen inexorably in price. The average monthly rent in Lisbon is around 900, or almost equal to the average gross salary.

The huge growth in real estate values also forces less well-off sections of the population to become part of the gentrifier process, as they seek to find a place for themselves in the face of rapidly rising rents and house prices. The young, flocking to the cities for work, also become part of this trend.

Gentrification or, more correctly, social cleansing, reflects the relentless growth of inequality. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa was forced to admit as much earlier this year, declaring that poverty is the national shame of Portugal and that it is one of the most unequal countries in Europe. He trotted out the regular mantra that what was needed was an autonomous national strategy to combat poverty once and for all.

The current social cleansing of cities across Europe, the US and globally has accelerated in the years since the 2008 crash. This process has been aggravated by the vast sums of money that have been pumped into the financial markets by the central banks as part of quantitative easing, which has made cheap money available for speculation in real estate.

Growing inequality and social cleansing is inevitable as long as housing remains a market commodity rather than a social right. The right to a decent and affordable place to live can only be met through a socialist programme.

The role of the Left Bloc is to attempt to prevent the working class and youth adopting such a perspective. It has sought to channel mass disaffection that erupted after the 2008 economic crashand expressed in the record-low 57 percent turnout in the 2015 general electionbehind the discredited Socialist Party, while integrating its petty-bourgeois social base into official and, as the Robles case shows, lucrative bourgeois politics.
In over 30 cities in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, thousands of people took to the streets on Saturday to demonstrate in favor of welcoming refugees to Europe and against the criminalization of emergency rescue workers at sea and the shutting of Europes borders. The numerous local protests were called by the SealiftCreate safe harbors alliance.

Over recent weeks, protests have taken place in dozens of cities that have been much larger than the organizers anticipated. Some 10,000 people took to the streets in Berlin in early July, while protests and minutes of silence were held in Frankfurt and other cities to commemorate drowned refugees.

A part of the demonstration in Leipzig

In spite of the extreme heat, many people responded this past weekend across the country to calls for demonstrations, which were often spread via Facebook. Seven hundred people gathered in Dortmund, while there were 500 in Kiel and 400 in Braunschweig. Around 500 people turned out in Mainz, even though it was the second demonstration within three weeks. Further protests are planned in other cities into September.

Meanwhile, the European governments are intensifying their crackdown on refugees seeking to reach Europe by crossing the Mediterranean. In a flagrant violation of international law, an Italian merchant ship returned more than 100 people to Libya on July 30. It is now known that only one in four of the refugees who leave Libya reach Italy. Some 71 percent are brought back to Libya. The remainder are considered missing, with most drowning at sea.

At one of the largest demonstrations, in Leipzig, reporters for the WSWS spoke with participants about the situation facing refugees and the sharp shift to the right within the ruling class. According to the organizers, some 2,000 people gathered in the city, the majority being young people and families.

Aziz, who fled the Middle East, said he felt it was important to be at the protest because there are large numbers of people who have spent the summer and winter in Greece, Turkey, Serbia and Hungary at the border. They have nowhere to live and are stuck. Some of them live in the forest, he said. They urgently require help. I am very happy to see this support for refugees from so many Germans, he added.

Aziz

Aziz is originally from Syria and fled to Europe through Turkey. He assisted a group of refugees who spoke only Arabic and were lost due to their inability to communicate.

Asked whether the attacks on refugees were an international problem, Aziz responded, This issue has no borders! This is not a local problem, he explained, but something that concerns people around the world. The refugees are just normal people. They have ordinary lives, go to work, go shopping, and have families, he said.

He said the military interventions in the Middle East and North Africa were responsible for the refugee crisis. They gave rise to political conflicts and wars. Anyone studying the history of his region, Aziz continued, would see that every five years a new war begins. These wars are supported by international arms companies that provide munitions. To deal with these conflicts, Aziz stated, the major countries, which are in any case interested only in oil and gas reserves, would have to keep out.

Aziz rejected the German governments claim that there are safe countries of origin. In his opinion, it is wrong to send refugees back to war zones. Its absolutely unacceptable that refugees are distinguished according to where they come from, or what their political or economic situation is.

The WSWS also spoke to Nolte Bauer, a crew member with Mission LifeLine. He explained how the project was initiated in 2015.

Nolte Bauer

The LifeLine developed out of the Dresden-Balkan Convoy, which operated on the Balkan route when it still existed, he said. The groups response to the closure of the Balkan route was to purchase a ship and become active in rescuing refugees at sea.

He reported on the terrible situation confronting refugees, They come from a country, Libya, where they are detained by people smugglers. Entire families are blackmailed to give up their money. An acquaintance reported that he had been covered in oil and photographed by a gang so as to threaten his family that he would be burnt alive. This is also enforced by beatings, knives and weapons, Bauer said. Some people get lost and drift at sea for several days, while others try several times to make the crossing, only to be recaptured.

The situation for refugees is now deteriorating sharply. Following the closure of the Balkan route, the EU also closed the Aegean Sea to refugees by reaching an agreement with Turkey. The route from Libya to Italy is also practically closed, reported Nolte. He said he expected that the route would now shift to Morocco and Spain, which would be even more dangerous due to the tides coming in from the Atlantic and the higher waves they create.

Emergency rescue at sea is part of international law, which states that each ship is responsible for rescuing people from a vessel in an emergency. The crew of the LifeLine has always operated within the law and is now being unilaterally blocked by Italy, Nolte said.

This shift to the right is not a new phenomenon, he added. Europe and the entire first world has long exploited Africa. It is only logical that the subsidized markets put African workers under pressure, prevent them from earning money, and force them to look elsewhere for work. It is hardly surprising that there are so many refugees given such economic and trading practices, and given the incitement of and support for new wars, he said.

Asked about the international character of the attacks on refugees, Nolte said that the weak are always played off against the weakest by the powerful. Thus far, the EU has always portrayed itself as a Nobel Peace Prize winner, and criticized the wall to be built on the border with Mexico. But then you look at the Balkans and see barbed wire and walls. Domestically, theyre doing the same thing. They just criticize things from a distance and are only concerned with maintaining their image.

He said his crew were aware that their sea rescue efforts do not resolve the fundamental problem. Conditions have to be created where people no longer feel the need to get into boats and risk such a dangerous crossing, he said. Everyone now has to influence politics and participate in these demonstrations.
Tika R Pradhan is a senior political correspondent for the Post, covering politics, parliament, judiciary and social affairs. Pradhan joined the Post in 2016 after working at The Himalayan Times for more than a decade.
The official death toll from an earthquake that struck the Indonesian island of Lombok on Sunday night was raised to 98 this morning.

With at least several hundred others still missing, the number of fatalities could rise over the coming days. Some 269 people were injured, some with severe head wounds and broken bones.

Residents told the media they are terrified that the ordeal may not be over. Lombok has been struck by more than 100 aftershocks, and another 5.2 magnitude earthquake last night.

The main quake, with a magnitude of 6.9, struck on Sunday evening. The hardest-hit areas were in the north and interior regions of Lombok, which has a population of roughly 3.2 million. The island was previously hit by a quake on July 29, which killed at least 16 people and destroyed dozens of homes.

The latest disaster flattened an estimated 13,000 homes and structures. Residents and journalists described frightening scenes. In towns and villages across the island, locals rushed from falling structures.

Government authorities initially issued a tsunami alert, prompting widespread fear and leading thousands to leave their homes in search of higher ground.

The full extent of the damage remains unclear, especially in remote areas. Zul Ashfi, the humanitarian coordinator for the Islamic Relief charity, told the Guardian that scenes on the island were catastrophic.

I saw people fleeing for their lives, screaming for help into their mobile phones as they ran, Ashfi said. It was very traumatic. They are now sleeping in the open air and have nothing. We are now working against the clock to reach as many people in need as we can.

Imam, a resident of Mataram, the largest city on Lombok, told Agence Presse France: Everyone immediately ran out of their homes, everyone is panicking. Large sections of the city, which has a population of almost half a million, were reportedly severely damaged or completely levelled.

Much of Mataram is without power, and numbers of patients have been evacuated from the main hospital. Elsewhere on the island, rescue crews have only begun to survey the damage. A number of areas have been cut off from all communications. There are warnings that the damage may have impacted upon water supplies, prompting fears of disease outbreaks.

In an indication of the possible scale of death and destruction, up to 40 people are believed to have died when a mosque collapsed in the village of Lading-Lading.

On the neighbouring island of Bali, numbers of buildings were damaged. Thousands of tourists, anxious to leave, have been stranded on both islands. Air travel and other means of transport have been affected.

Already, there are indications that the disasters impact has been compounded by inadequate planning and resources, despite the profits and revenues generated by tourism.

Between 20,000 and 80,000 Lombok residents have been displaced. The bulk of them appear to have been forced to fend for themselves. Others have moved to makeshift relief camps, with many living in tents.

Thomas Howells, a program coordinator for the Save the Children charity, told PBS: Peoples houses have been destroyed and they dont want to leave their belongings. So theyre sitting outside their houses.

The rescue effort is being hampered by limited relief equipment. Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a representative of Indonesias official disaster agency, told the Guardian yesterday that relief and rescue operations were restricted by a shortage of heavy-lifting and earth-moving equipment. As a result, Sutopo said, some rescuers had been forced to dig by hand.

In comments to CNN Indonesia, Sutopo pointed to lax building practices and codes as being a factor in the scale of the damage. He noted that the vast majority of the structures that had been destroyed in Lombok were residential.

The problem is that Indonesians do not have houses that are earthquake resistant especially for people in rural villages with weak economic conditions, Sutopo said. No government regulations required residential dwellings to be built to earthquake-resistant standards, he added, and many construction workers were not aware of building practices required to mitigate damage.

The lack of building safety is striking, given that Indonesia is one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world, sitting atop the Ring of Fire, characterised by shifting tectonic plates.

The earthquakes impact underscores the deepening social divide in Indonesia. Last year, Oxfam ranked it as the sixth most unequal country in the world. The four richest individuals have a combined wealth greater than the poorest 100 million people. Most surveys indicate that around a quarter of Lomboks people live below the countrys meager poverty line.

On Monday, Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced he had ordered the coordination of all government departments for rescue and relief efforts.

Widodos government fears that the disaster could become a focal point of broader anger over social inequality and poverty, amid ongoing political instability. Widodo has ordered police and military officers to be deployed to the hardest-hit regions. They will inevitably clamp down on any opposition or anger from local residents.

Widodo declared that the victims would be compensated, but did not give any concrete figures. As in previous disasters, those worst-affected will likely be given a token sum that will do nothing to rebuild their homes, or their lives.

Indonesian government dignitaries and foreign representatives, including senior ministers from Australia, Singapore and elsewhere, were in Lombok for a regional conference on counter-terrorism. Along with the wealthiest layers in Lombok, they were shielded from the disaster in quake-proof hotel buildings and shelters. The vast majority of ordinary people, however, were trapped in poorly-built and dangerous dwellings.
In Memphis, Tennessee, a federal lawsuit has revealed city police are spying on an ever-growing list of activists and individuals. As the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) prepares for an upcoming trial with the Memphis Police Department, new revelations about the nature and scale of the law enforcement agencys spying operations have come to light.

The ACLU of Tennessee joined a lawsuit against the City of Memphis filed with the US District Court for the Western District of Tennessee in March 2017. Its lawyers accused the police department of spying on local protesters in violation of a consent decree dating back to 1978 prohibiting the city from collecting political intelligence against individuals or organizations. The lawsuit asks only for the court to find the city in contempt of court for violating the consent decree and for safeguards to be put in place to ensure it is followed in the future.

The consent decree was the outcome of opposition to police spying on Civil Rights activists associated with Martin Luther King, Jr., who was assassinated in Memphis in 1968. In 1965, police infiltrated anti-Vietnam War protests at the citys federal building as well as city garbage workers unionization meetings. Through its Domestic Intelligence Unit, the citys police spied on churches, teachers, university students and any other group that police thought ripe for dissent.

Forty years after the consent decree was established, the ACLU lawsuit reveals the existence of a City Hall Escort List created by Memphis police of Black Lives Matter activists, to be flagged by police if they set foot on City Hall grounds. The first people on the list were activists engaged in a protest outside the mayors home, who were to be targeted for arrest if they were subsequently seen on city property.

After deposing key police officials and collecting hundreds of pages of documented evidence, the ACLU suit makes clear that the secret list is only the tip of the iceberg in terms of the surveillance activities undertaken. A July 27 Citylab report noted a number of previously undisclosed police spying measures.

The City Hall Escort List not only identified certain Black Lives Matter-affiliated activists, but it also marked so-called associates in fact. Anyone connected on social media to BLM activists, those with prior arrests, or often seen at unlawful assemblies could be fingered as associates. The police definition of an unlawful assembly is left unclarified in the document.

The spying extended far beyond Memphis city limits. Police prepared joint intelligence briefs, or JIBs, initially focused on protests against police violence within Memphis. The Citylab report notes that the JIBs quickly became a dossier of any kind of anti-police violence activity happening across the nation, namely any of the organizations that arose out of Ferguson or that were part of the Black Lives Matter network, even it had nothing to do with Memphis.

The JIBs included photographs of protesters and those who merely posted online about taking possible protest action. Dozens of police-operated SkyCop cameras installed throughout the city monitor and record activities of people below; the city council has declared the cameras immune to the terms of the consent decree. Police also use footage collected from body-cams to cull images of protesters.

The profiles also included private information such as drivers license details, mental health histories, and juvenile arrest records. Police have additional powers to unlock peoples cell phones and track people via license plate numbers.

The JIBs reports were sent to Shelby County sheriff and government officials, as well as an inexplicably wide variety of other organizations. At the state and federal levels, the Tennessee Department of Homeland Security, the US Department of Justice and Pentagon received briefings.

The Shelby County school district, the Memphis Light, Gas, & Water municipal utility company, and the Tennessee Valley Authority electricity utility company were also provided the briefings. Private corporations FedEx and Autozone, both headquartered in Memphis, were likewise informed of protest activities. It is highly likely that such information in the hands of utilities, schools, and major employers is used to blacklist and discriminate against those engaged in political activism.

The police used software to search and collate online chatter about planned protests. In an even more invasive move, police used a fake social media account under the name Bob Smith to befriend and correspond with people whose social media profiles were set as private. Police used software to create a map of associations between activists, spouses, and anyone liking posts targeted for spying.

According to the Citylab report, Undercover and plain-clothed officers used this intel to monitor African American-hosted events and activities even if they werent protestslike flash mob dance rallies. Among the events the police monitored in stealth mode: several black church meetings; a memorial service for Darrius Stewart, a teenager who was shot and killed by a Memphis police officer in 2015; a black-owned food truck festival; and a gathering at a local park where an organization gave out free book bags and school supplies to students.

The information we got about just how the police were monitoring protesters both through social media and surveillance, and through undercover means, was not something we anticipated when we filed the lawsuit, ACLU of Tennessee Legal Director Thomas H. Castelli told Citylab.

We knew they were using social media collators, but we didnt know how they were using them. The use of covert social media accounts to friend people [on Facebook], or to break through open source barriers to find out more information from individuals was somewhat surprising to us.

The Memphis Commercial Appeal reported that police had been tracking Black Lives Matter protesters since 2016, even when they appeared at events such as a vigil for Elvis Presley. Police claimed that activists were secretly hijacking public groups with the intention to cause violence and destroy property using these public venues.

City officials have insisted that the 1978 consent decree is outdated in the Internet age, and that privacy laws do not apply. In a written statement, Memphis Chief Legal Officer Bruce McMullen declared that his departments extensive political surveillance operation was nothing more than good police work. The city insists that the lawsuits interpretation of that 40-year old consent decree is out of step with modern police techniques. The consent decree was drafted before the Internetbefore smartphones, body cameras, or any type of digital cameras.

The scale of spying revealed in Memphis is of a piece with the mass surveillance operations revealed by NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden and in the Vault 7 documents published by WikiLeaks. Intelligence agencies at the federal level, working with agencies including the Department of Homeland Security, the Transportation Security Administration, ICE, and the DEA, as well as state and local agencies, have crafted a ubiquitous surveillance operation against the American public.

Homeland Security and the FBI have targeted Black Lives Matter protesters across the country since the organization emerged after Michael Brown was shot by police in Ferguson, Missouri, in 2014. In the past year, anti-police violence activists have been accused of being Russian stooges in an attempt to tie domestic opposition to foreign meddling.

The purpose of extensive surveillance is to monitor, chill, and ultimately crack down on the growth of opposition in the working class to the actions of the government and the police.

Memphis, the poorest large metropolitan area in the United States, is a city ripe for an eruption of working class struggles in opposition to social inequality, intolerable living conditions, and state-sanctioned brutality. That African American anti-police violence protesters are the first on the list is a sign that politicians have given a free hand to the police to build up their repressive apparatus to be used against the entire working class.

The ACLUs lawsuit against Memphis police is scheduled to proceed August 20, after the end of the discovery period.
The Mexican president-elect, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO), has announced a populist measure for a one-time debt forgiveness for households owing to the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE), the largest electricity distributor in Mexico.

The move is aimed at concealing the right-wing character of his administration, while at the same time preparing for future utility shutoffs, attacks against electrical workers pensions and further moves to privatize the CFE under the pretext of fighting against corruption.

AMLOs vague statement on July 31 made it appear as though millions of indebted households across the country would be granted much-needed relief: From this July 1 going back there will be a new, just, and differentiated rate. The poorest will pay less, and electricity used for industrial purposes will be higher, but not more than they pay now.

The one-time move made it clear that future debts would not be forgiven, while saying nothing about maintaining future subsidies or lowering electricity prices. But even this paltry measure was backtracked two days latter, when AMLO noted that, far from the national policy that his original statement had alluded to, the relief would only apply to the small southeastern state of Tabasco, his home state.

Thousands of people in Tabasco have carried out civil resistance against the state government since 1995, when AMLO lost the governorship of the state to future Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) presidential candidate Roberto Madrazo. Declaring the election fraudulent, AMLO advocated refusing to make payments to the state or federal governments as a form of protest. According to the CFE, about half a million users are behind on their electricity bills in the state.

AMLOs limited clean slate avoids the political embarrassment of having to cut off electricity as a result of a maneuver that he formulated and advanced in a previous campaign. AMLOs political stunt is also meant to provide a thinly-veiled left cover for his appointment for the new head of the CFE, Manuel Bartlett.

Bartlett is yet another figure in AMLOs cabinet that will come from previous right-wing PRI administrations. He was a former public education secretary and secretary of the interior in successive Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) administrations in the 1980s and early 1990s.

Bartlett is infamous for his role in the 1988 elections, when he announced a breakdown of the system that was used to rig the elections against Cuahtemoc Cardenas of Authentic Party of the Mexican Revolution (PARM) in favor of Carlos Salinas de Gortari of the PRI.

In 2009, former president Miguel de la Madrid told the New York Times that the PRI had in fact manipulated the elections to ensure its own victory. He added that three years after the election, all paper ballots were burned to eliminate evidence of fraud. In 2017, Bartlett himself acknowledged that Salinas had lost the election. As then-secretary of the interior and president of the Federal Electoral Commission, Bartlett was tasked with overseeing the rigging of the election.

AMLO is well aware of Bartletts political past. The incoming president is a former member of the Party for Democratic Revolution (PRD), which Cardenas launched after the 1988 elections. For a politician whose stock-in-trade has been to rail against stolen elections, AMLO is mute when it comes to elevating a figure who was instrumental in carrying out massive fraud and trampling on the democratic rights of millions of people. When AMLO says that he means to fight corruption, he does not mean jailing and prosecuting the bankers, corporations and politicians who control Mexicos economic and political system.

Rather, he means going after the salaries of rank-and-file government employees, workers pensions, and government debt held by households, states and municipalities. AMLOs administration has vowed to continue the reforms that were supported by all major political parties as an effort to privatize oil, electricity, telecommunications and education. AMLO and Bartlett, who both previously postured as being against the legislation, have since sought to make all the necessary reassurances that the rule of law will be respected.

I was against the energy reforms here in Congress, but the energy reform is working, stated Bartlett shortly after he was named as new CFE director. Andres Manuel has already clearly stated that he will not take up any constitutional reforms, we are going to respect the existing structure that was set up by the energy reforms, and what is currently taking place which are market rules.

The Pena Nieto administration told tall tales of how the energy reforms would lead to thousands of new jobs, lower oil and electricity prices and a new wave of economic growth. Five years later, the only real growth has been the fattening of the financial portfolios of the foreign and domestic financial oligarchy.

The reform has left consumers at the mercy of oil prices, since fuel is the main input for the generation of electricity. From the approval of the legislation in August 2014 to January 2016, CFE prices decreased by about 35 percent, mirroring a decline in oil and natural gas prices. Since then, however, they have increased by 54 percent and are now higher than before the legislation.

The CFE, which was created in 1937 as part of the nationalizations carried out by Lazaro Cardenas, has been steadily privatized since the 1990s. Until five years ago, the CFE was the sole authorized provider of electricity across the country. Now, the CFE participates in an energy market with private companies and has awarded more than 25 contracts to private investors for the production of energy.

The CFE has over 14 billion pesos (over 750 million USD) in debt from states and municipalities and 36 billion pesos (over 1.9 billion USD) in debt from unpaid bills. Finance capital has made it clear that the CFEs debts should come off the backs of workers through debt collections, an end to subsidies and slashing electricity workers pensions.

The CFE reported that it shut off electricity to 216 municipalities between December 2017 and January 2018 alone due to unpaid bills. Meanwhile, the federal government has stated that it would only back CFE workers pensions if the government could negotiate a new contract with the Mexican Oil Workers Union (STPRM). Pension liabilities for both Pemex and CFE amounted to 1.7 trillion pesos (over 91 billion USD), or almost 10 percent of GDP. The Mexican Supreme Audit of the Federation has noted that the number of retirees with pensions will increase by 28 percent during the next 15 years.

As with all major social problems, the demands for affordable electricity, an end to utility shutoffs and fully funded pensions cannot be taken up by any representative of the capitalist class. Even the most basic needs of working people require an expropriation of the wealth of the financial aristocracy, in Mexico and internationally, to guarantee that the resources and technology that humanity already has available can be used to elevate the living standards of the international working class to new heights. This will require the fight for socialism to unite all workers in a fight to overturn the source of their misery, the capitalist system.
The violent intervention by city police against peaceful counter-demonstrators protesting a far-right rally in Portland, Oregon, on Saturday has provoked widespread public outrage. The protesters attacked by the police were marching in opposition to armed, neo-fascist provocateurs assembled under the leadership of Joey Gibson and his Patriot Prayer group.

Some 400 far-right demonstrators convened at Portlands Riverside Park Saturday, wearing black shirts with fascist slogans and carrying signs denouncing immigrants and promoting white nationalism. The group was primarily comprised of members of Patriot Prayer and the Proud Boys, but represented a number of alt-right and other neo-fascist organizations.

The neo-fascist rally drew about 1,000 counter-protesters from a variety of anti-fascist, labor, clergy and other organizations, including the anarchist Antifa group. The counter-protesters chanted We remember Charlottesville, referring to the neo-fascist riot in Charlottesville, Virginia, last year that ended with a neo-Nazi driving his car into a crowd of anti-fascist protesters, killing Heather Heyer and wounding 19 others.

Demonstrators at the Saturday rally held up signs recounting a slew of assaults and murders by the far-right over recent years, including the stabbing to death of Ricky Best and Taliesin Myrddin Namkai-Meche by a white supremacist affiliated with Patriot Prayer onboard a public light rail train in Portland last year. Scattered scuffles broke out between members of the two groups, but the event remained relatively peaceful for several hours.

Dozens of local police in full riot gear stood between the two groups for several hours before police, without warning, declared the counter-demonstration a civil disturbance and began lobbing flash bang stun grenades into the crowd. Over a loudspeaker mounted on a truck, police claimed they had observed rocks and bottles thrown at officers and commanded the counter-demonstrators to disperse.

Simultaneously, police charged at the crowd with batons. They chased the retreating crowd through the streets, beating protesters and journalists with their batons while firing volleys of flashbangs and tear gas at them.

At least two people suffered major injuries from the police rampage and had to be rushed to the hospital after exploding flashbang grenades broke one womans arm and sent shrapnel flying through a mans helmet and into his skull. Hospital staff told the man he would have died had he not been wearing a helmet. Several others suffered bruises from police batons and there were other minor injuries. The police actions drew vociferous praise from the fascist demonstrators, one of whom noted approvingly that the police did a nice job.

Police arrested four people, all anti-fascist demonstrators, on charges ranging from misdemeanor disorderly conduct to felonies, including unlawful use of a weapon (a slingshot), attempted assault and assaulting a police officer.

While Antifa protesters were reported to have thrown rocks and water bottles at police during the assault, the Portland Police Bureaus claim that the police attack came in response to projectiles thrown at officers by anti-fascist protesters is directly contradicted by video and witnesses. Photographer Doug Jones told the Guardian that the first missile I saw and heard came from the Patriot Prayer side.

Willamette Week reporter Katy Shepherd wrote on Twitter: Standing at the police line, I did not see anything thrown prior to crowd control being deployed. There may have been. My impression was that things were settling down before the first flashbang exploded.

Patriot Prayer was founded by Gibson, who is presently running against Democratic Senator Maria Cantwell in the midterm elections, in 2016 as a far-right organization inspired by the skirmishes between pro-Trump and anti-fascist elements during the election. His group advances an extreme nationalist and xenophobic perspective under the guise of defending free speech. It has held numerous rallies along the West Coast, most of them in Portland due to its location just across the Columbia River from the groups headquarters in Vancouver, Washington.

Patriot Prayer rallies are characterized by provocations designed to trigger violent clashes with counter-demonstrators, which Gibson then holds up as evidence of the supposed intolerance of the left and to portray the far-right as persecuted for its political beliefs. The groups ideology, though somewhat vague, is an amalgam of extreme nationalism and racism that attracts a cross-section of the most backward and fascistic social layers, including the openly white supremacist and xenophobic Proud Boys.

These provocations escalate until skirmishes break out between Gibsons far-right supporters and counter-protesters. On Saturday, as at previous events, Gibson and his body guards charged into the crowd of protesters, setting off clashes before he was pulled away.

Saturdays rally was the largest yet for the group, which has carried out similar actions in Seattle, Berkeley and elsewhere. A police rampage on behalf of fascist demonstrators has become a pattern at such events.

At a Savannah, Georgia, event held by an assortment of armed, far-right and neo-Nazi groups earlier this year, thousands of police violently attacked counter-demonstrators and arrested several of them for violating a 1951 anti-Ku Klux Klan law against wearing masks during demonstrations. A series of similar events in Berkeley have been met with police repression after masked Antifa members carried out minor acts of vandalism. Antifa has a long history of infiltration by police and agents-provocateurs, who attempt to instigate violence in order to provide a pretext for a police crackdown.

Major media outlets have since celebrated the police crackdown as having prevented greater violence from emerging, justifying the assault as necessary given the supposed danger the counter-protesters posed.

For his part, after maintaining a complicit silence on Saturdays events, Democratic Mayor Ted Wheeler issued a written statement Monday praising the actions of the police and denouncing the supposed use of violence by the protesters, writing: I reject the idea that violence or hate speech is a legitimate means to a political end. Publicly available information gathered by PPB (Portland Police Bureau) prior to the demonstration indicated numerous individuals were arriving with every intent to inflict great bodily harm. The goals of the police during the demonstrations were to keep groups separated and protect lives, both of which they did.
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani issued a challenge to President Donald Trump on Monday, saying the Islamic Republic would welcome talks with the US "right now."

"I don't have preconditions. If the US government is willing, let's start right now," Rouhani said during an interview that aired on state television late Monday local time, just hours before the US renewed sanctions on Iran. "If there is sincerity, Iran has always welcomed dialogue and negotiations," Rouhani said.

Continents and regions Donald Trump Government and public administration Government bodies and offices Iran Middle East Middle East and North Africa North America Political Figures - US The Americas United States US federal government White House Asia China East Asia Embargoes and sanctions Hassan Rouhani International relations International relations and national security Iran nuclear development Political Figures - Intl

Trump's national security adviser John Bolton, when asked about the offer by CNN's Jake Tapper, dismissed it as possible "propaganda."

"Let's see what really comes of it or whether it's just more propaganda," Bolton said, adding that Trump has been "consistent" that he would be willing to negotiate with regimes such as North Korea and Iran.

"If the Iranians are really willing to come and talk about all of their malign behavior in the region and around the world, I think they'd find the President willing to do it," Bolton said.

But the Iranian President expressed concern that Trump is the unreliable one, pointing out that the US President has backed out of previous dialogue with Tehran as well as other international agreements.

'The coming Congress elections'

"The person who is claiming to be willing to negotiate today has withdrawn from all international commitments, from Paris Agreement (on climate change) to its business commitments with other countries," Rouhani said.

He indicated that Iran would want the US to scale back sanctions before any talks could begin. "If somebody puts a knife in its opponent or enemy's arm and says we want to negotiate, the answer is that they must first pull out the knife and then come to the negotiation table," Rouhani said. He added that "these sanctions are targeting Iranian children and people."

Rouhani also suggested that the Trump administration is ramping up sanctions and rhetoric on Iran in part for domestic consumption as November's midterm elections draw near.

"I believe that they want to wage a psychological war and create skepticism in the Iranian people to be able to use it in the coming Congress elections," Rouhani said. "So Trump's remarks are aimed at taking advantage of them in Congress elections."

Rouhani also sought to downplay the impact of newly reimposed US sanctions announced by the Trump administration on Monday -- reiterating his unspoken theme that it is the US, not Iran, that finds itself increasingly isolated.

"They will exert pressure on us and cause pain, but we will certainly come out of the end of this healthier," he said about the penalties that went back into effect at 12:01am ET Tuesday.

"I think if in unison, if we work together, we will make America regret this action very quickly. If we work together, the world will understand and America will understand that these sanctions are not effective," Rouhani added.

Specifically, Rouhani said China and Russia have indicated they will not abide by US sanctions despite Trump's threat of "severe consequences" for those who continue to trade with Iran.

"Last month I was in Europe, conducted talks with China," Rouhani said. "Their promise: They will ignore the American sanctions."

"China is our biggest trading partner. China and Russia stated clearly they will stand with the framework of our agreement," he said.

Monday's announcement by the US covers the first of two rounds of sanctions the US is unilaterally reimposing as a result of leaving the Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

Rouhani also mentioned that when a French company pulled out of a gas project it had signed on to, China immediately stepped in to fill that void. "Under current conditions, Asian countries (are of) utmost importance to us," he said.

The sanctions that went into effect Tuesday cover the purchase or acquisition of US dollars by the Iranian government; trade in gold or other precious metals; the direct and indirect sale, supply or transfer to or from Iran of graphite, raw or semi-finished metals such as aluminum, steels and coal; as well as significant transactions of the Iranian currency; and the country's auto sector.

The other signatories to the nuclear deal, including the European Union, Russia and China, are sticking with the accord. In a statement Monday, the EU, the UK, France and Germany said they "deeply regret" the US action. The EU announced it would take legal steps to protect European companies "doing legitimate business in Iran."
BLOOMFIELD, Ind. (WTHI) - Jenny Medina has been teaching for over 20 years. But this year she's entering a different role.

Medina says, "I'll be spending my time with the community, with businesses, with parents, with students. Interviewing them, talking about what they liked about our school and what's missing."

Medina is the new district readiness coordinator. The position is the result of a $130,000 Ready Schools grant. The coordinator will work with local industries and businesses.

Bloomfield superintendent Jeff Gibboney says, "We want to better prepare students to enter the workforce right away. Or to just have experiences before they go to a two year or four-year institution and then come back to our area."

As coordinator, Medina will learn from industries in the surrounding area. This information will then be put to use to improve education in the district.

Gibboney says, "Our goal at the end of this process is to walk away with a strategic plan to help us to obtain that level of success."

The position will work to fix issues in the district. However, Medina also hopes to help broaden the career scope for students.

Medina explains, "They know doctor, dentist, veterinarian is popular, teacher and then they kind of drop off. There are so many careers out there that they've not been introduced to."

Working with students and the community to help build a better tomorrow.
VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WTHI) - Behind the scenes, Vigo County Schools are preparing for a new year.

"We're all trying to find highly qualified staff to put in front of our children," said Supt. Robert Haworth.

Haworth is a new face leading the charge this year. Settling in to his new role, he's already battling a teacher shortage. It's a concern he has not only for the district, but for at the state level.

"Why do we have this shortage, and what are we going to do about it," he said.

At Monday night's school board meeting, members said they plan to be proactive.

Human Resources Director Mick Newport said they've screened about 180 candidates to fill vacant teaching positions.

"We have over 1000 teachers in our corporation, we're hiring nearly 67 is the recommendation for us," he said, "Right now we have about less than two percent that we need to fill, which is about 14 teachers."

Newport said the numbers change by the day, but right now, he says they've had concerns finding licensed teachers for areas like special education, business, language arts and some elementary positions.

Newport said retirements, resignations and teachers leaving to work in areas closer to their own home have been reasons for the vacancies.

If positions go unfilled, Newport said substitutes will help fill the voids. Newport credits the difficulty behind the licensing exam as a reason for the hold up in filling vacancies as well.

"We have kids that are taking that four or five times before they pass it," Newport said, "and it's really kind of discouraging for them, and those that are sticking with it, we're going to stick with them, and hopefully they'll pass that test and we can hire them and put them on a regular contract."

Newport said they are still interviewing candidates and working with the state for ways to help fill in the gaps.

A new approach, Newport said, is they're reaching out to other colleges. Newport said they recently closed a deal with Ball State University where they'll be bringing in student teachers for the upcoming year. Other colleges are also in the works to join in.

"In the past, we've just done Saint Mary-of-the-Woods and ISU, which has been fantastic, they've done great for us and we certainly don't want to cut them out," Newport said, "They're going to have priority because they're in our own backyard, but we think we're going to have an opportunity to get other people in here, see what they're like in the classroom and start recruiting them early on."

For Newport, he said he's confident in the direction Vigo County is headed when it comes to addressing the shortage.

"Two years ago, I felt like in our area it was very very difficult," he said, "It got better last year and I think the pendelum is swinging the other way."

The positive feeling is mutual for Superintendent Haworth, who says it will be a team effort to make progress on the shortage at the state level.

"We're going to be very proactive in our efforts," Haworth said, "but we're going to need some help to be able to attract, retain quality teachers here in the state of Indiana."

Vigo County students return to the classroom on Wednesday, August 8th.
There are plenty of interesting discussions about reporters social media accounts, and one of the most notable is around ownership of those accounts. Thats in the news this week thanks to a lawsuit filed in district court in Virginia by BH Media Group, owner of the Roanoke Times and several other papers. The lawsuit is against former Times Virginia Tech beat reporter Andy Bitter over ownership of the @AndyBitterVT Twitter account and its associated followers; Bitter left the paper earlier this year to cover the Hokies for The Athletic and was asked to turn over his account, but didnt do so.

Heres more on the dispute from Michael Phillips of the Richmond Times-Dispatch (which, as he notes, is also owned by BH Media Group):
Contributory pension scheme proposed

The government has proposed to set up a contributory pension scheme for civil servants under which they will pay 6 percent of their monthly salary into the plan, and the government will match the amount of money that they contribute.
Paul Manafort recommended a banker who allegedly loaned him money under false pretenses be nominated as President Donald Trump's Army secretary, Rick Gates testified Tuesday.

Gates, who was working on Trump's transition team, testified that Manafort had suggested Stephen Calk as a candidate for Army secretary two weeks after Trump was elected.

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Manafort was Trump's campaign chairman in summer 2016 but resigned before the election. Gates, Manafort's longtime business partner and Trump's deputy campaign chairman, was working on the transition team and the inauguration.

"We need to discuss Steve Calk for Sec of Army," Manafort wrote to Gates on Nov. 24, 2016, in an email prosecutors showed the jury. He signed the email as "P."

Manafort emailed Gates again two days before Christmas in 2016. He told Gates he had attached contact information for various people he wanted to go to Trump's inauguration. That list included Calk and his son.

Manafort is on trial on 18 counts of tax and banking crimes in the first case brought to trial as part of special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into foreign interference in the 2016 presidential election. Manafort has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Calk was allegedly involved in having his bank, Federal Savings Bank, extend a mortgage to Manafort in 2016 based on fraudulent financial details, prosecutors say.

Calk never received a position in the Trump administration, though he had been named to Trump's Economic Advisory Council in August 2016.

But Calk had spoken to Army Chief of Staff Gen. Mark Milley on Nov. 16, 2016, at a Chicago business lunch, the Pentagon told Maryland's Rep. Elijah Cummings, the top Democrat on the House Oversight Committee, according to an April letter Cummings sent to Calk.

Calk is a retired Army officer and was a helicopter pilot while in the Army.

CNN reached out to Federal Savings Bank for comment on Gates' testimony and did not immediately receive a response.

Prosecutors and Gates spoke about emails with Trump's staff throughout 2016 during the court proceeding Tuesday afternoon. It was the first time the jury heard from a witness during Manafort's financial fraud trial the extent of Manafort and Gates' work for Trump's presidential campaign and transition.
JACKSON, Miss. (WTVA) - Master-Bilt is expanding in New Albany and creating 30 jobs during the next three years.

The company is a refrigeration manufacturer providing food service equipment for restaurants, retail stores, convenience stores and more.

Standex International, Master-Bilt's parent company, is expanding the New Albany operations by relocating the production of refrigerated cabinets from Hudson, Wisconsin, to the Union County facility.

The expansion adds two production lines, which will increase cabinet production volume by 25 percent.

This expansion is a two-phase project.

Phase I began in May with the production of prototype samples which were evaluated to be approved for full production beginning in June.

Phase II began in late May with the transfer of equipment, marking the start of a nine to 24-month plant expansion.

The project also includes the reorganization and layout of the current facility to improve plant operations, efficiency improvements and equipment modernization.

Master-Bilt currently employs 322 employees at its New Albany facility.
STARKVILLE, Miss. (WTVA) - Mississippi State University will now offer free tuition to eligible members of the Mississippi National Guard.

On Tuesday, the university and the Guard announced the new program called the Bulldog Free Tuition program.

This will ensure free tuition for Guard service members enrolled full-time at the university.

To be eligible for the program, service members must be full-time undergraduate students, in good standing with their unit and cannot be within a year of their expiration of term of service.

MORE: See MSU's full release here
Update 08/07/18 12:51 p.m.

Chickasaw County Coroner Michael Fowler identifies the victim as David Lee Outlaw, Jr., 35, of Macon.

Update 08/07/18 9:38 a.m.

A body was recovered from a catfish pond in Chickasaw County.

Chickasaw County EMA Director Linda Griffin and Coroner Michael Fowler describe this as a drowning accident.

Officials were dispatched to the pond at approximately 7:33 a.m. The body was found at 8:37 a.m. The identity of the body has not been released.

The location is along Highway 45 Alternate near County Road 318.

Officials say this was a work-related incident on privately-owned land.

Monroe County dive teams and Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks helped in the search.

See the original post below.

CHICKASAW COUNTY, Miss. (WTVA) - Chickasaw County Sheriff Jim Meyers confirms his department is searching for a person who possibly drowned in a catfish pond in the county.

According to Meyers, a dive team is heading to the pond to assist in the search.

The exact location is unknown at this time.

WTVA's Kayla Thompson is on her way to the scene. Stay with WTVA 9 News for updates on this developing story.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.(WTXL)- Beginning this school year the words "In God We Trust" must be posted somewhere on the campus of every school in the state of Florida.

The words appear on the Florida Flag and seal. However, now you'll also see the U.S. motto at every school across the Sunshine State.

According to Leon County School District, many of the schools in the district already display the Florida flag or otherwise display the motto.

However, many people are divided on whether this is necessary.

"'In God We Trust' is a very positive message,"said Bethel Christian Academy Chancellor Reverend R.B. Holmes. "It does enhance one's morality or self esteem so I think it's a good thing," said Holmes.

"Spending time on this is ridiculous," said Leon High School parent Beth Overholt. "The flag is up at every single school. That's all, we can just put it up it's on the flag let's move on," said Overholt.

While many educators, parents and others have different opinions about this law. Some people agree the law inspires hope instead of pushing religion.

"You're not trying to demand a person believe a certain way, it's a sign of hope," said Holmes.

"There is nothing wrong with having it up, I just think they're are more education issues that we need to talk about," said Overholt.

According to Leon High School, they will meet with student leaders after the school year begins and will decide how they want to display the U.S. motto on their campus.
Veteran Indian politician M Karunanidhi dies at 94

Veteran Indian politician Muthuvel Karunanidhi has died at the age of 94.
MOULTRIE, Ga. (WTXL) - A woman who was breastfeeding her baby last week in the waiting area of a Thomasville dentist's office says she's upset with how the business treated her.

Suselma Ramirez said she was at A Confident Smile on August 1 with her husband and children. In a Skype interview with WTXL Monday, Ramirez explained she was there for her children's dental appointment. While she was waiting, her 4-month-old child was crying, so she started to breastfeed the baby.

Ramirez said she tried to cover up as much as possible -- and that she had nursed her child at that dentist's office before.

On August 1, she said an employee approached her with a blanket. Ramirez said she initially thought the gesture was to keep the child warm, but she realized it was to cover up the breastfeeding.

Ramirez explained that the baby wasn't comfortable with the blanket covering, so she placed it to the side.

She said the employee started to tell her that she needed to either cover up or nurse her child somewhere else. Ramirez said she told her husband to start recording the interaction on a cell phone to document what was happening.

The videos were posted on Facebook and generated thousands of views, before they were taken down. Ramirez re-posted the videos later with a disclaimer, saying that the content was exclusively managed by a British company called Mercury Press.

WTXL contacted Mercury Press Monday to obtain permission to use the videos. A representative indicated a fee would be involved for access. WTXL decided not to pursue the request further.

WTXL's sister station WALB interviewed the owner of the dentist's office last week, who said a receptionist offered the mother a blanket or a more private room.

Dr. Sharon Patrick apologized to Ramirez, and the company issued a statement on its website (and disabled its Facebook page), but Ramirez said she doesn't accept the apology.

She told WTXL she would've liked an apology from the employee who confronted her about the breastfeeding -- and that the business was hiding the full story.

Ramirez said she wants other mothers to embrace and fight for their right to feed their children.

"I just want people to understand that breastfeeding is nothing sexual," she said. "Breastfeeding is something normal, something natural. The baby is hungry, and so, I got to feed my baby. I'm not going to just starve my baby. I'm not going to do that."

Ramirez said she's considered taking legal action against the business. She said she'll find another place to take her children for their dental needs.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (The News Service of Florida) - Florida Department of Health Secretary Celeste Philip issued an emergency order this week suspending the license of a Tallahassee therapist for alleged sexual misconduct involving a patient under age 18.

The state alleges, among other things, that therapist Dan Engle broke the law when, during the year-long course of treatment of patient identified as V.M., he touched her thigh, engaged in lingering hugs, placed his hands on her lower back and buttocks, told her he loved her, invited her back to his house and requested a selfie.

The emergency order is not final, and Engle can challenge the move. Attempts to contact Engle at his office Thursday were unsuccessful.

Engle had 50 visits with V.M between December 2016 and December 2017, according to the order. The patient had a history of neglect and abuse by her mother and was under the care of her grandparents.

According to the emergency order, Engle bought V.M. presents during the year he treated her, giving her gifts for her birthday, Valentines Day and Christmas.

Engle allegedly texted V.M. in December 2017 asking, How bout a gift for me. Can u txt me a selfie. U know i can't share it."

After receiving that text, V.M. confided to her grandfather, alleging that over the course of the year Engle proclaimed his love for her and that he frequently gave her close and lingering hugs, the kind where his hands would land on her lower back. She alleged to her grandfather that Engle also asked her about her sexual fetishes.

Engle was interviewed by the Tallahassee Police Department in February.

In a recorded session, he admitted to discussing sexual "leanings" with V.M., giving her gifts, having physical contact with her in the form of a hug, texting with her and asking her for a selfie, according to the order.

Also, the order said Engle provided a statement in which he admitted that he asked V.M. to wear certain clothes and that after her third visit he "spontaneously started to hug her." According to the emergency order, Engle also admitted to inviting V.M. to record music at his house, whether there is a recording studio, and to inviting her over for neighborhood swims.

See emergency order here.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 00:23:25|Editor: ZX

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BEIJING, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- China's central bank confiscated the illegal gains of and levied fines on three companies for violating regulations on payment services, the People's Bank of China (PBOC) said Monday.

The confiscated illegal gains and fines totaled 77 million yuan (10.29 million U.S. dollars).

Gopay.com had 22.18 million yuan of illegal gains confiscated and was fined 24.29 million yuan after it was found to have failed to carry out effective checks on transactions by online vendors, thus providing online payment services for illegal transactions de facto. It also provided payment services for traders with vague identities.

Union Mobile Financial Technology Co., Ltd was fined 14.32 million yuan in addition to confiscation of 12.08 million yuan in illegal gains after it was found to have conducted loose checks on customer identification and engaged in illegal overseas transfers of foreign exchange.

The Shanghai branch of PBOC issued a fine of 4.12 million yuan on Alipay for violating payment service regulations.

The central bank has lately taken a tough stance on internet finance irregularities to improve market order. Two other third-party payment companies were fined a total of 34.75 million yuan a week ago.
India starts road project inside Nepali boundary

India has started a 1,258 km road project, a part of which passes through Nepali soil along the Tanakpur Dam in Kanchanpur district. Authorities in Kanchanpur are meanwhile unaware about this.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 00:53:30|Editor: ZD

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Eddie Mak (4th R), Commissioner for Economic and Trade Affairs of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to the United States, Henry Wan (5th R), Chairman of the dragon boat festival host committee, and other invited guests ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange in New York, the United States, Aug. 6, 2018. Executives and sponsors of the upcoming 28th Annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on Monday in celebration of the major multi-cultural event in New York metropolitan area. (Xinhua/Wang Ying)

NEW YORK, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Executives and sponsors of the upcoming 28th Annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on Monday in celebration of the major multi-cultural event in New York metropolitan area.

"Sure this year we'll be having more fun and more different kind of elements that coming to our event this weekend," said Eddie Mak, Commissioner for Economic and Trade Affairs of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to the United States, Monday morning.

"And I'm sure this will attract more and more people and this event will continue to be one of the biggest event in New York and in the United States," said Mak, who rang the bell with Henry Wan, Chairman of the dragon boat festival host committee.

Over 200 teams will paddle across the Meadow Lake at the Corona Park of New York City's borough of Queens on Aug. 11-12 in Flushing Meadows in Queens, New York City.

The first Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival was organised in 1991. Since then, the festival has grown and evolved into one of the largest multi-cultural festival in the New York metropolitan area and the biggest festival of its kind in the United States.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 01:38:39|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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MOGADISHU, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The UN migration agency and the European Union are this week training over 60 migrants who opted to return to Somaliland from Libya instead of continuing their journeys to Europe, the UN agency said on Monday.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) said the migrants will now have access to "Start Your Business" training through the EU-IOM Joint Initiative for Migrant Protection and Reintegration in the Horn of Africa.

Jessamy Garver-Affeldt, head of the IOM Sub-Office in Hargeisa, said the training gives migrants business planning, procurement, marketing and financial planning skills.

"With those skills, the migrants should be able to open their own businesses, and make them more profitable and sustainable. For most returnees, this is the next stage in the reintegration process. But if they choose to work for someone else, they are also more employable," Garver-Affeldt said.

In February, explicit photos and videos of Somalis being tortured in smugglers camps in Libya outraged the public back in Somalia, prompting President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo to order the evacuation of Somali migrants allegedly enslaved in Libya.

Garver-Affeldt said the five-day training is part of a wider 25 million euro EU-IOM Joint Initiative on Migrant Protection and Reintegration initiative, which is active in 26 countries in the Horn of Africa, the Sahel and Lake Chad region, and North Africa.

The initiative supports reintegration for returnees in countries of origin.

The first group of trainees were mainly young men in their 20s and 30s, with most of them having returned to Somaliland over May and June with IOM help.

According to the IOM, after the migrants complete the training, their business plans are vetted, start-up supplies are procured for them and they receive further monitoring and mentoring to ensure the sustainability of their businesses.

"The business training is part of what we call economic reintegration," said Julia Hartlieb, senior regional program coordinator for the Joint Initiative in the Horn of Africa.

"We counsel the migrants once they return to understand their interests and capacity. We also work to understand the needs of the communities they live in," Hartlieb said. "We then train them, or send them back to school, college or university to ensure that they have the skills to build their own economic self-sufficiency and to contribute to their communities."

Irregular migration, known as tahriib, has been a popular route out of poverty and unemployment for many Somalilanders.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 02:38:51|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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TEHRAN, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Monday that U.S. seeks to create chaos in Iran by reinstating sanctions.

U.S. first anti-Iran sanctions have targeted the country's civil aviation industry, Zarif was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency.

Zarif mentioned the international supports for Iran nuclear deal, saying only the United States and a few allies are against the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

"The United States, Israel and Saudi Arabia have been isolated in the international community, and have spent millions of dollars to misrepresent the reality through media propaganda," he stressed.

In the meantime, Iran's Interior Ministry announced that foreign sources are to blame for violent anti-government unrest over economic situation of the country recently, according to Press TV report on Monday.

The calls for protest rallies, under the guise of protests against economic woes, in Iran over the past month originated from outside of the country, Interior Ministry spokesman, Salman Samani, was quoted as saying.

The official said that "only a handful of people were influenced by such propaganda and attended unlawful protests in a few cities."

The main elements provoking unrest in Iran were mostly individuals, or groups that do not care about the economic problems and only "seek to foment chaos by taking advantage of the conditions regarding the price hikes and livelihood problems," Samani said.

The Iranian spokesman noted that efforts are underway to control the protests and handle the situation with "minimum tensions and through dialogue."

According to Press TV, protests were held in the Iranian cities of Shiraz, Isfahan, Ahvaz and Karaj over the past few days against economic conditions. The protests have been largely described as peaceful without any major instance of violence.

After U.S. President Donald Trump's withdrawal from the Iranian nuclear agreement in May, Washington is trying to bring sanctions back on Iran with the aim of blocking Iran's international financial transaction and reducing its oil exports to zero.

Trump on Monday signed first part of the sanctions to snap back on Monday. These sanctions target Iran's automotive sector, and trade in gold and other key metals.

The remaining sanctions will be re-imposed on Nov. 4, which will target Iran's energy sector and petroleum-related transactions, and transactions with the Central Bank of Iran.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 03:14:00|Editor: xuxin

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WASHINGTON, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The United States would re-impose sanctions on Iran that had been suspended under a landmark 2015 nuclear deal, the Trump administration said on Monday, in a bid to ratchet up pressure on Tehran.

However, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said in response that the Iranians would make the United States "regretful" for its renewal of sanctions against the Islamic republic.

Earlier on Monday, an anonymous senior administration official told the media via teleconference that the first batch of sanctions, which will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday (0401 GMT), target Tehran's purchase of U.S. banknotes, trade in gold and other precious metals, as well as the use of graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software used in industrial processes.

They will also affect transactions related to the Iranian Rial, the issuance of sovereign debts, and the country's automotive sector.

Another round of sanctions, to be reinstalled on Nov. 5, will be on Iran's port, energy, shipping and shipbuilding sectors, its petroleum-related transactions, and business deals by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.

The Trump administration will also relist hundreds of individuals, entities, vessels, and aircraft that were previously included on sanctions lists.

The so-called snapback sanctions were among those lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal between world powers and Tehran on curbing Iran's nuclear program.

U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned the nuclear deal in May, evoking global criticism and causing a divide with Europe. Some of its major European allies have been working to prevent the 2015 deal from falling apart.

Despite protests from European allies, Trump signed an executive order on Monday to implement these sanctions, saying that the U.S. policy on Iran "is based on a clear-eyed assessment" of the country's governance and regional influence.

He once again lashed out at the Iran nuke deal, saying that it was "horrible, one-sided" and had failed to protect U.S. national security.

The White House host added that "as we continue applying maximum economic pressure on the Iranian regime, I remain open to reaching a more comprehensive deal that addresses the full range of the regime's malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism."

However, Iran's President Rouhani struck a hard line. "America will regret imposing sanctions on Iran... They are already isolated in the world," he said in a televised speech, hours before new sanctions due to take effect.

Moreover, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Monday that the United States seeks to create chaos in Iran by reinstating sanctions.

U.S.-Iranian relations have been at odds as the Trump administration left the historic Iran nuclear deal, delegitimized its government, vowed to re-impose sanctions on the nation and pressed other nations to cut down their purchase of Iranian oil to zero.

Trump said late last month that he is ready to meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani with "no preconditions."

Tehran has so far shown little interest in talking with Washington over a new nuclear deal. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said lately that any negotiation with the United States to solve the existing problems is an "obvious mistake."
Saudi Arabia plans to shift 12,000 Saudi students and their family members from Canada to other countries. (Reuters photo)

RIYADH, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia plans to shift 12,000 Saudi students and their family members from Canada to other countries like the United States, in protest of recent Canadian statements, said a senior official on Monday.

The Undersecretary of the Education Ministry, Jassir Sulaiman, told Al Ekhbariya TV that the shifting process would take place with "top considerations of the general and educational interests of the students."

Saudi Arabia suspended on Monday ties with Canada over the statements by Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Canadian Embassy in Riyadh on civil society activists who have been detained, which urged Saudi authorities to release them immediately.

The kingdom asked the Canadian envoy to leave the country within 24 hours, put investments between the two states on hold, and recalled its ambassador from Canada for negotiations.

Meanwhile, Sabq online local news said there are also directives to stop sending Saudi patients to Canada for treatment.

Saudi Foreign Ministry said on Monday that the kingdom will not accept any interferences and will react firmly.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 04:54:28|Editor: ZX

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NEW YORK, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- An exhibition to explore the role of empresses in China's last dynasty -- the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) will be on view starting Aug. 18 at a well-known museum in the Untied States.

The Empresses of China's Forbidden City, which runs through Feb. 10, 2019 at the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) in Salem, Massachusetts, includes nearly 200 spectacular works such as imperial portraits, jewelry, garments, Buddhist sculptures, and decorative art objects from the Palace Museum, Beijing, China.

The exhibition is organized by the 219-year-old PEM, the Smithsonian's Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Washington, D.C. and the Palace Museum to honor the 40th anniversary of the establishment of U.S.-China diplomatic relations.

The exhibition features three key figures -- Empress Dowager Chongqing, Empress Xiaoxian and Empress Dowager Cixi who shaped the long history of the dynasty. Their life experiences revolve around six core themes: imperial weddings, power and status, family roles, lifestyle, religion, and political influence.

An international team of experts spent four years travelling to the Forbidden City to investigate the largely hidden world of the women inside. Some of the rare treasures showcased in this exhibition have never been publicly displayed and many of which have never been on view in the United States.

Visitors will also discover engaging in-gallery interactive experiences, such as creating an empress's robe. Other programs include immersive videos and opera performance, as well as English and Chinese language label text and guided tours.

In November 2018, halfway through the six-month exhibition at PEM, an additional 30 artworks from the Palace Museum will be installed in the galleries, including magnificent paintings and imperial robes.

Founded in 1799, PEM, about 16 miles (26 kilometers) north of Boston, is the oldest continuously operating museum in the nation. Its architecture collection of 22 noted historic structures includes Yin Yu Tang, the only complete antique Chinese house located outside China.

The Smithsonian's Freer Gallery of Art and the adjacent Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., together comprise the nation's museums of Asian art. The Freer/Sackler is part of the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum, education and research complex.

Established in 1925, the Palace Museum is located in the imperial palace of the consecutive Ming (1368-1644) and Qing dynasties. The magnificent architectural complex, also known as the Forbidden City, and the vast holdings of paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and antiquities of the imperial collections make it one of the most prestigious museums in China and the world.

In 1961, the State Council designated the former imperial residence as one of China's foremost-protected cultural heritage sites, and in 1987 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 07:30:04|Editor: xuxin

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UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations continues to encourage support for all governments for the Iran nuclear deal, a UN spokesperson said Monday, after Washington vowed to re-impose sanctions on Iran lifted under the deal.

Farhan Haq, a UN spokesperson, said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres continues to view the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (the Iran nuclear deal) as a diplomatic achievement and continues to encourage support for all governments for that, just as he did when these sanctions were being contemplated.

Despite global outcry, Washington said in May it would re-impose tough sanctions on Tehran when it declared to leave the 2015 multilateral deal. It also laid out two wind-down periods of 90 days and 180 days for business activities in or involving Iran.

On Monday, the final day of the 90-day wind-down period, the White House vowed to re-impose and fully enforce sanctions on Iran lifted under the Iran nuclear deal.

The first batch of sanctions, which will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday (0401 GMT), target Tehran's purchase of U.S. banknotes, trade in gold and other precious metals, as well as the use of graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software used in industrial processes.

They will also affect transactions related to the Iranian Rial, the issuance of sovereign debts, and the country's automotive sector.

Another round of sanctions, to be reinstalled on Nov. 5, will be on Iran's port, energy, shipping and shipbuilding sectors, its petroleum-related transactions, and business deals by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.

In response to concerns of possible humanitarian impact of the sanctions, Haq said "we will have to see what effects of these measures are," while stressing "regardless of the steps that are being taken," it is important that "Iran and the other parties comply with the terms of the Joint Comprehensive Plan Of Action."

He added the deal is the best way of resolving this particular situation, "so we would encourage all countries to do what they can to support the agreement."

Following the White House' announcement, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Monday that the Iranians would make the United States regret for re-imposing the sanctions.

Rouhani also said that the U.S. administration "is not trustworthy for any negotiations" after its withdrawal from the Iranian nuclear deal.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 10:05:24|Editor: xuxin

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LA PAZ, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Bolivian President Evo Morales stressed on Monday that national unity has played a vital part in creating a more prosperous country.

"Thanks to the unity of the Bolivian people, we have now built a new Bolivia ... When the people are united, nothing is impossible for the people. That has been our experience," Morales told lawmakers in the southwest mining town of Potosi during a speech marking Independence Day.

The event took place amid political tensions between legislators aligned with the ruling party and opponents of the government who don't want Morales to run for re-election, as he plans to do in 2019.

Opposition lawmakers occasionally shouted "Bolivia said No!", referring to voters' objection shown in a referendum on the re-election last year, which the government said was manipulated.

Their interjections were met with chants of "Evo, Evo, Evo!" from the president's supporters.

Morales noted that he has run a transparent government, and none of his aides have been implicated in corruption.

"If there are (political) differences (in the future), let's hope they are circumstantial, because in the end the country unites us," said Morales.

After 12 years in power, Bolivia's first indigenous president remains popular for steering the country toward development, mainly by wresting control of its energy and other natural resources away from multinational firms.
CANBERRA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has been granted the power to embed staff in the nation's largest financial institutions, local media reported Tuesday.

Treasurer Scott Morrison and Financial Services Minister Kelly O'Dwyer announced ASIC's "expanded armoury," including an additional 70 million Australian dollars (51.7 million U.S. dollars) for its budget, on Tuesday.

The enhanced powers come after the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry heard that ASIC had been "asleep at the wheel" and allowed misconduct to become commonplace.

Under the agency's "refocus," it will be allowed to place dedicated staff in major banks ANZ, Westpac, Commonwealth Bank and National Australia Bank (NAB) as well as wealth manager AMP to monitor governance.

O'Dwyer said the powers in addition to the additional funding would allow James Shipton, who took over as chairman of the body in February, to take the corporate watchdog in a new direction.

"It will ensure that Asic is on the front foot when it comes to considering any deficiencies in the governance and compliance structures of these large financial institutions, so as to prevent harm to consumers before it occurs," she told reporters on Tuesday.

The funding, which will come from regulatory fees paid by the financial sector, will help ASIC pursue legal action for serious misconduct, implement the new "supervisory approach" and establish a taskforce to identify and pursue failings in large companies.

Morrison said that the five affected institutions were on board with the enhanced powers.

"They want these things to be fixed too, I think that's true, and this is just another thing that's being done to set all this right," he told Macquarie Radio on Tuesday.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 10:45:31|Editor: xuxin

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BERLIN, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Two elderly Germans escaped from their nursing home to attend a heavy metal festival, the German media Deutsche Welle reported.

The nursing home called the police after they found two of their residents disappeared on Friday.

Soon the lost pair were found by police at the Wacken Open Air festival, which is 40 km away, at 3 am local time in a "disoriented and dazed" condition, the local police spokeswoman Merle Neufeld said.

"They obviously liked the metal festival," said Neufeld. "The care home quickly organized a return transport after police picked them up."

A spokesperson for the festival did not know whether the two men had bought tickets to the event. The 29th edition of the festival was fully sold-out and bands including Judas Priest, Danzig and Nightwish took to the stage in front of the crowd.

Founded in 1990, Wacken Open Air has been described as "the biggest heavy metal festival in the world." It takes place annually in Wacken, a village in Schleswig-Holstein, northern Germany, attracting approximately 75,000 people every year.
Kathmandu Post names Anup Kaphle as its new Editor-in-Chief

Kantipur Media Group announced on Tuesday that Anup Kaphle, an international journalist who has worked at leading publications in the United States, including the Washington Post, has been named the Editor-in-Chief of The Kathmandu Post.
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Sections of the Yosemite National Park, one of the most visited national parks located in the western U.S. state of California, will remain closed indefinitely as a wildfire rages on nearby, said the park officials on Monday.

"Due to increased fire activity in the areas adjacent to and on Yosemite National Park, park administrators and fire managers have made the decision to extend the current park closures indefinitely," said the U.S. National Park Service in a statement.

"Over the past 48 hours, fire has impacted all of the roads used to access Yosemite Valley, burning dead and downed trees that can become very explosive and fall without warning," added the statement.

The destructive fire began on July 13 and grew to 91,502 acres (around 370 square km) by Monday with only 38 percent contained, according to the latest update from the U.S. Forest Service.

Around 2,700 personnel are battling the blaze on the scene, aided by more than 200 engines, 14 helicopters, 5 masticators and 33 dozers. The blaze has claimed two firefighters' lives and injured nine others in the past weeks.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 11:10:38|Editor: xuxin

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RIO DE JANEIRO, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Brazil's October presidential elections will see at least 13 candidates vie for the country's top job, recent primaries indicate.

Both major and small political parties held their national conventions over the past few days to elect their candidates, who must now register with the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) by Aug. 15.

Brazil's progressive Workers' Party (PT), which governed for most of this century, confirmed embattled ex-president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva will be its candidate, despite his legal woes.

Lula is serving a 12-year jail term for corruption and Brazilian law bars anyone convicted of a crime from running for elected office. However, his defense lawyers continue to appeal his sentence.

Should Lula, who leads pre-election polls, be unable to run, the PT's backup candidate is former mayor of Sao Paulo Fernando Haddad, who is tapped to be his running mate.

If Haddad runs, then Deputy Manuela D'Avila, of the Communist Party of Brazil (PCdoB), would be his running mate.

The Brazilian Social Democracy Party (PSDB), another major political power, will field former Sao Paulo state governor Geraldo Alckmin.

The ruling Brazilian Democratic Movement (MDB) has chosen former finance chief Henrique Meirelles, who served as head of Brazil's central bank from 2003 to 2010 and as finance minister from 2016 to early 2018.

Current President Michel Temer, who came to power after the PT's Dilma Rousseff was impeached in 2016 halfway through her second term, is not running for reelection.

Pre-election polls show that trailing Lula in popularity with a big margin in the second place is Jair Bolsonaro, the candidate of the conservative Social Liberal Party (PSL).

Some other parties have also unveiled their candidates: businessman Joao Amoedo of the New Party; Daciolo Santos of the Patriot Party; Joao Goulart Filho, son of former President Joao Goulart, who ruled in the 1960s, of the Free Nation Party (PPL); Jose Maria Eymael of the Christian Democrats (DC); Marina Silva of the Sustainability Network (Rede); and Alvaro Dias of Podemos.

The list also includes Ciro Gomes of the Democratic Labor Party (PDT); Vera Lucia Salgado of the Unified Workers' Socialist Party (PSTU); and Guilherme Boulos of the Socialism and Freedom Party (PSOL).
CANBERRA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Almost 90 percent of migrants to Australia are settling in Melbourne or Sydney, data has revealed.

According to figures released by the Department of Home Affairs on Tuesday, 87 percent of people who arrived in Australia on skilled migrant visas in the last financial year permanently settled in Melbourne or Sydney.

The statistics were released just hours before Australia's population was set to hit 25 million, sparking debate over the nation's population growth.

Prime Minister (PM) Malcolm Turnbull has previously signalled his intention to direct more migrants towards smaller cities where population growth has stagnated.

In a speech to a Business Council of Australia (BCA) forum on Tuesday, Citizenship Minister Alan Tudge said that population growth was not a "one-dimensional issue."

"Rather, it involves size and distribution," Tudge said.

"If the population was distributed more evenly, there would not be the congestion pressures that we have today in Melbourne and Sydney.

"There are some people who believe in a big Australia, and others who want lower population growth.

"Regardless of these diverse views, what is important is that population growth is managed in such a way that it benefits all Australians. The case for further skilled migration is strong, but this does not translate to meaning that the more skilled migrants the better. There is a balance to be made."

Turnbull and Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton have reduced the annual skilled migrant intake from 190,000 to 162,000 - the lowest figure.

Former PM Tony Abbott urged the government to go even further and reduce the figure to 80,000.

However, Treasurer Scott Morrison warned that reducing migration so dramatically would cost the Australian budget 5 billion Australian dollars (3.69 billion U.S. dollars) over the next four years.

Treasury and Department of Home Affairs data revealed that Australia's immigration policy accounted for 1 percent of the nation's gross domestic product (GDP).

"Of course, with a larger economy, there is more scope for investment in public goods, including national defence," Tudge said.

He urged the business community to consider the impact of migration on house and land prices, congestion and utilities before weighing into the debate.

"In addition to this, if migration is not managed carefully, it can lead to social fragmentation and heightened security issues," Tudge said.

"It is important for business leaders to understand these other factors as much as the benefits which skilled migration brings.

"Faster population growth may help their bottom line, but it is the broader community that pays for much of the congestion and pressures on social cohesion."

Under proposals being considered by Turnbull to curb population growth in Melbourne and Sydney, a larger portion of migrants would be settled in Adelaide, one of Australia's slowest-growing capital cities.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) found that Melbourne's population grew by 2.7 percent in financial year 2017 while Sydney's increased by 2 percent.

During the same time period, the number of people calling Adelaide home grew by just 0.7 percent, making it the second slowest growing capital city ahead of only Darwin (0.5 percent).

Tudge has reportedly engaged in talks with South Australian Premier Steven Marshall about channelling more migrants to the state.
NEW YORK, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Purdue University in the United States has recently dropped the name of pizza chain Papa John's founder from a building at the school and offered to return the multi-million dollar funds associated with the naming, according to a statement.

"The Purdue Board of Trustees has decided that the name ... should revert to the Purdue University Research Center in Economics," the school said, referring to the building which was previously named after Papa John's founder John Schnatter.

Schnatter's family foundation donated eight million U.S. dollars to the public research university in April 2018, "to fund economics research," according to a statement the school released this April.

The university's board of trustees explained that the action "is necessary to avoid distraction from the center's work, counterproductive division on the campus, and any inference of any deviation from the university's often stated stance on tolerance and racial relations."

The explanation was alluding to the racially charged comments Schnatter once made. The founder of Papa John's used the N-word on a conference call in May and also made comments about racial relations when he reflected on his early life in the state of Indiana, according to a July 11 report in Forbes magazine.

Schnatter later confirmed the allegations and resigned from the U.S. restaurant franchise company.

Schnatter founded Papa John's restaurant in 1984. It runs the third-largest take-out and pizza delivery restaurant chain in the United States, according to PMQ Pizza Magazine.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 12:40:57|Editor: xuxin

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BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has congratulated Emmerson Mnangagwa on his election as Zimbabwean president.

In a congratulatory message dated Sunday, Xi expressed his wishes that the Zimbabwean government and people would make more achievements in national development under Mnangagwa's leadership.

Xi said he expects to meet Mnangagwa again and exchange ideas on China-Zimbabwe ties when the African president attends the summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Beijing in September.

Xi said he hopes the meeting with Mnangagwa in Beijing could push forward the comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation between the two countries and bring more benefits to the two nations and peoples.

In April, Mnangagwa, then incumbent Zimbabwean president, paid a five-day state visit to China, during which he met with Xi and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.

According to Zimbabwean Electoral Commission, Mnangagwa won the presidential election on July 30 after gaining 50.8 percent of the vote.
SYDNEY, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A severe drought has spurred pubs across Australia to donate one dollar from every chicken parmigiana meal they sell to support affected farmers.

Dubbed "Parma for a Farmer" after the Australian term for parmigiana, the initiative has taken hold rapidly with countless clubs, bars and eateries taking part, supported by the Australian Hotels Association.

An iconic menu item throughout Australia, the chicken parmigiana is a crumbed schnitzel topped with cheese and marinara sauce and served with chips and salad.

Participating venue, Axedale Tavern in Victoria normally does between 200 and 300 chicken parmas a week, expecting that number to increase.

Owner Gary Vanwynen told Xinhua that while they themselves aren't affected by the drought, the local community can relate to what's unfolding in other parts of the country.

"We're a farming community round here so everyone's getting on board for it," Vanwynen said.

"Probably about eight years ago we had quite a severe drought around here."

The story is similar across Australia - with the nation's long agricultural history, there is no shortage of those willing to do their bit, and dig into a parma for a farmer.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 13:41:08|Editor: xuxin

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UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations and the Yemeni Ministry of Health have launched a week-long cholera vaccination campaign, targeting the most vulnerable 500,000 people in and around the battle-scarred city of Hudaydah.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said Monday that over a year after cholera broke out in Yemen, killing more than 2,000 people, the disease is back and spreading fast in the Houthi-held port city of Hudaydah -- a target of continued air strikes by the Saudi-led coalition to regain control of the city.

Other mitigating measures implemented by humanitarian organizations include the continued provision of safe drinking water and sanitation facilities, according to the UNICEF.

Yemen's conflict has its roots in uprisings that date back to 2011, but fighting escalated in March 2015, when an international coalition led by Saudi Arabia intervened militarily at the request of Yemen's president.

More than 70 percent of all humanitarian aid and food imports get access to the country through the docks of Hudaydah, which was one of the worst-hit cities in Yemen's cholera outbreak last year.

On Thursday, the main hospital in Hudaydah was hit during an airstrike, further compounding the dire health situation in the city.

Fighting is still raging across much of Yemen and the escalating humanitarian crisis is the most acute of anywhere in the world this year, the UNICEF said.

As of Monday, about 88,000 people had received the cholera vaccine. This is the second of the three phases of the campaign led by the World Health Organization and the UNICEF with the first one administered in Aden.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 13:41:09|Editor: xuxin

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HOUSTON, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Children and teens should spend no more than 1-2 hours a day on recreational screen time, otherwise they are inclined to obesity, a U.S. non-government organization in preventing heart disease said on Monday.

The Texas-based American Heart Association, the country's oldest and largest voluntary organization of this kind, said in a statement that when kids and teens spend too much time on screen-based devices, it could cause sedentary behavior that can lead to weight gain and obesity.

The statement was developed by a panel of experts who reviewed existing scientific documents and evidence to provide an overview of a topic related to cardiovascular disease or stroke, which is more seen on the obese people.

The experts found that while time spent in front of the TV has decreased among younger people, the overall time kids spend using screen-based devices has increased substantially.

Over the last 20 years, TV viewing by children and adolescents has declined but the recreational use of other screen-based devices, such as smart phones, tablet computers and others, has resulted in a net increase in screen time overall.

Current estimates are that kids and young people between 8 to 18-year-olds spend more than seven hours using screens daily. The association urged parents to take steps to limit screen time of their children.

Tracie Barnett, a researcher at Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center in Montreal, Canada, and the chair of the writing group, stressed the American Heart Association's recommendation for children and teens to get no more than 1-2 hours of recreational screen time daily.

"Given that most youth already far exceed these limits, it is especially important for parents to be vigilant about their child's screen time, including phones," the researcher said.

According to Barnett, more research is needed because the patterns of screen-based media use and their long-term effects on children and teens are not yet known.
KABUL, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Over 20,000 Afghan refugees had returned or been deported from neighboring Pakistan and Iran during the period of July 29-Aug. 4, the UN Migration Agency IOM reported Tuesday.

A total of 19.513 Afghans have reportedly arrived in their homeland over the period from Iran, 5 percent less than the previous week, said IOM in a statement.

Meanwhile, 954 Afghans have returned from Pakistan back home over the period.

"This number marks a 700-percent increase compared to the previous week (137)," the statement noted.

The IOM has provided post-arrival humanitarian assistance, including food and non-food items to the returnees.

More than 463,000 Afghan refugees have returned to the poverty-stricken country from the two neighboring states since Jan. 1 this year, the statement said.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 13:56:12|Editor: ZX

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SHANGHAI, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese private courier companies are increasingly investing in the air freight business to offer swifter deliveries.

Last week, Shanghai YTO Express signed a contract with the municipal government of Jiaxing in the eastern province of Zhejiang, agreeing to build an air logistics hub at the Jiaxing airport.

With a total investment of 7.3 billion yuan (1.06 billion U.S. dollars), the hub will start construction before the end of 2018, and it is expected to be operational in 2021.

According to Su Xiufeng, an official in charge of the air cargo business of the company, Jiaxing is an ideal place to build the air cargo hub, since the Yangtze River delta area is a center for China's courier business and many major cities are within a three-hour flight distance from the city.

ZTO Express, also headquartered in Shanghai, teamed up with Turkish Airlines and PAL Air Ltd in June, with plans to establish a joint venture to transport parcels.

Guangzhou-based SF Express has been a leading player in the air cargo market. On July 1, the 45th cargo plane of SF Airlines, the cargo airline under SF Express, was put into use.

SF Express signed a deal with the provincial government of central China's Hubei Province at the end of last year to build a freight airport in Ezhou City. The airport is expected to handle 2.45 million tonnes of cargo by 2025.

The express delivery companies' increasing interest in cargo flights is a response to the country's booming courier business.

During the first half of this year, China's express delivery sector made a total of 22.08 billion deliveries, up by 27.5 percent from the same period last year. A total of 520 million overseas deliveries were made during that period of time, up by 43.1 percent.

Xu Yong, an analyst with the China Express Consulting website, a research institute for the Chinese courier market, said the investment in logistics infrastructure will help companies reduce their costs in the long run.
NC says will rebuff PHC decision

Nepali Congress has threatened to rebuff the decision of the Parliamentary Hearing Committee meeting that rejected Deepak Raj Joshee as Chief Justice.
NEW YORK, Aug. 6 (Xinhua) -- Four Russians were arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation of the United States over charges of money laundering and collusive fraud, according to the Russian Consulate General in New York.

"One of them was arrested in Boston and transferred to New York. Another two, as the information of the Federal Bureau of Prisons showed, were arrested in Los Angeles, while the location of the forth is being found out," the consulate general wrote on Facebook Monday.

Russian media Sputnik reported that the arrests were related to a wire fraud and money laundering case revealed by the U.S. Justice Department last month, in which 25 persons, including these four, were involved in a car fraud of more than 4.5 million U.S. dollars.

The Russian embassy in the United States said in a statement that they were closely following the situation and had referred to the U.S. State Department for clarification of the matter, while trying to establish direct access to the detainees.
NEW YORK, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A U.S. farmer has launched a brand-new ridesharing business by transporting people around his village in a horse-drawn buggy, local media reported.

Timothy Hochstedler, who lives in a Michigan county that houses the state's largest settlement of Amish people, has unofficially termed his service "Amish Uber."

"Uber is hot right now, so we have the Amish Uber," Hochstedler told local television station WWMT. "We can deliver people to their front door steps."

Unlike a traditional Uber service which entails a phone and the installation of an app on it, "horse-hailing Uber" riders must flag down Hochstedler for a four-legged pickup. A single ride is priced at 5 U.S. dollars.

"He loves people," Hochstedler said his horse is sociable and enjoys the attention.

Most of Hochstedler's customers come from other communities and along the scenic country ride, Hochstedler shares stories to make an even more pleasant journey.

"It's not an activity you typically associate with the Amish," said one customer, adding that the experience was "fascinating," according to WWMT.

Many Amish lead a simplistic, family-centered way of life and shun modern conveniences. Horse-drawn buggies are common scenes in the community.
SEOUL, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's Ministry of Unification in charge of inter-Korean affairs anticipated an increased humanitarian aid for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) under new UN guidelines, according to local media reports.

An unnamed ministry official told local reporters Tuesday that the new UN guidelines were anticipated to become an opportunity to resolve difficulties for humanitarian aid to the DPRK and facilities the international community's aid to the DPRK.

The comment came after the UN Security Council adopted a U.S. proposal to facilitate humanitarian assistance for the DPRK Monday (New York time).

In September last year, South Korea planned to provide 8 million U.S. dollars for the World Food Program and the UN Children's Fund UNICEF, which would have spent the money on malnourished mothers and babies in the DPRK.

The plan, however, was halted amid escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, caused by the DPRK's nuclear and missile tests.

As detente emerged on the peninsula with the DPRK's summits with South Korea and the United States, Seoul was forecast to resume humanitarian aid projects for Pyongyang under new UN guidelines.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 14:31:22|Editor: ZD

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COLOMBO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Over 163,000 Chinese tourists have arrived in Sri Lanka from January to July this year, making China the second largest market for Sri Lanka tourism, statistics from the Tourism Ministry showed here on Tuesday.

According to the statistics, 27,460 Chinese tourists arrived during the month of July, out of which 27,418 arrived by air and 42 by sea.

Sri Lankan Tourism Minister John Amaratunga said last month that he had recently held talks with China's tourism and airline officials to encourage more Chinese visitors to the country.

In total, overall tourist arrivals last month exceeded 200,000 recording a 6.0-percent growth when compared with the same period last year.

India, China and Britain remained the leading markets with India generating 14 percent of the total traffic received in July, China generating 13 percent and Britain generating 12 percent.

The tourism ministry said in a statement that till July, Sri Lanka had received 1,382,476 tourists, recording a 13.7-percent growth compared to the first seven months of last year.
KABUL, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- At least 50 civilians and security force members were killed during a heavy clash in Afghanistan's eastern province of Logar on Monday night, reported a local private news agency on Tuesday.

The clash started at midnight after Taliban militants stormed headquarters of Azra district and surrounding neighborhoods from different sides, Pajhwak Afghan News reported on its website.

Citing Abdul Wali Wakeel, a member of provincial council, the report said that 35 security personnel and civilians were killed during the clash and gunfight in the remote district while at least 15 police officers died in an ensuing friendly fire when U.S.-led NATO coalition forces conducted an airstrike on a police checkpoint in Azra.

"The militants were closing in on the district center and fierce gun-battles were underway in different parts of Azra, sharing a border with eastern Nangarhar province," the report said.

Several militants were also killed or wounded during the fighting.

Zabiullah Mujahid, a purported Taliban spokesman, claimed that Taliban fighters were advancing into the district administrative center by early Tuesday, according to the report.

Taliban militants, who ruled the country before being ousted in late 2001, renewed armed insurgency, killing government troops as well as civilians.

They have intensified armed attacks against security forces across the country since April 25 when the Taliban's so-called yearly rebel offensive started.

The Logar province, which is located 60 km south of national capital city Kabul, has been the scene of heavy clashes between security forces and Taliban since early this year.
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Equanimity, a luxury yacht linked to Malaysian state fund 1MDB, arrived at Port Klang on Tuesday as the Malaysian government is weighing options to deal with the 250-million-U.S. dollar super yacht.

Malaysian Attorney General Tommy Thomas confirmed the arrival of the boat in a statement, saying the yacht was purchased with money belonging to Malaysia and thus was properly seized under the laws of Malaysia.

The yacht was reportedly seized by the Indonesian government in Bali in February on the application of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), which is probing a multi-billion dollar misappropriation scandal surrounding 1MDB. Upon the return of the boat, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad thanked Indonesian President Joko Widodo for the gesture.

Low Taek Jho, a key figure in the 1MDB case, is identified as the owner of the boat which is registered in Caman Islands, according to ship tracking information. Malaysia has issued an arrest warrant for Low, but his whereabouts are known.

In the statement, Tommy Thomas said the arrival of the yacht was a result of "sensitive and delicate negotiations" conducted at the highest level of different agencies among Indonesia, Malaysia and the United States, thanks to the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties.

"Among our agencies involved were the Royal Malaysian Police, the Royal Malaysian Navy, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and the Attorney General's Chambers, " he said.

It is not yet known what the Malaysian government will do with the yacht, but Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng told reporters on Monday that the public should have a chance to view it before it is put on auction. "There are a lot of valuable items inside," he said, adding the government wants to "claw back as much money as we can" from the boat.
NEW YORK, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Representatives from different communities in New York and local officials on Monday condemned the anti-Chinese graffiti scrawled in the fast-growing Chinatown of Brooklyn, New York City's largest borough, over the weekend.

"This is attempting to degrade communities and create a level of terror in our communities, and it's not accepted," Eric Adams, Brooklyn Borough president, said during a press conference Monday.

The anti-Chinese graffiti found at several sites has triggered public outrage, especially among the local Chinese community. Representatives from various Chinese-American communities across the city attended the press conference holding placards that read "Stop the hate" and "Hate doesn't belong here" to show their outrage.

"It's dangerous to think one culture is superior to others," Tim Law, a Chinese American who has lived in Brooklyn for about 50 years, told Xinhua.

"I have lived here for over 35 years and it has never happened before," Stephanie Wong from the United Chinese Association of Brooklyn said. "We don't want this hate to (divide) everybody."

Brooklyn has the second largest Chinese population in New York City, second only to Queens, according to an Airbnb report in March.

"To put up graffiti of this magnitude is not only an insult (to) Asian Americans or Asian residents, it's an insult (to) American residents as well," Adams told Xinhua.

Denouncing it as "premeditated action," he asked the New York City Police Department to investigate the incident as a "hate crime".

Adams spoke highly of the long tradition of rich collaboration between the Chinese communities and Americans. "We stand for a united front to ensure that we will continue to build bridges with each other," he said.

His views were echoed by many attendees at the conference.

"If you target a group or a gender because of their ethnicity, their race ... that is the definition of a hate crime in the New York State Penal Code," New York State Senator Diane Savino said.

"This hate crime does not define who we are. This is a diverse, wonderful, beautiful neighborhood made up of hard working families, seniors, and children that celebrate and welcome diversity," New York City Council member Mark Treyger told the press.

All the attendees urged for witnesses to come forward and help apprehend the people responsible for the graffiti.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 16:31:47|Editor: Liangyu

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BRUSSELS, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A First EU-China investment fund backed by the Juncker Plan has raised 600 million euros (694.5 million U.S. dollars) for mid-sized companies, the European Commission has said.

Cathay Capital has raised an initial 600 million euros for its fund Cathay Midcap II, which targets 1.2 billion euros to finance mid-cap companies, according to a Commission statement on Monday.

The fund is backed by the European Investment Fund under the Juncker Plan's European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI), as well as the China Development Bank, French national promotional bank Bpifrance, China's Silk Road Fund, sovereign funds, institutional and other private investors.

It is the first fund to be set up under the China-EU Co-investment Fund (CECIF) program, which was established by the EIF and SRF with the aim of developing synergies between the Belt and Road Initiative and the Juncker Plan.

The fund will support mid-cap companies with high growth potential in Europe and China, in areas such as healthcare, high-end industries, consumer goods and business services.

"We have been working towards this moment since we set up the EU-China working group in 2015 in Beijing. I am very pleased that we are now seeing the fruits of that labour and that the Cathay Midcap fund will finance European and Chinese high potential mid-cap businesses in strategically important sectors," said Jyrki Katainen, Commission Vice-President responsible for Jobs, Growth, Investment and Competitiveness.

"This is a very good example of how private and public investors can work together," he added.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 16:31:48|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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KABUL, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of militants affiliated with the hardliner Islamic State (IS) outfit have surrendered to local authorities in Darzab district of the northern Jawzjan province over the past one week amid the mounting pressure by the rival Taliban outfit and government forces.

More than 400 IS fighters, according to local officials, have laid down arms and surrendered to provincial authorities over the past one week and only 200 fighters including some senior leaders of the hardliner group surrendered to police in Darzab district on Aug. 1.

Welcoming the step as a "good omen" toward ending the war and achieving durable peace, Jawzjan provincial governor Mawlawi Lutfullah Azizi said that "No more the phenomenon of Daesh or Islamic State exists" in Jawzjan province.

The official has also called upon other armed outfits to follow suit and give up fighting against the government to bolster the peace process in the country.

Meanwhile, locals in Jawzjan province have accused the former IS fighters of committing crimes against humanity and called for their punishment.

Hundreds of people, mostly from Darzab and Qush Tepa districts, the former strongholds of the IS group, staged a protest in front of the Governor House in Jawzjan provincial capital Shiberghan over the weekend and claimed that some 10,000 families had left their houses to escape IS cruelties.

"Islamic State militants jailed me in a well for eight days and tortured everyday to provide them 1.2 million afghanis (around 17,000 U.S. dollars) and after extorting the sum they set me free," Habibullah, a resident of Darzab district, told Xinhua recently.

Habibullah also warned to burn himself publicly if the government fails to ensure justice.

Like Habibullah, many more people from Darzab and Qush Tepa districts have been accusing IS militants for killing, raping, looting and destroying their houses, urging the government to take legal action against the former militants for their past crimes.

Advocating the demand for trial of IS fighters, Sima Samar, the head of Afghan human rights commission, in talks with local media, said, "No one has the right to pardon this people for their surrender to the government."

Meanwhile, Jawzjan provincial governor Mawlawi Lutfullah Azizi told Xinhua, "The government has promised to pardon these people if they don't take arms again to fight against the government." However, he noted that people's allegations would be investigated in accordance with the law.

In the meantime, Mawlawi Habib Rahman, the leader of the IS surrendered group has rebuffed the allegations as baseless, saying, "The government of Afghanistan has promised to protect us and this is the responsibility of the government to act upon its agreement."
VIENTIANE, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- As water levels continue to rise in many parts of the country, the Lao Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) are urging people to avoid wading through floodwaters.

"The surface may look calm, but many dangers can lurk underneath, including strong currents, broken debris and deadly diseases," local daily Vientiane Times on Tuesday quoted Lao Minister of Health Bounkong Syhavong as saying. "Please don't wade through floodwater. If you have no other choice but to do so, please wear shoes and wash your feet immediately afterwards."

Continued rain in the wake of Tropical Storm Son-Tinh has resulted in flooding in 13 provinces. This is in addition to the catastrophic flash flooding which inundated villages downstream of a hydroelectric project in Attapeu province on July 23, which has left 34 people dead till Tuesday.

The Ministry of Health and WHO continue to work together with partners to respond to health needs in Attapeu and other flood-affected parts of the country, according to the report.

WHO Representative in Laos Juliet Fleisch reaffirmed the WHO's commitment to supporting the Lao people in responding to the disaster.

"WHO has been in Attapeu since the very first days of the crisis. We will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Ministry of Health and our local and international partners in bringing life-saving health services to affected communities," she said.

In addition to the provision of health services, efforts are also underway to counter an increased risk of outbreaks of water-borne, food-borne and mosquito-borne diseases.
Police shoot dead killers of abducted boy in gun battle

Police shot dead in a gun battle two ransom-seekers who kidnapped an eleven-year-old boy from Kandaghari in Kathmandu Metropolitan City-32 on Sunday.
SUVA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Another batch of cocaine bars has been discovered in Fiji's eastern islands.

Fiji police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said Tuesday that on July 31, one bar of cocaine was found on the island of Moturiki, while last weekend a fisherman found 35 bars of cocaine on the island of Makogai. Fijian police expect to find more cocaine bars.

The cost of one bar of cocaine is estimated to be at 840,000 Fijian dollars (about 400,000 U.S. dollars).

Fijian Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho said earlier Fijian police were working with the Fiji Navy and relevant overseas and local stakeholders after cocaine packets were discovered on the shores of Fiji's eastern islands and on Taveuni Island which is Fiji's third largest island.

The 51 bars found earlier have an estimated street value of 43 million Fijian dollars (about 20.4 million U.S. dollars).

Meanwhile, the Fiji Police Force on Monday introduced an amnesty period effective from Aug. 6 to Aug. 20 to allow those who have cocaine to hand over the illicit drugs to authorities.

In a statement on Monday, commissioner of Fijian police said they had received information about people trying to sell the illicit drugs on streets.

"While investigations are on-going, we are calling on anyone who may have found any bars of cocaine to utilize this amnesty period and hand them over to police," Qiliho said.

Similar findings of cocaine were made in Tonga where 58 bars in total were found on two of their islands, and have been confirmed to be the same quality of cocaine found in Fiji.

Qiliho said the close proximity of the Tongan group of islands to Fiji was a major concern, however, any drug discovery in the Pacific was equally concerning.
COLOMBO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese embassy to Sri Lanka on Tuesday awarded 22 Sri Lankan university students scholarships for higher education in Chinese universities.

The students received the scholarships at the annual Chinese government scholarship award ceremony held here.

The event was organized in collaboration with Sri Lanka's Higher Education and Cultural Affairs Ministry.

The selected winners will leave for China in September for their bachelor degrees, master degrees and doctoral degrees in different fields such as medicine, art, environmental science, archaeology and museology, Chinese language teaching and international economic and trade.

The students will study in Chinese universities including Peking University, Zhejiang University and Wuhan University.

Secretary of Sri Lanka's Ministry of Higher Education and Cultural Affairs J.J. Rathnasiri, while thanking China's contribution to helping Sri Lankan students, said the Chinese higher education scholarships program had benefited a large number of Sri Lankans over a long period of time by providing undergraduate and postgraduate education opportunities in Chinese universities.

"I request all students to get the maximum benefits out of the scholarships and after your return serve the country in your best and help more and more to strengthen China- Sri Lanka relations," Rathnasiri said.

Charge d'Affairs of the Chinese embassy in Sri Lanka Pang Chunxue, while congratulating the winners, said the students will be the needful talents for the national development of Sri Lanka and will become friendship envoys for both China and Sri Lanka.

The 31-year-old Manoj Maddumarachchi, one of the scholarship winners, told Xinhua that he is delighted to receive an opportunity to pursue his master degree in human geography in China.

"Chinese universities offer more facilities and it is an opportunity I truly value," he said.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 17:27:05|Editor: zh

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GAZA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Two Palestinian militants belonging to Islamic Hamas movement were killed Tuesday by Israeli artillery fire in northern Gaza Strip, according to Hamas's military wing, al-Qassam Brigades.

Qassam identified the two militants as Ahmed Murjan and Abdul Hafiz al-Selawy from the Jabaliya refugee camp in northern Gaza.

Meanwhile, security sources said that the Israeli army artillery targeted an observation point used by Qassam militants in northern Gaza Strip, killing two of the Brigades' activists.

Israel has not commented on the attack yet. However, Israeli media reported that an Israeli force came under fire near the borderline in northern Gaza.

Tension in Gaza has been high since the Palestinians launched massive anti-Israel rallies in March, known as "the Great March of Return," which demanded the lift of the blockade Israel has imposed on Gaza since 2007.

About 158 Palestinians have been killed and more than 17,000 others injured by Israeli gunfire during the rallies which peak every Friday.

There have been reports about talks between Palestinian factions, Egypt, the United Nations and Israel to reach a long-term truce in the besieged enclave.

A high level delegation from Hamas has also arrived in Gaza Strip on Thursday after talks with Egyptian officials.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 17:32:07|Editor: zh

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SHENYANG, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese central government has urged local governments to make efforts to stabilize land and housing prices, and punish those who fail to stabilize the real estate market.

At a meeting held by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development in northeast China's city of Shenyang, capital of Liaoning Province, on Tuesday, local governments across China were ordered to analyze the problems and major risks existing in their respective housing markets, and implement tailored measures to stabilize the market expectation.

Development of the rental market was encouraged to meet various needs of residents, while speculative housing purchases were to be curbed by cracking down on illegal developers and agents, according to the meeting.

Government representatives from eastern, central, and southwestern regions attended the meeting.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 17:47:10|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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A man accompanies his wife at a temporary tent at a hospital in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, on Aug. 7, 2018. Death toll from Sunday's 7.0-magnitude quake in Indonesia reached 105 on Tuesday while a total of 4,636 visitors have been evacuated from the three islands near Lombok island, a government official said. (Xinhua/Agung Kuncahya B.)

JAKARTA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Death toll from Sunday's 7.0-magnitude quake in Indonesia reached 105 on Tuesday while a total of 4,636 visitors have been evacuated from the three islands near Lombok island, a government official said.

A total of 236 people were injured in the quake and most of them were hit by falling debris and blocks of concrete, spokesman of the national disaster management agency Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said.

All the tourists have been evacuated to nearby seaports of Bangsal, Benoa and Lembar from the three tourism attraction islands, namely Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno, in West Nusa Tenggara province, the spokesman said.

Evacuation of tourists is underway with 11 boats mobilized, Sutopo told Xinhua in a text message.

The spokesman said the number of victims is expected to rise as the assessment work continues.

The quake struck at 18:46 p.m. local time (1146 GMT) On Sunday with an epicenter 18 km northwest of Lombok Timur in West Nusa Tenggara province and a depth of 15 km.
(File photo)Drilling vessel Scarabeo 9, owned by Italian oil service group Saipem, sails in the Bosphorus in Istanbul, Turkey May 21, 2018. (Reuters photo)

ANKARA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The United States reimposed economic sanctions against Iran on Monday, a move that not only pressures Tehran's nuclear program but also puts Turkey in a tight situation.

On one side, the Turkish government insists on continuing bilateral trade with its neighbors. However, on the other side, Turkey's state-owned Halkbank is expected to face a penalty by the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control for its alleged role in the scheme to evade previous Iran sanctions.

The U.S. Treasury Department reinstates sanctions on a number of key Iranian sectors and activities on Aug. 6, including Iran's trade in gold and precious metals, software for integrating industrial processes, automotive sector, rail transactions and civilian aircraft sales.

A visiting U.S. delegation on July 20 informed relevant Turkish companies and banks that they have to wind down their business with Iran in 180 days. The Treasury delegation also met with Turkish authorities and briefed about the sanctions and sought cooperation.

After the meeting, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said authorities were working to avoid the U.S. sanctions from harming Turkey.

However, the Turkish politicians continued defying a unilateral decision taken by Washington and said Turkey is not obliged to implement the U.S. sanctions.

"We do not have to adhere to the sanctions imposed on a country by another country. We don't find the sanctions right either," Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said after the meeting with U.S. officials.

"We held meetings with the U.S. officials in Ankara and told them openly: Turkey gets oil and gas from Azerbaijan, Iran, Russia and Iraq. If I don't buy from Iran now, where am I supposed to meet that need?" the minister said.

In the first four months of 2018, Turkey bought more than three million tons of crude oil from Iran, almost 55 percent of its total crude supplies, according to data from the Turkish energy watchdog.

But, TUPRAS, the largest Turkish oil importer from Iran, has recently reduced its daily purchases by almost 60 percent after U.S. President Donald Trump announced the re-imposition of sanctions against Iran.

In 2017, the trade volume between Turkey and its eastern neighbor Iran was estimated at 10.7 billion U.S. dollars. Turkey has 7.5 billion dollars of imports from Iran, with the majority of them being oil and gas. Turkey has exported mainly gold, steel profiles, fiber board and automotive products worth of 3.2 billion dollars.

Turkey depends heavily on imports to meet its energy needs. Last year, Turkey imported 53 billion cubic meters of natural gas. Russia holds a 52.94 percent share in Turkey's natural gas imports, followed by Iran with 16.62 percent.

"Turkey has to find new oil import source in order to replace Iranian oil," Necdet Pamir, an energy expert from Bilkent University said.

He recalled that in the past when Turkey had to cut back on Iranian oil, Iraqi crude emerged as the alternative. "The government of Iraq will likely be the address again," he said.

Iran provides diversity in energy resources for Turkey, but if Ankara complies with U.S. sanctions, not only its economic ties with Tehran will deteriorate, but also its dependency on Russia will increase, according to Kemal Inat, researcher from Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research.

But if Ankara objects Washington for slapping sanctions on Tehran, Turkey itself will become subject of U.S. sanctions, Inat said recalling Halkbank case.

A court case in the United States accused Turkey of helping Iran evade U.S. sanctions by providing billions of dollars worth of gold in exchange for Iranian natural gas and oil and Turkey's state-owned Halkbank processed the transaction between 2010 to 2015.

The previous U.S. sanctions on Iran caused tension between two NATO allies, as a former Halkbank senior banker was sentenced in May to 32 months in a U.S. prison for plotting to help Iran evade American sanctions.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 17:52:12|Editor: zh

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HONG KONG, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The food safety authority of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) decided on Tuesday to suspend import of poultry products from Tuaran District of Sabah State in Malaysia.

The Center for Food Safety (CFS) of the HKSAR government's Food and Environmental Hygiene Department said the decision was made in view of a notification from the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) about an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Tuaran District of Sabah State in Malaysia,

The CFS has instructed the trade to suspend import of poultry meat and products, including poultry eggs, from the district with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

A CFS spokesman said that Hong Kong imported about 100 tons of frozen poultry meat and 190 million poultry eggs from Malaysian in the first six months of this year.

The CFS has contacted the Malaysian authorities over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the OIE on avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation, the spokesman said.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 18:07:16|Editor: Liangyu

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Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic speaks during an interview by the Chinese media in Belgrade, Serbia, on Aug. 6, 2018. The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is promoting global stability by connecting different countries, cultures and peoples spiritually and materialistically, Vucic said here Monday. (Xinhua/Dong Longjiang)

BELGRADE, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is promoting global stability by connecting different countries, cultures and peoples spiritually and materialistically, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said here Monday.

"From the very beginning, we considered BRI as an initiative for promoting peace," he said during an interview by the Chinese media.

This year marks the fifth anniversary of the first announcement of BRI, which has received positive responses from various countries and regions, including Serbia.

"I have said on public occasions that Serbia has benefited greatly from the initiative," the president said.

Under the BRI framework, Serbia and China carried out large-scale infrastructure projects that have driven the Serbian economy and created better living conditions for Serbians, he said.

Vucic mentioned the Smederevo steel plant, which was acquired by China's HBIS Group in April 2016, as an example of successful large-scale infrastructure projects executed in cooperation with Chinese entities.

The plant, once on the brink of bankruptcy, has become the second largest exporter in Serbia and has saved at least 5,000 jobs under the management of the Chinese.

"We saw great benefits in cooperation with China, and we hope that China can see its own interests in the cooperation with Serbia," Vucic said.

On the 40th anniversary of China's reform and opening up, Vucic said that in the past 40 years, China's decisions have been effectively presented in front of the world, and people worldwide have started to understand China's politics and opening-up policies.

Serbia is China's first strategic partner in Central Eastern Europe. They established a strategic partnership in 2009, which was advanced to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2016.

The two countries have established an "iron friendship," Vucic said, adding that Serbia is proud of its partnership with China, which besides stemming from economic interests, mutual understanding and support are also reflection of deepening mutual trust.

Serbia and China share a policy of mutual visa exemption for each other's citizens. Vucic said he hopes more Chinese will visit Serbia and more Serbians visit China.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 18:12:24|Editor: zh

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BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- According to a new survey, about 38.2 percent of people support university graduates delaying employment, 30.4 percent oppose it and about 31.4 percent feel neutral on the issue.

Delayed employment has become popular in China in recent years, with more university students unwilling to start working right after graduation, instead choosing to travel, further their studies or start up businesses.

The China Youth Daily survey showed that 50.7 percent of respondents thought graduates delaying their job-search would have more ideas about their careers, but 47 percent said lack of career planning was the main cause of delayed employment.

"In the past, most people worked immediately after graduation, to shoulder family economic burden. But now, more graduates prefer jobs with personal interests, and they are not willing to start a career they don't like," said one respondent, a university graduate in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.

A counselor at Renmin University said that graduates who planned to delay employment should manage their own finances and not rely on their parents.

The survey also revealed that 85.4 percent of respondents believed the delayed employment period should not exceed one year.

The counselor said he thought a delayed job search would reduce people's competitiveness in the workplace.

The China Youth Daily survey was based on answers from 2,009 respondents, with 57.5 percent at university and 31.6 percent in work.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 18:17:25|Editor: zh

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NAIROBI, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's Ministry of Tourism and industry partners said on Tuesday that preparations for the 79th International Association of Travel and Tourism Professionals (SKAL) Congress to be held in the port city of Mombasa in October are complete amid optimism on the growth of the sector.

Najib Balala, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, said an estimated 500 delegates will participate in the five-day summit that will act as a networking platform for influential players in the global tourism and travel circuit.

"We are honored to host the upcoming world congress of tourism professionals and the government will offer the necessary support to make it succeed," Balala told reporters in Nairobi.

Kenya won the bid to host the 79th world congress of travel and tourism professionals after a stiff competition from Peru.

Balala noted that the country's bid to host the prestigious congress in 2015 was lost due to terror related attacks that dented the image of resort city of Mombasa.

"The government has put strong measures in place to enhance safety of delegates and the facelift of Mombasa city has gone ahead to ensure these visitors enjoy the ambience," said Balala.

He revealed that majority of delegates for the Oct. 17-21 congress will shuttle from Nairobi to Mombasa via the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) commuter train while the remainder will use charted flights.

Balala said the government is anticipating robust growth of tourism sector in the last quarter when the country hosts a range of activities like Africa Hotel Investment Forum and Magic Kenya Expo.

"So far the tourism industry is doing well. Maasai Mara hotels are fully booked as wild beasts migration gets underway. We are targeting an 18 percent growth of the industry this year and hope to sustain it longer," said Balala.

He added that Kenya aims to increase the number of tourist arrivals annually from the current 1.5 million to 2.5 million by 2022.
Reduce the carbon

Nepals share of greenhouse emission is negligible yet it ranks 4th in terms of vulnerability to climate change
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 18:27:28|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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MOGADISHU, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The UN refugee agency said on Tuesday that some 116 Somali refugees arrived in the port of Berbera in Somalia on Monday after sailing from Aden in Yemen on Sunday.

The UNHCR said the latest assisted spontaneous return in cooperation with International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the authorities in Yemen and Somalia brings to over 2,000 the total number of refugees who have returned to the Horn of African nation since the program started in 2017.

"So far this year 1,321 Somalis (including the 116 who left on Sunday) have returned to their places of origin in Somalia," the UN refugee agency said in a statement.

"On arrival in Somalia, returnees receive a reinstallation cash grant and an allowance. Returnees also receive a package consisting of household items, food assistance through WFP, and an education allowance for primary school children," it added.

The UN agency said weather conditions in the past two months had prevented the boat from sailing and the journey from the port of Aden to Berbera takes some 15-17 hours.

The Assisted Spontaneous Returns (ASR) program was initiated in 2017 in response to demand from refugees for UNHCR help in returning home.

Yemen currently hosts over 270,000 refugees, the vast majority of whom (256,363) are Somali. Some 45 percent are hosted in the south of the country, in Kharaz refugee camp -- Yemen's only refugee camp -- and in the Basateen urban settlement in Aden, according to the UNHCR.

UNHCR and partners said they face enormous challenges in ensuring safe living environments, adequate protection, humanitarian assistance and access to essential, life-saving services.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 18:27:29|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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HARARE, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwean police said Tuesday they are looking for nine senior opposition MDC Alliance leaders in connection with the post-election violence in central Harare last week that left at least six people dead and several others injured.

Police have since arrested at least 27 people following the violent protests. The suspects are expected to appear again in court Tuesday for a bail ruling.

Among the nine senior leaders wanted by police on allegations of inciting their supporters to engage in the violent protests are Tendai Biti and party chairperson Morgan Komichi.

"They are wanted by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) participating in a gathering with intent to promote public violence, breaches of peace or bigotry," said CID spokesperson Portia Chinho.

Meanwhile, the opposition MDC Alliance, which is rejecting the election results, claims that Zimbabwean authorities have intensified a crackdown on its officials and supporters in the aftermath of the July 30 elections that were won by incumbent president Emmerson Mnangagwa and his ruling ZANU-PF party.

The opposition party is claiming that its supporters in some high-density suburbs of Harare are being abducted, beaten up or harassed by unidentified armed men for voting for the opposition and causing last week's deadly protests.

However, foreign affairs minister Sibusiso Moyo has dismissed the claims as false, saying the country's military was a well-trained and disciplined force.

"In Kuwadzana and Dzivarasekwa, government is not aware of any beatings or abductions so far as has been reported. All what we are realizing is that there is a lot of misinformation that is coming out from social media," he said in his address to diplomats and international bodies accredited to Zimbabwe on the political situation in the country.

MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa has said he will use legal and constitutional means to challenge the election results.

Mnangagwa won by 50.8 percent, beating his nearest rival Chamisa who garnered 44.3 percent.

According to the Zimbabwe constitution, Mnangagwa is due to be sworn in after nine days from the announcement of the election result.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 18:41:46|Editor: Yamei

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Aerial photo taken on Sept. 8, 2017 shows the rice fields at Suhuo'er Village in Qapqal Xibe Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. China's westernmost Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region welcomed a record high of 107 million tourists in 2017, up 32.4 percent year on year. In addition, tourists spent over 182 billion yuan (28.4 billion U.S. dollars) in Xinjiang last year, 30 percent more than in 2016. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu)
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 18:37:32|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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ABUJA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A village head and six others were beheaded when suspected Boko Haram fighters stormed a village in northeastern Nigeria to wreak havoc, according to local residents on Tuesday.

The attackers also set ablaze the village of Munduri in the northern state of Borno, causing pandemonium in the settlement late Monday, said Baba Ali Daudu, a resident.

"They killed our Sarkin (village head) and his wife. And killed five others. Our entire village has been set ablaze," Daudu said.

Sources told Xinhua that the attackers came in motorcycles and trucks. Some of the residents returned Tuesday morning to an empty village, which is located about 15 km north of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.

One villager identified as Musa Mohammed said all his livestock were burned, so also were his food supplies and those of many other villagers.

No official has so far given a statement on the attack.

Terror group Boko Haram is suspected to have carried out the attack. The group has been blamed for the death of over 20,000 people mostly in the northeast region of Nigeria since 2009.
South Sudanese President Salva Kiir (R) and major opposition leader Riek Machar sign on the final deal on power-sharing and security arrangements between South Sudan's conflicting parties, in Khartoum, capital of Sudan, Aug. 5, 2018. (Xinhua/Mohamed Khidir)

JUBA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- It was all ululation and jubilation in Juba as South Sudanese nationals welcomed the signing of the revitalized power-sharing pact by warring parties on Sunday night, saying the deal will end the more than four years of strife in the country.

Thousands of jovial Juba residents seized the occasion and took to the streets immediately after the peace deal was inked in Khartoum earlier in the day.

"Today, I am overjoyed because peace has finally been restored in our country and we are now going march forward and build our nation," Mary Ajith expressed her great excitement and feeling of joy to Xinhua.

She said that it has been her wish to see the warring parties reach the deal to end the conflict that has worsened poverty in the country.

Hordes of residents gathered in Juba carrying the flags of South Sudan as they sang and danced the night away around the capital city that had been under years of curfew since the conflict broke out in December 2013.

Another jubilant citizen, who only identified himself as Deng, said all he wanted was peace and unity of all the South Sudanese people.

"Our country ought to be inclusive and transparent to all. I believe we have learned a lot from meaninglessly killing each other," Deng said as he chanted "Peace! Peace! Peace!"

President Salva Kiir and opposition leader and arch-rival, Riek Machar, signed a revitalized agreement to end the civil strife that would see the latter reinstated as first vice president after serving a two-year house arrest in South Africa.

The agreement was signed collectively by the two leaders as well as all political parties in South Sudan, signaling their desire to end the conflict that has caused a lot of suffering and displacement of people.

The agreement outlines guidelines on power sharing and governance, including settling boundary disputes which will be guided by a Boundary Commission and provides for an avenue for the people of South Sudan to participate in a referendum if need be to settle those disputes.

Kiir pledged to incorporate warring factions into the government after he met with Machar and an alliance of opposition leaders.

The deal which was inked in Sudan will lead to the formation of a unity government which will run for three years in South Sudan.

Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir who hosted the talks said South Sudan peace agreement will not just be 'ink on paper', saying more sessions will sketch out details and timetables for implementation of the signed peace deal.

He pointed out that his government had taken a decisive decision to implement the 2005 peace agreement signed with the SPLM movement that eventually led to South Sudan's independence from the north for the sake of peace.

Meanwhile, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said the peace process will continue in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, instead of Nairobi as decided by East African leaders.

"We have agreed with my brother President Bashir that let us continue with this negotiations right here in Khartoum," he said after the signing of the deal.

Kenyatta appealed to the political leadership in South Sudan to secure the future of the region by commencing implementation of the Agreement.

"Informed by our shared and common experiences and grounded in a long history of solidarity between Kenya and South Sudan, I urge each and every leader to leverage the diversity of South Sudan and harness it to build strong and responsible structures that respond effectively to the needs of the people," he added.

Kenyatta paid tribute to Al-Bashir for hosting the current phase of the peace process that has yielded promising results for South Sudan and the region.

Kenya has been a key participant amongst other IGAD states in the process of bringing peace and stability in South Sudan driven by the belief that peace and stability in the young nation heralds prosperity for the whole region.

South Sudan's conflict that has now entered its fifth year erupted in 2013 after forces loyal to Kiir and his former deputy engaged in combat.

The 2015 peace agreement to end the violence was again violated in July 2016 when rival factions resumed fighting in the capital, Juba, forcing Machar to flee into exile.

Millions of South Sudanese civilians have sought refuge in neighboring countries as the conflict rages on despite attempts by international players to end it.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 18:52:39|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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LONDON, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The British government is planning to seek the extradition from Russia of two suspects identified as the would-be assassins who carried out the nerve agent attack in Salisbury on a former Russian agent and his daughter, British media claimed Tuesday.

There has been no official confirmation on the extradition move from Downing Street or the British Foreign Office.

The Times newspaper alleged in reports that detectives from the Metropolitan Police in London are understood to be confident they have identified the would-be assassins who used a perfume bottle containing the deadly poison novichok in their unsuccessful attempt to kill Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia, aged 33, in March.

Mother of three, Dawn Sturgess, aged 44, died last month after coming into contact with the perfume bottle containing novichok thought to have been discarded by the Skripals' attackers.

Her partner, Charlie Rowley, was left seriously ill from the effects of the nerve agent but was discharged from hospital.

Moscow has categorically denied all accusations over the novichok attacks.

The Times reports said that an extradition application would reignite a diplomatic row with the Russian government who have denied any state involvement in the novichok attack in Salisbury.

The reports claimed Russian suspects are thought to have been identified after detectives cross-checked closed-circuit television tapes recording people entering Britain around the time of the attack.

"Security sources confirmed that detectives had been working towards an extradition request. Officials from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) are believed to have been drawing up the papers," said the Times.

Whitehall sources told the newspaper that it was one option and no final decision had been taken to issue a warrant. Sources played down the chance of it being imminent, with one government source suggesting that no such extradition was planned.

Other newspapers, including the Guardian and the Daily Telegraph also reported on the extradition moves.
WELLINGTON, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters met with European Union (EU) High representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission Federica Mogherini here on Tuesday on a range of issues including an EU-NZ Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

Mogherini welcomed the launch of negotiations towards the FTA, the first round of which took place in Brussels in July, said a joint press release.

The agreement, when concluded, will send a powerful message about the two sides' collective commitment to open, rules-based trade and help both sides to fully realize the potential in trade and economic relations, it said.

They discussed shared security challenges such as terrorism, hostile cyber activity and threats to the international rules-based order, and how the two sides could work together better to tackle these challenges in the future, according to the release.

They also exchanged views on possible cooperation in crisis management operations around the world through the EU/NZ Framework Participation Agreement.

They reaffirmed "the close and long-standing relations" between New Zealand and the EU, adding that close cooperation should include such issues as international peace and security, sustainable development in the Pacific, combating climate change, non-proliferation of the weapons of mass destruction and counterterrorism.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 19:12:43|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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JERUSALEM, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Israel's military attacked a Hamas post in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, killing two militants, Israeli officials and media said.

A military spokesperson said in a statement that the attack was a retaliation for an earlier gunfire that was shot at soldiers near the northern Gaza Strip, without causing injuries.

"In response, an IDF (Israel Defence Forces) tank targeted the post from which the shots were fired," the statement read, adding that the post belongs to Hamas, an Islamist Palestinian group that runs Gaza.

"The IDF is prepared to target any aggression against Israel and holds Hamas responsible for everything happening in and from the Gaza Strip," the spokesperson said.

The incident came after Egyptian-brokered talk to achieve cease-fire between Israel and Hamas reached an impasse.

The recent round of violence has cost the lives of at least 140 Palestinians and an Israeli soldier.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 19:27:49|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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ANKARA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Turkey and the United States have reached a preliminary agreement on some issues during talks which aim to solve the crisis over the arrest of Pastor Andrew Brunson that leads to U.S. sanctions on Turkey, local media reported.

The consensus covers "certain subjects" and the two parties agreed on face-to-face talks, Daily Hurriyet quoted anonymous diplomatic sources on Tuesday.

A Turkish delegation is reportedly scheduled to visit Washington D.C. in the coming days to "move the process further."

The U.S. Department of the Treasury slapped two Turkish ministers on the ground that they have "played leading roles in the organizations which were responsible for the arrest and detention of Pastor Andrew Brunson."

Brunson, a 50-year-old Christian pastor, was detained two years ago in Turkey on spying charges, and faces up to 35 years in prison if found guilty.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and his U.S. counterpart Mike Pompeo last week announced continuation of dialogue to solve the diplomatic crisis.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday vowed to retaliate by imposing sanctions against two U.S. ministers, but Ankara has not taken action yet.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 19:37:50|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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BEIRUT, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Italian Defense Minister Elizabeth Trenta said Tuesday her country is ready to support different Lebanese institutions, mainly the Lebanese army, independent online newspaper Elnashra reported Tuesday.

"Italy also agrees to extend the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) force in Lebanon," she said based on a request by President Michel Aoun.

Trenta's remarks came during a meeting held with Aoun in the Presidential Palace.

Aoun said during the meeting that Israeli threats and the circumstances in the region necessitates the extension of the mandate of the UNIFIL force in Lebanon.

Trenta arrived in Beirut for an official visit on Monday.

She met with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri on Monday while reiterating her country's support for Lebanon in different areas.

"Our country is always keen on providing continuous support for Lebanon," she said.

Trenta said that Lebanon and Italy enjoy a very special historical relations.
S Korea air ticket 23pc cheaper for workers

The Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE) on Monday announced the reduction of airfare by 23 percent for Nepali workers travelling to South Korea under the Employment Permit System (EPS).
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 19:56:22|Editor: Liangyu

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Crew members take part in the only refuelling of the Tian'en vessel of China's COSCO Shipping Specialized Carriers Co., Ltd. on Busan Sea waters as it ships to Europe through the "Polar Silk Road" on Aug. 7, 2018. (Xinhua/Liu Hongxia)
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 20:33:09|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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PARIS, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Two men who planned to join insurgents in Syria on boat were arrested in May, news channel BFMTV reported on Tuesday.

According to the report, officers from the Directorate General for Internal Security (DGSI) on May 18 detained a 45-old-year suspect in Herault, south France on attempts to reach Syria on sail boat where stored food and calculated various navigation routes lining Hherault and Syria were found.

The man, who planned to take with him his 10-year-old daughter, told investigators he had wanted to join troops of Omar Omsen, a French member of al-Qaeda terrorist cell located in Idlib on the Turkish-Syrian border and who have recruited scores of French nationals.

His accomplice, 21, was also detained at the end of May in eastern district of Isere.

The two suspects were indicted for criminal terrorist criminal conspiracy and placed in pre-trial detention, the report added.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 20:33:09|Editor: Liangyu

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BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The State Council investigation team has stepped up efforts to investigate defective human rabies vaccines, pledging severe consequences for those convicted of criminal offenses and neglecting regulatory responsibilities.

Work has started on recalling defective rabies vaccines produced by Changchun Changsheng Life Sciences Limited in both domestic and overseas markets, an official statement said.

The investigators found the company had violated rules on production management and national drug standards for the vaccines from as early as April 2014.

The violations included blending expired fluid to produce certain products and falsifying production dates.

China has set up a panel consisting of experts in virology, vaccinology and related fields to review the risks in safety and the effectiveness of vaccines on the market.

The panel has said that given the clinical character of rabies, people who received the vaccines from Changsheng do not need to be inoculated again. It also suggested hospitals provide free vaccines (from other producers) for those who have not finished their vaccination or asked for re-inoculation.

The incubation period of rabies normally varies from one to three months, rarely surpassing a year, according to a World Health Organization report in April.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 20:38:10|Editor: Liangyu

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FUZHOU, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Emilie Lagneau spent her first two weeks in China repairing an ancient house in a remote mountain village in the eastern province of Fujian.

The French archaeologist joined a two-week architectural heritage preservation work camp. Together with 16 volunteers, three from France and 13 from China, she arrived in Jiulong village of Nanping City on July 16.

The two-storey house, with a wooden inner structure and rammed earth outer walls, is located on a mountain. The volunteers carried tiles and logs up the mountain, and dug-up earth near the house. Under the guidance of three local craftsmen, they built a rammed earth wall to replace a rotten wooden beam.

Lagneau said the manual labor was not a challenge for her as she had been an archaeologist for 10 years.

"I'm interested in the old way to build houses with wood and mud," she said. "I wanted to have a trip in another country and to learn carpentry. Then I found this work camp online."

The work camp, co-organized by Shanghai Ruan Yisan heritage foundation and French relics protection association Rempart, has been raising public awareness of architectural heritage conservation since 2011.

For eight years, the work camp invited Chinese and French volunteers to repair heritage sites in the two countries, such as temples, former celebrity residences and city walls.

This was the first time the camp chose Jiulong, where Tucuo mud-houses have been home to locals for more than 1,000 years.

Ding Feng, secretary general of Shanghai Ruan Yisan heritage foundation, said that the old houses showed the traditional residential architecture of northern Fujian.

"In recent years, young and middle-aged people have left the village to seek job opportunities, leaving about 90 percent of these old houses vacant and unprotected," Ding said. "These houses will disappear in several years if without some preservation efforts," she said.

Zhan Zhenfen, who taught the volunteers how to make rammed earth walls using raw materials such as earth, clay, gravel and straw, said the last time he did such work was in 1986. "Villagers used to build these houses on their own. But now, people under 50 don't know the techniques."

Since the 1980s, villagers began to move into brick or concrete houses with modern facilities, leaving many old ones abandoned.

More than 120 traditional houses still exist in Jiulong, among them two were built 400 years ago, and another seven have a history of about 200 to 300 years.

Hu Xiaowen, a volunteer and interior designer, said she appreciated the way the traditional houses were built.

The external walls make the houses cool in summer and warm in winter. The houses are strong, durable and eco-friendly, as they adopt local raw materials.

"There are some Chinese architects who are accommodating rammed earth walls into modern construction, for the purpose of sustainability," Hu said.

Liu Chunlan, a volunteer who led the team in Jiulong, said she believes the work carries significance for locals. "Villagers used to think that their hometown was a place left behind by modern development, but our arrival and labor can provide them with an outsider perspective and let them see the value of the traditional architecture in their hometown."

Their labor made the local villagers curious. Some even joined their repair work, and many children were eager to learn the techniques.

Wu Chunsheng, a local official, said the local government had also been encouraging the villagers to repair their deserted houses to protect the local culture.

Wu said the county was preparing to build an artist base in the village to attract painters, photographers and sculptors to create works inspired by the idyllic rural scenery, and create more jobs for the locals.

After the voluntary work in Jiulong finished, Lagneau and French volunteer Audrey Garrouste headed to Shanxi Province to another work camp to repair a historical hall.

Lagneau said she was looking forward to getting to know more about Chinese architectural culture.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 20:38:10|Editor: Liangyu

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Yang Jiechi (R), a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, meets with United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) president-elect Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 7, 2018. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Yang Jiechi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, met with United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) president-elect Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces in Beijing on Tuesday.

Yang, also director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, said China firmly adheres to multilateralism and attaches importance to the status and role of the United Nations.

China will actively support the UNGA and the president, and continue to make contributions to coping with challenges, said Yang, calling on the United Nations and the UNGA to stand against unilateralism and protectionism, and to voice support of building an open world economy and safeguarding the multilateral trade system.

For her part, Espinosa Garces highly commended China's contribution to world peace and development, and said the United Nations will firmly adhere to multilateralism.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 20:48:15|Editor: Liangyu

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CHANGSHA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Twelve people were arrested for illegally making and selling guns online, police in central China's Hunan Province said Tuesday.

Police in Yongzhou city received reports of selling guns online in March, and a four-month investigation led to the arrest of a gun manufacturing ring across six Chinese provinces. Eight guns and nearly 3,300 bullets were also seized.

Members of the public are not allowed to make, sell, or possess guns in China. According to Chinese law, a person could face up to seven years of imprisonment if convicted of illegally owning a firearm.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 20:53:17|Editor: ZX

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Chinese Ambassador to Afghanistan Liu Jinsong (C-L) and Afghan state minister for disaster management and humanitarian affairs Najib Aqa Fahim attend a joint press conference in Kabul, Afghanistan, Aug. 7, 2018. Chinese embassy to Afghanistan announced Tuesday that China will provide rice and flour as emergency food assistance to drought-affected areas in the militancy-hit Afghanistan. (Xinhua/Dai He)

KABUL, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese embassy to Afghanistan announced Tuesday that China will provide rice and flour as emergency food assistance to drought-affected areas in the militancy-hit Afghanistan.

"On behalf of the government of China and its people, I have the honor today to confirm that China will provide rice and flour to the government of Afghanistan to cope with the drought situation in the country," Chinese ambassador to Afghanistan Liu Jinsong said at a joint press conference here.

Flanked by Afghan state minister for disaster management and humanitarian affairs Najib Aqa Fahim, the ambassador stated that the Chinese government agreed to provide emergency relief supplies to the Afghan government and would also help to construct early flood warning system in the country.

Speaking at the conference, Fahim said that the drought has effected millions of Afghan people in more than 20 provinces.

"As the result of drought more than 1.4 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance and we predict that around 3 million people will be in need of aid until the end of this year," the minister asserted.

Fahim also expressed gratitude to China for its cooperation, saying the people and government of Afghanistan are thankful to the People's Republic of China for its contribution towards rebuilding Afghanistan and supporting its people in the hour of need.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 20:53:18|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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BELGRADE, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- An establishment of the Community of Serb Municipalities is the key condition for starting discussing a potential compromise solution between Serbia and temporary authorities in Pristina, Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic said Tuesday.

The southern region of Kosovo and Metohija had unilaterally seceded from Serbia in 2008. Serbia rejects it and considers Kosovo its own province.

Vucic held a press conference at the presidency building to brief journalists about the situation in Kosovo and Metohija, after the recent failure of Pristina authorities to meet the deadline of the European Union (EU) and form the Community of Serbian Municipalities before Aug. 4.

Vucic said that he will advise Serbs in the province to work together with Serbia "on monitoring movements in the international community, pursuing our rights and choosing the right moment and measures that would be beneficial for our interests, as well as to obtain guarantees that we can maintain peace, stability and not harm safety".

He said Pristina needs to make the move and form the mentioned body, because, if Serbs tried to form the Community themselves, authorities in the province would see that as unilateral act, which would put in danger the northern part of the province controlled by Kosovo Serbs.

Vucic explained that the lack of the community deprives Serbs of numerous rights stemming from the EU-mediated 2013 Brussels agreement between Belgrade and Pristina.

He further appealed that a compromise solution is needed urgently, because the long-term peace between Serbs and Albanians would create security and safety for citizens, enable Serbia to pursue economic development, attract foreign direct investments, improve its international reputation and evade a poor demographic outlook for upcoming decades.

But, according to Vucic, it will not be possible to initiate a dialogue about a compromise solution before authorities in Pristina fulfill their obligation from the 2013 Brussels agreement and form the Community of Serb Municipalities.

He assured however, that if a compromise solution appears on the horizon, the final decision on the legally binding agreement will be made by citizens of Serbia at a referendum.

"People will be informed on all facts in order to be able to express their position on any potential agreement that we could reach some day," Vucic said.

Still, he highlighted his pessimism when it comes to the possibility that a compromise solution could become reality, because of the visible public dissatisfaction, both in Belgrade and Pristina, with the idea of leaving the status quo.

Vucic said that Serbia will insist on a solution that focuses on the safety and security of Kosovo Serbs as well as the right of property of its citizens, companies, church and state in the province.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 21:13:24|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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KABUL, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Around 14,000 people have been forced by critical drought from their homes in remote areas to the cities in two Afghan provinces, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said Tuesday.

The drought affected people have poured to Kunduz city, capital of northern Kunduz province and Qala-e-Naw city, capital of western Badghis province, as aid agencies usually focus on secure regions of the country to supply assistance to those in need, the agency said in its initial report.

"Humanitarian agencies aided up to 90,000 people, in the past week, with a total of 172,193 have been verified as Internally Displaced People (IDPs) in 2018," the report added.

More than 1.4 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance as a result of drought, according to officials of Afghan Ministry for Disaster Management and Humanitarian Affairs.

Up to 20 of the country's 34 provinces affected and the ministry predicts that around 3 million people will be in need of aid until the end of this year.
WASHINGTON, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said here Tuesday that anyone doing business with Iran will not be allowed to maintain business ties with the United States.

Trump tweeted that "the Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level."

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States," he warned.

The remarks came as the first batch of the re-imposed U.S. sanctions on Iran came into full effect on Tuesday.

These U.S. actions target Tehran's purchase of U.S. banknotes, trade in gold and other precious metals, as well as the use of graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software used in industrial processes.

They would also affect transactions related to the Iranian Rial, the issuance of sovereign debts, and the country's automotive sector.

Another round of sanctions, to be reinstalled on Nov. 5, will be on Iran's port, energy, shipping and ship-building sectors, its petroleum-related transactions, and business deals by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.
S Korea allows family to visit Nepali workers

South Korea will allow family members of Nepali workers in South Korea to pay a visit and meet the worker at least once during their employment tenure.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 21:23:28|Editor: Shi Yinglun

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NAIROBI, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Twenty years ago at 10:30 a.m. (0730 GMT), the peace in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi was shattered when terrorists attacked the U.S. embassy.

At least 213 people and thousands of others were injured in the terror attack perpetuated by al-Qaida network, the worst on Kenyan soil.

A similar attack happened in Dar es Salaam, where 11 people were killed.

Today, the place where the embassy used to stand in Nairobi is a memorial park. A majority of those who visit are young people, 25 years and below.

Many of them have no recollection of what happened, some even why the site was converted into a park and why the day is significant to the East African nation.

As Kenyans commemorated the day on Tuesday, the older generation took time to educate the younger Kenyans on what the day is all about and why it is important for Kenya to fight terrorism and curb such attacks.

"When the bomb went off that morning, the windows, glasses and paper rain hit the streets in a radius of 1 km, the force of 900 kg bomb. Some 20 years on, the buildings have stood and so are the memories," wrote 'Kinyan Boy' on social media site Twitter, where most of the education happened, under the hashtag aug7at20.

"I was three years old when the attack happened. I grew up and found the place called bomb blast. Someone please educate me," noted Jeff. His comment attracted tens of answers as people volunteered with information.

"Al-Qaida terrorists attacked the U.S. embassy in Nairobi. Then it was located opposite railway terminus, not in Gigiri. Over 200 people were killed," offered Kimani.

At the site of the blast, families of those who died and injured, among dignitaries from the U.S. and Kenya gathered on Tuesday morning to pray and mark the day.

"I was working for the government in community area when the blast happened. I am retired but to date, when Aug. 7 reaches, I still remember the sound of the blast as if it is yesterday," said Joseph Moganyi at the site.

Moganyi noted that as the country marks the day, Kenyans should spare a thought for those who were injured and still bear the scars in any way.

"Those who suffered in the attack have never been compensated despite their lives being ruined. It is something both the Kenyan and U.S. governments should consider," said Moganyi, who worked at the social protection office.

The U.S. embassy in Nairobi asked Kenyans and Americans to remember and honor all who died or were injured.

Henry Wandera, an economics lecturer in Nairobi, said the blast in Nairobi exposed to the world the kind of enemy it was fighting.

"It is after the Nairobi and Dar es Salaam attacks that the fight against terrorism was stepped up and Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden was marked a wanted man. It is good he paid the price of the attack with his life," he said.

He noted that while Kenya managed to curb terror attacks, the danger still lurks in the form of the Somali-based group al-Shabab.
MANILA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Philippine Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said on Tuesday that the single negotiating text draft of the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea recently reached by China and ASEAN is "already a breakthrough."

The foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China agreed at their meeting in Singapore last week on a single draft document that will form the basis of the negotiations of COC.

"Having a single draft is already a breakthrough. The ASEAN member states and China see eye to eye in the need for an effective code of conduct," Cayetano said.

Cayetano said the timeline for the formal negotiations is still being discussed.

The Philippine foreign affair chief also declined to reveal details contained in the draft citing the sensitivity of the negotiations.

He said no one is expecting the negotiations to be easy "but everyone is looking forward to the day that we can actually sign" the code of conduct.

The Philippines has assumed the role of ASEAN-China country coordinator since this August. Cayetano said the Philippines is "happy" to take over as the country coordinator of ASEAN-China dialogue relations for the next three years. "It's an important job," he said especially now that the COC is being negotiated.

The ASEAN member states and China had agreed on a single draft COC negotiating text at an ASEAN-China senior officials' meeting on the implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea in Changsha, China, on June 27.

China and ASEAN states signed the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties (DOC) in the South China Sea in 2002. The DOC outlines the most important principles in the South China Sea, and consultations for the COC were launched by the two sides in 2013. Both are aimed at safeguarding peace and stability in the region.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 21:40:14|Editor: Liangyu

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The 1st Tibet Yak Industry Development Forum was held in Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, Aug. 6, 2018. The three-day forum, focusing on yak industry development and Tibet animal husbandry, kicked off here on Monday. (Xinhua/Liu Dongjun)
TOKYO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A group of citizens filed a lawsuit on Tuesday against the Japanese government for its poor management of a river that allegedly caused a deadly flood in 2015.

Some 30 people from 19 households and a company in the city of Joso, Ibaraki prefecture near Tokyo, filed the suit with the Shimotsuma branch of the Mito District Court.

According to the plaintiffs, the government failed to revamp a dike that was aging and not high enough and did not have enough flood-control measures in place, as heavy rain hit the area in September 2015 and caused a flood that killed two people and destroyed more than 8,000 buildings.

The plaintiffs sought a total of 335 million yen (3 million U.S. dollars) in compensation for their losses and for the mental suffering.

Yasushi Tadano, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said the lawsuit could help people living by rivers in other parts of Japan to review the flood control measures in their areas.

An official from Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism said the ministry had not read the complaint yet and declined to comment on the issue.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 22:18:45|Editor: Yamei

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KHARTOUM, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Sudan and Egypt on Tuesday agreed to enhance military cooperation, and jointly control border and combat terrorism.

A session of joint military talks was held at the premises of Sudan's Defence Ministry, chaired by Sudanese Army's Chief of Staff, Kamal Abdul-Marouf, and Egyptian Military Chief of Staff, Mahmoud Hegazy.

"We are looking forward to horizons of joint work and cooperation to develop the relations in all fields," said Abdul-Marouf when addressing the opening of the talks.

He stressed that security is a strategic issue upon which political and economic ties are built, saying there is need for building partnership and openness in military cooperation on regional, Arab and African surroundings.

He reiterated importance of enhancing bilateral efforts on the pivotal roles of the armed forces, with regard to securing the border and combating terrorism, human trafficking, illegal immigration and smuggling of arms and drugs.

Egyptian Military Chief of Staff, Mahmoud Hegazy, urged for maintaining the two countries' ties in a manner that prevents any attempt to disturb them.

"It is important to boost the ties and support the strategic interests of the two countries, develop the military and security cooperation in fields of securing the border, combating all forms of terrorism and smuggling and enhancing the security in the Red Sea," added Hegazy.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 22:28:49|Editor: Liangyu

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LUSAKA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Zambia on Tuesday thanked China for dispatching medical teams to help the country improve health care for four decades.

A ceremony to celebrate 40 years of the presence of Chinese medical teams in Zambia was held in Lusaka, with the Zambian government showering accolades on the contributions of Chinese medical professionals.

"We want to place on record our gratitude to the people of China and the Chinese government for this great cooperation," said Zambian Minister of Health Chitalu Chilufya.

The Zambian government is grateful over the professionalism, ethical and hardworking culture of the various teams that have been coming to the country since 1978, Chilufya said.

Zambia, he said, appreciates China's role in strengthening the country's health services not only in terms of infrastructure but human resource development as well.

Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Li Jie said the exchanges between the two countries in the health sector have continuously pushed forward the development of bilateral relations.

Over the past four decades, Li said, China has helped Zambia elevate its health service standards through the dispatch of regular medical teams, special expert groups, and training programs in both Zambia and China.

He said China will continue to carry forward the traditional friendship between the two countries to deepen practical cooperation in health and other sectors.

Jiang Hongwei, head of the 20th Chinese medical team in Zambia, said a total of 546 doctors have come to Zambia and treated more than 3 million patients since 1978.

The Chinese medical teams will continue to uphold the glorious tradition of assisting their counterparts in Zambia to deepen medical and health exchanges, Jiang said.
CANBERRA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Australia's population has hit 25 million mark, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) confirmed on Tuesday.

The milestone was hit shortly after 11 p.m. Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) on Tuesday, the ABS said.

"Australia's population has increased more than sixfold since 1901 when it was 3.8 million," Anthony Grubb, Director of Demography at the ABS, said in a media release.

"By 1918 it had grown to 5 million, it had doubled to 10 million by 1959 and reached 20 million in October 2004. It has been just over 2.5 years since we reached 24 million in January 2016."

Migration overtook natural increase as the biggest driver of Australia's population growth in 2005 for the first time since the gold rushes of the 1850s.

According to the ABS, net overseas migration currently accounts for 62 percent of the nation's population growth and natural increase 38 percent.

The growth has sparked calls for the government to cut the number of migrants allowed into Australia each year by half.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has dismissed such a dramatic cut but along with Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton, did reduce the number of migrants to the lowest level in over a decade in 2017.

Caroline Sullivan, a Professor of Environmental Economics from Southern Cross University, said that the solution for Australia's population growth was to further spread the population.

"Australia is the world's sixth largest country by area, yet, according to the UN, we are 53rd in terms of population," she said in a media release on Tuesday.

"With the population of the world continuing to grow exponentially, there is no likelihood of a decrease in human pressure on productive resources, and if Australia is to prosper in a sustainable future, we must recognise that this huge land area will have to provide a home for many more people in the future."

Citizenship Minister Alan Tudge agreed with Sullivan's position, confirming that the government was working to channel more migrants to rural areas.

According to Tudge, 87 percent of the 111,000 people who arrived in Australia on skilled migrant visas in 2017 settled in either Melbourne or Sydney -- Australia's two biggest and fastest-growing cities.

"If the population was distributed more evenly, there would not be the congestion pressures that we have today in Melbourne and Sydney," Tudge said.

"Meanwhile, we have other parts of Australia wanting more people," Tudge said.

ABS data revealed that women made up the majority of the population with 98 males per 100 females compared to 110 males per 100 females in 1901.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 22:38:51|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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SKOPJE, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Seven people, allegedly active in the wars in Syria and Iraq, were arrested during a police action in Macedonia, local media reported on Tuesday.

According to the police, the arrested persons are between the ages of 23 and 47, for whom there was an international arrest warrant.

"Seven Macedonian citizens have been arrested, for whom there are suspicions that foreign terrorist fighters have actively participated in the wars in Syria and Iraq," the Macedonian Ministry of Internal Affairs said in a statement.

According to the police, this action provides clear indications that Macedonia can face current security challenges and that it is a serious partner of the global coalition in the fight against terrorism.

"In the framework of the global coalition for the fight against terrorism, the Republic of Macedonia continues with ongoing activities in terms of detecting, identifying, neutralizing and prosecuting foreign fighters," the statement said.

According to the Criminal Code of Macedonia, participation or recruitment of persons to be involved in foreign wars constitutes a criminal offense for which a punishment of at least five years is prescribed.

According to data from the Macedonian Ministry of Internal Affairs, 150 Macedonian citizens are involved in the wars in Syria and Iraq. Of them, 80 people have returned to the country.
LOMBOK, Indonesia, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- An Indonesian official at the Tourism Ministry said here on Tuesday that the ministry is focusing on the efforts to evacuate foreign tourists stranded in three popular islands of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air near the quake-hit Lombok island.

Death toll from Sunday's 7.0-magnitude quake in Indonesia reached 105 so far while a total of 4,636 visitors have been evacuated from the three islands near Lombok, according to latest official figure.

Close coordination with military, police and related institutions was underway now, Assistant Deputy Tourism Minister for Asia Pacific Marketing Development Vicentius Jemadu told Xinhua.

He said that vessels involved in the joint operation to evacuate foreign tourists have transported them to Bangsal and Bali ports and the operation also provides shuttle buses to hotels in downtown capital city of Mataram.

Hotel rooms were provided free for the affected foreign tourists after the evacuation from the three islands, he said.

However most of the tourists preferred to directly stay in the airport to ensure obtaining flights tickets to get them out of Lombok, he added.

Government has also engaged national airlines to provide extra flights from Lombok for the foreign tourists with Lombok airport is opened 24 hours to facilitate more frequent flights.

He estimated that the whole process to evacuate foreign tourists from Lombok may take a week.

"Tourist safety is government's priority through those measures we expect them to come back again to Indonesia and Lombok in the future," he said.

Apart from that, tourism recovery in Lombok may take three to six months due to damages in tourism infrastructure and accommodations following the powerful earthquake, he said.

The ministry would work hard to recover the tourism in Lombok as the exotic island was part of the nation's prioritized destination to attract foreign tourists.

"A coordinated effort with tourism stakeholders in Lombok and our ministry was still underway to update data on the affected tourism infrastructure and accommodation so as to make us easier in rebuilding those facilities," Jemadu said.

The strong earthquake has severed power supply, water installation and severely damaged hotels in Lombok that made many of them closed their operations, particularly those located in stricken areas, like in district of Senggigi that is popular among foreign tourists.

Cracks in hotel walls, fallen roof tiles and collapsed lobbies were obviously seen in several hotels in Senggigi that located alongside Lombok's beautiful beach facing Bali island.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 22:48:53|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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MOMBASA, Kenya, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said on Tuesday that he would lobby for an observer status for the African Confederation of Principals (ACP) at the African Union.

Opening the 10th ACP meeting in Kenya's coastal city of Mombasa, Kenyatta said he would lobby other African heads of state to give an observer status to the group so they can engage directly with the continent's top leadership.

"You have the Herculean task to mentor the children of Africa. There should be a forum you can use to engage with the African Union," he told more than 1,200 school principals from several African countries.

According to a statement issued after the opening ceremony, Kenyatta said teachers have one of the biggest roles in moulding new generations of Africans and their input in Pan-Africanism is invaluable.

"Pan-Africanism and unity matter in our advancement as a people," he said.

Kenyatta challenged the confederation to get the membership of all African countries before they present a request for observer status at the AU.

The east African nation is scheduled to take over the presidency of the teacher's organization, whose goal is to benchmark on the best teaching practices across the continent.

The ACP also wants to bid for Kenya to host the International Confederation of Principals meeting in 2021.
Selection of envoy to India in limbo

The government is thinking over an alternative for Neel Kantha Uprety, the proposed ambassador for India, since the Cabinet has not authenticated his recommendation.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 22:58:56|Editor: Li Xia

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BERLIN, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Daimler will halt all of its commercial operations in Iran "until further notice" in response to the re-imposition of U.S. sanctions against Teheran, the German carmaker announced on Tuesday.

The Stuttgart-based company noted that it previously only had "limited activities" in the Islamic Republic as well but would now refrain from plans to expand its presence there first announced in the wake of the Iran nuclear accord in early 2016.

At the time, Daimler said it would team up with a local partner to manufacture and sell trucks for the Iranian market.

"The Iranian economy and automotive market have developed much weaker than anticipated. We continue to monitor the political developments, in particular with view to the future of the nuclear accord very closely," a Daimler statement read.

Speaking to Xinhua on Tuesday, a spokesperson for another German automaker Volkswagen Group similarly said that the company would "monitor the political and economic environment in Iran and the surrounding region very closely".

The spokesperson emphasized that Volkswagen "abided by all national and international laws and export regulations", while adding that the Wolfsburg-based carmaker would assess the implications of re-imposed U.S. sanctions in this context.

As of Tuesday, a first round of U.S. economic sanctions against Iran which were announced by U.S. President Donald Trump back in May have now taken effect.

In typically-abrasive style, Trump wrote on Twitter that he had signed-off the "most biting sanctions ever imposed" and warned companies across the world that they would have to choose between maintaining commercial links with the United States or with Iran.

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States," Trump said.

The European Union reiterated its objection to the re-imposition of U.S. sanctions on Tuesday and announced that it would seek to enable Iran to continue exporting petroleum beyond October.

Berlin and Brussels both view the Iran nuclear accord signed by the United States, China, Russia, Germany, France and the United Kingdom in 2015 as a landmark diplomatic deal worth preserving.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 22:58:57|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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DAMASCUS, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian Foreign Ministry on Tuesday condemned the U.S. decision to reimpose sanctions on Iran, saying it supports Iran in the face of the "aggressive" U.S. policies, according to the state news agency SANA.

The ministry said the sanctions were "unilateral and illegitimate measures that come to confirm the tendency of hegemony and arrogance of the policies of the U.S. administration after losing credibility upon withdrawing from the Iranian nuclear deal."

While expressing full solidarity with Iran, Syria's government key regional backer, the ministry said the Syrian government is confident that Iran will overcome the negative outcome of the U.S. sanctions on Iran.

Despite a global outcry, the White House on Monday vowed to reimpose and fully enforce sanctions on Iran lifted under the nuclear deal.

The first batch of sanctions, which went into effect on Tuesday, target Tehran's purchase of U.S. banknotes, trade in gold and other precious metals, as well as the use of graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software used in industrial processes.

They will also affect transactions related to the Iranian Rial, the issuance of sovereign debts, and the country's automotive sector.

Another round of sanctions, to be reinstalled on Nov. 5, will be on Iran's port, energy, shipping and shipbuilding sectors, its petroleum-related transactions, and business deals by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.

The Trump administration will also relist hundreds of individuals, entities, vessels, and aircraft that were previously included on sanctions lists.

Washington said it would reimpose tough sanctions on the Iranian government when it declared to leave the Iran nuke deal in May. It also laid out two wind-down periods of 90 days and 180 days for business activities in or involving Iran.

The latest sanctions were reimposed after Monday, the final day of the 90-day wind-down period.

Accusing Tehran of having "exploited the global financial system to fund its malign activities," the White House said. "The Trump Administration intends to fully enforce the sanctions reimposed against Iran, and those who fail to wind down activities with Iran risk severe consequences."
ISLAMABAD, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday officially notified successful candidates in the July 25 elections, which is a major step towards the government formation.

President of Pakistan will now summon the first session of the National Assembly or Lower House of the parliament for the oath taking ceremony of the members-elect.

The members will elect speaker and deputy speaker after taking oath and later the house will elect the country's new prime minister.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf or PTI, which emerged the largest party in the elections, has formally nominated its chief Imran Khan for the prime minister.

Shehbaz Sharif, the president of the opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the younger brother of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, will contest against Imran Khan. Shehbaz is the joint candidate of the opposition parties.

The ECP posted results of the National Assembly and four provincial assemblies on its website.

Notification of Imran Khan on two seats out of five seats he had won has been withheld due to cases pending with the ECP over violation of code of conduct.

Pakistani laws allow an individual to contest election on more than one seat but the member-elect can keep only one seat in the lower house, so Khan will have to leave four seats.

Some defeated candidates have moved the courts for recounting of the votes.

Notification regarding successful candidates nominated for reserved seats in the National Assembly will be issued on Saturday. According to the constitution, there are 342 seats in the National Assembly out of which 272 are directly elected, while 60 are reserved for women and 10 for religious minorities.

Reserved seats are distributed among the parties on the basis of the number of elected members in elections on general seats.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 23:14:03|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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CAIRO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Egypt offered on Tuesday its condolences to Indonesia over the victims of the recent deadly 7.0-magnitude earthquake that hit the Indonesian island of Lombok, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The massive quake that took place on Sunday evening left at least 105 people dead and 236 injured so far, while the Indonesian authorities evacuated more than 4,600 tourists from the three islands near Lombok.

"The Egyptian government and people offer their condolences to their Indonesian counterparts and to the families of the victims over the painful accident," said the Egyptian statement.

Egypt expressed confidence in the ability of the Indonesian people to overcome the calamity.

Indonesia's authorities expect the number of victims to rise as the assessment work continues.

The quake had a 15-km depth and an epicenter 18 km northwest of Lombok Timur in West Nusa Tenggara province.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 23:19:06|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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MOSCOW, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Russia said Tuesday it would do everything to preserve and fully implement the Iran nuclear deal, also known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which is under threat by U.S. unilateral sanctions.

"The introduction of the first batch of U.S. restrictions is aimed at disrupting the implementation of the JCPOA, which Washington unilaterally abandoned on May 8," a Russian Foreign Ministry statement said.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday signed an executive order to restore sanctions against Iran.

The first batch of sanctions, which took effect Tuesday, target Tehran's purchase of U.S. banknotes, trade in gold and other precious metals, as well as the use of graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software in industrial processes.

They will also affect transactions related to Iran's currency, the Rial, the issuance of sovereign debts and the country's automotive sector.

"We condemn any unilateral sanctions in circumvention of the decisions of the UN (United Nations) Security Council, especially when they have extraterritorial application and affect the interests of third countries," the Russian ministry said.

Long-term experience shows that it is not possible to get concessions from Iran by pressure, it said.

It recalled that the JCPOA, signed in 2015 between Iran, and the P5+1 -- Russia, France, China, Britain, the United States, plus Germany -- had proved its effectiveness.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regularly confirms that Iran strictly adheres to its obligations and applies in full the measures of verification and control envisaged in the plan, it said.

The international community must not allow such significant achievements of multilateral diplomacy to be sacrificed to U.S. attempts to settle old political scores with Iran, in particular, those not related to the JCPOA, the statement said.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 23:34:11|Editor: huaxia

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LAGOS, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Nigerian Presidency on Tuesday described the unauthorized invasion by operatives of the Department of State Services as a gross violation of law.

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo said the blockade of the National Assembly, which was done without the knowledge of the Presidency, was condemnable and completely unacceptable.

Osinbajo assured Nigerians that anybody involved in the act would be punished.

According to him, those within the law enforcement apparatus who participated in this incident will be identified and subjected to appropriate disciplinary action.

The acting president had earlier sacked the director-general of the Department of State Services, Lawal Daura, over the incident.

Daura was appointed to head the agency on July 2 following the sacking of Ita Ekpeyong by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Police and operatives of the DSS early on Tuesday blocked the main gate of the National Assembly, preventing lawmakers and staff from gaining access into the complex.

The security operatives, however, later allowed the lawmakers access into the complex while journalists and other staff were barred. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 23:34:12|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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GUANGZHOU, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Guangdong Provincial Higher People's Court on Tuesday upheld a death sentence for the former Communist Party chief of Boshe Village, convicted of drug production and trafficking.

Boshe, under the jurisdiction of Lufeng, used to be called the country's "top drug-production village" as it supplied over one-third of the nation's crystal meth.

After a trial in 2016, Cai Dongjia, former Party secretary of Boshe, was sentenced to death for smuggling and manufacturing drugs and covering for criminals. The Higher People's Court in Guangdong rejected Cai's appeal against the verdict.

Meanwhile, the court upheld the verdicts against the other two involved in the case who were sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve for smuggling and producing drugs.

More than 3,000 police officers raided the village in the early morning of Dec. 29, 2013, seizing three tonnes of crystal meth and capturing more than 180 suspects, including Cai.

The court found that the three, who started producing drugs in 2011, had manufactured a total of 330 kg of crystal meth and sold it for profit.

The court also found that twice in late 2013 Cai offered bribes in an attempt to help free his accomplices who had been detained by police in Huizhou.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 23:39:15|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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VILNIUS, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Lithuania's ruling Farmers and Greens Union (LZVS) has not decided whether it would nominate one or "a few" candidates for the next presidential election, Prime Minister Saulius Skvernelis said on Tuesday.

"When the right moment comes, corresponding political decisions will be made. Possibly more than one candidate will be nominated," Skvernelis said in an interview with local radio broadcaster LRT Radijas.

"I don't think the decision will be made before early 2019," he added.

Lithuania's presidential elections will take place in May 2019 and will produce a new one to replace the incumbent President Dalia Grybauskaite.

Prime Minister Skvernelis is mentioned by local political experts as one of most likely candidates from the ruling LZVS union.

Skvernelis eluded the question whether he personally wished to participate in the election.

"You can wish many things but it often happens that these wishes don't come true," the head of Lithuanian government was quoted as saying by LRT Radijas.

He said Lithuania's government is currently facing "many challenges" as regards implementing decisions newly-adopted by the country's parliament.

"If anyone at the cabinet would start to think about the election, it would undoubtedly have some effect on the work quality," Skvernelis noted.

Meanwhile, leader of LZVS Ramunas Karbauskis said in a separate interview on Tuesday that Skvernelis would be the ruling party's "best candidate" for the next year's election if Skvernelis agrees to participate.

"His leadership is obvious, his government is working successfully. He is seen by the society as a person who could lead the state," Karbauskis was quoted as saying by local media.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 23:44:17|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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BEIRUT, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese ministers insisted Tuesday on regulating private generators business after the sector refused to lower prices as set by the energy ministry amid energy shortfall in the country, independent online news Elnashra reported.

"We will install meters to private generators to measure the exact consumption of electricity in order to determine the exact prices that should be paid by citizens," Caretaker Energy Minister Cesar Abi Khalil was quoted as saying.

His remarks came during a joint press conference held with Caretaker Economy Minister Raed Khoury and Caretaker Interior Minister Nouhad Machnouk.

Abi Khalil insisted that the prices set by the ministry each month are calculated based on a scientific formula.

Lebanese residents usually turn to private operators during power outages, which charge higher than Karadeniz, owner of the three power barges operating in Lebanon, not to mention the state-owned electricity company.

"Citizens are paying for private generators prices that are higher than what they are consuming and this is unfair," said Abi Khalil.

Meanwhile, Khoury said that the government will not allow owners of private generators to take advantage of Lebanese citizens.

"We will also not allow any form of violation in this area," he said.

He added that the interior ministry will secure the generators if needed to provide citizens with electricity.

Meanwhile, owners of private generators in Lebanese southwestern city of Sidon rejected on Monday the energy ministry's decision to reduce their price per kilowatt from 412 Lebanese pounds (0.27 U.S. dollars) in July to 332 pounds in August.

"We call upon head of Sidon municipality to get in touch with the ministry and convince the officials to change the price in a bid to ensure the stability of this sector," owners of private generators were quoted as saying.

Governor of South Lebanon Mansour Daw announced Monday that owners of private generators have no other choice but to accept the price set by the energy ministry.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-07 23:49:19|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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BEIJING, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Health authorities and healthcare institutions across China must provide observation and consultation services for people who have received rabies vaccines from Changchun Changsheng Life Sciences Ltd., according to a statement issued by the National Health Commission (NHC) Tuesday.

The measure is aimed at safeguarding the health and safety of the public and protecting the legitimate rights of vaccine recipients, the NHC said in the statement.

Clearly marked information desks should be set up in vaccination clinics, with experienced medical staff available to answer questions and provide follow-up tests and treatment for vaccine recipients, according to the statement.

A State Council investigation team has stepped up efforts to investigate the affected human rabies vaccines. A recall has been launched for rabies vaccines produced by Changchun Changsheng in both the domestic and overseas markets.

Investigators found the company had violated rules on production management and national drug standards for the vaccines from as early as April 2014. The violations included blending expired fluids to produce certain products and falsifying production dates.
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Tambo Mobiles debuts 8 new models in Nepal

New mobile brand Tambo Mobiles has forayed into the Nepali smartphone market with the launch of six feature phones and two smartphones.
TOKYO, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo Medical University admitted Tuesday that it had routinely tampered with entrance exam scores to limit the enrollment of female students and male students who had failed the exam a number of times before.

The university said at a press conference related to the matter that it will consider ways in which it can recompense students who failed the entrance exam due to its practice of deliberately deducting exam points from students it did not want to enroll.

It also said the practice, which has been inherent at the university for 12 years, will be "rooted out."

Keisuke Miyazawa, acting president of the university, said he plans to hold talks with the government on the possibility of accepting students retroactively if it was found that their examination scores had been tampered with.

Yoshimasa Hayashi, Japan's education minister, said that he will launch an immediate probe into all universities in Japan with a medical department to ensure such examination score tampering is not occurring.

One of the lawyers, who had been conducting an internal probe into the university's practice of tampering with examination results and allowing "backdoor" admissions to some students in return for favors, said the practice was discriminatory.

"The deduction of marks, which began in 2006 or earlier is nothing but discrimination against women," the lawyer was quoted as saying.

An investigative report by the lawyers also highlighted the fact that the university's former Chairmen Masahiko Usui and former President Mamoru Suzuki were indicted last month by Tokyo prosecutors on bribery charges related to the son of a former education ministry bureau chief being admitted to the school with a padded exam score in exchange for favoritism related to a government subsidy program.

The lawyers' report also revealed that executives also padded the scores of some applicants of former graduates so the university could commandeer more donations from their parents.

The lawyers also attested that all entrance examination scores for women were deducted, as ordered by Usui and with the knowledge of Suzuki and another senior official at another renown university, to prevent a shortage of doctors at the university's affiliated hospitals.

The medical college reportedly believe that female doctors are more likely to resign or take extended leaves of absence after marrying and giving birth and wanted to keep its ratio of women studying at the university at around 30 percent, with only specific applicants allowed to pass its entrance exam.

Sources close to the matter have also revealed that the university was opposed to accepting male applicants who had failed the entrance test multiple times before because they also have a tendency to fail the national exam to become licensed medical practitioners.

This, the university believed, would drag down the university's overall ratio of successful applicants and dent its reputation.

The sources also said that there were examination invigilators at the university that used a specific manual to guide the process of manipulating students' points to control the enrollment process.

The university's admission of discriminatory practices has drawn a harsh backlash from the medical community in Japan including representatives from the the Japan Joint Association of Medical Professional Women and the Japan Medical Women's Association.
China signs an agreement with the United Nations Relief and Work Agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) to provide 2.35 million U.S. dollars support to the Gaza food program for 2018. (Xinhua/Zhao Yue)

RAMALLAH, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- China signed an agreement with the United Nations Relief and Work Agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) on Tuesday to provide 2.35 million U.S. dollars support to the Gaza food program for 2018.

The agreement was signed by Guo Wei, director of the Office of the People's Republic of China to the State of Palestine, and Pierre Krahenbuhl, the UNRWA commissioner general.

The UNRWA called the agreement a generous support from the Chinese government amid the agency's funding shortfall after the United States cut its aid by over a half.

Krahenbuhl said China has historically given "great attention to the issue of Palestine and has always shown attention and solidarity for Palestine refugees throughout the region."

Guo reiterated the China's unwavering position in supporting Palestinians through various channels, and declared that "China would like to announce a grant of 100 million yuan (14.64 million dollars) in helping the economy development and improving living conditions of Palestinians."

He also said China will provide emergency humanitarian assistance to Palestinians and make further contributions to the UNRWA.

The U.S. aid cut came after it threatened to reduce financial support to the Palestinians unless they agree to return to the negotiation table with Israel, which has been stalled for four years.

Palestinian officials said the U.S. move comes in line with President Donald Trump's attempt to ignore the final issues of the Palestinian-Israel peace process, removing the issues of Jerusalem and the refugees "off the table," which he also wrote on twitter after he recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital on Dec. 6, 2017.

The UNRWA said recently it has succeeded in reducing deficit from 446 million dollars to 217 million dollars, but warned that it would have to cut its services because of the deficit.

The UNRWA has over 700 schools serving almost 525,000 children and offers healthcare for some 3.5 million refugees through a network of 150 clinics. In addition, the agency's food and cash assistance program offers some 1.7 million dollars to extremely vulnerable refugees.

Throughout the region, the agency serves 5.3 million Palestinian refugees.

China has formerly urged the international community to help the UNRWA overcome its financial crisis in order to uphold its obligations towards millions of refugees who rely on the UNRWA services, particularly in Gaza Strip, where the humanitarian crisis deepens.
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Politicians voted Monday night to urge for the removal of President Donald Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, West Hollywood mayor said.

West Hollywood Mayor John Duran and Councilwoman Lindsey Horvath offered a resolution Monday night urging the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to remove the president's star "due to his disturbing treatment of women and other actions that do not meet the shared values of the City of West Hollywood, the region, state, and country."

The City Council voted unanimously, and passed the resolution. The decision will ultimately be up to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.

"West Hollywood City council unanimously passes resolution asking the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to remove the Donald Trump star on Hollywood Walk of Fame," the Mayor posted on Twitter.

The council's staff report on the resolution also cited the Trump administration's separation of immigrant families at the U.S. border and Trump's "denial of findings from the United States intelligence community regarding Russian interference in the 2016 election and continued refusal to hold Russia accountable for its crimes."

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has never removed a marker from the Walk of Fame and turned down a 2015 request to remove comedian Bill Cosby's star.

Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame has been vandalized repeatedly in recent years. In regard to the most recent vandalism, a man accused of smashing Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame with a pickaxe was charged Monday with felony vandalism, according to the City News Service, a local news outlet.

Following the vandalism, the CEO of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which administers the Walk of Fame, urged would-be vandals to vote if they wanted to make a political statement.

Trump earned his star back in 2007. Trump's star is currently boarded over.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-08 00:39:39|Editor: Li Xia

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DAMASCUS, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian government forces are making progress in the battles against the Islamic State (IS) in the southern province of Sweida, the group's last strongholds in southern Syria, a war monitor reported on Tuesday.

The battles are raging in the eastern and northeastern desert region of Sweida in a bid by the Syrian government forces to end the presence of IS in its last strongholds in southern Syria, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The Britain-based watchdog group said the army is advancing under intense fire cover from artillery and airstrikes in areas east and northeast of Sweida.

The government forces have also apprehended an IS fighter after midnight Tuesday during a suicide attack launched by IS on a position held by the Syrian Social Nationalist Party (SSNP), which is a pro-Syrian government group.

The observatory said four members of the SSNP were killed in the suicide bombing, adding that the people in Sweida hanged the IS fighter that was caught in the midnight incident.

The situation in Sweida flared since July 25, when IS fighters launched a surprise attack on towns in the eastern countryside of Sweida and suicide bombing inside the city.

The attacks and bombing led to the killing of over 255 people, the highest death toll in Sweida since the beginning of the Syrian crisis over seven years ago.

The locals with the help of the army managed to push back IS, which kidnapped 30 people during the offensive.

The Syrian forces unleashed an assault on desert areas east of Sweida on Sunday, managing to make progress amid fears for the lives of the hostages after the IS militants executed one of the abductees, who was a 19-year-old man.

The IS militants launched their offensive on Sweida to release the pressure on their comrades in the nearby countryside of Daraa.

The observatory said negotiations were taking place between IS and the Syrian forces for the release of the hostages from IS custody in exchange for the acceptance of the Syrian army to grant a safe passage for dozens of IS militants trapped in the countryside of Daraa near Sweida.

However, the negotiations have resulted in nothing but more confrontation as IS executed its first hostage on Thursday amid fears for the lives of the rest of the 30 hostages.

The Syrian army seems to be determined to root out IS from the desert east of Sweida after the mass deaths of people during the July 25 attack.
File photo shows Nigerian police officers beef up security during the governorship primary elections in Lagos, southwest Nigeria, Dec. 8, 2014. (Xinhua/Idowu Ogunleye)

by Olatunji Saliu

ABUJA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A sudden invasion of the Nigerian parliament in the capital Abuja by security operatives ended Tuesday afternoon after raising political tension across the West African country.

The masked security operatives were seen driving away in black vans at about 2:50 p.m. As early as 7 a.m., they took over the national parliament and blocked access to the building.

National lawmakers, journalists and staff of the national parliament were denied access to the parliament by the security operatives who claimed to be acting on "an order from above."

The security operatives, mainly from the self-styled Department of State Services (DSS), later allowed only identified lawmakers into the parliament premises.

The development had caused palpable tension in the country as most citizens suspected a political undertone to the act.

The unauthorized takeover of the parliament by security operatives was roundly condemned as "anti-democratic."

Local political analysts have called the development a "dangerous power game between the ruling party and the main opposition party."

Nigeria's acting president Yemi Osinbajo, after condemning the act, fired the director general of the State Security Service (or mostly known as DSS by Nigerians).

The termination of Lawal Musa Daura's appointment as secret police chief was announced in a statement by the Presidency in a twitter post.

Details remain not immediately known on the reason for the sacking, but the DSS operatives were withdrawn from the parliament soon after the sacking announcement.

Osinbajo had earlier summoned an emergency meeting with the duo of Daura and Ibrahim Idris, the inspector general of police, following the unauthorized takeover of the national parliament.

Osinbajo described the unauthorized takeover of the National Assembly as "a gross violation of the constitutional order, rule of law and all acceptable notions of law and order."

According to him, the unlawful act was done without the knowledge of the Presidency.

The acting president, thereafter, said those within the law enforcement apparatus who participated in the incident will be identified and subjected to appropriate disciplinary action.

As tension rose across the country over the development, the leadership of the National Assembly had to call off a meeting scheduled for Tuesday. The crucial meeting would probably have paved way for the reconvening of the Senate and House of Representatives.

Some opposition senators, who were caught in the blockade, interpreted it as a move to forcefully unseat the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, who dumped the governing party for the main opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP) last week.

The main opposition party accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of orchestrating the security invasion of the parliament as an assault on democracy.

The ruling party has denied the allegation, saying it had no hand in the unauthorized invasion of the parliament.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-08 01:24:49|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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KIEV, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Ukraine regards China as a strategically important trade partner and sees prospects for further strengthening the bilateral trade, Ukrainian First Vice Prime Minister Stepan Kubiv said on Tuesday.

In 2017, China was Ukraine's top trading partner in the Asia-Pacific region and the second-largest trading partner in the world, with bilateral trade turnover amounting to 7.7 billion U.S. dollars, Kubiv wrote on Facebook.

The "Export Strategy of Ukraine" defines China as one of the most promising markets for the exports of Ukrainian goods, Kubiv added.

He voiced the hope that Ukraine's participation in the first China International Import Expo (CIIE) will give a significant impetus to the intensification of trade between Ukraine and China and the development of other fields of interaction.

The CIIE, a major event organized by the Chinese government to promote a new round of high-level opening-up, will be held in Shanghai from Nov. 5 to 10 this year. Ukraine plans to send a 200-strong business delegation to the expo and display an exhibition stand uniting 19 companies.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-08 01:29:51|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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WARSAW, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- More than 1,000 tonnes of illegal rubbish, which was intercepted at the port of Gdynia, northern Poland, will be returned to Britain, local news agency IAR reported on Tuesday.

The rubbish was hidden in about 45 containers and marked as containing recyclable plastics and rubber. It was detected in a joint operation by Polish environment and treasury offices last month.

Cartons, metal beverage cans, packaging for domestic detergent and even engine oil has also been found, said Marian Mazur of the environmental protection office in Gdansk.

"Everything was dirty, smelly and wet," he added.

IAR reported that the containers, destined for two Polish waste-processing companies, were shipped from six British firms. The items should have been approved by Poland's environmental protection office before being shipped.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (1st R) meets with his Ukrainian counterpart Pavlo Klimkin (1st L) in New York, the United States, on Sept. 18, 2017. (Xinhua/Li Rui)

KIEV, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Ukraine regards China as a strategically important trade partner and sees prospects for further strengthening the bilateral trade, Ukrainian First Vice Prime Minister Stepan Kubiv said on Tuesday.

In 2017, China was Ukraine's top trading partner in the Asia-Pacific region and the second-largest trading partner in the world, with bilateral trade turnover amounting to 7.7 billion U.S. dollars, Kubiv wrote on Facebook.

The "Export Strategy of Ukraine" defines China as one of the most promising markets for the exports of Ukrainian goods, Kubiv added.

He voiced the hope that Ukraine's participation in the first China International Import Expo (CIIE) will give a significant impetus to the intensification of trade between Ukraine and China and the development of other fields of interaction.

The CIIE, a major event organized by the Chinese government to promote a new round of high-level opening-up, will be held in Shanghai from Nov. 5 to 10 this year. Ukraine plans to send a 200-strong business delegation to the expo and display an exhibition stand uniting 19 companies.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-08 02:25:04|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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TRIPOLI, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Libya's UN-backed government said on Tuesday that the date of the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections is decided by the Libyans only.

"The elections, their course and date, are a matter for the Libyans alone, which Chairman of the Presidential Council of Libya Fayez Serraj has confirmed," government spokesman Mohamed al-Sallak told a press conference in the capital Tripoli.

Serraj, prime minister of the UN-backed Libyan government, stressed that "all concerned parties, especially those who participated in the Paris Declaration, must assume their responsibility and abide by their duties," al-Sallak said.

Italian Ambassador to Libya Giuseppe Perrone said earlier this week that holding elections in Libya before the end of this year is not possible as Rome does not advocate it, sparking resentment and protests in some Libyan cities.

Also, a number of Libyan officials denounced Perrone's statement as "blatant interference in the internal affairs of the country."

France in May hosted a meeting on Libya with the participation of different Libyan parties to end the political crisis.

The parties agreed to commit themselves to holding "credible" presidential and parliamentary elections slated for Dec. 10.

Despite a UN-sponsored political agreement signed in December 2015, Libya remains politically divided between rival governments in the east and west of the country, both competing for legitimacy.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-08 02:45:09|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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MADRID, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- A Moroccan man aged 21 has been arrested in Vitoria in Northern Spain on charges of planning attack in Spain with another terrorist, the Spanish Interior Ministry informed on Tuesday.

The jihadist, who belonged to terrorist group Islamic State (IS), also allegedly recruited terrorists for jihad, according to Spanish police.

Police said the Moroccan man experienced a drastic change in his habits of life and in his manifestations, who moved to extremist Salafist postulates, and even defended in social networks violent actions perpetrated by terrorist organizations, especially DAESH.

He contacted with another terrorist who was arrested in 2017 in Morocco for intending to attack in Spain, while inciting him to commit these massacres with audiovisual material about the terrorist organization DAESH.

Spanish police highlighted that the cooperation between Spain and Morocco was also key to dismantling the intentions of the arrested.

"The cooperation, along with the permanent alert of both countries in prevention, detection and neutralization of potential terrorist elements, is fruitful. These operations allow us to deactivate this type of threats on both sides," said the police.

This new arrest shows the special attention that Spain pays to jihadism. Since the country raised its Antiterrorist Alert Level to 4 out of 5 in 2015, the security forces have arrested 297 jihadists.
Achyut Wagle holds PhD in economics and is currently a professor at the Kathmandu University School of Management. He is an econo-political analyst, writing for The Kathmandu Post for many years.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-08 04:00:33|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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ANKARA, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will pay an official visit to Germany on Sept. 28-29, the state-run Anadolu Agency reported Tuesday.

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier will greet Erdogan with military honors, the agency reported, citing the spokeswoman of German Presidency.

During his two-day visit, Erdogan will also meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the report added.

The Turkey-Germany relation was strained last year ahead of Turkey's constitutional referendum on April 16, which aimed to transform the country's political system to presidential one. German authorities banned the ruling Justice and Development Party from organizing campaign events there on security grounds.

Moreover, since the failed coup attempt in July 2016, Turkey's large-scale crackdown towards Gulen Movement has drawn criticism from German politicians. Ankara also criticized Berlin for not handing over asylum seekers accused of involvement in the failed coup.

Erdogan made his last official visit to Berlin in February 2014.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-08 04:10:35|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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BEIRUT, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Major General Stefano Del Col of Italy on Tuesday took over command of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), the UNIFIL said in a statement.

At a ceremony at the UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura in southern Lebanon, Del Col succeeded Major General Michael Beary of Ireland as the new head of the mission and force commander.

"I will continue to lead UNIFIL along the path towards the implementation of our mandate under Security Council Resolution 1701 and associated UN resolutions," Del Col was quoted as saying.

The hand-over ceremony was attended by Lebanese State Minister for Combating Corruption Nicolas Tueini, representing both the Lebanese president and the prime minister, Parliament member Ali Bazzi, representing the Parliament Speaker, Italian Defense Minister Elisabetta Trenta, Lebanese Armed Forces Commander Joseph Aoun, and other senior military and security officials.

Del Col spoke of his previous two rounds of duty with UNIFIL in 2008 and 2014. "For me this is like coming back home. I hope that we will serve this mission in peace," he told the audience.

The general said he expected to work closely with Lebanese security agencies, armed forces, and civilian agencies to "secure the future of Lebanon and the Lebanese people."

Lebanon has frequently announced its commitment to UN resolution 1701, which ended Israel's 34-day war on Lebanon in the summer of 2006.

The resolution called for an end to hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah forces, the deployment of the Lebanese Army along the Israeli border, and the establishment of a weapons-free zone south of the Litani River.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-08 04:40:42|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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BEIRUT, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri said Tuesday there is a push by the international community to accelerate the formation of a government in Lebanon.

"There is an international push to form a government in Lebanon and to start with the reform plans adopted by CEDRE," he was quoted by online newspaper Elnashra as saying.

Hariri was referring to the international conference for supporting Lebanon's development and reforms held in April in Paris, France, which pledges over 11 billion U.S. dollars in aid for Lebanon.

"I am being blamed for the delay in government formation while every political party is insisting on its cabinet's share. They should sacrifice for the interest of this country," he said.

Hariri is facing various hurdles in his attempt to form a 30-member national unity government comprising all the country's political parties, due to differences of opinion between rival politicians over the representation of the main Christian parties, as well as the Druze sect.

Hariri said that he is in contact with all political parties with regard to government formation.

"I have a notebook with all the demands of political parties and I want to form a government of national unity," he said.

Lebanon held the first general election in nine years on May 6, after being postponed for three times in 2013, 2014 and 2017. Despite the big loss of its seats in the parliament by his party, the Future Movement, Hariri is backed by most of the new parliament members to continue to serve as the prime minister.
File photo: Pilgrims circle the Kabaa at the Great Mosque, Islam's holiest shrine, in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. (AP Photo)

RIYADH, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabia government confirmed on Tuesday that Qataris are welcomed to perform Hajj, Saudi Press Agency reported.

Saudi's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah accused Qatar of blocking its websites for Qataris to register for this season.

To overcome the hinder, the ministry highlighted that Qataris are invited to come to the kingdom and complete their registration upon arrival at King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah.

The ministry added that the arrival of Qatari pilgrims will be through any airline except Qatar Airways, and that Qataris residing in the kingdom can register their requests to perform Hajj within the country through the link allocated by the ministry to the Qatari citizens.

Saudi Arabia has been leading other countries in severing ties with Qatar since mid of 2017 over accusations of its interferences in the internal affairs of other states and support of terrorism.

Qatar strongly dismissed the allegations.
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-08 05:51:02|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called on the freshly-elected president of Zimbabwe and his election opponent to show restraint and for any grievances to go through legal channels.

Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for the secretary-general, told reporters at a regular briefing that Guterres spoke by telephone on Tuesday with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Nelson Chamisa, president of the Movement for Democratic Change Alliance.

"In his two calls, the secretary-general made clear that he counted on the president of Zimbabwe to ensure that the security forces show maximum restraint," said Haq. "He also encouraged the opposition to pursue their electoral grievances through legal channels.

The secretary-general added that any legal decision taken by the court on the election results would need to be independent.

In his conversations, Guterres "stressed the United Nations' continued support for Zimbabwe in the post-electoral period and his hope that all Zimbabweans will move forward in unity," the spokesman said.

"If there is something that the parties want the United Nations to do of course we are willing to consider that but essentially he (Guterres) was making sure that all the various sides, all the participants in the election will abide by the results and channel any grievances through the electoral processes," Haq said.

While declining to characterize responses of the two leaders, the spokesman said, "I believe the calls were constructive and our hope is that the reassurances provided by the leaders will be borne out, also by their supporters."

Elections for president and members of parliament were held on July 30 and early results touched off violent protests by the opposition in which six people were killed when troops fired on demonstrators.

It was the first balloting for the posts since the downfall of President Robert Mugabe, who was in power for decades.

"We are aware that there are grievances but at the same time we want to make sure that all the grievances are expressed through the electoral process," the spokesman said. "We want political leaders and the population to exercise restraint and to reject any form of violence."
U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis (L) holds a welcoming ceremony for British Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson at the Pentagon August 7, 2018. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

WASHINGTON, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- British Defense Secretary Gavin Williamson said here on Tuesday that the current Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was the "best possible" and "achievable" deal to address the West's concerns on Iran, in sharp contrast with Trump's abhorrence of the deal.

Speaking at the Atlantic Council, Williamson said "the JCPOA was a deal that we felt was the best possible deal that was achievable."

"None of us has ever pretended it was a perfect deal, but actually it did deliver a number of important measures that I think everyone benefits from," he said.

"On the Iran deal, we really encourage the United States along with all nations to get around the table and start discussing about actually ... how we have something that can work," he noted. "We really just encourage the United States to start talking to its partners and Iran in order to be able to find a route forward."

Williamson's remarks forged a sharp contrast with U.S. President Donald Trump, who on Monday signed an executive order to re-impose sanctions on Iran that had been lifted under the JCPOA, and blasted the deal he had left in May as a "horrible, one-sided" one that had failed to protect U.S. national security.

In 2015, Iran and five permanent members of the UN Security Council- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States - plus Germany, signed the deal in Vienna. Under the accord, Iran agreed to limit its sensitive nuclear activities and allow international inspectors to examine in return for the lifting of crippling economic sanctions.

Trans-Atlantic division has escalated over the Trump administration's threat to impose the so-called secondary sanctions on companies that have business connections with Iran, many of which are from Europe.

Hours before Trump's announcement to re-sanction Iran, the European Union (EU), Britain, France and Germany said in a joint statement they would maintain economic ties with Tehran, and "are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran."

They also noted that "the European Union's updated Blocking Statute enters into force on Aug. 7 to protect EU companies doing legitimate business with Iran from the impact of U.S. extra-territorial sanctions."
Source: Xinhua| 2018-08-08 05:56:03|Editor: Mu Xuequan

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UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 7 (Xinhua) -- Following U.S. President Donald Trump withdrawing from a major nuclear pact and on Tuesday resuming Iran sanctions, a spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said bilateral relations are up to the governments involved.

"The secretary-general has, himself, repeatedly discussed the importance of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) as one of the key diplomatic achievements of recent years. He believes that it deserves continued support and that all of the parties to that agreement need to abide by its terms," spokesman Farhan Haq said.

"Regarding how the nations, the governments, deal with this issue, obviously, we don't speak to the national domestic policy of each country," the spokesman said.

Trump withdrew from the nuclear deal with Tehran and European countries and on Tuesday his orders to reinstate sanctions, suspended under the JCPOA, took effect.

Washington received widespread criticism for withdrawing from the European-Iran-U.S. accord which limited Tehran's nuclear capability.

Trump's action fulfilled a campaign promise to tear up the agreement which he took as one of the worst ever negotiated.

"There was an agreement (the JCPOA) put into place and the secretary-general's views on that agreement are well known," Haq said. "We will continue as far as we can to support implementation of the JCPOA which as you know also involves the activity of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)."
Hungarys ministry of innovation and technology signed a four-year partnership with German engineering giant Siemens to launch a pilot programme preparing a reform of the vocational training system and the introduction of dual education.

IT Minister Laszlo Palkovics said that the programme running between 2018 and 2022 will include the development of career orientation, the system of admission, training content, the student contracts and the vocational training exam system, as well as the training of teachers and instructors in areas related to state-of-the-art industrial processes.

The programme will cover 40 schools with 6,400 students and adults, 400 teachers and exam board members, he said. The experiences gained from the programme will be considered in reforming the current Hungarian regulations on vocational training, the minister said.

After signing the agreement on the 2 billion forint project, Siemens will apply for funding from the National Employment Fund, Palkovics added. Dale A. Martin, Siemens Hungarys Chairman-CEO, said industrial development requires a new type of knowledge and the company is proud to be a leader in dual training in Hungarys engineering sector.

He said they would train would-be colleagues and employees who will succeed in all fields.

MTI Photo: Mathe Zoltan
The number of Hungarian tourists visiting Croatia went up by more than 7% in January-July this year, compared with the same period of 2017, the head of the Croatian tourism agency in Budapest said.

The number of all foreign tourists visiting the country in the first seven months was 9.725 million, up 5.3% on the same period of last year, Marin Skenderovic told MTI.

They spent altogether 49.672 million guest nights in the neighbouring country, up also by 5.3%, he added. The number of Hungarian tourists however went up by 7.5% to 338,800 and the guest nights they spent in Croatia increased by 7% to 1.622 million, he said.

If this trend continues, the number of Hungarian tourists may easily pass a record 600,000, compared with 572,000 in 2018, Skenderovic said.
The legislation would make it easier for employers to bring in people from other countries for temporary agricultural work, offer legal status to undocumented farmworkers already living in the U.S., and require that employers use a system that confirms work eligibility.
By JEAN NORDINE

[email protected]

BESSEMER  In a 4-0 vote the Bessemer City Council passed Ordinance No. 367  Medical Marijuana as a Home Occupation ordinance at Mondays meeting.

This was the second reading of the ordinance which has been fine-tuned to address concerns about locations, compliance with the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act and the General Rules of the Michigan Department of Community Health, request of the city to inspect facilities, odor, and building safety.

Council members did not want to delay passing the ordinance, so that other future start- up operatio...
POLLING EQUIPMENT is set up Monday in Ironwood's Memorial Building and ready for voters in today's Michigan primary election.

By RICHARD JENKINS

[email protected]

Gogebic County voters are casting ballots in Michigan's August primary today, setting the stage for November's general election.

The ballot features a number of national, state and local races; as well as a variety of millage measures.

For the partisan section, voters must confine their votes to a single party. They can vote in the non-partisan and proposal sections regardless of party choice.

The Republican, Democratic and Libertarian parties all have at least two candidates on the ballot in the race for governor, with the winners of the conte...
This has been a long time in the making, but in our continuing pursuit to bring only the best of firearms, 2nd Amendment and defence related news to our readers, we are very excited to announce the next step in our evolution as a company.

As of 2020, Minuteman Review is now the proud owner and operator of Your Defence News, a website with a long history of breaking huge news stories and investigative journalism.

We hope you are equally as excited as us.

This means that now the teams of Minuteman can combine with the firepower of Your Defence News to stay at the absolute forefront for our readers.

Keep an eye. Big things are coming soon. We couldn't be more excited.

In the meanwhile, here are some of our most popular posts and categories to keep you busy.

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As a homeowner, you probably already know that you should be working to maintain your home. But, chances are, you Read More
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...
The Walt Disney Co. logo appears on a screen above the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Read more

Comcast Corp.'s $34 billion bid for Sky is putting pressure on 21st Century Fox to make a higher offer for the U.K. pay-TV provider. But Fox and its partner, Walt Disney, have a way to keep their options open while staying in the hunt for Sky a while longer.

Fox, which is selling its 39 percent Sky stake to Disney, has to officially make its 14-pound-a share ($18) offer to other investors in the U.K. company by Thursday. But it can submit the paperwork without topping Comcast's 14.75 pound-a-share ($19) bid, setting off a 46-day bidding period under U.K. law.

The companies are strongly considering the option, which would give Fox and Disney more time to consider whether to raise their bid, according to people familiar with the matter. The move would ultimately make the U.K.'s takeover panel the arbiter of a bidding war. If neither side folds after 46 days, the agency could announce an auction that requires final bids from the companies.

Fox and Disney could also decide not to formalize the offer by the deadline, allowing Comcast to proceed with the acquisition of Sky.

Investors are waiting for a peek into the strategy over the next two days, when both Disney and Fox report their quarterly earnings. Disney's results come after the bell on Tuesday, while Fox is delivering its numbers on Wednesday afternoon.

Fox shareholders approved a $71 billion deal with Disney last month, setting the stage for a huge swath of media assets to change hands, including 20th Century Fox, a stake in Hulu, and cable networks such as FX. Disney also would get Fox's current 39 percent stake in Sky  and a shot at acquiring the rest of that business.

Analysts have speculated that Burbank, Calif.-based Disney could agree to a deal with Comcast that might involve swapping portions of Hulu and Sky and potentially renegotiate distribution rights over Disney and Fox content with the British broadcaster.

As it formalizes its bid, Fox may need to switch the structure from a scheme of arrangement, which requires 75 percent approval, to an offer that requires only 50 percent.
Lawfirm Montgomery McCracken added a new team of IP and litigation attorneys. From left to right: Alfred Zaher, Louis A. Petroni, firm chairman, Shawn Li , Richard M. Simins, firm vice chairman, Maryellen Madden and John Powell. Read more

Montgomery McCracken Walker & Rhoads, the multistate law firm based in Center City, has added two LGBT trailblazers to its roster as it launches a new practice area and expands its diversity efforts.

Partner Alfred W. Zaher, 60, will chair the firm's new Intellectual Property department. A member of the board for the National LGBT Bar Association and the Gay and Lesbian Lawyers of Philadelphia, Zaher also will serve as Montgomery McCracken's chief diversity and inclusion officer. Zaher formerly was partner at Blank Rome where he claimed he was dismissed for hosting an LGBT event.

Maryellen Madden, 70, a pioneer in the transgender legal community, is joining the firm as Of Counsel to focus on complex litigation and commercial disputes. Her history includes a focus on securities, corporate governance, and real estate, among other disciplines. On Monday, Gov. Wolf named Madden to the newly-created Pennsylvania Commission on LGBTQ Affairs, the only commission of its kind in the nation.

Zaher and Madden are among four attorneys joining Montgomery McCracken from Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney.

Also joining the Philadelphia office is partner Shawn S. Li, 47, who will join Zaher in running the new IP practice which will focus on patent and trademark litigation. Zaher and Li have worked together for a decade. Fluent in Mandarin Chinese, Li has degrees in pharmacology and biology and extensive experience in biomolecular medicine. He advises clients on protecting intellectual property in China.

Both Zaher and Li have experience in the medical device, biotech, pharmaceutical, and software industries. Associate John J. Powell, 34, who is also a litigator, handles a variety of complicated commercial disputes, IP issues, and white-collar criminal defense.
Postwar ranch home (right) in Haddonfield's Fargo section near Grove Street is dwarfed by a much larger new house. Tear-downs across the neighborhood and elsewhere in the borough are seen by some as a sign of vitality. But others fear the community's cozy character could be lost. Read more

Grand new residences are replacing 1950s ranch houses on seemingly every street in Haddonfield's Fargo section, but that doesn't bother Jerry Macnamara.

"It's the times we live in," said the retired salesman, 77, who bought a three-bedroom Farwood Road rancher half a century ago and now has a 2-story new house next door.

Although Macnamara says he's "flabbergasted" by the prices such homes are commanding in his neighborhood and elsewhere in the borough, others describe the latest wave of Haddonfield teardowns and build-ups somewhat differently.

"Parts of town really are under assault," said longtime resident Brian Kelly, who runs the popular Haddonfield United page on Facebook. "I grew up here, and I wouldn't say it's being enhanced by teardowns and subdivisions."

Elizabeth "Betty" Creidler, a Haddonfield resident for most of her 91 years, said: "I've seen perfectly good houses torn down, and McMansions built in their place. I think it's ruining the character of the town and making it difficult for anyone other than wealthy people to live here."

The densely populated borough  11,500 people in less than three square miles  has little vacant land available. Property values are rising and property taxes are high, even by Camden County standards.

But a charming downtown, well-regarded public schools, and handy PATCO station continue to make Haddonfield aspirational for buyers and builders alike.

"Many people coming here don't want the old houses. They say renovating an old house takes too much work and that it's easier to tear it down and build a new one," said Mayor Neal Rochford, who grew up in Haddonfield and said some new homes have blended "seamlessly" with older ones.

One might say the borough has a problem other communities would love to have: a roaring residential real estate market where supply can't keep up with demand for open floor plans, expansive kitchens, lofty ceilings, and other design features many buyers, including young families, seek.

"It's a reflection of how people live today," said Salvatore Siciliano, a lawyer who lives in Haddonfield and represented residents opposed to a Warwick Road subdivision.

"It's a cyclical thing," he said. "Haddonfield is evolving. It's a testament to the community that people want to live here, and are willing to buy a rancher and invest their dollars" to build a replacement home.

Since 2014, borough records show, 57 single-family houses have been demolished. Typically, much larger and taller new homes have taken their place  and more of the allowable space on the lot.

"Homes characteristic of Haddonfield have been replaced by extremely large homes that kind of dwarf others in the neighborhood," longtime borough planning board member John Stokes said.

A Fargo resident, he's also a member of a planning board subcommittee that has been studying issues related to teardowns and subdivisions for at least two years. The board has adopted its recommendations and is prepared to formally present them to the borough commission, perhaps as early as Tuesday.

Modifying the maximum allowable height of single-family homes in certain zones, reducing the prominence of garages, and clarifying definitions of "elevated" basements and "half" stories are among the key recommendations.

The planning board also will ask the commission to consider whether subdivisions of large, single-home properties for multiple new dwellings should be limited, particularly on "gateway" streets such as Warwick Road and Kings Highway.

"Most people in town are pretty supportive of preserving the large lots" in key locations, said commissioner Jeff Kasko, noting that teardowns are difficult to prohibit outright.

"Our intention is to be respectful of homeowners' rights and to balance them with [requirements] to in some way eliminate McMansions," said planning board member Jon Simonson.

"I do think there's been overdevelopment," he said. "Teardowns are to be expected, and are going to continue to happen. So let's at least find ways to have some modicum of control, so we can have some impact on making new construction more compatible with existing neighborhoods."

Said Stokes: "It's not about [legislating] taste. It's about preserving character. Haddonfield has a distinctive character: Traditional, tree-lined neighborhoods with compatible streetscapes."

Perceptions of Haddonfield used to be such that discussion of preserving the borough's character would summon up images of bluebloods fussing over what constitutes an authentic Colonial-era shutter hinge.

Many in town vividly  and some, fondly  recall the fierce preservationist Joan Aiken (may she rest in peace), whose epic 1990s battle against a violet-hued Kings Highway house is the stuff of local legend. Deservedly so.

But as Siciliano and others pointed out, Haddonfield has changed in recent decades. Not only its past but also its present is worth preserving and protecting.

And what better way to do that than to ensure that the borough remains attractive to young families and others who want to be able to have their kids walk to school?

"I don't mind [the new houses] at all," said Elaine Zafiriadis, who moved to Longwood Road in the Fargo section 18 years ago.

"We were the youngest on the street when we got here," she said. "Now almost everybody is younger than us."

Macnamara, who remembers when Fargo was nothing but orchards with a spring in the center, said: "We moved here as a young couple, and there were a lot of older people.

"Now we're the old people. Younger people are moving in. And after them, someone else is going to come in, and they'll make changes, too."
Nick Moreno serves up his creation, the Rhuby Mule. "Dry July" is under way and bars are creating various mocktails for those going alcohol-free this month. At Fork, the Rhuby Mule, made with rhubarb syrup, ginger beer, mint, and lime. Read more

For some people, the height of summer means frosty beers, pink wine, or slushy neon margaritas. For others, July is a month to skip booze altogether. The "Dry July" movement encourages everyone to try a month off the sauce.

During periodic breaks from alcohol, which many health experts recommend, it's easy to stay at home to avoid temptation. Hibernation works for that other popular month for abstaining, "Dry January," but it's silly to miss out on summer fun, when happy hours and other festive get-togethers are frequent.

Luckily, you don't have to. Thanks to an increasing number of local restaurants and bars, you can go out, drink well, and win your Dry July. Some of Philly's best barkeeps are on the leading edge of a major trend as alcohol-free drinks are finally growing up, dropping the name "mocktail," and getting a place of honor on local craft cocktail menus.

ITV, bar and sister spot to chef Nicholas Elmi's Laurel restaurant on East Passyunk, features a "Spirit Free" section on the menu. For bar manager Jenee Craver, these drinks are no mere afterthought  they get the same consideration as any other menu item.

"Creating these drinks is a different kind of challenge: How to give it body without alcohol?" she said. ITV's Just Beet It drink is made with beet juice, lemon, ginger and just a touch of an unexpected ingredient: yogurt. This inclusion suggests a smoothie, but that's not how this cocktail drinks at all.

"We add just enough to give it some texture, soften the spicy ginger, and balance the sweetness of the beets with a pure sourness," Craver said. Poured over an oversized ice cube in a rocks glass, it looks like a standard craft cocktail and tastes rounded, complex, and refreshing.

Elmi's other bar, Royal Boucherie in Old City, also includes nonalcoholic cocktails on its menu. "We've created considered nonalcoholic cocktails that pair well with food," bar manager Dominic Carullo said.

Royal Boucherie's most popular "temperance cocktail" is the Easy East Side, a booze-free variation of the classic east side cocktail. It's bright with lime and fragrant with fresh cucumber and mint. Served in a coupe, the drink is indistinguishable from the rest of the round being served at a table.

Bartenders at Fork, also in Old City, have been creating alcohol-free cocktails upon request for years, but the restaurant introduced a "zero-proof" section to the drink menu at the beginning of 2018. "We want to make sure people know we're offering something for everyone," general manager Thaddeus Dynakowski said.

Fork approaches all its drinks the way it does the food: with a relentless focus on seasonality. The zero-proof cocktail list changes about every six weeks to highlight of-the-moment ingredients. Recently, the Rhuby Mule brought local rhubarb, ginger, and lime together for a quenching and balanced drink that's the right amount spicy and tart.

"Since we began listing these drinks on the menu, we've seen at least a 50 percent gain in sales," Dynakowski said. He thinks interested diners are more apt to order a listed menu item than make an off-menu request for something alcohol-free. "It makes guests more comfortable," he said.

BYOBs are an obvious choice for those who want to enjoy going out while taking alcohol out of the equation. Cadence, a new BYOB in Fishtown, offers a selection of nonalcoholic drinks  many tea-based  to complement its creative New American food menu.

The nitro Mokuren Matcha is the most spectacular and sophisticated nonalcoholic drink option in Philly right now. Japanese matcha is brewed at room temperature, then blended with a touch of oat milk before it's infused with nitrogen gas to create a frothy, fizzy, bright-green elixir that's served in a champagne flute or wine glass.

"It pairs well with some of our lighter food options, like the crab salad or monkfish dishes," said Cadence co-chef, and co-owner Samantha Kincaid. To complement her desserts, she likes Spirit Tea's Ruby 18, a tannic black tea with the aroma of caramelized honey.

"The nuances in tea are on par with wine, and it's equally complementary to food," Kincaid said. Tea also solves the most common problem of mocktails: cloying sweetness. Most diners eschewing alcohol welcome any booze-free options on the beverage menu, but sodas (even nice house-made sodas) are not the alternative that savvy diners really want.

Dry July comes and goes, but the nonalcoholic drinks trend is just picking up steam. Brooklyn is about to get an entirely alcohol-free bar with Listen Bar. Austin, Texas, has its own zero-proof popup bar, Sans Bar. Next year, two major publishers will release books on the subject of alcohol-free cocktails. This month's Tales of the Cocktail, the annual conference for the spirits industry, will offer spirit-free drinks mixed by celeb bartender Julia Momose during its opening party.

"Spirit-frees are here to stay," Carver said.
Vanilla beans, which have risen in price over the last several years. Read more

Michael Strange was unfazed when the price of vanilla doubled. But then it tripled and quadrupled. By springtime, Strange, president and owner of Bassetts Ice Cream, was facing a cost that had multiplied fivefold over just a year and a half.

"Vanilla has always been a volatile item price-wise, but this was crazy," he said.

Reluctantly, Strange raised the wholesale cost of his ice cream by about 5 cents per serving. It was the first time in memory he had considered the cost of vanilla in setting the prices, he said.

"It works out to pennies per serving, but when you're talking about dozens of servings, pennies become dollars," he said.

Strange's dilemma, shared by bakers and ice cream purveyors in Philadelphia and around the world, stems from a global shortage of vanilla that has been building since 2017, when a series of cyclones damaged some of Madagascar's precious vanilla bean crops.

Compounding the problem is a growing demand for organic vanilla by large companies such as Nestle that have recently begun shifting toward using more natural ingredients and fewer chemicals in some products.

Though vanilla prices have fluctuated in years past, the cost of one kilogram was well below $100 as recently as five years ago, according to industry reports. In 2017, it soared to a record high of $600 per kilogram, according to a Financial Times report.

Vanilla acts as a flavor enhancer for sweet foods and desserts and is used in most baked goods, as well as many ice cream flavors. Much of it comes from Madagascar, but vanilla beans also grow in Tahiti and Mexico. It takes at least three years to grow a vanilla bean and months to harvest the pods, meaning any dramatic increase in supply may be more than a year away.

Several local business owners confirmed they too have felt the impact of the shortage. Zoe Lukas, owner of Whipped Bakeshop in Fishtown, said a gallon of pure vanilla now costs her $250 to $300.

"We used to be able to buy that amount at closer to $60 a gallon a few years ago," Lukas said. She said that she had also raised prices over the last year, but that vanilla wasn't a leading factor.

Strange hoped the supply might start increasing by the end of next year. In the meantime, some companies may start looking to vanilla alternatives.

Though Strange dreaded the response to setting higher prices, he said the company's bottom line has been unaffected thus far.

"I hold my breath every time we send out a price increase," he said. "But I always hope people don't mind paying a bit more for ice cream. Because even now, it's still a relatively inexpensive product."
President Donald Trump shakes hands with Charlie Kirk during a Generation Next White House forum in March. Read more

Videos showing demonstrators who surrounded two conservative figures at a Philadelphia restaurant have made been making the rounds across the internet and on cable news.

Do the names Candace Owens, Charlie Kirk and Turning Point USA mean anything to you? If not, that's OK. Here's an explainer on the figures involved in the events popping up across your newsfeed.

Who are Charlie Kirk and Candace Owens?

Charlie Kirk and Candace Owens are leaders of Turning Point USA, a conservative nonprofit whose mission is "to build the most organized, active, and powerful conservative grassroots activist network on college campuses across the country," according to its website.

Founded in 2012, Turning Point USA is represented on more than 1,000 college campuses and high schools across the country.

Kirk is the organization's founder and executive director. He's been described as "Trump's man on campus" and "Kid Trump" in media profiles of him.

Owens is the group's spokeswoman and director of communications. Both have earned praise from President Trump.

"Candace Owens of Turning Point USA is having a big impact on politics in our Country," the president tweeted in May. "She represents an ever expanding group of very smart 'thinkers,' and it is wonderful to watch and hear the dialogue going onso good for our Country!"

What happened in Philly?

The two sat at a window seat at the Green Eggs Cafe location at 13th and Locust Streets on Monday morning and were met by a group of protesters and police, according to video they posted on Twitter and the Washington Post.

"The protesters were screaming 'White Supremacist' and something about immigrants." Malik Joe, a manager at the restaurant, told the newspaper, adding that the protesters threw food and objects.

Owens and Kirk took to Twitter to share videos of the event, which garnered hundreds of thousands of views online.

The videos contain profane language.

The specifics behind the skirmish remain unclear: The identities of the protesters are not known and there's no indication the demonstration was due to Owens' race.

Philadelphia police did not disclose the number of police or activists involved but confirmed no arrests were made.

While it's not clear who exactly took part in the demonstration, the Twitter account @PhillyANTIFA shared a Huffington Post article about the organization titled "Turning Point USA Keeps Accidentally Hiring Racists."

"For folks who are unfamiliar with them, check out this background material of exactly what these Turning Point bigots are all about," @PhillyANTIFA wrote.

What happened after the altercation?

Kirk and Owens appeared on Fox News' Hannity and Fox & Friends to elaborate on Monday's events.

"We don't want to play the victim card here," Kirk said on Hannity. "That's what the left does all the time."

"This is Maxine Waters' America," Owens added.

What does Maxine Waters have to do with all of this?

Following national controversy over the Trump administration's responses to family separation at the border, Rep. Maxine Waters (D., Calif.) encouraged people to confront members of Trump's cabinet if seen in public.

"Let's make sure we show up wherever we have to show up," Waters said in June, according to CNN. "And if you see anybody from that Cabinet in a restaurant, in a department store, at a gasoline station, you get out and you create a crowd. And you push back on them. And you tell them they're not welcome anymore, anywhere. We've got to get the children connected to their parents."

Owens and Kirk are not members of Trump's cabinet.

Was the protest even real?

Political commentator Chris Hahn appeared on Fox News and questioned the legitimacy of the events, the news site Mediate reported.

"I was very dubious on this protest," he said. "I don't know how these people found Charlie Kirk and Ms. Owens  Candace Owens in Philadelphia," Hahn said. "I'm suspicious of this, whether or not this is real or not. I'm not saying I know for sure, I don't. But it's kind of weird to me."

Kirk and Owens rejected that claim, according to the Washington Post.

"The accusation we staged a protest against ourselves is hard to even address seriously," Kirk said.

Why were they in Philadelphia?

Fox & Friends host Steve Doocy prefaced Tuesday's interview by saying the two were meeting in Philadelphia, where he said Owens lives, for a business meeting.

"We kind of progressed through breakfast, having fun, you know, just going through Turning Point USA-related business items and we look out the window about 30 minutes later and a mob starts to form," Kirk said.
President Donald Trump, right, stands beside 12th Congressional District Republican candidate Troy Balderson, during a rally, Saturday, Aug. 4, 2018, in Lewis Center, Ohio. Read more

Voters in four states  Kansas, Michigan, Missouri and Washington  will head to the polls Tuesday to determine party nominees ahead of November's midterms. There's also a special election in Ohio to fill the vacancy left by the withdrawal of Republican incumbent Rep. Pat Tiberi.

Here are three key things to watch in Tuesday's elections (follow along here for live results):

 Democrats think Danny O'Connor has a decent shot at turning a reliably Republican congressional seat in Ohio blue. President Trump rushed to the district Saturday night in an attempt to rally supporters behind Republican candidate Troy Balderson.

 If Trump-endorsed gubernatorial candidate Kris Kobach wins the Republican primary in Kansas over incumbent Jeff Colyer, it could help Democrats steal control of the statehouse in November.

 Incumbent Sen. Claire McCaskill (D., Mo.) is seen as vulnerable in a state Trump won by 18 percentage points in 2016. There are 11 Republicans facing off Tuesday for the chance to face her this fall.

Ohio (special election)

Polls close at 7:30 p.m. Eastern time.

The most important race of the evening is a special election taking place in Ohio, where Democrats hope to steal a congressional seat Republicans have safely held for more than 20 years.

Democratic hopeful Danny O'Connor is in a dead heat with his Republican opponent, Troy Balderson, in Ohio's 12th Congressional District. In the wake of stunning defeats in both Pennsylvania and Alabama, another Republican loss in a safe district would be yet another sign that a Democratic blue wave is about to come crashing down on Washington in November.

Trump isn't taking any chances. On Saturday night, he rushed to the district he won by 11 percentage points in 2016 for a political rally in Lewis Center, where he called Balderson "really smart" and a "really hard worker." Though last week, instead of backing Balderson, Trump mistakingly tweeted his endorsement of Rep. Steve Stivers, an unopposed Republican who isn't on the ballot Tuesday night (the president later deleted that tweet).

Kansas

Polls close at 8 p.m. Eastern time for most of the state., 9 p.m. Eastern time for the westernmost counties.

Trump shook up what should've been an easy primary win for incumbent Republican Gov. Jeff Colyer with his endorsement of far-right challenger Kris Kobach. If Kobach wins the nomination, it could offer Democrats the rare chance to win a statewide race in deeply conservative Kansas. State Sen. Laura Kelly is the front-runner to win the Democratic nomination against former state Rep. Josh Svaty and former Wichita mayor Carl Brewer.

A Kobach victory in Tuesday's Republican primary could also seriously impact the races for two congressional seats Democrats hope to flip in November.

In the Second Congressional District, Democrat Paul Davis faces the winner of a seven-man Republican primary that insiders reportedly fear won't yield a candidate popular enough to win in November. Davis, the former minority leader in the Kansas House, nearly defeated former Gov. Sam Brownback in 2014.

In the Third Congressional District, which Democrats held as recently as 2011, Republican Kevin Yoder will face off against the winner of a crowded Democratic field featuring six candidates. The frontrunners are 2016 nominee Jay Sidie, progressive attorney Brent Welder and Sharice Davids, who would become the first Native American woman to serve in the U.S. House if elected.

Michigan

Polls close at 8 p.m. Eastern time for most of the state, 9 p.m. Eastern time for four counties in the northern peninsula.

In the Wolverine State, Democrats are eying an opportunity to flip another statehouse, as unpopular incumbent Republican Gov. Rick Snyder is retiring.

For the Democrats, former minority leader Gretchen Whitmer holds a lead in polls over opponents Shri Thanedar and Abdul El-Sayed. The winner will likely face off against Attorney General Bill Schuette, who is trying to secure the Republican nomination over Lt. Gov. Brian Calley.

Democrats also see an opportunity to flip two Congressional districts that are considered toss-ups.

In the Eighth Congressional District, Democrats are pinning their hopes on former CIA officer Elissa Slotkin, who served on the National Security Council under presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. If Slotkin secures the nomination, she'll face off against incumbent Republican Rep. Mike Bishop in a district Trump won by less than 7 points in 2016.

Another toss-up is the 11th Congressional District, which is a free-for-fall with a total of 10 candidates thanks to the retirement of Republican Rep. David Trott. On the Republican side, the frontrunners are former Rep. Kerry Bentivolio, state Sen. Mike Kowall and state Rep. Klint Kesto. For the Democrats, there's Sunell Gupta, the brother of CNN host Sanjay Gupta, former Obama official Haley Stevens and Fayrouz Saad, who has the endorsement of progressive Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, an upset Democratic primary winner for Congress in New York.

Democrats are also voting to fill a vacancy in the reliably blue 13th Congressional District, where incumbent Rep. John Conyers Jr. was forced to resign over sexual harassment allegations. Six Democrats are vying for the seat, a group that includes Conyers' great-nephew, state Sen. Ian Conyers; Detroit City Council President Brenda Jones and former state Rep. Rashida Tlaib.

Missouri

Polls close at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

Among the most interesting races in November will be Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill's attempt to defend her seat in a state Trump won by more than 18 percentage points. Baring a huge upset Tuesday night in the state's Republican primary, she'll face state attorney general Josh Hawley.

The Second Congressional District is also expected to be somewhat competitive in the fall, with the winner of the Democratic primary between attorney Cort Vanostran and Army veteran Mark Osmack facing off against three-term Republican incumbent Rep. Ann Wagner.

But the most interesting election on the ballot in Missouri Tuesday night is Proposition A, a measure that would allow non-union members to opt out of paying union dues even if they benefit from collective bargaining. The result could have national implications on labor unions in the wake of an important Supreme Court ruling from June.

>> READ MORE: How the Supreme Court ruling on labor unions in Janus vs. AFSCME could upend politics in Pennsylvania

Washington

Polls close at 11 p.m. Eastern time.

Democratic incumbent Sen. Maria Cantwell, seeking her fourth term, will be the overwhelming favorite in November against the winner of a Republican scrum featuring a whopping 28 challengers. Former state Republican chair Susan Hutchinson is considered the frontrunner.

As far as congressional seats are concerned, Democrats have a good chance to flip at least two Republican-controlled districts come November.

In the Fifth Congressional District, Republican incumbent Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers is expected to defeat two challengers from her right  both outspoken Trump supporters. The winner will face a competitive race against Democratic nominee Lisa Brown, the former chancellor of Washington State University Spokane.

Democrats have a shot to flip the Eighth Congressional District, which is being vacated by retiring incumbent Republican Rep. Dave Reichert. Democrats have been locked in a competitive primary fight for the right to face presumptive Republican Dino Rossi. The Democratic frontrunners are all first-time candidates: pediatrician Kim Schrier, doctor Shannon Hader and attorney Jason Rittereiser.
As an advocate, scholar, and, well, a human, I've been following recent stories on breast-feeding  national coverage of the U.S. delegation's appalling failure to support the World Health Assembly breast-feeding resolution and, more recently, news about the criticism of breast-feeding at a Mora, Minn., kiddie pool. While the two issues may appear to be only tangentially related, in fact they stem from the same cultural resistance that inhibits the achievement of national breast-feeding objectives and individual breast-feeding goals.

>>READ MORE: Trump administration making uninformed, dangerous choices on breast-feeding | Opinion

When people at a pool, restaurant, retail store, or other public place order nursing mothers to "cover up" or relocate, yes, they are breaking the law protecting the right to breastfeed. Even more tragically, though, these people are conveying cultural disapproval of a natural act designed to give babies the optimal chance at survival and good health. Media coverage of these incidents, which occur far too often, amplifies its stigmatization, suggesting to other nursing women that they, too, will be publicly ridiculed should they dare feed their hungry children. It is not enough to have legal protection. We also need to embrace and support our nursing mothers.

If you're not an expectant parent or nursing mother, you might be dismissive of these issues. Here's the deal: Breast-feeding is not akin to other individual choices. Our ability as a society to support breast-feeding women affects our overall national health, influencing rates of infection, of chronic illness, of days missed from school and work. Moreover, the extent to which we globally help mothers to succeed at nursing affects the nutrition and mortality of children, particularly in lower-income countries (which have been especially targeted by infant-formula companies).

>>READ MORE: Why breastfeeding is best, despite that Trump administration uproar

In the midst of the early July coverage of the resolution, President Trump erroneously tweeted: "The U.S. strongly supports breast-feeding, but we don't believe women should be denied access to formula. Many women need this option because of malnutrition and poverty." This lukewarm "endorsement" is problematic for reasons more than its inaccuracies. At the same time, it underscores public sentiment about breast-feeding that prompted the pool and other public breast-feeding conflicts.

We didn't used to be squeamish about breast-feeding, nor should we pretend that formula companies need help with promotion. It was the formula companies that spearheaded the shift in public perception. From the first ads for milk substitutes (formula) in the 1860s, these companies have used deceptive practices to successfully persuade women that their "inadequate" milk should be replaced with artificial food. Advertisements, not doctors, prompted the initial breast-feeding decline in early 20th-century America, correlating with spikes in mortality among young children. Concerns about this negative influence prompted the American Medical Association's Committee on Foods to restrict formula companies from direct-to-consumer marketing.

While the U.S. was clamping down on formula marketing, Nestle and other manufacturers began expanding into developing countries and other regions, with devastating results. You know what happens when formula companies have unrestricted access to vulnerable people? Bottle-fed babies die at alarming rates, while children who survive are severely malnourished. Breast-feeding protects babies and toddlers, providing them with adequate nutrition even in places with contaminated water and food scarcity. And in rare circumstances in which a mother cannot breast-feed, other women can fill in to nurse her baby. A lactating community is a healthy community, full of resources and good nutrition.

>>READ MORE: Pediatrician shares the danger of promoting formula in poorer nations

It is important to relay all news about breast-feeding issues. And yet, we need to have balance with stories of success and triumphs over adversity. For example, the mothers leading the Mora pool nurse-in should be celebrated for protesting injustice and for offering their support. We also need to go beyond individual experiences to examine how communities and institutions can help breast-feeding mothers feel protected. In other words, identify the "bright spots" (to use a term from authors Chip and Dan Heath for enacting change). Philadelphia International Airport, for example, offers free, clean, quiet spaces for nursing mothers.

It's time to give attention to places that are getting it right, modeling how nursing mothers and their children should be treated. Breast-feeding is not just about the mother-baby dyad. It is a public-health issue and must be addressed as such.

Katherine Foss is the author of "Breastfeeding and Media: Exploring Conflicting Discourses That Threaten Public Health" and is an associate professor in the School of Journalism and Strategic Media at Middle Tennessee State University.
Lawyer Michael Coard, a 1982 graduate of Cheyney University, believes the school is on the upswing after years of financial turmoil. Read more

In Greek mythology, the phoenix rises from the despair of destruction to the ecstasy of excellence.

Although that is an apt reference to the great news announced on July 31 concerning Cheyney University, an even better and even more culturally applicable reference is "And Still I Rise," Maya Angelou's 1978 poem about rising above the obstacles white society places upon its black members. In it, she proclaims:

"You may write me down in history

With your bitter, twisted lies

You may trod me in the very dirt

But still, like dust, I'll rise."

Cheyney  the oldest black institution of higher learning in America, founded in 1837 rises, thanks to Gov. Tom Wolf, state Rep. and Pa. Legislative Black Caucus Chairman Jordan Harris, state Sen. and Cheyney University Council of Trustees Member Vincent Hughes, Cheyney University President Aaron Walton, Cheyney University Council of Trustees Chairman Robert Bogle, and others.

>> READ MORE: Cheyney University to partner with Thomas Jefferson, Starbucks in a comeback bid

They all came together last week to announce the creation of the school's on-campus Institute for the Contemporary African-American Experience (ICAAE), which is a cultural solutions-oriented think tank that will involve a collaboration with Thomas Jefferson University's Medical College, Epcot Crenshaw Corp., and Starbucks Foundation to promote the academic, employment, and community service interests of Cheyney students. That's wonderful news, most notably regarding Starbucks, assuming it doesn't call the cops on black students for "loitering" in classrooms. But I digress.

Cheyney, an all-time great institution, during the past several years has had to confront an all-time low student enrollment along with an all-time high budget deficit. Although it continues to do so, the future looks bright thanks to the recent news. But why was the recent past so dismal? Was it the result of self-inflicted wounds or something external?

>> READ MORE: Can Cheyney, the nation's oldest HBCU, survive?

It was clearly something external. Here's the proof:

1901: While Cheyney was a stand-alone teacher training school, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania paid the full yearly tuition and stipend of $140 to white students to attend white state-owned teacher training schools but paid only $25 to Cheyney students.

1969 : The commonwealth was identified by the U.S. Department of Education as one of the 10 worst states (including the usual suspects, namely Mississippi, Georgia, North Carolina, et al.) for discriminating against blacks in higher education.

1983: The commonwealth for the first time ever finally submitted a formal anti-racial discrimination plan that was deemed acceptable by the U.S. Department of Education following repeated warranted rejections. It was later discovered that plan wasn't worth the paper it was written on.

1999: At the insistence of the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights, the commonwealth signed a contract to resolve issues of racial discrimination against Cheyney. State officials signed that contract which, by this year, should've resulted in at least $100 million to Cheyney for essential resources, including attractive academic courses, quality administrators, new buildings, etc. However, 19 years later, most of that $100 million is still owed to Cheyney.

But the past is the past. The aforementioned elected officials and corporate leaders deserve tremendous accolades for doing the right thing. That right thing  first and foremost  must be to maintain Cheyney's historic mission of educating black students.

That right thing is unlikely to have ever been done if not for the raucous but focused activism and federal court litigation of the coalition Heeding Cheyney's Call and members of the extended Cheyney family. Now, everyone from the governor to Cheyney's incoming class deserves praise because they all helped  and are helping  Cheyney to rise again.

As Angelou concluded in her poem:

"Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave

I am the dream and the hope of the slave

I rise. I rise. I rise."

That great poet could've easily been referring to Cheyney University.

Michael Coard, a Philadelphia lawyer, graduated from Cheyney in 1982.
By Dhamali Mukhaye.

The Democratic Party has attacked the opposition Forum for Democratic Change for not consulting other opposition political parties before changing the leaders of opposition in Parliament.

The DP secretary General Gerald Siranda says that the Former president Mugisha Muntu used to consult other political parties before changing leadership which the current president Patrick Amuriat didnt do.

He says that much as the FDC has the majority MPs in Parliament, the leaders of oppositions they are presenting in Parliament are going to represent all the opposition in the country.

He says that is FDC doesnt want to associate with other opposition, president Museveni is the one who will benefit if they are hitting each other.

Related Stories

FDC asks opposition leaders dropped in reshuffle to prepare hand over reports
By Ritah Kemigisa.

Makerere University has suspended until further notice three students for allegedly threatening to disrupt activities at the university over tuition increment.

In three letters dated August 6th, the vice chancellor Prof Barnabas Nawangye accuses the three students; Daniel Kituno, Samuel Kigula and Jobs Dhabona for circulating provocative messages on social media calling for defiance over the university activities.

Nawangye also faults the trio for holding an illegal demonstration during which they disrupted the Guild representative council meeting causing danger to the lives of the participants and destroying university property.

He has meanwhile directed the university chief security officer to commence criminal proceedings against the trio and ensure they immediately vacate the university premises.
By Steven Ariong.

The United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) has suspended all funding to Abim district following its failure to account for shs 2 billion.

The funds were meant for health, Education and other related community activities.

According to a source from the fund, they are not pleased with the level of corruption ongoing in the district.

Abims resident district Commissioner Ashaka Mpimbaza has confirming the suspension describing it as a big blow adding that it a shame to see the funds have not been accounted for.

According to Mpimbaza, the fund has been sending shs 300M to the district every month.

Efforts to reach The UNICEFs zonal officer in Moroto Rebecca Kwagala have since been futile.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan commented the detention of three Kazakhstan citizens in the USA in cases involving fraud relating to the sale of rare cars.





On July 24, the prosecutor of the south district of New York state brought 25 charges to 25 persons among whom there are citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan. They are charged of massive fraud. The damage amount is 4.5 million dollars. In case they are found guilty, they will be sentenced for 20-30 years in prison. Precise charges will be known during the first trial, that is held in the near future," said official representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Aibek Smadiyarov on the sidelines of the Government.





According to the speaker, those detained are citizens of Kazakhstan, they were born in 1994, 1991 and 1970, and from Taraz. Two of them are arrested, one was released under the guarantee of her place of residence relating to her health state.





They added in the Foreign Affairs Ministry that the Consulate General of Kazakhstan in New York provided all necessary legal and consular assistance to ensure the protection of the rights and legal interests of the detained citizens of Kazakhstan.





We note that earlier the Russian media had a report with a reference to the Ministry of Justice of the USA on that three Kazakhstan citizens and other 22 people were charged of massive fraud involving the auto dealership.





According to the data of the US police, the criminal ring included 7 Russians, as well as five citizens of Georgia, four citizens of Azerbaijan, three Kazakhstan citizens, two from Latvia, and two Ukrainians; as well as the citizens of the USA and Turkey. 11 people were detained in this case on Tuesday in New York, other several people were detained in Florida and Michigan.





Eight people are wanted, including six Russians. The charge implies that the accused ones placed false advertisments about the sale of cars, then after taking a deposit they hide. With this aim, they created a number of shell companies. The damage to consumers is about 4.5 million dollars. Each of the detainees relating the case is charged of conspiracy with the aim of fraud - they could be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison.








Raipur: An officer of the CRPF's elite CoBRA unit was injured on Tuesday when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) laid by Naxals exploded in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district, police said.

The incident took place near Timilguda village, around 500 km from here, when a team of the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) was out on an area domination operation, Sukma Superintendent of Police Abhishek Meena told PTI.

When the patrolling team was on the way back to its camp, Assistant Commandant K Ijung inadvertently stepped on the pressure IED connection, triggering the blast, he said.

The assistant commandant, belonging to CoBRA's 201st battalion, received splinter injuries in his abdomen, he said.

Reinforcement was rushed to the spot and the injured officer was shifted to a field hospital of the paramilitary force in Chintalnar, Meena said.

Efforts were on to airlift the injured officer to Raipur, but the bad weather and continuous rainfall in the area were hampering the evacuation operation, another police official said.

The CoBRA is a specialised unit of the Central Reserve Police Force and is proficient in guerrilla tactics and jungle warfare. It is ranked among one most experienced and successful law enforcement units in the country.

Yesterday, 15 Maoists were gunned down in an encounter with security forces in a dense forest in Sukma, police earlier said.
President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev had a telephone conversation with his Kyrgyz colleague Soornbay Jeenbekov, Akorda reports.





The interlocutors confer by telephone on perspectives of bilateral cooperation and shared views on key issues of the regional agenda.





Besides, the leaders considered the upcoming meetings schedule. It should be noted the conversation was initiated by the Kyrgyz President.





In addition, development of bilateral cooperation, as well as cooperation between Kazakhstan and Armenia within the framework of the EEU and CSTO were discussed during the telephone conversation with Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan initiated by the Armenian side.








New Delhi: The Delhi Commission for Women has set up an expert committee to conduct a detailed social audit of all shelter homes in the capital after sexual abuse cases at such homes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh came to light.

The DCW said the committee, comprising academicians, lawyers, mental health experts and social workers, would be required to submit its report in three months.

It will be mandated to inspect and assess the condition of government and private-run shelter homes for women and girls.

The move has come after minor girls were rescued from alleged sexual abuse at two shelter homes in Bihar's Muzaffarpur and in Uttar Pradesh's Deoria. The two cases have put the safety and security of girls, women and children at shelter homes at the centre of the public discourse.

"Muzaffarpur and Deoria incidents have shocked the entire nation. It is the need of the hour to comprehensively audit the functioning of each and every shelter home in the country," DCW chairperson Swati Maliwal said.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "a detailed and thorough investigation of all homes should be done".

A detailed and thorough investigation of all homes should be done. https://t.co/18iYIuP3xB  Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) August 6, 2018

The committee will give detailed observations on the facilities provided, the security measures and the rehabilitation programme being followed by shelter homes in Delhi. It will ensure surprise inspections of these homes, the DCW said in a statement.

The members of the expert committee will be required to have detailed interviews with the girls and women at these homes to ascertain the problems existing there.

"The commission on its own has conducted several inspections in government-run shelter homes in Delhi. The commission has also inspected several private-run homes on receipt of complaints. This committee shall undertake comprehensive social audits," Maliwal said.

In the Muzaffarpur case, the owner of the NGO which runs the shelter home for destitute girls has been arrested. Nine other people have also been arrested after the matter broke into the local media in May.

On July 26, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry into the matter. He said the government was "ashamed" by the incident.

Thirty-four of the 42 minor girls at the shelter home were sexually abused, their medical examination has confirmed.

The Deoria case came to light after a 10-year-old girl managed to flee from her shelter home and informed authorities about the plight of the inmates, who were reportedly sexually abused by the couple running the home.

Following that, police raided the facility and rescued 24 girls.

The Uttar Pradesh government has removed the district magistrate and ordered a high-level probe into the matter.
New Delhi: Two women were arrested near the Moolchand Metro Station here for allegedly robbing men on the pretext of seeking help or by alluring them, police said on Monday. The accused identified as Sweety (24) and Muskan (25) used to allure people and rob them of their cash and belongings.

On August 4, around 9:30 pm, when the police were patrolling near the metro station, they noticed a person chasing two women.

The police immediately jumped into action and after a brief chase, they managed to intercept them, said Chinmoy Biswal, Deputy Commissioner of Police (southeast).

The victim told police that the two women had slapped him and robbed him of his purse. Subsequently, both the accused women were arrested and the victim's purse was recovered from their possession, Biswal said.

During investigation, the complainant told police that while he was going home on his motorcycle, at around 9:30 pm when he reached near the metro station, he was signalled by two women who were shouting Help! Help!.

When he stopped his bike, one of the women named Muskan slapped him. He fell down from the motorcycle and in the meantime Sweety took out his purse and both ran away towards Ring Road, Lajpat Nagar, the DCP said.

During interrogation, the accused women revealed that they were illiterate.

Muskan told police that she is a widow while Sweety said she was living separately from her husband and that her divorce proceedings were pending, the DCP said.

In order to earn their livelihood, they both started robbing men during the night hours. They would sometimes lure men or seek their help. When the victim offered to help, her associate would come from behind and together they would rob men, he said.

The accused women confessed to police that at times, they used to threaten men that if they tried to report the matter to police, then they will file false complaint against him, the officer said.

The accused told police that in the past two-three months, they have robbed around five-six men and in apprehension of social stigma, victims might have not reported the matter to the police, he said.

In another incident, a 67-year-old woman was arrested for allegedly stealing Rs 75,000 in Chanakyapuri, the police said.

A bridal exhibition was underway at a five-star hotel there and the woman stole Rs 75,000 from an exhibitor's purse, they added.

The woman left from there and started counting money. She was spotted by a hotel security guard who was also informed about an exhibitor raising an alarm about the theft.

The police were informed and she was arrested.
NEW DELHI: A Class 4 student of a reputed school in Delhi's Vivek Vihar locality, who was allegedly sexually abused by three senior students, was told by his teacher that he was ''so cute that anyone will tease him'' when he complained that he was being sexually abused by his seniors.

It was reported on Tuesday that the Class 4 student was allegedly sexually abused by three senior students for three consecutive days in the school bus.

The matter came to light when the boy narrated the whole story to his parents.

The boy had already complained to the teacher-in-charge of the bus about the same, but no action was taken against the three senior students.

Traumatised by the events, the boy refused to go to school and apparently locked himself inside the doors when his parents insisted.

He even attempted to end his life, his parents alleged.

It was only then that the parents of the boy came to know about his alleged sexual molestation by the three senior students.

After getting to know what had happened to their child, the parents immediately brought the matter to the attention of the school authorities. The parents alleged that they did not get a strong response from the school authorities and finally decided to take the matter to the police.

In their complaint, they alleged that their child was sexually abused and even hit by the three senior students. The parents said that their child was completely traumatised by the events and was very scared.

On the basis of their complaint, the police registered a case against the three accused students under the POSCO Act. The parents of the boy have also demanded action against the school teacher.

The school management has now rusticated the three accused students and issued a show-cause notice to the teacher-in-charge of the bus. Of the three accused, one is a student of Class 10 and the other two accused study in Class 8 and Class 7.

It has been reported that the Delhi Commission of Women has also sent a notice to the school and sought a detailed report in connection with the incident.

Several incidents of sexual abuse and molestation in schools have been reported in the recent past and the parents have been urged to explain the concept of 'good touch, bad touch' to their children.

Psychologists and NGOs working with children have said that such incidents are often not reported due to fear of possible social stigma.

However, such incidents can take a massive toll, especially on impressionable minds of minors, if not tackled seriously.
NEW DELHI: Taking a grim view of the security situation of women in the country, the Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the authorities to pay heed to the rising number of cases of sexual assault taking place. "As per the NCRB data, a girl is raped every six hours in the country, there have been over 38,000 rapes in the country. Madhya Pradesh tops the list while Uttar Pradesh comes second. What is happening in the country," the SC said.

Hearing the case of alleged rapes in Muzaffarpur shelter home, the SC also pulled up the Bihar government asking that how did the state allow "the horror homes to flourish." The court said that the Bihar government has been funding the NGO which runs the shelter home since 2004 but it how did it not have any idea about what is happening there. "Did you never think of doing any investigation there," the SC asked.

The court also asked Bihar government over what has it done to punish the guilty in the case. The government defended itself saying that their officers visited the shelter home but no one gave them any information about such a case then. However, the court yet again held the government responsible stating that if the officials would have reached out to the children and spoken to them, they would have got to know about such incidents happening there. "The inspections were treated only as a formality and were never taken seriously, the court said.

The SC had earlier on August 2 issued notices to the Bihar government and the Centre in connection with the case. The court had taken suo motu cognisance of the case and sought an explanation from the Bihar government and the Women and Child Development (WCD) Ministry asking how no action was taken to stop minor girls from being raped in shelters home.

Over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the centre run by Brajesh Thakur, the chief of the state-funded NGO. The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls was first highlighted in an audit report submitted by the Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS), Mumbai, to the state's social welfare department in April. An FIR was lodged against 11 people, including Thakur on May 31.

Sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in their medical examination, while two others who were unwell were yet to undergo medical tests. Women staff members of the shelter home and Thakur were among those who were arrested by the local police in connection with the case.
New Delhi: Despite a massive furore over the second and final draft of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, Haryana could soon follow suit and have its own NRC. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has said that while it is a call for the Centre to make, he would oblige if directions in the regard are given.

News agency ANI quoted Khattar as saying that Haryana would act towards having its own NRC if the Centre decided upon it. "A decision regarding this will be taken at central level. After that, we will act as and when the states are directed," he said.

Khattar also said that such a registration ought to be done at the national level as well.

A decision regarding this will be taken at central level. After that we'll act, as & when the states are directed. A registration of such kind should also be done at the national level: Haryana CM when asked if a registration will be done in the state regarding illegal immigrants pic.twitter.com/lEucpgBRfZ  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

The BJP and many rival parties have clashed over the NRC issue in Assam with Trinamool Congress' Mamata Banerjee even predicting civil war and bloodbath. While she has already warned against NRC in West Bengal, there are some states in the north-eastern part of the country that have already begun checking on the influx of immigrants.

(Also read: A traitor and an anarchist - how BJP hit back at Mamata)

The issue at hand is that names of 40.07 lakh applicants in Assam did not find a place in the final draft of NRC. While BJP has assured that they have a two-month window to appeal, the Supreme Court too has said that no coercive measures would be taken against those not on the list. To counter the charges laid by several opposition parties, BJP president Amit Shah has said that the uproar is all about vote-bank politics and that nothing can supercede the interests of Indian citizens and the security of the country.
New Delhi: The Delhi government on Tuesday announced the proposal to increase MLA Local Area Development (LAD) fund from Rs 4 crore to 10 crore annually.

On the second day of the Monsoon Session, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said, "The Cabinet has decided to increase the MLA LAD fund from the existing Rs 4 crore to Rs 10 crore in a year. It is a big example of decentralisation of funds and functioning. The Delhi government is the first government to work together with MLAs from different parties for the development work of the constituency."

The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Informing the Delhi Assembly about the Cabinet's decision, Sisodia said it was a demand of every legislator to increase the MLA LAD fund.

"The utilisation of MLA LAD funds is at the discretion of legislators and can be used for any purpose or local project," Sisodia said.

Asked about problems faced by legislators in spending funds, Sisodia said the Cabinet has also given power to the Urban Development minister to make minor changes in guidelines meant for the MLA LAD fund.

In Delhi, an MLA currently gets Rs 4 crore in a year to execute various works in his or her constituency. Urban Development Minister Satyendar Jain said the Cabinet's decision will be implemented by this year.

Sisodia said the Cabinet has also approved another proposal to set up a foreign language academy in the national capital, apart from several Indian language academies like Telugu, Kashmiri, Malayalam, Gujarati, among others.

(with PTI inputs)
Deoria: The police on Tuesday found an inmate from the Deoria shelter home, from where 24 girls were rescued and 18 appeared missing on Sunday night, at an old age home run by the same NGO in Gorakhpur. "A 21-year-old woman has been recovered from the old age home in Rani Diha area of Gorakhpur. As per the entry in the register, she was brought here on August 5," additional district magistrate Prabhu Nath said. He said this was illegal as the place was a shelter meant for the elderly.

"She is in a state of shock and her statement will be taken after a medico-legal examination," he said. One of the girls rescued from the Deoria shelter home on Sunday had said that girls from there were taken to Gorakhpur, where one of them was sent inside a room with two men.

The old age home in Gorakhpur was being run by the Ma Vindhyavasini NGO for the last 30 years, its clerk Ankit Mishra said. When the NGO's affiliation with state administration was cancelled in June 2017, the organisation secured a stay from the high court, he said, arguing that the home continued to be legal.

Ma Vindhyavasini NGO's manager Girija Devi's widowed daughter Kanaklata, her four-year-old granddaughter and Ankit Mishra also live in the old age home.

District magistrate Vijyendra Pandiyan and SSP Shalabh Mathur inspected the home after getting information about the woman. Meanwhile, the superintendent of the Deoria shelter home Kanchanlata Tripathi, who was on the run, was arrested in Deoria, SP Rohan P Kanay said.

Police had earlier sealed the Deoria shelter home and the rescued girls are being temporarily kept at a government-run shelter. Investigating officer Vijay Singh Gaur said they will be shifted to shelters in Gorakhpur, Ballia and Varanasi. So far, officials are keeping the medical reports of the girls confidential.

Girija Tripathi and her husband Mohan Tripathi were sent to judicial custody on Monday. On Sunday, police rescued 24 girls from the Deoria shelter after a 10-year-old escaped from there and went to the police. The Deoria case has surfaced amid the outrage over the alleged sexual abuse at a shelter for girls at Muzaffarpur in Bihar.

The UP Police began investigating the possibility of sexual abuse in the Deoria case after the escaped girl told them that some girls used to be taken away in cars from the shelter, and brought back the next day. Kanchanlata Tripathi denied that 18 girls are missing from the Deoria shelter.

She has told police that there were only 24 girls at the shelter home. Police have video recorded the statements of the rescued girls. Their statements will also be recorded before a magistrate, an official said.

A child protection scheme counsellor and a 181 women's helpline counsellor, Sandhaya Singh and Malamani Tripathi, have talked with the rescued girls, Superintendent of Rajkiya Bal Grih, Yashodanand Tiwari said.
DMK spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai, who also argued on behalf of the party at Madras High Court bench for burial of M Karunanidhi at Marina beach, blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for the denial of permission by Tamil Nadus AIADMK government.

Taking to microblogging site Twitter, Saravanan attacked the BJP saying the party had been exposed. He tweeted, Looks like it is the design of RSS to deny our great leader @kalaignar89 a place in Marina. The BJP stands exposed now, it is the BJP and its leaders who are opposing #Marina4Kalaignar.

His tweet came shortly after the Madras High Court bench, comprising acting Chief Justice CJ Ramesh and Justice SS Sundaram, heard DMKs plea against denial of permission by the AIADMK government to bury Kalaignars mortal remains near Anna memorial.

The development had triggered violent protests by DMK cadres outside Chennais Kauvery Hospital, where the five-time Tamil Nadu chief minister breathed his last at 6.10 pm on Tuesday.

DMKs demand to get a burial site near Anna memorial was also backed by leaders of opposition parties, including West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Congress president Rahul Gandhi. Left leader Sitaram Yechury and D Raja also backed DMKs demand.

DMK working president M K Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina.

Stalin had also met the chief minister hours before his father's death.

A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications."

Hence, the government is prepared to allot a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.
Calcutta High Court witnessed high drama on Tuesday when former IPS officer Bharati Ghoshs husband MAV Raju was arrested on charges of being involved in an ongoing extortion case. Raju is accused in the case along with his wife and five other police personnel. He had moved the court for an anticipatory bail which was rejected.

Bharati Ghosh, the prime accused in the case, is absconding. The case pertains to extortion to convert demonetised currency worth Rs 40 crore into jewellery.

Nishad Parvez, DIG, West Bengal CID, said, Anticipatory bail case of MAV Raju, husband of Bharti Ghosh, in Daspur Police Station case number 27/18 has been rejected by the honourable High Court. Raju is being questioned by CID sleuths at their Bhabani Bhavan headquarters in Kolkata and will be presented in Midnapur Court on Wednesday. There was no immediate response from the defence counsel.

MAV Raju, accompanied by his lawyers appeared at the Kolkata High Court at 1 pm on Tuesday before Justice Sanjeev Banerjee. Rejecting Rajus anticipatory bail, Justice Banerjee observed that police had ample reasons to arrest him Raju was arrested from outside the court premises.

The case came to light after a resident of Midnapur, Chandan Maji, on February 1, 2018, lodged a back-dated complaint alleging that some police officers had taken 375 grams of gold without paying him. Interestingly, this complaint was lodged a few weeks after Bharati Ghoshs removal.

Subsequently, an investigation was ordered by the district court which resulted in West Bengal Criminal Investigation Department (CID) making a few arrests. The CID claimed that they found Rs 2.4 crore in cash and gold during the raids at premises in Kolkata and other location in the state allegedly owned by Ghosh, her husband and other police officers. The CID also claimed to have recovered some property papers in MAV Rajus name and liquor worth Rs 35 lakh.



She has been denying all the charges made by the state CID. "The CID is trying to malign me under the instructions of the state government. Ghosh claims her wealth was inherited from her father and it was not ill-gotten.

The CID had booked nine people in the case under sections 384 (punishment for extortion), 385 (putting person in fear of injury in order to commit extortion), 389 (putting person in fear of accusation of offence, in order to commit extortion), 119 (public servant concealing design to commit offence which it is his duty to prevent), 467 (forgery of valuable security, will, etc), 468 (forgery for the purpose of cheating), 471 (using as genuine a forged document) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of Indian Penal Code, and Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. Four police personnel who were arrested are now out on bail.

Ghosh was removed as West Midnapore SP in December 2017 following the allegations and was transferred to a less important post as commandant of the state armed police, pending investigation. She was once considered to be a close confidante of West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee.

Ghosh had once famously described Mamata in a public meeting as the mother of Jangalmahal (the former Maoist-dominated districts of Midnapore, Bankura and Purulia) for ushering in peace in the area. She reportedly fell out with Mamata Banerjee after Mukul Roy, once Mamatas deputy in Trinamool Congress, quit the party. As Roy joined the BJP, the Trinamool saw Ghosh helping him build his clout in the Jangalmahal area using state apparatus, and she was transferred from West Midnapore district.

(with inputs from Srabanti Saha)
Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Tuesday rejected gangster Abu Salem's plea seeking 45 days parole to get married. Salem is a convict in the 1993 serial blast case.

The latest rejection is not the first for Salem. He had previously moved a TADA court and sent a parole application to the Navi Mumbai Commissioner of Police stating that he wanted to get married. Both were turned down. This despite him submitting citations of two high courts claiming convicts were given such relief for entering into wedlock.

It is believed that Salem may have secretly married a woman. A 2015 report in a local tabloid has said that he got married to her 'over phone' during a train journey when he was being taken to Lucknow for a court hearing under police escort.

Abu Salem alias Abdul Saleem Ansari was one of the prime accused in the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts. He was found guilty of transporting the weapons from Gujarat to Mumbai.

He was involved in a series of 12 blasts that rocked Mumbai on March 12, 1993, killing 257 people and injuring 713 others.
The Turkic Council member states, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkey, develop the Modern Silk Road tour package.





The joint project is purposed to let tourists from around the world to visit one those countries or all countries at once.





Turkey has already presented the Modern Silk Road website to feature some places of interests of four nations, in particular, Sheki Caravanserai of Azerbaijan, Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi of Kazakhstan, Tash Rabat of Kyrgyzstan, Grand Bazaar of Turkey.





Kazakhstan's Kazakh TV Channel, broadcasting in 118 countries of four continents, has offered its services to promote this tour package.





The Turkic Council is expected also to revise the details of the proposed tour packages of great interest for tourists.





Azerbaijan and Turkey may develop joint projects. But Azerbaijan -Turkey - Kazakhstan or Kyrgyzstan is a very complicated program. Such a tour package will not be probably sold. It is key to understand what to do. For example, a Caspian Sea Cruise bridging Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan may have great prospects. It is crucial to invite other countries to take part in the said project, for example, Turkmenistan, Iran and Russia," Kazakh Tourism Deputy CEO Timur Duissengaliyev said.





The first tour under the Modern Silk Road project is expected to start at the close of August- early September to run through Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. During the travel the tourists will be offered to visit the Third World Nomad Games.








The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government at the Centre to apprise it on steps proposed to prevent sexual abuse of minors in shelter homes across the country. Referring to the Muzaffarpur rape case, the Supreme Court also pulled up Bihar government for funding the NGO running the shelter home where girls were allegedly raped and sexually abused.

Cautioning the media against revealing the identity of minor victims, the top court asked print, electronic and those on social media to not publish or display photos of victims of sexual abuse in any case.

The court further said that minor victims of sexual abuse should not be interviewed as it would have serious mental impact. It, however, added that National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and SCPCR can interview them in the presence of counsellors.

The court expressed anguish over rising incidents of rape across the country, saying women were being raped left, right and centre. Referring to the data released by National Crime Records Bureau, it pointed that a woman was raped every six hours in India.

Meanwhile, the amicus curiae in the case told the court that no compensation had been paid to the alleged victims of Muzaffarpur shelter home.

Hearing the case of alleged rapes in Muzaffarpur shelter home, the top court also pulled up the Bihar government asking that how did the state allow "the horror homes to flourish". The court raised questions on how the government had no idea about the happenings despite funding the NGO since 2004. "Did you never think of doing any investigation there," the Supreme Court asked.

The court also asked Bihar government over what has it done to punish the guilty in the case. The government defended itself saying that their officers visited the shelter home but no one gave them any information about such a case then.
M Karunanidhi, DMK patriarch and five-time former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, died at 94 on Tuesday after battling for life at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai. Admitted to the hospital on July 18, the Tamil Nadu strongman, popularly known as Kalaignar, breathed his last at 6.10 pm on August 7, according to a press release by Kauvery Hospital.

Confirming that the political stalwart was no more, Kauvery Hospital released a statement: With deep anguish, we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 PM. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond. We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family member and fellow Tamilians worldwide.

Karunanidhis health began deteriorating significantly since Monday and in his last medical bulletin released on Tuesday evening, the hospital said that the leader extremely critical and unstable. It said that despite maximum medical support, his vital organ functions continued to deteriorate.

As the news of his deteriorating health emerged, a large number of DMK supporters started gathering outside Kauvery Hospital. Photographs and videos of disturbed supporters outside the hospital depicted the popularity and the political might of the Tamil Nadu stalwart.

Before the confirmation of his demise, Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP) had sent a fax to police offices across the state. It directed all police officials across Tamil Nadu to immediately report to duty in uniform.

Karunanidhi was the first political leader to have been the chief of a party for five decades. The five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu was first elected chief of DMK on July 27, 1969. He was 45 at that time and headed a political party that had previously been launched without a president, as the post had been left vacant for Periyar EV Ramasamy.

During his political career, Karunanidhi suffered several defeats in elections to nemesis MG Ramachandran and while he had had stints as Tamil Nadu CM, it was not until a strong sweep in 1996 that the DMK leader established a solid footing in the state. While he lost the next elections - in 2001 - to AIADMK, allowing Jayalalaithaa to take the realms of Tamil Nadu, DMK and Karunanidhi were back in power in 2006.

Known for his interest in arts, poetry and Tamil culture, Karunanidhi has had his share of sworn supporters and staunch critics over the last many years. For DMK though, he has been a pillar - withstanding the ups and downs of Indian politics with resolve.
Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday grieved the death of DMK patriarch and five-time former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, M Karunanidhi and extended his condolences to the family. Rahul said that the Kalaigner is loved by the entire Tamilian fraternity. He also said that Karunanidhi strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for a period of more than six decades.

The Congress chief also extended his condolences to the citizens of India who are grieved at the demise of Karunanidhi. Taking to Twitter, Rahul said, "Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight."

Karunanidhi died at 94 on Tuesday after battling for life at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai. He was admitted to the hospital on July 18 and breathed his last at 6.10 pm on August 7, according to a press release by Kauvery Hospital.

Confirming that the political stalwart was no more, Kauvery Hospital released a statement: With deep anguish, we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 PM. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond. We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family member and fellow Tamilians worldwide.

Karunanidhis health began deteriorating significantly since Monday and in his last medical bulletin released on Tuesday evening, the hospital said that the leader extremely critical and unstable. It said that despite maximum medical support, his vital organ functions continued to deteriorate.
Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Tuesday expressed his condolences over the death of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi. "It is saddening to know about the demise of M Karunanidhi. The DMK chief was someone who had contributed to the fields of politics, cinema and literature," said he said.

Leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi and actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth have expressed grief following the demise of the DMK veteran.

A violence erupted over the denial of burial site for Karunanidhi at Marina beach, with DMK workers protesting outside Kauvery hospital in Chennai. Denying land for Karunanidhi memorial at Marina beach, Tamil Nadu government offered to allot two acres of land at the memorial park opposite to Anna University.

DMK patriarch and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi died on Tuesday at 94, with the doctors at Kauvery Hospital declaring him dead at 6.10 pm.

Karunanidhi's health declined late on Monday following which he was kept under observation of doctors at the Kauvery hospital. With reports of the DMK veteran's deteriorating health conditions, a large number of DMK supporters and well-wishers gathered outside Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence in Chennai.

Karunanidhi, who turned 94 last month, was admitted to hospital in Chennai on July 18. The hospital had said he had undergone a procedure to replace his tracheostomy tube. He had the tube placed in December 2016 to help improve his breathing. Karunanidhi had been discharged after the procedure on July 23.
With the health condition of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi deteriorating, Tamil Nadu Director General of Police has asked police machinery across the state to remain on alert. The DGP has sent a fax to all senior police officials across the state.

In the fax, the Tamil Nadu DGP has asked all police officials to their respective offices immediately in uniform.

DMK working president and Karunanidhis son MK Stalin and his family members have also reportedly met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Palaniswami.

Meanwhile, the latest medical bulletin released by the hospital has said that Karunanidhi is "extremely critical and unstable". It reads: "There has been significant decline in the clinical condition of Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi over the last few hours. Despite maximum medical support, his vital organ functions continue to deteriorate. His condition is extremely critical."

Chennais Kauvery Hospital, where Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment, had on Monday said that the there had been decline in the medical condition of the DMK patriarch, and that he was kept under close watch for the next 24 hours.

As the report of his deteriorating health condition emerged, several DMK supporters started gathering outside the Chennai hospital, offering prayers for the well-being of Karunanidhi.

The hospital had on Monday said that maintaining his vital organ functions was a challenge. There has been a decline in the medical condition of Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi, DMK President and former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Maintaining his vital organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age-related ailments, read the bulletin.

His is on continuous monitoring and being treated with active medical support. His response to the medical interventions over the next 24 hours will determine the prognosis, it further read.

Kauvery Hospital, where the veteran Tamil Nadu politician is currently admitted, had last week said that the 94-year-old needs to be kept for an extended period 'due to age-related overall decline in his health.'

Karunanidhi was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital after his blood pressure dropped. His health deteriorated later, leading to well-wishers and party cadres flocking to the hospital.

Over the days since he has been hospitalised, at least 21 dedicated workers of the party lost their lives after they were unable to bear the "shock" of his illness.
Chennai: Amid a row over the denial of burial site for Karunanidhi at Marina beach, violence erupted on Tuesday with DMK workers protesting outside Kauvery hospital in Chennai. Denying land for Karunanidhi memorial at Marina beach, Tamil Nadu government offered to allot two acres of land at the memorial park opposite to Anna University.

Following this, the party cadres approached the Madras High Court, seeking an emergency hearing. The High Court's acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G Ramesh has called for a hearing at 10:30 pm.

DMK patriarch and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi died on Tuesday at 94, with the doctors at Kauvery Hospital declaring him dead at 6.10 pm.

The DMK claimed that they had earlier met the Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami and submitted a request for a 'Samadhi' near Anna memorial. The party's request was then accepted, a senior DMK leader added.

"We had met CM and submitted a request for a 'Samadhi' near Anna memorial, he had accepted our request then, but has not communicated anything in this regard till now," said senior DMK leader Durai Murugan.

However, reports suggest that the ruling AIADMK government has cited legal hurdles for refusing Anna memorial as the burial ground for the DMK patriarch.

Tamil Nadu government should not play politics. On such occasions, government and parties should be above politics. Kalaignar should be given his due. He deserves rightful place even after his demise," said Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad.

Also known as Anna Samadhi, Anna memorial is a memorial structure built on Chennai's Marina beach. Tamil Nadu's former chief minister and Karunanidhi's mentor CN Annadurai was cremated at Anna memorial in 1969.

Karunanidhi's health declined late on Monday following which he was kept under observation of doctors at the Kauvery hospital. With reports of the DMK veteran's deteriorating health conditions, a large number of DMK supporters and well-wishers gathered outside Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence in Chennai.

Karunanidhi, who turned 94 last month, was admitted to hospital in Chennai on July 18. The hospital had said he had undergone a procedure to replace his tracheostomy tube. He had the tube placed in December 2016 to help improve his breathing. Karunanidhi had been discharged after the procedure on July 23.
The Tamil Nadu government has declared a public holiday on Wednesday to mourn the demise of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi, who died on Tuesday evening at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai. The state government has also declared official seven-day mourning.

All schools across Tamil Nadu have also declared holiday on Wednesday to mourn the demise of the Kalaignar of Indian polity.

Meanwhile, as part of security measures to avoid any untoward incident, neighbouring Karnataka had decided to suspend Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus services to Tamil Nadu.

Several movie theatres across Tamil Nadu also declared that they had cancelled shows on Tuesday evening.

Kauvery Hospital confirmed that the DMK patriarch had passed shortly after 6.30 pm on Tuesday. The hospital released a statement which read, With deep anguish, we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 PM. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond. We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family member and fellow Tamilians worldwide.

Politicians from across party lines, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, paid tributes to the political stalwart, who became Tamil Nadu Chief Minister five times. Prime Minister Modi termed him as a "deep-rooted mass leader" and a "stalwart", saying that his life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised.

Prime Minister Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, among others, are expected to attend Karunanidhi's last rites in Chennai.
Chennai: Amid DMK president M Karunanidhi's critical health condition, his son MK Stalin on Tuesday met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami in Chennai. The meeting took place at Palaniswami's residence.

Karunanidhi's health declined late on Monday and he continues to be under observation of doctors at the Kauvery hospital.

Meanwhile, a large number of DMK supporters and well-wishers have gathered outside Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence in Chennai.

"Ezhundhu Vaa Thalaivaa" (Awake, our leader) and "Vaa, Vaa, Gopalapuram Polaam Vaa" (Come, Come, let`s go to Gopalapuram) were among the slogans raised by the emotionally-charged crowd, referring to the locality where the former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has a house.

The DMK veteran's daughter Kanimozhi and other family members are trying to pacify the crowd and briefing them about their beloved leader's health condition.

The doctors of Chennai's Kauvery hospital had on Monday confirmed a sharp decline in the health of M Karunanidhi. Karunanidhis vital organ functions remained a challenge, the hospital said in the latest bulletin released late on Monday.

Karunanidhi, who turned 94 last month, was admitted to hospital in Chennai on July 18. The hospital had said he had undergone a procedure to replace his tracheostomy tube. He had the tube placed in December 2016 to help improve his breathing. Karunanidhi had been discharged after the procedure on July 23.

(With inputs from agencies)
The indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A fighters with enhanced capabilities including Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles, Self-Protection Jammer (SPJ) and Air-to-Air Refuelling (AAR) will soon join the Indian Air Force (IAF). The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) had in late 2017 cleared the acquisition of 83 LCA Tejas Mk1A aircraft for which quotation has been already been submitted by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The 83 Tejas Mk1A will coast the IAF almost Rs 50,000 crore and help the force in shoring up the depleting number of fighter squadrons. The government had in March 2017 sanctioned Rs 1381.04 crore to ensure that 16 Tejas fighters are produced every year from the current eight aircraft.

IAF and HAL had on March 31, 2006, entered into a contract for procurement of 20 Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) standard Tejas which was to be completed by December 2011. The 20 Final Operational Clearance (FOC) Tejas were to be delivered to the IAF by 2016.

The naval version of the Tejas is also getting ready for aircraft carrier operations with the jet undergoing tests to prove the arrestor hook system at Shore Based Test Facility (SBTF), Goa. The Spokesperson of the Indian Navy posted a short video of the LCA Navy undergoing taxi-in with an arrestor hook on its Twitter handle.

More tests to check landing and refuelling of the aircraft on a carrier have been planned for the next few months. The pilot commandeering the Tejas Navy fighter to test the arrestor hook was Captain Shivnath Dahiya. The entire test was witnessed by HAL Chief Managing Director T Suvarna Raju, Landing Signal Officer Commodore JA Maolankar and Test Director Group Captain A Kabadwal (Retd).

According to a HAL press release its design wing, Aircraft Research and Design Centre, has designed and developed the arrestor hook system for ship deck operations of LCA's Naval version. The aircraft had been operating at INS Hansa Goa since July 28 after verification of the in-air operation of the system earlier in July, the release said. The detailed carrier compatibility trials (CCT) of naval aircraft are slated to be carried out at SBTF, Goa soon.
M Karunanidhi is dead. The characteristic rasping voice that has been one of the icons of Tamil Nadu's politics for over 60 years will speak no more.

Karunanidhi was arguably the senior most politician in India's history, both in terms of age and by the total number of years he had spent as an elected official. The 94-year-old recently completed 51 years as an MLA. He had also spent two years as a member of the now-abolished Tamil Nadu Legislative Council.

He was elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly for the first time in 1957. That was only the second time that elections were being held in India after Independence. That was also the first of the 13 times he contested for an Assembly seat. He never lost an election.

Karunanidhi was also one of the most sworn-in Chief Ministers in India's history. He took oath as Tamil Nadu CM a whopping five times. West Bengals Jyoti Basu and Sikkim's Pawan Kumar Champing are tied with Karunanidhi. As of now, only Bihar's Nitish Kumar and Karunanidhi's arch-rival J Jayalalithaa have taken oath more number of times, at six each.

Karunanidhi never contested for a Lok Sabha seat, and never aspired for a role in New Delhi. He said as much in the tumultuous years of the late-1990s. A reporter asked him if he had Prime Ministerial ambitions since his ally at the time, GK Moopanar, was being talked about as a PM hopeful. Karunanidhis response was a classic, in his markedly indirect style. I am fully aware of how tall I am, he said.

Not a very tall man by physique, Karunanidhi was a veritable colossus of India's democratic polity.

He also recently began his 50th year as the president of the DMK. His leadership of the party was remarkable for the accessibility he maintained with both members of the public and journalists.

A master orator who bent the words and syntax of an ancient language to his will, Karunanidhi habitually sent the crowd into raptures each time he began a speech at a rally. After acknowledging everyone who shared the stage with him, he would end his prologue with,  and you, the Tamil people, who matter more than my life.

Karunanidhi was a political master in the literal sense. For much of his career, he was unable to defeat his friend-turned-foe MG Ramachandran, or MGR. He then found himself comprehensively unable to defeat MGR's successor, J Jayalalithaa, without stitching a massive alliance. The one time he was unable to pull many parties together, in the 2016 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, he lost.

Remarkably flexible in his politics, Karunanidhi has allied with the Leftists and Congress with the same ease with which he shook hands with the BJP or the Indian Union Muslim League.

Karunanidhi is among the last of a generation of politicians who came up through the anti-caste, anti-Hindi Dravidian Movement who received direct mentorship from giants like 'Periyar' EV Ramaswamy and CN Annadurai.

He rose to public prominence as the script writer for plays and movies that helped the Dravidian Movement spread its ideas and ideologies among a large base of lower-case and under-educated population who had only recently been enfranchised with the vote. Its for this that he was referred to by the title 'Kalaignar', or artist.

His death now widens the chasm of a political vacuum in Tamil Nadu. The state has now lost its two biggest political presences in quick succession.

His son, MK Stalin, will now try to step in his fathers shoes. But whether the son's brand of politics can rise to the artistry of the fathers craft will play out through Tamil Nadu's years of interregnum that lie ahead.
From being the first elected chief of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party to becoming the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu five times, Muthuvel Karunanidhi had held the fort of leadership for several decades in the southern state. Recognised from his dark glasses and yellow shawl, he was the first in the country to lead a political party for half a century.

Karunanidhi who breathed his last at the age of 94 on Tuesday at Chennai's Kauvery hospital in Tamil Nadu was a figure recognised and revered throughout the country. Karunanidhi was hospitalised after he was diagnosed with an infection in the urinary tract and had a fever.

Born in Tamil Nadu's Nagapattinam district on June 3 1924, his original name was Dakshinamurthy. He had a Telugu ancestry. Karunanidhi was more interested in poetry, drama, and literature during his school days.



His introduction to politics took place at the age of 14 and was reportedly inspired by anti-Hindi agitations. He went to take politics even more seriously with each passing year and became a key member of the Dravidian movement.



However, the path to the political arena for him wasn't an easy one. He suffered several defeats in elections to nemesis MG Ramachandran and while he had stints as Tamil Nadu CM, it was not until a strong sweep in 1996 that the DMK leader established a solid footing in the state.



While he lost the next elections - in 2001 - to AIADMK, allowing Jayalalithaa to take the realms of Tamil Nadu, DMK and Karunanidhi were back in power in 2006. He became chief minister for the first time in 1969. On May 13, 2006, he became the chief minister for the fifth time.



Untill his death, the prominent figure in south Indian politics represented the constituency of Tiruvarur in the Tamil Nadu state Legislative Assembly. He was elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly 13 times (from 1957 to 2016 elections).



Karunanidhi was known for his contributions to Tamil literature. His contributions cover a vast area, from poems, letters, screenplays, novels, biographies and historical novels to stage-plays, dialogues and movie songs. Apart from literature, Karunanidhi has also contributed to the Tamil language through art and architecture.



The books written by Karunanidhi's include Sanga Thamizh, Thirukkural Urai, Ponnar Sankar, Romapuri Pandian, Thenpandi Singam, Vellikizhamai, Nenjukku Needhi, Iniyavai Irubathu and Kuraloviam. His books of prose and poetry number more than 100. He is also known for his writing works in the Tamil film industry.



He delivered an address on the inaugural day of 3rd World Tamil Conference held in Paris in 1970, and also on the inaugural day of 6th World Tamil Conference held in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) in 1987.



Coming back to his presence in the political scenario, for DMK he was a pillar, withstanding the ups and downs of Indian politics with resolve. He was given the title of "Kalaignar".
Mumbai/Yavatmal: A teacher at a residential school for tribal children was today arrested in Yavatmal district of Maharashtra for allegedly sexually harassing three girl students. The minors had lodged a complaint against Vijay Jadhav (31) on August 4, said senior inspector Anil Patil of Babhulgaon police station.

Studying in classes 8th and 9th at the 'Ashram' (residential) school in Babhulgaon, the girls alleged that Jadhav often touched them inappropriately on the pretext of administering corporal punishment. The school is run by a private trust and receives government aid.

The girls had first approached the school superintendent who took them to the police station and lodged a case against Jadhav, said Patil. An FIR under IPC section 354-A (sexual harassment) and under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was registered against the teacher, he added.

A separate case under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act was also filed against Jadhav who was sent to judicial custody today by a local court.

Further probe is on, the police officer said.
Politicos across the country reacted in shock and grief as news of demise of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi came in on Tuesday evening. From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Congress president Rahul Gandhi and former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav, leaders from across political lines conveyed their tribute to the Kalaignar of Indian polity.

Heres a look at the tributes that poured in from political leaders across the country:

Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised. pic.twitter.com/jOZ3BOIZMj  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadus voice was effectively heard. pic.twitter.com/l7ypa1HJNC  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

I have had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi Ji on several occasions. His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered. pic.twitter.com/cbMiMPRy7l  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/7ZZQi9VEkm  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

Extremely saddened to hear about the demise of DMK Chief M. Karunanidhi ji. The nation has lost a great leader on this day. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.  N Chandrababu Naidu (@ncbn) August 7, 2018

Pained to learn about the sad demise of Dr. M. Karunanidhi. His passing away is an irreparable loss to country and to the state of Tamil Nadu and marks end of an era. I convey my heartfelt condolences to members of his bereaved family and his supporters across the country.  Sumitra Mahajan (@S_MahajanLS) August 7, 2018

Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight.#Karunanidhi  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 7, 2018

Deeply saddened by the demise of former Tamil Nadu CM and one of the senior most political leaders of the country Karunanidhi Ji. My heartfelt condolences are with his family members and lakhs of supporters.  Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi (@naqvimukhtar) August 7, 2018

I am grieved by the passing away of Shri M. Karunanidhi, one of the leading and longstanding politicians of our country who left a mark of his own during his long public life of about 80 years including 56 years as Member of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. #Karunanithi pic.twitter.com/a8rZsW9fDz  VicePresidentOfIndia (@VPSecretariat) August 7, 2018

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed heartfelt grief over the demise of former Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK leader M Karunanidhi. CM offered condolences to the bereaved family and to the people of Tamil Nadu. pic.twitter.com/TrnwcXoXCI  CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 7, 2018

A legend in his lifetime, counted amongst the giants of the political landscape of India #Kalaignar #Karunanidhi ji has left a void not just in his home state of Tamil Nadu but in the entire country that will never be filled. My condolences to his family & Tamils the world over.  Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) August 7, 2018

Our heartfelt condolences to the family and supporters of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. His passing is a great loss to the nation. May his soul rest in peace.  Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) August 7, 2018

Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers #PresidentKovind  President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 7, 2018

The news of Karunanidhis demise came in shortly after 6.30 on Tuesday as the Kauvery Hospital in Chennai released a statement. The statement read, With deep anguish, we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 PM. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond. We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family member and fellow Tamilians worldwide.

Karunanidhi was the first political leader to have been the chief of a party for five decades. The five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu was first elected chief of DMK on July 27, 1969. He was 45 at that time and headed a political party that had previously been launched without a president, as the post had been left vacant for Periyar EV Ramasamy.

Known for his interest in arts, poetry and Tamil culture, Karunanidhi has had his share of sworn supporters and staunch critics over the last many years. For DMK though, he has been a pillar - withstanding the ups and downs of Indian politics with resolve.
DMKs demand of getting a burial site at Marina beach for party patriarch M Karunanidhis mortal remains is getting support from several corners. Congress president Rahul Gandhi and superstar Rajinikanth, who is soon to launch a political party, have backed the partys demand for burial site beside Anna memorial.

The Congress chief urged the AIADMK government in the state to be magnanimous in this time of grief. Pointing that Karunanidhi was an expression of the voice of Tamil people, just like AIADMK stalwart J Jayalalithaa, Rahul Gandhi said that the state government must give the voice a space on Marina beach.

Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief, wrote the Congress chief on microblogging site Twitter.

Rajinikanth also asked the AIADMK government in Tamil Nadu to take all measures to ensure that the last rites were performed near Anna Memorial at Marina beach. He said that it would be the highest respect that the Tamilians can pay to the DMK stalwart.

He said, Tamil Nadu Government must take all measures, for last rites of Karunanidhi to be performed near Anna memorial. This would be the highest respect we would be paying to him. This is my humble request.

After the demise of Karunanidhi at Chennais Kauvery Hospital at 6.10 pm today, DMK working president MK Stalin made a request to the state government to provide space near Anna Memorial for burial. However, the government denied the same citing legal constraints, triggering protests by DMK cadres.

Shortly after, the DMK moved the Madras High Court over the same. Taking cognisance of the issue, the Madras High Court decided to hear the case at night.
NEW DELHI: Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday slammed the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for their ideology of letting only men and not women run the country. "The ideology of BJP and RSS is that only men will run this country. Women never take the center stage there. The Congress has always welcomed women, unlike the RSS which has shut doors for women in the country forever," Rahul Gandhi said while speaking at the Mahila Adhikar Sammelan in Delhi.

Stating that there was no place for women in the country to join the RSS, Rahul said: "In RSS, a woman is not allowed to go. She could not go before, cannot go now and would not go forever."

Talking about women empowerment, Rahul underlined that the Congress was aiming to reserve representations to 50 per cent in all spheres. He urged all women in the country to come forward and contribute to the development of the nation.

He also slammed the Centre saying that they make promises but the Women's Reservation Bill is long pending. "Congress told them clearly that the entire party will stand by them the day they decide to pass it. But the PM doesn't say anything. They said 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao'. I fail to understand whose daughter do they want to save. The daughters need to be saved from these BJP MLAs," he said.

He lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for remaining tightlipped on crimes against women and children in the country. "The Prime Minister speaks on everything, but does not utter a word when crimes are committed against women in Uttar Pradesh and other Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ruled states. No action is taken against the accused if he is a member of their party," he said.

Continuing his tirade against Prime Minister Modi, Rahul asserted that the former never said anything on the alarming rise of rape incidents. "The PM doesn`t utter a word on the incidents of rape. What happened against women in these four years is something, which didn't happen even in last 70 years," the Congress President said.

Rahul also blasted out at the Prime Minister's remark on MNREGA scheme, saying that millions of women in the country were benefitted from the programme. "Millions of women benefitted from MNREGA. But Prime Minister Modi mocks this scheme in Parliament and claims no one benefited from it," he said.
NEW DELHI: BJP has demanded an apology from the Congress party after its Kerala MP Shashi Tharoor made fun of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for wearing ''all sorts of outlandish headgear" but refusing to wear a skull-cap.

Slamming Tharoor for his remarks, Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju said, ''Congress party and Shashi Tharoor ji please explain what's the English meaning of outlandish and hilarious headgear? You can't get away after insulting the tribal and Northeast people."

"I demand an apology from the Congress party for insulting the people of India`s Northeast and tribals. Shashi Tharoor described Northeast people and Naga tribal headgears as funny looking outlandish and hilarious," Rijiju said in a tweet.

Congress Party & Shashi Tharoor ji please explain what's the English meaning of outlandish & hilarious headgear?

You can't get away after insulting the Tribal & North East people. https://t.co/8nQ22AyNHA  Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) August 6, 2018

The BJP demands an apology from the Congress party for insulting the people of Northeast and tribals, apart from seeking an explanation from Tharoor, the MoS said.

Another Minister and BJP leader Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore too expressed his displeasure over Congress leader's remarks and said, "Shashi Tharoor has insulted the proud cultural heritage of the people of Northeast.''

"This condescension and arrogance towards the people of India have become hallmark of @INCIndia," he added.

Shashi Tharoor insults the proud cultural heritage of the people of North-East. This condescension & arrogance towards the people of India have become hallmarks of @INCIndia. pic.twitter.com/vul4SOtpVN  Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) August 6, 2018

Echoing similar views, BJP national general secretary Ram Madhav asserted that Tharoor should learn to respect all customs. "Shocking and condemnable he is (Tharoor) making such irresponsible statements on Indian cultures and traditions. He should learn to respect all customs," he said.

Several BJP leaders have too ridiculed Tharoor for his jibe at the PM and asked him to withdraw his statement.

Addressing a seminar, the Thiruvananthapuram Congress MP had said, "Why does our Prime Minister, who wears all sorts of outlandish headgears wherever he goes around the country and around the world, but always refuses to wear a Muslim skull cap?

"You see him in hilarious Naga headgears and feathers. You see him in various kinds of extraordinary outfits, which is a right thing for a Prime Minister to do. Indira Gandhi has also been photographed wearing various kinds of costumes. But why he still always says no to one?"

"Why does he refuse to wear green, the colour that he says is identified with Muslim appeasement? What kind of talk it is?" Tharoor said.

Tharoor had earlier kicked up a political storm with his "Hindu Pakistan" remarks.

Coming down heavily on the BJP led government at the Centre, the Congress veteran had claimed that communal violence and killing in the name of cow vigilantism had increased in the last four years.

Citing Home Ministry figures, Tharoor claimed that at least 2,920 incidents of communal violence had occurred in the country in the last four years, leaving 389 people dead and scores injured.

Tharoor said that such incidents had increased as PM Modi had not come out openly and condemned the killings.

(With Agency inputs)
Chennai: There has been a significant decline in the clinical condition of DMK president M Karunanidhi over the last few hours, said a press note released by the Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday. "Despite maximum medical support, his vital organ functions continue to deteriorate," the hospital said in the statement.

Karunanidhi's health declined late on Monday and he continues to be under observation of doctors at the Kauvery hospital. With reports of the DMK veteran's deteriorating health conditions, a large number of DMK supporters and well-wishers have gathered outside Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence in Chennai.

The doctors of Chennai's Kauvery hospital had on Monday confirmed a sharp decline in the health of M Karunanidhi. Karunanidhis vital organ functions remained a challenge, the hospital said in the latest bulletin released late on Monday.

Karunanidhi, who turned 94 last month, was admitted to hospital in Chennai on July 18. The hospital had said he had undergone a procedure to replace his tracheostomy tube. He had the tube placed in December 2016 to help improve his breathing. Karunanidhi had been discharged after the procedure on July 23.

(With inputs from agencies)
Chennai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed his deep sadness over the death of DMK president M Karunanidhi. The DMK patriarch and former Tamil Nadu chief minister died at the age of 94. Doctors at Kauvery Hospital declared him dead at 6.10 pm.

Calling the DMK patriarch 'one of the senior most leaders of India', PM Modi said, "We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised."

In a series of tweets, the Prime Minister expressed his grief over the veteran leader's demise. "Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadus voice was effectively heard," he said.

"I have had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi Ji on several occasions. His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered," PM Modi added in another tweet.

He further said, "My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace."

Karunanidhi's health declined late on Monday following which he was under observation of doctors at the Kauvery hospital. With reports of the DMK veteran's deteriorating health conditions, a large number of DMK supporters and well-wishers gathered outside Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence in Chennai.

The doctors of Chennai's Kauvery hospital had earlier confirmed a sharp decline in the health of M Karunanidhi. Karunanidhi's vital organ functions remained a challenge, the hospital had said in a bulletin released late on Monday.

Karunanidhi, who had turned 94 last month, was admitted to hospital in Chennai on July 18. The hospital had said he had undergone a procedure to replace his tracheostomy tube. He had the tube placed in December 2016 to help improve his breathing. Karunanidhi had been discharged after the procedure on July 23.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday raised questions over who is funding shelter homes in Bihar. The apex court was hearing the case into alleged rapes at shelter home in Muzaffarpur in Bihar. The SC pulls up Bihar government for funding the NGO running Muzaffarpur shelter home where girls were allegedly raped and sexually abused.

The apex court also asked print, electronic and social media not to publish or display photos of victims of sexual abuse in any case. It said that if interviewed, the minor victims of sexual abuse will have a serious mental impact.

The SC had earlier on August 2 issued notices to the Bihar government and the Centre in connection with the case. The court had taken suo motu cognisance of the case and sought an explanation from the Bihar government and the Women and Child Development (WCD) Ministry asking how no action was taken to stop minor girls from being raped in shelters home.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar had on Monday blamed the long-standing "flaw in the system" of such shelter homes being run by NGOs in the entire country for such cases. He had announced his decision to phase out this practice in Bihar and said the state government would take over administration of all such centres over a period of time.

Meanwhile, the Patna High Court had on Monday accepted the Bihar government's request to monitor the CBI investigation into the case and ensure a speedy trial by appointing a special judge. The HC bench directed the CBI to submit details of the investigations done so far.

Over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the centre run by Brajesh Thakur, the chief of the state-funded NGO. The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls was first highlighted in an audit report submitted by the Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS), Mumbai, to the state's social welfare department in April.

An FIR was lodged against 11 people, including Thakur on May 31. In all, sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in their medical examination, while two others who were unwell were yet to undergo medical tests. Women staff members of the shelter home and Thakur were among those who were arrested by the local police in connection with the case.

The TISS audit report stated that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse. A special investigation team was formed to probe the complaints. The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani.
The Madras High Court bench, hearing DMKs plea demanding burial of party patriarch M Karunanidhis mortal remains near Anna Memorial at Chennais Marina beach, has adjourned the hearing till 8 am on Wednesday. The government is slated to file its reply on the issue as the hearing resumes in morning.

Tamil Nadus AIADMK government, which had denied permission to the DMK for the burial at Marina beach, sought more time from the Madras High Court bench, comprising acting Chief Justice CJ Ramesh and Justice SS Sundaram, to present its side of the argument.

Talking to mediapersons after the initial hearing at the residence of the Acting Chief Justice, DMK lawyer Saravanan Annadurai said that the bench asked them whether there was any other memorial at the site in question. Responding to the same, the DMK informed the court that there were three such memorials at the site.

According to him, the government was dilly dallying on the issue and buying more time. He further said that the court would most likely declare its decision by 8.30 am on Wednesday.

According to reports, the hearing may be resumed at the Madras High Court and not the residence of the Acting Chief Justice, where the hearing began after Tuesday midnight. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswami had held a meeting with states Advocate General ahead of the hearing.

The Madras High Court was moved even as DMK cadres reacted angrily to Tamil Nadu governments refusal over the burial site. Cadres and supporters resorted to violent protests outside Chennais Kauvery Hospital, where five-time Chief Minister breathed his last at 6.10 pm on Tuesday.

Ahead of the hearing, one Duraiswamy, who had filed a petition against AIADMK stalwart and former chief minister J Jayalalithaas burial at Marina beach, withdrew his petition, saying Karunanidhis mortal remains must be buried near Anna Memorial.

According to Bar and Bench, Duraiswamy said that he had filed his petition against alleged CRZ violations on account of Jayalalithaa's burial at Marina. According to him, the space sought for Karunanidhi's burial has already been declared a crematorium.

Meanwhile, leaders of opposition parties, including West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, have backed the DMK over its demand for burial of Karunanidhis mortal remains at Marina beach.

Mamata, who arrived in Chennai later Tuesday evening, requested the state government to grant the permission for Marina beach burial, while the Congress chief urged the AIADMK government in the state to be magnanimous in this time of grief.

Amid the legal battle over the Kalaignars burial site, DMK spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for the denial of permission by Tamil Nadus AIADMK government.

Saravanan attacked the BJP saying the party had been exposed. He tweeted, Looks like it is the design of RSS to deny our great leader @kalaignar89 a place in Marina. The BJP stands exposed now, it is the BJP and its leaders who are opposing #Marina4Kalaignar.

Karunanidhis mortal remains were at first taken from Kauvery Hospital to his Gopalpuram residence, where supporters gathered in large number to get a glimpse of the veteran leader. The mortal remains were later moved to another residence of Karunanidhi at CIT Colony.

The mortal remains were slated to be taken to Rajaji Hall in the Government Estate in Chennai at 4 am on Wednesday.
NEW DELHI: BJP Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy on Tuesday hit back at Congress leader Shashi Tharoor for making fun of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for wearing ''all sorts of outlandish headgear but refusing to wear a skull-cap.''

Reacting to Tharoor's comments on PM Modi, Swamy said, ''Your (Tharoor) suit boot is also not new to us. You look like a waiter in suit-boot.''

#WATCH: Subramanian Swamy reacts on Shashi Tharoor's remark 'why does PM refuse to wear a Muslim skull cap? Have seen him in hilarious Naga head dress&various extraordinary outfits', says 'tumhara suit-boot ajeeb nahi hai hamare liye? Suit-boot pehen ke tum waiter jaise lagte ho' pic.twitter.com/F1CT5B6FyZ  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Ahead of Swamy, Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju and many others from BJP had attacked Tharoor for his crass remarks on PM Modi.

''Congress party and Shashi Tharoor ji please explain what's the English meaning of outlandish and hilarious headgear? You can't get away after insulting the tribal and Northeast people," MoS Rijjiju had said.

"I demand an apology from the Congress party for insulting the people of India`s Northeast and tribals. Shashi Tharoor described Northeast people and Naga tribal headgears as funny looking outlandish and hilarious," Rijiju said in a tweet.

The BJP demands an apology from the Congress party for insulting the people of Northeast and tribals, apart from seeking an explanation from Tharoor, the MoS said.

Another Minister and BJP leader Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore too expressed his displeasure over Congress leader's remarks and said, "Shashi Tharoor has insulted the proud cultural heritage of the people of Northeast.''

"This condescension and arrogance towards the people of India have become hallmark of @INCIndia," he added.

Echoing similar views, BJP national general secretary Ram Madhav asserted that Tharoor should learn to respect all customs. "Shocking and condemnable he is (Tharoor) making such irresponsible statements on Indian cultures and traditions. He should learn to respect all customs," he said.

Several BJP leaders have too ridiculed Tharoor for his jibe at the PM and asked him to withdraw his statement.

Addressing a seminar, the Thiruvananthapuram Congress MP had said, "Why does our Prime Minister, who wears all sorts of outlandish headgears wherever he goes around the country and around the world, but always refuses to wear a Muslim skull cap?

"You see him in hilarious Naga headgears and feathers. You see him in various kinds of extraordinary outfits, which is a right thing for a Prime Minister to do. Indira Gandhi has also been photographed wearing various kinds of costumes. But why he still always says no to one?"

"Why does he refuse to wear green, the colour that he says is identified with Muslim appeasement? What kind of talk it is?" Tharoor said.

Tharoor had earlier kicked up a political storm with his "Hindu Pakistan" remarks.

Coming down heavily on the BJP led government at the Centre, the Congress veteran had claimed that communal violence and killing in the name of cow vigilantism had increased in the last four years.

Citing Home Ministry figures, Tharoor claimed that at least 2,920 incidents of communal violence had occurred in the country in the last four years, leaving 389 people dead and scores injured.

Tharoor said that such incidents had increased as PM Modi had not come out openly and condemned the killings.

(With Agency inputs)
Hyderabad: The YSR Congress party on Tuesday decided to vote against the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate in the upcoming Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman`s election. Party leader and Rajya Sabha member V Vijaysai Reddy announced that the party will vote against Janta Dal-United (JD-U) MP Harivansh Narayan Singh, who is the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA's candidate.

The YSR Congress, the main opposition party in Andhra Pradesh, has two members in the upper House of Parliament.

Five Lok Sabha members of the YSR Congress have resigned to protest the Centre's refusal to accord special category status to Andhra Pradesh.

The party had earlier backed NDA candidates in the presidential and vice presidential elections.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu had earlier announced that the new Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman will be elected on August 9. The post of the Deputy Chairman fell vacant after P.J. Kurien retired in July. The election will be held a day before the conclusion of the monsoon session of Parliament.

The election is likely to be a close affair as the opposition bloc has an edge over the BJP-led NDA in terms of numbers.
BENGALURU: In yet another development which raises a question mark over the stability of the JD(S)-Congress coalition government in Karnataka, the two parties have thrown indication that they would contest the upcoming civic polls in the state separately.

It is to be noted that the results of the Urban Local Bodies (ULB) elections will be declared on August 29.

According to the sources, the two ruling alliance partners have decided to fight the civic polls separately to keep the arch-rival BJP at the bay.

Although there is no confirmation as yet, the move is likely to placate the local workers.

However, a section of leaders in the two parties fears that contesting civic polls separately may widen the gap between the two parties in Bengaluru.

The state election commission has declared elections to 29 municipalities with 927 wards, 53 town municipalities with 1,247 wards and 23 town panchayats with 400 wards on August 29.

The remaining 105 local bodies will vote later.

Sources claimed that tough some leaders of the two parties pressed for contesting the civic polls together, the party leadership decided otherwise fearing that the local sentiments would be hurt and people might vote against the ruling alliance that would favour BJP.

Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) president Dinesh Gundurao was quoted as saying that the state leadership had decided not to interfere in the upcoming civic polls and left it to the discretion of local level leaders.

Interestingly, JD(S) supremo and former prime minister HD Deve Gowda and his Chief Minister son HD Kumaraswamy have also opposed a seat-sharing arrangement.

The BJP, however, is confident of its victory in the civic polls and hopes that the urban voters will favour the party against the unholy alliance between JDS and Congress.
KOCHI: The authorities in Kerala claimed to have cracked the mystery behind the gruesome murder of four members of a family in Idukki nearly a week ago.

The Kerala Police, which have arrested two persons in connection with the case, attributed black magic and professional rivalry as the reason behind the crime.

The Kerala Police managed to crack the case four-five after the bodies of K Krishnan (52), his wife Susheela (50), daughter Arsha (22) and son Arjun (20) were found stacked in a newly-dug trench on the premises of their house in Thdopuzha on August 1.

The Idukki Police claimed that a man called Aneesh had committed the crime with the help of Libeesh, a motor mechanic from Thodupuzha. Both have been arrested.

Aneesh used to help his mentor Krishnan who practised black magic and learnt sorcery from him.

Aneesh later started practising the black magic rituals on his own, but was not as successful as his mentor and suspected that Krishnans magical powers were responsible for his plight, Venugopal, the Idukki Superintendent of Police, said.

The anger and frustration brewing in Aneesh gave way to a professional rivalry between him and his mentor Krishnan.

Nearly six months back, Aneesh hatched a conspiracy to eliminate Krishnan with the help of his old friend Libeesh, the police informed.

Since Aneesh was aware that Krishnans family was not very friendly with neighbours and relatives, he was confident that he would be able to execute his plans, the SP said.

Aneesh also believed that Krishnan was in possession of some palm leaf scriptures having some black magic customs. After killing Krishnan, Aneesh thought of possessing these scriptures but failed to find them, the police said.

The two committed the crime in over two days, according to the police.

As per their plans, Aneesh and Libeesh reached Krishnans house during the night on July 29 and attacked his goats. When Krishnan heard the goats loud bleats, he came out of his house to check them, but was attacked with an iron rod by the two accused.

A few minutes later, Krishnan's wife Susheela too came out to check what happened and both attacked her in a similar way.

After killing Krishnan and his wife, the two accused entered the house and killed his daughter Arsha, a BEd student, and son Arjun.

The police revealed that after finishing their task in about an hour, the two accused left the house after keeping the bodies inside a locked room.

They returned to the house the next night and searched for valuables and scriptures. They took many sovereigns of gold, Rs 3,500 in cash but failed to locate any scripture.

During their interrogation, Aneesh and Libesh told police that Krishnan and his son were alive even after a day of the attack and that they again hit them heads with a shovel to ensure their death.

They later dug a pit and buried all the four bodies one over the other and left the house after cleaning the premises.

Seeing no activity for nearly three days and spotting unread newspapers outside Krishnan's house, the neighbours informed the police suspecting some untoward incident.

The Idukki Police, which has been rewarded for resolving the murder mystery, is also trying to ascertain if other persons are involved in the crime.
MUMBAI: Around 17 lakh employees of the Maharashtra government are on a three-day strike beginning Tuesday to press for demands like the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission.

However, around 1.5 lakh gazetted officers withdrew from the strike after a Government Resolution (GR) was issued on Monday night stating that the pending arrears of the Dearness Allowance (DA) for a period of 14 months will be paid to them.

Another GR was issued stating that the 7th pay commission will be implemented from January 2019.

The demand of employees for a five-day week and raising the retirement age from 58 years to 60 years will be taken up during Diwali, an official said.

The arrears will be paid in the salaries of employees for August month, as per the GR.

If the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission is delayed, the employees will get the benefit as per the wage structure of the Central government employees from January 2019, it stated.

Earlier in the day, state Government Employees Organisation president Nitin Sardeshmukh said class III and class IV employees of Zilla Parishads, state hospitals, staff working at Mantralaya (secretariat) will participate in the strike.

"The employees of the Central government have been getting the benefits of the 7th pay commission since 2016. Seven state governments have implemented the pay commission," he said.

Sardeshmukh said the employees are yet to receive the arrears accrued to them since the implementation of the sixth Pay Commission by the state government.

He said 1.85 lakh posts of class III and class IV employees are lying vacant in Maharashtra.

"Moreover, the demand for filling up 30,000 posts on compassionate grounds is also not accepted by the state government," Sardesmukh claimed.

He said around 30 to 40 per cent of total posts are lying vacant in hospitals and other essential services departments.

A General Administration Department (GAD) official said the employees working in essential services deparments like hospitals, fire brigade, water supply etc. Have been directed not to join the strike, or else provisions of Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) will be invoked against them.
New Delhi: Honor, Huawei's e-brand for digital natives, has announced the second sale of its newly launched Honor 9N smartphone.

The Honor 9N flash sale will kick off at 12PM on exclusively on Flipkart as well on Honor store on Tuesday. The smartphone comes in two storage variants 4GB RAM + 64GB at Rs 13,999 and 4GB RAM + 128GB at Rs 17,999. The Honor 9N will be available in two color variants Sapphire Blue and Midnight Black.

Honor India has tweeted:

Get ready to own the stunningly beautiful #Honor9N (4+64GB) with a captivating Notch display, in less than 2 hours at INR 13,999 at 12 noon on @Flipkart & #Honor Store!!Avail exciting offers! *T&C Apply

Flipkart: https://t.co/ANABtabiN6

Honor Store: https://t.co/PVtyhFgvJe pic.twitter.com/6kIY8SM6G8  Honor India (@HiHonorIndia) August 7, 2018

Customers can avail Rs 2,200 Cashback and 100 GB additional 4G Data and upto Rs 1,200 Myntra vouchers with an exclusive Jio Offer.

Honor 9N is equipped with narrow Notch Display design with 14.84cm, 2280x1080 FHD+ resolution with 19:9 aspect ratio and 79 percent screen to body ratio for more screen space with minimum bezel experience. The phone is built with 12 layer of premium glass rear design which allows it to have a smooth, mirror-like finish.

The primary camera is equipped fast focusing technology (PDAF) and the 'Bokeh Effect'. The 16MP front selfie camera with 4 in 1 light fusion technology allows users to click those perfect selfies in any given light conditions.
Mumbai: Known for his powerful music and introvert nature, Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman says that as an artiste, he prefers to create an alternate reality as opposed to expressing an opinion on the troubled socio-political scenario worldwide.

Rahman mostly refrains from commenting on any current affairs like many celebrities.

Asked if the socio-political situations affect him, Rahman said here: "I think this is a golden time for the artiste to express, to unify people... The artiste inside you should wake up now, this is our time. There should be a revolution now. I feel more inspired now in terms of the adversity that is happening, because an artiste is the one who does not reflect the reality... He creates an alternate reality.

"So when people are going for a war, the artiste makes an alternate reality of peace. So, my work of art should be more beautiful when the world around me is ugly with brutality."

Citing the reference of some of the historical music pieces, the "Dil Se.." and "Slumdog Millionaire" fame composer said: "I think the best piece of art comes to an artiste when the society is chaotic, troubled and noisy. It is a blessing and a curse, and that is when the greatest symphony has been written.

"When Germany went to war against Britain, the greatest Beethoven stuff has happened. There is a history behind the music."

Rahman spoke as he promoted the Amazon Prime Video show "Harmony With A.R. Rahman", which features musicians from four parts of India - Maharashtra, Kerala, Sikkim and Manipur. He is hosting the show, which will go live on August 15.

He says the four places were chosen as "these are some of the ignored areas of our country and people do not care much about their music, people and culture".

"They are connected somewhere to make our country, culturally a diverse one," said Rahman.

He believes that human stories always connect people along with the music. When he went to these places and got to know the stories behind people's musical journey, he was fascinated.

"These musicians are keeping some old traditions alive, meeting the expectation of their fathers by playing the music. When we play music professionally, there are certain things that we do -- there is a competitive spirit, things like who is playing something faster than the other.

"On the other hand, I met musicians from these regions who are told not to take it professionally because music is something very spiritual. They are doing it for the love of it. These qualities are lost in the mainstream. And that impressed me."

Was the intention behind the show to establish the co-existence of different music that goes beyond Bollywood?

"Not only music, but the continuous flow of human life... The idea is to project the diversity that makes India the country it is."

While his involvement in mainstream Bollywood is shifting to only selective projects, Rahman is utilising his creative energy to expand his horizon beyond being a musician.

"I am learning about storytelling, script writing and film production because of my production house. I do not want to be naive about things as a producer. If I am asking a film director to change something in his piece of work, I should pinpoint the right thing that is possible to change. So that in the difference of thought, we can find a creative solution."

Two films -- "99 Songs" and "Le Musk" (India's first virtual reality film) -- are there on the pipeline from his production house.

Apart from making a mark for Indian music on the global map, Rahman also contributes to philanthropic work, which he considers an extension of the "evolution of humanity."
New Delhi: Prince Narula and Yuvika Chaudhary met inside the reality show 'Bigg Boss 9. They entered as contestants and soon turned friends. The couple fell in love and eventually, things took a beautiful turn. The duo is now set to take the plunge and tie the knot.

The buzz is strong that 'Bigg Boss 9' winner Prince and Yuvika will get married on October 12 this year but the actress has revealed that the date has not been locked as yet. She told Pinkvilla.com, I am getting married this year that everyone knows and well, yes the preparations are on. There are a few options of the date and I will tell you as soon as it's confirmed. I would love to announce it."

When asked about the jittery feeling before marriage, Yuvika told the portal, "Yes, of course, I have jitters and this is a different stage of my life. When the marriage date comes close, you have jitters and excitement both. It's a different life altogether. The beauty of our culture is that a girl has to leave her home. I have been living with my family so yes it's a big change for me."

"When I am roaming around with Prince, I have to come back home as there are certain rules and I really love that. I know I am getting married soon and in this time, you get more close to your family. The feeling of getting married is beautiful but you do have jitters, she added.

Yuvika and Prince met in 2015 on 'Bigg Boss 9'. They have appeared as a couple on "Splitsvilla X", and also were seen in an episode of "MTV Love School" season 3.
New Delhi: Bollywood actress Genelia D'Souza who turned 31 on August 5, shared a longish post on Instagram, thanking her husband Ritesh Deshmukh for always making her special.

Taking to Instagram, Genelia wrote, "N then came something even more special. HIS FIRST EVER PAINTING ... @riteishd I love you and thats part of my world and part of what I do in a heartbeat but how could I not,, when you think of making things special for me, when you make sure my day goes just the way I like it and most importantly when you make me feel we are never too old to celebrate and more importantly celebrate Life..

I know you are going to be embarrassed I posted this but gratitude is something we take for granted and Im not doing that anymore.. Im so proud of you and if that means shouting it out from the rooftops I would do that in a jiffy.. #lovemakestheworldgoround #Thisisus."

Earlier, Genelia shared a picture of a birthday cake baked by Riteish, especially for her birthday.

"So yesterday was my birthday and I just feel once you are a mom you kinda forget about yourself most often but thank god for @riteishd .. he finds ways to make me feel special and he baked me this most gorgeous yummiest caramel cheesecake.. Ive known Riteish all these years and cooking or baking was never something he thought of attempting but for us he did and apart from him being so good at it, him doing it for you, makes the world go round ... N hey that was just #surprise no.1, " her post read.



The couple made their Bollywood debut together with Tujhe Meri Kasam and were rumoured to be dating since then. They got married on February 3, 2012, and share adorable photos on social media from time to time.
Popular Indian cinema actor Rajinikanth, who is expected to launch his own political party soon, expressed his grief on the demise of DMK patriarch and five-time Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi, who breathed his last in Chennai on Tuesday evening.

Rajinikanth said that it was a black day in his life. He said, Today is a black day in my life, one which I can never forget as I lost my Kalaignar. I pray for his soul.

DMK patriarch Karunanidhi breathed his last at 6.10 pm on Tuesday at Chennais Kauvery Hospital. He was admitted to the hospital in July 18.

His demise was confirmed by the hospital through a statement which read, "With deep anguish, we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 PM. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond. We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family member and fellow Tamilians worldwide."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the death of the Tamil Nadu strongman. He tweeted, "My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace."

"I have had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi Ji on several occasions. His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered."

"Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," he further wrote.
CHENNAI: DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi, whose health declined late on Monday, continues to be under observation of the doctors at the Kauvery hospital here on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, a large number of DMK supporters and well-wishers have gathered outside Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence in Chennai.

The DMK veteran's daughter Kanimozhi and other family members are trying to pacify the crowd and briefing them about their beloved leader's health condition.

DMK leader Kanimozhi meets people gathered outside Chennai's Kauvery hospital where her father and former Tamil Nadu CM M Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment. The hospital stated a decline in his medical condition yesterday. pic.twitter.com/l87nQ0PwJf  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

The doctors of Chennais Kauvery hospital had on Monday confirmed a sharp decline in the health of M Karunanidhi. Karunanidhis vital organ functions remained a challenge, the hospital said in the latest bulletin released late on Monday.

''There has been a decline in the medical condition of Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi, DMK President and former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Maintaining his vital organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age-related ailments, read the bulletin.

His is on continuous monitoring and being treated with active medical support. His response to the medical interventions over the next 24 hours will determine the prognosis, it further read.

Chennai's Kauvery Hospital issues the medical bulletin of DMK Chief M Karunanidhi; states a decline in his medical condition. #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/CSCUfOuE49  ANI (@ANI) August 6, 2018

Tamil Nadu Congress unit chief S Thirunavukkarasar had earlier said that there was some setback in Karunanidhis health on Monday morning, adding that the condition had improved since then.

After visiting the DMK patriarch in the hospital, he had said, "There was some setback in his health in the morning, after that it is improving. He is still under doctors' observation and treatment. I pray to God for his speedy recovery."

Kauvery Hospital, where the veteran Tamil Nadu politician is currently admitted, had last week said that the 94-year-old needs to be kept for an extended period 'due to age-related overall decline in his health.'

Karunanidhi was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital after his blood pressure dropped. His health deteriorated later, leading to well-wishers and party cadres flocking to the hospital.

Over the days since he has been hospitalised, at least 21 dedicated workers of the party lost their lives after they were unable to bear the "shock" of his illness. DMK working president MK Stalin, while mourning the death of 21 DMK members over Karunanidhi's ill health, had appealed to the cadres not to take any extreme step and maintain calm.

(With Agency inputs)
New Delhi: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has integrated its mobile apps DND 2.0 and MyCall with UMANG Platform.

With a view to increase reachability and facilitate citizens, NeGD and TRAI have integrated DND 2.0 and My Call App on UMANG Android platform (App). Consumers having Android phones can either download the TRAI apps individually from Google Playstore or can Access it directly from the Umang application, an official release said.

UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) is developed by National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

UMANG provides a single platform for all Indian Citizens to access pan India e-Gov services ranging from Central to Local Government bodies and other citizen centric services. It provides a unified approach where citizens can install one application to avail multiple government services.

What is MyCall App

TRAI MyCall is an intuitive and user friendly application for Crowdsourced Voice Call Quality Monitoring. The Application helps Mobile phone users to rate their experience about voice call quality in real time and help TRAI gather consumer experience data along with Network data.

A pop up requests the user to rate the call after it ends. Callers simply select their rating in the form of stars and indicate if the calls were made in indoor, outdoor or while travelling. Caller scan also provide additional details such as noise or audio delay or mark a call-drop.

What is DND 2.0 App

DND (Do Not Disturb) Services App enables smart phone users to register their mobile number under DND and report spam messages or calls to avoid Unsolicited Commercial Communication (UCC)/Telemarketing Calls/SMS.
LOS ANGELES: Fire authorities insisted on Monday that they have ample water supplies to fight California`s devastating wildfires, contrary to US President Donald Trump`s tweets that unspecified water diversions to the Pacific were making matters worse.

Officials from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) and the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho, stressed that wild-land blazes are battled primarily by crews hacking away at dry brush with hand tools and bulldozers, not with water.

"Yes, we have plenty of water," CalFire Chief Scott McLean said by telephone, adding that the two largest blazes in California this week - the Carr Fire and the Mendocino Complex Fire - were each ringed by at least three major reservoirs.

He said the tweets, after Trump on Sunday approved a federal disaster declaration requested by Governor Jerry Brown for the fires, sparked a barrage of media queries to CalFire.

On Sunday, Trump tweeted, "California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren`t allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!"

Then on Monday he tweeted, "Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water - Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals."

The White House did not respond to requests to clarify Trumps tweets, and did not immediately respond when asked about Gleicks comments.

Neither McLean nor Jessica Gardetto, a spokeswoman for the Idaho-based fire agency, would address the tweets directly, but Gardetto said by telephone, "Most wildfire suppression efforts involve firefighters and boots on the ground."

Water, used in protecting homes and other structures and for dumping on flames from airplane tankers and helicopters, is critical but secondary to the larger manual efforts of clearing unburned vegetation to remove it as potential fuel around a fire`s perimeter.

Peter Gleick, one of California`s leading experts on Western water resources as president of the Oakland-based Pacific Institute, said that Trump appeared to be seizing on the wildfires to side with farmers on a separate debate over how to allocate California`s finite water resources among farmers, cities, fish and wildlife.

"There`s nothing that California water policy has done that makes these fires worse or more difficult to fight," Gleick said. Trump`s references to diverting water to the oceans was "completely backwards," he said.

"The water that reaches the ocean is what`s left after we`ve diverted most of the water away for cities and farms, and what little is left is barely enough for California`s aquatic ecosystems and the fisheries," he said.

Trump`s suggestion that environmental laws were somehow compounding wildfire woes drew derision on Twitter.

Critics said his tweets ignored the greater wildfire frequency and severity experienced in California and other Western states from extreme drought and sustained periods of hot, dry weather, in keeping with the forecasts of climate scientists.

Fire officials have said that 95 percent of all wildfires are caused by humans, from camp fires left unattended to careless smoking, to sparks from vehicles and improperly maintained power lines.
The battle for one-upmanship between China and the United States is not just restricted to the realms of international trade and the military. It permeates deep into the complex world of digital technology and of supercomputers.

Once upon a time, the fastest supercomputers were regularly developed by Americans. Then, China entered the fray to take the mantle. In June, the US snatched it right back with The Summit Supercomputer capable of 200,000 trillion (or 200 petaflops) calculations per second. And now, China is reportedly developing a new supercomputer that could blow rivals out of the park.

State-run Global Times has reported that several science institutes have been developing a new supercomputer for two years which could do calculations at the speed of 1,000 petaflops - that's five times quicker than the existing American record-holder. While a prototype is believed to be ready, the new supercomputer in its true manifestation would also be leaps and bounds ahead of the current Chinese supercomputer which does calculations at the speed of 125.4 petaflops.

If the Americans thought beating the Chinese by a margin of 60% was a solid blow, there is an unprecedented and ginormous counterpunch in the offing.

It is reported that almost every component of the new supercomputer has been manufactured domestically and an official in the know said he is confident of a formal launch by 2020.
For years, there has been rampant and widespread opposition within Pakistan to the construction of Kalabagh Dam (KBD) on Indus river in the country's Punjab province. From locals in the Mianwali District to even politicians with considerable clout, criticism has been severe.

Yet, the caretaker government here has somehow managed to turn the attention towards India, indirectly pointing at the country for stoking the flames.

Pakistan-based Dawn recently quoted the country's caretaker minister for water resources as saying that there could be a foreign hand in the opposition to KBD. His reason? "Anti-KBD conferences and protests organised in foreign countries appear better organised than the ones within Pakistan."

Speaking to members of the press, Ali Zafar then pointed an accusatory finger at India and said that several dam projects across the border have been in violation of water treaties signed in the past. The Kishanganga Hydropower Project was in for specific criticism. This despite the World Bank denying Pakistan's call for court of arbitration.

The Kishanganga Project was inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on May 19.

Islamabad now possibly fears that this and other dam projects could help India bleed Pakistan dry. "India has managed to build about 400 damns after the Indus Water Treaty while Pakistan has not even managed to build the KBD. It (KBD) is very important. It is life  and it should be built as a priority," said Zafar.

Zafar though failed to address concerns raised by political leaders and parties in his own country. In the past, Jamaat-i-Islami had warned of flash floods if KBD comes to fruition. Others - mostly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa like ANP and JUI(F) have warned against it. At one point, the country's leader of the opposition - Syed Khurshid Ahmed Shah - had said that KBD is a threat to small provinces. Still others have highlighted issues of people getting displaced if KBD becomes a reality. In fact, under Nawaz Sharif, there were numerous attempts to build a political consensus but none worked.

Therefore, to blame India for KBD being a paper project appears a rather hollow suspicion. Security experts believe that it often helps governments in Pakistan to shift blame across the border to hide its own follies and the issue of KBD and other damns is a prime example of this.
In Italy, it has long been an open secret that far-right activists were fighting in Donbass, the eastern Ukrainian region

Plenty of attention has been paid to the European-born fighters who have joined the Islamic State and other Islamist militant groups in the Middle East  and the efforts of European countries to stop them. But what about those fighting in Ukraine?

In Italy, it has long been an open secret that far-right activists were fighting in Donbass, the eastern Ukrainian region where pro-Russian separatists  with Russian government assistance  have been fighting the Ukrainian government since 2014. Italian authorities, however, didnt seem interested in stopping them.

That suddenly changed last week, when prosecutors in the northern Italian city of Genoa ordered the arrest of six men accused of joining pro-Russian militias in Donbass and recruiting others to their cause. The arrests marked the first time Italian authorities have charged anyone with fighting in Ukraine, though three of the men remain at large. The same prosecutors have also charged 15 other people with being part of the recruitment ring.

Whats interesting is that some of them were already known faces whose activities in Ukraine were common knowledge, said Francesco Marone, a research fellow at the Italian Institute for International Political Studies.

One of the fugitives is Andrea Palmieri, a former leader of the far-right hooligan group Bulldog Lucca who had previously appeared on national TV boasting about fighting in Ukraine. Another one is Gabriele Carugati, the son of a politician from the far-right League party  the League is one of Italys two current governing parties  who had publicly praised her sons choice to fight in Ukraine.

[Now that the Islamic State has fallen in Iraq and Syria, where are all its fighters going?]

The Genoa police had been investigating far-right networks in the area since 2016, according to the newspaper Genova Today. But the arrests seem to have come in response to complaints from Ukraine earlier this year. In April, a member of the Ukrainian Parliament submitted a list of 25 Italian citizens believed to be fighting with pro-Russian militias.

Authorities in Genoa carried out the investigations and arrests in collaboration with the ROS, the anti-organizated crime and anti-terrorism branch of the Carabinieri, Italys paramilitary national police force, but no officials from the national government have yet commented on the arrests.

Foreign fighters from Italy generally fall into three categories: those fighting with Islamist groups, mostly in Syria or Libya; those joining the YPG, a Syrian Kurdish militia, and other Kurdish groups; and those fighting in Ukraine, Marone said.

While Italy approved a special law against foreign fighters in 2015, it targeted youth joining the Islamic State and other Islamist groups. But it does not apply to those joining separatist groups in Ukraine, who are being prosecuted as unauthorized mercenaries rather than terrorists because pro-Russian militias are not considered terrorist groups by Italy.

Authorities have different attitudes toward these 3 groups, Marone said. ISIS returnees are seen as a threat because they belong to an organization that also carries attacks in Europe, while foreign fighters coming back from Kurdistan are widely tolerated, and so were those coming back from Ukraine

Marone argued that far-right fighters still post a threat because of their links to violent groups within Italy. They are seen as dangerous not because they could carry some kind of terror attack or guerrilla operations in Italy, but because they are violent individuals who have learned how to use weapons, he said.

Read the original text here.
Read original article at 112.ua

There are three large navigable rivers In Ukraine - the Danube, the Dnipro and the Southern Buh. All of them flow through large settlements and have access to the Black Sea. The Danube and the Dnipro are among the five largest rivers in Europe. The aforementioned proves that there are opportunities for river transport in Ukraine. However, in addition to the agrarians, no one seriously deals with the development of the transportation of goods along the rivers of Ukraine.



"River transportations are poorly developed here, only 1.5% of all cargoes are transported in this way, compared to more than 12% in Germany, more than 16% in Bulgaria, and up to 20% in Romania. Ukraine has a lot of chances to grow," says Andriy Popov, partner of Kreston GCG.



According to the Administration of Seaports of Ukraine, during January-May of 2018, 3301 shipments were made by the Dnipro, which is 287, or 8.7% more than a year earlier. In total, 316.8 thousand tons of metal products (+ 6.2%), 683.6 thousand tons of grain (-7%), 17.3 thousand tons of oil products (+ 5.2%) and 902 thousand tons of construction materials (+ 24.3%) and other cargo. It is possible to remember 1991, when the volume of river cargo transportation amounted to 65 million tons.



For his part, Andriy Popov notes what is carried in Ukraine along the rivers and what can be carried in large quantities.



Agrarian products. For the time being this is mainly the transportation of grain by the NIBULON Company, which owns its own shipyard for the construction and repair of river vessels. But there is potential for the development of domestic transport. The very fact of the resumption of such transportation proved that it is possible to carry not only grain for export to the Black Sea ports along the Dnipro.



Agrarian chemicals (mainly plant protection products and fertilizers).



Construction materials and raw materials for their creation (to the plants of Belarus, which are major consumers of the corresponding goods).



Oil and refined products (again, from Belarus and Lithuania, which are one of the main suppliers of fuel to Ukraine).



Ferrous metallurgy (at the moment, Zaporizhstal exports about 25% of its products by the Dnipro).



To maintain navigability, it is necessary to constantly carry out dredging operations. This is quite a costly thing for the state budget. But it should be noted that in 2018 the Administration of Seaports of Ukraine plans to improve logistics along the Dnipro and begin two programs for dredging the Dnipro (94 km) and Prypiat (38 km) rivers. All these projects in 2018 will cost 80 million UAH.



"In advanced economies, river transport is more competitive comparing with rail and road transport. The United States and the European Union have adopted the corresponding strategy, and for centuries everything has been done to ensure that cargo is transported by river transport, and river transport is developing, and shipbuilding is in demand, and the economy is working efficiently. In Ukraine, ministers and officials of various levels only talk a lot about the fact that river transport is economically advantageous. In fact, our river transport is economically unprofitable, because its competitiveness is lower in relation to rail and road ones. In fact, unlike other countries, river transport is burdened with a large number of taxes and fees (excise tax on fuel, payment for bridges, passage of locks, rent for use of water resources and other various taxes), so it does not develop. In turn, this does not stimulate the development of domestic shipbuilding, as it is not in demand, and navigation on the rivers is economically unprofitable, " says Olexiy Vadatursky, CEO of NIBULON.

River Perspectives

Of course, there are some prospects for river navigation, but today the infrastructure is largely destroyed, and there is no necessary investment. That old infrastructure that exists does not provide the needed volume of cargo, security, efficient loading and unloading of ships.



"The measures proposed by the Ministry of infrastructures lead to the fact that today 30 shipbuilding plants, 10 of which are huge enterprises, remain without orders, because ships are not needed in Ukraine, because they are unprofitable to operate, they are expensive. Twenty years ago In the shipbuilding industry there were up to 150 thousand workers, and today less than 7 thousand people. There are 750 people employed in our company, all other large shipyards stopped. Although each of our three shipbuilding plants in Mykolayiv, or Kherson shipyard for the year could build as many ships as we have built in 5 years. Therefore, we have possibilities. We are lobbying not the interests of our company, but of the entire shipbuilding and river shipping industry .We want dozens of companies like ours. The Dnipro will concentrate all cargo flows both up and down the river, and the automobile routes (which are now destroyed by the use of heavy trucks) will be in excellent condition", says Olexiy Vadatursky.



At the same time, according to Olexander Kava, the former deputy minister of infrastructure of Ukraine, the prospects for the development of river cargo transportation have become the subject of political speculation. "All this talk about redirecting cargo flows from the road and rail transport to the rivers is not professional. The river competes with other modes of transport only where it flows. First, not all freight flows go along the Dnipro, and secondly, the river mode of transport it is rather slow, and for many categories of cargo it does not fit. Third, river transport is characterized by seasonality, which makes it uncomfortable for companies with a year-round cycle of production and logistics. There is some potential for increasing river cargo transportation in Ukraine, but it is not as significant as it is now said, " the expert states.

What to do?



The development of river transport for all the time of independence in Ukraine has not received due attention. "As a result, we practically do not have river carriers. Ukrrichflot and NIBULON are, in fact, monopolies in river transportation. The fleet is sorely lacking, there are no developed logistics routes, and the developed schemes. shippers simply do not view river transport as an alternative to land transport. A comprehensive national program for the development of river transport is required, including, in particular, the stimulation of the construction of the fleet, increasing the attractiveness of river transport in the eyes of consignors, the development of infrastructure. And we have not been able to take even a law on river transport for a year," emphasizes Andriy Isaev.



Experts point out that the issue of the development of river navigation is largely tied to legislation. Currently, there are two draft laws on inland water transport in the parliament (there are six of them, but these two are "realistic").



As noted by Andriy Popov, to improve the situation with river transport it is necessary to undertake a wide range of measures - the modification of the river infrastructure and the river fleet of Ukraine.



- almost all infrastructure was created back in Soviet times and since then it has not been practically updated. The level of depreciation of fixed assets currently exceeds 80%. NIBULON has a more or less modern crew, but it is not enough, and it only carries its own cargo. In 2015, World Bank experts estimated the cost of modernization of the river port infrastructure for the transit of only grain - the amount was estimated at $ 270 million. Also, the elimination of tariff barriers is needed. First of all, it is necessary to settle the issue with river collection. In Ukraine it is higher than in most countries of Europe, which is a serious obstacle for business.

- opening of the river water areas of Ukraine for ships under foreign flags. But this requires, first, legislative changes. Recall that the admission of vessels under the foreign flag on the river routes is not regulated by law, but the Ministry of Infrastructure proposed to open waterways for foreign vessels, but close the possibility of entering Russian ships into the internal waters of the country. Secondly - settlement of tariff issues. Thus, a passage through the Kakhovka Gateway last year cost about 1 thousand dollars for Ukrainian cabotage ship, while for a foreign ship it was almost 4.5 times more expensive. Such a situation clearly does not stimulate foreign vessels to import goods to Ukraine along the rivers.



- simplification of customs escort for transit cargo. The easier and faster the cargo will pass the "river" borders between states, the higher will be the interest of business in the river transit.



- the Danube, in turn, allows profitable transportation of goods to European countries. The key role in this is played by the Ukrainian Danube Shipping Company, which carries 20% of all river transit on the Danube, carries cargo to a number of European countries (Germany, Serbia, Romania, Hungary, Austria).



- the development of the Baltic-Black Sea transport corridor should become the key driver of the growth of navigation along the Dnipro. It opens opportunities for expansion of transit from Belarus - an important trading partner of Ukraine, which at the same time owns its own river fleet. Belarus is also important in exporting its goods through the seaports of neighboring countries, which is up to 35 million tons per year.



The Belarusian Maritime Shipping Company intends to purchase five new vessels for cargo transportation on the Ukrainian section of the Dnipro. Earlier, it stated that Belarus was requesting transportation of oil products from the Mozyr Oil Refinery, timber, building materials and ferrous metallurgy products down the Dnipro. From Ukraine, raw materials for chemical production, slag for cement production, granulated meal, sunflower oil and cereals can be supplied upstream along the river.



Ukraine can be part of the EU project on the creation of E-40 Baltic - Black Sea transport corridor which should connect Poland, Belarus and Ukraine along the Vistula, the Western Buh, the Prypyat and the transport corridor. But it is still difficult to talk about its actual implementation, as both geopolitics and multibillion investments are at stake.
The militants violated ceasefire regime 11 times from the beginning of the day

Open source

From 7:00 a.m. through 6:00 p.m., the militants shelled the Ukrainian positions from grenade launchers and machine guns in the combat zone in Donbas. Two Ukranian soldiers injured, as a result of the shelling. The press office of JFO claimed this on Facebook.

The occupants opened aimed fire from grenade launchers, heavy machine guns and small arms at Joint Forces positions in the area of the settlements: Krymske, Pivdenne, Mariinka, Avdiivka, Chermalyk, Lebedynske, Pavlopil, Hruntove, and Shyrokyne. As a result of the activities of the Russian occupational forces, two servicemen of Joint Forces were wounded, reads the message.

The HQ added that the militants violated ceasefire regime 11 times from the beginning of the day.

Earlier, OSCE SMM recorded the increasements of heavy weapons and military equipment detected on the temporarily occupied territory of Donets region. In particular, up to two tank battalions, two battalions of self-propelled artillery, a battalion of towed howitzers and anti-aircraft artillery are registered.

Ukraine news on 112.international
Over the past 24 hours, the militants used banned heavy weaponry four times

Open source

The militants opened fire 30 times at the Armed Forces positions over the past 24 hours on August 6, four for them  from the heavy weapon, as the JFO HQ reported on Facebook.

It was also specified that the enemy was conducting adjusted fire from the grenade launchers, heavy machine guns and small arms. The Russian troops used infantry fighting vehicles in some sectors.

The attacks were conducted at the defenders of Krymske, Luhanske, Novoluhanske, Pivdenne, Novgorodske, Marinka, Avdiivka, Krasnohorivka, Chrmalyk, Hnutove, Lebedynske, Pavlopil, Vodyane and Shyrokyne. In addition, the enemy shot at our positions near Novoluhanske and Lebedynske from 82-mm mortar launchers, and from 120- and 82-mm mortar launchers at the defenders of Avdiivka. The enemy also used 120-mm mortar launchers firing at our positions near Hnutove, the HQ reads.

Three Ukrainian soldiers were injured over the past 24 hours in Donbas.

According to the intelligence, one militant was eliminated, four more were wounded.

During the current day, the militants of the Russian occupation troops opened fire seven times at the Ukrainian positions near Krymske, Malynove, Novozvanivka, Troitske, Lebedynske and Shyrokyne. Heavy weapon was not applied, the message says.

On August 5, the militants opened fire 40 times in Donbas conflict zone, four of them  using banned heavy weapons.
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Page: 1 2 Massive Fast-moving brush fire near Trabuco Canyon, California LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 298165

08-07-2018 04:38 AM











Post: #16 RE: Massive Fast-moving brush fire near Trabuco Canyon, California

Advertisement Probably all kinds of entrepreneurs trying to get thru to commies allowing them to responsibly log sensitive areas but they are forgetting their main goal is to cripple and disenfranchise the people. Archangel

Michael

User ID: 441975

08-07-2018 05:01 AM



Posts: 14,103









Post: #17 RE: Massive Fast-moving brush fire near Trabuco Canyon, California

President Trump said California is dumping water into the Pacific Ocean, we're not 'dumping water', we're trying to keep a few fish alive. Our rivers are their spawning grounds. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 371571

08-07-2018 07:09 AM











Post: #18 RE: Massive Fast-moving brush fire near Trabuco Canyon, California

WATCH LIVE: Trabuco Canyon Fire (CBS Los Angeles)

Brush fire that's burned roughly 75-100 acres in the Trabuco Canyon area of eastern Orange County .



Firefighters are calling it the Holy Incident , or the # HolyFire .





LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 371571

08-07-2018 07:10 AM











Post: #19 RE: Massive Fast-moving brush fire near Trabuco Canyon, California

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-07-2018 07:09 AM) WATCH LIVE: Trabuco Canyon Fire (CBS Los Angeles)

Brush fire that's burned roughly 75-100 acres in the Trabuco Canyon area of eastern Orange County .



Firefighters are calling it the Holy Incident , or the # HolyFire .







Streamed live 5 hours ago Streamed live 5 hours ago LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 371571

08-07-2018 07:28 AM











Post: #20 RE: Massive Fast-moving brush fire near Trabuco Canyon, California

Trump's Tweets On CA Wildfires

The president tweeted that if California didn't divert water into the ocean, it would be easier to fight the wildfires scorching areas of California.



Experts say that he's wrong and doesn't understand the issue.



Mr. president, a smart man as yourself knows he should do his homework - or have it done by an expert - before he tweets.



Your a slave of the words you tweet and master over the words you keep to yourself, Mr. President.





general mishka

lop guest

User ID: 441771

08-07-2018 06:59 PM











Post: #21 RE: Massive Fast-moving brush fire near Trabuco Canyon, California

4000 acres burned, 0% containment



Luckily there isn't a strong wind, so there is time before it can go down into the Lake Elsinore area LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 404077

08-08-2018 09:59 PM











Post: #22 RE: Massive Fast-moving brush fire near Trabuco Canyon, California

general mishka Wrote: (08-07-2018 01:43 AM) LoP Guest Wrote: (08-07-2018 01:03 AM) Grew up in the area. Worked on hand lines twice. True about the terrain! If it gets over to Modjeska, Black Star etc. it'll be a tough fight. Heilo in, heilo out.



Now, is anyone noticing or remembering past fires? We're just getting into rainy season so the worst part will be the mudslides & floods again. Anyone remember when the back of the fire dept got buried? I had walked out of the building 30 or 40 minutes before the hill came down. I have to ask. In all these years has the county, state, or feds done one thing to improve things? Remember all the fire breaks that helped to fight the fires? Any new ones? What happened to the old ones?

I was spending time there before Rancho Santa Margarita was fully developed, so I hope they made lots of fire breaks since. I always loved the Dove Canyon neighborhood when it was built, but thought it was a disaster waiting to happen I can remember when you went from where South Coast Plaza is now to MCAS El Toro and there was nothing but orange groves, avocados & asparagus fields and a little concrete building that belonged to So. Cal Edison. Was on a tour of the Irvine mansion two or three weeks before it burned down. If you're a history or mystery buff there's a lot of history and interesting info (family member killed under suspicious circumstances) involved there. Google up James Irvine family. I remember standing at Newport Blvd & 19th swatting away cinders from one of the fires up on Saddleback. THAT WAS SCARY!! I can remember when you went from where South Coast Plaza is now to MCAS El Toro and there was nothing but orange groves, avocados & asparagus fields and a little concrete building that belonged to So. Cal Edison. Was on a tour of the Irvine mansion two or three weeks before it burned down. If you're a history or mystery buff there's a lot of history and interesting info (family member killed under suspicious circumstances) involved there. Google up James Irvine family. I remember standing at Newport Blvd & 19th swatting away cinders from one of the fires up on Saddleback. THAT WAS SCARY!!
















Open source

Over the past 24 hours the militants reduced the number of firing provocations, but started using the mortar launchers of heavy calibers again, as Oleksandr Motuznyak, the Spokesperson of Ukraines Defence Ministry on JFO, as the briefing, 112.ua reported.

The militants performed seven attacks at the Ukrainian positions in Luhansk sector. The enemy was using grenade launchers of various calibers and small arms near Krymske, Luhanske, Pivdenne and Novgorodske. At around 11 pm the militants applied 82-mm mortar launcher near Novoluhanske.

Main battle actions were being conducted in Donetsk sector, as the representatives of the Ministry inform. In total, the militants performed 23 attacks over the past 24 hours having opened fire at night and continuing firing all the day. The defenders of Marinka, Lebedynske, Pavopil, Shyrokyne, Avdiivka and Vodyane came under fire from the machine guns and grenade launchers multiple times. Additionally, infantry fighting vehicle was applied near Hnutove, anti-tank guided missile  near Chermalyk. The enemy used 82-mm mortar launchers near Avdiivka and Lebedynske and 120-mm mortar launchers near Hnutove.

In total, the militants conducted 30 attacks on the confrontation line. The Ukrainian troops have opened fire 11 times as a response.

As a result of the battle actions, three Ukrainian military servicemen were wounded. For now, all of them are hospitalized, their condition is satisfactory.
Atlantic Council

Bloomberg recently ran an in-depth story titled, Four Years after Its Revolution, Ukraine Is Still a Mess. I cant argue with the headline, but it overlooks the many efforts and individuals who are still fighting to fix Ukraine. Three of those individuals engaged in the fight spent most of July in Washington, DC, as James Denton Transatlantic Fellows at the Center for European Policy Analysis, gaining skills and contacts that will help them continue to press for reform in Ukraine.



No one is going to do it if I dont act, said Mykhailo Zhernakov, director of the Kyiv-based DEJURE Foundation and a Denton fellow. With spiky dirty blond hair and light blue eyes, Zhernakov is one of Kyivs most recognized experts on judicial reform. Hes a former judge who quit when the Euromaidan broke out, so he speaks with authority.



I saw that you can do more for rule of law as an expert than by being on the bench, Zhernakov said.



A board member at the Reanimation Package of Reforms, the coalition linking more than eighty nongovernmental organizations, Zhernakov has helped lead the fight to transform Ukraines courts.



Hes not happy with the outcome. President Petro Poroshenko promised to massively overhaul the countrys judicial system with much fanfare, but so far, the results havent been promising. Much ado about nothing, Zhernakov said.

Read the original text here.
The Head of the State is convinced that the Kremlin will try to interfere the elections

Ukraines President Petro Poroshenko entrusted the National Security and Defence Council to have a separate session on counterwork Russian interference in the elections. He wrote it on his Facebook page.

Next year, us, Ukraine, and many other our partners will face important elections defining the speed and the quality of our development and cooperation towards midterm. Kyiv, Brussels, Washington and most of the Western capitals have no doubts that the Kremlin prepares a large-scale interference in the election process to break the European unity and solidarity with Ukraine which is dangerous for the aggressor and to divide the Transatlantic Alliance and support the populist, nationalist and Euro-skeptic political forces. We have agreed to coordinate our efforts and cooperate on every level with the EU and US leaders. I entrust the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine to hold a separate session on counterwork the interference in the elections, he noted.

Poroshenko added that he was convinced that our state would prepare and would counterwork any Russias interference in the elections process regardless of what it would be  a cyber-attack or a disinformation campaign.

Earlier, we reported that Petro Poroshenko went to the territory of the EU in a private trip on July 29  August 5.
They were judged and sentenced for transporting illegal migrants; over July, 33 sailors managed to return back to Ukraine, thanks to the efforts of diplomats

Open source

Over two hundred Ukrainian sailors are now held in custody in Greece and Italy. State Secretary for Ukraines Foreign Ministry Andriy Zayets said that at a briefing on Tuesday. As of June, there were 151 Ukrainian sailors in Greece, 98 of them were detained for transporting illegal migrants.

Over a hundred Ukrainian citizens are now held in Italian prisons, judged for the same kind of violation.

In July, 33 sailors who faced tough conditions abroad managed to return back home thanks to the efforts of Ukrainian diplomats.

Ealier, on July 31, fifteen members of the crew of the Free Neptune ship returned to Ukraine from Oman. This was reported by the Marine Transport Workers Trade Union of Ukraine (MTWTU) on Facebook.

"15 members of the Free Neptune crew who have been in the Sultanate of Oman on board of this ship since summer of 2016 because of delays in wages payment by the ship-owner, returned to Ukraine today," the message says.

It is noted that all marines have been assisted by ITF (International Transport Workers' Federation), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (in particular, the Consulate of Ukraine in Saudi Arabia), as well as the flag administration of Liberia and the local agent.
According to Edgars Rinkevics, Latvian Foreign Minister, Europe made a mistake failing to prevent the Russian aggression against Georgia

Edgars Rinkevics, Latvian Foreign Minister, stated that now Ukraine and Georgia are fighting for independence and security in Europe, as Polskie Radio reported.

Things happened in Georgia in 2008 and then in Ukraine convince us that we must do everything to prevent it, he stated.

He also said that the international law and order was violated in Georgia ten years ago and the world has to remember that.

Yesterday, Ukraines Foreign Ministry called Russia for withdrawing the troops from the occupied territories in Georgia and take steps to demilitarize and de-occupy these territories.

Today, on August 7, we reported that Ukraines President Petro Poroshenko entrusted the National Security and Defence Council to have a separate session on counterwork Russian interference in the elections.

Poroshenko added that he was convinced that our state would prepare and would counterwork any Russias interference in the elections process regardless of what it would be  a cyber-attack or a disinformation campaign.
Open source

Greeces Foreign Ministry summoned Andrey Maslov, the Russian Ambassador, after Russia had decided to expel 13 Greek diplomats, as Ekathimerini reports.

It is noted that he was announced about a demarche because of Russias actions against Greece.

Greece's Foreign Ministry summoned the Russian Ambassador to the country, Andrey Maslov, to protest Moscow's decision on Monday to expel Greek diplomats in retaliation to a similar move by Athens, the news agency reports.

It should be noted that Moscow did not name the expelled Greek diplomats and did not say when they were asked to leave the country.

Yesterday, on August 6, Andreas Friganas, Greece Ambassador in Russia was called to the MFA of the Russian Federation to be informed about retaliatory measures in response to the expelling of the Russian diplomats by Athens.

Reportedly, the Greece government sent off two Russian diplomats and banned the entrance for another two officials due to the threat of the National Security. Russians are blamed with attempts to meddle with Greece's internal affairs and the illegal activity, which undermines the basics of the national security.
The Russian investigators say that as a result of the attacks civilians were injured and gas pipelines were damaged

Open source

The Russian Investigation Committee initiated three more criminal proceedings against the Ukrainian military servicemen, as the press office of the service reports.

The Ukrainian army was accused of attacking at the civil objects and damaging the infrastructure on the occupied territories of Luhansk and Donetsk regions.

The Central Investigation Administration of the Russian Investigation Committee determined additional evidence of the Ukrainian military conducting artillery attacks at the populated areas of self-proclaimed Luhansk and Donetsk regions, as a result of which civilians get injured. Therefore, three more criminal proceedings were opened into an offence under the article of the Russian Criminal Code on using banned means and methods of conducting a war, the Investigative Committee reports.

The message says that the Ukrainian military servicemen were allegedly firing at Olenivka near Dokuchaievsk and Syhnalne not far from Donetsk. As a result of this, two local residents in 1953 and 1962 were wounded.

In addition, charges are pressed concerning damaging or destruction of more than 150 civilian objects, including the areas with gas pipelines in Donetsk, Horlivka and Dokuchaievsk.

For now, an investigation is underway. It is aimed at defining the officials among the Ukrainian military servicemen involved in the commission of these crimes, the representatives of the Investigation Committee inform.

Earlier, the Russian Investigation Committee reported that several criminal proceedings against the Ukrainian military servicemen were opened. They were accused of allegedly attacking the civilians in Donbas.
His mother finally managed to talk to him on the phone, after numerous denials by Russian officials

Stanislav Klykh, the Ukrainian political prisoner in Russia was transferred from the hospital to the penal colony, where he serves time under trumped-up charges. Lyudmyla Denisova, the Ukrainian ombudswoman posted this on Facebook.

Klykh's mother finally managed to talk to him on the phone, after numerous denials by Russian officials.

'Stanislav said that they drugged him with psychotropics, so he wasn't sure how it would affect his conditions in the future. According to Tamara (mother's name, - 112 International), Stanislav seems well-adjusted, he complains about his kidneys hurting - most likely, after an injury', the Ombudswoman wrote.

Stanislav Klykh has been at Magnitogorsk hospital since late June. He said he never agreed on taking him to the hospital.

Klykh was detained in Russia in September 2014, when he came to Russia to visit his pregnant girlfriend.

The Russian jury said Klykh and another Ukrainian political activist, Mykola Karpyuk both allegedly joined the Viking unit, which fought on the side of Chechen nationalists as they sought independence from Russia in the 1990s. The jury accused Karpyuk and Klykh of killing and wounding dozens of Russian servicemen. Klykh was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
This is the first precedent that Ukrainian law enforcers detain someone under such charges; the convict is already in custody and has no right for a bail

Open source

The precedent took place in the history of legal practice in Ukraine; a man was arrested under charges of animal abuse. The case is observed in Odessa, southern Ukraine. Ruslan Forostyak, the advisor of the chief of the local police branch posted this on Facebook.

The court elaborated immediately and served the convict with charges; due to its verdict, the convict is already in custody and has no right for a bail.

According to Forostyak, thus, the court granted the request filed by the police. However, the initiative actually belonged to the local community of animal rights activists, who asked the law enforcers to take action, as animal abusers were not duly punished before. 'This (the criminal case, - 112 International) became possible thanks to the pressure applied by animal rights activists and their cooperation with the law enforcers in this area, as well as positions of the local prosecutor's office. I'd like to tell the animal rights activists that we lived up to the promises we gave during the rally near the office of the National Police HQ', he said.

In 2016, animal rights activists protested against the inactivity of law enforcers in this particular field. They brought bodies of poisoned dogs to the office, thus urging the police to boost their efforts to punish dog hunters.

As we reported, over the first six months of the year, the Ukrainian police registered 154 cases under the fact of animal abuse. The majority of those were opened in Kyiv and Sumy region, northern Ukraine; Prosecutor General's Office reported that in the official request filed by UNN news agency.

According to the authority, in June and July, 15 cases were initiated in Kyiv alone; two of those are now closed. Another two of ten cases are closed in Sumy region; the rest are being investigated. In general, 57 cases were closed all over Ukraine during the said period.

Not a single documented case of animal abuse was reported in Khmelnytsky region, central Ukraine; one case was opened in each of the five following regions - Zhytomyr, Luhansk, Chernihiv, Ternopil and Chernivtsi.
The participants of the music festival made a word FREE with torches

A flashmob in support of the Ukrainian political prisoners held in Russia took place at Bandershtat Festival in Lutsk on August 3-5.

As it was reported on the page of the festival on Facebook, after the Tartak performance, participants of the music festival made word FREE with torches.

FREE is our support for the Ukrainians illegally imprisoned by the aggressor-country. Thank you, Bandershtat for joining our patriotic flashmob, it is amazing, the message says.

As it was reported earlier, Ukrainian movie director Oleg Sentsov was sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment. He announced a hunger strike on May 14 to demand to release all the Ukrainian political prisoners.

On July 19, BoomBox, a Ukrainian band, had a free concert on the administrative board with the occupied Crimea. The stage was set for the performance at Kalanchak checkpoint. The members of the band unfolded a poster with a sign Free Sentsov, Free Crimea and sang Naodyntsi (alone in English, - ed).
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Searches are being conducted in the offices of Tut.by and BelTA

Open source

The Belarusian Investigation Committee reported on the detention of three journalists suspected in hacking a website of a state news agency BelTa, as the website of the service reports.

The detainees are Maryna Zolotova, Chief Editor in online news agency Tut.by, Anna Kaltyhyna, news editor in Tut.by and Tatyana Korovenkova, the journalist in BelaPAN agency.

Multiple evidence of illegal access to the computer data, which belongs to BelTA were determined. Over two years (2017-2018) more than 15,000 illegal logins to the data stored in the computer system of the enterprise were performed without the permission of the unitary national enterprise, the message says.

According to Radio Liberty, the law enforcers came to conduct a search in Tut.by office at 7 am. They have taped up a few floors of Omega Tower business center. According to the witnesses, the law enforcers are seizing documents, several people were summoned for questioning to the Investigation Committee.

Searches also started in BelaPAN agency, as the workers of nn.by report.

Radio Liberty informed that a search is being held in Korovensovas house.

It should be noted that Tut.by is a big independent Belarusian online-portal covering 42% of all Internet-users in Belarus.

Earlier, the Belarusian mass media made public the information that President Alexander Lukashenko has allegedly suffered a stroke.
Yuriy Vitrenko, Ukraines Charge d'Affaires in UN, stressed that Russia had some obligations under the international law to the population in Crimea, Donbas, Abkhazia and South Ossetia

Yuriy Vitrenko, Ukraines Charge d'Affaires to UN, during the events dedicated to the 10th anniversary of the beginning of the Russian-Georgian war, urged to enhance pressure on Russia for its aggression, as Ukrinform reports.

The international community should combine the diplomatic tools with more powerful targeted sanctions and with the isolation of the Russian political leaders and oligarchs. After all, we all know that the Russian regime understands only the language of force, the Ukrainian representative stated.

He has also called UN for being more active when solving the conflicts, initiated by Russia in Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova and other places.

Despite the relevant schemes existing, such as the Geneva International Discussions, the Normandy format or the Trilateral Contact Group, UN Security Council and the General Assembly should show a much stronger position concerning the conflicts and enhance pressure on Russia, the Ukrainian diplomat stressed.

According to him, a consistent and consolidated policy of the international community concerning the Russian occupation and annexation should remain the most important thing to provide a peaceful solution of the conflicts in the region and in the world.

De-occupation of the Georgian and Ukrainian territories, cancellation of the recognition of the so-called independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia and fulfilment of all other obligations under agreements in force, Vitrenko noted.

Ukraines Foreign Ministry urged Russia to withdraw troops from the occupied territories in Georgia and take measured to demilitarize and de-occupy these territories on August 6.
A hybrid form of yoga that combines traditional yoga postures with modern yoga moves and a silk hammock. Pre-registration required.

Please note: Aerial Yoga at the Yoga Art Space studio requires pre-registration through our website at www.YogaArtSpace.com/calendar. If no one registers for a class, the class may be cancelled between 6-12 hours prior to the class start time. Though this event is shown as a regular, weekly class each week on the Alabi calendar, there are occasionally times when the class will be cancelled in advance such as for certain holidays. All updates and cancellations are on the studio calendar at www.YogaArtSpace.com/calendar.

What is Aerial yoga?

Aerial Yoga is a hybrid form of yoga that combines traditional yoga postures infused with modern yoga moves and an silk fabric hammock.

Do I need Previous Yoga Experience?

No previous yoga experience is not necessary to enjoy an Aerial yoga class. In fact it can be easier than normal yoga! The silk hammock acts like a support whenever you require it, almost like having your own personal yoga teacher giving you assistance throughout the entire yoga class! Another advantage of having the support of the hammock is that 90% of students are able to complete more challenging poses, such as handstands!

Can Everybody do Aerial Yoga?

Yes and no. Students who have had a previous injury can find Aerial yoga much easier to participate in then normal yoga. This is due to the the weight being evenly distributed between your body, the hammock and the earth.

People who suffer any of following contraindications are advised NOT to participate in an Aerial yoga class: if you have had recent surgery of any sort, if you suffer glaucoma, if you are pregnant, if you suffer a heart condition (including very high or low blow pressure), if you get vertigo, if you have had a recent stroke or a hernia, if you have osteoporosis or any bone weakness, if you have carpal tunnel syndrome, or if you have had botox in the last six hours.

What Should I Wear?

All jewellery items must be removed before participating, a t-shirt must be worn to cover the armpit area and leggings are advised to avoid the silk rubbing on the skin and creating irritation. Please have clean feet or, alternatively, bring a pair of socks with you.
Nature At Its Best

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!)
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Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455260

08-07-2018 05:36 PM











Post: #1 Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

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The sites doing the banning are all weaponized military Intel platforms. So is MTV believe it or not.



Most people don't realize that US and UK broadcasters can have their satellite feeds cut by the military if they don't play ball. It's totally legal under current law. Since 9-11 actually.



The throttling of infowars is a sure sign of war preparations. The junta only wants their side of the War to get out.The sites doing the banning are all weaponized military Intel platforms. So is MTV believe it or not.Most people don't realize that US and UK broadcasters can have their satellite feeds cut by the military if they don't play ball. It's totally legal under current law. Since 9-11 actually.The throttling of infowars is a sure sign of war preparations. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455260

08-07-2018 05:38 PM











Post: #2 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

Military super pissed that Jones was one of the first to report that all Trump's Tomahawks missed Assad. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 454622

08-07-2018 05:49 PM











Post: #3 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

I highly doubt the US can totally cut the UK off unless the US attacks all of the UK controlled satellites in orbit, the UK has been one of the leaders in low obit satellites, the create constellations even for China, it uses the US, EU, India and Russia to launch from, so spectrum wise it has control of a number outside the control of the US, like Chinas DMC (Disaster Monitoring Constellation) which where built by Britain and launched in India (which the UK has poured a lot of cash into) to maintain UK control of the tech, the feeds to China are UK ones leased to China.



So I would expect that while the US could shut down a large proportion of UK satellite feeds that go through US controlled spheres it is not totally dependent on the US and I highly doubt the US would attack the UK just to shut down those feeds just to attack Iran... but hey, who knows with Americans.. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455260

08-07-2018 05:59 PM











Post: #4 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-07-2018 05:49 PM) I highly doubt the US can totally cut the UK off unless the US attacks all of the UK controlled satellites in orbit, the UK has been one of the leaders in low obit satellites, the create constellations even for China, it uses the US, EU, India and Russia to launch from, so spectrum wise it has control of a number outside the control of the US, like Chinas DMC (Disaster Monitoring Constellation) which where built by Britain and launched in India (which the UK has poured a lot of cash into) to maintain UK control of the tech, the feeds to China are UK ones leased to China.



So I would expect that while the US could shut down a large proportion of UK satellite feeds that go through US controlled spheres it is not totally dependent on the US and I highly doubt the US would attack the UK just to shut down those feeds just to attack Iran... but hey, who knows with Americans..

They will do it because they are the backbone of the EU sat com's. When the junta wants war, they will do anything to get their war. They will do it because they are the backbone of the EU sat com's. When the junta wants war, they will do anything to get their war. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 454622

08-07-2018 06:02 PM











Post: #5 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-07-2018 05:59 PM) LoP Guest Wrote: (08-07-2018 05:49 PM) I highly doubt the US can totally cut the UK off unless the US attacks all of the UK controlled satellites in orbit, the UK has been one of the leaders in low obit satellites, the create constellations even for China, it uses the US, EU, India and Russia to launch from, so spectrum wise it has control of a number outside the control of the US, like Chinas DMC (Disaster Monitoring Constellation) which where built by Britain and launched in India (which the UK has poured a lot of cash into) to maintain UK control of the tech, the feeds to China are UK ones leased to China.



So I would expect that while the US could shut down a large proportion of UK satellite feeds that go through US controlled spheres it is not totally dependent on the US and I highly doubt the US would attack the UK just to shut down those feeds just to attack Iran... but hey, who knows with Americans..

They will do it because they are the backbone of the EU sat com's. When the junta wants war, they will do anything to get their war.

Why do you think both the EU and UK are setting up their own systems, the arguments that Britain wants it's own so that the US and EU won't be able to cripple their battlefield abilities, and the EU want it for the same reasoning... which is why the UK is going as far as looking at launch platforms within the UK (it has been using India a lot) as have the EU, though most of that is base on UK tech... should be an interesting future as it says a huge amount that allies want to be able to have their own independent systems, kinda scream a lack of trust all round really... Why do you think both the EU and UK are setting up their own systems, the arguments that Britain wants it's own so that the US and EU won't be able to cripple their battlefield abilities, and the EU want it for the same reasoning... which is why the UK is going as far as looking at launch platforms within the UK (it has been using India a lot) as have the EU, though most of that is base on UK tech... should be an interesting future as it says a huge amount that allies want to be able to have their own independent systems, kinda scream a lack of trust all round really... LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455260

08-07-2018 06:05 PM











Post: #6 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

Many dumb fake libs and fake leftys all thing the bans are because of blacks or gays pressure. Not at all. It's about the wars over there.



When you see a anti-Trump, anti-cop or anti-White hate protest... YOU ARE ACTUALLY WATCHING A PRO-WAR PROTEST.



Just like when you see photos or videos that purport to be ISIS or some terror group, you are actually seeing US and NATO special army forces.



Most of you have the complete opposite take on reality. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455036

08-07-2018 06:06 PM











Post: #7 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

OK About Trump's Tomahawks!



They Hit Chemical Weapons Manufacturing Plants 3 days

Before UN and Nato Inspection!



The Tomahawks Were Not Targeting Assad.



The GOAL was Obviously To Help the Russians and ASSAD

Cover Up Evidence of Chemical Weapons Manufacturing!



No Factories or Manufacturing Facilities to Inspect!

BOOM BOOM Proof all Gone Gone!

Boo Hoo Hoo! LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455260

08-07-2018 06:22 PM











Post: #8 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

When Trump, Israel and UK attack Iran, this thread make more sense to many of you who are slow on the uptake.



All the media who would attempt to be unbiased, will have been pre-banned because of 'hate'... Thus, you will understand the key role than fake left plays in brainwashing people to support the military junta that undergrids the entire warfare state.



The welfare state washes the hand of the warfare state. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455260

08-07-2018 06:24 PM











Post: #9 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-07-2018 06:06 PM) OK About Trump's Tomahawks!



They Hit Chemical Weapons Manufacturing Plants 3 days

Before UN and Nato Inspection!



The Tomahawks Were Not Targeting Assad.



The GOAL was Obviously To Help the Russians and ASSAD

Cover Up Evidence of Chemical Weapons Manufacturing!



No Factories or Manufacturing Facilities to Inspect!

BOOM BOOM Proof all Gone Gone!

Boo Hoo Hoo!

That wasn't even a good try.



That wasn't even a good try. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455036

08-07-2018 06:30 PM











Post: #10 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-07-2018 06:24 PM) LoP Guest Wrote: (08-07-2018 06:06 PM) OK About Trump's Tomahawks!



They Hit Chemical Weapons Manufacturing Plants 3 days

Before UN and Nato Inspection!



The Tomahawks Were Not Targeting Assad.



The GOAL was Obviously To Help the Russians and ASSAD

Cover Up Evidence of Chemical Weapons Manufacturing!



No Factories or Manufacturing Facilities to Inspect!

BOOM BOOM Proof all Gone Gone!

Boo Hoo Hoo!

That wasn't even a good try.



Jesus H Christ Ima Just a Mechanic But its Obvious to even ME!

Un and Nato inspections were scheduled 3 days later and there

was nothing left to inspect!



Citizen Comrade Trumpski BLEW the F#CK out of all the Evidence!

Nothing left to inspect!

Boo hoo hoo!

Jesus H Christ Ima Just a Mechanic But its Obvious to even ME!Un and Nato inspections were scheduled 3 days later and therewas nothing left to inspect!Citizen Comrade Trumpski BLEW the F#CK out of all the Evidence!Nothing left to inspect!Boo hoo hoo! LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 455260

08-07-2018 07:41 PM











Post: #11 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran

LoP Guest Wrote: (08-07-2018 05:36 PM) The junta only wants their side of the War to get out.



The throttling of infowars is a sure sign of war preparations. LoP Guest

lop guest

User ID: 453397

08-07-2018 07:44 PM











Post: #12 RE: Military behind intrnet 'bans' in run up to attack on Iran





Excellent thread op.
















Samsung Philippines Electronics Corp. recently dispatched several washing machines to help flood-affected families get their clothes cleaned through its free laundry services in Dagupan City, Pangasinan. On July 21, the city was placed under a state of calamity after experiencing continuous rains brought about by the southwest monsoon enhanced by Tropical Storm Inday. Disasters such as this recent typhoon leave families without access to proper facilities that lead to sanitation concerns, said Kevin Lee, Samsung Philippines Managing Director. We want to help the people of Dagupan to forge ahead in spite of this trying time. Through this act of service, we aspire to get them back on their feet right away, Lee added. With its commitment and corporate citizenship efforts to create positive change and give back to communities, Samsung aims to provide aide to over 1,000 families of the financial center of North Central Luzon.From Aug. 2 to 8, those affected by the floods used Samsung washing machines in front of the firms Customer Service Plaza, at the ground floor of the IMC Building, Barangay 2 & 3 Corner Nueva Rizal Street in Dagupan City. Samsung also offered a P5,000 discount of the total repair cost for owners of its refrigerators, washing machines, and televisions damaged by the flood. The passion to uplift peoples quality of life is deeply rooted in Samsung. We believe in making innovations that will answer the needs of our communities, Lee added. Lending a helping hand to disaster risk areas have been part of the continuous Samsung corporate citizenship efforts. Previously, through the Samsung Service Hope centers, victims of typhoons Ondoy (Ketsana) and Yolanda (Haiyan) were able to wash their clothes for free.
The Bureau of Immigration has ordered th e deportation of three foreigners who were arrested in separate occasions at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport for using bogus documents. BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said Monday the foreigners were found using spurious travel papers which they presented to immigration officers at the airport who were about to leave for Canada. BI OIC Deputy Commissioner and Port Operations Division chief Marc Red Marinas identified those arrested as Moustapha Harry Dicko, a Mali national; Gabriel Martinez Mendoza, a Mexican; and Joynul Islam, a Bangladeshi. We are alarmed by what appears to be a proliferation in the use of fraudulent travel documents by foreigners who attempt to enter or exit our country, the BI chief said. Morente had instructed BI-Naia personnel to double their vigilance to put a stop to these individuals attempting to travel illegally, Marinas said all three passengers were immediately brought to BI jail in Taguig City after they were intercepted on separate occasions at the Naia last week. They will be deported and placed in our blacklist so they wont be able to re-enter the Philippines, he said.Islam was arrested Aug. 1 at the NAIA 2 terminal for having a fraudulently acquired electronic travel authority (ETA) as he was about to depart for Canada while Martinez Mendoza was intercepted at NAIA 1 a few hours later when the biopage of his Mexican passport was found to be altered. The following day Dicko was apprehended at the NAIA 3 when he tried to leave for Indonesia with a tampered Mali passport. Our Immigration Officers undergo rigorous trainings on document assessment and fraud detection, and we have also upgraded our technologies to better detect cases of fraud, said Morente. Let this latest string of apprehensions serve as a warning. Schemes like this will not pass, he said. Vito Barcelo
SEOULNorth Korea on Tuesday released a South Korean who was arrested after crossing the border last month, Seouls unification ministry said, welcoming the humanitarian gesture. The North told the South Monday of its decision to release the man, who was detained for crossing into the country on July 22, the ministry said in a statement. Our side received a South Korean national surnamed Seo, born in 1984, through Panmunjom from the North at 11:00 am (0200 GMT) on Tuesday, the ministry said, referring to the truce village in the Demilitarized Zone dividing the two countries. The government positively appreciates the repatriation... which was made on humanitarian grounds, it said without elaborating. Relations between North and South have improved markedly following a summit between their leaders in April. An unidentified ministry official told Yonhap news agency the man was currently being questioned by South Korean authorities.We have to investigate to know why he went to the North and how he got there, the official said. Apart from Seo, Pyongyang since 2013 has detained six South Koreansthree Christian missionaries and three defectors originally from the Northand Seoul has been pushing for their release. The nuclear-armed regime released three US detainees in May in an apparent goodwill gesture before a summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump in Singapore. Since the Singapore summit in June, relations have improved between the US and North Korea but progress on denuclearization has been slow, with Washington urging the need to maintain tough sanctions against Pyongyang.
Saudi Arabia has bolstered its position in the new diplomatic spat with Canada as the national carrier Saudia Airlines announced Monday it was putting halt to flights operated by the company to the Canadian city of Toronto.

The move came after the kingdom on Sunday cut off ties with North American country and froze all trade and business transaction with Ottawa. Saudi Arabia angrily dismissed Canadas call to release all civil rights activists detained in prison.

Riyadh termed the call interference in its domestic affairs and blatant violation of basic international norms and all international protocols. It also ordered the Canadian envoy to the kingdom to leave within 24 hours and recalled its ambassador posted in Ottawa.

The Canadian foreign ministry on Friday in a Twitter post said it was concerned about additional arrests of civil society and womens rights activists in #SaudiArabia, including Samar Badawi. It also called for the immediate release of the detainees.

Samar Badawi; sister of Saudi blogger jailed dissident Raif Badawi, who was arrested last week along with another female prominent activist. They have been hauled in prison where a dozen of other high profile female activists who called for the removal of the ban on women rights to drive and the man guardianship system of the kingdom, have been kept.

Hundreds of outspoken individuals including journalists, scholars and clerics have been arrested in a crackdown on dissents.

In another move underlining its position, the kingdom also on Monday said it will relocate Saudi students studying in Canada. State-run media also brought the kingdoms decision to stop training, scholarship and fellowship programs in Canada. 7,000 Saudi nationals among them 2,000 students are currently living in Canada. The students will be moved to other countries; mostly the U.S. and UK, according to the education ministry.

The US and UK will get the lions share, given their size and the education opportunities there, and weve begun coordinating with the missions there, said Jassem al-Harbash who is an official at the ministry.

Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Singapore are also likely to welcome the uprooted students.

Canada in response to the Saudi strong reaction said it will always stand up for human rights in Canada and around the world, and womens rights are human rights.

The Canadian foreign minister Chrystia Freeland also regretted the Saudi decision to remove students from the North American country as result of the diplomatic showdown.

It would be a shame for those students if they are deprived of the opportunity to study here, she told reporters.
Son of Bahrains top opposition figure, who has been in jail in since 2011, has called on authorities to provide medical care to his sick and frail 70-year old father.

Ali Mushaima, also an activist is staging protest outside the Bahraini embassy in London as he seeks international pressure on his country authorities to provide medical attention to his father Hassan Mushaima who is jailed in prison following his condemnation to life imprisonment in 2012 after he was arrested for fueling anti-government protest at the heart of the 2011 regional uprising known as Arab Spring.

Ali has been on hunger strike and has been camping since August 1 outside the Bahraini diplomatic mission in London. The activist who has been in the UK since 2006 after fleeing his country where has been sentenced to 45 years in prison, said the protest was his last resort following failed several attempts to attract national and international attention on the situation of his dying father, The New Arab reports.

I wrote to MPs and I contacted different human rights organizations but nothing has changed, he said.

I decided to raise my fathers case and show the world how the Bahraini government treats its people. Im tired but I am strong, my heart is strong and my mind is strong. I will continue until my father gets his basic rights.

He told Reuters that his father is being denied medical care. Ali told the news agency that his father had been treated for cancer several years ago, and needed regular check-ups to ensure the disease had not returned. The jailed opposition figure also suffered from high blood pressure, diabetes and a urinary tract infection.

Ali also accused prison authorities of refusing to replenish medicine supply to his father. They also denied health checkups to his father. The 70-year old sick man needs a scan every six months because of his diagnosed called lymphoma, his son pointed out.

The Bahraini embassy in London last week told Reuters that arrangement have been made so that Hassan attend the medical scans but refused last year to show up in front doctors .

Ali rejected the embassys claims, saying that is father has refused to see doctors or meet family and relatives with handcuffs around his hands shackles on his feet.

Several other political activists are being held in inhuman condition along Alis father. Human rights groups including Amnesty International condemned the imprisonment of opposition figures whom they refer to as peaceful activists and prisoners of conscience.
German peacekeepers from MINUSMA, the United Nations Mission in Mali have embarked on a mission to patrol the road of death, searching for clues of explosive devices.

Located in the southwest of Gao, in the middle of the savannah, the road is one of the most dangerous in the war-stricken northern region of the West African nation.

Today, we want to collect data for our road atlas, because we need to know where the vulnerable areas of the road are, said German Lieutenant, Mickael Weckbach.

Around 875 German troops are currently taking part in the 13,000 strong UN peacekeeping mission in Mali (MINUSMA), aimed at stabilizing the country and supporting a peace agreement between the government and rebels.

Germany has a sizable presence at the UN base in Gao that includes a detachment of NH-90 helicopters, bolstered by several similar aircraft from Belgium, for evacuating injured peacekeepers from the field.

In addition to the UN mission, Germany has about 350 soldiers based in the southern Mali as part of an EU training mission for the Malian army. The German mission has a robust mandate that includes permission to use force.

Note that Mali is considered one of the worlds most dangerous UN missions, with more than 130 blue helmets killed in the past four years, including two German pilots.

Chad, Mauritania, Mali, Niger and Burkina Fasoknown as the G5are setting up a 5,000-strong combined force to combat smuggling and extremist groups in the Sahel region.

Separately, France has about 4,000 French soldiers in Mali that are part of a larger counterterrorism and anti-smuggling operation in the region known as Barkhane.
Egypts security forces have killed about 52 suspected militants in recent days in the restive northern Sinai Peninsula, the military said in a statement on Sunday. At least 49 suspected militants have been also arrested during the operation, it said

According to the statement, the airstrikes destroyed 32 vehicles containing weapons and ammunition in the Western Desert and in the south. It also destroyed 26 hideouts and dismantled 64 explosive devices. 37 soldiers and 373 militants have been killed in the operation, which remains ongoing, it said.

Jihadists launched an insurgency in Sinai after the 2013 military overthrow of Egypts Islamist President Mohamed Morsi.

In November 2017, Islamic State set a record of horror in its terror attacks in Sinai. Dozens of members of the Sinai Province stormed the Al-Rawda mosque of the Jaririya Sufi, west of El-Arish, when it was filled with worshipers. More than 300 people were slaughtered in the worst attack in Egypts history.

Earlier this year, Egyptian President AbdelFattah al-Sissi and his armys senior commanders went on the offensive, particularly in Sinai. The army, having acquired significant reinforcements with Israels consent, launched its campaign, branded Comprehensive OperationSinai 2018.

Egyptian troops entered many villages and towns where Sinai Province had a strong presence, and cleansed them of Islamic State fighters.

Defeating Islamists and restoring security has been a promise of Sissi, who was re-elected in March.
The University of Legon, the oldest and largest of the thirteen Ghanaian public universities, has made history last weekend after it swore in its first woman chancellor, Mrs. Mary Chinery-Hesse.

The retired international civil servant who served for a decade as Deputy Director General of the International Labor Organization has replaced the Ex-United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan. The late was appointed Chancellor of the University of Ghana in 2009.

President Nana Akufo-Addo who attended Mrs Chinery-Hesses investiture on August 1, 2018, in the capital, Accra, said authorities had picked a perfect replacement for Kofi Annan at the helm of the 70 years old higher-education institution

Mrs. Chinery-Hesse is an alumnus of the University of Ghana. She was also awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa) by the University of Ghana in 1991. She has also received several prestigious awards and decorations including the Order of the Star of Ghana in 2006, and the Gusi Peace Prize for International Diplomacy and Humanitarianism in 2010.

She was a Member of the National Council for Higher Education from 1974 to 1980, the First African Female Resident Coordinator of United Nations (UN) System from 1981 to 1989 and the First Female Deputy Director General of the International Labor Organization. She has served in Geneva and Under-Secretary General of the United Nations from 1989 to 2000 and was the Chairperson of UN Consultative Committee on Programme Operational Questions.
International Military Drills as International Political Message

By Vladimer Napetvaridze

The multinational exercise Noble Partner 2018 has officially opened in Vaziani military airfield on August 1. The drill is annual, and it is intended to support and enhance Georgian military forces, together with the US and participating nations during a multinational training operation. Noble Partner 2018 is multinational military training, which held on the territory of Georgia for the fourth time, the motto of this study is "Strength through Partnership." For the first time, it took place in 2015, and Georgian and American soldiers took part in it.These drills are not just military exercises, but political messages too and it shows support of the U.S and other NATO member countries for Georgia. Each year The Noble Partner drills are growing larger comparing to the previous military exercises. If in 2015 it was initially presented only by the Georgian American soldiers, today there are over 3000 soldiers from 13 countries, among them are: 1300 Georgians and 1170 US soldiers, as well as 500 soldiers from UK, Germany, Estonia, France, Lithuania, Poland, Norway, Turkey, Ukraine, Azerbaijan and Armenia. Azerbaijanian and Armenian soldiers are taking part in joint military exercises because it is the first joint military exercise between Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan.In 2017, when military drills Agile Spirit 2017 took place in Georgia, Armenia at the last moment, without providing any detailed information refused to take part in it. Military experts assumed several reasons for it: Azerbaijan which is in tensed relation with Armenia was taking part in it, and the second assumption concerns the fact that Armenia is the member of Russia led Collective Security Treaty Organization, and there could have been a significant pressure on Armenia's decision to take part in NATO-backed military drill. But this year, Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, together with ten other states, are taking part in joint military drills Noble Partner 2018.As the Ministry of Defence reports, the goal of the multinational military exercises to improve skills in stability, defensive and offensive operations, increase interoperability between the armed forces of participating countries and contribute to the security of the Black Sea region.Georgia aspires to join the NATO, which could be the solution for the many external problems that the country faces. However, there are some terms to be fulfilled to join the alliance. All the Western-backed Military drills like Noble Partner and Agile Spirit, and joint military operations, are part of Georgian strategy to join NATO.Georgian Armed Forces participated in international peacekeeping missions since 1999. At different times Georgian militaries were involved in the following operations of NATO: Peacekeeping mission in Kosovo - KFOR-Kosovo Forces 1999-2008; Anti-terrorism mission operated in the Mediterranean - Active Endeavour- 2010-2016; ISAF  International Security Assistance Force. Afghanistan 2004 -2014; NRF  NATO Response Forces mission from 2015 -till now; Resolute Support - led training, advice and assist mission. Afghanistan from 2015  till today;Comparing to other NATO partner countries, Georgia is the most significant contributor in Afghan mission Georgia's aspiration towards NATO stays intact for many years, and this aspiration of the country to join the organization does not remain without the attention of international partners. Georgia is actively involved in international peacekeeping missions of NATO and beside this is carrying out reforms to fulfill all the criteria to join the alliance. On the other hand, Georgias aspiration and activity were reflected during the NATO Brussels summit in 2018, and the alliance member states declared that the country would join NATO; however, they have still not specified when.
Flooding Hits Georgias Black Sea Town Poti

By Tea Mariamidze

Heavy rain, which hit Georgias Black Sea coastal town of Poti at midnight on August 2, flooded the streets, first floors of the houses and shops and destroyed the infrastructure.As a result of the heavy rainfall, electricity has been cut off in the town, and the pumping stations stopped working for a few hours.However, as Poti Mayors Office reports, the electricity has been restored in the most of the town, adding the pumping works have also been resumed.Poti locals claim the flooding destroyed their furniture and electrical appliances. They ask the state for help.Poti Mayor Gocha Kurdgelia says the situation is stable at the moment. According to him, the City Hall will do its best to help the affected locals.The abundant rainfall was observed in the city. Electricity was suspended, causing the pumping stations to stop and the streets were flooded. A special commission has been set up, which will calculate the damage and the locals will be provided with proper assistance, "said the mayor.One of the affected Poti residents, Nanuli Nozadze says that the town often has the problem of flooding.Furniture and household items were destroyed. Our poultry also died. The disaster caused serious damage. We call on the Mayors Office to help us, she stated.The locals claim that the drainage system fails to work in the town, which does not let the excessive water and causes flooding. They ask the mayor to solve this problem too.Poti City Hall has announced they have developed a project that envisages construction of a new pumping station and arrangement of new water drainage system in the streets.The exact amount of the damage, inflicted to Poti, will be known when the special commission finishes examination of affected houses and infrastructure.
First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus A.Yeudachenka meets V.Shuglya and A.Elfimov

07-08-2018



On August 7, 2018 the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus, Andrei Yeudachenka, met with the General Honorary Consul of Belarus in Tyumen, V.Shuglya, and the Chair of the Presidium of the Public Foundation Revival of Tobolsk, A.Elfimov.





During the meeting, the parties discussed issues of Belarusian-Russian cooperation in the humanitarian sphere. A.Elfimov informed about the publication by the Foundation Revival of Tobolsk the three-volume edition Gospel of F.Dostoyevsky. Whereas that the roots of F.Dostoyevsky from Belarus are planned to transfer the above-mentioned edition in a unique design to the local literary museum in the village of Dostoevo, Ivanovo district, Brest region.



The sides confirmed the willingness to promote further development of humanitarian, trade and economic cooperation between the regions of Belarus and the Tyumen region of Russia.



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Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus A.Dapkiunas meets the Ambassador of Palestine

07-08-2018



On August 7, 2018 the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus, Andrei Dapkiunas, met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Palestine to the Republic of Belarus, Khalid Ariqat.

During the meeting, sides discussed the development of the situation around Palestine and the latest developments in the Middle East. The Deputy Minister and the Ambassador agreed that balanced and responsible measures of all sides carried out with respect to the principles of international law and the fundamental interests of neighbors and partners are extremely essential for the preservation and successful development of the peace process in the Middle East.

Special attention was paid to the possibilities for deepening cooperation between the two countries on the international arena. Belarusian and Palestinian diplomats exchanged views on a wide range of issues on the bilateral agenda, in particular, on the development of trade and economic cooperation aimed at significant increase of mutual trade and opportunities for promising trade and economic projects.



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Debbie Mucarsel-Powell began airing her first TV commercial Tuesday as she seeks to unseat Republican U.S. Rep. Carlos Curbelo in Congress.

Mucarsel-Powell, a Democrat who came to the U.S. from Ecuador as a teenager with her mother and three older sisters, is using the ad to introduce herself to Florida's 26th district, which stretches from West Dade to Key West.

I came to this country from Ecuador at 14, searching for a better life, she says in the ad. With hard work, I found it. So Ive always worked to give back. As associate dean at FIU [Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine], I helped those who couldn't afford health care get it.

Mucarsel-Powell's campaign said it made a "six-figure ad buy" on cable this month, with plans to continue running ads through the fall.

She faces a primary opponent in retired Navy Cmdr. Demetries A. Grimes, an underdog running a shoe-string campaign. But with $1.6 million raised through the beginning of July and the backing of House Democrats, Mucarsel-Powell is expected to face Curbelo in November.

Curbelo, who himself faces a nominal primary challenge from Souraya Faas, released a social media ad Tuesday. You can see his ad, first reported by POLITICO, here.

This article has been updated to correct previous information about Curbelo's ad. He is running a social media ad, not a commercial.
Via @AdamSmithTimes

When he ran unsuccessfully for U.S. Senate in 2010 Jeff Greene called Democratic primary rival Kendrick Meek corrupt and implied his mother, former U.S. Rep. Carrie Meek, was too. Former Congressman Meek was livid about what he called personal attacks on his mother.

Eight years later, Greene is airing an ad taking on another legendary name in Florida politics  Graham  over the family business's ties to a mall proposed for northwest Florida.
DeSantis, left and Putnam, right. [Times]

One day before the second (and final) debate between the two Republican candidates for Florida governor, they are pitted against each other over their positions on the recent killing of Markeis McGlockton  Florida's latest 'stand your ground' shooting.

Tuesday afternoon, Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam tweeted a statement defending Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri over his handling of the July 19 shooting, saying "the state attorney and Pinellas Sheriff Gualtieri have far more information on what took place in Clearwater."

"No wonder (zero) Florida sheriffs have endorsed him," he added in the body of the tweet, referring to his opponent, Congressman Ron DeSantis. Putnam has been endorsed by close to 50 sheriffs.

.@RonDeSantisFL should be ashamed of himself for siding with @TheRevAl and liberal Democrats in attacking Floridians' Second Amendment rights. No wonder 0 Florida sheriffs have endorsed him. pic.twitter.com/nsLRAKaK6y  Adam Putnam (@adamputnam) August 7, 2018

Then Putnam added an image to the tweet thread, portraying DeSantis on the same "side" as all five Democratic candidates for governor, as well as the national civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton. Sharpton came to Clearwater on Sunday to speak at St. John Primitive Baptist Church, where he accused Gualtieri and the state attorney of mishandling the case because of racial bias.

McGlockton, 28, was black and his shooter, 47-year-old Michael Drejka is white.

Your next Governor should stand up for you and defend your Second Amendment rights, not side with liberal elites to undermine them. #StandYourGround pic.twitter.com/1nZNsCG3el  Adam Putnam (@adamputnam) August 7, 2018

That's because DeSantis weighed in on the shooting on Monday in a statement that expressed his support for Florida's controversial law, which grants immunity to people who use force in self-defense if they fear for their lives. DeSantis, a military lawyer, also said Gualtieri had not "analyzed the law properly," and that the "stand your ground" law does not apply in this case.

Read more: Ron DeSantis adds to criticism of Pinellas Sheriff Gualtieri over stand your ground

It was widely thought by Republican insiders that this primary would get ugly. Tuesday was an example of that bitterness that is likely to persist until the primary on Aug. 28.

The July shooting happened during a heated dispute over a handicap-reserved parking space at a convenience store in Clearwater. Surveillance footage shows McGlockton shoving Drejka, who had been berating McGlockton's girlfriend over her use of the parking space. While on the ground, Drejka pulls out a gun and shoots McGlockton, who died shortly thereafter.

Gualtieri has been widely criticized for his decision not to arrest Drejka, citing the "stand your ground" law. Gualtieri's office has forwarded the case to the state attorney for review and it is still pending.

But DeSantis's position is shared by the National Rifle Association and some other Republicans. It's true that both McGlockton's family and Democrats have also criticized the handling of the case, but those candidates have also called for repealing the self-defense law altogether  which DeSantis opposes.

David Vasquez, spokesman for DeSantis's campaign, released a caustic statement on Putnam's tweet.

"Facing the end of his political career, Adam Putnam is no longer supporting the principles or the party that have done so much for him," Vasquez said. "He's committed to throwing away the last of his integrity on desperate, baseless lies that Floridians will remember him for."

Even conservative Parkland student Kyle Kashuv weighed in on Twitter, calling Putnam a "hack politician" who is "lying for a desperate, last second, attempt at not being embarrased in the polls."
Peru's Deputy Minister for Defense Policy and Alcopaz President Hernan Flores opened the meeting, whose main theme is "Training Innovation and Capacity Building in Complex Scenarios."

"We want to share more than a decade of regional experience in peacekeeping operations and the way civilian, police, and military components address challenges of integrated training in fields like terrorism , natural disasters, women participation , and capacity building," he pointed out.
According to the physician, Fujimori woke up abruptly last Sunday feeling a shortness of breath. Thus, he was transferred to the medical center.

At the healthcare center, the 80-year-old was evaluated by cardiologists more than once. His health condition improved by Tuesday morning.

His son  suspended Congressman Kenji Fujimori  arrived at the clinic on Monday night to visit him. According to media outlets, the eldest son, Hiro, also visited him yesterday.

As is known, Fujimori was granted a humanitarian pardon by ex-President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski on December 24, 2017. He had served 12 years of the 25-year sentence for the Barrios Altos and La Cantuta cases, which involved human rights abuses.
Thus, the Executive Branch is committed to working alongside the population to eradicate this scourge.

In this sense, the President highlighted the efforts undertaken at State-run Women Emergency Centers (CEM).

There are currently 245 of such establishments attached to health centers, and an additional 221 will be built by 2021.

El presidente @MartinVizcarraC participa de la inauguracion de la Tercera Reunion de la Conferencia Regional sobre Poblacion y Desarrollo de America Latina y el Caribe. #PoblacionALC #CRPD2018 pic.twitter.com/aRjLOs6SbI
It is clear that Trump has mostly done this to undo something Obama did, although he also very much likes pleasing the leaders of three of those nations,who have managed to get his ear. But it is not even obvious that the undoing of this agreement will actually help these nations, even though they clearly think so. The least important of them, Bahrain, might get a slight gain given that it is a majority Shia nation ruled by an oppressive Sunni elite. Maybe putting Iran under economic pressure will reduced Iranian support for restive Bahraini Shia. But then, maybe the Iranians will respond by increasing their support. Both the KSA and UAE view themselves as jousting with Iran in the Persian Gulf, although Iran has never invaded or militarily threatened either. They were not in danger, so they will not be better off. of course, the Saudis blame Iran for the success of the Houthi rebels in Yemen, where the Saudis have been heavily bombing for three years, killing many civilians. But most serious sources say that the Iranians support for the Houthis has been minimal in material terms, if not nonexistent. But given how low that is, even a worsened economic situation in Iran seems unlikely to make them halt that minimum aid, and mostly the Saudis are scapegoating the Iranians for their failure to defeat the Houthis.

Today, President Trumps promised abjuration of President Obamas hard-negotiated nuclear deal with Iran,the JCPOA, jointly agreed with Russia, China, UK, France, Germany, the EU, and the Security Council of the United Nations. All parties agree that Iran has held to the agreement, so Trumps move is completely internationally illegal. His move is supported by exactly four other nations on the planet, and only them: Israel, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain, a group that contains about 0.5% of the worlds population. Of course the percentage rises by a couple of percent when we add Trump supporters who applaud him keeping a campaign promise, even though most of them have no idea what this is really all about.

As for Israel, their main concern seems to be Iranian support for Hezbollah in Lebanon (and Syria) and Hamas in Gaza, although Hamas is a Sunni group. Based on Trumps own statement yesterday, these are the main things he seems to be concerned about. He wants Iranian support for those groups reduced. Maybe that will happen, but while in the past Hezbollah did carry out terrorist actiffset ons in many places (Buenos Aires, for example), it is a long time since describing them as terrorist has been at all accurate. They have long since become part of the ruling coalition in Lebanon. They have been tamed, but the Israelisare very unhappy that they were unable to outright defeat Hezbollah the last time they invaded Lebanon. But even if Iranian aid to them is reduced, it is unlikely that that would make much difference to an outcome id they were to reinvade Lebanon. And it should be kept in mind that prior to the 1982 Israeli invasion the Lebanese Shia were largely sympathetic to Israel, and there was no Hezbollah. Just as with Hamas that they encouraged to offset the more moderate PLO, so the Israelis are themselves responsible for the very existence of Hezbollah.

Now it must be recognized that Trumps reimposition of economic sanctions will have an impact on Iran. Even though none of the other nations in the JCPOA support Trumps move, his threat to ban any company violating the sanctions from operating in the US is forcing some major European companies to leave Iran if they have much larger dealings in the US, even if their governments disagee with their moves. The most prominent companies leaving Iran now are Total and Peugeot from France and Siemens from Germany, although apparently some smaller companies with little business in the US will continue. Another round of sanctions in November will target Iranian oil exports, although there is reason to believe many nations buying oil from Iran will continue to do so then. Nevertheless, for all its illegality, Trumps reimposition of sanctions will almost certainly damage the already struggling Iranian economy, with demonstrations against the regime periodically breaking out there.

Of course it would appear that what Trump and such aides as John Bolton and Mike Pompeo want, as well as the leaderships of the four nations listed above,is regime change in Iran. The short run reaction so far has been a rise in support for the moderate Rouhani government by its hardline opponents. As it is, the most likely outcome if the weakening economy weakens political support for the government will not be regime change but simply a takeover by the hardliners. This group contains many who never supported the JCPOA, and they may well then leave it and return to enriching uranium to a high level. This will increase the national security of any of those four nations? That it would not is seen by the support for the JCPOA given publicly by many retrired Israeli military and intelligence figures.

Needless to say, there has been heightened warlike rhetoric between Iranian and US leaders.I regret that Rouhani felt he had to indulge in the first round of this. Probably this is all just chest thumping noise, but it is clear that there are some among those four nations as well as in the US who would like the US to either bomb Iran or invade it. Given how much larger and more powerful it is than Iraq under Saddam Hussein, this looks extremely dangerous, in light of what a disaster the invasion of Iraq turned out to be. Of course, given that Iran is not involved in developing nuclear weapons and has remained in accord with the JCPOA, there is no such justification for such an invasion, which would probably end up creating major problems for the Gulf nations, if not Israel, although I think the Saudi leadership is too egomaniacally stupid and incompetent to figure this out.

Yet another irony is that if either through triggering some kind of successful democratic uprising that would overthrow the Islamic regime, or if one were to be installed a la Iraq after a successful invasion, this regime would demand to have civilian nuclear power, which is overwhelmingly supported by the Iranian population (although maybe aid to Hezbollah and Hamas would end). The opposition Greens, who were violently suppressed in 2009, supported civilian nuclear power. Iran has been working for it since Eisenhower initially provided US support for it in Iran to the Shah. In the end the outcome in terms of the nuclear issue, after who knows how much cost in lives and material, would be something like what we had with the JCPOA,a carefully monitored and controlled civilian nuclear program. But it is clear that Trump is not even thinking about any part of this aspect of the matter, so focused is he on scoring short run political points and pleasing a narrow set of allies against the vast majority of world opinion, as well as an agreement made by the US government.

I see little prospect this will end well and serious danger this could lead to a seriously bad outcome. I have said it before, and I say it again: abrogating the JCPOA with Iran is by far Donald J. Trumps worst foreign policy mistake, even as few Americans realize it yet.

Barkley Rosser
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Adult Day Services - The Oaks (Catholic Social Services)

/oaks

Provides respite for caregivers of adults (age 18 or older) with a cognitive, physical, or mental-health diagnosis. Stimulating activities in a safe environment are designed to maintain and/or improve social interactions and mental acuity. Contact for hours and fees. theoaks@csswashtenaw.org

2500 S. Main, Arbor Bridge Church [ map ]

(734) 662-4001



Aging & Caregiver Support Services (Jewish Family Services)

Support for caregivers of aging or ill loved ones. Information, referrals, introductions to facilities and service providers, monthly support groups and educational workshops. Older adult cultural competency training for caregivers. info@jfsannarbor.org

2245 S. State [ map ]

(734) 769-0209



Fresh Start Clubhouse

Intentional working community for adults living with mental illness. Promotes recovery and rehabilitation through opportunities for members to work, learn, and contribute their talents to a community of mutual support. Open to consumers of Washtenaw County Community Mental Health age 18 and older with a serious mental illness. Open Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Thurs. 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Call to schedule a tour. info@ freshstartclubhouse.org

2051 S. State [ map ]

(734) 929-9992



Fresh Start Clubhouse

Intentional working community for adults living with mental illness. Promotes recovery and rehabilitation through opportunities for members to work, learn, and contribute their talents to a community of mutual support. Open to consumers of Washtenaw County Community Mental Health age 18 and older with a serious mental illness. Open Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Thurs. 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Call to schedule a tour. info@freshstartclubhouse.org

2051 S. State [ map ]

(734) 929-9992



Just Us Club

Est. 32 years ago. Program for special-needs adults ages 18 & up includes music therapy, art lessons, exercise, and other recreational activities. $8/hour & up depending on level of care. Weekdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Respite care also 1-2 Sat. per month. Volunteer opportunities. msjston@aol.com

3132 Glazier Way (next door to Huron Hills Church) [ map ]





Volunteer Caregiver Respite (Catholic Social Services)

Trained volunteers provide respite assistance for Washtenaw County families caring for a older adult. Volunteers visit with the frail senior 2-4 hours/week. The caregiver or family member must be age 60 or older. No fee. csswashtenaw.org /vcr
YEREVAN, AUGUST 7, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian sent a letter of condolences to the family of Arsene Tchakarian, a devotee of the French Resistance movement, member of the Missak Manouchian Group, on the occasion of the latters death, the Presidential Office told Armenpress.

The letter says: The life path of the staunch fighter of the Manochian Group reflects the great tragedies of the 20th century and the spirit of fight for freedom and justice.

Facing the bitter fate of the survivor of the Armenian Genocide and the pain of the great losses of his people, he fought fascism with a group of like-minded people like him, and in the postwar years he fought for the restoration of historical justice until his death.

Arsene Tchakarians life experience teaches us how to remain committed to the idea, truth and humanitarianism.

Eternal glory to him and his fallen friends.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, AUGUST 7, ARMENPRESS. Russian Federal Security Service border guards in Armenia have arrested a man who illegally crossed the Armenian-Turkish border, the Russian Federal Security Service Border Guard department told Armenpress.

According to the preliminary check, the trespasser is a citizen of the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh.

He has been handed over to the Armenian law enforcement agencies.

The details of the incident are being clarified at the moment.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan
Matt Haggman was the first candidate in the Democratic primary for Florida's 27th congressional district to go on TV with an ad calling for the abolition of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

David Richardson is the first to do it in Spanish.

Richardson began airing a Spanish-language commercial Tuesday in which he condemns ICE. You can find where the Democrats in the race to replace the retiring U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen stand on abolishing ICE here.
YEREVAN, AUGUST 7, ARMENPRESS. Russia will not oppose restoring the diplomatic relations with Georgia and is ready to resume a full-fledged dialogue with the new Georgian leadership, Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said in an interview to Kommersant, TASS reported.

We are willing to develop relations with the new Georgian leadership, no matter the names or party affiliation. Diplomatic relations can be restored - we were not the ones who severed them anyway. If our Georgian colleagues are willing, we will not say no, the Russian PM said. Medvedev noted that the status of Abkhazia and South Ossetia is not the issue that will always define the relations between Russia and Georgia.

He reminded that there is a different government in Georgia now. [Former Georgian President Mikheil] Saakashvilis career in Georgia is most likely over, which is good for Georgia, as I see it, Medvedev said.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan




YEREVAN, AUGUST 7, ARMENPRESS. Consultation was held between Armenias minister of transport, communication and information technologies Ashot Hakobyan, Ambassador to Georgia Ruben Sadoyan, Consul General to Rostov-on-Don Vardan Asoyan and the Russian partners at the Russian side of the Upper Lars border checkpoint, the Armenian transportation ministry told Armenpress.

During the meeting the situation in the Upper Lars and the main causes of major traffic jam were discussed.

The Russian partners presented some statistics, stating that compared to the data of 2017, the use of the checkpoint by passenger vehicles and tourists has increased by 50% this year. According to predictions, this increase will continue in the future.

According to the rules of procedure, the Lars checkpoint has a design passport, based on which it should serve a maximum of 170 trucks, 3000 individuals daily, but as of August 5, 500 trucks and 15.000 persons have been served.

The Armenian ministry said the Russian partners informed that two weeks ago a group of Russian officials held a consultation at the checkpoint, expressing their concerns over this situation. As a result, they made a decision that all concerned agencies must present proposals within a short period of time aimed at increasing the capacity also given the geographical position of the checkpoint. According to them, some rules of procedures must be updated and engineering solutions must be provided.

The Armenian authorities, by using the current relations between the two countries, will try to find out what prospective solutions the Russian partners are going to implement.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, AUGUST 7, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan held a telephone conversation with President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, the PMs Office told Armenpress.

The officials discussed agenda issues of bilateral and multilateral relations, including the activity of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, AUGUST 7, ARMENPRESS. My Step Foundation will compensate the tuition fees of students admitted to the leading foreign universities for the first year. The students have applied to the Luys Foundations 2018-2019 scholarship program, Anna Hakobyan, Armenian Prime Ministers spouse, founder of the My Step Foundation, told reporters on August 7, reports Armenpress.

She said the students, who applied to the Luys Foundation to receive scholarship for study abroad, but later were disappointed due to the suspension of the Foundations activity, now will receive funding by the support of philanthropists.

Nearly 2-3 weeks ago we have received a letter led by Mariam [one of the students admitted to foreign university], they have applied to the My Step Foundation so that we can help them in search for scholarship. We have tried to act as a bridge, conducted research and found new partners who cooperated with us with a great pleasure, and as a result, we managed to provide 18 beneficiaries of the Luys Foundation with the scholarship required. They will successfully start their studies this September-October, Anna Hakobyan said.

She mentioned the names of philanthropists and expressed gratitude for the donations. She also thanked her team members who conducted a great work in a short period of time, as well as My Step Foundations Board of Trustees members Arsinee Khanjian and Serj Tankian who had a great contribution to finding philanthropists.

Anna Hakobyan informed that they have tried to contact 24 young people who applied to the Luys Foundation from Armenia, 4 of them havent reacted, but they have been in contact with 20, one of them got a deferment, the other refused from the assistance, thus, 18 students used that opportunity. Support will also be provided to 4 other students admitted to foreign universities by the funds collected by the My Step Foundation.

Today symbolic contracts were signed between a scholarship holder and the Foundation, the same process will be carried out with the remaining beneficiaries. Anna Hakobyan is full of hope that regardless of the contract, the ties of students with the homeland is so firm that after graduating they will return to Armenia full of knowledge and will serve it for their country and people.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, AUGUST 7, ARMENPRESS. The UKs Royal Mint has released 50p coins dedicated to the 60th anniversary of Paddington Bear, TASS reports.

One of the coins features Paddington waving the flag near the Buckingham Palace, and the next one depicts Paddington Station.

Designer of the coins Dave Knapton said he felt a real sense of nostalgia while creating the coins. I loved reading the books about Paddington when I was younger, the designer said. Paddington was part of my childhood, but now he is being discovered by a completely new generation.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, AUGUST 7, ARMENPRESS. Vice Speaker of the Parliament of Armenia Eduard Sharmazanov on August 7 received Russian Ambassador to Armenia Sergei Kopyrkin, the Parliament told Armenpress.

During the meeting issues relating to the Armenian-Russian relations were discussed.

Vice Speaker Sharmazanov highlighted the necessity to develop the allied relations of the two countries in economic, political, humanitarian, military and cultural sectors.

The officials attached importance to the deepening of the relations both in bilateral and also within the CSTO and EAEU.

They also discussed the regional conflicts, in particular highlighting the exclusively peaceful settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict within the frames of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairmanship.

Edited and translated by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, AUGUST 7, ARMENPRESS. Vice Prime Minister of Armenia, Board Member of Civil Contract Party Tigran Avinyan is not surprised at MPs from ARF and Tsarukyan bloc joining petition for changing Robert Kocharyans precautionary measure, ARMENPRESS reports Avinyan told RFE/RL's Armenian Service on August 7. According to the Vice PM, they will anyway draw some conclusion from this act of their coalition partners.

Its their right and its very important to record the fact that the Special Investigation Service does not receive any instructions from the Executive. It acts independently, either does the Court of First Instance, Tigran Avinyan said, adding that in their relations with their partners they need to analyze these acts and make some conclusions.

The Vice PM also referred to the statement issued by ARF Supreme Council over the decision to remand 2nd President of Armenia Robert Kocharyan into custody. Avinyan emphasized that the Executive will exert no pressure on the judicial branch.

Dashnaktsutyun, that is part of this Government, should be well aware of the relations between the Executive and the Judiciary and if there are any pressures on the judicial branch. For me the content of that statement is a little unclear. We recorded on the first day that the Executive will not exert any pressure on the Judicial body. No one calls the judge and tells him what to do. Its unacceptable, the Deputy PM said.

ARF issued the statment on July 27, reading Taking into consideration the recent developments in Armenia, we welcome the steps towards establishment of rule of law, equality before the law and elimination of the environment of impunity.



It is also essential that all processes take place on legal basis in accordance with the law without giving grounds for political speculation.



We are convinced that the authorities will take the responsibility of uniting people and no investigation will jeopardize that solidarity.



In this context, we also observe the precise, impartial and comprehensive investigation of tragic events that took place on March 1 of 2008, as well as during formation of independent state.



Thus the charge of overthrow of constitutional order on March 1 brought against Armenias second President Robert Kocharyan and other authorities at the period is very concerning and can be interpreted as political persecution.

46 MPs have joined the petition to change the precautionary measure of Robert Kocharyan. The majority of the MPs represent the Republican Party of Armenia. 3 are from the ARF and 1 from Tsarukyan bloc.

Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan
YEREVAN, 7 AUGUST, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 7 august, USD exchange rate up by 0.22 drams to 481.50 drams. EUR exchange rate down by 0.32 drams to 556.81 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate stood at 7.58 drams. GBP exchange rate down by 1.84 drams to 624.31 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price up by 21.75 drams to 18829.03 drams. Silver price down by 1.29 drams to 237.78 drams. Platinum price up by 145.14 drams to 12879.84 drams.
YEREVAN, AUGUST 7, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan received Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kazakhstan to Armenia Timur Urazyaev on August 7, ARMENPRESS was informed from the official website of the Prime Minister of Armenia.

PM Pashinyan highlighted the future development of Armenian-Kazakh relations, and expressed confidence that the active efforts of the Ambassador will foster the expansion and deepening of bilateral relations in different spheres. Nikol Pashinyan underlined that a good atmospheres exists in the relations of Armenia and Kazakhstan and added that it will foster the development of cooperation between the two states.

Timur Urazyaev noted that Kazakhstan is interested in strengthening the cooperation with Armenia and effective partnership on both bilateral and multilateral formats, including in the sidelines of the EAEU and the CSTO.

The interlocutors highlighted the expansion of trade and economic relations between the two countries and noted with satisfaction that in the first half of 2018 trade turnover rose 2.5-fold against the same period of the last year.

The sides also referred to Nagorno Karabakh conflict settlement, highlighting the regional peace and stability. PM Pashinyan emphasized that the conflict should be settled exclusively in the sidelines of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairs format.

Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan
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When Donald Trump famously descended the escalator of Trump Tower to announce he was running for president in June 2015, I found my thoughts immediately turning to Rudy Giuliani. Here was another son of New York City making a wildly unrealistic bid for the White House, just as Giuliani had done eight years previously. The former mayor reluctantly quit the field after months of trudging around Iowa and New Hampshire without winning a single delegate.

When Trump won, it seemed like a big reward was on its way to Giuliani. Would he be the next secretary of state, the pundit class speculated, after concluding that the role of attorney general wasnt good enough for the former lawyer? Instead, word came from the White House that Giuliani had taken himself out of consideration, a statement no one believed. Giuliani turned out to be the next cyber-security tsar.

So it was rather shocking when in April the announcement came that Giuliani was joining the Trump legal team and becoming its chief spokesman. Giuliani had been given perhaps the most important job of all: fighting Trumps corner as Robert Muellers FBI investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election homed in relentlessly on the White House. During just over one and a half years in office, the president has lost or fired a succession of key administration figures, from Steve Bannon to Michael Flynn. Trust Trump to pick a top legal gun who creates more problems for him than he solves, which is what Giuliani seems to be doing.

In television interviews last week, Giuliani first revealed and then tried to kill a story that reporters were working on at the New York Times, involving allegations by the presidents former fixer Michael Cohen, whom he described as an instinctual liar. The story, according to Giuliani, alleged there was a strategic pre-meeting between senior Trump aides, before the now infamous Trump Tower encounter in 2016 between members of the then-candidates team and the Russian lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, who was offering damaging information about Hillary Clinton. In rapid-fire sentences, some of which were barely comprehensible, Giuliani maintained that this pre-meeting never happened. So why did he bring up the allegation, which had apparently been put to White House officials, at all, deepening the intrigue surrounding the Trump Tower meeting? The same goes for another piece of hot information Giuliani dropped in May  that Trump had reimbursed Cohen for money used to pay off the stripper, Stormy Daniels, to stop her going public over an alleged affair with Trump. That placed his client more squarely in the frame of another matter under investigation by Mueller.

Facebook Twitter Pinterest New York governor George Pataki, Rudy Giuliani and Hillary Clinton tour the World Trade Centre site after the 9/11 attacks. Photograph: Robert F. Bukaty/AFP/Getty Images

These blunders are surprising because Giuliani is no rookie. He is a former US prosecutor known for jailing Wall Street titans and New York politicos, some of whom were pals of Trump. But watching his incoherent bumbling as Trumps new lawyer, no one would suspect his distinguished legal past. His off-the-cuff delivery made it look like he was answering questions before even thinking them through, nor the possible ramifications of his answers. It was distinctly un-lawyerly. Ive talked to influential business people in New York who know both men and did business with them in the 1990s, when Giuliani was New York mayor and Trump was rising as the citys most egotistical developer. They say they no longer recognise the two men as the sharp, savvy acts they were back then.

Its sad to witness this final, inglorious phase of Giulianis career, given the admirable parts of the first act. As mayor, he won the hearts of the world after 9/11, walking alongside the hero firefighters and those charged with rebuilding downtown. He used his legal chops to crack down on crime and to enforce order in a city that had spun out of control, although his sanctioning of police violence brought justified condemnation. Voters liked the fact that they could go outside without seeing or smelling piles of uncollected garbage. He became popular for making the city work again.

Donald Trumps war with the media has deadly implications | Simon Tisdall Read more

But it increasingly seems like Trump has hired a liability. The wild, aggressive language should not be a surprise. Some of Giulianis campaigning for Trump bordered on the unhinged. Remember the first night of the GOP convention in Cleveland, Ohio, a speech notable for its lock her up histrionics? Then came Giulianis crazed-sounding defence of Trumps outrageous comments about Muslims and cheap attacks on the press. The tone, especially for the conventions opening, was angry and dark. But it is the apparent lack of legal smarts that should be alarming Trump. Giuliani seems totally outmatched by Mueller. Charges involving obstruction of justice and collusion with an enemy state, Russia, may be looming. The special prosecutors office is now trying its first case against Paul Manafort, Trumps former campaign manager, who is on trial in Virginia for tax offences related to his lobbying in Ukraine.

Other former Trump advisers, such as Flynn and George Papadopoulos, have taken pleas, as has Manaforts aide-de-camp, Rick Gates. More than a dozen Russians have been indicted for the 2016 election high jinks. Theres no telling what Mueller has.

Trumps strategy has been to attack Mueller relentlessly. He wanted an attack dog to bite back at Mueller and there was no one more snarling than Giuliani. But he keeps messing up. On other talk shows last week, Giuliani denied Trump was guilty of any collusion. The next day he was arguing that collusion was not a crime, anyway. Which is it?

F Scott Fitzgerald famously wrote: There are no second acts in American lives. It might have been a blessing for Rudy Giuliani if that were really true.

 Jill Abramson is a Guardian columnist
Georgia on Tuesday condemned Russia's continued "occupation" of its territory, a decade after the two countries went to war over the Kremlin-backed separatist regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. "This is a war against Georgia, an aggression, an occupation, and a blatant violation of international law," Georgian President Giorgi Margvelashvili told a round table meeting attended by Georgian government officials and visiting foreign ministers of Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine's vice premier. "The aggressor's appetite has only increased after the invasion," he said. Georgia and its Soviet-era master Russia have long been at loggerheads over Tbilisi's bid to join the European Union and NATO with the spiralling confrontation culminating in a five-day war in 2008. On August 8, 2008, the Russian army swept into Georgia -- bombing targets and occupying large swathes of territory ? after Tbilisi launched a large-scale military operation against South Ossetian separatist forces who had been shelling Georgian villages in the region. Over just five days, Russia defeated Georgia's small military and the hostilities ended with a ceasefire mediated by France's then-president Nicolas Sarkozy, who at the time held the European Union's rotating presidency. After the war, Moscow recognised South Ossetia and another separatist enclave, Abkhazia, as independent states where it then stationed permanent military bases. Tbilisi and its Western partners condemned the move as an "illegal occupation of Georgian soil" and the first time a sovereign state's borders were changed in Europe through military force since the end of World War Two. - 'Failure to punish Russia' - Speaking to AFP last week, Margvelashvili said that back in 2008, the West believed Russia's military campaign against Georgia "was an isolated move which will not be repeated against other countries". ?And then we witnessed what Russia did in Ukraine in 2014," he added, referring the Kremlin?s support for pro-Moscow rebels in Eastern Ukraine and Russia?s annexation of the Crimean peninsula. In an interview to the Kommersant daily on Monday, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev -- who was president in 2008 -- defended Moscow's recognition of the separatist regions as "the only possible step... to maintain durable peace" and "stability in the South Caucasus". - 'Smack in the jaw' - In an editorial published on Monday on the website of Russia's Echo Moskvy radio station, Mikheil Saakashvili -- Georgia's president in 2004-2013 -- said Russia had been preparing to invade his country years before the war broke out. He said Georgia had no chance of winning a war against its giant northern neighbour, but gave "the aggressor a smack in the jaw" when it offered resistance and won "time until the international community woke up." Russian President Vladimir Putin ?- a prime minister during the war -- said in 2012 that he approved a plan of military action against Georgia as early is in 2006 and that Russia has "trained South Ossetian militia". Earlier on Tuesday, the Georgian foreign ministry denounced Russia's continued military build-up in the separatist regions. "The Russian Federation has not implemented its international obligations despite constant calls from the international community... and has further reinforced its illegal military presence on the ground," the ministry said in a statement. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the EU's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said the "Russian military presence in both Abkhazia and South Ossetia continues to violate international law". She reiterated Europe's "firm support of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia" which she hailed as a "model of democratic stability in the region". Joining the chorus of international condemnation, the German foreign ministry called Russia's recognition of the breakaway Georgian areas Abkhazia and South Ossetia "unacceptable." The 2008 war claimed the lives of hundreds of soldiers and civilians from both sides. The UN said around 120,000 people were displaced during the war, though most returned to their homes afterwards. Up to 18,500 ethnic Georgians were forcibly displaced from South Ossetia, according to prosecutors from the International Criminal Court which in 2016 opened an investigation into war crimes committed during the conflict. Russia and separatist authorities in Abkhazia and South Ossetia have rejected repeated calls from the UN General Assembly for the "safe and dignified return to their homes". Georgia and its Soviet-era master Russia have long been at loggerheads over Tbilisi's bid to join the European Union and NATO with the spiralling confrontation culminating in a five-day war in 2008 The 2008 war claimed the lives of hundreds of soldiers and civilians from both sides
Europe's scorching heatwave has killed nine people in a week in Spain, health authorities said Tuesday, as stifling temperatures kindled wildfires in the country and neighbouring Portugal where a ferocious blaze encircled a resort town. Weeks of nonstop sunshine and near-record temperatures have caused droughts and seen tinder-dry forests consumed by wildfires from the Mediterranean to the Arctic Circle, in what many fear could be the region's new normal in an era of climate change. The devastating effects of the heatwave were visible from space, according to images of swathes of arid landscape taken by the German astronaut Alexander Gerst from the International Space Station. "After several weeks of night flying, I was able to take the first day pictures of central Europe and Germany. The sight is shocking. Everything that should be green is parched and brown," Gerst said on Twitter. - Resorts threatened - Spain and Portugal approached record temperatures at the weekend, with the mercury hitting 46.6 degrees Celsius (116 Fahrenheit) at El Granado in Spain and 46.4 C in Alvega, Portugal, according to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO). While the deadly hot spell is expected to ease in parts of western Europe in the coming days, firefighters in Spain and Portugal struggled to contain wildfires that have swept southern areas. In the southern Portuguese holiday region, residents and tourists have been evacuated from around an Algarve resort town as fire crews struggled to extinguish wildfires that have raged for days leaving 30 people injured, one seriously. Hundreds of firefighters and soldiers used helicopters and planes, as well as several hundred vehicles, to douse the blaze around the mountain town of Monchique as strong winds fanned the flames, with meteorologists warning of "significant" gusts to come. In the Valencia region of neighbouring Spain some 2,500 people were driven from their homes overnight to escape flames that have already swept across around 1,000 hectares, as fire crews struggled to bring the fires under control. A spokesman for the regional health department in the southwestern region of Extremadura, near Portugal, said a 66-year-old man and a 75-year-old woman who died in recent days had both succumbed to heat stroke. This brings to nine the number of people to have died as a direct consequence of the heatwave. - Heat moving east - While parts of Western Europe are forecast to have a reprieve in the coming days, the sweltering temperatures are expected to travel eastwards across the region. "The same circulation pattern persists which brings hot air from North Africa over Europe, but this whole system is now moving slowly to the east so the western parts of the continent will get cooler air from the Atlantic," said WMO spokeswoman Sylvie Castonguay. "This will relieve the situation in most countries in southwestern Europe, while the hot weather conditions will spread further to Eastern Europe." In France, violent thunderstorms brought an end to the heatwave there but led to rail cancellations with trees toppled and powerlines down in some parts of the country. Gusts exceeded 100 kilometres per hour (62 mph) in the Somme and Pas de Calais regions according to meteorologists. - 'Tropical' Arctic - Wildfires have sparked in parts of northern Europe, with blazes still burning up to the Arctic Circle in Sweden, which sizzled in record temperatures in July that also caused mountain top glaciers to melt, according to the WMO. The Arctic regions of Finland and Norway have been so hot that they have experienced 12 "tropical" nights so far this year, with temperatures topping 20 C. - Dying wildlife - Roughly a thousand kilogrammes (a tonne) of dead fish have been scooped from rivers and lakes in Switzerland in recent days, as the heat raised water temperatures. "We have been watching dead fish for several days floating down the Rhine," Andreas Vogeli, an official with the hunting and fisheries department in northern Schaffhausen canton, told the public broadcaster RTS. The most severely affected area is the stretch of the Rhine river that runs from Lake Constance to the Rhine Falls. The cold-loving grayling, a member of the salmon family, can struggle when water temperatures exceed 20 C, but certain areas of the Rhine have recorded temperatures above 27 C in recent days. In Britain, the sustained heat has seen a spike in cases of avian botulism reported among wild waterbirds like swans and geese. Botulism, a naturally occurring neurotoxin activated in warm weather by bacteria in silt, is passed along to waterbirds through infected bugs, causing paralysis. It is not contagious to humans. "Many drown because they can not lift their heads out of the water," Melanie Nelson, a trustee at the Swan Sanctuary in southeast England, told AFP. "Whole lakes are affected at a time meaning entire waterbird communities become sick and die." Temperatures in southeast England were expected to climb to 30 C on Tuesday before easing off for the rest of the week. burs/je/pvh/jta/gle A picture of Portugal, where a fire is raging, taken by German astronaut Alexander Gerst from the International Space Station In the southern Portuguese holiday region, residents and tourists have been evacuated from around an Algarve resort town as fire crews struggled to extinguish wildfires that have left 30 people injured, one seriously Map of Europe showing heatwave warnings at 13:00 GMT August 7. A wildfire burns in Pinet, in the eastern Spanish region of Valencia, on Tuesday ? boy helps a dog drink water in Montenegro, as forecasters warn the sweltering temperatures are expected to spread to Eastern Europe Weeks of nonstop sunshine and near-record temperatures have caused droughts and seen tinder-dry forests consumed by wildfires from the Mediterranean to the Arctic Circle Drought affected areas of Germany and central Europe seen from the International Space Station
Belarusian authorities on Tuesday detained at least three journalists from two independent news websites over "unauthorised" access to services provided by the state news agency. Tut.by editors Maria Zolotova and Anna Kaltygina were detained along with Tatiana Korovenkova, a BelaPAN journalist, the Belarusian Investigative Committee said. All three are accused of "unauthorised access to computer information for reasons of personal gain," it said in a statement, indicating that a criminal case had been opened. State news agency BelTA has accused them of failing to pay subscription fees. If found guilty, they face up to two years in prison. Tut.by said Ulyana Boboyed, who edits its society section, had also been detained and that several others had also been interrogated. Officials said that between them, the two websites had made more than 15,000 "unauthorised connections" to BelTa without its "knowledge or consent" "As a result of the committed crimes, BelTa suffered significant harm" and its "business reputation was harmed," the Investigative Committee said. - 'Not a political issue' - BelPAN's chief editor Irina Levshina told AFP her news site "does not have a BelTA subscription, but with the agency's agreement we used material from its website with hyperlinks." "We are forced to take this information, as we work in unequal conditions. We do not have access to official information and to the press services of (our) country's leadership," Levshina said. Belarusian foreign ministry spokesman Anatoly Glaz told Russian state media the arrests had "nothing to do with issues of press freedom" in Belarus and were not linked to "the political realm." Speaking to Russia's RIA Novosti news agency, Glaz called the case "purely a legal issue" about "the banal misuse of access to paid information." In a statement, the Council of Europe expressed "great concern" over the case and called for the journalists to be released. In July, a Minsk court sentenced independent journalist Dzmitry Halko to four years in prison for allegedly assaulting a police officer. Belarus is ranked 155th out of 180 in this year's Reporters Without Borders world press freedom index. President Alexander Lukashenko has ruled the ex-Soviet country, which shares borders with three EU member states, with an iron fist since 1994. The journalists were arrested as police searched two offices in the Belarussian capital Minsk
Brazil briefly closed then reopened its northern border to Venezuelans on Monday as it struggled to contain mass migration from the South American country saddled with a crippling political and economic crisis, police said. A Supreme Court justice overturned a lower court judge's decision that had suspended for a few hours the entry of more Venezuelans until other immigrants from the country were transferred elsewhere in Brazil. "It is not justified to take the easy path to 'close the doors' because of difficulties in hosting refugees," Supreme Court justice Rosa Weber said in her ruling issued shortly before midnight. The border had remained open to Brazilians and other nationalities, as well as to Venezuelans seeking to return to their home country. It's a main crossing point for tens of thousands of Venezuelan migrants, an influx that has increased dramatically over the past two years. President Michel Temer was opposed in a "non-negotiable" way to the border closure, Human Rights Minister Gustavo Rocha was quoted as saying by state-run Agencia Brasil. Roraima state's capital Boa Vista has hosted the largest number of Venezuelan immigrants in the country -- around 25,000 out of a total of 330,000 city dwellers. An estimated 500 Venezuelans cross the land border into Brazil each day. Roraima Governor Suely Campos had applauded the federal judge's ruling that temporarily shuttered the border. "We have been asking the federal Supreme Court since May to close the border, as well as for financial assistance to minimize the impact on our public services," Campos said in a statement. But Weber, the Supreme Court justice, said: "Although most of those who cross the border between Venezuela and Brazil do not fit into the legal definition of refugee or asylum. "Closing the border between the two countries could impact the situation of individuals who can qualify for protections under international law." Brazil is temporarily closing its northern border to Venezuelans An estimated 500 Venezuelans cross the land border into Brazil each day
Ren Zhengfei, the founder of Chinese telecoms behemoth Huawei, likens the company to a ruthless "wolf" tirelessly running down its prey, an ethos that could soon make it the apex predator of the smartphone world. Despite being essentially barred from the critical US market, Huawei surpassed Apple to become the world's number two smartphone maker in the second quarter of this year and has market leader Samsung in its sights. Huawei has achieved this in part by refocusing away from the futile fight for US access and toward gobbling up market share in developing nations with its moderately priced but increasingly sophisticated phones, analysts say. "Huawei's image and brand recognition across markets and regions is getting better and better," said Tarun Pathak of global market analysis firm Counterpoint. "They've differentiated and positioned their products across price segments, which makes an interesting conversation in terms of competing with Apple and Samsung." Founded by Ren, now 73, with a few thousand dollars in 1987, Huawei focused initially on the backbone hardware for telecommunications networks, growing to become the world leader. Fifteen years after introducing its first phone, Huawei surpassed Apple in the April-June quarter to take second place globally, International Data Corporation (IDC) said last week, the first time since 2010 that Apple was not in the top two. - Raising the ante - Huawei's consumer products chief Richard Yu raised the ante Friday, saying the company could overtake South Korean giant Samsung by late 2019. "The importance of Huawei overtaking Apple this quarter cannot be overstated," senior analyst Ben Stanton of Canalys wrote in a report on the latest sales data. "Huawei's exclusion from the US has forced it to work harder in Asia and Europe to achieve its goals." Based in the southern China tech hub of Shenzhen, Huawei had already been pushing into developing markets even before political pressure -- peaking this year with President Donald Trump's China trade war -- effectively slammed the US door shut. Huawei's exclusion stems in part from US distrust over Ren's earlier career as a Chinese military technologist and fears that Beijing could strong-arm its tech champions into aiding with espionage abroad. Huawei denies any government links. In the meantime, Huawei has built up its business in more price-conscious markets, from Indonesia to Saudi Arabia, South Africa and even Europe. Analysts note that as those markets mature and customers graduate to higher end phones, they will already be in Huawei's ecosystem. "If Apple and Samsung want to maintain their market position, they must make their portfolios more competitive," said Canalys's Stanton. Samsung shipped 71.5 million handsets for a 20.9 percent global market share in the second quarter, compared with Huawei's 54.2 million phones and 15.8 percent share. Apple sold 41.3 million iPhones for a 12.1 percent slice. Huawei shipped 95 million units in the first half and is targeting 2018 sales of 200 million, a threshold crossed previously only by Samsung and Apple. Further growth will keep Huawei firmly on the US security radar. The Trump administration nearly killed Huawei's Chinese rival ZTE this year, imposing tough penalties for violating US sanctions by selling goods to Iran and North Korea. - The 5G challenge - The penalties, since lifted, would have deprived ZTE of US electronics components it desperately needs. Huawei, however, produces its own key components, giving the US less leverage. But an industry sales slowdown and market saturation could limit its growth. IDC said 342 million smartphones were shipped worldwide in the second quarter, down 1.8 percent year-on-year and the third consecutive quarterly decline. In the long term, the lack of a US foothold will be an Achilles heel for Huawei, analysts said, and some market studies project Apple reclaiming the number two spot when new iPhone models are released later this year. And as Huawei customers graduate to higher end gadgets above $600, the Chinese company will have to compete head-to-head with Apple on quality and features. "As you move upward, there are fewer competitors but the features, the challenges, the innovation, and the expectations grow," said Counterpoint's Pathak. "That is something that Huawei, Apple and Samsung all need to capitalise on." A critical test looms in the next two years, when 5G systems are expected to roll out and manufacturers will be judged on how their smartphones handle the enhanced capabilities. Huawei is already gearing up for the challenge. Its R&D spending grew 17 percent last year to $13.8 billion, putting the company in the same league as Samsung, Amazon and Google's parent Alphabet, while recent product launches in Europe have been increasingly glitzy. "Things like camera capabilities and how Huawei rises overall to that (5G) challenge will decide if it is among the Apples and Samsungs, but I think they belong," Pathak said. Huawei overtook Apple to become the world's number two smartphone maker in April-June, despite being denied access the key US market Founder and CEO Ren Zhengfei has likened Huawei to a ruthless 'wolf' tirelessly running down its prey Analysts warn that while Huawei is enjoying a lead over Apple, some studies forecast the US giant will reclaim the number two spot when new iPhone models are released later this year
A nail salon erupted in violence on Friday, with a grandmother and two other customers attacked with a broomstick, believed to be over an eyebrow wax gone wrong.

Employees at the New Red Apple Nail salon in a Brooklyn, New York neighborhood attacked customers with brooms after one of the women allegedly complained about her botched brow wax, the New York Post reported.

Fellow customer Mercy Maduka, who was not involved in the fight, captured the brawl on video.

A nail salon erupted in violence with a grandmother and two other customers attacked with a broomstick because of an eyebrow wax gone wrong. Source: Mercy Maduka / Facebook

She later posted the video on Facebook, where it has gone viral.

So Im at the nail salon and they f****d up a ladys eyebrow and she refused to pay, then a fight broke out, Ms Maduka said in the post.

She also expressed her anger that the salon staff were hitting [the women] like animals.

The video shows salon employees striking one woman with a broomstick until shes able to flee out the front door. Another woman can be seen held back by a male employee. She shouts as the angry staffers begin hitting her and her female companion with the broom.

Ms Maduka told Yahoo Lifestyle the shouting woman who was being restrained was the customer who complained about her brow wax. The first woman, who was able to escape, is her friend, and a third woman also being threatened with the broom was the unsatisfied customers grandmother.

An unhappy customer is grabbed and hit by a mob of nail salon employees while her grandmother is also attacked. Source: Mercy Maduka / Facebook

It was crazy how you can hit someone and her grandma because of $5, Ms Maduka told Yahoo Lifestyle.

According to the Post, women on both sides of the scuffle were arrested.

Salon employee Huiyue Zheng, 32, was charged with assault and weapon possession, and customer Christina Thomas was booked on misdemeanor assault and other charges. Both were released pending a court appearance.

Meanwhile, the Facebook page for New Red Apple Nail salon has been flooded with negative reviews and backlash over the incident.

One outraged woman, Jasmine Johnson, shared footage of herself taking part in a protest outside the salon, which reportedly forced it to close for the day.

In the clip the woman claims one of the victims attacked in the salon paid for the manicure and pedicure she was happy with, but refused to pay the $5 for the botched eyebrow job, which led to the fight.
Denmark's largest lender Danske Bank on Tuesday said it was complying with Danish prosecutors' investigation into long-standing allegations that it was involved in laundering $8.3 billion through its Estonian branch. State Prosecutor for Serious Economic and International Crime (SOIK), Morten Niels Jakobsen, said Monday Danske Bank was being investigated and prosecutors would examine whether charges would be pressed. "Due to the very serious nature and scope of the case, we have followed it for a long time," Jakobsen said in a statement. He added that the case "has long been highly prioritised" and that "several police reports have been received against Danske Bank in this case." "We have a good and constructive dialogue on an ongoing basis with the authorities, and we will be at the service of SOIK if it needs further clarification on specific matters," Flemming Pristed, Danske Bank's chief counsel told AFP in an e-mail. Danske Bank has been at the centre of a financial scandal since Danish daily Berlingske last year claimed that it had been behind the laundering of around $3.9 billion of dirty money from a string of Eastern European countries. But after receiving bank statements from 20 companies with accounts in Danske Bank's Estonian branch between 2007 and 2015, the paper reported in early July that the real figure was actually more than twice that. - 'Complex network' - The bank statements from 20 companies at Danske Bank are linked to a fraud case exposed by the Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, who was jailed for revealing high-ranking Russian officials involvement in stealing massive tax payments from several companies, including the investment fund Hermitage Capital. Magnitsky died in 2009 aged 37 after being held for a year and denied medical care. Bill Browder, CEO of Hermitage Capital and Magnitsky's former client who was kicked out of Russia for exposing corruption at the largest state owned companies, has spent nine years tracking money laundering in the nation. He said the money was laundered at Danske Bank's Estonian branch after travelling through "a complex network of sham companies and money laundering banks" in Moldova, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Ukraine. Danske Bank has acknowledged that its control over the Estonian branch has not been good enough and launched its own investigation into the matter last year. The results were expected in September. The group finds itself in the company of other major European banks that have been ensnared in massive laundering scandals in recent years including France's BNP Paribas and Germany's Deutsche Bank. In the crosshairs of financial crime investigators
Two elderly men snuck out of their nursing home to go to the worlds biggest heavy metal music festival.

After being reported missing, according to the Deutsche Well, the elderly metal-heads were found by police around 3am in the middle of the Wacken Open Air festival in Germany.

Fridays festival in the town of Wacken was sold out and had an estimated attendance of about 75,000.

There were 75,000 revellers at Wacken Open Air heavy metal festival in Germany. Source: Getty

They were ushered into a taxi, which was given a police escort back to the nursing home.

The care home quickly organised return transport after police picked them up, police spokeswoman Merle Neufeld said.

They obviously liked the metal festival.

The seniors were among the 75,000 revellers at the Wacken Open Air heavy metal festival in Germany. Source: Getty

Fans rock out at the Wacken Open Air festival at the weekend. Source: Getty

The two aging rockers were discovered disorientated and dazed at the event  however, they apparently didnt want to leave.

The line-up at Wacken Open Air over the weekend included acts such as Judas Priest and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Although the festival is usually known for its muddy fields, there were warning of fires issued amid Europes heatwave.
EU countries should continue extraditions to Britain until it leaves the bloc next year, despite claims that Brexit could cause uncertainty for suspects, the legal advisor to the union's top court said Tuesday. An Irish murder suspect appealed against a European Arrest Warrant on the grounds that Britain's decision to quit the EU left unanswered questions over the arrangements for his transfer. But the advocate general to the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg said that Britain's June 2016 vote to leave had no bearing on such warrants so long as it remained part of the EU. "The UK?s decision to leave the EU should not affect the execution of a European arrest warrant issued by it. EU law applies as long as the UK is a Member State," Advocate General Maciej Szpunar said. Judges at the ECJ usually, but not always, follow the legal opinions of the court's advocate general. The European Arrest Warrant system allows EU countries to request the extradition of suspects from other member states, with very few reasons allowed for refusal. It has been used in high-profile cases including Spain's bid to extradite former Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont from Belgium and Germany, and for Sweden's attempt to transfer Wikileaks chief Julian Assange from Britain over sexual assault allegations. The suspect in the current case, identified only as RO, was arrested in Ireland in 2016 on a warrant issued by Britain on charges of murder, arson and rape, and appealed to the Irish High Court on grounds including issues related to Brexit. The Irish court then asked the ECJ to rule whether it should refuse to surrender the suspect due to "the uncertainty as to the arrangements which will be put in place after the UK?s withdrawal." But the ECJ lawyer said there were no grounds to refuse the warrant. Britain was still subject to EU laws until it leaves in March 2019, and moreover "there is no basis to question the UK?s continued commitment to fundamental rights," the advocate general ruled. The advocate general also said that Irish authorities could expect that Britain could abide by the European Arrest Warrant system's rules "including for post-surrender situations after the issuing member state has left the EU." The advocate general to the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg says that Britain's June 2016 Brexit vote has no bearing on extradition warrants so long as it remains a part of the EU
Europe baked in near-record temperatures on Monday but some respite was on the horizon after weeks of nonstop sunshine as people come to terms with what may prove to be the region's new normal in an era of climate change. Here is a roundup of recent developments: - France nearing a peak - Temperatures were expected to peak at around 37 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit) in southern France on Monday, while the north is due to be hotter on Tuesday. On Saturday, they hit their highest levels since a 2003 heatwave killed thousands of mainly elderly people. Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said people had to take proper care to cope with the heat and warned that everyone had to adapt. "You need to drink a lot, but also to eat and take salt," Buzyn said. "We are probably going to adapt our warnings in the coming years, because this is something we haven't been seeing until now." - Spain fires under control- In Spain the death toll rose to seven after a 40-year-old German man on the Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James) pilgrimage succumbed to heat stroke on Sunday in the eastern region of Extremadura, a spokeswoman for Spain's Guardia Civil police force told AFP. Local officials also recorded other heat stroke deaths in the Extremadura and Catalonia regions. Firefighters, benefitting from calmer winds, were meanwhile gaining control of a wildfire in the southwestern province of Huelva, just across the border from the Algarve in southern Portugal. Temperatures remained high, especially in the southeast where they were forecast to hit 40-42 C. - Portugal fires - In Portugal, temperatures have eased slightly but not by enough to make the job of some 1,100 firefighters aided by 160 soldiers in Monchique any easier pending the expected arrival of two Spanish Canadair firefighting planes. Monchique, in southern Portugal, was shrouded in thick clouds of smoke early Monday after the authorities evacuated several houses overnight, with 24 people injured, one seriously. Rescue officials initially expressed optimism they were getting the better of the raging fire. But in a new update they appeared less confident. Abel Gomes, one of the heads of the civil protection service, said the situation "had unfortunately changed". "We have witnessed flare-ups of great intensity" fanned by strong winds, he added. The weather service said that after Saturday's peak, temperatures were back below 45 C and should continue lower over the next few days. - Fresh spike in Germany - Germany expects a fresh spike mid-week to around 39 C before temperatures ease, with official figures showing the average for April-July running 3.6 degrees higher than the 1961-1990 reference period. Farmers continued to plead for help, with the president of Germany's farmers' association, Joachim Rukwied, saying a billion euros ($1.15 billion) in government aid may be necessary as crop failure rates hit 70 percent in some areas. More than a million children returned to school on Monday in three German states -? Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland and Hesse -- but some were allowed to go home early because of the heatwave. - British islands in trouble - Britain saw continued hot weather in the south with a maximum of 32 C but it was cooler and cloudier in the north. Reports said the persistent lack of rain has hit the country's more remote islands, such as Lundy in the Bristol Channel -- with a population in the dozens -- which is now reliant on bottled water from the mainland after local supplies ran dry. Arran in Scotland, the Isle of Scilly in southwest England and Jersey in the Channel Islands have all asked people to cut water consumption, the Daily Express report added. - Netherlands - The heatwave has hit the low-lying Netherlands hard like many other countries but no one thought it could be a threat to its world-famous system of dams and canals designed to keep the sea at bay. River levels have fallen so low that seawater is seeping in to waterways, and the Rijkswaterstaat, which manages the national water system, has been opening barrages inland to flush it out. Meanwhile in the city of Utrecht, the clock hands on the famous medieval Dom Tower have stood still since Friday at 11:23 after the hot temperatures warped the mechanism. The European Association of Fruit and Vegetable Processors (Profel), based in neighbouring Belgium, lamented the effect of a third straight year of prolonged drought conditions. "The extreme weather conditions experienced around Europe can lead to losses on the fields in both quality and quantity," a Profel statement said, warning of a "severe shortage in supplies in the coming period for all vegetable crops." - Greek fire toll rises to 91 - Greece was a little cooler but the toll in last month's wildfire northeast of Athens rose to 91 as a 95-year-old woman died of her injuries, officials said. Another 36 people remain hospitalised after the July 23 disaster, six of them in critical condition. - Scorching Scandinavia - Wildfires that have been raging across Sweden are abating, emergency services SOS Alarm said, adding that the blazes were down to eight on Monday. The nation's far north saw heavy rainfall on Monday, authorities said, after record heat in the Arctic Circle triggered drought and wildfires. Drought is persisting in many other areas of the country. In neighbouring Finland, a Helsinki supermarket opened its doors overnight Saturday to customers seeking refuge from the heat. In a video released on Facebook, the K-Supermarket showed customers chilling on mattresses and in sleeping bags. Kids cool off in Madrid as a heatwave sweeps across Europe with near-record temperatures A crowded outdoor swimming pool on a canal in central Paris as people seek relief from the heat A parched sunflower with dried leaves in western Switzerland A dried cornfield is in Mitschdorf, eastern France Beach-goers cool off at the Spanish seaside resort of Benidorm Smoke rose from a wildfire close to Monchique in the Algarve, southern Portugal, where more than a 1,000 firefighters are battling the blaze Young western lowland gorilla Richard eats frozen fruits to cool off in Prague People cooled off on pedalos in London's Hyde Park The banks of the Rhine river near Lobith in the Netherlands have been dried out by the ongoing drought The devatastion in a the village of Mati, near Athens after wildfires tore through the region last month A graphic showing the heatwave in Europe
Italy's hardline Interior Minister Matteo Salvini on Tuesday declared war on mafia networks exploiting foreign agricultural workers after 16 died in two crashes in the country's south. The two near-identical crashes, which came within 48 hours of each other outside the city of Foggia in the Puglia region, have put a spotlight on the plight of foreign seasonal tomato-pickers during harvest season. "It's a mafia problem. In Foggia... there is mafia criminality that I intend to eradicate street by street, town by town, by all means legally available," Salvini said at a press conference in Foggia on Tuesday. Salvini, who is also co-deputy prime minister and leader of the far-right League, said his anti-migrant campaign would starve criminal gangs of people to exploit. He also blasted "unfair competition" from what he calls imports "forced" by the European Union, a favourite target of his. The Foggia province hosts thousands of African migrants who spend the summer harvesting season picking tomatoes in blazing temperatures alongside workers from eastern Europe, typically Romanians, Bulgarians and Poles. Although most of those working in the fields in Italy have regular papers, they rarely receive the benefits and salaries required by law, and many live in squalid conditions. They are often at the mercy of day labourer recruiters -- sometimes linked to organised crime -- who operate as intermediaries and collect a portion of the workers' pay. Fourteen workers -- all non-EU citizens -- were killed on Monday when the van taking them home from work smashed into a lorry transporting harvested tomatoes. On Saturday, four African farm workers were killed in another collision with a tomato truck. That crash provoked dozens of African workers living in one of the province's shanty towns to go on strike on Wednesday morning and march to Foggia. - 'Uncontrolled migration' - On Tuesday Salvini said that mafia networks had benefited from "uncontrolled immigration". "If there were not thousands of desperate people to exploit, they would have more trouble doing business," he said. The 45-year-old also announced his intention to tackle the "importing of slaves" from within Europe, asking for more stringent checks from his Bulgarian and Romanian counterparts. Salvini said that Italy's traffic police have seized 300 vehicles in the area in recent months, most of which were "vans registered in Bulgaria and without insurance", adding that the service had only 116 officers to control the province's roads. He said that some Italian farmers should be labelled "outlaws because some use mafia methods to enrich themselves". Salvini also claimed that the EU had helped create the situation that led to the use of what Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte called "slave labour" after his own visit to Foggia. "If Europe didn't force us to accept the importing of Tunisian tomatoes, Moroccan oranges, Burmese rise and Canadian wheat maybe it would be easier for our farmers to live," Salvini said. Italy's Interior Minister Matteo Salvini, right, speaks with farm labourers in Foggia, southern Italy, on Tuesday Twelve migrant agricultural workers were killed when the van transporting them during tomato harvest season smashed into a lorry in southern Italy
In the middle of the street, corpses riddled with bullets. Underground, thousands of bodies heaped in clandestine graves. And in the mountains, drug gangs locked in armed conflict with the military. These grim scenes have increasingly become the norm in Mexico, a country gripped by violence stemming from its war on drugs which since 2006 has seen more than 200,000 murders and 30,000 people gone missing. So despite his bold promise of a "Mexico in Peace," Enrique Pena Nieto will pass to leftist Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador this year a country with record homicide rates, disappearances and complaints against security forces over alleged extrajudicial executions and forced disappearances. And battles with drug traffickers remain incessant: corpses are frequently found shot, dismembered, decapitated, hung from bridges, stashed in garbage bags, exposed on the streets or dumped in clandestine graves in states country-wide, even those that were considered safe a few years ago. Mexico closed 2017 with 28,711 homicides, the highest official figure since the nation began such record-keeping in 1997. This year looks even bleaker: the first half saw 15,973 murders, well over the 13,503 in the same period a year earlier. That official number does not detail how many of these homicides are linked to organized crime, but a report by the NGO Semaforo Delictivo indicates most are carried out by narcotraffickers. - Countrywide insecurity - Wielding heavy weapons imported illegally from the United States, cartels fight among themselves to seize lands for the cultivation and transfer of drugs, whose primary destination is the United States. AFP photographers recently documented insecurity in cities like touristy Acapulco, the US-Mexico border at Tijuana, cosmopolitan Mexico City, well-known Guadalajara and the emblematic Culiacan -- the capital of Sinaloa, and the birthplace of Mexico's top drug traffickers. All of these places host frequent joint operations of military and police, as well as forensic experts donning special white suits at crime scenes taped off in yellow. Residents of Guadalajara, Mexico's second city, were shocked this weekend with the discovery of at least ten bodies in a clandestine grave inside a house. And in Acapulco, formerly a favorite of the jet-set before becoming one of the country's most dangerous cities, a police commander was killed last month, his colleague left wounded on the street. The central state of Guanajuato -- formerly home to much of the export-oriented manufacturing sector as well as many tourist destinations -- has become the region with the most murders by drug traffickers, with 1,241 cases in the first half of 2018, according to Semaforo Delictivo. And the morgues? Overflowing. View of the body of a woman shot dead near her house in Culiacan, Sinaloa A shadow falls near the woman's shrouded corpse Forensic personnel carry the body of a man who died during a police chase after stealing a car and trying to flee in a municipal vehicle, in Tlajomulco, Jalisco State, Mexico View of the crime scene of a clandestine grave located inside a house in Guadalajara, Jalisco State, Mexico
Russia on Tuesday held funerals for three journalists killed in the Central African Republic who were investigating a shadowy Russian mercenary group for a media project founded by Kremlin foe Mikhail Khodorkovsky. The three men, reporter Orkhan Dzhemal, director Alexander Rastorguyev and cameraman Kirill Radchenko, were killed on July 30 shortly after arriving in the war-torn country to report on a private army known as Wagner Group. Wagner's soldiers have fought in conflicts in Ukraine and Syria, according to Western and independent Russian media reports as well as foreign governments. Russia officially has military and civilian instructors in CAR to train local troops and experts have suggested they could be part of Wagner. The Russian foreign ministry said initial evidence suggests the journalists were killed after resisting robbers. The men's bodies were flown to Russia on Sunday. The body of Dzhemal, a 51-year-old journalist and war correspondent who had worked for media including liberal newspaper Novaya Gazeta, was laid out in the courtyard of Moscow's main mosque for prayers with around 300 mourners, ahead of his burial in a city cemetery. Dzhemal's youngest son gave a moving eulogy. "If there were a few more people like this in the world, the world would be a lot better. I will try to be as great as my father," Mansur Dzhemal said. The family of 47-year-old director Rastorguyev, whose documentary films including "Tender's Heat. Wild, Wild Beach" picked up international awards, held a funeral service in a Moscow Russian Orthodox church. "His films are absolute works of genius," Lyubov Arkus, a documentary maker and editor of film magazine Seance, told AFP. She called him an "uncompromising radical" for whom "meaning was more important than career." The family of cameraman Radchenko held a private memorial ceremony for the 33-year-old who had spent months covering the Syrian conflict for pro-Kremlin outlet ANNA News, but himself held opposition views. The trio were sent to Africa by a centre for investigative journalism set up by Khodorkovsky, President Vladimir Putin's arch foe who lives in exile in Britain after spending a decade in jail. A journalist at the centre, Sergei Kanev, told Echo of Moscow radio he believes Russian investigators want to pin the blame for the men's deaths on Khodorkovsky. "I suspect all the arrows will be fired at Khodorkovsky, that he allegedly sent people to certain death," Kanev said after being questioned by investigators. Russia has opened a murder probe and its investigators are questioning the dead men's colleagues and relatives. video-ml-am/oc/boc Mourners carry the coffin of slain Russian journalist Orkhan Dzhemal, who was killed during a reporting trip in the Central African Republic, after an Islamic funeral prayer at Moscow's Sobornaya mosque.
Saudi Arabia's diplomatic rupture with Canada underscores the kingdom's newly combative foreign policy to tame international criticism after a crackdown on domestic critics, as it struggles to implement risky reforms, analysts say. Saudi Arabia on Monday expelled Canada's ambassador and recalled its own envoy while freezing all new trade and investments, after Ottawa denounced a new crackdown on women and human rights activists in the kingdom. Riyadh also said it will relocate thousands of Saudi students studying in Canada to other countries, while state airline Saudia announced it was suspending flights to Toronto. Experts said the move illustrates how the oil-rich kingdom is increasingly seeking to use its economic and diplomatic muscle to quell foreign criticism under its young de facto leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. "This is clearly an attempt to bully countries to tone down their criticism of Saudi Arabia," James Dorsey, a fellow at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, told AFP. "The question is: are they going to allow themselves to be bullied? They (critics) are not going to fall on their knees." Canada on Monday indicated it will not back down, despite the risk of imperilling business deals including a significant $15 billion agreement to sell Riyadh light armoured vehicles. If the deal is scrapped, thousands of jobs could be lost in Canada, experts say. But "Canada will always stand up for human rights, in Canada and around the world, and women's rights are human rights," said Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland. - 'Discipline foreign critics' - Canada annoyed Riyadh last week when it called for the "immediate release" of rights campaigners, including award-winning women's rights activist Samar Badawi, the sister of jailed blogger Raif Badawi. Samar Badawi was arrested along with fellow campaigner Nassima al-Sadah last week, the latest victims of what Human Rights Watch called an "unprecedented government crackdown" on women activists. It came after more than a dozen women's rights campaigners were detained and accused of undermining national security and collaborating with enemies of the state. "After 'disciplining' domestic critics through warnings & arrests (Saudi Arabia is) seeking to use economic leverage & diplomatic actions to discipline foreign critics as well," tweeted Kristin Diwan, of the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington. So far major Western powers including the United States -- a key ally of Saudi Arabia -- have not publicly come out in support of Canada, though it is not the first country to be targeted for speaking up. In March 2015, Saudi Arabia recalled its ambassador from Stockholm over criticism by the Swedish foreign minister of Riyadh's human rights record. Earlier this year, Bloomberg News reported that Saudi Arabia was scaling back its dealings with some German companies amid a diplomatic spat with Berlin. The move came after Germany's foreign minister last November remarked that Lebanon was a "pawn" of Saudi Arabia after the surprise resignation of its Prime Minister Saad Hariri while in Riyadh. "Saudi Arabia was historically defined by its calculated diplomacy," Gulf affairs expert Khalil Harb told AFP. But such an "aggressive and rash" stance towards Canada illustrates an "extremist foreign policy driven by the young crown prince", Harb added. Prince Mohammed has drawn criticism not just over human rights but also for pursuing a ruinous bombing campaign in neighbouring Yemen, which is in the grip of war and a humanitarian crisis. - 'Hyper-nationalism' - Lashing out at Canada, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir on Monday said the kingdom "will deal with any interference decisively". Some Saudi supporters bashing Canada on social media appeared to take that threat too far. A pro-Saudi Twitter account stirred outrage when it invoked 9/11 imagery with a digitally altered image showing a plane flying towards the Toronto skyline. The account later apologised and the image was reposted with the plane removed, but screenshots of the original tweet spread quickly. Saudi Arabia appeared to have shut down the account on Tuesday. "What we're seeing... is (an) example of growing hyper-nationalism constructed in Saudi Arabia: vigorously defending sovereignty through punitive measures against transnational civil society groups and countries that support them," said Diwan. But proponents of Prince Mohammed's aggressive stance say he seeks to avoid complications that could derail his highly sensitive social and economic reform drive -- opposed by many arch-conservatives. The 32-year-old crown prince, set to be the first millennial to occupy the throne in a country where half the population is under 25, has introduced a string of reforms such as lifting a decades-long ban on women drivers. The prince "aims for change but is unwilling to be guided by other countries, nor establish quick change that could trigger the risk of conflict inside the kingdom," Najah al-Otaibi, a senior analyst at pro-Saudi think-tank Arabia Foundation, told AFP. "Of course Canada can continue supporting Saudi Arabia's reforms, but through means other than pressure and criticism." Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has overseen dramatic reforms but drawn criticism over human rights Saudi activist Samar Badawi received an International Women of Courage Award in Washington on March 8, 2012
Spain's conservative Popular Party (PP), freshly ousted from power over a series of corruption cases, has been hit by another scandal as new leader Pablo Casado stands accused of getting a Masters degree as a "gift." The 37-year-old promised "regeneration" when he replaced Mariano Rajoy on July 21 as PP chief following the latter's ouster as prime minister in a no-confidence vote called over the corruption scandals affecting his party. But a judge at a Madrid court believes he may be guilty of "bribery and misfeasance" for getting his diploma in regional law from the Spanish capital's King Juan Carlos University in 2009 without going to lectures or passing exams. In a court document seen by AFP Tuesday, Judge Carmen Rodriguez-Medel says she found possible evidence of wrongdoing as she investigated the university and other students over degree irregularities. She has asked the Supreme Court to probe Casado, the only tribunal able to do so given his special status as a lawmaker. Casado has already admitted to not attending lectures to get his Masters, and according to the court document, said he got his diploma based on "work" he submitted. But Rodriguez-Medel, who was unable to question Casado, said her investigations had found no trace at the university of any work. She believes he received the Masters as a "gift," one of several to have allegedly benefited from this special favour. The King Juan Carlos University is where Casado's fellow party colleague Cristina Cifuentes obtained the same diploma in dubious circumstances in what became known as the "mastergate" scandal. Under fire for weeks, Cifuentes eventually resigned as president of the Madrid region in April when footage emerged of her allegedly shoplifting 40 euros ($46) worth of cosmetics. Casado on Monday ruled out resigning and the PP lept to his defence. "Innocent people must never resign," the PP's secretary general Teodoro Garcia told reporters on Tuesday. He said that Casado had "many of the documents that he later submitted," adding that under its regulations, the university destroys student paperwork after seven years. Garcia also said he was "surprised" that members of the ruling Socialist party who had "faked" their CV were not being probed. He pointed to Jose Manuel Franco, secretary-general of the Socialist party in Madrid, who in April admitted an "irregularity" in his CV, having written he had a degree in maths when he never did. Pablo Casado promised a fresh start when he replaced former premier Mariano Rajoy as head of Spain's conservatives last month


A university graduate has been questioned over her decision to pose with an alligator for her graduation photograph.

Makenzie Alexi Noland, 21, who was graduating from Texas A&M on Friday, donned her cap and gown and waded into knee-deep water for her graduation picture with a 3.9-metre, 453-kilogram alligator named Big Tex.

The 21-year-old told KTXS 12 ABC, Tex is one of her best friends and she regularly tickles the gators nose and gives him kisses.

Makenzie Alexi Noland donned her graduation cap and gown and waded into knee-deep water for her graduation picture with Big Tex. Source: Facebook/ Makenzie Alexis Noland

She shared her graduation pic with her snappy friend on Facebook and the photos have more than 4,900 shares with many claiming Ms Noland was crazy for getting photos with a large alligator.

Oh, Hell no, one user wrote.

One man suggested the gator was well fed before the photos were taken.

What the Hell is wrong with her? another wrote.

You A&M folks are straight crazy, another said.

However, not everyone was negative about the photographs.

I just love your passion and enthusiasm, one man wrote.

Another said it was the best senior pic they had seen while someone else labelled the photos as kind of bada**.

Youre genuinely an awesome person, another man wrote.

Ms Noland has been interning with alligator rescue park Gator Country where she met Big Tex. Source: Facebook/ Makenzie Alexis Noland

Big Tex is a resident of alligator rescue park Gator Country, and according to the park, in 2016 held the national record for the largest live-captured nuisance gator.

The pair have a bit of history. Ms Noland interned at the park in May and June, and earlier wrote on Facebook in May shed been working her way to gaining the trust of Big Tex by feeding him.

This is no small task, in fact Tex is very picky about who can get in and feed him, she wrote.

Ms Nolands graduation photograph isnt the only one to go viral in the past 12 months.

In May, Kaitlin Bennett from Kent State University in Ohio stirred up controversy after she was snapped carrying an automatic rifle outside her uni.

Her post saw her and her boyfriend receive death threats.

In more heart-warming news, Dalton Jackson, who was graduating high school in Tennessee, was filmed visiting his sick mum in hospital.

Story continues

Daltons terminally-ill mum, Stephanie Northcott, wanted to see her son graduate and was given her dying wish in a special bedside ceremony.

The high school graduates classmates attended in graduation attire while the school principal handed him his certificate.

Dalton then helped his mum out of bed to celebrate him finishing out of high school with a special dance.
Award-winning US television drama "Homeland" will air its eighth and final season next year. The announcement, made on Twitter on Monday, brings to a close the adventures of Carrie Mathison, a bipolar, former CIA agent played by Claire Danes, and her mentor Saul Berenson played by Mandy Patinkin. Based on the Israeli series "Prisoners Of War," it debuted to critical acclaim in 2011, quickly becoming a game-changer for premium cable channel Showtime. The show counted former president Barack Obama among its devotees, while racking up eight Emmy awards and five Golden Globes. But it was also decried by critics for its portrayal of Muslims and was once called the "most Islamaphobic show" on television. In 2015, three graffiti artists hired to give its sets more realism instead caused embarrassment by using their artwork to accuse the show of racism. Award-winning US television drama "Homeland" will air its eighth and final season next year, bringing to a close the adventures of Carrie Mathison, a bipolar, former CIA agent played by Claire Danes
Wallabies skipper Michael Hooper says he is confident of being fit to play the opening Bledisloe Cup clash against the All Blacks after coming through his full first training session since tearing a hamstring. Hooper picked up the injury in the final Test against Ireland in June and was unable to play for the NSW Waratahs during their recent Super Rugby finals run. But he completed a full day's training on Monday with the Test squad and said he was aiming to be ready for the August 18 clash with New Zealand in Sydney. "Hiccups aside, with a week of training, I should be in a good position next week," he told Rugby Australia's website rugby.com.au. "It's the first real footy I have played in over six weeks but I am comfortable in how the injury has progressed in getting here and I have had great rehab. "I am putting myself in the best position to get myself right for the first game." Wallabies coach Michael Cheika named an initial squad for the match on Sunday, with Hooper in it. Also included was Test veteran Tatafu Polota-Nau, who was rested for the Ireland series, and England-based back Matt Toomua, who recently confirmed a move to the Melbourne Rebels. Six uncapped players also made the grade, including 18-year-old Jordan Petaia, who shone during a Bledisloe Cup trial game in Sydney on Friday. Wallabies skipper Michael Hooper (C) completed a full day's training with the Test squad and said he was aiming to be ready for the August 18 clash with New Zealand in Sydney
Joel Robuchon, the worlds most-starred Michelin chef and regarded as one of the chefs of the century has died aged 73.

Robuchon, who was hailed as one of four chefs of the century by the French restaurant guide Gault Millau industry bible in 1990, founded a string of restaurants that revolutionised fine dining across three continents, ratcheting up a whopping 31 Michelin stars.

In 2016, he held a world record 32, the Guardian reported.

From Tokyo to Paris and Macao, foodies queue up for seats in his LAtelier restaurants, where they can watch chefs in action, perched on high stools at a U-shaped bar.

Joel Robuchon, the worlds most-starred Michelin chef and regarded as one of the chefs of the century has died at age 73. Source: AAP (File pic)

According to Le Figaro newspaper he died of cancer in the Swiss city of Geneva.

His death was confirmed by government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux in a tweet on Monday.

Joel Robuchon, a visionary chef who was the most starred in the world, leaves us today, Mr Griveaux wrote.

From Paris to Shanghai, his savoir-faire was an art form that made French gastronomy shine and continues to inspire the next generation of chefs.

Robuchon at a Japanese restaurant in Monaco in 2008. Source: AAP

As a youngster Robuchons first vocation was the priesthood but while cooking for other seminarians he discovered a passion for food and at 15 entered the restaurant trade.

A perfectionist from the start, he quickly earned a name for himself in the rarefied world of Nouvelle Cuisine and by the age of 30 was running a 90-strong kitchen at the Concorde Lafayette hotel in Paris.

The accolades and Michelin stars came thick and fast and by the age of 50, after working himself to the bone, he decided to retire.

But a few years later he was back in action with his Atelier concept, which was inspired by Japanese sushi counters and intended to be more affordable than traditional three-star eateries.

With AFP
Democratic challenger Dana Balter received her second union endorsement in the 24th Congressional District race.

UNITE HERE Local 150, which represents more than 600 workers in the food service and hospitality industries, endorsed Balter, D-Syracuse, in the race against Republican U.S. Rep. John Katko.

Ann Marie Taliercio, president of UNITE HERE Local 150, said Balter will be a champion for working families.

"For too long Congressman Katko has refused to hold public meetings with his constituents, favoring instead phone-in 'town halls' which limit his accountability to the people he represents," Taliercio said in a statement. "Katko claims to be an independent voice for us while voting with President (Donald) Trump 90 percent of the time. UNITE HERE Local 150 is proud to stand with Dana Balter."

UNITE HERE Local 150 joins 1199SEIU Healthcare Workers East in supporting Balter for Congress. The largest health care workers union endorsed the Syracuse Democrat on Monday.

Like 1199SEIU, UNITE HERE has a large presence in the U.S. and members in Canada. The union represents 270,000 workers, according to its website.

"The hard-working people in hospitality and food service industries are a major driver of our economy and deserve well-paying jobs and secure employment," Balter said in a statement. "Unions' collective bargaining makes conditions better for everyone and we must continue to stand behind them."

The unions' endorsements follows the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee's announcement last week that Balter has been added to the Red to Blue program.

The DCCC's Red to Blue program assists Democratic candidates challenging Republican incumbents.

This is Balter's first run for political office. Katko is seeking a third term in Congress. He was first elected in 2014.

The 24th Congressional District is comprised of Cayuga, Onondaga and Wayne counties, plus the western portion of Oswego County.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 6.

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A national Democratic organization is siding with one of the candidates in the four-way primary for New York attorney general.

EMILY's List, which supports pro-choice Democratic women for political office, announced on Tuesday that it has endorsed New York City Public Advocate Letitia James for attorney general.

"Tish James is a fierce public advocate who has always had the back of every New Yorker, especially women," said Stephanie Schriock, president of EMILY's List. "She's ready to serve as the state's top law enforcement officer and protect consumers, working families and New York's most vulnerable."

James, who is also a former New York City councilwoman, entered the race for attorney after Eric Schneiderman's resignation. Schneiderman stepped down after multiple women accused him physical and verbal abuse.

Barbara Underwood succeeded Schneiderman, a Democrat. Underwood is the first woman in New York state history to serve as attorney general.

Underwood, however, isn't seeking a full term as attorney general. With an open seat on the ballot this year, a handful of Democrats are interested in the position.

In addition to James, there are three other Democrats in the race: Zephyr Teachout, who ran for governor in 2014; U.S. Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, who ran for attorney general in 2006; and Leecia Eve, an attorney who has served as a staffer to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Hillary Clinton and other prominent Democrats.

The Democratic primary is Thursday, Sept. 13. The winner of the party's nomination will face Republican candidate Keith Wofford, a Manhattan attorney and Buffalo native, in the general election.

"It's clear that with her proven ability to lead and determination to take on President (Donald) Trump's disastrous agenda, Tish is the strongest candidate to defeat Republican Keith Wofford in November," Schriock said.

A Siena College poll released last week found James leading by nine points over Maloney and by double digits over Teachout and Eve. But 42 percent of primary voters said they are undecided.

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Today on the Eye on NY podcast:

U.S. Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney plans to hold 30 town hall meetings in 30 days as he campaigns for state attorney general. He is one of four Democrats vying for the party's nomination in the race for attorney general. Maloney is kicking off his series of forums with a telephone town hall meeting and two "running" town hall meetings Tuesday in Manhattan and Wednesday in Brooklyn.

A bill sponsored by U.S. Rep. John Katko was signed into law last week by President Donald Trump. I'll discuss what's in the new law and why it's a significant achievement for Katko.

More on the state's decision to move the primary to Thursday, Sept. 13. I wrote a column about this Sunday. Should the state move the primary to a new month?

SUBSCRIBE: Listen on iTunes, Google Play or PodBean.

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A Republican-aligned group on Tuesday announced the launch of an ad campaign targeting Democratic challenger Anthony Brindisi in the 22nd Congressional District race.

The Congressional Leadership Fund, a super political action committee linked to House Republican leaders, released a 30-second television commercial and a minute-long radio advertisement linking Brindisi, D-Utica, to House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and former state Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

The cost of the ad buys wasn't disclosed, but the Congressional Leadership Fund said the commercials will run in the Binghamton and Utica media markets.

In the radio ad, the super PAC ties Brindisi to Silver, who was recently sentenced to seven years in prison after being found guilty on federal corruption charges. The commercial notes that Brindisi, a Utica-area assemblyman, supported Silver for speaker and voted with the Manhattan Democrat more than 90 percent of the time.

The television ad repeats a line of attack used by Brindisi's opponent, incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney. Tenney's campaign has repeatedly linked Brindisi to Pelosi, a California Democrat who has long been targeted by national Republicans.

In the ad, the Congressional Leadership Fund said Brindisi has received $14,000 from Pelosi. Federal Election Commission records confirm Brindisi's campaign has received $10,000 from Pelosi's political action committee, PAC to the Future, and $4,000 from the minority leader's campaign.

Despite the financial contributions, Brindisi has said he won't support Pelosi to lead the House Democrats. The Congressional Leadership Fund believes that's a "big lie."

"Anthony Brindisi encompasses everything that is wrong with Democrats in Albany," Congressional Leadership Fund spokesman Michael Byerly said.

After Tenney's campaign released an ad last week accusing her Democratic challenger of siding with Pelosi on immigration issues, Brindisi responded with an ad that disputed the claims and once again mentioned that he will not support Pelosi for House Democratic leader.

The Congressional Leadership Fund is one of the major outside groups involved in the 22nd district race. The organization has a field office and a full-time employee in the district.

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President Donald Trump will visit central New York Monday for events with two Republican members of Congress.

Trump will campaign with U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney, a Utica-area Republican who has been one of the president's closest allies in Congress. Tenney is seeking re-election in the 22nd Congressional District. Her opponent is Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, a Democrat.

The race is one of the most closely watched House contests in the country and could determine whether Republicans or Democrats control the House of Representatives.

Trump is also scheduled to visit Fort Drum, a U.S. Army installation in Jefferson County. U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, wrote a letter to the president in March inviting him to visit the base.

Stefanik, R-Willsboro, confirmed Tuesday that Trump has accepted her invitation to visit Fort Drum, which is home to the Army's 10th Mountain Division.

While at Fort Drum, Trump will sign the National Defense Authorization Act, a $716 billion defense policy bill that Congress passed last week.

"I am proud of the partnership with this administration to begin rebuilding our military and the president's visit is an important opportunity to highlight this achievement and to thank our men and women in uniform for their service," said Stefanik, whose district includes Fort Drum. "I look forward to welcoming President Trump to Fort Drum and continuing to work to ensure our troops have the resources they need to keep us safe."

Trump's last visit to upstate New York came during the 2016 presidential campaign. He held rallies in upstate cities, including Syracuse, prior to the state's Republican presidential primary.

Members of the Trump administration have visited central New York this summer. In June, Vice President Mike Pence headlined a Syracuse fundraiser for U.S. Rep. John Katko, a Camillus Republican, and toured Nucor Steel in Auburn.

Last month, Ivanka Trump  advisor to the president and Trump's eldest daughter  held an education roundtable with Katko in Syracuse and joined Tenney for a tour of Suit-Kote in Cortland County.

Energy Secretary Rick Perry was in Oswego County last week for a tour and energy roundtable at James A. FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant. Katko was present for the meeting and tour of the facility.

For now, Trump's schedule doesn't include a stop in Syracuse or elsewhere in Katko's district, which includes all of Cayuga County.

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Auburn Community Hospital announced July 30 that Dr. Tarun Bhalla will offer comprehensive stroke and cerebrovascular care at the hospital. Bhalla is a faculty member in the departments of neurosurgery, neurology and imaging sciences, and director of stroke and cerebrovascular services at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

Bhalla often offers patents either open microsurgery or endovascular, minimally invasive treatment options. He will work with the Auburn hospital's cardiologists and primary care physicians in co-management of their patients, the hospital said in a news release.

We are thrilled to have someone of Dr. Bhallas experience in Auburn. This is another great example of the benefits our community is realizing as a result of our strategic partnership with the University of Rochester Medical Center and St. Josephs Health in Syracuse. On average, someone in the U.S. suffers a stroke every 40 seconds and nearly 795,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year. People in our community can feel confident that Auburn Community Hospital will offer excellent care in a timely fashion, and make sure the patient receives the proper education on managing their health after discharge, hospital CEO and President Scott Berlucchi said in a news release.

The hospital also recently received the American Heart Association's 2018 Stroke GOLD PLUS Award, recognizing its adherence to the "golden hour" philosophy that stroke patients must be treated within an hour of the onset of symptoms in order to give them the best chance of survival.

For more information, visit auburnhospital.org.

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The Cayuga County Labor Council, one of 500 AFL-CIO councils nationwide, formally endorsed Michael Zank in the race for the Cayuga County Legislature's District 10 seat Monday.

Zank is running against fellow Democrat and incumbent Joseph Bennett in a special primary election set for Sept. 13. Bennett, who is serving in the third year of his second term, temporarily resigned in May this year to qualify for his retirement pension from his position at a maintenance mechanic at Cayuga Community College.

Although Bennett was almost immediately reappointed, state law requires a special election to be held. Bennett is running on the Democratic, Republican and Conservative party lines.

Zank, who works at the Owens-Illinois bottle plant in Auburn and serves as vice president of the plant's union, is seeking his first political office.

A letter from labor council president William Andre to Zank, who serves as the council's treasurer, offered the endorsement as well as the use of union printing, hospitality and other union services.

Andre said in a phone interview that the council endorsed Zank, who Andre said he's known for at least four years, because they feel he will represent not just labor's best interests in the county but all constituents.

We think he will not only be on top of labor issues but also issues for all working men and women, Andre said, later adding I know Mike well enough to know he'll do what's right for everybody.

Andre said the council made the endorsement after sending an email to the leadership representatives of its affiliate unions asking if they would support Zank or not. With a majority responding positively, Andre said, the council made the endorsement.

"He's a good young man with a good head on his shoulders. He has fresh thoughts and ideas with things he want to do," Andre said.

Individual unions are still free to make their own separate endorsements, Andre said.

The election will be held alongside several other local and potentially state elections on Thursday, Sept 13 with polls open from noon until 9 p.m.

Staff writer Ryan Franklin can be reached at (315) 282-2252 or ryan.franklin@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @RyanNYFranklin

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AUBURN  Frank A. Caruana, 70, formerly of Seymour Street, Auburn, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 2, 2018, in Matthew House, surrounded by his family.

A native and life resident of Auburn, Frank was the son of the late Steve and Mary Sauro Caruana. He attended Holy Family School and later graduated from Mount Carmel High School.

For 29 years Frank worked in the accounting department at the American Locomotive Company. He served as the president of their Steel Workers Union. He later worked for an additional nine years at the Enterprise Car Rental Company. For many years Frank served faithfully as a part-time employee of the Cheche Funeral Home, Inc.

Frank was a vintage automobile enthusiast and collector. He was a member of the Prison City Ramblers Car Club.

For 51 years, Frank was the devoted husband of Philomena Cinotti Caruana. He is further survived by two sons, Jeffrey (Carol) and Scott (Michele) Caruana; a brother, Philip Ziggy Caruana; seven grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Christina, Alyssa, Olivia, and Parker Caruana; as well as Brianna and Alyssa Shahin.

Frank was a true friend to anyone who had ever stepped in front of him and as such he is further survived by his faithful buddies, Joe Cereo and Mike Villano.

Besides his parents, Frank was predeceased by a sister-in-law, Sharon Caruana.

Friends are invited to join the family for a Mass of Christian burial to be offered at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 9, in Holy Family Church. Calling hours will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 8, at the Cheche Funeral Home, 1778 Clark St. Road, Auburn. Burial will be in St. Josephs Cemetery.

The entire Caruana family wishes to thank the Finger Lakes Center for Living, Hospice of the Finger Lakes and Matthew House.

Donations may be made in Franks memory to either the Hospice of the Finger Lakes, 1130 Corporate Drive, Auburn, NY 13021 or Matthew House, 43 Metcalf Drive, Auburn, NY 13021.

Frank should be remembered as a kind and compassionate man with an infectious smile. He was truly a wonderful family man and humanitarian.
The summertime offers so many great recreational opportunities, from camping and hiking, to traveling, local sporting events and so much more. However, it is important to remember, especially for our youngest New Yorkers, that keeping an active mind is just as important as keeping an active body. With a month to go before school begins again, I am encouraging all New Yorkers, and especially our students, to squeeze in some valuable summer reading time.

A good book can transport you to another world. It can motivate you, empower you and offer new ideas and perspectives you would otherwise miss. Reading is exercise for the mind, and with a good book, the possibilities are endless. It is my sincere hope each of you take time and find a novel, a biography or a comic book that stimulates your mind and immerse yourself in a brand new adventure.

LIBRARIES ARE GREAT COMMUNITY RESOURCES

I have long supported New York States incredible library system. Thanks to the great work of the New York Library Association (NYLA) and library boards across New York, they are unparalleled community resources dedicated to supporting learning and creativity. A pillar of our educational system, libraries offer free, unmitigated access to information. And, they are a great place to connect to the internet for those who normally do not have that ability. Not sure what to read? Your local librarian can help you select skill- and age-appropriate books.

For those interested, the 2018 NYLA Annual Conference and Trade Show will be hosted in Rochester this November. The event will offer networking opportunities, access to new library products and Continuing Education credits from Nov. 7 to Nov. 10.

SUPPORTING OUR LIBRARIES IS VITAL

Too often, budget negotiations begin with a proposal to cut library funding. However, these critical community resources are far too important to financially starve. I have long supported adequately funding our libraries and will continue to be a vocal opposition to any budgetary reductions. I was thrilled to see additional library funding included in this years Enacted Budget.

As the summer winds down, please be sure to visit your local library. Bring your family for a day of adventuring, learning and relaxing. It will go a long way toward getting those preparing for school ready to tackle another year.

What do you think? I want to hear from you. Send me your feedback, suggestions and ideas regarding this or any other issue facing New York State. You can always contact my district office at (315) 781-2030, email me at kolbb@nyassembly.gov, find me by searching for Assemblyman Brian Kolb on Facebook, and follow me on Twitter.

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Pictured above, Max Konnor

Launching a new line in this day and age can be a scary venture fraught with risk. That is, unless youre Mile High Media. You see, this isnt its first rodeo. Bolstered by the overwhelming success of Icon Malethe gay studio it launched in 2014 that clocks in at 87 films and countingthe company figures to do it again with the debut of its upcoming Noir Male label. Success wasnt a surprise four years ago, and it wont be in 2018, either.

Not to sound arrogant, but at the time I was expecting exactly what happened. The past success we had seen with products we have launched with [director] Nica Noelle, coupled with the fact that we felt there was very little innovation happening in the gay space at the time, I knew we were about to create something big, says Mile High Media Vice President Jon Blitt of the Icon launch.

Family roleplay had already been the No. 1 genre in straight porn for over a year at the time, and still not one gay brand had ventured into it. So when we launched it was like an explosion. The market was craving storyline products that would touch on more taboo themes, and we gave it to them. I believe that the success of that brandand our commitment to making great productwill pave the way for us to continue to invest in new and better products for the gay market.

Above, Remy Cruze and Seth Santoro

Mile High began more than 30 years ago as a Canadian distribution company, so in a sense it has always been in the gay adult space in one form or another. It wasnt until 2010 when it began producing its own brand, Male Reality.

This was a well-shot, low-cost brand that allowed us to service our worldwide customer base with an aggressively priced gay option. With the success we saw in Male Reality, we felt that is was time to take the next step and invest more in this market. In 2014, we were presented with the opportunity to team up with Nica once againshe had previously shot our Sweetheart and Sweet Sinner brandsand create a higher-end storyline product. Based on past successes with Nica and the fact that we felt the gay market was a little stagnant, it was a no-brainer.

Four years later, Blitt sees another needand is ready to take advantage of the opportunity.

The idea for Noir Male has probably been around a little over a year and a half as we are always looking for new ways to innovate and drive our company forward, Blitt says. If you look at the gay market today, you see so much black and interracial product, yet almost all of it is brands that are low budget and have either a gonzo and/or thug genre focus. We felt that with the huge demand for black product that we see from market trends, if we put a really high-end, luxury look and feel on this genre of product, we will fill a gigantic void in the marketplace.

The vice president says they have targeted simple changes that will make all the difference in how their product is viewed versus the current competition, noting that the brand principles are based around the idea of changing the consumers perception by shining a positive light on this market. We plan to do it showcasing beautiful locations, stylized wardrobes, realistic and relatable scenarios, intense sex scenes andmost importantlythe hottest guys in the business.

Above, Pheonix Fellington and Wesley Woods

The core principle of the new label is to deliver a stylized luxury brand that celebrates gorgeous men of color. Blitt says that most of the research Mile High has done shows that black and interracial products are two of the most searched terms in the United States by males aged 18-45. The company aims to position Noir Male as a product that will appeal to that demographic by offering a fresh alternative.

My feeling is that the gay space is a little more set in their way and change seems to happen a lot slower. I saw this as a huge opportunity to jump into this market as I felt that our experience in following trends and quickly shifting our products to market demand would be a huge advantage for us. If you look at most of our straight productions, you will see that we are constantly evolving and trying new things based on data we are compiling from the marketplace. Icon Male is a perfect examplewe didnt reinvent the wheel, we just took the most trending genre in porn and brought it to the gay market, as no one had even attempted to do any family roleplay products. Fast-forward three-and-a-half years, and almost everyone has followed suit, Blitt says.

Our secret for success has and always will be to put our heads down and work hard. Our success isnt a flukewe have a really strong team in place from top to bottom, and everyone is aligned to create great product. The one thing we have seen in the gay market is how active the talent pool is in self-promotion. One of the main things we will focus more on as we move forward will be to collaborate more with the talent from both a creative and marketing standpoint. The guys really take pride in their work, and they really get behind a product they believe in. I have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from the talent that has shot for Noir Male so far.

The debut film will be Black on White, which features four different vignettes that celebrate a beautifully diverse cast of gorgeous guys in real-life, relatable scenarios.

Mile High is starting off with one title per month with the plan to grow to two if and when the demand is there. And oh yeah, the label has landed a pretty good director, too: Chi Chi LaRue, with a production team led by Alex Ladd.

Chi Chi is definitely the perfect fit for this for many reasons, but if I had to pinpoint oneand she loves when I say thisI brought her on because of what I call the Chi Chi effect! When we developed this product, we felt the No. 1 key to its success would be if we could get the talent to buy into our vision and what we are trying to accomplish, and there is no better voice to bring that to light then Chi Chi. She is so passionate about this brand and what we are trying to accomplish, and that has been infectious with everyone that has stepped on set.

Above, Noah Donovan

The studio pre-released a full-length scene for free on NoirMale.com. (The response has been incredible, Blitt says.) It also sponsored several parties at the Grabbys, with more appearances featuring LaRue scheduled around the countrywhere it will continue to distribute a free sampler DVD. A big social media push is planned leading up to the site and DVD launch at the end of August.

We have already surpassed 5k followers on Twitter and we havent launched a thing, Blitt says. The buzz has been so strong that models are coming to us to work for Noir Male, and we hope to continue to grow this movement.

The new studio had already shot nearly 30 scenes in mid-July, and Blitt notes that all of the performers have been amazingand are vital for its success.

The reaction we have received from the guys based on what we are trying to do with this brand has been overwhelming. I think it was Max Konnor who tweeted this, and it pretty much sums up what we are trying to accomplish, and that is to showcase black men as they should be seen. And let me tell you, the guys we have shot to date are some of the hottest guys Ive ever seen in this business.

Thats encouraging for the fulfillment of Blitts ultimate goal: to help change the way the industry and consumers look at black, ethnic and interracial products and performers.

We hope to change the stereotypes, he says. There is a lot of opportunity in the gay market, and as long as the market is receptive of what we are doing, we will continue to create new products. Some have faulted me and singled me out for being a straight owner, but I block out that noise because clearly the market has spoken and the consumer is the only voice I listen to. Maybe Im just the Straight Eye for the Queer Guy!
PHILADELPHIA, Pa.The fight the Free Speech Coalition has been waging against the federal record-keeping and labeling laws (aka "2257") has been a long one. Not Hundred Years War long, but pretty damned long. It was back in August of 2004 that Free Speech filed comments regarding the then-new 2257 regulations promised by then-Attorney General John Ashcroft following an embarrassing appearance before Congress where he admitted that the 2257 law had never been enforced, and completed by his successor Alberto Gonzales. FSC announced that it intended to challenge the new regs in May of 2005, and filed that suit roughly one month later in Colorado. The legal team at that time consisted of Attorneys H. Louis Sirkin, Paul Cambria and Michael W. Gross, and in December of that year, U.S. District Court Judge Walker D. Miller ruled that despite the new regs, secondary producers need not keep ID records on movies they distributed, though primary producers, including webcam models, were required to keep copies of the sexually explicit material they generated. (Of course, later changes to the regulations reinstated the secondary producer record-keeping requirement.) However, in general, his decision reinforced the legality of 2257 as a concept.

But Free Speech wasn't the only entity fighting 2257 at that time. Attorney J. Michael Murray, the lead attorney in the current 2257 case, had been fighting his own battle with it since the late '90s, in connection with his client Connection Distributing Co., a publisher of swinger magazines which objected to being forced to make its contributing swingers' names and addresses public. Murray won his case, and in October of 2007, a three-judge panel of the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals agreed. However, on further appeal by the government, the full Sixth Circuit overturned its panel's decision in early 2009and Connection went out of business.

All that leads up to Free Speech filing another lawsuit, this time against not only the 2257 regulations, but against the law itselfand it chose none other than J. Michael Murray to lead that litigation, which commenced in October of 2009.

We won't go into further details as to the course of that litigationthose interested need only search "2257" on AVN.combut suffice to say the lawsuit was dismissed once before eventually being reinstated, and has been before the Third Circuit Court of Appeals at least three times on one issue or anotherthe most recent of which resulted in the appeals judges determining that the law needed to be examined under "strict scrutiny," meaning that in order for it to be upheld, the government needed to establish that the law served a compelling governmental interest or goal, that it was sufficiently narrowly tailored to accomplish that interest or goal, and that it was the least restrictive means to achieve that goal. For the most part, Judge Baylson found that the government had failed to justify the law in most respects.

Along with his Final Judgment and Decree, Judge Baylson also issued a Memorandum discussing the reasons behind his decision, much of it the result of input from the attorneys for both sides which began with their proposed Final Judgment Entries filed the first week of July 2018, and concluding with a telephone conference between the parties held on August 1, which discussion was based on a series of questions which the judge had emailed to the parties earlier that day.

Judge Baylson begins his Memorandum by noting that he had earlier, on May 21, dismissed both plaintiffs Free Speech Coalition and the American Society of Media Photographers from the lawsuit regarding the as-applied challenges to the law due to their alleged lack of standing to participate in that phase of the suit. He also at that time denied the plaintiffs' facial overbreadth challenge, while granting the ten individual plaintiffs their challenge to the 2257 law "as applied."

One of the plaintiffs' main contentions in its proposed Final Judgment, as AVN earlier noted, was that although the court had denied their facial challenge to the law, law professor Richard H. Fallon Jr. had authored an article for the Harvard Law Review arguing that there was nothing stopping a court which had found a particular law inapplicable "as applied" to some plaintiffs, from finding that law similarly invalid as to all plaintiffs similarly situated. Hence, if the court found 2257 unconstitutional as applied to the ten plaintiffs here (as it had), then that unconstitutionality could and perhaps even should be applied to all persons who found themselves in the same situation as the ten plaintiffsin other words, the entire adult content-producing industry. Murray noted that even the U.S. Supreme Court had looked favorably on Fallon's logic, citing it in its decision in the Citizens United case which struck down barriers to political campaign contributions by corporations. But even though the government had argued that only the ten individual plaintiffs should benefit from his finding of the unconstitutionality of 2257 as applied to them, Judge Baylson nonetheless issued an injunction barring the government from applying the 2257 law to not only the individual plaintiffs, but anyone who performed the same functions that they did in the adult industry.

Judge Baylson then tackled the justification of his ruling by examining several Supreme Court cases which the government claimed supported its position, including U.S. v. Raines (1960), a case in which officials in Georgia were sued under the Civil Rights Act for racial discrimination against African-Americans seeking to register to vote. While the district court had dismissed the lawsuit as overbroad under the Fifteenth Amendment, the Supreme Court resurrected it, but ruled that while the Georgia officials had discriminated, and while that portion of the Act may have been unconstitutionally overbroad, the district court should still not have struck down that portion of the Act.

Another case Judge Baylson considered was Gonzales v. Carhart (2007), where several district courts ruled that the Partial Birth Abortion Act, which banned a certain type of abortion, was unconstitutional because it contained no exception for the health of the (potential) mother. The Supreme Court reversed, ruling 5-4 that the plaintiffs should not have brought a facial challenge to the law, but rather an as-applied challenge, because the law generally did "not impose an undue burden" on women's ability to obtain abortions.

Judge Baylson then considered some more recent cases, one of which was Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt (2016), which challenged Texas' ability to mandate that two abortion clinics require their physicians to have admitting privileges at local hospitals, and that the facilities themselves be upgraded to meet the standards for an ambulatory surgical center, neither of which is necessary to perform abortions safely. After a win on both objections at the trial level, the Fifth Circuit reversed, ruling that a prior losing challenge to the law before it went into effect barred Whole Woman's Health from raising the matter again, except as regarding the two plaintiff clinics here, claiming that if the Fifth Circuit allowed the district court to grant relief, it would be granting "more relief than anyone requested or briefed." The U.S. Supreme Court essentially called the Fifth Circuit's "logic" horseshit, since the clinics, in addition to their other claims, had also asked for "such other and further relief as the Court may deem just, proper, and equitable," which allowed the district court ruling to be expansiveand which, Judge Baylson later noted, was essentially the same phrase also pled in Free Speech's 2257 case.

As particularly applicable to the current 2257 case, the high court ruled in Whole Woman's Health that, " Nothing prevents this Court from awarding facial relief as the appropriate remedy for petitioners as-applied claims ." [Emphasis in original]

The final case the judge considered for his ruling was Knick v. Twp. of Scott, a 2017 case in which a landowner had sued the township because one of its officials had entered her property without a warrant and looked for evidence of an old burial ground there. She also claimed that a township ordinance opening such graveyards to the public amounted to an unconstitutional taking of her land under the Fifth Amendment. When the case reached the Third Circuit, it ruled that the township official's "search" had been of an open field, and therefore there was no Fourth Amendment violation, and in dealing with her facial challenge to the township ordinance under the Fifth Amendment, the Third Circuit panel discussed the distinctions between as-applied and facial challengesand took advice from the Supreme Court's Citizens United case and the same law review article they had quoted therein, Prof. Richard Fallon's.

"As a general matter  there is no requirement that a facial challenge be accompanied by an as-applied challenge. Litigants with standing to challenge a law have considerable 'flexibility ... to shape the issues in litigation,'" the Third Circuit had written, quoting Fallon. "Litigants may argue that the law cannot be constitutionally applied to them due to some particular set of facts or circumstances (an as-applied challenge), that the law is unconstitutional in every application, including their own (a facial challenge), or both"

The judge also noted that the Third Circuit panel in the Knick case had quoted its own ruling in the Free Speech Coalition case, where it noted, "the plaintiffs demonstrated an imminent risk that they would be subjected to an allegedly unconstitutional inspection regime. Their rights likewise turned on the facial validity of the law in question."

But taking his cue from the Supreme Court's opinion in Whole Woman's Health, Judge Baylson noted that, "under Count I, Plaintiffs assert that the Statutes and Regulations are unconstitutional both facially and as applied. The facial challenge to the Statutes constitutionality, as pled in the Amended Complaint, was therefore not limited to a facial overbreadth theory, which was pled in Count III," and again noting that, "As in Whole Womans Health, in their prayer for relief, Plaintiffs requested '[s]uch other legal and equitable relief to which Plaintiffs may appear entitled.'"

Finally, Judge Baylson concluded, "For a number of independent reasons, the Court has decided to grant the form of relief as requested by the Plaintiffs. In the first place, this is not a single plaintiff case. In some of the cases the Defendant relies on, there have been only one or a few plaintiffs, and the facts alleged are common to all plaintiffs. Here, as noted above, there are numerous Plaintiffs, representing many different aspects of the adult pornography industry. The Plaintiffs could have, and perhaps should have, brought the case as a class action, but the absence of a class does not, as a matter of law, limit the Courts ability in issuing a final decree that is fair to the parties and represents the legal reasoning as set forth by this Court in several existing opinions, and in several opinions by the Third Circuit.

"This entire litigation was supported by many different plaintiffs involved in basically all aspects of the adult pornography industry," Judge Baylson continued. "The Plaintiffs include producers, performers, artists, promotorsand the trial testimony disclosed their activities in significant detail. Thus, the Courts decision, holding at least some aspects of the Statutes and regulations, invalid under the First Amendment, considered, in practical effect, a trial record concerning all aspects of the adult pornography industry. Indeed, in the recent recorded telephone conference with counsel, Government counsel could not detail any aspect of the adult pornography industry that would be unaffected by this Courts ruling, and still be subject to valid and constitutional enforcement of all aspects of the Statutes in the future. In addition, the Third Circuit has already struck down one aspect of the Statute as unconstitutional under the Fourth Amendment, and although it did not enter a final judgment, the clear import of the Third Circuits ruling was that the Government could not enforce the search and seizure provisions of the Statute against anyone, not just the individual Plaintiffs."

Judge Baylson went on to specifically note the several references to Prof. Fallon's article, stating, "He [Fallon] describes what is basically a doctrinal and jurisprudential quagmire, resulting from confusions in decisions of the Supreme Court and the Circuit Courts. This Court concludes, in its discretion, that there is no longer a strict dividing line between the relief that would be proper when a statute is facially unconstitutional, as opposed to a statute being declared unconstitutional 'as applied.' The Supreme Court has basically noted with approval many of the points made by Professor Fallon and the underlined sentence in the Whole Womans Health case, above, gives this Court authority to enter the relief sought by Plaintiffs."

The import of that relief can be found here. Free Speech Coalition, which has fought for relief from the onerous 2257 laws for more than 14 years, would appreciate any donations to that ongoing effort. Such donations may be made here.
BARCELONA  ExoClick has signed an exclusive deal with publisher Tnaflix network.

The deal is for all mobile and desktop traffic across their full network of sites, including tube sites Tnafix.com and Empflix.com, and community site Imagefap.com.

With over 100m daily impressions, the websites are popular in all English speaking GEOs, as well as DE, FR, IT, and Asia. Ad zones include Banners, Interstitials, In-stream video, NTVs, Native, Popunders, Instant Message, and more.

Evangelos Zirdelis, ExoClicks Sales and Ad Operations Director commented, We are very happy to have the Tnaflix network back on ExoClick. All sources have premium traffic and are globally recognised adult brands. The range of different ad zones on desktop and mobile ensure that advertisers with the right creatives and offers can increase their conversions.

Visit ExoClick's admin panel marketplace to purchase these ad spots.
Family-owned bakery Aulds has closed four shops with 26 staff made redundant as it liquidates its retail arm to focus on the wholesale and production operation.

The business revealed its plans last week with Paul Dounis and Steve Ross of RSM Restructuring Advisory LLP appointed joint liquidators of the retail arm of the group, Thomas Auld & Sons Limited, on 2 August.

Following appointment, the liquidators assessed the position of business and took the decision to close four stores  Renfrew, Kilmarnock, Irvine and Ayr  to reduce losses. All affected staff have been contacted and their claims are being dealt with by the Redundancy Payments Service.

It is with profound regret that 26 employees of this historic business have been made redundant with immediate effect, and we are working with local and national organisations to support those employees to process claims as quickly as possible, said Paul Dounis, RSM restructuring advisory partner and provisional liquidator.

The ongoing pressure facing the high street has been well documented, with high-profile names entering distressed situations. Unfortunately, this difficult trading environment has led to another blow for the high street. The retail business is well known in the sector and we would ask any parties with an interest in acquiring the business to get in touch with us as soon as possible.

The liquidators will continue to assess the remaining 22 stores in Aulds portfolio with a view to selling all or some of them as a going concern to enhance value and safeguard as many jobs as possible.

These will continue to trade during this period and Aulds bakery products will still be available as normal in 50 Scotmid stores throughout Scotland, as well as from other independent outlets where they are currently sold.

The liquidation will not affect the groups two other subsidiary companies: Aulds Bakeries Limited, which manufactures fresh and frozen bakery at the firms Greenock site; and Aulds Delicious Desserts, which has a manufacturing facility at Inchinnan.
Two former members of the university's board of trustees recommended Tom Fetzer as interim chancellor at Western Carolina University, Fetzer told Carolina Journal after the UNC Board of Governors July 27 meeting in Chapel Hill.Fetzer is a member of the Board of Governors, lobbyist, former member of the WCU Board of Trustees, former Raleigh mayor, and long-time Republican activist and consultant.The news follows arguments among BOG members, some of whom have openly berated Fetzer for allegedly meddling in the search for a new WCU chancellor. The WCU chancellor's position became open June 17. Former Chancellor David Belcher, a leader beloved by many in the UNC community, died after a two-year battle with brain cancer.After Belcher's death, Fetzer was open to becoming interim chancellor, but UNC President Margaret Spellings instead selected WCU Provost Alison Morrison-Shetlar. It was a "superb appointment," Fetzer told CJ.On July 12, the board was set to vote on a candidate appointed by Spellings. But after two hours in closed session, no vote was taken. The undisclosed chancellor appointee withdrew from consideration a few days later, and the board announced it would restart the search process.Fetzer is largely to blame for the disruption, Lou Bissette, the board's former chairman, said during a July 26 BOG committee meeting in Chapel Hill. a story from the News and Observer says.Email records obtained by CJ show Fetzer hired an outside firm to investigate Spellings' candidate after reviewing the appointee's CV.Fetzer wrote July 11.Fetzer contacted a friend at QVerity, a consulting firm staffed by former CIA personnel. He released the WCU chancellor candidate's name to the firm, which performed a "preliminary review."Some board members said Fetzer was wrong to share the name of the appointee with outside counsel.Fetzer defended the action, citing legal requirements that any state employee be thoroughly vetted.UNC runs background checks on every chancellor appointee and completed a review of the WCU candidate, university officials confirmed.Fetzer confirmed to CJ that other board members knew he was taking the name of the appointee to an outside firm, but refused to disclose names.CJ asked Fetzer whether he offered himself as a candidate for the WCU chancellorship.he said.The chancellor search so far has cost $100,000, and more expenses may be incurred, said Spellings.
Should Beaufort County's commissioners be resolved to ask the federal government to defend our Southern Border by ending the Biden /Harris Open Border policy in regards to that one border that is intentionally made OPEN?

Yes, Illegal Migrants are a huge expense to local governments.

No, the cost of Undocumented Immigrants is insignificant in providing a pathway for the "Browning of America".
Legal notices

1) The material on this blog has been created by W. Blake Gray, is protected under US copyright law and cannot be used without his permission.



2) To the FTC: In the course of my work, I accept free samples, meals and other considerations. I do not trade positive reviews or coverage for money or any financial considerations, unlike certain famous print publications which have for-profit wine clubs but, because they are not classified as "bloggers," are not required by the FTC to post a notice like this.


The tweet has been removed and apologies made concerning this threatening message, depicting a Canadian airliner aimed at the CN Tower in Toronto, a response to Canadian criticism of Saudi Arabia's spectacularly grim human rights record.

A Saudi Arabian organization is apologizing after posting an image on Twitter appearing to show an Air Canada plane heading toward the CN Tower in a way that is reminiscent of the 9/11 attacks in the U.S.  The Infographic KSA account is verified by Twitter and has over 350,000 followers, with another 88,000 on Instagram. It has a history of posting messages that are supportive of the Saudi government.

What could be more emblematic of the spendthrift incompetence of the new Saudi Arabian regime than threatening to crash a jetliner into a radio mast?


There's been a lot of news freakout over Defense Distributed (previously) and "3D printed guns" (a term that confusingly encompasses milled guns, 3D printed guns, and files that describe the shapes of guns).

But there's been precious little about the actual legal principles in play and the stakes they raise. That's a pity, because however you feel about guns (disclosure: I don't own a gun, have never owned a gun, and favor strong gun control), the legal fight is nothing short of bizarre and implicates all technical knowledge, not just (or even primarily) guns.





When Defense Distributed posted its first 3D printable gun files, the State Department ordered the files to be taken down, arguing that export control rules gave them the power to remove any technical information, with no legal oversight, no objective standards for what could be removed, and no deadlines to explain the order or rescind it.





These export controls were longstanding, but they had always applied to devices, not information. Under the US government's theory, they could censor virtually any online speech simply by declaring the censorship orders to be "advisable."

There are obvious problems with this legal theory, problems that have nothing to do with guns. Presumably, that's how Defense Distributed was able to get the State Department to walk back its actions (and arguably overstep in the other direction by failing to solicit public comment on a major shift in policy).

In the meantime, Defense Distributed's files had become widely distributed, mirrored across the web in multiple jurisdictions  meaning that even if the US government hadn't caved on its export control gambit, taking down Defense Distributed's files would have had an unmeasurably tiny effect on the availability of files for 3D printing guns.

Now that Defense Distributed has won a license to distribute those files  in addition to all the other people, inside and outside the USA, who were already hosting them  the states have gotten in on the act with several attorneys general suing the US government. They've advanced a number of legal theories about why the feds are in the wrong: the strongest argument is that the State Department didn't publish a notice and solicit public comment before changing its rules. A weaker argument  and again, a potentially dangerous one  is that technical information about guns is a "nuisance" and thus should be censored.

This is a dangerous argument for the same reason that the federal government's export control theory was dangerous: it gives the government virtually unlimited power to censor speech, without any objective standards, legal oversight, or due process rights.

I'm personally not very happy about any of this. I think that the American gun control debate is distorted by the monied gun lobby and the years of disinformation and paranoia  so much of it openly racist  it had fed to gun advocates.

I'm also keenly aware that "hard cases make bad law": when abusing a law gives the government the power to do something politically popular, they're tempted to stretch the law to score political points (or, more charitably, to stop some undesirable thing by any available means). The problem is that the next time the state decides to censor something on the internet in the name of export controls or creating a nuisance, we'll be operating on the precedent set by the most emotive, polarizing circumstances (that is, 3D printed guns).





I think that Defense Distributed is making the same bet, but they calculate the odds differently. While I fear that tying the future of the free and open internet to guns puts the internet at risk, Defense Distributed seems to be betting that there are so many diehard firearms partisans that tying an internet freedom question to the Second Amendment will create an unstoppable coalition that will lock the internet open.

Meanwhile, the entire debate continues to be mischaracterized as "stopping 3D printed guns." That debate was settled in 2012 when the files were first published and mirrored all over the world, outside of the US government's control. Whether or not Defense Distributed hosts the files in question or not, people who want to 3D print guns will 3D print guns.

And, of course: 3D printing a gun is arguably the most expensive, least convenient way to get a gun in America, which is awash in guns, a fact that (once again), I keenly regret and want to do something about. But if the problem is real, that's all the more reason to reject solutions are are unreal  incoherent political grandstanding and legal overreach inevitably have a price-tag of their own, and with 3D printed guns, it's all price, no benefit, because none of these measures will have any impact on the availability of guns  3D printed or otherwise.

Even when heady interests such as national security or physical harm are potentially at stake, the government has a heavy burden to prove the urgency of the harm and the appropriateness of a speech restriction as the proper remedy. It's generally not appropriate to order one person not to publish material that is readily available elsewhere. The government has a history of characterizing ideas as dangerous in an attempt to suppress speech about those technologies and ideas. First Amendment standards ensure that speech cannot be suppressed as an easy measure of first resort, or where those speech constraints aren't necessary to address a proven harm or effective at addressing that harm. If the states in this case are successful, they will bypass legal doctrines that we rely on to protect your right to encrypt and your right to advocate for social change. The arguments from the states are clear on this point  the states are arguing that the government should be required to prevent publication because foreigners abroad might do things that the U.S. opposes and they are arguing that the courts themselves should order the designs to be kept offline because people might make the guns and use them in domestic crimes. These arguments are dangerous because they threaten to empower current (and future) U.S. government officials to play pre-publication gatekeeper of what information you can publish online based on the barest, unproven claim of national interest or the possibility that others might use your information to further crimes. It could bar us from publishing and discussing artificial intelligence technologies, something that has increasing importance to our online lives and even how the government makes decisions about bail and sentencing. It could censor information about how to survive a chemical weapons attack. It could force us to compromise our secure communications technologies, making our personal information vulnerable to unlawful surveillance and identity theft.



Internet Publication of 3D Printing Files About Guns: Facts and What's at Stake

[Kit Walsh/EFF]
The UK Committees of Advertising Practice changed the rules for ISP advertising: where once the ISPs could advertise speeds of "Up to" some incredibly high number so long as 10% of customers ever achieved that speed, now ISPs can only advertise a speed promise if 51% of their customers attain that speed at all times.



Which? magazine published an analysis of ISP ads before and after the rule and found that advertised speeds dropped by 41%; earlier polling by the magazine found that "British households are paying for broadband services that are on average 51 percent slower than advertised."





If you're in the UK and looking for a genuinely excellent ISP that delivers on its promises, I thoroughly recommend the wonderful Andrews and Arnold; I was a happy customer of theirs for years when I was a Londoner. They even successfully intervened with the farcically terrible BT Openreach on my behalf, an act of commercial sorcery on par with levitating the Gherkin or successfully taxing Starbucks.
The City of New York has declared that all calls from its city jails will henceforth be free; meaning the city will forego the $5,000,000 it took from prisoners and their families every year.



Prison guard union spokesjailers were unhappy about the news, claiming that allowing incarcerated people (including people awaiting trial, who had not been convicted of any crime) to communicate with the outside world regardless of their personal or familial finances was a gift to drug kingpins and gangsters, who would take advantage of the policy to direct their free associates on the outside (because, apparently, running a giant criminal enterprise doesn't generate enough surplus capital to pay for phone calls).

The welcome move comes against a backdrop of worsening communications options for state and federal prisoners, including those in New York State, who are ransomed to corrupt companies like Jpay, who gouge prisoners and their families for all outside communications.



Lawrence Bartley, a program assistant with the Corrections Accountability Project who pushed for the bill to pass, saw how important the phones were firsthand. He was released from state prison 90 days ago, after spending 27 years behind bars. He said his family spent thousands of dollars on phone calls to stay in touch with him. "It cost us a lot of money to call home, for Christmas, for my kids' birthdays, helping them out, for moral support, being a father, to help them make decisions," he said. When he was first imprisoned, at age 17, he used the phone to talk with his high school sweetheart. He ended up marrying her, and they had two children together. "I spent a lot of time just dreaming about the moment to get on the call with her," he said. "Without her, I don't know if I would have ever made it home."

Phone Calls From New York City Jails Will Soon Be Free [Zoe Greenberg/New York Times]





(Thanks, Xeni!)





(Image: Eden Janine and Jim, CC-BY)
I'm on the latest episode of Torrentfreak's Steal This Show podcast (MP3), where I talk with host Jamie King about "Whether file-sharing & P2P communities have lost the battle to streaming services like Netflix and Spotify, and why the 'copyfight' is still important; how the European Copyright Directive eats at the fabric of the Web, making it even harder to compete with content giants; and why breaking up companies like Google and Facebook might be the only way to restore an internet  and a society  we can all live with."
Mitochindrial replacement techniques, which produce "three-parent babies," promise to allow infertile couples to have babies, and even allow people with debilitating genetic disorders to have healthy babies. The largely unregulated tech is already producing babies despite the unknown long-term risks.

Via Medium:

To date, at least five babies who have the DNA of three people have been born using MRT (and at least one is a girl, which means that her genome changes will be heritable). Experts don't know if there other MRT babies are out there, but with ongoing regulated clinical trials of the techniques in the UK, there may soon be more.

Forty years after the birth of Louise Brown, the first "test-tube baby," we are living in a golden age of fertility tech. Even its detractors agree that MRT is an astonishing development in medical science  human genetic engineering in action. And it's just one among a rash of new fertility techniques that stand to fundamentally change how humans procreate: live-donor uterus transplants, preimplantation genetic testing and selection, egg freezing, hyperprecise in vitro fertilization (IVF), CRISPR genome editing, in vitro gametogenesis (which uses reverse-engineered stem cells to make eggs and sperm from men), and the list goes on.

The U.S. government has made it clear it has no interest in approving MRT anytime soon, stalling the industry stateside, but the international fertility industry is booming. Medical tourism is a global market valued at $68 billion, and experts say a growing portion of that business comes from people traveling overseas to get frontier fertility treatments that are illegal at their home base.
Donald Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame has become a honeypot for vandals, MAGA-hat cretins, and all sorts of shenanigans, so the West Hollywood City Council unanimously voted to remove it permanently.

Via Los Angeles Times:

The resolution, put forth by West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tem John D'Amico and Councilwoman Lindsey Horvath, urges the city of Los Angeles  where the star is located  and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to remove the marker "due to [Trump's] disturbing treatment of women and other actions."

That's going to cause quite a stir.

West Hollywood wants to remove Trump star from Walk of Fame (Los Angeles Times)
The relationship between Robert Marawa and Pitso Mosimane is strained, to put it mildly. The two had a very awkward few moments between them before and after a Mamelodi Sundowns-Kaizer Chiefs game and South Africans reacted to it.

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Saturday's match saw the feud between the 2 men reach new levels when interviews between them were intensely awkward.

In fact, IOL News reported it as "two of the most awkward interviews ever seen at a PSL match".

The first awkward interview happened during the pre-match chat at Loftus Versfeld. It was the first game of the new season and Kaizer Chiefs were facing Mamelodi Sundowns.

Mosimane seemed off-ish and didn't look like he felt like giving thorough answers to the questions asked by Marawa.

But the most talked about moments came after the match. The teams ended with a 1-1 draw and Marawa asked the usual post-match questions.

Then Mosimane asked who chose the Man of the Match.

Can I ask who chooses the Man of the Match. Is it SMSs like in the Shell Cup? Who chooses the Man of the Match?

After Marawa answered that Khama Billiat was chosen by the commentators as the Man of the Match, he asked why Mosimane wanted to know.

With dramatic flair, Mosimane answered: "What did he do?" and walked away.

This incident got South Africans taking to social media to comment on it.

Some tweeps felt Mosimane was being unprofessional, while others thought Marawa should be replaced.

READ ALSO: 3 apartheid ministers named as central figures in a paedophilia ring

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News / National

by Simbarashe Sithole

Norton legislator Temba Mliswa has mocked controversial businessman and Intratrek Private Limited director Wicknel Chivhayo for taking pictures with president Mnangagwa as a way of trying to evade justice.Mliswa as the Chairman of the Parliamentary portfolio committee on Mines and Energy has been at the forefront of the crusade seeking answers from Chivhayo over the Gwanda Solar energy project.Mliswa said, "Taking pictures with ED doesn't guarantee immunity as Chivhayo has found out when denied bail & returned to remand. WE WANT OUR MONEY BACK! Justice must prevail & the outcome of this case is eagerly awaited."Chivhayo is being accused of defrauding the Zimbabwe Power Company of over $5 million. The charges range from money laundering and violating the exchange control regulations.He was remanded in custody to 17 August, pending trial by Harare magistrate Elisha Singano yesterday.
News / National

by BBC

Zim court sets free all 27 opposition supporters on $50 bail. pic.twitter.com/CR3UX5KJnz  ZLHR (@ZLHRLawyers) August 7, 2018

A group of opposition activists who were arrested and charged with inciting public violence last week have been released on bail by Harare Magistrates Court, say Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights.Last Wednesday, security forces opened fire on demonstrators who had gathered in Harare to protest against alleged vote-rigging in Monday's elections. Six people were killed in the violence.An earlier effort to release the 27 MDC Alliance activists on bail had failed.The BBC's Shingai Nyoka says no court date has yet been set and the group have maintained their innocence.
News / National

by Staff reporter

POLICE are keen to interview nine political persons in connection with the disturbance that left six dead and burning of vehicles in the capital last week.The nine Tendai Biti, Happymore Chidziva, Morgan Komichi, Jim Kunaka, Paddington Japajapa, Mafaiti Mubaiwa, Jeff Tafadzwa Chaitezvi, Lovejoy Chitengu and Chamunorwa Madya are on the list of persons sought after by police.Criminal Investigations Department spokesperson, Detective Inspector Portia Chinho confirmed the list urging the suspects to report to police law and order department."The nine suspects are wanted by police for contravening Section 37 of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act, Chapter 9:23," said Detective Inspector Chinho."That is participating in a gathering with intent to promote public violence, breaches of the peace or bigotry," she said.Police reiterated few days before the harmonized elections that its intelligence had gathered facts that some political parties have deployed groups of people to certain parts of the country with the view of carrying out these unlawful attacks urging them to follow proper procedures to air their concerns or to approach courts instead of resorting to violence.Men, among them street kids were caught on camera holding stones, knobkerries and iron bars and torching vehicles last Wednesday.Before that Biti had appeared before the media saying,"The MDC Alliance position: we will not accept any result other than ours because the people have spoken, you have seen our rallies . . . so if they cheat us THEY WILL HAVE TO KILL US ON THE STREETS . . ." the video of Biti saying this went viral on social media platforms.Paddington Japajapa followed that up with a video where he made threats outside the ZEC command centre also trending on social media.Below is Paddington Japajapa's statement in full . . ."If people come to rallies it means they appreciate the candidate, you cannot follow a candidate whom you cannot vote for.So we are saying all those people who were coming for example in Mkoba the Stadium was full to capacity with more than 45 000 people.In Mutare I attended, in Masvingo I attended. Chamisa was pulling more than 30- 40 000 and now we are seeing a different scenario altogether.So we are saying, as people of Zimbabwe, this is a watershed election it's a do or die we are not going to accept this rubbish.ZEC must do the right thing by announcing the proper results. Failure to do this as a leader of a Civic organisation I am going to call for chaos in this country, we are not concerned about the consequences, we want the right thing to be done."And we are going to have an audit of this election and if there are any irregularities I am sorry as civic society organisations we are not going to accept this rubbish."Uchingoona kubvira pane seven announced aya unotoona kuti maelections aya akutobirirrwa kare, manyepo aya"
News / National

by BBC

Zimbabwe's government has set this Sunday, 12 August, as the date for president-elect Emmerson Mnangagwa's inauguration following a disputed election.There have been deadly protests and accusations of rigging but no formal or legal challenge to Mr Mnangagwa's win has been mounted.The main opposition MDC Alliance is yet to lodge its court application contesting the results, but has until Friday's deadline to do so.The party says the poll was manipulated to deny its leader the presidency.Among its claims are that ballot boxes were stuffed, and that numbers were deflated for their candidate Nelson Chamisa and inflated for President-elect Emmerson Mnangagwa.If the MDC Alliance lodges an application challenging the election result and the courts decide that the group has a case, then the inauguration could be put on hold.
News / National

by Simbarashe Sithole

Senator David Coltart castigated ZANU PF saying the party is using the law as a weapon rather than an instrument of justice after several MDC Alliance members are reportedly in hiding of security agents."ZANUPF has always used law as a weapon rather than an instrument of justice. Nothing has changed @Biti Tendai is being hunted down as a criminal for expressing an opinion about the elections. Soldiers who shot innocent by standers in back in cold blood have got away scot free," reads Coltart tweet.Apparently, MDC Alliance co-principal Tendai Biti ,party chairperson Morgen Komichi and youth leader Happymore Chidziva are among several party leaders who are reportedly in hiding following the crackdown by suspected state security agents.
Opinion / Columnist

Last week's national elections in Zimbabwe were a critical test of whether President Emmerson Mnangagwa was really prepared to lead the revival of a country brought to ruin by his autocratic predecessor, Robert Mugabe. So far, the aftermath of the elections that gave Mr. Mnangagwa and the governing Zanu-PF party at least five more years in power has given little reason for celebration.International observers charged that the playing field was not even, with coverage on state media, misuse of state resources and intimidation working in the government's favor. Even before the results were in, Mr. Mnangagwa's 40-year-old opponent, Nelson Chamisa, claimed fraud and pledged to challenge the results.Still, huge numbers of voters turned out on July 30, and a host of observers spread across the country reported that the voting was a marked improvement on the systematic rigging and violence that characterized elections under Mr. Mugabe. But a delay in announcing the results of the presidential race sent suspicious opposition members into the streets, where soldiers opened fire and killed at least six. And when the electoral commission announced four days after the voting that Mr. Mnangagwa had secured 50.8 percent of the vote - just over the threshold for an outright victory - tensions rose even further, with numerous reports of beatings and harassment of opposition members.Mr. Mnangagwa has pledged to investigate the violence, and it may be that he and his party did win roughly what the official vote count claimed. But victory was only one of Mr. Mnangagwa's goals in the elections. The other, potentially more important, was to offer free and fair elections as convincing proof to the international community that Zimbabwe was ready to start anew.That was a tough sell from the outset. Mr. Mnangagwa had been Mr. Mugabe's enforcer (hence his nickname, "Crocodile") and lieutenant for decades and so shared responsibility for many of the disastrous and brutal policies that had decimated Zimbabwe's economy, despite its mineral riches and well-educated work force.Mr. Mnangagwa also assumed the presidency and the leadership of Zanu-PF last November after a power struggle with Mr. Mugabe's wife, which was resolved in his favor by a military coup. Not surprisingly, many Zimbabweans were not convinced that there would be a major difference between the 94-year-old despot and his 75-year-old ex-sidekick.There is little likelihood that Zimbabwe's electoral commission or courts will overturn the results, posing a difficult choice to the International Monetary Fund and other donors and investors whose help is desperately needed to sort out an economic mess that has sent more than a quarter of Zimbabwe's citizens abroad to work.Mr. Mnangagwa, Zanu-PF and the military have not yet struck out. They still benefit from the hope that Mr. Mugabe's fall turned the page for Zimbabwe, and the country can finally reclaim the stability and prosperity its natural resources and educated population should have.To keep what remains of that hope alive, Mr. Mugabe's successors must urgently lift the questions and doubts that the elections only intensified. If he is to have any credibility, President Mnangagwa must urgently rein in the military, condemn and halt the harassment of his opponents and make the election tabulations publicly available.Follow The New York Times Opinion section on Facebook and Twitter (@NYTOpinion), and sign up for the Opinion Today newsletter.
A New French Law Criminalizes Street Harassment

France is officially making moves to put an end to street harassment with a new law, passed August 1, that forces catcallers to pay fines for harassing and assaulting women on the street and on public transit. The legislation will go into effect this September, reports USA Today, and will also crack down on similar gendered harassment, including sexual assault and upskirtingphotos taken under womens clothing without consent.

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Men who make sexual and sexist comments could be fined up to 750 euros (the equivalent of roughly $868). Those who take upskirt photos could be fined a significantly larger amountaround 15,000 euros, or $17,380. According to The Cut, the last major part of the bill will extend that statute of limitations for reporting child sexual assault to 30 years after the survivor turns 18. It was previously 20 years.

French President Emmanuel Macron has been trying to fix the countrys sexual assault climate, writes the Associated Press, but this necessary legislation was prioritized further after a student named Marie Laguerre shared footage of a man yelling at her in July. After Laguerre turned around to respond, the man slapped her.

Because I responded to his harassment, a man hit me in the middle of the street in the middle of a day, in front of dozens of witnesses. Unacceptable. Stop the street bullying, she wrote (translated from French) on Twitter.

The bill is a significant step for France, a country with a hyper-romantic, sexualized reputation. Just earlier this year, 100 powerful French women including actress Catherine Deneuve wrote an open letter fighting against the #MeToo movement. Rape is a crime, but trying to seduce someone, even awkwardly, is not, nor is being gallant a macho aggression, they wrote, according to The Atlantic. Were aware enough today to admit that the sex drive is by nature offensive and savage, but were also clear-eyed enough not to confuse an awkward pickup with sexual aggression.

The lawmakers who helped write and pass the act, though, arent afraid to directly addressand challengewhats become the norm in French culture. We want to preserve seduction, chivalry, and lamour a la francaise by saying what is key is consent, gender equality minister Marlene Schiappa told Europe 1 Radio. Whats key is that the laws of the French republic forbid insulting, threatening, and following women in public spaces.

However, ABC News writes that in a recent interview with the Associated Press, Laguerre said the legislation is almost a joke, and not nearly enough to stop the problem of street harassment.

I dont think its realistic because it means having police officers on every street, she said. The law sends a message, but for me, its not enough.

Top photo via Flickr Creative Commons / Jeanne Menjoulet

More from BUST

Men Who Catcall Women Say Women Like Being Sexually Harassed

A Personal History Of Sexual Harassment

These French Teachers Are Fighting Sexism Through Gender-Neutral Language

Lydia Wang is a writer, a Pisces, and one of BUST's digital editors. Find her on Twitter or say hi: lydiaw@bust.com.
Amazon Gold Box Deals For August 7, 2018

Presenting All Of Today's Best Amazon Gold Box Deals

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Iron Man Suits Are Now A Thing You Can Buy

Trending News: Want To Own An Iron Man Suit? Now You Can

Why Is This Important?

People have been wanting to fly forever. Some of historys smartest minds spent their lives trying to conquer gravity to give humanity the sensation of weightless, controlled flight.

Long Story Short

While were not all the way to being able to pick up a jet suit at Best Buy and wear it out, were closer than ever to making this sci-fi fantasy a reality thanks to modern-day inventors like Richard Browning.

Richard Browning / Gravity

Long Story

Brownings story could easily be ripped from the weathered pages of an old Marvel comic book. A charismatic inventor, fuelled in part by family tragedy (his father was an aeronautical engineer who took his own life when Browning was 15), creates a flying suit that changes the world. Sounds exactly like you-know-who from the MCU doesnt it?



The similarities are almost too uncanny. Watching Brownings early test footage, its impossible not to be reminded of Robert Downey Jr.s Stark, testing his own suit and failing over and over again. Brownings earliest attempts at a jet suit came by attaching micro gas turbines to his forearms to give him the vertical thrust necessary to take and maintain flight.

Marvel Studios





Browning and his team went through multiple iterations of the suit as they practiced flying in isolated farmlands in the UK. First they tried attaching three turbines per arm, but it was way too heavy. Then they tried mounting a few to his lower legs, but Browning couldnt control himself very well by maneuvering his legs. Eventually, they landed on the magical combination of two turbines per arm and another on the back. This allowed the wearer to control their movements intuitively with their arms while offering enough upward thrust.

Richard Browning / Gravity



Perhaps the craziest part of this story is that were now at a place where these suits are actually on sale. Browning and his company Gravity will make a bespoke flight suit for you for nearly half a million dollars (if you want to live like Tony Stark, its going to cost Tony Stark money).



Fortunately, for us everyday civilians who arent selling arms to bankroll a life of avenging, you can head to Gravitys Flight Training Center outside of London and fly around in a controlled environment without having to sell a kidney. Gravity is expected to open new flight centers in Dubai and California shortly and theres even rumblings of a new racing league that will be centered around competitors wearing these jet suits.



The future is looking particularly bright for anyone who wants to soar like a superhero.
The Watch Snob Discusses The Golden Rule

The AskMen editorial team thoroughly researches & reviews the best gear, services and staples for life. AskMen may get paid if you click a link in this article and buy a product or service.

Enamel Paint Just Aint Enamel

My question is about enameled dial watches, which I find to be very interesting. I recently purchased a Seiko Presage Multi Hand Automatic with a beautiful white enameled dial. The price was a very good value and I honestly wondered if Seiko could really produce such a watch at this price point with their usual quality fit and finish. But the watch is beautiful, functional, keeps precise time, and has become one of my favorite watches. Everything I have read about the enameling process says that it is very difficult to do well, which begs the question how does Seiko do it?

I also stumbled recently onto a website for the German brand Tourby, which I have never heard of before. Looking through their offering of watches with enameled dials (and even several with Guilloche dials) I found that are very handsome and again, very reasonably priced given the type of workmanship involved. These watches use ETA movements, which I remember you have commented positively on in the past. Have you any experience with this brand and is it a case of if it seems to good to be true, it probably is too good to be true?

In the latter case, yes, if it seems too good to be true, it is. The dials on the Tourby enamel models is not, as far as I can tell, true fired enamel; rather, they seem to be using what is sometimes called cold enamel in the watch industry. The tip-off is that they use the term enamel paint  enamel is not a paint, but a kind of glass surface created by applying a glass powder to a copper or gold base, and then firing the dial. The temperatures reached are high enough to liquify the powder which then forms a smooth surface. Decorative variations on fired enamel are vast  there are many techniques using colored enamels which can create very beautiful effects.

Enamel paint, probably means the same thing as cold enamel  its a thermosetting epoxy resin. The effect can be very pleasing, but its not real fired enamel.

For the Presage, in order to make the watch affordable Seiko was obliged to develop a process that would allow the dials to be coated with enamel powder in groups  the process basically involves a spraying tool, which is manually guided over a dial-holder; the coated dials are then fired as a group. They seem to have worked out how to control the coating thickness and kiln temperature so as to produce reliable results. It really is a remarkable achievement  fired enamel dials generally are done one at a time and at a considerably higher cost and I think they represent an amazing value for the money.

That Sure Is A Niche Complication

Recently you wrote about the charm of Monopushers. Other than Minerva & Vacheron, are there any other interesting Monopushers worth looking at?

There are a few, yes, but its rather a niche complication  the greater convenience and utility of the traditional two button design, means that the monopusher is rather more interesting to a relatively few collectors with very specific, somewhat reactionary tastes (I happen to like monopusher chronographs very much but there is no doubt that they are a very distant second in popularity to the two button chronograph).

One interesting monopusher is from F. P. Journe  it is a rattrapante monopusher chronograph, and while I havent had the chance to examine one myself, but the movement looks rather appealing although I think the overtly sportive styling is not Journe playing to his strengths. It also doesnt particularly look like a monopusher chronograph, unfortunately  there is a single start, stop, and reset button and a separate split button for the rattrapante function, but they are designed and situated so as to make the watch look very much like a standard two pusher chronograph.

Another interesting monopusher, by the way, and a quite wonderful value at the asking price, is from Habring  the Habring Doppel-Felix Split Seconds Chronograph is a very cleverly designed split seconds monopusher chrono, at an astonishingly affordable price.

The Golden Rule

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your articles for a great many year now, however I believe that perhaps there is one type of watch query you may not have already tackled, a halal ('permissible') one.

Let me explain, I am as you may have already guessed of the Islamic ilk. Unfortunately, part of my creed is that men should not wear gold at all, whether yellow, white or rose or any other variant.

I have just recently learned, to my surprise that my Rolex GMT Master II 116710 BLNR has 18K white gold indices and therefore I am having to offload this for a suitably halal watch. I am not one to question God's decree. The trouble that I have found in my search for a replacement is that when it comes to high horology, all of the manufacturers use an element of this precious metal. Whether it be in the faceplate of a silvered guilloche dial in a Stainless Steel Breguet Marine Big Date, the rotor and dial hands in a Urban Jurgensen Big 8, or even in the internal components within the movement of the Cartier Tortue CPCP in Platinum (yes, Platinum is absolutely fine). I visited JLC and the master watchmaker (I believe his name was Richard) in their Bond Street boutique confirmed that even the Polaris with its titanium rotor, has gold text embossed - rendering it impermissible. JLC further confirmed that even in their watches with closed backs, the gold text will remain. The trouble with most, if not all Platinum watches is that they will decorate some of the components with gold.

I am now struggling to find any high end dress watch within the 10 - 15K realm with the movement exposed.

Unfortunately I am not keen on brands like Longines, Nomos, Glashutte and although I respect Grand Seiko - it is not my cup of tea. I even looked at a vintage JLC Triple Calendar, however the 35mm face looked highly effeminate on my wrist (this is before I realized the dial hands were rose gold). Even the likes of the Vacheron Constantin Fifty Six in steel has this audacious of metals. I looked at a Blancpain Villeret in Platinum and unfortunately found the finish to the face to be unworthy of the price tag. If I had the funds to buy a Richard Mille, I simply would not, as it is not to my taste. I am also fearful of damaging most vintage watches due to their non sapphire glass.

I am starting to wonder if the iWatch or a digital Casio is what I'm left with, or perhaps to commission a jeweler to scrub out the gold text. With your vast knowledge I am hoping that you can guide me to something suitably special and halal.

Well, you are absolutely correct, I have never before encountered this question, although I was aware that among followers of the teachings of the Prophet (peace be upon him) the wearing of gold is considered haram. No ones ever asked me to see if I can find a watch with no trace of the substance whatsoever, though  in luxury watchmaking, its not ubiquitous, but its darned close. I thought I might see if by chance Lange & Sohne might have something but they use yellow gold chatons for the jewels in their movements; Patek and Vacheron use gold on the engraved text on their movements  this is a poser and no mistake.

The real problem is that if you eliminate not just watches with gold cases, dials, and hands, but also want a movement with no gold on it at all, your choices are somewhat diminished. The only thing I can suggest to you is to look carefully through the collections of the major makers and see if you can find models that have either steel or platinum cases, and which also have display backs so that you can see if there is gold decoration on the movement or not. I think there are some out there  Im looking just now at a picture of a Blancpain tourbillon in a platinum case which appears to have no gold on the movement (there are yellow metal parts, but I dont think they are gold or gold-plated). Only individual inspection and time will reveal if there is anything out there that both fits the law, and which appeals to your tastes. Given the number of gentlemen who are of the Faithful who are also interested in watches, however, it seems to me that there must be something out there that would suit. I will continue to hunt but I confess, as I rarely do, that I am for the moment stymied. Good luck!

Send the Watch Snob your questions at [email protected] or ask a question on Instagram with the #watchsnob hashtag.

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Photo - Talking on the beach walk is certainly a British thing!

A major News.com story not that long ago highlights a doubling of British migrants to Australia this past decade compared to the previous one but the same cannot be said about those same numbers being reflected in church attendance.

The Department of Immigration and Borders (were you even aware there was such a name) says that its the biggest invasion of Britishers since the 1970s with 290,000 immigrants from the UK.

What is more informative is that there appears to be waves of immigrants with the Chinese at the turn of the twentieth century, Italians in the fifties, Vietnamese in the 80s and the British in the 90s and again at the present time.

The article quotes Alistair Thomson, professor of International Studies at Monash University who says he is not surprised by these numbers as when the economy it hard in the UK, that has a corresponding correlation to immigration to Australia.

Moreover, New Zealanders have headed to Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory and across the board, the three main categories as to why immigration has occurred has been associated with emotional issues such as bad break-ups, moving with family or work.

Since incorporating the New Zealand young writers into the Press Service International young emerging writer program I have become more acutely aware of many Kiwi's now living in Australia.

In this sense, many have migrated here as other family members are living in Australia such as parents; others have come because other family members are living in Australia and doing well economically, and some have come to work here.

Photo - Beach walk sketches are time immemorial from our earliest years

Churches experience

How are statistics accrued? Some by taking sample polls. Some by the Census analysis. In Christian circles there is annual survey form filled in by many congregations by Christian Research groups. Some of these are national, state or local.

In the sixties when the last great British migrant took place, there was a clear statistical rise in the numbers of church attenders as so many were Christian people who locked in with a local congregation of their ilk upon arrival.

This was always better witnessed at the local level than at a national level as it was the local level where these new church people made the difference. I can recall when at high school in Canberra and part of the Canberra Baptist Church that month after month there were church welcoming functions for new family arrivals from Britain.

There is nothing new or strange about such welcoming functions, they have been part of church life since populations became mobile. Even today in our own local congregation at Banora Point Baptist there are welcoming functions for new people to the church who have made the church their spiritual home.

The difference today from the sixties is that those migrating to Australia are themselves non-churched families so when they arrive, attending a church or linking in with a local congregation is not on their agenda.

The only groups that have retained this social networking are the Maori and Pacific Island Christian communities who have made Australia their home. Go to any Gold Coast Pentecostal church and you will find numerous such people worshipping. Moreover, there are any number of New Zealand and Pacific Island people groups who have established their own churches.

These statistics are showing up on the local scene and it cannot be missed. What it says is that the traditional British migrant is no longer seeking out their name sake Christian churches, rather this accolade is now firmly in the hands of New Zealand and Pacific Island national and people groups.

Photo - Petina Tieman giving a seminar  new wave of occupations

Dr Mark Tronson is a Baptist minister (retired) who served as the Australian cricket team chaplain for 17 years (2000 ret) and established Life After Cricket in 2001. He was recognised by the Olympic Ministry Medal in 2009 presented by Carl Lewis Olympian of the Century. He mentors young writers and has written 24 books, and enjoys writing. He is married to Delma, with four adult children and grand-children. Dr Tronson writes a daily article for Christian Today Australia (since 2008) and in November 2016 established Christian Today New Zealand.

Mark Tronson's archive of articles can be viewed at

http://www.pressserviceinternational.org/mark-tronson.html
TUESDAY, Aug. 7, 2018 (HealthDay News) -- Be sure to put vaccinations on your children's back-to-school lists, whether they're just starting school or heading off to college, experts say.

By protecting infants, children and teens from serious diseases, vaccinations also protect families, schools and communities.

"The best way to treat diseases is to prevent them in the first place, and the diseases on the vaccine schedule are all preventable for the vast majority of our population," said David Kimberlin, vice chair of pediatrics at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).

"The scientific evidence and public health statistics are comprehensive and compelling -- properly scheduled and dosed vaccines are safe and effective, and they're the reason we don't see diseases like measles or whooping cough running rampant across our country," Kimberlin said in a university news release.

Kimberlin is the American Academy of Pediatrics' liaison to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's advisory committee on immunization practices.

Immunization requirements vary by state. All have a minimum requirement for dosing each school year to attend public schools. Many require an updated immunization certificate before a child enters any public school or child care center.

Here's what else you should know:

All 50 states and the District of Columbia require vaccinations for diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, polio, measles and rubella.

49 states and D.C. also require mumps vaccination.

48 states and D.C. require varicella (chickenpox) vaccination. (Montana and Pennsylvania do not).

45 states and D.C. require hepatitis B vaccination to enter kindergarten. (Alabama, Maine, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota do not).

Some states require Hib (Haemophilus Influenzae Type b); PCV (pneumococcal); flu and hepatitits A vaccines to enter kindergarten.

Insurance covers school vaccinations. If you don't have insurance, your state health department can direct you to services that offer low-cost and/or free immunizations, said Dr. Rachael Lee, an assistant professor in the university's division of infectious diseases.

Vaccinations are available at doctor offices, pharmacies, health centers and local health departments.

College students require specific vaccinations and should check with their school to learn which ones they need, the UAB experts said.

Life-threatening infections such as meningococcal disease are more common among college-age people, but can be prevented through full vaccination, the experts said.

More information

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more on vaccines for children.
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On July 29, two students were killed, and 12 others injured when a bus plowed into a passengers waiting at a stop in Dhaka. Since then, daily demonstrations that started in Dhaka have spread throughout Bangladesh. Thousands of students have demonstrated on the streets of Dhaka at major traffic intersections, causing congestion that has nearly paralyzed the city according to The Straits Times. The protesters are calling for tighter control of the transport sector that is regarded by many as corrupt, dangerous and in need of regulation.

Protests intensified over the weekend, and more than 200 people were injured after police fired rubber bullets at protesters. More than a dozen journalists from various news organizations were attacked while documenting the protests, allegedly by police and supporters of the ruling Awami League party, according to news reports. Among them were several photojournalists who had their equipment damaged or destroyed, or who were forced to delete their photographs or video footage.

CPJs Emergencies Response Team issued the following safety advisory for journalists covering or planning to cover the protests in Bangladesh.

Basic preparedness:

Plan the assignment and ensure that you have a full battery on your mobile phone. Know the area you are going to. Work out in advance what you would do in an emergency.

Always try to work with a colleague and have a regular check-in procedure with your base. If you are a photographer, try to work with a partner who can keep their eyes on the street while you focus on shooting. It is easy to lose situational awareness while viewing a scene only through a lens.

Wear clothing and footwear that allows you to move swiftly. Avoid loose clothing and lanyards that can be grabbed as well as any flammable material (i.e. nylon). Wear camera straps on your shoulder, not your neck, to avoid being strangled if the camera is grabbed.

Consider your position. If you can, find an elevated position that might offer greater safety. Make sure elevated positions have multiple exit points, to avoid getting trapped.

At any location, always plan an evacuation route as well an emergency rendezvous point if you are working with others.

Maintain situational awareness at all times and limit valuables you are taking. Do not leave any equipment in vehicles as they are likely to be broken into. After dark, the criminal risk increases dramatically.

If working in a crowd, plan a strategy. It is sensible to keep to the outside of the crowd and dont get sucked into the middle where it is hard to escape. Identify an escape route, and have a team emergency meeting point if working with others.

If you are a photographer, consider carrying multiple CF or SD cards and switching them, so if your camera is stolen or you are forced to delete images, you dont lose a full days work. Consider carrying the extra cards in a money belt or tight pocket.

If dealing with tear gas:

Wear personal protective equipment

Individuals with asthma or respiratory issues should avoid areas where tear gas is being used. Likewise, contact lenses are not advisable. If large amounts of tear gas are being used, there is the possibility of high concentrations of gas sitting in areas with no movement of air.

Take note of any potential landmarks (i.e. posts, curbs) that can be used to help you navigate out of the area if you are struggling to see.

If you are exposed to tear gas, try to find higher ground and stand in fresh air to allow the breeze to carry away the gas. Do not rub your eyes or face as this may worsen the situation. Once possible, shower in cold water to wash the gas away from skin, but do not bathe. Clothing may need to be washed several times to remove the crystals completely or even be discarded.

When dealing with aggression:

Read body language to identify an aggressor and use your own body language to pacify a situation.

Keep eye contact with an aggressor, use open hand gestures and keep talking with a calming manner.

Keep an extended arms length from the threat. Back away and break away firmly without aggression if held. If cornered and in danger, shout.

If aggression increases, keep a hand free to protect your head and move with short, deliberate steps to avoid falling. If in a team, stick together and link arms.

While there are times when documenting aggression is crucial journalistic work, be aware of the situation and your own safety. Taking pictures of aggressive individuals can escalate a situation.

Journalists who are injured or require assistance can contact CPJ via report_violation@cpj.org.

For more information on basic preparedness, assessing and responding to risk, or safety measures when covering civil conflict and disturbances, journalists should review CPJs Journalist Security Guide. For additional information and tools for pre-assignment preparation and post-incident assistance, visit CPJs resource center.

CPJ encourages local and freelance journalists and media organizations covering the protests in Bangladesh to closely follow the safety principles and practices of the ACOS Alliance, which can be found here.
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Beirut, August 7, 2018The Committee to Protect Journalists today condemned the arrest of at least seven Palestinian journalists in the West Bank since July 30 and called on Israeli authorities to immediately disclose charges against them or set them free.

The early morning arrests occurred after Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman declared the Hamas-affiliated broadcaster Al-Quds TV a terrorist organization and banned its activities in Israel and the Palestinian territories, as CPJ documented. Liebermans order was issued on July 3 under Israels counter-terrorism law, according to news reports from the time.

Israel has been relentless in its assault on the Palestinian press. Declaring a media outlet a terrorist organization set the tone for the countrys latest crackdown on Palestinian journalists, said CPJs Middle East and North Africa program coordinator, Sherif Mansour, from Washington, D.C. We call on Israeli authorities to disclose charges against the seven journalists arrested over the past week or release them and allow them to work freely.

Details of the arrests are below:

In dawn raids on July 30, Israeli forces arrested Al-Quds TV director Alaa al-Rimawi in the West Bank, as well as freelance journalists Mohammed Sami Alwan, Qutaiba Hamdan, and Hosni Anjas from their houses in the Ramallah area, according to news reports, the Palestinian press freedom group MADA, the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate (PJS), and the regional press freedom group Doha Center for Media Freedom.

MADA and the Doha Center for Media Freedom quoted al-Rimawis wife, Mimouna al-Rimawi, as saying that at 3 a.m. they woke up to the sound of heavy knocking on the door of their Ramallah house. At least 12 Israeli soldiers stormed the house and requested that al-Rimawi produce his identification card, according to the same report.

The soldiers searched the house and seized a computer, his protective gear, and his car and took him to an unknown destination without mentioning any charges, al-Rimawis wife told MADA and the Doha Center.

Israeli forces arrested freelance reporter Alwan, and freelance camerapersons Hamdan and Anjas from their respective homes in Al-Bireh, 2.5 km away (1.5 miles) from Ramallah, Beitunia, 4 km (2.4 miles) west of Ramallah, and the village of Kharbata Bani Harith, 19 km (11.8 miles) northwest of Ramallah, according to MADA and the Doha Center. The same press freedom groups quoted the journalists relatives as saying that no charges were mentioned during the arrests and that the Israeli forces seized their photography equipment, electronic devices, protective gear, computers, and Anjas car.

According to MADA, Hamdan was taken directly to Ofer prison; Anjas was taken to Kiryat Sefer settlement before being transferred to Ofer; Alwan was taken to Pessgot settlement before his transfer to Ofer. Al-Rimawi was also taken to Ofer, though it is not clear if he was taken there directly, according to MADA.

At a hearing on August 2, a military court extended the four journalists detention for a week to complete its investigation, according to a Facebook post by the Palestinian prisoners support group Prisoners Club.

Mohammed Khaled, a reporter for Al-Quds TV at their Beirut headquarters, told CPJ that although news reports identified the four journalists as working for Al-Quds TV, only al-Rimawi was a staff employee.

The other journalists stopped working for Al-Quds TV after Israel closed its offices in Palestine in 2017, Khaled said.

In a dawn raid on August 1, Israeli forces arrested Mohammed Muna, reporter for the London-based news agency Al-Quds Press and director of the Nablus-based Radio Hawa, at his house in the village of Zuata, 5 km (3.1 miles) west of Nablus, according to Al-Quds TV , news reports, and the regional press freedom group SKeyes Center for Media and Cultural Freedom.

Munas father, Anwar Muna, was quoted by SKeyes as saying that the Israeli forces searched his sons house, seized his cell phone, and did not state the reason for his sons arrest.

News reports cited Munas brother, Abdel Karim Muna, as saying that the Salem Israeli military court on August 2 extended Munas detention for seven days for the purposes of interrogation without providing any further details.

Muna, according to his brother, is being held at the Huwara detention facility south of Nablus, but will most likely be transferred to Megiddo prison, north of Jenin.

Muna was previously arrested by Israeli forces in August 2013 and placed in administrative detention until he was released in April 2015, according to SKeyes and Munas employer.

Israeli forces on August 6 arrested Ibrahim al-Rantisi, a reporter for the Turkish state-owned broadcaster TRT Arabic, after raiding his house in the town of Rantis, 22 kilometers (13.6 miles) northwest of Ramallah, according to news reports, his employer, SKeyes, and al-Rantisis brother Fakhr al-Rantisi.

Fakhr al-Rantisi told CPJ that at least 15 Israeli soldiers surrounded his brothers house at 2 a.m., knocked on the door a few times, and then broke into the house.

They ordered him to sit down in the living room and asked his wife to bring his cell phones, which they seized, and his ID card. Then they made a phone call to confirm the identity of my brother and when they did they asked his wife to bring his shoes. One of the soldiers was filming the entire arrest. [Al-Rantisi] kissed his little daughter goodbye and left, the journalists brother told CPJ.

Fakhr al-Rantisi said that soldiers took his brother to an undisclosed location. He said they discovered his brother was being held in Ofer Prison through the Palestinian Prisoners Club.

I believe my brother has been arrested for his work as a journalist, said al-Rantisi. He said that his brother began working for TRT at the beginning of this year, and previously worked for Al Quds TV, until December 2017

On the morning of August 6, Israeli police and intelligence officers arrested Nader Baybars a cameraperson for the Palestinian Authoritys official broadcaster Palestine TV and director of the broadcasters Good Morning Jerusalem program from the Baybars family home in the Jerusalemite neighborhood of Wad al-Joz, according to news reports. Israeli soldiers and police officers raided the family house and quarreled with members of the Baybars family, according to Baybars brother, Noor Baybars, who was cited in news reports.

The soldiers said they were taking Nader Baybars to Salah al Din Israeli police station in Jerusalem for interrogation, according to the same news reports citing Noor Baybars.

In February 2016, Baybars was summoned to the Salah al-Din police station in Jerusalem for questioning about his work as a journalist and the content of the Good Morning Jerusalem program, which the Israelis deemed harmful to the countrys security, according to SKeyes.

Israeli Defense Forces did not immediately reply to CPJs email requesting comment.
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Four years to the day that Ahmed Rilwan Abdulla was last seen by his family, President Abdulla Yameen Abdulla Gayoom declared the Maldives journalist dead.

Responding to accusations that he obstructed an investigation into Rilwans disappearance, Yameen said during a campaign speech today, The journalist, Ahmed Rilwan, is dead. No doubt about it. It is a sad affair. Yameen later apologized for his comments, which he said the media misconstrued, and said he hoped that the journalist would be found, according to news reports.

Rilwan, who reported for the outlet Minivan News, now the Maldives Independent, was critical of local politicians and Islamist extremists. Before he went missing in 2014, Rilwan, who was known to his Twitter followers as Moyameehaa, published a report about how local journalists had received death threats warning them against reporting on criminal gangs.

The presidents comments on Rilwan were startling. In the four years since Rilwans abduction, the government has been tightlipped about his case. For two years, it denied any link between the journalists disappearance and an abduction reported outside his building. The president previously refused to meet Rilwans family despite repeated requests, a colleague of the journalist told CPJ at the time.

But a statement today from jailed ex-vice president Ahmed Adeeb, alleging that the president stopped the Cabinet from investigating Rilwans disappearance, prompted Yameen to break his silence.

Ahmed Rilwan Abdulla, pictured with his mother Aminath Easa, went missing on August 8, 2014. (Yasha Adnan)

Its not the first time the government has faced allegations of obstructing the investigation. An Al-Jazeera documentary in 2016 alleged that Yameen texted former Home Minister Umar Naseer not to be overwhelmed by the investigation into Rilwans abduction. The government dismissed the documentary in a statement as being defamatory and biased.

Last week, CPJ documented how a Maldives criminal court acquitted two men of abducting Rilwan. The judge called the police and prosecution negligent, careless, and said they had failed to conduct a thorough investigation. A CPJ letter to the president in 2015 raised concerns by Rilwans colleagues that the police investigation was inadequate. Little has changed in 2018, with no new suspects identified, no leads, and still no justice.

Yameens comments raise the question of whether the president knows something about the disappearance that has not been revealed publicly in the police investigation or subsequent trial. If so, that is information that should be shared immediately with Rilwans family.

The Presidents Office did not immediately respond to CPJs email requesting comment.

Today, Rilwans family announced that they planned to sue the police for negligence, saying last weeks verdict showed at minimum state complicity and, at worst, active involvement in Rilwans abduction and disappearance, according to Maldives Independent.

If Yameen is remorseful about his comments and truly hopes Rilwan will be found, he should immediately heed calls to launch an independent investigation into the disappearance.
Socialism claims that its collectivist economic plans put people first. But even the philosophy behind socialism dehumanizes everyone involved  according to one of the foremost socialist leaders.

Marxism is rooted in the concept of dialectical materialism, the pseudo-scientific assertion that the endless churning of class conflict between the rich (bourgeoisie) and the poor (proletariat) eventually produces a workers paradise.

But to see poverty as a force in a historic [dialectic], is not only the dehumanization of the poor, it is the dehumanization of him who thinks it. The reaction to this poverty should be partly one of calculation, of how can it be eradicated, but it must also be of the Beatitudes, of hunger and thirst for Justice, of love and grief for what goes on before our eyes.

The man who wrote those words was Michael Harrington, future democratic socialist leader and activist whose book The Other America is credited with launching Lyndon Johnsons war on poverty.

Alas, Harrington wasnt advocating giving up statism, but his words provide common ground that both sides can take as a starting point.

We can agree that the human person must be the heart and center of everything we do. Harrington wrote that socialist theory objectifies the poor as little more than the vanguard of a new revolutionary order. And it objectifies those who insist on seeing their fellow human beings in this way and, thus, cut themselves off from humanity.

At the time he wrote these words in 1952, Harrington was a daily communicant associated with Dorothy Days Catholic Worker movement. Even then, his love proved more theoretical and idealistic than concrete. According to his biographer, Maurice Isserman, Harringtons favorite position at the shelter was night watchman, which let him avoid contact with the poor and focus on writing. Within a few years, he would be a committed socialist and atheist.

We would add that socialisms real-world results are no better than its theory. In addition to seeing the poor as a means rather than an end, the resultant welfare state cannot tailor its aid to fit individual circumstances. The term faceless bureaucracy is a cliche for a reason. Impersonal rules and regulations mete out uniform results to everyone, regardless of personal circumstances, motivations, or even whether they will help or hurt the recipient.

Christianity best fulfills the goal of giving the poor a face. Jesus disciples saw the poor as the image-bearers of God, imprinted with infinite and ineradicable human dignity. Furthermore, without loving and serving them  and all other people  in His name, a Christian cannot fulfill his commission as a believer. Without loving his brother, whom he has seen, a Christian cannot long remain in communion with God.

Hell is not other people, Metropolitan Kallistos Ware wrote in The Orthodox Church, contradicting Sartres well-known phrase. Hell is myself, cut off from others in self-centeredness.

We also share Harringtons belief in prudent action to end poverty. If Harringtons modern-day disciples, like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, wish to engage in the calculation of how [poverty] can be eradicated, they might begin by seeing how it has been extirpated  by the hundreds of millions in China alone. Since a group of rural farmers signed a compact by candlelight to allow private ownership in 1978, abandoning rigid socialism has lifted more than 800 million people out of poverty, according to the World Bank. The most doctrinaire Marxist nations are also those most plagued by want, famine, and malnutrition.

In the prosperous West, socialism is experiencing a resurgence. We can grant many young socialists have the purest motives and best of intentions. But we must also observe where the road they pave leads.

And as Harrington points out, the destination is the same for society and the theorists themselves. In that sense at least, socialism produces genuine equality.

(Photo credit: Lorie Shaull. CC BY-SA 2.0.)
Joint military exercise Maitree 2018 between Indian Army and Royal Thai Army was conducted in Thailand from 6 to 19 August 2018. It contributed immensely in developing mutual understanding and bonhomie between armies of both countries in order to counter terrorism.

Exercise Maitree 2018

Maitree 2018 was platoon level exercise that comprises of infantry component. Its opening ceremony was started with familiarization of organisation and display of weapons and equipment of both armies. It mainly emphasized to hone tactical and technical skills in joint counter insurgency and counter terrorist operations in rural and urban scenario under United Nations (UN) mandate.

The exercise laid due emphasis on increasing interoperability between forces from both countries which is considered crucial for success of any joint operation. Both armies also jointly trained, planned and executed series of well-developed tactical drills for neutralization of likely threats that may be encountered in urban warfare scenario. Besides, experts from both sides also held detailed discussions to share their experience on varied topics for mutual benefit.
Bangladesh: Increasing fish production improves rural economy: experts

August 07,2018 | Source: New Age BD

Fisheries experts at a fingerling releasing function here today said fish production consistently increased in last 10 years improving livelihoods of rural people cutting poverty and strengthening rural economy. They came up with the observation while addressing the function organized by Fulbari upazila fisheries department for releasing huge quantity of fish fries in the Fulsagar Lake under Fulbari upazila in Kurigram.



The Fulbari upazila fisheries department released some 333-kg fish fries to 31 private and government sector water bodies on 103 hectares of land for boosting fish production in the upazila under the revenue budget for the 2018-2019 fiscal. Kurigram district fisheries officer Md Zillur Rahman attended the main function held on the Fulsagar Lake bank and released fish fries as the chief guest with Fulbari upazila nirbahi officer Debendranath Urao in the chair. Acting chairman of Fulbari Upazila Parishad Arjina Khatun, Fulbari Upazila fisheries officer Mahmudunnabi Mithu, Upazila agriculture officer Mahbubur Rashid and Upazila cooperative officer Azgar Ali addressed as special guests.



Fulbari UFO Mahmudunnabi said fish production was increasing in the tune of over one lakh tonnes annually in the country during the past one decade following successful implementation of various pragmatic steps taken by the present government. The government has been implementing massive programmes for extension of fish farming in rural areas, he said adding that the government was also providing assistance to the fishermen, fish farmers and private sector entrepreneurs to boost fish output. The chief guest put emphasis on boosting fish production along with protecting natural breeding grounds, stopping catch of smaller fishes to preserve extinct and indigenous fish species to achieve self-reliance by the rural people. He stressed on bringing all ponds, tinny water bodies, canals, beels, haors and flood plains under fish cultivation using latest technologies to boost fish production for meeting nutrition of the people in building a healthier Bangladesh.
Myanmar: Govt to seek migrants for fish industry

August 07,2018 | Source: Bangkok Post

A plan to attract thousands of foreign workers into the Thai fishing industry is taking shape with Labour Minister Adul Sangsingkeo likely to meet his counterparts from Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam after Aug 15 to establish the terms. The date is set as a deadline for fishing operators in 22 coastal provinces to inform the government of how many workers they want after the National Fisheries Association of Thailand earlier estimated more than 42,000 are needed.



"The ministry wants to know their real demand in order to tell neighbouring countries," Pol Gen Adul said.

Officials are currently using two measures to solve the severe shortage of fishermen, which erupted after the enforcement of new laws to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in Thai waters. The ministry will import migrant workers under a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the four countries to ensure they legally enter Thailand and prevent a prospect of forced labour, a main factor that prompted the European Union to yellow-card, or issue a final warning to Thailand in 2015.



The other measure is to extend work permits for about 10,000 migrant workers who are currently aboard fishing vessels. During efforts to act against illegal migrant workers, the government allowed undocumented fishermen to work in Thailand, but they were required to report to authorities. The work permits of foreign fishermen will expire at the end of next month, but the ministry plans to give them two more years to work in Thailand.

They have until Sept 30 to enter a process to renew their permits, Pol Gen Adul said. His ministry also plans to call a meeting with fisheries officials and fishermen tomorrow to discuss new MoU deals and "other problems so that we'll move in the same direction", he said. On Wednesday fishermen across country plan to hold a seven-day strike if the government turns a blind eye to the impact of new law enforcement on fishing businesses. Trawler operators have complained against strict rules which appear to focus on paperwork
The Tennessee Supreme Court ruled that the scheduled execution of Billy Ray Irick should proceed as planned on Thursday, denying his request for a stay.





Shortly after the Monday evening ruling, Gov. Bill Haslam announced he would not intervene and would allow the execution to go forward.





"I took an oath to uphold the law," Haslam said in a statement. "Capital punishment is the law in Tennessee and was ordered in this case by a jury of Tennesseans and upheld by more than a dozen state and federal courts."





As of January 2017, there were 63 inmates on death row in Tennessee. Executions have been on hold pending a challenge by inmates to the single-dose drug protocol.





The decisions from Haslam and the high court come despite an ongoing legal challenge of the state's lethal injection method. They move the state one step closer to executing its 1st inmate since 2009.





Gene Shiles, Irick's defense attorney, released a statement thanking Haslam for his thoughtful consideration but said the governor's office had misunderstood crucial elements of the case history en route to a decision.





Shiles said Monday that Irick would seek a delay from the federal court system while his civil appeal is pending.

The Supreme Court said it 'must deny Mr. Irick's motion'

In an order issued by a majority of the 5-person court, the court said that, according to existing rules, it "must deny Mr. Irick's motion."





Justice Sharon Lee dissented, saying she would have granted the stay until an ongoing challenge to the state's lethal injection protocol could be heard by an appeals court.





"The harm to Mr. Irick of an unconstitutional execution is irreparable," Lee wrote in a forceful break with the majority. "Yet the harm to the State from briefly delaying the execution until after appellate review is minimal, if any."





Billy Ray Irick was sentenced to death for the rape and murder of Paula Dyer in 1986. Decades of appeals later, he's still on death Paula's family still can't rest.





Irick, 59, was convicted in 1986 of the rape and murder of a 7-year-old girl in Knox County. Although Irick has exhausted appeals on his original case, he asked the court last week to delay his execution so he and 32 other death row offenders could continue their legal challenge of the drugs Tennessee intends to use to kill him.





The death row offenders argued the 3 drugs Tennessee plans to use will torture inmates to death. They also said the state did not do enough to find a drug that would provide a more humane death.





Davidson County Chancellor Ellen Hobbs Lyle disagreed. After a two-week trial in July, Lyle ruled against the inmates, saying the state did enough to attempt to find other drugs. She did, however, agree experts provided by the inmates gave compelling testimony about the potential for the lethal injection drugs to not work as intended.





She determined while an offender may feel pain, that pain would not rise to the level of torture.





Nonetheless, attorneys for the death row inmates thought her ruling gave ample grounds for appeal.





Federal courts could offer final chance for Irick





In a statement Monday after the order was issued, Nashville attorney and death penalty expert David Raybin said the decision to deny a delay "opens the door to a federal court granting a short stay so the state can resolve the pending litigation."





In the majority's order, the court found Irick had failed to present a legal argument that was likely to win on appeal. A 2015 change to the rules of the Tennessee Supreme Court requires death row inmates to prove an ongoing lawsuit is likely to succeed in order to get a stay of execution.





This is the 1st time the court has applied that new rule. Monday's order essentially acknowledged that a similar request would have been granted before the change was made - but not now.





"Indeed, this Court has granted such stays in the past," the order read. But "to obtain a stay at this time, Mr. Irick must establish a likelihood of success, and he has failed to satisfy this standard."





Kelley Henry, the federal public defender who has led the lethal injection challenge, rejected that finding. In a statement released Monday evening, she said the decision from state's high court, made only a week after the request was submitted, left Irick to face execution "before the courts have had a chance to thoughtfully consider the challenge to the new lethal injection protocol."





"As Justice Lee pointed out in her dissent, Mr. Irick now stands to be executed without the benefit of an appeal," Henry wrote.





At this point, Irick has essentially 1 option: ask for a stay in the federal court system.





Henry said Irick would "likely" ask the U.S. Supreme Court to order a stay, but she said Haslam should take action to postpone Irick's execution.





Haslam declines to act: 'My role is not to be the 13th juror'





Haslam had the power to delay Irick's execution to allow for an appeal or to change his death sentence to a life sentence without the possibility of parole. His attorneys had argued Irick deserved clemency because he was mentally ill and thus could not understand the consequences of his actions.





As noted in the Nashville Scene, the psychologist who originally assessed Irick's mental state and argued against an insanity defense essentially retracted his report years later after reviewing additional evidence.





But in his statement, Haslam defended his decision not to act, noting state and federal courts "have reviewed and upheld the jury's verdict and sentence on 17 different occasions."





Shiles, Irick's criminal defense attorney, pushed back on that point.





"The truth is no facts relating to Billy's state mind at the time of the offenses - including his hallucinations and talking to 'the devil' were ever considered by a single court on the merits," Shiles said in a statement. "These facts, the most important to reasoned decisions as to guilt and punishment, were instead 'defaulted' and never weighed because they were determined to be untimely - raised too long after the trial."





Haslam's statement was resolute, suggesting he was satisfied with the judicial consideration of all the facts.





"My role is not to be the 13th juror or the judge or to impose my personal views, but to carefully review the judicial process to make sure it was full and fair," Haslam said. "Because of the extremely thorough judicial review of all of the evidence and arguments at every stage in this case, clemency is not appropriate."

Gov. Haslam declines to intervene in Billy Ray Irick execution

Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam announced Monday he will not intervene in the case of Billy Ray Irick, set to be executed later this week for the murder of a 7-year-old girl in Knox County more than 30 years ago.





Haslam said in a statement that even though Irick requested clemency based upon his mental health status at the time the crime was committed, a mental health expert ruled he was competent to stand trial.





Numerous state and federal courts, including the Tennessee Supreme Court and U.S. Supreme Court, have reviewed and upheld the verdict on 17 different occasions, 11 of which were after additional evidence came to light about Irick's behavior in the weeks leading up to the murder.





"I took an oath to uphold the law," wrote Haslam. "Capital punishment is the law in Tennessee and was ordered in this case by a jury of Tennesseans and upheld by more than a dozen state and federal courts. My role is not to be the 13th juror or the judge or to impose my personal views, but to carefully review the judicial process to make sure it was full and fair. Because of the extremely thorough judicial review of all of the evidence and arguments at every stage in this case, clemency is not appropriate."





Earlier on Monday, Tennessee's Supreme Court refused to stay Irick's execution while the state's lethal injection protocol continues to be challenged on appeal.





The court's majority wrote Monday that state Supreme Court rules require proving that the lawsuit challenging the new three-drug cocktail is likely to succeed on appeal, but Irick's attorney has failed to do so.





Irick is scheduled to be executed Thursday in the 1985 rape and murder of 7-year-old Paula Dyer. Irick would be the 1st inmate Tennessee has executed since 2009.

Death row inmate Billy Ray Irick moved to death watch ahead of Thursday execution date

He is scheduled for execution at Riverbend Maximum Security Prison. Irick was convicted of raping and murdering a 7-year-old girl back in 1985.

"DEATH WATCH"

Here is how the Tennessee Department of Corrections explains it:





Death watch is a three-day period before an execution when strict guidelines are implemented to maintain the security and control of a condemned offender and to maintain safe and orderly operations of the prison.





The offender is placed in one of four cells adjacent to the execution chamber where he or she is under 24-hour observation by a team of correctional officers who work 12-hour shifts.





The officers supervise the offender's activities and operate the control room for the death watch area and the execution chamber.





The offender is placed in a cell that is approximately 8 feet by 10 feet. The cell has a metal-framed bed with one mattress. There is also a metal desk with a metal stool attached to it, a metal shelf, and a shower, a stainless steel sink and toilet.





It has a small window that provides a limited view of one of the prison's grounds.





Once the offender is placed on death watch, the routine is somewhat different from the normal prison schedule.





The items an offender can have in the cell are limited, visitation schedule and regulations differ from the rest of the prison, and the media are not allowed to interview the offender during death watch.





The offender is allowed some of the following items in the cell:

Hygiene items such as a tube of toothpaste, a toothbrush, a bar of soap and toilet tissue

Stationery (12 sheets), 3 stamped envelopes and one pencil that will be in the possession of a correctional officer when not in use

One set of clothing and one set of undergarments

Religious materials issued by the chaplain

Legal documents as requested

One television outside the cell

Medication prescribed by the facility's physician and issued and used under direct supervision only.

Not more than one requested newspaper at a time in the cell

The offender is provided:

Regular meals. The offender can request, within reason, a special meal on the final day before the execution

Legal materials he or she requests

Clean laundry as needed

Appropriate clothing for the mortician if clothing is not provided by family

Mail privileges, except for packages

A telephone outside the cell to make personal or legal calls (warden approves personal calls)

Visitation during death watch:

Only those individuals who are on the offender's official visitation list are allowed to visit the offender during death watch.

The warden decides the number of visitors at any one time and the number of visits. All visits are non-contact until the final day before the execution at which time the warden decides if the offender can have a contact visit.





Visits by the offender's spiritual advisor are under the same guidelines, although the warden can grant a visit prior to the execution.





Only the prison chaplain can accompany the offender into the execution chamber at the offender's request.





The offender's attorney can visit prior to the execution and these are non-contact.





Visiting hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., with one two-hour visit in the morning and one two-hour visit in the afternoon.





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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
She also said the bishop gave a fake complaint that her brother was planning to murder him. The nun alleged that the bishop lodged a complaint against her with the police also

Kottayam: Putting Jalandhar bishop Franko Mulakkal in further trouble, two letters allegedly written by the nun of the Missionaries of Jesus to the Apostolic Nuncio of Vatican in Delhi in January 28 and June 24 have come out in which she had raised the charges of sexual abuse and mental harassment by the bishop.

The letters were addressed to Archbishop Giambattista Diquattro, the Nuncio of Vatican to India.

The letters are likely to embarrass the Vatican as well, as the nun sent the second letter after getting no reply for the first one, indicating an attempt by the representative of the Holy See to gloss over the serious complaints. In one of the letters, the nun said the Bishop had twice called her to his room and sexually abused her and insulted her and her family.

In the complaint given to the Nuncio via the Bishop of Bhagalpur Kurian Valiakandathil, the nun asked the nuncio what action he had taken on the complaint of mental harassment and sexual assault she was subjected to by the bishop.She said she was devastated mentally and was undergoing treatment.

Levelling serious allegations that the bishop and his supporters were trying to sabotage the case, the nun said the bishop had unleashed defamatory remarks against her and family through the Public Relations Officer of the diocese Father Peter Kavumpuram.

She also said the bishop gave a fake complaint that her brother was planning to murder him. The nun alleged that the bishop lodged a complaint against her at the Kuravilangadu police station also.
Over 70 solar power projects with a total registered capacity of approx 3GW have been approved within relevant master plans. Photo acquired by VnExpress

Vietnams renewable energy sector is experiencing an unprecedented surge in project activities and policy changes, making end results unpredictable.

The surge in activity includes project approvals as well as project transfers to technically experienced and financially capable developers, which is a positive trend, but whether it can fulfill the nations renewable energy potential remains to be seen.

Among the significant policy developments that have taken place of late is the temporary suspension of approval for additional solar power projects (SPPs).

The Office of the Government has issued Notice No. 174 requesting the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) to suspend approval of additional SPPs pending, in turn, the approval of a national master plan for the development of solar power (Solar PDP).

The MOIT has been tasked with formulating and presenting a new Solar PDP to the Prime Minister.

Notice 174 states that over 70 solar power projects with a total registered capacity of 3GW approx have been approved within relevant master plans (noting a planned capacity of 850MW for up to 2020 under the Power development plan 7).

Pending passage of the new master plan for solar power development, only projects that have been appraised by the MOIT (50MW or less) and those that have already been presented to the PM (above 50MW) will be considered for approval.

Other solar projects, including those being appraised by the MOIT, regardless of their registered capacity, shall be deferred and considered for inclusion in the national solar master plan.

The impact of this suspension has been seen in the market, where the selling side has tended to mandate higher prices for their project development efforts. It has also reminded market players to be prepared to accommodate potential policy uncertainties, twists and turns in their dealings.

FIT developments

Another area of primary interest in the sector has been in the Feed in Tariff (FIT) deadline for SPPs.

To further promote socio-economic development, Deputy PM Vuong Dinh Hue has instructed the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) to draft a Government resolution proposing a special regime and policy, including a potential extension of application of Decision No.11/2017 (Decision 11) on FIT for SPPs in Ninh Thuan Province.

The draft document (No. 4545 dated July 4, 2018) submitted by the MPI to the Government Office has been reviewed.

The Government Office has since issued a notification (No. 7108 dated 26/07/2018) saying Decision 11, which provides for a FIT of US cents 9.35/kWh, will not be extended.

However, a PM Decision on extension of commercial operation date (COD) till 2020 for Ninh Thuan province up to a capacity of 2000 MW (AC) is expected.

In order to support the next policy consideration, the MOIT has issued a document (Official Letter 5735) requesting relevant Government bodies and their units to assign a cadre to participate in the working group to draft a decision amending Decision 11 and another draft decision to develop bidding mechanisms for the solar power sector. These are to be submitted to the PM for his consideration.

It is to be noted that post June 2019 solar power projects may expect a lower FIT rate of approx 7.6 US cents/kWh. The authorities are further considering formulating a special provincial plan to support investments in the two key provinces of Ninh Thuan and Binh Thuan, which are attracting huge investor interest for solar power projects.

This guideline on the application of Decision 11s FIT, together with the potential for system overload if the transmission system is not updated in time, will present a significant technical challenge for Vietnam Electricity (EVN) and MOIT in accommodating the policy.

This will also be true of piloting direct Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and upcoming policy changes.

Rooftop projects

In relation to rooftop solar power projects, national utility EVN, the sole power distributor in the country, issued a document (EVN Official Letter 1337) on March 21, 2018 guiding the temporary implementation scheme for rooftop SPPs with capacities equal to or less than 1MW, pending the issuance of an official guidance document by the MOIT and the Ministry of Finance (MOF) on payment and invoicing structure.

The prevailing regulations provide for a net-metering scheme for rooftop SPPs. Under this, credit for surplus electricity (over direct consumption) generated can be transferred to subsequent payment cycles, and the excess electricity generated can be sold to EVN at the rate mentioned in the PPA signed by the seller and EVN either at the end of the relevant year or upon termination of the agreement.

The MOIT Circular 16, issued last year, requires a solar power generator, as the seller, to enter into an appendix to the Model PPA in place with EVN or its authorized subsidiary. The model appendix is provided under Annexure 3.2 of Circular 16.

However, according to EVN OL 1337, the appendix will not be applied until the MOIT and the MOF issue further guidance on the finalization, payment scheme and invoicing mechanism for such net-metering purposes.

Offtake limitations

Under current regulations, EVN is required to offtake the entire power output of solar and wind power projects.

However, EVN already anticipates significant challenges to honoring this requirement, especially in areas with high concentration of solar and wind power projects with limited transmission capacity, even with the proposed system update expected by the end of 2019.

EVN has reported such challenges to the MOIT, and the latter has issued a document (OL 3943 dated May 21, 2018) that requires the following:

- EVN to instruct its affiliates to formulate grid connection agreements (GCA) for projects that may be able to dispatch power to the national transmission system without causing system overload;

- EVN to review and consider (i) dispatch capacity of the system, and (ii) potential conditional GCA for projects that may cause system overload. Developers and operators may be required to reduce power output and suspend operation of their plants as requested by EVNs operators to avoid system overload and comply with technical requirements under MOITs Circular 30/2015 and Circular 25/2016.

- EVN to prepare and present to MOIT in the third quarter of 2018 a plan for investment in a transmission system able to take dispatch of renewable power projects after 2020.

These MOIT instructions may result in potential deviations from the model power purchase agreements. EVNs offtake obligation and such deviation would certainly add another significant item to the list of bankability issues for projects without executed PPAs and GCAs.

It is expected that such issues would be further considered in the process of amending Decision 11 and related regulations.

Stakeholders in projects with executed PPAs and GCA would be well advised to ensure closer monitoring and coordination with EVN to minimize impacts and disruptions.

Increasing wind power FIT

The MOIT has proposed to the PM an amendment (Draft decision) to Decision 37/2011 to increase FIT for wind power projects from the current 7.8 US cents/kWh (onshore).

The amended draft decision will increase the FIT equivalent to 8.77 US cents/kWh (onshore) and 9.97 US cents/kWh (offshore), based on the SBV's exchange rate of $1 equivalent to VND21,896 (announced on January 4, 2016) and subject to fluctuation.

This potential increase is an effort to fix one of the most notable issues with wind power development regulations in Vietnam. The FIT under the draft decision shall apply to projects achieving COD before January 1, 2021.

To sum up, although Vietnam has an advantage in terms of abundant resources, whether or not it will be able to tap its full potential remains to be seen.

*Dang Duong Anh is the Managing Partner and Vaibhav Saxena an Associate with the Vietnam International Law Firm (VILAF)
A failure to follow fire safety protocols has seen 20 cruise ships suspended from operating in two popular bays.

The administration of Ha Long resort town in Quang Ninh Province, home to Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, said the 20 ships have yet to install thermal sensors and smoke detectors for the engine rooms as theyd been directed to earlier.

The ships will be suspended from Wednesday onwards till they are allowed to sail again, the adminintration said in a letter sent to the Quang Ninh Inland Port Authority.

Cruise ships operating in Ha Long and Bai Tu Long bays were required to have a CCTV camera system that has a screen placed inside the cockpit by June 25; and portable fire extinguishers, a thermal sensor and smoke detector for the engine room by August 5.

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO world heritage site since 1994, is one of Vietnam's biggest tourism magnets where an overnight cruise trip is a must-try travel experience in Asia according to Business Insider. Its lesser-known neighbor, Bai Tu Long, is described to be the place to avoid the crowd by U.K. travel publisher Rough Guides.

The bays helped Quang Ninh welcome 7.5 million visitors in the first half of this year, up 26 percent against the same period last year, including 2.4 million foreigners, up 14 percent.

Yet fire safety has long been a concern among tourists cruising the bays. Boat fire incidents have been reported often, including at least three between January-March of 2017.
The World Health Organization has called on Vietnam to tackle excessive drinking with strong measures.

In a letter delivered to Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc recently, WHO experts said the high consumption of beer and alcohol in Vietnam was imposing a heavy burden on the country in the form of non-contagious diseases.

It expressed WHOs support for a draft law on preventing adverse impacts of alcohol consumption that will be reviewed by lawmakers this October.

Shin Young-soo, WHOs regional director for the Western Pacific region, said beer consumption among Vietnamese had reached an alarming rate. He said a Vietnamese adult above 15 years drinks 8.3 liters of pure alcohol per year on average, much higher than in China (7.2 liters), Cambodia (6.7), the Philippines (6.6) and Singapore (two liters).

A study jointly conducted by Vietnam's Ministry of Health and WHO in 2016 showed that 77 percent of Vietnamese men drink liquor and beer, and nearly half of them drink at hazardous levels.

Nguyen Phuong Nam, a WHO official, said nearly 67 percent of the 1,840 traffic accident victims covered in the study had high concentrations of alcohol in their blood, and 45 percent had driven after drinking for two hours or more.

The letter asked the Vietnamese government to tighten controls over the production, sales and advertising of beer and alcoholic beverage to discourage drinking and protect consumers health.

The government should adopt tough measures to curb drinking by raising the prices of liquor and beer, restricting selling points, limiting the sale of alcoholic drinks at night and narrowing the legal drinking age, the letter said.

It said beer promotions and advertisements had negative impacts on young people. Recently, Vietnam's Health Ministry proposed an advertisement ban on beer on TV and social networks as part of the draft law, as also restricting the sale of alcohol at night, specifically after 10 p.m.

Vietnam is famous for its beer drinking culture. It is widely believed that business deals in Vietnam tend to go more smoothly over a few drinks at the negotiating table. Vietnam is the biggest beer market in Southeast Asia, consuming nearly four billion liters last year.

The country spends on average $3.4 billion on alcohol each year, or 3 percent of the governments budget revenue, according to official data. The figure translates to $300 per capita, while spending on health averages $113 per person, according to the Health Ministry.

As many as 40 percent of traffic accidents in Vietnam are linked to excessive drinking, according to the WHO, which it says is an alarming rate for a country where road crashes kill a person every hour, on average.
As the biggest loser, Vietnam has to use its influence to limit dam damage on Mekong Delta, says Mekong specialist Richard Cronin.

Vietnams Mekong Delta has been suffering a lot of land erosion in recent years. Is this linked to upstream developments, including dams?

Richard Cronin: Numerous recent studies based on both current and historical data show that sediment-trapping hydropower dams upstream on the main stem and tributaries of the Mekong River are by far the most important cause of the fast increasing erosion of the coast and deeper penetration of sea water, even into the interior of the delta.

Richard Cronin, a Mekong specialist at the American think-tank Stimson Center.

Most large dams trap between 80-90 percent or more of the historical sediment flow.

Important but lesser causes of land erosion include sand-mining upstream and in the delta and the construction of canals that expose more surface area of the land to erosion.

So what is in store for the Mekong Delta in terms of the sediment it has received, historically?

Coastal erosion and sediment flows are highly connected.

Already, upstream dams in China and on major Lower Mekong Basin (LMB) tributaries in Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam have trapped a major share of the historical sediment flow into the delta.

China's half of the river provides only about 16 percent of the rivers total annual discharge, but is the source of more than half of the rivers total sediment load.

Estimates of sediment trapping by upstream dams is not an exact science, but tracking sediment flows in the LMB is much more difficult because of a lack of meaningful data. The exception to this situation is Chang Saen, Thailand's northernmost river port, where record-keeping on sediment flows has been carried out for a long time. In this case, Chinese dams are estimated to be trapping 83 percent or more of the historical flow of sediment from the Chinese half of the river.

One study that assumes 38 dams with reservoirs that already exist or are highly likely to be built--what MRC modelers call the "Definite Future" scenario - estimates that 51 percent of the historical sediment load that previously reached lower reaches of the LMB, including the Tonle Sap, the Cambodian floodplain and the Mekong Delta, would be trapped in the dam reservoirs.

If the highest development scenario were to come to pass, 96 percent of the sediment would be captured upstream and only 4 percent of the historical flow would reach the delta.

Construction of the controversial Three Gorges Dam, in Yichang, Hubei Province, China. Photo by Reuters

What about Cambodia's Sambor Dam? How would it affect water, fish sources and livelihoods of people in downstream areas?

A report has described the Sambor Dam, as originally designed, as "probably the largest and most destructive dam in the Mekong River Basin." Numerous other studies share the same view, some calling the 18 kilometers-wide dam a "fish killer" and massive sediment trapper. The full proposed dam would largely end the role of the Tonle Sap Lake and flood plains as one of the world's most productive fresh water fisheries and deny nutrient-rich sediment to the downstream Cambodian agricultural flood plains and the Mekong Delta.

The report by the California-based Natural Heritage Institution (NHI) could not be more pointed and concise as to the impact: "The Sambor reach of the Mekong is the corridor that experiences perhaps the largest annual migration of fish biomass on the planet. A large scale dam and impoundment at this site would obstruct this migration, which is vital for the completion of the life cycles of the migratory fish that characterize the most productive freshwater fishery in the world. It would also capture most of the sediments and nutrients that maintain and replenish the morphology of the Mekong Delta and nourish the food web for the fishery."

How should member countries in the Mekong region use recommendations mentioned in this report?

This is the most important question. The two NHI reports, the Sambor Alternatives Assessment and the Sustainable Hydropower Master Plan for Xe Kong Basin in Lao PDR, convincingly establish that both the planned Xe Kong 1 dam and the Sambor dam would have a devastating impact on the most productive part of the river and the Mekong Delta.

The concept of floating solar arrays on dam reservoirs and lakes is no longer novel. A large number of hybrid projects have been built or are under construction in the U.S., the U.K., Australia, Japan and elsewhere. Especially with the rapidly falling cost of solar panels and the generally rising cost and high financial and political risks to large dam projects, Laos and other lower income countries that want to exploit their natural resources can make the leap to a cheaper and more environmentally sustainable energy future.

The NHI studies found that this approach would be considerably less expensive, much faster to deploy and do no more damage to the environment.

This could open up new sources of financing. While the ABD, the World Bank and developed country aid donors have largely declined to finance dams on the Mekong mainstream and major tributaries, it's likely that they would be responsive to this approach, which is both environmentally responsible, cheaper, and hence more "bankable."

Given the risks to the Mekong Delta from the planned dams and the many advantages of the proposed hybrid alternatives the Vietnamese government should have every incentive to seek more information on the hybrid technology, logically from companies and countries that are already deploying it.

Both reports note the high stakes for Vietnam and encourage the government to be more active in engaging with the leaders of Laos and Cambodia and at the ministerial levels.

A man climbs down from his house in Attapeu, Laos, as the area is flooded following a dam collapse in July. Photo by VnExpress/Thanh Nguyen

Regarding the Sambor dam, the fact that the project carries high political and financial risks, and probably technical/engineering risks as well, means that it is still possible for the Vietnamsese government to exercise influence.

Cambodian government officials insist that Sambor dam is a high priority project but the company that was originally picked to build the dam, China Southern Power Grid, pulled out of the project in late 2011 as a result of protests by Cambodian villagers that the dam would decimate the fish population and also because the plan would require relocating 19,000 people.

The Vietnamese government should also have significant leverage regarding the Sambor dam since Vietnam reportedly is to be the off-taker of 70 percent of the power, with another 10 percent going to Thailand.

How can Vietnam complain about the impact of the dam on the delta while buying a major share of its output?

Although the CEO of the Mekong River Commission (MRC) must remain impartial, the fact that the current CEO, Dr. Pham Tuan Phan, is Vietnamese puts him in a position to focus more research on the hybrid concept and engage with the governments about incorporating this attractive alternative into the organization's next 5-year strategic development plan.

Regarding Xe Kong 1 and other planned dams, the report emphasizes that Laos has made good progress with the promulgation and approval by the National Assembly of a new policy on sustainable hydropower development, but notes that the policy guidelines declare goals and procedures but no specific responsibilities and substantive criteria. The report seeks to fill this gap as much as possible.

Given that Vietnam's environmental policies and procedures regarding hydropower dams are more advanced, this is an area where Vietnam could help, especially in conjunction with international expertise and financing.

Moreover, the fact that the national utility, EVN, is a major investor in the Xe Kaman 1 dam should ease the problem of trying to persuade the dam developer-owner to agree to the deployment of floating solar panels on the reservoir and integration of its output with the hydropower house.

Because the politically influential Royal Group is a minor investor in the Lower Sesan 2 (LS2) dam, deploying solar panels on the reservoir in lieu of building the Sambor dam may not be so easy.

In addition to its stake in LS2, the Royal Group currently is the only identified potential investor in the Sambor project and reportedly is in line to carry out the pre-feasibility, feasibility and social and environmental impact studies. Allowing the deployment on the LS2 reservoir would undercut the group's strong interest in the Sambor project.

*Richard Cronin is a Mekong specialist at the American think-tank Stimson Center.
Saigon police are investigating the death of a Canadian whose decaying body was found Monday in Tan Binh District.

The cause of death has not been ascertained yet.

Media reports said that the man, in his fifties, whose name has not been revealed, was a long-term resident of Cong Hoa Street in Tan Binh District.

He had not been seen leaving his room for several days, the reports said.

On Monday morning, neighbors reported a stench covering the complex in which the Canadian man had rented a small room.

When the landlord got no response after banging on the mans door, he immediately contacted the local police.

The police broke into the room and found the foreigners decaying body.

According to neighbors, the man had rented the room for two years and lived alone.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, is one of the most visited destinations in the country, with four million foreigners arriving in the first seven months of 2018.
A police officer speaks with a petitioner (C) as security personnel (R) look on opposite China's Banking Regulatory Commission in Beijing. Photo by AFP

Hundreds of police patrolled the streets of Beijing's financial district Monday to clamp down on a planned protest against losses in lending platforms.

Enraged over financial losses, petitioners told AFP they had come from every corner of China -- from the southernmost province of Guangdong to the far-west region of Xinjiang -- in hopes that by gathering en masse, the government would recognise their grievances and take action.

But authorities appeared to have other plans.

More than 120 buses lined the roads around the China Banking Regulatory Commission, where the protest was supposed to take place. They stretched all the way to Beijing's Diaoyutai state guesthouse some three kilometres (1.9 miles) away.

Security forces rounded up groups of petitioners from the surrounding streets and parks and drove them away in the buses under police escort.

A man in plainclothes sealed the windows of one vehicle shut with clear tape before it was driven away.

A policeman told AFP they would be taken to a neighbourhood on the outskirts of Beijing, where China maintains what rights activists describe as "black jails". Petitioners are typically held there until minders escort them back to their home towns.

"Cases sent there are essentially sent into a black hole -- people never get any results and end up like characters in 'Waiting for Godot'," explained Patrick Poon, China researcher for Amnesty International.

China's P2P industry, worth some $195 billion according to Bloomberg News, is the world's largest but is highly risky and unregulated.

The cumulative number of failed Chinese P2P firms has soared in recent years, from just 93 in 2013 to 4,334 as of this June, Bloomberg cited Shanghai-based P2P consultancy the Yingcan Group as saying.

In July alone 164 firms were identified as "problematic platforms" from which investors could no longer withdraw their funds, according to P2P database Wangdaizhijia.

Possibly over 8,000 people were expected at the protest, one petitioner said, a claim that was echoed in what purported to be a leaked government document circulating online. It could not be independently verified.

According to the document, cybersecurity authorities had identified 8,370 people from 32 out of the country's 34 provinces, districts and cities who planned to come to Beijing after organising on social media.

The missive, addressed to public security bureaus nationwide, directs them to "closely watch the movements of relevant people and carry out stability and control work in a timely manner towards active organisers, people buying tickets to Beijing, and other such key people to strictly prevent a large gathering in Beijing and ensure that society remains stable."
Europe baked in near-record temperatures on Monday but some respite was on the horizon after weeks of nonstop sunshine.

As people come to terms with what may prove to be the region's new normal in an era of climate change, here is a roundup of recent developments:

Kids cool off in Madrid as a heatwave sweeps across Europe with near-record temperatures. Photo by AFP

France nearing a peak

Temperatures were expected to peak at around 37 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit) in southern France on Monday, while the north is due to be hotter on Tuesday. On Saturday, they hit their highest levels since a 2003 heatwave killed thousands of mainly elderly people.

Health Minister Agnes Buzyn said people had to take proper care to cope with the heat and warned that everyone had to adapt.

"You need to drink a lot, but also to eat and take salt," Buzyn said.

"We are probably going to adapt our warnings in the coming years, because this is something we haven't been seeing until now."

Young western lowland gorilla Richard eats frozen fruits to cool off in Prague. Photo by AFP

Spain fires under control

In Spain the death toll rose to seven after a 40-year-old German man on the Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James) pilgrimage succumbed to heat stroke on Sunday in the eastern region of Extremadura, a spokeswoman for Spain's Guardia Civil police force told AFP.

Local officials also recorded other heat stroke deaths in the Extremadura and Catalonia regions.

Firefighters, benefitting from calmer winds, were meanwhile gaining control of a wildfire in the southwestern province of Huelva, just across the border from the Algarve in southern Portugal.

Temperatures remained high, especially in the southeast where they were forecast to hit 40-42 C.

Portugal fires

In Portugal, temperatures have eased slightly but not by enough to make the job of some 1,100 firefighters aided by 160 soldiers in Monchique any easier pending the expected arrival of two Spanish Canadair firefighting planes.

Monchique, in southern Portugal, was shrouded in thick clouds of smoke early Monday after the authorities evacuated several houses overnight, with 24 people injured, one seriously.

Monday evening, Jorge Botelho, chairman of the Faro-based civil protection commission, said he believed the firefighting teams would rapidly get to grips with the blaze, better weather conditions permitting, telling reporters that "95 percent of the fire's perimeter" was under control.

The weather service said that after Saturday's peak, temperatures were back below 45 C and should continue lower over the next few days.

Smoke rose from a wildfire close to Monchique in the Algarve, southern Portugal, where more than a 1,000 firefighters are battling the blaze. Photo by AFP

Fresh spike in Germany

Germany expects a fresh spike mid-week to around 39 C before temperatures ease, with official figures showing the average for April-July running 3.6 degrees higher than the 1961-1990 reference period.

Farmers continued to plead for help, with the president of Germany's farmers' association, Joachim Rukwied, saying a billion euros ($1.15 billion) in government aid may be necessary as crop failure rates hit 70 percent in some areas.

More than a million children returned to school on Monday in three German states - Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland and Hesse -- but some were allowed to go home early because of the heatwave.

British islands in trouble

Britain saw continued hot weather in the south with a maximum of 32 C but it was cooler and cloudier in the north.

Reports said the persistent lack of rain has hit the country's more remote islands, such as Lundy in the Bristol Channel -- with a population in the dozens -- which is now reliant on bottled water from the mainland after local supplies ran dry.

Arran in Scotland, the Isle of Scilly in southwest England and Jersey in the Channel Islands have all asked people to cut water consumption, the Daily Express report added.

Netherlands

The heatwave has hit the low-lying Netherlands hard like many other countries but no one thought it could be a threat to its world-famous system of dams and canals designed to keep the sea at bay.

River levels have fallen so low that seawater is seeping in to waterways, and the Rijkswaterstaat, which manages the national water system, has been opening barrages inland to flush it out.

The European Association of Fruit and Vegetable Processors (Profel), based in neighbouring Belgium, lamented the effect of a third straight year of prolonged drought conditions.

"The extreme weather conditions experienced around Europe can lead to losses on the fields in both quality and quantity," a Profel statement said, warning of a "severe shortage in supplies in the coming period for all vegetable crops."

Greek fire toll rises to 91

Greece was a little cooler but the toll in last month's wildfire northeast of Athens rose to 91 as a 95-year-old woman died of her injuries, officials said.

Another 36 people remain hospitalised after the July 23 disaster, six of them in critical condition.

Scorching Scandinavia

Wildfires that have been raging across Sweden are abating, emergency services SOS Alarm said, adding that the blazes were down to eight on Monday.

The nation's far north saw heavy rainfall on Monday, authorities said, after record heat in the Arctic Circle triggered drought and wildfires. Drought is persisting in many other areas of the country.

In neighbouring Finland, a Helsinki supermarket opened its doors overnight Saturday to customers seeking refuge from the heat.

In a video released on Facebook, the K-Supermarket showed customers chilling on mattresses and in sleeping bags.
Ukrainian farmers thresh almost 29 mln tonnes of grain as of Aug 6

The average yield of cereals is estimated at 3.38 tonnes per hectare, the report says.

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Odesa Aircraft Plant to join efforts with two foreign companies to design, produce aircraft in Ukraine

The companies agreed to establish an international regional service center for current and major repairs of aircraft and helicopters.

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NBU changes rules for external audit of banks

Now, the central bank will be able to withdraw the external auditor selected by the bank for non-compliance with legislation, insufficient experience, and penalty history over the past three years.

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Ukrainian president's first deputy rep in Crimea suggests stopping bus service with Russia

The final decision is to be taken by the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine and the Cabinet of Ministers.

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American Pastor Andrew Brunson, wrongfully incarcerated in Turkey, was moved from Buca Prison to house arrest recently. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, While this move is a positive development, it is not enough. We have seen no credible evidence against Mr. Brunson, and we call on Turkish authorities to resolve his case immediately in a transparent and fair manner.

Vice President Mike Pence paid tribute to Pastor Brunson at the recent Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom, describing him as an American citizen whos lived in Turkey for more than two decades, raising his family there, and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, faithfully, in his ministry.

In 2016, Pastor Brunson was arrested by Turkish authorities, as part of a massive crackdown following a failed coup attempt. Tens of thousands of journalists, activists, judges, army officers, teachers, and others, including U.S. citizens, were arrested. Many remain imprisoned to this day.

Pastor Brunson was imprisoned without being charged for more than a year. And when the Turkish government finally indicted him on terrorism related charges, they also accused him of dividing and separating Turkey by simply spreading his Christian faith.

Pastor Andrew Brunson is an innocent man, declared Vice President Pence. Thats why the U.S. government has worked tirelessly to secure Pastor Brunsons release  as well as the release of other Americans, including Serkan Golge, and U.S. Mission employees.

Vice President Pence sent a direct message on behalf of President Trump to Turkish President Recep Erdogan: Release Pastor Andrew Brunson now, or be prepared to face the consequences. If Turkey does not take immediate action to free this innocent man of faith and send him home to America, the United States will impose significant sanctions on Turkey until Pastor Andrew Brunson is free.

On August 1, The U.S. Department of the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control took action targeting Turkeys Minister of Justice Abdulhamit Gul and Minister of Interior Suleyman Soylu, both of whom played leading roles in the organizations responsible for the arrest and detention of Pastor Andrew Brunson.

Advancing the cause of religious liberty is a just cause. Were advancing the first freedom that is essential to the people of all of our nations and to the world, stressed Vice President Pence.

The American people cherish religious freedom. And they will always stand with people across the world who stand for their faith, like Pastor Brunson.
Religious freedom is often called Americas first freedom. It is the first freedom Americas founders included in the U.S. Constitutions Bill of Rights. Speaking at the recently concluded Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom, Vice President Mike Pence, declared the United States will continue to lead the world by example in promoting this freedom.

The Vice President expressed concern over growing religious intolerance in many countries around the world, including countries in Europe. In Russia, for example, more than 170,000 Jehovahs Witnesses are legally banned from practicing their faith. Government agents have seized Jehovah Witnesses headquarters near St. Petersburg, raided their prayer halls across the country, and arrested and imprisoned scores of believers.

Just 70 years after the Holocaust, attacks on Jews in Europe, even on aging Holocaust survivors, are growing at an alarming rate.

The United States is also concerned about increasing incidents of anti-Muslim hatred. The United States is working with many European governments and multilateral organizations, like the European Union and Organization of Security and Cooperation in Europe, to combat anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim discrimination.

The American people will always cherish religious freedom. And we will always stand with people across the world, including in Europe, who stand for their faith.
UNIGHT TO UNITE. UCOM CELEBRATED ITS REBIRTH

Ameriabank and HSBC Armenia to provide their customers access to each others ATMs without additional fees

Ameriabank. 62.5% Growth in Taxes YOY

Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans have provided 300 million AMD to overcome the infertility in Armenia

UCOM has officially launched the sale of IPHONE 13

Six servicemen were wounded by the attack of the Azerbaijani armed forces in Artsakh, two of them in critical condition

S&P Improved the Outlook on Ameriabank to Positive

Ararat Mirzoyan to visit to Minsk

Foreign Minister of India visits the Memorial of Armenian Genocide

1217 new cases

Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia

Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

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Ameriabanks Special Offer for New Clients of Hrazdan Branch

"Fall forward": Gurgen Khachatryan, the Co-Founder of the Galaxy Group of Companies, addressed a message to young people in Armenia

UCOM hosted interns of Russian CBOSS corporation for a month

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The 20-episode Bloody bet thriller to be broadcast on Ucom's Armenia Premium TV channel

Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

UCOM offers affordable gadgets at bigger discount

Foreign Minister of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan will pay a working visit to New York

Governments preventing publication of Haykakan Zhamanak newspaper during state of emergency

UCOM prolongs the unlimited internet offer for the level up 4700 and level up 5500 subscribers

Ucom employees received recognition for their services to the homeland

Karen Vardanyan has allocated 105 million AMD to rescue the Yerevan Botanical Garden.

"The Power of One Dram" to overcome childhood cancer

Generation A 13  your chance to be the change

President of the Artsakh Republic Arayik Harutyunyan met with Russian Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group Igor Khovayev

"uDays" special offer at Ucom: discounts for all smartphones and accessories for 2 days only

For more than 3 hours, 50 or more Azerbaijani servicemen have blocked the interstate road
UNIGHT TO UNITE. UCOM CELEBRATED ITS REBIRTH

Ameriabank and HSBC Armenia to provide their customers access to each others ATMs without additional fees

Ameriabank. 62.5% Growth in Taxes YOY

Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans have provided 300 million AMD to overcome the infertility in Armenia

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UCOM has officially launched the sale of IPHONE 13

Six servicemen were wounded by the attack of the Azerbaijani armed forces in Artsakh, two of them in critical condition

S&P Improved the Outlook on Ameriabank to Positive

Ararat Mirzoyan to visit to Minsk

Foreign Minister of India visits the Memorial of Armenian Genocide

1217 new cases

Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia

Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

At UCOM only: Tv sets at 10% discount + 1 month free UMIX package + 4k tv channel

Ameriabanks Special Offer for New Clients of Hrazdan Branch

"Fall forward": Gurgen Khachatryan, the Co-Founder of the Galaxy Group of Companies, addressed a message to young people in Armenia

UCOM hosted interns of Russian CBOSS corporation for a month

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The 20-episode Bloody bet thriller to be broadcast on Ucom's Armenia Premium TV channel

Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

UCOM offers affordable gadgets at bigger discount

Foreign Minister of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan will pay a working visit to New York

Governments preventing publication of Haykakan Zhamanak newspaper during state of emergency

UCOM prolongs the unlimited internet offer for the level up 4700 and level up 5500 subscribers

Ucom employees received recognition for their services to the homeland

Karen Vardanyan has allocated 105 million AMD to rescue the Yerevan Botanical Garden.

"The Power of One Dram" to overcome childhood cancer

Generation A 13  your chance to be the change

President of the Artsakh Republic Arayik Harutyunyan met with Russian Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group Igor Khovayev

"uDays" special offer at Ucom: discounts for all smartphones and accessories for 2 days only

For more than 3 hours, 50 or more Azerbaijani servicemen have blocked the interstate road
Hasmik Kirakosyan: Gyumri residents are being told that they are boasts, but this is not senseless (video)

"A new cultural name has come in Armenia- community culture. What is the community?" Gyumri Mayor's advisor Hasmik Kirakosyan says: "We have a national culture. And the national culture, yes, should not be accumulated in the capital." According to her, the decentralization process is being implemented incorrectly, and as a result, the cultural life of the regions does not develop normally. "Golden Apricot and Erebuni-Yerevan Festival are organizing events in Yerevan, but where are the provinces?" The mayor's advisor compares the Armenian world to the Armenian carpet with its diversity. "We should kept the taste and smell of our culture, our diverse traditions and dialects like gems." According to Mrs. Kirakosyan, Artsakh, for example, implements the right cultural policy. It has opened museums of Armenian carpets and Armenian dialects. That is to say, the local culture should be kept and developed, which will enrich the national culture. "And, for example, the cultural town Gyumri, unfortunately, does not have the 'height' that it had before the earthquake. It is my opinion, as a fifty-year culture figure," says Mrs. Kirakosyan. According to her, culture is the pillar that the people have survived, the culture has served its people without betraying. And the people must remain loyal to its ever-present culture, and pay great attention to it. "Gyumri has always been a progressive cultural city, it has been a masterful city," says Mrs. Kirakosyan and tells humor about how Nikolai Tsar had come to Gyumri and admired, and then told his brother about the city of seven churches, and his brotheer came and saw, admired and said to the masters, "You have done something wrong, you had to put wheels under the city so that you could show it to the world, the world will see and admire it." "Gyumri residents are being told that they are boasts, but this is not senseless," continues Mrs. Kirakosyan, "Gyumri has something to praise." They have interesting projects and Mrs. Kirakosyan is convinced that Gyumri has much to say to the world.
Interpipe pipe and wheel company (Dnipro) at a meeting with the creditors in London on July 17 presented a preliminary plan for restructuring its liabilities worth $1.25 billion, Concorde Capital investment company has reported, with reference to a report by Reorg Research.

The debtor, in particular, proposes to convert this debt into six-year eurobonds for $310 million with a coupon of 9.35% per annum, as well as two credit tranches of $45 million to Ukrainian banks and $45 million to international ones. The rest of the debt will be written off.

Eurobond holders and international banks will also receive securities, payments on which will be tied to Interpipe's EBITDA. Ukrainian banks will not receive the relevant securities, at the same time they will have less debt forgiveness.

The terms of restructuring also imply imposing a $40 million fine on Interpipe if it allows non-payment under new eurobonds or loans to international banks.

Interpipe intends to pay creditors a substantial commission fee if the restructuring plan for liabilities is approved.

The adviser to the debtor is Stephenson Harwood (the UK), to the creditors Alvarez & Marsal and Allen & Overy (the UK).
The introduction of the action plan on base erosion and profit shifting (BEPS) is a global trend, resistance to which could result in the change of registration of many Ukrainian businesses, according to First Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) Kateryna Rozhkova.

"Ukraine has no other way but to follow the BEPS action plan. The banking secrecy, in its classical sense, is already dying: globalization, convergence, financial technologies - all this erases the borders between countries. We can do nothing, but then we will remain on the margins," she said in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine.

As an example of possible consequences Rozhkova mentioned the impact of the U.S. foreign account tax compliance act (FATCA) on business.

"The United States adopted its act in 2010, signed it with all countries and today exchanges this information unilaterally. If you refuse to be transparent, the world community puts you in a "gray zone." This, in turn, means that your business, which intends to enter international markets, will have to meet higher requirements: they will carefully check KYC [know your client] files, all transactions, contracts... All these will complicate the work of the business, and if companies cannot conduct business with the Ukrainian "residence," then we will eventually lose them," she said.

According to Rozhkova, the experience of countries implementing the BEPS action plan shows a significant increase in tax revenues by expanding the tax base, despite the fact that the tax burden in these countries has declined. At the same time, she added that for this it is important to take care of the comfort environment for the business and, in particular, to provide an understandable and acceptable tax burden at the initial stage, the quality administration of taxes and the easiness for paying taxes.
The State Space Agency of Ukraine (SSAU) has said that the option for the sale of the first Ukrainian telecommunications satellite Lybid to an international operator to settle the dispute with Canada's MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) at the London Court of International Arbitration is not being considered.

"Such ideas regarding the sale of the Lybid satellite to an international operator [for settling the dispute with MDA] were not considered at the SSAU," SSAU Head Pavlo Degtiarenko told Interfax-Ukraine on Tuesday, while commenting on media reports, referring to an unnamed source, on assessments in this regard.

The satellite was created under a contract signed by SSAU and Canada's MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) in December 2009. A loan worth $254.6 million was raised from Export Development Canada (EDC) against government guarantees to build the satellite on the Express 1000NT platform, developed by Russia's Information Satellite Systems  Reshetnev Company. Since summer 2014, the satellite has been in safe custody at the Russian developer, as was instructed by the Canadian general contractor.

The implementation of the project was under a threat of a failure due to the annexation of Crimea and the loss of land infrastructure involved in the project by Ukraine. Taking additional financial liabilities, Ukraine has overcome force majeure: in 2014-2015 a new spacecraft control center was built on Ukraine's mainland.

Ukraine's government in October 2017 supported SSAU's proposal for additional financing of the project in the amount of $17 million, taking into account increased costs.
Denisova: Ukraine and Georgia will cooperate in matters of displaced persons

Ukraine and Georgia will cooperate in the matters of internally displaced persons, Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights Liudmyla Denisova has stated.

"One of the most acute issues for Ukraine today is the issue of internally displaced people. And the experience of other countries is very important for us. Therefore today at a meeting with Ambassador of Georgia Gela Dumbadze we've agreed on cooperation in this direction," she wrote on Facebook.

She noted that Georgia has extensive experience in paying pensions and calculating the needs of internally displaced persons.

"Mr. Gela Dumbadze said that the Georgian side is ready to cooperate and exchange experience," Denisova said.
Ukraine will form an interagency coordination body soon in order to sue Russia for the damage it has inflicted on Donbas, Ukrainian Deputy Justice Minister Serhiy Petukhov said.

"This is what our colleagues at the Ministry of Temporarily Occupied Territories are doing. I know their draft is in the final stage. It has now reached us. We are the last ministry to release all draft acts. I think this council will be created very soon," Petukhov said on Channel 5 on Monday.

The council will be tasked with coordinating all government bodies' activity related to lawsuits over the Donbas aggression, he said.

On August 1, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko proposed setting up a coordination body to sue Russia over the ruination of Donbas. Such a body was envisaged by the Donbas reintegration law approved in January of this year, which "explicitly reaffirms Ukraine's commitment to a peaceful resolution and reflects my idea of the peaceful reintegration of the occupied region," Poroshenko said.
A higher court in Nice (France) has ruled in favor of companies owned by members of the Liovochkin family against Member of Parliament of Ukraine deputy Vadym Rabinovych and ordered the latter to pay court costs and other expenses amounting to over EUR 500,000.

The court ruling, which the Kyiv-based Interfax-Ukraine news agency has obtained, says Rabinovych did not have the authority to act in the name of Ukraine's government and receive permission for the temporary arrest of property belonging to Liovochkin's companies in France.

The court ruled that Rabinovych did not have the authority to appeal to a foreign court in the name of Ukraine and revoked permission for the temporary arrest of real estate.

According to the court, Rabinovych is obliged to pay parliament deputy Yulia Liovochkina and two companies a total of EUR 9,000  EUR 3,000 to each. In addition, Rabinovych will lose about EUR 400,000 which he paid for the groundless arrest of the property and fees to remove the lien on the property.

Dan Shefet, the lawyer representing Yulia Liovochkina in the dispute, told Interfax-Ukraine, "We will demand in a French court that Rabinovych pay compensation for besmirching the reputation of our clients and damages. I think there will be further cases against Rabinovych for his deliberate misuse of the French legal system."

According to Shefet, revoking a court lien on real estate is very expensive in France and the court will make Rabinovych pay the costs.

"Taking into account that he already lost around EUR 400,000 spent on registering the groundless court lien, Rabinovych's total losses as a result of this legal dispute could grown to more than EUR 500,000," Shefet said.

As earlier reported, in February 2018 Rabinovych said that a Nice-based court had arrested property belonging to parliament deputy Serhiy Liovochkin (the Opposition Bloc). Rabinovych said then that he paid a EUR 400,000 fee out of his own pocket for the court lien on the property.

According to Rabinovych's e-declaration for 2017, his income was UAH 213,000.
New weapons, military gear will be shown during Independence Day parade in Kyiv  Poltorak

New weapons and military equipment used by Ukraine's Armed Forces, as well as experimental gear, will be demonstrated at the military parade on Independence Day and the 100th anniversary of the revival of Ukrainian statehood, which will be held on August 24, Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak has said.

"This year, 4,500 servicemen and 250 military pieces of equipment will take part in the military parade ... During the passage of the mechanized column, new models of weapons and equipment that are already in service and those that are being tested by the state will be demonstrated," Poltorak said on his Facebook page.

According to him, 24 formations will march down the main street of the capital, representing units of the Armed Forces, National Guard, State Border Service, SBU Security Service and other agencies which protect and defend Ukraine.

During the rehearsal of the parade in Kyiv on Tuesday, Poltorak said that Ukraine has invited representatives of partner countries to the parade.

"Some 15 partners have already confirmed their participation, most of them from NATO member countries," the minister said.

Poltorak said the parade would showcase new military weapons systems being developed and tested.

When asked about the new 150mm artillery systems, the minister said they would be put into operation after the end of artillery fire tests.

The minister noted that the tests are already underway today. He expressed the hope that they would succeed. He also said that he would make a final decision on the adoption of the new weapons systems on August 10.

"I think that you will be pleasantly surprised by what you will see at the parade," he said.
Ukraine's Foreign Ministry demands Russia free Ukrainian political prisoners Volodymr Balukh and Oleh Sentsov, who are continuing their hunger strike, Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Mariana Betsa has said.

"142 86 Human lives are behind these numbers [number of days, respectively, both men have been on hunger strike]. Balukh continues his hunger strike, along with Sentsov. We demand Russia release them," Betsa said on her Twitter page on Tuesday.

As earlier reported, Ukrainian farmer Balukh was arrested on December 8, 2016, in his house in the village of Serebrianka of Rozdolne district of Crimea, which is temporarily occupied by the Russian Federation. Russian authorities charged him with possession of ammunition.

Crimea's Rozdolne District Court sentenced Balukh to three years and seven months of imprisonment in a low-security penal colony and to a fine of 10,000 Russian rubles. Balukh's defense team said the case was fabricated, and his verdict would be appealed in courts of higher instances.

Balukh started his hunger strike on March 14, 2018, over the fabricated case against him.

In August 2015, the North Caucasus District Military Court in Russia's Rostov-on-Don sentenced Sentsov, who was detained in Crimea in 2014, to 20 years in a high-security penitentiary. He was accused of creating a terrorist group in Crimea.

Sentsov went on a hunger strike on May 14 and demanded that all Ukrainian citizens held in Russia be set free.

He is serving time in a high-security penitentiary known as the Polar Bear in the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Region.
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry, on the instruction of President Petro Poroshenko, has drafted a bill on changing a salute for servicemen from "Hello Comrades!" and "Good Day, Sir!" to "Glory to Ukraine!" and "Glory to Heroes!", the ministry's press service has told the Interfax-Ukraine news agency.

"There was such an order from the head of state, and a respective draft law is ready. President Petro Poroshenko will submit it to the Verkhovna Rada," the ministry's press service said on Tuesday.

Earlier, Defense Minister Stepan Poltorak said that the president had ordered the preparation of amendments to the legislation on the military charter and expressed hope that lawmakers would consider changes during a new parliament session, which begins in September.

According to Poltorak, the salute "Glory to Ukraine!" and "Glory to Heroes!" will be used during an Independence Day parade in Kyiv on August 24.

As reported, the bill No. 7549 introducing amendments to certain laws of Ukraine on military service, which was submitted by the government, was registered in parliament on February 5, 2018.

"The person who handed a battle flag salutes the personnel of a military unit with the receipt of the battle flag with the words 'Glory to Ukraine.' The personnel of the military unit respond to the salute 'Glory to Heroes.' After that the commander of the military unit delivers a speech," according to the proposed amendments.

In addition, it is suggested that all servicemen standing in or out of the line reply "Glory to Heroes" to the chief or a person with a senior military rank saluting them "Glory to Ukraine." If the chief or a person with a senior military rank bids farewell, servicemen also respond to his words "Glory to Ukraine" with the words "Glory to Heroes." Thus, it is stipulated that these words will replace the current greeting "Hello Comrades" and the answer "Good Day, Sir."

The parliament has not yet considered the bill.
The health of Ukrainian director Oleg Sentsov, imprisoned in the in a high-security penitentiary known as the Polar Bear in the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Region, has worsened.

Hromadske.ua, citing Sentsov's lawyer, reported that he has severely decreased hemoglobin, which led to anemia, and a very low pulse, about 40 beats per minute.

Sentsov's lawyer Dmitry Dinze, who twice failed to convince him to go to the hospital, said Sentsov's heart is bad and that he tolerates heat poorly.

In August 2015, the North Caucasus District Military Court in Russia's Rostov-on-Don sentenced Sentsov, who was detained in Crimea in 2014, to 20 years in a high-security penitentiary. He was accused of creating a terrorist group in Crimea.

Sentsov went on a hunger strike on May 14 and demanded that all Ukrainian citizens held in Russia be set free.
On Wednesday, August 8, at 11.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference entitled "Destroying national education under the pretext of a new Ukrainian school." The event is to highlight threats of new education reform for children with special educational needs, who will study in the system of inclusive education, students of senior grades with subject oriented instruction. Participant are: Chairman of the Party of Defenders of the Fatherland, Member of Parliament of 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 6th convocations, Senator of the International Parliament for Safety and Peace, Honored Lawyer of Ukraine, PhD, Yuriy Karmazin; candidate of legal sciences, head of NGO Luhansk Human Rights Group, co-coordinator of the public union "All-Ukrainian Platform of Donbas" Natalia Tselovalnichenko; President of International Innovation Center for Harmonious Human Development, candidate of medical sciences, author of the doctors and teachers training project "Harmony of Intellect and Health" Natalia Yanovska; member of the international charitable foundation "Spirituality and Health" Olena Kalinina (8/5a Reitarska Street). Accreditation of journalists by phone: +38 098 428 8527 or e-mail: pzinfo@ukr.net.
Interfax-Ukraine to host press conference 'The Failure of State Support for Farmers by the Government  A Study of the Status of State Support for Farmers in 2018'

On Thursday, August 9, at 11.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference entitled "The Failure of State Support for Farmers by the Government  A Study of the Status of State Support for Farmers in 2018" with the participation of Chairman of the Committee of the Association of Farmers and Private Landowners of Ukraine Ivan Slobodianyk (8/5-A Reitarska Street). Accreditation of journalists requires press accreditation. Additional information can be obtained by phone (098) 544 7432.
Iran's hardline-dominated Assembly of Experts has called on President Hassan Rouhani to be accountable for Iran's "chaotic economic situation," and demanded extensive overhaul of his cabinet.

In Irans worsening economic situation, hardliners have been increasingly putting the blame on Rouhani, demanding action.

Irans economy has nosedived due to long years of sanctions, but more fundamentally because of mismanagement and lack of structural reforms. Hardliners who play a major role in the inefficient system are the first to oppose serious reforms.

The AoE statement published on the website of IRGC-linked news agency Tasnim, also addresses Rouhani's economic team and the other powers of the government, but its demands particularly address Rouhani.

According to Tasnim, "the statement called on Rouhani to bring about extensive changes in the cabinet and among his senior economic and financial managers to improve the country's economic situation," using what elderly AoE members called "lively forces."

The Assembly told Rouhani to do this "without any consideration," meaning that Rouhani should forget about his cabinet members' political affiliations or their personal bonds with him as his long-time team members.

The Assembly of Experts' main function is to determine a new Supreme Leader when he is no longer around or capable to meet his official responsibilities, and to supervise the leader's performance. Nevertheless, the assembly has been always criticized by both hardliners such as former President Mahmud Ahmadinejad and reformists such as Abolfazl Qadiani, for being subordinate to Khamenei rather than to exercise checks and balances to control his authoritarian rule.

The Assembly's mission statement does not include offering policy options to the executive body or meddling with executive affairs of the state.

However, following protests that started with public discontent over the country's economy and soon turned into political dissent, more than 190 of parliament's 290 members last week also called on Rouhani to make essential changes to his cabinet to address the ongoing economic crisis, which is marked by a fast-declining currency and rising prices.

The AoE statement further called on Rouhani "to stop lip service and start addressing the people's financial hardships and particularly the problems of the underprivileged strata."

The statement has been signed off by "The Assembly of Experts." However, it is not clear whether it reflects the views of its members or presidium, or simply contains the views of its Chairman Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati.

A statement issued by the Assembly in May against Rouhani, turned out to have been authored and signed only by Jannati when other Assembly members said they had not signed such a statement and did not agree with its contents. Later, the AoE secretariat admitted that the statement reflected the views of the chairman and not the members of the Assembly of Experts.

The new statement by the AoE, regardless of who signed it, could be yet another attempt by Iran's hardliners to exert their influence on the cabinet and rob Rouhani of some of his ministers who are relatively moderate conservatives. These include Labor, Economy, Housing and Mining ministers who are from Iran's reform camp although like most Iranian reformists, their policies are far from implementing real reforms.

In the second term of former pragmatist President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani (1992-1997), hardliners managed to take control of several ministries including Culture and Trade, curtailing Rafsanjani's power to a minimum.

Iran's hardliners do not conceal their plan to take over a few ministries, but Rouhani has reminded them several times during the past year that "their candidate lost the election in 2017" and they should let the winner to implement his policies with his own team.
ANKARA, Aug 6 (Reuters) -

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani dismissed a U.S. call for talks on Monday, hours before Washington was due to impose new sanctions in line with President Donald Trump's decision to pull out of a 2015 agreement over Iran's nuclear program.

Washington has said the only way Iran could avert the sanctions would be to agree to new negotiations to abandon its missile and nuclear programmes.

In a televised address, Rouhani said there could be no talks as long as Washington was reneging on the deal.

"If you stab someone with a knife and then you say you want talks, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife," Rouhani said.

"We are always in favour of diplomacy and talks ... But talks need honesty," Rouhani said. "Trump's call for direct talks is only for domestic consumption in America ahead of elections ... and to create chaos in Iran."

European allies tried and failed to persuade Trump not to walk out of the 2015 agreement, under which Iran agreed to curbs on its nuclear program in return for the lifting of international sanctions. Rouhani said Washington would come to rue a move that had been rejected by other countries.

"America will regret imposing sanctions on Iran ... They're already isolated in the world. They are imposing sanctions on Iranian children, patients and the nation," he said.

The prospect of sanctions has already hurt Iran's economy, with the rial currency falling this year and the government cracking down on protests. Rouhani called on Iranians to unite in the face of hardship.

"There will be pressure because of sanctions but we will overcome this with unity," he said.

The Trump administration argues that the curbs did not go far enough and it wants to force Iran back to the negotiating table. Iran says that by abandoning the agreement Washington has shown it cannot negotiate in good faith.

Last month, Trump said that he would be willing to meet Rouhani without preconditions to discuss how to improve relations.

Senior Iranian officials and military commanders have rejected Trumps offer of talks as worthless and a dream, saying his words contradicted his action of reimposing sanctions.
Iran has struggled with chronic drought for over a decade, and it is currently estimated that 97 percent of the country is experiencing drought conditions. Iran is in the midst of a full-blown water crisis, and the shortages are among the factors leading to widespread unrest in Iranian society.

As reported by ILNA, the Iranian Labor News Agency, protestors blocked the main road leading into the southern Iranian city of Borazjan as part of protests over water scarcity July 22. The New York based Center For Human Rights reported cases of violent encounters between protesters and security forces.

A civilian who was shot dead by state security forces during the recent demonstration in Borazjan (Bushehr province in southern Iran) against the citys water crisis, was identified as Iman Ahmadi, the Center For Human Rights reported.

This was not the first case of water-related protests turning violent this summer, with violent protests kicking off in Khorramshahr, a city in the southern province of Khuzestan, earlier on July 1.

"No one has been killed in the unrest and just one person has been wounded in a shooting," announced Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli.

These protests are emblematic of the wider problems caused by the ongoing water crisis in Iran. Although primarily caused by water shortages in the cities, both the protest in Borazjan and in Khorramshahr have quickly turned to targeting government mismanagement and corruption. The protests in Borazjan in particular were largely influenced by the lack of response from authorities in the Dashtestan province to the installation of water pumps for the irrigation of orchards in the nearby city of Kazeroon that drained residents water supply.

Mohammad Baqir Saadat, the Dashtestan representative to the parliament, was reported to have said, The peoples anger is justified. They are even entitled to insult the authorities.

In this sense, water shortages only ferment deeply rooted sentiments in the citizens, which are often related to larger issues and dissatisfaction with the governments decision making. The interplay between poor planning and severe droughts has a pronounced agrarian character in Iran. According to the latest statistics provided by the Energy Ministry, there have been only 166 millimeters of rainfall in Iran since October 2017, marking a 26.5 percent decrease from the previous year. This highlights the immense challenges for Iranian farmers and, indeed, the government, which seeks to make Iran self-sufficient in its agricultural production.

Yet the governments industrial ambitions have also taken their toll on the position of farmers in drought-ridden areas. Finishing the construction of a steel mill in Isfahan in July, the governments desire to increase the countrys industrial production has put pressure on the already precious water resources. By diverting water to factories or hydroelectric dams, the formerly arable lands cannot be used by farmers for the growing of water-intensive crops such as cotton or wheat. This can quickly lead to dissatisfaction amongst the ranks of unemployed farmers such as 57-year-old Habib Ramazani. "I am speechless. No official pays attention to our miserable situation, he said.

The water crisis has an equally environmental dimension, which does not provide any solace either. Due to both crippling heat and inefficient irrigation, the wetlands in the eastern and southeastern parts of Iran have largely dried up, with some estimates stating that 60 out of total 105 have completely dried out. According to Masoud Baqerzadeh, the deputy environment chief for the wetlands, a total of 1.3 million hectares are affected by drought. In turn, the sandy soils of the dry lake beds cause severe sand storms, which lead to further issues in both rural and urban areas.

As shown by the reaction of the citizen of Abadan, a major port in the Khuzestan province, water mismanagement and environmental issues caused by the drought can also lead to disruptive migration. Indeed, an Abadan city official said in June that over 80 thousand people have left the city in the past year alone. These migratory movements may lead to further instability in the cities, as well as to a further strain on resources and infrastructure in other regions.

Despite the clamor for better planning and solutions, the events surrounding the water crisis highlight Iranian societys vulnerability to water shortage. Considering the ongoing issues with corruption amongst officials and inefficient infrastructural planning, it can only be expected that these problems will continue.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

Trend:

The Azerbaijani-Swiss business forum will be held in Switzerlands Canton of Ticino in September.

An agreement about holding the business forum was reached during a meeting of Azerbaijani ambassador to Switzerland Khanim Ibrahimova with Head of the International Cooperation Department of the Chamber of Commerce of Ticino Kiara Crivelli and Mayor of Lugano Marco Borradori.

During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on the Azerbaijan-Switzerland relations, a favorable investment sphere and economic reforms being carried out in Azerbaijan.

The possibilities of organizing events related to Azerbaijans economy were also discussed.

During the conversation, the mutual visits between the representatives of Azerbaijan and Canton of Ticino were also discussed.

Presently, 71 companies with Swiss capital operate in Azerbaijan. Moreover, Azerbaijan invested $1.2 billion in Switzerland. In 2017, trade turnover between the countries amounted to $240 million, which is 40 percent more than in 2016.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

Trend:

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has signed an order providing additional funds for the construction of a hydroelectric power station in the city of Ordubad, the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.

Under the presidential order, 13.5 million manats will be allocated to the Cabinet of Ministers of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic for continuing the construction of the 36 MW hydroelectric power station.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

Trend:

The individuals arrested in the US are citizens of Azerbaijan, spokesman for the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Hikmet Hajiyev said.

A criminal gang, which includes citizens of Turkey, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Russia, Ukraine, Latvia and Azerbaijan, was detained in the US. Members of the gang are accused of fraud and money laundering in the amount of $4.5 million.

Hajiyev said the US law enforcement agencies informed the embassy of Azerbaijan. He added that the consular service of the embassy is in contact with US law enforcement agencies to meet with the mentioned individuals.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

Anvar Mammadov - Trend:

Burning straw on the fields after harvest, contrary to some farmers' opinion, negatively affects the yield, the ex-minister of agriculture of Azerbaijan's Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, Rajab Orujov, told Trend.

"Burning straw does not affect the growth of yield in any positive way. The erroneous opinion of Azerbaijani farmers on the benefits of this step is one of the main problems in our agriculture sector. The soil in Azerbaijan is mainly sierozem (brownish-grey soil) - the balance of nutrition elements is relatively low in them and the microbiological processes are very weak. Burning the residues on the fields after harvesting leads to the destruction of all useful microbes in the soil. This, in turn, complicates the formation of humus, which negatively affects the agricultural productivity," Orujov said.

According to him, the reason for burning leftovers on the fields by farmers is an attempt to prevent soil salinization.

"We have a very big gap between the volume of precipitation and the level of evaporation. For example, in the Aran zone precipitation is 240-260 millimeters per year, but the evaporation rate is 1,000-1,200 millimeters per year. As a result, lumpiness increases, which adversely affects the soil structure. Therefore, farmers tend to burn the residues of crop after harvesting," he added.

Orujov stressed that given this fact, it is necessary to raise awareness among farmers and agronomists in the regions of the country and to find other methods of preventing soil salinization and explain to them that mixing crop residues with the soil is much more useful than burning.

"Incinerating is not an option. It would be better to train farmers to start re-plowing a couple of days after harvesting. This prevents increase in lumpiness and on the other hand, preserves the microorganisms involved in the formation of humus," Orujov said.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @Anvar_Mammadov
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

Trend:

The State Border Service (SBS) of Azerbaijan has detained four foreign citizens who tried to cross the state border with forged documents, the Service said in a statement Aug. 7.

The documents presented at the border control by a Pakistani citizen who arrived on the Dubai-Baku flight had signs of falsification. During the test, the laboratory confirmed that the page of the passport, which contains information about its owner, was changed, and also confirmed the forgery of the permanent residence card issued in Spain.

Also, there were suspicions of forgery of the passport presented at the border control by a person who introduced himself as a Spanish citizen and was going to travel on the Baku-Riga flight. After checking the forgery of the passport was confirmed. It was found out that the person was a Pakistani national, and it was revealed during a personal search that he has a Pakistani passport.

In addition, the dates of stamps on crossing the state border of Azerbaijan in the passport presented at the Baku airport by a citizen of Uzbekistan, who arrived on the Moscow-Baku flight, as well as in the passport of a citizen of Uzbekistan entering Azerbaijan from Russia through the "Samur" checkpoint on the state border, were forged.

The necessary measures are being taken in connection with these facts.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Matanat Nasibova  Trend:

The dynamic development of women's entrepreneurship in Azerbaijan will contribute to the creation of new brands and the export of products to foreign markets in the CIS and Europe in the future, chairperson of the board of the Azerbaijan Women Entrepreneurs Association Sakina Babayeva told Trend, assessing the current level of development of women's entrepreneurship in the country.

She said that presently, more than 143,000 women are engaged in entrepreneurial activity in Azerbaijan.

"In my opinion, this is a fairly high figure, and it will definitely increase," Babayeva said. "Azerbaijan receives 80 percent of the gross domestic product from the private sector, and it is obvious that women entrepreneurs also make great contribution to the development of the private sector."

"As a result of important economic reforms being carried out in Azerbaijan, the number of women entrepreneurs in the country has greatly increased," she added.

"Presently, besides the agricultural sector, Azerbaijani women entrepreneurs are actively involved in health and education sectors," Babayeva said. "Many of them own private medical clinics and various educational institutions. Effective use of the business and intellectual potential of women increases the level of employment and development medium and small business."

"Currently, the products of the Azerbaijan National Clothes Center and other enterprises run by women entrepreneurs under the Made in Azerbaijan brand are produced in the country," she said.

"The establishment of the association is primarily aimed at strengthening the role of women in the field of entrepreneurship, as well as the dynamic development of small and medium-sized businesses in Azerbaijan," Babayeva said.

"The Women Entrepreneurs Association was established with the support of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs, and we expect that it will contribute to greater intensification of women's entrepreneurship and further expansion of the country's export opportunities," she said.

"In my opinion, the development of women's entrepreneurship plays an important role in society and, along with the development of the business sphere in Azerbaijan, it is aimed at ensuring the rights of women and gender equality," Babayeva said.

"The creation of legal foundations, granting of preferential loans to individuals, engaged in entrepreneurial activity, the introduction of preferential tax rates in many spheres, and in particular, the exemption of entrepreneurs engaged in agriculture from all taxes, created serious opportunities for the development of business in the country, including women's entrepreneurship," she said. "Thats why the number of women entrepreneurs, preferring agrarian sphere, is being increased."

"The growth of entrepreneurship in Azerbaijan is one of the priority directions of the country's economic policy and special attention has been recently paid to the expansion of small and medium-sized businesses, and in particular to the development of women's business in the country," Babayeva said.

"In the future, this can reduce the level of poverty and increase the social and economic authority of Azerbaijani women in society and the region," she said.

The Azerbaijan Women Entrepreneurs Association was established in October 2017.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Fikret Dolukhanov  Trend:

France abolished restrictions on supply of Uzbek melons and pomegranates, Foreign Trade Ministry of Uzbekistan stated after talks in Paris between the Agriculture Ministry of France and a delegation of Uzbekistan headed by Foreign Trade Minister Jamshid Khojayev.

"Following the talks held in France in the Agriculture Ministry, phytosanitary restrictions on Uzbek melons and pomegranates have been removed. On top of that, quarantine requirements for import of quinces, persimmons, plums, currants and other agricultural products from Uzbekistan were submitted for consideration," the Foreign Trade Ministry said.

The statement reads that republic's non-oil export to France is currently presented in insignificant amounts due to the difficulty of getting Uzbek products to the European market, which has high requirements.

"We are negotiating with the European Union and, in particular, with France in order to maximally facilitate entry of Uzbek products to European markets by bringing our standards in line with EU requirements. So, we will be able to realize all the existing potential for export of horticultural and textile products," Khojayev said.

Khojayev also visited Rungis Market, the world's largest wholesale market of fresh products. Following the talks, the parties agreed to conduct training seminars and cooperate in accreditation aimed at promoting fruit and vegetable products in the French market.

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Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Leman Zeynalova - Trend:

Revenues of the Kazakh national welfare fund Samruk-Kazyna JSC increased by 27 percent in 1H2018 compared to the same period of 2017, Yernar Zhanadil, co-managing director of Samruk-Kazyna for economy and finance, said, primeminister.kz reports.

According to him, the operating profit plan was fulfilled by 78 percent and reached 428 billion tenges, which is 43.1 percent higher than in 2017.

"Oil refining increased by 13 percent, electricity production by 28 percent, railway freight turnover by 9 percent. The positive dynamics of prices for hydrocarbons played a significant role," Zhanadil said.

"The Fund reduced external debt by $900 million in 1H2018," he said, "Samruk-Energo provided early repayment of loans in the amount of almost 39 billion tenges."

The national welfare fund Samruk-Kazyna's only shareholder is the government of Kazakhstan. The fund was founded in 2008 as an investment holding whose mission is to improve the national welfare and support the modernization of the national economy.

(348.21 KZT = 1 USD on Aug. 4)

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Baku, Azerbaijan, , Aug. 7

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

The efforts for diversification of Azerbaijans economy will open more opportunities for Romanian companies, Ambassador of Romania to Azerbaijan Dan Iancu said in an interview with Trend.

"I think that our economic cooperation has a lot of room to grow. Romania has a diverse economy, with a strong manufacturing base and a competitive service sector. At the same time, the economic growth is accelerating in Azerbaijan. Moreover, the efforts for the diversification of the Azerbaijani economy would provide not only a solid engine for sustainable growth, but also more opportunities for foreign companies, Romanian ones included," said the envoy.

As for the current status of the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Romania, Iancu said that the statistics show a good dynamic: the bilateral trade has grown without interruption over the past years.

He noted that 2017 was a record-breaking year, with two-way trade reaching almost $400 million. "This makes Azerbaijan, by far, our biggest trade partner in the South Caucasus Region."

"We should take advantage of these factors and help our business circles discover this untapped potential. I am sure that the next meeting of the Joint Inter-Governmental Commission, which shall take place in Bucharest, will provide new impetus to our bilateral cooperation in the field of trade and various economic areas," added Iancu.

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Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

Trend:

Uzbekistan will participate in the development of the agreement on free trade zone for services between the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), Uzbek media reports.

In this regard a working group has been established. The working group, headed by Minister of Foreign Trade Jamshid Khodjaev, includes representatives of the ministries of finance, economy, justice, foreign affairs, national education, higher and secondary specialized education, the State Committee for Investments, the Central Bank, UzAvtoTrans, Uzbekistan Railways and Uzbekistan Airlines.

The draft agreement provides for access of organizations, companies and institutions to the CIS member states service markets.

The document covers all service sectors, including financial, banking, transportation, education, insurance and other services, except for services provided in public procurement.

The agreement on free trade zone for services within the CIS will not only facilitate free exchange of labor resources, realization of educational advantages, but will also create favorable conditions for investments by citizens of one CIS country in the territory of another CIS country, and will ensure the protection of these investments, Khodjayev said.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug.7

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

Iran can live with the first part of the US sanctions, which does not mean it will not suffer from it, Francis Perrin, Senior Fellow at the OCP Policy Center (Rabat, Morocco), Senior Research Fellow at the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs (IRIS, Paris), told Trend.

He noted that on 6 August several sanctions against Iran are re-imposed by the US. "They cover in particular the acquisition of US dollar banknotes by the Iranian government, Iran's trade in gold, precious metals, raw and semi-finished metals, transactions related to the purchase or sale of Iranian rials, the purchase or facilitation of the issuance of Iran sovereign debt and the automotive sector."

It is of course a first hard blow for the Iranian economy, the expert believes.

"More is to come with a second wave of sanctions on 4 November. They will cover the key sectors for Iran such as oil and gas, energy and petrochemicals as well as the shipping and shipbuilding sectors, transactions with the Central Bank of Iran and several other financial institutions and insurance and reinsurance services," noted Perrin.

The expert believes that the first batch of sanctions is significant of course but the second one will be much more difficult to deal with because it includes oil and gas.

"Iran can live with the first part, which does not mean it will not suffer from it. It will also suffer before 4 November because several companies will stop trading with Iran and investing in Iran well before this date," said Perrin.

He recalled that since the decision by President Donald Trump on 8 May to reestablish all the US sanctions which were in force before January 2016 the degree of political risk related to Iran has been greatly reevaluated by companies, investors and financial institutions and there is a strong deterrent impact since this announcement.

"The dramatic fall in the value of the Iranian rial and withdrawal decisions already taken or which will be confirmed soon by several companies are the most visible signs of the deterioration of the economic situation," said the expert.

He went on to add that another problem for Iran and its present economic partners is the strong willingness of the Trump administration to apply very strictly the sanctions which have just been reestablished or will be reestablished in the near future.

"Trump administration repeatedly said that it would not grant waivers and that its goal was zero trade with Iran and zero investment in Iran. The real result will be different of course but it is obvious that the negative impacts for Iran will be very strong and the Iranian government is not really able to counter this impact," said Perrin.

The expert pointed out that the European Union (EU) has clearly stated its opposition to the reestablishment of US extraterritorial sanctions and there is a political dialogue with Iran in order to find ways and means to go on trading with Iran and investing in Iran.

"That being said it has so far failed to deliver any tangible results. At the end of the day private actors are trading with Iran and investing in Iran, not governments or the European Commission. For them, between the threat of US sanctions and promises from the EU, there is no doubt. Companies and investors are already voting with their feet and it is only the beginning of the story," he concluded.

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Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

Production and exports of wheat are expected to decline in Kazakhstan in 2018-2019, according to the report of the Global Agricultural Information Network (GAIN) and the US Department of Agriculture.

The production of wheat in Kazakhstan during the reporting period is expected to reach 14 million tons, which is about 800,000 tons less than in 2017-2018.

Moreover, this year wheat crops have greatly decreased in Kazakhstan not only due to the ongoing state policy on crop diversification, but also due to cold spring.

Export of wheat in 2018-2019 is projected at the level of eight million tons, the report said.

The main buyers of Kazakhstans wheat are Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. As of March 2018, about 78 percent of the total exports accounted for these two countries.

The main buyers of durum wheat are Italy (51 percent), Russia  25 percent, Turkey - eight percent and Tunisia - five percent.

Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Fikret Dolukhanov  Trend:

Uzbekistan may establish import of machinery and electronic equipment from China within a program on development of family entrepreneurship, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) of Uzbekistan stated.

Signing of a corresponding agreement is planned within the visit of an Uzbek delegation, headed by the vice-chairman of the CCI, to Beijing on Aug. 7.

The purpose of the visit is to consult and share experience in development of family entrepreneurship, conduct negotiations with representatives of the Chinese business community, as well as to study projects on expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation.

The Uzbek delegation will also hold a meeting with Chinas Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME) and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), as well as visit enterprises producing equipment for the agriculture, food and textile sectors.

In 1H2018, China took the second place in the list of the main foreign trade partners of Uzbekistan (with a small difference from Russia): trade turnover between the countries amounted to $2.81 billion, which is 15.9 percent of the total foreign trade turnover of Uzbekistan.

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Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

Kazakhstan's Kaz-Ir AGRO LLP made the first shipment of safflower oil to Japan in the volume of 37.3 tons, Kaz-Ir AGRO said.

Kaz-Ir AGRO is the first company in the history of Kazakhstan supplying food products to Japan, specializing in growing safflower, as well as producing unrefined safflower oil of cold pressing.

In June Kazakhstans exporter concluded the contract for safflower oil export to Japan.

The cooperation with Japan for Kaz-Ir AGRO is an opportunity to enter a big consumer market. Presently, the company is holding negotiations on the conclusion of an annual contract for the supply of safflower oil to the Netherlands.

The company exported 400 tons of products in January-June 2018. Safflower oil is exported to China, Czech Republic, Japan, Russia and Uzbekistan.

(348.8 KTZ = $1 on Aug. 7)

Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Kenyan television personality Ciru Muriuki has revealed her next gig days after announcing her exit from MediaMax-owned TV station K24.

The former K24 Alfajiri host has joined the giant media house BBC. While making the announcement on social media, Ciru Muriuki shared a picture taken at her new home and wrote: New beginnings. ??

In her Instastories, Ciru revealed that she was beyond thrilled to be joining BBC.

While making her K24 exit after only 8 months, Ms Muriuki described the next phase of her career as a dream come true.

Im super excited about the next phase of my career. Dreams do come true, she wrote.

Before joining K24, Muriuki used to be a panelist on NTVs The Trend during Larry Madowos tenure. She will now be reunited as colleagues with Larry, who was appointed to head the BBC Africa Business desk in April.

Ciru Muriuki also joins her former colleague at K24, news anchor Ian Wafula, who announced his switch last week, thanking Larry Madowo for challenging him to get out of his comfort zone.
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Aug. 7

By Huseyn Hasanov Trend:

During a government meeting President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov stressed the importance of resolving the tasks of the fuel and energy complex, including those related to attracting investments for the development of the complex, Neutral Turkmenistan newspaper wrote.

President Berdimuhamedov gave a number of concrete instructions pointing to the need of taking comprehensive measures to successfully solve the tasks outlined in "Program for the Development of the Oil and Gas Industry of Turkmenistan until 2030", as well as the preparation of new pipeline construction projects, given the growing demand for natural gas in other countries.

According to the BP report, Turkmenistan with its natural gas reserves ranks fourth in the world and presently, the country exports gas to China and Iran. At the same time, Russia, a traditional buyer, completely stopped to buy Turkmen gas in 2016.

Construction of the Turkmen section of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India gas pipeline (TAPI) was launched in December 2015, while the Afghan section - in February 2018.

Turkmen gas is expected to be supplied through TAPI during 2019. The total length of the pipeline with a capacity of 33 billion cubic meters of gas per year will be 1,840 kilometers reaching the settlement of Fazilka on the border with India.

Being the leader of the international consortium TAPI Pipeline Company Limited, "Turkmengas" - having a controlling stake - performs the functions of the main financier and manager of the project. The consortium also includes the Afghan Gas Corporation, Pakistans Inter State Gas Systems (Private) Limited Company and Indias GAIL Company.

Turkmenistan continues to work on the Trans-Caspian gas pipeline construction project, chairman of the Turkmengas state concern Myrat Archayev said at the international gas congress in Avaza in May 2018.

The East-West internal pipeline in Turkmenistan, designed for export supplies, has already been constructed. Negotiations on the supply of Turkmen gas to Europe have been held since 2011.

The Southern Gas Corridor, including the Trans-Caspian project, remains a priority for the EU. Energy ministers of Azerbaijan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Vice-President of the European Commission for the Energy Union Maros Sefcovic signed the Ashgabat Declaration on Energy in May 2015.

The project of laying a 300-kilometer gas pipeline along the bottom of the Caspian Sea to the shores of Azerbaijan is optimal for the supply of Turkmen resources to the European market. Then, the Turkmen gas may be supplied to Turkey, which borders European countries.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Rufiz Hafizoglu  Trend:

In June 2018, export of Turkeys goods decreased by 1.3 percent compared to the same month of 2017, according to the report of the Turkish Statistical Institute.

According to the report, in June 2018 export of Turkeys goods amounted to $12.9 billion.

"In June 2018, Turkey's imports also decreased by 3.8 percent compared to the same month of 2017 and amounted to $18.4 billion," the report said.

According to the report, Turkey exported goods worth $1.308 billion to Germany, goods worth $882 million to UK, goods worth $815 million to Italy in June.

China ranks first in the list of countries from which Turkey imports goods.

"In June 2018, Turkey imported goods worth $1.838 billion from China, goods worth $1.794 billion from Russia and goods worth $1.793 billion from Germany," the report said.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Aug. 7

By Huseyn Hasanov  Trend:

Caspian Environmental Service CaspEcoControl in Turkmenistan is inspecting activities of foreign and domestic companies engaged in sea and land transportation, production and transportation of energy resources, geophysical and geological surveys, the State Committee for Environmental Protection and Land Resources of Turkmenistan said in a statement Aug. 7.

CaspEcoControl is monitoring the environment, surface seawater and bottom sediments, groundwater of coastline, atmospheric air, the message says. It is analyzing the hydro-chemical regime in the sea at the stations located in Turkmenbashi Bay, Kiyanly Bay, Garabogaz and Avaza.

"The content of various impurities in the sea water is within acceptable limits, taking into account seasonal fluctuations and other parameters, the hydro-chemical balance of the water is stable and safe, which testifies to the environmental well-being of the Turkmen coast of the Caspian Sea," the message says.

Turkmenistan, together with the Caspian countries, has participated in the implementation of the Caspian environmental program since 1998. The UN Framework Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea has also been ratified by Turkmenistan. Also, environmental insurance has been introduced, the Oil Spill Prevention and National Response Plan is being implemented in the country.

Petronas, Dragon Oil, Buried Hill, RWE Dea AG, ITERA and Eni have been involved in the development of the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea. Negotiations with companies in Europe, the US and the Persian Gulf are continuing. In November 2017, French company Total announced that it was ready to make investments in Turkmenistan.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Fikret Dolukhanov  Trend:

Uzbek oil and gas company Uzbekneftegaz officially denied rumors concerning free giveaway of 200 liters of gasoline to all citizens of the country dedicated to the company's 25th anniversary.

A message was spread in various social networks and messengers, alleging that Uzbekneftegaz is planning to give 200 liters of gasoline free of charge in connection with the companys 25th anniversary. The message included a special link to the coupon, for which it is asked to fill out a questionnaire of six questions, and then share the news with friends, the oil and gas company said in its statement.

Uzbekneftegaz officially denies the information and asks all citizens to remain vigilant when visiting unverified sites.

All confirmed information about the activities of the joint-stock company and current news are published on the company's official website.

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Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Leman Zeynalova  Trend:

The temporary ban on import of gasoline by railway from Russia to Kazakhstan will come into force by August 10, 2018, the Kazakh media cited Deputy Energy Minister Bolat Akchulakov as saying Aug. 7.

Akchulakov added that the introduction of a ban on the import of Russian gasoline is connected with overabundance of AI-92 gasoline in Kazakhstan after the completion of modernization of oil refineries.

Presently, the country has huge reserves of gasoline - more than 300,000 tons, which is almost a 30-day reserve of gasoline, he said.

Akchulakov added that the mechanism for introducing a ban on the import of gasoline is stipulated by a bilateral agreement between Kazakhstan and Russia within the Eurasian Economic Union.

The ban is introduced temporarily for three months after which, depending on the situation on the market, it can be canceled or prolonged.

At the same time, Astana does not intend to completely abandon the possibility of supply from Russia. There is a possibility of duty-free import of high-octane oil products.

Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 3

By Fikret Dolukhanov  Trend:

The American IT company EPAM Systems and the Uzbek Mirzo Ulugbek Innovation Center (MUIC) may implement joint projects in IT industry of Uzbekistan, a source in the American company told Trend.

According to the company representative, the sides are also willing to cooperate in creation of conditions for advanced training of IT professionals in Uzbekistan and sharing advanced international experience in conducting IT business.

The source, however, noted that the process is in early stage yet and only explanatory meetings were held.

It was earlier reported that Minister for Development of Information Technologies and Communications of Uzbekistan Azim Akhmedkhadjaev met with EPAM Systems CEO and President Arkadiy Dobkin, who arrived in Uzbekistan to get acquainted with the potential of the countrys IT industry.

Dobkin also visited the MUIC, where the sides discussed prospects for establishment of cooperation.

EPAM Systems, also known as EPAM, is a global provider of software engineering and IT consulting services headquartered in Newtown, Pennsylvania, US. The company was founded in 1993 and currently has software development centers and branch offices in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia with over 25,000 employees worldwide.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @FDolukhanov
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Fikret Dolukhanov  Trend:

The Urgench international airport will open for domestic flights from Aug. 8, Uzbekistan Airways stated.

Flights to Moscow and St. Petersburg will be resumed from Aug. 10.

Farhod Ermanov, head of the Khorezm region administration, earlier wrote on his Facebook page that the Urgench international airport in Uzbekistan will be reopened from Aug. 10.

The Urgench international airport has been closed since July 16 for technical reasons and temperature regime.

According to the information, flights to the Urgench airport were transferred to the international airports of Nukus and Bukhara.

The national air carrier has apologized to passengers for inconvenience.

The Urgench international airport is located in the namesake city, the center of Khorezm region, in the west of Uzbekistan. In 2006, the airport building was commissioned with a capacity of 300 passengers per hour.

The Urgench airport runs daily flights to Tashkent. Also, regular flights to Moscow, St. Petersburg, Mineralnye Vody, charter flights to other cities are being carried out.

On July 11, a new passenger terminal with a capacity of 400 passengers per hour was put into operation at the Nukus international airport.

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Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

Trend:

A trade and economic mission, organized by the Foreign Trade Chamber of Kazakhstan will be held from 9 to 12 August in Dushanbe, Kazinform reported citing the Chamber.

The Foreign Trade Chamber of Kazakhstan invites potential exporters to participate in the event. Already 20 large commodity producers have confirmed their participation in the mission. Among them are Amitech Astana, Aqua Alliance, IT & M, Mega SMART, Nedex Almaty, Aktyubinsk Rail Plant and Kentau Transformer Plant, Tsesna-Astyk LLP and others.

The purpose of the mission is to promote the export of processed Kazakh products and services to the Tajik market.

"It is necessary to make Kazakh products and services easily recognizable, distinct from similar products of other manufacturers," the message reads.

The Tajik side will be represented by the Ministries of Transport, Economic Development, Finance, Industry and Energy, as well as by leasing and private transport companies, trade networks and other firms.

In the future, the Foreign Trade Chamber will continue to represent the interests of Kazakhstan's business in the foreign economic sphere.
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Aug. 7

By Huseyn Hasanov  Trend:

Turkmenistan is preparing for the chairmanship in the CIS in 2019, the countrys government said in a statement Aug. 7.

The chairmanship will be transferred from Tajikistan to Turkmenistan during a regular meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of State on Sept. 28 in Dushanbe.

Turkmenistan will promote the development of constructive multi-vector partnership in the CIS, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said in a message.

Cooperation within the Commonwealth has been and remains one of the priorities of the foreign policy of Turkmenistan, the head of state said. Turkmenistan had already chaired the CIS in 2012 and held about 30 events in this regard.
Baku, Azerbaijan, August 7

Trend:

Iraq has lifted a ban on exports of five agricultural products from the Islamic Republic of Iran, a report said.

Iraqs Agricultural Ministry issued a statement on Tuesday, lifting restrictions on the import of garlic, potato, tomato, watermelon and lemon, IRNA news agency reported.

The ministry had banned the import of the agricultural products since 2015. It removed the ban after consultations and meeting with Iraqi and Iranian officials.

The average value of Irans exports to Iraq is the highest among those dispatched to other destinations.

According to Nasser Behzad, Irans commercial attache to Iraq, the average value of Irans exported commodities to Iraq during the first four months of the current fiscal year (March 21-July 22) stood at $527 per ton, which is 1.2 times higher compared to the average value of Irans exports elsewhere.

The average value of Irans exports to China and the UAE, the Islamic Republics first and second export destinations during the period under review stood at $336 and $456 respectively.
COTU boss Francis Atwoli has dismissed reports that he is a homewrecker who snatched another mans wife.

Speaking during the International Labour Organization (ILO) workshop in Kisumu on Monday, Atwoli termed the allegations as madness.

Somebody has been trying to tarnish my name on social media by claiming that I took his wife. That is madness.

He was responding to a blog which claimed that he was involved in an affair with a married television anchor.

One thing I cannot do in my life is to have an affair with somebodys wife. My late father warned me never to fool around with someones wife, he said.

Being a polygamous man, Atwoli noted that he married his wives after serious investigations on their character.

Of my several wives, I asked their parents if they were single before I married them, he said, adding that he married his youngest wife legally after getting consent from her parents.

Atwoli said Francis Wangara, a long-serving workmate, helped in arrangements to get the girl.

He also encouraged men interested in marrying his daughters to consult him first.

Im willing to give any man, irrespective of age, as long as they are in love. Let them pay dowry, and we bless them to start their lives, Atwoli said.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

By Matanat Nasibova - Trend:

After serious attacks by Armenian leadership against the CSTO, a statement by the Russian side is not enough, well-known Russian expert, publicist and public figure Dmitry Verkhoturov told Trend commenting on the recent events in Armenia directed against Russian policy, as well as the recent statement of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

"I think it is time to raise the question whether Armenia is a reliable ally or not," Verkhoturov said.

The Russian minister made a harsh statement against Yerevan, noting that the events in Armenia (the arrest of former President Robert Kocharian and the criminal prosecution of CSTO Secretary General Yuri Khachaturov) are contrary to the statements of the new leadership about refusing to pursue its political predecessors.

In the Russian expert's opinion, the immediate cause of Kocharyan's and others' arrest is the struggle for power or more precisely, struggle to strengthen power in Yerevan.

"Pashinyan is eliminating all political competitors who could challenge him in the near future. This coincided with the fact that the arrested politicians have a pro-Russian orientation, and undoubtedly the Armenian prime minister's actions are directed against Russia. Criminal prosecution of the current head of the CSTO is meant to undermine the organization and paralyze its leadership. This step is clearly unfriendly, to say the least. If such incidents occur in peacetime, then what can be expected from 'our ally' in a more difficult situation?", Verkhoturov said.

"Pashinyan thinks he has put the CSTO in a difficult situation, and this incident should become a serious signal for Moscow," he added.
China should better coordinate its economic policies and regulations to boost lending to small firms, a central bank adviser said in remarks published on Tuesday, as the government seeks to prop up growth amid rising trade tensions, Reuters reports.

An escalating trade dispute with the United States, rising corporate borrowing costs and steep declines in Chinese stocks and the yuan have raised concerns that the worlds second-largest economy could face a steeper slowdown than had been expected just a few months ago.

The main focus will be on strengthening the overall coordination of policies, Ma Jun, a policy adviser to the Peoples Bank of China (PBOC), told a financial news outlet affiliated with Xinhua News Agency.

The cabinets Financial Stability and Development Commission (FSDC), which is headed by Vice Premier Liu He, should coordinate fiscal, monetary policies, Macro Prudential Assessment(MPA) and micro-level regulations, Ma said.

Chinas leaders have pledged to make fiscal policy more active, following a debate among researchers from the central bank and finance ministry on whether fiscal policy should be used more actively to spur growth.

Chinas small and private firms face increased financing difficulties as banks grow more concerned about credit quality, Ma said. Tighter official scrutiny of local government investment projects has also reduced their demand for loans.

The PBOC has been pumping out more cash by cutting banks reserve requirement ratios (RRR) this year, but it has long struggled to channel credit to small firms, which are vital for economic growth and job creation, analysts said. Larger state firms, meanwhile, have traditionally had much easier and cheaper access to credit.

A central bank adviser said last week China should limit the credit impact of its multi-year campaign to reduce risks in the financial system, voicing concern that the tightening may have gone too far.

Ma also said the central bank should further improve its targeted RRR cuts and the MPA mechanism to better serve smaller firms.

The MPAs are quarterly health checks of financial institutions to determine their risk exposure, and reporting requirements have been getting progressively tougher.

In the long term, the PBOC bank should adopt a new benchmark policy rate as the intermediate policy target to replace the existing bank lending and deposit rates to help improve its policy mechanism, Ma added.

Chinas new bank loans hit a five-month high in June, but annual growth in outstanding total social financing slowed to 9.8 percent, the slowest on record, while broad M2 money supply growth also hit a record low of 8 percent, indicating the regulatory tightening is having an impact.
China may have to start buying U.S. soybeans again in coming weeks despite the trade war between the two countries as other regions cannot supply enough soybeans to meet Chinas needs, Hamburg-based oilseeds analysts Oil World said on Tuesday, Reuters reports.

In July, China imposed import tariffs on a list of U.S. goods, including soybeans, as part of the trade dispute with the United States. China is the worlds largest soybean importer and has been seeking alternative supplies, especially in South America, where supplies available for export are down.

China has to resume purchases of U.S. soybeans, Oil World said in its latest newsletter. The South American supply shortage will make it necessary for China, in our opinion, to import 15 million tonnes of U.S. soybeans in October 2018/March 2019, even if the current trade war is not resolved.

Chinese purchases of U.S. soybeans could re-start in coming weeks, Oil World added.

Soybeans, crushed to make cooking oil and the protein-rich animal feed ingredient soymeal, were the biggest U.S. agriculture export to China last year at a value of $12.3 billion, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Oil World said with South American export supplies expected to be down sizeably from a year earlier in the next six months, China will face very tight domestic soybean supplies unless it resumes large-scale purchases of U.S. soybeans.

There is a risk that China will have to cut back its livestock production, implying higher prices on the domestic market, it said.

China is also likely to raise imports of processed soymeal as an alternative to soybeans for crushing, it said. Ironically this could mean China could still end up with U.S. soybeans that have been processed in Argentina.

The biggest increase is likely to be seen in soymeal exports from Argentina to China, it said. If China begins purchasing Argentine soymeal, a lack of soybean supplies in Argentina is likely to raise Argentine imports of U.S. soybeans.
A tourism plane crash on Monday had killed three people, including a minor, in Mazoires, central France, Xinhua reported.

The plane, which took off from Issoudun airfield en route to Aveyron, southwest France fell down at around 12:30 a.m. local time (1030 GMT), the newspaper La Montagne said in its report.

The three passengers on board, a man and two women, were all killed in the crash, it added.

It's unknown yet whether the crash was caused by the pilot's fault or the plane's mechanic problems.

An investigation is underway to identify the real cause of the incident.
Spain will host a 500-million U.S. dollar development and testing center of hyperloop, a new transport system based on a train car that levitates through tubes by magnetic fields, Xinhua reports.

It can reach up to 1,200 kilometers per hour, according to an agreement signed by the government and the American company Virgin Hyperloop One.

"It will make Spain a world benchmark for the new hyperloop transport system by setting up a testing and development center for the advanced technology. The subsequent implementation of an innovation ecosystem will attract multinational and Spanish companies," the Administrator of Railway Infrastructures (ADIF) said in a press release Tuesday.

After months of analysis of the viability of the project, Virgin Hyperloop One chose Spain as the international center for the development and manufacture of commercial prototypes due to Spain's unique experience in infrastructure engineering and technology, the availability of highly qualified talent and the country's leadership in high-speed transport.

Thanks to this agreement, Spain will develop, test and validate the components of this new system, subsequently achieving its certification according to European regulations.

The facilities will be installed in a government experimental building in Bobadilla, Malaga. More than 250 people will be employed and the center will have a value of approximately 500 million dollars.

"The region will have the high-tech capabilities inherent in the Hyperloop One system, such as material innovation, production of magnetic levitation systems, tunnel safety devices, advanced techniques in electronics and telecommunications, complex transport operations processes in demand, and new telematics applications between infrastructure and vehicles," said ADIF.

According to the entity in charge of the railway field in Spain, the Virgin Hyperloop One transportation system, based on the original idea of Elon Musk for Tesla, will change the way of traveling. It will improve cargo flows and logistics on demand, with great socioeconomic benefits, offering a network system that connects remote cities and reducing travel times from one hour to minutes.

"People and goods will move by vehicles that are gradually accelerated by electric propulsion in low-pressure tubes. The vehicles float on the track with magnetic levitation and glide at speeds similar to the plane due to the ultra-low aerodynamic drag. It is completely autonomous and eliminates impacts caused to human errors," said ADIF.
Elbit Systems Ltd. has been awarded a contract worth approximately $85 million by the Israeli Ministry of Defense to supply Electronic Warfare (EW) suites for the Israel Navy Sa'ar 6-class corvettes that will be tasked with the protection of Israel's Exclusive Economic Zone. The contract will be performed over a 10-year period, Globes reports.

The first of four Saar 6 ships is due to be delivered from Germany by the end of this year, with the remaining three due for delivery by 2021. Elbit Systems says that the EW systems to be supplied are combat proven and include digital receivers, signal processing technologies and analysis tools that are all of an open system architecture, thus enabling effective operational capabilities while maintain flexibility to cope with both current and future threats. The latest configurations of these technologies were developed in close cooperation with the Ministry of Defense Administration for the Development of Weapons and Technological Infrastructure (Maf'at) and with the Israel Navy, and have been recently declared operational after successfully completing intensive sea trials.

This award follows previous Elbit Systems contract awards to equip all the Israel Navy surface vessels with the companys advanced EW technologies.

Edgar Maimon, executive vice president and general manager of Elbit Systems EW and SIGINT - Elisra, said, We are proud to continue to be the EW house of the Israeli Navy and to have been awarded this contract to equip the new corvettes with the sophisticated EW capabilities necessary to perform a variety of complex missions while maintaining maximal level of force protection. The increasing demand for our EW solutions is a clear indication for the growing operational importance of advanced and combat proven EW capabilities in all domains of operational engagement - maritime, land and air.
The modernization of the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) has seen "very important developments," though much remains to be done, Mexican Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo said on Monday, Xinhua reported.

NAFTA partners Mexico, Canada and the United States are still at odds over many issues, Guajardo, who heads Mexico's negotiating team, told reporters on the sidelines of an academic event.

One of those issues is a proposal by the United States to tighten the rules of origin in the automobile sector, a move both Canada and Mexico have opposed.

However, Mexico has made a counter proposal and the U.S. has modified its original demands, so negotiators meeting in Washington over the past two weeks have been looking at both of those proposals, said Guajardo.

"In two weeks there have been very important developments in balancing out several topics of interest on the table in regard to Mexico and the United States, from a trade perspective," Guajardo said.

"The thing is that there are many topics on the table," said Guajardo, who added he plans to travel to Washington this week to check on the progress of the talks.

"There are automotive rules of origin, there are rules in the fiber optics sector, there are rules in steel, and we are reviewing the whole package of regulations," said Guajardo.

NAFTA was subjected to renegotiation in August 2017 on the urging of U.S. President Donald Trump, who believes the original trade agreement harms U.S. industry and jobs.

Guajardo was at Mexico's prestigious Colegio de Mexico to inaugurate a new postgraduate degree in international trade negotiation.
The winner of Mexico's presidential election Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said presumably referring to US President Donald Trump's plan to build a border wall that Mexico will not be threatened under his administration, Sputnik reported.

"Our goal is to make Mexico a powerful country Nobody will threaten us that they will close or militarize the border, or build a wall," Obrador said at a meeting with engineers.

Lopez Obrador is expected to take office on December 1.

Trump has repeatedly pledged to build a wall on US-Mexico border in order to stop illegal migration, as well as human and drugs trafficking. Building a border wall was one of Trump's key promises throughout his presidential campaign.

Previous week, Donald Trump said at a meeting with his supporters in the city of Tampa, Florida that the construction of the wall had already started.
Hurricane John formed off of Mexico's Pacific coast on Monday, but the storm was projected to move parallel to the coast before wheeling off into the Pacific Ocean later this week, the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) said, Reuters reported.

John packed maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour (120 km per hour) and was expected to strengthen into a major hurricane by late Tuesday or early Wednesday, the Miami-based NHC said.

There are currently no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

John was located about 320 miles (510 km) southwest of Cabo Corrientes, Mexico, and 435 miles (700 km) south of the southern tip of Baja California as of 0300 GMT. It was moving toward the northwest at 8 mph (13 kph).

"Swells generated by John are expected to begin affecting the coasts of southwestern Mexico and the southern portion of the Baja California peninsula during the next day or so," the NHC said.

The swells are likely to cause "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions," it added.

Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 25 miles (35 km) from the center of the storm and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 105 miles (165 km).
Iran, Iraq and Syria are planning to prepare a comprehensive plan for countering dust storms under the supervision of UN Development Program, the director of Iranian national committee in charge of fighting dust storm said on Tuesday, Irna reported.

In an exclusive interview with the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Ali Mohammad Tahmasbi Birgani said that the aim of the quadrilateral agreement was to control the foreign sources of the dust storms.

Agreements between neighboring countries can persuade them to begin operations for countering dust storms and take steps to control sources of pollution that have affected our country, Tahmasbi Birgani said.

'Since 1997, several agreements have been signed with Turkey, Iraq, Syria, Qatar and Bahrain. But as these agreements were not binding, we decided to pursue the case of dust storm in international organizations so as to guarantee the implementation of agreements by the international conventions,' the official said.

He said that the costs needed for the implementation of the agreement will be provided by all the three contracting countries.
Former legislator Joy Gwendo has pleaded guilty to three counts of fraud after reaching a plea bargain deal with the DPP Noordin Haji.

In the agreement, the former nominated Senator will pay a Kisumu Sacco Sh1.7 million, the amount of money she is alleged to have stolen from Kisumu East Cotton Growers Cooperative Sacco.

Appearing before Anti-Corruption Court Chief Magistrate Douglas Ogoti, Joy Gwendo pleaded guilty to a count of abuse of office and two others of issuing bad cheques.

Gwendo confessed that she issued a cheque of Sh300,000 to Kisumu East Cotton Growers Cooperative Society through CFC Stanbic Kivulis development initiatives account yet she knew there were insufficient funds.

She also admitted to issuing another bad cheque on the same day worth Sh950,000.

On the abuse of office accusation, Gwendo admitted that on October 23, 2016, at Chiga parish in Kisumu, she used her position as a state officer to confer herself Sh2,226,880, money which belonged to the Sacco.

Following the agreement, the DPP agreed to withdraw two counts of forgery and stealing that the Gwendo was facing. She had been accused of forging a Sh200, 000 cheque drawn from a Kenya Commercial Bank account in favour of Kivuli Development Initiative and signed by Willy Kipkorir Bett.

The Court allowed the politician to settle the contested amount in four installments.

Gwendo will be sentenced on December 7 after repaying the funds.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov plans to participate in a meeting of the top diplomats of the Caspian states scheduled to take place in Kazakhstans city of Aktau on August 11, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin told TASS on Tuesday.

"Sergey Lavrov plans to take part in a meeting of the foreign ministers of the Caspian states," he said.

The meeting will be held ahead of the Fifth Caspian summit, which will involve the leaders of Russia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Iran and Turkmenistan. The five Caspian states are expected to adopt the Convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea, which was agreed on by the five states foreign ministers at their Moscow meeting on December 4-5, 2017.

The legal status of the Caspian Sea remains the key issue discussed at the regional countries summits.

The five countries leaders held their first meeting in Turkmenistans capital of Ashgabat in 2002. The second Caspian summit was held in the Iranian capital of Tehran in 2007, while Azerbaijans capital of Baku hosted the third summit in 2010, and Russias Astrakhan hosted the fourth summit in 2014.
Baku, Azerbaijan, Aug. 7

Trend:

The Russian government has approved the draft agreements with other Caspian states on the prevention of incidents in the Caspian Sea and on the cooperation in the fight against terrorism in the region, TASS reported.

"To approve the draft agreement on the prevention of incidents in the Caspian Sea, which has been previously worked out with the Azerbaijani, Iranian, Kazakh and Turkmen parties," one of the decrees of the Cabinet of Ministers says.

The Russian Defense Ministry has been instructed to hold talks with the relevant states and sign the agreement on behalf of the Russian government.

The Russian Cabinet of Ministers also approved by another decree the draft protocol on cooperation in combating terrorism in the Caspian Sea (attached to the agreement on cooperation on security in the Caspian Sea, dated November 18, 2010), which was previously worked out with other Caspian countries.

The 5th Caspian Summit will be held in Aktau on August 12. The convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea should be the main final document of the summit.
KYODO NEWS - Aug 7, 2018 - 16:20 | All, World

The United States reinstated on Tuesday certain economic sanctions against Iran as a result of leaving the 2015 nuclear accord, with President Donald Trump calling for a more comprehensive deal to bring an end to Tehran's nuclear program.

The first round of reimposed sanctions, signed by Trump on Monday, covers Iran's transactions in the auto sector, trade in coal, aluminum and precious metals, and cash dealings involving U.S. dollars. Businesses of third-party countries, including Japan, can be penalized for not complying with the sanctions.

"The United States is fully committed to enforcing all of our sanctions, and we will work closely with nations conducting business with Iran to ensure complete compliance. Individuals or entities that fail to wind down activities with Iran risk severe consequences," Trump said in a statement issued Monday.

The Trump administration is set to reimpose other sanctions in November targeting the oil sector, a chief support of Iran's economy. Sanctions on Iranian oil imports are feared to damage Japan as the country depends on Iran for about 5 percent of its oil imports.

Industry officials said Japan foresees no problem in importing oil in a stable manner as it has other suppliers, including Saudi Arabia.

But the price of gasoline and of a range of other oil products could go up in Japan if it starts to import more crude from other countries, one official said. And those price increases in turn could dampen consumption spending and overall business activity.

The U.S. is reimposing sanctions after Trump in May announced the U.S. withdrawal from a multilateral nuclear accord under which Iran agreed to curb its nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.

The accord was signed by Tehran and six major powers -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States under Trump's Democratic predecessor, Barack Obama.

Trump called the accord "a horrible, one-sided deal" that "failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb."

But he also said that, while the United States will "continue applying maximum economic pressure" on the Iranian government, Washington will "remain open to reaching a more comprehensive deal that addresses the full range of the regime's malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism."

Trump said last week he is willing to meet Iranian leaders without preconditions to discuss strained bilateral ties, telling a news conference in Washington, "If they want to meet, I'll meet. Anytime they want."

On Monday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani reacted sharply to the latest U.S. action, saying in a TV interview that Washington should stop threatening Tehran and revoke all sanctions if Trump is serious about a dialogue.

"If you're an enemy and you stab the other person with a knife, and then you say you want negotiations, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife," Al Jazeera News quoted Rouhani as saying.

According to the U.S. government, nearly 100 companies in the financial, energy and other sectors have expressed intentions to leave the Iranian market in line with the U.S. sanctions.

In Tokyo, Economy, Trade, and Industry Minister Hiroshige Seko said the government will continue consultations with the United States so that the sanctions do not have a negative impact on Japanese companies.

Seko also told a press conference that the government "will carefully analyze more than ever what kind of impact (the sanctions) would have on (oil prices)."
By Leo Bosner, KYODO NEWS - Aug 7, 2018 - 15:17 | Urgent, All

When the Hanshin Earthquake struck Kobe in 1995, professional responders as well as volunteers worked courageously to rescue the survivors, but Japan lacked a comprehensive system for disaster management, resulting in numerous delays and problems in the response.

Following this catastrophic event, the Japanese government began sending emissaries to the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) where I worked in Washington D.C., looking for ideas on how to strengthen Japan's disaster response.

For years after that, Japanese authorities would continue to study the idea of establishing a FEMA-like agency in Japan, but they never took action to do so.

When eastern Japan was shaken by a violent earthquake and tsunami on March 11, 2011, once again the professional responders and the volunteers worked tirelessly to assist the survivors, but their efforts were hampered by an inefficient response system, and many people in the disaster area suffered needlessly.

For example:

-- Valuable commodities such as food and medicine were often delivered to locations where they were not needed, while survivors at other locations suffered shortages.

-- Donations of badly needed items such as clothing, tools, and canned food were turned away because the government had no system for receiving and managing donations.

-- Some shelters were poorly managed, and some were not managed at all.

-- Doctors treating patients in the disaster area often could not locate anyone at the health ministry in Tokyo to answer their questions.

-- Hospitals in the disaster area lacked a system for obtaining needed supplies.

-- Medical teams dispatched to the area lost contact with their bases, leaving them with no clear idea of where they were needed most.

-- Fire departments from around the country arrived to help, but had no standard management system to draw upon, and so spent precious time developing a plan of action in the middle of the disaster response.

And afterward, some again suggested creating a Japan FEMA.

What's so special about FEMA?

There is nothing magical about FEMA. It's simply a government agency, and like any government agency, when it is well-led and has sufficient staff and budget, it does well; when poorly led, and lacks staff and budget, it does poorly.

This in turn depends on the U.S. president, who gets to appoint the FEMA director and who has a large say in FEMA's staffing and budget.

Thus, under Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama we saw excellent responses by FEMA to the Northridge Earthquake (1994), the Oklahoma City Bombing (1995) and Hurricane Sandy (2012).

In contrast, under Presidents George H. W. Bush, George W. Bush, and Donald Trump, we saw not-so-excellent responses to Hurricane Andrew in Florida (1992), Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans (2005), and Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico (2017).

Clearly, FEMA's success or failure largely depends on the leadership at the top, but I believe that the FEMA concept itself is a good one: Establish a permanent, full-time government agency to lead the way for disaster management.

Japan does have its Cabinet Office for Disaster Management, but the office is too small for the job, and worse, it suffers from the same "two years and out" system of the Japanese government: after two years in a particular office or agency, staff rotate away to new assignments.

This means that staff of this office have very little time to gain the kind of disaster experience that my colleagues and I were able to gain in our many years at FEMA.

It also means that, at every Japanese disaster, many of the people involved are new to the job, and the prime minister and his staff must try to invent the disaster response on the spot.

This type of ad hoc effort may appear heroic, but it is not a very efficient way of doing things.

A "formula" for a successful FEMA-type agency may be difficult to define, and Japan must follow its own cultural and political path to building a strong emergency management capability.

But based on my nearly 29 years at FEMA, I believe that the following factors would be key to the success of a modern emergency management agency in any country, including Japan:

1. A lead agency with competent leadership, well-trained long-term staff, a clearly-defined mission, enabling legislation, an adequate budget, and visible proximity and direct access to the government's chief executive.

2. Partnership and cooperation among national government agencies, state and local governments, the private sector, the nonprofit sector, the academic sector, private citizens, and international partners.

3. Input from key persons and organizations in all relevant fields such as public health, medicine, fire service, law enforcement, environmental protection, social welfare, construction, and others.

4. A comprehensive approach that takes the "all-hazard" approach, whereby plans are categorized not by type of disaster but by mechanism of the disaster response such as transportation, communications, and public works and engineering. FEMA commended 15 mechanisms including the three.

Japan is prone to disasters, and the threat is too important to leave to ad hoc responses that are created on the spot.

I haven't yet seen definitive reports of the response to the recent floods in western Japan, but if problems surface as they did in 1995 and 2011, or if the same problems threaten to occur in future disasters, maybe it's time for the Japanese government to stop talking about establishing an agency like FEMA in Japan and actually take some action.

(Leo Bosner is a retired disaster specialist of the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of the author.)

(Leo Bosner)
KYODO NEWS - Aug 7, 2018 - 08:21 | All, World

North Korea believes there is a "strong possibility" of a second summit between the country's leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump, CNN reported, quoting an official with close knowledge of Pyongyang's position on the matter.

The official pointed to a recent exchange of letters between Trump and Kim as a positive sign, adding that although the date and location of the summit have yet to be fixed, it would take place "sometime later this year."

The news came amid mounting skepticism over North Korea's intention to take concrete measures toward denuclearization as Kim promised Trump at a historic summit in Singapore in June, where the "complete" denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula was offered in return for security guarantees from the United States.

Over the weekend, North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho criticized the United States for maintaining economic sanctions and not responding to Pyongyang's urging to declare an end to the Korean War.

The official said his latest statements were a "negotiating tactic to put pressure" on the Trump administration ahead of U.S. midterm elections, according to CNN.
KYODO NEWS - Aug 7, 2018 - 11:12 | All, World

Japanese Crown Prince Naruhito will make a nine-day trip to France from Sept. 7 to commemorate 160 years of diplomatic ties, the government said Tuesday.

Initial plans by the Imperial Household Agency for Crown Princess Masako to accompany her husband at the invitation of France were shelved due to a scheduling conflict.

The crown princess, who has long battled a stress-related illness, has not accompanied her husband overseas since July 2015 when they visited the South Pacific kingdom of Tonga for a coronation event.

During his visit through Sept. 15, the crown prince will attend the Japonismes 2018 event, a Japan-themed cultural event that started in July in Paris and other cities, and watch a Kabuki performance by a group including actor Nakamura Shido.

The crown prince will also have the chance to take part in lighting up the Eiffel Tower.

The crown prince will visit a textile museum in Lyon as well as a winery and advanced science research facility in other locations.

While the crown prince visited France when he was studying at Britain's Oxford University, it will be his first official visit to the country. Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko made an official trip to France in 1994.
'There is no need to panic,' Minister for Water Resources Roshy Augustine said ahead of opening of shutters in Mullaperiyar Dam on Friday.
Robert Mwambura Kivutha, the son of Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana, over the weekend tied the knot with the love of his life, Alice Lilly Muthoni Mbui in Nairobi.

Mwambura and Muthoni exchanged their vows Saturday at the Karen Community Church.

The ceremony was graced by top politicians including the grooms father Prof. Kivutha Kibwana, Machakos Governor Dr Alfred Mutua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, among others.

While congratulating the newlyweds, Governor Mutua revealed that the lovebirds met while working for the Machakos County Government.

I congratulate the new couple and wish them all the best. I am glad they met while working in my Government of Machakos. God bless you sana, said the Maendeleo Chap Chap leader.

The invite-only affair also served as wonderful catch up for Ukambani politicians, bringing together Alfred Mutua and his former boss turned foe Kalonzo Musyoka.

The Machakos County chief expressed optimism that they will work together moving forward.

We enjoyed moments of laughter as we discussed life and agreed to call each other this coming week to find time to share a cup of tea, said Mutua.
The driver of a truck that was involved in a fatal accident that claimed the lives of nine pupils has been charged in court.

Abdalla Hassan was charged in Mwingi on Monday and faced nine counts of causing deaths by dangerous driving following the accident on Saturday night.

The driver denied the charges and was released on Sh5 million bond, with two sureties of the same amount, or Sh1 million cash bail.

Mwingi principal magistrate Kibet Sambu directed the accused to return to court on August 20 when the case will be mentioned. A hearing date will also be set on this day.

Pupils of St Gabriel Mwingi Academy were traveling from a trip to Mombasa in a bus belonging to Nguutani Secondary School when their bus collided with the truck at about 11 pm. The accident happened at Kanginga area, about two kilometres from Mwingi town, with the school bus plunging into Kanginga River.

Follwing the crash, Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua has banned vehicles in the county from ferrying students after 7 pm.

Those who defy the directive will be arrested and their vehicles released only if they pay fines of not less than Sh50,000.

Mutua said a special unit of the inspectorate had been established to enforce this and other laws, which he noted are in line with Commuter Motor Vehicle Act, 2015 and the Machakos County Non-motorized Vehicles Act of 2016.
Threat dissolves the human tendency to readily accept good news over bad, according to experiments conducted both in the lab and with on-duty firefighters. The findings, published in JNeurosci, provide a potential mechanism by which levels of optimism are adapted to the relative safety or danger of the environment.

In general people tend to be overly optimistic. The opposite is true in psychiatric conditions such as depression, in which some patients place a premium on negative information. Neil Garrett, Tali Sharot, and colleagues now show that the ability to flexibly shift between these two patterns can be a healthy, adaptive response to changing environmental demands.

The researchers induced stress in a controlled laboratory experiment by telling participants they will need to give a surprise public speech. They then asked participants to estimate their likelihood of experiencing 40 different aversive events in their life, such as being involved in a car accident or becoming a victim of card fraud. Participants were then given either good news (being told that their likelihood of experiencing these events was lower than they had estimated) or bad news (that it was higher). They then asked participants to provide new estimates. The control group showed the well-known optimism bias; a tendency to take more notice of good news compared to bad news. In contrast, the stressed participants showed no such bias and became better at processing bad news. The researchers obtained similar results in a study of Colorado firefighters, who naturally experience fluctuating periods of stress as part of their job.

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Article: Updating Beliefs Under Perceived Threat

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.0716-18.2018

Corresponding authors: Neil Garrett (Princeton University, NJ, USA), ngarrett@princeton.edu and Tali Sharot (University College London, UK), t.sharot@ucl.ac.uk

About JNeurosci

JNeurosci, the Society for Neuroscience's first journal, was launched in 1981 as a means to communicate the findings of the highest quality neuroscience research to the growing field. Today, the journal remains committed to publishing cutting-edge neuroscience that will have an immediate and lasting scientific impact, while responding to authors' changing publishing needs, representing breadth of the field and diversity in authorship.

About The Society for Neuroscience

The Society for Neuroscience is the world's largest organization of scientists and physicians devoted to understanding the brain and nervous system. The nonprofit organization, founded in 1969, now has nearly 37,000 members in more than 90 countries and over 130 chapters worldwide.
URBANA, Ill. - The human genome is riddled with endogenous retroviruses - little pieces of degraded and generally harmless retrovirus DNA passed down through the generations, along with our own genetic information. Because most endogenous retroviruses have been part of our DNA for millions of years, scientists can't explain how they went from their virulent, disease-causing forms to the inert bits of "junk DNA" most of them are today. A new study published today in the journal PNAS looks to koalas for an answer.

"In humans, the youngest known endogenous retrovirus groups are around 5 million years old. That makes it very hard to tell what happened. But the koala is one of the few species known to have an ongoing invasion of the germline by a retrovirus," says Alfred Roca, one of the authors of the study and an associate professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois.

Like other viruses, retroviruses first attack from the outside. They enter the body, fuse with cells to release their contents, and insert pieces of their DNA into the genetic code of the host, hijacking the host's DNA-replicating machinery to make more copies of themselves.

But if they find their way into sperm and egg cells, retroviral genes can be passed on to the host's offspring, becoming a permanent part of the reproductive genome, also known as the germline.

Early on, new endogenous retroviruses may continue to replicate with disastrous effects for the host. But over time, the sequences stop coding for disease-causing retroviruses and instead become inert "junk DNA." Until now, scientists could only guess at why and how this happened.

"We think the pressure for external viruses is to make lots of copies of themselves and infect more individuals. But once the virus becomes part of the host germline, the pressure is going to be for it to leave the host alone because the host is needed to reproduce the sequence," Roca says. "It has to play nice or otherwise it disappears. The question is how does this process take place?"

Because the koala retrovirus is still relatively young - less than 50,000 years old - and not yet in a fixed location within the koala genome, scientists could monitor its interactions with the koala genome in real time.

Surprisingly, the koala genome is fighting fire with fire.

The researchers found that an ancient and unrelated endogenous retroviral element is inserting itself into the new retrovirus via recombination, deactivating it. Instead of coding for proteins that reassemble into an infectious retrovirus, the recombinant sequence doesn't code for anything.

"We might have found evidence for a molecular defense mechanism of hosts against new retroviral attacks, mediated by more ancient retroviral elements," says Ulrike Lober, researcher at the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research in Berlin and the study's first author.

Alex Greenwood, also of the Leibniz Institute, led the study. He adds, "The study emphasizes how little we know about the diversity and reservoirs of retroviruses among wildlife. The koala, a species not usually associated with biomedical breakthroughs, is providing key insights into a process that has shaped 8 percent of the human genome, and likely shows us what happened millions of years ago when retroviruses invaded the human germline."

Unfortunately for koalas, complete degradation of the koala retrovirus is likely to take a very, very long time - probably in the hundreds of thousands of years. In the meantime, most koalas, especially in northern Australia, will continue to suffer from retrovirus-linked cancers and immune suppression, leading to secondary diseases like chlamydia.

But while the virus-to-virus battle is being waged, there may be ways scientists can help.

"The complete koala genome has been instrumental in showing that an individual koala can have many - more than a hundred - insertions of koala retrovirus into its genome. This information will enable us to determine which strains are more dangerous and to assist with development of a koala retrovirus vaccine," says study co-author Rebecca Johnson of the Australian Museum, who led a recent effort to sequence the koala genome.

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The article, "Degradation and remobilization of endogenous retroviruses by recombination during the earliest stages of germline invasion," is published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences [DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1807598115]. Authors include Ulrike Lober, Matthew Hobbs, Anish Dayaram, Kyriakos Tsangaras, Kiersten Jones, David Alquezar-Planas, Yasuko Ishida, Joanne Meers, Jens Mayer, Claudia Quedenau, Wei Chen, Rebecca Johnson, Peter Timms, Paul Young, Alfred Roca, and Alex Greenwood.

Support for the research was provided by the Australian Museum Foundation, BioPlatforms Australia, New South Wales Environmental Trust, the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), the Morris Animal Foundation, and the Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst.
In India and other countries in Southeast Asia, curcumin is often used as a spice in cooking, particularly chicken or fish. It is known for its therapeutic effect and as a way to kill germs present in raw meet. Recently, scientists have also discovered that curcumin, a naturally occurring substance isolated from the Curcuma long plant, to be an effective agent for killing cancer cells.

"Until now, however, curcumin is what we call in pharmaceutical science as a 'false lead' - it is therapeutic, but the full effect can't be utilized because it's poorly soluble in water," noted Dipanjan Pan, an associate professor of bioengineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign who leads the Laboratory of Materials in Medicine.

"When you try to deliver a drug, it requires solubility in water, otherwise it won't flow through the bloodstream," added Santosh Misra, a post-doctoral researcher working with Pan.

Recently, however, Pan's laboratory collaborated with Peter Stang, the editor-in-chief of the Journal of American Chemical Society, and Distinguished Professor of chemistry at the University of Utah on ways to be able to render curcumin soluble, deliver it to infected tumors, and kill cancer cells. The team has created a sophisticated metallocyclic complex using platinum that has not only enabled curcumin's solubility, but whose synergy has proven 100 times more effective in treating various cancer types such as melanoma and breast cancer cells than using curcumin and platinum agents separately. They published their results in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America

"It's a combination of clever chemistry and nanoprecipitation utilizing host guest chemistry," Pan explained. "We know that a drug is going to bind to a certain 'host molecule' if the proper pocket is present. We have shown here that a pumpkin-shaped macrocyclic molecule Cucurbituril by virtue of its glycoluril monomeric linkages, that attracts curcumin, which gets bound and comes off once it gets delivered to the cell. That is the key to demonstrating the effectiveness of the therapy and in solving a long-standing problem with curcumin's insolubility."

"In order to make it available to the system, it was necessary to put curcumin in a larger complex where it can be soluble in water," Misra said. "This complex has a very unique ability to take on different forms of material -- from a spherical nanoparticle to longer elongated threads of nanometer size. In both cases, curcumin is present in the system, which what is important for to its medicinal value."

"We knew platinum is a commonly used cancer therapeutic agent in the clinic," Pan said in explaining the road to discovery. "We wanted to exploit that property as well in addition to curcumin. Our results demonstrate that curcumin works completely in sync with platinum and exert synergistic effect to show remarkable anticancer properties."

The team detailed a hierarchical approach to solubilize a hydrophobic anti-cancer drug, curcumin in water via a combination of coordination-driven self-assembly and host-guest interactions.

The team detailed a hierarchical approach to solubilize a hydrophobic anti-cancer drug, curcumin in water via a combination of coordination-driven self-assembly and host-guest interactions.

Curcumin has shown to prevent the phosphorylation of STAT3, a well-known signaling pathway that triggers the growth of cancer cells and allows them to survive, in in vivo studies. The platinum-curcumin combination kills the cells by fragmenting its DNA.

Although the researchers have only tested the method in delivering curcumin, its contribution to cancer treatment will ultimately also come from the likelihood the method will work with other drugs as well.

"In cancer therapy, one of the measures that constrains a number of the drugs is their poor solubility," Pan said. "Viability only becomes prominent when the drug becomes soluble in water. So, no matter how the drug is given, intravenously or orally, it needs to eventually be absorbed by the organs in the body."

Pan's team also hopes to prove that this method will be effective in killing cancer stem cells, in effect cancer's root system.

"More and more it is becoming obvious that cancer stem cells are responsible for all these cancers to regrow," Pan said. "Even if you are killing all the cells in the tumor, there would be a tiny population of cells with 'stemness' properties that could enable cancer cells to grow back and spread to other parts of the body. That is why even if a patient has been declared cancer free, doctors continue to monitor to see if cells regrow. However, if we can deliver therapy to cancer stem cells, we can prevent that from happening. As an ongoing research in our laboratory to find agents for stopping the growth of cancer stem cells, we will be looking into using these highly sophisticated self-assembled metallacycles for targeted therapies"

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Scientists believe the solar system was formed some 4.6 billion years ago when a cloud of gas and dust collapsed under gravity possibly triggered by cataclysmic explosion from a nearby massive star or supernova. As this cloud collapsed, it formed a spinning disk with the sun in the center.

Since then scientists have been able to establish the formation of the solar system piece by piece. Now, new research has enabled scientists from The University of New Mexico, Arizona State University and NASA's Johnson Space Center to add another piece to that puzzle with the discovery of the oldest-ever dated igneous meteorite.

The research titled, Silica-rich volcanism in the Early Solar System Dated at 4.565 Ga, was published today in Nature Communications. This research provides direct evidence that chemically evolved silica-rich crustal rocks were forming on planetsimals within the first 10 million years prior to the assembly of the terrestrial planets and helps scientists further understand the complexities of planet formation.

"The age of this meteorite is the oldest, igneous meteorite ever recorded," said Professor and Director of the Institute of Meteoritics Carl Agee. "Not only is this just an extremely unusual rock type, it's telling us that not all asteroids look the same. Some of them look almost like the crust of the Earth because they're so light colored and full of SiO2. These not only exist, but it occurred during one of the very first volcanic events to take place in the solar system."

The research started to unfold at UNM when graduate student and lead author Poorna Srinivasan, asked Agee for ideas on her Ph.D. thesis. Agee had a yet-to-be studied crustal rock that was found in a sand dune in Mauritania by a nomad that he received from a meteorite dealer. The rock was lighter in color than most meteorites and was laced with green crystals, cavities and surrounded by quench melt. He gave the sample to Srinivasan who began to study the mineralogy of the rock, Northwest Africa (NWA) 11119.

Using an electron microprobe and a CT (computed tomography) scan at UNM and Johnson Space Center facilities, Srinivasan started to examine the composition and mineralogy of the rock. Srinivasan started to note the intricacies of NWA 11119 and noted the unusual light-green fusion crust, silica mineral-rich achondrite meteorite containing information substantially widening scientific knowledge involving the range of volcanic rock compositions within the first 3.5 million years of solar system creation.

"The mineralogy of this rock is a very, very different from anything that we've worked on before," said Srinivasan. "I examined the mineralogy to understand all of the phases that comprise the meteorite. One of the main things we saw first were the large silica crystals of tridymite which is a similar to the mineral quartz. When we conducted further image analyses to quantify the tridymite, we found that the amount present was a staggering 30 percent of the total meteorite - this amount is unheard of in meteorites and is only found at these levels in certain volcanic rocks from the Earth."

Part of Srinivasan's research also involved trying to figure out through chemical and isotopic analyses what body the meteorite could be from. Utilizing oxygen isotopes done in collaboration with Dr. Karen Ziegler in UNM's Center for Stable Isotope (CSI) lab, she was able to determine that it was definitely extraterrestrial.

"Based on oxygen isotopes, we know it's from an extraterrestrial source somewhere in the solar system, but we can't actually pinpoint it to a known body that has been viewed with a telescope," said Srinivasan. "However, through the measured isotopic values, we were able to possibly link it to two other unusual meteorites (Northwest Africa 7235 and Almahata Sitta) suggesting that they all are from the same parent body - perhaps a large, geologically complex body that formed in the early solar system."

One possibility is that this parent body was disrupted through a collision with another asteroid or planetesimal and some of its ejected fragments eventually reached the Earth's orbit, falling through the atmosphere and ending up as meteorites on the ground - in the case of NWA 11119, falling in Mauritania at a yet unknown time in the past.

"The oxygen isotopes of NWA11119, NWA 7235, and Almahata Sitta are all identical, but this rock - NWA 11119 - stands out as something completely different from any of the over 40,000 meteorites that have been found on Earth," said Srinivasan.

Further, research using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was performed in the Isotope Cosmochemistry and Geochronology Laboratory (ICGL) at the Center for Meteorite Studies at Arizona State University to determine the precise formation age of the meteorite. The research confirmed that NWA 11119 is the oldest-ever igneous meteorite recorded at 4.565 billion years.

"The purpose of this research was to understand the origin and formation time of an unusually silica-rich igneous meteorite," says co-author and ASU's Center for Meteorite Studies director, Meenakshi Wadhwa. "Most other known igneous asteroidal meteorites have 'basaltic' compositions that have much lower abundances of silica - so we wanted to understand how and when this unique silica-rich meteorite formed in the crust of an asteroidal body in the early Solar System."

Most meteorites are formed through the collision of asteroids orbiting the sun in a region called the asteroid belt. Asteroids are the remains from the formation of the solar system formation some 4.6 billion years ago. The chemical composition ranges of ancient igneous meteorites, or achondrites, are key to understanding the diversity and geochemical evolution of planetary building blocks. Achondrite meteorites record the first episodes of volcanism and crust formation, the majority of which are basaltic.

"The meteorite we studied is unlike any other known meteorite," says co-author and ASU School of Earth and Space Exploration graduate student Daniel Dunlap. "It has the highest abundance of silica and the most ancient age (4.565 billion years old) of any known igneous meteorite. Meteorites like this were the precursors to planet formation and represent a critical step in the evolution of rocky bodies in our solar system."

"This research is key to how the building blocks of planets formed early in the solar system," said Agee. "When we look out of the solar system today, we see fully formed bodies, planets, asteroids, comets and so forth. Then, our curiosity always pushes us to, to ask the question, how did they form, how did the Earth form? This is basically a missing part of the puzzle that we've now found that tells us these igneous processes act like little blast furnaces that are melting rock and processing all of the solar system solids. Ultimately, this is how planets are forged."

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The New York Times (NYSE: NYT) has long held the motto "All the news that's fit to print." But to expand its revenue streams, the media company is now generating content that sheds light on its own journalistic, story-building processes.

Check out the video below to learn how the print and digital newspaper is capitalizing on its respected brand in print, film, and more.

A full transcript follows the video.

More From The Motley Fool

This video was recorded on July 31, 2018.

Vincent Shen: In terms of the longer-term outlook for this company, I'm curious, Asit, what are you seeing, in terms of what The Times' management is doing to sustain its growth and adapt into more of a platform business? I know we have Wirecutter, I know we have some of the vertical expansions into cooking and the crosswords business. Anything else you're seeing, in terms of things that are irons in the fire for the company a few years from now?

Asit Sharma: Sometimes, someone on an executive team wakes up in the morning, and they have a thought come into their head, a few words, and it's a very persuasive narrative which they can communicate with the rest of the management team. I like something that I'm hearing out of The Times' management over the last couple of earnings calls. They're starting to focus on what they call the story behind the story. It's an easy, five-word phrase. What it refers to is the really persuasive interest that subscribers have over how content is made at The Times.

Let's talk about the elephant in the room. We talked about this in October. In the overarching theme of the current political climate, in which The New York Times and the Trump Administration are foils for each other, and each benefits, as we talked about in the fall, from this relationship, consumers of media want to understand how the stories that are breaking news -- it seems like, to me, every few hours, not even every few days -- how those get made. The Times is capitalizing on the regard for its content. It has a surprise hit in The Daily, which is a podcast, which seeks to uncover how an emerging news story breaks. They've announced a couple of interesting partnerships. They're going to now have a spin-off concept on The Daily called The Weekly. Hulu -- which we talked about just a few moments ago, in relation to Disney and Fox -- is going to have rights to screen this content.

Story continues

Always, with The Times, remember as well that its lofty reputation is driven by investigative journalism. I have noticed that while the company did cut some of its copy-editing stuff, it has poured more resources into investigative journalism. They broke the Harvey Weinstein sexual assault story, and won a Pulitzer Prize for that. That's turning into more content, as now, The Times is making a feature film about breaking that story.

You see how even just reporting the news, for a company which has the brand dominance in journalism, The Times, can be parlayed into something greater. There's an ever-growing field of content. It's really analogous to this idea of Disney and Fox taking their assets and trying to make something of them.

That's what I'm looking for longer-term -- how The Times takes its content and monetizes it further. Certainly, consumers seem to have a growing appetite for this.

Shen: I'll expand on that. I think, maintaining that brand and monetizing it and working off of it is going to be really important. You have this situation, thinking longer-term, where the print business is mature, it's still profitable, but it's ultimately running on a timer. Management has framed it as a cash generator that can fuel other investments for the company, with the digital platform also consistently growing, becoming a bigger part of The New York Times. I'll just point out, this time ten years ago, advertising in terms of revenue was over 60% of the top line. In the most recently reported quarter, the advertising share was just 30% of revenue, with subscriptions filling the void. The problem there is, as print advertising budgets shrink -- this has been a long, ongoing headwind for The New York Times -- that part of their revenue is also shrinking with those advertising budgets. It was down 14% last year. They're losing out on an income stream that they've said has 95% gross margin, really profitable for them.

They're experimenting a lot with the podcast, which has been immensely successful. They're spinning it out into shows, movies. The company is really thinking about these other opportunities, dedicating teams and resources within the company to looking at what else can work, in terms of these different verticals, things that are similar to cooking or crosswords or Wirecutter. They've mentioned a few other categories, such as parenting, or brain teasers, that readers might enjoy, as other areas that they can experiment in and play with.

I'll also add, CEO Mark Thompson had some interesting comments during an industry conference in May. Again, coming to the issue of The New York Times' brand and how powerful it is. In the print business, customers largely accepted, year after year, about a 5% price increase, with low churn as a result of that. That's encouraging for the company, ultimately. Right now, they're really focused, in terms of their subscriber strategy. They have a goal of expanding the subscriber and reader base. But, there's a point when, with the precedent set, in terms of the print business and the trend that they saw there, ultimately potentially being able to increase prices for the reader base, once they're at the point where they want to start maximizing revenue, looking at that more.

Asit Sharma has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Vincent Shen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Walt Disney. The Motley Fool recommends The New York Times. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
An official meeting between President Uhuru Kenyatta and US President Donald Trump is in the offing later this month.

In a statement issued on Monday, the White House said the two heads of State will meet on August 27, 2018, and will discuss ways to broaden the strategic partnership between the US and Kenya.

The meeting between the two leaders will reaffirm the longstanding relationship between the United States and Kenya as a cornerstone of peace and stability in Africa and the broader Indo-Pacific region, the statement reads in part.

President Trump and President Kenyatta will explore ways to bolster trade and investment between the two countries while strengthening security cooperation.

Kenya is a vital partner of the United States, and President Trump looks forward to discussing ways to broaden the strategic partnership based on our shared democratic values and mutual interests.

State House spokesperson Kanze Dena also confirmed the planned meeting saying President Uhuru invited by the US president.

Uhuru Kenyatta will be the third African Head of State to meet Trump at the White House after Nigerias Muhammadu Buhari and Abdel Fattah Al Sisi of Egypt.
Commercial flights have resumed between the Tajik capital, Dushanbe, and the Uzbek city of Bukhara amid improving ties between the two Central Asian neighbors.

A plane from the Tajik private airline SomonAir arrived in Bukharas international airport on August 6, the first commercial flight between the two cities in more than 25 years.

Flights between Dushanbe and the Uzbek capital, Tashkent, resumed in April 2017 after a quarter-century break.

SomonAir launched regular flights to the Uzbek city of Samarkand last month.

Passenger flights between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan were halted in 1992 when the Tajik civil war broke out.

Relations between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have been strained for years over disputes including transit routes, border security, and the sharing of water resources.

The ties began to improve after new Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev came to power in 2016, vowing to seek close ties with neighboring countries.

Tajikistan and Uzbekistan launched a regular bus service between Tashkent and the northern Tajik city of Khujand in May.

Officials in both counties say more flights and bus services connecting Tajik and Uzbek cities will be announced in the near future.
A top police official in Uzbekistan has been found dead in his office with stab wounds on his body, reports say.

Media reports in Uzbekistan on August 6, citing unnamed Tashkent law enforcement officials, said that the chief of the Interior Ministrys Main Directorate for Patrol Service and Public Safety, Dilshod Akramov, was found dead in his office on August 4.

The reports said there were several stab wounds on his body.

Akramov, a police colonel, was appointed to the post last month.

Before the appointment he led the Tashkent city police's crime-prevention directorate.

With reporting by Halq Sozi, UzNews.uz, Darakchi, and Kun.uz
SHAKHTINSK, Kazakhstan -- Several people have been sentenced to prison terms of seven to eight years after being convicted of involvement in the torture and death of an inmate in Kazakhstan.

In an August 6 ruling, the Shakhtinsk city court in the central Qaraghandy region found a deputy warden of Corrective Colony AK-159/6, Bauyrbek Shotaev, and an officer of the prison's operative unit, Vitaly Zaretsky, guilty of organizing a crime, premeditated infliction of bodily and psychological harm, and manslaughter.

They were sentenced to seven years in prison each.

The court found six inmates of the prison guilty of beating and torturing fellow inmate Valery Chupin with electric shock at Zaretsky's orders in March 2017. They were sentenced to prison terms between seven and eight years.

The court also ruled that the leadership of the regional police, penitentiary service, and prosecutor's office must be informed about the case in order "to prevent similar crimes and violations of inmates' rights in future."

Prisoners in Kazakhstan have rioted frequently in recent years to protest conditions, often maiming themselves to draw attention to their plight.
Thousands of claims rolled into insurers Tuesday from a massive hailstorm Monday, unreserved rental cars were unavailable, and glass-, roof- and vehicle-repair businesses were flooded with calls, with some scheduling work months from now.

USAA received 8,000 claims for damage to homes and vehicles Tuesday, twice as many as from the June 13 hailstorm that hit Fountain, the insurance and financial services giant reported. Other top insurers, including State Farm, Farmers and Progressive, didnt have claims numbers or didnt return calls.

Damage from major hailstorms along the Front Range, which totaled more than $500 million before Mondays storm, already triggered rate increases by insurers, said Carole Walker, executive director of the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association in Greenwood Village.

We are already seeing rate increases, and this looks to be another major catastrophic event that will add to the losses, she said. It will also add to the backups with roofing contractors and body shops.

Estimates of the number and total value of the claims are expected to be available next week. Walker said she expects those estimates to surpass the 26,000 vehicle and homeowners insurance claims totaling $169 million from the hailstorm that hit Fountain on June 13.

USAA sent a mobile claims center to The Home Depot in the Southgate shopping center, 2250 Southgate Road, to process claims and answer policyholder questions. A second mobile claims center will arrive later, said Becca Nelson, a spokeswoman at USAAs San Antonio headquarters.

Rental car agencies at the Colorado Springs Airport were honoring existing reservations but werent taking new ones, at least for a day or two, said Aviation Director Greg Phillips. All major car rental companies in the Colorado Springs area listed no vehicles for rent in Colorado Springs early Tuesday.

Auto glass giant Safelite brought in 30 extra technicians from around the nation Tuesday to help with more than 2,000 appointments scheduled since the storm hit Monday, said Eric Carruth, district manager for Colorado Springs and Denver. The company was booking appointments for next week.

This storm was twice as bad as the last one, Carruth said. Because of 10 hailstorms between Pueblo and Wyoming since June, some pieces of glass are becoming difficult to find. We are getting daily truckloads from across the country to keep up. I would expect there are 2,000 to 5,000 vehicles that will need glass replacement. We will get to them as quickly as possible. We are finding a lot of damage to windshields and back windows and even some side windows.

City Glass phones were blowing up with 150 calls for repairs since the storm, said company President Chris Bole. Service technicians were put on mandatory overtime, and repairs now are being scheduled for the end of August.

Jackie Richardson, customer relations employee at Status Symbol Auto Body, said the downtown shop is now scheduling repairs in December or January, with a backlog of hundreds of vehicles. The shops 13 employees are putting in extra hours on nights and weekends to reduce the backlog, she said.

Dave Beem, owner of Beems Collision Center at 6275 E. Platte Ave., said he is scheduling appointments for October and November, and that doesnt even include any from the latest storm. He said the shops employees are working extra hours to try to keep up.

We have cars showing up on tow trucks overnight. The insurance companies want us to figure out a way to get it done. It is overwhelming.

Brttanee Sinclair, executive assistant at Old World Roofing, said the company took 87 calls Tuesday and is scheduling appointments for next week.

The storm unleashed softball-sized hail on the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and surrounding area, injuring 14 people and numerous zoo animals as well as killing a vulture and a duck. About 3,400 people were evacuated from the zoo after the storm, which caused extensive damage and forced the zoo to remain closed Tuesday and Wednesday.

Hanover School District 28 canceled the first day of school Tuesday because of hail damage.

Jack Damioli, president of The Broadmoor, said the resort had hail damage like any other business in Colorado Springs, but declined further comment.

Contact Wayne Heilman 636-0234 Facebook www.facebook.com/ wayne.heilman Twitter twitter.com/wayneheilman
ALBUQUERQUE  A raid on a New Mexico desert compound turned up 11 children wearing rags and living in filth, and also broke open a bizarre tal
City Editor

Tom Roeder is the Gazette's City Editor. In Colorado Springs since 2003, Tom has covered the military at home and overseas and has covered statehouses in Denver and Olympia, Wash. His main job, though, is being dad to two great kids.
Floyd Ciruli, one of Colorados most noted pollsters and a go-to pundit on state politics, seems to be of two minds about Gov. John Hickenloopers chances as a presidential candidate.

Its a topic hes been asked about frequently lately, such as by KOA radios Ed Greene and Marty Lenz last week.

Nearing the end of his eight years in office, Hickenlooper maintains an approval rating that puts him in the top 10 among fellow governors, the Ciruli Associates opinion gleaner notes in his blog.

He cites a Morning Consult poll that places Hicks net approval rating at a positive 23 percentage points. Compare that to President Donald Trumps negative 13 points.

Given hes at the end of his term and governing in the age of polarization that produces more gridlock than accomplishments, Hickenlooper has done reasonably well, Ciruli said.

Hickenlooper appears to be chewing over a run/dont run decision this summer, and has said it would be really fun to seek the White House.

But while Hickenlooper and his possible presidential aspirations have been a hot topic here in Colorado, and he has been making lots of appearances in other states in recent months, the former restaurateur and brewer is not yet on the national radar, Ciruli says.

A recent Washington Examiner appraisal of the chances of Democrats in the 2020 presidential race focuses on nine potential candidates and tacks on three second-tier hopefuls. No one on either list is named Hickenlooper.

A Harvard CAPS/Harris poll in June of Democratic voters on their 2020 presidential picks didnt include the Colorado governor (Joe Biden came out on top).

And a Washington Post list in July of its picks of the top 15 contenders for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020 also leaves Hickenlooper off (although hes among 11 others labeled as worth watching).

In fact, notes Denverite, there has also been chatter about Hickenlooper staying home and challenging U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner in 2020.

As Ciruli puts it in his blog:

Although the presidential field is wide open, it is crowded with both D.C. liberal icons, like Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, newcomers, like Kamala Harris, and, of course, the establishment-types, like Joe Biden. Hickenlooper is low on most lists.

He had this to say in a Denver Post op-ed over the weekend:

(Hickenlooper) doesnt have a national profile beyond being the governor of a small western state thats most famous for legalized marijuana. Nor does he represent one of the power interest groups in the party or have great personal wealth. Yet, not being part of the party establishment is one of his appealing qualities.

But in his blog, Ciruli adds this:

As of today, the odds look long, but its early and things can change quickly. Think of 2016.
The Gazette readers describe being caught up in the hailstorm that hit the Colorado Springs area on Monday.

- Sarah Alice: Driving along 115. Had to pull over and crawl in the backseat as glass rained down from my shattered windshield and my back windshield was completely gone. (Facebook)

- Michelle Gordon: We were at the Zoo. My husband, myself and our four children had just got into our van. Within moments the hail started and we couldn't leave. We had the kids get into the middle of the van away from the windows. They screamed the whole time poor babies. It was the scariest thing ever but at least we are ok. The van however, is not. (Facebook)

- Jennifer Adams: Got our windshield as we were pulling in the garage. My dad said it right when he said, "If we didn't have bad luck, we wouldn't have any luck at all." (Facebook)

- Samantha McKay: We are so ready to be stationed at a new duty post, my Jeep was just destroyed .... Colorado weather sucks. (Facebook)

- Susan Angelece Wilhelm: My windshield is cracked, back window is out, tail lights cracked, mirror off, my 2017 Prius. Just crazy!!!! (Facebook)

- Linda Britton: Yup. Caught our windshield, at the fountain library. (Facebook)
A court in Zimbabwe on Tuesday freed on bail 27 opposition supporters arrested last week on accusations of fomenting violence in the aftermath of President Emmerson Mnangagwa's election victory over Nelson Chamisa.



Six people were killed last week in a post-election army clampdown on protests against the result that were reminiscent of the long rule of Robert Mugabe, who was toppled last November in a de factor military coup and replaced by Mnangagwa.



Magistrate Francis Vhitorini granted $50 bail to each of the 27 Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) members, the first to be arrested over last week's violent protests.



"The court has indicated that it did not consider any of them to be a flight risk. The judgment was so brilliant that we are still trying to process it," MDC lawyer Denford Halimani said.



Chamisa and his lawyers are expected to announce on Tuesday when they will challenge the results in court. He wrote on Twitter he had gone through evidence from polling stations, which showed he won "emphatically."



He said figures released by the election commission were "falsified (and) inflated in favor of the outgoing President. We are ready for the inauguration (and) formation of the next (government)."



The MDC has said security forces were abducting its members in night raids to intimidate the party and stop it challenging Mnangagwa's win in the presidential vote.



The European Union, United States, Canada and Switzerland in a joint statement said they were concerned with post-election violence and intimidation of opposition supporters.



"These human rights violations have no place in a democratic society and contravene the fundamental tenets of international human rights standards," the statement said.



Zimbabwe's foreign minister denied those accusations, telling diplomats that if there was any evidence the military would investigate the cases.



The Criminal Investigations Department said in a statement police were looking for former finance minister and opposition figure Tendai Biti, MDC chairman Morgen Komichi and MDC youth leader Happymore Chidziva linked to last week's violence.



Zimbabweans had hoped the vote would rid the country of its global pariah status and launch an economic recovery, but have watched an all too familiar pattern where the ruling party is declared the winner and the opposition rejects the outcome.



Under the constitution, a losing presidential candidate has 7 days from when a winner is declared to challenge the result at the Constitutional Court. The Court must rule within 14 days. Mnangagwa's inauguration would have to wait for the outcome of a court challenge.



Foreign Minister Sibusiso Moyo said the government had set Aug. 12 as the tentative date for Mnangagwa's inauguration if there was no court challenge to his victory.









REUTERS
Local officials and municipal attorneys say they are worried a proposed constitutional amendment  backed by the Colorado Farm Bureau and the oil and gas industry  will blunt the ability of cities, towns and counties to make many land-use decisions. The measure is Initiative 108. Backers are currently gathering signatures in hopes of placing the measure on the fall ballot.
While most of the earliest known ball courts in Mesoamerica date to 90 [ #permalink

dabhishek87 wrote:

Between A and E, I chose E.

Can someone please explain why E is wrong? Is it just because of concision?

I did not fully understood that in E, two phrases are not grammatically parallel as mentioned by @pusphitkc

the finding of waterlogged latex balls at El Manati and of representations of ballplayers painted on ceramics at San Lorenzo attest

of waterlogged latex balls at El Manati and

of representations of ballplayers painted on ceramics at San Lorenzo

the finding

attest
23:37

A 42-year-old Muslim woman has won the Democratic nomination to run unopposed for a House seat in Michigan, bringing her closer to becoming the first female from the minority community to be elected to the United States Congress, according to a media report.





Rashida Tlaib, a former state Representative, has won a crowded battle to replace former US Representative John Conyers Jr in the Michigan's 13th Congressional District Democratic primary, The Detroit News reported.





No Republican is running for the seat in the Democratic-leaning district, meaning Palestinian-origin Tlaib is virtually guaranteed to win the seat in election scheduled for November.





Tlaib had pulled in 33.2 per cent of the vote over Detroit City Council President Brenda Jones, who has 29.2 per cent, with 96 per cent of precincts reporting, it said.





She has boasted a grassroots campaign and came out on top in fundraising, topping $1 million. She said her day had been filled with emotion and described it as 'happy chaos', the report said.





'Especially meeting voters and talking to them, they are inspired,' she was quoted as saying by the report.





Tlaib had served in the Michigan House from 2009 until 2014.





The 89-year-old Conyers was first elected to the House in 1964. He stepped down in December citing health reasons, though several former female staffers had accused him of sexual harassment.





The daughter of Palestinian immigrants and the eldest of 14 children, Tlaib became the first Muslim woman in the state legislature in 2008. She was a lawyer and community activist prior to her political career.





The 13th Congressional District she will represent includes a large southern area of suburban Detroit in Wayne County. After boundary lines were redrawn in 2012, the 13th is the only congressional district entirely within one county. -- PTI


Japan's Defense Ministry will raise the age limit of applicants for Self-Defense Forces members and cadets from the current 26 to 32 as early as October, ministry officials said Tuesday.

To conduct the first age hike in 28 years, the ministry will amend an ordinance on rules to implement the SDF law after seeking public comment.

The ministry had initially planned to push up the age ceiling in fiscal 2019 starting next April. But consent from the Air, Ground and Maritime SDF was obtained more smoothly than expected, the officials said.

The number of applicants for SDF members and cadets has been declining on the back of the falling birth rate and economic recovery in the country.

The ministry hopes that the easier age requirement will help the SDF secure capable personnel, the officials added.
STORY UPDATED: check for updates below.

Was a van full of illegals caught illegally casting ballots in the Ohio special election? No, that's not true: a story circulating online that made this claim was posted by a satirical website that tries to trick conservatives and Republicans into sharing fake news so they can then be mocked for it. The events described in the article did not actually happen and there are several hints in it that make it clear the whole thing is not real.

The story originated from an article published by America's Last Line Of Defense on August 7, 2018 titled "Van Full of Illegals Caught Voting in Ohio Special Election" (archived here) which opened:

The Ohio special election race between Democrat Troy Balderson and Republican Danny O'Connor has been heated. Balderson has whipped out many dirty tricks, including personal attacks accusing O'Connor of being a Nazi and the usual Democrat accusations of "racism" and "Russian collusion." But now, they have gone too far! Once again, like they did in California, Pennsylvania, and New Mexico in 2016, the Leftist scumbags have recruited illegals to cast fake ballots. The Shermer, Ohio Gazette reported Tuesday: It was quite a scene here at Bob Moller Middle School when police suddenly surrounded a van in the parking lot. According to witnesses, the Shermer Police Department pulled nine Hispanic men out of the van. "An investigation revealed that the men were voting in the District 12 special election for the House of Representatives to replace Republican Pat Tiberi," Police Chief Mark Wallman said. "These individuals had voted in two other locations using fake IDs." The nine men were seen and caught on security camera using their false identitication to vote for the Democrat contender.

Users on social media only saw this title, description and thumbnail, offering no clue the story was fake:

Van Full of Illegals Caught Voting in Ohio Special Election LOCK THEM UP!

Several items in the story don't make sense:

There is no place named "Shermer" in Ohio, so there is no Shermer Police Department and no Shermer Gazette either.

There is no "Bob Moller Middle School". The name does sound a bit like Robert Mueller, the head of the Special Counsel investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 United States elections and related matters.

The story references " illegal immigrants from Mexico, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and Cuba". Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory and its inhabitants are U.S. citizens so they are by definition not immigrants (illegal or not).

The party affiliation of Troy Balderson and Danny O'Connor is switched in the story.

The header of the site carries the warning "Information you probably shouldn't trust".

The site (and sites related to it) pulled several other hoaxes in the past involving vehicles of increasing size full of illegal immigrants voting in U.S. elections or trying to sneak past the border:

Fake News: Van Full Of Illegals NOT Caught Voting At Multiple Alabama Polling Locations | Lead Stories The ironically named fake news website nofakenews.online is up to its usual tricks with a story (archived here) titled "UPDATE: Van Full Of Illegals Caught Voting At Multiple Alabama Polling Locations" which opened: The Democrat Party is up to their usual dirty tricks as Republican senate candidate Roy Moore fights against their cheating ways in an effort to become Alabama's next senator.

Fake News: 'Busload Of Blacks' From 3 States Did NOT Drive To Alabama To Vote Illegally | Lead Stories And here's the next fake/satire story copied ( archive) by "real" fake news site Conservative Stamp: "BREAKING: Busload Of Blacks From 3 States Drove To Alabama To Vote Illegally". The article opened: As you have probably heard, some blacks care so much about democracy that they openly planned to stack the vote against Roy Moore in Alabama by committing voter fraud on a massive scale.

Fake News: Trucks Full Of Illegals Did NOT Cast Fake Votes In Pennsylvania Race | Lead Stories Did truckloads full of illegal immigrants cast fake votes in the Pennsylvania election for the 18th Congressional District? And did this invalidate Conor Lamb's narrow win over Rick Saccone? We won't know 100% certain who won until after all questions about potential recounts have been settled but one thing we do know: the story about the trucks full of illegals is a hoax and is definitely not true.

Fake News: Passenger Plane Full Of Illegals Did NOT Skydive To America, Did NOT Land Inside A Prison | Lead Stories Did a passenger plane full of illegal immigrants fly over the U.S. border in an attempt to parachute across and did it all go horribly wrong for them with the skydivers landing directly in a New Mexico prison named "La Maga Laro State Prison" where they were caught by ICE?

(We are a bit surprised that it is only a vanload this time, we would have expected at least a train or cruise ship given the pattern...)

If all that isn't enough the site comes with a clear satire disclaimer at the bottom of each article:

satire ~sati()r

noun

the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, OR ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues.

If you disagree with the definition of satire or have decided it is synonymous with "comedy," you should really just move along.

The owner and main writer of the site is self-professed liberal troll Christopher Blair, a man from Maine who has made it his full time job to troll gullible conservatives and Trump supporters into liking and sharing his articles. He runs several other websites, including potatriotpost.us, dailyworldupdate.us and nofakenewsonline.us. Sometimes he is also known under his nickname "Busta Troll". A second man working on the sites is John Prager as revealed in this earlier story we wrote.

Articles from Blair's sites frequently get copied by "real" fake news sites who often omit the satire disclaimer and any other hints the stories are fake. Blair has tried to get these sites shut down in the past but new ones keep cropping up and he keeps knocking them down.

If you see one of his stories on a site that does not contain a satire disclaimer, assume it is fake news. If you do see the satire disclaimer it is of course also fake news.

We wrote about americaslastlineofdefense.org before, here are our most recent articles that mention the site:
Niger's Independence Day

Washington, DC - Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo: "On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, congratulations to the government and people of Niger on your 58th anniversary of Nigers independence.

"We value our strong and longstanding partnership. Nigers democratic institutions and active civil society provide important avenues for citizens to participate in their governance and future. The United States recognizes Nigers important contributions to stability and security in the face of multiple threats in the Sahel. We will continue to support Niger in the year ahead in the pursuit of economic growth and opportunity, regional security and good governance.

"I wish the people of Niger peace and prosperity in the upcoming year as you mark 58 years of independence."
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
This helps to hammer home the fact that the Iranian uprising and its call for regime change are merely being propagated by liberal, educated urbanites who are influenced by the West. Instead, it is the overwhelming wish of the Iranian people as a whole. Democracy, human rights, and freedom appeal to all Iranians.

The protests in Qom were part of a larger protest across several Iranian cities on Sunday, including in Karaj, Shiraz, Mashhad, Isfahan, and Tehran, where protesters condemned the Regimes policies and their dwindling living conditions.

Many have attributed these protests to economic uncertainty surrounding the return of US sanctions on Monday. These sanctions were reimposed following Donald Trumps decision to pull the US out of the 2015 nuclear deal in May.

In Tehran on Sunday, dozens gathered around the Calj Bridge, in order to avoid the strict security measures imposed by the Regimes authorities in more central locations. The state-run media, however, downplayed the protests as part of the Regimes attempts to seem in control.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has failed to deal with the crises causing the protests, despite promising to do so on many occasions. This resulted in him having to attend an accountability hearing in the Iranian Parliament on August 1, but to be clear, the Iranian government did not (and will not) hold any of their own responsibility. This was a PR exercise designed to placate the people, although no one will be fooled.

The Regime blames foreign enemies for its crises, when the reality is that the mullahs are the ones responsible. They are the ones who dangerously destabilised the economy through corruption and mismanagement, preferring to line their own pockets, fund terrorist group and create havoc across the Middle East rather than attend to the needs of their people. They are the ones who violated the nuclear deal, which was so widely in their favour, and caused the reimposition of sanctions. They are the ones who refused Trumps offer of talks to resolve the issue.

And soon, the Regime will pay for their crimes when the Iranian peoples uprising results in the overthrow of the mullahs and their expulsion from the Middle East. The US should publically support the Iranian people in this goal in order to bring peace to the region.
These sanctions are being reimposed following Donald Trumps withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear accord in May, when he accused the Regime of cheating on the deal and expressed his belief that the horrible nuclear deal did not do enough to stop Irans other malign activities in the Middle East. He warned of severe consequences for anyone who continued to do business in Iran after the sanctions were imposed.

Trump said: We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

Trumps decision was criticised by those remaining in the deal, like the EU and Iran, but was lauded by those who support regime change in Iran. These sanctions are likely the final blows to the already fragile Iranian economy, which will encourage the peoples popular protest and help the Iranians take down their rulers.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that these sanctions would remain in place until Iran was prepared to behave like a normal county, but there no evidence of that yet from the worlds foremost state sponsor of terrorism.

Although regime change is not yet the official US policy on Iran, many high-ranking officials have come out to support it in recent years, including National Security Advisor John Bolton, who spoke at the 2017 Free Iran rally.

Bolton recently said Irans leadership is on very shaky ground.

The American government also officially supports the Iranian peoples right to protest, as evidenced by Trumps tweets earlier this year.

The Iranian Regime has predictably responded to Trumps decision by blaming the US for their current economic crisis and the Iranian uprising, both of which were already in place long before the withdrawal. In fact, the rial has been decreasing in value since the mullahs took power in 1979 and the latest uprising began in December.

The mullahs should know this. They were the ones who arrested 8,000 protesters and threatened them with the death penalty in January and they were the ones who artificially fixed the exchange rate in April.

More US sanctions, targeting Irans oil sector and central bank, will come into force on November 4.
PASCAGOULA, Miss. -- Current Pascagoula mayor Dane Maxwell was asked outside of Monday's Jackson County Board of Supervisors meeting if he thought former mayor Jim Blevins and his administration were responsible for the city's current financial status.

While Maxwell didn't outright respond "no", he didn't necessarily shy away from the question either. On July 25, comptroller Sherria Trosclair told supervisors that an audit had shown the city was facing a $14 million deficit.

"I don't have to say anything, the forensic audit identifies the deficit happened between the years 2012-2017," Maxwell said.

Also at the July 25 meeting Maxwell informed the public he'd alerted the State Auditor's office and governor about the city's financial situation.

"If there was any malfeasance or misconduct of a criminal nature in the budgetary or management practices of prior administrations, we will leave that determination up to the State Auditor, Attorney General and District Attorney," he said.

Maxwell's father Robert served as mayor of Pascagoula from 2009-2013 and shortly thereafter, Blevins was elected as the CEO of the city.

However, recent comments from Dane Maxwell could be perceived as thinly-veiled accusations at his predecessor and his administration.

In an exclusive with the Mississippi Press, Blevins released the following statement:

"I have no opinion on what the mayor might be saying, I try to support every administration by being deeply engaged as a volunteer in community activities, committees, and boards over the last 25 years. I reach out to the present mayor and council on a number of occasions, but have not had anyone ask me for input.

"It is incomprehensible to think that any council member in the last three councils might have intentionally done something fraudulent or criminal. I would like to reiterate that -- it is incomprehensible to think council members in the last three councils intentionally committed fraud or acted criminally.

"Every administration since Hurricane Katrina has had big challenges managing the revenues and expenses of Pascagoula. There has been tremendous progress during the past 12 years and every administration builds off the successes and failures of those that came before them.

"The present administration developed and approved the present budget they are using and all previous financial records are available to the public. I was told the present council has spent $44 million through the first three quarters of this budget year.

"When I left office, there was a very experienced staff in place and I have been told there are several key positions not filled, including the most important position in the city -- the permanent city manager. We purposely left this position open so this administration could choose a city manager of their choice.

"During the previous administration, there were four external audits done by a highly respected local firm. There are also additional financial reviews by the State of Mississippi Development Bank related to the two bonds we sought to get approved.

"These audits are public record."
The tariff for maintenance of areas adjacent to a house will be much less, since it will not include a garbage removal service, the official said.

Deputy Chairman of Kyiv City State Administration Petro Panteleyev says Kyiv residents will pay for the removal of solid domestic waste separately as early as in August, while the rate will depend rather on the number of people actually living in an apartment and a house type rather than on the apartment area.

"The calculation of the payment will depend on the number of people registered in each apartment. In our opinion, this is a fair approach, as we all produce garbage, so it is absolutely incorrect to tie up payment for the [removal] of garbage to some other factors," he said at a press conference on August 7.

Read alsoKyiv plans to build new waste processing plants

According to the official, garbage removal was introduced as a separate service due to the fact that the law of Ukraine on housing and utilities services came into force on June 10. The document does not provide that the apartment buildings management service includes removal of solid household waste.

Panteleyev says the payment will depend not only on the number of registered residents, but also on the average rate of waste accumulation, depending on the type of a house and the tariff of waste removal enterprises.

For example, rates of waste accumulation will be 1.39 cubic meters in hostels, 1.93 cubic meters in houses with garbage chutes, and 2.15 cubic meters in houses without garbage chutes, while the tariff of Kyivcommuntrans utility company, the winner in waste disposal tender, will be set at UAH 115.09 (US$4.2) per cubic meter.

The official says an average monthly tariff will amount to UAH 20-25 per person. So, there will be no significant increase compared to the previous tariff, which was based on the apartment area.

Thus, the tariff for maintenance of areas adjacent to a house will be much less, since it will not include a garbage removal service, Panteleyev added.

At the same time, he admitted there is a problem in the capital on registration of people actually living in apartments. Therefore, he urged Kyiv residents to voluntarily inform the authorities about the actual number of apartment dwellers, so as not to cause overaccumulation of solid waste in garbage cans.

"The regulatory framework, which is being prepared by the Ministry for Regional Development, Construction and Housing, will regulate the process of charging for the service based on actual number of residents. And we are starting to work now. We appeal to Kyiv residents to voluntarily provide information about the number of people living with them. This will make the accrual per each house balanced, avoiding groundless increase in tariff," he said.

According to the official, the residents of the capital will be able to provide relevant information in free form to one of 70 municipal service centers.
The largest wildfire in Californias history continues to grow. Hot and windy conditions have tested firefighters across the state.

The Northern California fire by the Mendocino National Forest has now destroyed 1,178 square kilometers. That is nearly the size of Los Angeles.

The Mendocino fire continued to grow this week, even after it passed a record set only eight months ago. Last December, the Thomas fire destroyed 1,139 square kilometers in Southern California. It killed two people and burned more than 1,000 buildings.

The Mendocino fire is mostly burning in remote areas. But officials say it threatens more than 11,000 buildings. Over the weekend, officials ordered more people to leave their homes.

A spokesman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire, said more than 14,000 firefighters are now battling major fires across the state.

Another wildfire in Northern California has destroyed more than 1,000 homes in and around the city of Redding. Cal Fire said that wildfire started more than two weeks ago. It has killed two firefighters and four residents. It displaced more than 38,000 people.

U.S. President Donald Trump has declared a major disaster in the state. Trump also wrote on Twitter that the wildfires are growing because of bad environmental laws. He said the laws do not permit, in his words, massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized.

A spokesman for Cal Fire did not comment on Trumps tweet. But the spokesman did say that firefighters have enough water to fight the fires.

Wildfire experts, environmental activists and some politicians say the states intense wildfires are linked to climate change.

The U.S. National Weather Service says firefighters will have to deal with temperatures as high as 43 degrees Celsius over the next few days. Strong winds may also strengthen the flames.

Melissa Morgados husband is a firefighter in California. She wrote a blog about a year in the life of a California firefighter wife.

She wrote, My husband and I spent 256 days apart apart in 2017. This has been the hardest year to date.

I'm Ashley Thompson.

Hai Do adapted this story for Learning English based on AP and Reuters news reports. Ashley Thompson was the editor.

Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

_____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

remote - adj. far away from other people, houses, cities, etc.

resident - n. someone who lives in a particular place

massive - adj. very large

utilize - v. to use something for a particular purpose

flame - n. the hot, glowing gas that can be seen when a fire is burning
In the U.S. this week, a number of technology companies banned controversial radio host Alex Jones from using their services. The companies say Jones violated their policies against hate speech. But Jones and his supporters claim the companies are violating his right to free speech.

The conflict between Jones and the social media companies raises an issue that others have long been discussing: Are social media services such as Facebook and YouTube public places where anybody can say anything? Or are they more like private television stations and newspapers, which control their content?

Who is Alex Jones?

Jones has a radio show called The Alex Jones Show and a website called Infowars. He has claimed that officials in the U.S. government helped carry out the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and that the 2012 shooting of 20 children and 6 adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School did not really happen.

The website Vox reports that as many as 10 million people visit Infowars every month, and 17 million people looked at his YouTube channel in the past 30 days.

Critics of Jones and his media say he gives his audience wrong information and promotes stories that lead to violence. They have objected to his descriptions of Muslims, transgender people, Jews and other groups.

Several people have brought lawsuits against him, including parents of a child who was killed at Sandy Hook. They and others say they have suffered threats and pressure because of Jones.

So what should technology companies do?

In recent months, technology companies have struggled to draw a line about what content they will and will not accept. Facebook especially has made efforts to prevent people from creating accounts for people who do not exist, or from sharing information they know is wrong.

In the case of Alex Jones, Facebook did not say misleading information was the reason they banned the radio host. Instead, it said Jones words on Infowars used dehumanizing language and violated their rules against promoting violence and hate.

Apple reportedly removed five of Infowars six podcasts from iTunes for violating hate speech. The company told the Associated Press that it does not tolerate hate speech but did not name Jones or comment further.

Free speech versus hate speech

Jones and his supporters have pushed back against the ban, saying the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects his right to free speech. He warns against censorship, saying that technology companies and critics want to silence him because they do not like his point of view.

Even those who do not like Jones ideas ask where the ban against him will lead. The president of the Media Research Center, Brent Bozell, wrote, We are rapidly approaching a point where censorship of opposing voices is the norm. Thats dangerous.

But others have pushed back against Jones claim of First Amendment protection. A Muslim-American writer, Rafia Zakaria, says Jones words are a kind of domestic terrorism and should be outlawed, just as support for international terrorism is.

Some First Amendment scholars make a different argument. They say laws have always restricted some speech, especially when it unfairly damages others. They say media figures cannot call their stories opinion and avoid responsibility for them.

Another observer offers yet a different idea. Media historian Brian Rosewald points out that technology companies are businesses, and they do not want to risk losing money because of someone the audience or advertisers do not like.

Im Jonathan Evans.

Kelly Jean Kelly wrote this story for Learning English based on reporting from the Associated Press and other outlets. Hai Do was the editor.

_____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

controversial - adj. causing much discussion, disagreement, or argument

content - n. the ideas, facts, or images in a book, movies, aricles, websites...

audience - n. the people who watch, read or listen to something

promote - v. to help something happen, develop or increase

transgender - adj. of or relating to people who feel that their true nature does not match their sex at birth

misleading - adj. something that is not true

tolerate - v. to accept the feelings, behavior, or beliefs of someone

censorship - n. the system or practice examining and removing content

the norm - n. something that is usual or expected
A new study has found that cases of meat allergies caused by an insect bite appear to be increasing in the United States.

The study reported that a large number of cases in which people had strong allergic reactions were linked to a specific meat allergy. The allergy  which is caused by tick bites - is linked to alpha-gal, a complex sugar found in red meat. Alpha-gal is not found in humans, but is common in red meats like pork and beef.

The study was based on patients treated at a single health center in Memphis, Tennessee. Results were reported in the scientific journal the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.

Researchers studied patients who suffered from an intense allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is the most severe kind of allergic reaction. People suffering from anaphylaxis can experience a series of reactions, some of which can be life-threatening. The condition can result from allergies caused by food, drugs, insect bites or other things.

Over a 10-year period, the researchers evaluated 218 cases of anaphylaxis in patients from age 9 to 78 years old. Before the new study, doctors could not identify the cause of anaphylaxis in about 60 percent of patients. They noticed, however, a big drop after examining the new results.

The researchers identified 85 cases, or 39 percent, of anaphylaxis as having a specific cause. Of these, 28 cases, or 33 percent, were found to be linked to alpha-gal. This was a higher percentage than any other cause.

Researchers identified another 57 cases, or 26 percent, of anaphylaxis, but they were less sure about the probable cause.

Overall, the meat allergy was the most commonly identified cause of anaphylaxis in a total of 142 cases.

There are no exact figures for how many Americans developed tick-related meat allergies, which have also been discovered in other countries. But results from several U.S. studies show that up to 5,000 people developed the alpha-gal red meat allergy.

Jay Lieberman is a doctor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center who helped lead the study. He told Reuters that even though the new findings are important, he does not want the news to cause fear or hysteria among the public.

The vast majority of people with a history of tick bites are not going to develop this allergy to meat and will continue to eat meat with no problem, Lieberman said. He added that even among those found to carry the alpha-gal molecule, only a small number will actually show symptoms.

But Liebermans team does hope the new study will inform doctors and patients that the meat allergy could be the cause of unexplained anaphylaxis. Many would not make this connection because the tick-related allergy is a fairly recent discovery.

Im Bryan Lynn.

Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from VOA News, Reuters and other sources. Hai Do was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.

_____________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

allergy  n. a medical condition that causes someone to become sick after eating, touching, or breathing something that is harmless to most people

tick  n. a small insect that sucks the blood of animals

hysteria  n. extreme fear, excitement or anger which cannot be controlled

vast  adj. extremely large

symptom  n. a change that shows that a disease is present
[August 07, 2018] Actifio Raises $100 Million to Accelerate Growth WALTHAM, Mass., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Actifio, the world's leading enterprise Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) software provider, today announced it has raised $100 million in a financing round led by Crestline Investors and joined by North Bridge Venture Partners, 83North, Advanced Technology Ventures, Heritage Group, Andreessen Horowitz, and other existing investors. The investment, which brings the company's valuation to more than $1.3 billion, is a testament to Actifio's established leadership in delivering multi-cloud data management software solutions to more than 3,000 enterprises worldwide. Ash Ashutosh, Founder & CEO of Actifio, said, "Every day, we deliver on our mission of enabling global enterprises to accelerate their businesses by unlocking the strategic value of data  on-premises or across a multi-cloud architecture. Organizations worldwide use Actifio software to deliver Data-as-a-Service, making data the new infrastructure for security, DevOps, analytics, compliance and governance. Using the hardware and infrastructure of their choice, on-premises, in public cloud and hybrid multi-cloud. Crestline gets this. We are excited to partner with Crestline to further accelerate data-driven business transformation initiatives in the global market." Will Palmer, Managing Director at Crestline Investors, said, "Under the leadership of industry veteran Ash Ashutosh, Actifio is well positioned for continued success as the pioneer and innovator in the DaaS market. We have been impressed with the broad capabilities of Actifio's software and the immense value proposition it delivers to its customer base across multiple vital use cases. We look forward to continued growth at the company." Accelerated Enterprise Adoption Driving Company Momentum Accelerating enterprise adoption : Continued sequential and year-on-year growth in attracting the world's leading brands including 5 of top 20 global financials, 4 of the top 10 energy companies, 3 of the top 10 healthcare providers, 6 of the top 10 service providers and 4 of the top 20 global retail organizations.

Accelerating public and hybrid cloud adoption : Nearly 20% of sales are driven by global enterpises adopting public cloud platforms either in hybrid or cloud-native architectures.

Pioneer and industry leader for managing massive database workloads : More than 80% of Actifio users are driven by the need for scale and performance to manage databases that power business-critical applications. Nearly 60% of revenues now occur in DevOps and test data management environments. Actifio today protects and accelerates development for the largest single database instances, including several that are hundreds of terabytes in size, that are at the heart of the business. Over the past year, Actifio has broadened enterprise support for SQL, NoSQL, on-premises and cloud-resident databases and applications.

Technology leadership : Actifio was recognized in Gartner's Critical Capabilities report as a leader in virtual environments, public cloud, databases, and self-service along with being named a visionary in Gartner's Magic Quadrant for Data Center Backup and Recovery Solutions.

Outstanding customer satisfaction : Actifio was recognized as a 2018 Gartner Peer Insights Customer's Choice solution for enterprise data center backup and recovery.

Continued expansion of cloud platform and OEM partnerships : Advancing new joint solutions and expanded routes to market with IBM, Google, Microsoft, and others.

Hugely successful inaugural worldwide user conference in June, Data Driven 2018: Seminal annual conference bringing together global business and IT leaders who are driving data-driven transformation of their business. Steve Duplessie, Founder and Senior Analyst, Enterprise Strategy Group, said, "Actifio has staked out a unique and incredibly powerful position in the marketplace. Being the first to recognize the power of enabling organizations to leverage their data assets anytime, anywhere for any reason has led them to a customer base of over 3,000 marquee names in a very short time. This funding should help them step on the gas pedal." About Actifio

Actifio is the world's leading Data-as-a-Service platform. It enables thousands of users around the world to deliver their data just as they deliver their applications and infrastructure as a service available instantly, anywhere. An enterprise-class software platform powered by patented Virtual Data Pipeline technology, Actifio frees data from traditional infrastructure to accelerate adoption of hybrid cloud, build higher quality applications faster, and improve business resiliency and availability. For more, visit Actifio.com or follow @Actifio on Twitter. About Crestline Investors, Inc.

Crestline Investors, Inc., founded in 1997 and based in Fort Worth, Texas, is an institutional alternative investment management firm that specializes in credit and opportunistic investments, including financing and restructuring solutions for mature private equity funds. In addition, the firm manages a multi-PM equity market-neutral hedge fund, and provides beta and hedging Solutions for institutional clients. Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, the company maintains affiliate offices in New York City, Chicago, London, Toronto and Tokyo. For more information, please visit https://www.crestlineinvestors.com/. Market size estimate based on IDC Market Glance, 2Q18: https://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=US43745318 Media Contact:

Mark Fredrickson or P.J. Lee, CTP for Actifio

mfredrickson@ctpboston.com

pjlee@ctpboston.com View original content with multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/actifio-raises-100-million-to-accelerate-growth-300693031.html SOURCE Actifio

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The image was later reshaped with the plane removed. Saudi Arabia's media ministry said it was investigating the incident.

Many Saudis went onto suggest that Canada should mind its own business in handling their local crisis, or help the indigenous women of Canada instead of interfering in Saudi Arabia.

Amid a diplomatic spat between Saudi Arabia and Canada, a pro-government Saudi Twitter account shared - and then deleted - a digitally altered image that appeared to show a plane flying toward the skyline of Toronto.

Tension began to build on Thursday after Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystina Freeland tweeted she was alarmed to learn that Samar Badawi, Raif Badawi's sister, has been imprisoned in Saudi Arabia.

"Canada will continue to advocate for human rights and for the fearless women and men who push for these fundamental rights around the world". "The Embassy of Canada to Saudi Arabia, in Riyadh, continues its regular operations, including consular services", the statement added.

The arrests last week brought criticism from the Canadian government. Samar's brother, Raif Badawi, is a blogger who was arrested in 2012 and sentenced to 10 years in prison and 1,000 lashes for criticizing the Saudi clerics, for which he was convicted of "insulting Islam".

The latest arrests come weeks after more than a dozen women's rights campaigners were detained and accused of undermining national security and collaborating with enemies of the state.

Canadian authorities said they are "seriously concerned" about Saudi Arabia's freeze of new trade between the countries.

According to the Toronto Star, there are about 16,000 Saudi students studying in Canada.

But Riyadh's singling out of Canada is aimed at strongly discouraging other critical Western governments from speaking out, observers say.

The Saudi students are part of a cohort of 1,200 global students at UPEI.
A senior administration official told Fox News these restored sanctions are created to constrict the revenue Iran uses to fund "terrorists, dictators, proxy militias, and the regime's own cronies".

"The Iranian regime faces a choice", Trump said in a statement as the clock ticked down on Monday.

Donald Trump has signed an executive order to reimpose controversial sanctions on Iran.

The stiff economic sanctions ratchet up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after Trump pulled the USA out of the worldwide accord limiting Iran's nuclear activities.

Mr Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the worldwide agreement.

"The United States is fully committed to enforcing all of our sanctions, and we will work closely with nations conducting business with Iran to ensure complete compliance".

Further sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

Benjamin Brown is a reporter for Fox News.

White House Security Adviser John Bolton told CNN Monday, "If the Iranians are really willing to come and talk about all of their malign behavior in the region and around the world, I think they'd find the President willing to do it". European allies said they "deeply regret" the USA action.

Mr Rouhani said: "They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation".

"They've got to behave like a normal country".

"We would like to see a change in policy, but there is no way of knowing how long that will take", the official said. Renault, Total, Peugeot, General Electric, Boeing, Hyundai, Mazda, IndusInd Bank and other major companies have either left Iran or asked their investors to do so before the return of U.S. sanctions. Protesters in the Iranian capital swarmed its historic Grand Bazaar on Monday, news agencies reported, and forced shopkeepers to close their stalls in apparent anger over the Islamic Republic's troubled economy, months after similar demonstrations rocked the country.

"No Iranian politician can risk negotiating with the president who trashed the outcome of 12 years of negotiations over the nuclear issue and can't come to any lasting agreement with his own party and US's traditional allies", he said.

US trade with Iran stood at $258 million (Dh948m) in 2016, according to the US Census Bureau, while exports to Iran from the European Union, which will be affected by secondary sanctions, were worth $13 billion previous year.
Berrin was sentenced to 12 years in prison while Christian received a 12-year sentence in Freiburg state court.

A mother and her partner have been handed lengthy prison terms by a court in southern Germany for the years-long sexual abuse of the woman's child, who was sold for sex with men on the darknet.

The couple, who identified only as Berrin T and Christian L, lived in the town of Staufen near Freiburg, Germany, and were paid up to 10,000 (8,950) a time to abuse their son.

Their sentences fell short of what prosecutors had demanded - 14 years and six months for Taha and 13 years and six months for Lais.

They were found guilty of rape, aggravated sexual assault of children, forced prostitution and distribution of child pornography following a two-month trial that began in June, according to BBC News.

The pair and six others were arrested last September.

On Tuesday, the Freidburg court convicted the couple for forced prostitution, rape, sexual and physical abuse, humiliation and bondage in nearly 60 separate identified acts.

On Monday, the same German court sentenced a Spanish pedophile, Javier Gonzalez Diaz, to 10 years behind bars for paying the parents to sexually abuse the same boy over and over again.

Video footage catalogued the horror of the boy's abuse, which included him being tied up and subjected to verbal humiliation.

The couple was also ordered to pay a total of 42,500 euro (38,000) in compensation to the boy and another victim, a young girl.

In his verdict, Buergelin said Taha went along with the abuse at first so she would not lose Lais as a partner and later "for financial motives".

Local authorities have been accused of failing to protect the boy, who now lives with a foster family.

The boy was taken out of the family home in March past year, but was sent back weeks later by a local court.
Saudi Arabia announced Sunday suspensions of all trade and business deals with Canada over what it termed interference into its internal affairs following a call by the Canadian foreign ministry to free all civil rights activists languishing in prison in the kingdom.

The Saudi foreign ministry also gave the Canadian ambassador 24 hours to leave the kingdom. It also recalled its ambassador in Montreal, state-run news SPA reported.

The kingdom also claimed it retained its right to take further action.

The strong rhetoric came after Saudi authorities said they were called on by the Canadian foreign ministry and the Canadian embassy to immediately release civil rights activists including the in-law of dual Canadian and Saudi citizen.

Canada is gravely concerned about additional arrests of civil society and womens rights activists in #SaudiArabia, including Samar Badawi. We urge the Saudi authorities to immediately release them and all other peaceful #humanrights activists, Global Affairs Canada said on its Twitter feed on Friday.

Samar Badawi is sister of Saudi blogger jailed dissident blogger Raif Badawi whose wife Ensaf Haidar recently obtained the Canadian citizenship.

Saudi authorities arrested last week Samar and Nassima al-Sadah in a new wave of clampdown on activists including journalists and clerics. Dozens of women activists who protested for the abolition on a ban on womens rights to drive and male guardianship system have been squatting in prison for several months.

Saudi authorities protested against the Canadian foreign ministrys Tweeter post.

The Canadian position is an attack on Saudi Arabia that requires a firm stance towards it. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expresses its absolute and categorical rejection of the position of the Canadian government, the foreign ministry statement said.

The legitimate rights (of those arrested) have not been denied and they were provided with all guarantees during the investigation and trial stages,

The kingdom also threatened to interfere in Canadian affairs should the Ottawa repeat it again.

Any further step from the Canadian side in that direction will be considered as acknowledgment of our right to interfere in the Canadian domestic affairs, the ministry said.

In 2014, the Canadian unit of US weapons maker General Dynamics Corp. won a contract worth up to $13 billion to build light-armored vehicles for Saudi Arabia, in what Ottawa said at the time was the largest advanced manufacturing export win in Canadian history, Reuters reports.
This image revealed the presence of both the human T-cell leukemia type-1 virus (HTLV-1), (also known as the human T lymphotropic virus type-1 virus), and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Human T-cell leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV-1), a human oncoretrovirus, is the etiologic agent of adult T-cell leukemia, and of tropical spastic paraparesis/HTLV-1associated myelopathy. Two closely related retroviruses, HIV-1 and HIV-2, have been identified as causing AIDS in different geographic regions. HIV-1 causes most cases of AIDS in the U.S., with only a few cases of HIV-2 having been found in the U.S. Epidemiologically, HIV-2 has been found to be mostly an infection of persons from West Africa. Credit: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Public Health Image Library

This ancient virus has been infecting humans for over 1500 years, and new figures show a worrisome trend in Western Australia.

The human T cell leukaemia virus type 1, or HTLV-1, is a sexually transmitted virus that causes severe health conditions in humans. Worse still, there is no cure or treatment.

The deadliest of these conditions is a type of cancer affecting the body's T cells. The condition is called HTLV-1-associated myelopathy, and it affects the nervous system, potentially leading to death.

The HTLV-1 virus is an old human foe that has been found in Andean mummies more than 1500 years old, according to one study.

Today, the virus is found around the world, infecting around 5 million to 10 million people, though some parts of the world are worse affected than others. Experts warn that more research is needed to get a more accurate figure.

The HTLV-1 virus was discovered more than 35 years ago in the laboratory of Robert Gallo. He is the co-founder and director of the Institute of Human Virology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in the USA. He also co-discovered the HIV virus back in the 1980s.

The HTLV-1 virus can be transmitted sexually and from mother to child through breastfeeding, but the most efficient mechanism of transmission is through blood, Robert explains.

About 12% of the people infected will develop serious conditions at some point in their lives, particularly cancer.

"Arguably, HTLV-1 is the most cancer-causing agent we know. No other virus or bacteria is known to cause cancer so efficiently," Robert explains.

HTLV-1 in Australia

The HTLV-I virus is thought to have originated from multiple zoonotic events, likely involving the transmission of the virus from monkeys to humans. In Australia, where monkeys do not occur, the origin of this virus likely involved human migration, possibly from Indonesia a long time ago, Robert says.

Regardless of how or when the virus got here, it's been quite successful at spreading and surviving in some populations.

According to recent estimates, in some communities of northern Australia, the rates of infection have reached alarming figures. In Alice Springs, the third-largest town in the Northern Territory, more than 40% of adults are infected with the HTLV-1 virus. Over 30% of these infected people have developed diseases associated with the virus.

Get up to speed on the HTLV-1 virus. Credit: THE INFOGRAPHICS SHOW

This unusually high rate of infection is a bit of a mystery, but it has been attributed to a combination of the stealth infection pattern of the virusyou can get infected and feel perfectly normal for yearsand the lack of proper healthcare approaches to prevent its spread.

A solution to this problem would be the development of a vaccine, but so far, there has been little research put towards that end.

No cure in sight?

With little effort put towards eliminating the spread of the virus and a lack of research funds invested in the development of a vaccine, things aren't looking good.

There are currently no healthcare policies in place to educate about this virus or prevent its spread. Robert thinks that part of the problem is that people are not aware of the HTLV-1 virus. This means that more effort is needed by the media to communicate the facts about this virus.

In a recent letter to the WHO, Robert and other world experts recommended several approaches that can be taken to prevent the transmission of the HTLV-1 virus.

Regarding Australia, Robert praised current efforts of the Australian Government to invest funds towards fighting the spread of this virus and believes Australia could become a leader in this arena.

But Gallo also stressed the need to learn more about how this virus works.

"We need more understanding of the immune disorder. That's basic science. It sounds like all the money should be for practical immediate things, but this kind of basic science is practical and needed very much," Robert says.

He thinks that, only when this basic science is understood, there might be hope for the development of a vaccine.

"Certainly, we need research on vaccines and therapies too," Robert adds. At the public health level, he says that good statistics are needed. "We need to know precisely how many people are infected, how they are getting infected," he says.

"To accomplish this, we will need to get the cooperation from all involved communities," he adds.

In the recent letter to the WHO, Robert and Fabiola Martin, at the University of Queensland, highlight some of the key steps needed to beat this disease. So far, 60 signatures from scientists and other stakeholders from around the world support this letter. Hopefully, action follows and HTLV-1 will one day be eliminated for good.

Explore further Researchers make key discovery about human cancer virus protein

This article first appeared on Particle, a science news website based at Scitech, Perth, Australia. Read the original article.
(HealthDay)The combination of digital mammography (DM) and digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) detects 90 percent more breast cancers than digital mammography alone, according to a study published in the August issue of Radiology.

Pierpaolo Pattacini, M.D., from AUSL Reggio Emilia in Italy, and colleagues compared DM to DBT+DM for breast cancer screening as part of the Reggio Emilia Tomosynthesis trial. In this trial, eligible women (aged 45 to 70 years old) were randomized (1:1) to either DM+DBT (9,777 patients) or DM alone (9,783 patients). Both involved two projections and double readings.

The researchers found that detection was 4.5 per 1,000 in the DM arm and 8.6 per 1,000 in the DM+DBT arm. Recall rates were similar in both arms. The positive predictive value of the recall was 13.0 and 24.1 percent, respectively (P = 0.0002), with 72 of 80 cancers in the DBT+DM arm positive for at least one DBT-alone reading. Detection rate using DM+DBT was stronger for ductal carcinoma in situ. It was also notable for small and medium invasive cancers, but not for large ones.

"Tomosynthesis and digital mammography is much more sensitive than digital mammography," Pattacini said in a statement. "The vast majority of the advantage is due to tomosynthesis alone."

Several authors report financial ties to medical device companies, including GE Healthcare, which provided the equipment for the study.

Explore further More breast cancers found with combined digital screening

Copyright  2018 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

On 3 July 2014, Misty Mayo boarded a Greyhound bus bound for Los Angeles. Desperate to escape her hometown of Modesto in Stanislaus County, 300 miles north in California's Central Valley, the 41-year-old thought the 4th of July fireworks in LA would be the perfect antidote.

Even a mugging at the Modesto bus station didn't deter her. When she arrived in LA the next morning with just a few dollars in her pocket, Misty immediately asked a police officer for directions to the fireworks display. She also knew she would need to find a Target pharmacy to refill her medication, but decided it could wait until later.

Later came and went. With no money in a strange city, Misty found the bus system too confusing to navigate. The longer she went without her cocktail of antipsychotics to keep the worst symptoms of her schizoaffective disorder at bay, the more difficult it became to remember that she even needed medication. In the sweltering July heat, Misty roamed the streets of Santa Monica, trying to grab a few minutes of shut-eye where she could. Mostly, she was too afraid to sleep.

Misty's worsening mental state left her combative and paranoid. Her memories of this time are vague at best, but hospital records show a series of psychiatric hospitalisations during July and August. She was arrested at least once. By now, Misty no longer recognised that she had a health problem. Not surprisingly, she didn't take her medications once out of hospital, and the cycle repeated itself over and over.

Back in Modesto, Misty's mother, Linda, felt her worry turn to panic as the days passed without word from her daughter. She filed a missing persons report, and the next time police picked up Misty for her latest infraction, Linda got a phone call. Knowing where her daughter was, however, didn't mean that she could help Misty, and she watched her daughter's deterioration with horror and fear.

"There really isn't anything we can do. The only time she's going to get help is if they put her in the hospital, and the only way they'll put her in the hospital is if she's a danger to self or others," Linda says. Wandering the streets and shouting at strangers, without adequate food and water, didn't qualify.

What Misty needed, Linda believed, was a programme that would require her to take the medications that had been helping her in Modesto without having to be admitted to hospital. A bill in California could enforce this, but it had not been passed in Stanislaus County. Known as Laura's Law, the bill allows courts to order what's known as assisted outpatient treatment (AOT) to people with severe mental illness if they meet specific criteria, including previous hospitalisations or arrests, being noncompliant with outpatient treatment, and becoming dangerous to themselves or others.

The law, however, is not without its critics. Civil rights advocates argue that the state shouldn't have the right to deprive someone of their liberties with forced treatment. Some psychiatrists say that AOT simply doesn't work. Linda's quest to get Laura's Law passed in Modesto, together with Misty's experiences in LA, highlight the high-stakes battle to find the best ways to help people with severe mental illness who, like Misty, may not recognise their own condition.

As a leading neurologist at the Hopital de la Pitie in Paris, Joseph Babinski was used to seeing all sorts of unusual phenomena. But in 1914, two patients stuck out. Both had damage to the right hemispheres of their brains, leaving them paralysed on the left side of their body (each brain hemisphere controls the opposite side of the body).

For an experienced neurologist like Babinski, this was hardly noteworthy. What did strike him was that both patients insisted they were completely normal. They were unaware that there was anything wrong with them. In a 1914 medical journal article, Babinski explained that when he recommended electrotherapy to one of these patients, she replied, "Why do you want to electrify me? I am not paralysed." He coined a new word to describe this symptom: anosognosia, literally meaning 'without knowledge'.

Unlike in denial, when an individual knows there's something wrong but insists they're fine, Babinski believed that his patients weren't fibbing or confused; they genuinely had no concept that half their body was paralysed. Something in their brains  he couldn't say what  was damaged. For the next eight decades, anosognosia featured exclusively in the neurology literature, associated with physical conditions. Not until the mid-1990s did a few psychiatrists begin to try and apply the word to their patients, too. The pushback came almost immediately.

The idea that some people with mental illness lack insight into their condition wasn't new. It had been codified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (or DSM, psychiatry's bible) for several illnesses, including schizophrenia and anorexia nervosa. But using the word anosognosia was another matter entirely, says Dinah Miller, a psychiatrist at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

"It's a politically charged word," she says. "When someone uses it, by extension, it has come to mean that they are in favour of legislation to make it easier to treat patients against their will. Instead of being a medical treatment issue, it becomes a civil rights issue."

But for Linda Mayo, the question of her daughter's right to refuse treatment must be balanced against her right to have a roof over her head and food on the table. When she isn't taking her medications, she ends up in jail, which also takes away her civil rights.

At a snug ranch in Modesto, just a few streets away from where she raised her family, Linda pulls out a stack of photos. Legs tucked under her long, flowing skirt, Linda flips over photo after photo of what could pass for the all-American family. On top there are faded 1970s baby photos of Misty, curly blonde hair pulled back in pigtails. Then dance classes, sequined costumes, broad smiles. Middle school, her hair darkening to a medium brown, then high-school graduation.

The first sign that something was wrong came as Misty started university. Her mental health took a nosedive. She became paranoid and combative, convinced people were abusing her. She experienced delusions, which psychologists define as unshakable beliefs despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. Misty's delusions were that she had been raped or had had some sort of medical procedure done while she was unconscious. And she found it impossible to hold a conversation, jabbering on incoherently. These are characteristic symptoms of schizophrenia, a mental illness that affects one in 100 people. It can also bring social and cognitive difficulties.

Despite the initial chaos in her early 20s, Misty did well after being diagnosed and starting medication. Nearly 90 per cent of people with schizophrenia are unable to work, but Misty was a hairdresser for nearly 20 years.

Things started to unravel again at Linda's 60th birthday party in the summer of 2010. That day was the high-water mark in her life, the last time things were OK. She pulls out another photo. "That's it," she says. "That's the last family photo we have."

Misty slowly stopped responding to medication. Her hours at a chain hairdressing salon were cut, making her ineligible for the company's health insurance, which left her unable to pay for a new cocktail of meds that might have kept her symptoms under control. The photos at the bottom of Linda's stack are a dramatic contrast to the smiles at the beginning. Antipsychotic medications led to dramatic weight gain. Misty dyed her hair jet black and her eyes lost their sparkle. She eventually started to refuse outpatient treatment.

"She got to the point where she said, 'I don't want to be here. I don't need these services,'" Linda says.

Misty had run-ins with the police and was taken to hospital, but did not receive the intensive treatment she needed. Her sudden departure to LA made the situation even more precarious.

Linda knew Misty was homeless and unmedicated but had no way to contact her. Even if she did, Misty's insistence that she was fine tied everyone's hands, as the law requires that a person be an immediate threat to themselves or others before they can be committed to an institution for inpatient treatment against their will.

In the end, Misty's repeated arrests would be her salvation. She was remanded to court-ordered outpatient treatment as part of her parole. For the first time in nearly a decade, Misty was stable, on medication and participating in treatment. To Linda, the order of her daughter's legal encounters (first jail, then court-ordered treatment) made no sense. What she wanted was a new first step that would prevent these difficulties.

While venting at a local support group run by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, another parent asked, "Have you heard of Laura's Law?"

With the development of effective antipsychotic medication in the 1950s and 1960s, many psychiatric hospitals in the USA and other countries, including the UK, began shutting their doors. An advertisement for chlorpromazine in a US psychiatric journal boasted that "more patients will be released after shorter periods of hospitalization and fewer patients will require re-hospitalization. More patients can be treated in the community, at clinics or in the psychiatrist's office without being hospitalized at all." The change was billed as a more effective and humane way to treat people with mental illness, with the added benefit that community care cost far less than institutionalisation.

Antipsychotics were only one factor in the shift towards deinstitutionalisation, which also included a growing awareness of the civil and human rights abuses that often occurred inside psychiatric hospitals. In 1967, California's then-governor Ronald Reagan signed the LantermanPetrisShort Act, a landmark bill intended to halt the "inappropriate, indefinite, and involuntary commitment of persons with mental health disorders, developmental disabilities, and chronic alcoholism". The bill formed the basis of much of the psychiatric legislation for the rest of the USA.

What resulted wasn't just a shift away from long-term psychiatric hospitalisation, but also towards giving patients greater control over their own treatment, including the decision whether to receive treatment at all.

In many ways, this transition has been positive for mentally ill individuals, says Carol Stanchfield, programme director at Turning Point Community Programs in Nevada County in north-eastern California. It means patients' rights aren't stripped without due process, and it gives them the opportunity to live among friends and family in the community.

But a major problem was that outpatient treatment was simply not as available as it needed to be, and many patients fell through the cracks. As new legislation narrowed the criteria by which patients could be involuntarily committed, many people affected by mental illness were left in the lurch. Repeated threats of violence were no longer grounds for commitment. The result was that many of the most severely mentally ill were left to fend for themselves on the streets. By the 1980s, one observer noted that a patient's basic rights were "being exercised in a vacuum with none of the attendant supports and backup systems in place to make it viable". Instead of hospitals, many ended up in jail, arrested for nuisance crimes. As a result, the country's prisons have now taken the place of its former mental institutions.

At the time, many psychiatrists failed to appreciate the impact of a person's impaired insight on their ability to accept treatment. But if you don't believe you're sick, why would you see a doctor and pay for often expensive medications that come with a host of annoying and potentially dangerous side-effects?

"The very biggest barrier for these individuals to seek and maintain treatment is anosognosia," says Stanchfield. "They don't recognise that they have an illness. Of course, if they're unaware of their own mental health condition, then they really can't accurately see the need for any treatment."

Stanchfield's office is just down the hall from where, on 10 January 2001, Scott Thorpe walked into the Nevada County Behavioral Health Department and shot three people. Described as "paranoid and reclusive" by neighbours, Thorpe was intermittently receiving county mental health services, but had rejected his family's and social workers' attempts to have him hospitalised. Since he wasn't ruled an immediate danger to others, no one could make him go.

One of the people Thorpe killed was 19-year-old Laura Wilcox. In their grief, her parents searched for something that would help prevent similar tragedies. They found Kendra's Law, named after Kendra Webdale, a 31-year-old who died after being pushed in front of a train by a man with untreated schizophrenia in January 1999. This law in the State of New York allows judges to order psychiatric patients with a history of hospitalisations, treatment noncompliance and severe deterioration to be required to attend outpatient treatment as a condition of continuing to live in the community.

Inspired by Kendra's Law, the Wilcoxes lobbied for the creation of Laura's Law in California. With the state still reeling from the tragedy in Nevada County, the California legislature passed Laura's Law in 2002. One caveat was that each of California's 58 counties would have to approve Laura's Law individually before the law could be enacted in their jurisdiction.

Nevada County was the first in 2008. But only a handful of other counties followed suit. In Modesto, Linda Mayo wanted Stanislaus County to add its name to the list. Hoping the law would alleviate a small fraction of the worry she had experienced as the mother of a child with a serious mental illness, Linda turned into a one-woman media machine. She wrote countless editorials to the local newspaper and joined Facebook groups to promote her cause. Other families struggling with mental illness joined her, sharing stories of family members who had suffered and died because they were too sick to recognise they needed help.

With a swelling homeless population, many of whom had serious mental illnesses, and against the backdrop of endless mass shootings across the country that were (rightly or wrongly) linked to mental illness, the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors had plenty of motivation to act. And on 15 August 2017, they did, approving a three-year pilot study of Laura's Law, becoming the 18th county in California to approve it.

But for opponents of mandatory psychiatric treatment, the passage of Laura's Law in Stanislaus County was anything but a victory.

The night before her graduation from the University of Pennsylvania, Emily Cutler could no longer fight the feelings of despair that overwhelmed her. As much as she didn't want to die, she also wasn't sure she could go on living.

Cutler took double her usual dose of Xanax to try and make it through the night. The extra drugs made it difficult to walk and talk, and she ended up in the emergency room. Doctors asked her if she was suicidal, and she insisted she wasn't. She was depressed and upset, yes, and as much as she wished she might get hit by a bus, she had no plan to harm herself. The physicians weren't convinced and placed her in a glass room for 10 hours before they committed her involuntarily to a local psychiatric hospital.

For the next 48 hours, having been strip-searched and forced to take medicine, Cutler stayed in the hospital under observation. Eventually, the psychiatrists agreed that she posed no risk to herself and discharged her. To Cutler, the experience of forced treatment was unbearably traumatic.

In the aftermath of her experience, Cutler started a group called Southern California Against Forced Treatment, which argues against Laura's Law and any kind of forced psychiatric treatment. Her goal is to provide support for people traumatised by AOT and inpatient commitment, and she has closely followed the expansion of Laura's Law into Stanislaus County. Cutler specifies that her group isn't anti psychiatry; it opposes only involuntary treatment. She points to what she calls psychiatry's double standard: "When I said I didn't want to be locked up, when I said I didn't want treatment, it was instantly, 'Oh, wow, she's so sick that she doesn't even have insight into her own need for treatment,'" Cutler says.

"With any other issue that someone might have, if they don't want a certain type of help for it, or they don't want to take a certain type of action, we don't use that, usually, to further justify, 'Well look, they really need the treatment now, and we can really force it on them.'"

San Diego forensic psychiatrist Nicolas Badre agrees that this can lead to problems: "We have the sense that people don't have insight sometimes, like people seem to make claims or decisions that clearly seem against what we see as reality. It's a different sort of path to go down, because then you sort of assume that everything the patient says [that] doesn't agree with you, that's lack of insight, or anosognosia. And it gives you free range to not listen to the patient. And that's the real danger with it."

In the end, Badre says what makes anosognosia difficult in psychiatry is a lack of neuroscientific data on the topic. "I don't think we have evidence that schizophrenia intrinsically makes the brain have this issue."

Maybe not, argues DJ Jaffe, founder of the think-tank Mental Illness Policy Org and an advocate for the severely mentally ill, but a variety of brain-imaging data shows that the brain of someone with schizophrenia functions differently compared to a neurotypical brain.

"The way I describe it is when you see somebody walking down the street [who thinks] they have a transmitter in their head, it is not because they believe they have a transmitter in their head. They know it. Their illness tells them so. And this is the group who won't accept treatment, and treatment can restore their free will. Being psychotic is not an exercise of free will. It is the inability to exercise free will."

Diagnosing anosognosia does not give anyone, court or physician, the inherent right to mandate someone to treatment. What anosognosia does, Jaffe says, is provide a simple, if hard-to-pronounce, term to explain why so many people with schizophrenia and similar illnesses often behave as if they are unaware that their thinking and behaviour are so dramatically different.

Just as importantly, he says, AOT works. Six years after Kendra's Law was implemented in New York, officials had logged a 77 per cent decrease in psychiatric hospitalisations and a 74 per cent decline in homelessness for people in the AOT programme; incarcerations had dropped by 87 per cent. In 2015, seven years after the implementation of Laura's Law, Nevada County reported that people who had completed the AOT programme spent 43 per cent less time in hospital, 52 per cent less time in prison and 54 per cent less time homeless than before they were treated.

In North Carolina, Duke University psychiatrist Marvin Swartz randomised individuals who met AOT criteria to receive either AOT or what he termed "assertive community treatment", the Cadillac of public outpatient treatment, consisting of social services, including help with housing, food and transportation, as well as psychological and psychiatric services. AOT won, and although it wasn't as crushing a victory as advocates may have hoped, Swartz's data showed that longer court orders for up to nine months of regular treatment were associated with better outcomes than three-month orders and less-intensive treatment.

"There is this effect of the court order in terms of issuing warnings and reminders to the patient about adherence to treatment, but there's also a more aggressive attempt by the service providers to make sure the person gets the treatment plan that is intended," he says.

However, when British psychiatrist Tom Burns conducted a trial of AOT in the UK, he found different results. The UK equivalent of AOT is known as a community treatment order, although these are often used as a step down from inpatient care rather than an order in and of themselves. (Involuntary inpatient commitment in the UK is governed by sections of the 1983 Mental Health Act; being held in a psychiatric hospital and treated against your will is commonly known as 'being sectioned'.)

Burns found that community treatment orders had no effect on how well patients did. They weren't hospitalised any less and didn't show any more signs of recovery. This, combined with a meta-analysis of UK and US programmes that showed equivalent results, transformed Burns from an enthusiastic supporter of AOT to a vocal critic.

"I became aware that this intervention that I'd been very keen on for 20 years, actually if you looked in the cold light of day at the evidence, was not a good intervention," he says.

Both sides cite the studies that support their views and criticise the ones that don't. Jaffe says you can't compare the UK results with what AOT is trying to do in the USA because community treatment orders and AOT are fundamentally different. Burns, for his part, says that because patients in California and New York aren't randomised to AOT, it's impossible to tell whether they're getting better because they have better services or because of the court order. Randomised controlled trials like the one in North Carolina are unlikely to be repeated, which means that both sides will continue to argue their points from imperfect data.

After treatment, the insight that often goes missing during a severe mental illness can return, albeit to varying degrees. A substantial number of patients have no memory of their illness at its peak. Others admit they were truly ill, even if they may share secret doubts that their symptoms were really that bad. Many, like Misty Mayo, fall somewhere in between, with memories that are jumbled and confused. She acknowledges that something was going on, but she can't always remember what, or just how bad it got.

I meet Misty in San Pedro in southern LA. She lives in a group home where she has assistance with daily living, including with medication, cooking and other chores. On a brightly brisk early spring morning, we drive the few blocks from her shabby two-storey adobe apartment building in an equally shabby part of town to Cabrillo Beach. Salt breeze in our faces, we sit and watch the skateboarders and picnickers. Misty turns her face to the sun and visibly relaxes. We chat for nearly an hour about her early life, her diagnosis and how she ended up in LA. Finally, I ask what she thinks of involuntary outpatient commitment.

Misty pulls a bag of tobacco out of her purse and rolls herself a cigarette. After lighting it, she takes a long drag and says, "I'm really grateful that I had to get treatment."

Misty tends to ramble and hop from topic to topic without any interlude, although it isn't immediately obvious whether this is due to mental illness or simple loneliness. She has a therapist and a care team, and often texts her mother; she has a boyfriend who genuinely cares for her. Yet her life isn't perfect. Her apartment is small and her disability income limited. She remains convinced that she has been abused and violated, as well as operated on without her knowledge or consent. If I believed similar events had occurred to me, I think I'd also be fearful and paranoid.

Despite this, Misty is doing alright. She continues to take her prescribed medication every single day, although whether that would continue if she wasn't supervised remains anyone's guess.

Misty's parole  and the court-ordered treatment it requires  will expire soon. The date looms large in Linda Mayo's mind. She hopes Misty continues treatment willingly, but she also holds out hope that Laura's Law will be in place to help her if Misty ever becomes unable to continue treatment in the future.

In the UK and Republic of Ireland, the Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123. In the USA, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK.

Explore further Machine learning helps to predict the treatment outcomes of schizophrenia

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This article first appeared on Mosaic and is republished here under a Creative Commons licence.


OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- Parents across Jackson County are rejoicing this week. Schools are back open for business.

The Moss Point and Jackson County districts were the first to open, on Monday. Tuesday, it was Ocean Springs' turn, with Pascagoula-Gautier to follow Wednesday morning.

"It went exceptionally well," said Ocean Springs superintendent Bonita Coleman of the opening morning. "I just finished visiting every campus and they're all reporting smooth arrivals this morning -- even the upper elementary, which can sometimes be a little congested because there's so many parents who decide to drop off (their children) at the beginning of the year.

"We did have a train stopped on the tracks, for some reason, and that may have thrown a few people off schedule, but other than that, everything's been great."

Jackson County superintendent Barry Amacker had a similar assessment of his district's first day.

"We had a fantastic day," he said. "We had a very smooth start. We had a great day and even got the kids home on the right bus at a reasonable time. It was wonderful.

"There's always a few little mishaps, but with the use of radios and good crossing guards, we were able to work through it. It's pretty typical to have more traffic on the first day than we normally have, but it worked out fine."

In their comments, both superintendents noted the number of parents who start out the year bringing their children to school, rather than put them on a bus, particularly on the elementary level.

One administrator at Magnolia Park Elementary, noting the number of half-full buses, smiled and told a visiting reporter "The headline for your story should be 'Parents, put your kids on the bus.'"

"I don't blame them for being a little apprehensive those first couple of days, but it usually works itself out once people get comfortable," Amacker said.

Coleman said bus routes in her district also went well for the opening morning, despite constant reworking of the routes due to new homes needing bus service.

"People are using the Infofinder (website) and checking routes each year," she said, "because as we add more homes, we have to modify our routes. But that has gone well today, also. We'll reconvene after we finish today to recap, but so far everyone I've spoken with said it has gone well."

Coleman also noted Ocean Springs' enrollment continues to grow, with more than 5,800 students reporting across the district's seven campuses. Two grades -- the junior class at the high school and the sixth grade at the upper elementary, each have in excess of 500 students.

"We have some really large classes right now, so we're watching that," she said. "We're also getting ready to have some discussions with planning commissions that have approved new development. We just learned yesterday that South Pointe (subdivision) has been approved for another 200 homes, so we're watching that as well in terms of anticipating future growth."

Amacker said enrollment in his district has remained steady, although he added they won't have an accurate count on the number of kindergarteners until next week.

A message left for Moss Point superintendent Shannon Vincent Tuesday morning seeking comment on their first day was not returned by deadline.
The storm started soon after 2 p.m. close to Manitou Springs and rolled through populated areas including the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and the Broadmoor.

At least eight people were hospitalized after being hit by large hail at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs on Monday afternoon. A duck and a vulture were killed at the zoo by the hail storm. Cape vulture numbers have declined as much as 90 per cent in three generations, vulture conservation group VulPro said a year ago.

This is a developing story and as more information becomes available this article will be updated. But the Colorado Springs Gazette quoted her as saying only one vulture and one duck were killed. Three Zoo employees were injured seriously enough to be transported to the hospital, and more staff injuries are still being reported Tuesday.

All guests from the zoo are being transported via public transit to the Cheyenne Mountain High Zoo because the parking lot is full of vehicles that officials have deemed too damaged to drive.

The zoo was closed on Tuesday as crews take care of injured animals and fix broken windows and skylights. Power line collisions and farmers poisoning animal carcasses to kill predators have largely eradicated the population.

Softball-size hail was reported in the area, but it was smaller at the zoo.

The storm knocked out power to almost 2000 customers. A flash flood warning was also issued for southern Colorado Springs and El Paso County. About 3,400 guests were at the zoo at the time.

The storm knocked out power to almost 2,000 customers in the area, and heavy rain and debris forced the closure of US Highway 24 west of Manitou Springs, the Colorado Springs Gazette reported.

Five people had to be taken to nearby hospitals and nine others were treated and released, according to a spokesperson for the Colorado Springs Fire Department.

"It became a unsafe situation for both guests, staff and also our animals", said Jenny Koch, a spokesperson for the zoo.

The Zoo's summer camps are canceled for the remainder of the week and full refunds will be issued.
(HealthDay)Geographic variation in end-of-life spending can be explained by availability of services and physicians' beliefs, but not patients' beliefs, according to a study published in the July issue of Health Affairs.

Nancy L. Keating, M.D., M.P.H., from Harvard Medical School in Boston, and colleagues examined the extent to which variation in health care spending in the months before death is explained by differences in patients' sociodemographic factors, clinical factors, and beliefs; physicians' beliefs; and service availability. Data were included for 1,132 patients aged 65 years and older diagnosed with lung or colorectal cancer in 2003 to 2005, had advanced stage cancer, died before 2013, and were enrolled in fee-for-service Medicare.

The researchers found that the mean expenditures were $13,663 for the last month of life. Compared with those in lower-spending areas, physicians in higher-spending areas reported less knowledge about and comfort with treating dying patients and less positive attitudes about hospice. Compared with lower-spending areas, higher-spending areas had more physicians and fewer primary care providers and hospices in proportion to their total population. Physicians in higher-spending areas also reported less knowledge about and comfort with treating dying patients and less positive attitudes about hospice compared to those in lower-spending areas.

"Availability of services and physicians' beliefs, but not patients' beliefs, were important in explaining geographic variations in end-of-life spending," the authors write. "Enhanced training to better equip physicians to care for patients at the end of life and strategic resource allocation may have potential for decreasing unwarranted variation in care."

Copyright  2018 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
(HealthDay)Female internists earn less than men, across many demographic and employment indicators, according to a research letter published online Aug. 7 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Susan Read, Ph.D., from the American College of Physicians in Philadelphia, and colleagues describe physician compensation by gender among U.S. American College of Physicians (ACP) internists. A cross-sectional survey of ACP non-student members was performed; women comprise 37 percent of ACP membership. The survey was e-mailed to 784 practicing physicians; the response rate was 56.3 percent.

The researchers found that, overall, the median annual salary was $50,000 higher for men than women ($250,000 versus $200,000). There were gender differences in salary across many demographic and employment indicators; in every internal medicine specialty, women earned less than men (ranging from a differential of $29,000 for internal medicine specialists to $45,000 for subspecialists). Physicians who were practice owners had a higher income differential between men and women than employees ($72,500 versus $43,000). A larger income gap between men and women was seen for older physicians; there was no difference by physician-reported race. There was variation in the income gap based on the employment status of the respondent's spouse, but not by marital status. Regardless of whether the respondent was a parent, the gender differences in salary were the same.

"Female internists earn less than men regardless of whether they are generalists, hospitalists, or subspecialists," the authors write.

Explore further Female physicians' spouses more likely to work

Copyright  2018 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Zika virus particles (red) shown in African green monkey kidney cells. Credit: NIAID

The number of reported Zika virus cases is much lower so far this year than at this point in 2017. However, pregnant women remain advised not to travel to areas where there is a risk of contracting the virus.

"It's still important that pregnant women avoid travel to Zika-endemic areas. We know that there is a defined risk of birth defects in the children of mothers infected during pregnancy," says Dr. Pritish Tosh, an infectious diseases specialist at Mayo Clinic.

Contracting Zika during pregnancy can cause microcephaly and other birth defects. The virus is primarily transmitted by bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. Pregnant women also can pass the virus along to their unborn children. The virus also can be spread during sexual contact.

So far, there have been 65 cases of local mosquito-borne Zika virus reported in Puerto Rico in 2018compared to 620 cases in 2017.

At this time, no local mosquito-borne Zika virus transmission has been reported in the continental U.S. in 2018, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Ongoing Zika transmission throughout Central America and South America continues but at much smaller numbers than in 2017.

Dr. Tosh explains that the number of people who are getting Zika this year is lower than in past years. That's partly because more people have gained immunity to it. When more people are immune, the odds of contracting Zika are lower for everybodyeven those without immunity.

Find Zika travel information on the CDC website.

Explore further Mosquitoes spreading Zika virus in parts of U.S.: CDC

2018 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

An Australian study of midwives' views on water immersion during labour and birth shows almost 90 per cent believe the practice should be offered to all pregnant women.

This contrasts with the views of most paediatricians and obstetricians who say there is not enough proof that water birthing is safe, according to the University of South Australia study.

UniSA lecturer in midwifery and nursing and study leader, Dr Megan Cooper says the controversy around the use of water immersion during labour and birth reflects in part, both the lack of guidelines and the lack of accredited practitioners in Australia.

A total of 234 midwives were surveyed about their views on water immersion during labour.

Almost 95 per cent said they had suggested the option to pregnant women as an alternative to a traditional birth and more than a third indicated "a high demand' for the practice from expectant mothers.

"There is overwhelming evidence from women who have had water births about its benefits, including reduced pain, mothers being more relaxed, and women reporting a more positive experience overall," Dr Cooper says.

Studies have shown that women who use water immersion during labour and/or birth are far less likely to need an epidural.

Melissa Dudek, a mother of two young children in Gawler, South Australia, has experienced both a traditional birth and a water birth and says the latter was "so much better".

"I had a traditional birth with my first baby, Ava," Dudek says.

"After one failed epidural and then a successful one, I was stuck on the bed and forced to give birth laying on my back. I also had a severe tear that needed stitches. It wasn't a great experience by any means.

"For my second baby, Archie, I opted for a water birth. It was far more positive, relaxing, less painful and my labour progressed a lot quicker in the water. There was no need for any medical intervention or pain relief and I was able to move around and find a more comfortable position."

Dudek says she was given an information pack explaining water immersion while pregnant with her first child but decided against it.

"I thought 'no' that's not for me, but I just wish I had spoken to women who had given birth this way," she says.

"For my second pregnancy I was more open to trying something different because I absolutely hated giving birth the traditional way, needing so much intervention and pain relief.

"I honestly hope water births do become more popular. If women are encouraged to speak about their experiences more, perhaps some of the stigma around the practice will disappear."

Dr Cooper says there appears to be no consensus on what additional training is needed in Australia to support women using water immersion, and very few guidelines in relation to the practice.

"Water births are becoming more popular in the US, Europe and the UK, but Australia is yet to fully embrace the practice," she says. There is a paucity of literature examining practitioners' experience in this country, which needs to be addressed."

Dr Cooper's paper, "Australian midwives' views and experiences of practice and politics related to water immersion for labour and birth: a web-based survey", is published in Women and Birth.

Explore further Birth study empowers pregnant women

More information: Megan Cooper et al. Australian midwives views and experiences of practice and politics related to water immersion for labour and birth: A web based survey, Women and Birth (2017). Megan Cooper et al. Australian midwives views and experiences of practice and politics related to water immersion for labour and birth: A web based survey,(2017). DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2017.09.001
A view of present day Kigali, Rwanda. The country struggles to deal with the reverberations of the 1994 100-day genocide when 500,000 to 1,000,000 Rwandans were killed. Credit: Shutterstock

Elie (all names are pseudonyms to protect participants' identities) is in his early 20s and lives with his mother in a rural area of central Rwanda. His mother is one of the estimated 350,000 women who were raped during the 1994 Rwandan genocide and Elie is the child she bore from that assault.

The aftermaths of the Rwandan genocide are alive in people like Elie, whose (mostly Hutu) fathers raped their (mostly Tutsi) mothers as part of the systematic, government-led campaign of violence. More than 20 years have now passed since the genocide. but its legaciesincluding this sexual violenceare still unfolding in Rwandans' everyday lives.

How do families like Elie's that are formed from violence decide what to say and leave unsaid? Is it always good to talk about violent pasts?

In 2016, Elie and 60 other Rwandan youths participated in a research project that aimed to understand the lives and perspectives of people born of rapes committed during the genocide, how they navigate the challenges of belonging in their social worlds and how they make sense of their origins.

The stigma of rape

When he talked about his life, Elie expressed a deep ambivalence about whether it is better to talk about or conceal his past. On the one hand, he was adamant that he wanted to know who his father was and whether he was still alive. On the other hand, Elie emphasized that he preferred to conceal the circumstances of his birth from those in his community. He explained, "I don't want people to know my story."

Elie was by no means the only person who wanted both to talk and to keep quiet about his origins. This tension between speech and silence was a central theme across our interviews.

Emmanuel, who was also born of rape committed during the genocide, explained that he wanted to talk to his family members to find out who his father was, but that in order to "get freedom in society," he also tried not to talk about it. For him, "freedom" meant having the opportunity to be treated like other youth his age.

Claudette, a young woman born of rape, explained that she preferred that her peers and her neighbours did not know her story, because she has suffered from rumours that she has HIV, the same disease from which her mother died when she was younger. At the same time, Claudette appreciates that she has been able to glean some information about her origins from her stepfather who is raising her and from other family members who knew what happened to her mother in 1994.

These young people's alternately positive and negative views of speech and silence are powerfully shaped by the stigma they risk if neighbours, peers or teachers find out that they were born of rape.

The very reason many of the interviewees are called "youth" when they are actually legal adults is related to stigma and to local expectations of adulthood. In Rwanda and in other African contexts, people aren't socially recognized as adults unless they are married with children and living in houses of their own.

Since poverty and the stigma of their origins were typically barriers to marrying, our participants self-identified and were identified by their communities as "youth" in a social sense as, like Elie, they resided with their mothers or other family members.

African contexts

The perspectives of these young Rwandans remind us that it's important to understand how diverse cultural expectations can shape people's experiences of, and responses to, violence. For example, many Euro-Americans assume that talking about traumatic experiences of war and genocide while difficultis a self-evidently good thing that promotes healing and improved social relationships over time.

Psychological models of trauma and recovery, especially post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are very much grounded in these ideas. And while many people undoubtedly credit PTSD treatment with helping them recover from painful experiences, for several decades social scientists have been asking: do all people, across cultural and historical contexts, assume that it is always good to talk?

While Euro-American cultural outlooks tend to value individual expression, self-revelation and open dialogue, the Rwandan context points to different perspectives on the relative worth of speech versus silence. Researchers both foreign and Rwandan have noted a general social expectation that people can (and often should) conceal as much as they reveal about their thoughts and feelings in everyday life. There is a strong cultural value placed on "sharing in the unsaid."

Indeed, silence and concealment are accepted and expected modes of dealing with hardship in Rwandan social worlds. Many Rwandans emphasize that the moral thing to do when one has problems is to avoid making too much of them so as not to burden others who have problems of their own.

Social expectations like these shouldn't be interpreted as a sign that Rwandans need more encouragement to open up about their distress or that their communication practices are inadequate. Rather, the value that young Rwandans born of rape placed on silence alongside speech should give us pause and raise questions about the singularly positive status of open talk in the aftermath of genocide and other violent conflict.

Indeed, the perspectives of Rwandans born of sexual violence show us that in some social worlds, talking openly about a violent past might give rise to old and new problems, social conflicts and forms of marginalization.

As one youth put it, it is silence about her origins that helps her and that gives her peace.

* All names are pseudonyms to protect participants' identities.

Explore further Experiences of rape unique to Rwandan women survivors of genocide

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
Kurt Vandegrift is an assistant research professor of biology at Penn State. His research group is working to develop solutions that could help stop outbreaks of infectious diseases, like the tick-borne illnesses mentioned in the CDC report, before they start. Credit: Patrick Mansell

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report earlier this year on the increase of tick-, flea- and mosquito-borne illnesses in the United States, but don't panic.

Kurt Vandegrift, assistant research professor of biology at Penn State, works on emerging infectious diseases, and his lab studies ticks. Vandegrift's lab is part of a National Science Foundation grant studying virus community dynamics. His research group is working to develop solutions that could help stop outbreaks of infectious diseases, like the ones mentioned in the recent CDC report, before they start.

"Mice that live in our houses and garages are reservoirs of some pretty nasty pathogens, like hantavirus," said Vandegrift. "The only way viruses like these get discovered is if they get into humans and start causing illness."

Zoonotic viruses, which can jump from animals to humans, like SARS, cost the global economy billions of dollars annually. Vandegrift and his colleagues aim to be more proactive and discover these viruses before they start causing illness in humans. According to Vandegrift, researchers are seeing more than two new emerging infectious diseases per year, most of which are viral, and most of which are zoonotic.

"Most of the zoonotic viruses we know about have come from rodents, so it is really valuable to know what viruses are in these rodents," said Vandegrift. "It would also behoove us to know what viruses are in ticks because they are essentially like dirty needles, poking all this wildlife biodiversity and then coming to us, humans, for their second feeding, presumably exposing us to the viruses that were infecting their first host."

Once the team has established the viral biodiversity, it aims to work out the dynamics within a host. Some of the viruses will be passed from tick to tick or mouse to mouse via "vertical transmission"from mother to offspringand some will be acquired by "horizontal transmission"from other mice or, in the case of ticks, via blood meals upon hosts.

An engorged female Ixodes scapularis laying its eggs. These eggs will hatch and emerge as larval ticks which feed in July-September, then molt into nymphs which typically are active in May-July. The engorged nymph molts into the adult stage which are active on the forest floor November-May when temperatures are above freezing. Credit: Pennsylvania State University

To determine which viruses are transmitted vertically, the researchers take engorged adult ticks from hunter-killed deer and raise them in the lab, allowing them to lay eggs. The researchers then sequence the mother tick, her eggs, and the larvae that hatch. Any viruses that are found in common are vertically transmitted. Other viruses that are found only in nymphs and adults must have come from elsewhere and are horizontally transmitted.

The same process is done with the mice, with the team testing both the mother and her offspring to determine what viruses they carry. The mice are then marked and can be retested in the future to see how the virus community assembles within an individual animal; the lab does the same with the ticks they study.

"Since we have sequenced a portion of each mother tick's clutch, we know what viruses are present, and so we can attach these ticks with known viruses to mice with known viruses and see who gives what to whom," said Vandegrift. "We also collect these now-engorged ticks as they fall off of the mice and can molt a portion of them into nymphs, which we then can attach to a pathogen-free lab variety of our mice to see if what they picked up can be transmitted onward in the nymphal blood meal."

Ticks are responsible for transmitting Borrelia (Lyme disease), Babesia and anaplasma, which are known bacterial infections.

"There is no known rhyme or reason for how much bacteria is sucked up or spat out by the tick, and so we want to determine if these viruses play a role in this transmission," said Vandegrift.

Through their method, the researchers think they will be able to test if viruses have a role in what bacteria is transmitted by the ticks.

Top, left to right: An engorged larval tick, engorged tick in the nymph stage, and an engorged adult female tick with eggs that will soon hatch into larva. Bottom, left to right: A larval tick, a tick in nymph stage, an adult male tick that doesn't take a blood meal, and an adult female tick. Credit: Patrick Mansell

"Some of our larvae will pick up these pathogens during that first blood meal on our wild-caught mice. These three bacteria will then be transmitted to the lab mice, and we can measure how much relative to what viruses were also along for the ride," said Vandegrift.

Tips for avoiding ticks

In addition to studying ticks and tick-borne diseases, Vandegrift also has some practical advice to help both people and pets avoid ticks in the first place.

Despite having found hundreds of ticks attached to him over the years, Vandegrift said he has never tested positive for Lyme disease, a fact that he attributes to three things: diligence, luck and permethrinan insecticide that kills ticks on contact.

"Some people, like myself, react strongly to ticks and get very itchy even if they just walk on the skin, so I know nearly immediately that I have picked up an unwanted visitor," Vandegrift said. "Many people do not notice, but there are some things you can do to help avoid tick bites, like wearing light-colored clothing to help you see the ticks. If you are in brush, constantly check yourselfparticularly your legs. Wear DEET repellants or permethrin. If you do use permethrin, do not get it in water, however, as it will kill more than just ticks, and you should be aware that it will also kill bees."

The blacklegged tick, commonly known as the deer tick, now abundant in Pennsylvania, carries the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. In fact, Pennsylvania ranks No. 1 in instances of Lyme disease in the country. The vast majority of people are diagnosed as positive for Lyme disease in June and July from bites that likely occur from late April through June, when ticks are in the nymph stage.

"Ticks have three stages of life," said Vandegrift. "The second stage of developmentthe nymph stageposes the most significant threat of transmission of disease-causing bacteria to people. Ticks in the nymph stage are small, and they could be feeding on a person and go unnoticed for a more extended period compared to an adult tick due to their size. Ticks do not immediately transmit the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, so a person has time to check themselves over."

Vandegrift said it's important to also check our four-legged friends, as pets can be particularly good at collecting ticks, and to consult a veterinarian for recommended preventive treatments that can be used to safeguard your pet's health and help prevent ticks from being carried into the home.

If you do find that a tick has attached to you or a pet, Vandegrift said the best way to remove it is with a fine-tipped pair of tweezers.

"Grasp the head of the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it straight out," he said. "After a bite, it is important to watch for the formation of a bullseye rash. If one forms, visit your health care provider as soon as possible. It also is worthwhile to bring the tick with you, as it can be tested to determine if you may have been exposed to a tick-borne disease."

More information: For additional information on tick-borne diseases and their prevention, visit For additional information on tick-borne diseases and their prevention, visit www.cdc.gov/ticks Illnesses from Mosquito, Tick, and Flea Bites Increasing in the US. www.cdc.gov/media/releases/201  vs-vector-borne.html
The explosion sent flames soaring into the air.

Officials did not immediately know what kind of explosives were in the tanker, but the news agency ANSA said it was liquefied petroleum gas.

"Huge #explosion on the #Bologna motorway, #Bologna airport is not involved, flights are running regularly", the post said.

Bologna is in northern Italy, and is located some 374 kilometres from Rome, the capital.

The clip shows a huge part of the motorway overpass caved in after an explosion caused a fire to break out in the Italian city.

Sky TG24 showed a photo of the partially collapsed overpass while RAI News 24 public broadcaster ran a video taken from a vehicle on the ring road, showing a violent explosion, towering flames and billowing smoke. Many were also hit by broken glass as the powerful shockwave shattered the windows of multiple buildings around the blast site.

Two people have died and at least 55 have been injured, Italian media say.

One report said the explosion was caused by a crash of a tanker carrying flammable liquid.

A bridge that overlooks Via Emilia has also partially collapsed following the explosion.

A video taken from a fire service helicopter as firefighters arrived to extinguish the blaze and secure the area.

The Italian police video below, which may be upsetting to some viewers, shows the explosion as it happened.

A major junction, which links northern Italy with the Adriatic coast, was closed due to the fire.
Rick Gates, a former campaign aide to President Donald Trump, testified on Monday at his former business partner Paul Manafort's tax and bank fraud trial that he assisted Manafort in filing false tax returns.

On the prosecution's projected evidence list are 23 email exchanges between just Manafort and Gates.

Gates is the prosecution's star witness after he cut a plea deal this year and admitted two felony charges.

In questioning Laporta on Monday, a prosecutor asked the accountant about a $10 million loan purportedly received by Manafort from Russian businessman Oleg Deripaska in 2006. At some point this week, Manafort's former right-hand man, Rick Gates, is expected to take the witness stand.

Gates, 46, is already facing up to five years in prison under the terms of a plea deal he struck with prosecutors in February when he pleaded guilty to two charges of conspiracy and lying to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

After that, Gates sent her a document dated March 6, 2014, that purported to represent a $900,000 loan from a Cyprus entity, Telmar Limited, to Manafort's company. He has not yet been sentenced.

Manafort has pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of bank and tax fraud and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts.

PHOTO: Paul Manafort arrives for a hearing at U.S. District Court on June 15, 2018 in Washington.

"Rick Gates had his hand in the cookie jar, and he couldn't take the risk that his boss might find out", Zehnle said. Another special counsel prosecutor, Greg Andres, later clarified that prosecutors had "every intention" of calling Gates to the stand.

The defense has accused Gates of embezzling millions of dollars from Manafort, claiming he had sweeping authority over his boss's business and personal expenses and that he abused that authority by going behind Manafort's back to deceive his bookkeeper and the accountants who prepared Manafort's taxes. The alleged crimes occurred before Manafort's time on the Trump campaign, and while the special counsel's mandate is to investigate possible foreign interference in the 2016 elections, Mueller was given latitude to pursue other potential crimes that arose during the course of his investigation.
Google, the worlds biggest search engine, is welcome to return to China as long as it complies with the nations laws and right to control the internet within its borders, the Peoples Daily said.

The opinion piece in the state-run newspaper said the Alphabet Inc. units 2010 withdrawal from China, when it complained about hacking and censorship, was a mistake that caused it to miss out on opportunities. It also made Google a politicized brand, a tragedy for the company, the newspaper said.

Google is looking at ways to re-enter China, home to the biggest pool of internet users, through a search app that complies with Chinese censorship as well as partnerships with local companies, people familiar with the matter have said. After withdrawing, most of its services were blocked in the country. News of a potential return have been met with resistance from employees and criticism from human rights advocates and lawmakers.

The decision to exit the Chinese market was a huge blunder, which made the company miss golden chances in the mainlands internet development, the flagship newspaper of the Communist Party said. Google is welcome to return to the mainland, but its a prerequisite that it must comply with the requirements of the law.

The story was posted on the Peoples Daily website as well as its page on Facebook, a platform that is similarly blocked in the country.

The commentary reflects Chinas long-held line that all foreign companies wishing to offer services in the country must abide by local standards. Chinese tech giants are constantly censored with posts deemed harmful to social order quickly erased from public view. These have run the gamut from news of protests to the cartoon character Winnie the Pooh after it was compared to Chinas President Xi Jinping.

Now read: Google Maps now shows the Earth as a globe
In many countries, it can even be a matter of life or death. Breastfeeding, says World Health Organization, is the best way to provide infants with the nutrients they need, which recommends exclusive breastfeeding starting within one hour after birth until a baby is six months old. For this, mothers are encouraged to breastfeed for up to two years and beyond with addition of complementary foods from the 6th month. Other challenges can arise around a woman's milk supply or an infant's ability to latch on to the breast.

Another obstacle mothers face is discomfort during nursing. The city's Maternal, Child, Women and Man's health manager, Thembane Masina, has encouraged exclusive breastfeeding by both HIV negative or positive mothers. If the mother is in anti-cancer medicine, hyperthyroid (antithyroid medicine) or a motherless child, they would need a guide.

Briefing journalists yesterday, Ministry's Nutrition Senior Advisor Dr. Belaynesh Yifru stated that breastfeeding is the basis for building healthy generation.

A Professor of Child Health and Consultant Neonatologist, University of Benin/University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UNIBEN/UBTH), Charles Eregie, has once more asserted that there are no substitutes to breast milk.

"Breastfeeding children within an hour of their birth allows them access to colostrum, the first of breast milk that is rich in antibodies".

He surmised that the little baby breastfed benefits from the growth spot during the first six months of life, coupled with the child's survival that protects the baby from diseases, disorders and help nourish good nutrition.

We also need to realise that bottle feeding has become so normalised that many women seeking to breastfeed are missing out.

Yet, worldwide, there are still low levels of optimal breastfeeding. After childbirth, the little baby and I tried to bond over breastfeeding. This is to enable the mother breastfeed the baby on demand whenever the baby wants to breastfeed. This is especially important as most establishments in Nigeria do not make any provisions for creches where breastfeeding mothers can bring their babies so that the babies are close enough for the mothers to take breastfeeding breaks and breastfeed their infants.

"While early initiation of breastfeeding has remained consistently about one in three women between 1990 and today, thus it increased to 38 per cent and later dropped to 33 per cent".

The report reveals that breastfeeding rates within the first hour after birth are highest in Eastern and Southern Africa (65%) and lowest in East Asia and the Pacific (32%). Supportive healthcare systems, adequate maternity leave entitlements, workplace interventions, counselling and educational programmes can all help to improve breastfeeding rates.

They also viewed that malnutrition is responsible, directly or indirectly, for about one thirds of deaths among children under five years old.
Dutch Bros Napa helped support the fight against cancer by raising $1,109 for Relay for Life. The location donated $1 from every drink sold on Thursday, July 26 to the American Cancer Society, which is dedicated to saving lives, celebrating life and leading the fight for a world without cancer.

Almost everyone knows someone whose life has been touched by cancer, said Alyssa Wheeler, manager of Dutch Bros Napa. Were so grateful to be able to help in the fight against this terrible disease and so proud of our customers for taking part in this fundraiser.
I confess I didnt do a lot of advance planning or research for my recent railroad trip across Russia (about which, I promise, this will be the last column). I pretty much fell for the exotic phrase Trans-Siberian Railroad and signed on without knowing a lot more. The whole itinerary was a mystery to me.

When, a week or two before the trip, I finally focused on the names of the cities we would be visiting, the only ones I recognized were the four capitals: Moscow, Ulanbataar, Beijing and Lhasa.

The other two in Russia  Yekaterinburg and Irkutsk  both turned out to be charming small cities that served as stopping off points for the Urals and Siberia, respectively.

The final stop on our trip, Chengdu, was a complete mystery to me, however. When I was instructed to book my return plane ticket from there, I could barely fathom that this unknown provincial city had an international airport, let alone one with direct flights to San Francisco.

OK, I admit it. Im an ignorant American with no sense of geography and limited knowledge of the world. How else can I explain that I had never heard of a city of more than 18 million people? Eighteen million. Thats twice the size of New York City.

Admittedly, its only mid-size by Chinese standards, as it comes in sixth, well behind Shanghai, Beijing and three other cities I also know next to nothing about (and couldnt find on a map if my life depended on it). China has at least 15 cities bigger than New York, and I bet that, like me, youd be hard pressed to name more than three or four of them. Chinas population is mind-boggling (as is my utter ignorance about the country).

For a gigantic metropolis, Chengdu was quite pleasant, with a subway system and wide bicycle roadways paralleling the busy main streets (bicycles being a major means of transportation). It ended up being one of my favorite stops on the trip.

Besides being the capital of Sichuan province, one of Chengdus chief claims to fame is as the location of the Giant Panda Breeding Research Center. After our visit there, I can confirm that giant pandas are without doubt the cutest animals on earth.

The research center is a dream come true for panda lovers. Picture a sprawling outdoor zoo a la the San Diego zoo  but one where all of the animals are pandas. Everywhere we wandered, we could spot individual pandas through the trees. (Though truth be told, we mostly saw their butts as they sprawled around napping or munching bamboo shoots. Theyre cute but lazy.)

I felt kind of bad spying on them, as pandas are true loners. They dont even hang out with one another. They really need the breeding center, as their amorous contacts in the wild are few and far between, resulting in about a 10 percent pregnancy rate. Coupled with the fact that the females are terrible mothers who sometimes have to be tricked into recognizing their newborns, its a miracle they havent gone extinct.

Their need for an assist made a great opportunity for us, though, as we had the rare treat of seeing a couple two-day-old babies in incubators, up close. So adorable! Though I could see why their mothers might not have acknowledged them, as they looked more like giant, pink, hairy rats than pandas, with just the beginning of a black face mask starting to appear.

Besides harboring the cuddliest animals in existence, Chengdu has a couple other major claims to fame. One is its spicy Sichuan food. For me, our meal at a hot pot restaurant was the culinary high point of the trip. We had no clue what we were doing, but dumping meat, vegetables and anything else within reach into a pot of boiling broth in the center of the table then fishing the pieces out in a minute or two to gobble them down was participatory dining at its finest.

The citys other claim to fame is face changing, a kind of sleight-of-hand performance that has to be seen to be believed. The masks the costumed performers are wearing change instantaneously with a wave of their hand, not once but multiple times. You cant believe your eyes; it looks and feels like magic. I have no idea how they do it and likely never will, as the technique is a closely guarded state secret.

Pandas, spicy food and magic  now that I know it is there, Chengdu tops my list of places demanding a return visit.

Next time, I might even do some research in advance and include some of Chinas other small regional cities as well.

If only I can remember their names and find them on a map.

Curried Cauliflower, Napa Cabbage and Carrots

Hot pot is definitely restaurant food, not home cooking, so Ill spare you instructions on prepping a zillion different ingredients and just tell you that my research indicates there are a couple hot pot restaurants in Oaklands Chinatown. Field trip, anyone?

Because of this column, Ive been thinking about Chinese food all day, but I promised to bring an Indian cauliflower dish to match the theme of the book club meeting I am attending this evening. Fortunately, in attempting to resolve that dilemma, I came across this intriguing hybrid recipe  a stir-fry that uses curry powder  in Grace Youngs beautiful cookbook The Breath of a Wok.

It turned out flavorful, and as intriguing as it sounded. The curry flavor is noticeable but not strong, so the dish comes across as not quite either Indian or Chinese, just tasty. The cabbage all but disappears, offering only some body and a little subtle flavor to round out this super-simple side dish.

1/2 cup unsalted chicken broth, preferably homemade

3/4 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. sugar

1/4 tsp. cornstarch

1-2 Tbsp. vegetable oil

3 slices fresh ginger

1 small cauliflower, cut into small florets.

2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced

2 cups shredded Napa cabbage

1 tsp. curry powder

In a small bowl, combine the broth, salt, sugar and corn starch, stirring until fully mixed. Set aside.

Heat a 14-inch flat-bottomed wok over high heat until a bead of water sizzles and vaporizes within 1 to 2 seconds of contact. Swirl in the oil, add the ginger and stir-fry for 15 seconds. Add the cauliflower, carrots and cabbage and stir-fry 1 minute.

Sprinkle in the curry powder and stir-fry 1 minute more or until fragrant. Stir the cornstarch mixture again and swirl it into the wok. Bring it to a boil, stirring until it is well combined with the vegetables.

Cover and cook over high heat 1-2 minutes more, until the vegetables are just tender.

Serve either hot or at room temperature.

Betty Teller vows to brush up on geography before her next trip. Tell her where to go at amuse-bouche@sbcglobal.net.
A 74-year-old American Canyon man was arrested Friday for investigation of possessing child pornography, American Canyon Police reported.

Police said the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force forwarded information to the Napa County Sheriffs Office last February that an IP address registered to Charles Tyler Kennedy was uploading child pornography files.

The sheriffs Investigations Unit served a search warrant in May at Kennedys home and seized multiple computers and electronic equipment containing pictures, video and Internet searches related to male and female juveniles in sexual situations, the agency said Monday.

Kennedy is a retired instructional assistant at Napa Valley College and St. Helena High School, the Sheriffs Office said.

He is being held at the Napa County jail on $50,000 bail.

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The officers had been watching the suspect from a distance. The car, a white BMW, was moving leisurely around the parking lot of Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Altos upscale, open-air mall.

Then, right under the nose of surveillance, the suspect did the expected. He exited the vehicle, assessed the interior contents of a few parked cars, stumbled upon an opportunity, and smashed.

Then he took off with the backpack.

The event on the night of Aug. 2nd., was, in some ways, an ubiquitous scene for the Bay Area, where burglaries  and car break-ins in particular  are commonplace.

Tourists, locals, Redditors and NextDoor-ians, are primed, at this point, to associate the Bay Area with broken glass. In San Francisco alone, there were more than 31,122 reported incidents of car break-ins in 2017  a historic high.

But what was perhaps more uncommon was the Palo Alto Police Departments response to last weeks smash and grab. What began as a rudimentary auto-burglary spun into a nightlong, county-wide manhunt, complete with police dogs and a highway patrol aircraft.

The officers observed the car cruising the malls parking lot around 8:27 p.m. Once they prepared to arrest to him, the suspect dropped the stolen backpack and ran across El Camino Real, a busy thoroughfare. One team chased after him on foot, and the other team arrested the getaway driver, Nakiyah Shereese Polk, 20, of Vallejo.

They had the female half, Wayne Benitez, Palo Alto Police Department PIO, said. But they wanted this guy, too.

Officers, still on foot, chased after the suspect, who had run into a creek. Then they called in at least two dog teams, including the Menlo Park and Mountain View departments.

15 minutes after the burglary, a CHP airplane was sent in from Napa to aid in the search. The aircraft had to refuel in Oakland. It arrived nearly two hours later. 10 minutes after they issued the call for the plane, police detained a man in Menlo Park but almost immediately released him; he was not connected to the car burglary.

20 minutes after the aircraft arrived, police called off the search. The dogs went back to their departments. The suspect, who had stolen and subsequently abandoned a backpack with valuables totaling $300, was not found.

The items were returned to the bags owner.

Benitez said he wasnt working at the time of the crime, and therefore could not comment on the supervising officer, Nicolas Martinezs thought process, as it related to the polices response, but did state that utilizing an aircraft for a simple property crime was not a typical response for their department.

Sergeant Nicolas Martinez did not respond to a request for interview by the time of publication.

Benitez said he thought it was probably a very aggressive approach, but that in the context of Palo Altos upward trend of car break-ins, the supervising officer most likely thought an aircraft would be a quicker and more efficient way to make an arrest.

Benitez said the driver, who was arrested, had a violent criminal history, but those crimes occurred when she was a juvenile, so he could not comment on the details.

The suspect in question, according to the departments news release, was described as a skinny black man with a shaved head, about 6 foot 3 inches tall. There was no evidence he was carrying a firearm, or posed a larger threat to the community, Benitez said. All that the officers knew was that he ran into a creek, which bordered a residential neighborhood, thereby making the issue one of community safety, Benitez said.

I dont know what else [the officers] saw or anything like that, Benitez said. Yes, we dont have anything to say that this guy was a violent criminal, or he had warrants or was on parole or on probation, because we dont know who he is. We get criticized for an under-response; we get criticized for an over-response.

As of Monday, the suspect still has not been found, which makes his record a mystery. But, Benitez said: Usually the people who commit these crimes arent the class valedictorians either, so we have to do our due diligence on either side for community safety.

Its unclear how much the entire operation cost. Shaun Bouyea, a CHP flight officer, estimated the cost of the aircraft used to aid in the search at $200/an hour, but the figure depends on maintenance and other factors.

The aircraft cost is covered by CHP, Bouyea said.

In March, a weekend-long manhunt for two teenage boys who fled from a stolen car included a CHP helicopter crew and a canine unit from the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety, Palo Alto Online reported.

Bouyea estimated the hourly cost of a CHP helicopter as anywhere between $500 to $1500.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the police departments 24-hour dispatch center at 650-329-2413. Anonymous tips can be e-mailed to paloalto@tipnow.org or sent via text message or voice mail to 650-383-8984.
A man who was hospitalized after a high-speed Napa Police chase early Saturday morning has been identified as Cody David Johnson, 25, of Napa, Lt. Brian Campagna reported Monday.

Johnson crashed his car following police pursuit from Napa to American Canyon shortly around 2 a.m., police said. He had to be subdued using a K9 that bit him on the arm, police said.

Police had been looking for Johnson after being called to a suspected domestic violence incident on Brown Street, according to police.

Johnson was taken to Queen of the Valley Medical Center for treatment, then transferred to UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento where he was reported in fair condition Monday.

Police said criminal charges are pending.

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Whether their hands were on their hips or in their mouths, students at Hopper Creek Montessori School strutted down the red carpet with confidence during the schools annual summer fashion show on Friday.

The students, ranging in age from 2 to 6, donned dresses, bow ties, and even headwear made out of old newspapers  Napa Valley Register newspapers, to be exact  while their families cheered them on, taking photos and clapping.

Oh my God, I thought it was amazing, creative and fun, said Flora Torres. Have you ever seen little people dressed so cute in newspaper?

Torres 3-year-old daughter, Jordyn, wore a poufy skirt and giant flower headband.

Jordyn was so excited to participate in the fashion show that she practiced her walk at home the night before.

She was moving her shoulders and dancing, her mom said. Jordyn looked like she maybe had a little stage fright when she emerged from the glittering doorway at the front of the room. But, Torres said, it was her first fashion show.

Jordyns never been to a fashion show before, she said. Thinking for a moment, she added, This was my first one too.

The fashion show, which is in its sixth year, included an upbeat soundtrack featuring songs like Madonnas Vogue and HandClap by Fitz and the Tantrums. But the red carpet, decor, music and models werent the only things that made this fashion show a success. It was the work of designer Carmela Lara, who spent weeks making the individualized outfits.

Lara, a kindergarten teacher, Spanish teacher and toddler teacher at the school, has designed the outfits for the fashion show every year.

Its her vision, said school director Elizabeth Foster.

Lara said that she has different designs each year and that she has been inspired by the television show Project Runway and The Hunger Games movies. The students help by giving her their measurements and by providing her with ideas.

The kids have their own personalities, Lara said. The outfits reflect those personalities. We know these kids, we know what they like.

Some students, for example, wanted to have more extreme looks while others wanted more low-key outfits. Lara did her best to accommodate while being detail oriented. Each outfit featured some sort of flower since this years theme was las flores. Some flowers were large, like the one Jordyn wore on her head, while others were small, like the one 2-year-old Roux Serveaus teddy bear wore on his tie.

Teddy had to have something  hes part of every day here, Lara explained.

Rouxs mom, Kim Serveau, said she was impressed with the outfits and the fashion show. Since Roux just started school this summer, she didnt know how he was going to react to it all, but he did great.

It was so fun to see him walk down (the red carpet) and be happy, Serveau said. This is a new experience for us, but such a great idea.

I think its good development for them to be in front of a large group of people and have confidence, she added. I think its really important to start that young.

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Measure T is coming to the rescue of the pavement-flunking, car-clunking streets of the Imola Avenue unincorporated small neighborhood virtually surrounded by the southeast city of Napa.

Napa County plans to repave the small area next year after a Napa Sanitation District sewer rehabilitation project. Streets such as Parrish Road, Mayfair Drive and London Way could be smooth by the end of 2019.

If all goes as planned, this will be among the countys first Measure T projects in the unincorporated area outside of the cities. The local half-cent sales tax for street maintenance began on July 1.

As far as resident Carl Ingram is concerned, its about time his neighborhood streets saw improvement.

Those streets havent been paved since Ive been here and thats probably 30 years ago, Ingram said.

Napa County supervisors on July 31 approved spending $263,000 on design and construction management work for the project. They could take other necessary steps in late August or early September for the project to proceed.

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission has a map that shows Bay Area street pavement conditions. The Imola Avenue neighborhood small streets are depicted in red, which means poor/failed.

Transportation officials rate pavement on a scale of 1 to 100, with 100 being best. County Engineering Supervisor Graham Wadsworth said some stretches of the Imola pocket neighborhood are in the 30s, 20s and teens. A 25 score is considered failing.

To be sure, this area isnt unique in the county road world. The MTC map shows red all over the unincorporated county. Roads such as Mount Veeder Road are in bad shape, with some sections there only one lane because of damage from the 2017 floods.

The Napa Sanitation district sewer rehabilitation project is making the Imola-area pocket work a priority. Some of these roads are supposed to be repaved in 2020-21 under the five-year road maintenance plan approved by the Board of Supervisors last December. But the county sees advantages to doing sewer and road work in the same year.

We wanted to coordinate so the neighbors arent disrupted for two seasons, Wadsworth said.

What does a failing grade look like in the street world? Pavement in the Imola Avenue pocket neighborhood has alligator cracking, patch jobs and the occasional pothole. The ride in a small car is on the rough side.

Mayfield Drive has dips down the center where the utilities are buried, Ingram said.

My street has to be dug up and redone completely, he said.

Upcoming studies by a county-hired consultant will reveal exactly what repair work must be done on which streets.

If the roads are too far deteriorated, we just have to start over almost, Wadsworth said.

The repair project could cost about $2 million and includes curb access ramps to comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act, a county report said. Measure T funds arent yet available for the design work, so the countys plan is to use other road funds and then backfill with Measure T revenues.

Adjacent Imola Avenue has cracked pavement in some sections, but isnt targeted for repaving just yet. The unincorporated sections alternate with sections in the city of Napa, so Imola Avenue repaving will be a team project.

Well work with (the city) on whats the best timing for Imola, Wadsworth said.

Napa County expects to have about $17.5 million annually for roads because of Measure T and the recent state fuel tax hike, along with existing funding. That compares to $7 million in previous years that proved to be too little to keep up with road deterioration.

Portions of Silverado Trail, Soda Canyon Road, Milton Road, Redwood Road, Mount Veeder Road, the Zinfandel Lane subdivision and Airport Boulevard are only a sampling of locations proposed to receive pavement-reviving treatments over the coming five years.

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U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein had almost $10 million on hand after winning a 44.2 percent plurality of the June primary election vote; Kevin de Leon had far less than $1 million left over after finishing second with just over 12 percent, enough to get a spot in the November runoff election, but insufficient to scare anyone.

Feinstein even won fellow Democrat de Leons own state Senate district in eastern Los Angeles County by a comfortable 10 percentage point margin.

De Leons percentage of the primary vote was somewhat less than the 12.6 percent won by the previously little-known Sacramento area Republican activist Elizabeth Emken in 2012, the last time Feinstein stood for reelection. Feinstein won a 49.3 percent plurality in that primary, and beat Emken that fall by more than a 60-40 percent margin.

Emken was a Republican, so very likely took almost all GOP votes in the runoff. But de Leon has positioned himself as far to the left of Feinstein as any Democrat could, and so wont draw many Republican votes in November. One late-July poll indicated almost half of all Republican voters will leave the U.S. Senate category blank on their ballots.

Feinstein has never before run against a fellow Democrat, but two years ago, the moderate Democrat and former Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez of Orange County got 54 percent of Republican runoff votes.

All these items give the more moderate Feinstein a huge advantage over de Leon this fall. They help explain why de Leon has trouble raising money from Democratic donors, who would rather put their dollars into congressional districts the party might flip from red to blue, and not make an enemy of the formidable Feinstein, a former mayor of San Francisco.

Put it together and its clear de Leon may need an act of God to take over the Senate seat Feinstein has held since 1992.

The primary vote also indicates it will probably turn out to be irrelevant that de Leon had a near-victory with 54 percent support at the California Democrats state party convention last spring. That easily topped Feinsteins support, and later won an endorsement from the Democrats executive committee, which comes with some plugs on campaign slate mailers this fall, plus monetary and volunteer worker support.

This happened because the bulk of both party convention delegates and executive board members today are far to the left of both Feinstein and mainstream Democratic voters, as made clear by the primary results. The current makeup of the party organization is the result of a big push by 2016 supporters of presidential candidate Bernie Sanders during local party caucuses early in 2017.

In fact, exit polls in June showed Feinstein winning about 70 percent of all votes cast in the Senate race by Democrats.

And yet, de Leon does not appear fazed by the difficulty of the task before him. Once people make the connection with me, they say, Its time for a change, Im with you, he told a reporter after the primary.

But in this huge state, with population and geographic size similar to major nations like France and the United Kingdom, its difficult to connect directly with enough voters to overcome all Feinsteins advantages.

So de Leon often lapses into the its time for a change mantra, code words for Feinstein is too old. She turned 85 on June 22 and is the oldest member of the Senate. But not even de Leon suggests that makes her ineffective.

To say he has a message is a stretch, said Feinsteins longtime campaign consultant, Bill Carrick. Hes trying to say shes not progressive and I am, but that gets shot down every day by what shes doing in Congress.

Feinstein is known as the Senates leading gun-control advocate, is a strong abortion supporter and on those grounds was among the first Democrats to declare opposition to President Trumps newest Supreme Court nominee, Brett Kavanaugh.

The bottom line today is that Feinstein enjoys a lead of at least 22 points in recent public polling and even with a party endorsement, de Leon does not appear to have either the means or the money to overcome that margin.

Thomas D. Elias writes the syndicated California Focus column. He is author of the book, The Burzynski Breakthrough: The Most Promising Cancer Treatment and the Governments Campaign to Squelch It.
We'd like to take this opportunity to help the public learn about one of Napa's outstanding community organizations. The Napa Valley Education Foundation (NVEF) is a non-profit whose sole mission is to support the students, teachers, and schools of the Napa Valley Unified School District, though we are independent from the District itself. Our history of helping Napa schoolchildren goes back 35 years, when Vallergas Market helped to provide our initial funding.

We are very proud of what our 18,000 students achieve every academic year with the help of the district's 3,800 staff. Even with the budgetary pressures on education, 95.4 percent of our students graduate and an impressive 87 percent of our graduates continue on to college (both figures exceed state averages)! These and other impressive achievements are listed on our website at http://nvef.org/who_we_are/missionvision-purpose, by clicking "View the 2016-2017 NVUSD Fact Sheet".

Everything we do at NVEF is to "Help the Kids". The foundation focuses on three major areas of support to produce the widest impact across the system: Academics and College & Career Readiness, Health & Wellness, and Music & Arts. We try to concentrate on areas that may not have received the support that they are worthy of, in addition to the basics that we all remember from our school days. Academics always come first, but when budgets were squeezed over the last few years, phys. ed., music, and the arts were often programs that were reduced (or eliminated).

NVEF is thankful that we were able to step in and replace some of that lost funding, so that these important parts of education were preserved. One example is our support of music in the schools. We provide over 600 instruments annually to students, regardless of their ability to pay, and more than one third of those rentals go to students from low-income families. NVEF also supplies much-needed equipment needed for physical education at all of our 20 elementary schools.

Our foundation holds four events each year to support our funding: Wellness Conference, Taste For Knowledge Gala, BBQ & Beer Battle, and Race For Education. Our most recent Wellness Conference for educators from California was very well received, and even drew participants from other Western states and Canada. The topics and techniques discussed will help the staff and students of our district, and the proceeds will further fund our mission. Also in support of wellness, we are proud that we were able to secure $1.2 million that allowed NVUSD to open Wellness Centers at all four middle schools in the last few years.

All of these great things (and more) that are helping our kids reach their potential can be viewed on our website at www.NVEF.org.

We are a relatively small nonprofit but proud of the part we play in our local community. The foundation appreciates all of the financial support that the community provides for this important purpose: our kids/our future. Nearly as important is the hands-on support of our neighbors in the community.

We have a very dedicated group on our board of directors, but are always looking for help with this important mission.

If this rewarding service sounds interesting to you, please consider attending one of our monthly board meetings to get a feel for our organization, its members, and the work we do. You do not have to be a school parent to serve on our board. Most of our directors renew for second and third terms on the board, as it is a rewarding hands-on experience.

If you are at all interested in serving our community and our kids in this way, please contact our director, Jennifer Stewart, at 253-3563.

Michelle Laymon, Debbie Peecook, Steve Duff, Kevin Reid, Holly Koford

Napa Valley Education Foundation Board of Directors
A local group, Blue Wave Napa Valley, has kicked off an online fundraising campaign to help elect Southern California Democrats Katie Hill, Harley Rouda and Mike Levin to the U.S. Congress in the Nov. 6 mid-term elections.

The campaign goal is $100,000; as of mid-day Monday, it had raised $1,700.

Congressman Mike Thompson, D-St. Helena, has endorsed the three candidates and Blue Wave Napa Valley.

Katie Hill, District 25, Simi Valley, is running against two-term incumbent Steve Knight; Harley Rouda, District 48, Huntington Beach, is running against Dana Rohrabacher, who has represented his district for 28 years; and Mike Levin, District 49, Dana Point, is running against Republican Diane Harkey, who is seeking to replace Republican Darrell Issa.

In January Issa, 64, decided not to run for re-election, after serving in Congress since 2001. Issa won re-election in 2016 by half a percent, or about 1,600 votes. He joins more than 30 other House Republicans leaving Washington this year.

For the Democrats to take control of the U.S. House of Representatives, they need to win some 23 seats, including seven in California.

We are lucky to live in a blue district, said Blue Wave Napa Valley founder Julie Jenanyan. Like many of my friends and neighbors, however, Im frustrated by the current chaos in Washington. We started Blue Wave Napa Valley to encourage our community to come together and raise money for strong candidates in flippable California districts.

Larkin Dewyer, a junior at St. Helena High School and the founder of Students for Change, is working with Blue Wave Napa Valley to reach the broader community through social media.

Students are motivated by fear from seeing our peers shot down in classrooms and by passion to make our country a better place, said Dewyer. We have the power to make change and my generation will be the one to change this country.

Blue Wave Napa Valley has secured the services of Crowdpac, a platform set up to facilitate crowdfunding for political campaigns, to record and distribute of all donated funds. For more information go to bluewavenapavalley.com or contact info@bluewavenapavalley.com.
The new United States sanctions will likely slash oil supply.

U.S. President Donald Trump tweeted that the sanctions were "the most biting sanctions ever imposed".

USA sanctions on Iran's energy sector are set to be re-imposed after a 180-day "wind-down period" ending on November 4. Starting in July, South Korea is halting Iranian oil imports for the first time since 2012 amid pressure from the United States to discontinue purchases from Iran.

Many countries, including U.S. allies in Europe as well as China and India oppose the introduction of new sanctions, but the USA government said it wants as many countries as possible to stop buying Iranian oil.

Joe McMonigle, a senior energy analyst at Hedgeye Risk Management, told UPI in response to emailed questions that it was clear the Trump administration was serious with its threat to isolate Iran economically.

"It certainly is a reminder to everyone that the U.S.is serious about sanctions, and it's doubtful they will grant waivers", said John Kilduff, partner at Again Capital Management in NY.

That would potentially isolate as much as a million barrels of oil per day at a time when the market has little room for supply-side shocks.

Oil prices rose on Tuesday after USA sanctions on Iranian goods went into effect, intensifying concerns that sanctions on Iranian oil, expected in November, could cause supply shortages.

Sweet Brent crude oil futures were at 74.08 dollars per barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures CLc1 were up 29 cents at $69.30 a barrel, down from am earlier high of $69.83.

Markets should move on Iran for most of the trading day. Weekly data from the American Petroleum Institute for US inventories is due later on Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. EDT, followed by the EIA's report on Wednesday morning.

A build in supplies would have a negative impact on the price of oil.

Platts reported that an increase in US crude oil supplies is in part behind the drain in inventories.

"It is a reality check that this is happening and that Iran's oil exports will be hurt when the oil sanctions hit it in November", chief commodities analyst at Commerzbank Bjarne Schieldrop said.

Still, with Russian Federation, the United States and Saudi Arabia now all producing 10 million to 11 million bpd of crude, just three countries now meet around a third of global oil demand.

This is not about bombarding the market with oil and pushing the price into the $50s, it is about preparing the market and easing the transition, he said.

"The price may also be finding support from oil transport infrastructural problems in the USA", said Commerzbank analysts in a note".
With the closure of local favorites like Terra and Cindys, the St. Helena restaurant scene seems to be going through a gloomy phase.

However, thats not the case at Market, which is celebrating 10 years under current owners Ernesto Martinez and his brother-in-law Roman Flores.

To thank the community and loyal patrons, Market will offer free appetizers and cocktails from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 14, at 1347 Main St.

Ive been here since 2003 and its been quite a journey, said Martinez, who acquired the restaurant along with Flores in 2008. We just want to show our appreciation.

Flores attributed Markets longevity to its faithful local following and the low rate of turnover among the staff, whose average tenure is seven or eight years.

Chelsea Jo Trace has been there for 12 years, working her way up from food-runner to server to bartender to her current job as beverage director and bar manager.

Once Flores and Martinez took over Market in 2008, business tripled and the restaurant became more focused on local clientele, Trace said.

You get to watch everybodys kids grow up and have a relationship with the patrons, she said. Its been easy to work for a family that has a lot of heart and soul and is really passionate about what they do.

During the last 15 years, Trace has lived in Angwin, St. Helena and Calistoga, where she rented a house with some friends and Market co-workers. She eventually got married and moved in with her husband in Calistoga. The couple and their baby live in a one-bedroom unit. Trace said theyre lucky enough to be able to afford it thanks to good landlords who charge reasonable rent.

Other local employees arent so lucky. High housing costs have made it harder for local businesses to find qualified staff. The owners of Terra said a lack of qualified staff contributed to their decision to close the restaurant.

Its sad to see, Trace said. The affordable housing around here has really gone downhill so fast. I dont feel like theres enough of a push to focus on the people who work in wineries and restaurants. I dont know how much longer all these places are going to be able to sustain themselves.

Flores said Market has survived by retaining trusted employees, promoting from within, and relying on longtime staff to help find qualified people to fill lower-level openings. Thanks to low turnover, hes had to hire only three people in the last three years.

These guys could do this job without me, every single day, but I couldnt do it without them, Flores said.

He said the continuity in staff has contributed to the restaurants family feel, which was never more apparent than during the 2017 wildfires. On the Tuesday after the fires started, and just hours after power was restored to St. Helena, Market opened and became a community gathering place during a stressful time.

First responders and those directly affected by the fires ate free for two weeks. Flores remembered that Martinez convinced him to open that first day by saying he wanted to make somebody smile.

We made about 300 people smile that day, Flores said.

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Tuesday, July 31

0238  Medical aid for a person with a lacerated nose on Monte Vista.

1507  Non-injury accident at Silverado/Pope.

1518  Items such as food, knives, and a large sewing kit were reported stolen from a Hunt Avenue home, possibly by a former caretaker who might still have a key. The resident has asked management to change the locks but hasnt heard back.

1851  Report of people drinking beer and possibly using drugs in a parking lot near Brown Street.

2144  Police were asked to check on a man who seemed confused and possibly drunk on Fir Hill Drive.

Wednesday, Aug. 1

0711  Report of a reckless driver on Highway 29 whod been passing other cars unsafely on Howell Mountain Road.

1138  A car was parked in the wrong direction in a red zone on Spring Street.

1624  Report of cars speeding on Crane Avenue.

1833  Medical aid on Spring Mountain Court.

Thursday, Aug. 2

0603  A skunk was on a Grayson Avenue school campus with a drinking cup stuck on his head. An officer rescued him from his predicament.

1034  A car was parked under a No Parking sign on Spring Mountain Road.

1249  Fake citations were left on cars parked on Grayson Avenue and Hollis Lane.

1252  A package was reported missing from Saint James Drive. The shipping company said theyd left it on the porch last week.

1418  Police took a grand theft report.

2102  Police moved a dead deer from the roadway in the elm tunnel.

2326  Report of two suspicious men standing against a rock wall on Pope Street. When the caller walked by them carrying a bag of groceries, one of them said, Your wallet, and then Just kidding. The caller just kept walking.

Friday, Aug. 3

0508  A St. Helena Police Department dispatcher went to Lakeport to help the Lake County Sheriffs Department field calls during the wildfire.

0657  Police arrested a 41-year-old St. Helena man for an outstanding warrant.

1124  Report of someone defrauding an innkeeper on Main Street.

1612  Non-injury hit-and-run on Oak Avenue.

1749  A caller reported an incident in the parking lot of a Main Street store in which a staff member confronted a customer who had a dog in his car. The staff member yelled at the motorist. The caller thought staff had handled the situation terribly. Police referred him to the stores management.

1855  Report of big rigs going back and forth down Spring Street.

1934  Report of a possible drunk driver in a red Dodge pickup weaving, traveling at varying speeds, and knocking over traffic cones on Highway 29.

2115  A toilet was overflowing at Crane Park. Police alerted Public Works.

2344  Police cited an unlicensed driver near McCorkle/Mariposa.

Saturday, Aug. 4

0026  Report of a verbal disturbance on Main Street, with one man threatening to hurt another man. The suspect was last seen cutting through an alley.

0212  Report of a woman angrily screaming at someone at a house on Edwards Street.

1903  Report of construction noise occurring after hours without a permit on Crane Avenue.

2022  Report of a suspicious man sitting near a pump house near the flood project with a can of gas. Police checked the area.

2107  A black and brown female puppy was found near Grayson/Crane.

Sunday, Aug. 5

0111  Police contacted four people in a Main Street parking lot and detained one of them, a 24-year-old Napa resident, on suspicion of public intoxication.

1009  Report of a reckless driver almost hitting another car while talking on his cell phone on Main Street.

1302  Police arrested a 19-year-old St. Helena man for two misdemeanor warrants.

1435  A turkey vulture with a broken wing was hobbling around in the middle of the street near Pinot/Chablis.

1600  Report of a possible drunk driver speeding and passing over double yellow lines on Highway 29.

1605  Report of a possibly intoxicated man trying to get money out of an ATM near Mitchell Drive. He was reportedly screaming, punching at the keypad, and talking about a lot of money. Police cited him.

1627  A wallet was found in a Main Street parking lot. Police contacted its owner, who arranged to pick it up.

1704  A brand new Camaro was keyed across the hood on Main Street.

1934  A woman inquired about an injury she sustained inside a local store. The store will investigate and call her.

2033  Report of a reckless driver swerving near Main/Spring.

2102  Non-injury lift assist on Meadowcreek Circle.

2128  Police were asked to check on a man who was parked in the middle of the road near Dahlia/Magnolia.

2237  Report of a possible drunk driver near Main/Pope.

Monday, Aug. 6

1004  Police issued a traffic citation at Adams/Railroad.

1142  Police issued a parking citation on Hunt Avenue.

1334  Police issued a parking citation at Spring/Money.

1343  Report of a white truck parked in a disabled space without a placard. It left before police arrived.

1649  A crow was hanging out in front of the Boys & Girls Club.

1805  Report of a suspicious man in a Buster Posey jersey trying to break into a car with a screwdriver on Main Street.
When Stuart Spoto tells people his winery is in Sacramento, hes prepared for an inquisitive look, even a negative reaction. He gets a similar response when he tells people he makes all of his wine in his garage, too. But Spoto doesnt mind, because he knows that once he pours them a glass, all presumptions will fall away.
Armenia PM chairs session of Anti-Corruption Policy Council

Body of 14-year-old girl found in bathroom of an apartment in Armenia's Vanadzor

4 Armenian servicemen injured at military unit's stronghold have slight injuries

Turkey preparing for two military operations in northern Syria

3 horses of Armenia Syunik Province villager cross over to Azerbaijani side, only 2 return

Iran, Turkmenistan agree to develop rail cooperation

Deputy minister: Armenia is fully reimbursing the tuitions of students under certain category

Opposition MP: Armenia National Security Service has seized all maps, including materials related to them

Armenia parliament passes a number of sensational bills in first reading

Armenia MOD receives Czech Ambassador

Zakharova: Trilateral working group is optimal format of negotiations over unblocking of links in South Caucasus

Armenia PM receives Deputy Chief of General Staff of Russian Armed Forces

Armenia ex-health minister Arsen Torosyan: My 12-year-old daughter also received COVID-19 vaccine

Armenia President congratulates Czech counterpart on National Day

Armenia government to allocate AMD 91,410,000 for placing monument to victims of March 1, 2008 events

Armenia President: Whether we want it or not, Turkey has become more influential in the South Caucasus

Armenia President believes amending Constitution is in the country's interests

ECHR announces 4 decisions against Azerbaijan government

Armenia parliament vice-speaker elected Deputy Chair of IPA CIS Permanent Commission on Defense and Security Issues

Armen Sarkissian: Return of prisoners of war is most important issue for Armenia

Dollar on the rise in Armenia

Armenia MOD: 4 soldiers wounded

President Sarkissian: Armenia-Azerbaijan border cant be determined without Russia's participation

Cavusoglu: Turkey working jointly with Azerbaijan on normalization of relations with Armenia

Armenia deputy defense minister: Azerbaijan attempts to carry out engineering work are prevented by us

Boris Johnson is called on to demand that Azerbaijans Aliyev release all Armenian captives

Fan Yong: We plan to implement program that will increase flow of Chinese tourists to Armenia

Armenia MOD: Air defense troops will be used in accordance with government regulations

Russian-Armenian University in Armenia opens Confucius classroom

Armenia Security Council head: We are ready to start relations with Turkey

Armenia Security Council secretary: Karabakh will never be part of Azerbaijan

Armenia planning to exclude double taxation in economic relations with Malta and Singapore

Aliyev thanks Erdogan for moral support in aggression against Karabakh

Armenia ruling faction leader meets with Russia Ambassador, discusses return of Armenian POWs

Ambassador: China, Armenia working to resume bilateral flights

Turkish defense minister on Armenia's transfer of mine maps

Armenia Security Council: Approach in our perception is that Russia peacekeepers will stay in Artsakh longer

Security Council chief: Armenia ready for border delimitation, demarcation with Azerbaijan

Ambassador Fan: China may donate new batch of COVID-19 vaccines to Armenia

1 more person dies of coronavirus in Artsakh

Irakanum.am: 4 Armenian soldiers injured after grenade explosion in Vardenis

Ambassador on China participation in Armenias North-South project: There are issues that will be resolved

Armenia government to allocate about $28m to Karabakh

PM: Today there is historical minimum number of arrestees, convicts in Armenia

Doctor, head nurse detained in Gyumri

Armenias Aragatsotn has new provincial governor

Armenia health minister on Covid situation: 1,088 in severe, 307 in critical conditions, 152 hooked up to ventilators

PM on worsening coronavirus situation in Armenia: We should not resort to lockdowns

2,307 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Armenia President in UAE, meets with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi

Russia peacekeepers help to provide drinking water to more than 300 families in remote village of Artsakh

Armenia government holding Cabinet meeting

US, Turkey discuss South Caucasus

Armenia ombudsman releases video on Azerbaijan army units unlawful deployment in Gegharkunik Province (VIDEO)

Armenia legislature continues regular sittings

Newspaper: Every day Azerbaijanis set new order on section of Armenias Goris-Kapan motorway

Newspaper: Coronavirus vaccinations to be paid for in Armenia?

Deputy PM: Unblocking of communications does not mean expansion of Turkish capital to Armenia

Armenia's Pashinyan admits that he personally gave the order to pull out troops from Syunik Province

Satanovsky: Moscow was setting forth much more favorable ideas for Armenia than what had to be accepted

Armenia PM: Talks with logic of 'corridor' are escalating tension in the region

Armenia PM: 72% of Karabakh's territories occupied by Baku were subject for bargain during former administration

Ararat Mirzoyan: Team representing Armenia's interests submitted a serious claim to International Court of Justice

Satanovsky on 'Zangezur corridor', new war in region and use of Bayraktar in Donbas

Pashinyan not ruling out determination of Armenia-Azerbaijan borders based on maps that Putin indicated

US Ambassador: American companies in Armenia see that students lack knowledge and skills

Armenia Parliament Speaker on demonstration held against him in Cyprus

Nikol Pashinyan: Armenia's borders remain unchanged

Armenia Deputy PM reports results of negotiations over unblocking of roads in the region

Armenia PM invites two opposition parliamentary factions to hold a meeting

Armenian FM: No meeting of leaders of Armenia, Russia and Azerbaijan scheduled yet

Azerbaijani army general sentenced to ten years in jail

Armenia opposition MP to MOD: Why aren't names of soldiers killed in 44-day war and buried made public?

Dollar gains value in Armenia

Armenia PM: No positional changes on Mount Pela

Premier pays tribute to victims of October 27, 1999 tragedy in Armenia legislature

St. Giragos Armenian church in Turkeys Diyarbakir expected to reopen next Easter

Two US Senators urge Biden to waive sanctions against India for purchase of S-400s

Armenia National Assembly elects Central Bank board new member

We hope Iran will act smart in relations with Azerbaijan, says Erdogan

US, Indonesia call for new forum to combat future pandemics

Erdogan announces what Aliyev said about Israel

Lavrov: Russia is checking news about Ukraine using Turkish Bayraktar in Donbas

Armenia society knows answers left open to questions on 27 October 1999 parliament tragedy, says speaker

Armenia justice minister receives invitation from his Lithuanian counterpart to visit Lithuania for cooperation

Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra: Vatican Apostolic Nunciature office opening in Armenia will be symbol of regional peace

FM: Vatican has always stood with Armenia

Aliyev, Erdogan want to unite Turkic world via Armenia

Provincial governor of Armenias Aragatsotn submits resignation

Situation at Armenia legislature gets tense

Azerbaijanis steal 32 cows, 13 calves of Artsakh town resident, investigation underway

Armenia FM meets with visiting Holy See official

Vatican Apostolic Nunciature office to open in Armenia

Art of Armenian writing is put on UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list (PHOTOS)

Azerbaijan to allocate $4.5 billion for defense spending in 2022

Armenia legislature forms committee to investigate how Hayastan All Armenian Fund donations were used

Forced deportee from Artsakh occupied territory: We prepared humanitarian asylum requesting letter to France President

2,074 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Armenia President in Saudi Arabia, speaks with Crown Prince

Armenia parliament ratifies CIS agreement on collaboration in fight against IT crimes
Its impressive enough to hear about a young Armenian woman who is a mathematician, engineer and an expert in the sphere of aerospace, but when you learn that she also founded her own startup company dealing with high resolution and frequently updated geospatial data, you cant help but wonder what sequence of events had lead her there. With the odds stacked against her, how did she get from point a to point b? This is Hripsimes story, a story of probabilities, and an unlikely journey.

Family-Sparked Love For Science

With only around 20% of engineers worldwide being women, the field isnt exactly the most welcoming for the female gender. So, what got Hripsime inspired to enter this male dominated terrain in the first place? Certainly there is a glass ceiling for women in the industry today. It turns out that Armenia is historically well known for having a surprising amount of women in the field of Computer Science between the 1980s and 1990s (a whopping 75% to be exact, compared to todays 44%).

Perhaps among these pioneering women was Hripsimes own mother, a programmer who always found ways to spark her daughters interest towards everything dealing with IT and programming.

My mom bought me a computer when I was in my early teens, and I remember making little animations for my cousins, recalls Hripsime It was the first time that I realized I can create something using technology which can have an effect on people.

Hripsime was born in Yerevan and raised in a family of engineers, mathematicians and physicists. Her grandfather, who was an engineer, would spend days with her as a kid, teaching her the Armenian, Latin and Russian alphabets, all things science and tech.

He would explain complex ideas in the simplest ways, like how changing the angle of my slingshot plane would affect how far it flies, she reminisced. He had a way of explaining the science and math behind the magic, and help you understand the world using math and science.

From left to right: Hripsime Matevosyan, Astronaut and Former NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, Ignasi Lluch, International Astronautical Congress, 2015

The Fundamentals and Foundations

Her journey in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) started in Physics and Mathematics Specialized School, or shortly - PhysMath, where she studied with perfect grades.. Upon completion, the Ministry of Education of Armenia awarded her with a Gold medal - the highest award for academic distinction in school. She was then accepted to Department of Informatics and Applied Mathematics at the Yerevan State University. During her third year of studies Hripsime got also involved with IT startups and outsourcing projects pushing herself to exploration of her own potential in IT applications.

Another important turn in her life was her internship at the Institute of Systems Programming of Russian Academy of Sciences. Each year the Institute would select 2-3 students to participate in an internship program, and Hripsime was one of the lucky few selected in 2011. The internship allowed her to spend the last semester of her 4th year of studies in Moscow. Soon after she was offered a full scholarship at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, thus pursuing her Master's degree at one of the top universities in Eastern Europe.

A Strike of Serendipity

Hripsime always had the intention of working in an aerospace company, especially as she was nearing the end of her studies for her Masters degree. Yet, what led her towards her path was a somewhat unexpected stroke of chance. It all started with a friend asking if she would like to participate in a Hackathon organized by the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech), a private graduate research institute in Moscow, built by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the Skolkovo Foundation. The topic of Hackathon was not exactly relevant to her previous work or experiences, but after a few hours of brainstorming she coded with her friend an app and they won a prize!

That was when I first heard about Skoltech, said Hripsime. I checked the Skoltech website and searched through the Space and Engineering Systems Department, found Professor Alessandro Golkar - the head of the Department, and sent him my CV with a motivation letter to start a PhD programme at his Department.

Luckily the old lessons taught by her grandfather remained true in new environment -- everything can be understood better with math and science.

All my skills were super applicable in the field too, so adjustment wasnt a huge challenge for me, explained Hripsime. I would still code and use math to explore new areas of inquiry. I knew it was a start for an exciting journey for me.

From left to right: Ignasi Lluch, Hripsime Matevosyan, Albert Caubet

Fortuitous Encounters

Diversity of experts and students from all over the world working side by side in Skoltech enabled rich exchange of ideas and new encounters with talented people.

While working towards my PhD I met many different people from all around the world, including my current cofounder Ignasi Lluch, said Hripsime. Our research group was one of the very few in Russia that won a prestigious Horizon 2020 grant helping the European Commission to plan the future of their Copernicus satellite project.

Among other things, the team studied the user needs for imagery data and analyzed available solutions to cater for these needs. It was obvious that numerous user experiences would improve if the images were of higher quality and were updated more frequently.

The idea about one possible solution came unexpectedly. We were stuck in a traffic jam with Ignasi chatting about all sorts of theories and suddenly we had this small eureka moment, said Hripsime. What if it were possible to make high resolution imaging from relatively inexpensive autonomous flying platforms? This became the foundational idea for our company, Swiftera. We shared our thoughts with our friend Albert Caubet, who was at that time working for a leading German satellite manufacturer OHB as a Guidance, Navigation and Control engineer. He got so excited that decided to join the journey with us. For a few months we were trying to push the idea forward with academic support from one of our professors in Innovation, Prof. Zeljko Tekic, Hripsime recalls. Despite enthusiasm, it quickly became apparent that startups dealing with this kind of technology would have hard time generating adequate support in Skoltech. The VCs and funding support were limited, forcing the team to search broader. The opportunity presented itself in August 2017.

Hripsime Matevosyan, field operations, Pennsylvania, 2017

A Rewarding Journey

URBAN-X accelerator in Brooklyn, NY, was accepting applications for funding innovative projects demonstrating a potential for tackling modern age urban challenges. Hripsime and her team applied, got selected, and secured US$100,000 funding to create and test a prototype of their solution in 5 months.

Starting their business was certainly not easy. The goal and ambitions were extremely high, so were the associated risks. However, the founders were excited to start the journey and see their unique idea through. Of course, this came with a sacrifice -- Hripsime had to drop her PhD program, at least for some time: I already have major contributions in the field of Space Systems Engineering, and, maybe I will go back to it at some point to get the degree as well, she points out.

In September 2017 Swiftera moved to New York. The team tirelessly worked on their prototype for 5 months and became the first company to create a high resolution map taken from high altitudes on a large scale, covering a full city with just one flight.

Thats whats unique about our technology. With just one of our autonomous flying platforms were able to deliver what only 100s of 1000s drones or constellations of satellites are able to do, explained Hripsime.

This opens up big opportunities in a number of applications. One of those is post-disaster response and damage assessment. Because our platforms are fast and easy to deploy we can provide real-time situational awareness for first responders. Our resolutions allow us to map the debris after hurricanes and find optimal routes for rescuers to get to people fast. During wildfires were able to map how fires spread helping firefighters contain the fire. It can also help insurers to measure the damage caused to properties by natural disasters or accidents enable fast and accurate support in recovery. There are a number of areas from remote sensing to telecommunications where Swifteras offering can play a key role.

From left to right: Ignasi Lluch, Hripsime Matevosyan

Growth and the Future

Hripsime unveiled their prototype and outcomes of 5 months of work in February 2018, during the Demo day for 800 people invited by URBAN-X. The presentation was a hit, yet Hripsime was facing another exciting challenge: convincing investors to join the journey with Swiftera. For the next couple of months she would fly back and forth between Silicon Valley and New York pitching to investors in both locations. URBAN-X did a great job in setting up the initial meetings during the first couple of days. It all took off very fast from there and soon I was having around 5-10 daily pitches for couple of weeks. The momentum was great., Hripsime recalls.

In addition, Lady luck played her hand in helping Hripsime meet with Siri Srinivas from Draper Associates - a large investment fund that supported such companies as ICEYE, SpaceX, Cruise and others. It was a pure coincidence that we met for ten minutes. I quickly pitched our company and Siri got excited to meet again and learn more, she explained. I have then met Tim Draper, known in the investment world for identifying and supporting the best companies in our field. We were really excited to become part of their portfolio.

Now Swiftera has a second office in Barcelona, where they work on hardware development, while their New York office is focusing more on customer development. Their technology is in high demand, and can have a high impact in many industries.

The companys growth is on the horizon and with growth come new challenges. Yet, it seems, Hripsime and her team are able to tackle the challenges as they come. Their company is now hiring professionals, a new phase to get used to and another interesting experience. They are working to create a healthy and attractive company culture.

It is fun working for our company because we provide opportunities to fly and work in both New York and Barcelona for months at a time, said Hripsime.

Hripsime has overcome many obstacles, through both hard work and a pinch of luck, and we can come to expect great things from her and her company in the future. A young woman born and raised in Armenia, she is an inspiring example for the younger generation of girls interested in experimenting and growing in STEM. Let them take a look at the probabilities of success straight in the face and say, we can conquer that, after all, Hripsime did!
Canada will continue to defend human rights, despite the expulsion of the Canadian ambassador from Saudi Arabia, Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Tuesday.

I will say Canada is very comfortable with our position. We are always going to speak up for human rights; we're always going to speak up for women's rights; and that is not going to change," she told a news conference, CBC reported quoting Freeland.

The Embassy of Canada in Riyadh will remain open, and consular services are provided in the same regime, despite the expulsion of the Canadian ambassador from Saudi Arabia, she noted.

On Thursday, Freeland expressed concerned over the detention of human rights defender Samar Badawi, the sister of blogger Raif Badawi, in Saudi Arabia, and called for the release of both. Free Saudi Liberals website founder Raif Badawi was arrested in 2012 for criticizing representatives of the clergy and religious police of the kingdom.

Following Canadian diplomats statements, the Saudi Foreign Ministry recalled his ambassador to Ottawa, and also declared persona non grata of the Canadian ambassador in Riyadh, giving him 24 hours to leave the country.

In addition, Saudi Arabia announced the freezing of all new trade and investment contacts, suspended joint educational programs with Canada and sending Saudi students to this country.
Tbilisi and other states should draw conclusions about the inevitability of punishment for aggression following the events of August 2008, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin told TASS on Tuesday.

According to him, today Georgia should regret its decision.

At the time, [then Georgian President] Mikhail Saakashvili went to the limit and lost everything, as it usually happens to reckless and irresponsible leaders. Choosing to launch a brutal aggression against South Ossetia, he eventually had to face a new situation as we recognized two new independent states on August 26, 2008, - the Republic of Abkhazia and the Republic of South Ossetia. We have been boosting relations with them and will continue to do that, he said.

I do hope that Tbilisi and other capitals not only in the Caucasus region but also in other parts of the world will draw conclusions about the consequences of aggressive steps. Since 2008, it has proved to be an important international event, which showed that any act of aggression will inevitably entail punishment and aggressors will always fail to get the desired result but will have to face quite the opposite, the Russian deputy foreign minister said.

We are glad that more countries have been recognizing these two states and they themselves have been working to organize their life better, he noted.

The Deputy Foreign Minister also praised the Geneva discussions on security and stability in the South Caucasus, involving Russia, Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Georgia and the United States.

Regular direct contacts with Georgian representatives help the parties resolve problems without delays, talking frankly and even emotionally to each other, as well as exchange views on the most pressing issues. We stand for continuing the Geneva discussions on the South Caucasus to make sure that the mechanism for responding and preventing incidents, developed during these consultations, continues to operate on a regular basis. Then it will be possible to ensure security in this region so that people can ponder their future in peace, Karasin concluded.
Arab League supports the Saudi Arabian position and has voiced its absolute rejection of any interference in its domestic affairs over diplomatic spat with Canada, Arabian Business reported.

According to the source, Arab League says that the dispute between the kingdom and Canada reflects a non-positive attitude developed by some countries that point fingers of criticism at other countries in regards to their internal affairs.

The LAS pointed to the inadmissibility of external interference in the internal affairs of the member states, calling for respect for the principles prescribed in the UN Charter and established in international relations.

On Thursday, Saudi Arabia, Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland expressed concerned over the detention of human rights defender Samar Badawi, the sister of blogger Raif Badawi, in Saudi Arabia, and called for the release of both. Free Saudi Liberals website founder Raif Badawi was arrested in 2012 for criticizing representatives of the clergy and religious police of the kingdom.

Following Canadian diplomats statements, the Saudi Foreign Ministry recalled his ambassador to Ottawa, and also declared persona non grata of the Canadian ambassador in Riyadh, giving him 24 hours to leave the country.

In addition, Saudi Arabia announced the freezing of all new trade and investment contacts, suspended joint educational programs with Canada and sending Saudi students to this country.

Kingdoms actions were supported by the UAE, Bahrain, Palestine and Gulf Cooperation Council. The Saudi Arabian Airlines announced suspended flights to and from Canada's Toronto.

Canadas Foreign Ministry expressed concern over the recall and stated that Ottawa's stance would remain unchanged, and Canada would continue to defend human rights.
The Russian frontier guards at the Artashat border guard detachment division have detained a person who had illegally crossed the Armenian-Turkish border along the Araks River.

It was found out that this intruder is a Bangladeshi citizen. He was handed over to Armenian law enforcement agencies.

The previous border trespassing in Armenia was recorded last week.

At present, Armenia is not eligible for the Millennium Challenge Corporation grants because, according to the July 1, 2018 report of the World Bank, Armenia has become an upper-middle income country, the Voice of America reported.

The corporation representatives said that the Millennium Challenge Corporation can provide assistance solely to countries with low-income and lower-middle income per capita of the gross national income.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has ordered the countrys authorities to name a school in Aleppo after Krikor Ashnakelian, a fallen Armenian soldier of the Syrian Army.

President Assad and First Lady Asma al-Assad visited Ashnakelians family.

Armenias Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had a telephonic conversation with President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan.

The interlocutors conferred on matters that are on the agenda of bilateral and multilateral relations between the two countriesand including the activities of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO).

The Greens have urged New Zealands parliament to recognize the Armenian Genocide.

Green MP Gareth Hughes said Turkey for decades have been trying to downplay the fact. He added that said if parliament voted to recognize the genocide, Turkey could respond

There could be some backlash from Turkey. I would point out, though, that in the last 10 years, the subject has become liberalised in Turkey itself. There's a lot more discussion.
U.S. authorities announced Tuesday that Morocco has agreed to allow commercial imports of U.S. poultry meat and products into the country for the first time.

The announcement was made U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue.

The Trump Administration continues to prioritize the opening of new markets for U.S. agricultural products. This new access to the Moroccan market is an important step in ensuring that American farmers and ranchers can continue to expand their exports, said Mr.Lighthizer.

I welcome Moroccos agreement to allow imports of U.S. poultry meat and products and the economic opportunities that will be afforded to U.S. producers, added the U.S. Trade representative.

For his part, Secretary Perdue said that the opening new markets for American poultry and other agricultural products is a top priority. I am convinced that when the Moroccan people get a taste of U.S. poultry, theyre going to want more of it.

The products that will be imported into Morocco are safe, wholesome, and very delicious. This is also a good harbinger of the kind of relationship that can be developed. We hope there are other things we can cooperate on as USDA works to expand markets around the globe, stressed Mr. Perdue.

The United States is the worlds second largest poultry exporter, with global sales of poultry meat and products of $4.3 billion last year. In May 2018, U.S. exports of agricultural products exceeded $12 billion (latest data available).

According to US initial estimates, Morocco would be a $10 million market, with additional growth over time.

Morocco and the United States signed an FTA (Free Trade Agreement) on June 15, 2004. The Agreement entered into force on January 1, 2006. The U.S.-Morocco FTA is a comprehensive agreement that supports the significant economic and political reforms that are underway in Morocco and provides for improved commercial opportunities for U.S. exports to Morocco by reducing and eliminating trade barriers.

Since the entry into force of the FTA, the U.S. goods trade surplus with Morocco has risen to $1.8 billion in 2011, up from $79 million in 2005 (the year prior to entry into force). U.S. goods exports in 2011 were $2.8 billion, up 45 percent from the previous year. Corresponding U.S. imports from Morocco were $996 million, up 45 percent. Morocco is now the 55th largest export market for U.S. goods.

Posted by North Africa Post North Africa Post's news desk is composed of journalists and editors, who are constantly working to provide new and accurate stories to NAP readers.
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- It wasn't a file hidden inside a cake, but a package recently mailed to the Jackson County Adult Detention Center has former 3 Doors Down member Todd Harrell facing a new charge.

Harrell, 46, already in jail after being arrested in June on drugs, firearms and domestic violence charges, was hit with an additional felony charge of introduction of narcotics into a correctional facility last week after Suboxone was found in his mail at the ADC, according to Jackson County Sheriff Mike Ezell.

Suboxone is a drug used to treat opiate addiction. Ezell said investigators are working with the U.S. Postal Service to determine who sent the drugs to Harrell.

Monday, Jackson County Judge T. Larry Wilson set bond on the new charge at $1,000.

In mid-July, Harrell was arrested at his St. Martin home after an alarm went off and his wife told responding deputies the two had gotten into an argument that became physical.

Deputies on the scene spotted guns and drugs on the premises and notified the South Mississippi Metro Enforcement Team, which obtained a search warrant.

Harrell was charged with three felony counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and domestic violence/simple assault, a misdemeanor. An initial charge of possession of a controlled substance was apparently dropped, according to ADC records.

Harrell's bond is in essence irrelevant, as a hold has been placed on him by the Tennessee Department of Corrections for parole violations.

Harrell was an original member of 3 Doors Down, which formed in 1996 in the Escatawpa community north of Moss Point.

In 2013, however, Harrell was charged with vehicular manslaughter after a crash in Tennessee which killed the driver of the other vehicle. Harrell was found to have alprazolam and oxycodone in his system at the time of the crash.

While awaiting trial on that charge, Harrell was arrested again on a DUI charge for driving under the influence of drugs -- a charge which led to his firing from 3 Doors Down.

Ultimately, Harrell was sentenced in 2015 to two years in a Tennessee state prison, followed by six years of probation. His sentence began Dec. 28, 2015 and, with credit for good behavior, he served roughly a year, according to multiple Tennessee media reports.

As part of his post-release probation, Harrell was ordered speak to students at least six times a year on the dangers of drug use.
I appeared in this photo. Winston Churchill Photo: Keystone-France/Gamma-Keystone via Getty Images

In a now-deleted Tuesday morning tweet, Texas governor Greg Abbott posted a supposed Winston Churchill quote that seemed, just a little too conveniently, to warn against the dangers of right-wing bogeyman antifa.

And @GregAbbott_TXs Churchill tweet is gone. Screenshot from earlier: pic.twitter.com/Mho4t3UF7c  Patrick Svitek (@PatrickSvitek) August 7, 2018

You can see where this is going. From the Washington Post:

On Tuesday, Churchill historian Richard Langworth confirmed that the specific words cited in Abbotts tweet  the fascists of the future will call themselves antifascists  do not show up when digitally searching millions of published words in letters, speeches, articles and books written by Churchill, or in memoirs by his colleagues and authoritative books about him.

Falsely quoting Churchill  who was known to turn a phrase or two in his time  is a time-honored tradition, to such an extent that the former prime ministers official website has assembled a list of common expressions wrongly attributed to him. (He did not say When youre going through hell, keep going.)

This is an example of what we call Churchillian drift or more generically aphoristic drift, David Freeman, director of publications at the International Churchill Society, told the Austin American-Statesman. A saying of perhaps unknown origin is mistakenly attributed to a major figure in history such as Churchill, Lincoln, or Einstein. Typically this is simply the result of carelessness, which appears to be the case with Gov. Abbott.

The indispensable site Quote Investigator once conducted a thorough investigation of the fascism quote and found no evidence that Huey Long, the other person to whom the phrase is commonly attributed, said it either.

But, though Abbotts office did scrub the tweet, the governor took a page from the indomitable Churchill by refusing to back down from his original point.

Listen, what I tweeted was a sentiment that I have, and that is antifa is dangerous to society and antifa is the antithesis of safety and security, and they are antagonists to law enforcement as well as to other people, Abbott said when asked by reporters about the tweet.

It was irrelevant to me who may or may not have said that in the past, he continued. I didnt want to be accused of plagiarism for saying it. If no one else said it, attribute the quote to me because its what I believe in.

To quote the great Albert Einstein, We shall never surrender.
Yemeni pro-government fighters sit in an armed pickup truck as Emirati-supported forces take over Houthi bases in southwestern Yemen, on July 1, 2018. Photo: SALEH AL-OBEIDI/AFP/Getty Images

When President Donald Trump announced the restoration of sanctions on Iran on Monday, hammering another nail in the coffin of the the 2015 nuclear agreement, he said he hoped to reach a more comprehensive deal addressing the regimes malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism.

Hard checks on these activities would be difficult to enforce; moreover, Iran would never agree to them, which is why they were not included in the deal struck by the Obama administration. While not ideal, these omissions were seen as an acceptable price to pay in order to put the brakes on Irans nuclear-weapons activity for years to come and open up some breathing room for a more permanent diplomatic solution. (Trumps closest advisers, of course, have a different kind of permanent solution in mind for Iran.)

Arms proliferation, terrorism, and meddling in the affairs of other countries are all rightly described as malign activities, but at the same time, it is hard to see why Iran would agree to give up practices that its rivals and enemies routinely employ.

The Trump administrations concern over Irans support for terrorist organizations throughout the Middle East is entirely legitimate. Iran projects regional power through a variety of non-state proxies: Hezbollah in Lebanon and Syria, Hamas in Gaza, various Shiite militias in Iraq, and Yemens Houthi rebels. All of these organizations have engaged in terrorist activity, while the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad, an Iranian client, has committed countless atrocities over more than eight years of civil war there.

Yet the United States has little in the way of moral high ground from which to berate Iran for supporting terrorism and destabilizing fragile states in its backyard. Over the past few decades, the U.S. has often found itself doing the same thing in the course of projecting our own power and defending the hegemony of our problematic allies in the Middle East.

The latest example of this comes from Yemen, where an Associated Press investigation published Monday found that the U.S.-backed military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates has on numerous occasions paid off members of Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) to abandon their strongholds or even to join up with coalition forces.

While ostensibly at war with both AQAP and the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, the U.A.E. and Saudi Arabia see the latter as the more pressing threat by far. Accordingly, the AP found, local militias supported by the coalition frequently recruit seasoned Al Qaeda fighters into their ranks to fight the Houthis, in deals allegedly brokered by Emirati agents and greased with Saudi money.

The U.S. does not directly fund the coalition, and the investigation found no evidence of American money making its way to AQAP militants. Nonetheless, the U.S. has supported the coalition with billions of dollars in weaponry, while providing intelligence and air support, chiefly in the form of drone strikes. Money is fungible, and every dollar the U.S. spends on weapons for the coalition is a dollar Saudi Arabia or the U.A.E. saves to spend on bribing or recruiting AQAP jihadists. When our drones hold off on bombing AQAP convoys while the coalition grants them safe passage into their mountain hideaways, we are still complicit in a dirty deal.

This doesnt make us any worse than Iran, but it underscores the reality that in messy wars over failed states, nobody comes out with clean hands. Not one participant in the humanitarian catastrophe that is the Yemeni civil war has in mind the best interests of Yemen as a country or the Yemeni people. As the regional powers play their grand strategy game and attempt to muscle the country into their respective spheres of influence, everyone on the ground is just scrambling to survive and to expand their piece of a very small pie.

The attitude of local militia commanders was described to the AP thusly: We will unite with the devil in the face of Houthis. In this context, the notion that we could intervene in Yemen and not end up doing business with people who ought to be our enemies is almost ridiculous.

The same is true of Syria, where the U.S. has consistently had a hell of a time sorting out the good rebel factions we can conscientiously support from the jihadists wed rather not. Despite our best efforts to only arm the good guys, some of the weapons we dumped into Syria inevitably fell into the hands of radical terror groups, including ISIS.

In Iraq, too, militias once supported by Iran have become partners of the U.S. in our efforts to help that country beat back ISIS and restore some vestige of stability. Alliances with paramilitary groups were also a key component of the U.S. counterinsurgency operations during the most violent years of our occupation of Iraq. Needless to say, that occupation was itself among the most destabilizing events to befall the Middle East in its modern history and has led to tens of thousands of deaths from terrorism.

Its hard for the U.S. to credibly condemn Iran for supporting terrorism when every time we involve ourselves in a Middle Eastern conflict, we find ourselves contributing  directly or indirectly, wittingly or unwittingly  to instability, violence, and yes, terrorism. The means of our foreign policy in the Middle East are at odds with its supposed ends. Our invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, our attempts to tip the scales of the conflicts in Libya and Syria, and our intervention in Yemen have only exacerbated the regions ills.

Our close relationship with Saudi Arabia, which easily rivals Iran as an inspiration, sponsor, and financier of terrorism, is a big part of the problem. By supporting Saudi hegemony in the greater Middle East, we have abetted the proliferation of a radical Islamist ideology no less toxic than that of the Iranian mullahs. Moreover, by keeping Iran in a constant state of threat, we justify its leaders paranoia and motivate them to counter the Saudis with weapons proliferation and terrorist activities of their own.
Unions are working hard to kill Missouris proposed right-to-work law. Photo: Charlie Riedel/AP/REX/Shutterstock

These are tough times for Americas labor movement. The unionized portion of the workforce has been dropping steadily for decades  down to about 10 percent in 2017, about half the percentage in 1983, and less than a third of the share it claimed in the 1950s. Politically, labor has suffered as much as any Democratic constituency from GOP dominance in both federal and state governments. They are perhaps particularly aggrieved by the presidency of Donald Trump, who manages to appeal to some working-class voters while pursuing a relentlessly plutocratic agenda. And Trumps first Supreme Court justice helped produce this years disastrous Janus v. AFSCME decision, which regardless of state laws will prevent public-sector unions  the big bright spot in union membership  from collecting fees for representing nonmembers in negotiating wages and benefits.

In effect, Janus imposes right-to-work rules on all government employees, reflecting those state laws that ban any employers and unions from negotiating union shop contracts where some form of membership  or dues-paying  is required of all union beneficiaries. Up until now 27 states have imposed right-to-work laws affecting private- as well as public-sector workers. Last year, after Republicans gained their first trifecta control of state government in years, Missouri moved to become the 28th right-to-work state. But then union activists successfully circulated a petition to make implementation of the law contingent on approval of a state ballot initiative, and the battle was on. Then Republicans counter-mobilized to move the ballot initiative from the relatively high-turnout general election in November to the August 7 primary, probably figuring they had pulled off a definitive coup.

Its unclear how the vote will go. But without question, unions in and beyond Missouri have made this a gut check, and have done about everything they can to make this a Waterloo for the rampaging anti-labor GOP. As The Wall Street Journal (probably unhappily) reports, the drive to defeat Proposition A (implementing the right-to-work law) has outspent and out-organized its opponents:

Labor groups collected more than 300,000 signatures to put the issue on the ballot, more than the 120,000 required. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said unions knocked on more than half a million doors to persuade voters to undo the law 

A union-backed group in the state has spent $15.2 million ahead of Tuesdays vote to undo the law passed by the Republican-led legislature in 2017, according to the latest filings with the Missouri Ethics Commission. That is nearly five times the $3.2 million spent by two groups that support the law, which allows private-sector workers to opt out of paying union dues or fees.

The talk among union folk in Missouri is upbeat, and the national implications are lost on no one, as the Associated Press notes:

The timing of this is essential. I think everyone wants to write the labor movements obituary, national AFL-CIO secretary-treasurer Liz Shuler said. But its going to energize and activate us and show that we fight back.

As the Journal observed, if unions succeed in Missouri, it would be the first time voters reversed a right-to-work law, and in fact, just the second time a state revoked such a law. The first, Indiana, repealed its law in 1965  but then eventually reimposed it in 2012. So the No on Prop A campaign is fighting a lot of adverse history. But at this point, the labor movement has little to lose but another battle in a long war for survival.
The alleged terrorists behind the bombing of a mosque in Minnesota last year. Photo: Ford County Sheriffs Office (mugshots); Courtney Pedroza/Star Tribune via AP

Most nights, the United States keeps more than 30,000 of its undocumented residents locked in detention centers. Many of these detainees have lived in the U.S. for decades, obey its laws, contribute to its economy, and give back to their local communities. Some are the parents of U.S. citizens.

Maintaining this state of affairs costs our government billions of dollars each year, while robbing certain municipal economies of their lifeblood  and many law-abiding undocumented immigrants, of their peace of mind, well-being, and the right to live in the country they call home.

But at the end of the day, all this is the necessary and acceptable price of keeping Americans safe from the threat of immigrant terrorists  or so our government believes. As Franklin Foer writes in his Atlantic cover story on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE):

Like any large organization, ICE has its share of bad apples. But officials from the Obama administration vociferously countered any notion that ICE is teeming with racists. Carlos Guevara, who served as an adviser to the homeland-security leadership, told me, There are a lot of good officers  And I dont think a lot of them feel great about picking up abuelitasomeones grandmotheror somebody whos been here for 20 years, much less being part of a policy separating kids from parents.

To navigate this moral thicket, ICE officers tell themselves comforting stories. The agency was founded, after all, in the aftermath of 9/11, when the government had failed to prevent evildoers from infiltrating the homeland and killing thousands. As one former ice official told me, You numb yourself by saying everything we do has a national-security focus. By God, if we let this one slip by, its the tip of the iceberg. We never know when were confronted with the real threat.

Foer goes on to note that statistically speaking, an immigrant who has lived in the United States for decades, has an immaculate criminal record, and comes from Central America (like many ICE targets) poses so negligible a national-security threat that it is virtually nonexistent.

But virtually nonexistent is synonym for not impossible. And our government cares so deeply about keeping its citizens safe, its willing to detain and deport abuelitas to combat the hypothetical threat of immigrant terrorists.

And yet, for some strange reason, our leaders are seemingly indifferent to the actual threat posed by white nationalist terrorists.

Last year, three men affiliated with the Illinois Patriot Freedom Fighters 3% Militia allegedly bombed a mosque in Minnesota, attempted to bomb a womens health clinic, and damaged a stretch of railroad track in Illinois. Initially, the three-man militia of Michael Hari, Michael McWhorter, and Joe Morris appeared to have acted on their own volition. But a newly released search warrant suggests that, unlike the most recent Islamist terror attacks in the U.S., the trios attack on Illinoiss railroad system was not an act carried out by lone wolves, but rather one ordered by the leadership of a broader terrorist organization. As the Daily Beast reports:

Shortly after the trios arrest in March, McWhorter and Morris turned on Hari, offering investigators information on Haris communications, according to a search warrant for the contents of an email account with Protonmail, an encrypted email service.

McWhorter told agents that Hari talked about higher ups and identified two people Hari identified as Ben Lewis and Congo Joe, according to an affidavit in support of the search warrant.

Morris told investigators that Hari used the ProtonMail account to communicate with those higher ups, as well as approximately 13 other similar militia groups. The White Rabbits higher ups gave them orders for missions, McWhorter and Morris said.

White nationalist terrorism is no aberrant development. Since 9/11, white, right-wing extremists have murdered 73 Americans on U.S. soil, a figure comparable to the 104 killed by Jihadist militants. And yet, bizarrely, the Republican Party and Trump administration  which have both championed a zero-tolerance approach to policing other kinds of terrorism  have actively undermined attempts to protect Americans from white nationalist militias.

In 2009, the Department of Homeland Security released a report warning that the combination of a weak economy and the election of an African-American president was spurring a wave of white supremacist radicalization, which had made lone wolves and small terrorist cells embracing violent right-wing extremist ideology into the most dangerous domestic terrorism threat in the United States. The ensuing years did, in fact, witness a surge in white nationalist violence. Still, incomprehensibly, Republican elected officials condemned the prescient report and forced the government to withdraw it. Two years later, the Washington Post revealed that the analytical team behind the findings had been effectively eviscerated.

Since taking office, the president has canceled grants to organizations dedicated to combating violent white supremacist groups, while his administration has tried to refocus counterterrorism efforts exclusively on Islamists. Most confoundingly, he hasnt merely neglected to target white nationalist terrorists  but has declined to cease disseminating messages that aid and abet their cause.

Trump has said that immigrants have strongly and violently changed [Europes] culture  and that immigrants threaten to do the same to the U.S. He has retweeted anti-Muslim propaganda from a British fascist organization, and appointed members of anti-Muslim think tanks  which have called for shutting down mosques across the United States  to top administration positions. One of his White Houses former senior advisers wrote in 2016 that the ceaseless importation of Third World foreigners was a threat to the survival of the American republic. During his presidential campaign, Trump himself called for banning all Muslims from the United States and jokingly suggested that Second Amendment people might be justified in preventing the appointment of liberal Supreme Court justices through violence. The administration has never apologized for any of these actions despite copious evidence that they have provided aid and comfort to terrorists. From the Daily Beast report:

In interviews with investigators, the group cited extreme anti-Muslim views as the motivation for the alleged mosque bombing. Hari also portrayed himself as a national security expert. In a bizarre design proposal to President Donald Trumps wall on the Mexican border, Hari expressed white nationalist views, calling the wall a chance for American people to defend their nation and its Anglo-Saxon heritage, Western culture and English language.

In sum: Preventing the virtually nonexistent threat of terrorist attacks by longtime, undocumented residents of the United States is worth maintaining a multibillion-dollar bureaucracy that terrorizes the friends and relatives of American citizens  but combating the active threat of white nationalist militias is not important enough to compel the president to cease echoing their propaganda.

What could possibly explain the dissonance in these policies?
It hasnt been a great year. Photo: Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images

Paul Manaforts ongoing trial in Virginia, on charges that include bank and tax fraud, may be a sideshow to Special Counsel Robert Muellers larger Russia investigation, but it produced a pretty compelling moment of courtroom drama on Monday.

Rick Gates, Manaforts former partner in crime (literally, it turns out), took the stand to detail the many shady sides of the international lobbying business he helped the ex-superlobbyist run for years. Gates said that, at the direction of his boss, he helped Manafort falsify his tax returns, failed to report 15 foreign bank accounts, and did not register Manafort as a foreign agent, as is required by law.

Gates, who cut a plea deal with Mueller months ago, also confessed to embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort, in part by fabricating expense reports.

As a sober Gates recited his testimony, Manafort reacted about the way youd expect.

I have seen some cold stares in my life but watching Paul Manafort stare down his former deputy, arms crossed, as Rick Gates recounted the long list of his alleged crimes was remarkable. #ManafortTrial  Jim Sciutto (@jimsciutto) August 6, 2018

Manafort, a flamboyant figure in Washington for decades, became known for his consulting and lobbying work for ethically questionable international leaders like Ukraines Viktor Yanukovych. With an enormous salary serving his expensive lifestyle (earlier in Manaforts trial, we learned about his taste for ostrich jackets), Manafort had a pretty good racket going on, until he plunged into debt and made the fateful decision to run President Trumps long-shot campaign in 2016. When Robert Mueller began investigating Russian interference last year, Manaforts questionable lobbying work  the sort of activity that has historically rarely been investigated in Washington  was put under a microscope, exposing him and his associates.

Gates was charged along with Manafort last October, and pleaded guilty to conspiracy and lying to the FBI in February. But Manafort has refused to cut a deal with Mueller, perhaps hoping that the president will bail him out of his predicament with a pardon.
Rapacious Ross. Photo: Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post/Getty Images

Wilbur Ross, the octogenarian Commerce Secretary who months ago was found to have grossly inflated his wealth in order to gain entry to the exclusive Forbes billionaire club, stands accused of a much graver infraction.

In an article published Tuesday morning, Forbess Dan Alexander  who has become Rosss central tormentor in the last few months  reported that, based on conversations he had with 21 people, Ross may have stolen more than $120 million from associates over the years, taking vast amounts of money from business partners and consistently scamming investors. If even half of the accusations are legitimate, the magazine writes, the current United States secretary of commerce could rank among the biggest grifters in American history. If possible, the story paints an even more unflattering portrait of the man than that description lets on:

It is difficult to imagine the possibility that a man like Ross, who Forbes estimates is worth some $700 million, might steal a few million from one of his business partners. Unless you have heard enough stories about Ross. Two former WL Ross colleagues remember the commerce secretary taking handfuls of SweetN Low packets from a nearby restaurant, so he didnt have to go out and buy some for himself. One says workers at his house in the Hamptons used to call the office, claiming Ross had not paid them for their work. Another two people said Ross once pledged $1 million to a charity, then never paid. A commerce official called the tales petty nonsense, and added that Ross does not put sweetener in his coffee.

One of Rosss former colleagues calls him a pathological liar.

In a statement, the Department of Commerce said: The anonymously sourced Forbes story is based on false rumors, innuendo, and unverifiable claims. The fact remains that no regulator has made any of these accusations against the Secretary. This rehash of old stories is clearly the result of a personal vendetta. The baseless claims made in this story were well publicized long ago and are not news.

Forbes reports that Rosss private equity funds were struggling in the run-up to President Trumps victory, and that his complex methods of allegedly skimming money from investors, which involved, in part, charging inappropriately large management fees, were drawing increasing scrutiny from federal authorities. The Commerce Secretary position provided a soft landing.

But Ross isnt out of the legal woods. He has also had to contend with accusations leveled by several former colleagues, who say that he stole millions from them. Several have filed suit against Ross over the years  one lawsuit was settled for about $10 million in 2007  and another case, filed by equity manager David Storper, is making its way through the New York court system.

Unsurprisingly, Rosss questionable ethical practices have continued during his White House tenure. As Dan Alexander (yes, him again) reported last June, Ross maintained holdings in foreign companies even while serving in government, exposing him to obvious conflicts of interest. One of these firms had major ties to a Russian oligarch who had been hit with American sanctions. Last November, Ross signed a form asserting that he had divested all the assets he had previously promised to, which turned out not to be true.

These transgressions, for which Ross has mostly offered difficult-to-believe explanations of ignorance on his part, have drawn some attention from Democratic lawmakers and the Office of Government Ethics.

But is any of this enough to possibly cost Ross his job? Given that it took roughly 475 scandals for Scott Pruitt to finally get the heave-ho, it seems unlikely, at least for now. But if Democrats take control of Congress in the fall, with all the oversight powers that entails, Ross may find himself in a considerably worse position.
Iceland tourism has exploded in recent years thanks to the global financial crisis, a volcanic eruption, and a new airline. But now some experts  including locals  believe that the country is going through a tourism bubble.

Theyre concerned about that, Yahoo Finance Editor-In-Chief Andy Serwer, who visited Iceland for the New Year, said on the Final Round recently. There are so many hotels. And [locals] said, What is it about our economy where were kind of prone to bubbles?

I mean, they blew up during the financial crisis worse than we did. And they had a lot of hot Russian money there, and that was a problem. And so they recovered from that. And now I think a lot of people there think theyre heading into the next bubble.

Over the past nine years, the number of tourists visiting the volcanic island of about 350,000 inhabitants has increased exponentially  440%  from around 500,000 in 2008 to 2.2 million in 2017.

Chart: IMF

American tourists, in particular, like Iceland. According to data from the Icelandic Tourist Board, more people came from the U.S. than any other country in 2015 and 2016. And between January and May this year, 24.4% of the tourists were American.

Up close and personal to the forces of nature

The two big precursors to the tourism boom were the financial crisis and the eruption of the volcano Eyjafjallajokull.

In 2008 Icelands currency crashed, people were left unemployed, and its three primary banks went bust. People took to the streets in what was known as the kitchenware revolution. Many bankers  and even the prime minister  were put on trial for their role in the collapse.

A demonstrator carries a cone during a protest in Reykjavik January 25, 2009. REUTERS/Ints Kalnins (ICELAND)

People had also become aware of Iceland through it being the first casualty of the 2008 credit crunch, said Huijbens. The ensuing kitchenware revolution and the constitutional reform  which was initiated but not fully completed  also brought sudden exposure to the country.

In 2010 Eyjafjallajokull erupted, leading to over 100,000 flights being canceled and costing the air industry $200 million, according to data from IATA.

Story continues

But the volcanic eruption most certainly put Iceland on the global tourist map, Edward Huijbens at the Icelandic Tourism Research Centre told Yahoo Finance. It underlined to those wanting to come up close and personal to the forces of nature, why they should come.

The Northern Lights are seen above the ash plume of Icelands Eyjafjallajokull volcano in the evening April 22, 2010. REUTERS/Lucas Jackson

A handful of airlines flew to Iceland

Right after the eruption, Icelands tourism board began working on a marketing campaign to boost its international image. It partnered with advertising and branding agencies and launched a push on social media.

Soon after, the aviation industry began offering more flights to the country. Huijbens pointed out that in 2010, only a handful of airlines flew to Iceland, but now, around 30 airlines fly to and from Iceland this summer alone.

Prior to the countrys low-cost carrier WOW airs launch in 2012, Icelandair was the main operator that flew to Iceland. But since its launch, seat capacity has greatly increased  with Icelandair and WOW air together offering 9.5 million seats out of the 12.1 million in total.

Chart: CAPA

The cost of travel has also dropped tremendously. This fall, a one-way flight from the U.S. to Reykjavik, the countrys capital city, would cost you $99 with Icelands low-cost airline WOW air.

This should not go bust

Nowadays, the country has fully recovered thanks to the massive boom in its tourism industry. The total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in 2017 was 34.6% and forecasted to rise further, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council.

And while growth is slowing, Huijbens believes that the country is not facing a bubble and expects the good times to continue.

Visitors enjoy a drink in the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Grindavik, Iceland, May 25, 2016. REUTERS/Gwladys Fouche

Inbound tourism is still growing compared to last year, and by the end of 2018, we are most likely looking at 5% more tourists than 2017, added Huijbens. That is still healthy growth.

Hjalti Baldursson, founder of Bokun which is a software and sales platform for the Icelandic tourism industry, echoes the sentiment. The country has earned its spot as one of the worlds bucket list destinations thanks to our beautiful landscape and the many unique experiences we offer, Baldursson told Yahoo Finance. These include things such as hot springs, glacier-hiking, northern lights viewings, caving, snorkeling between tectonic plates, snowmobiling, and much more.

But fears of a slowdown has set people panicking and many of those that should be consolidating their investments in tourism and building towards the future are pulling out, Huijbens said. That is the gold rush mentality problem.

ICELAND  2017/06/30: Tourist photographing traditional turf houses at the Skogar folk museum in southern Iceland. (Photo by Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Nevertheless, Huijbens argued that this is a bubble I would say that can and will most likely stay.

He explained: When it boomed all rushed in to make a quick buck, now some of those are leaving as they have no real ambitions or vision for tourism in the country. So now we will see if the industry consolidates and builds its services, offerings, and infrastructure. If this happens there is nothing to say Iceland cannot cater to the number of visitors arriving at current and even more. 

The growth boomed for a while and if the industry plays their cards right this should not go bust.

Follow Aarthi on Twitter.

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Donald Trump has signed an executive order to reimpose controversial sanctions on Iran.

The US presidents move was branded psychological warfare by Iranian president Hassan Rouhani.

The sanctions went back into effect early on Tuesday and target financial transactions that involve US dollars, Irans automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

Further sanctions targeting Irans oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

Donald Trump has reimposed US sanctions on Iran (Picture: Rex)

It is three months since Mr Trump pulled the US out of the international accord limiting Irans nuclear activities.

He called the landmark 2015 agreement horrible, claiming it left the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

Iran accused the US of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by Barack Obamas administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest.

European allies said they deeply regret the US action.

But Mr Trump said: We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilising behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

MOST POPULAR ON YAHOO NEWS UK

Mr Trump warned that those who do not wind down their economic ties to Iran risk severe consequences.

Despite his claims, the accord is working and delivering on its goal of limiting Irans nuclear programme, said a statement by European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the UK.

Story continues

The ministers said the Iran deal is crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world, and the European Union issued a blocking statute on Monday to protect European businesses from the impact of the sanctions.

Iranian president Hassan Rouhani said that Iran can still rely on China and Russia to keep its oil and banking sectors afloat.

Speaking in a television interview, he also demanded compensation for decades of American intervention in the Islamic Republic.

Mr Rouhani said: They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation.

Negotiations with sanctions doesnt make sense.

We are always in favour of diplomacy and talks but talks need honesty.

Iranian president Hassan Rouhani addresses the nation in a televised speech in Tehran on Monday (Picture: AP)

Months of uncertainty surrounding the sanctions have already further hurt Irans economy. The countrys rial currency has fallen in value and the downturn has sparked protests across the nation.

The Trump Administration wants the world to believe its concerned about the Iranian people, Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a statement posted to Twitter.

But, he said, the reimposed sanctions would endanger ordinary Iranians. He added: US hypocrisy knows no bounds.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said sanctions are an important pillar in American policy toward Iran and will remain in place until the Iranian government radically changes course.

Theyve got to behave like a normal country. Thats the ask. Its pretty simple, said Mr Pompeo.

He said the US has long designated Iran as the worlds foremost state sponsor of terrorism.
Makerere University has suspended three students for allegedly threatening to disrupt activities at the university over tuition increment.

Kituno Daniel, a student from the college of education and external studies, Dhabona Jobs from the college of humanities and social sciences and Kigula Samuel from the college of health science were suspended by the vice chancellor Prof Barnabas Nawangwe.



In his August 6 letter addressed separately to each of the students, Prof Nawangwe, accuses them of circulating messages calling for defiance against the university management.

Prof Barnabas Nawangwe

"It has come to my attention that you are involved in acts that are intended to cause anarchy at the university. Among other illegal acts, you have circulated inflammatory messages on social media calling for defiance and disruption of university activities," Prof Nawangwe said in the three letters that carry similar wording.



He said the students also participated in an illegal demonstration on Sunday, during which they disrupted the guild representative council (GRC) session, posing danger to the lives of participants and damaging university property.



Makerere University vice guild president Fiona Kokoi told URN that the students were protesting against 15 per cent fees increment. The university management increased fee by 15 per cent starting with the 2018/19 academic year.



"Your said illegal actions are in breach of the university policies and national policies and give rise to both criminal and civil liability on your part, despite several engagements, you refused to take heed," he said.



Nawangwe argues that the suspension that runs until "further notice" is meant to ensure safety and security of members of the university community and property as well provide serene environment for peaceful activities of the university.



Nawangwe directed the university chief security officer to commence criminal proceedings against the suspended students and ensure that they vacate university premises immediately.
Sosipateri Nima, a lecturer from Uganda technical Institute, Elgon branch whose body was found lying naked in Saver's guesthouse in Jinja town last week on August 2 was killed by a blunt force.



A postmortem report from Jinja regional referral hospital shows that Nima sustained internal injuries.

"No external injuries were observed but he had fractured 3rd and 4th rib on the right side, both lungs were contused," reads the postmortem in part.





The postmortem was witnessed by Detective Corporal David Makoba who is attached at Jinja central police station. Police have opened a case of murder under CRB 253/2018 at Jinja CPS.



A source familiar with the investigations told URN on condition of anonymity that the lecturer is suspected to have been attacked by unknown people who hit him in the lower abdomen and upper chest leading to his death.



Diana Nandawula, the Kiira region police spokesperson, declined to confirm that the lecturer was attacked, saying investigations are still ongoing.



"I cannot confirm that right now but am aware that detectives are investigating that incident and hunting for possible suspects before forwarding the file to resident state attorney for legal advice," Nandawula said.

Nima had gone to Jinja to supervise Nyiro Hanington, a student from the college who was completing his internship in Jinja town. His body was found lying naked on the floor of his room. Phinehas Kidiba, the brother to deceased, said that Nima told him on his mobile phone prior to his death to inform his family that he was tired and was not going to return home.
Police has transferred all officers in-charge of Traffic and Road Safety at the different divisional police stations in Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono and Mpigi districts.



Police director human resource administration, Moses Balimwoyo communicated the transfers in a message issued at 10:30am on Monday. The affected officers have been moved to districts like Kasese, Kakumiro, Mubende and Rubirizi among others. Balimwoyo says, "the transfers and appointments take immediate effect."



The transfers have affected 23 traffic officers between the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP) and Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP).

Traffic officers on duty in Kampala

The transfers come barely a day after the director Traffic and Road Safety Dr Stephen Kasiima halted all traffic operations against motorists that have been ongoing for alleged extortion and abuse of office by traffic commanders.



The decision to halt the operations, which was communicated to all traffic commanders in an internal memo, was meant to pave way for investigations into allegations levied against the different police commanders.

The operations were aimed at apprehending motorists accused of defaulting under the Express Penalty Scheme (EPS) defaulters, motorcyclists riding on pavements and carrying two passengers, Operation Fika Salama and reckless driving.

Police spokesperson, Emilian Kayima, says while the massive operations have been halted, traffic officers will continue to enforce traffic laws where necessary.



"Dr Stephen Kasiima AIGP, halted the massive operations that have been carried out countrywide especially here in Kampala Metropolitan. There were so many complaints regarding that and there is a possibility of abuse especially among the boda boda riders and taxi drivers and other motorists who feel that they are not listened to. With some of these police officers sounding and looking bigger than the law. This doesn't mean that traffic officers are off the road, if you flout traffic regulations, the officers will take care of you as law so prescribes," said Kayima.



Over the past two months, police has had to control five demonstrations by motorcyclists and taxi drivers all of, which were aimed at protesting mistreatment by traffic officers. The demonstrations were scheduled to take place in Old Kampala, Old Taxi Park, Natete, Mukono and Nansana.
David and Diane have been married for years; then there is Julie, the young secretary whose axis collides with the couples in ways none of them saw coming.
We cant stay mad at you. Photo: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images

In some ways, Rudy Giuliani has done exactly what President Trump hired him to do as his attorney: publicly defend him while discrediting Special Counsel Robert Mueller. Giuliani has stalled on whether the president will sit for an interview with Mueller, attempted to move the goalposts by emphasizing that collusion is not a crime, and even employed dramatic facial expressions to suggest that its Muellers team, not the White House, thats being kooky and unreasonable.

But of course, theres a flip side to Giulianis attention-grabbing performances. Shortly after his hiring he was on Hannity revealing that Trump knew about the Stormy Daniels payment, despite his denials, and since then hes continually found new ways to stick his foot in his mouth.

Last week, Vanity Fairs Gabriel Sherman reported that after a particularly gaffe-filled spate of media appearances, even Trump was losing his patience. Trump thinks hes saying too much, said a Republican close to the White House.

But Giuliani has yet to be sidelined, and hes continued to demonstrate that much like his boss, hes incapable of reeling it in. On Monday night, Giuliani continued teasing the possibility of Trump talking with Mueller while attempting to severely limit the scope of their discussion. Giuliani told the Washington Post that Trumps legal team is about to send a letter to Mueller rejecting his offer of an interview that includes limited questions about obstruction of justice  which appears to be the primary topic the special counsel wants to address with Trump.

We have a real reluctance about allowing any questions about obstruction, Giuliani said. He acknowledged this could annoy federal investigators while offering a contradictory explanation for why he cant talk to Mueller, though supposedly, hed like to.

Sure, it could, Giuliani said of irritating prosecutors. But they are trying to get something on perjury and thats not going to happen. The answers, with regard to [former national-security adviser Michael] Flynn and the firing of [FBI Director James] Comey are already well known and theyre not going to change. Hed say the same thing in the interview that hes said publicly.

So Trumps attorneys are both worried about Trump perjuring himself, and so confident that his private statements would match his public comments that an interview is unnecessary.

After a long day of working to thwart Mueller, Giuliani tried to unwind by tweeting attacks on Rahm Emanuel, misspelling the Chicago mayors last name and falsely claiming that 63 people were murdered when in reality 11 people were fatally shot over the weekend.

63 murders this weekend in Rahm Emmanuels Chicago. His legacy more murders in his city than ever before. Its only because of Democrat brain washing that he has even a chance of remaining. Support police professional Garry McCarthy.  Rudy Giuliani (@RudyGiuliani) August 6, 2018

Then he raged at a random Fox guest who suggested hes a smoker.

There is a moron on Fox claiming I chain smoke cigarettes worrying about the Presidents tweets. Dont smoke cigarettes. Hate me. Smoke only premium cigars and I hope this idiot is not a lawyer because if he is he should sue his Law School.  Rudy Giuliani (@RudyGiuliani) August 6, 2018

But Giuliani only invited more mockery when he accidentally typed hate me instead of hate em. Twitter users were happy to oblige:

"Don't smoke cigarettes. Hate me." Literally the best advice Rudy has given anyone in a very, very long time.  Catherine (@catherineshakes) August 7, 2018

Hate me: the Rudy Giuliani Story https://t.co/xXDcAEM7aG  Scafe for America (@erinscafe) August 7, 2018
She was around right before her divorce. Said Loder was very absent. My grandmother didn't really socialize with him, which is odd because she lived with them.



Hedy was horrible with accounting. My grandmother had to handle the books.



She would get a lot of flowers sent to her from other men. She would have to throw them away so her husband wouldnt see them. One man in particular would consistently do it. This was right before the divorce, so whos to say there wasnt something more. My grandmother was a strict Catholic so she wouldnt have been comfortable aiding but she was only 19 and displaced in Hollywood so she could have been really naive and didnt catch onto things.



She used to take the kids (along with Lucy/Desis kids) to church and said she would sit with Vivien Leigh & Bob Hope at mass.



She only was out there for a year & a half and she was very secretive about it. No one in the family knew about it until maybe 10 years before she died. It was quite the mind blowing revelation.



Edited at 2018-08-08 01:46 am (UTC)
I stopped buying steelbooks a long time ago but oh bitch I am buying that Hocus Pocus one.

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i watched this ridiculous 1975 horror film called Demon Witch Child (or The Possessed) on amazon prime, and it killed me



watch this clip, LMAO





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Lmfaoooo



There's nothing demonic about her, she's just being a nasty brat (at least in that clip). 

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LMAO, that's what was killing me. she was a fucking brat, saying nasty shit to her mother about her mom's sex life, and just being rude (she has a particularly nasty exchange with a priest). the witch who possessed her was really ugly and was balding, so the little girl starts to look like that throughout the film, it was so funny.



she also does something really fucked up at the end lol



i bet back in the day it was very ~shocking to see and hear that on the screen lol

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I saw Demon Witch Child at the Alamo Drafthouse a couple years ago. I remember that screening because I won a free copy of "The Name of the Game is Kill" in a raffle. It was a fun night.



I wanna get Demon Witch Child on DVD. I think it's out there in a double feature from Code Red (which I hate, but what can you do?).

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LMAO

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isn't this just a taylor swift home video?

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Really interested in Madeline's Madeline, I've heard good things!



The Little Stranger is 100% a movie I will go see a matinee of by myself because we've seen the trailer for it a couple times and my husband is unimpressed, but I love Ruth Wilson and creepy house movies.



I'm mad I bought Hocus Pocus on DVD, because I will be buying the fuck out of that blu-ray.



Little Apple sounds like it could be good, hope it finds distribution soon!





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thanks for reading thru our post bb <3 Definitely thought you in particular would appreciate the August release info!!!

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Thank you guys for putting so much effort into your posts! Truly a dying art on this site.

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I'm here for Apple, See, and that movie about the lady who dies in childbirth and haunts people.

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I am so interested in that comic by Shaun Beyale.

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me too, definitely wanna check that out!

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it's so fucked up that penny and gary marshall play a married couple in this movie lmao

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love this film!!

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i haven't seen hocus pocus in forever lol. didnt they do a remake or something?

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See sounds intriguing, and I'm a fan of the cast and director James Wan behind the project too.



Interesting that Apple TV seems to be parlaying into the digital field and I hope this leads to more opportunity to POC and esp. WOC behind and front of the scenes. Even Facebook is getting the business too/looking forward to that Elizabeth Olsen/Kelly Marie Tran dramedy!



The Little Stranger has my attention (I love the cast esp. Ginger Bae ;) Hopefully it gives me The Others vibe which I got a bit of in the trailer!

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Yeah, I definitely got a The Others vibe from that trailer as well!

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See definitely sounds intriguing, will be looking forward to reading about it and seeing what they film. Agree with u about apple tv, hope it will do diverse stories! Will have to figure out how to,support these projects lol.



I wantes to read the little stranger before seeing the movie, but i dont think that will happen!



The Others is so good!

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Yep! Yeah, there's so many streaming services now/more to come I'm like woah Nelly slow down.



the guy who's directing it also directed Room/Frank so I hope this film is good cause the trailer was a bit boring imo.



the others is so good/the atmosphere for it was perfect!



Edited at 2018-08-07 04:28 am (UTC)

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Can they just release a HQ recording of "I Put a Spell on You" already?

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Ooh I loved Ken Liu's The Paper Menagerie short story collection. I hope the animation's good.

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Learn more about LiveJournal Ratings in Hello! Your entry got to top-25 of the most popular entries in LiveJournal!Learn more about LiveJournal Ratings in FAQ

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lmao where is this from?

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HOCUS POCUS 25TH ANNIVERSARY? I REFUSE TO BELIEVE

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Damn, Summer of '84 and Along Came the Devil sound REALLY freaking good. They're going to show Summer of 84 at a theatre near me! Gunna ask my sister if she wants to go see it :D

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i know right, i wanna see those two so badly! i have to see if i can go see em! definitely lmk what u think if u go see summer of 84!

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https://archive.org/details/Ghostwatch#



https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghostwatch have a link to ghostwatch!

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I wanna read Ponti. Gonna reccomend it to my library if they dont have it.

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As if oil market participants havent had enough conflicting market forces to digest over the past week, reports that Saudi Arabias crude oil production surprisingly dropped in July by around 200,000 bpd from June further confounded the market and sent oil prices rising on Monday.

Last week, several surveys of OPECs crude oil production in July showed that the cartel is pumping at high rates, and Saudi Arabia is nearing its production record. But on Friday, Saudi sources and OPEC sources told news agencies that the Saudi oil production was not even close to record figuresand it actually dropped last month compared to June.

The Saudis pumped 10.29 million bpd in July, Saudi sources told S&P Global Platts on Friday. On the same day, two OPEC sources told Reuters that Saudi Arabias crude oil production in July was 10.29 million bpd.

According to OPECs secondary sources, the ones the cartel uses to calculate quotas and compliance, Saudi Arabias oil production had jumped in June by 405,400 bpd compared to May, to reach 10.420 million bpd.

According to a Reuters survey from last week, Saudi Arabias production in July was 10.65 million bpd, but exports were close to Junes levels because the Saudis increased domestic use at power plants and refineries. OPECs crude oil production jumped by 340,000 bpd in July from June, as Saudi Arabia pumped near-record volumes, the S&P Global Platts survey showed on Friday.

Related: The Next Big Energy Standoff Will Happen Here

The numbers leaked by Saudi and OPEC sources on Friday are in stark contrast with many of the surveys.

Some of the Platts survey participants think that Saudi Arabia may have trouble placing its barrels on the market, and demand for Saudi crude may not have been as robust as the Kingdom had expected.

I think what theyre trying to do is, theres a story in the market that the Saudis and the UAE and Kuwaitis and Russians were all vastly increasing production well ahead of any cutbacks from Iran, and I think they are trying to change the narrative, a Platts survey participant said.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Chinas yuan-denominated crude oil futures contract for September delivery jumped to an all-time high on Tuesday by its daily limit, as speculators are eagerly trading the Chinese futures, while investors are uncertain where the most actively traded international benchmarksBrent Crude and WTI Crudeare heading.

The Chinese oil futures, launched in March this year, have jumped as much as 5 percent so far in August and have been steadily gaining over the past two weeks.

Meanwhile, Brent Crude and WTI Crude are stuck in a tight range as market participants and traders try to make sense of the conflicting forces in the current oil marketthe returning U.S. sanctions on Iran on the one hand, and fears that trade wars could curb demand growth, on the other hand.

On Tuesday, the Chinese crude futures contract for September jumped by its 5-percent daily limit compared to Mondays settlement price, to US$78.37 (537.20 yuan) per barrel.

At 08:29 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, WTI Crude was up 1.10 percent at $69.24, and Brent Crude was trading up 1.26 at $74.13.

According to Bloomberg, there could be several reasons why the Chinese oil futures are soaring these days, unlike the two most active and important crude oil benchmarks. One is that a weaker yuan versus the US dollar could be enticing traders to buy the cheaper yuan-denominated Chinese futures, Bruce Xue, an analyst with Haitong Securities Co, told Bloomberg. Then Chinas reduction of U.S. crude oil imports amid the ongoing trade war raises speculation that the worlds biggest crude importer may see a shortage of cargoes, according to the analyst. Related: The Next Big Energy Standoff Will Happen Here

After months of subdued trading in the December 2019 futures contract, it has now become popular, and one of the reasons behind its appeal could be that Chinese oil traders and speculators prefer to trade futures on a quarterly instead of on a monthly basis, Xue told Bloomberg.

Chinese traders are also more speculative in their trading. According to data compiled by Bloomberg, traders in the Shanghai oil futures have held contracts for less than 2 hours on average, compared to 65 hours of contracts held in Brent.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate both started the day today with only moderate gains despite the return of U.S. sanctions against Iran that will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time today.

At the time of writing, Brent crude was trading at US$73.81 a barrel, with WTI at US$69.05, both up by less than a percentage point from yesterdays close. But this could change later in the day as the flow of forecasts of reduced supply intensifies.

French Societe Generale has already estimated that the sanctions will remove 1 million bpd of Iranian oil from global markets, and yesterday a Goldman Sachs analyst told Bloomberg that the bank expected a very, very tight oil market.

Monday saw the return of sanctions against Irans metals, aerospace, and automaking industries. President Hassah Rouhani said President Trumps recent suggestion the two could meet was only for show, CNBC reported. Indeed, any talks are unlikely since Washington has made it clear it will take nothing short of a regime change to remove the sanctions.

The alternativeIrans government agreeing to all U.S. demands such as putting an end to its participation in regional affairs, support for the Yemen Houthis, Hamas, and Hezbollah, and meddling in Syriaremains within the realm of fantasy. Related: Warship Or Oil Tanker  What Did The Houthis Hit?

Iranian oil importers from China to Europe are not too happy with the U.S. course of action, but Washington has once again reiterated its intention to see Iranian oil exports squeezed out completely by November 4. A government official this week repeated this goal, adding that the case-by-case treatment of countries was still on the table, but that but our goal is to reduce the amount of revenue and hard currency going into Iran.

By the looks of it, oil prices are set for a rise in the coming months as the effect of the sanctions begins to be felt, which is not particularly good news for the administration: midterm elections are coming in November and prices at the pump tend to have an impact on voting decisions. Yet for now it seems the crackdown on Iran is higher on Washingtons priority list than keeping gas prices lower for longer.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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The oil bulls are back, with the U.S. finally enacting the first round of sanctions on Iran and Saudi Arabia cutting back on its crude production.

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Oil markets had a bullish start to the week as U.S. sanctions on Iran came into effect and Saudi Arabia surprisingly reduced its crude production and exports

- U.S. fuel ethanol production capacity surpassed 16 billion gallons per year, or 1.06 million barrels per day (mb/d), at the beginning of 2018, according to the EIA.

- Most is located in the Midwest, with Iowa alone accounting for more than 4 billion gallons per year.

- Federal policy has helped drive the steady increase in output, even though the ethanol industry has been fighting an all-out war with oil refiners and the oil-friendly EPA over the past year.

- The battle has mostly resulted in a stalemate, and the ouster of Scott Pruitt as EPA administrator was seen as a victory for the corn and ethanol industries.

Market Movers

 ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM) is close to making a major oil discovery in Pakistan near the border with Iran. A Pakistani official said the discovery could exceed the entire oil reserves of Kuwait.

 A U.S. court of appeals vacated permits for Dominion Energys (NYSE: D) 600-mile Atlantic Coast pipeline that is intended to carry shale gas from the Marcellus to Virginia and North Carolina. Dominion said that it does not expect the issue to hold up the project.

 Meanwhile, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ordered EQT (NYSE: EQT) to halt construction on the 300-mile Mountain Valley pipeline over the potential environmental impact. The permitting issue could delay the in-service date into 2020, instead of the first quarter of 2019.

Tuesday August 7, 2018

Oil prices edged up at the start of the week on the implementation of the first round of sanctions on Iran. The Trump administration is talking tough about trying to get Irans oil exports to zero. That remains to be seen, but the market took on a bullish tinge at the start of the week, expecting losses from Iran to begin to pile up (more below).

Sanctions on Iran begin. The Trump administration moved to implement sanctions on Iran this week, a decision announced months ago. The first round of sanctions applies to the sale of U.S. dollars to Iran, the purchasing of Iranian sovereign debt, Irans automotive industry and the trade in precious metals. The oil-related sanctions will take effect in November, and analysts expect countries to begin cutting their imports from Iran with that deadline now only three months away. Estimates on outages vary, but many analysts expect the losses to top 1 mb/d. Amrita Sen of Energy Aspects said oil could hit $90 by the end of the year. Related: Pakistan: Exxon Is Close To Making A Mega Oil Discovery

Saudi Arabia cut production in July. In a surprise move, Saudi Arabia cut its oil production in July to 10.29 mb/d, down 200,000 bpd from a month earlier. The unexpected reduction came after Saudi Arabia reportedly could not find buyers for the price that it demanded, opting to cut output rather than offer discounts. The move indicates a desire by Riyadh to keep prices from falling from current levels.

Saudi Arabia resumes shipments through Red Sea. Saudi Arabia resumed oil shipments through the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb after a two-week hiatus due to security concerns.

OPEC fundamentally changed from before. Reuters argues that oil policy is now being driven by Saudi Arabia and Russia, and OPEC, as we have known, is obsolete. OPEC is no longer the primary decision-making forum for producing countries trying to coordinate policy on output and prices. Real decision-making power has passed from OPEC and its group of allies into the hands of Saudi Arabia and Russia, Reuters wrote.

U.S. abandons plans for sanctions on Venezuela. Because Venezuela is collapsing on its own, the U.S. has decided to hold off on applying sweeping sanctions on the crumbling nation, for fear of both making it worse, and assuming responsibility for a deeper collapse. The U.S. government had previously signaled that painful sanctions would follow the sham election of President Nicolas Maduro in May, but instead held off. Analysts had expected either a ban on U.S. diluent heading to Venezuela, or possibly a ban on oil imports from Venezuela into the U.S. But Venezuelas oil production is already cratering, with output set to fall below 1 mb/d by the end of the year, down from 2.3 mb/d in January 2016. Weve never seen an industry or a country collapse this fast and this hard, said EIA analyst Lejla Villar in a recent interview with the S&P Global Platts Capitol Crude podcast. Weve never seen anything like this.

Maduro survives assassination attempt. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro survived an apparent assassination attempt. A previously unknown group took responsibility for an attack that saw drones equipped with explosives detonate during a military parade. Analysts believe that Maduro will use the incident to tighten his grip but the incident also exposes his increasingly fragile hold over the nation.

LNG projects set to rise. A wave of investment decisions in new LNG export terminals in the late 2000s led to a surge in new export capacity. But the oil market downturn in 2014, and the huge jump in LNG supply, led to a dry period for new FIDs in LNG. That has suddenly changed over the past year, with enormous Chinese demand for LNG and a rebound in oil prices. Now, major LNG developers are set to begin another phase of investment. Qatar is aiming to increase capacity by a third, increasing production to 100 million tonnes per year (mtpa) by 2023-2024. Royal Dutch Shell (NYSE: RDS.A) is also considering a massive export project on Canadas west coast.

Related: Pakistan: Exxon Is Close To Making A Mega Oil Discovery

Trafigura submits plans for Texas deepwater oil export terminal. Oil trader Trafigura has submitted plans to build the first deepwater oil export terminal in the U.S., to be based on the coast of Texas. Existing export facilities cannot accommodate very large crude carriers (VLCCs). The greenfield project would require the construction of storage tanks and pipeline connections. Last month, Enterprise Product Partners (NYSE: EPD) said it was working on a proposal for an export terminal capable of loading VLCCs on the Texas coast.

SEC quietly drops climate change suit against Exxon. U.S. SEC regulators dropped an investigation into ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM) into whether or not the oil major misled investors about its financial risks to climate change. The investigation began under the Obama administration but the current leadership at the SEC decided to close the case.

Kosmos Energy to acquire Deep Gulf Energy. Kosmos Energy (NYSE: KOS) agreed to acquire Deep Gulf Energy for $1.23 billion, a move that would grant Kosmos a large foothold in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.

U.S.-Canada trade spat could ensnare Trans Mountain Expansion. Canada has moved to take over Kinder Morgans (NYSE: KMI) Trans Mountain Expansion pipeline, but the acquisition requires the approval of U.S. regulators. That could become a point of leverage in the U.S.-Canadian trade discussions.

By Tom Kool for Oilprice.com

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Two weeks ago, it looked as if Canadas fledgling LNG hopes would finally be resuscitated. Shells chief financial officer Jessica Uhl told analysts during the companys second quarter conference call that the future of the twice-postponed C$40 bn (US$30.75 bn) LNG Canada project slated to be built in British Columbia (BC) near Kitimat was still under study.

"LNG Canada looks very promising and together with our partners we need to finalize consideration of a few key items before we can take a positive final investment decision," she said. "We see great opportunities but we also have clear expectations when it comes to competitiveness, affordability and returns. We have an attractive portfolio of new supply options ... [and] want to select the most competitive source of supply. LNG Canada is the most mature of these options.

If built, the project would be massive, and eventually ship as much as 28 million tons a year of gas to markets in Asia, which currently account for 72 percent of global LNG demand with that amount projected to increase to 75 percent amid exorbitant Chinese gas demand. The projects output would eventually make up around 10 percent of all global LNG supply

Due to its location on Canadas west coast, the projects shipping distance would be the shortest for LNG exports from North America to the Asia-Pacific region by several days, thereby ushering in more competition for U.S.-based terminals that have to traverse the longer routes from the Gulf Coast. Longer sailing distances for LNG vessels means more gas boil-off as well as other costs associated with extra days at sea.

In early July, Houston-based Civeo Corp was awarded a contract to supply temporary work camps at four locations along the Coastal GasLink pipeline from Dawson Creek, B.C., to the West Coast, on the condition that the LNG export terminal is built, according to a CBC report. However, Uhl said that the company is still doing its homework. Shell needs to know if the LNG Canada project will be resilient, generating positive free cash across a "range of commercial and energy transition scenarios, she said. Related: Something Strange Is Happening In The Saudi Oil Patch

While many in the Canadian energy sector and even abroad were upbeat over Uhls statements, news broke on Friday that a jurisdictional challenge over the Coastal GasLink pipeline that would supply the proposed LNG Canada project in Kitimat had been issued.

More legal maneuvering

Michael Sawyer, who spent two decades as an environmental consultant in the oil and gas sector in Alberta, is arguing that TransCanadas C$4.7bn Coastal GasLink pipeline should have faced a federal environmental review instead of a provincial one.

The National Energy Board (NEB) rejected a similar challenge by Sawyer against another LNG pipeline (TransCanadas Prince Rupert Gas Transmission pipeline), the report added. But in a major legal win for opponents last year, the Federal Court of Appeal ruled the NEB had erred and must consider whether the pipeline fell under federal jurisdiction.

Sawyer has filed an application to the NEB to review the environmental jurisdiction over Coastal GasLink, potentially delaying construction for the LNG Canada project. Sawyer said he was not outright opposed to LNG, but claims it needs to be demonstrated that it is in the public interest, adding that this is not the case with the Coastal Gas Link situation. The NEB declined to comment over the case other than confirming it had received Sawyers request.

Missed opportunities

However, Sawyers request for further review is typical of the problems that have plagued Canadas LNG development plans since its inception some seven years ago. While the U.S., Canadas LNG competitor to the south, was pushing through a myriad of LNG project proposals and positioning itself to soon become the worlds third largest LNG importer by around 2020 with five major project operations and many more in the works, all of Canada's major LNG projects have been canceled indefinitely or postponed over government red tape, excessive regulation, disproportionate environmental and aboriginal resistance and what can arguably be called frivolous law suits, similar to Sawyers new case.

In essence, these problems have forced Canada to concede its earlier lead even though the country enjoys distance advantages, including an established conventional natural gas industry, political stability, geographic proximity to Asian markets and large reserves of shale gas that continue to be discovered. Related: War-Torn Yemen Restarts Oil Exports

Canadas inability to field at least one major LNG project made the gas rich country not only lose out to the U.S., but its likely that Canada will not be able to ever catch up. In 2011, things look brighter, when at least 20 Canadian LNG project proposals, 14 in BC, three in Quebec, and one in Nova Scotia, were being considered - with a total proposed export capacity of 257 Million tons per annum (mtpa) of LNG (approximately 34 Billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of natural gas). Canadas only operational LNG terminal (an import terminal) is Canaport LNGs regasification import terminal located in Saint John, New Brunswick.

Canada lost its best change of entering the global LNG export sector when Malaysian state-owned oil major Petronas finally pulled out of its proposed C$36bn Pacific Northwest LNG project in 2017 after years of legal, regulatory and environmental battles, in what media in the country lamented as Canada's inability to get things right. Dennis McConaghy, a former senior executive at TransCanada called the decision a tragedy for Canada  a real condemnation of this country and the utterly unproductive entities in it that simply make any development virtually impossible.

The Toronto-based Financial Post said at the time that one of the main reasons for the Petronas cancellation was government mishandling. Other LNG project proposals in BC have suffered similar fates, while both provincial and national politicians seem to blame each other.

An editorial in the Calgary Herald said that the death of the Petronas LNG project was a wakeup call for Canada, adding that it should shake Canadian politicians and citizens out of their anti-energy stupor. However, if the Petronas cancellation was a wakeup call for Canada, it appears that nobody was listening.

By Tim Daiss for Oilprice.com

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The Trump administration is taking the aggressive move of not only trying to freeze fuel economy standards for the nations cars and light duty trucks, but it is also attempting to neuter Californias unique authority to set its own standards. However, California plans on fighting back.

Californias ability to set its own fuel economy standards dates back decades, an authority granted to the state because of horrific smog that suffocated parts of the state in the 1960s and 1970s.

Because of the Trump administrations attempt to weaken fuel economy standards  by freezing them in 2020 at 37 miles per gallon, instead of allowing them to ratchet up to over 50 mpg by 2025  California is about to move to decouple its regulations from that of the federal government. A dozen other states that follow Californias lead would likely follow suit. By attempting to go it alone, forging forward with ever-tighter fuel efficiency requirements, California hopes to drag the auto industry along with it despite the Trump administration.



In case someone might think that the change in federal standards would make it easier to comply in California, it was very important for us to make clear that this is not the case, Mary Nichols, head of Californias Air Resources Board, told Bloomberg.

Nichols said that even if the Trump administration is successful at gutting Californias authority, the state could use other means to get what it wants, including limiting vehicle registrations, fees and other taxes to continue to induce cuts in greenhouse gas emissions.

The Trump administration is not looking for compromise and is moving to strip the state of its authority to set its own standards. The looser fuel standards could increase U.S. oil demand by 500,000 bpd by 2029.

However, there are a series of state level policies that could help California and other parts of the country to continue to push forward in spite of the Trump administrations efforts. The Energy Realpolitik blog at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) suggests a feebate program that puts a tax on gas guzzling cars and SUVs, with the proceeds used as a rebate for the purchase of electric vehicles. This would be immune to federal interference.

Also, large corporations could drive EV adoption through their fleets, just as large corporations have accelerated the adoption of renewable energy, CFR argues. Companies like UPS and FedEx are conducting large-scale tests of EVs in their fleets, which makes sense giving the amount of miles their vehicles log on a daily basis. Related: Pakistan: Exxon Is Close To Making A Mega Oil Discovery

These companies could put pressure on state governments to provide incentives for EV infrastructure, preferential lane access and the like. Municipalities across the country could adopt similar measures where applicable. Electric buses offer a ton of low hanging fruit, saving cities on the expense of fuel while also cleaning up the air. Taken together, municipal and state level policies can avoid backsliding on fuel efficiency even as the federal government tries to water down requirements on automakers.

Meanwhile, international markets are not going to simply follow the whims of the Trump administration. China is aggressively pushing forward with EV adoption, hoping to phase out the sale of vehicles using the internal combustion engine. A growing number of governments in Europe have also set deadlines to ban the sale of gas and diesel-powered vehicles.

In that sense, the automakers themselves might not find it all that advantageous to bet on Trumps retrograde energy policy. If the Big Three automakers put all of their chips on gas guzzling vehicles, they will be burned by international competitors as the times pass them by. It would be insane for Detroit to think that the battle over fuel efficiency will end here, with the Trump administration freezing time by gutting fuel efficiency requirements. A future administration could simply tighten fuel economy standards all over again. Related: Crackdown Looms As Maduro Survives Assassination Attempt

Moreover, as CFR notes, over time it is going to be increasingly costly for major auto companies to maintain two production lines, one for inefficient gas guzzlers and one for more efficient cars and/or EVs. Even if the Trump administration can prevent a patchwork of policies at the state level by taking away Californias regulatory authority, the auto market in the rest of the world will continue its transition towards electrification. American automakers will lose global market share if they pursue the scorched-earth strategy of the Trump administration.

As big car companies make long-term investments, they would be wise to take a long-term view. That is, just about everyone agrees that the internal combustion engine will eventually go the way of the coal plant  increasingly obsolete both in terms of environmental policy, but more importantly, increasingly uncompetitive with alternatives.

How fast the energy transition occurs does indeed depend quite a bit on government policy, but there is a lot that states and municipalities can do. And for automakers, they may feel like they were given a gift with the deregulatory bonanza underway in Washington, but the energy transition continues, and there are a lot of risks in not getting ahead of the curve.

By Nick Cunningham of Oilprice.com

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Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has begun rounding up suspects after he avoided an attempted assassination over the weekend, raising the possibility of yet another security clampdown on the already suffering nation.

A series of drones carrying explosives reportedly detonated near Maduro, but failed to kill him. The attacks, carried out during a military parade, sent soldiers fleeing as chaos spread. Maduro appeared on state TV a few hours later declaring that the investigation into the attack was already in an advanced stage, and that suspects were in custody. He accused the Colombian government as well as unnamed financiers based in the U.S. state of Florida of supporting the attack.

Maduro is eager to pin the attack on the United States and Colombia, a consistent theme that is critical to his political legitimacy. There is evidence that officials from the governments of the U.S. and Colombia were aware of a previous coup attempt, and it is entirely conceivable that they had some sort of knowledge about the latest attack, although both governments denied any involvement.

But at this point, with the country shattered, the threat from within is undeniably real. An anonymous group called Soldados de Franela (T-Shirt Soldiers) claimed responsibility.

The attack can be interpreted in different ways. One could argue that an attempted assassination will be used as a pretext to tighten the stranglehold that the Maduro regime has over the country. But it also offers some pretty damming evidence that his grip is shaky.

Understandably, Maduro would not want this to be the takeaway, as it would cripple the aura of his control and power. Authoritarian leaders like Maduro need to make people think they are invulnerable, David Smilde, a sociologist at Tulane University in New Orleans, told Bloomberg But the optics were terrible. I think it could definitely spark other peoples imaginations. Related: Locked Into Hedges, Shale Misses Out On Oil Price Rally

Ultimately, his survival depends on how long the armed forces stick by him. That is exactly why Maduro began stacking PDVSA with military loyalists last year, sacking leadership and putting Manuel Quevedo, a major general in the Venezuelan military, in charge of the state-owned oil company. The logic being that by handing over the most lucrative aspects of the state to the military, and bringing in the armed forces into the looting of state coffers, their well-being becomes intertwined with the survival of the Maduro regime itself.

That arrangement might work for a period of time, but its not necessarily true that the military needs Maduro to maintain control over the oil sector. And to the extent that cracks in Maduros control over the state begin to grow, his position becomes all the more tenuous.

Theres no way to know what would happen if the next coup attempt is more successful. But whether or not Maduro stays in power, oil production is heading down. Perhaps that is why oil traders didnt focus all that much on the events unfolding in Caracas.



I think in some ways the reason the market hasnt reactedproduction is falling so much already. Exports are only about 1.2, 1.3 million barrels per day and it continues to decline, Amrita Sen, chief oil analyst at Energy Aspects, told CNBC. Having said that, there are also those who believe that if there is a new government that comes in, perhaps you could see production could go up. But even if that were to happen, its going to take years. Related: Goldman Sachs Expects Very, Very Tight Oil Market

Venezuelas oil production fell to 1.24 mb/d in July, down 670,000 bpd over the past year. There are few, if any, examples of such a catastrophic declines in production in history outside of wartime. Because Maduro has presided over the collapse of the nations oil industry, it may be tempting to assume that his ouster could lead to a recovery.

But Venezuela has never sustained a production increase of more than 160,000 bpd for more than a few years at a time, and by all accounts, reversing the current decline would at the very least require a stable political context, some sort of macroeconomic rescue package and debt restructuring, billions of dollars of fresh investment in the nations oil fields, and lots of time. Needless to say, none of that seems even remotely feasible in the short-term, even if there were a change in leadership.

It remains to be seen what the most recent attempted assassination will mean for the near future of Venezuela. But if anything is certain, it is the ongoing losses in the nations oil production. Even still, the oil market has already somewhat incorporated those declines into pricing forecasts.

By Nick Cunningham of Oilprice.com

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The American Petroleum Institute has attacked New York Governor Andrew Cuomo for his energy agenda, which, API New York executive director Karen Moreau said in a statement, is hurting the most vulnerable members of society. The statement comes in response to Governor Cuomos refusal to renew the air quality permit of the gas-fired Competitive Power Ventures Power Plant in the state.

Governor Cuomo has sided with environmental extremists over New Yorks most vulnerable: low-income families and seniors, Moreau said. Gov. Cuomos actions to close Indian Point coupled with efforts to stifle new clean natural gas power generation are creating a manufactured, needless energy crisis throughout New York and the northeast that will harm residents in the region  disproportionately hurting low-income and elderly residents who rely upon affordable electricity to heat, cool, and power their homes.

The New York Governor is on a quest to put an end to fossil fuel and nuclear power use in the state, and this quest has already cost New Yorkers substantial increases in their utility bills.

A May report from the Consumer Energy Alliance found that New Yorkers pay some 44 percent more for electricity than their neighbors in Pennsylvania, which has abundant gas reserves and the pipelines to send this gas to New York. In January 2018, the Alliance said, spot market prices in the New York City region jumped to a record high of $140.25 for natural gas, as compared to the average natural gas spot market price for New York in 2017 was $3.08. New Yorkers were subjected to prices that were $137 higher due to self-inflicted capacity constraints created by their own elected officials.

Also in May, Governor Cuomo said all natural gas plants operating in New York will be eventually closed and that he will not approve any new gas-fired plant projects.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Firefighters battling Californias apocalyptic blaze. Photo: Mark Ralston/AFP/Getty Images

On Monday night, the Mendocino Complex wildfire became the biggest in California history  and, having burned through 283,000 acres, was just 30 percent contained. Complex is because the fire started as two distinct blazes, the Ranch and River fires, later married in one hellish flame. It is extremely fast, extremely aggressive, extremely dangerous, Scott McLean of Cal Fire told the Los Angeles Times. Look how big it got, just in a matter of days  Look how fast this Mendocino Complex went up in ranking. That doesnt happen. That just doesnt happen.

The Mendocino Complex is only one of a dozen wildfires roiling California right now. But the second record-breaking wildfire season in California within the last 12 months was hardly the days worst climate news.

In an alarming report published in the prestigious Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 16 scientists warned that  thanks to a series of dramatic positive-feedback loops they suggest might be significantly underestimated by the U.N.s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which effectively establishes the boundaries of acceptable discourse on global warming  the planet may already be heading down a far more harrowing warming path than most scientists, and certainly most nonscientists, understand.

In particular, the team of 16 scientists suggested that, while the Paris climate accords committed the world to the goal of stabilizing global warming below two degrees Celsius, in fact there may not be a natural planetary equilibrium there  and so even if we managed to hit the emissions targets consistent with only two degrees of warming, a series of accelerating climate-system feedback loops would be triggered anyway, bringing us quickly past three and even four degrees Celsius. They called this possibility the Hothouse Earth pathway, and they outlined an even darker, worst-case scenario in which feedback loops brought us up to six or even seven degrees.

How bad would this be? At four degrees of warming, according to some estimates, nearly all of Africa and Australia, most of the United States, South America north of Patagonia and Asia south of Siberia would be rendered uninhabitable by combinations of desertification and flooding. At six degrees, we would see relatively rapid sea-level rise of up to 200 feet. At seven degrees, much of the planets equatorial band would be so hot that humans could not move around outside without quickly dying. And, keep in mind: while the Paris accords articulated a goal of two degrees, the emissions commitments contained within it were far from sufficient to meet that goal; most previous estimates, which do not account for any dramatic feedback loops, suggest those commitments would only get us to 3.2 or 3.4 degrees. And no major industrialized nation is on track to meet even those commitments.

The feedback loops outlined in the PNAS article are not news, per se, and will be familiar to readers who have ever scanned the internets climate-doomsday fringes: melting arctic permafrost releases large amounts of frozen methane, more than 30 times more powerful a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide; rapid disappearance of arctic sea ice means much less sunlight is reflected back by the planet and much more of it absorbed; a collection of climate conditions transform the Amazon rain forest from a carbon sink, which eats carbon dioxide and produces oxygen, into an additional carbon producer. All three of these effects, it is worth pointing out, are already under way  the Amazon is today absorbing a third less carbon than it did just a decade ago, for instance. The open question concerning scientists is whether these effects will accelerate, and, if so, just how quickly.

The authors of the new paper do not suggest a hothouse earth is an inevitability  only that it is significantly more likely than most scientists would publicly acknowledge. A similar argument is often made casually by climate scientists, many of whom regard the IPCC as overly cautious and mindful of political realities even in its cold-seeming description of the state of the science (barely mentioning feedback loops in its reports, for instance). More dramatic versions of this charge are contained in Deep Adaptation, a new work of holistic climate alarm by Jem Bendell of the U.K.s University of Cumbria, and in a terrifying update to Australias National Center for Climate Restoration 2017 What Lies Beneath report, scheduled for release later this month.

These sorts of warnings are published with some frequency on the fringe. But the scientists behind the PNAS paper are probably the most distinguished yet to be raising this particular alarm  that the scientific community has dramatically understated the existential risk posed by climate change, and that the scientists who had previously been disregarded as alarmists may be, in fact, the more reliable guides to our near future. These tipping elements can potentially act like a row of dominoes, Johan Rockstrom, executive director of the Stockholm Resilience Centre and one of the authors of the paper, told the Independent. Once one is pushed over, it pushes Earth towards another. It may be very difficult or impossible to stop the whole row of dominoes from tumbling over.

The authors of the new paper also worry that the unprecedented months of climate disaster weve seen this summer may not be an outlier or just bad luck but a sign that the planet is already on its much more dramatic climate-change course. The heatwave we now have in Europe is not something that was expected with just 1C of warming, Rockstrom told the Guardian. (One degree is where the planet sits right now.) Several positive feedback loops are already in operation, but they are still weak, he continued. We need studies to show when they might cause a runaway effect.

Runaway is a terrifying term for those who work in climate change, and not one that gets tossed around very casually. It is typically used to refer to the kind of rapid climate devastation scientists believe once hit Venus  transforming what was once an ocean-rich planet, theoretically capable of supporting life, by literally boiling its water into the atmosphere, leaving an entirely inhospitable desert planet behind. Rockstrom and his colleagues are not predicting that, for Earth, but is very telling that they are using the word at all  it suggests they think we should at least be worrying about the possibility. By which I mean: doing much, much more to halt warming in its tracks.
Irans oil exports dropped by 7 percent to 2.32 million bpd in Julytheir lowest level in four monthsas South Korea and Europe are slashing imports ahead of the return of the U.S. sanctions on Tehran, data from S&P Global Platts showed on Tuesday.

However, Iranian oil exports to its top two customersChina and Indiacontinued to stay high last month. Exports to China rose to 799,452 bpd in July from 722,100 bpd in June, while Iranian oil sales to India increased by more than 40,000 bpd from June to 706,452 bpd in July, S&P Global Platts data shows.

Europewhich as a whole has been Irans third-biggest single customersaw imports drop to 465,450 bpd last month from 485,768 bpd in June, with demand from France, Spain, and Turkey down and purchases from Italy and Greece steadily up. In Europe, spot demand for Iranian crude is sharply down, but refiners with term contracts are still honoring them, according to sources who spoke to Platts.

Analysts expect Irans oil exports to drop more noticeably beginning in September, and the rate of decline to accelerate as the United States looks to have Irans current customers reduce Iranian oil imports to zero.

In June, although China and India held their Iranian oil purchases high, the top Asian oil importers and Iranian oil customersChina, India, Japan, and South Koreabought in June their lowest combined volume of Iranian oil in seven months, as South Korea slashed Iranian purchases. Starting in July, South Korea is halting Iranian oil imports for the first time since 2012 amid pressure from the United States to discontinue purchases from Iran.



Analysts expect the U.S. sanctions to take between 500,000 bpd and 1 million bpd of Iranian crude oil off the market when full sanctions return in early November, and some experts think that the figure will be closer to 1 million bpd.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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The American Petroleum Institute (API) reported a crude oil inventory draw of 6 million barrels of United States crude oil inventories for the week ending Aug 4, compared to analyst expectations that this week would see a draw in crude oil inventories of 3.33 million barrels.

Last week, the American Petroleum Institute (API) reported a build of 5.59 million barrels of crude oil.

The API reported a build in gasoline inventories for week ending Aug 4 in the amount of 3.1 million barrels. Analysts predicted a draw of 1.7 million barrels.

Oil prices were trading up modestly on Tuesday prior to the release of the API data on inventories, and failed to move much after data release, with WTI trading up 0.12% (+$0.08) at $69.09 per barrel, with Brent crude trading up 1.02% (+$0.75) at $74.50 per barrel as continued trade tensions with China persist and as the United States levied the first round of sanctions on Iran, with the promise of more to come in November. Muddying the waters is the mystery surrounding Saudi Arabia oil production figures which some say was up in July and others say was down

US crude oil production as estimated by the Energy Information Administration came off last week's new high of 11 million bpd, settling back down to 10. 9 million bpd this week, based on weekly estimates provided by the EIA.

Distillate inventories were up this weekby 1.8 million barrels, compared to an expected build of 220,000 barrels. Inventories at the Cushing, Oklahoma site decreased this week by 576,000 barrels.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration report on crude oil inventories is due to be released on Wednesday at 10:30a.m. EDT.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

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Tesla has started hiring personnel for its gigafactory in China, Reuters reports, citing job postings on the companys website. For now, the company is looking to hire 14 people, all in senior managerial and operating positions.

The China factory, to be built in Shanghai, is Teslas first production facility outside the United States. It signed the deal for the construction project with the Shanghai authorities only last month. It will double Teslas electric car production, beginning in two years.

The peak annual turnout of the Shanghai factory will be half a million Teslas and the same amount of battery packs, to be achieved two to three years after the launch of production, Tesla said last month after the signing of the deal with Shanghai authorities. This will put it basically on par with Teslas original factory in Fremont, California.

While initially, investments in the China factory were estimated at US$5 billion, earlier this month Tesla said the facility will actually cost much less: just US$2 billion, as CEO Elon Musk told investors during the conference call for the companys second-quarter financial results.

Since Tesla is not exactly in the best free cash flow place for the time being, there have been questions about how it will raise the funds for the projects. Apparently, it plans to tap Chinese investors to help foot the bill for the facility.

A more solid presence in China is just as importantor not morefor Tesla as it is for all other carmakers, especially those with ambitious EV plans for the future. The country is already the biggest EV market in the world, and this state of affairs is set to continue as Beijing doubles down on its plans to reduce pollution and dependence on oil imports.

Whats more, however, is that Teslas sales in China have been threatened by the tariff war between Washington and Beijing, which has seen the carmaker up prices for its cars by a solid US$30,000, Bloomberg noted in a recent report. If it produces Teslas locally, prices will be affordable for a lot more Chinese buyers, securing future sales.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Humans would have first seen Kata Tjuta very shortly after arriving in Australia 50,000 years ago. Credit: Alan Cooper, Author provided

Many Aboriginal Australians would say with conviction that they have always been here. Their ancestors and traditional learnings tell them of this history, and their precise place within it.

Our review of the scientific evidence, published today in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggests that for all practical purposes, this is indeed the case.

Their ancestors arrived shortly after 50,000 years ago  effectively forever, given that modern human populations only moved out of Africa 50,000-55,000 years ago.

Long connection to country

Earlier genetic analysis of historic Aboriginal hair samples confirmed the incredibly long and deep relationships between individual Aboriginal groups and their particular country. The small locks of hair were collected during anthropological expeditions across Australia from the 1920s to the 1960s.

Analysis of maternal genetic lineages revealed that Aboriginal populations moved into Australia around 50,000 years ago. They rapidly swept around the west and east coasts in parallel movementsmeeting around the Nullarbor just west of modern-day Adelaide.

Archaeological sites and dates (shown above) closely match the genetic estimates. This indicates a very rapid movement throughout Australia 48,000-50,000 years ago.

Out of Africa

It was only a few thousand years earlier that a small population of modern humans moved out of Africa. As they did, they met and briefly hybridised with Neandertals before rapidly spreading around the world.

They became the genetic ancestors of all surviving modern human populations outside of Africa, who are all characterised by a distinctive small subset of Neandertal DNA  around 2.5%  preserved in their genomes.

This distinctive marker is found in Aboriginal populations, indicating they are part of this original diaspora, but one that must have moved to Australia almost immediately after leaving Africa.

How to get to Australia 50,000 years ago

The movement from Africa to Australia culminated in a series of hazardous sea voyages across island southeast Asia.

Recent studies suggest the last voyage, potentially between Timor/Roti and the northern Kimberley coast, would have involved advanced planning skills, four to seven days paddling on a raft, and a total group of more than 100 to 400 people.

The possibility that earlier waves of modern human populations might have moved out of Africa before 50,000 years has also been raised.

But in our review of these events, we point out that there is no convincing fossil evidence to support this idea beyond the Middle East.

One of the most important claimed potential early sites is in northern Australia, at Madjedbebe, a rock shelter in Arnhem Land. Human presence here was recently declared at more than 65,000 years ago.

This 65,000-year date has rapidly become accepted as the age for colonisation of Australia. It has appeared widely in the media and elsewhere, in political statements and comments by the Prime Minister.

But there is good reason to question a 65,000-year date, and the extent to which this contrasts with the sudden wave of archaeological sites that sweep across Australia shortly after 50,000 years ago.

These sites include Barrow Island and Carpenters Gap in the Kimberley, Devils Lair south of Perth, Willandra Lakes in NSW, and Warratyi rockshelter in the Flinders Ranges.

This rapid archaeological manifestation at 50,000 years is a perfect match for the genetic evidence from Aboriginal maternal, paternal, and genomic lineages, and a far better fit with the extinction of Australia's megafauna around 42,000 years ago.

An age limit for human migration

One of the most interesting ways we can date the dispersal of modern humans around the globe, including Australia, is through that original interbreeding event with Neandertals as we left Africa.

About a decade ago, an ancient human leg bone was found on the banks of a Siberian river by an ivory hunter. Radiocarbon-dated at 43,000-45,000 years ago, the entire genome of this individual, named Ust'-Ishim after the site, was sequenced using the latest ancient DNA technology.

The genomic sequence revealed the bone contained the standard 2.5% Neandertal DNA signal carried by all non-Africans. But it was still present in large continuous blocks and had yet not been dispersed into fragments around the genome as we see in more recent ancestors and ourselves.

In fact, the size of the blocks showed that the 43,000-45,000-year-old Ust'-Ishim specimen could only be a maximum of 230-430 generations after that initial Neandertal liaison, dating our movement out of Africa to no more than 50,000-55,000 years ago.

50,000 years, or more than 65,000 years?

Given the evidence is so strong that the ancestors of modern human populations only started moving around the world 50,000-55,000 years ago, could the human activity at Madjedbebe really be more than 65,000 years old?

One of the major limitations of the Madjedbebe study is that the stone artefacts themselves weren't dated, just the surrounding sand layers.

As a result, over time, even the slightest downward movement of the artefacts within the unconsolidated sand layers at Madjedbebe would make them appear too old.

We identify a range of factors which are common around the site, such as termite burrowing and heavy rainfall, that could cause stone artefacts to sink.

Many archaeological signs suggest activity at Madjedbebe is actually much younger than 65,000 years, and overall, the extent to which the site is an outlier to the rest of the Australian record should raise a red flag.

Connection to country

Either way, Aboriginal Australians have effectively been on their country as long as modern human populations have been outside of Africa.

How does this help us better understand Aboriginal history? By appreciating the enormous depth of time that Aboriginal groups have been on their own particular country, and the extent to which all their history, knowledge, and ancestors form part of that country.

It is this gulf between a European history of constant migration and global dispersal, and the profoundly deep Aboriginal connection to one particular part of the world, that leads to failures to comprehend why being on country is not simply "a lifestyle choice", but a fundamental part of their identity.

Explore further Buried tools and pigments tell a new history of humans in Australia for 65,000 years

More information: James F. O'Connell et al. When didHomo sapiensfirst reach Southeast Asia and Sahul?, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2018). Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences James F. O'Connell et al. When didHomo sapiensfirst reach Southeast Asia and Sahul?,(2018). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1808385115
Purdue University's professor of political science Eric Waltenburg and assistant professor of computer science Dan Goldwasser have teamed up to design a forecasting model that uses data science to determine the votes of state legislators. Credit: Purdue University

When the United States pulled out of the Paris Climate Accord last year, 20 statesincluding New York and Californiaresolved to form a new, nonfederal agreement to address climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.

According to Purdue University professor of political science Eric Waltenburg, many meaningful policy decisions such as this take place at the state level but are largely ignored by the public. He is collaborating with Dan Goldwasser, assistant professor of computer science, to help people better understand the impact of decisions made at the state level. Together they lead a project focused on developing a forecasting model to predict state legislator voting behavior.

"If our project works like I'm hoping it does, it will open up the policy-making process and people will have a better sense as to what legislative outcomes may be," Waltenburg said. "It would demystify the state legislative process for the public."

State legislatures are assemblies of elected members who vote on laws and policy for their state. In a roll call vote, each legislator's name is called, and they must indicate on record whether they are for or against a particular piece of legislation. Using public sources such as Twitter, political blogs, newspaper accounts and historical roll-call data from the past decade, computer scientists working with Waltenburg will use machine learning techniques to predict which way a legislator may vote on a particular bill.

"What we're trying to do is identify key forces  I refer to them as revealed preferences  among legislators and use those preferences to predict outcomes," Waltenburg said. "We have huge amounts of historical roll-call data at the state level, and with that data we're able to produce relational matrices for how each legislator votes in relation to every other member of the legislature."

Ultimately, they aim to produce a website where people could go to predict the outcome of a particular piece of legislation. Goldwasser added that the impact of decisions made at the state level are more significant than people think, despite the fact that they will not get the same coverage as those made at the national level.

"We're really hoping that this would be a public service that allows people to hold their representatives accountable and at least make more informed decisions when they go to the polls," Goldwasser said.

By the end of the summer, their project will have expanded beyond the state of Indiana to Oregon and Wisconsin, where they will test their forecasting model on the lower-level chambers of those states. Ultimately, they would like to transform their model from static to dynamic, bringing in real-time data from Twitter and other online sources so that the model can adapt the relational matrix as the revealed preferences come in.

"One of the questions we are asking is, how can we use online resources such as Twitter or news coverage to dynamically update the model that we have about those preferences?" Goldwasser said. "When how a state legislator is going to behave is not explicitly mentioned, we can learn to infer their behavior."

The team has a static model for the Indiana House but would ultimately like to develop a forecasting model for all states and their chambers. Their project was one of eight selected by the Purdue's Integrative Data Science Initiative to be funded for a two-year period. The initiative will encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and build on Purdue's strengths to position the university as a leader in data science research and focus on one of four areas: health care; defense; ethics, society and policy; and fundamentals, methods, and algorithms. The research thrusts of the Integrative Data Science Initiative is hosted by Purdue's Discovery Park.

"Although the idea of predicting legislative votes is a pretty conventional political science topic, Dan's expertise allows us to develop a forecasting model that goes well beyond where most political scientists have gotten," said Waltenburg. "The project we are working on is a great example of how Purdue's resources and faculty help each other implement ideas and collaborate across campus and disciplines."
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Vaccinating livestock against foot-and-mouth disease could help to reduce poverty in eastern Africa, according to new research.

The study, led by the University of Glasgow and published today in Nature Ecology and Evolution, found that a vaccination programme targeting the circulating strains of foot-and-mouth disease in livestock, could help to alleviate poverty in eastern Africa.

The research, led by the University's Boyd Orr Centre for Population and Ecosystem Health, looked at the causes and effects of foot-and-mouth disease in Tanzania, surveying farming households in the area and examining how the disease passed to livestock.

The team found that foot-and-mouth disease is a major concern among local people and that it has a high economic burden due to major reductions in milk production and sales, with devastating consequences on communities reliant on milk as a protein source.

The occurrence of disease in a household also has potentially serious effects on human health. Households burdened with the cost of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak in their livestock typically spend around 25% less on human health.

The authors also tested livestock for past exposure to different types (named serotypes) of the foot-and-mouth disease virus, many of which are present in Tanzanian livestock and wild buffalo populations, hindering control. They found that the disease passes through eastern Africa in slow waves of specific virus types.

Crucially, they also found that, unlike in southern Africa, it is rare for livestock to become infected with foot-and-mouth disease from wild buffalo, which suggests that strategies to separate wildlife and livestock are unlikely to be effective in combatting the disease.

Lead author Dr. Tiziana Lembo said: "In East Africa, foot-and-mouth disease control policies targeting the most affected communities have been constrained by a limited understanding of the role of wildlife in transmission to livestock, particularly in areas where both populations live in close proximity.

"Our research demonstrates that disease risks are driven by livestock- rather than wildlife-related factors. This suggests that strategies focusing on separation of susceptible livestock and buffalo, such as veterinary fences widely used in southern Africa, would have little effect in terms of reducing livestock infection in eastern Africa and could severely impact the preservation of Tanzanian unique ecosystems."

The study concludes that the early detection of currently circulating virus types, coupled with proactive serotype-specific vaccination, could cost-effectively mitigate the economic and health impacts of foot-and-mouth disease in eastern Africa.

Joint first author Dr. Richard Reeve adds: "The ongoing eradication campaign in South America relies on mass vaccination with a vaccine that protects against multiple serotypes simultaneously to cover all eventualities, as did the successful historical approach in Europe. However, no vaccines currently exist that are tuned to the serotypes circulating in sub-Saharan Africa, so this is not an option.

"The discovery that single serotypes are in fact moving in slow epidemic waves across the landscape offers a viable alternative: if we can quickly identify the current epidemic strain then we have the ability to deploy an appropriate (and available) serotype-specific vaccine to interrupt its spread and reduce its impact on the rural poor in these regions."

In Africa foot-and-mouth disease is estimated to account for livestock production losses of around $2.3 billion each year. While large-scale vaccination strategies against foot-and-mouth disease have been implemented across southern Africa, control of the disease has been minimal in the east of the continent, where little is known about its local epidemiology.

Livestock production in Africa is key to national economies, food security and rural livelihoods, however around 85% of livestock keepers live in extreme poverty. Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious livestock disease widespread in Africa that contributes to this poverty.

The study, "Waves of endemic foot-and-mouth disease in eastern Africa suggest feasibility of proactive vaccination approaches," is published today in Nature Ecology and Evolution.

Explore further Simple sampling method eases identification of foot and mouth disease outbreaks

More information: Miriam Casey-Bryars et al. Waves of endemic foot-and-mouth disease in eastern Africa suggest feasibility of proactive vaccination approaches, Nature Ecology & Evolution (2018). Journal information: Nature Ecology & Evolution Miriam Casey-Bryars et al. Waves of endemic foot-and-mouth disease in eastern Africa suggest feasibility of proactive vaccination approaches,(2018). DOI: 10.1038/s41559-018-0636-x
Periwinkles. Credit: University of Sheffield

Periwinkles, struggling to survive the seashore battleground, have developed a genetic 'toolkit' to help them adapt to different environments, a new study shows.

This toolkit has enabled the snail to develop different characteristics according to whether it lives mainly on parts of the sea shore where crabs are a constant threat, or in rocky places where it is disturbed by waves.

A team of researchers from the University of Sheffield, in the UK, and the University of Gothenburg, in Sweden, investigated hundreds of rough periwinkles, collected from seashores on the west coast of Sweden.

They noted their shell form and exact position on the shore, and then analysed their genomes to try to find out how these adaptations occurred to give the snails the best chance of survival.

The results, published in Evolution Letters, showed the snails' characteristics changed significantly at the point on the shore where the crabs disappear and the wave action gets stronger.

Anja Westram, postdoctoral researcher at the University of Sheffield, who led the analysis, explains: "Either side of the habitat transition, the snails look like different species. Snails on the boulder shore have thicker shells, which are a better defence against crabs. The smaller, cliff shells have a wide opening, so the snail's foot can attach more securely to rocks, to defend against waves. And across 10-20m of shore in between these areas, we found all kinds of intermediate forms."

But when the team analysed the periwinkles' genetic data to try to discover how these changes occurred, they uncovered some surprising results.

They identified around 1,000 genes that differed between snails in the 'crab' and 'wave' environments but, instead of being spread throughout the genome, most of them were clustered in specific regions across just three chromosomes. The researchers concluded that the chromosomes were holding together sets of genes to help the snails adapt to different environments.

"This study gives us a fascinating insight into how animals and plants might cope when faced with contrasting environments," says Professor Roger Butlin, of Sheffield's Department of Animal and Plant Sciences who led the study. "Rather than many genes having to respond separately to natural selection, this creates a ready-made 'toolkit' on these three chromosomes that has allowed the snail to adapt more rapidly."

The sea shore in Sweden could only have been colonised by the periwinkles some time after the end of the last ice age, around 5-6,000 years ago. As periwinkles reproduce annually, that means these adaptations must have occurred within 5-6,000 generations- a rapid change in evolutionary terms.

The team is now looking at other shores around Europe to investigate how widely the same adaptive toolkit is used by the periwinkles. They are also looking at other species of periwinkle to find out more about how the sets of genes were put together.

"Our aim is to better understand the origin of the species, but also to understand how quickly animals and plants are able to cope with environmental challenges," adds Professor Butlin.

Explore further New 'scaly' snails species group following striking discoveries from Malaysian Borneo

More information: Anja M. Westram et al, Clines on the seashore: The genomic architecture underlying rapid divergence in the face of gene flow, Evolution Letters (2018). Anja M. Westram et al, Clines on the seashore: The genomic architecture underlying rapid divergence in the face of gene flow,(2018). DOI: 10.1002/evl3.74
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

There has been a rise in global statistical initiatives that measure and rank countries in terms of various aspects of the human condition. Some of the more prominent examples include the Human Development Index, the World Governance Indicators, the Global Peace Index and the Corruption Perceptions Index.

Each ranks countries according to a series of indicators, or a composite indicator, and tracks their progress or decline over time.

One of the most recent global indicator projects is the Gallup Law and Order Index. It ranks 142 countries based on a perception survey relating to personal safety and policing, from a representative sample of 1000 people in each country. Knowing how secure, or insecure people feel is important because insecurity affects economic growth and undermines development.

According to the recently released 2018 law and order index, South Africa ranks high in the insecurity index  137 out 142 countries. This means that South Africans would have expressed high levels of insecurity as well as fear that they were likely to, or had already, fallen victim to crime.

The ranking suggests that South Africans consider themselves to be more insecure, and having lower levels of confidence in the police, compared to people in Yemen, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Central African Republic (CAR), Libya and Mali. These are all unstable states affected by violent conflict and high levels of instability.

This is surprising given that South Africa is not in state of armed conflict and is relatively stable. The possible reason for such a questionable ranking is that the survey, like many global perception surveys, doesn't adequately account for the extent to which people will provide unreliable information about sensitive issues. To improve accuracy, surveys like this should factor in differences in context.

The rankings

The rankings are based on an index score derived from responses to the following questions:

In the city or area where you live, do you have confidence in the local police force?

Do you feel safe walking alone at night in the city or area where you live?

Within the last 12 months, have you had money or property stolen from you or another household member?

Within the past 12 months, have you been assaulted or mugged?

It's undeniable that South Africa has high levels of insecurity and interpersonal crime. And, there's a significant trust deficit between citizens and the police.

For example, the StatsSA 2016/17 Victims of Crime Survey showed that only 30% of South African's reported feeling safe walking at night in their neighbourhoods. Only 57% of households reported that they were "satisfied" with the police in their communities. And the country has very high levels of crime.

Nevertheless, it seems odd that South Africa is ranked below countries like Yemen, which has been in the throes of an intense civil war for several years, the Central African Republic and Libya, which have been acutely affected by insurgency, criminality and weak law and order institutions.

Ranking South Africa below the DRC, Mali and Libya is also questionable given that the security forces and militias in those countries have been widely regarded as predatory and highly abusive.

So what's missing?

Context

Firstly, context is key.

A key shortcoming of using survey data about crime and insecurity to construct indices and rankings is that people won't always reply to questions honestly and accurately.

In stable democracies respondents will often give precise and truthful responses as there is little or no fear of reprisals from the state. Conversely, in unstable countries that have repressive governments, research shows that citizens are less willing to provide accurate information about personal experiences of crime and policing. This is because they fear there may be negative repercussions for them and their families.

Secondly, as research method experts have argued, survey responses can also be influenced by a variety of societal norms, particularly those related to privacy and dignity, in which sensitive matters aren't easily discussed with strangers.

In South Africa, citizens are generally willing to talk openly about crime and to criticise the police. But, this isn't the case in many other African and Latin American countries that were rated as being safer. These include DRC, Libya, Honduras and Mexico.

This is not to say that constructing indices about crime victimisation and policing on a country basis is irrelevant. But the danger of indicators like this, and adopting a ranking approach without careful consideration of the context in which the data is gathered, is that it could lead to wrong perceptions about crime and policing. That may even reinforce the use of militarised policing strategies, which will further undermine human security over less aggressive and more integrated approaches to crime prevention. Examples of where this has happened include Brazil, Mexico and South Africa.

To improve the accuracy of indices like this, it would be advisable to develop a quantifiable weighting for the reliability of crime and insecurity survey data for each country, and then apply the weighting to the overall index score. For example, in countries with more authoritarian governments, respondents are likely to under report their levels of trust in the police and sense of personal insecurity.

Applying a reliability weighting would adjust the overall insecurity index score to better reflect people's lived reality. Such a weighting can be developed by including additional questions in the survey, for example about how willing respondents are to talk to strangers about sensitive information, including views about their governments.

Explore further How people view crime depends on the politics of when they were growing up

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Last week, EPA and the Department of Transportation proposed a retreat on Obama-era auto pollution and energy efficiency rules. According to New York Times environmental reporter Coral Davenport:

"The proposed new rules would also challenge the right of states, California in particular, to set their own, more stringent tailpipe pollution standards.  The plan, jointly published by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Transportation Department, would roll back a 2012 rule that required automakers to nearly double the fuel economy of passenger vehicles to an average of about 54 miles per gallon by 2025. It would halt requirements that automakers build cleaner, more fuel-efficient cars including hybrids and electric vehicles. [The] rulewas opposed by automakers who said it was overly burdensome. However, Thursday's proposal goes much further than many major automakers wanted, and manufacturers are now worried that years of legal challenges and regulatory uncertainty could complicate their business."

Almost half a century ago, the 1970 Clean Air Act gave California the right to set more stringent air quality standards than the federal government and gave other states the right to follow California's lead. This provision of the Clean Air Act was necessary because California already had a very aggressive air pollution control program, and in the spirit of state's rights under our federal political system, Congress accepted California's demand to do more than the rest of the country. The smog in Los Angeles motivated California to get serious about air pollution control well before the rest of the country did. After half a century of effort, LA's air is decent, and no Californian wants to go back to the bad old days; America's air wasn't so great back then.

Andrew Wheeler, EPA's new acting administrator, certainly knows that if this proposed rule is actually issued, it will be hung up in court battles for years. Meanwhile, while the courts adjudicate, the existing regulation may remain in effect. For auto manufacturers, the proposed new rule is a disaster, although it is one of their own making. Manufacturers need certainty in the regulatory environment to make investments in capital equipment and research. By complaining about the Obama rule, manufacturers may end up with one set of rules for California and the states that follow California's lead, and one for the rest of the country. Like California, the global market wants more fuel efficient, low and zero pollution vehicles. The auto business is global, but the Trump Administration continues to make economic policy better suited to the less global 1970 economy than fully global economy we see in 2018.

Unless the Clean Air Act is amended, or the Supreme Court becomes as dysfunctional as the other two branches of the federal government, the Court will have no choice but throw out the new regulationespecially the part that preempts California's rules. But the process of litigating these new rules will take time, and during this time auto manufacturers in the rest of the world will be busy building more fuel-efficient cars and transitioning from the internal combustion engine to electric vehicles. Our auto companies would be prudent to adhere to the Obama-era standards anyway, since one way or another our personal transportation needs to be based on renewable, non-polluting fuels.

But reality takes a back seat to ideology in this administration. Incredibly enough, they are trying to justify larger, heavier and less fuel-efficient cars with the argument that they are safer than those that are lighter and more fuel efficient. This is almost as ridiculous as the argument that renewable energy, because it is intermittent, makes the electrical grid less reliable and that "lack of reliability" is a threat to national security. The Trump energy policy emphasizes heavy, inefficient cars, coal-fired power plants and drilling for fossil fuels wherever they might be. While the technology of motor vehicles, renewable energy generation and battery storage advances everywhere, the ideologues running our national government think the answer is to turn back the clock. Perhaps they think that the best way to make America great again is to build a time machine and go back to the 1950s.

The people running our corporations know they are in a fiercely competitive global economy. America has dominated that economy with its ability to develop and deploy new technologies. It's true that the Obama era auto standards would have been a challenge to the auto industry. So was JFK's 1961 goal of reaching the moon before 1970. But these ambitious goals are technology-forcing. They require us to be creative and ingenious risk takersand that turns out to be a very good thing in the global brain-based economy.

The internal combustion engine replaced the horse and buggy nearly a century ago. Given the pace of technological change now underway, we are only a few advances away from a cheaper and more long-lasting battery. That breakthrough will result in an electric car that is less expensive to buy and run than current motor vehicles. At that point the new car market will be dominated by the electric car. The only thing that might hold it back is a corrupt or ideological bias toward fossil fuels. Imagine the lobbying: "America has all this investment in fossil fuel extraction, refining, distribution and sales." "We must protect this critical national industry!" "For the sake of national security!" Arnold Schwarzenegger says it best in a wonderful video where he argues that "coal is the Blockbuster Video of fuel sources."

The transition to a renewable resource-based economy requires ingenuity and technological innovation. Innovation can be stimulated or blocked by government policies. The space program gave us smaller computers and advanced water filtration technology. The auto industry, like most businesses, has long opposed nearly every form of regulation proposed by government. They opposed seat belts and air bags for safety. They opposed the catalytic converter for smog control. They opposed gasoline mileage standards that save consumers money on fuel. And the list goes on. But today's motor vehicle is safer, more reliable and more efficient than the cars of the mid-20th century. Government pushed this along, but it was the engineers and the growing technical capacity of the auto industry that made these policies operational and real. When the team that figured out how to make a car more fuel efficient and safe finished that work, they started in on computerizing the mechanical elements of the car and then started working on self-driving vehicles. This is the conclusion of a careful study of this issue by the late Professor Ann Johnson of Cornell University. According to Professor Johnson:

"In the case of automotive innovations, it is clear that high emissions standards did force the development of new technologies by jumpstarting a quest to improve the car, to make it less environmentally taxing and harmful to human health. More importantly, the continually escalating emissions standards, exemplified here by increasingly stringent nitrogen oxides standards, led to fundamental changes in the car that made it not only less polluting but also more reliable as a (largely unanticipated) byproduct of computerization. Cars also have become much safer through regulation, with deaths per miles driven dropping from approximately 20.6 deaths per 100,000 people in 1975 to about 10.3 per 100,000 in 2013a drop of 50 percent."

Shortly after Donald Trump became president, the auto industry started to lobby for a rollback of the mileage standards. At that time I wrote a piece about the "Can't Do Approach of the American Auto Industry" and observed that:

"Until President Trump's election, the auto manufacturers supported the ambitious emissions and fuel efficiency goals set by the Obama Administration. Now, with the chance to escape these requirements, they are lobbying to get rid of them. They complain about cost and feasibility, when they should welcome the opportunity to develop the technology needed to modernize their product line."

Our goal should be to develop a high throughput economy that preserves the planet while enabling the entire world to live as we do in the developed world. To do this we need to develop both a deeper understanding of our planet and the technology to deliver material goods without destroying our environment. Anti-regulatory ideology is an obstacle to the development of the technology needed to transition to environmental sustainability.

Explore further Trump administration seeks rollback of Obama-era fuel efficiency rules

Provided by Earth Institute, Columbia University

This story is republished courtesy of Earth Institute, Columbia University http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu.
The study is part of a long-term effort to understand the invasive crayfish and eliminate or reduce their numbers. Credit: U.S. Geological Survey

Invasive red swamp crayfish are a serious problem in the Santa Monica Mountains and other parts of Southern California. They devastate native wildlife, including threatened species such as the California red-legged frog, throwing off the natural balance of ecosystems.

They also pose a threat to people, according to a new paper in the journal Conservation Biology. The study is based on field research in the Santa Monica Mountains and lab experiments at UCLA La Kretz Center for California Conservation Science.

Mosquitos are notorious vectors that spread diseases such as malaria, Zika and West Nile virus. In the mountains, mosquito populations are kept in check by dragonfly nymphs, which voraciously consume their aquatic larvae. But invasive crayfish disrupt that predator-prey relationship, killing and driving dragonfly nymphs from waterways. And while crayfish also consume mosquito larvae, they're simply not as good at it, the researchers found.

"A lot of people don't know this but before dragonflies are flying around and beautiful, they actually are these voracious predators in streams and ponds," said Gary Bucciarelli, a UCLA conservation biologist and the paper's lead author. "They do a great job of preying on other invertebrates in the streams we work on."

After noticing that streams with the crayfish had almost no dragonfly nymphs and lots of mosquito larvae, Bucciarelli and other scientists decided to investigate further. They looked at 13 streams in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Dragonfly nymph. Credit: U.S. Geological Survey

"There tended to be sites where we found a ton of mosquito larvae and very few dragonfly nymphs," Bucciarelli said. "And in streams where there were no crayfish, we found the opposite patterna ton of dragonfly nymphs and no mosquito larvae."

They took their research to the next step with controlled experiments in a laboratory. They set up tanks with only crayfish, tanks with only dragonfly nymphs and tanks that had both. The dragonfly nymphs alone wiped out mosquito larvae, while crayfish were much less efficient. And in tanks with both, the crayfish disrupted the predator-prey relationship so severely that there were as many mosquito larvae as there were in the tanks with only crayfish.

"The dragonfly nymphs don't know what to do with crayfish," Bucciarelli said. "We observed strange behaviors. They were even resting on their claws. The presence of crayfish disrupts their behavior and essentially turns them into worthless predators."

The findings have implications beyond Southern California. The red swamp crayfish is a globally invasive species that affects every continent except Antarctica. In many locations, Bucciarelli said, the crayfish harm entire ecosystems by disrupting patterns of predators and preyjust as they do with dragonfly nymphs and mosquito larvae.

The Las VirgenesTriunfo Joint Powers Authority, which provides wastewater services, recycled water and other services within the Malibu Creek watershed, partnered with UCLA, Pepperdine University and Mountains Restoration Trust on today's research. The project is part of a long-term effort to understand the invasive crayfish and eliminate or reduce their numbers as much as possible. The original intent was to protect endangered and threatened species, but today's findings reveal a human impact that hasn't previously been examined, said Robert Fisher, a U.S. Geological Survey research biologist and co-author of the study.

Red-legged frog. Credit: U.S. Geological Survey

"We recovered five miles of Malibu watershed. Just by removing the crayfish, not doing anything else, red-legged frogs are returning to their natural habitat," Fisher said. "Not everyone cares about that response, but they care about the human health aspectspreventing malaria, encephalitis and dengue fever."

Climate change appears to be making the problem worse, Fisher added. The red swamp crayfish comes from places in the Southeast United States that are hot or at least warm all year long. As temperatures increase with global warming, local habitat becomes more suitable to the pests.

Brad Shaffer, a UCLA conservation biologist and director of the La Kretz Center, said today's research is part of a larger effort to work across disciplines to address environmental problems.

"We blend field conservation biology, human health and the role of invasive species," Shaffer said. "It's what conservation biology should beundergraduate students, wildlife professionals, government biologists and university researchers coming together to figure out how species fit together in our human-modified world."

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More information: Gary M. Bucciarelli et al. Assessing effects of non-native crayfish on mosquito survival, Conservation Biology (2018). Journal information: Conservation Biology Gary M. Bucciarelli et al. Assessing effects of non-native crayfish on mosquito survival,(2018). DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13198
President Trump on July 18 at the White House. Photo: Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post/Getty Images

Donald Trump has staked out the most confrontational stance toward Robert Mueller of anybody in his administration. The president repeatedly rages that the investigation is rigged, demands it end, and threatens to fire the special counsel, his boss (Rod Rosenstein), or his bosss boss (Jeff Sessions), while Trumps lawyers try to soothe him, even refusing to carry out his orders.

But on the question of whether to sit for an interview with Mueller, the dynamic is just the opposite. Trump is reportedly eager to grant the special counsels request for a face-to-face chat, while literally every lawyer and political adviser he has thinks that would be a horrendous idea.

While Trumps lawyers have been prepared to tell Mr. Muellers office there will be no interview, reports the New York Times, Trump pushed them to continue negotiating. Axios reports that insiders expect Trump to get his way, because Trump wants to, he thinks he can make his own best case, and no one around him can restrain him, with one associate helpfully adding, He just cant help himself.

Trump is a nightmare client for a defense lawyer. He faces broad legal jeopardy in the Russia investigation  not only for a wide swath of potential crimes relating to collusion with Russia, but also for obstruction of justice. He is a habitual and uncontrollable liar, as even his closest allies grasp. He lies to his own lawyers, as evidenced by the confession of his counsel Jay Sekulow that he had been given bad information about Trumps alleged noninvolvement in crafting a lie about the Trump Tower meeting.

Trumps attorneys have tried to steer him away from speaking with Mueller by portraying the interview as a perjury trap, but the truth is that any interview with Donald Trump is a perjury trap. Trump would perjure himself in an interview about what he ate for lunch.

Trumps persistent desire to speak with Mueller is one of the true oddities of the long, unfolding scandal. His impulse for maximum confrontation is being overridden by his apparently stronger impulse to keep blabbing to everybody.

Why his lawyers have failed to steer him away from such a risky course of action can only be guessed at. One possible reason is that Trumps lawyers are simultaneously trying to talk him out of rashly firing Mueller at the very same time they are trying to talk him out of rashly speaking with him. The former requires soothing Trump with promises that Mueller will end his investigation relatively soon  by last Thanksgiving, Ty Cobb was saying a year ago  and will treat him fairly. Presumably, anything they say that discourages Trump from lashing out at Mueller also encourages him in his belief he can charm or bully him into submission. Another possibility is that Trumps lawyers dont have a good way of telling him he shouldnt speak under oath because he is a pathological liar.

Tony Schwartz, who ghost-wrote Trumps The Art of the Deal and spent hundreds of hours with its putative author, has suggested that in many cases, Trump literally does not know when he lies. That would certainly explain why Trump cannot seem to resist the allure of a situation where his inevitable lies will have unusually serious consequences.
The Longhouse, a prototype 'mass timber' building designed by an MIT class, demonstrates that even huge buildings can be built primarily with wood. Credit: MIT Mass Timber Design

The construction and operation of all kinds of buildings uses vast amounts of energy and natural resources. Researchers around the world have therefore been seeking ways to make buildings more efficient and less dependent on emissions-intensive materials.

Now, a project developed through an MIT class has come up with a highly energy-efficient design for a large community building that uses one of the world's oldest construction materials. For this structure, called "the Longhouse," massive timbers made of conventional lumber would be laminated together like a kind of supersized plywood.

The design will be presented this October at the Maine Mass Timber Conference, which is dedicated to exploring new uses of this material, which can be used to build safe, sound high-rise buildings, if building codes permit them.

John Klein, a research scientist in MIT's architecture department who taught a workshop called Mass Timber Design that came up with the new design, explains that "in North America, we have an abundance of forest resources, and a lot of it is overgrown. There's an effort to find ways to use forest products sustainably, and the forests are actively undergoing thinning processes to prevent forest fires and beetle infestations."

People tend to think of wood as a suitable material for structures just a few stories high, but not for larger structures, Klein says. But already some builders are beginning to use mass timber products (a term that basically applies to any wood products much larger than conventional lumber) for bigger structures, including medium-rise buildings of up to 20 stories. Even taller buildings should ultimately be practical with this technology, he says. One of the largest mass timber buildings in the U.S. is the new 82,000-square-foot John W. Olver Design Building at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

One of the first questions people raise when they hear of such construction has to do with fire. Can such tall wooden structures really be safe? In fact, Klein says, tests have demonstrated that mass timber structures can resist fire as well or better than steel. That's because wood exposed to fire naturally produces a layer of char, which is highly insulating and can protect the bulk of the wood for more than two hours. Steel, in contrast, can fail suddenly when heat softens it and causes it to buckle.

Klein explains that this natural fire resistance makes sense when you think about dropping a lit match onto a pile of wood shavings, versus dropping it onto a log. The shavings will burst into flames, but on the log a match will simply sputter out. The greater the bulk of the wood, the better it resists ignition.

The structure designed by the class uses massive beams made from layers of wood veneers laminated together, a process known as laminated veneer lumber (LVL), made into panels 50 feet long, 10 feet wide, and more than 6 inches thick These are cut to size and used to make a series of large arches, 40 feet tall to the central peak and spanning 50 feet across, made of sections with a triangular cross-section to add structural strength. A series of these arches is assembled to create a large enclosed space with no need for internal structural supports. The pleated design of the roof is designed to accommodate solar panels and windows for natural lighting and passive solar heating.

"The structural depth achieved by building up the triangular section helps us achieve the clear span desired for the communal space, all while lending a visual language on both the interior and the exterior of the structure," says Demi Fang, an MIT architecture graduate student who was part of the design team. "Each arch tapers and widens along its length, because not every point along the arch will be subject to the same magnitude of forces, and this varying cross-section depth both expresses structural performance while encouraging materials savings," she says.

The arches would be factory-built in sections, and then bolted together on site to make the complete building. Because the building would be largely prefabricated, the actual on-site construction process would be greatly streamlined, Klein says.

"The Longhouse is a multifunctional building, designed to accommodate a range of event scenarios from co-working, exercise classes, social mixers, exhibitions, dinner gatherings and lectures," Klein says, adding that it builds on a long tradition of such communal structures in cultures around the world.

Whereas the production of concrete, used in most of the world's large buildings, involves large releases of greenhouse gases from the baking of limestone, construction using mass timber has the opposite effect, Klein says. While concrete adds to the world's burden of greenhouse gases, timber actually lessens it, because the carbon removed from the air while trees grow is essentially sequestered for as long as the building lasts. "The building is a carbon sink," he says.

One obstacle to greater use of mass timber for large structures is in current U.S. building codes, Klein says, which limit the use of structural wood to residential buildings up to five stories, or commercial buildings up to six stories. But recent construction of much taller timber buildings in Europe, Australia, and Canadaincluding an 18-story timber building in British Columbiashould help to establish such buildings' safety and lead to the needed code changes, he says.

The Longhouse design was developed by a cross-disciplinary team in 4.S13 (Mass Timber Design), a design workshop in MIT's architecture department that explores the future of sustainable buildings. The team included John Fechtel, Paul Short, Demi Fang, Andrew Brose, Hyerin Lee, and Alexandre Beaudouin-Mackay. It was supported by the Department of Architecture, BuroHappold Engineering and Nova Concepts.

Explore further The sky's the limit for sustainable wooden skyscrapers
Tesla boss Elon Musk, who has previously discussed possibly taking Tesla private, has had bumpy relations with Wall Street, often dismissing questions over financing

Controversial Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk said Tuesday he was considering taking the company private, sending shares sharply higher before trading was halted.

Musk, who has cut a controversial figure on social media and beyond, sent the financial world abuzz again around 1650 GMT, tweeting, "Am considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured."

Musk said in subsequent tweets that he would remain chief executive under a go-private transaction and that any deal would benefit shareholders.

"Am super appreciative of Tesla shareholders," Musk said. "Will ensure their prosperity in any scenario."

Musk, who has previously discussed possibly taking Tesla private, has had bumpy relations with Wall Street, often dismissing questions over financing.

Shares rose 7.4 percent to $367.25 before being suspending shortly after 1800 GMT.

Tuesday's gains following the tweet added to upward movement on the stock after The Financial Times reported earlier Tuesday that a Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund had built a stake of between three and five percent in the company.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Musk's tweet comes as Tesla faces continued pressure to ramp up output of the Model 3 sedan, its first effort at the middle market.

No stranger to controversy, Elon Musk in July 2018 apologized for calling British caver Vernon Unsworth, who helped rescue 12 Thai boys from a cave a "pedo," short for pedophile, after Unsworth spoke dismissively of the Tesla chief's rescue proposal

The company began hitting production targets last month after missing a series of earlier benchmarks.

Going against the grain

Tesla shares have been on the upswing since it reported on August 1 a bigger-than-expected second-quarter but signaled that it expects to reach profitability in the third quarter and remain in the black for the foreseeable future.

Musk's approach to a possible go-private transaction went against the grain of many companies that release major news in non-trading hours. By contrast, Musk made the initial comment on Twitter and then embellished on the remarks in a series of responses to users on the platform.

Tesla shares have been on the upswing since it reported on August 1, 2018 a bigger-than-expected second-quarter but signaled that it expects to reach profitability in the third quarter and remain in the black for the foreseeable future

No stranger to controversy, Musk last month apologized for calling British caver Vernon Unsworth, who helped rescue 12 Thai boys from a cave a "pedo," short for pedophile, after Unsworth spoke dismissively of the Tesla chief's proposal for bringing the boys to safety.

He has also had a prickly relationship with Wall Street, apologizing last week to equity analysts after refusing to answer questions on a May investor call.

The billionaire Musk himself owns a bit more than 20 percent of Tesla stock. He has frequently lambasted "short" sellers of Tesla sharesthose who take bets that the stock will fall in value.

Following the company's surge after last week's earnings, Musk took aim again at a short-seller in a reposted short YouTube video that likened these investors to Hitler's last days.

A Model S sits on the showroom floor at a Tesla dealership on March 30, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois

Explore further Tesla shares tumble after Musk tweet controversy

 2018 AFP
The gallium-nitride disk and the photomultiplier array offer a potential solution for building a detector and imaging short-lived neutrons, which stream off the Sun and are produced from the bombardment of cosmic rays in Earth's protective magnetosphere. Credit: NASA/W. Hrybyk

An exotic material poised to become the semiconductor of choice for power electronics - because it is far more efficient than siliconis now being eyed for potential applications in space.

Two NASA teams are examining the use of gallium nitride, a crystal-type semiconductor compound first discovered in the 1980s, and currently used in consumer electronics such as laser diodes in DVD readers. Among its many attributes, gallium nitrideGaN, for shortdemonstrates less electrical resistance and thus loses only a small proportion of power as heat. The material can handle 10 times the electrical current of silicon, enabling smaller, faster, and more efficient devices. In addition, it's tolerant to a wide range of temperatures, resistant to radiation, and as it turns out, adept at detecting energetic particles.

It's no wonder then that scientists and engineers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, are interested in seeing how they could tap into this versatile material to enhance space exploration.

With their funding, engineer Jean-Marie Lauenstein and scientist Elizabeth MacDonald are investigating Gallium-Nitride High Electron Mobility Transistors, or GaN HEMTs, for use in studying how Earth's magnetosphere couples to its ionospherea key question in the field of heliophysics, which among other things studies the forces that drive change in our space environment. Stanley Hunter and Georgia de Nolfo, meanwhile, are investigating the material's use on a solid-state neutron detector that is relevant to both science and homeland security.

Gallium-Nitride Transistors

Gallium-nitride transistors or semiconductors became available commercially in 2010, but they have not yet found their way into space scientists' instruments, despite their potential to reduce an instrument's size, weight, and power consumption. There's a reason for that, said Lauenstein. Even though gallium-nitride is predicted to be resistant to many types of radiation damage encountered in space, neither NASA nor the U.S. military has established standards characterizing the performance of these transistor-enabled devices when exposed to the extreme radiation in space.

When struck by galactic cosmic rays or other energetic particles, electronic equipment can experience catastrophic or transient single-event upsets. "We have standards for silicon," Lauenstein said. "We don't know if the methods for silicon transistors would apply to gallium-nitride transistors. With silicon, we can assess the threshold for failure."

With the funding, Lauenstein and MacDonald are teaming with the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico, a parts manufacturer, and the NASA Electronic Parts and Packaging to establish criteria assuring a GaNs-type device could withstand the effects of potentially harmful particles produced by galactic cosmic rays and other sources.

The material could be useful in electron-beam acceleratorscomprised of gallium-nitride transistorsbuilt to map specific magnetic lines in Earth's protective magnetosphere to their footprints in Earth's ionosphere where aurora occurhelping to show how the two regions of near-Earth space connect.

"The team's research on radiation tolerance helps us understand how to fly these accelerators in the harsh space environment over the mission's lifetime," MacDonald said.

According to Lauenstein, these standards will also benefit other scientific disciplines. "We need a path forward for this technology," she said "This opens the door for others to incorporate this technology into their own missions."

Potentially "Game Changing"

For de Nolfo and Hunter, gallium-nitride offers a potential solution for building a detector and imaging neutrons, which are short-lived and typically expire after about 15 minutes. Neutrons can be generated by energetic events in the Sun as well as cosmic ray interactions with Earth's upper atmosphere. The neutrons generated by cosmic rays in the atmosphere can add to Earth's radiation belta swatch of radiation surrounding Earth that among other things can interfere with onboard satellite electronicswhen they decay. Researchers have discovered GaN can form the basis of a highly sensitive neutron detector.

"The gallium-nitride crystal could be game-changing for us," de Nolfo said.

Under their concept, Hunter and de Nolfo would position a gallium-nitride crystal inside an instrument. As neutrons entered the crystal, they scatter off gallium and nitrogen atoms and, in the process, excite other atoms, which then produce a flash of light revealing the position of the neutron that initiated the reaction. Silicon photomultipliers attached to the crystal convert the flash of light into an electrical pulse to be analyzed by the sensor electronics.

"Gallium-nitride is reasonably well understood in the photo-electronics industry, but I think we're pushing the envelope a little on this application," Hunter said, adding that the beauty of the concept is that it would contain no moving parts, use little power, and operate in a vacuum. If it works, the instrument would benefit different space science disciplines and the military in detecting nuclear material, he added.

Explore further Semiconductors with an aligned interface
Two new studies, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, offer the first comprehensive analytical datasets of Protodynastic to Old Kingdom Egyptian copper-based artifacts (c. 3rd millennium BC), analyzing the provenance of Egyptian copper. As elaborated in a methodological comment, the studies constitute an important step forward in current knowledge on copper provenance and the subsequent economic, social and cultural insights into ancient Egypt.

Advancements in scientific analyses have allowed archaeologists to reconstruct the prehistoric trade of metals around the Mediterranean in remarkable detail. However, there was a notable gap in Egypt, one of the most important ancient civilizations, due to the difficulties in accessing Egyptian metal artifacts for analysis. Two teams of researchers have overcome this challenge by using collections of Egyptian objects held in Europe, providing the first glimpse of how Egyptians sourced their metals, encouraging further research in the field.

The first study by Frederik W. Rademakers, Georges Verly, Luc Delvaux and Patrick Degryse, based on artifacts from the Royal Museums of Art and History (RMAH) in Brussels, suggests predominant reliance on relatively local ore, from the Eastern Desert and Sinai Peninsula. The study carried out lead isotope and chemical analyses on a total of 40 metal samples and seven ore samples dating from the Predynastic, Protodynastic and Old Kingdom Periods. The results suggest signi?cant developments in smelting technology that may have been adapted to di?erent ore types.

"These findings are based on a very particular segment of the ancient Egyptian metal economy (namely funerary consumption) and thus only reveal the tip of the iceberg," said Frederik W. Rademakers, Ph.D., Earth and Environmental Sciences, KU Leuven in Belgium. "The underlying organization of early supply networks, clearly reliant on a variety of mining and production zones, and the development of copper production technology are only slowly revealed through ongoing research."

Archaeometallurgist Georges Verly, Royal Museums of Art and History in Brussels, added, "We integrated field excavation with technology and provenance studies of these museum artifacts. We aim to understand how these objects were made and used within their particular ancient contexts, with arsenical copper alloys being a specific point of interest for these earliest periods."

The second study from four Czech institutions, led by Ph.D. candidates Jiri Kmosek (University of Pardubice) and Martin Odler (Charles University, Prague), investigates Egyptian copper-based artifacts from the Egyptian Museum of Leipzig University in Germany, found at the sites of Abusir, Abydos and Giza. The 22 artifacts show similar production technology, but diverse origins of the metal, including an Early Dynastic Egyptian object from Abusir, high nickel metal in which is consistent with ores and artifacts from Early Bronze Age Anatolia, in present-day Turkey.

"Lead isotopes showed us where the ore was most probably coming from," said archaeometallurgist Jiri Kmosek. "The results were quite unexpected," added Egyptologist Martin Odler. The study confirms that special metals had circulated around the Ancient Near East earlier than previously thought.

Finally, in a methodological comment responding to the two studies, Prof. Erez Ben-Yosef, Ph.D., based at the J. M. Alkow Department of Archaeology and Ancient Near Eastern Cultures, Tel Aviv University, Israel, indicates that despite the similar context of the artifacts, all from funerary sites, these new studies exemplify the great potential of analytical data to shed new light on various topics related to ancient Egyptian society, and encourage future research. The commentary highlights the importance of maintaining curated, shared, and constantly updated databases to the progress of provenance research.

"These studies constitute important steps forward in our understanding of early Egyptian metallurgy and raw materials procurement strategies. These and future studies can benefit from a modular presentation of interpretational insights that takes into account differences in the insights' robustness and susceptibility to change as more data become available," Prof. Ben-Yosef concluded.

Explore further Ink from ancient Egyptian papyri contains copper

More information: Erez Ben-Yosef, Provenancing Egyptian metals: A methodological comment, Journal of Archaeological Science (2018). Erez Ben-Yosef, Provenancing Egyptian metals: A methodological comment,(2018). DOI: 10.1016/j.jas.2018.06.001 Jiri Kmosek et al. Invisible connections. Early Dynastic and Old Kingdom Egyptian metalwork in the Egyptian Museum of Leipzig University, Journal of Archaeological Science (2018). DOI: 10.1016/j.jas.2018.04.004 Frederik W. Rademakers et al. Copper for the afterlife in Predynastic to Old Kingdom Egypt: Provenance characterization by chemical and lead isotope analysis (RMAH collection, Belgium), Journal of Archaeological Science (2018). DOI: 10.1016/j.jas.2018.04.005 Journal information: Journal of Archaeological Science
A new study from Lund University in Sweden shows that small birds migrating from Scandinavia to Africa in the autumn occasionally fly as high as 4,000 metres above sea levelprobably adjusting their flight to take advantage of favourable winds and different wind layers.

This is the first time that researchers have tracked how high small birds fly all the way from Sweden to Africa. Previous studies have successfully logged the flight height of larger migratory birds.

"We only followed two individuals and two species. But the fact that both of them flew so high does surprise me. It's fascinating and it raises new questions about the physiology of birds. How do they cope with the air pressure, thin air and low temperatures at these heights?" says Sissel Sjoberg, biologist at Lund University and the Zoological Museum in Copenhagen.

The aim of the study was to investigate whether the measuring method itself works on small birds, that is, to measure acceleration, barometric pressure (air pressure) and temperature throughout the flight using a small data logger attached to the bird.

The data logger was attached to two individuals of different species: the great reed warbler and the red-backed shrike. Among other things, the results show how long it takes for each bird to fly to their destination. The measured barometric pressure showed that the great reed warbler occasionally flies at 3 950 metres, and the red-backed shrike flies at 3,650 metres.

Both individuals flew the highest above ground across the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara, but the shrike reached higher flight altitudes closer to its winter grounds in southern Africa.

Sissel Sjoberg thinks it is likely that other small birds fly as high, maybe even higher. But there is no evidence of that yet.

"In this study, we only worked with data collected during the autumn, when the small birds migrate to Africa. There are other studies that indicate that the birds fly even higher when they migrate back in the spring, but we cannot say for sure."

The study was published in the Journal of Avian Biology.

Explore further Birds migrate away from diseases

More information: Sissel Sjoberg et al, Barometer logging reveals new dimensions of individual songbird migration, Journal of Avian Biology (2018). Sissel Sjoberg et al, Barometer logging reveals new dimensions of individual songbird migration,(2018). DOI: 10.1111/jav.01821
The surface of the sun, or photosphere, is about 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit, but the region through which the solar probe flies, the corona, is 2 million degrees. Scientists want to know why. Credit: NASA image

On August 11, NASA plans to launch Earth's first spacecraft to venture inside the orbits of Venus and Mercury to touch the very edge of the sun's fiery corona.

Outfitted with instruments designed and built at the University of California, Berkeley, the Parker Solar Probe will achieve a goal that space scientists have dreamed about for decades: to get close enough to the sun to learn how the turbulent surface we see from Earth dumps its energy into the corona and heats it to nearly 2 million degrees Fahrenheit, spawning the solar wind that continually bombards our planet.

"This is a piece of heliophysics science we all really wanted for a long time, since the 1950s," said Stuart Bale, a UC Berkeley professor of physics, former director of the campus's Space Sciences Laboratory and one of four principal investigators for the instruments aboard the mission. "For me personally, I've been working on the probe since it was approved in 2010, but I really spent a large part of my career getting ready for it."

The solar probe will travel faster than any spacecraft in history, at its peak reaching 430,000 miles per hour, and will be only four-and-a-half solar diameters, or 3.8 million miles, above the solar surface at its closet approach to the sun around 2024. The probe is equipped with a heat shield to protect its sensors from the sun's heat, which could reach 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit, nearly hot enough to melt steel.

At this distance, the solar probe will be within a region where electrons and ionized atoms  mostly hydrogen ions, or protons, and helium ions, called alpha particles  are accelerated and shot out toward the planets at high speed.

When these ions, called the solar wind, hit Earth, they interact with Earth's magnetic fields and generate the northern and southern lights as well as storms in the outermost atmosphere that interfere with radio communications and satellite operations. Accelerated to higher speeds, so-called "solar energetic" particles can pose a hazard to astronauts.

Scientists still do not know how the solar wind ions are accelerated, or why the ions and electrons in the corona are so much hotter, about 1.7 million degrees Fahrenheit, than the surface of the sun, which is a relatively cool 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The Parker Solar Probe could answer those questions, and help scientists on Earth forecast the large eruptions from the sun that pose the greatest peril to our spacecraft and communications systems.

Follow the magnetic fields

FIELDS, a suite of instruments built at UC Berkeley's Space Sciences Laboratory, is one of four instrument packages aboard the probe. With the help of a six-foot boom projecting in the direction the spacecraft is moving, it will measure the electric and magnetic fields in the corona, which will tell scientists the total energy streaming outward from the sun.

These measurements will test one theory of how the sun heats the corona: by jiggling the magnetic field lines. The strong magnetic field of the sun stretches out far into space, but the magnetic field lines are anchored in surface regions that constantly move around because of convection below, like boiling water. The constant movement of the base of the magnetic field lines creates waves that travel outward along the lines, just as jiggling the end of a long rope sends waves to the other end. Somehow, these so-called Alfven waves accelerate particles to high speeds and fling them into space.

"If the wave-driven model is correct, then I think our measurements will be the fundamental measurements on the mission," Bale said.

The other popular theory is that tiny flares called nanoflares all over the surface of the sun produce magnetic fields that cross, reconnect and fling disconnected loops of magnetic field into space, accelerating ions along with it. This was first proposed in 1987 by Eugene Parker, after whom the solar probe is named. Now 91, Parker predicted the existence of and named the solar wind in the 1950s.

Radio antennas on the FIELDS package will look for radio waves created by nanoflares, which have yet to be detected, while another package of instruments, SWEAP (Solar Wind Electrons Alphas and Protons), will record the speed of solar wind electrons, protons and alpha particles as they whiz by the probe. Correlating nanoflare or microflare activity with the flux of particles streaming from the sun could confirm the magnetic reconnection theory. SWEAP is led by the University of Michigan and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge, Massachusetts, though much of the instrument was designed and built at the Space Sciences Laboratory at UC Berkeley.

Two other instrument packages will be aboard the probe. WISPR, the Wide-Field Imager for Parker Solar Probe, was built at the Naval Research Laboratory and will capture visible-light images of the sun's corona directly in front of the orbiting probe. ISIS (pronounced E-sis)  short for Integrated Science Investigation of the Sun, and including , the symbol for the Sun, in its acronym  is led by Princeton University and will measure the energy and identity of energized electrons and ions, including ions heavier that hydrogen and helium, in order to find out how they are sometimes accelerated to nearly light speed close to the sun.

Together, these instruments should be able to record the speed-up of the solar wind from subsonic to supersonic and the birth of the highest-energy solar particles.

"Plasma physics is really hard to study in the laboratory," said Bale, who focuses on the role of magnetic fields and ionized plasma in space, in particular around stars like the sun. "Sticking a spacecraft right in the hot plasma makes an ideal laboratory."

Looping around Venus

This probe is the chance of a lifetime for Bale. Though his team will deploy booms and test instrument functions one day after launch, most of the instruments will then be turned off and won't begin taking real measurements of the corona until the probe reaches its first close approach to the sun in November.

After a loop around Venus to slow down, the probe will get the closest any spacecraft has ever been to the sun, a distance from the center of the sun equal to 36 times the sun's radius (36 solar radii). Venus orbits at 155 solar radii and Mercury at 83 solar radii.

Over the next six years, the probe will loop around Venus six more times, gradually working its way to approximately 9.8 solar radii from the center of the sun. There, it will be well within the corona, at the outer edge of which particles exceed the speed of sound  the Alfven speed, which is about 200 miles per second  and no longer call the sun home.

"The goal of the mission is to get inside that transition region, so we get into the real corona where the flow is subAlfvenic," Bale said. "We think that boundary is at about 15 solar radii, so we probably won't start hitting it until 2021."

Once inside the corona, the probe may see the jiggling magnetic field lines, or Alfven waves, bouncing back and forth between the sun's surface and the edge of the corona, a turbulent cascade that may be the feedback loop that accelerates particles to the high speeds seen in the solar wind.

"In early December, I am counting on having that first pass of data at 35 solar radii, and I am sure it will be revolutionary. There will be great new stuff in there, from what we know about previous missions," Bale said.

Over its seven-year mission lifetime, the probe will dip into the sun's inner atmosphere 24 times. As part of NASA's outreach efforts, more than 1.1 million people submitted their names to be recorded on a memory card that will accompany the spacecraft around the sun.

The probe is scheduled for launch in the early hours of Saturday, Aug. 11, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket with an upper stage to boost it out of Earth orbit toward Venus.

Explore further Parker Solar Probe and the birth of the solar wind
Former Walt Disney Studios chairman Jeffrey Katzenberg is raising funds for a start-up, NewTV, that aims to tailor television to smartphone lifestyles

Former Walt Disney Studios chairman Jeffrey Katzenberg has raised $1 billion in initial funding for his NewTV start-up seeking to tailor television to smartphone lifestyles, pulling in Hollywood's biggest studios.

Disney, 21st Century Fox, MGM, Sony Pictures and Warner are among the investors in NewTV, a working name for the new company, Katzenberg's WndrCo company announced Tuesday.

Katzenberg, 67, co-founded DreamWorks in 1994 with Steven Spielberg and David Geffen, overseeing production of hits such as "Shrek".

Before that, his stint at Disney spurred the studio's Renaissance with animation successes such as "Beauty and the Beast," "Aladdin" and "The Lion King".

He has brought on board Meg Whitman as NewTV's top executive. One of the most prominent women in Silicon Valley, she was chief executive of Hewlett Packard Enterprise from 2011-2017 and of eBay, from 1998 to 2008.

Katzenberg will remain in charge of content.

NewTV, being nurtured into existence at WndrCo, envisions high-quality shows being custom-designed to be consumed in 'bite-sized' formats of 10 minutes or less on people's mobile phones.

No other platform has so far managed to monetize the format, other than through advertising, with the market flooded by free content dominated by the likes of Facebook and YouTube.

Whitman told television network CNBC that Hollywood studios were on board because the new platform is "a growth area" that would allow stories to be told "in an entirely new way."

She described the market as "enormous," estimating that two billion people spend an average of an hour a day looking at videos on their smartphones.

To develop a platform optimized for cell-phone use, NewTV has partnered with China's online sales giant, Alibaba.

NewTV's target launch is Christmas 2019, Whitman told CNBC.

 2018 AFP
This September 2015 photo provided by NOAA Fisheries shows a aerial view of adult female Southern Resident killer whale (J16) swims with her calf (J50). Federal officials are weighing options to save an emaciated endangered orca that includes feeding it live salmon dosed with medicine. Biologists are worried about the survival of a 4-year-old orca known as J-50, a member of a dwindling population of whales that spend time in Pacific Northwest waters (NOAA Fisheries/Vancouver Aquarium via AP, File)

Veterinarians are preparing rare emergency efforts to administer antibiotics to a young emaciated orca that's part of an endangered pod and whose survival is uncertain.

Teri Rowles with NOAA Fisheries told reporters Tuesday that veterinarians will do a health assessment when the 3-year-old female killer whale shows up again in Washington state waters.

They'll decide then whether to administer antibiotics using a dart injector or a long pole syringe.

They would decide after that whether to feed the orca live salmon from a boat, which has never been attempted in the wild.

The animal, which was last seen Friday, is part of a population of critically endangered orcas that's dwindled to just 75 whales.

Another female orca from the group attracted global attention as she tried to keep her dead baby afloat.

Explore further Biologists consider options to save emaciated orca

 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
Photo: Ali Mohammadi/Bloomberg via Getty Images

On Monday, President Trump expressed his concern for the long-suffering Iranian people and the national security interests of our allies  and then announced that his administration is moving forward with a plan to immiserate the Iranian people and undermine a vital national security interest of Americas European allies.

In a statement, the White House confirmed that the United States will restore a battery of sanctions on Iran that had been lifted by the 2015 nuclear deal. Under the terms of that landmark diplomatic agreement, the U.S. promised Britain, France, and Germany that it would suspend sanctions on companies and countries that did business with Iran, so long as Tehran suspended its nuclear weapons program. Firms from those nations proceeded to make investments and forge business relationships in Iran. The Iranian regime ditched its highly enriched uranium, tolerated an invasive inspection program, and fully complied with its obligations under the agreement.

The United States denies none of this.

The trouble is, while Iran has complied with the nuclear agreement, it has also persisted in asserting itself as a regional power, and pursuing a foreign policy that the United States does not like. Specifically, the Iranian regime has helped one of its homicidal, authoritarian allies put down an insurgency through mass war crimes, provided weapons to rebels in a country that is within its arch-geopolitical rivals sphere of influence, and provided support to militants in the Israel-Palestine conflict who have routinely refused to abide by the Geneva Convention  all things that the U.S. government would never, ever, ever, ever, do.

In light of Irans extraordinary actions, America has decided to break its word to its core allies, and inflict profound material deprivation on the Iranian people, based on the dubious premise that this will force Tehran to do Washingtons bidding.

As we continue applying maximum economic pressure on the Iranian regime, I remain open to reaching a more comprehensive deal that addresses the full range of the regimes malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism, Trump said in his statement Monday.

Iranian president Hassan Rouhani subsequently declined the presidents implicit invitation for talks in a televised address.

If you stab someone with a knife and then you say you want talks, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife, Rouhani said. We are always in favour of diplomacy and talks  But talks need honestyThe one who today claims he can negotiate is also someone who, without any negotiation, has withdrawn from all of his international commitments, from the Paris treaty to his trade agreements.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom reiterated their commitment to the 2015 deal, saying, preserving the nuclear agreement with Iran is a matter of respecting international agreements and a matter of international security.

To that end, the European Union on Monday adopted a blocking measure intended to nullify American sanctions on EU firms that continue to do business with Iran. The statute threatens European companies that abide by Americas sanctions with even stiffer economic penalties. But any attempt to enforce this rule would be legally contentious and politically painful. Meanwhile, major EU firms have already signaled that they arent interested in jeopardizing their access to the U.S. banking system and consumer market for the sake of retaining a foothold in Iran.

Economic mismanagement  combined with the threat of renewed U.S. sanctions, which have been looming since Trump first withdrew America from the nuclear agreement in May  has already thrown Irans economy into turmoil. And this dysfunction has coincided with a revived protest movement against the nations contemptible, theocratic regime. But as the Washington Posts Jason Rezaian (who was unjustly imprisoned by Iranian authorities for over a year) explains, Trumps sanctions are more likely to strengthen the most oppressive elements of Iranian society than to enable its dissident movements to win progressive reforms:

Although sanctions wont target food and medicine directly, Iran will be cut from the international financial system, so imports for many items will be affected, causing delays in delivery. People needing certain lifesaving drugs will have to cross borders to buy their medicine  if they can afford it  on the black market. People who might otherwise live normal lives with the aid of their medications will needlessly dieSoon enough, well-connected officials and their families with access to the black markets will begin importing and selling goods at exorbitant prices, callously taking advantage of the misfortune that their cronies in government helped create.

Just as Fidel Castros Cuba, Nicolas Maduros Venezuela and many other anti-U.S. regimes manage to limp along for years, Irans ruling class is similarly stubborn. Its true that protests have picked up steam in recent months and spread throughout Iran, but they arent the type that peacefully topple a system that has all the guns.

The struggles of surviving daily life will make political organizing more of a challenge than it already is. The protests are still not anything like a mass movement. They are the legitimate and disparate demands of people living under the weight of immense pressure.

There is a strong case that the foreign policies of Americas ruling regime have destabilized the Middle East, run roughshod over international law, and undermined the liberal, postwar order. Many Americans believe that their governments domestic policies are corrupt, repressive, and discriminatory.

But if any foreign government decided to show its solidarity with our plight by pushing our economy into recession  and cutting off ordinary Americans access to life-saving medications  we wouldnt for a moment mistake its act of aggression for sincere concern. Lets not make that mistake as the Trump administration extends its thoughts and prayers to the Iranian people.
Heightening public awareness of the spotted lanternfly was the focus of Monday's press conference in Pennsylvania's capitol, which brought together officials of the Pa. Department of Agriculture (PDA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Penn State University.

All three provided an update on their work to control the spread of the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect discovered in Berks County in 2014 that has spread so quickly that a quarantine has been implemented in 13 Pa. counties and three more in New Jersey. In addition, a combination of more than $20 million has been allocated by the state and feds to try and contain the infestation.

These bugs feed on fruit trees, grapevines and hardwood, threatening several industries that together are worth nearly $18 billion to the state's economy.

Part of the mission this summer is trying to eliminate infestation while Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences has taken the lead on public outreach through its Cooperative Extension service.

Pa. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said that the emphasis is conveying the urgency of the problem to the public and the part they can play in assisting with that. "If people are aware of the pest, and know what it looks like, they can report sightings to us so that we can respond more quickly," he said Monday. "If the insect is found someplace outside of the quarantine zone, the sooner we know about it, the sooner we can react and prevent it from spreading."

READ MORE: Pa. budget includes twice as much proposed to fight spotted lanternfly

Pennsylvanians are encouraged to report sightings of the spotted lanternfly through an online reporting tool found at extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly or by calling 1-888-4BADFLY. The hotline will connect callers to Penn State Extension staff who will provide guidance and next steps.

Following an increase in damage from spotted lanternfly last summer, particularly in several orchards and vineyards in Berks County, the state's Department of Agriculture expanded its quarantined area to 13 counties. Because these insects are so adept at transporting themselves on vehicles and cargo and feeding on the Tree of Heaven, a deciduous tree found in abundance in the mid-Atlantic region, New Jersey officials six days ago instituted a quarantine for Warren, Mercer and Hunterdon counties. All run along the line with Pennsylvania.

Meanwhile, one winery owner and grape grower who has been hurt as much as anyone in the state by the insects said he has seen a decided decline in them this year. Rich Blair and his family operate Setter Ridge Vineyards, formerly Blair Vineyards, outside Kutztown. His older vineyard in Rockland Township, called Stonehedge, covering around 7 acres was decimated last year. "[Around] 5 acres] were 20 years old and 2 [acres] were 3 years old. It seems the stress killed the old vines and left the younger ones struggling this year, and no fruit," he said a couple weeks ago.

A map from earlier this year showing where the spotted lanternfly has been seen: The green dots are locations [in Pa.] that were reported to the Dept. of Ag, investigated and found to contain no insects. The red dots are locations where the insect was reported and confirmed. The two blue dots were locations where a dead insect was found, but no presence of eggs or live insects.

Contacted Sunday, he said that vineyard has been free of the pest this year. "I have not seen a single nymph in the vineyard," he said. "My neighbor has caught about a dozen on one Tree of Heaven, the rest of her traps are empty - last year she had to replace the traps every other day." He owns a larger (23 acres) and younger vineyard by his winery where activity to this point also has been reduced.

That's encouraging, but not enough to replant the dead vineyard, he said Sunday. "I am not willing to make that commitment. I need a few more years to figure out what is going on before I replant at $20,000 an acre."

One legislator who said he was not invited to Monday's press conference was Rep. David Maloney, R-Berks, whose district includes some of the most heavily infected farmland. He accused the Wolf administration of "playing politics with folks' livelihoods. Three people from the press were present, which is what happens when you spring a 9:30 a.m. Monday press conference on people and also present were folks from our Department of Agriculture who have told my constituents 'don't talk to the state representative' on this," he said in a press release.

"Because the state has not acted with urgency, I had to work with Congressman Ryan Costello to get $17.5 million in federal funds for this problem, and I am now very concerned this money will be squandered on 'studying the problem' rather than addressing it proactively," he added.
On Sunday, dedicated conspiracy theorists with iPhones searching for podcasts from the right-wing radio host Alex Jones and his media empire Infowars were stymied: Apple had removed five Infowars podcasts from iTunes and its Podcasts app. Within hours, two of Apples great megatech peers followed suit, as Facebook and YouTube both removed the official Infowars pages from their platforms.

The swift action taken by those companies is, on its face, a welcome move to limit hate speech and harmful content on large platforms. Facebook and YouTube have acted as megaphones for Infowars (and reaped the benefits in the process)  choosing to cut ties with the site and the millions of subscribers those accounts held, after months of pressure from consumers, employees, and victims of Joness conspiracy-mongering, theyve finally shown an interest in policing their sites on behalf of their users.

The thing is, though, the reason that every other platform booted Jones is because Apple did it first. The swiftness with which Facebook and YouTube cast out Alex Jones does not indicate responsible moderation, and certainly is not a display of thoughtful moral leadership. These companies didnt spend months deliberating a course of action and then decided this weekend. They saw Apple make its move, and they dusted off what must have been pre-written statements that had been sitting in someones drafts for months. Just a few weeks ago, the official Facebook Twitter account was insisting on free speech as the reason the company wouldnt ban Infowars. What happened to that principled stand?

What the Infowars decisions represent is a capitulation  not to censors, not to the public, not to the deep state, but to the only entity left that has any real power over Facebook and YouTube: Apple. Once Apple had banned Infowars, suddenly Facebook and YouTube had cover to do so as well without risking the concentrated wrath of Joness followers; once Apple had banned Infowars, it was Facebook and YouTube that scrambled to adjust to the new boundaries of acceptable discourse that Facebooks users can complain about all they want; only Apple can compel Facebook to act.

To a large extent, this is about perception: Apple took a strong stand, and its rivals determined that they didnt like the obvious negative comparison. No one wants to be the only remaining home of Alex Jones. (Okay, maybe Twitter does.) But there are balance-of-power reasons, too. In the grand hierarchy of tech, all software needs hardware to run on, and Apple controls a big chunk of the hardware and the mechanism for installing software. While Facebook and YouTube and Spotify can all cite hate speech or policy infractions as their reasoning publicly, the unspoken reason is that to not follow Apples lead could get their own apps booted from the App Store. Federal law shields platforms from responsibility for what users post; Apples policies dont. Last year, for instance, Apple rejected the mobile app for Gab, a Twitter clone preferred by the alt-right, citing hate-speech concerns. By continuing to host and promote content that Apple considered hate speech, Facebook and Spotify and YouTube ran the risk of being delisted as well.

If you believe that Alex Jones represents an unprecedented threat to the health of democracy, the mass removal of his official sites probably seems like a good thing. But its hard not to be cynical about both the motives and the outcomes of megaplatform policy changes, especially when they occur in the context of jockeying for power against one another. There are reams of objectionable content littering these platforms and it will never be fully eradicated. Infowars was an attractive target because of its millions of subscribers  an easy way to cut off a particularly huge megaphone. But the Infowars app is still available on Apples App Store.

Did these places arrive at the right destination? Sure. Eventually. But did they do it for the right reasons? If that were the case, Im guessing it would have happened a lot sooner. Its not like these places werent facing pressure from the general public and the press for a long time. It turns out that the only thing that can get a corporation to make the call on hate speech and dangerous conspiracy theories is pressure from another megacorporation.
Alexander Lukashuk, Director of Radio Free Europe/Radio Libertys (RFE/RL) Belarus Service, was awarded the prestigious Ales Adamovich Award, sponsored by the Belarusian PEN Center, on May 28. Lukashuk received the award for his role in creating the Services Liberty Library series of pocket books based on RFE/RL programming, and for his authorship of the books Adventures of ARA in Belarus and Trace of the Butterfly.

The annual literary award was first presented in 1995, one year after the death of prominent glasnost-era writer and political figure Ales Adamovich, who also mentored Nobel prize winner Svetlana Alexievich. The award recognizes the best current affairs book published in the previous year.

On presenting the award at a ceremony in Minsk on May 28, Adamovichs daughter, Natalia, said that she was grateful that Lukashuk took one of her fathers last interviews in December 1993, just before he died at age 66 in January 1994.

In accepting the award, Lukashuk thanked his book editors Sergey Dubovtsev, Vlad Orlov, and artist Gennady Matsuri, and recalled some lines from a satirical poem written in the 1980s about Adamovich: Let Adamovich discover  if not asked, then dont bother. He remembered Adamovich as a cheerful and positive person.

The Liberty Library series, which began in 2002 as an alternative means of reaching Belarussian audiences, boasts 67 publications to date, in the form of books and DVDs, including memoirs, essays, poems, and historical anthologies. Upon publication, the books are presented to audiences throughout Belarus at gala events, and copies are sent to educational institutions, libraries, and cultural foundations.

Liberty Library books have been awarded numerous prizes -- for example, RFE/RLs Dzmitry Bartosik received the Giedroyc Literature Prize in October 2017 for writing the years best non-fiction book in the Belarusian language.

RFE/RLs Belarus Service, known locally as Radio Svaboda, ranks first among Belarusian media on Facebook, Twitter, and VKontakte, with a combined weekly reach of almost 7.5 million views. With an average of more than 1.25 million page views per month, the Service is committed to connecting with the countrys next generation. In 2017, visits to the services website rose by 58 percent from the previous year.
The prolonged battle for the debt-ridden Bhushan Power and Steel (BPSL), among the RBI's first list of the Dirty Dozen, has just gotten stretched out even more. The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) yesterday extended the deadline for revised bid submission by yet another week, so things are unlikely to wrap up anytime soon.

The Tribunal pushed back the deadline to August 13 on the plea of Tata Steel, which had been declared the highest bidder in July - for the second time. But then the googly bowled by JSW Steel, another contender in the race for BPSL, threw a spanner into the works. JSW had upped its offer from Rs 11,000 crore to Rs 18,000 crore just ahead of the meeting of the bankrupt company's Committee of Creditors (CoC) to finalise a vote, which was higher than Tata Steel's Rs 17,000 crore bid.

So the latter approached the NCLAT challenging the bid revision. On August 1, a bench headed by Chairman Justice SJ Mukhopadhaya passed an interim order allowing all the three parties - Liberty House being the third contender - to upgrade their respective offers by August 6.

The disgruntled Tata Steel then moved Supreme Court against the NCLAT's order and the matter is scheduled to be heard on Friday this week. Given the above, the counsel appearing for Tata Steel had requested the NCLAT to extend the deadline for submission of the revised bids. It had argued that if the CoC takes a decision based on the revised offers before the apex court rules on the matter, then their position may be altered after the Friday hearing.

Hence, the tribunal decided to shift the deadline for bid submissions by a week to August 13. Thus, the already dragged-out BPSL case - courtesy the legal tussle with Liberty House - will continue to play out in courts. To remind you, BPSL, which owes about Rs 45,000 crore to a consortium of lenders led by Punjab National Bank, had been admitted by the NCLT on July 26, 2017.

That would mean that BPSL has exceeded the 270-day deadline specified for insolvency resolution by over 100 days. However, the appellate tribunal has excluded the duration of the pending appeal from the resolution time frame.
Shopping for a new TV? Here's some good news for you: Samsung Electronics has cut prices of its top-selling models by 5-15 per cent. According to The Economic Times The price reduction ranges from around Rs 1,000- Rs 2,500 in the 32 to 43 inch screen size segment - which accounts for 80 per cent of the television market by volume - to Rs 45,000 (15 per cent discount) for the 75-inch models.

Incidentally, this is the second time in two months that the South Korean giant has slashed rates on its television sets - in June it had lowered prices by 10-20 per cent for some other models. Citing industry insiders, the report added that this is the first time that Samsung has cut prices of new models less than two months after launching them in an attempt to consolidate its leading spot.

The company not only wants to stay ahead of online focused brands such as TCL, Xiaomi, BPL, Vu, Sanyo and Kodak, which have already cornered about 14 per cent share of the market, but also prevent erosion of its 30 per cent market share. It clearly does not want a repeat of its experience in the smartphone segment, where its rivals had overtaken it - albeit briefly. According to Counterpoint Technology Market Research, Samsung regained leadership by 1 percentage point in April-June after two quarters.

"Samsung is trying to match up with the prices of the price-aggressive television brands who are slowly gaining share. The price cut has been done on the entry-level models for each size to offer customers good value for money," Vishal Mewani, director of Mumbai-based electronics chain Kohinoor, told the daily.

However, despite the price drop, Samsung TVs are pricier than some of its rivals. For instance, its 43-inch TV costs Rs 37,000, along with a gift, while a similar TCL model is priced at Rs 28,490. It remains to be seen whether buyers get wooed by Samsung's higher brand value and the promise of better after-sales service.

In the meantime, Samsung's new strategy has caught rivals on the wrong foot. With the cost of display panels going up globally, the industry had been gearing up for a price hike. But sources say that the latest price cuts have forced other biggies in the business like LG, Panasonic and Sony to either hold prices or cut them. Panasonic, for one, has cut prices on a few models above 40 inches. But the smaller player will suffer more.

According to Avneet Singh Marwah, CEO of Super Plastronics - which makes Thomson and Kodak televisions that are exclusively sold online - Samsung and LG, the biggest manufacturers of display panels globally, have increased prices of the component while cutting prices of their televisions in India. "This is making competition tough in the affordable category since we are compelled to hike prices by 10-11 per cent before the festive season," he told the daily. BPL, likewise, will increase prices by 6-9 per cent around mid-September.

But if you have your heart set on a Samsung TV, there's more to look forward to. A Samsung India spokesperson told the daily that the company will be offering cashback and EMI schemes and gifts in the upcoming festival season to gain significant TV market share.

Edited By Sushmita Choudhury Agarwal
Around 17 lakh employees of the Maharashtra government began their three-day strike on Tuesday to press for various demands, including implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission report. Essential services in various departments, including government hospitals, are likely to be affected as class 3 and 4 government employees have joined the strike, Maharashtra Rajya Sarkari Karmachari Madhyavarti Sanghatna general secretary Avinash Daund claimed.

He accused the state government of paying a mere "lip-service" to their long-pending demands. "About 17 lakh government employees from various departments, including zilla parishads, teachers and state-run corporations, will take part in the three-day strike," said Milind Sardeshmukh, president of the organisation which has called for the protest.

The government employees are yet to receive arrears accrued to them since the implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission by the state government, he said. He claimed that 1.85 lakh posts of class 3 and class 4 employees are lying vacant in Maharashtra. Moreover, the demand for filling up 30,000 posts on compassionate ground is also not accepted by the state government, he said.

Around 30-40 per cent of total posts are lying vacant in hospitals and other essential services departments, he added. The government-appointed K P Bakshi committee was only holding meetings for the last one-and-a-half years with various departments for the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission's recommendations, Sardeshmukh said.

"The state is dilly-dallying on the issue of granting Dearness Allowance arrears for 14 months despite issuing a Government Resolution to this effect," he said. The government's reluctance to fill up vacant posts in various departments has increased the workload on employees, he claimed.

The government has not done anything beyond giving assurances for raising the retirement age from 58 years to 60 years, five-day week working system, continuation of the old pension scheme and two-year child care leave to women employees, he said.

Daund said their organisation was against outsourcing of some government jobs to private sector and appointment of contract labourers.

In an order late last night, the government said the employees' decision to go on strike will be construed as "misbehaviour" and disciplinary action will be taken against them. It said the Centre's policy of 'kaam nahi, vetan nahi' (no work, no salary) will be followed in the state as well.

The order directed employees in essential services departments - such as hospitals, fire brigade and water supply - not to join the strike, or else provisions of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) will be invoked against them.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said last week that recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission will be implemented for state government employees from January 2019.

"The arrears of Seventh Pay Commission will be given with retrospective effect from January 2016, while the Dearness Allowance will be given retrospectively for the last 14 months," he had said after holding a meeting with various employees' unions.
" " French researchers did detect cesium-137 in a limited sample of California wines, but the levels weren't high enough to pose a threat to human health. (Note: The wine pictured here is not the wine that was tested.) franckreporter/E+/Getty Images

In March 2011, an offshore earthquake triggered a tsunami that crippled the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant and caused a partial meltdown of three reactor cores. The effects of the nuclear disaster weren't limited to the immediate area and some people in California, among others, became exceedingly nervous about the prospect of radioactive compounds drifting across the Pacific.

In 2014, those radioactive contaminants were about 100 miles (160 kilometers) off the coast of Eureka, California, reported scientists from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. And what they discovered seemed to be good news. The levels of cesium-134, the telltale contaminant from the Fukushima disaster, were found to be so low that they posed no threat to human health. How low exactly? Less than 2 becquerels per cubic meter. The scientists put that in perspective writing, "This Fukushima-derived cesium is far below where one might expect any measurable risk to human health or marine life, according to international health agencies. And it is more than 1,000 times lower than acceptable limits in drinking water set by U.S. EPA."

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Fast-forward a few years, when curious French scientists decided to test a modest sample of 18 bottles of California cabernet sauvignon and rose to see if they'd been affected by the Fukushima disaster, as had happened with Chernobyl and European wines. They had. The scientists reported a tiny but measurable increase in the level of radioactive cesium-137 just after the Japanese nuclear accident.

But the finding was more of a curiosity than anything else. As The New York Times noted, the levels of radioactivity were so low that in order to detect them, the scientists had to use a special method, in which they burned the wine to create ashes. (Usually wine experts can perform the test without opening the bottle, which is a big relief to oenophiles.)

Again, perspective on the finding is important. "For reference, the natural radiation from a banana is about 1,000 times higher than the cesium-137 that they report in these wines. So, while it is curious that the Fukushima incident could be detected in California, the interesting point is that they could see it at all!" notes the Department of Viticulture and Enology at the University of California, Davis on a related July 25 Facebook post.

Now That's Interesting Fascinated by Fukushima? According to Reuters, tour groups of sightseers have been visiting the region where the crippled nuclear plant is located and observing the still-continuing plant cleanup from a distance.
Bitcoin was created in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis that wreaked havoc on the world economy, but it hasnt quite had the chance to prove itself since. The fact is, stock markets have been doing well. Really well. Especially in the U.S. But now, some analysts are beginning to sound the alarms.

U.S. Stock Markets Are Becoming Risky

Following the bloodbath in February, the market has seen a sustained rally, held together by FAANG gains and lifted even higher with surprising second quarter earnings reports. Despite this, some of the most trusted indicators are suggesting that the fun may be over. And smart money is already pulling out.

One indicator is in especially worrying territory. The so-called Buffet indicator measures the total stock market cap relative to the countrys GDP. Typically, this is a favorite among traders, but euphoria may be clouding their judgement in recent months.

Typically, when markets sit at 70-80 percent of total GDP, traders can see some handsome gains by throwing cash into the pit. But if that number inches above 100 percent many traders begin to see further investment as too risky. Where is number now? 140 percent in the U.S.

(Click to enlarge)

In looking at the chart, there is a pretty clear correlation between this indicator and market crashes, and the link is becoming becoming even more pronounced over time. Related: Steve Bannon Looks To Take On Europe

But more troubling than the risk being seen in U.S. markets, however, is what analysts are saying about the worlds second largest economy.

Chinas Debt Bubble and Stock Market Stumble

It appears Chinas bull run is officially over. The Shanghai Composite is already down more than 25 percent from January, and many are suggesting that the sell-off has just begun. To make matters worse, the tit-for-tat tariff war between the U.S. and China is sure to really begin taking its toll in the second half of the year.

China isnt quite in panic mode just yet. The government has put in place a lot of safeguards since the 2015 crash, including a stricter control on capital exiting the country. The Central Bank of China is also investing a lot in onshore markets, hoping to prop up the yuan and maintain consumer confidence. But while China may be able to save its markets temporarily, its piling up even more debt in the process.

In recent years, Chinas debt has soared to tremendous heights, and economists are beginning to worry about how a potential collapse may impact the world as a whole. From its One Belt, One Road initiative to its vast appeal to international investors, there is a lot at stake if the nations economy were to take a turn for the worst.

Will Bitcoin Get a Chance to Shine?

Historically, August, September and October are tough months for stock market investors, often setting the stage for dips, crashes and crises in the months following. This hasnt necessarily been the case for bitcoin, which, especially in 2017, has seen quite the opposite.

Analysts have tried time and time again to piece together some correlation between bitcoin markets and stock markets, but nothing really seems to stick. The truth is, bitcoin is still too young and too small. And with new variables coming into play every day, from regulation to institutional adoption, its impossible to predict what might happen next.

At its core, bitcoin was designed to be resistant to the troubles facing other markets. Its peer-to-peer. Its deflationary. It was built by a person or people who had lost faith in traditional markets.

Related: The U.S. Has A $4.5 Trillion Problem

In fact, the Genesis block even contained a stab at the current financial system: The Times 03/Jan/2009 Chancellor on brink of second bailout for banks.

So hows it living up to its design?

Really, the answer to this question lies in the hands of the users. And unfortunately, as a side effect of its rise in price, its largely still a speculative investment for most rather than a government resistant currency.

The problem with this is that, despite Nakamotos dream, its speculative nature suggests that it could follow markets as they unravel.

Though many hail institutional investors as bitcoins saving grace, they seem to forget that the cryptocurrency was created as a response to a problem that this segment created. And while the conversation about ETFs and institutional services seems to be the loudest right now, theres very little to be heard in opposition to these movements. Do we really want bitcoin tied up in a broken system that will allow the institutions that caused a worldwide financial collapse to be bailed out by their governments?

The danger of institutional adoption vs. actual adoption is clear. While mainstream media will always be quick to highlight bitcoins risk, value or use cases, the real risk may just be in becoming a part of their system.

By Michael Kern via Crypto Insider

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U.S. infrastructure is in desperate need of investmenta fact no one denies, including government officials, experts and the public at large. With most existing systems built decades ago, economists now suggest that project delays, rising maintenance costs and safety issues are holding us back from better economic performance.

It was all supposed to be resolved by Trumps campaign pledge to spend well over a trillion dollars to repair Americas crumbling infrastructure while making the country great again.

In February, Trump proposed a scheme that, he claimed, would boost the countrys infrastructure with $1.5 trillion in spending over the next decade. But since then, not much has been done toward achieving that goal, and now well have to wait and see what the plan is after mid-term elections.

But even $1.5 trillion wont be enough, according to the American Society of Civil Engineers, which estimatess that it would take spending of around $4.5 trillion by 2025 to fix the country's roads, bridges, dams, and other infrastructure.

In it'ss last year, Infrastructure Report Cardissued every four years--ASCE gave U.S. infrastructure an overall grade of D+, saying that the government and private sector will need to increase investment from 2.5 percent to 3.5 percent of GDP by 2025 to raise its overall infrastructure score.

If the government continues on the same trajectory it is currently, it will result in $3.9 trillion in losses to the GDP and 2.5 million jobs lost, the report said.

Consulting firm McKinsey says the economy would benefit from an increase in spending of 1 percent of GDP, which could add 1.5 million new jobs to the mix.

Among the infrastructure categories, roads, dams, energy and transit were the most poorly rated. Related: The New Paradigm In Monetary Markets

On the state level, West Virginia and Mississippi were the worst U.S. states, with the most deplorable infrastructure.

In Mississippi, 51 percent of the roads are in mediocre condition and 13 percent of bridges are deficient. In West Virginia, 36 percent of the states major roads are in either poor or mediocre condition, while half of the bridges need significant repairs.

In addition to age and lack of investment, U.S. infrastructure is apparently being threatened by cyber-attacks from abroad, and while they were less frequent before, now they are almost daily.

In 2013, an Iranian hacker group claimed responsibility for an attack on the New York dam.

In March this year, the U.S. administration blamed the Russian government for a campaign of cyberattacks stretching back at least two years that targeted the U.S. power grid.

Earlier this month, the U.S. intelligence community warned that Russia, China, Iran and North Korea are launching daily cyber strikes on the computer networks that govern American infrastructure. They pointed out huge weakness in the U.S. infrastructure, that the dams, traffic controls and power grids that can be accessed by anyone.

To increase efficiency over the past two decades hundreds of thousands of analog controls in these facilities have been replaced with digital systems. But its also made them much more vulnerable.

The American economy may look good by the numbers right now, but without better infrastructure, theres only so far it can goand when its increasingly vulnerable to attack at the same time, crumbling may end up being the least of worries.

By Michael Scott for Safehaven.com

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The banking industry sighed a collective sigh of relief when president Trump agreed to a new set of legislation in March that eased oversight on the industry and rolled back the crippling Dodd-Frank regulations. The new law lessened rules on a large number of U.S. banks with assets below $250 billion, but preserved stricter rules for the biggest banks.

And for good reason, too.

The recent spate of scandals coming from the countrys largest banks proves that they need to be regulated more, not less. The dust has barely settled after the Department of Justice imposed a hefty $2.09-billion fine on Wells Fargo (NYSE:WFC) for the sale of residential mortgage loans that contained misstated income information. And now the company has reported that it faces U.S. inquiry after it unnecessarily foreclosed about 400 homeowners.

The bank has said that an internal review found that it failed to grant 625 customers modifications to mortgages--despite their being qualified for reliefand eventually carried out foreclosures on 400 homes.

Wells Fargo says that an error in its mortgage underwriting software led to faulty calculation of attorney fees between 2010 and 2015, thus deeming some applicants ineligible.

The bank made the disclosure in its latest 10-Q quarterly filing that it released on Friday.

Long List of Scandals

Wells Fargo spokesman Tom Goyda has apologized on behalf of the bank for the error and announced that the bank has set aside $8 million to compensate customers. Related: Are Valuations Finally Catching Up To Tech Stocks?'

But whats disturbing is the insensitive way he pointed out that some of the 400 affected customers would still have lost their homes regardless of the modification error:

Theres not a 100% clear cause and effect relationship between the modification denial and the ultimate foreclosure, he said.

The improper denials represent yet another case of serious consumer harm caused by the banks long list of fraud, errors and glitches.

Last year, the bank acknowledged forcing 570,000 car-loan customers to pay unnecessary insurance policies. The extra expense resulted in some borrowers ultimately defaulting and having their cars repossessed. The CFPB and the OCC levied a $1-billion fine on the bank for the abuses.

But perhaps the banks most egregious scandal to-date was the 2016 revelation that it had opened 3.5 million dummy accounts using customer personal information and hit them with phony charges to pad its bottom line. The DoJ imposed unusually harsh penalties on Wells Fargo for that one, including a cap on expansion until it fixes its litany of problems. The bank also agreed to pay shareholders $480 million to settle a class action suit over the fake account fraud.

Fines Taking a Toll on Bottom Line

The never-ending line of scandals and fines is taking a heavy toll on the companys bottom line.

On Friday, the lender revealed that reasonably possible legal charges could exceed its reserves by as much as $2.2 billion during the current quarter. Although thats an improvement from last quarters $2.6 billion, it represents nearly half of its $5.2-billion net profit during the last quarter.

Consequently, the banks bottom line growth has been looking anemic over the past couple of years:

(Click to enlarge)

Source: Statista

WFC stock has also been lagging the industry:

(Click to enlarge)

Source: CNN Money

Still, the nice 3-percent dividend yield and massive $22-billion share buyback program have their allure and could prevent the shares from sinking.

By Alex Kimani for Safehaven.com

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In the past couple of years Hindustan Unilever has made tectonic shifts in its business model to become more nimble and agile. It has also reinvented its distribution network. The FMCG major has not just put together a robust e-commerce strategy, it is also empowering the humble kirana store owners through data and artificial intelligence. In a conversation with Ajita Shashidhar, Srinandan Sundaram, Executive Director, Sales and Customer Development, HUL, talks about how the company has re-looked at its go-to-market strategies. Here are the excerpts.

Unilever is known for having the deepest distribution network in India. Can you tell us about your distribution strategy in the last couple of years?

I will first talk about general trade and then modern trade, e-commerce of course is different. There is a lot of technology we have brought into general trade. If you take a longer term read through Nielsen or any external database you will find that per dealer offtakes are going up in some parts of the country, which is also an indicator of the rising affluence and these are places where more stores are also coming up. The difficulty in adding more general trade stores is sustaining the stores in the long term. The big shift we have done in the last couple of years is not just add stores but also see that they are sustainable at least over the next 10-12 months and eventually over the next 2-3 years. Therefore, we have done a lot of checks and balances on what's the right number of stores we can add in a year. The right number of stores is often governed by the absolute number of distributor salesmen we can add so that you do justice to the store on how often does the salesman goes to take the order; how effectively we can reach the stock in a certain period of time. Therefore, the number of stores we add depends on how consistently we are billing the stores in a particular area. That's the true measure of realising high throughput from the store and incremental coverage will not cannibalise your current store.

So how was it earlier?

In the past we added a large number of stores at one shot. We have stopped that. We are not going for quantity, we are going for quality, and that is sustainable. We are also measuring the incremental turnover a store generates for the business. It is similar to how we will evaluate a brand like Ayush or any other brand. If I put so much money it should generate a turnover within a year or two. So, it's the same principle of marketing that we brought into coverage expansion. We are working with lot of partners to identify areas where we can have high throughput outlets.

When did you make this change?

We have been doing this from 2016. That's how we have shifted the target to sustainably covering and monthly measurement of whether we are covering the outlet or not.

What really was the trigger to that?

I think the trigger is first, the realisation from the outside that there are more stores coming up, particularly in tier-1 and tier-2 towns and it's important that we get coverage there because the Nielsen data does show that pattern. Second was to say, if I really have to realise business from it then it's just not important to go and leave the team to scout. There needs to be a technology to say where to scout and there needs to be a system to say how to deliver so that you get the incremental turnover. We are seeing good results so we are sticking to this particular philosophy. That's in general trade.

What has been your strategy in modern trade and e-commerce?

I think in for us in modern trade or even e-commerce we have worked on a very simple principle which is being a tad ahead of the curve. We have done two things, we have resourced ahead of time and ensured we have used the global Unilever set up to expose our talent to the best practices so that if somebody is setting up a new modern trade store we are able to truly partner their learning from the best outside. That's something that has really added value for us in modern trade. Before any company even recognised it, we had a full-fledged set up of modern trade. The teams were trained and when Walmart came to India a series of managers were trained at Walmart to understand the customer systems. Recently when ecommerce started seeing its first signs we did exactly that. We resourced the team ahead. We have trained our teams with wherever Amazon is present. There are some customers we have learnt along the way, like Nykaa. It is new to Unilever because it does not have a cosmetics play, but here we do have with Lakme. We evolved with the customer but engaged very very early. We recently went live on Amazon with an exclusive range from Brylcreem. Many of the features are first for India but are strongly guided by our account managers in the US. They are able to tell us how we can position it and get the best of what Amazon has to offer. In any of the emerging channels the amount of time that our young managers undergo training is disproportionate. But we know that's the kind of investment required to make sure your sales pattern is healthy. When we say healthy we measure ourselves on the fact that our ecommerce shares are higher than our modern trade shares and our modern trade shares are higher than general our trade shares. That also is coming partly from the category strategy and how we want to preimmunise. It also reflective of tomorrow, the channels of the future as they become bigger. Is it a tailwind on the strength of the company or headway? And, because you want the newer channels to be good in gross margins and market share, it is about investing in the best in the business.

How different is e-commerce distribution compared to general trade? What kind of skill sets does one need?

E-commerce is teaching us how we can do business in traditional trade. The whole consumer journey in design, following the consumer, being able to track the consumer during the journey is easier. People often browse on Amazon but don't buy it, they put it in the cart. But you know if it is in the cart the chances of converting is higher. Similarly, if you regularly buy your grocery on Big Basket, there is a smart basket created for you and you don't have to enter your regular purchases again and again. All these concepts are equally relevant to the general trade guys. So the way we navigate the shoppers on any of these platforms has profound impact on what kind of advertising and communication works well. We are also able to put the same products on our GT shelves, which leads to a much better call to action. I think through data in e-commerce we know exactly how we shop and you can bring back those principles, which is what we are trying to do.

Is this some kind of a reverse learning?

It is of course. In many ways in e-commerce, if you are not sharp and not able to explain on mobile in a short period and not able to tell the customer that this is Comfort Fabric conditioner at that price, then she will skip and move. Therefore, it is forcing us to be really precise in what we want to put out in front of the customer's screen. That 5mm screen dictates whether she is going to choose me or not. If we are getting better conversions over there certainly that same mind adapted for general trade should work . I think the bigger push is we are getting into a smaller world. It's all about a 140-word tweet. No longer it is valid to have long descriptions or formats. We need to be sharper about what you want to say because the time span given to you is getting crunched.

Do you expect your e-commerce sales to surpass general trade?

No, for us e-commerce is a channel. We as a company are of the firm belief that the traditional trade is here to stay and we don't believe that the neighbourhood grocer will die. Today in our homes if we need a loaf of bread on a rainy day then he is the one who is going to come and give it. So the level of convenience and service he is able to offer even a modern trade store will not be able to offer. He has changed his assortment, he is able to survive in this environment with better service and even today while a lot of talk happens in modern trade and ecomm as channels of future, general trade is going to stay and is a dominant part of HUL's strategy.

My e-commerce gross margin and market share should be higher than modern trade and that of modern trade should be higher than general trade. So, one of the conscious efforts to drive market share is to drive market development in e-commerce. It certainly is a channel for us which should give us higher margins and shares.

Is grocery retailing going to be the next holy grail for e-commerce companies?

So far in the developed world it is 2%. Grocery strategically for e-commerce players is more important because it is a footfall driver. It won't be the highest revenue contributor. You may buy a phone once in two years, but you will come back to buy your essentials. Every winter you come back to buy a bottle of Vaseline body lotion. It is smaller ticket size but very relevant for that season. From an e-commerce point of view, the focus on grocery will come from making sure that the shoppers are continuously engaged with that particular e-commerce company. To that extent there will be lot more initiatives like Pantry that Amazon has started.

So it will give them volume growth, may not give them value?

It will give them more than volume growth, if I come to your portal or page only then you have a chance of making the upgrade. If I just don't come then how will you update, and that's how grocery will play an important role.

So, you are saying the neighbourhood grocer will not get impacted?

Of course not. If you look at it, before modern trade came in, the general trade guy used to keep few SKUs with a lot of depth. The moment he saw hypermarkets, he understood there are people who seem to be asking for olive oil, so he kept two bottles of olive oil. Like this he started improving the range. The general trade guys are agile and in their own way able to figure out what is selling in bigger shops and keep it as a top up. In the last 8 years, our trips to neighbourhood stores have gone up not gone down. It's just that the value per trip seems to be coming down because they are using it as a top up. Each time you go he is dressing up his store in such a way that he can upsell one or two more items.

I read some time back about you using artificial intelligence in kirana stores. I would like to know more about it.

Very simply put, what we are trying to say is there is a salesman who is going to an outlet and booking an order, we have data of bill level purchase that this store has made from us over the last several years. If I look at the pattern of purchase I am able to make out what are the SKUs likely to sell. We have past data and now we are beginning to use external stimulus. Very simply put, if it is a high income locality, there Indulekha will certainly sell more. Therefore, in such outlets we recommend Indulekha. In a middle-income locality one may be the bigger 100 ml pack of Indulekha might not sell, the 50 ml pack would sell. So, it's a combination of bill level data which is analysed to throw out trends. That's the analytics we are using and that's the machine learning we are talking about.

So, how many stores you have rolled this out in?

All our general trade order booking across the stores that we do is based on this. Everything is based on a set of SKUs that are pushed through in this system as most likely SKUs that he is going to buy and our entire portfolio is split into SKUs that are easy to sell. Because these are the skus we know from the pattern you regularly buy and easy to earn for the salesman.

Can you tell us what Humara Shop is all about?

They are neighbourhood general trade stores and we help them go online. Let's say if you have a general trade store next to this office, 5-6 of us who want to buy something for our house we go to your store online, see the entire assortment and we buy. So in a sense you are becoming an e-commerce company. It is a pilot, we are in experiment stage, we have started it off in Delhi.
Steve Bannon, often called the architect of Donald Trump's presidential victory even if friends so easily become foes in this manic political set-up, is now setting his sights on Europe with a promise to boost far-right sentiment across the pond with a new foundation that plans to hand out resources to Euroskeptics and anti-EU populists.

Bannon says hes setting up a Brussels-based non-profit NGO called "The Movement", which hopes to take on billionaire George Soros, which has given away billions of euros to largely liberal causes since 1980s.

Bannon told media that the non-profit will offer polling, advice on messaging and data targeting, and think-tank research for right-wing groups concerned with threats to sovereignty, border control, jobs and other issues that have populists and nationalists up in arms.

"Right-wing populist nationalism is what will happen. That's what will govern," he told the Daily Beast. "You're going to have individual nation states with their own identities, their own borders."

The timing is important, too. In May 2019, European Parliament will hold Europe-wide elections. Bannon is hoping to play a key role in turning that parliament into a populist establishment by influencing the selection of up to one-third of the lawmakers.

To do that, The Movement is planning to hire up to 10 full-time staffers and set up a headquarters ahead of the 2019 elections. The strategy and staffing sounds rather modest in comparison to the lofty goals 

And, still, we dont know how Bannon plans to fund his far-right dream. Beyond that, its important to note that The Movement doesnt exist yet, even if the idea itself has garnered plenty of attention.

Member of the European Parliament from Germany and center-left politician Udo Bullmann branded Bannons idea an attack on freedom and democracy in Europe, vowing a response to his initiative. Related: U.S. Shuts Down Foreign Software Testing

Liberal Belgian politician Guy Verhofstadt, leader of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) and MEP, wants to ban Bannon from Europe.

The problem for Europe is that these are times that even a non-entity such as Bannon can potentially wreak havoc. Some EU nations have been witnessing a surge of radical right political parties and movements that have been gaining voter support, suggesting that Bannonagainst all oddsmight end up with a decent base if his far-right ideas make their way off paper and find funding.

And it was lost on few that since he was kicked out of the White House and Breitbart News, Bannon has hungrily devoured Europe, looking for a new home for his career. He recently met with the newly elected Italian leadership that had campaigned to leave the Eurozonebut in the end backtracked.

Over the past year, Bannon has also held talks with other right-wing groups across the continent, including British Nigel Farage and members of Marine Le Pens Front National in France, as well as with Hungarys Prime Minister Viktor Orban and the Polish populists. Hes even hit up critics of Pope Francis.

Like it or not, right-wing populism is rising dangerously across the continent, and in its rise, its gaining political credibilitymostly on ideas of anti-immigration and strict border control, as well as issues of sovereignty that these groups feel is threatened by the EU.

Italy, the Czech Republic, Austria and Hungary have all recently elected right-wing leaders.

But uniting all of these far-right parties across Europe will be a formidable challenge, and one that many think a figure like Bannon isnt quite up to. He was too toxic even for Trump.

By Tom Kool for Safehaven.com

More Top Reads From Safehaven.com
" " ESA/ATG medialab; Mars: ESA/DLR/FU Berlin, CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO An illustration of Mars Express, the orbital probe that possesses a handy instrument for discovering what lies below the Martian surface.

It's looking like Mars has a lake, and it's the first ever to be found on the planet. That finding comes courtesy of Italian researchers who dug beneath the thick ice covering the south pole of Mars with satellite radar. They first reported their unique findings on July 25 in Science.

Historically, Mars is no stranger to large quantities of water in solid or gaseous form, and the planet's surface once had liquid water, according to the evidence it left behind in surface rocks. But the question of whether liquid water still exists on Mars has been debated, with some suspecting that it might be hidden under the planet's frozen poles.

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The Italian researchers turned to an instrument on the European Space Agency's Mars Express orbital probe to get some answers. It's called the Mars Advanced Radar for Subsurface and Ionosphere Sounding. MARSIS' ground-penetrating radar sends pulses toward the red planet's surface and times how long it takes for them to be reflected back to the satellite, as this ESA press release explains. It also tracks how strong the returned signals are. Those two factors vary depending on the material the radar pulses encounter. That data, in turn, can be used to map what lies beneath the surface.

So, with a little radar help, the scientists found that Mars' south pole is covered by multiple layers of ice and dust, which extend 0.9 miles (1.5 kilometers) beneath the surface. Under that, however, they found an area whose characteristics indicate that it is a lake, which the scientists believe is filled with water full of salty sediment.

"This subsurface anomaly on Mars has radar properties matching water or water-rich sediments," Roberto Orosei, of the Istituto di Radioastronomia in Bologna and principal investigator of the MARSIS experiment and lead author of the paper, said in the ESA release.

The lake stretches about 12 miles (20 kilometers) across, according to the release.

Now That's Interesting Valerie Ciarletti of the University of Paris-Saclay, a scientist who was not connected with the study, told Science magazine that lakes might be found at lower, warmer latitudes as well. Unlike the frigid brine beneath the south pole, those locations might be more hospitable to microscopic life, she said.
Hindustan Unilever is synonymous with its personal care and home care brands such as Lifebuoy, Dove, Lakme and Surf. However, its food and beverages portfolio, despite contributing 18 per cent to the Rs 35,218 crore FMCG major's revenue, is considered a poor cousin. A large segment of the analyst community also believes that the company has got its food strategy in India wrong, despite a large part of its global revenue coming from foods. In fact, food is just 3 per cent of its revenues in India and the remaining 15 per cent comes from beverages (Brook Bond Tea, Bru Coffee etc). The likes of ITC Foods, which is barely 10 years into this business, has surpassed HUL's food revenues, and is already an over Rs 11,000 crore business. ITC Foods aspires to become a Rs 65,000 crore food business by 2030.

Has HUL missed the food bus? "I don't think we have missed the bus. It is not necessary that you have to be the first to enter. You may enter second or third but you may still be the best. That's what we would endeavour to do," said Sanjiv Mehta, Chairman & MD, HUL, in a recent interview with Business Today.

Mehta is indeed serious about his company's food business. The company has signed an agreement with Karnataka-based Vijaykant Dairy and Food Products, to acquire its ice cream and frozen desserts brand, Adityaa Milk. HUL already has ice-cream brands such as Walls and Magnum and this acquisition will enable it to close the gap with market leader Amul, in the Rs 10,000-odd crore branded ice-cream industry.

The announcement of Adityaa Milk acquisition comes months after the company launched its Ayurvedic breakfast range under brand Ayush in the southern part of the country. But isn't Ayurvedic breakfast too niche a category?

"The genesis of Ayurveda is that what you ingest will make a difference to you. Take a look at what we have launched in the South of India," defends Mehta. "In foods we are very clear we are going to get into categories where we can make differentiated products. We are not going to get into things like chips or snacks which are not healthy. We are going to get into fields which are nutritious, tasty and which will not cost the earth," he adds. The HUL Chairman, on several platforms has expressed his intent to take the company's food business to the next level.

Industry specialists believe that since HUL's focus on its food business is rather late, it should focus on just a few categories rather than carpet bomb. "HUL needs to decide on which categories to focus. It may not be able to do too many things in food, as it is an expensive propostion," points Raghu Vishwanath, MD of brand valuation company, Vertebrand.

In fact, Sudhir Sitapati, Executive Director, Food & Refreshments, HUL, in a recent interview with Business Today, said that while food was top priority for the company, it would not blindly enter a category. "As a company we are very profit conscious. Our general strategy has been to grow profitably while maximising value for our shareholders. In a business which has got two-thirds of tea and one-third of categories which we are still developing, we have been able to do 16 per cent EBIT. So, you have to take us in the context of value creation, which is steady growth, double-digit growth in foods and improving our margins above average category margins."

But looking at everything from ROI lens or shareholder value perspective will not work, points out N. Chandramouli, CEO of brand audit company, TRA. "HUL needs to do lot more in terms of strategy. If they see everything from ROI lens they can't build brands."
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Shares of QuantumScape (NYSE: QS) jumped 8.1% as of 1 p.m. EDT on Thursday after the solid-state rechargeable battery start-up announced that independent third-party tests verified the performance of its batteries as described in the company's own December 2020 presentation. QuantumScape reported that testing of three single-layer cells by Mobile Power Solutions, an independent lab, showed that its batteries successfully completed a simulation of how a battery might work in the real world, being roughly equivalent to 240,000 miles driven by a vehicle with a 300-mile range. This was still a lab test, and it remains to be shown that QuantumScape's technology will work in a real-world application.
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Belarusian authorities on Tuesday detained at least three journalists from two independent news websites over "unauthorised" access to services provided by the state news agency. Tut.by editors Maria Zolotova and Anna Kaltygina were detained along with Tatiana Korovenkova, a BelaPAN journalist, the Belarusian Investigative Committee said. All three are accused of "unauthorised access to computer information for reasons of personal gain," it said in a statement, indicating that a criminal case had been opened. State news agency BelTA has accused them of failing to pay subscription fees. If found guilty, they face up to two years in prison. Tut.by said Ulyana Boboyed, who edits its society section, had also been detained and that several others had also been interrogated. Officials said that between them, the two websites had made more than 15,000 "unauthorised connections" to BelTa without its "knowledge or consent" "As a result of the committed crimes, BelTa suffered significant harm" and its "business reputation was harmed," the Investigative Committee said. - 'Not a political issue' - BelPAN's chief editor Irina Levshina told AFP her news site "does not have a BelTA subscription, but with the agency's agreement we used material from its website with hyperlinks." "We are forced to take this information, as we work in unequal conditions. We do not have access to official information and to the press services of (our) country's leadership," Levshina said. Belarusian foreign ministry spokesman Anatoly Glaz told Russian state media the arrests had "nothing to do with issues of press freedom" in Belarus and were not linked to "the political realm." Speaking to Russia's RIA Novosti news agency, Glaz called the case "purely a legal issue" about "the banal misuse of access to paid information." In a statement, the Council of Europe expressed "great concern" over the case and called for the journalists to be released. In July, a Minsk court sentenced independent journalist Dzmitry Halko to four years in prison for allegedly assaulting a police officer. Belarus is ranked 155th out of 180 in this year's Reporters Without Borders world press freedom index. President Alexander Lukashenko has ruled the ex-Soviet country, which shares borders with three EU member states, with an iron fist since 1994.
The logo of privately owned independent news website "Tut.by" is seen on a flag (C) in front of the office building in Minsk, Belarus August 7, 2018. REUTERS/Vasily Fedosenko

By Andrei Makhovsky

MINSK (Reuters) - Three journalists working for independent news outlets in Belarus were detained on Tuesday on suspicion of hacking the computer systems of state-run news agency BelTA and stealing its data, the authorities said.

The Belarusian Association of Journalists and local media said five people had been detained for a period of three days and several more detained for questioning. Reuters could not independently confirm that information.

Investigators said they had opened a criminal case against two editors from the privately-owned independent news website "Tut.by", the biggest online news portal in the country with 800,000 daily unique users, and against one journalist from the independent news agency BelaPAN.

Local rights groups said the arrests were part of a government drive to muzzle independent media. Last year, the Belarusian authorities put down peaceful opposition protests in a severe crackdown which ended a brief period during which the government had eased its authoritarian rule.

"Without the knowledge or agreement of the republican unitary enterprise (BelTA), information held on its computer system was accessed illegally more than 15,000 times over a two-year period," investigators said in a statement.

Nasha niva, another independent news website, cited a representative of BelTA as saying the detained journalists had used other people's passwords to access its news wire.

Yuri Zisser, the owner of Tut.by, told Reuters that BelTA had never complained before about the use of its information.

"I'm really confused and don't understand what this is about and why it's needed," he said.

Ales Lipai, the director of BelaPAN, said the case was a mystery that had come out of the blue.

"All of BelTA's material is freely available. It's written on their website that you can use their material as long as you provide attribution, which is what we did."

Story continues

A spokesman for the Council of Europe's secretary general called on the Belarusian authorities to free the detained journalists and conduct a transparent investigation.

A spokesman for the Belarusian Foreign Ministry said the detentions had nothing to do with freedom of speech.

"This is purely a legal matter," the ministry said in a statement.

Andrei Bastunets, head of the Belarusian Association of Journalists, said government pressure on independent media had been on the rise in the last year.

"I link this (case) with the general trend and the desire to control the internet space," he said of the detentions.

President Alexander Lukashenko has run Belarus along Soviet-style command lines since 1994. He has heeded some calls from the West to show more leniency towards political opposition, but opponents say their freedom to operate remains severely limited.

(Additional reporting by Yun Chee Foo in Brussels; Writing by Andrew Osborn; Editing by Richard Balmforth)
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un meets participants of the 5th National Conference of War Veterans in this undated photo released by North Korea's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on July 27, 2018. KCNA via REUTERS

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - White House national security adviser John Bolton on Tuesday said North Korea has not taken the necessary steps to denuclearize despite an agreement between Pyongyang's leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump in June.

Bolton, in an interview on Fox News, said U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was prepared to return to North Korea for another meeting with Kim.

"What we really need is not more rhetoric," Bolton said. "What we need is performance from North Korea on denuclearisation."

He said the United States has lived up to the Singapore declaration that followed the June 12 summit Trump and Kim held in Singapore.

"It's just North Korea that has not taken the steps we feel are necessary to denuclearize," Bolton said.

He said the relaxation of any sanctions was not under consideration.

Asked about the possibility of additional meetings, Bolton said Trump in a recent letter to Kim proposed sending Pompeo back to North Korea, and that Trump was ready to meet with Kim any time. The letter was handed to North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho during the weekend.

North Korea's nuclear weapons program has caused international tension for decades and the rhetoric and threats from Kim and Trump had been especially hostile before their June meeting.

(Reporting by Susan Heavey; Editing by Lisa Lambert and Bill Trott)
Fernando Haddad (R), former Sao Paulo mayor and member of Workers' Party (PT), and Manuela D'avila of the Communist Party of Brazil (PCdoB) attend a media conference in Sao Paulo, Brazil August 7, 2018. REUTERS/Paulo Whitaker

SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Brazilian lawmaker Manuela D'Avila said on Tuesday she and former Sao Paulo mayor Fernando Haddad of the Workers Party were ready to win October's presidential election if former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is barred from running.

D'Avila, a presidential hopeful from the Communist Party of Brazil, said she was ready to run as the vice-presidential nominee on the Workers Party ticket under any scenario.

Haddad, who is expected to top the ticket if Lula's bribery conviction blocks his candidacy, said D'Avila would be welcomed as Lula's running mate if the former president is allowed to run.

(Reporting by Eduardo Simoes)
It started with a tweet. The then Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi had made an allegation during the time of Gujarat assembly election campaign in 2017 that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pet 'Make in India' project had "died", citing a report on a drop in the production of 'Nano' cars at the Sanand plant in Gujarat. He alleged that Rs 33,000 crore of Gujarati taxpayer money was turned into "ashes".

Whether it's because of political pressure or not, the plant, which was once operating at 10 per cent of its installed capacity, has overhauled its production infrastructure and created a flexible assembly line for manufacturing Nano, Tiago and Tigor models spread across 21 variants with 150 vehicle combinations. The company issued a press release on Tuesday, saying the plant is operating at 100 per cent of its capacity and it plans a capacity ramp up for meeting the growing demand.

"The plant has so far rolled out over 4,50,000 units, since inception and is among fastest expanding plants of Tata Motors. The Company is currently mapping out its modular architecture plans and will distribute its Passenger Vehicle manufacturing between Pune and Sanand to meet its product expansion plans," said the company.

Tata Motors has almost stopped the business of its small car Nano. The car will be produced only if the manufacturing facility receives a confirmed order from a buyer, the media reported earlier. Just one unit of Nano was produced in June and the company sold just three cars in the domestic market.

Nano was the brainchild of Ratan Tata, who envisaged giving a safer and more affordable alternative to families riding on two-wheelers. The plant was originally planned to be built at Singur in West Bengal, but the land acquisition led to public agitations and, finally, in a police firing 14 people were killed in Nandigram. In October 2008, Tata pulled out from West Bengal project and relocated it to Gujarat following the invitation from the then chief minister Modi. There were objections against acquiring land in Sanand also. However, the state government managed to secure the land. The Sanand plant started operation in mid-2010, but Nano failed to rise up when passenger vehicle business of Tata's was sinking.

Cyrus Mistry, when he was ousted from the post of chairman of Tata group in 2016, said in his letter to the Tata Sons board members that Nano should be scrapped as the project was consistently unprofitable and at its peak lost Rs 1000 crore.

"As there is no line of sight to profitability for the Nano, any turnaround strategy for the company requires it to shut down," Mistry wrote. "Emotional reasons alone have kept us away from this crucial decision," he added.

The TML press note quoted Mayank Pareek, President, Passenger Vehicle Business Unit, and Tata Motors from Sanand plant, "We, at Tata Motors, have been working aggressively towards our core strategy of Turnaround 2.0, aiming to 'Win sustainably in PVs'. A lean manufacturing process plays a key role in our growth strategy enabling the Sanand plant to contribute around 60 per cent of the overall PV production. The plant has evolved to become a modern, state-of-the-art facility and is playing a vital role meeting aspirations of Tiago and Tigor customers."

Spread over 1100 acres of land, it is also producing engines -- Revotron 1.2L - Petrol (Manual & Auto Transmission), Revotorq 1.05L - Diesel, 624 CC, MPFI - Petrol (Manual & Auto Transmission) and 1.2 NGTC - Petrol (Manual & Auto Transmission). The Sanand plant produced the first electric passenger vehicle Tigor EV for commercial use. Being the youngest plant of Tata Motors, this facility leverages technology with over 190 robots, with high levels of automation to increase productivity across processes. In last two years, the number of employees has increased by 80 per cent at 4,500. As of today, the plant has employed, close to 100 per cent blue collar from Gujarat against the mandated requirement of 85 per cent, said the company.
FILE PHOTO: A Venezuelan woman shows her passport and identity card at the Pacaraima border control, Roraima state FILE PHOTO: A Venezuelan woman shows her passport (L) and identity card at the Pacaraima border control, Roraima state, Brazil November 16, 2017. REUTERS/Nacho Doce/File photo

By Ricardo Brito and Anthony Boadle

BRASILIA (Reuters) - A Brazilian federal appeals court judge on Tuesday overturned a ruling barring Venezuelan immigrants fleeing economic and political turmoil from entering Brazil.

On Sunday, a federal judge in the northern state of Roraima ordered the border closed until the state could create "humanitarian" conditions to receive a massive of Venezuelans.

Appeals court judge Kassio Marques acknowledged "grave violations of the public and judicial order," but overturned the lower court's ruling, saying the closure would not improve humanitarian conditions for Venezuelans fleeing their country.

A Foreign Ministry official said the Brazilian government does not contemplate at all closing the border because that would violate its international commitments on human rights and a new immigration law that keeps the door open to all refugees.

The Roraima state government, which has been trying to shut the border to stop the influx of Venezuelans, said it would appeal the latest court decision and seek 184 million reais in federal compensation to cover its additional costs in health, education and public security.

Over the last three years, tens of thousands of Venezuelans have overwhelmed Roraima, causing a humanitarian crisis with families sleeping in the streets amid rising crime and prostitution.

The federal police said that it never actually closed the frontier and had only begun preparations for shutting it on Monday, but the normal flow of Venezuelan immigrants was re-established on Tuesday morning.

A state government official in Roraima said that although the federal police never closed the border, officers did momentarily stop Venezuelans from entering.

"They only let pass those who had been granted asylum, residency or could prove they had passage out of the country," the official told Reuters. "There was even a little protest."

The U.N. Refugee Agency (UNHCR) welcomed the Brazilian judiciary's decision.

Story continues

Nearly 33,000 Venezuelans had asked for asylum in Brazil as of April 30, while another 25,000 had entered the country by other means, including humanitarian visas, labour and migration visas, UNHCR spokesman William Spindler said in Geneva.

"In 2018, the number of asylum seekers from Venezuela is already larger than for the whole of 2017," he told reporters.

Venezuela is in the grip of a severe economic crisis, with shortages of food, medicines and other essentials, and periodic waves of protests against leftist President Nicolas Maduro.

The Brazilian Air Force began flying Venezuelan immigrants in Roraima to other cities of Brazil in May and has so far flown more than 800 Venezuelans out of Boa Vista, the state capital.

(Additional reporting by Staphanie Nebehay in Geneva and Mateus Maia in Brasilia; Writing by Gabriel Stargardter and Anthony Boadle; Editing by Frances Kerry and Sandra Maler)
Reuters

BENGALURU (Reuters) -Maruti Suzuki India Ltd's full-year sales and profit expectations have been upended by the global chip shortage and spike in commodity prices, India's biggest carmaker said on Wednesday, as it missed second-quarter profit forecasts. "At the beginning of the year we did not expect to lose so much production in the second quarter because of chips and maybe lose production in the third quarter," Chairman R.C. Bhargava said after Maruti posted a 65.3% plunge in quarterly net profit.
* PREVIOUS TRADING SESSION MOVES:

* SSEC -1.3 pct, CSI300 -1.3 pct, HSI +0.5 pct

* HK->Shanghai Connect daily quota used 2.9 pct

* HK->Shenzhen Connect daily quota used 3.2 pct

* CNY official close 6.8519 per dollar

* FTSE China A50 -0.3 pct, BNY Mellon ADR China Select Index -0.4 pct

SHANGHAI, Aug 7 (Reuters) - Following is a list of recent corporate and policy announcements, as well as other news that might affect Chinese financial markets. Policy, government, sector news:

* Trump's trade 'extortion' won't work, China state media says

* China c.bank reimposes reserve requirements for some FX options - sources

* China to launch emergency inspections on farms after swine flu outbreak

* Steel mills in China's Hebei cut output due to power shortage Data:

* POLL-China's July new loans seen easing; policymakers wary of trade tensions

* Chinese car imports tumbled 87 pct in June ahead of tariff changes

Company moves:

In focus

* China's Didi to invest $1 bln in its auto services platform

* Haier sees costs spike at GE arm amid steel tariffs, US-China trade spat

* Developer China Evergrande says H1 core profit to more than double

* China's Xiaomi says parts supplier Holitech Technology to invest $200 mln in India

Earnings/Performance

* Beijing Orient Landscape & Environment's H1 net profit up 42.0 percent y/y

* O-Film Tech's H1 net profit up 19.9 percent y/y

* Shenzhen Techand Ecology & Environment's 6-month net profit up 42.9 percent y/y

* Guangdong Tapai's H1 net profit up 177.3 percent y/y

* Gemdale's July contract sales up 74.03 pct at 13.75 bln yuan

* Anhui Jianghuai Automobile6 sold 37,896 vehicles in July, up 19.9 percent y/y

M&A

* China High Speed Railway Technology scraps acquisition plan, SOE might buy stake in company

* Shanghai Electric's share trade to resume after scrapping plans to buy Gl-Poly Energy assets

* Beijing Miteno Communication to acquire zhejiang firm for 2.95 bln yuan Regulation

* Hyunion Holding's unit union mobile financial tech warned and fined by china central bank Other moves (spin-offs, divestitures, deals)

* Pengxin's cobalt hydroxide project in Democratic Republic Of Congo maybe affected

* Muyuan Foods says it has no suspected african swine fever cases (Compiled by Luoyan Liu)
Brazen robbers attacked a Customs Department narcotics unit in Nilai, Seremban, less than an hour from Kuala Lumpur, and left with over RM30 million (US$ 7.34 million) in illicit drugs that had been confiscated by officers in sundry operations.

Masked, the robbers attacked the Department early Sunday morning.

Local media outlet Berita Harian reported that the intruders staged the attack at 3am Sunday morning, entering the premises in a group of ten, having arrived using two four-wheel drive vehicles, and one car.

Two security guards on duty were physically assaulted, and tied up before the thieves broke into a container to take the drugs.

Leaving no questions regarding the motive, nor who may be behind the hit, one of the men reportedly told the guards that the drugs belonged to them.

Well, that settles that!

The post Customs office held-up by armed robbers, drugs worth RM30 million taken appeared first on Coconuts.
Denmark's largest lender Danske Bank on Tuesday said it was complying with Danish prosecutors' investigation into long-standing allegations that it was involved in laundering $8.3 billion through its Estonian branch. State Prosecutor for Serious Economic and International Crime (SOIK), Morten Niels Jakobsen, said Monday Danske Bank was being investigated and prosecutors would examine whether charges would be pressed. "Due to the very serious nature and scope of the case, we have followed it for a long time," Jakobsen said in a statement. He added that the case "has long been highly prioritised" and that "several police reports have been received against Danske Bank in this case." "We have a good and constructive dialogue on an ongoing basis with the authorities, and we will be at the service of SOIK if it needs further clarification on specific matters," Flemming Pristed, Danske Bank's chief counsel told AFP in an e-mail. Danske Bank has been at the centre of a financial scandal since Danish daily Berlingske last year claimed that it had been behind the laundering of around $3.9 billion of dirty money from a string of Eastern European countries. But after receiving bank statements from 20 companies with accounts in Danske Bank's Estonian branch between 2007 and 2015, the paper reported in early July that the real figure was actually more than twice that. - 'Complex network' - The bank statements from 20 companies at Danske Bank are linked to a fraud case exposed by the Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, who was jailed for revealing high-ranking Russian officials involvement in stealing massive tax payments from several companies, including the investment fund Hermitage Capital. Magnitsky died in 2009 aged 37 after being held for a year and denied medical care. Bill Browder, CEO of Hermitage Capital and Magnitsky's former client who was kicked out of Russia for exposing corruption at the largest state owned companies, has spent nine years tracking money laundering in the nation. He said the money was laundered at Danske Bank's Estonian branch after travelling through "a complex network of sham companies and money laundering banks" in Moldova, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Ukraine. Danske Bank has acknowledged that its control over the Estonian branch has not been good enough and launched its own investigation into the matter last year. The results were expected in September. The group finds itself in the company of other major European banks that have been ensnared in massive laundering scandals in recent years including France's BNP Paribas and Germany's Deutsche Bank.
Earlier today, Durex Malaysia threw out the two words that would strike fear in any sexually-active, though not necessarily attached, persons core: Product + Recall.

Gulp.

Yes, turns out that three batches of their Real Feel (perhaps too real?) non-latex condoms have been taken off shelves, and Durex is asking you to keep them off your privates.

Durex is urging the public to refer to the product batch numbers printed on the packaging, and refrain from using the affected condoms with serial numbers 1000433144, 1000438055 and 1000422259.

The manufacturer will only say that the products have not passed the brands stringent shelf-life durability tests, and that there is no immediate danger to the public. They have said that the condoms affected are only a limited number.

Bought some of the recalled rubbers? Click here to find out how to return them.

There you have it! Play it safe: Always use a condom to practice safe sex, and like a pint of milk lingering in the fridge, make sure that lonely condom in your wallet is fresh and within its sell-by date.

In the case of the Real Feel line, double check the serial number to minimize surprises.

The post Durex Malaysia issues product recall over Real Feel condoms appeared first on Coconuts.
FILE PHOTO: Norwegian farms are reflected in the still waters of a fjord in Norway, Oct 6, 2007. REUTERS/Bob Strong/File Photo

By Lefteris Karagiannopoulos

OSLO (Reuters) - The southern Nordic fjords are heating up as Europe boils, and bacteria there are flourishing, infecting swimmers and seafood, including oysters that can take months until they are safe to eat again, Norway's food safety authority said.

The warm waters in southern Norway and Sweden have accelerated the reproduction of the vibrio bacteria, a species that can cause vibriosis, an illness with symptoms as simple as diarrhoea and stomachache but which can also be fatal.

The water in Norway's southern fjords reached 24 degrees Celsius, about 4C higher than average for the season, and the bacteria in the local sea ecosystem have been traced in much larger quantities than usual.

They have already infected the wounds of several swimmers in the Oslo fjord, where people have arrived in droves to beat the heat, but they can also infect people eating raw seafood, the food safety authority said.

"Eating raw oysters is common for Norwegians. People go to cabins during the summer, dive for oysters and eat them... It can take months for raw oysters to be safe again as the water needs to cool," the authority's seafood safety head Lise Rokkone told Reuters.

The fjords are rich with trout and salmon at certain times of year, but eating raw fish should also be avoided, said Rokkone, days after the authority issued an oyster consumption warning.

The extreme heatwave that hit the Nordics this summer has also affected cattle feed, she said, forcing many farmers to either seek feed from Northern Norway or import.

Infected oysters are not however the only heat-related inconvenience Norwegians have to face this summer.

As well as an outdoor barbecue ban barring everyone from heading outside to cook, the number of snake bite incidents has doubled from last year as more people spend time in the forest, while drivers have to be careful in tunnels, where reindeer have taken to sheltering from the heat.

Last week, the Norwegian church even asked believers to light candles and pray for a change in the weather.

(Reporting by Lefteris Karagiannopoulos; Editing by Hugh Lawson)
In the past three months, India has seen 39 incidents of lynching due to mass misinformation spread on WhatsApp. But fake news isn't the only thing that has the government worried - there's the growing misuse of social media for illegal activities such as child pornography and terror, too. So the government is now reportedly mulling an option of blocking popular apps, including Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram.

According to The Economic Times, three weeks ago, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) sent out a letter to stakeholders asking them to look into this option. "You are requested to explore various possible options and confirm how the Instagram/Facebook/WhatsApp/Telegram and other such mobile apps can be blocked on internet," DoT said in a letter dated July 18 that was marked to telcos including Airtel, Jio, Vodafone, Idea, besides telecom and ISP industry bodies.

The letter further stated that the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) and legal enforcement agencies had raised issues regarding social media apps and the matter had been previously discussed during a meeting with the DoT on July 4, where technical inputs were sought to block the apps under the provisions of Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

This section provides for a mechanism for the government to block public access to any online information "in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of the state, friendly relations with foreign states or public order or for preventing incitement to the commission of any cognizable offence relating to the above".

Citing a DoT official, the report added that the ministry has started a "discussion" to address the need for a "reasonable good solution to protect national security", however no decision has yet been taken to block any apps.

Incidentally, this is not the first time that the DoT has sent out feelers to industry representatives on the topic. The department had reportedly sent a similar letter on June 28, followed by a reminder on August 3.

This new development comes against the backdrop of the government's far-from-satisfied response to WhatsApp's recent measures to combat fake news, including curbing forwards and bringing out newspaper ads. An IT ministry official told the daily that Facebook-owned WhatsApp has not acceded to a key demand of the government, which is to trace the origin of a message, and instead reiterated its commitment to end-to-end encryption. "What is the alternative with the government, closing the internet? That would be like throwing the baby with the bath water. So that's why DoT is considering this option," the source added.

But not everybody is on the same page as the Centre. According to the daily, the telecom industry body Cellular Operators Association of India reportedly reverted to the DoT saying that it would be extremely difficult, if not near impossible, to categorically block apps. The Internet Service Providers Association of India (ISPAI) and mobile phone operators are yet to respond to the latest letter while telcos have reportedly made it clear that they won't take the initiative to block any app without a clear directive from the government.

The government newfound zeal to clamp down on social media apps makes more sense when you factor in the 2019 general elections - concerns that fake news may be used to influence the elections have been gaining steam. So, in recent months, teams from WhatsApp and Facebook have come down to India for meetings with Election Commission officials to discuss ways to prevent misuse of the platform in India's coming election cycle.
A German court Tuesday handed down lengthy jail sentences to a couple for repeatedly sexually abusing their young son and selling him to paedophiles online for more than two years. In a case that shocked the country and raised serious questions about child protection services in Germany, the regional court in Freiburg sentenced the boy's mother, Berrin Taha, to 12-and-a-half years in prison. Her husband Christian Lais, the boy's stepfather whom he called "papa", received a 12-year sentence followed by preventive detention. Lais, 39, had a previous conviction for child abuse, raising questions why he was allowed to live in a home with a child present. The court found that the unemployed couple had sexually assaulted the boy, now 10, and pimped him on the so-called darknet between May 2015 and August 2017. They were convicted of rape, aggravated sexual assault of children, forced prostitution and distribution of child pornography, judge Stefan Buergelin said as he read out the verdict. The couple was also ordered to pay a total of 42,500 euros ($49,200) in damages to the boy and another victim, a girl. Their sentences fell short of what prosectors had demanded -- 14 years and six months for Taha and 13 years and six months for Lais. On Monday, the same court sentenced a Spanish paedophile, Javier Gonzalez Diaz, to 10 years' prison for repeatedly sexually abusing the young boy after paying the parents. The 33-year-old was also ordered to pay 18,000 euros to the young victim. The case came to light following an anonymous tip-off last September, and led to the arrest of eight people who have been charged with belonging to an online paedophile ring. Lais admitted on the witness stand to the assaults on the boy. He also made serious accusations against the child's 48-year-old mother, who confessed to the crimes but remained largely silent about any possible motive during the trial. In his verdict, Buergelin said Taha went along with the abuse at first so she would not lose Lais as a partner and later "for financial motives". They charged several thousand euros (dollars) for each instance of abuse, filmed the acts and posted them on the darknet. The boy is in foster care. His lawyer told reporters Tuesday that he was doing well "under the circumstances".
FILE PHOTO: Burned cars are seen following a wildfire at the village of Mati, near Athens, Greece, July 24, 2018. REUTERS/Costas Baltas/File Photo

By Michele Kambas and Lefteris Papadimas

ATHENS (Reuters) - Greece will demolish thousands of illegal buildings in response to the death of dozens of people who were unable to escape a maze of poorly planned streets in the country's worst wildfire disaster.

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, whose government has been accused of a slow response, said Greece must no longer allow illegal construction that has been common for decades in a country dogged by bureaucracy and corruption.

The demolition of 3,200 buildings will start immediately in the Attica region, which includes the capital Athens, he said.

"The chaos of unruly construction, which threatens human lives, can no longer be tolerated," Tsipras said in a speech in the town of Lavrio, down the coast from Mati where at least 91 people died in the blaze on July 23.

Unlicensed constructions are a common feature of the Greek landscape where they even have a name: "afthereta", or "arbitrary" buildings.

Built with apparent impunity, many are rubber stamped later under general amnesties, announced by successive governments in what critics say is a crude but effective way to wield power and gain votes.

Authorities say there were dozens of such buildings in Mati, where people were trapped, with routes to the coast walled off -- illegal under Greek law.

Tsipras said anyone in the process of building unlicensed constructions would be compelled to demolish them.

The disaster has had political repercussions. The head of the civil protection department resigned on Monday, a day after the government replaced the chiefs of the police and the fire brigade.

The civil protection minister resigned on Friday after saying he believed there had been few flaws with the way emergency services tackled the blaze, fuelled by winds blowing at 120 km (70 miles) an hour.

Tsipras's administration has rejected opposition claims that authorities were napping on the job, saying unlicensed building had thrived under previous governments.

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"I would have expected at least the tiniest bit of self-criticism from those who, along with their families, ran the country for more than four decades - not two, three or five years," said Tsipras, a leftist politician elected in 2015.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis, head of the main opposition New Democracy Party, is son of Constantine Mitsotakis, a former prime minister. Fofi Gennimata, head of the small Socialist party which was also dominant for years, is the daughter of a key figure in that party.

(Reporting by Michele Kambas; Editing by Robin Pomeroy)
By Aaron Ross

DAKAR (Reuters) - Three Congo Republic peacekeepers were given sentences of just three years in jail for murdering civilians and are now already free, Human Rights Watch said on Tuesday, describing the sentences as inadequate and unlikely to discourage future abuse.

A court in the Congolese capital Brazzaville sentenced each of the soldiers in April for the killings of 11 civilians committed in 2014 while the soldiers were serving in an African Union peacekeeping mission in Central African Republic. HRW said it secured a copy of the written judgement only last month.

The three men are now free, having already served most of their sentences, HRW said in a statement. Although the court found the soldiers guilty of war crimes which can carry the death penalty under Congolese law, its judgment cited unspecified extenuating circumstances.

"The authorities in the Republic of Congo missed an opportunity to provide justice for the murders of civilians and to show that no peacekeeper is above the law," said Lewis Mudge, a senior researcher at HRW.

"Giving the soldiers who committed murder little more than a slap on the wrist sent a damaging message to other peacekeepers that they risk little if they commit such crimes."

Congo's government spokesman did not respond to a request for comment. The government of President Denis Sassou Nguesso, one of Africa's most secretive with a history of repression at home, has previously rejected claims that it has ignored allegations of human rights abuses against its soldiers.

Failure to hold peacekeepers accountable for crimes committed on foreign soil is a recurring complaint of rights activists. The responsibility to prosecute falls on troop-contributing countries who are often unwilling or unable to press charges against their troops.

According to HRW, the Congolese peacekeepers killed an unarmed boy and arrested at least 12 other civilians in the Central African town of Boali in March 2014 after a peacekeeper was killed in a firefight with a local militia leader.

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The bodies of the 12 people were found nearby in a mass grave in February 2016. The remains of a 7-month-old baby who was also killed were never found, HRW said. The Congolese court judgment referred only to 11 of the victims.

Congo Republic's hundreds of peacekeepers in Central African Republic later became part of a U.N. mission. They were repatriated last year following multiple allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation.

(Reporting by Aaron Ross; Editing by Tim Cocks and Peter Graff)
An Israeli soldier rides an armoured vehicle during an army drill after the visit of Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, Israel August 7, 2018. REUTERS/Amir Cohen

MEROM GOLAN, Golan Heights (Reuters) - Israel's defence minister said on Tuesday that Syria was building up its ground forces beyond their pre-civil war size, an assessment that suggests President Bashar al-Assad's army has recovered from a critical manpower shortage earlier in the war.

The Syrian military was hit by major defections in the first years of the conflict, which began in 2011, and by 2015 Assad acknowledged that "a shortfall in human capacity" meant the army could not fight everywhere for fear of losing vital ground.

Russia intervened militarily soon afterwards to turn the tide of war and has been helping arm and train the Syrian army. Iran has also backed Assad, sending military advisers and allied Shi'ite militia from across the region to support his troops.

Pro-government forces in the Syrian conflict have also included local militias raised by the Lebanese Hezbollah with Iranian support, including the National Defence Forces. [8N1NS4H5]

"Across the way we see the Syrian military, which is not satisfied with just taking over all of Syrian territory but is expressly building a broad-based, new ground army that will return to its previous proportions and beyond," Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman told reporters during a tour of the Golan Heights.

Israel closely monitors the military capacity of Syria, an adversary against which it has fought three wars. It captured part of the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and has occupied it since.

With Assad now regaining control, Israel has voiced worry that he might defy a 44-year-old Golan demilitarisation deal that had stabilised their standoff.

In a Twitter statement, Lieberman said that Israel's tanks, deployed on parts of the strategic plateau that it captured from Syria in a 1967 war, were "our crushing strike force and will know how to defend the border in any eventuality".

In a May interview, Assad also said Syria had improved its air defences with Russian help.

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The Golan saw large tank battles in 1967 and the subsequent Israel-Syria war in 1973. Israel annexed its side of the Golan in 1981, in a move not recognised internationally.

In a July 19 briefing, the chief of Israel's armoured corps told reporters that while the number of Israeli tanks fielded was unlikely to grow, a new, improved tank model would be introduced in 2021.

(Writing by Dan Williams and Angus McDowall, Editing by William Maclean)
Court declared Shahbaz Sharif's son-in-law as proclaimed absconder

An accountability court in Lahore on Tuesday declared PML-N President Shahbaz Sharif's son-in-law, Imran Ali Yousaf, a proclaimed absconder on the request of National Accountability Bureau (NAB).



Yousaf is accused of receiving graft in excess of Rs12 million from Ikram Naveed, the former CEO of the Punjab Power Development Company (PPDC), and is the subject of a NAB probe.



He appeared before NAB investigators in April but has since missed his scheduled hearings and left the country for London.



The bureau, which last month requested the interior ministry to extradite Yousaf via Interpol, today told the accountability court that "warrant of arrest against the accused has been issued by NAB chairman".



"As per IO (investigation officer), the accused has gone underground and is not traceable."



In the light of this, the bureau asked the court to declare Yousaf a proclaimed absconder  a request that was accepted.



In its notice to Yousaf, NAB had said: In the inquiry against Ikram Naveed it has been revealed that you are in possession of evidence which relates to the commission of the said offences. You are also required to record your statement with respect to amounts transferred by Ikram Naveed to you.



According to a source, the then CMs son-in-law was also accused of "getting Naveed appointed as PPDC CEO who allegedly committed massive corruption. NAB is quizzing Yousaf on the information provided about him by Ikram Naveed. The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) had already carried out a probe against Naveed and Yousaf in 2016. It declared Naveed guilty of embezzling Rs450 million.
A luxury yacht allegedly paid for with funds from a multi-billion-dollar scandal that helped topple Malaysia's government arrived outside Kuala Lumpur Tuesday, with authorities hoping it will help in their prosecution of the country's disgraced former leader. The 300-foot (90-metre) Equanimity, equipped with pool, helicopter landing pad and cinema, belonged to Jho Low, a flamboyant international financier who allegedly played a central role in the 1MDB controversy that has engulfed former prime minister Najib Razak. The yacht -- worth about $250 million -- was handed over by Indonesian authorities who had seized it off the tourist island of Bali in February. The large, blue and white boat arrived in Port Klang, west of the capital, after setting sail from the Indonesian island of Batam. It was accompanied by a Malaysian navy frigate and three smaller vessels. A large team of officials was seen entering the yacht. Malaysia's attorney-general welcomed the boat being turned over, and said that "sensitive and delicate negotiations" had taken place between Malaysia, Indonesia and the US to ensure it happened. Indonesian authorities impounded the boat on a request from the US Department of Justice, which is seeking to seize $1.7 billion of assets allegedly bought with money looted from Malaysian sovereign wealth fund 1MDB. Najib, his cronies and family members are accused of stealing huge sums from 1MDB in a sophisticated fraud that spanned the globe. - Shock defeat - Najib's coalition, which had ruled Malaysia uninterrupted for over six decades, suffered a shock election defeat in May to an alliance headed by his former mentor Mahathir Mohamad, 93, in large part due to the corruption allegations. The ex-prime minister was arrested and charged with corruption last month. Najib, who set up and oversaw 1MDB, denies any wrongdoing. In a civil suit seeking to seize assets allegedly bought with 1MDB money, the DoJ alleges that playboy financier Jho Low used about $250 million stolen from the fund to purchase the Cayman Islands-registered yacht. Jho Low -- full name Low Taek Jho -- had no official positions at 1MDB but was said to exert great influence over the fund. His current whereabouts are unknown but Malaysian authorities have said they want to bring him back to the country and prosecute him. The government has said it plans to open the Equanimity to public viewing, before eventually selling it off. Legal experts say the boat could bolster the case against Najib and others linked to the scandal. Cynthia Gabriel, a member of an official team set up to recover assets allegedly bought with stolen 1MDB money, said that the Equanimity being handed over to Malaysia was "very significant". After Mahathir announced Monday that Indonesia was handing over the Equanimity, the DoJ sought to suspend ongoing legal action in the US courts to take possession of the yacht. In a filing to a California court, the justice department proposed "that all proceedings in this action be suspended in order to give the government and any interested claimant the opportunity to inquire of Malaysia through formal channels what its intentions are with respect to the defendant yacht".
FILE PHOTO: Malaysia's former prime minister Najib Razak arrives to give a statement to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in Putrajaya, Malaysia May 24, 2018. REUTERS/Lai Seng Sin/File Photo

KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - Malaysia's embattled former prime minister Najib Razak will be charged on Wednesday under a money-laundering act, the anti-graft agency said, in connection with a multi-billion-dollar scandal at state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

Najib, 65, and his family have faced intense scrutiny since May, when a shock election result brought his former mentor-turned-foe, 93-year-old Mahathir Mohamad, back to power.

Mahathir swiftly reopened an investigation into 1MDB and barred Najib and his wife, Rosmah Mansor, from leaving the country.

Last month, Najib was arrested and charged with abuse of power and criminal breach of trust related to an alleged transfer of 42 million ringgit ($10.31 million) into his personal bank account from SRC International, a former unit of 1MDB.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released after posting bail.

On Tuesday, he was summoned to the office of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), a day before his pre-trial hearing in court.

He was questioned for about 45 minutes. In a statement soon after Najib left its office, the anti-graft agency said he would be charged under the anti-money laundering act.

"The charges are related to the SRC International case," it said in a statement.

Najib's spokesman declined to comment.

1MDB is being investigated by at least six countries, including Singapore, Switzerland and the United States, over alleged money laundering and graft.

The U.S. Department of Justice says an estimated $4.5 billion was misappropriated from 1MDB by high-level officials of the fund and their associates.

($1=4.0750 ringgit)

(Reporting by Rozanna Latiff and Joseph Sipalan; Writing by Praveen Menon; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore and Clarence Fernandez)
By Dan Whitcomb

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A Northern California wildfire became the biggest in state history on Tuesday, eclipsing a previous record set only eight months ago, as hot, windy conditions fanned 17 blazes in what Governor Jerry Brown has called California's "new normal."

The Mendocino Complex, made up of two fires, grew to 290,692 acres (117,639 hectares) - nearly the size of Los Angeles - and was expected to burn for the rest of the month, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said.

The Mendocino Complex has surpassed the Thomas Fire, which burned 281,893 acres in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties in southern California last December and destroyed more than 1,000 structures.

The fires burning in the state are on track to make 2018 California's most destructive wildfire year in over a decade and have rekindled arguments over how the state should tackle the problem.

Brown, a Democrat, and state Republicans like Senator Ted Gaines, have called for thinning of overcrowded forests, a move opposed by environmentalists who fear it would kill wildlife.

Climate change is widely blamed for higher temperatures that have fuelled wildfires not only in California, but places such as Portugal, Sweden and Siberia.

Temperatures in Northern California could reach 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 Celsius) over the next few days, the National Weather Service said, making it easier for fire to spread.

HITTING BACKYARDS

The Mendocino Complex has burnt 75 homes and forced the evacuation of 23,322 people. Firefighters are trying to keep fire out of homes built in woods and forests near communities such as Nice, Lucerne and Clearlake Oaks.

"It's going into residences, backyards, farmland," said Mitch Bosma, a spokesman with Cal Fire for the Mendocino Complex Fire.

Across the state, 14,000 firefighters fought blazes that have blackened over 619,000 acres.

The Carr Fire, blamed for seven deaths in the Shasta-Trinity region north of Sacramento, was 47 percent contained.

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Firefighters were also battling a 4,000-acre brush fire that forced evacuations in two Orange County canyons southeast of Los Angeles, the Orange County Emergency Operations Center said. The Holy Fire was moving rapidly into the Cleveland National Forest, which straddles Orange and Riverside counties.

The blaze and its plume of smoke were visible from as far away as Catalina Island just offshore Los Angeles.

(Editing by Bill Tarrant and Diane Craft)
(PHOTO: McDonalds Singapore)

Fast food chain McDonalds has launched the new Rendang Sedap Angus Beef Burger in anticipation of National Day.

Priced at $6.95, the locally inspired burger features a 100 per cent Angus beef patty dipped in rendang sauce made from coconut milk, ginger, kaffir lime, lemongrass, onion, garlic and spices.

The patty is accompanied by a fried egg, sliced red onions, grilled caramelised onions, lettuce, and sesame seed buns.

The burger, which soft-launches today, will be officially available from 9 August after breakfast hours in all restaurants, as well as through McDelivery and Grab Food for a limited period only, while stocks last.

Customers can also enjoy the burger as part of the Rendang Sedap Feast priced at $10.90, which consists of a D24 Durian McFlurry, a pack of medium Criss Cut Fries, and a small Coke.

The rendang burger comes on the back of another locally inspired menu item rolled out by McDonalds last month  the Ha Ha Cheong Gai burger.

Follow Yahoo Lifestyle Singapore on Facebook.

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Burger Kings Rendang Beef, Hainanese Tendergrill Chicken burgers to return for National Day
Shahbaz Sharif requested recounting of votes in Karachi

KARACHI: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shahbaz Sharif has filed a request in the Sindh High Court (SHC) for the recounting of votes in NA-249, Karachi.



Shahbaz Sharifs request reads that even prior to polling the political atmosphere was engineered to favor his opponent Faisal Vawda. He alleged that security officers were ordered to take of his posters in order to vandalize his campaigning.



Shahbaz further stated in his request that his polling agents were pushed out of the polling stations during counting and were not handed the form 45 either.



He also stated that the returning officer of NA-249 has already rejected his appeal for a recounting of votes and further said such a decision was illegal. His final note in his appeal was that the Election Commission should not, as of yet, issue a victory notification to Pakistan Tehreek e Insafs (PTI) Faisal Vawda.
Pakistan must decide by the end of September if it will go to the IMF to bail out its economy, which is facing a balance-of-payments crisis, the likely new finance minister Asad Umar said Tuesday. "By the end of September, we should make our decision," Umar, a member of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of Imran Khan, which won Pakistan's elections on July 25 and is now seeking to form a coalition government. Umar, who is widely tipped to become Khan's finance minister, reiterated his stance that Pakistan was examining other options as well as the IMF, including loans from friendly countries or remittances from overseas Pakistanis. He spoke a week after the US raised fears that Pakistan could use any bailout from the International Monetary Fund to pay off debts to China. Pakistan has gone to the IMF repeatedly since the late 1980s. The last time was in 2013, when Islamabad got a $6.6 billion loan to tackle a similar crisis. Analysts have said this time that the new government will have to act quickly as the country teeters on the verge of a new balance-of-payments crisis which could threaten its currency and its ability to repay debts or pay for imports. Its budget deficit has grown steadily over the past five years, from four percent to 10 percent of GDP. As a result, its foreign currency reserves have declined to about $10.3 billion, covering less than two months of imports. The rupee has been devalued four times since December, fuelling inflation. Umar said his party has not yet been given access to the official data. But he was quick to add that while the situation is "dire", it is not the first time Pakistan has faced such challenges. "We came out of it earlier, we will come out of it again," he said. Analysts say Pakistan needs a loan of around $12 billion to turn the corner, but a diplomat has told AFP Islamabad is betting on a loan of at least $6.5 billion from the IMF to get it through the crisis. However there are fears the terms of any new loan will be more stringent than in 2013, due to tense relations with the US, the lender's biggest donor. In July, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo voiced concerns over any IMF bailout being used to repay Chinese loans to Islamabad. "There's no rationale for IMF tax dollars -- and associated with that, American dollars that are part of the IMF funding -- for those to go to bail out Chinese bondholders or China itself," Pompeo told US television station CNBC. The state of national finances could also undermine one of Khan's most popular promises, his "Islamic welfare state", based on increased spending on education and health. "Obviously, the scale of these interventions... will be more limited initially with the resource constraints, but it will grow in size. You will not have to wait five years to see things that are new and different," Umar said.
MANILA, Aug 7 (Reuters) - Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte will cancel Landing International Development Ltd's $1.5 billion integrated casino project in the capital, his spokesman said minutes after the Hong Kong-listed firm broke ground on Tuesday.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said the lease contract that Landing signed with a state-owned foundation in March has significantly put the government at a disadvantage because the rental payment was "unconscionable". (Reporting by Neil Jerome Morales; Editing by Himani Sarkar)
Polish Foreign Minister Jacek Czaputowicz on Monday condemned Russia's "occupation" of a part of Georgia ahead of the 10th anniversary of Moscow's lightning war with Tbilisi. "Standing alongside Georgian authorities, we want to remind the world what happened in August 2008: the violation of Georgia's independence, the tragedy of thousands of families chased out of their houses, hundreds of people dead and wounded," Czaputowicz told reporters in Warsaw. "We want to recall the first military aggression, in Europe's post-war history, by a country against a sovereign state and the occupation of its territory that continues to this day." Czaputowicz was expected to leave for Tbilisi with his Latvian and Lithuanian counterparts for Tuesday's ceremonies, which will also be attended by Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Pavlo Rozenko. In the summer of 2008, Georgian forces launched an offensive against separatists in South Ossetia, a small pro-Russian region on the border of the two countries. Russia swiftly responded with a military operation in defence of the separatists and rapidly overwhelmed the Georgian forces, even threatening to take Tbilisi during the five-day war. A peace treaty was eventually hammered out by then-French President Nicolas Sarkozy that led to the withdrawal of Russian forces. But Moscow recognised as independent the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, where it has stationed a large military presence ever since.
Posts about Edmund Burke written by janerockhouse. ... But nevertheless he is quoted thus in the Holocaust exhibition at the Imperial .... concentration camps

For evil to triumph it is only necessary for good men to do nothing.

Edmund Burke didnt actually say this quote famously attributed to him. What he actually said was more profound:

When bad men combine, the good must associate; else they will fall, one by one, an unpitied sacrifice in a contemptible struggle.

But nevertheless he is quoted thus in the Holocaust exhibition at the Imperial War Museum. You would think they would know better. But I digress. This is not a blog about dodgy quotations.

Yesterday I visited London with my family, a half-term day return trip by train. It was a really lovely, if exhausting, day. We had nine hours clear in London, bookended by two 3-hour train rides.

We had hoped to take the kids to the new Dr Who Experience at Olympia but left it too late to book tickets. It was opening week after all, so not surprisingly there was no space to be had.

Instead we decided to head for the Science Museum, and booked an afternoon IMAX 3D movie all about space and the Hubble. That left us a couple of hours free for sight-seeing. On the way down, I think somewhere around Cradley Heath (home of Green Teeth Keith (long story)), my elder son asked if we could go to the Imperial War Museum.

Why? we asked, surprised mainly because of our sons non-aggressive, confrontation-hating tendencies. Well, I really like learning about war and I think it would be good. So thats where we agreed to head.

We looked at tanks, and guns, and planes, and more guns, and rockets. We climbed into a World War 1 trench (incredibly good; even smelled dirty and sweaty and stale and felt oppressive and scary) and followed an interactive trail about the causes of WWII. Then we saw a sign for the Holocaust Exhibition, on the top floor. Not recommended for children under 14, it said. Elder son, aged 10, asked if he could go anyway.

It might be quite harrowing. It is about a period of history and events that are pretty shocking. Are you sure you want to go? I asked. Yeah  weve done Anne Frank at school, mum. I know all about it.

The next half hour was fascinating, and horrifying, and informative, and gruesome. We saw the rise of Hitler; we saw footage of the Nuremberg Rally; we saw Hitler Youth uniforms and more swastikas than the BNP dream of. Elder son drank it all in.

We saw the beginning of Jewish persecution. We saw a simple yet fascinating film on the deeply held anti-Semitism of Christians through history.

We saw the slow but inevitable march towards Kristallnacht. It all starts innocuously, with silly insults, and exclusion, and book burning, and laws that can be dressed up as practical but which are truly hate-riven.

Where one burns books one will, in the end, burn people. Heinrich Heine, German-Jewish poet, 1797-1856.

We watched sad and yet heroic interviews with Jews who survived the onslaught. All of it in a hushed, whispering atmosphere, everywhere gently lit to ensure our focus was solely on the pictures and videos on the walls around us.

Next we found ourselves in a mock-up of a train carriage, just like the ones used to transport milllions of Jews to the concentration camps.

One of my abiding memories will be a simple graph, depicting how the final solution was an interwoven collaboration of transport, building companies, the utilities, nazi governors in nations across Eastern Europe, the SS and the German army. They were all in on it. This was no forced brutality by a strong minority; this was a majority collusion.

Then came the final, most intense assault on our senses. Auschwitz, in tiny model form. All white. No colour, in keeping with the sombre mood.

We imagined, and saw in miniature, the families departing the crowded trains into the cold air; the last heart-breaking separation of men and women and children; the final long walk. At the last the tiny figures head underground, into the gas chambers.

All the way through the exhibition I kept asking elder son: Do you want to carry on?

Around him were repeated images of naked body upon naked body in mass graves. An iconic image of a Jewish man, gun at his head, kneeling on the edge of a mass grave, drew a gasp from him. That mans about to be shot dead, isnt he?

But while I didnt want him to be traumatised, there was something about me that willed him to see it through to the end.

Along the way we talked a little about what we saw and felt; about how horrendously cruel humans can be to each other; how easy it can be for people to go along with the herd out of fear of reprisal or out of a desire to fit in; how wrong it is to judge people on the colour of their skin, or their religion, or their background.

My son will undoubtedly grow up with prejudices, and beliefs that are based on things he has been told by the media, by his teachers, by his pals and by us, his parents. He will probably be mean to some people. He will almost certainly experience hatred, and anger, and envy, and every other negative emotion. He will experience bullying, either as a giver or receiver. Its all part of human nature.

But Im really glad he both wanted to, and seemed to understand and learn from, his exposure to the Holocaust, even the sanitised version he saw yesterday. I just hope it doesnt give him too many nightmares.

Incidentally, I told one relative I had taken him to this exhibition, and was asked why I would want him to see that. Hes too young for things like that. Why take away his innocence? Was I right? I think I was  but maybe not? Perhaps at 10 he is too young to know the horrors man can inflict on fellow man.

If it helps, he spent the afternoon marvelling at the wonders of the natural world and the fantastic things man has done and is capable of doing for each other, courtesy of the wonderful Science Museum. He got to see the life of an astronaut, to travel through Space with Hubble, to fly an aeroplane and to gun down bad pollutants in the atmosphere to preserve our climate.

I hope it provided a nice balance  the inhumanity that man is capable of, contrasted with the incredible good man can do, and teh miracle of life and the universe.
Shaheen Air to provide 100,000 in compensation to passengers

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court has ordered Shaheen Air to provide 100,000 in compensation to all passengers who were stranded on Guangzhou Airport in China for three days.



The three member bench headed by the Chief Justice of Paksitan (CJP) Saqib Nisar comprised of Justice Ijaz ul Ahsan and Justice Umar Atta Bandial.



The CEO of Shaheen Air Ahsan Subhai appeared in court today and expressed regret that passengers had to face the delay.



The Chief Justice asserted that Shaheen Air will have to compensate the passengers and before that is done the CEOs name will be placed on the Exit Control List (ECL).



The Attorney General said in court that the Shaheen Air in in debt with a billion PKR and was warned prior to their flight regarding the cancellation. Justice Ijaz remarked that Shaheen Airs attitude resulted in the China crisis.



CEO Ahsan Subhai has said that Shaheen Air is ready to provide 5 million PKR in compensation.



Shaheen Airs lawyer further said that the airline took care of all expenses of the stranded passengers and that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) should be held accountable.
Spain's defence ministry said Tuesday it has opened an investigation after one of its Eurofighter jets accidentally fired a missile in the skies over Estonia during a routine training mission. "A Spanish Eurofighter based in Lithuania accidentally fired a missile without causing any harm," the ministry said in a statement, adding that the incident happened Tuesday afternoon "in an area of southwest Estonia authorised for this type of exercise". "The air-to-air missile has not hit any aircraft. The defence ministry has opened an investigation to clarify the exact cause of the incident," it added. Two Spanish Eurofighter jets, and two French Mirage 2000 jets, were taking part in the training exercise in the Baltic country, the ministry said. After the incident the jets returned an air base in Siauliai in northern Lithuania where they are based. The missile carried up to 10 kilos (22 pounds) of explosives and is designed to self-destruct in the event of such accidents, but it may have landed on the ground, according to Spanish media reports. Estonian Prime Minister Juri Ratas said on Facebook "thank God" there were "no human casualties" due to this "startling incident", which he called "extremely regrettable". "I am sure that the Estonian defence forces will, in cooperation with our allies, identify all the circumstances of the case and make every effort to make sure that nothing like this happens again," he added.
Paul Manafort (L), former campaign chairman for U.S. President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, U.S., December 11, 2017, and Rick Gates, former campaign aide to Trump, in Washington, U.S., December 11, 2017 are pictured in this combination photograph. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts/File Photo

By Sarah N. Lynch, Nathan Layne and Karen Freifeld

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Reuters) - The star witness in the trial against former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort faced tough questioning on cross-examination on Tuesday about a "secret life" that included an extramarital affair and stealing funds from his former boss.

Rick Gates, who served as a right-hand man to Manafort in his political consulting business for a decade, acknowledged maintaining a flat in London for the affair, inflating expense reports and a long list of other misdeeds.

"In essence, I was living beyond my means," Gates testified. "I'm taking responsibility for it. I made a mistake."

Gates, who is cooperating with U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. election, testified on Monday that he helped Manafort doctor financial statements, hide foreign income and evade hundreds of thousands of dollars in U.S. income taxes.

Under questioning by defence attorney Kevin Downing on Tuesday, Gates acknowledged writing a fraudulent letter to prospective investors in a movie project and possibly submitting personal expenses to Trump's inaugural committee for reimbursement. Gates also worked on the campaign.

Downing sought to portray Gates as an inveterate liar, raising questions about whether he has been truthful with Mueller even when he cut a plea deal in February in which he admitted to lying to investigators and conspiring to defraud the United States.

"After all the lies you told you expect this jury to believe you?" Downing asked Gates, who responded that he did.

"I'm here to tell the truth," Gates shot back. "Mr. Manafort had the same path. I'm here."

Undercutting Gates' credibility is the foundation of Manafort's defence. Manafort, 69, has pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of bank fraud, tax fraud and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts containing tens of millions of dollars earned from work for Russian-backed politicians in Ukraine.

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The charges in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, largely predate the five months Manafort spent on Trump's campaign.

On Monday and earlier Tuesday, Gates testified that he and Manafort had engaged in numerous improper financial manoeuvres involving their work in Ukraine, but Gates, 46, pinned the responsibility on Manafort.

When it was his turn for questioning, Downing accused Gates of having a "separate, secret life" with his lover in London and of using business expenses to pay for the affair, including an apartment in the British capital.

"There is a period of time over 10 years ago when I had a relationship, yes," Gates said.

He also acknowledged writing a fraudulent letter to prospective investors for a movie project involving Steve Brown, a business associate.

"You committed fraud with Mr. Brown as a favour?" Downing asked him.

Gates replied: "I did. I admit to that."

Manafort's trial is the first on charges brought by Mueller's office. While outside the scope of the trial, Mueller is also investigating whether Trump campaign members coordinated with Russian officials, an allegation President Donald Trump denies.

Gates pleaded guilty to lying to investigators and conspiring to defraud the United States.

Questioned by prosecutors earlier on Tuesday, Gates testified that Manafort instructed him not to tell their firm's bookkeeper about payments from accounts in Cyprus that held millions of dollars in earnings from consulting work for pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine.

There were hundreds of emails showing Manafort approved payments out of the Cypriot accounts, he said.

Gates' testimony was part of the prosecution's effort to prove that Manafort was responsible for financial manoeuverings that he and other witnesses have testified include filing false tax returns and failing to report foreign bank accounts.

One part of Gates' testimony led to some laughter in the courtroom.

"Not happy. I just saw this. WTF," Manafort wrote to Gates in an email entered into evidence showing Manafort's reaction when he learned how much money he would have to pay in 2014 taxes.

Gates said that he helped create documents to convert some income to a loan to lower Manafort's tax bill.

"You created a loan agreement for a loan that didnt exist? prosecutor Greg Andres asked him. "Yes, we did," he replied.

He testified about a complex scheme in which earnings from Manafort's political work in Ukraine would be paid by Ukrainian businessmen using companies in Cyprus to other Cyprus-based companies controlled by Manafort.

Prosecutors showed contracts laying out that Manafort would be paid $4 million a year in quarterly instalments of $1 million, all channelled through Cyprus. The funds were logged as loans in order to meet later audits in Cyprus that required documentation of transfers between bank accounts, but Gates testified they were in fact compensation to Manafort.

"A lot of these loan agreements are backdated," Gates said.

Money from the Ukraine work dried up after pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych was forced from power in 2014, Gates testified. A $1 million payment for work in 2014 was "significantly past due" and "Mr. Manafort was quite upset the money had not been sent," Gates told the court.

Manafort's Kiev-based aide Konstantin Kilimnik was able to collect $500,000, Gates said, but "to my knowledge it was never paid in full." Kilimnik was indicted in the Mueller investigation in June.

(Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch, Nathan Layne and Karen Freifeld; Additional reporting by Lisa Lambert; Writing by Warren Strobel; Editing by Grant McCool and Lisa Shumaker)
Taiwans transport ministry is said to be considering countermeasures against foreign airlines that have yielded to Beijings demand that they refer to the island as part of China on their websites.

In addition to barring them from using passenger boarding bridges at airports, the carriers could also be subject to random adjustments to their take-off and landing slots by air traffic controllers as Taipei tries to apply pressure on them, a Taipei-based newspaper reported on Monday, citing an unnamed ministry source.

Meanwhile, carriers that took a more neutral approach to the request from Beijing  by just dropping the country name from their Taiwan destinations  would be given incentives such as reduced or no landing fees and facilities charges, according to United Daily News.

On April 25, Beijing issued an order to 44 international airlines that operate mainland routes to stop listing Taiwan as a country on their websites and instead refer to it as Taiwan, China or the China Taiwan region. It also wanted the airlines to display Taiwan on their maps in the same colour used for mainland China. The White House described the demands as Orwellian nonsense.

Four US carriers  American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines  removed any reference to Taiwan, using only city names on their booking pages. Hong Kongs airlines changed the reference to Taiwan, China, while many international carriers also complied with the demand.

Beijing sees Taiwan as a part of its territory awaiting reunification, by force if necessary, even though the island views itself as a sovereign nation and is a self-ruling democracy.

Taiwanese transport minister Wu Hong-mo said Taipei could not accept such an arrangement and would have to take countermeasures, according to United Daily News. The newspaper then quoted an unnamed ministry source giving details of what those countermeasures might include.

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The report drew criticism from academics and opposition lawmakers in Taiwan, who described the measures as absurd, saying they would create huge inconvenience for passengers and could lead to retaliatory action from countries whose airlines had been targeted.

But government spokeswoman Kolas Yotaka said any countermeasures were just at the discussion stage within the transport ministry and had not been decided on.

We havent received any proposals from the ministry about how to deal with this case, and as the government, we have to consider the rights and interests of our people, she said, adding that causing inconvenience to passengers would go against government policy.

Deputy transport minister Wang Kwo-tsai said the ministry had written to the airlines asking them to go back to their original way of referring to Taiwan, but it had yet to decide how to deal with the issue if they did not comply.

American Airlines, Emirates and Cathay Pacific did not respond to requests for comment. A Korean Air spokesman said the airline had not received any notification from Taiwans transport ministry about possible countermeasures, while a Singapore Airlines spokesman declined to comment, saying its communications with the regulators were confidential.

Additional reporting by Ernest Kao and Danny Lee

This article Taipei may hit back at airlines that complied with Taiwan, China demand first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.
Singapores office market is in the early stages of a recovery as tapering office supply and strong pre-commitment levels have caused the office vacancy rate to decline, offering landlords higher bargaining power to increase rents.

Office rent is expected to increase by 20 to 25 per cent between 2018 and 2020, of which 12 to 16 per cent is expected in 2018, said Regina Lim, head of capital markets research at JLL in Southeast Asia, adding that prime office rents have already risen by 6 per cent in the first half.

According to Lim, the Singapore government is focusing on building up decentralised office hubs to bring jobs closer to homes.

For the first time since 2003, there have not been any central business district office sites in the confirmed or reserve lists in the second half of 2017, first half of 2018, and second half of 2018 government land sales programme.

JLL believes that this will keep office supply low until 2023 to 2024 and that could boost rental growth between 2020-2023.

Confidence is high in Singapores commercial property market, with the pre-commitment levels as high as more 70 per cent in Marina One, said Lim.

Completed at the end of 2017, Marina One is a commercial, residential and retail complex that offers 175,000 square metres of office space. Tenants include Facebook, Prudential and PwC Singapore.

Confidence is high in Singapores commercial property market

Regina Lim, head of capital markets research at JLL in Southeast Asia

CapitaSpring, which will be completed in April 2021, has also recorded a pre-commitment level of 24 per cent, with JP Morgan committing to 155,000 square feet of office space.

Allianz, on the other hand, will account for 50,000 sq ft in ASB Tower, set for completion in July 2020.

The accelerated office demand is coming from a variety of sectors, with a more diversified market compared to the over reliance on the finance sector around a decade ago.

Financial companies, which took up 47 per cent of gross office space between 2004 and 2014, accounted for 23 per cent between 2015 and 2017. On the other hand, the share of technology firms jumped from 8 per cent to 25 per cent over the same period, said Lam.

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Meanwhile, occupied office space in the central business district expanded by 6 per cent year on year in the first half of 2018, compared to 3.2 per cent year on year in 2017 and 1 per cent year on year in 2016.

Around 15 years ago, global firms in the finance sector tended to open their Asia-Pacific headquarters in either Hong Kong or Singapore. But nowadays, there is a growing tendency for international companies to set up a base for the East Asia in Hong Kong or Shanghai, along with a base for Southeast Asia in Singapore.

Despite the recovery, Singapore office rents remain well below major Asian cities. Prime office rents in Hong Kong, Tokyo, Beijing and Shanghai Pudong are 2.9 times, 1.5 times, 1.4 times and 1.3 times higher than Singapore, according to JLL.

This article Tapering Singapore office supply gives landlords room to increase rents first appeared on South China Morning Post

For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2018.

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Hundreds of thousands of tea plantation workers in eastern India went on a three-day strike Tuesday demanding a 50 cent increase in their daily wage from the government and estate owners. The strike in the Himalayan foothills of West Bengal state, close to the picturesque Darjeeling hill station, stopped work at most tea estates in the region. "More than 400,000 workers from around 370 tea gardens are participating in the three-day strike," Aloke Chakraborty, president of the central committee of united union of plantation workers, told AFP. "The minimum daily wage for a worker at the plantation is 169 rupees ($2.46). We have demanded a 20 percent raise to 203 rupees ($2.96)," he added. The striking workers have so far not disrupted work at the Darjeeling plantations, famed for their eponymous tea which is exported across the world. Media reports said the strike was being supported by around two dozen local labour unions. The unions hope to exert maximum pressure as disruption of work around the ongoing Indian monsoon -- when production peaks -- means bigger financial losses for the owners. "We are sympathetic to the issue and are trying to find a solution to the long-standing demand of raising the minimum wages of tea workers," regional minister Gautam Dev told journalists. A vestige of British-ruled India, the tea plantations in parts of eastern and northeastern India often make national headlines over wage disputes and poor working conditions for the workers.
The wife of a Japanese journalist kidnapped in Syria more than three years ago broke her silence Tuesday to plead for his release after he appeared in a hostage video. Jumpei Yasuda, a 44-year-old freelancer, was kidnapped in the war-torn country in June 2015, and appeared in a rare video that emerged last week warning that he was in a bad situation. "There are a lot of people in Japan -- his family, relatives, friends -- waiting for my husband," his wife Myu told a news conference in Tokyo. "Please return my husband safe as soon as possible," she said tearfully. "As his wife, as his family, I want him... to set foot back on Japanese soil." Last week Yasuda and captured Italian national Alessandro Sandrini appeared in two separate videos that were similar in their staging. Both men were wearing orange outfits similar to those of captives in jihadist hostage videos, with armed men whose faces were covered standing behind them. The videos did not identify which group was holding the men or include specific demands. Myu, who married Yasuda in 2008, said she had previously avoided speaking publicly about his abduction for fear she could affect negotiations for his release. But she said when she watched the video, she felt her husband's situation was "not optimistic but urgent" and decided to publicly seek his release. The video also prompted some of the journalist's friends and family to form a group to free him, campaigning to boost public awareness of the abduction. Yasuda is thought to have been seized by the group previously known as the Al-Nusra Front, a former Al-Qaeda affiliate, in northern Syria. But with the shifting territory of Syria's complicated conflict, it is unclear whether he is still being held by his original abductors or has been transferred to other captors. In the latest video, he identified himself as Korean and gave a different name, but spoke in Japanese. He gave the recording date as July 25, saying he was in a bad situation and asking for help. His wife said she had no idea why Yasuda had identified himself as Korean in the video, but confirmed that it showed him and that he is Japanese. She said Japanese government officials were in frequent contact with her but she was not aware if a ransom had been demanded. In 2015 militants from the Islamic State group beheaded Japanese war correspondent Kenji Goto and his friend Haruna Yukawa in Syria. The Japanese government was criticised for what detractors saw as its flat-footed response to the crisis at the time, including apparently missed opportunities to free both men.
Earlier this year as the winter came to an end, a few of us decided to escape the tendencies of British springtime towards inclemency and spend a long weekend sampling the transitions, beers and karaoke bars of Madrid. Me, Macey Sherman, Harry Jarvis and Jack Moorhead flew out to meet up with Amanda Perez Cicala and her crew to hit a wide array of concrete, plus Madrids shiny new vert ramp which lay next to an incredible looking bowl which unfortunately had been waxed into oblivion by the local rollerblade infestation. Id like to say this was a throwback peculiar to a suburban corner of Madrid, like those Japanese Army soldiers who were found up until the 1970s in various remote locations with the belief that World War II was still ongoing, but unfortunately I saw a pair of the twats at Peckham Rye leaving their ectoplasm all over the miniramp two days ago. Legazpi Skatepark was similarly slick, but thankfully the bowl itself had somehow avoided falling victim to the eight wheeled plague.

The Spanish capital is a city long known for its plethora of street spots but isnt short of options for the determined bowl trowl. We hit a couple of other fun parks over the weekend, but the main focus for me was Alcobendas AKA Nepal Skatepark; a place Ive been set on visiting ever since the LBP part of Howard Cookes section in Heroin Skateboards Live From Antarctica. It didnt disappoint, I spent the whole day skating the oval red bowl and could have probably kept going for another couple of days, as long as I was given free reign to fall asleep in karaoke bars at will.*

Cheers to all the Madrid crew we skated and boozed with!

Music:

Orden Mundial  Estas en la Mierda

Slobheads  Whip It karaoke

*In the interests of journalistic integrity, I should probably state now that, not long after filming Macey and Harry AKA Slobheads covering Whip It and quite soon after me and Amanda somehow got stuck in front of a group of pissed Spanish women with only the vaguest of ideas about hitting notes, the combination of all day sun washed down with Mahou had me fitting in a solid nap, in front of the still busy stage.
For Immediate Release

Read the full letter here >>

Former UN Special Rapporteur on Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment Juan E. Mendez has issued a letter to the American Psychological Association (APA) in advance of its August 2018 annual meeting, urging it to reject the proposed amendment to its policy on the role of military and operational psychologists in detention facilities. As Mendez states, The current policy dictates that only independent psychologists, who are working directly for the detainee or for an independent third party working to protect human rights, can provide assessment and treatment for detainees held in conditions that violate international human rights law, such as at the Guantanamo Bay detention facility or at CIA black sites. Adoption of APAs New Business Item 35B (35B) would permit military psychologists, who must answer to the detaining State (i.e., who work for the Department of Defense or the intelligence agencies), to provide such treatment and assessment. Adopting 35B would be a disturbing reversal in the fight against torture and open the door to future abuse.

In his letter, Mendez notes that the proponents of NBI 36B misapply the relevant international law while also flagging credible reports that medical practitioners at Guantanamo have systematically ignored the effects of torture and ill-treatment and have permitted the violation of treatment confidentiality. This includes documentation of neglect of medical evidence of torture by PHR experts Dr. Vincent Iacopino and Brig. Gen. Stephen N. Xenakis: http://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1001027

Read the full letter here >>

Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) is a New York-based advocacy organization that uses science and medicine to prevent mass atrocities and severe human rights violations. Learn more here.
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
Pollution is slowing the melting of Arctic sea ice, for now

Posted on 7 August 2018 by John Abraham

The Arctic is one of the canaries in the coal mine for climate change. Long ago, scientists predicted it would warm quicker than other parts of the planet, and they were right. Currently, the Arctic is among the fastest-warming places on the planet. Part of the reason is that as the Arctic warms, ice melts and ocean water is uncovered. The ocean is darker than ice so it in turn absorbs more sunlight and increases its warming. This is a feedback loop.

Another reason is that the Arctic doesnt get that much sunlight so increased energy from the atmosphere has a bigger influence there than it would have elsewhere.

Scientists have looked to the Arctic for clues and hints of human climate change over the past decades. The fact that the Arctic is warming has led to a 70% reduction in the volume of summer sea ice  an enormous loss of ice.

Decline in September Arctic ice extent (not volume). Illustration: Nasa

A recent paper just published in the Journal of Climate by the American Meteorological Society takes an in-depth look at how fast the Arctic ice is melting and why. According to the paper, the authors completed a detection and attribution study of Arctic sea ice decline from 1953 to 2012. That is 60 years of data that tell the picture of climate change. The detection part of this study was about detecting what long-term trends are apparent over these six decades. The attribution part of the study is figuring out what is the cause of the trends.

Why six decades? Well the authors wanted to go back as far as they could while still accessing high-quality records of the ice extent. They used three different sets of data that record the extent of ice in the region.

In terms of attribution, the authors looked for fingerprints of human activity. Humans emit greenhouse gases that trap heat. We know that and we have known that for a long time. Greenhouse gases make the Arctic warmer. But, other things are happening too. There are natural changes to the Arctic. There are also other human pollutants that affect the ice. For instance, humans emit small particles called aerosols that can get into the atmosphere and block sunlight. So, these human aerosol emissions can actually cause cooling.

The authors concluded that the combined cooling effect from human aerosols was detected in all three datasets of ice. That means, it didnt matter whose measurements you used  the effect of aerosol cooling was present.

So how much of an effect do aerosols have? It turns out 23% of the warming caused by greenhouse gases was offset by the cooling from aerosols. Unfortunately, this isnt good news. It means that if/when humans reduce our aerosol pollution, the warming in the Arctic and the ice loss there will be worse.

This puts us into a Faustian bargain. We want to reduce airborne pollution, like sulfur aerosols. But, if we do that, it makes the effects of greenhouse gas pollution worse.

Click here to read the rest
Dear Prudence is online weekly to chat live with readers. Heres an edited transcript of this weeks chat, which was guest hosted by Nicole Cliffe. Daniel Mallory Ortberg will return next week.

Q. How can I avoid being jealous?: I would like to know if I should have a conversation with my fiancee about her work spouse. My fiancee and I met at work. We became great friends and eventually decided to begin dating once I was moved to a different department. We still work in the same building and have lunch together every day. She invites a male co-worker to join us most days. I know her co-worker as he was previously my co-worker also. Oftentimes during lunch, I feel uncomfortable about how my fiancee acts toward him. I suspect she has a crush, but I also know its innocent. What bothers me most is the emotional aspect. I feel as though she is very deferential and agreeable with the co-worker, often at my expense. She also makes sexual jokes and has created an atmosphere where he feels it is OK to do that as well. Should I say anything? Or am I reading too much into this?

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A: Yeesh. The person who coined the phrase work spouse has much to answer for. I am surprised you have not already said, Most days Id like lunch to be just us, going forward. Her reaction will tell you a lot. Im not at all certain that her crush is innocent, but I am quite confident these weird lunches are bad for all three of you.

This is a good opportunity to work on your relationship before you find yourself walking down the aisle with someone who might not have the maturityor the desireto go the distance. There is nothing wrong with saying that youre made uncomfortable by her swapping sexual jokes with a co-worker, and if youre hesitant to do so in case she reacts badly, this is not a great situation.

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Im concerned that your fiancee is already crushing on someone else during your engagement, a time period during which youre usually still feeling each other up in bathrooms and doodling your initials on scrap paper. Dont dismiss your concerns.

Q. Grandma: My grandmother died recently after a long illness; before that, she asked each grandchild what item they wanted, and it was marked with a sticker and photographed with everything going in the will. She wanted to avoid the squabbling that arose after her mother and sisters died. The funeral is over, the house sold, and all the personal possessions passed on. I, among my cousins, admired and asked about my grandmothers jewelry, specifically her engagement and wedding rings. They are semiprecious and have been in the family for over four generations. I am not married or planning on ever getting married, but I have a fondness for family history. My first cousin, Rhonda, has announced that she is engaged and that she deserves the rings since she is first of the cousins to get married. Rhonda got the paid-off car when my grandmother died. She never asked about any other sentimental items. Rhonda and her mother (my aunt) have essentially demanded the rings from me; there was no asking.

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I would honestly tell them both to go screw themselves since they had years to ask about the rings, but they have gotten to my mother. She has told me there is no point in me keeping the rings, and they belong to people extending the family line. I do wear the rings sometimes; I also can tell the story about how they came into our family. (Rhonda couldnt remember the names of our great-grandparents if her life depended on it.) I feel stuck. My mother is putting a lot of pressure on me, and I feel betrayed. I dont see why the magic words engaged or wedding should undo my grandmothers will or rob me of my inheritance. If my younger brothers asked me for the rings, I would happily give them up, but not randomly to Rhonda. How do I deal with this?

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A: Do not give Rhonda the rings. Tell her youll leave them to her in your will, and then refuse to engage further. I would go to the mattresses over this one.

How to Get Advice From Prudie:

 Send questions for publication to prudence@slate.com. (Questions may be edited.)

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Q. Resentful feminist: Ive been with my husband for five years, and the breadwinner since Day 1 of our relationship. He worked part time and then became a stay-at-home dad to our daughter. He is still struggling to finish college as a full-time student right now; I have my Ph.D. and pay all of the bills for us and our toddler. He cooks, does the dishes, cleans a bit, and is a fantastic dad to our daughter. Hes also wonderfully loving and supports my career. But Im the only one working, and I do all of the logistics of our liferemember doctor appointments, pay taxes, plan outings, arrange for the mortgage for our house, buy our insurance, etc. It has always been clear that Id be the alpha partnerbut Im really tired. I feel a lot of pressure to keep up our way of life and take care of everyones wants and needs. Im really starting to resent being in charge all the time and paying all the bills, but when I leave responsibilities up to him, he usually messes them up. And if he quits school now, hell never make half of what I do (and we committed to putting him through school anyway). How do I handle this resentment? I feel like Im looking at 20 more years of this.

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A: Oh, boy. I am sure you feel completely slammed, and you probably are! Your husband, however, isnt exactly phoning it in. From what youve said here, hes a stay-at-home dad, a full-time student, and cooks and does the dishes, in addition to cleaning a bit. Thats pretty good! Human nature being what it is, very few of us are capable of feeling contentment at the idea of doing anything for 20 more years, so I dont see that as much of a red flag.

He will, conceivably, not be in school forever, at which point your lives will look quite different. I do sympathize completely with his tendency to botch extra responsibilities when you give them to him, but my sense is that you two are currently dividing your familial workload fairly equitably, and I have to imagine hes just as tired as you are.

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Find time to be a couple, try to stop keeping score, and keep offloading tasks to him until he gets it right. You dont want to wind up doing everything yourself because hes feigned helplessness.

Q. Therapy thanks: How could I appropriately thank a therapist? My therapist has helped me move past a major plateau in my emotional health and development, but its such a unique and for the most part one-sided dynamic, how could I go about expressing to her my appreciation for the help shes offered me? Usually this would be the kind of thing Id ask my therapist.

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A: The greatest gift you can give your therapist is signaling that she has helped you understand appropriate boundaries and not overthink situations. Thank her warmly, with your words, and get back to work on hitting that next plateau.

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Q. +1 arguments: My fiance and I are in a long-distance relationship, about two and a half hours apart. I do the majority of driving back and forth so we can see each other every weekend, leaving on Friday after work and then driving back on Mondays at 5:30 a.m. This weekend I will be with him FridaySunday, then leave for a work conference about 40 minutes away from his home SundayWednesday, where my work is paying for me to stay at the conference hotel. He was initially mad that I wasnt staying with him instead, but as a compromise I am skipping the conference social event Monday night for a date with him. I am, however, attending Tuesday nights event. I didnt think to invite my fiance as a plus one, because its a statewide work conference on a weekdayhow many people will have their partners with them if most people are from out of town? Now he is unhappy about not being invited. I dont mind if he would like to come, but was I wrong not to include him?

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A: Hes being ridiculous, and Im not at all sure that skipping the conference social event was a great idea; usually, if your company is sending you to a work conference, they expect you to do everything, even the wine-and-cheese mixers and trust-fall exercises. He knew you were there for work, these are not evenings he would generally be able to spend with you, and by all accounts you are the person who has been doing the heavy lifting on the long-distance driving in the first place.

I would explain, politely but firmly, that you have greatly enjoyed your weekend together, but that MondayWednesday is a work trip for you, not a personal trip for both of you, and that it would not be appropriate to cross the streams. Im happy to give him the benefit of the doubt and say that hes just excited to see more of you and disappointed that the work portion of your trip is about, well, work, but if he continues making a fuss, I would firm up my recommendations accordingly. Under no circumstances should you agree to bring him to your Tuesday event, regardless.

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Q. Re: Therapy thanks: Your therapist knows how grateful you are, believe me. But you can always say so explicitly. Ethical rules make it difficult for therapists to accept anything more than a small gift or trinket. Just showing up and paying on time are the best thanks you can give any therapist.

A: Ah, yes, paying on time! Always in style.

Q. That is not my husband!: Last Saturday after heavily drinking with a group of friends, I woke up to my husband using a sex toy on me while I was unconscious. It caused me enough pain to tell him to stop, and then I must have fallen back to sleep. I woke up again to him violating me in a way that I told him I was not comfortable having sex. I had to beat my husband with my fists to get him off of me, after saying no did not work. I wish I could say that this is the first time anything like this has happened, but its not. In our years together, there have been at least four incidents like this that I recall. The last time it happened, I told him that if it ever did again I would leave him. He told me that he doesnt like that I gave him an ultimatum. I feel like asking your husband not to rape you is not an ultimatum.

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Now what do I do? I am living with him, and we are acting like nothing happened. In fact, since I discussed what I remembered with him, he has been cold to me like I did something wrong. This is nothing like the husband and father that lives with me every day and takes loving care of our children. I dont know what to do. I am beside myself. Do you think there is something darker in his nature, or is he just a deviant drunk?

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A: I am not particularly interested in whether he was born bad because his pregnant mother saw a two-headed goat or became bad because of alcohol, your husband is a rapist and there is absolutely no reason to think that he will continue to take loving care of your mutual children. You need to write down everything you remember about the previous instances, and then call the police and file for divorce. Hes a dangerous man.

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If you missed Part 1 of this weeks chat, click here to read it.

Discuss this column on the Dear Prudence Facebook page!

Vintage Dear Prudence

Recently I decided to get a job teaching English abroad. I felt fortunate to get hired exactly where I wanted to go and am now happily living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The problem is my parents. I knew they would be appalled at the idea of their young daughter going to live in the Middle East, even in a relatively safe place like Dubai. So  I told them I had accepted a job in Tokyo. Ive been living in Dubai for eight months, and as far as I know they havent caught on. Ive made up stories about struggling with sushi and the Japanese language and even spent a fair amount of time learning about Japan to make my lie more believable. My parents dont use social media, so there isnt much danger of them finding out via that route. I love my life here in Dubai and would like to renew my contract, but I feel awful for lying to them! I also feel awful imagining how they will feel if they ever find out the truth. Please help me figure out what to do that will hurt my parents (and me!) the least.

And find even more letters in the Dear Prudie archive.
The fight over the confirmation of Judge Brett Kavanaugh has now reached peak nice guy. This is the stage in any judicial confirmation battle (with the exception of the fight over Merrick Garland, who never even got to the actual human designation), in which people let us know that, judicial merits notwithstanding, the nominee is a really, really good guy and should be confirmed to a lifetime position on the Supreme Court for that reason.

This phase was launched, in Kavanaughs case, with the Carpool Wizard column from a school parent extolling the personal qualities Judge Kavanaugh brought to his kids school. It was immediately followed by the Radical Feminist column from Yales Amy Chua, about the judges graciousness to the offspring of Yale faculty. It reached its apogee with the column in last weekends Kind Conservative testimonial by a Supreme Court advocate who will someday practice before him. The presumption throughout has been that the best way to heal the corrosive partisan warfare in the Senate is for Democrats to poke themselves repeatedly in the liver with tiny cocktail forks because, after all, someone has to stand down.

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I am not here to pile on to the necessary and sufficient critiques advanced by liberals who dont believe that niceness and being polite on a panel are the key metrics by which to evaluate the future decider of constitutional liberty. I like Brett Kavanaugh. If niceness-to-me-alone is the sole indicator of judicial qualification then, like the authors above, Im all in. Kavanaugh has never been anything but kind and courteous to me, personally. Unfortunately, that calculation leaves out millions of nameless, faceless, vulnerable people who dont often get a chance to write op-eds about the carpool skills and free-floating niceness of Article III jurists.

Niceness is nice. Id even go so far as to venture that niceness is very, very nice. But its not the basis from which to offer someone lifetime tenure on the highest court in the land. And I am still waiting for the Republican appellate lawyers, D.C. lobbyists, and operatives to stand up and tell us how nice Judge Garland was. Because I would submit that he was just about equal in niceness to Kavanaugh, and yet it mattered not one bit to anyone two years ago, since at that time, niceness was irrelevant. At the very least, then, we should be able to agree that if Garlands kindness to small animals and assorted D.C. charities was immaterial in 2016, Kavanaughs warmth of character should not be an issue in 2018.

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The Trump administration wants Kavanaughs fitness evaluated by the same standard that the Supreme Court applied in the travel ban case. In Trump v. Hawaii, the court was asked to assess an executive order signed by a president who had campaigned on the promise that he would, if elected, effectuate a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States until our countrys representatives can figure out what is going on. The court was asked to assess whether Trumps claims that Islam hates us and his reference to the second version of the ban as a watered down and politically correct retread of the original, might shed any light on the constitutional claim that his ban was rooted in religious animus toward Islam.

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Instead of looking directly at the presidents numerous anti-Muslim statements, the majority of the justices, in an opinion penned by Chief Justice John Roberts, looked to the presidency itself, which has historically been used to espouse the principles of religious freedom and tolerance on which this Nation was founded. And in light of that lofty history, the court chose not to denounce Trumps bigoted statements but to consider not only the statements of a particular President, but also the authority of the Presidency itself. The court then determined that since the third version of the executive order restricting travel from almost exclusively Muslim countries is neutral on its face, the subjective intention and desires of the president are immaterial. And voilathe presidents grotesque comments had been cleansed of any racial animus such that the majority feels no need to contend with them.

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The administration, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley want the same deferential standard applied to Kavanaugh. Dont look at the long record he amassed as a member of the prosecutorial team looking into the Clinton presidency, or as staff secretary to the George W. Bush White House evaluating the treatment of Guantanamo detainees, or as a featured speaker on the conservative lecture circuit giving his thoughts on Roe v. Wade. None of these things matter. Hes a nice guy.

Whether Kavanaugh is nice person who treats his law clerks and peers with respect is not irrelevant to the job of being a justice. At most, though, its an atomically small factor when compared to the views on law and public policy that will shed light on how Kavanaugh would vote on cases of constitutional importance. So, lets give Kavanaugh the same searching inquiry that Ruth Bader Ginsburg received in 1993 when the Senate grilled her about her work as the head of the American Civil Liberties Unions Womens Rights Project, a law professor, and a federal judge. If Kavanaugh is fit to be a Supreme Court justice then the conversation should be focused on the judgment exhibited throughout his career as a lawyer and a judge, not his carpool etiquette.

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Rather than the deep substantive discussion that the moment demands, the treatment of Kavanaughs nomination has been dominated by aggrieved demands for civility, decency, and the earnest pinkie swears of the 1 percent. But the person who drove a stake in the heart of whatever remained of civility and decency is the same person who nominated Kavanaugh. This is Trumps M.O.: to offer neither civility nor decency to anyone who isnt wealthy and powerful, and then to demand it for himself and those with whom he chooses to associate. By these lights, tearing apart families seeking asylum is civil. Refusing service to Sarah Huckabee Sanders is not. Trashing the media and people of color is civil. Speaking ill of Judge Kavanaugh is not.

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So lets be done with the civility of convenience, which weve learned only flows in a single direction and doesnt apply if you are poor or brown or suffering. If confirmed, Kavanaugh could spend the next four decades on the court. We cant afford to let the numb deference Trump continues to demand for himself and his allies immunize Kavanuaghs record from thorough examination just because hes a lovely guy. Teen asylum-seekers at the border dont get special solicitude for being sweet people.

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Ask any law clerk at the Supreme Court to name the warmest, kindest justice on the bench and they will tell you Clarence Thomas is that guy. Every time. Thats not nothing, but it isnt anything close to everything. Being lovely to people around you isnt a proxy for judicial ideology and methodology. Lets please respect Kavanaugh enough to stop talking about his mad carpooling skills. Its insulting to him as well as to the rest of us. He is being elevated to a lofty office. Lets take a page from the Supreme Court and start appreciating the enormity of that office itself. The state of Brett Kavanaughs niceness is not a constitutional question.
On Monday night, the city of West Hollywood unanimously voted to pass a resolution requesting the removal of Donald Trumps Hollywood Walk of Fame star.

That star has been a constant source of conflict since Trumps candidacy, even sparking an open and violent brawl late last month between aspiring social media stars of different political leanings. It has twice been destroyed, most recently with a pickax, and has been repeatedly vandalized and defaced. One protester erected a miniature border wall around the star, while another placed a gold-painted toilet on top of it with instructions for the public to take a Trump.

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The City Council has no actual legal ability to remove the star, as that falls under the jurisdiction of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which has indicated it would not move in the immediate future to remove the marker. Once we receive a communication from the City of West Hollywood, it will be referred to our Executive Committee for consideration at their next meeting, chamber president Leron Gubler told CNN. As of now, there are no plans to remove any stars from the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

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Trump received his star in 2007 for his work on the Miss Universe Pageant.

It was the first time the City Council of West Hollywood had asked for a star to be removed from the walk, West Hollywood Mayor John Duran told the Washington Post.

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The resolution passed Monday night cites Trumps disturbing treatment of women and other actions that do not meet the shared values of the City of West Hollywood, the region, state, and country. The resolution went on to discuss, among other things, the Access Hollywood tape, the family separations at the border, the transgender troops ban, and continued refusal to hold Russia accountable for its crimes.

The resolution also asked that those overseeing the Walk of Fame consider weighing a celebritys personal history in the decision to give out a star. According to the Post, West Hollywood mayor pro tempore John DAmico also suggested the chamber of commerce should also begin to ask if others should be removed.
On Monday, Steven Perlberg of BuzzFeed News reported that in 2012, Jared Kushner personally ordered a software developer at his newspaper to remove stories that were critical of his friends and real estate peers. According to Perlbergs story, Kushner went around the editorial leaders at the New York Observer  to mandate the removal of a handful of articles from the website. Per BuzzFeed News, White House spokespeople did not return requests for comment on Kushners behalf.

The software developer who removed the stories, Austin Smith, wrote about the deletions on the website Y Combinator the day before BuzzFeed News published its report. After Jared Kushner originally bought the New York Observer, I was hired to lead the tech team, which I did for a year and a half in house then for three more as a vendor, Smith wrote on Sunday. He asked me, out of band, to blackhole articles critical of his commercial real estate colleagues and I complied.

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That wasnt the first time Smithwho is now the CEO of the tech consultancy Alleyhad written about these events. As he noted on Twitter, Smith described Kushners request in an April 2016 blog post that did not mention President Donald Trumps son-in-law by name.

Earlier in my own career, when I worked to keep the New York Observers web site afloat during a period of transition, the publisher asked me to quietly remove a number of articles, and I did. What did I know? Nothing, of course, and thats why he asked me.

Smith said on Monday that he knew of four articles that Kushner asked to be taken down from the Observers website:

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Those stories included a piece that BuzzFeed News described as centering on a settlement between then-New York attorney general Andrew Cuomo and real estate firm Vantage Properties regarding allegations that the company had illegally forced tenants out of their apartments to raise rents. Another of the pieces was about Adam Silver, who is now the commissioner of the NBA, buying a $6.75 million apartment. While the other three stories Smith listed appear to have been scrubbed from the internet, the Silver piece can be read in full here.

Update, Aug. 7, 8 a.m. ET: A Twitter user managed to track down two more of the four stories that Kushner ordered deleted: Cuomo Settles With Rublers Vantage Properties (written by Slates politics editor Reid Pillifant in February 2010) and Score! Neil Rubler Makes Voices 10 Worst Landlords of 10 (written by Dana Rubinstein in March 2010). Both stories, which are viewable by the Internet Archive, center on real estate investor Neil Rubler.
Make no mistake: The purpose of President Trumps revived sanctions against Iran is to foment the overthrow of its government. The questions: Will the tactic work; and, if it does, who will step into power? The answers: Probably not, and they wont be pro-American democrats.

The renewal of sanctions, the first stage of which went into effect Tuesday at midnight, is a logical extension of Trumps withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. The terms of that deal were that Iran would dismantle its nuclear machinery and, in exchange, the United States and the other signatories (Britain, France, Russia, China, and Germany) would lift sanctions that had been imposed as a penalty for its nuclear program.

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Ordinarily reimposing U.S. sanctions would have had little effect, as the United States does next to no business with Iran. But Trump went an extra step: He imposed secondary sanctionsmeaning that any country continuing to do business with Iran will also come under sanctions and will be barred from doing any financial transactions with the United States, including simply dealing in U.S. dollars.

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This is an extraordinary thing by any measure. Trump is not imposing, and has never imposed, secondary sanctions against North Koreas trading partners, despite his claim that he is continuing a policy of maximum pressure until Kim Jong-un denuclearizes. Nor, despite renewed pressure on Cuba, has heor any previous presidentpenalized other countries for trading with Havana.

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EU countries, which continue to back the Iran nuclear deal, say they will resist the U.S. sanctions, which could entail penalizing European companies that comply with Trumps policy. But this is easier said than done. Most of these companies have much bigger stakes in dollars than they do in Iranian transactions. And as for the EU penalties, theres no way to prove that some company canceled a contract strictly in order to go along with Trump; it could claim that it did so for any number of commercially sound (or unsound but legal) reasons.

However, China (especially the Chinese state bank, which deals in its own currency) may operate according to a different calculus. The same is true of Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, both of which have enormous interests in Iran. Russia as well might keep doing business there, figuring that Trump wont impose more sanctions on Vladimir Putin. Many small entities are capable of smuggling goods and currency in and out of Iran, under the radar. And if the Europeans do openly resist, will Trump really crack down on them?

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Renewing sanctions on Iran would be a tough sell, even in the most harmonious climate. Certainly it was bad diplomacy for Trump to come out with a policy of pressuring the Europeans and China to follow Washingtons lead on an economic embargo against Iran, while, at the same time, confronting them in a trade war and alienating them on so many other fronts. Trump is now facing a situation where our closest allies are not just grumbling about him but trying to figure out a way to thwart his will.

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These are the sorts of demands a country makes of a defeated power at the end of a war.

And for what? When Trump announced his withdrawal from the deal in May, he said, We will be instituting the highest level of economic sanction, in that any nation that helps Iran in its quest for nuclear weapons could also be strongly sanctioned by the United States. But no nations economic transactions with Iran are doing anything to aid its quest for nuclear weapons, mainly because there is no such quest. The International Atomic Energy Agency has attested several times that Iran is in full compliance with the deals (very restrictive) terms. Most military and intelligence officialsin the United States, Europe, and Israelsupport the deal. (Only the anti-Iranian Sunni Arab states and very conservative politicians oppose the deal. Most notable here is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has boasted that he convinced Trump to pull out of the deal.)

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National security adviser John Bolton denies that Trump wants regime change in Tehran. But Secretary of State Mike Pompeo strongly suggested otherwise in a speech last month to Iranian Americans in California. Not long before that, in a May speech at the Heritage Foundation, Pompeo demanded that Iran halt uranium enrichment (not just reduce it to the point where it cant make a nuclear weapon), stop developing missiles, withdraw its forces from Syria, and end its support for Hezbollah, Hamas, and other militias. These are the sorts of demands a country makes of a defeated power at the end of a war, and its unimaginable that Irans current government would comply with them as long as it remains in power.

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One could make a case that it would be in the best interestfor the United States, Israel, Middle Eastern stability, the West at large, and not least the Iranian peopleif the Iranian regime folded and was replaced by more peaceful and democratic leaders. But this also isnt likely to happen. More to the point, Trumps policiesthe withdrawal from the nuclear deal and the stiffening of sanctionsare weakening Irans moderate factions and strengthening its hardliners.

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U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded, in their briefings to Trump and other senior officials, that the sanctions would likely weaken Irans pragmatic factionsincluding President Hassan Rouhaniand strengthen the grip that the hard-liners, especially the Revolutionary Guard, hold over the countrys economy and politics.

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Colin Kahl, a senior fellow at Stanford University who worked on Iran policy in the White House and the Pentagon during the Obama administration, said in an email on Tuesday that, since the signing of the Iran deal, Rouhani had made incremental but real progress in getting Ayatollah Ali Khamanei to reduce the Revolutonary Guards role in politics. But Trumps withdrawal, Kahl said, has reversed Rouhanis gains. Hes now having to defer more to the Guard, who are in I told you so mode about American treachery.  Kahl says he cant rule out regime changeif fully enforced, secondary sanctions can have a brutal effect on Irans economybut he added, It is hard to see how this all leads to a reduction of Irans malign activities. Instead, the Guard may actually be positioned to capitalize on domestic turmoil to seize power. If this happened, Irans new leaders would be even more hostile to Western interests, and more keen to restart the nuclear program, than the current leadership.

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So, with this one move, Trump has irritated the allies, opened a new avenue for Russian and Chinese influence in the Middle East, strengthened the hard-liners in Iran, and heightened the chances that theyll revive Irans nuclear programall for the sake of killing a deal that blocked this program for the next two decades, and in pursuit of the pipe dream, which has been punctured in so many other dark escapades in U.S. foreign policy, that ousting an unfriendly regime will bring to power a much friendlier one.

Further evidence that Trumps vision of America First is, in fact, America alone.
A pair of fires tearing through the Lake, Colusa, and Mendocino counties in Northern California, known jointly as the Mendocino Complex fire, became on Monday the largest wildfire ever recorded in California after burning through 283,000 acres in just 11 days.

It topped a record established just eight months ago by the Thomas fire, which consumed roughly 282,000 acres in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. The Thomas fire raged uncontrolled for about five weeks and destroyed about 1,000 homes and buildings.

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The Mendocino Complex fire, on the other hand, has mostly burned forested land and only destroyed about 140 structures. But it is moving fast, fed by extreme heat and hazardous winds scouring the brittle dry land. It was only 30 percent contained by Monday night, according to Cal Fire.

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The Mendocino Complex fireactually a combination of the Ranch and River fires that broke out within an hour of each other and just a few miles apart and considered a single fire by officialsis one of a dozen wildfires across the state. The most dangerous in recent days has been the Carr fire in Redding, which destroyed more than 1,000 homes and caused the deaths of seven people. The fire is beginning to slow, however, and was at nearly 50 percent contained Monday night, according to Cal Fire. Some 14,000 firefighters are battling fires around the state, according to the Los Angeles Times, and smoke and triple-digit temperatures are plaguing large sections of the state.

The past year has been a devastating one for California, as thousands of homes were destroyed and more than 40 people killed in wine country in October. The Thomas fire broke out not too long after and was followed in late June by the most recent outbreak of wildfires. Four of the five largest wildfires in Californias modern history have occurred since 2012, according to the Times. It is still the middle of fire season, and the worst fires often break out later in the year.
As Paul Manaforts trial for bank and tax fraud entered its second week in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia, the intensity ratcheted up significantly Monday afternoon when the prosecution called former Manafort business partner Rick Gates to testify. Gates, like Manafort, was charged with federal crimes for his overseas work with the former Trump campaign chairman, but after initially professing his innocence agreed to a plea deal with Robert Muellers team in February. As part of the deal, Gates agreed to plead guilty to two felony charges and to cooperate with the special counsel investigation. Gates plea dealfor which he could face six years in prison or none at all, depending on the value of his help to prosecutorstransformed the former Trump aide from potential target into star witness in the Manafort trial.

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During his testimony Monday, Gates gave damning testimony against his former boss, as well incriminating as himself, admitting to stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort in addition to knowingly committing crimes at Manaforts direction.

From the New York Times:

Asked by prosecutors whether he was involved in any criminal activity with Mr. Manafort, Mr. Gates responded, Yes. Mr. Gates also testified that he and Mr. Manafort held 15 foreign bank accounts that were not disclosed to the federal government. Mr. Gates said the required financial filings were not submitted at Mr. Manaforts direction. Mr. Gates admitted to a wide variety of crimes, including bank fraud, tax fraud, money laundering, lying to federal authorities, lying in a court deposition and stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from Mr. Manaforts accounts by falsely claiming expenses.

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Gates is one of 35 potential witnesses for the prosecution, but his links not only to Manafort but the Trump campaign make him potentially dangerous for the administration. Gates was the deputy chairman of the Trump campaign under Manafort and stayed on even after Manaforts ouster, serving as campaign liaison to the Republican National Committee. Gates then helped raise vast sums of money for the Trump inauguration as the deputy chair of the inaugural campaign. Manaforts defense team is expected to counter Gates claims that Manafort was a co-conspirator in a vast financial conspiracy by showing that Manafort was largely duped by Gates, who stole from Manafort, kept crucial information from him, and was the instigator of the political consulting firms financial misdealing.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions hit back at a federal judges decision ordering the Trump administration reinstate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. D.C.-based U.S. District Judge John Bates ruled Friday that the government must restart the program aimed at providing deportation protection for undocumented immigrants that were brought to the U.S. as small children, known as Dreamers, by Aug. 23. Sessions responded to the decision Monday, declaring the court ruling improper and one of a number of decisions in which courts have improperly used judicial power to steer, enjoin, modify, and direct executive policy.

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Bates decision comes after the Trump administration decided to wind down the Obama-era program in September 2017, but after multiple legal challenges, the court ruled in April that the Trump administrations decision to rescind DACA was unlawful, largely because it was considered arbitrary. Bates, a George W. Bush nominee, gave the Trump administration 90 days to remedy the decisions inadequacies, but a memo from Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen failed to convince the judge. Although the Nielsen Memo purports to offer further explanation for DHSs decision to rescind DACA, it fails to elaborate meaningfully on the agencys primary rationale for its decision: the judgment that the policy was unlawful and unconstitutional, Bates wrote in his decision Friday. And while the memo offers several additional policy grounds for DACAs rescission, most of these simply repackage legal arguments previously made, and hence are insufficiently independent from the agencys evaluation of DACAs legality to preclude judicial review or to support the agencys decision.

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The last administration violated its duty to enforce our immigration laws by directing and implementing a categorical, multipronged non-enforcement immigration policy for a massive group of illegal aliens, Sessions said Monday, adding the White House had simply reestablished the legal policies consistent with the law. Bates has not ruled out that the administration could plausibly end DACA legally but that it had to provide a rational explanation for its decision to do so. The Trump administrations approach to ending the program simply will not do, Bates wrote, because it is based on a conclusory assertion that a prior policy is illegal, accompanied by a hodgepodge of illogical or post hoc policy assertions.

The executive branchs authority to simply rescind a policy, established only by a letter from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, is clearly established, Sessions said. The Department of Justice will take every lawful measure to vindicate the Department of Homeland Securitys lawful rescission of DACA.
A police interrogation transcript released on Monday contains not only Nikolas Cruzs confession to carrying out the shooting at a Parkland, Florida, high school but also remarks that reveal his state of mind before, during, and after the attack. Police interrogated Cruz hours after the Feb. 14 massacre at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School that left 17 people dead and 17 wounded, and fueled the national debate about gun control.

Cruz told Broward County Sheriffs Office detective John Curcio during his 12-hour interrogation that a demon voice in his head told him to Burn. Kill. Destroy. The voice, he claimed, directed him to buy the AR-15 used in the massacre and to take an Uber to the school. He also told Curcio that, before the Parkland shooting, he had planned to open fire on people at a park and had experienced a previous run-in with police for shooting animals. He told police he had made two past attempts on his own life, one with Ibuprofen and one with alcohol.*

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Several pages of the transcript have been redacted. At varying points during the interview, Cruz talked to himself, contradicted his own statements, and requested a psychologist.

He became defensive when Curcio expressed doubt about the voice in his head. Personally, I think youre using the demon as an excuse, the police detective said. You could have stopped the demon any time you want. You didnt want to stop the demon  I think you like the demon.

After disputing that claim, Cruz asked for an attorney.

When Curcio left the room for a moment, Cruz said, I want to die.

Cruzs brother Zachary was brought into the room later in the interview, saying, People think youre a monster now.  Why did you do this?

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Im sorry, dude, Cruz replied. Much of that conversation has been redacted.

On the day of the shooting, Cruz was arrested in a neighborhood near the school. The Washington Post reported that Cruz had escaped the campus virtually unnoticed during the chaos that ensued.

A court-ordered report, which was released on Friday and published unredacted by the Sun-Sentinel, revealed that Cruz had asked the Broward County school district for special counseling assistance months before the shooting, but the district did not follow through.

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Cruz has been charged with 17 counts of murder in the first degree and 17 counts of attempted murder. His defense attorneys are looking to strike a plea deal, in which Cruz would plead guilty in exchange for life in prison without parole. Prosecutors have said they will seek the death penalty.

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He is the most damaged and broken human being I have encountered in 40 years doing this type of work, Broward County public defender Howard Finkelstein told the Washington Post in an email.

The transcript adds to a litany of evidence previously released by law enforcement, as The Washington Post points out, including footage of police responding to the crime scene, some 911 calls from the attack, and video footage of Cruz announcing his plans to become a professional school shooter and bragging about how it would make him famous.

The release of the transcript and a video of the interrogation was ordered by a Florida judge last month. It comes just a week before the start of the new school year at Stoneman Douglas.
Last weekend, the Washington Post reported that an angry President Trump is increasingly concerned about exposure that his son Donald Jr. may face in the Mueller investigation. In apparent response, the president tweeted that he wasnt concerned and that the infamous Trump Tower meetinggenerally assumed to be the primary source of any legal troubles Donald Jr. faceswas meant to get information on an opponent. This admission of the purpose of the meeting, after an initial furious denial, raised further questions about the presidents honesty, and his own potential legal troubles. Meanwhile, one of the presidents lawyers, Rudy Giuliani, says that his team is continuing to hash out the details of an interview with the special counsels officea process that has been going on for quite some time, and that could result in either an interview or a subpoena.

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To talk about what all this means, I spoke by phone with Asha Rangappa, a former FBI agent and a lecturer at Yales Jackson Institute for Global Affairs. During the course of our conversation, which has been edited and condensed for clarity, we discussed how much danger Donald Jr. might be in, whether Trumps tweets could really cause him legal problems, and why Robert Mueller might be happy to spend a seemingly endless amount of time trying to agree on interview conditions with the president.

Isaac Chotiner: When youre looking at a case where someones story keeps changing in the way that Donald Trumps has about the Trump Tower meeting, how much does that matter if, when theyre under oath, or when theyre speaking to federal agents, theyre telling the truth?

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Asha Rangappa: The point of getting an interview is that it then becomes their account of record, in the sense that thats the account thats going to count. Even if its not under oath, if he has an interview with Mueller, hes still liable for false statement charges if he lies. Hes locked in. I think thats the key. If the version he gives Mueller is in fact the truthful one, then there should be no problem. He can still go out and lie to the public, but presumably the truthful version will come out at some point and then there are political costs for having lied to the public.

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Right, but I have also read that his lawyers are telling him to stop tweeting because its bad for him. Are they just talking about its bad publicly, because he may have to reverse course when he talks to Mueller, or do you think they are making some larger point about his credibility that could have legal ramifications?

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Its bad for him in the sense that it still can be used as evidence. Are we talking about the Trump Tower meeting or are we talking about obstruction?

Either one.

The tweeting is worse in my opinion on the obstruction case because the obstruction case centers on his state of mind. Everything he tweets that goes to him wanting the Russia investigation to go away, thats subjective intent, its helpful to Mueller, even if its just his opinion. On the Trump Tower piece, if hes tweeting out things that he is later going to come totally clean with Mueller on, then I dont think the tweets are as problematic because theyre not evidentiary in the same way.

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So, in a case like the obstruction case, where it might be the presidents word against Comeys, how much would a prosecutor examine someones general record for honesty? How much is someones record of public honesty separate from having maybe talked honestly to federal agents?

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In some ways, the longer [the interview] is prolonged, the more Trump starts going crazy and tweets stuff that helps Muellers case.  Asha Rangappa

Typically these things would be presented in a court of law, right? In a traditional case, a persons credibility would be a question for the jury. If you were to put someone on the stand, Comeys lawyer would have him introduce himself as the director of the FBI, and hes sworn in so many cases in front of a federal court on these issues, you know on whatever. In other words, he has a history of putting things under oath and doesnt have a history of lying.

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Then, if Donald Trump was going to be a witness, what you would have is a lawyer impeaching him, meaning like cross-examining him to show a pattern of making misstatements. Isnt it true that the Washington Post says that you lie approximately four times a day? Bringing up his inauguration claims and all of that stuff to show the jury that this is a person who has a pattern of dishonesty. If its a he said, she said, it would ultimately be up to the jury to decide who am I going to believe.

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But what if youre submitting a report to Rod Rosenstein whos going to submit it to Congress and there is no jury?

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Exactly. Thats why this is different. The jury here is the Senate, ultimately. If the House can decide to bring articles of impeachment, ultimately the people who would be voting on it is the Senate. Ultimately, it is a political process.

I guess my answer to you is the question of credibility and a persons reputation for honesty would normally be relevant in a legal setting, to be evaluated by a jury, but were completely out of this context. This is why theyre also using the court of public opinion to make their case because that is ultimately whats going to be most influential on the members of Congress, on what they think.

One more thing about Don Jr.: You hear people say that the way to judge his vulnerability is if he hasnt spoken to Robert Muelleras in, thats a sign that hes a target of the investigation. How reliable is that as a gauge of these things?

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If youre definitely someone who would be of interest to the things that Mueller is investigating, and the Trump Tower meeting is one of them, then I think it is a fair assessment. I mean, if Mueller is looking at Russias approaches to the campaign, and that meeting is one where there were at least two people connected to the Kremlin, and he still hasnt interviewed all of the principal players, then it may be that hes first gathering a lot of information from other sources, which then allows them  Theyre going to save the people who are closer to potentially becoming a target for last, because they want to gather everything else they know. They want to have a timeline. They want to know what everyone else said, and then they can present their questions in a way that forces Don Jr., or anybody else, to give their version kind of knowing that if they screw up or tell a falsehood, the opposite side probably knows.

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It seems that there have been endless negotiations between Muellers team and Trumps team about setting a date for an interview and its conditions. Why do you think Mueller seems to be willing to kick the can down the road and proceed with this very drawn-out process, which God knows how long it will take, as opposed to saying, No, were setting the conditions, and if you dont agree were going to subpoena you?

I think a couple of things. First, there is an election coming up, and I think that he doesnt want to escalate things that might make it look as though he is doing it for political reasons right before an election. That could be one reason. The other reason is that maybe it actually gives Mueller more time to do other parts of.  In other words, maybe its not actually a loss for Mueller at this stage to not have to get this done immediately. In some ways, the longer that its prolonged, the more Trump starts going crazy and tweets stuff that helps Muellers case.

Or he doesnt move to shut down the investigation because theyre, you know, still negotiating.

That was going to be my third comment. Its like in a hostage negotiation. If you keep the guy talking, hes probably not going to shoot. Thats why hostage negotiators keep talking to the person and keep them engaged because that makes them less likely to become trigger happy. In that way, continuing the negotiations in a way placates Trump and, perhaps, again, bides Mueller time to continue other parts of the investigation that he wants to finish.
Monday was a bad day to be the internets most famous conspiracy theorist. After Alex Jones Infowars got the boot from Apples Podcasts app Sunday evening when the company removed five of the six Infowars podcasts from the platform, Spotify followed suit and removed the Alex Jones Show from its podcast channel, too. From there the purge broadened: Facebook moved to unpublish four Infowars pagesnot just individual posts, as it had previously donesaying that they had violated its community standards. Then the Google-owned YouTube banned the Alex Jones Channel, which counted 2.4 million followers at the time. Now one of the few major social media platforms that hasnt kicked out Jones and his Infowars clan is Twitter. No surprise, Jones was all over the social network Monday, shouting about censorship and globalists, while the Infowars website attempted to rally his supporters, declaring that The war on your mind is happening right now.

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War or not, Alex Jones fans still have plenty of options to get their fix of right-fringe conspiracy-laden news: Beyond Infowars website, theres the organizations mobile app, which is still currently available for download in Apples App Store and Googles Play Store. Slate first reported Monday morning that the Infowars app was still up in the Apple App Store despite the Apple podcast removal. At that time, the app ranked No. 56 in the App Store among news apps. By Monday evening, following the removals from Facebook and YouTube, Jones app had climbed to No. 7. Though Apple might merit credit for giving the other platforms some cover to take more serious action against Jones, who has been using the sites to disseminate frequently harmful false stories for years, the fact that Infowars continues to have an app on Apples App Store is glaring. For what its worth, Infowars still has a presence on LinkedIn and Instagram, too. But Mondays banningsand Jones response to themraise a new question: Will the platforms actions diminish the reach of Jones conspiracy theories? (The more infamous of them include the false assertions that the Sandy Hook massacre was a hoax and that the survivors of the Parkland, Florida, shooting are crisis actors.) Or will Jones be able to use the bans to paint himself as a free-speech martyr, further cementing his audiences devotion?

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While the dam broke on Monday, the floodwaters have been rising around Infowars for a few weeks, ever since Facebook officials struggled on a call with journalists to explain why it hadnt found the organization to have violated its rules. Last week, however, Facebook removed a handful of videos from Alex Jones channels and banned him from administering his pages for a month as punishment for violating its community standards. YouTube also took down four of Jones videos and banned him from live-broadcasting for 90 days.

And after those initial suspensions were issued, Jones began to post articles imploring Patriots to Spread the Word About Big Techs Murder of Free Speech, as one of the headlines read last week. In this narrative, Jones was the victim and Facebook was the enemy, going so far as to argue that the platforms alleged censorship of conservative voices is the reason why the social networks stock took a historic dip on Thursday after its earnings calls.

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Now that Facebook and YouTube have taken more decisive action, Jones is again sounding the censorship refrain. On Monday, he took the argument a step further, though, making a plea to President Donald Trump that we need an Internet Bill of Rights and antitrust busting on these companies if they dont back off right now. Jones was basically making the case that with all the major platforms deciding that using their services to peddle his dangerous conspiracy theories and hate speech was no longer going to fly, he has nowhere else to go, and that is an antitrust problem.

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The logic is that if there were more popular social media companies and all the control of the major platforms didnt fall in the hands of only a few companiesnamely Google, Facebook, and Applehe wouldnt be in such dire straits right now. And he does have a point: When only a few companies control all the major social media platforms and they all decide to ban the same person, that person is effectively censored from the mainstream internet. Its hard to say thats the case with Jones as of now. You can still find him through Google and other search engines, not to mention Twitter. But its also true that it wouldnt take too many more companies to take action for Jones to be muzzled.

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This is a problem, but not in the way Jones thinks. The concentration of ownership of internet platforms in the hands of only a small number of companies makes it easy for someone like Jones to cry that hes being censored and his free speech rights are being infringed by a cabal of left-wing internet companies. In a way, the tech companies all deciding to do the right thing at the same time makes the entire tech industry an easy target for the vitriol of the fringe right.

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One of the great ironies in this mess is that YouTube, Facebook, and Apple are all deciding to enforce community moderation policies against hate speech that theyve long had on their books. Any one of them could have taken this action years ago. But they didnt, perhaps fearing that theyd be labeled as censorious liberals executing a political agenda, as if theres anything particularly partisan about preventing a popular and bigoted fabulist from using your services to spread lies that are leading to real-world harm. They helped Jones exit the fringe and penetrate the mainstream. Now their fear could be realizedtheyre being labeled as left-wing tech companies acting out a political agenda by right-wing media critics.

At least the tech companies are in it together. And, of course, Jones fans arent at a total loss: Their favorite broadcaster spent the day posting videos on Twitter, collecting likes and retweets by the thousands.
Less than a month ago, Facebook was righteously defending the presence on its platform of Alex Jones, the cruel conspiracy-monger behind Infowars. Banning pages such as his would be contrary to the basic principles of free speech, the company tweeted on July 12.

On Monday, Facebook changed its mind. It announced in a blog post that it had taken down four of Jones Facebook pages. We believe in giving people a voice, but we also want everyone using Facebook to feel safe, the company explained in a blog post.

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What changed? Not Facebooks policies on hate speech, bullying, or graphic violence, which the company says Jones violated. And not Jones, whos been doing essentially the same nasty shtick for years.

No, what changed was Facebooks interpretation of the policiesan interpretation that appears to have been driven in large part by public perception. In short, Facebooks reversal has the whiff of a PR move. And maybe, in a weird way, thats OK.

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In a remarkable coincidence (or not), Facebooks action on Jones came the morning after Apple took down his podcast (and other Infowars podcasts), and the same morning that Spotify did the same. YouTube quickly followed suit, booting the Alex Jones Channel. Things got so bad for Jones by midday Monday that media platforms were practically racing to take down his content before the news cycle moved on. Even YouPorn banned him.

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By Tuesday, Twitter was one of the last major platforms where he still had a presence.

The cascade of crackdowns suggests one of two things. Either Jones was in violation of media platforms policies all along, and they never noticed until now; or the platforms moved the goal posts. Neither reflects particularly well on the platforms in terms of the consistency, objectivity, or fairness of their enforcement. Nor does it help that they all seemed to be waiting for one another to make the first move. Thats cowardly.

Jones is already using the crackdown as political fodder, imploring Donald Trump to scrutinize the tech companies censorship and threaten them with anti-trust busting if they dont back off. Theres an argument to be made that banning Jones plays into his hands, and those of conservative politicians such as Sen. Ted Cruz who accuse social media firms of liberal bias. On the other hand, as my Slate colleague April Glaser points out, the big tech platforms dominance is such that Jones is running out of options.

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By Tuesday, Twitter was one of the last major platforms where he still had a presence. Twitter executive Vijaya Gadde recently explained the companys stance in an interview on Slates If Then podcast, and a spokesman said Monday that it hasnt changed. But it wouldnt be a shock to see Twitter also ban Jones, sooner or later.

Infowars banishment was greeted by decent folk across the political spectrum with sighs of finally. For Facebook and the other big tech companies, it must come as something of a relief to no longer have to defend the kind of man who attacks the survivors of school shootings. Now that theyve finally made the obvious right call, we can all move on, right?

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Not so fast. Jones wont go gently into obscurity, and if the likes of Cruz and Trump take up his cause, the fight could get even uglier than it was before. The platforms flip-flopping will leave them vulnerable to charges that their policies are arbitrary and their enforcement inconsistent. The veneer of objectivity has cracked.

Right-wing groups will mount pressure campaigns to get them to ban liberal personalities, in the spirit of the recent campaigns against Guardians of the Galaxy director James Gunn and newly hired New York Times editorial board member Sarah Jeong. Gunn was fired by Disney; Jeong apologized and the Times stuck by her. We can expect similar inconsistencies from the tech platforms as they muddle their way through one controversy after the next.

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That sounds bad, and it probably will be. But the reality is that the platforms dont have it all figured out, and never did. They have objective-sounding policies and some processes in place, sure. But deciding who can and cannot speak on social media is not an easy question, and it cant be answered without difficult trade-offs. Sooner or later, controversies like this one over Jones were inevitable.

The silver lining behind the fracas is that Facebook, Google, and others are finally being forced to reckon with just how hard these questions are. Making decisions based on public pressure isnt a great look, but its better for giant corporations to be responsive to public pressure than for them to be immune to it. Sometimes that will mean that they make cowardly choices that hurt people unfairly. Other times, it will mean that they realize their policies were flawed and improve them.

Its a messy process, this taking of responsibility for the content on social media platforms. But its a necessary one. And it has only just begun.
The Wall Street Journal reported on Monday that Facebook has been asking Wells Fargo, Citigroup, JP Morgan Chase, and other major banks for their customers financial data, including account balances and credit card transactions, in order to provide new tools to its users.

The Journal reported that the social media company had approached the banks with proposals to integrate fraud alerts, account balance notifications, and other features into Messenger, which would then encourage users to spend more time on the app. Facebook told the Journal in the piece that it doesnt use purchase data from banks or credit card companies for ads and that it doesnt have special relationships, partnerships, or contracts with banks or credit-card companies to use their customers purchase data for ads.

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Though Facebooks stock rose after the news broke, the piece caused a minor stir on Twitter. The company, which has been warding off criticisms about its data privacy practices, decided to issue further comments pushing back against the Journal. Facebook told CNN, A recent Wall Street Journal story implies incorrectly that we are actively asking financial services companies for financial transaction datathis is not true. Like many online companies with commerce businesses, we partner with banks and credit card companies to offer services like customer chat or account management.

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Facebooks statement doesnt appear to bring to light any new information or clarify anything that wasnt already in the article. Its not clear what the distinction would be between actively asking and passively asking, or what exactly the company thinks the Journals report implies. Facebook seems to be making the point that the data will only be used to enable Messenger tools and not for advertising, though this was already addressed in the Journals piece. Facebook added that the tools are opt-in, though this fact was also in the article.

The Journal reported that financial executives are worried about the scope of the information that Facebook is requesting, and that one large bank dropped out of the talks due to privacy concerns. Banks may also hesitate to hand over data because they want to keep customers on their own platforms, instead of third-party ones like Facebook. For example, a group of major banks including Citibank and Wells Fargo have been connecting their apps to a payment service called Zelle in order to compete with Venmo.
It all makes sense once you realize they want to kill us, by Mike Whitney - The Unz Review : 'It is now apparent that these products in ...
Wizz Air to launch new route from Bratislava

The low-cost airliner will connect the Slovak capital with Ukraines city of Lviv.

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Hungarian low-cost airline Wizz Air will launch a new regular route from Bratislavas M.R. Stefanik Airport to the Ukrainian city of Lviv as of October 30, the TASR newswire wrote on August 6.

The flights will take place three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Wizz Air is launching a second route from Bratislava to Ukraine, as at the moment it is operating four flights a week to and from Ukraines capital of Kiev, said airport spokesperson Veronika Sevcikova, adding that the company also provides flights from Bratislava to Skopje (Macedonia), Sofia (Bulgaria), Warsaw (Poland) and to London-Luton.

Wizz Air launched its Bratislava flights in 2016, and over the last two years we have transported more than 415,000 passengers, said Andras Rado of Wizz Air.

7. Aug 2018 at 12:29 | Compiled by Spectator staff
Annual summer school for Slovak language has opened

For the 54th time, the summer course will teach Slovak to foreigners and expats; this edition focuses on some key years ending with an eight.

The 54th year of Studia Academica Slovaca, a summer school of Slovak language and culture, due to accommodate 156 foreign students from 33 countries, ceremonially opened at Comenius University in Bratislava on August 6.

In her opening speech, Studia Academica Slovaca director Jana Pekarovicova mentioned  as quoted by the TASR newswire  that the central theme of this years summer school will be the reflection of the historic milestones of the 20th century in Slovak language, literature, culture and society in general, with a special focus on some of the key years ending with an eight.

Anniversaries and personages reflected

We want to commemorate the anniversaries of significant events and personages in the Slovak and Czecho-Slovak contexts, mainly the centenary of the Czechoslovak Republic and the 50th anniversary of the occupation of then Czechoslovakia in August 1968, Pekarovicova said.

The students of the three-week programme include university teachers from abroad, translators and managers, with some of them claiming that they were motivated to apply due to family reasons or their Slovak roots. Most students are 20-30-years old.

We dont have many age differences now, Pekarovicova said. The oldest participant is 71, we know her well  shes a teacher from INALCO in Paris, which also has a Slovak lector. Her son married in Slovakia, so thats why shes learning Slovak.

7. Aug 2018 at 12:34 | Compiled by Spectator staff
Silence finally? The owner of the opera house in Sturovo detained

The woman whose case has been made into a theatre play was charged with ignoring the Supreme Courts ruling and dangerous threats and brought into pre-trial custody.

A woman in the southern Slovak town of Sturovo tortured her neighbours by playing a single Verdi opera loudly every day between 6:00 and 22:00. This happened for almost 16 years, until the police came to arrest her, the Sme daily wrote on August 7.

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The house with amplifiers, which played La Traviata as sung by Placido Domingo, includes a steel network for protection, rolled-down blinds, spotlights and cameras, and allegedly for night vision, the daily wrote, citing TV Markizas website.

The woman started to play the opera as revenge, as she had vainly complained about a barking dog next door. (In the meantime, the dog has probably died.)

Charged with making threats

The owner of the house did not even respect the Supreme Courts effective order that banned her from playing the music, TV Markiza wrote, adding that police came to arrest her. The investigator also charged her with dangerous threats and proposed pre-trial custody.

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Now, the owner of the opera house is awaiting the decision of a judge in a prison cell  whether she will be released, or remain in custody. She faces a prison sentence between six months and three years, the TASR newswire wrote.

Noise from early morning till late evening

The re-playing of the aria on Kossuthova Street in Sturovo was accompanied by unbearable whistling  catcalls. The four-minute piece was played again and again between 6:00 and 22:00.

How the case developed

In June 2015, the mayor of Sturovo issued a preliminary injunction in which he banned the harassing of citizens by playing recorded music, TASR wrote. For the next two years and three months, the opera house and the street went quiet. The woman, identified as Eva N., contested the preliminary injunction through a court complaint. The district court confirmed the mayors order, as did the regional court. It was still not valid, however, as Eva N. appealed against the courts decisions. Last September, La Traviata thus resounded again across Kossuthova Street.

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In March 2018, the Supreme Court confirmed the preliminary injunction issued by the town in 2015, which bans the harassing of citizens by playing recorded music, according to TASR.

The whole street is suffering, Sme wrote, quoting TV Markiza, adding that noise is one of the gravest factors in creating stress.

The aria from La Traviata by Giuseppe Verdi, based on a novel by Alexander Dumas, is very popular.

7. Aug 2018 at 12:47 | Compiled by Spectator staff
Hungarian oligarchs expand to Slovakia

Hungarian firms investigated by EUs anti-fraud office try to do business in Slovakia.

Municipalities launched a tender for public lighting but their award conditions were so demanding that in the end one specific firm won almost everything. This fraud scheme that occurred years ago in Hungary has entered Slovakia as Hungarian oligarchs expand their business here.

It is a system of organized fraud created by firms around Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's son-in-law Istvan Tiborcz, according to the leaked report of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF).

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Tiborcz's company, Elios, made such a profit on dubious public tenders in Hungary that it was able to expand its business abroad.

The Slovak Spectator and the SME daily found four firms personally and financially connected to Hungarian firms participating in alleged scams in Hungary. Some of those firms use similar practices to win Slovak tenders for public lighting as their Hungarian parent companies.

It is not an accident that OLAF uses the term criminal group in its report, wrote Hungarian journalist Ildiko Kovacs who has copy of the OLAF report and wrote about it for the news website 24.hu.

Orban and public lighting

Elios won its first three public tenders in 2009 a year before Orban came to power the second time. The company later vastly used its know-how in tenders from 2012 to 2014. At that time, municipalities were purchasing modern LED lights from Eurofunds, seeking more efficient lights that would also save money on energy.

During this period, the company won 39 tenders for the modernization of lighting in various municipalities. Investigative reporters from the direkt36.hu news website published a large report in 2015 showing that Elios lights are overpriced by hundreds of euros compared to the same lights directly from the vendor.

Other revelations arose. Elios's net profit was about 14 percent of the total amount of the contracts on average while its competitors earned only five percent on average in other public tenders. Therefore they were trying to find out how such an expensive company won in dozens of tenders.

It turned out that Elios was, in many cases, the only firm able to meet the strict criteria and sometimes it was the only company involved in the tender.

OLAF started to deal with Elios in 2014 and found that at least in 17 cases, Elios had directly organized fraud for procurement. OLAF subsequently recommended the Hungarian authorities to initiate criminal proceedings, which are still ongoing.

Some municipalities later even complained that the new Elios lighting was poor and turned out worse than the previous ones.

After all those discoveries, Orban's son-in-law Tiborcz, withdrew and sold his share of Elios to his business partner and friend from secondary school, Endre Hamar, in 2015. After a number of scandals in its home country, the company started searching for new markets abroad at that time. Apart from Slovakia, Elios's daughter companies with similar names also appear in Serbia.

Hungarian business in Slovakia

In Slovakia, Elios took advantage of the situation when then Minister of Economy, Pavol Pavlis of Smer, announced the call for the modernization of public lighting for municipalities in March 2015.

In its public release the ministry cited the long-term need and the great interest of municipalities in the modernization of public lighting systems.

Elios founded a branch with the name Elios Slovakia in 2015. The Slovak company was led by Marian Jelinek in the first months and later was replaced by businessman Marian Dostal.

One of the original co-owners of the Slovak Elios is another Slovak company, E-E-E LED Lighting, established a year earlier. This company is owned by the Slovaks Marian Dostal (31%), Gabriel Stanko (48%) and the Hungarian firm U Light (21%).

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In the past Hungarian media suspected that U Light was Elios' fictitious competitor because this firm regularly appeared in the same tenders and mostly offered only a slightly higher price than Elios.

Another of these Hungarian companies close to Elios is Grep. It appeared to be both an opponent in some competitions and sometimes as a partner of Elios. The company also created a Slovak clone called Grep Slovakia in 2013 by renaming the company Vektor, based in Komarno, southwestern Slovakia.

The last company personally linked to Elios is Infralux. Infralux competed and won public lighting tenders in seven villages near Banska Bystrica. Those two companies are linked by Marina Jelinek.

In 2011, he became board chairman of the Spectrum Family and supervised the process of this company, founding its subsidiary Infralux in 2015. Like in the case of Elios Slovakia, Jelinek later withdrew from Infralux.

Jelinek has not responded to phone calls or SMSs.

How they earned money

In the case of Infralux, the municipalities of Kozelnik, Cerin, Sebedin-Becov, Poniky, Hrochot, Stiavnicke Bane and Badan near Banska Bystrica launched a public lighting tender in September 2015 and kicked the lowest bidding companies out until Infralux won.

Like Elios in Hungary, they additionally requested technical specifications for bulbs and their samples, and for failure to comply with the requirements they excluded the competing firms Progres HL and Alfex, which had been doing business in lighting for many years.

On the other hand, all the municipalities chose Infralux, founded only a month before they launched the tender. In addition to fines from the Public Procurement Office (UVO), NAKA began to review municipalities for machinations with euro-funds earlier this year.

The Slovak Spectator approached the mayors of all seven municipalities and they denied allegations of fraud. Some of them sued the state for fines imposed by UVO.

What is not suspicious these days? Hrochot Mayor, Marian Mazuch, told The Slovak Spectator. I dont care about such things, I just needed lighting.

At present, Infralux belongs to Dusan Kollar, who was a close associate and friend of the deceased Alexander Rezes and Jozef Majsky, facing trial for fraud in the non-banking companies Horizont and BMG.

Grep Slovakia won another two public lighting tenders. The first was organized by the village of Jelka for nearly 240,000 in 2014. Only the Czech company Eltodo, which has been doing business since 1991, competed with Grep but failed to meet Jelkas criteria.

Jelka, for example, wanted the candidates to guarantee at least ten years of aftermarket warranty directly from the lighting manufacturer. UVO criticized the fined seven municipalities near Banska Bystrica for the same condition.

The requirement for a ten-year warranty granted exclusively by the manufacturer is an unreasonable requirement that severely restricts competition and such a formulated requirement was not necessary, reads the UVOs decision in the case of Hrochot.

Jelkas Mayor, Imre Farkas, responded that he did not know Greps background and is pleased with the lighting. He promised to answer other questions by e-mail but has not sent it.

The second contract for 58,600 was won by Grep in 2014 in Buc. As no one else submitted a bid the company competed with itself. Bucs Mayor, Jan Karko, was on vacation and could not answer any questions.

Four companies connected to Elios, namely E-E LED Lighting, Grep Slovakia, Elios Slovakia and Infralux, are still active and, with the exception of Infralux, they are increasing sales and profits.

7. Aug 2018 at 12:57 | Roman Cuprik
Stories of migrants who returned home are all connected through shared experience and their desire to share the knowledge they have gained abroad with the country that gave them life.

Zuzana Palovic, a well-travelled author and researcher, has lived in nine countries across four continents. Although she has spent most of her life outside of Slovakia, her strong connection to her homeland only strengthened overtime and after years of immersing herself in cultures entirely different from her own, she decided to return.

Palovic was born in Slovakia, behind the Iron Curtain. At the age of four, she joined her family in their pursuit of freedom and crossed the curtain, seeking temporary refuge in Austria before moving further west. Suddenly, Palovic found herself in a foreign land where people did not speak her language and her parents were political refugees rather than respected citizens.

For the first nine months, Palovic and her family lived in various shelters and friends houses, careful to avoid the attention of authorities. Most Austrians were kind and sympathetic towards the foreign family, allowing Palovic to quickly adapt to Austrian culture. She learned German in school and was lucky to receive support and encouragement from fellow classmates and other Czech and Slovak families living in exile.

However, Palovics life would completely change once again after the family decided to move to Vancouver, Canada. The road towards adaptation, understanding, and acceptance contained more bumps and obstacles this time around; Palovic would have to learn another new language, this time English, and navigate an entirely different education system among students who looked and sounded nothing like her.

Her Life's Work

However, Palovics direct exposure to the challenges of migration early on did not deter the young wanderer from exploring the rest of the world and delving deeper into the topic of migration.

Before her great return, Palovic studied international migration for seven years, focusing on those who return to their countries of origin and fulfill the migration cycle. She received a Masters degree in the Netherlands followed by a PhD in the United Kingdom, where her knowledge of migration was enriched by both migration experts and the personal testimonies of fellow migrants.

A migrant herself, Palovic was motivated to learn more about one of the worlds biggest phenomenons to gain a better understanding of her own experience and empower other migrants and returnees.

video //www.youtube.com/embed/JwqfkpYRsEI

In The Great Return, Palovic highlights the stories of several Slovak migrants who describe what it was like returning to Slovakia after living and working abroad. From a documentary filmmaker who found her voice in Spain to an inventor who learned how to soar, no two stories are the same, but Palovic believes they are all connected through shared experience and their desire to share the knowledge they have gained abroad with the country that gave them life.

Her blog series will focus on the stories of these great returnees because, as Palovic concludes: its time to let them shine on a global stage  the sleeping giants have risen.

7. Aug 2018 at 15:44 | Anna Fay
Abduction: Kalinak took a polygraph test

The Interior Minister plans to meet the German ambassador to reassure him her ministry will cooperate.

Robert Kalinak and the Interior Ministry that he had led until this March continue refusing the allegations of their active involvement in the abduction of the Vietnamese citizen Trinh Xuan Thanh in Germany and his subsequent transfer to Vietnam via Bratislava.

Kalinak came forward with the results of a polygraph test that he took privately to convince his opponents and voters that he is telling the truth when he says that he was not aware of the abduction. Slovak legislation and criminal prosecution bodies do not recognise polygraph tests as reliable and valid evidence.

Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry announced they were ready to strip 14 persons of secrecy.

Kalinak argues with polygraph test

Deputy chairman of the ruling Smer and MP Robert Kalinak convened a press conference on the afternoon of August 7 to make a fundamental statement regarding the abduction. This came as another one in the string of his reactions to the articles published by the Dennik N daily.

Based on the report of the German investigators and the testimonies of several Slovak police officers who say they witnessed the abduction in Bratislava, the daily alleged that the official visit of the Vietnamese interior minister with entourage in Slovakia in July 2017 turned into a kidnapping when Vietnamese secret service agents boarded the Slovak government plane along with the beaten and intoxicated Trinh Xuan Thanh, who was kidnapped in Berlin a few days before.

Kalinak has been denying any knowledge of an abduction during the visit of the delegation that he personally met at the Hotel Borik in Bratislava before they flew out of the country. To prove he was telling the truth, he took a polygraph test, answering four questions related to the case.

Questions that Robert Kalinak answered at his polygraph test - Did you know about the abduction of a Vietnamese citizen in Germany during the visit of the Vietnamese interior minister to Slovakia? - Did you help organise the abduction of the Vietnamese citizen? - Did you order the staff of the Interior Ministry to help organise the abduction of a Vietnamese citizen? - Were you aware that an intoxicated and beaten Vietnamese citizen was transferred to a car within the procession of the delegation of the Vietnamese minister?

Kalinak answered all the questions in the negative and the polygraph evaluated them as true answers.

Kalinak only lied in two cases, based on the polygraph results that he presented to the press: When asked whether he was worried there could be a mistake in the test, he said he wasnt and when asked whether he had ever done anything bad to anyone, he said no.

Kalinak took the test at a private polygraph expert, the same that opposition MP Igor Matovic visited during one of his disputes with former prime minister Robert Fico. He said he avoided the polygraph at the police and at the National Security Office in order to prevent his critics from claiming that the results might have been manipulated.

The former minister called on Dennik N to prove their claims in a similar way he proved his.

Police officers will be allowed to testify

Meanwhile, the Interior Ministry stated that on August 8, Minister Denisa Sakova would strip of secrecy 14 people who might be able to provide relevant information in the case.

Read also:

Read also: Abduction: President says he does not trust the interior minister Read more

It is not clear who the people are and whether they are the same people that Dennik N quoted in its report about the abduction. The ministry stated they would make no comments on the case as it is currently being investigated by criminal prosecution bodies in Slovakia.

The process only started on Friday, August 3, when a Dennik N reporter was heard by the General Prosecutors Office. General Prosecutor Jaroslav Ciznar on Monday, August 6, informed that the case would be handled by the Bratislava Regional Prosecutors Office and by the police inspection of the Interior Ministry.

Slovak officials meet German ambassador

Interior Minister Sakova is scheduled to meet German Ambassador Joachim Bleicker on Wednesday, August 8 to reassure him that the interior department will provide maximum cooperation on the investigation of this issue, just like it has done so far for the German investigators.

Ambassador Bleicker also met President Andrej Kiska, who has been critical of the lack of action on the part of the Slovak criminal prosecution bodies so far, on August 7. Kiska informed the ambassador that Slovakia has started to take the necessary steps towards the clarification of the suspicions of Slovak state bodies' involvement in the abduction.

Kiska stated it is necessary for the public to learn the truth and for Slovakia to remain a trustworthy partner for Germany.

7. Aug 2018 at 20:21 | Michaela Terenzani
Our lives, all of them, are lived in versions. I have a version of my life, my parents have another, my siblings another, and for every person I count as a friend or acquaintance, there are yet more versions of my life. This is not news to anyone. Famous people famously have many biographies written about them, many different versions of who they were and what they did or didnt do.

Erna Knutsen was not a famous person, generally. She was a famous person, specifically. The regular world, the world that is not engrossed and consumed by, obsessed and beset by coffee, that world may not know who Erna Knutsen was. The coffee worldand not just the specialty coffee worldknows who Erna Knutsen was, though we may not agree on any one version of her story. But I think we might all agree, or most of us, on a version of the person.

She was generous, if not to a fault, then beyond normal, with her time, knowledge, and understanding. For years before the Specialty Coffee Association of America (now the SCA) hired its first professional staff person, Erna was the unofficial spokesperson for the industry, speaking to reporters about the new fad known as specialty coffee. Perhaps because her story can be understood as something of an underdog story, she loved to see people succeed against the expectations if not the odds; and while she was not at all shy of the spotlight, she was likely to drag someone else into the spotlight with her to share it. She had a guffaw that bordered on a cackle and yet was thoroughly charming because it was so genuine, and often surprising, because if anyone could find humor in unexpected places, it was Erna Knutsen.

During the discussion after one cupping session, Erna had scored a particular sample much higher than the rest of the jury, so Paul asked her to explain what she liked so much about that coffee. She put on her reading glasses, perused her cupping sheet for a few seconds, then looked up and replied, Oh Im sleeping with the farmer! -career coffee professional Stephen Vick, talking about the Cup of Excellence jury in Nicaragua, 2006

I am writing in the past tense because Erna died in June of this year. At 96, she was well past the age when we ask what it was that caused her death. Enough was enough. She had already lived more than one life by any measure and for those of us who claim coffee as a living, it was her second life that meant the most, her coffee life. Ernas father, Edwin, died just three months before his 100th birthday. Long life was in her blood, is one way to put it. Another way would be to say that long life was in her spirit, and her spirit was needed to launch an industry. To give away the ending, that is what Erna Knutsen did.

Some people will tell you she did this by coining a phrase. Some people will tell you she did this by taking a seat at a table where women were not welcome. Both of these things are truethey really happenedbut neither of them sparked a specialty coffee revolution. Erna Knutsen set the fire by reframing the primary transaction within the coffee trade. She understood something so simple to us now; but something that was, for green coffee brokers 50 years ago, like searching for the forest through the trees. Erna saw that green coffee sales could be counted in small bags, not just huge containers. More importantly, she saw the emergence of a roaster class for whom this idea meant something and upon which she could build a business model.

They were known as the small trade back then, in the late 60s, townie and regional roasters who couldnt buy a container or half a box of coffee at one time, even for a component in their bestselling blend. As far as the coffee traders of the day were concerned, these roasters were anomalies and throwbacks, odd-ducks in a world full of fat geese roasters that ate containers of coffee for breakfast. Shipping anything in containers was only a decade old at that point, but the steel box had quickly become a metric in coffee since the coffee world was dominated by a handful of large roastersfour of whom owned 70% of the marketwho thought of margins in fractions of a cent and sometimes in fractions of lost cents.

Ernas thinking was different.

***

To speak of a confluence of events can be dismissive of the components, as if they were all passive players. While it is true that Erna Knutsen first gazed out upon the coffee landscape at a precise and distinct moment in time, ripe for her particular point of view and manner, it might also be true that the moment was made precise and distinct because she was there to take advantage of it.

When Erna took a job as secretary to Bert Fulmer, a partner at importer B.C. Ireland, in 1968, she was 30 years into a long career as a secretary. Shed worked in banks, on Wall Street, and, after moving to San Francisco in the 1950s, for lawyers and even the Vice President of Coffee at the American Molasses Company, where coffee sold to giant roasters failed to capture her imagination. A dozen years later, she was vice president of B.C. Ireland, still a rare thing in business even in 1981, and unheard of in the coffee industry.

B.C. Ireland was established in San Francisco in 1885 and initially focused on spices, herbs, rice, and peanuts. By the turn of the century they were also importing enough coffee to merit a mention as a player by W.H. Ukers in his seminal All About Coffee as he listed San Francisco importers active in 1905. By the 1950s they were listed among the top non-roasting coffee importers in the United States in terms of volume. They continued to import herbs and spices, however, and this might be why, in 1981, the name B.C. Ireland Coffee Company was established as a business in California.

The registering agent? Erna Knutsen, president.

Erna had not only gone from secretary to vice president of B.C. Ireland, she was to be president of a new entity devoted exclusively to coffee. Four years later, as she told it, she bought the coffee importing company and renamed it Knutsen Coffees, LTD. Erna liked to add that she fired all the men in the process, but she always said it with a smile and a twinkle in her eye. Because if she did fire all the men, it was with cause. In 1985, the year of its 100th anniversary, B.C. Ireland ceased doing business and Knutsen Coffees LTD. was born.

They were all men and they didnt think women deserved the break. But I fooled them. I bought the company and fired them all. No! Did I? Oh! Oh, no. Yeah. Imagine trying to keep a woman out? Anyway, I learned a lot from them. -Erna, during her second SCAA award acceptance speech, 2014

This outcome, in 1985, on the brink of her 65th birthday, would have seemed entirely unlikely for most of her life. Or at least up until 1975, when she predicted it would happen.

***

By the time Erna Knutsen arrived at B.C. Ireland, she was in function what we would call an executive assistant today. Shed come a long way from the typing pool at 120 Wall Street in New York, or just taking shorthand, a skill that helped her land her first job at a bank the day after her wedding to her first husband. She was only 18, and got married because, she said, in those days it was the only way for a girl to get out of the house.

That was in 1939, and the depression still loomed over the country. A decade or so earlier, in 1926, her family had left Norway to escape one depression, and arrived in American just in time for another. Erna was five. She had never seen an apple, or tasted red sauce. All of her mothers sauces were white, but their Italian neighbors in a tenement building in Brooklyn used red sauces. Two aromas Erna most associated with her childhood were Italian cooking and coffee being freshly ground and brewed by her mother every morning before sunrise.

When we moved to New York, she bought coffee once per week from a tall, handsome man with a big top hat who would deliver it fresh-roasted to our house. That man was the grandfather of David Dallis, still in New York and still a small batch roaster. -Erna in a 1994 interview with Kevin Sinnott for Tea & Coffee Trade Journal

According to Erna, she was busy as a housewife in the country (i.e. the East Bay) when Bert Fulmer of the coffee Fulmers asked her to help him out part-time at B.C. Ireland. One of her responsibilities was maintaining the position book which kept track of the companys green coffee. Within the comings and goings of green coffee, she discovered what she would come to call her gems.

Like most lives long-lived, various versions can come from none other than the person who lived it. Its hard to say at this point exactly how Erna went from part-time secretary to trader specializing in selling broken lots of less than a container, gems, to the rare small roasters of the day. But we know a few things with relative certainty, between 1968 and 1973:

 Erna became interested in the small coffee roasters who were being largely ignored by traders at B.C. Ireland at the time.

 Erna saw a way to connect these small roasters to broken lots of coffee.

 Erna tasted the coffees she sold, but understood that to communicate effectively with these roasters, she needed to cup coffee.

 Using the most offensive terms imaginable, some men at B.C. Ireland told Bert Fulmer they would quit if she was allowed into the cupping room.

 Despite this, Bert Fulmer encouraged Erna to continue speaking to small roasters and selling them coffee.

 The first time she bought a full container of coffee, she had to taste the coffee at her desk in a cubicle, sitting next to the exporter. The boys roasted and brewed the coffee and brought it to her.

 That first box was Sumatra Mandheling and she sold the entire container in one month, just like she promised Fulmer she would.

In 1973, Erna Knutsen was allowed to take a seat at the cupping table at B.C. Ireland. But Ernas reputation was established before she entered the cupping room and it was that same year that Tea & Coffee Trade Journal, taking note of this novelty trend of small roasters looking for better coffees, interviewed Erna. It was in that interview that she famously uttered the phrase specialty coffee.

***

What was evident when Erna was finally allowed to cup coffee was evident for the next 40 years of her life until she retired in 2013 at age 93. She had a fine palate. Armed with a cupping spoon and a willingness to sell small lots of coffee, the small trade, now known as her roasters, flocked to Erna and in 1975 she predicted she would buy B.C. Ireland in another 10 years.

Thats another thing about Erna Knutsen: she was true to her word. Erna did not invent travel to origin, but she was among the importers that understood early on in specialty coffee that boots on the ground was essential to buying quality coffee. The way I do business is so personal, she said. She wanted to look the farmers in the eye the same way she looked her customers in the eye when she made a commitment, perhaps a necessity for a Norwegian. But this need became a hallmark of trading specialty coffee, the ability to say, not only have I tasted the coffees, Ive been there. Before the emergence of specialty coffee, coffee traders traveled to origin to visit banks and brokers, but not coffee farms.

Forgive the borrowing, but there are also many other things which Erna did. If all written down, they would fill the world. She would be the first to laugh long and hard at the suggestion that she was either savior or saint. But some lives count for something more than most among so many people that we should pause long enough to imagine everything we dont know about that person, or even the secret things we do know, because the life, the life of Erna Knutsen, was lived in any case worthy of your consideration.

Erna received a lifetime achievement award twice from the Specialty Coffee Association, at ages 73 and 93, something that can only really happen when you outlive expectations. She had played a vital role in the founding of the organization. If you watch the video of Erna accepting her second award in 2014, she is standing next to her business and life partner, John Rapinchuk. If you look closely at the necktie John is wearing, youll see it is decorated with small portraits of Erna. If you knew John, who died last year, you know this sort of thing was not atypical of him. But also, if you knew John, you know he adored Erna and that as he tied his tie that day he smiled not only because the tie was a little funny, but because so many people seeing it would understand and share in the true love behind the funny, and that, more than anything else I can say for right now, almost perfectly describes what it was like to know Erna Knutsen.

Mike Ferguson (@aboutferguson) is an American coffee professional and writer based in Atlanta and currently part of the marketing team at Olam Specialty Coffee. Read more Mike Ferguson on Sprudge.

Top photo by Zachary Carlsen for Sprudge Media Network, taken at an Equator Coffees cafe opening in 2013.
Here's a recap of all the Made In Chelsea goings on ahead of the new series beginning.

The E4 series is back on TV this evening (Monday, August 6) for a new summer series set in Croatia.

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The six-part run comes fresh from Series 15 of the main show which aired earlier this year.

And if you've forgotten just what went on, E4 has shared a handy recap of what's happened so far in 2018.

"Hyped to see Chelsea take on Croatia? Well heres a little series 15 recap to whet your appetite " they posted to Twitter.

Hyped to see Chelsea take on Croatia? Well heres a little series 15 recap to whet your appetite

Made In Chelsea: Croatia, starts tomorrow at 9pm. pic.twitter.com/YVFkiHHW8b  Made in Chelsea (@E4Chelsea) August 5, 2018

Made In Chelsea's Croatia special begins on Monday, August 6 at 9PM on E4.

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Those heading out on the summer getaway are MIC favourites Harry Baron, Sam Thompson, Ollie Locke, Digby Edgley, Liv Bentley, Jamie Laing, Mark Francis Vandelli and Victoria Baker Harber.

Joining them will be Sophie Hermann, Sophie Habboo and Melissa Tattam, as the Chelsea gang relocate to Hvar harbour on the Croatian coast.

They'll be joined by newbies Miles Nazaire, Tabitha Willett and Heloise 'Ell' Agostinelli plus Sam's sister Louise Thompson, who is called upon to 'deal with her brother's bulls**t'.

She teased: "Every time Sam strays from the nest on his own he seems to create havoc.

"But blood is thicker than water so I have always got his back. I was determined I was going to just have this summer off from filming because it's always so intense when you go off for the summer series. You're gone for two months and you live with each other, it's like being in Big Brother."

In the first episode tonight, as the Chelsea set head to Hvar Island in Croatia for the summer season, Olivia is keen to make amends with Sam after their dramatic fall out. But will either of them pluck up the courage to apologise?

Meanwhile, Jamie is becoming increasingly aware of Miles' flirty nature towards his girlfriend Ell, and is having a hard time trusting Miles' intentions.

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Elsewhere, Habbs is enjoying her summer with Sam, unaware that he's been withholding a secret that may completely ruin their blossoming relationship.

Made In Chelsea airs Monday nights on E4 at 9PM.
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The Top 3 Stocks to Buy for November

These 3 Stocks Could Be in for a Big November As we head into the month of November, many investors are trying to digest some of the latest earnings releases from the biggest names in the market and want to determine if an end-of-year rally is on the cards.

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Byron Bay is a special place, its laid back surfer town vibe attracts an alternative crowd and has a youthful backpacker atmosphere that you cant help but become enchanted by. With miles of incredible beaches, amazing surf, beautiful round the year weather and a relaxed atmosphere, Byron Bay is one of the most incredible places weve ever visited. It encapsulates that surfer vibe you envisage when you first think of visiting Australia and is somewhere you just cant help but fall in love with! Being in the most northern part of New South Wales the small town sits closer to Brisbane and Gold Coast than it does Sydney and is a perfect stop off whilst on an East Coast Australia road trip. Heres our things to do in Byron Bay guide.

Catch some waves on the amazing breaks

Byron Bay has some of the worlds most famous surf breaks and is one of the best places in Australia to either learn to surf or to experiences some world class waves and perfect your craft. Byron has many breaks all around the town which means that in almost all weather conditions there is at least some great surfing to be had. The main beach is a mecca and can get quite busy but there is plenty of space throughout the many spots and getting a lesson or renting a board could not be easier and is one of the must do things to do in Byron Bay! We also learnt to surf on this East Coast road trip, check that out here: Learning to surf in Australia.

Visit the most easterly point in Australia

Around the jagged cliffs of Byron Bay there are many incredible coastal walks to take with some jaw dropping scenery. If you dont fancy spending the entire day at the beach then heading out for a brisk walk is another incredible thing to do in Byron Bay. Walking along here is one of the best things to do in Byron Bay, mostly because of those views!

Heading up the steep cliffs and beyond the Byron Bay lighthouse rewards you with a visit to the most easterly point of Australia, quite a milestone for us after starting our backpacking adventures off in Milan 2 years ago! The views from this area too are also worth the walk which continues on around the loop track for 3.7 km along the Cape Byron Walking Track.

Take in the incredible view from the Byron Bay lighthouse

A visit to the Byron Bay isnt complete without making it up to the beautiful and historic Cape Byron lighthouse that dates back to 1901. Heading up this steep but scenic road the view over Tallows Beach is just an incredible and awe inspiring sight and a must do on our things to do in Byron Bay guide. In fact, you might have come up here to see the light house, but its the views of the rugged coastline and the endless azure blue ocean that will really mesmerise most visitors. It is also possible to go inside the lighthouse, though we preferred to see it from the outside and just take in the views from the walkways!

Visit some of the local markets and take in the hipster vibe

Byron has a creative and bohemian vibe to it which means many flock here not just for the beaches and surf for for the independent shops and markets that have sprung up over the years. It wont surprise you the range of cool, alternative, sustainable and downright wacky food and produce you can buy here. Its great to support the local producers and keep the market scene alive here in Byron too. Some of those that are on regularly are: Byron Bay Artisan Market (October to March, every Saturday night), Byron Bay Markets (first Sunday of every month) & Byron Bay Farmers Market (every Thursday morning). You can also find lots of locally owned surf shops, cafes, bars and galleries too which gives the town a real hipster charm. One of the coolest things to do in Byron Bay is to wander the markets when youre having a break from the beach!

Get out into the surrounding areas, outer beaches and rainforest

There is lots to see and do in the surroundings areas of Byron Bay too depending on you interests. A great day trip is up to the hippy town of Nimbin, its like stepping back into the 60s where anything goes and it usually does! One of the things its famous for is the availability of a certain herbal cigarette!!







Around Byron Bay there are also many other quieter outer beaches to visit such as the long and expansive Tallow Beach, the lesser visited Belongii and The Wreck which is North of Byron Bay. We cant promise youll have them entirely to yourself as they are all so epic but theyll be less crowded than places like Wategos!

If its nature and hiking you are interested in exploring then the beautiful rainforests of Arakwal National Park are a perfect place to start. There is also the Cumbebin Wetland Sanctuary which is a preserved section of the natural swamp like environment that this area was originally like!

Explore the wealth of incredible beaches

Byron Bay has probably the best collection of beaches for one small town that I have ever experienced. It feels like around every winding cover of this chilled out backpacker mecca there is yet another picture perfect beach to explore. It seems to have it all, incredible white sands beaches, turquoise water with perfect surf, magnificent rock formations and rugged cliff edges as well as wonderful coastal shrub and bushland. We just couldnt get enough of the beaches around Byron Bay!

The must visit beaches are: Tallow, Cosy Corner, Wategos, Little Wategos, The Pass, Clarkes and Main beach. For us the unique formations of The Pass made it one of our favourite beaches but the top of the list has to be Wategos and Little Wategos, these just felt like we had found paradise and really had that perfect vibe going on with the many surfers down one end and the almost untouched desert island feeling of some of the more secluded areas of the beach. Hitting the beach one f the main things to do in Byron Bay, if not THE main thing!

The perfect place for a camper van trip

Earlier this year we rented out a camper van and drove from Brisbane to Cairns, Australia is the perfect place to do camper trip and with Byron Bay being a backpacker hub it is an ideal stop off location on your trip. Whether you choose to rent out your van or buy one (Gumtree is a great place to get a bargain) Bryon Bay is a must do on your itinerary as it is so close to Brisbane and Gold Coat.

Book your accommodation here

Hey, youve got your Travel Insurance sorted havent you?

Travelling and especially backpacking is a wild adventure, but make sure you are covered just incase something goes wrong, which if youre living it up to the fullest its always a possibility!

Check travel insurance prices with World Nomads here!

Have you been to Byron, whats on your things to do in Byron Bay guide?

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Cathy Tie has accomplished more in her 22 years than most people do in a lifetime.

Her research on genomics has been published in science journals, she's founded a profitable genetic testing company and she recently became the youngest partner to join Silicon Valley venture capital firm, Cervin Ventures.

But for Tie, this is just the beginning.

Tie moved from China to Toronto with her parents when she was four years old. She was a gifted child and by the time she entered high school, her deep interest in biology and chemistry required an outlet beyond the traditional classroom.

"Doing research on my own outside of school became part of my identity," said Tie. She was astute enough to realize that she needed to tap into a network of college professors and researchers to help guide her work.

Her sophomore year she started cold-calling dozens of university science professors about her research into two protein cells in white blood cells and their relevance to protective immunity.

"I'd call for two straight years at the beginning of each school year and would be rejected by all of them," she said.

Eventually, she got her break: A professor at the University of Toronto's immunology department agreed to take the 15-year-old on for eight months to conduct research at the college's lab.

"I went straight from [high] school to the lab and would be there until 7 or 8 p.m.," she said. At 16, Tie's research was published in Canadian Young Scientists Journal and Genome Research.

After graduating in 2014, Tie enrolled in the University of Toronto to study bioinformatics, but she only stayed less than a year.

While she was doing research into rare disease genes in the university's lab, she had an idea: She wanted to start a company focused on improving the accuracy of genetic testing and better assessing a person's risk for disease.

"The challenge with genetic testing right now is that there are lots of rare mutations that surface, which haven't been analyzed. It's an obstacle that makes it harder to obtain a person's full diagnosis," said Tie, who dropped out of college to pursue the venture. "Our goal is to create a knowledge base of every possible mutation in common cancer genes."

Tie partnered with PhD student Leo Wan, who was conducting research at a molecular genetics lab in the same building. Wan had the technical expertise she needed to get the company off the ground.

The two named the startup Ranomics -- a fusion of the words "rare" and "genomics" -- and in early 2015, accepted $100,000 in seed funding from San Francisco-based biotechnology accelerator, IndieBio, which also provided them with office and lab space and mentoring.

"At the time, there was also a lot of investor interest in companies focused on genetics and genetic testing," said Tie. This interest, and the smart young Tie herself, grabbed the attention of investors, helping them to raise more than $2 million in funding since the company was incorporated in 2015.

Tie has since moved the company back to Toronto and has expanded her team and roster of customers.

So far, Ranomics has analyzed 2,000 mutations in breast, colon and prostate cancer for global genetic testing firms such as Beijing Genomics Institute, Veritas Genetics and Advanced Molecular Diagnostics, a division of Mount Sinai Hospital.

Related: She's 35 and runs a $3 billion company

Last year, Ranomics launched a new business unit called VariantFind, which helps create DNA libraries specifically for use by customers in synthetic biology and protein engineering industries. Their applications would include gene therapy treatment for diseases and creating new products in the agricultural industry.

With the two businesses doing well, Tie decided to take on a new challenge: venture capital.

It's an area that has captivated since she began raising money for Ranomics.

Through a friend, she was introduced to Palo Alto-based VC firm Cervin Ventures, an early stage investment firm that typically invests $1 to $2 million in seed stage companies in the enterprise technology space.

She met with the firm's partners last year and they offered her a position as partner. "They were respectful of what I had achieved and my operational experience. Most importantly, they were open-minded," she said.

In January, Tie moved to Silicon Valley to become the youngest of four partners at the firm. Tie remained on Ranomics' board, but turned over her role as CEO to Wan.

So far, she loves the VC experience. But, she admits, it's been a steep learning curve.

"My core expertise was in genetics, but I had a good understanding about how early stage companies grow from the perspective of the founder, particularly in areas such as revenue, hiring and taking a product to market," she said.

Eight months in, she's most excited about the potential of investing in blockchain technology companies that will disrupt traditional industries. Tie said she will probably stay in the venture capital industry for a while.

"I'm still involved with Ranomics, but I really do think it's a great experience being on both sides of the business equation," she said. "I've launched a startup and am now finding innovative startups to fund."
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Criticising the coverage of a medium over Amin Bazar bus drowning, Major General Emdad has called for providing the media with accurate information during disaster.

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Upcoming ABC / Netflix spy thriller Pine Gap will have its world premiere at the Adelaide Film Festival in October.

Two episodes of the six part Screentime series will screen on October 11 followed by a party.

Set in the secretive world of intelligence and the enigmatic US / Australia joint defence facility in central Australia, the series delves into the famously strong alliance between the two countries. Filming took place in South Australia & the Northern Territory.

The series stars Parker Sawyers (Southside With You), Jacqueline McKenzie (Romper Stomper), Steve Toussaint (Fortitude), Tess Haubrich (Alien: Covenant, Wolf Creek).

It is due on ABC later this year with Netflix having rights in all other territories.
TEN has confirmed its schedule for Pilot Week from August 19.

Eight new shows will launch from Sunday  Saturday, with a new offering every night.

Most will air at 8:30 or 9pm (exceptions being Skit Happens and Bring Back Saturday Night.)

Audience reaction, social buzz and ratings will help decide what shows will return to Australian television screens in 2019.

Skit Happens. Sunday, 19 August 8.00pm.

Nothing is safe from a Skit Happens parody, when the nations up-and-coming comedians including Jenna Owen, Heath Franklin, Vita Carbone, Stuart Daulman, Janis McGavin, Josh Glanc and Neel Kolhatkar join forces for Network Tens first sketch comedy in 12 years.

Disgrace! Sunday, 19 August 8.30pm.

The world is full of disgrace and outrage. Shunned politician Sam Dastyari and the team behind Gruen and The Chaser manage the latest outbreak of outrage in a half-hour of opinion, insight and laughs.

Drunk History. Monday, 20 August 9.30pm.

Rhys Darby and Stephen Curry pour themselves a drink in the international hit comedy format that takes Australias rich, and often surprising history and re-tells it through the words of our most loved comedians and entertainers. Starring Gyton Grantley, Ryan Fitzy Fitzgerald, Anthony Lehmo Lehmann and Gretta Lee Jackson.

Taboo. Tuesday, 21 August 9.00pm.

Taboo has broken audience records in its country of origin, Belgium. The premise is as confronting as it is simple. The very funny Harley Breen spends five days and nights with members of a disadvantaged group in society and uses the experience to perform a stand-up routine about them  with the subjects sitting in the front row.

Kinne Tonight. Wednesday, 22 August 9.00pm.

Comedian Troy Kinne ditches the stress of modern life, bringing hard-working Australians a fast-paced half-hour of laughter.

Trial By Kyle. Thursday, 23 August 8.30pm.

The toughest cases, biggest celebrities and genuine disputes can only be settled by one man, radio shock jock Kyle Sandilands. As Kyle carefully unravels each case, former The Bachelor Australia star and criminal lawyer Anna Heinrich is on hand to assist in forensically analysing the evidence.

Dave. Friday, 24 August 8.30pm.

Funny-man Dave ONeil opens the doors to his crazy life with on-air wife Emily Taheny in a half-hour narrative comedy. Expect laughter, tears and the appreciation of not being Dave.

Bring Back Saturday Night. Saturday, 25 August 7.30pm.

Join Roves quest to reunite Australias greatest acts, bands, and television faces in a generation-bending live television show where young performers will bring back the best of the past, and old-school entertainers will be challenged with reinvention.
I recently stumbled across a file format known as Intel HEX. As far as I can gather, Intel HEX files (which use the .hex extension) are meant to make binary images less opaque by encoding them as lines of hexadecimal digits. Apparently they are used by people who program microcontrollers or need to burn data into ROM. In any case, when I opened up a HEX file in Vim for the first time, I discovered something shocking. Here was this file format that, at least to me, was deeply esoteric, but Vim already knew all about it. Each line of a HEX file is a record divided into different fieldsVim had gone ahead and colored each of the fields a different color. set ft? I asked, in awe. filetype=hex , Vim answered, triumphant.

Vim is everywhere. It is used by so many people that something like HEX file support shouldnt be a surprise. Vim comes pre-installed on Mac OS and has a large constituency in the Linux world. It is familiar even to people that hate it, because enough popular command line tools will throw users into Vim by default that the uninitiated getting trapped in Vim has become a meme. There are major websites, including Facebook, that will scroll down when you press the j key and up when you press the k keythe unlikely high-water mark of Vims spread through digital culture.

And yet Vim is also a mystery. Unlike React, for example, which everyone knows is developed and maintained by Facebook, Vim has no obvious sponsor. Despite its ubiquity and importance, there doesnt seem to be any kind of committee or organization that makes decisions about Vim. You could spend several minutes poking around the Vim website without getting a better idea of who created Vim or why. If you launch Vim without giving it a file argument, then you will see Vims startup message, which says that Vim is developed by Bram Moolenaar et al. But that doesnt tell you much. Who is Bram Moolenaar and who are his shadowy confederates?

Perhaps more importantly, while were asking questions, why does exiting Vim involve typing :wq ? Sure, its a write operation followed by a quit operation, but that is not a particularly intuitive convention. Who decided that copying text should instead be called yanking? Why is :%s/foo/bar/gc short for find and replace? Vims idiosyncrasies seem too arbitrary to have been made up, but then where did they come from?

The answer, as is so often the case, begins with that ancient crucible of computing, Bell Labs. In some sense, Vim is only the latest iteration of a piece of softwarecall it the wq text editorthat has been continuously developed and improved since the dawn of the Unix epoch.

Ken Thompson Writes a Line Editor

In 1966, Bell Labs hired Ken Thompson. Thompson had just completed a Masters degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the University of California, Berkeley. While there, he had used a text editor called QED, written for the Berkeley Timesharing System between 1965 and 1966. One of the first things Thompson did after arriving at Bell Labs was rewrite QED for the MIT Compatible Time-Sharing System. He would later write another version of QED for the Multics project. Along the way, he expanded the program so that users could search for lines in a file and make substitutions using regular expressions.

The Multics project, which like the Berkeley Timesharing System sought to create a commercially viable time-sharing operating system, was a partnership between MIT, General Electric, and Bell Labs. AT&T eventually decided the project was going nowhere and pulled out. Thompson and fellow Bell Labs researcher Dennis Ritchie, now without access to a time-sharing system and missing the feel of interactive computing that such systems offered, set about creating their own version, which would eventually be known as Unix. In August 1969, while his wife and young son were away on vacation in California, Thompson put together the basic components of the new system, allocating a week each to the operating system, the shell, the editor, and the assembler.

The editor would be called ed . It was based on QED but was not an exact re-implementation. Thompson decided to ditch certain QED features. Regular expression support was pared back so that only relatively simple regular expressions would be understood. QED allowed users to edit several files at once by opening multiple buffers, but ed would only work with one buffer at a time. And whereas QED could execute a buffer containing commands, ed would do no such thing. These simplifications may have been called for. Dennis Ritchie has said that going without QEDs advanced regular expressions was not much of a loss.

ed is now a part of the POSIX specification, so if you have a POSIX-compliant system, you will have it installed on your computer. Its worth playing around with, because many of the ed commands are today a part of Vim. In order to write a buffer to disk, for example, you have to use the w command. In order to quit the editor, you have to use the q command. These two commands can be specified on the same line at oncehence, wq . Like Vim, ed is a modal editor; to enter input mode from command mode you would use the insert command ( i ), the append command ( a ), or the change command ( c ), depending on how you are trying to transform your text. ed also introduced the s/foo/bar/g syntax for finding and replacing, or substituting, text.

Given all these similarities, you might expect the average Vim user to have no trouble using ed . But ed is not at all like Vim in another important respect. ed is a true line editor. It was written and widely used in the days of the teletype printer. When Ken Thompson and Dennis Ritchie were hacking away at Unix, they looked like this:

ed doesnt allow you to edit lines in place among the other lines of the open buffer, or move a cursor around, because ed would have to reprint the entire file every time you made a change to it. There was no mechanism in 1969 for ed to clear the contents of the screen, because the screen was just a sheet of paper and everything that had already been output had been output in ink. When necessary, you can ask ed to print out a range of lines for you using the list command ( l ), but most of the time you are operating on text that you cant see. Using ed is thus a little trying to find your way around a dark house with an underpowered flashlight. You can only see so much at once, so you have to try your best to remember where everything is.

Heres an example of an ed session. Ive added comments (after the # character) explaining the purpose of each line, though if these were actually entered ed wouldnt recognize them as comments and would complain:

[sinclairtarget 09:49 ~]$ ed i # Enter input mode Hello world! Isn't it a nice day? . # Finish input 1,2l # List lines 1 to 2 Hello world!$ $ 2d # Delete line 2 ,l # List entire buffer Hello world!$ Isn't it a nice day?$ s/nice/terrible/g # Substitute globally ,l Hello world!$ Isn't it a terrible day?$ w foo.txt # Write to foo.txt 38 # (bytes written) q # Quit [sinclairtarget 10:50 ~]$ cat foo.txt Hello world! Isn't it a terrible day?

As you can see, ed is not an especially talkative program.

Bill Joy Writes a Text Editor

ed worked well enough for Thompson and Ritchie. Others found it difficult to use and it acquired a reputation for being a particularly egregious example of Unixs hostility toward the novice. In 1975, a man named George Coulouris developed an improved version of ed on the Unix system installed at Queen Marys College, London. Coulouris wrote his editor to take advantage of the video displays that he had available at Queen Marys. Unlike ed , Coulouris program allowed users to edit a single line in place on screen, navigating through the line keystroke by keystroke (imagine using Vim on one line at a time). Coulouris called his program em , or editor for mortals, which he had supposedly been inspired to do after Thompson paid a visit to Queen Marys, saw the program Coulouris had built, and dismissed it, saying that he had no need to see the state of a file while editing it.

In 1976, Coulouris brought em with him to UC Berkeley, where he spent the summer as a visitor to the CS department. This was exactly ten years after Ken Thompson had left Berkeley to work at Bell Labs. At Berkeley, Coulouris met Bill Joy, a graduate student working on the Berkeley Software Distribution (BSD). Coulouris showed em to Joy, who, starting with Coulouris source code, built out an improved version of ed called ex , for extended ed . Version 1.1 of ex was bundled with the first release of BSD Unix in 1978. ex was largely compatible with ed , but it added two more modes: an open mode, which enabled single-line editing like had been possible with em , and a visual mode, which took over the whole screen and enabled live editing of an entire file like we are used to today.

For the second release of BSD in 1979, an executable named vi was introduced that did little more than open ex in visual mode.

ex / vi (henceforth vi ) established most of the conventions we now associate with Vim that werent already a part of ed . The video terminal that Joy was using was a Lear Siegler ADM-3A, which had a keyboard with no cursor keys. Instead, arrows were painted on the h , j , k , and l keys, which is why Joy used those keys for cursor movement in vi . The escape key on the ADM-3A keyboard was also where today we would find the tab key, which explains how such a hard-to-reach key was ever assigned an operation as common as exiting a mode. The : character that prefixes commands also comes from vi , which in regular mode (i.e. the mode entered by running ex ) used : as a prompt. This addressed a long-standing complaint about ed , which, once launched, greets users with utter silence. In visual mode, saving and quitting now involved typing the classic :wq . Yanking and putting, marks, and the set command for setting options were all part of the original vi . The features we use in the course of basic text editing today in Vim are largely vi features.

vi was the only text editor bundled with BSD Unix other than ed . At the time, Emacs could cost hundreds of dollars (this was before GNU Emacs), so vi became enormously popular. But vi was a direct descendant of ed , which meant that the source code could not be modified without an AT&T source license. This motivated several people to create open-source versions of vi . STEVIE (ST Editor for VI Enthusiasts) appeared in 1987, Elvis appeared in 1990, and nvi appeared in 1994. Some of these clones added extra features like syntax highlighting and split windows. Elvis in particular saw many of its features incorporated into Vim, since so many Elvis users pushed for their inclusion.

Bram Moolenaar Writes Vim

Vim, which now abbreviates Vi Improved, originally stood for Vi Imitation. Like many of the other vi clones, Vim began as an attempt to replicate vi on a platform where it was not available. Bram Moolenaar, a Dutch software engineer working for a photocopier company in Venlo, the Netherlands, wanted something like vi for his brand-new Amiga 2000. Moolenaar had grown used to using vi on the Unix systems at his university and it was now in his fingers. So in 1988, using the existing STEVIE vi clone as a starting point, Moolenaar began work on Vim.

Moolenaar had access to STEVIE because STEVIE had previously appeared on something called a Fred Fish disk. Fred Fish was an American programmer that mailed out a floppy disk every month with a curated selection of the best open-source software available for the Amiga platform. Anyone could request a disk for nothing more than the price of postage. Several versions of STEVIE were released on Fred Fish disks. The version that Moolenaar used had been released on Fred Fish disk 256. (Disappointingly, Fred Fish disks seem to have nothing to do with Freddi Fish.)

Moolenaar liked STEVIE but quickly noticed that there were many vi commands missing. So, for the first release of Vim, Moolenaar made vi compatibility his priority. Someone else had written a series of vi macros that, when run through a properly vi -compatible editor, could solve a randomly generated maze. Moolenaar was able to get these macros working in Vim. In 1991, Vim was released for the first time on Fred Fish disk 591 as Vi Imitation. Moolenaar had added some features (including multi-level undo and a quickfix mode for compiler errors) that meant that Vim had surpassed vi . But Vim would remain Vi Imitation until Vim 2.0, released in 1993 via FTP.

Moolenaar, with the occasional help of various internet collaborators, added features to Vim at a steady clip. Vim 2.0 introduced support for the wrap option and for horizontal scrolling through long lines of text. Vim 3.0 added support for split windows and buffers, a feature inspired by the vi clone nvi . Vim also now saved each buffer to a swap file, so that edited text could survive a crash. Vimscript made its first appearance in Vim 5.0, along with support for syntax highlighting. All the while, Vims popularity was growing. It was ported to MS-DOS, to Windows, to Mac, and even to Unix, where it competed with the original vi .

In 2006, Vim was voted the most popular editor among Linux Journal readers. Today, according to Stack Overflows 2018 Developer Survey, Vim is the most popular text-mode (i.e. terminal emulator) editor, used by 25.8% of all software developers (and 40% of Sysadmin/DevOps people). For a while, during the late 1980s and throughout the 1990s, programmers waged the Editor Wars, which pitted Emacs users against vi (and eventually Vim) users. While Emacs certainly still has a following, some people think that the Editor Wars are over and that Vim won. The 2018 Stack Overflow Developer Survey suggests that this is true; only 4.1% of respondents used Emacs.

How did Vim become so successful? Obviously people like the features that Vim has to offer. But I would argue that the long history behind Vim illustrates that it had more advantages than just its feature set. Vims codebase dates back only to 1988, when Moolenaar began working on it. The wq text editor, on the other handthe broader vision of how a Unix-y text editor should workgoes back a half-century. The wq text editor had a few different concrete expressions, but thanks in part to the unusual attention paid to backward compatibility by both Bill Joy and Bram Moolenaar, good ideas accumulated gradually over time. The wq text editor, in that sense, is one of the longest-running and most successful open-source projects, having enjoyed contributions from some of the greatest minds in the computing world. I dont think the startup-company-throws-away all-precedents-and-creates-disruptive-new-software approach to development is necessarily bad, but Vim is a reminder that the collaborative and incremental approach can also yield wonders.

If you enjoyed this post, more like it come out every four weeks! Follow @TwoBitHistory on Twitter or subscribe to the RSS feed to make sure you know when a new post is out.

Previously on TwoBitHistory
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP)  Nebraska state officials are preparing for their first execution in two decades and their first-ever lethal injection with an untried combination of drugs that includes a powerful painkiller responsible for much of the nation's opioid epidemic and a paralyzing drug that could conceal whether something has gone wrong.

The execution planned for Aug. 14 at the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln comes with significant risks for Nebraska prison officials, who haven't carried out a death sentence since using the electric chair in 1997.

The Death Penalty Information Center says no state in modern history has resumed executions after such a long hiatus. Nebraska is also poised to become the first state to use a four-drug protocol, including three substances never before used in an execution.

See Also:
Canada to ask allies to help cool Saudi dispute; U.S. offers no aid

By David Ljunggren

OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canada plans to seek help from the United Arab Emirates and Britain to defuse an escalating dispute with Saudi Arabia, sources said on Tuesday, but close ally the United States made clear it would not get involved.

The Saudi government on Sunday recalled its ambassador to Ottawa, barred Canada's envoy from returning and placed a ban on new trade, denouncing Canada for urging the release of jailed rights activists. Riyadh accused Ottawa on Tuesday of interfering in its internal affairs.

One well placed source said the Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau - which stresses the importance of human rights - planned to reach out to the United Arab Emirates.

"The key is to work with allies and friends in the region to cool things down, which can happen quickly," said the source, who declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the situation.

Another source said Canada would also seek help from Britain. The British government on Tuesday urged the two nations to show restraint.

The United States, traditionally one of Canada's most important friends, stayed on the sidelines. U.S. President Donald Trump - who criticized Trudeau after a Group of Seven summit in June - has forged tighter ties with Riyadh.

"Both sides need to diplomatically resolve this together. We can't do it for them; they need to resolve it together," U.S. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told a briefing.

The first Canadian source said Ottawa shared the view of foreign policy experts who believe the Saudi reaction reflected internal strains inside the kingdom, where 32-year-old Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is trying to push through domestic reforms.

The office of Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland did not respond to requests for comment.

The dispute looks set to damage what is a modest bilateral trade relationship worth nearly $4 billion (3.09 billion) a year. Canadian exports to Saudi Arabia totalled about $1.12 billion in 2017, or 0.2 percent of the total value of Canadian exports.

Story continues

Canada says it does not know what will happen to a $13 billion defence contract to sell Canadian-made General Dynamics Corp armoured vehicles to Saudi Arabia.

European traders said the main Saudi wheat-buying agency had told grains exporters it will no longer accept Canadian-origin wheat and barley.

Saudi Arabia has also ordered roughly 15,000 Saudis studying in Canada to leave.

Canada's previous Conservative government, which lost power to the Liberals in 2015, also had challenges with Riyadh over human rights.

Thomas Juneau, an assistant professor and Middle East expert at the University of Ottawa, said Saudi irritation at the way the General Dynamics contract was handled also helped explain Riyadh's response.

The deal was agreed in 2014 by the Conservatives, who shared the Saudi desire for deeper relations, he said. But the task of approving the export permits fell to the Liberals, who were lobbied by human rights activists to say no.

The Liberals granted the permits but showed little interest in deepening ties with Riyadh amid growing civil society and media attacks on the agreement, Juneau added.

"That for Saudi Arabia was the source of growing frustration," he said in a phone interview. "(The ambassador) was very clear in saying he was irritated by what he saw as passivity by the Canadian government, which in his view was not resisting that criticism."

The first Canadian source said Ottawa had no regrets about speaking out on human rights in Saudi Arabia. Canada's ambassador, Dennis Horak, is not in Riyadh. The source said Saudi authorities were aware Horak was due to start a new posting next month.

(This version of the story corrects quote in seventh paragraph from State Department spokeswoman to "resolve" from "solve".)

(Additional reporting by William James in London, Daphne Psaledakis in Washington, Michael Hogan, Gus Trompiz and Maha El Dahan in Hamburg and Maher Chmaytelli in Dubai; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
(This July 23 story corrects third paragraph to clarify that Changsheng falsified production documents related to a rabies vaccine and manufactured an ineffective vaccine for babies.)

By Adam Jourdan and John Ruwitch

SHANGHAI (Reuters) - A vaccine scandal in China, which has prompted angry reactions from citizens fed up with safety scares, is sending ripples across the local drug market and threatening Chinese ambitions to play a larger role in the global pharmaceutical arena.

Chinese police have launched an investigation into Changsheng Biotechnology Co <002680.SZ>, its chairwoman and four senior executives over suspected criminal behaviour, the official Xinhua news agency said late on Monday.

Changsheng has been found to have falsified production documents related to a rabies vaccine and manufactured an ineffective vaccine for Chinese babies as young as three months, underscoring the challenge the world's second-biggest drug market faces cleaning up its image as it aims to promote its vaccines globally.

According to the China Food and Drug Administration, Changsheng fabricated production records as well as product inspection records, and arbitrarily changed process parameters and equipment, in "serious violations" of the law.

Shares in Chinese vaccine makers and biotech firms fell across the board on Monday after the country's Premier Li Keqiang had slammed the vaccine maker for having crossed a moral red line and called for swift action.

While there have been no known reports of people being harmed by the vaccine, the regulator ordered Changsheng to halt production and recall the product after the scandal emerged earlier this month.

The case has gone viral in China, where sensitivity over food and drug safety is extremely high after a slew of scandals over the last decade. It was among the most hotly discussed topics on microblogging website Sina Weibo on Monday.

A hashtag related to the case had been read more than 600 million times by mid-afternoon on Monday, despite reports that some posts were being taken down by censors.

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"All my friends are freaking out with this vaccine case, everyone is scared. It really reflects big loopholes and issues with China's food and drug safety regulation," wrote one Weibo user under the handle 1988 Cheng Hongyu.

"Yesterday it was milk powder, today vaccines. What will it be tomorrow?" another wrote, referring to a major scandal in 2008 when several infants died after industrial chemical melamine was added to milk powder to raise protein levels.

LI CALLS FOR PROBE

Chinese President Xi Jinping, quoted on state television on Friday evening, said Changsheng's actions were "shocking" and that authorities should deal with the matter swiftly and look to improve the country's vaccine management system.

Premier Li had earlier called for an immediate investigation into the company and urged severe punishment for those implicated. He added the public needed clear information.

"We will resolutely crack down on illegal and criminal acts that endanger the safety of peoples' lives, resolutely punish lawbreakers according to the law, and resolutely and severely criticise dereliction of duty in supervision," he said.

Changsheng apologised in a regulatory filing on Monday and said the suspension of its vaccine would hit its finances. It added some regional disease control agencies had suspended some of its other vaccines.

The company said it also faces the risk of being delisted due to an investigation by China's securities regulator into suspected violations of information disclosure.

Changsheng shares, which resumed trading on Monday afternoon session after being suspended in the morning, were down 10 percent. They have slumped 47 percent since mid-July. The wider CSI 300 healthcare index <.CSI300HC> was down about 5 percent.

PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS

The Changsheng case is the latest in a slew of scandals that has plagued China's pharmaceutical industry in recent years.

A regulator in the northeastern province of Jilin, where Changsheng is based, revealed on Friday that the company had last year sold 252,600 substandard DPT vaccines to inoculate children against diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus.

Another company Wuhan Institute of Biological Products was also implicated in the DPT vaccine issue. Earlier, in 2016, Chinese police busted a gang for selling around $90 million (69.56 million pounds) worth of illegal vaccines on the black market.

Last week European regulators found that a common blood pressure and heart drug manufactured in bulk by Chinese firm Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceutical <600521.SS> may have contained an impurity linked to cancer since 2012.

Marina Cui - a 25-year-old mother from the southwestern Yunnan province whose five-month-old child took a DPT vaccine last week - said the latest revelations had made her worried about the overall safety of vaccines.

"The recent fake vaccine scandal has really made me very scared," she said, adding she wanted clear information from authorities, rather than people with little knowledge or expertise stirring up parents' emotional concerns.

The country's official newspaper China Daily has cautioned the Changsheng case could become a public health crisis if not handled "in a reasonable and transparent manner".

The government needs to let the public know it "will punish any wrongdoers without mercy", the paper wrote in an editorial.

Late on Sunday, state news agency Xinhua ran an editorial calling for strict punishment for any violations and for regulators to tighten oversight of the industry.

The state-run Global Times also weighed in, saying the case had "sparked nationwide outrage, (and) could pose serious challenges for a domestic industry that has seen rapid growth in recent years but experienced a series of scandals".

(Reporting by John Ruwitch and Adam Jourdan; Additional reporting by Shanghai newsroom; Editing by Himani Sarkar and Louise Heavens)
By Nathan Layne, Sarah N. Lynch and Karen Freifeld

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Reuters) - Rick Gates, a longtime business associate of U.S. President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman Paul Manafort, on Monday testified that he helped Manafort file false tax returns and hide his foreign bank accounts.

Gates is the government's star witness in its case against Manafort, who is accused of bank and tax fraud. Gates, who also served on Trump's campaign, pleaded guilty in February and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors under a deal that could lead to a reduced sentence.

Taking the stand on the trial's fifth day, Gates admitted to helping Manafort doctor financial statements, hide foreign income and cheat on his taxes. He said he was aware Manafort was acting as an unregistered foreign agent in lobbying for Ukraine. He said he engaged in the wrongdoing at Manafort's direction.

"At Mr. Manafort's request we did not disclose foreign bank accounts," Gates told the jury in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia.

Manafort's defence hinges on pinning the blame on Gates, who they accuse of embezzling millions of dollars from Manafort.

Gates, who first met Manafort working for him as an intern fresh out of college, has been described by witnesses as Manafort's right-hand man in his multimillion-dollar political consulting business.

Throughout his testimony, Gates largely avoided making eye contact with Manafort, who appeared to be watching him.

In addition to assisting in Manafort's alleged crimes, Gates told the jury he had failed to report income he routed through his bank accounts in the United Kingdom and said he stole several hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort by filing false and inflated expense reports.

Those admissions are likely to become a focal point for Manafort's defence team when he is cross examined on Tuesday.

Manafort has pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of bank and tax fraud and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts. The charges largely predate his five months on the Trump campaign. His case is the first to go to trial arising from Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. election.

Story continues

The jury has heard how Manafort made tens of millions of dollars for work with pro-Russian politicians in Ukraine. Mueller is also investigating possible coordination between Trump campaign members and Russian officials in the election campaign, but the charges against Manafort do not address that.

CYPRUS ACCOUNTS

Gates also testified about how wealthy Ukrainian businessmen paid Manafort millions of dollars for his political services through wire transfers to Cyprus-based accounts that were set up for Manafort by a lawyer and local politician known as "Dr. K."

"He indicated that the Ukrainian businessmen...had directed him to set up Cyprus accounts because the payments would be coming from Cyprus," Gates said when asked to explain the payment structure.

Gates also testified that both he and Manafort had control over the foreign accounts, as well as Manafort's business associate Konstantin Kilimnik.

Kilimnik is a Russian-Ukrainian political consultant who was indicted in June on charges stemming from the Mueller probe. In court filings, Mueller has accused Kilimnik of having ties to Russian intelligence services, an allegation he has denied.

Gates testified that Manafort told him to report overseas income as loans to lower Manafort's taxable income, supporting the testimony of his accountant.

"When income came into the company, Mr. Manafort directed whether it would be treated as income ...or loans," Gates said.

The jury heard testimony on Friday and Monday from accountant Cynthia Laporta, who described how Manafort and Gates doctored financial statements and backdated loans.

Gates admitted in testimony on Friday that he had lied to Laporta, as well as other accountants and Manafort's bookkeeper.

In questioning Laporta on Monday, a prosecutor asked her about a $10 million (7.72 million) loan purportedly received by Manafort from Russian businessman Oleg Deripaska in 2006. Laporta said she had no indication that the loan from Deripaska had been paid off.

Since the trial started before U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis last Tuesday, Manafort's lawyers have kept their cross-examinations brief and at times refrained from attempting to rebut damaging testimony in detail.

But Laporta's testimony raised the stakes for Manafort. Testifying under immunity, she was the first witness to admit she knew accounting manoeuvres Manafort and Gates requested of her were wrong and could be crimes. One accounting trick saved Manafort $500,000 in taxes, she said.

Under cross examination on Monday, defence attorney Kevin Downing attempted to show that Gates was the point person in dealing with the accountants. But while Laporta acknowledged that she regularly communicated with Gates, she said she believed Manafort was in the know.

"In most instances it was clear Mr. Manafort knew what was going on," Laporta said.

On redirect, prosecutor Uzo Asonye used a spreadsheet to show that Manafort's firm had earned $31 million in gross receipts between 2010 and 2014 - half the amount prosecutors say he netted during the same time frame in Ukraine.

(Reporting by Nathan Layne, Sarah N. Lynch and Karen Freifeld in Alexandria, Virginia, Warren Strobel; Editing by Grant McCool and Lisa Shumaker)
ATAQ, Yemen (AP)  Again and again over the past two years, a military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and backed by the United States has claimed it won decisive victories that drove al-Qaida militants from their strongholds across Yemen and shattered their ability to attack the West.

Here's what the victors did not disclose: many of their conquests came without firing a shot.

That's because the coalition cut secret deals with al-Qaida fighters, paying some to leave key cities and towns and letting others retreat with weapons, equipment and wads of looted cash, an investigation by The Associated Press has found. Hundreds more were recruited to join the coalition itself.

These compromises and alliances have allowed al-Qaida militants to survive to fight another day  and risk strengthening the most dangerous branch of the terror network that carried out the 9/11 attacks. Key participants in the pacts said the U.S. was aware of the arrangements and held off on any drone strikes.

The deals uncovered by the AP reflect the contradictory interests of the two wars being waged simultaneously in this southwestern corner of the Arabian Peninsula.

In one conflict, the U.S. is working with its Arab allies  particularly the United Arab Emirates  with the aim of eliminating the branch of extremists known as al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP. But the larger mission is to win the civil war against the Houthis, Iranian-backed Shiite rebels. And in that fight, al-Qaida militants are effectively on the same side as the Saudi-led coalition  and, by extension, the United States.

"Elements of the U.S. military are clearly aware that much of what the U.S. is doing in Yemen is aiding AQAP and there is much angst about that," said Michael Horton, a fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, a U.S. analysis group that tracks terrorism.

"However, supporting the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia against what the U.S. views as Iranian expansionism takes priority over battling AQAP and even stabilizing Yemen," Horton said.

Story continues

The AP's findings are based on reporting in Yemen and interviews with two dozen officials, including Yemeni security officers, militia commanders, tribal mediators and four members of al-Qaida's branch. All but a few of those sources spoke on condition of anonymity, fearing reprisals. Emirati-backed factions, like most armed groups in Yemen, have been accused of abducting or killing their critics.

Coalition-backed militias actively recruit al-Qaida militants, or those who were recently members, because they're considered exceptional fighters, the AP found.

The coalition forces are comprised of a dizzying mix of militias, factions, tribal warlords and tribes with very local interests. And AQAP militants are intertwined with many of them.

One Yemeni commander who was put on the U.S. terrorism list for al-Qaida ties last year continues to receive money from the UAE to run his militia, his own aide told the AP. Another commander, recently granted $12 million for his fighting force by Yemen's president, has a known al-Qaida figure as his closest aide.

In one case, a tribal mediator who brokered a deal between the Emiratis and al-Qaida even gave the extremists a farewell dinner.

Horton said much of the war on al-Qaida by the UAE and its allied militias is a "farce."

"It is now almost impossible to untangle who is AQAP and who is not since so many deals and alliances have been made," he said.

The U.S. has sent billions of dollars in weapons to the coalition to fight the Iran-backed Houthis. U.S. advisers also give the coalition intelligence used in targeting on-the-ground adversaries in Yemen, and American jets provide air-to-air refueling for coalition war planes. The U.S. does not fund the coalition, however, and there is no evidence that American money went to AQAP militants.

The U.S. is aware of an al-Qaida presence among the anti-Houthi ranks, a senior American official told reporters in Cairo earlier this year. Because coalition members back militias with hard-line Islamic commanders, "it's very, very easy for al-Qaida to insinuate itself into the mix," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity under the terms of the briefing.

More recently, the Pentagon vigorously denied any complicity with al-Qaida militants.

"Since the beginning of 2017, we have conducted more than 140 strikes to remove key AQAP leaders and disrupt its ability to use ungoverned spaces to recruit, train and plan operations against the U.S. and our partners across the region," Navy Cmdr. Sean Robertson, a Pentagon spokesman, wrote in an email to the AP.

A senior Saudi official commented by saying that the Saudi-led coalition "continues its commitment to combat extremism and terrorism."

An Emirati government spokesman did not reply to questions from the AP.

But on Monday, Emirati Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Anwar Gargash tweeted that the UAE-backed counter-terrorism strategy is working. He said it had "removed" thousands of militants and deprived them of safe havens.

AQAP is "at its weakest since 2012," he wrote, adding that the UAE and its allies "have all lost troops in the fight."

The coalition began fighting in Yemen in 2015 after the Houthis overran the north, including the capital, Sanaa. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are determined to stop what they consider a move by their nemesis, Iran, to take over Yemen, and their professed aim is to restore the internationally recognized government of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi.

Al-Qaida is leveraging the chaos to its advantage.

"The United States is certainly in a bind in Yemen," said Katherine Zimmerman, a research fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. "It doesn't make sense that the United States has identified al-Qaida as a threat, but that we have common interests inside of Yemen and that, in some places, it looks like we're looking the other way."

Within this complicated conflict, al-Qaida says its numbers  which U.S. officials have estimated at 6,000 to 8,000 members  are rising.

An al-Qaida commander who helps organize deployments told the AP that the front lines against the Houthis provide fertile ground to recruit new members.

"Meaning, if we send 20, we come back with 100," he said.

The well-known commander communicated with AP via a secure messaging app on condition of anonymity because he had no authorization from the group to talk to the news media.

___

The Associated Press reported this story with help from a grant from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting.

___

A FAREWELL DINNER FOR AL-QAIDA

In February, Emirati troops and their Yemeni militia allies flashed victory signs to TV cameras as they declared the recapture of al-Said, a district of villages running through the mountainous province of Shabwa  an area al-Qaida had largely dominated for nearly three years.

It was painted as a crowning victory in a months-long offensive, Operation Swift Sword, that the Emirati ambassador to Washington, Yousef al-Otaiba, had proclaimed would "disrupt the terrorist organization's network and degrade its ability to conduct future attacks."

The Pentagon, which assisted with a small number of troops, echoed that promise, saying the mission would weaken the group's ability to use Yemen as a base.

But weeks before those forces' entry, a string of pickup trucks mounted with machine guns and loaded with masked al-Qaida militants drove out of al-Said unmolested, according to a tribal mediator involved in the deal for their withdrawal.

The U.S. has killed al-Qaida's top leaders in a drone strike campaign that accelerated in recent years. But in this victory  as in the others touted by the coalition  the mediator said armed U.S. drones were absent, despite the large, obvious convoy.

Under the terms of the deal, the coalition promised al-Qaida members it would pay them to leave, according to Awad al-Dahboul, the province's security chief. His account was confirmed by the mediator and two Yemeni government officials.

Al-Dahboul said about 200 al-Qaida members received payments. He did not learn the exact amounts, but said he knew that 100,000 Saudi rials ($26,000) were paid to one al-Qaida commander  in the presence of Emiratis.

Under the accord, thousands of local tribal fighters were to be enlisted in the UAE-funded Shabwa Elite Force militia. For every 1,000 fighters, 50 to 70 would be al-Qaida members, the mediator and two officials said.

Saleh bin Farid al-Awlaqi, a pro-Emirati tribal leader who was the founder of one Elite Force branch, denied any agreements were made. He said he and others enticed young al-Qaida members in Shabwa to defect, which weakened the group, forcing it to withdraw on its own. He said about 150 fighters who defected were allowed into the Elite Force, but only after they underwent a "repentance" program.

The clearing of al-Qaida from Shabwa and other provinces did not completely take place without fighting. Clashes erupted in some villages, usually with al-Qaida remnants that refused to play ball.

One former al-Qaida member told the AP that he and his comrades turned down an offer of money from the Emiratis. In response, he said, an Elite Force squad besieged them in the town of Hawta until they withdrew.

Overall, deals that took place during both the Obama and Trump administrations have secured al-Qaida militants' withdrawal from multiple major towns and cities that the group seized in 2015, the AP found. The earliest pact, in the spring of 2016, allowed thousands of al-Qaida fighters to pull out of Mukalla, Yemen's fifth-largest city and a major port on the Arabian Sea.

The militants were guaranteed a safe route out and allowed to keep weapons and cash looted from the city  up to $100 million by some estimates  according to five sources, including military, security and government officials.

"Coalition fighter jets and U.S. drones were idle," said a senior tribal leader who saw the convoy leaving. "I was wondering why they didn't strike them."

A tribal sheikh shuttled between AQAP leaders in Mukalla and Emirati officials in Aden to seal the deal, according to a former senior Yemeni commander.

Coalition-backed forces moved in two days later, announcing that hundreds of militants were killed and hailing the capture as "part of joint international efforts to defeat the terrorist organizations in Yemen."

No witnesses reported militants killed, however. "We woke up one day and al-Qaida had vanished without a fight," a local journalist said, speaking to AP on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals.

Soon after, another accord was struck for AQAP to pull out of six towns in the province of Abyan, including its capital, Zinjibar, according to five tribal mediators involved in the negotiations.

Again, the central provision was that the coalition and U.S. drones cease all bombings as AQAP pulled out with its weapons, the mediators said.

The agreement also included a provision that 10,000 local tribesmen  including 250 al-Qaida militants  be incorporated into the Security Belt, the UAE-backed Yemeni force in the area, four Yemeni officials said.

For nearly a week in May 2016, the militants departed in trucks. One of the mediators told the AP that he threw the last of the departing fighters a farewell dinner among his olive and lemon orchards when they stopped at his farm to pay their respects.

Another mediator, Tarek al-Fadhli, a former jihadi once trained by al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden, said he was in touch with officials at the U.S. Embassy and in the Saudi-led coalition, keeping them updated on the withdrawal.

"When the last one left, we called the coalition to say they are gone," he said.

___

'WE WILL UNITE WITH THE DEVIL'

To think of al-Qaida as an international terror group is to miss its other reality. For many Yemenis, it is simply another faction on the ground  a very effective one, well-armed and battle-hardened.

Its members are not shadowy strangers. Over the years, AQAP has woven itself into society by building ties with tribes, buying loyalties and marrying into major families.

Power players often see it as a useful tool.

Hadi's predecessor as Yemen's president, long-ruling strongman Ali Abdullah Saleh, set the model. He took billions in U.S. aid to combat al-Qaida after the 9/11 attacks, even as he recruited its militants to fight his rivals. Hadi's current vice president, Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar, a military chief for decades, also has been accused of enlisting jihadis.

In that light, it would almost be more startling if the militants were not involved against the Houthis, especially since al-Qaida militants are extremist Sunnis seeking the defeat of the Shiite rebels.

Al-Qaida militants are present on all major front lines fighting the rebels, Khaled Baterfi, a senior leader in the group, said in a previously unpublished 2015 interview with a local journalist obtained by the AP.

Last month, Baterfi said in a Q&A session distributed by al-Qaida that "those at the front lines for sure know of our participation, which is either actual fighting with our brothers in Yemen or supporting them with weapons."

Al-Qaida has reduced attacks against Hadi's and Emirati-linked forces because assailing them would benefit the Houthis, Baterfi said.

The branch is following guidance from al-Qaida's worldwide leader, Ayman al-Zawahri, to focus on fighting the rebels, another top AQAP member said in written answers to the AP.

In some places, militants join battles independently. But in many cases, militia commanders from the ultraconservative Salafi sect and the Muslim Brotherhood bring them directly into their ranks, where they benefit from coalition funding, the AP found. The Brotherhood's Yemen branch is a powerful hard-line Islamic political organization allied to Hadi.

Two of the four main coalition-backed commanders along the Red Sea coast are allies of al-Qaida, the al-Qaida member said. The coalition has made major advances on the coast, and is currently battling for the port of Hodeida.

Video footage shot by the AP in January 2017 showed a coalition-backed unit advancing on Mocha, part of an eventually successful campaign to recapture the Red Sea town.

Some of the unit's fighters were openly al-Qaida, wearing Afghan-style garb and carrying weapons with the group's logo. As they climbed behind machine guns in pick-up trucks, explosions from coalition airstrikes could be seen on the horizon.

An AQAP member interviewed in person by the AP in May viewed the video and confirmed the fighters belonged to his group. His affiliation is known from his past involvement in AQAP's rule over a southern city.

The impact of the intertwining of al-Qaida fighters with the coalition campaign is clearest in Taiz, Yemen's largest city and center of one of the war's longest running battles.

In the central highlands, Taiz is Yemen's cultural capital, a historic source of poets and writers and educated technocrats. In 2015, the Houthis laid siege to the city, occupying surrounding mountain ranges, sealing the entrances and shelling it mercilessly.

Taiz residents rose up to fight back, and coalition cash and weapons poured in  as did al-Qaida and Islamic State militants, all aimed at the same enemy.

One liberal activist took up arms alongside other men from his neighborhood to defend the city, and they found themselves fighting side by side with al-Qaida members.

"There is no filtering in the war. We are all together," said the activist, who spoke on condition of anonymity. He said commanders received weapons and other aid from the coalition and distributed it to all the fighters, including al-Qaida militants.

Abdel-Sattar al-Shamiri, a former adviser to Taiz's governor, said he recognized al-Qaida's presence from the start and told commanders not to recruit members.

"Their response was, 'We will unite with the devil in the face of Houthis,'" al-Shamiri said.

He said he warned coalition officials, who were "upset" but took no action.

"Taiz is in danger," al-Shamiri said. "We will get rid of the Houthis and we will be stuck with terrorist groups."

The activist and officials in the city said one of the main recruiters of al-Qaida fighters is Adnan Rouzek, a Salafi member tapped by Hadi to be a top military commander.

Rouzek's militia became notorious for kidnappings and street killings, with one online video showing its masked members shooting a kneeling, blindfolded man. Its videos feature al-Qaida-style anthems and banners.

Rouzek's top aide was a senior al-Qaida figure who escaped from a prison in Aden in 2008 along with other AQAP detainees, according to a Yemeni security official. Multiple photos seen by the AP show Rouzek with known al-Qaida commanders in recent years.

In November, Hadi named Rouzek head of the Taiz Operations Rooms, coordinating the military campaign, and top commander of a new fighting force, the 5th Presidential Protection Battalion. Hadi's Defense Ministry also gave Rouzek $12 million for a new offensive against the Houthis. The AP obtained copy of a receipt for the $12 million and a Rouzek aide confirmed the figure.

Rouzek denied any connection to militants, telling the AP that "there is no presence of al-Qaida" in Taiz.

Another coalition-backed warlord is on the U.S. list of designated terrorists due to his ties to al-Qaida.

The warlord, a Salafi known as Sheikh Aboul Abbas, has received millions of dollars from the coalition to distribute among anti-Houthi factions, according to his aide, Adel al-Ezzi. Despite being put on the U.S. list in October, the UAE continues to fund him, al-Ezzi told the AP.

The aide denied any links to militants and dismissed his boss's designation on the U.S. terror list. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that "al-Qaida has fought on all the front lines alongside all factions."

Right after the AP team spoke to him in Taiz, the team saw al-Ezzi meeting with a known senior al-Qaida figure, warmly hugging him outside the home of another former AQAP commander.

Aboul Abbas runs a coalition-funded militia controlling several districts in Taiz. A 2016 video produced by al-Qaida shows militants in black uniforms with al-Qaida's logo fighting alongside other militias in districts known to be under his control.

A former security official in Taiz said militants and Aboul Abbas' forces attacked security headquarters in 2017 and freed a number of al-Qaida suspects. The officer said he reported the attack to the coalition, only to learn soon after that it gave Aboul Abbas 40 more pick-up trucks.

"The more we warn, the more they are rewarded," the officer said. "Al-Qaida leaders have armored vehicles given to them by the coalition while security commanders don't have such vehicles."

___

Wilson contributed from Washington. Keath contributed from Beirut. AP correspondent Desmond Butler also contributed to this report.
Ultra Electronics tumbled on Tuesday as Kepler Cheuvreux downgraded its stance on the stock to 'hold' from 'buy' saying there is limited upside pending the chief executive officer's review.

The broker, which upped its price target to 1,720p from 1,650p as it assumes higher organic growth but lower free cash flow conversion, said first-half results on Monday were mixed but validated the view that organic growth will resume.

"Free cash flow, however, appears to be under some pressure, as capex and working capital could rise," it said.

Kepler added that the order book up 19% organically and sales growth of 1.3% are positive indicators that Ultra is finally returning to organic growth, six years after having entered an unprecedented period of organic decline.

CEO Simon Price is due to present his strategic review in March next year and Kepler said it expects additional cost reduction efforts and improved process implementation across the organisation to improve execution.

"We also see higher investments in core skills and capabilities. Improved discipline in M&A criteria is anticipated, as recent M&A has not delivered in line with plans," it said.

Analysts at JP Morgan slashed their target price on shares of Ferrexpo, on account of what they said was the iron ore producer's now higher cost base.

Indeed, at the half-year stage, Ferrexpo had posted a 31% jump in its unit costs which, in combination with the 21% fall in iron ore prices from peak to trough, had sent its shares tumbling 47% since March 2018, the investment bank said.

However, at spot iron ore and foreign exchange prices, the shares were now trading on a price-to-earnings multiple of 4.3 for 2018, falling to 3.9 for the following year.

On an EV/EBITDA basis meanwhile, the stock was on 3.3, falling to 2.9 in 2019 and JP Morgan estimated that iron ore and pellet premia would need to fall by a further 20% to $55 and $46 per tonne, respectively, in order for them to trade back at their 10-year average multiple of 5.1.

Furthermore, JP Morgan was calculating that the company's free cash flow yield would improve from roughly 15% in 2018 and 2019 to over 5% in 2020, as ore inventories were destocked.

Hence, and despite his target price reduction, analyst Dominic O'Kane upped his recommendation on the shares from 'neutral' to 'overweight', in light of the "attractive" risk-adjusted returns potential that he spied in them.

Ocado was downgraded to 'underweight' at Barclays from 'equal weight' as while the online grocery business has been de-risked, this does not guarantee "unlimited upside" for the share price.

Over the last nine months the company has been catapulted into the FTSE 100 after confounding many doubters by signing signing up four overseas retailers for its Smart Platform robot-operated warehouse system: France's Casino, Sobeys of Canada, Sweden's ICA and US giant Kroger the most impressive of all.

"After several years of unfulfilled promise, the willingness of third parties to pay for Ocados online grocery expertise has undermined a central bear argument on Ocado," Barclays analysts wrote.

Raising 340m of cash in the first half also minimises medium-term balance sheet concerns investors may have had.

"However, eliminating serious bear points does not mean unlimited upside for the share price and we think that a more reasonable valuation is now around 875p."

With the share price having risen to almost 1,100p, Barclays target implies around 20% downside.

Future licensing deals may boost the share price but "we struggle to foresee further deals approaching anywhere like the magnitude of the Kroger deal", which involves building 20 customer fulfilment centres, where execution and potential delays "could be problematic.
Ocado was downgraded to 'underweight' at Barclays from 'equal weight' as while the online grocery business has been de-risked, this does not guarantee "unlimited upside" for the share price.

Over the last nine months the company has been catapulted into the FTSE 100 after confounding many doubters by signing signing up four overseas retailers for its Smart Platform robot-operated warehouse system: France's Casino, Sobeys of Canada, Sweden's ICA and US giant Kroger the most impressive of all.

"After several years of unfulfilled promise, the willingness of third parties to pay for Ocados online grocery expertise has undermined a central bear argument on Ocado," Barclays analysts wrote.

Raising 340m of cash in the first half also minimises medium-term balance sheet concerns investors may have had.

"However, eliminating serious bear points does not mean unlimited upside for the share price and we think that a more reasonable valuation is now around 875p."

With the share price having risen to almost 1,100p, Barclays target implies around 20% downside.

Ascribing a value to Ocado is "art not science", the analysts declared, as even with multiple deals signed, putting a value on them implies many assumptions that can be debated at length, with fairly minor tweaks to Barclays' assumptions liable to produce very different results  "including valuations that are lower than our new price target but also valuations that imply upside from the current share price".

Future licensing deals may boost the share price but "we struggle to foresee further deals approaching anywhere like the magnitude of the Kroger deal", which involves building 20 customer fulfilment centres.

Having opened four CFCs in its home market in 18 years, Ocado must now work on 23 in the coming few years  spread thousands of miles apart. Flawless execution would be impressive  any delays could be problematic, the analysts said.
Down around 14% since the start of the year and with investors keen to hear more details about management's plans for a de-merger of its UK and European business, Prudential 's half-year results look the ones to watch on Wednesday.

The first six months of 2018 are likely to have been fairly tough for the FTSE 100 group, though with March's plan to spin off the European savings and investment businesses as M&G Prudential, leaving an international insurance group focused on Asia, the US and Africa, with both businesses seen as potential beneficiaries of positive long-term trends, the shares are still on many investors' watch lists.

Deutsche Bank sees the shares as having been held back by "general market nervousness as well as a range of bottom-up issues", including the impact of regulatory and tax changes on the group's US capital ratio, declining HK sales and "a broader sense that Prudential will struggle to deliver much profits growth over the next two years" thanks to FX and exceptional items.

The German bank's analysts expected these numbers as likely to appear "quite drab", with flat sales growth in Asia and the US, currency headwinds and flat profits year-on-year, but think the underlying growth trends are intact and with forex moving more in the company's favour "recommend buying ahead of the results".

Analysts at UBS said the result is "likely to be challenging" given significant currency headwinds on US and Asia earnings and weak sales trends in Hong Kong, which represents 45% of overall Asia sales and 65% of Asia new business profit. The forecast 2.4bn in operating profit, operating EPS of 73p and interim dividend of 15.7p per share, equal to one-third the last year's total dividend.

USB will be looking for more detail on the financials and timing of the M&G spinoff and reassurance around the US capital position given new proposals to change regulatory capital standards for variable annuities.

"The decision to split Prudential into two companies with different goals seems a good one on first glance, but has left us with a few questions," said broker Hargreaves Lansdown. "The first business is a life insurer targeting the US, as well as the growing middle classes in Asia. It should be a solid foundation for rapid growth.

"With the second, a mature UK/European life insurer and asset management company, youd expect slower growth, but with potential for a consistent dividend. Management should be able to focus on the separate aims of each of the businesses."

Wednesday will see a barrage of other large and mid-cap companies reporting results, including Bellway, Glencore, Hastings, Morgan Sindall, Paddy Power Betfair, Pagegroup, Spirax-Sarco and TI Fluid Systems.

Glencore's production results at the end of last month were slightly ahead of expectations, with full year volume guidance left largely unchanged, apart from coal and lead being lowered. Earlier in the month the company unveiled a share buyback programme of up to $1bn to run over the rest of the year, which has helped put a floor under shares that had fallen around 19% since the start of the year amid a spate of legal battles and an investigation launched by US authorities into the company's business in Africa.

Deutsche Bank first-half EBITDA forecast of $8.5bn is unchanged with lower sales offset by higher production volumes across the rest of the business, with analysts not expecting any material changes to guidance for capex and unit cost.

The last update from Bellway's showed that trading continues to progress well with guidance left unchanged.

While the housebuilder's directors mentioned that trading conditions for higher priced properties was more challenging, broker Numis said Bellways modest exposure to this part of the market and managements inherent conservatism, "makes us believe that the risk to estimates lies on the upside for 2018/19" and that the Bellway is "undervalued relative to its peers and prospects".

Numis also saw good scope for recovery in Hastings shares if the insurer reports robust interim results. Analysts forecast first-half PBT to be broadly flat on the prior year with premium income growth offset by cost growth and the impact of adverse weather in the first quarter.

"The early part of this year was the first time as a listed company that Hastings had experienced a softening rate environment. It will therefore be interesting to see how resilient the companys performance has been during this period. We expect growth in policy numbers to have slowed to 8%, down from 12% in 2017, reflecting more difficult market conditions, However, given previous guidance we assume underwriting margins have been broadly maintained, with a combined ratio forecast of 88% and a calendar year loss ratio of 74.9%."

Broker Peel Hunt forecast a 6% cut to the interim dividend to 3.8p per share as Hastings first-half PBT drops 26% to 51m, with EBITDA down 15% to 73.8m. This is largely driven by the impact of the poor weather during the first quarter and the balance largely explained by lower underwriting results on the back of higher expenses and lower profit commissions.

Analysts assumed a 97.6% CoR on a Hastings basis including 5%-points of bad weather impact vs 88.9% during the same period last year and expect an overall EBITDA of 10m.

With policy volumes sees declining 2% from year end and up 5% year-on-year as the company reacts to a softer market environment at the beginning of the year, Peel Hunt said, "It will be interesting to hear how HSTGs rates have developed relative to the claims inflation across its portfolio and what the outlook is for rates in the second half of the year; particularly after suggestions from both [Direct Line] and Sabre that they were likely to increase rates and track rising claims inflation during H2 2018."

Economic data to watch on Wednesday includes Chinese trade figures out early in the morning along with a statement from Australia's central bank chief, with no major UK reports expected. US mortgage figures and oil inventories are due in the afternoon.

Wednesday 08 August

INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC ANNOUNCEMENTS

Crude Oil Inventories (US) (15:30)

MBA Mortgage Applications (US) (12:00)

INTERIMS

Glencore, Hastings Group Holdings, Hill & Smith Holdings, Mereo Biopharma Group, Morgan Sindall Group, Paddy Power Betfair, Pagegroup, Prudential, Sampo OYJ, Secure Trust Bank, Share plc, Societatea Nationala De Gaze Naturale Romgaz S.A. GDR (Reg S), Spirax-Sarco Engineering, Stock Spirits Group , TI Fluid Systems

TRADING ANNOUNCEMENTS

Mereo Biopharma Group, SCS Group, TUI AG Reg Shs (DI), UDG Healthcare Public Limited Company

GMS

Puma VCT 9

SPECIAL DIVIDEND PAYMENT DATE

M Winkworth

AGMS

Bushveld Minerals Limited, Footasylum, Investec, Majestic Wine, Puma Vct 11, Puma VCT 12 , Puma VCT 9, TechFinancials (DI), Tongaat-Hulett Ltd.

FINAL DIVIDEND PAYMENT DATE

F&C Global Smaller Companies, JPMorgan Japan Smaller Companies Trust, Ventus 2 VCT, Ventus 2 VCT 'C' Shares, Ventus VCT, Ventus VCT 'C' Shares

QUARTERLY PAYMENT DATE

British American Tobacco, JPMorgan Asian Investment Trust
London stocks were called to rise at the open on Tuesday, taking their cue from positive sessions in the US and Asia, although Brexit concerns and worries about escalating trade tensions between the US and China were expected to keep a cap on gains

The FTSE 100 was set to open up 17 points at 7,681.

CMC Markets analyst David Madden said: "The trade tensions between the US and China still dominate the headlines. President Trump is confident he is doing the right course of action as the Chinse stock market has suffered so much in recent months, it is no longer the second-largest in the world. Washington DC and Beijing have been upping the ante recently, and it seems that neither side wants to back down, so the story is likely to hang over the markets.

"Sterling has gone from bad to worse in the past few days. The Bank of England had a dovish hike on Thursday, Mark Carney, the BoE governor, talked down the pound down on Friday as he warned about the possibility of a no-deal Brexit. Sterling sold-off heavily yesterday after Secretary of international trade Liam Fox announced there is a 60-40 likelihood of the UK leaving the EU without a trade deal. Traders are terrified about the possibility of a no-deal Brexit. The more we hear the phrase no-deal Brexit, the more likely the pound will be kept under the cosh. The British side might give off the impression off they would be content without a deal in order to force Brussels hand, and the pound could be in for a rocky ride in the near-term."

On the data front, Halifax house prices for July are at 0830 BST.

In corporate news, Hargreaves Lansdown rewarded shareholders with a 38% hike in its dividend as the pensions and investments provider topped 1m active clients in the 12 months to 30 June. Total assets under administration grew 16% over the year to 91.6bn, up from 88.8bn in the final quarter, as a net 7.6bn of new business inflows was augmented by 5.9m of asset market growth.

Interim operating profit at Intercontinental Hotels Group rose to $406m from $370m with RevPAR up 3.7% led by Greater China, where double digit growth in both RevPAR and net system size, as well as record signings, reflected the firm's efforts to focus on that market.

GlaxoSmithKline announced that Iain Mackay has been appointed its next chief financial officer, and as an executive director to the board, with both positions starting on 14 January next year.

The FTSE 100 drug maker said Mackay was joining it from HSBC, where he had been group finance director for the last eight years. GSK had announced in May that it existing CFO, Simon Dingemans, was retiring from the firm in May 2019.
Water treatment and filtration solutions provider Amiad Water Systems announced on Tuesday that it provided its water filtration solutions for the Tuas Desalination Plant in Singapore, which was launched on 28 June as the country's third desalination plant.

The AIM-traded company said it was appointed by HSL Constructor, the project's construction contractor, and Tedagua Singapore, which designed the plant, through a competitive bid process to supply ultrafiltration (UF) and reverse osmosis (RO) membrane protection solutions.

It said Singapore's National Water Agency, PUB, had identified seawater desalination as a solution to the country's increasing water demand, which was expected to double by 2060.

The Tuas Desalination Plant, owned and operated by PUB, could produce 136,000 cubic metres of water per day - equivalent to 54 Olympic-size swimming pools - through the treatment of seawater by more than 14,000 RO membranes.

It was the first desalination plant in Singapore to use advanced pre-treatment technology, which Amiad described as a combination of dissolved air-floatation and ultra-filtration.

Amiad said it provided a total of 224 filters for the Tuas Desalination Plant, consisting of 22 units of 4 x 10" Super Galaxy filters for UF membrane protection and 34 units of 4 x 10" Super Galaxy filters for RO membrane protection.

The filters treat 13,900m3 of water per hour for UF membrane protection and 12,800m3 per hour for RO membrane protection.

We are delighted to have been a part of this project to provide Singapore with its third desalination plant, said Amiad chief executive officer Dori Ivzori.

It is vital that we, as a society, use all of the means at our disposal to meet the increasing demand for fresh water and we congratulate the Singapore government on their success in driving the development of desalination in the country.

We thank HSL and Tedagua for choosing Amiad for this important project and we hope to continue to work together on similar projects going forward.
Dominos Pizza Group issued its interim results for the 26 weeks ended 1 July on Tuesday, reporting a 12.3% year-on-year improvement in group system sales to 616.6m.

The FTSE 250 company, which holds the master franchise to the American takeaway brand in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Luxembourg, as well as minority interests in the franchises for Iceland, Norway and Sweden, said growth in the period had been driven by its UK operations, with its full-year outlook confirmed.

UK system sales were up 8.3%, with 22 new stores opened in the period, and 5.9% like-for-like growth reported.

Republic of Ireland sales were ahead 2.5%.

Dominos Pizza Group also reported strong local currency international growth, with Switzerland up 13.0%, Iceland ahead 5.5%, Domino's Norway surging 180.5%, and Sweden rising 56.4%.

Underlying profit before tax rose 2.5% year-on-year to 45.7m, with underlying basic earnings per share up 6.8% to 7.8p.

On a statutory basis, profit before tax was down 9.7% to 41.7m, with basic earnings per share falling 6.5% to 7.2p.

Statutory revenue was 22.6% higher at 259.1m.

Non-underlying expenses of 4.0m were reported, which related to merger and acquisition integration, and IT and supply chain transformation cash outflow, the board said.

Net debt stood at 182.1m, with the firms net debt-to-last 12 months EBITDA being 1.62x at period end.

The board declared an interim dividend of 4.05p, up 8.0% year-on-year, and following 38.9m of share purchases in the first half.

On the strategic front, Dominos Pizza Group said it made a number of digital investments to support franchisee efficiency and drive customer engagement during the period, with GPS technology now in 603 UK and Republic of Ireland stores.

It said that was leading to significant labour efficiencies, with first half franchisee store profitability up 5.3%.

The firm was also planning investment in new e-commerce and app platforms, which it said would improve the customer experience further.

Dominos Pizza Group also said it had a strong operational focus in its acquired businesses, with volume-driven growth up and staff turnover down in London.

In its international acquired businesses, the firm said labour cost issues affected the first half, with actions taken now coming into effect.

The companys Warrington Supply Chain Centre was now operational, with production ramped to 130 stores.

Full year underlying profit before tax was expected to be in line with current market expectations, the board claimed.

Around 60 new UK stores were planned for 2018, with the company remaining uncertain on the timing of several of them, and an unchanged long term target of 1,600 new stores.

Total group capital expenditure for the year would be around 30m, the board said, with its 50m share purchase programme being completed.

It's been another good trading period for Domino's, said chief executive officer David Wild.

In the UK, despite continued consumer uncertainty, we've achieved further like-for-like growth by maintaining our clear focus on product, service and value for customers.

Our ongoing investments in supply chain infrastructure and our IT platform will support future growth and customer engagement.

Wild said Domino's was proud to be one of the most successful franchise businesses in the UK, adding that it would continue to work with its franchisee partners to promote the brand and the strength of the system.

Whilst our international businesses continue to make good progress with customers and sales, it has taken us some time to refine the operating model and cost base at store level, particularly in Norway.

We are confident that the changes we have made will result in a better performance in the second half, and believe that these businesses offer significant long term growth potential as we export our expertise in digital, supply chain and franchisee management.

The companys board expected that full year underlying profit before tax would be in line with current market expectations, Wild added.

Our confidence in the future is underlined by continued growth in the dividend, and our ongoing investment in our own shares through the buyback programme.




Washington: US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that sanctions reimposed on Iran were the "most biting ever" as he warned other countries from doing business with Tehran.





"The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level," he wrote in an early morning tweet.





"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less."





The sanctions reimposed on Tuesday -- targeting access to US banknotes and key industries such as cars and carpets -- were unlikely to cause immediate economic turmoil.





Iran's markets were actually relatively buoyant, with the rial strengthening by 20 percent since Sunday after the government relaxed foreign exchange rules and allowed unlimited, tax-free gold and currency imports.





But a second tranche coming into effect on November 5 covering Iran's vital oil sector, could be far more damaging -- even if several key customers such as China, India and Turkey have refused to significantly cut their purchases.





Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.




Britain is making plans to seek the extradition from Russia of two suspects identified as the perpetrators of the Salisbury poisonings. Scotland Yard detectives are understood to be confident that they have identified the would-be assassins and an extradition request is part of the plan to renew pressure on the Kremlin over the nerve agent attack. - The Times

Donald Trumps escalating trade war with China and the EU is poised to put an end to the nearly decade-long Bull Run in equity markets, investors were warned today as HSBC became the latest global company to admit fears over tariffs. The wealth management arm of the Swiss investment bank UBS said the East-West conflict has reached a tipping point and urged action by its clients. - Telegraph

Britains hot summer has masked the weakness of consumer demand by prompting the sharpest monthly growth in food spending in five years, the latest snapshot of the high street has shown. The British Retail Consortium (BRC) said the main beneficiaries of the long, dry spell were supermarkets and pubs as well as shops selling fans and other cooling equipment, but that other parts of the sector suffered. - Guardian

Moderate Labour MPs have been holding secret meetings in a luxury farmhouse to plot a takeover of the party, it was claimed last night. Around 12 MPs are said to have met at the Sussex holiday estate at least twice to plan the fightback. - Daily Mail

A hard Brexit would pose a risk to public safety, police leaders have warned in a leaked letter. Police and crime commissioners called on Sajid Javid, the home secretary, to draft contingency plans for a no-deal Brexit immediately. - The Times

The founders of Fever-Tree are set to toast a 73m payday, after unveiling plans to sell another tranche of shares in the mixer maker. Both Charles Rolls, non-executive deputy chairman, and Tim Warrillow, chief executive, plan to sell around 1 million shares each, leaving them will stakes of 8pc and 4.7pc respectively. - Telegraph

The Insolvency Service is to start interviewing former directors of the collapsed government contractor Carillion as it steps up an investigation into one of the biggest corporate failures in recent British history. Nearly seven months after Carillion entered liquidation, the government agency said it had finished transferring 278 contracts to new suppliers as part of a painstaking process designed to ensure smooth continuity of public services. - Guardian

Food manufacturers are fighting back against Aldi, accusing it of producing knock-offs of their products. The German discounter was labelled a 'parasite' after it was found selling a range of products almost identical to those made by smaller firms. - Daily Mail

A funding squeeze in the NHS led one of Britains biggest private hospital companies to issue a profit warning yesterday, sending its shares tumbling below their float price. Spire Healthcare said that underlying earnings this year were expected to be materially lower than 2017, blaming fewer NHS referrals and higher investment costs. - The Times

Earth may be on a runaway trajectory towards a hothouse climate which will see huge swathes of the planet become uninhabitable and 200 ft sea level rises, an international team of scientists has warned. A new review found that even if targets to cap global warming at 2C are met, it may already be too late because of a domino effect of other factors such as the ongoing reduction in Arctic sea ice and the deforestation of the Amazon rainforest. - Telegraph

Plumes of smoke towered over flame-engulfed mountains in northern California on Monday as firefighters grappled with the largest wildfire in state history. At a community hall in a small farming community 121 miles north-east of San Francisco, Renato Lira, an American Red Cross disaster services worker, looked through photos on his phone of the fire he had just driven through to set up an evacuation center. As he flicked, his screen turned red. - Guardian

Space firms have hailed an investment boom as they prepare to launch the first satellites from UK soil. Industry figures say cash has started to flow in after a spaceport in the Scottish Highlands was announced. It is one of several programmes aimed at making Britain a world-leading hub for low-orbit launches, adding to its already-strong reputation for building and managing satellites. - Daily Mail

China is ready to fight a long trade war with the United States, its state media has said, as the worlds largest economies brace for fallout from their fierce dispute. Editorials in Chinese newspapers have warned President Trump, who has declared that tariffs are working big time, that American businesses could collapse and its farms risk closure if the bitter row intensified. - The Times

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has blasted as "psychological warfare" a wave of US sanctions that were reimposed on the country on Tuesday. The United States brought back into effect harsh penalties that had been lifted under a historic, multi-party nuclear agreement that President Donald Trump abandoned in May. - Telegraph

Rescuers in Lombok are still pulling people out alive from the rubble two days after a deadly earthquake struck the Indonesian island, causing widespread damage and panic. The 6.9-magnitude quake that struck early on Sunday evening killed 98 people, injured more than 236 others, and destroyed thousands of homes. - Guardian

An electronics and homeware chain run by the owners of House of Fraser has gone bust. Brookstone, a chain bought by Sanpower in 2014 at the same time as it paid 480m for House of Fraser, has filed for bankruptcy in the US. It will now close all 101 shopping centre stores, with its 35 airport shops and website staying open for business. - Daily Mail
London's FTSE 100 was up 1% to 7,743.11 in afternoon trade on Tuesday, underpinned by strength in the mining sector.

Standard Life Aberdeen was the standout gainer despite saying that profits fell in the first half, as investors cheered the early start of a buyback programme.

Miners racked up strong gains as copper prices rose, with Anglo American, Glencore, BHP Billiton and Antofagasta all firmer.

AstraZeneca was on the front foot as BMO Capital Markets said that the chief financial officer's commentary during investor meetings last week suggested the company could be on the verge of the steepest growth trajectory in major biopharma. BMO said the CFO indicated revenue of around $40-41bn in 2023 was still a possibility.

BMO said AZN remains its top pick.

Going the other way, Intertek slumped even as it posted a rise in first half-profit thanks to a strong performance from its products divisions and hiked its dividend, as the shares had a strong run into the results.

Hargreaves Lansdown was also weaker as it rewarded shareholders with a bumper special dividend and said active clients for the year topped 1m, but annual numbers came in slightly short of expectations.

InterContinental Hotels Group was on the back foot despite posting a 9.7% jump in operating profit that topped the consensus estimate of $397.7m.

Ocado retreated as Barclays downgraded the stock to 'underweight' from 'equalweight', citing the share price rise to almost 1,100p. The bank hiked its price target to 875p from 265p but said this implies around 20% downside.

FTSE 100 - Risers

Standard Life Aberdeen (SLA) 324.30p 5.77%

Anglo American (AAL) 1,739.00p 3.64%

Glencore (GLEN) 324.90p 3.47%

BHP Billiton (BLT) 1,742.20p 3.27%

Antofagasta (ANTO) 967.00p 2.59%

AstraZeneca (AZN) 5,971.00p 2.58%

Rio Tinto (RIO) 4,021.50p 2.51%

Fresnillo (FRES) 1,003.50p 2.34%

Burberry Group (BRBY) 2,173.00p 2.11%

WPP (WPP) 1,208.50p 2.11%

FTSE 100 - Fallers

Intertek Group (ITRK) 5,418.00p -7.70%

Hargreaves Lansdown (HL.) 2,062.00p -2.64%

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) 4,628.00p -2.55%

Croda International (CRDA) 5,158.00p -1.38%

Ocado Group (OCDO) 1,070.00p -0.74%

Smurfit Kappa Group (SKG) 3,242.00p -0.61%

Royal Mail (RMG) 456.03p -0.56%

Admiral Group (ADM) 1,965.50p -0.43%

Next (NXT) 5,688.00p -0.14%

Lloyds Banking Group (LLOY) 62.49p -0.12%
Commodity-related stocks paced gains on Tuesday following the release of figures overnight showing that China's foreign exchange reserves didn't jump last month.

According to the People's Bank of China, the country's foreign exchange reserves had edged higher by just $6.0bn in June to reach $3.118trn.

That, Jasper Lawler at LCG said, suggested China was "neither starting or stopping a currency war", with the first bit at least, in itself arguably a 'positive' for markets, growth prospects for the Asian giant and by extension for miners too.

In fact, the figures came close on the heels of Beijing's move last Friday to stem weakness in the country's currency, the yuan, by raising the cost for speculators to 'short' it.

Meanwhile, the country's Politburo had announced measures to help prop-up growth in the short-term. Together with strong corporate earnings in the second quarter that was helping to offset trade concerns, JP Morgan strategists had said on Monday.

Indeed, and as analysts at Capital Economics pointed out, highlighting the relative movements between the yuan's value on and offshore, it appeared that capital outflows had picked-up going into August, which would likely prompt Beijing to intervene more forcefully.

Shares in the oil patch were also wanted on Tuesday, amid big gains for the majors, particularly BP.

Contrary to the trend evident in the broader sector, the company's cash breakevens were continuing to trend in the right direction, retreating from $64 per barrel in the first half 2017 to $54 a barrel this time around, also according to JP Morgan.

"Led by solid upstream execution and better than expected capital efficiency as capex in 2018 is guided lower to $15bn. As highlighted in our analysis of the BHP US onshore acquisition advanced L-48 know-how drives a positive risk/reward in an industrial/fiscal context," the investment bank's analysts told clients.

In Pharma, it was Astra Zeneca that did best, as analysts at BMO reiterated the shares as their 'top pick' in the sector with a $45.0 target on the company's ADRs.

"CFO's commentary during investor meetings last week suggest AZ could be on the verge of the steepest growth trajectory in major Biopharma. CFO indicated revenue of ~$40-41Bn in 2023 was still a possibility (BMO and Street at $35-36Bn), and identified several underappreciated opportunities (e.g., Roxadustat)."

Top performing sectors so far today

Mining 18,164.69 +3.12%

Industrial Metals & Mining 4,941.69 +2.13%

Oil Equipment, Services & Distribution 14,182.75 +2.04%

Oil & Gas Producers 9,644.32 +1.63%

Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology 14,944.76 +1.37%

Bottom performing sectors so far today

Automobiles & Parts 10,110.01 -0.79%

Industrial Engineering 13,372.30 -0.78%

Support Services 8,318.24 -0.59%

Chemicals 16,735.60 -0.50%

Industrial Transportation 3,116.50 -0.25%
Sharon Blackwell Schmidt was one of the 250 students to receive their degree during University of North Georgias (UNG) summer commencement ceremony on Aug. 3.

Schmidt started her undergraduate work at UNG at age 26 and became a parent during that time. Five and a half years after first enrolling, Schmidt made sure she finished her degree as an example to her 4-year-old son, Liam.

"I had a lot of friends and family that were worried I wouldn't finish school after my son was born," Schmidt said. "I've persevered and I've made it through."

Earning a degree is part of a larger dream Schmidt has held since childhood: becoming a marine biologist. After starting college as an international affairs major, she switched to biology.

Schmidt, who is from Dahlonega, Georgia, and has also lived in White County, thought she would transfer to a larger school after a year in biology at UNG. With professors like Dr. Nancy Dalman, who is head of the biology department, and a strong supplemental instruction system, she quickly realized she didn't need to go anywhere else.

"I realized I wouldn't get the quality and the level of attention somewhere else," Schmidt said.

She took a tropical reef ecology course with Dalman in Belize in 2016. She also worked in the Shellfish Research Lab for an internship in Savannah, Georgia, during summer 2017, seeking to help revive Georgia's oyster industry. This summer she was part of a group from UNG digging for fossils near Brunswick, Georgia.

Schmidt expressed gratitude for being part of such adventurous research, including her Brunswick work and the chance to present her oyster research at the Tri-Beta National Conference in Monterey Bay, California. She also presented her research at UNG's annual Research Conference in March. A McNair scholarship and a National Science Foundation S-STEM scholarship provided funding for her research and the chance to present it.

"She's taken advantage of every opportunity she can," Dalman said. "She's done great with all of it."

Schmidt was also a lab teacher's assistant (TA), earning an award this spring as the biology department's top student TA, and offered free biology tutoring to other students. She also served as treasurer for UNG's chapter of Tri-Beta, a biology honor society. Even with so much on Schmidt's plate, Dalman saw her excel in whatever she did.

"She's really thorough and organized and responsible," Dalman said. "I knew if I asked her to do something, it would get done."

In addition to the resources at her disposal, the relationships were an integral part of Schmidt's time at UNG.

"I'm not sure that I would have felt as welcomed and accepted anywhere else as I did here," she said. "I've made a lot of great friends that I know I'll stay in contact with years down the road."

As she prepares to apply to graduate schools for spring or fall 2019, Schmidt's focus is coral reef conservation. The efforts at preserving reefs in Belize inspired her.

"It's unfortunate that even in protected areas they're continuing to decline," Schmidt said.

She hasn't yet decided where she will continue her studies, though Dalman said Schmidt has a strong enough body of work to skip a master's degree and jump right into doctorate work.

Schmidt is grateful to her husband, Paul, for his support throughout her time at UNG, as well as the efforts of her parents, grandmother and mother-in-law in helping her make it to this point.

UNG alumnus Dr. Stephen Pruitt, president of the Southern Regional Education board, was the keynote speaker at the Aug. 3 commencement in the Convocation Center on UNG's Dahlonega Campus. He encouraged the graduates to remember how important UNG has been to them.

"What North Georgia did for me was help me realize I always had a seat at the big table," Pruitt said.

Separate commissioning ceremonies were held earlier Aug. 3 for 11 members of the Corps of Cadets entering the armed forces as second lieutenants.
Politicians are often in the spotlight and the media is quick to capture their every move. People across the internet seem to be delighted when blunders and mishaps are screened across the world. Something about their loss of dignity seems to increase the humor factor. Often, the photos are then mocked up into memes that appear repeatedly. If they grow old, there's usually some politician somewhere, experiencing an embarrassing mishap to keep new content coming. Here are seven of the top embarrassing moments for politicians and in some cases, the citizens of their country.

1) President Robert Mugabe's red carpet fall

Former president Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe fell down as he stepped off the stairs and onto the red carpet. At the time, in 2015, The Associated Press managed to capture images and video. CBS reported that the embarrassing event was completely denied. Local press were told to delete the images and Information Minister Jonathan Moyo insisted he managed to save himself. Nevertheless, many memes arose from the incident. Even after three years, they still emerge to make a point on Twitter.

Zimbabwes 90 Year Old President Robert Mugabe Falls Down Stairs, Becomes Twitter Meme http://t.co/yoOtELUp7b pic.twitter.com/16RpO2qukU  Wesbo (@Wesbo) February 9, 2015

2) George Bush blooper - had s*x

George Bush made some famous bloopers during his days in political office.

One was rehashed across YouTube for years. People, How Stuff Works, explained what happened. He was speaking during a 1988 campaign and talked about serving as vice-president to Ronald Reagan. In his speech, he said, "For seven and a half years I've worked alongside President Reagan. We've had triumphs. Made some mistakes.

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We've had some s*x...uh..setbacks."

George Bush 20-year-old blooper - has sex with Reagan - "For seven and a half years I've worked alongside President Reagan. We've had triumphs. Made some mistakes. We've had some sex . . . uh . . . setbacks. Still lol. pic.twitter.com/tTHSrmAOim  Jane Flowers (@zimkwacha) August 7, 2018

3) Trump meets the Queen

Closer to modern times, most of the global population will recall how Donald Trump made his blunder by walking ahead of the Queen.

His enemies were thrilled and slammed him on every possible social media outlet. Walking ahead of the queen is considered to be a huge no-no in terms of etiquette. While Donald Trump did not seem as embarrassed as his detractors, he certainly looked bemused and confused at one point.

Then he walks ahead of her, no one should turn their back on The Queen. He is so low class. pic.twitter.com/yzj6gb0Qid  Chrissie (@Chrissi29147119) August 5, 2018

4) Boris Johnson hair and wardrobe malfunctions

Boris Johnson is taking a lot of flak on social media right now. He was thoroughly angry with Theresa May's soft approach to Brexit and resigned from his rather feeble attempt as Foreign Secretary. He upset everyone by criticizing Muslims.

Al-Jazeera noted that people are enraged by his comments in an opinion piece published in the Daily Telegraph this week. Al-Jazeera wrote that he said, "Muslim women wearing the veils look like "letter boxes" and compared them to "bank robbers." Thinking that complaining how other people looked was a bit beyond the pale for Johnson, one Twitter user posted up photos of Boris' hair and rumpled clothing. He certainly looks like he could use a makeover to fix his wardrobe malfunction. Does this guy even own a mirror?

Just look at the state of Boris Johnson , no really, look!. Hes overweight, hair looks like it belongs inside a mangey old dog brush & hes real ugly. He cant seriously be judging how other people look, is he for real?. #ToriesOut pic.twitter.com/ptoF3PQIX9  kerry Hooper (@hewitson10) August 6, 2018

5) Barack Obama gets a little too flirty on TV

Barack Obama seemed to embarrass another dignitary as he came across a bit overly flirty in front of the cameras.

Really, Barack, keep it for the after-party! It was on the occasion of a three-day tour of Southeast Asia. He met Thai prime minister, Yingluck Shinawatra and made her blush. She sure is a pretty woman, though.

OBAMA gets a little flirty with fine looking Thai prime minister, Yingluck Shinawatra. SEE HER BLUSHING SHA.. lol pic.twitter.com/UWTsSFlX  Udeytry Media (@udeytrymedia) November 20, 2012

In 2012, Daily Mail noted that he also went to Myanmar, where he was greeted by democracy activist Aung San Suu Kyi, where he continued his "hands-on" approach to diplomacy.

.@AP Photo: Obama embraces, kisses #Myanmar's opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi during a news conference at her home pic.twitter.com/tpvxFMGCdM  Andrew Peng (@TheAPJournalist) November 14, 2014

6) President Ford slips and falls in Austria

In 1975, then-president Ford did a full-on fall down the stairs when he arrived in Vienna, Austria.

He landed on his knees next to the red carpet in full view of all the dignitaries. In fact, The University of Texas at Austin notes that "Ford often found himself portrayed as clumsy and inept in the press. "Saturday Night Live" staged weekly skits of cast member Chevy Chase playing the president as a blundering, gawky leader."

President Gerald Ford falls down the steps of Air Force One upon arrival in Vienna Austria 1975 More pics: https://t.co/D3C0cmAWMP pic.twitter.com/yHMSuuEfiN  History Lovers Club (@historylvrsclub) June 5, 2018

7) The selfie Obama took at Mandela's funeral

Internation Nelson Mandela day saw Barack Obama fly to South Africa to give a speech at his Centennial Anniversary. It went off without any embarrassing moments, but Obama made the headlines for all the wrong reasons at Mandela's funeral in 2013.

Washington Times noted that the "image was snapped with British Prime Minister David Cameron and Danish Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt." Later, it was reported as taken out of context, but still, it looked like a big gaffe at the solemn affair. Many Americans were embarrassed by the photo.

What do think of these embarrassing moments by leading politicians? Do you think they should be more careful in front of the cameras, or should they just act casual, like it happens to everyone?
UMIDIGI announced a discount on its One series devices. It later published a side-by-side with the Huawei Honor 10 phone. The Chinese brand announced on August 6 a discount and sale of the One series that includes coupons for eligible customers. According to the company, the global sale will last for a week. Specifically, the sale will start on August 6 and conclude on August 12. After orders are placed, shipments will take typically one to three weeks. The asking price for the UMIDIGI One is now available to purchase at $139.99. The One Pro, which serves as the flagship, has an asking price is $169.99.

UMIDIGI reveals what is in the box with its unpacking video

The video unveiled on August 7 showcases both UMIDIGI devices. Also, the footage lasts for one minute and three seconds. In the box, there are several accessories that come with these devices. It is convenient for UMIDIGI to include cases for these beautifully-finished smartphones.

UMIDIGI Z2 Pro Gets Pre-Order Date, Luxury Ceramic Edition Unboxed https://t.co/6yf86TZdZ8 pic.twitter.com/Zz1Uutz8ji  Android Headlines (@Androidheadline) July 26, 2018

The UMIDIGI has a ceramic color finish. The power button is featured on the side of the device and includes on the same side as the fingerprint scanner. What is included in the box? The UMIDIGI phone, a screen protector, a phone case, a power adapter, a type-c cable, and a SIM tray ejector tool.

Some of the items included in the box are sold separately for other cell phone brands. UMIDIGI is going the extra mile to really generate interest and excitement around their devices.

Contest and giveaway details for the UMIDIGI device

It is not the first time the brand has done a giveaway. It has run similar campaigns with the UMIDIGI Z2 Pro and given away a number of devices.

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The brand is hoping to create buzz, and generate substantial revenues with its latest devices. UMIDIGI will randomly generate 10 winners of the UMIDIGI One giveaway.

As reported by the Shenzhen-based company, the number of people participating in this contest giveaway has set a new record. The company's contest page has accumulated 730,000 views and it is a new milestone for UMIDIGI.

For more information on the content, please visit the company page for additional details.

Takeaways and conclusions

It will be interesting to see how many units will be sold, and if the brand will expand to other markets. In the head-to-head comparison between the UMIDIGI One Pro and the Huawei Honor 10, UMIDIGI came up short with a score of 55 stars. The Huawei device totaled 56 stars, which was compared in a number of categories. Finally, UMIDIGI originally listed the device at $199.99 but has dropped the price to $139.99.
This past March, Andy Cohen was caught in one of the worst snowstorms of the year.

The Crozet, Virginia, native, who graduated in May with a mechanical engineering degree from Virginia Tech, was on his way back to Blacksburg from touring graduate schools when his flight from Charlotte to Roanoke was canceled.

He and several other strangers, all anxious to get home, decided to rent a car together  which Cohen says was mistake number one. Mistake number two was deciding to take an alternate route.

At first, everything was fine, the route was relatively clear. Then the snow started accumulating and accumulating and accumulating, and eventually we were driving in tracks through five inches of snow, so we decided to turn around. That was mistake number three, Cohen said, laughing.

Ultimately, in an attempt to reverse their course, the group ended up stranded near Carroll County. After exhausting all options to free the car from the snow and deeming the conditions too dangerous to travel in, Floyd County Rescue Squad housed the five individuals overnight at their station, in addition to providing them with showers and food.

Coincidently, Cohen was a part of a biomedical design organization called Bioactivity. One of the subteams he was mainly involved in was working on a device to help emergency medical service workers lift heavy patients.

When we got there, I said Hey, wait a second, Im working on this EMS project, maybe youd be interested in it? So after making friends with the people there, I ended up talking to one of the station chiefs and she was really excited about the project, Cohen said. She invited us back for a demo and a month later, we went back with a fully fledged prototype and got some really great feedback.

The device, called the Emergency Lift Assist, was designed by a Bioactivity subteam called Cascade Rapid Response. The team primarily focuses on the design and implementation of devices to assist first responders and improve patient safety. The Emergency Lift Assist operates by safely and quickly rolling a patient onto a tarp. Once strapped in, a hydraulically powered set of frames lifts the patient with just the push of a button. The device can also fold to navigate tight spaces and traverse staircases.

Although emergency medical service workers have devices to transport patients, lifting them off the ground is another challenge entirely. This device reduces the wait time to load heavy patients by not having to call for extra labor and reduces the risk of injury on emergency medical service workers transporting these patients.

According to data from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Healths Division of Safety Research,overexertion and bodily reaction is the most common injury emergency medical service workers face annually, typically making up between 30-40 percent of all diagnosed injuries. Within that percentage, almost 50 percent of overexertion and bodily reaction injuries are linked to lifting patients.






Guwahati, August 7 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday severely reprimanded the National Register of Citizens (NRC) State Coordinator of Assam and Registrar General of India (RGI) for speaking to the media with statements on claims and objections process and modalities of the NRC updating process without informing the court.





The division bench of the apex court, comprising Justices Ranjan Gogoi and RF Nariman asked NRC State Coordinator Prateek Hajelaand RGI Shailesh - who are you and whats your authority?





Dont forget you are officials of court and your job is to comply with orders. How can you go to media and speak something as you are appointed by the Supreme Court and it is to be finalished by us. Should we send you both to jail.You still have lot of works to do, the divisional bench of the top court asked Hajela and Shailesh.





The apex court warned the two top officials of the NRC updating process against speaking to the media in future and they would need court permission to do so.





On July 31, while hearing the NRC case, the top court directed the centre to prepare Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for claims and objections.





The complete draft of NRC was published on July 30 by including the names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants and excluded over 40 lakh in the list.




GREEN BAY, Wis.  Brown County Supervisor Patrick Evans submitted papers on July 30 to place a measure on Novembers ballot. That non-binding ballot measure would uphold a Christian-style invocation before full meetings of the Brown County Board of Supervisors. The proposed ballot measure read, Should the Brown County Board of Supervisors continue to open their monthly board meeting with a Christian-style (prayer) invocation?

The current ordinance requires that the boards vice chair opens each meeting with an invocation. Evans charged that some supervisors wanted to open the invocation process to anybody who comes in. He is reported as saying that If they are Wiccan, they pray to the devil, and would invoke the Christian devil. He added, I support where we have it now, having it Christian based.

Evans claimed that he based his ballot measure on tradition rather than on an animus toward any religion. No evidence exists that any other supervisor was currently planning to change the invocation ordinance. The reaction to his proposal was swift, not supportive, and involved national civil rights organizations including Lady Liberty League.

On August 1, Evans announced he was withdrawing his proposal.

Brown County voters have seen previous debates about invocations. Vice chair Mary Scray used to end the invocation with the phrase, in Jesus precious name, amen. In 2012, the Madison-based Freedom from Religion Foundation took issue with that wording. Later that year, Scray lost her seat. The new vice chair uses more neutral language than Scray did.

In June 2018, supervisor Aaron Linssen proposed replacing the invocation with a moment of reflection. County supervisors voted to maintain a religious invocation before their meetings.

Brown County politicians react to the ballot measure

Evans said that the Abrahamic god is woven into the fabric of being a supervisor. I believe in the separation of church and state, and I believe having an invocation does not fall within the true meaning of that. I want to keep inviting [the Abrahamic] god to the board meeting.

Supervisor Aaron Linssen questioned the constitutionality of the proposed ballot measure. He also wondered if it might be publicity for Evans campaign for mayor of Green Bay. Linssen is the treasurer for the mayoral campaign of one of Evans rivals.

This is a colossal waste of time, said board chairman Patrick Moynihan Jr. Its not a Christian prayer, its a non-denominational invocation. At least one supervisor questioned the non-denominational aspect of the current invocation. Alex Tran sees no need for a prayer before meetings. Im a Buddhist, and I dont understand the need to even say a prayer, she said. Tran felt the current form of the invocation referenced the Christian religion. This non-denominational invocation includes the Abrahamic god and the Christian-specific term amen.

Brown Countys lead attorney, David Hemery, said the wording raised constitutional issues. The ballot measures wording appeared to endorse Christianity. Leaders of the Madison-based Freedom from Religion Foundation agreed.

Supervisor Mark Becker described the proposed ballot measure as stupid. He feels Brown County has more serious problems, such as overcrowded jails and opiate-addiction deaths.

In 2014, U.S. Supreme Court justices issued a ruling allowing prayer as part of open government meetings, including overtly Christian prayers, but barred the promotion of religion and the coercion of citizens.

Evans withdraws his proposal

Evans gave two reasons for withdrawing his proposed ballot measure. First, he said that his use of the term Christian-style had confused people and created discord. He said he had no desire to divide the Brown County community. Evans apologized for any discord.

Second, he had begun to work with Child Protective Services and Mental Health Outreach Services. This work reminded him to to focus my efforts; on solving true problems within Brown County.

Evans dismissed charges that the ballot measure was a publicity stunt. I work for an advertising agency. If I wanted a publicity stunt, it would have been much more creative than an advisory referendum.

The story goes national

Caitlin Gleason administers the Northeast Wisconsin Pagan Network. When she saw the news article about the proposed ballot measure and Evans comments about Wicca, she notified Lady Liberty League.

Gleason challenged the stereotype of the Upper Midwest as a Christian monolith . She pointed out that the Oneida Nation Reservation borders the Green Bay Metropolitan area. She noted the existence of a thriving immigrant population in the area.

She has seen minimal effects of the proposed ballot measure and its withdrawal, saying, Mostly people voice a combination of frustration and disapproval at this issue. Additionally, Gleason has seen no evidence that Evans is a Christian right activist. She did offer to meet with a variety of local politicians to educate them about religious diversity. Only one politician (not Evans) responded.

Lady Liberty League leaders reached out to Evans and to the news outlet (WBAY) that reported his statement, and issued a statement to the outlet which was subsequently posted online.

Minerva, a Lady Liberty League spokesperson, identified two issues in this case: Christian hegemony or privilege, and a conflation of Wicca and Satanism.

Christian hegemony or privilege refers to Christianity being normalized as the default religion, embodied in tradition. All other religions then become abnormal, unusual, or minority. For example, Evans has said that government is based on Christian principles, and we abide by those. Some Brown County supervisors failed to notice the Christian-specific language of the current invocation; it is so normalized as to be invisible.

According to Minerva, this statement goes beyond mere conflation of two religions. She considers it a case of Wicca replacing Islam or Judaism as an acceptable target for demagoguery. She framed it as the if any, then many model, saying, If a practice/representation/image of any single faith is allowed in any public forum, then that of all or many [faiths or religions] must be allowed. It is about being afforded the same opportunities, regardless of faith, Minerva said. The league continually presses the if any, then many message in all of its work.

If anyone wants to speak with Gleason about religious diversity in northeastern Wisconsin, they can contact her via the Northeast Wisconsin Pagan Network Facebook group.
Kathmandu, Nepal: Senior orthopedic surgeon Dr Govinda KC has been discharged after treatment at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital following 27 days of hunger unto death strike on Tuesday.





As the government and Dr KC had inked on the nine point agreement regarding the issue of reform in the medical education sector, he has challenged that he would resort another strike if the agreement was not addressed promptly.





I hope that the government will honor the nine-point agreement, Dr. KC said in a press meet organized before getting discharge from the hospital.





As Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli had assured me that the Medical Education Bill would be passed at the Parliament honoring the agreement, I hope that the agreement will not be despoiled, Dr. KC said in the press conference.




Paula Span in The New York Times:

When she moved from Michigan to be near her daughter in Cary, N.C., Bernadine Lewandowski insisted on renting an apartment five minutes away. Her daughter, Dona Jones, would have welcomed her mother into her own home, but shes always been very independent, Ms. Jones said. Like most people in their 80s, Ms. Lewandowski contended with several chronic illnesses and took medication for osteoporosis, heart failure and pulmonary disease. Increasingly forgetful, she had been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. She used a cane for support as she walked around her apartment complex. Still, she was trucking along just fine, said her geriatrician, Dr. Maureen Dale. Minor health issues here and there, but she was taking good care of herself. But last September, Ms. Lewandowski entered a hospital after a compression fracture of her vertebra caused pain too intense to be managed at home. Over four days, she used nasal oxygen to help her breathe and received intravenous morphine for pain relief, later graduating to oxycodone tablets. Even after her discharge, the stress and disruptions of hospitalization  interrupted sleep, weight loss, mild delirium, deconditioning caused by days in bed  left her disoriented and weakened, a vulnerable state some researchers call post-hospital syndrome.

They believe it underlies the stubbornly high rate of hospital readmissions among older patients. In 2016, about 18 percent of discharged Medicare beneficiaries returned to the hospital within 30 days, according to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Ms. Lewandowski, for example, was back within three weeks. She had developed a pulmonary embolism, a blood clot in her lungs, probably resulting from inactivity. The clot exacerbated her heart failure, causing fluid buildup in her lungs and increased swelling in her legs. She also suffered another compression fracture.

More here.
En espanol | Women are more likely to survive a heart attack when they are treated by a female doctor and more likely to die from a heart attack if treated by a male doctor, according to a study published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

The study also found that male and female heart attack patients had similar survival rates when treated by female physicians and when treated by male doctors who worked alongside female physicians.

The research team, led by doctors from the University of Minnesota, Washington University in St. Louis and Harvard University, examined the survival rates of 581,797 emergency department admittances to Florida hospitals between 1991 and 2010. Specifically, the team looked at the survival and death rates from heart attack when the gender of the patient and physician were the same, as well as the outcomes when genders were different. With a baseline mortality rate of 11.9 percent, the likelihood of death was reduced to 5.4 percent when the patient and physician were of the same gender.


MINNEAPOLIS  Pope Francis decree that the death penalty is inadmissible in all cases could pose a dilemma for Roman Catholic politicians and judges in the United States who are faced with whether to strictly follow the tenets of their faith or the rule of law.

Some Catholic leaders in death penalty states have said theyll continue to support capital punishment. But experts say Francis change could shift political debates, loom over Supreme Court confirmation hearings, and make it difficult for devout Catholic judges to uphold the law as written.

The question of whether or not Catholic political and judicial leaders would be sinning if they continue to support the death penalty is up for interpretation.

Its going to be a matter of conscience, said the Rev. Peter Clark, director of the Institute of Clinical Bioethics at St. Josephs University in Philadelphia. Judges may have to recuse themselves from many cases, if they truly think its in conflict with their conscience.

As with abortion, many Catholic political leaders and judges have been grappling with the death penalty for some time.

Previous church teachings said capital punishment was allowed in some cases if it was the only possible way of effectively defending human lives against the unjust aggressor. That gave politicians a way to honor their faith and the law.

But on Thursday, the Vatican said Francis changed church teaching to say capital punishment can never be sanctioned because it constitutes an attack on human dignity.

In the past, it was acceptable to say that the Catholic church had a position that the death penalty was acceptable in some circumstances. Thats no longer true now, said Marci Hamilton, a professor at the University of Pennsylvanias Program for Research on Religion. I think its going to make it difficult for Catholic jurists to uphold the law as written.

Thirty-one states in the U.S. allow the death penalty, including Nebraska, where the issue could soon become front-and-center: The state is scheduled to carry out an execution on Aug. 14, its first in more than two decades.

Sister Helen Prejean, the anti-death penalty campaigner whose ministry to a death row inmate inspired the book and film, Dead Man Walking, asked on Twitter if Gov. Pete Ricketts, who she said has pro-life values, would heed the popes direction.

If we say we are for dignity of all life, that includes innocent and guilty as well, she told The Associated Press.

Ricketts, a Republican and Catholic, worked to reinstate capital punishment in his state after lawmakers abolished it in 2015. He said the popes decree doesnt change his stance.

While I respect the Popes perspective, capital punishment remains the will of the people and the law of the State of Nebraska, Ricketts said in a statement. It is an important tool to protect our corrections officers and public safety.

The decree is also unlikely to slow the nations busiest death chamber in Texas, where Republican Gov. Greg Abbott  a devout Catholic  has previously said there was no conflict between his faith and support for the death penalty. His spokeswoman did not return messages about whether the popes statement might shift Abbotts view. The next execution in Texas is set for Sept. 12.

The churchs new teaching will likely feature prominently in the confirmation process for Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh, who, if confirmed, would bring the total number of Catholics on the bench to five. One former Catholic justice, the late Justice Antonin Scalia, famously said he didnt find the death penalty immoral, and that any judge who did should resign.

Hamilton, the University of Pennsylvania professor, said the popes decree could be difficult for the devout  especially in a climate where evangelicals and Catholics are increasingly arguing that their faith controls everything they do.

The difficulty in that kind of reasoning by a judge should be obvious in that they are supposed to interpret the law as given to them, said Hamilton, who clerked for former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day OConnor.

There might be more leeway for politicians, who craft public policy according to what they think is right. Still, she said, it would be inappropriate for a governor to block all death row penalty cases based on his or her faith.

Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry, a Catholic and a Republican, said his support for the death penalty hasnt wavered. He criticized the Popes leadership, saying Francis has a socialist bent and his statement doesnt change church doctrine.

He wants to comment on the United States judicial system, a system that is by far the best, while ignoring the problems of all the other judicial systems around the world, Landry said.

A spokesman for Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards did not return messages seeking comment. Edwards is also Catholic, and Landry has speculated that the governor has deliberately dragged his feet on executions: A judge recently barred Louisiana from carrying out any death sentences until mid-2019, at Edwards request, after the governor cited trouble obtaining lethal drugs.

The issue could also create interesting political shifts. Robert Vischer, dean of the University of St. Thomas School of Law in Minneapolis, noted that Republicans almost uniformly support the death penalty and Democrats almost uniformly support the legal right to abortion.

Previously more conservative leaders have been able to call out Catholic politicians for not abiding by their own churchs teaching, he said. Now its going to go in both directions.

__

Associated Press writers Nicole Winfield in Rome; Paul J. Weber in Houston; Melinda Deslatte in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Grant Schulte in Lincoln, Nebraska, contributed to this report.
RIO RANCHO  The sound of construction and smell of fresh paint permeates the walls of a 6,000-square-foot office space on the first floor of the AMREP building.

FatPipe, a business incubator from Albuquerque, is in the process of making that space its third location. The Rio Rancho facility will have four available offices and a large conference room, and it will facilitate networking opportunities as well as business workshops for locals who want to take their home business or idea to the next level.

Lisa Adkins, FatPipe chief operating officer, said she expects the new location to be up and running this month.

Adkins said she works with a diverse group of companies and people who all have a vision to grow and work together.

When you get creatives combined with technologists combined with non-profits, really great things start to happen, Adkins said. Its amazing how well they work together and start helping each other rather than feeling like theres competition.

That camaraderie is also an antidote for the isolation that can be a problem for many solo business people.

Working at home can be very isolating, Adkins said. I worked at home running my consulting business for three years. My puppy was always on my lap, my laundry was done and Oprah was on in the background.

Adkins said when she got back into the business network, she didnt realize what she was missing out on.

I then realized that even just a couple of days a week, spending your time in a shared space with like-minded people was beneficial, she said.

Adkins said FatPipes new location in Rio Rancho will offer the same opportunities.

We turned what used to be a gym into a giant conference room, she said. We also see using this space as a training center. We would love to see people come in and provide training and workshops for people as well.

Along with the office space, Adkins said there will be two huge televisions on the wall to create bigger meetings with other business and trainers from around the state.

The facility will have one private conference room with seating for 10, and a smaller IT room that FatPipe clients can use for small private meetings.

Right now FatPipe has three locations: in Albuquerque, Raton and Rio Rancho.
Marble Brewery is taking its award winning craft beers to El Paso.

It is being well received, said Tony Calder, Marble Brewery brand ambassador. (People in El Paso) have been asking for a long time. We know that there have been bottles and kegs going across the state line illegally. Now they can get Marble beer legally.

The beers roll out with a series of events scheduled all this week at various venues in El Paso.

Marble beer releases will be held at Hoppy Monk on on El Pasos West Side and at Craft & Social in Downtown El Paso. Other events are scheduled later this week at all three Tin Man locations including a Penny Growler Tap Takeover on . Patrons who buy a growler will get any Marble fill for one penny.

L & F Distributors, out of McAllen, Texas, has a branch in El Paso and will handle distribution of Marble products. Marble beers also will be available at several specialty retailers including Specs Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods, Western Beverage Liquors & Wine locations, and Whole Foods in El Paso.

Marble Brewery celebrated its 10th anniversary in April.

Over the years Marble Brewing has fared well in national beer competitions. Last year, it won gold for its Cholo Stout in the American Style Stout category at the Great American Beer Festival. Marble also won bronze for its Pilsner in the Kellerbier or Zwickelbier category at GABF. The Pilsner has won six medals between the GABF and World Beer Cup. Marbles most prominent recognition came in 2014, when it was named Small Brewery and Brewmaster of the Year.
The SunZia Southwest Transmission Projects long, controversial path to commercial operation has hit another snag, after a hearing examiner recommended the state Public Regulation Commission reject a location permit to lay some 320 miles of transmission line in New Mexico.

The project, which would construct two high-voltage lines running 520 miles from central New Mexico to Arizona to carry wind-generated electricity to western markets, needs PRC approval for the exact locations where the towers and lines would be placed, and for rights of way around the lines.

PRC examiner Ashley Schannauer held a week of public hearings in mid-June on the permit application, during which private land owners, wildlife conservation groups and Socorro County officials testified against the project. Those groups fear SunZias potential, far-reaching impact on rangeland and ranches, diverse native vegetation, cultural sites and wetlands that support thousands of migratory birds that forage and roost along the central Rio Grande where the transmission line would cross the river.

In his recommendation, Schannauer said SunZia developers didnt provide enough information on the specific locations where the transmission lines will be laid, without which its difficult for the commission to address opponents concerns. In part, thats because SunZia wants to retain a 1,000-foot corridor around the lines so developers can alter their locations if necessary during construction.

As a result, Schannauer recommended approving the developers request for 200-foot rights of way around each line, but said they should reapply for location permits when they have more precise information to offer.

Valid issues have been identified in the hearing process that have not been resolved, Schannauer wrote. The most significant is that a sufficiently defined route has not been determined.

The five-member PRC must still rule on SunZias application, and it could accept or reject Schannauers recommendations. Commissioners will likely review the case for a final decision in a public meeting in September.

The hearing examiners recommended decision denied the location permits, but it did so without any prejudice, said SunZia Project manager Tom Wray. It means the commission may expect SunZia to provide more information, although we feel our application exceeded the submissions made by others in past cases for location permits.

Meanwhile, SunZia still has applications pending for licenses and approvals with other state and federal entities, which Schannauer said complicates the PRCs ability even more to evaluate environmental concerns at this time.

The project already has right of way permits from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management for crossing federal lands in New Mexico and Arizona, but the agency now requires comprehensive mitigation plans, including aviation protection and migratory bird conservation, before it allows SunZia to proceed with construction.

In addition, developers still need rights of way from the State Land Office and the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District, plus a water quality permit from the Army Corps of Engineers given the many streams and jurisdictional waterways the transmission line would cross.

The lack of a finally defined route and approved environmental mitigation plans make the commissions balancing of interests impossible at this time, Schannauer wrote. The Hearing Examiner therefore recommends that the request for location approval be denied without prejudice to SunZias right to re-file at a future time.

If the five commissioners do accept Schannauers recommendations, it may be just a temporary setback for SunZia. The developers would continue to pursue the other state and federal permits, and then return to the PRC with more detailed information.

The PRC process marks one of the last major hurdles for SunZia, a $2 billion project thats been under regulatory review since 2008, when developers first applied for BLM approval. The BLM process was highly contentious, largely because of U.S. Department of Defense opposition to parts of the transmission lines crossing through White Sands Missile Ranges northern call up zone. In the end, SunZia agreed to bury five miles of lines in that area to avoid any interference with defense operations.

Now, wildlife and wetlands conservation groups want SunZias planned Rio Grande crossing near Escondido buried as well to minimize environmental impacts. The crossing would run in between three wildlife sanctuaries north and south of Escondido.

We were thrilled that the hearing examiner heard many of the concerns we raised, said Cecilia Rosacker, executive director of the Rio Grande Agricultural Land Trust. But we wont let up. The commissioners must still make a decision, and SunZia can come back and file a new application.

Socorro County Commissioner Martha Salas said ranchers and county residents are watching closely.

It felt like David and Goliath going into the hearing, Salas said. At least we were able to delay the process.

For Gran Quivera Ranch co-owner Robin Dunn, a PRC case intervenor, Schannauers recommendations could produce a lot more needed details about SunZia.

Theres still so much missing information, Dunn said. We need to be very clear about everything to make good decisions, and this could help us get what we need.
Copyright  2018 Albuquerque Journal

A major Albuquerque business group has asked the state Supreme Court to stop a local plan to dramatically reduce the number of grand jury settings available each month, arguing that the change will have an adverse impact on public safety.

In a letter sent Monday to Chief Justice Judith Nakamura, the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce wrote that the 2nd Judicial District Court decision will undermine progress at a time when Albuquerque crime is on the decline and felony indictments are up.

It seems we have momentum on our side in the fight against crime, the chamber wrote. Why, then, would the 2nd Judicial District Court make such a dramatic and sweeping change, jeopardizing the first sustained reduction in crime that our community has seen in well over five years?

Court officials announced the change last month, saying that the move away from grand juries and toward preliminary hearings is in line with criminal justice best practices and will save the courts money. A spokesman for the 2nd Judicial District Court declined to comment on the letter.

The court has asked the District Attorneys Office to instead initiate cases using preliminary hearings, which are held in open court, before a judge, and often require the testimony of multiple witnesses, including law enforcement officers. Grand juries, on the other hand, generally hear from one witness at a closed hearing where a defendant is not entitled to representation.

Beginning Oct. 1, a grand jury panel will be available six days per month, down from five days each week.

Defense attorneys say preliminary hearings offer more protections to the accused.

Indicting a majority of cases under a preliminary hearing system, the chamber says, would require police officers to spend an inordinate amount of additional time testifying in court rooms and overtime costs would soar.

Justice will be delayed and denied far too often, the chamber wrote. And those who commit crimes will not face the kind of swift and certain punishment that we know to be the most effective deterrent of criminal behavior.

District Attorney Raul Torrez said shortly after the courts announcement that he was considering asking the Supreme Court to weigh in on the decision.

A spokesman for the Administrative Office of the Courts said Monday that no legal challenge seeking Supreme Court intervention has been filed.
FOR THE RECORD: This story should have said that a District Court bailiff in Roswell informed the reporter that Judge James M. Hudson of Roswell wasnt available for comment after the hearing.

Copyright  2018 Albuquerque Journal

ROSWELL  Despite a new state law and court rules providing for open hearings, state District Court officials ejected a Journal reporter Monday from a courtroom minutes before a hearing sought by a woman who questions how a court-appointed professional guardian is handling her adult sons case and finances.

After the reporter had left the courthouse in Roswell, the judge reversed himself and opened the guardianship hearing, apologizing to those in the courtroom.

Elizabeth McCutcheon and her 32-year-old son, Bryan, who suffered brain damage a decade ago, had requested the hearing in June.

They allege that the guardian company, CNRAG Inc., has filed inaccurate annual reports with the court and failed to file annual financial reports or give a comprehensive accounting of his income and expenditures. They also seek the courts review of the guardianship arrangement, because some circumstances involving Bryan McCutcheon have changed in recent years.

CNRAGs owner, Roxanna Gates, told the Journal after the hearing that she has complied fully with the requirements imposed on court-appointed guardians and denied any mismanagement in the case.

She said that as the representative payee for Bryan McCutcheon, she isnt required to file financial reports with the court for McCutcheon, whose guardianship services are paid for by the state Office of Guardianship, which handles services for low-income clients.

The judge set a follow-up hearing on the merits of McCutcheons allegations for Oct. 31.

Before the start of the proceedings on Monday morning before Judge James M. Hudson of Roswell, a Journal reporter sitting in the courtroom was told by bailiff Tim Foster that such hearings were sequestered and, thus, closed to the public. The bailiff first asked the reporter to identify herself as she walked in the door.

When the reporter showed the bailiff a copy of new court rules requiring open guardianship hearings effective July 1, Foster told the reporter she had to leave anyway. When the reporter asked to speak to the judge in court to object, Foster denied the request and said he had already consulted the judge.

Foster insisted the reporter leave and said she could talk to the judge after the hearing.

The reporter left the Chaves County Courthouse to contact the Administrative Office of the Courts via cellphone, because the public isnt allowed to take cellphones into the courtroom.

Later, in an interview, Elizabeth McCutcheon said that during the 25-minute hearing, Hudson apologized and then opened up the courtroom.

According to Judge Hudson, there was miscommunication with his staff and confusion over whether the hearing today was sequestered, Barry Massey of the AOC wrote in a subsequent email to the Journal.

After you left, Massey told the reporter, he (the judge) went on the record and took responsibility for the problem. He had his bailiff go out and call the case again so anyone else who wanted to appear could do so, but apparently you had left.

New Mexicos judges who hear guardianship and conservatorship cases have been trained and should be aware of the changes in the law, Masseys email said.

Opening what have been historically closed, sequestered court hearings in guardian and conservator cases has been considered a cornerstone of a legislative reform package approved in February. Legislative leaders and judges themselves have said they hoped such transparency would help improve accountability in the much-criticized system.

The state Supreme Court recently approved rules implementing the new law, further detailing how all courtroom proceedings shall be open to the public unless the judge follows a set procedure and articulates the overriding interest being protected.

Under court rules, judges are to hold public hearings, giving the parties time to file motions and replies, before ordering a courtroom closure.

Massey said the judiciary held two sessions on guardianship changes during the annual judicial conclave in June for judges. Written information about the new system has been distributed to the states judges, and two Albuquerque district judges have conducted continuing education about the subject at lunchtime meetings that judges can attend in person, by phone or video teleconferencing.

Although Foster earlier had said the judge would be available after the hearing, he told the Journal reporter after the hearing that judge, who was about to hear another case, was not available for comment.

Bryan McCutcheon, after the hearing, said he was disappointed in Mondays events.

Im like, what? It (hearing) is open.

He posted a notice on his Facebook page the night before saying, Dear residents of Roswell NM. I would like to invite you to the Roswell courthouse.tomorrow morning for my status hearing at 7:30 a.m. thank you.good nite.
Emilio Gutierrez Soto, a journalist who fled certain assassination in his native Mexico, has just been released from an immigrant detention center in Texas. He and his son Oscar were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement last December, two months after Emilio received an award from the National Press Club, where he publicly denounced the asylum process. Two weeks ago, a federal judge ordered both Emilio and Oscar released, noting evidence suggested Emilio was targeted by ICE for speaking out. Gutierrez Sotos case is emblematic of the cruelty of President Donald Trumps crackdown on immigrants and asylum-seekers, as well as Trumps increasingly vitriolic disdain for the free press.

In 2005, Emilio wrote a series of articles documenting corruption in the Mexican army in his home state of Chihuahua. He refused to stop reporting and, in 2008, received an urgent call from a friend who had heard that Emilio was about to be killed. Emilio grabbed his vital documents and his 14-year-old son and fled for the U.S. border. Emilio and Oscar were detained for several months upon arrival, then released as his asylum claim made its way through the lengthy process. Speaking at the award ceremony at the National Press Club in October 2017, Emilio said, The murder cases, the disappearances and the exiles is a constant suffering and source of pain for our families.  Those who seek political asylum in countries like this, like the United States, we encounter the decisions of immigration authorities that barter away the international laws. Two months later, he and Oscar were arrested.

The National Press Clubs executive director, Bill McCarren, immediately began advocating for Emilio and Oscar. He went to El Paso with Congressmember Beto ORourke to meet with ICE. McCarren was told to tone it down by the ICEs local general counsel, Elias Gastelo. McCarren took that to mean that they should be less public in their campaign to support Emilio: We are here to shed light, when we believe someone is being arbitrarily detained. It is our job to ensure everyone knows his name, McCarren told Democracy Now! shortly after the meeting.

During the seven months of ICE detention, Emilio witnessed firsthand President Donald Trumps cruel immigration crackdown. Life in that concentration camp is extremely harsh. What the immigration authorities seek is to finish you off psychologically, and were trying to resume our lives in liberty, in semi-liberty, Emilio told Democracy Now! Wednesday, just days after U.S. District Judge David Guaderrama ordered his release. Emilio recounted the anguish he shared with the many parents in detention with him, separated from their children, not knowing if they would ever see them again. More than 700 children still remain separated from their parents.

While Emilio is optimistic following the election of Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador as Mexicos new president, he remains critical of the current Mexican government: The Mexican Consulate in El Paso is an agency that is totally at the service of ICE; it does not protect the interests of Mexicans at all. The consul takes great pleasure in being friends with William Joyce, whos the field director of ICE.

While Emilio and Oscar are out of detention, they are still under supervision of ICEs internal security. We hope that in coming days the immigration authorities, particularly ICE, will return to us our Social Security cards and the other documents that they confiscated from us, Emilio said. In addition to receiving the National Press Clubs John Aubuchon Press Freedom Award, he was also named a Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellow by the University of Michigan. He is expected to be at the Ann Arbor campus on Aug. 27, but fears that ICE is delaying the release of his documents, preventing him from traveling, to punish him.

We have such a moral commitment on our part, my son and myself, to raise awareness and foster greater solidarity among human beings as a way of strengthening our peoples, our education and our social conduct. We have a lot of work to do, he said, adding, I have a lot to write.

Emilio Gutierrez Soto and his son Oscar deserve political asylum. Emilio might have been another statistic, one of scores of Mexican journalists killed in the line of duty. But he survived by fleeing to the United States. His hard-earned perspective is needed as a new day dawns in Mexico and anti-immigrant prejudice consumes the White House.

Amy Goodman is the host of Democracy Now!, a daily international TV/radio news hour airing on more than 1,400 stations. She is the co-author, with Denis Moynihan and David Goodman, of Democracy Now!: 20 Years Covering the Movements Changing America. Distributed by King Features Syndicate.
SANTA FE  An online petition drive is calling for the continuation of the Entrada, a re-enactment of the Spanish reoccupation of Santa Fe led by Don Diego de Vargas 12 years after the 1680 Pueblo revolt.

Last week, Caballeros de Vargas, the organization that has staged the pageant during the annual Santa Fe Fiesta for more than 100 years, confirmed that it would discontinue staging the event to allow for the healing of our brothers and sisters and lead to further unification of all cultures.

The September event has been met by increasingly intense protests led by Native American groups who say the Entrada is a whitewashed celebration of the violent conquest of northern New Mexico. Santa Fe police arrested eight demonstrators last year, though charges were later dropped.

Eli Bransford started the petition on change.org. As of Monday afternoon, 795 people signed the petition intended to send the message to the city of Santa Fe that they made the wrong choice.

City government leaders  along with the Caballeros, the Fiesta Council, the Archdiocese of Santa Fe, and area pueblos  were involved in negotiations in an effort to resolve the conflict over Entrada.

The petition states, This tradition generally has been accepted, celebrated and even loved by the overwhelming majority of locals including the various indigenous peoples that have been here for generations. If this tradition can be removed because of the loud voice of a few, no tradition or past heroes are any longer safe.
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.  A powerful storm that pummeled a busy Colorado zoo with large hail on Monday injured 14 people and killed at least two animals, authorities said.

Five people were taken to the hospital with traumatic injuries after the short but intense afternoon storm passed over Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, according to the Colorado Springs Fire Department. Another nine were treated at the scene, but additional details about the victims and their injuries have not been released.

Jenny Koch, the zoos marketing director, says a vulture and a duck were killed by the hail. A second vulture was also injured by hail and was being cared for in a veterinary hospital.

It was hail the size Ive never seen before, she told The Post. Basically chunks of ice  Its frightening.

Softball-sized hail was reported in the area, but it was smaller at the zoo.

About 3,400 people were at the zoo at the time, and dozens of vehicles in the parking lot were damaged. The zoo will be closed Tuesday so employees can take care of injured animals and repair broken windows and skylights.

None of the children attending zoo camp were injured.

The storm knocked out power to nearly 2,000 customers in the area, and heavy rain and debris forced the closure of U.S. Highway 24 west of Manitou Springs, The Colorado Springs Gazette reported.

The Broadmoor Hotel and resort also was pounded by hail, and staff members are assessing the damage.

It was a significant storm, said Barry Brown, the hotels vice president of sales and marketing.

Forecasters warned that runoff from the rain could cause flooding of small creeks, roads, underpasses and low-lying areas as more storms develop along the Front Range on Monday night.
Slather that sunscreen on your kids and dont hold back. It could help save their lives.

A study out of Australia found that using sunscreen in childhood can reduce the risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, by 40 percent in young adults.

As with most cancers, the risk of melanoma increases with age. But according to the American Cancer Society, melanoma is one of the most common cancers in young adults (especially young women).

Researchers at the University of Sydney analyzed data collected from nearly 1,700 Australians, ages 18 to 40. They looked at those who were regular users of sunscreen in childhood and compared to those who rarely used the products. The results were published last week in JAMA Dermatology.

The association of sun exposure and sunburn with melanoma risk, particularly in childhood, is well established and this study showed that regularly using sunscreen was protective against the harmful effects of sun exposure, said Anne Cust, lead researcher and director of the Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research group at the University of Sydneys School of Public Health.

Approximately two in three Australians will be diagnosed with some type of skin cancer by the time they are 70, according to the study.

It is estimated that in 2018, more than 91,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with melanoma. In the past 10 years, rates for new cases of melanoma have been rising on average 1.5 percent each year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Australian study was funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Cancer Council NSW, Cancer Council Victoria, Cancer Council Queensland, and the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

The CDC recommends these measures to avoid UV radiation:

 Stay in the shade, especially during midday hours.

 Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.

 Wear a hat with a wide brim to shade your face, head, ears and neck.

 Wear sunglasses that wrap around and block both UVA and UVB rays.

 Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher, and both UVA and UVB (broad spectrum) protection.

 Avoid indoor tanning.
The woman arrived at the emergency department at Huntington Hospital on New Yorks Long Island after she was hit by her boyfriend during an argument. Her situation raised concerns among the medical staff, which had recently been trained to be on the lookout for signs of sex trafficking.

An undocumented immigrant from El Salvador, she worked at a local cantina frequented by immigrants. Her job was to get patrons drinks and to dance with them, but many workers in those jobs are expected to offer sex, too. Her boyfriend didnt want her to work there, which led to the fight, one doctor recalled.

As part of the intake process, the emergency staff asked the 36-year-old woman a series of questions about whether she had ever had sex for money, or whether she had to give someone else part of what she earns, among other things. The screening questions were part of a new program at Northwell Health, a 23-hospital system in the New York metro area that includes Huntington Hospital, to train staff and provide them with tools to identify and support victims of human trafficking.

No hard figures exist for how many people are involved in human trafficking, the term used when individuals are forced to work or have sex for someone elses commercial benefit. Polaris, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that advocates for these people and runs help lines for them, said calls and texts to its national hotlines have steadily ticked up in recent years, increasing the number of cases 13 percent between 2016 and 2017, to 8,759.

But health care providers frequently fail to recognize these patients situation. According to a 2014 survey of about 100 survivors of sex trafficking, 88 percent said that while they were being trafficked they had contact with a health care provider, typically someone in an emergency department.

When trafficking victims come through the health care system but we dont identify them, its a big missed opportunity, said Dr. Santhosh Paulus, a family physician and site director of the Huntington Hospitals family medicine residency program, who started the program at Northwell.

Northwell is one of a growing number of hospitals and health care systems that are putting such programs in place. They want to alert staff to be on the lookout for trafficking, much as they watch for signs of child abuse, domestic violence and elder abuse.

Since last spring, nearly 300 staff members at Huntington Hospital and a family clinic have received training in how to spot trafficking victims and how to help them.

Training is given not only to doctors and nurses but also to registration and reception staff, social workers and security guards. Restore NYC, an organization that assists people caught up in sex trafficking, provided the initial training to key staff, and a hospital task force trains the others. During the next few years, similar efforts will be rolled out at all of Northwells 23 hospitals, Paulus said.

Identifying victims of trafficking is not unlike identifying victims of other forms of violence, said Dr. Wendy Macias-Konstantopoulos, director of the human trafficking initiative at Massachusetts General Hospital.

One of the big red flags is when people delay coming in for medical care, such as waiting weeks to come in to get an injured ankle or sexually transmitted infection checked out, Macias-Konstantopoulos said. Or it may be a pattern of injuries that dont make sense. Sometimes people are reluctant to explain their injury, or they come in with someone who seems overbearing. Having a high index of suspicion is the first step, she said.
If Lauren Dungan had waited just 30 more minutes, she might be dead.

On the morning of Oct. 25, 2017, she was sitting in her Huntersville apartment living room, scrolling through Instagram and drinking coffee. Five days earlier, she had given birth to her second son, Hunter. Though still recovering, she was starting to feel like herself again.

Her husband, Evan, was sitting next to her. Their daughter, 2 at the time, had just been dropped off at day care.

Then it started  the pressure felt like an elephant on her chest, the classic heart attack sign.

Somethings really wrong, she recalled saying, immediately turning to Evan and sitting back into the sofa.

What do you mean?

She didnt know. She repeated it: I dont know. Lauren had never felt anything like it before. At first, neither of them were concerned.

She brushed it off.

Its low blood pressure, she thought, something shed experienced briefly while still in the hospital. Shed also had gestational diabetes, but when she checked her glucose, it was fine.

A few minutes had passed since the initial pain. I think we should go to the emergency room, she recalls saying, growing increasingly worried. The pain hadnt subsided as shed hoped.

The seconds stretched. While her husband hastily awoke their son and grabbed a diaper bag and bottle, Lauren remained glued to the couch. We gotta hurry, she told him, unable to move and not feeling well.

No signs of heart disease

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection, SCAD, is rare. It happens when the layers on the artery wall start to peel and separate  causing a blockage that can lead to a heart attack and, in some cases, death.

There is little known about SCAD, which has been researched and diagnosed for only the past two decades. It typically occurs in young women  Lauren is 33  who are often just a few days postpartum, like Lauren was.

If she were a man, we would call what she had a widowmaker, because it usually kills young men, said Dr. Amjad AlMahameed, a cardiologist at the Novant Health Heart and Vascular Institute and Laurens doctor.

AlMahameed has been in Charlotte for almost a year now, having spent five years on staff at the Cleveland Clinic and 11 years at Harvard Medical School. In both places, he saw many young women come in with similar issues to Lauren  having heart attacks with no signs of heart disease, the usual cause. At first, no one knew what the problem was.

Then doctors started talking to one another, and more reports came out about it. AlMahameed began to see it more and more, and was able to recognize it after seeing it multiple times in Cleveland and Boston.

When he first came to Charlotte, he was surprised that he didnt see any patients with the condition.

Then, look, here comes Lauren.

Possibility of death

Lauren and her husband rushed to the emergency room in Huntersville. The cardiologist there took one look at Laurens EKG and sent the photo to AlMahameed. He didnt like the look of it.

He rushed Lauren to Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, where AlMahameed and his team were on standby.

Lauren was conscious for the drive and she remembers the speeding of the ambulance, the shaking of the stretcher. I hope this isnt it, she recalls thinking.

Lauren had dissections in multiple major vessels in her heart and was living off of little blood flow. At Presbyterian hospital, they immediately placed a balloon pump in her heart for support and brought her into the operating room. Her heart function was at 20 percent.

Evan was in a private waiting room holding 5-day-old Hunter.

The doctor came in to show Evan pictures of Laurens heart. As the two walked to the lab, another doctor stopped them in the middle of the hallway and held out an authorization form for open heart surgery.

If you dont sign this, your wife is going to die, he said.

Evan laughs recalling the incident, saying he had no intentions of not signing. But it was shocking.

The doctors performed a double bypass on Lauren, taking a vein from her leg and using it to create a new path for her heart to pump blood. She still has the scar on her inner thigh.

A lot of Laurens out there

Lauren was lucky. Though shed had a severe heart attack, her heart function is now back to normal. Shell need to have regularly scheduled follow-ups and take daily medication that makes her tired.

By the time many SCAD patients arrive at the hospital, they have suffered so much damage to the heart that it becomes permanent or results in death, AlMahameed said. Timing is everything, and because the condition primarily affects young women, it could become more common in Charlotte.

I do believe that there are a lot of people who already live in Charlotte who might have these conditions and who arent aware of it, he said.
Copyright  2018 Albuquerque Journal

A new federal law may shake up how New Mexico and other states work to save children from abuse and neglect.

Tucked into a budget package approved by Congress this year, the Family First Prevention Services Act is expected to reshape parts of New Mexicos child welfare system, forcing the state to move children more quickly out of group homes or shelters.

The law will also generate federal funding for prevention services that would target families in need of improved parenting skills.

There is, however, a catch: a requirement for state matching funds and a series of deadlines for states to meet.

By October, for example, New Mexico must have a plan for tracking and preventing fatalities resulting from child abuse and neglect.

I feel like were way behind here, said state Rep. Gail Chasey, D-Albuquerque, co-chairwoman of the legislative Courts, Corrections and Justice Committee.

A number of experts briefed New Mexico legislators on the new law Monday during an all-day meeting in Albuquerque.

Top administrators for the state Children, Youth and Families Department said that New Mexico is on track to meet the new deadlines, but that there will be challenges  such as a shortage of foster parents.

About 200 children in the state, for example, have been in a congregate care group setting for longer than the roughly two weeks that will be allowed when the new law is fully in effect, officials said.

The state will have to cut in half the amount of time children have typically been staying in shelters, officials said. The average stay is now about 24 days.

Charles Sallee, deputy director of the Legislative Finance Committee, said New Mexico has a chance to rethink how it handles child welfare programs. The state, he said, is among the lowest spenders on prevention  something that could be addressed by matching funds offered under the law.

New Mexico could also respond to low-level referrals to Child Protective Services by offering a program aimed at helping the families learn to better care for their children, an alternative to an adversarial investigation, Sallee said.

He described New Mexico as a state with a large number of child-neglect cases related to drug abuse. Children, he said, sometimes bounce from one foster family to another.

Clearly, Sallee said, the system, the way its designed, is not working.

Complicating matters is the change in administration that will occur Jan. 1, when Gov. Susana Martinezs term expires and a new governor takes office. The federal law imposes a series of deadlines this year and next.

This couldnt happen at a more difficult time for us, said Sen. Cisco McSorley, D-Albuquerque.
LADING-LADING, Indonesia  Soldiers have pulled a man alive from the rubble of a large mosque flattened by an earthquake on the Indonesian island of Lombok, while thousands of homeless locals waited for aid Tuesday and stranded tourists camped at beaches and in the lobbies of damaged hotels.

The north of Lombok has been devastated by the magnitude 7.0 quake that struck Sunday night, killing at least 105 people, seriously injuring more than 230 and destroying thousands of buildings. Two days after the quake, rescuers were still struggling to reach all the affected areas and authorities expected the death toll to rise.

Disaster officials have not said how many people they believe are buried beneath the ruins of the Jabal Nur mosque in Lading-Lading but the village head, Budhiawan, said about 30 based on unclaimed belongings left outside the mosque.

Muhamad Juanda, who narrowly escaped, said 100 people were inside praying when the earth began to roll. Many got out but dozens were trapped, he said.

When the earthquake happened, I stopped praying with dozens of other people. I stayed during the first shock, but the shock grew stronger and we rolled around trying to run out, he said.

Video shot sometime Monday by a soldier showed rescuers shouting Thank God as a man was pulled from a space under the mosques flattened roof and staggered away from the ruins supported by soldiers.

Youre safe, mister, said one of the soldiers as emotion overcame the man, clad in Islamic robes, and villagers crowded around him.

Disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said he hopes a lot of people can be saved from the mosque. Two people were rescued from the debris Monday including a woman with a broken leg, said villager Supri Yono, and three were found dead. An AP reporter saw one body recovered Tuesday.

Were forced to deal with broken bones in the traditional way at home because the hospital had to deal with hundreds of other injuries, said Budhiawan, the village head.

Rescuers were using heavy duty cutting equipment on Tuesday to prize apart the tangled mound of debris.

Aid organizations, already on Lombok after it was hit a week earlier by a 6.4 quake that killed 16 people, said they were stepping up their humanitarian efforts.

Oxfam said more than 20,000 people were in temporary shelters and thousands more were camping out in the open. It said clean drinking water was scarce because of a recent spell of extremely dry weather in Lombok. Food, medical supplies, tarpaulins and clothes are also urgently needed, it said.

The lush countryside of northern Lombok is pockmarked with collapsed homes and shops and damaged mosques. Thousands of people sat on roadsides outside their houses under blue makeshift tents and tarps, too afraid to stay inside because of aftershocks or their homes now uninhabitable.

In the northern town of Tanjung, rescue workers in orange uniforms spent a second day trying to recover a body from the rubble of a destroyed home as a foul stench rose above it.

The brother-in-law of the dead man complained that authorities have not brought in heavy equipment that it is desperately needed.

I want him to be pulled out of there immediately. But theyre working too slow, said Masin, the brother-in-law, as ambulances passed by, sirens wailing.

Behind him, the rescuers, a dozen of them, were drilling into a flattened concrete wall. They had already used saws to cut a square out of the slab but could not find the body.

The body is pinned underneath. We brought in sniffer dog and used saws and a drill but we cant figure out where he is, said Aprintinus Titus, a rescue worker from the National Search and Rescue Agency.

We will not give up until we pull him out of this rubble. We know how hard his family is suffering, said Titus.

Hundreds of tourists and workers were still struggling to get off three outlying resort islands where power was cut off and hotels and hostels were damaged. Nugroho said more than 4,600 foreign and Indonesian tourists had been evacuated from the islands, with ships taking people to ports in Lombok and Benoa, Bali.

British tourist Saffron Amis, who was stranded on Gili Trawangan island, said she spent a second night outdoors as aftershocks rattled the region before finally securing space on a boat.

We slept in a bungalow until another quake hit us at midnight and then we moved to the beach, she said.

At Lomboks airport, dozens of tourists slept on the floor as they waited for flights off the island. Many hotels closed because of damage but some allowed travelers to camp in their lobbies.

That was my first experience with the earthquake and it was really terrible, said Lize Reert, a Belgian woman among the several thousand who fled Gili Trawangan. It was a nightmare in my life.

Like its better known neighbor Bali, Lombok is home to beaches and mountains. Hotels and other buildings in both locations are not allowed to exceed the height of coconut trees.

Indonesia is prone to earthquakes because of its location on the Ring of Fire, an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Basin. In December 2004, a massive magnitude 9.1 earthquake off Sumatra triggered a tsunami that killed 230,000 people in a dozen countries.

___

Karmini reported from Tanjung, Indonesia. Associated Press writer Todd Pitman contributed from Tanjung.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi posed for pictures and shook hands with volunteers in the Nob Hill headquarters of Democrat Deb Haaland on Tuesday as the two campaigned for more resources to help victims of domestic violence, especially Native American women.

It was also a chance for Pelosi to highlight Haalands chance to make history as the first Native American woman elected to the U.S. House.

You should see the excitement across the country about her candidacy, Pelosi told a crowd gathered inside Haalands campaign office on the old Route 66.

Haaland, a former state Democratic Party chairwoman, is competing against Republican Janice Arnold-Jones, a former state representative, and Libertarian Lloyd Princeton, a business consultant, in New Mexicos 1st Congressional District.

Much of Tuesdays campaign stop was dedicated to supporting congressional efforts to extend the federal Violence Against Women Act, which provides grants to groups that work to combat domestic violence. Several speakers noted that Native American women face higher rates of violence than other women.

I want all of us to shine a light on this crisis, said Haaland, a member of Laguna Pueblo.

State Rep. Georgene Louis, an Albuquerque Democrat and member of Acoma Pueblo, said New Mexico, in particular, has a high rate of women killed by men.

Pelosis visit comes as the congressional campaign swings into its last 90 days. Two of New Mexicos three seats in the U.S. House are open  because Democrat Michelle Lujan Grisham and Republican Steve Pearce are leaving Congress to run for governor.

A spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Campaign Committee described Pelosi as the toxically unpopular leader and questioned why she wasnt appearing with Xochitl Torres Small, the Democratic candidate for the House seat covering southern New Mexico.

In a brief interview, Pelosi said Torres Small is a priority for us and that New Mexico is rich in women of color who are going to be members of Congress.

The state Republican Party blasted Democrats for campaigning with Pelosi, a former House speaker from San Francisco.

Nancy Pelosi is the face of left-wing Washington liberals who want to raise taxes and take money out of the pockets of hardworking New Mexicans, Republican Chairman Ryan Cangiolosi said. Its no surprise that Pelosi supports left-wing politicians like Deb Haaland and Michelle Lujan Grisham  theyre all more interested in partisanship than leadership.
Founded in 1918, Britannia Industries Limited is celebrating its 100th anniversary. To celebrate the milestone, the company has revealed a new brand identity and philosophy, illustrating the companys vision to become the future of food  a global total foods company. In addition, the company announced that it will launch 50 new products in the next 12 months and enter new and exciting categories, including croissants, cream wafers and enhance product offerings in existing categories. The companys play in value- added dairy will also receive a boost like never before.

Through the last 100 years, Britannia has brought smiles and delight to many Indians and is one of the most trusted names in every Indian household. Our focus on consistent everyday execution, a sharp focus on staying relevant to consumers and a keen innovation mindset has made this journey an exciting one. We will continue to delight India with healthy and exciting food products. As we take decisive strides in becoming a Total Foods Company, we will also step up our plans to take Britannia to the globe, said Varun Berry, Managing Director, Britannia Industries Limited. With a growing appetite for innovative and differentiated product offerings, todays consumer is more discerning, is making healthier choices, and expects unerring quality. This drives our relentless focus on delivering consumer delight, he added.

A brand new Britannia, reaffirming goodness and excitement

As a part of its centenary celebrations, Britannia unveiled its new logo that reflects its ability to thrive in the age of digital consumers as well as showcase the brands commitment to excitement and goodness quotient. The companys logo has undergone a change after 20 years and seeks to be forward looking, emphasizing the limitless opportunities that Britannia aims to explore while continuing to build upon the success of its power brands and transition into a global total foods company.

The new logo was developed in close consultation with leading global branding agency, Interbrand. Substantial research was conducted to develop the unifying logo that reflects accessibility, well-being and excitement.

The mega centenary year celebrations will roll out in August with a multi- media campaign. The TV campaign celebrates Britannias 100-year anniversary with the uniquely Indian idiom Sau saal jiyega and is a tribute to the love and trust India has bestowed on the brand.

Britannia has been on a fantastic trajectory both in terms of business and addressing Indian consumer needs, said Ali Harris Shere, VP  Marketing, Britannia Industries Limited. As we step into the next big phase, its time for our brand to be future ready and represent the company we aim to be  one that is exciting, offers goodness and meets consumers where they are. With this new brand identity, we look to elevate the brand through a design that is simple and elegant, yet uniquely Britannia. The 100-year campaign, set to roll out soon, is our way of expressing gratitude to the secret ingredient of our success  our consumers, he added.

At 100, Britannia will strengthen its core business, biscuits

Britannia biscuits will see an array of innovations and relaunches across multiple categories. The plans include new product formats and democratization of premium offerings. A new visual identity will be rolled out in 3 lakh retail locations in the country. The design builds a compelling story through bespoke imagery for each brand.

At 100, Britannia aims for macro-snacking entry and leadership

In the centenary year alone, Britannias innovative launches in cakes will be more than ever done before since its launch. The company, while strengthening its offerings in its leadership space of biscuits, announced a range of innovations in Cakes and Rusk, with formats as diverse as Swiss rolls, Muffins and Multi-grain rusk.

The JV with Greek croissant maker, Chipita, has been formalised and the first batch of center filled croissants will hit the market by the end of the year. Launches in other macro-snacking categories are imminent and an exciting pipeline lies ahead.

Creating new paradigms in the Dairy sector at 100-year milestone

As a strategic thrust to strengthen back end integration to its Dairy business, Britannia recently commenced a milk procurement programme in Ranjangaon, Maharashtra. This is the site of the companys up and coming manufacturing facility, which will be its largest and most comprehensive to date. The programme has piloted with 8 milk collection centres spread across 8 villages and touching the lives of 650 farmers. The company aims to scale up to 30+ centres by end of FY2018.

Britannia dairy will be launching a slew of value added products across Cheese, Milk Drinks and Dairy Whitener categories in the next 2 quarters.

At 100 years, R & D and Innovation 2.0 becomes the bedrock of future strategies



As the company gears up for the next 100 years, the cutting-edge R&D team is set to foster breakthrough innovation and create powerful sources of sustainable competitive advantage. The 55,000-square foot state-of-the-art R&D centre in Bangalore has already helped accelerate product innovation in new categories. The company has seen a 10 fold increase in absolute innovation delivery in the last 4 years.

At 100 years, 1 new geography a year becomes a reality

The company announced its plans to set up one of the biggest manufacturing centres in Nepal, the companys first outside India with an investment of Rs 55 crore.

The recently inaugurated factory in Mundra is Britannias first move towards setting up a solely exports focused facility in India. With a sizeable investment of Rs 155 crore, the state-of-the-art facility is fitted with world class infrastructure and imported technology and has an annual production capacity of 28000 MT.

Shoring up in-house manufacturing footprint

With end-to-end automated world-class facilities built for domestic and international markets, Britannia brings down cost of manufacturing and strengthens the paradigm of Least Cost Manufacturer. Britannia also leads the food space in terms of own installed capacity. The company said that assured quality and reduced distance traveled to market were a positive outcome of a well distributed and owned manufacturing footprint across the country. This will also give Britannia a head-start in its vision of occupying the Total foods space.

Driving sustainability for a better tomorrow

Britannia is the first Indian food company to have removed transfats from its entire portfolio. The company has also taken the lead in providing micro-nutrient fortification in 47 per cent of its products. Within a short span of time, Britannia has reduced the sugar content by 6 per cent per serving and has committed to reduce it further by 5 per cent by 2020. Similar efforts are being made on the Sodium content as well.

On the manufacturing front, over one-third of the energy consumed is from renewable sources. 80 per cent of the total heat generated for baking will be using clean, renewable fuel by the end of this year. In-house development of new generation high efficiency ovens has been rolled out to cover 42 per cent of production, which has enabled a 25 per cent reduction in fuel consumption. All new plants are designed for Zero liquid discharge.

Women comprise 30 per cent of the overall manufacturing workforce, and Britannia will strive to consistently provide equal opportunities for women to enter the work stream, thereby helping their families and the larger community as well.
Element Materials Technology (Element) has today announced the acquisition of Orbit Industries, Inc. (Orbit) in the United States, further strengthening the Groups position in non-destructive testing (NDT) for the aerospace industry.





Headquartered near Cleveland Ohio, Orbit is a Nadcap and ISO 17025 accredited laboratory that also operates out of four other satellite inspection facilities across Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York. With over 30 prime approvals, Orbit, a leader in the NDT industry, specializes in ultrasonic, liquid penetrant, magnetic particle and chemical processing for raw materials, semi-finished and finished products, including landing gear components, airfoils and aluminum wheels.



Charles Noall, President and CEO of Element, said: We are delighted to welcome Orbit, a world-class inspection facility, to the Element Group. In the past few years we have invested heavily in expanding our NDT platform in order to meet the strong-ramp up in engine and structure production that the aerospace industry is experiencing.



The addition of Orbit complements our existing aerospace NDT facilities in California, Connecticut, Houston, Portland and Monterrey, Mexico, strengthening our footprint, capacity and capabilities and enabling us to deliver cost savings for our clients.



John Alexandrovic, CEO, Orbit, commented Since our formation in 1965, we have become one of the leading providers of NDT services to aerospace primes and Tier 1 suppliers in the United States. We see partnering with Element as an opportunity to expand our capabilities and capacity so we can continue to offer our customers testing solutions of the best quality, lead time and price in the industry.



Element is one of the worlds leading providers of aerospace non-destructive testing services to the global aerospace sector. Its facilities across the Americas and Europe specialize in the latest state-ofthe-art testing and inspection services, including high-demand services such as digital x-ray, immersion ultrasonic and etching services.
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Aiken's Center for African American History, Arts, and Culture got a boost in fundraising on Saturday when descendants of the Immanuel Institute's founder visited Aiken for their family reunion.

Over 100 years after the institute's creation, the Dugas-Coles family celebrated their history and promoted its legacy by pledging money and organizing future fundraising for the center.

It was the first family reunion the Dugas-Coles had in eight years; some of them were seeing the center for the first time.

"We are all about re-establishing the foundation of our history, and introducing it to generations that are unaware," said Samantha Elliott Briggs, a member of the family who travelled from Birmingham, Alabama, for the event. "We see a bridge between Aiken and Augusta, since our family history is in both places."

The Dugas-Coles family has roots on both sides of the Savannah River. Their ancestor, the Rev. William R. Coles, moved to Aiken with his wife in 1880 and established the Immanuel Institute on York Street, which functioned as a church and school for freed slave children.

African American cultural center to open The Center for African American History, Arts, and Culture has been in the works since 2004. Located at the historic Immanuel Institute, it is

One of the Coles' daughters, Mamie Aiken Coles, would go on to marry Henry Clayton Dugas, from which the Dugas-Coles family earned their name.

Another family member, Cynthia Dugas Elliot, became a lifelong donor of the center during the reunion and is helping set up fundraisers to continue contributions. The center has special significance for Elliot, who attended first grade there while it was owned by St. Gerard's Parish.

"It gives me hope," Elliot said. "I feel a sense of commitment, and responsibility."

Elliot had special praise for her cousins Thelma Forehand and Bernice Sanders, who were pioneers in the center's founding.

The reunion involved a tour of the center, and the family listened to guest speakers, including Councilwoman Lessie Price, speak about their hopes for the future establishment.

Elliot said the Dugas-Coles family plans to have another reunion at the Immanuel Institute next year, in continuing celebration of their legacy.

The cultural center will house local and rotating exhibits on African-American history, from the Middle Passage to local Aiken County events. The history of the Immanuel Institute building made it an ideal location to house the center.

The Dugas-Coles are starting up a website at Dugas-Coles.com. For more information about the Immanuel Institute, including fundraising efforts, visit aikenculturalcenter.org or call 803-226-0269.
With a population of over 81 million, Iran is the second-most populous country in the region and ranks 18th in the world. As the results of the countrys latest census in March 2017 indicate, the average age in Iran is 31.1, while published figures show that half of Iranians are under the age of 30.

Following the post-revolutionary population boom in the 1980s and the Islamic Republics unpreparedness to meet the various demands of the vast number of young people, Iranian millennials have been experiencing all sorts of challenges in recent years. The lower rate of marriage, an increase in divorces and growing drug addiction all can be seen as rooted in one common issue: unemployment.

Over the past decade, creating new jobs and relying more on Irans young generation in management of the country have been among the main promises that politicians from across the political spectrum have made. This point was brought to the forefront once again after President Hassan Rouhani promised to choose executive officials from the younger generation after his re-election in 2017. Also, a law was passed in April 2016 under which  with some exceptions for high executive posts  re-employment of retirees in executive positions was banned.

However, due to many exceptions that had been made in the law, many retirees continued to hold top-tier managerial positions. As a result, parliament members recently voted to amend the law, this time by further shortening the exceptions to force the government to hire senior managers from the younger generation of Iranians.

Although the legislation still does not apply to the heads of the three branches of government, vice presidents, deputy speakers of parliament, members of the Guardian Council, ministers and legislators, positions such as governors, deputy governors, ambassadors and deputy ministers will no longer be exempted from this law. Based on published reports, 17 governors, about 80 deputy governors and 1,200 retired managers who have been re-employed must be dismissed within 60 days  if the bill is approved by the Guardian Council in coming days.

To deliver on one of his campaign promises, Rouhani appointed 35-year-old Mohammad Javad Azari Jahromi as minister of information and communications technology in 2017. The young minister is now viewed as the symbol of the transparency drive in the country and is the only official from the first generation of Iranians born after the Islamic Revolution in 1979 to serve as a Cabinet minister so far. However, despite this appointment, the average age of Rouhanis government is still 62, and many Iranians have blamed the countrys worsening economic and social situation on aging ministers who neither have the energy nor the knowledge to face the fast developing challenges of the country.

Although the bill was ultimately passed by parliament despite intense resistance and lobbying against it in some quarters, the role of some public movements such as Our Generation, which is comprised of experts born from the 1970s onward, cant be ignored. To learn more about this group of young Iranians who played an active role on social media (using the #Our_Generation hashtag both in English and Persian) and through lobbying in their drive to pass the law against the re-employment of retirees, Al-Monitor spoke with Shahram Ejtehadi, a young adviser to Minister of Roads and Urban Development Abbas Akhoundi, who is among the main activists of the Our Generation movement.

As a result of the events weve witnessed over the past two decades, this generation has reached maturity and were no longer seeing them as a generation that is full of excitement, Ejtehadi said. Today, were witnessing the consequences of peoples decisions. We have prepared a list of all competency indices that our generation has, and were going to have exclusive training and personal development programs for every competent individual of our movement so that they can play a role in the sustainable development of the country, he added.

Although the new law could be a game-changer for many young Iranians who have lost hope, many remain worried that a new generation of top managers will be chosen from those with good genes, whose main competency and advantage is being the offspring of elites. To address this concern, Ejtehadi stressed that the Our Generation movement is pushing for Iran to benefit from the young Iranians who have the competency in various fields of planning and strategy to save the country from its current challenges and turn the threats to opportunities for the development of the country. He added, Weve developed various regimes, including recruitment, development, truth finding, transparency, elimination, etc. We also have an ethical protocol that includes honesty in words and deeds.

When asked about the main difference between the next generation of Iranian managers that the movement will be supporting and promoting, Ejtehadi told Al-Monitor that its members will have two main characteristics that distinguish them from others: One is that theyre not dependent on [past and present] political, economic and social icons of the country, which makes them wholly independent individuals who are only relying on their own expertise.  Second, our approach will be inclusive and will include anyone from any political side as long as they believe in the framework of national interests and citizens rights.

While some argue that the country could face even further challenges if seasoned managers are replaced with younger people who might not have enough experience to deal with difficult situations, many others posit that the younger generation must be trusted and be given more room to show its capabilities and competencies  just as they were given the chance following the Islamic Revolution nearly 40 years ago. With many officials of the Islamic Republic now in their 60s or 70s, it is fair to say that the time for their retirement, and replacement with the younger generation who are highly educated and can better reflect the viewpoints of their generation and the challenges the country is facing, has finally come.
Although he likely meant to touch upon a vast array of issues of concern to Iranians, President Hassan Rouhani couldn't help but focus on Donald Trump's recent offer of talks and on Iran's economic problems during his live interview on state TV on Aug. 6.

Almost all Iranian newspapers covered the interview on their front pages the next day, with headlines focusing on the parts of the interview that best matched their editorial lines. Papers representing the pro-reform camp such as Aftab, Etemad and Shargh highlighted the president's comments on holding referendums to settle major domestic disputes, as enshrined in Article 59 of the Iranian Constitution.

Rouhani sparked controversy earlier this year in a speech on the anniversary of the victory of the 1979 Islamic Revolution by unearthing the same proposal. At that time, the move was met with a backlash of fury from conservative clerics and media.

Rouhani spoke with calm, responded to Trump and went deep down to the roots of the current problems gripping Irans economy. Thats how the Reformist Hamdeli paper described Rouhanis remarks.

Regarding Trump's recent offer of direct talks, Rouhani said, I have no preconditions for talks with the US government. If it is ready to negotiate paying compensation to the Iranian nation  we are ready to find out how the United States is going to do so and in how many installments.  The US owes Iran both compensation and apologies.

The conservative Javan daily  affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps  highlighted Rouhani's comments, urging people to avoid purchasing and stocking up on foreign currencies. It also touched on Rouhanis view of Trumps offer, stating, They are holding the knife over our heads and offering talks [at the same time].

US hypocrisy has no end; national unity is the quick way to bypass sanctions, is how hard-line Kayhan covered the interview. The paper quoted the president as saying: The sanctions, of course, create pressure, but they also serve some purpose. I believe we can pass this stage safely and if we are united, the sanctions could be broken soon.

Reactions from political figures and on social media were not as kind. To Issa Saharkhiz, a former deputy minister at the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, the interview was more of the same old stuff. Saharkhiz proposed that instead of those televised interviews with hackneyed questions, question-and-answer sessions be held where the president is grilled with challenging questions.

Hours before the interview, the outspoken deputy parliamentary speaker, Ali Motahari, cast doubt on whether the president would be so bold as to repeat what he said in the interview in an appearance before parliament, which has yet to be scheduled.

Fatameh Saeidi, a female Reformist lawmaker and member of the parliamentary Hope faction, echoed that sentiment in a tweet: We are waiting for more frank responses from Mr. Rouhani, especially regarding the internal causes of the problems, when he attends parliament.

Still, supportive voices could be heard. Mr. Rouhani says we will pass the crisis safely," tweeted foreign policy analyst Reza Nasri. "This is not just a slogan. Today, simultaneous with the new round of [US] sanctions, the worlds major countries issued statements in support of Iran."

Rouhanis remarks come amid a fresh round of protests in Iran against economic grievances. The president, however, has underestimated the protests, referring to some of them as riots instigated from abroad. He even partly blamed the current currency crisis on the January demonstrations that began in the city of Mashhad, the main base of his brazen opponent Ayatollah Ahmad Alamolhoda and his son-in-law Ebrahim Raisi. Those rallies spilled over to some 100 towns and cities and almost spiraled out of control.

Whether the president recognizes those protests or not, the reality is that since January public discontent has become bare and there are even anti-establishment slogans," said the Reformist daily Arman in its Aug. 7 editorial. "We are also dealing with a crisis-hit economy at home. Therefore, negotiating with Donald Trump should be viewed within that context and we need to find out to what extent such talks will bring stability and what opportunities it could create toward restoring calm to the country.
There are three ultra-Orthodox parties in the Knesset, and all of them are composed of men only. In fact, no ultra-Orthodox party in Israel ever included a female Knesset member. The constitution of Agudat Yisrael, for instance, specifically states that only men can become members.

Agudat Yisrael is now confronted with a petition challenging this parameter. Still, it is clear that even if the faction cedes to a High Court ruling and removes the ban on women's membership in the party, there will not be an ultra-Orthodox female Knesset member from one of these parties in the near future.

The ultra-Orthodox woman whose chance of becoming a member of the Knesset is the most likely is Adina Bar Shalom, the daughter of the late spiritual leader of the Shas Party, Rabbi Ovadia Yosef. Bar Shalom will run on the list of a party she established and heads.

Ultra-Orthodox society has been going through a process called "Israelization." And as part of this process, it has become increasingly accepting of the demand to allow women to represent the sector in the Knesset. But the ultra-Orthodox political and rabbinic establishment has fought this trend with all its might, and it is expected to continue preventing women from entering the ultra-Orthodox parties.

On July 30, an expanded panel of five judges recommended to Agudat Yisrael that it remove clause 6a in the party's constitution, which prohibits women's membership. Judge Uzi Fogelman said in the debate that "the Knesset is not a synagogue" (playing on the Hebrew word of Beit Knesset), and that there is no issue of freedom of religion since this concerns a public political arena where it is prohibited to violate the principle of equality.

The decision was reached in response to the petitions of 10 women's organizations, among them ultra-Orthodox organizations, against the prohibition on the membership of women in ultra-Orthodox parties. The recommendation of the judges has a 30-day grace period, and if it is not accepted the judges would likely make a decision of principle that prohibits this clause because it discriminates against women.

A similar petition was submitted involving the constitution of the Shas Party, which includes a similar clause, but the debate was suspended until a decision was made concerning Agudat Yisrael. In contrast, Degel Hatorah, which together with Agudat Yisrael make up the Yahadut Hatorah Knesset faction, does not have a clause that excludes women, but also does not include any female members.

In the course of the debate, Racheli Roshgold, an ultra-Orthodox woman from Nivharot, one of the organizations that submitted the petition, broke in to the discussion and yelled, "They're discussing technical legal arguments, but this is a matter of life and death! I have to yell what's in my heart for all of the ultra-Orthodox women, for my daughters, for our future. We have no representation in all the areas that touch on our lives: women's health, salaries, sexual assault. We're invisible."

Esti Shoshan, an ultra-Orthodox publicist, led with her colleagues the "No representation, no vote" campaign in the 2015 election, which called on women to boycott the vote if there is no female representative in any of the ultra-Orthodox parties in the Knesset.

She told Al-Monitor that the lack of representation is a central problem, since the ultra-Orthodox male leadership does not understand and does not want to deal with the issues of importance to ultra-Orthodox women, and that there is a need for such representation. She said it is impossible that a public organization in the State of Israel could allow itself to entirely exclude women. She conceded that the court's decision has a mainly declarative significance, and the chances that a woman would be included in a party's list for the Knesset election or even be elected to a local authority is slight to nil, and if it does happen, it would not be on the list of an ultra-Orthodox party.

She noted that the change in mentality in ultra-Orthodox society is huge, and if in the past the idea of an ultra-Orthodox female politician seemed crazy, today it is much more acceptable and increasingly women and men in the ultra-Orthodox sector support this.

"The ultra-Orthodox media that makes its livelihood from the hands of ultra-Orthodox politicians opposes us and paints us as enemies of the sector, alongside Reform Jews," she said. "But in the end it would not be our victory but that of ultra-Orthodox society as a whole, and it would not threaten religious law or way of life."

Michal Tzernovisky, the head of the ultra-Orthodox caucus in the Labor Party and a board member of the Israel Women's Network, said this is a power struggle and certainly not a matter of Jewish law or a religious question. "It's such an embarrassing issue," she told Al-Monitor. "There's an ultra-Orthodox female judge and ultra-Orthodox female CEOs and an ultra-Orthodox female pilot, but there can't be a female member of the Knesset?"

One of the most prominent ultra-Orthodox women in the public sphere in Israel is Adina Bar Shalom, who announced July 30 the formation of a new party that would run in the next election. She could be the first ultra-Orthodox woman in the Knesset. Bar Shalom told Al-Monitor that instead of a frontal battle in the High Court, she chose to bypass the ultra-Orthodox parties that are controlled by men and established "a party that deals with unity  not division." Half of the members of the party she established would be women, and on the list presented to the Knesset women and men would alternate, and appear in equal numbers, in accordance with the percentage of women in the population. She said that there are many positive developments in the struggle of ultra-Orthodox women.

Bar Shalom is admired within the ultra-Orthodox Mizrahi community. She established the first ultra-Orthodox college in Israel, encouraging ultra-Orthodox women and men to integrate into the labor market, and won the Israel Prize for this accomplishment four years ago. In previous elections her name has appeared as a possible candidate for the Shas list, but in the end the party leadership, headed by Aryeh Deri, rejected the idea, and she left Shas. She said of Deri, "It's too bad he went to jail and got ruined completely. If it's up to me, Shas is history."

Tzernovisky said that in the next election she would most likely run herself in the primaries for the Labor Party list, noting that the only way to force real change on the ultra-Orthodox parties is through legislation that sets a minimum number of women to participate in all the parties.

The municipal level is the first in which attempts were made by ultra-Orthodox women. In 2013, two ultra-Orthodox women who sought to run for Jerusalem's city council withdrew their candidacy following threats and out of concern for the ramifications for their families.

In the October municipal elections, three ultra-Orthodox women will run for city council, in Jerusalem, Kfar Yona and Sderot. The candidate in Sderot, Madeleine Tuito, is running on a mixed list for ultra-Orthodox candidates from all the ultra-Orthodox parties. This is a small precedent that might signal the start of a change. Until that happens, the ultra-Orthodox parties will continue to discriminate against women and forbid their candidacy in elections on the one hand, and seek their votes at the polls on the other.
The Israeli Knesset's recent adoption of the Nationality Law, anchoring the Jewish character of the State of Israel, has provoked a number of protests, including a mass demonstration on Tel Aviv's Rabin Square on Aug. 4. The demonstrators focused primarily on the law's discriminatory effect on the Druze community.

In a bid to quash protests against the law, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has suggested a compromise to appease the Druze minority. The additional law he envisions would hold in esteem the contribution of the Druze community to the State of Israel in building up the country, strengthening security and fashioning the face of Israeli society as an equal and varied society.

A random visit to any construction site, however, reveals that the contribution of the Arab minority to building the state is no less significant. The same goes for a visit to hospital operating rooms and pharmacy counters. The Druze in Israel number 120,000, or some 1.6% of the population (in addition to 20,000 Druze residents on the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights who are not Israeli citizens), an insignificant figure compared to the 1.7 million Muslim and Christian Arabs who constitute more than 20% of Israels population. Obviously, the relative contribution of Arab Israelis to the shaping of Israeli culture, economy and science is more significant than that of their Druze neighbors.

Despite this, the greater focus is the marked Druze contribution to strengthening security. In terms of military service, the Druze, and the far smaller Circassian minority, indeed have an advantage over the Arab community. Such service is what brought army generals, former heads of Mossad and Shin Bet, and tens of thousands of other protesters to Rabin Square, leaving the Arab community, whose members are not required to enlist, marginalized.

None of the laws that discriminate against Muslim and Christian Israelis who do not serve in the army or those that threaten human rights organizations has shocked Israeli society as has the Nationality Law, which undermines the Israeli ethos of brothers in arms and warrior comradery between Jewish and Druze soldiers. After 70 years after Israels founding and 51 years of military occupation, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) recruitment office remains the main gateway to other realms of Israeli society. Politicians posted on this gate the populist slogan of burden sharing, calling on all citizens to enlist. The Arabs, like the ultra-Orthodox Jews, Druze women and conscientious objectors, have found themselves beyond the pale.

With the establishment of Israel in 1948, the Jewish leadership unofficially shut the IDF's gates to young Muslim citizens. The ruling Mapai decided that only Jews would be allowed to wear the uniform. In fact, for years, the IDF enlistment office practiced a policy of avoiding calling in Arab youths to enlist.

During a 1950 Knesset debate on the Defense Service Law, Arab Knesset member Tawfik Toubi of the Israel Communist Party asked, Why is the government excluding all draft-age Arab citizens from military service, even though many display willingness to perform their duty as civilians who demand all their rights? He described the exclusion of the Arabs from mandatory military service as one of the most salient displays of racial discrimination in government policy, which runs counter to all attempts to acquire the friendship of the Arab multitudes.

In October 1966, David Ben-Gurion, Israels first prime minister, more or less admitted to Toubi that the martial law governing the countrys Arab-populated areas, which was only lifted that year, had undermined the basic principle of equality enshrined in Israels Declaration of Independence. He then, however, explained it away, citing the excuse that the Arabs do not serve in the military, unlike the Jews.

Who is preventing them from being drafted? The government, Toubi countered. According to minutes of the meeting published in an article by Zaki Shalom in the journal Israel Studies, Toubi, an Arab Christian, added, You were Defense Minister for 10 years. You did not call [on the Arabs] to [serve] in the army.

Toubi was likely referring to a 1954 order by then-Defense Minister Pinhas Lavon for the Defense Service Law to apply to all Israelis in order to free the Arab population of a feeling of discrimination and out of a desire to equalize the rights and duties of all residents of the land, thus overriding the policy practiced by the IDF enlistment office. Following Lavon's order, some 20,000 Israeli-Arabs showed up at recruitment centers.

A 1954 report that Lavon commissioned on the attitude of young Arabs called up for compulsory service stated, [They] are expressing their satisfaction with being able to serve in the army and are interested in knowing in what branch they will serve.  Many asked to be assigned to the navy, to tanks.  They were attracted by being able to carry arms and wear a military uniform and by the upcoming opportunity to leave their boring routine lives in Arab society in towns and villages. Interestingly, those older than 20 were clearly very jealous and hopeful that their time would come to be called up, too.

Lavons order was canceled two years later, in 1956.

Menachem Begin, then-leader of the right-wing Herut and subsequent prime minister, was critical of claims that Israeli Arabs did not deserve full equality since they did not serve in the military. In a 1962 Knesset speech, Begin said, This is a strange claim. True. We decided not to obligate Arab residents, as distinguished from the Druze, to perform military service. But we decided this of our own free will. He justified the Arab service exemption by citing a moral reason to the effect that should war break out with Israels Arab neighbors, its Arab citizens would face a harsh test of having to engage in armed combat with their people.

The Arab draft exemption was not, however, motivated by moral scruples, but rather by mistrust of the Arabs' loyalty to the state. The Muslim leadership was also unenthusiastic about young members of the community voluntarily enlisting in the army responsible for the Nakba, the catastrophe that befell them when Israel was established.

The Israeli military occupation of Arab lands that began in 1967, shortly after Israel lifted military rule over its Arab communities, gave further prominence to the issue of dual loyalty and of the demographic demon, the scenario in which Israels Arab population numerically overtakes the Jews.

Israels Arab citizens, despite the expropriation of their lands and budgetary discrimination against them, tend to be integrated into most areas of society. This is reflected by a significant increase in the number of those joining the security services, mostly the police force, under the Ministry of Public Security. Side by side with their Jewish and Druze colleagues, they confront fellow Arabs at violent anti-government demonstrations and foil terror attacks. In the first half of 2016, 1,420 Muslims applied to join the police, three times the number of applicants for all of 2015. That same year, Jamal Hakroush became the highest-ranking Muslim in the police force when he was appointed deputy police commissioner and female Arab officer Dunya Nasser was promoted to superintendent. In the Bedouin town of Rahat, the police launched a youth movement that offers activities for teens, such as riding patrols, and counsels them on various issues.

Israels Declaration of Independence pledges total social and political rights to all citizens, irrespective of their religion, race or sex. According to the newly adopted Nationality Law, life-saving Muslim doctors, irrespective of a patients religion, race or sex, and Muslim police officers safeguarding people's welfare, irrespective of individuals' religion, race or sex, do not deserve equal rights. After all, they are not members of the chosen people, nor have they forged a blood covenant with the Jews, unlike the Druze. They are nothing more than an issue of demographics.
RAMALLAH, West Bank  A magnitude 4.6 earthquake hit the northern part of the Sea of Galilee on July 27, one of the strongest in a series of earthquakes in the northern West Bank in July.

Palestinian officials fear that an earthquake with magnitude 6.5 or higher may cause extensive damage to buildings and even result in casualties given the lack of resources to confront such an incident.

On July 19, Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah met with members of the Supreme Council for Palestinian Civil Defense to discuss earthquake preparedness, and emergency field councils were formed in the West Bank.

In a conversation with Al-Monitor, Jalal Dabbeek, director of the Earth Sciences and Seismic Engineering Center at An-Najah University, reviewed the different scenarios of future earthquakes, the damage they may cause and the means to mitigate losses and mechanisms of an emergency response program.

Palestinians will be the most affected in any future earthquakes due to the lack of emergency response capabilities. Buildings in [the Palestinian territories] are not earthquake resistant, and [Israeli] occupation forces control the borders and crossings and would hamper the response process. Palestinians are thus subject to major damages and losses, Dabbeek said.

He noted that the most important factor determining the extent of the losses are the construction techniques used in the Palestinian territories. Since Palestinian refugee camps are overcrowded with people living in primitively constructed buildings, the damage would be devastating in the event of an earthquake, he said.

Dabbeek pointed out that the danger is not the earthquake itself  no matter how powerful it is  but rather the way buildings are constructed in Palestine. He said that the Engineers Syndicate has drawn up a new construction plan in cooperation with the Ministry of Local Government, several other ministries and the Civil Defense to develop earthquake-resistant buildings and infrastructure.

In addition, he noted that in the event of an earthquake the country could not easily receive foreign aid and relief teams from abroad, without an airport or land crossings they control. Meanwhile, Israel and Jordan would be preoccupied, as neighboring countries, in responding to their own needs. And there is no Palestinian national army that could assist in relief efforts with helicopters or sophisticated communication systems.

According to Dabbeek, preparations are underway in case a strong earthquake hits the country, such as the development of a disaster risk management system by the Palestinian government and its various ministries and agencies. He said that the goal is to create communication channels between the various ministries, institutions and agencies in the governorates on the one hand, and the central institutions and ministries in Ramallah on the other, and to involve the community and all institutions in the response process.

Palestine is located in the Jordan Rift Valley, which is part of the Great Syria-African Rift, bordered to the east by the Arabian Plate and to the west by the African Plate. So there are a number of earth rifts that make it seismic  the most important of which is the Dead Sea Rift, where quakes occur every 80 to 100 years  the last one in 1927. There is also the rift between the Jordan Valley and Mount Carmel, where earthquakes hit every 200 to 250 years  the last one in 1759  in addition to the most dangerous rift located north of the Sea of Galilee, with quakes occurring every 500 to 800 years, Dabbeek explained.

The time has come that those rifts may witness quakes, he noted, adding that should an earthquake hit the northern part of the Sea of Galilee, its force would be enormous.

Dabbeek pointed out that future earthquakes on these rifts could have great strength and little depth, so their impact would be extensive in the densely populated areas where buildings and infrastructure are weak.

If an earthquake hits the northern part of the Sea of Galilee, its first impact would extend to the outskirts of the city of Jenin causing large material and human losses. Then the city of Nablus would be affected, followed by the center of the West Bank, he said.

Dabbeek continued, An earthquake on the Dead Sea Rift would mainly affect the southern regions, especially the Hebron and Bethlehem districts and parts of the Gaza Strip. An earthquake on the rift between the Jordan Valley and Mount Carmel would affect the Jordan Valley and the Galilee as well as Nablus and the outskirts of Ramallah.

The situation does not seem to be much different in Israel. On July 5, Israeli geologist Ariel Haemin warned of a high probability of a devastating earthquake that would kill hundreds. Israeli State Comptroller Yosef Shapira said in a July 18 report that Israeli facilities, such as energy, water, transportation and health-care establishments, are not prepared for the possibility of a devastating earthquake.

The Palestinian Civil Defense classifies earthquakes at the top of its risk scale, according to the spokesman for the Palestinian Civil Defense, Nael al-Azza. He told Al-Monitor that the strategy set by the Supreme Council for Civil Defense is based on communicating with the local public, raising awareness about earthquakes and establishing emergency preparedness committees in cities and villages.

Neighborhood committees are the most important element in the response and rescue process as they would be able to provide assistance before the arrival of specialized teams, Azza said.

He noted that the plan also includes raising the efficiency and capabilities of the Civil Defense, communicating with international relief teams and forming local emergency councils in different governorates.

Azza stressed that the West Bank governorates have put in place a system that includes information on basic services, such as electricity repair, the number of heavy vehicles, ambulances, hospitals and emergency rooms in each governorate, and a plan of action to be implemented at the local level.
Whether youre looking for furniture removals, household removalsor office removalsthere's a smart way to choose a moving house company in Melbourne. Here's what I've learnt the hard way.

You can't afford to be lazy.

Resist the temptation to grab the first removalist companyyou see or follow the advice of auntie Flo whose experience probably dates back to the 1950s. Word of mouth recommendations are a good way to go but, consult a number of people who have recently moved their home or office. You might also want to check out quote comparison websites.

Make use of the Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA)

Organisations such as the Australian Furnitaure Removers Association (AFRA) exist for a reason. They aim to ensure quality control. They accredit removals companies who employ staff who are up to the job. Accredited companies have knowledge of the legal and industrial climate in which they operate. They also employ staff who are properly trained in the operation of moving equipment and manual packing of fragile items. AFRA also requires removals companiesto have certain insurances though these protect the company and NOT YOUR GOODS. Once you have narrowed your search, use AFRA to check that youre on the right track to choosing a house mover or office mover. Check out the list of accredited removals companies at https://afra.com.au/find-a-removalist/

Should I take out insurance to protect my furniture and belongings against loss or damage?

This is usually up to you although some house movers or office movers will insist on it. However, the thing you need to be aware of is that your home or office contents insurance policy will not cover your goods while they are being transported and/or while they are in storage. Unless you have a high tolerance of risk, it's a good idea to take out transit and storage insurance. Your AFRA recommended home or office movers will be able to point you in the right direction.

How much will a mover cost?

Here you need to be a bit savvy. Does the removals company charge a flat rate or by the hour? Is the distance of the move calculated from door to door? What about storage costs? What happens if circumstances mean there is a delay in pick up or delivery? To help in obtaining an accurate quote, it's a good idea to think like a house or office mover. Put yourself in the positon of the guys doing the move. If you were in the business of removalists melbourne or office removals, here are some questions youd want answered to be able to provide an accurate quote. Will there be parking issues or access issues? Are there flights of stairs or a ferocious dog next door? Do you have items that may actually need to be dismantled and reassembled in order to get them through a standard doorway or to clear a standard ceiling? How many of your items are very heavy and will need the furniture movers to lift them mechanically? Of course you may not be able to answer all these questions but, you can provide enough information to allow movers to provide a more accurate quote and to avoid nasty additional costs.

That's great, but can I have it in writing?

Any removals company worth considering will provide you with a written quote. This should include an itemised list of everything, and I do mean everything, you want included in the move. You will also need to work out how many boxes you need and of what size. Here again a good home or office mover will provide general advice. For example, its not a good idea to choose large boxes to fill with heavy items such as books. The weight can be too great to allow the box to be lifted without splitting.

Details, details, details of your

This should be obvious but in my experience, it's not. Check the contract for accurate pick-up and delivery addresses and dates and times of the move. Check the itemised list of goods and especially the details of insurance coverage for loss or damage. In fact read all the terms and conditions. It's tedious but necessary. If you're not 100% sure you're going to go with the removalist whose contract you are perusing, don't pay a deposit or provide credit card details, in case you change your mind.

(by SEO Melbourne)
The application of the permit was filed by Tom Funderburg, president of Post Oak Clean Green Inc., who plans to build a state-of-the-art, double-lined landfill on 450 acres of a 1,200-acre tract off Farm-to-Market Road 1150.
After the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Council, the political wing of the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), sent a delegation to Damascus, cards are being reshuffled. Following the first meeting in Damascus after President Bashar al-Assads declaration of a dual strategy of either negotiations or war for the future of territory controlled by the SDF, an option of reconciliation has actually emerged. It was reported that the government delegation presented a 12-item list of demands that included handing over districts that have government offices in Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor and Hasakah, joint management of oil and natural gas fields by local administrations under the supervision of the government, flying the Syrian flag at border crossings and government buildings, and the gradual termination of contacts with foreign forces.

The Kurdish delegation, however, did not offer much information, simply saying that committees will be set up to prepare for a transition to the phase of negotiations.

This Kurdish-regime dialogue, which was held July 26-27, offered optimism that war may not be the only option, yet there are many obstacles left to overcome. For one thing, the 50,000-strong SDF and the proposed model of democratic autonomy, with its abundant local institutions, are not easy for a centralized system like Damascus to accept. The Syrian regime, without mentioning federation or autonomy, wants to find the middle ground for returning to the 28% of Syrian territory controlled by the SDF without fighting. The status of local law and order forces and the SDF, which is led by the Peoples Protection Units, as well as issues such as the recognition of Kurdish and other local languages, education in the mother tongue, border security and sharing of natural resources are all matters that require time to reach agreement on, if ever.

Although the Kurds say they have no red lines on the table, all of these issues are serious enough to be red lines. That is why although the Kurdish delegation went home optimistic, everyone is still cautious. What made the Damascus meeting meaningful was the official hosting of the current co-chair of the Syrian Democratic Council Ilham Ahmed in Damascus, the delegation's meetings with senior-level regime officials such as Deputy Chief of Staff Brig. Gen. Selim Harba and the decision to set up committees for a transition to the negotiations phase.

The Kurds and their local allies feel the only solution is to spread this model to the entire country. But how?

The critical questions now are what are the proponents of autonomy bringing with them when they sit at the table with Damascus, and what do they expect from the latter? Salih Muslim, who in 2011 emerged as the co-chair of the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD) and has played a key role in promoting the autonomy movement in Europe and served for three terms as the PYD co-chair, the maximum allowed by the partys bylaws, provided Al-Monitor with his assessment of the dialogue with Damascus.

Muslim said none of the parties came to the talks with preconditions, and both gave priority to building confidence between the two sides. Their meetings focused on getting to know each other, probing intentions and trying to understand each other. There was no major issue discussed. As a preliminary step, they decided to set up the committees. The time and scope of the next meeting is not yet known.

The first task of the committees will be to reconcile the democratic autonomy projects and Article 107 of the Syrian Constitution, which refers to local administrations. Muslim denied that the government submitted a 12-item list of demands.

There is no such thing. Issues like Raqqa, Hasakah and Deir ez-Zor were not even mentioned. There is no confidence between the sides. This is why this meeting was to build confidence. Talking, dialogue and negotiations are different phases. So far, we achieved the first phase as a sign of good will, he said.

There is no table yet. Perhaps at the second or third phases. As the Syrian Democratic Council we have a noncentralized democratic autonomy project with its constitution and institutions. We want to spread this model all over the country, Muslim said when asked about the demands of the Syrian Democratic Council.

Asked if their model will be acceptable, he replied, Time will tell. At the moment, the favored option is to win everything with force of guns. If you ask me, the regimes mentality has not changed. We dont know what prompted them to invite us. This is the first time this happened. I cant say that we are discussing this or that now. I am not even sure if confidence is restored. Talks can continue or fail. It depends on the other side. We will find out if the regime is ready or not. We are acting cautiously, Muslim said.

Asked if the Kurds have red lines, Muslim said, We dont have red lines. We have a system. Self-defense forces, democratizations, culture, language and education are part of our projects. The other side, however, is a rigid, inflexible Baathist regime. They have to change. Who knows, it can happen in phases. They understand we have no red lines. Nobody knows if talks will last six months, a year, two years. Democratization can be in phases.

Concerning optimistic assessments that clashes are no longer an option, Muslim said, We dont act on assumptions. We are committed to the interests of our people and decisions of our administration. The regimes mindset has not changed. If they think they can repeat what they have done at Daraa, that would be a disaster. That is up to them, not us. 

Foreign actors in Syria are also following the process closely. Everyone wonders about the United States, which supports the SDF. It is known that the Kurdish delegation met with US special envoy Brett McGurk before going to Damascus. It is said that McGurk advised the Kurdish team to first discuss the problems in public services.

There were allegations that the Kurdish delegation went to Damascus with a US green light, yet Muslim stressed, We didnt ask anybodys permission to go to Damascus. The Americans and Russians are of course interested in Syrias issues and follow developments. But the political decision is ours. We decide what we do. Sure, they may ask what is happening. It is normal to discuss public services.  Postal services, dams and roads are public services. Everybody needs them. We are not trying to wreck those bodies. States institutions are public services. The regimes institutions are soldiers, intelligence services, police and the Baath Party. We always kept them separate. If we succeed in public services, we may make headway on other issues.

Turkeys bargaining behind the scenes to deny Kurds' status is not forgotten as a spoiler factor. Muslim said, Turkey never stopped trying. That doesnt mean Turkey can do whatever it wants. Turkey doesnt want a solution in Syria. This crisis has been going on for seven years only because of Turkey. After all this destruction, it is impossible for Ankara to reconcile with Damascus. If they push further, they will lose.

Asked about the Russian approach, Muslim said, We hear nothing from the Russian side, who has always been with the regime. Our demands are not exclusively for Kurds but represent all other delegations. We are not talking only of the Kurdish issue but northern Syria. I cant predict what the Syrian approach will be.

It is also important to understand how the dialogue was received by the Kurds partners. The Syrian Democratic Council's recent declaration that they are "open for dialogue" was received favorably by other groups.

Upon their return, the Kurdish delegation met to assess the Damascus meeting. Muslim said representatives of major communities  including Manbij, Raqqa and Tabqa  participated in this assessment meeting. There were some reservations, but nobody opposed a dialogue outright.
We've all heard it: You can't fight fire with fire. But what if you can? Science has spoken, and the results prove otherwise. The sweltering Alabama climate can indeed be combated--just not by the usual suspects. Not by ice cream or popsicles (though we still highly recommend). Not by a cold beer or tall glass of sweet tea (also recommended). It can be countered, however, by a steaming bowl of spicy curry or maybe even an order of extra-hot buffalo wings. The fierier, the better. It may seem counterintuitive, but hear us out.

It all has to do with one of our favorite summertime activities here in the South: sweating our biscuit-loving butts off. The science behind it is actually quite simple. Spicy food makes us sweat. Sweat cools us off. So, the spicier the food, the more we sweat, and thus the cooler we become. Bonus if the food is spicy and steamy hot in temperature.

To explain a little more, eating spicy food raises your body's internal temperature to match the temperature outside, causing increased blood circulation. As your stomach and esophagus heat up, your body's natural response is to expel the heat. All the extra activity and added heat results in sweat, starting with gustatory facial sweating (when your face starts sweating after eating spicy food), and as the sweat evaporates from your skin, you cool off.

The concept isn't new either. In fact, it's centuries, even millenniums, old. Just take note of other cultures around the world, namely those in South and Central America, Southeast Asia, Africa, India, and the Caribbean. They all have two things in common: hot weather and even hotter food. Chilis of all shapes, sizes, and spice levels are used prominently in their cuisine, whether that be habanero-heavy hot sauce in Mexico or prik chee fah (chili)-laden Thai red curry. Fun fact: People in countries like Thailand and Mexico consume between 25-200 mg of Capsinoids (a substance naturally present in chilis) daily, while the average central European only consumes about 1.5 mg daily.

But you don't have to travel halfway across the world to get your fill of spicy food or tropical climates--Birmingham has both right in its backyard. We're sharing the spicy secrets of eight of our city's most kicked-up-a-notch dishes. So, the next time you're overcome with Birmingham's unrelenting heat and humidity, try fighting fire with fire.

1. Lava Wings at Wings Plus #3

When you think spicy food, hot wings often are first to come to mind. Deliciously saucy, satisfyingly spicy, and altogether indulgent, buffalo wings are the gameday classic that you crave any day of the year. If truly hot wings are what you desire, then look no further than the Lava Wings at Wings Plus #3 on Greensprings Highway. Tucked into an unassuming strip mall, Wings Plus #3 doesn't mess around when it comes to heat. The flavoring is typical of buffalo wings with a vinegary kick, but the heat is more than a cut above the rest. The sauce's color alone--a blazing bright red--is enough to scare many away. Once you take a bite, the thick, dripping sauce provides a slow burn that intensifies as it marinates the chicken--and your lips! You can get 15 wings for $13.99, so it's a pretty cheap heat fix, as well.

437 Green Springs Hwy. | 205.942.649

2. Spicy Chicken and Vegetables in Flaming Pan at Great Wall Chinese Restaurant

The "secret" menu at Great Wall hasn't been secret in quite some time, but we still like to think of this Chinese dining hotspot as one of Birmingham's hidden gems. Their menu is full of authentic Chinese dishes, with an emphasis on Szechuan cooking prepared by a real, certified Szechuan chef. Each Szechuan master chef has his or her own special chili sauce--Great Wall's is made with more than 20 spices including dried chilis, garlic, star anise, clove, nutmeg, and bay leaves. It shines best in the Flaming Pan dishes, stir-fries with a choice of meat or seafood in a metal pan lined with chopped raw onion and whole dried chilis. The Spicy Chicken and Vegetable Flaming Pan includes bell peppers, carrots, green onion, wood ear mushrooms, and pressed tofu, all served over a lit burner. Not immediately flaming in spice level, the well-balanced dish brings together sweet, salty, savory, and spicy flavors that build into a tingling, lip-numbing heat that's attributed specifically to Szechuan peppercorns. The heat's as satisfying as it is unique. Plus, you can always ask them to adjust the heat level to your preference.

706 Valley Ave. | 205.945.1465 | greatwallbirmingham.com

3. Prawn Chili Masala with Bullet Naan and Mirchi Pakoras at Silver Coin Indian Grill

The triple threat of spice can be found at this Hoover eatery that offers an extensive menu of Indian staples like curries, masalas, vindaloos, tandooris, and more. At Silver Coin, most entrees can be customized to your taste for spice, with four heat levels ranging from mild to extra (also referred to as Indian) hot. Beware: It may take some convincing to get the chef to prepare your dish at full "Indian Heat" level, if he doesn't know you can handle it.

The Prawn Chili Masala, king-sized prawns cooked in a flavorful sauce of bell pepper, onion, tomato, and a generous helping of the restaurant's special ground chili powder mix, is one of the best ways to set your mouth aflame, as the recipe doesn't allow for any cream or cashew milk to temper the heat. For an added kick, order a side or starter of Mirchi Pakoras, fresh raw serrano peppers fried in a light coating of chickpea powder infused with paprika, fennel, caraway seeds, and more chili powder. The spicy peppers are fried whole, seeds and all, so there's no holding back the heat. You might think a nice order of fluffy naan could provide relief, but not if your order the Bullett Naan--it's speckled with garlic and more fresh serrano peppers.

3321 Lorna Road | 205.823.9070 | silvercoinusa.com

4. Weeping Tiger at Taste of Thailand

The name of this dish says it all. Popularly known on most menus as "Thai Beef Salad," Taste of Thailand's version of the dish more than lives up to its creative title. If tigers could cry, it'd no doubt be from the mouth-numbing spice in this dish. The salad starts harmlessly enough with marinated flank steak in a blend of soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. The cooked steak is served atop a bed of romaine leaves, tomato, cucumber, cilantro, and red onion--again, all harmless. So, what makes the simple salad so scary? The absurd amount of red pepper flakes mixed into the sauce and sprinkled over the top of the dish. The accompanying sweet and vinegary flavors hardly stand up to the spice if you get the dish "Thai Hot," but for those less inclined to walk away with eyes watering (or lips numb), ordering the dish at a more manageable mild or medium is advised.

3321 Lorna Road #3 | 205.978.6863 | tasteofthailandbirmingham.com

5. Stupid Hot Jumbo Tenders at Eugene's Hot Chicken

Zebbie Carney learned to make hot chicken the real way, modeling his sweet, smoky, and spicy seasoning rub after what many consider the pioneer in Nashville-style hot chicken: Prince's. First a popular food truck and now a fast-casual (and extremely busy) lunch spot in Uptown, Eugene's has quite the following for its super-flavorful hot chicken. Unlike buffalo wings, Eugene's chicken features a sweet (dry) heat devoid of biting vinegar. The spices fully coat and flavor the chicken, as the spice blend is mixed with hot oil, then basted onto freshly fried chicken. The best way to get the extreme heat is with an order of Eugene's Stupid Hot Jumbo Tenders; the scale starts at Southern (no heat) and works its way up. The massive, crispy, juicy tenders will have your eyes watering and nose running in no time, so a side of ranch or white barbecue sauce is recommended.

2268 9th Ave. N. | 205.322.7555 | eugeneshotchicken.com

6. Spicy Miso Ramen (with Spice Bomb) at Shu Shop

Birmingham's only Izakaya and Ramen House, Shu Shop is the late-night spot downtown deserves. And Chef Jason Templin's Spicy Miso Ramen is the hot, spicy dish Birmingham spice enthusiasts deserve. The ramen's base is a mix of seaweed broth and miso broth, made with multiple types of miso paste, as well as fermented bean paste, house-made chili paste, crushed red pepper, ginger, garlic, cayenne pepper, and generous amounts of onion. It has a pleasant heat that's heightened by the addition of the restaurant's special Spice Bomb--a dangerously spicy, thick paste made with a cooked down blend of Thai, American, and Mexican chilis, as well as ginger and vinegar. Proceed with caution, though; even the tiniest teaspoon of the concoction will have you sweating from the double whammy of the ramen's hot temperature and spicy flavors. Toppings of braised and smoked chasu, cured egg, Brussels sprouts, green onion, butter-sauteed shiitakes, and corn shoots bring texture and layers of flavor to the spicy soup.

1830 3rd Ave. N. | 205.291.6660 | shushopbham.com

7. Tacos with Jalapeno Bacon and Habanero Puree at Rojo

This Latin and American restaurant has been a staple in the Highland Park neighborhood for the past 16 years. Over that time, owners Clark Lopez and Laney Dejonge have proven they know the secret to keeping happy customers. For one, you've got to give them what they want. Lopez says he noticed early on that the neighborhood didn't love spicy food, so Rojo toned down its recipes for house salsa and queso; however, for the heat seekers out there, they created something even more satisfying: habanero puree. The devilish mix of fresh habaneros, pureed whole with cilantro, salt, lime, and garlic is served alongside and on top of anything customers desire, from grilled steak tacos (pictured) to corndogs and chicken fingers. The spicy sauce is dangerous, with a strong initial heat and an even stronger afterburn, so just a drizzle will do. Another restaurant secret: the recipe is adjusted each week depending on how hot the habaneros are, meaning you'll never have to worry about a weak batch. A sprinkle of salty jalapeno bacon over the top adds a smoky spice to the blistering habanero heat.

2921 Highland Ave. | 205.328.4733 | rojobirmingham.com

8. Shocker Burger at Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint

Jack Brown's just celebrated their fourth anniversary serving up delicious burgers to the Birmingham community. The Lakeview restaurant is every bit as busy today as it was when it first opened--and for good reason. They make a damn good burger. One hundred percent all-natural Wagyu beef is used in the patties that are hand-formed and seasoned simply with salt and pepper. Martin's potato rolls provide the soft, buttery vessel, and then creative toppings are up to your taste. For spice enthusiasts, there's no other burger than the Shocker. And shocking it is. The burger is topped with two slices of melted pepper jack, as well as fresh sliced jalapenos and habaneros, plus Jack Brown's special Shocker Sauce, made with habaneros, Louisiana Original Hot Sauce, sriracha, and other "spicy secrets" that can't be told. It truly hurts so good.

2811 7th Ave. S. | 205.203.4512 | jackbrownsjoint.com

--Photos by Wes Frazer

This story appears in Birmingham magazine's August 2018 issue. Subscribe today!
A Tuscaloosa firm has announced a partnership to build a plant in China.

Inventure Renewables will work with Wilmar International and Desmet Ballestra Group to begin construction on a new facility in Jiangsu province, China.

Construction of the plant, which will bolt on to an existing Wilmar facility, will begin in the first quarter of next year.

Inventure specializes in taking waste products produced in manufacturing and finding new applications for them. The firm already collaborated on a a $50 million distillation plant in Taizhou, China. That venture takes waste produced by vegetable oil refining and produces a bio-diesel fuel, while at the same time distilling Vitamin E from it.

This new Chinese venture will utilize the firm's recently developed soap carbonate technology, which converts low-value processing residues into valuable, uncontaminated free fatty acids.

John Brown, Inventure's COO, said the firm's technology was already being used by Wilmar to produce biodiesel from vegetable oil feedstocks.

"The announcement of the new plant is a validation of our soap carbonate technology, and of our ability to walk a project from research to reality," Brown said, in a statement.
The country's largest mattress retailer is considering filing for bankruptcy and may close its non-profitable locations, according to reports.

Reuters reported Mattress Firm is looking to shut down some of its 3,000 stores that are losing money. The report comes as Mattress Firm's South African owner, Steinhoff International Holdings, is working on a deal to restructure debt for the chain.

Steinhoff acquired Mattress Firm for $3.8 billion in 2016.

The chain is the latest U.S. retailer to face struggling times in wake of increasing competition from online vendors and popularity among sites that deliver mattresses to your home with free trials. More than 27 percent of mattress purchases are currently made online and that figure is expected to grow.

Mattress Firm operates more than 3,600 locations in 48 states.
Lawmen in east Alabama seized eight horses as part of an ongoing animal cruelty investigation.

Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver said deputies responded Friday to several calls of horse out on County Road 14. They found the horses and noticed they were in poor condition.

Investigators immediately launched a probe and carried out a search warrant both at a suspect's home and on his property. During the search, Shaver said, deputies found numerous other animals, birds and reptiles which were turned over to Cherokee County Animal Control.

The sheriff said the horses were examined by Dr. Jeremy Deaton, the county's veterinarian, and it was determined that obvious neglect had taken place.

The owner, David L. Waller, 51, was charged with aggravated animal cruelty and allowing livestock to run at-large. Waller was arrested in Georgia by the Clayton County Sheriff's Office on Monday and will be extradited to the Cherokee County Detention Center.
A woman who was convicted last year in a case that had been unsolved for more than 20 years will not have her appeal heard by a state appeals court.

The Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals affirmed Tricia Abney's capital murder conviction and sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. The court announced their decision in an order list issued Friday.

Abney, now 43, was charged in July 2015 with capital murder during the course of a robbery for the stabbing death of Justin Barnett, who disappeared in 1995. A Jefferson County jury deliberated for less than a full day before finding Abney guilty of that same charge, and then decided unanimously during a penalty phase to sentence her to life in prison. For Abney to have been put to death, jurors would have had to vote in favor of the death penalty by a 10-2 vote.

Abney did not take the stand during her trial.

The remains of Barnett, who was 23-years-old when he was killed in an east Birmingham apartment, have never been found.

Barnett disappeared on the night of June 3, 1995. He and his girlfriend, Sheila Horton, had split up for the evening to go to separate parties with their friends. When Horton returned to the couple's Southside apartment around 2 a.m. the next morning, Barnett was not there. He never came home, and Horton never heard from him again.

The case went cold for 20 years, until Abney's brother Johnathan Abney came forward to Birmingham police in 2015. He told investigators he had information about a two-decades old murder case, and said his sister was involved. Johnathan Abney said a man who was dating his sister at the time, Jeff Martin, was also involved in the crime; but, when Birmingham police detectives went to Mobile to speak with Martin, he refused

Several days later, Martin committed suicide.

According to Johnathan Abney, he was at a bowling alley on the night Barnett disappeared. When his sister and Martin picked him up and came back to the apartment, Johnathan Abney said he was led into the bathroom and saw Barnett's legs hanging over the bathtub. Barnett's head and arms had been cut off and placed in trash bags on the bathroom floor, Johnathan Abney said.

Jefferson County Deputy District Attorneys Kylie Jernigan and Neal Zarzour prosecuted the case. Emory Anthony and Wakisha Hazzard represented Abney.
A Memphis man, accused of fatally shooting one man and being responsible for another's death, had his cases sent to the grand jury Monday.

Oscar Lee Woods III is charged with capital murder and felony murder in connection with the May 11 deaths of Tavarius Jamal Bryant of Hoover and Christopher Bryant of Memphis. Following a preliminary hearing Monday, Jefferson County Circuit Judge Michael Streety bound over both cases to a grand jury for possible indictment.

The two victims were not related to each other.

The shooting happened shortly after 3:30 a.m. that Friday at The Cliffs at Rocky Ridge apartment complex. Once on the scene, Hoover police officers found 22-year-old Tavarius Bryant lying on a sidewalk between the parking lot and the apartment's breezeway, and he was pronounced dead on the scene. Officers said Tavarius Bryant was able to return shots toward his attackers before he died.

Less than two hours later, Hoover and Birmingham police were notified that another gunshot victim had been dropped off at Princeton Baptist Medical Center and pronounced dead on arrival. That victim was later identified as 25-year-old Christopher Bryant.

Hoover police Capt. Gregg Rector said Woods and Christopher Bryant were at the same club as Tavarius Bryant hours before the shooting occurred. "At some point a plan was devised to rob Tavarius Bryant,'' Rector said. "Apparently Woods and Chris Bryant didn't expect Tavarius to also be armed with a handgun."

According to police, the investigation showed that Christopher Bryant and Woods were robbing Tavarius Bryant outside of the Hoover apartment when gunfire was exchanged. Christopher Bryant and Woods fled the scene and went to a home in Bessemer. After about 90 minutes, two women dropped off Christopher Bryant at the hospital.

The capital murder charge, made capital because authorities say the murder was committed in the course of a robbery, stems from the death of Tavarius Bryant. The felony murder charge stems from the death of Christopher Bryant--Woods' friend. Under Alabama's felony murder law, a person can be charged with murder if they are participating in a felony crime that results in death, whether or not that person actually pulled the trigger.

Woods remains held without bond in the Jefferson County Jail.

Deputy District Attorney Joe Hicks is prosecuting the case; Victor Revill is representing Woods.
Derreck Walker had his capital murder case sent to the grand jury after a hearing Monday (JCSO)

Family members of a woman who investigators say was slain by her husband were visibly emotional during a hearing today, and the accused man had to be taken out of the courtroom at one point to compose himself.

Dereck Jamaille Walker, 46, is charged with capital murder during the course of a burglary for the April shooting of his estranged wife Habibba Moneque Walker. Dereck Walker fled the scene, and was arrested the next day in Escambia County, Florida.

Habibba Walker died five days later, a medical examiner ruling that she died of a gunshot wound to the head and a subsequent brain injury.

Habibba and Dereck Walker were separated, but police were not sure if their divorce was finalized at the time of her death.

Dereck Walker was brought back to Alabama and appeared in court Monday morning for a preliminary hearing. Following testimony from Jefferson County sheriff's Det. David Owen, Bessemer Division Circuit Judge Reginald Jeter bound the case over to a grand jury for possible indictment.

During the hearing, several of Habibba Walker's family members were visibly emotional. At one point, Dereck Walker himself had to be taken out of the courtroom to control his own emotions.

Owen said he responded to Habibba Walker's house in the 300 block of Trenton Street on April 16, after receiving reports of a shooting. When officers arrived, they found Habibba Walker lying at the bottom of a staircase in the back of the home with a gunshot wound to the head. First responders transported the 45-year-old to a local hospital, where she later died.

When police arrived on the scene, neighbors were taking care of Habibba Walker's 9-year-old twins who fled the home, according to Owen. He talked with the children, who said their dad-- Dereck Walker-- broke a front window and climbed inside the house. The twins told police Dereck Walker dropped his gun while climbing inside, but retrieved it and walked to the back of the home where he shot Habibba Walker. Neighbors found her wounded at the bottom of the stairs, grabbed the kids, and called police.

At the scene, Owen said deputies found spent shell casings, fingerprints on the window, and a small drop of blood. He also said a neighbor reported seeing Dereck Walker's car in the area earlier that day.

Habibba Walker had recently moved to Trenton Street to get away from Dereck Walker after their separation, Owen said.

According to Owen, Dereck Walker turned himself into Florida authorities the next day and confessed to shooting his wife. He told police the gun he used was inside the glove box of his car, so Jefferson County sheriff's deputies went to Florida and retrieved the car. During a search of the car back in Alabama, Owens said officers found a handgun, one spent shell casing, several magazines, and a brown jacket.

Dereck Walker was then extradited to Jefferson County and again confessed to shooting his wife, Owen said. According to Owen, Dereck Walker also said he and Habibba Walker were separated but had been communicating for the past several months. Dereck Walker claimed they were seeing each other "physically and romantically," and had recently met up at Dereck Walker's workplace to have sex.

According to Owen, Dereck Walker said the day before the shooting he received text messages containing a video of Habibba Walker with another man. Owen said that video "set [Dereck Walker] off."

Dereck Walker told police that after the shooting, one of his children called him from his wounded wife's cell phone. Dereck Walker said he then took apart his phone and tossed the pieces out of his car window and over a bridge. Police never recovered his phone.

When one of Dereck Walker's attorneys Bret Gray asked Owen if Dereck Walker may have been invited to the house on the day of the slaying, the victim's family became visibly upset. "You go through windows when you get invited?" one called out.

Owen said Dereck Walker never claimed to be invited to the house, and claimed during his interview that he was on his way to take a drug test when he decided to go to Habibba's house.

At one point during the hearing, while Owen was discussing the couple's marital status, Dereck Walker became visibly upset and was escorted out of the courtroom. The victim's family became upset, too.

"That's the same rage that killed my sister," one of Habibba Walker's relatives yelled. "He's got nothing to be mad about," yelled another.

After several minutes, Dereck Walker returned and the hearing continued.

Before Jeter bound over the case, Gray argued there was no evidence to support the burglary claim- which makes the murder charge capital- and that the case should be sent to the grand jury as murder. Assistant District Attorney Lane Tolbert disagreed, and said there isn't any indication Dereck Walker was welcome at Habibba Walker's new home.

Dereck Walker is being held in the county jail without bond.

Court records show in 2011, Habibba Walker filed for an order of protection from Dereck Walker. That case was dismissed in October 2016, after she made a motion to dismiss the order.

Assistant District Attorney Chuantae Brown is also prosecuting the case, and Kathy-Ann Alexis is also representing Dereck Walker.
The investigation into the shooting death of a Hoover teen is ongoing and police say they have developed a person of interest in the slaying.

Casey Nicole Kizer, 17, was killed July 27 somewhere behind the Home Depot on U.S. 280 in Sylacauga. Little information has been released in the case, but Sylacauga Police Chief Kelley Johnson said investigators are working to build a case in the teen's death.

The shooting happened just before midnight that Wednesday. A friend of Kizer's called 911 dispatchers, said that her friend had been shot and they were en route to Coosa Valley Medical Center.

The chief said Sylacauga police officers responded to the hospital and secured the scene upon arrival. Kizer was pronounced dead on arrival.

Johnson on Monday said investigators are still processing and analyzing evidence but said they believe they know what happened to Kizer. "I can't disclose anything right now because we don't want to put too much out there,'' Johnson. "No one is in custody, but we have a person of interest. We're just waiting to be able to make charges."

He said they have met with the Talladega County District Attorney's Office and are still waiting on analysis of a key piece of evidence in the case.

Kizer at one point attended Spain Park High School but was not enrolled during the past school year. According to her obituary, she was a graduate of Valleydale Christian Academy and was looking forward to beginning her college career at UAB in the fall. "She loved spending time with her dog, being outdoors at the lake and playing softball with her many friends she made through the years,'' her obituary reads. The family held visitation on July 29 and later held a private funeral.

Anyone with information is asked to call the department's Investigation Division at 256-401-2450, 256-401-2464. To report a tip anonymously, call 256-249-4716.
After many years in the making, multiple LGBTQ organizations are coming together to host a black gay pride in Birmingham from August 17-19.

Known as Bham Black Pride, the series of events will include an awards banquet honoring advocates of the black LGBTQ community, an empowerment seminar, a black gay pride party at Saturn, an interfaith service and will close out with a community picnic at Bessie Estell Park complete a kid zone and two DJs playing house music. All events are free with the exception of the banquet which costs $15 per person or $22.50 per couple.

To see a full schedule of events, you can click here.

Bham Black Pride was created to celebrate, uplift and support the black LGBTQ individuals - a community that is often caught in the crossfire of racism and homophobia, head organizer Christopher McCummings said.

"We are a red state," McCummings said. "A lot of things (Alabama does) don't seem to be for the LGBTQ community period just like we don't do anything healthy and good for the black community. So when you hold both titles, that despairs you even more."

McCummings said gay prides for black individuals provides spaces where people can be themselves while also getting the resources that may be lacking in the community. Black same-sex couples are three times as likely as white same-sex couples to live in poverty, according to a national survey conducted by The Williams Institute, UCLA Law School and the LGBTQ Poverty Collaborative. This same study concluded that the unemployment rate among transgender people of color is four times higher than the average U.S. unemployment rate.

Black gay prides have existed since 1991, when the first official Black and Lesbian Gay Pride Day was planned in Washington, D.C. According to the Center of Black Equity, a global nonprofit supporting, 34 black pride events have been scheduled across the nation this year. That's four more than were scheduled in 2013. The largest events are held in Atlanta, D.C. and Los Angeles.

Small gatherings for black LGBTQ individuals have been planned in the past, but this will be the first black gay pride for the city that has a corporate sponsor. McCummings started thinking about a celebration for Birmingham while promoting an event for black lesbians in 2006. McCummings gathered with a group of black LGBTQ members to start planning Birmingham's black pride in 2010, but he said the idea was tabled due to lack of funding.

He continued talking about the idea with Tony Christon-Walker, director of prevention and community partnerships for AIDS Alabama, who was able to help McCummings secure sponsorships from businesses like Viiv Healthcare, a pharmaceutical company specializing in HIV therapies.

Other groups who are helping with the festivities include Blk Pearl, a Birmingham-based organization providing safe leisurely and learning environments for Southern LGBTQ women of color living at or below the poverty line, statewide LGBTQ advocacy organization Equality Alabama and the Center of Black Equity. McCummings said Central Alabama Pride, which hosted its annual gay pride celebration in June, has also reach out to help.

"They realize that, 'Although we have this huge pride and we are all in this thing together, you are still this marginalized segment of people who don't get an opportunity to really express and do the things that you need to do.'" McCummings said. "Black Pride is the place where we can find comfort in both our blackness and queerness away from either of the communities that have yet to fully embrace us. This is not a petty, 'We have our own pride.' This is, 'We've needed a black gay pride to help us manage the ramifications of racism and bigotry.'"

While the point of black prides is to serve the black LGBTQ community, McCummings said the festivities are open to all. McCummings especially wants to appeal to the black LGBTQ youth, who experienced the highest rates of homelessness in a University of Chicago study. He said that LGBTQ youth are suffering from depression and struggling with drug abuse because they don't have support in their homes, schools and churches.

"I am hearing from the youth that they are afraid. I am hearing 'There aren't people out there like us,'" he said. "You kind of feel like you're in here by yourself. You are alone. No one is there to talk to you, encourage you or validate you. That's one of the things that we want this pride to help change."

People from different professions will be speaking during the empower conference event, which will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton on Aug. 18 from 9 am until 2 p.m. Free HIV/AIDs testing will also be provided. Black LGBTQ authors will also be having a book fair.

McCummings said it is important that the black LGBTQ youth see successful professionals who look like them because they are told that they are not to live a fulfilling life.

"There is a mindset like, 'OK they are nothing. They aren't going to do anything or be anything. There are a number of things that I'm hearing like, 'You're a disgrace to the family,'" McCummings said. "So, we want to change that dynamic and that works for the children and there is also a partnership that we can make with the parents who are struggling with this problem of understanding their child."

McCummings stressed that this isn't a segregated pride. All people of all walks of like are invited to join the fun.
In the framework of Vietnams visit, mission team of Guinea Bissau led by Minister of Trade, Tourism and Handicrafts Vicente Fernandes, the team had a working session with T&T Group yesterday in Hanoi



Vietnam agreed to buy 150,000-200,000 tons annually which is equivalent to Guinea Bissaus annual raw cashew. At present, Guinea Bissau ranks the fifth largest raw cashew nut producer in the world.

At the working session, the Guinea Bissau government is committed to ensuring output, quality, delivery deadlines and payment channels.

Also, the two sides exchanged the possibility of exporting Vietnamese rice to Guinea Bissaus market in the years to come.

Additionally, T&T Group promised to provide training in the field of agriculture and technology transfer to Guinea Bissau.

Speaking in the signing ceremony, Minister Vicente Fernandes said that the two sides have many similarities as they are both agricultural countries. Guinea Bissau has a high demand of rice imports while Vietnam is one of the world's top rice exporters whereas Vietnam needs more raw cashew which Guinea Bissau is large exporter of the agro-product.

Present at the signing ceremony, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Do Thang Hai said that the great potential for rice and cashew exports between both sides, congratulating Guinea Bissau to choose a reliable partner like T&T Group.

By C.D  Translated by UYEN PHUONG
The suspect accused in the brutal slaying of a Birmingham man who was shot and then set on fire to destroy evidence is now behind bars.

Rajuar Akeil Key, 37, was booked into the Jefferson County Jail Monday. He remains held on $100,000.

The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office in late July announced a murder warrant against Key in the February killing of Monty Lewayne Davis, 29.

Davis's body was discovered about 11:15 pm on Saturday, Feb. 24, when deputies responded to a report of a brush fire off the side of the road in the 300 block of Mulga Loop Road near the Minor Community. Once the fire was extinguished, deputies discovered the remains.

Days before the discovery, family members had posted on Facebook that Davis was missing, and that his mom and sister were worried sick. His sister said she last spoke with Davis several days earlier when he told her he would be home by 11 p.m. because he had to go to work. They tried to call him, but said his phone, starting the following morning, went straight to voicemail.

Chief Deputy Randy Christian said evidence indicated Davis had been shot elsewhere and then dumped off the side of Mulga Loop Road. Sheriff's detectives immediately began investigating the murder. They followed up leads from anonymous tips and family members to determine who had last seen Davis alive.

With information from the initial investigation and investigative support from the Metro Area Crime Center, detectives developed Key as the suspect in the murder.

Christian said detectives learned that, on the night he was killed, Davis went to Key's residence on Eufaula Avenue in Birmingham. While he was there, Key accused him of stealing marijuana from him and owing him money. The two men began arguing and then fighting. Key pulled out a pistol and shot Davis.

Key then took the body to Mulga Loop Road and set it on fire to destroy evidence and to prevent or prolong the identification process, said Christian.

Sheriff's officials said Key surrendered to authorities on Monday. His first court appearance is set for Wednesday.
An Alabama Death Row inmate had his appeal denied by the state's highest criminal appeals court.

Gregory Hunt's conviction and death sentence were affirmed by the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals, the court announced Friday in its weekly order list.

Hunt, now 58, is currently on death row at Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore. He was convicted in 1990 for a murder in Walker County.

Hunt was part of a multi-plaintiff lawsuit that was dismissed earlier this summer. Court records show John Palombi, a federal public defender for the Middle District of Alabama, and Deputy AG Thomas Govan filed a motion to dismiss the case because the inmates named in the lawsuit elected a new form of execution, which was made legal in June. Because the inmates opted to die by nitrogen hypoxia instead of lethal injection, their claims in the lawsuit were considered moot.

The case was originally filed in 2012 by death row inmates, including several who have been executed since that time. The case focused on what the inmates said were challenges to the constitutionality of Alabama's current three-drug method of execution, which includes the sedative midazolam.

According to the joint motion, Gov. Kay Ivey signed into state law on March 22 a bill that approved nitrogen hypoxia as a method of execution. Under the amended law, lethal injection will remain the primary method of capital punishment, but inmates sentenced to die will be provided an opportunity to choose nitrogen hypoxia instead.

Each surviving plaintiff in the suit-- Hunt, Carey Dale Grayson, Demetrius Frazier, David Lee Roberts, Robin Dion Myers, Geoffrey Todd West, Charles Lee Burton, and David Wilson-- chose the method of nitrogen hypoxia and alerted the Alabama Department of Corrections.

Details regarding the state's planned protocol for execution by nitrogen hypoxia, or when the state would be able to implement the method, have not been released.
City officials in Huntsville are refusing to release body camera video and other records regarding a police officer who is charged with murder in the shooting of a mentally-ill man.

The Huntsville City Attorney's Office has denied a public records request from AL.com for Officer William Darby's personnel file and records relating to the fatal shooting of 49-year-old Jeffrey Parker.

The shooting was captured by multiple officers' body cameras. Prosecutors said the footage was included in evidence presented to a grand jury, which voted to indict Darby on Friday. Police Chief Mark McMurray said at a press conference that Darby "is by no means a murderer." The chief didn't take questions from reporters, and a gag order has since been issued by the judge.

"Much of what you have addressed concerns investigative material and is not considered public record," said Assistant City Attorney Eddie Blair in an email to AL.com

In Alabama, police departments generally deny requests to release body camera videos.

Dennis Bailey, an attorney for the Alabama Press Association, said courts haven't yet clarified whether body camera video is public record.

"There's a good argument for that being considered public record," Bailey said.

In Mobile, TV station WALA/FOX10 is suing the city for release of body camera footage of an incident in which a group of McGill Toolen students were pepper sprayed.

"The outcome of that case will give us insight into what the law may be," Bailey said of the TV station's lawsuit.

In Huntsville, the city also has denied AL.com access to Darby's personnel file, despite a longstanding 1995 opinion from then-Attorney General of Alabama, Jeff Sessions, which says personnel files of government employees are considered public records.

There are some exceptions for medical or other personal information, Bailey said.

"When such information is requested, the party refusing to disclose should remember it has the burden of proving the information requested falls within an exception to the Open Records Act," Sessions' 1995 opinion says.

The city of Huntsville didn't say which laws exempt it from disclosing the requested records. The city attorney's office didn't respond to a follow-up email from AL.com.

"Since this matter is now a pending case, we would not be able to address your request, as anything involving a party to that case could be considered evidence," Blair said in his email.

Bailey said that although Darby's personnel file might be included in the investigative file, that doesn't mean it's no longer a public record.

"The Supreme Court has said the fact you've given the public record to an investigator doesn't mean it's no longer public record," Bailey said.

Additionally, the city has pointed to a gag order issued by Madison County Circuit Judge Donna Pate as justification for denying AL.com's public records request.

However, the judge's order only applies to parties in the criminal case, which include the Madison County District Attorney's Office, Darby, his defense team and law enforcement.

"The city would not be a party to the gag order," Bailey said. "Usually a gag order prohibits the trial participants from speaking to the press. It should have no effect on what's a public record and it should have no effect on the records custodian releasing public records."

Darby, a two-year employee of HPD, fatally shot Parker on April 3. Parker called police that day, saying he was suicidal and had a gun, according to the police department. Officers briefly talked with Parker at the scene on Deramus Avenue and commanded him to drop the gun, the department said. When Parker didn't drop the gun, Darby shot him, the police said.

Darby and two other officers were placed on desk duty at the time of the shooting, but a review board later cleared them.

Murder is punishable by up to life in prison.
It wasn't a vacation but last week's trip to Washington was a little out of the ordinary for Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle.

Battle made his first trip to the White House last Thursday, meeting with Trump administration officials on an array of issues as part of a group of elected officials from Alabama and Louisiana invited to the nation's capital.

The meetings focused on priorities for Trump but also included discussion on local issues. For Battle, that meant the Spring Pygmy sunfish that is threatened to throw the brakes on the construction of the $1.6 billion Mazda Toyota Manufacturing USA facility.

The sunfish - a rare inch-long fish found only in a Limestone County spring near the plant site - came up during a meeting with Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke.

The Center for Biological Diversity has announced intent to file a lawsuit against Mazda Toyota and the city of Huntsville if work on the site is not halted until preservation of the sunfish habitat can be secured. Zinke was copied on the notice of intent on the lawsuit.

The CBD also filed a lawsuit in June against Zinke and others regarding the sunfish habitat.

"We asked him about the sunfish and he said he had been sued by a lot of people and those are some of the people who have sued him," Battle said. "The sunfish was on his radar. We just wanted to make sure it was on his radar."

Bellefonte Nuclear Plant in Jackson County in northeast Alabama also came up during a meeting with Mark Menezes, under secretary for the U.S. Department of Energy.

"It was kind of interesting, they knew the project," Battle said. "The end result was they believe in nuclear, they just have to make sure it's doable. They didn't say there was no strong commitment for Bellefonte or against Bellefonte, more that there were questions about it they still had to get answered."

Nuclear Development LLC, which is in the process of purchasing the mothballed nuclear outside Scottsboro, has applied for $5 billion in loans from the Department of Energy.

Other speakers included Attorney General Jeff Sessions on the Department of Justice, Trump senior adviser Kellyanne Conway about the opioid crisis, assistant Education Secretary Frank Brogan and deputy assistant Secretary of Transportation Finch Fulton.

Battle said a theme that emerged from the speakers was an eagerness to work with both Republicans and Democrats.

The event included a tour of the White House and meetings across the street at the Executive Office Building.

"It's the first time as mayor I've been able to sit there and listen to what an administration is doing and what their functions were and be able to ask questions and have input," Battle said. "No matter what you think, there has to be a lot of credibility to do that.

"It was enlightening for me because we got first-hand knowledge about what people are working on on a daily basis in the executive branch of the government."

The meeting sessions typically allowed for 15 or 20 minutes for a speaker, then about 20 minutes for questions from the audience, Battle said.

"You came out feeling like you were at least heard and able to talk with your federal government," he said.
A Tennessee man's plan to propose to his girlfriend on a Florida beach almost failed when he lost the ring in the Gulf of Mexico.

For 45 minutes last Friday, Taylor Farrar of Sevierville, Tennessee, and his friends frantically searched for the plastic bag that held the ring, a bank card and a driver's license. The News Herald reports it washed up under the feet of Sandy Osborn who was visiting Panama City Beach from Florence, Alabama.

Osborn held onto the bag and happily handed it over when Farrar's friends asked if she'd seen it.

Farrar says he appreciates Osborn's honesty. He immediately proposed to girlfriend Cassandra Arn, who said yes.

Osborn says she cried during the proposal. And Arn invited her to the wedding.
U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions, accused by fellow church members of child abuse for promoting a policy that separates immigrant children from their families when they are detained for illegal entry at the U.S. border, has been cleared of the charges by a church review.

The complaint was forwarded to Ashland Place United Methodist Church in Mobile, where Sessions is a member.

Those who filed the church complaint were outraged by Sessions quoting the Bible, Romans 13, which calls for Christians to obey the law, as justification for his policy on separating immigrant families at the border.

Bringing an official church complaint was a way of communicating that to Sessions. More than 600 people signed on to the complaint.

The district superintendent who oversees the Ashland Place Church reviewed the complaint.

The letter of complaint against Sessions cited the United Methodist Book of Discipline, the denominations rulebook, saying his conduct violated codes against child abuse and racial discrimination.

The Rev. Debora Bishop, a district superintendent in Mobile, dismissed the complaint.

"The judicial process of the United Methodist Church cannot be used in the matter of United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions to address political actions," she wrote in her opinion. "A political action is not personal conduct when the political officer is carrying out official policy. In this matter, Attorney General Jeff Sessions was carrying out the official policy of the President and/or the United States Department of Justice. It was not an individual act. I believe this type of conduct is not cover by the chargeable offense provisions of The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church."

Bishop David W. Graves, head of the Alabama-West Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church, issued a statement saying he agreed with the decision.

The complaint against Sessions had been organized by the Rev. David Wright, chaplain at the University of Puget Sound in Washington State.
A homeless man, who was released on parole less than a year ago, is indicted on seven capital murder charges for the slayings of a 7-year-old boy, great-grandmother and another elderly woman.

Jimmy Spencer

Jimmy Spencer, 52, is held without bail in the Marshall County jail. He's was arrested July 17 for the Guntersville slayings of 65-year-old Martha Dell Reliford, 74-year-old Marie Kitchens Martin and Martin's great-grandson, 7-year-old Colton Ryan Lee.

Lee, from Huntsville, was visiting his great-grandmother's Mulberry Street home when Spencer robbed and killed them last month, prosecutors have said. Reliford also was robbed and killed at her home across the street, according to police.

Spencer is indicted on seven counts: three for killing someone while serving a life sentence, two for murder during a robbery, one for killing a child under 14 and another count for killing two or more people during one crime spree, records show.

Spencer was scheduled for a preliminary hearing Wednesday, but that has been canceled because of the grand jury indictments. At the preliminary hearing, the judge would be tasked with ruling whether prosecutors have probable cause for the charges. Initially, Spencer was charged with four counts of capital murder. John Young, chief investigator for the Marshall County District Attorney, said the grand jury voted to add the three counts for murder while serving a life sentence.

"Even though he was on parole, he's still got the life sentence," Young said.

If convicted of capital murder, Spencer will face either the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Alabama's largest victims' advocacy group has questioned why Spencer was released on parole and free to kill the three Guntersville victims.

Spencer first went to prison in the early 1980s for burglary. He was arrested several more times in Franklin County through the years and eventually sentenced to life. He escaped from prison in 1993 and was charged with more property crime crimes that took place while he was on the run. According to the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles, Spencer was granted parole in November 2017, and released from prison in January. From there, he went to a halfway house in Birmingham. Spencer then met a man from Marshall County and ended up in Guntersville in April.

Investigators said the convict was homeless -- sleeping on park benches or in ditches and occasionally staying at local shelters.

Janette Grantham, director of Victims of Crime and Leniency, last week lashed out at the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles for its handling of the Spencer case.

Spencer was arrested on June 15, 2018 in Boaz for possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest, and attempting to elude a police officer. His bond was set at $3,000. "His parole should have been revoked,'' Grantham said in a press release. "Yet a month later he was still free to murder three innocent victims."

The bodies of Martin and Lee were found by police the afternoon of July 13. Investigators said they aren't sure when the killings happened. Martin was strangled and stabbed, while Lee was killed by blunt force trauma.

Reliford also was found dead the same evening. Reliford's cause of death was blunt force trauma. Young said she was hit with the flat side of a hatchet and stabbed.

In a typically-quiet Guntersville, police on the day the bodies were found also investigated a fourth death. The death of James Michael Baker is believed to have resulted from natural causes. He had been reported missing in Albertville.
A meteor recently hit the earth about 26 miles away from Thule Air Base in Greenland. (Contributed photo/US Air Force)
An Orlando man was killed Monday after his vehicle was involved in a collision near Atmore.

Robby Hudson Dalsasso, 56, was killed when his 2014 Freightliner struck a tree and caught fire, according to a press release from the Alabama State Troopers. It's not clear if Dalsasso was hauling at the time of the crash.

Dalsasso was pronounced dead at the scene, the 63.7 mile marker on Interstate 65.



Law enforcement are continuing to investigate.
The administration of Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson is proposing a new stormwater management fee, in a measure that will come before the Mobile City Council on Tuesday.

"When I first stepped into office, Mobile was the poster child for stormwater mismanagement," Stimpson said in a Monday statement explaining the proposal. "As the rainiest city in America, this is a serious problem. Now, we are well on our way to becoming the poster child for stormwater excellence. This funding will help us better protect our natural resources and create a cleaner, greener community."

According to the administration statement, the state legislature this year authorized municipalities to collect storm water fees. If approved, the Mobile fee will be collected by the Mobile County Revenue Commissioner along with ad valorem taxes.

For residential properties, the fee will be $10 per year. For commercial space or commercial property it will be a half-cent per square foot, up to a maximum of $3,000 per year. It will not override current property tax exemptions and will not apply to greenfields or agricultural land.

According to the administration statement, "all fees will be allocated to stormwater activities to improve the water quality of city waterways."

Applications include the elimination of illicit discharges into waterways, development of a stormwater monitoring system, enforcement of controls on construction and the presentation of public education activities.

Under normal council procedure, the council will hold over the measure at least one week before voting.

Update: On Tuesday, Council Vice President Levon Manzie referred the proposal to a committee to be let by Councilwoman Gina Gregory. Gregory said that committee will meet on Thursday, Aug. 16, meaning a vote likely won't come until the council's Aug. 21 meeting.
[August 06, 2018] RingCentral Announces Second Quarter 2018 Results RingCentral, Inc. (NYSE: RNG), a leading provider of global enterprise cloud communications and collaboration solutions, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2018. Second Quarter Financial Highlights Total revenue increased 34% year over year to $161 million.

Software subscriptions revenue increased 32% year over year to $146 million.

Annualized Exit Monthly Recurring Subscriptions (ARR) increased 32% year over year to $630 million.

RingCentral Office ARR increased 37% year over year to $548 million.

Enterprise ARR increased over 110% year over year to $122 million.

GAAP operating margin was (2.9%), down 0.7 points year over year, while non-GAAP operating margin was 8.8%, up 1.8 points year over year. "We had an outstanding second quarter, led by continuing strength in our mid-market and enterprise businesses and momentum from our channel partners. Our enterprise business again grew triple digits with significant wins from landing new logos and expanding into existing enterprise accounts," said Vlad Shmunis, RingCentral's founder, chairman and CEO. "We believe our relentless focus on product innovation continues to differentiate us in the marketplace and it underpins our broad-based momentum. With our growing lead in the cloud communications industry and the large underpenetrated market opportunity in front of us, we believe we are well positioned to achieve our goal of exceeding $1 billion in revenue in 2020." New Accounting Standard The Company adopted the new standard related to revenue recognition (Topic 606) effective January 1, 2018. The financial information in this press release is prepared in accordance with Topic 606, and the comparison period amounts used to calculate growth rates are based on amounts that have been adjusted from previously reported amounts to conform to the requirements of Topic 606. Financial Results for the Second Quarter 2018 Revenue and Gross Margin: Total revenue was $161 million for the second quarter of 2018, up from $120 million in the second quarter of 2017, representing 34% growth. Total GAAP gross margin was 76.3% for the second quarter of 2018, up 1.0 points compared to 75.3% in the second quarter of 2017.

Total revenue was $161 million for the second quarter of 2018, up from $120 million in the second quarter of 2017, representing 34% growth. Total GAAP gross margin was 76.3% for the second quarter of 2018, up 1.0 points compared to 75.3% in the second quarter of 2017. Net Income (Loss) Per Share : GAAP net loss per share was ($0.10) for the second quarter of 2018 compared with ($0.03) for the second quarter of 2017. Non-GAAP net income per diluted share was $0.19 for the second quarter of 2018, compared with $0.10 per diluted share for the second quarter of 2017.

: GAAP net loss per share was ($0.10) for the second quarter of 2018 compared with ($0.03) for the second quarter of 2017. Non-GAAP net income per diluted share was $0.19 for the second quarter of 2018, compared with $0.10 per diluted share for the second quarter of 2017. Balance Sheet: Total cash and cash equivalents at the end of the second quarter of 2018 was $567 million, compared with $555 million at the end of the first quarter of 2018. Recent Highlights RingCentral was added to the Russell 1000 index after equity markets closed on June 22, 2018. The Russell 1000 index is comprised of the largest 1,000 companies across various Russell indexes. The Russell Indexes are widely used by investment managers and institutional investors as index funds and benchmarks for both active and passive investment strategies. Approximately $8.6 trillion in assets are benchmarked against the Russell indexes.

RingCentral added Japanese and Brazilian Portuguese language support to its end points and admin portal. This provides fully localized experience for end users and administrators located in global offices in Japan and Brazil.

Announced RingCentral has been ranked #1 in IHS Markit's 2018 North American Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) Scorecard. Named the leader for the second consecutive year, RingCentral achieved this recognition due to its market share position, business growth, product capabilities, and continued traction among mid-market and large enterprise businesses.

RingCentral Glip was recognized as an industry leader in the 2018 Aragon Research Globe for Mobile Collaboration report. Glip was chosen as an industry leader because of its mobile first design, best-in-class user experience and ability to serve as a digital communications hub and increase workforce productivity.

RingCentral won the 2018 API Award for best in communication APIs, given by API World. RingCentral was recognized for technical innovation and adoption by the developer community. Financial Outlook Full Year 2018 Guidance: Raising software subscriptions revenue range to $595 to $600 million, representing annual growth of 28% to 29%. This is up from our prior range of $588 to $594 million and annual growth of 26% to 28%.

Raising total revenue range to $649 to $656 million, representing annual growth of 29% to 30%. This is up from our prior range of $638 to $647 million and annual growth of 27% to 28%.

Raising GAAP operating margin range to (3.5%) to (2.9%), up from the prior range of (4.0%) to (3.4%).

Raising non-GAAP operating margin range to 8.2% to 8.4%, up from the prior range of 8.1% to 8.3%.

Raising non-GAAP EPS range to $0.66 to $0.70 based on 86.0 million fully diluted shares. This is up from our prior range of $0.61 to $0.65. Third Quarter 2018 Guidance: Software subscriptions revenue range of $152.0 to $154.0 million, representing annual growth of 27% to 28%

Total revenue range of $165 to $168 million, representing annual growth of 27% to 29%

GAAP operating margin range of (4.5%) and (3.5%)

Non-GAAP operating margin range of 8.0% and 8.2%

Non-GAAP EPS range of $0.15 to $0.17 based on 86.0 million fully diluted shares For a reconciliation of our forecasted non-GAAP operating margin, see "Reconciliation of Forecasted Operating Margin GAAP Measures to Non-GAAP Measures." We have not reconciled our forecasted non-GAAP EPS to GAAP EPS because we do not provide guidance on it. We do not provide guidance on forecasted GAAP EPS because of the inherent uncertainty and complexity involved in forecasting the intercompany remeasurement gain (loss), which could be a significant reconciling item between the non-GAAP and respective GAAP measure. The intercompany remeasurement gain (loss) is affected by the movement in various exchange rates relative to the US Dollar, which is difficult to predict and subject to constant change. Accordingly, a reconciliation of the non-GAAP financial measure guidance to the corresponding GAAP measure is not available without unreasonable effort. Conference Call Details: What: RingCentral financial results for the second quarter of 2018 and outlook for the third quarter and full year of 2018.

RingCentral financial results for the second quarter of 2018 and outlook for the third quarter and full year of 2018. When: Monday, August 6, 2018 at 2:00PM PT (5:00PM ET).

Monday, August 6, 2018 at 2:00PM PT (5:00PM ET). Dial-in: To access the call in the United States, please dial (877) 705-6003, and for international callers, dial (201) 493-6725. Callers are encouraged to dial into the call 10 to 15 minutes prior to the start to prevent any delay in joining.

To access the call in the United States, please dial (877) 705-6003, and for international callers, dial (201) 493-6725. Callers are encouraged to dial into the call 10 to 15 minutes prior to the start to prevent any delay in joining. Webcast: http://ir.ringcentral.com/ (live and replay).

http://ir.ringcentral.com/ (live and replay). Replay: Following the completion of the call through 11:59 PM Eastern Time on August 13, 2018, a telephone replay will be available by dialing (844) 512-2921 from the United States or (412) 317-6671 internationally with recording access code 13681614. Investor Presentation Details An investor presentation providing additional information and analysis can be found at http://ir.ringcentral.com/. About RingCentral RingCentral, Inc. (NYSE: RNG) is a leading provider of global enterprise cloud communications and collaboration solutions. More flexible and cost-effective than legacy on-premises systems, RingCentral empowers today's mobile and distributed workforce to communicate, collaborate, and connect from anywhere, on any device. RingCentral unifies voice, video, team messaging and collaboration, conferencing, online meetings, and integrated contact center solutions. RingCentral's open platform integrates with leading business apps and enables customers to easily customize business workflows. RingCentral is headquartered in Belmont, California, and has offices around the world. 2018 RingCentral, Inc. All rights reserved. RingCentral, RingCentral Office, RingCentral Glip and the RingCentral logo are trademarks of RingCentral, Inc. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements," including but not limited to, statements regarding our future financial results, our GAAP and non-GAAP guidance, our revenue growth and our expectation of exceeding $1 billion in revenue by the end of 2020, our strength in the mid-market and enterprise segments, and our channel partner momentum, our growing lead in the cloud communications industry and our market opportunity. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on assumptions that may prove to be incorrect, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expected or implied by the forward-looking statements. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements are: our ability to grow at our expected rate of growth; our ability to add and retain larger and enterprise customers and enter new geographies and markets; our ability to continue to release, and gain customer acceptance of, new and improved versions of our services; our ability to compete successfully against existing and new competitors; our ability to enter into and maintain relationships with carriers and other resellers; our ability to manage our expenses and growth; and general market, political, economic, and business conditions, as well as those risks and uncertainties included under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," in our Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2018, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and in other filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to RingCentral as of the date hereof, and we undertake no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, to review or confirm analysts' expectations, or to provide interim reports or updates on the progress of the current financial quarter. Non-GAAP Financial Measures Our reported financial results and financial outlook include certain Non-GAAP financial measures, including Non-GAAP software subscriptions gross margin, Non-GAAP other gross margin, Non-GAAP operating margin, Non-GAAP operating income (loss), Non-GAAP net income (loss) and Non-GAAP net income (loss) per diluted share. Non-GAAP software subscriptions gross margin is defined as Non-GAAP subscriptions gross profit divided by GAAP subscriptions revenue. Non-GAAP other gross margin is defined as Non-GAAP other gross profit divided by GAAP other revenue. Non-GAAP operating income (loss) is defined as operating income (loss) excluding share-based compensation, amortization of acquisition intangibles, and acquisition related matters. Non-GAAP operating margin is defined as Non-GAAP operating income (loss) divided by total GAAP revenue. Non-GAAP net income (loss) is defined as GAAP net income (loss) excluding share-based compensation, intercompany remeasurement gains or losses, acquisition related matters, amortization of acquisition intangibles, non-cash interest expense associated with amortization of debt discount and issuance costs related to our convertible senior notes, and the related income tax effect of these adjustments. Non-GAAP diluted shares outstanding include the impact on shares used in per share calculations of our outstanding capped call transactions. Our outstanding capped call transactions are anti-dilutive in GAAP earnings per share but are expected to mitigate the dilutive effect of our convertible notes and therefore will be included in the calculations of non-GAAP diluted shares outstanding. We have included Non-GAAP software subscriptions gross margin, Non-GAAP other gross margin, Non-GAAP operating margin, Non-GAAP net income (loss) and Non-GAAP net income (loss) per diluted share in this press release because they are key measures used by us to understand and evaluate our operating performance and trends, to prepare and approve our annual budget, and to develop short and long-term operational plans. In particular, the exclusion of certain expenses in calculating Non-GAAP software subscriptions gross margin, Non-GAAP other gross margin, Non-GAAP operating margin, Non-GAAP net income (loss), and Non-GAAP net income (loss) per diluted share provide useful measure for period-to-period comparisons of our business. Although Non-GAAP software subscriptions gross margin, Non-GAAP other gross margin, Non-GAAP operating margin, Non-GAAP net income (loss), and Non-GAAP net income (loss) per diluted share, are frequently used by investors in their evaluations of companies, these non-GAAP financial measures have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for financial information presented in accordance with GAAP. Because of these limitations, these non-GAAP financial measures should be considered alongside other financial performance measures. Reconciliations of the Company's non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP measures has been provided in the financial statement tables included in this press release. Other Measures Our reported results also include our annualized exit monthly recurring subscriptions, RingCentral Office annualized exit monthly recurring subscriptions, enterprise annualized exit monthly recurring subscriptions and net monthly subscriptions dollar retention. We define our annualized exit monthly recurring subscriptions as our monthly recurring subscriptions multiplied by 12. Our monthly recurring subscriptions equal the monthly value of all recurring charges in effect at the end of a given month. We believe this metric is a leading indicator of our anticipated subscriptions revenue. We calculate our RingCentral Office annualized exit monthly recurring subscriptions in the same manner as we calculate our annualized exit monthly recurring subscriptions, except that only customer subscriptions from RingCentral Office customers are included when determining monthly recurring subscriptions for the purposes of calculating this key business metric. We calculate enterprise annualized exit monthly recurring subscriptions in the same manner as we calculate our annualized exit monthly recurring subscriptions, except that only customer subscriptions from customers generating $100,000 or more in monthly recurring revenue are included, We define Dollar Net Change as the quotient of (i) the difference of our Monthly Recurring Subscriptions at the end of a period minus our Monthly Recurring Subscriptions at the beginning of a period minus our Monthly Recurring Subscriptions at the end of the period from new customers we added during the period, (ii) all divided by the number of months in the period. We define our Average Monthly Recurring Subscriptions as the average of the Monthly Recurring Subscriptions at the beginning and end of the measurement period.





TABLE 1 RINGCENTRAL, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited, in thousands) June 30, December 31, 2018 2017 *As Adjusted Assets Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 567,280 $ 181,192 Accounts receivable, net 67,015 46,690 Deferred sales commission costs 19,140 15,424 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 24,643 21,512 Total current assets 678,078 264,818 Property and equipment, net 55,076 43,298 Deferred sales commission costs, noncurrent 47,085 37,871 Goodwill 9,393 9,393 Acquired intangibles, net 21,128 1,462 Other assets 2,569 2,972 Total assets $ 813,329 $ 359,814 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities Accounts payable $ 6,366 $ 7,322 Accrued liabilities 76,382 54,977 Current portion of capital lease obligation 943 - Deferred revenue 73,240 62,917 Total current liabilities 156,931 125,216 Convertible senior notes, net 356,788 - Capital lease obligation 2,829 - Other long-term liabilities 5,757 6,252 Total liabilities 522,305 131,468 Stockholders' equity: Common stock 8 8 Additional paid-in capital 508,728 434,840 Accumulated other comprehensive income 2,795 2,998 Accumulated deficit (220,507 ) (209,500 ) Total stockholders' equity $ 291,024 $ 228,346 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 813,329 $ 359,814 * Prior-period information has been adjusted for the adoption of ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which we adopted on January 1, 2018. TABLE 2 RINGCENTRAL, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Unaudited, in thousands, except per share data) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2018 2017 2018 2017 *As Adjusted *As Adjusted Revenues Software subscriptions $ 145,959 $ 110,896 $ 282,919 $ 215,026 Other 14,873 9,023 28,256 17,127 Total revenues 160,832 119,919 311,175 232,153 Cost of revenues Software subscriptions 26,716 21,795 51,242 42,058 Other 11,350 7,766 22,498 14,809 Total cost of revenues 38,066 29,561 73,740 56,867 Gross profit 122,766 90,358 237,435 175,286 Operating expenses Research and development 24,814 18,617 47,465 35,704 Sales and marketing 79,023 56,361 150,943 110,626 General and administrative 23,583 18,007 45,032 33,812 Total operating expenses 127,420 92,985 243,440 180,142 Loss from operations (4,654 ) (2,627 ) (6,005 ) (4,856 ) Other income (expense), net Interest expense (4,836 ) (9 ) (6,247 ) (88 ) Other income, net 1,338 578 1,411 700 Other income (expense), net (3,498 ) 569 (4,836 ) 612 Loss before income taxes (8,152 ) (2,058 ) (10,841 ) (4,244 ) Provision for income taxes 139 57 166 108 Net loss $ (8,291 ) $ (2,115 ) $ (11,007 ) $ (4,352 ) Net loss per common share Basic and diluted $ (0.10 ) $ (0.03 ) $ (0.14 ) $ (0.06 ) Weighted-average number of shares used in computing net loss per share Basic and diluted 79,089 75,867 78,717 75,278 * Prior-period information has been adjusted for the adoption of ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which we adopted on January 1, 2018. TABLE 3 RINGCENTRAL, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Unaudited, in thousands) Six months ended June 30, 2018 2017 *As Adjusted Cash flows from operating activities Net loss $ (11,007 ) $ (4,352 ) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities Depreciation and amortization 11,476 7,842 Share-based compensation 30,864 19,562 Amortization of deferred sales commission costs 8,673 5,543 Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs 6,154 - Foreign currency remeasurement (gain) loss 778 (463 ) Provision for bad debt 1,137 1,003 Deferred income taxes 11 (12 ) Other 210 113 Changes in assets and liabilities Accounts receivable (21,462 ) (4,711 ) Deferred sales commission costs (21,603 ) (14,605 ) Prepaid expenses and other current assets (2,795 ) (2,623 ) Other assets (626 ) 501 Accounts payable (499 ) (1,427 ) Accrued liabilities 17,736 3,136 Deferred revenue 10,323 7,969 Other liabilities (495 ) (24 ) Net cash provided by operating activities 28,875 17,452 Cash flows from investing activities Purchases of property and equipment (11,856 ) (8,814 ) Capitalized internal-use software (5,367 ) (3,488 ) Cash paid for acquisition of intangible assets (18,470 ) - Restricted investment - 530 Net cash used in investing activities (35,693 ) (11,772 ) Cash flows from financing activities Proceeds from issuance of convertible senior notes, net of issuance costs 449,457 - Payments for capped call transactions and costs (49,910 ) - Repurchase of common stock (15,000 ) - Proceeds from issuance of stock in connection with stock plans 11,729 17,449 Taxes paid related to net share settlement of equity awards (2,986 ) (1,118 ) Repayment of debt - (14,840 ) Repayment of capital lease obligations (741 ) (181 ) Net cash provided by financing activities 392,549 1,310 Effect of exchange rate changes 357 (330 ) Net increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 386,088 6,660 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Beginning of period 181,192 160,355 End of period $ 567,280 $ 167,015 * Prior-period information has been adjusted for the adoption of ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which we adopted on January 1, 2018. TABLE 4 RINGCENTRAL, INC. RECONCILIATION OF OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) GAAP MEASURES TO NON-GAAP MEASURES (Unaudited, in thousands) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months ended June 30, 2018 2017 2018 2017 *As Adjusted *As Adjusted Revenues Software subscriptions $ 145,959 $ 110,896 $ 282,919 $ 215,026 Other 14,873 9,023 28,256 17,127 Total revenues 160,832 119,919 311,175 232,153 Cost of revenues reconciliation GAAP Software subscriptions cost of revenues 26,716 21,795 51,242 42,058 Stock-based compensation (1,136 ) (997 ) (2,012 ) (1,722 ) Amortization of acquisition intangibles (150 ) (150 ) (301 ) (301 ) Non-GAAP Software subscriptions cost of revenues 25,430 20,648 48,929 40,035 GAAP Other cost of revenues 11,350 7,766 22,498 14,809 Stock-based compensation (165 ) (41 ) (299 ) (73 ) Non-GAAP Other cost of revenues 11,185 7,725 22,199 14,736 Gross profit and gross margin reconciliation Non-GAAP Subscriptions 82.6 % 81.4 % 82.7 % 81.4 % Non-GAAP Other 24.8 % 14.4 % 21.4 % 14.0 % Non-GAAP Gross profit 77.2 % 76.3 % 77.1 % 76.4 % Operating expenses reconciliation GAAP Research and development 24,814 18,617 47,465 35,704 Stock-based compensation (3,906 ) (2,342 ) (7,000 ) (4,201 ) Acquisition related matters - (178 ) - (443 ) Non-GAAP Research and development 20,908 16,097 40,465 31,060 As a % of total revenues non-GAAP 13.0 % 13.4 % 13.0 % 13.4 % GAAP Sales and marketing 79,023 56,361 150,943 110,626 Stock-based compensation (7,189 ) (3,926 ) (12,230 ) (7,451 ) Amortization of acquisition intangibles (1,099 ) (76 ) (2,015 ) (180 ) Non-GAAP Sales and marketing 70,735 52,359 136,698 102,995 As a % of total revenues non-GAAP 44.0 % 43.7 % 43.9 % 44.4 % GAAP General and administrative 23,583 18,007 45,032 33,812 Stock-based compensation (5,201 ) (3,321 ) (9,323 ) (6,115 ) Non-GAAP General and administrative 18,382 14,686 35,709 27,697 As a % of total revenues non-GAAP 11.4 % 12.2 % 11.5 % 11.9 % Income (loss) from operations reconciliation GAAP loss from operations (4,654 ) (2,627 ) (6,005 ) (4,856 ) Stock-based compensation 17,597 10,627 30,864 19,562 Amortization of acquisition intangibles 1,249 226 2,316 481 Acquisition related matters - 178 - 443 Non-GAAP Income from operations 14,192 8,404 27,175 15,630 Non-GAAP Operating margin 8.8 % 7.0 % 8.7 % 6.7 % * Prior-period information has been adjusted for the adoption of ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which we adopted on January 1, 2018. TABLE 5 RINGCENTRAL, INC. RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME (LOSS) GAAP MEASURES TO NON-GAAP MEASURES (In thousands, except per share data) (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2018 2017 2018 2017 *As Adjusted *As Adjusted Net Income (loss) reconciliation GAAP net loss $ (8,291 ) $ (2,115 ) $ (11,007 ) $ (4,352 ) Stock-based compensation 17,597 10,627 30,864 19,562 Amortization of acquisition intangibles 1,249 226 2,316 481 Acquisition related matters - 178 - 443 Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs 4,784 - 6,154 - Intercompany remeasurement loss (gain) 749 (435 ) 1,023 (478 ) Income tax expense effects ** - - - - Non-GAAP net income $ 16,088 $ 8,481 $ 29,350 $ 15,656 Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share Reconciliation between GAAP and non-GAAP weighted average shares used in computing basic and diluted net income / (loss) per common share: Weighted average number of shares used in computing net loss per share 79,089 75,867 78,717 75,278 Effect of dilutive securities 6,579 6,192 6,604 5,579 Non-GAAP weighted average shares used in computing non-GAAP net income per share 85,668 82,059 85,321 80,857 GAAP Net loss per share $ (0.10 ) $ (0.03 ) $ (0.14 ) $ (0.06 ) Non-GAAP Net income per share $ 0.19 $ 0.10 $ 0.34 $ 0.19 * Prior-period information has been adjusted for the adoption of ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which we adopted on January 1, 2018. ** The non-GAAP adjustments do not have an impact on our income tax provision due to our continued history of non-GAAP losses and full valuation allowance. TABLE 6 RINGCENTRAL, INC. RECONCILIATION OF FORECASTED OPERATING MARGIN GAAP MEASURES TO NON-GAAP MEASURES (In millions, except per share data) (Unaudited) Q3 2018 FY 2018 Low Range High Range Low Range High Range GAAP revenues 165.0 168.0 649.0 656.0 GAAP loss from operations (7.5 ) (5.9 ) (22.8 ) (18.9 ) GAAP operating margin (4.5 %) (3.5 %) (3.5 %) (2.9 %) Stock-based compensation 19.4 18.4 71.0 69.0 Amortization of acquisition intangibles 1.3 1.3 5.0 5.0 Non-GAAP income from operations $ 13.2 $ 13.8 $ 53.2 $ 55.1 Non-GAAP operating margin 8.0 % 8.2 % 8.2 % 8.4 % View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180806005563/en/

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Naples, Italy  On Thursday in Naples, 32-year-old Senegalese street vendor Cisse Elhadji Diebel was about to collect his wares and go home, when he was shot three times by two strangers on a scooter by the central train station.

One of the bullets hit his femur, for which he has undergone surgery. Another missed him. The third is now lodged in the phone he was carrying in his pocket.

While gun and gang violence have long marred Naples, alarm bells are ringing over the rapid rise in racist assaults  at least 33 across the country in the past two months, according to Italian weekly LEspresso.

In another attack, on June 11, two Malian refugees living in a migrant centre near Caserta, a city north of Naples, were also shot at from a vehicle.

The victims told local media that the shooters had shouted slogans in support of Matteo Salvini, Italys new interior minister and leader of the far-right League party, who won support in the March 4 election.

Bouyagui Konate, chef from Mali

In what is now almost a routine, migrant and diaspora communities organise protests every time there is a violent assault, to demonstrate against racism.

Bouyagui Konate, a 22-year-old chef from Mali, was among those who rallied after Cisse Elhadji Diebel was hit.

On June 20, he himself was hit in the stomach by a pellet fired from an air gun by men he didnt know in a passing car.

So far theres no news on the investigation, Konate told Al Jazeera, speaking of his own experience. If they were actually looking, they would have found them. Its full of cameras on that street. If theyd been caught and prosecuted, the same things wouldnt keep happening.

In Italy since the age of 17, Konate, who speaks perfect Italian, attended a chef training course, opened a restaurant in the city centre with a group of refugees, and took part in a TV culinary talent show.

His next project is a multicultural food truck that will tour Italy.

He said he has noticed a shift in attitudes in the past few months.

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The atmosphere has changed since the election campaign, which was done at the expense of migrants, talking about an invasion and migrants stealing Italians jobs, Konate said. And the person propagating this is a public figure, a politician now in power, he added, referring to Salvini. There were attacks before, but now theyre using guns. Were a step up.

Salvini, who is also co-deputy prime minister, has denied ships carrying refugees and migrants docking rights at Italian ports and called for a census in order to deport Roma without citizenship.

But claims of a racism problem in Italy are an invention of the left, he has said, explaining that Italians are tired.

Italys Interior Minister Matteo Salvini has rallied against immigration and ethnic minorities [File: Stefano Rellandini/Reuters]

Italys other Deputy Prime Minister, the Five Star Movements Luigi di Maio, is equally as dismissive. He has said that there is no such thing as a racism emergency in recent interviews.

Grazia Naletto, who heads the anti-racist watchdog Cronache di Ordinario Razzismo (Chronicles of Ordinary Racism), part of the NGO Lunaria, says it is difficult to keep track of racially-motivated violence.

Racist violence reported by the media is only a part of it, including verbal violence. Often, victims dont come forward. And when these episodes appear in the local media, they are often reported as cases of ordinary violence, the racist motive is sometimes not mentioned, Naletto told Al Jazeera.

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Even so, Lunaria keeps a record of racist incidents and violence and publishes regular reports.

From January 1 to March 31, the organisation counted 169 incidents ranging from physical violence to someone being refused medical assistance by a doctor, based on the victims ethnicity.

Police do not regularly publish hate crime statistics in Italy.

In 2016, OSCEs Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), which monitors hate crime among participating countries, reported 803 as recorded by police, with the majority based on racism and xenophobia.

When an Italian takes a gun and hits a migrant, it is like the government fired the shot. Ndiaye Elhadji Omar, Senegalese migrant and uncle of shooting victim

But numbers dont tell the full story.

Victims who are not Italian citizens or regular residents may refrain from reporting to the police out of a fear of being identified and eventually deported.

Police have downplayed the racism motive in previous attacks.

A notable example is the killing of Senegalese street vendor Idy Diene in Florence, a day after the Italian election.

Police quickly ruled out racism, but the Senegalese and Muslim communities were not convinced.

Prosecutors talked about futile motives, arguing the attacker had chosen a random target after giving up on the idea of committing suicide.

What we have found not only in the past few weeks but since the beginning of the year, is that there have been several cases of violence that have unfolded with the same dynamics, Naletto said. A street aggression by a small group of people in a car that stops and [they] pick a black person as a target, or someone near a reception centre.

One-year-old Roma child among latest victims

At least eight possibly racist shootings have been reported since the beginning of July, of which seven were carried out with air guns, which can still lead to serious injuries.

On July 17, a one-year-old Roma child was shot in the back in Rome by a former government employee. The shooter would later claim he had fired to test the gun.

On July 2, a Nigerian woman was shot in the foot in Forli, in central Italy, by someone on a scooter.

Three days later in the same city, a 33-year-old Ivorian man was hit in the abdomen in another drive-by shooting.

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On July 11 in Latina, a city south of Rome, two Nigerians were hit by a barrage of BB gunshots fired from a passing car with three young people inside. The perpetrators were later identified and reported to police for bodily injury, with the aggravating circumstance of racial discrimination.

On July 26, a metal pellet struck an electrician, originally from Cape Verde, while he was working on scaffolding. Local media reported that upon being questioned, the shooter  who fired from his balcony  said he had wanted to hit a pigeon.

On July 27, a 19-year-old Senegalese barman was beaten near Palermo while the attackers yelled racist insults at him. This episode was caught on camera and the two attackers, 33 and 37, are being prosecuted. The racist motive was recognised in this case.

And last week, a Moroccan man was killed after a car chase in Aprilia, south of Rome. Three men, who later said they believed him to be a thief, decided to take justice into their own hands, and later denied any racial motive. The killing, and whether the Moroccan mans death was a result of the accident or the beating that ensued, are being investigated.

The Senegalese community called for a demonstration on August 3 after Cisse Elhadji Diebel was shot [Ylenia Gostoli/Al Jazeera]

Naletto says that Chronicles of Ordinary Racism had warned about normalising racist speech in 2009.

Today, we think we are in a phase where weve made a qualitative leap: from normalisation and legitimation, we are now talking about reclaiming the act, a step further, Naletto said.

In the past few months, we have seen several cases where violence not only took place, but the perpetrator also took responsibility for the act. And whenever this was done online, it was supported by countless messages of support, which were as violent.

While acknowledging that recent developments have stoked racism, such as having an openly xenophobic party such as the League at the helm, she believes that the polarisation of Italian society has taken place over several years.

For us long-term migrants, we have seen the repercussions of bad reception, said Ndiaye Elhadji Omar, the uncle of Cisse Elhadji Diebel, the Senegalese vendor shot last Thursday, referring to Italys dysfunctional migrant system.

Elhadji has lived in Italy since 1993 and is a social worker at a reception centre.

The government parks people in reception centres. It takes up to two, three years before they go through the [asylum] commission and get a stay permit, without the opportunity to learn the language or integrate, Elhadji said.

When an Italian takes a gun and hits a migrant, it is like the government fired the shot.
South Sudans warring factions have finally agreed on a new power-sharing deal to end the brutal civil war that killed tens of thousands, displaced an estimated 3 million others and devastated the fragile economy of the new nation.

President Salva Kiir, former vice president and rebel leader Riek Machar, and other factions signed the accord on August 5, in which they committed themselves to the cessation of hostilities, demilitarisation of civilian centres, the disengagement and cantoning of forces, and a 36-month transitional arrangement. Under the deal, Kiir will remain president while Machar will be reinstated as first vice president, one of five vice presidential positions. The accord also envisions a Council of Ministers which will have 35 ministers (20 from Kiirs party, 9 from Machars, and 6 from other parties), and a transitional parliament which will have 550 seats (332 for Kiirs party, 128 for Machars, and, the remaining 90 for other parties).

Since the start of hostilities in 2013, two years after the countrys independence, the two factions have agreed and violated several accords, sometimes within hours of signing. The government in South Sudan insists that the current deal is organic and will hold. President Salva Kiir contends that, unlike the 2015 peace deal, which was forced on them, the current deal is negotiated and agreed by all parties and that his government is committed to it.

The 2015 agreement, which Kiir describes as an external imposition, was sponsored by the US and Britain and brokered by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). A central pillar of this peace deal was the establishment of two important institutions that would help South Sudan overcome the complex process of national reconciliation, healing, and nation-building: the Commission on Truth, Reconciliation and Healing, and the Hybrid Court for South Sudan.

The US and Britain insisted that they would not recognise any reservations or addendums while Kiir and Machar saw some of the provisions, particularly the one on the establishment of the Hybrid Court, which had the aim of investigating, prosecuting and punishing those responsible for the atrocities, as unworkable and a serious obstacle to peace. Under the current accords, there is no mention of a court or accountability mechanism while a provision is made for a national process of healing and reconciliation.

Peace and justice

In an opinion piece published in the New York Times on 7 June 2016, Kiir and Machar renounced the justice and accountability element of the 2015 agreement. The two leaders wrote: Disciplinary justice  even if delivered under international law  would destabilize efforts to unite our nation. Although the processes of reconciliation and accountability are not mutually incompatible imperatives, they argued, there are political, societal and institutional reasons which make the accountability approach destabilising. The interest of peace, the former arch-foes noted, outweighs the interest of justice, insisting that the cost of pursuing conventional criminal sanctions is far greater than its moral gains. They concluded that only a national truth and reconciliation process can offer a viable prospect of preparing South Sudan for the complex task of national reconciliation, healing, and nation-building.

Riek Machar disavowed the contents of the article four days after its publication and was sacked from the government of national unity some time later, triggering yet another cycle of brutal violence in which soldiers raped girls, slaughtered boys and perpetrated chilling atrocities on civilian populations.

As the current agreement clearly shows, the two sides were not prepared to subject themselves and their commanders, the same people responsible for implementing the accords, to scrutiny.

Moderation towards justice can be a virtue

The enduring prominence of retributive justice within the Anglo-American legal and political culture is very well known. Accountability, understood as individualised criminal prosecution and punishment, is seen as a moral imperative. Within these societies, which are sufficiently developed as to absorb social conflicts in terms of legal rules, it is believed that impunity, particularly for atrocity crimes, undermines the rule of law and weakens the authority of the law to deter proscribed conduct.

In South Sudan, none of this can be taken for granted. In fact, there are genuine institutional and political reasons to believe that the pursuit of retributive justice would jeopardise what is surely one of the most precarious processes of transition ever. As the two leaders wrote in 2016: It is easy to see how some people, having known nothing but war, may prefer to return to the battlefield than stand trial in a foreign country.

The primary task of societies emerging from extreme violence is to prevent the recurrence of atrocities and repair the social fabric ripped apart by decades of violence. From Argentina and Brazil in Latin America to South Africa and Sierra Leone in Africa, from Yugoslavia and Poland in Europe to the Philippines and Cambodia in Asia, and several others in between, countries in transition confronted the intractable predicament and complex dilemma of how to come to terms with particularly divisive and tragic past. Like many others, South Sudan needs time to take stock of its history, to engage in a robust dialogue about who South Sudanese are as people, why they belong together and what kind of a country they want for themselves and their children. Only after answering these questions can they build an ethical consensus for a better future for all. One cannot engage in these processes of healing and repair while at the same time pursuing criminal prosecutions against powerful actors responsible for implementing the very same accords that would make healing possible. In South Sudan, moderation towards justice can be a virtue.

However, reconciliation and healing are not exclusively forward-looking processes of restoration. Indeed, the complete abandonment of accountability and justice as an important pillar of the transition under the current accord seems to be predicated on the erroneous assumption that perpetrators would tell the truth in return for blanket amnesty and that the disclosure of truth would lead to reconciliation and healing. It does not. Decades of research on transitional justice show that there is no necessary link between truth and reconciliation. Even when the process is sufficiently robust and imaginative as to enable the full disclosure of the truth, which is rarely the case, the truth is not a sufficient condition for reconciliation and healing. The volatile relationship between truth and reconciliation, the seemingly inevitable trade-off between peace and justice, the illusive negotiation between remembering, forgetting and forgiving, are all processes that are multifaceted and unpredictable.

Principled compromise

In societies torn apart by decades of violence, accountability should not be seen as an exclusively backwards-looking exercise in retribution, but as part of a comprehensive package of measures designed to restore peace and confidence in the rule of law. Peaceful coexistence and national reconciliation in South Sudan demand a proper accounting of the past and a public knowledge and acknowledgment of injustices.

However, a free-for-all blanket amnesty of the type agreed by Kiir, Machar and others is a mistake that will come back to haunt them all. We should lose no opportunity to remind them that the complete removal of accountability and justice from the agenda now does not mean that these issues will die away. They will not. Beneath the surface of peace and reconciliation, the demand for justice and reckoning will persist long into the future.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial stance.
Amnesty International urges the US-led coalition to dig deeper into the report of civilian deaths in the 2017 campaign.

Amnesty International has urged the US-led coalition battling ISILin Syria to conduct a thorough investigation into civilian deaths in the 2017 campaign to liberate the Syrian city of Raqqa.

The coalitions admission last month that it killed 77 more civilians than previously reported was just the tip of the iceberg, the rights group said in a statement published on Tuesday.

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The probe is needed to understand why civilians were killed and who was responsible, the watchdog said, adding that Raqqa residents deserved justice and compensation.

Every family I met in Raqqa has one question which was why did the coalition bomb us?, said Amnestys adviser Donatella Rovera in the statement.

It is time that the coalition stops being in denial and does the right thing: a proper independent investigation.

Amnesty also said it believed hundreds of civilians were killed and that the coalition had under-reported the casualties.

There was no immediate comment from the Global Coalition, a group formed by 77 countries whose mission is to degrade and ultimately defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS).

The coalition needs to release meaningful and verifiable information about how targets in Raqqa were selected and how strikes were carried out, the statement said.

How can the coalition avoid inflicting high civilian death tolls in the future without accounting for what went wrong? said Rovera in the statement.

Nothing can ever bring back the dead or wipe away the unimaginable trauma. The least the Coalition can do right now is provide restorative measures  including compensation and rehabilitation  to victims families and survivors.

Violence in Raqqa

The coalition had initially put the civilian death toll at 32 in the campaign in Raqqa, the de-facto capital of ISIL.

But an Amnesty investigation published in June and based on testimony collected from Raqqa residents prompted the coalition to add 77 civilians to the death toll, 49 of whom Amnesty said were women and children killed in the aerial bombardment.

Amnesty has also criticised the coalitions monthly reports, which offer only generalities about the strikes.

Such short-hand explanations are woefully inadequate, it said.

.@CJTFOIR dismissed @amnesty's report re civilians killed by #USA-led Coalition's bombardments in #Raqqa ; said we are naive & misinformed, but now admits responsibility for the cases we reported. But there are many more victims. Coalition must come clean https://t.co/dU6WM1EHUj pic.twitter.com/oKzPZH5Grr  Donatella Rovera (@DRovera) August 7, 2018

The battle for Raqqa, once a city of 200,000 people, took place over four months in 2017, with the coalition playing a supporting role as the Kurdish-led Syrian forces fought street by street.

The coalition unleashed a series of air strikes and shell fire until the last of the ISIL fighters left Raqqa in October 2017.

The city was left in ruins, civil workers pulled nearly 500 corpses from the rubble in the immediate aftermath and were still finding more months after the fighting.

ISIL has been mostly defeated in Iraq and Syria, though it still controls some small areas in both countries.
Men linked to ruling party attacked students with machetes and sticks and assaulted media workers, rights group says.

Bangladeshi authorities are unlawfully attacking student protesters in a crackdown after days of demonstrations while locking up people for peaceful criticism, a human rights group said.

Numerous witnesses claimed individuals linked to the ruling Awami League party have attacked protesters with machetes and sticks, according to a statement released on Monday by New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW).

Yet again, Bangladesh authorities seem determined to take abusive shortcuts to problems, and then denounce those who criticise, Brad Adams, Asia director at HRW, said in the statement.

The authorities should immediately release anyone  they have locked up for peaceful criticism.

Adams urged authorities to prosecute those, including members of the ruling partys youth supporters, who are attacking children with sticks and machetes.





The government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has denied the allegations that its activists were involved in such attacks.

One protester told the rights group, however, on Sunday several young men on motorcycles threatened about 500 mostly female students in the Uttara area of the capital, Dhaka.

They said, You must leave. The prime minister has asked us to come and sort you out.

The unidentified demonstrator reported the women and girls then fled but the men, who wore helmets to shield their identities, started beating them.

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The police just stood there. They were taking pictures and videos to be able to identify the protesters. They did not stop the attacks.

Dozens of people have been injured in Dhaka, where security forces have used tear gas and baton charges to scatter protesters.

According to HRW, there have also been reports of sexual abuse during attacks on demonstrators.

Silencing the press

Video also emerged of an Associated Press photographer being repeatedly struck by unidentified men wielding clubs. According to HRW, some 20 journalists have been beaten up for documenting attacks on protesters.

The rights group demanded an immediate investigation into reports that renowned photographer Shahidul Alam was beaten while in custody.

Alam was picked up at his Dhaka home late on Sunday, hours after an interview he gave to Al Jazeera. He accused police of specifically ask[ing] for help from armed goons to combat unarmed students.

Police official Moshiur Rahman said authorities were interrogating Alam for giving false information to different media and for provocative comments.

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Alams family says hes been tortured while in custody.

Al Jazeeras Tanvir Chowdhury, reporting from Dhaka, said following Alams arrest a video posted on social media showed him limping while being held up by two people as he was purportedly taken to court.

Bangladeshs High Court on Tuesday ordered authorities to immediately send Alam to the government-run Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University for treatment.

Hospital officials were also told to form a medical board to examine him, and submit report on his condition to the court on Wednesday.

Ongoing protests

Tens of thousands of students joined the demonstrations demanding safer roads, which began after a speeding bus killed two teenagers on July 29.

The students have brought parts of the country to a standstill by checking drivers licenses and marching through the streets.

Authorities say more than 300 vehicles have been vandalised since the protests started, and some bus companies took their vehicles off the road to prevent them from being damaged.

Bangladeshi authorities have promised to end reckless driving and regulate traffic, as well as introduce a new road safety act.

According to the National Committee to Protect Shipping, Roads and Railways, a private research group, more than 4,200 pedestrians were killed in road accidents last year  a 25 percent increase from 2016.
Trumps national security adviser says Pyongyang has not lived up to the declaration signed in Singapore in June.

US President Donald Trumps top national security adviser has said the relaxation of any sanctions against North Korea was not under consideration as Pyongyang has not taken the necessary steps to denuclearise.

In an interview with US cable channel, Fox News, John Bolton said on Tuesday that US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is prepared to return to North Korea for another meeting with its leader, Kim Jong-un.

What we really need is not more rhetoric, he said. What we need is performance from North Korea on denuclearisation.

Bolton said the United States has lived up to the Singapore declaration that followed the June 12 summit between Trump and Kim.

Its just North Korea that has not taken the steps we feel are necessary to denuclearise, he said.

Bolton said the US has lived up to the Singapore declaration [Kevin Lim/The Straits Times handout]

Asked about the possibility of additional meetings, Bolton said Trump in a recent letter to Kim proposed sending Pompeo back to North Korea, and that Trump was ready to meet Kim any time.

The letter was handed to North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho during a summit of Asian foreign ministers in Singapore over the weekend.

During that meeting, Ri complained that the US was acting with alarming impatience over the negotiations.





North Koreas nuclear weapons programme has caused international tension for decades and the rhetoric and threats from Kim and Trump had been especially hostile before their June meeting.

Bolton said the point may well come when the Trump administration concludes that the North Korean leader is not serious about his promises to denuclearise.

Pressed on how long the US was prepared to wait  amid reports about North Korean plutonium production, missile work and sanctions violations  Bolton said that depended on a clear showing of North Korean will.

If they make a strategic decision to give up nuclear weapons, they can do it within a year, he said.

We are waiting to see evidence that in fact that strategic decision has been made.

Trump has touted his Singapore summit with Kim as a historic breakthrough towards the Norths denuclearisation.
Supreme Court justice says closing the doors on those fleeing hunger and hardship is not justified.

Brazil briefly closed its northern border to Venezuelans in a bid to contain ongoing mass migration from its crisis-ridden Latin American neighbour, only to reopen the crossing soon after.

A Supreme Court justice overturned on Monday a federal courts decision hours earlier to suspend the entry of more migrants until those already residing in the northernmost state of Roraima were transferred elsewhere in Brazil.

The border had remained open to Brazilians and other nationalities, as well as Venezuelans returning home.

It is not justified to take the easy path to close the doors because of difficulties in hosting refugees, Supreme Court Judge Rosa Weber said in her ruling.

Although most of those who cross the border  do not fit into the legal definition of refugee or asylum, closing the border between the two countries could impact the situation of individuals who can qualify for protections under international law, she added.

Migration crisis

About 800 Venezuelans arrive in Brazil every day, while more than 70,000 crossed the border during the past year, according to government estimates.

Venezuela is suffering from an economic collapse, causing chronic shortages of basic supplies.

An apparent assassination attempt on deeply unpopular President Nicolas Maduro last week has further exacerbated tensions in the country.

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About 40,000 Venezuelan migrants have settled in Boa Vista, the capital of Roraima state  accounting for nearly 20 percent of the citys population  according to non-governmental international SOS Childrens Villages.

Suely Campos, the states governor, praised the initial ruling to shut the border.

We have been asking the federal Supreme Court since May to close the border, as well as for financial assistance to minimise the impact on our public services, she said in a statement.

In February, Brazil declared a state of emergency in Roraima that led to a funding boost for the state and doubled the number of troops stationed at the border with Venezuela.

Rights groups expressed concern over Mondays decision, however, arguing it contradicted Brazils responsibility towards people seeking sanctuary.

Seeking asylum is a right and states must fulfill their shared responsibility to protect refugees, Erika Guevara-Rosas, Amnesty Internationals Americas director, said in a tweet.
Why one company in France wont say bye to Iran

As the US reimposes sanctions on Iran, some small European businesses remain steadfast in their choice to continue trading with Tehran despite risks.
20 years after al-Qaeda attack, Kenyans still bear scars

Around the world, people are marking the 20th anniversary of simultaneous US embassy bombings in Kenya and Tanzania.
Four soldiers and two suspected rebels are among those dead after a gunfight in Indian-administered Kashmir.

At least four Indian soldiers and two fighters have been killed in a gunfight at the so-called Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, according to the Indian army.

The armed confrontation erupted on Tuesday after a group of rebels crossed from Pakistan-administered Kashmir into the Indian-administered portion in Gurez valley, Colonel Rajesh Kalia, spokesman for the Indian defence ministry in Kashmir, said in a statement.

He said the infiltration bid was foiled and two rebels killed in the clash.

They were confronted when they were seen attempting to infiltrate into our side of the LoC, Kalia said.

Gurez is located 180km west of the capital Srinagar, near the so-called Line of Control (LoC)  the de facto border that separates the Indian and Pakistan-administered parts of Kashmir.

Among the armys fatalities was an officer of the rank of major, Kalia said. There was no independent confirmation of the incident.

Rebels have been fighting Indian control in Kashmir since 1989. India accuses Pakistan of arming and training the rebels  a charge Pakistan denies.

Nearly 70,000 people have been killed in the uprising and the ensuing Indian military crackdown.

Cross-border violence

Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since independence from Britain in 1947.

The mountainous region has a long history of conflict and is one of the most heavily militarised places on Earth.





It is home to dozens of armed groups fighting for independence or a merger of the territory with Pakistan.

Since 2015, cross-border violence has been growing. According to Indias Ministry of Home Affairs, 1,250 ceasefire violations have been recorded in the first five months of this year, compared with 971 such violations last year.

Thousands of people have been displaced from the villages near the LoC.

In May, the militaries from India and Pakistan agreed to honour the 2003 ceasefire agreement in letter and spirit.

That deal has largely held in the past decade despite tensions between the nuclear-armed rivals.

But the latest pledge crumbled within days as both countries accused each other of deadly attacks.

India and Pakistan have fought two of their three wars since 1947 over Kashmir, which both countries claim in full.
Rescuers struggle to reach quake-hit areas as transport routes cut off amid urgent operations to free trapped victims.

Rescuers on Indonesias island of Lombok raced against time to find survivors in the rubble of collapsed buildings after a major earthquake killed nearly 100 people.

Soldiers pulled a man out alive from the debris of a large mosque that was flattened with about 50 worshippers inside, while thousands of homeless waited for aid on Tuesday and stranded tourists camped out on pristine beaches.

The north of Lombok was devastated by the magnitude-6.9 quake that struck Sunday night, damaging thousands of buildings and killing at least 98 people, a death toll an official said was likely to rise. More than 200 people were wounded, many in serious condition.

Rescuers were still struggling to reach all of the affected areas with transport routes cut off, while others attempted to pry apart massive tangled mounds of debris to free those trapped underneath.

Mosque destroyed

Disaster officials did not say how many people they believe were buried beneath the ruins of the Jabal Nur mosque, but a rescue worker told The Associated Press about 50 people were praying inside when it collapsed.

Video shot by a soldier showed rescuers shouting Thank God as a man is pulled from a space under the mosques flattened roof on Monday, and he staggered away supported by soldiers.





Youre safe, mister, said one of the soldiers as emotion overcame the man and villagers crowded around him.

Disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said he hopes a lot of people can be saved from the mosque.

Two people were rescued from the building on Monday, including a woman with a broken leg, said villager Supri Yono. Three were found dead, however.

Tending to the many injured was also a major effort.

Were forced to deal with broken bones in the traditional way at home because the hospital had to deal with hundreds of other injuries, said Budhiawan, the head of Lading-Lading village.

Urgently needed

Al Jazeeras Step Vaessen, reporting from Pemenang on Lombok, said rescue operations were in full-swing but workers lacked heavy machinery to help with the effort. Rescuers clad in orange clothing and helmets were seen drilling into a pile of debris where a victim was buried.

British charity Oxfam said more than 20,000 people were in temporary shelters and thousands more were camping out in the open.

It said clean drinking water was scarce because of a recent spell of extremely dry weather in Lombok. Food, medical supplies, tarpaulins and clothes are also urgently needed, it said.

Indonesia is regularly hit by earthquakes. The archipelago of thousands of islands sits on the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismic activity hotspot. More than 180,000 Indonesians died after a 9.1-magnitude earthquake off of Aceh province generated a massive tsunami in December 2004.
Irans Zarif says the world is sick and tired of US unilateralism as Trump issues warning against trading with Tehran.

Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif has held talks in Tehran with North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho in a show of defiance, as the United States reimposed economic sanctions on the Islamic republic.

The meeting on Tuesday between the two top diplomats from countries both under American sanctions coincided with the return of sanctions, which US President Donald Trump has described as the most biting ever.

Al Jazeeras Zein Basravi, reporting from Tehran, said the timing of the meeting is likely no coincidence.

Iran wants America to know it has friends everywhere.

In a social media post on Tuesday night, Zarif wrote that the world is sick & tired of US unilateralism, adding that the world wont follow impulsive tweeted diktats.

Just ask EU, Russia, China & dozens of our other trading partners, Zarif continued.

Tantrums & CAPPED TWEETS won't change the fact that the world is sick & tired of US unilateralism. Stopping US trade and killing 100K US jobs is fine with us, but the world won't follow impulsive tweeted diktats. Just ask EU, Russia, China & dozens of our other trading partners.  Javad Zarif (@JZarif) August 7, 2018

Earlier on Tuesday, Trump wrote on social media that anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States.





I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less! Trump said.

Al Jazeeras Kimberly Halkett, reporting from the White House, said the overarching message from Trump is that other countries should not be doing business with Iran.

But Ali Vaez, director of the Iran Project at the International Crisis Group, said the current US sanctions would have less effect on Iran compared with previous measures.

Sanctions are effective as they have international support. This time around, the US is basically bullying the rest of the world into compliance. There are many countries who would not comply like China or Russia, he said.

As a result, the leaky sanctions regime would not be as effective as the previous round of sanctions.

Americans have really not got this right

European governments  who signed the Iran nuclear deal along with Washington  are also infuriated by Trumps strategy.

Federica Mogherini, the European Unions foreign policy chief, encouraged companies to do more business with Iran despite new US sanctions, saying Tehran had upheld its commitments under the deal to limit its nuclear programme.





Speaking to reporters on Tuesday during her trip to Wellington, New Zealand, Mogherini said it is up to Europeans to decide who they want to trade with.

We are doing our best to keep Iran in the deal, to keep Iran benefiting from the economic benefits that the agreement brings to the people of Iran because we believe this is in the security interests of not only our region, but also of the world, she said.

If there is one piece of international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation that is delivering, it has to be maintained.

British Foreign Office Minister Alastair Burt said that Americans have really not got this right.

The nuclear deal was important not only to the regions security but the worlds security, he told the BBC.

Russias foreign ministry said it was deeply disappointed by the return of sanctions, adding that it would do everything necessary to save the 2015 nuclear deal.

China said it will not abide by the US sanctions.

Iranian retreat

Trumps decision in May to withdraw from the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with Tehran spooked investors and triggered a run on the Iranian rial long before the punishing sanctions came back into force on Tuesday.

The sanctions, which target access to US banknotes and key industries such as cars and carpets, were unlikely to cause immediate economic turmoil, analysts said.





Irans markets remained relatively buoyant, with the rial strengthening by 20 percent since Sunday after the government relaxed foreign exchange rules and allowed unlimited, tax-free gold and currency imports.

But the second tranche of sanctions, which kicks in on November 5 and targets Irans vital oil sector, could be far more damaging  even if several key customers such as China, India and Turkey have refused to significantly cut their purchases.

Speaking to US broadcaster Fox News on Tuesday, Trumps top national security adviser, John Bolton, said the US wants to see a much broader retreat by Iran from their support for international terrorism, their belligerent military activity in the Middle East, and their ballistic missile, nuclear-related programs.

Theres a lot going on here that Iran needs to be held accountable for.

Two countries that have welcomed the tough new US policy are Irans regional rivals, Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the renewed sanctions as an important moment for Israel, for the US, for the region, for the whole world.

Meanwhile, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi was quoted as saying that his country will not interact with US sanctions on Iran, but will protect its own interests.

We are against international sanctions and there is an experience in Iraq that led to the weakening of the country and the people, Iraqs state television quoted Abadi as saying.
More than 12,000 police deployed in central Bogota in advance of swearing-in ceremony of President Ivan Duque.

Colombias President-elect Ivan Duque has been sworn in as the countrys 60th president, amid concern over the influence he will have on the countrys peace process.

More than 12,000 police were deployed in the historic centre of the capital Bogota for Duques inauguration on Tuesday, according to local reports.

The heads of state of Argentina, Bolivia, Costa Rica, Chile, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama and the Dominican Republic are expected to attend the ceremony at Bolivar Square, where Congress will gather for an open-air session.

UN ambassador Nikki Haley is also expected to lead a US delegation to Duques swearing-in.

RT @USUN: We had a great meeting w President-elect @IvanDuque ahead of his inauguration to discuss US-Colombia ties. We look forward to a strong partnership that aggressively counters the narcotics trade & increases stability in the region #Colombia #USPartner #UnitedForTheFuture pic.twitter.com/pF4wcB63aL  Archive: Ambassador Nikki Haley (@AmbNikkiHaley) August 7, 2018

The mayor of the US city of Miami, Francis Suarez, as well as the leader of Spains Popular Party, Pablo Casado, are also attending the event.

Colombias civil aviation authority on Monday banned drones from entering the area, after an alleged drone attack targeted Nicolas Maduro, president of neighbouring Venezuela on Saturday.

TRANSLATION: By presidential protocol, Aerocivil prohibits the use of drones in the vicinity of the Casa de Narino. The measure aims at guaranteeing security at the inauguration of the new president of Colombia.

#ComunicadoDePrensa Por acto protocolario presidencial, Aerocivil prohibe uso de drones en alrededores de la Casa de Narino. La medida busca garantizar la seguridad en el acto de posesion del nuevo presidente de Colombia. pic.twitter.com/9EME34aLlK  Aeronautica Civil de Colombia (@AeroCivilCol) August 6, 2018

Maduro blamed the attack on outgoing Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos. But Santos denied the allegation.

For Gods sake. To Venezuelas president, I say this: On Saturday I was doing more important things. I was at my granddaughters baptism, said Santos.

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Duque, a 42-year-old former senator, defeated left-leaning candidate, Gustavo Petro, in a presidential runoff in June with 54 percent of the vote.

As the youngest president in Colombias recent history, Duque is expected to appoint a cabinet consisting largely of little-known technocrats, with the same number of women and men.

Duque is seen as having a positive relationship with the United States.

After his victory, he said he welcomed US President Donald Trumps agenda for a head-on fight against drug trafficking.

Today I received a call from the US president where he congratulated us for the results achieved in the last elections and also his commitment to support our security, justice agenda, our agenda of a head-on fight against drug trafficking, Duque had told reporters.

Duque also spoke to US Vice President Mike Pence, and according to him, they discussed ways to ramp up the drug war, and apply more pressure on Venezuela.

Spoke with President-Elect @IvanDuque of Colombia today, stressing the need to move decisively to cut drug production & trafficking. We discussed the humanitarian crisis and authoritarian conditions in Venezuela and committed to continue to press for the restoration of democracy.  Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) June 22, 2018

During the campaign, Duque promised to crack down on crime and armed groups, lower taxes for businesses, and fight corruption.

He is widely seen as a protege of former President Alvaro Uribe, a fierce opponent of the peace deal with the countrys FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) rebel group, now a political party known as the Revolutionary Alternative Common Force.

He has criticised aspects of Santos 2016 peace deal with FARC, raising concern that he might undermine the peace process and prompt many former rebel members to join other armed groups.

The peace deal with FARC led to the demobilisation of about 7,000 of its fighters following a conflict of more than half a century involving leftist rebel groups, the army and right-wing paramilitary groups.

Internal conflict in Colombia has left more than 260,000 people dead since 1958, according to the governments National Centre for Historic Memory.
Colombias President Juan Manuel Santos dismissed allegations he was involved in the attack.

By
Venezuelan president says he has sufficient evidence that Colombia is behind the foiled assassination attempt.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro promised to release proof of Colombian involvement in what he calls an assassination attempt against him.

In a video posted on Twitter, Maduro said police and the military had captured all the perpetrators and were in the process of tracking down the attacks masterminds.

There is sufficient evidence of the participation of the outgoing Colombian government of President Juan Manuel Santos, he said late Monday, adding he would release proof in the next few hours.

Juan Manuel Santos, whose term in office ends on Tuesday, refuted the accusations, saying he was at a family event on Saturday when a drone loaded with explosives detonated near a military event where Maduro was giving a speech.

For Gods sake. To Venezuelas president I say this: On Saturday I was doing more important things. I was at my granddaughters baptism, said Santos.

Maduro was unharmed in Saturdays incident, which he blamed on a right-wing plot involving Colombia and financiers in the US state of Florida, where many Venezuelans live. Seven soldiers were wounded in the blast.

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So far no evidence has been provided to support the claims.

Six people were arrested on Sunday in connection with the blast, according to Venezuelas interior minister.

On Monday, Maduro failed to appear at a support rally in Caracas, where he had been expected to speak in what would have been his first public appearance since the purported attack.

No explanation was offered for his absence.

Thousands attended a rally in support of Maduro in Caracas on Monday [Marco Bello/Reuters]

Fraught relations

Tensions have been high between Colombia and Venezuela in recent years.

Close to one million Venezuelans have crossed the porous border into the neighbouring country since the social, economic and political crises began in 2016, according to Colombian government figures.

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While many have returned to Venezuela, about 600,000 have remained, causing Santos to ask for international assistance.

Both Santos and Ivan Duque, Colombias president-elect, who is to be sworn in on Tuesday, have been vocal critics of Maduro.

During his presidential campaign, Duque compared Maduros management of his country to a man who beats his wife and children, saying Colombia has a moral responsibility to speak out against his government.
Anti-graft agency announces new case against former premier a day before his pre-trial hearing for earlier charges.

Malaysias former Prime Minister Najib Razak will be charged under the money-laundering act on Wednesday in connection with an ongoing scandal concerning the 1MDB state investment fund, the government said.

Najib, 65, was summoned on Tuesday to the office of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), where he was questioned for about 45 minutes, Reuters news agency reported.





The anti-corruption agency issued a statement soon after Najibs departure from their offices saying that the former prime minister would be charged under the anti-money laundering act.

The charges are related to the SRC International case, the statement said.

Funds were allegedly transferred from SRC International, a former subsidiary of 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), into Najibs personal account.

Last month, Najib was charged with abuse of power and three counts of criminal breach of trust for allegedly depositing 42m ringgit ($10m) in state funds into his personal bank account between December 2014 and February 2015.

He has denied all charges and was released on bail a day after his arrest.

1MDB is under investigation in at least six countries including Singapore, Switzerland and the US.

The US Department of Justice has said more than $4bn was misappropriated by high-level officials from the fund and their associates.

Equanimity

Earlier on Tuesday, a superyacht at the heart of the corruption scandal  the biggest ever in the country  arrived back in Malaysia after being seized in Indonesia.





The $250m boat was allegedly bought with money stolen from 1MDB.

The ultimate owner of this yacht is believed to be a Malaysian citizen known as Low Taek Jho, who is now a fugitive and believed to be the mastermind of this plan to steal billions of dollars from 1MDB, said Al Jazeeras Florence Looi, reporting from Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur.

The new Malaysian government, led by Mahathir Mohamad who took the oath of office in May, is looking into the corruption scandal extremely rigorously, Looi said

Theyve been looking at projects that are believed to be linked to 1MDB, theyve suspended contracts involving Chinese companies  its believed that some of that money may have been used to pay off some of 1MDBs debt.

Najib, a former deputy of Mahathir, is expected in court for his pre-trial hearing on Wednesday.

In May, Malaysian police also seized bags of cash and jewellery worth $273m from properties linked to Najib and his family.
Tweet showing an aircraft heading towards Torontos CN Tower with a warning deleted after social media backlash.

A group in Saudi Arabia apologised and deleted a Twitter post showing an image of an Air Canada passenger plane veering towards Torontos tallest skyscraper with a warning against meddling in others affairs.

Some on social media noted the image was reminiscent of scenes during the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States, when nearly 3,000 people were killed by 19 hijackers  15 of whom were Saudi nationals  who flew airliners into the World Trade Centers twin towers and the Pentagon.

The controversial tweet came amid an escalating diplomatic dispute between Canada and Saudi Arabia after Ottawa denounced Rihadhs imprisonment of human rights activists.

Infographic KSA  described on its website as a volunteer group of Saudi youth interested in technology  published the image of the airliner with the warning: He who interferes with what doesnt concern him finds what doesnt please him.

The infographic also accused Canada of sticking ones nose where it doesnt belong.

The tweet was subsequently translated to English and French and retweeted hundreds of times before it and the account were deleted.

The group later apologised for the inappropriate post and said the image was meant to symbolise the return of Canadas Ambassador Dennis Horak, who was ordered to leave the kingdom within 24 hours on Monday over the diplomatic spat.

Canadian condemnation

The post came amid an emerging rift after Canada condemned the imprisonment of several human rights activists, including Samar Badawi. She is the sister of Raif Badawi, a prominent human rights campaigner who was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2014 on charges of insulting Islam.

His wife and children are naturalised Canadian citizens.

After Ottawas criticism, Saudi Arabia also froze new trade and investment with Canada worth billions of dollars and ordered 15,000 Saudi students not to attend Canadian universities.





Al Jazeera contacted Canadas Ministry of Foreign Affairs for comment about the tweet but at the time of publication had not received a response.

Saudi Arabia has always denied any involvement in the 9/11 attacks, which sparked the global war on terror that led to the invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq.

Families of the victims have spent years lobbying US politicians for the right to sue the kingdom in American courts, claiming Riyadh helped plan the hijackings.

Evidence submitted as part of a class action lawsuit against Saudi Arabia last year alleged Saudis embassy in Washington, DC, may have funded a test run for the deadly attacks.

Controlled press

After receiving a barrage of criticism on social media, Infographic KSA issued an apology late on Monday and subsequently deleted the tweet.

After receiving a backlash on social media, Infographic KSA said the aircraft was intended to symbolise the return of the [Canadian] ambassador [Screengrab/Twitter]





Infographic KSA has more than 350,000 followers on Twitter. Few social media accounts, NGOs, or Saudi citizens are permitted to openly discuss politics in the kingdom on such a global platform.

Protests are banned as are political parties in the Gulf nation. Unions are illegal and the press is heavily controlled with criticism of the royal family leading to prison.





Last year, the kingdom urged its citizens to report subversive comments found on social media via a phone app, a move denounced by Human Rights Watch as Orwellian.

According to the watchdog, more than a dozen female activists have been targeted by Saudi authorities since May, in what was described as an unrelenting crackdown on the womens rights movement.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, heir to the Saudi throne, has become the ultimate decision-maker for the kingdoms military, foreign, economic and social policies, championing his Vision 2030 plan that includes subsidy cuts, tax increases, state-asset sales, a government efficiency drive, and efforts to spur foreign investment.

The 32-year-old has been well-received by the administration of US President Donald Trump.

But the crown princes actions have caused some resentment in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East over high unemployment, the ongoing war in Yemen, the illegal blockade of Qatar, and fears Riyadh is looking to normalise diplomatic relations with Israel.








Former teenage ISIL members join rehab programme in Iraq

Al Jazeera met some of the teenagers in Erbil, where theyre taking part in a rehabilitation program to turn their lives around.
Agreement appears to be another step by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to improve the countrys security.

Ethiopias government has signed an agreement to end hostilities with the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), which it had previously labelled a terrorist movement.

The deal signed in the Eritrean capital, Asmara, on Tuesday appeared to be another step by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to improve security and diplomatic relations, reform institutions and open parts of the state-controlled economy.

Since the 1970s, the rebels have fought a low-level battle for self-determination for the Oromia region, which is Ethiopias largest and home to the Oromo ethnic group.

The OLF was initially part of a transitional government set up in 1991 by rebels from a coalition, which had driven former military ruler Mengistu Haile Mariam from power, but they soon fell out with the coalition.





The government has now signed a reconciliation agreement to end hostilities with the OLFs exiled leader, Dawud Ibsa, who lives in exile in Asmara, the capital of neighbouring Eritrea, said Eritreas Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel.

The agreement further states that  the OLF will conduct its political activities in Ethiopia through peaceful means, he said on Twitter.

The group declared a unilateral ceasefire last month after parliament removed it from a list of banned terrorist groups that it had been part of since 2008.

Al Jazeeras Mohammed Adow reporting from neighbouring Djibouti, said that the agreement is a huge boost for Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

Prime Minister Abiy himself is an Oromo and having a rebel group from his own community fighting his government would have been a huge setback for the raft of reforms that he has initiated in the country, Adow said, adding there are additional reasons why the OLF signed the agreement, ending hostilities with the state.

They were getting most of their support from the Eritrean government and now that the Eritrean government has normalised relations with the Ethiopian government, that support was not forthcoming, Adow said.

Abiy took office in April and his reforms have included extending an olive branch to dissidents overseas.

He has also acknowledged abuses by security services and ended a military stalemate with Eritrea that followed a 1998-2000 border war in which 80,000 people are thought to have died.
New calls for Islamophobia inquiry in Johnsons party after he says women wearing face veils resemble letter boxes.

Boris Johnson, the former British foreign secretary, has come under fire after Islamophobic comments targeting Muslim women wearing face veils.

In an opinion piece published in Mondays Daily Telegraph, the Tory politician and leading figure in a campaign for Britain to leave the European Union said that Muslim women wearing the veils look like letter boxes and compared them to bank robbers.

His comments prompted Muslim groups in the UK to renew calls for an inquiry into Islamophobia in the Conservative Party.

Boris Johnsons latest racist insults cannot be laughed off, like they often are, said Naz Shah, the opposition Labour Partys shadow equalities minister.

Saying Muslim women look like letterboxes, comparing them to bank robbers and describing Islam as a problem was a calculated attack and published in a national newspaper, she added.

[Prime Minister] Theresa May must condemn this blatant Islamophobia and Boris Johnson must apologise, Shah said.

Many remarked on Twitter that Johnson has been in contact with Steve Bannon, former campaign manager for US President Donald Trump, and accused him of pandering to the far-right amid speculation over a future leadership contest within the Conservative Party.

Muslim women are having their burkas pulled off by thugs in our streets & Boris Johnson's response is to mock them for "looking like letter boxes." Our pound-shop Donald Trump is fanning the flames of Islamophobia to propel his grubby electoral ambitions.https://t.co/51YTjIdT4x  David Lammy (@DavidLammy) August 6, 2018

David Lammy, a Labour MP, wrote on Twitter: Muslim women are having their burkas pulled off by thugs in our streets & Boris Johnsons response is to mock them for looking like letter boxes. Our pound-shop Donald Trump is fanning the flames of Islamophobia to propel his grubby electoral ambitions.

The fact that Boris Johnson believes comments like these will help him win the Tory leadership tells you everything you need to know about the Islamophobia problem in the Conservative party. https://t.co/AMPOfZ0LLI pic.twitter.com/aMRbqFAMqL  Adam Bienkov (@AdamBienkov) August 6, 2018

If only there were some way of knowing what might have prompted Boris Johnson to fan hatred of Muslims? pic.twitter.com/jCMLDfy9pk  David Schneider (@davidschneider) August 6, 2018

Others noted that this sort of language would not be tolerated against other minority groups.

Anyone aware of Tory MPs who have said anything about Boris Johnson comments today? (Other than PM through spokesperson who declined to condemn it) Is it fair to say there is, at best, tolerance for this vile language that would not be tolerated against other minority groups?  Miqdaad Versi (@miqdaad) August 6, 2018

Just imagine for one moment the sheer enormity of media fury if Jeremy Corbyn had just brazenly mocked the way Jewish people dressed. This is literally what Boris Johnson has just done, only with Muslims instead. The media are fully complicit in normalising anti-Muslim hatred. pic.twitter.com/nUYXDRq2qo  Evolve Politics (@evolvepolitics) August 6, 2018

Dehumanising remarks

Tell MAMA, an NGO tracking hate crime targeting Muslims in Britain, said in a statement that Johnsons comments dehumanise Muslim women.

He [Johnson] has little idea of the emotional, mental health and sometimes physical suffering these women feel when they are targeted for hate, the statement said.

{articleGUID}

Maybe he needs to spend some time with us Tell MAMA to understand the impact of dehumanising words on the lives and families of people who suffer hate.

Islamophobia within the leading Conservative Party has been under scrutiny in recent months as calls to look into the problem have mounted.

Sayeeda Warsi, a senior Tory member, last month called for an inquiry into allegations of Islamophobia in the party.

Warsi, a member of the House of Lords, highlighted the acute issue surrounding Islamophobia and anti-Muslim rhetoric in her party in an open letter published by the Guardian newspaper in July.

There should be a forensic, wide-ranging and transparent inquiry into Islamophobia in the party, Warsi said, adding the process should be published, those who are found wanting should be publicly named and membership withdrawn.

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) wrote two letters to the Conservatives this year urgently calling for an inquiry, as have groups such as the National Union of Students, the Union of Jewish Students, and institutions representing over 200 mosques in the UK.

We need responsibility and action from our politicians, not pandering to the far-right, the MCB said on Monday, in reaction to Johnsons latest comments.

Mr Johnsons remarks also underscore the Muslim Council of Britains call for an inquiry into Islamophobia in the Conservative Party, the council said on Twitter.

Johnson resigned last month as foreign secretary amid disagreement with May over her Brexit plans on future relations with the EU.
At least 160 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the start of protests along the Gaza border in March.

An Israeli attack has killed two members of the Gaza Strips ruling Hamas movement after shots were fired at soldiers, officials in Gaza and Israel have said.

Hamass military wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, on Tuesday identified the dead Palestinians as Ahmed Murjan and Abdel-Hafez al-Silawi, both 23 years old, and confirmed that they were members of the group.

Witnesses said the attack occurred in the town of Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip.

An Israeli military statement, apparently referring to the same incident, said that the army returned fire after shots were fired at its soldiers from a Hamas post in the northern Gaza Strip, near the border with Israel.



Palestinian sources said it was a drone attack, while the Israeli statement said it was tank fire.

A video distributed by the Israeli army appeared to show a tank striking a military post in the Gaza Strip.

The military said it was prepared to target any aggression against Israel and holds Hamas responsible for everything happening in and from the Gaza Strip.

It added that no Israeli troops were injured in the exchange.





Hamas warned Israel that it would pay for the attack, without elaborating.

The resistance cannot allow the occupation to impose a policy of bombing sites and targeting fighters without paying the price, it said in a statement.

Leading Hamas member Mushir al-Masri described the attack as a ceasefire violation for which Israel would suffer the consequences.

Following a meeting with other resistance factions, al-Masri told reporters that the Palestinian resistance would not allow Israel to breach the terms of the truce.

Since Palestinians launched the Great March of Return protests at the end of March, at least 160 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire.

One Israeli soldier was shot dead by a Palestinian sniper.

The protests call for Palestinians to be able to return to the land they or their families fled or were expelled from in the 1948 war that established the state of Israel.

Israel said any such return would mean the end of it as a Jewish state.

Israeli forces have launched three military assaults on the Gaza Strip since 2008.

The United Nations and Egypt are currently trying to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas for a lasting truce.
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.




Since Sayed is a self-styled progressive, it is not surprising that he has been warmly embraced by far-left "democratic socialists" Sen. Bernie Sanders and the suddenly famous U.S. House candidate from New York, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. They are comrades in the struggle, after all.

Michigan gubernatorial candidate Abdul El-Sayed may be American-born, but he is a living embodiment of what has been called the "red-green axis."

The American left (the "red" side of the axis) is allied out of convenience with Islamists and sharia-supremacists (the "green" side), who want to fundamentally transform the United States of America  for the worst.

Their primary tools are name-calling and intimidation. Their wealthy foundations fund nonprofits and campaigns focused on making our culture Islam-friendly while weakening our resolve to fight Islamic supremacism and the terrorism it deploys against us.

In Islam, deceiving non-Muslims is perfectly acceptable. Sayed uses misdirection and dissimulation to avoid discussing the ugly, anti-American beliefs of his fellow Islamists.

But regardless of what he may say, Sayed, whose parents came from Egypt, is part of this red-green axis.

Sayed's supporters point to a flattering Aug. 24, 2017 profile in the Guardian (U.K.) that paints his critics as paranoid conspiracy theorists.

Reporter Drew Philp asked El-Sayed, "Are you the spear tip of a vast Muslim conspiracy to bring [s]haria law to the U.S.?"

"No," he replied.

"Are you a front for the Muslim [B]rotherhood to pervert American politics towards terrorism?"

"No," he answered.

On their face, Sayed's responses may seem reasonable, but they mask uncomfortable truths.

Sayed was vice president of the Muslim Student Association while attending the University of Michigan. MSA isn't some innocuous feel-good organization that Muslim students join for companionship and the occasional field trip. No one joins MSA to peacefully promote Islam. MSA is a campus-based haven for revolutionaries, Islamists, and sharia supremacists in America.

MSA was founded in 1963 at the University of Illinois by the al-Qaeda-affiliated Muslim World League. The Saudi government has reportedly funneled more than $1.3 billion to the MWL to promote Wahhabism. The League, warns former federal prosecutor Andrew C. McCarthy, is the Muslim Brotherhood's "principal vehicle for the international propagation of Islamic supremacist ideology." Bahrain, Egypt, Russia, and the United Arab Emirates treat the Brotherhood as a terrorist organization.

Islamist and anti-American agendas predominate at MSA chapters at American colleges. These chapters have been credibly accused of serving as "incubators" for Islamic terrorism. Former FBI special agent John Guandolo called the group "a recruitment tool to bring Muslims into the Brotherhood" and the "focal point" for the Muslim Brotherhood in America. "Their goal, both from their senior leaders, presidents of MSA's around the country, national leadership, is to implement Islamic government here in the United States," Guandolo explained. "And they say that."

Sayed is disturbingly evasive when questioned about the brutal, totalitarian body of medieval Islamic law known as sharia that many Muslims would like to impose on Americans.

At a May 10 candidates' forum in East Lansing, Sayed refused to answer a question about sharia from Republican Patrick Colbeck and gave him a lecture about racism and "white supremacy."

What frustrates me more is not that you have blatant racism on the part of certain people, but what frustrates me more is, in the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, is not when bad people speak out but when good people fail to speak out, and what I have not heard is the Republicans on this panel, decisively and swiftly call out this kind of Islamophobia, this kind of racism, in the context that they are wanting to represent the state that has the highest per-capita number of Muslim Americans in the country. Now you may not hate Muslims, but I'll tell you, Muslims definitely hate you!

This flash of Islamist anger from Sayed was telling. It is typical of Islamists trying to hide the truth. They lash out at their critics and smear them using abusive language.

Being worried that people who want to destroy America are trying to gnaw away at its foundations from within isn't a "phobia."

It's patriotism and common sense.

Matthew Vadum is an independent investigative reporter in Washington, D.C. and author of Team Jihad: How Sharia-Supremacists Collaborate with Leftists to Destroy the United States and Subversion Inc.: How Obama's ACORN Red Shirts Are Still Terrorizing and Ripping Off American Taxpayers. Follow him on Twitter. E-mail him at matthewvadum [at] gmail.com.
Likewise, states near Washington have a powerful vested interest in a bloated, pampered, and unrestrained federal government. So do all the media. Even nominally conservative media who suck on the federal teat have an equally vested interest in Washington remaining the only real source of power in America. Lawyers and judges, especially those whose domain is Washington, are also addicted to "Capitolism."

Most conservatives grasp that our nation desperately needs a real revolution  not a violent or unconstitutional revolution, but a real revolution nonetheless. At the outset, it is vital to understand that no revolution will ever come out of Washington. Indeed, "Capitolism" is the heart of all our political problems.

All revolutions begin in the colonies, the flyover lands where real work is done, the exploited territories whose voice is never heard  or, if heard, is smirked at and mocked, in the pampered salons of the brainless, soulless functionaries whose only function is to preserve the privileges and prerogatives of those nabobs in the nexus of power.

There is a natural and constitutional source of power to fight this sort of revolution: state legislatures. Despite such awful changes in the Constitution as the direct election of senators and in spite of the cravenness of many state legislatures before the political bribery of Washington and bullying of federal judges, state legislatures still have, with sufficient numbers, omnipotence in our constitutional system.

Two thirds of the legislatures are sufficient to convene a Constitutional Convention, and three quarters of the legislatures at such a convention are sufficient to amend the Constitution in any way except to deprive states of equal representation in the Senate (which is actually a good limitation on the power of amendment).

Republicans in state government, particularly in states far from Washington, are the most conservative of all Republicans. Today, 33 state legislatures are controlled by Republicans (counting Nebraska) and four more legislatures are split with only a handful of seats needed to give Republicans a majority  one state short of the number to ratify an amendment. Six other states  Washington, Oregon, New Mexico, Nevada, Colorado, and Maine  are close enough to flip on a Republican election night.

Winning a real revolution need not mean only amending the Constitution. All the organs of education and public broadcasting have strong state government elements. State legislatures could begin the vital process of de-programming Americans who currently have little access to the conservative side of any issue.

Perhaps the most exciting change could be to have all states with Republican legislatures pass resolutions that are not binding but express the sense of the legislature and have these states pass identical resolutions on the same day. What might these resolutions state? Here are some thoughts:

"The First Amendment is not an expression of state atheism. America was founded on belief in God, and this belief is an integral part of American society and government."

"The Tenth Amendment protects of rights of the sovereign states, but it is ignored by all branches of the federal government in blatant violation of the Constitution."

"The Necessary and Proper Clause of Article I should be strictly construed. It is not a license for Congress to do whatever theoretically may have a slight impact upon one of the enumerated powers."

"The Capitol of the United States ought to be located at the demographic center of the nation and not in the current District of Columbia."

Even more powerful would be the scheduling of non-binding plebiscites on these and similar issues. Consider the political effect of these votes expressing the sense of the people in 35 or so states on the same night, voting by lopsided margins in favor of the plebiscites.

All leftists are cowards at heart. If, on a single night, 70% of the American people who voted in 35 different states' plebiscites expressing a sense of the people supported the conservative (i.e., constitutional) position, then the minions of the left would scramble and scurry for the nearest rat hole, trembling with fear.

We can have a real revolution. Recall that the key to the American Revolution, which gave us independence from the British Empire, was the collaboration and coordination of assemblies in the colonies, which represented the heart and soul of the people. Nothing has changed. When Republicans in state legislatures have vision, courage, and will, then our nation can be reborn as a federal and free America.
Harris is the daughter of Shyamala Gopalan Harris (1938-2009), an immigrant from India, and Donald Harris, an immigrant from Jamaica. Her mother was a breast cancer researcher and her father an economics professor at Stanford University. They met while at graduate school in California and divorced when Kamala was seven years old. After the breakup, Kamala moved with her mother and sister Maya, an MSNBC political analyst, to Quebec, Canada, where her mother took positions at the Jewish Hospital and McGill University.

The fight for the 2020 presidential nomination is underway within the Democratic Party. Several personalities are vying to position themselves as far to the left as practical to garner adequate attention and support among the activists and power-brokers. Among the senators, Kamala Harris has found a unique approach to the internal debate.

Kamala attended Howard University and received her law degree at the University of California in 1989. Since 1990, after her admission to the California Bar, she has held government legal or political positions almost continuously. With little private-sector experience, she is the prototypical Democratic politician, without the taint of the private sector. Her rise within the party has been meteoritic. As a woman of minority heritage, she will be hard to counterbalance by other contenders. She has positioned herself as an anti-Trump leader who often speaks, quite eloquently and moderately, on social issues as a protector of freedom and decency.

Her record demonstrates a keen use of rhetoric and a decidedly leftist tilt. Last week at the progressive Netroots Nation meeting, she attacked opponents of "identity politics." Harris told the progressive gathering:

"I have a problem, guys, with that phrase, 'identity politics,' because let's be clear, when people say that, it's a pejorative. That phrase is used to divide, and it is used to distract. Its purpose is to minimize and marginalize issues that impact all of us. It is used to try and shut us up." Harris said Democrats "won't be shut up, and we won't be silenced[.] ... These issues that they're trying to diminish and demean," she added, "are the very issues that will define our identity as Americans."

Identity politics comprises political positions based on the interests and perspectives of social groups with which people identify. Identity politics includes the ways in which people's politics is shaped by aspects of their identity through loosely correlated social organizations.

One aim of identity politics has been for those feeling oppressed to articulate their oppression in terms of their own experience by a process of consciousness-raising. Inherent in this approach to politics is the Marxist conception that the power struggle must be uprooted in favor of the oppressed. The irony in Harris's statement is that she has justified identity politics by claiming that it is the basis of American society.

Harris goes on to give a direct example of how a group identity was instrumental in securing a Democrat victory:

"We've all heard how critical black women were to Doug Jones' victory," she said of Democrats' success in the Alabama Senate race. "But that didn't just magically happen. It happened because black women have been putting in the work, going door to door, organizing even when the cameras were focused elsewhere."

She further claimed their status as a depressed minority group:

Noting that black women are far more likely than white women to die of pregnancy-related causes, Harris said, "It's time to respect [black women's] leadership. It's time we addressed the issues that they uniquely face."

Kamala Harris has demonstrated a facility with speech few in public office possess. She has attacked and deflected her behavior to condemn those pointing out that very behavior. Joseph Goebbels, the Nazi propaganda minister, helped Adolf Hitler type Mein Kampf (1925), where, in "War Propaganda," Hitler wrote, "If you repeat a lie often enough, people will believe it, and you will even come to believe it yourself." (This quote is often incorrectly credited to Goebbels.) Clearly, Kamala has come to believe her own statement.

There is another rationale for her statement. Within the Democratic Party, there is a fight between competing approaches to messaging. Though most of the leadership tends toward statist or socialist policies, stealth has been instrumental to Democrat electoral victories. Barack Obama planned to "fundamentally change" America, but he used the language of a more moderate intention. Recently, Obama did not endorse Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. She is running as a Democratic Socialist, which removes the veil. Obama may eventually support the rising star, but for now, he has not done so.

Kamala Harris is trying to separate herself from the many other potential presidential candidates. She is also demonstrating her ability to argue against members of her party who want to appeal to a broader base and attract traditional working-class voters back to the fold from Trump's conservative nationalist platform. She has learned from Obama a winning strategy that she hopes to ride to victory in two years.
AOC's claim to fame is a B.A. at Boston University, which explains everything. So I wondered about Korean-born Sarah Jeong. Sure enough, says La Wik :

Golly, just when we deplorables had finished digesting the incomparable Democratic Socialist Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, along comes another tasty dish: the New York Times' pet racist and sexist, Sarah Jeong.

She attended the University of California Berkeley and Harvard Law School, where she was editor of Harvard Journal of Law & Gender.

Dear God. Of course, Jeong is an anti-white racist and an anti-male sexist, for that is what she was carefully taught by her lefty teachers and administrators.

By the way, could we clear up the vile misdirection by Oscar Hammerstein II in South Pacific, sung by Lt. Cable?

You've got to be taught

To hate and fear,

You've got to be taught

From year to year,

It's got to be drummed

In your dear little ear

You've got to be carefully taught.

No! Oscar, baby, you know better! You are writing rubbish, the self-conceit of liberals, circa 1949. Earth to lyricists: you have to be carefully taught not to hate and to fear. Teaching humans to hate and to fear is the easiest thing in the world! Here's the Guardian (H/T Jonah Goldberg ):

[W]hile some individuals have "predispositions" towards intolerance, these predispositions require an external stimulus to be transformed into actions. Or, as another scholar puts it: "It's as though some people have a button on their foreheads, and when the button is pushed, they suddenly become intensely focused on defending their in-group."

Well, bless my buttons! You mean to say that all it takes is to press a button, and lefties immediately go into a group hate and start to defend their identity in-group? Gag me with a spoon! I never would have thunk it.

In his piece, Jonah also gently raises the question that the Steve Sailers of the world have been ventilating for a while. When whites become self-consciously white, then the liberal race game is not going to be fun anymore, because of the button on white people's foreheads.

Okay. End of fun-and-games, beginning of Serious Philosophy.

When you set up a worldview that unifies, or, as we say, totalizes politics and secular religion, that proposes to use the force of government to create the perfect world, then you set up a double Us and Them dynamic. First of all, politics is the technique of dividing people into two warring groups: Our Group, the good guys, and the Other Group, the bad guys. Taken to the limit, we are talking about civil war. Second, religion is the technique of assembling a community of people around a specific notion of God and a perfect world. The religious community is the good guys, and the rest of the world are heretics and unbelievers. Taken to the limit, we are talking about auto-da-fe and Reigns of Terror.

In their wisdom, our Founding Fathers declared that there should be a separation between politics and religion, between State and Church. I wonder why, Alexandria and Sarah! Do you have an idea? Did your gender studies teachers get into this, I wonder?

I will tell you, ladies. Our Founding Fathers knew what a tangled web was weaved when they mixed politics and religion in the Thirty Years War.

So along came the lefties in the 19th century, rich kids like Marx and Engels, and said: I know, let's have a class war, Capitalists vs. Workers! Yay, Workers!

So, in the 20th century, we had WWII, the religious war to end all religious wars: Democracy vs. Fascism. You would think the wise heads would have tired of combining government and secular religion.

But no!

And so today, all over the U.S., Good Little Girls are being taught to hate and to fear. Good Little Girls like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Sarah Jeong. Because racism.

As everybody knows, the key thing about racism is power. If you have power, you can be a racist. If you don't have power, then you can't be a racist.

But if Candace Owens can be suspended for a racist tweet exactly echoing Sarah Jeong's tweet, except for substituting "Jewish" or "black" for "white," and Sarah Jeong to this very day does not get suspended, and Sarah Jeong works for the New York Times and Candace Owens does not, then who has the power? And who is the racist?

Perhaps our intersectional friends can do a little intersectional analysis on this for us.

But I warn you, you lefty professors and diversity administrators. One day, the Good Little Girls will wake up and realize that You Lied. I don't think things have changed much since 1697, when playwright William Congreve opined that Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.
Andrew Cuomo, vain poster boy for government waste

Andrew Cuomo, the current governor of the state of New York and a leftist ideologue, is at it again, wasting more of the taxpayers hard-earned money. Cuomo is a governor who seems to have an affinity for vanity and an aversion to common sense. The egocentric Cuomo has now made it one of his priorities to change the color scheme of certain subway tiles. Governor Cuomo felt it necessary to add millions onto the cost of a project involving a couple of subway tunnels which were in need of tiles. Plain white tiles were simply not good enough for Governor Cuomo. So Cuomo decided that adding blue and gold stripes to the already ordered white tiles was the prudent thing to do, to hell with the added cost. Governor Cuomo has always had a flair for being arrogant and vain; the man simply has no shame. Wasting the money of NY taxpayers is nothing new for this logic challenged governor. It seems the Cuomo administration is also responsible for the hundreds of illegal "I Love NY" signs which are currently sticking out like eyesores throughout the NY highway system. These highway signs as constituted are currently in violation of federal law... something which didn't seem to matter to Cuomo during the time that they were put into place a few years ago. Some Republicans are now calling on Cuomo to remove these signs. According to the Times Union, a few Republican lawmakers have now joined hands in taking Cuomo to task regarding the 14 million dollars in federal funding the state of New York is now in danger of losing due to the governor's blunder.

Elise Stefanik and John Faso have joined four of their upstate Republican congressional colleagues to urge Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo to take down the states controversial tourism signs along the highway. In a letter from Thursday, the group reminded the governor that the state is risking $14 million in federal funding if it fails to take down the signs in compliance with federal regulations addressing highway signage. The state spent more than $8 million on the I Love NY campaign of signs and the state Department of Transportation has maintained the signs are safe and will work with the federal government to resolve the issue amicably. Cuomo has a history of making big promises with few results to show for it. The New York Post illustrates how Cuomo has wasted billions of dollars in the name of economic development. Billions of dollars which in many cases resulted in far less than what Cuomo had promised. Big-bucks efforts that failed to live up to their hype, and wound up mired in scandal, include: The Central New York Film Hub outside Syracuse, which cost $15 million to build but was sold last month for just $1  despite Cuomo boasting in 2014, Who would have ever figured: Hollywood comes to Onondaga, right? A $90 million factory that taxpayers built for the Soraa LED lighting company, which walked away from the deal with no penalty late last year. The state then committed up to $15 million more so NexGen Power Systems, a semiconductor company, would retrofit and lease the plant, also outside Syracuse. Cuomos Buffalo Billion revitalization plan, centered around a state-funded $750 million solar-panel plant that currently employs fewer than 700 workers  a far cry from the 3,000-plus predicted by the governor. This is a governor detached from reality. Andrew Cuomo is a leftist politician who seemingly is always willing to do something irresponsible. Cuomo is just another truly naive liberal politician who never quite takes the time to ponder the consequences of his costly decisions. It seems today leftist politicians in general are never held accountable for anything they do by the liberal mainstream media, no matter what the financial cost or outcome. Cuomo has always been a huge polarizing force in the state of New York and is a man who seems to be a deeply committed ideological leftist. The NY governor once told conservative Republicans that they didn't have a place in the state of New York. Cuomo seems to believe that if one subscribes to the stance of right to life, this makes the person an extreme conservative. More leftist hyperbolic virtual signaling from a governor who is way out of touch with the average every day new yorker. Governor Andrew Cuomo is a regressive leftist politician, a man who seems to be forever auditioning to become the 2020 Democratic Party's presidential candidate. A governor currently attempting to destroy the state of New York economically "one tile at a time." Maybe Cuomo could run his future presidential campaign based upon repainting the White House in rainbow colors? Caricature by Donkey Hotey, via Flickr
The real consequences of socialism are visible to all who do not avert their eyes. In Brazil, overwhelmed by refugees from Venezuelan socialism and unable to care for so many of them, a federal judge ordered that nation's border with Venezuela closed, only to have that order overturned by that nation's supreme court in the name of humanitarianism.

Judge Helder Barreto ordered the border closed until the northern state of Roraima can create the "humanitarian" conditions to handle the influx, Reuters reported. State officials told the news agency that more than 500 Venezuelans cross into Roraima on average every day. The incursion has overwhelmed social services and led to homeless families sleeping in the streets amid rising crime and prostitution, among other concerns. The migration also has triggered an outbreak of measles; many Venezuelan refugees have not been immunized due to the breakdown of the health system there. As part of his ruling, Barreto ordered the vaccination of all Venezuelans admitted to Brazil. He also suspended a local measure permitting the expulsion of Venezuelans who broke the law, as well as a decree requiring Venezuelan immigrants seeking medical and social services to have a valid passport. However, he also ordered that the entry of Venezuelan refugees be halted until Roraima has reached an equal number of people entering the state and leaving for other parts of Brazil.

However, just two hours ago, the BBC reported:

Brazil has re-opened its northern border with Venezuela to those fleeing economic and political turmoil there, after briefly closing it. The Supreme Court overturned an earlier order to shut the frontier until Brazil could put in place the right conditions to receive the huge influx of people. Authorities in the state of Roraima in Brazil's Amazon region say some 500 Venezuelans cross the border every day. The border was re-opened to Venezuelan migrants after a few hours on Monday. "It is not justified to take the easy path to 'close the doors' because of difficulties in hosting refugees," Supreme Court justice Rosa Weber said in her ruling issued shortly before midnight. ... Most who have crossed the border to Brazil in recent months are living in appalling conditions on the streets of the Boa Vista, the impoverished state capital of Roraima, in the heart of the Amazon region. For months, authorities in Roraima have been calling for the border to be shut. They say that public services have collapsed and that migration has brought about a sharp rise in crime.

Socialism has created a humanitarian disaster in Venezuela, a country so well endowed with natural resources that it was the richest nation on the continent of South America before socialism. Now, after years of grabbing wealth from producers, very little wealth is being created there, and Venezuelans do not have enough to eat, or obtain essential medicines, or even survive.

I do not understand how Democrats can increasingly hitch their star to socialism, making a rock star out of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders, and Cynthia Nixon, who recently proclaimed to cheers at the Netroots convention:

The establishment is terrified of that word, "SOCIALISM." But if we've learned one thing from the Obama years it is that Republicans are going to call us socialist no matter what we do, so we might as well give them the real thing!



MSNBC screen grab.

There are millions of Venezuelans who have experienced the "real thing" and are fleeing for their lives. The fact that people like Nixon can make such foolish statements is an indictment of our own media for hiding the consequences of real, not theoretical, socialism.
Democrats are promising that women will be the ones wearing the pants in the House if they get a majority in the November elections. That's because not only would Nancy Pelosi become speaker, but 35 women would head major committees and subcommittees. Voters who think women are better at ruling because of their sex are politically aroused .

35 women are poised to lead committees and subcommittees in the next Congress ... put[ting] female lawmakers in the driver's seat[.] ... [It would take] take the "Year of the Woman" to new heights of power. Party leaders are practically giddy at the thought of positioning more women in power[.] "It is absolutely vital that women leaders take their rightful seat at the table: at the head of the table," Pelosi told The Hill in an email.

Driver's seat, heights of power, giddy for power, head of the table  this sounds like a bad reboot of "Abbott and Costello Go to Mars" where fascist women are in charge!

Rep. Rosa DeLauro said that if the girls take over, they will tackle "women's health care, domestic violence, equal pay, and family leave."

1. Women don't get health care? Or is this code for late-term partial-birth abortions?

2. Aren't there already laws against "domestic violence"? Or is Rep. DeLauro talking about increasing deportations of illegal aliens who are guilty of that offense?

3. As for equal pay, does it start in Rep. DeLauro's office? Do the men get paid the same as she does?

4. In order to be for family leave, one has to be for families. Maybe Rep. DeLauro should be more focused on passing an "abortion leave" bill, so women can take time off after unplanning their families.

Another Democratic airhead says women not only have better temperaments, but even smell better than men do.

Rep. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.) argued another benefit of having women in charge: They are simply more open to compromise, a breath of fresh air[.] ... "I believe women tend to find common ground, work together and accomplish big tasks," said DeGette[.]

So I guess, by contrast, that men tend to fight more and accomplish only small things. However did we invent the light bulb, lay the railroads, mass-produce the automobile, invent the atomic bomb, and land on the Moon with the male population dragging us down every step of the way?

34 subcommittee gavels appear poised to go to Democratic women if the party takes the House. Those include spots atop five Appropriations panels, as well as influence over other major issues: digital commerce (Illinois Rep. Jan Schakowsky); counterterrorism (New York Rep. Kathleen Rice); higher education (California Rep. Susan Davis); and immigration (Lofgren).

I like women's policies on digital matters, but I prefer the men's point of view on counterterrorism. As for the women's point of view on higher education, I'm uncertain: do liberal women believe men should get a higher education, or do they want men to be stay-at-home moms and, as soon as science permits, barefoot and pregnant?

Some liberal Republicans like Cathy McMorris Rodgers have also been bitten by the sex supremacy bug.

"Being a mom makes politics real," she told Fox News. "That's why it's so critical that more women and moms are elected to Congress."

And being a dad doesn't make politics real? Or how about just being a man? This is from a Republican! Is there a Mr. McMorris, or a Mr. Rodgers, or a Mr. McMorris Rodgers, and if so, how does he feels being treated like a second-class citizen by his wife in the national media?

When female politicos talk about what's in their pants as the best reason to elect them, it tells me their agenda is morally bankrupt and politically untenable. If men talked like this, they would be booted out of office. It's time we started treating female candidates equally.

Ed Straker is the senior writer at Newsmachete.com.
The hacker group Anonymous posted a video promising to expose the people behind the conspiracy theory known as "QAnon." The bizarre theory has gained prominence in recent weeks as QAnon believers have shown up at Trump rallies across the country.

The anarchist hacking group slammed the QAnon conspiracy as potentially dangerous and driven by a brainless political agenda in a video posted Sunday to what is widely considered the most reliable Anonymous Twitter account. We will not sit idly by while you take advantage of the misinformed and poorly educated, the group said in the video, which was posted with the hashtags #OpQ and #OpQAnon. The video depicts various figures with Anonymous masks acting out certain aspects of the QAnon conspiracy against a constant backdrop of the letter Q. The video claims that Anonymous knew who was responsible for Q and thought it was funny at first. However, the group now believes the conspiracy theory has gone too far. Someone is going to get hurt, so we have to put our foot down and start some s**t with you all, the group said in the video.

The group claims to know who is behind the conspiracy, but fails to identify them. BuzzFeed says it's very likely the perpetrators are left wingers pulling a prank on paranoid conservatives.

Certainly only the most muddle-headed, paranoid right wingers could believe something like this:

According to Q, nearly every president before Trump was a "criminal president" who was part of an evil global organization of Satanist pedophiles. It also claims members of the US military who are not working for the global pedophile cabal supposedly approached Trump and begged him to run for president so that they could purge the government of the deep state operatives without a military coup. Q claims Trump is not under investigation by special counsel Robert Mueller, but that Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are. And Trump is actually working with Mueller. Q regularly drops clues that followers call "crumbs," which are meant to predict things. For instance, he claimed John Podesta would be arrested or indicted Nov. 3, 2017  which, of course, didn't happen.

Regardless of who started it, it's sad and pathetic that the conspiracy has taken hold as much as it has. Of course, the left has their own crazies who believe in idiotic conspiracy theories involving not just Trump, but the Koch brothers, white people, police, men, oil companies...the list goes on and on. It just shows that there is a lack of critical thinking skills on both sides, which contributes to the intense polarization of American politics.
In Niger, a social enterprise is using local plants that are resistant to the arid climate of the Sahel to produce nutritious food. The result is better incomes for farmers and a preserved environment.

The nutritional value of the leaves, flowers, fruit and seeds of some 15 wild plants are being promoted to help strengthen food security and to combat malnutrition and desertification in Niger. Sahara Sahel Foods uses plants indigenous to the region to produce highly nutritious food, while providing additional income to rural populations.

The company was officially launched in 2014 with initial funding of 1,200 in personal savings from its founder, Josef Garvi. Its industrial unit is located in the Zinder region, in the south-east of the country, and the products are sold in shops across the country. The company currently produces a range of 35 products  including fruit juices and pulp, oils, almonds, confectionery and teas, all derived from natural plant species grown in the Sahel.

The plants, which include Balanites aegyptiaca, Mearua crassifolia and Boscia senegalensis, grow naturally in cereal and legume fields and produce fruit, leaves and gum. Traditionally, they were picked and eaten immediately, or used in medicine. The plants also prevent soil erosion by water runoff, and their perennial nature makes them all the more valuable for combating desertification.

Initially, communities approached by the company to help harvest the fruit, leaves and gum of the plants did not believe the project could be profitable. Today, however, Sahara Sahel Foods works with 1,500 women across Nigers three regions (Diffa, Maradi and Zinder). They now have an income from harvesting and are replanting family fields with neglected indigenous plants using modern seeding techniques, such as natural regeneration and direct seeding. According to Garvi, The companys employees earn more than FCFA 100,000 (152.45) a year.

Local communities were won over by discovering the additional income generated by the harvest, but also the nutritious food produced by Sahara Sahel Foods from the wild plants. The companys success with the local population was such that, by the second year, the company harvested 50 t of fruit, leaves and gum  double the 25 t initially expected. We knew that some of these natural trees could produce food for local consumption, but we didnt realise they could provide us with a substantial cash income, even during a poor harvest, says Mamou Rabia, a farmer in the Maradi region. Thanks to Sahara Sahel Foods, we now have a permanent profitable activity. Even better, we have become permanent local forestry agents, adds Barira Safiatou, another woman from the same region.

The seeds are sown in grids. After 1 year, we start thinning out the plants that have germinated in a grid, keeping the strongest seedlings. A direct seeding grid usually produces a mature tree, explains Garvi. His aim is to set up collection and processing units for harvested products in the other regions of the country, but above all to reproduce the model in other countries where the same varieties of indigenous trees exist.
As Politico reporters Darren Samuelson and Josh Gerstein wrote, "Mueller's decision to call Gates at the start of the second week of the trial was something of a surprise." Perhaps Judge Ellis's warning last week that they "can't prove conspiracy without him" had something to do with the decision.

It is becoming clear that the case against Paul Manafort will be based heavily on the prosecution's argument that jurors should trust the word of an admitted crook. After some waffling , the team of prosecutors, assembled by Robert Mueller to try Manafort on financial crimes unrelated to President Trump, put his former employee Rick Gates on the stand yesterday.

From the start of the trial, Manafort's lawyers have been stressing the unreliability of Gates.

Manafort's defense used its opening statement to accuse Gates of embezzling from Manafort's firm. Under questioning from [prosecutor] Andres, the witness readily admitted he'd taken money he wasn't entitled to. "In essence, I added money to expense reports and inflated expenses to receive the additional money," Gates said. Asked to quantify the overcharges in dollars, Gates said: "I'd say it's several hundred thousand."

So he is a thief who cut a deal with prosecutors for leniency in return for testifying against Manafort. Judge Ellis himself has stated that the goal of convicting Manafort is to squeeze him to make a similar deal for leniency and implicate President Trump.

Gates is claiming that, in addition to stealing money covertly, he also was faithfully obeying Manafort's directives in filing false tax documents:

Gates said he was instructed by Manafort to give false information about Manafort's income to both his bookkeepers and his tax accountants. He also followed Manafort's instructions to reduce his U.S. income taxes by passing off as income a series of loans he had received from overseas.

I would expect that defense counsel, when they get a chance to cross-examine Gates, will claim that in order to hide his own embezzlement, Gates falsified documents without telling Manafort.

A second prosecution witness, accountant Cindy Laporta, also is testifying under a grant of immunity for her admitted crimes:

Laporta said Friday that she filed tax returns for Manafort and his businesses that she did not think were true. Defense lawyer Kevin Downing pressed her Monday on whether she'd gone to Manafort directly when she thought information Gates was providing was inaccurate or incomplete. "I didn't do that," she said. "I think Mr. Manafort, in most instances, it was clear that Mr. Manafort knew what was going on." When Downing suggested that Laporta didn't do anything about her concerns, she insisted that was wrong. "I did raise issues," she said. Laporta said she'd raised those concerns with Gates. "I'm sure he reacted well to that," Downing said sarcastically. "He didn't respond," Laporta said.

Judge Ellis spoke up yesterday during Gates's testimony. NBC News:



Photo credit: CNN.

During prosecutor Greg Andres's questioning of Rick Gates, Judge T.S. Ellis stepped in a few times to question the prosecution. Andres asked Gates to tell the jury the net worth of Ukrainian businessman Rinat Akhmetov, one of Manafort's clients. Judge Ellis directed Gates not to answer the question and told Andres to tailor his questioning to the charges. A few minutes later, Andres was walking Gates through one of his passports. Judge Ellis spoke up and said loudly, "Let's get to the heart of the matter." "Your honor, we've been at the heart of the matter," Andres said before Ellis could finish his directive. "Don't speak when I'm speaking," Ellis said sternly. When Andres continued his questioning, Ellis again interjected. "Let's find a way to expedite this," he said. He then called both sides to the front of the courtroom for a bench conference. When the conference ended, Ellis told Andres to continue his line of questioning and that he didn't overrule anything. Ellis had last week forbidden the prosecution to use the word "oligarch" when describing the Ukrainian businessmen that Manafort worked with. He has continually pressured the prosecution to cut shorten [sic] the length of their witness list and testimony.

Judge Ellis, whose court is proud of its reputation as a "rocket docket" that moves trials along speedily, has repeatedly shown impatience with prosecution's attempts to introduce facts that might prejudice jurors but do not directly relate to the charges at hand.

If jurors do not convict Manafort, as may be possible, we can expect a full-throated attack on Judge Ellis, a Reagan appointee.
The death count from the insanity that is Chicago's gang-filled inner-city continues to rise. (74 shot, 11 dead  just this past weekend  including victims aged 11, 12, and 13). The mayor's response is to push through a Black Lives Matter/ACLU-drafted change in how the city is policed that follows those organizations' favored principles.

Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel and Illinois attorney general Lisa Madigan recently celebrated the issuance of a 232-page draft consent decree for the Chicago Police Department, possibly the longest police consent decree ever written. Among numerous other red-tape-generating provisions, it requires the CPD to revise its protocols regarding "transgender, intersex, and gender non-conforming individuals," to make sure that the CPD policies properly define these terms and that officers address intersex, transgender, and the gender non-conforming with the "names, pronouns and titles of respect appropriate to that individual's gender." Last Thursday, a so-called anti-violence march shut down Lake Shore Drive to demand that the CPD hire more black officers and that City Hall spend more on social programs in the black community.

Meanwhile, the pattern of mayhem continues to spread.

New York City, still relatively safe (as it has be since the Giuliani-Bratton team raised the cost of even minor crime in the city back in the '90s), is now seeing an increase in the type of crime that is destroying the quality of life in large parts of Chicago.

Baltimore now has an even higher rate of bloodletting than does Chicago  brought on largely by the same anti-policing strategies pushed by the BLM movement and the ACLU.

Stronger policing, not weaker policing, is what is needed. But in truth, even that is at best a stopgap measure  one that can hope only to slow the spread of the ever increasing death and destruction.

Is a real, lasting solution possible? What would such require?



Beyond the glittering skyline, Chicago's West and South Sides drench themselves in blood.

Photo credit: Dalton Reed via Flickr.

Manhattan Institute fellow Heather Mac Donald cuts to the chase:

Policing is only a second-best solution to the anarchy in inner-city communities. The best solution is a culture of marriage that expects boys to take responsibility for the children they conceive.

She continues, "As long as more than three-quarters of Chicago's inner-city children are raised without their fathers, black-on-black violence will continue."

But years of closely following this story tell her that politicos and media will pay little attention. Or not at least until "the numbers are too egregious to ignore."

Aren't seventy-plus shootings over one weekend in one city "egregious" enough?

Apparently not.

Just think of who politically controls these cities  and has largely done so for several generations. Then none of the above, as terrible as it is, is reason for surprise. For it is they, more than anyone else, who have created the inner-city culture making life in key parts of America increasingly hellish.
Yet, with very little media attention, the story has emerged that Senator Dianne Feinstein  of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, with access to the highest-level secrets  employed for two decades a spy who reported to China's Ministry of State Security (MSS). When the news was first made public, buried paragraphs deep into a Politico story, hardly anyone noticed.

Imagine for a minute if Representative Devin Nunes or Trey Gowdy or Matt Gaetz had employed a Russian spy for two decades. Imagine further that this Republican solon were married to a spouse who had made a fortune investing in Russia. Do you think such news would receive less than wall-to-wall coverage on CNN, MSNBC, or any of the other television news operations?

China, for example, is certainly out to steal U.S. technology secrets, noted former intelligence officials, but it also is heavily invested in traditional political intelligence gathering, influence and perception-management operations in California. Former intelligence officials told me that Chinese intelligence once recruited a staff member at a California office of U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, and the source reported back to China about local politics[.] ... According to four former intelligence officials, in the 2000s, a staffer in Senator Dianne Feinstein's San Francisco field office was reporting back to [China's Ministry of State Security]. While this person, who was a liaison to the local Chinese community, was fired, charges were never filed against him. (One former official reasoned this was because the staffer was providing political intelligence and not classified information  making prosecution far more difficult.) The suspected informant was "run" by officials based at China's San Francisco Consulate, said another former intelligence official. The spy's handler "probably got an award back in China" for his work, noted this former official, dryly.

Most of the media attention that mentioned the scandal did so to disparage President Trump for tweeting about it Friday night...

...Dianne is the person leading our Nation on Collusion with Russia (only done by Dems). Will she now investigate herself? https://t.co/OG6l04bBwg  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 4, 2018

...and mentioning it at a rally in Ohio on Saturday:

I like Dianne Feinstein I have to tell you, but I don't like the fact that she had a Chinese spy driving her and she didn't know it.

Feinstein replied Friday on Twitter:

(1/2) The FBI told me 5 years ago it had concerns that China was seeking to recruit an administrative member of my Calif staff (despite no access to sensitive information). I took those concerns seriously, learned the facts and made sure the employee left my office immediately. pic.twitter.com/qpVyPanpJk  Sen Dianne Feinstein (@SenFeinstein) August 4, 2018

(2/2) Compare that to your actions: attacking the FBI and refusing the advice of your national security team. SAD! I appreciated then and now the diligent work of our law enforcement and intelligence agencies and acted in the best interests of the country. Give it a try!  Sen Dianne Feinstein (@SenFeinstein) August 4, 2018

Michael Savage pointed out yesterday on his talk show that the FBI warned Feinstein of a spy on her staff but did not extend the same courtesy to candidate Donald Trump. Instead, the FBI used a bogus dossier to obtain a FISA warrant to spy on Trump, not warn him. A San Franciscan himself, Savage noted that the senator's husband has extensive business ties in China.

Peter Hasson of the Daily Caller writes that the person who fits the profile of the purported spy is longtime Feinstein staffer Russell Lowe:

Lowe worked for 20 years in Feinstein's San Francisco office, where he was a staff liaison to the Asian-American community before leaving approximately five years ago. All those details match up with the descriptions of the Chinese spy Feinstein reportedly employed. ... Since then, more details have emerged about the alleged spy, including that he worked for Feinstein for 20 years, "attended Chinese consulate functions for the senator" and was fired five years ago.

If Lowe is the spy, then a scandal was completely covered up for five years. Let's see: who was in charge of the FBI then, allowing a Democrat senator to fire a spy who had spied for twenty years? That's right: James Comey.

The rot is far deeper than we suspected.
PTSD relief without drugs

A recent American Thinker article by Larry Alton, "get serious about PTSD," is right on the mark. Most V.A. and DoD programs have not produced significant results, and they use drugs. Is it possible that the drug companies are part of the problem? Four years ago, I became aware of work being done to treat the most significant PTSD problem: chronic nightmares. Dr. Frank Bourke, a prominent psychologist and founder of Research and Recognition Project, had been using a neurolinguistic protocol called Reconsolidating of Traumatic Memories (RTM) to treat PTSD patients. His method teaches the patients to distance themselves from the emotional part of the incident or incidents causing the chronic nightmares, lack of focus, and irrational behavior. He told me he does this usually in three hour-and-a-half sessions, a day apart. Sounds like snake oil, right?



Photo via Flickr. Our Blue Angels Foundation supports the Warrior Foundation in San Diego. This terrific group of volunteers provides assistance to the Naval Hospital and also facilities for those warriors needing a transition after receiving a medical discharge. Many of these warriors have PTSD. After talking with Dr. Bourke, we flew him out to San Diego to treat two of these warriors and see for ourselves. We put them all up in a hotel for three days. Each one received an hour-and-a-half session with Dr. Bourke each day. At the end of the last session, I had a video conference with each warrior. Both had been having nightmares to the point where it was seriously affecting their lives, one to the point where he was considering suicide. I asked them how they had slept the night before. One of them told me just fine. The other said not too much. I asked, "Why?" He told me he had so much sleep after the first session the previous night that he didn't need much last night! Both of them told me the treatment at the hospital had been a bag full of drugs, which they didn't want. I chatted with each individually for about ten minutes and became convinced that there clearly was something there. Dr. Bourke's group had completed a clinical replication study sponsored by New York State with a 96% success rate. In order to get this "snake oil" treatment into mainstream medicine, it would be necessary to conduct a number of clinical trials. Our Blue Angels Foundation took on the challenge of raising money to jump-start this process. With the help of an old successful former Navy fighter pilot and a connection with the National Association of Surety Bond Producers, we quickly raised the quarter of a million dollars to fund the clinical trial of thirty warriors in the San Diego area. The success rate was similar: well over 90% even after short term, six- and twelve-month follow-up. That clinical replication study was followed by thirty women with almost the same great results. By the way, this RTM treatment also flushes out those who may be taking advantage of PTSD for monetary gain. This was followed by another replication study of 75 patients with similar results. In the last year, neurological studies have used EEG, pre- and post-treatment, at the Mind Research Network in New Mexico. This method, conducted by Dr. Jeff Lewine, clearly shows, using EEG methodology, the presence of PTSD before treatment and the absence post-treatment. The V.A. and Walter Reed Hospital are now beginning to embrace the RTM protocol, but there is still a long way to go. As the AT article by Larry Alton pointed out, 7-8% of the general population will have PTSD at some time. For combat veterans, the numbers are much higher. Somewhere between 11 and 20 percent of veterans from Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, 12 percent of Gulf War veterans, and 15 percent of Vietnam War veterans suffer from PTSD in a given year. Government acceptance of the RTM protocol must be recognized and centers for training the trainers established. Once this is done, the RTM protocol should be made available in most areas of the country. H. Denny Wisely is a rear admiral of the United States Navy, retired.
Their idea is to tell the public that retail employment is not good or fair.

"There's no appreciation for experience anymore," Collins said. "Someone could walk off the street today and get paid the same as me."

Collins, a 65-year-old maintenance worker at a Dallas store, joined the company when the starting hourly wage was $8. Over the years, Walmart has steadily raised that rate, in part to attract workers in a tightening labor market. But data shows that pay for longer-term workers like Collins has remained stubbornly stagnant.

James Collins has been working at Walmart for six years. His pay: $11 an hour, the same as what a new hire would make on their [sic] first day of work.

Since the economy is so good and a significant majority of supposed journalists want to destroy President Trump and elect Democrats, they search far and wide for what they perceive are negative stories with which they can propagandize the public. The following is a story by the Washington Post News Service :

Start by noticing that the story is about Walmart, the country's largest employer. I have to wonder why it isn't about Amazon, since Jeff Bezos owns both Amazon and the Post.

The article actually has some interesting pieces of information.

The writers essentially complain that a worker who is 65 and who has been there for six years isn't being rewarded for his seniority because new workers are also starting around the same $11 an hour that he is making. I actually find it fascinating that Walmart has given him a 37.5% raise over six years from $8 to $11 per hour. Isn't that amazing that the largest employer gave around 6% per year even though the government didn't require it to?

We are always told that the government needs to raise the minimum wage, but what we see is that the private sector is actually doing it, because capitalism and the marketplace are pushing wages up.

The writers also complain that the worker isn't being rewarded for experience and seniority. Haven't unions always done that? Doesn't a three-year electrician, plumber, carpenter, teamster, etc. essentially make the same as other union members who have been on the job for ten, twenty, or thirty years? I don't remember the media complaining about that.

The Washington Post article continues like this:

Retailers have made headlines for raising their minimum hourly wages in quick succession  CVS to $11, Costco to $13, Target to $15 by 2020  while 29 states and the District now require that employers pay more than the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. But economists say those gains have not translated to higher wages among mid-level workers. The average hourly wage paid to retail workers dropped to $18.58 in June, from $18.65 a month earlier, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (Year over year, the average hourly retail wage has risen 2 percent, from $18.15.) Economists cite a number of factors, including a decline in union jobs and fewer opportunities to move up within the industry. Add to that high turnover rates and a trend toward part-time work, and the result has been a growing group of retail workers who may be making higher minimum wages but continue to feel stuck in low-paying positions. Chief Executive Doug McMillon, meanwhile, received $22.8 million in compensation last year, up 2 percent from the year before, according to company filings.

Then the article says retail wages were down 7 cents per hour last month. I assume that the statistical sample may have shown that, but I would challenge the journalists to find retail workers whose salary was cut last month. It's a go-go economy, and something else would have to be at work if wages really fell. The article notes that several retailers are raising their wages, and more people are quitting their jobs each month than ever, and there are one million fewer part-time jobs than when Trump took office, while Hispanic, black, and female unemployment, along with total unemployment, are near all-time lows. People over twenty-five without a high school diploma have also seen their unemployment rate drop from 7.6% to a record low 5.1%.

Now, which of those pieces of information would make a journalist believe that existing retail workers are taking a pay cut?

Here's something more like it, from Bloomberg:

Americans' confidence in employment prospects is soaring as the labor market tightens. The latest proof: A record number are voluntarily quitting to seek better jobs. Some 3.56 million workers left positions in May, the most in data back to 2000, and up from the prior month's 3.35 million, Labor Department data showed Tuesday. That pushed up the quits rate, which measures quitters as a share of employed people, to a 17-year high of 2.4 percent from 2.3 percent. With more workers feeling assured of finding better employment, sustained wage gains may soon follow.

Then we get the gratuitous comment about CEO pay to gin up hate for the rich. The stories we always see are similar to the garbage the Economic Policy Institute puts out. Take a gander:

According to a report from the Economic Policy Institute, the average CEO pay is 271 times the nearly $58,000 annual average pay of the typical American worker.

All this kvetching, while the actual median pay of 210,160 CEOs in May of 2017, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, was $183,270.

The number is easy to find, but obviously, it doesn't fit the Democrat agenda, so it is effectively hidden from the public.

Left-wing senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders earn almost as much as a median CEO in the U.S at $174,000 per year, and their pensions and other benefits dwarf those of the average CEO, yet they stir up hate against business-owners.

Here are the salaries of some of the pundits who get paid to basically regurgitate Democrat talking points :Joe Scarborough: $4 million; Rachel Maddow: $7 million; Chris Matthews: $5 million; Chris Cuomo: $2.5 million.

I understand why young people think socialism is good: they have been misled by professors. I do not understand why seasoned journalists would spew forth such nonsense. Capitalism is what helps lift most people out of poverty, not socialism.

The Democrat agenda of government-run health care, free college, higher minimum wages (no matter what the local market is), massively higher taxes, open borders, sanctuary cities and states, zero fossil fuels, and massively higher taxes would destroy America, yet that is what most of the media supports on a daily basis.

Thank God we elected Trump to make America great again, instead of Hillary, who would have continued the path toward destruction of the greatest economy that ever existed.
The Times, no doubt assuming Jeong's status as a good liberal made it impossible for her to express retrograde opinions, evidently neglected to search her social-media history.

A scroll through her Twitter page quickly revealed plenty of unsavory stuff. Among her charming declarations on the subject of race:

"basically i'm just imagining waking up white every morning with a terrible existential dread that i have no culture." "White men are b." "[O]h man it's kind of sick how much joy I get out of being cruel to old white men." "Dumbass f white people marking up the internet with their opinions like dogs p on fire hydrants." In short, Jeong can get pretty nasty behind a keypad.

Her explanatory statement on these and similar remarks is self-exculpatory but not totally unconvincing. "As a woman of color on the internet, I have faced torrents of online hate," she writes, supplying a couple of sinister remarks directed at her.

She goes on: "I engaged in what I thought of at the time as counter-trolling. While it was intended as satire, I deeply regret that I mimicked the language of my harassers. These comments were not aimed at a general audience, because general audiences do not engage in harassment campaigns. I can understand how hurtful these posts are out of context, and would not do it again."

Maybe she's not the bigot her meta-satirical tweets suggest, but her apology doesn't explain her malicious tweets about police officers:

A sampling: "F the police." "If we're talking big sweeping bans on s that kills people, why don't we ever ever ever ever talk about banning the police?" "[C]ops are a."
A number of promotional materials detailing the S Pen set to be bundled with Samsungs Galaxy Note 9 leaked online earlier today, having been shared by German tech outlet WinFuture. The images that can be seen in the gallery below reveal that while the companys next-generation stylus will offer a number of improvements compared to the one that was accompanying the Galaxy Note 8, its number of supported pressure levels will remain unchanged, still sitting at 4,096. The last time Samsung increased the sensitivity of its mobile stylus was two years back with the ill-fated Galaxy Note 7 which supported the same number of pressure levels as the upcoming S Pen.

The new gadget will still stand out with its Bluetooth capabilities, allowing Galaxy Note 9 owners to use it as a remote shutter button or a wireless method for controlling presentations in DeX mode, among other things. Some apps will also be controllable via the S Pens Bluetooth functionality, with Samsungs mobile chief DJ Koh recently suggesting the company is specifically looking to cater to gamers with this feature. The South Korean tech giant will also promote its next Android flagship with a claim that using the S Pen on its 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display panel will be tactically identical to writing on an actual paper, as per the same leak.

A Monday report suggested the color of the screensaver memos users will be able to scribble will correspond to the color of the S Pen users choose, with Samsung supposedly planning to sell all available styluses separately, though one should still be included with the Android flagship. The Galaxy Note 9 will be announced this Thursday, August 9, at Samsungs next Unpacked event taking place in New York City. The base model of the phablet is expected to ship with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage space expandable by up to 2TB via a microSD card slot, or 400GB in practice seeing how higher-capacity consumer-grade cards still arent available for purchase. The Galaxy Note 9 is currently rumored for an August 24 global release, starting at approximately $960.
HTCs troubles continued throughout last month, with the companys July revenue being its lowest monthly turnover in fifteen years, amounting to the equivalent of $45.7 million, more than 77-percent down annually. The poor performance disclosed on Monday marks a sequential drop of some 37-percent, thus further highlighting the already poor sales from June. The firms revenue for the first seven months of the year is hence sitting at below $555 million, being around 54-percent down year-on-year, with HTCs chances of breaking the billion-dollar annual turnover mark now seemingly being extremely slim.

The poor commercial performance spanning a wide variety of product segments is still somewhat masked by the $1.1 billion cash injection from Google that HTC secured in early 2018, allowing a significant portion of its engineering talent to join the Taiwanese unit of the Mountain View, California-based tech giant, in addition to providing Alphabets subsidiary with non-exclusive rights to its vast patent portfolio. As a result of that move, HTCs first-half performance still yielded a bottom line thats over $621 million in the black but with its second-quarter losses surpassing $222 million, those cash reserves are likely to erode in the immediate future.

The Taipei-based electronics manufacturer is also planning to reinvest the majority of the sum received from Google into emerging technologies such as virtual reality, 5G, and blockchain, its senior officials said earlier this year. The firm is now resorting to experimentation in hopes of finding a new niche that could drive growth for its struggling operations, with the next such bet coming in the form a blockchain Android smartphone called the Exodus which is set to launch in the coming weeks. Several months back, HTC completed a major cost-cutting effort that saw it consolidate its regional VR and mobile units, giving precedence to the former. The U12 Plus introduced in May is also believed to be the companys only high-end Android handset of the year.
A Palm-branded handset identified by the model number PVG100 received certification from the Wi-Fi Alliance and the United States Federal Communications Commission, with the main implication of the latest development being that the device will soon be commercialized in the country. A report from late March suggested Verizon will be carrying a Palm exclusive in the second half of 2018, citing a source who claimed the smartphone in question will be manufactured by Chinese technology giant TCL Communication.

Despite not being handled by HP, the American electronics juggernaut that purchased Palm in 2010, the handset may end up featuring a physical QWERTY keyboard, much like a number of the former companys other major releases, including the Palm Pre 2 pictured above. After a 19-year run, HP retired the Palm brand in 2011, having sold the units trademark to TCL in late 2014. While the Huizhou, Guangdong-based conglomerate publicly confirmed plans to revive the brand in early 2015, no new announcements have been made ever since. In the meantime, TCL jumped on the opportunity to become the main manufacturer partner of BlackBerry after the Canadian firm closed its in-house hardware design division, with that partnership so far delivering a number of critically acclaimed devices such as the BlackBerry KEY2.

While TCL is still collaborating with BlackBerry on all new handsets released under its brand, the company is the sole owner of the Palm moniker and can choose to take the classic line of pocket computers in any direction it sees fit. The newly sighted certificates dont disclose many details about the upcoming device, save for revealing it will run Android 8.1 Oreo out of the box and lack 5GHz support. Its still unclear whether the handset in question will be a Palm device in many things besides its name and possibly a physical keyboard, with one of the defining features of the cult brand being the now-defunct PalmOS. Verizon will likely be looking to have the smartphone available for purchase by the beginning of this years holiday season.
A Sony-branded handset speculated to be the companys as-yet-unannounced Xperia XZ3 flagship has now reportedly cropped up at Brazils ANATEL technology certification agency in the leadup to its expected reveal at IFA Berlin 2018. There isnt too much information available from the new listing but the Brazillian agencys site does list the handset with model numbers H-9461 and H-9463 for the certification. Meanwhile, the battery capacity associated with the model numbers is set at 3,060mAh. That has been posited to point to variations on the Xperia XZ3, which wouldnt necessarily be impossible. The company has had a relatively long tradition of unveiling multiple configurations of its flagship hardware ranging from standard to compact versions. However, the listing could easily point to something else entirely since the details are so slim with ANATELs listing.

The abovementioned event is scheduled to run from August 31 to September 5, so the timing makes sense with regard to certification for sales in the regions served by ANATEL. However, there are some at least a couple of key differences between this device and previous leaks pertaining to the Sony Xperia XZ3. First, model numbers can and do vary from region to region and could point to slight variations in specs for alternate configurations. With that said, the number associated with prior rumors has typically been H8416, which differs substantially from those listed at ANATEL. Beyond the designations provided, the battery size indicated on the documentation also doesnt seem to line up with current expectations. Previous leaks have suggested Sony will opt for a 3,240mAh unit in its flagship.

Setting the newly sighted certification aside, the Sony Xperia XZ3 will reportedly feature an octa-core Snapdragon 845 SoC backed by 6GB of RAM and 128GB storage. Thats expected to be packed in behind a 5.7-inch or 5.9-inch fullHD+ panel at an 18:9 ratio in an all metal frame rated at IP68 for water and dust resistance. Android 8.1 is expected out of the box. Speculation about the cameras, on the other hand, are effectively a wash. Some reports have pointed to a dual camera setup at 19-megapixels and 12-megapixels, while others have suggested it will ship with two cameras both front and back. More recently, rumors seem to suggest the XZ3 will sport a massive single sensor set at as much as 48-megapixels.
Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) August 07, 2018 (SPS) - The Sahrawi Republic and the Republic of Botswana signed Monday in Addis Ababa a joint statement on the establishment of diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level.





following the full text of the communique:

Saharawi Republic and Botswana Republic decide the establishment of diplomatic relation at the ambassadorial level.

The Government of the Saharawi Republic and the government of the Republic of Botswana have signed today, August 06, 2018 in Addis-Ababa, the joint communique on the establishment of diplomatic relations at ambassadorial level. For the Saharawi Government, H.E Mr .Lamine Baali, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and permanent Representative of Saharawi Republic to the African Union, and for Botswana Government,H.E. Ms Mmamosa Dinyana Molefe, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary and Permanent Representative ofthe Republic of Botswana to the African Union, the following joint communique:

The Government of the Republic of Botswana and the Government of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, desirous of promoting and strengthening the relations of friendship and cooperation existing between the two countries, have decided to establish diplomatic relations as of the date of the signing of this Joint Communique.

The Government of the Republic of Botswana and the Government of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic reaffirm their common adherence and commitment to the Constitutive Act of the African Union and to the principles of non-alignment, principles and purposes enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and the provisions of international law, particularly, in the promotion of international peace and security, respect for the sovereignty and independence of States, and non-interference in their internal affairs.

The Government of the Republic of Botswana and the Government of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic have agreed to establish diplomatic relations at the Ambassadorial level in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 18 April 1961. SPS

125/090/TRA
BarcelonaThe former Speaker of the House, Carme Forcadell, has joined the other defendants in their challenge against the five Spanish judges who have been assigned the case against the Catalan leaders [who declared independence in October last year] because she believes they cannot guarantee a fair trial. Forcadell has files a motion requesting that judges Manuel Marchena Gomez, Andres Martinez Arrieta, Juan Ramon Berdugo, Luciano Varela Castro and Antonio del Moral Garcia be taken off the case.

Forcadells legal team claim that, since these magistrates were involved in the cases examination process ahead of the trial, the former Speakers right to a fair trial is being infringed upon. Forcadell has thus joined Oriol Junqueras and Raul Romeva, who filed the same motion with the Supreme Court last week. Defendants Jordi Turull, Josep Rull and Jordi Sanchez were the first to make that same request.

For her part, Forcadell notes that she is entitled to an impartial court of law and to due process on a level playing field and with every legal guarantee. As the legal counsel for the other political prisoners had done earlier, Forcadells legal team have argued that the judges who are slated to see her case in court were involved in the pre-trial examination process which, according to the motion, casts doubt over their impartiality during the trial.

Furthermore, her lawyer claims that some of the presiding judges were on the panel that saw the case against former Catalan minister Francesc Homs, who was indicted for helping to hold a non-binding independence referendum in 2014. Homs was found guilty of major disobedience.

Following in the footsteps of Jordi Pina the lawyer who represents Jordi Sanchez, Jordi Turull and Josep Rull and Andreu Van den Eynde counsel for former Catalan ministers Junqueras and Romeva, Forcadells lawyer Olga Arderiu states that four of the judges happened to serve on the bench when a complaint was lodged over the same events by former Public Prosecutor Jose Manuel Maza on October 31. Therefore, she concludes, there is an obvious connection between the examining magistrate and the court that will try the political prisoners. This according to Arderiu might interfere with the case at hand.
MadridThe mastermind of the jihadist attacks in August last year, the Ripoll-based imam Abdelbaki es-Satty, was visited by four police officers while he was serving time for a drug conviction in the Castello prison between 2010 and 2014. This newspaper has learnt that much after gaining access to the case file of the Barcelona and Cambrils terrorist attacks on August 17 2017 (17-A). A report written by the Prison Service, which reports to Spains Interior Ministry, lists four meetings with police on April 15 and April 24 2012, June 26 2012, and finally on March 17 2014, just over a month before Es-Sattys release. Furthermore, the report includes the ID number of up to four different police officers who visited Es-Satty on several occasions. It is unclear whether they were Guardia Civil, Police or CNI, Spains intelligence service.

In November last year, Spains CNI acknowledged that they had contacted the ringleader of the terrorist cell responsible for the Barcelona and Cambrils attacks last year. As reported initially by El Pais, Es-Satty might have worked as a CNI informer, even though later the Madrid daily toned down their claim, stating that Es-Satty had merely been in touch with the CNI. Now the 17-A case file shows that the imam, who was killed in the accidental explosion in the Alcanar villa where the jihadis were readying the attacks, met up to four times with police officers while he was in the Castello prison. Last March CNI director Felix Sanz Roldan asked to appear in parliament so as to clear the matter. Since the address took place before the official secrets committee, we have had no details about the explanations he gave to the political parties.

Never in a Catalan jail

Another official report, this time by the information and security division of Catalonias Penitentiary Service, states that the Ripoll imam never spent any time in a Catalan prison. At one point he was incarcerated in Ceuta [one of Spains African enclaves] but was moved to Castello (Pais Valencia) a month later because the facility north of Moroccos border was overcrowded. In November 2011 Es-Satty was sent back to Ceuta to stand trial, after which he returned to the Valencian facility.

Arrested in Ceuta in 2010

The Prison Service report on Es-Satty gives details about the mans life. Es-Satty was arrested on January 1 in Ceuta while he was attempting to smuggle 121 kg of hashish into Spain. He was 37 years old at the time and had been living in Catalonia for twelve years. According to his bio, he had decided to move to Catalonia because he had acquaintances living in Barcelona and Tarragona. Es-Satty stated that he had four brothers, all of whom lived in Morocco. He married when he was eighteen and had nine children in Tetuan, but he befriended another Moroccan woman who lived in Segur de Calafell when he moved to Catalonia.

He was sent to a Spanish prison two days after his arrest in 2010. He had never been caught before and he claimed that three Moroccan brothers had beaten him up and forced him to smuggle the drugs. He always claimed to be an innocent man. During his stint in the Castello prison, he received a wage from the workshop where he was employed. His expenses were minimal. The only money he ever transferred was 500 to Mohamed Aberrich, while in Ceuta and before he was moved to Pais Valencia. However, the money order was cancelled because of missing details. While in jail Es-Satty used to phone both his ex-wife and his then-new partner in Catalonia.




Above: King Khalid International Airport.

Courtesy SITA



The new implementation marks another major milestone in the decade-long partnership between GACA and SITA.



The new technology is vital to improving the overall passenger experience while preparing the airports for an expected surge in passenger numbers over the next few years. Passenger traffic across all Saudi airports climbed to 92-million in 2017, a 7.7% increase compared with the previous year.



HE Abdulhakim bin Muhammad Al-Tamimi, President of GACA, said: GACA has mapped out a clear future for Saudi airports, enabling us to meet our continued passenger growth while maintaining the worlds best airport facilities. We recognized that SITA was best suited to support this transformation. They have worked closely with us to implement our requirements for each airport and provide the right solution.



Courtesy SITA



As part of the technology upgrade, SITA is implementing its AirportConnect Open platform which allows airlines to work seamlessly at airports using common facilities while delivering a smooth self-service experience from check-in to boarding. AirportConnect Open provides future-proof infrastructure which will enable the implementation of cutting-edge solutions such as biometric single-token travel and common-use payment systems. It is also supported by the introduction of new Wide Area Network (WAN) and Local Area Network (LAN) connectivity across all airports.



In addition, SITA is providing GACA with a state-of-the-art baggage management solution in line with industry standards, enabling GACA airports to meet the baggage tracking requirements of IATAs Resolution 753. SITA will help airlines track and capture baggage data at check-in, loading onto the aircraft, transfer and on arrival.



At the same time, SITAs Airport Management solution and Flight Information Display System is being deployed in Jeddahs King Abdulaziz International Airport, providing real-time information critical in helping GACA proactively manage their resources across the airport. This will also empower the operations teams to plan for events before they happen, while ensuring that they have the right people and equipment in place at all times. The Airport Management solution is being rolled out in an additional 21 GACA airports before the end of the year.



SITA has also introduced Airport iValidate gates at Jeddahs King Abdulaziz International Airport and Riyadhs King Khalid International Airport. iValidate is a traveler document authentication system that enhances security and accelerates passenger processing by automatically verifying all types of boarding passes, including mobile boarding and home-printed passes.



Eng. Suleiman Al Bassam, Vice President for Information Technology & Telecommunications at GACA, said: Our investment in new technology underpins the development of smart airport infrastructure across Saudi Arabia and is an important part in realizing GACAs long-term strategy of improving the passenger experience across its airport network. It also supports the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which includes the development of our national airport and wider aviation infrastructure.



Hani El-Assaad, SITA President, Middle East, India and Africa said: Time and again we have seen how technology can transform an airport, improving the flow of passengers through the airport and therefore elevating the whole airport experience. Our solutions will help GACA reap the full benefit of the tremendous growth they have experienced across all Saudi Arabian airports in the past few years.




Under the expanded code share agreement, passengers can now travel on Oman Air flights from Muscat International Airport and connect to Madrid, Brussels, Vienna and Prague from Lufthansas Frankfurt and Munich hubs.

The agreement offers travellers even better connectivity and an extended range of services between Muscat and Europe. Guests of both airlines will benefit from the greater convenience and the agreement is the latest step in developing closer links between Oman Air and Lufthansa, both of which share a commitment to deliver excellence in customer service.

Lufthansa will continue to codeshare with Oman Air on Oman Air-operated services from both Frankfurt and Munich to Muscat vice versa, allowing their guests to experience the hospitality and service of Oman Air. Oman Air guests will be spoilt for choice as they will be able to fly onwards to Brussels Airport (BRU), Vienna International Airport (VIE), Vaclav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) and Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) in Europe. Both Oman Air and Lufthansa offer outstanding choice for customers and the new codeshare between the two airlines will maximise the travel opportunities offered to passengers through their extensive networks.

Engineer Abdulaziz Al Raisi, CEO, Oman Air said: Strategic codeshares are a crucial way for us to broaden customer choice. Our continued relationship with Lufthansa is very important for Oman Air, and we are delighted to offer our valued guests even better connectivity in Europe.
Some fans were off and pacing when dark clouds and thunder rolled over Dresden Raceway late Sunday afternoon but Stonebridge Guard wasnt deterred as he won his seventh straight.

The three-year-old Shadow Play gelding went wire-to-wire for driver Scott Wray to win by six open lengths in 2:02.

Stonebridge Guard, who hasnt lost since June 2, is owned by Doug Dunbar from Woodstock and partners Fred Woolford and Jack Wray.

The wagering public was keen for the first eight races as the pundits averaged just under $4,000 a race but when the storm clouds loomed large the handle dropped to just over $2,300 per race and the total handle ended up at $39,876.

All three entries that trainer Mike Carther sent behind the gate visited the winners circle as Hopetobefirst (Nick Steward), Three Rockets (Tyler Borth) and Team Leader (Tyler Borth) won their respective races.

Almost two thousand people jammed the grandstand as the track was offering free hot buttered corn on the cob as well as free giveaways for kids including six bicycles.

Dresdens season will come to a close Friday night when they will hold a special twilight card of racing starting at 5 p.m.

(Dresden Raceway)

To view results for Monday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Monday Results  Dresden Raceway.
Guyventures: Six Dates Of Philly

Heading To Philly? Put These Top Date Spots On Your Must-See List

Philadelphia is one of Americas most historical cities. Bursting with energy and culture, it possesses that rare balance of cosmopolitan exuberance and small-town charm. However, as is the case in most cities, dating in Philly is no simple feat. Of course, there is the standard 'spark' v. 'no spark' chemistry gamble that occurs on any date. But in addition, Philly daters, face the great dilemma of where to go and what to do. Good first date ideas can be tricky, but great first date ideas can feel almost impossible.

Through a pre-planned travel itinerary, I experienced the best of what Philly has to offer. While I made it my mission to enjoy a Philly Cheesesteak, I also made it my mission to discover the best spots to bring a future date. And what did I discover? Well, the bright side of Philly is that whether you are a foodie, an adventurer or a history junky there are a number of spots to hit up on a date. The downside? You have to pick one.

To prep you for your next date we rounded up six of our favorite Philly spots. Open your Google Maps tab, text your date and get out there. Your destination dilemma has now been sorted.

Uncle Bobbies Coffee & Books

Best For: Bookworm Bae

Philly loves anything to do with literature, arts and film. So, if your date is a bookworm who loves literature head up to Germantown  located in the NW end of the city  and grab a table at Uncle Bobbies Coffee & Books. CNN commentator and Temple University Professor Marc Lamont Hill opened this bookstore/coffee shop to honor his late Uncle Bobbie who had an important influence on his racial consciousness and exposure to African American authors. Hill's goal in opening this coffee shop was to foster the love of books and good conversation in the community, the way his uncle did for him.

Johnson House

Best For: Historical Bae

Not too far off from Uncle Bobbies Coffee & Books is one of the most memorable and historical sites in Philadelphia. Located in the colonial Germantown historic district, the Johnson House has received National Historic Landmark designation for its role in the Underground Railroad. Tours offer visitors an opportunity to learn about the injustices of slavery and the 19th-century resident Johnson family, who participated in the Underground Railroad and risked their lives to offer freedom to seekers. This is the ideal spot for history buffs.

Philadelphia Distilling

Best For: Boozy Bae

If you love a good drink and you're looking to get away from your neighborhood haunt in favor of something new and exciting, the Philadelphia Distilling is the ideal pick. Since the prohibition, Philadelphia Distilling is the first craft distillery to open in the state of Pennsylvania. Located in Philly's trendy Fishtown neighborhood, the 15,000 square foot facility features a bar/lounge (with patio in warmer months), a retail store, snack offerings, and a tour. The tour, which lasts about 75 minutes and starts at $15, includes a full tasting of the distillerys products and provides an in-depth look at the history of the distillery and the process of making its liquors. Kick your feet up and enjoy cocktails featuring their products. If the date isn't a success, at least the drink will be.

Harp & Crown

Best For: Set The Mood Bae

Harp & Crown restaurant is the ideal choice for those seeking an intimate date space. Formerly a Gap outlet store, this space has been revamped and invoked with new life and energy, thanks to its great food and enveloping ambiance. With historical portraits adorning the walls, hanging plants, mismatched vintage chairs, exposed brick, and cascading chandeliers there is something new to discover in every corner of the restaurant. The menu, created by co-executives Max Hosey and Jhon Ghiraldo, is designed to highlight seasonal ingredients and global cuisines. It includes a wide array of options including meals for those with allergies, such as gluten intolerance.

Oh, and let's not forget there's a bowling alley downstairs  the perfect way to cap off a romantic dinner.

Barnes Foundation

Best For: Artsy Bae

Philly has a strong and vibrant arts scene with a deep passion for all forms of art from murals to film. While the city doesnt have a designated gallery district (a la NYCs Chelsea), theres no shortage of artistic creations to find throughout the city.

Whether your date is an art connoisseur or just someone who appreciates art and loves the feeling of being inches away from a collection of inestimable value, the Barnes Foundation is a must-see. This space holds some of the worlds finest collections of impressionist, post-impressionist and early modern paintings including 181 Renoirs, 69 Cezannes and 59 Matisses, along with works by Manet, Degas, Seurat, and Picasso. This space will not only impress the art fan, it is bound to get the creative juices flowing for good conversation and discussion.

Max's Steaks

Best For: Hangry Bae

If you're looking for a date meal spot that's quick, but tasty, Maxs Cheesesteak is where its at. When it comes to good eating in Philly, the Philly Cheesesteak is one of the most delicious and beloved dishes of the city. However, you cannot make an authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak sandwich without an authentic Philadelphia roll. While different institutions have their own claims to fame the key elements are the same  a locally baked long roll thats sturdy but soft on the inside, chopped or sliced griddle-fried beef, melted cheese (Whiz, American or provolone), and the option of fried onions.

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The acquisition is led by Chris Price, EY Global Head of Alliances  Tax, who will become CEO of EY Riverview Law once the acquisition is complete. He believes there is a need for a wider range of services.

I have yet to meet a general counsel function that is under employed, so providing a simple mechanism to assess tasks, assess the requisite skills to achieve those tasks and allocating internal and external advisor skillsets appropriately while helping the legal function to drive the maximum value and service quality is what we will seek to do, he said.

The acquisition, which is conditional on the satisfaction of closing conditions, is expected to complete on 31 August 2018. Riverview Law will be known as EY Riverview Law.

HSF helps CEFC enter build-to-rent market

A team from Herbert Smith Freehills in Sydney have advised the Clean Energy Finance Corporation on its first investment in the Australian build-to-rent market.

CEFC has invested A$50 million in the newly-launched Australian Build to Rent Club founded by Mirvac.
Two solicitors in the UK landed in hot water in two separate cases before the UKs Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT).

Andrew John Peters was struck off by the SDT after it found him to be a danger to road users, during two separate occasions in May 2016. He was convicted of drink driving, but he was again caught driving an unsuitable car without insurance within a week after his conviction.

He failed to report his convictions to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), which prompted the SDT to consider that a lesser sanction would not be appropriate.
Since its introduction in April, Brabham has embarked in a world-tour of sorts, taking the BT62 from the Australian racetracks to the European ones, and all the way to American motoring events.Starting August 17, the BT62 will be on site for the Monterey Car Week, which concludes with the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.In early June, Brabham said the car will be getting a so-called Celebration Series, one which will see half of the cars to be produced (35, that is) getting different liveries in honor of each of the 35 Formula 1 wins for the builder.For the remaining 35 cars, Brabham would be offering the Signature Series, meaning paying customers would be able to have Brabham paint the cars in whatever color they want, to echo their own personal hallmark.The first car to be produced, the BT62/01, honors Dan Gurneys BT7 and was shown at an official unveiling in Australia. Now, it is heading to the U.S., to be shown during the Monterey event.As a country, the US holds great significance for the family, and continued importance for the Brabham racing dynasty, and were proud to be showcasing the car to the worlds most discerning motoring enthusiasts at Monterey Car Week, said in a statement David Brabham.The BT62 is priced at 1 million plus local taxes, and before options. Thats well over $1.7 million. It comes with a 5.4-liter V8 that cranks out 710 horsepower for a body that weighs only 972 kg (2,143 lbs).It's unclear what success the car has had on racing enthusiasts. On several occasion, Brabham said that the BT62 has already landed the first deposits, without saying how many.
EV

In addition to being shockingly affordable, Dacia doesnt boast about what it certainly isnt and doesn't even want to be. You can take the Sandero and Duster at face value because theyre nothing else than cheap means of personal transportation. The companys marketing strategy reflects the modest nature of its cars, even though Dacia also likes to spruce things up by means of humor The Duster is the largest product in the lineup, coming with seating for five, frugal engine options, and a Nissan-sourced all-wheel-drive system that sends up to 50 percent of the torque to the rear axle. At 9,995, the Duster also happens to be the cheapest SUV on sale in the United Kingdom.People have been talking about a larger version of the Duster for ages now, and the answer to a seven-seat crossover is no. Speaking to Autocar.co.uk , brand boss Louise OSullivan said that Dacia has no plans to follow the industrys trend towards larger SUVs.The reason is  as expected  the higher price that would not fit within Dacia s target [customer pool]. Even though its not available in the United Kingdom, the brand offers something called Lodgy in Romania. The people carrier with seating for seven, however, isnt selling as well as the Sandero, Duster, and Logan.What you can expect from Dacia, however, is something with the silhouette of a shooting brake . The company is also looking forward to full electrification in the 2020s, with theknow-how coming from Renault and Nissan.Autonomous driving is science-fiction in this context, but on the other hand, Dacia plans to level up the 7.0-inch Media Nav with a different, more comprehensive infotainment system. And on that note, next year will see the all-new Sandero roll out to dealer showrooms, switching to the B-segment platform of the Common Module Family.
The New York Sire Stakes road show changes its downstate cast of characters Tuesday night, with Yonkers Raceways hosting the $166,499 Mike Cipriani Trot for three-year-old fillies.

The race(s) again honour the memory of the Raceways long-time, award-winning photographer.

Post time for the 12-race wagering card is the usual 6:50 p.m., though the first ($54,833) of the sire stakes goes as the last of the four pre-program non-bettors (beginning at 5:30 p.m.).

Tuesdays first (second programmed) event ($55,833) is the sixth race, including Lima Novelty (Scott Zeron, post 4) returning to the Empire. The daughter of Chapter Seven, owned by Ken Jacobs and trained by Linda Toscano, is 4-for-6 since adding the straps, all the wins in statebred competition. Overall, shes 4-for-9 this season ($97,394).

Ciao Dolce (Ake Svanstedt, post 2) chased Lima Novelty around Vernon in her last try, part of a symmetrical (eight starts, two wins, two seconds, two thirds) seasonal worksheet.

The second carded divisionthird and finalof the Cipriani ($55,833) goes as the eighth race, with defending statebred champ Lucky Ava (Svanstedt) winning the draw among the half-dozen.

The daughter of Lucky Chucky has offered up another solid season, as in four wins and three seconds in eight starts ($107,618). Svanstedt co-owns (with Little E LLC and Van Camp Trotting) and trains the lass, whos won half of her 18 career starts ($311,214).

Tribute To Seven (Scott Zeron, post 2) is thrice a winner this season, hitting the board in all but one of her seven tries, while Dew To Win (Trond Smedshammer, post 5) blew away a sire stakes field at Monticello as part of her resume.

(Yonkers Raceway)
The icon of the world water speed records was Donald Campbell, holder of eight absolute such achievements and to this date the single man to have set the speed records for both land and water in the same year.For his aquatic runs, Campbell used the Bluebird, a jet engined hydroplane powered by a Metropolitan-Vickers Beryl axial-flow turbojet engine.Capable of generating 3500 pound-force (16 kN) of thrust, the Bluebird managed to propel the driver-pilot to a top speed of 178 miles per hour (286 kph), nearly 100 miles per hour (162 kph) faster than the existing record of the time.In 1967, while trying to reach a top speed of 300 miles per hour (480 kph) on Coniston Water, the third largest lake in the English Lake District, Campbell was killed, and his vehicle sank to the bottom.The machine stood there until 2001 when it was brought to the surface together with human remains confirmed to have been Campbells. Whereas the body was buried on the premises of a church located in the vicinity, the Bluebird entered a restoration process that lasted 17 years.This past weekend, the vehicle once again took to the water, this time on Loch Fad on the Isle of Bute in Scotland. The team of 14 engineers who worked on the project, led by Bill Smith, says the resurrected Bluebird is made of 98 percent of the original parts.As per Daily Mail , even if the vehicle has been restored, it will not be used to set a new speed record. Currently, the Bluebird is conducting low-speed tests, and it will continue to do so throughout August.The team is hopeful they will manage to get it fully operational within a year, although they did not say what they will use it for.
In fact, its gotten so bad that even Shiggy, the comedian who inadvertently started the frenzy, is reaching out to beg people to stop doing it. So, if you think jumping out of a moving car to do a dance routine is smart or funny or could earn you likes, just STAHP.You can see Shiggys message in full in the video at the bottom of the page. He explains his intention was never to get people to put themselves at risk. Hes right: he was the one to do the routine in the street in the first place, but he didnt do it out of a moving car. He simply stepped out of his car, which was stopped at the time.Somehow, people added a twist to it and its been putting them in hospitals all over the world. If you dont know, the challenge sees wannabe and professional dancers jump out of a car that rolls at about 10mph, to do the routine from Drakes In My Feelings single.Many of them, like the dude in the Instagram below, were hit by incoming cars, or fell from their own vehicles, or were injured in some other way. There are various subtrends with just the many ways the challenge can go wrong.So Shiggy is putting his foot down. For the record, authorities in various states and countries (including Spain and the UK) have taken to social media to advise against the challenge, because its dangerous and irresponsible.The comedian is telling people to have fun and enjoy Drakes music and dance routine without putting themselves  and others  at risk. That involves, naturally,jumping out of moving cars.
SpaceX launched on Tuesday from Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida the Merah Putih satellite for PT Telkom Indonesia. The hardware was carried to geostationary orbit by the Block 5 Falcon 9.This weeks launch marked the rockets first reused deployment following the first ever launch which took place in May 2018. Just like during the previous mission, the first stage of the rocket was recovered, as it successfully landed on SpaceX's Of Course I Still Love You drone-ship in the Atlantic Ocean.The Block 5 is part of the Full Thrust variant of the Falcon 9, a family of rockets which feature improved landing legs and grid fins, several structural improvements and weighs less than its predecessors. It is also the final version of the Falcon 9 booster.Because helium pressurant tanks were responsible for a Falcon 9 rocket explosion at Cape Canaveral in 2016, the new rocket uses redesigned such hardware as well.SpaceX has huge plans for the Block 5. The company plans to achieve such a quick turnaround for the rockets that two successful launches in a single day would not be impossible. Such a rapid-fire launch rate would significantly increase the number of missions that can be done for various entities, hence vastly increasing the cash flowing into SpaceXs accounts.Following its first launch, the Block 5 is designed to last for another 99 missions. Such an achievement would mark yet another milestone in space exploration, as no other rocket has been reused as many times in human history.Elon Musk said back in May that his company plans to relaunch the Stage 5 for three or four more times by the end of the year.
Now we take a trip to India, where Suzuki is present through Maruti Suzuki . The Baleno is one of the cars on sale in this part of the world, and starting from the next fiscal year, Toyota will badge-engineer the subcompact hatchback for all the right (and wrong) reasons.Even though everybody knows it is built by and engineered by Suzuki, Toyota decided to re-market the Baleno as a means to grab a larger share of the new vehicle market in India. LiveMint expects the newcomer to undergo some minor changes in its exterior and interior before arriving at dealers nationwide.According to the cited publication, Suzuki is likely to supply as many as 25,000 Maruti Suzuki Baleno premium hatchbacks each year to Toyota as the car gets set to become the first cross-badged product of the automakers.It should be mentioned that the source cites insider information, with spokespeople from Toyota and Suzuki declining to comment on the matter. What we do know for sure, however, is that both parties signed an agreement in March 2018 to sell each others models in India.As part of the agreement, the Vitara Breeza sport utility vehicle will be marketed by Toyota and the Corolla sedan will be sold by Suzuki. For the time being, it should be mentioned the Baleno sells an average of 15,000 examples per month in the South Asian country.Toyota anyways doesnt have any major investment plans in India until 2020, one of the sources told LiveMint, and the Baleno is a product which is being exported to other countries including Japan hence there will be no issue regarding quality.
#bologna #BorgoPanigale Le immagini della dinamica del grave incidente che ha coinvolto anche un mezzo che trasportava sostanze infiammabili. Indagini in corso #PoliziaStradale pic.twitter.com/aS8NKxTaoA  Polizia di Stato (@poliziadistato) August 6, 2018

#BorgoPanigale #6ago 15.00, squadre #vigilidelfuoco al lavoro: inviate sul posto sezioni operative, nucleo #usar e #cinofili. In corso la ricognizione aerea elicottero reparto volo di Bologna pic.twitter.com/TtPdGSFWz1  Vigili del Fuoco (@emergenzavvf) August 6, 2018

#BorgoPanigale #6ago 17:00, esplosione autocisterna: spente le fiamme, in corso le operazioni di raffreddamento. Squadre #vigilidelfuoco verificano la presenza di vittime pic.twitter.com/PFynIG5aoJ  Vigili del Fuoco (@emergenzavvf) August 6, 2018

Scenes from the accident were uploaded on social media by the Italian fire service and eyewitnesses. The crash was captured on surveillance cameras, showing the tanker speeding right into the truck stopped in traffic.The tanker was full of flammable material, so the explosion was immediate. A huge fireball spread on the highway, with the majority of those injured being burned by the flames or hit by flying debris and shards of glass. Reports in the Italian media note that the windows of nearby buildings were also shattered by the blast of the explosion.The shockwave from the blast was extremely violent. Many of the injured received cuts from flying glass, which had shattered, Giovanni Carella, the emergency coordinator for the local fire service, explained.The blast was felt all the way to the airport terminal, reports say.As the fire burned strong, part of the bridge collapsed. The fire then spread to a carpark below, with several cars catching fire and exploding, the BBC reports.Until authorities cleared the highway, many roads in Borgo Panigale were shut down. This caused further delay in traffic, as they served as connection to the nearby airport, which is used by many tourists, especially now that the holiday season is at its peak.An investigation into the causes of the crash is currently underway. An estimate of the damage caused in the blast hasnt been made yet, but authorities should go on the record with more details in the coming hours.As of this moment, all fires have been extinguished and the situation is under control.
The Philippine Red Cross gets a new ambulance in their fleet, and it comes courtesy of Foton. The Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer has donated a high-roof variant of the TransVan to the organization to further boost their ambulance fleet size.

As part of our corporate social responsibility, the donation of this ambulance aims to provide immediate response to the humanitarian situations through efficient means of transportation in line with the objectives of the Philippine Red Cross, said Rommel Sytin, president of Foton Philippines.

Foton mentions that the longer, taller TransVan HR offers several key advantages as an emergency vehicle, chief among which is space to allow paramedics to move freely in the ambulance. They added that, with more space, there is also more room for medical equipment and the patient inside the vehicle. Foton's donated ambulance's interior is also specifically designed for paramedic purposes.

It comes with a wheeled stretcher, along with an adjustable back rest to ensure patient comfort. Plus, there's a heavy-duty spine board equipped in the ambulance as well. There are three front-facing reclining seats with seat belts to allow paramedics to monitor as comfortably as possible. On top of that, there are additional cabin air exhaust fan apart from the vehicles existing heating and air conditioning system. 12V and 220V power sockets are there to assist in operating and recharging the on-board medical equipment. First aid kits, stethoscopes, an aneroid blood pressure monitor, and ambulatory bags are also available inside the vehicle.
Want to drive on EDSA solo? Now you may not be able to, at least during rush hours.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has gained the approval of the Metro Manila Council (MMC) for two traffic-mitigating measures that would soon affect both private and public utility vehicles along EDSA: the HOV or high occupancy vehicle lane policy, as well as new rules concerning provincial buses.

According to MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia, the mayors gave their all-out support to the agencys plan to enforce a new policy that would implement HOV lanes (also known as carpool lanes) along EDSA during rush hours. Under the measure, only those vehicles with two or more passengers will be allowed to travel through the busy thoroughfare.

We have a data that 70 percent of vehicles along EDSA carry only the driver, said Garcia. Garcia said they will craft the guidelines of the measure and will conduct a dry run before its full implementation. The MMDA is hoping to encourage the concept of carpooling with this proposed scheme.

The approval, which was announced by the MMDA, did not clarify a few important terms such as the actual definition of rush hours, or the use of the term passengers instead of occupants. Also, it did not clarify whether all the available private vehicle lanes of EDSA are to be considered HOV lanes, or whether the MMDA would designate a special lane.

In the same announcement, the MMDA will also work on implementing a new regulation governing provincial buses. The Metro Manila mayors also approved the implementation of provincial bus regulation along EDSA In spite of the approval, Garcia said they are still contemplating whether to push for the policys implementation on August 15.

Mayor Rex Gatchalian gave his 100 percent support. However, we have to fix some facilities and other infrastructure at the Valenzuela Interim Terminal. We are not in a hurry to implement the policy as we want to make sure everything is in order, said Garcia. With that, select provincial buses coming from the north shall end its route at the Valenzuela Interim Terminal while those coming from the south shall end their route at South Interim Provincial Terminal.

Along with those measures, the MMC also approved the increase in exemption fee for the Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program from P300 to 1,000.

The MMC is composed of the mayors of the cities and one municipality that make up Metro Manila.
Technology is bringing a new level of capabilities to the auto industry, and Motor Image, the distributor of Subaru in many Asian markets (including ours) is embracing that trend.

To address concerns such as lack of space at showrooms to display every model and the desire of their customers to view specific models in particular colors, Subaru will be making use of some special technology: augmented reality, and virtual reality.

During the launch of the new generation Subaru Forester, Motor Image let us try out the new technology package that they will roll out into their showrooms in the region, ours included. The virtual reality (or VR) component involves the use of headsets that allows customers to view a particular Subaru model. The VR set lets the client peruse the features of the car and have a 360-degree view around and inside the vehicle, all in a virtual space.

The software and the VR hardware also have the capability to showcase the capabilities of the EyeSight driver assist system such as detection, emergency braking, among others, in a safe virtual environment.

The overall package also includes augmented reality software that allows Subaru to show their clients every single color and every variant of all the models that Motor Image offers; and the features will be customized for every country, including the Philippines.

VHQ, the developer of the software, says that they spent up to 3 million Singapore dollars (about PhP 116 million) working on the programs. The hardware will cost around 4 to 5 thousand Singapore dollars (PhP 155,000-194,000).

We're working on how to localize it for our smaller regional dealers, said Mr. Glenn Tan, Managing Director of Tan Chong International, the parent company of Motor Image. We are full speed ahead to do this. This is not just a demo.

Motor Image's chief executive also says that they plan to make the technology available at all Subaru dealerships in the Philippines. The new Subaru Pasig dealership will be the flagship, and will be equipped to have the technology available for their customers.
Thunder Mountain: NPS

A pilot and four tourists from Poland are reported to have died after a de Havilland Beaver crashed at about 11,000 feet near the summit of Thunder Mountain in Denali National Park, in Alaska, during a sightseeing flight on Saturday. It was the first fatal crash of an air taxi in the Alaska range since 2003, according to the National Park Service. The pilot reported the crash on his satellite phone, and said everyone survived but there were injuries. No further details were relayed before the connection was dropped. Due to low cloud cover and weather and the steep terrain, rescuers were unable to reach the airplane until Monday morning. They confirmed there were four people on board, but all were dead. The fifth person is believed to also be in the airplane, but due to the hazardous conditions, rescuers were on the site for only a few minutes and were unable to thoroughly search the wreck. The flight was operated by K2 Aviation, based in Talkeetna.

Thunder Mountain has been described by the National Park Service as more of a ridge than a mountain, according to National Parks Traveler. It stretches roughly a mile long from east to west and rises about 3,000 feet above two nearby glaciers. Terrain in the vicinity of the crash site is characterized as extremely steep and a mix of near-vertical rock, ice and snow, the NPS said. On Sunday, flight crews with the Air National Guard patrolled the area in a C-130, and two HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopters conducted aerial overflights of the accident zone, but search conditions were hampered by zero visibility and low cloud cover.

The rescue effort also included flights by the NPS high-altitude helicopter and a U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook from Fort Wainwright in Talkeetna. On Monday morning, An NPS ranger was short-hauled to the crash site (suspended beneath the helicopter) where he dug through the snow that had filled the aircraft and found the bodies of four of the five passengers, NPS wrote in a statement. There were no footprints or disturbances leading away from the site and there were no other signs to indicate any of the passengers made it out of the plane.
School Improvement Grants from the U.S. Department of Education had a significant positive effect on student achievement in Ohio schools , according to a new study published by two academics.

The study, School Improvement Grants in Ohio: Effects on Student Achievement and School Administration, found that by the second year of schools becoming eligible for federal SIG funding, students at those schools performed significantly better in both math and reading than those at schools that just missed the cut-off for becoming SIG-eligible. The academic gains for those students at SIG-eligibile schools increased during the third year of SIG eligibility. The achievement gains persisted into the fourth year, but diminished somewhat.

Staffing turnover at the SIG-eligible schools was comparable to that of schools that came close to but did not end up qualifying for SIG, although the latter group of schools already had high rates of staff turnover: 70 percent over four years. During the time period studied by the authors, school spending increased significantly as well at the SIG-eligible schoolstotal per-student spending rose by 11 to 14 percent in the second year of eligibility, 18 to 23 percent in the third year, and 9 to 11 percent in the fourth year.



The study was written by Deven Carlson, an associate professor and associate director for education at the National Institute for Risk and Resilience at the University of Oklahoma, and Stephane Lavertu, an associate professor at Ohio State University who studies education policy. It was published in the academic journal Educational Evaluation and Policy Analysis.

The $7 billion SIG program was one of the more hotly contested pieces of the Obama education blueprint. SIG was originally authorized under the No Child Left Behind Act, before President Barack Obama took office, but got a big makeoverand a lot more cashduring the Obama administration. Obamas long-time Secretary of Education Arne Duncan has said the grants got less attention than the administraitions Race to the Top initiative, but were crucial to his departments plan for helping schools, and talked them up as a big part of his education legacy. (Duncan has written a book about his tenure at the Education Department, which we offer highlights from here .)

However, an Institute for Education Sciences report released at the end of the Obama administration and covering hundreds of schools found that the SIG program, which exceeded the price tag for Race to the Top by roughly $3 billion, failed to move the needle on student achievement .

Previous studies of SIG also paint a mixed picture of the programs effect on schools .

Ohio received $130 million in SIG money during the academic years covered by the study, and 107 schools received SIG funds across three different cohort years, all of which were during the Obama administration. Of the major SIG strategies used in Ohio schools, none involved closing schools, the study says.

Carlson and Lavertu warn that good SIG news from the Buckeye State in their report comes with caveats. For example, they stress that their research shows no evidence that students improved performance under SIG in Ohio will be long-term. They also highlight the history of research showing different outcomes for federal school improvement aid.

And they point out that while differences in staff turnover between SIG-eligible schools and their close-but-not-quite peers were negligible overall, teachers at schools using the turnaround SIG model were less likely to be employed at the same school three to four years later than schools using the transformation model. Under turnaround models, a new school principal took over, and the new principal in turn could rehire no more than 50 percent of the previous staff. Transformation models also involved a new principal but not the same level of required staff turnover.



If prior school improvement efforts are any guide, there are reasons to think that these achievement increases may ultimately prove transitory, Carlson and Lavertu wrote.

Read the full study here .

Assistant Editor Sarah D. Sparks contributed to this post.

Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 . And follow the Andrew Ujifusa half of Politics K-12 @AndrewUjifusa .
It may have taken 11 weeks, but there is officially a new leader atop the 2018 Hambletonian Society/Breeders Crown Standardbred Poll.

This past Saturday (August 4), Canadian-based trotting filly Atlanta became just the 14th filly in the 93-year history of the Hambletonian to defeat the boys and capture harness racing's richest prize for three-year-olds. She put forth a wire-to-wire performance in the final, as she pinned a one-length victory on her male foes in a sharp 1:50.4 at the Meadowlands Racetrack.

For a complete recap of Atlantas Hambletonian win, click here. For a complete recap of Hambletonian Day at the Big M, click here.

Courtesy of her Hambo win, Atlanta attracted the most points (335) in Week 11 of the Hambletonian Society/Breeders Crown Standardbred Poll. In taking over the top spot, Atlanta has relegated her fellow trotting distaff star, Hannelore Hanover, to the No. 2 spot.

On Saturday at the Meadowlands, Hannelore Hanover tasted defeat for the first time this season, as she finished a half-length back in third to Marion Marauder in the $286,650 John Cashman Memorial, which was contested at the distance of one and one-eighth miles and was clocked in 2:06. Hannelore Hanover attracted 310 points in Week 11 voting.

Courtesy of her 1:50, wire-to-wire win in the $500,000 Hambletonian Oaks, Manchego has vaulted herself back up into the polls top 10. After having been just short of the top 10 in Week 10 voting, Manchego has now leaped up to third on the poll, as she attracted 229 points in the voting.

The results from Week 11 of the poll appear below.

(Rank  Horse [first-place votes]  Total Points  Previous)

1  Atlanta (23)  335  4

2  Hannelore Hanover (11)  310  1

3  Manchego  229  N/A

4  Shartin N (1)  224  7

5  McWicked  176  2

6  Lather Up  123  8

7  Ariana G  96  3

8  Marion Marauder  87  N/A

9  Courtly Choice  77  5

10  Kissin In The Sand  75  6

Also: Youaremycandygirl (45); Stay Hungry (37); Western Joe (20); Dont Letem (19); Crystal Fashion (15); Phaetosive, Six Pack (11); Dorsoduro Hanover, Wolfgang (6); Jimmy Freight, Plunge Blue Chip, Sonnet Grace (4); Melodies Major (3); Dream Together, Filibuster Hanover (2); Bit Of A Legend N, De Los Cielos Deo, Fox Valley Gemini, The Ice Dutchess (1).

The Hambletonian Society/Breeders Crown poll is voted on by harness racing media representatives that cover North American Standardbred racing.

The rankings are based on the votes of harness racing media representatives on a 10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 basis.

The Hambletonian Society/Breeders Crown poll does not determine Horse of the Year. The U.S. Harness Writers Association votes in December on all Dan Patch Award division winners plus Trotter of the Year, Pacer of the Year and Horse of the Year. The Dan Patch Awards are separate from the O'Brien Awards, which recognize Canada's top Standardbreds of a given racing season.
Image: NASA

NASA has announced the names of nine astronauts who will be among the first people to launch into space aboard commercially built spacecraft. After the initial test flights, crews will travel to the International Space Station (ISS) using the Boeing Crew Space Transportation (CST)-100 Starliner and the SpaceX Crew Dragon. These missions will mark the first time astronauts have launched from U.S. soil since the retirement of the space shuttle in 2011.

The first manned SpaceX demo flight is tentatively scheduled to launch into low-Earth orbit in April 2019 with astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley on board. An unmanned test flight is scheduled to take place this November. The first manned test flight of the Starlinercrewed by Eric Boe, Christopher Ferguson and Nicole Aunapu Mannis planned for mid-2019 following an unmanned test in either late 2018 or early 2019. If the tests are successful, NASA says it will certify the companies for ISS crew rotation missions.

The men and women we assign to these first flights are at the forefront of this exciting new time for human spaceflight, said Mark Geyer, director of NASAs Johnson Space Center in Houston. It will be thrilling to see our astronauts lift off from American soil, and we cant wait to see them aboard the International Space Station. After the test flights, astronauts Josh Cassada and Sunita Williams are slated to fly the first Starliner mission to the ISS. Victor Glover and Michael Hopkins will take the first Crew Dragon mission. NASA says more crew members will be assigned by its international partners at a later date.

The SpaceX Crew Dragon will launch using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. It is a manned version of the companys Dragon, which became the first commercial spacecraft to deliver cargo to the space station in 2012. SpaceX says the Crew Dragon will be fully autonomous, allowing it to be monitored and controlled by mission control as well as by the astronauts on board.

Boeings Starliner space capsule was designed to accommodate seven passengersor a mix of crew and cargofor low-Earth orbit missions. Boeing says the Starliner capsule is reusable up to 10 times with a six-month turnaround time. It will be launched via a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket. Both the Crew Dragon and the Starliner will depart from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida.
A spokesperson for Georgia's secretary of states office tells Axios human error is responsible for the outsize number of ballots cast in a northeastern county (670) compared to how many voters were registered beforehand (276), numbers which McClatchys Christine Condon reported this week.

Why it matters: That's not Georgias only election problem. At least one of the state's county websites has been a target of Russian hacking attempts, according to a Mueller indictment. Cybersecurity experts have found vulnerabilities in an election server in the state, and court filings in a federal suit, brought by cybersecurity experts against the state, allege several issues with the states voting machines and voter registration.

From the court filing, per McClatchy: Several voters went on the record to describe frozen voting machines that seemingly failed to record votes on Election Day, machines that received the incorrect Congressional District's ballot to vote on, and voters who showed up at the polling location they were directed to by the state, only to be told to vote elsewhere.

Its not clear these problems resulted from cybersecurity flaws or manipulation  they could have happened due to human error.

What they're saying: "We havent had any evidence that the voting equipment has ever been compromised," the spokesperson, Candice Broce, told Axios.

The big picture: Georgias voting systems are 16 years old, and the state cant double check if its election results are accurate because it uses voting machines that dont have a paper trail. It is one of 14 states in the U.S. that also have this problem.

The money: Its unclear how Georgia plans to spend the more than $10 million it is receiving from Congress omnibus for election security improvements, per the Atlanta Journal Constitution. Secretary of State Brian Kemp has a bipartisan commission examining whether the state should change its voting machines before 2020, per McClatchy.

Other problems: A security researcher has repeatedly warned about a vulnerability in an election server in the state that would have allowed him to access and possibly alter the state's voter database.
Ivanka Trump is planning to head to Illinois on Wednesday to tout workforce development, where she'll lead a roundtable at the Lewis and Clark Community College and spotlight the school's modernized welding program, the AP reports.

White House spokeswoman Jessica Ditto told the AP that Trump's visit will be the first of many aimed at promoting the president's new national council for American workers. Ditto said the council is specifically targeting the needs of manufacturing workers.
LAS VEGAS  At this week's Black Hat cybersecurity conference, panels about hacking automobiles and airplane WiFi are being interspersed with a new focus: mental health.

Why it matters: Issues like anxiety and depression aren't new in the cybersecurity field, and stress is rampant: pros work long hours under enormous pressure to protect critical networks from ever-increasing threats. Black Hat's new focus on the people, not just the technology, may instigate broader industry changes.

The big picture: The leading cybersecurity conference has long had conference tracks like cryptography, forensics and incident response. This will mark the first year the "community" track joins that roster to provide a place to talk about less technical, more human issues.

Black Hat has a large industry presence, and shining a light on topics that tend to be discussed outside the corporate eye  things like suicide, stress load, mental illness and trauma  may force major employers in the field to think about those issues, too.

"Good conferences are a reflection of the community," said Black Hat General Manager Steve Wylie. "We have a responsibility to the community."

Wylie said they received more speaking proposals on the topics than speaking slots available, which he said indicated a strong response.

Mental illness and suicide: "In the past year I know several people in the community have taken their own lives," said Jay Radcliffe of Boston Scientific. "Its a sad thing, and something I feel responsible to talk about." Radcliffe, well known for hacking devices, will be presenting about his own experience with depression with Christian Dameff, an emergency medicine physician.

"With global staffing shortages in information security, we're seeing departments that should have 10 people work with 5. And that increases stress," said Radcliffe.

Anecdotal evidence suggests high prevalence of mental illness in the information security community, perhaps heightened by the hacker subculture attracting people from a variety of backgrounds, some of which may involve preexisting mental health conditions.

A separate presentation will discuss the high instance of autism in the field.

Stress: Two researchers from the National Security Agency, Celeste Paul and Josiah Dykstra, will release NSA data on the effect of stress on operator performance and how to combat it. "We did see effects," said Paul.

Post-tramatic stress disorder: Cybersecurity also draws a wide array of ex-military members, including Dragos Security's Joe Slowik, who served in the Navy.

Slowik will talk about his experience with PTSD.

"The talk itself was a spur-of-the-moment reaction to an article on 'cybersecurity PTSD,' which the author was using to mean burnout from all of the breaches," he said. "Seeing terminology come up in a way that was almost flippant bothered me."

Sexual assault: Slowik notes that PTSD isn't exclusive to ex-military practitioners. Cybersecurity, like other industries, has faced a reckoning in recent years as victims of sexual assault and harassment have come forward.

Makenzie Peterson, coordinator for wellness programs at Hampshire College, will discuss how communities on the whole move forward after widespread allegations of sexual assault.

The bottom line: The community track is a chance to change the industry. "Theres such a talent shortage right now that companies may need to take advantage of community track to recruit employees," said Radcliffe.

Correction: An earlier version of this story misspelled Joe Slowik's name. The story has been updated.
White House officials sought to reassure tech industry representatives at a private meeting last week that the Trump administration's pugnacious trade policies will ultimately aid their businesses, according to multiple sources.

Why it matters: A trade war between the U.S. and China could put a big dent in the long run of profits and growth that the tech world has seen over the last decade, so its lobbyists have pushed to soften the administration's stance.

What were hearing:

Tariffs the White House has been imposing against China were a major focus of the Thursday meeting, held in the Indian Treaty Room of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next to the White House, according to two sources.

against China were a major focus of the Thursday meeting, held in the Indian Treaty Room of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building next to the White House, according to two sources. Many focused their remarks on China, and specifically on the tariffs, and wanting to understand the roadmap that the administration is pursuing, said one source familiar with the meeting.

White House officials argued that tariffs will help the administration push China to change course on issues that matter to tech, including the forced transfer of American intellectual property into Chinese hands, according to two sources.

that tariffs will help the administration push China to change course on issues that matter to tech, including the forced transfer of American intellectual property into Chinese hands, according to two sources. One source said that the administration did its best to suggest there is a coherent strategy behind all this churn" that will ultimately be good for industry.

The big picture: Tech groups have expressed concerns about President Trumps tariffs on Chinese goods, arguing for other ways to address their concerns about an important market for the industry.

Hardware companies rely on supply chains out of China.

Internet companies have been angling to break into the Chinese market, or return to it.

The White House meeting was attended by staffers for trade groups representing the tech and telecom industries, as well as representatives of some individual companies, a source familiar with the meeting said.

Representatives from the White House included officials from the Department of Commerce, the U.S. Trade Representative, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the Treasury Department and the National Economic Council.

While the tariffs were a major focus of the meeting, attendees talked about a wide range of topics, multiple sources said, including:

OSTPs work on emerging technologies;

the North American Free Trade Agreement, which is being re-negotiated; and

recent efforts to make changes to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States.

What's next: Another source familiar with the meeting said that tech attendees appreciated the opportunity to discuss the issues with the White House, and that industry hopes the meetings will continue.
By Trend

Over the past 24 hours, Armenian armed forces have 80 times violated the ceasefire along the line of contact between Azerbaijani and Armenian troops, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry said August 7.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts.

The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented four UN Security Council resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
By Rashid Shirinov

As in the past, today the situation in the military units of the Armenian armed forces leaves much to be desired. Sending their sons to army service has always been risky for Armenian families, as there is no guarantee for them to come back safe and sound because of the lawlessness and chaos in the Armenian army.

Much evidence of the murder of the soldier Levon Torosyan, who died in the Mehrab military unit of Armenia in May, have been recently discovered, representative of the victims successor, expert of the Peace Dialogue NGO Ruben Martirosyan told Armenian media.

The criminal case was opened based on the article "Incitement to suicide," but Martirosyan, who was present at the autopsy, back in May said that the soldier was killed. Now there are reasonable facts of this version.

The most important proof that Torosyan was killed is the soldiers phone conversation with his mother, which took place a few minutes before the incident. The mother told Martirosyan that their conversation was interrupted.

The Peace Dialogue expert insists that Torosyan was killed precisely at that time  first the murderer struck a strong blow to the soldiers groin area, as evidenced by the forensic examination, and then shot him. Martirosyan notes that the investigator, who says that Torosyans body was found at the observation post and that he committed suicide there, is trying to cover up the crime.

The expert is sure that the soldiers corpse and weapon were moved to the observation post and suicide was simulated by putting Torosyans machine gun close to his chin. This is evidenced by the fact that when examining the body, parallel scratches were discovered on the elbows  that is the corpse was moved. Earlier Torosyans father said that when the body was brought home, he noticed grass on his sons face.

In addition, it was found that all eight soldiers who were on the observation posts on that day were present at the scene of the incident and all of them had traces of copper metallization on them. This means the soldiers were at a maximum of 5 meters away from Torosyan during the murder, Martirosyan noted.

All this proves that the soldier of the Armenian army Levon Torosyan did not commit suicide, but was killed. Thus, the chaos in the military units of the Armenian armed forces continues to take lives of Armenian soldiers. Lack of discipline and hazing remain the main problems that result in murders of Armenian servicemen by their fellow soldiers.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
By Jeffrey D. Sachs

Modern humans, born into one climate era, called the Holocene, have crossed the border into another, the Anthropocene. But instead of a Moses guiding humanity in this new and dangerous wilderness, a gang of science deniers and polluters currently misguides humanity to ever-greater danger. We are all climate refugees now and must chart a path to safety.

The Holocene was the geological age that started more than 10,000 years ago, with favorable climate conditions that supported human civilization as we know it. The Anthropocene is a new geological era with environmental conditions that humanity has never before experienced. Ominously, the Earths temperature is now higher than during the Holocene, owing to the carbon dioxide that humanity has emitted into the atmosphere by burning coal, oil, and gas, and by indiscriminately turning the worlds forests and grasslands into farms and pastures.

People are suffering and dying in the new environment, with much worse to come. Hurricane Maria is estimated to have taken more than 4,000 lives in Puerto Rico last September. High-intensity hurricanes are becoming more frequent, and major storms are causing more flooding, because of the increased heat transfer from the warming waters of the oceans, the greater moisture in warmer air, and the rise in sea levels  all made more extreme by human-induced climate change.

Just last month, more than 90 people perished in the suburbs of Athens from a devastating forest fire stoked by drought and high temperatures. Huge forest fires are similarly raging this summer in other hot and newly dry locales, including California, Sweden, Britain, and Australia. Last year, Portugal was devastated. Many record-high temperatures are being reached around the world this summer.

How utterly reckless of humanity to have rushed past the Holocene boundary, ignoring  like a character in a horror movie  all of the obvious warning signs. In 1972, the worlds governments assembled in Stockholm to address the growing environmental threats. In the lead-up to the conference, the Club of Rome published The Limits to Growth, which first introduced the idea of a sustainable growth trajectory and the risks of environmental overshooting. Twenty years later, the warning signs flashed brightly in Rio de Janeiro, where United Nations member states assembled at the Earth Summit to adopt the concept of sustainable development and to sign three major environmental treaties to halt human-induced global warming, protect biological diversity, and stop land degradation and desertification.

After 1992, the United States, the worlds most powerful country, ostentatiously ignored the three new treaties, signaling to other countries that they could slacken their efforts as well. The US Senate ratified the climate and desertification treaties but did nothing to implement them. And it refused even to ratify the treaty to protect biological diversity, in part because western-state Republicans insisted that landowners have the right to do what they want with their property without international meddling.

More recently, the world adopted the Sustainable Development Goals in September 2015 and the Paris climate agreement in December 2015. Yet, once again, the US government has willfully ignored the SDGs, ranking last among the G20 countries in terms of government implementation efforts. And President Donald Trump has declared his intention to pull the US out of the Paris climate agreement at the earliest possible moment, 2020, four years after the accord entered into force.

Worse is to come. The human-caused rise in CO2 hasnt yet reached its full warming effect, owing to the considerable lag in its impact on ocean temperatures. There is still another 0.5 Celsius or so of warming to occur over the coming decades based on the current concentration of CO2(408 parts per million) in the atmosphere, and far more warming beyond that if CO2 concentrations continue to soar with the business-as-usual burning of fossil fuels. To achieve the Paris agreements goal of limiting warming to well below 2C relative to the pre-industrial level, the world needs to shift decisively from coal, oil, and gas to renewable energy by around 2050, and from deforestation to reforestation and restoration of degraded lands.

So why does humanity keep plunging dumbly ahead, toward certain tragedy?

The main reason is that our political institutions and giant corporations willfully ignore the rising dangers and damage. Politics is about obtaining and holding power and the perks of office, not about solving problems, even life-and-death environmental problems. Managing a major company is about maximizing shareholder value, not about telling the truth or avoiding great harm to the planet. Profit-seeking investors own the major media, or at least influence it through their advertising purchases. Thus, a small yet very powerful group maintains the fossil-fuel-based energy system at growing peril to the rest of humanity today and in the future.

Trump is the latest useful fool doing the polluters bidding, abetted by congressional Republicans who finance their election campaigns with contributions from environmental culprits such as Koch Industries. Trump has filled the US government with industry lobbyists who are systematically dismantling every environmental regulation they can reach. Most recently, Trump has nominated a former lawyer for mega-polluter Dow Chemical to lead the Environmental Protection Agencys Superfund toxic cleanup program. You cant make this stuff up.

We need a new kind of politics that starts with a clear global goal: environmental safety for the planets people, by fulfilling the Paris climate agreement, protecting biodiversity, and cutting pollution, which kills millions each year. The new politics will listen to scientific and technological experts, not self-interested business leaders and narcissistic politicians. Climatologists enable us to gauge the rising dangers. Engineers inform us how to make the rapid transition, by 2050, to zero-carbon energy. Ecologists and agronomists show us how to grow more and better crops on less land while ending deforestation and restoring previously degraded land.

Such a politics is possible. In fact, the public yearns for it. A large majority of the American people, for example, want to fight global warming, stay in the Paris climate agreement, and embrace renewable energy. Yet, as long as a narrow and ignorant elite condemn Americans and the rest of humanity to wander aimlessly in the political desert, the more likely it is that we will all end up in a wasteland from which there will be no escape.

Copyright: Project Syndicate: We are all climate refugees now

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By Trend

The efforts for diversification of Azerbaijans economy will open more opportunities for Romanian companies, Ambassador of Romania to Azerbaijan Dan Iancu said in an interview with Trend.

"I think that our economic cooperation has a lot of room to grow. Romania has a diverse economy, with a strong manufacturing base and a competitive service sector. At the same time, the economic growth is accelerating in Azerbaijan. Moreover, the efforts for the diversification of the Azerbaijani economy would provide not only a solid engine for sustainable growth, but also more opportunities for foreign companies, Romanian ones included," said the envoy.

As for the current status of the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Romania, Iancu said that the statistics show a good dynamic: the bilateral trade has grown without interruption over the past years.He noted that 2017 was a record-breaking year, with two-way trade reaching almost $400 million. "This makes Azerbaijan, by far, our biggest trade partner in the South Caucasus Region."

"We should take advantage of these factors and help our business circles discover this untapped potential. I am sure that the next meeting of the Joint Inter-Governmental Commission, which shall take place in Bucharest, will provide new impetus to our bilateral cooperation in the field of trade and various economic areas," added Iancu.

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By Rashid Shirinov

The second phase of the construction of the Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) is scheduled to be completed in June 2019, SOCAR Turkey Enerji told Trend on August 6.

The company noted that the work within this phase is now completed by 85 percent. By 2019, the pipeline will be laid to the Greek border. After completion of the test work, the gas will be delivered to Greece by the end of 2019.

TANAP transports gas from Azerbaijans Shah Deniz field to the western borders of Turkey. Shah Deniz, reserves of which are estimated at 1.2 trillion cubic meters of gas, is one of the largest fields of Azerbaijan. Within the second stage of the field development, the volume of gas production can be increased to 24 billion cubic meters per year, according to forecasts. After the completion of the Trans Adriatic Pipelines construction, the natural gas will be delivered to Europe in early 2020.

The length of TANAP is 1,850 kilometers, with the initial capacity of 16 billion cubic meters of gas. Around six billion cubic meters of this gas is meant to be delivered to Turkey, with the remaining volume to be supplied to Europe.

A ceremony to launch Phase 0 of TANAP took place June 12 in the Turkish city of Eskisehir. First commercial gas deliveries to Turkey commenced within the Southern Gas Corridor on June 30.

The share distribution in TANAP is as follows: Southern Gas Corridor CJSC - 51 percent, SOCAR Turkey Enerji - 7 percent, BOTAS - 30 percent, and BP - 12 percent.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

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Post positions have been drawn for Trials 1 and 2 of The Guardian Gold Cup & Saucer. The $12,500 trials will be contested this coming Saturday (Aug. 11) and Monday (Aug. 13), respectively, at Red Shores Charlottetown Driving Park.

The draw for the 59 edition of the stakes event took place Tuesday morning (Aug. 7) during a press conference at the Charlottetown Driving Park. The Gold Cup & Saucer is an open for pacers aged three years old and upward.

The $20,000 consolation will be raced next Friday (Aug. 17), while the $60,000 final will be the centrepiece of the CDPs Saturday, August 18 program of live racing.

The Gold Cup & Saucer has attracted 14 entrants, and thus each trial will house a field of seven.

Trial 1 (Saturday, August 11)

(Post  Horse)

1  Paparazzi Hanover

2  Fool Me Once

3  Somewhere Fancy

4  Rockin In Heaven

5  Father Of The Year

6  Rose Run Quest

7  Jackson K Down

Trial 2 (Monday, August 13)

(Post  Horse)

1  Always N The Money

2  Bet On Brett

3  Lincoln James

4  ASAP Hanover

5  Newbie

6  In Spades

7  Czar Seelster

Red Shores has also announced that new this year  in recognition of the outstanding contribution to the Gold Cup & Saucer by the late Mike MacDonald  the winning driver of The Guardian Gold Cup and Saucer will be presented with the first Mike MacDonald Memorial Trophy. For more on MacDonalds passing, click here.

The action will get underway this Thursday (August 9) with nine days of racing and 13 race programs leading up to the greatest show in harness racing on August 18.

The 2018 edition of Old Home Week will feature several new events to celebrate the past and highlight the future in regional harness racing.

Sobeys will sponsor two new special Old Home Week races, kicking off on Saturday, August 11 with the Sobeys Invitational, and culminating on August 18 with the Atlantic Canada Invitational, presented by Sobeys.

Anthony and Amy MacDonald  co-founders of The Stable (thestable.ca), a fractional ownership endeavour, will be teaming for a special promotion with their Guardian Gold Cup & Saucer starter, Lincoln James.

The Stable will offer 15 shares on their Gold Cup starter. Investors can head to thestable.ca and click on the Lincoln James promotion banner to be entered to win their chance to purchase a share. Each share can be purchased for $901 dollars (CDN). The 15 investors will be drawn by Tuesday and must purchase their share prior to the official draw of the race Tuesday August 14th. Head to thestable.ca for details.

On Wednesday, August 15, Red Shores will celebrate the race and breeding career of the sensational Somebeachsomewhere. During the race card, trophies, photos and other Beach memorabilia will be on display for all race fans to enjoy, courtesy of co-owner Reg Pettipas and his wife, Louise. In addition, select race videos from Somebeachsomewheres record breaking performances will be broadcast. Post time will be at 7 p.m.

In 2018, PEI Harness Racing will recognize the history and horsepeople associated with Moncton, New Brunswick. On Thursday, August 16 from 4 to 6 p.m., a Moncton reunion will be held in the EastLink trade centre just off of the Red Shores main lobby. That will be followed by a very special event, The Monctonian Pace, sponsored by the horse owners of the Moncton area, City of Moncton, David Lund and family, Dr. M.L. Patriquin and Moncton Standardbred Racing Association.

Throughout its nearly six decades of activity  and name changes from Moncton Raceway to Brunswick Downs and then Champlain Raceway  the Moncton track was known for record setting performances and the highest special event purses in the region. All those associated with the Moncton track over the years are invited to attend the reunion, bring along any materials they may wish to share, and celebrate memories.

In recognition of the outstanding contribution to the Gold Cup and Saucer by the late Mike MacDonald, for 2018 the winning driver in the Guardian Gold Cup and Saucer will be presented with the first Michael MacDonald Memorial Trophy. A five-time winner of the Gold Cup, Mike MacDonald was an annual competitor and major ambassador in the event.

In addition to these presentations and events, this year drivers will be competing for the Francis McIsaac Memorial Trophy, which recognizes the leading driver throughout the Old Home Week programs.

For more information on race dates, post times, promotions and broadcasts, head to www.redshores.ca.

(With files from Red Shores)
By Rashid Shirinov

Tehran and Baku plan to establish the Iran-Azerbaijan Economic Development Headquarters, Secretary General of Iran's Transportation and Logistics Federation Mohammad Eygharloo told Trend on August 5.

"The decision to create the economic development headquarters was made during a recent joint chamber of commerce meeting between the representatives of the two countries, he said.

Eygharloo noted that a similar headquarters was also established between Iran and Iraq, which has led to good results.

Noting the good relations between Tehran and Baku, the secretary general said that Azerbaijan can act as a terminal to transfer Iranian goods to other countries.

Iran can also import wood from Azerbaijan, which could be very advantageous, he added.

Eygharloo also mentioned the North-South Transport Corridor, a route to link India and the middle East to the Caucasus, Central Asia and Europe.

Irans Ministry of Roads and Urban Development pays special attention to the creation of this route and aims to complete it, he said.

The International North-South Transport Corridor is planned to transport 5 million tons of cargo per year at the initial stage and over 10 million tons of cargo in the future.

The corridor is expected to bring huge benefits to the Azerbaijani budget. The route enjoys several advantages compared to other transport corridors, as it is considered to be more profitable for each parameter than other alternative routes, including reduction of the distance and delivery time two or threefold.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

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By Naila Huseynli

Five seed enterprises are planned to be built until 2020 in Azerbaijan. Two of these enterprises will be commissioned this year, and three of them the next year.

Ilham Guliyev, Deputy Minister of Agriculture made the remarks at a meeting held on the topic of Registration of plant varieties in the Republic, the current state of seed production, problems and forthcoming tasks.

The deputy minister reminded that in 2015 the State Seed Fund was established in Azerbaijan in order to provide producers with highly productive varieties of seeds and regulate activities in this direction.

During the meeting, the current state of seed production in the republic, the problems and future challenges, the development of seed production on a scientific basis, the application of innovative technologies in seed production, testing, conducted at points of varieties of plants and analysis of these results were discussed.

Guliyev said that a fund has been allocated for the vegetable seeds in accordance with the order of the President Ilham Aliyev. A large campus is laid on the base of the Institute of Vegetable-growing with this fund. Thus, the country will provide 100 percent domestic production of vegetable seeds.

Recently, the Agriculture Minister of Azerbaijan signed a protocol with Turkey in order to cooperate in the seed production. The goal of the bilateral agreement is to ensure efficiency and innovation in the agricultural sector.

In the next year Azerbaijan intends to provide itself with seeds of major grain crops. Thus, this year up to 100,000 high-quality cereal seeds are planned to be grown in Azerbaijan, whereas this figure was 80,000 in 2017.
By Trend

This year the Gabala International Music Festival marks its 10th anniversary, one of the art directors of the festival, world-famous conductor and cellist Dmitry Yablonsky told Trend Aug. 6.

During this period an incredible number of projects were implemented and concerts were held, he said.

"I remember the first festival as if it was yesterday, Yablonsky said. I am very grateful to the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, First Vice President of Azerbaijan, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva for the incredible support to the festival  it is priceless."

Talking about the program of the 10th Gabala International Music Festival, the musician stressed that the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra has been involved in the event.

"This year the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra has been involved in the festival, Yablonsky said. It is a legendary orchestra with which we have a lot of joint projects. The main thing is that together with Farhad Badalbayli and the orchestra we have implemented a project titled 'Khojaly'. Alexander Tchaikovsky will create musical composition, dedicated to the Khojaly tragedy. This project will go down in history."

The Gabala International Music Festival, which became the main event in the musical life of Azerbaijan and the region, marks its 10th anniversary this year. The festival, organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Gilan Holding, is being held from July 30 to August 7 in Azerbaijans Gabala city.

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By Trend

Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has expressed condolences to Indonesian counterpart Joko Widodo.

I was deeply saddened by the news of heavy casualties and destructions as a result of a terrible earthquake that hit your country, President Aliyev said.

On the occasion of this tragedy, on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my deepest condolences to you, families and loved ones of those who died, and all the people of Indonesia, and wish those injured the swiftest possible recovery, he added.

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By Laman Ismayilova

The weather will be dry in Baku and Absheron peninsula on August 8.

North-east wind will be replaced with south-east wind in the afternoon.

The temperature on the peninsula will be +22-25C at night, +30-35C in afternoon in Absheron peninsula, +22-24C at night, + 33-35C in the afternoon in Baku, the Ecology and Natural Resources Ministry reported.

Atmospheric pressure will be 755mm; relative humidity will be 65-75% at night, 45-55% in the afternoon.

Sea water temperature will be 26-27 degrees on Absheron beaches (Sumgayit, Novkhani, Pirshaghi, Nardaran, Bilgah, Zagulba), the sea water temperature will be 27-28 degrees in southern beaches (Turkan, Hovsan, Sahil, Shikh). North wind will blow.

Rainy weather is expected in some mountainous areas. West wind will blow. The temperature will be +20-25C at night, +34-39C in daytime, +12-17C in mountains at night, +23-28C.

Intensifying north wind on Absheron peninsula is favorable for meteo-sensitive people.

The ecologists warn that strong north-western wind is expected in Baku and Absheron peninsula on from August 9 to 11 evening.

Air temperature will gradually drop by 3-5 degrees compared to previous days.

The weather will be unstable in some regions of Azerbaijan, from August 8 to August 12 in the north and west, lightning is expected in some places. Showers and hail predicted in some places. The western wind will blow and occasionally intensify in some places. Air temperature will gradually drop by 3-5 degrees compared to previous days. It is expected that water level will increase in rivers and short-term floods expected in some mountain rivers of the Greater and Lesser Caucasus.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova

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By Kamila Aliyeva

American Halliburton, a company which provides products and services to the energy industry, and Uzbekneftegaz plan to jointly implement projects in foreign markets, Podrobno.uz reported.

Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Board of Uzbekneftegaz Alisher Sultanov and Halliburtons Eastern Hemisphere President Joe Rainey held talks in Tashkent on August 6.

Rainey noted that he closely follows changes in the economic and political spheres of Uzbekistan. At the same time, he stressed the company's long-standing intention to enter the Uzbek market, and expressed the hope that today is the best time to become part of the positive changes taking place in the country.

During the meeting, the parties discussed promising areas of cooperation, following which the agreements on several issues were reached. According to the meetings results, it was decided that Halliburton will open a permanent office in Uzbekistan. It was also agreed upon that work to determine the interaction scheme for increasing production of liquid hydrocarbons from low-yield wells will continue. In addition, a joint working group will consider the possibility of joint participation in projects in foreign markets.

At the end of the meeting, President of Halliburton stressed that they are interested not only in supplying equipment, but in establishing long-term mutually beneficial cooperation with the full presence of the company in Uzbekistan. To this end, Rainey plans to attract the best specialists of Halliburton to cooperate with Uzbekneftegaz.

Founded in 1919, Halliburton is one of the world's largest providers of products and services to the energy industry. With over 55,000 employees, representing 140 nationalities in more than 80 countries, the company helps its customers maximize value throughout the lifecycle of the reservoir  from locating hydrocarbons and managing geological data, to drilling and formation evaluation, well construction and completion, and optimizing production throughout the life of the asset.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

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By Kamila Aliyeva

The tough statement of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov addressed to the Armenian authorities can be regarded as the last warning to the regime in Yerevan.

This was stated by well-known Russian expert and TV presenter Yevgeny Mikhailov in an interview with Trend while commenting on the recent message of Moscow, voiced by the Russian official.

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov noted in his statement that the events in Armenia are contrary to the statements of the new leadership of the country on refusal of prosecution of its political predecessors.

Russia, as an ally of Yerevan, has always been interested in the stability of the Armenian state, so what is happening there cannot but worry us, in particular in terms of normal functioning in the CIS area of those organizations where Armenia participates, Lavrov stressed.

Over the past few days, we have several times brought this concern to the Armenian leadership, the minister said.

According to Lavrov, during the political crisis in Armenia in May this year Moscow noted with great satisfaction that as a result the solution to this crisis was found on the basis of a compromise with the participation of all leading parties.

We hoped that, based on this result, all political forces, first of all the new leadership of Armenia, the new authorities, will continue to promote unifying approaches, will strengthen the national accord, he said.

"But the events of recent days clearly violate such a positive attitude, run counter to the recent statements by the new leadership of Armenia that it has no intention to organize the persecution of its predecessors for political reasons, he concluded.

It should be noted that the statement of the Russian government followed immediately after the recent arrest of ex-President Robert Kocharian and the criminal prosecution of the CSTO Secretary General Yuri Khachaturov.

It is also appropriate to recall the mass discontent in Armenian society over the presence of the Russian military base in Gyumri, the mass oppression of Russian business in Armenia, and the anti-Russia hysteria of the public of that country on social networks.

The Russian expert said it is becoming obvious that Pashinyan does not fulfill the agreements and promises not to pursue political competitors.

Under the guise of fighting corruption, the Yerevan regime primarily fulfills the orders of Western sponsors to break off relations with Moscow. The result, in my opinion, will be sad. I believe Russia will revise the plans of strategic partnership in many areas, primarily in arms supplies, and may change its position on the Karabakh conflict's settlement. The time of ceremonies is over. Yerevan is showing its true face of an ally who is not able to stand by its words, and therefore is actually able to betray, he said.

The diplomatic bewilderment of Lavrov will be followed by tougher measures to comply with the agreements, according to the expert.

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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva

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By Trend

Turkmenistan is preparing for the chairmanship in the CIS in 2019, the countrys government said in a statement Aug. 7.

The chairmanship will be transferred from Tajikistan to Turkmenistan during a regular meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of State on Sept. 28 in Dushanbe.

Turkmenistan will promote the development of constructive multi-vector partnership in the CIS, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov said in a message.

Cooperation within the Commonwealth has been and remains one of the priorities of the foreign policy of Turkmenistan, the head of state said. Turkmenistan had already chaired the CIS in 2012 and held about 30 events in this regard.

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Gagan Sikand, the local Member of Parliament for Mississauga-Streetsville, recently visited the Standardbred Canada offices to present a certificate of appreciation to SC President and CEO, Dan Gall.

While in the office, Sikand also met with one of SCs 2018 summer students, Christina Gillis, who is currently attending the University of Guelph to obtain her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology.

Christina is at SC as part of the Canada Summer Jobs program, which provides funding to allow employers to create summer job opportunities for students. The program gives students the chance to gain work experience while supporting organizations, specifically those that provide important community service.



(From left to right) SC President/CEO Dan Gall, MP Gagan Sikand, Christina Gillis, SC Industry Marketing Manager Kathy Wade Vlaar, SC Industry Communications Manager / TROT Magazine Editor Darryl Kaplan

While on site, Sikand learned more about Canadian harness racing, and SC management met with him to discuss the Standardbred industry in Canada.
This study was contracted by local government and businesses. It is the first phase in a process that supporters say will lead to the creation
Hospital to hold conference following 'code black' incident

Adventist Health Bakersfield will hold an "informative symposium" from 9 a.m. to noon Aug. 13 to discuss healthcare perspectives and lessons learned from the Las Vegas Route 91 Music Festival massacre and the Bakersfield Heart Hospital shooting. The conference is free and open to the public.

Guest speakers will include Michelle Oxford, CEO of Bakersfield Heart Hospital, and Mason Van Houweling, CEO of University Medical Center of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas, which treated most of the shooting victims from the music festival.

A Q&A session will follow the presentation.

The conference will be held at Cal State Bakersfield's business development center, room 153B. For parking, use Lots F & G.
Texas' Department of Transportation is warning drivers to drive right or face the consequences.

TxDOT implored drivers Thursday to only use the left lane on a divided highway to pass "so you don't hold up traffic," the department said in a viral tweet.
Post Time with Mike and Mike, presented by BetAmerica, will continue its live remote season on Friday (August 11) with coverage of the 2018 Dan Patch Stakes, live from Hoosier Park Racing and Casino in Anderson, Indiana.

The Dan Patch will feature champion Lazarus N who has taken North American harness racing by storm since coming in from New Zealand. His last start, a qualifier at the Meadowlands Racetrack, was visually impressive, as he defeated Lather Up in 1:48.3 and paced a final quarter of :25.3. He is a winner of 35 of 45 lifetime starts and has raced at different distances throughout his career. Lazarus N is the richest Down Under Standardbred of all time, as he boasts earnings of just over $2.6 million (US). He was Pacer of the Year at age two and three and has only missed the board once in his entire career. This will be the first pari-mutuel US start for the star New Zealander.

Mike and Mike will have extensive coverage of the Dan Patch beginning at 8:30 p.m. via their website that will run for two hours. Jessica Otten, a normal correspondent for the program, will be co-hosting the live remote for the first time. Otten, a native of Michigan, has worked with Mike and Mike since the inception of their live remotes three years ago. Since joining the Post Time team, Otten has filled many roles including winners circle analyst, paddock analyst, social media coordinator, and she also writes a monthly article for the program.

Taylor Johnston will join the trio during the program. Johnston, a native of Ohio, has worked with Post Time with Mike and Mike for the last year, working at various live remotes throughout the shows schedule. Johnston will be providing winners circle and paddock reaction throughout the evening.

Post Time can be heard live at posttimewithmikeandmike.com or on the archive at betamerica.com/BARN.

(With files from Post Time)
Jean Pierre Ndossoka's children cried and begged for their lives in the minutes before he allegedly slit their throats and left them on his bed, telling his wife he'd left her a "present."

"Daddy, I'm sorry," the 8-year-old told his father, according to court records.

His 1-year-old sister just cried.

After the southwest Houston double slaying, the 61-year-old went on the run. Police found him in his car in Pasadena the next morning, still alive but bleeding from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

He was charged with two counts of capital murder - one for each child. If convicted, he could face the death penalty.

The tragedy began to unfold early Saturday, after Sabine Ntongo dropped her kids off at their father's apartment for visitation, police said.

All day, Ndossoka called his wife while she was at work. Mid-afternoon, he told her she needed to come by his apartment on Fondren.

He'd killed the children and "left her a present," he allegedly said. There'd be a key under the mat so she could come find it, he told her, according to court records.

DRIVEN OVER CLIFF: As Hart children begged for help, system failed them

The woman rushed over to Ndossoka's place and let herself in. When she found her two kids on the bed with their throats slit, she called 911.

Responding officers found a bloody knife and a hand-written note in French near the bed, telling Ntongo she would "carry the burden" of her children's souls. Ndossoka wrote that he planned to die with the kids, records show.

But, in fact, he had already fled. Police put out a vehicle description and mounted a search.

Authorities eventually picked him up in Pasadena around 1 a.m. At first he said he didn't remember what happened, according to court records.

But under questioning at the hospital, he admitted he "did something bad" and claimed to have high blood pressure. First, he allegedly said he'd choked the children. Then he admitted to using a knife and leaving a note, according to court records.

Eventually, he told investigators his children's last words.

He was arrested and charged Sunday, and does not appear to have an assigned attorney yet. He's due in court Wednesday at 1 p.m.
A night of drinking ended in an arrest and a couple of felony charges for a Texas woman early Saturday morning.

The Odessa Police Department responded to a call about 1 a.m. Saturday after a woman told a dispatcher she had stabbed her husband.
William E. Karnes, MD, a gastroenterologist with the University of California, Irvine, discusses the biggest challenges and opportunities for gastroenterologists today.

Question: What are the biggest challenges you're facing today as a gastroenterologist?

Dr. William Karnes: No. 1 is excessive redundant documentation related to EHR, endowriter software and need for quality measures documentation and submission to CMS. No. 2 is reduced compensation.

Q: How has your practice changed over the past three to five years?

WK: Spending far more time documenting and less time available for patients.

Q: Where do you see your practice evolving over the next few years? What are your biggest opportunities for growth?

WK: Documentation technology must improve. I'm hoping artificial will play a role toward the goal. There is also a trend toward less time for patient care and reduced compensation [that] has me looking at alternative careers.
Two-year-old trotting colts and geldings are set to invade Batavia Downs this Wednesday afternoon (August 8) to compete in two divisions of the New York Sire Stakes.

Both fields are very evenly matched, and appear to offer some real value betting opportunities on the card.

The NYSS dashes have been carded as Race 2 and Race 6. Post time for the first race will be at 5 p.m.

In the first $54,500 division, Chip Chip Conway (Conway Hall-Get Chipped) is the morning line favorite. He will come into the dash off of two strong outings. After having made breaks in his first two NYSS starts, trainer Gary Messenger added trotting hopples and the gelding qualified back fine. Since then he has won in a lifetime-best 1:58 at Tioga Downs, and finished second by a head to fellow starter Thunder after having been parked for the better part of the mile and still closing in :28.3. Regular driver Jim Taggart Jr. will be back in the bike once again.

Thunder (Conway Hall-Cr Oh Suzanna) had some issues of his own, as he made a bad break two races ago. However, last week at Saratoga he seems to have righted the ship, as he trotted a strong mile in 1:59.2 to gain his first lifetime and NYSS win. Scott Zeron, who drove Thunder last week, will be in the bike for trainer John Butenschoen.

JNR Express (Conway Hall-Yankee T L C) has trotted back-to-back miles in 1:57.2. He first did it at Tioga, where he finished second. Last week he chased a 1:55.4 track record performance by Gimpanzee at Saratoga and finished a respectable fifth. He has picked up the NYSS leading money-winning driver, Jim Morrill Jr., and looks to be a player again for trainer Jessica Okusko.

Captain Krupnik (Conway Hall-Salt Hill Brigid) has yet to win a race, but the colt didnt make his first lifetime start until July 9. He has continued to show improvement week to week under the tutelage of trainer/driver Ake Svanstedt, and with an inside start set for Wednesday, there is an opportunity for a big effort.

The second $54,500 division has even more variables to consider than the first; and will feature the second, third and fourth highest point-getters in the series in competition against each other.

Morning line favourite Labadee AS (Conway Hall-Smith Hall) has two consecutive open-length wins in Excelsior A action, but will move back up to the top tier for the Wednesday race, which will be the first time he has been in a NYSS event since July 9. Andy Miller is set to pick up the lines for trainer Anette Lorentzon for this outing.

Our White Knight (Crazed-Psychotherapist) has finished second in all of his four lifetime races. He got away well last week and became forwardly placed early, which helped his good closing ability to be more effective at the end of the mile. With an inside post this week, look for a similar situation with driver Scott Zeron up. John Butenschoen trains the gelding.

Horns For Three (Credit Winner-Swoosh Hanover) is somewhat of an enigma. He started the year by winning a NYSS race while free-legged before he made a break at Monticello the following week. Trainer Ed Hart added trotting hopples for the next start, but Horns For Three broke with them on as well. Horns For Three then qualified with the equipment on again at Monticello on July 24 and won by 10 lengths over a sloppy track (he then won his next start at Saratoga as well). He will come into his Wednesday assignment with the hopples on. Kevin Cummings is scheduled to drive.

Cavill Hanover (Muscle Mass-Cr Calendar Girl) went two for two in NYSS action out of the gate before running into Gimpanzee and a buzzsaw 1:55.4 mile at Saratoga. He took his 1:56.4 mark at Tioga Downs, and that is the best time of any other competitor in the race. Cavill Hanover can race either on the front or from behind, and that decision will more than likely be made by trainer/driver Ake Svanstedt behind the gate.

There are also three $15,000 divisions of the Excelsior A series on the card, and they have been carded as Races 5, 8 and 9.

(With files from Batavia Downs)
UnityPoint Health in West Des Moines, Iowa, could face a class-action lawsuit over a recent data breach that affected 1.4 million patients, according to the Wisconsin State Journal.

This would mark the second class-action lawsuit against the system since May. The first complaint involved an email phishing attack, which compromised 16,429 patients' protected health information in February. It alleged UnityPoint Health failed to notify patients in a timely matter and falsely told affected patients no Social Security numbers were compromised. The attorney who filed that suit is investigating whether the most recent breach would warrant a separate action.

The latest breach involves a separate phishing attack that compromised patients' names, addresses and medical information, as well as a limited number of driver's license, Social Security, and payment card or bank account numbers. The breach was discovered May 31, and UnityPoint notified the 1.4 million individuals July 30.

The health system told the Wisconsin State Journal that the phishing emails in the latest attack appeared to be sent from an executive within the organization, which tricked some employees into sharing their sign-in information. Hackers had access to an undisclosed number of email accounts from March 14 to April 3.

UnityPoint has reset the passwords for the compromised accounts and implemented two-factor authentication to prevent similar situations, according to health system officials. Employees have also undergone mandatory training on how to spot a phishing attack.

Editor's Note: This article was updated Aug. 7, 2018 at 1 p.m. to clarify that the second lawsuit against UnityPoint has not yet been filed. The attorney is considering whether to file a separate action at this time.
Bluetree Network, a Madison, Wis.-based Epic consulting firm, is reaping the benefits of Epic's massive healthcare presence, the Wisconsin State Journal reports.

The company, which supports and mentors healthcare organizations using Epic's EHR, is moving to a larger office to fit its growing staff.

Here are eight things to know about the consultancy, as noted by the Wisconsin State Journal:

1. Bluetree, which was founded in 2012 in a small co-working space, is moving to an office with more than 15,000 square feet.

2. The company is owned by its founders and initial investors  it was initially funded with money from friends and family as opposed to outside angel investors or venture capital funds.

3. The firm employs about 150 individuals and contracts with another 150. About half of Bluetree's total workforce are former Epic employees.

4. Bluetree also has offices in New York and Denver. In fact, only about 50 of its full-time employees are stationed in Madison.

5. By the end of 2019, the company expects to employ 450 individuals, with 300 of them full-time and 100 stationed in Madison.

6. Bluetree is also adding a managed services center to help advise healthcare organizations' technology staffs as well as its front-line employees, including physicians, nurses and registration staff.

7. Bluetree expects $55 million in revenue this year.

8. In 2017, Bluetree ranked No. 569 on the Inc. 5000 list, Inc.'s annual ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. based on annual revenue and three-year growth.
Here are seven health systems with strong operational metrics and solid financial positions, according to recent reports from Moody's Investors Service and Fitch Ratings.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Health system names were compiled from recent credit rating reports and are listed in alphabetical order.

1. Prince Frederick, Md.-based Calvert Health System has an "AA-" rating and stable outlook with Fitch. The system has a leading market share, a favorable payer mix and stable cash flow, according to Fitch.

2. Cleveland Clinic has an "Aa2" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. Cleveland Clinic has strong brand recognition, exceptional fundraising ability and healthy cash flow, according to Moody's.

3. Inova Health System has an "Aa2" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The Falls Church, Va.-based health system has consistently strong cash-flow margins, a leading market position and a good investment position, according to Moody's.

4. Philadelphia-based Main Line Health has an "Aa3" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The system has a strong market position, healthy balance sheet metrics and a light debt burden, according to Moody's.

5. Dallas-based Methodist Health System has an "Aa3" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The health system has a favorable liquidity position, consistent operating results and a growing market population, according to Moody's.

6. Omaha-based Nebraska Medicine has an "AA-" rating and stable outlook with Fitch. The system has strong operating margins and a light debt burden, according to Fitch.

7. Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (Kan.) Health System, which does business as SCL Health, has an "Aa3" rating and stable outlook with Moody's. The system has a good market position in a favorable service area, strong operating margins and limited capital spending, according to Moody's.

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While Dallas-based Tenet Healthcare significantly improved its net income performance in the second quarter, the for-profit operator struggled in some year-over-year metrics, according to its recently released earnings report.

Tenet, which oversees 68 hospitals, generated $24 million in net income for the second quarter of 2018  a significant turnaround from the $56 million lost during the same period a year ago. Its adjusted earnings before interest, taxes and amortization was $634 million in the second quarter of 2018, compared to $570 million in the second quarter of 2017.

Overall, Tenet saw a net operating revenue of $4.5 billion, down 6.2 percent from the same quarter one year prior. The operator saw a healthy spike in ambulatory segment revenue, but those gains were offset by lower revenue in its hospital business and revenue cycle management business Conifer Health Solutions.

Net operating revenues for hospital operations totaled $3.73 billion, a decrease of 8.6 percent from the second quarter of 2017. Overall, the operator saw admissions decline by 2.3 percent, a trend it attributes to drops in two markets: Chicago and Detroit. Tenet said its revenue drop was a result of its strategic hospital divestiture plan to shed its underperforming facilities in Chicago and the wind-down of its health plan.

In contrast, on a same-facility basis, the company's ambulatory segment posted revenue growth of 6.9 percent, with cases up 4.3 percent and revenue per case up 2.4 percent. Its surgical business, which represents most of the revenue in the ambulatory segment, grew 6.6 percent with cases up 3.4 percent and revenue per case increasing 3.1 percent. Overall, Tenet's ambulatory segment produced net operating revenue of $531 million during the quarter, compared with $472 million in the second quarter of 2017.

Its Conifer business posted revenues of $386 million, down from $400 million in the second quarter year-over-year.

"We are becoming a more agile and decisive organization and are pleased with our strong financial results for the third quarter in a row," said Ronald Rittenmeyer, Tenet's executive chairman and CEO. "We have demonstrated our ability to appropriately minimize costs, which will be an ongoing fundamental part of how we do business."

Based on its second-quarter performance, Tenet bumped its 2018 net income outlook from $115 million to $186 million.
Burlington, Mass.-based Lahey Health officials confirmed Aug. 6 that system President and CEO Howard Grant, MD, will retire in September, The Boston Globe reports.

Dr. Grant's retirement, effective Sept. 30, comes amid the five-hospital system's decision to merge with four other healthcare organizations, including Boston-based Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, to form a new 13-hospital system.

The proposed merger, announced last year, is awaiting final approval from the state. The Health Policy Commission  the state's healthcare watchdog agency  released a preliminary report in July noting the planned deal would increase healthcare costs by up to $191.3 million annually.

Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey also signaled she may push for limits to the deal, which if successful would create a new system larger than Boston-based Partners HealthCare, currently the state's largest healthcare organization.

When the merger was announced last year, Dr. Grant, 66, noted he planned to retire and move back to Philadelphia to be with family, the report states. If the merger is successful, Dr. Grant's role will be phased out. Beth Israel Deaconess President and CEO Kevin Tabb, MD, is slated to run the new system, Beth Israel Lahey Health.

Dr. Grant joined Lahey Health in 2010 as CEO of Burlington-based Lahey Hospital & Medical Center. He became president and CEO of the system in 2012, The Boston Globe reports.

"The eight years that I have spent at Lahey Health have been deeply rewarding both personally and professionally," Dr. Grant told the publication in a prepared statement.

Lahey Health officials revealed Richard Nesto, MD, CMO of Lahey Health, will serve as interim president and CEO of the system once Dr. Grant steps down next month.

To access the full report, click here.
In this special Speaker Series, Becker's Healthcare caught up with Esteban Gershanik, MD, the former CIO of the Louisiana Department of Health.

Dr. Gershanik will speak on a panel during the Becker's Hospital Review 4th Annual Health IT + Revenue Cycle Conference titled "Determining Where to Invest for IT in Your Organization's Strategic Plans and Goals," at 1:15 p.m. Friday, Sept. 21. Learn more about the event and register to attend in Chicago.

Question: Can you share your best advice for motivating your teams?

Dr. Esteban Gershanik: The best advice for motivating my teams has been to ensure that, in every project we take on, our approach is mission-driven, team-oriented and principled. [Everyone should have] a clear role with responsibilities that lines up with their interests. [Everyone should know they are] integral to our success as a team. Incentives and recognition, as well as support for one another, are provided along the way for such projects.

I also preach the concept of just culture, which I adopted from my work in quality and safety in healthcare delivery, [and describes] how we all are going to make mistakes  its not a matter of if but when. Since that is the case and we are a team, preaching just culture ensures clear, open, honest communication in a positive environment. [It encourages us to] focus on how we work together to ensure the process and systems that we work in are constantly improving, and [it allows us to] minimize mistakes or failures [while making] agile and fluid changes quickly.

Q: How does your organization gain physician buy-in when it is implementing a new technology or solution?

EG: To gain physician buy-in when implementing a new technology or solution, we ensure that we have a physician champion to help guide the implementation, and we open it up to feedback from those within the organization. We also provide an opportunity for physicians to bring new technologies and solutions to the table to see how they can support the organizations overall mission. Focusing on how these technologies or solutions improve patient care is key to [gaining] their buy-in, [but it is also important that] the solution is easy for providers [to use]. To have a physician champion early on to assist with the initial [rollout] is key. Once the lift is done, it can be easy sailing, and [eventually, it can be] difficult to take away the new technologies or solutions from providers.

Q: How do you promote innovation within your organization?

EG: [I] allow everyone within the organization to participate in innovation by providing the tools to allow them to leverage their expertise and insight into a problem that needs to be solved. Also, approaching subject matter experts and getting the right people together at the table to look at a problem and explore innovation to solve that problem together [inspires improvements].
Physicians have frequently prescribed a class of fentanyl drugs intended for cancer patients with high opioid tolerance to patients with back pain and migraines, which puts a new population of patients at risk for accidental opioid-related overdose and death, according to FDA records cited by The New York Times.

Here are eight things to know:

1. The class of opioids include quick-absorbing fentanyl sprays, tables and lozenges. All of these opioids contain a narcotic up to 50 times stronger than heroin and up to 100 times stronger than morphine.

2. In 2011, the FDA put together a distribution oversight program, attempting to curb inappropriate use of these medications. The FDA placed the drug companies that manufacture and sell the opioids in charge of enforcement. A handful of these companies face legal battles for promoting alternative uses for the opioids.

3. The New York Times cites about 5,000 pages of a report obtained by researchers at Baltimore-based Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health via the Freedom of Information Act that prove the FDA had data highlighting widespread off-label use of the opioids.

4. FDA officials told The New York Times they reviewed evidence showing many patients without cancer received the opioids. However, the agency had difficulty measuring the potential harm to patients due to the fragmented nature of the data, gathered from prescriber surveys, insurance claims and industry reports.

5. The documents obtained by researchers contained a 2013 survey in which 40 percent of the physicians prescribing the class of opioids reported giving the drug to patients without cancer to treat chronic pain. Forty-two percent of pharmacists indicated in the survey that the fentanyl-based drugs were appropriate for those ailments.

6. Another survey conducted in February 2017, showed fentanyl-prescribing physicians and about 48 percent of patients believed the drugs were approved by the FDA to treat noncancer illnesses.

7. To address patient access concerns, an industry group representing a specific brand of opioids, removed certain language from the mandatory patient-prescriber agreement form to make it easier for physicians to prescribe opioids to patients without an opioid tolerance in 2013. The group created a form that required physicians to indicate they understood the meaning of opioid tolerance, rather than seeing if the patient was in fact opioid tolerant. The form also did not include a clause affirming the patient receiving the opioids was already getting round-the-clock opioid care.

"It is not open for debate that the risk of these drugs among patients who lack tolerance is unacceptably high. It's quite clear-cut," said Caleb Alexander, MD, associate professor of epidemiology and co-director of the Center for Drug Safety and Effectiveness at Johns Hopkins.

8. Scott Gottlieb, commissioner of the FDA, said in an August 1 statement, "We're taking the issue of how we manage the safe use of these products to our advisory committee, to bring transparency to what we know about how well these post market safety programs are working and to get their advice on how we could strengthen these restrictions to better protect patients."

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After a series of overnight shootings that left two people dead and several others injured, Chicago-based John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital limited the number of trauma victims' families and friends entering the emergency room, NBC Chicago reports.

Two people were killed and 28 were wounded between midnight and 3 a.m. Aug. 5, according to Chicago police. Ten of these patients received treatment at Stroger.

Hospital and police officials denied reports of a potential lockdown of the hospital.

"Over the past 24 hours, Stroger's trauma unit received an unusually high volume of patients," said Caitlin Polochak, the hospital's communications manager. "At no time did Stroger go on bypass or 'lock down' its trauma unit."

"We are asking the families of trauma patients to limit visitation at this time to immediate family members only so staff may focus on patient care," Ms. Polochak said.

Sutter Health hospital remains closed amid wildfires
A Kentucky woman allegedly stole an ambulance from Mt. Vernon, Ky.-based Rockcastle Regional Hospital August 6 because she was tired of waiting for her relatives to pick her up, reports WYMT.

Hospital staff left the ambulance running near the building while they prepared to transport a different patient. Local police said 51-year-old Pamela Cash took the ambulance and drove 3 miles before witnesses saw her rummaging through cars, trying to steal a different vehicle.

"She said she got tired of waiting on her sister at the hospital and took the ambulance," Mt. Vernon Police Chief Brian Carter told WYMT. "I've been doing this for 15 years. Never had anything like that."

Mt. Vernon police charged Ms. Cash with criminal mischief and theft by unlawful taking over $10,000. She declined to speak with WYMT.

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Shuttered California hospital aims to reopen in January
Community Medical Center Long Beach (Calif.), which closed July 3 after its operator determined it wasn't financially feasible to renovate the hospital to meet California's earthquake standards, secured a new operator who will try to reopen the facility Jan. 1, according to The Signal Tribune.

The hospital is transitioning from Fountain Valley, Calif.-based MemorialCare's hands to its new medical operator  Molina, Wu, Network  which set the Jan. 1 reopening goal.

The decision to reopen the facility in January was announced at the Community Hospital Task Force Meeting July 30.

"I know that flu season is really going to impact us, and we're going to need those beds. We're going to need that ER," Community Medical's incoming CEO Virg Narbutas said during the meeting. "So, with a goal of Jan. 1  maybe we can get it sooner. Im pushing as hard as I can."

Nearly 300 employees, who were laid off when the hospital closed, signed up to return to Community Medical Center when it reopens.

Long Beach officials are reviewing the costs of reopening the facility, transferring the license of the hospital to Molina, Wu, Network and ensuring a long-term renovation to meet the states earthquake compliance requirements.
Shared electric scooters are returning to San Francisco's streets, and a team of the city's trauma specialists wants to track injuries that result from these increasingly popular transportation methods, The New York Times reports.

"I can say that several years ago that I didn't see these types of injuries happening, and now I do," said Catherine Juillard, MD, a trauma surgeon at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital. "But we have to do the hard work of looking at the data to determine if there's truly a trend."

Earlier this year, thousands of shared electric scooters landed in San Francisco as "pay-as-you-go" vehicles.

After about three months of use, the city issued cease-and-desist orders that temporarily removed scooters from the streets, but they may return as soon as the end of August, when the city issues permits to up to five scooter companies.

Bird, a major scooter company, said it was creating a safety advisory council led by a former head of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The panel will "focus on increasing the safety of people riding slow-speed electric scooters in a car-centric world," the company said.

In a meeting to assess concerns about these increasingly popular transportation methods, Dr. Juillard and her colleagues said they were also worried about possible injuries from electric bikes, mo-peds, hoverboards and Segways.

Chris Colwell, MD, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital's chief of emergency medicine, said he sees injuries from bumps and bruises to life-altering head injuries. These safety concerns emerged almost as soon as the scooters did, according to Dr. Colwell.

"I'm quite confident that we were seeing five to 10 injuries from this a week, and I'm probably underestimating that," Dr. Colwell said. "We saw one or zero a month before the increase in electric scooters."

Hard data about safety risks of these vehicles is advisable, especially as electric scooter companies reach dozens more cities across the U.S., Dr. Juillard said. Bird aims to be in 50 cities by 2019.

"When technology enters transportation, people forget that it also becomes public health," Dr. Juillard said. "It becomes something where human lives are at stake."
A nurse at Philadelphia-based Thomas Jefferson University Hospital was stabbed in the leg while trying to protect her patient, The Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Philadelphia police said the woman who stabbed the 42-year-old nurse was attempting to stab her sick father.

The 55-year-old father suffered a wound to the head from a soda can during the 7:20 p.m. attack Aug. 4. The nurse and father were stabilized.

The daughter who attacked was arrested and a weapon was seized, police said.

Police have yet to release the identity of the three individuals.
CMS' latest draft of the 2019 Physician Fee Schedule and Quality Payment Program creates ample opportunity for telehealth in Medicare.

Under the current Medicare program, only live-video conferencing telehealth services under specific circumstances that account for where the patient lives  rural or nonrural  are reimbursed.

Because a number of telehealth services only apply to patients in rural areas, CMS developed remote patient monitoring codes to provide a fixed monthly reimbursement for the remote collection and interpretation of patient data. In other words, providers may only be reimbursed once per month for analyzing data collected by their patients' devices, explains Sebastian Seiguer, the CEO of mobile health company emocha.

Moreover, Medicare frequently changes its list of approved telehealth services, some of which include emergency department consultations, outpatient visits and nutrition therapy. However, in terms of non-face-to-face asynchronous remote monitoring, CMS only reimburses care for patients with chronic illness; for other services, this type of store-and-forward telehealth is non-reimbursable  aside from beneficiaries in Alaska and Hawaii.

Under CMS' proposed revisions to the rule, the telehealth services Medicare reimburses would vastly expand. Telehealth visits would cost Medicare less  "Medicare would pay $14 per visit in the first year for these communication technology-based services, compared with $92 per visit for the corresponding established patient visits," according to the proposal  and Medicare would cover more types of telehealth.

"The proposed rule offers an entirely new framework for telehealth reimbursement," Mr. Seiguer said.

Becker's Hospital Review spoke with Mr. Seiguer, who explained the proposal and its implications.

Editor's Note: Responses have been lightly edited for brevity and clarity.

Question: How does CMS' proposed rule change expand telehealth reimbursement?

Sebastian Seiguer: Rather than focus on the specific use cases, it provides broad reimbursement for two types of communications technology: (1) live video and audio interactions when used by a physician or other health professional to assess a patient's condition and decide whether the patient needs an appointment, and (2) asynchronous, which encompasses non-live patient-recorded video or images used by a physician or other health professional to assess a patient's condition.

CMS wants to make sure that these check-ins are independent evaluations, and not related to other appointments. As such, reimbursement does not apply to a series of evaluations that are related and take place within specified time frames before and after reimbursed appointments.

Q: Why is it important that asynchronous telehealth be reimbursed?

SS: Asynchronous telehealth is critically important for several reasons, including patient and provider convenience, connectivity limitations of live-streaming video interactions and efficiency.

For example, in the U.S., every public health department is required to provide directly observed therapy to patients with tuberculosis. This requires a healthcare worker to observe patients as they take every dose of medication on a near daily basis, for six to nine months. While some jurisdictions have tried to do this using live-streaming videos, many have had tremendous difficulty and have opted to implement asynchronous video solutions instead.

Consider that a typical, large city may have 30 to 100 patients with TB at a time. For a five-day per week regimen, this would require 20 appointments per month per patient, or several thousand appointments for all their patients during a six-month period. Using asynchronous video recordings, patients take their medication at any time of day, and providers review that data the next day at their convenience. Recent National Institutes of Health-funded studies by Baltimore-based Johns Hopkins University and the state of Maryland demonstrated that an asynchronous telehealth solution can save thousands of dollars per patient.

The proposed code  GRAS1  creates flexibility using technology in many ways to support patients and deepen the connection between patients and their providers in between visits. CMS clearly states that this can be accomplished through pre-recorded still or video images. There is tremendous potential to leverage mobile health solutions to ensure that patients are adhering to treatment in ways that were never before possible due to logistical burdens and time constraints. Providers can use asynchronous video technology to check in with patients for anything from making sure a patient with asthma is using his or her inhaler properly to confirming that patients with hypertension are taking every dose as prescribed to help avoid health complications.

Q: How does the proposal affect remote patient monitoring technologies?

SS: Information from devices such as heart rate monitors or other devices will continue to be reported with existing CPT codes for remote patient monitoring. The proposed rule contained few additional CPT codes in this regard.

Q: What about other forms of patient-generated health data? Can Medicare beneficiaries submit this information as part of a virtual check-in?

SS: While data collected by patients using devices  known as remote patient monitoring  was not the focus of this rule, comment was requested for the possibility of using communication technology to improve Medication Assisted Treatment for opioid addiction. CMS proposes creating a "bundled episode of care" that incorporates communication technology for components of MAT, such as counseling, medication management and observed drug dosing.
Anje Kim, MD, a Wyoming-based neurosurgeon, is suing her former employers for allegedly violating her employment agreement, according to the Casper Star Tribune.

Here are six things to know:

1. Dr. Kim began working for Mountain View Regional Hospital in Casper, Wyo., in 2015 when the hospital purchased her previous employer. Within her employment agreement, Dr. Kim was transferred to Mountain View. Then on June 1, Casper-based Wyoming Medical Center acquired Mountain View. On the same day, WMC terminated her employment agreement, which included a non-compete provision that prevents her from practicing in many parts of Wyoming.

2. WMC CEO Michele Chuilick informed Dr. Kim of her termination by letter, stating the neurosurgeon didn't obtain or maintain clinical privileges at WMC without restriction. However, Dr. Kim's original employment agreement stated she was only required to maintain privileges at Mountain View.

3. Dr. Kim did not pursue privileges at WMC after the hospital acquired her employment agreement.

4. After termination, Dr. Kim filed a suit against Mountain View, WMC and WMC subsidiary Wyoming Health Medical Group, arguing that she maintained privileges as outlined in her employment agreement and alleging the non-compete provision in her agreement is "unenforceable" because it is anti-competitive, according to the report.

5. Within her suit, Dr. Kim seeks a restraining order as well as punitive damages.

6. Dr. Kim's agreement also stated she was to receive copies of her patients' medical records after termination, but she did not receive the patient records.
Neurosurgeon Marie Roguski, MD, joined MelroseWakefield Hospital in Melrose, Mass., Wicked Local Melrose details.

Here are three things to know:

1. Dr. Roguski performs spinal, cranial and peripheral nerve surgical procedures. Her clinical interests include brain and spine tumors.

2. Dr. Roguski received her medical degree from New York City-based Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. She underwent neurosurgical oncology fellowship training at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.

3. She also earned a master's degree in public health from Boston-based Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. She has presented nationally on neurological diseases and brain tumors.
Kenwell Engineering on site at the new Greggs store in Omagh

Bakery chain Greggs is preparing to open its 16th Northern Ireland in just over two years, with plans to add more outlets by the end of 2018.

The latest shop is currently being built in the Showgrounds Retail Park in Omagh, in a move expected to bring with it 1m of investment to the busy shopping zone in the Co Tyrone market town.

The unit was given full planning permission last year, but Greggs' involvement has just been confirmed.

The original report from the applicants, CCP IV Omagh, suggested that between 20 and 25 jobs could be created.

A spokesperson for Greggs said: "We can confirm we are interested in bringing Greggs to Omagh and we will clarify shop location and opening date as soon as possible."

However, Co Tyrone engineering firm Kenwells, which is carrying out the construction of the unit, confirmed Greggs will be the tenants.

Greggs plc has also submitted a planning application to erect shop signage at the same location.

It will bring to 16, the number of Greggs outlets in Northern Ireland since it opened its first company-managed shop in the Boucher Retail Car Park in south Belfast.

In 2015, the Belfast Telegraph revealed the company's plan to open up to 50 shops here.

Yesterday a spokesperson for the company said it is seeking more sites around the province.

"We are continuing to look for further opportunities to open more shops in Northern Ireland this year and will share additional information as soon as we are in a position to do so," the spokesperson said.

Greggs initially focused its attentions on Belfast, opening seven stores in as many months.

But in the past 18 months, the food company has spread across Northern Ireland at a rapid pace, adding stores in Ballymena, Bangor, Newry, Lisburn, Coleraine, Larne and Portadown.

It added an eighth Belfast store in June, opening on Botanic Avenue, but now Greggs has cast its eye westward, with its first outlet in Co Tyrone.

The current construction project for the Omagh store will see three car parking spaces sacrificed. However the plan provides for the construction of 17 new spaces as compensation.

It will leave the Showgrounds Retail Park, which was sold for 27m in 2015, with 368 parking spaces.

Meanwhile, the latest financial results released by Greggs last week has attracted the interest of investors.

Total sales for the 26 weeks ending June 30 were up 5.2% to 476m, representing like-for-like sales growth of 1.5%.

Underlying operating profits, excluding profits from the sale of property and a 1.9m restructuring charge, came in at 25.7m, down from 27.6m the year before.

Greggs increased its ordinary interim dividend by 3.9% to 10.7p per share.

Following the announcement, Greggs' share price shot up by 7.5% or 72.5p to 1,034p.

Greggs said it had delivered good growth in its newer product categories such as hot drinks, breakfasts and healthier ranges.

However, it remains cautious about its outlook, given the difficulties faced by both high street retailers and restaurant groups.
Even as a child, Michael Nugent knew he wanted to follow in his father's footsteps and make and sell ice cream.

Despite his dream, he went to Queen's University in Belfast to study civil engineering.

However, after a year working for a leading international infrastructure group, he walked away from it all to start up Nugelato.

The company manufactures and sells ice cream and gelato at its premises in Newcastle and Newry, as well as at a recently opened franchise in Bangor.

It was a massive leap of faith, but Michael is so passionate about his product that he believes it could become a global brand.

"I honestly believe we offer the best ice cream experience you will get anywhere on the planet," said 34-year-old Michael.

"It deserves to be everywhere, I don't think it would look out of place on Fifth Avenue in New York."

Michael first became interested in making ice cream by helping his father in the family-run business, The Strand, also located in Newcastle.

"By the time I was in my teens I was making the majority of the ice cream," he said.

"I picked up the science. It's very interesting, once you understand the recipes and how they work, you can start inventing new flavours and trying out new things.

"I actually have a degree in civil engineering and I worked in England for a year with Balfour Beattie on some major roads projects.

"I have always been inspired by travel and after a year of working for Balfour Beattie I decided to leave and book a round the world ticket.

"People thought I was mad, it was the largest construction company in the UK at the time, they really looked after me and I was well paid, but I always harboured an ambition to start up my own business making ice cream."

Given his background working for the family business, Michael is aware of the number of coffee shops and other eateries that serve ice cream, so he was determined to create a unique brand, unlike anything else in Northern Ireland.

To this end, he has turned to his extensive travel to inspire him in building the Nugelato brand.

He has installed a specialist hot chocolate tap in his flagship shop in Newcastle, something he saw while travelling in Italy.

"I was blown away by it. I didn't have Nugelato at that stage but I wanted it," said Michael.

There is also specialist machinery in the Nugelato shops that allows customers to watch the vanilla ice cream being made in front of them.

"You have to have a unique selling point," he said.

"I think it's important to be different, we are always trying to keep ahead and do something different.

"The whole experience of coming to Nugelato is different from anywhere else, it's not like any other ice cream shop you go into.

"With regards to production of the ice cream, we have invested very heavily in the best possible equipment to make the best quality product that we can make.

"We've also concentrated a lot on the customer experience and ensuring we have a unique concept.

"We have a machine that makes the ice cream in the store so it isn't possible to get any fresher ice cream anywhere.

"Of course, the machine requires a lot of work, it's not like Jimmy Joe could buy one and create the same kind of experience as we do - you have to have the knowledge that we have."

Michael first opened a juice bar in Newcastle in 2011 before finally opening his first ice cream boutique in 2015.

"I spent a summer in California and when I was out there, there were a lot of juice bars and I loved the idea, I loved the concept, the freshness, the healthiness. I loved everything about it," he said.

"I still wanted to make ice cream but it is a lot more expensive to get started and that's why I opened Sucos first.

"It was a great experience, it was definitely tough, there were a lot of hard lessons, but I learned a lot of things very quickly.

"One of the most important things I learned during the experience is the importance of branding.

"I really believe that if you have a good product, a good consistent brand and you can offer the customer a good experience, then those are the three core ingredients you need to succeed in business."

He added: "In our case, when we started out everyone asked what we were going to do during winter.

"They said we would have to sell teas and tray bakes, but I didn't want to do that, I wanted to sell ice cream.

"I would say that it's really important when you are setting up your own business that you know what you want to do and stay true to that.

"We are good at making ice cream and gelato and that's what we do and actually the winter isn't a problem for us.

"We realised very quickly that we would have the tourists and visitors to the town come into the shop during the day and then the local people would come in during the evening.

"Businesses in Newcastle get queues on special days, like when there is a Red Arrows display, but we get queues out the door at 3pm on a Monday afternoon or 6pm on a Wednesday."

The success of the Nugelato in Newcastle meant that Michael was able to begin expanding.

The obvious choice was Newry and he opened a shop there in 2016.

He said: "We had people coming from Newry asking when we were going to open there, they were even talking about starting up a petition.

"I have always wanted to have a chain so opening up there was something I really wanted to do."

As the business has grown, Nugelato has gone from selling just over one tonne of ice cream a week when it first opened, to making six tonnes a week.

As a result, Michael was forced to invest in more equipment before he was able to continue with his expansion plans.

However, just a matter of weeks ago, a Nugelato franchise opened in Bangor.

Equally, the firm has gone from employing five people when it was first set up, to 70 people across the three shops.

Michael remains committed to building the business.

"With my engineering background, I decided to do a Masters in marketing to help me along and that really changed my way of thinking," he said.

"I learned that some people are better at things than I am and delegation is important.

"There's no point in me trying to do something if someone else can do it better, I have to trust them to do it.

"I have three shops now and that has been a really important lesson because I can't be in three places at once.

"I'm going to keep working to build the business.

"We are looking at moving into the Republic of Ireland, but I'm not going to stop there," he added.

"I see no reason why we can't go global, although we might need help from someone to get us there, but it is possible - just watch this space."
Jason Statham doesnt believe hell be the next James Bond (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

Jason Statham has ruled himself out of the running to be the next James Bond.

The actor is currently starring in The Meg, a film in which he plays a rescue diver tasked with saving a submarine crew trapped at the bottom of the ocean with a giant prehistoric shark.

At the films premiere in Los Angeles on Monday, the British actor was asked if he would be interested in playing Bond if Daniel Craig decides to step down after his fifth outing as the revered spy.

But Statham, best known for starring in action films such as Crank, Transporter and The Mechanic, threw cold water on the idea.

He said: No-one is coming to me for that job.

Statham, 51, was joined on the red carpet by his fiancee, the British model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, 31. The pair have a one-year-old son, Jack, and Statham joked about sneaking him into see The Meg, which is rated 12A in the UK.

He said: When hes big enough well have to sneak him in under my jacket.

Expand Close Li Bingbing stars alongside Jason Statham in The Meg and was full of praise for the actor (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Li Bingbing stars alongside Jason Statham in The Meg and was full of praise for the actor (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

When questioned what fans can expect from The Meg  a film named after the giant extinct shark the megalodon  Statham said: You are going to love people getting eaten. And people like us not getting eaten.

Chinese actress Li Bingbing, who has appeared in the Resident Evil and Transformers franchises, stars alongside Statham as his ex-wife and the films heroine.

She was full of praise for the actor. She said: Hes such a nice guy, hes so sweet and so handsome, so hot and hes so supportive during the shooting. Hes so considerate.

Expand Close Ruby Rose appears in the monster blockbuster (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Ruby Rose appears in the monster blockbuster (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

Of her own character in the movie, Li, 45, said: My character, I really love the personality. So independent, so strong, so tough and so bold.

Director Jon Turteltaub  who made Cool Runnings  said audiences can expect action and laughs from the film, which also stars Orange Is The New Black actress Ruby Rose.

He added: Its a big, old-fashioned Hollywood monster movie with amazing characters, a lot of humour and all I care about as a director is people have fun.

Forget feeling sorry for yourself and learning about life, youre going to have fun.

The Meg is set to be released on August 10 in the UK.
A 26-year-old man has been arrested following the discovery of 50 cannabis plants in Co Antrim.

The drugs were found following a drug seizure at a house in Townhead Street, Ballymoney on Tuesday.

Police searched the property after recieving intelligence provided by the local community.

Around 50 cannabis plants, and a further quantity of cannabis were seized along with various other drug-related paraphernalia.

The 26-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of possession and cultivating cannabis, as well as being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs, and is currently in police custody assisting with police enquiries.

Tackling the illegal supply and use of drugs is a priority for police and seizures such as this demonstrate our ongoing commitment to tackling the scourge of drugs in our society," Inspector Colin Shaw said.

"I would encourage anyone who has any information about the use or supply of illegal drugs to contact police on the non-emergency number 101 with any information they have.

"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.
Funding of 700,000 recovered from the proceeds of crime, including cars and property, is being made available to groups across Northern Ireland

Funding of 700,000 recovered from the proceeds of crime, including cars and property, is being made available to groups across Northern Ireland.

The Department of Justice is inviting public sector bodies, voluntary and community sector organisations to bid for a share of the fund, which is made available from recovered criminal assets to help in crime prevention or help reduce the fear of crime in the community.

The 2018/2019 Assets Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS) will mean that a total of 5m of criminal assets will have been distributed to the community since the scheme began in 2012.

The initiative allows cash received from the payment of confiscation orders to be invested into projects tackling crime in communities here.

Organisations applying for funding must clearly demonstrate how they will directly benefit victims, communities or the environment.

Department of Justice permanent secretary Nick Perry is encouraging eligible groups to consider how, working together, they can best use this year's money.

"The support available in ARCS is the result of successful prosecution and convictions of criminals," he said.

"Those who disregard the law, cheat and rob victims have no place in our society.

"Law enforcement agencies are continually improving their efforts to identify and confiscate profits and assets gained through illegal activity such as drug dealing, benefit and tax fraud and money laundering; these are criminal profits that might contribute to further harm in communities if no action was taken."

Twelve young people from across Greater Belfast and Lisburn are among those who have benefited directly from the scheme.

The teenagers, aged between 13 and 17, recently completed a motorbike awareness project, an initiative championed by the MCE Ulster Grand Prix to encourage the safe use of off-road motorbikes.

Supported by the PSNI, the 12-week cross-community educational pilot scheme was the first of its kind here. It took place at David Wood House in the MCE Ulster Grand Prix paddock at Dundrod and was delivered by Cornerstone Off-Road Motorcycle Academy.

Learning included a combination of classroom and practical workshop sessions that taught the group bike safety and riding skills.

The participants have all received certification in emergency first aid at work, a Motor Cycle Union of Ireland marshal certificate along with basic maintenance and riding skills.

The idea behind the scheme was to help reduce the ongoing anti-social problem of the illegal, damaging and potentially dangerous use of scramblers on open ground by educating the young people in motorbike safety.

Application forms are available from the Department of Justice website and the closing date for applications is September 3.
Police at the scene of the serious assault in Waring Street

An incident in the centre of Belfast during which a cyclist was knocked off his bicycle and assaulted is "part on an ongoing situation", a court was told.

Two men appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court on a charge of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent to another man on August 6, 2018.

Robert Davey (22) and Martin Francis James Begley (28) both spoke to confirm to the court clerk that they understood the charge levelled against them, and a police officer told the court he believed he could connect both men to the charge.

The officer was then asked several questions by Davey's solictor Tim McCrudden, and confirmed that at this stage there was "no statement from the injured party" and "no medical evidence about his injuries."

The constable was also asked a series of questions about the injured party by barrister Martin Morgan, who is representing Begley and who is instructed by HHD Solicitors.

The officer confirmed he was currently in police custody, and when asked by Mr Morgan if the injured party was "being interviewed as a suspect in other matters", the officer replied: "I believe so."

Bail applications were then launched for both accused, and while police objected to Davey's release, they took no issue with Begley getting bail.

Begley, of Rosehead in north Belfast, had several condition imposed - including staying out of the city centre, signing with police twice a week, and having no contact with either the injured party or his co-accused Davey.

Bail for Davey, of no fixed abode, was objected to, with the police officer saying "first and foremost there is no confirmed address for him." The constable also expressed concerns over interference with the injured party, telling the court: "Police are of the opinion they are known to each other ... and this is part of an ongoing situation."

The policeman told District Judge Fiona Bagnall bench warrants have been issued in the past for Davey, who is currently on probation and under a suspended sentence.

Mrs Bagnall granted Begley bail, and said Davey will also be released on bail, when a suitable address is secured, with the Judge warning Davey's solicitor "if he breaches, he will be straight back in again." The terms of Davey's bail, when perfected, will be the same as Begley's.

The case will be listed at the same court next month.
A North Belfast man who verbally abused a nurse at the Mater Hospital was yesterday handed a six-month sentence, suspended for two years

A North Belfast man who verbally abused a nurse at the Mater Hospital was yesterday handed a six-month sentence, suspended for two years.

Daniel John Waller was told by the judge that Northern Ireland's courts took a "zero tolerance" approach to the public abusing hospital staff.

Waller (28), of Upper Crumlin Road, pleaded guilty at Belfast Magistrates Court to a single charge of disorderly behaviour.

A prosecution lawyer told the court that on December 6 last year police arrested Millar and took him to Musgrave Street police station for questioning about an unrelated matter.

He was later taken to the Mater Hospital for treatment to a hand injury and during this treatment had to be restrained.District Judge Philip Mateer was told that Waller - who has 44 offences on his criminal record - became abusive towards staff, calling one nurse a "fat, specky c***", and continued to act in an abusive way.

At 3am the following day he was arrested for disorderly behaviour and in reply to the charge he said: "I didn't do f*** all at the hospital."

Defence solicitor Billy McNulty told the court that following the incident Waller apologised to the nurse he had verbally abused. "He said sorry to her afterwards," the solicitor said.

He told the court that in March this year Waller had overdosed on tablets and was taken to the Mater Hospital where he was put in an "induced coma" and remained on a life support machine for 10 days.

Waller was subsequently transferred to the Royal Victoria Hospital where it was discovered he had suffered a stroke and had paralysis down his left arm and left leg. Mr McNulty said: "It was a life-changing moment for him. He is now a chastened man."

The defence solicitor said Waller now appreciated the work that the hospital staff had done for him since his overdose.

District Judge Mateer said that Waller was currently the subject of a four-month suspended sentence for other matters.

He said the custody threshold had been met but Waller would received a lesser sentence because of his guilty plea. District Judge Mateer told Waller: "If you commit any further offences in the next two years, you are going straight into custody for 10 months. There is absolutely no doubt about that."
Patrick Crumlish has been found safe and well following a police appeal.

Patrick Crumlish went missing after being last seen at the Translink Foyle Street Deport on Friday afternoon with police believing he may have used public transport to travel to Londonderry.

But police announced on Friday afternoon that he had been found.
DUP councillors in Ian Paisley's North Antrim constituency have rallied to a call from a Ballymoney colleague to throw their support behind their beleaguered MP.

While councillor John Finlay has remained silent over a letter sent to DUP representatives encouraging them to rally around Mr Paisley at a meeting in Ballymena on August 13, representatives on the ground have welcomed the show of support.

The party has declined to say whether anyone attending would risk sanctions.

One Mid and East Antrim Borough DUP councillor, Sam Hanna, said those who think they can unseat Mr Paisley are "buck eejits".

"We're 100% behind him, so others shouldn't bother wasting their money trying to challenge him," he said.

Mr Paisley was suspended from the House of Commons for 30 days after failing to declare two luxury family holidays paid for by the Sri Lankan government.

He has also been suspended from the DUP pending an investigation by party officers and is currently listed as an Independent MP.

If 10% of voters in his constituency - 7,547 people - sign a petition to recall Mr Paisley, the seat will be declared vacant and a poll held.

The petition period will run from tomorrow until September 19.

Backing his MP, one long-standing councillor in the Paisley heartland of Ballymena, Tommy Nicholl, said: "I have always been a DUP man and always been a Paisley man. I was in Sandy Row Orange Hall the night the party was formed.

"I've been around the DUP a long, long time and Ian Paisley will always have my support."

His comments were typical of those who responded, although most did not directly state if they would attend.

In the letter, seen by the Belfast Telegraph, Mr Finlay said he had been following the "media frenzy" around the House of Commons Standards Committee judgment against Mr Paisley "with great sadness".

He said: "Many see this as their opportunity to oust Northern Ireland's most gifted voice in Parliament on Brexit.

"They also see it as an opportunity to rid themselves finally of Paisley's voice in defence of the Union and on the biblical moral issues such as same-sex marriage and abortion."

Mr Finlay said that this is why a few of Mr Paisley's friends had decided to call a meeting with him - "to show our support and hear from him first-hand how we tackle the future". He added: "Let us show the world that the friends of Ian Paisley still stand behind the man they believe in, good times and bad."

The DUP has been asked if any party members attending Mr Finlay's meeting on August 13 will face sanction but it has yet to respond.

The Electoral Office says there will be three places in the constituency where eligible voters can sign the recall petition - the Joey Dunlop Leisure Centre in Ballymoney; the Seven Towers Leisure Centre in Ballymena, and Sheskburn House Recreation Centre in Ballycastle.

Yesterday Sinn Fein registered its objections to the use of just three centres with limited opening hours.

Commenting after meeting with the Electoral Office today, North Antrim MLA Philip McGuigan said more must be done to ensure the democratic process is not subverted.

"This is simply not good enough," he said.

"It greatly reduces people's ability to reject the disgraceful behaviour of Ian Paisley in accepting lavish family holidays from the Sri Lankan government before lobbying against a UN investigation into war crimes and human rights abuses.

"North Antrim is a large constituency and Sinn Fein proposed that the recall petition should be available in as many as 10 local government offices in the constituency.

"We urged the Electoral Office to rethink this decision and to provide more centres and more flexible opening times to ensure that the democratic process is not subverted."

Will you attend the meeting? ...how the DUP councillors in Ian Paisleys constituency responded

Frank Campbell

Not aware of any letter from Cllr Finlay so cant comment any further

Beth Adger

Im 100% behind Ian and thats all Im going to say.

Beth Clyde

I will go along and see what will be said. There were very few details of what will be discussed in the letter. I wont know whats going to be said until I attend. It will be good to get information.

John Carson

Absolutely no comment to make.

Ian Stevenson

Ian Paisley has my full support. He is highly regarded within the North Antrim DUP Association and by the electorate, particularly for his hard work on behalf of his constituency. Regarding any meeting or any other internal DUP business, I wish to make no comment on this.

Reuben Glover

I have had no word of any meeting and Ill be away on holidays over August 13.

Billy Henry

Yes, I am aware of the letter and it would be my intention to attend any meeting. I feel I have to be present to listen to the facts from the horses mouth.

Mark Fielding

No response

Michelle Knight-McQuillan

Not aware of any meeting.

Alan McLean

No response

Audrey Wales

I did receive the letter but unfortunately I will be away on the day the meeting is scheduled. But I dont need special arrangements to meet with my local MP. I can meet Mr Paisley anytime.

William McCaughey

Ive been on holiday so youre breaking news to me that I havent heard, but I would certainly support Ian Paisley as one of his councillors.

Tommy Nicholl

I have always been a DUP man and always been a Paisley man. I was in Sandy Row Orange Hall the night the party was formed. Ive been around the DUP a long long time and Ian Paisley will always have my support.

Sam Hanna

Ian Paisley is getting all the support he needs. Im not aware of any meeting but were 100% behind him. Others shouldnt bother wasting their money challenging him, he has all the support and will walk any election if it comes to that. Theyre buck eejits if they think otherwise.
A former MLA who donated her kidney to her son says she is disappointed that we are once again "lagging behind" when it comes to changing the law on organ donation.

Jo-Anne Dobson was reacting to news that Northern Ireland will soon be the only part of the UK without an opt-out organ donation system.

The decision by the UK Government to introduce legislation in England by 2020 follows similar decisions already taken in Scotland and Wales.

The plan shifts the balance of presumption in favour of organ donation, with an opt-out for those who don't wish to take part.

The changes will be known as Max's Law after Max Johnson, a 10-year-old boy whose life was saved by a heart transplant.

The Department of Health has confirmed that approval of similar measures here will be a matter for a future minister.

In March Ms Dobson selflessly donated one of her own organs to her son Mark (25) after the young man endured months of dialysis.

Two years earlier she brought forward a Private Member's Bill proposing that everyone would be on the organ donation register unless they opted out - but this was rejected by Stormont's health committee.

The ex-Ulster Unionist MLA says that the changes must also be replicated in Northern Ireland.

"I am overjoyed by this news from England for those people waiting on an organ donation as it will provide real hope for them," said Ms Dobson.

"My thoughts are with those who joined me on this journey, many of whom are sadly no longer with us, and for whom the opt-out system delivered that all important lifesaving hope for the future.

"However, it's also tinged with sadness as once again we will be left lagging behind and that's very unfortunate.

"Unfortunately, we did have an opportunity previously to be the second devolved region after Wales to bring this in but that opportunity was wasted. While this is a devolved matter, I do believe that it is only a matter of time before it does become law here even though we will be the last part of the UK to enforce it."

Mark had a previous transplant in 2009, and on August 1 last year that kidney was removed.

Mark then began three gruelling four-hour sessions of dialysis every week at Daisy Hill Hospital as the pair went through a long series of demanding medical tests to ensure that his mum's kidney would be a perfect match.

"It's emotional to be talking about all of this now one year on from Mark beginning his dialysis. We know what it's like and it remains very fresh in both of our minds," Ms Dobson added.

The Department of Health said yesterday: "In 2016, a new statutory requirement for the Department of Health was introduced to promote organ donation as a means of increasing the number of organs available for transplantation.

"Earlier this year, the department consulted publicly on proposals for this, focusing on effective promotion and communication to improve people's understanding of the benefits of organ donation, and encouraging positive behaviours such as joining the organ donor register and discussing wishes with loved ones.

"Final proposals will be put to an incoming minister for approval.

"In addition, following detailed consideration of the issue, the health committee declined to support a Private Member's Bill designed to legislate for a soft opt-out system of organ donation in Northern Ireland."
Former SDLP councillor Brian Duffin was convicted and sentenced at Antrim Courthouse today for sexually assaulting a teenager in her own home.

A former SDLP councillor convicted of sexually assaulting a teenager in her own home was jailed for four months.

At Antrim Magistrates Court, District Judge Nigel Broderick told an emotional looking 73-year-old Brian Duffin that despite his good character and references, given the age and vulnerability of the injured party, I consider the custody threshold has been crossed.

Although the judge imposed a four month jail sentence, following an application from defence counsel Chris Sherard he freed Duffin on 500 bail pending an appeal of both the sentence and conviction.

Following a short contest at an earlier hearing last month, the judge convicted Duffin, a father and grandfather from the Cargin Road in Toomebridge, of sexually assaulting his 17-year-old victim on 16 June 2016.

The court heard then how the pensioner, who resigned his position with the SDLP on Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council after he was initially charged, stuck his tongue into the mouth of the teenage girl, had one hand on her breast and the other on her inner thigh during the sexual assault.

During the four hour hearing, an hour long Achieving Best Evidence video interview the police held with the victim was played to the court where the teenager recounted how Duffin sat down right beside her on the sofa, even though there were other places to sit.

I thought I could trust him and talk to him, she told the interviewing Detective but then described how, when she began to her upset talking about her ill grandfather, Duffin put his arm around her and asked her for a kiss.

He said everythings going to be ok and then he asked give me a kiss so I went to give him a kiss on the cheek and he grabbed my head and put it towards his....he was coming forward and I couldnt get my head back, she told the detective.

He kept coming at me and I couldnt get back and then he stuck his tongue down my throat - I just froze, I panicked, she continued, demonstrating how Duffin had one hand in her breast and the other in her upper, inner thigh.

Estimating the attack last about ten seconds, she said Duffins tongue was all around my mouth and when she managed to get up off the sofa, neither she nor Duffin said anything but he took his wallet out and took out 40 which he put on the table and walked out.

Calling a friend and two relatives while she was in hysterics, she told the court when she told her mum what happened, she just kept repeating dirty dirty b******.

Under cross examination from Mr Sherard, the teenager denied suggestions that she had misinterpreted what happened.

The lawyer put to her that what had actually taken place was a bear hug and that she was over reacting.

She denied that however, telling the lawyer that the way Duffin kissed her was like a snog - Im not over reacting.

Giving evidence to the court on his own behalf Duffin, a father of 11 and grandfather to 19 kids, denied any wrong doing on his part, claiming he doesnt have the foggiest idea why the victim had made allegations against him.

He claimed he had gone to the house to see the girls mother but the teenager appeared a bit mopey so he put his arm around her to comfort her.

Mr Sherard asked the now disgraced former councillor a series of questions : did you rub her, grab her breast, feel her leg, did you grope her?

To each and every one, Duffin simply said no.

Did you touch her breast, Mr Sherard asked and was told emphatically: absolutely not. As a councillor I have a code of conduct that I have to operate under.

During cross examination from prosecution Briege Gilmore, she put to Duffin if his councillors code of conduct would not preclude you from going to the house of a 17-year-old girl in her night dress and sitting beside her on the sofa.

Convicting Duffin, Judge Broderick said allegations of sexual assault where it was one persons word against another were the most difficult cases to resolve, telling the pervert that he may not agree with my decision but thats for another day.

In court today, Mr Sherard highlighted that having been involved in politics since 1968, Duffins conviction was a significant stain on otherwise excellent character and had left the pensioner emotionally distraught and personally devastated.

Handing up numerous references including from his parish priest Fr McWilliams which cited Duffins honesty, reliability and generosity, Mr Sherard recounted how in his political career the former councillor had set up Moneyglass Community Centre and Maghera Round Table and had raised money for Habitat for Humanity.

He also handed to the judge a letter from the director of TIDAL in Toome and from the sisters of two young boys, one of whom he saved from drowning in Lough Beg.

While acknowledging his previous good character and references, Judge Broderick said there were numerous aggravating factors involved in Duffins offence including that it was of a sexual nature, involved a minor who was vulnerable young girl of 17 and that she had to come to court and give evidence against the pervert pensioner.

In addition to the jail sentence, the judge imposed a five year Sexual Offences Prevention Order, the terms of which include having no contact with anyone under 17 without approval from a risk manager, not to stay overnight at an address without approval, not to frequent facilities for children's education or play or loiter at same without approval from a designated risk manager.

Duffin must also sign the police sex offenders register for seven register for seven years.
Former SDLP councillor Brian Duffin was convicted and sentenced at Antrim Courthouse today for sexually assaulting a teenager in her own home.

Former SDLP councillor Brian Duffin has refused to resign his council seat despite being convicted of sexually assaulting a teenage girl.

The 73-year-old Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough councillor was sentenced to four months in prison at Antrim Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

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Duffin, who denies assaulting the 17-year-old girl, told the BBC he would not be resigning his seat.

After he was handed the prison sentence, Duffin was granted 500 bail pending the appeal of his sentence and conviction.

Following a short contest at an earlier hearing last month, the judge convicted Duffin, a father and grandfather from the Cargin Road in Toomebridge, of sexually assaulting his 17-year-old victim on 16 June 2016.

The court heard then how the pensioner, who resigned his position with the SDLP on Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council after he was initially charged, stuck his tongue into the mouth of the teenage girl, had one hand on her breast and the other on her inner thigh during the sexual assault.

In addition to the jail sentence, the judge imposed a five year Sexual Offences Prevention Order, the terms of which include having no contact with anyone under 17 without approval from a risk manager, not to stay overnight at an address without approval, not to frequent facilities for children's education or play or loiter at same without approval from a designated risk manager.

Duffin must also sign the police sex offenders register for seven register for seven years.

A spokeswoman for Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council said that it was "currently taking advice on the matter" of Mr Duffin's status.
Police have appealed for information after 40 sheep were stolen.

Police have issued an appeal for information after forty sheep were stolen from a field in Rathfriland, Co Down.

A total of 21 ewes, one ram and 18 lambs were taken from the field on the Bannfield Road sometime between June 24 to 27.

"If you have any information regarding the theft of the sheep, or their whereabouts, please call 101 quoting reference 521 of 6/8/18," a PSNI spokesperson said.

"Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."
Gerry Adams is set to publish a cookery book, with recipes that will reveal the "best-kept secrets of the Irish peace process".

Appearing at the Feile an Phobail festival in west Belfast on Monday night, the former Sinn Fein president said the recipes would be based on cooking that sustained republicans through many years of negotiations.

The Irish Times reports the publication is to be called 'The Negotiators' Cook Book' and will be printed by Sinn Fein.

Not 2 Long 2 Christmas. A Wee Taste Of A Great Stocking Filler From Ted & Padraic agus Mise. pic.twitter.com/XmtEYAk76c  Gerry Adams (@GerryAdamsSF) August 6, 2018

The British never fed us. They never had any food. But as intrepid republicans and being blessed by one or two great cooks these are the recipes that sustained the Irish negotiating team," he said.

It contains some of the best-kept secrets of the Irish peace process.

In conversation with journalist Jude Collins, Mr Adams also discussed his approach to writing and the book of short stories he will be releasing next year.

Mr Adams' literary output has included a mix of autobiographical and historical writings.
An image of the man police wish to speak with / Credit: PSNI

Police have released an image of a man they wish to speak to in relation to an attack which left a taxi driver with a broken jaw.

The incident happened in Belfast City Centre in May of this year.

On May 7, an unprovoked assault was carried out on a male taxi driver at around 3.30am by an unknown male as he stood beside his taxi in the High Street area.

His attacker then got into the taxi and attempted to drive off in it.

He was unable to start the car, and fled the scene on foot in the direction of Royal Avenue, leaving the taxi driver requiring surgery.

Detective Inspector McDonnell said: "This was a completely unprovoked and cowardly attack on a man who was simply out earning his living. We have been carrying out various enquiries since the incident and by releasing this image today [Tuesday] we hope to progress our enquiries further.

"I would ask anyone with any information about this incident or who can assist us to identify the individual pictured to contact detectives at Musgrave on 101 quoting reference number 261 07/05/18.

"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.
Councillor James Brown MBE has passed away. Credit: Mid and East Antrim Council.

A Mid and East Antrim councillor who served for nearly four decades has passed away following an illness.

James 'Jim' Brown MBE was a well known political stalwart in the Carrick area. It is understood he was in his late 60's at the time of his death.

Prior to his death he was serving as an Independent councillor for the Carrick Castle ward and had been involved in local politics for nearly 40 years.

Mr Brown had previously served as a member of the UUP on the old Carrickfergus Borough Council before leaving the party in the mid 1990's.

He twice served as Mayor of Carrickfergus Borough Council during 34 years on the council.

Mr Brown was elected to the new Mid and East Antrim Council in 2014.

Alliance Party East Antrim MLA Stewart Dickson attended Carrickfergus Technical School with Mr Brown and served on the council with him for many years.

"I joined the council four years before him in 1977, we both went to school together for a while at Carrickfergus Technical School," Mr Dickson said.

"We did not always see eye to eye politically but I can honestly say he had the interests of the Town of Carrickfergus at heart.

"He had been ill for some time my sympathy goes to his wife Esther and his family."

Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Council DUP councillor Cheryl Johnston said her thoughts were with Mr Brown's family.

"I've known Jimmy for a number of years and it's extremely sad. My thoughts are with his entire family circle at this time.

"He'll be missed by us all."

TUV councillor Timothy Gaston said that Mr Brown was a "faithful servant".

"My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family circle at this sad time," he said.

DUP councillor Billy Ashe served on both councils with Mr Brown for many years and said that Mr Brown had initially encouraged him to get involved in politics, though he ended up eventually choosing the DUP over the UUP.

"My thoughts are with his wife, daughters and grandchildren," Councillor Ashe said.
A dissident republican parade planned for Saturday is to go ahead after its organisers gave assurances that a man cleared over involvement in the murder of a prison officer would not be participating in the march.

The Parades Commission said yesterday that its position on the anti-internment procession in Belfast city centre remained unchanged, amid calls for the march to be banned.

The outcry stemmed from media reports that Damien McLaughlin was to have a leading role in the march.

McLaughlin had been accused of providing a car that was used in the murder of David Black, who was gunned down on his way to work in Maghaberry Prison in 2012.

However, the case against him collapsed in June and McLaughlin - who has a previous conviction for possession of firearms - walked from the court a free man.

His mooted appearance at the upcoming dissident parade came as he was recently presented with a trophy by fellow dissidents in celebration of his acquittal.

The prospect of McLaughlin's involvement angered unionists and Kyle Black, the grieving son of the murdered prison officer, who backed calls for the Parades Commission to review its original determination.

The body can review its original decision if it receives any "fresh information or representations" which it did not previously consider or take into account. It may then amend, revoke or uphold its earlier decision.

Addressing this upcoming dissident parade, the Commission said an organiser had contacted it directly to deny that McLaughlin - who had attended the event in 2016 - would be in attendance.

"The Commission is aware of recent media reports about a specific individual 'leading the parade'," it said.

"(We have) received confirmation from the organiser that the individual concerned has not been invited to participate in the parade in any way."

The body added that the issue had also not impacted on it's original determination, although it stressed that restrictions remained in place.

"The Commission has determined that the parade may, under certain conditions, process its notified route from Writer's Square along Royal Avenue to Donegall Square North.

"It is restricted to 500 participants, must adhere strictly to its notified timings of 1.15pm to dispersal at 2pm, and must comply with conditions regarding conduct."

The commission said its decision "reflects the desirability of maintaining the city centre as a civic space accessible to all, including those who wish to express diverse and controversial views".

The news has "bitterly disappointed" the DUP's Gavin Robinson, who revealed he had raised concerns with the Commission that dissident marchers will be allowed to pass the spot where two UDR soldiers were murdered, without any restrictions imposed. James Cummings and Frederick Starrett, both 22, were killed by an IRA bomb while setting up a vehicle checkpoint at Royal Avenue in Belfast in February 1988.

"No one has ever been convicted for the murder of these two men, who are still commemorated every year by the Ballymacarrett District LOL," the East Belfast MP said.

"For the families and those who knew them the pain is still raw, but to have such a parade passing the spot where they were murdered exacerbates this greatly."

He accused participants in previous anti-internment parades of breaching restrictions by chanting IRA slogans - actions which he claimed had not resulted in any adverse consequences for organisers.

"Once again, we see the Parades Commission rewarding those who have breached previous determinations, yet the organisers of peaceful parades which have always sought to abide by restrictions continue to be punished by this quango," added Mr Robinson.

"The Commission's actions are bitterly disappointing, but unfortunately, they are not surprising."
Around 480 new homes are set to be built in Belfast.

Nearly 500 new homes will be built in Belfast over the next year according to the latest investment plans from the Housing Executive.

They plan to build around 480 new homes throughout the city in partnership with housing associations.

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The Housing Executive met with Belfast City Council on Tuesday to outline its plans for next year and to report on progress from the previous year.

The organisation have said they will spend 51.7m in the Belfast City Council area, on planned and response maintenance to its homes.

This will include external maintenance work to 4,600 homes, heating installation in 2,226 homes and double glazing in 752 homes.

They will also invest over 22.2m for housing support services.

The Housing Executive gave a presentation on its Housing Investment Plan (HIP) to local Councillors.

Some 82.3m was channelled into services to help the most vulnerable, which included 9.5m on homelessness and 72.8m through the Supporting People Programme.

In addition, there was a planned maintenance programme, with work undertaken at 23,093 homes; a direct investment of 118.4m to these homes.

Homeowners and private landlords also received support, with 13.97m spent through grants and over 18.8m in tackling fuel poverty.

Speaking at the Presentation, the Housing Executives Regional Manager for Belfast, Jennifer Hawthorne said; Our Belfast teams provide a high quality, dedicated housing service to the area.

Working alongside our Customer Services Unit, Accounts and Housing Benefit teams, we provide our tenants and the wider community with an effective and efficient service.

We are committed to investing in the Belfast area, to improve the lives of people in our community.

My thanks are extended to the Councillors and Officers of Belfast City Council for their support for the Housing Executive - we look forward to continuing to work with them on matters of mutual interest, over the coming year.
A west Belfast man charged with allegedly plotting the activities of a violent dissident republican terror group has been granted bail to go on holiday with his wife.

Carl Reilly (42), of Pollard Street, is currently awaiting trial on charges of directing the activities of a terrorist organisation and professing to belong to a proscribed organisation, namely the IRA.

The offences were alleged to have been committed on dates between January 1, 2014 and October 17, 2015 at the Carrickdale Hotel in Co Louth.

A prosecution lawyer told Belfast Crown Court yesterday that Reilly had a "record with a relevant conviction" and had been on bail for a considerable period of time on the charges.

He told Judge Neil Rafferty QC that the case allegedly revolved around an audio recording made at the Carrickdale Hotel between Reilly and his co-accused, Paul Philip Crawford.

Crawford (43), of Carrickree Mews, Warrenpoint, Co Down, is awaiting trial on a charge of belonging to the IRA.

The prosecutor added: "The Crown case is that the audio shows that this defendant is a high ranking member of the IRA.

"He was talking about incidents that are in the past and about matters of future planning. This was a structured meeting."

The lawyer told the court that Reilly's bail application was to go on holiday next month for three days to Benidorm.

But he said that the prosecution and police did not know whether the trip was "with a group of friends or with family".

"If it is a group of friends, then police would like to know who they are. There is a very real risk, police say, of reoffending and re-engaging."

The lawyer told the court that in February this year Reilly was tracked by police to the Applegreen service station on the M1 motorway where he met up with a number of people known to police.

The court heard that although Reilly is allowed a phone, it is not allowed to access the internet.

Asked by Judge Rafferty if it was a "boys' trip or a family trip" Reilly wanted to go on, the prosecutor said they had not been made aware of who Reilly was travelling with.

Defence barrister Dessie Hutton informed the court: "It is not a boys' trip. It is a trip with his wife to Benidorm for a period of three days."

He said that the dates chosen had now been changed because of the cost and that the defendant and his wife now wanted to travel two days earlier.

Mr Hutton said the couple had not booked any flights until the court had made a decision on the bail application.

The lawyer explained to the court that as Reilly had surrendered his passport, he would need his passport details to make an online holiday application.

Following discussions between the defence and the Crown, Judge Rafferty agreed to the application to allow Reilly to travel to Spain next month with his wife for a period of three days.

However, the judge added that the application was granted subject to a number of stringent conditions.

Reilly must inform police of the details of his flights; he must give details of the hotel or address where he is staying; he must provide the information about who is travelling with him, and he must surrender his passport within 24 hours of returning to Northern Ireland.

In a separate application, Judge Rafferty refused to vary Reilly's current bail conditions after the prosecution stated they were "proportionate and proper" given the seriousness of the charges he faced.
Police at the scene of the serious assault in Waring Street

Two men have been charged in connection with the assault of a cyclist in Belfast city centre.

The incident happened on Waring Street, near to the junction with Victoria Street, at around 2.30pm on Monday.

Two men, aged 22 and 28, have been charged with attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.

Both men are due to appear before Belfast Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

As is normal procedure all charges will be reviewed by the PPS.
The widow of a fireman who was killed on duty battling a blaze at a hotel in Co Londonderry has said that an apology from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) "doesn't mean anything".

Joe McCloskey, from Dungiven, fell when the roof of an outbuilding at the Gorteen Hotel in Limavady collapsed on Halloween night 2003.

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The father-of-five was rescued from the building but died in Altnagelvin Hospital with his wife Marie at his side.

Mrs McCloskey has said that she received a letter from Northern Ireland's Chief Fire Officer offering a full apology to the family for Mr McCloskey's death.

"The letter to me personally doesn't mean anything," she told the BBC.

"I know for the sake of the children and my grandchildren it will, but it's sad that we have had to fight for 15 years to find out what happened to Joe."

"I don't see any respect for Joe in anything the fire service has done."

The family launched a campaign to be told the name of the officer who order Joe onto the hotel roof. But while admitting negligence, fire chiefs consistently refused to confirm the identity of the man who gave the order.

The family was finally told the name of the officer in 2014 following an Attorney General investigation.

However nobody was ever disciplined over Mr McCloskey's death, despite fire service and police investigations.

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"I never want to hear Joe's name in the same sentence as the fire service, because they have shown no respect," Mrs McCloskey said.

"All we wanted to know after we got their statements and the inquest, we asked who gave the order and we're still asking to this day, the final piece of the jigsaw puzzle, but we want the fire service actually to come out and answer.

"Joe was the rock and foundation of this home, it has deprived me of, Joe used to laugh and say our golden years, there's things we had planned to do which we'll never do.

"I'm lost without him."

The NIFRS has confirmed it contacted Mrs McCloskey in May.

It told the BBC it offered "an unreserved apology, for failings following the death of leading firefighter Joe McCloskey who tragically lost his life in the line of duty at an incident at the Gorteen House Hotel in Limavady in 2003".
Gerry Adams provided a heavenly voice at a play celebrating 30 years of the West Belfast Festival (Brian Lawless/PA)

Gerry Adams was the most recognisable person to provide a heavenly voice at a play celebrating 30 years of the West Belfast Festival, the director said.

The owner of one of Northern Irelands best-known intonations was enlisted to provide a voiceover in a piece about the history of the community event.

A Station Once Again evokes memories of past summers through the sounds of community radios Triple FM/Feile FM.

Expand Close Actors Jo Donnelly and Martin Maguire during a performance of Tony Devlins play, A Station Once Again (Liam McBurney) PA Wire/PA Images / Facebook

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The former Sinn Fein presidents heavenly voice invites some to jump the queue from limbo to heaven, director Tony Devlin said.

He added: We were trying to think, who could we get from West Belfast who people knew?

We shot for the moon and got to the stars.

The piece is set in limbo and features two characters from West Belfast who were highly involved in the festival at the beginning and were given the chance to skip to the top of the waiting list for heaven.

The celestial intervention was necessary to allow them to do a Triple FM community radio broadcast for the 30th anniversary of the festival, Mr Devlin added.

A STATION ONCE AGAIN!

August 2nd-12th

Roddy McCorley Club, Glen Road

A Feile 30th anniversary play remembering the legendary radio station that was Triple FM. Tickets available from the Roddy McCorley club or phone 90300480

LIMITED TICKETS REMAINING!!! pic.twitter.com/k1npYfegzN  Feile an Phobail (@FeileBelfast) July 27, 2018

The play, by the Brassneck Theatre Company, featured two main protagonists, Fra and Bridie, who really wanted to get to paradise.

It began set in 1988, a time of intense unrest.

Mr Devlin said the festival, which was deliberately scheduled for August, was a chance to get away from the bonfires and riots of the time and was about promoting a more positive image of the community.

Feile evolved into what organisers describe as Europes biggest community festival and has expanded to also include unionist voices and create cross-community ties.

It hosts an all-unionist discussion later this week  A Warm House For Unionists?
Former Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams has promised to disclose details of the peace process in a new book. Brian Lawless/PA.

Former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams is to publish a negotiators cook book on his experiences during the peace process.

The ex-party president said it would include some of the best-kept secrets of the talks, which produced the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.

Mr Adams addressed the West Belfast Festival on Monday evening.

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The Irish Times reported the book, to be printed before Christmas, was to be called The Negotiators Cook Book.

Mr Adams said: The British never fed us. They never had any food.

But as intrepid republicans and being blessed by one or two great cooks these are the recipes that sustained the Irish negotiating team.

It contains some of the best-kept secrets of the Irish peace process.
The first ever dig to uncover a World War One training trench in Ireland is underway. Handout/Ray Hayden/PA.

The first ever bid to excavate a First World War training trench in the Republic of Ireland is under way.

Volunteers combed the site of the former Birr Barracks which housed staff and, briefly, servicemen from the Leinster Regiment in Crinkill, in Co Offaly in the Irish midlands.

The Sixth Battalion spend a period there some time after the outbreak of hostilities in 1914 in preparation for combat in Gallipoli.

The buildings were destroyed during the Irish Civil War around the time of independence in 1922.

In the 1950s the walls were carted away for stonework, and all that remains is the perimeter wall and some bastions.

Stephen Callaghan, a local historian and student, helped organise the research.

He said: We are hoping that this dig will give us an insight as to how training trenches in Ireland were used to help train Kitcheners new army for the First World War.

With this dig we are hoping to find anything that will give us an insight as to who made the trenches, when might they date from, and how they were used.

So an example of that might be, if we are getting shell cases in the bottom of them it might be an indication that they are doing live fire or even just using blanks and practising musketry in them to basically get ready for life on the Western Front.

Expand Close The first ever dig for First World War training trenches at the former Birr barracks in Co Offaly/ Handout/Ray Hayden/PA. / Facebook

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Around 210,000 Irishmen fought for the British forces during the First World War, many motivated by fighting for the freedom of small nations like Belgium.

The Regiment raised seven Battalions and was awarded 32 Battle Honours, four Victoria Crosses, losing 1,980 men during the course of the war.

The Leinsters were disbanded in 1922 once the Irish Free State was established following the Irish War of Independence (1919-1922) and all five British Regiments recruiting from the Irish Free State were disbanded.

Mr Callaghan said the dig was facilitated by the Irish Archaeological Field School as part of community outreach efforts.

Brian Kennedy from Birr Historical Society said 100 men from Birr died during the conflict and 6,000 enlisted at the former barracks.

To be able to see where they trained before they went out into the battlefields of Flanders and Normandy and so on is absolutely huge for us.

He added: To be able to actually see them and the dimensions of the trenches and how deep they went down and so onto see that they still exist 100 years on, that is huge from our point of view as historians.
The scarecrow Pope and popemobile at the Durrow Scarecrow Festival in Co Laois

A giant scarecrow version of the Pope has won joint-first prize in a Co Laois festival.

The massive model of Pope Francis in his popemobile was created by a group of men in Durrow for the annual Durrow Scarecrow Festival.

Chairwoman of the Durrow Development Forum, Evelyn Clancy, said there had been a huge amount of interest from across Ireland.

The festival is known for its topical depictions, from Donald Trump to King Kong.

Ms Clancy added: "People expect it, King Kong was higher than a two-storey house, people have that expectation from this group of men."

The talented and creative group behind the creation includes engineers and carpenters who have put long hours into their scarecrow.

Chairman of the Conahy Vintage Club, Michael Bergin, said they enjoyed the camaraderie.

The Pope will visit Dublin on August 25 and 26.
Britain will remain a tier one military power with the ability to deploy forces around the world, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has said.

Speaking on a visit to Washington where he was holding talks with US defence secretary general James Mattis, Mr Williamson said the UK would continue to be reliable partners for the long term.

His comments came after Theresa May caused consternation earlier this year when she refused to state explicitly that the UK would remain a tier one power amid reports of clashes with Mr Williamson over future defence spending levels.

.@GavinWilliamson takes stage and says that we seek to adapt and harness change and work together to seize opportunities that bring change, and that we should not get nervous about Brexit.



Brexit will allow the UK to reach new horizons.#StrongerWithAllies pic.twitter.com/3yenOdd616  Atlantic Council (@AtlanticCouncil) August 7, 2018

Addressing the Atlantic Council think tank, Mr Williamson said: Britain is a major global actor. We have always been a tier one military power and we always will be a tier one military power.

He pointed to the UKs independent nuclear deterrent, world class special forces and cyber capabilities, and exceptional conventional forces able to deploy indpendently around the globe.

Mr Williamson also used his address to empahsise the continuing importance of Nato to the US after Donald Trump berated allies for failing to contribute more to the costs of their collective defence at last months alliance summit in Brussels.

The Defence Secretary pointed out that the only time Natos Article 5  which commits members to come to the defence of an ally which is attacked  had been invoked was after the 9/11 terror attacks on the Twin Towers in 2001.

.@GavinWilliamson says that NATO registered its biggest defense spending increase in 25 years. The summit was successful despite the drama around it.



He adds that some "mistakenly" believe that America can alone develop cutting-edge technology. "That will never be the case."  Atlantic Council (@AtlanticCouncil) August 7, 2018

He said years of pressure by the US and the UK to persuade other allies that they needed to spend more on defence were now paying off, with eight member states set to meet the target of spending 2% of their GDP on defence.

Alongside the US, the UK has been pressing for the alliance to do more, to pay its way. We are now seeing the results. Last year saw Natos biggest spending increase in 25 years, he said.

Since making the investment pledge at the 2014 Wales summit, allies have spent 87 billion dollars more on defence. In just two years time that number will increase to at least 150 billion dollars.

Increasingly we are seeing more partners pull their weight realising that they have got to spend more because of the increasing threat that the world faces.
Beers and ales at the Camra Great British Beer Festival (Dominic Lipinski/PA)

A strong beer called Broken Dream Breakfast Stout has won a prestigious award after being described as dangerously drinkable.

The Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) named the drink as its Champion Beer of Britain.

It is brewed near Reading in Berkshire by Siren Brewery, which was founded five years ago by Darron Anley.

Broken Dream. Champion Beer of Britain. pic.twitter.com/zDKylxVk6r  Siren Craft Brew (@SirenCraftBrew) August 7, 2018

Speaking at Camras Great British Beer Festival in Londons Olympia, he revealed that the 6.5% strength beer had some interesting ingredients, including coffee, oats and milk  hence the breakfast part of its name.

Around 2.7 million pints are brewed every year, with 20% exported to 14 countries.

Its very brave of Camra to give the top award to a stout on one of the hottest days of the year, Mr Anley said.

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Judges praised the beers deep and complex blend of chocolate, coffee and a touch of smoke.

They commented that it stood out for its superb aroma, taste and finish.

Nick Boley, Camras national director said: This is a distinctive, strong, well-balanced stout from an outstanding craft brewery. If there is any beer in the world that is dangerously drinkable, its this one.

Congratulations to @SirenCraftBrew who are the new Supreme Champions! #GBBF pic.twitter.com/4gW1HmB9N6  The Great British Beer Festival at Your Local (@gbbf) August 7, 2018

Green Jack brewery based in Suffolk took second place for its barley wine Ripper (8.5% ABV), described as dangerously smooth, with well-hopped flavours.

It was named the Champion Winter Beer of Britain earlier this year.

Tim Dunford, from Green Jack Brewery, said: We really love our strong beers and used to travel to Belgium all the time when we first got into the industry. I fell in love with the style and we have gone on from there.

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Bronze was taken by Tyne & Wear-based Mordue for their Workie Ticket (4.5% ABV), Judges said it was a complex and tasty bitter.

Garry Fawson, from Mordue Brewery, said: As a bitter, Workie Ticket isnt the most fashionable of beers with everything moving towards being pale, hoppy or cloudy, so were especially pleased that it has made such a comeback.
The Queen holds her nose after a pony relieved himself

The Queen inspects Balaclava Company, 5 Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland at the gates at Balmoral

The Queen started her summer break at Balmoral in the Scottish Highlands with an inspection of a guard of honour.

But while the soldiers of 5 Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland were on their best behaviour, one member of the welcoming committee committed something of a faux pas.

The regimental mascot - Shetland Pony Mascot Cruachan IV - decided to relieve himself in front of the monarch.

It prompted the Queen - wearing a sky blue ensemble - to hold her nose at the ensuing whiff.

The Queen had greeted the cheeky pony by saying "here we are again" - a reference to how he had tried to eat her posy of flowers last year.

The Queen is staying at Balmoral Castle now that it is closed to the public. She had been residing earlier at Craigowan Lodge, a smaller cottage on the estate.
Maximum jail sentences for the worst animal abusers in England are to be increased from six months to five years.

The move comes after strong support from animal welfare groups and the public to proposals for tougher sentences from Environment Secretary Michael Gove.

Separate measures will also ensure that the principle of animal sentience is enshrined in domestic law following Britains departure from the EU.

Expand Close Michael Gove announced plans for longer sentences for animal abusers during a visit to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in London last year (Philip Toscano/PA) PA Archive/PA Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Michael Gove announced plans for longer sentences for animal abusers during a visit to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in London last year (Philip Toscano/PA)

Proposals for tougher punishments for animal abusers followed a number of cases in which courts said they would have handed down longer sentences if they were available, said Mr Goves Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

These include a case last year in which a man trained dogs to torture other animals, including by trapping a fox and a terrier dog in a cage together.

The change was welcomed by Claire Horton, chief executive of the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, which has campaigned for tougher sentencing.

Following campaigning for longer animal cruelty sentences, we're delighted that today the Government has announced that the maximum sentence will be extended from 6 months to 5 years. https://t.co/jqdeE3Q0n8 pic.twitter.com/NY0xsumVhm  Battersea (@Battersea_) August 7, 2018

Battersea welcomes the results of todays consultation as they confirm the nation is no longer prepared to put up with a six-month sentence for shocking cases of cruelty to animals, said Ms Horton.

We believe a five-year maximum sentence is far more appropriate and, to the credit of the Government, they have listened. We look forward to seeing the Bill laid before Parliament this year.

The draft Animal Welfare (Sentencing and Recognition of Sentience) Bill was put out to consultation in December.

Measures relating to sentencing are now expected to be brought before Parliament later this year, in order to allow courts to take on their new powers as soon as possible.

Defra said it would continue to work with animal welfare groups on the issue of sentience, to ensure it is reflected in legislation following Brexit.

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Animal Welfare Minister Lord Gardiner said: This Government is making good on our commitment to make the UK a world leader in the care and protection of animals as we leave the EU.

Our proposals to raise maximum sentences for animal abusers attracted strong support. We will now legislate so courts have the power to punish offenders properly.

We will also continue to work with welfare organisations to ensure that animal sentience is properly recognised in our legislation once we have left the EU.

Welcome move from @DefraGovUK to bring forward legislation on tougher sentences for animal cruelty - we also need legislative recognition of animal sentience post #Brexit & a requirement for all Gov't depts to consider #animalwelfare in their policies https://t.co/bqnTfBzPXT https://t.co/90X5DhgWtE  Wildlife and Countryside Link (@WCL_News) August 7, 2018

Widespread concerns were raised during debate on the EU Withdrawal Bill last year that Brexit might weaken protections for animals, after an amendment requiring the UK to recognise them as sentient was rejected.

However, Mr Gove insisted at the time that this was a misconception, and that Britain would remain a world leader in the protection of animals following withdrawal.
Manhattan Beach Chamber president to resign to take on new role in Redondo Beach
The European Unions foreign policy chief encouraged companies to do more business with Iran despite new US sanctions.

Federica Mogherini told reporters during her trip to Wellington, New Zealand, that it is up to Europeans to decide who they want to trade with.

We are doing our best to keep Iran in the deal, to keep Iran benefiting from the economic benefits that the agreement brings to the people of Iran because we believe this is in the security interests of not only our region, but also of the world, she said.

If there is one piece of international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation that is delivering, it has to be maintained.

The United States reimposed stiff economic sanctions on Iran on Monday, ratcheting up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after President Donald Trump pulled the US out of the international accord limiting Irans nuclear activities.

A pleasure to welcome @FedericaMog to #NZ today, reaffirming our strong relationship with the #EU as likeminded partners. Full PR here: https://t.co/maIvCaIRAP pic.twitter.com/AJPc154xHS  Winston Peters (@winstonpeters) August 7, 2018

Mr Trump declared that the landmark 2015 agreement was horrible, leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East. Mr Trump warned that those who dont wind down their economic ties to Iran risk severe consequences.

German car and truck maker Daimler AG said it was suspending its very limited activities in Iran.

In early 2016 the company announced plans for local truck production and co-operation with an Iranian partner but those plans had not panned out in a weak market.

A representative office will not be continued, the company said.

Iran accused the US of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by the Obama administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest.

European allies said they deeply regret the US action.

Mr Trump said: We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilising behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

Ms Mogherini, speaking at a news conference alongside New Zealand foreign minister Winston Peters, said the EU and New Zealand saw the need to maintain the nuclear deal with Iran, notwithstanding the US withdrawal, and that she and Mr Peters had discussed in detail how to keep open trade and financial channels with Iran.

We are encouraging small and medium enterprises in particular to increase business with and in Iran as part of something (that) for us is a security priority, Ms Mogherini said, explaining that trade is an integral part of the nuclear deal.

Trade between Iran and the EU is a fundamental aspect of the Iranian right to have an economic advantage in exchange for what they have done so far, which is being compliant with all their nuclear-related commitments, she said.
Tetsuo Yukioka, managing director of Tokyo Medical University, has apologised for the shcool (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

A Tokyo medical school has apologised after an internal investigation confirmed it systematically altered entrance exam scores to limit the number of female students.

Tokyo Medical University manipulated all entrance exam results starting in 2000 or even earlier, according to findings released by lawyers involved in the investigation.

The school said the manipulation should not have occurred and would not in the future, and it will consider retroactively admitting those who otherwise would have passed the exams.

We sincerely apologise for the serious wrongdoing involving entrance exams that has caused concern and trouble for many people and betrayed the public's trustTetsuo Yukioka, Tokyo Medical University

The manipulation was revealed during an investigation of the alleged wrongful admission of a bureaucrats son in exchange for favourable treatment for the school in a ministry project. The bureaucrat and the former head of the school have been charged with bribery.

The investigation found that last year the school reduced all applicants first-stage test scores by 20% and then added up to 20 points for male applicants, and that similar manipulations had taken place for years.

It said the school wanted fewer female doctors because it anticipated they would shorten or halt their careers after becoming mothers.

We sincerely apologise for the serious wrongdoing involving entrance exams that has caused concern and trouble for many people and betrayed the publics trust, school managing director Tetsuo Yukioka said.

He denied any previous knowledge of the score manipulation and said he was never involved.

Expand Close Internal investigation committee members hold a press conference on an investigation on fraud into its admissions process of Tokyo Medical University (Eugene Hoshiko/AP) AP/PA Images / Facebook

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I suspect that there was a lack of sensitivity to the rules of modern society, in which women should not be treated differently because of their gender, he said.

Mr Yukioka said women were not treated differently once they were accepted, but acknowledged that some people even believed women were not allowed to become surgeons.

Nearly 50% of Japanese women are college educated  one of the worlds highest levels  but they often face discrimination in the workforce.

Women also are considered responsible for homemaking, childrearing and elderly care, while men are expected to work long hours and outside care services are limited.
The level of anti-social behaviour in Northern Ireland is shocking, according to the latest statistics. In the last year there were more than 61,200 such incidents and the number is rising.

Anti-social behaviour is a catch-all term including excessive noise, vandalism, drunkenness and potentially threatening behaviour.

Those subjected to such behaviour can feel isolated, helpless and in despair.

Who can they turn to? What remedy can they seek? Are they just leaving themselves open to more distressing incidents, or perhaps even an escalation of bad behaviour?

One method that was hailed as a way to combat anti-social behaviour when introduced by Tony Blair's Labour government has proved to be ineffective. Anti-social behaviour orders (Asbos) were brought in to ensure communities didn't have to live with unacceptable levels of fear and intimidation.

However, in the year 2015/16 only two Asbos were handed out here, leading the NI Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders (Niacro) to dismiss it as an ineffective way of curbing anti-social behaviour. Like so many issues, identifying the problem is simple, finding a solution is much more difficult. In an ideal world, people would be more considerate of their neighbours and local community and would refrain from yob behaviour. In the case of young offenders, parents would assume responsibility and curb their actions.

But such idealism unfortunately does not exist universally. There needs to be intervention by professionals. The earlier that intervention happens the more positive results ensue. A recent consultation by the Department of Justice, which is now closed, noted actions which were taken in other parts of the UK.

Scotland has one commonsense approach to problem of people causing annoyance to neighbours through excessive noise. If they refuse to reduce the noise when asked to do so by police, they are deemed to have caused an offence.

Other alternatives include Criminal Behaviour Orders which aim to tackle the underlying causes of anti-social behaviour, and Public Space Protection Orders which place restrictions on people using a particular space.

Another fast response action comes from Closure Orders which allow police or local authorities to close premises used to cause disorder or nuisance. Certainly, we need to find new ways of stamping out anti-social behaviour.
Ian Paisley isn't the type of politician to go quietly into the night whatever the scandal or crisis facing him.

Within hours of petition of recall letters arriving in households across North Antrim yesterday, he tweeted two photographs of himself on motorbikes.

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The first was at the launch party for Ireland's first indoor electric motocross track in Moira. That was followed by a picture of Paisley on a classic Norton at the Ulster Grand Prix vintage ride out.

It was a typical bold, brash move from the North Antrim MP which will draw dramatically different responses from critics and fans. One person's cheek is another's chutzpah.

But what the photos seem to suggest is that the eating of humble pie approach in Paisley's House of Commons speech last month is over. It's business as usual from now on for the son of the DUP founder.

The rally being organised next week by Causeway Coast and Glens councillor John Finlay in support of the MP is another sign of the fightback.

Finlay is a Paisley man through and through and very much on the party's fundamentalist wing. In June he accused Arlene Foster of "flouting the Lord's Day" due to her presence at the Ulster GAA Final - so he's not scared to make his voice heard.

Other DUP councillors also threw their weight behind the MP when contacted by the Belfast Telegraph yesterday, although some wouldn't comment on whether they'd attend the rally, and others said they'd be away.

There was silence from DUP headquarters on whether party representatives attending the meeting would face sanction, but it is highly unlikely they would.

Given the strength of the Paisley brand in North Antrim, any councillors punished would surely fancy their chances as independents in next year's local government elections.

The big question will be whether local DUP MLAs Meryvn Storey and Paul Frew attend the rally, or if they'll find themselves with other engagements that night.

With a petition of recall viewed by most political observers as likely to succeed, next Monday's event is effectively Paisley rallying the troops around him for an autumn election.

If he has a strong team on the ground, he doesn't need voices of support from the DUP leadership. In North Antrim the Paisley name carries a lot more weight than that of Foster or Dodds.

The DUP top brass believe, with justification, that Paisley's Sri Lankan holiday scandal has harmed the party with its base outside of his home turf.

But given the MP's popularity in the constituency, he's still in the driving seat for now.
070818TAX AVOIDERS WARNED

New Dawn FM News

Bougainville Import tax on Cigarette and Beer remains but many companies are still avoiding tax to the Internal Revenue Commission.

New Dawn FM managed to talk to the Chief Bougainville Tax Collector, GABRIEL PANGTEI who told us that his office is still building capacity to fully implement its task of collecting tax from Bougainvilles Business houses.

He appealed to the Business Houses to make it their duty to voluntarily pay their due to their government.

MR. PANGTEI said they know Business houses who import taxable items like Beer and cigarette from LAE, Port Moresby and Rabaul but continue to avoid paying taxes to their government.

He said that it was up to the Business houses to make sure they comply with rules and regulations of doing business in Bougainville.



Ends


Police collect evidence from the site of a bomb explosion in Burdwan, West Bengal, Oct. 3, 2014.

A top operative of a Bangladeshi militant group and suspected mastermind of an explosion at the Buddhist holy site of Bodh Gaya earlier this year has been arrested in southern India, the National Investigation Agency said Tuesday.

An NIA team arrested Mohammed Jahidul Islam, 38, in Ramanagara, near Bengaluru city in the southern state of Karnataka, and recovered electronic devices as well as traces of explosives during a search of his house, an NIA press release said.

A Bangladesh national, Islam was sentenced to life in prison in 2009 for his part in an attack on a police station, but escaped after Jamaat-ul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) militants fired on a prison van and snatched its occupants in a dramatic daylight operation in Mymensingh, in central Bangladesh, in 2014.

An explosives expert who has four aliases  Kausar, Munna, Mizan and Boma Mizan  Islam vanished and became a top JMB operative in India, authorities said.

"He is the mastermind in the Bodh Gaya case. On his directions Mustafizur Rehman alias Shahin, who is his close associate, had arranged and assembled all the explosives for the incident," the NIA statement said.

A low intensity bomb went off near the Kalachakra grounds in Bodh Gaya on Jan. 19, minutes after the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, completed a workshop there. Police recovered 110 pounds of ammonium nitrate, electronic devices, gloves and militant literature.

Authorities said they could not confirm whether the bombs were intended to target the Dalai Lama. No casualties were reported.

Suspected JMB members arrested in connection with the blast reportedly confessed that it was meant to retaliate against atrocities committed against Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar. More than 1 million Rohingya refugees who fled Myanmar live in southeastern Bangladesh.

Islam was also wanted for the October 2014 Burdwan blast in West Bengal and in many cases in Bangladesh, the NIA said. In the accidental blast in West Bengal state, two alleged JMB members were killed while assembling explosives in a house used as a hideout.

Islam was produced Tuesday before the Special Court for NIA cases in Bengaluru, which granted officers five days to transfer him to a similar court in Patna, in eastern India. Patna is the capital of Bihar state, where Bodh Gaya is located.

A spokesman for Dhaka Metropolitan Police, Masudur Rahman, said Indian authorities told them about the arrest.

"He is one of the most wanted accused. After arresting him, India has informally contacted Bangladesh about him," he said.

Bangladesh shares a large part of its 2,545-mile border with India in West Bengal and Assam states in eastern India.

A faction of the JMB is blamed for a terrorist siege that killed 29 people, including 20 hostages and five gunmen, at an upscale cafe in Dhaka in July 2016. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack.
Former Prime Minister Najib Razak talks to a member of the Malaysian parliament, July 16, 2018.

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak will face new charges in court Wednesday under the nations anti-money laundering act, in a case tied to allegations that he and his associates embezzled billions of dollars from a state investment fund, officials said.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) made the announcement on Tuesday hours after inviting Najib for another round of questioning.

Najib, 65, was arrested last month and pleaded not guilty to abuse of power and three counts of criminal breach of trust.

MACC said Najib will be charged under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 when he appears at the Kuala Lumpur High Court on Wednesday. It did not elaborate.

The charges were related to accusations that 42 million ringgit (about U.S. $10.3 million) was illegally diverted into Najibs personal bank accounts from SRC International, an energy company that used to be a subsidiary of the state fund 1MDB.

Najib, who was accompanied by his lawyers, spent 45 minutes inside the MACC headquarters in Kuala Lumpur before leaving without speaking to reporters.

If found guilty, Najib could face up to 20 years in prison for each of the original four counts. He is free on a 1-million ringgit ($250,000) bail and the court has ordered him to surrender his passports. Najib has described the allegations as part of the new governments political vengeance.

Equanimity docks

Meanwhile, government investigators boarded the $250 million (1.3 billion ringgit) yacht Equanimity after it docked around 12:40 p.m. at the Boustead Cruise Center terminal in Pelabuhan Klang. Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho (better known as Jho Low) allegedly bought the yacht using funds stolen from 1MDB.

It sailed into the Malaysian port a day after Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad thanked Indonesian President Joko Jokowi Widodo for agreeing to hand it over to Malaysian officials.



The Cayman Islands-flagged vessel had been moored off the Indonesian island of Bali since it was boarded by Indonesian police and FBI agents on Feb. 27.

James Haggerty, a lawyer for Jho Low, said Malaysias seizure was against court rulings in Indonesia and the United States. Malaysia has issued an arrest warrant for Jho Low, whose whereabouts are unknown.

Najib told reporters he had no knowledge that Equanimity was purchased using 1MDB funds.

Supporter plans protest

Speaking to BenarNews, a United Malays National Organization (UMNO) Supreme Council member and close friend of Najib slammed the government for its latest action.

The charges have nothing to do with 1MDB and prove that the Pakatan Harapan government led by Mahathir Mohamad is vindictive, Lokman Noor Adam said.

Lokman rallied a group of about 50 supporters outside of MACC headquarters last month to protest as Najib was brought in to be arrested. He expects a similar display of support outside the high court on Wednesday.
President Rodrigo Duterte has created a high-level task force led by his foreign secretary to help secure the release of three Filipinos kidnapped in Libya, his spokesman said Tuesday, four days after threatening to send a warship to rescue the workers seized by gunmen last month.

An angry Duterte on Friday said he might send a frigate to Libya to join a South Korean ship Munmu the Great, a 4,400-tonne vessel, deployed by Seoul last week to pressure the gunmen to release their hostages.

But his spokesman, Harry Roque, on Tuesday said the president had changed his mind after an emergency meeting with his cabinet.

Of course, he has stated previously that he was thinking of sending frigates together with the Koreans, Roque said. But he has since considered the advice of the cabinet to first form a task force.

The Filipinos were with a South Korean when they were seized last month by an unidentified armed group as they worked on a water plant.

Roque said Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano has been tasked to lead the team to deal with the crisis.

He said that the kidnappers are not agents of Libya but are believed to be armed militias engaged in fighting with the government there.

And that is why it was deemed more prudent to work with the Libyan government to see what the demands are, he said.

Cayetano confirmed that he has been asked by Duterte, and said that no demands have yet been put forward. Manila has a policy of not negotiating with terrorists, and it remains to be seen how this would be handled.

Roque said that three Filipinos may have been seized by the Libyan gunmen because they worked in a water company, and that the commodity is considered somehow equally valuable as oil.

The South Korean government has added pressure by threatening to leave the water project in Libya if their national was not released, Roque said.

A video of the four captives appealing for help from their governments emerged on social media last week, forcing the South Korean move.

The footage of workers, posted on the SITE Intelligence Group website, shows them addressing the camera in English. A gunman is seen sitting behind the men in the sand, but no group has claimed responsibility for the kidnapping.

Duterte on Friday said he was considering sending the navys most modern warship to join the search with the instruction to bomb the kidnappers site once theyve found it.

About 3,000 Filipinos work in Libya, according to the Libyan Embassy in Manila.

Libya has been in a state of chaos since Libyan strongman Moammar Gadhafi was ousted and killed in 2011, with armed factions jostling for control of the oil-rich North African state. About 26,000 Filipinos were working in Libya when Gadhafi was in power, Filipino officials said.

The Islamic State has tried to take advantage of the power vacuum since the strongmans death, often targeting diplomats.

While the Philippines bans all travel to Libya, it has not stopped Filipinos from going to the conflict-ridden region and skirting travel restrictions.

About a tenth of the Philippines 103 million people work overseas, many of them as domestic laborers, seamen and construction workers in far-flung areas such as the Middle East, where they are often exposed to danger.
By Olivia Rose

THE CARIBBEAN Development Bank (CDB) is set to evaluate the fiscal and technical work it has conducted in the Turks and Caicos Islands.





The bank announced on Friday, July 27, that loan agreements, grants and other technical support extended to its borrowing member countries between 2005 and 2017 will be assessed.





Lessons and recommendations from the evaluation will be used to improve the banks performance in targeted countries.





Following the acceptance of the Country Strategy Paper developed by the CDB in June 2015, the CDB approved a Country Strategy for Turks and Caicos Islands for the period 2015 to 2018.





The strategy proposed financial support of $100.8 million for the territory from CDB over the four-year period.





The Government worked quickly with the bank to improve its economic resilience and transportation sector.





This saw both a macroeconomic policy based loan and a transportation sector grant approved by the board of directors of the CDB.





The funds were also a spur to a process that aimed to lead to better public-private sector dialogue and shifts in approach to financial management.





James Melanson, head of CDBs Office of Independent Evaluation, said: "The Country Strategy and Programme Evaluation (CSPE) will assess performance with respect to the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability of the portfolio of loans and technical assistance provided to the countries that make up the OECS and the ODTs.





Presently the Turks and Caicos Islands, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines make up the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and Overseas Dependent Territories (ODTs).





Melanson explained that the evaluation is timely and will provide a valuable baseline on the performance of bank programmes in these countries.





The evaluation, which is scheduled for completion by mid-2019, is a tool used by multilateral development banks to assess and interpret past performance, and provide forward-looking conclusions and recommendations.





The CDB is a financial institution that helps Caribbean nations finance social and economic programmes in its member countries.




By Colleen Rerucha '06

Its not how you start, its how you finish.

Thats been Sana Sharpers mantra as she set her sights on completing her business degree; a journey that took a few unexpected turns along the way. The first came just two weeks before Sharper even started college.

The Toledo native had already committed to another university when she attended a Bowling Green State University SOAR session on a whim the summer after her high school graduation.

I really enjoyed the people at the College of Business Sharper said. It was instant. I belong here.

With just weeks to act, she rerouted scholarships and transcripts and enrolled as a BGSU College of Business student.

The sales and services marketing student was involved on campus, assisting with the College of Business Graduate College and the deans office. Her student involvement paid off when Sharper landed a dream internship at Thomson Reuters going into her senior year.

One month into her internship in the inside sales division of the Ann Arbor, Michigan, company, Sharper learned she was pregnant.

It was a really hard time for me," she said. "I had to grow up very fast."

Faced with the responsibilities of motherhood, Sharper made the difficult decision to walk away from her education to pursue full-time employment. Her internship at Thomson Reuters led to an interview and a same-day job offer for a perfectly timed full-time position.

I had to do what was best for me at the time, she said. Being a new mom, I needed to be able to provide for my son.

Sharper relocated to Ann Arbor and began her career, balancing the responsibilities of being a working mother. When her son, Gregory, turned 1, she knew she had to return to complete her degree. With the support of her employer, Sharper set a goal of completing her degree.

I was so close, and I worked so hard to get to that point," she said. "There was no way I was going to walk away and not try and go back and finish.

Sharper worked with the College of Business to find a path to graduation. She continued to work at Thomson Reuters while completing her senior-year coursework online in the individualized business program.

My schedule was so tight," Sharper said. "I wasnt getting home until 6, and then I had my son, and then 9 to midnight, I start grinding, getting through my assignment and then doing my day all over again, just like that.
Plus, Bill's Message of the Day, the loss of religion in America.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For Immediate Release, August 7, 2018

Contact: Kristen Monsell, (914) 806-3467, kmonsell@biologicaldiversity.org

Massive Oil Project Proposed in Fragile Arctic Reserve

ANCHORAGE, Alaska The Trump administration today took a major step toward opening Alaskas National Petroleum Reserve  the largest roadless area in the United States  to new, industrial-scale oil development. The project threatens polar bears, caribou and migratory birds that live and travel through the ecologically rich reserve.

The Bureau of Land Management announced it would prepare a development plan and study for ConocoPhillips to build up to five new drill pads, 250 wells, roads and pipelines in the reserve at its Willow site

This massive oil project threatens one of the wildest, most beautiful places in America, said Kristen Monsell, a senior attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity. It will scar the land, harm wildlife and worsen climate change. We cant let Trump allow the oil industry to suck the life out of this amazing place.

The reserve is the single-largest parcel of public land in the United States at 23 million acres  larger than 12 states. The Willow project would be located within the Bear Tooth Unit of the Reserve, approximately 30 air miles west of the Native village of Nuiqsut.

In addition to the wells, roads and pipelines, the oil company would build and operate a processing facility, an infrastructure pad, an airstrip, a gravel mine and a temporary island to support module delivery via sealift barges.

ConocoPhillips is also seeking to develop the Greater Mooses Tooth Unit, located just east of the Bear Tooth Unit.

BLM is accepting public comments on scoping for an environmental impact statement until Sept. 6. The agencys announcement states that the EIS will be prepared in accordance with President Trumps executive orders on minimizing National Environmental Policy Act review and other regulatory requirements.

Drilling and fracking the Arctic is dirty and dangerous business. Shortcutting environmental analysis raises the risk of oil spills and other pollution, Monsell said. Skirting comprehensive review to drill hundreds of oil wells on Alaskas rugged, unpredictable northern frontier is a recipe for disaster.
According to the FDA, the recall of these drugs might take up to a month to complete.

Four brands of drugs made in China that are supposed to lower blood pressure were removed from shelves in Taiwan recently because they were suspected of containing cancer-causing ingredients.

This observation came into light few weeks ago when types of valsartan produced in China by Huahai Pharmaceutical, based in the province of Zhejiang, were questioned.

According to the FDA, the recall of these drugs might take up to a month to complete. Users of the blood pressure drugs were asked not just to stop taking them, but to also head back to consult their doctors on how to replace the potentially problematic pills.
Nordion's increased focus on gamma technologies supports Sotera Health's company-wide commitment to Safeguarding Global Health

Sotera Health LLC, the world's leading, fully integrated protector of global health, today announced the closing of the sale of the Medical Isotopes segment within its Nordion business to BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT).

With the sale, BWXT now owns Nordion's former medical isotopes business, including the radiochemical and contract manufacturing operations in Kanata, Ontario, and the isotope production facility in Vancouver, British Columbia, along with the transfer of approximately 150 employees.

Nordion retains ownership of its gamma technologies business as well as its state-of-the-art licenced facility in Kanata. Separately, the companies also signed a long-term lease agreement that will allow BWXT to continue operating from Nordion's Kanata facility.
Hindu Auspicious Days In The Month Of August 2018 Faith Mysticism oi-Renu

India's unity in diversity is reflected when the people of all communities and ethnicity gather up to celebrate the festivals. More so because of the number of festivals that are celebrated in India. Festivals queue up every month and the pujas add auspiciousness to them. Here we have brought to you the list of festivals that we will be celebrating in the month of August. Take a look.

August 7 - Kamika Ekadashi

Ekadashi refers to the eleventh day of the fortnight. As there are two fortnights every month, twenty-four Ekadashis come in a year. They add up to twenty-six when there is an extra month known as Adhika Masa according to the Hindu calendar, as it happened this year. Kamika Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the fortnight during Shukla Paksh in the month of Shravana. This year it will be observed on August 7 and August 8. Every Ekadashi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Kamika Ekadashi is observed as a fasting day and is believed to wash away all the sins of the devotee.

August 11 - Anshika Surya Grahan

Anshika Surya Grahan is the Indian name for partial solar eclipse. When the moon, fully or partially blocks the sun for the observer on the earth, it is called the partial solar eclipse. This happens when the sun, moon and the earth are aligned in a straight line. This year we witnessed a solar eclipse of February 15, and another will occur on August 11.

August 13 - Hariyali Teej

The third day of the dark phase or the Krishna Paksh in the month of August is known as Hariyali Teej. Mainly celebrated in the northern regions of India, this festival is most popular among womenfolk. The story of the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati goes behind this. Sweet dishes are prepared and married women go to their native place. This year, Hariyali Teej will be celebrated on August 13, 2018.

August 15 - Naag Panchami

Naag Panchami is dedicated to the worship of snakes. Lord Shiva, as well as Naag Devta, are worshipped on this day. People perform puja before snakes and give them a holy bath in milk. Every year Naag Panchami is celebrated on the fifth day during the Shukla Paksh of Shravana month. This year it will be celebrated on August 15, 2018.

August 17 - Simha Sankranti

Sankranti refers to the day when there is a solar transition from one zodiac to the other. Simha Sankranti refers to the transition of the sun from the Cancer to the Leo zodiacs. With the Sankranti day, starts the Bhadra month as per Bengali Calendar, Chingam month according to Malayalam calendar and Avni month as per the Tamil calendar. On this day people worship Lord Vishnu, Surya Dev and Narsimha Swami. This year the day will be observed on August 17, 2018.

August 22 - Shravana Putrada Ekadashi

The Ekadashi falling on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight or during the Shukla Paksh of the fortnight is known as Putrada Ekadashi. As the Sanskrit name of the fast suggests this Ekadashi is the giver of a boy child. Every year devotees observe it as a fasting day, worshipping Lord Vishnu. This year it will be observed on August 22.

August 24 - Onam

Onam is the biggest festival of Kerala celebrated in the first-month Chingam of the Malayalam calendar. People celebrate it as the homecoming day of the King Maveli. This year it will be observed on August 24, 2018.

August 24 - Varamahalakshmi Vrat

Varamahalakshmi Vrat or Varalakshmi Vrat is celebrated on the Ashtami tithi during the Shukla Paksh of the Bhadrapad month. It is observed as fasting period starting on the Ashtami tithi and continuing for sixteen days from then. All the eight forms of the goddess are worshipped on this day. This year the fasts will be observed from August 24, 2018.

August 26 - Shravana Purnima

Also known as Narali Purnima, the festival is observed by offering coconuts to Varun Dev, the lord of water. It falls on the Purnima day in the month of Shravana; this year it will be observed on August 26, 2018.

August 26 - Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is one of the most awaited festivals for the Indians, especially the sisters, as on this day they tie a thread known as rakhi or raksha sutra around the wrist of their brothers and get gifts in return. Every year, it falls on the Purnima day in the month of Shravana. This year it will be observed on August 26, 2018.

List Of Festivals In Shravana Masa 2018

August 26 - Gayatri Jayanti

Gayatri Jayanti is observed as the birth anniversary of Goddess Gayatri, the goddess of the Vedas also known as Ved Mata. Falling on the Purnima tithi during the Shukla Paksh of Shravana month, it will be celebrated on August 26, 2018.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 21:30 [IST]
By Delana Isles

A NEWLY formed private group has been working hard to augment the work of the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force by providing much needed resources.





That group, referred to as the National Crime Prevention (NCP), is directed by four private sector individuals - Stan Hartling of the Hartling Group, Mark Durliat, CEO and owner of Grace Bay Resorts, Galmo Williams of the Wine Cellar and Carl Simmons of Tropical Shipping.





The board of the NCP oversees the funding it collects from businesses and approves where it will be spent.





Just this past week, the NCP board members joined with the police force and the Government in rolling out the TCIs first closed circuit television (CCTV) system headquartered at Digicel TCIs Leeward Highway location.





In attendance were Hartling and Durliat, who both spoke with reporters after a visit of the 911 call and CCTV Centre that the NCP was instrumental in rehabilitating.





Speaking on behalf of the private sector sponsors of the programme, Hartling said that his four-man board was able to quickly liaise with many businesses in getting funding for the project.





These businesses included resorts, car rental companies, real estate companies and several other businesses in Providenciales.





"Mark Durliat and myself came up with the concept after we had that crime spree and we said look we really need to be part of the solution here and we were amazed at how much the businesses responded to our outreach.





"There were just a lot of companies that came togetherit gave me the confidence that we as a country - the core business people - understand the importance of the police and of safety in this country if we are going to be sustainable.





Hartling said that in less than seven days they were able to raise about $600,000 from sponsors to specifically target national crime prevention.





"We were all getting panicked at that time last year when some of the crimes were increasing - home invasions and some armed incidents - and the initial reaction is fear and then blame the police.





"I think it became evident to us as we looked on that this [police] wasnt necessarily the issue.





"We have some amazing people in the police force that just really needed some help with additional resources and it became evident that normal ways to procure those werent going to be timely and longer than some of us wanted.





He said that the focus of the National Crime Prevention fund is to try and ask where the police and immigration departments need help and where the board can respond in a faster way.





The NCP was very instrumental in the establishment of the new 911 Call Centre, which Hartling said was a major undertaking as everything in the building had to be ripped out and redone with new wiring and air conditioning.





Safety concerns

Hartling said that the other thing they were concerned about was the safety of the police officers.





"I cant imagine being asked to detain or respond to a violent situation or one where you have an armed individual and not be protected yourself, so the group bought very high level Taser guns for which training has taken place, body cams for the police officers so they can record and this helps for evidence in court and makes people a little more accountable when they are around these officers.





"We have been able to do other things, some of which we wont mention. We still have funds there so if there is something that the commissioner needs we can respond within literally four hours if we have to.





Hartling said that the groups intention is to be an additional arm to the Government; stating that the Government still has the primary role, but that the NCP is there to help on fast track missions.





He noted that the monies raised will all go towards the betterment of crime fighting facilities, services and other necessary things.





The funds are put into a trust with a law firm, then the expenditures of the NCP are approved by the board.





Sponsorship of CCTV cameras by businesses - something Hartling had raised questions about during the site visit - is something he believes would be a tremendously good idea, indicating that this would be a great way to increase the network of cameras and thereby the coverage areas.





This he said is the NCPs next phase of its programme, whereby private individuals will be able to mount cameras to the specifications and requirements of the police force.





Hartling said that the group is also examining ways to spend some of its $600,000 funding in acquiring K9 units for the police to enhance that side of their operations.





In his comments, Durliat commended Hartling, whom he said put in most of the heavy lifting on their aspect of the project.





"I think what probably was most important for us to see was the speed at which the private sector came to the call when we had those crises on our hands - Stan and I, with Gilley and Carl were able to mobilise the private sector in such a way that was so meaningful.





He reflected that this showed just how connected the TCI really is, and that crime prevention is not just the business of the Government or the private sector.





"Its about everybody working towards one goal and that is what happened in this case.





"This is just one example, there are so many more out there and we can all collectively work and make it much better, and I think its very satisfying for us and were happy to help, the Grace Bay Resorts CEO said.




By Delana Isles

NEW legislation is being proposed by the PDM Government to replace what is written in the current Hotel and Restaurant Ordinance on service charges for hospitality workers.





A copy of the draft bill obtained by the Weekly News shows that it was drafted on July 20 by the Attorney Generals Chambers.





The bill has not been presented to the House of Assembly for discussion and reports are that it has not been placed on the Order Paper of the House for anytime soon.





While the bill makes a number of changes to the existing legislation, nowhere in the new draft bill does the Government clearly express its intention to restore all of the service charge collected by restaurants and hotels to their workers.





The restoration of 100 percent of the hospitality workers service charge has been a burning issue in the TCI for several years, sparking many promises from elected officials (while in the opposition) of its restoration.





The explanatory memorandum of the very lengthy piece of legislation states that the new bill seeks to repeal and replace the Services Charges (Hotel and Restaurants) Ordinance [2003] to make provision for the collection of service charge from the guests or customers of hotels or restaurants, as the case may be, in respect of services provided to them therein.





The memorandum further states that service charges collected are to be distributed by the proprietor of the hotel or restaurant to its employees in equal shares within 21 days of the end of the calendar month in which they were collected or received.





The bill

The changes to the old bill are as follows: clauses one and two of the bill make provisions for the short title, commencement and interpretation.





Clause three provides for the application of the ordinance to all-inclusive hotels and restaurants in such facilities.





Clause three (2) provides that other hotels and restaurants may elect to levy a service charge and in that case the provisions of the ordinance would apply to such establishments.





Clause four requires hotels and restaurants currently collecting, or hotels and restaurants intending to collect, service charge to be registered with the labour commissioner.





Clause five seeks to specify the difference between tips/gratuities and service charge, stipulating that paying a tip/gratuity is optional whereas service charge is mandatory for all-inclusive hotels and other hotels and restaurants that elect to collect service charge under the ordinance.





Clause six provides for the imposition of a service charge at the rate of 10 percent on services provided to guests or customers of hotels and restaurants.





Clause seven provides for a hotel or restaurant, that elected to levy service charge to, in addition, levy a facility fee at the rate of three percent of the total amount of the charges paid or payable by or in respect of the guest or customer in respect of services provided.





The facility fee is to be retained by the hotel or restaurant for its own use.





Clause eight empowers the minister to, by order, vary the rate of the service charge or facility fee.





Clause nine provides for the distribution of all service charges to the employees of the hotel or restaurant within 21 days of the end of each month.





Clause ten requires a hotel or restaurant with 20 or more employees to designate an employee as troncmaster, responsible for oversight of the management and distribution of the service charges to employees, including explaining such details to employees.





Clause 11 requires the hotel or restaurant to keep sufficiently detailed accounts all service charges collected or received and the manner in which they were distributed.





For the purposes of enforcement, clause 13 of the bill authorises the labour commissioner or an inspector of the Labour Department to inspect any record or register required to be kept under the ordinance for the purposes of ascertaining whether or not the proper amount of service charge is being distributed by a proprietor, by notice in writing require the proprietor.





Clause 14 provides for offences under the ordinance and clause 15 provided for regulations to be made under the ordinance.




By Olivia Rose

PREMIER Sharlene Cartwright Robinson has praised members of parliament for passing an unprecedented 10 bills during a one day sitting, calling the feat "impressive.





In a statement on Monday (July 30), she commended the MPs for putting aside petty differences and supporting pertinent amendments to critical bills.





"We are often quick to show up each others shortcomings and negativity but I pause to celebrate the bipartisanship I saw in the House of Assembly, she said.





"There are instances that I personally expect full bipartisan support and was only recently disappointed that it was not so with all members of the opposition on the amendment to introduce the legal transport to replace the illegal jitney.





"But I was pleased with the show of support for the last set of bills.





"We got off to a slow start with a number of members being absent and a number of withdrawal of members from the gaming control bill which has seen over two years of consultation and delay in its debate from the meeting of July 19.





"With two members overseas, two declarations of conflicts and four members declaring church positions and thereafter abstaining from debate, the bill received wide debate.





During its July 19 sitting, parliament passed five bills including the MSME (Amendment) Bill which seeks to widen opportunities for budding entrepreneurs in islands outside of Providenciales in tourist activity and to allow for a quicker approval of applications under the MSME Programme.





The Immigration (Amendment) Bill ensures that people who are granted PRCs in the investment category retain the investment for a five year period before parting with the investment.





The TC Islander Status (Amendment) Bill enables the establishment of the TC Islander Commission to process applications for citizenship other than by marriage as well as the Electricity (Validation) Bill which corrected actions begun since the 80s.





And the Road Safety (Amendment) Bill will introduce two new classes of public transportation to replace the illegal jitney services.





She noted that there was near bipartisanship on all bills except the Road Safety Amendment Bill where there was no support from the former minister and representative for Grand Turk North.





Nonetheless all five bills were passed.





The House of Assembly met again on Friday, July 27, to consider the Gaming (Control) Bill 2018, Banking (Amendment) Bill 2018, and Financial Service Commission (Amendment) Bill 2018.





It also considered the Companies (Amendment) (No.2) Bill 2016, Prevention of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2018, ?Proceeds of Crime (Amendment) Bill 2018, ?Financial Intelligence Agency (Amendment) Bill 2018, Customs (Amendment) Bill 2018, Miscellaneous (Amendment) (Offences) Bill 2018, and the Court of Appeal (Amendment) Bill 2018.





In a show of bipartisanship, members of the House of Assembly passed all 10 bills in a single day sitting.





In debating the gaming control bill there was objection by members of the opposition which persisted amidst the proposers sharing the importance to regulate and control the existing industry and to ensure it meets international standards.





Members of the opposition disagreed in their report on the consultation that began under the former administration.





The premier said there was a healthy debate even among Governments back and front bench.





"There was an unprecedented show of bipartisanship during the evening where only two members the opposition remained to discuss critical amendments for the regulation of the financial services industry and I wish to thank the Hon. Washington Misick, the Leader of the Opposition, and Hon. Ruth Blackman who stayed the course and made contribution to the critical bills that were all moved by the attorney general that allowed TCI to be in a better position ahead of another assessment later this year.





"It is such a thrill when people demonstrate this level of commitment to the peoples work whether opposing or supporting, recognising that each one has a voice that should be heard.





"We have therefore been able to pass 15 critical pieces of legislation and we should all be proud of this record.




DESIGNERS of Salt Cays new multi-million dollar resort say it will be powered by alternative energy sources in order to create a "green footprint.





Resort specialists EDSA have been working with the developer and resort operator for nearly a year to create the one of a kind property.





All parties are "very committed to the sustainability of the natural resources of Salt Cay, a statement from the company on July 6 said.





Together they "have a commitment to improve the quality of life of the residents that live on Salt Cay, while bringing to life the vision of international resort operator Six Senses.





"During our preliminary planning and design effort, we spent considerable time with Six Senses staff so that we could better understand the core beliefs of this unique five-star resort operator, the EDSA statement read.





"More than a commitment to the environment and a high-quality guest experience, Six Senses will strive for a green footprint by utilising alternative energy sources.





Part of their plan is to buy as much local produce that is practical and offer a farm to table experience every day.





The developer is also considering new forms of agriculture and aquaculture and plans to develop these systems with local entrepreneurs.





"The resort will be the best customer for these businesses in their developmental stage, EDSA said, "with the hope that this incubator process will result in enterprises that will extend their reach well beyond the island of Salt Cay and the Turks and Caicos Islands as a whole.





Salt Cay, which is scattered with historical sites and ruins from the salt raking days, has over time excited the enthusiasm of historians, photographers and tourists alike who enjoy exploring these many attractions.





Neil Jacobs, CEO of Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, said the small island has an "extraordinary amount of natural beauty as well as volumes of history to offer visitors.





"A core value at Six Senses is sustainable practice and becoming an integral part of the community, he stressed.





"Salt Cays history is unique and Six Senses are very excited to be offered the opportunity to become a part of that history.





In early 2010 Slovakian developers Salt Cay Devco signed an agreement with Six Senses Resort and Spas to build a $200 million resort on Salt Cay.





The company was owned by financier Mario Hoffmann, who made the TCI his second home in 1999, and CEO Stefan Kral.





In 2009 during the Commission of Inquiry the firm came under intense fire for allegedly bullying dissident residents along with making unsavoury deals with the former ousted Government.





In August 2010, the then governor Gordon Wetherell said the controversial scheme could not move ahead before the outcome of upcoming corruption investigations, and the project was shelved.





In 2012 in an out of court settlement Mario Hoffmann surrendered his Belongership and handed back 1,506 acres of Salt Cay land to the Government.





However, the Slovak businessman refused to admit any wrongdoing.





Gladys Kennedy of the Salt Cay Community in Action (SCCIA) organisation said the news that Six Senses is coming back to Salt Cay has given the residents new hope.





"The residents of Salt Cay are in desperate need of a hotel development, especially this type, where the main focus is on protecting the environment, sustainability and wellness, and from what we have learnt to date Six Senses will become a valuable member of our community.





"SCCIA organisation understands that the new developer involved with the proposal has no ties or any affiliation with the previous developers, Salt Cay Devco.





"I understand that the new developer is committed to preserving the islands rich heritage and will engage with residents and stakeholders as soon as is appropriate.





She said residents are very much looking forward to working with the company in the not too distant future.





"Having a hotel brand that has been voted number one in the world planning to join our community will be a huge boost for the people of Salt Cay and Grand Turk, she concluded.





Cabinet recently considered a proposal for the development of a new Six Senses resort on Salt Cay.





The resort, if given the go ahead, will create hundreds of new jobs, boost tourism and transform the small islands economy.




The European Commission has announced what it describes as the European Investment Bank's largest-ever support for agri-business in Ireland.

Belfast-based agri-technology company Devenish Nutrition has secured 118m in long-term funding to enable its research, development and growth plans.
By Olivia Rose

SEVERAL past and present leaders of the TCI will meet on August 9 to discuss a strategic approach to illegal migration and security in the territory.





In an official document obtained by the Weekly News, Hon. Sean Astwood, Deputy Premier and Minister of Border Control and Employment Services, invited former chief ministers, premiers and ministers of border control to engage in a high-level think tank meeting on security issues facing the nation.





Astwood in his invite stated that the Government is concerned that sloop arrivals are at the highest in the territorys history.





"This trend we believe will continue to rise as the pull factors to our Islands such as a low-taxation, strong and growing economy, the rise of the construction sector and the promise of employment in imminent developments, the opportunities for new small and medium business and the easy access to social, health and educational services, all serve as beacons to many immigrants both legal and illegal.





"This compounded by the political crisis in nearby Haiti has profound implications for our people and our country and we can ill afford to be passive in our approach to addressing this critical matter, the deputy premier stated.





The TCI has a long history of illegal migration particularly from neighbouring countries of Hispaniola and to a lesser extent Jamaica, but in recent times the situation has worsened to crisis levels.





"In recent years there has been an exponential increase in sloop arrivals which is of a national concern and has the potential to negatively impact the lives and businesses all of our citizens and those living among us, Astwood said.





"We are therefore of the firm belief that the calls for a bipartisan approach and cooperation at the highest level in order to effectively address and combat this challenge, and agree the pathway to the eventual stemming of the illegal migration.





He stressed that his ministry continues to do its utmost to fight illegal migration and in recent months has had notable success. But despite these achievements much work is left to be done.





"We remain cognisant that while we continue to affect our operational mandate, there is need for a strategic direction and sustainable programme in order to curb this issue for the long term.





"During the period October 2017 to March 2018 we have had a total of 18 sloop landings, of which only two were intercepted.





Hon. Astwood admitted that many sloops were undetected during that period due to challenges with faulty equipment at the coastal radar station.





He said: "We are pleased to inform that the equipment is now working at its full capacity following the replacement of the computer and tracking software by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in March of this year, and the return of the rate of detection and monitoring back to 99 percent.





While the task force continues to mount joint operations with the police department and other enforcement agencies, the most successful being Operation Guardian which saw the apprehension and repatriation of numerous people who were illegally residing and working in the TCI, the arrival of sloops has not waned.





Strategic approach necessary

Minister Astwood said this summit will provide an opportunity for key stakeholders to work together to curb the incessant migration problem that is gnawing away at the TCIs social and economic fabric.





"We have all seen and heard various comments, suggestions and proposals through social media and otherwise, on ways to deal with this onslaught of illegal migration and the domino effects it has on all aspects of our beloved country.





"We are equally aware of the rising frustration and fear among our people as manifested in their recent rise to apprehend illegal immigrants themselves.





"This practice, unfortunately, is both dangerous and ill-advised as they do not have the skills or authority to undertake such activity.





"Left unaddressed we fear the potential emergence of vigilantes in seeking a safer community.





"Therefore, and through this summit, we welcome and seek your input and collaboration for the eventual agreement for strategic approaches on matters of immigration and illegal migration.





At the one day summit leaders are expected to engage on discussions on several thematic areas including countermeasures to deter illegal sloop arrivals, combating the problem of over-stays, regularisation or not of children born in the TCI to illegal parents among other issues.




One Irishman pulled out all the stops when it came to proposing to his girlfriend and that included getting his local chipper involved.

Staff at Chip Co in Belfast received their strangest order yet when they spotted that a customer had left a note on his order asking if they'd help him pop the question to his partner.
Limerick takes on Galway for an incredible battle in Croke Park to win the Liam McCarthy Cup in less than two weeks time.

But for one cafe in Kerry, they believe that they have got the perfect offer available in order to secure themselves the hard sought tickets.
There is a call for immediate action to tackle a rise in crack cocaine use across Dublin.

Local drug task forces and Gardai say there has been an increase in crime linked to use of the drug in the past year.
Motorists could face a tax on the distance they drive rather than pay excise duty on fuel.

It is just one of the options being considered by the government to maintain tax revenue, as lower-emission cars become more popular.

The Irish Times reports Department of Finance officials are warning the move to more efficient cars could 'could severely challenge the revenue' generated for the exchequer.

A similar suggestion in the past faced a backlash from TDs in rural areas and the commuter belt.

CEO of AA Ireland Brendan Nevin says there are a number of difficulties with the proposal.

"There are two problems with it. First of all, it will disadvantage drivers who have to drive further distances," he said.

"The second problem is how do you collect the money? How do you measure the mileage?"

"Currently it's easy with fuel because if you use more fuel, you'll be doing more mileage so you'll pay more tax.

"But in systems like this, how do you know how far everyone's driven?

"The danger is you end up spending more money collecting the tax than you take in from it."

Digital Desk
Update 9.15pm, August 8: Patrick Holland has been located safe and well in Dublin.

Earlier, August 7: Gardai are seeking the public's assistance in locating Patrick Holland, 57, who is missing from his home in Pearse Street, Dublin 2.

Patrick is missing since early morning on Bank Holiday Monday, 6th August.

Patrick is described as being 5'9" in height, of large build with white/grey hair and brown eyes and wears his glasses at all times.

It is not known what Patrick was wearing when he left home.

Gardai and Patrick's family are concerned for him and anyone with information is asked to contact Pearse Street Garda Station on 01 - 6669000, The Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Digital Desk
Talks between Ryanair and the union representing Dublin-based pilots are expected to get underway this week.

On Friday, the airline agreed to allow a third party to intervene in the long-running dispute which has already seen four days of strike action.
By David Raleigh

A West Cork missionary priest serving in South Sudan has given a chilling account of the moment a mob attacked his compound as a civil war rages in the country.

Up to 500 humanitarian workers have been evacuated from the Maban region, but Fr Tony ORiordan, who is leading the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), has remained there to oversee a school building project and a teacher training programme.

The attack has forced JRS to suspend all but critical activities to safeguard staff remaining in Maban, said a JRS statement.

Maban County is home to one of the worlds most isolated refugee camps - a sprawling tent city for over 150,000 refugees.

The camps contain refugees who have fled famine and persecution in the Blue Nile region.

In the latest outbreak of violence, ORiordans compound was attacked.

It happened on July 23, but telecommunication links out of the region are poor.

Responding via a series of social media messages ORiordan said today there are fifty of us left.

The situation is unpredictable.

In an online posting on August 5, ORiordan described how his personal walkie-talkie radio buzzed through news of an impending attack on his compound.

News was filtering through on the radio of serious damage being done to property, buildings and warehouses were being set on fire, cars were being trashed and property was being looted, he said.

The closest compound to us is only 300 metres away, soon we could hear that they were under attack.

We knew it was only a matter of time before a raiding party would arrive at our compound.

We had locked up what we could. Local staff had run to their homes.

Those of us remaining in the compound took shelter in our four strongest rooms.

We feared the worst.

We could hear the commotion of the 200 to 300 attackers who set out to cause mayhem.

ORiordan described it as part of a coordinated series of attacks on NGO compounds.

ORiordan radioed UN Rwandan-soldiers based in the country to extract us...but the event had caught everyone by surprise and the troops were overwhelmed.

He described the terrifying moment the violent mob attempted to breach his compounds perimeter fence, made of zinc metal sheeting:

We could hear the (zinc) sheets being pelted. We could hear the shrieks of a baying mob...we could hear gunshots.

Eventually, four members of the local parish council convinced the mob to desist and retreat.

We were the only NGO compound to escape.

ORiordan said it was a miracle no lives were lost in the attacks.

However, he said, protestors left a trail of destruction causing damage to the Jesuit learning centre where we deliver teacher training, English language classes and computer training was not spared.

In fact, it is totally destroyed and everything was looted.

Beds, books, computers, cooking pots, tables and chairs  everything was taken.

The only thing that remains are the examination scripts of the 500 student teachers who had sat examinations the week before the attacks.

ORiordan queried speculation in the region that the protest was fueled by a lack of access to employment for locals: No one yet knows whether this was an isolated act of organised violence or whether it is a prelude to a larger plan.

Why would the protest actually shut down the organiastions that already employ hundreds of locals?, he asked.

The violence has resulted in the evacuation of five hundred humanitarian workers to the capital Juba, ORiordan said.

Like other NGOs we headed under escort and took shelter in the barracks of the UN soldiers, he added.

In another recent outbreak of violence 19 unarmed civilians were shot dead.

The dead included women and children.

In another incident, at a sister JRS project in Yambio, up to 40 children were abducted.

The boys to be forced to fight, the girls to be used as sex slaves.

Despite the violence, ORiordan said he remains committed to re-focusing his efforts on rebuilding what has been destroyed in the latest violence.

We cannot give up, he said.

A statement posted on the JRS Irish website described the attacks on NGOs as vicious.

More than 300 staff from NGOs in the region, including 25 JRS team members have now been evacuated by the UN for their safety, it added.

The team is now safe and the project leader Fr Tony O'Riordan SJ is currently monitoring the situation.

The attack has forced JRS to suspend all but critical activities in the local communities and with the refugee population in the Maban area.

As the safety of the JRS team and facilities is under threat at the moment and resources including classrooms and equipment have been destroyed in the attack, there is no option to temporarily suspend work in the region.

This will leave more than 80,000 people without access to the English-language classes, computer courses and teacher training education and training which provide much-needed opportunities for a more stable future for them and their community.

Despite the attack on our facilities, the Irish Jesuit Mission office and partners will continue to support the JRS team on the ground in their commitment to provide psycho-social support and education programmes in the region, stated Fr John Guiney SJ, Director of Irish Jesuit Missions which funds JRS programmes in Maban.

Morale among the JRS team has been badly shaken by the incident which was frightening for everyone to witness.

They are supporting each other, and are grateful for the leadership and guidance that Tony ORiordan has provided, which has proved invaluable at this difficult time.

This incident in Maban and other such incidents of violence in South Sudan over the past number of years calls for an urgent intervention by the international community to help to restore law, order and security for all of the people of this young nation said Fr Guiney.
By Olivia Rose

THE TCI Government will soon resume bilateral talks with the government of the Bahamas on possible cooperation to tackle the problem of illegal immigration from Haiti.





Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson told reporters on Thursday, July 26, at a press briefing that Governor John Freeman has approved an official visit of a high level delegation to the Bahamas.





She said: "On the matter of illegal migration, discussions with the Bahamas, the governor this past week has issued the diplomatic note that would allow the high level TCI delegation to travel to the Bahamas to further this dialogue.





"Persons would recall that the Bahamas had agreed to assist with the patrolling of our waters and a letter of entrustment was requested by myself and the UK minister who has graciously agreed to allow for the exploratory talks.





Back in 2014, former Governor Peter Beckingham initiated a trilateral meeting which saw the Bahamas, Haiti and the TCI discussing strategies to stem the flow of illegal migrants from Haiti.





However, no strategies or policies were derived from that meeting and the illegal migration issue soared as time progressed.





Cartwright Robinson revealed that the Government has made requests to the UK government for manpower to help officers on the ground and for a devised sustainable approach and way forward in tackling border patrol issues.





"We will, as promised, identify ways to receive ideas from our people in a secured fashion and will continue the successful efforts of Operation Guardian.





She added that the TCI, with its wide coastline, requires much resources and the bolstering of patrol at this time is much needed together with regional and other international support.





The premier said that these "brazen attacks are an assault on the UKs sovereignty and that the UK must do more in a sustainable way to fulfil its constitutional mandate for external and internal security.





"We encourage residents to not harbour or employ any undocumented individual. We will strictly enforce the laws and will deal with any and all culprits to its fullest extent.





She added that as the territory bolsters its patrol, upgrades the radar and carries out special operations, residents must remain vigilant and report all suspicious activities and individuals.




Relatives of the Stardust campaign have renewed their calls for an inquest into the fire which killed 48 people and has also never resulted in anyone being held accountable.

Families and activists met in Dublin today and outlined their plan to appeal to the Attorney General; to use his discretion to open an inquest into the deaths and tragedy.

Lisa Lawlor joined relatives at the event. The young women was aged two when the fire engulfed victims at the Dublin disco in 1981 and she lost both her mother and father in the tragedy.

She has called for justice and has now joined what is being called the postcard and public campaign to get the new inquest into the 48 deaths.

Lawyers and the relatives plan to submit an application to Attorney General Seamus Woulfe in the coming weeks which they claim includes fresh evidence and advances an argument to host a new inquest.

Sinn Fein MEP Lynn Boylan said there was huge momentum around the campaign.

The Stardust Justice Campaign are seeking a new inquest into the 1981 tragedy. These postcards are for supporters to send to the Attorney General. pic.twitter.com/I2Y8msUCzU  aoife moore. (@aoifegracemoore) August 7, 2018

It is intended to hand tens of thousands of the 'truth' postcards into government in September.

Antoinette Keegan, who lost two sisters in the tragedy, claimed there was support among all political sides for the new inquest, except from Fine Gael and Fianna Fail.

We have been waiting 37 years. We want truth and justice, she said at today's launch.

Ms Lawlor said she wanted an inquiry reopened into the deaths to also get justice for her late mother and father.
Gardai in Arklow, Co Wicklow, believe they have foiled a major theft at a jewellers in the town.

Officers were called to the shop on Bridge Street shortly after 3am where four raiders were attempting to break into the shop.
THIS July the UK Hydrographic Office began a seven week survey of the waters around the Turks and Caicos Islands using a specially adapted aircraft.





The in-depth study will allow the agency to update old seabed charts and identify hazards to allow for safer navigation around the territory.





"The data from this survey will also enable scientists to carry out research based on the information, and enable government departments to use this data for planning for the future, a statement on July 27 from the UK Hydrographic Office said.





The four year UK government funded seabed mapping programme is taking place around all of Britains overseas territories.





It will ensure that they are fulfilling their international maritime safety obligations under the International Maritime Organisations Safety of Life at Sea Convention.





In January, the UK Hydrographic Office undertook a technical visit to assess the current situation in the Turks and Caicos Islands.





The visit looked at the legislation currently in place and what support could be provided to the TCI through the seabed mapping programme.





The agency also identified potential areas for surveying and future capacity building through training and technical support.





In July, UK Hydrographic Office began its survey of the waters around the Turks and Caicos Islands.





"Undertaking new surveys with modern equipment ensures we capture the features on the seabed and identify dangers, the statement said.





The survey will take place daily for about seven weeks and will consist of a small aircraft flying twice daily for up to four hours at a time over the Caicos Bank and Grand Turk areas.





The aircraft will be at a height of around 300 meters and will be operating survey equipment to capture the depth of water, height of land as well as high resolution images of both the land and sea.





"A good understanding of the ocean is fundamental in efforts to help island territories realise their economic potential within their marine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and manage their marine resources sustainably, the UK Hydrographic Office said.





The data taken from this type of survey has many applications and can be used at every level from the government departments, agencies and port authorities, to cargo ship captains and local skippers.





"Fundamentally, this exercise is grounded in helping the Turks and Caicos to realise its economic potential and unlock the benefits of the blue economy.





"Aside from economic benefits, the navigational benefits for captains of any sized vessel are clear - a greater understanding of the ocean surrounding the islands will directly support safer navigation.





Data collected during surveys will be used to produce updated navigational charts, in digital and print format, for mariners who transit the territorys waters or call at its port and berths.





Finally, all of the findings of the survey will be provided to the Government to help inform their decisions for maritime policy.





The UK Hydrographic Office is the UKs agency providing hydrographic and marine geospatial data to mariners and maritime organisations across the world.





Together with other national hydrographic offices and the International Hydrographic Organisation, it works to set and raise global standards of hydrography, cartography and navigation.




Diversified conglomerate Wesfarmers is on track to exit the coal business by the end of the year after agreeing to sell its stake in the Bengalla coal mine in NSW for $860 million.

Chief financial officer Anthony Gianotti said there had been strong interest in its 40 per cent interest in Bengalla, an open-cut black coal mine near Muswellbrook.

There is a lot of interest in good quality thermal coal mines in Australia, and I think Bengalla is one of those, Mr Gianotti said.

New Hope, which already had a 40 per cent stake in the joint venture that owns the mine, has agreed to buy out Wesfarmers' share. The other partners in the joint venture are Taipower and Mitsui, which each have a 10 per cent stake.

Wesfarmers expects to report a pre-tax profit on the deal of about $670 million to $680 million.
It's striking how quickly widely held assumptions about the housing market can be turned on their heads, thanks to changes in sentiment and market conditions.

This is clearest in Sydney and Melbourne, where it wasn't that long ago that FOMO or the "fear of missing out" appeared to be driving prices ever higher.

The house price slump is being caused by tighter access to credit, economists say. Credit:Louise Kennerley

After years of rapid growth, the assumption that prices always rise seemed to catch on with many - despite conventional measures suggesting housing was overvalued.

Now, some say that if things were to worsen a lot more, we may have to get our heads around a new acronym: FONGO, or "fear of not getting out," as more people try to sell before prices fall further.
Molly still wants to be a fairy when she grows up.

The 12-year-old has epilepsy and a chromosone condition so rare it doesn't have a name but it means she functions at the level of a six year old. Three years ago, her family thought they would lose her to a brain tumour. Now, she is about to graduate primary school.

But, after carefully-orchestrated plans to place Molly in a specialist learning unit at Melba Copland Secondary School abruptly fell through last week, her parents fear she will lag even further behind her peers in a mainstream classroom.

12 year old Molly Browne, who has a rare chromosome condition as well as epilepsy, needs a learning support unit but, as her family live over the border, they've been told she can only access mainstream education Credit:Dion Georgopoulos

There are 48 learning support units across the territory's 107 schools, 14 of which are in high schools, where students with disabilities or autism can get more intensive support outside regular classes.
Police want to speak to this man after he allegedly assaulted a 12-year-old boy in Rivett on July 26. Credit:ACT Policing

Police have released a face-fit image of a man who allegedly assaulted a 12-year-old boy in the Canberra suburb of Rivett last month.

The boy was walking along a pathway connecting Salsola Street and Darwinia Terrace about 3.15pm on July 26 when the alleged assault happened.

The man is described as being in his mid-30s, Caucasian in appearance, about 180 centimetres tall, and of medium to solid build.

At the time, he had an orange beard and was wearing black sunglasses, a black hooded jumper with the hood up, black tracksuit pants, red socks and black shoes.
It's an 18-plus event with no alcohol, just a lot of axes and a wall to throw them at.

Described as something like darts  just with cleavers, tomahawks and axes  the sport of axe throwing has arrived in Brisbane.

Throw an axe or two for fun and sport with Lumber Punks

After a highly successful first venture to the Gold Coast, Lumber Punks has brought its American-inspired sport to Brisbane's West End.

Book a session and you and your friends can happily throw axes at a target, developing your skill and precision while shrugging off the day's stresses.
Brisbane City Council spent almost $14,000 of ratepayers money to send promotional material on the LNPs budget commitments to four non-LNP wards.

On Tuesday, it was revealed the council spent $13,975 on sending Lord Mayor Graham Quirks 2018-19 Budget Newsletter for four council wards including Deagon, Forest Lake, Tennyson and The Gabba.

Brisbane City Council brochure sent to Tennyson Ward residents with details of the 2018-19 budget. Credit:Nicole Johnston

Labor councillors represent Deagon and Forest Lake wards, independent councillor Nicole Johnston is the councillor for Tennyson while Greens councillor Jonathan Sri represents The Gabba.

The other three wards held by Labor  Moorooka, Morningside and Wynnum Manly  did not receive the brochure.
Ipswich city councillors will not receive payouts when they are sacked, the Queensland government says.

There are no provisions within the law that would allow sacked councillors to get payouts despite protests those not facing corruption charges should be compensated, Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe has confirmed.

Sacked councillors are not eligible for payouts, according to Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe. Credit:AAP

"That is not required for under any of the provisions under the Local Government Act as it currently exists," Mr Hinchliffe said on Tuesday.

The government will introduce special legislation to sack Ipswich council after 15 people linked to the local government were charged with dozens of corruption and related offences.
Speeds will drop to 30km/h on residential streets in Collingwood and Fitzroy from September in a move believed to be an Australian first, transport reporter Timna Jacks writes.

It is understood that this will serve as a test case and the new speed limit could be proposed for other areas in Melbourne if the trial is successful.

Check out the full article.
Every Melbourne state school will be audited amid concerns some cleaners have had their pay cut and are struggling to do their job.

Education Minister James Merlino announced the audit after The Age revealed parents were complaining about dirty schools and some cleaners were being paid less following a controversial state government overhaul of school cleaning.

Education Minister James Merlino. Credit:AAP

More than 120 principals have raised concerns with the department, with many reporting that their cleaning hours had been reduced.

"We have directed the Department of Education and Training to conduct an audit following the reports in The Age to ensure no cleaners are paid less per hour and all schools get the appropriate hours to ensure industry-standard cleaning," Mr Merlino said.
One question shapes everything else in Australian energy and climate policy, but it is the hardest question for some to answer.

Who will vote for federal laws to reduce carbon emissions by 26 per cent?

This is fundamental to the argument over the Turnbull governments National Energy Guarantee and is coming to Federal Parliament in less than a week.

Federal Labor is yet to decide where it stands. Should it vote for the 26 per cent cut across the electricity sector, the target that underpins the energy guarantee? Or should it vote down the government bill in the belief that the target must be its policy of a 45 per cent reduction?

The bill to enact this cut will be put to the Coalition party room on Tuesday morning, shown to the states and territories on the same day and prepared for introduction to Federal Parliament soon afterwards.
Alex Bhathal during the Batman campaign. Credit:AAP

The Greens Victorian branch has apologised to its candidate in the Batman federal byelection over the handling of internal bullying allegations that damaged her bid to win the federal seat.

The party has also promised a truth, reconciliation and healing process to resolve the internal ructions, borrowing a term from Nelson Mandelas social justice reforms in South Africa.

Alex Bhathals ultimately failed campaign in the inner-northern electorate was rocked by claims of bullying against her in the weeks before the March byelection.

A 101-page dossier listing complaints against the social worker was leaked during the campaign.
In another a furious woman, collecting what was left of her possessions from the ruins of her house, rounded on us. What are you doing, just taking photos, youre not making any donation, youre not helping me to rebuild. You are of no use. Time and again, locals tell us that help from government agencies in the form of food and water has been slow to arrive, or hasnt arrived at all. An injured woman lies at a temporary shelter in North Lombok. Credit:AP The sense of anger and frustration among locals at the patchy government response seems to be growing  especially in some of the harder hit areas in the north of Lombok.

Help is coming, but slowly. Army trucks, police and ambulances whiz past on a regular basis and aid agencies are starting to mobilise. But with so many destroyed houses, roofs thrown violently to the roadside and walls struck to the ground, the more populated, easy to access areas are receiving help first. Ismail and his wife Suhaini, from a sub-village in Pemenang of about 40 families, returned to their destroyed house on Tuesday to try and salvage some of their possessions. Our house, maybe in three seconds, it was gone and everybody else's in the village too. All gone, flat, ruined!" "We escaped just with the clothes on our back, we [the villagers] set up camp nearby. Everybody was afraid to go home, this is the first time we came home. I've been wearing the same clothes for three days now. We need a change of clothes.

Four houses down, an eight-year-old girl had been crushed to death. Two doors down, eight members of the same family were severely injured. These stories are repeated up and down the Pemenang Raya road. An hour north up the road, a joint team comprising search and rescue agency Barsanas, the army and the police is still working to find survivors from the Lading-Lading mosque.

Barsanas leading officer on the scene, Agung Alit, is blunt: We can't really say how many were trapped when the sprawling two storey mosque collapsed. Two people have come out alive, three bodies have been found and work will continue until the head Imam, Wira Kelana, is found. A damaged mosque in North Lombok. Credit:AP He was last seen by the side door of the mosque. We will continue maybe a day or two till we find him, Alit says. The likelihood of him being found alive is diminishing every day.

The full impact of Sundays earthquake on Lombok, which lacks the infrastructure and popularity of Bali, is only now becoming apparent. The death toll is now 105, with 236 people injured and it is expected to rise further because authorities believe people have been hit and killed by buildings including mosques, health clinics and houses which have collapsed. Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a spokesman for the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, BNPB, said at a briefing that most of the dead had been found in North Lombok The number of people evacuated from the holidays islands of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air has reached 4636.
US national security adviser John Bolton says that North Korea has not made progress toward denuclearisation, in a dismal acknowledgment that comes nearly two months after President Donald Trump held a historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Singapore.

"The United States has lived up to the Singapore declaration. It's just North Korea that has not taken the steps we feel are necessary to denuclearise," Bolton said in an interview on Fox News Channel on Tuesday morning (local time).

He added that the US will continue to apply pressure until Pyongyang produces results.

"The idea that we're going to relax the sanctions just on North Korea's say-so, I think, is something that just isn't under consideration," Bolton said. "We're going to continue to apply maximum pressure to North Korea until they denuclearise, just as we are to Iran."
He points to the Tommy Robinson affair  a remarkable amount of attention given to a man who put a trial at risk through ham-fisted, provocative "reporting" aimed at stirring anti-Islam sentiment. Tommy Robinson, former leader of the far-right English Defence League, was released on bail last week while he appeals a 13-month jail sentence for live-streaming outside a criminal trial in violation of reporting restrictions. Credit:AP ... the general populist, nationalist, white supremacist and Islamophobic far right that weve seen elsewhere in Europe spreading to the UK. Professor Jonathan Portes, Kings College London And there is this: UKIP has suspended three party members involved in an attack on a socialist bookshop in London on the weekend. Twelve people wearing Make Britain Great Again caps, with one wearing a Trump mask, entered the shop brandishing "goodbye fake news" placards, ripped up magazines and chanted "Trump Trump we love Trump", "fk Communism" and "traitor". A video showed them shouting at people in the shop, harassing shopworkers and yelling "paedophiles" and "Corbynite scum".

Labour MP Andrew Adonis said the scenes were straight out of 1930s Germany. A group of 12 men stormed a socialist bookshop in London last weekend. They harassed staff and customers, accusing them of being communists, paedophiles and traitors. Credit:YouTube And on Monday Boris Johnson was widely criticised over a column in London's Telegraph on Monday, in which the former foreign secretary said women in burqas looked like letter boxes or bank robbers  and argued that businesses, universities and government branches should be able to ban burqas, though he didnt appear to support a complete public ban. Demonstrators against far-right activist Tommy Robinson protest outside London's Royal Courts of Justice last week. Robinson was released on bail while he appeals a 13-month jail sentence for live-streaming outside a criminal trial in violation of reporting restrictions. Credit:PA/AP On Tuesday Conservative Party chairman Brandon Lewis told Johnson to apologise - however he has so far refused to, reportedly calling the demand "ridiculous".

[Boris Johnson] is obviously trying to market test what he can get away with. Jonathan Portes, Kings College London Portes says if Johnson took the Tory leadership  a prospect suddenly not as unlikely as it was a month ago  he might be able to align the conservatives under a platform of hard Brexit and standard right-wing populism  taking back the UKIP defectors but holding onto the centre. Hes obviously trying to market test what he can get away with, Portes says. British artist Banksy's "Vote to Love" message over a UKIP placard is among the works in the Royal Academy of Arts' annual Summer Exhibition. Credit:AP Professor Matthew Goodwin, research director in politics at the University of Kent, is about to publish a book titled National Populism, the Revolt against Liberal Democracy.

He says theres no doubt UKIP has seen a bump in the polls, doubling its numbers (from a low base) since May unveiled the governments Brexit plan (prompting the resignation of pro-Brexit ministers Johnson and David Davis). That deal angered a lot of grassroots conservatives, Goodwin says. More than half of Conservative voters say they would be open to supporting a right-wing party that was unequivocally committed to Brexit  something they dont think the Conservatives currently are. Most are very dissatisfied with the Prime Minister and want a cleaner break from Brussels than she is offering. It is clear there is public appetite for a revolt on the right of the Conservative party. There is a catch: the UKIP of today is not the UKIP that we knew under [former leader] Nigel Farage. Loading Current leader Gerard Batten is more interested in Islam, more willing to develop links with people and groups further to the right (such as Robinson), and is wary of, and uncomfortable dealing with, the mainstream media.

Farage had managed an alliance of working class voters who cared passionately about immigration, with middle class conservatives who cared passionately about leaving the European Union. The new UKIP is showing little sign, yet, of being able to permanently attract both types. But it is an increasingly comfortable place for conservatives to park a protest vote. This is not a first date, a lot of these voters have gone out with this party before, they might have voted for UKIP at the local or European elections, says Goodwin. The Conservatives dont have the tribal loyalism they once had. Portes says once Farage left UKIP, the leadership decided to mimic Europes far right  such as Frances Front National, or Italys Lega. Britain hasnt had 20 years of economic stagnation and corruption to completely discredit the established parties and leave the door wide open to populism.

On the other hand there is a 10-15 per cent constituency for this approach, and we have had periods in the past in the UK, the mid to late '70s for example, where you had openly racist parties running about level in the polls, Portes says. Is there a constituency for an Islamophobic populist party? Either UKIP, new-UKIP or some new party? Potentially, yes. It would not be astonishing. But Goodwin says political movements seen to associate too closely with Islamophobic views are still viewed as highly toxic to mainstream voters. Public attitudes have changed  but surveys suggest theyve become more favourable, not less, to immigration since the Brexit vote. Concern over immigration is still widespread and concern over crime is rising. Both play into right-wing themes.
Los Angeles: A Sikh man living in the US, who was recently ambushed, beaten up and told to return to his country said he believed that the very thing that may have prompted the assault also protected him from further harm.

"My turban really saved me," Surjit Malhi of Turlock, California, said in an interview on Monday.

Surjit Malhi, the Sikh man from California who was assaulted. Credit:KCRA/Youtube

Malhi, 50, was putting up political campaign signs near his home, about 100 km east of San Jose, on July 31 when, he said, two men came up behind him and accosted him. They threw sand in his eyes so he could not see, he said, and struck his head and back with what appeared to be a stick and a belt.

"You don't belong here," he said they told him.
Latest News Smaller capital cities notch highest auction volumes in years Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra impress in this week's early results

ANZ posts 72% rise in profits $6bn in NPAT for major lender on back of 179,000 new home loans written

Approximately 42% of Australians aged 18 to 29 still live with their parents, yet 79% believe they will move into their own home one day, according to data from property co-ownership platform Kohab.

However, while they still dream of home ownership more than half of young Australians have less than $5,000 in the bank. In fact, 28% are buried in more than $5,000-worth of debt despite 46% having full-time jobs.

To help young Australians achieve their home-ownership dream, Kohab and property developer Dyldam recently partnered to enable aspiring home owners to purchase just half a property. The development, Opera Merrylands Precinct, is located in the heart of western Sydney.

The partnership will allow buyers to receive a $10,000 discount on apartment prices, which also aims to provide maximum affordability for investors and first-time home buyers.

Kohab property co-ownership and CEO/co-founder David Dawson said, Buying a property with someone else increases your chance of being approved even on just a portion of the loan.

Related stories:

Tighter credit conditions take toll on home prices

Homeowners face refi challenges as values fall
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The best beer comes from Brooklyn  and thats official!

The second annual New York State Craft Beer Competition gave its highest honor to Threes Brewing last week, giving the Gowanus brewery the Governors Excelsior Cup for the second year in a row. In a blind taste test, the brewerys Belgian farmhouse-style ale Passing Time Grisette beat out 641 other beers from around the state. Winning the top award in New Yorks vibrant beer scene is an incredible feat, said the brewerys co-founder.

We were thrilled, its really exciting, said Josh Stylman. Its a great honor to be recognized with such a great beer group.

Last year, the brewerys Vliet pilsner also earned the top award. Winning two years in a row helps to validate the work the brewery has done, said Stylman.

Its nice to get some recognition  the team here works really hard, day in and day out, he said. We hope that it brings attention to the brewery and the brewing community here in Brooklyn.

Stylman was especially happy that the winning beer was in the Farmhouse Ale category, he said, a category of tart, mostly low-alcohol beers that often does not get the attention of more strongly flavored varieties, he said.

Its a style thats really unsung. Its a grisette, not as popular as lagers or IPAs, so we were especially excited to see them recognize a style thats a little more subtle, he said.

Threes Brewing focuses on lagers, farmhouse ales, and sour beers. This year, it also won a bronze medal in the Wild and Sour Ales category, for its Eternal Return: Sauv Blanc brew.

The Passing Time beer is currently available on draft at the brewery, and a new batch of bottles should be available in about two weeks, said Stylman.

Bottled up: The Passing Time beer is a variation of Threes Brewings Table beer, aged slightly longer with added yeast, said co-founder Josh Stylman.

Two other Brooklyn brewers were also winners in this years competition.

Braven Brewing earned a bronze medal in the hotly-contested New England IPA category for its Flashy Ways NEIPA, a brew they submitted at the very last minute, said the brewerys co-founder. As soon as he tasted the beer, he knew he had something special, said Marshall Thompson.

I looked at Eric [Feldman], our co-founder, and said This is best beer weve ever made,  said Thompson. Were super excited about it.

The beer is the first recipe created by Bravens new head brewer, Zach Monard, who previously worked at .

For now, the best place to taste the Flashy Ways is at the Sampler bar and beer store in Bushwick, a few blocks from Bravens upcoming taproom, now planning to open in September.

Sunset Parks Five Boroughs Brewing also took home a bronze medal, in the Belgian-style category for its Quad beer. That brew is currently available in its taproom.

Threes Brewing [333 Douglass St. between Third and Fourth avenues in Gowanus, (718) 5222110, www.three sbrew ing.com ]. $7.

The Sampler [234 Starr St. between Wyckoff and Irving avenues in Bushwick. (718) 2439005, www.thesa mpler bk.com ].

Five Boroughs Brewing [215 47th St. between Second and Third avenues in Sunset Park, (718) 3558575, www.fiveb oroug hs.com ].

Three cheers!: Threes brewing co-founder Justin Israelson offers a sip of the Passing Time farmhouse ale, which won the top prize at this years New York State Craft Beer Competition. Photo by Jordan Rathkopf
The is in discussions with the for a Rs 110 billion bailout package for ailing Air India, sources said.

The discussions come against the backdrop of a failed effort to privatise the loss-making airline, which continues to grapple with financial woes.

Sources in the know said that the is working on a bailout package for the carrier, which would be utilised to reduce high-cost working capital loans.

The proposal, which is at a preliminary stage of discussions, is for providing around Rs 110 billion package to Air India, they added.

"Cleaning up the balance sheet of airline will make it attractive for investors as and when the government decides to once again attempt strategic stake sale of the airline," one of the sources said.

Query sent to Civil Aviation Secretary R N Choubey remained unanswered.

When contacted, an spokesperson said the matter "comes under the domain of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and we should not be commenting on it".

The airline is staying afloat on a bailout package extended by the previous UPA regime in 2012.

The national carrier's debt burden was more than Rs 480 billion at the end of March 2017.

Last month, the government sought Parliament's nod for Rs 9.8 billion as supplementary grants for equity infusion into the airline.



In a reflection of financial crunch at the airline, salaries have been delayed for the staff for five consecutive months.

In the current financial year, the airline has received an equity infusion of Rs 6.5 billion up to June. TAP and a Financial Restructuring Plan (FRP) were approved for by the previous UPA regime in 2012.

All government guaranteed loans and interests thereon are being paid by the government by way of equity infusion into the airline.

Under the FRP, high cost of working capital loans have been converted into long-term debt carrying lesser rates of interest so as to reduce the financial burden on Air India.

"The TAP/ FRP includes budgetary support amounting to Rs 302.31 billion spread over 10 years ie. up to FY 2020-21 and also equity support for the payment of principal/ interest of the non-convertible debentures.

"Air India has received an equity infusion of Rs 272 billion till date," Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha informed the Lok Sabha last month.
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In the few seconds that ads have today to have their say before a viewer turns it off or shuts down the tab, the challenge is to tell a story compelling enough to keep all eyes on the screen. One way a number of brands are finding they can do that is by making heroes out of the invisible common manbe it their own customer, their employees or the humble middleman influencing the final buy.

In more and more advertisements the product has moved off centre-stage. In one of its recent ad films, automaker Hyundai for instance, does not talk about the car, its powerful engines or ...
Paytm is set to go live with its mutual fund distribution platform, Paytm Money, anytime this month. However, mutual fund distributors, which at the last count accounted for Rs 1.8 trillion of industry assets, are confident that there is no need for them to reshuffle their business model and reiterated the importance of timely advice for investors. Those just looking for transaction convenience and parking surplus funds on a temporary basis would get drawn to platforms like Paytm Money. ...

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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Nalco, a central public sector enterprise to have rolled out apps for several stakeholders, believes customized apps can prove to be critical for monitoring business processes and operations in the future, besides being the brand differentiator. Initially, apps shall be used for sharing information with stakeholders. In the coming days, the usage of apps shall be intensified so as to be useful for monitoring of business operations and processes, said T K Chand, ...

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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After marking its entry into Australia earlier this year, Bengaluru-based Ola is now setting its sights on the ride-hailing market in the United Kingdom (UK) and has obtained a licence to operate in South Wales and Greater Manchester regions.

The company plans to start operations in the UK market within the next month, saying it would be the only ride-hailing player there that can legally offer customers both private hire and black cabs on its platform. It plans to further expand its presence across the UK by the end of 2018. Ola is excited to announce its plans for the ...
A cost overrun of Rs 29.28 billion took place in setting up of six new All India Institutes of Medical Science (AIIMS) after the release of allocated Rs 149.7 billion till 2016-17, according to a report released on Tuesday.

The performance audit report of Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY)stated that out of 42 departments in new AIIMS, 6-14 speciality, super-speciality and other departments have not become functional. Shortage of faculty posts in different ranges from 55 per cent to 83 per cent, while for non-faculty posts it is 77 per cent to 97 per cent.

According to the report, only 152 to 546 beds were available against the requirement of 960 beds in each of the six new

"1,318 equipment having estimated cost of Rs 4.54 billion remained undelivered as on March 31 2017 for periods up to 25 months from the due date of delivery," it said, adding that time overrun for the new is about four to five years.



ALSO READ: PM Modi pays visit to Atal Bihari Vajpayee at AIIMS for the third time

The report found that during the second phase of the scheme, land for AIIMS-Raebareli was provided by the Uttar Pradesh government after four years of its approval and AIIMS-Raiganj was deferred to fifth phase after the West Bengal government did not provide land initially.

"The six new AIIMS were holding an unutilised balance of funds of Rs 12.67 billion, while Rs 3.93 billion for civil works and Rs 4.37 billion for procurement of equipment is unspent with the executing agencies," it said.

The PMSSY was announced in August 2003, under which setting up of AIIMS and upgradation of existing State Government Medical Colleges and Institutions (GMCIs) was to be undertaken.



In its first phase, the scheme envisaged setting up six AIIMS-like institutions and upgradation of 13 medical colleges and institutions. Over a period of time, the scheme has been expanded to cover 20 new AIIMS and 71 GMCIs in six phases.
He entered the 50th year as the president of DMK late last month, the longest tenure by a person as head of one of Tamil Nadu's major Dravidian parties. "With deep anguish, we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi on August 7, 2018 at 6.10 p.m. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond," said a release by Chennai's ...

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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has ruled out joining politics and will now focus on her family after her long-innings at the world's second-largest and beverage giant

on Monday announced that its Board of Directors has unanimously elected Ramon Laguarta, 54, to succeed Indian-origin Nooyi as Chief Executive Officer.

Nooyi, 62, will step down on October 3 after 24 years with the company, the last 12 as She will remain Chairman until early 2019 to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

Nooyi's departure in two months will further diminish the already small group of female Fortune 500 CEOs, she is one of just 25, and the even more minuscule ranks of women of colour.

"It concerns me in that we can actually count how many there are, as opposed to saying there are hundreds," she told Fortune in an interview.

Nooyi said in the interview that she did not yet know what she wanted to do next, but added that she would not be running for office.

"I'm not good at politics," the Chennai-born said.

"I'm just a good worker bee", Nooyi, who has not been afraid to get political, said.

After the 2016 US presidential elections, Nooyi had said Democrat Hillary Clinton's loss to Republican left her daughters and PepsiCo's employees devastated and there were serious concerns among the company's workers, especially the non-white employees, about their safety in an with Trump as its

Nooyi said that after her departure from PepsiCo, her focus will be on her family.

Being the of a company is "all-consuming," she said. "When you are the CEO, especially of such a large company, there's only one priority, and that priority is being I think my family was short-changed a lot. The last 24 years, the family always came first."



She added, "Now is the time to shift my priorities to my family."



Nooyi got married in 1980 to Raj Nooyi, of AmSoft Systems. They have two daughters.

According to the Fortune report, before the announcement of Nooyi's exit, PepsiCo's stock was flat year over year and its beverage sales in North had dropped for four consecutive quarters as consumers look for alternatives to soda. Nooyi said that the timing of her departure was unrelated.

"I look at our performance over a long period of time," she said. "The company is in great shape."



Nooyi added that talks about her transition started approximately one year ago as Laguarta was named PepsiCo's last July.

"I've been in the company 24 years, and it's been a labour of love," said Nooyi in the interview. "At some point, you've got to sit back and say, what do I want to do with my life."



An area that interests Nooyi is getting more women into the top echelons of management.

"In many ways, I think after stepping down as CEO I can work with other women to figure out how to get them to c-suite positions and as a mentor and supporter," she said.

There is need to focus on removing barriers to women's progress, she said.

"I see the struggles women go through, and you can not expect every woman to be a superwoman," she said.

"It just doesn't work because there's one constraint we all have, and that's that there are only 24 hours in a day."



Nooyi, one of the world's most powerful and influential leaders, said leading PepsiCo has been the "honour" of her lifetime, and she is "incredibly proud" of all the company has done over the past 12 years to advance the interests of shareholders and stakeholders.

Among the few executives to break the glass ceiling in corporate America, Nooyi had also created history by being among the few India-born females to lead a global giant when she took over the reins at PepsiCo.

Nooyi described the development as a "day of mixed emotions for me".

She said PepsiCo has been "my life for nearly a quarter century and part of my heart will always remain here."



"But I am proud of all we've done to position PepsiCo for success, confident that Ramon and his senior leadership team will continue prudently balancing short-term and long-term priorities, and excited for all the great things that are in store for this company. PepsiCo's best days are still ahead of it," she said yesterday in the company statement.
Nearly a year after introducing it in the Lok Sabha, the government on Tuesday withdrew the (FRDI) Bill following widespread concerns over certain provisions in the proposed legislation.

There have been concerns over the proposed 'bail-in' clause to resolve a failing bank and insurance cover on bank deposits.

The bill was introduced on August 10, 2017 in the House and then referred to the Joint Committee of Parliament.

A proposal to withdraw the bill was today moved by Minister of State for Finance Pon Radhakrishnan and was approved by the House.

Last week, the Committee tabled its report and had agreed with the government's proposal to withdraw the bill.



ALSO READ: Conflicting views between govt and RBI led to withdraw of FRDI Bill

The sought to make an enabling law for creation of an independent resolution corporation to carry out speedy and efficient resolution of financial firms in distress, among others.

Finance Minister Piyush Goyal had informed the committee about various reasons for deciding to withdraw the bill.

The stakeholders, including the public, have raised apprehensions relating to the provisions of the like the use of bail-in instrument to resolve a failing bank and the adequacy of deposit insurance cover, Goyal had told the panel.
Firms doing business with Iran will be barred from the United States, President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, as new US sanctions took effect in spite of pleas from Washington's allies. Iran dismissed a last-minute offer from the Trump administration for talks, saying it could not negotiate while Washington had reneged on a 2015 deal to lift sanctions in return for curbs on Iran's nuclear programme. Trump decided this year to pull out of the agreement, ignoring pleas from the other world powers that had co-sponsored the deal, including Washingtons main ...
US President warned the world against doing business with Iran today as he hailed the "most biting sanctions ever imposed", triggering a mix of anger, fear and defiance in Tehran.

"The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level," Trump wrote on

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less." Within hours of the sanctions taking effect, German carmaker Daimler said it was halting its business activities in Iran.

Trump's May withdrawal from a landmark 2015 nuclear agreement had already spooked investors and triggered a run on the Iranian rial long before nuclear-related sanctions went back into force.

"I feel like my life is being destroyed. Sanctions are already badly affecting people's lives. I can't afford to buy food, pay the rent," said one construction worker on the streets of the capital.

The sanctions reimposed today, which target access to US banknotes and key industries such as cars and carpets, were unlikely to cause immediate economic turmoil.

Iran's markets were actually relatively buoyant, with the rial strengthening by 20 per cent since Sunday after the government relaxed foreign exchange rules and allowed unlimited, tax-free gold and currency imports.

But the second tranche, which kicks in on November 5 and targets Iran's vital oil sector, could be far more damaging -- even if several key customers such as China, India and Turkey have refused to significantly cut their purchases.

In a statement on Monday before the sanctions were reimposed, Trump said he was "open to reaching a more comprehensive deal" with Iran, which covered "its ballistic missile programme and its support for terrorism." But his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani dismissed the idea of talks while crippling sanctions were in effect.

"They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation," Rouhani told state television. "Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense." - 'Legitimate business' -



European governments are infuriated by Trump's strategy, which has prompted many of their large firms to leave Iran for fear of US penalties. Daimler said it had "suspended our already limited activities in Iran in accordance with the applicable sanctions".

British Foreign Office Minister Alastair Burt said that the "Americans have really not got this right".

The nuclear deal was important "not only to the region's security but the world's security," he told the BBC.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters the global reaction to Trump's move showed that the US was diplomatically "isolated". Iran ally Syria branded Washington's move "illegal under law".

"The US administration's policies have a proclivity for hegemony and arrogance," said a foreign ministry official, quoted by state news agency SANA.

Russia's foreign ministry said it was "deeply disappointed" by the return of sanctions, adding that it would do "everything necessary" to save the 2015 nuclear deal.

Zarif today welcomed to Tehran his North Korean counterpart, Ri Yong Ho, as Pyongyang also faces US pressure to scrap its nuclear capabilities.

Most Iranians see US hostility as a basic fact of life, so their frustration is largely directed at their own leaders for not handling the situation better. "Prices are rising again, but the reason is government corruption, not US sanctions," said Ali, a 35-year-old decorator in Tehran.

Long-running discontent over high prices, unemployment, water shortages and the lack of political reform has sparked numerous protests over the past week, though verifiable information is scarce due to heavy reporting restrictions.

Many hope and believe that Iran's leaders will "drink the poison cup" and negotiate with the US eventually.

There have been rumours that Trump and Rouhani could meet in New York in September on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly -- though Rouhani reportedly rejected US overtures for a meeting at last year's event. Two countries that have welcomed the tough new US policy are Iran's regional rivals, Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the renewed sanctions as "an important moment for Israel, for the US, for the region, for the whole world." Iran's currency has lost around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the nuclear pact.

But the last two days have seen the rial's value surge by a fifth following the arrest of the central bank's currency chief and new plans being announced.

The new rules mean foreign exchange bureaus will reopen after a disastrous attempt to fix the value of the rial in April backfired spectacularly, with corrupt traders making a fortune out of a mushrooming black market.
An Indian-origin man has pleaded guilty to taking $2.5 million in bribes and kickbacks from companies seeking contracts to work on energy-saving projects in the US government buildings.

Bhaskar Patel, 67, of Windermere, Florida, received the bribes and kickbacks when he served as a senior project manager for Building Americas, based in Andover, Massachusetts.

He was responsible for obtaining bids from subcontractors and recommending for selection the subcontractors that would be awarded a contract under an energy-saving project.

The payments were associated with federal energy savings performance contracts issued to by various federal agencies from June 6, 2011, to April 19, 2016.

He pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court in Rutland to two felony charges, each carrying maximum penalties of 10 years in prison. He remains free on his personal recognizance pending a December 7 sentencing hearing.

Judge Geoffrey Crawford said federal probation officials would conduct a pre-sentence investigation before he formally hands down a sentence for Patel.

As part of a plea agreement, federal prosecutors filed a notice of forfeiture totalling $2,536,119 from Patel, VT Digger, a Vermont news portal, reported.

The plea agreement states that prosecutors have agreed to reduce the forfeiture amount to $1.75 million if Patel pays $950,000 on or before his sentencing.

He also faces fines of up to $5,072,238.38, or twice his ill-gotten gains.

Among the items federal prosecutors are seeking to seize as part of the forfeiture are his property in Windermere; a 2012 Mercedes-Benz E Class E350 vehicle; a watch; six rings; 43 earrings; 10 bracelets; 18 bangles; six pendants, USD 35,700 in Indian rupees; and a timeshare property in Hilton Head, South Carolina, the portal reported.

Assistant US Attorney Abigail Averbach, a prosecutor in the case, said charges against other individuals involved in the case are possible, though she declined to say who those people might be.

Court records do indicate that in some cases Patel directed those paying him to write checks to his adult son and daughter. His children are only identified in court papers as "JP" and "FP".

David Smith, a spokesman for Schneider Electric, said after the hearing that Patel was terminated as soon as the allegations of wrongdoing came to light.

Patel's scheme came to light when law enforcement received information that he had altered and falsified a bid document submitted to by a Vermont subcontractor bidding for work on an energy savings project at the White River Junction VA facility, according to court records.
Israeli Prime Minister has hailed President for re-imposing sanctions on Iran.

"I congratulate President Trump and the government on the important decision to re-impose sanctions on Iran," Netanyahu said in a statement on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Netanyahu, a vocal opponent of the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, called the renewed sanctions "an important moment for Israel, the US, the region, and the entire world."

The move "symbolizes the determination to curb Iran's regional aggression and its ongoing plans to arm itself with nuclear weapons," he said.

Netanyahu, who has accused Iran of secretly attempting to develop nuclear weapons, also urged European countries to follow Trump's move.

"It's time to stop talking. It's time to do. That's exactly what the United States did and that's what Europe needs to do," Netanyahu said.

Trump signed on Monday an executive order to re-impose a number of sanctions on Iran, saying the policy is to impose "maximum economic pressure" on the Islamic republic.

The move came three months after Trump withdrew from the Iranian nuclear deal.

In 2015, Iran signed a landmark pact with six world powers, in which the West promises to relieve sanctions on Tehran in exchange for a halt in Iran's controversial nuclear programme.

Iran has repeatedly denied any attempts to develop nuclear arms after the nuke accord.
Donald Trump has been urged to stop tweeting about the 2016 meeting between his top advisers and several Russians, a media report said.

The President was advised that his tweeting only gives oxygen to the topic, even if those around Trump do not believe there is any truly new development, an informed source told CNN on Monday.

On Sunday, Trump tweeted an apparent response to stories by CNN and The Washington Post that said he was worried about his son 's legal exposure following the 2016 meeting.

Calling the reported concerns a "complete fabrication", the President acknowledged that the meeting was accepted on the premise that his son would get dirt on former presidential hopeful

"This was a meeting to get information on an opponent, totally legal and done all the time in politics - and it went nowhere. I did not know about it!" the President tweeted.

The President's Sunday move about the purpose behind the 2016 meeting was the latest step in the long-evolving story from him, and the President's legal team.

initially responded to the first revelations about the meeting by releasing a misleading statement claiming the meeting primarily concerned Russian adoption policy.

As more details emerged, he released a new statement acknowledging there was an offer of potentially damaging information on Clinton and the Democratic Party, and he eventually published emails about the meeting.
Do you know why you instantly recall the smell of apple pie prepared way back by your grandmother as you walk into her kitchen? There is a scientific reason behind it.

Researchers have now discovered the mechanism behind how smells that one has experienced in the past have contributed in the formation of memories -- suggesting a novel perspective on the way senses are represented in

The findings may explain why the loss of the ability to smell has been recognised as an early symptom of Alzheimer's disease and can offer opportunities for improved smell tests in Alzheimer's disease diagnosis.

"Our findings demonstrate for the first time how smells we've encountered in our lives are recreated in memory," said lead author Afif Aqrabawi from the University of Toronto.

"In other words, we have discovered how you are able to remember the smell of your grandma's apple pie when walking into her kitchen," Aqrabawi added.

For the study, published in the journal Nature Communications, the team examined the strong connection between and olfaction -- the process of smelling and recognising odours in the mice.

They found that information about space and time integrate within a region of the brain important for the sense of smell known as the anterior olfactory nucleus (AON).

While examining the function of AON, the team uncovered a previously unknown neural pathway between it and the hippocampus -- a structure critical for and contextual representation, and highly implicated in Alzheimer's disease.

Mice whose hippocampus-AON connection was left intact, refrained from returning to familiar locations to sniff odours that were no longer novel whereas those with a disconnected pathway returned to sniff previously smelled odours for longer periods of time.

"They prefer to spend more time smelling a new odour than one that's familiar to them. When they lose this preference, it's implied they no longer remember the smell even though they have sniffed it before, so they continue to smell something as if for the first time," said Aqrabawi.

"...we now understand which circuits in the brain govern the episodic memory for smell. The circuit can now be used as a model to study fundamental aspects of human episodic memory and the odour memory deficits seen in neurodegenerative conditions," he added.
The Bangladesh Government on Monday approved the draft of the Road Transport Act 2018, extending the punishment for rash driving deaths.

The decision was taken to pacify the agitated students, who were protesting over the deaths of two college students, killed by a speeding bus in Dhaka on July 29.

According to the new law, traffic offenders will be punished with a penalty of five years' of non-bailable imprisonment as compared to the country's existing transport law that entitled the maximum penalty of three years behind bars with the provision of bail.

As per reports, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led Government has also promised to consider capital punishment for fatal road accidents.

The draft of the road transport law was approved at a cabinet meeting chaired by the Bangladesh Prime Minister, Xinhua reported. "Under the new law, a convict will get the maximum punishment if he or she causes death or severe injury via reckless driving or negligence in driving. These offences are also non-bailable," Dhaka Tribune quoted Cabinet Secretary Mohammad Shafiul Alam as saying.

The countrywide student protests had paralysed Dhaka for the past nine days as a large number of students took to the streets, demanding improved road safety and stricter enforcement of traffic laws. Dozens of students also got injured by the police in clashes ever since the protests began, according to several media reports.

The two students, killed in the bus accident were identified as Abdul Karim Rajib (18) and Dia Khanam Mim (17) of Dhaka's Shaheed Ramiz Uddin Cantonment College.

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It turns out that Bollywood filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali will not be directing Priyanka Chopra in his upcoming gangster movie.

Reportedly, there have been rumours about Priyanka quitting Bhansali's upcoming movie based on the life of a female gangster, 'Gangubai Kothewali'.

And, the filmmaker's spokesperson also confirmed that Bhansali was not in talks with Priyanka for any such project.

"Sanjay Bhansali has a lot of love and regard for Priyanka Chopra, however, no such film has been discussed," confirmed Bhansali's spokesperson.

The comments come after Priyanka decided to walk out of Abbas Zafar's 'Bharat', which star Salman Khan as the male lead.

On the work front, the 'Mary Kom' star had earlier worked with Bhansali in 'Bajirao Mastaani'.

Priyanka will next be seen in Hollywood movies 'Cowboy Ninja Viking' and 'Isn't it Romantic'; while in Bollywood, she will play a major role in Shonali Bose's directorial debut 'The Sky is Pink'.

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Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Ananth Kumar on Tuesday said that the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold scores of rallies, from August 15 to August 30, to give an account to people about the policies and schemes they have introduced for the development of the backward classes since 2014.

Kumar also added that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-government will celebrate 'Samajik Nyay Saptah' from August 1 to August 9 every year. The programme will highlight the moves undertaken by the Centre to curb the menaces such as social discrimination and violence against the backward classes.

"During the meeting, PM Modi said that the BJP will celebrate 'Samajik Nyay Diwas' every year, from August 15 to August 30. These two weeks will talk about the initiatives undertaken by the government for the development of the Backward classes and poor," he said.

The decision from the PM Modi came just a day after the Parliament passed an SC/ST Atrocity Law and made efforts to convert Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) an autonomous body.

Elaborating further on the BJP's achievement, Kumar stated, "Giving nod for restoring the SC/ST Atrocity Law in the lower house is one of the historic decisions taken by the party. We thank PM Modi for the success. If you remember, PM Modi in his first meeting in 2014 had announced that the government's main focus will be on easing the lives of backward classes and poor. Today, we can say confidently say that we have accomplished the goal," he said.

The Lok Sabha, on Monday, unanimously passed the law with provisions for stricter guidelines, like no bail for anyone accused of atrocities on SC/STs and non-requirement of an inquiry for registering a criminal case and beginning a probe.

Opposition leaders recently have also urged the government to promulgate a law that can provide reservation to the upper caste poor on the basis of economic conditions.

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Bombay High Court on Tuesday rejected 1993 serial blasts convict Abu Salem's plea, where he sought a 45-day parole to get married.

On April 21, Navi Mumbai Commissioner rejected Salem's parole application, which he applied for his marriage.

Salem had sought parole for 45 days to get married for the second time.

The gangster is serving a life sentence in jail after being convicted in the 1993 Mumbai blasts that had killed 257 and injured 713 people. He has also been sentenced to seven years rigorous imprisonment in 2002 extortion case by Delhi Court.

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Bombay High Court will on Tuesday hear matter filed by 1993 serial blasts convict Abu Salem, where he has sought a 45-day parole to get married.

On April 21, Navi Mumbai Commissioner rejected Salem's parole application, which he applied for his marriage.

Salem had sought parole for 45 days to get married for the second time.

The gangster is serving a life sentence in jail after being convicted in the 1993 Mumbai blasts that had killed 257 and injured 713 people. He has also been sentenced to seven years rigorous imprisonment in 2002 extortion case by Delhi Court.

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A Brazilian judge has directed authorities to close the border for Venezuelan nationals entering Brazil, to escape from their country's political and economic crisis.

Federal Judge Helder Barreto ordered the shutting of the border in the northern Brazilian state of Roraima. He said that the entry of the Venezuelans should be suspended immediately until the "state could achieve an equilibrium between the arrival of migrants and their exit to other parts of Brazil", Voice of America(VOA) reported.

Roraima Governor Suely Campos, who is backing the court order, said that he had been asking the Brazilian Supreme Court to shut the border.

According to state officials, an estimated 500 Venezuelans migrants enter Brazil every day, and most of them stay in Roraima. In the last three years, tens of thousands of Venezuelans are estimated to be residing in Roraima, as per the VOA report.

Even Brazilian President Michel Temer asserted several times that Brazil's border with Venezuela would not be blocked.

Since 2015, over one million people have left Venezuela to flee from the economic and political turmoil plaguing the country.

While most Venezuelans have also fled to Colombia, authorities there and elsewhere in other South American countries have been keeping a strict vigil at the borders.

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After the Tamil Nadu government denied burial space for Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president M. Karunanidhi near the Anna Memorial at Marina beach, a violence broke out outside Kauvery Hospital demanding the same.

DMK supporters turned violent and ransacked police barricades outside the hospital to which Chennai police resorted to lathi-charge. Many cadres outside Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence also chanted,"We want Marina!".

Karunanidhi's body has left for his Gopalapuram residence, where it will stay till 1:00 am, following which it will remain at his daughter, Kanimozhi's CIT Colony residence till 4:00 am.

Meanwhile, Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad expressed his condolence over the demise of Karunanidhi and called the Tamil Nadu government to not play in connection with the same.

"I express my deep condolences on the sad demise of Karunanidhi ji. Today, we have lost one of the great leaders of the country. He is respected all over the country. I pay my homage to him. It's a personal loss to me," Azad said while speaking to reporters here.

"The government of Tamil Nadu should not play On such occasions, government and parties should be above Kalaignar should be given his due. He deserves rightful place even after his demise," he added.

Azad also confirmed that Congress President Rahul Gandhi along with other party leaders would be leaving for Chennai tomorrow.

Amid the ruckus, Madras High Court acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G. Ramesh agreed to hear a case against denial of burial land by the Tamil Nadu government for Karunanidhi at around 10:30 pm today.

The Kalaignar's body will then be taken to the Rajaji Memorial for people to pay their last respects. The five-time chief minister passed away on Tuesday after a prolonged illness. He was 94.

Tamil Nadu's Kalaignar breathed his last at Kauvery Hospital, where he was undergoing treatment for a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). He is survived by three wives and six children.

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The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) declared the final list of results of the recently-concluded general elections while holding back the victory notification for two constituencies of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairman Imran Khan.

According to the Dawn, the notification for results of 14 other constituencies has also not been announced due to various reasons.

The notification for NA-53 (Islamabad-II) and NA-131 (Lahore-IX) has been withheld by the ECP, while Khan's success is officially declared in the other three constituencies he contested elections from including NA-35 (Bannu), NA-95 (Mianwali-I) and NA-243 (Karachi East-II).

It is noted that ECP has held back the notification of his success from NA-53 (Islamabad-II) constituency, where Khan defeated former Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi.

The notification of success is being withheld by ECP due to the alleged act of violation of model code of conduct by Khan in the recently-concluded elections.

Last month, the ECP had issued a notice to Khan since he violated the secrecy of the ballot when he allegedly cast his vote in NA-53 constituency while surrounded by friends and supporters.

This comes after PTI nominated Khan as the premier candidate for Prime Minister of the country on Monday.

The PTI emerged as the single largest party with 116 seats after the ECP on July 28 released the complete preliminary results for 270 of 272 National Assembly (NA) constituencies.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) which won 64 seats came second, while the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) bagged 43 seats and finished third.

Pakistan went to polls on July 25 and the counting of votes began soon thereafter in the evening, which was marred by tedious counting and allegations of rigging by major political parties, including the PML-N and PPP.

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Finway Capital, a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) that assures 24 hours of Turn Around Time (TAT), is now backed by 100+ financial institutions to provide its customers a holistic range of financial solutions, including secured and unsecured loans and insurances.

With a mission of empowering people financially, the Delhi-based organisation is committed to hassle-free lending to small businesses and salaried employees through a digitally robust system.

Along with this, the company's Financial Literacy Programs on its YouTube Channel have become a massive hit among the masses, which is aimed to educate them all with the dos and don'ts of dealing with any financial tool.

"So far, we have 8000+ satisfied customers and we are witnessing 20 percent month on month growth. In the first quarter of the fiscal year, 2018-2019, Finway Capital achieved 14 crores loan book value and the company intends to cross it up to 35 crores by the end of the current fiscal year," said founder and CEO, Finway Capital, Rachit Chawla.

He added that it is easy for borrowers to get the much-needed credit through simple documentation and processing at the Finway Capital.

"All the growth strategies are in line with our vision of becoming the most competent, honest and transparent Financial Services company of India for individuals and SME's," added Chawla.

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For those who have been waiting to get a taste of Google's latest sweet treat, the Android 9.0 P or Android 9.0 Pie is officially rolling out to the Pixel and Pixel 2 smartphones.

As is the case, the latest Android OS becomes available to the newest Pixel devices first before rolling out to other Android smartphones. The latest version is powered by Artificial Intelligence to provide the user with a smarter and intuitive experience.

In addition to Google's own devices, Android Pie will also be available on partner brands' devices including Sony, Xiaomi, HMD Global, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus, Essential, and some Android One devices by the end of this fall.

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Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday said that the state will decide on the resigtration of the illegal immigarnts, after the issue is taken up by the Central Government.

"A decision regarding this will be taken at the Central level. After that we will act, as and when the states are directed. A registration of such kind should also be done at the level," Khattar told media.

The Bharatiya Janata Party and the opposition parties had clashes over the NRC draft issue.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee went a step ahead and warned of 'bloodbath' if NRC is implemented. She also predicted a civil war kind of situation.

The final draft, which was released on July 30, included names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants, in Assam. It left out names of nearly 40 lakh people. The list has been updated for the first time since 1951, to account for illegal migration from nearby Bangladesh.

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A Special Court of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday rejected the discharge pleas of former Gujarat Police officers, DG Vanzara and NK Amin, in connection with the Ishrat Jahan alleged fake encounter case. Both Vanzara and Amin are out on bail at present.

Vanzara, the former Gujarat Deputy Inspector General, and Amin, former Superintendent of Police, had filed application following the discharge of ex-Director General of Police PP Pandey from the case in February this year due to lack of evidence. Vanzara had sought discharge on the ground of parity with PP Pandey.

However, Special CBI Judge, JK Pandey, while rejecting the applications said that their case was different from that of PP Pandey. "The magnitude of crime in both cases is different," the Judge observed while rejecting the discharge pleas of Vanzara and Amin. He further said that a clarity was needed on the process of sanction. He fixed the next date of hearing on September 7 when charges would be framed against the two officers.

Reacting to the rejection, Amin who in his discharge application had stated that the encounter was genuine, told media: "We have not read the order in total. Why the judge took a discriminatory view is not clear to us. We will study the order and take further course of action."

He added, "What I could read through the order was only that the agency has been directed to seek the sanction and we are the officers, who could have never been prosecuted without the sanction. There was discrimination between the IB officer and Gujarat police officer. So, that was the point that the honourable court would have focused on. We will follow the due course of law."

Last month, the court concluded hearing arguments of the two police officers, CBI and Ishrat's mother Shamima Kauser, who had challenged Vanzara's discharge applications.

Ishrat, a 19-year-old girl of Mumbai, and three others - Javed Shaikh alias Pranesh Pillai, Amjadali Akbarali Rana and Zeeshan Johar were killed in an alleged encounter with the police on the outskirts of Ahmedabad on June 15, 2004.

It was claimed by the Gujarat Police, that the four had terror links and had conspired to kill the then Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi.

A High Court-constituted-Special Investigative team (SIT) had concluded that it was a fake encounter, after which the court transferred the case to the CBI that filed a charge sheet against seven police officers in the case.

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The Islamabad High Court (IHC) will resume the hearing on the transfer of former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif's remaining corruption cases - Al-Azizia and Flagship Investment to another court.

Sharif's legal counsel had filed a plea requesting the court to transfer the two cases from one Accountability Court to another Accountability Court, Geo News reported.

Accountability Judge-I Mohammad Bashir has been hearing the Al-Azizia and Flagship reference cases for the last 10 months. Also, the Sharif family had filed an appeal against their convictions in connection to the Avenfield reference case.

A two-member bench, comprising Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb, would hear the above cases.

Yesterday, National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor Sardar Muzaffar Abbasi asserted that the transfer of the corruption references against the Sharif was not possible post-indictment, as per the Geo News report.

During the proceedings, Justice Aurangzeb noted that the evidence against the Sharif family was interrelated in all three corruption cases.

"How can these interrelated facts be separated? This case is not ordinary in nature. It cannot be compared to the cases we hear on a daily basis," he observed.

In the last hearing on July 18, Sharif's legal counsel Khawaja Haris had reiterated his reservations about the same judge hearing the proceedings of all the three corruption cases against the Sharif family.

The Accountability Court judge replied that he wrote the matter to the IHC and added that transferring the case from one court to another court did not come under his jurisdiction.

On July 17, The IHC cancelled the bail requests of Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and son-in-law Captain (retd) Muhammad Safdar, in connection to the Avenfield properties case.

On July 6, Sharif and Maryam were convicted in absentia in the Avenfield reference case by the Accountability Court. While the former was given ten years of imprisonment and slapped with a fine of eight million pounds, Maryam was awarded eight years in jail and fined two million pounds. Also, Safdar was given a one-year sentence without any fine.

While Sharif and his UK-based sons, Hussain Nawaz and Hasan Nawaz are named in all the three corruption cases - Avenfield reference, Flagship Investment and Al-Azizia reference, Maryam and Safdar are only named in the Avenfield case.

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Jammu and Kashmir policeman Ashiq Ahmed Lone was shot at by militants in South Kashmir's Tral on Tuesday, after which he was shifted to the district hospital for treatment.

Lone, who was posted as a Special Police Officer, was shot on his leg in Tral's Pastuna village.

His condition is said to be stable.

The incident comes three days after two security personnel sustained minor injuries in a grenade attack by terrorists on a Central Reserve Police Force party deployed at State Bank of India (SBI) branch at Lal Chowk in Anantnag district.

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Amid demand for Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) patriarch M Karunanidhi's memorial at Marina beach, Doraisamy, the advocate who filed a petition against burial on Marina beach on Tuesday withdrew all the cases saying that "Kalainger Karunanidhi was very important".

"I withdraw all cases in this regard because Kalaignar Karunanidhi is important for us. So now, there are no legal hurdles for the government," Doraisamy told the media.

The Tamil Nadu Government earlier denied burial space for Karunanidhi near Anna Memorial at Marina beach. Following this, the DMK moved the Madras High Court demanding the same.

Scores of Karunanidhi's supporters and party workers in Rameshwaram also raised slogan "Long live our Kalaignar's fame. Give Place, Give Place: Give Place at Marina". They also created ruckus at some places, demanding space for Karunanidhi's memorial at Marina beach.

The five-time Tamil Nadu chief minister breathed his last on Tuesday at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital.

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The ruling government in Karnataka has decided to observe a day-long state mourning in view of the death of former Tamil Nadu chief minister and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) patriarch M Karunanidhi.

'Kalaignar' breathed his last on Tuesday evening after a prolonged illness.

Soon after, Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy condoled the death of the "living legend."

"He (Karunanidhi) strived for the development of Tamil Nadu throughout his life and built a stronghold for the DMK. I had met him several times. Every time he made me understand the importance of regional parties. In his death, we have lost a unique personality in Indian Tamil Nadu has lost a visionary leader," he said.

Karnataka's tribute for the five-time chief minister Karunanidhi comes at a time when the two states have been at loggerheads over the sharing of waters from the river Cauvery.

The state government has also temporarily suspended its bus services following his death to avoid any untoward incidents.

Prominent leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi, will fly to Chennai on Wednesday to pay homage to the DMK Chief.

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A habeas corpus petition has been filed before the Supreme Court seeking an urgent hearing against the alleged torture meted out to social activist Talib Hussain by Jammu and Kashmir police, in connection with the alleged Kathua rape and murder case.

The Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dipak Misra is likely to hear the matter on Wednesday.

The petitioner claimed, when Hussain was helping the family members of the Kathua victim, the police allegedly picked him up and there was no information as to where he is at present.

Hussain is a social activist, who led an agitation seeking justice for the family of the eight-year-old victim.

The eight-year-old girl, belonging to a nomadic Muslim tribe, was abducted, drugged, gang-raped, tortured and killed in January.

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Three fishermen were killed after a ship collided with a boat, carrying around 14 fishermen, at the Munamban harbour of Ernakulam district in Kerala.

While two victims were saved by fishermen nearby, nine others are still missing. The incident took place in the wee hours of Tuesday, approximately 24 nautical miles (44Kms) away from the shore.

The Directorate General of Shipping has been informed about the incident. The Joint Operation Centre in Kochi, under the Southern Naval Command, is monitoring the entire situation.

Superintendent of Police (rural) Rahul R Nair said, "Coast Guard, Navy vessels, and helicopters are on a lookout. So far, two bodies have been recovered. We are yet to identify the nine missing people."

The rescue operation is underway, while the Navy has already diverted a Sea King helicopter in the air to proceed to the spot for the search and rescue of survivors. A Dornier aircraft has also been launched to look around the entire area.

Meanwhile, Indian Coast Guard has also diverted an interceptor boat and a ship to the area.

In addition to this, another Dornier aircraft is getting airborne in order to investigate the merchant ships, which were present in the area at the time of the collision.

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The Supreme Court on Tuesday held Assam co-coordinator of the Register for Citizens (NRC) Prateek Hajela and Registrar General of India guilty of contempt of court.

The top court also reprimanded both Hajela and the Registrar General of India for making statements to media on the NRC Assam modalities when nothing had been informed to the court.

The Court said, "You are guilty (Assam NRC Coordination and Registrar General of India) of contempt of court. Why Hajela and the Registrar General made any statements to media on NRC Assam modalities when nothing had been informed to the court."

On July 30, the second draft that was released included names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants in Assam. It left out names of nearly 40 lakh people.

On July 31, the court while hearing the case observed that the process of filing objections by those whose names were not listed in the NRC draft should be fair.

A division bench of the top court, headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi, also directed the Centre to prepare standard operating procedure (SOP) for claims and objections.

The court had directed Hajela and the central government to submit before the court the process or modalities they would follow to file the objections.

The first draft of the NRC for Assam was released on the intervening night of December 31, 2017 and January 1 which included names of 1.9 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants.

The NRC draft for Assam features the names, addresses and photographs of all Indian citizens who have been residing in the northeastern state before March 25, 1971.

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Ride sharing platform Ola on Tuesday announced its plans to enter into the United Kingdom (UK) market with operations starting from South Wales and Greater Manchester.

With a new service offering to the UK market, the world's largest ride-hailing company, which obtained its licences to operate in South Wales and Greater Manchester, will begin its launch operations in South Wales within the next month.

With this expansion, Ola will be the only ride-hailing app in the UK that offers passengers the option of PHVs and Black Cabs through one consumer-friendly platform, which in the future will see additional transportation options incorporated for greater passenger choice.

Adding to this, the company will also work with local authorities across the UK to expand nationwide by end of 2018.

"Ola is excited to announce its plans for the UK, one of the world's most evolved transportation markets. The UK is a fantastic place to do and we look forward to providing a responsible, compelling, new service that can help the country meet its ever demanding mobility needs," said co-founder and CEO Ola, Bhavish Aggarwal on the expansion.

He added that the company will look forward to the continued engagement with policymakers and regulators as expansion across the country, and build a company embedded in the UK.

Earlier in February, Ola marked its successful launch in Australia, where it operates in seven major cities with over 40,000 drivers. The aggregator commenced its operations in Adelaide following successful launches in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

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The Opposition leaders staged a protest on Tuesday in Parliament over alleged rape cases and ill-treatment of girls in Bihar's Muzaffarpur and Uttar Pradesh's Deoria districts shelter homes respectively.

Those who participated in the protest included members of Parliament (MPs) from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Communist Party of India (CPI).

SP MP Dimple Yadav was seen holding a placard which read 'Implement slogan of Save Girl' and raised slogans against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led governments in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh over the safety of women. Yadav is wife of former UP chief minister Akhilesh Yadav.

Speaking to ANI, Dimple Yadav said, "Whosoever is responsible should be punished. Deoria is under Gorakhpur Mandal, so we want the government to reveal that who all are reponsible."

Leaders from SP, RJD and CPI raised slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar over their failure in maintaining law and order in the two states and safety of women.

Several leaders from the Opposition such as Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo Arvind Kejriwal and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav held a rally at Jantar Mantar in the capital on Sunday to protest against the Muzaffarpur shelter home alleged rapes.

The alleged Muzaffarpur shelter home rape case has put Nitish Kumar government in Bihar under the spotlight. So far, 11 employees of the shelter home have been arrested and 44 girls rescued. The shelter home was run by Brajesh Thakur, the prime accused in the case who is behind bars now. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken charge of the case now.

In the Deoria shelter home case, the Uttar Pradesh police on Sunday arrested a couple and rescued 24 girls from there after an inmate escaped and informed the police about the alleged ill-treatment meted out to them. She complained that the inmates of the shelter home were treated like servants. Both the man and his wife were managers at the shelter home. Earlier, the CBI had revoked the license of the shelter home following an inspection.

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The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) will notify the newly-elected members of the national and provincial assemblies today.

Geo News quoted sources saying that a summary of issuing notifications to the new candidates has been sent to the chief election commissioner of the ECP.

The candidates' notifications in the constituencies would be withheld if it is being challenged in the courts. The notifications would then be issued after the respective courts clear up the matter and verdict have been announced.

Similarly, in the current political scenario notifications of the newly-elected candidates from over 30 seats have been withheld. Elections were also deferred on two National Assembly (NA) seats and six of provincial assemblies, as per the Geo News report.

Polls for these constituencies is expected to be held within 60 days after the candidates of national and provincial assemblies take the oath. After the polls have been completed from all the constituencies, that were delayed earlier, the ECP would then issue the final list of the positions of all political parties.

After the notification of all successful candidates, new assembly sessions would be called. Candidates will also elect the prime minister of Pakistan and the speaker of the House after taking the oath.

Pakistan went to polls on July 25 and Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party had emerged as the single largest party with 116 seats, after the ECP released the complete results for 270 of 272 NA constituencies.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) which won 64 seats came second, while the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) bagged 43 seats and finished third.

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The Parliament on Monday passed the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018 which ensures stringent punishment for those convicted of raping girls below 12 years of age.

The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha last month and on Monday it was unanimously passed in Rajya Sabha by voice vote.

After the bill was passed in the Parliament, Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju told ANI, "Both houses of the Parliament have passed Criminal Law Amendment Bill and now we will ensure that this act takes effect in the manner in which it has been envisaged. There are various other steps taken to ensure speedy trial."

The bill will now replace the Criminal Law Ordinance, promulgated by President Ram Nath Kovind on April 22. In the light of an increase in incidents of rape of minors, the Union Cabinet on April 21 approved a number of measures to amend the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018 stipulates a minimum jail term of 20 years which may go up to life in prison or death sentence, for the rape of a girl under 12 years. While perpetrators involved in the gangrape of a girl below 12 years of age will get life imprisonment or death.

In case of rape of a girl below 16 years, the minimum punishment has been increased from 10 to 20 years and it is extendable to life imprisonment. The punishment for the gang-rape of a girl below 16 years of age will invariably be imprisonment for the rest of the life of the convict.

The cabinet also decided to put in place a number of measures for speedy investigation and trial of rape cases. It has also provided for a six-month time limit for disposal of appeals in rape cases.

As per the bill, fast-track special courts will be set up to exclusively deal with rape cases. Apart from this, only a woman judge will hear the rape case and a woman police officer will record the statement of rape victims.

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'Pretty little liars' actor Troian Bellisario and 'Suits' star Patrick J. Adams are expecting their first child.

According to a report by E! Online, Bellisario is not comfortable with posting pregnancy photos on social media and has kept a relatively low profile.

The couple got engaged in 2014 followed by a wedding near California's central coast in 2016.

Adams left 'Suits' at the end of season 7 to spend more time with his wife. He said that his work kept him away from home for 8 years, US Weekly reported.

The real-life couple was last spotted together in London attending Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal wedding and have worked together in the 2017 sci-fi film 'Clara'.

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Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for remaining tightlipped on crimes against women and children in the country.

Addressing at the 'Mahila Adhikar Sammelan' in Talkatora Stadium here, Rahul said, "The Prime Minister speaks on everything, but does not utter a word when crimes are committed against women in Uttar Pradesh and other Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ruled states. No action is taken against the accused if he is a member of their party."

Continuing his tirade against Prime Minister Modi, Rahul asserted that the former never said anything on the alarming rise of rape incidents.

"The PM doesn't utter a word on the incidents of rape. What happened against women in these four years is something, which didn't happen even in last 70 years," the Congress President said.

Taunting the BJP-led government on their 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' initiative, Rahul said, "They talk a lot, but the Women's Reservation Bill is long pending. Congress told them clearly that the entire party will stand by them the day they decide to pass it. They said 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao'. I fail to understand whose daughter do they want to save. The daughters need to be saved from these BJP MLAs."

Furthermore, Rahul blasted out at Prime Minister's Modi remark on MNREGA scheme, saying that millions of women in the country were benefitted from the programme.

"Millions of women benefitted from MNREGA. But Prime Minister Modi mocks this scheme in Parliament and claims no one benefited from it," he said.

Talking about women empowerment, Rahul underlined that the Congress was aiming to reserve representations to 50 per cent in all spheres. He urged all women in the country to come forward and contribute to the development of the nation.

Taking on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for its ideology on women empowerment, Rahul said, "The Congress has always welcomed women, unlike the RSS which has shut doors for women in the country forever. The ideology of BJP and RSS is that only the men will run this country and if it is anywhere that the women belong, it is at the back."

He added that there was no place for women in the country to join the RSS.

Rahul continued, "In RSS, a woman is not allowed to go. She could not go before, cannot go now and would not go forever."

Summing up, the Congress president said the ideologies of RSS, BJP and Prime Minister Modi ravaged the country.

Lauding women Chief Ministers for playing a big role in development and leadership, Rahul further said, "We've seen the work done by women Chief Ministers like Shiela Dikshit who transformed Delhi. We need women at every level of leadership within and outside the Congress Party.

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Uttar Pradesh Women and Child Welfare Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi on Tuesday blamed the former governments in the state for all the irregularities that took place in the shelter homes.

Addressing the media here, Joshi said, "Those parties are turning this matter into a political one, under whose regime these shelter homes grew."

She further assured that state Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is monitoring the situation and said that culprits will not be spared.

"It was either negligence or connivance, it will be decided when the reports come in. CM is monitoring this. He is very firm that those responsible will not be spared," she added.

On Sunday, the police had rescued 24 girls from a shelter home in eastern Uttar Pradesh's Deoria and arrested a couple, who were running the facility. The incident came to light after a girl escaped from the shelter house and informed police about the ill-treatment given to the inmates.

The chief minister ordered the removal of Deoria's District Magistrate (DM) Sujit Kumar and suspension of former district police officers (DPOs) Neeraj Kumar and Abhishek Pandey for not taking action on shutting down the shelter house.

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Dal Khalsa, a Punjab-based radical political group, which has for years been advocating, supporting and campaigning for a separate homeland for the people of Punjab, has termed 'Refrendum 2020' merely an opinion poll being conducted amongst the Sikhs living abroad.

The statement came in the run up to an event scheduled to be held at Trafalgar square in London on August 12, 2018. The event is being organised by a United States-based Sikh separatist organisation -- Sikhs for Justice - that would be issuing 'London Declaration' for referendum on the Indian state of Punjab.

In a statement filled with disappointment and pessimism, Kanwarpal Singh, the spokesperson of Dal Khalsa told ANI: "The proposal for the 'Referendum 2020' by Sikhs for Justice is not a referendum in real sense. It is a survey or an opinion poll to see how many Sikhs or Punjabi diaspora are in favour of separate Sikh state or sovereign state of Punjab so you cannot call it real referendum. The real referendum is conducted under the aegis of either United Nations or is conducted by the occupied (occupying) country and in this case, both are not involved -- neither the United Nations nor the Indian government. So at best it can be termed as an exercise to guess the mood or the opinion of the Sikhs living outside India or the Sikh diaspora." He added the event had not garnered any support from the people and groups of Punjab as they were not taken in loop before such a decision was taken.

Making a direct statement at Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief organiser of the event, Kanwarpal Singh said that Punjabis were the principal stakeholders in any kind of referendum pertaining to Punjab.

"He should take people of Punjab in confidence and it is important to take Punjab's group in confidence because it is Punjab's referendum and people of Punjab must participate in it. So he has an onus to come forward and win the confidence of the people of Punjab and the groups who have been spearheading the campaign for last forty years in Punjab." Kanwarpal Singh said

On being asked about his organisation's position on 'Sikhs for Justice' event, he said that they had found the actions of SFJ slightly ambiguous and had sought a straightforward reply as to how they were going to achieve their objectives without considering the opinion of people of Punjab.

"As far as Dal Khalsa is concerned, we have certain reservations, which we have conveyed to Gurpatwant Pannun, the campaigner of this 'Refrendum 2020'. There are certain grey areas. We want to know from him first clear as to how is it is workable? How it is practical in getting desired results? Who will take the baton and who will campaign for it in Punjab, since Punjab is the ground and we are the indigenous faces of the struggle? He hasn't contacted any of the organisations based in Punjab so it is big question mark as to how he will do it while sitting in foreign shores? He hasn't contacted any Sikh group that has been spearheading the campaign of Khalistan," Kanwarpal Singh said. He hoped all his questions will be answered in the London conference scheduled to be held on August 12.

It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan's spy agency Inter-services Intelligence (ISI) is allegedly using discredited Khalistani groups to further its agenda and backing them to organise a pro-Khalistan rally in London.

Earlier, when Sikhs for Justice had revealed August 12 plans through a press conference, UK-based known Khalistani activist Paramjeet Singh Pamma, whom India tried to extradite from Portugal, hosted the press conference of the World Kashmir Freedom Movement, Kashmir Patriotic Forum International and Overseas Pakistani Welfare Organisation.

The British High Commission in a statement made it clear that while there is freedom of protest and expression in United Kingdom, the government will not allow any groups spreading hatred or violence.

"We will not tolerate any groups who spread hate or deliberately raise community fears and tensions by bringing disorder and violence to our towns and cities and the police have comprehensive powers to deal with such activities," spokesperson for British High Commission in New Delhi, Sally Hedley said in a statement.

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Superstar Salman Khan has finally responded to Priyanka Chopra's sudden exit from the much anticipated film 'Bharat'.

After refusing to comment on the same at the trailer launch of Aayush Sharma-Warina Hussain starrer 'Loveratri' in Mumbai, the 52-year-old spoke in length about it at the promotion of the movie here in the national capital.

"I am really happy for her. Had we known earlier that she has signed a big film in Hollywood, we would have never stopped her. My shooting had begun. We got to know about her decision of leaving the film at the end moment- just 10 days before her schedule," said Salman.

He added, "Priyanka had come home and I told her, 'It's okay if you don't want to do it'. At that time, we were given some other reason. Whatever may be the reason - be it marriage or picture or her not being willing to work in India or with me, it's her reason and we are really supportive about her doing good work. If she does not want to work with Salman Khan, it's okay; she's working with a big hero in Hollywood."

The 'Sultan' star then thanked Katrina Kaif for coming on board at the end moment.

"So, when Priyanka said it's not working out because of whatever reason she gave us, we wished her good luck. And then, we went for Katrina. She is already doing 'Zero' with Shah Rukh Khan, 'Thugs of Hindostan' with Aamir Khan and another film with Yash Raj Films. With all these films, she said yes to 'Bharat', because of which we are very grateful to her. She is extremely hard working," he concluded.

On a related note, PeeCee exited 'Bharat' after she reportedly got engaged to rumoured boyfriend, Nick Jonas.

Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, the flick is slated to hit theatres on June 5, next year.

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The Supreme Court on Tuesday came down heavily on the alleged rapes of minor girls in a Muzaffarpur shelter home run by a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) and raised question over their funding.

The Apex Court asked, "Who is giving money to the shelter home in the state? Why the credentials of institution running shelter home not checked before it was provided funds."

Justice Madan B Lokur said that a proper monitoring of these NGO run shelter homes have be done on day to day basis.

The Top Court also made it clear that to prevent and not to repeat such kind of incidents; CCTVs should be installed within the premises.

On a related note, Bihar Police has found one out of the 11 women, who went missing from another shelter home of prime accused Brajesh Thakur in Muzaffarpur.

The alleged Muzaffarpur shelter home rape case has put Nitish Kumar government in Bihar under the spotlight. So far, 11 employees of the shelter home have been arrested and 44 girls rescued. The shelter home was run by Brajesh Thakur, the prime accused in the case who is behind bars now. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken charge of the case now.

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Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati on Tuesday expresssed anger against the Narendra Modi-led government, saying they are not making enough efforts for uplifment of Dalits in society.

Speaking to media, the former Uttar Pradesh cheif minister said that the backward classes of the country are not getting the benefits of reservation in education institutions and jobs. She also criticised the Dalit ministers who owe alligiance to the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP).

"Over the last four years, the central government has done nothing to support Dalits and other backward classes. Even in governmment jobs and education institutions, people are not getting benefits and are highly dissatisfied with the working of this government," said Mayawati.

Further taking a dig at the Narendra Modi government, Mayawati accused the Centre of appeasing the backward classes through some of its recent moves.

"As the elections are nearing in several states, the BJP is under immense pressure. In order to win the mandate in the upcoming polls, the Centre restored the SC/ST Atrocity Law and has taken up the issue of making Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) an autonomus body yesterday," she said.

The Lok Sabha, on Monday, unanimously passed the law with provisons for stricter guildines, like no bail for anyone accused of atrocities on SC/STs and non requirement of an inquiry for registering a criminal case and beginning a probe.

The BSP chief also urged the government to promulgate a law that can provide reservation to the upper caste poor on the basis of economic conditions.

"I request the Centre to provide atleast 18 per cent or more reservation to upper caste poor for their development. For the past few decades, the BSP has been demanding that along with upper class poor, minority religious groups like Muslims should also be brought under the reservation," said Mayawati.

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Minister of State (MoS) for Finance Shiv Pratap Shukla on Tuesday cornered Congress President Rahul Gandhi over his earlier remark on women's safety, and claimed that the latter has "lost his mental balance."

"The kind of statements Rahul Ji makes, it appears he has lost his mental balance. Congress party needs to fix their president's mental condition," Shukla told ANI.

Earlier today, the Congress President claimed that women need safeguarding from Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) MLAs (Members of Legislative Assembly).

"They talk a lot, but the Women's Reservation Bill is long pending. Congress told them clearly that the entire party will stand by them the day they decide to pass it. They said 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao'. I fail to understand whose daughter do they want to save. The daughters need to be saved from these BJP MLAs," remarked Gandhi while addressing 'Mahila Adhikar Sammelan'.

Reacting to Gandhi's statement, Union Minister Smriti Irani said "India's Defence Minister is a lady, External Affairs Minister is a lady and Lok Sabha Speaker is a lady. To disrespect women just because they are associated with BJP or RSS shows the level to which Rahul Gandhi will fall.

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Former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah wrote a letter to his successor HD Kumaraswamy, urging him not to shift Film City project from Mysuru to Ramanagar.

Siddaramaiah, in his letter, said that the Film City was planned to be built in Mysuru and 100 acres land was also allotted for the same. He also mentioned that it was the dream of late legendary actor Rajkumar to build Film City in Mysuru.

Kumaraswamy in his last budget announced that Film City will be shifted to Ramanagar from where he was elected.

Siddaramaiah hails from Mysuru district, while Kumaraswamy represents Ramanagar constituency.

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One of the most painful histories of the human civilization is the 1945 atomic attack carried out by the United States on the city of Hiroshima, Japan, which killed around 140,000 people and left scars in the memories of uncountable others till date.

73 years later, a group of students at the Fukuyama Technical High School has attempted to recreate the spine-chilling World War II episode using Virtual Reality (VR) technology, Time reported.

The students took two years to create a five-minute VR experience in which loud blasts are heard, buildings are destroyed, and smoke is seen under dark skies. They have also repainted the city as it was years ago by referring to old photos and talking to survivors.

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United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday blamed "bad environmental laws" for California wildfires and said the state is burning because the laws aren't allowing available water to be properly utilised.

"California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading," President Trump tweeted.

The US President further wrote that California Governor Jerry Brown must allow the 'free flow' of water from the North which he said was 'foolishly being diverted' into the Pacific Ocean.

"Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water - Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals," read the tweet.

Catastrophic wildfires continue to wreck California, as one fire exploded in size over the weekend, making it the second largest in the state's history.

No one has been reported injured in the Mendocino Complex Fire, which consists of two fires - the Ranch Fire and the River Fire - burning around Clear Lake, in Northern California, reported CNN.

Firefighters are trying to douse the 17 major fires that are burning in hot, dry and windy conditions.

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Following reports of her being elected as the opposition candidate for Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman's election, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Member of Parliament (MP) Vandana Chavan on Tuesday said that she would be happy if a woman is elected for the post.

Speaking to ANI, Chavan said, "I would be very happy if any woman is elected as Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha, but nothing has been decided yet. Opposition meetings are going on, we should wait."

The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since June 2018 after the retirement of Congress leader PJ Kurien. At the farewell of Kurien, Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu had urged the ruling and opposition parties to find a suitable replacement for the post.

According to media reports, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Satish Mishra and Trinamool Congress MP Derek o Brien had earlier suggested Chavan's name for the post of Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha.

Meanwhile, Janata Dal (United) leader Harivansh Narayan Singh is likely to be the Democratic Alliance's (NDA) candidate for the post. The elections will be held on the second last day of the monsoon session of Parliament, that is, on August 9.

Earlier on Monday, Naidu suggested that the deputy chairman should be elected by consensus. The nomination papers will have to be filed before noon on August 8.

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Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone fell 4.39% to Rs 379.80 at 10:09 IST on BSE after consolidated net profit fell 9.14% to Rs 697.40 crore on 12.17% decline in net sales to Rs 2411.03 crore in Q1 June 2018 over Q1 June 2017.

The result was announced after market hours yesterday, 6 August 2018.

Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 53.13 points, or 0.14% to 37,745.02.

On the BSE, 2.10 lakh shares were traded in the counter so far compared with average daily volumes of 3.17 lakh shares in the past two weeks. The stock had hit a high of Rs 394.90 and a low of Rs 379.10 so far during the day. The stock hit a record high of Rs 451.55 on 24 January 2018. The stock hit a 52-week low of Rs 350.20 on 28 March 2018.

Karan Adani, chief executive officer and whole time director of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone said that the company clocked highest quarterly throughput with a growth of 9% in Q1FY19. This has been possible due to its continued efforts to diversify cargo at all its ports. Port earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) margins have expanded by 100 BPS to 70% and the company expects EBITDA to continue to expand due to its focus on higher capacity utilization, automation and mechanisation through use of technology. The company's focus will be to further strengthen its balance sheet and to continue best practices in health, safety and environment processes.

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), a part of globally-diversified Adani Group, is the largest port developer and operator in India.

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FICCI welcomes the initiative taken by the GST council to specifically discuss the issues and concerns being faced by MSMEs. "The decision of the GST council to set up a group of ministers comprising Finance Ministers of Bihar, Assam, Delhi, Punjab, and Kerala under the chairmanship of Minister of State for Finance Mr. Shiv Pratap Shukla will help in addressing the problems faced by the MSMEs," said Mr. Rashesh Shah, President, FICCI. Mr. Shah added, "the emphasis of the GST council on the fitment committee providing solutions with regard to the rate changes required, along with the pilot project for providing cash back facility to promote digital Payments, are also steps that will benefit MSMEs".

The Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a vital role in the economic and social development of the country, often acting as a nursery of entrepreneurship. They also play a key role in the development of the economy with their effective, efficient, flexible and innovative entrepreneurial spirit. "FICCI is confident that the committee will address the issues and will help provide speedy solutions to the problems faced by the MSMEs," said Mr. Shah.

FICCI has submitted some recommendations with regard to the MSMEs to the GST council. They include allowing single Pan-India registration.

A single registration will mitigate the uncertainty, cascading and unnecessary compliances. It is imperative that a single registration be allowed for MSMEs with a credit mechanism that ensures that there are no credit blockages.

Simplifying the procedure for exports, including refund procedure as it has been observed by the taxpayers in the MSME sector that the requirement of letter of Undertaking poses additional compliance for them in terms of time and resources involved without serving any purpose for the department, especially when all the details of the exporter are already available with the revenue department in the form of PAN, Import Export Code. It is recommended that the requirement to submit LUT by the small exporters may be dispensed with. This would ease the compliance burden for MSMEs and encourage exports.

Also, the GST regime was meant to be a digitalized system; however, department authorities still insist that separate hard copies are also provided to claim refund. This defeats the purpose of digitalizing process. The time involved by the MSMEs in finally getting the refund sanctioned causes a tremendous strain on the cash flows of the MSMEs, which in turn restricts the possibility of increasing exports.

Meanwhile, it has been observed that there are considerable delays in processing of refund in case the tax on inputs is higher than tax on the output supply. It is recommended that considerable time and effort should be put in by the Government to clear such pending refunds. This is an important area of concerns for MSMEs and needs to be looked into.

It is also recommended that the exemption from paying GST under reverse charge should be provided up to a certain threshold of expenditure. This would reduce the compliance burden for MSMEs without much revenue loss for the Government.

In order to facilitate the interests of the service providers, it is suggested that the requirement of payment of GST on receipt of advance on services should also be removed, in case of supply of services.

Lastly, the GST applicable to Breakfast Cereals is requested to be reduced from current 18% to 12% as it will drive penetration of this nutritious food product to a great extent.

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Intellect Design Arena rose 14.31% to Rs 232 at 14:42 IST on BSE after the company said it won a large multimillion dollar deal with a leading bank in Asia.

The announcement was made during trading hours today, 7 August 2018.

Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 43.18 points, or 0.11% to 37,735.07.

On the BSE, 6.88 lakh shares were traded in the counter so far compared with average daily volumes of 73,000 shares in the past two weeks. The stock had hit a high of Rs 243.50 so far during the day, which is also 52-week high for the counter. The stock had hit a low of Rs 198.40 so far during the day. The stock hit a 52-week low of Rs 96.50 on 11 August 2017.

Intellect Design Arena has signed a significant multimillion dollar deal with leading bank in Asia market with a strong foothold in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and China to implement world's first Integrated Trade Finance and Supply Chain Finance (SCF) Platform. This partnership will help the bank to deliver on their commitment of building lasting relationship with their customers through products and exceptional digital customer experience.

On a consolidated basis, net profit of Intellect Design Arena rose 657.59% to Rs 43.94 crore on 23.92% rise in net sales to Rs 298.85 crore in Q1 June 2018 over Q1 June 2017.

Intellect Design Arena is a global leader in financial technology for banking, insurance and other financial services.

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Sun Pharmaceutical Industries announced that it launched Kapspargo Sprinkle (metoprolol succinate) extended release capsules in the US, for the treatment of hypertension (to lower blood pressure), angina pectoris (chest pain), and heart failure (to reduce the risk of cardiovascular mortality and heart-failure hospitalization in patients with heart failure). The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 6 August 2018.

On a consolidated basis, Adani Ports And Special Economic Zone's net profit fell 9.14% to Rs 697.40 crore on 12.17% decline in net sales to Rs 2411.03 crore in Q1 June 2018 over Q1 June 2017. The result was announced after market hours yesterday, 6 August 2018.

Sagar Cements said that its consolidated cement sales rose 13.40% to 219,748 MTs in July 2018 over July 2017. Consolidated cement production/purchase rose 4.87% to 230,193 MTs in July 2018 over July 2017. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 6 August 2018.

Unichem Laboratories announced that its API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient)manufacturing facility at Roha, Maharashtra was inspected by US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) from 30 July 2018 to 3 August 2018. Four observations were made, which do not impact continuity of the company's business and its manufacturing activity. The company proposes to respond to these observations within 15 business days. The Roha facility manufactures API for use in the production of formulations that are exported to the USA. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 6 August 2018.

Kridhan Infra (KIL) announced that its associate company, Vijay Nirman Company, has been awarded a new project worth Rs 132.6 crore. The award has been granted for the main civil works for a fertilizer plant in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh and the timeframe for the completion of the project is approximately 14 months. The announcement was made after market hours yesterday, 6 August 2018.

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India can focus on numerous goods for expanding its exports to the US and China markets following the hike in duties by both countries on imports from each other, said the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). With the US imposing additional duty of 25% on imports worth $34 billion from China, certain Indian products may become more competitive, according to CII.

As per CII's analysis, the goods that India should focus on for the US market include items in the categories of machinery, electrical equipment, vehicles and transport parts, chemicals, plastics and rubber products. Countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia have increased their exports of these products to the US in recent years, noted CII.

Based on India's current exports to the US in these categories, products such as intermediate parts for the defense and aerospace sector, vehicles and auto parts, engineering goods, etc. have a higher potential for export, noted CII. Sectors like apparel and textiles, footwear, toys and games and cell phone manufacturing are becoming competitive industries in India and need to be encouraged.

CII has suggested that the trade dialogue with the US should be strategized taking into account India's competitive advantage in these products. Foreign direct investments from the US should be encouraged by boosting confidence of US companies in India's business climate. This might necessitate addressing their concerns regarding non-tariff barriers in India for better outcomes in the long term.

In the domestic industry, CII stated that it is important for India to enhance productivity while adding technology to its domestic production in the identified products.

Following recommendations were put forward by CII:

I. The Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) under the Foreign Trade Policy 2015-2020 includes major product groups of interest to the US and should be used to build exports in the identified categories.

II. Indian companies require better access to export credit to intensify the export effort.

III. Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) should be supported in exporting intermediate and high-technology products.

IV. Trade facilitation must be a high priority to lower transaction costs and enhance competitiveness.

CII examined 818 product lines where the US has raised tariffs for imports from China. Between 2012 and 2017, China's exports to the US have moved up the value chain with accelerated growth in high-technology items such as telecommunications equipment, automotive, cell phones, etc.

Top exports from India to the US which are covered in the list of items for which tariffs have been hiked include pumps, parts of military aircraft, parts for electrodiagnostic apparatus, passenger vehicles of 1500-3000 cc, valve bodies and parts of taps. Exports of these items stood at over $50 million in 2017, according to CII, and can be increased with concerted efforts.

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Around 17 lakh Maharashtra government employees launched a three-day strike on Tuesday over pending demands including implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission Report with departments like education and medical severely hit.

The state government on Monday night directed all employees to report for duty on Tuesday and warned of strict disciplinary action against those who failed to comply under MESMA (Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act) and salary cuts.

It also announced payment of pending Dearness Allowance (DA) for 14 months to 150,000 gazetted officers, who accordingly withdrew from the three-day agitation.

An official of the Maharashtra State Employees Organisation (MSEO) said that all employees right upto taluka levels have joined the agitation.

The MSEO has accused the state government of sitting on its demands including the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission Report, effective from January 1, 2016.

However, later it dilly-dallied saying that it was awaiting the report of the K.P. Bakshi Committtee in the matter as implementing the Commission would entail an additional burden of a staggering Rs 21,000-crore on the debt-hit state.

Other major demands include implementation of a five-day week in all government offices, increasing the retirement age from 58 to 60 and filling up urgently over 200,000 vacancies in the state.

The MSEO, Maharashtra State Class IV Employees Association and other affiliated associations served a notice to strike to the General Administration Department on July 16, but there was no response.

The unions have said that they will not settle for "mere assurances" but only direct action from the government, since the strike was deferred several times in the past few years on such promises.

Tuesday's action has hit normal work in all government offices including the headquarters, Mantralaya in Mumbai, collectorates, tehsils and talukas, besides educational, medical and other government institutions.

--IANS

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A three-day expo, showcasing India's latest technologies in the water and waste water management sector, will be held here from August 23.

The 15th edition of 'Everything About Water Expo and Conclave' will be held this year from August 23 to 25 at Pragati Maidan, with a focus on water scarcity, worsening ground water quality and waste water reuse, among other issues, a statement released by the water portal, EverythingAboutWater, said on Tuesday.

The event, it said, will be held in support of Central Ground Water Board, the Associated Chambers of Commerce of India (ASSOCHAM), The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), Maharashtra Water Resources Regulatory Authority (MWRRA) and Delhi Jal Board.

--IANS

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A nine-year-old student of a private school was allegedly molested by his seniors thrice in their school bus here, police said on Tuesday.

A case has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Shahdara, Ved Prakash Surya said the incident happened in east Delhi's Vivek Vihar.

The victim, he said, has complained that three of his seniors harassed him. The three accused are students of Classes 7, 8 and 10.

"The kid has alleged that he was touched inappropriately and molested by his seniors on three days -- July 27, July 30, and on August 1 -- while going back home in the school bus.

"They used to take him to the back of the bus and touch his private parts," Surya said.

He said the kid was traumatized by their behaviour and had locked himself in a room.

"After he revealed the incidents to his mother, she filed a police complaint on Monday evening," the police officer said, adding that an investigation is on.

--IANS

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Kriti Sanon defies all odds on the cover of Cosmopolitan

Kriti Sanon took to Twitter to unveil Cosmopolitan magazine's issue featuring her on the cover. Kriti looks stunning in the blue jumpsuit. Kriti has a huge fan following in the digital space already.

Kriti is sporting a Jumpsuit with the word "Defy" on it and all over her caption which says " `DEFY anyone who puts you down. DEFY limitations that hold you back. DEFY the norms that stop you from dreaming. DEFY Gravity. You are meant to [email protected] August 2018 issue #CoverGirl`

Kriti's coverline emphasizes on the message that don't change yourself for any guy and love yourself the way you are.

Kriti's August issue of the cover is all about defying all odds and limitations.

Kriti Sanon who currently is shooting for Housefull 4 now has lots on her plate. With the current line-up of films she has, Kriti Sanon is one of the busiest actresses in town.




The Palestinian authorities has said President Mahmoud Abbas will hold a summit meeting with Jordanian King Abdullah II in Amman next Wednesday.

The announcement was made on Monday by Saeb Erekat, secretary general of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), in his statements to the official Palestinian radio station Voice of Palestine, Xinhua news agency reported.

The meeting is part of the ongoing consultations between Abbas and Abdullah II, Erekat said.

The two leaders will discuss the latest developments, including a possible Egypt-brokered truce between Israel and Hamas, and the humanitarian aid to Gaza, a prelude to the implementation of the US "Deal of the Century" rejected by Palestinians.

Abbas will "hold more contacts with Arabs in order to consolidate the Arab Palestinian position, rejecting US President Donald Trump's measures toward the Palestinian cause," the PLO senior official said.

He also urged Hamas to accept the national reconciliation and allow the Palestinian unity government to take over Gaza.

"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would use the division as a loop hole to implement the US 'Deal of the Century,'" Erekat warned.

More than one agreement on Palestinian national reconciliation had been reached under the sponsorship of Saudi Arabia, Qatari and Egypt, but none of them achieved a tangible breakthrough to end the division since Hamas violently seized control of the coastal enclave in 2007.

The Palestinian Authority has been boycotting the Trump administration since he recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital and moved the US embassy to the disputed holy city.

The PLO has repeatedly accused the "Deal of the Century" of falling way short of Palestinian aspirations for lasting and just peace in the region.

--IANS

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The Tamil Nadu government on Tuesday declined DMK's request to allot space for burying the mortal remains of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi near party founder C.N. Annadurai's memorial at the Marina Beach.

In a statement, Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan said as there were several cases pending in the Madras High Court over burial of leaders at the Marina Beach, the government was not able to allot space near the Annadurai memorial.

According to her, Chief Minister K. Palaniswami said two acres land would be allotted for Karunanidhi's burial near Gandhi Mandapam on Sardar Patel Road which already houses memorials for K. Kamaraj and others.

Earlier, family members of Karunanidhi led by DMK Working President M.K. Stalin and party officials met Palaniswami and sought space near Annadurai's memorial for burying Karunanidhi's body, DMK leader Duraimurugan told reporters.

A five-times Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi died after battling age related ailments at Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday evening.

The mortal remains of AIADMK founder M.G. Ramachandran and his successor J. Jayalalithaa are buried near Annadurai's memorial on the Marina Beach.

--IANS

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An aircraft ferrying seven passengers from Jaipur to Sri Ganganagar overshot the runway during landing due to the presence of birds at the Lalgarh airstrip on Tuesday. All passengers and crew members are safe.

"VTUDN belonging to Supreme Transport Organisation Pvt Ltd on Tuesday overshot the runway during landing. All passengers and crew are safe. The aircraft was on regular flight on Jaipur-Lalgarh-Jaipur route," sources at Jaipur airport told IANS.

The accident was reported at 5.30 p.m during landing when birds came flying on the airstrip at the scheduled landing point. So, it was being landed at a place slightly ahead of its scheduled point from where it could not be controlled and eventually it overshot, hitting a boundary wall.

In a statement, Ammeet K. Agarwal, President and CEO Supreme Airlines said: "Flight, #503 Jaipur to Sri Ganganagar with seven passengers and two pilots on-board overshot the runway at Lalgarh.

"Since runway length is only 3,000 feet, after overshooting, the aircraft hit the boundary wall. There is no hurt to any passenger or pilot. There is no severe damage to any property including aircraft."

The aircraft had departed from the Sanganer airport of Jaipur for Lalgarh.

Jaipur-Sri Ganganagar flight services were launched on July 10 as a part of intra-state air connectivity project of the state government by Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje.

--IANS

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Albert Hughes' historical drama "Alpha" will release in India on August 24.

The film will be brought to India by Sony Pictures India and will release in English and Tamil, read a statement to IANS.

An epic adventure set in the last Ice Age, "Alpha" tells a fascinating story that shines a light on the origins of man's best friend.

While on his first hunt with his tribe's most elite group, a young man is injured and must learn to survive alone in the wilderness.

It stars Kodi Smit-McPhee and Johannes Haukur Johannesson.

--IANS

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A small batch of 454 pilgrims on Tuesday left Jammu for the Kashmir Valley as the annual Amarnath Yatra resumed after remaining suspended for two days, officials said.

Police said the yatris left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in an escorted convoy of 11 vehicles. This includes pilgrims going to both Baltal and Pahalgam base camps.

The yatra had remained suspended for two days because of the separatist called protest shutdown in the Kashmir Valley.

To date, over 2.70 lakh pilgrims have performed this year's Amarnath Yatra since it started on June 28.

Coinciding with Shravan Purnima festival, the yatra will end on August 26.

--IANS

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Expanding its infrastructure footprint in India, online retail major Amazon India on Tuesday opened its largest fulfilment centre (FC) in Haryana with a view to enhance customer experience ahead of the festive season.

Spread over close to 300,000 square feet with over 1.5 million cubic feet of storage space, the centre situated in Panchgaon will enable faster delivery to customers in the region, the company said in a statement.

"With the launch of our largest fulfilment centre in Haryana, we now have a storage capacity of more than five million cubic feet in the state. The FC will enable sellers to use the local infrastructure, save capital and help them grow," said Akhil Saxena, Vice President, Customer Fulfilment, Amazon India.

The centre is expected to provide support to the local economy by enabling the growth of ancillary businesses such as packaging, transportation, logistics and hospitality across the state.

It will cater to customer demand for products in categories such as smartphones, consumer electronics, appliances, fashion and consumables, Amazon India said.

--IANS

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A PG medical student of SV Medical College in Tirupati, who had accused three professors of sexual harassment, has committed suicide in Andhra Pradesh's Chittoor district.

The 30-year-old victim was found hanging at her flat in Pileru town on Tuesday.

In April, she had complained to Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan in writing that she was being sexually harassed by three professors from the Paediatric Department.

Following which the college management formed a committee in May to conduct an inquiry.

The student, meanwhile, was upset after she failed in the post-graduate exams. She had told her friends that she was deliberately failed as she had complained against the professors.

The suicide triggered protests by students at the SV College where a sit-in was staged demanding action against the professors.

The victim's relatives alleged that the inquiry committee had not submitted its report and the three professors had gone to the media describing her as mentally unsound.

They said the attitude of the professors had caused her mental agony.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 7 (IANS/Mongabay) Will environmental issues finally bask in the electoral limelight? If events across some of the major Indian cities in the past few years are to go by, it is definitely the time for green issues to shine. The environmental issues plaguing the internet-savvy electorate as well as the poor sections of these major cities may finally become an integral part of the election discourse.

Over the past year, the national capital has garnered the most attention for environmental issues, compared to other major cities in the country. Cleaning of the polluted river Yamuna, considered holy by Hindus, has been a campaign issue for political parties for over decades. But the limelight seems to have now shifted to the Central Government's plan to axe over 16,500 trees in Delhi for the redevelopment of government colonies.

In June 2018, there was a much-publicised citizen protest against the move, with Delhi's residents even going to court. It also resulted in a political slugfest between three major political parties of Delhi - the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress. The AAP-led Delhi government also had a tiff with BJP-led government of India about who allowed the felling of such trees.

Though the cutting of trees is on hold for now it is expected to become a point of consideration for at least a section of Delhi's voters.

Urban floods in Chennai and Mumbai, the water crisis in Shimla, forest fires in Dehradun, polluted lakes in Bengaluru, increasing human-wildlife conflict across India or campaign to save Mumbai's Aarey forest area are apt examples of some of the issues that have caught the attention of media as well as the public. Such issues even forced political parties to take note of them and clarify their stand.

Is it something new?

An environmental issue gaining centre stage in media and public discourse is not a new thing. Over the past several decades there have been numerous instances of environmental issues being in the limelight but they were not an integral part of the election conversation. In some cases, even if they became an election subject they lost significance once the environmental issues were settled.

has been a part of the manifestos of other major national parties too in the last few years. For instance, the 2014 manifesto of the Congress also had several protection related promises including cleaning of River Ganga.

Will environmental issues gain centre stage in the 2019 election campaign?

So even as environmental issues keep cropping up in the media, public and sometimes political discourse, will they be a significant part of the 2019 election campaign?

"Yes, I believe they will be because I think pollution is an equal opportunity killer and doesn't discriminate between rich and poor," said Muhammad Khan, a Congress party spokesperson.

Picking up the trend early, in March 2018, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia presented a "green budget".

"This is perhaps the first time that such a budgeting exercise has been attempted in the country where the impact of each department's proposals to control pollution were studied in a scientific manner before making budgetary commitments," Sisodia had said while presenting the 2018-19 budget of the government in the Delhi legislative assembly.

Will young and internet savvy Indians drive the green issues?

A significant section of India's middle class, especially in urban and semi-urban areas, is active online - mainly on social media. There have been instances where the support or opposition of this social media generated pressure group, on issues concerning the environment, has had an impact on a policy.

For instance, the resistance to the central government's housing redevelopment project in Delhi, which was to result in the axing of over 16,500 trees, started on social media platforms. As a result, citizens who first coordinated online, got together on the ground, protested and successfully approached courts to stop the project temporarily. With the young voters forming an important part of the total voters, it has also become hard for political parties to ignore their views.

Is it India's Green Party moment?

Is the time ripe for the development of a Green Party in India like in some of the western European countries such as Germany, Sweden, Finland and the UK? A Green Party is a political party that looks at the development of society through the prism of protection.

But in India, basic facilities like water, electricity or even food are still a struggle for many and land up constituting a major part of election promises. So experts feel that it may be early for environmental issues to reflect in the form of a political party for elections.

"There are concerns among the middle class about the environment but they are only bothered or concerned about the environment when it is really serious and not a day-to-day basis," said Sanjay Kumar, director at the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies. "On a day-to-day basis the Indian middle class living in urban areas or towns or metropolitan cities don't care too much about the environment. Their concern is only limited to when they read something in the newspaper. Everybody thinks that someone else should be doing something about it," he added, stressing it is not yet India's Green Party moment.

"It is still at least 20 years away. It will take time for the environment to become an election issue in India," he said.

(In arrangement with Mongabay.com, a source for environmental news reporting and analysis. The views expressed in the article are those of Mongabay.com. Feedback: gopi@mongabay.com)

--IANS

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Australia's population is set to hit the 25 million mark, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), with the 25 millionth Aussie expected to be an immigrant from India or China rather than a newborn.

According to ABS, Australia's population is increasing by one person every 83 seconds and the new population record is likely to be set late on Tuesday night, ABC News reported.

"We won't know for sure who the 25 millionth Aussie will be. But it is more likely to be an overseas migrant than a newborn," author and political commentator George Megalogenis was quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald.

"The two biggest migrant groups in Australia are Chinese and Indians since the turn of the 21st century," he told The World programme.

"So we're getting an extraordinary number of Chinese and Indians from two countries that are actually rising. Since about 2005, we're receiving more people from overseas than have been added to our population through natural increase, so more migrants than babies," Megalogenis said.

Net overseas migration -- the number of arrivals minus departures -- currently accounts for 62 per cent of Australia's growth. Natural increase makes up 38 per cent.

"Last time that happened was in the gold rushes of the 1850s," Megalogenis said.

The milestone, driven significantly by migration, has magnified debate about the merits of a "big or little" Australia and congestion in cities, according to the BBC.

As urban sprawl worsens in Sydney and Melbourne, the government wants people to look at alternative places to live.

Australia's population is concentrated around its coast as Sydney and Melbourne alone account for about two-fifths of people. The Oceanian country has grown by six times since 1901 when its population was 3.8 million.

Australia is one of the world's largest countries by land area, ranked seventh out of 257 nations, according to the 2017 CIA World Factbook.

However, its population density is among the world's lowest, at 3.1 people per square kilometre, with most Australians living in the country's southeast, and vast regions of the interior being sparsely populated, the ABS said in 2016.

--IANS

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BJP National Secretary Rahul Sinha on Tuesday called upon the Muslims in the country to support the draft NRC in Assam and said that Trinamool Congress' opposition was an "attempt to divert attention from its failures in West Bengal".

"I urge the Indian Muslims, especially those living in Bengal, to come forward and support the implementation of the NRC in this state as well. West Bengal is becoming a hub for infiltrators under the Trinamool Congress rule. There should be a clear demarcation between refugees and infiltrators," he said.

Echoing BJP National General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya's views, Sinha said that Hindus, Christians and Buddhists who arrived in India due to persecution in Bangladesh can be termed refugees while those illegally crossing borders for employment and other benefits are infiltrators.

"We have to stop this as infiltrators are taking up our jobs, food and employment," the BJP leader said.

Terming TMC rule in Bengal since 2011 as a "complete failure" the BJP leader said that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had changed her stand on illegal immigrants to divert people's attention from failures of her government as the 2019 general elections were nearing.

"Be it law and order, industry, employment generation or health, the Trinamool Congress government and the Chief Minister have been complete failures in Bengal," Sinha said.

The draft NRC in Assam was published on July 30 and excluded over 40 lakh people for allegedly failing to submit proper identification documents.

--IANS

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Rafiqul Islam made DMD of BD Finance

Business Desk :

Mohammad Rafiqul Islam joined Bangladesh Finance And Investment Company Limited (BD Finance), one of the leading financial institutions in Bangladesh as Deputy Managing Director.

Prior to taking over the new assignment, Rafiqul Islam served at Standard Chartered Bank as Director, Relationship Management, and Commercial Banking.

Rafiqul Islam has 21 years of versatile banking experience in service and credit related area. Rafiqul Islam completed MBA from IBA, University of Dhaka. He started his career in Dhaka Bank Limited as probationary officer in 1997 and subsequently served in Citibank N.A. and Standard Chartered Bank.


The West Bengal CID on Tuesday arrested former West Midnapore district police chief Bharati Ghosh's husband M.A.V. Raju in an extortion case, after his anticipatory bail was rejected by the Calcutta High Court, a CID officer said.

The High Court had rejected Raju's bail plea in connection with the probe into a case of alleged extortion and illegal exchange of banned notes for gold in West Midnapore district's Daspur.

The Criminal Investigation Department had earlier arrested four police officers who had worked under Ghosh and the caretaker of an apartment in south Kolkata, suspected to be owned by her, in the case.

More than Rs 2.4 crore, important government documents and sealed liquor bottles were seized during raids at a number of flats in south Kolkata's Madurdaha.

A large amount of unaccounted cash was also seized from the houses of several police officers named in the FIR.

The CID raids started following a case of extortion and criminal conspiracy was lodged in Daspur on February 1 after gold trader Chandan Majhi complained against some police officers in the district thought to be close to Ghosh.

Ghosh, once a favourite of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, reportedly fell from grace and sought voluntary retirement after she was transferred as Commandant of West Bengal Armed Police's 3rd Battalion. Her application was accepted.

The CID issued arrest warrant against her on February 10 on the charges of extortion and criminal conspiracy and sent teams outside the state to look for her.

--IANS

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The progress in developing tourism infrastructure in West Bengal's coastal circuit has been sluggish in spite of receiving Central government's funds under the 'Swadesh Darshan' scheme, a senior official of Ministry of Tourism said on Tuesday.

"The Tourism Ministry sanctioned Rs 85.39 crore for West Bengal's coastal circuit including Digha, Mandarmani, Tajpiur, Frazerganj, Bakkhali, Shankarpur etc under the Swadesh Drashan scheme out of which Rs 42.69 crore has been already released.

"However, the progress of the developmental work in those areas has been relatively slow," J.P. Shaw, Regional Director (East), Ministry of Tourism, said on the sidelines of a seminar on 'Heritage and Weekend Tourism in Bengal', organised by the Bengal National Chamber of Commerce and Industry here.

Shaw said West Bengal is currently at fifth position in terms of foreign tourists' inflow and eighth in domestic tourists' visit in the country.

"In Bengal, better showcasing and marketing of the tourist destinations is necessary. Also more skilled man power and better infrastructure is needed to bring more tourists. Unless there are good roads, good connectivity and good accommodation, tourism will not flourish," he said.

The official said the Tourism Ministry has also provided funds under the Ministry of Tourism's 'Prasad' scheme for infrastructural development of Kolkata's Belua Maah, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda.

"The Centre has also sanctioned Rs 30.03 crore for Belur Math, out of which 23.90 crore has been released so far to build an extra jetty at Dakshineswar temple and Other amenities such as drinking water area, LED screen, garbage disposal area and to install adequate lights for the temple premises," he said.

Referring to the 'Prasad' scheme that provides money under the Centre's Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spirituality Augmentation Drive, the official said Tourism Ministry has not received any other proposals so far from the Bengal government, apart from the Belur Math.

"There are a number of religious places in Bengal like the Tantric town of Tarapith or the Taraknath Temple in Hoogly district's Tarakeswar would be considered. But so far we have not received any such proposals," Shaw noted.

Shaw said the Centre would also provide fresh funds for a new light and sound show in Kolkata's Victoria Memorial after it received the proposal from the state government.

The official said the Ministry has identified three properties from West Bengal including the Cooch Behar palace in Cooch Behar district, Hazarduari palace in Murshidabad district and chain of temples in Bankura district's Bishnupur under the Tourism Department's "Adopt a Heritage" project, that allows private and public sector corporations to adopt India's top heritage sites.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Bombay High Court on Tuesday rejected jailed gangster Abu Salem's plea for a 45-day parole to get married to his Thane-based girlfriend.

A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice V.K. Tahilramani and Justice M.S. Sonak declined the request on the ground that under the prison rules, those convicted under terror charges were not eligible either for furlough or parole.

Currently lodged in the Taloja Jail, Raigad, Salem moved the High Court after his earlier application for parole was rejected by the Konkan Divisional Commissioner (KDC) - the competent authority in such cases - in March on security grounds.

Through his lawyer Farhana Shah, he informed the High Court on Tuesday that the KDC had refused his application "without proper application of the mind" for his previously planned marriage on May 5.

Convicted for his role in the March 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, Salem had reportedly married' his girlfriend, Heena alias Kausar Bahar, a resident of Mumbra town in Thane district.

Extradited from Portugal in November 2005, he claimed to have married Heena in 2014 over the phone while en route to Lucknow for a court case though she had made certain conflicting statements later.

He contended that he wanted to properly formalize his marriage with Heena by going to the registrar's office and needed parole for this.

Originally hailing from Azamgarh in Uttar Pradesh, Salem was convicted and sentence to life imprisonment for his role in the Mumbai serial blasts and other cases, besides being an accused in several other major cases, under trial in different parts of India.

In December 2014, he had complained to the Portugal authorities seeking cancellation of his deportation to India claiming that the extradition terms and conditions were allegedly violated.

--IANS

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Considered an elixir for your baby, breast milk and breast-feeding play a key role in your childs development. Over the years, the health benefits of breast-feeding have been emphasised to create awareness about the impact of nursing on the overall development of your baby.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breast-feeding for the first six months. However, if we are to go by the statistics, only two out of five women initiate the practice within the first hour of childbirth.

Dr Subhashini N.S., Ayurveda expert, R&D, The Himalaya Drug Company, tells us why breast-feeding is important.

* Breast milk is the best, easiest and the most accessible source of nourishment for baby

* Breast milk helps protect babies from illness such as cold, flu, pneumonia and infections, due to the presence of immunoglobulins and antibodies

* Breast-feeding can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes as well as certain types of breast and ovarian cancer.

Breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for infants. It has a nearly perfect mix of vitamins, protein and fat. And, it is all provided in an easily digestible form. Breast milk contains immunoglobulins and antibodies that help your baby fight viruses and bacteria.

Plus, babies who are breast-fed exclusively for the first six months have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of diarrhea.

When breast-feeding, it is important to maintain breast hygiene while your breasts adjust to the new lactating state. A few tips:

* Clean your breasts and nipples properly to avoid any breast-feeding-related infections. It is advisable to simply clean your breasts and apply a nipple care butter infused with kokum butter and virgin coconut oil, which soothe, heal and protect dry, cracked and sore nipples

* To avoid unexpected leaks and stickiness after a feeding session, you can use nursing wipes enriched with coconut oil

* It is recommended that you stay away from synthetic products to clean your nipples, so opt for products with natural ingredients to treat soreness, cracks and for instant hygiene needs.

It is advisable to feed your baby as often as possible, about every two hours or so, as breast milk gets digested quickly. The best way to feed your baby (whether breast or bottle-feeding) is to first choose a calm room, away from any noise or distraction. Make yourself and your baby comfortable on a chair or couch with plenty of cushions around for support.

Breastfeeding is nature's'way of helping new mothers recover quickly from the trauma of childbirth, supporting her health, and providing the perfect opportunity to bond with the baby. Most mothers find it difficult to breast-feed in public as nursing in public is not common in India. Ensure that you do not breast-feed your baby in an unhygienic environment such as washrooms, especially when you are travelling. This can make you and your baby vulnerable to infections.

Taking cognisance of the fact that mothers need to breast-feed in a healthy and safe environment, Himalaya BabyCare has set up over 120 breast-feeding booths in Kempegowda International Airport and Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, as well as railway and bus stations in Rajasthan.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Finally overcoming many roadblocks, Railway Minister Piyush Goyal is likeley to pilot the long awaited station redevelopment proposal in the Cabinet meeting slated for Wednesday seeking involvement of the private sector in redeveloping 600 stations on an extended 99-year lease period.

The proposal to extend the lease period from earlier approved 45 years was hanging fire with Finance Ministry, Urban Affairs Ministry and Niti Ayog since the new plan was firmed up by Goyal to make the redevelopment project a success venture both for the public transporter and the real estate players.

Since the 45 years lease proposal did not get good response from private players, there was a need to make it more attractive, said a senior Railway Ministry offical.

According to the amended proposal slated to be taken up by the Cabinet, the Railways will seek approval for redeveloping 600 stations in the first phase through Indian Railway Station Development Corporation (IRSDC) as the nodal agency for a lease period ranging between 45 years to 99 years depending upon the project.

After facing hurdles to the 99 years lease proposal, railways has adequately explained to the concerned Ministries of the need of the extended lease period.

Railways has explained in a note that the changes it sought were "essential to attract the major real estate players into such transit-oriented development (TOD) programmes in the urban sector".

TOD is a type of urban development programme which maximises the amount of residential, business and leisure space within walking distance of public transport. The Railways' note has details about the TOD which aims to increase public transport ridership, reduce automobile travel, and promote sustainable urban growth.

The basic purpose is to leverage the commercial potential of railway land while at the same time upgrading basic amenities at stations, the official, said adding: "The government aims to use the redeveloped stations as catalysts of economic activity in the surrounding areas."

The redevelopment of 600 stations envisages opening of shopping plazas, office complexes, hotels, multiplexes and parking lots, among other commercial activities, on rail land, and making provisions for improved passenger amenities at stations.

While the Railways aims to earn about Rs 50,000 crore over the next 10 years from commercialisation of rail land near stations, the ambitious project is expected to involve expenditure of over Rs 1 lakh crore -- Rs 80,000 crore in commercial exploitation and Rs 35,000 crore in station redevelopment.

The Cabinet had, in 2015, approved the proposal to redevelop 400 railway stations using a contract method called the "Swiss Challenge" - with a 45-year lease period. However, the proposal did not get a good response, prompting the currently proposed changes.

Besides, earlier only General Managers (GMs) of zonal railways were authorised to undertake the exercise. Now it has sought the involvement of states, the public sector, public-private partnership (PPP), and the engineering, procurement, construction (EPC) models as well.

Station redevelopment envisages huge private investment for construction, operation, and maintenance of infrastructure shich shall be enabling factor for greater employment generation.

Besides, ISRDC, the Cabinet is likely to okay the Railways proposal to involve NBCC and other central government agencies in the redevelopment project if required.

With the Railway Minister holding additional charge of Finance Ministry, the proposal is pushed in the right earnest and the concerns of the Urban Affairs Ministry and Finance Ministry are being addressed.

(Arun Kumar Das can be contacted at akdas2005@gmail.com)

--IANS

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Catastrophic wildfires continue to ravage California, as one blaze nearly doubled in size over the last three days, making it the largest in the US state's history, according to authorities.

No one has been injured in the Mendocino Complex Fire, which consists of two fires -- the Ranch Fire and the River Fire -- burning around Clear Lake, in several counties in Northern California, reports CNN.

Combined, they form the biggest blaze that California firefighters are currently battling.

Altogether, the Mendocino Complex Fire has burned 283,800 acres -- growing about 80 per cent since August 3.

As of Monday evening, it was 30 per cent contained and had destroyed 75 residences.

The Mendocino Complex Fire has now surpassed last year's Thomas Fire, which burned 281,893 acres in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, as the largest fire in Cal Fire history.

Exhausted firefighters across the state are trying to contain 16 major fires that are burning in hot, dry and windy conditions.

On Monday, another fast-moving fire ignited in the state -- this time in Orange County, where firefighters battled the Holy Fire that expanded to more than 4,000 acres.

That fire started in the Cleveland National Forest and evacuations in the nearby areas have been ordered, according to the Orange County Fire Authority.

In Northern California's Shasta County, the devastating Carr Fire claimed its seventh victim on August 4 when a Pacific Gas and Electric worker died while working with a crew to restore power, CNN reported.

Over the weekend, the White House approved a disaster declaration for Shasta County, allowing affected residents to apply for federal assistance including temporary housing and home repairs.

Currently, more than 14,000 firefighters are battling the wildfires across California.

Fire crews from Australia and New Zealand arrived in the state on Monday to provide assistance.

--IANS

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A special CBI court on Tuesday turned down the discharge applications of two retired IPS officials D.G. Vanzara and N.K. Amin in the 2004 alleged fake encounter killings of Mumbai girl Ishrat Jahan and others.

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) judge J.K. Pandya had reserved the order and delivered it on Tuesday. The arguments from Vanzara and Amin in their discharge pleas had concluded on July 18.

While holding that the role of these two accused was greater than that of retired in-charge Director-General of Police P.P. Pandey, the CBI judge rejected the petition of the two senior police officials.

The court had earlier allowed the discharge petition of Pandey in the same case where the retired official had claimed that he was not on the spot of the crime. Vanzara and Amin had sought parity with Pandey's case and sought to be discharged.

"Once we have the official copy of the order, we can know the view of the court. The order may be of rejection but we have not read it. Pandey was discharged under Section 197. Principles of law suggest that if it has happened for one accused, then others should also be dealt at parity," said N.K. Amin to the media after the CBI court judgment.

After the CBI court ruling, Vanzara and Amin now remained accused in the case and face the trial.

The counsel for the former IPS officials in their arguments had maintained that both were framed in the encounter case by the CBI as they were not even present at the scene of crime. To buttress their claims, they cited the acceptance of discharge plea of the former Acting DGP by the same court.

Nineteen-year-old college girl Ishrat Jahan from Mumbra in Mumbai was gunned down by the Gujarat Police on the outskirts of Ahmedabad on 2004, with allegations that she and others were terrorists and had come to gun down then Chief Minister and now Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Shamima Kausar, the mother of Ishrat Jahan, had opposed the discharge applications. In her application she stated that her daughter was abducted, kept in illegal confinement and murdered in cold blood by the police officers and was "falsely projected as an encounter killing". Her advocate had also argued that the "accused cannot be discharged even before the supplementary chargesheet is placed before this court".

A supplementary chargesheet was pending with the special CBI court (magisterial) in the same case that names Intelligence Bureau officials, including former Special Director Rajinder Kumar.

Kauser, on her part, contended that there were eye-witnesses whose statements had been recorded under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code which established the role of the senior police officials in the case.

Amin said he would consider approaching a higher court, while Vanzara refused to comment, saying that the case was sub-judice.

The CBI judge announced further hearing in the case on September 7.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Union Home Ministry has decided to relieve Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) from VIP duties and hand over the responsibility to Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the National Security Guard.

"In order to ensure uniformity and standardization in the specialized task of personal protection duties, the government has decided to progressively relieve CRPF from personal protection duties and assign this task to CISF and NSG," Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangram Ahir told the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

In a written reply, Ahir said at present in the Special Protection Group about 30 per cent officers are from CRPF on deputation and in NSG it is about 11 per cent.

He said steps had been taken considering CRPF's challenging role in Maoist-affected areas and in Jammu and Kashmir.

Currently, the CRPF has been providing security to over 70 VIPs including BJP President Amit Shah, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Reliance Chief Mukesh Ambani.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Chinese astronomers have discovered the most lithium-rich giant star ever known, which could shed new light on the evolution of the universe.

With 3,000 times more lithium than a normal star, it was found in the direction of Ophiuchus, on the north side of the galactic disk, at a distance of 4,500 light years from Earth, reports Xinhua news agency.

The star has a mass almost 1.5 times our sun.

A research team, led by astronomers from National Astronomical Observatories of China (NAOC), made the discovery with the Large Sky Area Multi-Object Fibre Spectroscopic Telescope (LAMOST), a special quasi-meridian reflecting Schmidt telescope located in NAOC's Xinglong Observatory, in Hebei province.

The telescope can observe about 4,000 celestial bodies at one time and has made a massive contribution to the study of the structure of the galaxy.

Lithium is considered one of the three elements synthesised in the Big Bang, together with hydrogen and helium. The abundance of the three elements was regarded as the strongest evidence of the Big Bang.

The evolution of lithium has been a key subject in the research of the evolution of the universe and stars. However, giant stars rich in lithium are very rare, with only a few found over the past three decades. This makes their study remarkably challenging, said Zhao Gang, a lead astronomer at NAOC.

"The discovery of this star has largely increased the upper limit of observed lithium abundance," said Zhao.

The results of the study were published in the latest issue of Nature Astronomy.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said his party was working with other opposition parties to wage an ideological battle against the "purely male-chauvinist" RSS and its political front the BJP.

Making a stinging attack on the saffron parties at an event organised by All India Mahila Congress, Gandhi said the BJP's parent organisation was so male dominated ideologically that it had no place for women.

He also attacked the Modi government and said there was no institution or minority community in the country which was not under attack under its rule.

Gandhi said the Congress was committed to protect all institutions and communities and was working with all opposition parties on an ideological basis to fight the BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

Gandhi said he was committed to create a special space for women at every level in the party and that he would ensure that they have equal stake as men in the Congress.

"The RSS and BJP cannot give such a vision to the country. They have never allowed women in the RSS... which is a purely male chauvinist organisation that doesn't give any space to women."

He added: "The BJP is devastating our country and damaging our institutions. There is no institution in the country which is not under attack.

"Minorities, Dalits, women and tribals: all of them are under attack. It is our responsibility to protect them all and we will not back down. We will defeat the BJP."

The Congress leader said while he was committed to promote women by creating a special space for them, but that they won't get it for free.

"You'll have to earn it. You will have to compete with men... You will have to learn policy-making and how to fight elections."

Gandhi added while he would pick the more capable candidates irrespective of the gender, but given a choice between equally capable man and woman, he would chose woman - be it in internal party structures or while giving election ticket.

--IANS

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RANINAGAR ( Naogaon): Leaders of Nirapad Sarak Chai(NIACH), Raninagar Upazila Unit distributing awareness leaflet to OC Siddikur Rahman during a police drive on Sunday.
The Congress on Tuesday demanded a JPC probe into the Rafale fighter jet deal with France, alleging that the change of terms and conditions of the previous agreement negotiated by the then UPA government had caused a loss to the exchequer.

The demand for the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe was raised by party leader K.C. Venugopal in the Lok Sabha during a debate on the first batch of supplementary demands for grants for 2018-19.

Later, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge also repeated the demand, saying the Modi government had not replied to the points raised by Venugopal and had "accepted" what he said.

The Congress and some other opposition members also staged a walkout in the House.

Venugopal, who initiated the debate, said Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had refused to disclose the price of the fighter jet under the new deal, citing an agreement with France, when the government had given out the price in an answer to a parliamentary question.

"The UPA government revealed the cost under the previous defence deal in Parliament itself. In addition to this, public entity Hindustan Aeronautical Limited was bypassed for getting more than Rs 30,000 crore in offset contract," he said.

The Congress leader said that under the deal negotiated by the earlier UPA government, Bengaluru-based HAL would have got licence to build 108 of the 126 Rafale aircraft and only 18 aircraft were to be built in France.

He said that it would have provided jobs for lakhs of youths and also technology transfer.

The Congress lawmaker said that Dassault Aviation of France sold the same 48 Rafale jets to Egypt and Qatar in 2015 for Rs 1,319.80 crore per aircraft.

"I am telling this in Parliament. You can inquire. Hence, there is a scam. We demand a JPC inquiry. You created so much noise when the Bofors (scam) happened. This is a major scam. Therefore, we demand a JPC inquiry," he said and alleged that the government was trying to hide matters.

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey objected and said that the Congress member was referring to a "confidential" paper and should authenticate it and place it before the House.

Trinamool Congress MP Sugata Roy also referred to the Rafale deal and said that a "full-fledged inquiry should be made by the government."

Opposition members also slammed the government over unemployment and management of Indian economy, saying the credibility of the nationalised banking system has been severely affected.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Tuesday said that the Congress and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) are conspiring to not let Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah speak in the Rajya Sabha.

"He (Amit Shah) is the President of the world's largest party. Won't he be allowed to speak in the upper House of which he is a member? It is not just TMC ... there is a tacit support of the Congress party too (in not allowing Shah to speak)," Prasad told reporters outside Parliament.

Earlier in the Rajya Sabha, as Shah stood up to speak on the hiked MSP for kharif and agrarian issues, the TMC members came near the Chairman's podium and shouted slogans.

When Chairman Naidu tried to invoke the Rule that allows the Chair to remove a disrupting member from the House, the Congress MPs stood up in protest.

Prasad said the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill 2018, too, was listed in the day's business which could not be taken up due to disruptions and adjournments.

"The Congress is anti-Dalit and anti-tribal," he said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The contest for the post of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman is expected to be between a Congress nominee backed by other opposition parties and the candidate of the ruling BJP-led NDA as NCP on Tuesday decided against putting up a candidate for the August 9 election.

Sources said that Nationalist Congress Party decided not to field Vandana Chavan, whose name was being "actively considered" by opposition parties, after sensing that she would not get extra support from Biju Janata Dal and Shiv Sena.

The sources said that the NCP conveyed its decision at the meeting of opposition parties convened in the chamber of Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad.

The decision left little choice for the Congress but to put up its candidate in "the fight for principle."

A senior Congress leader said after the meeting that the party will field a candidate but did not reveal any name. He said it will be decided by late evening today.

He said the party was willing to contest the election from the beginning but had also offered to back any other Opposition candidate.

Congress sources said the government had not reached out to it for a consensus but only conveyed that JD-U member Harivansh will be its candidate.

The decision came amid reports that Bihar Chief Minister and JD-U leader Nitish Kumar had called up Odisha Chief Minister and BJD chief Naveen Patnaik to seek support for the party nominee.

Kumar had also called up TRS chief and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao seeking his party's support for the party candidate.

Congress will give the motion in favour of its nominee on Wednesday. All the motions for the election of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman will be moved on Thursday and taken for vote in succession. If a motion gets carried, others will not be taken up in the House.

Though the Opposition seemed to have an edge in the election initially, the NDA now appears to be carrying the momentum with likely support of AIADMK, TRS as also the BJD.

There is also speculation that BJD may not take part in voting.

The opposition parties had a meeting earlier in the day and a leader conveyed that Vandana Chavan's name was being "actively considered."

The sources said NCP took a decision not to put up a candidate after getting feedback from Shiv Sena and Biju Janata Dal.

Apart from Azad and Pawar, the meeting was attended by Congress leaders Anand Sharma and Ahmed Patel, Samajwadi Party's (SP) Ram Gopal Yadav, NCP's Praful Patel and Communist Party of India's (CPI) D. Raja.

The parties which would support an opposition nominee include the Congress (50), TMC (14), SP (13), TDP (6), CPI-M (5), CPI (2), NCP (4), AAP (3), BSP (4), RJD (5), PDP (2), JD-S (1), Nominated (1), Kerala Congress-Mani (1) and IUML (1).

Rajya Sabha Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu had on Monday announced that the new Deputy Chairman to the upper House will be elected on August 9.

The post fell vacant after P.J. Kurien retired in July.

The election will be held a day before the monsoon session of Parliament concludes.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Police arrested a computer science graduate for cheating 50 women of at least Rs 90 lakh after taking a cue from Bollywood movie 'Ladies vs Ricky Bahl' and another on master conman Charles Shobhraj.

Arrested on a victim's complaint, Tarun Poddar, 24, used to meet gullible women in five-star hotels, introducing himself as a well-known author on the social media or the operations head of a company, Deputy Commissioner of Police Vijay Kumar told IANS.

To impress his potential victims, Tarun allegedly showed them fake identity cards of reputed MNCs and posted fake pictures on his Facebook page and other social media platforms.

The officer said Tarun also travelled in high-end cars along with two bodyguards so as to impress the women. Posing as a writer, he showed the women a forged cover of a book to claim he was its real author.

The accused was impressed by the character of Charles Sobhraj in 'Main aur Charles' movie apart from 'Ladies vs Ricky Bahl' in which Ranveer Singh played conman Ricky who cheats women.

Tarun was arrested from his residence in west Delhi's Rani Bagh.

"A native of Darbhanga in Bihar, Tarun duped the complainant after meeting her in a cab pool ride. He convinced her that he had good contacts in high places and reputed schools in NCR-Delhi," he said.

"The complainant had sought Tarun's help for admission of a relative's child in a school, for which he demanded Rs 12 lakh. The woman paid him over Rs 8 lakh. He fooled her by sending emails in the name of the said school regarding confirmation of the admission."

The complainant found she had been cheated when she approached the school authorities. Tarun started avoiding taking her calls, following which she filed a police complaint on May 29, the DCP said.

During interrogation, Tarun claimed he had duped 50 women in Delhi and Jaipur through a similar modus operandi.

He had been arrested earlier by Rajasthan Police for cheating a woman, the DCP said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Former Prime Minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh expressed his condolence on the death of DMK President M. Karunanidhi and wrote to his son M.K Stalin saying that the country has lost a versatile genius.

"In his death our country has lost a versatile genius who was an outstanding artist, an eminent writer and a true leader who always stood for the cause of poor and downtrodden classes of the society," he said.

Singh also added that he was an exceptional public servant who was a very able administrator and served the nation and Tamil Nadu with "great distinction in diverse capacities".

"I respected Thiru. Karunanidhi deeply who had a special affection towards me and whenever I went to Chennai, I tried to find time to meet him personally there. His services to the nation will be remembered for many years to come," he added.

Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala also expressed grief over Karunanidhi's demise saying that he was "repository of federalism in India".

"Karunanidhi was the harbinger of of deprived and of the poor in the state of Tamil Nadu. He represented scientific temper and creation of a casteless society. He led people of Tamil Nadu and shaped the destiny of the state," he said.

Karunanidhi, 94, passed away on Tuesday evening. He was admitted to the hospital on July 28 and his condition worsened on Monday.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A special court here on Tuesday extended interim protection from arrest to former Finance Minister P. Chidambaram and his son Karti till October 8 in the Aircel-Maxis deal case.

The CBI on July 19 filed a chargesheet against 18 persons in the case, including former Finance Minister P. Chidambaram and his son Karti.

The CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are investigating how Karti Chidambaram managed to get clearance from the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) for the Aircel-Maxis deal in 2006.

On August 29, 2014, the CBI had filed a chargesheet in the case alleging that between July 2004 and September 2008, Dayanidhi Maran, as Minister in the UPA-I government, used his influence to help Malaysian businessman T.A. Ananda Krishnan buy Aircel by coercing its owner Sivasankaran to part with his stake.

Sivasankaran alleged that Maran favoured the Krishnan-owned Maxis Group in the takeover of his company. In return, he alleged, Maxis made investments through Astro Network, a sister concern, in Sun Direct TV Pvt Ltd (SDTPL), stated to be owned by the Maran family.

However, a special court had dropped charges against former Communications Minister Dayanidhi Maran, his brother Kalanithi and others in the alleged kickback of Rs 742 crore in the Aircel-Maxis deal, saying that the "perception or suspicion" was not backed by concrete evidence.

--IANS

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The Delhi cabinet on Tuesday approved a proposal to increase the MLA Local Area Development (LAD) fund to Rs 10 crore per year per assembly from Rs 4 crore.

"The MLAs used to come to us for small things due to lack of funds. Now they don't have to run around," Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia told the Delhi Assembly.

The LAD is a fund given to MLAs to execute various works in their constituency.

Modelled on the Member of Parliament LAD scheme, an MLA in Delhi received Rs 4 crore in a year under the LAD scheme, started in 1994.

"From this year, the fund given will be Rs 10 crore," Urban Development Minister Satyendar Jain told the House.

Later, speaking to media outside the Assembly, Sisodia said the step will help in best utilisation of the money.

"The utilisation of these funds is purely at the discretion of MLAs. It is first of its kind in the country. Our government wants to ensure local development through MLAs," he said.

--IANS

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Ambassadors from EU member countries in Bangladesh and Human Rights Watch on Tuesday condemned the violence against students protesting over the lack of road safety in the country's capital.

The protests began on July 29 after two young men were killed and several others wounded after being hit by a speeding bus. The demonstrations brought Dhaka to a standstill.

"EU Heads of Mission stress that the violent scenes in Dhaka in recent days, particularly where schoolchildren and young people have been caught in protests or violent clashes with other groups, are a source of real concern," an EU delegation to Bangladesh said in a statement signed by eight EU ambassadors.

The ambassadors included those from Spain, Italy, Germany and France, Efe news reported.

"Incidents of unlawful or disproportionate violence or action against protesters, journalists or others need to stop. Earlier incidents must be investigated and perpetrators held to account," the statement said.

The EU said it expected "all sides to remain calm and to respect the right to peaceful protest".

Sunday saw the worst incidents of violence during the nine days of the protest as security forces used riot control measures to disperse the crowds. Violent counter demonstrators were also involved in clashes with protesters and around 20 photojournalists.

The EU heads of mission praised the students for highlighting the issue of road safety in Bangladesh and welcomed the government's decision to address the issue.

According to the Bangladesh National Committee for the Protection of Ships, Highways and Railroads, in 2017, 4,289 people died in 3,472 traffic accidents in the country.

HRW also issued a statement on Tuesday condemning the violent repression of the protests, allegedly carried out by the youth wing of the ruling Awami League as well as drawing attention to the arrests of students, activists and journalists like photographer Shahidul Alam.

He is accused of conducting a smear campaign against the Bangladeshi government and spreading rumours about student protests.

--IANS

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Former President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu, BJP President Amit Shah and several other leaders expressed grief over the death of DMK stalwart M. Karunanidhi on Tuesday.

"Deeply saddened at the passing away of Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi. 60 years a legislator, 5 times CM and a pillar of many coalitions at the Centre, he influenced his state's and the national like few others. My deepest condolences to his family and admirers. He will be missed deeply," Mukherjee said in a tweet.

The Vice President described Karunanidhi as one of the leading and longstanding politician of the country who left a mark of his own.

"I am grieved by the passing away of M. Karunanidhi, one of the leading and longstanding politicians of our country who left a mark of his own during his long public life of about 80 years including 56 years as Member of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly," Naidu said in a tweet.

Expressing grief over Karunanidhi's death, BJP President Amit Shah said that no one can forget his struggle during the Emergency.

"Anguished to learn about the demise of veteran politician, M. Karunanidhiji. He had an impressive life journey, starting as a screen writer in Tamil film industry to being five-term Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. No one can forget his struggle during Emergency, imposed in 1975," Shah said in a tweet.

"I express my deepest condolences and pray to the Almighty to give strength to Karunanidhiji's family and followers in this hour of grief to bear the profound loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti," Shah wrote in the tweet.

Union Road Transport and Shipping Minister Nitin Gadkari tweeted: "Saddened to know about the demise of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. May His soul rest in peace. My deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu."

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu also took to Twitter and said: "Offer my deepest condolences to the family and supporters of M. Karunanidhiji as his earthly sojourn comes to a close. He was a leader loved by millions both in and outside Tamil Nadu for his contribution towards the society at large. May his soul rest in peace."

Delhi Chief Minister Minister Arvind Kejriwal also condoled the death of DMK patriarch.

CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechury in a tweet said: "Kalaignar Karunanidhi leaves behind a rich legacy of seven decades' long contributions to evolving Indian and Tamil Nadu He rose to be a political and intellectual leader championing social justice and upliftment of the poor and marginalised."

"Feel very sad to hear about the demise of this great leader. May his soul rest in peace. It's a great loss to the nation," Kejriwal said tweeted.

--IANS

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Designer Payal Jain feels that the word couture and bridal have somehow got entangled in each other in India but things are slowly moving in a progressive way. She also feels that when she started her label, fashion was a misunderstood term with designers treated as glorified tailors but now they are no less than a celebrity.

"I think the word 'Couture' and Bridal wear have somehow got entangled in each other in India, whereas Couture is not limited to the bridal market. It simply means 'made to measure' for any dinner, cocktail, performance, get together or special occasion.

"It is also not limited to saris and lehangas but has a much wider interpretation in the western world. It includes evening gowns, pant suits, draped ensembles, skirt ensembles, dresses and more. Slowly the Indian customer is warming up to special Western ensembles, although the majority of them associate Couture with bridal wear only," Jain told IANS in an e-mail interview.

She says that when she first started her label, 'Couture' was not a word the Indian customer understood.

"Fashion too was a grossly misunderstood career choice as designers were treated as glorified tailors. Over the last two decades, I have seen the revolution in this industry, everyone has an opinion on fashion today and designers are considered celebrities, with huge fan following," she said.

"I have always created western garments with a strong Indian textile heritage, but in the early 90s, the Indian fashion sensibility of most consumers was purely ethnic. With time, I have seen these preferences change completely across the country. Today, the Indian consumer is well aware of the global trends and up to date with international fashion. They want the latest trends, expect the best and are willing to spend on exclusivity and uniqueness.

Specially, 'Couture' is a word which is widely understood and appreciated amongst the discerning Indians. It remains largely Indian in its form, but gradually I can see more and more women opting for Western options for occasions," she added.

Seamlessly blending Indian craftsmanship with modern day western silhouettes, Jain's name is synonymous with eternal style. An industry veteran with decades of experience under her belt, she prides herself on meticulously crafting every piece that she creates with intricate precision.

With many accolades under her belt, including dressing trendsetter extraordinaire Victoria Beckham, Priyanka Chopra, Deepti Naval, Saina Nehwal and many others, there is no doubt that her atelier's legacy will prevail to be one of the strongest fashion houses in the history of Indian Fashion.

Jain is one of the few designers that take painstaking care of each phase of her design realization. She conditions all the textile development that goes into her collection; from approving every fiber to the actual processing of the weave itself, spending anywhere between 12-18 months developing her line.

She feels that fashion is limited to boundaries or ethnicity.

"My collections cater to the modern woman of today; who knows her likes and dislikes, is secure and comfortable in her skin and is a global citizen. She may or may not be Indian and can be living in any part of the world. She has a contemporary fashion sensibility and appreciates Indian textiles and crafts. She has an appreciation for subtle aesthetics, fine craftsmanship, intricate detailing, and beautiful garment construction," said Jain.

She recently showcased her couture collection "Moonlit" at DLF5 Crest Club House. The designs showcased progressiveness, beauty and uniqueness wearing precious jewels from RK Jewelers South Extension-II. Inspired by delicate milky white flowers of ethereal beauty, and pristine simplicity,

So what else is happening on the design front?

"There's a lot happening now in the fashion space, both in India and abroad. We are stocking our label in several stores across the globe and constantly working with agents to increase the foot print of the brand. On the corporate front too, there are hotel projects being undertaken and executed in various geographies. Finally, fashion in India has grown to be an industry, not a small business," she said.

(Nivedita can be contacted at nivedita.s@ians.in)

--IANS

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KISHOREGANJ: District police, Kishoreganj brought out a rally marking the Traffic Week on Sunday.
The Supreme Court will hear on August 13 a plea for a court-monitored SIT probe into the lynching of cattle trader Qasim by cow vigilantes in Hapur in Uttar Pradesh in June.

Chief Justice Dipak Misra agreed to hear the plea as lawyer Vrinda Grover mentioned the matter before a bench, which included Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and Justice Indira Banerjee.

Petitioner Samayuddin, who was also beaten up mercilessly during the lynching of Qasim at Bajhera village in Hapur district on June 18, also pleaded for cancellation of bail granted to the accused.

The petitioner contended that the Uttar Pradesh Police had ignored the top court's direction to curb lynchings.

The Supreme Court had on July 17 issued 22 guidelines to the central and state governments to put an end to the "horrendous acts" of vigilantism, lynching and mobocracy and directed them to work in tandem to take "preventive, remedial and punitive measures".

The top court had said that it was the duty of the State to "ensure that the machinery of law and order functions efficiently and effectively in maintaining peace so as to preserve our quintessentially secular ethos and pluralistic social fabric in a democratic set-up governed by the rule of law."

Of the 22 guidelines, 12 dealt with preventive steps, nine with remedial measures and one punitive action against police officers found wanting at any stage -- prevention, investigation and expeditious trial.

The departmental action "shall be taken to its logical conclusion preferably within six months", the court had said.

The court had also suggested that Parliament enact a law categorising lynching and other forms of vigilantism as a distinct offence and providing for adequate punishment.

--IANS

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The Delhi High Court on Tuesday asked the Centre to file its response to Aam Aadmi Party legislator Sanjeev Jha's petition challenging the formation of Police Complaints Authority (PCA) by the Lieutenant Governor without consulting the city government.

A bench of Justice S. Ravindra Bhat and Justice A. K. Chawla listed the matter for October 10.

PCA will inquire into complaints and allegations against Delhi Police personnel on matters of custodial rape, custodial death, extortion or any serious abuse of authority.

As per the notification, the authority will also inquire into allegations after receiving the complaint either from the victims or the National Human Rights Commission, Lt. Governor and Delhi Government's chief secretary or principal secretary.

--IANS

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Colombian cyclist Alvaro Hodeg, from the Quick-Step team, won the third stage of the Tour of Poland, held between here and Zabrze, after covering the 140 kilometres of the route in a time of three hours nine minutes and 59 seconds.

Hodeg is two seconds ahead of the previous leader, Pascal Ackermann, after the German rider failed to get a bonus in the third sprint finish on Monday, which made him fall to second place in the overall standings, reports EFE news agency.

Behind Hodeg, England's Daniel McLay and Germany's Andre Greipel crossed the finish line, with Greipel rising to third place in the overall standings, 15 seconds behind the leader.

The fourth stage of the Tour of Poland will take place on Tuesday on a 179 km route between the cities of Jaworzno and Szczyrk.

--IANS

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday mourned the death of DMK stalwart M. Karunanidhi, saying the country has lost one of its greatest sons.

"Today India lost one of its greatest sons. And Tamil Nadu lost its father figure. Farewell Kalaignar. My deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu, DMK and family. India mourns your loss," Banerjee wrote on her Twitter handle.

A former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi, 94, died on Tuesday evening at the Kauvery Hospital.

--IANS

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a blistering attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that after four years of his rule, India looked "like a train being driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver".

Asking his party MPs to tap the rising anger against the BJP, Gandhi also accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of making a "systematic attack on every single institution" and "destroying" them since the NDA came to power.

Speaking at the Congress Parliamentary Party meeting here, he alleged that in the last four years corruption had peaked amid failing economy due to incompetence.

Gandhi recalled how Modi, before he was elected in 2014, used to say India was a slow "passenger train" for 70 years after independence and how under his guidance the country would become a sleek and shining "magical train" destined for "achche din".

"Four years of Modi rule later, sadly, India today looks more like a train that is being driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver, who does not care what happens to the passengers he is responsible for," Gandhi said.

"The people of India are demanding change. They will no longer be fooled by your magical train that is headed for a bad accident."

He said the people were looking up to the Congress and allied parties to remove the Modi government and replace it with one which will listen to them, understand their problems and provide solutions that reduce poverty, unemployment and inequality.

"In other words, there is a great responsibility that is being placed on all of us today, to win this historic struggle between the forces of democracy and social justice versus those of autocracy and social hierarchy.

"We have to ensure that the forces of hate, division and violence that are trampling upon the Constitution are prevented from coming back to power. We have to restore hope in the eyes of the Indian farmers and youth, about their right to dignified life and decent incomes. We have to give relief to ordinary families being crushed under the dual burden of household debt and rising prices of essential goods. We have to ensure the safety of Indian women."

Gandhi said since the RSS and the BJP have come to power, "we have seen a systematic attack on every single one of our institutions. In modern India, these institutions were called temples of democracy and today the RSS is intent in destroying every single one of them. Every single institution is being penetrated by their people and nature of institutions itself is being changed".

"In 2014, Modi claimed if he was elected there would be creation of two crore jobs for youth a year, doubling of farmers' incomes, prosperity and growth for businesses, the return of black money stored in Swiss banks, Rs 15 lakh in the bank account of every Indian citizen, lowering of petrol prices, safety for women, justice for Dalits...

"Leave alone creating new jobs the reality is that existing jobs have been disappearing... The unemployment rate in India has doubled between July 2017 and April 2018, whereas the number of jobs in the last financial year also fell... Unemployment rate in the country almost doubled from 3.39 per cent in July 2017 to 6.23 per cent in March 2018 and is projected to reach even higher."

--IANS

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An operation was underway on Tuesday to evacuate thousands of tourists who were stranded after a deadly earthquake jolted Indonesia's Lombok Island killing 98 people and injuring over 200 others.

A video released by authorities showed hundreds of people, many believed to be foreign tourists, crammed onto a beach on the island of Gili Trawangan as evacuation measures got underway, reports CNN.

The island, famous for its white sandy beaches and clear waters, is located near the epicentre of the 6.9 magnitude quake on Lombok that struck on Sunday evening.

Rescue efforts earlier were hampered by shallow waters, but rising sea waters have paved the way for nine ships to dock on Gili island.

So far, up to 2,700 tourists have been moved from the Gili Island. Lombok's airport was now open around the clock and had significantly increased its flight schedule.

The epicentre of the quake was in northern Lombok, a more residential, less developed part of the island. The majority of Lombok's tourist resorts are on the island's southern coast.

An estimated 20,000 people have been displaced by the massive earthquake

Rescue teams on Tuesday also continued searching under debris from collapsing buildings for more survivors, reports Efe news.

Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, the spokesperson of the Indonesian National Board for Disaster Management (BNPB), said the teams rescued a survivor from a collapsed mosque in northern Lombok, the most affected area where 72 people were found dead.

The earthquake was also felt in neighbouring Bali. More than 100 aftershocks continued to rattle the region after the main quake.

The devastation comes exactly a week after the region was hit by a 6.4 magnitude quake that left at least 15 people dead and 162 injured.

--IANS

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At least two Palestinians were killed by Israeli gunfire in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, according to a Gaza Health Ministry spokesman.

Spokesman Ashraf al-Qedra identified those killed in the northern part of the coastal enclave as Abdel Hafez Mohamed, 23, and Ahmed Abdullah, 23, adding that no injuries had been reported, Efe news reported.

The Israeli Army said that "terrorists fired shots towards IDF (Israeli Defence Forces) soldiers near the northern Gaza Strip from a Hamas post".

"In response, an IDF tank targeted the post from which the shots were fired. No injuries to IDF troops were reported," the statement posted to Twitter added.

Tensions between Israel and Gaza have escalated since weekly border protests started on March 30, which left more than 150 Palestinians dead and 17,500 others injured, according to statistics released by the Gaza Health Ministry.

The "Great March of Return" protests sought the right of Palestinian refugees and their descendants, who according to the UN make up around two-thirds of Gaza's population, to return to their homeland inside what is now Israel.

Israel accuses the Islamist Hamas movement, which has been controlling the coastal enclave since 2007, of using the protests as a cover to damage the border fence, infiltrate the Israeli territory and launch attacks.

--IANS

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A Moroccan man has been arrested in Spain on charges of planning attack in Spain with another terrorist, the Spanish Interior Ministry said.

The 21-year-old jihadist, who belonged to terrorist group Islamic State (IS), also allegedly recruited terrorists for jihad, the Spanish police said on Tuesday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Police said the Moroccan man, arrested in Vitoria, experienced a drastic change in his habits of life and in his manifestations, who moved to extremist Salafist postulates, and even defended in social networks violent actions perpetrated by terrorist organisations, especially IS.

He contacted another terrorist who was arrested in 2017 in Morocco for intending to attack in Spain, while inciting him to commit these massacres with audiovisual material about IS.

Spanish police highlighted that the cooperation between Spain and Morocco was also key to dismantling the intentions of the arrested.

"The cooperation, along with the permanent alert of both countries in prevention, detection and neutralization of potential terrorist elements, is fruitful. These operations allow us to deactivate this type of threats on both sides," said the police.

--IANS

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of DMK leader M. Karunanidhi and said like former Chief Minister Jayalalitha, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people and deserves to be given space on Marina Beach.

He said India has lost a great son, who strode the stage of Tamil like a colossus for over six decades.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," Gandhi said in a tweet.

"Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief," he said.

Karunanidhi, 94, passed away on Tuesday evening. He was admitted to the hospital on July 28 and his condition worsened on Monday.

--IANS

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Karnataka Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and other leaders from the state on Tuesday paid homage to DMK patriarch M. Karunanidhi, who earlier passed away in Chennai.

"Karunanidhi strived for the development of Tamil Nadu all through his life and built a strong regional party DMK. I met him several times. He made me understand the importance of regional parties," Kumaraswamy said in a statement here.

The Chief Minister recalled that many of Karunanidhi's popular schemes for the poor and downtrodden in Tamil Nadu were replicated in other states.

The DMK was a coalition partner in the United Democratic Front (UDF) government headed by H.D. Deve Gowda as Prime Minister in 1996-97 and Karunanidhi played a key role in the formation of the non-Congress government at the Centre," said the statement.

On his long association with the southern stalwart, Kumaraswamy said though Karunanidhi came to from film industry, his dedication and service to the people of Tamil Nadu was commendable.

"In his death, we have lost a unique personality in Indian and Tamil Nadu a visionary leader," mourned Kumaraswamy.

Gowda, the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) supremo, who visited an ailing Karunanidhi in the hospital on August 3, expressed grief and paid condolences to the bereaved family.

"Karunanidhi was one of the tallest political leaders in the country. Though he hailed from a village and strived hard to come up in life, he led the DMK for over 50 years and ruled Tamil Nadu as Chief Minister five times," Gowda told reporters here.

Recalling his long association with the DMK patriarch, Gowda said DMK's support to his coalition government in 1996-97 and subsequently to the NDA government (1999-2004) and UPA government (2004-2014) at the Centre provided stability to the country.

"The DMK's support to the NDA and UPA governments for 15 years from 1999 to 2014 not only ensured stability at the Centre, but also benefitted Tamil Nadu immensely as evident from the all-round development of the neighbouring state," Gowda added.

Karnataka BJP chief B.S. Yeddyurappa said that the 'Kalaignar' of Tamil Nadu got involved in social service at a young age and was a multi-faceted personality.

"I cannot forget his touching gesture of accepting my request to install the statue of Kannada poet Sarvajna in Chennai during my tenure as Karnataka Chief Minister (2008-11)," Yeddyurappa said in a statement here.

In response, Karunanidhi also accepted Yeddyurappa's invitation and unveiled saint poet Tiruvalluvar's statue in Bengaluru in August 2009, which strengthened the bond between the people of the neighbouring state.

"Karunanidhi's yeomen service to the people of Tamil Nadu will always be remembered. The death of then Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in December 2016 and now Karunanidhi on Tuesday has caused a huge political void in south India. I share the grief of the Tamils who have lost an icon. May his soul rest in peace," the BJP leader added.

State Congress unit President Dinesh Gundu Roa condoled the death and tweeted: A towering personality in Tamil Nadu who also played a significant role at the national level. A true inheritor of the Dravidian movement. TN politics will never be the same again. #RIP."

--IANS

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Israeli strike kills 2 Hamas in Gaza

A relative of a Palestinian Hamas who was killed in Israeli tank shelling, reacts at a hospital in the northern Gaza Strip.

GAZA, Reuters :

Israeli tank fire killed two Hamas in Gaza on Tuesday in a strike the Israeli military said was launched against a position from which its troops had come under fire.

Hamas and Palestinian health officials in Gaza confirmed the deaths near Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza, shortly before noon.

A statement by the Israeli military said: "A short while ago, terrorists fired shots towards IDF (Israel Defence Forces) soldiers near the northern Gaza Strip from a Hamas post. In response, an IDF tank targeted the post from which the shots were fired."

The military released footage that it said was of the incident. One of the grainy black and white video clips shows two men in a watchtower, one appears to open fire as puffs of smoke burst in front of him. The video then cuts to separate footage of a shell hitting the post and an explosion. Reuters was immediately unable to verify the footage. In Gaza, Hamas's military wing, the Qassam Brigades, issued a statement saying that it "mourns the two Mujahedeen" and that they had been "martyred in a Zionist bombardment." No militant group claimed responsibility.

U.N. and Egyptian-led efforts are under way to mediate a long-term truce between Israel and Hamas that would end a four-month upsurge of violence along the Israel-Gaza border.

At least 158 Palestinians have been killed in four months of weekly border protests and one Israeli soldier was shot dead by a Gaza sniper.

Israel says Hamas, which rules Gaza, is using the protests as cover to carry out cross-border attacks. Hamas denies this.

Palestinians militants have also fired rockets into Israel and the Israeli military has carried out dozens of air strikes in the enclave.

Israel has lost tracts of farmland and forest to fires started by kites and helium balloons laden with incendiary material which have caused fires in Israeli forests and farmlands and flown over the border by Palestinians in Gaza.
DMK leader and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi's health deteriorated further on Tuesday, with Kauvery Hospital describing his condition as "extremely critical and unstable".

"There has been significant decline in the clinical condition of Karunanidhi over the last few hours. Despite maximum medical support, his vital organ functions continue to deteriorate. His condition is extremely critical and unstable," a hospital statement said.

Karunanidhi, 94, a five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, has been warded in the hospital located at Alwarpet in the heart of Chennai since July 28 when his blood pressure dipped all of a sudden.

Even before the Tuesday evening statement, thousands of DMK supporters, both men and women, began massing outside the hospital, some waving the party's red-and-black flags and photos of one of India's most veteran politicians.

"Ezhundhu Vaa Thalaivaa" (Awake, our leader) and "Vaa, Vaa, Gopalapuram Polaam Vaa" (Come, Come, let's go to Gopalapuram) were among the slogans raised by the emotionally-charged crowd, referring to the locality where the former Chief Minister has a house.

But after the latest medical bulletin, many in the crowd started to weep on the barricaded streets.

The Tamil Nadu Police chief on Tuesday ordered maximum deployment of the police force across the state.

Director General of Police T.K. Rajendran asked all Superintendents of Police, City Police Commissioners and others to direct officials under them to report to them immediately in uniform without delay.

The government ordered the closure of liquor shops at 6 p.m. on Tuesday.

The police presence was increased outside the Kauvery Hospital. Police prevented some party members trying to enter the hospital.

Earlier in the day, Karunanidhi's son and DMK leader M.K. Stalin met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami along with his family members and senior party colleagues. The meeting took place at Palaniswami's residence.

Amid rising concerns over Karunanidhi's health, many in Chennai began to stock essentials like vegetables and milk, fearing a shutdown in the city and across Tamil Nadu.

Many office-goers were asked by family members to head home at the earliest.

The crowds outside the hospital started to swell after the medical bulletin issued by Kauvery Hospital on Monday evening said that Karunanidhi's condition had deteriorated.

On Monday, the hospital said Karunanidhi's response to medical intervention over the next 24 hours would determine the prognosis.

"There has been a decline in the medical condition of Karunanidhi. Maintaining his vital organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age related ailments," said the hospital statement.

The DMK chief was admitted to the hospital for the first time on July 18 for change of tracheostomy tube.

On July 26, the hospital said Karunanidhi was suffering from urinary tract infection and he was being treated with intravenous anti-biotics and fluids.

However, the DMK leader's condition turned bad on July 28 with a drop in his blood pressure and he was shifted to the hospital. He has remained there since then.

Since then, a virtual Who's Who of Indian politics, ranging from President Ram Nath Kovind to Chief Ministers, have flown to Chennai to meet Karunanidhi's anguished family members.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
DMK leader and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi's health deteriorated further on Tuesday, with Kauvery Hospital describing his condition as "extremely critical and unstable".

"There has been significant decline in the clinical condition of Karunanidhi over the last few hours. Despite maximum medical support, his vital organ functions continue to deteriorate. His condition is extremely critical and unstable," a hospital statement said.

Karunanidhi, 94, a five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, has been warded in the hospital located at Alwarpet in the heart of Chennai since July 28 when his blood pressure dipped all of a sudden.

Even before the Tuesday evening statement, thousands of DMK supporters, both men and women, began massing outside the hospital, some waving the party's red-and-black flags and photos of one of India's most veteran politicians.

"Ezhundhu Vaa Thalaivaa" (Awake, our leader) and "Vaa, Vaa, Gopalapuram Polaam Vaa" (Come, Come, let's go to Gopalapuram) were among the slogans raised by the emotionally-charged crowd, referring to the locality where the former Chief Minister has a house.

The Tamil Nadu Police chief on Tuesday ordered maximum deployment of the police force across the state.

A circular issued by Director General of Police T.K. Rajendran asked all Superintendents of Police, City Police Commissioners and others to direct officials under them to report to them immediately in uniform without delay.

The Zonal Inspector Generals of Police have been asked to utilize manpower within the zone depending upon the requirement.

Earlier in the day, Karunanidhi's son and DMK leader M.K. Stalin met Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami along with his family members and senior party colleagues. The meeting took place at Palaniswami's residence.

Amid rising concerns over Karunanidhi's health, many in Chennai began to stock essentials like vegetables and milk, fearing a shutdown in the city and across Tamil Nadu.

The crowds outside the hospital started to swell after the medical bulletin issued by Kauvery Hospital on Monday evening said that Karunanidhi's condition had deteriorated.

On Monday, the hospital said Karunanidhi's response to medical intervention over the next 24 hours would determine the prognosis.

"There has been a decline in the medical condition of Karunanidhi. Maintaining his vital organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age related ailments," said the hospital statement.

The DMK chief was admitted to Kauvery Hospital for the first time on July 18 for change of tracheostomy tube.

On July 26, the hospital said Karunanidhi was suffering from urinary tract infection and he was being treated with intravenous anti-biotics and fluids.

However, the DMK leader's condition turned bad on July 28 with a drop in his blood pressure and he was shifted to the hospital. He has remained there since then.

--IANS

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Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday described the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK leader M. Karunanidhi as "a great loss to the nation".

The Aam Aadmi Party leader said he will fly to Chennai on Wednesday to pay his tributes to the DMK stalwart who died on Tuesday evening at age 94.

"Feel very sad to hear about the demise of this great leader. May his soul rest in peace. It is a great loss to the nation," Kejriwal tweeted.

--IANS

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Veteran actor-social activist Shabana Azmi, who has expressed her angst against item songs in the past, on Tuesday said lyricists must take care to avoid derogatory words.

"I am against the use of item songs in the films. The words which are being used in such songs are derogatory and are against the image of females," said the "Arth" actress during an interactive session 'Baithak', organised by News18 here.

Shabana cited the lyrics of the "Fevicol se" song from superstar Salman Khan-starrer "Dabangg 2".

"I don't feel there is any need to include item song in movies. They are not even related to the story. Lyricists should think twice before writing such songs," added the 67-year-old actress, wife of celebrated writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar.

She also spoke about the changing content in Bollywood films and women-oriented films.

From "Damini" in 1993 to "Pink" in 2016, Bollywood has made quite a number of women-oriented films, but Shabana says now the content has evolved and instead of showing weak and helpless women, Bollywood has started portraying strong female characters.

Shabana, who is known for raising her voice for women's rights, believes India has not progressed completely as female foeticide is still practiced.

"Now, I just don't want to point out the issues, I want to bring out the solution and fight for women with them," added Shabana, who cited her late father and writer Kaifi Azmi's words.

--IANS

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Top political leaders from Maharashtra, led by Governor C.V. Rao and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, on Tuesday paid rich tributes to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M. Karunanidhi who passed away in Chennai.

In a message to DMK Working President M.K. Stalin, Rao, who served as the Governor of Tamil Nadu for over a year, described Karunanidhi as "one of the most popular and charismatic leaders who dominated the political discourse of the nation for many decades".

Fadnavis said that in Karunanidhi's demise, the country had lost a towering political leader who gave a new direction to Tamil Nadu.

Nationalist Congress Party President Sharad Pawar said: "Saddened to know about the demis... He will be always remembered as a leader of masses."

Maharashtra Congress President and ex-Chief Minister Ashok Chavan tweeted his tribute: "An era in Indian ends with the demise of Karunanidhiji."

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Maharashtra government has recommended to the Centre to confer the Bharat Ratna on the renowned 19th century social reformers, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and his wife Savitribai, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced here on Tuesday.

He made the announcement while addressing a conference of Rashtriya OBC (Other Backward Castes) Mahasangh in Mumbai for conferring the country's highest civilian award on the Phule couple posthumously, over a century after they passed away.

Incidentally, Fadnavis had made a similar announcement in the state legislature two years ago, requesting the Centre to confer the honour to mark Mahatma Phule's 125th death anniversary.

Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, later revered as Mahatma Phule, was born on April 11, 1827 and his wife Savitribai K. Patil was born on January 3, 1831, both in different villages in Satara district.

When Jyotirao was 13, he was married to the nine-year-old Savitribai, hailing from an aristocratic farming family.

Born in a lower caste, Mahatma Phule was a thinker, social reformer, anti-caste activist and writer while his wife followed in his footsteps besides being an educationist and a poetess. She also worked against the practice of dowry.

The couple fought against the caste system, untouchability, and for reforms in Hindu family life and later founded the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873 to seek equal rights for people from lower castes.

They are credited with launching the first school for girls in Bhidewada, Pune in 1848, with Savitribai as its first teacher. The duo taught girls irrespective of caste, creed or economic background.

The first school started with just nine girls/women as students and later expanded by opening 18 such schools in the state, marking a historic milestone in the area of female education which was considered taboo in the then prevalent orthodox Indian society.

--IANS

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Thane resident, Major Kaustubh P. Rane, was among four Army men killed in Tuesday's encounter with terrorists near the Line of Control (LoC) in Bandipura, Jammu & Kashmir, official sources said.

Major Rane (30) was the only son of his parents.

He lived with his wife Kanika, their three-year-old son and parents Prakash Rane and Jyoti, a retired assistant headmistress of Utkarsh Mandir High School, at Malad in Mumbai.

The Ranes have been living in Thane's Mira Road town for over 25 years. Despite being the only son, he had opted for the Army around six years ago and was currently posted with the 36 Rashtriya Rifles.

His wife and minor son are away at their native place in the Konkan region.

The funeral will be finalised after Major Rane's body was brought here.

Maharashtra Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) President and legislator Kapil Patil condoled the death of Major Rane.

The other martyrs are Vikramjit Singh of Haryana, Mandip Singh and Hameer Singh, both from Uttarakhand.

--IANS

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A septuagenarian in Assam committed suicide by hanging himself from a tree in a remote village on the India-Bangladesh border, sparking rumours that he took the extreme step after failing to find the names of his family members in NRC.

The incident came to light when on Tuesday people spotted the body of Deben Barman (71) hanging from a tree branch in the front yard of his house in Dhubri district, which borders Bangladesh.

While the names of Deben Barman, his wife Shome Barman and daughter-in-law Konika Barman appeared in the NRC, the name of his son Mahendra Barman (48) and two grandchildren did not appear in the draft National Register of Citizens (NRC) published on July 30.

The names of 40,07,707 people were kept out of the register by the authorities over discrepancies.

Some villagers said that Barman was depressed after failing to find the names of three members of his family in the NRC.

"It is difficult to ascertain the cause of his death," said Dhubri Superintendent of Police Longnit Teron on Tuesday.

"We have been trying to speak to his wife but could not as she is in shock. His son, who works in Meghalaya, is yet to arrive," said Teron.

--IANS

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Spanish MotoGP rider Marc Marquez of Repsol Honda on Tuesday said that he would battle for pole position, ahead of an upcoming race in Austria.

The four-time MotoGP champion finished third at the most recent race in the Czech Republic, behind Ducati riders Andrea Dovizioso of Italy and Jorge Lorenzo of Spain, reports Efe.

"We will try to be fast from the start of the weekend and then fight up at the front," the 25-year-old said at a press conference in Vienna.

"Austria is another track where Dovizioso and Lorenzo are strong, but we were also strong there last year, so we'll see if it comes down to the last corner again!" he added.

Marquez also raised safety awareness, stating: "People sometimes forget how vital is to wear the proper gear and not drink before riding, and anytime possible I try and give my input about the importance of being fit and lucid before riding."

The race in Austria is set to take place at the Red Bull Ring from August 10-12.

--IANS

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Venezuelan authorities have identified the masterminds behind an alleged assassination attempt on President Nicolas Maduro using explosive drones, according to a top official.

Attorney General Tarek William Saab said on Monday that an ongoing investigation into the incident that took place on August 4 has yielded the locations from where the explosive drones were piloted, as well as the arrests of two of the drone pilots, reports CNN.

"We also know the places where they stayed in the days leading to the attack. We have identified the people who made the explosives and prepared the weapons and their international links," Saab said.

He further said the alleged assassination constituted a "betrayal to the motherland, intentional homicide attempt, terrorism, association to commit a crime and financing terrorism".

Saab's announcement comes a day after Interior Minister Nestor Reverol said six people had been arrested in connection with the attack. They were charged with "terrorism and assassination".

Maduro survived the assault, during which drones armed with explosives flew toward him as he spoke at a military parade, CNN reported.

He blamed the attack on far-right elements and Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos.

Attackers used two DJI M600 drones, each carrying a kilogram of C-4 explosive.

DJI, the Chinese company that makes the drone, said its products are "purely for peaceful purposes" and that it stands ready to assist investigators.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Probe attacks on protesters, journos: EU

The European Union (EU) on Tuesday expressed concern over violent scenes in the city in recent days and sought investigation into the actions against protesters and journalists to hold perpetrators accountable.

"Incidents of unlawful or disproportionate violence or action against protestors, journalists or others need to stop; those that happened must be investigated and perpetrators be held accountable," they said.

The EU envoys in Dhaka in a joint statement said, "The government's recognition of the need for action is

a welcome step and we, therefore, expect further government action to address this without delay."

They said, the school-children's protests highlighted fears over road safety and the enforcement of laws and regulations on the roads in Bangladesh.

The EU Heads of Mission stressed that the violent scenes in Dhaka in recent days, particularly where school children and young people have been caught in protests or violent clashes with other groups, are a source of real concern.

"We expect all sides to remain calm and to respect the right to peaceful protest," they said.

The signatories to the statement are Alison Blake, High Commissioner, British High Commission, Mikael Hemniti Winther, Ambassador, Royal Danish Embassy, D Alvaro de Salas Gimenez de Azcarate, Ambassador, Embassy of Spain, Jean-Pierre Poncet, Charge d' Affaires, Embassy of France. Giuseppe Semenza, Charge; d' Affaires, Embassy of Italy, Michael Schultheiss, Charge d' Affaires , Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, Anders Ohrstrom Charge d' Affaires , Embassy of Sweden, Jeroen Steeghs, Charge d' Affaires, Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Konstantinos Vardakis, Charge d' Affaires, Delegation of the European Union.
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Tuesday batted for reservation in government jobs for the economically weaker upper castes and Muslims and other minorities.

She said if the Modi government brought a Bill to give 18 per cent or more reservation to the poor from the upper castes, MuslimS and other minority groups, her party will be the first to support it.

Welcoming the passage of The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018 in the Lok Sabha, the four-time Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister also expressed hope that the Bill will sail through the Rajya Sabha comfortably.

She, however, credited the pressure built by her party and the sacrificeS of the Dalits who participated in the April 2 'Bharat Bandh' for the development.

"The voice of the Dalits and the marginalised along with the BSP cadres forced the government at the Centre to bring in this Bill," Mayawati said.

She pointed out how an NDA Minister (Ram Vilas Paswan) was forced to announce a sit-in to compel the government to act against the dilution of the SC/ST Act by the Supreme Court.

She, however, slammed other leaders of parties in the National Democratic Alliance government for keeping mum on the issue that was close to the heart of millions of Dalits.

--IANS

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Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday expressed his grief over the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M. Karunanidhi.

"Karunanidhi, the DMK patriarch, was one of India's longest serving politicians, and will be remembered for his contributions to the Tamil society and the country as a whole in terms of political movement, literature and theatre," Sangma said in his condolences message.

"Karunanidhi will be remembered by the people across the political spectrum for fighting for the rights of the State governments, state autonomy and federalism," the Chief Minister said.

Sangma added: "It was Karunanidhi who secured the right for the Chief Ministers to hoist the national flag on Independence Day."

A five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi, 94, passed away at the Kauvery Hospital in Chennai on Tuesday evening.

He was admitted to the hospital on July 28.

--IANS

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Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Tuesday demanded an apology from Congress leader Shashi Tharoor for remarking that Prime Minister Narendra Modi wore "outlandish" and "hilarious" Naga headgears but refused to wear a Muslim skull cap.

"We (Nagas) have rich heritage and vibrant culture. We are proud of our history and traditions. The Naga headgear is renowned and gifted with honour, definitely not outlandish," Rio told IANS before his meeting with Modi.

"Every Indian is proud of the rich diversity. This diversity is our pride and our strength and mutual respect makes India a great nation," the Naga leader said.

"He (Tharoor) must aplogize and withdrew statements that hurt others' sentiments," Rio added.

The Naga Hoho, an apex Naga tribal body, also demanded an unconditional apology to the Naga people from Tharoor for what it said an abuse of Modi for wearing Naga headgear. Tharoor's comments, he said, were "inexcusable from a person of such a stature".

"His statement, though meant to be humorous, showed the 'contemptuous mentality' of some of the mainstream Indians towards the Northeast and in particular the Nagas," Naga Hoho President P. Chuba Ozukum said.

"Even in the past, Congress leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi had worn Naga headgears and traditional dresses, keeping in mind that India was a democratic secular country, but no political party or individual showed such 'disregard and impudence' as that of Tharoor," he added.

The Naga Hoho also appealed to Congress leaders from Nagaland to find out the details and contact the persons and authority concerned towards resolving the controversial statement amicably on this pertinent issue.

Addressing a seminar, the Thiruvananthapuram MP said: "Why does our Prime Minister, who wears all sorts of outlandish headgears wherever he goes around the country and around the world, but always refuses to wear a Muslim skull cap?

"You see him in hilarious Naga headgears and feathers. You see him in various kinds of extraordinary outfits, which is a right thing for a Prime Minister to do. India Gandhi has also been photographed wearing various kinds of costumes. But why he still always says no to one?

"Why does he refuse to wear green, the colour that he says is identified with Muslim appeasement? What kind of talk it is?" Tharoor said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Rajya Sabha Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday expressed concern over members' absence from the House during passage of a Bill that accords constitutional status to the OBC Commission.

"Yesterday (Monday), I was just thinking and also calculating. We were exactly a little above the mark. That's all. Otherwise, you could not have got it approved . Please keep that in mind," he said.

The Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2018 granting constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes.

All 156 members present in the House voted for the Bill. Te present strength of the House is 244.

Terming the Bill historic, he said: "I also felt very happy. Even I tweeted also about giving constitutional status to the OBC Commission. On such a Constitutional Amendment where there is unanimity, where there is concern, we just scraped through," he said.

On such matters, parties should caution its members by issuing whips and directing them to be there in time and also vote.

"If somebody takes note of it and then write some commentary, it will be a sad commentary on our functioning. Please take note, whenever there is important legislation in Parliament, be present in large numbers so that a message goes to the society," he remarked.

The Chairman also took strong note of the ministers making statement on behalf of their colleagues.

"I will not allow any statement made by any minister on behalf of any other," he said.

Taking note of the members coming late after the proceedings start, he requested them to be punctual.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
National leaders on Tuesday condoled the death of DMK President M. Karunanidhi, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi announcing they would attend his last rites in Chennai on Wednesday.

Leaders across party lines expressed grief over the death of the former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister including President Ram Nath Kovind, Modi, Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

"Extremely sad... A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers," President Kovind wrote on Twitter.

Modi expressed his anguish in a series of tweets.

"Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalized.

"Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadu's voice was effectively heard," Modi said.

Modi said he had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi on several occasions. "His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered."

Rahul Gandhi said India lost a great son, who strode the stage of Tamil like a colossus for over six decades.

"In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader," he said.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee said Karunanidhi will be deeply missed.

"Sixty years a legislator, five times CM and a pillar of many coalitions at the Centre, he influenced his state's and the national like few others. My deepest condolences to his family and admirers," Mukherjee tweeted.

BJP President Amit Shah said no one can forget his struggle during the Emergency.

Among other national leaders, Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechury also condoled the death of the DMK stalwart.

Karunanidhi, 94, passed away on Tuesday evening. He was admitted to the hospital on July 28 and his condition worsened on Monday.

--IANS

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(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Tuesday said both the NDA and the Opposition have sought its support for their candidates to the post of the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson. The election is slated for Thursday.

BJP president Amit Shah, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar on Tuesday spoke with Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik separately.

They sought BJD's support for NDA's nominee and JD(U) leader Harivansh Narayan Singh for the deputy chairperson's post.

"JD-U president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar spoke to Naveen Patnaik and requested his support for the JD-U candidate. In the 2012 Presidential election, though, the BJD had requested JD-U to support P.A. Sangma, but they did not," said BJD spokesperson Sasmit Patra.

However, the BJD will make a final announcement on Wednesday as per the decision of party president Naveen Patnaik, he said.

He also said that BJP President Amit Shah, Union Minister Rajnath Singh and NCP leader Sharad Pawar had spoken to Naveen Patnaik.

NCP's Vandana Chavan is the Opposition candidate for the post.

Since no party has the required strength, BJD's nine MPs in the Rajya Sabha is significant for the NDA or the opposition parties.

"The BJD now plays a pivotal role at the national level. It is noteworthy as to how a regional party can assume significance at the national-level politics," said Patra.

IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union Minister Anant Geete on Tuesday said the country needs to "move ahead with E-Mobility" and to go from low emissions to no emissions.

The Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises spoke at the national conference and technology display on "Electric Mobility - Scaling up Auto Component Industry in India" held here.

The minister said: "We need to develop a mindset and move ahead with E-Mobility. We have to move from low emission to 'no emission'".

"The government of India will support the R&D which will be required to tackle all obstacles. India is emerging as the biggest market in the world. So, we have to safeguard the interests of our consumers and the industries while moving towards our goal."

The one day conference was organised by the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA).

According to Sunjay Kapur, Managing Director, Sona BLW Precision Forgings and the Conference Chairman, electric mobility will bring about a complete transformation of the entire industry value chain, once it gains wider acceptance.

"Though there are several aspects of disruption in the automobile industry, electrification remains one of the key factors. The way forward as we all agree is electric mobility," Kapur said.

"With FAME-II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India) we expect the policy to enable localisation that helps grow the auto component sector."

Anil Srivastava, Adviser and DG, Development Monitoring and Evaluation Office (DMEO), NITI Aayog, said that states are working together proactively to move in the direction of electric mobility.

"Globally, the entire emphasis on the movement of people is shifting. E-Mobility is gaining increased importance in day to day activities and the economic activities of the country," Srivastava said.

--IANS

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(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba on Tuesday asked a visiting seven-member Nepal Armed Police Force delegation to improve coordination between security forces of the two countries.

During a meeting with the delegation, Gauba exhorted Shailendra Khanal, Inspector General of Nepal Armed Police Force, to improve the coordination between the two forces through joint patrolling, common training of armed forces officers, regular border meetings and other means, said a Home Ministry statement.

Gauba stated that India-Nepal relationship derived strength from shared history, trade, economic partnership, cultural ties and close and intense people-to-people contact. He also appreciated excellent cooperation between security forces of the two countries.

Khanal, who is heading the delegation, also appreciated the coordination between the two countries and emphasised the need for periodic coordination meetings and common training courses for armed police officers of two countries.

The delegation is on official visit here from August 7 to 10 for the 3rd India-Nepal Coordination meeting with Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal -- the 94,000 strong force mandated to guard 1,751 km India-Nepal and 699 km India-Bhutan borders.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The NIA has arrested Mohammed Jahidul Islam, leader of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), here for his involvement in Bihar's Bodh Gaya explosion, the anti-terror agency said on Tuesday.

A team of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested Islam, also known as Kausar, Munna, Mizan and Boma Miyan, during a raid at his Ramanagara house here on Sunday.

"Some electronic devices and traces of explosives were seized from his house," NIA Spokersperson Alok Mittal said.

The official said Islam is a top leader of JMB in India and is also wanted in the October 2,2014 Burdwan blast case and in many other cases in Bangladesh also.

He is the master mind of the Bodh Gaya blast near Kalachakra Maidan. NIA filed an FIR in the case on February 3.

The officer said on Islam's directive Mustafizur Rehman alias Shahin, one his close associates, had arranged and assembled all the explosives for the incident.

A low intensity bomb blast took place near Kalchakra ground in Bodh Gaya on January 19 when the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama was present in town. A couple of crude bombs and large quantity of explosives were also recovered from the place.

Islam was produced before a special NIA court in Bengaluru which sent him to five-day transit remand. He will now be produced before a special NIA court in Bihar's Patna.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Tamil actor-filmmaker turned politician Kamal Haasan on Tuesday said he had no animosity with the BJP as his newly launched Makkal Needhi Maiam was yet to take a decision on any alliance with any political grouping or a party in the country.

"I have met BJP leaders. We have our ideological differences with the BJP (but) there is no animosity," Kamal said.

He said he launched Makkal Needhi Maiam on February 21 to start a fresh round of in the country "and at the moment I have not considered coalition with any party".

At an interaction with News18, he said he had tried to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi but "I did not get the time".

Kamal paid homage to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK chief M. Karunanidhi whom he described as "the teacher of all the actors".

"Karunanidhi has had a wonderful political career of 70 years. His mistakes in and his success are a lesson for us."

--IANS

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Japan asked Myanmar to speed up house construction

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali and visiting Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono holding talks on bilateral issues at the State Guest House Padma on Tuesday evening.

UNB, Dhaka :

Japan has asked Myanmar to speed up the construction of houses, schools and other infrastructures in Rakhine to ensure the proper shelter of Rohingyas after their repatriation from Bangladesh.

Visiting Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono said when he met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday at her official residence Ganobhaban.

PM's press secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed reporters after the meeting.

During the recent visit of Japanese Foreign Minister to Myanmar, he had meetings with Myanmar President Win Myint and State Councilor Aung San Suu Kyi, said Ihsanul Karim.

Taro Kono also asked them to return the internally displaced Rohingyas from different parts of their country to their original place.

He mentioned that both Myanmar President and Suu Kyi informed him that they have an MoU with Bangladesh regarding the return of the Rohingyas.
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M. Karunanidhi.

Offering his heartfelt condolences to the departed leader, Patnaik described Karunanidhi as the tallest leader of Tamil Nadu, who played a key role in social change and reforms in his state.

"In fact, he was much ahead of his times. As Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for several times, he made significant contributions in the development of the state and played a crucial role in national as well," said the Chief Minister.

He also made immense contributions to Tamil literature and cinema. His demise marks the end of an era in Tamil Nadu and India lost one of its worthiest sons, said Patnaik.

The 94-year-old politician breathed his last at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday.

Patnaik prayed peace and tranquility for the departed soul and expressed sympathies to the family members.

Finance Minister Shasibhusan Behera and former Minister Devi Prasad Mishra will attend the funeral of late Karunanidhi, said a communique from Chief Minister's Office.

IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
After foraying into the international market with a drive into Australia earlier this year, Indian ride-hailing major Ola on Tuesday revealed its plans to enter the European market by starting operations in Britain within the next month.

Ola said it has obtained licences to operate in South Wales and Greater Manchester, and will launch operations in South Wales within the next month.

The company said it plans to expand the UK operations nationwide by the end of this year.

"Ola is excited to announce its plans for the UK, one of the world's most evolved transportation markets," Bhavish Aggarwal, Co-Founder and CEO of Ola, said in a statement.

"We look forward to our continued engagement with policymakers and regulators as we expand across the country and build a company embedded in the UK," Aggarwal said.

Founded in 2011, Ola has been competing against Uber in the ride-hailing market.

Ola's entry into Britain follows its successful launch in Australia in February 2018, where it now operates in seven major cities.

Over 40,000 drivers across Australia have registered since its launch in February and have completed millions of rides, Ola said, adding that it now conducts one billion rides each year globally, with more than 1 million driver partners and 125 million customers in over 110 cities.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Over 20,000 Afghan refugees have returned or have been deported from neighbouring Pakistan and Iran during the period of July 29 to August 4, the UN Migration Agency said on Tuesday.

A total of 19,513 Afghans have reportedly arrived in the country in this period from Iran, 5 per cent less than the previous week, reports Xinhua news agency.

Meanwhile, 954 Afghans have returned from Pakistan.

"This number marks a 700 per cent increase compared to the previous week (137)," the agency said.

The agency has provided post-arrival humanitarian assistance, including food and other essential items to the returnees.

More than 463,000 Afghan refugees have returned from the two countries since January 1.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A 24-year-old man, on death row for the rape and murder of six-year-old Zainab Amin in Pakistan earlier this year, has been given death penalty on five more counts for the rape and murder of two other girls.

The sentence was announced by an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in a trial held inside a prison on Monday.

Imran Ali, a resident of Kasur city, was involved in at least nine incidents of rape-cum-murder of minors, including Zainab, which he had confessed to during her murder investigation, Dawn online reported on Tuesday.

Ali was also ordered to pay a massive fine. His failure to pay the fine will result in an additional six months of imprisonment, the court said.

On Saturday, he was given death sentence on 12 counts for the rape and murder of three other minor girls. Three more cases remain pending against Ali.

Zainab's rape and murder had sparked outrage and protests across the country. The girl went missing on January 4 and was found dead in a trash heap in Kasur on January 9.

The government had declared Ali's arrest on January 23. He was given death sentence for Zainab's rape and murder in February.

He challenged it but the apex court rejected his appeal on June 12, saying that the petitioner had admitted committing similar offences with eight other minor victims.

Ali still has the right to seek clemency from President Mamnoon Hussain.

--IANS

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The Supreme court on Tuesday asked Assam's National Register of Citizens (NRC) coordinator Prateek Hajela to focus on an error-free final NRC, instead of giving interviews to the media.

The bench of Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman warned Hajela and Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RGCC) Shailesh, to be "cautious in future". Hajela had told the media that any valid document would be accepted as proof of citizenship during the hearing on complaints by those left out in the draft NRC.

Taking suo motu cognizance of Hajela's interview to a national daily, Justice Gogoi said: "Where is the necessity, scope and authority in you to make such a statement? Your job is to carry on with the draft and prepare the final NRC."

The court told Hajela that he was first an officer of the court and should not have spoken to media about the NRC.

"It is most unfortunate on your part as well as the RGCC. Your job is to prepare the final NRC. Your job is not to go to press holding brief for somebody," the bench said.

The court reminded RGCC Shailesh that on an earlier occasion too he was warned by the court on his actions vis-a-vis preparation of the NRC.

--IANS

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North Korea repatriated a South Korean citizen on Tuesday through the border village of Panmunjom in a "positive humanitarian" move, Seoul's Unification Ministry said.

In a message to Seoul a day earlier, Pyongyang claimed the 34-year-old citizen had illegally entered the country on July 22, reports Yonhap News Agency.

On Monday, the North's Red Cross informed the South of a plan to send him back. Seoul accepted the offer.

The citizen is under investigation by South Korean authorities as to why and how he entered the North. He left for China on July 22, an informed source said.

Six South Korean nationals, including three missionaries, remain detained in the communist nation.

--IANS

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of DMK veteran leader M. Karunanidhi, saying India has lost a great son, who strode the stage of Tamil like a colossus for over six decades.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," Gandhi said in a tweet.

Karunanidhi, 94, passed away on Tuesday evening. He was admitted to the hospital on July 28 and his condition worsened on Monday.

--IANS

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his "silence" on the cases of rapes in the country, especially in shelter homes in Muzaffarpur in Bihar and Deoria in Uttar Pradesh, and said that the atrocities against women have pushed the country behind by 3,000 years.

He also taunted the Modi government over its 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' (save daughters, educate daughters) programme and questioned as to from whom the daughters should be saved.

"In Uttar Pradesh when women are raped, the Prime Minister cannot speak a single word," Gandhi said while addressing the Mahila Adhikar Sammelan organised by his party here.

"In Jharkhand, he goes and speaks on issues like bullet train, toilets, aeroplanes and other issues but he does not speak a line about women. He remains silent when there are any number of atrocities against women or cases of rape," he said.

Slamming Modi for his silence on Bihar's Muzaffarpur shelter home rape case, Gandhi said, "a number of minor girls were raped in Bihar. But he cannot speak a single word condemning the incident, while his party members defend the accused."

"In UP, their MLA is a rape accused but the Prime Minister and the BJP President do not speak a word against it," he said, referring to the BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar, who has been arrested by the CBI in a rape case in April this year.

"It has become a trend that every woman in India comes out of her home with fear. When, in front of the Prime Minister, it is said that your country is not safe for women and your government is unable to provide security to the women, he cannot speak a word," he said.

He can go around the world and hug the leaders but he cannot explain why women are not safe in India. He has talked about changing India. He talked about 70 years of Congress rule. He was correct because what is happening to women in the last four years did not happen in last 3,000 years, leave alone 70 years," he said.

Gandhi also said that the Modi government brought a programme named 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'. We could not understand from whom they were trying to save the daughters. We have to save the daughters from the BJP MLAs," Gandhi remarked.

"You would be surprised that only Rs 40 lakh per district is given to save women under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao programme. It is shameful. They ended MGNREGA. Lakhs and crores of women were benefited by the scheme. They said that there is no benefit of MGNREGA," he lamented.

The Congress leader also slammed Modi for not bringing the Women's Reservation Bill in Parliament.

"If they bring the Women's Reservation Bill in Parliament, then Congress will support it. And if the government fails to bring the Bill in the House and if we come to power we shall get it passed in Parliament," Gandhi said.

He also said that Congress was working with other opposition parties to fight the ideological battle against the "purely male-chauvinist" BJP and RSS.

Making a stinging attack on the saffron parties, Gandhi said the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parent organisation Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) was so male dominated ideologically that it had no place for women.

Blaming the BJP-led Central government, he said there was no institution or minority community in the country which was not under attack under its rule.

Gandhi said the Congress was committed to protecting all institutions and communities and was working with all opposition parties on ideological basis to fight the BJP and RSS.

"The BJP is devastating our country and damaging our institutions. There is no institution in the country which is not under attack.

"Minorities, Dalits, women and tribals: all of them are under attack. It is our responsibility to protect them all and we will not back down. We will defeat the BJP," the Congress President said.

--IANS

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An officer of the Rajasthan Administrative Services (RAS), Binni Sharma (35), was found dead on Tuesday at her residence in AG Colony of the city, police said, adding her body was found hanging from a ceiling fan.

Police have recovered a suicide note in which Sharma has blamed her husband and mother-in-law for "spoiling her life".

Bajaj Nagar Station House Officer (SHO) Raisal Singh said they handed the body to her family members after a post-mortem.

Singh said the officer was living at her parents' place with her two sons aged 8 and 1.5 years. Her husband Gurmeet Waliya is an IAS officer posted in Chandigarh, he added.

No FIR has been filed, police said, adding they were awaiting the arrival of the victim's husband who has been informed of the incident.

Sharma was an RAS officer and was posted in Jaipur's revenue department in the GST section, police said, adding further investigations are on.

--IANS

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A Parliamentary panel on Tuesday said RBI's new guidelines on default will worsen the crisis in the power sector and suggested changes.

"The new guidelines of the RBI will only deepen the crisis of the electricity sector as its leitmotif is distinct, peculiar and sector specific without any generic underpinning with other sectors of the economy," the Standing Committee on Energy said in its report.

The high rate of non-performing assets (NPA) in Indian banks is sector specific with major concentration in sectors like infrastructure, power, iron, steel and textile. Total NPA in power sector has exceeded Rs 1.8 lakh crore.

The panel noted that the definition of default has been revised and the same has been aligned to the definition of default given in Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC).

The committee, headed by Lok Sabha MP Kambhampati Haribabu, said the reasons of stress in different sectors are separate and varying, and thus needs a closer look.

For the power sector, factors like coal linkage, delay in implementation, non-availability of fuel, delay in land/environment clearances and need of extra funds have aggravated the problem and weak financial health of distribution companies have impacted their liquidity position, it said.

"The committee postulates that the specifics and realities of the sector should be taken into account for appropriate modulation of the RBI Guidelines," the report said.

The committee said it has learnt that finding an optimal solution for a stressed asset exactly in 180 days is almost impossible and that lending institutions have stated that 12 months are needed for a smooth and efficient resolution.

"The Committee feels that going by the prescribed timelines, every stressed project of the power sector will ultimately land in National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

About 66 GW of conventional energy is under various degrees of financial stress which include 54,805 MW of coal based power (44 assets), 6,831 MW of gas based power (nine assets) and 4,571 MW of hydro power (13 assets), it added.

--IANS

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The Tripura and Mizoram governments along with the Centre are making arrangements for the repatriation of 32,876 tribal refugees to Mizoram starting next week, officials said on Tuesday.

"A meeting of Central, Mizoram and Tripura government officials would be held on Thursday at Damchanra (in northern Tripura) to finalise a 'road map' to repatriate the Reang tribal refugees to Mizoram immediately after Independence Day," Kanchanpur Sub-Divisional Magistrate Sajal Biswas told IANS.

"District Magistrates of three Mizoram districts (Mamit, Lunglei and Kolasib), north Tripura districts and a joint secretary level officer of the Union Home Ministry would attend the meeting to decide the strategies," he added.

After a series of meetings, an agreement to repatriate the tribals and look to their settlement was signed on July 3 in New Delhi.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb and his Mizoram counterpart Lal Thanhawla along with officials of the Mizoram Bru Displaced People's Forum (MBDPF) were present during the signing.

As per the agreement, the tribals, comprising 5,407 families, would start returning to their homes from August 16 or 17. The multi-phase repatriation process would be completed by September 30.

The agreement also finalised a six-point benefit package for each family.

However, two weeks after the signing, refugee leaders said the tribals were unwilling to return unless their old demands, including the formation of an Area Development Council, were met.

The MBDPF is the apex organisation of the refugees, locally known as "Bru", who have been living in six makeshift camps in Kanchanpur and Panisagar sub-divisions adjoining Mizoram, for the past 21 years.

The tribals fled their homes in October 1997 after a Mizo forest official was killed.

Meanwhile, Communist Party of India-Marxist Lok Sabha Chief Whip Jitendra Chowdhury urged the Centre not to repatriate the refugees without settlement of the land and other issues.

"Without settling the basic and genuine issues of the tribals including land, livelihood and security, the refugees should not be repatriated. I raised the issue in Lok Sabha last week. But the government is yet to respond," Chowdhury told IANS on Tuesday over phone from Delhi.

--IANS

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August 6 is etched in an apocalyptic manner on the global consciousness given the nuclear enormity that engulfed the unsuspecting residents of Japan's Hiroshima on that day in 1945. Three days later Nagasaki met the same fate, though tragically August 9 receives even lesser attention from a jaded world whose attention span often oscillates from one tweet to another.

The "national herd" in every major demographic cluster is episodically led from one sensational but banal event to another and the collective danger that the nuclear weapon poses to humanity is glossed over, with a fleeting reference on Hiroshima Day when platitudes are dutifully mouthed by the political leadership across the world.

The year 2018 is a bit different, but in an alarming way. Prickly nuclear nationalism now rules the roost and the charge has been led by the world's oldest and most powerful democracy. On July 23, US President Donald Trump tweeted -- as is his wont -- to Iranian President Rouhani, and this one was in all caps:

NEVER, EVER THREATEN THE UNITED STATES AGAIN OR YOU WILL SUFFER CONSEQUENCES THE LIKES OF WHICH FEW THROUGHOUT HISTORY HAVE EVER SUFFERED BEFORE. WE ARE NO LONGER A COUNTRY THAT WILL STAND FOR YOUR DEMENTED WORDS OF VIOLENCE & DEATH. BE CAUTIOUS!

Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump)

To be fair to Trump, this tweet was in response to what the Iranian President Hassan Rouhani had said the previous day (July 22) when he warned Washington that provoking Tehran over the nuclear deal could lead to the "mother of all wars". The Iranian reference was in no doubt -- it was invoking the spectre of WMDs -- long-range missiles fitted with nuclear warheads.

Over the last year, the global nuclear arsenal has increased in numbers among the nine nations in the world that are nuclear-weapon capable. This apocalyptic club that holds the world to ransom includes the original five - the US, Russia, UK, France and China. Post-1964, the other four who have joined this "club" are Israel, India, Pakistan and now North Korea. Today the most serious national security threat to the US is deemed to be a mix of the nuclear weapon and terrorism as posed by non-state entities -- often with state support.

Paradoxically, over the last year, Pakistan, often referred to as the cradle and nursery of global terrorism, has the distinction of possessing the world's fastest-growing nuclear weapon arsenal. Much of this capability has been enabled by a deep and opaque partnership with China and North Korea.

Furthermore, Pakistan is the only nation among the nuclear nine wherein the command and control of the nuclear button rests with the Pakistan military and the civilian leadership is only notionally in the loop. Whether Imran Khan, if he becomes the Prime Minister, will be able to assert civilian control remains moot. There are many voices even within Pakistan that believe a mercurial Khan may not be the most prudent choice, when it comes to nuclear weapons.

However, on the other hand, such prudence at the very top of national political leadership, while desirable, went out of the window with the election of Trump as US President, a leader who recently boasted about the size of his "button" apropos his North Korean counterpart.

The deeper concern in 2018 is that nuclear weapons are being brandished in a far more visible manner and the leaders of the US, Russia, Iran and North Korea are cases in point. Each of them has justified this posture as a case of safeguarding their national security, sovereignty and integrity. The consequences that will follow by way of an apocalyptic regional nuclear fallout with millions -- yes, millions -- killed receive little or no attention.

The greater anguish is that the global political leadership remains indifferent to such nuclear sabre-rattling and has done an ostrich act by treating these statements as political rhetoric (bluff and bluster?) and devoid of substance. And civil society, which in the 1960s and 1970s was alert to the gravity of the nuclear threat, is now cynical. The nuclear threat joins the cluster of many lost causes -- global warming, ocean pollution, the plastic peril and shrinking bee population among other amber lights that are flashing.

One slender sliver that followed the focus put by former US President Barack Obama on the nuclear threat is the effort by the ICAN -- the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons -- that was launched in 2007. This global NGO comprising almost 500 partners from 100 countries has pushed for an international treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons. Elimination of the global nuclear arsenal is the Holy Grail and in 2017 ICAN successfully negotiated and concluded this treaty at the UN.

ICAN was awarded the 2017 Nobel Peace prize for its effort but the major powers, including India, have distanced themselves from this advocacy. Thus the ICAN initiative, while laudable, remains ineffective.

Ironically, India, which has legitimately claimed a distinctive nuclear status in the global order, has ceded the disarmament space it once led from 1960 to 2010. India is a non-signatory to the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT) and demonstrated its nuclear-weapon capability in May 1998. Pakistan followed and South Asia exudes a nuclear prickliness that is disquieting.

Based on its nuclear profile that combines nuclear restraint and responsibility, India was admitted to the global nuclear order in late 2008, thanks in large measure to the political resolve of then US President George Bush.

While New Delhi remains committed to "universal, non-discriminatory and verifiable nuclear disarmament", it has made no significant effort in the last few years to demonstrate its status as a "different" kind of nuclear-weapon power. ICAN is a case in point.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought commendable traction to the challenge of global terrorism since assuming office in May 2014 but has remained relatively reticent on the nuclear issue. One hopes that the Indian leadership will address the nuclear issue at the global level with the urgency it warrants, so that Hiroshima-Nagasaki remain the tragic exception.

(The author is Director, Society for Policy Studies, New Delhi. The article is in special arrangement with South Asia Monitor)

--IANS

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The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted a month's time to Uttarakhand and a week to Uttar Pradesh to file their compliance reports on the implementation of the 2016 Act on the rights of persons with disabilities.

A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra posted the mater for hearing in September.

On January 25, the apex court had asked all states and union territories to implement within three months the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and file compliance reports.

The court was hearing a plea by Justice Sunanda Bhandare Foundation for directions to the Central government and all states to implement the Act.

During the hearing, foundation counsel Manali Singhal told the court that Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Haryana, and Uttarakhand have not filed affidavits.

The counsel for Karnataka and Haryana told the court that their compliance reports were ready and that they would file these during the day.

The Uttarakhand government sought four weeks to file the report while Uttar Pradesh sought a week's time, which the court granted.

The court also asked the petitioner to prepare a chart stating which issues in the Act were not complied with so that it can pass orders.

In 2016, amendments were made to the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995, and the apex court had asked the states and UTs to implement the provisions of the amended Act.

Compared with the 1995 Act, new provisions in the 2016 law had expanded the horizon of the rights of such persons, Singhal said.

The apex court had last year asked states to "scrupulously" follow the 2016 Act which, it said, had brought about a "sea change in the perception" and exhibited a march forward for persons with disabilities.

--IANS

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A major controversy erupted on Tuesday night after the Tamil Nadu government declined DMK's request to allot space for burying the mortal remains of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi near party founder C.N. Annadurai's memorial at the Marina Beach.

The party filed an urgent petition before acting Chief Justice of Madras High Court Kuluvadi Ramesh to press for a burial place on the Marina.

DMK workers resorted to violence after news broke out that Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan had declined the request due to legal issues.

Police had to use force to control the cadres even as Karunanidhi's body was shifted to his Gopalapuram residence.

According to Vaidyanathan, Chief Minister K. Palaniswami said two acres land would be allotted for Karunanidhi's burial near Gandhi Mandapam on Sardar Patel Road which already houses memorials for K. Kamaraj and others.

Earlier, family members of Karunanidhi led by DMK Working President M.K. Stalin and party officials met Palaniswami and sought space near Annadurai's memorial for burying Karunanidhi's body.

The government decision drew flak from opposition leaaders including MDMK's Vaiko, DMDK's Vijayakanth and PMK's S. Ramadoss who favoured a memorial on the Marina. Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad and the CPI(M) also joined the chorus.

A five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi died after battling age related ailments at Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday evening.

The mortal remains of AIADMK founder M.G. Ramachandran and his successor J. Jayalalithaa are buried near Annadurai's memorial on the Marina Beach.

--IANS

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The Rajya Sabha was on Tuesday adjourned for the day amid protests by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) members who came near the Chairman's podium shouting slogans, causing repeated adjournments in the post-lunch sitting and not allowing BJP President Amit Shah to speak.

The high drama also saw Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu almost naming the TMC MPs and ordering their removal from the House.

As soon as the House met at 2 p.m, Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu called out BJP President Amit Shah to speak on a short duration discussion on hiked MSP for farmers and the agricultural situation.

Just then, TMC Member Nadimul Haque stood up and asked about a notice his party had given under Rule 267. Naidu said their issue would be taken up on Wednesday first thing.

Shah then started speaking on the Minimum Support Price (MSP) announced by the government for the kharif crop. He had spoken only for a few minutes when TMC MPs trooped near the Chairmana's podium and started shouting slogans.

The BJP Ministers stood up and protested against the TMC members' conduct. MoS Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel asked the Chair to name the protesting MPs.

Amid the ruckus, Naidu adjourned the House for 10 minutes.

As soon as the House was reconvened at 2:24 p.m., the TMC MPs again trooped near the Chair's podium.

On this, Naidu read out Rule 255 from the rule book on the conduct of the Rajya Sabha that empowers the Chairman to name an MP disrupting the proceedings and tell him to withdraw from the House for the entire day.

At this, the Congress MPs stood up and loudly protested against any such step by the Chair.

Naidu then asked the floor leaders of various parties one by one whether the discussion on farmers' distress should be continued or not. Almost every floor leader cutting across party lines, barring the Congress, RJD and AAP, opined that the discussion should be continued.

Congress leader Anand Sharma said the discussion could be taken up when the House was in order. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) member Manoj Jha said the current situation of the House was like the "past revisiting us". An Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) member said the TMC should be heard first briefly.

The rest of the leaders including from the Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, CPI, AIADMK, Shiv Sena, SAD and others said the discussion should be allowed to continue.

Naidu adjourned the House till 3 p.m. But as soon as the House met at 3 p.m., it was adjourned for the day amid TMC sloganeering.

--IANS

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Within months of the Bharatiya Janata Partys victory in 2014 general elections, the then HRD Minister Smriti Irani, claims a new book, "met with senior RSS figures" who wanted "the essentials of the Indian culture" to be reflected in the school curriculum across the country.

This claim, along with an exploration of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) into its present form is presented in "The RSS: A View to the Inside" by Walter K. Andersen and Shridhar D. Damle, who had written "The Brotherhood In Saffron" in 1988.

"Attending the meeting was the influential RSS sah sarkaryavah (Dattatreya) Hosabale, who has taken the lead in the RSS on educational matters.

"A year later, on 6-7 September 2015, the education and culture ministers of the BJP-controlled states met with Irani and RSS participants to talk about a uniform educational policy in the states," claims the book, backed by an elaborate reference section.

The book further mentions that in view of the "importance of the HRD ministry in implementing the RSS goal of 'indianizing' education", the party selected Prakash Javadekar to replace the controversial Irani.

"Just a month after assuming his new post, Javadekar called a meeting that included senior RSS and BJP officials and other constituents of the sangh parivar engaged in education.

The motive of this meeting, says the book, was to discuss "the draft education policy earlier initiated by Irani" and to seek "suggestions to instill nationalism, pride and ancient Indian values in modern education".

The book points a finger to HRD minister's "appointments to sensitive cultural and academic bodies", mentioning that it aroused a chorus of criticism. It refers to the removal of Parvin Sinclair as the director of National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), and among others, the naming of Gajendra Chauhan as chair of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII).

"A direct strategy to create a competitive Hindutva intellectual narrative is reflected in the proliferation of RSS think tanks, eight of them in the Delhi region alone, that sprang up following the surprise BJP loss in the 2004 parliamentary elections.

"They have emerged as major players in the think tank world of Delhi in the wake of the BJP victory of 2014," the book says.

It also says that "who's who of the BJP and the Modi government", including Principal Secretary to the Prime minister Nripendra Misra, NITI Aayog members Bibek Debroy and V.K. Saraswat, BJP national executive member Bal Desai and ministers such as Suresh prabhu, Nirmala Sitharaman, Jayant Sinha and M.J. Akbar are associated with such think tanks.

The book, published by Penguin Random House, is priced at Rs 699 and is available both in stores and online.

--IANS

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Setting the stage for rolling out advanced memory technology to meet the growing demand for faster, more reliable performance across a wide span of applications, Samsung on Tuesday said it began mass producing the industry's first 4-bit SATA solid-state drive (SSD) for consumers.

The South Korean tech giant said it would launch several 4-bit consumer SSDs later this year with 1TB (terabyte), 2TB, and 4TB capacities in the widely used 2.5-inch form factor.

The new 4-bit quad-level cell (QLC) SSD is expected to bring a new level of efficiency to consumer SSDs.

"Samsung's new 4-bit SATA SSD will herald a massive move to terabyte-SSDs for consumers," said Jaesoo Han, Executive Vice President of Memory Sales and Marketing at Samsung Electronics.

"As we expand our line-up across consumer segments and to the enterprise, 4-bit terabyte-SSD products will rapidly spread throughout the entire market," Han added.

Typically, as data stored within a memory cell increases from three bits to four, the chip capacity per unit area would rise and the electrical charge (used to determine information from a sensor) would decrease by as much as 50 per cent, making it considerably more difficult to maintain a device's desired performance and speed.

However, Samsung's 4-bit 4TB QLC SATA SSD maintains its performance levels at the same level as a 3-bit SSD, by using a 3-bit SSD controller and TurboWrite technology, according to the company.

With its new 1Tb 4-bit V-NAND chip, Samsung said it will be able to efficiently produce a 128GB memory card for smartphones that will lead the charge toward higher capacities for high-performance memory storage.

--IANS

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Saudi Arabia's state airliner has suspended its direct flights to Toronto after Canada called for the release of detained activists for civil society and women's rights.

The Middle Eastern country has also frozen all trade and expelled Canada's ambassador over the "interference", BBC reported on Monday.

Canada has responded by saying it "will continue to advocate for human rights".

Those held include the Saudi-American human rights campaigner Samar Badawi, sister of jailed blogger Raif Badawi.

Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland said she was "deeply concerned" by the diplomat's expulsion, but added: "Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including women's rights and freedom of expression around the world.

"We will never hesitate to promote these values and we believe that this dialogue is critical to international diplomacy."

Her Saudi counterpart, Adel al-Jubeir, had earlier tweeted that Canada's position was based on "misleading information", adding that anyone arrested was "subject to Saudi laws that guarantee their rights".

The leading Saudi women's rights campaigner Manal al-Sharif thanked Canada for "speaking up" and asked when other Western powers would do the same.

In what appeared to be a further sign of deteriorating relations between the two countries, a verified Twitter account, which is reportedly linked to Saudi authorities, shared an image of a plane flying towards Toronto's famed CN Tower.

The image was overlaid with text, including a quote which read "he who with what doesn't concern him finds what doesn't please him".

People on social media have been quick to point out the similarities between the image and images of 9/11.

The account has since been deleted, but cached versions of the tweet are circulating online.

--IANS

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Pakistan's former Army Chief General Raheel Sharif did not obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Cabinet before leaving for Saudi Arabia to head a 41-nation military alliance, the attorney general informed the apex court on Tuesday.

During the hearing of a suo motu case regarding dual nationality of civil servants and judges, Attorney General Khalid Jawed Khan said that as per the law, the NOC is issued by the federal government to government officers willing to join service in foreign lands, Dawn online reported.

"As per law, it is required for the NOC to be approved by the federal Cabinet," the attorney told the three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar.

The Supreme Court on August 1 sought a report from the government asking how it allowed General (retd) Raheel Sharif and former Director-General Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt. Gen. (retd) Ahmed Shuja Pasha take up foreign jobs in violation of a law that restrained government officers from doing so for two years post-retirement.

Gen. Sharif left for Riyadh in April 2017 to head the military alliance led by Saudi Arabia. He retired in 2016.

The Attorney General presented the legal perspective after Defence Secretary Lt. Gen. (retd) Zamirul Hassan informed the court that it was the Defence Ministry which had granted NOC to Gen. Sharif after General Headquarters cleared him to accept the post of commander of the Islamic alliance.

Speaking about Lt. Gen. Pasha, the Defence Secretary told the court that the former ISI Director General informed in his reply that he is "currently unemployed".

Earlier, media reports said the former ISI chief, after his retirement in 2012, worked with a multinational firm in the UAE. He is now serving as a group chief adviser to a Lahore-based firm owned by a Pakistani politician.

The Defence Secretary also told the bench that Army had began an exercise to identify those with foreign citizenship even though the law prohibited Army personnel from possessing dual nationality.

The court will resume hearing the case after the summer vacation.

--IANS

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The Supreme Court on Tuesday told Assam's National Register of Citizens (NRC) Coordinator Prateek Hajela to ensure an error-free final NRC, instead of giving interviews to the media.

The bench of Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman warned Hajela, and Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RGCC) Sailesh to be "cautious in future".

Hajela had told the media that any valid document would be accepted as proof of citizenship during the hearing on complaints and objections by those left out in the draft NRC.

Taking suo motu cognizance of Hajela's interview to a national daily, Justice Gogoi said: "Where is the necessity, scope and authority in you to make such a statement? Your job is to carry on with the draft and prepare the final NRC."

Displeased over the action of Hajela, Justice Nariman said: "Speaking for myself, I was appalled by your action... And don't forget you are an officer of the court."

Telling Hajela that "whatever you say, reflects on us", the bench asked: "Should we send you both (including RGCC) to jail for contempt?"

The court told Hajela that he was first an officer of the court and should not have spoken to the media about the NRC.

"It is most unfortunate on your part as well as the RGCC. Your job is to prepare the final NRC. Your job is not to go to press holding brief for somebody," the bench said.

The court reminded RGCC Sailesh that on an earlier occasion, too, he was warned by the court on his actions vis-a-vis preparation of the NRC.

"And you, we had warned you before," Justice Gogoi told Sailesh.

At the outset of the hearing, Justice Gogoi, holding the copy of the newspaper in which Hajela had given the interview about ongoing exercise for preparing final NRC for Assam, asked him "what is this?

"Are you in any manner concerned with the claims and objections? What is this question of new documents", Justice Gogoi asked Hajela telling him that his job was only to carry on with the draft NRC and prepare final citizens register.

Justice Gogoi also read out the order passed by the court in its last hearing on July 31.

In its last order, the court had said: "... what has been published is only the Complete Draft NRC which naturally being a draft cannot be the basis of any action by any authority."

The court had also recorded the statement of Attorney General K.K. Venugopal that the Central government was in the process of "preparing modalities in the form of standard operating procedures" to deal with claims and objections through a fair process.

Having hauled up Hajela and RGCC Sailesh for exceeding their brief and speaking to the media, the court said that next hearing on the matter would take place on August 16 when court would consider the standard operating procedures being prepared by the Centre for dealing with claims and objections to the draft NRC.

In pursuance to July 2 top court's direction, the draft NRC was published on July 30.

It will also pass further orders with regard to the time schedule and different steps that would be undertaken for preparig the final NRC.

--IANS

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Expressing concern over the spurt in rape cases, the Supreme Court on Tuesday came down heavily on the Bihar government for misusing taxpayers' money to fund NGOs like the Muzaffarpur shelter home whose head has been arrested on the charge raping the inmates.

The apex court also asked the centre to apprise it of the steps being taken to prevent sexual abuse of minors in shelter homes across the country.

"What's happening in all these institutions funded by the government? People are paying taxes. People's money is going into funding these kinds of activities... it's state-financed activity. Money has been given to these NGOs without looking into their credentials," a bench of Justice Madan B. Lokur, Justice Deepak Gupta and Justice K.M. Joseph remarked.

"What's to be done? Girls getting raped left, right and centre," the Bench noted while citing the 2016 National Crime Research Bureau data available on the Internet. According to the data, 38,947 rapes were reported in 2016.

In Madhya Pradesh, girls are being sold openly for prostitution and the state leads in the number of rapes, followed by Uttar Pradesh, the court added.

Slamming the Bihar government for funding NGOs involved in sexual abuse cases, the top court questioned how the state could do this without knowing their credentials.

As the bench asked the Bihar government since when the state was providing funds to these NGOs, it was told "since 2014."

"For at least 3-4 years, the Bihar government is giving them money without purpose. Doesn't the law require to check?"

The court has taken suo motu cognisance of the Muzaffarpur shelter home rapes after a Patna resident wrote to the court. The CBI is probing the case.

The court also imposed a blanket ban on the publication of images of victims of sexual offences even by putting black bars on part of face/blurred form on the electronic, print and social media.

It said there would not be any interview of minor survivors of sexual abuse, saying it has serious mental impact.

The court said that such survivors can only be interviewed by members of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights in the presence of counsellors.

The apex court also directed that while the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences will look into the mental and physiatrist requirements of these children, the All India Institute of Medical Science in Patna will look into their clinical requirements and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) will take care of their social rehabilitation.

It asked the Bihar government to take action against the wife of one of the accused for disclosing the names of minor rape victims on her Facebook page.

The court suggested that proper monitoring of NGO-run shelter homes must be done on a daily basis and CCTVs be installed to prevent recurrence of incidents like the Muzaffarpur shelter home rapes.

The apex court was told that the Muzaffarpur-based NGO was not the only one facing allegations of rape and that a social audit by TISS had flagged "grave concern" over 15 such state-funded institutions in Bihar out of 110.

Nine of the 15 NGOs have been flagged for sexual abuse, the bench was told.

At this, the bench said: "It's not about this one incident which is horrible. It's happening everyday, you must go down to the grass-roots level."

The Bihar government counsel told the court that of the 15 NGOs, FIRs have been registered against nine, and that all accused have been arrested except one absconding. Some officers were suspended and are facing action, the court was told.

The counsel said the state government will file a detailed affidavit in a week on the compensation, social rehabilitation, and counselling of raped children who have been shifted to government shelter homes.

When the Delhi Commission for Women wanted to file an intervention application, the bench slammed it for interfering and said it doesn't want any politics in the matter.

"The DCW has no concern with this (case) and there is absolutely no politics in it," the Supreme Court said.

The Muzaffarpur rapes came to light when the Bihar Social Welfare Department filed an FIR based on the TISS social audit.

--IANS

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(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An accountability court on Tuesday declared Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif's son-in-law a "proclaimed offender" after he failed to appear before the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in a corruption case.

The court's decision came following a request by Pakistan's anti-corruption body NAB. Imran Ali Yousaf is accused of receiving Rs 12 million graft money from Ikram Naveed, the former CEO of the Punjab Power Development Company (PPDC), and is the subject of a NAB probe, Dawn online reported.

Yousaf appeared before NAB investigators in April but has since missed his scheduled hearings and left the country for London.

The NAB, which in July requested the Interior Ministry to extradite Yousaf via Interpol, on Tuesday told the court that "warrant of arrest against the accused has been issued by NAB chairman".

"As per the investigation officer, the accused has gone underground and is not traceable," the body said. It also summoned Shehbaz Sharif on August 20.

The daily cited a source as saying that Sharif's son-in-law was also accused of "getting Naveed appointed as PPDC CEO who allegedly committed massive corruption".

The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) had already carried out a probe against Naveed and Yousaf in 2016. It declared Naveed guilty of embezzling Rs 450 million.

The ACE in its investigation found that Naveed had purchased 19 properties in his and his family members' names and also unearthed his and his relatives properties worth over Rs 1 billion.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday told the Lok Sabha that rapes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh shelter homes are "sad and shameful" and assured that steps would be taken to prevent recurrence of such acts and that no culprit would escape action.

"I direct the ministry concerned to issue advisories to all states so that no such incident is repeated. Running shelter homes can be investigated," Singh assured the opposition.

"Whatever happened in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh is sad and shameful," he said during the Question Hour.

However, there was again an uproar after the Union Minister praised and congratulated Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's government for taking "concrete steps" after the Deoria shelter home crime surfaced.

"He (Adityanath) called a meeting of all the officers and directed them to take strict action. No culprit will escape action The District Planning Officer was suspended and the managers of the shelter home were arrested," Rajnath Singh said.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said: "The issue is being raised in the House consecutively for three days, let us have a parliamentary panel to inspect and submit a report."

Kharge also asked the Speaker to set up a House Committee to probe the incidents.

Opposition parties, including the Congress, Trinamool Congress and Samajwadi Party staged a walkout after the Home Minister's statement, demanding an impartial probe into both Deoria and Muzaffarpur shelter home rapes.

Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said: "These incidents are very unfortunate. All the concerned members should take appropriate action on such incidents in their constituencies. But, don't do on the matter."

Samajwadi Party member Dharmendra Yadav said "strict action should be taken against the culprits" and a probe should be initiated. He also said that he does not want to play on the issue.

He later said that the Home Minister's act of congratulating Adityanath for his efforts to take action in the Deoria case is "unfortunate and condemnable".

RJD member Jay Prakash Narayan Yadav also spoke on the issue.

Both shelter home horrors sparked a political storm in Parliament after the cases revealed sordid tales of women being abused at these places.

A total of 24 girls were rescued from the shelter home in Deoria late on Sunday after one of them told the police that they were being sexually abused.

Officials told IANS that 18 girls were missing from the privately-run shelter home which earlier got funds from the government. Its affiliation to the Women and Child Welfare Department was cancelled in 2017 after a CBI probe revealed some discrepancies.

At least 34 minor girls were raped at the Muzaffarpur shelter home. The crime came to light in July when the Bihar Social Welfare Department filed an FIR on the basis of a social audit by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Syria on Tuesday accused Israel of assassinating a top Syrian rocket scientist over the weekend, escalating tensions between the two countries.

Aziz Asbar, a research director at Syria's Scientific Studies and Research Centre, was killed on Saturday by an explosive device targeting his car in Masyaf town of Syria's Hama province, according to Syria's official news agency SANA.

Syrian press reports blamed Israel's Mossad intelligence agency for the killing and said Asbar had survived two previous assassination attempts, also by Israeli agents, according to the New York Times.

The Al-Watan daily newspaper said he was killed because of his "important" work on Syrian defence systems.

An Israeli government spokesman declined to comment on the allegations.

The centre has long been linked by intelligence agencies to Syria's chemical weapons programme. Israeli warplanes are suspected to have targeted the centre's facility on at least two occasions over the past year, the Times reported.

Israel had carried out more than 100 airstrikes against targets in Syria since 2012 aimed either at Iranian military facilities or at attempts to transfer sophisticated weapons to the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon, the report said.

A branch of the centre outside Damascus was among the targets of US strikes in April and the US Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on the institution since 2005.

After the Syrian government carried out what independent inspectors said was a sarin gas attack that killed as many as 100 people in the town of Khan Sheikhoun in 2017, Washington also imposed sanctions on 271 individuals associated with the centre.

Asbar was not among them, perhaps because he was associated with Syria's missile programme rather than the development of chemical weapons, according to the New York Times.

Syria's missile development is a top concern of Israel, in part because of its worries over the expanding influence of Iran there.

The attack came as Syrian troops regained territory along the 1974 demarcation line separating the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights from Syria.

The two countries have been in a state of war since 1967, when Israel occupied the Golan Heights. Although no shots have been fired since the 1974 ceasefire, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad continues to press for the return of the territory.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Leaders in Tamil Nadu on Tuesday condoled the death of former Chief Minister and DMK President M. Karunanidhi.

Expressing his grief, Governor Banwarilal Purohit in a statement said: "Dr. M. Karunanidhi who was fondly called Kalaignar was a versatile leader who held the masses mesmerized by his oratory."

"He was the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for more than 18 years, during which period he authored and implemented a number of welfare schemes for the poor and underprivileged," Purohit said listing out several such programmes.

Chief Minister K. Palaniswami he said is anguished to hear about the demise of former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, a very senior politician and leader of DMK for 50 years, Karunanidhi.

PMK founder S. Ramadoss said a university that made several histories has died. He said the news of Karunanidhi's death has shaken him.

Ramadoss said Karunanidhi became the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu at the age of 45 by dint of hard work. He came into without any backing, he added.

Actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth in a tweet said Karunanidhi's day of death is an unforgettable black day in my life.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Karnataka districts bordering Tamil Nadu have been put on high alert following the death of DMK patriarch M. Karunanidhi, police said on Tuesday.

"Orders have been issued to the Superintendents of Police of Bengaluru Rural, Kolar, Chamarajanagar and Mysuru districts bordering Tamil Nadu to be on high alert," said Karnataka Additional Director General of Police Kamal Pant in a statement here.

Additional police personnel were deployed in sensitive areas and localities where Tamils reside in large numbers in Bengaluru and in border districts.

"It's a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incident. Movement of people and vehicles to Chennai from the state across the border is being regulated," a police official told IANS here.

In a related development, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corp (KSRTC) suspended bus services to cities and towns in Tamil Nadu from Tuesday evening.

"Buses that left Karnataka for Tamil Nadu earlier in the day will remain at destinations they reached till Wednesday under police protection," said the state-run bus operator.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami on Tuesday expressed his grief over the death of DMK President M. Karunanidhi.

The AIADMK leader said in a statement that he was anguished on hearing about the demise of the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, a very senior politician and a leader of the DMK for 50 long years.

Karunanidhi fought for social justice, the Chief Minister said. His death is a great loss to the state. He offered his condolences to the late leader's family members.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Tamil Nadu Police chief on Tuesday ordered maximum deployment of the police force across the state as Kauvery Hospital announced that DMK chief M. Karunanidhi's condition had become "extremely critical".

A circular issued by Director General of Police T.K. Rajendran asked all Superintendents of Police, City Police Commissioners and others to direct officials under them to report to them immediately in uniform without delay.

The Zonal Inspector Generals of Police have been asked to utilize manpower within the zone depending upon the requirement.

The direction assumes significance with Karunanidhi's health condition turning "extremely critical". He has been admitted to the Kauvery Hospital here since July 28.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump on Tuesday issued a strong warning to anyone trading with Iran, following his re-imposition of sanctions on the country.

"The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed and in November they ratchet up to yet another level. Anyone doing business with Iran will not be doing business with the US. I am asking for world peace, nothing less," Trump said in a tweet.

Some re-imposed sanctions took effect overnight and tougher ones relating to oil exports will begin in November. The sanctions followed the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, also known as the Iran nuclear deal, earlier this year.

The deal, negotiated during the term of Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, saw Iran limit its controversial nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called the measures "psychological warfare" which aimed to "sow division among Iranians". The sanctions take aim at various sectors, with further punitive action planned against Iran's oil trade.

Rouhani said the US government had "turned their back on diplomacy" with the action. "They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation," he said.

"Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense. We are always in favour of diplomacy and talks... but talks need honesty." The Iranian President also accused the Trump administration of using Tehran as domestic political leverage ahead of November's midterm elections in the US.

"They will exert pressure on us and cause pain, but we will certainly come out of the end of this healthier," he said about the penalties that went back into effect at 12.01 a.m. on Tuesday.

Rouhani said that China and Russia had indicated they will not abide by US sanctions despite Trump's threat of "severe consequences".

Trump has called the deal "one-sided", "disastrous" and the "worst I've ever seen". He believes renewed economic pressure will force Iran to agree to a new deal and end its "malign" activities.

The other signatories to the 2015 nuclear deal, including the EU, Russia and China, were sticking with the accord. In a statement on Monday, the EU, the UK, France and Germany said they "deeply regret" the US action. The EU announced it would take legal steps to protect European companies "doing legitimate business in Iran."

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
: A special court in the city on Tuesday sentenced two persons to death for the abduction, gang-rape and murder of a minor girl in a "dastardly and grisly" manner.

The convicts, Shravan Singh and Ghewar Singh, were charged with abducting a minor girl from her home in village Rinva in Barmer's Chohtan sub-division on March 29-30, 2013, and gang-raping her.

Her body was found dumped in the mounds around the area the next day. Police arrested five persons and booked them under various sections of IPC, SC/ST Act and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Terming the crime the rarest of the rare, special judge Vamita Singh said death sentence was required to ensure justice.

Apart from the two convicts, the court also convicted the co-accused Shankar Singh, Prahlad Singh and Narsing for hiding the crime and pressuring the victim and the family to withdraw the case. They were sentenced to seven-year rigorous imprisonment.

The court turned down the defence counsel plea for a milder sentence. The plea said the accused are fathers of small children and have no criminal antecedents. "A minor girl was abducted and gang-raped without any provocation and brutally murdered and the murder was so gruesome that it stirred the conscience of the society... only the death sentence would do justice," the court said.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed condolence over the devastating loss of life, injuries and damage caused by the earthquake in Indonesia's Lombok island.

In a statement on Monday through UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq, Guterres extended his condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Indonesia, and wished the injured a quick recovery, Xinhua news agency reported.

He also said the UN stands ready to support ongoing rescue and relief efforts if required.

The 7.0-magnitude quake struck on Sunday with the epicentre about 18 km northwest of Lombok Timur district and 15 km under-earth, and has killed almost 100 people and injured over 200 others.

The temblor was also felt strongly in nearby Bali Island, a famous tourism destination, and East Java province, according to the country's meteorology and geophysics agency.

Sunday's quake worsened the downside risks of another strong quake measured at magnitude 6.4, which struck the island on July 29 and left 17 people dead and over 350 others injured.

Indonesia is prone to quakes as it lies in vulnerable quake-affected areas called the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Also on Monday, UN General Assembly President Miroslav Lajcak said on Twitter that he is following the reports coming out of Indonesia with great concern, and that the rising death toll following the earthquake in Lombok, Bali and other islands is heartbreaking.

He said his thoughts are with the Indonesian government as well as the victims and survivors.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The United States on Tuesday condoled the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M. Karunanidhi.

"On behalf of the US Consulate General in Chennai, I offer condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu and Tamils across the world on the passing of former Chief Minister Muthuvel Karunanidhi," Acting US Consul General in Chennai Lauren Lovelace said in a statement.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family," Lovelace said.

A five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi, 94, passed away at a local hospital in Chennai on Tuesday evening.

He was admitted to the hospital on July 28.

--IANS

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(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US Republican Senator Rand Paul has said here the main purpose of his visit to Russia is to establish and develop dialogue between the lawmakers of the two countries.

"We are interested in cooperation with the Russian Federation, especially with the legislative bodies, because we have common problems, common tasks," Paul was quoted as saying on Monday by a press release of the Federation Council, the upper house of the Russian parliament, Xinhua reported.

Paul headed a US delegation, which includes member of the Texas State Senate Don Huffines and representatives of the Cato Institute, a public policy research organisation.

The delegation met the Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs Konstantin Kosachev and Vice Speaker of the Federation Council Vladimir Lukin.

The parties discussed issues of Russian-US relations and prospects of inter-parliamentary relations, according to the press release.

"There are many differences in our approaches. Nevertheless, your position in favor of developing dialogue that equally meets the interests of the US and Russia can not but inspire respect," Kosachev said.

Kosachev said the visit is especially valuable as some US representatives are attempting to treat all contacts with Russian politicians as toxic ones.

The senior Russian lawmaker listed the main issues which should constitute the core of bilateral relations, including maintaining strategic stability, arms control and ensuring a further reduction of military tension.

Paul also met representatives of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, led by the committee's chairman Leonid Slutsky.

"The conversation with US politicians was about resuming close cooperation between the Russian Federal Assembly and the US Congress," Slutsky told reporters after the meeting.

He said the parties agreed to make efforts in the coming weeks and try to relaunch some kind of cooperation format as early as this autumn.

Slutsky added that his committee intends to continue discussion with the US delegation at a luncheon on Tuesday.

He named the situation in Ukraine, Syria and disarmament issues as possible topics for the upcoming conversation.

--IANS

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The YSR Congress party on Tuesday decided to vote against the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate in the upcoming Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman's election.

Party leader and Rajya Sabha member V. Vijaysai Reddy announced that the party will vote against Janta Dal-United (JD-U) MP Harivansh Narayan Singh, who is the Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA's candidate.

The YSR Congress, the main opposition party in Andhra Pradesh, has two members in the upper House of Parliament.

Five Lok Sabha members of the YSR Congress have resigned to protest the Centre's refusal to accord special category status to Andhra Pradesh.

The party had earlier backed NDA candidates in the presidential and vice presidential elections.

--IANS

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The main opposition party of Zimbabwe, the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), has denounced harassment and persecution by the army against party members.

The party on Monday said the security forces' harassment is an attempt to prevent the MDC from challenging the results of the July 30 presidential election, Efe news reported.

The MDC and local human rights groups have reported beatings, intimidation and kidnappings by military personnel in the capital Harare and other parts of the country.

MDC spokesman Nkululeko Sibanda said at a press conference in Harare that the aim of the current repression is to ensure that the presidential election results cannot be challenged.

The presidential candidate for the MDC, Nelson Chamisa, was officially declared to have lost the election to incumbent President Emmerson Mnangagwa of the ruling Zanu-PF party, who garnered more than 2.4 million votes (50.8 per cent), thus avoiding the need to hold run-off election.

Chamisa has stressed that he won the July 30 vote, denouncing the "unverified fake results" reported by election authorities.

MDC spokesman Nkululeko Sibanda pointed out that Chamisa has a large legal team which plans to appeal the election results, although the team has not yet taken any firm steps three days after the announcement of the results by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission.

Criticism of the army intensified after troops on Wednesday used live ammunition, water cannons and tear gas in the streets of Harare, killing six people in an attempt to suppress opposition protests over the delay in reporting the official election results.

A total of 27 MDC members and staff on Monday appeared in court on charges of inciting violence - charges that the accused denied.

The July 30 presidential election was Zimbabwe's first balloting in 37 years that did not feature the former leader, Robert Mugabe, who was ousted from power in November 2017.

--IANS

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leader came under attack from the BJP for his remarks that Prime Minister wore "outlandish" and "hilarious" Naga headgears during his trips but refused to wear a Muslim skull cap.

The (BJP) demanded an apology from the party for insulting the people of Northeast and tribals, apart from seeking an explanation from Tharoor.

" party and ji please explain what's the English meaning of outlandish and hilarious headgear? You can't get away after insulting the tribal and Northeast people," tweeted Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju.

"I demand an apology from the Congress party for insulting the people of India's Northeast and tribals. described Northeast people and Naga tribal headgears as funny looking outlandish and hilarious," he added.

Another Minister and BJP leader said: "Shashi Tharoor insults the proud cultural heritage of the people of Northeast.

"This condescension and arrogance towards the people of have become hallmark of @INCIndia," he added.



Congress Party & Shashi Tharoor ji please explain what's the English meaning of outlandish & hilarious headgear?

You can't get away after insulting the Tribal & North East people. https://t.co/8nQ22AyNHA  Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) August 6, 2018

Addressing a seminar, the Thiruvananthapuram MP said: "Why does our Prime Minister, who wears all sorts of outlandish headgears wherever he goes around the country and around the world, but always refuses to wear a Muslim skull cap?

"You see him in hilarious Naga headgears and feathers. You see him in various kinds of extraordinary outfits, which is a right thing for a Prime Minister to do. has also been photographed wearing various kinds of costumes. But why he still always says no to one?"

"Why does he refuse to wear green, the colour that he says is identified with Muslim appeasement? What kind of talk it is?" Tharoor said.

Tharoor had kicked up a row recently with his "Hindu Pakistan" remarks.
president on Tuesday alleged that "minions" of the "Supreme Leader" were trying to silence those reporting on the Rafale scam and threats, blackouts, sackings and advertising cuts were taking place to prevent the truth from being told.

He also lauded ABP News for exposing the modus operandi of the "minions".

"The Supreme Leader's minions have been trying to silence those reporting on Rafale Scam. Thanks to ABP News, the MODUS OPERANDI of the minions is in the open.

"Threats. Channel Blackouts. Sackings. Advertising cuts. Anything to prevent the truth being told. Satyamev Jayate," he said on Twitter.



Gandhi had raised the issue of the Rafale fighter aircraft deal during his address at the Parliamentary Party meeting in the morning as well.

Dubbing the Rafale deal "corruption of the century", he said Prime Minister Narendra came to power on the claim that he would wipe out corruption in the country and provide a very clean government.

But the Rafale scam, involving over Rs 1.3 lakh crore of public money, "designed to bail out debt-ridden corporate cronies of Modiji is symbolic of the true 'sanskar' of this government 'Raam Naam Japna, Paraya Maal Apna'," he told MPs.

Gandhi had earlier, too, taken a swipe at Modi, saying his "minions" were threatening journalists not to report on the "Rafale Scam".



The Congress chief also lauded media persons who have the guts to defend the truth and stand up to "Mr 56".

"I'm really proud of the few brave press people who still have the guts to defend the truth and stand up to Mr 56," he had said in a tweet.

Gandhi's dig at came over his "56-inch chest" remark made during the last Lok Sabha elections to tackle Pakistan and China.

Gandhi and his Congress party have been attacking the government on the Rafale issue, alleging corruption in the fighter aircraft deal and thus a scam.
Fifteen employees at a Southern California aerospace facility have been hospitalised after they were exposed to an unknown chemical.

Los Angeles County fire fighters were dispatched late yesterday to Esterline TA Aerospace in the Valencia neighbourhood of Santa Clarita, north of Los Angeles.

Crews were unable to determine what the irritant was. City Service says the workers were taken to hospitals in unknown condition.

The company makes clamps, insulation and other materials for the aerospace industry.

A telephone message left with the company today morning seeking comment was not immediately returned.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The police seized 150 kg of poppy shells and 250 gram of opium meant for smuggling to neighbouring West Bengal, a senior official said here today.

Two persons were arrested along with the drugs seized from two vehicles near a petrol pump at Pipla village on NH 33 under MGM police station area, Senior Superintendent of Police Anoop Birtharay said.

Poppy shells were dried pods of poppy plant in which poppy seeds are found and from which opium is made.

Acting on a tip-off, a police team last night intercepted a mini truck and recovered 150 kg of poppy shells stuffed in eight sacks, Birtharay told a press conference.

The 250 gram of opium was seized from a car that was following the mini truck.

The drugs were supposed to be smuggled to Kharagpur in West Bengal, where a kg of the poppy shell would have fetched Rs 4000, the SSP said.

While two persons were arrested, some other people who were in another car managed to flee, he said.

The poppy shell and opium were being transported from Tamar under Ranchi district of Jharkhand to Kharagpur, the arrested persons said during interrogation.

The SSP said teams have been sent to Tamar and Kharagpur for investigation and the police were trying to find out if any inter-state gang was involved in this case.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Around 17 lakh employees of the Maharashtra government began their three-day strike today to press for various demands, including implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission report.

Essential services in various departments, including government hospitals, are likely to be affected as class 3 and 4 government employees have joined the strike, Maharashtra Rajya Sarkari Karmachari Madhyavarti Sanghatna general secretary Avinash Daund claimed.

He accused the state government of paying a mere "lip-service" to their long-pending demands.

"About 17 lakh government employees from various departments, including zilla parishads, teachers and state-run corporations, will take part in the three-day strike," said Milind Sardeshmukh, president of the organisation which has called for the protest.

The government employees are yet to receive arrears accrued to them since the implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission by the state government, he said.

He claimed that 1.85 lakh posts of class 3 and class 4 employees are lying vacant in Maharashtra.

Moreover, the demand for filling up 30,000 posts on compassionate ground is also not accepted by the state government, he said.

Around 30-40 per cent of total posts are lying vacant in hospitals and other essential services departments, he added.

The government-appointed K P Bakshi committee was only holding meetings for the last one-and-a-half years with various departments for the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission's recommendations, Sardeshmukh said.

"The state is dilly-dallying on the issue of granting Dearness Allowance arrears for 14 months despite issuing a Government Resolution to this effect," he said.

The government's reluctance to fill up vacant posts in various departments has increased the workload on employees, he claimed.

The government has not done anything beyond giving assurances for raising the retirement age from 58 years to 60 years, five-day week working system, continuation of the old pension scheme and two-year child care leave to women employees, he said.

Daund said their organisation was against outsourcing of some government jobs to private sector and appointment of contract labourers.

In an order late last night, the government said the employees' decision to go on strike will be construed as "misbehaviour" and disciplinary action will be taken against them.

It said the Centre's policy of 'kaam nahi, vetan nahi' (no work, no salary) will be followed in the state as well.

The order directed employees in essential services departments - such as hospitals, fire brigade and water supply - not to join the strike, or else provisions of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) will be invoked against them.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said last week that recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission will be implemented for state government employees from January 2019.

"The arrears of Seventh Pay Commission will be given with retrospective effect from January 2016, while the Dearness Allowance will be given retrospectively for the last 14 months," he had said after holding a meeting with various employees' unions.

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Two men were arrested for allegedly cheating people on the pretext of providing them jobs in railways, police said today.

The accused - Ajeet Singh (30) and Vimal Kumar (29) - were arrested near Food Corporation of India (FCI) building on Sansad Marg yesterday, they added.

The arrests were made after the police received complaints that Singh lured innocent people with placement in railways under "ministry quota". He gave fake appointment letters in lieu of money, Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime) Ajit Kumar Singla said.

On a tip-off, police arrested both the accused and recovered fake appointment letters of railways and FCI from their possession. A pendrive having formats of appointment letters was also recovered.

During interrogation, they revealed having agents in Kolkata and north India.

The agents used to lure innocent job seekers. Singh would take interviews of the candidates near government offices and then extort money from them, the police said.

Singh, a resident of Gwalior, came to Delhi in search of a government job in 2012, but could not get one, they said.

During this period, he came in contact with some people involved in running a fake government job racket and started working with them.

In 2017, he was arrested in Vivek Vihar area, but later came out on bail in December, they said.

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The Israeli military says it has targeted a Hamas military post in northern Gaza after militants opened fire, and Hamas says two of its fighters were killed.

The clash took place just before midday today amid Egyptian efforts to broker a cease-fire between Israel and the Palestinian militant Hamas group, which controls the coastal strip.

The military said an Israeli tank shelled the Hamas post after troops came under fire.

It released a video appearing to show militants shooting from a watchtower, then a tank shell hitting the position.

Tensions have soared since Hamas launched mass protests along the border in March.

At least 160 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire, including at least 120 in protests near the border fence.

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Two Indians, who were abducted while on a business trip to Malaysia have been rescued, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said tonight.

R P Vaidya and K P Vaidya, who had gone to to Malaysia for business purposes, were abducted on August 3, 2018, Swaraj said.

"I am happy to inform that with the efforts of our High Commissioner Mridul Kumar and his team, Malaysian Police has secured release of both Indian nationals on 6th August 2018," she said on Twitter.

Swaraj also said that -- Rohit Pal and Rishab Gupta -- crew members of MV Maharishi Vamdeva from Fujairah, were being repatriated after they suffered heat stroke because there was no air conditioning and light in the ship.

Consulate General of India, Dubai, provided provisions to crew members and is repatriating other members of the crew, she said.

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Three fishermen were killed and nine went missing off the coast of Munambam, here today, when their boat was hit by a merchant ship, officials said.

The incident occurred at around 3.30 am. The boat, which had 14 fishermen aboard, was 24 nautical miles off the Munambam coast when the merchant vessel hit it. The boat capsized soon after, officials said, adding that the merchant ship fled the scene.

Bodies of two fishermen who died were brought to the coast and two injured fishermen were admitted to a hospital, the police said. A search is on to trace nine people still missing in the mishap.

Reportedly, the boat had 11 fishermen from Tamil Nadu, two from West Bengal and one from Kerala.

Defence sources said the merchant vessel involved in the incident has been identified. However, the matter could be confirmed only after interrogation. The identified merchant vessel is registered in India.

The Navy has diverted a Sea King helicopter which was en route to the area for search and rescue of survivors, the officials said.

While one Dornier aircraft was diverted for search operations, another one was sent to locate the merchant ships which were present in the surrounding areas at the time of the collision, a defence spokesperson said.

INS Jamuna has also proceeded to the area for search and rescue of missing fishermen. An advanced light helicopter has been kept on standby. Indian Coast Guard has despatched an interceptor boat and a ship to the area.

Meanwhile, the directorate general of shipping has been made the nodal agency to take action against the erring merchant vessel.

The Joint Operation Centre in Kochi, under the Southern Naval Command, is monitoring the entire operation.

In a similar incident, two fishermen were injured when a foreign vessel allegedly hit their fishing boat off the coast here on June 7.

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Justices Indira Banerjee, Vineet Saran and K M Joseph were on Tuesday sworn in as judges of the in order of seniority notified by the Centre.

The swearing-in ceremony started at 10.30 AM in the CJI's courtroom and Justice Banerjee was the first to take oath followed by justices Saran and Joseph.

The oath was administered to the three judges by of India Dipak Misra in a packed courtroom in presence of all judges, law officers and advocates.

With the appointment of the three judges, the total strength of the judges in the apex court has gone up to 25 against the sanctioned strength of 31.

While Justice Banerjee, was the of Madras High Court, justices Saran and Joseph were chief justices of Orissa and Uttarakhand high courts respectively.
Three elephants were killed after a speeding train knocked them down in West Bengal's Jhargram district early today, a senior forest official said.

Two adult elephants and a calf were hit by the Gyaneswari Express while crossing the tracks near Gidhni railway station -- around 180 km from Kolkata -- at around 1.30 am, said Samir Kumar Majumdar, assistant divisional forest officer (ADFO), Jhargram division.

"A herd of 11 elephants were seen roaming around the forest areas of Jhargram over the past few days. It is suspected that the three elephants that were mowed down on the tracks were part of the recently-spotted herd," Majumdar said.

A number of railway officials, police personnel, along with Divisional Forest Officer Basab Raj Holaichi, have gathered at the site to monitor the situation, the officer said.

The ADFO said today's incident was not an isolated one. Last, year, too, another elephant had met the same fate around this time of the year. "There has to be a mechanism to avoid elephant fatalities from train collisions," Majumdar said, adding that the carcasses would be cremated at a nearby forest later in the day.

Train services were partially affected for around two hours at the Kharagpur-Tatanagar section of the South Eastern Railway (SER) due to the incident. Three local trains -- Jhargram-Medinipur, Kharagpur-Dhanbad and Kharagpur-Purulia -- were cancelled this morning, an official said.

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Four people were arrested for allegedly attempting to occupy the house of a Kashmiri migrant woman here, police said today.

A gang of five to six people came in a vehicle and forced their entry into the house of Tosha Zutshi in the Durga Nagar area last evening, they said.

They threatened Zutshi and her bed-ridden father-in-Law to move out of the house and staked claim over it, police said.

As the woman cried for help, people of the colony and neighbours gathered and forced the trespassers to move out of the house and called the police.

Four among them were arrested, police said.

Following the incident, over 300 Kashmiri migrants and locals of the area held a protest demonstration at the police station. They alleged that the people were goons and part of a land mafia and demanded protection for the family.

BJP MLC G L Raina and the top leadership of Kashmiri migrants visited the woman and assured her of support and protection from the land mafia.

"We condemn the attack, the forcibly entry and attempt to occupy the



house of an old migrant woman by goons and the land mafia people. This has shaken the faith of migrants in the security apparatus. The woman is under threat and police should give her protection," All State Kashmiri Pandit Conference (ASKPC) president Ravinder Raina told reporters here today after a meeting with police officials.

He urged Governor N N Vohra to intervene into the matter.

All Party Migrant Coordination Committee (APMCC) chairman Vinood Pandit said fear has prevailed among the community members after the incident, as mostly elderly people live in the houses.

The Panun Kashmir, All India Kashmiri Pandit Conference (AIKPC), Kashmiri Pandit Sabha and others also condemned the incident.

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Sixty-nine terrorists have infiltrated into Jammu and Kashmir from across the border till June this year, Lok Sabha was informed today.

There were 133 attempts of infiltration by terrorists from across the border and there were 69 net infiltrations, Union Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir said in written reply to a question.

Ahir said till June this year, 14 terrorists were killed while 50 others were returned from border.

A total of 123 terrorists could enter Jammu and Kashmir following 406 infiltration attempts from across the border in 2017.

"As per reports, some locals have been found supporting terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir. Appropriate action under law is taken against such persons. Security forces have been tackling terrorism successfully and as a result 694 terrorists have been neutralized and 368 terrorists or suspects have also been apprehended since 2014 to July, 2018," he said.

The minister said there were 308 incidents of violence in Jammu and Kashmir till July this year in which 113 terrorists were killed in 90 encounters. Altogether 49 security personnel were also killed this year so far.

In 2017, till July, there were 191 incidents of violence in which 112 terrorists were killed in 69 encounters. As many as 39 security personnel were also killed.

Ahir also said there were 73 incidents of violence during the period of suspension of operation in the month of Ramzan in comparison to 34 such incidents during the previous month.

A total of 23 terrorists, eight security personnel and three civilians were killed during the Ramzan ceasefire, while 14 terrorists, five security personnel and eight civilians were killed in the previous month.

Replying to another question, the minister said the government was aware about the use of social media by the militants in Jammu and Kashmir and the law enforcement agencies monitor the web and social media and take appropriate action as per the law.

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Seven policemen including a deputy superintendent of police (DSP) were injured after some residents of village Akhwana in Punjab's Pathankot district hurled bricks at them during a protest, officials said today.

The incident took place yesterday evening when the villagers were staging a sit-in against the construction of a wall by a beverage company on a road in an industrial area nearby.

The villagers are opposed to the move as the wall will block the road on which a gate has been erected in the memory of martyr Manjit Singh, the police said.

"We initially tried to persuade the villagers to end their sit-in, but then some miscreants in the crowd started throwing bricks and stones at the police," an official said.

The situation got tense when seven cops sustained injuries after being hit by bricks, the police said.

Reinforcements were brought in to bring the situation under control. Police resorted to baton charge to disperse the crowd, they added.

Heavy police deployment has been made in the village, though the situation is under control, they said.

A case has been registered against unidentified persons under relevant sections including 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty) and 186 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions) of the IPC.

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Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) today accused the Centre of "misleading" Parliament on its demand for full statehood and said its MP will move a privilege motion against it.

AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bhardwaj cited a written reply by Minister of State for Home Affairs Hansraj Gangaram Ahir in the Lok Sabha today, wherein the Union minister stated that there was no demand of full statehood for Delhi.

"The Central Minister misled the Lok Sabha because they (Centre) did not want to tell the stand of Central Govt on Statehood of Delhi," Bhardwaj tweeted along with a copy of Ahir's reply.

Bhardwaj also shared a copy of a resolution on full statehood passed by the Delhi Assembly in June this year.

The resolution, moved by Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, asked the Union Home Ministry to take all necessary legal and legislative steps to declare National Capital Territory of Delhi a "full fledged state" without "any further delay".

The resolution was passed on June 11 and sent to the Home Ministry the same day, Bhardwaj said.

The AAP dispensation including Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other party leaders have repeatedly raised the demand for full statehood amid a bitter power tussle with the Centre.

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AAP dissidents in Punjab today announced their own ad hoc political affairs committee (PAC), saying the panel will restructure the party's organisation and choose a new president for the state.

The move follows the volunteers' convention held by the rebels in Bathinda on August 2, when they dissolved the current organisation in the state and declared autonomy for the Aam Aadmi Party's Punjab unit.

The dissident group which claims to be made up of eight of the 20 MLAs in the state is upset over the national AAP leadership's decision to replace Sukhpal Singh Khaira as Leader of Opposition in the Punjab Assembly.

The dissidents also traded barbs today with prominent AAP MP Bhagwant Singh Mann who broke his silence over the rebellion in the state unit.

The Sangrur MP, who is also a well-known comedian, accused dissidents Sukhpal Khaira and Kanwar Sandhu of "emotionally blackmailing" party volunteers to "weaken" the AAP.

The dissidents' political affairs committee includes all the eight rebel MLAs and eight special invitees. They will also be part of an ad hoc state executive, Sandhu said.

The panel will supervise the reconstitution of the entire political structure of the state unit, including the appointment of the state president or convenor, he said.

It will also set up the party's structure at the district, assembly constituency and the block levels.

Once this is done, the ad hoc PAC panel will stand dissolved, he said.

This is the first step towards the reconstitution of the AAP in Punjab after the party volunteers convention at Bathinda," the rebel MLA said.

The whole process will be in line with the concept of Swaraj as envisaged by the AAP's national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, he added.

Meanwhile, Bhagwant Mann, the AAP MP from Sangrur, dared the dissidents to resign as MLAs and form a new outfit.

Reacting to his remarks, Khaira called the parliamentarian a "frustrated, dejected and depressed" leader.

Mann described Khaira and Sandhu as "shrewd manipulators", and said their "nefarious designs" to "weaken" the party would not succeed.

"When Khaira was made Leader of Opposition, he gave a bouquet of flowers to Arvind Kejriwal, Mann said in his first appearance before the media after Khaira's rebellion.

When he gets a position in the party it's democratic, when he loses his post then it is called an act of dictatorship," he said.

"Khaira had joined the party when it was already established. I had gone to streets and villages of Punjab for building the party. Khaira just lives on his Facebook post. He is an 'e-neta'," Mann said.

Khaira descrbed Mann's allegations as "maliciously and utterly false, frivolous and concocted."



Khaira said Mann should have the courage to publicly admit the "secret deal" between AAP and the Congress at the cost of Punjabis, who had supported the MP and the party whole heartedly.

The dissident's panel includes Sukhpal Khaira (Bholath MLA) Kanwar Sandhu (Kharar), Nazar Singh Mansahia (Mansa), Jagdev Singh Kamalu ( Maur), Baldev Singh (Jaiton), Pirmal Singh Khalsa (Bhadaur), Jagtar Singh Jagga Hissowal (Raikot) and Jai Krishan Rodi ( Garhshankar).

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A petition by 46-year-old gangster and terror convict Abu Salem for parole to get married was rejected by the Bombay High Court today.

Salem, who is serving life imprisonment in the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case, had petitioned the high court that he should be allowed to maintain family and social ties.

He wanted a month-long parole to marry Kausar Bahar, a resident of Mumbra area of Thane district, adjoining Mumbai.

The gangster, who is lodged at the Taloja jail in Navi Mumbai, approached the high court after the prison authorities rejected his plea for parole.

In his application moved before the court, Salem said the parole request may be considered on "humanitarian grounds" as he "cannot shun his duty" towards the woman since he has promised to marry her.

He said Kausar also does not intend to marry anyone else.

However, he did not mention the date when he intends to get married.

Salem is already married once.

A division bench, comprising Acting Chief Justice V K Tahilramani and Justice M S Sonak, rejected the petition, observing that Salem has been convicted on serious charges of terrorism and hence, cannot be released on parole.

"We cannot ignore the fact that he has been convicted in a Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) case on terrorism charges. Hence, the petition is dismissed," the court ruled.

Salem, who had been absconding after the 1993 serial blasts in which nearly 300 people were killed, was arrested in Portugal in 2002 in a fake passport case.

He was extradited to India in November 2005 and since then he is lodged in the jail.

Last year, a special court convicted Salem in the case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, TADA and the Arms Act.

The court had sentenced him to life imprisonment in the case.

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Transport activists today joined hands to "save" the Brihanmumbai Electrical Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking which is in red due to heavy losses.

Saeed Mirza, national award winning film director, has released a "People's Plan" to save the BEST undertaking.

The activists, including Mirza, Vidyadhar Date, Ashok Datar, Sudhir Badama, A V Shenoy, Hussain Indoriwala and S Balakrishnan, said the government and politicians have failed to save the BEST undertaking.

Balakrishnan demanded that such undertakings be given subsidies.

The 112-year-old BEST administration is now looking at the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) to bail them out financially.

The BEST is struggling to pay salaries to its over 40,500 staffers and had borrowed from banks to make the payments.

The transport undertaking operates on 483 routes in the metropolis and adjoining Thane and Navi Mumbai.

It is incurring an estimated Rs 2 crore loss per day.

Its fleet of 3,337 buses, including 120 double-deckers, has failed to recover even the cost of operation.

BEST buses once used to ferry around 45 lakh passengers daily, but they now cater to only 29 lakh passengers.

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Twenty Afghan amputees, some in wheelchairs and others on crutches, began a gruelling trek of hundreds of kilometres across Afghanistan today, demanding an end to the war that cost them their limbs.

The "peace convoy" began its journey in the western city of Herat and will finish on the other side of the country in the capital Kabul, running the gauntlet of militants, roadside bombs and blistering temperatures.

"We are taking this journey of more than 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) to Kabul to tell the world to stop the war," Mohammad Musa, 40, who lost both legs in a landmine explosion, told AFP.

"The war has brought nothing except destruction."



Abubaker Qaderi, whose right leg was blown off by a roadside bomb 15 years ago, called for a "permanent ceasefire" in the latest conflict, which began with the 2001 US-led invasion.

"War must stop, we want peace," the 50-year-old told AFP before setting off towards Kabul.

"For the sake of the next generation, they should stop fighting," another protester called Khan Zai told AFP.

The march comes weeks after another group demanding peace walked 700 kilometres from the southern city of Lashkar Gah to Kabul, much of it during the fasting month of Ramadan.

That march, believed to be the first of its kind in Afghanistan, arrived in the city on June 18 as the Taliban ended an unprecedented three-day ceasefire and resumed fighting.

The Afghan government is expected to announce a second truce for the next Eid holiday this month.

Afghanistan's largest militant group has not agreed to the protesters' demands and has ignored President Ashraf Ghani's offer of unconditional peace talks.

The Taliban has long insisted on direct talks with the United States.

Washington has repeatedly refused, saying negotiations must be Afghan-led. But there are tentative signs that diplomatic efforts to kick-start negotiations are starting to bear fruit.

Washington indicated a change in its longstanding policy in June when US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the United States was prepared to "support, facilitate and participate" in talks.

Pompeo also said the role of foreign forces in Afghanistan would be on the table.

Last month Taliban representatives met US officials for talks in Qatar.

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An Afghan official says the Taliban attacked a military checkpoint in western Farah province, killing four troops and wounding six.

Mohammad Naser Mehri, the provincial governor's spokesman, says the attack started late on Monday night and lasted into Tuesday morning in Bala Buluk district.

Mehri says the Afghan air force was called in and airstrikes later killed 19 Taliban fighters and wounded 30.

Separately, four women were killed and four children were wounded in the crossfire during a shootout between insurgents and the army in eastern Logar province.

Hasibullah Stanikzai, a provincial council member, says the shootout took place on Monday afternoon near Puli Alim, the provincial capital.

There was no immediate comment on either attack from the Taliban, who have stepped up their assaults across Afghanistan in recent months.

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The unprecedented protests by the students demanding better road safety laws in Bangladesh today fizzled out, with thousands of agitators returning to their classes after a nine-day-long stir that paralysed the country and left over 150 people injured in clashes with riot police.

The agitation prompted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Cabinet to approve a tougher transport law and launch a crackdown on reckless driving.

At the height of the protest, students were seen managing Dhaka's notorious traffic and checking whether drivers of the cars and buses have valid licences and proof of roadworthiness of their vehicles.

Thousands of students of schools, colleges and universities took to the street on July 29, demanding strict implementation of road safety rules, following the death of two teenage students - a boy and a girl - by a speeding bus.

The accident took place when two buses were racing to pick up passengers on Dhaka's main Airport Road and triggered widespread anger initially on social media and then led to a wave protests.

Witnesses said Dhaka, the city of 18 million people, witnessed usual traffic movements with public transport operators resuming their services.

"The number of buses is less than usual but they have returned to the street... I came to work on a bus after eight days," a private firm employee in Dhaka's Motijheel commercial district said.

Most of the schools in the Bangladesh capital reopened today after protesting students withdrew from the street.

A teacher of the Dhaka's Milestone School said: "We have resumed our classes today with normal student attendance."



Authorities also claimed that students have returned to their classes and every thing was normal.

"Today everything is normal. Students have returned to their classes," head of Bangladesh's secondary and higher authority Mahbubur Rahman said.

"So far, there is no of protests from any university," he said, adding that the authorities have shut down two universities in an effort to quell the protests.

Meanwhile, the Ministry has called a meeting of vice-chancellors of all private universities tomorrow to discuss clashes between police and students during the campaign.

"The meeting will take place at the Dhaka International Mother Language Institute auditorium tomorrow," bdnews24.com said, quoting the Ministry.

Bangladesh Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid will chair the meeting, it said.

Despite being peaceful initially, the protests turned violent in the last three days. Buses were torched, hundreds of vehicles vandalised as activists from the ruling Awami League's student front and transport workers allegedly attacked demonstrators, journalists, photographers and even the US ambassador's car during the protests, leaving several injured.

On Sunday, some people, wearing helmets, attacked agitators and journalists covering the stir in Dhaka.

Police lobbed tear gas shells and rubber bullets, used water cannons and resorted to baton charge to disperse a procession brought out by the Dhaka University students.

The police action on the protesters invited criticism of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government from the United Nations, Washington and rights groups.

The government claimed that "third party infiltrators" intruded the protesters to fish in troubled waters spreading rumours to create instability.

"We are now worried about your security as the perpetrators of arson attacks (in 2014-15) may stage sabotages... a quarter is out to catch fish in troubled water (and) the minor students, therefore, are under great threat," Hasina had said in a statement two days ago.

She said non-student "saboteurs" were using school uniforms and ID cards as "the third force has appeared at the scene".

The police had arrested an actress, Nawshaba Ahmed, on Friday for allegedly spreading rumours to agitate the school students after she uploaded a post on the Facebook, claiming that four female students were taken hostage at the ruling Awami League's Dhanmandi office, which the protestors later called "unfounded".

The police had also arrested well-known photographer and activist Shahidul Alam on charges of spreading false information about the protests and propaganda against the government. The High Court today scrapped a lower court order allowing police to interrogate him for seven days keeping him in their custody.

In a bid to calm down the protesting students, the Hasina government also promised to consider death penalty for deliberately causing road deaths and approved a new road safety law.

According to the Bangladesh Passengers Welfare Association, a private research group, at least 7,397 people--around 20 a day--died in road accidents in 2017, a 25 per cent increase from 2016. The World bank said more than 4,000 people die in accidents each year, giving Bangladesh a tag of being one of world's worst accident prone nations.

Journalists today gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest those involved in attacks on some of their colleagues covering the protests. At least, seven photojournalists, including an Associated Press (AP) photographer, were injured in attacks with sharp weapons, sticks and iron rods by helmets wearing youths at Dhanmandi, Jigatala and Science Laboratory areas.

Meanwhile, an alliance of left-leaning student organisations today announced demonstrations in all educational institutions across the country tomorrow in protest against attacks on students.

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The unprecedented protests by the students in Bangladesh demanding better road safety laws today virtually came to an end, with agitators returning to their classes after a nine-day-long stir that left over 150 people injured in clashed with riots police.

The death of two teenage students - a boy and a girl - by a speeding bus on July 29 brought thousands of schools, colleges and universities students on the streets of the Bangladesh capital, demanding strick implementation of road safety rules.

The two students were killed when two buses racing to pick passengers, a common occurrence in the city, hit them and wounded several others. One of the bus drivers fled the scene, although both were later arrested.

Authorities claimed that students have returned to their classes and every thing was normal.

"Today everything is normal. Students have returned to their classes," Mahbubur Rahman, head of Bangladesh's secondary and higher education authority said.

"So far no of protests from any university," he said, adding that the authorities have shut down two universities in an effort to quell the protests.

Meanwhile, the Education Ministry has called a meeting of vice-chancellors of all private universities tomorrow to discuss clashes between police and students during the campaign.

"The meeting will take place at the Dhaka International Mother Language Institute auditorium tomorrow," bdnews24.com said, quoting the Education Ministry.

Bangladesh Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid will chair the meeting, it said.

The protests saw teenagers and high-school students paralyse traffic in the Bangladesh capital and beyond. Buses were torched, hundreds of vehicles vandalised as alleged pro-government mobs attacked demonstrators, journalists, photographers and even the US ambassador's car during the protests.

On Sunday, some people, wearing helmets, attacked agitators and journalists covering the stir in Dhaka.

Transport workers yesterday, who went on a virtual shutdown citing security reasons for the past eight days took to the street and clashed with protestors, prompting police to use batons and tear gas canisters.

Police lobbed tear gas shells and rubber bullets, used water cannons and resorted to baton charge to disperse a procession brought out by the Dhaka University students.

The police action on the protesters invited criticism of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government from the United Nations, Washington and rights groups.

At the height of the protests, students were seen managing Dhaka's notorious traffic and checking whether drivers of the cars and buses had valid licences and proof of roadworthiness of their vehicles.

In a bid to calm down the protesting students, the Bangladesh government also promised to consider death penalty for deliberately causing road deaths and approved a new road safety law.

Bangladesh appeared to be one of the world's worst accident prone countries with the World Bank saying more than 4,000 people die in road accidents each year.

More than 4,200 pedestrians were killed in Bangladesh in 2017, a 25 per cent increase from 2016, according to a private research group the National Committee to Protest Shipping, Roads and Railways.

Journalists today gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest those involved in attacks on some of their colleagues while covering the protests. At least, seven photojournalists, including an Associated Press (AP) photographer were injured in attacks with sharp weapons, sticks and iron rods by youths wearing helmets at Dhanmondi, Jigatala and Science Laboratory areas.

Meanwhile, an alliance of left-leaning student organisations, Progressive Students Alliance today announced demonstrations in all the educational institutions across the country tomorrow in protest against attacks on students.

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An AIIMS would be set up at Kalyani in West Bengal before September 2020, Health Minister JP Nadda said today, asserting that there would be no compromise on quality of such institutions.

"All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), set up under an Act of Parliament, is an autonomous institute. All AIIMS (at regional level) will have the same standards. We are not diluting standards. These will be of high quality," Nadda said in Rajya Sabha during Question Hour.

He said currently there were 21 AIIMS in various parts of the country.

About AIIMS at Kalyani in West Bengal, he said the government will complete it before the targeted period of completion - September 2020.

He said the Cabinet had approved the project at a cost of Rs 1,754 crore on October 2015 and it had to be completed in five years.

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A Delhi court today extended till October 8 the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti in Aircel-Maxis cases filed by the CBI and the ED for the alleged offences of corruption and money laundering respectively.

Special CBI Judge O P Saini allowed the applications moved by both the agencies seeking time to file a detailed reply to the anticipatory bail applications moved by senior advocate Kapil Sibal on behalf of father-son duo in both the cases.

Both ED and the CBI, represented by advocates Nitesh Rana and K K Goel respectively, told the court that the leading counsel was not available for the detailed argument and sought an adjournment, which was allowed by the court.

At this, Sibal requested the court to extend the interim protection granted to Chidambarams from arrest till the next date, which was allowed by the court.

Meanwhile, Karti informed the court through advocate Arshdeep Singh that he was desirous to travel abroad between August 15-31.

Karti has already been granted permission to go abroad from the Supreme Court, which, however, had put a condition that he inform the court about his travel details.

Chidambaram and his son were named in the charge sheet filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation in the case on July 19.

The ED is also probing a separate money-laundering case in the Aircel-Maxis matter and a charge sheet was filed against Karti Chidambaram by the agency on July 13 through advocate A R Aditya.

The CBI is probing how Chidambaram, who was the Union finance minister in 2006, granted a Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval to a foreign firm, when only the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) was empowered to do it.

The senior Congress leader's role has come under the scanner of investigating agencies in the Rs 3,500-crore Aircel-Maxis deal and the INX Media case involving Rs 305 crore.

In its charge sheet filed earlier in the case against former telecom minister Dayanidhi Maran, his brother Kalanithi Maran and others, the agency had alleged that Chidambaram had granted an FIPB approval in March, 2006 to Mauritius-based Global Communication Services Holdings Ltd, a subsidiary of Maxis.

The Maran brothers and the other accused named in the CBI charge sheet were discharged by the special court, which had said the agency had failed to produce any material against them to proceed with the trial.

Taking a cue from the CBI FIR, the ED is probing the money laundering in the matter.

P Chidambaram and Karti Chidambaram have been questioned by the ED on various occasions, even though the politician has not been arrayed as an accused.

Both Chidambaram and Karti have denied the allegations levelled against them by the CBI and the ED.

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Alaska was possibly the 'superhighway' for dinosaurs between Asia and western North America 65-70 million years ago, according to a study.

Researchers from the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in the US discovered the first North American co-occurrence of hadrosaur and therizinosaur tracks in the Denali National Park in Alaska, US.

Hadrosaur was an unusual predatory dinosaur thought to have become a herbivore, while as therizinosaurs are best known from Asia.

The study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, suggests that an aspect of the continental ecosystem of central Asia was also present in this part of Alaska during the Late Cretaceous.

"This discovery provides more evidence that Alaska was possibly the superhighway for dinosaurs between Asia and western North America 65-70 million years ago," said Anthony R Fiorillo from the Perot Museum of Nature and Science.

Fiorillo and a colleague published on a distinct single footprint in Denali National Park in 2012 that they determined to be made by a therizinosaur.

In 2013 and 2014, they conducted a more detailed analysis of the area, and unearthed dozens more tracks of therizinosaurs.

What surprised Fiorillo and his team most was the co-occurrence of dozens of hadrosaurs, also known as duck-bill dinosaurs.

"Hadrosaurs are very common and found all over Denali National Park. Previously, they had not been found alongside therizinosaurs in Denali," said Fiorillo.

"From our research, we have determined that this track association of therizinosaurs and hadrosaurs is currently the only one of its kind in North America," he said.

The plant-eating therizinosaurs are rare and unusual creatures in the fossil record.

The strange-looking dinosaurs had long skinny necks, little teeth, a small beak for cropping plants, and big torsos accompanied by large hind feet and long arms.

Though therizinosaurs are known from Asia and North America, the best and most diverse fossil record is from Asia - even up to the time of extinction - and therein is the connection.

Fiorillo has long postulated that Cretaceous Alaska could have been the thoroughfare for fauna between Western North America and Asia -two continents that shared each other's fauna and flora in the latest stages of the Cretaceous.

"This study helps support the idea that Alaska was the gateway for dinosaurs as they migrated between Asia and North America," said Yoshitsugu Kobayashi from Hokkaido University Museum in Japan.

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The Amarnath yatra resumed today from Jammu after two days with a fresh batch of 454 pilgrims, including 63 women, leaving the Bhagwati Nagar base camp for the cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas.

The yatra was suspended from Jammu on Sunday, coinciding with the separatist-sponsored two-day strike in protest against the legal challenge to the validity of Article 35A, which provides special rights and privileges to the natives of Jammu and Kashmir.

A police official said the 36th batch of 454 pilgrims, comprising 391 men and 63 women, left the base camp in a convoy of 11 vehicles under tight security.

While 230 pilgrims, including 30 women, have opted to undertake the yatra from the shortest 12-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district, 194 others, including 33 women, are performing the yatra from the traditional 36-km Pahalgam track, the official said, adding the pilgrims heading for Pahalgam also included 33 Sadhus.

The 60-day annual yatra commenced from the twin tracks on June 28. It is scheduled to conclude on August 26, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.

Till last evening, 2,74,118 pilgrims had paid their obeisance at the 3,880-metre-high holy cave, where the natural ice-shivalingam is formed.

The early melting of the shivalingam this year has led to a considerable drop in the number of pilgrims.

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India may impose an anti-dumping duty of up to USD 719 per tonne for five years on imports of nylon filament yarn from the European Union and Vietnam following recommendations by the commerce ministry's investigation arm DGAD.

Imposition of duty aims at guarding domestic manufacturers of this yarn from cheap imports coming from European Union and Vietnam.

Following complaints by five domestic players, the Directorate General of Antidumping and Allied Duties (DGAD) initiated a probe against alleged dumping of nylon filament yarn from the two regions.

In its final findings of the probe, the directorate has concluded that the product has been exported to India from these countries below normal values and that the domestic industry has suffered material injury on account of such dumped imports.

"The Authority recommends imposition of definitive anti-dumping duty...so as to remove the injury to the domestic industry," the DGAD has said in a notification.

The final view to impose the duty would be taken by the Finance Ministry soon.

The suggested duty ranges between USD 128.06 per tonne to USD 719.44 per tonne.

Import of this yarn from EU and Vietnam has increased to 13,799 tonnes during October 2015 March 2017 (which was the period of investigation) from 7,201 tonnes in 2013-14.

Five domestic firms including JCT Ltd, Gujarat Polyfilms Pvt Ltd and AYM Syntex had filed an application for initiation of the investigations.

The major uses of this yarn are in home furnishing and industrial application such as curtains, sewing and embroidery thread and fishnets.

To recommend duties, the DGAD in its probe would have to establish that dumping has caused material injury to domestic players.

Anti-dumping duties are levied to provide a level playing field to the local industry by guarding against below-cost import.

Imposition of anti-dumping duty is permissible under the World Trade Organization (WTO) regime. Both India and China are members of the Geneva-based body.

The duty is aimed at ensuring fair trading practices and creating a level-playing field for domestic producers vis-a- vis foreign producers and exporters. They are not a measure to restrict import or cause an unjustified increase in cost of products.

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Argentina's former vice president, Amado Boudou, was sentenced to nearly six years in prison today after being found guilty of corruption while serving under former president Cristina Kirchner.

The charges related to Boudou's attempt to buy a company that printed currency through a front while serving as Kirchner's economy minister.

A court found this attempt corrupt and incompatible with his responsibilities as a public servant, and sentenced him to five years and ten months in prison.

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An Army jawan's wife was found hanging from the ceiling of their home under mysterious circumstances in Shamli district of Uttar Pradesh, a police official said today.

According to SHO Krishan Kumar, Shivani's family has accused her husband and her in-laws of killing her yesterday and then hanging her body to show it as a case of suicide. The incident happened in Manat village under Thana Bhawan police station area.

The woman's father has alleged in his complaint that his daughter was being harassed by her in-laws for dowry, Kumar said.

He has alleged that her daughter was living with them for six months following disputes with her in-laws and had returned to her husband's house a few days ago.

The SHO said the Army jawan is posted in Ladakh.

The body has been sent for post-mortem. No arrest has been made so far.

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Asia's biggest would be set up in Sindhudurg district of with an investment of Rs 50 billion, the state government said.

State Tourism Minister Jaykumar Rawal and Minister of State for Tourism Deepak Kesarkar made the announcement here following their meeting with Malta's Tourism and Cultural Minister Konrad Mizzi.

A private firm would make the investment, linking the proposed in Sindhudurg to another located in Malta, they said.

"Asia's biggest would be set up in Sindhudurg with an investment of Rs 50 billion. The data centre will be connected to another in Malta, laying underground cable in sea," Rawal told reporters.

The ministers also said that trials of flight operations at the Parule Chipi airport in Sindhudurg would be held in October this year, while an international flight would arrive there from Malta in December.

The European country is also set to host a festival of Indian films in December.

Rawal said the state government also signed an MoU with the Malta government for offering some courses to students at the Solapur hotel management institute.

On his part, Mizzi said that the government of his country was happy with the collaboration.

"We believe that in these areas we can work together to create a win-win (situation). Malta and India share a common heritage," he said.

The Maltese minister added that the government there collaborated with the Devendra Fadnavis-led dispensation to attract more Indian tourists to the European nation.

"We will be exploring more details of the flights. We will also see if Malta could offer the Indian diaspora cheaper route as well to come back to India without going to other hubs in other regions which should reduce the flight time as well," he said.

Meanwhile, Rawal said the government was in talks with two-three companies to launch battery-operated glass submarines in sea at Sindhudurg as announced in the budget for the current fiscal.
Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale today appealed to the public to not participate in the August 9 'Bharat Bandh' called by Dalit organisations against the Supreme Court ruling on the SC/ST Act.

In a statement issued today, Athawale appealed to the people to maintain peace, harmony and brotherhood in the country.

His appeal comes a day after the Lok Sabha passed The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill 2018 to overturn a Supreme Court order concerning certain safeguards against arrest under the law.

Yesterday, The Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill 2017, which grants constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes(NCBC), was also passed by the Parliament.

Athawale said the passage of the two bills was a revolutionary step and alleged that the opposition is defaming the government wrongly over this.

He said the government is protecting the rights of the Dalit community and is continuously working towards their welfare under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Dalit groups under the banner of the All India Ambedkar Mahasabha (AIAM) have given a call for 'Bharat Bandh' on Thursday to demand restoration of the provisions of the SC/ST Act which, the Dalit groups allege, were diluted by a Supreme Court ruling of March 20.

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Australia has pressed North Korea over the remains of 43 soldiers still missing after the Korean war in a rare encounter between the two nations, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said today.

Some 17,000 Australians fought as part of the United Nations multinational force defending South Korea from Communist North Korea during the 1950-1953 conflict.

Of these, 340 were killed and over 1,216 wounded. Forty-three were listed as missing in action and presumed dead.

Bishop raised the issue in a meeting with counterpart Ri Yong-ho at a security forum in Singapore at the weekend, after 55 sets of remains thought to be of American soldiers killed during the conflict finally returned home this month.

"I noted the Americans had received the remains of some of their soldiers after the meeting between President Trump and Kim Jong-un and I asked the Australians also be able to access the sites," she told Sky

"We offered forensic and expert assistance so that we can recover those Australian remains of soldiers after the Korean War, and he took that on board." Bishop also discussed North Korea's progress on denuclearisation with Ri.

"I took the opportunity to talk to him about the leaders' meeting (between Trump and Kim) and North Korea's commitment to denuclearisation... he was noncommittal," she said.

Caskets carrying 55 sets of presumed American remains arrived on US soil this month after a June meeting in Singapore between Trump and Kim. Experts have said it could take scientists and historians years to make final identifications.

More than 35,000 Americans were killed on the Korean peninsula during the war, with 7,700 of these US troops still listed as missing in action -- most of them in North Korea.

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The West Bengal government should make concerted efforts to attract more tourists at different locations within the state, a senior tourism official said today.

"While Bengali tourists are among the top travellers in the country, apparently they don't give topmost priority to the tourist spots located in their own state," Regional Director (East), Tourism, J P Shaw told reporters here on the sidelines of a seminar on 'Heritage and Weekend Tourism in Bengal'.

He said according to latest figures, West Bengal figured in the fifth spot in terms of foreign tourist inflow and stood eighth with regard to domestic tourist visits.

"You have everything in Bengal, it is time you showcase the places and further improve facilities," he said, seeking cooperation from the state government and other stakeholders for improving tourist amenities.

Shaw referred to the improving road condition in places like Hazarduari, Bishnupur, and 'classified hotels' (hotels with star facilities) in locations like Santiniketan.

"Nowadays, we have formed new guidelines for hotels. A hotel must also have rooms for differently-abled persons," he said, adding, the state government must draft guidelines for homestay tourism as well.

Homestays should have basic amenities like hygiene, attached bathrooms and one extra room in a house, Shaw said.

The tourism official said the Centre was ready to give funds under the 'Swadesh Darshan' project to the state for improving tourist facilities in the coastal circuits - Mandarmani, Bakkhali and Frazergunj - and religious places like Belur Math.

"While we have already alloted funds for beautification of Belur Math and its surrounding river bank areas, we are ready to allot funds for beautification of religious places like Tarapith and Tarakeswar, if given concrete proposals by the state government," he said.

The official, however, did not give specific figures of the funds alloted so far.

Shaw also talked about the 'Adopt a Heritage' project by the Centre, under which a corporate group takes the onus of improving the amenities of a heritage spot and "turn it into a tourist destination".

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The Bihar cabinet today approved a proposal to increase Legislators developmental fund to Rs 3 crore annually from existing Rs 2 crore.

The approval was given at a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar here.

On the last day of monsoon session of the state legislature on July 26, the CM had announced the hike in the quantum of funds from existing Rs 2 crore to Rs 3 crore per annum for legislators who can recommend for development work in his/her area.

Giving its nod to a proposal of the Planning and Development department, the cabinet sanctioned Rs 318 crore for the purpose to be spent in the current financial year of 2018-19, Cabinet Secretariat Principal Secretary Arun Kumar Singh told reporters here during a post cabinet briefing.

The decision was taken in view of the increase in the cost of construction material and other items, he said.

The cabinet also gave its nod to the amendments in various sections and sub-sections of Bihar Motor Vehicles Taxation Act, 1994 read with Bihar Finance Act 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2015, Singh said.

He said with this, the tax in the form of registration fee would be imposed on "ex-showroom price" of the vehicles- two-wheeler and four-wheeler.

Now the department will charge 8 per cent of the ex-showroom price of vehicles worth upto Rs 1 lakh while vehicles in the range of Rs 1 to 8 lakh will be charged at 9 per cent, Singh said.

Similarly, 10 per cent will be levied on vehicles in the range of Rs 8 to Rs 15 lakh while vehicles above Rs 15 lakh will attract 12 per cent of registration fee.

It also hiked the uniform allowance of chowkidars from Rs 3000 to Rs 5,000 per annum, the principal secretary said.

The cabinet also approved Rs 94.05 crore for the implementation of "Kisan Salahkar Yojana" for current fiscal of 2018-19, he said.

It also gave its nod to Law department's proposal to nominate Justice Dr Ravi Ranjan, the Judge of Patna High Court, as the executive president of Bihar State Legal Service Authority, Patna. The post had fallen vacant after Justice Ajay Kumar Tripathi, the executive president, was appointed as the Chief Justice of Chhattisgarh high court.

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The Supreme Court today expressed concern over incidents of rape in the country and said that women are being raped "left, right and centre".

A bench comprising Justices M B Lokur, Deepak Gupta and K M Joseph pulled up the Bihar government for funding an NGO which ran the shelter home in Muzaffarpur where girls were allegedly raped and sexually abused.

The bench referred to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data and said that every six hours, a woman is raped in India.

The court referred the NCRB data and said 38,947 women were raped in India in 2016.

"What is to be done? Girls and women are getting raped left, right and centre," the bench said.

Advocate Aparna Bhat, who was appointed as an amicus curiae in the matter, told the court that no compensation has been paid to the alleged victims of sexual assault at the Muzaffarpur shelter home.

The lawyer also said that one of the girls, who was allegedly raped at the shelter home in Muzaffarpur, was still "missing".

Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), which conducted an audit of shelter homes, told the court that out of 110 such institutions in Bihar, "grave concerns" have been raised about 15.

To this, the Bihar government told the apex court that nine cases of sexual abuse have been lodged involving these 15 institutions run by various NGOs.

The hearing in the matter will resume at 2 PM.

The apex court had earlier restrained the electronic media from showing, even in morphed form, images of the alleged victims of rape and sexual assault at the shelter home, observing they cannot be compelled to "relive the trauma" again and again.

The bench had said that it had not restrained the police authority from conducting probe and if they want to question the alleged victims, they would have to take assistance of professional counsellors and qualified child psychiatrist in consultation with National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences in Bengaluru and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai.

Over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the shelter home run by Brajesh Thakur, the chief of the state-funded NGO.

The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls was first highlighted in an audit report submitted by TISS to the state's social welfare department in April.

An FIR was lodged against 11 people, including Thakur, on May 31. The probe has now been taken over by the CBI.

In all, sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in their medical examination, while two others who were unwell were yet to undergo medical tests.

The TISS audit report stated that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse. A special investigation team was formed to probe the complaints.

The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani.

Women staff members of the shelter home and Thakur were among those who were arrested by the police in connection with the case.

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The Uttar Pradesh government will table a bill in the upcoming monsoon session of the state legislature to replace the UP Self-Financed Schools (Fixation of Fee) Ordinance, 2018, which regulates the fee structure in private schools.

The state cabinet, at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, today gave its approval in this regard.

The bill, which will replace the ordinance, aims at regulating the fee structure in private schools and check arbitrary fee hikes.

It will also cover minority institutions that have enrolled students in classes 1 to 12 and charge over Rs 20,000 per year as fees.

This will directly benefit the students, their parents and guardians in checking unnecessary financial burden and help improve the standard of education, a government spokesman said.

A brief session of the state legislature commences on August 23.

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The opposition BJP today accused the Biju Janata Dal government in Odisha of "failing to provide" a business climate and investment opportunities in the state.

BJP secretary Lekhashri Samantasinghar accused Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik of "misleading" people by making "false" claims on the business climate and investment opportunities.

"The state government makes tall claims of creating conducive environment for investors, but in reality, Odishas rank in ease of doing business has slipped from 7th to 14th in the last three years. This is sufficient to say that the government has failed to create an investment-friendly environment in the state," she said.

Ruling BJD spokesperson Sasmit Patra rejected BJP's allegation and claimed that the saffron party should appreciate that Odisha tops in the iron and steel production, aluminium production in the country and emerging as a leading exporter in marine products.

Odisha's IT export has also increased, Patra claimed.

"How the BJP leaders are overlooking the achievements of the state government," Patra asked



Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik along with members of Team Odisha today reached Mumbai. While officials will hold the road shows to seek investment, Patnaik is scheduled to meet top industrialists and apprise them of the opportunities available in the state.

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The BJP has reached out to the Opposition for a consensus on the name of NDA's nominee Harivansh for the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman while working to secure the support of neutral parties like the Biju Janata Dal in the event of an election.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar told reporters today that BJP leaders, including himself, have contacted the Congress and other opposition parties saying they wanted a consensus to emerge on Harivansh' name.

Tomorrow is the last day for filing nomination for the post and BJP sources said they wanted cross-party support for the JD(U) leader and therefore refrained from making any formal announcement about his candidature.

Opposition parties have been holding deliberations to decide their candidate.

With the NDA nominee likely to get support of 13 AIADMK members and six of the TRS, the decision of the BJD, which has nine members, will be significant.

If the BJD backs the NDA candidate, his prospects will brighten in case of an election but if it abstains from voting, then his fate will become more uncertain.

What has added to the suspense over Harivansh' fate is the ambivalence of BJP allies like Akali Dal, which had yesterday indicated that it may abstain, and Shiv Sena, which has often been critical of the BJP.

BJP leaders said they have reached out to the two partners and expressed confidence they would get their support.

The current strength of the Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in case of an election, if all members are present.

The BJP is the largest party in the House with 73 members, followed by the Congress with 50 members. The BJP's allies JD(U), Shiv Sena and Akali Dal have six, three and three members each respectively.

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More than 50 social thinkers, bureaucrats, activists and academics of the Dalit community today attended a day-long deliberation organised by the Centre for Dalit Studies, India Foundation, a statement said.

BJP general secretary Ram Madhav, also a member of the board of governors of the think-tank, ICCR president and BJP MP Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, RSS joint general secretary V Bhagaiah, Union minister Arjun Meghwal, BJP MPs Udit Raj and Vinod Sonkar and former Union minister Sanjay Paswan were among those who took part in the roundtable with Dalit thinkers.

"The day witnessed a robust exchange of ideas between Dalit thinkers and leadership of government and the party," the statement said.

It said Dalit entrepreneurs put forth their views on developing business as an alternative mode of empowerment, while academics spoke about ensuring diversity and adequate representation of Dalits in both bar and bench of judiciary.

Some bureaucrats spoke about discriminatory practices within bureaucracy which is "deep seated" and needs to be removed.

Example of schemes like post-matric scholarship and Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship were cited and how these schemes can be updated with contemporary social needs, it said.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh met them over lunch at his residence and said he has taken note of suggestions that have come out of the meeting and will share them with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the statement said.

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The opposition BJP Legislators today staged a sit-in inside Delhi Assembly premises after their demand for a debate on illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants in the national capital was turned down by Speaker Ram Niwas Goel.

They had also sought an exercise on the lines of Assam's NRC to identify and evict the illegal immigrants and demanded a Bill to facilitate the same.

The BJP legislators, wielding placards, staged a protest outside the chamber of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in Vidhan Sabha.

The three including Leader of Opposition Vijender Gupta, Jagdish Pradhan and O P Sharma pressed for the debate but the Speaker rejected it saying he will not allow discussions on unlisted subjects.

Sharma alleged illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants were involved in criminal activities in the city.

"This is an issue related to national security but AAP government is shying away from a debate on it. An exercise like the National Register for Citizens (NRC) in Assam should also be conducted in Delhi," Gupta told reporters.

The leader of opposition had tried to raise the matter yesterday also through a calling attention motion.

The demand has been raised by other BJP leaders also, including the party's Delhi unit chief Manoj Tiwari.

Tiwari had recently written to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh as well as Kejriwal seeking action against illegal immigrants in Delhi.

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Boko Haram jihadists have killed seven villagers in a dawn raid in Nigeria's restive northeast, local militia and a resident said today.

Gunmen in trucks and on motorcycles late Monday attacked Munduri, a village 13 kilometres (eight miles) north of Borno state capital Maiduguri, firing guns and rocket-propelled grenades, according to resident Abdullahi Bunu.

"The attackers seized seven people and beheaded them before setting fire to the entire village," militia leader Umar Ari told AFP by telephone from Maiduguri.

Those who were decapitated were the village chief and his wife, Bunu said.

"We returned this morning and found the entire village burnt along with all our food supplies and livestock".

Boko Haram has intensified its armed campaign in recent weeks, including against military targets in which dozens of troops are believed to have been either killed or missing.

The rebels have split into two groups, and it was not immediately clear which was behind the latest attack.

A faction loyal to Abubakar Shekau is notorious for indiscriminate killings of civilians while the Abu Mus'ab Al-Barnawi faction -- which is affiliated to the so-called Islamic State -- largely focuses on attacking the military.

Five people were killed in a similar raid last week in Gasarwa village, near the garrison town of Monguno.

The attacks contrast with repeated claims by the military and the government that Boko Haram has been defeated and that it is safe for people displaced by Islamist violence to return home.

The jihadists' nine-year campaign to establish a hardline Islamic state has killed an estimate 20,000 people and displaced over 2.6 million from their homes.

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The Bombay High Court today refused to grant parole to gangster Abu Salem to marry, observing that he has been convicted on a serious charge of terrorism.

Salem, 46, sentenced to life imprisonment in the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case, had moved the high court seeking release from prison on parole for a month as he wants to marry Kausar Bahar, a resident of Mumbra area in Thane district.

The gangster, who is lodged at Taloja jail in Navi Mumbai, approached the high court after prison authorities rejected his plea for parole.

Rejecting the petition, a division bench of Acting Chief Justice V K Tahilramani and Justice M S Sonak observed Salem has been convicted on the serious charge of terrorism and hence cannot be released on parole.

In his petition, Salem said he is lodged in jail since November 2005.

The applicant had said the parole request should be considered on "humanitarian grounds" as he cannot shun his duty towards the woman since he has promised to marry her, and that she also does not intend to marry anyone else.

Salem said he should be allowed to maintain family and social ties.

In his plea, he did not mention the date when he intends to marry.

Last year, a special court convicted Salem in the 1993 blasts case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) and the Arms Act.

The court had sentenced him to life imprisonment in the case.

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Brazil closed its northern border today to Venezuelans to slow mass migration, local highway police said.

The measure follows a federal judge's decision yesterday that puts a stop to the entry of more Venezuelans until a greater number of immigrants from the economically beset South American nation are transferred elsewhere in Brazil.

The border remains open to Brazilians and other nationalities, as well as to Venezuelans seeking to return to their home country, officials said.

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A Brazilian federal court has ordered a block on Venezuelans crossing the border from their economically imploding country, but there was no indication Monday of the suspension yet taking effect.

The judge, in the northern Brazilian state of Roraima on the Venezuelan border, said in his "provisional" ruling issued on Sunday that the order should take effect immediately. It applies to land crossings at the border, not air or sea arrivals.

Roraima's capital Boa Vista has seen its number of inhabitants swell by nearly eight percent with the arrival of some 25,000 Venezuelans over the past two years.

A government body helping arriving Venezuelans, the Logistics and Humanitarian Task Force, said the suspension had not come into effect by yesterday. It said the government was working to suspend the court order.

Most Venezuelans leaving their country -- where food and medicine are scarce and their money, the bolivar, has become practically worthless -- do so by crossing at land border points.

It is estimated that around 500 a day cross into Brazil. Most settle in Roraima state, but others go on to other Brazilian states or to other countries such as Argentina or Chile.

The court order has the backing of Roraima's governor, Suely Campos, who said in a statement that "we have been asking the Supreme Court to close the border since May."



Brazilian President Michel Temer has said several times that the border with Venezuela would not be closed.

In the first half of this year, 56,740 Venezuelans sought legal status to stay in Brazil, with 35,540 of them applying for refugee status.

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Britannia Industries Limited, which earns 70 per cent of its revenue from biscuits segment, would gradually increase the pie of non-biscuits category by going into new product launches, its managing director Varun Berry said.

In value terms, Britannia's market share in the biscuits category is 33 per cent.

"Now 70 per cent of the revenue of the company comes from biscuits segment and the remaining 30 per cent from other non-biscuits food products", Berry told reporters here last evening on the occasion of Britannia's centenary year.

Berry said "we want to take this ratio to 50:50 without sacrificing the biscuits business by expansion of capacity".

The company, which also launched a new logo, yesterday proposed splitting of stock and issue of bonus debentures subject to necessary approvals.

He said that Britannia would grow organically and also be on the lookout at opportunities for acquisitions, adding the company was 'aiming for the top spot' in the foods business.

Regarding the dairy business, he said that investments would be made in the back-end to control the supply chain.

Berry said that Ranjangaon plant would be commercialised in the next couple of months, while the Mundra one was also operational.

On the Nepal plant, an official said that Britannia had already acquired market leadership.

Berry added that Britannia aims to have control over the Indian sub-continent and Africa.

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Business leaders today condoled the death of DMK leader M Karunanidhi, describing him as "a giant among men" with a knack for humour and as a leader who ensured a remarkable industrial growth of Tamil Nadu.

"Political leaders in Tamil Nadu have always been larger than life. Kalaignar Karunanidhi ji was a giant among men for sure. But in every encounter that I had with him I was struck by his informality, his humour and his hearty laugh.The most celebrated men are always the most human," industrialist Anand Mahindra said.

"An iconic political leader who led with conviction," another business leader, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw of Biocon group said while paying her tributes.

Karunanidhi, a colossus of Dravidian politics, died in Chennai today after waging a grim battle for life for 11 days.

Karunanidhi, one of the most charismatic leaders of Tamil Nadu whose public life spanned over seven decades, was 94. He was five-time chief minister.

Union Minister Arun Jaitley tweeted he was extremely pained by the sad demise of "an exceptional politician and mass leader".

"He was a great human being. His contributions to Tamil Nadu and national will always be remembered," Jaitley said while extending his condolences to Karunanidhi's family members and the party.

Former finance minister P Chidambaram said, "In the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi, the nation and the Tamil people have lost a colossus who was more than the 50-year leader of a political party and a five-time Chief Minister."



"Kalaignar had the unique honour of being an acknowledged multi-faceted leader in multiple fields such as politics, literature, journalism, drama, cinema, art, philosophy and government administration," he said.

Industry body CII said the country has lost a great visionary, dynamic and inspiring leader who ensured equitable socio-economic development of Tamil Nadu.

In a statement, CII President Rakesh Bharti Mittal condoled the demise and said "during the tenure of Dr Karunanidhi as Chief Minister over many terms, industrial growth in Tamil Nadu had progressed remarkably well."



Several key initiatives were taken through his inspirational direction and strong encouragement, said the CII President, adding that "these contributed greatly to industrial development in the state."Mittal referred to notable programs where CII partnered with the late Chief Minister such as District Development Plans, Southern Districts initiative in Tamil Nadu, Development of IT parks in Tier II Cities and ICT Academy of Tamil Nadu in partnership with the State Government.

"Industry in the state will always miss his towering personality and erudite guidance," said Mittal.

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The two businessman brothers from Maharashtra's Thane district, who were kidnapped from Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia last week, have been freed, the police today said.

Additional Commissioner of Police Pravin Pawar told reporters that according to the latest information, the brothers have been released and are safe.

They will return to India soon, he said here.

Rohan Prakash Vaidya (36) and Kaustubh Prakash Vaidya, (31), residents of Dombivali in the district, own a fish export firm called Rock Frozen Food and had gone to Malaysia on August 1 after receiving an order from a firm there called Mis Lee Frozen Foods, according to the complaint from Rajiv Vaidya, the brothers' paternal uncle.

As per the complaint, one of the brothers called up home on August 2, around 10.30 pm, to inform the family that they had been kidnapped by unknown persons who were demanding a ransom of Rs 1 crore, police said.

The family received several calls from the siblings on August 3, between 8 and 11 pm, repeating the demand following which their uncle lodged a complaint with Dombivali police.

Family members also got in touch with the Indian Embassy in Malaysia and a complaint was lodged with the southeast Asian country's police as well, an official, quoting the FIR, had said.

In a tweet tonight, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "I am happy to inform that with the efforts of our High Commissioner Mridul Kumar and his team, Malaysian Police has secured release of both Indian nationals on 6th August 2018.

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National auditor CAG today raised questions over a USD 2.1 billion Indian Navy contract awarded to Boeing during the previous UPA regime, suggesting the American defence major was favoured over rival bidder EADS CASA of Spain for procuring a fleet of P-8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft.

In its report tabled in Parliament, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) said the defence ministry enhanced the financial bid of Spanish aerospace firm to provide for a 20 year "product support" cost on assumption that Boeing's offer had similar provision.

Boeing, at a later stage, offered the aircraft maintenance support under a separate negotiable contract, the auditor said, while terming as incorrect the conclusion that the American company was the lowest bidder (L1).

It said enhancing the financial bid of the Spanish company by including its product support cost resulted in pushing it to L-2 status (second lowest bidder).

As per the report, the contract was concluded with Boeing in January 2009 at USD 2.1 billion (about Rs 14,500 crore at the current exchange rate).

"At a later date, Boeing, USA, offered the product support under a separate negotiable contract and consequently the deduced ranking of Boeing, USA as L-1 turned out to be incorrect," it said.

The CAG observed that the American aircraft was not "fully meeting" the needs of the Indian Navy, mainly due to limitations of radars installed onboard the aircraft.

The national auditor said the defence ministry had set the offset obligation by Boeing at USD 641 million (Rs 3,127.43 crore).

The CAG said Boeing is yet to fulfil the offset obligations, which was to be met by August 2016. "Boeing, USA had claimed offset credits on mere placement of purchase orders defeating the very purpose of offset obligations," it observed.

Under India's offset policy, foreign defence entities are mandated to spend at least 30 per cent of the total contract value in India through procurement of components or setting up of research and development facilities.

The 2009 deal was for eight P-8I (Poseidon Eight India) aircraft. The first aircraft came to India in May 2013 and all the eight aircraft have been fully integrated into Indian Navy's operations.

The P-8I aircraft is a variant of the P-8A Poseidon aircraft that Boeing developed as a replacement for the US Navy's ageing P-3 fleet.

Indian Navy became the first international customer for the aircraft which is equipped for long range anti submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and surveillance.

The CAG also criticised delays in procuring bombs as part of the weapons for the aircraft.

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CAG today rapped the Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for incurring an "avoidable expenditure" of Rs 481.6 million on the construction of the integrated MIA metro station.

The Comptroller and General (CAG) said despite substantive changes in the scope of work planned in the detailed project report (DPR) and additional expenditure of Rs 481.6 million, the management did not seek the approval of the Board of Directors, which is required in such matters.

In its report that was tabled in Parliament today, the CAG flagged failure on part of the while entering into an agreement with the Development Authority (DDA) to incorporate a provision that the additional expenditure on the integrated Mundka Industrial Area (MIA) station would be met by the authority.

The had received a proposal in October 2013 from the DDA for shifting the MIA metro station planned in Phase-III (Green Line) and integrating it with the future metro station on a proposed metro line at the junction of NH-10, Urban Extension Road and bus stops at BRT corridor, according to the report.

The proposal involved least movement of DMRC and BRT users to change from one service to other.

"The integrated MIA metro station was not part of the original plan of the DMRC, but was executed at the request of DDA.

"However, no agreement or MoU, stipulating that DDA would bear the additional expenditure to be incurred on the integrated MIA station, was entered into with DDA," the CAG said in its report.

It stated that the DMRC continued with the construction work despite DDA declining to bear additional cost on construction of integrated MIA metro stations, without resolving the issue with the authority.

"Thus in the absence of an agreement/MoU with DDA, DMRC had incurred an avoidable expenditure of Rs 48.16 crore till November 15, 2017..." report also stated.

The report also included the reply of the DMRC management which stated that as provision of the station was beyond the contractual provisions, the managing director approved the variation in the contract considering the DDA's acceptance to bear the additional cost beyond the present scope.

However, the CAG did not accept the reply of DMRC management.
The Calcutta High Court today rejected the anticipatory bail plea of former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh's husband M A V Raju in connection with its



probe into a case of alleged extortion and illegal exchange of banned notes for gold.

Appearing for the state, Advocate General Kishore Dutta opposed the anticipatory bail plea of Raju and submitted that huge amount of money has been seized from his flat.

Dutta submitted before a division bench comprising Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay that other persons have also given statements that Raju had allegedly kept money in their flats.

The AG, who was assisted by public prosecutor Saswata Gopal Mukherjee, told the court that custodial interrogation of Raju is necessary to unravel the missing links and to bring out the larger conspiracy in defrauding the public.

Raju's counsel submitted that he has been cooperating with the state CID, the investigating agency, as directed by the court, and his custody is not required for investigation.

Raju had been granted interim respite by another division bench in February when he moved court with his plea. The court had then restrained the CID from arresting him till disposal of his anticipatory bail plea and had directed him to cooperate with the investigators.

His counsel had earlier submitted that he was being harassed as he was Ghosh's husband.

Ghosh, who was the West Midnapore superintendent of police for more than six years, was transferred as commandant of the third battalion of the state armed police on December 26 last year. She resigned from service two days later.

She was once considered close to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and was also awarded a service medal on August 15, 2014.

The civil servant was transferred twice, once by the Election Commission before the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the second time by the state itself before the 2016 Assembly elections.

She was, however, reinstated as West Midnapore SP as soon as the elections got over on both occasions.

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Police today registered a case against members of a union of Yellow-and-Black taxi operators for allegedly threatening staff members of GoaMiles, an app-based cab service of Goa Tourism Development Corporation.

GoaMiles, the first mobile app-based cab service in Goa, was launched by Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar yesterday.

Cases were registered against Sanjay Naik, president of the United Taximen Association (UTA), a union of taxi operators at Dabolim International Airport, and four others, said inspector Nolasco Rapos of Dabolim police station.

The UTA members allegedly threatened the staff at GoaMiles' counter outside the airport earlier today, he said.

Police invoked IPC sections 504 (breach of peace) and 506 (criminal intimidation) against them, Rapos said. Nobody has been arrested yet.

Sanjay Naik claimed that the police case was an attempt to "suppress" the taxi drivers' agitation against "illegal" counter of GoaMiles. "We will continue our protest," he said.

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A day after the CBI detained three customs officials at the Tiruchirapalli airport for alleged connivance with smugglers, the agency today raided a flat belonging to one of them.

A four-member CBI team searched the flat of Customs Superintendent S Ramakrishnan at Kovaipudur for nearly two hours and reportedly recovered some documents, police said.

The central agency had yesterday detained three customs officials, including an assistant commissioner at the Tiruchirapalli airport.

The assistant commissioner and two customs superintendents were detained after a crack down in which the CBI found that several passengers, who arrived from Singapore yesterday, were cleared by the Customs despite allegedly carrying contraband.

The CBI searches came in the background of regular attempts to smuggle gold, turtles and other items through the Tiruchirapalli airport.

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The CBI has recovered over Rs 50 lakh during its searches at the premises of six customs officials arrested for allegedly aiding a smuggling gang at the Trichy Airport in Tamil Nadu, officials said today.

The agency has also recovered gold worth Rs 35 lakh being snuggled by the gang, they said.

In addition to six custom officials, the agency has also arrested 13 members of the gang, including three Sri Lanka nationals.

The officials said this was a serious security issue as the custom officials were allegedly letting contraband in the country without any checking at the airport.

The CBI has carried out searches at 22 locations in Trichy, Coimbatore, Madurai, Virudhunagar, Chennai and Rasipuram.

The agency had busted the gang on Sunday during a surprise check on getting input that large scale smuggling was taking place at the airport in connivance with the customs officials, CBI Spokesperson Abhishek Dayal said.

Earlier, during this operation at the Trichy Airport, the CBI recovered Rs 9 lakh (approx) collected as alleged illegal gratification, he said.

Dayal said the smuggling was allowing goods from Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia etc to enter into the country without the payment of customs duty, thereby causing huge revenue loss to the government of India.

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The Uttar Pradesh government today recommended a CBI inquiry into the Deoria shelter home case, involving possible sexual abuse of the inmates, hours after a girl missing from there was found at an old age home run by the same NGO in Gorakhpur.

Earlier, the UP Women and Child Welfare Minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi admitted there had been laxity at the district level in not shutting down the Deoria shelter even after a closure order last year.

Five people who were involved in running the Gorakhpur shelter have been detained.

Police said the girl from the Deoria shelter should not have been at the Gorakhpur home, as it is meant for the elderly.

When the police raided the Deoria shelter on Sunday night, a rescued inmate had told them that some girls from there used to be taken to Gorakhpur, and then brought back the next day.

The CBI inquiry was announced by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who has also constituted a special investigation team (SIT) to ensure there is no tampering of evidence till the central agency takes over.

Adityanath held the previous governments responsible for the manner in which the NGO was being run, but also said the role of the local police will probed.

Seeing the sin and laxity of the previous governments, all those who were responsible, and in order to make things crystal clear we have decided that the entire incident will be handed over to the CBI, he told reporters.

He also mentioned the presence of boys at the Deoria shelter, saying they will be shifted to other child protection homes.

The Deoria case surfaced on Sunday night when one of the girls escaped from the shelter home and complained to the police.

The police said they rescued 24 girls from there and found that 18 others were missing.

One of the missing girl was recovered from the old age home in Gorakhpur this evening, police said.

DM Vijyendra Pandiyan said those detained in Gorakhpur include Ma Vindhyavasini NGO's arrested manager Girija Devi's widowed daughter Kanaklata, who stays there with her four-year-old daughter.

The five, including a clerk, a female cook and a housemaid, will be handed over to Deoria police, Pandiyan said.

Pandiyan said the presence of the girl from the Deoria home had not been recorded in the register when a team went there yesterday.

But the name was there today.

"The age of the girl is not confirmed as there is overwriting and she told us she came here on August 5 from the Deoria shelter home, he said.

Another official said the age had been entered as 21 in the register.

Pandiyan said the girl was in a state of shock.

She is continuously changing her statement. As per the Deoria police record, the woman was missing from the Ma Vindhyavasini shelter home," the DM said.

Meanwhile, the superintendent of the Deoria shelter home Kanchanlata Tripathi, who was on the run, was arrested in Deoria, SP Rohan P Kanay said.

The CM said the NGO has been operating since 2009 and the previous government had liberally given grants to this organization.

He said the role of police will also be probed as an FIR was lodged on July 30 but no action was taken against the shelter.

An additional director of police has been directed to probe the role of police.

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The Competition Commission has dismissed a complaint alleging abuse of dominant position against Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation and two senior state officials with regard to bidding conditions in certain tenders.

The complaint was rejected after finding no prima-facie evidence of violation of competition norms, according to an order.

The complaint was filed by the proprietor of Tamil Nadu-based Star Export.

It was alleged that Social Welfare Department's Principal Secretary and Tamil Nadu Civil Supplies Corporation (TNCSC) had changed the pre-qualification criteria in the tenders floated for procurement of eggs, Canadian yellow lentil and palmolein oil, thereby restricting many entities from participating in the tendering process.

For the case, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) considered the markets for procurement of Canadian yellow lentil, palmolein oil and egg for noon meal scheme in India, as relevant ones.

In its order, dated August 6, the regulator said it did not find any prima facie evidence of contravention of Section 4 of the Competition Act.

Section 4 pertains to abuse of dominant market position.

"In the present case, the prerogative of deciding the criteria for qualification of bidders is vested in TNCSC... TNCSC, in this regard appears to have acted to ensure that the supplier participating in the tender has the capacity and resources to successfully execute the work for an uninterrupted supply of essential commodities," the order said.

"Further, the conditions in the tender requiring the bidders to comply with statutory compliances cannot be said to be anti-competitive merely because it could eliminate certain bidders from participating in the tenders," the CCI said.

As per the order, Social Welfare Department's Principal Secretary is procuring as a customer only for the welfare of the weaker section of the society.

The Competition Commission said that it is in public interest that certain pre-conditions or qualifications of the tenderers have to be laid down to ensure that the contractor has the capacity and the resources to successfully execute the work and for ensuring supply of huge quantity of quality eggs on time without any hiccups.

"In this regard, the Commission is of the view that the allegation raised by the Informant in relation to the procedure followed by the state government for the said procurement does not prima facie appear to raise any competition concern," the CCI said.

With regard to Food and Consumer Protection Department's Principal Secretary, the CCI said the person does not float tenders but it is TNCSC which floats tenders for procurement of Canadian yellow lentil and palmolein oil.

As per the order, the complainant has also not revealed the relationship between Food and Consumer Protection Department's Principal Secretary and TNCSC.

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The Jammu and Kashmir police today arrested a drug peddler and recovered 45 kilograms charas from his possession, whose market value is estimated at Rs one crore.

Hailing from Maharashtra's Thane, Mohammad Zakir Sheikh was attempting to transport the high grade contraband outside the state when he was caught, senior superintendent of police, Kathua, Shridhar Patil said.

A police party intercepted a Punjab-bound vehicle near Chadwal along Jammu-Pathkot highway and recovered the drugs from a specially build cavity, Patil told reporters here.

The driver of the vehicle was booked under NDPS act, Patil added.

Quoting preliminary investigation, he said more arrests and recoveries were expected in the case.

The recovery comes a day after 51 kilograms of heroin worth over Rs 250 crore was seized from a truck in Jammu and 1400 kgs of poppy husk was recovered from Lakhanpur toll post in Kathua bordering Punjab.

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Amid the trade war with the US, China has reported a current account deficit of $28.3 billion in the first half of this year, which is the first in 20 years for the world's second-largest

China also recorded its first quarterly current account deficit in nearly 17 years this year, ending its dream run of accumulating trade surplus as top exporter for years and the deficit carried on to the first half of this year.

The deficit in the current account stood at $28.3 billion in the January-June period, down from $34.1 billion in the first quarter, the State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) said in a statement.

China's service trade posted a deficit of $147.3 billion up from $73.6 billion three months earlier. The spending on trips, transport, and intellectual property rights contributed to the bulk of the deficit, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

China, however, saw a goods trade surplus of $155.9 billion in H1 2018. This is the first half-year deficit in 20 years as spending on overseas services continued rising and outpaced income generated from the sale of goods by the world's largest exporter, Caixin magazine reported.

The country's current account surplus has been steadily shrinking since the 2008 economic crisis as it moved towards increasing domestic consumption to reduce dependence on declining exports, which were the mainstay of its economic growth. The world's second largest posted 6.9 per cent GDP last year and the government has fixed 6.5 per cent as this year's growth target.

China's overall trade and current account surpluses have fallen significantly as a percentage of its GDP since 2007.



Its current account surplus declined from 9.9 per cent of GDP in 2007 to 1.3 per cent in 2017, according to the data of SAFE.

Analysts forecast a narrowing surplus or more frequent current account deficits against the backdrop of trade tensions between China and the US.

Caixin quoted Zhang Ming, chief economist at Ping An Securities as saying that as goods trade comes under pressure and as service trade continues expanding, China may see more current account deficits.

Zhang said the deficit also reflects a falling domestic saving rate, which may be partly because of the aging population.

The current account deficit for China came amid the intensifying trade tariff war with the US as continue to pile pressure on Beijing by threatening to impose tariffs on Chinese products to reduce the trade deficit which amounted to over $375 billion last year in the total bilateral trade of about $636 billion.

Though concerned about the impact on its exports to the US, China too has threatened retaliation to protect its interests.

SAFE said in yesterday's statement that China's balance of payments was within a range of equilibrium last quarter and will continue to remain reasonable in the future.

The data also showed stable cross-border capital inflows in the second quarter.

China's financial account maintained net inflows, with a surplus of $18.2 billion. Net foreign direct investment stood at $58.6 billion.
CPI-affiliated CITU and various rights bodies will organise a 'Jail Bharo' (court arrest) protest in Mumbai on Thursday against the "anti-worker" and "anti-farmer" policies of the Narendra Modi government.

Members of various organisations will take out a march from Churchgate railway station to Hutatma Chowk in south Mumbai to mark the Quit India Day, CPI (M) Central Committee member Mahendra Singh told reporters today.

He said the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), All-India Agricultural Workers' Union (AIAWU), All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) and the members of All India Democratic Women's Association (AIDWA)--the women's wing of the CPI (M)--will participate in the protest.

"Modi government has been pursuing anti-worker and anti-employee policies since the last four years. These policies are against the interests of poor sections like hawkers, construction workers, aanganwadi workers and employees working in organised and unorganised sectors," he said.

Singh said a joint call has been given by various bodies, defence veterans, youths, dalits and students to Modi government to "quit".

"The 'Jail Bharo' agitation will be held in various states," he said.

Singh said their demands included minimum monthly wage of Rs 18,000 for workers; strengthening and expanding PDS (Public Distribution System), elimination of contract labour, equal wages for equal work, creation of new jobs etc.

Mumbai unit CITU president Ashok Banerjee said around 15 lakh protesters from across the country, including one lakh from Maharashtra, are expected to join the upcoming agitation.

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The civic bodies today informed the Delhi High Court about the preventive steps taken by them to control vector-borne diseases, including dengue and chikungunya, in the national capital.

The awareness programmes undertaken by the municipal agencies include street plays, school rallies, community programmes, exhibitions, interactions with resident welfare associations and distribution of handbills with health messages among public, the status report filed by the MCD said.

It was filed before a bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar, which listed it for hearing on September 18.

The report also mentioned the data of dengue, chikungunya and malaria cases in areas under the East, South and North Delhi Municipal Corporations and other agencies like NDMC, Delhi Cantonment and Railway.

According to the report, a total of 56 dengue, 37 chikungunya and 109 malaria cases were reported in Delhi, but there were no deaths.

The corporations said they conducted exercises to check mosquito breeding in houses, legal notices were issued and prosecution was launched against defaulters and focal spray was carried out where breeding was found.

The court was hearing two PILs filed by advocates Arpit Bhargava and Gauri Grover seeking directions to the authorities to take steps to prevent the spread of vector-borne diseases in Delhi.

Anguished over the lack of cleanliness and hygiene in parts of the national capital, the high court had earlier said the city will die if the situation does not improve as people may have to move out to make room for the increasing garbage.

The court had warned authorities of stringent penal action if anyone dies or is infected by vector-borne diseases. It had said if immediate action is not taken by the Centre, the Delhi government or the civic bodies, it will be forced to take strict action against all of them.

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A 16-year-old boy studying in Class X got washed away in flash floods while crossing a stream on his way to school in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district today, officials said.

Raja Owais, who was going to appear in the first-term examination, drowned in Chinyass nullah (stream) in Bhalessa area this morning, said Bhadarwah Assistant Superintendent of Police Rajinder Singh.

A police party from Gandoh immediately rushed to the spot and started rescue operations. After hectic search, the body of the teenager was fished out from the stream and handed over to his family, Singh said.

Officials said the district authorities ordered closure of all schools for the day as a precautionary measure in view of the inclement weather.

Most parts the state, including Doda, were lashed by heavy rains since last night, triggering mudslides that led to road closures at a number of places in the hilly district, the officials said.

Traffic on the Batote-Kishtwar highway was restored partially after remaining suspended for over five hours due to landslides at several places, including Dansal, Assar and Koura Pani. The clearance operation is still going on, said Zohaib Hassan, the deputy superintendent of police, traffic.

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The CBI today approached the Delhi High Court seeking an enhanced jail term for former Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda, who along with others was convicted and sentenced to three years imprisonment in a coal scam case.

Besides Koda, the CBI has also sought enhancement of punishment for other convicts, his close aide Vijay Joshi, former Jharkhand chief secretary A K Basu and ex-coal secretary H C Gupta.

They all were sentenced to three years in jail by a trial court in December last year. Their sentences were suspended by the high court when they moved the superior court against their conviction and sentence.

The firm, Vini Iron and Steel Udyog Ltd (VISUL), was also convicted in the case and a fine of Rs 50 lakh was imposed on it by the trial court.

The CBI has also filed a plea challenging the acquittal of several accused by the trial court.

Senior advocate R S Cheema, appearing for the CBI, said the agency has appealed against the acquittal of four persons VISUL's former director Vaibhav Tulsyan and two public servants Basant Kumar Bhattacharya and Bipin Bihari Singh and chartered accountant Navin Kumar Tulsyan in the case.

The agency has also challenged the acquittal of Joshi and VISUL for the alleged offence of cheating and Gupta's acquittal for the alleged offence of criminal breach of trust by public servant and under the provision of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

As the separate appeals filed by the CBI and the convicts were listed before different benches today, justices Mukta Gupta and R K Gauba said that the matter be put up before the Chief Justice for fixing it for hearing before the concerned bench for September 10.

Koda, ex-coal secretary H C Gupta, Basu and Joshi were awarded jail terms of three years for indulging in corrupt practices and hatching a criminal conspiracy in the allocation of Rajhara North coal block in Jharkhand to the Kolkata-based company.

The convicts were granted statutory bail by the trial court for a period of two months to enable them file appeals in the high court challenging the verdict.

The high court had stayed the trial court order also imposing a fine of Rs 50 lakh, Rs 25 lakh, Rs 25 lakh and Rs one lakh on VISUL, Koda, Joshi and Basu respectively.

While sentencing the convicts, the special court had said "white collar crimes" were more "dangerous" to the society than ordinary crimes.

The trial court had also imposed a fine Rs one lakh on Gupta in the UPA-era coal scam.

The convicts were tried for offences under sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy) read with 420 (cheating) and 409 (criminal breach of trust by public servants) of the IPC and under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

While the offence of cheating carries a maximum of seven years jail term, criminal breach of trust by public servants entails a maximum punishment of life imprisonment.

The CBI had said that the firm had applied for allocation of Rajhara North coal block on January 8, 2007.

It had said that although the Jharkhand government and the steel ministry did not recommend VISUL's case for coal block allocation, the 36th Screening Committee recommended the block to the accused firm.

The CBI had said that Gupta, who was chairman of the screening committee, had concealed facts from then prime minister Manmohan Singh, who at that time headed the coal ministry too, that Jharkhand had not recommended VISUL for allocation of a coal block.

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Commuters in Haryana had a harrowing time today as around 20,000 Haryana Roadways employees went on a day-long strike in protest against the state government's decision to introduce 700 private buses in the state.

Nearly 4,000 buses in the state remained off roads, hitting inter-state and intra-state services.

Employees under the banner of Haryana Roadways Karamchari Joint Action Committee even held protests and demonstrations at several bus depots including Rohtak, Jind, Sirsa, Rewari and raised slogans against the state government.

Police personnel were deployed at several bus stands to prevent any untoward incident.

"Our day long strike has been successful... Around 4,000 buses did not ply on any route in the state and 20,000 employees of Haryana Roadways participated," said Haryana Roadways Workers Union, general secretary, Sarbat Singh Punia.

Agitating employees said they would not allow the state government to launch 700 private buses in the state as it would lead to privatisation of the transport department.

"We want the Haryana government to withdraw its decision of introducing private buses in the state,' he said.

They said the government should instead increase the number of buses under the roadways department.

The protesters also expressed their dejection over the Motor Vehicle Amendment Bill 2017 alleging that it would promote privatisation of bus services.

"We have also been demanding the filling of 6,500 vacant posts lying vacant in transport department," he said.

Punia said that a meeting will be held in Jind tomorrow to deliberate on the future course of action if the state government does not accede to their demands.

He further said the government has issued notices to over 1,600 drivers who participated in the strike.

"We will again hold protests if the state government harasses the 1,628 drivers who are on probation," said Punia.

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Opposition parties that have joined hands against the BJP today authorised the Congress to choose their joint candidate in the election for the post of Deputy Chairperson of Rajya Sabha.

As most parties were not keen on fielding their members, the Congress, being the largest opposition party, was unanimously asked to select a candidate.

After a third round of meeting during the day, an opposition leader on condition of anonymity said, "Though the name of NCP's Vandana Chavan was discussed, the NCP was not too keen on projecting its member. No other party also wanted to field their nominee, so the Congress was authorised to pick a candidate. All opposition parties will support the Congress nominee."



Earlier, most opposition parties raised no objection to Chavan's name.

Chavan, whose name was proposed by Bahujan Samaj Party leader Satish Chandra Mishra and seconded by TMC leader Derek O'Brien, received every opposition party's support, including the Congress.

The Congress, the largest opposition party with 50 seats in the upper house, earlier felt its candidate might face strong resistance from some parties such as the TDP, which has decided to side with the Opposition camp on this matter.

According to the opposition leader, the TDP later agreed to support a Congress-picked candidate.

According to senior opposition leaders, they felt during the meeting that an NCP candidate from Maharashtra will be able to get the support of Shiv Sena, an NDA ally.

Opposition parties are also in touch with the BJD, which has not opened its cards yet.

In today's meeting, the opposition parties also discussed the matter pertaining to JD(U) leader and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar calling up Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik of the BJD seeking support for the NDA nominee, according to the opposition leader.

The NDA has fielded Harivansh Narayan Singh of the JD(U) for the August 9 election.

At present, both the camps are trying hard to get the numbers required to get their candidate elected to the post.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The BJP today said the Congress is supporting Trinamool Congress's "blockade" of the Rajya Sabha to prevent its president Amit Shah from speaking in the House.

Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad called it undemocratic and a new low in parliamentary democracy.

TMC members stormed into the Well of the House minutes after BJP president Amit Shah began speaking on agrarian issues.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu adjourned the House for the day due to unrelenting protests by the TMC.

At a press conference, he also accused the Congress of being "anti-Dalit and anti-tribal" as the Rajya Sabha's agenda had included a debate on a bill to strengthen a law on atrocities against Dalits but it could not be taken up due to adjournment.

The Lok Sabha had passed the bill yesterday.

Hitting back at the TMC, he said in a jibe that people knew how much respect it had for democracy, referring to reports of violence during local body polls in West Bengal and election of many party members unopposed, allegedly due to threats to opposition nominees.

Opposition members had disrupted Shah's speech in the House during a debate on the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam as well.

That time Shah had addressed a press conference to hit out at the Congress and the TMC.

The law minister said the TMC had the "patronage" of the Congress in the House.

He said Naidu had elicited views from all other parties as the TMC protested and every party except the Congress said they wanted the debate to continue.

The Congress gave an ambiguous and wishy-washy reply, he said, accusing it of supporting the TMC's blockade of the House.

Will the president of a party which is in power in the country and in 20 states be not allowed to speak in the Rajya Sabha, he asked, wondering what kind of precedence the opposition parties are setting.

The Congress is running away from a debate on agriculture as it would expose the party as the Modi government had done a lot for farmers while the UPA did little in its 10 years rule, he said.

Prasad quoted a recent article of noted farm expert M S Swaminathan, who had played a crucial role in green revolution in India, to support his claims. Swaminathan had credited the Modi government with taking a number of initiatives in the sector.

Asked about a poem TMC chief Mamata Banerjee had penned to target the BJP on the issue of NRC, he said she should also write one on the blot she brought to democracy during the local body polls in her state.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Congress president Rahul Gandhi today hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue of women safety and questioned his silence on the alleged incidents of rape of girls in some shelter homes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

The Congress leader said what they did against women in the past four years had not happened in the country in the past 3,000 years.

He hit out at the BJP's ideological mentor, the RSS, alleging that it was a "male chauvinist organisation" and did not have women in it, thus cannot do what the Congress can for women.

Gandhi also promised to extend his party's full support to the passage of the women reservation bill and said if the Modi government does not bring it, the Congress will do so soon after coming to power.

He also talked of empowering women within the Congress and bringing them forward in the organisation, for them to lead a state or the country one day. He promised to includes more women in central units of the AICC, saying "the country needs them".

Launching a fierce attack on the prime minister, he said various institutions were under attack by the BJP and the RSS, who have "devastated" the country, and that the Congress party will unitedly defeat them in the coming days.

Referring to the government's slogan of "beti bachao, beti padhao", he said that it was actually for "saving the daughters from BJP MLAs", an apparent reference to some BJP leaders accused in rape cases.

"Institutions are under attack in the country, be it Parliament, vidhan sabhas and the judiciary. Minorities, Dalits, women, tribals, small businessmen are under attack. We will fight the BJP and defeat them in the coming days.

"The Congress party and the opposition are working together to fight the ideology of the BJP. We are fighting an ideological battle," he said while addressing a "Mahila Adhikaar Sammelan" at Talkatora Stadium here.

"(He) had talked about changing India, had talked about 70 years...what they have done against women in the last four years, has not happened in the last 3,000 years in this country, leave alone 70 years," he said.

He questioned the silence of Modi on atrocities against women in the backdrop of rapes of girls in shelter homes in Muzaffarpur in Bihar and in Uttar Pradesh.

He said, "The prime minister speaks on everything - bullet train, toilets, but not women. Whenever there are atrocities on women, he does not speak up."



He also said that whenever he goes abroad and embraces leaders, he has no answer on why women are not safe in India.

Women are being raped in UP, Bihar and so many other states but the prime minister is quiet. Biggest difference between the BJP/RSS and the Congress is on the place of women.

Talking about the women reservation bill, which is pending for the last few years, the Congress chief said the BJP lacks commitment on the issue and cited the example of BJP's ideological mentor -- the RSS, which he said was a "male chauvinist organisation".

Promising to bring women forward within the Congress and give them their rightful place, Gandhi while pointing to the slogan "your fight is our fight" put up at the conference, said you can add "your right is Congress president's fight".

He promised to bring women forward in framing the policy, manifesto and the organisation. He said his job as the Congress president is to ensure women have equal space in the organisation.

"We are going to create space for you in the Congress party. We need to create special space for women in our party. We need to create a space at every level.

"The RSS and the BJP will never be able to show the country a similar vision. Their parent organisation, the RSS, in its history has never allowed a woman into its organisation. The RSS is purely a male organisation. There are other organisations in the BJP that have females in it, but RSS is a completely male chauvinist organisation that does not believe in giving space to women. So they simply can't do what we can do," he said.

He said if he faced with a choice between a man and a woman for selecting election candidate, he will choose whoever is more capable.

"If both are equally capable, I will choose the woman as a candidate," Gandhi said.

"My job as Congress president is to ensure, women have equal space in our organisation. Our aim is to have 50 per cent women in our party," he said.

Gandhi, along with Mahila Congress president Sushmita Dev, unveiled the flag and the symbol of Mahila Congress.

Gandhi also said that the media should no longer worry, while alleging that the BJP and RSS is frightening them.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Congress has decided to field its nominee as a joint opposition candidate for the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman after the other parties that have joined hands against the BJP chose not to nominate their candidate.

With the deadline for filing nominations ending tomorrow, the Government today reached out to the rival camp in a hope of building consensus on NDA nominee Harivansh Narayan Singh, who is from the JD(U).

At the same time, the BJP along with its allies was also trying to secure support of neutral parties like the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in the event of an election. Janata Dal (U) president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar spoke to his Odisha counterpart Naveen Patnaik seeking the BJD's support for his party candidate.

Leaders of a number of opposition parties today met twice after which they decided to put up a united fight for the post.

Various opposition parties were asked to discuss the issue with their leadership and propose a candidate suitable for the post.

However, the parties including the NCP, the SP, the TMC, BSP and Left parties said they will not field any candidate and asked the Congress to put up its candidate.

"The Congress party will be putting up a candidate for the deputy charman's post," said a senior Congress leader after the meeting.

An opposition leader said though the name of NCP's Vandana Chavan was discussed, the NCP was not too keen on fielding its member.

As no other party wanted to field their candidate, the Congress was authorised to pick a candidate and all opposition parties decided to support the nominee, the leader said.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar told reporters today that BJP leaders, including he himself, have contacted the Congress and other opposition parties as they wanted a consensus to emerge on Harivansh' name.

In Bhubaneswar, BJD spokesman Sasmit Patra said Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik will take a decision on the BJD's stand tomorrow after Nitish Kumar sougt his party's support.

Tomorrow is the last day for filing nomination for the post and BJP sources said they wanted cross-party support for the JD(U) leader and therefore refrained from making any formal announcement about his candidature.

The ambivalence of BJP ally Shiromani Akali Dal has added to the suspense over Harivansh's fate amid indications that the party may abstain. So could the Shiv Sena, which has been critical of the BJP.

Sources said the Akali Dal held a meeting of all its top leaders, including party MPs, at the residence of party chief Sukhbir Singh Badal.

Though the Akali Dal's stance was not immediately known, sources said Badal would be meeting BJP chief Amit Shah tonight before taking a final decision on the issue.

Sources, however, said that the SAD is likely to finally support the NDA nominee.

The NDA nominee is likely to get support of 13 AIADMK members and six of TRS, but the decision of the BJD, which has nine members, will be significant.

If the BJD backs the NDA candidate, his prospects will brighten in case of an election but if it abstains from voting, then his fate will become more uncertain.

The sources say the TDP has agreed to support a Congress-picked candidate.

In today's meeting, the opposition parties also discussed the matter pertaining to Nitish Kumar calling up BJD chief seeking support for the NDA nominee, the sources said.

The current strength of the Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in the full House.

The BJP is the largest party in the House with 73 members. Its allies JD(U), Shiv Sena, Akali Dal have 6, 3, 3 MPs respectively.

The BJP is hoping to get support of four of the six Independent members and three of the four nominated members.

The Congress has 50 members.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A controversy erupted tonight after the Tamil Nadu government rejected the opposition DMK's demand for allotting space on the Marina beach for the burial of its leader M Karunanidhi and offered space near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamraj.

DMK working president M K Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina.

Stalin had also met the chief minister hours before his father's death.

A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications."



Hence, the government is prepared to allott a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

Some reports said the government was reluctant about allotting space for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina as he was not a sitting chief minister.

Former chief minister M G Ramachandran and his protegee J Jayalalitha were buried at the Marina beach and memorials to them were erected there. Both were bitter foes of Karunanidhi in

Karunanidhi's predecessor Annadurai was also in office when he died.

DMK cadres held impromptu protests and engaged in sloganeering demanding a place for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina beach.

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A police officer was injured and several vehicles were vandalised during protests in Rajasthan's Sikar district today by villagers demanding reservation, police said.

Traffic movement was affected for a few hours on NH-52 as few villagers protested, demanding categorisation of OBC reservation quota and including a few castes in Scheduled Tribes category, a police officer said.

One policeman was injured and several vehicles were vandalised by agitated villagers' who pelted stones on them. Police resorted to lathi-charge as they were not convinced with the assurances, the officer said.

The traffic movement on the highway resumed after nearly three hours, he said.

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The US Justice Department attacked today a court ruling that allowed June's USD 85 billion mega-merger between AT&T and Time Warner to go forward, saying a federal judge had relied on faulty economics.

Federal prosecutors are asking a US appeals court to reverse the decision, which they say ignored the fact that American consumers are likely to pay hundreds of millions more per year for television services.

The June decision by US District Judge Richard Leon had dealt a stinging defeat to the Justice Department and handed a total victory to the companies.

But, in a brief filed today with the court, the agency said Leon had ignored economic theory by finding that Time Warner would not enjoy greater bargaining power over pay-TV distributors once the merger was complete -- possibly withholding highly popular content from HBO, CNN and others in order to extract higher fees from distributors.

"The court agreed that Time Warner enjoyed bargaining leverage before the merger but it illogically and erroneously concluded that Time Warner will have no increased leverage post-merger because blackouts are 'infeasible' so Time Warner cannot credibly threaten them," the brief said.

"The court's reasoning makes no sense, rendering clearly erroneous its analysis of the evidence on increased bargaining leverage." The case had been closely watched as setting a benchmark for other big corporate mergers in the media and communications sector.

In his original ruling, Leon had said the case fell short on all counts and urged the government not to lodge an appeal that would cause "irreparable" harm to the two companies after a year and a half of delay.

He maintained that the government's claim that pay TV costs would rise from the tieup was based on "speculative" logic and that its study from an expert witness was contradicted by other evidence from the government.

The deal brings together AT&T's networks and its DirecTV subscription service with the media assets of Time Warner.

The companies have argued anti-trust concerns are unjustified because they are not in the industrial sectors. AT&T has promised to let the Time Warner properties, renamed Warner Media, operate independently until 2019.

AT&T and Time Warner argue they need more scale to compete with online rivals like Netflix and Amazon, as well as with Silicon Valley giants like Apple, Facebook and Google, which are expanding in the rapidly evolving sector.

President Donald Trump had previously denounced the AT&T deal, vowing that his administration would block the merger because it would concentrate corporate power.

This fuelled speculation that Trump could be retaliating due to critical coverage of his administration from broadcaster CNN, a Time Warner property.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A Delhi court has sought response from the city police on a plea moved by Delhi Environment Minister Imran Hussain seeking call detail records in a case related to his alleged mobbing by officials, a day after the alleged assault on the Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash.

Metropolitan Magistrate Abhilash Malhotra directed the SHO concerned to file a report by August 18 after the police sought time in this regard.

The directions were passed on an application moved by advocates B S Joon and Mohd Irshad, who submitted that they were not satisfied with a status report filed by the police, "as a clean chit was given to the CS without making any enquiry and without his joining the investigation".

In the status report filed before the court, the police stated that various CCTV footage of the Delhi Secretariat is examined and so far no evidence has come forward against Prakash for provoking the staff.

The police informed the court that they were still in the process of identification of some of the offenders who are seen in the CCTV footage and need more time to conclude the investigation.

The court was hearing a complaint filed by Hussain seeking summoning of Prakash and other government officials, who were allegedly involved in the incident, as accused.

After the incident related to alleged assault on the chief secretary at Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's residence, Hussain had filed the complaint with the Delhi police.

Hussain had claimed that on February 20, a day after the alleged assault on the chief secretary, he was mobbed by the officials and staff of Delhi government who raised slogans and prevented him from taking the elevator to his 6th floor office at Secretariat.

He claimed that he was restrained from going to his office and his mobile phone was snatched during the incident.

Prakash was allegedly assaulted during a meeting at Kejriwal's official residence on February 19. Two Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs -- Amantullah Khan and Prakash Jarwal -- were arrested and later granted bail in the case.

Police have already questioned Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia and 11 AAP MLAs who were present at the chief minister's residence for the meeting.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The National Green Tribunal has directed the Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture to submit a status report within six weeks on providing infrastructural assistance to farmers to stop them from burning crop residue to prevent air pollution.

A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel asked the official to take feedback from the authorities concerned on steps taken to enforce the directions of the tribunal including providing machinery to poor and marginal farmers.

The green panel said that the crop residue burning causes air pollution and industries should help the farmers by way of corporate social responsibility.

"As per estimate of the Niti Ayog, the farmers are required to be educated at a cost of Rs 700 crore. The report dated June 5, 2017 mentioned equipments available for the purpose. However, the poor farmers are unable to afford the cost of machines. Moreover, in situ degradation of paddy straw may help the soil. The central government has set aside a sum of Rs 685 crore for helping the farmers. Still, stubble burning continues.

"The above averments show that there are already directions of this Tribunal on the subject on which reliance has been placed. Need is for enforcement of the directions already issued. Accordingly, we direct the Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture to have a feedback from the authorities concerned as to enforcement of directions of the tribunal within six weeks and furnish a status report," the bench said.

The tribunal said that it would consider the status report on September 18.

The tribunal was hearing a plea filed by one Ganga Lalwani seeking direction to provide machinery to poor and marginal farmers to avoid crop residue burning.

The plea said also contended that the corporate bodies should provide funds as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility to help the poor farmers.

The Punjab government had earlier faced the wrath of the tribunal for not taking effective steps to provide financial assistance and infrastructure facility to farmers to encourage them not to burn agricultural residue in their fields.

The green panel had said that three years had elapsed since its verdict in the Vikrant Tongad case, in which it had passed a slew of directions to stop crop burning, but the state government had shown a lethargic approach.

It had said the Punjab government had also failed to tie up with any company, private or public, which could utilise the crop residue.

The tribunal had directed the Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh governments to convene a meeting to work out a clear mechanism on transportation and use of stubble as fuel in power plants.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An officer of the CRPF's elite CoBRA unit was injured today when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) laid by naxals exploded in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district, police said.

The incident took place near Timilguda village, around 500 km from here, when a team of the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) was out on an area domination operation, Sukma Superintendent of Police Abhishek Meena told PTI.

When the patrolling team was on way back to its camp, Assistant Commandant K Ijung inadvertently stepped on the pressure IED connection, triggering the blast, he said.

The assistant commandant, belonging to CoBRA's 201st battalion, received splinter injuries in his abdomen, he said.

Reinforcement was rushed to the spot and the injured officer was shifted to a field hospital of the paramilitary force in Chintalnar, Meena said.

Efforts were on to airlift the injured officer to Raipur, but the bad weather and continuous rainfall in the area were hampering the evacuation operation, another police official said.

The CoBRA is a specialised unit of the Central Reserve Police Force and is proficient in guerrilla tactics and jungle warfare. It is ranked among one most experienced and successful law enforcement units in the country.

Yesterday, 15 Maoists were gunned down in an encounter with security forces in a dense forest in Sukma, police earlier said.

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A parliamentary panel has observed a disparity in district postings in the Delhi Police and said DANIPS officers should also be considered for posts of district DCPs as their have a "richer experience" than IPS recruits.

The committee was also informed that the annual confidential reports (ACRs) of inspectors were written by DCP-rank officers with little or no involvement of assistant commissioners of police (ACPs) or additional DCPs at the district level.

On the other hand, the ACRs of ACPs were written by additional DCP-I or additional DCP-II rank officers.

"The committee finds it an anomalous situation, wherein the ACRs of lower ranked officers such as inspectors are being written by DCPs and that of higher ranked officers like ACPs are being written by additional DCPs," the report said.

The panel said it felt "astonished" to "observe this unique system" currently existing in the Delhi Police.

It opined that such a system creates "lacuna thereby weakening the direct control and supervision of ACPs over inspectors".

The committee recommended that ACP-rank officers should be empowered to write ACRs of inspectors and deputy commissioner of police (DCP)-rank officers act as a reviewing authority.

It also expressed concern that there is disparity in district and unit postings in Delhi of Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands Police Services (DANIPS) officers promoted as IPS vis-a-vis Indian Police Service (IPS) recruits because DANIPS officers as DCP are considered less for postings in districts.

The parliamentary panel expressed surprise that in district postings as DCP, IPS officers are dominating in all 14 districts - 13 IPS officers are posted as DCP as compared to only one DANIPS promotee IPS as DCP.

Similarly at the additional DCP level, 10 IPS officers are posted as additional DCP-I whereas only four DANIPS promoted as IPS officers are posted as additional DCP-I.

The committee also noted that at the additional DCP-II level, seven IPS have been posted and seven DANIPS promoted IPS officers are posted as additional DCP-II.

It opined that even though direct IPS recruits are higher in seniority, "the pool of experience of DANIPS officers is much richer" because most of DANIPS officers work as ACP or additional DCP for a longer duration as compared to IPS officers at district or unit levels in Delhi.

The Delhi police commissioner submitted that the solution to this will be discussed with the Home Ministry and wherever some changes are required in the law, a suggestion will be sent to the ministry.

The committee recommended that the ministry should work in tandem with the Delhi Police and look in to the viability of prescribing a fixed ratio for district postings at additional DCP and DCP level of DANIPS officers promoted as IPS officers so as maintain a balance for ensuring that a large pool of experience available with DANIPS officers can be utilised for better law and order management.

It also directed that there should be uniformity in the induction of DANIPS officers into IPS in accordance with their seniority.

The committee also observed that the appointment year of DANIPS officers is calculated from the year in which they join the service for training, which usually starts late, after a gap of one year, and affects their seniority adversely.

However, in the case of IPS officers, they join service within the year in which the results are declared.

The committee recommended that in the case of DANIPS officers also, the result year should be taken as the year of counting for seniority, irrespective of the date of joining for training.

It expressed disappointment at the delay being caused in upgrading the current training facilities being provided to personnel and recommended that the ministry to take necessary steps to expedite the matter.

However, it appreciated the efforts being made by the Delhi Police to provide latest infrastructural facilities and training techniques to its trainees.

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The Gujarat government today said the water situation in the state was "worrisome" as 44 tehsils in the state have received very little rain this monsoon so far.

A monsoon review meeting was held at Chief Minister Vijay Rupani's official residence in Gandhinagar today.

Due to scanty rains in neighbouring Madhya Pradesh, Sardar Sarovar Dam on the river Narmada, Gujarat's lifeline, has only two per cent water stock against its capacity of 5,760 million cubic meters (mcm), a government release said.

It also announced relief measures such as additional two hours' electricity supply for farms to save the crops, supply of fodder at Rs 2 per kg in dry areas and immediate filling of a dam in Kutch to continue supply of drinking water.

Several ministers and senior bureaucrats attended the meeting.

Speaking to reporters later, Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel conceded that the situation was "indeed worrisome" as most of the dams, including Sardar Sarovar Dam, have not received enough water inflow despite the monsoon being halfway through.

During the meeting, Rupani ordered immediately release of 500 million cubic feet (mcft) of water from Sardar Sarovar dam to fill up Tappar Dam in Kutch district.

Patel told reporters that Gujarat was witnessing such a situation after a very long time.

"Though rain lashed South Gujarat and parts of Saurashtra in the initial spell, it has stopped since then. 44 tehsils have received less than 5 inches (125 mm) of rain till now. Kutch region, North and Central Gujarat have received negligible rainfall," he said.

"This is a worrisome situation which has come about after many years. During today's meet, it was decided that farmers, who are getting eight hours of electricity, will now get it for 10 hours. The CM will hold such review meetings regularly in coming days," said Patel.

"Due to scanty rainfall in the 1,200 km long catchment area of Narmada, water inflow is very little. Against the storage capacity of 5,760 million cubic meters(mcm), Sardar Sarovar dam has only 102 mcm water, just two per cent of its holding capacity," said Patel.

The situation was equally grim in the case of other major dams including Ukai in South Gujarat and Dharoi and Kadana in North and Central Gujarat, he said.

Patel, however, expressed hope that the situation will improve.

"We will give priority to people's needs and reserve water for drinking purposes for now. However, we are confident that people will not face any difficulty as the monsoon is not over yet," the deputy chief minister said.

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The Delhi government approved a proposal today to establish fifteen academies of different languages, including international languages, in the national capital.

The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said people from various states who spoke different languages were living in Delhi.

"The Delhi Cabinet has decided to establish 15 academies of different languages," Sisodia told the legislators in the Delhi Assembly.

According to the government, academies of Marathi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Bengali, international languages, Pali and Prakriti, Kumaoni-Garhwali and Jaunsari, Marwadi, Kashmiri, Assamese, Haryanvi, Oriya, Kannada, Malayalam and Telugu would be established in Delhi.

Besides, the Cabinet has also approved a proposal of the Social Welfare Department according to which people with disability who get pension would not be categorised under old age pension category after attaining the age of 60.

"Happy to announce that Cabinet took an important and significant decision regarding the disability pension today.

"Now they will not be categorised under old age pension scheme, rather they will get enhanced amount of Rs 2,500 under the Disability Pension Scheme even after attaining the age of 60," Social Welfare Minister Rajendra Pal Gautam tweeted.

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The Delhi government approved today a proposal to increase the MLA Local Area Development (LAD) fund from Rs 4 crore to 10 crore annually.

The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Informing the Delhi Assembly about the Cabinet's decision, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said that it was a demand of every legislator to increase the MLALAD fund.

"The Cabinet has decided to increase the MLA LAD fund from the existing Rs 4 crore to Rs 10 crore in a year," Sisodia told the Assembly on the second day of the Monsoon Session.

In Delhi, an MLA currently gets Rs 4 crore in a year to execute various works in his or her constituency.

Delhi Urban Development Minister Satyendar Jain said that the Cabinet's decision will be implemented this year.

Sisodia said that the Cabinet has also approved another proposal to set up a foreign language academy in the national capital, apart from several Indian language academies like Telugu, Kashmiri, Malayalam, Gujarati, among others.

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The foreign contribution to NGOs has seen a dip from Rs 17,798 crore in 2015-16 to Rs 15,329 crore in 2016-17, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju told the Lok Sabha today.

The number of NGOs registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) has also come down from 24,197 in 2015-16 to 23,176 in 2016-17, he said in a written reply.

As on August 1, 2018, the total number of FCRA registered NGOs stood at 2,521, he said, adding that these NGO's had received Rs 588 crore in the first four months of this fiscal year.

The Union minister of state for home affairs said the aforementioned data is based on the annual returns filed by the associations or NGOs as on August 1, 2018. The last date for filing the annual returns for 2017-18 is December 31, 2018.

Most of the NGOs are likely to file their annual returns a few weeks before the deadline, he said.

The central government has cancelled licences of about 20,000 of the over 33,000 NGOs in the last four years in the country for breach of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act.

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The dissident legislators of the Aam Aadmi Party's Punjab unit today announced its eight-member ad-hoc Political Affairs Committee (PAC) for the state.

The committee comprises of Sukhpal Singh Khaira, former Leader of Opposition (MLA, Bholath), Kanwar Sandhu (MLA, Kharar), Nazar Singh Mansahia (MLA, Mansa), Jagdev Singh Kamalu (MLA, Maur), Master Baldev Singh (MLA, Jaiton), Pirmal Singh Khalsa (MLA, Bhadaur), Jagtar Singh Jagga Hissowal (MLA, Raikot) and Jai Krishan Rodi (MLA, Garhshankar).

Mansahia will be the member secretary of the ad-hoc committee, which will also have a total of eight special invitees, Sandhu said.

The eight include Gurpartap Singh Khushalpur (Gurdaspur), Daljit Singh Sadarpura (Dharamkot), N S Chahal, (Moga), Deepak Bansal (Bathinda), Paramjit Singh Sachdeva (Hoshiarpur), Pargat Singh Chaugawan (Amritsar rural), Suresh Sharma (Amritsar urban) and Karamjit Kaur (Mansa).

All the members and special invitees of the PAC will also be members of the proposed ad-hoc state executive committee, Sandhu said.

The PAC will monitor and supervise the reconstitution of the entire political structure of the state including the appointment of the state president/convenor, he added.

It will also set up the party structure at the district, Vidhan Sabha constituency and block levels and supervise the district level party volunteer meetings to infuse new spirit in the party and strengthen the state unit, he said.

Once the state political structure is in place, the ad-hoc PAC and ad-hoc state executive will stand dissolved, he said, adding that a new state executive and state PAC would then be constituted.

This is the first step towards the reconstitution of the AAP in Punjab after the party volunteers convention at Bathinda, he said.

Six resolutions were passed at the convention, including declaration of autonomy for the Punjab unit.

It had also scrapped the existing structure of the party in the state and announced that the process of forming a new structure would start soon.

The whole process will be in line with the concept of Swaraj as envisaged by AAP's national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, Sandhu said.

On August 2, in an act of rebellion at Bathinda , a group of AAP legislators led by Khaira had declared the party's Punjab unit "autonomous" and "dissolved" its current organisational structure.

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Hours after the government announced its inability to allot a space on the Marina beach for burial of DMK leader Karunanidhi, the party moved the Madras High Court challenging its decision.

Senior counsel for DMK P Wilson and Saravanan went to acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court Huluvadi G Ramesh's residence and sought permission to move an urgent motion.

The acting chief justice directed them to serve notice on the advocate general, saying he would hear the case at 10.30 pm at his residence.

Earlier, DMK working president M K Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina.

A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications."



Hence, the government is prepared to allot a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

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Seven foreigners, including four women, have been arrested by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) officials for allegedly trying to smuggle out foreign currency worth over Rs 6 crore at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport here.

They were intercepted when they were proceeding to board a flight to Hong Kong and their baggage was searched yesterday.

Later, the recovery of foreign currency was made from their checked-in baggage.

The forex was tightly wrapped in towels inside the luggage in a manner to escape detection by security and intelligence agencies at the airport, according to a statement issued by the DRI today.

"All the currencies were in the denomination of USD 100. A total of around USD 8.9 lakh, having market value of Rs 6.14 crore, was seized," it said.

Investigations reveal that the foreigners were part of an international syndicate involved in smuggling of foreign currencies. It had members in India and Hong Kong.

"The mastermind of the syndicate is sitting in the Hong Kong, who arranged carriers and sent them to India with gold bars through concealment. In India, a person used to collect the gold and give foreign currency in return which used to be smuggled out of India back to Hong Kong," the DRI said.

It was further revealed in the investigations that the syndicate never repeated the carriers to avoid attention of the customs authorities in India, it said.

A father and his daughter were among the seven foreigners arrested by the DRI, officials said, adding that they all are natives of Taiwan.

Later, an Indian accomplice of this smuggling syndicate was also arrested by the DRI. "In all eight people, including seven foreigners, have been arrested in the case," the officials said.

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Over 31 kgs of gold worth more than Rs nine crore has been seized by officials of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in separate cases in West Bengal and Mizoram, according to an official statement.

Acting on intelligence, the DRI officers intercepted a passenger accompanying his minor son from Siliguri to Kolkata in a bus who admitted to carrying foreign origin gold concealed in handles of his two trolley bags, it said.

A total of 36 pieces of gold in biscuit form, weighing 5.99 kgs, were seized from the passenger, the statement issued by the DRI said.

"As a strategy to fool the law enforcement authorities, the smugglers had cleverly used the technique of involving a minor in carrying this gold all the way from Indo-Burma border," it said.

The officers further identified a woman and a man who were travelling together in the same bus. They were also found carrying gold in biscuit and sheet forms, very cleverly concealed in two old and used laptops, the DRI said.

A total of 5.32 kgs gold was seized from these passengers travelling together, it said.

The officers thereafter continued with their enforcement action and checked another bus coming from Siliguri and after a thorough combing, intercepted another person carrying 72 pieces of smuggled gold in biscuit form, weighing a total of 11.97 kgs.

"Thus, a total of 23.28 kg foreign-origin, smuggled gold was recovered from the intercepted persons, which were smuggled in through Champhai at Indo-Myanmar border of Mizoram. A total of four persons have thus been arrested in this scam. The fifth person, a juvenile found travelling with one of the accused, has been handed over to Mizoram House in Kolkata," it said.

Acting on specific intelligence, the DRI officers intercepted a person in Aizawl and recovered 49 pieces of gold, weighing 8.14 kgs, valued at Rs 2.58 crore at the bottom of his airbag and rucksack and was arrested.

The seized gold was smuggled in through Champhai at Indo-Mynmar border of Mizoram.

In the last financial year (2017-2018), the DRI seized close to 430 kgs of gold and gold jewellery in the east and northeast region, collectively valued at more than Rs 110 crore.

In the current financial year so far, in the region spread over West Bengal and the north-eastern states, the DRI has already seized over 193 kgs of gold and gold jewellery valued at close to Rs 58 crore, smuggled from Bangladesh, Myanmar, Bhutan and even China.

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Surrogate advertising is a matter of concern and the Health Ministry has suggested to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to come up with some measures to address the issue, a top official said.

Joint Secretary in the health ministry Vikas Sheel said this in response to a question at the five-day India Tobacco Control Program hosted by the Johns Hopkins University that got underway yesterday at South Goa's Majorda, about 30 km from here.

Surrogate advertising is used to promote products like alcohol and cigarettes, for which advertisements are prohibited, in the guise of other products.

There are several ostensibly innocuous products which are advertised in print or screen, where the targeted audience are tobacco-users. These are 'proxy' or 'surrogate ads. It is a matter of concern for us (health ministry) and we are working on it, Sheel said.

During a panel discussion yesterday on 'Incorporating Tobacco Control in Non-Communicable Diseases Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS), he also cited examples of a pan masala advertisement, in which a celebrity actor promotes the product, and a CD brand commercial that is a proxy 'promotion' for a liquor brand.

Asked if the health ministry has approached the ministry of information and broadcasting on the issue, he said, yes.

We have been looking for opportunities to raise the issue with them (ministry of I&B). And, we have been suggesting them to come up with some measures to address it, he said.

Chief Medical Officer in the Health Ministry, L Swasticharan, during another session Challenges and Opportunities for Advancing Tobacco Control in India flagged the concerns over 'surrogate advertising' wherein companies are getting away with it, just because the product does not have tobacco as an ingredient, but subliminally, it is affecting the audience towards tobacco products.

And celebrities, by lending their face, have made the issue even more difficult to address. So, a famous actress endorses a pan masala ad with a catch jingle and then another product having a similar name, with tobacco inside, is parallely marketed. Since, tobacco products cannot be advertised in India, these ads become surrogate ads, he said.

As per the second Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS 2) of India released last year, 28.6 per cent use tobacco in one form or the other.

GATS is a global standard for systematically monitoring adult tobacco use and tracking key tobacco control indicators. India is the second largest consumer and third largest producer, of tobacco.

GATS 2 results found a 6 per cent decline in tobacco use prevalence, from (34.6 per cent in) GATS 1 to 28.6 per cent in GATS 2. The decline in prevalence was equivalent to a 17 per cent relative decrease, said Praveen Sinha, National Consultant, WHO Country Office for India at a session today on 'Implementation of the National Tobacco Control Program.

Seema Gupta, Director, Voluntary Health Association of India (VHAI), an NGO, said, We approach celebrities to convince them to not advertise products which amount to surrogate ads.

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Eight people were arrested by the Thane Police in Maharashtra for their alleged involvement in several cases of house-breaking theft at various places in the state, an official said.

Acting on a tip-off, the police nabbed an offender from the Mumbra township here a couple of days back.

Based on the information provided by him, seven others were arrested in the last two days from Mumbra, Kalyan and Ulhasnagar areas in Thane, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) Deepak Deoraj told reporters here last evening.

The eight accused, in the age group of 19 to 38 years, were allegedly involved in house-breaking thefts in Thane and also at some places in the neighbouring Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Palghar and Pune, the police said.

Items worth Rs 7.85 lakh, including gold and silver jewellery, two laptops and two motorcycles, were recovered from them, Deoraj said.

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Former Deputy Speaker of Goa Legislative Assembly and eminent writer Vishnu Surya Wagh was today admitted to a private hospital here after his health condition deteriorated this morning, a BJP leader said.

Wagh, 52, has not been keeping well since August 2016 when he suffered a heart attack.

"Former Deputy Speaker Vishnu Wagh has been admitted to a private hospital after his health condition deteriorated this morning. But he is stable right now," BJP leader and former Panaji MLA Siddharth Kunkolienkar told reporters.

Wagh, a former BJP legislator, did not contest the 2017 state Assembly polls due to his ill health.

Kunkolienkar said Wagh has infection which is being treated by the doctors.

"We wish him a speedy recovery," he added.

After 14 years of being a former general secretary and spokesperson of the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC), Wagh had joined the BJP in October 2011 and won the assembly elections in 2012.

Ever since he suffered a massive heart attack at a public function in Panaji in August 2016, Wagh has been bed-ridden. He had undergone an angioplasty at the Goa Medical College and Hospital here and was later shifted to leading hospitals in Mumbai. He returned to Goa after his discharge in April 2017.

Wagh is also known for his writings in Marathi and Konkani. He was former vice chairman of Kala Academy, Goa and won several awards, including Goa Ratna.

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Exide Industries Ltd today hailed the West Bengal government for ease of doing business and said it was one of the key reasons behind the company's additional investment of Rs 550 crore for expansion in the state.

"Bengal showed the way through the five-year wage agreement, which we have been able to implement in all our plants from the earlier three-year wage agreement," Exide MD and CEO Gautam Chatterjee said at the foundation stone laying ceremony for two projects here.

After Haldia Development Authority Chairman Suvendu Adhikary's intervention, the reluctant trade unions agreed to switch to the five-year wage agreement, he said.

Chatterjee said due to the state government's proactive role, the company promptly got the required land for expansion.

Exide Industries today set in motion efforts to turn its Haldia unit into one of the biggest battery-making centers in South-East Asia, churning out everything from recycled lead to finished products.

Meanwhile, Adhikary, who is also the state's Transport and Environment Minister, said the government has a land bank for companies who want to expand.

"After we came to power, we have been able to revoke the Central Pollution Board embargo in Haldia in 2013. Now, several companies are expanding here like Indian Oil, the Hiranandani Group LNG terminal and Mitsubishi Chemicals," he said.

Meanwhile, Adhikary said the state government will be rolling out electric buses in phases, as part of its sustainability measures.

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Export Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) targets to disburse USD 25 billion loans in the current financial year, its managing director David Rashquinha said today.

"We aim lending USD 25 billion lines of credit for Exim Bank in the current financial year," Rashquinha told PTI here on the sidelines of an outreach programme for solar projects.

He said the bank is looking to maintain its growth rate at around 10-15 per cent in the current and the following fiscal year.

Speaking at the 'Business Outreach Programme For Solar Projects under India's Lines of Credit' organised by the Exim Bank, Ministry of External Affairs and the International Solar Alliance, he said the solar energy sector is growing at a rapid scale and technology can help devise better storage methods.

"As we have the economy of scale setting in, there is an increasing emphasis on storage so that energy can be stored and used later on when the generation is not possible," Rashqinha said.

He said the solar technology has grown rapidly over the last ten years from just a share of less than a per cent of global solar energy installed capacity of 0.8 per cent to over 14 per cent achieved in 2017.

"This exponential growth points to the potential of the solar sector. We are in a situation where the goal is very much is in sight and the finance is available. It is only will and push. As the special purpose vehicle of the government, Exim Bank looks forward to PPP and other facilities in solar sector," he added.

The programme saw participation from a number of destinations, including African countries who have interests in solar projects.

In 2017-18, Exim Bank approved loans aggregating Rs 978.26 billion, while disbursements were Rs 685.35 billion.

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Amid concerns over rumours and false information circulated on popular platforms, the government today said it expects large social media firms like WhatsApp as also others to behave responsibly and take steps to ensure that users have full confidence in them.

WhatsApp has been under fire over rampant abuse of its platform for circulation of fake news, which has incited mob fury leading to lynching incidents in various parts of the country.

Such is the level of alarm among policymakers that the telecom department has sought views of the industry on technical measures that can be adopted for blocking mobile apps like instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp and Telegram in situations where national security and public order are under threat.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a Trai conference here, IT Secretary Ajay P Sawhney said: "We expect all platforms to behave in a responsible manner especially those platforms with large user base."



He was responding to a specific query on outstanding issues with WhatsApp over the spread of rumours and hoaxes on its platform.

He said users need to have confidence in the platform they are on.

"We believe all major platforms have large presence here. And they will take whatever steps necessary to ensure that users have complete confidence in their platform," he said.

Sawhney, however, said that there was no particular reference from the IT Ministry over blocking any platform, as such.

Whenever an issue crops up, the ministry examines it in accordance with IT Act.

"The IT Act provides all kinds of obligations on the platforms and intermediaries," he said.

Asked if the ministry has lined up a meeting with companies on the issue of curbing false information on the social media platforms, Sawhney said that it dealt with an issue as and when it came up.

The ministry has in the past too written to service providers, he pointed out.

WhatsApp, has been in the eye of storm over mob-lynching incidents being incited by false information and rumours circulating on its platform. Last month, the government expressed dissatisfaction over measures listed by WhatsApp for checking fake news, saying the platform cannot escape its responsibility for such rampant abuse and needed to find originators of provocative messages.

Government has also warned the Facebook-owned messaging service that in the absence of adequate checks, it will be treated as 'abettor' of rumour propagation and legal consequences shall follow.

Responding to this, WhatsApp informed the government of its efforts to build a local team on ground, including India head, but still did not meet a key demand of IT Ministry, that of identifying the message originators.

Sawhney said that the IT ministry is "looking into" WhatsApp's response.

"We have received their response. They have taken steps to limit forwarding and are are trying to ramp up platform. We have also requested various platforms to make sure that flagging of concerns is possible within the platform. These are global platforms. We expect, over a period of time, they will ramp up facilities so if anything is disturbing, then user should be able to flag the concern," the IT secretary said.

The Department of Telecom (DoT) last month wrote to all telecom operators, the Internet Service Providers Association of India (ISPAI), industry body Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) and others seeking their inputs to block the applications under the Information Technology (IT) Act during specific circumstances.

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Five members of a family were shot dead by six men over a property dispute in a village near Pakistan's Lahore city, triggering widespread protest.

The five victims, all cousins aged between 40 and 50, were working in their fields in Phularwan village bordering India when six assailants opened fire on them, killing all of them on the spot, police said.

The victims and killers belonged to the same village and had an old enmity over a piece of land.

After the incident, the victims' family members held demonstartion outside the Punjab Province Governor's House.

They also placed the bodies outside the Lahore Zaman Park residence of Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan, demanding the arrest of the killers.

On the assurance of top police officers they ended their protest. However, a few hours later they surrounded the residences of the suspects and burnt at least four houses.

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The future of the Force India Formula One team was secured today after its administrator accepted a bid backed by a consortium of investors, effectively ending Vijay Mallya's 10-year-old reign at the midfield squad.

The team was put into administration ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix last month following the legal action taken by its Mexican driver Sergio Perez.

According to a statement issued on behalf of administrator Geoff Rowley, all 405 jobs at Force India will be saved following a deal with the team management, joint administrators and consortium of investors led by Canadian billionaire Lawrence Stroll, who happens to be the father of Williams driver Lance Stroll.

Commenting on the deal, Force India Chief Operations Officer Otmar Szafnauer said: This outcome secures the future of the Force India team in Formula 1 and will allow our team of racers to compete to our full potential.

I am delighted that we have the support of a consortium of investors who believe in us as a team and who see the considerable business potential that Force India has within F1 now and in the future.

He also acknowledged Mallya's contribution in the success of the team.

At Force India, our expertise and commitment has meant that we have always punched above our weight and this new investment ensures that we have a bright future ahead of us. I also would like to thank Vijay, the Sahara Group and the Mol family for all of their support and taking the team as far as their circumstances would allow, added Szafnauer.

Mallya and Sahara had a 42.5 percent stake each in Force India while Mol Family owned 15 percent.

India is currently seeking Mallya's extradition from the UK over unpaid loans linked to his defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

Since their first season in 2008, Force India have gone on to become a strong midfield team, finishing fourth in the past two seasons.

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Foreign tourists can visit 29 inhabited islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which were prohibited for visitors, without any restrictions, the Home Ministry said today.

Foreigners will also be allowed to visit 11 uninhabited islands, to be notified by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration, only for day visits.

The decision has been taken in the interest of promoting tourism and overall development of the Union Territory, a Home Ministry official said.

The 29 inhabited islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been excluded from the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) regime notified under the Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963, till December 31, 2022, subject to certain conditions, the official said.

The islands are: East Island, North Andaman, Smith Island, Curfew Island, Stewart Island, Land Fall Island, Ayes Island, Middle Andaman, Long Island, Strait Island, North Passage, Baratang, South Andaman, Havelock, Neil Island, Flat Bay, North Sentinel Island, Little Andaman, Chowra, Tillang Chong Island, Teressa, Katchal, Nancowry, Kamorta, Pulomilo, Great Nicobar, Little Nicobar, Narcondam Island and Interview island.

A communication to this effect has been sent to the chief secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration.

However, citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals having their origin in these countries would continue to require RAP to visit the Union Territory.

In such cases, the RAP may be granted only after obtaining prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

For visiting Mayabunder and Diglipur, citizens of Myanmar will continue to require RAP, which shall be issued only with the prior approval of the ministry.

In order to ensure preservation of natural and marine resources, including marine parks and environment, of the Union Territory without affecting tourism and business at large, it should be ensured by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration that the guidelines issued by the and Forests Ministry are strictly adhered to, the Home Ministry said in its communication.

Separate approvals of the competent authority would continue to be required for visiting reserved forests, wildlife sanctuaries and tribal reserves as is the case at present, the official said.

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A former Akali Sarpanch of village Khiala under Lopokey police station area was killed by unidentified persons here today, officials said.

Sarbjit Singh was killed with sharp edged weapons, the police officials added.

His body was found by family members in a field, they said.

Family members claimed he was killed because of political rivalry. However, police said they were investigating the matter.

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The West Bengal CID today arrested M A V Raju, husband of former IPS officer Bharati Ghosh after the Calcutta High Court rejected his anticipatory prayer, a senior officer of the agency said.

Raju was been taken into custody and arrested after being taken to the CID headquarter here.

Earlier, in the day Calcutta High Court rejected Raju's anticipatory bail prayer in connection with its probe into a case of alleged extortion and illegal exchange of banned notes for gold.

"We need him for questioning. He has information about the case," the CID officer said.

At the high court Advocate General Kishore Dutta appearing for the state opposed the anticipatory bail prayer and submitted that huge amounts of money had been seized from his flat.

Dutta submitted before a division bench of Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay that other persons had also given statements that Raju had allegedly kept money in their flats.

The AG, assisted by public prosecutor Saswata Gopal Mukherjee, submitted that custodial interrogation of Raju is necessary to unravel missing links and to bring out the larger conspiracy in defrauding the public.

Raju's counsel submitted that he has been cooperating with the state CID, which is investigating the case, as earlier directed by the court and as such there was no requirement for his custody in the investigation.

Raju had been given interim respite by another division bench in February when he moved the court with his prayer. The court had then restrained CID from arresting him till disposal of his anticipatory bail plea and had directed him to cooperate with the investigators.

Raju's counsel had earlier submitted that he was being harassed as he was the husband of Bharati Ghosh.

Ghosh, who was the West Midnapore superintendent of police for more than six years, was transferred as commandant of the third battalion of the state armed police on December 26 last year. She resigned from service two days later.

She was once considered close to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and was also awarded a service medal on August 15, 2014.

Ghosh was transferred twice, once by the Election Commission before the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and the second time by the state itself before the 2016 Assembly elections.

She was, however, reinstated as West Midnapore SP as soon as the elections got over on both occasions.

The CID, probing cases relating to alleged extortion and misconduct against Ghosh, had also conducted raids at various properties, including a house in Kolkata that belongs to her husband Raju.

Denying the harassment allegations levelled by Raju's counsel, the AG had told the court that investigations were being held into alleged extortion and cheating of a businessman by some lower level police officials in West Midnapore.

He claimed that a large amount of money has been recovered from the residence of Raju and his wife apart from deeds of land holdings.

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Rick Gates, the key witness in the trial of Donald Trump's former campaign chief Paul Manafort, described in detail today how he helped his ex-boss evade US taxes on millons of dollars for political consulting work done in Ukraine.

Gates, 46, Manafort's long-time business party, pleaded guilty to conspiracy in February and is cooperating with the government in exchange for a more lenient prison sentence.

He was testifying for the second day before a packed courtroom at Manafort's trial on tax and bank fraud charges in Alexandria, Virginia.

Manafort, 69, is the first defendant to go to court to fight charges stemming from Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

But the veteran Republican operative is not on trial for anything he did while serving for three months as the chairman of Trump's presidential campaign.

Instead, Manafort is answering to alleged crimes related to money he made providing political consulting services to the former Russian-backed government of Ukraine.

Trump's name has not come up in the court proceedings although Gates did say Tuesday that Manafort had gone to work for a "presidential campaign" in 2016 and that he had joined him.

Trump's name was not specifically mentioned.

At the prodding of prosecutor Greg Andres, Gates walked the six-man, six-woman jury through the foreign bank accounts used by Manafort to conceal payments made by Ukrainian politicians.

Gates explained how the Ukranians deposited millions of dollars and Euros into more than a dozen accounts in Cyprus which were not reported to the Internal Revenue Service.

"He always had control over the accounts," Gates said, referring to Manafort.

At Manafort's direction, the income was not reported to his bookeepers or accountants, he added.

Gates also told the court that Manafort would frequently pay for clothing, landscaping and other personal expenses using wire transfers directly from the accounts in Cyprus and others in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Gates also acknowledged making "unauthorized payments" to himself from the Grenadines accounts.

On Monday, he said the payments -- which he billed as personal expenses -- amounted to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Gates also said that when their work in Ukraine dried up in 2015 Manafort had difficulty paying his bills and had no other clients at that time.

He also said Manafort had asked him to disguise income as loans. "The idea of exchanging income for loans reduced his overall tax liability," he said.

Like he did on Monday, Gates addressed his attention to prosecutors and the judge and studiously avoided the gaze of his longtime business partner Manafort at the defense table. Gates is expected to be cross-examined by defense attorneys later Tuesday who will attempt to chip away at his credibility.

Manafort, who helped Republicans Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan reach the White House, was Trump's campaign chairman from May to August 2016, when he was forced to step down amid questions about his lobbying work for Ukraine's former pro-Russian leader Viktor Yanukovych.

Gates worked for Manafort from 2006 to 2016 and was the deputy chairman of Trump's presidential election campaign team under Manafort. Mueller, a former FBI director, has indicted more than 30 people -- including 26 Russians -- in connection with his probe into whether members of Trump's campaign colluded with Russia to help get the real estate tycoon elected.

Trump has denounced the probe as a politically motivated "witch hunt" and denied there was any collusion with Moscow to defeat Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton.

While Gates and others have pleaded guilty, Manafort has refused to strike a deal.

Legal experts say Manafort may be holding out hopes of a pardon from Trump.

Manafort is scheduled to go on trial in September on separate charges brought by Mueller of conspiracy, money laundering and failing to register as an agent of a foreign government.

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Ten men and four women kidnapped by suspected Ugandan rebels were found dead in the Democratic Republic of Congo's restive east, military sources said today.

"The 14 people who were abducted were found dead and buried" an army source told AFP.

Three civilian sources also confirmed the discovery and attributed the attack to Ugandan Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels.

The bodies were found in the Beni region of the troubled North Kivu province, which shares borders with Uganda and Rwanda and is currently the epicentre of the latest outbreak in DR Congo of the deadly Ebola virus.

All the bodies showed signs of having been attacked and were in a state of decomposition, said Omar Kavota, head of local NGO Center for Peace, Democracy and Human Rights Studies.

"We deplore the fact that despite warnings about ADF activism in the Beni region, there is still no major military operation to clear the area and dismantle their strongholds," Kavota told AFP.

The ADF is a militia created by Muslim rebels to oppose Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni.

They have been active in the east of DRC since 1995 and are accused of being responsible for a series of massacres of several hundred civilians since 2014 by the Congolese authorities and the UN mission in the DRC (MONUSCO).

However, in 2015 the New York University Study Group on Congo said it was not just the ADF behind the killings and that other armed elements, including members of the Congolese army, were responsible.

The ADF is accused of killing 15 Tanzanian peacekeepers in Beni in December 2017.

North Kivu, one of the most populated areas of the DRC, is home to a number of armed groups that kill or abduct civilians.

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"Wonder Woman" star Gal Gadot is in final talks to headline and executive produce a limited series about film actor and inventor Hedy Lamarr for Showtime.

The series is from "The Affair" co-creator/executive producer Sarah Treem, "The Handmaid's Tale" producer Warren Littlefield and Endeavor Content.

According to Deadline, Treem is in negotiation to write the limited series, which will chronicle the life and career of Lamarr.

Gadot will executive produce the limited series with her husband and producing partner Jaron Varsano.

Austrian-born Lamarr started her career in Czechoslovakia in the early 1930s before leaving her husband and moving to Paris. In London, she met Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studio head Louis B Mayer, who offered her a movie contract in Hollywood, where she starred in "Algiers" (1938), "Boom Town" (1940), "I Take This Woman" (1940), "Comrade X" (1940), "Come Live With Me" (1941) and "Samson and Delilah" (1949).

She was also an inventor and at the beginning of World War II, she and composer George Antheil developed a radio guidance system for Allied torpedoes, which used spread spectrum and frequency.

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The Gautam Buddh Nagar police has arrested ten persons, allegedly involved in stealing batteries from the vehicles parked along the Eastern Peripheral Highway near here.

The arrested accused also included three scrap dealers who used to buy the stolen batteries and sell them cheap, the police said today.

"As many as 22 batteries besides three firearms, knives, and over six kg of cannabis were also seized from them," Noida (Rural) Superintendent of Police Aashish Shrivastava told reporters here.

Three cars, including a premium sedan and two SUVs, were also impounded from them, he said.

The police made the arrests, while working on a complaint received on Sunday, he said.

Seven gang members were arrested late last night from a traffic intersection where GT Road hit the highway under Dadri police station area, said the SP, adding that they were arrested when planning to strike their target.

Explaining the gang's modus operandi, Shrivastava said the gang would target trucks parked along the Eastern Peripheral Highway at nights with their drivers fast asleep.

After stealing the batteries, they would sell them in the scrap market, the officials said, adding that once sold to the scrap dealers, these batteries would enter market chain at cheap rates.

Despite basically being thieves, these gangsters would even rob the truckers by overpowering them in case any of them raised an alarm, he said.

Those arrested were identified as gang kingpin Jai Kishan, Shamshuddin, Lokesh, Veer Pal, Kapil, Kunwar Kesh, Babloo, Nazeer and Islamuddin.

Most of them belonged to Khurja in Bulandshahr, while others were from Ghaziabad, the police said, adding that some of the gang members were absconding.

The ten arrested accused have been booked under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Arms Act and the Narcotics and Drugs Prevention Act, the police said.

Expressing concern over "inadequate security on the Eastern Peripheral Highway," Shrivastava, however, said the police were trying to step up vigil in the region.

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-- a leading Indian realty firm -- said on Tuesday that it has entered the segment and will invest Rs 10 billion to develop two projects over the next three years.

The projects, comprising about 7,000 flats, will be developed in Greater Noida and Ghaziabad, the company's Managing Director Manoj Gaur said.

The price range of these flats will be in the Rs 1.5-2.5 million range, he said.

The group is upbeat on the housing demand as it has been able to sell over 5,000 properties worth Rs 20 billion during the last four months, beating the slowdown in the market.

"We have finalised two land parcels to develop projects under policy of the government, which has been tweaked recently to make it viable," he told on the sidelines of realtors apex body CREDAI's conference held here.

The company has 25 acre on in Greater Noida and another 8 acre in Crossing Republic township at Ghaziabad where it would construct about 7,000 flats, including 2,000 apartments for EWS (economically weaker section).

The EWS flats would be handed over to the state government, which would allot it to eligible beneficiaries. The rate for these units would be less than Rs 4,50,000.



ALSO READ: Amila Group to invest Rs 7 bn over 8 years on Shimla housing project

Asked about investment, Gaur said the total project cost is estimated at about Rs 10 billion and the same would be funded through internal accruals and

"We want to build flats for those whose salary is in Rs 25,000-30000 bracket so that they are not forced to live in unauthorised colonies," said Gaur, who is also vice-president of CREDAI.

Gaur said the company is scouting for land in the to develop more such projects. "We want to launch 10,000 flats in this financial year under this state housing policy" he added.

The UP government is providing incentives to boost supply of affordable homes, he said.

Gaur said the margins in this segment are thin but there is opportunity to achieve high volumes.

These projects would be developed as per the norms set by the so that beneficiaries are eligible to get interest subsidy. segment has gained momentum after it got infrastructure status in the last year's budget



Overall, Gaur said, the company is developing 14,000 units, of which 5,000 homes will be delivered this fiscal.

has been developing residential and commercial projects for 23 years and has delivered over 40,000 units.

It is developing many projects in the NCR, including a 237-acre township project 'Gaur City' in Greater Noida West (Noida Extension) where the company has developed 25,000 apartments.

Another 250-acre township is being developed on It has also entered into education and hospitality businesses.
Pakistan's former army chief Gen Raheel Sharif did not obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Cabinet before leaving for Saudi Arabia to head a 41-nation military alliance, the attorney general informed the Supreme Court today.

The apex court had asked the government last week how it allowed Gen (retd) Sharif and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lt Gen (retd) Shuja Pasha to take up jobs abroad despite a law barring officers from accepting employment for two years post-retirement.

After the retirement in 2016, Gen (retd) Sharif left for Riyadh to head a military alliance of Muslim countries led by Saudi Arabia.

During the hearing of a suo motu case regarding dual nationality of civil servants and judges, Attorney General Khalid Jawed Khan said that as per the law, the NOC is issued by the federal government to government officers willing to join service in foreign lands, Dawn reported.

He said that it is required for the NOC to be approved by the Cabinet under government service rules.

Khan presented the legal perspective after defence secretary Lt Gen (retd) Zamirul Hassan informed the court that it was the defence ministry which had granted NOC to Gen (retd) Sharif after Army Headquarters (GHQ) cleared him to accept the post of commander of the military alliance.

Speaking about Pasha, the secretary told the court that the former ISI chief has informed in his reply that he is currently unemployed.

According to media reports, after retirement in 2012, the former ISI chief worked with a multinational firm based in the UAE. He now serves as group chief adviser to a Lahore-based firm owned by a Pakistani politician.

The court had asked the defence secretary to furnish the NOCs issued by the government to Sharif and Pasha for joining foreign jobs.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar ordered authorities that the matter of Sharif's appointment be placed before the federal cabinet for a regular approval (or disapproval).

"We have to proceed according to the law," he said during the hearing, observing that the authority of the federal government is controlled by the Cabinet. He said the matter at hand was of an urgent nature.

The hearing was adjourned till an unannounced date after the summer vacations as the attorney general and defence secretary sought time to refer the matter of NOC to the cabinet, the paper said.

Sharif's appointment as the leader of the Saudi-led military alliance sparked debate over how the move will impact Pakistan's foreign policy, and whether it was fully sanctioned by parliament.

His appointment had been criticised by some Pakistani politicians, retired army officers, journalists, intellectuals.

The Saudi-led coalition was envisaged to serve as a platform for security cooperation, including provision of training, equipment and troops, and involvement of religious scholars for dealing with extremism.

The Saudi government had surprised many countries by announcing that it had forged a coalition for coordinating and supporting military operations against terrorism in Iraq, Syria, Libya, Egypt and Afghanistan.

Iran, Saudi Arabia's arch-rival for influence in the Arab world, was absent from the states named as participants, as proxy conflicts between the two regional powers rage from Syria to Yemen. Syria was also missing from the list of member states.

Pakistan has good ties with both Iran and Saudi Arabia.

The then defence minister Khawaja Asif had defended the Gen (retd.) Sharif's appointment, saying it was an administrative decision and not linked to the conflict in Yemen.

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GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare today posted 51.58 per cent increase in its net profit to Rs 200.44 crore for the first quarter ended June 30.

The company had reported a net profit of Rs 132.23 crore for the same period previous fiscal.

Total income of the company stood at Rs 1,203.59 crore in the first quarter. It was Rs 1,101.57 crore during April-June period of 2017-18, GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare said in a regulatory filing.

"We witnessed a positive growth in the first quarter on the back of strong performance of Horlicks and Boost," GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare MD Navneet Saluja said.

All the channels, including rural, have performed well and the company's direct rural foothold now reaches over 22,000 villages, he added.

"With strong business fundamentals, high-science based products and committed team, we are well poised to deliver a healthy year," Saluja said.

Shares of the company today ended 0.30 per cent down at Rs 6,746.80 apiece on the BSE.

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A global human rights group has accused authorities in Bangladesh of using abusive measures in handling a student-led protest calling for safer roads.

New York-based Human Rights Watch said in a statement today that ruling party men armed with sticks and machetes have swooped in on protesters and journalists since the students took to the streets on July 29 after two students were killed in a road accident in Dhaka.

Several journalists, including an Associated Press photographer, have been attacked.

Human Rights Watch also criticized the arrest of a renowned photographer on charges of spreading false information about the protest.

The protests grew last week, becoming a major embarrassment to the government, which faces a general election later this year.

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Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar today sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention to address the current crisis in the state's mining sector, saying it has impacted 1.5 lakh people and hit iron ore exports worth up to Rs 25,000 crore.

During his first visit to the national capital after undergoing treatment for a pancreatic ailment in the US, Parrikar met Modi and also briefed a group of central ministers about the issues in the mining sector.

Last week, the Goa Assembly passed a resolution urging the Centre to suitably amend the Goa, Daman and Diu Mining Concessions (Abolition and Declaration as Mining Leases) Act, to allow mining leases in the state to be operational till 2037.

The resolution also wanted the Centre to amend the Mines and Minerals (Regulation and Development) Act in order to give mining leases in Goa a 50-year tenure of operation.

"I have requested him (Prime Minister) to consider Goa on priority... There is a very positive approach from the PM," the chief minister said after meeting Modi here.

Parrikar was accompanied by Union Minister and North Goa MP Shripad Naik, Rajya Sabha member Vinay Tendulkar and South Goa Member of Parliament Narendra Sawaikar.

After participating in a GoM on mining, Parrikar told reporters Goa is facing a total collapse in mining in the wake of a Supreme Court judgement and the GoM after "patiently hearing" the state of affairs has assured to work on some solution.

When asked whether he also gave some suggestions, he said, "My options were some legal amendments ... which would remove all these impediments because Goa is (in) very complex situation. It was concessions. From concessions we have shifted to lease."



The chief minister also tweeted, "Called on the Hon'ble PM Shri. @narendramodi ji in New Delhi and briefed him on the mining issue and other development works in the state of Goa."



Parrikar said Goa is one of the net exporters of iron ore that has come to a halt. "From about Rs 20,000-25,000 crore export (it) is today zero and it has affected anywhere up to 1.5 lakh people in the state," he said.

He said that iron ore mined in Goa cannot be used in India as it is low-grade ore and needs to be exported adding that countries like Australia and Brazil are now taking advantage of this situation and exporting to "our markets".

In order to re-establish the market, a concrete plan is a must, he said.

The state's mining sector has been shut since March 16 this year after the Supreme Court, through an order in February, cancelled 88 leases and banned the extraction of fresh ore.

The private member's resolution, moved by BJP MLA Nilesh Cabral, had stated that the Goa government would urge the Centre to suitably amend the Goa, Daman and Diu Mining Concessions (Abolition and Declaration as Mining Leases) Act, to make it effective from May 23, 1987 instead of December 20, 1961.

This would allow mining leases in the state to be operational till 2037.

The resolution also wants the Union government to amend the Mines and Minerals (Regulation and Development) Act in order to give mining leases in Goa a 50-year tenure of operation.

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A Panaji court today issued a summons to James McClung, former top executive of the US-headquartered firm Louis Berger, who had confessed to a court in that country to have paid bribes to ministers in Goa.

McClung had claimed to have paid bribes to former Goa chief minister Digambar Kamatand some others to win consultancy for a water augmentation and sewerage line system project, to be implemented through a funding from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Principal Sessions Judge, North Goa, Irshad Agha, today ordered McClung to appear on September 17 at 10 am to answer the charge sheet against him.

A notice should be served to McClung through the investigating officer, Goa Crime Branch's inspector Dattaguru Sawant, the court directed.

"It has been shown to my satisfaction that McClung, who is a resident of Washington DC, has absconded or is concealing himself to avoid the service of the summons," the court said.

McClung and Richard Hirsch of the UAE, both former employees of Louis Berger, had pleaded guilty to a bribery charge before a court in the US.

They had admitted to have paid USD 976,630 in bribe for the Goa project.

The Crime Branch had arrested then Goa public works department minister Churchill Alemao in the case in September 2015. Kamat had obtained anticipatory bail from the sessions court.

In October 2016, the Crime Branch filed a charge sheet in this case, naming Kamat as the "prime conspirator".

The police also named McClung, former India vice-president of the company Satyakam Mohanty, head of the JICA-aided project in Goa Anand Wachasunder, suspected Hawala dealer Raychand Soni and former Margao municipal council chairperson Arthur D'Silva as accused.

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The Centre today gave an assurance in the Lok Sabha that fire tenders will be deployed in all 10 inhabited islands in Lakshadweep.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said he was aware of problems being faced by people of the Union Territory and would take all possible steps to resolve them.

"We will deploy fire tenders in all 10 inhabited islands," he said during Question Hour.

The department of fire protection and control is running under the control and supervision of Superintendent of Police- cum-Chief Fire Officer, he said.

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A group of citizens from Assam today voiced their opposition to a proposed bill to amend the six-decade-old Citizenship Act, seeking to grant citizenship to people from minority communities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan.

The minority communities from these countries comprise Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians.

The group, including former Assam chief minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, said at a seminar here that these proposed amendments in the Citizenship Act, 1955, was against the basic structure of the Constitution.

While on the one hand there is absolute lack of will on the part of the central government to deport the foreign nationals, on the other hand the Centre is contemplating to amend the Citizenship Act to give citizenship to a large number of illegal immigrants belonging to a particular religion, the citizens from Assam said.

If the proposed amendments in the Citizenship Act is not withdrawn immediately, it will be a death knell for the indigenous people of Assam, they said.

It is an irony that when the people of the state is demanding detection and deportation of illegal migrants, the central government rather than doing that is trying to legalise the illegal migrants, the group of citizens said.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016, was introduced in the Lok Sabha to amend the Citizenship Act.

Among others, the amendment bill seeks to grant citizenship to people from minority communities -- Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians -- from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12 even if they do not possess any proper document.

A large section of people and organisations in the northeast have opposed the bill, saying it will nullify the provisions of the Assam Accord of 1985, which fixed March 24, 1971, as the cut off date for deportation of all illegal immigrants irrespective of their religion.

The Meghalaya and Mizoram governments have strongly opposed the Citizenship Amendment Bill and adopted resolutions against it.

The Bill is now under consideration of a joint committee of Parliament.

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The body of an unidentified girl, about three years old, was found dumped at an isolated place in Pandesara locality in Surat city of Gujarat today, police said.

The body had injury marks, and it was likely that the girl was killed and then dumped at the spot, said Deputy Commissioner of Police B R Pandor.

Police are waiting for autopsy report, he added.

Notably, the body of a nine-year-old girl had been found from the same locality in April this year. The girl had been sexually assaulted and then killed, as per the autopsy report.

Police had said that both the girl and her mother were murdered by a person who had brought them here as bonded labourers. The alleged culprit was subsequently arrested.

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The Gujarat High Court quashed a rape case against former BJP MLA Jayanti Bhanushali today after accepting the complainant's affidavit seeking withdrawal of the complaint as she has "settled the issue amicably" with him.

Justice P P Bhatt allowed Bhanushali's petition seeking quashing of the FIR in the case after the public prosecutor said the complainant had filed an affidavit to drop charges against him "without any coercion or undue influence".

The affidavit was submitted by the complainant, a 21- year-old woman from Surat, in the HC during the last hearing.

Appearing in person before the HC on last Friday, during the first hearing on Bhanushali's petition, the woman had told the court she had "settled the issue amicably" with the accused.

The HC, during the last hearing, had asked the public prosecutor to instruct the investigating officer concerned to verify if the complainant had moved the affidavit out of coercion or undue influence.

In his petition, Bhanushali had claimed that there had been a "honey trap" against him by a gang led by one Manisha Goswami, who is now behind bars.

Goswami had earlier tried to extort money from Sunil Bhanushali, his relative, but the latter approached the police and she was arrested, the petition said.

To take revenge, the gang targeted him, the BJP leader had claimed in his plea.

The complainant had earlier alleged in the FIR lodged with the Surat police that Bhanushali raped her on several occasions between November 2017 and March after promising to get her admission in a reputed fashion design institute.

Bhanushali represented the Abdasa assembly constituency in Kutch district from 2007 to 2012.

In the wake of the allegation, the 53-year-old leader had last month resigned from the post of the Gujarat BJP vice- president.

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Fake notes with face value of over Rs 13.8 crore were seized in the country post-demonetisation and the highest seizure of over Rs 5.94 crore was reported from Gujarat, the Lok Sabha was informed today.

In response to a question, Minister of State for Home Affairs, Hansraj Gangaram Ahir said as per the data available with the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN) of face value Rs 13.87 crore were seized in states bordering Nepal, Pakistan and Bangladesh from November 09, 2016 till June 30 this year after notes ban.

According to the data provided by the minister, fake currency notes with face value of Rs 5.94 crore were seized from Gujarat, the highest in the country, followed by Rs 2.19 crore in Uttar Pradesh, Rs 2 crore in West Bengal, Rs 1 crore in Mizoram and Rs 1 crore in Mizoram among others.

"Intelligence and security agencies of the Centre and states keep a close watch on the elements involved in the circulation of fake currency in the country and take action on any reported violation of law," the minister said.

Citing steps taken by the government to curb their smuggling and circulation, he said the production or smuggling or circulation of fake currency, coin or any other material was made a terrorist act under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

He said FICN Coordination Group (FCORD) was formed by the MHA to share intelligence/information among the different security agencies of the state/Centre to counter the problem of circulation of fake currency notes in the country.

"A Terror Funding and Fake Currency Cell (TFFC) has also been constituted in the NIA to investigate terror funding and fake currency cases," he said.

The minister said the steps include strengthening security at international borders by using new surveillance technology, deploying additional manpower for round the clock surveillance, establishing observations posts along the international border, erection of border fencing and intensive patrolling.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between India and Bangladesh to prevent and counter smuggling and circulation of fake currency notes, he added.

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The Haryana government will give land free of cost to 'gurukuls' which provide free to children, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said today.

The state government would also assist in making all necessary arrangements required to run such schools including teachers, he said.

Khattar was speaking as the chief guest at a programme on the 'Relevance of the Gurukul system in the present era' organised by Panchnad Shodh Sansthan here.

Underlining the significance of gurukuls, the chief minister said instead of confining just to the three R's : reading, writing, and 'arithmetic, the moral values, yoga, patriotism should be made a part of system.

He said that earlier it was the moral responsibility in our society to provide facilities of health and to the people free of cost but today while the common man lacks resources to avail these facilities, the rich spend immense wealth on them.

Khattar said the Haryana state government had taken many steps for a qualitative change in the education system. A major chunk of the state budget is spent on providing free education to the children, he said.

The state government has also constituted a 21 member State Higher Education Council headed by Prof B K Kuthiala to create an enabling environment for promoting academic excellence, he said.

He advocated abolishing the 'no detention policy' for class first to eighth saying the system had adversely affected the studying habit of students as they have no fear of failing in exams.

Khattar also said that Haryana had made its mark in various spheres, the world over.

Earlier, the Gita Jayanti Samaroh was organised in Kurukshetra at a much smaller scale, he said. The present state government has been holding an international level event, he said. People from 25 countries have participated during the last three years, he said.

This year, the programmes of Gita Jayanti Samaroh would also be held in Mauritius and the United Kingdom (UK), he said.

Earlier, Director, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, Dr Jagat Ram described Gurukul education as the best education system which aims at the overall development of children.

Kuthiala said the Panchnad Shodh Sansthan was set up in the year 1984-85 to maintain a sense of harmony in the society.

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Governor of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana ESL Narasimhan today expressed grief over the death of DMK president and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi.

"The country in general and Tamil Nadu in particular have lost a great administrator and a wonderful human being," the governor said.

He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family.

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The father of Habibur Rahaman, the alleged handler of a hardened LeT terrorist, today said his son should be punished if he is found to be involved in any terror activities.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had arrested Rahaman, the alleged handler of Shaikh Abdul Naeem, after he was deported from Saudi Arabia, officials had said in Delhi yesterday.

Mir Aainuddin, a native of Mirmahala hamlet in Tendakuda gram panchayat of Kendrapara district, said the family had not been in touch with Rahaman from 12 years as he was disowned for marrying outside his religion.

"It's a deep shock for me that my son is linked with subversive elements. He has given us and our village a bad name. He deserves punishment for it," the father added.

"I'm an Indian. I live in my village in Odisha. My son should be punished if he is involved in any terror plan. I can also be punished if I have ever helped him in anti-national activites," Aainuddin told reporters at his village.

"I had no inkling that he got associated with a terror outfit," he said.

The 80-year-old said neither he nor his family members had been in touch with Rahaman from the past 12 years.

"He (Habibur) had visited our village during my younger son's wedding in 2006. Since then he has not come to my house. He stays in Mumbai and later shifted to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia for better income," Aainuddin said.

The octogenarian said he met Rahaman when he went on pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia in 2006. "I was working in Tata and had six daughters. For the weddings of my daughters, I sold some of my landed properties. Habibur had never helped me," he sad.

Rahaman was a welding mechanic and he left for Mumbai in 1988 when he was 24-years-old. He settled there and had two wives and later moved to Saudi Arabia, he said.

"He (Rahaman) never came back again to the village as we had disowned him after for his second marriage which was inter-religion. Since then all ties with him were severed," the father said.

The terrorist handler's younger brother Ataur Rahaman said. "We have no objection if he is punished for any anti-national activities. If he is not guilty leave him.

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A powerful storm that pummeled a busy Colorado zoo with large hail yesterday injured 14 people and killed at least two animals, authorities said.

Five people were taken to the hospital with traumatic injuries after the short but intense afternoon storm passed over Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, according to the Colorado Springs Fire Department.

Another nine were treated at the scene, but additional details about the victims and their injuries have not been released.

Jenny Koch, the zoo's marketing director, told The Denver Post that two vultures and a duck were killed by the hail. But the Colorado Springs Gazette quoted her as saying only one vulture and one duck were killed.

She did not immediately return a phone call yesterday night to clear up the discrepancy.

"It was hail the size I've never seen before," she told The Post.

"Basically chunks of ice ... It's frightening." Softball-sized hail was reported in the area, but it was smaller at the zoo.

About 3,400 people were at the zoo at the time, and dozens of vehicles in the parking lot were damaged.

The zoo will be closed today so employees can take care of injured animals and repair broken windows and skylights.

None of the children attending zoo camp were injured.

The storm knocked out power to nearly 2,000 customers in the area, and heavy rain and debris forced the closure of U.S. Highway 24 west of Manitou Springs, The Colorado Springs Gazette reported.

The Broadmoor Hotel and resort also was pounded by hail, and staff members are assessing the damage.

"It was a significant storm,"said Barry Brown, the hotel's vice president of sales and marketing.

Forecasters warned that runoff from the rain could cause flooding of small creeks, roads, underpasses and low-lying areas as more storms develop along the Front Range yesterday night.

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Haryana Roadways employees today went on a day-long strike in protest against the state government's decision to introduce 700 private buses in the state.

Nearly 4,000 buses in Haryana remained off roads, hitting inter-state and intra-state services.

Employees under the banner of Haryana Roadways Karamchari Joint Action Committee have been holding protests at several places against the state government.

They said they would not allow the state government to launch 700 private buses in the state as it would lead to privatisation of the transport department.

They said the government should instead increase the number of buses under the roadways department.

Police personnel were deployed at several bus stands in Haryana to prevent any untoward incident in the wake of the day-long strike.

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The Bombay High Court asked the Maharashtra government today to ensure no illegal pandals were erected during the upcoming religious festivals and noted that civic bodies and other authorities had been "tolerating" such unauthorised structures on public roads.

It said the government must comply with its previous orders on illegal pandals and warned of contempt action if they were not enforced.

A division bench of justices A S Oka and Riyaz Chagla said it had on several occasions directed the government and civic bodies to take strict action against illegal pandals erected on public roads and streets during festivals as they obstruct traffic.

"As of today there is no substantial compliance with our orders. There has been a failure on part of the local authorities to take action against illegal pandals," Justice Oka said.

"Illegal pandals are being tolerated by the civic bodies and other authorities in complete breach of the Noise Pollution Rules and court orders," he said.

The court directed the authorities to ensure strict compliance of its previous orders regarding illegal pandals ahead of the upcoming religious festivals.

"We direct the government to report compliance of our orders as regards in at least major districts like Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Nashik and Thane. If we find that there is no compliance, then we would be forced to initiate contempt action," it said.

The bench was hearing petitions seeking implementation of the Noise Pollution Rules. The court posted the petitions for further hearing on September 12.

Pandals (temporary structures set up to venerate deities) in large numbers are erected in public places during the Ganesh and Navratri festivals, which will be celebrated in September and October, respectively.

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The Madras High Court today stayed a Tamil Nadu government order transferring all idol theft cases in the state to the CBI, lambasting it for its "hurried" action when the matter was already pending before the court.

A division bench of justices R Mahadevan and P D Audikesavalu stayed the August 1 government order transferring the cases to the Central Bureau of Investigation.

It passed the interim order on a petition by advocate Elephant Rajendran seeking quashing of the G.O.

The court issued notice to the state government and posted the matter to tomorrow for further hearing.

Earlier, the bench questioned the urgency in passing the G.O a day after the government had informed the court that it had taken a policy decision to order the CBI probe.

On August 1, the state government informed the High Court that it had taken a policy decision to hand over all idol theft cases to the CBI as the idol wing, headed by IG Pon Manickavel, was "not performing satisfactorily."



"The government which has not even shown an inch of interest in implementing the directions given by this Court in the idol theft cases has shown that much interest in passing a government order transferring the investigation to CBI," the bench observed.

When the court-appointed team was probing the cases, what made the government to issue the order in such a hurried manner? the bench asked.

Terming the action as "improper and illegal," the bench stayed the G.O.

Meanwhile, the high court granted condition bail to Additional Commissioner of HR&CE, Kavitha, who was arrested on suspicion of involvement in misappropriation of gold and funds collected for making two idols at the Sri Ekambareswarar temple in Kancheepuram.

She was directed to stay at Tiruchirapalli for a month and to appear twice a week before the Idol Wing police.

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Taking a serious view of alleged slaughtering of cows and selling of beef in a village near Roorkee, the Uttarakhand High Court today asked Haridwar police to explain under which law the bovines were being butchered.

A division bench of Acting Chief Justice Rajiv Sharma and Justice Manoj Kumar Tiwari sought the explanation while summoning the Haridwar senior superintendent of police to respond to the allegations in a public interest litigation.

The bench asked the SSP to be personally present before it on August 10, the next date of hearing.

The bench was hearing a petition which alleged that cows were being slaughtered and the beef sold at Solapur Gadha village near Roorkee.

The plea said some of the village natives had obtained permits in 2014-2015 to slaughter cows and sell beef in 2014-2015.

The permits, however, were never renewed later, it said adding that despite their non-renewal, the villagers continue to slaughter cows and sell beef.

In fact, they would even release the blood of the butchered cow in the Ganga, said the petition, adding these activities were not only illegal, but also a serious health hazard to the local residents.

The petition said the residents earlier had lodged complaints with the SSP, who inquired into the matter but took no action against those involved in the illegal trade.

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The BJP Nagaland unit today took out a protest rally and burnt an effigy of Congress MP Shashi Tharoor here demanding apology from the former union minister for allegedly disrespecting the Naga culture.

Tharoor has shown utter disregard towards the custom of the Nagas and have crossed all limits, state BJP General Secretary James Vizo said.

He also demanded an apology from Tharoor.

"It is shameful for someone who was at the United Nations and is an elected representative to mock the custom of the tribal people. He has insulted the tribal people of north east in general and the Nagas in particular," Vizo said.

The Thiruvananthapuram MP had courted controversy by claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi could wear all kinds of headgear, but not Muslim skull cap.

"I ask you why does our prime minister wear all sorts of outlandish headgear wherever he goes around the country or around the world? Why does he always refuse to wear a Muslim skull cap?" Tharoor had said while speaking at a seminar in the capital of Kerala on August 5.

Vizo claimed that the attitude unmasked the Congress' claims of being the party for the downtrodden minorities and tribals.

Tharoor's statement drew sharp response from the BJP leaders and Union ministers.

Being attacked for the statement, he said in a tweet: "The cynicism of theBJP is as impressive as their tactics.

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: Following are the top stories from the northern region at 9.30 pm.

SRINAGAR DEL50 JK-LD INFILTRATION



Srinagar: An Army major and three soldiers were killed during an operation in which they foiled an infiltration bid in Gurez area of North Kashmir, gunning down two of the eight infiltrators, officials said.

GORAKHPUR DEL61 UP-LD-SHELTER-INMATE



Gorakhpur/Deoria (UP): The police today found an inmate from the Deoria shelter home, from where 24 girls were rescued and 18 appeared missing on Sunday night, at an old age home run by the same NGO in Gorakhpur.

LUCKNOW DES10 UP-GIRLS-MINISTER



Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi today admitted laxity by Deoria administration in shutting down the shelter home from where 24 girls were rescued, saying the district officials were aware about the closure order but allowed the facility to operate for more than a year.

SRINAGAR DEL7 JK-INFILTRATION



Srinagar: An Army major and three soldiers were killed while foiling an infiltration bid in north Kashmir's Gurez sector, officials said today. At least two militants were gunned down in the operation, they said.

NEWDELHI DES12 LSQ-JK-INFILTRATION



New Delhi: Sixty-nine terrorists have infiltrated into Jammu and Kashmir from across the border till June this year, Lok Sabha was informed today.

CHANDIGARH NRG6 PB-AAP-DISSIDENTS



Chandigarh: The dissident legislators of the Aam Aadmi Party's Punjab unit today announced its eight-member ad-hoc Political Affairs Committee (PAC) for the state.

CHANDIGARH DES3 HR-ROADWAYS-STRIKE



Chandigarh: Haryana Roadways employees today went on a day-long strike in protest against the state government's decision to introduce 700 private buses in the state.

BALLIA DES28 UP-MINISTER-PRAYER



Ballia (UP): Uttar Pradesh minister and Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP) chief Om Prakash Rajbhar's supporters in Dharampura village treat him as a deity and the politician doesn't mind at all.

CHANDIGARH DES36 HR-GURUKULS-KHATTAR



Chandigarh: The Haryana government will give land free of cost to 'gurukuls' which provide free education to children, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said today.

SRINAGAR DEL37 JK-OMAR-MEHBOOBA



Srinagar: Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti today took on each other with words -- and emojis -- to trade barbs on the issue of elections for the deputy chairperson of the Rajya Sabha.

SRINAGAR DES55 JK-SHRC



Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has raised questions over the manner police applied the Public Safety Act (PSA), a law which provides for preventive detention of a person without trial for six months to one year, in case of a man from Bandipora who stayed under detention for nearly three years.

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A couple of health groups have expressed concern at the "misuse" of the public-funded Pradhanmantri Bharatiya Jan Aushadi Pariyojna, a flagship scheme of the Centre to make available quality medicines at affordable prices, for "promotion" of the ruling BJP.

The Jan Swasthya Abhiyan, a health movement, and All India Drug Action Network said it was unfortunate that the labels of drugs dispersed through the Pradhanmantri Bharatiya Jan Aushadi Pariyojna highlights the name of the BJP in saffron colour.

"The Jan Aushadi scheme's website also highlights the first letters of Pradhanmantri Bharatiya Jan Aushadi Pariyojna in saffron. Clearly a government website and products distributed through a public funded scheme are being used to highlight the name of the political party -- the BJP.

"This represents gross misuse of public funds and is a willful disregard of Supreme Court directions on government advertisements," they said in a joint statement.

Observing that the BJP is conflating the government's "achievements" with one political party, the Jan Swasthya Abhiyan urged the Centre to immediately revert to the earlier nomenclature of the Jan Aushadhi Scheme and recall the drug labels highlighting the name of BJP.

It also sought reissuance of medicines without highlighting the name of a particular political party on them and also to change the scheme's logo on the website.

"Further we urge the government to take appropriate steps to strengthen the Jan Aushadhi scheme so that real benefits accrue to a much larger number of patients," they said.

The health groups also said contrary to claims being made, the Jan Aushadi scheme "falls far short of the laudable intent to provide relief to poor patients reeling under the impact of spiralling drug prices".

While there are over 6 lakh chemist outlets in the country, only a little over 3,000 outlets have been rolled out under the scheme, they said.

"This represents just 0.5 per cent of chemist outlets in the country. Reports also suggest that many of the outlets under the scheme face serious stock outs of important medicines.

"It would have been far more desirable if more energy had been expended in strengthening the scheme rather than in finding ways to make the scheme a part of the propaganda campaign of a particular political party," the statement stated.

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Life remained crippled in many parts of Odisha today due to incessant rainfall triggered by a low pressure which, the MeT department said, may turn into a depression and bring more downpour by tomorrow.

Heavy rains since yesterday also badly affected train services as well as road traffic in several areas of the state due to waterlogging, officials said.

At least five trains were cancelled, eight others partially cancelled, five trains rescheduled and originating station of five others altered, East Coast Railway (ECoR) sources said, adding that waterlogging was also reported in the Puri railway station.

Vehicular movement was hit in several places as road links were snapped due to gushing water, while educational institutions remained closed in Cuttack and Khurda, officials said.

Director of the Meteorological Centre here, H R Biswas said a low pressure area over the northwest Bay of Bengal, which now lies as a well marked low pressure area, is likely to concentrate into a depression and move west northwestwards by tomorrow.

Under its impact, more rainfall is likely to take place in northern and coastal interior parts of Odisha until tomorrow, said Biswas.

The MeT centre issued heavy rainfall alert for Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Bhadrak, Balasore, Jajpur, Mayurbhanj, Jharsuguda and Sundergarh till tomorrow.

Puri district recorded the maximum rainfall of 305 mm, causing hardships to people as low-lying areas were inundated, the officials said.

The road facing the Shri Jagannath Temple was in knee-deep water, they said.

The state capital, Bhubaneswar, recorded a rainfall of 141.4 mm which caused severe waterlogging at many places such as Acharya Vihar, Jaydev Vihar, Nayapalli, Paika Nagar, Bomikhal, Dumduma and Gouri Nagar with rain water gushing into houses in several localities, the officials said.

Personnel of the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation and fire brigade were pumping the water out and rescuing people in affected areas, they said.

The situation was equally bad in Cuttack where road traffic was severely affected as rain water inundated many places, the officials said.

Though water levels in several rivers were rising at many places, they were well below the danger mark, they said, adding that there was no cause for panic.

Deputy Relief Commissioner Pravat Ranjan Mohapatra ruled out the possibility of flood in the state but the administration in districts like Balasore and Mayurbhanj were asked to be in alert.

Average rainfall of the state recorded for the last 24 hours was 34.2 mm while the precipitation was much more than that in districts of Puri (134.9 mm), Khordha (95.0 mm), Cuttack (77.4 mm) and Jagatsinghpur (68.4 mm). All 30 districts received more or less rainfall in the last 24 hours.

Puri Sadar Block has recorded rainfall of more than 300 mm. Eleven more Blocks have recorded rainfall of over 100 mm, the statement said.

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The Bombay High Court today asked the civic agencies in Mumbai and the Railways to hold regular meetings to solve the problems of local train commuters and directed speedy completion of foot and rail overbridges in the city.

"Remember you are all working for the public and that human life is important," the court said.

Both the Central Railway and the Western Railway should expedite the repair of Foot Over Bridges (FOBs) and Rail Over Bridges (ROBs) across the city, said a bench of justices Naresh Patil and G S Kulkarni.

The issue of dilapidated train infrastructure came to the fore last month when a part of ROB (road bridge across the tracks) collapsed in suburban Andheri, killing two persons.

The court was hearing petitions seeking various directions for improvement of the suburban rail network.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) today said that Railways had asked for Rs 27 crore for repair and maintenance of FOBs and ROBs.

The BMC agreed to the demand but the Railways was yet to submit details of the proposed work, the corporation's lawyer said.

"The Railways will submit the details immediately and you must not delay the release of funds to them. All agencies (including the BMC and city planning body Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority) must work together to resolve the woes of commuters," the court said.

"You must also hold regular joint meetings to discuss problems faced by the commuters and the ways by which those can be resolved," the bench said.

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Sony Pictures is releasing Hollywood movie 'Alpha', an epic adventure set inthe last Ice Age, in India on August 24.

The film, directed by Albert Hughes and starring Kodi Smit-McPhee and Jhannes Haukur Jhannesson, explores the origin of man's best friend.

According to an official synopsis of the film, while on his first hunt with his tribe's most elite group, a young man is injured and must learn to survive alone in the wilderness.

He reluctantly tames a lone wolf abandoned by its pack and the pair learn to rely on each other and become unlikely allies, enduring countless dangers and overwhelming odds in order to find their way home before winter arrives.

The film will be releasing in English and Tamil.

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Security measures at the Delhi Metro and the IGI airport have been stepped up with the induction of over 600 fresh CISF personnel and commuters are being thoroughly frisked in view of the heightened vigil in the run up to the Independence Day on August 15, official sources said.

They said while passengers in the Delhi Metro are being twice frisked before entering the Delhi Metro stations, additional CISF quick reaction teams (QRTs) and flying squads have been deployed at select stations that witness a heavy footfall or are important from the security point of view.

The Central Industrial Security Force, that is tasked to secure over 210 stations of the metro in the national capital region, has enhanced the number of security personnel in the network to keep a better eye on the people and their luggage, the officials said.

Passengers getting in at a number of airports are being frisked twice, first manually and later with a hand-held metal detector, they said, adding that instructions have been issued to the personnel to render the job scrupulously but without taking much time.

"About 500 CISF personnel have been deployed additionally in the Delhi Metro network as part of the stepped up security measures in the wake of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15," a senior official said.

CISF metro security chief Deputy Inspetor General (DIG) Raghubir Lal told PTI that they have already held meetings with various stakeholders like the Delhi Police, metro authorities and others as part of the drills undertaken to fortify security before August 15.

"A new control room, armed with over 5,000 CCTVs and other smart tools, has recently been commissioned for the CISF and it will help us in better monitoring operations at stations under its surveillance cover," the DIG said.

Special teams of mufti-wearing intelligence and passenger profiling sleuths have been deployed at various stations and they have been asked to keep an eye on a few stations by continuously moving between them, another official said on the condition of anonymity.

The officials said similar measures have been deployed at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport and passengers are randomly being made to undertake a second frisking, called the secondary ladder point check (SLPC).

"While there is no specific threat this time, the security is on high alert. All civilian passes issued to people for entering the terminal areas of the airport have been disallowed as a routine practice," an official at the airport said.

About 100-150 additional Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel have been deployed at the airport and passengers may have to undergo a rigorous check of themselves and their luggage in certain cases.

"In specific cases, passengers may have to take off their shoes and belt before they are frisked. The number of plainclothes personnel who spot trouble, both outside and inside the airport, have been enhanced," he said.

The official added that vigil has also been stepped and a close eye is being kept at all category of vehicles entering the airport area.

Various events, including the main function at Red Fort where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unfurl the national flag, will be held in the national capital and the NCR to mark the 72nd Independence Day on August 15.

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Congress president Rahul Gandhi today condoled the demise of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi and said he strode the stage of Tamil like a colossus for six decades.

The Congress leader said that in his passing, India has lost a "great son".

Gandhi would be travelling to Chennai tomorrow, along with other senior Congress leaders, to pay homage to the DMK patriarch and participate in the last rites.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," he said on Twitter.

DMK chief M Karunanidhi, one of the foremost Dravidian politicians in modern times, died here today, after waging a grim battle for life aged 94, the hospital where he was admitted for the last 11 days said.

One of the most charismatic figures of Tamil Nadu whose public life spanned over seven decades, is survived by two wives and six children, including DMK working president and heir apparent M K Stalin and daughter Kanimozhi, a Rajya Sabha MP.

The most enduring mascot of the Dravidian movement breathed his last at 6.10 pm, the hospital said.

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Issues related to security along the border and sharing of information on criminals will be discussed threadbare at the 3rd India-Nepal Coordination meeting to be held tomorrow, the Home Ministry said today.

A seven-member delegation from Nepal, headed by Inspector General of Nepal Armed Police Force Shailendra Khanal, is here to take part in the three-day meeting.

During the visit, several important matters like security scenario along the border, coordination meetings at field level, sharing of information about crimes and criminals, training of armed police personnel and mutual visits by officers of two countries will be discussed, a home ministry statement said.

Khanal today called on Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, who said India-Nepal relationship derives strength from shared history, trade, economic partnership, cultural ties and close and intense people-to-people contact.

He appreciated the "excellent cooperation" between security forces of two countries and stressed upon improved coordination through joint patrolling, common training of armed forces officers, regular border meetings and other means.

Khanal also appreciated the coordination between the two countries and emphasised the need for periodic coordination meetings, and common training courses for armed police officers of two countries, the statement said.

The delegation also visited the headquarters of the Central Industrial Security Force for an interaction with senior officials and they were given a presentation on various aspects of airport and metro rail security.

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India has offered 262 concessional Lines of Credit (LOCs) amounting to USD 25.7 billion to 61 countries and it never imposes any developmental projects on any nation, Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh said today.

He said India has granted LOCs to the countries mostly in Africa, South-East Asia, Central Asia, Latin America and small island nations, covering a range of sectors including clean energy.

The Union Minister was speaking at an event jointly organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, Exim Bank and International Solar Alliance with an aim to bring on one platform all stakeholders implementing various projects in the field of solar energy.

"India's model of developmental assistance is slightly different. We prefer that the countries which want assistance to identify their own projects. We don't want to impose any project on them," Singh said, in presence of diplomats from several countries which have been beneficiaries of Indian aid.

His comments are seen as an indirect reference to China which has been pumping in billions of dollars of investments into the African continent, with which India has been having traditionally close relationship.

While talking about India's total assistance of USD 25.7 billion as LOCs, the minister did not specify any time period for implementation of the schemes under it.

Singh said India has set up project consultancy teams to speed up identifying of potential projects in the countries getting financial assistance from India.

"You can tell the project consultancy team that you want to prepare a DPR (Detailed Project Report) for a project. Give it to us, take the LOC. Have it implemented the way you want to," he said.

In the last few years, the MEA has taken initiatives to speed up implementation of various developmental projects in Africa, Central Asia and South East Asia.

Speaking separately after the event, Exim Bank Managing Director David Rasquinha said some amount of India's LOC can be used for solar energy projects.

"We, as India, do not force a project on a country. If a country is interested, we are happy to finance. As the finance is available we would like the willing countries to make use of that," Rashquinha said.

The India-initiated International Solar Alliance came into force on December 6, 2017.

India hosted the first conference of the ISA in March this year. So far, 68 members are signatory to the ISA and 40 have ratified the ISA framework agreement.

The minister said India has laid out a target of 175 GW (giga watt) of renewable energy for itself, of which 100 GW is solar.

Of the 100 GW of solar power capacity, 20 GW has already been attained, Singh said.

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India's expenditure on the health sector has risen from 1.2 per cent of the GDP in 2013-14 to 1.4 per cent in 2017-18, Health Minister J P Nadda said today.

He was addressing the concern of members of the Rajya Sabha about the low share of funds spent on healthcare as a percentage of the GDP.

Replying to questions during the Question Hour, Nadda said the funds spent by the government, including that by the states, would further increase when the 'Ayushman Bharat' scheme kicks in.

"The National Health Protection Scheme (now Ayushman Bharat National Health Protection Mission) provides for financial protection of up to Rs 5 lakh per family per year to 10.74 crore families (or 50 crore population) for secondary and tertiary hospitalisation. The cost is borne by the government (Centre and States)," he said.

The minister said the work for the launch of the scheme was on and even the Indian Medical Association has been brought on board.

He also said it was also envisaged that in the coming years, a comprehensive screening would be carried out for individuals who turn 30. They would be screened for several diseases including diabetes and cancer, as early detection in many cases would not only bring down costs but also help in better cure.

"Government has increased the total public health expenditure (Centre and States) from Rs 1.49 lakh crore in 2014-15 to Rs 2.25 lakh crore in 2017-18," he said quoting the Economic Survey 2017-18.

"Further, the National Health Policy 2017 envisages raising government health spending to 2.5 per cent of the GDP by 2025 in a time-bound manner. It also envisages increasing state sector health spending to more than 8 per cent of their budget by 2020," he said in his reply tabled in the House.

During the Question Hour, the members asked Power Minister R K Singh if the government was aware of issues that could crop up in the integration of renewable power with the rest of the grid.

Singh said that two 'green corridors' one for intra- state and another for inter-state transfer of power were under implementation.

He also said the government was working on scheme under which farmers would be able to utilise their fallow land for setting up of solar plants. This power can then be sold, enabling farmers to earn more, Singh said.

The minister said the government had set up an ambitious target of generation of 175000 MW of renewable energy by 2020 and expressed confidence that the target would be achieved.

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India is all set to comfortably achieve 100 GW of solar energy capacity by 2022 and has already installed solar capacity of 23.12 GW till July this year, Parliament was informed today.

The data regarding generation of power from various renewable energy projects is consolidated by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA).

"The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has planned a detailed trajectory so as to meet the target of 100 GW by 2022. A capacity of 23.12 GW was already installed up to July 2018. Projects of around 10 GW are under implementation and tenders for additional 24.4 GW have been issued," Power and New and Renewable Energy Minister R K Singh said in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.

"The country is on track to comfortably achieve the target of 100 GW of solar capacity by 2022," he added.

The minister said solar power projects require around 4 to 5 acres of land per MW and the MNRE monitors the development of upcoming and commissioned renewable energy projects with implementing agencies like Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), state nodal agencies and state governments/UT administrations through regular meetings, video-conferences and on the site visits.

Karnataka topped the installed solar energy capacity chart at 5.16 GW followed by Telangana at 3.4GW and Andhra Pradesh at 2.56 GW as on July 31, 2017, the minister noted.

In another reply to the House, the minister said the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) has assessed the solar power potential of the country at 748 GW.

Solar energy output in the country was 25.87 billion units in 2017-18, which was higher than 13.49 billion units in 2016-17, 7.44 billion units in 2015-16 and 4.59 billion units in 2014-15, it stated.

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Anita Kumar has become the first Indian-American to be elected to the board of the White House Correspondents Association (WHCA), more than a century-old apex body of journalists covering the US president.

Kumar, who has been covering the White House since 2012, was elected unopposed to the WHCA Board.

Born and brought up in Charlottesville, she went to the University of Virginia. After college, she started her journalism career from the and Advance in Lynchburg, Virginia and the and Record in Greensboro, North Carolina.

St Petersburg Times, now known as The Tampa Bay Times, was her first major organisation, where she worked for 10 years before moving to the US capital.

Kumar is now the White House Correspondent for the McClatchy group of newspapers.

"Last year, when I ran for the first time, and I ran for the president. A



few people encouraged me to run for the president of the body because they thought this would be such a statement to the Trump White House that somebody like me and a woman would be the (WHCA) president," she told PTI in an interview.

Now covering the White House for the second president, she feels that access to journalists has been an issue in both the presidency she covered.

"They (journalists) want more briefings. They want more on the record statements. They want more access to other people besides (the White House Press Secretary) Sarah Sanders. They want the press office people to return their emails. That's a big problem to get anyone to respond and answer any questions," she said.

The board of the WHCA has nine members.

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Finding it difficult to defend the Trump administration's policies as a diplomat especially over race and immigration, Sri Preston Kulkarni last December decided to quit his dream job at the US State Department to run for Congress.

Kulkarni, whose family traces its roots to Maharashtra and Karnataka, on his website said he spent his career trying to reduce conflict in other countries..."but right now hostility and conflict are being inflamed in our own country through the of anger and demagoguery".

"I have worked under Democratic and Republican administrations before, but the current situation is different and should concern all Americans of conscience," he said on his website.

After quitting his job, Kulkarni announced that he will run for the 22nd Congressional District of Texas, to be part of the policy making, and not implementing them.

Six months later, he won the Democratic primary and is pitching for a tough battle against five-term Republican incumbent Pete Olson.

"There is a little bit of nervousness on the other side about (my) campaign," Kulkarni told PTI.

Kulkarni's family immigrated to the US in 1969 to Louisiana, where he was born in 1978. Soon thereafter they moved to Houston, where Kulkarni grew.

After completing his college, he joined the US foreign service in 2003 and has worked in various capacities in both inside the US and overseas. This summer he was posted for the important position of the spokesperson of the US Embassy in New Delhi.

Being an Indian-American, representing the US was very important, he said.

"But I think the 2016 election for me actually drove home as some of these issues are still unresolved for America," he said.

"During that election, there was so much anti-immigrant sentiment being spread that it was a real blow to me personally. When I came back to the State Department, I said (to myself) 'I'm just going to continue to be a professional and I'm going to do this job'," he said.

But, there were two incidents that changed his mind and made him feel that he couldn't continue in the State Department.

"One was the Charlottesville rally one year ago where we had Nazis in the street screaming about white supremacy and my government could not make a clear distinction. That's absolutely morally unequivocally awful. I was asked to explain this when I was overseas. Why is it that they're very fine people who were Nazis and why is it that both sides are the same? I couldn't do that," Kulkarni said.

At the rally last summer, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the streets before a car plowed into a crowd, killing 32-year-old counterprotester.

The second was the Roy Moore campaign, Kulkarni recollected.

"He was molesting 14-year-old girls and he said that our families are stronger when we had slavery and that Muslims shouldn't be able to hold a public office in the United States. To me that's just beyond what's acceptable in the kind of democracy and the kind of society that I believe in," he said.

Moore was the Republican nominee in the 2017 US Senate special election in Alabama to fill the seat vacated by Jeff Sessions. Moore, who had faced multiple allegations of sexual assault during his campaign was backed by President Donald Trump. Later he lost to Democratic candidate Doug Jones.

At the time of these incidents, Kulkarni was in Jamaica on a temporary assignment. His next posting was at the US Embassy in New Delhi as its spokesperson.

"I decided that I was going to resign to come back home and run for office. Because I think we need to stand up against this idea that we should be divided up by, by race, by ethnicity, and that some people are less American than other people. That's when I started the campaign," Kulkarni said.

Kulkarni resigned from the foreign service in December.

Kulkarni says that its not about just one person, Trump as an individual.

"It is more about these ideas that we should be divided against each other, Muslim versus Hindu or Muslim or Christian or Hindu versus Christian or black versus white or Asian versus white. That ideas are the more dangerous thing than a person," he said.

He said the social fabric of America was being torn apart and Americans were blaming immigrants for everything.

"If the fight is against illegal immigrants, then why H-1B programme is being threatened. Why are we trying to reduce legal immigration and family reunification? he asked.

"It doesn't have to do with illegal immigration. That has to do with anti-immigrant sentiment. The anti-immigrant sentiment is something that should worry all of us because we are an immigrant country and honestly, without immigrants, most of our fortune 500 companies wouldn't be here," Kulkarni said.

"But whenever any group is discriminated against, it's a threat to all minority groups. If a Muslim is being discriminated against, it still affects me as a Hindu," Kulkarni said.

Now running an effective campaign, Kulkarni, pollsters say has considerably reduced the poll numbers against his rival Olson, who is considered to be a friend of India in the US Congress.

Kulkarni, who is a cousin of BJP Member of Parliament Poonam Mahajan, hopes that the entire community would come out to vote in November.

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Indian banks reported a total loss of about Rs 70,000 crore due to frauds during the last three fiscals up to March 2018, the Rajya Sabha was informed today.

The extent of loss in fraud cases reported by scheduled commercial banks (SCBs)for 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 was Rs 16,409 crore, Rs 16,652 crore and Rs 36,694 crore, respectively, Minister of State for Finance Shiv Pratap Shukla said in a written reply quoting RBI data.

The minister said that data of frauds is as per the year of reporting and not the year of occurrence of fraud or sanction of loan, letter of undertaking, which may might be of an earlier period.

The minister also informed the House that gross advances by SCBs increased from Rs 25.03 lakh crore as on March 31, 2008, to Rs 68.75 lakh crore on March 31, 2014.

As regards the stressed assets in the banking system, Shukla said the spurt was due to aggressive lending practices, wilful default, loan frauds, corruption in some cases and economic slowdown.

Replying to another question, he said as per RBI data, there were 139 borrowers with aggregate gross NPAs of more than Rs 1,000 crore.

Shukla said the RBI has apprised that it issued directions to banks in June 2017, instructing them to file applications for initiation of corporate insolvency resolution process (CIRP) under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IPC) in respect of 12 borrowers.

The 12 borrowers had cumulative fund-based and non-fund based outstanding amount of Rs 1,97,769 crore as on March 31, 2017.

"It subsequently issued further directions to banks advising them to finalise and implement resolution plans in respect of 29 accounts by December 13, 2017, failing which these too had to be referred to CIRP under IBC," Shukla said.

The cumulative fund-based and non-fund based outstanding amount of these accounts was Rs 1,35,846 crore, as on June 30, 2017.

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The Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) in Madhya Pradesh will track its 10,000-odd employees through Global Positioning System (GPS)-enabled wrist watches that will be provided to them, an official said today.

The move will enhance professional efficiency of employees and record their attendance, said civic commissioner Ashish Singh.

The civic body of Indore, adjudged the cleanest city in the country in March this year, will also monitor the movement of its 600 garbage carrying vehicles through the GPS, he said.

"It's our top priority to maintain the No. 1 position of Indore in cleanliness. We will need to increase the efficiency of our employees to improve the level of other services along with cleanliness.

"To achieve this aim, we are going to take help of GPS technology beside adopting other ways," Singh told PTI.

"We have ordered a company to supply 10,000 GPS- enabled smart watches in the first round. These watches are being taken on a monthly rent of Rs 300 each. Their supply is likely to start from the next week," he said.

He said the IMC, which has 85 wards, has also started a pilot project to monitor the movement of 600 vehicles that collect garbage in the city through GPS.

Under the project, a private IT firm has prepared a special software. This software will prepare a detailed performance report of the drivers of these vehicles.

The commissioner said, "We have tested this project in 50 per cent of the wards. It was ascertained whether or not the garbage vehicles were using their designated routes. The time taken by these vehicles for door-to-door garbage collection is also estimated."



Elaborating on the smart watch project, Singh said he and other IMC employees and officers, including additional and deputy commissioners, engineers and workers (totalling around 10,000) engaged in sanitation work, would wear the device during their duty hours.

"With the help of this gadget, we will be able to check easily whether or not employees engaged in sanitation work are doing their duty properly at the field level. The watch would record their duty time and register attendance at their workplace," the civic chief said.

Singh said a control room is being set up to monitor the real-time movement of IMC's garbage vehicles and track employees with the help of GPS.

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The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology, chaired by BJP MP Anurag Thakur, has asked the Department of Telecom (DoT) to involve members of Parliament for setting up Wi-Fi hotspots in village panchayats.

The panel in its report tabled in Parliament today recommended that specific emphasis should be given for setting up of Wi-Fi hotspots in gram panchayats (GPs) under Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY).

The committee also recommended that while setting up Wi-Fi hotspots emphasis should also be given to participation of village level entrepreneurs (VLEs) so as to generate employment and revenue for them in the rural areas.

The DoT has already awarded task to set up Wi-Fi hotspots in 25,000 GPs in UP and 3,243 GPs in Himachal Pradesh to the CSC-SPV which manages common services centres (CSCs) to provide government services in rural areas.

CSC special purpose vehicle allocates CSCs as franchisee to VLEs who operate them.

"The committee also recommended that the department should also make an impact assessment study wherever connectivity has been provided and associate local MPs with this initiative," the report said.

Wi-Fi services of all 10,000 GPs in Rajasthan are being covered by Rajasthan government.

"Further, at 5,298 GPs which are planned to be covered on satellite media, Wi-Fi services will also be provided by the agency which is implementing satellite connectivity to the GPs," the report said.

In addition to this, the DoT submitted to the the panel that public Wi-Fi hotspots are being set up by BSNL at its 25,000 telephone exchanges in rural areas and Wifi Choupals are to be set up in 5,000 GPs by CSC-SPV under Ministry of Electronics and IT.

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A special CBI court here in Gujarat today rejected the discharge applications of former police officers D G Vanzara and N K Amin in the case of alleged fake encounter of Ishrat Jahan and three others.

Special judge J K Pandya rejected the applications of Vanzara and Amin.

The court last month concluded the hearing of arguments of the two accused retired police officers, the CBI and Ishrat Jahan's mother Shamima Kauser, who had challenged Vanzara's discharge plea.

Vanzara, a former deputy inspector general of police in Gujarat, had sought discharge on the ground of parity with the state's former in-charge Director General of Police P P Pandey, who was discharged in the case in February this year for want of evidence against him.

Amin, who retired as the superintendent of police, sought his discharge on the ground that the encounter was genuine and that testimonies of witnesses produced by the Central Bureau of Investigation were not reliable.

Ishrat Jahan's mother sought to oppose the pleas of Amin and Vanzara, and told the court that her daughter was "murdered following a conspiracy between high-ranking police officers and others holding powerful and influential positions".

She alleged that Vanzara played a "direct and key role" in the conspiracy behind the "staged encounter".

Ishrat Jahan, a 19-year-old woman from Mumbra area of Thane district near Mumbai, and three others - Javed Shaikh alias Pranesh Pillai, Amjadali Akbarali Rana and Zeeshan Johar - were killed by the police in an "encounter" on the outskirts of Ahmedabad on June 15, 2004.

At that time, the police had claimed that the four had terror links and plotted to kill then Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi.

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An Israeli strike today killed two militants of the Gaza Strip's ruling Hamas movement after shots were fired at soldiers, Gazan and Israeli officials said.

Hamas's military wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, confirmed in a statement that the dead men were its fighters and named them as Ahmed Murjan and Abdel-Hafez al-Silawi.

An Israeli military statement, apparently referring to the same incident, said that the army returned fire after shots were fired at its soldiers from a Hamas post in the northern Gaza Strip, next to the border with Israel.

Palestinian sources said that the Israeli attack was in the north of the strip but they said it was a drone strike, while the Israeli statement said that it was tank fire. A video distributed by the Israeli army appeared to show a tank striking a military post in the Gaza Strip.

The military said it was prepared "to target any aggression against Israel and holds Hamas responsible for everything happening in and from the Gaza Strip." It added that no Israeli troops were injured in the exchange.

Hamas warned Israel that it would pay for the attack, without elaborating.

"The resistance cannot allow the occupation to impose a policy of bombing sites and targeting fighters without paying the price," it said in a statement.

Since Palestinian protests and clashes along the Gaza border erupted at the end of March, at least 160 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire.

One Israeli soldier has been shot dead by a Palestinian sniper.

The protests call for Palestinians to be able to return to the land they or their families fled or were expelled from in the 1948 war surrounding the creation of Israel.

Israel says any such return would mean the end of it as a Jewish state.

Gaza's Islamist rulers Hamas have fought three wars with Israel since 2008. The United Nations and Egypt are currently trying to secure a deal between Israel and Hamas for a lasting truce.

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Adviser to her father President Donald Trump, Ivanka Trump said today that Indra Nooyi has been her mentor and inspiration as she expressed her gratitude for the outgoing PepsiCo chief's passionate engagement on various social issues.

"The great @IndraNooyi is stepping down as PepsiCo CEO, after 12 yrs. Indra, you are a mentor + inspiration to so many, myself included," Ivanka tweeted.

Ivanka said she is "deeply grateful" for Nooyi's friendship and thanked the Chennai-born executive for her "passionate engagement on issues that benefit the people of this country, and beyond."



In 2016, Nooyi had joined a 19-person Strategic and Policy Forum created by then President-elect Trump as he prepared his economic agenda for the US. However, the forum disbanded in August 2017 in the wake of Trump's confrontational response to a violent white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia.

PepsiCo's Board of Directors unanimously elected Ramon Laguarta, 54, to succeed Nooyi, 62, as Chief Executive Officer.

Nooyi will step down on October 3 after 24 years with the company, the last 12 as CEO. She will remain Chairman until early 2019 to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

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The Jammu and Kashmir government has called for



setting up of Child Protection Committees in all schools and other educational centres to safeguard children's rights.

Jammu Deputy Commissioner Ramesh Kumar at a meeting directed school heads and representatives to take onus of protecting children.

"For that there is need to take appropriate measures," he said.

A meeting was convened to discuss the framework, necessity for establishing, promoting and strengthening child protection mechanism that recognises, promotes and protects child rights at the grassroots level.

It was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Arun Manhas, Chairperson Child Welfare Committee Jammu Shalini Sharma, CEO JK Sudan, ZEOs, principals of various schools, private school association and JK private school coordination committee besides others officers of the Department.

Kumar called for formation of an internal complaint redress cell in every school and asked for monitoring the behaviour of teachers, staff and students.

"Report child rights violation incidents and follow the Vishaka Guidelines stipulated by the Supreme Court regarding sexual harassment at workplace.If required, refer such incidents to the appropriate authorities," the DC told principals.

He further asked them to ensure the barring of corporal punishment in their respective schools.

Emphasising on imparting moral to the students, the DC instructed the principals to conduct workshops and parent-teacher meetings especially in government-run schools.

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Union Minister Arun Jaitley, who had undergone a kidney transplant surgery on May 14, is likely to resume office of Finance Minister in the third week of August, sources said.

Jaitley, according to sources, is recovering well and will be able to assume the responsibilities of the Finance Ministry.

He has been quite active on social media -- writing blogs on various economic and non-economic issues, like National Register for Citizens (NRC) in Assam, over four-decades of Emergency, No-confidence Motion in Parliament, Rafael fighter jet deal, and GST.

He also participated in couple of events like banking conclave and the first anniversary of the launch of Goods and Services Tax (GST) through video conferencing.

On May 14, when Jaitley underwent a kidney surgery, Railway and Coal Minister Piyush Goyal was temporarily given additional charge of the Finance Ministry.

Jaitley has been the Finance Minister since the Modi government assumed office in May 2014. He is also the leader of the Rajya Sabha.

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A Tokyo medical school has confirmed after an internal investigation that it systematically altered entrance exam scores for years to keep out female applicants and ensure more men became doctors.

Tokyo Medical University manipulated all entrance tests results since 2000 or even earlier. The findings released Tuesday by lawyers involved in the internal investigation confirm recent reports in Japanese media.

The manipulation surfaced during an investigation of an alleged wrongful admission of a bureaucrat's son.

The internal investigation found the school first reduced all applicants' first-stage scores to 80 percent then added up to 20 points only to male applicants with three or fewer application tries.

The school wanted fewer female doctors because it anticipated they would become mothers and would shorten or halt their careers.

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Over 90 per cent JNU teachers have voted against Vice Chancellor Jagadesh Kumar in a referendum held today, supporting the demand for his ouster, the varsity's teachers' body claimed.

The referendum, supervised by external observers, clearly showed that the current vice chancellor should not continue any further, JNU Teachers Association (JNUTA) said in a statement.

"As many as 93 per cent of the JNU teachers voted against the vice chancellor in the referendum," it said.

"Out of total 586 listed faculty members at JNU, 300 turned up to cast their votes. Among the voters, 279 teachers voted in favour of the VC being relieved," it added.

The teachers' body alleged a "general atmosphere of fear" has been created by the current administration and individual teachers are being targeted and issued notices for expressing "dissent" on academic and other issues.

The teachers also gave a thumbs down to a demand by the varsity for a multi-crore loan from the government through the Higher Fund Agency (HEFA), the statement said.

The HEFA loan was rejected by 96 per cent of the teachers who took part in the referendum, JNUTA said.

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The Jawaharlal Nehru University will be organising its second convocation tomorrow, almost 46 years after it organised its first.

More than 400 students, who have successfully graduated between January 1, 2017, and June 30, 2018, will be conferred with the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), the varsity said.

The chief guest of the convocation, Professor VK Saraswat, Chancellor of JNU and current member of the NITI Aayog, will confer the degrees, they added.

The JNU Students' Union has appealed to the JNU community to boycott the convocation, accusing vice-chancellor Jagadesh Kumar of "muzzling their democratic rights".

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Hollywood star Johnny Depp's "City of Lies" crime-thriller movie, directed by Brad Furman, has been pulled off its September 7 release date.

The film based on the true story behind the investigation into the murder of rap star Notorious B.I.G, also stars Forest Whitaker.

Global Road, which acquired the movie's original distributor Open Road last summer, has not set a new date for the project, reported Deadline.

The film was set to hit screens on what would have been the 46th birthday of the iconic rapper, aka Biggie Smalls, who was gunned down in 1997 in a drive-by in Los Angeles.

In the movie, Depp plays LAPD detective Russell Poole, and Whitaker is the journalist looking into the unsolved murder, which came six months after the death of Smalls' rap rival Tupac Shakur.

The film is pulled from release a month after Depp was sued by a location manager involved in the production who said the actor punched him.

The 10-claim suit, which also names Furman and producers Miriam Segal, Good Film Productions and Depp's Infinitum Nihil, seeks damages for hostile work environment, retaliation, and wrongful termination among the claims.

Depp has faced a number of legal and financial woes, recently granting a wide-ranging interview to Rolling Stone that showcased the actor's decline. Last month, he settled a lawsuit with his former managers who had accused the actor of spending money at an unsustainable rate.

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Journalists in Bangladesh today gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest those involved in attacks on some of their colleagues while covering the unprecedented protests by the students over road safety, according to media reports.

At least seven photojournalists, including an Associated Press (AP) photographer, were injured in attacks with sharp weapons, sticks and iron rods by youths wearing helmets at Dhanmondi, Jigatala and Science Laboratory areas on Sunday, while covering the protests.

Thousands of students brought parts of the Bangladesh capital to a standstill after two teenagers were killed by a speeding bus on July 29.

A large number of journalists and photojournalists also gathered in front of the Jatiya Press Club here this morning and formed a human chain in protest against the attacks, the Daily Star reported.

"Journalists gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government for arresting those who attacked some their colleagues during the ongoing student movement seeking safe roads. Otherwise, they will launch tougher programmes from August 11," President of Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Molla Jalal was quoted as saying while addressing protesting scribes at the Jatiya Press Club.

They demanded the government to identify and arrest those involved in attacks on journalists after analysing the video footages.

"I am urging the information minister and home minister to sit with the journalists and try to identify those who played a role in the attacks and ensure they are punished," BFUJ general secretary Shaban Mahmud was quoted as saying in the Daily Star.

A number of journalists also formed a human chain at the SAARC Fountain in Karwan Bazar area.

It is alleged that students associated with the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) which is associated with the ruling Awami League and the Bangladesh Juba League (BJL) -- the ruling party's youth front, were involved in attacks on journalists, media reports said.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader has asked journalists to come up with clear evidence that the BCL was involved in the attacks on their colleagues.

"Tell me specifically who from Chhatra League were involved? Please give me a list," he told reporters during a press conference at the party chief's office at Dhanmondi yesterday.

He refuted allegations that members of the ruling party's student wing were involved in the attacks on the journalists in the Dhanmondi area on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the police has arrested 11 people for the violence during the unprecedented protests by the students over road safety.

"Police have registered 27 cases and the number of arrestees and cases would rise," Md Muntasirul Islam, a deputy commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police was quoted as saying by the bdnews24.com.

Six people were detained over student-police clashes at Shahbagh yesterday.

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A Hyderabad court will pronounce on August 27 its judgement against four alleged Indian Mujahideen operatives for triggering twin bomb blasts in August 2007 that left 42 people dead in the city.

"After completion of arguments and counter-arguments today, Sessions Judge Srinivas Rao posted the case for judgement on August 27," Special Public Prosecutor C Seshu Reddy told PTI.

The trial against the four accused - Anique Shafiq Syed, Mohammed Sadiq, Akbar Ismail Choudhary and Ansar Ahmed Badhsah Sheikh - was moved to a courtroom inside Cherlapalli Central Prison in Hyderabad from a courtroom at Nampally court complex in June.

The counter-intelligence wing of Telangana Police had filed three chargesheets against the four men.

In August 2013, the second Metropolitan Sessions Judge's court framed the charges against the "IM" operatives.

They were charged under Section 302 (murder) and other relevant provisions of the IPC and sections of the Explosive Substances Act in connection with the blasts on August 25, 2007, and also with regard to an unexploded bomb found under a foot-over bridge in Dilsuknagar.

The four men were arrested by Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad in October 2008 and later taken into custody by Gujarat Police. They are lodged in Cherlapalli Central Prison.

Nearly 170 witnesses were examined and cross-examined during the trial.

The blast at a popular eatery, Gokul Chat, killed 32 people, while 10 more died at the open-air theatre at Lumbini Park, a few metres from the state secretariat.

More than 50 people were injured in the near-simultaneous blasts.

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Justice K M Joseph took oath as the judge of the Supreme Court today along with Justices Indira Banerjee and Vineet Saran amid a row with the Centre over his seniority being lowered on his elevation.

The elevation of Justice Joseph put an end to a protracted stand-off between the Centre and the judiciary but the former's decision to lower his seniority created a fresh controversy despite his name being first recommended months before the other two judges.

Justice Joseph, who as the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court had quashed the imposition of President's Rule by the NDA government in the hill state in 2016 when it was ruled by the Congress, was sworn in after Justices Banerjee and Saran.

While Justice Banerjee was the Chief Justice of Madras High Court, Justice Saran was the Chief Justice of the Odisha High Court.

Justice Banerjee is the eighth woman judge in the Supreme Court since Independence. The apex court will now for the first time in its history have three sitting women judges--the others being justices R Banumathi and Indu Malhotra.

Apex court sources said several judges including members of the collegium lodged a protest yesterday with Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra over the seniority issue involving Justice Joseph. However, in the "informal" meeting of the judges yesterday, sources said it was decided that the oath-taking ceremony should first take place before their concerns could be addressed.

Except for Justice Ranjan Gogoi, a member of the apex court collegium who was on leave, others had "informally" deliberated on the Centre's decision to lower the seniority of Justice K M Joseph, the sources said.

The CJI, who heads the collegium, assured the judges that he would consult Justice Gogoi who is the senior most after him and take up the issue with the Centre, the sources added.

The swearing-in ceremony started at 10.30 am in the CJI's courtroom with Justice Banerjee the first to take oath followed by Justice Saran and then Justice Joseph.

The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Justice Misra in a packed courtroom in the presence of all the judges, law officers and advocates.

Family members of the three judges were also present.

With the appointment of the three judges, the total strength of the apex court goes up to 25 against the sanctioned strength of 31.

The Law Ministry on August 2 forwarded Justice Joseph's file to the President for his assent. The apex court collegium on July 16 had reiterated its January 10 recommendation to elevate him as the judge of the Supreme Court.

The warrants of appointment of the three judges were signed by the President on August 3 and in the Centre's notification Justice Joseph's name was mentioned at serial number three.

Apex court judges including Justice J Chelameswar (since retired), Justice Kurian Joseph and M B Lokur had taken exception in the past to the Centre's stand to first delay Justice K M Joseph's appointment and then sending it back for reconsideration.

The Centre yesterday maintained that it went purely by the "time tested" principle of high court seniority list by putting at third position the seniority of Justice Joseph.

It had also said that none of the three judges will become chief justice of India as there are other SC judges who have been elevated to the apex court earlier and will retire later.

Convention dictates that the seniority of the judges is determined in accordance with the order of names notified by the government.

On January 10, the collegium recommended the name of Justice Joseph, along with that of senior advocate Indu Malhotra, for elevation to the apex court.

However, the government returned Justice Joseph's name for reconsideration and went ahead with the appointment of Justice Malhotra.

On May 16, the collegium had in-principle reiterated the decision to recommend Justice Joseph's name for elevation to the apex court. The recommendation was sent to the government in July and it was accepted.

The collegium's January 10 resolution, when Justice Joseph's name was recommended for elevation, said "he stands at Sl. No. 45 in the combined seniority of High Court Judges on all-India basis".

According to the July 16 resolution of the collegium, Justice Banerjee stood at Sl. No. 4 and Justice Saran stood at Sl. No. 5 in the combined seniority of high court judges on all-India basis.

Justice Joseph became a high court judge on October 14, 2004 and was elevated as a chief justice of high court on July 31, 2014. He will retire on June 16, 2023 as an apex court judge.

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Justice K M Joseph, who as Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court had set aside the NDA government's decision to impose President's Rule in the state in 2016, was today sworn in as a judge of the Supreme Court.

Justice Joseph, 60, took oath amid a row with the Centre over his seniority being lowered on his elevation.

He was sworn in as the apex court judge in the order of seniority as notified by the Centre, in which his name was placed at number three after justices Indira Banerjee and Vineet Saran.

The issue of elevation of Justice Joseph to the top court had been a bone of contention between the Centre and the Supreme court collegium, which had recommended his name for elevation way back on January 10 along with senior woman advocate Indu Malhotra.

The Centre had returned the recommendation back to the apex court collegium for reconsideration on various grounds, including that he ranked 45th in the overall seniority list of high court judges and there will be over representation of relatively smaller Kerala High Court in the Supreme Court.

It cleared the name of Malhotra, who was sworn as the apex court judge on April 27.

The collegium on May 16 in-principle reiterated the decision to recommend Justice Joseph's name for elevation to the apex court. The recommendation was sent to the government in July and it was accepted.

A fresh row over alleged lowering of seniority of Justice Joseph came to fore when a few Supreme Court judges decided to take up the issue with the CJI in an informal meeting over tea yesterday.

However, highly-placed sources told PTI that nothing much could be done at this stage and the concerns raised by a few apex court judges would be discussed after the three judges are sworn in as per the notification.

Apex court judges including Justice J Chelameswar (since retired), Justice Kurian Joseph and M B Lokur had taken exception in past to Centre's stand to first delay the appointment and then sending it back for reconsideration.

Justice Joseph became a high court judge on October 14, 2004, and he was elevated as a chief justice of a high court on July 31, 2014. He will retire on June 16, 2023 as an apex court judge.

Justice Joseph did his schooling from Kendriya Vidyalaya in Kochi and New Delhi. He later attended Loyola College in Chennai and Government Law College, Ernakulam.

He enrolled as a lawyer in 1982 in Delhi and started practice, but later in 1983 shifted his practice to Kerala High Court.

Justice Joseph is the son of former Supreme Court judge Justice K K Mathew.

Justice Mathew had served in the apex court from 1971 to 1976.

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Kalpataru Power Transmission Ltd (KPTL) today said its consolidated net profit rose by 86 per cent to Rs 88.6 crore in the quarter ended June of the current fiscal.

The company's consolidated net profit stood at Rs 47.6 crore in the corresponding quarter of 2017-18, a BSE filing said.

According to the statement, the revenues increased by 9 per cent to Rs 2,083.7 crore in the quarter from Rs 1,919.2 crore in the year ago period.

The company had an order book of Rs 13,742 crore as on June 30 this year. Its order inflow for the first quarter increased by 27 per cent to Rs 2,698 crore.

It has secured new orders or notification of award of Rs 900 crore including two orders in Southern Railway division of Rs 776 crore from RVNL and orders for transmission line, substation and tower supply in overseas market of Rs 124 crore.

The KPTL's arm JMC Projects (India) Ltd also posted 22 per cent growth in its standalone net profit at Rs 26.6 crore in the first quarter compared to the year ago period. It had an order book of Rs 9,814 crore as on June 30, 2018.

Manish Mohnot, Managing Director and CEO, KPTL said in the statement, "We continue to focus and deliver on profitable growth for both KPTL and JMC. Our current order book visibility provides us confidence of achieving a 15 per cent growth for 2018-19 for both KPTL and JMC. We continue to stay bullish on railways and water sectors in both domestic and international markets."



The KPTL is engaged in power transmission and distribution, oil & gas pipeline, railways, infrastructure development and warehousing & logistics business. The company is currently executing several contracts in India, Africa, Middle East, CIS, SAARC and Far East.

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: The CPI today urged the Tamil Nadu government to deal in a "dignified way," DMK's demand for allotment of space at the Marina beach here for burying its late leader M Karunanidhi, saying it should "not create any hurdles" in this regard.

CPI National Secretary D Raja condoled the death of Karunanidhi and heaped praise on the 'fighter.'



Referring to the AIADMK government's refusal to provide DMK space at the Marina Beach to bury Karunanidhi, Raja said the late leader should be given an "honourable last journey."



"DMK as a party and Karunanidhi's family requested for space at the Marina. The state government must deal with the issue in a dignified way, accepting the request," he told PTI.

The government "should not create hurdles...it will be a dishonor for such a person," he said.

"I appeal to the state government to accept the request of the DMK and the family," he added.

A controversy erupted tonight after the Tamil Nadu government rejected the opposition DMK's demand for allotting space on the Marina beach for the burial of Karunanidhi and offered space near the memorials of former Chief Ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamaraj.

Heaping encomiums on Karunanidhi, Raja said he was "one of the outstanding leaders" not only in Tamil Nadu, but across India.

"The demise of Kalaignar (Karunanidhi) is a huge shock to everybody. He was one of the outstanding leaders, not only in Tamil Nadu, but in India. He was a fighter for social justice, promotion of Tamil language and culture, state rights and autonomy," the CPI leader said.

Raja recalled his "close association" with Karunanidhi and hailed his contribution in government formation during the UPA regime.

Karunanidhi was a "great" writer, orator, poet, dramatist and a "multi-dimensional personality," he added.

"He leaves behind a great legacy which will inspire a generation," Raja said.

Karunanidhi passed away here today after a prolonged illness.

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The Karnataka government has declared one day state mourning tomorrow as a mark of respect to departed DMK leader M Karunanidhi.

During this period there would be no official programmes, a government notification said.

The national flag would fly at half mast atop all government buildings, it said



However, there would be no holiday for schools and colleges tomorrow, it said.

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy is expected to leave for Chennai tomorrow morning to pay his last respects, sources at the Chief Minister's office said.

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A script writer par excellence, M Karunanidhi began penning scripts for plays as a 20-year-old, his works becoming a vehicle for propagating the principles of the Dravidian movement.

Age did not wither his pithy prose and as he crossed 90, he wrote his last script for a television serial based on reformist Hindu saint Ramanuja, who strove for an egalitarian society.

Scripting dialogues for the television soap based on the 11-th century Vaishnavite saint in 2015, Karunanidhi had praised the saint for throwing his weight behind the oppressed and backward classes.

A voracious reader and prolific writer, Karunanidhi took a keen interest in Tamil literature, poetry and drama and even as a 20-year-old had enacted a reformist drama "Pazhaniappan.'



As a teenager, he ran a handwritten magazine "Manava Nesan" in 1941.

In 1947, Karunanidhi wrote the screenplay and dialogue for the blockbuster 'Rajakumari', the debut movie of M G Ramachandran, who later became his arch political rival and founded AIADMK.

Little did he know that his dialogues in 'Parasakthi' (1952), which debutant 'Sivaji' Ganesan delivered with panache, would become a big hit and aid in catapulting his political career as well.

Besides a host of plays like 'Manimagudam', he has penned screenplays and dialogues for over 50 movies and scripted the story for several of them.

'Manohara' (1954), 'Malaikallan' (1954), 'Rangon Radha' (1956) were among the movies in which he was involved as a screenwriter.

In addition to penning dialogues, he had also written stories for movies, including successful films like 'Marudanattu Ilavarasi', 'Mandiri Kumari (both 1950), Tirumbipar (1953) and Arasilangkumari (1961).

'Mani Makudam', 'Marakka Mudiyuma', 'Avan Pithana', 'Pookkari' and 'Needhikku Thandanai' were among his several other movies.

A noted Tamil author, Karunanidhi has over 100 works to his credit, including poems and novels.

His novels include Romapuri Pandian, Thenpandi Singam, Nenjukku Needhi (his autobiography and commentary on contemporary politics), Sanga Thamizh, Kuraloviam, Ponnar Shankar, Thirukkural Urai.

His stage plays include 'Manimagudam', 'Ore Ratham', 'Thooku Medai,' 'Kagithapoo' and 'Silapathikarum.

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Ailing DMK president M Karunanidhi is extremely critical and unstable, a city hospital where he is being treated said today, as frenzied multitude of party supporters gathered outside the facility with prayers on their lips.

"There has been significant decline in the clinical condition of Kalaignar M Karunanidhi over the last few hours. Despite maximum medical support, his vital organ functions continue to deteriorate.

"His condition is extremely critical and unstable," Kauvery Hospital Executive Director Dr Aravindan Selvaraj said in a bulletin.

Karunanidhi was admitted to the hosptial on July 28 following a dip in his blood pressure. He is in the ICU ever since.

Hundreds of people have gathered outside the hospital in downtown Alwarpet, some of whom have kept vigil since yesterday evening after the word spread about a marked decline in the 94-year-old leader's condition.

Tears rolling down their cheeks, some were seen mumbling prayers for their beloved leader, while others feverishly chanted "Ezunthu Vaa Thalaiva (arise leader and come)."



A man was seen beating himself on the chest and face in utter desperation. A woman in the crowd fainted as others rushed to her help, sprinkling water on her face.

A large number of people carried DMK's red-and-black flags and photographs of Karunanidhi, a five-time chief minister of the state whose public life has spanned over seven decades.

As concerns over Karunanidhi's condition mounted, his son and DMK working president M K Stalin called on Chief Minister K Palaniswami at his residence and was closeted with him for some time, officials said.

Palaniswami also held a meeting with top officials where he reviewed the situation.

Security has been enhanced at the hospital and the Gopalapuram residence of the nonagenarian leader.

A general alert has been sounded across the state and security tightened at vital installations, officials said.

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DMK president M Karunanidhi continued to be critical today even as hundreds of his supporters have swarmed the Kauvery Hospital praying for the well-being of the leader.

His son and DMK working president M K Stalin called on Chief Minister K Palaniswami at his residence and was closeted with him for some time, officials said.

The hospital is likely to issue a bulletin on the condition of the 94-year-old leader.

Chief Minister Palaniswami also held a meeting with top officials and he reviewed the situation.

Kauvery hospital had said yesterday evening that Karunanidhi's condition had "declined" and keeping his vital organs functioning remained a "challenge". It had said the next 24 hours could be crucial.

Meanwhile, hundreds of DMK cadres have collected outside the hospital in downtown Alwarpet and the crowd is swelling by the minute.

Many were seen weeping and chanting slogans hailing the leader. A woman supporter was seen fainting and being helped by others who sprinkled water on her face.

Security has been enhanced at the hospital and the Gopalapuram residence of the nonagenarian leader.

As concerns over Karunanidhi's condition mounted, a general alert was sounded across the state. Security was stepped at major installations.

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DMK chief M Karunanidhi, a colossus in Tamil Nadu politics, poet, columnist and script writer, who left an indelible imprint on the state's public life for over five decades, died today, setting the stage for a late night courtroom drama over where he shall be buried.

The 94-year-old leader breathed his last at the Kauvery Hospital in downtown Chennai at 6.10 p.m after waging a grim battle for life for 11 days, the hospital said.

He had not made any public appearance for about two years due to failing health.

Within minutes of Karunanidhi's death, a huge row erupted after the state's AIADMK government rejected the demand of the DMK, its long-standing political rival in state politics, for land on the famed sands of the Marina beach where he could be buried.

Wasting no time, DMK's counsel P Wilson and A Sarvanan rushed to the residence of H G Ramesh, the Acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, with a plea to direct the state government to revoke its decision denying permission for Karunanidhi's burial and erection of a memorial to him on the beach.

Their plea was granted and Justice Ramesh and his fellow judge S S Sundar began hearing the petition minutes before midnight.

The judges heard the arguments by counsel for the DMK and the state government before adjourning the matter around 1.15 a.m for resumed hearing at 8 in the morning.

The DMK counsel wanted to know the legal ground on which its demand was rejected following which the advocates for the government pleaded for time till morning to file a counter affidavit which the court allowed.

In a twist to the late night proceedings, unprecedented in Tamil Nadu's legal history, two of the petitioners who had moved the court against late chief minister J Jayalalithaa's burial at the Marina and construction of a memorial there, withdrew their applications.

One of them, advocate S Duraisamy, said the claim of the government that the memorial to Karunanidhi's mentor and former chief minister C N Annadurai facing the Marina beach, where the DMK sought land for its leader's burial, was in an ecologically sensitive zone, was "misleading".

He told reporters outside the Acting Chief Justice's residence that it was on the banks of the Cooum river close to the beach but not in the eco-sensitive zone like the memorials of Jayalalithaa and former AIADMK chief minister the late M G Ramachandran.

Similarly, K Balu of PMK also withdrew his petition seeking the court's direction against use of the Marina as a burial ground.

Earlier in the day, another PIL filed in the Madras High Court seeking to restrain the Corporation of Greater Chennai from permitting any burial of bodies on the Marina beach was dismissed as withdrawn.

Hours before the unsavoury courtroom saga unfolded, Karunanidhi was declared dead by the hospital where he was undergoing treatment since his admission on July 28 when his blood pressure had dipped.

"With deep anguish we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 pm. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond.

"We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family members and fellow Tamilians worldwide," a press release by Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Executive Director of Kauvery Hospital, said.

President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned Karunanidhi's death.

"Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers," Kovind tweeted.

Modi said Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress.

"Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," Modi said in a series of tweets.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi also took to Twitter to condole Karunanidhi's death.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," he said on Twitter.

Both Modi and Gandhi, besides a host of other leaders are expected to arrive here tomorrow to pay their last respects to the departed doyen of Tamil Nadu politics.

Soon after Karunanidhi's death, his son and DMK working president M K Stalin despatched his emissary and the party's deputy leader in the state assembly Duraimurugan to Chief Minister K Palaniswamy requesting him to allot land in the mausoleum complex of Annadurai.

Soon afterwards, the government issued a statement saying it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications."



Hence, the government is prepared to allot a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

Some reports said the government was reluctant about allotting space for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina as he was not a sitting chief minister.

Former chief minister M G Ramachandran and his protegee J Jayalalitha were buried at the Marina beach and memorials to them were erected there. Both were bitter foes of Karunanidhi in politics.

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Departed DMK chief M Karunanidhi gifted his residence at upscale Gopalapuram here in 2010 for setting up a hospital for the poor.

On the eve of his 86th birthday, he donated it to Annai Anjugam Trust, (named after his mother) to run a hospital for the poor after his and his wife's lifetime.

In 1968, he registered the house in the name of his sons Alagiri, Stalin and Tamilarasu and after getting their consent in 2009, the DMK veteran had donated it to the trust.

Former union minister A Raja and noted Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu are among the trustees of the Trust.

Karunanidhi purchased the house in 1955.

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The convict in a rape and murder of a minor girl in Punjab's Kasur city, which sparked outrage and protests across Pakistan, has been given death penalty by an anti-terrorism court for two more similar cases, according to a media report.

Imran Ali, 24 who was involved in at least nine incidents of rape-cum-murder of minors, including the brutal rape and murder of the minor girl in Kasur which he had confessed to during her murder investigation, Dawn newspaper reported.

The anti-terrorism court (ATC) yesterday handed out the death penalty to Ali after the prosecution established the role of Ali in the rape and murder charges framed in the cases, the report said.

He is currently incarcerated and on death-row for the rape and murder of the minor Kasur girl.

He was also ordered to pay a fine of Rs 1,500,000 and Rs 75,000 under the compensation determined by the court.

Failure to pay the fines will result in an additional six months of imprisonment, the court said.

On Saturday, Ali was given death sentence on 12 counts for the rape and murder of three other minor girls. Three more cases remain pending against him.

Earlier this year, the rape and murder of the minor girl in Kasur had sparked outrage and protests across the country.

Ali was nabbed by authorities on January 23 following a DNA-match.

He was found to be a serial killer and had confessed to his crimes.

On February 17, he was given a death sentence for abduction, rape and murder in the Kasur girl case.

He was then awarded four counts of the death penalty, one life term, 7-year jail term and Rs 4.1 million in fines back in February for raping and murdering the minor Kasur girl.

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Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today held a review meeting on mohalla clinics, operation theatres and medical equipments in hospitals owned by the Delhi government.

According to a statement issued by the government, the chief minister was informed that 426 new sites have been finalised for mohalla clinics.

Presently, 187 such clinics are functional in the national capital.

It said Kejriwal also asked the hospitals to make all equipments 100 per cent functional by August 31, barring some exception which can't be done by the end of this month due to logistical and other issues.

The statement said the chief minister was told by the health department that there were 190 operation theatres in government hospitals, out of which 171 are functional.

"The chief minister sought the status of the other 19 operation theatres which were non-functional and how soon would they be made functional," it added.

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Kenya and Tanzania today marked the 20th anniversary of devastating US embassy bombings in Nairobi and Dar Es Salaam, which signalled Al-Qaeda's emergence as a deadly player on the global stage.

In Nairobi, a solemn ceremony reunited families of the victims and officials at a memorial park in the centre of the Kenyan capital, created on the site of the US embassy.

The diplomatic mission was devastated by a huge explosion on the morning of August 7, 1998, followed minutes later by another massive blast which wrecked the US embassy in Tanzania.

A total of 224 people were killed in the attacks and around 5,000 injured -- mostly African citizens.

"Twenty years ago today, evil showed its terrible face in Kenya and Tanzania," US Ambassador to Kenya Robert Godec told the Nairobi gathering.

"In the middle of a busy Friday morning, Al-Qaeda terrorists exploded bombs outside the US embassies here in Nairobi and in Dar es Salaam."



"In an awful moment, the lives of thousands changed forever as did the lives of their families and friends," he added.

The Nairobi Chamber Choir gave performed the Kenyan and American national anthems, then participants held candles while the names of the victims were read out to the sound of a solo violin.

"On that day, the perpetrator's -- Al-Qaeda -- appetite and ambition for large-scale attacks grew," said Martin Kimani, head of Kenya's National Counter Terrorism Centre.

"Since then, large parts of the world have endured repeated attacks by terrorists," he added.

A similar memorial service was scheduled to take place in Dar Es Salaam. The twin attacks introduced the world to Al-Qaeda's leader Osama bin Laden three years before the September 11 attacks in New York would make him a household name.

Almost 3,000 people died when hijacked passenger aircraft hit the Pentagon in Washington and destroyed the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center, the symbol of New York's financial wealth.

In May 2011, the White House announced that Bin Laden had been killed in Pakistan by US special forces.

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Kerala Governor P Sathasivam and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan today expressed grief over the death of DMK president and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi.

Sathasivam in a message said Karunanidhi was a perfect blend of statesmanship and creativity.

"Each welfare measure he introduced as CM reflected a strong desire for social justice, urge to uplift the backward classes and downtrodden, and his unflinching faith in secularism and unmatched richness of Tamil heritage," the governor said.

"His is a loss beyond words," he added.

Vijayan said Karunanidhi was one of the greats of Indian politics, but his contributions were not limited to

He was a man of letters who enriched the Tamil language with poems, novels, screenplays and plays, Vijayan said.

"The legacy of the great leader will live on," he said, extending his condolences to the bereaved family and people of Tamil Nadu.

State opposition leader Ramesh Chennithala was among those who expressed grief over the death.

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Three startups mentored by the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) have bagged a seed funding of up to Rs 25 lakh each in the India Innovation Growth Programme (IIGP) at New Delhi.

This would enable them to scale up their operations and accelerate market penetration, a press release said.

The Kerala-based startups- Genrobotic Innovations, Irov Technologies and Sastra Robotics- were among the 16 winners, who will also get an opportunity to undergo an incubation process along with mentoring support.

IIGP 2018 edition was a combined initiative of Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, Lockheed Martin, and Tata Trusts.

This programme aims to support the Government of India's missions of "Start-up India" and "Make in India."



It provides an innovation ecosystem to enable innovators and entrepreneurs to develop technology-based solutions.

The 16 winners were selected from top 50 innovators, chosen from 3,000 applicants.

The selected innovators were given an opportunity to attend a boot camp conducted by IIM-Ahmedabad, after which 16 were picked.

Out of the nine startups from Kerala that participated in the event held last week, seven were supported by the KSUM.

Genrobotic Innovations Pvt Ltd, which provides robotic solutions for sewer cleaning and other manual works, was founded by Arun George, Nikhil NP, Rashid Bin Abdulla, and Vimal Govind MK in 2015.

Irov Technologies Pvt Ltd uses its underwater drone EyeROV to inspect critical underwater infrastructures.

Kochi-based Sastra Robotics India Pvt Ltd is a startup founded by Aronin P in 2012, whose product SR-Dimenzio helps perform human-arm actions for high-risk tasks requiring precision.

These startups would now get an opportunity to test their products in the market with the help of leading scientists, technology experts, entrepreneurs and investors partnered with the programme.

KSUM is the nodal agency of Government of Kerala for entrepreneurship development and incubation activities in the state.

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The Centre today informed Parliament that it has asked states to take stringent action against those who have allegedly duped job seekers through an agency named 'Kisan Seva Kendra'.

In a written reply to Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Agriculture Parshottam Rupala said the government has received complaints that Kisan Seva Kendra has allegedly duped job seekers in the name of Kisan Call Centre scheme.

The government has asked states to investigate the matter and take stringent action against the fraudsters, he said.

"The complainants have also been asked to file FIR with local authorities. An alert has also been uploaded on the department's website as a caution to the general public," he said.

Sharing about the agency's modus operandi, the minister said as reported by complainants, the agency issued advertisements having strong resemblance with the government's scheme Kisan Call Centre.

Fake website addresses with government logos were given to lend credence to such bogus advertisements. The gullible youth were asked to contact on a given telephone number and a telephonic interview was then carried out, he said.

Thereafter, the candidate was declared selected and he/she was asked to deposit a security amount in a given bank account number.

A fake offer letter was issued simultaneously, he added.

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Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena today mourned the death of DMK chief N Karunanidhi.

"I am deeply saddened by the death of former Chief Minister and senior political leader Karunanidhi," he said in a tweet, extending his condolences to the bereaved family and party cadres.

US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster, in a tweet, said, "Karunanidhi will be remembered for years of public service to the state."



"On behalf of the United States Mission in India, I wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of former Chief Minister Karunanidhi and the people of Tamil Nadu," he said.

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Leaders across the political spectrum including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi today condoled the death of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi, hailing him as a deep-rooted mass leader and harbinger of of deprived.

President Ram Nath Kovind called Karunanidhi a "doyen of our public life" who had few peers while Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said the Tamil leader left a mark of his own during his long public life of about 80 years.

Karunanidhi, who dominated the state's for over six decades along with his arch-rivals MG Ramachandran first and then with J Jayalalithaa, died at a hospital in Chennai this evening. He was 94.

Prime Minister Modi described him as a prolific thinker and a deep-rooted mass leader who stood for regional aspiration and national progress.

"Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadu's voice was effectively heard," Modi tweeted.

Congress president Gandhi said the DMK leader strode the stage of Tamil like a colossus for six decades, adding, India has lost a "great son" in his demise.

Gandhi would be travelling to Chennai tomorrow, along with other senior Congress leaders, to pay homage to Karunanidhi and participate in his last rites.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," he said on Twitter.

BJP chief Amit Shah said Karunanidhi had an impressive life journey, starting as a screen writer in Tamil film industry to being five term Chief Minister of the state. "No one can forget his struggle during Emergency."



JD-S supremo H D Deve Gowda said the Tamil leader was a "doyen of our public life and that his opposition to emergency will always be remembered.

"Today, India lost one of its greatest sons. And Tamil Nadu lost his father figure," West Bengal Chief Miniser Mamata Banerjee said before leaving for Chennai to pay her last respect to him.

CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury said Karunanidhi rose to be a political and intellectual leader championing social justice and uplift of the poor and marginalised.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh said the country has lost a versatile genius who was an outstanding artist, an eminent writer and a true leader who always stood for the cause of the poor and downtrodden classes of the society.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said Karunanidhi was the repository of federalism in India.

"Dr. Karunanidhi was the harbinger of politics of deprived and politics of the poor in the state of Tamil Nadu. Dr. Karunanidhi represented scientific temper and creation of a caste less society," he said.

Another party leader Mallikarjun Kharge described Karunanidhi as champion of Tamils and an astute political leader who never lost an election in a career spanning six decades.

"He paved path for youngsters of the state to follow the Dravidian philosophy and he will always be known for his contribution to this ideology," said Kharge.

BJP veteran L K Advani described Karunanidhi as a doyen of Indian politics and a man of committed ideals.

"He was a doyen of Indian politics who had started his career after independence. He was a man of committed ideals, he excelled in the field of politics and had also made valuable contributions to the Tamil literature," Advani said in a statement.

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Expressing grief over DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi's death, former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda today said he has lost his "elder brother."



The nation has lost a "stalwart", Gowda said in his condolence message, recalling his association with theformer Tamil Nadu Chief Minister for over five decades.

"Karunanidhi's role in me becoming the Prime Minister was huge," the former Prime Minister said, adding that his death is a "great loss" to the country and personally for him.

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said in Karunanidhi's death, "we have lost a unique personality" inIndian politics, and Tamil Nadu a "visionary leader".

Terming him a "legend", the chief minister said"Karunanidhi strived for the development of Tamil Nadu throughout his life and built a stronghold for regional party DMK."



"I had met him several times. Every time he made me understand the importance of regional parties.The popular schemes he implemented for the downtrodden people are replicated in various states today," Kumaraswamy added.

State BJP chief and former chief minister B S Yeddyurappa said a leader, whoserved Tamil Nadu as chief minister five times, Karunanidhi would always remain in the minds and hearts of thepeople.

Yeddyurappa recalled Karunanidhi's contribution in fostering the bond between people of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu by installing Kannada poet and philosopher Sarvajna's statue in Chennai and unveiling Tamil poet-saint Thiruvalluvar's statue in Bengaluru during his ChiefMinistership.

Karnataka Pradesh Congress Chief Dinesh Gundu Rao also expressed grief.

"Express my deepest condolences on the demise of #KalaignarKarunanidhi. A towering personality in Tamil Nadu who also played a significant role at the national level. A true inheritor of the Dravidian movement.

TN politicswill never be the same again.

#RIP," he said in a tweet.

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Amid a controversy over AIADMK government's rejection of DMK's demand for giving space for M Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina Beach in Chennai, Congress President Rahul Gandhi today said the DMK patriarch deserves a space there like former chief minister J Jayalalithaa.

Gandhi said he was sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be "magnanimous" in this time of grief.

"Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief," Gandhi said on Twitter.

Gandhi's remarks came after a controversy erupted tonight following the Tamil Nadu government's rejection of the opposition DMK's demand for allotting space on the Marina beach for the burial of Karunanidhi.

The AIADMK offered space near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamraj.

DMK working president M K Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina.

Stalin had also met the chief minister hours before his father's death.

A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications".

Karunanidhi died in Chennai today after waging a grim battle for life for 11 days.

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A court today issued summons to ICICI bank's Managing Director Chanda Kochhar and others in connection with case involving a joint account, after the manager of the branch concerned did not appear before it.

Chief Judicial Magistrate Anand Prakash Singh fixed August 16 for their appearance.

The court further issued a bailable warrant against branch manager Rubi Agrawal of ICICI bank's Gomtinagar branch because she did not turn up in the court despite service of summons.

The court passed the orders on a complaint of a local lawyer Raje Bhasin.

The lawyer said that he had a joint account in the bank along with his mother, who died on April 11 last year.

Bhasin said the bank seized the account and did not allow him to withdraw the money from the account.

The court found that prima facie offences under sections 420 (cheating) and 406 (criminal breach of trust) of the Indian Penal Code are made out in the matter.

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The family of a youth, who was shot dead by CRPF guards at the residence of NC leader Farooq Abdullah, here last week, today demanded arrest of the personnel involved in his "cold-blooded murder" and registration of an FIR against them.

The city administration had already ordered a magisterial probe into the incident, described by police as a "security breach".

The youth's killing had triggered massive protests by his relatives. Various political parties, including the BJP and Congress, had demanded a thorough probe into the incident.

According to the police statement, Syeed Murfad Shah, 25, the resident of Chinore locality here, allegedly crashed his private car into the gate of heavily fortified residence of Farooq Abdullah and his son Omar Abdullah at Bhatindi on August 4, attempted to snatch a weapon from a CRPF officer and entered into a scuffle with the guards before being shot dead inside the house.

He hit the CRPF officer at the head with a flower pot and injured him, it added.

"The magisterial inquiry is of no consequences and it is merely a time buying exercise We demand registration of an FIR against the personnel involved in his cold-blooded murder and who posed their pictures on social media," one of the deceased's kin Syed Junaid Hashmi told reporters here.

"He was not carrying any weapon and was not affiliated with any terrorist or separatist organisation. Why gun shots were fired to kill him instead of making any attempt to overpower him and arrest him," he said, adding the family was told that there was no CCTV footage available of the incident.

Hashmi demanded immediate arrest and questioning of the personnel.

Questioning the police version, he asked how Shah managed to reach the lobby of the house when there was no damage to the gate or vehicle which should have been the case if he had driven his vehicle through the closed door.

"It is very difficult to understand how an intruder got access to two former chief ministers lobby the inner private area of their residence. And moreover, why no court of inquiry has been instituted against the CRPF men for breach of security as is being said," he asked.

The sister of the slain youth, Syed Shafia Shah, broke down at the press conference and said "we only want justice for my brother".

Earlier in the day, Farooq Abdullah met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and requested for an impartial enquiry into the circumstances leading to the death of the youth at his residence.

"There are different theories emerging in the media and versions of the family and friends of the deceased young man. Only an impartial enquiry will put to rest all the speculations by bringing the truth to fore," he said after meeting Singh.

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Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief today over the death of Major Kaustubh Ranem who was killed in Jammu and Kashmir during a operation to foil an infiltration bid.

Major Rane was a resident of Bhayander in Thane district of the state.

He and three soldiers were killed while foiling an infiltration bid in north Kashmir's Gurez sector. At least two militants were gunned down in the operation.

"We Salute from Thane for his supreme sacrifice for BharatMata ! He lost his life while foiling infiltration bid in Gurez in Jammu & Kashmir. We stand firm with his family in this hour of grief," the chief minister said in a tweet.

A pall of gloom descended on the Shital Nagar locality in Bhayander in the district, after the of Major Rane's death.

Major Rane was a resident of Hiral Sagar society. He is survived by his aged parents, wife and a two-and-a-half-year old child, a district information official said.

A neighbour said the family members of Rane and the residents of the building are in a state of shock.

The official said Major Rane's father retired as an employee of a Tata firm and his mother as an employee of an educational institute in suburban Borivli.

Rane's wife Kanika and their child have gone to his native village Vaibhavwadi in the Konkan region, and his parents are preparing to leave for the village.

Major Rane had studied in the Holy Cross Convent School in the locality.

The details about the arrival of the major's body and the timing of his funeral are not yet known.

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Around 17 lakh employees of the Maharashtra government began their three-day strike today to press for various demands, including implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission report.

On the first day of the stir, around 63 per cent of the class 3 and class 4 employees remained absent from work, an official said.

Though the unions claimed that the strike was "100 per cent" successful, the government suggested that the services in general remained unaffected.

The unions had yesterday announced that class 3 and class 4 employees of Zilla Parishads, state hospitals, staff working at Mantralaya (secretariat) will participate in the strike.

However, a General Administration Department (GAD) official said today that 70.64 per cent attendance was recorded at Mantralaya at the end of the day.

The attendance registered for class I and class II officers was 83.32 per cent, and that for class III employees 70 per cent. The attendance for class IV officers was 37.28 per cent, he said.

The average attendance for the government employees on field (outside the Mantralaya) was registered at 37.18 per cent today, the official said.

As per information received from the rural health service centres, staffers did not take part in the strike on a large scale, he said.

"Hence no health services were affected," the official said.

He said around 30-40 per cent nursing staff did not show up for work.

Around 20 per cent class IV staffers remained absent.

"For employees who are covered under the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance (MESMA) Act, they had already been notified that the strike has been deemed illegal.

"The provisions of the Act will now be studied and appropriate action will be taken against them," he said.

The official said the government will follow the Centre's policy of "no work, no pay" for the employees not covered under MESMA Act and cut their salaries accordingly.

Earlier in the day, State Government Employees Organisation president Milind Sardeshmukh said the government employees are yet to receive arrears accrued to them since the implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission by the state government.

He claimed that 1.85 lakh posts of class 3 and class 4 employees are lying vacant in Maharashtra.

In a Government Resolution (GR) issued late last night, the government had said the employees' decision to go on strike will be construed as "misbehaviour" and disciplinary action will be taken against them.

Another GR was issued stating that the 7th pay commission will be implemented from January 2019.

The demand of employees for a five-day week and raising the retirement age from 58 years to 60 years will be taken up during Diwali, an official had said last night.

The arrears will be paid in the salaries of employees for August month, as per the GR.

If the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission is delayed, the employees will get the benefit as per the wage structure of the central government employees from January 2019, the government had stated.

Maharashtra Finance Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar said today the government was surprised over the "sudden strike" called by the employees, "as most of their demands have been accepted by the government".

"We have held repeated discussions with the unions representing the striking employees and assured them that their demands will be fulfilled in a time-bound manner. Yet they suddenly chose to go on strike," the minister said.

A release issued by one of the striking unions claimed that "history was achieved today, as the strike was 100 per cent successful".

"Employees in every district held protest marches, 'dharnas' and voiced their displeasure against the government. If the government does not take cognisance of this strike, the employees will then go on an indefinite strike," it said.

Teachers and non-teaching staff of around 800 government-aided schools in Mumbai also went on strike, which affected the functioning of the schools.

In the last night GR, the state government had issued a resolution offering to make payment of dearness allowances into the bank accounts of teachers and non-teaching staff of government-aided schools.

"This decision created a confusion among the teachers whether to go on strike from today or not. Hence, some schools remained open. But this afternoon, we held talks with several leaders from the teaching community and decided to join the strike," Subhash More, executive chairman of Shikshak Bharati, said.

Shikshak Bharati is a government-recognised union of teachers and non-teaching staff in Mumbai region.

Over 10,000 teachers in the region are affiliated with Shikshak Bharati, he claimed.

The Bombay University and College Teachers' Union (BUCTU) announced its support to the three-day long strike.

The BUCTU called upon the teachers in colleges and university to support their colleagues from the non-teaching staff, who will be in this strike and to ensure the strike is not disrupted.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Rs 520-crore Sindhudurg airport in the state is likely to receive international charter flights, besides domestic scheduled services.

The greenfield airport, on which most of the work is completed, is being constructed at Parule Chipi in the Sindhudurg district of the state by IRB Sindhudurg Airport on a design-build-finance-operate-transfer basis for the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation.

"The trial flight at Sindhudurg Airport will be conducted in October. We are also expecting a chartered flight at Sindhudurg from Malta in December," State tourism minister Jaykumar Rawal said after a meeting with his Malta counterpart Konrad Mizzi here today.

Late last month, the civil aviation ministry had said that 80 per cent of the airport construction work was over, while the remaining would be completed by August end.

The work on taxi way, apron and isolation bay has already been completed, it had said.

"We are collaborating with the tourism ministry to attract more Indians to Malta. We will be exploring more details of flights and will also see if Malta could offer the Indian diaspora cheaper route as well to come back to India," said Mizzi.

With a 2,500-metre long runway, the airport will have a capacity to handle 200 departing and 200 arriving passengers during peak hours.

Once functional, Sindhudurg will be the state's 14th airport. At present, it has three functional international and 13 domestic airports.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
As 17 lakh employees of the Maharashtra government went on a three-day strike from today, a Shiv Sena minister has demanded action against them, only to be opposed by a BJP minister.

The Maharashtra Cabinet today discussed the ongoing strike of the state government employees and its impact on essential services.

The cabinet meeting was chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Around 17 lakh employees of the state government are on strike to press for various demands, including implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission report.

At the cabinet meeting, the ministers of the BJP and the Shiv Sena sparred over the action to be taken against the employees, a minister said.

"The cabinet was informed that J J Hospital in Mumbai has postponed all critical surgeries for the next three days and that the patients are facing trouble, as all nursing staff are on strike," he said.

During the discussion, Transport Minister Diwakar Raote of Shiv Sena sought action against the employees which was opposed by Education Minister Vinod Tawde of the BJP.

According to the minister, Tawde said the employees have the right to protest and if action is taken against them, the administration will collapse.

Later speaking to reporters, Raote said he was in favour of taking action against the employees, as they are trying to stall the administration.

"We are passing through a difficult phase. Maratha agitation, incidents of violence, a bandh called by the Maratha Kranti Morcha on August 9 etc. are the major issues.

"In such situation, if 17 lakh employees go on strike and try to stop functioning of the government, how can we spare them? They must be punished," said Raote.

Raote said he suggested to the chief minister that all ministers should remain present in the Mantralaya for one whole day and transfer all the employees on strike after review.

"However, this was opposed by some," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Robust sales across segments helped Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) log a 67 per cent jump in net profit at Rs 1,257 crore for the June quarter.

The company had reported a net profit of Rs 752 crore in the same period last year.

Revenues and other income stood at Rs 13,551 crore, compared with Rs 11,006 crore in the year-ago period.

On the future outlook, the company said a normal monsoon, with a satisfactory temporal and spatial distribution, combined with the recently approved higher MSP for kharif crops, should help support rural consumption further.

"In the farm equipment sector, industry performance has been beyond expectations. But I want to caution that the second quarter of the industry will see a flat growth because Diwali this time is coming late and therefore the sales peak will be in October and November and not in September.

"Other than that we don't see any hiccups in terms of demand. The monsoon appears to be now back on track therefore, our business and industry should do well," said Pawan Goenka, managing director, Mahindra & Mahindra.

The company said global growth backdrop has remained buoyant so far. However, the recently announced and anticipated tariff hike by the US and retaliatory measures by trading partners have increased the likelihood of escalating and sustained trade actions, which could pose risks to global recovery and investments.

Total domestic automotive volume of the company grew 16.2 per cent. The heavy commercial vehicle volume grew 123.4 per cent, resulting in a market share of 5.7 per cent, the Mumbai-based company said.

M&M exported 9,360 vehicles during the June quarter, a growth of 100.2 per cent over the year-ago quarter.

Its domestic tractor sales grew 18.8 per cent and the farm equipment segment's revenue crossed the Rs 5,000-crore mark during the period under review.

When it comes to auto business, the industry has performed quite well, Goenka said adding given how the industry has performed in the first quarter, it is expected to grow in the 12-14 per cent range, against the earlier projections of 9-11 per cent.

Goenka said that all vehicle models except one or two low-volume ones will be able to meet the new safety norms, which are to come into effect in a phased manner.

When it comes to BS-VI, Goenka said since it involves a lot of investment, the company may decide to discontinue some of the low-volumes models beyond March 31, 2020.

On RBI rate hikes, he said that he does not see the recent two successive hikes as a big dampener for auto sales in the September quarter.

"Even one more rate hike, as being anticipated, is unlikely to impact the industry," he said.

Goenka said that it would have been better if the new axle capacity norms were to be implemented from April 2020 as the industry is now occupied in meeting the BS-VI norms.

He also said that the company is planning to invest in the second phase of the Chakan facility.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An Army major and three soldiers were killed during an operation in which they foiled an infiltration bid in Gurez area of North Kashmir, gunning down two of the eight infiltrators, officials said.

Four infiltrators managed to return to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, while two others were believed to have been injured and hiding in the dense forest around the region, they said.

The officials said that there was an intelligence input about an infiltration bid by eight terrorists in Bagtore area of Gurez.

An Army team led by Major Kaustubh Prakash Kumar Rane laid a siege of the area during the night, but were fired by the terrorists who had positioned themselves comfortably in the cover of darkness, they said.

In the encounter, 29-year-old Major Rane and three other soldiers were killed in the terrorist firing. Two of the infiltrating militants were gunned down in the encounter which took place near Govind Nallah of Gurez, which falls in the Bandipore district of North Kashmir, they said.

Besides Major Rane, who hails from Thane district of Mahashtra, others who fell in the line of duty were 26-year-old riflemen Mandeep Singh Rawat, hailing from Kotdwar in Uttrakhand, Hameer Singh hailing from Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand who would have turned 28 on this Independence Day, and 25-year-old gunner Vikram Jeet Singh from Tepla village of Ambala district in Haryana.

The operation was continuing, they said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An major and three soldiers were killed while foiling an infiltration bid in north Kashmir's Gurez sector, officials said on Tuesday. At least two militants were gunned down in the operation, they said.

The encounter between the Army's patrolling party and the infiltrating group took place at Govind Nallah in Gurez sector of Bandipore district.

The bodies of two militants could be seen from a distance while two more are believed to have been killed, they said.

Further reinforcements were rushed to the encounter site.

The deceased have been identified as Major K P Rane, hawaldars Jamie Singh and Vikramjeet and rifleman Mandeep.

Initial reports said a group of eight was trying to infiltrate into the country. Of them, four ran back to Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, officials said.
Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said today that Indonesia has handed over a yacht allegedly bought with money stolen from the multibillion-dollar looting of a state investment fund.

In a Facebook video, Mahathir thanked Indonesia's government and President Joko Widodo for returning the USD 250 million yacht, Equanimity, which was seized by Indonesia off Bali in February in cooperation with the US FBI.

"We believe that this yacht belongs to the Malaysian government because it was bought with Malaysia's money that was stolen," Mahathir said, citing an investigation by the US Justice Department.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said the yacht has set sail from the Indonesian island of Batam near Singapore and is expected to arrive in Malaysia's Port Klang on Tuesday.

"At the end of the day, the yacht must be sold off" so that Malaysia can recover as much money as possible from it, Lim said.

The Justice Department, one of several foreign agencies investigating the alleged looting of the 1MDB fund by associates of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, had listed the yacht among the assets it could seize and sell to recover stolen funds.

Najib set up 1MDB when he took power in 2009 but it accumulated billions in debts. The 1MDB scandal led to his shocking electoral defeat in May and Najib is now facing charges.

Malaysian and international authorities want to question Malaysian financier Jho Low, who the Justice Department alleges was a key figure in the theft and international laundering of USD 4.5 billion from 1MDB. US investigators said Low bought the yacht with proceeds diverted from 1MDB.

Low, who has so far evaded investigators, issued a statement through his US attorney today protesting the handover of the yacht as an "illegal act" for ignoring court proceedings in the United States.

The yacht's registered owner, Equanimity Cayman Ltd., had filed a claim on the vessel and filed further proceedings following the handover to Malaysia, the statement said, without giving further details.

Mahathir said anyone who wants to claim ownership of the yacht must show proof that the vessel was not bought with stolen funds.

"We want to know where they obtained so much money to buy such an expensive yacht," he said.

The Equanimity's lavish amenities include a helicopter landing pad, plunge pool, gymnasium and a cinema. It was built in 2014 by the Dutch yacht manufacturer Oceano, which received detailed instructions from Low about its outfitting, according to the Justice Department's asset recovery case.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Malaysia's new government has shut down a Saudi-backed anti-terrorism center, just over a year after it was launched by the kingdom's ruling monarch during a visit here last year.

Defense Minister Mohamad Sabu said in a written reply to a question in parliament on Monday that the King Salman Center for International Peace will cease operation immediately and that its function will be absorbed by the Malaysian Institute of Defense and Security.

He didn't give a reason for the closure.

The center, which aims to draw Islamic scholars to combat extremist views and promote tolerance, was announced in March last year during King Salman's visit to Malaysia under former Malaysian leader Najib Razak. It has a temporary office in Kuala Lumpur while awaiting the construction of a permanent building in Malaysia's administrative capital of Putrajaya.

Najib suffered a shocking defeat in May's national polls and is now facing corruption charges.

Opposition lawmaker Hishammuddin Hussein, who was formerly defense minister, said Tuesday that the move to close the center was a loss to the nation amid growing terrorism in the Muslim world. He said the center was aimed at putting predominantly Muslim Malaysia at the forefront of the fight against violent extremism and ideologies together with Saudi Arabia.

There have been concerns in recent years that under Najib, Saudi Arabia's ultraconservative interpretation of Islam has gained an expanded foothold in Malaysia.

The kingdom has built mosques and schools across the region and offers scholarships to Malaysians and other Southeast Asian Muslims who want to study in Saudi Arabia.

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Using poems to blame the BJP-led central government for cancellation of her foreign visits, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today said 'political diplomacy' came in way of her China tour while a 'religious monopoly' shut the door on her wish to visit Chicago to commemorate 125 years of Swami Vivekananda's famous address there.

A day after criticising the BJP on the Assam NRC issue in a poem, Banerjee today posted two more poems on her Facebook page, in which she virtually put the blame on the saffron party for cancellation of her proposed visits to China, Chicago and St Stephen's College in Delhi.

The two poems - 'Untouchable' in English and 'Naam Nei' (name not there), an almost identical one in Bengali, also carried her signature.

She had yesterday written a poem titled 'Identity' in Bengali, in which she slammed the BJP government over the complete draft of Assam's National Register of Citizens (NRC) and said those who protested against the saffron party had no place in the country.

Her 'Untouchable' poem goes as: "Do you want to go to China, no comments please. Political diplomacy cancelled it.

"Want to visit Chicago to commemorate 125 years of Swami Vivekananda's address. Religious monopoly shut down the door".

It further says: "Accepted the invitation of St Stephen's College, not allowed friends. See the class struggle".

The organisers had withdrawn an invite extended to Banerjee to attend an event and interact with students of the college.

Banerjee had cancelled her first China visit in June just hours before embarking on the journey, saying political meetings at the "appropriate level" were not confirmed by that country's government.

On her opposition to the NRC in Assam, she wrote, "Want to protest for Indian citizens in Assam, you are anti-national. Fortunately you were born in West Bengal, otherwise you would have been called intruders."



In her Bengali poem 'Naam Nei', she has written: "Where do you go? Go digital. ATM is marching ahead. Have your name in Aadhaar card."



"The country is marching ahead, Rastriya seba sangha is moving ahead. Want bread, go to shoping mall, (you will) get it there," it says.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A Kansas man who fatally shot an Indian immigrant and wounded another in a suburban Kansas City bar is scheduled to be sentenced today on federal hate crime charges.

Adam Purinton of Olathe agreed to a plea deal in May that recommended he be sentenced to life in prison on each of three hate crime charges, with the sentences to run consecutively.

Purinton reportedly yelled "Get out of my country" before killing 32-year-old Srinivas Kuchibhotla and wounding Kuchibhotla's friend, Alok Madasani, in February 2017. A third man who tried to intervene was wounded.

The attack raised fears that immigrants faced more violence after President Donald Trump's election and caused concern in India over safety in the US.

The 53-year-old Purinton is already serving a life sentence in Kansas for premeditated first-degree murder.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Maratha quota leaders said today that the community members will hold strident protests across Maharashtra on August 9 for the cause.

The leaders said they have decided to suspend all communications as part of the protest.

"The state government has not only failed to implement its promises made to the Maratha community before the 2014 assembly elections and in the last four years, but also delayed the procedure of withdrawing police complaints filed against the Maratha youth across the state," said Vinod Pokharkar, a leader of the Maratha Kranti Morcha.

He accused chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and other leaders of not keeping the quota promise.

Pokharkar claimed that at least 2,000 youths from the community were arrested by the local police under serious charges in the state, following the agitations held last month.

"With the August 9 protest imminent, the state government ensured that hearing on the cases against the Maratha youth would take place after August 9. This means that these youths will remain behind bars till Thursday," he alleged.

He claimed that not a single police station in districts has received the state government's letter asking them to withdraw charges of non-serious nature against the arrested youths.

Fadnavis had announced last month that the government would withdraw non-serious charges against the Maratha youths.

Pokharkar alleged that Fadnavis seemed not keen to withdraw the cases.

Another leader Bhaiyya Patil said meetings will be held tomorrow in some districts to chalk out the strategy for the August 9 protests.

"We will finalise the agitation plan in these meetings. We want to show the strength of the community to the government," Patil said.

The politically-influential Maratha community, constituting around 30 per cent of Maharashtra's population, has been agitating to press their demand for reservation in jobs and education under the OBC category.

In a related development, the Bombay High Court appealed to members of the Maratha community today to refrain from resorting to violence or committing suicide over their demand for reservation in government jobs and education.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Maratha community members from at least two villages in Maharashtra's Parbhani district have stopped sending their children to schools in support of the quota demand.

The Maratha families, most of them farmers from Sarola Budruk and Takalgavhan villages in Pathri taluka, feel that sending their wards to schools is of no use, as there are no jobs in government.

At least 85 students of total 118 have not been attending the Zilla Parishad (ZP)-run primary and secondary school in Sarola Budruk village since August 4, a teacher said today on the condition of anonymity.

"Of the 118 students, only 33 students had attended the school in the last two days," he said.

Some parents said today that they would not send their wards to schools until the state government announced reservation for the Maratha community in government jobs and

The parents today submitted a memorandum to the Block Development Officer (BDO) stating that "it is useless to send the children to schools, as there are no jobs available due to lack of reservation".

There are one or two private schools in Sarola Budruk village, apart from the Zilla Parishad school, which has population of around 3000-4000.

The attendance in the private schools is also very less, a local government official said.

In Pathri, around 15,000 children about 9,000 from the Maratha community get free from Class 1 to Class 10 in 105 zilla parishad schools.

Similarly, parents in Takalgavhan village, with population of around 5000, stopped sending their children to schools from August 4.

Hundreds of students from various schools in Pathri and other villages yesterday participated in a peaceful agitation, led by a Maratha reservation group, in front of the tehsil office in Pathri.

The Sakal Matatha Morcha has been holding the agitation in Parbhani district for quota in government jobs and since July 19.

During yesterday's protests, many students spoke passionately about how their parents had suffered in absence of dedicated reservation for the community.

The students yesterday submitted a memorandum to Deputy Collector Umakant Pardhi demanding quota.

The agitation passed off peacefully, said police inspector Vidyasagar Shreemanwar.

Vilas Patil, a teacher from a school in Pathri, said the students had joined the protest after attending their schools.

The politically-influential Maratha community, constituting around 30 per cent of Maharashtra's population, has been agitating to press their demand for reservation in jobs and education under the OBC category.

The community, which had held violent protests in various parts of the state last month, has warned of fresh wave of protests from August 9, if the state government fails to grant them quota by then.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Paris, TX (75460)

Today

Mostly cloudy and windy. High 66F. Winds NW at 25 to 35 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 50 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 49F. Winds NW at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible.
In view of the 'bandh' (shutdown) called by the Maratha organisations on August 9 over their reservation demand, police have decided to step up security in the district.

District Collector Naval Kishor Ram today held a meeting of over 50 members and conveners of Maratha Kranti Morcha (MKM), where District Superintendent of Police Sandip Patil was also present.

Talking about the security measures, Patil said that besides the existing police force, three additional State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) companies and one Rapid Action Force (RAF) team will be deployed to ensure that there is no law and order situation in the district.

"We have decided to deploy our 80 per cent police force towards the protest. In addition to that, three SRPF companies and one RAF team will be deployed at sensitive places in the district," he said.

According to Patil, security will be enhanced on the main highways passing through the district as the protesters might try to block the roads.

Talking about the preventive action against the anti-social elements, Patil said some miscreants have been identified and they will be detained and kept out of the district.

"So far 50 people have been arrested in connection with the violence that erupted in Chakan," he said.

Ram said, "During the meeting, an appeal was made to the Maratha organisations to maintain peace and not to resort to the violence on August 9. I am happy that all the MKM members and its conveners were positive and assured co-operation."



The collector said he told the conveners of the MKM that the state government was taking all the necessary steps towards fulfilling the reservation demand.

"We appeal the youth from the community not to take any drastic step such as suicide," he said.

According to Ram, a decision on keeping schools and colleges shut on August 9 will be taken tomorrow.

Pravin Gaikwad, one of the conveners of the MKM fromthe citysaid they were travelling in the state and making an appeal to the members of the community to maintain peace during the protest and not to resort to any violence.

"All the community members have been asked to gather at their respective collectorate or tehsildar offices in their city from 10 am to 5 pm on August 9 to express the solidarity to the agitation," he said.

Members of the MKM will be holding a sit-in agitation outside the residence of NCP chief Sharad Pawar at Baramati (in Pune district) tomorrow, Gaikwad added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has issued "preliminary notices" to 272 companies for alleged non-compliance with CSR provisions under the companies law.

In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Corporate Affairs P P Chaudhary said that whenever violation of CSR provision is reported, the Registrar of Companies takes action after due examination of records.

Under the Companies Act, 2013, certain class of entities are required to spend at least two per cent of their three-year average net profit towards Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities.

"The ministry has established Centralised Scrutiny and Prosecution Mechanism (CSPM) in April, 2018 for the financial year 2015-16 onwards on pilot basis for enforcement of CSR provisions.

"CSPM has been tasked to start with examination of records of top 1,000 companies mandated to spend on CSR. Based on inquiry, preliminary notices have been issued to 272 companies," Chaudhary said.

According to him, for the 2014-15 fiscal, the ministry sanctioned prosecution against 254 companies and out of them, 33 firms filed applications for compounding.

Generally, compounding refers to paying an amount in lieu of prosecution proceedings.

In another written reply, the minister said the Companies Act is administered through a mechanism of inquiries, inspections, investigations and prosecution.

"These are carried out with due examination of the company's documents filed on MCA registry, books of account and other records... by following due procedure of law.

"Hence, there is no blind application of provisions of the Act," he noted.

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The Meghalaya government, which is keen on marketing jackfruit available in plenty in the state, has entrusted a hotel management institute here to popularise it, a government official said.

Popularising the fruit will also create livelihood opportunities for jackgruit growers in rural and urban areas, the official said.

Meghalaya is the second state after Tripura in the North East region to have taken the initiative to explore the potential of the largest tree-borne fruit seriously, according to Additional Chief Secretary K N Kumar.

The government-aided Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) recently displayed their products at the jackfruit festival here and all their food items were liked by visitors and state government representatives.

"The IHM is the first and only institute of repute to try out over 100 recipes using jackfruits," its director Vijay Kumar told PTI.

He said the institute is guided by the state government, which intends to market the fruit.

At the jackfruit festival held recently, the IHM team displayed and sold various products made of jackfruit, such as cupcakes, pastries, chips, juice, wines, biscuits, jackfruit pickles, curry and other culinary items.

According to Kumar, the jackfruit biryani was adjudged the best and the item can even make up for chicken.

He hoped the item is accepted in the food outlets in the state.

The tourism department is in contact with leading hotels in the state and has floated the idea of serving jackfruit dishes by them and other food outlets, an officer said.

"This way the demand of the fruit, which generally is a pig feed, will go up," she said.

Often ignored for its bulkiness and strong aroma, the jackfruit has been declared an important fruit in the state and the government has come up with a policy document for a five year intensive mission with an aim to generate employment opportunities for nearly over 80,000 farmers.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma had launched the draft policy for the mission and the Rs 79 crore mission is likely to be launched before Independence Day this year.

Kumar said that the state loses about Rs 500 crore a year due to underutilisation of the "low input and low cost fruit".

He said that roughly 75 per cent of the produce is wasted resulting in a vast economic waste and hoped that due to the mission mode intervention, the value addition of the fruit's products will cut down the waste vastly.

Kumar, under whose supervision the mission has been launched, said if the fruit is promoted the vegan market would specially be attracted as it is grown organically and in a natural way in the state.

The market is increasing by about 600 per cent in the US, 350 per cent in the UK in the past decade and about 17 per cent annually in China, he said.

The market for jackfruits is increasing by about 17 per cent and 600 per cent annually in China and the US respectively, he said. It had risen to 350 per cent in the UK in the past decade, he said.

There are at least one million jackfruit trees in the state spread across the Garo Hills and the border areas of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills region in the state, Kumar said adding the Centre would conduct a diversity study on the fruit.

Governor Ganga Prasad had personally sought the setting up of a national research centre for jack fruit at Tura during his meeting with the union agriculture minister earlier this year, the additional chief secretary said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In yet another incident of lynching, a mentally disabled man was allegedly killed by villagers suspecting him of being a child-lifter in this district of Madhya Pradesh, police said today.

The incident took place at Singwar, 40 kms from the district headquarters, on July 28. The area is pre-dominantly tribal.

On August 1, police learnt that a body was found floating in a well in the village, said Superintendent of Police K Karthikeyan.

The deceased was identified as Mukesh Gond, 27, the resident of Anuppur district, the SP told PTI.

The probe revealed that four villagers -- Jagdish, Chetram, Sanjay and Gangaram -- were drinking on the night of July 28 when they saw Gond wandering aimlessly.

When they called out to him, he hid in a school. The four dragged him out and asked him who he was and where he was from.

Gond, who was apparently mentally-challenged, could only tell that he was from Annupur. The accused allegedly started beating him, calling him "bachcha chor" (child-lifter).

More people gathered and he was beaten with sticks mercilessly, Karthikeyan said.

The accused then allegedly tied his hands and feet and threw him into a well. To drown the body, they also tied a stone to it, he said.

Police have arrested ten persons in the case, including Jagdish and his companions.

Earlier, a mentally-ill woman was lynched on suspicion of being a child-lifter in Singrauli district of the state on July 19.

With a spate of such incidents across the country, the Supreme Court last month had asked the Centre to frame a special law to tackle the menace.

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The first medical college in Mizoram was today inaugurated by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla.

The chief minister inaugurated the Mizoram Institute of Medical and Research (MIMER) at Falkawn, about 20 km south of Aizawl.

The classes in the MIMER would commence from next week with 73 students including around 10 NRIs already admitted, officials said.

The medical college would have a Referral Hospital at the same premises, they added.

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The (CAG) said the Defence Ministry should seek legal advice in a matter related to payment to a Russian missile firm that led to liquidated damage worth several millions of dollars.

The (MoD) had signed a contract with a Russian firm for supply of missiles in November 2012 at a cost of $232,570,000.

Payment up to 85 per cent -- $197,684,500 -- had to be made to the firm through an irrevocable revolving Letter of Credit (LC). This was to be opened for an initial amount of $59,305,350.

In case of delay in the opening of LC, the ministry had to pay liquidated damages (LD) at the rate of 0.07 per cent to the firm for each day of delay.

The ministry opened the LC after a delay of 81 days and calculated LD of $9,884,225 payable to the supplier based on the entire amount of LC payment, that is $197,684,500, and not on the initial amount of LC, which was $59,305,350, that would have resulted in LD payable as $2,956,267.5 only.

"The MoD should obtain legal opinion on the amount to be reckoned for calculation of LD and raise a supplementary claim on the supplier, if need be, as the difference at the prevailing exchange rate ($1 = Rs 66.72) is Rs 461.6 million (Rs 46.16 crore)," the report said.

The also pointed to the delay in Dhanush guns.

The Ordnance Factory Board (OFB), in 2011, undertook the development of electronically upgraded 155mm/45 Calibre Gun System "Dhanush" based on the Transfer of Technology (ToT) obtained in 1986 from the foreign firm while procuring 155 mm/39 calibre guns.

"The development undertaken by OFB was yet to clear the user trials completely, resulting in the continued deficiency of modern artillery gun in the Army," the said.

The also said there was an "inordinate delay" in the indigenous development of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) by the

It added that despite incurring an expenditure of Rs 797.5 million (Rs 79.75 crore) in the procurement of four UAVs through Limited Series Production, the UAVs developed by the failed to meet the user's requirements.

"Further, in another case, delay in development of Medium Altitude Long Endurance UAV system adversely affected the aerial surveillance capability of the Indian Army," it added.
Jagtar Singh Hawara, facing death



sentence for assassinating former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh, was today acquitted by a Moga court in an attempt to murder case of 2010.

District and Sessions Judge Tarsem Mangla acquitted Hawara in the attempt to murder case as the prosecution failed to secure evidence against him.

Hawara was brought from Tihar Jail and produced in the court under tight security.

Hawara and two others had been booked by the police for allegedly trying to kill Constable Jasbir Singh in 2010.

A case had been registered against Hawara and the two



under various sections of the Indian Penal Code on January 19, 2010.

The police in its investigation report told the court that the prosecution has not been able to gather sufficient evidence against him.

The other two accused have already being acquitted by the court.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Mutual funds' asset base rose by 5 per cent to Rs 23.96 lakh crore in July-end, driven by participation from retail investors and a spirited investor awareness campaign by the industry.

The asset under management (AUM) of the industry, comprising 42 players, was Rs 22.86 lakh crore at the end of June, according to the data by Association of Mutual Funds in India (Amfi).

The total asset base of all the fund houses put together was Rs 19.97 lakh crore in July last year.

"The monthly rise in the asset base is mainly due to the industry body's investor awareness campaign and strong participation from retail investors," Amfi Chief Executive NS Venkatesh told PTI over phone.

Besides, Systematic Investment Plan (SIPs) continue to be the fancy of retail investors and people continue to invest through the route as it allows investors to invest in small amounts periodically instead of lump sum, he added.

Retail equity AUM has touched Rs 10 lakh crore last month. It stood at Rs 9.61 lakh crore in June-end.

Further, nine lakh new folios have been added last month taking the total to all time high of 7.55 crore at the end of July from 7.46 crore in preceding month-end.

"The addition of new folios suggests that new investors believe that mutual funds are among the most promising investment products for the long term," Venkatesh said.

Folios are numbers designated to individual investor accounts, though an investor can have multiple accounts.

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"My turban really saved me", says a 50-year-old Sikh man who was ambushed, beaten up multiple times by two white men who yelled racial slurs at him in the US.

Surjit Singh Malhi said he was putting out political signs for US Representative Jeff Denham, a Republican running for re-election, near his home in California when he was attacked by the two men who yelled racial slurs that "You're not welcome here!, Go back to your country!".

"My turban really saved me," Malhi was quoted as saying by the New York Times yesterday. He said his turban acted "like a helmet, but stronger."



"The two men came up behind me and accosted me. They threw sand in my eyes so I could not see, he said, adding that they struck my head and back with what appeared to be a stick and a belt.

"The way they were hitting me, (I thought) maybe I would die. You don't belong here," he said they told him.

Malhi, came to the US from India in 1992 and is now a permanent resident. He wears a turban and that may be the reason he was targeted, but it may have also saved his life.

"The only reason (he was attacked), as far as we can tell, is because he was wearing a turban and he was Middle Eastern," Deputy Royjindar Singh said. "That was the only reason they attacked him."



Malhi said everything happened quickly. He said he did not get a good look at the attackers, but told investigators they were two men wearing black sweatshirts, KCRA channel TV reported.

He said they spray painted the side of his truck with a white nationalist symbol and wrote, "Go back to your country."



Malhi said he has never experienced racism like that.

"I never feel that way," he said. "I've never been mistreated like that."



"I have a lot of friends," Malhi said. "I have no problem. I do not feel any racism against me ever. I have friends who are standing for me. They love me and I love them."



Sheriff Adam Christianson of Stanislaus County said his office was aggressively investigating the case and looking for suspects.

"It's a despicable hate crime," the sheriff said. "There is no room for this in Stanislaus County or anywhere else in the United States of America."



Meanwhile, Denham, the Republican lawmaker of California, released a statement yesterday condemning the attack, which occurred in his district.

Central California is home to a large Sikh community, and Malhi leads a group of Sikh volunteers for the congressman's campaign.

"Inciting violence because of race, religion or political beliefs should never be tolerated," Denham said. "This is the third incident in less than two weeks where a member of my team has been a target and it must come to an end."



Turbans represent a commitment to gender and racial equality, as well as religious tolerance, said Gurwin Singh Ahuja, co-founder of the National Sikh Campaign.

"Sikhs wear their turbans to signal their readiness to protect people from injustice," he said. "It's very ironic that these people chose to attack him for how he looks, when in fact, how he looks represents the highest ideals of our country.

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Pyongyang today released a South Korean detainee "arrested for entering the North illegally" last month, Seoul's unification ministry said, as ties improve between the two countries following a summit between their leaders in April.

"Our side received a South Korean national surnamed Seo, born in 1984, through Panmunjom from the North at 11:00 am (0200 GMT)" on Tuesday, the ministry said in a statement, referring to the truce village in the Demilitarized Zone dividing the two countries.

The release followed a message from Pyongyang on Monday informing Seoul that the North Korean authorities had arrested the South Korean for "entering the North illegally on July 22", the statement added.

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Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu today chided members for the thin attendance in the House when a crucial legislation to provide constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes was passed last evening.

At the start of the day's proceedings, Naidu observed that 156 members were present when the Rajya Sabha passed the constitution amendment bill.

"We just scraped through," he lamented.

Rajya Sabha has a total strength of 245. Majority of the members, that is more than half, are required to be present when an amendment to the Constitution is passed. It can be passed only when two-thirds of the members are present and vote in favour.

"Yesterday, we passed a historic bill unanimously," he said and went on to make his point.

"What is the total presence in the House? 156. What is the strength of the House? On such a constitution amendment where there is unanimity, where there is consensus, and we just scrape through," he said citing the rule on passage of a constitution amendment bill.

The bill could have fallen if the numbers were a little less.

"We were exactly a little above the mark, that's all. Otherwise, you can't get it approved also," he said.

He said on such matters, political parties should issue whips to their members to ensure their presence.

"On such matters, parties also through their whips (leaders) must see to it that members are cautioned, or guided or directed to be there on time and also vote in such things," he said.

Naidu said it would be a "sad commentary" on the functioning of the Rajya Sabha if someone was to take note of the attendance.

"Whenever there is an important legislation in Parliament, better be present in the House in large numbers, so that a message goes to the society," he said.

He also asked members to be punctual and assemble in the House before the start of the day's proceedings at 1100 hours.

"I have been seeing that members are coming after the Chairman comes and the House assembles," he said.

"The practice is that everybody should be there in the seat before the Chairman comes and then we must start. That will send a good message."



Observing that arriving five minutes early would not make much of a difference, he said when members come in late, they also disturb others to reach their allocated seat.

"All these things can be avoided. This will enhance the prestige and decorum of the House," he said.

Naidu also asked ministers to give advance notice of leave of absence when papers listed against their name are to be taken up.

"I will not allow any statement made by any minister on behalf of other ministers unless I get notice beforehand and then I permit it," he said.

While there has been some improvement, but still some people at the last moment approach the Table office and the Secretariat for allowing someone else to lay the papers on their behalf.

"This is not permissible. This is the last day. I am not going to allow it at all. Please take note of it," he added.

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On National Handloom Day, weavers from Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand today protested outside the National Handloom Development Corporation Limited (NHDC) here, alleging that yarn supply has been stopped to them since April and their dues are pending with the public sector undertaking.

Handloom weavers from Etawah, Moradabad, Varanasi, Barabanki, Sitapur, Udham Singh Nagar, Jaspur in Uttar Pradesh and Kashipur in Uttarakhand protested outside the NHDC headquarters in Greater Noida this morning.

Later, in the afternoon, a 10-member delegation of the weavers went to Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani's residence in Delhi to submit a memorandum to them.

The weavers, under an umbrella association Uttar Pradesh Bunkar Sangharsh Samiti, demanded that the supply of yarn to them be resumed by the NHDC.

"Despite the central government's ongoing Yarn Supply Scheme, NHDC has not been able to supply threads to the weavers of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand since April 1," the union said in a statement.

"It's the National Handloom Day today, but we have not come here to celebrate it. This is bunkar barbaadi day (weavers' destruction day) and the NHDC is responsible for it," the statement added.

The prime minister had started the Yarn Supply Scheme to eradicate unemployment among the weavers and uplift them. Under this scheme, the NHDC had issued Yarn Pass Books to weavers, according to the statement.

"Accordingly, one weaver would get 30 kg of yarn in a month. But since April 1 this year, the NHDC has stopped supplying yarn to weavers of the two states despite the central government continuing the scheme," they claimed in the statement.

Union chairman Mohammad Farooq Ansari said they met NHDC Executive Director (Commercial) and Deputy General Manager S S Bhakarwal at its headquarters today.

"They have assured us that the supply would resume soon and that payments and other pending dues would be cleared soon," Ansari told PTI.

The union has demanded that the supply of yarn, which has been stopped since April, be resumed and they also be given the yarn for this period.

"The weavers have also spent their own money on logistics which gets reimbursed by NHDC but has not been paid for months. This money should also be released," he said.

Ansari said the weavers pay money to the NHDC to get the yarn on subsidised rates. The agency procures it from private mills.

He claimed that the money which has been paid to NHDC by the weavers has not reached the private firms and that is why they have stopped the supply of the yarn.

"All such pending dues toward the private mills be cleared by NHDC so that the yarn supply could resume," the statement said.

Stating that several weavers have been rendered jobless due to the stoppage of yarn supply, the union warned that the NHDC is to be blamed if any weaver commits suicide, according to the statement.

"Even coming to Greater Noida and Delhi (for the protest) was financially so tough for us that we had to collect donations for it," Ansari said.

He added that many others wanted to come but the could not due to financial constraints but have donated to the best of their abilities to make their appeals reach those in power.

Weavers from Uttarakhand are also registered in UP under the scheme.

Ansari said weavers are a "poor lot" being "neglected" by the government.

"We used to get 30 kg of yarn every month which would cost us between Rs 7,000 to Rs 9,000. The subsidy in it was 10 per cent but there was a GST of 5 per cent on it," Ansari, 65, explained.

Abdul Salaam Ansari, the union's Morabadad unit chief, said the weavers can make articles such as bed sheets and stoles worth 30 kg from the same worth of yarn -- 30 kg.

"We have to go from haat to haat (traditional Indian markets) to sell our products. All this effort fetches a weaver a profit around 4,000 to 5,000 per month," he said, lamenting that a labourers payment for a day is over Rs 300 now.

Abdul Salaam claimed that eight weavers in Thakurdwara tehsil of Moradabad have committed suicide because the yarn supply was stopped and they had no money to feed their families.

"Now several others have taken up odd jobs. Some are driving e-rickshaws, some have turned labourers. They are not skilled at these and every other day we get to hear of them getting injured," he said.

Abdul Salaam, 55, said he is a fourth generation weaver and his children are working hard to continue the legacy.

Mohammad Javed Ansari, the unions chief in Kashipur, Uttarakhand, shared a similar story of weavers giving up their traditional work.

"If the government can help us by procuring our products, that I think can help us a great deal," he told PTI.

Weaving is a traditional craft, which could be lost if attention is not paid to them and help not extended, Javed said, adding that both his parents have been weavers all through their lives.

Asked if wanted his children also to continue in the work, the 38-year-old said, "I am providing them with all formal education but want them to stick to their traditional craft and in future improve the scene for weavers by their skill."



Another weaver said until 15-20 years ago the Uttar Pradesh Industrial Cooperative Association Ltd (UPICA) would procure the products made by the weavers but this doesn't happen anymore.

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The NCLAT has said that it will hear Cyrus Mistry's appeal on the NCLT order in his case against Tata Sons on Wednesday as the counsel for the conglomerate was not present on Tuesday to put forth his arguments before the bench.

Mistry had approached the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) last week against the NCLT dismissing his plea challenging his removal as chairman of Tata Sons.

The two-member NCLAT has listed the matter for Wednesday.

On July 9, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) Mumbai had dismissed Mistry's pleas challenging his removal as Tata Sons chairman as also the allegations of rampant misconduct on part of Ratan Tata and the company's Board.

A special bench of the tribunal held that the Board of Directors at Tata Sons was "competent" to remove the executive chairperson of the company.

NCLT bench members B S V Prakash Kumar and V Nallasenapathy said that Mistry was ousted as chairman because the Tata Sons' Board and its majority shareholders had "lost confidence in him".



Under the Act 2013, an order of NCLT can be challenged before the NCLAT.

Mistry, who was the sixth chairman of Tata Sons, was ousted from the position in October 2016. He had taken over as the chairman in 2012 after Ratan Tata announced his retirement.

Two months after his removal, Mistry's family-run firms Cyrus Investments Pvt Ltd and Sterling Investments Corp approached the NCLT as minority shareholders, against Tata Sons, Ratan Tata, and some other board members.

Mistry in his pleas primarily argued that his removal was not in accordance with the Act and that there was rampant mismanagement of affairs across Tata Sons.

He also alleged that Tata Trust chairperson Ratan Tata and trustee N Soonawala interfered with the day-to-day operations of the group companies, they acted as shadow directors, and all of the above caused massive revenue loss for the group.

The Tata Group had denied all charges and said Mistry was removed because the Board had lost confidence in him.
Colombia's new President Ivan Duque said today upon taking office that he would implement "corrective measures" to the 2016 peace deal his predecessor reached with leftist FARC rebels.

Duque also said he would take a tougher tack in talks with the country's last active rebel group, the ELN.

"We will deploy corrective measures to ensure that the victims get the truth, proportional justice, reparations -- and no repetitions" of the past, Duque said of the FARC deal.

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A newly married army jawan was today killed while foiling an infiltration bid in Gurez sector in Jammu and Kashmir near the Line of Control (LOC), officials said.

Twenty-six-year-old lance naik Vikramjeet Singh, a resident of village Tepla in Ambala, had tied the knot a few months ago, officials said.

His body will reach the Ambala Cantt Air Force station on Wednesday, they added.

Singh was among the team of soldiers who challenged a group of intruders in Gurez valley this morning. He lost his life in the ensuing encounter.

Singh's father Baljinder is a farmer in the village situated around 10 km from Ambala Cantt while, his younger brother is also serving in the army.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Ambala, Shakti Singh visited the residence of the martyr to console his bereaved family.

Singh's mortal remains will be cremated at his native village with full state honours, an official said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Ghaziabad Nagar Nigam to clean the storm water drains in Vasundhara township within four weeks.

A bench of Justice Raghuvendra S Rathore and expert member S S Garbyal asked Municipal Commissioner of the civic body to ensure garbage was removed from the drains and sought a compliance report by September 10.

The green panel also took into account the report submitted by advocate Kush Sharma-- appointed court commissioner in the case-- who had suggested that a planned mechanism was needed to ensure that waste was not thrown into the drains during monsoon.

"In view of the grievance raised by the applicant and the report submitted by the court commissioner, we are of the considered opinion that respondent shall comply with the suggestions given by the commissioner in its later and spirit," the bench said.

"For that purpose we grant four weeks time to the respondents if any work is required to be done and to restore the rain water drain to its original form. No obstacle/hindrance etc. should remain in the flow of water," it added.

The court commissioner had suggested that encroachment on the drains by shopkeepers and residents needs to be kept in check and preventive measures must be implemented against any future encroachment.

The tribunal had earlier directed the civic authorities to clean the drains in sector 16 of Vasundhara colony and free them from the waste coming from the sewers in the nearby Prahlad Garhi village.

The plea filed by Vasundhara residents K P Singh and others alleged that the drains had been converted into an open sewer and remained choked through the year while hazardous sewer waste overflows in the streets, releasing "highly poisonous" gases.

Seeking the NGT's direction to clean them, the residents said that the filthy drains were adversely affecting the and health of the locals.

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The NIA has arrested a top leader of the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh, Mohammed Jahidul Islam, from Bengaluru, who was wanted in the Burdwan blast case in India and in several terror cases in Bangladesh, officials said today.

Mohammed Jahidul Islam alias Kausar alias Munna alias Mizan alias Boma Miyan, aged 38 years, was arrested by an NIA team yesterday from Ramanagara near Bengaluru, NIA spokesperson said in a statement.

His house was also searched, and some electronic devices were recovered, besides traces of explosives were also found, the official said.

"He is the top leader of the JMB (Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh) in India and is wanted in the Burdwan blast case and in many other cases in Bangladesh also. He is the master mind in the Bodh Gaya case," he said.

On October 2, 2014, a blast had occurred in a house at Khagragarh in West Bengal's Burdwan district in which a man identified as Sakil Gazi died on the spot, while another named Sovan Mandal died in hospital.

Both of them were suspected of having terror links.

The NIA had alleged that the JMB members wanted to establish Sharia rule by overthrowing the democratically-elected government in Bangladesh.

A low-intensity blast was reported at a kitchen set up at the Kaalchintan Ground in the temple town of Bodh Gaya on January 19, causing panic among devotees gathered to hear the Dalai Lama's discourse.

It is alleged that on Islam's directions Mustafizur Rehman alias Shahin, who is his close associate, had arranged and assembled all the explosives for the incident, the spokesperson said.

Islam has been sent to five days of transit remand by a special NIA court in Bengaluru and will now be produced before the special NIA Court, Patna, by the agency, he said.

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The Niti Aayog today held a daylong workshop with civil society organisations (CSOs) of Jammu and Kashmir in Srinagar to strengthen partnership between the CSOs and the government, according to an official statement.

Senior Niti Aayog officials stated that despite challenges, the Jammu and Kashmir government has undertaken various initiatives that have led to strong performance in health sector, it said.

"Contrary to perceptions, the economic indicators are moving favourably," the satement said, adding that nevertheless there are certain challenges in many sectors like in the field of education that requires a synergistic focus on the Centre, state governments and civil services societies.

Member coordinator of NITI-CSO committee, Amod Kanth, emphasised the need to build on a collaborative approach between the government and the CSOs.

Advisor to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Khurshid Ganai, stated that a concerted effort needs to be made for capacity building of CSOs, and a nodal department in the state be created to serve as a mechanism to sort out issues such as delay in processing of projects, among others, of the CSOs.

Over 60 CSOs operating in the J&K region, officials from the Niti Aayog and 14 central ministries, and pan India CSOs participated in the workshop.

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JD(U) president Nitish Kumar today reached out to Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, requesting the support of TRS for his party lawmaker and NDA candidate Harivansh Narayan Singh in the election to the post of Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha.

The Bihar chief minister rang up the Telangana Rashtra Samithi president this morning and made the request, according to Rao's office.

Rao told him he would discuss the issue with his party colleagues and take a final decision, it said.

Kumar's call comes as the NDA and the Opposition appeared to be heading for a showdown in the election. The Opposition has given a clear indication that it will contest the August 9 election.

In the upper house, the BJP-led ruling alliance lacks a majority.

According to Opposition sources, Tiruchi Siva of DMK, Vandana Chavan of NCP and nominated member K T S Tulsi are front-runners for the post.

The support of regional parties such as the AIADMK, BJD, TRS and YSR Congress are crucial in the poll.

The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since June this year, following the retirement of P J Kurien, who had been elected to the upper house of Parliament on a Congress ticket from Kerala.

The current strength of Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in the full house.

The BJP is the largest party in the house with 73 members. Its allies JD(U), Shiv Sena, Akali Dal have six, three and three members, respectively.

Besides the nominated and independent members affiliated to it, the BJP is banking on the support of 13, nine, six and two members of the AIADMK, BJD, TRS, YSR Congress respectively, its floor managers said.

If all four parties support the NDA candidate, then the numbers add up to 126.

However, if parties like BJD or TRS abstain from voting, then things will become more precarious for the ruling alliance.

Both these parties had abstained during a vote on the recent motion of no-confidence against the government in the Lok Sabha while the AIADMK had voted with the treasury benches.

The BJP is hoping to get support of four of the six independent members and three of the four nominated members.

The Congress has 50 members.

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Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today expressed profound grief over DMK president M Karunanidhi's death.

The former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister died at the age of 94 after a prolonged illness in Chennai.

In his condolence message, Kumar said that the country has lost a big political personality who always kept democratic values at the top. He was a leading personality of social and economic uplift in Tamil Nadu.

People will always remember his contributions and achievements vis-a-vis uplift of deprived sections of the society and also for maintaining social harmony, Kumar, who is also national president of JD(U), said.

"I had a very close relations with him. His death has caused irreparable loss to the fields of politics and society," Kumar said in an official release.

Kumar had talked to Karunanidhi's daughter Kanimozhi over telephone this morning, it said.

The Bihar CM prayed to almighty to give strength and courage to the relatives, followers and fans to bear the loss.

In his message, Kumar said "Karunanidhi was a popular leader. His death has caused irreparable loss to Indian politics which is diffuclt to be filled."



Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi also expressed grief over death of the DMK leader.

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Trinamool Congress member Sugata Bose today asked the government to observe the 75th anniversary of the Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj) across the country.

Raising the issue during the Zero Hour in the Lok Sabha, he also urged the External Affairs Ministry to ask the missions abroad, especially in the Asian countries where Subhash Chandra Bose had visited to set up the force, to hold events to commemorate the event.

Bose, a grandnephew of Netaji, also urged Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to make a mention of it during the ongoing session.

The younger generation should know how Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose had united the people from different religious and regional backgrounds, he said.

Among other issues, BJP's Sharad Tripathi spoke of the drive to clean the Ganga and lamented that the work has not gathered pace because of sewerage and other waste getting deposited in the river.

"Despite spending thousands of crores, our rivers have not been cleaned," he said, while batting for setting up of sewerage treatment plants to treat waste flowing into Ganga and other rivers.

Raghu Sharma of the Congress accused Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje of misusing the government machinery for political purposes during her 'Rajasthan Gaurav Yatra' through the poll-bound state.

BJP's Bharat Singh said Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had promised a bottling plant in Balia in Uttar Pradesh and demanded that it should be set up soon.

Meenakshi Lekhi (BJP) expressed concern over the use of plastic and demanded that aerated drinks should be sold only in glass bottles or metal cans.

She also said a "buyback" option should be available so that those buying dairy products and other goods, which are sold in plastic package, should sell the plastic to the suppliers.

Congress member Sunil Kumar Jakhar alleged a scam saying oil marketing companies were collecting caste, religion and other details of oil pump employees and lorry drivers. He claimed this was being done due to the Lok Sabha polls next year.

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A school teacher has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a court in Odisha's Rayagada district for sexually abusing an eight year-old student.

Additional district judge Debdutta Das Mohapatra also imposed a fine of Rs 3 lakh on the teacher of the private school yesterday.

In case of failure to pay the fine, the convict would have to undergo an additional six months in jail, the order said.

Apart from the victims statement, the court examined 21 witnesses before pronouncing the verdict, Public Prosecutor Ch Srinivas Rao said.

According to the prosecution, the matter came to light after the parents of the boy lodged a complaint with the police following which the teacher was arrested on October 9 last under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, POCSO Act and Juvenile Justice Act.

The convict used to sexually abuse the child and had threatened him not to disclose the matter to anyone, the prosecution said.

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After Australia, Indian ride-hailing company Ola is set to foray into the UK market, starting with South Wales and Greater Manchester.

The company, which had started operations in Australia earlier this year, plans to offer services across the UK by the end of this year, Ola said in a statement.

"Ola has obtained licences to operate in South Wales and Greater Manchester, and will launch operations in South Wales within the next month," it said.

Ola added that it will be the only ride-hailing app in the UK to offer passengers the option of Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs) and Black Cabs through one app, which will see additional transportation options being incorporated in the future.

The company is working with local authorities across the UK to expand nationwide by end of 2018, it said.

The Bengaluru-based company will include DBS screened drivers and processes such as 24/7 voice support, options to share ride details with emergency contacts and in-app emergency features for passengers' safety.

"Ola is excited to announce its plans for the UK, one of the world's most evolved transportation markets. The UK is a fantastic place to do business and we look forward to providing a responsible, compelling, new service that can help the country meet its ever demanding mobility needs," Ola co-founder and CEO Bhavish Aggarwal said.

He added that the company will continue to engage with policymakers and regulators in the UK as it expands across the country.

In Australia, Ola offers its services in seven major cities -- Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra and Adelaide.

Over 40,000 drivers across Australia have registered with it since the launch in February.

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India's ride-hailing service Ola today announced its plans to expand into the UK with a "dynamic and responsible" new taxi service, marking its entry into the second global market after Australia earlier this year.

Ola said it has obtained licences to operate in South Wales and Greater Manchester, and will launch operations in South Wales by September. The company said that it is working with local authorities across the UK to expand nationwide by end of 2018.

Unlike its main rival Uber, the Indian firm has entered the UK on a platform that will offer passengers the option to hail private hire vehicles (PHVs) as well as local Black Cabs through one consumer-friendly online platform and apps.

"Ola is excited to announce its plans for the UK, one of the world's most evolved transportation markets," said Bhavish Aggarwal, Co-Founder & CEO of Ola.

"The UK is a fantastic place to do business and we look forward to providing a responsible, compelling, new service that can help the country meet its ever-demanding mobility needs," he said.

Aggarwal said the company will continue its engagement with policymakers and regulators to expand further and build a company "embedded in the UK" and add further transportation options for greater passenger choice in future.

The Bangalore-headquartered company, founded in 2011, is one of the world's largest ride-hailing companies with 1 billion rides each year globally, over 1 million drivers and 125 million customers across 110 cities.

"Ola places drivers at the heart of its approach, providing the industry's leading commissions, resulting in higher earnings and daily payments, the company said in a statement today.

The company's main rival in the UK market is set to be American giant Uber, which also operates a similar ride-hailing and sharing taxi service.

However, Uber has come under some scrutiny in recent months over passenger safety and the treatment of its drivers. It has been banned from some UK cities and had to enter into a legal battle to keep its licence to operate in London. Uber and Ola both have Japan's Softbank among its investors and already compete in India.

With its entry in the UK, Ola said it seeks to "lead the industry" with its approach to passenger safety including Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) screened drivers and processes such as 24/7 voice support, options to share ride details with emergency contacts and in-app emergency features.

"Ola is recognised for its collaborative approach, working with national governments and local authorities, to help solve transport mobility issues in innovative and meaningful ways," the Bengaluru-based company said.

By incorporating local Black Cabs that operate on UK roads, Ola is aiming for a more diverse service than its rivals.

Ola's entry into Britain follows its successful launch in Australia in February this year, where it now operates in seven major cities - Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra and Adelaide.

It said that over 40,000 drivers across Australia have registered since its launch earlier this year and have completed millions of rides.

The company is now inviting drivers in Cardiff, Newport and Vale of Glamorgan in South Wales to register with Ola and make use of an introductory commission rate of 10 per cent for PHVs and 5 per cent for metered taxis.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
India's ride-hailing giant Ola today announced plans to expand into the UK with a "dynamic and responsible" new taxi service, marking its entry into the second global market after Australia.

The Bengaluru-headquartered company, founded in 2011, is one of the world's largest ride-hailing companies with 1 billion rides each year globally, over 1 million drivers and 125 million customers across 110 cities.

This move is the first serious challenge in the UK to market-leading taxi-hailing app Uber, which was founded two years earlier than Ola, has three million drivers and operates in 600 cities in 65 countries.

Ola said it has obtained licences to operate in South Wales and Greater Manchester, and will launch operations in South Wales by September. The company said that it is working with local authorities across the UK to expand nationwide by end of 2018.

Unlike its main American rival Uber, the Indian firm has entered the UK on a platform that will offer passengers the option to hail private hire vehicles (PHVs) as well as local Black Cabs through one consumer-friendly online platform and apps.

"Ola is excited to announce its plans for the UK, one of the world's most evolved transportation markets," said Bhavish Aggarwal, Co-Founder & CEO of Ola.

"The UK is a fantastic place to do business and we look forward to providing a responsible, compelling, new service that can help the country meet its ever-demanding mobility needs," he said.

Aggarwal said the company will continue its engagement with policymakers and regulators to expand further and build a company "embedded in the UK" and add further transportation options for greater passenger choice in future.

"Ola places drivers at the heart of its approach, providing the industry's leading commissions, resulting in higher earnings and daily payments, the company said in a statement.

However, Uber has come under some scrutiny in recent months over passenger safety and the treatment of its drivers. It has been banned from some UK cities and had to enter into a legal battle to keep its licence to operate in London. Uber and Ola both have Japan's Softbank among its investors and already compete in India.

With its entry in the UK, Ola said it seeks to "lead the industry" with its approach to passenger safety including Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) screened drivers and processes such as 24/7 voice support, options to share ride details with emergency contacts and in-app emergency features.

"Ola is recognised for its collaborative approach, working with national governments and local authorities, to help solve transport mobility issues in innovative and meaningful ways," the company said.

By incorporating local Black Cabs that operate on UK roads, Ola is aiming for a more diverse service than its rivals.

Ola's entry into Britain follows its successful launch in Australia in February this year, where it now operates in seven major cities - Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra and Adelaide.

It said that over 40,000 drivers across Australia have registered since its launch earlier this year and have completed millions of rides.

The company is now inviting drivers in Cardiff, Newport and Vale of Glamorgan in South Wales to register with Ola and make use of an introductory commission rate of 10 per cent for PHVs and 5 per cent for metered taxis.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A person died in flash floods in Assam's Hojai district taking the number of flood related deaths in the state to 46, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) said today.

According to ASDMA the latest casualty was reported from Lanka revenue circle.

In one of the worst affected districts of Golaghat, more than 81,000 people have been displaced by the devastating floods, the ASDMA said, adding that till yesterday, over 87,000 people remain affected across the state.

Currently, 110 villages are under water and 6,855 hectares of crop areas have been damaged, it said.

Authorities are running 109 relief camps and distribution centres in the district, where 20,651 people are taking shelter at present, the ASDMA said.

Currently, the Brahmaputra river at Nimatighat in Jorhat and Dhansiri at Numaligarh in Golaghat are flowing above the danger mark, it added.

Massive erosion has occurred at various places in Udalguri and Barpeta districts while embankments and roads have been damaged in Lakhimpur and Udalguri, it said.

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A massive controversy erupted tonight after the Tamil Nadu government rejected opposition DMK's demand for allotting space on the Marina beach for the burial of its leader M Karunanidhi and offered space near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamaraj.

Opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Sitaram Yechury and D Raja, besides actor Rajinikanth backed the DMK's demand and urged the government to allot the leader a space on the famed sands.

Incidentally, the development came on a day when a PIL filed in the Madras High Court seeking to restrain the Corporation of Greater Chennai from permitting any burial of bodies on the famous Marina Beach was dismissed as withdrawn today.

DMK working president M K Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina.

Stalin had also met the chief minister hours before his father's death.

A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications."



Hence, the government is prepared to allot a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

Some reports said the government was reluctant about allotting space for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina as he was not a sitting chief minister.

Former chief minister M G Ramachandran and his protege J Jayalalitha were buried at the Marina beach and memorials to them were erected there. Both were bitter foes of Karunanidhi in

Karunanidhi's predecessor Annadurai was also in office when he died.

DMK cadres held impromptu protests and engaged in sloganeering demanding a place for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina beach even as minor incidents of violence were reported from some parts of the state.

Opposition parties backed the DMK's demand for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi said that like the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa, Karunanidhi was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people and that he "deserves to be given space on the Marina beach."



"Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar (Karunanidhi) was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief," he said in a tweet.

CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury described the denial of burial site at the Marina as "unfortunate."



"This denial of the burial site for Kalaignar is most unfortunate. Thiru (Mr) Karunanidhi deserves his rightful place of rest next to Anna. #Kalaingnar," he said in a tweet.

CPI National Secretary D Raja said Karunanidhi should be given a "honourable last journey".

"DMK as a party and Karunanidhi's family requested for space in Marina. The state government must deal with the issue in a dignified way, accepting the request," he said.

The government, he said, should not create hurdles as it will be a "dishonour" for such a man.

"I appeal to the state govt to accept the request of DMK and the family," he added.

Tamil film industry's superstar Rajinikanth urged the state government to "take all efforts" to lay to rest Karunanidhi near the Anna Memorial on Marina.

"That is the due respect we would be giving to that great man," he said in a tweet.

MDMK and PMK also backed DMK.

Earlier, a PIL filed in the Madras High Court seeking to restrain the Corporation of Greater Chennai from permitting any burial of bodies on the Marina Beach was dismissed as withdrawn.

When the bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G Ramesh and Justice S S Sundar began the day's hearings, petitioner V Gandhimathi made an urgent mention and sought permission to withdraw her plea.

Recording her submission, the bench dismissed the petition as withdrawn.

The petitioner had submitted that the coastal area of Marina was being turned into a burial ground, which not only spoiled the aesthetics but also endangered the ecosystem in and around the beach.

She had sought a direction to the Corporation not to permit burials in the area.

Despite such consequences, permission was given by the authorities for the burial of former chief ministers like C N Annadurai, M G Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa on the Marina, the petitioner said.

If any further burials and resultant construction were allowed at the Marina, it would damage the environment, she had said.

A petition was filed in the Madras High Court in July last year seeking a direction for exhumation of the mortal remains of Jayalalithaa and burying them at a place away from the coast.

Making the plea, an advocate had also opposed setting up of a memorial to Jayalalithaa at the Marina.

In March last year, Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhgaam, a rationalist Dravidian outfit, had also filed a petition in the high court on the issue.

It sought to prevent the government from building a memorial to Jayalalithaa at her burial site.

In April this year, the Madras High Court had dismissed a batch of five public interest litigation petitions on such matters.

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Dubbing the Rafale fighter jet deal as a "scam", opposition parties in Lok Sabha today demanded a probe into it, with the Congress demanding the setting up of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate it.

The demand for a JPC was raised in the Lok Sabha by Congress MP K C Venugopal when he initiated the debate on the Supplementary Demand for Grants for 2018-19 and the demand for excess grants for 2015-16.

He said the House should know about the cost of the Rafale deal and alleged that there was "a major scam".

"We demand a JPC inquiry into this deal," he said.

Objecting to his demand, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey urged Deputy Speaker M Thambi Durai that Venugopal should place the evidence before the House before making any "wild allegation".

Later, Trinamool Congress leader Saugata Roy also said that the Rafale deal was "one of the biggest scandals of independent India."



"The country is going to lose Rs 2,500 crore due to Rafale deal," Roy said, while demanding a "full-fledged enquiry" into the fighter jet deal.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Congress and some other opposition parties today staged a walkout of the Lok Sabha demanding setting up of a joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe the Rafale fighter jet deal.

The issue was raised by the Opposition during a discussion on the first batch of supplementary demands for grants for 2018-19.

"By not replying to the allegations on the Rafale deal, the government has accepted whatever we have said. He (the Finance Minister) has accepted. They should resign," Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said soon after minister Piyush Goyal replied to the debate on the supplementary demands.

"We demand the setting up of a JPC on Rafale deal...we are walking out," he said and led the walkout of Congress and CPI(M) members who were present in the House at that time.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar urged Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to expunge all remarks relating to the Rafale deal.

"It seems that they are not walking out of the House but they will walk away from the 2019 elections," Kumar said.

Earlier in day, other opposition members too demanded setting up of JPC on the Rafale deal, dubbing it as a scam.

Congress MP K C Venugopal, while initiating the debate on the Supplementary Demand for Grants for 2018-19, said that the House should know about the cost of the Rafale deal and alleged that there was "a major scam".

"We demand a JPC inquiry into this deal," he said.

Objecting to his demand, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey urged Deputy Speaker M Thambi Durai that Venugopal should place the evidence before the House before making any "wild allegation".

Later, Trinamool Congress leader Saugata Roy also said that the Rafale deal was "one of the biggest scandals of independent India."



"The country is going to lose Rs 2,500 crore due to Rafale deal," Roy said, while demanding a "full-fledged enquiry" into the fighter jet deal.

During his speech, Jai Prakash Narain Yadav (RJD) also demanded setting up of JPC to probe this fighter plane deal with France.

Quoting a report of Dassault Aviation, the makers of the Rafale aircraft, Rajiv Satav (Cong) said when Qatar and Egypt have got these planes at Rs 1,319 crore, the government should explain why it is buying the aircraft for Rs 1,600 crore.

The entire deal seems to be mired in corruption, it needs to be probed by JPC, Satav said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
More than 10,000 buses operated by the state-run Road Transport Corporation stayed off the roads today following a one-day nationwide motor-vehicle strike called by transport unions to protest the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill.

Besides cancellation of bus services, auto services were also hit at several locations in the city causing inconvenience to office-goers, students and passengers arriving from different cities at railway stations here.

As part of the strike call, members of the Telangana Auto Drivers Union took out a rally from AITUC office in the city holding placards demanding immediate withdrawal of the MV Act Amendment Bill 2017.

Of the scheduled 11,269 buses of Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC), only 418 were operated, an official said.

Similarly, of the 2,820 and 2,212 buses in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad 2,787 and 2,186 buses respectively remained off the roads.

Commuters travelling packed in autorickshaws and some private buses were a common sight in Hyderabad.

The unions had called for a one day strike against 'regressive provisions' of the Motor Vehicles Amendment Bill and rise in prices of petroleum products.

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Over 100 Indian pilgrims were airlifted today after being stranded for three days in Nepal's Humla district on their way back home from the Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage in Tibet.

Out of the 165 pilgrims who were stranded in Humla's Simikot due to bad weather, 110 were airlifted after flights were operated following improvement in weather conditions, according to Indian Embassy sources.

Around 55 pilgrims are still in Simikot and they will be evacuated tomorrow.

The pilgrims were stranded for three days as commercial flights could not operate due to bad weather.

Heavy rains in central and western Nepal have forced domestic airlines to suspend their regular flights.

Last month, more than 1,500 Indians were stranded at various places in Nepal on their way to Kailash Mansarovar and back.

Following the incident, the Indian government on July 5 had issued an advisory for travel to Kailash Mansarovar through the Nepal route.

The advisory had stated that Simikot and Hilsa are places lacking good medical and lodging facilities and therefore, pilgrims should get themselves medically examined before starting their pilgrimage and also carry medicines for up to a period of one month.

Simikot and Hilsa are connected to the rest of the world only by small aircraft or helicopters and there is no other way to travel in and out of these places.

These small aircraft or helicopters can operate only when the weather is absolutely clear, as the terrain and route is extremely dangerous.

The embassy has deputed its representatives at Hilsa, Simikot and Humla for monitoring and taking action in case of emergency.

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Almost 400 migrants were rescued in the Mediterranean as they attempted to make the crossing from Morocco to Spain, Spanish rescue services said.

While the overall numbers of migrants reaching Europe by sea is down from the peak in 2015, Spain has seen a steady increase in sea arrivals that began more than a year ago and has surged in recent months.

Yesterday 458 people, including 13 children, were rescued from nine boats in the Strait of Gibraltar and the Alboran Sea, the two principal sea crossings to Spain, the Spanish coastguard said on Twitter.

Spain has overtaken Italy as a destination for migration after a crackdown by Libyan authorities made it more difficult for migrants to reach Italian shores.

Close to 23,000 people have arrived by sea in Spain so far this year, with 307 dying in the attempt, according to the International Organization for Migration -- more than during all of last year.

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A petition has been filed in the Peshawar High Court seeking deletion of the word 'N' from the Pakistan Muslim League-N party after conviction of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in a corruption case, according to a media report today.

The writ petition was filed by a lawyer who submitted that since the former prime minister had been convicted by the accountability court for 10 years and disqualified for life term from holding public office, the word Nawaz should be deleted from the party's name, The reported.

The petitioner argued that there was no justification for the existence of a political party with the name of Nawaz Sharif after he was found involved in financial misappropriation and corruption by the accountability court.

He pointed out that Pakistan's founder Mohammad Ali Jinnah headed the Pakistan Muslim League after Independence for good governance, development and for the best interest of Pakistan.

The petitioner claimed that the former prime minister Nawaz Sharif divided the party into two parts the PML and the PML-N.

He said Nawaz Sharif was not the founder of PML but had hijacked the party and introduced his PML-N party, which, he believed, was totally wrong and against the party rules.

The petitioner said Nawaz Sharif by using the PML name with the addition of his name got a massive mandate and was elected thrice as prime minister.

He said that Nawaz Sharif was a convicted person and the Supreme Court had declared him disqualified for life and thus, there was no justification for a political party with the name of 'N'.

The petitioner requested the court to issue a direction to the Election Commission of Pakistan to delete/expunge the word 'N' from the PML nomenclature.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A top Pakistani court today approved an application seeking transfer of pending corruption cases against jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and his two sons to any other court, according to media reports.

A division bench of the Islamabad High Court (IHC), comprising Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Miangul Hassan, issued the short order they had reserved earlier today, the Express Tribune reported.

During the course of hearings, the deposed premier's counsel Khawaja Haris had argued that the cases filed by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) against Sharif family members had a common witness -- JIT head Wajid Zia -- while the presiding judge of the accountability court, Judge Muhammad Bashir, had already disclosed his opinion on crucial aspects in all three references.

Haris maintained that the judge had decided on 12 questions of fact in the July 6 judgment in Avenfield Apartment cases which were common in the remaining two cases; Al Azizia and Hill Metal Establishment and Flagship and other companies.

He requested the court to transfer the cases to a judge who can view the facts and propositions of law with a fresh perspective.

Arguing on different types of bias and interests of the trial court's judge, he said there was reasonable apprehension that the judge may have a conscious or unconscious pre-disposition on the factual aspects of the case which are common to all three cases and have been finally and conclusively decided in the Avenfield case, which may tend to prejudice the accused.

Haris' arguments, however, were opposed by NAB's Deputy Prosecutor-General Sardar Muzaffar Abbasi.

Requesting the court to keep the cases before the same accountability court in the interest of justice, he said that Judge Bashir was the senior-most in the subordinate judiciary of Islamabad.

He asserted that since the judge had heard all cases against Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and her husband Captain (retd) Safdar, the remaining cases should also be heard by him.

Sharif, 68, along with his daughter Maryam, 44 and his son-in-law Capt (retd) Muhammad Safdar are serving jail terms of 10-years, seven years and one year respectively in Adiala jail in Rawalpindi, after an accountability court convicted them on July 6 over the family's ownership of four luxury flats in London.

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Pakistan's Supreme Court today ordered former presidents Gen (retd) Pervez Musharraf and Asif Ali Zardari to submit their property details along with an affidavit to the court.

Chief Justice Saqib Nisar, hearing the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) case, said that accountability should begin with the powerful, The Express Tribune reported.

Zardari's lawyer Farooq Naik told the court that both Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto have recently submitted their asset details with the Election Commission of Pakistan in their nomination papers.

The chief justice then remarked that accountability should begin with people in powerful positions and ordered Naik to submit an affidavit containing details of Zardari's assets.

Hearing of the case was adjourned indefinitely.

Zardari served as the 11th President of Pakistan from 2008 to 2013. He rose to prominence after his marriage to Benazir Bhutto in 1987.

Musharraf, the 74-year-old retired general, ruled Pakistan from 1999 to 2008. He is wanted in Pakistan in several criminal cases including in the killing of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto. He has been living in Dubai since last year when he was allowed to leave Pakistan for medical treatment.

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A on Tuesday recommended new framework for resolution of in saying the Reserve Bank's framework, brought in February, "addresses only financial issues, ignoring the whole range of vital issues of electricity sector".

The RBI's revised framework for resolution of has laid down strict timelines after which insolvency proceedings are initiated. The framework terms even a one-day delay in debt servicing as default. The banks are required to ensure resolution plans within 180 days after default. It covers debt exposure of Rs 20 billion or more.

The central government has already recommended extension of the deadline for ensuring resolution plan by another 180 days in its submission before Allahabad High Court earlier this month. The court had stayed the circular for earlier this year.



ALSO READ: Parliament passes bill giving constitutional status to OBC commission

According to a report of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy tabled in Parliament today, about 66 GW of conventional energy is under various degrees of financial stress, which include 54,805 MW of coal based power (44 assets), 6,831 MW gas based (9 assets) and 4,571 MW of Hydro (13 assets). In addition, certain assets from have already been referred for CIRP (Corporate insolvency resolution process) under the IBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code).

The committee noted that the outcomes of the RBI's revised framework with respect to the electricity sector have been very disappointing, with major lenders to IPPs (independent power producers) displaying significant accretion to NPAs (bad loan) and their slippages have exceeded Rs 1.8 trillion in Q4 FY 2018 (January-March 2018), while slippages of 6 major lenders have exceeded Rs 610 billion.

The panel has recommended, "With a view to ensure power security and also to avoid wastage of collective efforts, a new framework should be put in place which safeguards the transient sagging situation of the Electricity Sector and provides the much needed stimulus".

It also said the framework is ignorant as well as unmindful of prevailing reality of the electricity sector and that is why it addresses only the financial issues, ignoring the whole range of vital issues of the electricity sector.

The panel was of the view that the power sector, being the nucleus for growth of Economy and development of the nation, should be protected from this temporary phase of uncertainty so that these power plants can be put to use at the time of need, which is certain to happen sooner than later.

It found that the nominal principles for resolution are more chimerical than practical as on the one hand, it is acknowledged that reasons for stress are not identical, while on the other hand similar and identical tools are taken recourse to remedy the malady.

The panel has recommend that appropriate, relevant and sector specific measures should be explored to address the issue.

"The committee was not convinced with the reasons given by the government to justify their formula for resolution of stress because different ailments can be cured only with ailment specific remedies and if a single remedy is taken as panacea for all maladies and applied uniformly all across, it is bound to be counter productive and is sure to aggravate the problem," it said.

The committee recommend that instead of adopting a sector agnostic approach for stress resolution, more penetrative and sector friendly measures should be adopted.

It also suggested that in the interest of the economy in general and the electricity sector in particular, the revised guidelines should be harmonized and simplified in the real sense.

It also said, "The government should be sensitive to this vital sector of our economy which acts as a core to shoulder the other engines of the economy and thus the Committee postulate that the specifics and realities of the sector should be taken into account for appropriate modulation of the Guidelines".
Parliament today passed a bill to amend the regulations governing the compensation payable for acquisition of immovable property by the Centre for defence and security purposes.

The Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill, passed by the Rajya Sabha on July 18 with some minor amendments, was returned to the Lok Sabha, which today approved them through a voice vote without debate. The amendments included changing the year of the Bill.

Moving the amended bill for passage, Urban Development Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said the Lok Sabha had passed the bill in December last year and the Rajya Sabha had adopted it on July 18.

Among other issues, the bill seeks to amend a provision to allow the Centre to re-issue the notice of acquisition to ensure that the property owner gets an opportunity to be heard.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar met today Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and briefed him about the current crisis in the mining industry and other issues related to the state.

This was Parrikar's first visit to New Delhi after returning from the US, where he underwent treatment for nearly three months for a pancreatic ailment.

Parrikar (62) returned to the state in June.

"Called on the Honble PM Shri @narendramodi ji in New Delhi and briefed him on the mining issue and other development works in the State of Goa," Parrikar tweeted immediately after meeting the PM.

The CM was accompanied by Union Minister and North Goa MP Shripad Naik, Rajya Sabha member Vinay Tendulkar and South Goa Member of Parliament Narendra Sawaikar.

The state's mining industry has been shut since March 16 this year after the Supreme Court, in an order in February, cancelled 88 leases and banned extraction of fresh iron ore.

To solve the crisis, the Goa Assembly on August 3 passed a resolution urging the Centre to suitably amend the Goa, Daman and Diu Mining Concessions (Abolition and Declaration as Mining Leases) Act, to allow mining leases in the state to be operational till 2037.

The resolution also wanted the Union government to amend the Mines and Minerals (Regulation and Development) Act in order to give mining leases in Goa a 50-year tenure of operation.

The mining sector is a key source of revenue for the Goa government and thousands of people are dependent on it for their livelihood.

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People are saving up to 90 per cent on medicines, surgicals and consumables under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), Parliament was informed today.

As on July 31, 2018, 3,894 PMBJP Kendras are functional in 34 states/UTs of the country, Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilisers Mansukh L Mandaviya said in a reply to a question in the Lok Sabha.

"Generally generic medicines are less expensive. Medicines, surgicals and consumables under the PMBJP are providing 50-90 per cent savings to all," he added.

For 36 products, the savings are between 90-99 per cent, while for 130 products, savings are between 80-90 per cent, he added.

The savings for 73 products are between 70-80 per cent, while that are between 60-70 per cent for 80 products. The savings are between 50-60 per cent for 383 products under the scheme, Mandaviya said.

"In order to ensure good quality of medicines under the PMBJP, medicines, surgicals and consumables are procured from more than 150 private drug manufacturers (WHO-GMP compliant) and surgical suppliers, quite a few of which are procured from Central Pharma PSUs," he added.

Apart from procurement, each batch of drugs is tested at laboratories accredited by 'National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories' (NABL). Only after passing the quality tests, the medicines are dispatched to PMBJP Kendras, Mandaviya said.

On the other steps taken by the government to ensure the quality of generic medicines, Mandaviya said: "Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have taken various regulatory measures to ensure the quality of generic medicines in the country.

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Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti today took on each other with words -- and emojis -- to trade barbs on the issue of elections for the deputy chairperson of the Rajya Sabha.

Twitter was the battlefield and humour a weapon as Abdullah accused Mehbooba of bargaining with both the Congress-led UPA as well as the BJP-led NDA for her two Rajya Sabha seats ahead of the elections on August 9, while his successor retorted that he was fabricating stories.

Before PDP announced its decision of abstaining from voting, Abdullah tweeted, "@MehboobaMufti has told the Congress she will support the UPA candidate for #RajyaSabha Vice Chairman. She's also told the BJP she will support the NDA candidate. How does that work exactly?"



Mehbooba, who had to resign in June this year after BJP pulled out of the alliance government, replied on her verified Twitter handle with a Pinocchio emoji, complete with a long nose, to depict a lying face.

She followed it up with a tweet saying, "Usually fake and falsehoods are peddled by dubious channels. But it's baffling when a politician like @OmarAbdullah fabricates stories based on pure fiction. Such dangerous propaganda is detrimental to the truth and an attempt to mislead people."



The National Conference leader responded with a smiling face and said, "Hats off to who ever operates your account for you. They actually have a sense of humour. Nice emoji use."Replying to Mehbooba's claim about fake news, he added, "Fake you would have ignored as I always do with your pronouncements.

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A Cessna aircraft carrying seven passengers overshot the airstrip while landing and hit a boundary wall in Sri Ganganagar district of Rajasthan today, officials said.

All the passengers and crew were safe, they said.

"The incident occurred during the landing of the aircraft which arrived at Lalgarh from the Sanganer airport of Jaipur," SHO, Lalgarh Police Station, Tejwant Singh said.

He said all the seven passengers, the pilot and the co-pilot were safe.

The plane overshot and hit the boundary wall at the time of landing, he said adding it was around 1755 hrs.

A representative of Supreme Airlines, which operates the flight service, said the pilot could not land properly due to the presence of birds on the airstrip and the plane overshot.

Flight service between Jaipur and Sri Ganganagar was started last month as part of an intra-state air connectivity project of the state government.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi today described DMK president M Karunanidhi as a deep-rooted mass leader who stood for regional aspiration and national progress and will travel to Chennai tomorrow morning to pay his last respect.

Karunanidhi died at 6.10 pm at the age of 94 after prolonged illness.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said the DMK leader was one of the leading and longstanding politicians of our country who left a mark of his own during his long public life of about 80 years including 56 years as member of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.

The Prime Minister's Office said Modi will leave for Chennai in the morning and return by evening. The meeting of the Union Cabinet slated for 1 pm is likely to be postponed. There is no word so far whether it will be held in the evening or on Thursday.

Usually, on the demise of a big leader, the Union Cabinet passes a resolution condoling the death.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadu's voice was effectively heard," Modi said in his tweets.

He said that he had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi on several occasions and his understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out.

He was firmly committed to democratic ideals and his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered, Modi said.

"We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," he said.

"My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.

The Vice President said Karunanidhi was a multifaceted personality and a gritty fighter and had overcome several challenges during his long stint in public life.

"Being a member of the state Legislative Assembly 13 times since 1957 from seven different constituencies and Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for five times speaks for his deep connect with and influence over the people of the state," Naidu said in his message.

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The legal woes of the once powerful Sharif family is mounting with a Pakistani anti-corruption court today declaring PML-N President Shahbaz Sharif's son-in-law a 'proclaimed absconder' in a graft case.

Former prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif is currently in jail after an Accountability Court sentenced him, his daughter and son-in-law over the corrupt practices over the purchase of four luxury flats in London in the 1990s.

Sharif was ousted from his third term as prime minister by the Supreme Court last year following a corruption investigation stemming from the Panama Papers case.

Pakistan's anti-corruption body has also summoned the beleaguered chief of the PML-N party and former Punjab chief minister Shehbaz Sharif to appear before it on August 20 in a housing scandal case.

Now, an accountability court in Lahore today declared PML-N President's son-in-law, Imran Ali Yousaf, a proclaimed absconder on the request of National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

Yousaf is accused of receiving graft in excess of Rs 12 million from Ikram Naveed, the former CEO of the Punjab Power Development Company (PPDC), and is the subject of a NAB probe, Dawn newspaper reported.

He appeared before the NAB investigators in April but has since missed his scheduled hearings and is currently in London.

The bureau, which last month requested the interior ministry to extradite Yousaf via Interpol, today told the accountability court that "warrant of arrest against the accused has been issued by NAB chairman".

"As per IO (investigation officer), the accused has gone underground and is not traceable."



Following this, the bureau asked the court to declare Yousaf a proclaimed absconder a request that was accepted, the report said.

Quoting a source, report said the then Punjab Chief Minister's son-in-law was also accused of "getting Naveed appointed as PPDC CEO who allegedly committed massive corruption. The NAB is quizzing Yousaf on the information provided about him by Ikram Naveed."



The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) had already carried out a probe against Naveed and Yousaf in 2016. It declared Naveed guilty of embezzling Rs 450 million.

The ACE in its investigation found that Naveed had purchased 19 properties in his and his family members' names and also unearthed his and his family members property worth over Rs 1 billion. The property has been attached and their bank accounts frozen, the report said.

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A special court here today granted bail to Shyam Sunder Wadhwa, vice president of fugitive Nirav Modi's Firestar Group, in the Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam.

Wadhwa was arrested under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in March.

Special PMLA court judge M S Azmi granted him bail on a surety of Rs 1 lakh.

The ED had alleged that Wadhwa was a "close confidant" of Modi and was instrumental in setting up two companies in Hong Kong (Ms Aura Gem and Ms Sino Traders) with dummy directors.

These firms were used for laundering the proceeds of the PNB fraud, it had claimed.

The CBI had registered cases against Nirav Modi, his uncle and owner of Gitanjali Gems Mehul Choksi and several others including PNB officials for cheating the bank to the tune of USD 2 billion by obtaining Letters of Undertaking (LoU) fraudulently.

An LoU is a guarantee given by the issuing bank which is used to get credit from overseas banks.

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Police in Maharashtra are gearing up to prevent violence during the Bandh (shut-down) called by Maratha organisations demanding reservations on August 9, an official said here.

There would be a heavy deployment of security personnel, especially in sensitive pockets where violence had taken place during the agitation earlier, a senior police official said.

The Union Home Ministry has provided additional security forces to the state.

"We had demanded 15 companies. But the Centre has sent seven companies -- six of Rapid Action Force (RAF) and one company of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)," the official said.

The state police force has a strength of two lakh including the State Reserve Police Force personnel, he said.

Home Guards too will be deployed to assist police, he said.

"People will be allowed to stage protests peacefully. We are appealing people not to take law into their hands and not to believe any kinds of rumours," he said.

If they find any suspicious activity, it should be reported to the police immediately, he said.

There would be video shooting of protests. These videos and CCTV footage will help police identify criminals and mischief-mongers who may try to take advantage and indulge in violence, the official said.

Marathwada and Western Maharashtra as well as Navi Mumbai and Thane near Mumbai had witnessed maximum violence during the Bandh called by Maratha organisations last month, he said.

Between



July 18 to 27, 276 cases of violence were registered across the state during the quota agitation. There were incidents of stone pelting at over 250 places and 198 incidents of arson, he said.

More than Rs 4.5 crore-worth public and private property was damaged within 10 days, the official said.

The politically dominant Maratha community is agitating for reservation in jobs and education. Maratha organisations have called for a new round of protests from August 9.

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West Bengal Minister Partha Chatterjee today urged the agitating students of the Presidency University to call off their sit-in which entered the fourth day, and said work for renovation of the old hostel building should have been completed on time.

The students have been holding an indefinite sit-in inside the campus demanding that they be alloted rooms in the Hindu Hostel, which is under renovation since 2015.

Had the renovation work of the hostel building been completed on time, the situation might not have come to such a pass, Chatterjee told reporters.

The Hindu Hostel, adjoining the College Street institution, had been shut down for repairs on July 29, 2015 and 150 boarders were shifted to a rented accommodation at New Town, which is around 18 km from the university.

The Presidency authorities had last year assured the students that all the six blocks of the hostel would be opened for the boarders after completion of renovation work by the first week of August.

Chatterjee expressed hope that the students would call off their agitation saying it is not helping the university gain reputation.

"In the given circumstances I hope the renovation work (of Hindu Hostel) by the PWD is completed at the earliest and the boarders shifted there," he said.

Vice Chancellor Anuradha Lohia yesterday met the agitating boarders and said every effort was being made to complete the renovation work at the earliest but the state PWD has informed the authorities that it would take more five months to complete the work.

Ujan, a spokesman of the agitators and member of Independent Consolidation (IC) students' union, said the students will not withdraw the stir till getting accommodation in the Hindu Hostel.

The students had been protesting in the corridor outside the registrars office since 2 pm on August 3.

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The Maharashtra government cleared today a proposal to rope in private landowners to collaborate with state-run housing agency MHADA to implement the Pradhan Mantri Aawas Yojana (PMAY) in urban areas.

Under the proposal, cleared by the Cabinet, the MHADA (Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority) will form joint ventures with interested private landowners to execute the Centre's flagship scheme of providing low-cost homes to the urban poor, Housing Minister Prakash Mehta said.

Private landowners having more than 10 acres of land are eligible to participate in the scheme, he said.

The MHADA will construct houses for economically weaker sections and lower income groups. Of the total housing units, 35 per cent will be given to landowners and 65 per cent to the MHADA, Mehta told reporters after the Cabinet meeting.

"The landowners will have the option to take the housing stock or cash," an official in the housing department said.

JV projects can be taken up in areas falling under all the 382 municipal corporations, councils and nagar panchayats, the Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Development Authority, the Pune and Nagpur Regional Development Authority, the CIDCO, the MSRDC, the Nagpur Improvement Trust and the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area jurisdiction, he said.

"Such projects will be given an FSI of 2.5," said an official in the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).

Floor Space Index (FSI) FSI is a tool that defines the extent of construction permissible on a plot. It is the ratio of the buildable area to the total plot area.

In another decision, the Cabinet cleared a proposal to undertake steps to increase bamboo production and create employment opportunities, the CMO official said.

A new company will be set up for the purpose, he said.

The firm, Maharashtra Bamboo Promotion Company, will help in development of bamboo clusters besides design and sale of bamboo products, he said.

A model village will be constructed to promote use of bamboo for housing, the official said.

Last year, the Centre omitted bamboo grown in non- forest areas from the definition of trees. This would help in exempting it from requiring permits for felling or transportation.

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A few foreign-based and fringe elements have issued threat messages and posted video containing threats to political leaders in India, the Lok Sabha was informed on Tuesday.

Union Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir said this in a written reply to Congress MP Sunil Jakhar.



"The government of India is closely engaged with the governments of the concerned countries to address our concerns relating to anti-India activities being undertaken by such elements from these countries," Ahir said.

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Screening of films in Priya Cinema where a fire had broken out during night show on Sunday would be closed for a few days more as the probe into the incident was still on, fire brigade officials said here today.

Director General of Fire Services Jagmohan said screenings at the theatre would begin only after its got clearance from the fire department and it might take a few days more.

"We have asked the theatre owners to send us a report about the incident and fire safety measures taken on their part including specifying the number of exit gates," Jagmohan told reporters today.

"Besides, we are going through the findings of our own team besides going through report of other agencies," he said.

Fire Services Minister Sovan Chatterjee said it was being examined if there was any lapse on the part of anyone including the hall owner.

The government would take every step to ensure safety of the audience and those visiting the restaurants functioning on the ground floor of the theatre, he said.

Priya Cinema owner Arijit Dutta said screening would begin after getting clearance from the fire services.

He reiterated that the theatre followed all safety regulations laid down by fire services and other public utilities.

The fire had broken out at the movie theatre in Deshapriya Park area of south Kolkata during a show of a Bengali film on August 5 at around 10:15 pm.

Cinemagoers had managed to exit after smoke filled the auditorium in the middle of the show. Four members of Dutta's family and a staff member were trapped on the roof, but were evacuated safely by fire brigade personnel



There was no report of any casualty.

The minister, who had gone to the spot after the incident on August 5, said all angles, including the possibility of the fire originating from a ground-floor food outlet, would be investigated.

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Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb today said he is proud of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for respecting his mother, and appointing two women, Sushma Swaraj and Nirmala Sitharaman, as cabinet ministers.

Addressing a seminar on Gender Sensitisation here, Deb said the country where people respect their mother is the best country in the world.

"I am proud of Prime Minister Narendra Modi because he has immense respect for his mother. I also feel proud of Modiji because he appointed two women, Sushma Swaraj and Nirmala Sitharaman, in his cabinet," he said.

"Wherever there is worship of women there is a god. You should respect your mother. In a country where its citizens respect their mother is considered to be the best country in the world," said the chief minister.

Criticising the erstwhile Left Front government, Deb claimed that they tried to destroy tradition, culture, custom and traditions of the indigenous people.

"When society improves, crimes against women stops. The crime against women is now less in Tripura after the BJP-IPFT government came to power. Society will be educated only if when a mother is educated," he said.

He said his government had a target of providing one lakh gas connections thorough Ujjala Yojona to poor women and that target was fulfilled within 100 days after coming to power.

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi will address party leaders and members at a meeting here on August 11.

Rajasthan Congress president Sachin pilot briefed party leaders about Gandhi's programme at a meeting here and gave necessary directions for preparations.

Gandhi will leave for the meeting venue from the airport soon after his arrival, Pilot said.

On the way to the meeting venue, which is yet to be finalised, Gandhi will be welcomed by the party workers at a few places, he said.

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BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha today called upon the Muslims in the country to come forward in support of the NRC in Assam and said TMC's opposition to it was an attempt to divert attention from its "failures".

There is a clear demarcation between refugees and infiltrators, he said.

Those coming to India due to religious persecution in Bangladesh such as Hindus, Christians and Buddhists are refugees and those who are in the religious majority in that country but are still coming to India for the sake of employment and benefits of economic development are infiltrators, Sinha added.

"I urge upon the Indian Muslims, especially those living in Bengal, to come forward and support a NRC like exercise in the state too. West Bengal is becoming a hub for infiltrators under the Trinamool Congress rule.

"We have to stop it as infiltrators are taking our jobs, foods and employment," the BJP national general secretary said.

Sinha said Mamata Banerjee had changed her stand on the issue of illegal immigrants and she was trying to divert attention from her "failures" as the chief minister of the West Bengal.

He claimed that Banerjee as the chief minister of Bengal was a "complete failure".

In all aspects -- be it law and order, industry, employment generation or health --the TMC government and the chief minister are "complete failures", Sinha said.

Now that the Lok sabha election is nearing, she wants to divert attention to win it, he alleged.

The complete NRC draft of Assam was released on July 30 and excluded the names of over 40 lakh people.

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Milos Raonic posted a second Canadian victory on Monday, joining Peter Polansky in the second round of the ATP Toronto Masters after a 6-3, 6-4 defeat of David Goffin.

Vasek Pospisil missed out on a local hat-trick in a night match as the Canadian lost to Croatian Borna Coric 6-4, 6-3 after a three-hour afternoon rain interruption.

Former Wimbledon finalist Raonic, ranked 29th due to an injury plagued 2017, won in his first match since going out in the Wimbledon quarter-finals to John Isner a month ago.

World number 121 Polansky reached the second round for a third straight year, upsetting Australian world number 52 Matt Ebden 7-6 (7/3), 6-4.

As in 2017, when he ran into Roger Federer after winning his home opener, Polansky could again face a Grand Slam champion, with Novak Djokovic lying in wait should the Serb overcome Chung Hyeon.

Raonic sent over his 15th ace as well as a double-fault as he served for the win against 10th seed Goffin, who had no answer to the Canadian's big game.

The Belgian sent a return long to hand Raonic a match point, with the Canadian finishing it all off on his first chance as Goffin sent a forehand into the net after an hour and a quarter.

"It was tough, I was fortunate to find a way to win today," Raonic said. "I was not sure how it would so - I'm glad it went the way it did." The Canadian had to fight to secure the second set, having saved three break points as he served for the opener.

"I'm glad to have gone through that. I'm also glad he didn't make any returns. This was a good win, but there is another match coming which will create a lot of problems for me.

"Right now, I'm happy with how things are going." In other matches after the bad weather passed, 11th seed Diego Schwartzman crushed Kyle Edmund, the lone Brit in the field after the withdrawal of Andy Murray, 6-1, 6-2.

- Bad weather -



===============



Jack Sock, who has not won a match since before Roland Garros more than two months ago, lost in the first round for a fourth straight event, going down 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 to Daniil Medvedev.

Benoit Paire reined in his fearsome temper to earn a straightforward first-round win after a costly outburst on court last week.

The volatile 55th-ranked Frenchman advanced over American Jared Donaldson 6-3, 6-4 to set up a showdown with top seed Rafael Nadal.

Paire exploded in anger last week during a first-round Washington loss to Marcos Baghdatis, destroying three racquets and earning a massive fine of $16,500 (14,300 euros).

Nadal leads the draw with holder Alexander Zverev, the weekend champion in Washington, the second seed.

Federer is skipping the event during the week of his 37th birthday and will return next week in Cincinnati at his only scheduled tune-up event prior to the US Open.

Belarusian qualifier Ilya Ivashka extended his run of weekend success as he beat Japan's Yuichi Sugita 6-2, 6-3. Pablo Carreno Busta advanced when Japan's Yoshihito Nishioka retired after the first set.

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Regional political parties received a total of Rs 91.37 crore in donations in 2016-17, with the Shiv Sena leading the chart followed by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), says a report.

According to the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) report released today, the total amount of donations declared by regional parties, including both under and above Rs 20,000, was Rs 91.37 crore received through 6,339 donations.

"...Shiv Sena leads with Rs 25.65 crore from 297 donations followed by AAP, which has declared receiving Rs 24.73 crore from 3,865 donations. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) declared receiving Rs 15.45 crore that is the third highest amongst all regional parties," it said.

The ADR report, which is based on information submitted by the parties to the Election Commission, showed that 72.05 per cent, or Rs 65.83 crore of the total donations, was received by the three parties -- Shiv Sena, AAP and SAD.

Comparison of donations received by regional parties between 2015-16 and 2016-17 showed that Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), SAD, JDS, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and AAP saw the maximum percentage increase in their income from donations between 2015-16 and 2016-17.

Donations to AGP increased by 7,183 per cent, followed by SAD for which it was 5,842 per cent and Janata Dal (Secular) (JDS) that saw an increase of 596 per cent, the Delhi-based think-tank said in the report.

Amongst the top five parties, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena saw a decline in donations received in 2015-16. Its receivings declined by 70 per cent in 2016-17 to Rs 25.65 crore from Rs 86.84 crore in 2015-16, ADR said.

Of the total donations of Rs 91.37 crore declared by the regional parties, Rs 2.82 crore from 1,919 donations was received in cash during 2016-17.

Maximum donations in cash was declared by All India N. R. Congress (AINRC), which collected a total of Rs 65 lakh, followed by AGP with Rs 41.2 lakh and Naga People's Front (NPF) Rs 41 lakh, it said.

Among states, donors from Assam made the highest donations of Rs 72.7 lakh in cash followed by Puducherry at Rs 65.3 lakh.

Donations worth Rs 60 lakh in cash did not have address details. The report further said that 6 regional parties NPF, Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), DMK, Bodoland People's Front (BPF), Shiv Sena and AGP have received such donations in 2016-17.

Regional parties declared receiving the highest amount of money or Rs 20.86 crore from Delhi, followed by Rs 19.7 crore from Maharashtra and Rs 9.42 crore from Punjab, the report added.

It further said that 35.67 per cent or Rs 8.82 crore of the total declared donations to AAP was received from abroad.

A total of Rs 14.38 crore could not be attributed to any state/union territory due to incomplete or lack of information provided by the parties, the report noted.

On disclosure of PAN details in donations, the report said that Rs 23.08 crore or 25.26 per cent of the total amount of donations received by regional parties do not have PAN details.

"AAP declared receiving Rs 8.82 crore from abroad out of which PAN details are not available for donations amounting to Rs 8.32 crore," ADR said.

Under Section 29C(1) of the Representation of People's Act, 1951, political parties are required to prepare a report providing details of contributions in excess of Rs 20,000 from any person in a particular financial year to avail 100 per cent tax exemption.

In its recommendations, ADR said that the national and regional parties should, ideally, lead by example by filing complete and correct statements of donations to the ECI well in time for public scrutiny so as to encourage financial transparency.

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Australia's population was due to hit 25 million today, renewing debate about overcrowding and infrastructure pressures in major cities as the government explores ways to encourage migrants into regional areas.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics projects that the population is growing by one person every 83 seconds and is due to reach the milestone figure at 1300 GMT.

It will mark a doubling of the number of people since 1970 who call Australia home.

The population rose by 388,000 last year and about 60 percent of this was due to immigration by people with special skills or family visas.

Despite Australia's huge size, about 90 percent of new arrivals settle in Melbourne and Sydney, the government said, prompting a fresh debate on its approach to migration as cities fill up.

"There are some areas that are feeling population pressures but there's other regions in Australia that are actually crying out for more people," Citizenship Minister Alan Tudge told broadcaster ABC.

"We need a better distribution of migration across Australia because nearly all the migration is going to Melbourne and Sydney at the moment."



Tudge wants migrants to look outside the country's two largest cities to state capitals and regional hubs where he said there were better chances of finding jobs.

The minister added the government was considering levers in its visa allocation to promote regional migration, but did not go into detail.

"We do have an ability to provide additional encouragement, indeed conditions, on people as to where they go," he said.

"So that is what we are exploring, and that is why we are having discussions with the South Australian premier and elsewhere." Overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure is a major issue in Australia, as state governments jostle with Canberra over planning priorities and funding.

The 25 million milestone has provided fodder for all sides of the political debate, with experts warning that a lack of coherent planning is limiting potential.

"Many individual towns and cities across the country are trying, best they can, to cope with population growth, stimulate population growth, or, for some, curb population loss," said Curtin University geographer Amanda Davies.

"Without a national framework to bring this knowledge and effort together, opportunities are being missed.

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Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has asked the Railway Minister and the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh to initiate an enquiry into the death of a young man from Arunachal Pradesh who died after falling from a train in Uttar Pradesh on August 3 last.

Tage Dule from Ziro in Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh fell from a train in Uttar Pradesh on August 3 last and later succumbed to his injuries.

Expressing concern over the tragic incident, Rijiju, the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, immediately took up the matter with the Railway Minister and Uttar Pradesh chief minister with request for investigation to ascertain the circumstances and facts that led to the death of the youth, a government press release said here today.

Rijiju also sought action against the culprits, if there was any malafide intent.

The minister sought that the probe should ascertain whether the incident is related to discrimination against the North-East people, it said.

While condoling the death of the youth, Rijiju also asked the Uttar Pradesh government and the Ministry of Railways to extend all necessary support to the family members of the deceased, the release added.

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Opposition Aam Aadmi Party and Samajwadi Party today forced a pre-noon adjournment of proceedings in the Rajya Sabha over alleged sexual abuse of young girls at a shelter home at Deoria in Uttar Pradesh.

AAP member Sanjay Singh and MPs belonging to the SP vociferously raised the issue after Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu said he has disallowed a notice under Rule 267 that called for setting aside of proceedings of the day to take up the issue.

Naidu said he would allow the issue to the raised as a Zero Hour mention but this did not satisfy members who continued to raise the issue.

Trouble broke soon after the House mourned the death of its former member R K Dhawan and listed papers were laid on the table. Sanjay Singh was up on his seat raising the issue, with SP members joining him thereafter.

Naidu warned Singh that he would name him before adjourning proceedings till 1200 hours.

In a scandal similar to the one in a Muzaffarpur shelter home in Bihar, 24 young women were rescued from a shelter home in Deoria after allegations of sexually exploitation of inmates.

Earlier, the House mourned the death of Dhawan, who passed away yesterday at the age of 81.

Reading an obituary reference, Naidu said Dhawan was a political and social worker who represented the state of Andhra Pradesh in the Upper House from April 1990 to April 1996 and Bihar from July 2004 to July 2010.

"In passing away of Shri R K Dhawan, the country has lost a distinguished parliamentarian and a dedicated social worker. We deeply mourn the passing away of Shri R K Dhawan," he said.

Members stood in silence as a mark of respect to the departed soul.

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Janata Dal (U) president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today spoke to his Odisha counterpart Naveen Patnaik seeking the BJD's support for his party candidate in the election to the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman.

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) spokesman Sasmit Patra said Patnaik will take a decision on the BJD's stand in the matter tomorrow.

"Kumar has requested our chief minister to support JD(U) MP and NDA candidate Harivansh Narayan Singh in the the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman election," Patra told reporters here.

The deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha will be elected on August 9.

BJD has nine members in the Rajya Sabha. Support of the Odisha centric party in the ensuing poll would be crucial as neither the NDA nor the UPA have clear majority in the House.

The current strength of the Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members is required for a candidate to win the polls.

When contacted Harivansh Narayan Singh told PTI over phone from New Delhi that "we are seeking everybody's support".

JD(U) General Secretary K C Tyagi said his party's leaders are in touch with all the parties to seek support for Harivansh for the post.

The BJD, headed by Patnaik, has been claiming that the regional party maintained equal distance from both the Congress-led UPA and the BJP-led NDA.

"BJD's nine votes is considered as crucial for both the fronts," pointed out a senior party leader, adding that Patnaik would take the final decision tomorrow in this regard.

However, keeping the recent warm relation between the BJD and the BJP, political observers feel that Patnaik may go with the NDA in wake of calls he has been receiving from saffron leaders.

Recently, BJP president Amit Shah had praised BJD for its support in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) issue. The BJD was the only political party other than the BJP which had supported NRC.

Earlier, the BJD had also supported the NDA during the presidential elections, demonetisation, GST and other issues despite its claim of maintaining equal distance from both the Congress and the BJP.

The post of the deputy chairman, Rajya Sabha, is lying vacant since July after retirement of PJ Kurien.

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Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today received calls from leaders across the political spectrum for his party's support in the election to the post of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman, with the callers including BJP chief Amit Shah, NCP's Sharad Pawar and Nitish Kumar of JD(U).

The leaders telephoned Patnaik. The Odisha chief minister is in Mumbai for a meeting with captains of the industry tomorrow, BJD sources said.

JD(U) president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was the first to call Patnaik seeking the BJD's support for his party candidate Harivansh Narayan Singh in the election to the post, a BJD leader said.

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) spokesman Sasmit Patra said Patnaik, the BJD president, will take a decision on the party's stand in the matter tomorrow.

"Apart from Kumar, BJP president Amit Shah, NCP leader Sharad Pawar and Union Minister Rajnath Singh called Patnaik seeking the BJD's support for the August 9 elections," Patra said.

Sources said Pawar has requested Patnaik to support the opposition's candidate in polls.

The deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha will be elected on August 9.

BJD has nine members in the Rajya Sabha. Support of the Odisha's regional party in the ensuing poll would be crucial as neither the NDA nor the UPA have clear majority in the Upper House of the Parliament.

The current strength of the Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members is required for a candidate to win the polls.

The BJD, headed by Patnaik, has been claiming that the regional party maintained equal distance from both the Congress-led UPA and the BJP-led NDA.

"BJD's nine votes is considered as crucial for both the fronts," a senior party leader, adding that Patnaik would take the final decision tomorrow in this regard.

Recently, Shah had praised BJD for its support in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) issue. The BJD was the only political party other than the BJP which had supported the NRC.

Earlier, the BJD had also supported the NDA during the presidential elections, demonetisation, GST and other issues.

The post of the deputy chairman, Rajya Sabha, is lying vacant since July after retirement of PJ Kurien.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The SAD today said it would support any candidate put up by the NDA for the election to the post of deputy chairman Rajya Sabha.

The election will be held on August 9.

SAD chief Sukbhir Singh Badal said there is no question of abstaining or not supporting the NDA's official candidate for the post.

Badal said this after a meeting with BJP chief Amit Shah tonight at the latter's residence.

"The Akali Dal is standing rock solid with the BJP. It would support any candidate the NDA fields for the post," he said.

When asked if there was any move to abstain from voting, as reported by a section of the media, Badal said, "There is no question of abstaining.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court today directed the Ministry of Women and Child Development to place before it the data of social audit and survey conducted at around 3,000 shelter homes across the country.

A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur, while hearing the case of alleged sexual abuse of girls in a NGO-run shelter home at Muzaffarpur in Bihar, was informed by the Centre that a survey was conducted in around 3,000 shelter homes about infrastructure, facilities provided as well as staffs there.

Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand, appearing for the Centre, said that the National Commission For Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has got the survey done and the final report was under preparation.

"Whatever data is available with the Ministry of Women and Child Development should be placed on record," the bench, also comprising justices Deepak Gupta and K M Joseph, said.

During the hearing, when Anand told the bench about the social audit of these institutions, the bench asked, "what about the time frame".

Anand said that she would get instructions about it and place the details before the court about the time line and the agency involved in the process.

"In the Muzaffarpur case, the Government of India has issued advisory to the Bihar government. We (Centre) are also contemplating that in cases where NGOs were involved in such activities, the funds will be stopped," she said, adding, "We are equally concerned about this".

The bench said that it would be better to have a proper monitoring system to check the day-to-day activities in such shelter homes run by NGOs.

The apex court also said that issuing advisory to the states would not serve the purpose as states might say that they would not follow it.

The bench said that stopping funds would perhaps not solve the problem too as it would be difficult to identify the institutions which were not being run properly.

Advocate Aparna Bhat, assisting the court as an amicus curiae, told the bench that no compensation has been paid to any of the girls who were allegedly raped and sexually abused in the shelter home at Muzaffarpur.

"One of these girls, perhaps a mentally challenged child, is missing," she said, adding that around 40 girls were rescued from the shelter home and they were placed in other shelter homes.

She also raised the issue of minor victims of sexual assaults being repeatedly interviewed and said this should not be allowed.

The bench asked, "is this report (social audit report of TISS) made public?"



Advocate Vrinda Grover, appearing for Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), said that report was with the Bihar government.

Senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, appearing for Bihar, said that the report of TISS has not been made public yet.

"Why? Is there some official secret in it?" the bench asked.

Kumar said that TISS report was given to Bihar government on May 26 and on May 29, girls were shifted from Muzaffarpur's shelter home to other protection homes. He said that FIR was lodged in the matter on May 31.

He also said the state was making all efforts to trace the missing girl.

During the hearing, the amicus told the court that counselling of these girls was going on.

Grover said that out of 110 institutions in Bihar, grave concern have been raised against 15 such shelter home run by the NGOs which were funded by the state.

Kumar said that action has been taken against all such institutions.

The bench accepted the suggestions of the amicus who said that mental health aspect of these girls should be left to be addressed by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) Bangalore while AIIMS Patna should deal with the clinical and medical aspect.

The amicus also suggested that social aspect related to these girls, including their rehabilitation, should be addressed by TISS. The bench accepted the suggestions.

The apex court said that authorities of these three bodies -- NIMHANS Bangalore, TISS and AIIMS Patna -- should prepare a course of action that they propose to take in the matter and place it before the bench within 10 days.

The apex court, which posted the matter for hearing on August 14, has taken cognisance of the Bihar incident following a letter by a Patna-based man.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court, which expressed concern today over incidents of rape in the country by observing that women are being raped "left, right and centre", has asked all the print, electronic and social media not to publish or display photos of victims of sexual abuse even in blurred or morphed form in any case across in the country.

The apex court also warned against interviewing minor victims of sexual abuse saying it has serious mental impact.

It asked the Centre to apprise it on steps proposed to be taken to prevent sexual abuse of minors in shelter homes across country.

It said that victims of child sex abuse can only be interviewed by members of National Commission For Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and State Commissions For Protection of Child Rights in presence of counsellors.

The apex court also pulled up the Delhi Commission for Women for trying to intervene in the Bihar shelter home case and said that no politics should be involved in the matter.

Earlier in the day, a bench comprising justices M B Lokur, Deepak Gupta and K M Joseph came down heavily on the Bihar government for funding the NGO which ran the shelter home in Muzaffarpur where girls were allegedly sexually abused.

The bench, during the hearing in the morning, referred to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data and said that every six hours, a woman is raped in India.

It referred to the NCRB data and said 38,947 women were raped in India in 2016.

Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), which conducted an audit of shelter homes, told the court that out of 110 such institutions in Bihar, "grave concerns" have been raised about 15.

To this, the Bihar government told the apex court that nine cases of sexual abuse have been lodged involving these 15 institutions run by various NGOs.

Over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the shelter home run by Brajesh Thakur, the chief of the state-funded NGO.

The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls was first highlighted in an audit report submitted by TISS to the state's social welfare department in April.

An FIR was lodged against 11 people, including Thakur, on May 31. The probe has now been taken over by the CBI.

In all, sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in their medical examination, while two others who were unwell were yet to undergo medical tests.

The TISS audit report stated that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse. A special investigation team was formed to probe the complaints.

The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani.

Women staff members of the shelter home and Thakur were among those who were arrested by the police in connection with the case.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court today slammed the Nitish Kumar-led government in Bihar over allotment of public funds to NGOs running shelter homes in the state and their usage saying "money is being given without even verifying the credentials of the organisation".

The top court asked the state government what action it has taken against 15 such welfare institutions, which were red flagged by Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS) as under "grave concern".

A bench of justices M B Lokur, Deepak Gupta and K M Joseph said that the Bihar government is giving money without checking what is being done of that funds.

"Government is giving money without knowing what is done of that money. You (Bihar) have been giving money without even verifying the credentials of that organisation. No one knows what they are doing and how they are utilising the funds," the bench said.

During the hearing, senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, appearing for Bihar, said the Muzaffarpur shelter home which was run by an NGO came into existence in 2013 and the social audit was conducted in 2017.

Advocate Vrinda Grover, appearing for TISS, said that such social audit is done by just talking to the staffs but not the inmates of shelter homes.

She said that TISS has conducted social audit of 110 welfare institutions across 38 districts in Bihar and the court can treat it as a benchmark for conducting audit of such establishments.

She said that out of the social audit of 110 welfare institutions which included adoption agency, short stay homes for women, old age homes, rehabilitation centres for destitute, children homes, observation homes, open shelter, home for children with mental retardation, 15 such homes were found to be under "grave concern".

Grover, who submitted the finding of the social audit in sealed cover, said that the audit report was released on May 26 by the department of Social Welfare.

The bench asked Kumar as what action has been taken against these 15 institutions flagged by TISS as under "grave concern".

He replied that nine FIRs have been lodged where allegations of sexual abuses were there.

"Out of these nine cases, one FIR which relates to Muzaffarpur shelter home the case has been transferred to CBI and arrest of all the accused except one has been effected," Kumar said.

He said that departmental actions has been taken against the remaining six institutions as the allegations were of minor offences.

Kumar said that he would like to file a detailed affidavit considering all aspects like rehabilitation, counselling, compensation to the victims, future course of action and the status of other such institutions.

He informed the court that even UNICEF is also helping in counselling and rehabilitation of the victims.

The apex court had take a suo moto cognisance of the Bihar incident after a letter was written by Patna-resident Ranvijay Kumar highlighting the issue of repeated interviews of the alleged victims of the Muzaffarpur shelter home being published and aired.

Over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the shelter home run by Brajesh Thakur, the chief of the state-funded NGO.

The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls was first highlighted in an audit report submitted by TISS to the state's social welfare department.

An FIR was lodged against 11 people, including Thakur, on May 31. The probe has now been taken over by the CBI.

In all, sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in their medical examination.

The TISS audit report stated that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse. A special investigation team was formed to probe the complaints.

The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani.

Women staff members of the shelter home and Thakur were among those who were arrested by the police in connection with the case.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
BSP president Mayawati today welcomed the passage of The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018, even while saying that this happened "under pressure" ahead of the elections.

The bill overturns a Supreme Court order concerning safeguards against arrests under the SC/ST law.

"Though the bill in this regard, brought after a lot of delay with an eye on the coming elections in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan was passed by the Lok Sabha, we hope that it will also be passed by the Rajya Sabha," the BSP president said in a statement.

The BSP supremo gave credit for the passage of the bill to the pressure built by the SC/ST communities, including her party men who participated in the April 2 Bharat Bandh.

She attacked the Dalit and adivasi ministers and the ruling party MPs, saying they had remained silent on the issue but started shedding crocodile tears as the Lok Sabha elections are drawing near.

Without taking names, the BSP leader criticised Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan.

She said one such minister, who forged alliances with different parties in every election, was forced to announce a sit-in to compel the government to act against the dilution of the SC/ST Act by the Supreme Court.

The BSP president said her party has always been in favour of reservation for the poor from the upper castes, Muslims and other minority groups, and would extend support if the government brings a constitutional amendment bill on this.

The amendment bill passed in the Lok Sabha yesterday removes the safeguards ordered by the top court on March 20.

It provides that no preliminary inquiry will be required for registering a criminal case and an arrest of a government employee under this law would not be subject to any approval from the appointing authority.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Supreme Court will tomorrow hear a plea alleging that Talib Hussain, a key witness in the sensational Kathua gang rape and murder case, is being tortured by the Jammu and Kashmir police in a fake rape case.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices D Y Chandrachud and Indira Banerjee considered the submission of a close relative of Hussain, seeking urgent hearing on the plea.

A habeas corpus (produce the body) writ petition has been filed by the cousin of the witness. It alleges that Hussain has been kept in illegal detention and being subjected to custodial torture.

Hussain's family alleged that he is being tortured in police custody in a fake rape case.

Senior advocate Indira Jaising, counsel for the petitioner, later said Hussain has been subjected to torture in Sambha in the state and they are seeking "judicial intervention" in the matter.

The apex court has transferred the trial in the Kathua gang rape and murder case to Pathankot after taking note of the plea of the father of the victim apprehending threat to the family.

Hussain is a key witness in the Kathua gang rape case, in which an eight-year-old girl from a minority nomadic community disappeared from near her home in a village close to Kathua in the Jammu region on January 10. Her body was found in the same area a week later.

The state police's Crime Branch, which probed the case, filed the main charge sheet against seven persons and a separate charge sheet against a juvenile in a court in Kathua district. The charge sheet has revealed chilling details about how the girl was allegedly kidnapped, drugged and raped inside a place of worship before being killed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting today announced the third edition of Santoor Women's Scholarship programme to help poor girl students pursue a degree of a minimum three-year period.

The scholarship rolled out in collaboration with 'Wipro Cares' is offered to the students from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka.

Each student is awarded of Rs 24,000 per annum.

"Santoor Scholarship is a platform for empowering underprivileged girls by providing them with the financial support necessary for completing their graduation.

We hope the girl students will come forward and use this opportunity," senior general manager of Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting S Prasanna Rai told reporters here.

The scholarship was first offered in 2016 as an annual programme and it has so far benefitted 1,800women, Rai said.

Each year, 900 students are offered the scholarship, he said.

To qualify, the student must have passed her grade 10 and 12 from a government school/college.

Applications for this year are available with all the government junior college principals across the three States, he said adding students can also apply online on www.santoorscholarships.com.

The last date to submit the application is September 15, Rai added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An act of bravado landed five people behind bars after pictures of them posing with a king cobra they caught went viral on social media.

The five men, residents of a village near Gudalur in the neighbouring Nilgris District, were arrested today on charges of torturing the reptile, police said.

Allegedly under the influence of liquor, they had on August 4 caught the cobra from a tree in their locality and taken selfies after putting it on their shoulders.

The five men had taken several selfies with mobile phones in different postures, torturing the reptile, police said.

Later, they shared the pictures in facebook.

Based on complaints from wildlife activists and public, the forest department carried out investigations and detained the five from Cherampadi area today and handed them over to local police.

A case had been registered against them for torturing the snake, police said adding a search was on for one more person, allegedly involved in the incident.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Shiv Sena today said it will support the NDA's nominee in the election for the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman's post.

BJP president Amit Shah called his Sena counterpart Uddhav Thackeray today and sought support for the August 9 election, Sena's Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut said here.

"Amit Shah called up Uddhav-ji today and sought Shiv Sena's support. We have decided to give our support to the JD(U) because the post of deputy chairman is apolitical," he told PTI.

Janata Dal (United) MP Harivansh Narayan Singh has emerged as the ruling National Democratic Alliance's candidate for the post.

The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since June this year following the retirement of P J Kurien, who had been elected to the Upper House on a Congress ticket from Kerala.

The Congress today said its nominee will be the joint candidate of the Opposition.

The name of NCP's Vandana Chavan was discussed by opposition leaders as their candidate, the NCP was not too keen on fielding its member, leaders said earlier in the day.

The current strength of the Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in the full House.

The BJP is the largest party in the House with 73 members. Among its allies, the JD(U) has six MPs while the Shiv Sena and the Akali Dal have three each.

The BJP is also hoping to get support of four of the six Independent members and three of the four nominated members.

The Congress has 50 members.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
BSE Sensex retreated from record levels to end marginally down by 26.09 points at 37,665.80 today in a volatile trade as investors booked profit in recent gainers such as Reliance Industries, Adani Ports and SBI.

The broader NSE Nifty extended its record run for a third straight session, edging up by 2.35 points or 0.02 per cent to close at new peak at 11,389.45. Intra-day, it hit a new high of 11,428.95 and a low of 11,359.70.

The Sensex opened with gains and rallied to a fresh life-time high of 37,876.87 in early trade. However, it succumbed to profit booking, before finally ending at 37,665.80 points, down by 26.09 points, or 0.07 per cent. The Sensex swung about 300 points on alternate bouts of buying and selling during the volatile session.

Investors rushed to book profits in range-bound trade, led by PSU, oil & gas, energy, infrastructure, telecom, realty, healthcare, bankex, FMCG, capital goods and power counters.

Top losers included Adani Ports, Coal India, SBI, ONGC, Sun Pharma, Tata Motors, Bharti Airtel, Axis Bank, M&M, RIL, ICICI Bank, TCS, HDFC, ITC, Bajaj Auto and Power Grid, falling up to 6.49 per cent.

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 248.709 crore, while domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) made purchases worth a net of Rs 218.64 crore yesterday, provisional exchange data showed.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The sextoy market is growing quite rapidly in India right now.

Although it is not a big trend, it is a hot topic on the internet as it is secretly expanding its market.

In this article, we will focus on sextoy and introduce recommended sextoy for Indian beginners of sextoy by gender.

India, the birthplace of the Kama Sutra, is very strict about sex.

Also, premarital sex is basically not allowed. Therefore, there are many people who are sexually restricted.

But what happens when you continue to be sexually restricted?

Frustration may build up and you may end up taking your sexual stress out on your partner.

If you are able to adopt sextoy in a timely manner, you can get rid of those problems.

I want to have more exciting sex than Im having now.

I want more variation in masturbation

I want to get even stronger pleasure than I do on my own.

If you have any of these problems, please stay with me until the end.

What is sex toys for Indian?

Sextoy, as the name implies, is a toy used during sex and masturbation.

It is a generic term for vibrators, Egg-vibrators, Electric massagers, dildo, handcuffs and condoms.

They are used to make regular sex more exciting or to make masturbation more pleasurable.

Because sextoy is very stimulating, it can help you to get rid of the problems and frustrations of being in a rut of sex with your partner for a long time, or if you are unhappy with the lack of pleasure in sex with your partner.

The ability to satisfy your desires with movement, texture, and size, which cannot be done by a normal human being, can help you to be satisfied with sex and, as a result, improve your relationship with your partner.

It is also said to help improve sexual dysfunction (inability to get an erection or ejaculate) and difficulty in feeling during sex (insensitivity), which is attracting more attention than in the past.

In recent years, the demand for sextoy has increased due to the spread of smartphones and the Internet and the increasing number of people using online shopping.

Even those who are concerned about the appearance of sextoy (and find it difficult to purchase) can now easily obtain it by using mail order.

In the case of online shopping, most of the stores have taken steps to ensure that the contents of the products delivered to you are not revealed, so you can purchase them without your family members knowing.

Until a while ago, you had to go to the store where the adult goods were sold to buy them, so it was quite a hurdle to overcome.

Also, many people may have an image that sextoy is somehow embarrassing to own.

But nowadays, some of them are so stylish and cute that you cant believe they are sextoy at a glance.

More and more people are using them for travel and outdoor use because they are not too bulky and are suitable for carrying around.

Sextoy situation in India

Before introducing the recommended sextoy for Indians, lets talk about one of the sextoy situations in India in recent years.

In India, due to the high concentration of population, the following six cities have particularly high sales of sextoy in India.

Mumbai

Kolkata

Bangalore

Delhi

Chennai

Hyderabad

These cities account for roughly 70 percent of sextoy sales in India.

In the future, the percentage of sextoy use will gradually increase in other cities in India as well.

If you never talk about sextoy publicly, that girl in your neighborhood might be a sextoy user too.

If you are interested in sextoy, you dont have to suppress your desire for it.

What are Sextoys for beginner?

Among all sextoys, sextoy for beginners are vibrators, dildo, masturbators, Sex Lubricants, and condoms.

Sex Lubricants and condoms, which are familiar to people who have had sex, are also a great beginners sextoy.

I will explain the details of each toy later, but there are many sextoy products that are painful to use and can only be used after some anal expansion.

I assume that the Indian readers of this article are people who have not had much experience with sextoy.

If such people use professional sextoy suddenly, they are at risk of injury or trauma.

Therefore, to introduce sextoy, you need to start with a beginners version and gradually become familiar with it.

Advantages of using sextoy for Indians

There are three advantages of using sextoy for Indians

You can masturbate in a wide variety of ways.

Can have stimulating sex

Can develop new sexual zones

If you try to masturbate with your own fingers or hands, it tends to be a pattern.

However, with sextoy, you can easily masturbate in a variety of ways.

You will definitely be fascinated by the attraction of new stimulation.

Also, your daily sex life will be more exciting than ever.

There are many things in sextoy that are visually stimulating and give you a strong and intense feeling of pleasure.

This allows you to see your partners promiscuity in a way that you wouldnt normally see it.

When you are in a relationship, sex with your partner may become a pattern, but it can also eliminate these problems.

It can also lead to the development of new sexual zones (which is the training of sexual stimulation to allow you to feel orgasms).

For more information on the development of new sexual zones, see the following articles

[Women's Erogenous Zone]How to find and develop, 7 hidden sexual zones !![In India] In this issue, we will dissect the female erogenous zone! ..." Many of you may be like that. Men, in particular, shou...

Thus, the use of sextoy can only be a good thing for the men and women of India.

Sextoy for beginner men in India

So, lets continue with the recommended goods for Indian sextoy beginners.

For ease of understanding, we will introduce them by gender. Lets start with the men!

The following five goods are recommended for novice Indian sextoy men

Masturbator

Cock rings

Love Doll

Sex Lubricants

Toys for the prostate

Lets check each one in detail.

Masturbator

The masturbator is a sextoy for men that elaborately reproduces a womans vagina, mouth, and anus, and is one of the most popular sextoy products.

It is used by men to masturbate, and it is popular because it provides stronger stimulation and pleasure more easily than using hands.

Most are made of good quality silicone, and their softness is something that cannot be achieved with ones own hands.

They can provide stronger pleasure than a real womans vagina, so be careful not to overuse them. (You wont be able to have an orgasm in a womans vagina anymore.)

Again Male masturbators are a wonderful toy. I do not need any favourite timing, bothersome bargaining. You do not have to worry too much.

Revolutionize your masturbation time! ! !

Made in Japan is a wonderful kinky toy.#sextoysindia #SexToyIndia #Japanhttps://t.co/4k70QGzoTP pic.twitter.com/tRVdxTKPpa   SEXToys India PR  (@SextoysIndia) November 12, 2018

Some of them are disposable, while others can be washed and used over and over again, so its fun to buy a few to use depending on your mood.

If you want to know more about masturbator, please click here

Really pleasant male masturbation and how to do it Are you in a rut with your daily masturbation routine? I'm going to show you five ways men masturbate that you might ...

[For Beginners] How to choose and use a male masturbator without fail Gentlemen.Have you ever used a masturbator? The person who sees this article is probably the one who has not experien...

Cock Ring

A cock ring is literally a ring-shaped sextoy that is worn on a mans penis.

It maintains an erection by binding the penis with a ring of rubber and blocking blood flow.

It is sometimes used as an accessory to be worn on the penis, and may be made of metal or plastic as well as rubber.

In some cases, cock rings have parts or vibrators attached to them that stimulate the vagina, so they kill two birds with one stone, giving a woman pleasure while maintaining an erection.

Cock rings are also sometimes used to treat erectile dysfunction.

It can help with erectile dysfunction, where the penis doesnt get hard when you get an erection or doesnt last long when you try to insert it.

Men who are prone to breakage or who are unsure of the hardness and size of their erections can use a cock ring to increase the size of their penis and maintain an erection for a longer period of time.

Cock rings vary in price from around RS700 to over RS2000 with a vibrator function.

Some of them do not fit your penis, so you should check the size of the cock ring before you buy.

You should know the size of your partners or your own penis when it is erect.

[Penis enlargement] What is a cock ring? Types and usage Cock rings can make your penis bigger and harder. It also makes sex with women more fulfilling and increases your sat...

Love Doll

Love dolls, also known as Dutchwives, are dolls with the appearance of a woman who can experience simulated sex.

There are dolls that look like a woman, but they have no face and only have their breasts and lower torso cut off, and some dolls are so realistic that they can actually be mistaken for real women.

Some expensive dolls can cost more than 1 million yen, and the quality of the doll is easily influenced by the price.

The higher the price, the higher the quality of the doll will be, the closer it will be to the real woman, and the cheaper the doll will be, the less elaborate it will be, making it look like a real doll! Something is wrong! That is also true.

You cant go wrong if you choose a balance between price and taste.

There are stores that allow you to make custom-made love dolls, so you can create a girl of your choice.

You can make a girl of your choice. You can start with inexpensive love dolls at first, and once you get used to it, you can try custom-made love dolls.

If you want to know more about Love doll, please click here

Thorough explanation of the charm of sex dolls! Have you ever heard of sex dolls that are used primarily for pseudo-sex purposes? It is a doll that is quite close to...

Sex lubricants

Sex lubricants are used as a substitute for lubricating fluid during sex or as a lubricant for men to use masturbator rules.

It is not uncommon for women to have difficulty getting wet, depending on their physical condition, or to have difficulty getting wet due to their constitution.

Forcing the penis into the vagina at such times can cause painful intercourse.

There are various types of Sex Lubricants, some with a warming effect, some with a cooling effect, and some with a scent.

Changing the Sex Lubricant used during play is recommended as a good sex accent.

If you want to learn more about Sex Lubricants, click here.

What is sex lubricant?Explain the difference and usage of each ingredient The word "sex toy" may seem like a hurdle to overcome, but lotion is actually one of the most familiar sex toys. Many...

Toys for the Prostate

Another sextoy for men is prostate toys.

The most famous prostate toys include Enemagra, which was originally a prostate massager developed by an American urologist to treat an enlarged prostate line.

Modern prostate toys are imitations of Enemagra that have spread as sextoy for men.

Many people think of prostate toys as being used by gay men, but in fact they are often used by straight men.

What is the prostate?

The prostate is an organ found only in men. It is a walnut-sized organ located deep in the pelvis, just below the bladder, and its primary role is to protect and nourish sperm.

You cannot touch the prostate gland from outside the body, but you can touch it by inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus.

By inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus and touching the prostate and developing it, you can feel intense orgasms.

Orgasms felt in the prostate are mainly dry orgasms, which are orgasms that do not involve ejaculation. (You can also feel orgasms with ejaculation through prostate stimulation.)

The prostate is called the male G-spot, and dry orgasms can be much more intense than ejaculation.

Therefore, men who are able to develop a prostate can become addicted to the pleasure.

sextoy for beinner women in India

The following are the recommended goods for Indian women who are new to sextoy.

The following three are recommended for use by women who are new to sextoy.

Vibrator.

Dildo

Electric Masserger

Lets check out what each one is in detail.

If you want to check out womens toys, click here.

[BEST25]Sex Toys for Women in IndiaThat Can Help You Have an Orgasm There are many women who pretend to feel orgasm during sex. But don't worry, you don't have to pretend to feel orgasm...

Vibrators

A vibrator is a sextoy that vibrates with an Egg-Vibrator to provide stimulation and is often referred to simply as a vibrator.

Some vibrate as well as rotate, and there are many variations of sextoy.

It is quite a popular sextoy, and is well recognized by people who do not know much about sextoy.

Its usage is similar to that of a massager, but it is more compact and easier to carry than a massager, and many of them look as cute as a lipstick or a macaroon, so they are popular among women.

For a while, a famous influencer on twitter said, This is good! You may have heard of the topic of this article by introducing the recommended vibrators.

Vibrators are great for women to use on their own, but they are also recommended for men who have difficulty satisfying women with sex.

Since it is powered by electricity, it is far less tiring than moving your hands by yourself.

This makes it easier to satisfy a woman with sex because you can caress her for longer than usual.

Vibrators are mainly used on the female side, but they can also be used on men.

When used on men, they are used to attack the nipples and glans, and in both cases it is recommended to wear a condom for hygiene reasons.

Introducing how to use the vibrator, its purpose, and how to choose it! Vibrator uses the vibrations caused by the rotation of the motor to provide stimulation. It is one or two of the most...

Dildo

A dildo is a model sextoy made to mimic a male penis.

It can be made of silicone, elastomer (think of it as a material similar to PVC), metal or glass.

A dildo can be used by a man for his female partner during sex, or by a woman for masturbation to get pleasure from it.

They are mainly inserted into women, but some can be used in the male anus as well.

It is sometimes used synonymously with vibrators, but the vibrator is not the same thing as a vibrating device.

A model of a penis that does not vibrate is a dildo.

Some of them have suction cups that can be attached to the floor or wall so that you can enjoy realistic masturbation without using your hands.

For fun, there is a dildo made in the shape of your partners penis.

This one is also popular as a gift, and if youve been together for a long time and are having trouble finding a gift for your partner, you might want to pick one.

To learn more about dildo, please click here.

What is Dildo: Orgasms with Dildos for Men and Women A dildo is a model of a male organ that is used by women for masturbation and by men to stimulate the prostate gland. Th...

Electric Masserger

A Electric Masserger is a hand-held electric massager, also known as a handheld massager, and can usually be purchased at electronics stores.

It was originally designed to relieve stiff shoulders and back pain, so the hurdle of buying one in a physical store is quite low.

Many people may have seen or used it in some form or another, as it is often installed in leisure hotels.

Such a massager is highly recommended for beginners because it is easy for women to get pleasure from it when they use it during masturbation.

It is larger than Egg-Vibrator and vibrations are stronger than those of Egg-Vibrators and vibrators, so even just hitting the clitoris can give you a great deal of pleasure.

For those women who have never had an orgasm during sex with their man, the massager may be a good way to get a feel for what it feels like to have an orgasm.

It looks and feels like an electric massager, so you wont have to feel awkward if your roommate finds out.

If you are in a rut of having sex with your partner, if you want to feel an orgasm through masturbation, or if you are thinking of using a sextoy, why dont you try it from a simple massager?

To learn more about Electric Masserger, click here.

What is a massager? Introducing types, selection methods, and usage Originally, the Magic-wand vibrator and the massage machine were sold as a home massage machine used for the back and th...

How to choose a sextoy for Indian

Now that weve covered the different types of sextoy, heres how to choose one.

Especially if you are trying sextoy for the first time, pay attention to the following three points:  Does the size fit you (the partner)?

Does the size fit you (your partner)?

Is the environment able to produce sound without problems?

Price range

First of all, the choice of size is quite important.

Most sextoy are used against or inserted into the genitals, but the genitals are very delicate organs for both men and women.

For this reason, using an inappropriate size may cause damage.

Secondly, the environment should be able to produce sound without problems.

Some sextoys not only wear, but also rotate and vibrate. Its easier to get pleasure from something that moves than something that doesnt, but the fact that it moves means that the internal rotors make some noise.

If you live in a house with thin walls or if you have roommates, you may not be able to concentrate because of the noise, so it is best to choose one that is silent or has a low noise level.

Especially in India, where many people live with their families, it is very important that you dont have to worry about sound when you use it.

Finally, there is the price range.

The price range of sextoy ranges widely, from around RS500 at the cheapest to RS10,000 or more at the highest.

Its good to consider how much money you can afford and how much you want to buy.

Do you want your family to not find out about sextoy?

I live with my family and want to use sextoy without them finding out! If you are a man, you should buy a camouflage sextoy that does not look like a sextoy at first glance.

For men, there are many masturbators that do not look like a sextoy, and for women, there are vibrators that only look like cosmetics.

If you choose such a type, youll be safe in case your family members find out.

How to buy sextoys in India

The best way to purchase sextoy is through online shopping.

For more information on how to purchase sextoy, please see the article below.

Sextoy is one of them.

Therefore, you can easily get sextoy in India by using online shopping.

SexToysINDIA is a long established and stable sextoy store and you can have sextoy delivered to any place in India.

They also offer cash on delivery, so those who are worried about shopping with a credit card do not have to worry.

Of course, the latest security is in place, so your information will not be taken out when you use your credit card.

To begin with, many people may be concerned about whether they are legally allowed to purchase sextoy.

ikmAs it turns out, its not illegal.

Right now, it is not open to the public because the Indian adult market is still in the development stage, but it will gradually spread from now on.

Take advantage of sextoy and open the door to new pleasures and culture.

Cautions for Indians using sextoy

When using sextoy, keep the following three things in mind

Keep sex toys clean

Watch out for electrical leakage

Beware of the heat generated by the body while using a sex toy

As I mentioned earlier, many sextoy products are used for the delicate zone.

Therefore, it is most important to keep the sextoy itself clean. It is very important to keep the sextoy itself clean, because if a slight scratch is created by friction, bacteria can enter and breed there.

It is safe to wear a condom when using the masturbator, just in case.

In addition, many sextoy devices are powered by a power source, so if they are not waterproof, there is a possibility of electric shock or malfunction due to wetness.

Some may even develop heat during continuous use. If the fever becomes too much, you may get burned, so be careful.

If you get a fever during use, stop driving the sextoy immediately and refrain from using it.

You will enjoy sex more if you keep it safe and use it correctly.

Summary

What did you think?

In this article, we have introduced the recommended sextoy for the beginners of sextoy in India.

The sextoy market is growing rapidly in India and it will continue to grow steadily in the future.

As India is a rather closed-minded country, it can be difficult to be open about ones sexual habits and values.

However, being faithful to ones desires by properly dissolving ones sexual desire is very effective for ones physical and mental health.

If this is your first time to learn about sextoy, or if you are interested in using sextoy, why not give it a try?

Indian Sextoys for ur best! will introduce you to sextoy and other trivia about sextoy, sexuality, and sexuality for men and women.

I want to read more! If you think its a great idea, please bookmark it.
Vociferous protests by Trinamool Congress members over NRC and other issues today disrupted BJP President Amit Shah's speech on farmers' issues, forcing the premature adjournment of the Rajya Sabha.

The House, which had functioned smoothly during the first half of the day, saw its proceedings disrupted soon after Shah initiated a short duration discussion on increase in MSP of kharif crops and challenges facing in the agriculture sector.

The Upper House was adjourned twice in quick succession after the lunch break before calling it a day, even after NDA allies and other opposition parties including Congress, BJD, SP, AIADMK, JD(U), Shiv Sena among othersinsisted that the debate be continued.

Shah had spoken barely five minutes when his speech was disrupted by TMC members who trooped into the Well raising slogans and demanding that their privilege notice under Rule 267 that prescribes suspension of all business to take up a matter, be admitted.

This prompted Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu to chide them and asking them not to disrupt the debate on a "burning issue".

Initiating the debate, the BJP chief said the NDA government had taken several steps to boost agriculture and a huge budget has been allocated during the period 2014-2018.

"The budget for agriculture sector has been increased by 75 per cent in the last four years. During 2009-2014, the budget on agriculture was Rs 1,21,082 crore. It has been increased to Rs 2,11,394 in 2014-2018," he said.

The government has allocated Rs 5,000 crore for drip irrigation, Rs 10,000 crore for dairy, Rs 2,000 crore for agri market, Rs 7,550 crore for fishery and Rs 1,450 crore for animal husbandry, Shah said.

On the government's goal of doubling farmers' income by 2022, Shah said there were many apprehensions on how it will be achieved.

"But the government took everyone's views in a positive way, framed schemes and is working on them," he said, adding that the target of doubling farm income was not "mere words."



On the contribution of the agriculture sector to the gross domestic produce (GDP), Shah said "if you look at GDP figures, the contribution of agriculture to GDP is 15 per cent. If you add jobs the sector generates, then the sector's contribution to the GDP is 42 per cent."



During his speech, the TMC members came into the Well raising slogans, prompting Chairman M Venkaiah to ask the protesting members not to disrupt the House and maintain order. The TMC members were however unrelenting in their protest.

"You can't come to the Well of the House and take the House to ransom. The entire House wants to discuss farmers' issue," Naidu said and cautioned the TMC members that he would be forced to name them under Rule 255.

But the members insisted that their notice be taken up as they have the "democratic right" to raise issues.

A visibly upset Naidu said "When the discussion has started and in between the debate, you get a mood and suddenly stand up and say. This is not the way."



As the noisy scenes continued, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Goel said "a party with 5 or 10 members jump into Well and not allow BJP president to speak. This is not democracy. When you (TMC members) are named (by Chair) and still Shah speaks, can you shut his voice? Farmers and agriculture issue is important."



Goel also told them to participate in the debate and "not to do "



Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad sought to know why the TMC was stopping the BJP chief to speak on the farmers issue.

"Why are they stopping the debate. This is new trend in the House. The ruling party's President, who is also a member of the House, is not being allowed to speak."



Naidu urged members not to make "fun of democracy" and called out the names of the protesting TMC members standing in the Well of House and asked them to return to their seats, but they kept raising slogans.

The Chair took the opinion of several party leaders on the matter.

Congress leader Anand Sharma said "unfortunately, members are agitated on some issue and the Chairman has said discussion can take place tomorrow. But members are not satisifed. Once the House is back in order, we can resume discussion. We are very much for the discussion."



Prasanna Acharya (BJD) said "I don't deny that what they are saying is an important issue. Equally, this is also an important issue. Let the farmers issue be discussed today and allow them to bring their issue tomorrow. Let us not prevent discussion on the plight of the farmers."



Ram Gopal Yadav (SP) said the issue of debate was important, as also the issue raised by the TMC members. "The Chair has given assurance that it will be allowed tomorrow. ... I feel the debate should happen."



Ramchandra Prasad Singh (JD-U) said "it is unfortunate that when the debate has started, other various issues are raised. If this is the way, then House will not function."



Naresh Gujral (SAD) said "I come from a farming state and it is important that farmers issue is discussed. I am surprised that we are not willing to discuss the issue."



Sanjay Raut (Shiv Sena) said the debate should continue, while D Raja (CPI) said the farmers issue is important and needs to be debated.

However, as the slogan-shouting continued, Naidu adjourned the House twice. When it resumed at 3 pm, he said that some members are "divided" on the issue of debate on farmers issues even though it was unanimously agreed.

"Still members of one political party come to the well and shout slogans and defy the chair, I have no other way but to adjourn the House," he said and adjourned the proceedings for the day.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Uttar Pradesh minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi today admitted laxity by Deoria administration in shutting down the shelter home from where 24 girls were rescued, saying the district officials were aware about the closure order but allowed the facility to operate for more than a year.

The admission of laxity by the state women and child welfare minister came a day after Union minister Maneka Gandhi said she feared that there could be more cases of sexual abuse of minor girls at shelter homes.

The 24 girls from the Deoria shelter home were rescued on Sunday amid allegations that they were sexually exploited. Another such case has came to light from Muzaffarpur in Bihar.

"In June last year, an order was issued for the closure of the shelter home and district magistrate was informed but it was not followed. At least 15 notices were given to the Deoria district magistrate for closure of the shelter home and shift inmates elsewhere. Five letter were sent from Directorate level... Certainly, there was laxity at local level," Joshi told reporters.

About the two-member team of Additional Chief Secretary Renuka Kumar and ADG Anju Gupta probing the matter, Joshi said, "The team has taken statements of inmates and checked records. The records and statements of the shelter home operators are contradictory."



"When order was issued for its closure (last year) there were 28 inmates there, now it had 23 including 20 girls and three boys. The records of the NGO says they had 42 inmates. The attempts are on to trace remaining ones. It will be done in next 24 to 48 hours," she added.

Deoria superintendent of police yesterday told media that 24 girls were rescued from the shelter home. But the mystery remained about the rest of the girls mentioned in the shelter home register.

"We are doing unbiased probe in the matter and those found guilty will not be spared. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is monitoring the probe. I will be meeting him this evening and after the probe report action will be taken," Joshi said.

The minister also appeared to shift partial blame on the previous BSP government. Joshi said the NGO which ran the shelter home - Ma Vindhyavasini Women Training Evam Samaj Seva Sansthan - was given government work in 2010, when the BSP was in power.

"It was made girl, child centre, child home, adoption centre and given more work between 2010-2014 during the previous SP and BSP governments."



She alleged the child working committee, entrusted with the task of inspecting such shelter homes were constituted during the SP dispensation and "wrong persons" were made its members.

"We are going to initiate action against 70 members... Those involved in discrepancies are now doing agitation. Had we not been sensitive, we would not have lodged FIR and arrested the accused," she said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Senior Congress leader and former Law Minister Kapil Sibal said today that lowering the seniority of Justice K M Joseph during his elevation to the Supreme Court will be marked as a "black day" in the court's history and the judiciary needs to do some soul searching.

He also hit out at the government accusing it of arrogance.

"Justice K M Joseph's downgrade in his elevation to the Supreme Court today will be marked as a black day in the history of the Court.

"Smacks of arrogance of Government and capitulation by Court. The Judiciary needs to do some soul searching," he said on Twitter.

Justice K M Joseph took oath as the judge of the Supreme Court today along with Justices Indira Banerjee and Vineet Saran amid a row with the Centre over his seniority being lowered on his elevation.

His elevation put an end to a protracted stand-off between the Centre and the judiciary, but the former's decision to lower his seniority despite his name being first recommended months before the other two judges created a fresh row.

Judges including members of the collegium comprising Justices M B Lokur, Kurian Joseph and A K Sikri met Chief Justice Dipak Misra yesterday to raise their concerns on the seniority issue regarding Justice K M Joseph.

The judges were reported to be of the view that there was a need to sit together and ponder over the issue.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Sikh community in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province is all set to get an exclusive primary school for their children's with the administration initiating the process for the same, officials said today.

The Sikh community at Mohallah Jogan Shah in Dabgari area had recently approached the KP government, requesting it to set up a school for their children.

Following the request, the government decided to set up a primary school for the minority community in the area. The department has already started the process for the same, officials of the District Office said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A 19-year-old Sikh man was shot dead outside his home and his cousin was injured by unidentified persons in an apparent targeted shooting in Canada, police said.

Gagandeep Singh Dhaliwal, who was known to local police but had no criminal records, got home on Sunday with his family following a wedding reception. He then went to the garage to hang out with his cousin, and it was at that time when the shooting started, his family was quoted as saying by the Global

The Abbotsford Police Department said officers responded to a report of shots fired at a home around 11:30 PM. Upon arrival, they found two men who had been shot.

Dhaliwal was pronounced dead shortly after arriving in hospital and his cousin is in hospital receiving treatment, the report said.

His cousin, who is "roughly the same age" as Dhaliwal, is expected to survive. The injured man has not been identified, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) said in a statement.

"It's not clear what the motive was but investigators believe the shooting was targeted," Corporal Frank Jang with the IHIT said.

"Whenever, you know, some person or persons decide to discharge or fire a gun in the community, there's always that concern that it could hit someone else. In this case we believe the bullets hit their target. We believe Dhaliwal was targeted for murder," he said.

Jang said they believe "an unknown person approached the residence and shots were fired but have not yet determined a motive.

"Right now, it's too early to tell if it's gang-related or drug-related or a personal conflict with somebody," Jang said, adding that no arrests have been made so far.

Family friend Jaskarn Singh Dhaliwal said All of sudden, someone came over and started shooting them.

"Something went wrong and when, why, we have no clue yet. Police are working on it. His family tried hardest to keep him on track. The family is in shock. The whole community is in shock."



Dhaliwal was working as an electrician's apprentice.

The incident has rattled neighbours, who said there had not been any problems at the home before.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Six people, including a woman, were injured in a violent clash between two groups of the same community in Muzaffarnagar district, police said today.

Police said the clash broke out last evening over a minor dispute in Rehakda village.

The injured have been admitted to a hospital.

Fourteen people have been booked in connection with the incident.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Six men, including a Bangladeshi national, have been arrested for allegedly firing on a police team and injuring an officer, during their dacoity bid, foiled by the police late last month in east Delhi's Preet Vihar area, the police said today.

The accused were identified as Islam (32), Ikram (30), Sohail (28), Harun (46), Appan (40) and Suttan Sheikh.

The police also recovered from them two country-made pistols, two empty cartridges, gold jewellery, two mobile phones, two knives and one Bangladeshi passport and several house-breaking instruments, said Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Pankaj Singh.

He said on the intervening night of July 26 and 27, the police were informed of the presence of some suspected thieves in G Block of Preet Vihar, following which they rushed to the spot and found the miscreants trying to enter a house.

Accosted by the police, they tried to run away but one of them were nabbed by Assistant Sub Inspector Lokesh, following which the miscreants began grappling with him and hit on his head with a pistol's butt to have their associate freed.

As the ASI did not yield, one of them opened fire on the police, injuring the ASI and managed to flee and disappear into the darkness along the adjoining railway tracks, said the DCP.

The police later found their bag near the railway tracks, he said, adding that the contents of the bag yielded vital clues about them, following which several police teams were formed and sent to different places.

One of the teams managed to nab Ikram near Kanpur Central Railway Station and on his revelations, his two other accomplices, Islam and Sohail, were arrested, the DCP said.

The police subsequently nabbed three others - Appan, Suttan and Haroon from Ghaziabad and Delhi respectively.

On interrogation, the arrested accused confessed that Ikram knew well of Preet Vihar topography and was in contact with Bangladeshi men both in Delhi and in Bangladesh. He roped in other members of the gang to commit thefts and dacoites,the DCP said.

On July 5, the gang had committed a dacoity in a house at Preet Vihar, the DCP said, adding that on the intervening night of July 26 and 27, they were again planning to commit the crime in the area.

The investigations have revealed they had recently committed dacoities in Kerala and Bangalore too, he added.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Justice Raghubir Das Commission of Inquiry probing the missing keys of the Ratna Bhandar of Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri has received affidavits submitted by the chief administrator of the temple and the Puri District Collector.

Justice Das after holding the third sitting of the commission here today said it has received three more affidavits.

"The chief administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Puri District Collector and one Raj Kumar Mohanty of Puri has submitted affidavits. The commission had earlier received four affidavits. After going through all the seven affidavits, the commission will decide to pass necessary orders within seven days," Justice Das said.

In April this year, the Puri district administration had informed the SJTA that the keys to the inner chamber of the Ratna Bhandar were missing following which the state government came under severe criticism.

The Odisha government set up the judicial commission on June 6 and asked it to submit its report within three months.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Sri Lanka's main Opposition leader R Sampanthan today said the ethnic Tamils have faith in President Maithripala Sirisena that he will deliver a new constitution to address their political grievances.

Addressing a gathering in the eastern port town of Trincomalee in Sirisena's presence, the senior Tamil leader said the minority community expects that the process of formulating a new constitution would be successful.

"There is no need to do anything in secret. It is a very open exercise," Sampanthan said, referring to Opposition's criticism that a draft of a new constitution had been secretly hatched by Sirisena's government to appease the Tamils.

"Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa pledegd to go beyond the 13th amendment by giving 13 plus in his own words," Sampanthan said.

The 13th Amendment to the Constitution of Sri Lanka created Provincial Councils in the country.

Sirisena, who was backed by the Tamils against Rajapaksa in the presidential election of 2015, launched the process to formulate a new constitution to replace the existing 1978 constitution.

However, the process got stalled much to the disappointment of Sampanathan's Tamil National Alliance (TNA).

The moderate Tamil party has come under pressure from Tamil hardliners for their inability to achieve anything meaningful for Tamils despite supporting Sirisena in 2015 against the Sinhala majority favourite Mahinda Rajapaksa.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The St Xavier's University today started an MBA course under its Xavier's Business School with 80 students.

The residential MBA course is being offered in four streams, University Vice-Chancellor Father Felix Raj told reporters here.

"From today we are offering the MBA course which will be for two years and today is the first day," Raj said adding that the university has got the approval of the All India Council of Technical (AICTE) to run the course.

He said industrialist Sanjiv Goenka, an alumnus of the St Xavier's College and School, has been associated with the project.

Goenka said "It is very inspirational for me to come and interact with these youngsters on the first day."



Raj also said the university was planning to start a law course in a couple of years.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today announced that the state government would directly transfer Rs 10,000 into the bank accounts of all the weavers with a view to provide a working capital to them.

"The state government will provide all possible help to weavers so that they don't face any problems. The government would directly transfer Rs 10,000 into the bank accounts of all the weavers with a view to provide a working capital to them. For this, 6727 handlooms have been identified," Kumar said.

Weavers will also get money directly into their accounts to buy frame loom, he said adding that they will be provided with 68 inch frame loom.

Kumar said this while addressing a function organised on the occasion of "Rashtriya Hastkargha Diwas (National Handloom Day) here in the state capital.

The funds would also be transferred into the bank accounts of blanket weavers, Kumar said adding that not only this, the government has also decided to pay the weavers's premium contributions under Pradhan Mantri Jiwan Jyoti Bima Yojana.

Kumar said that government would give subsidy on khadi and handloom products made in Bihar.

Stating that people belonging to seven communities that includes - Ansari, Darzi, Tanti, Patwa, etc are engaged in the profession (of weaving), the CM said both Hindus and Muslims engaged in weaving profession will be benefit from the scheme.

"A demand has been made to include all these people - who are engaged in weaving profession - into the category of Scheduled Tribe (ST). I am personally in favour of this idea but the issue does not lie in the hands of the state government," Kumar said



The chief minister also launched the website of Bihar Rajya Hastkargha Bunkar Sahyog Sangh Limited, Patna.

He also laid foundation stones through remote control for construction of "Hastkargha Evam Resham Bhawan" at Bhagalpur at an estimated cost of Rs 13.64 crore, Weaver's Training-cum-Production Centre at Bihar Sharif (Nalanda) and start of renovation work of "Suvidha Kendra" at Singori.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A strong, shallow earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Japan today, officials said. There was no immediate tsunami warning and no reports of injuries or damage.

The US Geological Survey said the quake measured magnitude 5.6 and was 12.1 kilometers deep. It was centered 243 kilometers east of Ofunato city, USGS said.

The city was badly damaged by a magnitude 9.0 quake and tsunami that hit Japan in 2011, killing more than 18,000 people.

Shallow quakes tend to cause more damage.

Japan sits on the Pacific "Ring of Fire" and is prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A nine-year-old male student of a private school in Delhi was allegedly molested by three senior students in their school bus on three different occasions, police said today.

The incidents happened in the last week of July, they said.

Yesterday the student narrated the incidents to his mother, following which a complaint was filed at Vivek Vihar police station. The victim alleged that he was touched inappropriately by three other male students in a school bus, a senior officer said.

A case has been registered against the three students under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Police investigation is underway and legal action will be taken accordingly.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Tech giant Microsoft today said it expects its 'Surface' line of premium computing devices to be among the growth drivers for the company in India.

Microsoft, which unveiled its Surface Book 2 and Surface Laptop in India today priced Rs 86,999 onwards, said it has seen strong growth in sales of Surface devices in the Indian market.

"Surface embodies Microsoft's mission to empower people to do more. Globally and in India, it is encouraging to see the rapidly growing Surface community in, both, consumer and enterprise," Microsoft India President Anant Maheshwari said.

He added that the expanded Surface family provides a strong portfolio of Microsoft devices that will allow users in India to unleash their creativity through Windows 10 features.

Surface revenue increased USD 237 million or 25 per cent globally, driven by strong performance of the latest editions of Surface against a low prior year comparable, as per Microsoft's June 2018 quarter results. The company does not provide country-specific numbers.

Citing IDC data, Microsoft India Country General Manager (Consumer and Device Sales) Priyadarshi Mohapatra said the consumer premium market for PCs grew 60 per cent to 1.08 million units in 2017 from the previous year, reflecting the growing demand in the category.

"The launch of new products is an endorsement of the success we have seen and we believe that Surface will be one of the growth levers for our future growth. It is one of the fastest growing segments," he added.

These devices are targeted at developers, creatives (artists/designers etc) and "premium intenders" (people looking for premium devices), he added.

Mohapatra said smartphones will not cannibalise the PC market but would rather "complement" the segment.

"Smartphones are about content consumption. When it comes to creating content or heavy workloads, people still go back to PCs. So, I think both will co-exist, they will be complementary," he said.

Microsoft had recently unveiled the new Surface Go but the company did not comment on the timeline for launch in the Indian market.

The Surface Book 2, available in 13.5-inch and 15-inch versions, feature the 8th generation Intel processors, and NVIDIA graphics chips and is priced Rs 1,37,999 onwards.

The Surface Laptop feature 7th generation Intel Core processors and offers up to 14.5 hours of battery life. It is priced Rs 86,999 onwards.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Renowned earth scientist Talat Ahmad took over as the vice chancellor of the University of Kashmir today.

He replaced Khurshid Iqbal Andrabi.

Ahmad, who was vice chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia before arriving here, was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour by a contingent of police in the campus.

He completed his MSc in geology from Aligarh Muslim University in 1977 followed by an MPhil in Ore Petrology from JNU in 1980. He then completed his PhD in Igneous Petrology from JNU in 1985.

In 1988-89, Ahmad did a Post Doctoral Fellowship with University of Liecester, while in 1997-98, he did Post Doctoral Fellowship with University of Cambridge. In 1999-2000, he did another Post Doctoral Fellowship with Nagota University (Japan).

He has held several significant assignments including the vice chancellor of University of Kashmir from June 2011 to May 2014 and vice chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi from May 15, 2014 till August 6, 2018.

He has been a recipient of several prestigious awards and citations, including the National Mineral Award, 1994 from the Government of India. He has also been a fellow of the Indian National Science Academy in New Delhi, Indian Academy of Sciences in Bangalore, fellow of the National Academy of Sciences in Allahabad, J C Bose National Fellowship, DST, New Delhi.

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Condolences poured in today after demise of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi from politicians across the spectrum in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, Congress president Ashok Chavan are among the prominent leaders who have expressed grief over the death of the iconic Tamil leader.

Fadnavis said social reforms always remained the agenda of the former Tamil Nadu chief minister.

Karunanidhi breathed his last at a Chennai hospital this evening after prolonged illness.

"Karunanidhi's death is a great loss to the country. He was a popular leader who gave a new direction to Tamil Nadu Social reforms were always his agenda," Fadnavis said.

Noting that Karunanidhi was a good writer and orator, he added that "in national politics, the central government had to always take cognisance of Karunanidhi...he was such a tall leader".

In a condolence message addressed toDMK Working President M K Stalin, the governor said Karunanidhi was one of the most popular and charismatic leaders produced by Tamil Nadu who dominated the political discourse of the nation for many decades.

Rao, who had served as the Governor of Tamil Nadu for more than a year, stated that "Kalaignar" was the visionary leader who was deeply committed to the welfare of the poorest person, farmers and workers.

"As five times Chief Minister, Karunanidhi introduced several innovative schemes for the welfare of the weaker sections of society. Dr. Karunanidhi was also a multi-talented personality, having been a writer, screenplay writer, theatre artist and an art lover. In his demise, the people of Tamil Nadu have lost a Messiah of the Poor.

"I convey my deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu and to the members of the bereaved family on the demise of Dr Karunanidhi," he stated.

NCP chief Sharad Pawar said Karunanidhi will always be remembered as a leader of masses in the Indian political realm.

"Saddened to know about the demise of DMK president and former Tamil Naduchief minister M Karunanidhi. My heartfelt condolences with his family. May his soul rest in peace," he said.

Chavan said an era in Indian ended with the demise of the DMKpresident.

"My heartfelt condolences to the family and followers," he said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Tata Motors is looking to trim the number of component suppliers for its passenger vehicles (PVs) to around 400 as part of its turnaround strategy, according to a senior company official.

The company, which had embarked on turning around its struggling domestic business in June last year, has around 600 parts suppliers for the PV segment.

While announcing its turnaround strategy, the company had identified streamlining supply chain for both passenger and commercial vehicles segments as one of the key components of the plan.

Tata Motors also plans to increase production at its Sanand plant, which rolls out hatchback Tiago and compact sedan Tigor, to around 12,500 units per month from October.

"We've been working on rationalising vendors as part of our turnaround strategy. The process is ongoing at the moment," Tata Motors Vice-President PV operations Rajesh G Khatri said here.

Currently a central team of the company is looking at vendor assessment, he added.

When asked about the total number of vendors and how many would be dropped, Khatri said, "It is difficult to put a number on how many vendors do we have for passenger vehicles, as many are common with commercial vehicles.

"However, a ballpark figure would be around 600 that we had and we are looking to rationalising it to around 400."



"At 400, we would be considered lean," he added.

Khatri said the move to reduce parts suppliers is despite introducing new platforms in the PV segment in order to achieve cost efficiencies.

When asked what criteria is being applied in assessing vendors for continued relationships with the company, he said among the primary parameters is the ability of vendor to adopt Tata Motors' process and meet quality besides their financial viability.

He said many of the vendors which had set up shop at the Sanand plant for supplying parts specifically to Nano have upgraded for providing parts for new models such as the Tiago and Tigor.

"Except for one or two vendors all are now supplying for these new models," he said.

He said the Sanand facility is almost running to its peak capacity of 1.5 lakh units a year.

"With de-bottlenecking we can increase the production. Last year we were 6500 units a month last year but today we are doing 11,000 per month. Our plan is to ramp up to 12,500 a month by October this year.

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A teacher at a residential school for tribal children was today arrested in Yavatmal district of Maharashtra for allegedly sexually harassing three girl students.

The minors had lodged a complaint against Vijay Jadhav (31) on August 4, said senior inspector Anil Patil of Babhulgaon police station.

Studying in classes 8th and 9th at the 'Ashram' (residential) school in Babhulgaon, the girls alleged that Jadhav often touched them inappropriately on the pretext of administering corporal punishment.

The school is run by a private trust and receives government aid.

The girls had first approached the school superintendent who took them to the police station and lodged a case against Jadhav, said Patil.

An FIR under IPC section 354-A (sexual harassment) and under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was registered against the teacher, he added.

A separate case under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act was also filed against Jadhav who was sent to judicial custody today by a local court.

Further probe is on, the police officer said.

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Three persons, including an elderly man, have been arrested for allegedly kidnapping and killing a 29-year-old man, whose body was found on the railway tracks in Kalyan in the district last month, police said today.

According to police, the victim, Surendra Mishra, was in a relationship with a young woman, whose father was against it and plotted his murder.

The accused were identified as the woman's father Rajendra Prasad Tiwari (47) and two others- Bhaskar Naringkar (67), a retired employee of the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport Undertaking (BEST) and Ravi Ashok Choudhary (34), a plumber, police said.

"Mishra, a resident of Kopri and an employee of a private firm, and the woman had been in a relationship for the past seven years. Her parents were against their affair," a senior police official said.

"As the victim planned to marry the woman, her father hatched a conspiracy to kill him," he said.

In a statement given to the police, the woman said that Mishra had gone untraceable on July 14.

"The woman told the police that Mishra had been looking for a house. On July 14, he got a call on his phone while they were travelling in a local train.

"The caller informed him about a room on rent. Thereafter, the woman got down at Mulund railway station, while Mishra disembarked at Thane. After some time, he got another call from the same number and he was asked to come at Teen Haat Naka (in Thane)," the officer said.

According to police, two people met him and asked him to get into a car that took him to Kopri. After that, Mishra went untraceable. The woman said she kept calling Mishra, but as he did not respond, she called his elder brother. They launched a search, but failed to find him.

According to the officer, body of an unidentified man was found on the railway tracks at Kalyan on July 15 morning, which was later identified to be that of Mishra's, the police said.

"Based on the mobile numbers and location, two of the accused were tracked down and caught two days back, while the woman's father was arrested yesterday," the officer said.

A case of kidnapping was initially registered, but IPC sections 302 (murder) and 201 (causing disappearance of evidence of offence, or giving false information to screen offender) were added later, police said.

The police are now on the lookout for other three to four accused involved in the crime.

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Dhofar Generating Company (DGC), in consultation with its founder shareholders Mitsui & Co, Acwa Power along with Omani shareholder Didic, has extended its initial public offering (IPO) by two weeks until August 16, a media report said.



The IPO offer price has been revised to baisas 225 per offer share on the offering of 88,896,000 shares, reported Oman Observer.



DGC is a strategic player in the utilities industry of Oman and shares the vision of the regulator towards continuous growth and prosperity for the Dhofar Governorate, John Clark, chairman of DGC was quoted as saying in the report.



We believe that the revised price of baisas 225 ($0.58) per share, which is even lower than the proportionate cost of acquisition for the founding shareholders originally, will provide a high degree of value for all investors groups in the short and long term, and make the issuance even more attractive.



Naif Al Awaaid, CEO of DGC, said: DGC has been successfully powering the Dhofar Governorate since its inception in 2003 with an even more important role after commissioning of the new 445 MW power plant in January 2018.



The revised IPO price is now even more attractive and supports a unique opportunity for an investment in the regions largest power company, Al Awaaid added.



Investors who have already subscribed to the IPO at the previous price have the flexibility to continue with their subscription without taking any further steps and they would be allotted proportionately more shares at the revised price, the report said.
TMC and Congress MPs from West Bengal today raised the issue of people in the state being duped by misuse of debit cards and urged the Centre to direct banks to ensure safety of depositors' money.

Raising the matter during Zero Hour, Sudip Bandopadhyay (TMC) alleged the role of Romanians and Nigerians in skimming ATM machines and asked where will people keep their savings if the money kept in banks is not safe.

"Government of India should take steps and direct banks to take actions. The money deposited in banks should be kept safe," he said.

Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury (Congress) said lakhs of money is being looted and such incidents are mostly happening at unmanned ATMs.

"Banks take money from customers as service charge. They are responsible for providing security to deposits of public. To safeguard from such skimmers, people in Kolkata are now blocking their ATM cards," Chowdhury said.

Separately, BJP's Sunil Kumar Singh alleged that the ruling party is indulging in violence in the state of West Bengal after panchayat elections.

Singh asked the Centre to intervene and ensure that the violence in the state is stopped.

Speaking during Zero Hour, Veerappa Moily (Cong) demanded that Kannada be included in the list of classical languages of UNESCO.

He said Kannada is an ancient language and was accorded classical language tag by the Government in 2008.

"I would urge the Human Resource Development Ministry to take up with UNESCO inclusion of Kannada in its list of classical languages," Moily said.

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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami today met Union Minister Nitin Gadkari here and discussed various road and port projects concerning the state.

Palaniswami, who holds the Highways and Minor Ports portfolio, also presented a memorandum to Gadkari in this regard, an official release said.

Meanwhile, BJP state unit President Tamilisai Soundarrajan, underlined the party-led Centres' commitment to Tamil Nadu's growth.

Responding to reporters' query about the meeting between Palaniswami and Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport, Highways and Shipping, she said "growth projects" regarding Tamil Nadu were discussed between the two leaders.

"As far as our BJP government is concerned, we want big growth projects to come to Tamil Nadu," she added.

Among the big ticket projects in Tamil Nadu is the Salem-Chennai eight-lane expressway, a Central scheme that has witnessed strict opposition from some quarters, especially farmers, over land acquisition.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Following are the top foreign stories at 2015 hours:



FGN17: PAK-POLLS-IMRAN



Islamabad: Pakistan's election commission today withheld the victory notifications of Imran Khan from two of the five constituencies from where he contested in the July 25 general elections, possibly jeopardising his plans to be sworn-in as the new prime minister.

FGN16: PAK-SC-LD GENERALS



Islamabad: Pakistan's former army chief Gen Raheel Sharif did not obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Cabinet before leaving for Saudi Arabia to head a 41-nation military alliance, the attorney general informed the Supreme Court today. By Sajjad Hussain



FGN14: BANGLA-LD PROTEST



Dhaka: The unprecedented protests by the students in Bangladesh demanding better road safety laws today virtually came to an end, with agitators returning to their classes after a nine-day-long stir that left over 150 people injured in clashed with riots police.

FGN13: PAK-IMRAN-2NDLD GRAFT



Peshawar: Imran Khan, who is set to become Pakistan's new prime minister, was questioned today by the country's anti-graft body and asked to respond to a questionnaire within 15 days in connection with the misuse of helicopters of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government which allegedly caused Rs 2.17 million loss to the exchequer.

FGN11: US-IRAN-SANCTIONS-BOLTON



Washington: The Trump administration's unilateral reimposition of crippling sanctions on Iran was already having a "major effect" with the oil-rich Gulf nation witnessing anti-regime demonstrations and even riots, US National Security adviser John Bolton has claimed.

FGN15: MALAYSIA-NAJIB-LD CORRUPTION



Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia's disgraced ex-leader Najib Razak will face new charges in court tomorrow under anti-money laundering laws in a case linked to a multi-billion-dollar graft scandal, authorities said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A top India operative of Bangladesh-based militant outfit JMB has been arrested near here by the National Investigation Agency in connection with recovery of two bombs in Bodh Gaya in Bihar in January this year, the agency said today.

Mohammed Jahidul Islam alias Kausar of Jamaat-ul-Mujhahiddin Bangladesh (JMB) was picked up from his rented house near Ramanagara area yesterday by an NIA team, the agency said.

Some electronic devices, besides "traces" of explosives, were recovered during a search of the house.

The NIA said in a release that 38-year old Islam was the mastermind in the Bodh Gaya explosives case and on his directions, his close associate Mustafizur Rehman alias Shahin had arranged and assembled the bombs, which were found on January 20 when the Dalai Lama was on a visit to the pilgrimage town. The bombs were later deactivated.

"He is the top leader of JMB (Jamaat-ul-Mujhahiddin Bangladesh) in India and is wanted in Burdwan blast case and in many other cases in Bangladesh also," the release said.

Islam was produced before the Special Court for NIA cases here, which granted five days of transit remand. He would now be produced before the Special NIA Court in Patna, the release said.

Local police said Islam was living with his two wives at Ramanagara.

After the Bodh Gaya incident, he was in hiding somewhere in Jharkhand and later moved to Ramanagara.

"He was staying here as a tenant for the past two months," the police said.

The NIA had registered an FIR in February last under IPC sections, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Explosives Act.

The world-renowned Buddhist pilgrimage town of Bodh Gaya was earlier rocked by a series of blasts on July 7, 2013. Though there were no casualties, several people, including some monks, were injured.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
US President Donald Trump today said that sanctions reimposed on Iran were the "most biting ever" as he warned other countries from doing business with Tehran.

"The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level," he wrote in an early morning tweet.

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less." The sanctions reimposed on Tuesday -- targeting access to US banknotes and key industries such as cars and carpets -- were unlikely to cause immediate economic turmoil.

Iran's markets were actually relatively buoyant, with the rial strengthening by 20 percent since Sunday after the government relaxed foreign exchange rules and allowed unlimited, tax-free gold and currency imports.

But a second tranche coming into effect on November 5 covering Iran's vital oil sector, could be far more damaging -- even if several key customers such as China, India and Turkey have refused to significantly cut their purchases.

Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.

The unilateral withdrawal came despite other parties to the agreement -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the EU -- pleading with Trump not to abandon the pact aimed at blocking Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

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Two Afghan nationals were arrested for allegedly stealing cash worth Rs 2.5 lakh and laptop from a shop in southeast Delhi's Jangpura area, police said today.

The accused, identified as Zamil (48) and Mustafa (35), residing as refugees in Jangpura, are brothers, they said.

On August 1, police were informed about a theft in a shop following which they reached the shop and met complainant Sukhjeet Singh Anand, police said.

During enquiry, the victim alleged that Rs 2.5 lakh and a bag containing his laptop were kept on his shop's counter and was stolen by an unknown person, Chinmoy Biswal, Deputy Commissioner of Police (southeast), said.

While patrolling, the police team reached Bhogal. On seeing them, the accused started running, but the police apprehended them and stolen leather bag containing Rs 2.5 lakh cash and a laptop was recovered from them, he said.

During interrogation, the accused disclosed that they used to steal articles and cash from different parts in Delhi and later used to sell it later, the DCP said.

The accused told police that they used to pretend as if they had recently moved from Afghanistan and are looking for a house in posh colonies, the officer said.

They were staying in India on a United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Card for the last 25 years.

Zameel is a habitual offender with previous involvement in cases of theft. Mustafa used to work as a translator for Afghan nationals who were here on medical visa, he said.

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A special court for POCSO cases here sentenced two persons, Ghewar Singh and Sharavan Singh, to death today holding them guilty of raping and murdering a minor.

In the order, Special Judge Vamita Singh said the action of both the accused was dastardly, against humanity, gruesome and therefore fell under the rarest of rare crime category.

"For this, it is bounden to punish Ghewar Singh and Sharavan Singh only with death sentence for justice to prevail," the order said.

A police team led by the then SP (Barmer) Rahul Barhat had arrested Ghewar Singh and Sharavan Singh along with three others for abducting a minor girl from her house in village Rinva in Barmer's Chohtan on the night of March 29-30, 2013 and raping her.

After raping the girl, the accused killed her to erase the evidence, said prosecution counsel Karnaram Choudhary.

After recovering the body on March 31, police had registered a case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code relating to abduction, gang rape, murder, SC/ST Act and POCSO Act.

Pronouncing judgment, the special court here ordered that both Ghewar Singh and Sharavan Singh to be hanged until death and sentenced the three co-accused Prahlad Singh, Narsing Singh and Shanker Singh to seven years rigorous imprisonment each for hiding the crime.

The defence counsel pleaded lenience considering the accused being fathers of small children and having no criminal antecedents but the court turned down the arguments.

"Where a minor girl was abducted and gang-raped without any provocation and brutally murdered; and the murder was so gruesome that it stirred not only the conscience of the society but judicial conscience also, only death sentence would be justice," the court said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Two persons were arrested today from Gadag in Karnataka for allegedly killing a hotelier in Goa, police said.

The accused are identified as Umesh Rathod and Dayashankar, a police official said.

They have been booked on the charge of murder for allegedly stabbing Vishwajit Singh (41) in the basement of a building in Calangute during the wee hours today, said police inspector Jivba Dalvi.

Police identified the duo on the basis of CCTV footage, he said.

"Since they are the residents of Gadag, we informed the Karnataka Police who arrested them, after tracking their location," Dalvi said.

The motive behind the crime is investigated.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The United Democratic Party (UDP), an ally of the ruling Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government today said it will constitute a committee to propose safeguard mechanisms to deal with the problem of influx and illegal immigration in the state.

The decision in this regard was taken at the central executive committee of the party held here which reviewed among other issues the NRC update in neighbouring Assam, a senior party leader said.

"We have decided to constitute a committee to conduct an in-depth study into the problem of influx and illegal immigration in the state," party general secretary Jemino Mawthoh told mediapersons.

He said the party committee was tasked with coming up with "realistic, practical and comprehensive" mechanism to deal with the issue of influx based on views and opinions the committee get from party workers and stakeholders.

He said the party is also open for an NRC-like exercise in the state and the CEC has also decided to take up the matter with the political partners in the MDA government.

The party leader said the views and proposals will then be submitted to the government of the day.

Mawthoh admitted that there had been a lot of apprehension about the gravity of the situation especially on the possible fallout of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) update in Assam.

Post the NRC update on July 30, the infiltration wing of the state police have strengthened checking of credentials of visitors entering the state.

Superintendent of Police (Infiltration) Debangshu Sangma said the exercise is not new and will continue until further orders.

The North East Students Organisation, an umbrella organisation of students body organisations of various states in the region, has also demanded that NRC should also be conducted by all states to find out the number of non-genuine citizens with 1971 as the cut-off year.

Meghalaya, with a population of about 3 million people, shares a 443-km long international border with Bangladesh on its south and nearly 900-km long interstate border with Assam on its north.

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British Prime Minister Theresa May backed calls today for her former foreign minister Boris Johnson to apologise for disparaging comments he made about Muslim women wearing burqas -- but he branded his critics "ridiculous".

May said his remarks "have clearly caused offence" and agreed with the chairman of her Conservative party, Brandon Lewis, who had asked Johnson to apologise.

"I do think that we all have to be very careful about the language and terms we use. And some of the terms Boris used describing people's appearance obviously have offended," the prime minister said.

"What's important is do we believe people should have the right to practise their religion and, in the case of women and the burqa and niqab, to choose how they dress."



In a column in Monday's Daily Telegraph newspaper, Johnson said women wearing the full face veil looked like "bank robbers" or "letter-boxes", prompting accusations of Islamophobia.

But the former top diplomat, who has a reputation for causing controversy and quit May's cabinet last month in protest at her Brexit plan, refused to back down.

"It is ridiculous that these views are being attacked - we must not fall into the trap of shutting down the debate on difficult issues," a source close to Johnson told reporters.

"We have to call it out. If we fail to speak up for liberal values then we are simply yielding ground to reactionaries and extremists." - 'Dog-whistle tactics' -



In his article, Johnson said he opposed a ban on face-covering veils, but added that it was "absolutely ridiculous that people should choose to go around looking like letter-boxes".

His remarks drew condemnation from former colleagues. Junior foreign minister Alistair Burt told the BBC: "I would never have made such a comment, I think there is a degree of offence in that, absolutely right."



Conservative peer Sayeeda Warsi, a former party chairwoman, accused Johnson of adopting the "dog-whistle" tactics of right-wing firebrand Steve Bannon, US President Donald Trump's former top aide. Johnson has been in direct communication with Bannon in recent months, according to media reports.

Warsi said Johnson was hoping to attract support from right-wing Conservatives for an eventual leadership bid, and called for an independent inquiry into Islamophobia in the party.

"It is crass and it must stop, and it must be condemned by the leadership right from the prime minister down." But Johnson received support from some quarters, with Conservative MP Nadine Dorries saying he "did not go far enough".

"Any clothing a woman is forced to wear which hides both her beauty and her bruises should be banned and have no place in our liberal, progressive country," she said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Emirates Islamic, one of the leading Islamic financial institutions in the UAE, is offering customers a welcome bonus of 2020 Skywards Miles on opening a Super Savings Account.



Emirates Islamics Super Savings Account is an innovative savings account, where in addition to earning a profit on their savings, customers also have the opportunity to earn up to 60,000 bonus Skywards Miles annually based on their average account balance.



Customers transferring a minimum monthly salary of Dh5,000 ($1,360) or maintaining a minimum monthly average balance of Dh5,000 within the first two months of opening a Super Savings Account will be eligible for the 2020 Skywards Miles welcome bonus.



Wasim Saifi, deputy CEO - Consumer Banking and Wealth Management at Emirates Islamic, said: Emirates Islamics Super Savings Account offers a unique proposition to our customers, combining the benefits of a savings account with rewards reflective of their lifestyle. As they improve their financial wellbeing by saving more, customers can earn more Skywards Miles, helping them save on their future travel expenses. Moreover, as the exclusive Islamic banking partner of Expo 2020 Dubai, we are pleased to offer our customers 2020 bonus Skywards Miles when they open the Super Savings Account.  TradeArabia News Service
Uttar Pradesh Health Minister Sidharth Nath Singh underwent angioplasty at a civil hospital tonight after complaining of chest pain.

Singh (54) was rushed to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital here where the doctors performed angioplasty and three stents were inserted, an official release said.

He was later shifted to ICCU, it said, adding his condition was stated to be normal.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
With opposition parties raising serious concern over the alleged sexual exploitation of girls at a children's shelter home in Uttar Pradesh, Home Minister Rajnath Singh today termed the incident shameful and declared that no culprit would escape action.

Singh also told the Lok Sabha that two senior officials of the state government were probing the matter.

Opposition members, including those from the SP and the RJD, raised the issue and referred to a similar incident at Muzaffarpur in Bihar.

"No culprit will escape action", Singh said, adding that the state government has taken quick action in the case. He described such incidents as unfortunate, sad and shameful.

On the action taken, he said the district administrative officer has been suspended and the manager of the shelter home as well as her husband have been arrested.

Additional Chief Secretary and a Director General level officer are probing the case, Singh said.

The Home Minister also said that he would ask the ministries concerned to send out advisories to states to ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future.

Soon after the Home Minister's response, members of the SP, RJD, Congress and TMC staged a walk out from the House.

Amid the protests and heated exchanges between the Treasury and the Opposition benches, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said everyone is concerned about these incidents which are not good. She urged everyone not to play politics with it.

She suggested that all members should also keep a tab in their constituencies so that such incidents do not happen.

Twenty-four girls were rescued from a shelter home in Deoria in Uttar Pradesh after allegation of sexual exploitation of the inmates came to light a few days ago. As many as 18 inmates are reportedly missing.

Raising serious concerns about the case, SP member Dharmendra Yadav said strict action should be taken against the culprits. Atrocities have been committed against the girls, Yadav said, adding that he does not want to play politics on the issue.

RJD member Jai Prakash Narayan Yadav also raised the issue.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge asked the Speaker to set up a House Committee to probe the incidents which have happened in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Noting that it is a "serious issue", he also said the committee should visit all states and try to find out why such things are happening.

BJP member from Uttar Pradesh Kalraj Mishra said the licence of the children's shelter home was cancelled a year ago and then the matter went to court. The process of shifting the girls and the boys had started, he added.

Holding placards, TDP members also walked into the Well seeking to raise issues related to Andhra Pradesh.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
United States of America Ambassador to India Kenneth I Juster met Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra here, today, and discussed Indo-US relations, with special focus on war against terrorism.

"Ambassador of United States of America to India Kenneth I Juster, accompanied by political officer Alexi Lefevre and senior political specialist Sukesh, called upon Governor N N Vohra at the Raj Bhavan here," an official spokesman said.

The discussion revolved around further strengthening of India-USA ties on several fronts, particularly terrorism, the spokesman said. Collaborative ventures were also discussed during the meet.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A US Navy veteran was on Tuesday sentenced to three consecutive life sentences on federal hate crime charges for killing Indian engineer and wounding two others at a suburban Kansas City bar last year.

Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed Kuchibhotla, and wounded two others Indian Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

Earlier this year, he pleaded guilty in federal court to hate crime and firearm offenses arising out of the shooting.

At his federal guilty-plea hearing, Purinton admitted in open court that he targeted and shot Kuchibhotla and Madasani because of their race, colour, and origin, and that he shot Grillot during an attempt to flee the scene of the crime.

Purinton had also pleaded guilty in state court to charges of murder and attempted murder, and has been sentenced to a term of life imprisonment in state prison.

The sentences handed down in federal court today will run consecutively to another life sentence 53-year-old Purinton previously received for first-degree murder in Johnson County District Court.

"The crimes at issue in this case are detestable," Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement.

"The defendant acted with clear premeditation in murdering one man, and attempting to murder a second man, simply because of their race, religion, and origin. As a result, a promising young life has been tragically cut short, and other lives have been filled with suffering."



Sessions said that while the "irreparable harm" that Purinton has done cannot be undone, "some measure of justice for the victims' families has been achieved."



In a statement, Kuchibhotla's widow said that her husband was always "respectful to others" and would have helped Purinton understand that not every brown skinned person is evil but is contributing to America's growth.

"My husband was more than what you chose to address him as. Always kind, caring, and respectful to others. Srinu and I came to the US of America full of dreams and aspirations...Now, my American Dream - and that of Srinu's - is broken," Sunayana Dumala said in the statement read out in court today as Purinton was sentenced, calling her husband by his informal name.

"...(U)se the time that is being given to you to educate yourself and inform others who are still out in the open and stop them from killing innocent people as you did - choosing violence over kindness," she added.

US Attorney Stephen McAllister for the District of Kansas said a person should be able to live without fear of becoming a victim of hate crimes irrespective of "who you are, what you believe, or how you worship."



The killing of Kuchibhotla had shaken the Indian community and led to heightened fear and anxiety among the South Asian population in general and the Indian community in particular, about their safety. Concerns grew in the community about misplaced perceptions among individuals over immigration status and ethnicity of Indians and South Asians in America.

According to evidence presented in court, a few weeks before the shooting, Purinton was sitting by himself in the bar area at Austins Bar & Grill when, coincidentally, Kuchibhotla and Madasani happened to be having a drink on the patio. Noticing the two men, Purinton commented to a regular sitting at the bar, "Did you see the terrorists on the patio?"



On February 22, 2017, Purinton drove to Austins Bar & Grill and sat by himself at a table on the enclosed front patio. Sitting at the table to his left were Ian Grillot and several other patrons as well as Kuchibhotla and Madasani. He approached Kuchibhotla and Madasani, and demanded to know where they were from and how they entered the country.

Purinton poked Kuchibhotla in the chest, called him a "terrorist" and an epithet disparaging persons of Middle Eastern descent, and shouted, "Get out of my country!"



Grillot and another patron interceded, told Purinton that he needed to leave, and escorted him out of the bar.

Purinton drove home and retrieved a semi-automatic pistol and to disguise his identity, changed into a different shirt and grabbed a blue-and-white scarf. Later, he returned to the bar.

He walked over to the enclosed front patio, opened the door, aimed his semi-automatic pistol at Kuchibhotla and Madasani, and fired eight roundsat least four of which struck Kuchibhotla, who died from his injuries, and one of which struck Madasani, who was injured, but survived. Hours after the shooting, Purinton stated over the phone to a friend, and later in person to a bartender, that he had just killed some Iranians.

Purinton admitted that he shot Kuchibhotla and Madasani, attempting to kill both men, because of their race, colour, religion, and national origin. After shooting Kuchibhotla and Madasani, Purinton ran out, and Grillot chased after him. As Grillot caught up to him, Purinton turned around and shot Grillot, who was also injured but survived.
The Delhi High Court today termed as "exorbitant" the rates prescribed by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) for use of land dedicated for making Ravana effigies by artisans.

A bench of Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar said it was "inhuman" to charge artisans exorbitant rates for temporary use of land and directed that the amounts should be "notional".

The court also said that since the artisans require the land for just two months every year, "We see no reason why a temporary site cannot be provided."



The observation by the bench came after the SDMC said it did not have any land as the land owning agency was the Delhi Development Authority (DDA).

Not swayed by the corporation's argument, the court said the SDMC as well as the other two municipal corporations must have land they lease out for weddings and other occasions and directed all three to hold a meeting to identify a site for making the effigies.

The bench directed the corporations to inform it on August 14 about the temporary site identified by them for the work.

The court had last week asked the SDMC and Delhi government to re-look the usage charges for the sites.

The direction was issued after the artisans had told the court that at the present rate of Rs five per square feet, they would end up paying between Rs 22,000 to Rs 30,000 each month which they could not afford it.

They sought the usage charges to be reduced to Re 1 per square feet which was affordable.

The court was hearing a PIL initiated on its own after it came across a report saying that several Ravana effigies, built by artisans who came here from Rajasthan for Dussehra, were destroyed or confiscated by the South Delhi Municipal Corporation for allegedly encroaching on public land.

Last September, it had asked the Delhi government and the corporation to formulate a policy for allocating land to the artisans to do their work.

Thereafter, a draft policy was framed by the Delhi government after holding meetings with the corporations and other civic bodies.

The policy laid down the modalities for utilising land identified for use by the artisans.

Under the policy, there is a registration fee of Rs 500 per applicant and usage charges of Rs 5 per square feet per month.

It stated that the artisans had to register with the corporations two months before the start of the work and once a site was allotted it would be for only two months.

After expiry of period of allotment the artisans has to vacate the site. If the number of applicants exceeded the land available, then registrations would be granted on first-come-first-serve basis, the document said and added that the artisans had to ensure there was no pollution of any kind at the site allotted to them.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
NCP's Vandana Chavan is likely to be the Opposition candidate in the election for the post of Deputy Chairperson of Rajya Sabha but a final decision would be made after another round of meeting of the parties this evening.

After a second round of meeting today, the Opposition concluded that Chavan would be able to get the support of all opposition parties and even a few of NDA allies.

"Though we would again meet but it's almost finalised that Chavan of NCP would be the Opposition candidate," a senior opposition party leader said.

Most opposition parties raised no objection on Chavan's name during the meeting but they have left room for any possible last-minute change.

Chavan, whose name was proposed by Bahujan Samaj Party leader Satish Chandra Mishra and seconded by TMC leader Derek O'Brien, received every opposition party's support, including the Congress.

Congress, the largest opposition party with 50 seats in the upper house, feels its candidate may face strong resistance from some parties such as the TDP, which has decided to side with the Opposition camp on this matter.

Congress has said they are not putting up any candidate for this election and have expressed support for a consensus candidate from within the opposition camp.

According to senior opposition leaders, they felt during the meeting that an NCP candidate from Maharashtra will be able to get the support of Shiv Sena, an NDA ally.

Opposition parties are also in touch with BJD, which has not opened its cards yet.

But it appears that the ruling party in Odisha is in no mood to be seen siding with any camp. "Because of assembly elections in Odisha next year, BJD may abstain or be absent during voting," the senior opposition leader said.

The Opposition camp believes the NCP would try to convince another NDA ally - the Shiromani Akali Dal - to vote for Chavan.

"SAD is not very pleased with NDA. They have good relations with NCP. If they vote for Chavan, it will certainly not be very easy for NDA," the leader said.

At present, both the camps are trying hard to get the numbers required to get their candidates elected to the post.

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Anil Agarwal-led Ltd is likely to bag as many as 40 oil and gas exploration blocks in India's maiden open acreage auction, official sources said on Tuesday.

An Empowered Committee of Secretaries (ECS) has cleared award of blocks offered in OALP-1, bidding for which closed on May 2, they said.

The recommendations of the panel will now go to ministers of finance and petroleum for approval, they said.

The Union Cabinet had in April delegated its power to ministers of finance and petroleum to award oil and gas blocks to their winners in the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) auction.

At the close of the bidding on May 2, Vedanta's oil and gas arm, Cairn India had bid for all the 55 blocks on offer while state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) had bid for 37 blocks either on its own or in consortium with other state-owned firms. State-owned Oil India Ltd (OIL) bid for 22 blocks in a similar fashion.

Sources said while is likely to walk away with 40 blocks, may get two or a maximum of three areas. Hindustan Oil Exploration Co (HOEC) is likely to get one while OIL may get around half a dozen blocks.

They said the award of the blocks is awaiting the finance minister's nod.

Piyush Goyal is officiating as the finance minister as Arun Jaitley recuperates from a renal transplant. It is being speculated that Jaitley may be back in office as early as next week and may clear the OALP-1 bids.

When the bids closed on May 2, was the sole bidder for two blocks and had either or OIL as a direct competitor in the remaining.



ALSO READ: Vedanta postpones quarterly results to next Monday as it prepares to delist

Except for the two blocks that received three bids each, all the other 53 had just two bidders.

Neither local giants Reliance Industries nor any foreign company participated in the auction, a first since India began offering oil and gas area for exploration and production through bids in 1999.

India had in July last year allowed to carve out blocks of their choice with a view to bringing about 2.8 million sq km of unexplored area in the country under exploration.

Under this policy, are allowed to put in an expression of interest (EoI) for prospecting of oil and gas in an area that is presently not under any production or exploration license.

The EoIs can be put in any time of the year but they are accumulated twice annually.

As many as 55 blocks were sought for prospecting of oil and gas by prospective bidders, mostly by state-owned explorers, and OIL, and private sector Vedanta by the end of the first EoI cycle on November 15, 2017, they said.

The blocks or areas that receive EoIs at the end of a cycle are put up for auction with the originator or the firm that originally selected the area getting a 5-mark advantage.

The 55 blocks have a total area of 59,282 sq km. This compares to about 1,02,000 sq km being under exploration currently, they said.



Blocks would be awarded to the company which offers highest share of oil and gas to the government as well as commits to do maximum exploration work by way of shooting 2D and 3D seismic survey and drilling exploration wells.

Increased exploration would lead to more oil and gas production, helping the world's third largest oil importer to cut import dependence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set a target of cutting oil import bill by 10 per cent to 67 per cent by 2022 and to half by 2030.

Import dependence has increased since 2015 when Modi had set the target. India currently imports 81 per cent of its oil needs.

The new policy replaced the old system of government carving out areas and bidding them out. It guarantees marketing and pricing freedom and moves away from production sharing model of previous rounds to a revenue-sharing model where offering the maximum share of oil and gas to the government are awarded the block.



The government till now has been selecting and demarcating areas it feels can be offered for bidding in an exploration licensing round.

So far 256 blocks had been offered for exploration and production since 2000. The last bid round happened in 2010. Of these, 254 blocks were awarded. But as many as 156 have already been relinquished due to poor prospectivity.
Normal life was affected today as buses, taxi and auto-rickshaws remained off roads in support of a nationwide strike called by the transport unions, a police officer said.

The protesters demanded the withdrawal of the proposed Motor Vehicle Amendment Bill, which was passed by the Lok Sabha recently and is waiting for the Rajya Sabha's nod.

All Odisha Transport Workers' Federation (AOTWF) along with other trade unions, including the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) and All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), observed a 12-hour strike today to protest against the provisions of Amendment Bill, the officer said.

"Though commercial vehicles remained off the roads, school buses, ambulances and milk vans were exempted from the purview of the strike. Even then, some school buses refused to ply on roads, fearing backlash by the agitators," he added.

The Bill will hamper the interests of vehicle owners, drivers and insurance companies, a member of AOTWF claimed.

"We demand withdrawal of the decision to make amendments to Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The Bill is anti-people as it proposes the use of spare parts manufactured by branded companies. If passed by the Parliament, it would badly affect the small-scale enterprises in automobile manufacturing sector," he added.

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Venezuelan authorities vowed today to "root out" plots against President Nicolas Maduro after what they said was a weekend drone "assassination" bid backed by Colombia.

An accusation by Maduro that his Colombian counterpart Juan Manuel Santos was behind the incident has worsened already fraught ties between Caracas and Bogota.

Santos, who hands over power to elected successor Ivan Duque tomorrow, has categorically rejected the accusation. His government has labelled it "absurd." A live broadcast of the incident on Venezuelan state television showed Maduro interrupted in mid-speech by an explosion and looking up in confusion.

Dozens of soldiers on parade are then seen breaking ranks and running away in panic.

Maduro and his government said the president had been targeted by two flying drones carrying explosives. But details of the incident remain unclear, with conflicting information coming from various sources.

The Maduro administration blamed the alleged attack on Colombia, working with the "ultra far-right" Venezuelan opposition, and financed by unnamed figures in the US state of Florida.

No evidence was given to support the allegations. Thousands of exiled Venezuelans live in Colombia and in Florida.

Maduro's critics said they feared the Venezuelan government would now step up repression of the opposition and dissidents.

Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek William Saab told a conference on Monday that several suspects were in custody and authorities would track down all those who conspire against public peace."



He called the drone attack, in which seven soldiers were said to be wounded, "an attempted massacre." "Let this act serve to root out once and for all any sort of violent attempt to threaten the peace," Saab said.

The attorney general added that two of the suspects were "caught in the act" guiding one of the drones from a car close to the parade.

He did not identify any of the suspects but said that "initial international connections have been established." Interior Minister Nicolas Reverol said on Sunday that six suspects had been arrested.

He said two drones had been used, each carrying a kilogram of C4 explosive.

One went out of control and flew into a building, while the other was jammed and exploded before reaching the president's podium, Reverol said.

Maduro's supporters marched through Caracas today.

The 55-year-old Socialist leader was expected to address them in what would be his first public appearance since Saturday's incident.

No drones could be seen in the broadcast of the event, which was cut moments after the soldiers were seen scattering away from where Maduro was standing flanked by military chiefs and his wife.

Some accounts on the ground said a fire at a nearby building was caused by the accidental explosion of a gas cylinder.

An unauthenticated statement from a rebel group calling itself the "National Movement of Soldiers in T-Shirts" claimed responsibility in a statement passed to an opposition journalist based in the US.

Maduro and his allies, however, insist it was a drone assassination bid. Bolivia, Cuba, Iran, Russia and Syria condemned the incident.

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Venus Williams advanced to the second round of the Rogers Cup after a 7-5, 6-1 victory over Caroline Dolehide on Monday.

The 14th-ranked Williams made quick work of her 19-year-old fellow American in the second set after coming from behind to win a back-and-forth first set.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion will now face either Sorana Cristea or Monica Niculescu in the second round.

It looked like an upset was in the cards in the early going. The 124th-ranked Dolehide, who was making her Rogers Cup debut, jumped to a 3-1 lead in the first set after breaking Williams' serve. One of just two teenagers in the main draw, Dolehide used her heavy service game and aggressive play to challenge Williams on every point.

She finished the match with three aces. Williams had none.

But the 38-year-old veteran broke Dolehide back to take a 4-3 lead, and she did it again in the deciding game of the first set.

Dolehide, one of 12 qualifiers in the main draw, just couldn't maintain the same pace in the second set, as Williams only lost 11 points on her way to victory.

Dolehide earned spot in the main draw of the U.S. Open on Monday when Mirjana Lucic-Baroni of Croatia withdrew due to an injured right shoulder.

Earlier Monday, Eugenie Bouchard and partner Sloane Stephens upset the fifth-seeded duo of Gabriela Dabrowski and Yifan Xu 6-4, 4-6, 1-0 (6) in first-round doubles action.

In singles play, 29-year-old Julia Goerges of Germany avoided an early loss with a 3-6, 7-6 (3), 6-4 win over Timea Babos of Hungary in a match that lasted nearly 2 1/2 hours. Goerges had 17 aces and five double faults to Babos' eight and one, respectively.

Goerges will next face qualifier Lucie Safarova of the Czech Republic in the second round.

In other singles matches, Anett Kontaveit of Estonia defeated Ekaterina Makarova of Russia 4-6, 6-3, 6-1 and Anastasija Sevastova of Latvia cruised past Aleksandra Krunic of Serbia 6-1, 6-0.

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Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is inviting the FinTech and RegTech companies the Mena region to comment on a joint consultation proposing the role and details of a Global Financial Innovation Network (GFIN).



Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) is inviting the FinTech and RegTech companies the Mena region to comment on a joint consultation proposing the role and details of a Global Financial Innovation Network (GFIN) initiated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).



The GFIN is a newly-formed association comprising 11 financial regulators, including ADGM. This paper follows a proposition document published by the UK FCA in February 2018 on the concept of a global sandbox and provides an update on the next steps of the project.



The GFIN initiative will create a network of FinTech-focused regulators, and for those that offer RegLab-like regulatory sandboxes, cross-border trials for those FinTechs seeking to run tests in multiple jurisdictions simultaneously. GFIN will also become a key forum for financial regulators to collaborate on RegTech solutions and develop innovation-related policies.



As a centre of innovation and financial services, ADGM is an active advocate of financial technology and developments locally and internationally. ADGM has formed vital international bridges with multiple financial regulators, governments and the private sector to promote and enable the development and adoption of FinTech across the various economies.



As a member of the GFIN, ADGM looks forward to further cooperate with its regulator counterparts at scale and bring greater value to the FinTech industry in Abu Dhabi and globally.

Richard Teng, chief executive officer of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of ADGM, said: We are pleased to be part of this important collaboration to bolster the FinTech sector and create more opportunities for growth and innovation in financial services.



Our experience in launching the FinTech regulatory regime and sandbox in the MENA has given us valuable traction and insights to the needs of the innovators and financial institutions. As the FinTech Hub in this region, ADGM understands its responsibility in maintaining a conducive environment that allows a sustainable flow of fresh and innovative solutions to address the needs of consumers and our stakeholders locally and abroad.



We look forward to further our partnerships with fellow regulators such as the UK FCA and the private sector to offer a greater platform for financial innovators to scale across various markets, and for all of us to maintain a practical, open and inclusive global FinTech community, he added.



The consultation period of the GFIN proposal will close on October 14.  TradeArabia News Service
Leader of Opposition Vijender Gupta was marshalled out of the Delhi Assembly today amid ruckus following his demand for an apology by Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot over an alleged scam in procurement of 1,000 buses.

Two other BJP MLAs - Om Prakash Sharma and Jagdish Pradhan - walked out of the House to register their protest on the second day of the Monsoon Session.

Gupta, an MLA from Rohini constituency, alleged the transport commissioner was targeted when she protested procurement of buses against laid down rules.

As the opposition leader was adamant to his demand, AAP legislators countered him, raising slogans against him.

The House proceeding resumed after Speaker Ram Niwas Goel directed him to be marshalled out.

Yesterday, he was marshalled out for "disrupting" the House proceedings over his demand for an National Register of Citizens (NRC) for Delhi.

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A clash had broken out between the protesting students and a group of people that demanded "resumption of classes" at Manipur University in Imphal West district, where prohibitory order under Section 144 CrPC had been in force since July 25, a senior official said.

Police had to fire tear gas shells and mock bombs to disperse the mob, he said.

"A group of people, with no possible affiliation, entered into a heated altercation with the students, who were holding silent protests at the institute yesterday under the aegis of Manipur University Students Union (MUSU). The altercation soon led to a clash, prompting police to take action," the official said.

Academic activities at the central university have been under suspension for over two months as teachers, students and staff members there have been demanding the removal of Vice Chancellor AP Pandey over allegations of administrative negligence and financial irregularities.

The district administration, last week, issued a separate order preventing demonstrations in and around the university.

Despite the prohibitory orders, the agitators, after the altercation, tried to take out a rally from the main gate of the institute yesterday, the officer said.

"The police officers had to fire tear gas shells and mock bombs to disperse the local people as well as the students, who turned violent after they were stopped from taking out the rally," he added.

A MUSU functionary said four students have sustained injuries in the clash, a claim refuted by the police officers.

He also said that similar rallies were taken out yesterday at Senapati, Kangpok and Churachandpur districts by the students' bodies.

"In Senapati district, which has a predominant Naga population, at least 2000 protesters participated in a rally yesterday. At Churachandpur and Kangpok districts, too, the students took to the streets, seeking redressal of their grievances," the MUSU member added.

L Debananda, a spokesperson of Manipur University Teachers Association (MUTA), said the situation at the university changed for worse after the police last week dismantled a makeshift camp of the agitating bodies at the entrance gate of the university.

Additionally, the detention of a MUSU functionary over charges that he defaced the images of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and tore posters of his flagship programmes also infuriated the students, he claimed.

Deputy Chief Minister Y Joykumar had on Sunday appealed to the protesting students and teachers to cooperate with the HRD Ministry and the state government in restoring normalcy at the university.

He also urged the agitators to keep faith in the administration, which has the "best interests of the students" in mind.

Pandey was sent on a month's leave on August 2 on the advice of Union HRD Ministry. He was replaced by professor W Vishwanath Singh.

An inquiry committee, constituted by the ministry last month, is currently looking into the allegations of negligence and irregularities.

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The BJP-led Maharashtra government today announced various measures for the OBCs who are apparently nervous over the likely inclusion of the Marathas in the OBC category for reservation in jobs.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced that Rs 500 crore will be given to the OBC Corporation in the next two budgets to provide employment opportunities to youths from the OBC community.

He made the announcement at the third national convention of the Rashtriya OBC Mahasangh held in Mumbai.

He said the government has sent a recommendation to the Central government for honouring Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and his wife Savitribai Phule---the social reformers of the 19th Century--with Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian award.

The announcement came against the backdrop of reports that the Other Backward Classes are against the attempts to include the Marathas in the OBC category for quota benefits.

"An amount of Rs 500 crore will be given to the OBC Corporation in the next two budgets to provide employment opportunities and assist our youths from the community," Fadnavis said.

He also said the government would construct hostels for OBC students in 19 districts, and funds will be made available.

"In no way, the seats meant for the OBCs would be given to any other individual (from non-OBC category). The seats meant for the OBCs will go to OBCs only. We are committed to provide employment to OBCs as per the quota given in the reservation," said Fadnavis.

He said the state government has set up a separate Ministry for OBCs.

"I am also happy that after 70 years of struggle, our Parliament yesterday passed a bill to provide Constitutional status to the National Backward Classes Commission," Fadnavis said.

The OBCs had reportedly demanded that their quota be raised from the current 19 per cent considering that they make up 52 per cent of the state's population.

Fadnavis also announced that his government would assess the extent of representation given to the OBCs in jobs till date and take steps to address the backlog, if any, in a time-bound manner.

In Maharashtra, the OBCs enjoy 17 per cent quota at present.

Fadnavis suggested that there was no exact information available regarding the actual representation of the OBCs in jobs till now, and said the state government would come out with relevant details.

"If the representation is below the percentage of quota alloted, then the backlog would be cleared in a time-bound manner," the chief minister said.

The politically-influential Maratha community, constituting around 30 per cent of Maharashtra's population, has been agitating to press their demand for reservation in jobs and education under the OBC category.

At present, the quota for various castes and communities in Maharashtra is capped at 52 per cent, with Scheduled Castes (13%), Scheduled Tribes (7%), OBCs (19%); Nomadic, Denotified Tribes and Special Backward Category together at 13%.

The OBCs had reportedly sought a comprehensive socio-economic and caste census in Maharashtra to determine the population of each community.

Speaking on the occasion, Maharashtra Congress president Ashok Chavan appealed to Fadnavis to take yearly follow-up on implementation of the announcements made by him.

"I would also request the organisers of the (OBC) convention to review whether the announcements made from this platform are implemented or not...the government should accept the demands made by the communities and not ignore them," Chavan demanded.

The former chief minister said various governments in the past had announced awarding reservations in the past (to different communities), but wondered about actual implementation of the promises.

Chavan said many people have been expressing concerns that the current situation may lead to a conflict among various communities, and pitched for communal harmony.

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Officials of West Bengal and Jharkhand will meet tomorrow in a bid to end the impasse over the painting of a part of the Massanjore Dam in the shades of white and blue.

The two states have been at loggerheads since Friday when West Bengal's TMC government painted the walls of the dam situated in Dumka district in Jharkhand where the BJP was in power.

In retaliation, the Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), BJP's youth wing protest, erased "Bengal" and painted "Jharkhand" on a dam gate. They also covered the Biswa Bangla logo with a Jharkhand one, media reports said.

West Bengal Irrigation minister Soumen Mahapatra told PTI in Kolkata today that a meeting was likely to take place tomorrow.

A senior official of the irrigation department and district magistrates of Birbhum and Dumka would sit for a meeting to find out a solution to the issue, Mahapatra said.

"At the moment there is no problem here. There will be a meeting tomorrow regarding the issue and hopefully it will be resolved," Mahapatra added.

The minster had earlier asserted that the dam was maintained by his government, and "nobody had any right" to stop its workers from the carrying out the work.

Refusing to back down, BJP Dumka MLA and Jharkhand minister Louis Marandi had on Sunday threatened to "gouge out eyes" of those who dared to look at the barrage.

The work was completed in 1955. There was an agreement between West Bengal and (undivided) Bihar governments. My claim is that the agreement has lapsed 10 years ago, Marandi told PTI in Dumka.

The Massanjore dam was constructed in Jharkhand displacing people of 144 villages, who haven't been rehabilitated till date. On the other hand, West Bengal is getting the benefits of water and electricity, she added.

She further asked the West Bengal government to make the agreement on the dam, signed between the governments of West Bengal and undivided Bihar, public.

However, Mahapatra questioned the need for it.

"I do not see any need to make it public. Why should we make it public. If you are really keen you can come out with the one you are currently having," he said adding that the agreement was reopened twice back in 1955 and 1978.

The West Bengal minister also said that because the agreement is a tripartite one among the Centre, West Bengal government and the then Bihar government any altercation would need an approval of the Central government.

He also emphasised that the West Bengal government was the one which is responsible for the maintenance of the dam as well as paying salary to the workers.

A Birbhum district report said that officials, led by ADM (development) Ranjan Kumar Jha, went to Dumka yesterday to meet the deputy commissioner there but could not meet him, Birbhum District Magistrate Moumita Godara said.

Officials at the DC's office there said he was busy at Sharavani Mela at Basukinath temple and so the team returned, sources at the Birbhum district administration said, adding the meeting is likely to take place tomorrow.

The Massanjore dam also called Canada Dam, across the Mayurakshi river, was commissioned in 1955. The reservoir has an area of 67.4 square kilometres (16,650 acres) when full and has a storage capacity of 620,000,000 cubic metres (500,000 acreft).

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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and top actor Rajinikanth today paid their last respects to DMK President M Karunanidhi who died today.

Banerjee, who arrived here tonight from Kolkata, drove straight to the Gopalapuram residence of the DMK patriarch from the airport.

"Today India lost one of its greatest sons. And Tamil Nadu lost its father figure. Farewell @Kalaignar89.My deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu, @arivalayam, @mkstalin, @kanimozhiDMK and family.India mourns your loss," Banerjee had earlier said in a tweet.

Party supporters thronged the residence to have a last glimpse of their favourite leader as the DMK patriarch's body, draped in a party flag, was brought from the Kauvery hospital where he was admitted on July 28 following a dip in blood pressure.

Tamil Nadu Congress Committee President Su Thirunavukkarasar, Tamilaga Vaazhvurimai Katchi president, S Velmurugan, CPI state secretary Mutharasan, VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan also paid homage to the departed leader.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Congress president Rahul Gandhi today accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of remaining silent on incidents of alleged rape, including in shelter homes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, and asserted that what is happening against women during his tenure, had not happened in the previous 3,000 years in India.

Gandhi also said that his aim was to have 50 per cent women in the Congress while asserting that the BJP cannot put forward such a vision as its "parent organisation", the RSS, was a "male chauvinist organisation".

Taking a swipe at the government's campaign of "beti bachao, beti padhao", he said that it was actually for "saving the daughters from BJP MLAs", an apparent reference to some BJP leaders accused in rape cases.

He alleged that Modi had remained silent over the atrocities against women in the backdrop of rapes of girls in shelter homes in Muzaffarpur in Bihar and in Uttar Pradesh.

"The prime minister speaks on everything -- bullet train, aeroplanes, toilets, but not women. Whenever there are atrocities on women, he does not speak up," Gandhi said.

"(He) had talked about changing India, had talked about 70 years...what they have done against women in the last four years, had not happened in the previous 3,000 years in this country, leave alone 70 years," Gandhi said.

The Congress leader, while addressing a "Mahila Adhikaar Sammelan" at Talkatora Stadium here, promised to extend his party's full support to the passage of the women reservation bill and said if the Modi government does not bring it, the Congress will do so soon after coming to power.

He also talked of empowering women within the Congress and bringing them forward in the organisation, for them to lead a state or the country one day.

He promised to include more women in central units of the AICC, saying "the country needs them".

"In UP women are raped, the prime minister does not say a word on it. In Jharkhand and in various states women are raped, in Bihar small girls are raped, but our prime minister cannot speak a word on it," he said.

In a reference to the Unnao rape case, Gandhi said that in UP "their MLA is accused of rape", but the prime minister does not say a word.

Women across the country go out scared, he claimed.

The Congress chief also said that whenever the prime minister goes abroad, he embraces leaders, but has no answer to the question -- why women are not safe in India.

He promised to bring women to the forefront of the party in framing policy, manifesto and strengthening the organisation. He said his job as the Congress president is to ensure women have equal space in the organisation.

"We are going to create space for you in the Congress party. We need to create special space for women in our party. We need to create a space at every level.

"The RSS and the BJP will never be able to show the country a similar vision. Their parent organisation, the RSS, in its history has never allowed a woman into its organisation," Gandhi said.

"There are other organisations in the BJP that have females in it, but the RSS is a completely male chauvinist organisation that does not believe in giving space to women," Gandhi alleged, adding that they simply "can't do what we can do".

The day one woman enters the RSS, it will not remain the RSS, Gandhi said.

The ideology of the BJP and the RSS is that India will be run by men, women cannot run this country, he said.

"Women's place is at the back and men's place is in front. This is the biggest difference between us and them," the Congress leader said.

Launching a fierce attack on the prime minister, Gandhi said various institutions were under attack from the BJP and the RSS, who have "devastated" the country, and that the Congress party will unitedly defeat them in the coming days.

"Institutions are under attack in the country, be it Parliament, vidhan sabhas and the judiciary. Minorities, Dalits, women, tribals, small businessmen are under attack. We will fight the BJP and defeat them in the coming days.

"The Congress party and the opposition are working together to fight the ideology of the BJP. We are fighting an ideological battle," he said.

Talking about the women reservation bill, which is pending for the last few years, the Congress chief said the BJP lacks commitment on the issue.

Promising to bring women forward within the Congress and give them their rightful place, Gandhi while pointing to the slogan "your fight is our fight" put up at the conference, said you can add "your right is Congress president's fight".

He said if he faced with a choice between a man and a woman for selecting election candidate, he will choose whoever is more capable.

"If both are equally capable, I will choose the woman as a candidate," Gandhi said.

Gandhi, along with Mahila Congress president Sushmita Dev, unveiled the flag and the symbol of Mahila Congress.

Gandhi also said that the media should no longer worry, while alleging that the BJP and the RSS are frightening them.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Newly appointed Acting Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court Rajiv Sharma today said he would work towards speedy disposal of pending cases such as those related to pension, salaries and service.

Justice Sharma, who was appointed to the post yesterday following elevation of Justice KM Joseph as a Supreme Court judge, also appealed to the lawyers to have a humane touch while dealing with matters of the poor, women and children.

Justice Sharma has some landmark verdicts to his credit, including the ones granting living entity status to the Ganga and the animal kingdom.

He also asked junior lawyers to learn from the seniors and advised the senior lawyers to take upon the duty of teaching the youngsters the intricacies of law.

He also donated an amount of Rs 10,000 to the bar library for procuring more books.

Justice Sharma said this would provide for the younger lawyers who did not have the means to maintain a personal library.

The Bar Association of Uttarakhand High Court welcomed Justice Sharma's appointment as the acting chief justice.

Justice Sharma said he was ever ready to help the lawyers and added he would always be available to solve their problems if the advocates worked with him towards speedy disposal of pending litigation.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A woman was allegedly gang raped in front of her husband in Vadodara city of Gujarat last night, police today said.

Two persons were arrested in the case.

Jaydip Patel, Satyam Pandey and Ajay Patel accosted the woman and her husband in a deserted area in Manjalpur locality late last night, said a local police official.

Jaydip Patel and Satyam Pandey allegedly raped the woman. Later the three of them robbed her and her husband, the official said.

The accused allegedly snatched away the woman's gold earring worth Rs 15,000, two mobile phones and Rs 1,000 from them.

Police today arrested Jaydip Patel and Satyam Pandey under IPC sections 376(D) (gang rape), 392 (robbery) as well as under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act as the couple belongs to a tribal community.

Ajay Patel, the third accused, is yet to be traced, police said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A 32-year-old woman Maoist, operating along the Andhra Pradesh-Odisha border, surrendered in Telangana's Nalgonda district today.

Sheikh Jan Bi, who was working as a area-committee member in Odisha's Malkangiri district, surrendered before the police due to ill-health, Nalgonda Superintendent of Police A V Ranganath told PTI.

The woman, carrying a reward of Rs 4 lakh, joined the Maoists in 2004 and worked in different 'dalams' of Telangana before shifting to Odisha.

She was involved in over half-a-dozen firing incidents on the police, the SP said, adding that she was a native of Uttapalli village of the district.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
An anguished Supreme Court today said that women and girls are getting raped "left, right and centre" across the country as it cited the National Crime Records Bureau data on four such incidents being reported per day, and stressed that action has to be taken stop such crimes.

The court directed that minor victims of such crimes should not be interviewed, except by the State child rights bodies, as it would have serious impact on their welfare and mental wellbeing, and also asked the print, electronic and social media not to publish or display photos of victims of sexual abuses, even in a blurred or morphed form, in any case across the country.

The apex court termed as "horrific" the case of alleged sexual abuse of girls in an NGO-run shelter home at Muzaffarpur in Bihar and pulled up the state government for funding such institution without verifying its credentials.

A bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur asked the Ministry of Women and Child Development to apprise it about the proposed steps to be taken to prevent sexual abuse of minors in shelter homes across the country.

"What is to be done? Girls and women are getting raped left, right and centre. As per the NCRB (National Crime Records Bureau) data, 38,947 cases of rape were reported in 2016 which mean everyday, four women are raped. These are reported statistics," the bench, also comprising justices Deepak Gupta and K M Joseph, said.

The bench said that the number of reported cases of rape in India was "disconcerting".

The apex court, which has taken cognisance of the Bihar incident following a letter by a Patna-based man, said that minor victims of sexual abuse could only be interviewed by members of National Commission For Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) and State Commissions For Protection of Child Rights in presence of trained counsellors.

The bench said that its order would not preclude the investigating agency from conducting probe in this case but made it clear that they would be bound by the direction given by the apex court on August 2.

On August 2, the bench had said that investigation in the Muzaffarpur case be conducted with assistance of professional counsellors or qualified child psychologists appointed in consultation with the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) Bangalore, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) and AIIMS, Delhi.

During the hearing today, the bench referred to reports about alleged sexual exploitation of girls at a shelter home in Deoria in Uttar Pradesh and girls being sold openly in Madhya Pradesh and observed that as per the NCRB statistics, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh were the top two states as far as cases of rapes were concerned.

"This is a matter of great concern. Somebody has to take action to stop such crimes. Somebody has to do it. Every six hours, a women is raped in India," the bench said and posted the matter for hearing on August 14.

The top court also pulled up Bihar government for funding the NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur and asked why credentials of the organisation was not verified.

"All this means is that people are paying taxes and people's money are being used for such activities. Can you imagine this?," the bench said, adding, "Why the state allowed it to happen? It seems that money was given by the state to finance such activities."



Senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, appearing for Bihar, said that the state has taken necessary steps after the incident came to light.

The counsel representing TISS said that Muzaffarpur's incident was not the only one in Bihar as out of 110 such NGO-run institutions in the state, "grave concerns" have been raised about 15 institutions which were government funded.

Kumar said that out of these 15 institutions, FIRs have been lodged in nine matters, including the one in Muzaffarpur shelter home, and people have been arrested in connection with these cases.

The bench suggested that "proper monitoring" of NGO run shelter homes should be done on a day-to-day basis and CCTV cameras should be installed in such institutions to prevent repeat of Muzaffarpur like incident.

The court also said that technology should be used for monitoring of shelter homes and studies done by UNICEF on these issues should also be looked into by the states.

"It (Muzaffarpur) is a horrific incident. We do not want such incidents to repeat in future," the bench said about the Muzaffarpur case in which over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the shelter home run by Brajesh Thakur, the chief of the state-funded NGO.

Advocate Aparna Bhat, assisting the court as an amicus curiae, told the bench that wife of one of the accused in the case has disclosed the names of some of the alleged victims on her Facebook post.

The bench, while saying that action should be taken against the woman for posting such things on Facebook, asked the Bihar government to take appropriate steps.

The bench also pulled up the Delhi Commission for Women for interfering in the case and said it has no business to intervene.

"No politics should be involved in it," the bench said.

The Bihar government said that Muzaffarpur case has been transferred to the CBI and the Patna High Court was monitoring the probe.

The bench made it clear that it was not concerned with the probe and monitoring aspect and its only concern was about protection of child, particularly girls, residing in shelter homes run by the NGOs.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Oman's real estate sector witnessed solid growth in the first half, netting RO1.5 billion ($3.88 billion) from a total of 208,966 transactions during the six-month period, said a report.



Interestingly, out of this figure, a record RO79 million ($205 million) worth of deals were made in just five days - from July 15 to 19, reported Times of Oman, citing data from Omans Ministry of Housing.



The highest number of sales transactions took place in capital Muscat, followed by the governorate of North Al Batinah, it stated.



At the governorate level, a total of 208,966 real estate transactions were recorded in the first half, of which, 39,687 transactions were registered in capital Muscat followed by 11,169 in Dhofar, a top ministry official was quoted as saying in the report.



A total of 31,459 deals were made in South Al Batinah; 43,619 in North Al Batinah; 13,090 in South Al Sharqiyah; 16,110 in North Al Sharqiyah; 27,932 in Al Dakhiliyah; 17,003 in Al Dhahira; 4,389 in Al Buraimi; 1,658 in Musandam and 2,850 in Al Wusta, revealed Abdullah bin Salim Al Mukhaini, the secretary of the Real Estate Registry at the ministry.



The number of title deeds issued across the sultanate rose by 25 per cent to 144,677 during the first half, compared to 115,910 title deeds issued last year, he added.
India's decision to impose a 25 per cent safeguard duty on solar cell imports could cancel out cost savings realised by module oversupply globally and such steps alone are not expected to drive investments in domestic manufacturing, energy consultancy firm Wood Mackenzie said today.

India, the largest importer of Chinese solar equipment, imposed the safeguard duty on July 29 for two years to protect its local industry, a move that may hit plans to boost use of renewable energy.

"As the China market slows down, module prices are expected to fall more rapidly because of increased oversupply. India would have greatly benefited from the cost reduction, as module cost accounts for 50 per cent of all in costs. However, the imposition of safeguard duties cancels 88 per cent of the price reduction," it said in a statement.

Rishab Shrestha, Wood Mackenzie Research Analyst, said the safeguard duty could cancel out cost savings realised by module oversupply.

The net reduction in overall all-in costs is 5 per cent in H2/2018, compared to H1/2018. This is lower than the pre-tariff anticipated reduction of close to 13 per cent.

India's tenders are hyper-competitive and bidders consider forward module price reduction, hence the lower-than-anticipated cost reductions awarded to projects are at risk, he said.

Wood Mackenzie said the initial petition for safeguard duties was filed by the International Solar Manufacturing Agencies (ISMA) in December 2017. The Directorate of Anti-Dumping and Allied Duties (DGAD) recommended 70 per cent safeguard duties in January 2018, but after several consultations opted for a milder recommendation starting at 25 per cent duties.

Safeguard duties also apply to Special Economic Zones (SEZ) based manufacturers within India, which host 40 per cent of the solar project module and 60 per cent of the cell capacity.

"The duty imposed ignores the stay order issued by the Odisha High Court, which directed the government not to issue any notification on safeguard duty until August 20. The status of the stay order remains uncertain," it said.

Stating that the safeguard duty alone is not expected to drive investments in domestic manufacturing, it said duties coupled with manufactured-linked mega tenders provide certainty in offtake at a competitive price.

"The two-year time frame is a very short time for existing manufacturing facilities to upgrade their infrastructure and/or build new facilities all the while recouping the investments," it said.

Domestic module manufacturers have had a hard time competing with the international modules OEMs given the price difference (17 per cent in 2017) due to the economies of scale (Typical Indian manufacturer annual capacity of 1-2 GW vs 8-10 GW for large international OEM). Actual capacity utilization for solar cells and modules is 1.5 GW out of 3.1 GW and 2-3 GW out of 8.8 GW respectively.

"25 per cent duty would have been sufficient for domestic modules to compete if SEZ based manufacturers did not also face the duties," Wood Mackenzie said.

Numerous tenders with manufacturing components are under discussion and show the government's intention to promote the 'Make in India' program.

One such tender was announced in May, where SECI tendered 5 GW of solar manufacturing linked tender with 10 GW of PV power plant projects. These massive tenders have attracted interest from several international players. "Combined support from supply and demand side could potentially create a sizable domestic manufacturing industry," it added.

Cheap imports have pushed down tariffs for solar power to record lows. Solar tariffs fell to a record low of Rs 2.44 rupees a kilowatt-hour in the country's largest auction last month.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Twenty-seven supporters of Zimbabwe's MDC opposition party were released on bail today over alleged violence at last week's post-election protests that triggered a security crackdown.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, declared winner of the historic first elections since the downfall of Robert Mugabe, has vowed to protect rights since his re-election but the opposition say their members have been targeted.

"We are very pleased obviously that they have been released," defence lawyer Denford Halimani told AFP following the hearing at Harare's magistrates court.

Prosectors had opposed bail, saying the accused -- 19 men and eight women -- were "linked" to the deaths of six people when the army opened fire on opposition supporters protesting against alleged election fraud.

At least five of the accused are polling agents who had been visiting MDC headquarters to hand in polling returns and collect travel expenses, according to the defence.

Halimani said that the 27 were required to post bail of $50 (43 euros) and have to report to Harare police station on Friday, but were not forced to surrender their passports.

"The magistrate said the state seemed not to be prepared," he said, adding that they would return to court on September 4 for a bail review.

"We have advised them to lay low and not to engage in any activities that might result in other charges. This system thrives on harassing people." The 27 denied the charges.

Wednesday's bloodshed sparked an international outcry and raised grim memories of post-election repression under Mugabe before he was ousted last year.

Mnangagwa has accused the MDC -- the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) -- of fomenting the unrest, but also said he would set up an independent commission to investigate the killings.

The MDC has also accused the security forces of abducting and beating opposition activists and their families since the knife-edge election result was declared early Friday.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
By Julia LoveMEXICO CITY (Reuters) - American Tower Corp is seeking to recover nearly $97 million from TV Azteca, saying the Mexican broadcaster has defaulted on a loan, according to court papers.In a case filed in a New York state court, MATC Infraestructura, a unit of cell tower owner and operator American Tower, said TV Azteca failed to make a payment on a loan from MATC and has not indicated it will resume doing so. In June, state Supreme Court Judge Tanya Kennedy temporarily barred TV Azteca from selling or transferring assets up to the amount sought by American Tower. The total includes ...
FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Germany's Commerzbank said on Tuesday that it returned to a higher than expected net profit in the second quarter, as the lender focuses on a major overhaul and slightly revised its guidance for 2018.The bank raised its cost target for this year to around 7.1 billion euros ($8.20 billion) from a previous 7.0 billion. It also said that revenues for its corporate clients would be lower in 2018 than last year amid what the bank called "intense competition".Net profit came to 272 million euros in the three months through June, beating the 227 million euros average forecast ...
COPENHAGEN (Reuters) - Danish shipping company A.P. Moller-Maersk slashed its 2018 earnings forecast on Tuesday due to weak second-quarter freight rates and higher prices for bunker fuel, although the downgrade was smaller than feared, analysts said.The world's biggest container shipper also said spot freight rates have restored after a significant drop in the second quarter, and that its volumes are growing in line with the market.Following the unexpected announcement, Maersk's share price initially fell more than 5 percent but shortly after rose to trade 4.6 percent higher for the day at ...
(Reuters) - Facebook Inc said on Monday it is in talks to deepen links with banks and financial institutions, saying it can help the firms improve their customer service.The social media company said users of financial firms such as PayPal , Citibank and American Express could link their financial accounts with Facebook's Messenger and chat with a customer service representative. The Wall Street Journal had reported that Facebook had asked banks to share detailed financial information about their customers, including card transactions and checking-account balances.A Facebook spokeswoman ...
(Reuters) - New U.S. sanctions against Iran took effect on Tuesday, and President Donald Trump, who defied Washington's allies to impose them, pledged that companies doing business with Tehran would be barred from doing business with the United States.Following are comments and responses from companies in Europe which last year did far more business with Tehran than U.S. firms did:DAIMLER German car and truck manufacturer Daimler has dropped plans to expand its Iran business."We have ceased our already restricted activities in Iran in accordance with the applicable sanctions", Daimler said.In ...
By Devidutta Tripathy and Chris ThomasBENGALURU/NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India's Punjab National Bank reported a second straight quarterly loss on Tuesday as it earmarked more funds to cover a massive fraud, but expects faster bad loan recovery to help it return to a profit for the full year.PNB, the fourth-biggest bank by assets among all of India's lenders, in February said it had been defrauded by two jewellery groups which raised more than $2 billion in credit overseas using fake guarantees provided by the bank's staff in Mumbai.The bank is taking every possible measure "so that we can ...
LONDON (Reuters) - GlaxoSmithKline has named Iain Mackay from global bank HSBC as its new chief financial officer, marking another key appointment by Chief Executive Emma Walmsley as she reshapes the top team at Britain's biggest drugmaker.Mackay, 56, will leave HSBC at the end of the year and join GSK on Jan. 14, 2019, when he will become CFO designate, the pharmaceuticals group said on Tuesday.The phased move allows for a transition period from January and the end of March 2019, during which GSK's current finance chief, Simon Dingemans, will hand over the ropes before Mackay takes on full ...
(Reuters) - Federal prosecutors drafted a criminal complaint against a former Goldman Sachs banker early this year for his alleged role in a Malaysian fraud, but the charges were never filed because of a Justice Department turf battle, the New York Times reported on Tuesday.The inquiry is now with federal prosecutors in Brooklyn who are investigating Goldman Sachs itself, the Times reported, citing people familiar with the investigation.The investigation concerns the disappearance of about $4 billion from Malaysian government investment fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad, or 1MDB, the report ...
Marsol International Limited, a leading commercial and technical marine service solutions company, has been awarded ISO 45001:2018 certification by Bureau Veritas.



With its main operating and commercial office in Dubai and extensive experience in the offshore marine terminals business, the accreditation, claimed to be the first company in the UAE to receive it, reflects Marsols commitment to superior standards and employee safety, said a statement from the company.



The ISO 45001:2018 was developed to replace OHSAS 18001:2007 and is intended to enable organisations to proactively improve occupational health and safety (OH&S) performance, it said.



It provides a framework to help improve employee safety, reduce workplace risks and create better, safer working conditions  areas which are recognised to have particular impact within the oil and gas industry, it added.



Mike Young, director at Marsol, said: We work to create and develop local resources and capability to facilitate efficient, superior, in-country operations.



We work to the latest international standards within the oil industry and have a focus on ensuring our work is carried out to superior standards. It makes sense for our business to include the new ISO 45001:2018 standard within our operations, he added.



Being the first to achieve the accreditation in the UAE reflects Marsols forward-looking approach to operational activities within the oil industry. Its experience spans development, design and construction of purpose built terminal support vessels and assets and includes co-development of Oil Spill Response Plans for major global stakeholders, said a statement.



Having worked in more than 20 countries, the new international OH&S framework used by Marsol will support its work to serve the global oil industry, it said.



Young said: We are passionate about the work we do and OH&S is a big part of that, which is why we have been so keen to embrace the new ISO standard.



Our services concentrate on enhancing operational integrity and cost efficiency, optimising the lifetime of an asset, maximising availability and reducing risk. Working towards a safer working environment is better for us, our employees and our clients, he added.  TradeArabia News Service
NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India doubled the import tax on some textile products to 20 percent, the government said in a statement on Tuesday, increasing duty on fabric-related commodities for the second time in a month.The move is expected to provide relief to the domestic textile industry, which has been hit by a rise in imports of certain products.India last month also raised import duty on some textile products such as fibre and apparels. (Reporting by Sudarshan Varadhan; Editing by Sanjeev Miglani)(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a ...
By Rajendra Jadhav and Sudarshan VaradhanNEW DELHI/MUMBAI (Reuters) - India doubled the import tax on more than 300 textile products to 20 percent on Tuesday as the world's biggest producer of cotton tries to curb rising imports from China.It was the second tax hike on textiles in as many months after an increase on other products including fibre and apparels last month.The moves are expected to provide relief to the domestic textile industry, which has been hit by cheaper imports. India's total textile imports jumped by 16 percent to a record $7 billion in the fiscal year to March 2018. Of ...
By Duncan MiririNAIROBI (Reuters) - Kenya's competition watchdog expressed concern on Tuesday about the wider economic impact of lawmakers and the country's telecoms regulator taking a tough line on dominant operator Safaricom, saying no action was needed."Any regulation focusing on the sector should have a multi-agency approach because its effects would cut across all the drivers of the economy," Wang'ombe Kariuki, the director general of the Competition Authority told the Kenyan parliament's communication and information committee.Kariuki said the Competition Authority had not found any ...
By Aditi ShahNEW DELHI (Reuters) - Indian ride-hailing firm Ola said on Tuesday it plans to launch services in Britain this year, months after expanding operations in Australia, intensifying its rivalry with U.S. peer Uber Technologies Inc.Ola has obtained licences to begin operations in South Wales in September, as well as Greater Manchester, and plans to expand nationwide by the end of the year, it said in a statement.The firm will offer private vehicles for hire as well as Britain's famous black cabs on its platform, and will add more transportation options going forward.Ola and Uber, ...
By Olesya Astakhova and Diana AsonovaMOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia's largest oil producer Rosneft said on Tuesday its second-quarter net profit more than tripled to 228 billion roubles ($3.6 billion) on higher production and prices, pushing its shares to an all-time peak. Rosneft, in which Qatar is set to become the third-largest shareholder after the Russian state and BP, said its profit was also supported by a one-off gain from a share acquisition in an upstream joint venture and the revaluation of a stake in another joint venture.Headed by Igor Sechin, a close ally of Russian President ...
HAMBURG (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia's main state wheat buying agency has told grains exporters it will no longer buy Canadian wheat and barley in its international tenders, European traders said on Tuesday, as a diplomatic dispute between the two countries escalates.Traders said they had received an official notice from the Saudi Grains Organization (SAGO) about its decision.Canada on Monday refused to back down in its defence of human rights after Saudi Arabia froze new trade and investment and expelled the Canadian ambassador in retaliation for Ottawa's call to free arrested Saudi civil ...
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States has asked the Saudi government for more details on the detention of activists and urged it to respect due process, a State Department official said on Monday, in the first comments by Washington since a dispute erupted between Riyadh and Ottawa over the arrest of rights campaigners."We have asked the Government of Saudi Arabia for additional information on the detention of several activists," a State Department official said in a statement, calling both Saudi Arabia and Canada "close allies.""We continue to encourage the Government of Saudi Arabia to ...
By David LawderWASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States will begin collecting 25 percent tariffs on another $16 billion in Chinese goods on Aug. 23, the U.S. Trade Representative's office said on Tuesday as it published a final tariff list targeting 279 imported product lines.The action is the latest by U.S. President Donald Trump to put pressure on China to negotiate trade concessions after imposing tariffs on $34 billion in goods last month. China has vowed to retaliate to an equal degree. The latest $16 billion list will hit semiconductors from China, even though many of the basic chips in ...
By Marianna Parraga and Mircely GuanipaHOUSTON/PUNTO FIJO (Reuters) - Venezuela's state-run oil company PDVSA has limited the damage from an unprecedented slump in crude exports by transferring oil between tankers at sea and loading vessels in neighbouring Cuba to avoid asset seizures.But the OPEC member nation is still fulfilling less than 60 percent of its obligations under supply deals with customers.Venezuela has been pumping oil this year at the lowest rate in three decades after years of underinvestment and a mass exodus of workers. The state-run firm's collapse has left the country ...
Antigua and Barbuda group of islands has assured the Indian government that it will consider its request to extradite Mehul Choksi, co-accused in the Rs 13,600 crore Punjab National Bank loan fraud. The development comes as a shot in the arm for Indian investigative agencies and the government who have been criticised for letting him slip out of the country.

India Today has learnt that Antiguan authorities have informed India that Choksi can still be extradited despite the absence of an extradition treaty since both the countries are members of the Commonwealth of Nations.

Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Manpreet Vohra met Antiguan foreign external affairs minister E Paul Chet Greene late on Friday night and handed over the extradition request.

Antigua, according to sources, also confirmed the presence of Choksi on its soil. Both the nations have figured out that Choksi's extradition can take place under provisions of Antigua's Extradition Act, 1993.

Paving the way for Choksi's extradition, India has also notified the Extradition Act, 1962 on August 3. "In exercise of the powers conferred by the subsection (1) of section 3 of the Extradition Act, 1962, the Central Government hereby directs that the provisions of the Extradition Act, 1962, shall apply with respect to Antigua and Barbuda with effect from August 3, 2018, as a Designated Commonwealth Country under the provisions of Extradition Act, 1993, of Antigua and Barbuda," the government notified.

The Central Bureau of Investigation sent the request under United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), which is the only legally binding universal anti-corruption instrument. Both India and Antigua are members of the treaty due to which St John's is legally bound to extradite Choksi.

UNCAC covers five main areas: preventive measures, criminalisation and law enforcement, international cooperation, asset recovery, technical assistance and information exchange. It also covers several other forms of corruption such as bribery, trading in influence, abuse of functions and various acts of dubious deals in the private sector.

UNCAC aims at returning assets to their rightful owners, including countries from which they have been taken illicitly. Choksi, who now has a citizenship of Antigua, fled from India on January 4.

He was in the US till July 7, but before the agencies started the process to bring him back, he fled to Antigua and since then he is holed up in the Caribbean nation. Antiguan authorities claim that he was given citizenship after clearances from the MEA.
US President Donald Trump has reimposed major financial sanctions on Iran, targeting currency purchases and key industries.

The move comes three months after he pulled US out of the 2015 nuclear agreement between Tehran and world powers.

Trump repeated his longstanding position that the 2015 accord which provided Tehran with relief from sanctions in return for curbs on its nuclear programme was a horrible, one-sided deal."

"The Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilising behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy or continue down a path of economic isolation, Trump said in the statement released by the White House.

The US measures taking effect on August 7 target Iran's automotive sector and renowned carpet-making industry, as well as its trade in gold and other metals. US officials said the Iranian government would also no longer be able to buy US dollars.

Trump said the US policy is to levy maximum economic pressure on the country, while hoping for new negotiations between Iran and the US that would result in another, more wide-ranging accord.
The Modi government is inviting global investors for social and infrastructural development programme in the islands of Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshadweep. The government will hold a pre-bid meeting with potential investors on August 10 in order to make the terms more accommodative, a person in the know said, as mentioned in a report in Livemint. It must be mentioned that with its trade and surveillance potential Andaman and Nicobar Islands are of great maritime importance to India.

A transhipment terminal at Campbell Bay at Great Nicobar is one of the key projects among the 10 programmes identified by the government. These projects are part of the Centre's island development plan prepared by government's policy think tank NITI Aayog. The projects for which EoIs are sought are wide-ranging including areas such as road, sea and air connectivity, digital connectivity, healthcare, education, clean energy and development of resorts.

Experts believe this is a beneficial step for the islands. Former naval chief, Admiral Arun Prakash said that while Andaman and Nicobar Islands have huge natural resources, the same never got developed because of opposition from environmentalists. He also said that India should be developing these islands for tourists and other potential projects. Malaysia, Indonesia as well as the Chinese have been developing their islands and India should too, he said.

There are 572 islands in the territory but only a few are inhabited.

The report also said that NITI Aayog is planning to draw up a revenue model for building sea connectivity projects in public-private partnership mode, especially for automobile-carrying ships. Also part of the plan is proposals for resorts at the islands of Minicoy, Suheli and Kadmat at Lakshadweep. Investors who are already present in the islands will be encouraged to participate in the projects along with non-resident Indians (NRIs). Development of water desalination plants and waste management are also part of the development plans.

Plans to boost air connectivity and to promote helicopter tourism are already underway. An agency called the Island Development Agency to develop the maritime economy was set up in June that has been working with NITI Aayog.

The development plan also seeks to extend the benefits of these programmes to businesses in the Northeast. These benefits include subsidy on capital investment and interest on working capital loans and reimbursement of the central government's share of GST.

(Edited by Anwesha Madhukalya)
Ailing DMK chief M Karunanidhi passed away on Tuesday after his health deteriorated significantly, the Kauvery Hospital authorities said. The DMK patriarch was admitted to the hospital on July 28 after his blood pressure declined.

Earlier during the day, the hospital authorities said: "There has been a significant decline in the clinical condition of Kalaignar M Karunanidhi over the past few hours." Karunanidhi's vital organ functions continued to deteriorate for the past few days, including altered liver and haematological parameters. The 94-year-old five-time chief minister of the southern state of Tamil Nadu was being continuously monitored and treated with active medical support.

One of the most charismatic figures of Tamil Nadu politics whose public life spanned over seven decades, is survived by two wives and six children, including DMK working president and heir apparent M K Stalin and daughter Kanimozhi, a Rajya Sabha MP. The most enduring mascot of the Dravidian movement breathed his last at 6.10 pm.

Karunanidhi's death comes barely 20 months after that of J Jayalalithaa, his long-time political foe and another bright star that faded from Tamil Nadu's political firmament on December 5, 2016.

The sharp-tongued, quick witted Karunanidhi was a five-time chief minister, who wielded considerable influence beyond his own state, in the corridors of power in New Delhi, for a long time, sewing up alliances with both the Congress and the BJP.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao condoled the death of the DMK president, saying the demise of the veteran leader is a great loss to the country's politics.

7.45pm: PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti says Karunanidhi was an extraordinary politician with rare political acumen and administrative skills, which made him a distinct leader not only in the state of Tamil Nadu but in Indian politics too.

Deeply saddened to hear of the passing away of Shree Karunanidhi. He was an extraordinary politician with rare political acumen & administrative skills which made him a distinct leader not only in the state of Tamil Nadu but in Indian politics too. 1/2 - Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) August 7, 2018

7.27pm: Emotional scenes outside Kauvery Hospital in Chennai.

DMK Chief M Karunanidhi passes away. Watch #ITLivestream for all the latest updates! https://t.co/kp54ZiOjft - India Today (@IndiaToday) August 7, 2018

7.26pm: BJP leader Nitin Gadkari and Shivraj Singh Chouhan also paid respects to the DMK patriarch. "Saddened to know about the demise of Thiru M Karunanidhi. May His soul rest in peace. My deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu," says Gadkari.

7.25pm: President Ram Nath Kovind gives condolences to the family and his millions of well-wishers.

Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers #PresidentKovind - President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 7, 2018

7.22pm: Congress leader Shashi Tharoor says Tamil politics can never be the same again.

News has just come in of the passing of Kalaignar Muthuvel Karunanidhi, a giant of Indian politics as CM of Tamil Nadu & a screenplay writer who gave voice to the Dravidian movement through his immortal dialogues. Tamil politics can never be the same again. RIP. - Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) August 7, 2018

I have had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi Ji on several occasions. His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered. pic.twitter.com/cbMiMPRy7l - Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadu's voice was effectively heard, says PM Modi.

7.07pm: We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, and accomplished writer, says PM Narendra Modi.

Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised. pic.twitter.com/jOZ3BOIZMj - Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

6.58pm: Music composer D Imman says the state has lost another eminent leader.

#RIPKalaignar DMK President Former Chief Minister Dr.Karunanidhi passed away.Our State lost another eminent leader.Heartfelt Condolences. pic.twitter.com/4iNVZpfET6 - D.IMMAN (@immancomposer) August 7, 2018

Doctors had said on Monday that the next 24 hours would be crucial for his health and that keeping his vital organs functioning had been a "challenge".

"There has been a decline in the medical condition of DMK president and former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. Maintaining his vital organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age-related ailments. His response to the medical interventions over the next 24 hours will determine the prognosis," Executive Director of the Hospital, Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, had said in a press release.

His son and DMK working president MK Stalin called on Chief Minister K Palaniswami on Tuesday and apprised him about his father's declining health. Meanwhile, a general alert has been sounded across the state, and the security has been stepped up at major installations, including the Gopalapuram residence of the nonagenarian leader.

(With PTI inputs)

(Edited by Manoj Sharma)
In mid-March this year, as the Rs 14,000-crore fraud at Punjab National Bank was steadily unravelling, then Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had disclosed in Parliament that 1,213 fraudulent letters of undertaking (LoUs) had been issued to Nirav Modi's companies between March 2011 and May 2017. That was the modus operandi of the fraud perpetuated by the diamantaire-turned-fugitive and his uncle, Mehul Choksi.

In response, the RBI had banned the instrument with immediate effect, but now finds itself hauled up by a parliamentary panel for its "kneejerk reaction".

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce yesterday asked the apex bank to restore LoUs at the earliest with "proper safeguards" so as to increase the availability of credit for traders. "The Committee feels that the RBI got unnerved with the PNB fraud and it hastened the decision to ban LoU/LoC without much thought and consideration," read a report tabled in the Rajya Sabha, titled Impact of Banking Misappropriation on Trade and Industry.

According to the committee, the RBI should have engaged more in consultations with stakeholders on the matter before resorting to discontinuation of LoU/LoCs [letters of comfort].

The report further claimed that the ban resulted in a jump in the cost of credit by 2-2.5 per cent. Previously, these instruments were largely issued by domestic branches of Indian banks for customers to avail trade credit from foreign branches of other Indian banks and, thus, ease the high cost of imports.

The panel pointed out that the increased cost of financing would only hurt the cost-competitiveness of country's trade and industry, and have a cascading effect on jobs. And the loss of jobs is something the country can ill-afford.

"It is of the considered opinion that LoU/LoC should be restored at the earliest albeit with proper safeguards. Its restoration assumes more significance in the face of the fact that the content of imports is over 20 per cent of India's total exports," said the report. "The ban on LoU/LoC takes away the benefit of cheap source of funds availed by the importers. Costly imports shall lead to higher costs of production and erode the competitiveness of the domestically produced goods."

The committee also pointed out that at a time when the rupee is witnessing high depreciation, it is imperative that the cost of credit for imports be minimal.

Significantly, the report stated that the discontinuation of LoU/LoC as a response to the fraud and misappropriation not only hurt importers, but also set in a contagion of conservatism in banking sector. "The caution has inadvertently made banks becoming inaccessible to MSME [Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises] sector," it said, adding, "The Committee is concerned that such an approach has the dangers of making banking services elitist and subservient to a few large corporates leaving out the vast majority of MSME units which are not able to measure to the standards and parameters laid down by external credit rating agencies for getting AAA or AA ratings."

This development is sure to bring cheer to the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO). The apex exporters lobby had written to the RBI and finance ministry in April, asking the authorities to lift the blanket ban on LoUs/LoCs. At the time, FIEO director general Ajay Sahay had said that the gems & jewellery exports - which used to rely heavily on these instruments - had contracted by a massive 36 per cent following the ban. It was the small traders in particular, who were left paying the price for a billionaire scamster's greed.

With PTI inputs
Apex auditor Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has found the most of the central public sector enterprises (CPSEs) spent bulk of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds in states like Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.

Of CSR expenditure of 77 CPSEs under 24 Ministries that were reviewed for compliance with the provisions of the Companies Act, 2013, CSR Rules and Department of Public Enterprises Office Memorandums, very few concentrated on Punjab and north-eastern states like Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Sikkim, CAG points out.

In the General Purpose Financial Report of CPSEs, Commercial, tabled in Parliament on Tuesday, CAG said that in the case of 26 CPSEs, Rs 66.6 crore of a total of Rs 75.61 crore CSR spend went towards salaries of CSR staff which was inadmissible.

While there was delay in the constitution of CSE committees in the case of 15 CPSEs, 13 Profit making CPSEs did not allocate the prescribed amount of CSR and 24 CPSEs had not defined the local area of their operations, it observed.

The CAG report also says that 11 out of 18 CPSEs audited failed to source 20 per cent of their total procurement requirements from micro and small enterprises as mandated by the government's public procurement policy.

Also, nine CPSEs in the list excluded significant quantum of their procurement while reporting compliance with the policy of purchasing specified percentage of goods and services from MSEs during 2015-16 and 2016-2017. There were also significant outstanding payables to MSEs in eight CPSEs though it was mandatory to make such payments within 45 days. While four CPSEs procured items designated for procurement from MSEs from non MSEs, 11 CPSEs followed the provisions of Purchase Preference Clause of the Policy benefitting a total of 5553 MSEs, CAG notes.

It observed that the practice of downgrading through deduction of marks while rating the CPSEs for non-achievement of targets by the administrative ministries, had not proved an effective deterrent against non-implementation of the policy.

Corporate governance was another area where CAG found significant departures by CPSEs from the prescribed guidelines. It said that representation of independent directors was inadequate in 37 CPSEs while there was no independent director on the Board of directors of 4 others. There was no woman director on the Board of Directors of 9 CPSEs.

There was no whistle blower mechanism in 3 CPSEs and the audit committees of 7 CPSEs did not review the whistle blower mechanism at all, CAG pointed out.

During 2016-17, the total investment in 406 government companies and corporations registered a net increase of Rs 40,992 crore. In the case of 173 governments controlled companies, the investment increased by Rs 4,320 crore, the audit report said.
07 Aug 2018, 1:26 PM

PepsiCo's Indra Nooyi to step down after 12 years as CEO

PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi will step down on October 3 after a 12-year stint at the helm of food and beverage multinational. The 62-year-old India-born executive has spent 24 years at PepsiCo. The company announced that its Board of Directors has unanimously elected Ramon Laguarta to succeed Nooyi as Chief Executive Officer.

Jet Airways releases salaries to employees, decides against pay cut

Cornered by protesting employees and unflattering media reports over the past week, the country's second largest airline Jet Airways has reportedly scrapped plans to trim its operating costs through salary cuts.

Dunkin' Donuts shuts more than half of its stores in India in 2 years

Jubilant FoodWorks Ltd (JFL) the franchisee partner of popular fast food chains like Domino's Pizza has shut down more than half of its Dunkin' Donuts stores across the country in the last two years. According to people in the know it is now focussing more on smaller stores and kiosks to cut its losses. Jubilant FoodWorks confirmed the development and said that they have already brought down their losses to half in the June quarter.

Android Pie is official; best features that will make it to your smartphone

Five months after the launch of Android P, the new operating system has been finally made official as Android Pie. The stable build of the operating system is available to Pixel devices and is expected to make it to other phones running on Android P Program and Android One.

Govt to invite fresh bids for 100 per cent stake sale in Pawan Hans

Will the government get third-time lucky in its attempt to sell off Pawan Hans? The Department of Disinvestment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) has floated the offer to sell government's 51 per cent stake in the profit-making helicopter services provider twice in the past year. And now, after Oil and Natural Gas Corp's (ONGC) board recently approved divesting its entire 49 per cent stake in the entity, the government is going to issue an amended expression of interest (EoI) shortly.

Antigua is ready to hand over Mehul Choksi to India

Antigua and Barbuda group of islands has assured the Indian government that it will consider its request to extradite Mehul Choksi, co-accused in the Rs 13,600 crore Punjab National Bank loan fraud. The development comes as a shot in the arm for Indian investigative agencies and the government who have been criticised for letting him slip out of the country.
Benelli, a Chinese-owned Italian motorcycle manufacturer is all set to make its comeback into the Indian market with a new partner. The company has plans to roll out four or six models in the Indian market by 2019.

The plant will be located near Hyderabad where the complete knock-down (CKD) parts would be assembled. The plant will initially carry a capacity of 7,000 units per year. However, the capacity can be increased depending on the demand.

Benelli had earlier ended its ties with DSK Motowheels. This paved a way for its liaison with Adishwar Auto Ride International. Adishwar Auto Ride International is a subsidiary of the Mahavir Group. This will mark the entry of Mahavir Group into the motorcycle manufacturing business.

The partnership entitles Adishwar to assemble, manufacture bikes and import exclusive range of the bikes from Italy and Southeast Asian regions, managing director of Benelli India Vikas Jhabakh said in a press conference.

Established in 1911, Benelli is one of the oldest Italian motorcycle-manufacturer and has presence in over 60 countries such as America, Africa, Europe and Asia Pacific regions.

"In 2005, Benelli became part of Qjian Jiang Group, China. As of now, we are selling about 2,500 bikes in India. We aim to assemble 10,000 units in the first phase. Once we reach that figure, we aim to go in for production here," he said.

The first bike would roll out in October this year and Benelli plans to roll out four or six models in the Indian market by end-2019, he added.

The deal will lead to the introduction of the the famous Benelli TRK 502 adventure tourer and the Benelli Leoncino 500 scrambler to the Indian market. Bikes like TNT 300 naked, the faired TNT 302R, and the TNT 600i naked will also be re-introduced.

TNT 300, 302R, and TNT 600i are expected to reach the dealers by October. TRK 502 X, Leoncino 500 and the Leoncino 500 Trail are expected to be launched during the same time.

As of now, there is no confirmation of the price of the above mentioned bikes.

Edited By Rahul Bhargave
NRB Bearings, one of the top auto-ancillary companies in India, is in top gear to meet the likely challenges in the field of automobiles and shift towards hybrid and electric vehicles in future, said Harshbeena Zaveri, vice chairman and managing director.

"We have a dedicated research and development team working on products required for such vehicles. One such prototype is already ready and we have taken patent for a product that will significantly reduce weight of bearings," she said.

NRB Bearings shall be investing 200 crores within the next three years as they have some very ambitious growth plans. Every year the company is bringing out new products and offer customized solutions for its main suppliers, she said.

The company has three manufacturing units in Aurangabad and one each in Hyderabad and Uttarkhand, besides a manufacturing unit in Thailand and a marketing unit in Germany.

NRB, India's largest needle and cylindrical roller bearings producer, currently makes around 2500 products. NRB is the first Indian component supplier to Audi for engines and its customers include Daimler for Trucks and Mercedes cars, ZF and Getrag (two of Europe's largest Gearbox manufacturers), Honda and Mazda for cars, and every single Japanese two wheeler manufacturer.

Through ancillaries, NRB supplies bearings for the gearbox of Lamborghini and Maserati.

"All the products we currently make may not be required for electric and hybrid vehicles in future, but we are already developing products that will suit automotive transmission systems of future," she said.

However, when and how the big change will happen, what kind of support the governments are going to provide in creating infrastructure for such vehicles etc. are going to be important in popularizing such vehicles, she said.

She said NRB Bearings, which had a total income of Rs 859 crore last year, had 37 per cent growth in exports to original equipment makers. NRB exports 25 per cent of its production, mainly to Europe and the US.

Harshbeena Zaveri said unlike its competitors, the company looks at generating more profitability and had Rs 93 crore profits at the group level in 2017-18, a jump of 75 per cent over the previous year figures of Rs 53 crore.
Debt-stressed Air India has yet again delayed the disbursement of salary to its employees. The staff of the state-run carrier has not received their salary for July - making it the fifth consecutive month when salary is not credited on time. According to a PTI report, the national carrier, which is facing acute financial crunch, is yet to issue any specific communication on when the payments are likely to be made.

Air India has more than 11,000 permanent staff and it generally disburses the salaries by 30th or 31st of every month.

On July 26, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha told the Lok Sabha that there was a short delay in the payment of salaries for May and that the same was paid subsequently. "Salaries have been paid to all employees, including the salary for the month of June, 2018, which was paid on July 2, 2018," the Minister had said.

After Air India defaulted on salary in May, one of its pilots' unions had urged the management to ensure that the situation is not repeated in the future. "It is disheartening to note that the salaries have again been delayed for the month (May). This is for the fourth consecutive month that this has been happening....this definitely does not augur well for any organisation, especially an airline," the Indian Commercial Pilots Association had said.

"We request you to make sure that the present situation is not repeated in the future and we look forward to having a conducive atmosphere for the turnaround," it said in a letter to the management on June 11.

Earlier in June, Air India had sought proposals for short-term loans worth Rs 1,000 crore to meet urgent working capital requirements.

The government is in the process of injecting Rs 980 crore in ailing national carrier during the current financial year. Last week, Reuters reported that Air India had sought Rs 2,121 crore of additional equity from the government for 2018-19 to make pending payments to its vendors.

In the current fiscal, the state-run airline received an equity infusion of Rs 650 crore till June. It has borrowed Rs 6,250 crore from various banks between September last year and January this year for immediate requirements and other needs.

(With inputs from PTI)
Xiaomi started selling their smartphones and other products on their own e-commerce website in India and managed to become the third biggest smartphone seller in the online space. Vivo took the hint and started their own e-commerce platform called Vivo e-store in January this year. To build traction on their website, Vivo is now conducting a sale to celebrate India's Independence Day.

The company is conducting Freedom Carnival from August 7 to August 9. Under the carnival, the company is offering its best smartphones at unbelievable prices. However, these devices will only be available via flash sales. Other than flash sales, Vivo will be providing exclusive discounts, coupons, and deals on smartphones and accessories.

The biggest deals will come in the form of flash sales. Vivo's latest and greatest NEX with FullView Display is selling at a price of Rs 1,947. The device normally sells at a price of Rs 47,990. Vivo V9, another popular phone by the Chinese company will also be selling at the same price under the Freedom Carnival Sale. The flash sale will start at 12 pm and will end till the stocks last. However, at prices like these, the sale is not expected to last longer than a few minutes if not seconds.

Other products available during the flash sale will be Vivo's Premium Earphone, Vivo USB Cable, and Vivo's basic earphone XE100. All these products will sell at a price of Rs 72.

Vivo is also offering special discounts on other smartphones. The Vivo Y66 is selling at a flat discount of Rs 4,000 down from Rs 12,990 to Rs 8,990. Vivo Y55s is selling at Rs 8,490 down from Rs 10,990. Vivo V69 with the company's Moonlight Selfie feature is selling at a price of Rs 9,990, down from Rs 13,990.

The company is also offering coupons for people who participate in 'Spin and Win' contest. The user will have to log in or create a new Vivo account to participate in this contest.
Agriculture Minister Michael Creed last week attended the signing of a contract for a 23.5 million, 216m long quay development project and associated works on Dinish Island, Castletownbere.



The Project will double the workable quay space on Dinish Island in Castletownbere and will enable significant expansion in fish landings, on shore processing and general marine activity at this major port.

The project has been proposed for part funding under Irelands European Maritime and Fisheries Fund Operational Programme, co-funded the Government of Ireland and the European Union.



Speaking last week, Minister Breen said, "We want to see Ireland become the hub for all the marine activities that can be generated by the sustainable harvesting of these renewable resources in our marine sphere. Developing our Fishery Harbour Centres, such as Castletownbere, to facilitate our industry and be able to attract and handle these landings is a key step in achieving our ambitions in this area."

Source: www.businessworld.ie
Dubai-based Phanes Group, an international end-to-end solar provider, today (August 7) announced the 2nd edition of its Solar Incubator programme, aimed at identifying PV projects of potential in sub-Saharan Africa by providing support to funding, and commercial and technical knowledge.



The initiative held under the theme, Your Project, Our Expertise, For a Sustainable Future, will be held in collaboration with Hogan Lovells, responsAbility Renewable Energy Holding, RINA and Solarplaza, and invites PV developers to submit proposals for projects based in sub-Saharan Africa that have a clear corporate social responsibility (CSR) component, said a statement from the company.



Candidates are asked to submit their proposals by September 27 (11.59 pm CET) via the process established on Phanes Groups website. Those who are shortlisted will be invited to present their projects to an expert panel comprised of the Solar Incubator partners at the Unlocking Solar Capital: Africa 2018 conference in Kigali, Rwanda, on November 7 and 8, where the industrys key players will hold extensive discussions on solutions for Africas solar energy requirements and bridging the bankability gap, it said.



It comes as part of Phanes Group's core strategy to collaborate with Africa-focused counterparties, such as local project owners, governments, and developers on projects that seek to create a sustainable future for urban and rural communities across the sub-Saharan African region, it added.



Martin Haupts, chief executive officer, Phanes Group, said: The majority of our business focus lies in electrifying new markets in sub-Saharan Africa.



With CSR at the heart of our business model, we launched this initiative with the goal of bringing bankability to projects that stand to provide clean energy to economies that need it most. The incubator programme is an example of this.



Entering our Solar Incubator means creating the opportunity to not only win, but the possibility to gain further exposure to key industry players through the evaluation panel. We have already seen great success from last years projects, and we are confident that as this initiative continues to grow, more and more businesses across the continent will be able to effectively address local needs for clean and affordable energy, he added.



Christopher Cross, partner of law firm Hogan Lovells, who will be part of the evaluation panel at the event, said: We are delighted to be invited again this year to take part in such an exciting and on-the-ground initiative such as this. I had a great experience last year and very much look forward to seeing what is in store for us in Rwanda.



As stated previously, the incubator seeks to foster both local innovation and investment to bring potential opportunities to fruition for the social and economic benefit of the region and its people, he added.



With almost 700 million people in sub-Saharan Africa living without electricity, the Phanes Group Solar Incubator aims to enable solutions by supporting developers not only during the funding phase, but throughout the project development and delivery, said a statement.



Phanes Group, along with its partners, will provide PV developers with access to the expertise that will support them in reaching bankability. During the initial phase, extensive mentorship and access to the right network will enable this years winner(s) to roll out a sustainable energy solution for their community and develop a long-term CSR concept, it said.



Wilfred van den Bos, head of investments, responsAbility Renewable Energy Holding, said: We are proud to be participating in the Phanes Group Solar Incubator once again this year.



It is important to ensure that energy projects within the solar sector start and remain financially viable, and we hope that our continued partnership will foster successful entrepreneurship that will benefit communities across sub-Saharan Africa, he added.



Lee Smith, sector manager, RINA, said: Our company is proud to partner with Phanes Group again for the incubator programme, which produced some interesting projects in 2017.



It was encouraging to see the emergence of strong CSR propositions in line with the vision of the initiative. We look forward to this years proposals and helping to shape the winners future, he said.



Similar to last year, the developer(s) of the winning project(s) will be invited to join Phanes Group for an intensive workshop at its headquarters in Dubai, UAE. This will help lay the foundations for delivering a bankable and sustainable project, it stated.  TradeArabia News Service
A few U.S. companies that moved offshore in a wave of inversion deals are considering returning to the United States now that domestic tax rates are lower and tax policing is tougher abroad, attorneys and consultants said.

A handful of clients have asked about redomestication, which could involve buying a U.S.-headquartered company, the tax advisers said. No specific companies or deals were identified.

Uncertainties about U.S. Republican President Donald Trump's trade policies have also prompted the conversations, the advisers said.

"Inverted companies have reason to look at whether or not it still makes sense for them to be offshore, particularly those that manufacture product outside the U.S. and sell it back into the U.S.," said Pam Olson, a Washington-based tax expert at accounting and consulting group PwC.

A surge of homecomings would reverse an on-again, off-again trend since the 1980s of U.S. companies reincorporating overseas to cut tax costs.

In an inversion, a U.S. company typically buys a smaller foreign firm in a lower-tax country and adopts the acquired firm's headquarters.

That maneuver means the company does not have to pay U.S. taxes on foreign income, even if its management and operations remain in the United States.

Trump's public shaming of companies that move plants and jobs overseas has also made some consumer-focused firms rethink inversions, advisers said.

Executives at inverted companies see less tax "friction" under the new tax regime that would discourage redomiciling, advisers said, and have also mentioned the appeal of corporate-friendly, low-tax states and improved access to U.S. government contracts in the discussions.

More than 60 U.S. companies have inverted, including medical device maker Medtronic Plc. There was a wave of deals in 2011-2014, but inversions largely ended in 2015 after a regulatory crackdown by Democratic President Barack Obama.

Pfizer Inc walked away from a $160 billion merger with Ireland-based Allergan Plc in 2016 because of new U.S. Treasury rules.

The Trump administration last month finalized and left in place the Obama-era rules.

The Republican tax overhaul signed into law in December eliminated a key inversion incentive by slashing the U.S. corporate rate to 21% from 35% and altering how foreign profits are taxed.

A push to prevent profit-shifting strategies and corporate tax base erosion across the 36-nation Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development is also making foreign tax domiciles marginally less attractive, especially in Europe.

Tax advisers said it is still possible to structure lower tax rates in countries such as Ireland and the Netherlands.

How the U.S. Treasury implements parts of the new tax law will help determine whether companies return to the United States.

A new tax on Global Intangible Low Taxed Income, or GILTI, on its face imposes a 10.5% tax rate. But because the bill is poorly worded, it can result in rates of 15% or more due to unfavorable effects on foreign tax credits.

GILTI's implementation could influence tax-base decisions among companies redomiciled in Britain, which may consider whether to relocate to the United States or other countries to avoid the effects of Brexit.

Redomiciling to the United States is a case-by-case decision, said Joe Calianno, tax partner at financial advisory firm BDO.

"It really is a modeling exercise to determine whether it's more beneficial being a U.S.-based company versus a foreign-based company," he said. (Reuters)

Source: www.businessworld.ie
Ryanair proposed that a third-party mediator join talks with a trade union representing its Irish pilots who went on strike for a fourth time on Friday before wider stoppages planned around Europe next week.

The Forsa trade union, which had called for such mediation, welcomed Ryanair's response and said it would recommend it to pilots.

Europe's biggest airline by passenger numbers agreed to recognise unions for the first time late last year but negotiations since have faltered.

It has seen strikes in some of its biggest markets including Ireland, Spain and Italy as it struggles to reach collective labour agreements with trade unions.

Around a quarter of Ryanair's 350 pilots based in Ireland have taken part in a series of one-day strikes and a number picketed in the rain outside Dublin airport on Friday morning.

Ryanair has limited the damage from the Irish strikes so far and said passengers on the 20 flights it cancelled from the 300 that flew in and out of Ireland on Friday were either put on another flight or refunded.

However it faces greater disruption next Friday with Irish pilots joining colleagues in Sweden and Belgium on strike, and Ryanair braced for action in Germany and the Netherlands on the same day.

So far that has forced Ryanair to cancel 6% of the more than 2,400 flights it has scheduled across Europe next Friday - a further 20 to and from Ireland, 22 in and out of Sweden and 104 in Belgium.

Ryanair shares were down 0.2% at 12.98 euros by 1455 GMT, near two-year lows and well below the level hit in December when it shocked the markets by ending 32 years of refusing to recognise unions.

While the Irish airline has signed recognition deals in some markets, it has failed to do so in others and not yet reached any collective labour agreements.

"This is part and parcel of life in aviation when you recognise unions," Ryanair Chief Marketing Officer Kenny Jacobs told Ireland's Newstalk radio station, pointing to years of wrangling over pay and conditions at rival Lufthansa.

"There is going to be disruption, it will be small, we will manage it... We are making progress around the rest of Europe, strikes can be part of that process, they are not helpful, but we will get collective labour agreements in place over the autumn in our key markets." (Reuters)

Source: www.businessworld.ie
Authorities are rushing to contain the first-ever outbreak in China of African swine fever  a disease that is highly deadly to pigs and could wreak havoc in the worlds largest pork market.

In an urgent notice on Monday, health authorities in Liaoning province, in Chinas northeast, ordered inspections of pig farms and market as well as better oversight of live pig transport into and out of the region.

This came after a farm in Liaonings capital, Shenyang, was confirmed to have an outbreak of the African swine fever, according to Chinas Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. Forty-seven of the 383 pigs at the farm died from the virus and another 47 fell ill, the ministry said Friday.

The African swine fever virus, often found in wart hogs, bush pigs and ticks, does not affect humans, but could post a severe threat to the countrys pig-farming industry, which accounts for more than half of global output and provides a majority of the meat that is consumed in China.

The ministry did not specify the exact strain found at the farm in Shenyang, but said that a highly contagious variety could wipe out all the stock at a farm, while a less-contagious strain could lead to a 10% to 30% mortality rate.

More than 900 pigs were culled near Shenyang by 3p.m. Friday.

The Liaoning government has asked local authorities to launch emergency inspections at all pig farms, hog markets, slaughterhouses and treatment sites.

It also ordered the temporary closure of all live pig markets and slaughterhouses in Shenbei district, where the outbreak was discovered, the Liaoning Daily reported.

Contact reporter Li Rongde (rongdeli@caixin.com)
Stability has become the driving concept behind Chinas current economic policy.

On July 31, the Politburo met and called for the country to maintain stable employment, stable finance, stable trade, stable foreign investment, stable investment, and stable expectations, while requiring that the government work to maintain social stability.

The repeated emphasis on stability sends some strong signals. The strongest signal is that the countrys economic policy, contrary to some peoples expectations, will not undergo a dramatic shift toward comprehensive loosening, but will rather display greater policy firmness. This is something that we should be glad for.

At the moment, the Chinese economy is facing relatively large downward pressure. Global economic recovery has reached its peak, and the U.S.-China trade conflict continues to escalate. It is particularly significant that the Chinese government is emphasizing stability at a time like this. It shows that policymakers have a very accurate grasp of the key contradictions faced by the Chinese economy.

Since the start of supply-side reforms, some market participants have from time to time called for or predicted the shift of Chinas macroeconomic policy toward comprehensive loosening. The recent policy of marginal easing has caused these voices to grow louder, but, actually, new trends are showing the farsightedness and flexibility of policy aimed at preventing secondary risks caused by previous deleveraging and stricter supervision efforts.

Out of the six stabilities the Politburo called for, stable investment, is toward the bottom of the list, and refers mainly to making sure necessary projects currently in progress dont get cut off from funding. The reason China cannot engage in an indiscriminate massive stimulus is that this is an irreversible choice, which policymakers clearly recognize. To determine whether a macroeconomic policy counts as a massive stimulus, we must look at the policy openings of particular time periods, look at accumulated scale, whether a project is beneficial to the economy, if the process is regulated, and whether it is in line with the principle of marketization.

Stability doesnt mean stagnation  China cannot respond to ever-changing circumstances by refusing to change. However, as the Politburo meeting pointed out, at the moment, Chinas economic policy is still changing while remaining essentially stable in the face of new problems and challenges, and clear changes in the external environment. In some ways, policymakers are also promoting change even as they emphasize stability.

The Politburo meeting also called for comprehensively promoting supply-side structural reforms, fighting the three main battles of risk prevention, poverty alleviation and pollution prevention, accelerating the construction of a modernized economic system, and promoting high-quality development. Without these changes, it would be very difficult to achieve the six stabilities.

How should China change? The Politburo has suggested a host of measures and has already deeply explored solutions to this problem.

In order to maintain economic stability, China must effectively combine fiscal and monetary policies, and place greater emphasis on structural adjustment, while implementing policies with precision. The latest Politburo meeting called for continued implementation of active fiscal policy while maintaining stable and prudent monetary policy, saying that fiscal policy should play a greater role in expanding domestic demand and structural adjustment, and that China should keep a strong grip on its monetary supply floodgates and maintain a reasonably ample liquidity.

The meeting also called for continued deleveraging at an appropriate magnitude and speed while coordinating the timing of various policies. This dispels fears that China is giving up on deleveraging without finishing the job. It also shows that policymakers are more concerned with how various policies work together as a whole, to prevent damage to the real economy through overly hasty deleveraging causing too much of a contraction in social credit. In the second half of the year, there will be more room to set fiscal policy than for monetary policy. Working on the premise of maintaining stable and neutral monetary policy, Chinas policymakers must apply more active and effective fiscal policy, promote feasible tax cuts, speed up the issuance of special bonds, and appropriately hedge against the impact of credit contraction.

It is important to look beyond short-term goals toward the medium and long term and tackle deep-seated contradictions in the Chinese economy. The Politburo meeting called for the government to see making up for shortcomings as an important task of furthering supply-side structural reforms, and increase the strength of making up for shortcomings in the area of infrastructure while clearing obstacles against capacity reduction, and lowering the cost of doing business. In order to achieve these, China must exert more of an effort in revitalizing rural areas and protecting the environment, and in infrastructure, social welfare and other areas where China lags behind. It must also increase its assistance for and nurturing of industries that represent the future of the economy, actively support the development of small and midsize enterprises, and improve the countrys economic structure.

To achieve a stable economy, China must also undergo genuine reform and opening-up, and remodel its institutions and mechanisms. The Politburo said that the country should advance its reform and opening-up, and continue to research and launch a series of useful and effective major reform measures. It said that there must be major moves toward the practical expansion of opening up, and significant easing of market access restrictions. Higher-level plans for reform and opening-up were decided long ago, but the key is in their promotion and implementation.

In order for the policy directions recommended by the Politburo to be truly implemented, some obstacles must be eliminated. For example, due to high-pressure controls on local government debt risk, some local governments have simply resorted to crude measures like ceasing or slowing down work, resulting in an unusual slowdown in the issuance of local government bonds, and a dramatic drop in the growth of infrastructure investment. Whether or not the central government can mobilize the enthusiasm of local governments depends on whether it can straighten out its fiscal relationship with those governments. This reform has gone on for years without a breakthrough, and local governments have been either continuing old bad habits or submitting to dramatically tightened supervision. They are always facing either a capital construction slowdown or a slide into ballooning debt.

The reform of state-owned enterprises also presents a similar problem. Since the third plenum of the 18th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, the partys Central Committee and the State Council have jointly promulgated guidelines, and the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission has issued over 20 documents on reform, but the country has not made significant headway with reform. There has even been a rise in private enterprises seeking shelter under the red caps of state-owned enterprises in an unconventional form of mixed-ownership reform, thanks to strict environmental inspections and private enterprises defaulting on their debts. Because reform departments documents are frequently weak and avoid addressing systemic and institutional issues, state-owned enterprises also frequently substitute actual reform with development, whether intentionally or not. A few days ago, the State Council issued an opinion document on trial reforms for state-owned capital investment and management companies. We hope that the leadership of a new State Council leading a small group for state-owned enterprise reform will complete the halting, years-long progress of this aspect of reform, achieving breakthroughs.

The various levels of government should put greater effort into structural adjustment and accelerate reform because this will affect whether China can really achieve stability, and will affect the economys long-term stamina. Some people may be waiting to see if the Chinese government will be able to withstand a possible future increase in downward pressure on the countrys economy. This will indeed be a tough test. China wants its economy to operate healthily, achieve successful transformation and upgrading, and smoothly shift toward high-quality development. This undoubtedly requires firm, unwavering and deepened advancement of supply-side reforms. Since massive stimulus is out of the question, the key is whether specific, localized stimuli will be able to reach their targets accurately.

Translated by Teng Jing Xuan (jingxuanteng@caixin.com)
The China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CRIRC) is launching a new campaign against gangster-like activities by illegal loan providers. Photo: Caixin

Chinas top banking regulator is launching a special campaign to sweep gang crime and eliminate evil in the financial sector, targeting illegal lending and debt collecting.

The China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC) issued a notice Tuesday asking local regulators to work with police departments on crackdown on gangster-like activities by illegal loan providers.

The move intensifies a fight against abusive lending practices that often target students and young people. Caixin has learned that some lending platforms hired HIV carriers to threaten debtors. Others demanded nude photos from female borrowers as collateral with the threat of posting them online or sending them to families to ensure repayment.

Regulators have already imposed tough, new regulations on the thriving online peer-to-peer (P2P) and microlending sector, which has raised concerns about financial risks.

The new campaign targets activities including illegal public fundraising for private loans; collecting debt by illegal means such as detention, intimidation, threats and harassment; using funds from financial institutions to make high-rate loans; illegal lending to students; and insurance fraud.

The CBIRC also banned gang-related people from holding stakes in banks and insurers or positions in their managements and boards.

A special working group was established at the CBIRC to lead the sweeping campaign, led by CBIRC Vice Chairman Cao Yu.

Starting in September, large banks and insurance companies and local police each month will be required to report to the working group cases involving gang crime and wrongful activities as well as progress on enforcement campaigns. Major cases should be reported promptly, according to the notice.

In China, many online P2P and microlending platforms target low-income young borrowers, including students. Some such platforms have outsourced debt collection to third parties, which often use harassing and threatening practices or even violence to demand payment.

In one case last year, a 21-year-old college student who was saddled with mounting debt and harassed by collectors jumped off a hotels eighth floor to his death.

Such incidents involving indebted students spurred public outrage and prompted regulators to ban online lending platforms from targeting students last June.
A new app launched by the international maritime charity Sailors Society has benefited over half a million seafarers as they move from port to port around the world, a statement said.



The International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA) Ship Visitor app is used internationally by 10 maritime welfare organisations, who provide chaplaincy to seafarers who are far from home, said a statement from the organisation.



Sailors Societys chief executive officer Stuart Rivers said: Real-time reporting enables port chaplains and ship visitors to deliver more care to the seafarers they meet.



Its encouraging that the Ship Visitor app has reached this milestone and is testament to the collaborative work between the maritime welfare providers who have embraced its potential to improve care provisions, he said.



The 500,000th seafarer visited using the app docked at Invergordon port and was met by Sailors Society port chaplain Drew Anderson, it said.



The app enables chaplains and ship visitors to report their activities in real time and maintains a history of ship visits and support provided to seafarers. Subject to confidentiality and data protection policies, this information can be used to provide ongoing care and assistance as ship and crew continue its voyage, it added.



Rivers continued: From the app we can see the sort of welfare cases our team are supporting on a daily basis, from piracy and abandonment to visiting seafarers in hospital. It gives us a more detailed picture of the needs of seafarers  and allows us to tailor our provision accordingly.



Since its launch in September 2015, there have been many examples of how the Ship Visitor app has improved welfare provision, said a statement.



Rivers said: Marc Schippers, our port chaplain in Antwerp, was visiting a ship and found there was a negative atmosphere on board. Some of the crew told him there had been arguments between themselves and officers.



The ship was about to depart for Southampton and Schippers had to disembark, but before he did, he assured the crew someone would visit them when they reached their next port, he added.



He logged his visit into the app and highlighted the situation to his colleague in Southampton, who was then able to meet the crew upon their arrival, he said,



The advance warning of the situation enabled the chaplain in Southampton to offer appropriate support and services, including transporting the seafarers into the city for a well-earned break from their duties and the intensity of life on board, Rivers concluded.



The network of organisations using the app has grown since it launched in 2015. Furthermore, Sailors Society now has an affiliate programme for maritime welfare providers in North America, which includes: Houston International Seafarers Centre, the Ministry to Seafarers in Montreal, Saugenay International Seafarers Ministry and most recently International Seafarers Center in Brunswick, Georgia.



Jan Kubisa from the Houston International Seafarers Centre said: All the chaplains are using the app on a daily basis and it is difficult to imagine our daily ship visits without it.



As Sailors Society looks to continue expanding its welfare offering throughout North America, we hope that the Ship Visitor app can help to revolutionise the way seafarers visiting ports across the US and Canada are supported, Rivers added.  TradeArabia News Service
news, crime

Police have charged two men with several offences following a June shooting that allegedly involved criminal gang members, and a targeted operation in Canberra's south on Monday night. Officers from Taskforce Nemesis and the Specialist Response Group stopped a 36-year-old Calwell man and a 21-year-old Crace man who were travelling in a vehicle on Monday night, seizing a loaded .357 calibre Ruger revolver. A short time later, police searched a Calwell home and seized a loaded 22/250 Ruger bolt action rifle, a shortened Marlin nine-millimetre semi-automatic rifle, and a magazine containing .45 calibre pistol rounds. Police said they also seized methamphetamine and a substance suspected to be MDMA, or ecstasy. Both men found in the vehicle were arrested and charged with 10 offences, which police said stemmed from the June 28 shooting, which happened in Calwell, and the Monday night searches. In the June 28 incident, police allege that two men suspected to be members of an outlaw bikie gang entered a home and fired several shots, one of which hit a man in the hand, before setting fire to three cars and shooting at a second house. One bullet ripped through walls and missed a sleeping neighbour by about a metre, Detective Superintendent Scott Moller said the day after the incident. The men arrested on Monday night face charges including two counts of unlawful possession of prohibited firearms, two counts of unauthorised possession of a firearm, three counts of failing to correctly store a firearm, two counts of possessing ammunition and one count of possessing a prohibited weapon. They are due to appear in the ACT Magistrates Court on Tuesday, where police will oppose bail. The weapons seized by police are three fewer weapons that can be used to commit violent offences, Detective Station Sergeant Harry Hains said. This operation is the latest in a series conducted by Taskforce Nemesis with the aim of disrupting criminal gang activity. If you have any information regarding illegal firearms, police want to hear from you.

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Many parts of Earth could become uninhabitable for humans, with the planet at risk of entering an irreversible "hothouse" climate. That's the alarming warning from an international team of scientists, including Australian National University professor Will Steffen, in a study published on Tuesday. As large parts of eastern Australia battle drought and Europe is gripped by a heatwave, Professor Steffen said current efforts to combat global warming would not be enough to meet the emission-reduction targets set by governments in the Paris Agreement, which may be insufficient to prevent the dangerous scenario anyway. The study warns that Earth is already more than halfway towards the point of no return. Global average temperatures are just over one degree above pre-industrial temperatures, but rising by 0.17 degrees every 10 years. Professor Steffen said if temperatures rose to two degrees above pre-industrial levels, a level within Paris Agreement targets, it could trigger natural processes that would cause further warming of the Earth even if all human emissions ceased. If that happened, global average temperatures may reach up to five degrees above pre-industrial levels - the hottest temperatures experienced in more than 1.2 million years. Sea levels could also rise between 10 and 60 metres, threatening coastal areas. "Many parts of the planet could become uninhabitable for humans," Professor Steffen said. "... Sitting on our hands means we are at risk of driving the Earth - and human wellbeing - beyond an irreversible point of no return." The study, titled Trajectories of the Earth System in the Anthropocene, says temperatures could hit the level needed to send the planet down the "Hothouse Earth" path in just a few decades. "The impacts of a Hothouse Earth pathway on human societies would likely be massive, sometimes abrupt, and undoubtedly disruptive," says the study, which is published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. Professor Steffen said scientists considered 10 natural feedback processes as part of the study, some of which were "tipping elements" that could lead to abrupt changes if a critical threshold was crossed. Those elements included the reduction of Antarctic sea ice and polar sheets, the release of methane trapped on the ocean floor and Amazon rainforest dieback. The real concern is these tipping elements can act like a row of dominoes," Professor Steffen said. "Once one is pushed over, it pushes Earth towards another. "It may be very difficult or impossible to stop the whole row of dominoes from tumbling over." The impacts on arguably Australia's most notable natural attraction, the Great Barrier Reef, would be severe. "A Hothouse Earth trajectory would almost certainly flood deltaic environments, increase the risk of damage from coastal storms, and eliminate coral reefs ... by the end of this century or earlier," the study says.

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ACT Speaker Joy Burch has officially farewelled outgoing Auditor-General Dr Maxine Cooper as she finishes her seven-year term in the job this week. Ms Burch and other territory politicians were among those at the Legislative Assembly for a function on Monday to farewell Dr Cooper, who has also worked in other key territory government positions during her public service career. Dr Cooper has led the audit office through a raft of detailed audits in recent years, ranging from investigations into the government's asbestos taskforce's work, its urban renewal program, and audits into a series of controversial government land deals in recent years. Under her leadership, the audit office has regularly produced nine or 10 detailed performance audits a year, in addition to the regular financial auditing functions the office provides the government. Other issues Dr Cooper has examined in recent years include: the rehabilitation of male detainees at the Alexander Maconochie Centre, the maintenance of public housing, data integrity in ACT Health and the appointment of former Canberra Liberals leader Brendan Smyth as the territory's only Commissioner for International Engagement. Before her appointment as Auditor-General, Dr Cooper was the territory's Commissioner for Sustainability and the Environment and head of the ACT water security taskforce, as well as several other territory public service executive roles and working in the private sector. Speaker of the ACT Legislative Assembly Joy Burch MLA farewelled on Monday the ACT Auditor-General, Dr Maxine Cooper. The Speaker and Dr Cooper were joined by senior executives of the ACT Public Service, the staff of the ACT Audit Office and Dr Coopers close family and friends. Ms Burch said Dr Cooper had made a significant contribution to the administration and public accountability of the territory, and she wished her the very best in her future endeavours. Dr Cooper's last day in the audit office is Tuesday this week, after which the office's chief finance officer Ajay Sharma will act in the role for up to six months while the Speaker recruits for a new Auditor-General. Clarification: This article previously stated the government would run the recruitment. The recruitment is run by the Speaker, as the Auditor-General is an office of the Assembly.

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The owners of a Curtin retail block are asking the government to reconsider approval for a scale-back development of the site after a failed bid 18 months ago. The controversial proposal was rejected by planning authorities in February last year and while planning legislation requires reconsideration applications to be lodged within 20 days of rejection, extensions can be granted. The development was originally canned because the proposed six storey building height would overshadow the square. Developers have since scaled back the building to five storeys. The Curtin Residents Association said the developers had now asked for reconsideration despite the government still finalising a Curtin masterplan, which would dictate the scale and type of construction permitted. Association president Chris Johnson said residents were still concerned about the size and design of the buildings proposed in the development. He said they would block sunlight across the shops and create traffic problems as well as encroach on public space. In April, a released draft of the masterplan was heralded as a win as it significantly scaled back the height of buildings allowed. Under the draft, building heights will be restricted to one storey around the shops' central courtyard. A two storey limit would apply around the core retail area with an allowance for building heights of 18 metres or five storeys if planning principles - such as a character - are met. Mr Johnson said development applications shouldn't be "flung into the air" while the masterplan was being finalised. "It would be premature for anyone to evaluate a new proposal in this place without knowing what that's going to be," Mr Johnson said. The original proposal was rejected due to the "size, character and scale" of the six storey building. As a result, the Haridemos family closed shops after leases expired in late 2017 and fenced off the building in January. The application for reconsideration, which has revised major elements of the development, has scaled back the building height to five storeys in line with the draft masterplan. But Greens Assembly member Caroline Le Couteur said she was concerned the reconsideration process was being used for a development that was so controversial. "The reconsideration process has fewer safeguards and rules," Ms Le Couteur said. "The planning directorate should have required a new development application so that all of the normal rules applied." Planning legislation doesn't require developers to provide the same community consultation period after they've lodged an application for reconsideration. ACT chief planner Ben Ponton rejected Ms Le Couteur's assertions there would be reduced safeguards. He said development heights would be considered under the draft plan on the basis they met local character criteria. "I would just like to make the observation that I understand the proponent did reach out to the Curtin Residents Association prior to lodging the reconsideration application as part of their commitment to community engagement," Mr Ponton said. Mr Ponton said the government had placed a number of signs on site notifying people of the reconsideration application and contacted nearby businesses. Tania Parkes, a spokeswoman for the developers, said the design in the reconsideration application was considerably different to the axed proposal and was fully compliant with the draft master plan. Ms Parkes said developers had invited Curtin residents to a briefing two times before lodging the reconsideration application. Planning legislation normally requires anyone who made a submission - or representation - on the proposal to be contacted and allowed to make comment within two weeks of the application being lodged. Mr Ponton said on Monday the government had extended this to three weeks but on Tuesday he said it had now been extended to six weeks, allowing residents to make comment by August 17. The application was lodged on June 19, but planning authorities didn't notify the public of lodgement until the end of the recent school holiday.
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The "independent review of the Australian Public Service" (what will in time presumably become known as the "Thodey review" in honour of its chairman, David Thodey) moves along with what seems from the outside to be doses of good news each infused with bits of not so good news. Let's go through a few of those doses. Dose 1: The good news here is that, on July 11, Thodey announced that the deadline for submissions to the review would be extended from 11.59pm on July 13 to midnight on July 31. For some that may be welcome but for those who initially gave up on ever making the July 13 deadline it is of no use at all, as it effectively gives them a little more than two weeks to get their acts together. It's hard to imagine why the deadline should not be extended to the end of September so as to give those keen to make fully considered submissions a fair chance. A sensible deadline would be when the panel is getting close to finalising its views; surely it will not have reached that point by the end of September when extra contributions should still be digestable. Dose 2: The good news is that, at the time of writing, the review has posted 242 submissions on its website. On the face of it, that's not a bad response. The not-so-good news, based on an inspection of the first 217 submissions on the site, is that: While identification is not easy, it would seem that none (or at least very few) of the 160 community groups, peak bodies or business leaders have thus far responded to Thodey's request to have a say. While the 217 submissions examined contain some useful suggestions, they are, overall, disappointingly slight, if with a small number of standouts. This may reflect the needlessly short time allowed for lodgment and the review's vague terms of reference, which give little specific guidance around which to frame submissions. The lack of interest from the academic community is startling. Most disappointingly, not a single Commonwealth agency, not even a central agency, has, at the time of writing, had a submission published on the review's website. (By way of a benchmark, the Coombs Royal Commission on Australian Government Administration received submissions from 55 Commonwealth agencies. The former Public Service Board's submissions ran to more than 1000 pages, which had a major influence on the commission's report.) It may be that Thodey, other panel members and their assistants in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet are talking privately to agency heads and others. That's all well and good but it's insufficient. Agencies should make their views public so they can be tested and promote discussion. The Minister for the Public Service, Kelly O'Dwyer, has said she hopes the submissions lodged thus far "encourage others to add their insights and experiences". That's likely but no such encouragement is being provided by Commonwealth agencies  those best placed to do so. If it's good enough for Thodey to encourage "all Australians" to make their views openly known, it's hard to see why agency heads should not see themselves as included in that invitation. Their absolute reticence thus far is not a great omen about the extent to which the management of Commonwealth agencies is interested in the review. Dose 3: More good news is that a reference group has been established to help the Thodey panel. The group includes four people who are or have been the heads of public services in other countries  Britain, Canada, New Zealand and Singapore. They should be very useful. But four from overseas? Might that be over-egging it? And why not someone with like qualifications from Australia? There's no shortage of them. At least one would have found an invitation irresistible. There are four former politicians on the group, one from New Zealand and three from Australia. However, as worthy as these may be, none seems to have had a conspicuous interest or record in public service matters. Not many politicians take an interest in public service improvement although there are at least four former Australian federal ministers who have, three being former ministers for the public service, who are better qualified than the ones who've been selected  maybe they knocked back offers to serve. The other member of the group is a former official of the Treasury who left that organisation almost 30 years ago to become a senior banker. He has lived in London for the last 10 years, according to reliable sources. Notwithstanding their combined abilities, the review panel and the reference group do not reflect a convincing balance of background and experience. While there is a former official with recent APS experience, there are three bankers, two advisers to banks and another two with substantial banking experience. Eight of the 15 panel and group members are economists, broadly speaking. On the other hand, for all the talk about a "citizen-centred APS culture" (in the words of PM&C; head Martin Parkinson), the review panel and reference group do not include a soul to represent those interests. If balance in the backgrounds of people conducting public service reviews is important, the current review doesn't have it. Dose 4: When recently asked if he felt "sufficiently independent", Thodey said: "I have no doubt in my mind about our independence." That's good news and there are no reasons to doubt the independence of mind of Thodey and his colleagues. However, the leg work for the review is being done by PM&C;, whose role and record should be a prime focus of inquiry. Thodey might recall that, in the course of the banking royal commission, the independence of a consultant's report commissioned by AMP was undermined when it came to light that AMP officers had sought some changes to it. The APS review panel's report is likely in its entirety to be drafted by PM&C.; There's nothing wrong with that but the review cannot therefore reasonably be touted as being independent. The silence with which public service agencies have thus far treated the review has been ever so slightly broken by a few of Parkinson's recent comments. In response to a question on outsourcing at a function in early July, he said several agencies "abrogated their core responsibilities and have become over-reliant on consultants. By all means, use consultants when we need surge capacity. Use consultants when it's something we might not do very often ... and there's someone outside who has got expertise. "But if you get to the space where you basically hand over thinking about policy development, policy prioritisation, to consultants, then you've actually given away your core business. And then you should ask yourself 'what are you doing here?' " Well said, Doc  elegantly put and absolutely right. It's to be hoped the review panel absorbed your comments, which are consistent with those in a good many of the submissions. Indeed, the review would do a great service if it were to produce criteria to help ministers and agencies make more rational decisions about what functions could be sold or outsourced. This grey and confused area is much in need of enlightenment. Also at the July function (of course it was about innovation), Parkinson had a crack at "former public servants" who have written "long and tedious articles" critical of some aspects of the review. These scribblers, Parkinson says, should "get over themselves". Gosh, I thought, I could be one of those in his sights; I began to run for cover. I stopped, however, when I saw that the secretary's objections were to those who wanted a "revisit of Coombs" (the 1975 Coombs royal commission), reckoned its terms of reference were "too broad" and believed it to be about the past. Phew, I was in the clear. I've never said any of these things. Indeed, I've said the current review's terms of reference are too narrow as they only cover Public Service Act agencies and are, at the same time, wide and vague. While the lessons of the past should be learned from, I'm sure that even the most powerful review could never amend the past. While I've criticised the Thodey review's lack of independence, I've not suggested a "revisit" of the Coombs royal commission; indeed, I don't think, for what it's worth, a royal commission would be at all sensible. Parkinson gave further insights into his views about the public service in the Financial Review's supplement BOSS, a publication dedicated to the glorification of bosses. Parkinson says he wants to get rid of "the mandarin model", where, so says a breathless reporter, "a departmental secretary's word is law". Parkinson reckons he doesn't want deference but contributions. "I try to keep an open mind and test ideas ... People have to understand when a secretary says something it is not an edict. We are exploring an idea." It's reported he wants "the most junior person in the room ... to speak up. Not just to talk but to push back." Well, that's all jolly good stuff, although with a qualification. There never has been any such operating phenomenon as a "mandarin model". Departmental secretaries in the past have been as chalk and cheese and everything in between, and they cannot be squeezed into some all-defining model. The likes of Garran, Wilson, Wheeler, Tange, Hewitt, Westerman, Rattigan, Bunting and others worked in very different ways. Some may have expected their words to be accepted as law; others certainly didn't. When at the Public Service Board, Sir Frederick Wheeler institutionalised competing sources of advice and spent a huge amount of time sitting around with junior officers encouraging them to argue and "push back", while during long evenings all present were expected, in the novelist Gerald Murnane's words, to drink continuously. One of Parkinson's predecessors, Sir Geoffrey Yeend, was extremely adept at encouraging unorthodox views and a competition of ideas among his staff, and he recruited people accordingly. The point is, it is historically false to suggest that all or even most senior public servants in days of yore expected their word to be accepted as law and it is terribly unfair to imply they all did. As in the past, today's secretaries also appear to have different ways of operating. What a surprise. For example, Parkinson's professed approach would seem to be light years away from that of Mike Pezzullo at the Department of Home Affairs, if the latter's patronising, hectoring and pathetic long and tedious recent letter to his senior staff is anything to go by. Anyone wanting to give their staff the shits could do a lot worse than mimic the Pezzullo example. [Editor's note: you can read Pezzullo's masterpiece in full here.] Of course "push-back" must have its limits, even for Parkinson. So any former public servants, or anyone else presumably, thinking about long and tedious criticisms of the public service review, of which Parkinson was the apparent progenitor, should forget about it and "get over themselves". Paddy Gourley is a former senior public servant. pdg@home.netspeed.com.au

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The recent appointments of Phil Gaetjens to succeed John Fraser as Treasury secretary and Peter Woolcott to replace John Lloyd as public service commissioner mark the end of the Abbott era in the upper echelons of the Australian Public Service. Abbott, in appointing Fraser and Lloyd, as well as Michael Thawley at the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, made a point of choosing people with known pro-Coalition or pro-business sympathies to lead central agencies. Thawley left PM&C; soon after Malcolm Turnbull took over the prime ministership, while Lloyd and Fraser only recently threw in the towel. Turnbull's earlier replacement of Thawley with Martin Parkinson, a respected career public servant who had fallen foul of Coalition conservatives because of his role in managing climate change policy, appeared to signal a return to less partisan appointments, a pattern followed in filling subsequent, less high-profile vacancies. Taken together, the two latest key appointments continue this moderating trend but not without some concessions to conservative sensibilities. In particular, Gaetjens is a subject of partisan controversy and his appointment is a partial victory for conservatives. Woolcott, on the other hand, represents a welcome reversion to apolitical appointments. Though Gaetjens and Woolcott currently serve as ministerial chiefs of staff (for the Treasurer and Prime Minister respectively), Woolcott only recently took up this role after a career as an apolitical diplomat, and in accordance with Turnbull's well-known penchant for using career public servants as advisers. Gaetjens, on the other hand, spent much of his career as a Coalition adviser, first for Peter Costello and latterly for Scott Morrison. He could easily be seen as continuing the conservative policy of politicised appointments. Certainly, this was the view taken by the government's opponents, for whom the issue of an apolitical APS has become a key battlefield in the partisan ideological contest. "The Liberals are addicted to stacking positions in government with their mates," Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said. Neither he nor the shadow treasurer, Chris Bowen, would commit to continuing Gaetjens if the Labor Party won the next election. Bowen also objected to two other senior appointments of former Liberal staffers, announced soon after: Michael Brennan, to head the Productivity Commission, and Simon Atkinson, to head Treasury's fiscal group (a deputy secretary-level role). Bowen promised that Labor would end Treasury's politicisation and restore it to "its rightful place as the premier central policy agency". Morrison, who must have played a central role in the appointment of his former chief of staff to head his department, relished the chance of some partisan argy-bargy and another opportunity to attack Shorten's "smallness of character". Gaetjens, he said, had more budget and policy experience than the whole of Labor's front bench, an irrelevant non-sequitur worthy of parliamentary question time. The partisan commentariat also happily joined in. Progressives deplored the political nature of the appointments and lamented Treasury's decline as a source of objective, non-political advice. As so often in the culture wars, the moralistic outrage of the progressives merely reinforced the convictions of the right. Conservatives argued that Gaetjens' time as a Liberal staffer was irrelevant and that his economic policy and technical skills were first-class. Gaetjens himself entered the debate, fronting up to a sympathetic interview in the Financial Review, in which he claimed to be "more at the policy end of the spectrum than the political end". Those Gaetjens supporters who argue that his political history and connections were irrelevant to his appointment were being disingenuous. Many conservatives in the Coalition  including, one suspects, the Treasurer himself  would have welcomed his partisan pedigree. For the conservatives, who nurture deep suspicions of progressive bias in the career bureaucracy, having a background in either the party or among one of the party's natural constituencies, is a key qualification. No matter how smart and professional Gaetjens may be, he would not have satisfied the party hardliners otherwise. By the same token, if the government had wished to make a clearly non-political appointment to the Treasury, it would have chosen someone with a more balanced CV. In the event, Gaetjens may well disappoint his partisan backers and also prove his critics wrong, by acting much like any other experienced career public servant. He will have every incentive to do so, not only to gain the respect of his departmental colleagues and the wider community of professional economists, but also with an eye to possibly retaining his position if Labor wins the next election. He will know that Labor, in contrast to the Coalition, is committed to retaining incumbent secretaries on regaining office, a policy introduced by Kevin Rudd in 2007 and applied, for example, to Industry Department secretary Mark Paterson, a John Howard appointee who had previously headed the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. In spite of Paterson's obviously pro-business background, he went on to serve Labor ministers effectively for another four years. (In replacing him, however, Labor abandoned the high moral ground, appointing a high-profile Labor mate, Don Russell, Paul Keating's former chief of staff.) Labor doubled down on continuing the tenure of incumbents in its opposition to Abbott's sackings in 2013, since when the issue has firmed up as part of the wider progressive support for an apolitical public service. Unsurprisingly, Labor frontbenchers have refused to guarantee retaining Gaetjens' services if they win office. They could hardly offer him immediate endorsement while savaging his appointment. But if he keeps his head down and avoids partisan controversy, Labor would find it politically difficult to dismiss him, a point that seems to have eluded most commentators but will not have escaped Gaetjens himself. As for Treasury's alleged politicisation, the department certainly no longer enjoys the preeminent position within the bureaucracy it once held. Treasury has always played a double role: as a standard department loyally serving the minister and government of the day, and as an independent source of objective economic data and analysis. In recent years, the independent research function has diminished in importance and the department has become more exclusively an instrument of government policy. A number of structural factors have been involved in this development. One is the steady reduction in staffing, imposed by both Labor and Coalition governments. Another is the growing accessibility of senior public servants, which brings them more into the public eye and encourages them to act more as spokespeople for government policy. A third factor is the greater openness of government through freedom of information law, which discourages department researchers from undertaking analysis that is likely to embarrass the government. It is over 10 years since then Treasury secretary Ken Henry warned against extending FOI's purview, saying it would discourage critical research. He was not in the business, he said, of making bullets for the opposition to fire at the government. None of these trends had anything to do with the political affiliations of individual secretaries. Critics of Gaetjens' appointment who link it to Treasury's changing role and nostalgia for a bygone era are drawing a long bow indeed. Similarly, Labor calls to restore the Treasury to its former preeminent role are wishful thinking. It is more sensible to recognise that the electronic media age has made all senior public servants, to some extent, more politicised in the sense that they have become more concerned with both framing and delivering the government's partisan message. In private, ministers still need their officials to give them frank advice. But in public debate, independence and objectivity are better sought from government agencies that are legally at arm's length from ministers. The Bureau of Statistics is one such agency, as are the Productivity Commission and the Parliamentary Budget Office. These are the agencies whose resources and jurisdiction should be given priority, ahead of Treasury's. Though the significance of Gaetjens' appointment should not be overstated, it still reflected a conservative preference for choosing senior secretaries with pro-Coalition credentials. Interest then naturally turned on the government's choice of a successor to Lloyd as public service commissioner. Would it be another conservative warrior? Or someone with impeccably non-partisan credentials? Labor ramped up its campaign, for instance, with an op-ed from senator Jenny McAllister attacking Lloyd and advocating a politically independent appointment. There was a risk that the issue had become so polarised between the partisan-supporting right and the neutral-supporting left that the government would feel obliged to choose one of its own. To opt for an impartial commissioner could have been seen as caving in to Labor. Indeed, Labor seemed to be goading the government into making a partisan choice as a means of keeping the issue alive. Fortunately, Turnbull ignored such provocation and did the right thing by the Public Service Commission. As an endorsement, the Community and Public Sector Union, Lloyd's most consistent opponent, welcomed the appointment of Woolcott, a long-time federal public servant. Some of the government's more one-eyed critics refused to let the controversy die and persisted in labelling Woolcott a government stooge. But most reasonable observers will be thankful that the Lloyd chapter is closed, with the promise of a less partisan future for the Public Service Commission and for the public service in general. Richard Mulgan is an emeritus professor at the ANU's Crawford school of public policy. richard.mulgan@anu.edu.au

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The banking royal commission has important lessons for all regulators, not only those concerned with banking and finance. As we now know from the commission's work, examples of bad practice are rife among financial institutions. They include overcharging or outright defrauding of customers, misleading advice, exploiting vulnerable Australians and other misdeeds. Even if financial institutions (mostly) do look after their customers, the commission is inquiring into misconduct  and finding plenty. The question for regulators is how this blatant and harmful misconduct can happen, and why it appears so widespread. The commission  full title, the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry  has, during its investigations, considered regulators including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, which regulates corporations and the financial system (including banks), and the Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority, which supervises financial institutions to ensure they can meet commitments (for example, banks are able to give account holders their money on request, insurance companies have enough funds to pay valid insurance claims). They, together with the Reserve Bank and the Treasury, come together in a Council of Financial Regulators. The council says it has two roles: "to contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of financial regulation" and "promote stability of the Australian financial system". However, the entries on its website suggest threats to financial stability predominate, with regulation effectiveness coming a distant second. The council's limited role in promoting good regulation was highlighted by a draft Productivity Commission report earlier this year, which found "competition in Australia's financial system is without a champion among the existing regulators". "In a system where all are somewhat responsible, it is inevitable that (at important times) none are". The Productivity Commission's final report on financial system competition was released last Friday. Although the language moderated, the fundamental messages remain. The report says "while there is much handwringing about competition, there has been little shift in the regulatory culture. The emphasis on stability  best represented by the repeated use of the phrase 'unquestionably strong'  persists ... there is no counterweight that can advance the benefits of competition and possibly influence regulators before they intervene in the financial system. Discovery of alternatives relies entirely on inclub thinking ..." Treasurer Scott Morrison released the report at an address to the Australian British Chamber of Commerce. He said "we need better disclosure. Banking and financial regulation has had a dulling effect on customers ... inertia, similar to what we have seen with households and their electricity and gas providers and super funds, is placing the clamps on genuine competition in the financial sector. And the big players know it." In short, regulators who administer highly complex business rules and processes benefit big players (who can afford big legal fees) while ordinary Australians suffer. We saw that with regulation of energy markets (now being reformed) and currently with finance. There should be an onus on regulators to aid transparency and competition as part of regulatory practice. Limited competition, while it might make large companies more stable, harms customers. While competition does not guarantee good behaviour, it makes misconduct much less likely; institutions have more incentive to treat customers well, and ethically, so as not to lose them to competitors. Insufficient competition is, however, only part of banking and finance industry misbehaviour. The evidence presented to the royal commission suggests something more fundamental is at play. If all we were seeing were financial regulators, perhaps fearful of another global financial crisis, propping up large banks and insurance companies at the expense of customers, then  sad though this would be  it would have few lessons for other regulators. The more important lessons arise from the evidence that has emerged about how the regulators interact with the financial institutions they should be regulating. Royal Commissioner Kenneth Hayne has queried why ASIC, especially, appears to take a soft line with banks rather than cracking down on misbehaviour. Similarly, the senior counsel assisting the commission, Rowena Orr, QC, has asked searching questions about what are known as "enforceable undertakings" reached between ASIC and the limited number of financial institutions ASIC has caught doing the wrong thing. Under questioning, it has emerged these agreements are almost always negotiated down from the desired penalty, and have little practical effect. Moreover, by contrast with the open processes involved in a court action, enforceable undertakings are negotiated behind closed doors, in secret. An enduring lesson in governance is that secrecy encourages misconduct, while transparency encourages ethical behaviour. Policymakers who design regulatory institutions have for decades been aware of the problem of regulators being "captured" by the industries they regulate. Indeed, economist George Stigler won a Nobel prize for his work on the concept in the 1970s. Norman Abjorensen provided an excellent outline of the theory of regulatory capture and its application to Australian banking in June's Informant. Most Australian regulators are well aware of the risk of capture and try to avoid it. Direct and overt capture  for example, companies providing payments to regulators in exchange for favourable decisions  is thus rare. Unfortunately, a much more common form of "soft" capture arises as a result of well-intentioned but fatally flawed appointments by successive governments of regulators who "understand" their regulated industries. Often, this is at the urging of industry lobbyists, who tell ministers it is essential for regulators to have a thorough understanding of the industry concerned  and the only way someone can have such an understanding is to have previously worked in that industry. This is pure self-interest. Even if, as Abjorensen suggests, "detailed knowledge of an industry is essential for a regulator", that knowledge can come from careful study, hiring good advisers, consultations or investigations; working inside an industry is not the sole or even necessarily the best way to understand it. Insiders often overlook the worst features of their own industry, seeing them simply as "the way things are done round here". Where an industry has systemic problems rooted deep in industry culture, it is even more important that regulators come from outside. Insiders are likely to be blind to the problems because they have been part of the culture and picked up its underlying values and assumptions. The evidence presented to date to the royal commission clearly points to cultural failings in banks and other financial institutions. Anyone who has dealt with high-end lawyers and financiers will have observed a peculiar view among many  not all  that instead of "might makes right" it's "money makes right". Great wealth is seen as a sign of great morality. For many people in financial institutions, an unspoken but shared cultural assumption is that amassing wealth is inherently virtuous. Those of this view enlist the word "good" to unfamiliar uses: someone is described as a "good" banker because they make tonnes of money. That's profitable and successful, not good. Sometimes the banker concerned is a good person, sometimes not. There is no reason to suppose successful bankers are more moral than others. Indeed, the history of corporate failings  the rise and fall of Enron in the United States or the Volkswagen emissions-tampering scandal come to mind  suggests misconduct can be highly profitable, at least while it remains undiscovered. If banking and finance regulators are drawn from a pool of people inside that industry, they will be more likely  not inevitably, but more likely  to ignore cultural problems. Despite this, successive governments have for the most part appointed lawyers and bankers to be our financial regulators  a sure prescription for application of the law but far more dubious for regulatory oversight of culture and attitudes. We need expertise in financial regulation, but we also need the balance that would come from appointing at least some regulators who are neither lawyers nor bankers. The lesson for regulatory design more broadly is to appoint a broad spread of people to regulatory bodies rather than prioritise industry knowledge. That can come in time. More important is to have independent regulators without cultural preconceptions. One reason why the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is a more effective regulator is its broad scope: members cannot be single-industry experts. It thus avoids the trap of soft capture through shared culture. Independent thinking is more desirable than specialist knowledge: an important lesson for regulatory design. Stephen Bartos is an economist and a former Finance Department deputy secretary.
Alwaleed Philanthropies, chaired by Saudi billionaire Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz AlSaud, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Aljazirah Vehicles Agencies, the dealer of Ford and Lincoln cars in Saudi Arabia, to distribute 7,000 cars to various beneficiaries.



The programme offers 1,000 cars a year for seven years.



This partnership initiative will add to the Housing and Car Grants project that began in 2015 and will extend to 10 years, under which Alwaleed Philanthropies has committed to provide 10,000 housing units and 10,000 cars throughout the kingdom, said a statement from the organisation.



Moreover, it was agreed to provide 200 additional cars with special specifications and equipment suitable to transport the people in need, which are with disabilities, it said.



In line with Prince Alwaleed s belief in Saudi Arabias vision 2030, the initiative has emerged to empower women and youth through securing jobs that will have a great impact on the local economy, it added.



Human resource development is one of the most important objectives of Vision 2030, therefore, an initiative has been agreed to train 100 young men and women in cars and mechanical work. In addition, financing and supporting small car projects for distinguished young people.



The agreement was signed in the presence of Princess Lamia AlSaud, Alwaleed Philanthropies secretary general; Amal Al Kathiri, executive director of the National Initiatives Department, along with Aljazirah Vehicles Agencies representatives - Mohammed Al Kradees, deputy CEO; and Abdullah Alobthani, director of the government sales department in the kingdom.



For over four decades, Alwaleed Philanthropies has supported and spent more than $4 billion on social welfare, and initiated more than 1000 projects in over 164 countries, managed by 10 Saudi females members, reaching more than 533 million beneficiaries around the world, regardless of gender, race, or religion.



Alwaleed Philanthropies collaborates with a range of philanthropic, governmental, and educational organisations to combat poverty, empower women and youth, develop communities, provide disaster relief and create cultural understanding through education. It seeks to build bridges for a more compassionate, tolerant, and accepting world.  TradeArabia News Service
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The Informant has probably published too many articles on soon-to-be-former Public Service Commissioner John Lloyd; this latest issue is no exception. However, it took me until late on Monday  two days before he retires  to find matters on which Lloyd and I agree so heartily we're practically soulmates. In his valedictory speech, Lloyd reflected on his long Commonwealth career "in the department responsible for workplace relations identified under various titles, like Labour and National Service, Labour and Immigration, Labour, Industrial Relations, Employment and Workplace Relations, Fair Work something or other, and landing today as Jobs and Small Business. An odd name; I despise the tinkering with departmental names." Indeed, Tony Abbott's best decision as prime minister was to establish departments with simple names and clear responsibilities (and Malcolm Turnbull's worst was to start undoing this). Similarly, Lloyd dismissed the endless changes to machinery of government that "come and go as fashion and thinking dictate". "We have an enormous capacity to complicate things, sometimes it seems to a power of 10." His speech, delivered to the Institute of Public Adminstration Australia, is online and worth reading in full, containing these nuggets and, well, more of the Lloyd you know. As I mentioned here last month, I asked ASIO recently what I thought was a simple question: is it allowed to monitor federal parliamentarians covertly? I doubted it was legally possible, I explained  a likely "offence against the House"  because the privilege of Parliament protects the work of parliamentarians from executive meddling. Unfortunately, the spy agency's response was encrypted with heavy layers of meaninglessness, and ultimately indecipherable. Nonetheless, others stepped in to translate. Former Border Force commissioner and ACT police chief Roman Quaedvlieg, now free of the bureaucracy, is also free of bureaucratese: "It's not breaching privilege or law if the actions of the subject are unlawful and against national interest," he said. The Australian Defence Association's Neil James agreed, noting privilege hasn't prevented NSW's ICAC from investigating dodgy politicians. "If an MP is reasonably suspected of unlawful acts, they are no different to any other citizen in terms of law-enforcement surveillance." However, legal writer Stephen Murray points out that Parliament's privileges committee  which is, ultimately, the body that would decide on this matter  may disagree with them. Its report Parliamentary privilege and the use of intrusive powers found: "The lawful use of covert intrusive powers can have a chilling effect on the work of the Parliament. Any suggestion that privilege diminishes because a covert intrusive power is used to access material is inconsistent with the view that privilege should operate to protect against the chilling effects that the executive's exercise of its powers can have on the Parliament." Esoteric? Yes. But answering this question is also crucial for our democracy; it cuts to the heart of the separation of powers. Especially in the context, raised here last month, of the Howard government allegedly eavesdropping on opposition MPs' conversations about Alexander Downer's efforts to screw East Timor. If you know more, drop me a line.

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The transformation to a green economy needs fundamental cooperation of both the private and public-sector leaderships, and this responsibility will be highlighted at the upcoming World Green Economy Summit (WGES 2018) in Dubai.



The event will take place on October 24 and 25 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.



WGES will encourage political and corporate leaders to exchange views on how to best use their authority to engage society in the green economy, by introducing progressive policies and incentives, changing individual behaviour and consumption patterns, or raising environmental awareness, said a statement from the organisers.



More than 8,000 participating companies and 4,000 non-business participants have already embraced the commitments of the UN Global Compact as they committed voluntarily to manage their operations in a responsible manner and to integrate sustainability in their strategies, it said.



Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, vice chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and chairman of WGES, said: The UAE has pioneered in setting an ideal model for public-private partnerships through the development of legislations, which enhanced investment opportunities in infrastructure projects and improved quality of services.



This model has contributed in increasing the collaboration between government and private sectors. In addition, Dubai has developed a strong regulatory framework via Regulatory & Supervisory Bureau (RSB) for Electricity & Water to encourage private investment through Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, he said.



Thanks to this model, Dubai has achieved the lowest prices for electricity generation through solar energy in the world, he added.



Al Tayer continued: We acknowledge the role of the private and public-sector in sustainable development. And as we move closer to a resource-efficient economy, it is important that leaderships from both the sectors contribute positively to boost investments in research and development and innovation and technology.



The event aims to set goals for private-public sector leaderships that will allow them to undertake sustainable initiatives in pursuit of a green economy, he added.



Featuring discussions on capacity building, technology transfer and green investments, WGES will facilitate dialogue between governments and businesses to take forward the sustainability agenda.



Al Tayer said: Green growth is the best approach for sustainable development. It is the key that can unlock the well-being for the current and future generations. As such, fostering engagement between government and business leaders will accelerate the green growth.



The summit aims to tap this collaboration to facilitate exchange of information and best practices, as well as drive steadfast commitment of the leaders to positively influence the environment and society, he added.



The summit is organised by Dewa and the World Green Economy Organisation (WGEO) in collaboration with international partners under the theme Driving Innovation, Leading Change, said a statement.



WGES 2018 will focus on three main pillars, green capital, digital transformation, and leadership and social engagement. The event will gather financial executives, investment professionals, and thought leaders to discuss ways to increase green capital flows into regional and global environment-friendly projects and how to de-risk those investments, it stated.  TradeArabia News Service
Bihar Board has released the class 10 compartment results. The board results have been declared on the official website - biharboardonline.bihar.gov.in. Candidates who have appeared for the exam can check their results now. The board had declared the class 10 results on June 26 for the annual examinations held in March. Last week, the BSEB has released the class 12 compartment results for more than 1.5 lakh students.

The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) has released the class 12 compartment exam results. A candidate who has appeared for the exam can check their results on the official website of the board. Over 1.55 lakh candidates have appeared for the exam which was conducted between July 13 and 20.

BSEB has also released the answer key for the objective questions of the intermediate compartmental examination 2018. Candidates have to obtain at least 30 per cent marks in the theory paper and 40 per cent marks in the practical paper to pass the intermediate examination.

How To Check The BSEB Class 12 Compartment Results

Visit the official website of Bihar Board (biharboard.ac.in).

Click on Bihar Board Intermediate Examination Result 2018.

Choose your stream.

Enter all the mandatory fields.

Click the submit to view the results.

Take a printout of the results for future use.

Click here to check your results

Students who obtained 300 marks will be under the first division. However, candidates have to secure at least 225 marks to achieve a place under the second division. BSEB has declared the class 12 examination results on June 6. Over 12 lakh candidates have appeared for the examination out of which only 6 lakh students have cleared the exam.

What To Do After Class 12? Top 10 Government Jobs One Can Take Up
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), which conducts All India Entrance Examination for Admission (AIEEA) for undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes in agriculture and allied sciences, is all set to release the admit cards for the re-exam. ICAR had cancelled the exam earlier due to administrative reasons.

According to ICAR's official website, the re-exam date for the AIEEA postgraduate and undergraduate programmes will be on August 18 and 19, respectively. However, AICE-JRF/SRF (PGS) will be conducted on August 18, 2018. Candidates who have enrolled for the exam can visit the official website to check their results.

Steps To Download The ICAR 2018 Admit Cards (AIEEA)

Open the official website of ICAR. (www.icar.org.in)

Click on the AIEEA re-exam admit card link.

Enter the login details.

Click on download admit card.

Save it and take a printout for future use.

Click here to download the ICAR AIEEA admit card.

Now, only the applicant login link is active. The enrolled candidates are suggested to monitor the website regularly for the AIEEA re-exam admit cards. The admit card contains all the details such as roll number and venue of the exam.

According to ICAR's official notification of AIEEA-UG, "23rd All India Entrance Re-examination For Admission (AIEEA-UG 2018) to 15% seats (100% seats at NDRI Karnal, RLBCAU Jhansi and Dr. RP CAU, Pusa) in bachelor degree programmes and award of National Talent Scholarships in agriculture & allied science subjects (other than veterinary science) in accredited Agricultural Universities for academic session 2018-19."

10 Study Tips for An Approaching Exam
The Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) has released the answer key for the RAS/RTS exam 2018 soon. According to reports, the answer key was supposed to be out by Monday evening, but so far (Tuesday morning) there has been no update on the same.

Nearly 4.97 lakh candidates had registered for the examination, out of which, 3,76,762 candidates attended the examination. RPSC RAS/RTS Exam 2018 was held on Aug 5 around 1,454 centres of the state.

How To Check The RPSC RAS/RTS Exam 2018 Answer Keys

In order to check the RPSC RAS/RTS Exam 2018 Answer Keys, follow the steps given here:

Step 1: Log on to the RPSC official website.

Step 2: On the home page, under News and Events, click on the link that reads, "Answer key for RAS/RTS Comb. Comp. (PRE) Exam - 2018." (The link will be available once the answer keys are released.)

Step 3: The answer keys will be displayed on a PDF file.

Step 4: Save it to your computer and take a printout of it for reference.

Click here to directly go to the answer key page without waiting for the notification to flash on the home page. There are columns available for the answer key and the link will be published here once it is released.

For queries, candidates may contact the helpline numbers 0141-2221424/2221425.

About RPSC

RPSC exam is conducted every year to fill vacancies in the Rajasthan state civil services, such as clerical cadre, Rajasthan Administrative Service (R.A.S) and Rajasthan Police Service (R.P.S). Successful candidates will be eligible to make their entry into the government sector.
Exponential increase in technological advances. Escalating impact of climate change. Extreme political polarization. Three phrases that describe the world were living in and the emerging, evolving risks were grappling with. All demand bold, innovative advances by our industry if were to remain sustainable and relevant.

(This article is adapted from an address given to the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation, New York Chapter, June 7, 2018.)

Theres another area that demands bold and innovative action as well: diversity and inclusion (D&I).

Although D&I has become a part of our current industry vernacular, its not a new concept. In one form or another, companies have been working to create a level playing field in the workplace for decades. But recent reports indicate that, rather than making steady progress, were actually losing ground in our collective D&I efforts. In the face of our dramatically changing world, this should be cause for concern for all of us.

The absence of an effective, measurable D&I strategy falls squarely into the category of reputational risk. Increasingly, shareholders, investors, regulators and employees are requiring evidence of an authentic commitment to creating inclusive workplaces and governance structures.

Their demands reflect the realities of our world. More than half of the global population is under the age of 30. These young people are diverse and digital. Theyre global citizens, and theyre not going to accept a job where they dont recognize themselves and where they dont feel welcome. As their careers advance, theyre going to insist that work environments and policies align with their priorities.

We need to pay attention to the fact that theres not been steady industrywide progress in creating workplaces that reflect the world we live in. A few examples that should serve as red flags:

The New York Times reported a few weeks ago that the number of women leading Fortune 500 companies declined by 25 percent from last year. And this from a tiny base of 32 women (The Number of Female Chief Executives Is Falling, The New York Times, May 23, 2018).

EY has a Countdown Clock that estimates how long it will be until the world reaches gender parity. When EY launched the clock at Davos in 2015, the estimate was 80 years. Now its 216 years. By the way, in the few days I spent preparing these comments, it slipped another year.

Theres a longitudinal study underway in the U.K. thats tracking the rate at which women are appointed to the boards of the FTSE350 (Hampton Alexander Review https://ftsewomenleaders.com/). The British government wants representation on every FTSE350 board to be 30 percent female by 2020. The latest report indicates that, in order for companies to meet these targets, almost half of all appointments made in the next two years need to be women (Nearly half of FTSE 350 Board roles must go to women to meet Governments 2020 targets, The Telegraph, June 27, 2018).

Youve probably seen some of the excuses that men have given for not appointing more women to a board position. Some of them listed in the Hampton-Alexander report thats tracking the FTSE350 initiative were:

I dont think women fit comfortably into the board environment.

Most women dont want the hassle or pressure of sitting on a board.

All the good women have already been snapped up.

Why has it been so hard to establish inclusive workplaces?

Well, its only recently that weve had the data, experience and, most importantly, the insight to really understand what authentic diversity and inclusion looks like.

During the last few years, theres been a lot of research into D&I initiatives. Weve been at this for long enough that we have some good information about what works and what doesnt.

We now have statistically proven data from a global study proving the direct link between diversityparticularly in the C-suiteand the bottom line.

McKinsey launched a report in 2015 that has served as a guide for many companies looking to put a D&I policy in place. Earlier this year, they produced an update to their initial findings.

We know D&I makes good business sense. We know its the right thing to do intellectually. But were talking about behaviorbehavior, which is entirely subjective and which is, more often than wed like to admit, guided by bias, usually unconscious. Pina Albo, Hamilton Insurance Group

In their second report, McKinsey expanded their dataset to include over 1,000 companies in 12 countries. There were two main conclusions from this update: Progress has indeed been unexpectedly slow, and theres irrefutable proof between D&I and a positive impact to the bottom line.

We know D&I makes good business sense. We know its the right thing to do intellectually. But were talking about behaviorbehavior, which is entirely subjective and which is, more often than wed like to admit, guided by bias, usually unconscious.

Thats another area that were much more informed about: unconscious bias. All of us carry imprints from our childhoodhow we were raised, what we were taught, where we lived, went to school, worshipped.

As informed as we might be intellectually about diversity and inclusion, we often arent aware of how and when we default to those early imprints in making decisions about who to hire and who to promote.

Let me share an anecdote from Hamilton: Our CFO, Jonathan Reiss, was the keynote industry speaker at the Bermuda Captive Conference held in Bermuda in June. The theme of the conference was diversity and inclusion. Jonathan is the executive sponsor of D&I at Hamilton, and one of the things he shared was the effect unconscious bias training had on him when he was a partner at EY.

Jonathan went into the training feeling comfortable in his open and accepting approach to diversity. He left feeling a bit shocked at the bias he carried unconsciously. He said it was a moment of real revelation to him.

I hear that story and Im full of hope. There are lots of men like Jonathan. Many may have had similar experiences and a desire to overcome these barriers to D&I.

Individually and as an industry, we have a wonderful opportunity to crack this nut together. Women cant, and shouldnt, do it by themselves. Neither should men or minority groups.

All the research, all the reports, all the learning indicate we have more than enough willand now, more than enough learningto effect meaningful change.

As we tackle the emerging risks of the 21st century, lets embed our commitment to diverse, inclusive workplaces in every solution. Its the smart thing to do. Its the right thing to do.

So, lets do it.
Photo: Mamas for Mamas

Mamas for Mamas has partnered with Canadian Blood Services to help ensure lifesaving blood products are available to hospital patients in need.

Mamas for Mamas are helping to recruit new donors and fill appointments to help collect 148 blood donations at the clinic as part of the Partners for Life program.

When organizations partner with Canadian Blood Services, youre doing more than to committing to raise awareness and recruit new donors. Youll gain a sense of team spirit and real accomplishment.

Partners for Life offers an organization the opportunity to:

Give Life- Every blood donation makes a difference. And sometimes it takes multiple donors to save a life. For example, it can take five donors to save someone who needs cardiovascular surgery.

Engage as a team- Saving lives together is the ultimate team builder and gives employees a sense of pride that their company is committed to making a difference.

Build reputation- Partnering with Canadian Blood Services is a great way to increase your corporate profile while meeting your social responsibility objectives.

Celebrate your success- Let your employees, customers and others know how you are building a stronger, healthier community.

Develop employee skills- Your staff will have abundant opportunities to champion the blood donation cause and make a difference.

Grow your business- Research shows Canadians are more likely to have a positive impression of corporations that visibly support Canadian Blood Services. According to a study by Ipsos Reid, 71 per cent of Canadians strongly agree that corporations that host blood drives are doing a good thing, and 78 per cent would be more likely to purchase products or services from corporations that visibly support blood donation in Canada.

"We are pleased and proud to have the opportunity to help give life in this way especially before a long weekend as the need for blood does not take a holiday," said Executive Director, Shannon Christensen with Mamas for Mamas.



"We are happy about making a real difference in the lives of Canadian hospital patients. This year, 100,000 new blood donors are needed across Canada to meet patient needs - including over 2,800 new donors needed right here in the Interior," she added.



For more info about adopting a clinic near you, visit blood.ca/partnersforlife.
Photo: Jet Rektor

UPDATE 7:05 p.m.

Employees of the Packing House Pub in Rutland say a hedge fire on their property Monday evening was intentionally set by an irate patron who refused to pay his bill.

He looked homeless, as he had his stuff outside, Carli Welder said. Apparently he then went to the liquor store attached to us, and tried to steal a bunch of liquor there as well.

The store called the police, and while police were on the way, the man lit the hedge at the rear of the pub on fire. RCMP arrived shortly afterwards and arrested him, Welder said.

The fire was quickly doused by pub staff and the Kelowna Fire Department.

ORIGINAL 5:20 p.m.

A cedar hedge behind a pub in Rutland went up in flames Monday evening.

Fire crews rushed to the Packinghouse Pub on Finns Road at about 4:45 p.m. for a report of a quickly spreading grass fire behind the pub.

Witnesses say by the time to fire department arrived, the pub owner and other bystanders had mostly knocked the fire down with their own hoses. Firefighters then took over and fully extinguished the blaze.

No word on the cause of the fire, but residents say the area is frequented by transients.
Photo: CTV Vancouver Scientists believe J50, a starving orca from the endangered southern resident killer whale population, is suffering from an infection that could kill her.

An international effort to save an important orca from an endangered killer whale population has hit rough waters.

About a half dozen vessels are scouring the waters off Vancouver Island and Puget Sound, searching for J50, a four-year-old female that might only have days to live, reports CTV Vancouver.

Her pod has not been since Saturday night, and past sightings suggest the whale is starving, lethargic and possibly fighting some type of infection. Her death would deal a massive blow to the southern population of just 75 orcas, because she is just one of a few whales in the pod that can reproduce.

Michael Milstein of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says they are considering a plan that would see them get close enough to the killer whale so they can take a breath sample and use a syringe on a pole to inject the orca with antibiotics.

The NOAA said that method would be preferable to feeding J50 medication-stuffed salmon, which would have to be administered on a daily basis.

"As you can tell we've had a lot of challenges in seeing them daily," Milstein said. "The benefit of doing (an injection) is we can deliver a longer lasting dose of antibiotics."

The strategy has never been attempted on a wild orca before, and there's no guarantee it would work.

The same pod also includes J35, the whale recently captured in heartbreaking photographs pushing the body of her deceased calf to the surface.

with files from CTV Vancouver
Photo: Area 27

The Area 27 private speedway in Oliver is breaking ground this month on its first permanent building on the property after opening two years ago.

An 11,000-square-foot multipurpose building is getting underway, to be built over the next 10 months and completed in 2019.

This one will be our first administrative building, we call it almost a clubhouse  it has a kitchen, a bar area, a lounge, the classroom for the driving school, locker room/change room, assistant general manager Felicity Johnson said.

The building is the first of several coming to the facility, with a kart track being built alongside the administrative building. Multiple garage areas for manufacturers and for lease to members will follow in the next few years.

The club has capped membership at 300, charging upwards of $45,000 for access to the 4.8-kilometre, 16-turn track designed by Canadian racing icon Jacques Villeneuve.

It announced at the start of this year that it had sold out of those memberships, less than two years after the track was completed in later-summer 2016.

We have another nearly sold out calendar again this year, so that means from the end of March when we first open to the first week of November, we have maybe four days or so that are empty, Johnson said.

She noted that the speedway has a public spectator section that's open to visitors hoping to catch some of the action on the track.
National carrier Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) will be suspending flights to Canada amid an escalating diplomatic row between the two countries, a report said.



The airline has announced an immediate suspension of reservations on its flights to Toronto and the suspension of all flights to and from Toronto from August 13, said a report in Saudi Press Agency, citing an official statement from the airline.



The airline said it would cover cancellation fees, find alternative flights and issue refunds to passengers set to fly out to Canada.
Photo: CTV

One man is dead and another is in stable condition after a stabbing incident in Surrey.

RCMP say they found a man had been stabbed near 108 Avenue and 152 Street around 4:30 p.m. Sunday.

The man was taken to a local hospital in stable condition, however, a short time later, a second man was dropped at a local hospital suffering from serious injuries. The second man died as a result of his injuries.



The Surrey Serious Crime Unit and the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) have assumed the conduct of the investigations that are believed to be related.



This appears to be a targeted attack with no risk to the general public.



IHIT will be handling any further media enquiries with respect to this matter. Anyone with information is asked to contact the IHIT Information Line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or by email at [email protected] Should you wish to remain anonymous, please contact Crimestoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Photo: Jana Dinsmore Photo: Jana Dinsmore Photo: Jana Dinsmore Photo: Jana Dinsmore Photo: Jana Dinsmore Photo: Contributed Photo: Jana Dinsmore Photo: Amie Harbor Photo: Rae A Schan 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Justin Trudeau celebrated the B.C. Day holiday Monday at a summer picnic in a park with about 3,000 people in Penticton, of whom many wanted to pose for a selfie with the prime minister, while others held placards opposed to the Trans Mountain pipeline.

Trudeau said the provincial holiday is a time to celebrate what brings Canada together, which includes the ability and willingness to listen to others and tolerate their views.

The prime minister was in British Columbia over the long weekend where he attended the Vancouver Pride Parade, visited a farmer's market on Vancouver Island and toured an evening market in Richmond, before arriving Monday in the Okanagan.

He was accompanied by his wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, on the bandshell stage at Gyro Park with local politicians, including Penticton Mayor Andrew Jakubeit, local B.C. member of the legislature Dan Ashton and Richard Cannings, South Okanagan-West Kootenay New Democrat MP.

But he has been met on his B.C. trip with people protesting the Liberal government's decision to buy the controversial Trans Mountain pipeline.

Trudeau said Saturday in Duncan, B.C., the project is going ahead. He said it represents Canada's aspirations to build a strong economy and protect the environment.

Penticton resident Cheryl Calderbank said she wanted to come to the event to observe Penticton's response to Trudeau. She said prior to the event, there were social media posts in Penticton that Trudeau would get a rough reception over his government's pipeline stance.

"My belief is no matter what people think, no matter what everybody's political opinion, he's still our prime minister and he needs to be treated with respect," she said. "And it's B.C. Day, we need to celebrate."

Trudeau visited Granny's Fruit Stand early Monday in nearby Summerland, where he bought local nectarines and berry syrup.

-with files from Canadian Press
Photo: BC Wildfire Service

A wildfire has flared on Vancouver Island, prompting evacuation orders and alerts for properties in a rural area southwest of Nanaimo.

The Regional District of Nanaimo declared a state of local emergency and issued the evacuation order just before 9 p.m. Monday for several properties to the west of the Nanaimo Lakes wildfire, which broke out Sunday evening.

The BC Wildfire Service estimates the flames have scorched more than one square kilometre of bush and the regional district has also issued evacuation alerts for 77 properties nearest the eastern flank.

The wildfire service says more than 450 fires are burning across B.C., with fires of concern in each of the province's six wildfire centres, including the northwest region where several large fires have forced evacuation orders around Telegraph Creek.

Firefighters from outside British Columbia are lending a hand, with crews from Mexico and New Zealand joining firefighters from Alberta, Northwest Territories and Saskatchewan, while teams from Australia are expected Tuesday.

Environment Canada has issued heat warnings and special weather statements for large parts of B.C., with conditions not due to ease until later in the week, while the wildfire service lists the fire danger rating as high to extreme across most of the province.
Alanna Kelly

Red-light cameras will now be watching you 24-7.

The cameras at 140 high-crash intersections across B.C. will now be operating at all times, instead of just six hours a day.

"For too long, cameras with a proven record of curbing red-light runners and the serious crashes they cause were not operating at full capacity," Mike Farnworth, minister of public safety and solicitor general, said in a press release.

In 2017, 350,000 crashes were recorded in B.C.,with about 60 per cent at intersections.

Kelowna has five red-light cams, Vernon has one, and there are many in the Lower Mainland.

The full activation of these cameras is overdue and an important step for safety on some of our busiest roadways, said Farnworth.

The cameras take a photo of a vehicle if it enters an intersection after the light turns red. The registered owner is then responsible for the ticket even if they weren't driving. They don't receive penalty points, however.

In Kelowna, cameras are set up at the intersection of Harvey Avenue and Gordon Drive, Harvey Avenue and Spall Road, Harvey Avenue and Cooper Road, Dilworth Drive and Springfield Road, and at Highway 97 and Banks Road.

Data collected by ICBC shows there were 344 collisions at those intersections between 2009 and 2013.

In March, the ministry announced plans to ticket the fastest drivers passing through intersections on red, yellow or green lights.
Photo: Twitter

The winner of the 2018 Honda Celebration of Light has been announced, with South Korea claiming the crown.

It was the country's first time presenting at the event this past Saturday night in Vancouver, following performances earlier in the week by South Africa and Sweden.

South Korea was represented by Daehan Fireworks Co. Judges were impressed by the team's timing and sync throughout their show, plus their novel effects and pure size of the show.

Councillor Raymond Louie of the City of Vancouver was one of the judges, and called the show "intense."

"We thank Daehan Fireworks Co. for their performance at this years festival and congratulate them on their thrilling win this year," he said.

More than 1.2 million spectators packed Vancouver's beaches over the course of this year's festival, which celebrated its 28th year.

Paul Tilbury and Heather Owen, co-chairs of the Vancouver Fireworks Festival Society, offered their thanks for another successful year.

"Were already looking forward to next year! they said in a release.

This year, each team incorporated the theme of love into their show, a theme voted on by the public.

The People's Choice Award winner, decided by the public, will be announced later on Tuesday.
Photo: Contributed The Skip Ball toy sold at Dollarama is being recalled.

A Dollarama toy is being recalled because it contains high levels of a potentially dangerous chemical.

The Skip Ball toy consists of a pink ankle loop and a multicoloured ball, attached together by a plastic cord.

The product number 14-1401338 can be found on the upper front part of the packaging and the UPC 667888025213, on the back.

The Skip Ball toy may contain levels of phthalates that exceed the allowable limit. Studies suggest certain phthalates, including DEHP, may cause reproductive and developmental abnormalities in young children when soft vinyl products containing phthalates are sucked or chewed for extended periods.

As of July 27, Dollarama L.P. has not received any reports of incident or injuries related to the use of the Skip Ball toy.

More than 500,000 Skip Ball toys were sold in Canada.
It has already been announced that, gradually, users will be able to count on the new update and, in this...
Cemtechs Asian adventure

ICR Research By

Published 07 August 2018

Cemtech Asia 2018 was held at the Melia Hanoi, Vietnam, on 24-27 June, and welcomed 225 delegates to participate in a conference and exhibition that celebrated the thriving cement industry of the region. By ICR Research, UK.

Thomas Armstrong, managing editor of International Cement Review, inaugurated Cemtech Asia 2018 by welcoming the 225 conference participants and acknowledging the importance of the Asian cement sector, where 75 per cent of the worlds cement is consumed. Mr Armstrong introduced the 10 markets of the ASEAN region, which has seen its consumption double since 1997 to 220Mt in 2017. In particular, Vietnam has recorded significant growth over the past 30 years, from 2.57Mta to 60Mta in 2017.

Conference programme

Market reports

The first morning of the conference continued with a detailed overview of the Asian markets. Vietnam is one of the most active markets in the region. As a result of its rapid development phase it has a cement industry ranked amongst the top five in the world. Dr Nguyen Quang Cung, president of the Vietnam National Cement Association (VNCA), examined the current structure of the countrys cement sector and announced future investment projects, including the construction of five new clinker lines. Going forward, the government is developing a new industry strategy to raise efficiency and environmental performance for the period until 2030.

Dr Tongbo Sui, China Cement Association, provided an overview of the Chinese cement industry and highlighted the importance of upgrading and adapting the sector for green manufacturing and its development as a key contributor to the circular economy. The industry aims to reduce CO 2 emissions by 40-45 per cent per unit of GDP by 2020 and continue efforts to co-process municipal solid waste (MSW) and reduce NO x emissions.

Dr Yourong Chen, CNBM Group (China), followed this by showing trends for energy-saving technology in the Chinese cement industry, in line with the countrys target to reduce both NO x emissions and energy intensity per GDP by 15 per cent before 2020. Mr Chen noted several examples which increase the energy-saving characteristics of the burning system, including a six-stage suspension preheater and innovative precalciner which increases kiln capacity and prolongs the gas residence time.

Dr Shailendra Chouksey, Cement Manufacturers Association (India), explored how the Indian cement industry will face rising demand from government projects such as a scheme to build 10.7m homes in rural areas and 3.7m units in urban regions. Furthermore, the countrys cement sector is expected to benefit from increased investment in infrastructure, with overall growth needed to increase capacity utilisation, which is low at 59 per cent.

ICRs Technical Consultant and founder of Whitehopleman (UK), Dr Michael Clark, presented an overview of industry developments that have taken place during the first 30 years of ICRs publication.

Soe Naing, Myanmar Cement Association, analysed the future risk of overcapacity within Myanmars cement industry. The country currently operates 18 plants, two clinker grinding plants and a terminal, with a total production capacity of 7Mta. While the industry began producing surplus in 2015, several future construction projects could push demand up to 25Mta.

Adi Munandir, PT Semen Indonesia (Indonesia), analysed the challenges and opportunities of the Indonesian cement industry. While it has a long-term overcapacity projection and is still in a recovery process, the countrys cement industry could face increased demand from its rapidly-growing population. Moreover, solutions could arise in the form of value-added products and an increased infrastructure spending budget.

UK-based independent consultant, Peter Hoddinott, examined ways to resolve structural overcapacity. A growing issue with an estimated 2bnta of global overcapacity and capacity additions continually outstripping demand, finding a solution for overcapacity is particularly important for the Asian region. In addition to strategies such as cutting costs, securing the domestic market and avoiding price wars, Mr Hoddinott proposed an innovative M&A solution to enable capacity rationalisation in oversupplied markets.

Stephen Farren, FLSmidth (Denmark), presented a case study of how the supplier upgraded Xuan Thanh Cements Ha Nam facility into having a world-class operation and maintenance (O&M) performance. The companys O&M options include an online support centre, onsite support, technical management and a full O&M partnership.

Jim OBrien, Jim OBrien CSR Consulting (Ireland), looked at how sustainability can be used to boost profitability. Alternative fuels and raw materials, for example, come at a medium-level cost but can be a major profit improver.

The final two presentations of the first day explored manufacturing technology, which would become the driving focus of the following day. FCT Combustions Roger Hassold (Australia) explored how its Turbu-FlexTM burner features an injection pattern which increases fuel flexibility and can lower fuel costs. Luc Reiffel, ATS Group/Walter Materials Handling (France), presented a series of case studies from the ASEAN region that highlighted technologies used to allow a larger alternative fuel grainsize into the pyroprocessing system, which in turn reduces the pre-processing cost.



Technical presentations

KHD Humboldt Wedags Dr York Reichardt (Germany) commenced the technical presentations of the second day by observing how its roller press with stud lining can operate for 40,000h without refurbishment, whereas re-welding is usually required in a VRM after 4000h. Furthermore, he introduced the GrindX RP7 140/80 modular plant, which is designed for simple assembly.

The topic of modular grinding stations (MGSs) continued with Cemengals Moises Nunez (Spain), who looked at the companys Plug&Grind series, a solution to the growing demand for blended cements. Cemengals MGS options are covered in further detail on p66 of this issue.

The first session of the day concluded with two presentations exploring optimisation in the sector from distinct perspectives. Nijat Orujov, VDZ (Germany), noted how mill audits that acquire and analyse mill data can be used to optimise the grinding process. Elsewhere, Informs Karsten Horn (Germany) spoke about how logistical assets such as truck deliveries can be improved through the implementation of advanced computer algorithms.

In a diversion from the technical presentations, Lucky Cements Noman Hasan (Pakistan) delivered an overview of Pakistans cement industry, which is expected to receive a further increase in demand due to an increasingly urbanised population. Over half of the countrys population will be living in cities by 2030 and therefore, over 100m citizens would require upgraded urban infrastructure. As such, production capacity in the country is set to rise to 76Mta in 2020-21.

Matthias Dietrich, Sika Services (Switzerland), examined the impact of cement additives on the production of cement. Amongst other benefits, cement additives increase production, save energy and reduce wear.

Fons Technologys Mogens Juhl Fns (Turkey) demonstrated the benefits of having a stepped air flow function (STAFF) built into its clinker coolers, which provides a consistent flow of air despite pressure losses in the clinker layer.

SAP Asias Avenish Prasad (Singapore)provided an overview of digital trends in the cement industry and suggested that there are additional opportunities to gain a competitive advantage by embracing new technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data.

Alberto Pedrinoni of Redecam Group (Italy) presented a series of successful case studies where the company had installed dedusting systems in the ASEAN region to reduce dust emissions to <10mg/Nm3. Elsewhere, Rogerio Lopes, Yara (Sweden), spoke about the reduction of NO x emissions through the use of selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR) systems. Over 140 cement production lines use Yaras SNCR system, which involves the injection of a reagent into the process and has resulted in an >80 per cent reduction in NO x .

Alan Tran, Aumund (Hong Kong), covered the companys environmentally friendly solutions for mobile loading, unloading, road imports and storage. This included the Samson feeder solution for an intake system, which requires no excavation and reduces dust emissions compared to a traditional system.

thyssenkrupps Steven Yap (Singapore) analysed the benefits of investing in an efficient automated laboratory system. On an average 6000tpd kiln line, an automated system could provide an annual saving of US$4.7m. The companys polab system covers three main areas of operation: automatic sample delivery, sample preparation and quality assurance software.

Chongren Zhong of Shanghai Conch Kawasaki (China) delivered a comprehensive look at waste heat recovery plants and solid waste disposal solutions supplied by the company. The Conch Kawasaki Kiln (CKK) system was introduced in 2010 as a waste disposal plant that combines a dry-process cement kiln with a gasification furnace to dispose of solid waste, with 26 sets (6900tpd) now installed in China.

Plant tour

As part of the Cemtech Asia programme, delegates were invited to visit the newly-commissioned line at Xuan Thanh Cements Ha Nam facility. Adding 12,500tpd of capacity to the plant, the line began producing clinker in October 2017. Upon arrival at the plant, delegates were welcomed by plant staff and shown the FLSmidth-supplied production line.

Extended programme

Cemtech Asia 2018 featured its largest regional exhibition yet of 39 stands, giving delegates the opportunity for direct contact with a range of leading equipment suppliers.

In addition, participants attended a gala dinner featuring local entertainment to celebrate the conclusion of a successful conference and exhibition.

Next event

Cemtech Europe will be held at the Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus, Turkey, on 14-17 October 2018.




Local volunteers receive awards and nationally recognized chamber of commerce executive Mick Fleming will speak about the power of community leaders at the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting on Aug. 22 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Chattanooga Convention Center.Award presentations will include: Ambassador of the Year Award (2017 recipient: Amy Allara Kinworthy, Chattanooga Zoo) Chamber Council of the Year Award (2017 recipient: Downtown Council) Chamber Council Membership Award (2017 recipient: North Hamilton County Council)We'll celebrate our past and our future with a focus on celebrating all that's ahead for Chattanooga at our 2018 Annual Meeting," said Christy Gillenwater, president & CEO of the Chattanooga Chamber.Our keynoter, Mick Fleming, is a longtime friend and colleague with expert community development insight. As we recognize our most dedicated Chamber volunteers, he'll address the vast positive impact of volunteer and community leadership and how even a small group of people can give the world a better future.Mr. Fleming has served for more than 16 years as CEO of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, the professional association for chambers which named the Chattanooga Chamber as Chamber of the Year last year. In this role, Mr. Fleming has provided strategic planning, consulting support and direct motivation to hundreds of chambers of all sizes."Throughout his storied career, Fleming has contributed to the community development movement in a variety of ways, including creating and leading the Ford Foundation's Regional Sustainable Development Fellowship. He served as a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Committee of 100 and the Council of State Chambers for 15 years and wrote key works such as 'Making Your Chamber Make a Difference,' 'Heresies Worth Discussing' and the 'Horizon Initiative,' exploring how chambers will adapt during the next decade."The associations where he served as CEO for more than 20 years benefited from numerous, multi-year strategic plans and funding campaigns. Fleming also has considerable experience on the other side of the aisle; he has been an elected officer in two local chambers and board member of other nonprofit organizations. During eight years as vice chairman of the World Chambers Federation, he worked on collaborative projects with chambers in the largest cities and nations in the world," officials said.Annual Meeting will also include recognizing the Chambers 2018-19 Board Chair Tom Glenn of Elders Ace Hardware and Outgoing Chair Larry Buie of Chattanooga Gas.Member tickets are $55, $65 for non-members and $650 for corporate tables. Register here
Eastern Cement records 46% fall in 2Q18 profit

07 August 2018

Saudi Arabias Eastern Province Cement Co has recorded a 45.7 per cent YoY decline in net profit for the 2Q18, falling to SAR19m (US$5.06m) from SAR35m. Sales dropped 4.4 per cent to SAR152m from SAR159m.



In the 1H18 the companys profit decreased 59.3 per cent to SAR35m, while sales dipped 19.9 per cent to SAR290m.



Eastern Cement attributed the fall in 1H18 profit to a decline in the value and volume of precast concrete sales.

Published under
Uprooted Palestinians are at the heart of the conflict in the M.E Palestinians uprooted by force of arms. Yet faced immense difficulties have survived, kept alive their history and culture, passed keys of family homes in occupied Palestine from one generation to the next.
Ever wondered which American universities are the hardest colleges to get into? Whether you love academia yourself or have a child or grandchild applying to college, its fun to fantasize about what life would be like at an Ivy League school or another elite college. But if you apply to a school with the lowest acceptance rate in the country, it can be pretty tough to get past the admissions committee.

Below, check out the universities whose low acceptance rates make them the hardest colleges to get into in the United States.

20. Dartmouth College

Hanover, New Hampshire

Acceptance rate: 11%

Dartmouth College, an Ivy League university in New Hampshire, has one of the lowest acceptance rates in the nation, according to U.S. News. In fact, the college only accepts 11% of the students who apply, according to the data on the class that entered in the fall of 2016 (the most recent year available). U.S. News reports that the college was founded in 1769. It has an undergraduate enrollment of 4,310 students, who have a rural, 237-acre campus to explore. About 90% of them live in on-campus housing, and almost 70% of Dartmouth students are members of Greek organizations.

Next: This military academy ranks as one of the hardest colleges to get into.

19. United States Military Academy

West Point, New York

Acceptance rate: 10%

While the United States Military Academy at West Point doesnt have the lowest college acceptance rate in the nation, it comes pretty close. This public institution, which dates to 1802, accepts just 10% of applicants, according to U.S. News. The academy, about 50 miles north of New York City on the Hudson River, has a suburban campus that stretches to 16,080 acres. Its the oldest of the nations five federal service academies, and its 4,389 students (or cadets) are officers in training, with their tuition funded by the U.S. Army in exchange for an active-service duty obligation.

Next: Only a few applicants get into this engineering college.

18. Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering

Needham, Massachusetts

Acceptance rate: 10%

The Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering may not be as famous as an Ivy League school or a military academy. But it has a similarly low acceptance rate, offering admission to just 10% of applicants. U.S. News reports that this private university has an undergraduate enrollment of only 378 students. Most of those students live on the colleges campus 14 miles west of Boston. Students can choose among three majors: electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering, or engineering (which encompasses bioengineering, computing, materials science, and systems).

Next: This prestigious school has one of the lowest acceptance rates in the nation.

17. University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Acceptance rate: 9%

The University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League institution, may not have the lowest acceptance rate in the nation. But it comes very close, offering admission to only 9% of students who apply. U.S. News reports that this Philadelphia university dates back to 1740. In fact, Benjamin Franklin founded the school. Penn has a total of 10,019 undergraduate students, who study in five of the universitys 12 different schools. (Seven of those schools offer only graduate studies.) More than 25% of the study body is involved in Greek life, which encompasses almost 50 fraternities and sororities.

Next: This small college has a very low acceptance rate.

16. Pomona College

Claremont, California

Acceptance rate: 9%

U.S. News reports that Pomona College is a private institution that was founded in 1887 and has since become one of the hardest colleges to get into across the United States. Pomona accepts just 9% of applicants and has an undergraduate enrollment of 1,660. The college is located in Claremont, California, 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. According to U.S. News, Pomonas founders envisioned a college of the New England type when they created this school with small classes and strong student-faculty relationships.

Next: Pomona ties with another college for the lowest acceptance rate in Claremont.

15. Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, California

Acceptance rate: 9%

Another college in Claremont, California, Claremont McKenna College accepts just 9% of applicants. It was founded in 1946, and 1,347 undergraduates are enrolled in this private college, according to U.S. News. Claremont McKenna is part of the seven-college consortium known as the Claremont Colleges, which includes Scripps College, Pomona, Harvey Mudd College, Pitzer College, Claremont Graduate University, and Keck Graduate Institute of Applied Life Sciences. Students can take classes  and join activities  at any of the institutions.

Next: This Ivy League school admits only a few applicants.

14. Brown University

Providence, Rhode Island

Acceptance rate: 9%

Most people probably assume that an Ivy League university wins the prize for the lowest acceptance rate, and Brown University comes close. The private university has an acceptance rate of just 9%, according to U.S. News, and has 6,926 undergraduates enrolled. Brown sits on top of College Hill in Providence, Rhode Island, and requires students to live on campus for their first six semesters. There are about 400 student organizations to choose among, and the university all has a small but vibrant Greek community, U.S. News reports.

Next: This university has the lowest acceptance rate in the Midwest.

13. University of Chicago

Chicago, Illinois

Acceptance rate: 8%

The University of Chicago dates back to 1890 and has the low acceptance rate youd expect of such a historic university. (It accepts only 8% of students who apply.) The schools Hyde Park setting enables it to offer a rich campus life in a big-city setting, according to U.S. News. Many of the 5,941 undergraduates enrolled live on campus. Freshmen have to live on campus, and more than 50% of upperclassmen choose to remain on campus, too. Students are placed in houses within their dorms, where they develop communities that offer academic and social support.

Next: This school has the lowest acceptance rate among military academies.

12. United States Naval Academy

Annapolis, Maryland

Acceptance rate: 8%

West Point isnt the military academy with the lowest acceptance rate. That honor goes to the Naval Academy in Annapolis. This academy dates back to 1845 and has 4,526 undergraduates enrolled, according to U.S. News. Its the second-oldest of the federal service academies. Its students, known as midshipmen, get their tuition funded by the Navy in return for active-duty service after graduation. They also have to meet physical education requirements all four years to graduate. And they all live in Bancroft Hall, a huge dormitory complex, and receive a monthly stipend.

Next: This specialized school has one of the lowest acceptance rates in the nation.

11. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Acceptance rate: 8%

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology, or MIT, is well-known as one of the hardest colleges to get into. It was founded in 1861 and has 4,524 undergraduate students, according to U.S. News. Youll find MITs campus just outside of Boston, and the school focuses on scientific and technological research. U.S. News reports, University research expenditures have exceeded $700 million a year, with funding from government agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Defense. About 70% of undergrads live on campus.

Next: This Christian college has a very low acceptance rate.

10. Jarvis Christian College

Hawkins, Texas

Acceptance rate: 8%

Many people havent heard of Jarvis Christian College in Hawkins, Texas. But that doesnt make it any easier to get into. This historically black liberal arts college offers admission to just 8% of the students who apply, according to U.S. News. Founded in 1912, the small school has an undergraduate enrollment of about 900. Its affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). And according to U.S. News, The College prides itself on providing an education for students, who otherwise, may not have an opportunity to receive a college education.

Next: This small, focused school has the lowest acceptance rate for universities of its type.

9. California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, California

Acceptance rate: 8%

The California Institute of Technology was founded in 1891 and has one of the lowest acceptance rates in the nation. U.S. News explains that this private university  colloquially known as Caltech  has a small undergraduate enrollment of 979. The schools academic programs focus on science and engineering. Social and academic life at Caltech centers on the eight student houses, which the school describes as self-governing living groups,' according to U.S. News. Students only have to live on campus as freshmen, but more than 80% remain their house all four years.

Next: This Ivy League school is notoriously difficult to get into.

8. Princeton University

Princeton, New Jersey

Acceptance rate: 7%

Lots of people would probably name Princeton if they had to guess at which schools are the hardest colleges to get into. And it definitely makes the top 10, with an acceptance rate of just 7%. U.S. News reports that Princeton University got its start back in 1746, and it has a historic 600-acre campus in the quiet town of Princeton, New Jersey. About 5,400 undergraduate students study at Princeton, one of the oldest colleges in the nation. Students live in six residential colleges that provide a residential community as well as dining services. And upperclassmen can join one of more than ten eating clubs.

Next: This performing arts school has an incredibly low acceptance rate.

7. Juilliard School

New York, New York

Acceptance rate: 7%

One of the hardest colleges to get into isnt an Ivy League university at all, but a competitive school that focuses on education in the performing arts. U.S. News reports that the Juilliard School accepts just 7% of applicants and has a total undergraduate enrollment of only 580. Students get a pre-professional education in music, dance, or drama. And they often need to audition to get into the school. Freshmen have to live in university residence halls, and they take liberal arts classes in addition to courses in their major.

Next: This historic university has become one of the hardest colleges to get into across America.

6. Yale University

New Haven, Connecticut

Acceptance rate: 6%

Yale University may not have the lowest acceptance rate in the nation, but it comes very close. One of the hardest colleges to get into, Yale dates back to 1701. U.S. News reports that this Ivy League university assigns students to live in one of 14 residential colleges during their time at Yale. Each college has a head and dean who live in the college and eat with students in the dining halls. Yale is made up of the College, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and 12 professional schools. And the university is well-known for its secret societies, the most famous of which is the Skull and Bones.

Next: Another Ivy League school has an even lower acceptance rate than Yale.

5. Columbia University

New York, New York

Acceptance rate: 6%

Columbia University ranks among the top five hardest colleges to get into thanks to its 6% acceptance rate. U.S. News notes that this Ivy, founded in 1754, has 6,113 undergraduate students who study in three undergraduate schools: Columbia College, The Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, and the School of General Studies. More than 90% of students live on Columbias campus in upper Manhattan, and the university offers a wide variety of student activities, including 25 Greek chapters.

Next: This school on the west coast is even more selective than Columbia.

4. Stanford University

Stanford, California

Acceptance rate: 5%

Stanford University narrowly misses having the lowest acceptance rate in the nation, offering admission to just 5% of the students who apply. U.S. News reports that Stanford has 7,034 undergraduates who study on the universitys pristine campus in Californias Bay Area. Four of Stanfords seven schools offer undergraduate and graduate coursework, and the university hosts a wide range of student organizations. That includes some well-known theatrical and musical groups.

Next: Eight U.S. presidents graduated from this university, one of the hardest colleges to get into in the U.S.

3. Harvard University

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Acceptance rate: 5%

If you asked most people to guess the college with the lowest acceptance rate, theyd probably pick Harvard. And with an acceptance rate of just 5%, this Ivy League school is definitely one of the hardest colleges to get into in the nation. U.S. News reports that Harvards founders began the school back in 1636. (That could explain why its library system houses the oldest collection in the U.S. and the largest private collection in the world.) Harvard has 13 schools and institutes and has made on-campus housing an integral part of student life.

Next: This college has the lowest acceptance rate in the nation.

2. Curtis Institute of Music

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Acceptance rate: 4%

The Curtis Institute of Music shares the lowest acceptance rate in the nation with just one other school. This very competitive music conservatory, founded in 1924, accepts just 4% of students who apply. All of its students receive a full scholarship to cover the cost of their tuition, and Curtis limits its enrollment to about 175 students. Thats because the school admits just enough students to maintain a full symphony orchestra and an opera program, plus programs in piano, guitar, composition, and organ.

Next: This college also has the lowest acceptance rate in America.

1. Alice Lloyd College

Pippa Passes, Kentucky

Acceptance rate: 4%

Alice Lloyd College also has the lowest acceptance rate in the nation, saying yes to just 4% of applicants. Its one of the hardest colleges to get into, but not that many people have heard of it, in part because it has an undergraduate enrollment of just 599 students. Founded in 1923, Alice Lloyd is one of a few work colleges, which enable students to fund their education through a mandatory work-study assignment. Further, U.S. News reports that tuition is guaranteed to qualified students residing in 108 Central Appalachian counties in parts of five states.

Read more: The Single Best College Town You Can Live In, Revealed

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Its been more than two decades since the world mourned the loss of Princess Diana after she passed away following a car crash in Paris. And today, people still have questions about her life, death, and the fortune she left behind.

Here, were revealing a few key details about her will including what she left to her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry.

Its estimated that at the time of her death on Aug. 31, 1997, the Princess of Wales net worth was just over $31 million.

A large portion of that was from her divorce settlement with Prince Charles in 1996 in which Diana reportedly received somewhere in the neighborhood of $25 million. As part of the settlement, she was allowed to keep her apartment at Kensington Palace which is where her children and their wives call home today.

Prince William and Kate Middleton spend some of their time at their country home Anmer Hall, but their primary residence is an apartment inside the London palace where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle also reside. Apartment 8, where they conduct official business meetings for everything from royal duties to charitable work, was Princess Dianas home until her death.

The terms of the princess will when she died stated that her estate would be distributed between her sons and put in a trust until they turned 25.

Other instructions laid out in her will said that the princes would get 75% of her jewelry and the remaining 25% should be divided among her 17 godchildren. However, Dianas mother and sister, who were the co-executors, changed some of the provisions the late princess had laid out by obtaining a secret variation order from the High Court of Justice. The change meant that William and Harry would not receive their shares of their mothers estate until they reached the age of 30, which came for William in 2012 and Harry in 2014.

As for Dianas godchildren, they would only get one memento of the princess instead of splitting 25% of her jewels and each piece they received had to be chosen by the executors, which is something that angered their parents.

William and Harry later proposed to their future wives with pieces from Dianas collection. The Duke of Cambridge gave Middleton Dianas iconic 12-carat sapphire engagement ring. The sapphire is surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds and set in 18-carat white gold.

Well as you may recognize now, its my mothers engagement ring and its very special to me, as Kate is very special to me now as well, William said in an interview after their engagement was announced in 2010. It was only right the two were put together. It was my way of making sure mother didnt miss out on today and the excitement and the fact that were going to spend the rest of our lives together.

Seven years later, Harry asked Markle to marry him with a ring he designed himself that included one diamond from Botswana and two diamonds from his moms personal collection. He told BBC he did so to make sure that shes with us on this crazy journey together.
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InterVarsity Sues University of Iowa After 38 Student Groups Are Expelled Over Policies Christian Post Contributor | 07 August, 2018 by Samuel Smith

An InterVarsity Christian student group is suing the University of Iowa after the school kicked it and several other religious groups off campus over what has been deemed as discriminatory leadership policies.

InterVarsity Graduate Student Fellowship filed a federal lawsuit against the university Monday after the club was de-recognized as an official campus student group last month because of its policy requiring that all group leaders be Christian and sign a statement of faith.

InterVarsity is not alone. The university also expelled 37 other student groups that upheld similar requirements last month, including the Chinese Student Christian Fellowship, Young Life, the Latter-day Saint Student Association, the Imam Mahdi Organization, and the Sikh Awareness Club.

InterVarsity, which has been on the Iowa City campus for over two decades, has a history of being welcoming to all students but requiring those who want to lead the group to comply and uphold the faith.

Throughout the spring semester of last year, the school administration pressured student groups to change their leadership policies so that they are in compliance with the university's human rights and discrimination policy.

The student group told the university that it wanted to have policies that reflect the importance of Christian leadership. According to the lawsuit, the school administration warned that it could not allow the group to have "a restriction on leadership related to religious beliefs," and that the group could not encourage its leaders to agree with the InterVarsity statement of faith.

After InterVarsity and the other groups refused to change their policies, the university formally moved in July to derecognize those groups.

"We're grateful to have been part of the university community for 25 years, and we think that the university has been a richer place for having Sikh, Muslim, Mormon, Catholic, Jewish, atheist, and Christian groups," Kristina Schrock, student president of InterVarsity Graduate Christian Fellowship, said in a statement. "Because we love our school, we hope it reconsiders and lets religious groups continue to authentically reflect their religious roots."

InterVarsity is being represented by the Washington-based religious freedom law firm Becket. In a statement, Becket attorney Daniel Blomberg asserted that booting religious groups off campus for requiring leaders to uphold the faith is not the way any university will "foster an intellectually diverse environment."

"Universities should allow students the space to form their own groups that challenge and grow their sincere beliefs," Blomberg said. "Banning religious groups from having religious leaders just flattens diversity and impoverishes the campus."

The university's decision to derecognize the 38 student groups comes after a federal judge ruled earlier this year that the university unfairly enforced its human rights discrimination policy when it expelled the student group Business Leaders in Christ from campus last year while other groups were not subject to similar enforcement.

A federal court gave Business Leaders in Christ a temporary injunction to have its banishment lifted through the spring semester. In June, a federal judge rejected the university's request to again de-recognize the group because it still hadn't applied the policy fairly.

Because the court order blocks the school from deregistering Business Leaders in Christ, Business Leaders in Christ is now the only university-affiliated student group that remains out of compliance with the university policy.

"There is pending litigation involving BLinC, and the federal district court has ordered the university to maintain BLinC's registration status until the conclusion of the litigation," university spokesperson Anne Bassett told The Gazette.

A jury trial is scheduled for March 2019 in the Business Leaders in Christ case.

Read more about InterVarsity on The Christian Post.
About 8,000 official and unofficial churches, as well as 100 mosques, have been closed in Rwanda for failing to comply with health, safety, and noise regulations. This includes 4 in 10 congregations belonging to a nationwide association of 3,300 Pentecostal churches.

And authorities indicate such shutting down of houses of worship in the East African nation will continue until congregations meet the strict requirements of a new law adopted by Rwandas parliament on July 27.

The latest requirement: Pastors must now have a degree in theological education from an accredited school. The law also prohibits church leaders from urging their followers to fast for lengthy periodslike Jesus 40 days in the wildernessin order to better secure Gods blessing; authorities claim this is a form of starvation.

Many churchgoers look at the new law as a form of harassment and restriction on freedom of worship. But many also fear to speak out, saying its a directive from the government and Christians should not oppose authorities.

The law also requires churches and prayer housesunofficial places where Christians gather to pray and worshipto explain their sources of funding, while donations received must be kept on a known bank account.

Lawmakers even debated imposing limits on how much churchgoers could tithe to their church, given the numerous complaints about pastors who collect money from impoverished worshipers while living luxurious lives. The Council of Protestant Churches in Rwanda even declared war on such bad pastors last year.

Robert Kayitare, a businessman who attends St. Peters Anglican church in Kigalis Remera neighborhood, believes the law by the government will sort out such pastors. The source of the money must be known and how the money collected from churchgoers spent should be known, he told CT.

The government gets irritated when you start preaching the type of American prosperity gospel which many African preachers are learning from American television and YouTube, Charles Mugisha, founder and chancellor of Africa College of Theology, recently told CTs Quick to Listen podcast. The government becomes protective of its citizens if a church or preacher begins to manipulate it.

Anastase Shyaka, head of the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), the government body in charge of regulating faith-based organizations, previously told CT the government is not targeting churches. He said the closures are only aimed at keeping Rwandans who visit these churches safe, since some buildings are in poor condition and life-threatening.

The closures do not infringe on the freedom to worship, but rather address the alarming proliferation of places of worship in dilapidated and unhygienic conditions, the RGB stated on July 27, as well as troubling behavior of unscrupulous individuals masquerading as religious leaders.

The RGB, which drafted the new religion law, accused Rwandan religious leaders of insulting women and other religions, and of forcing followers to fast to the point of death from starvation.

The right to religion is guaranteed in Rwandas constitution, written in 2003 and amended in 2015. But the latest RGB report on faith-based organizations stated the constitutions relevant Article 37 has led to the founding of too many churches and the establishment of too many religious denominations: 1,000 as of 2017, reports KT Press, a pro-government newspaper.

We discovered that the number of churches were bigger than the number of villages in the country, Shyaka recently toldInspiration on Sunday, a morning program on pro-government KT Radio. The number itself is not a problem. But in some buildings, three or four different denominations would hold prayer services at the same time, resulting in unbearable levels of noise and unsafe environment for occupants.

The new law amends Article 37 and its regulations on churches, mosques, and other faith-based organizations. World Watch Monitor listed many of the changes, including where churches must locate their toilets and how roofs, walls, parking lots, and other infrastructure must be constructed. Churches in turn have complained about the high cost of such improvements, as well as the short turnaround time allotted: 15 days.

Shyaka told Inspiration on Sunday that 14 percent of all churches closed nationwide had been allowed to reopen. For example, he said the Association of Pentecostal Churches of Rwanda had 1,381 of its 3,300 congregations closed. Pastor Charles Ndimubayo, leader of the associations northern region, confirmed to CT that 300 have since reopened.

Some religious leaders agree with the new law, believing that government intervention is indeed necessary to preserve the health and safety of churchgoers.

Pastor Jonas Matabaro, representative of the Restoration Church in Rwandas Northern Province, says the safety of churchgoers is important, and a degree in theology is necessary.

I support the governments action to have all poor structures used as prayer houses be closed. We need also to have pastors who are trained in theology, so as to teach the right doctrine, he said. Churchgoers and pastors ought to know the government is doing all this in good faith.

Other Christian leaders protest the move, saying preaching is a calling and not something necessarily learned from school. Example No. 1: Jesus.

Jesus was a successful preacher, but he didnt have a degree in theology as this government demands. Some of the disciples were simple fishermen, the administrator of one of the many Pentecostal churches in Kigali, who declined to be named, told CT.

Bishop Murekezi Masasu, leader of the Christian Churches Forum in the Rubavu district of Rwandas Western Province, said the governments intervention was timely because many of the unofficial prayer houses were in disgraceful condition and needed to be closed.

I dont agree with some pastors who say the action is a form of harassment, he said. You cannot turn your house into a church and expect the government not to act.

But churches will need help with compliance. Evalister Mugabo, bishop of the Lutheran Church in Rwanda, told Religion News Service that many denominations lack the higher education resources and accreditation to deliver on what the law requires.

Most of the pastors [only] have certificates from local Bible schools, he said. Global missions must look at this as an emergency.
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Headlines on Drudge Report and Breitbart shouted out the dire news: APPLE REGULATES 'HATE'. And, MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE: FACEBOOK APPLE PURGE INFOWARS FOR 'HATE SPEECH.'

Over on Twitter, Paul Joseph Watson, one of the leading contributors to Infowars, raised his voice in protest and warning: "Facebook has permanently BANNED Infowars. For unspecified 'hate speech'. They didn't even tell us what the offending posts were. This sets a chilling precedent for free speech. To all other conservative news outlets - you are next. The great censorship purge has truly begun."

He added, "Whatever you think of Infowars, they're coming for you next."

Now, I've mentioned before that, by and large, I am not a fan of Infowars (although Watson's takedowns of the radical left are often bitingly on target). At the same time, I've stated that YouTube's conflict with Infowars (the precursor to the current attack) should concern us all.

But let's leave Infowars out of the picture for the moment. Let me share with you some recent examples of Facebook and Twitter and YouTube coming against conservative speech. You can draw your own conclusions.

1) Facebook blocks Professor Robert Gagnon. In advance of the controversial Revoice conference, Prof. Gagnon posted some very valid, fair-minded concerns on his Facebook page.

For those of you who don't know Prof. Gagnon, he is a respected academic and is neither a name-caller nor a hate-speaker. His book on homosexuality and the Bible is the most authoritative work of its kind, with endorsements from a wide range of leading scholars.

As a result of his post, which under no balanced evaluation can be considered hateful or discriminatory, he was temporarily blocked by Facebook.

In contrast, Christian-bashing, Bible-hating, God-mocking pages abound on Facebook. (See here and here for a few examples of many.)

2) Facebook does not allow a Christian family organization to boost two of their posts. The Illinois Family Association (IFA) attempted to pay to boost two of their recent posts. The first asked the question, "Will 'Progressives' Affirm Identity of Christ-Followers?"

And the post contained this statement: "In the service of tolerance, comity, and consistency, will 'progressives,'including homo-activists, 'trans'-cultists, and the governmentaccommodate, affirm, and celebrate our identity [as Christians] and protect our right to live in accordance with it?"

After waffling on the issue, Facebook finally informed IFA that they would not be allowed to pay money to advertise this post.

One week later, Facebook informed IFA that they would not be allowed to boost this post, which asked, "Is ANYONE Affected by 'Trans' Deviance?"

The article raised concerns, such as: "Parents are raising babies to have no 'gender identification.' They're concealing their children's sexa fundamental and profoundly meaningful anthropological factfrom family, friends, and even the toddlers themselves." Such speech must not be promoted!

So, Facebook will not allow the IFA to advertise their posts, even to like-minded conservatives.

3) Twitter blocks a conservative for mimicking the tweets of an unblocked, radical leftist. As reported on the Right Scoop, "Sarah Jeong has been a pretty buzzworthy topic this week, even making it onto the Sunday morning talk shows, after a bunch of tweets hating white people and cops were uncovered and her new employer, the New York Times, was very not upset by them.

"On Twitter this weekend, Turning Points USA's Candace Owens tried something. She tweeted the same things that Jeong tweeted, to find out if she would be punished even though Jeong was not."

So, Sarah Jeong, who is guilty of hate speech, got a free pass from Twitter (and the New York Times) for posting horrific comments about white people. Then, to make a point, Candace Owens, a conservative black woman, took Jeong's own words but substituted "Jewish people" for "white people."

And she was totally clear in what she did, adding in the very same tweet: "The above statements are from @nytimes editor @sarahjeong. I simply swapped out the word 'white' for 'Jewish'."

In response, she was temporarily blocked by Twitter, which, as you know, takes hate speech very seriously. (This is a great place for your own sarcastic reply.)

After an uproar of protest against Twitter, her account was quickly reinstated. (Note that Owens did the same thing in another tweet, substituting "black" for "white." Point proved.)

4) YouTube refuses to allow my ministry to advertise one of my videos. We have already documented our battle with YouTube and Google over our video "Can You Be Gay and Christian?"

It would be difficult to approach this controversial subject with a more loving and gracious tone than we did. But because of an aggressive LGBT campaign against the video, YouTube not only demonetized it (which means that regardless of how many times it is viewed, it cannot generate income). YouTube/Google also informed us that we will not be allowed to advertise it  meaning, at our expense, to likeminded viewers. "Thou shalt not advertise biblical content that offends!"

(If you haven't watched the video yet, please do, and give it a thumbs up. This helps combat the LGBT activists who have swarmed the video with hateful comments and with thumbs down responses.)

What, then, should we make of this? What of the fact that radical-leftist, highly-bigoted groups like the SPLC are helping these internet giants make their decisions?

Let me repeat what I said in my earlier article about Infowars: Whether you're an Infowars fan or you find their work distasteful, their potential removal from YouTube should concern you.

Otherwise, soon enough, we'll have our own version of Martin Niemoller's famous poem, which will now sound something like this:

First they came for Infowars, and I did not speak outbecause I found them offensive.

Then they came for Geller and Spencer, and I did not speak outbecause I found them obnoxious.

Then they came for Prager U, and I did not speak outbecause I found them opinionated.

Then they came for a host of others, and I did not speak outbecause I have my own life to live.

Then they came for meand there was no one left to speak for me.

You have been forewarned.
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The Pope did this week what only the Pope can do, he changed the official position of the Roman Catholic Church through a Papal pronouncement. With the Pope's call in 2016 for the global abolition of capital punishment, the wheels were set in motion to change the official catechism which now declares capital punishment to be "an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person."

Now, before you allow yourself to be lured into a debate about whether or not the Pope is infallible and whether or not the Pope can make pronouncements over nations and people groups who in no way acknowledge God, the Scriptures nor the Church, let us celebrate on three fronts:

The world is asking today, "What does the Bible say about capital punishment?" The 10 commandments are going to be read aloud and those who agree with the Pope are going to make public reference to Matthew 5:17, John 5:39, Luke 24:27 and Romans 12:19. They are going to talk about Jesus. In conversation with those texts, those Christians who believe capital punishment is expressly authorized by God through the Scriptures are going to reference Genesis 9:6 and Romans 13:1-7. Think about that for a moment in terms of the content of our cultural conversations. This is an opportunity for Christians to talk about God  and those made in His image, human beings  as moral beings who are morally accountable. It is an opportunity to talk about justice  eternal and temporal. It is an opportunity to talk about the principles at work in the Kingdom of Heaven and advocate for their implementation here and how in the midst of the kingdoms of the earth. That's what Ambassadors do and that is who we are.

Second, the language of the updated Catechism of the Church says capital punishment is "an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person." What does that mean? It means that every human life  from conception to natural death and throughout eternity  has intrinsic value, dignity and worth. And that no one person or group of people is in a position to take the life of another, no matter how much better, more significant, or valuable we think we are. This leads us to conversations about how criminals are be treated and it also opens up conversations about the uniqueness of human life and the culture of death.

Third, conversations about punishment are ultimately conversations about justice. What is justice? Who is in a position to condemn? Christians will recognize here the opportunity to talk about God as the giver of life, the giver of the law, and the One who sits in ultimate judgement. This conversation necessarily includes recognition and confession about the systemic injustice in the American system. Christians have real work to do in the real world to see to it that liberty and justice are really for all.

Getting to the crux of the matter

The Pope's position is built on the Commandment "thou shalt not kill." If taken as an absolute, what do we do with other commandments in the Mosaic law which outline the circumstances in which people are cut off not only from the community but whose lives are required as a consequence of sin? The crucifixion of Jesus, an exercise of capital punishment by the Roman government, is understood as the working out of God's eternal redemptive plan. Was it unjust and unjustified? Yes. Was it also God's will in order that the power of sin in life and the penalty of sin in death might be eternally satisfied? Yes. Justification through that which was the most unjust  even death on a cross  is the very crux of the matter.

We live in a fallen world where people do horrible things to one another. When Paul writes to the Christians in Rome that God has empowered the government to wield the sword he does so knowing that Christians are dying in Rome every day by that sword. So, it turns out, will he. But that unjust use of power does not change the reality that the state wields the sword to carry out justice, restrain evil, and if necessary, carry out capital punishment. The penalty of sin is death and while Jesus has paid that penalty once and for all, not all yet bow the knee to His authority, rule as Lord, nor reign over life here and now. In the meantime  and the mean time is mean  there are governments, rulers, principalities and powers. They do not all wield the sword justly, but they do wield the sword nonetheless.

Conversations about capital punishment Christians need to have with fellow believers, with our non-believing neighbors and with the powers that be in this generation:

We need to talk about morality, law, justice and from where and whom these ideas and ideals are derived. Guilt, innocence, confession, repentance, restitution, the debt to society, deterrent, and justice must each be discussed  brining the eternal to bear on the everyday.

We need to talk about the legitimate role of the state in carrying out justice and restraining evil. Here we must also talk about the reality of injustice  individual and systemic. We cannot have a conversation about capital punishment in the context of America without very honest conversations about its misuse in our own history.

We need to get to the conversation about sin and its consequences  and the concern for those who are sinned against. What is the just penalty for the sin of murder, mass murder, or the slaughter of innocents? If capital punishment is never justified, under any circumstances, how then shall we live  and who shall have to live with, care for and financially supply for  the Hitlers of the world? Certainly God says "vengeance is mine," but not everyone is operating as if God even exists, let alone that God will bring about justice for all.

Bringing Scripture to bear, we must talk about wages of sin  which is death. Christians understand that every person, in every time and place, stands condemned of a capital offense against God's glory and will. We also understand this penalty is paid by Christ, propitiation is accomplished, the debt is paid, the curse broken, the wrath satisfied. But again, we are not living in a global theocracy. While we acknowledge that the Kingdom of God is instituted by the risen Christ, we also recognize that we do not live in the day promised in Philippians when every knee will bow, in Heaven and on Earth and under the earth, and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. We yet await that day when the kingdoms of this world will all bow to the Kingdom of our Christ. Until that day, God allows thieves to die on crosses  and even to them He offers the grace of salvation and the promise of paradise.

Which brings us to a conversation about the Cross, which is the crux of the matter. The reality of false accusation, false imprisonment, wrongful convictions and the grossly unjust execution of innocent people takes us right to the experience of Jesus. Why did He intentionally set His face toward Jerusalem where He knew and forecast that He would suffer and die  and where He fantastically promised to rise again? Who is this Jesus? Where is He now? What is He doing? How does the fact that Jesus is Lord of my life influence my view of life itself? How do I see the world and the kingdoms of this world differently because I am Ambassador of the Kingdom of Heaven? How am I bringing the principles of that Kingdom to bear right here, right now, in this conversation? Might this be one way God is answering the oft prayed prayer, "Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven?"

There are many conversations about the Pope, papal pronouncements and the moral authority of the Roman Catholic Church you will want to avoid today. But the fact that the world is having conversations about the dignity of human life, the penalty for sin, and the finality of death, gives Christians the opportunity to get God back into the conversation.

Originally posted at The Reconnect.
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Our Dear Fellow Americans Who Pray For America,

Please join us in praying for America continually. The need has never been greater in our lifetime. All Christ-followers need to be crying out to God for America continually.

While I have never seen more prayer for America taking place in my lifetime, I have never seen greater spiritual warfare taking place throughout America. May I remind you that battles are won in prayer! Therefore, pray!

Call upon thousands of churches, pastors, and Christians to join us in praying in agreement for these three priorities for America. We place these topics before you humbly. Please join us in prayer daily, weekly, or regularly for these three priorities in August of 2018.

PRAYER POINT #1: GIVE COMPLETE CLARITY OF GOD'S WILL RELATING TO THE CONFIRMATION OF THE PRESIDENT'S NOMINEE, BRETT KAVANAUGH, AS THE NEXT ASSOCIATE JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES.

"Mankind, he has told each of you what is good and what it is the Lord requires of you: to act justly, to love faithfulness, and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8

Oh God, the United States Supreme Court is in deep need of any new member of the court to be a justice who believes in a strong accountability to God for their actions and to act justly, love faithfulness, and walk humbly with God personally.

Sovereign Lord of Hosts, since You channel the hearts of leaders, we pray for God's will relating to Brett Kavanaugh as the next Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. Lord, if You have chosen Him for this role, may he be confirmed. If not, then raise up who You want.

Lord, in this divisive political climate in America, we pray with confidence for You alone to work through the members of the United States Senate to make clear Your will relating to this nominee or others in the future. Furthermore, we ask You boldly Lord, to raise up justices for our Supreme Court as well as raise up other judges on the various levels of influence in our entire justice system who will believe in: Personal accountability to God Rule by the law, not by preference Administration of justice impartially and fairly Security of the dignity of every human life Protection of religious liberty given by God and additional liberties extended to Americans by our constitution



PRAYER PRIORITY #2: GIVE DR. RONNIE FLOYD AND THE ENTIRE TEAM OF THE NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER TASK FORCE YOUR CLEAR DIRECTION AND LEADERSHIP FOR THE 2019 NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER ON THURSDAY, MAY 2.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; in all your ways know him, and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

Lord, grant leadership and direction on Monday, August 6, in an all-day staff meeting with Dr. Floyd and the National Day of Prayer Task Force staff team, being held in Northwest Arkansas.

Father, give Your wisdom and direction to the National Day of Prayer Task Force Board of Directors Retreat on August 21-23, held in Northwest Arkansas.

Sovereign God, give Dr. Floyd and the team Your clear direction for the theme for the 2019 National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 2.

Lord, draw hundreds of people to attend the National Leadership Summit of the National Day of Prayer on October 29-30, held this year in Northwest Arkansas. This is a time to engage anyone in leadership on the local level and national level. (If you'd like more information or to register, go to nationaldayofprayer.org/leadershipsummit2018)

Father, lead people to give financial support now to the ongoing ministry of the National Day of Prayer Task Force.

PRAYER PRIORITY #3: ANSWER THE PRAYERS OF GOD'S PEOPLE ACROSS AMERICA AND THE WORLD WHO CRY OUT TO GOD FOR OUR AMERICA CONTINUALLY.

"Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and incomprehensible things you do not know." Jeremiah 33:3

Lord, we call out to You for our nation: Please do great and incomprehensible things right now across our country that will wake up the churches of America and begin a mighty spiritual move of God across our nation.

God, we also cry out to You for the future of our nation relating to the critical issues before us today:

Policy and actions relating to Russia, North Korea, and other nations who have threatened America in various ways.



Financial policy and continual tax reform that forwards the family unit as well as business in America.



Credibility of elected and appointed leaders in American politics.



Religious liberty nationally and internationally.



Andrew Brunson, an American pastor in Turkey, is now under house arrest and faces a trial in October which threatens an additional 35 years in prison. God, we praise You for his release from prison and cry out to You for a might breakthrough in Pastor Brunson's case right now.



Father, as thousands upon thousands of people cry out to the Lord on the historic day of September 11, we pray for the security and protection of our entire nation. Oh God, be our shield of protection.

Originally posted at ronniefloyd.com
Crude closed at the highest in a week after Saudi Arabian production cuts heightened concerns about tightening worldwide supplies.

As Bloomberg writes in the article Crude advances after Saudi restraint sparks renewed supply fears, futures in New York advanced 0.8 percent on Monday. OPECs largest producer curbed output last month, according to OPEC delegates, despite Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih pledge to add about 1 million barrels to forestall any shortages. Labor strikes also resumed in the North Sea, fueling worries about an additional supply hitch.

Reports that the Saudi output in July had dropped, seemed to catch a bid in the market, said Gene McGillian, manager of market research at Tradition Energy. The U.S. benchmark crude hasnt recovered from a July retreat triggered by the U.S.-China trade spat that imperiled demand for energy in the worlds biggest economies. Despite Saudi Arabia reducing oil output last month, investors are waiting for clearer indications of the global supply situation after Russias largest oil producer said it has the capacity to continue lifting production.

Are we going to continue to see strong demand growth and only the barrels that the Russians and Saudis put on really making up for what is lost through Iran and Venezuela? said McGillian. That continues to point towards a tight fundamental picture.

West Texas Intermediate crude for September delivery rose 52 cents to settle at $69.01 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Total volume traded was about 38 percent below the 100-day average. Brent for October settlement added 54 cents to end the session at $73.75 on the London-based ICE Futures Europe exchange. The global benchmark crude traded at a $5.81 premium to WTI for the same month. Meanwhile, the strengthening U.S. dollar eroded some of crudes rally during the session. The Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index rose as much as 0.3 percent.

Saudi Arabia pumped 10.3 million barrels a day in July, according to the delegates, down from the 10.489 million the kingdom reported to the cartel for June.

Saudi Arabia may be having a hard time getting the marginal barrel out of the sand, said Bill OGrady, chief market strategist at Confluence Investment Management LLC in St. Louis. The decrease in output might not have been intentional, he said. Meanwhile, the Trump administration moved to restore some U.S. sanctionson Iran and reaffirmed plans to impose tougher penalties on the Islamic Republics oil sales in November. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised address that Iran is open to talks with the U.S., but not under sanctions.
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Much has happened recently for which pro-lifers should be both grateful and encouraged, but there's so much work left to do.

You could forgive pro-lifers for feeling hopeful these days, and maybe even a little giddy. With Justice Anthony Kennedy's retirement from the Supreme Court, and the President's nomination of Brett Kavanaugh, Roe v. Wade's days could be numbered.

Or not. If Chuck Colson was right that Supreme Court justices read the newspapers just like the rest of us, we have reason for pause.

According to a recent NBC/Wall Street Journal poll, support for Roe v. Wade is at its highest level since the poll was first taken in 2005.

Seventy-one percent of those polled say they do not believe the decision should be overturned. Only 23 percent say it should be.

Of course, it's no surprise that 88 percent of those who identify as Democrats don't want Roe reversed. That party long ago became the party of abortion. But get this: 52 percent of the Republicans surveyed think Roe shouldn't be reversed. In fact, only 39 percent of Republicans surveyed said they do want to get rid of Roe.

This despite the fact that poll after poll has shown that younger Americans are more pro-life than their elders, that most Americans support real and significant restrictions on abortion, and that the majority of Americans say that abortion "goes against" their personal beliefs.

What explains this apparent dichotomy? Simply put, the forces of relativism have carried the day in modern American life. In fact, our cultural underpinnings are so deeply and thoroughly rooted in moral relativism, that many simply cannot admit that what "is wrong for me" is just flat out "wrong."

If abortion is wrong because killing an innocent human being is wrong, then it's wrong for you, wrong for me, wrong for everyone. But if you don't believe right and wrong are grounded in universal, unchanging moral truths, then morality becomes a matter of mere preference which we ought not impose on anyone else.

Sound moral reasoning is not only absent these days; it's anathema. Being "personally against" abortion still leaves room to a) not make it illegal for everyone else and b) not look like a meanie.

This is why, even as we hope and pray for the confirmation of Judge Kavanaugh, we simply cannot rely on politics or courts to end the scourge of abortion in America.

Even if Roe were overturned, and please, God, may it be overturned, it does not spell the end of abortion in America. We've talked about this before, but the ready availability of abortifacient drugs and the fact that overturning Roe would throw the matter to the states means that the fight for life goes on.

And the principal battleground will be, as it always has been, the human heart and mind. That requires us to argue for moral absolutes  that abortion is not just a matter of preference, but a matter of life and death. Our goal is that abortion becomes not just illegal, but unthinkable.

To do so, our words must be accompanied by deeds. As we remain engaged in the political arena, we must re-double our efforts in the culture: supporting pregnancy care centers through our donations, prayers, and volunteer hours; opening church doors to unwed mothers, supporting them and their babies spiritually, physically, and emotionally; opening our hearts and homes to caring for children in need of care and adoption.

And it means we have to make the case for life with our friends and neighbors: read good books about the sanctity of human life. Learn the arguments and tactics. And support groups making the case for life in tough arenas  especially those like Students for Life, who are teaching young adults to be pro-life advocates on college campuses.

And, you should know that one of the truly great apologists for the sanctity of human life, Stephanie Gray, will be joining my Colson Center colleague Warren Cole Smith for a free webinar, Monday August 6. She trains Christians to make the case for life with courage and compassion. Again, the webinar is absolutely free. And you can register at BreakPoint.org.

Originally posted at Breakpoint.


Galoa Village headman Josefa Baleinasiga said the ban was enforced so that the islanders could learn to respect the significance of Sunday as a holy day, he told the Fiji Times.

Mr Baleinasiga said the Methodist Church and the vanua also decided to impose the ban as a means of bringing good fortune to the people. The vanua is an essential concept of indigenous Fijian culture and society which encompasses a number of inter-related meanings by which the Fijians identified themselves with.

"The ban is meant to bring good luck to the island as we respect the day of the Lord," he said.

"You can see that often misfortune befalls us because we don't respect His commandments that there be no work performed on Sunday except worship.

"Before our islanders used to go diving on Sunday, and there was a lot of travelling and it was difficult to separate the days all the days were the same.

"Now on Saturdays the clothes line in the village is full as the villagers know they can't hang anything out on Sunday."

As a mark of respect, men can only wear a traditional sarong 'sulu or sulu vakataga' on the day; travelling by outboard from the island is not recommended.

"But we make exceptions during emergencies for the sick so it's not a ban that hasn't been well thought out," Mr Baleinasiga said.

A villager who requested anonymity said the ban was too restrictive because it limited movement. "We can't understand how wearing a sulu vakataga on Sunday will help us forge closer relations with the divine," he said.

The Methodist Church, the biggest and most influential church in Fiji is inseparably linked to Fijian culture and society; over 80 percent indigenous Fijians are members of the Church.

The all-powerful Fiji Methodist Church which counts 329,759 members out of a little less than a million Fijians estimated population has not responded officially to the new rule imposed by the village head in Bua island.
'All things work together for good'  but a ruptured appendix?

Two weeks ago my appendix decided to rupture. It was completely unexpected and for a few days threw my life into chaos.

It happened just as I was entering one of the busiest times of my whole year. I was about to spend the weekend co-hosting a new Christian-led festival, CODA, for which I had invested hours of time working with the team to make it happen. I was also due to speak three times at one of the UK's biggest Christian festivals, New Wine United, I had an appointment with the Archbishop of Wales (always a treat) and I was going to be leading a workshop at the Church In Wales' new training institute, St Padarn's. I was extremely excited about all these things and looking forward to making a contribution to them.

Many of my lovely and well-meaning Christian friends suggested my illness was God's way of slowing me down and causing me to rest. I'm not really sure how I feel about that. First, I wasn't feeling anxious or stressed, just looking forward to all these opportunities. Second, being ill and subsequently recovering didn't involve much rest. I was operated on, poked and prodded and given IV drugs frequently  sleep was sporadic because of the discomfort and being in hospital for five days was not conducive to resting well. I was so poorly for a few days that the idea that it was God's plan was not endearing me to my Creator.

There is a verse, Romans 8:28, that often gets used as a consolation verse but mostly is used out of context: 'And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.' It is probably one of the most quoted verses in the New Testament. As Christians, we often use this verse to give each other solace, interpreting it to mean that everything will turn out all right in the end. In our eagerness to encourage and comfort we offer the false optimism of movie make-believe.

But for so many of us, this is rarely if ever true. Life is hard, cruel, unexpected and unexplainable. Being told everything is going to be OK or that God is using this for good, when you are in the middle of excruciating pain, loss and suffering, is often anything other than helpful.

Romans 8 is part of a letter where Paul is writing about living in the power of the Spirit in the midst of suffering. He is teaching that we may not see any good come of our pain and tragedy in our lifetime, but that this isn't the only reality. There is a place and time beyond our imagination that is more real than what we currently experience. Everything that happens in this mortal realm is working towards that ultimate destination.

I've also discovered that God appears to allow our lives to unfold as they do for two reasons: first, to help us to restore our broken relationship with him and second, to make us more like Jesus. The ultimate good in any situation is for us to end up resembling the Son of God and for us to be in relationship with him.

When my first marriage ended 17 years ago I remember pleading with God to bring good out of the situation. I didn't want the awfulness of what I was experiencing to be pain for pain's sake, I wanted something good to be produced. At the time, I thought that would mean my marriage being restored, but it wasn't. God's good did come about, but it came about in me, not in my circumstances. My marriage ending and the ensuing years were filled with excruciating pain and loss. In the world's eyes, my situation was pretty dreadful. But the miracle did happen and God did bring his good. It was worked out in my character: I became less selfish, less me-focused, more empathetic, tolerant, kind and loving. I became more self-aware, able to work on my weaknesses and develop my strengths. I would probably have never chosen to go through everything I did  but I am so thankful I did.

So what about my bout of unexpected appendicitis? What good came out of that? Initially I couldn't see anything  I was angry, frustrated and bitterly disappointed that I couldn't do what I wanted to do. And then I prayed. I prayed that God would bring his good out of my frustration and disappointment and as always, he didn't disappoint. He showed me that my reasons for wanting to do all those things were a little off. My motives weren't as pure as they should be. I was wanting to do them more for me than him. I realised I had got caught up in my own abilities and my own strengths. My driving force was self-gratification and pride.

I recovered sufficiently well to make one of the Christian festivals, New Wine United, and I just may have preached one of the best talks I have ever preached and led one of the best seminars I've ever led. God's good blossomed in me. I stood up to speak with thrush in my mouth because of the antibiotics I was still taking, pain in my side where my appendix had been removed and pretty washed out because I had been through a trauma, but I glowed with God's goodness, love and gifting. I spoke his words and he came and touched people's lives because my motives had changed.

So perhaps my well-meaning friends aren't too wrong when they say that God may have let this happen. Yes: in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose  just not always in the way we might expect.

Mandy Bayton is The Cinnamon Network adviser for Wales and a freelance writer. Follow her on Twitter @mandyebayton
Christian aid agency World Vision responds to Indonesia earthquake

International aid agency World Vision is responding to the 7-magnitude earthquake which struck Indonesia's Lombok Island on Sunday.

The death toll topped 100 on Tuesday as rescuers found victims under wrecked buildings, while thousands left homeless in the worst-affected areas waited for aid to arrive.

'Many people have been forced to flee their homes because of the numerous aftershocks,' said Margaretha Siregar of World Vision Indonesia.

'World Vision has already got equipped and trained staff in the field conducing initial assessments to identify the immediate needs of the affected displaced children and their families. We will continue to mobilise the response with local partners and plan to focus on child protection, clean water, sanitation and hygiene and making sure children have access to education in the aftermath of the crisis,' she said.

A woman was pulled alive from the rubble of a collapsed grocery store in the north, near the epicentre of Sunday's 6.9 magnitude quake, the second tremor to rock the tropical island in a week.

That was a rare piece of good news as hopes of finding more survivors faded and a humanitarian crisis loomed for thousands left homeless by the disaster in the rural area and in desperate need of clean water, food, medicine and shelter.

Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, the spokesman of Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency (BNPB) put the toll at 105, including two on the neighbouring island of Bali to the west, where the quake was also felt  and the figure was expected to rise.

Approximately one million people live near the epicentre and there have been more than 100 aftershocks. The BNPB stated that the number of victims is expected to increase.

The earthquake is the second to strike the region in recent days. A 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck Lombok Island on July 29, killing 16 people and injuring hundreds more.

'World Vision distributed over 360 tarps on Saturday, the day before the magnitude-6.9 earthquake hit, because many people have already been staying outside after the first earthquake last week. After yesterday's earthquake, that need for emergency shelter has significantly increased, especially as these aftershocks continue,' Siregar said.

Sunday's earthquake was felt in Bali, Sumbawa and Surabaya. The overall impact is still under assessment.

There has been little government relief for the area, where the greatest need is for water and food, as underground water sources have been blocked by the quake and shops destroyed or abandoned.

About 75 per cent of the north has been without electricity since Sunday, officials said, and some communities were hard to reach because bridges were damaged and trees, rocks and sand lay across roads cracked wide open in places by the tremor.

Aid agency Oxfam said it was providing clean drinking water and tarpaulin shelters to 5,000 survivors, but the need was much greater, with more than 20,000 estimated to have been displaced.'Thousands ... are under open skies in need of drinking water, food, medical supplies, and clothes,' it said in a statement. 'Clean drinking water is scarce due to the extremely dry weather.'

Thousands of tourists have left Lombok since Sunday evening, fearing further earthquakes, some on extra flights added by airlines and some on ferries to Bali.

Officials said about 4,600 foreign and domestic tourists had been evacuated from the three Gili islands off the northwest coast of Lombok, where two people died and fears of a tsunami spread soon after the quake.

World Vision has opened an Indonesian earthquake fund.

Addtional reporting by Reuters.
Three real estate agents at a Danville firm were among the five people killed when a small plane crashed in a Southern California parking lot, authorities said Monday.

The Orange County coroners office said those killed in crash Sunday were Lara Shepherd, 42, and Scott Shepherd, 53, of Diablo; Floria Hakimi, 62, of Danville; Navid Hakimi, 32, of Los Angeles; and Nasim Ghanadan, 29, of Alamo.

Scott Shepherd was the pilot, officials said.

The plane, a twin-engine Cessna 414, took off from Concords Buchanan Field and was headed to John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana when it crashed at 12:28 p.m. about a mile short of the runway in a shopping center parking lot.

Video showed the plane plunging virtually straight down into the parking lot. No one on the ground was hurt. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the cause of the crash.

Three of the victims  Floria Hakimi, Lara Shepherd and Ghanadan  were real estate agents for Pacific Union in Danville, according to the company. Scott Shepherd was Laras husband and a real estate developer in the Bay Area, and Navid Hakimi was Florias son, according to a statement from Pacific Union.

Roya Winner, a friend of the Hakimi family, said Floria Hakimi treated everybody like family. She just was truly remarkable and gracious and kind and loving ... and that was contagious.

Winner said Hakimi was the no-brainer choice to be her real-estate agent when Winner moved back to the Bay Area because we knew she would be honest and have integrity.

But Hakimi was more than her agent, Winner said. She was a friend and the first person outside her family whom Winner told she was pregnant.

She took us on like a mama bear, Winner said. She was a friend to my family and so many people in the community.

Winner said Hakimi was prominent in the local Iranian American community. She supported several causes, including Mothers Against Poverty, Operation Smile and Families Without Borders, according to her agent profile.

She lived life with passion and grace and love, Winner said.

Hakimis son, who went by Navid Izadi, was a San Francisco-based DJ, producer and vocalist, according to Billboard. It said Hakimi was a member of Wolf + Lamb and Soul Clap musical collectives.

Floria Hakimis co-worker Ghanadan was the heart of our family, said her sister, Nazanin Ghanadan.

I mean, full of life, full of laughter, she said through tears.

She was the biggest people person, Ghanadan said. She loved helping people buy their dream home and make a home for themselves.

Nasim Ghanadan loved to dance and travel and took a special interest in children, her sister said. She taught young people to read and write Farsi, was a Persian dance instructor, and did volunteer work with children in Guatemala.

Nazanin Ghanadan said her sister was always the one to prompt relatives to dance at family gatherings.

She just always wanted to bring people together, she said.

Lara Shepherds Pacific Union profile described her as a mother of two, a third-generation real-estate professional and an active member of community fundraising and youth programs.

On Sundays flight, Scott Shepherd spoke with an air traffic coordinator just before the crash and had been cleared for landing, said a spokesman for the National Transportation Safety Board.

This type of communication is typically the last before a plane touches down, spokesman Peter Knudson said. A short time later, however, the Cessnas pilot declared an emergency but didnt explain the nature of it, Knudson said.

Knudson said the safety board will release a preliminary report within the next two weeks and a full report in one to two years.

Investigators will look into whether the plane had mechanical problems and will examine the pilots flight experience, medical history and 72-hour timeline before the flight, among other factors, Knudson said.

We start with every possibility on the table, and eliminate them if they didnt play a role, Knudson said.

Megan Cassidy and Michael Cabanatuan are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: megan.cassidy@sfchronicle.com, mcabanatuan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @meganrcassidy, @ctuan
Fortress BeerWorks has leased a 6,620-square-foot space at 2606 Spring Cypress Road in Spring for a craft brewery to open this fall. The brewery, co-owned by head brewer Dion Billard, expects to be open Thursday through Sunday at the outset, and will partner with local food trucks. Chris Caudill of NAI Partners represented the brewery. Thomas Leger and Chase Cribbs of Lee & Associates represented landlords Blake Vincent and Richard Werner.

Flying Biscuit Cafe has leased 3,087 square feet in The Shops at Memorial City, 12389 Kingsride Drive, for its first Houston location. Brett Levinson with Weitzman represented the landlord. David J. Littwitz with Littwitz Investments represented the restaurant, which will open later this year. A second Houston location is set for 2019. Founded in Atlanta in 1993, there are 17 Flying Biscuit locations.
Piglets, llamas and countless other domesticated animals have been rescued from a massive duo of wildfires burning in Mendocino and Lake counties.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) joined members of Lake County Care and Control to rescue and shelter more than 2,500 animals displaced by the Mendocino Complex fire, considered the second-largest wildfire in state history as of Monday.

Responders from both agencies are checking individual residences for pets or livestock left behind, and conducting wellness checks to provide food and water at the behest of pet owners.

Those wishing to report lost pets or request rescues can contact Lake County Animal Care & Control at (707) 263-0278.

"The wildfires in Northern California are putting pets and their owners in tremendous risk, and we're proud to support Lake County Animal Care & Control to help rescue and care for those animals," said Matt Bershadker, President and CEO of the ASPCA, in a statement.

Displaced animals are sheltered in a 30-foot trailer specifically designed to house a variety of animals in emergencies. Follow-up teams will later assist in relocation of the rescued animals.

The ASPCA also stepped up to save animals threatened by last year's North Bay Fires. In total, the organization rescued more than 37,000 animals displaced by disasters in 2017.

The Mendocino Complex fires have scorched 428 square miles and burned 75 homes. Officials say the fires threaten 9,000 buildings and ordered additional evacuations over the weekend. The blaze is expected to surpass the largest California wildfire on record, which burned 440 square miles in December.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Read Michelle Robertson's latest stories and send her news tips at mrobertson@sfchronicle.com.

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The relentless wall of flame north of Clear Lake known as the Mendocino Complex grew into the largest fire in California history, outpacing 15 other conflagrations that blanketed the skies with smoke, state fire officials said Monday.

The monstrous Ranch and River fires, which started northeast of Ukiah and near Hopland, combined into a single incident called a complex. The Mendocino Complex scorched 283,800 acres in Mendocino, Lake and Colusa counties as of Monday, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire.

It is part of an unprecedented series of large, deadly and destructive fires that have raged through California in 2017 and 2018, exposing astonished firefighting crews to things rarely if ever seen before, including pyro-cumulus clouds reaching into the stratosphere and powerful fire tornadoes.

The good news Monday was that the Mendocino Complex, which started July 27 and was 30 percent contained, moved north through largely uninhabited areas toward Glenn County, according to Cal Fire.

That was little comfort to firefighters considering that the volatile blaze blew up in the past, gobbling up 55,000 acres on Saturday alone. It wrested the ignominious title of largest fire in California from the Thomas Fire, which burned more than 281,000 acres in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties last year.

Thats indicative of how explosive the fire conditions are right now, said Jonathan Cox, the Northern California battalion chief for Cal Fire. You are talking about hundreds of miles of open fire line in the remote, steep inaccessible areas, which are the most difficult to grab containment in.

More than 14,000 firefighters were battling flames across the state on Monday. Four of the 10 most destructive fires and five of the 20 deadliest fires in recorded state history have occurred in 2017 and 2018.

Cox said the state has experienced higher temperatures day and night, and less rain and snow, which, in turn, has resulted in dried vegetation.

Over half of the most deadly and destructive and large fires in California have occurred over the past 10 years, Cox said.  Were looking at long-term trends that are alarming for us, especially how quickly they are burning and how much damage they are causing and how deadly they are. It would not be an overstatement to say this is unprecedented.

The other major fires burning Monday in California were:

The Carr Fire, near Redding, consumed 164,413 acres and was 47 percent contained as of Monday. It was burning northward through steep, mountainous terrain with heavy timber along the Shasta-Trinity county line. The fire, which started July 23, has killed six people and a seventh person, a PG&E lineman, died in a crash while restoring power to the area. More than 1,000 residences have burned. It is the sixth most destructive, 13th most deadly and 12th largest fire in California history.

The Ferguson Fire burned 94,331 acres and was 39 percent contained as of Monday. It forced the evacuation of Yosemite National Park, where smoke was still blotting out the sun. Park officials indefinitely extended closures of Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and the Mariposa and Merced redwood groves. The parks three western entrances  highways 120, 140 and 41 were closed. However, the vast northern part of the park, including Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Pass, was open.

The Donnell Fire along the Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River burned 11,074 acres and was just 2 percent contained as of Monday. The fire, which shut down Highway 108 at Sonora Pass, destroyed much of the Dardanelle Resort. The owners of the historical store, restaurant and cabins announced on Facebook that they had suffered massive structural damage.

The Eel Fire, 10 miles east of Covelo, in Mendocino County, was 60 percent contained with 972 acres burned on Monday. U.S. Forest Service fire managers lifted all evacuation advisories in the region Monday.

Meanwhile, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District extended an air quality advisory through Thursday as a result of smoke from the Mendocino Complex fire and other wildfires. The district said Spare the Air alerts could be called midweek if air quality exceeds federal standards.

Staff writer Kurtis Alexander contributed to this story.

Peter Fimrite and Michael Cabanatuan are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: pfimrite@sfchronicle.com, mcabanatuan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @pfimrite, @ctuan
A kidnapping victim is safe as police search for a suspect accused of demanding a ransom for his safe return Monday in southeast Houston, police said.

Houston police were called to a hostage situation at 6:45 p.m. at Jack In the Box at Cullen Boulevard and South Sam Houston Tollway, according to Houston Police Department Sgt. Travis Williamson.

Three people allegedly kidnapped a woman's son and called her demanding $4,000 for the son's safe return, Williamson said.

The mother called 911 and said she was on her way to the fast food to confront the abductors.

PUNISHMENT PHASE: Sisters and sons say honor killing defendant is loyal and generous

When police arrived, they found an SUV with the hostage inside, Williamson said. But the vehicle took off and police started pursuing for about 20 minutes.

The suspect's vehicle crashed into a lawn on South Groveton Street in the South Acres neighborhood.

Three people fled the vehicle on foot, Williamson said. The driver, a female, and a male passenger were almost immediately taken into custody.

One other suspect remains at large.

The hostage was safely recovered unharmed.

Text CHRON to 77453 to receive breaking news alerts by text message.

Jay R. Jordan covers breaking news in the Houston area. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @JayRJordan | Email him at jay.jordan@chron.com
North Korean state media on Monday urged the United States to drop sanctions, as South Korea said it was investigating nine cases of coal shipments that potentially violated U.N. resolutions. As Reuters writes in an article "North Korea urges U.S. to drop sanctions as Seoul probes illicit coal shipments", Pyongyang had demonstrated good faith by ending nuclear weapons testing and returning the remains of U.S. troops killed in the 1950-53 Korean War, and the resolutions had lost a reason to exist, said the Rodong Sinmun, a mouthpiece of the ruling Workers Party.

The statements came days after a confidential United Nations report concluded that North Korea had not halted nuclear and missile programmes, in breach of U.N. resolutions, and continued illegal trade in oil, coal and other commodities. South Korea is examining nine cases in which coal from North Korea disguised as Russian products was possibly brought in, Seouls foreign ministry and customs officials said. They declined to detail the number of ships or identify the companies involved, saying the investigation was in the final phase following raids and forensic analysis, but some cases might prove lawful.

North Korea and the United States vowed to work to end Pyongyangs weapons programmes at a landmark summit in June in Singapore, but have struggled to reach a pact to meet that goal. The Rodong Sinmun accused Washington of acting opposite to its plan to improve ties, despite goodwill gestures by Pyongyang, such as a moratorium on nuclear and missile tests, the dismantling of a nuclear site, and the return of the remains of U.S. soldiers killed in the Korean War. There have been outrageous arguments coming out of the U.S. State Department that it wont ease sanctions until a denuclearisation is completed, and reinforcing sanctions is a way to raise its negotiating power, it said in an editorial. How could the sanctions, which were a stick the U.S. administration had brandished as part of its hostile policy against us, promote the two countries amity?

The editorial, which accompanied front-page articles and photographs of leader Kim Jong Uns visit to a catfish farm, was a fresh sign of Pyongyangs frustration over the slow-moving nuclear talks. Under President Donald Trump, the United States pushed the United Nations to impose tough sanctions on North Korea as Kim conducted a string of missile and nuclear tests last year.

At a security forum on Saturday, the two sides sparred over the Singapore pact, with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo calling for sanctions against Pyongyang to be maintained, and his North Korean counterpart, Ri Yong Ho, criticising Washington for retreating from ending the war. Pompeo suggested the Norths continued work on its weapons programmes was inconsistent with Kims commitment to denuclearise, but expressed optimism it would be achieved. Returning to Washington, Pompeo played down the exchange with Ri, saying the tone was far different from last year. The minister made very clear of their continued commitment to denuclearize, Pompeo told reporters travelling with him. I probably dont have his words exactly right, but its pretty close. Compare the anger, frankly, over years and years, and hatred, as spewed by the North Koreans; his comments were different.



North Koreas propaganda websites on Monday also urged the United States to drop sanctions and build trust. One of them, Uriminzokkiri, lambasted the sanctions and pressure campaign as anachronistic and a hurdle to better relations, urging efforts to officially declare an end to the Korean War. The Korean War ended in an armistice, not a peace treaty, leaving the U.S.-led United Nations forces, including South Korea, technically still at war with the North. The State Department has said it is committed to building a peace mechanism to replace the armistice, but only after the North abandons its nuclear programme.



Maeri, another North Korean website, stressed the need for U.S. action to build confidence in response to the Norths moves to end weapons programmes and send back the remains. It takes two to tango, it said.
Police are looking for a man who rammed an officer's patrol SUV Monday night after a pursuit in northwest Houston.

The officer was not injured in the incident that began at an apartment complex in the 8600 block of Pitner Road when a security intervened in an argument between a man and a woman, according to Houston Police Department Lt. Larry Crowson.
The Ned Lamont and Joe Ganim debate on Tuesday included a feisty, televised confrontation in which the Bridgeport mayor portrayed himself as a can-do public official, while the Greenwich businessman said hes the outsider the state needs to turn itself around.

In their last joint appearance before Tuesdays Democratic primary for governor, Ganim again tried to position Lamont, the party-endorsed candidate, as an out-of-touch millionaire who doesnt know the needs of the cities. I dont think its time for on-the-job training when Connecticut is still in a fiscal mess, Ganim punched.

Lamont said Ganims culture of corruption that landed him in federal prison for seven years, derailed the economic development of the states biggest city.

Lamont said since Ganims return to the mayors office, local property taxes have risen nearly 30 percent.

But 14 years of public service, dealing with job creation, is different than being on the sidelines talking about what you might be able to do, said Ganim, who was returned to the Bridgeport mayors office by city voters in 2015.

Its easy for the outsider to say what youre going to do, Ganim said during the debate before a panel of reporters at WFSB Channel 3 studios in Rocky Hill.

Lamont said Ganim initially was in favor of a $10 million study of electronic tolling in Connecticut, then opposed it for political reasons amid a cascade of bipartisan criticism of the expenditure.

After Lamont said he would not support Ganim in the fall election if he somehow wins the primary, Ganim called him a Trump-like scourge and an unloyal Democrat.

Lamont said he would work for other Democratic candidates, particularly in the General Assembly races.

Ive been in there holding the line on taxes, Ganim said, promising property tax relief if he becomes governor. If youre going to ditch the Democratic party, I have a hard time responding or rebutting at any of those comments.

First thing Joe does when he gets re-elected and takes office, after promising not to raise taxes, is increase the mill rate 29 percent, Lamont fired back. This is just politics as usual. I see this on the Republican side of the equation as well.

Ganim revisited an attack made several times on Lamont during this primary campaign, charging that he laid off 70 percent of his cable-TV employees.

That last comment is a lie, Lamont struck back. He knows its a lie. He knows its false, and thats the problem: Its the same old Joe. Lamonts employees were retained by the company that bought a division of his business.

Ganim claimed to have saved Bridgeport from bankruptcy, and that 32,000 people signed the petitions he filed to gain access to the Democratic primary. In fact, Bridgeport was never bankrupt; and about 19,000 petition signatures were validated, while the rest were ruled ineligible by the local voter registrars around the state who reviewed them.

Joe, I think that the people of Bridgeport gave you an amazing opportunity, Lamont said. Given all that happened in your fair city, and when you came back to be elected mayor, I really believe you should honor the commitment they made to you by honoring the commitment you made to them. I would finish that job. Id show that Bridgeport is turning around.

I guess it looks different being in the top 1 percent of the 1 percent, Ganim replied.

kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCT
The most challenging aspect of college life can be actually finding the time to attend classes and ultimately complete a degree. Thats especially true for students who balance work, family and other obligations Monday through Friday.

This fall, the University of Houston-Downtown will roll out two bachelors programs delivered on Saturdays to accommodate those students with weekday commitments. Students can enroll in UHDs Saturday Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences or Bachelor of Business Administration programs. Courses for both undergraduate programs will be offered in UHDs Shea Street Building, home of the Marilyn Davies College of Business.

Saturday degree offerings were developed after consultation with Houston Community College, which delivers weekend associates programs. Students completing HCCs Associate of Applied Science degree can seamlessly transfer into UHDs Saturday BAAS program. Those entering the weekend BBA program are required to have completed 42 hours of core curriculum and six prerequisite courses in math, accounting and economics.

UHDs BAAS (offered through UHDs University College) is designed to prepare students for leadership roles or promotions within their respective industries and disciplines. Coursework addresses human resources, budgeting, administration, project administration and other topics relevant to workforce needs. The BBA program (offered through the Universitys Marilyn Davies College of Business) focuses on general business and prepares students for immediate entry into the business community.

According to Daniel Villanueva, assistant vice president for Enrollment Management, Saturday degrees will allow students to complete 12 hours each semester. Two classes will be delivered during the first eight weeks of the semester and two additional courses will round out the final eight weeks of each session.

Although UHDs Saturday programs were created in conjunction with HCC, they are open to all students who meet the Universitys admissions requirements and have completed the appropriate prerequisite courses.

These weekend degree programs reflect a commitment to student success from both UHD and its community college partners, said Daniel Villanueva Jr., assistant vice president for Enrollment Management. Were responding to the needs of our community and students. Programs, such as UHDs Saturday degrees, complement similar offerings at HCC and Lone Star College to ensure students have opportunities to make a smooth transition from a community college into our University.

Students interested in learning more about UHDs Saturday programs are invited to Gator Preview Day on Thursday, Aug. 2, at the Houston Community College Central Campus (1300 Holman St.) in Room LHSB 100. Information sessions will be conducted 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. During Gator Preview Day, students can meet with academic advisors and learn more about the BAAS and BBA programs. Additional resources at Gator Preview Day also include career advising from UHDs Marilyn College of Davies College of Business Career Development Center. UHDs $50 application fee will be waived for those attending the event.

Students with additional questions on Gator Preview Day, admissions and transfer processes, and other services can contact transfer@uhd.edu or 713-221-5714.
Oil's trading in a tight range as investors weigh falling U.S. inventories and potential supply curbs in the Middle East against escalating trade tensions between the world's two largest economies.

Futures in New York were little changed after a 0.8 percent gain Monday. They have traded within a $3 range so far in August, the tightest spread since 2003 based on monthly data. While expectations for falling U.S. stockpiles during the summer driving season and fears over lower Iranian exports have supported gains, concerns that a trade war between China and American will hurt consumption have kept a lid on prices.

Crude has declined about 7 percent from the highs of June as the trade dispute threatens to imperil economic growth that underpins energy consumption. While Saudi Arabia was said to have cut production last month despite a pledge in June by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies to add more barrels, Russia said it has the capacity to lift output to a post-Soviet record. Meanwhile, the U.S. is seeking to restrict Iranian oil sales via sanctions.

"U.S. crude stockpiles are seen falling as the driving season continues, helping oil hold near $69 a barrel," Will Yun, a commodities analyst at Hyundai Futures Corp., said by phone. "At the same time, oil's being pulled from the other side, with the ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and China putting downward pressure on commodities including oil."

West Texas Intermediate crude for September delivery traded at $69.06 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, up 5 cents, at 12:21 p.m. in Tokyo. The contract rose 52 cents to $69.01 on Monday. Total volume traded was about 52 percent below the 100-day average.

Brent for October settlement traded at $73.99 on the London-based ICE Futures Europe exchange, up 24 cents. The contract added 54 cents to close at $73.75 on Monday. The global benchmark crude traded at a $5.96 premium to WTI for the same month.

Futures for September delivery surged by their 5 percent daily limit against Monday's settlement to 537.2 yuan a barrel on the Shanghai International Energy Exchange, the highest level since the contract's debut in late March.

See also: Oil Market Moving Toward Tightness, Goldman's Della Vigna Says

In the U.S., nationwide crude stockpiles may have dropped by 3 million barrels last week, while inventories in the storage hub at Cushing, Oklahoma, may have declined by 1 million barrels for a twelfth straight week of losses, according to a Bloomberg survey before Energy Information Administration data on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump moved to restore some American sanctions on Iran and reaffirmed plans to impose tougher penalties on the Persian Gulf nation's oil sales in November, further raising concerns over a potential supply shortage. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said his country is open to talks with the U.S., but not under sanctions.

Oil-market news:

Saudi Arabia is sending the most crude oil to the U.S. in 15 months. The world's largest oil exporter loaded 1 million barrels a day onto tankers bound for the U.S. in July, according to preliminary vessel-tracking data compiled by Bloomberg.

Rising costs and dwindling pipeline space have some U.S. oil companies doing what was once unthinkable: saying no to the coveted Permian shale region.

--With assistance from Tsuyoshi Inajima.

2018 Bloomberg L.P.
Blaffer Art Museum director Toby Kamps has resigned less than a year into the University of Houston job to work with one of the worlds leading commercial art galleries. He plans to leave Houston in September to become the director of external projects at Londons White Cube gallery in October.

Kamps praised the Blaffers extraordinary record and potential and said the universitys Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts is a great thing, but he is the second director to exit the institution since it was incorporated into the college a few years ago. The job also included teaching.

His predecessor, Claudia Schmuckli, held the job seven years before leaving to become a curator at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco in 2016. The Blaffer was rudderless for nearly a year.

Kamps move takes him out of the non-profit world where he has worked for nearly 30 years. Hes been a major presence in the Houston museum scene for about a decade, including seven years as a curator at the Menil Collection and several before that as a curator at the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. He came to Houston after stints at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego and the Maine College of Arts Institute of Contemporary Art in Portland.

But he also has wet his feet in the art market, overseeing the Frieze art fairs Spotlight section in New York and London since 2016.

Kamps will lead White Cubes artist relations work, looking for exhibition opportunities in the public sphere around the world, as well as recruiting new talent. That work dovetails with old, old interests that have intrigued him since he wrote his honors thesis decades ago, he said. The gallerys stable includes leading artists such as Anselm Kiefer, Theaster Gates, Mona Hatoum, Robert Irwin, Georg Baselitz and Doris Salcedo.

According to ArtNews, White Cube is expanding globally, recently adding a New York office to its London and Hong Kong operations.

The offer came out of the blue, and things happened very quickly. It was a difficult decision but a fantastic opportunity that makes sense for me and my family, Kamps said. He and his wife, Ina Kamps, have an infant son, Felix, who is not quite five months old.

ArtNews adds Kamps to a wave of museum directors leaving the non-profit world. White Cube nabbed Eric Shiner from Pittsburths Andy Warhol Museum to lead its New York Office. Directors and curators from Paris Centre Pompidoux and the Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland have also recently resigned to join for-profit companies.

Andrew Davis, dean of the McGovern College, said he was thrilled for Kamps, who was instrumental in pointing the Blaffers programming in interesting, compelling new directions that engaged not only with the current contemporary art scene but also with current issues facing our society and our world.

Davis said the college will conduct a national search for its next director.

Kamps first shows for the Blaffer are up through Saturday, including a mesmerizing film trilogy by Anton Vidokle. The museums fall season begins Sept. 7 with shows featuring new digital portraits by Alfred Leslie, inspired by literary characters; and sculpture by Richard Rezak.

molly.glentzer@chron.com
The mother of Jayden Lopez, the 4-year-old Houston boy given the name "Little Jacob" after his unidentified body washed up on a Galveston beach last fall, was indicted for felony child injury by a Galveston County grand jury on Tuesday in connection to his death.

Rebecca Suzanne Rivera, 34, was formally charged with a first-degree felony offense of "injury to a child by omission causing serious bodily injury" and a second-degree felony offense of tampering with physical evidence.

Rivera had admitted to investigators to striking the boy with "whatever I could find," including clothes hangers, according to court filings.

LAID TO REST: Funeral for boy known as 'Little Jacob' held in Houston

She and her girlfriend, Dania Amezquita Gomez, were initially arrested in June on charges of tampering with evidence with the intent to impair a human corpse.

The FBI alleged that the two women, who lived in Houston, traveled to Galveston to dump his body in Galveston Bay. The body was found the next day.

Rivera was being held Tuesday at the Galveston County Jail. A judge set her bail at $250,000. Christopher Henderson, her Houston-based attorney, did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday.

Gomez was also being held at the Galveston County Jail with a bail of $100,000. She faces a misdemeanor charge of tampering with evidence with the intent to impair a human corpse.

Gomez, who is from Mexico, also has an immigration hold. Court records indicate that Gomez was in the custody of the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency in May, but federal authorities did not have any information as to how or why she was detained.

Gomez's court-appointed attorney, Mark Diaz of Galveston, said her criminal case would have to be resolved before any immigration proceedings. Diaz said Gomez believes she signed a voluntary deportation order while she was in ICE custody but he has not yet tracked down that document.

"I'm going to request it in discovery from the state because she does not have any copies of her documents, which likely means law enforcement took it from her when she was then taken in on the state court case," Diaz said.

Rivera's indictment is the culmination of a multi-agency investigation spearheaded by the FBI and the Galveston Police Department.

"This was an appalling crime that made our hearts heavy," Bryan Gaines, the supervisory senior resident agent at the FBI office in Texas City, said at a press conference in June after Rivera and Gomez were arrested.

"No one reported Jayden as missing. No one was looking for Jayden. Jayden had no advocate other than us. Somebody took a beautiful, innocent child and discarded him in the ocean like he was a piece of trash."

Jayden Lopez's body was found on a beach in Galveston on October 20, 2017. Because Jayden's identity was originally unknown, the Galveston Police Department enlisted the help of the public to identify the child, releasing a sketch of the boy's face and posting billboards from Texas to Kentucky to Louisiana.

Lopez was given the name "Baby Jacob" during the search before he was ultimately identified through information gained from tips submitted by the public.

In March, a caller to the FBI tipline said he believed Rivera was the boy's mother. He told authorities that the last time he'd seen Rivera, in December, she had only one of her two children with her. That child looked "sickly" and "malnourished," and the couple said they'd been living in Chicago since October, returning to Houston only to attend a function.

Investigators identified an apartment in southwest Houston where Rivera and Gomez were staying, finding Rivera and Gomez with a 3-year old boy.

When asked about her son, Jayden, Rivera said he had been kidnapped, according to court records. Gomez reiterated that claim under questioning, but later said she thought the boy was with Rivera's family.

In the weeks that followed, investigators used DNA testing to show Rivera was the boy's mother, and they used a toll booth photograph and video to show that Rivera's car  with Rivera and Gomez believed to be inside  had driven toward Galveston in the middle of the night within hours of the child's body being found on the beach.

Autopsy results released earlier this year indicated that Jayden Lopez had been abused before his death. He was also extremely malnourished, weighing just 26 to 30 pounds  about half the weight a normal boy his age should have been.

Rivera told investigators that Jayden had hit his head on the wall about two weeks before his death. She said she tried to clean the injury with alcohol.

After the injury, she said the boy began acting differently and became a nuisance. She said his face swelled up, his health deteriorated and he complained of stomach aches.

Eventually, Rivera said that "she could tell it was the end" and that Jayden had died, according to court filings.

Rivera and Gomez got up in the middle of the night and drove to Galveston, with the other boy in the car. They knew Jayden liked the beach, so they put his body in the water.

Rivera said she didn't seek medical care for Jayden because she feared authorities would take away both kids, according to court records.

Court records indicate abuse may have been a pattern in the boy's short life. A Department of Family and Protective Services investigator obtained records in July 2016 indicating that Jayden had been admitted to Texas Children's Hospital with a broken left thigh bone, which was later confirmed by the Galveston County Medical Examiner.

Rivera's younger 3-year old boy has been placed in foster care. Authorities still haven't located the child's father.

ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Questions remain about 2 women charged in Little Jacob case

If convicted, Rivera faces a range of punishment on the child injury charge of five to 99 years or life in prison, and a range of punishment of two to 20 years in prison for the charge of tampering with physical evidence.

Nick Powell covers Galveston County for the Chronicle. Follow him on Twitter and send him tips at nick.powell@chron.com
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner saluted young student workers in the TRIO Electric Pre-Apprenticeship Program and proclaimed Friday, July 27, as TRIO Pre-Apprenticeship Partnership Day.

He encouraged the 40 students in the program that working hard and learning skills for a good-paying career will position them to do the best for themselves and their families. The mayor reminded the students that he had once served as an electricians apprentice where he learned skills that he still uses.

The mayor recognized TRIO Electric and its education partners, especially Spring Branch ISD and HCC, for creating an effective pre-apprenticeship program that prepares students for skilled workforce jobs in the electrical industry.

The theme of the day was vision and skills. Spring Branch ISD superintendent Scott Muri told the students that it was the vision of TRIO Electric president Beau Pollock that created the apprenticeship program to solve a need for skilled workers. Associate vice chancellor Michael Webster of Houston Community College (HCC) reminded the students that the skills learned in the apprenticeship program will last them a lifetime.

Today is a great day in the city of Houston, Mayor Turner said. Beau Pollock of TRIO Electric has the vision, dedication and commitment to provide students with job skills, Mayor Turner said. You are trailblazers, he told the students, willing to work hard and learn work skills. In Houston, we invest in human infrastructure because we believe in people like you.

TRIO initiated a TRIO Apprenticeship Program in 2013 to help meet a critical demand for electricians with technical and leadership skills. Nearly 200 workers have taken advantage of TAP. In 2017, TRIO started working with Spring Branch ISD and Houston Community College to establish the TRIO Pre-Apprenticeship Program for high school students. By the fall 2018 semester, more than 150 high school students will be taking advantage of TPAP through Spring Branch ISD, Austin ISD and Grand Prairie ISD. TRIO Electric plans to expand TPAP to other areas of Texas and the U.S.

TPAP students are recruited by their high school counselors and TRIO on-campus and then selected for the program. The TPAP program is taught by former electricians and educators with electrical experience who are collectively recruited and screened by the partnership. The program teaches students how to be safe, productive and skilled electricians as well as teaches other employable and soft skills required by the workplace.

Pollock thanked the students for performing on the job. I had a good idea to train students, yet you had to perform, he told the students. You performed and proved this was a good idea.

TRIO offers the students who perform internship opportunities and full-time employment after graduation where they will continue their apprenticeship training until they are eligible to take the state journeyman exam.

In addition to HCC and Spring Branch ISD, TRIO Pre-Apprenticeship Program partners include Spring Branch ISD SKY partners - KIPP and YES Prep, as well as the Greater Houston Partnerships UpSkill Houston, United Way, Texas Gulf Coast Workforce Solutions, and the Department of Labor (DOL). The TRIO TAP and TPAP programs are DOL-approved.

For more information about TRIO Electric, go to www.trioltd.com.
The Houston physician loved theater so much that he decided to create his own theater company.

Founder and Executive Artistic Director Dr. Michael J. Heard started The Caduceus Theater Arts Company in 2017 and said he likes to put on shows that not only entertain but cause the audience to think and sometimes grow uncomfortable.

Porcelain, which runs Aug. 3-26 at MATCH (Midtown Arts & Theater Center), should do just that. The play tells the story of a young Asian homosexual who admits to shooting his lover in a London restroom.

Heard said he had always enjoyed theater but was inspired in high school when he saw two good friends brilliantly transform into the characters they played. He said he developed a passion for it, and it became a serious hobby.

Even later as he chose medicine as a career, Heard still found ways to work theater into his life.

I was involved as a donor to numerous theater organizations in Houston but found that I could never get involved like I wanted unless I did it myself. Now, I make all the decisions and get to do what I want, he said.

Heard has worked in different areas of medicine, including obstetrics and gynecology, urgent care and infertility, and continues to practice on a part-time basis.

He said his years of being a doctor have prepared him to run the theater company.

More Information The play runs Aug. 3-26 at MATCH (Midtown Arts & Theater Center), which is located at 3400 Main. Because it contains violence, sexual content and strong language, the play is meant for mature audiences. For more information, visit www.thecaduceustheater.com. See More Collapse

Medicine is really just like theater and the dramatic arts, Heard said. I have learned to listen carefully and interact with others with real emotion. It makes me a better doctor and actor.

Unmarried and one of five children, he said his family tends to wonder how he can pull off his two careers at the same time.

My family continues to think Im a little crazy in that I find time for medicine and theater as well. Others call me the Renaissance man who can do a little bit of everything, Heard said.

Heard said annually The Caduceus Theater Arts Company provides deserving members with stipends for medical, legal and dental services as well as scholarships for those who are studying theater. Heard said he hopes to grow the awards in the future.

Heard said he is excited about presenting the play written by Chay Yew to the Houston community because it has a quality script and addresses relevant subjects.

I was involved in this production 10 years ago in a small academic theater and was very impressed by how it was written and ultimately, its effect on the audience, Heard said. I enjoy doing comedies, musicals and dark drama: shows that have relevance to real life events and make the audience uncomfortable sometimes with the subject matter.

Actor Bao Quoc Hoang, who also goes by Bobo, plays the lead character, 19-year-old John Lee. Originally from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Hoang moved to Texas following high school.

He said he wanted to play the role since he knew it would cause him to grow as an actor and also because he could relate to the character.

I felt like this role would be a challenging role where I could experience the new emotions, explore and develop my ability, Hoang said. At the same time, I found some similarities and connections to the role John Lee that made me really want to play this role even more. Ive always wanted to take on roles that have complicated, kind of heavy internal feelings.

So far, Hoang said he has enjoyed working on Porcelain and how it has forced him to stretch his abilities.

I have been getting more comfortable in my own skin and have gotten to get out of my comfort zone and push to my limits, as well as explore a new range of emotions and experiences, Hoang said.

Hoang said professionally he wants to keep on improving the delivery of the characters story to the audience in the most effective ways, to keep pushing [himself] to take on new challenging roles and also to participate in bringing diversity into the theater industry.

He encouraged theater buffs and novices to come out and experience Porcelain.

Porcelain is a play that moves the audience from the tenderness into the cruelty of reality, Hoang said. It brings the entertaining laughs along with the illustrations of humans common issues that makes you think and absorb it as it is.

tracy.maness@hcnonline.com
Law enforcement officers spread throughout portions of Willis High School on Tuesday with simunition guns drawn, searching every nook and cranny as if there was an active shooter in the school threatening teachers, staff and students.

With the first day of school around the corner, Willis High School served as the site for an active shooter training exercise for various local officers, giving them a chance to practice their techniques and learn the campus layout.

This kind of training is very important; this is a situation that we never want to happen, Willis ISD Superintendent Tim Harkrider said. Because were having conversations and talking about it, were better prepared for anything. If the unexpected does happen, everyone is prepared to protect themselves.

The Montgomery County Precinct 1 Constables Office, the Willis Police Department and the New Waverly Police Department officers gathered at the school for training provided by SWAT-trained Montgomery County District Attorneys Office investigators on Tuesday and Wednesday.

This training is not just for schools, we can utilize this training for any place such as the Kroger grocery store or the mall, Montgomery County Precinct 1 Constable Philip Cash said. Our school resource officers are familiar with the school, but during an active shooter incident, officers from others agencies will respond. This helps for all of us to be trained under the same principles and react the same in a tense situation.

Although several of the officers have been through the training beforehand, they continue to attend each year to hone their craft.

Throughout the training exercise, officers worked together in a group, going step-by-step from the officers responding to the call out as if the incident just happened all the way to engaging the threat.

This is an eye-opener for a lot of the officers who havent gone through the training, but if the call comes out, we want them to be prepared for the call and know how to respond, Cash added.

In addition to hosting an active shooter training exercise for law enforcement officers, they will also host a similar exercise for Willis ISD teachers later in the week.

During the first part of the exercise, they will go through the training as a teacher and then, the second part as if they were a student, Willis ISD Director of Campus Security Lt. Leslee Zemlicka said. This helps for them to understand what their students are going through and what they are asking for them do in these types of incidents.

On Monday, all law enforcement agencies in Montgomery County met to discuss safety policies and response to incidents going forward, Cash added.

We learn from these tragedies like the shooting at Santa Fe High School; its a sad learning experience, but we can take the good and the bad and ensure we are trained to respond to any time of the incident, Cash said.

As an addition to the active shooter training, Willis ISD teachers will be equipped with a new app for their phone that allows for them to push a button for various emergencies that will send out a corresponding message to affected teachers and 911.

According to information provided by the company that developed the Rave Panic Button, Rave Mobile Safety, once the appropriate panic button has been activated, 911 call dispatchers know which emergency service to dispatch, where to dispatch it and who was responsible for the panic buttons activation.

Simultaneously, any other authorized user on the school's panic button network receives an alert advising them of the type of emergency in order that they can initiate evacuation or lockdown procedures; or, in the event of a medical emergency, ensure a clear route for EMS personnel, the creators of the app stated.

The new app is among the safety improvements Willis ISD has put together for the 2018-19 school year.

Were excited about the Rave Panic Button because all of our employees at the different campuses will have it installed on their phones which is geo-coded to their area, linked up with 911, making it easier to respond to emergencies, Harkrider said. The app has different options whether it is an active shooter or a medical emergency. Once the panic button is activated, all of the phones on the system will begin buzzing, letting that teacher know about the emergency.

Willis ISD is also currently in the process of having the door-control systems named Bearacades approved for the high school. The Bearacade Door Control System deploys quickly on any interior classroom or office door to effectively barricade the door in the event of a hostile intruder incident. They can be used on inward and outward opening doors as well as double doors.

The Montgomery County Crime Stoppers, doing business as Multi-County Crime Stoppers, is working with Harkrider to approve the installation of the Bearacades for the new school year.

We want to keep our students and staff members safe; were doing everything we can to make this possible, Harkrider said. Our district motto is one team, one purpose, and we will only continue to get stronger each year to ensure our students are successful and safe.

jennifer.summer@hcnonline.com
Komal Panjwani, a Stephen F. Austin graduate, has become a Gold Award Girl Scout.

The honor recognizes girls in grades 9 through 12 who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through sustainable and measurable community service projects that require a minimum of 80 hours to complete. Fewer than 5 percent of Girl Scouts earn the award.

According to the Girl Scout Research Institutes (GSRI) report, The Power of the Girl Scout Gold Award: Excellence in Leadership and Life, Gold Award Girl Scouts receive greater lifetime benefits than their peers with regard to positive sense of self, life satisfaction, leadership, life success, community service and civic engagement thanks to their experience in Girl Scouting, including earning their Gold Award.

Panjwani organized two workshop events where she educated parents and students about the importance in career diversity. She hopes to make an impact that will promote diversity among career choices as well as positively influence young adults to choose careers that interest them. The first event was an open mic night where dancers performed and a local artist displayed an art gallery. The second event featured three guest speakers, a male elementary school teacher, a female engineer and the runner up at the Miss India America Houston beauty pageant.

A career is something you will be doing your whole life and working through it with minimal interest may work out for a few years, Panjwani said. But since we are all humans, boredom will strike and it will make your life worthless. My project inspires others to fulfill their individual dreams and not see societal beliefs as a boundary.

Panjwani also created a blog and a Facebook page to further her message of career individualism. According to her, by opening others perspectives toward nontraditional jobs, people will feel more comfortable choosing a career they are truly passionate about not just choosing a career out of conventional reasons.

Showing off your individual talents is something I support, but there was a time in my life where I felt as if being a normal kid like I saw on TV was the correct thing to do, Panjwani said. Now I realize following my heart and fulfilling my individual hopes and dreams will make me prosper in the future.

Panjwani will attend Houston Baptist University and study business management and minor in pre-law.

To learn more about the Girl Scout Gold Award, visit www.gssjc.org/goldawardgirlscout.

Komal Panjwani, a Stephen F. Austin graduate, has become a Gold Award Girl Scout. She organized two workshop events where she educated parents and students about the importance in career diversity. Panjwani also created a blog and a Facebook page to further her message of career individualism. She hopes to positively influence young adults to choose careers that interest them. To learn more about the Girl Scout Gold Award, visit www.gssjc.org/goldawardgirlscout.
A majority of the Tennessee Supreme Court has denied death row inmate, Billy Ray Irick, a stay of execution pending the resolution of his appeal of an unsuccessful challenge to the States lethal injection protocol. Mr. Irick is scheduled to be executed on Thursday, Aug. 9.

Irick was sentenced to death following his 1986 convictions for the rape and murder of a seven-year-old child. Following Mr. Iricks exhaustion of all levels of appellate review, the Tennessee Supreme Court set his execution date for Dec. 7, 2010. Irick, however, was granted a stay based upon his claim that he was mentally incompetent to be executed. The Court rescheduled his execution for Oct. 7, 2014, after affirming a trial courts determination that Irick was mentally competent to be executed.

In 2015, Iricks execution again was stayed following the filing by Irick and other death row inmates of a lawsuit claiming that the Tennessee Department of Corrections (TDOC) single-drug lethal injection protocol using pentobarbital was unconstitutional. On March 28, 2017, the Tennessee Supreme Court upheld the single-drug protocol as constitutional. In January 2018, after the United States Supreme Court refused to hear the case involving the one-drug protocol, the Tennessee Supreme Court again rescheduled Iricks execution, this time for Aug. 9.



Around this same time in January 2018, TDOC adopted a three-drug lethal injection protocol as an alternative method of execution. In February 2018, Irick and 32 other death row inmates filed a constitutional challenge to this three-drug protocol. While the inmates case was pending, TDOC eliminated the single-drug lethal injection alternative, rendering the three-drug protocol as the only available lethal injection execution method in Tennessee.



On July 26, the chancery court in Davidson County dismissed the inmates complaint, and the plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal on July 30. Also on July 30, Irick filed a motion with the Tennessee Supreme Court to vacate the Courts order setting his Aug. 9, execution date.

In its per curiam order filed Aug. 6, a majority of the Court denied Iricks Motion to Vacate Execution Date. The Court pointed out a 2015 amendment to the Rules of the Tennessee Supreme Court governing death penalty matters that requires a death row inmate to prove a likelihood of success on the merits of collateral litigation to be granted a stay of an execution date while that collateral litigation is pending. This is the first death penalty case in which the Court has applied this revised rule.



Based upon previous federal and state court cases, to prevail on a claim that a particular method of execution amounts to cruel and unusual punishment, an inmate must establish both that the method in question presents an imminent risk of serious illness and needless suffering and that a feasible, readily implemented alternative method of execution exists that will significantly reduce a substantial risk of severe pain. Applying the facts of this case to these two elements, the Court first determined that Irick had failed to prove a likelihood of success as to the existence of a feasible, readily implemented alternative method of execution.



Although the Court could have ruled against Irick on this basis alone, it also noted other previous decisions from the United States Supreme Court and the Tennessee Supreme Court upholding almost identical and similar three-drug protocols. Thus, the proof before the Court demonstrated that Irick also is unlikely to prevail on the element that requires him to prove that the method in question presents an imminent risk of serious illness and needless suffering. As a result, the Court concluded that Irick failed to establish a likelihood of success on his constitutional challenge to the three-drug protocol. Accordingly, the Court denied Iricks motion to stay the Aug. 9, 2018 execution date.



Justice Sharon G. Lee dissented and would have granted Irick a stay to prevent the State from executing him before his appeal could be heard.

The dissent said, "Unless the execution date is reset, Irick  unlike the other 32 death row inmates who also challenged the States method of execution  will not live to see whether the trial courts decision was correct. The dissent notes that since 2010, TDOC has repeatedly changed its lethal injection protocol, resulting in litigation and delays. Just this year, TDOC has changed the protocol twice. The last change to the protocol was on July 5, only four days before the chancery court heard the case. Justice Lee concluded, based on the limited information available to the Court, that Mr. Irick had shown a likelihood of success on the merits in his appeal. For example, the chancery court ruled that the inmates failed to prove that pentobarbital was available to TDOC as a feasible, readily implemented alternative execution drug. Yet Texas and Georgia have used pentobarbital in 10 executions so far this year, and Texas has eight more executions set this year using pentobarbital. As to imminent risk of serious illness and needless suffering presented by the protocol, the chancery court made a specific finding that expert testimony introduced by the inmates showed that Midazolam does not elicit strong analgesic effects and that inmates may be able to feel pain from the administration of the second and third drugs in the protocol during execution. This is the first time any court in Tennessee has considered a lethal injection protocol using Midazolam. Although courts in other states have upheld this method, each case should be decided on its own merits and facts."



The dissent concluded that the harm to the State from briefly delaying the execution until after appellate review would be minimal, if any, but the harm to Irick from an unconstitutional execution would be irreparable.




When President Donald Trump announced the restoration of sanctions on Iran on Monday, hammering another nail in the coffin of the the 2015 nuclear agreement, he said he hoped to reach a more comprehensive deal addressing the regimes malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism. As New York Magazine writes in an article "While Condemning Iran, the U.S. Contributes to Terrorism in the Middle East, Too", hard checks on these activities would be difficult to enforce; moreover, Iran would never agree to them, which is why they were not included in the deal struck by the Obama administration.

While not ideal, these omissions were seen as an acceptable price to pay in order to put the brakes on Irans nuclear-weapons activity for years to come and open up some breathing room for a more permanent diplomatic solution. (Trumps closest advisers, of course, have a different kind of permanent solution in mind for Iran.) Arms proliferation, terrorism, and meddling in the affairs of other countries are all rightly described as malign activities, but at the same time, it is hard to see why Iran would agree to give up practices that its rivals and enemies routinely employ.

The Trump administrations concern over Irans support for terrorist organizations throughout the Middle East is entirely legitimate. Iran projects regional power through a variety of non-state proxies: Hezbollah in Lebanon and Syria, Hamas in Gaza, various Shiite militias in Iraq, and Yemens Houthi rebels. Yet the United States has little in the way of moral high ground from which to berate Iran for supporting terrorism and destabilizing fragile states in its backyard. Over the past few decades, the U.S. has often found itself doing the same thing in the course of projecting our own power and defending the hegemony of our problematic allies in the Middle East.

The latest example of this comes from Yemen, where an Associated Press investigation published Monday found that the U.S.-backed military coalition led by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates has on numerous occasions paid off members of Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) to abandon their strongholds or even to join up with coalition forces.

While ostensibly at war with both AQAP and the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, the U.A.E. and Saudi Arabia see the latter as the more pressing threat by far. Accordingly, the AP found, local militias supported by the coalition frequently recruit seasoned Al Qaeda fighters into their ranks to fight the Houthis, in deals allegedly brokered by Emirati agents and greased with Saudi money.

The U.S. does not directly fund the coalition, and the investigation found no evidence of American money making its way to AQAP militants. Nonetheless, the U.S. has supported the coalition with billions of dollars in weaponry, while providing intelligence and air support, chiefly in the form of drone strikes. Money is fungible, and every dollar the U.S. spends on weapons for the coalition is a dollar Saudi Arabia or the U.A.E. saves to spend on bribing or recruiting AQAP jihadists. When our drones hold off on bombing AQAP convoys while the coalition grants them safe passage into their mountain hideaways, we are still complicit in a dirty deal.

This doesnt make us any worse than Iran, but it underscores the reality that in messy wars over failed states, nobody comes out with clean hands. Not one participant in the humanitarian catastrophe that is the Yemeni civil war has in mind the best interests of Yemen as a country or the Yemeni people. As the regional powers play their grand strategy game and attempt to muscle the country into their respective spheres of influence, everyone on the ground is just scrambling to survive and to expand their piece of a very small pie. The attitude of local militia commanders was described to the AP thusly: We will unite with the devil in the face of Houthis.

The same is true of Syria, where the U.S. has consistently had a hell of a time sorting out the good rebel factions we can conscientiously support from the jihadists wed rather not. Despite our best efforts to only arm the good guys, some of the weapons we dumped into Syria inevitably fell into the hands of radical terror groups, including ISIS.

In Iraq, too, militias once supported by Iran have become partners of the U.S. in our efforts to help that country beat back ISIS and restore some vestige of stability. Alliances with paramilitary groups were also a key component of the U.S. counterinsurgency operations during the most violent years of our occupation of Iraq. Needless to say, that occupation was itself among the most destabilizing events to befall the Middle East in its modern history and has led to tens of thousands of deaths from terrorism.

Its hard for the U.S. to credibly condemn Iran for supporting terrorism when every time we involve ourselves in a Middle Eastern conflict, we find ourselves contributing  directly or indirectly, wittingly or unwittingly  to instability, violence, and yes, terrorism. The means of our foreign policy in the Middle East are at odds with its supposed ends. Our invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, our attempts to tip the scales of the conflicts in Libya and Syria, and our intervention in Yemen have only exacerbated the regions ills.

Our close relationship with Saudi Arabia, which easily rivals Iran as an inspiration, sponsor, and financier of terrorism, is a big part of the problem. By supporting Saudi hegemony in the greater Middle East, we have abetted the proliferation of a radical Islamist ideology no less toxic than that of the Iranian mullahs. Moreover, by keeping Iran in a constant state of threat, we justify its leaders paranoia and motivate them to counter the Saudis with weapons proliferation and terrorist activities of their own.
There's a lot of parents in Texas who think their kids might be a little too hyperactive.

A new study found that the most Googled health problem in Texas for 2018 was ADHD.

Texas was joined by nine other states who also had residents searching for more information on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Medicare Health Plans, a health insurance company, put together the research using Google trends.

They noted that the data is not a reflection of the prevalence of health issues in each state, but people's interest in those issues.

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The data found ADHD as the top googled search term across all fifty states, followed by syphilis and HIV/AIDS.

Other states had more interesting searches, like West Virginia and porn addiction or Maine and rabies.

As for Texas and its hyperactive children, the latest report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that about 10 percent of Texas' youth have been diagnosed with ADHD.

When compared to other states, the rate of ADHD in Texas is pretty average so parents ought to take it easy with the googling.

Fernando Ramirez covers Texas news and politics. Read him on our breaking news site and on our subscriber site. | Fernando.ramirez@chron.com | @fernramirez93




An effort to change the name of Robert E. Lee High School in Tyler failed Monday, after drawn-out debate in the community around the issue, according to the Tyler Morning Telegraph.

Aaron Martinez, a Tyler ISD school board trustee, motioned at a board meeting to get rid of the moniker, which commemorates the confederate general. But none of the other six trustees seconded his motion, meaning it could not be voted on, the paper reported.
More than a dozen Harris County misdemeanor judges contend that public safety would be imperiled if they followed an untenable new pretrial release order by a Houston federal judge who has found the current county bail system unconstitutional.

An appellate lawyer representing 14 county court-at-law judges, all Republicans, argued before an appeals court in Houston Tuesday that Chief U.S. District Judge Lee H. Rosenthals revised instructions overstepped the narrow directions she was given in June by the federal appeals court to fine tune elements of her initial order. The revision afforded liberties that the appeals court did not mandate, allowing people arrested on certain offenses be released as promptly as those who are able to secure money bail, the judges lawyer argued.

Since the Magna Carta money bail has been seen as sufficient surety and wealth is an inevitable factorwhen that surety is money bail, said Charles Cooper, a Washington D.C. lawyer representing the judges.

Many of the judges wont be on the bench much longer to oversee the new bail policies, since seven are not seeking re-election this fall.

NO BAIL: Gov. Abbott proposes tougher no-bail rules for violent crime suspects

An attorney for the indigent defendants argued that Rosenthals order did not stray from the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals instructions, nor does it create irreparable harm for the courts and the public. The courts can impose unaffordable bail if they can justify it, he said.

A period of wealth based detention is OK, but you have to show that youre serving some interest, said Alec Karakatsanis, who represents the indigent defendants in the class action suit.

Two other court at law judges, a Republican and a Democrat, as well as the sheriff and the county itself, did not oppose Rosenthals revised temporary injunction. The countys legal tab for opposing the case has surpassed $6.6 million, according to Robert Soard, first assistant to County Attorney Vince Ryan.

NEW ORDER: Federal judge on landmark Harris County bail suit implements revisions to policy

Pct. 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis, a longtime advocate for criminal justice reform who supports the lawsuit, said he wondered whether the county legitimately intends to settle the case prior to trial.

It looks like they just want a blank check to continue current unconstitutional practices, Ellis said.

Rosenthal ruled in a sweeping 2017 opinion that the countys bail system violated the Constitution, discriminating against misdemeanor defendants who cannot post bail in instances where a person with access to cash could post bail could do so.

The lawsuit was initially brought on behalf of Maranda ODonnell, a young mother who spent two days in jail on a charge of driving with an invalid license because she couldnt come up with $2,500 bail. The case expanded to include all defendants in similar circumstances.

The 14 judges who oppose the order object to the blanket release of certain indigent defendants who have not been seen by a judge within 48 hours of arrest and the release of people who failed to appear in court after previous arrests, their lawyer said. Cooper, referring to disputed data on the rate of defendants who failure to appear fopr their court date, argued that releasing indigent defendants within such a tight window perpetuates a revolving door for recidivists and subjects the public to irreparable harm.

However, Karakatsanis, the opposing counsel, said Rosenthals revised order hews to the appeals courts instructions.

U.S. Fifth Circuit Judges Jerry E. Smith, James E. Graves, Jr. and Stuart Kyle Duncan will rule later on the request for a stay.

Requesting the stay were Court at Law Judges Robin Brown, Diane Bull, John Clinton, Pam Derbyshire, Natalie C. Fleming, Paula Goodhart, Bill Harmon, Margaret Harris, Jean Hughes, Jay Karahan, Donald Smyth, Dan Spjut, Larry Standley and Analia Wilkerson. Court at Law Judges Mike Fields and Darrell Jordan did not oppose the injunction.
The Houston Police Department is searching for a man accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl June 30 at Northline Park and forcing that girl to have sex with a teenage boy in front of him.

The alleged assault occurred around 2 a.m. while the girl and a teenage boy, were eating in a car, ABC13 reported.
Pearland authorities uncovered several threats to consumers and their cash last week, including a card skimmer on a gas pump, bank juggings and several identity theft attempts.

Fraud, forgery

Credit or debit card abuse was reported July 23 in the 8000 block of Broadway Street, police said.

Police completed an identity theft report July 23 in the 4500 block of Duesenberg Court.

Forgery occurred between July 9 and July 17, according to a police report filed July 23 in the 8300 block of Broadway Street.

A credit card skimmer device was found within a gas pump July 24 in the 3500 block of Main Street, police said.

Police filed a credit card abuse report July 24 in the 2800 block of Brownstone Place.

A credit card abuse report was filed July 25 in the 2500 block of Cullen Parkway, police said.

Identifying information was used without the owners consent, according to a police report filed July 25 in the 2800 block of Tranquility Lakes Boulevard.

Identity theft occurred between June 25 and July 23, according to a police report filed July 25 in the 2600 block of Lazy Hollow Drive.

An unknown suspect made multiple unauthorized charges to a victims credit card July 5, according to a police report filed July 26 in the 2600 block of Tarrytown Lane.

Credit card abuse occurred between June 11 and June 12, according to a police report filed July 27 in the 2500 block of Westminister Road.

An unknown suspect forged a check Feb. 23, according to a police report filed July 27 in the 8000 block of Broadway Street.

Police arrested a Fresno man, 26, for credit card abuse July 27 in the 12100 block of Shadow Creek Parkway.

Police filed a forgery report July 28 after a counterfeit bill was received from Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, 3416 Broadway St.

An unknown suspect withdrew money from a complainants account without authorization, according to a police report filed July 29 in the 9600 block of Hamilton Drive.

Credit card abuse was reported July 29 in the 6100 block of Terrell Drive, police said.

Burglary

An unknown person forced entry into a vehicle July 23 in the 2800 block of Miller Ranch Road, police said.

Motor vehicle burglary was reported July 24 in the 11900 block of Shadow Creek Parkway, police said.

Police filed a motor vehicle burglary report July 24 in the 2800 block of Pearland Parkway.

Motor vehicle burglary was reported July 24 in the 8700 block of Broadway Street, police said.

Burglary was reported July 24 in the 2200 block of North Houston Avenue, police said.

Police filed a jugging report July 25 in the 5800 block of Raza Road.

Police arrested a Pearland man, 33, for burglary of a habitation July 26 in the 2400 block of South Washington Avenue.

Motor vehicle burglary was reported July 26 in the 3400 block of Business Center Drive, police said.

Motor vehicle burglary and jugging were reported July 27 in the 1800 block of Country Place Parkway, police said.

Police filed a burglary of habitation report July 27 in the 13200 block of Sage Meadow Lane.

Burglary of a building was reported July 28 in the 11400 block of Broadway Street, police said.

Motor vehicle burglary was reported July 29 in the 11300 block of Windy Creek Drive, police said.

Theft

Theft occurred between June 3 and July 22, according to a police report filed July 23 in the 10100 block of Broadway Street.

Theft was reported July 23 in the 2500 block of Pearland Parkway, police said.

Police took a Houston man, 31, and a Pasadena man, 29, into custody for shoplifting July 23 in the 10100 block of Broadway Street.

An unknown male and female committed shoplifting July 23 at Walmart, 1710 Broadway St., police said.

A motorcycle was stolen July 23 from a parking lot in the 3400 block of Kirby Drive, police said.

Police arrested a Pearland man, 24, and woman, 23, for shoplifting July 24 in the 2500 block of Main Street.

Shoplifting occurred July 24 in the 2500 block of Pearland Parkway, police said.

Police filed two theft reports July 24 in the 11200 block of Broadway Street.

Theft was reported July 24 in the 8400 block of Industrial Drive, police said.

A male suspect committed shoplifting June 18 in the 1500 block of Broadway Street, according to a July 25 police report.

An unknown person took a tablet without permission between July 23 and July 26 in the 2200 block of Kingston Canyon Trail, police said.

A ring was stolen July 23 from an apartment in the 11200 block of Broadway Street, according to a July 26 police report.

Copper tubing was stolen between July 5 and July 26 from a construction site in the 2700 block of South Galveston Avenue, police said.

Police filed a theft report July 26 in the 2700 block of Pearland Parkway.

Theft occurred between March 1 and July 14, according to a police report filed July 27 in the 6200 block of Broadway Street.

Theft was reported July 27 in the 2700 block of Pine Needle Lane, police said.

Jewelry was stolen between July 12 and July 27 in the 2200 block of Kingston Canyon Trail, police said.

Police filed a shoplifting report July 28 in the 11200 block of Broadway Street.

Theft occurred between July 26 and July 29 in the 1900 block of Beacon Springs Court, police said.

Shoplifting was reported July 29 in the 1700 block of Broadway Street, police said.

Assault

Police conducted a family violence investigation July 23 in the 12500 block of Broadway Street.

Police arrested a Pearland man, 46, for assault, family violence July 24 in the 4600 block of North Magnolia Elms Drive. A 44-year-old Pearland woman received a citation for assault, family violence, police said.

A Pearland man, 31, was arrested for assault, family violence July 24 in the 2300 block of Caloway Circle, police said.

Police arrested a Pearland woman, 22, for assault July 25 in the 2800 block of Tranquility Lakes Boulevard.

Assault was reported July 25 in the 2600 block of Pearland Parkway, police said.

Assault, family violence occurred July 25 in the 5900 block of Larrycrest Drive, police said.

A Pearland woman, 50, and Houston man, 49, received citations for assault, family violence July 27 in the 2500 block of Alexander Lane, police said.

Assault took place July 28 in the 2100 block of Tipperary Drive, police said.

Family violence occurred between Jan. 1, 2015, and July 29, according to a police report filed in the 3500 block of Broadway Street.

Police arrested a Pearland man, 41, for assault, family violence July 29 in the 2400 block of Business Center Drive.

Narcotics

Police arrested a 22-year-old Bogalusa, Louisiana, man for marijuana possession July 25 in the 6300 block of Broadway Street.

Police arrested a Manvel man, 29, for marijuana possession July 26 in the 2000 block of Main Street.

Police took a Houston man, 30, into custody for possession of drug paraphernalia July 26 in the 3500 block of Broadway Street.

An Alvin man, 23, was arrested for possession of a drug test falsification device July 27 in the 2400 block of Main Street, police said.

Police arrested a Houston woman, 26, for marijuana possession and a Stafford warrant July 27 in the 16600 block of Texas 288.

Police took a Channelview man, 25, into custody for marijuana possession July 27 in the 5200 block of Main Street.

Welfare concern

A 7-year-old boy was left in an Uber vehicle July 28, according to a police report filed in the 12100 block of Galleon Point Drive.

Driving while intoxicated

Police arrested a Pearland woman, 42, for DWI after a crash July 27 in the 3200 block of Broadway Street.

Police took a Houston man, 34, into custody for DWI with a child passenger July 28 in the 2000 block of Main Street.

A Pearland man, 58, was arrested for DWI July 29 in the 4500 block of Broadway Street, police said.

A Houston man, 37, was taken into custody for DWI July 29 in the 2800 block of Main Street, police said.

Public intoxication

Police arrested a Houston man, 56, for public intoxication July 29 in the 13900 block of Texas 288.

Criminal mischief

Police filed a criminal mischief report after an unknown person shot a vehicles drivers-side window with a BB gun July 24 in the 2900 block of Woodson Terrace Lane.

Criminal mischief occurred between July 7 and July 18 in the 2700 block of Old Alvin Road, according to a July 25 police report.

Threats, harassment

Police filed a harassment report July 25 in the 2900 block of Hamm Road.

A terroristic threat was reported July 28 in the 1300 block of Sandpiper Court, police said.

Traffic

Police took a Pearland man, 20, into custody for fictitious license plate and marijuana possession July 25 in the 2900 block of Smith Ranch Road.

A Houston man, 44, was arrested for driving while license invalid July 26 in the 17600 block of Texas 288, police said.

A 40-year-old Houston woman was taken into custody for no drivers license July 26 in the 13300 block of Shadow Creek Parkway, police said.

Police took a Pearland man, 22, into custody for fictitious or altered motor vehicle registration and failure to maintain financial responsibility July 29 in the 4200 block of Broadway Street.
The seemingly never-ending saga of congested traffic and frustrated drivers on Robinson Road in Oak Ridge North doesnt seem to have an end in sight despite positive, but incremental, progress being made on a project designed to modify the road and its intersection with Hanna Road.

Oak Ridge North City Manager Vicky Rudy said while there are no immediate plans for any construction  something she said is years in the future  officials are now entering the third phase of the design portion of the project, which is the last segment of crafting the new roadway and intersection.

There is no construction planned at this time, Rudy emphasized. There is a current design for a four-lane, undivided (road) alignment at Hanna Road and Robinson Road. The total project would signalize and improve the intersection.

That aspect of future construction is Phase 1 of construction, Rudy explained. Phase 2 of the construction includes plans for a turn lane into the adjacent business park, and Phase 3 of the proposal calls for addressing Robinson Road further west toward Interstate 45 near more residential areas of the small city.

Weve been inching forward on (the project), Rudy added. We are currently wrapping up Phase 2 of design. In October, we should start Phase 3 of design. We have an inter-local agreement between Oak Ridge North (and) with the county to reimburse the city for (design) Phases 1 and 2.

According to preliminary conceptual plans, the proposed Robinson Road and Hanna Road intersection project would eliminate the current dog leg design of the two roads and create a new diagonal roadway slicing through to the southeast to connect the northern end of Robinson and Hanna roads intersection with the southern end of the intersection of the two roads. A traffic signal would also be placed at the new, improved intersection.

Robinson Road problematic for years

Heavy traffic congestion, and the resulting frustrations of drivers, have plagued city officials in Oak Ridge North for years as Robinson Road has become a way for residents of new developments to the east to connect to I-45. Traffic woes are well know to area residents, who have become irritated at continual back-ups, long waits at intersections and delays in getting to the freeway.

In late February, the Oak Ridge North City Council met for a special session to discuss the citys master thoroughfare plan, which was designed by Houston-based engineering firm BGE. The current engineering plans are being done by Houston-based engineering firm RPS Klotz Associates.

The study and resulting thoroughfare plan was first commissioned in April 2017 and funded by the city's Economic Development Corp. The study is intended to be used to classify future roads and also as a means of communicating between grant writers and developers as construction in the area increases.

BGE representative Bill Kotlan said the plan could help solve potential traffic issues that clog Oak Ridge North roads during rush hour. The plan also too into consideration possible road conditions decades from now, when the amount of vehicles on Robinson Road may double.

"What's happening is people are trying to get to I-45 whichever way they can," Kotlan said during the meeting. "It's like a flood where water goes anywhere it can."

The draft thoroughfare plan, which was presented to city council for the first time during the February meeting, assigned Robinson Road and Hanna Road as primary thoroughfares, which are defined as roads meant to collect traffic and direct it to a freeway.

During the February meeting, Oak Ridge North Public Works Director Joe Sherwin said the lack of an effective thoroughfare grid is a challenge for the city as it grows. Mayor Jim Kuykendall also said traffic congestion is an issue in the city, notably during rush hour when it becomes increasingly difficult for residents to move north and south on Hanna Road and gridlock on Robinson Road often renders it virtually impassable.

The issue of Robinson Road and Hanna Road congestion dates back several years and has been the subject of contentious and inaccurate claims by some residents who believe the city is going to recklessly widen Robinson Road and possibly impact homes in the area.

Things began to worsen when the Imperial Oaks subdivision, located east of the 3,000-resident Oak Ridge North, exploded in growth, causing an estimated 16,000 cars a day to travel along Robinson Road, a two-lane thoroughfare which was only designed to carry 2,000 vehicles. The road faces limitations due to the two-lanes, but a dog leg misalignment at the intersections with Hanna Road causes cars to back up at stop signs and a nearby railroad crossing.

An $8 million plan to realign and widen Robinson Road was included in the $350 million road bond in May 2015 that was voted down by county residents, but the project was dropped off of the trimmed-down bond that later approved on Nov. 3, 2015, because it received resistance from residents for cutting a path through homes, a church and a school.

The previous plan to realign the road would have also opened up some land for the city to build a Main Street-style town plaza with walkable streets, shops and restaurants.

The concept was met with opposition from residents, and an online petition that had nearly 300 signatures in September 2015, advocated against the plan to widen and realign the road and also against the concept of the Town Plaza. In an effort to maintain our quality of life in Oak Ridge North, we are asking for complete transparency in regard to the adopted Comprehensive Plan for Oak Ridge North, the petition stated.

City officials went back to the drawing board in hopes of a more widely accepted solution, hosting a community meeting in November, 2015, to get feedback from residents. Hundreds attended the meeting, choosing between various alternatives, from additional traffic lights at the intersection of Robinson and Hanna roads, to other choices such as widening to four lanes or simply doing nothing. The majority of votes cast by residents opted to have something done, while about 28 percent voted in favor of doing nothing.

The residents realize that Robinson Road is a big problem, Kuykendall said at the time, noting that the minority that want nothing done are clinging to the bedroom community of the past. Theyd like to say forever and ever it's always going to be the same. I cant say that," Kuykendall said. Letsmake it go away. That is their answer.

In several recent election cycles, including in 2016, 2017 and 2018, debate has swirled between incumbents and candidates about the future of the project, with Kuykendall expressing his frustrations in the May 2018 race after a challenger made misleading statements about the project.

Rudy said those claims are simply not true, adding that city leaders nixed any proposals to create a four-lane, divided roadway long ago after deciding to not pursue federal or state funding to help pay for the project.

We have officially abandoned trying to get state and federal funds, she said, citing higher standards for environmental review and most importantly, a desire to not negatively impact the citys residents with too large of a project. Federal and state officials) Wanted it to be a four-lane divided road, which is too high of an impact.

At the moment, there is no plan for any construction on the project in the near future, Rudy said, but the project is high on our agenda.

Because we dont have funding tied down, there is no timeline for construction to begin, Rudy added. The bottom line is the city could not do this on its own.
At the end of the last month, the Special Investigative Service of Armenia accused former President Robert Kocharian of overthrowing the constitutional order within the criminal case related to a crackdown on antigovernment protesters on March 1, 2008. While he was placed into custody, observers recall what Kocharyan had done or could have done while he was president of Armenia and the self-proclaimed NKR. One of these dark, steeped in secrecy stories is the murder of the Chairman of the Supreme Council Artur Mkrtchyan.

Expert at the Civilitas Foundation Tatul Hakobyan recalls in his book 'The Karabakh Diary: Green and Black', published in 2008, that on December 28, 1991, the Dashnaktsutiun party won the parliamentary election in the unrecognized 'NKR', with which the Pan-Armenian National Movement, which was the ruling party in Armenia back then, and the first president of Armenia Levan Ter-Petrosyan had serious disagreements. Prior to August 1992, a de facto dual authority existed in the unrecognized 'NKR' - the Presidium of the Supreme Council was predominantly composed of Dashnaks, and executive power was exercised by those who collaborated with Yerevan, according to Ter-Petrosyan - "the local network of the Pan-Armenian National Movement" (Robert Kocharyan, Serge Sargsyan).

Early in January 1992, at the sitting of the "NKR parliament" the 32-year-old candidate of historical sciences Artur Mkrtchyan, who finished his graduate studies in the Moscow Institute of Local History and Ethnography, was elected chairman of the Supreme Council. It came as a surprise to many. But Mkrtchyan served in this office for only 97 days - a bullet in his temple put an end to his political career and his whole life. According to the official version, Mkrtchyan was killed by his wife out of jealousy.

In Yerevan, Mkrtchyan's death was regarded as a "murderous murder", "the aim of which is to weaken the people who embarked on the path of the national liberation struggle." And soon the experts started talking about the fact that individual acts of terrorism became a method to deal with problems both in the 'NKR' and in Armenia. The murder of Arthur Mkrtchyan was never solved.

They said that Robert Kocharyan could be responsible for the massacre, who soon assumed the position as head of the State Defense Committee of the NKR, and then the president. Critics of this point of view argue that in the 1990s real power in the 'NKR' lied in the hands of the commander of the Defense Army Samvel Babayan, while Kocharian's presidency was only a political sign of the dictatorship. The leading role of the army in the unrecognized 'NKR' contributed to the rise of the general, and soon Babayan started to play an increasing role in the political life of both 'NKR' and Armenia.

In any case, according to observers, Kocharyan was never held in great affection in Karabakh, and even if he was not Babayan's puppet, he owed his posts in the occupied territories thanks to Mkrtchyan's killing.
Plenty of attention has been paid to the European-born fighters who have joined the Islamic State and other Islamist militant groups in the Middle East - and the efforts of European countries to stop them. But what about those fighting in Ukraine?

In Italy, it has long been an open secret that far-right activists were fighting in Donbass, the eastern Ukrainian region where pro-Russian separatists - with Russian government assistance - have been fighting the Ukrainian government since 2014. Italian authorities, however, didn't seem interested in stopping them.

That suddenly changed last week, when prosecutors in the northern Italian city of Genoa ordered the arrest of six men accused of joining pro-Russian militias in Donbass and recruiting others to their cause. The arrests marked the first time Italian authorities have charged anyone with fighting in Ukraine, though three of the men remain at large. The same prosecutors have also charged 15 other people with being part of the recruitment ring.

"What's interesting is that some of them were already known faces whose activities in Ukraine were common knowledge," said Francesco Marone, a research fellow at the Italian Institute for International Political Studies.

One of the fugitives is Andrea Palmieri, a former leader of the far-right hooligan group Bulldog Lucca who had previously appeared on national TV boasting about fighting in Ukraine. Another one is Gabriele Carugati, the son of a politician from the far-right League party - the League is one of Italy's two current governing parties - who had publicly praised her son's choice to fight in Ukraine.

The Genoa police had been investigating far-right networks in the area since 2016, according to the newspaper Genova Today. But the arrests seem to have come in response to complaints from Ukraine earlier this year. In April, a member of the Ukrainian Parliament submitted a list of 25 Italian citizens believed to be fighting with pro-Russian militias.

Authorities in Genoa carried out the investigations and arrests in collaboration with the ROS, the anti-terrorism branch of the Carabinieri, Italy's paramilitary national police force, but no officials from the national government have yet commented on the arrests.

Foreign fighters from Italy generally fall into three categories: those fighting with Islamist groups, mostly in Syria or Libya; those joining the YPG, a Syrian Kurdish militia, and other Kurdish groups; and those fighting in Ukraine, Marone said.

While Italy approved a special law against foreign fighters in 2015, it targeted youth joining the Islamic State and other Islamist groups. But it does not apply to those joining separatist groups in Ukraine, who are being prosecuted as unauthorized mercenaries rather than terrorists because pro-Russian militias are not considered terrorist groups by Italy.

"Authorities have different attitudes toward these three groups," Marone said. "ISIS returnees are seen as a threat because they belong to an organization that also carries attacks in Europe, while foreign fighters coming back from Kurdistan are widely tolerated, and so were those coming back from Ukraine"

Marone argued that far-right fighters still post a threat because of their links to violent groups within Italy. "They are seen as dangerous not because they could carry some kind of terror attack or guerrilla operations in Italy, but because they are violent individuals who have learned how to use weapons," he said.
On the Canadian government website, everything appeared to be normal with Saudi Arabia as of Tuesday morning. The two countries, the site stated, share "common interests on many peace and security issues." Furthermore, Saudi Arabia constitutes "an important source of foreign students for Canada" and "trade and economic interests continue to be at the forefront of Canada's bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia."

In reality, however, this could not be farther from reality. After Canada's foreign minister expressed alarm at the recent arrest of a Saudi women's rights activist, the kingdom on Monday expelled the Canadian ambassador, halted trade and investment deals and ordered up to 12,000 students to return to the kingdom. Flights will be suspended starting next week.

The measures were part of a seemingly unprecedented diplomatic storm that appeared to have come without a warning, given that Canada is hardly the first Western democracy to criticize the absolute monarchy's human rights record. But a closer look at Saudi Arabia's responses to foreign criticism under its new crown prince Mohammed bin Salman tells a slightly different story: that Saudi fury didn't come entirely out of nowhere.

"We have witnessed for some time now that Saudi foreign policy has become much more assertive and more muscular," said said Fawaz Gerges, professor of Middle Eastern Politics at the London School of Economics.

A number of European nations have felt the fallout of Saudi Arabia's new assertiveness in recent years, including Sweden and Germany. In 2015, the kingdom temporarily recalled its ambassador to Sweden after the Scandinavian nation singled out Saudi writer Raif Badawi's arrest and trial as an example for broader human rights failures in the Middle Eastern monarchy. (The activist at the center of the current Saudi-Canadian dispute is his sister, Samar Badawi, whose arrest was made public last week.)

While Western criticism of Saudi practices has often resulted in ambassadors being recalled or statements being issued, Germany was the first nation to feel the tougher approach Prince Mohammed now appears to have embraced. Last November, then-foreign minister Sigmar Gabriel said that Europe "could not tolerate the adventurism that has spread there," in remarks that were widely interpreted as criticism of Saudi Arabia's military intervention in Yemen that has cost tens of thousands of lives as well as the strange trip by Lebanon's prime minister to Saudi Arabia where he publicly resigned - leading to speculation that he had been kidnapped.

Saudi Arabia first lashed out at Gabriel over what it said were "shameful and unjustified remarks," and then recalled its ambassador, in the same pattern that played out in Sweden - with a twist. This spring, German officials confirmed to multiple media outlets that Saudi Arabia had also quietly blacklisted some German companies as a result of the criticism in a rare case of economic retaliation.

In Saudi Arabia, the recent criticism from Germany and Canada appears to have struck a nerve that goes beyond what sparked prior spats. Officials in Riyadh believe that they have already given enough to those demanding more liberties and tolerance, by allowing women finally to drive and pledging to return to a more "moderate Islam" last October, even as critics have raised doubts over the motives behind the reforms. London School of Economics Middle East scholar Madawi Al-Rasheed warned last October that measures such as the promotion of a "moderate Islam" were "geared to attract investors and create a feel good factor for a kingdom that had a very bad reputation."

To revive its weakening economy, the crown prince - who assumed power last year - has worked up plans to create a new, futuristic city in the west of Saudi Arabia that he hopes will attract tech companies.

In order to succeed, Prince Mohammed will need to balance the interests of ultraconservatives in his kingdom and of liberals demanding more extensive changes.

"Arresting some female activists and liberal voices was probably his way of saying: I'm not just trying to crack down on ultra-conservative voices, but also against those who don't play along by rules of game: a gradual top-down reform process," said Middle East scholar Gerges.

"Saudi Arabia's foreign policy is an extension of that domestic balancing act. By confronting Canada, Saudi Arabia is sending the message anyone who interferes in Saudi's internal affairs will face swift and prompt measures," said Gerges. With the end of the Obama administration, one of Saudi Arabia's toughest critics disappeared - which has put other Western powers like Germany, France or Canada in a more awkward position.

By suspending at least some ties to nations like Canada and even more important trading partners such as Germany, Saudi Arabia now appears to be imitating an approach China has relatively successfully pursued in recent years: to modernize, but on its own terms.

And in Europe, the current consensus appears to be to play along - at least for now. Germany's new foreign minister has so far refrained from the sort of blunt criticism his predecessor voiced, even though human rights remain on the agenda. Meanwhile, in neighboring France, President Emmanuel Macron said during a joint press conference with Prince Mohammed in April that "if there is one chance that his project succeeds, then it's the responsibility of France to accompany him," referring to the Saudi reforms.

The most cutting official French criticism of Saudi Arabia's human rights record during the crown prince's visit was a rather oblique one: a tweet from Macron showed him with the crown prince discussing French painter Eugene Delacroix's painting "Liberty Leading The People." The painting shows a woman with bare breasts and on the revolutionary barricades.

There was no public complaint from Saudi Arabia over the tweet.
TOKYO - An expert panel of the Environment Ministry started discussions Tuesday on issues related to genome editing technology, including the range of regulations that should apply to its use in food.

Genome editing technology allows genes to be modified for a particular purpose. In Japan, it is currently being used in the development of farm products and animals, including tomatoes rich in a substance that restricts increases in blood pressure, and madai red sea bream with increased muscle mass.

The panel members will discuss various issues, such as information control regarding the distribution of such products.

A genome contains all the genetic information about a living organism and is composed of a sequence of four types of bases inside the DNA of cells.

Genome editing technology can produce a genetically modified organism (GMO) by inserting a useful gene into the organism from an external source. It is also used for efficient breed improvement by scissioning an existing gene, so it will not function.

This scission technique is used in genome-edited living organisms developed in Japan. For example, the sea breams with greater muscle mass are produced by cutting out a gene that restricts muscle increase.

Production of a genetically modified organism is regulated by the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, based on an international framework. People who wish to grow such crops, for example, must receive approval from the government.

The panel will focus on the handling of genome-edited organisms produced with this gene scission technique. When this technique is used on an organism, it becomes impossible to tell whether the gene has been eliminated artificially or naturally, even when the organism's genes are examined.

At the meeting, the ministry will propose that such cases should be exempt from regulation by the protocol, and discuss the pros and cons of a system to track the information.

The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry, which manages food safety, is also planning to devise a legal framework by the end of fiscal 2018.

While Japan is accelerating discussion on the use of the technology, opinions are divided overseas. The U.S. Agriculture Department's policy is to not regulate genome edited crops that have not been modified with a gene from an external source. In Europe, where consumers are strongly opposed to genetically modified food, the European Court of Justice said in a July 25 statement that such organisms "are, in principle, subject to the obligations laid down by the GMO Directive."

"Safety and people's peace of mind are essential to the spread [of genome edited products]," said a committee member of the meeting.

"Even when it's decided that [some organisms] are exempt from the regulations, it's important that each ministry and agency concerned should gather information and create a system for information disclosure," said Nagoya University Professor Masashi Tachikawa, who is knowledgeable about the relationship between genome editing and society.

Consumers' concerns are the main worry in putting the technology to practical use. Farming of genetically engineered crops produced by technology other than genome editing became common practice overseas more than 20 years ago. In Japan, however, commercial farming of such products never took off, due to strong concerns among consumers.

According to the Council for Biotechnology Information Japan, pest-resistant corn, herbicide-resistant soybeans and other genetically modified crops were grown in 24 countries, including the United States, in 2017. Japan imported an estimated 20 million tons of such products yearly for cattle feed and edible oils.

There have been no reports of harm to people's health from such genetically modified crops, but a survey by the Cabinet Office's Food Safety Commission in fiscal 2016 found 35 percent of respondents were concerned about the safety of such products as food.

"Even if consumers may think genetic modification is not dangerous, they have a vague uneasiness. I think they have the same kind of concern about genome editing as well," consumer life adviser Emi Gamo said. "For genome-edited crops to be accepted, it's important to show consumers their actual merit."
TOKYO - U.S. sanctions against Iran could negatively impact Japan's auto manufacturers if auto exports to Iran are hurt by the sanctions.

According to the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, Japan exported 20,000 vehicles to Iran in 2017. Mitsubishi Motors Corp. has car dealerships there and annually exports several hundred vehicles to the country.
Margaret M. Heckler, an eight-term Republican congresswoman from Massachusetts who later became an embattled secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services under President Ronald Reagan before serving as U.S. ambassador to Ireland, died Aug. 6 at a hospital in Arlington, Virginia. She was 87.

The cause was cardiac arrest, said her daughter-in-law, Kim Heckler.

Throughout much of her career, Heckler was a groundbreaking figure who often forged her way in law and politics as one of the few women in the male-dominated fields. In 1966, she unseated a former speaker of the House to win the Republican nomination for her district in suburban Boston.

She was the first woman elected to Congress in her own right from Massachusetts and, when she took office in 1967, was one of only 11 women in the U.S. House of Representatives.

During her 16 years in the House, Heckler championed women's issues, including the Equal Rights Amendment and Title IX, which barred sex discrimination in education. In 1977, she was a co-founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Caucus for Women's Issues.

Her signature legislative achievement was the 1974 Equal Credit Opportunity Act, which prohibited banks and lending institutions from denying loans, credit and other financial services based on sex or marital status.

As a Republican from Massachusetts, Heckler often held positions that could typically be called liberal. Other than a long-held opposition to abortion rights, she had a voting record that was often out of step with her increasingly conservative GOP colleagues.

She often voted against military spending bills and opposed President Richard M. Nixon's conduct of the war in Vietnam. She also spoke out against Nixon's veto of day-care legislation, calling it "a serious setback to the concept of child development."

Throughout the 1970s, Heckler was a leading proponent of the Equal Rights Amendment, an effort to enshrine equal rights for women in the Constitution. When the ratification process slowed in the late 1970s, she was a co-sponsor of resolution to extend the deadline for states to approve the measure. She continued to argue in favor of the ERA at the 1980 Republican National Convention, even as her party grew less receptive to liberal views. (In the end, the ERA was not adopted.)

After redistricting, Heckler lost her congressional seat in 1982 to Democrat Barney Frank. Although she voted against the Reagan administration's positions more than any other Republican member of Congress, she was promptly nominated to became Reagan's second secretary of Health and Human Services, after the resignation of Richard Schweiker. She was confirmed in March 1983, after saying in her hearings, "I want to be a catalyst for caring in America."

At HHS, Heckler managed a department with 145,000 employees and a budget of about $300 billion. She was among the first high-ranking members of the Reagan administration to call for additional federal funding for AIDS research and treatments, calling it the country's "number one health priority."

She also expanded research into the growing problem of Alzheimer's disease. After White House counselor Edwin Meese publicly doubted whether hunger was a serious problem, Heckler addressed a group of homeless people, saying, "You have as much right to dignity and respect as anyone in this society."

Heckler ran into problems, however, on two fronts. First, her views were seen as too liberal by some conservative members of Congress and the White House, who wanted to rein in spending on Social Security and other programs.

Second, she and her husband went through a messy, headline-grabbing divorce. During the 1984 electoral season, her husband of 31 years, John Heckler, sued for divorce, saying he was "in fear of his life and limb and mental welfare."

His lawyers charged that Heckler had put her career ahead of their marriage and that their largely separate lives forced her husband "to a life of either celibacy or adultery." When the divorce was complete in 1985, the court records were sealed.

First lady Nancy Reagan was reportedly displeased by the airing of the Hecklers' dirty laundry. Heckler also cited a "campaign against me by some members of the White House staff" - principally, Chief of Staff Donald Regan - over what some called her indecisive management style.

Despite supportive words from the president, Heckler was eased out of her job as HHS secretary in October 1985 and offered the job of U.S. ambassador to Ireland. She served in that position until 1989.

Margaret Mary O'Shaughnessy was born June 21, 1931, in the Flushing section of Queens to Irish immigrants. Her father was a hotel doorman, her mother a homemaker.

A talented pianist in her youth, Heckler became drawn to politics as a student at Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, Connecticut, when she was elected to a statewide student legislative group.

"Up to that time, all I had ever dreamed about was being a concert pianist," she later said.

She was the only woman in her law school class at Boston College, graduating in 1956. While raising her family and practicing law, she served on an advisory council to the governor.

In 1966, Heckler defeated 42-year incumbent Joseph Martin, a former speaker of the House, in the Republican primary. She quoted from a speech Martin gave when he was first elected in 1924, saying a congressional seat was "a position for one in vigorous health if the people are to be adequately served."

Heckler's survivors include three children, Belinda Mulliken of Santa Clara, California, Alison Heckler of Salisbury, Maryland, and John Heckler Jr. of Arlington, Virginia; and four grandchildren.

After four years as U.S. ambassador to Ireland - where "I can take long walks, snatching breaths of the gorgeous Irish air," she said - Heckler retired to Arlington. She received numerous honorary degrees and was a member of a variety of boards, including the National Alliance for Hispanic Health.

When she was in Congress, she kept a sign on her desk that read: "Whatever women do, they must do twice as well as men to be thought half as good. Luckily, this is not difficult."
The Germanpublishing house Galiani Berlin with the support of the Georgian National Book Center published The Knight in the Panther's Skin (Vepkhistqaosani) by Georgia's poet Shota Rustaveli in Goethe's language for the first time. The German edition was prepared by the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung journalist, Tilman Spreckelsen. With illustrations by Kat Menshik. It's not a poetic or interlinear translation of a medieval poem, but its prose version.

Prior to the first edition of the poem in German, the delegation of Galiani Berlin visited Georgia within the framework of the project 'In the footsteps of Rustaveli trail'. The German guests, together with their Georgian counterparts, examined and studied geographical locations, folklore and ethnographic materials in Georgia's southern region Samtskhe-Javakheti, where, according to legend, Shota Rustaveli lived. The collected materials were studied and revised by the author together with other employees of the publishing house.

The book will be presented at the Frankfurt Book Fair-2018 together with other books published with the support of the Georgian National Book Center.

Until now, the most significant editions of The Knight in the Panther's Skin were the translation of English writer Marjory Wardrop, who worked on the book with her brother, diplomat Sir Oliver Wardrop, as well as Shalva Nutsubidze's famous poetic translation into Russian.

There is a legend in Georgia that Stalin personally edited Nutsubidze's translation and even offered the author his version of one of the verses, after which none of the Georgian experts on Rustaveli dared to criticize Shalva Nutsubidze's translation, fearing that they may incur the anger, because no one knows which part of the poem was translated by the leader.
WEST HAVEN  Water delivery and metering in West Haven is about to get more sophisticated, according to the water company.

About 13,000 South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority customers in West Haven are about to get the water industrys latest metering technology installed beginning next month, the RWA said in a news release.

The West Haven customers will join about 50,000 customers in the RWAs water district who already have received the upgrade.

The system will allow the authority to accurately read customers water meters by securely transmitting a low-powered signal from an advanced metering infrastructure, or AMI, endpoint (a small device connected to the meter) to the RWAs office.

Installation of the new technology will upgrade how the water authority receives water consumption information, the RWA said.

It also will eliminate the need for manually reading customers meters, provide early detection of water leaks and largely eliminate estimated water bills, the authority said.

Over the next two years, the water authority will deploy the new metering system to every customer in its 15-town service area, the release said.

Crews will be working in West Haven installing the AMI technology between now and the end of the year, said RWA spokesman Dan Doyle.

In about 70 percent of the cases, customers will have an older meter and replacing it with the AMI should take about 30 minutes, during which the customers water will have to be turned off, Doyle said.

The new technology allows us to identify water usage issues weeks earlier, he said.

In the long term, this is going to be a great benefit to our customers, Doyle said.

The RWA, which Doyle said is the first water utility in Connecticut to employ AMI technology, hired Contract Callers Inc., or CCI, to install the new advanced meter reading devices.

Installation involves attaching the AMI endpoint to the customers existing water meter, usually where the existing meter reading device is located, the release said.

In some cases, the RWA may need to install a new water meter to ensure compatibility with the device. There is no cost for the new meter reading device or the installation.

Customers should receive a letter and a flyer that explains what to expect. Information about the program is also located on the RWAs website at www.rwater.com/AMI.

To make it easier for customers to schedule an appointment, click on the live chat feature at the bottom of the Web page www.contractcallers.com/rwa.

For customers safety, all RWA and CCI personnel have identification badges. CCI installers wear blue uniforms with a CCI logo. They carry two forms of photo identification: an RWA contractor badge and a CCI badge.

The contractors vehicles are white and have CCI and RWA logos on both sides.

The RWA encourages customers to always ask for identification from anyone who comes to their door and to maintain a no identification  no entry policy, the release said

Customers can call the RWA at 203-562-4020 to verify that installers are working in their neighborhood. CCI also will register installation activities with local police departments and the RWA Police Department.

The South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority provides water and services to almost 430,000 people in 15 cities and towns throughout Greater New Haven.

The RWA owns, maintains and protects more than 27,000 acres of watershed land. For more information on the RWA, visit www.rwater.com.

mark.zaretsky@hearstmediact.com
People in the cannabis industry like to take pride in how inclusive the space is. However, anecdotal and statistic evidence suggests otherwise. A study conducted by Marijuana Business Daily found that only 19 percent of all cannabis businesses were majority owned by racial minorities.

Related: Why Are Only 4 Percent of Cannabis Businesses Owned By African Americans?

One of these businesses is 420 SkinCare, which makes THC- and CBD-infused skin care products. We talked to CEO and founder Marvina Thomas about her perspective on the industry.

How did you get in the cannabis business?

I originally got into the industry to help to help make a difference, and positively impact peoples health and well-being. Eight years ago, I started Vinas Soap to help financially support my nonprofit Start Living Recovery Home, which provides care and assistance for individuals recovering from opioids and alcohol. Vina Soap led to the launch of 420 Skincare, a product line which includes CBD and THC soap, as well as skin care products for all skin types. Over the past two years of market research, we have been able to see a significant increase in health improvements in those who use these products exclusively.

What are the challenges you face as a minority business owner?

We are constantly breaking the barriers! There arent a lot of colleagues who look like me, but we are helping change that by opening doors for those hungry to get into the green rush. We host monthly speed-hiring events and always carry an open door policy for those who want information on how to land their own canna-business.

What challenges did you face in your own business?

Im facing a new challenge every day. The only way to survive in this fast-paced industry is to keep pushing forward and never let someone else determine your future. Youre gonna face haters and negative people, but you cant let their limiting beliefs stop you from achieving what you came here to do.

Can you share some advice for other minorities who are looking to get into the cannabis industry?

There are lots of networking and educational groups for those new to the industry. As the regional leader for WomenGROW, a national group for cannabis entrepreneurs, I help organize meetings in Phoenix to educate and motivate women who are interested in entering the medical cannabis industry. I also recently spoke about diversity at WomenGROWs Denver summit.

My advice is to join a group, attend an industry conference, and learn as much as you can before you start a business.

Related: How To Convince Cannabis Investors to Give You Money

If you had to pick one inspirational quote, what would that be?

Everybody has a book and only you know the last chapter.

You can find Marvina Thomas on social media under the name @420skincare.

Related:

She Wants to Change the Face of the Industry

She Took Her Yale MBA Into Cannabis and Now Funds the Industry's Largest Deals

Why These Teenage Girls Started a CBD Lifestyle Brand



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BEIRUT - Syria on Tuesday accused Israel of assassinating a top Syrian rocket scientist over the weekend, heightening the growing tensions between the two countries as Syrian government troops restore control over areas bordering Israel.

Aziz Asbar, a research director at Syria's Scientific Studies and Research Center, was killed on Saturday by an explosive device targeting his car in the town of Masyaf in Syria's Hama province, according to Syria's official news agency SANA.

The center has long been linked by intelligence agencies to Syria's chemical weapons program, and Israeli warplanes are suspected to have targeted the center's facility on at least two occasions over the past year, in September and July.

Syrian press reports blamed Israel's Mossad intelligence agency for the killing and said Asbar had survived two previous assassination attempts, also by Israeli agents. According to the al-Watan daily newspaper, he was killed because of his "important" work on Syrian defense systems.

"Yet again the Israeli enemy has assassinated one of the greatest Syrian minds," al-Watan said in a commentary on Tuesday.

Also on Tuesday, the New York Times quoted an unnamed official with a Middle Eastern intelligence organization as confirming that Israel was responsible for the attack. The newspaper said Asbar had been collaborating with the commander of Iran's Quds Force, General Qasem Soleimani, on the production of precision-guided missiles in Syria.

An Israeli government spokesman declined to comment on the allegations.

If the assassination was carried out by Mossad, it was the latest in a long line of Israeli attacks targeting Syrian weapons capabilities and development. Israel has carried out more than 100 airstrikes against targets in Syria since 2012 aimed either at Iranian military facilities or at attempts to transfer sophisticated weapons to the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon.

The Syrian Scientific Research Center has long been a focus of international efforts to curtail Syria's capacity to develop weapons of mass destruction, including chemical and biological weapons. A branch of the center outside Damascus was among the targets of U.S. strikes against Syria in April, and the institution has been sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury Department since 2005.

After the Syrian government carried out what independent inspectors said was a sarin gas attack that killed as many as a 100 people in the town of Khan Sheikhoun in 2017, the United States also sanctioned 271 individuals associated with the center.

Asbar was not among them, perhaps because he was associated with Syria's missile program rather than the development of chemical weapons.

According to al-Watan daily newspaper, Syrian authorities had twice detained cells of local suspects allegedly recruited by Mossad who were engaged in monitoring Asbar's movements. A faction of the main al-Qaida affiliate in Syria called Abu Amara claimed responsibility, but was working on behalf of Israel, the newspaper said.

Syria's missile development is a top concern of Israel, in part because of its worries over the expanding influence of Iran there.

The attack comes as Syrian troops regain territory along the 1974 demarcation line separating the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights from Syria. The two countries have been in a state of war since 1967, when Israel occupied the Golan Heights, and although no shots have been fired since the 1974 cease-fire, Syrian President Bashar Assad continues to press for the return of the territory.

Syrian troops returned to the Golan Heights area last week after rebels who had controlled the area surrendered, restoring the status quo that had prevailed before the Syrian civil war. Their standoff now however has been further complicated by the extensive presence in Syria of Iran, which maintains advisers and allied militias embedded with the Syrian army.

Russia has been working to bring back United Nations truce observers into the area, but Israel continues to assert that it will take whatever action it sees fit to prevent Iran from establishing a permanent foothold in Syria, along its borders and elsewhere.

In an interview last week with Israel Radio, Israel's minister for regional cooperation, Tzachi Hanegbi, cited Israel's fears about the development of Iran's missile capabilities in Syria as a top concern.

"What we have laid down as a red line is military intervention and entrenchment by Iran in Syria, and not necessarily on our border," he said.

- - -

The Washington Post's Loveday Morris contributed from Jerusalem.
President Donald Trump will travel to Upstate New York on Monday to sign a sweeping, $716 billion defense bill that sets policy priorities for the Pentagon and is named after one of the president's most pointed Republican critics.

Trump will head to Fort Drum, represented by Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., to sign the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act, named after the Arizona senator and war hero who has been absent from the Senate this year as he undergoes treatment for brain cancer.

"I am proud of the partnership with this administration to begin rebuilding our military and the president's visit is an important opportunity to highlight this achievement and to thank our men and women in uniform for their service," Stefanik said in a statement announcing Trump's visit. "I look forward to welcoming President Trump to Fort Drum and continuing to work to ensure our troops have the resources they need to keep us safe."

Though physically absent from the Senate, McCain has remained one of Trump's sharpest critics from his own party - be it the president's performance abroad last month alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin, or the administration's zero-tolerance policy that prompted separations of immigrant families at the border.

In turn, Trump repeatedly references McCain during campaign rallies, although not by name. Trump singles out the Arizona senator for voting against the Senate Republican plan to repeal the Affordable Care Act, often referencing the dramatic moment on the Senate floor last July when McCain helped kill the GOP bill with a thumbs-down vote.

But the annual defense policy measure is an overwhelmingly bipartisan measure that helps Trump boast of resources for the military, a top priority for the president. This year's version, sent to the White House for Trump's signature last week, also avoided potential political land mines that would have pushed back on some controversial administration policies.

For one, lawmakers got rid of a provision to undo the Trump's administration's agreement to ease penalties on the Chinese telecom giant ZTE. Several congressional Republicans had denounced the deal with ZTE, which had faced penalties for doing business with Iran and North Korea, but ultimately the administration's side won out.

McCain chairs the Senate Armed Services Committee, although Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., had handled much of the day-to-day work in McCain's absence. Last year, Trump signed the annual defense authorization measure with a ceremony at the White House, flanked by top military officials and key lawmakers.

While in upstate New York on Monday, Trump will also participate in a fundraiser for Rep. Claudia Tenney, R-N.Y., according to The Post-Standard in Syracuse.
This week, Kazakhstan will host a summit of the heads of the Caspian states, during which the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea is expected to be signed. The document was developed for more than 20 years. Correspondent of RIA Novosti Vugar Hasanov spoke with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov about the difficulties of the talks, some aspects of the convention, as well as the details of the upcoming summit.

- How does Azerbaijan assess the forthcoming Caspian summit in Kazakhstan? Will the Draft Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea be signed?

- I must say at once that the tremendous work carried out for many years brought its fruits, which allowed reaching an agreement on the draft Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea. This created all the necessary prerequisites for its signing at the 5th summit of the heads of the Caspian states in Kazakhstan.

- Did Baku have any special comments on the text of the Convention? Was there any discussion on this issue with other Caspian countries, in particular with Russia?

- All countries had comments on the text of the Convention. This is a very common international practice for the development of such types of legal documents. As everyone knows, in 1996 an ad hoc working group was set up at the level of deputy ministers of foreign affairs of the Caspian littoral states on the development of the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea. 51 meetings were held within the framework of this format. Naturally, during the whole period of coordinating the positions of the sides, the contacts were made between the participants, including the traditional Azerbaijani-Russian consultations on the Caspian issues.

- As far as we know, under the draft convention, the countries agreed to the military non-presence of third countries in the Caspian. How problematic is the implementation of this issue, taking into account the processes in the region, and the interest of third countries in such presence?

- The parties signing this kind of document, thereby consolidate the rights reflected in it and assume the obligations arising from it. Proceeding from the universal principle of pacta sunt servanda, we should firmly adhere to those provisions that are established in the convention. The non-presence in the Caspian of the armed forces of the non-coastal countries is one of such agreed points. On the whole, the document proclaims that the Caspian is a zone of peace, good-neighborliness, friendship and cooperation. It is and must remain the bridge that unites our countries, not limiting, but expanding their capabilities, providing each of them with optimal conditions for the development of the national economy. The Caspian countries have long enjoyed their rights and, within the framework of international cooperation, have created an efficient infrastructure for the exploitation of their resources. An appropriate investment climate has been created. The successes of our countries stipulate their positive attitude to the further development of cooperation in the Caspian, based on the existing mechanisms of confidence-building measures and partnership for the benefit of everyone.

- Do you plan to hold bilateral talks between the Azerbaijani president and the leaders of the Caspian states, including the Russian president? What is the main agenda of the meetings?

- The experience of the previous Caspian summit shows that they are also becoming a platform for holding bilateral meetings of the heads of state. At the same time, it is quite obvious that the main focus of the meetings in this five-sided format is on the Caspian issues, the organization of our cooperation in the Caspian, including security, transport, economic cooperation and the protection of biological resources.

- At what stage is the settlement of the Karabakh problem? Is there a likelihood of progress? How do you assess the contacts with your Armenian counterpart?

- The negotiation process on the settlement of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict, mediated by the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs, has been going on for many years. As established in the document on its mandate, the Minsk Group is guided in its activities by the relevant norms and principles of the international law, the resolutions of the UN Security Council and the provisions of the Helsinki Final Act. The international community supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan within the internationally recognized borders. The settlement of the conflict should be based precisely on these key provisions. I would like to reiterate that the UN Security Council resolutions 822 (1993), 853 (1993), 874 (1993), 884 (1993), adopted on this subject, urgently demand the immediate, complete and unconditional withdrawal of the occupation forces from the territories of the Azerbaijan Republic that they have occupied. As everybody knows, the UN Security Council resolutions do not have a statute of limitations and are subject to execution.

A step-by-step settlement model, proposed by the co-chairs of the Minsk Group, has long been known to everyone. In the joint statements of the heads of Russia, the United States and France, the position on the unacceptability of the status quo based on the fact of occupation was repeatedly voiced. Alas, so far we have not been able to put an end to it. To advance the settlement process, we need to ensure the intensification of substantive negotiations on the basis of the existing format and within the existing agenda.

- According to the statement of the OSCE Minsk Group, the next meeting of the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia should be held soon. Is the date and place of the meeting already known?

- The meeting that was held in Brussels was the first meaningful contact with my new Armenian counterpart. As I have already noted, we are focused on the result and are ready to continue the intensive substantive dialogue in this direction. The places and dates of these meetings are technical moments, negotiated through the appropriate channels.

- Russia is considered the main moderator of the Karabakh settlement process. Is the meeting planned to be in the Moscow-Baku-Yerevan format?

- I repeat, Azerbaijan is open to the dialogue. But this should be meaningful and responsible negotiations focused on the result - the earliest start of the process of de-occupation of the territories of Azerbaijan. The Gordian knot was formed around this issue and it should be cut finally. Then the solution of all derivative problems that are more technical in nature will acquire a completely different character and will not be associated with such difficulties.

- What are the results of the new EU-Azerbaijan agreement? Will it be signed in 2018?

- The dialogue between Azerbaijan and the EU is being conducted for a long time on the basis of equality and mutually beneficial cooperation between the parties. The contacts recently held in Brussels with the leadership of the European Union demonstrated the correctness and justification of this approach. The process is developing in the right direction and will lead us to the signing of the big agreement between two equal partners - Azerbaijan and the European Union.

- Is visa-free regime between Baku and the EU countries possible?

- Azerbaijan already has an effective mechanism of simplified visa issuance for the EU residents. The interaction in this sphere is successfully developing and will reach a level that meets the interests of both sides.

- Will Azerbaijan continue to pursue a balanced foreign policy, or will a choice be made in favor of any particular political or economic bloc?

- The foreign policy of Azerbaijan is not based on the principle of whether this or that, but has a balanced, multivectoral and inclusive character. We are confident that this course will continue to bear fruit and serve the course of our people and the region as a whole.
Nearly a week after he walked out of his Chambers County home and vanished, search teams on Tuesday found the body of Baytown police officer John Stewart Beasley, obscured from view in remote field near Baytown.

The 23-year veteran officer, described by his colleagues as "positive" and "upbeat" had apparently killed himself.

His suicide - likely from a self-inflicted gunshot wound - sent shock waves through the department where his colleagues couldn't even remember another officer who committed suicide.

"This hurts," said Baytown police Detective Bill Nelson, a local union chapter president who was friends with Beasley. "It hits close to home for a lot of people."

Nationwide, police suicides appear to be on the rise, though it's difficult to find concrete statistics as many departments don't track the data - especially in small offices like the 176-person Baytown force.

'LITTLE JACOB' SAGA: Mother of child found dead on beach indicted by Galveston County grand jury

In the weeks leading up to his death, Beasley's colleagues didn't see anything amiss. The 46-year-old was a weightlifting enthusiast and personal trainer who loved baseball and blogged about fitness on the department's intranet system.

"He was one of the those guys, he would talk to just about anybody," said Lt. Steve Dorris. "A friend of mind - a friend of anybody in the organization."

Beasley handled some of the department's community relations work and had just bought a three-acre piece of property, where spent all his free time mowing and clearing out brush in hopes of building a house for his wife and son.

Hours before his disappearance on Thursday, he'd gone out and visited the lot, then stopped by the police station.

He never returned.

When his family realized he was missing Thursday afternoon, they called police. From the start, authorities said there were no signs of foul play. Investigators at the house in Cove had spotted troubling "indications" about the cause of the officer's disappearance, according to Chambers County Sheriff Brian Hawthorne.

"He'd laid out his gun belt," the sheriff said. He declined to specify what other red flags worried investigators and family members.

"We were in hopes that he was just trying to take some time away from the stress of work and life," Hawthorne added. "That's not what it turned into."

For days, authorities mounted a search, summoning the manpower of the sheriff's office, Baytown police, canines, and the Austin-based volunteer group Texas Search & Rescue. When they came back empty-handed the first time, search crews kept on trying.

"Each time we searched we just kept expanding," Hawthorne said.

Early on, investigators recovered Beasley's cell phone in a field - a development that gave them false hope.

"We thought maybe that his intent was to go off the grid," Hawthorne said. But the hunt continued, and on Tuesday morning search crews decided to take another pass over the area in a helicopter.

In an agricultural field three-quarters of a mile from the missing man's home, searchers made the discovery they'd feared.

Far enough from the house to avoid being spotted, and close enough to the highway to cover the sound, Beasley had apparently shot himself.

"We're all just kind of numb and shocked by it," Dorris said.

Suicide has been a growing problem in police ranks. Nationally, the number of officer suicides outpaced line-of-duty deaths last year. The nonprofit group Badge of Life - which informally tracks such fatalities - reported 140 officers died at their own hands in 2017, up from 108 in 2016.

But it's hard to get a more precise figures because there's no federal database on police suicides, and many departments across the country don't officially track those deaths, according to a Chronicle review earlier this year.

"We could be losing 300 to 400 officers a year to suicide but that is only my professional opinion because we don't really know," Robert Douglas, executive director of the National Police Suicide Foundation, said in April. "None of us truly know how serious the issue is."

Aside from lax tracking, many departments don't have targeted mental health support for suicidal officers, according to a Ruderman Family Foundation study. Just 3 to 5 percent of police departments have suicide prevention training programs, the foundation's analysis found.

Baytown Police Department has chaplains, peer counseling, and an Employee Assistance Program for mental health referrals. But as a small department the city doesn't have the funding for full-time staff psychologists the way that larger departments like Houston police do.

And even when there is help available, Dorris said, sometimes seasoned officers are reluctant to make use of it.

"We're supposed to be the ones that stand in the face of evil and deal with the chaos and trauma and problems of society," he said. "But we don't want to admit we have a problem when it comes to that."
America's top nuclear commander warned Tuesday that Russia and China are not "our friends" as Moscow and Beijing sprint to develop hypersonic weapons, a threat the United States currently cannot defend against.

"You can't call them [Russia and China] our friends if they're building weapons that can destroy the United States of America and, therefore, we have to develop the capability to respond," Air Force Gen. John Hyten, commander of U.S. Strategic Command said at the Space and Missile Defense Symposium in Huntsville, Alabama, CNBC reported.

Hyten added that the Pentagon has nearly a dozen programs tasked with developing and defending against the new breed of weapons.

"I always wish we started [working on hypersonics] five years ago or 10 years ago because then we wouldn't be worried ... but we didn't so we have to step up now, and we are," he said.
Black students in Fort Bend ISD were six times more likely to receive out-of-school suspensions than white students and four times as likely to be placed on in-school suspensions, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

Federal investigators identified several likely culprits that led to the disproportionate punishments, including a vague code of conduct that left discipline decisions in the hands of select school administrators while giving them a slew of different punishments they could prescribe for similar misbehavior. It also determined that the districts failure to track students referred to law enforcement made it nearly impossible to determine whether minorities were referred more often than others.

Those concerns and statistics, however, were missing from a press release issued by the district on July 26, which touted an end to the education departments six-year Office of Civil Rights investigation.

2018-19 SCHOOL YEAR: All HISD students eligible for 3 free meals

District officials wrote the department did not find any wrongdoing on their part. They did not acknowledge that investigators identified large racial disparities in its disciplinary practices or that black students continue to be overrepresented across all five types of harsher punishments tracked by the Texas Education Agency.

Nor did the release mention a resolution agreement or the five corrective steps school officials must take to satisfy the Office of Civil Rights, mentioning only that Fort Bend ISD will continue to review and provide training regarding its discipline policies and procedures and will track and monitor discipline data.

What the district failed to mention is the reason there wasnt a finding of discrimination is because they entered into voluntary resolution process, and OCR guidelines state there wont be findings of discrimination in these instances, said Deborah Fowler, executive director of the education advocacy group Texas Appleseed. Its not until you actually see the resolution letter that you realize how much they actually did find and some very large concerns they expressed.

Fort Bend ISD Superintendent Charles Dupre disagreed. In an interview last week, he said schools across the country struggle with racial gaps in discipline and that larger trends and patterns found in his district do not equate to wrongdoing or discrimination on the districts part.

I dont think were discriminating, but thats not to say there are not isolated cases that need to be addressed, Dupre said. The point Im trying to make is that theres nothing hidden. Everything they said or identified, we also identified and are working on to address.

Discipline rates in the 72,000-student district have fallen significantly since Dupre became superintendent in April 2013. The number of students placed on out-of-school suspensions dropped by half, from 5,876 in 2011-2012 to 2,891 in 2016-2017, according to the Texas Education Agency. Students given in-school suspensions dropped from 8,420 students to 3,595 during the same period.

The district also has implemented restorative discipline practices aimed at preventing poor behavior rather than punishing it in many of its schools and created a Department of Student Affairs to look into disciplinary disparities over the past several years.

Vanesia Johnson, a social worker who created the Citizens Advocating for Social Equity group after she said her son unfairly was given an out-of-school suspension in a Fort Bend ISD elementary school, said the districts representation of the investigations end is deceptive.

Im used to much more transparency with the district because of my outreach efforts, Johnson said. Now, Im just suspicious.

Even though the overall number of Fort Bend students disciplined has decreased, black students were much more likely to be given the severest punishments than their white, Asian and Hispanic peers. In fact, a higher proportion of black students were placed on in-school and out-of-school suspensions in 2016-2017 than before the U.S. Department of Education investigation began.

Black students represented about 64 percent of all students given out-of-school suspensions in 2016-2017, even though only about 28 percent of the Fort Bend ISD student population was African American. About 60 percent of students given out-of-school suspensions in 2011 were black.

Meanwhile, white students comprised about 7 percent of students given the same punishment in 2016-2017, even though they made up about 17 percent of all Fort Bend ISD students. That is down from the 8.7 percent share of students who received out-of-school suspensions in 2011.

That disparity exists at varying degrees for four of the five harsher punishments the TEA tracks: in-school suspensions, out-of-school suspensions, disciplinary alternative education program placement and juvenile justice alternative education program placement. The TEA also tracks expulsions, but the district did not expel any students in 2016-2017.

The punishment gaps exist throughout the state of Texas and in the TEAs Region 4, which surrounds much of the greater Houston area. Bob Sanborn, president and CEO of the Children at Risk nonprofit advocacy group, blamed institutional racism and cultural differences between white teachers and the students of color they encounter.

Its not that students of colors judgment is different from any other young kid. Its that the punishments are significantly more severe, Sanborn said. The idea of pursuing justice is very different for black and Latino students than it is for white students. The data is pretty clear on this. Theres just inequity.

Over the course of six years, federal investigators visited Fort Bend ISD schools several times, to collect data and interview those on campuses.

Among their findings: Data analysis showed black students who were slapped with dress code violations at Elkins High school were nearly twice as likely to receive in-school suspensions than their white peers. While a black student at Quail Run Middle received one day of in-school suspension and one day of out-of-school suspension for making a derogatory statement, a white student accused of the same infraction received only a parent conference and a notation that the student will think before he speaks. Of 14 white students referred to Sugar Land Middle administrators for first-offense tardiness, only one was given detention. Of 17 black students sent to the office for the same infraction, six were given detention slips.

The investigation laid out several concerns that may have contributed to the difference in punishments. Chief among them was the districts code of conduct, which investigators found to be so vague that it gave administrators wide latitude to choose punishments for different students.

The remedies for those issues proposed by Fort Bend ISD and accepted by the OCR, however, do not include mandatory fixes to the code of conduct or changes to how offenses are categorized. Instead, the OCR allowed the district to set up a framework to oversee itself. District administrators will determine whether changes to Fort Bend ISDs existing code of conduct are necessary. Administrators will review their own data at the end of the upcoming school year to see if discipline practices still over-punish black students.

The remedies amount to little in Fowler and Johnsons eyes.

To me, its hard to see what the OCR really brought to the table in terms of their enforcement authority and their ability to engage in this resolution process to bring about meaningful change, Fowler said. This is an example of the OCR totally abdicating its responsible for enforcing civil rights law.

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The U.S. DOEs Office of Civil Rights has come under criticism in recent months by some education advocates who say it is scuttling discrimination investigations, has weakened its enforcement of rules relating to equal treatment and has made it more difficult for complainants to dispute their findings. Investigative outlet ProPublica obtained a 2017 internal memo from the OCRs former head, telling investigators to stop looking at cases as systemic issues and nixed a requirement that investigators review three years of data in discipline and sexual violence investigations.

In May, the NAACP and other groups filed a federal lawsuit against the U.S. DOE after it changed its case-processing manual and made it more difficult for groups to file multiple complaints and appeal department findings.

Dupre also groused over the departments handling of the case, which he said languished for years with no communication from federal officials. Such cases typically are to be resolved within 180 days, department policy states.

If they had done their job, they would have come in, done their work and issued findings in a short order. It should not have dragged on for six years, Dupre said. They did not do their job.

shelby.webb@chron.com

twitter.com/shelbywebb
Area schools are gearing up for the first day of classes with immunization clinics and backpack giveaways for students over the next few weeks.

FREE MEALS: All Houston ISD students eligible for 3 free meals in 2018-19

Many districts in Harris County start on either Aug. 15, Aug. 20 or Aug. 27. Some districts also have earlier start dates for high school freshmen.

Houston ISD is hosting a "Back to School Extravaganza" on Aug. 17 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Delmar Stadium, 2020 Mangum Road. Free health screenings will be available, as well as free assistance with Medicaid applications, Children's Health Insurance Plan (CHIP) renewals and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The event will also include free immunizations, fresh produce, backpacks, school supplies and shoes.

Cy-Fair ISD is hosting their own back to school expo Aug. 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Berry Center at 8877 Barker Cypress Road. The event will offer vision screenings, immunizations, and physical exams. School supplies will also be sold.

Other districts are offering school supply packs or health screenings in the coming weeks. Similar services will be available at the mayor's "Back 2 School Fest" starting Saturday.

See when Houston-area districts go back to school in the gallery above.

Julian Gill is a digital reporter in Houston. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, houstonchronicle.com. | julian.gill@chron.com
The US resumed the sanctions against Iran following Washingtons withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). The restrictions will cover the automotive sector, the purchase and sale of gold and key metals.

US State Department Director of Policy Planning Brian Hook noted that the sanctions against Iran will be resumed in two stages - on August 7 and on November 4. It is expected that the first part of the restrictive measures will cover the automotive sector of Iran and the purchase and sale of gold and other key metals, and the remaining sanctions, which will be introduced by the end of autumn, will affect Iran's energy sector, oil-related deals, as well as transactions with the central Bank of Iran.

According to Hook, Washingtons "goal is to increase pressure on the Iranian regime by reducing to zero its revenue on crude oil sales." Hook noted that the US authorities are working on how to minimize the destabilization of the global market. He added that Washington is confident that there are sufficient opportunities to increase oil production.

The first batch will kick in on August 7 (at midnight on August 6 - US time), 90 days after the countrys withdrawal; the second round will take effect on 4 November, at the 180-day mark after the US departure. The transition period was intended to provide companies already doing business with Iran some time to wind down their activities.

On May 8, US President Donald Trump announced his countrys withdrawal from JCPOA and promised not only to resume the old sanctions but also to introduce new ones against Iran.

On May 18, the European Commission passed the first package of measures on protecting the interests of EU companies investing in Iran from US sanctions, nullifying them on the EU territory.

The first step was to activate the "blocking statute" that "forbids EU companies from complying with the extraterritorial effects of US sanctions, allows companies to recover damages arising from such sanctions from the person causing them, and nullifies the effect in the EU of any foreign court judgments based on them," the document says.

The second step will be to "remove obstacles for the European Investment Bank (EIB) to decide under the EU budget guarantee to finance activities outside the European Union, in Iran."

The European Commission will also "continue and strengthen the ongoing sectoral cooperation with, and assistance to, Iran, including in the energy sector and with regard to small and medium-sized companies."

The European Commission is also encouraging member-states to "explore the possibility of one-off bank transfers to the Central Bank of Iran." "This approach could help the Iranian authorities to receive their oil-related revenues, particularly in case of US sanctions which could target EU entities active in oil transactions with Iran," the document says.

The deputy head of the Council of the Russian Diplomats Association, Andrey Baklanov, speaking to Vestnik Kavkaza, noted that this step is a continuation of US destabilization policy toward the Middle East. "By withdrawing from the JCPOA and restoring sanctions, the US has firmly resolved to create instability in the Middle East, and continue to promote formation of two seriously opposing groups of states, led by Saudi Arabia and Iran. Trump came to the conclusion that without rebuilding such an environment and giving Iran the status of a source of great danger, it is impossible to ensure the export of weapons planned by the Americans for the coming years," he explained.

"Washington is trying, with the help of unilateral sanctions, to accustom the whole world to the fact that any business needs to consider the American political will. Of course, it is also beneficial to American companies and is one of Trump's goals. However, judging by the reaction of Western Europe, it may cause a resistance unpleasant for the US," Andrei Baklanov pointed out.

The diplomat drew attention to the fact that the issue of sanctions is very important for Iran. "When I was in Iran, it seemed to me that the issue of lifting sanctions is of a national nature there. It is necessary to proceed from the fact that everyone is interested in the abolition of economic restrictions, and only the US seeks to involve Iran in a tougher confrontation with neighbors. Hassan Rouhani has already made tough statements about both sanctions and Trump, and we have to state that the US hope for the division of the Middle East is beginning to work. Due to sanctions the regional situation becomes increasingly tough and dangerous," he stressed.

"At the same time, we can expect Iran's return to a well-thought-out and successful compensatory policy. When the previous sanctions were introduced, the people's living conditions worsened, many contracts broke down, but Iran did not give up. With such a fragmented front of Western countries, it is possible that Iran will have new opportunities to conduct a flexible line bypassing the sanctions regime," the deputy head of the Council of the Russian Diplomats Association concluded.
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz has asked President Donald Trump to come to Texas to campaign for him.

During a campaign stop in Seguin late Monday, Cruz said he has reached out to his former rival for the White House to help him with his re-election effort against Democrat Beto ORourke.

I would certainly welcome his support, and I hope to see him in Texas, Cruz said, standing outside the Dixie Grill in Seguin. I think we are likely to see the president down in Texas before the election.

Cruz said while his relationship with Trump has had its ups and downs due to their 2016 GOP primary battle, he has tried to become an ally to the president. He said he has been in constant contact with the White House and Trump directly to offer his help in getting legislation through the Senate.

At HoustonChronicle.com: Beto has Ted Cruz running scared [Opinion]

Were talking to the White House every week, sometimes every day, Cruz said. Ive been proud to lead the effort to bring Republicans together.

Trump is in full campaign mode, having held rallies in Florida and Ohio over the last week. Trump has been to Texas five times since he became president, but has not held a big rally like those hes done in the last week in other places. In May he spoke at a Republican fundraiser that was closed to the media and before that he spoke to the National Rifle Associations annual conference in Dallas where he endorsed Cruzs re-election.

Cruz is facing a tougher re-election campaign than many first expected. Polls from the last week have shown Cruz holding onto a single-digit lead over ORourke, a congressman from El Paso who has set records for Democrats fundraising in Texas.

Cruz told supporters in Seguin that he faces a real race and cannot afford for his supporters to be complacent. He said conservatives outnumber liberals in Texas, but if Republicans dont get fired up and get out to vote, he could be in big trouble.

jeremy.wallace@chron.com

Twitter.com/JeremySWallace
The Georgian Dream ruling party will not nominate its candidate for 2018 presidential elections, the partys Executive Secretary and Speaker of the Parliament Irakli Kobakhidze said.

"A meeting was held with the participation of the political board, parliamentary majority and government members. We discussed several important political issues, including the participation of the Georgian Dream in the presidential election," he said.

"On the basis of the discussion, we made a decision that the Georgian Dream will not nominate its candidate for the presidential election," RIA Novosti cited Kobakhidze as saying.

It is not yet clear which of the candidates will be supported by the ruling party, but according to Georgian media reports, it is likely that it will be ex-Foreign Minister Salome Zurabishvili.
The "Brady Bunch" house's mystery buyer has been revealed: After an intense bidding war erupted to purchase the iconic property made famous by the '70s sitcom, news has surfaced that the winning offer came not from an individual (sorry, Lance Bass), but cable channel HGTV.

While the house was listed for $1,885,000, it's currently unknown just how high HGTV had to go to seal the deal. But CEO David Zaslav of parent company Discovery did much to assure fans that they have grand plans to "restore the 'Brady Bunch' home to its 1970s glory as only HGTV can."

This sounds great in theory, but what will it take to make that happen?

Inside the 'Brady Bunch' house: How it looks now

Granted, the house that HGTV bought was used only for exterior shots on the show; any "Brady Bunch" shenanigans inside the home were filmed far, far away in a Hollywood studio.

Nonetheless, if the cable network plans to truly please this show's many fans, one would hope that it aims to renovate the home's interior to match what we grew up glued to on TV.

And, well, based on the current listing photos, let's just say that HGTV has a whole lot of work to do. Here are just a few of the key things that'll need to change, big-time, to turn this place into the "Brady Bunch" house we know and love.

Drab down the exterior

Here's what the house looked like on the "Brady Bunch" (along with a very '70s station wagon parked out front) and, below that, how the house looks in real life if you did a drive-by today. All in all, it looks like the home's soon-to-be-ex-owners didn't do much to the outside other than add a stone fence and maybe jazz up the color.

Oh, and that extra window on the left? As any "Brady Bunch" fan will tell you, that's actually a fake window hung on the exterior just for the show, much like a picture frame on a wall. Hmm, we wonder if HGTV will install a fake window or the real thing.

The front exterior of the house as it appeared on the "Brady Bunch" CBS/YouTube

How the house currently looks, in real life realtor.com

Lay on the wood paneling

Wood paneling was the shiplap of the '70swhich is why it was everywhere in the "Brady Bunch" home, particularly the den. While the actual house today has some wood paneling, it's not enough, not by far. It's time to cover up all that clean white paint with some dark wood boards, pronto.

A Brady family talk, surrounded by cozy wood panelling CBS/YouTube

This actual house has some wood paneling, but not enough. realtor.com

Orange up the kitchen

Remember how orange the "Brady Bunch" kitchen was? Orange backsplash, orange counters, orange tablethe hue even rubbed off on the sartorial choices of the family patriarch. We're amazed their maid (yes, they called them that back then), Alice, wasn't forced to wear an orange apron.

Currently, however, the kitchen has no orange in sightjust a whole lot of white countertops and wood cabinets. So, HGTV had better break out the orange paint, orange tiles, orange everything. Then add a splash of mint green.

The "Brady Bunch" kitchen had a whole lot of orange. CBS/YouTube

The actual kitchen is mostly white and brown. realtor.com

Tear down the wallpaper

While wallpaper was definitely a thing in the '70s, the "Brady Bunch" bedrooms weren't hip to this trend. So, down the wallpaper must come. Which, in this case, we think is a good thing. All that pink toile is a bit much, particularly how it matches the bedspread.

The Brady girls' bedroom had walls painted pink. CBS/YouTube

One of the bedrooms in the actual house realtor.com

Add levels

Last but not least, let's not forget that the "Brady Bunch" house was a split-level, which means it had many levels connected by short flights of stairs. It looks like the house currently has the same architecture going on, but are the ups and downs in the right places?

It's hard to say, but we'd wager that fans of the show will take note if anything (and we really do mean anything) is off base.

The "Brady Bunch" house had many levels connected by short flights of stairs. CBS/YouTube

This sunken dining room is connected to the rest of the house by a short set of stairs. realtor.com

All of this is a way to say that HGTV may have a long, grueling renovation on its hands if it hopes to bring the "Brady Bunch" house up to snuff. But hey, isn't that the stuff stellar renovation reality TV dreams are made of?

The post Can HGTV Bring Back the 'Brady Bunch' House? Pics Reveal What It'll Take appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov plans to participate in a meeting of the top diplomats of the Caspian states scheduled to take place in Kazakhstans city of Aktau on August 11, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Grigory Karasin said.

"Sergey Lavrov plans to take part in a meeting of the foreign ministers of the Caspian states," TASS cited Karasin as saying.

The meeting will be held ahead of the Fifth Caspian summit, which will involve the leaders of Russia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Iran and Turkmenistan. The five Caspian states are expected to adopt the Convention on the legal status of the Caspian Sea, which was agreed on by the five states foreign ministers at their Moscow meeting on December 4-5, 2017.

The legal status of the Caspian Sea remains the key issue discussed at the regional countries summits.
Revisions to Areas of Training List part of broader changes to Quebec's immigration system

Quebec Skilled Worker Program releases 2018 Areas of Training List Revisions to Areas of Training List part of broader changes to Quebec's immigration system

Quebec Skilled Worker Program releases 2018 Areas of Training List Revisions to Areas of Training List part of broader changes to Quebec's immigration system

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Updates to Quebecs Areas of Training List are giving a new edge to foreign degrees in actuarial science, information management and early childhood education, among others.

The Areas of Training List provides the number of points awarded for specified foreign and Quebec university, college and secondary-level vocational degrees under the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), the provinces most popular immigration pathway.

Area of Training is one of the 10 factors that are considered under the QSWPs points grid and can be worth up to 12 points.

Actuarial science, information management and early childhood education are among the seven most valuable foreign degrees, receiving the maximum 12 points under the updated list.

List linked to new Expression of Interest system

The revised Areas of Training List is one of a number of key changes to Quebecs immigration system that came into effect August 2.

Chief among these is Quebecs move to a new Expression of Interest (EOI) system for the QSWP, which will rank eligible candidates based on factors that now include work experience in the United States. This innovation makes Quebec the only Canadian province at the moment to specifically award points for U.S. work experience.

The EOI system replaces the first-come, first-served approach that Quebec had used to manage applications to the QSWP. This means that, rather than opening periodically for a set number of applications, Quebec will now require anyone who wants to be considered through the QSWP to submit an Expression of Interest profile to its Immigration Ministry (MIDI).

Profiles will be entered into a bank of candidates from which MIDI will select those who meet labour market needs and are most likely to integrate successfully into the the provinces economy and society, among other possible considerations.

Candidates in the EOI bank will be classed in two groups  one for eligible candidates who are either living in Quebec and meet specific criteria or have a job offer in the province, and the other for candidates living outside Quebec.

Candidates in both groups will be ranked based on their scores under a number of factors, such as age, proficiency in French or English, education and Canadian or U.S. work experience. Quebec lists Area of Training as one of the ranking factors for candidates applying from outside the province.

Area of training points are also considered once candidates have been invited to apply for a Quebec Selection Certificate (Certificat de selection du Quebec, or CSQ).

Candidates who reach this stage will have to meet the cut-off score for employability and obtain a minimum passing score of 50 (59 if accompanied by a spouse or common-law partner) under the QSWP points grid in order to be considered for selection.

Area of training factors into both calculations and can therefore be instrumental to receiving a CSQ.

Calculate your Quebec Skilled Worker passing score now!

Changes to Section A

The seven foreign-issued degrees that are now worth 12 points under the QSWP points grid are:

University level

Actuarial Science (Bachelor)

Information Management (Bachelor)

Collegial level technical

Early Childhood Education Techniques (Attestation of Collegial Studies / ACS)

Early Childhood Education Techniques (Diploma of Collegial Studies / DCS)

Restaurant Management (DCS)

Visual Orthosis Techniques (DCS)

Secondary level vocational

Agricultural mechanics (Diploma of Vocational Studies / DVS)

The only foreign degree found in Section A of both the previous list and the updated one is the DCS in Visual Orthosis Techniques.

Of the other foreign degrees previously listed in Section A, Bachelor of Computer Engineering, Bachelor of Computer Science and the DCS in Pharmaceutical Production Technology are now in Section B.

Masters in Genetics, Nuclear Medicine Technology (DCS) and Radiation Oncology Technology (DCS) are now listed under Section C.

Number of foreign degrees recognized under Section B grows

The updated Areas of Training List also increases the number of foreign degrees recognized under Section B, which can result in a maximum of 9 points under the QSWP points grid.

The number of university-level foreign degrees recognized under Section B of the updated list increased from 30 to 46 with the addition of degrees such as Bachelor in Applied Mathematics, a Masters in Architecture and Bachelors in Preschool Teacher Training, among others.

College-level technical training degrees under Section B also increased, from 16 to 27. New degrees in this area include a DCS in Aerospace Engineering Technology, a DCS in Dental Hygiene Techniques and either an ACS or DCS in Special Care Counselling Techniques, among others.

Another significant development under Section B is the number of foreign Secondary Level Vocational degrees that are now being recognized, with the number jumping from four to 28.

The new additions include a DVS in Automated Systems Electromechanics, Boilermaking, Carpentry and Maple Syrup Production, among others.

A number of foreign degrees that appeared under these different Section B categories on the previous Areas of Training list have either been moved to a different section or removed.

To consult the updated Areas of Training List, please visit this dedicated page.

The Quebec Skilled Worker Points Calculator

Obtain your potential Quebec Skilled Worker passing score with CanadaVisas new Quebec Skilled Worker Points Calculator.

To find out if you are eligible for any Canadian immigration programs, fill out a free assessment form.

 2018 CICNews All rights Reserved
Journalists often report on elected officials personal debt. But its rare for that reporting to serve as the basis of an opponents attack ad.

Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul did just that, however, targeting her Democratic primary opponent New York City Councilman Jumaane Williams for being six figures in debt.

Williams still owes $10k in taxes and $625k on a loan from a failed business, the digital ad released on Friday reads. Our NY State budget is $168.3 billion per year. If he can't manage his own finances, do you really want him managing yours?

Williams debts were brought to attention by the New York Post last week. But his financial woes had been reported on for years: by Gothamist in 2011, the Daily News in 2013, the Observer in 2014 and Politico New York in 2015.

Hochuls commercial received a ton of attention on Twitter. Some thought it was a low blow, like defense attorney and former City Council candidate Ali Najmi.

Wow @JumaaneWilliams and @CynthiaNixon must be polling incredibly high for Cuomo team to come out with this. Let me understand this, you are shaming him for being a foreclosed on? Not the smartest way to connect with real New Yorkers. https://t.co/h6GLkv9x1w  Ali Najmi (@Ali_Najmi) August 4, 2018

But others, like NY1 political host Errol Louis, said that personal finances are a legitimate issue for any candidate.

No position; I pointed out that @KathyHochuls attack ad emphasizing @JumaaneWilliamss financial problems, while harsh, raises valid questions. @JumaaneWilliams and his followers are claiming his tax and credit delinquencies are (or should be) a non-issue. They are quite wrong.  Errol Louis (@errollouis) August 5, 2018

Hochul doubled down on her criticism of Williams in an interview with NY1s Zack Fink on Monday, noting that Williams has been making a six-figure salary since took office as a City Councilman in 2010.

.@LtGovHochulNY doubles down on her criticism of @JumaaneWilliams finances. Says median income in parts of his district is $22,000, much lower than the Council Members $148,000 salary. Adds that Williams has taken more than a million in public salary over the last ten years. pic.twitter.com/g1srtWjzyl  Zack Fink (@ZackFinkNews) August 6, 2018

On Monday, Williams responded.

Its an absurd attack. Im not sure why they think its a winning one, he said in an interview with City & State at Manhattan Criminal Court, where Williams was awaiting a verdict in his his trial for protesting the impending deportation of immigration activist Ravi Ragbir.

Williams also wanted to clarify his finances. He said he took out a home equity loan to finance his Brooklyn vegetarian restaurant, Earth Tonez Cafe, which closed in 2008. Hes paid off all the debt for that business, but now his house is in foreclosure.

As for the $10,102 tax bill, the Wednesday Post article was the first Williams had heard of it. I still have to look into it. I have no idea what theyre talking about. From my understanding its sales tax but I dont know. Its news to me, he said.

But Williams had his own criticism for Hochul, calling her out of touch.

To have a millionaire, elitist, corporate Democrat talk about debt in this way really shows a disconnect that so many of us have been pointing out for some time, he said. Hochul made nearly $600,000 in 2017, according to tax returns she shared with the press.

When Rep. Chris Collins was running to unseat then-Congresswoman Hochul in 2012, he criticized her wealth. Then, her net worth was reported as between $1.05 million and $2.27 million.

Queens Assemblyman Ron Kim showed support for Williams on Twitter, suggesting that voters may actually appreciate Williamss struggle with the same financial challenges as many typical families.

Disconnect bw corporate Dems and the people-driven movement: @KathyHochul doesnt understand how millions of Americans are fed up with our debt-driven growth society thats bankrupting our nation & @JumaaneWilliams knows how it feels to be on the losing side of our failing system https://t.co/t3MgKAqTN0  Ron T. Kim (@rontkim) August 4, 2018

Williams wouldnt go as far to say that his debt was a positive in the eyes of New York voters, but believed that his situation was relatable. I do think most New Yorkers understand the experience that Ive had, (and) understand why I try to lift those (people) up as who we should be fighting for, he said. The lieutenant governor has now shown that she has scorn for those experiences.
It began with a recording of a woman parrying the unwanted sexual attentions of an older, powerful man. Can I touch your breasts can I give you a hug? he asks, ignoring her pleas to stop. It was not the first time. She alerted a male supervisor, who advised her to drop her complaint. Instead, she took the recording to a weekly magazine, which published one of the biggest scoops of the year in Japan.

The man on the tape, reported the weekly Shukan Shincho magazine, is the nations top finance bureaucrat. Or, rather, he was. Vice Finance Minister Junichi Fukuda quit his post in May, and maintains his innocence. The woman is a reporter for broadcast network TV Asahi, which explained its initial responsethreatening to reprimand her for going public with the conversation without consent from her sourceby saying it wanted to protect her from further indignity. Her story prompted others to come forward, and the rampant sexual harassment toward female reporters in Japan finally began spilling out.

Yuki Katayama, a veteran journalist and reporter for the regional Hokkaido Shimbun newspaper, recalls being propositioned for sex in the back of a car by a senior police officer. She was visibly pregnant at the time. Kaori Hayashi, a journalist-turned-academic who now teaches at the University of Tokyo, says she left the industry in the 1990s partly because such experiences made it toxic. I was groped, touched, or else discounted because I was a young woman, she says.

The encounters are so routine, lamented Katayama, that female reporters must learn to either laugh them off or quit. If we raise a fuss about sexual harassment our sources will dry up, she wrote in the Hokkaido Shimbun. In May, however, she began to rethink a professional lifetime of silence: I was mentoring a junior reporter who confided in me. She said she felt ill because every time she goes for drinks with an important source, he touches her and uses obscenities. She said, her voice shaking, I cant work as a reporter any more. I thought: I have a responsibility to her.

The Fukuda scandal seems to have opened a great well of anger, frustration, and guilt. It has triggered a wider attempt to change the industry, taking its cue from the global #MeToo storm but known in Japan as #WithYou. Many women feel guilty because they havent fought, and a new generation are coming in and theyre not able to take it, said another female journalist during the aftermath. We report on these things sometimes, but we are unable to confront it in our own industry. We have this mission to become the voice of the voiceless, but these women realize they themselves are the voiceless.

The movement has already had some impact. During a few heady weeks in April and May, claims of harassment shamed top officials, forced the government into a humiliating climbdown, and triggered a rare debate in a country where women have traditionally declined to speak up out of fear of victim shaming.

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JAPANS WORKFORCE is unusually lopsided: Women make up more than half of all employees but they have barely dented senior management. In journalism, the percentage of women reporters has nearly doubled to about 20 percent since 2001 when the Japan Newspaper Publishers and Editors Association began counting. But women occupy just 5.6 percent of managerial posts in newspapers and wire services. (They fare better in broadcasting: 13.7 percent.) Among the handful of powerful women in the industry are Keiko Chino, an editorial board member of The Sankei newspaper, and Kazue Yonamine, chief editor of The Okinawa Times.

Harassment is rife: 30 percent of Japanese women report unwanted sexual attention at work, according to Japans health ministry. Though hardly exceptional by international standards (the figure is higher in the UK, for example), women in the media are particularly at risk. The peculiarities of reporting in Japan involve long hours spent socializing with mostly male sources. Junior reporters are typically dispatched to regional bureaus where they are assigned to press clubs attached to government offices and police stations. Beating rivals to the punch in a system built on access journalism involves cultivating sources, who may not be above using information as bait for sexual favors. A survey this year found that a third of the perpetrators of sexual harassment against female reporters are police officers, politicians, or government officials. Male reporters have been known to joke about the supposed advantages enjoyed by their female colleagues in this grubby game.

Junior reporters are typically dispatched to regional bureaus where they are assigned to press clubs attached to government offices and police stations. Beating rivals to the punch in a system built on access journalism involves cultivating sources, who may not be above using information as bait for sexual favors

The code of silence starts even before women land a position: New recruits are asked during interviews whether they can handle sexual harassment because it is considered part of the job, says Kumiko Nakatsuka, former president of the Asahi Shimbun Workers Union Osaka branch. Women build the all-important quality of gamanenduranceinto their mental job spec. This is how they are made to believe they are wrong and to think of harassment as acceptable, says Nakatsuka.

Victims who speak out may get little sympathy from the public, or even employees. Shiori Ito, a freelance journalist who says she was drugged and raped in a Tokyo hotel by a well-known television reporter in 2015, went public with her claims after the police declined to pursue the case (amid allegations of political pressure). A flood of hate mail branded her a prostitute who had brought the assault on herself. With the exception of the racy tabloid weeklies, the domestic media has made little of her story. She now lives in London.

IN MAY, A GROUP of 86 journalists formed the Women in Media Network Japan (WiMN), partly to generate solidarity for victims like Ito and to expose harassment and abuse, said one of its leaders, Yoshiko Hayashi. (full disclosure: Chie Matsumoto is part of the campaign). While the #MeToo moment flared briefly in Japan, the Japanese hashtag quickly morphed into #WithYouan acknowledgment that victims in Japan might not want to admit it has happened to them, even now. #WithYou expresses solidarity with women like Ito while demanding an end to harassment. Women reporters were taken aback by the way TV Asahi handled the case, says Nakatsuka. (The reporter remains anonymous.)

It didnt help that Finance Minister Taro Aso, Fukudas boss, dismissed the bureaucrats misdeeds, saying the two had talked and he saw no need to take the matter further. He later grumbled about Fukudas human rights, hinted that he had been victim of a honey trap, and said that sexual harassment was not, in any case, illegal in Japan. The way to stop harassment of women reporters, he said, is to replace them with men.

Instead of launching a third-party investigation into the claims, Finance Ministry bureaucrats posted Fukudas denials on its website and called for his victims to come forward for interviewwith its own team of hired lawyers. Japans newspaper unions reacted furiously, calling the tactic intimidation of women and the media.

ICYMI: Who suffers when local news disappears

This involved a corporate journalist, Nakatsuka says, a reference to the bifurcated world of full-time media workers and the vast pool of part-timers and contract workers that prop up the industry. Many full-time female employees began to worry whether their employers would protect them if they faced the same problem, she says. It felt too close to home.

A dossier full of stories compiled by WiMN in May revealed two decades of harassment. All were anonymous, suggesting they feared that breaking the code of silence would harm their careers. In some cases their harassers have risen to positions of considerable authority.

One woman, a print reporter in her forties, wrote that a police chief had threatened to bar her from press conferences after she refused his advances. Another described an attempted rape by a senior colleague, who later pushed to transfer her. Many recalled uncomfortable, sometimes frightening encounters with bureaucrats, cops, and lawmakers. In 20 years as a reporter I encountered countless cases of harassment and have never spoken to anyone, said one.

The accounts were announced at a presser in Kasumigaseki, Japans government district, on May 14. The women demanded accountability for the Fukuda scandal, and called for an end to harassment in the country. NHK, the countrys most powerful broadcaster, was among the outlets that reported their stories.

Embed from Getty Images

The Asahi apologized for its treatment of their reporter. Print and broadcast media industry bodies have called sexual harassment an act of human rights violation and a grave issue that affects peoples right to know, and promised to firmly respond. Some media companies have introduced anti-harassment training. They have passed resolutions promising to monitor whether reporters face intimidation during interviews. (The Japan Newspaper Publishers and Editors Association issued a statement on June 20, while the Japan Commercial Broadcasters Association on June 25.) And a campaign is afoot to create a law banning sexual harassment.

The government appears to have been surprised by the backlash from the Fukuda scandal. Aso has made a grudging apology, though he remains in his job. Bureaucrats from the Finance Ministry have been ordered to take a training course on sexual harassment. A priceless picture was later released, showing a room full of stone-faced, mostly male bureaucrats being lectured on inappropriate conduct toward women by a woman lawyer; the minister himself did not attend.

Female media workers have since met Seiko Noda, the minister in charge of both womens empowerment and gender equalitythe possible prelude to a bill that may finally outlaw sexual harassment. Even Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, hardly a feminist, has publicly urged Noda to end sexual harassment in the workplace.

Still, there is a long way to go. Depriving female reporters of equal access to information and failing to protect them as whistleblowers is a threat to press freedom, says Mami Nakano, a Tokyo lawyer. Rather than trying to protect herself, the TV Asahi reporter was serving the publics right to know. In a withering report last year, the UN Special Rapporteur David Kaye cited a lack of solidarity among journalists in Japan, which left them vulnerable to attacks from employers and the authorities. Banding together helped guarantee media freedom and independence, he said. The importance of the WiMN movement is that it expresses rare cross-industry support for fellow journalists, and for women. This is not just a matter of the media industry, said Noda at the press conference. The aim, say the women of WiMN, is to change society.

ICYMI: Cuts at the Daily News highlight a local news crisis

Correction: This piece has been updated to clarify that the training course on sexual harassment came before WiMNs demands, and that the meeting with Noda may not necessarily lead to a bill.

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David McNeill and Chie Matsumoto are the authors of this article. David McNeill writes for The Irish Times and The Economist and teaches media literacy and journalism at Sophia University in Tokyo. Chie Matsumoto is a freelance journalist and lecturer at Hosei University. She was formerly a full-time reporter at the Asahi newspaper.
Local news lost a dear friend last weekend, as did I. H.F. Gerry Lenfest, a cable television entrepreneur turned philanthropist, passed away at age 88, dedicated to the end to supporting important public service journalism.

Four years ago, after multiple changes of ownership, Lenfest purchased The Philadelphia Inquirer and Daily News and rededicated them to the service of their community. This was not in itself unique. Newspapers in Washington, Boston, Minneapolis, and most recently Los Angeles have each been purchased by wealthy new owners committed to fresh investment. But Philadelphias owner went further. He reorganized the news enterprise itself as a public-benefit corporation charged not with maximizing near-term profits but with sustaining a profitable journalistic enterprise in the public interest. He then donated substantially all of the equity to an endowed non-profit organization now called The Lenfest Institute for Journalism, dedicated to investing in sustainable business models for local news in Philadelphia and nationwide.

RELATED: When local papers close, costs rise for local governments

I met Gerry after nearly two decades ago as a business executive at The Wall Street Journal and then as owner of a news-industry consulting business. My company, then called Empirical Media and staffed largely by fellow Journal diaspora, was advising on the digital transformation of The Philadelphia Inquirer. One morning, in the context of a formal national search, Gerry offered to me the role of executive director and CEO of The Lenfest Institute, adding a kicker, Why dont I buy your company, so you can bring the whole team aboard? I told him he had buried the lede.

I can think of only one disagreement I had with this lovely, self-effacing billionaire. One of the first things I did as CEO was move to change the name from a generic-sounding mouthful, The Institute for Journalism in New Media to The Lenfest Institute. This involved first explaining to an 85-year old why new media was no longer new, and then proposing that we lead with the Lenfest name. There is a Shorenstein, a Tow, an Annenberg, and a Nieman in our world, I suggested, why not a Lenfest? The board vote was 14-1, with only Gerry Lenfest opposing. Look, he told me. Im not Donald Trump, naming everything after myself.

Others in the Philadelphia community joined our cause, including leading venture capitalists and digital media entrepreneurs, attorneys, real estate investors, the local community foundation, the deans of schools of journalism, and former editors and reporters. These stakeholders have collaborated to help fund and oversee investment in new investigative news coverage, new technology for the news operation, improved digital products for readers, and greater diversity in both the newsroom and its audience, each a key building block for sustainable local journalism. It is a leadership model that can and should work in other major American cities.

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The fruits of these investments are evident nearly every day. In just the last few months, the Inquirer has published unparalleled investigative news coverage of the local opioid crisis, lead poisoning, a devastating nursing home fire, state and city government, and the plight of Philadelphia-area immigrants, some in partnership with ProPublica. These stories, expressed powerfully in both print and digital form, have had tremendous impact on our community and its democracy.

Never have legacy newspapers been more challenged economically, but never have donors and subscribers shown more willingness to invest. In addition to its philanthropic supporters, the Inquirer and its online home, Philly.com, now enjoy the support tens of thousands of new digital subscribers paying to access great journalism anywhere at any time.

There is still much more work to do. No change in ownership or legal structure has solved the near-term business challenges facing great local journalism, even here in the birthplace of the First Amendment. But thanks to Gerry Lenfest, we have a fighting chance.

ICYMI: Who suffers when local news disappears

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Jim Friedlich is the Executive Director and chief executive of The Lenfest Institute for Journalism, a non-profit organization that supports local news nationally and is the parent company of The Philadelphia Inquirer.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln scientists want to install 10 seismometers to study what geologists call an earthquake swarm in central Nebraska.

Three university professors, Cara Burberry, Irina Filina and Mindi Searles, are preparing a grant application to the National Science Foundation to pay for the installation and operation of the seismometers. They want to place the devices near Arnold, where about 20 mild earthquakes have been recorded since April, the Lincoln Journal Star reported .

A 3.5-magnitude earthquake was most recently recorded on July 26.

What is striking about this is theyre all in a relatively short period of time, said Filina, a geophysics professor at the university. And thats suspicious.

The scientists want to study the source of the earthquakes, why theyre growing in volume and intensity and whether theyre natural or caused by humans. Its known that the earthquakes are coming from the movement of a historically quiet basement fault, which is a crack in crystalline rock beneath the Sandhills.

Faults can sit there and look pretty for hundreds of years, said Burberry, an associate professor of geology. But then something changes the stress on it, something changes the forces on it, and they move and shake, and were trying to get to what that reason might be.

The seismometers could help the scientists identify the fault and determine its depth.

Nebraska, which has been considered tectonically quiet, lacks sufficient data because there are only a few seismometers monitoring movement below the surface, Filina said. The existing seismometers arent close enough to Arnold to provide insight on the earthquake hotspot.

We want to understand them, she said. To do that, we have to have a good record of them.

The professors estimated $200,000 project could launch next year, if approved. The project would record data for two years.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
In the months before unleashing a hail of bullets into a Las Vegas concert crowd, Stephen Paddock burned through more than $1.5 million, became obsessed with guns and increasingly unstable, and distanced himself from his girlfriend and family, according to an investigative report released Friday.

With those revelations, police announced they were closing their 10-month investigation without a definitive answer for why Paddock, a high-stakes gambler, amassed an arsenal of weapons and carried out the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history.

By all accounts, Stephen Paddock was an unremarkable man whose movements leading up to Oct. 1 didnt raise any suspicion, Clark County Sheriff Joe Lombardo said. An interview with his doctor indicated signs of a troubled mind, but no troubling behavior that would trigger a call to law enforcement.

Paddock left no manifesto or even a note to answer questions about his motive for a rampage that killed 58 people and injured more than 800 others, Lombardo said.

One of his brothers told investigators that he believed the gunman had a mental illness and was paranoid and delusional. A doctor believed he may have had bipolar disorder, the report said.

Paddocks girlfriend said he had suddenly stopped being affectionate and constantly complained of being ill. Marilou Danley told investigators that he said doctors could not cure him but told him he had a chemical imbalance.

In its final report released Friday, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department found Paddock acted alone and no one else will be charged, said Lombardo, the elected head of the agency.

Earlier this year, U.S. prosecutors charged an Arizona man accused of selling illegal armor-piercing bullets found in Paddocks room at the Mandalay Bay hotel-casino on the Las Vegas Strip. Douglas Haig has pleaded not guilty and maintains he sold tracer ammunition, which illuminate a bullets path.

The report included a summary of 14 of Paddocks bank accounts, which contained a total of $2.1 million in September 2015. Two years later, the amount had dropped to $530,000. He wasnt as successful in the gambling as he was in the previous years, Lombardo said.

Investigators said Paddock paid more than $600,000 to casinos and over $170,000 to credit card companies. The analysis said he also made nearly $95,000 in firearms-related purchases.

The report gave no other information about the casino purchases. High-rollers like Paddock are often given credit lines at casinos.

Paddock bought more than three dozen guns between 2016 and 2017. Danley told investigators that she noticed he was buying large amounts of ammunition, but he dismissed her concerns by saying it was cheaper to buy in bulk, according to the report.

She told police that she accompanied Paddock to gun stores and gun shows and helped him set up a gun range in Nevada. Danley told authorities he tended to be obsessive when he dove into a new hobby, and she considered the behavior part of that same pattern, said Detective Trever Alsup, the lead investigator in the case.

Paddocks mother, Irene Hudson, told investigators she did not understand why her son would carry out an attack and believed he must have developed some type of brain tumor, the report said.

An autopsy did not find anything unusual with Paddocks physical condition, even after a microscopic brain examination by experts at Stanford University.

A brother, Eric Paddock, described his sibling as a narcissist who only cared about people he could benefit from.

The final details of the investigation came after police released 13 batches of investigative documents, 911 calls, police reports, witness statements and video over the last three months. They have illustrated chaos, heartbreak and heroism from first responders, concertgoers and family members.

Police body camera recordings earlier made public showed officers using explosives to blast through the door of a 32nd-floor hotel suite to find Paddock dead on the floor from a self-inflicted gunshot. Assault-style weapons fitted with rapid-fire bump stock devices were strewn about the room.

Officers found several laptops, including at least one that was missing a hard drive, the report said.

Eric Paddock told investigators that he believed his brother had cheated on the familys tax preparation. Eric was worried he might be implicated for tax evasion if evidence was collected from his brothers hard drives, the report said.

When police told Eric Paddock about the missing hard drive, he repeated several times: Maybe he did care for us.

Fridays report further detailed Paddocks meticulously planning, including researching SWAT tactics, renting other hotel rooms overlooking outdoor concerts and investigating potential targets in at least four cities.

The FBI is expected to release its final investigative report, including a psychological profile of the gunman, later this year, Lombardo said, noting that authorities want to leave no stone unturned.

The police department is conducting internal reviews into individual officers actions, including one veteran officer who froze in a hallway a floor below where Paddock was firing onto the crowd of 22,000 country music fans.

Another officer accidentally fired a rifle during a blast to breach a locked door in Paddocks room. Police said no one was injured and the shot did not hit Paddock.

Officials have said the attack had no link to terrorism, but hotel owner MGM Resorts International last month invoked a federal law enacted after the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

The company sued hundreds of survivors or families of slain victims, asking federal courts to qualify the shooting as an act of terrorism and declare the company has no liability.

(Balsamo reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Regina Garcia Cano in Las Vegas contributed to this report.)

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
The European Union is encouraging enterprises to increase their business with Iran, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said during her trip to Wellington, New Zealand.

"We are doing our best to keep Iran in the deal, to keep Iran benefiting from the economic benefits that the agreement brings to the people of Iran because we believe this is in the security interests of not only our region, but also of the world. If there is one piece of international agreements on nuclear non-proliferation that is delivering, it has to be maintained," Mogherini said.

Mogherini said the EU and New Zealand saw the need to maintain the nuclear deal with Iran.

"We are encouraging small and medium enterprises in particular to increase business with and in Iran as part of something (that) for us is a security priority," EU foreign policy chief said, explaining that trade is an integral part of the nuclear deal.

Trade between Iran and the EU "is a fundamental aspect of the Iranian right to have an economic advantage in exchange for what they have done so far, which is being compliant with all their nuclear-related commitments," the New York Times cited Mogherini as saying.
Twin wildfires fueled by dry vegetation and hot, windy weather have continued to grow in Northern California. California fire officials said Monday that the two fires about 100 miles (161 kilometers) north of San Francisco were 30 percent contained and have scorched 428 square miles (1,108 square kilometers).

The two fires are burning about 14 miles (22 kilometers) apart and have destroyed 75 homes. Another 9,000 buildings are threatened. The fires cover an area larger than a deadly wildfire burning near Redding, California.

That blaze has killed two firefighters and five civilians and destroyed more than 1,000 homes.

The wildfire started two weeks ago by sparks from the steel wheel of a towed-trailers flat tire. It is 45 percent contained.

Gov. Jerry Brown on Saturday called on President Donald Trump to help California fight and recover from another devastating wildfire season.

Brown, who inspected neighborhoods wiped out by a wildfire in the Northern California city of Redding, said he was confident the president he has clashed with over immigration and pollution policies would send aid, which Trump did last year when Californias wine country was hit hard.

The president has been pretty good on helping us in disasters, so Im hopeful, said Brown, a Democrat. Tragedies bring people together.

Browns call for help came shortly before authorities called on residents in Glenn and Colusa counties in Northern California to evacuate as a wildfire there continues to grow.

Cal Fire issued the evacuation order Saturday night for people who live in several parts of the counties, including an area just east of the boundary of Mendocino National Forest. The blaze, known as the Mendocino Complex fire, has grown to 357 square miles and is 32 percent contained, according to Cal Fire.

The National Weather Service forecasts hot and windy conditions to persist in Northern California.

There are 17 major fires burning throughout California, authorities said. In all, they have destroyed hundreds of homes, killed eight people  including four firefighters- and shut down Yosemite National Park.

Hundreds of colleagues, family and friends attended a memorial service Saturday in Fresno for National Forest Service Capt. Brian Hughes, the Fresno Bee reported. Hughes was killed July 29 by a falling tree while fighting the wildfire that has closed Yosemite National Park at the height of tourist season.

The fire had reached into remote areas of the countrys third-oldest national park. Workers who live in Yosemites popular Valley region were ordered to leave Friday because of inaccessible roads.

It burned so furiously on July 26 that it created what is called a fire whirl. The twirling tower of flame reached speeds of 143 mph (230 kph), which rivaled some of the most destructive Midwest tornados, National Weather Service meteorologist Duane Dykema said. The whirl uprooted trees and tore roofs from homes, Dykema said.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said the blaze had blackened nearly 206 square miles (533 square kilometers).

Fire season is really just beginning, Cal Fire chief Ken Pimlott said.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A Cleveland man was indicted Monday on more than a dozen charges related to animal cruelty and dog fighting, court records show.

Robert E. Cook, 34, was charged with on 13 charges of dog fighting, as well as possessing criminal tools, cruelty against a companion animal and drug possession, according to court records.

On about May 15, Cook "did knowingly use, train or possess a dog for seizing, detaining or maltreating a domestic animal," prosecutors say. He is also charged with having "knowingly caused serious physical harm to a companion animal."

Prosecutor Michael O'Malley says Cook had testosterone, testosterone enanthate and stanozolol in his possession when he was arrested.

Police did not provide any further information.

Cook's arraignment is set for Monday, August 20.

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EUCLID, Ohio -- Authorities recovered a body from Lake Erie on Monday afternoon in Euclid, police said.

Investigators have not identified the body recovered from the water near Arcadia Beach, Euclid police Lt. Mitch Houser said. The body was pulled from the water sometime in the last hour, Houser said about 2:45 p.m.

It appears the body was in the water for "some time," Houser said. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office will determine the person's identity, he said.

Investigators could not immediately determine whether any foul play was involved in the person's death, due to the state of the body, Houser said.

Houser could not immediately provide any additional information about how the body was found. Euclid police and firefighters pulled the body from the water.

A U.S. Coast Guard spokesman said the agency is not involved in the investigation.

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CLEVELAND, Ohio - Cuyahoga County corruption investigators want to know who had access to county offices and the county computer network at specific times on specific days in November of 2016.

The request for information is contained in a subpoena served this week on the administration of County Executive Armond Budish. It also seeks security camera video and records that show who accessed a county database about contracts related to Hyland Software and OneCommunity.

The subpoena (read it below) is the 14th served on the county by the county prosecutor's office this year. Investigators are largely focusing on activity in the IT Department. IT Director Scot Rourke and IT General Counsel and Director of Special Initiatives Emily McNeeley have been cited in multiple subpoenas. Both are on leave pending the investigation.

More specifically, the new subpoena seeks records of anyone who gained electronic access to the county's IT Department and Office of Budget and Management, both located in the County Administration Building, between 6 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Nov. 21 and Nov. 29 of 2016.

Also requested is security camera footage in both areas from 9:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. on Nov. 21, 2016, and from 8:45 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. on Nov. 29, 2016.

The subpoena also seeks records of who logged into the county's procurement database at specific times on those mornings to access the Hyland contract and the OneCommunity contract.

The contract numbers cited in the subpoena correspond with two no-bid contracts approved on Dec. 5, 2016, by the Board of Control. One is for $371,570 for Hyland Software to provide maintenance and professional services from Jan. 1, 2017, to April 30, 2018.

The other is a $370,975 contract with OneCommunity for transition services through May 1, 2015 that had already been rendered. That contract, which McNeeley reviewed and presented to the Board of Control, is cited in a draft audit of IT contracts that questions whether the county overpaid OneCommunity for services.

The draft audit, a copy of which was leaked last week to cleveland.com, was prepared by the county's Department of Internal Audit. It raises a variety of concerns, including questions about McNeeley's authority and oversight. Also among the audit's findings was that the user ID of a terminated employee from the Office of Budget and Management was used 25 times to perform required OBM approvals of more than $27 million in contracts.

Previous subpoenas served on the county have asked for information related to contracts and communications with Hyland, which employs McNeeley's spouse, and OneCommunity, which Rourke used to run.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A Cleveland man is accused of participating in the shooting that killed a man and injured six others outside a bar where hip-hop artist Q Money recorded a scene for a music video.

Kelend Jones, 24, is charged with aggravated murder in the fatal shooting of Cortez Ruffin. He is not in police custody and a warrant was issued Tuesday for his arrest.

Ruffin was one of seven people shot July 26 outside the DPG Dog Pound Bar on St. Clair Avenue and East 186th Street.

Q Money, whose real name is Qamar Williams, said in an interview with cleveland.com that he pushed to film the first music video in Cleveland, the first since he signed a record deal with Warner Bros.

He filmed at several locations that day, starting out at Mark Tromba Park and London Liquor Store on St. Clair and East 162nd Street. They finished filming at the bar, and the 22-year-old Williams said he and his film crew left shortly before the gunfire erupted.

Dozens of people followed him to each site, including the bar. Williams left, but about 100 of the followers remained at the bar.

The incident began about 1:30 a.m. in the bar's parking lot. Two women got into a fight and Ruffin ran over to separate the two, according to police reports and surveillance of the incident viewed by cleveland.com.

Another fight broke out between Ruffin and several other men. That fight escalated as more people joined the fight.

A man then pulled out a gun and fired into the crowd, hitting Ruffin.

Several people tried to help Ruffin, who was knocked to the pavement by the first gunshot, police reports said. A different gunman walked up, stood over him and fired several bullets into his chest, police reports say.

At least one other person in the crowd fired shots. Six others between the ages of 19 and 26, were injured in the shooting. Ruffin and another man were taken to area hospitals.

The others who were shot ran to cars and were dropped off at area hospitals. A 23-year-old man suffered several gunshot wounds to his side and arm. Others were shot in the foot, bicep, stomach, arm, according to police reports.

Investigators scoured the area and found two guns hidden behind a garage on East 186th Street, police reports say.

Jones was convicted of aggravated assault in a 2014 shootout and is currently facing charges that accuse him of speeding from state troopers in August 2017.

In the 2014 case, Jones and another man shot each other after an argument in the 12700 block of Locke Avenue. Jones was sentenced to two years probation for the shooting and for a separate conviction for dealing synthetic marijuana, also known as spice.

He was sentenced in March to one year of probation for having a loaded handgun in his car. Jones skipped a June 26 hearing to determine if he violated his probation after he was charged in the August 2017 police chase.

Jones pleaded not guilty to failing to comply with a police order and obstructing official business.

In that case, Ohio State troopers stopped Jones' car on St. Clair Avenue near Casper Avenue for switching lanes several times without signaling, according to court records.

Jones didn't have any identification and the trooper opened Jones' door and asked him to step out, court records say. Jones refused and reached toward the center console. The trooper wrote in court records he feared Jones was reaching for a weapon so he fired his stun gun at Jones as Jones sped away.

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ROOTSTOWN, Ohio -- Northeast Ohio Medical University will begin offering a graduate pharmacy administration degree online through Kent State University.

The new Health-System Pharmacy Administration Master of Science degree, announced Monday, will be NEOMED's first online program. The coursework teaches pharmacists the skills to run the pharmacy departments for hospitals and health systems.

There are currently nine students enrolled in the program. The tuition for the current and online versions is the same at $21,867.

Scott Knoer, chief pharmacy officer at the Cleveland Clinic said in a press release that having an online program will allow for pharmacists across the country to train with NEOMED.

Kent State will provide technology and support services to host the new online program. NEOMED will be responsible for courses, content, students, faculty and admissions.

Details on when and how students can sign up will be released in the coming months.

Kent State and NEOMED also signed an agreement in January that allows pharmacy students to complete their undergraduate degree and their doctorate in seven years instead of eight.

Undergraduates at Kent State can also apply to an early assurance program their sophomore year which puts them on track for a secured seat at NEOMED if they meet the right criteria. The program is designed for students interested in primary care, especially if they plan to practice in "critical need" areas, according to the university's website.

NEOMED and Kent State are both part of the recently-signed Northeast Ohio Regional Higher Education Compact, a group formed out of a state requirement for universities to work regionally on cutting costs and eliminating redundancies between schools.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio -- Investigators in Mahoning County believe a suspect has been operating a human trafficking ring for about 15 years involving at least 80 women.

Ronald Hellman, 50, is being held in jail on a $100,000 bond after being charged Monday with four counts of compelling prostitution involving a minor, WFMJ Channel 21 reports.

Mahoning County Sheriff Office Major Jeff Allen says investigators believe both women and juveniles were among the victims.

According to WKBN Channel 27, Hellman is accused of bringing women and girls to the home of Charles Krusak, 77, and that Hellman received payments from Krusak.

Reports say Krusak's home in Austintown was raided last month. He was arrested on charges of prostitution and child porn.

The victims were held either because of drug addition or by force, authorities tell WFMJ.

"They've gotten into this life because people have made them dependent on drugs," lawyer Jennifer McLaughlin tells WKBN. "They're physically abused ... and they're afraid ... and so they will do what these men tell them to do."

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CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A recent spike in fatal drug overdoses has Cuyahoga County officials concerned there could be as many drug-related deaths in 2018 as last year's record-setting total.

Fourteen people died of drug overdoses during a recent five-day period from Aug. 2 to Aug. 6, the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office said in a statement. The uptick has Cuyahoga County on pace to match last year's total of 727 fatal drug overdoses.

"This is a concerning trend. The county is working with our local and federal partners to analyze it and identify its source," Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner Dr. Thomas Gilson said in a statement.

The deaths included 10 men and four women. Half of the victims were over the age of 60, which is notable because most drug overdose deaths involve persons between the ages of 45 and 55, according to statistics from the medical examiner's office.

Nine of the victims were white, four were black and one was Hispanic, statistics show.

Nine deaths happened in Cleveland, and three happened in Euclid. Lakewood and Garfield Heights each reported one death, statistics show. The location of the deaths indicate the drugs are not linked to a centralized location, the medical examiner's office said.

The medical examiner's office did not release any information about the types of drugs involved in each of the deaths.

The grim outlook comes just months after statistics suggested overdose deaths might have leveled off in Cuyahoga County after eight straights years of dramatic increases. Earlier this year, statistics suggested overdose deaths could slightly decline in 2018.

Cuyahoga County reported 137 drug overdose deaths in the first four months of 2018, compared to 192 during the same period in 2017. But the medical examiner's most recent monthly report, from June 2018, showed the county could see 714 drug overdose deaths this year.

Overdose deaths related to fentanyl are on pace to significantly decrease this year, from 492 in 2017 to 367 in 2018. But cocaine-related deaths are expected to rise from 290 last year to 329 this year, statistics show.

Officials also said earlier this year that methamphetamine's prevalence increased in 2017.

Earlier this year, officials had attributed a slight decrease in deaths to the availability of naloxone, a life-saving opioid overdose reversal drug; Ohio doctors decreasing the number of opioids they are prescribing; and a law enforcement focus on arresting and prosecuting drug dealers, among other factors.

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CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Two men are accused of being part of a shootout that left one man dead and two others injured by gunfire.

Brian Pruitt Jr., 24, is charged with aggravated murder and Stacey Norris Jr., also 24, is charged with murder in the Aug. 7, 2016 shootout that killed Dexter Williams.

Neither are in police custody and warrants were issued Tuesday for their arrests.

Pruitt's younger brother was involved in a fight earlier in the day that led to the shootout, according to court records. Someone drove by the intersection of East 77th Street at Korman Avenue and opened fire, police reports say.

A 53-year-old woman and a 48-year-old woman each reported someone shot at their houses.

Investigators found two bullets holes in one home; a single bullet ripped through the other home, according to police reports.

Ten minutes later, a group of eight people arrived at the intersection and started arguing. One man threatened to shoot up a home, police said.

Pruitt and Norris were among those in the group that fired several shots during the shootout, according to court records. Williams, 22, was shot in the chest and died.

A man who was initially charged with murder in the case was shot in the foot and grazed in the head by a bullet, police said. A 24-year-old man was shot in the wrist.

Investigators collected bullet casings from seven guns and tested them, according to court records.

A gun found at the scene had the 23-year-old man's DNA on it, according to court records. Cuyahoga County prosecutors dismissed the case against him, but eventually charged him in connection with another fatal shooting.

In that case, a jury found him not guilty of murder, but found him guilty of firing gunshots during a different shootout in 2017. A judge found him not guilty of possessing a weapon and ordered a new trial in that case.

Norris skipped his June 18 arraignment after being charged with illegal handling of a firearm in a car stemming from an April 21 arrest.

Pruitt was arrested Aug. 24, 2017 in connection with a heroin and fentanyl distribution ring in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, but prosecutors eventually dropped the charges against him.

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Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev has appointed Nurlan Yermekbaev as the country's Defense Minister, according to the official Akorda page in Facebook.

Yermekbaev will replace Saken Jasuzakov, who held this office since September 2016.

In April 2018, he was dismissed from the position of the Minister for Religious Affairs and Civil Society and was appointed Presidents Aide and Secretary of the Security Council.

Yermekbaev was born on January 1, 1963 in Shymkent.
By MARK SATOLA

CUYAHOGA FALLS, Ohio -- For a summer festival concert, Sunday night's outing by the Cleveland Orchestra was unusually substantial.

The all-Czech program explored lesser-known but first-rate repertoire by Smetana, Janacek, and Dvorak, with nary a greatest hit in sight.

Guest conductor Michael Francis, music director of the Tampa Bay-based Florida Orchestra since 2015, delivered electrifying performances of Smetana's "Sarka," Janacek's "Taras Bulba," and the dramatic Symphony No. 7 in D minor by Dvorak, to a medium-sized audience. Those who didn't attend missed one of the most satisfying evenings of this year's Blossom Festival.

"Sarka" is probably the least-heard tone poem of the six that make up Smetana's famous cycle "Ma Vlast" ("My Fatherland"). Likewise, it is the most directly programmatic. Where "The Moldau" traces the course of the Vltava River to the sea, and "From Bohemia's Woods and Fields" celebrates Czech countryside, "Sarka" tells a meaty story about the female warrior Sarka, unlucky in love, and her quest for revenge against all men.

Smetana pitches the drama high from the opening bars, and Francis seized the moment with intensity, whipping up an orchestral frenzy that was a perfect counterpart to the maiden warriors' bloodbath at the climax. There was no lack of control, however, and the blend of orchestral sound was perfectly balanced. Assistant principal clarinetist Dan McKelway made a nice contribution midway through.

Janacek had found his mature voice by the time he wrote his three-paneled symphonic rhapsody "Taras Bulba," inspired by Gogol's novella, which tells the story of the Cossack warrior who led a campaign against Poland, at the expense of his own life and those of his sons, Andrij and Ostap.

"Taras Bulba" is a fine example of Janacek's almost pointillistic writing for the orchestra. Francis knitted the melodic cells together beautifully, realizing the composer's brilliant sonic tapestry. The orchestra responded with its usual astounding artistry. First associate concertmaster Peter Otto received extra acclaim for his nice rendering of the work's important violin solos.

As a conductor, Francis is a deeply involved leader, with an unflagging attention to form, drama, balance, and the tiniest details. His baton technique is expansive and complex and communicates clearly and eloquently with his players, but is also refreshingly free of showiness.

Those characteristics served everyone well when it came to the central work on the program: Dvorak's Seventh. A work of unusual seriousness and breathtaking compositional mastery, the symphony finds Dvorak navigating some of the most complex counterpoint of his career.

Francis was more than up to the challenge, driving home the energetic passagework of the first movement with confidence, shaping the heartfelt Adagio with sensitivity, and bringing a danceable lilt to the easygoing Scherzo.

The finale was a marvel of energy and momentum in Francis's hands, with a high-octane accelerando in the coda that only upped the level of excitement that the artists were already generating.

As always with Dvorak's colorful orchestration, there are many opportunities for soloists to shine, and assistant principal oboist Jeffrey Rathbun, English hornist Robert Walters, and clarinetist Dan McKelway took their well-earned bows at the conclusion.
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COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Gov. John Kasich wants to fill the state's rainy day fund and put a little more cash in Ohioans' pockets before he leaves office in early January.

Kasich, eyeing a projected $368 million budget surplus, wants to reduce income tax withholding rates at the end of this year to match a previous tax rate cut. So instead of seeing any extra money withheld in a tax refund next spring, workers would get slightly larger paychecks.

Kasich proposed the withholding change in 2016, but lawmakers passed on the plan. Making the change would cost $147 million, state Budget Director Tim Keen said. Some taxpayers would see a smaller refund come tax time, and others could owe taxes when they file returns.

Kasich also wants to top off the state's budget stabilization fund, known as the rainy day fund. A July deposit in the fund brought it to $2.67 billion -- about $68 million short of the maximum allowed by law.

"I think we're in a position to responsibly save a little more money to protect our kids and the poor and provide a little tax relief to the citizens of the state," Kasich said.

Kasich said he wants to wait a few months, to watch the economy, before taking the plan to the legislature. But later, Keen wouldn't answer reporters' questions about whether lawmakers would need to sign off on the plan.

Kasich's comments came at a Statehouse press conference where he was inducted as an honorary member of the International Union of Operating Engineers.

Kasich reiterated calls for his successor, either Democrat Richard Cordray or Republican Mike DeWine, to protect the state's nest egg and only tap it when "the rain does fall." Democrats and local governments have suggested the fund be used to bolster local efforts against Ohio's opioid abuse and overdose crisis.

Kasich said the fund should be used to protect children and poor people, who are most at risk for funding cuts when state budgets take a hit.

"The idea that this is sort of free money, that this is Christmas Day, is basically irresponsible and just political rhetoric jargon in an effort to buy votes," Kasich said.

The two-year budget Kasich signed in June reflected a projected $1 billion budget hole generated after several months where revenue lagged behind estimates. Budget officials adopted much lower estimates going forward.

Keen said the state is on track to end the fiscal year in 2019 with a $368 million surplus.

When asked why not use that to bolster areas that have been cut in past budgets, Keen said surpluses are one-time monies and shouldn't pay for ongoing expenses.

"These proposals will responsibly dispose of a projected surplus that will not have outyear negative impacts," Keen said.
CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Richard Cordray's campaign for Ohio governor says it will continue to use footage shot by the state government's TV channel in a campaign ad, despite the service's policy barring its footage from being used for political purposes.

The Cordray's campaign said its use of a 2010 news conference Cordray gave as state attorney general is fair use, a legal concept that allows copyrighted material to be used without permission under certain conditions, such as commentary or news reporting. But an official with the Ohio Channel, which recorded the news conference, said that's against the quasi-governmental agency's internal policy. The official, Executive Director Dan Shellenbarger, also cited a state law that forbids its services from being used for political purposes.

"Usually, they have the idea, and it's a mistaken idea, that it's public and that it's fair use, so it requires a little bit of education ... on what is appropriate use and what is inappropriate," Shellenbarger told cleveland.com.

The three-second clip, depicting Cordray announcing a multi-million-dollar drug bust, appeared in a Cordray campaign ad that launched Saturday as part of a six-figure ad campaign airing on TV stations across Ohio. Cordray is a Democrat running against current state Attorney General Mike DeWine, a Republican.

Shellenbarger said Monday that it's common for political campaigns to attempt to use the channel's archival footage, which includes untold hours of video of legislative sessions, press conferences and other events. But, he said they usually pull the ad once they're told they don't have permission to use it.

"We've had a very good record of having them comply. Usually, it's just a misunderstanding," he said.

Shellenbarger, speaking generally about his station's policies, pointed to a 2001 state law that created the Ohio Channel, which says "Services provided by the Ohio government telecommunications service shall not be used for political purposes included in campaign materials, or otherwise used to influence an election, legislation, issue, judicial decision, or other policy of state government."

But the Cordray campaign argues the law as written does not seem to explicitly apply to reusing archival footage that's available on the Internet. It also pointed out that although the law says that the Ohio Channel footage can't be used to influence a judicial decision, DeWine's office has cited it in legal filings while defending contested state laws. The campaign has no plans to pull the ad, officials said.

"Republicans don't have any solutions for Ohioans facing increasing health insurance costs, prescription drug costs and stagnant wages -- so they've resorted to complaining about footage in TV ads," campaign spokeswoman Christina Freundlich said.

Niraj Antani, a Republican state representative from the Dayton area who supports DeWine, said in an interview that he's wanted to use Ohio Channel footage of his speeches from the state legislative floor in his past campaigns, but has been denied permission. Antani recognized the footage as from the Ohio Channel when he watched the ad online on Friday. He has shared his concerns with the Ohio Channel, he said.

"I'd like to use it for my campaign material, but as a lawmaker, you have to respect the law, and I respect their right to copyright," Antani said.

Shellenbarger said Monday that he had reached out to the Cordray's campaign, and expected to have a conversation with them about the footage. He did not respond to a follow-up message on Tuesday.
GENOA TOWNSHIP, Ohio--In a red-leaning part of the 12th Congressional District, voter traffic during Tuesday's special election was surprisingly brisk at a local polling place - though that might not necessarily benefit Republican nominee Troy Balderson.

At Genoa Baptist Church, 1,730 of 9,084 registered voters had cast ballots by noon, according to the Guardian's Ben Jacobs. That's a turnout of 19 percent - which, while low by general-election standards, is not bad for an August special election.

Democrat Danny O'Connor isn't expected to win Delaware County, which includes Genoa Township. But to win, he needs to stay competitive with Balderson here and in other GOP-friendly areas of the district while running up the score in Democratic Franklin County.

Even though President Donald Trump won suburban/rural Genoa Township with 57 percent of the vote in 2016 - and came to Delaware County last weekend to campaign for Balderson - a number of voters told cleveland.com they supported O'Connor particularly as a protest vote against the president.

"I think we're ready for a change," said Jennifer Reynolds, a self-described independent who voted for O'Connor, the Franklin County recorder, despite voting Republican (though not for Trump) in the past. When asked why she voted for the Democrat, Reynolds replied, "I guess it was a vote against the Republican Party."

However, Balderson, a state senator from Zanesville, had his share of supporters as well.

"I just think he'll do a better job," said Don Young, who said he's been a Republican since Bill Clinton was president. "I like his ideas - and, you know, I really don't trust a lot of politicians from Franklin County."

Balderson himself briefly showed up outside the polling place to greet supporters, though he was unusually reserved, thanking voters from a few yards away as they walked back to their cars - except for one supporter who approached him to chat.
AUSTINTOWN, Ohio - Michael Avenatti, the lawyer representing adult film actress Stormy Daniels in her case against Republican President Donald Trump, draws a crowd.

That was evident by his appearance at the Mahoning County Democratic Party's annual dinner Monday night, where around 100 party loyals flocked to The Upstairs just to catch a glimpse of who might be the president's main antagonist.

At face value, the Youngstown area seems like the type of place that would feel blase about a well-dressed, high-priced Los Angeles attorney. And the Democratic mantra of the 2018 elections has been "stick to the issues." Don't focus on the president's numerous scandals: possible collusion with Russia by the president's campaign, the ongoing investigation by Special Counsel Robert Mueller, Trump's erratic tweets.

Stormy Daniels' alleged affair with the president - and Avenatti's position as her lawyer - fall squarely in the latter category.

The Buckeye State was unwittingly sucked into the scandal after police officers arrested Daniels during a performance at a strip club in Columbus. The charges against Daniels were ultimately dropped, and Avenatti has said the whole incident was politically motivated.

To many Democrats, Avenatti is a media-hungry sideshow. He's cotton candy when the party needs to be eating its meat and vegetables.

But his speech to the Mahoning County Democrats showed he can be much more than a distraction.

"I mean I've been fighting for Davids versus Goliaths my entire legal career for the better part of 18 years," Avenatti said in an interview before his speech. "The Democratic Party for a long time, they've yearned to have a fighter. A fighter for the left. Someone to actually stand up for working people and espouse ideals of the Democratic Party."

A group of protesters showed up to Michael Avenatti's appearance at a Mahoning County Democratic Party dinner. Avenatti eventually spoke with the handful of protesters, who said they appreciated him coming over.

Avenatti has been a mainstay on cable and network news as a vocal critic of Trump. Where most talking heads and politicians keep the criticism to carefully orchestrated talking points, Avenatti has gone shot for shot with the president.

In that time he's transformed from a simple cable news guest to a key figure in the Democratic "resistance" against the administration, a man unafraid to punch low when the president does.

"People want frank talk," Avenatti said. "What you see with me is what you get. I don't have to conduct a poll to figure out what I'm going to tell somebody. I don't have to hire some consultant to come up with some cute catch phrase. I just call it like I see it."

Mahoning County Democratic Party Chairman David Betras said that is the style voters in the Mahoning Valley will respond to.

"We found a fighter," Betras said. "No one was fighting with Donald Trump. You know and I know that Donald Trump wants to hire a guy like Michael Avenatti, and he'd beg to have a guy like Michael Avenatti instead of Rudy Giuliani."

Democrats - and even Republicans - have often been bewildered by how best to counter Trump's hard-nosed, impromptu style. What is the rulebook for attacking someone who doesn't play by the rules?

If Avenatti has any say, the answer is to go just as hard. In his speech, he said he respects former first lady Michelle Obama's creed of, "When they go low, we go high."

That works in a normal political environment, but Trump's election ushered in anything but normalcy, he said.

"I believe that we cannot be the party any longer that turns the other cheek," he said. "We must be the party that marshals the power of law and government and passion to bring those who hit that cheek to justice. When they go low, I say we hit harder."

Avenatti is unapologetically confrontational. While he's now a high-profile attorney, he grew up in St. Louis, a blue-collar town that has fallen on tough times in recent decades, similar to the Mahoning Valley.

He speaks with the cadence and polish of a seasoned politician, injecting gravitas into every word and pausing at just the right moment to garner applause from the crowd. He's even teased the idea of running for president.

His blunt approach and the fact that he's become such a celebrity has made him a headache to some Democratic Party insiders.

But he's not completely devoid of the issues either. One of the main focuses in his speech was the Lordstown Chevrolet plant where the Chevy Cruze is manufactured and a major employer in the area. Outsourcing has decimated the factory, which has eliminated two shifts.

Trump has been nowhere to be found to fight for those workers, Avenatti said.

"He's traveling around the country talking about promises kept when in reality I think most hard-working Americans are wondering where those promises went to," he said.

The roughly 100 people in the Mahoning County crowd were receptive to Avenatti's approach. In a way, he was tailor-made to speak after the slew of local Democrats who hurled insults and expletives at their brethren in the room, a kind of roasting usually reserved for behind closed doors.

"That's what they'll respond to in this town," Betras said of Avenatti's brashness. After all, Youngstown is the hometown of U.S. Rep. James Trafficant, a larger than life politician in his own right who embodied the off-the-cuff, populist approach.

The Mahoning Valley is precisely the area Democrats need to rebound in to have any shot of turning the state blue in 2020. Once reliably Democratic - President Barack Obama won Mahoning County by more than 27 percentage points in 2012 - Trump's populist brand propelled him to the best showing by a Republican in years, losing the county by just 3 percentage points.

So what about the roadmap to success - sticking to the issues and not playing the president's game?

Ohio Democratic Party Chairman David Pepper, who attended the dinner and spoke just before Avenatti, said the issues are still what's most important for candidates. The sideshow won't win elections, he said.

However, he did think Avenatti had some sage advice.

"I think we're up against a sort of aggressive party on the other side," Pepper said. "Look at what they did to Merrick Garland. Look at what they did in gerrymandering our state. They don't play. To the extent that his message is you've got to fight fire with fire, don't just roll over and be the nice guy, I agree with that."
GREEN, Ohio - The Akron-Canton Airport's new president and CEO knows the Northeast Ohio air travel market well - he's worked for the past 11 years at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

CAK's board of trustees announced this morning the hiring of new CEO Renato "Ren" Camacho, currently the chief of planning and engineering for Cleveland Hopkins.

He starts his new job Oct. 1, replacing longtime CEO Rick McQueen, who is retiring at the end of this year.

Camacho, 48, comes to Akron-Canton during a tough period for the airport, which has steadily lost air service in recent years. Most notably, Southwest Airlines, once the largest carrier at CAK, pulled out of the airport in June 2017. Air traffic was down 9.3 percent between 2016 to 2017.

Despite the downturn, the airport is in the final stages of a major capital improvement plan, dubbed CAK 2018, which included a runway extension, more parking and terminal improvements. Work is slated to start this month on the final piece of the plan: a $30-million gate-replacement project.

In a statement, Christopher J. Holding, chair of CAK's board of trustees, said of Camacho: "He has a track record of strong leadership, capital improvement execution, and is well respected among his peers in the aviation industry. Mr. Camacho will continue to take our airport to the next level as we invest in customer experience, air service and economic development."

Said Camacho: "I am excited to take on this role with the Akron-Canton Airport to build on the promise of a better way to go. I look forward to working with the local community to ensure the airport grows as an economic engine that will bring both increased economic activity and pride to the Akron-Canton region."

Prior to coming to Cleveland in 2007, Camacho worked for 14 years in the engineering department for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. He has degrees from NYU Polytechnic University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

His new salary is $175,000.
Over the past 31 years, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga has built 276 homes providing more than 1,000 women, men, and children with stability and the joy and security of Habitat homeownership.



Habitat or Humanity is hosting Raise the Roof on Wednesday, Oct. 3, at 11:30 a.m. at the Chattanooga Convention and Trade Center. Associate Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, Founder of Fresh Raise for Life Ministries, and Associate General Counsel of Habitat for Humanity International, Natosha Reid Rice, will deliver the keynote address.

Tickets are $65 and tables (seating eight) are $500. To purchase tickets or tables, visit eventbrite.com or call 756-0507.

Proceeds from Raise the Roof will go directly into funding Habitat for Humanitys mission of building more decent and affordable homes for deserving families in Hamilton County.
Russia's Foreign Ministry commented on the reintroduction of U.S. unilateral sanctions against Iran.

"We are deeply disappointed by U.S. steps to reimpose its national sanctions against Iran," the Russian foreign ministry says in a statement, posted on its website.

The ministry added it will do "everything necessary" to save the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and protect its shared economic interests with Tehran.

"We are taking appropriate measures on a national level to protect [our] trade and economic co-operation with Iran. We also continue to develop on joint solutions together with other participants of the [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action] aimed at the preservation and expansion of international trade and financial co-operation with Iran," the foreign ministry said. "We believe that this work is in line with the interests of the international community."

Moscow accused the U.S. of trying to disrupt the Iran deal after its unilateral exit from it. "That is a glaring example of Washingtons continued practice of violating UNSC resolution 2231 and its trampling on international law," the foreign ministry said.

The ministry urged the international community not to allow a significant achievement like the Iran deal to be "sacrificed to American attempts to settle scores with Iran on issues unrelated to the JCPOA."
A major road accident has taken place yesterday evening in Yerevan, according to Armenian media reports.

At around 10pm local time, a Toyota Altezza crashed into a Nissan Tiida that was legally parked on a road, As a result, the Nissan turned to its side and ended up at the sidewalk.

The rescuers, who arrived at the scene, brought the Toyotas driver out of the vehicle and carried him to a hospital, News.am reported.

Police are determining the identities of the drivers.
In fact, 13 percent of divorcees blame student loans specifically for ending their relationship, the report found. Student Loan Hero surveyed more than 800 divorced adults in June.

More than one-third of borrowers said college loans and other money woes contributed to their divorce, according to a recent report from Student Loan Hero, a website for managing education debt.

In general, finances are the leading cause of stress in a relationship, according to a study by SunTrust Bank, and student debt takes a particularly hard toll on a marriage.

When it comes to student loan debt, "for richer, for poorer" doesn't quite cut it.

Not only can student loan debt, which now stands at an all-time high of $1.5 trillion, be a relationship killer, it's also harder to avoid than ever before.

The average outstanding balance is currently $34,144, up 62 percent over the last decade, according to a report by Experian. In addition, the percentage of borrowers who owe $50,000 or more has tripled over the same time period, according to a separate report by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Committing to someone with that kind of student debt "feels very unfair," said Jacqueline Newman, the managing partner of Berkman Bottger Newman & Rodd in New York.

"Student loans can really hold you back," she said. For couples just starting out, that burden is having an impact on their lifestyle and ability to buy a home or have children, she added.

Newman advises couples to consider a prenuptial agreement specifying that any money put toward that debt during a marriage would be credited back off the top of the marital assets.

(Prenups, which typically safeguard individual assets such as retirement accounts, real estate and investments, can also cover one partner's student loan or credit card debt.)

That way, the person who is helping pay down the other person's debt would be reimbursed in the case of a split.

More from Personal Finance:

These are the reasons why millions of millennials can't buy houses

How student loans are making some people abandon their dreams

Student loan debt is a hurdle for many would-be mothers
Equal Pay Day, the symbolic annual reminder of how far women have to work into the new year to earn the same pay white men earned the previous year, took place this year on April 10th. Now, four months later, Black Women's Equal Pay Day has finally arrived. On average, black women have to work eight additional months to achieve pay equity with white men. (This year, Native American and Latina women won't cross this threshold until September 7th and November 1st, respectively.) Currently, black women are paid 38 percent less than white men and 21 percent less than white women, according to new data released by SurveyMonkey and LeanIn.org in partnership with the National Urban League. Over the course of a typical career, this amounts to nearly $870,000 in lost wages. Systematic issues of discrimination and workplace bias play a huge role in these statistics. But in addition to drawing attention to the need to combat these problems, Black Women's Equal Pay Day provides an opportunity to discuss how black women can be better advocates for themselves at work. CNBC Make It interviewed five black women about their compensation history and the negotiating advice they have for other women looking to earn what they're worth. Here's what they told us:

Tonya Rapley, millennial money expert, founder of My Fab Finance

My Fab Finance founder Tonya Rapley

Tonya Rapley is a nationally-recognized millennial money expert. She founded the award-winning site, My Fab Finance, in 2013. Rapley has been featured on several platforms including Forbes, NY Daily News, Cheddar, Essence.com and Refinery29. What was your first job out of school? My first job out of college was working as a customer service representative for Windstream Communications. It was a means to an end, as I was having a hard time getting hired out of college. I know for sure I wasn't making more than $16 an hour. Were you paid fairly for the work you were doing at that time? If not, how did you find out you were underpaid? Absolutely not, but I learned I was not alone in this, and most of the individuals who started in my position were underpaid so I'm not sure if negotiating would have made a difference. It was one of the most stressful jobs I have ever done, which is why I lasted less than six months before finding a position that was more related to my degree. What negotiating advice do you wish you had known in your 20s? To ask anyway. Just because it appears to be corporate protocol does not mean there isn't wiggle room for more money. What advice do you have for black women today who are thinking about asking for a raise? No matter how qualified you are, don't underestimate the benefit of stating your value and what you bring to the table in your request. You should also understand your skill sets and leverage them when making your ask. And in the event that you don't get the raise, don't automatically take it personally. While it could be personal, immediately defaulting to this response and belief puts you in an emotional state, rather than a strategic one.

April Reign, Senior Director of Marketing at Fractured Atlas

Senior Director of Marketing for Fractured Atlas April Reign

April Reign is a senior director of marketing at non-profit arts organization Fractured Atlas. In addition to her day job, she is a speaker and diversity consultant who built a large online following in 2015 with her viral #OscarsSoWhite hashtag, which challenged Hollywood's lack of representation in film. What was your first job out of school? Right after college I went to law school and I didn't have a job in between. So my first job after law school was working as a young lawyer at a law firm. Were you paid fairly for the work you were doing at that time? If not, how did you find out you were underpaid? I honestly don't know, and I think that is part of the problem. There is this lack of transparency in respect to salary. It was enough, but I don't know if it was actually fair. What negotiating advice do you wish you had known in your 20s? To research my job and its starting salary in my geographic location so that I could know the average pay. What advice do you have for black women today who are thinking about asking for a raise? I think women always, especially black women, undervalue what we do. So you should always determine what you deserve and then add 25 percent. At my current job at Fractured Atlas, they were very transparent about salary and I absolutely love that. So I knew what the starting salary was going into the interview. And so when they gave the offer I said, "You know what, based off what I am bringing to the table, I think I am this plus 25 percent." And my team lead, because we don't actually have bosses, said, "I needed you to say that." She said, "I needed you to ask for more money because I wanted to give it to you, but I couldn't just offer it." So, they came back to me and were like, "Yes, we will give you everything you asked for." And you know, that is an amazing feeling.

Karen Civil, CEO of Live Civil and Always Civil

Karen Civil, CEO of Live Civil and Always Civil

Karen Civil is CEO of the marketing and branding agency Always Civil and founder of the blog site, Live Civil. She's been dubbed a "self-made marketing guru for the hip-hop generation" by Complex and has created branding campaigns for artists and companies including Lil Wayne, Beats by Dre and Nipsey Hussle. What was your first job out of school? My first job was at Burger King in Elizabeth, New Jersey. I was making $5.15 an hour. Were you paid fairly for the work you were doing at that time? If not, how did you find out you were underpaid? At the time, I thought I was. But after a few months, I learned that certain people who lacked the skills I possessed were getting paid $5.75 an hour. When the shift managers didn't find it necessary to give me a raise, I decided to move forward with a new job at Nautica where I was making $7.25 an hour. What negotiating advice do you wish you had known in your 20s? When you're an independent contractor/entrepreneur, you have to realistically know what's worth your time. My motto now is to never step over a dollar to pick up a nickel. You just have to understand that certain projects are not worth the energy. What advice do you have for black women today who are thinking about asking for a raise? If you're in a male-dominated industry, like myself in entertainment, you have to work twice as hard just to be respected or given the same opportunities as others. Some women think the way to combat this is to up-sell their talents while offering them at a discount. But the biggest mistake we can make is to undersell and overwork ourselves. If you do quality work, then you need to believe in yourself and never lose sight of your worth. Remember, don't be afraid to do your research and add that to your negotiation. You can include details like, "Other people in this position are making this annually," or "The average pay rate for this company is." This will show how serious and detail-oriented you are when dealing with business.

Minda Harts, CEO of The Memo

The Memo LLC founder Minda Harts

Minda Harts is the founder and CEO of The Memo LLC, a career development platform for women of color. She's also the creator of the #SecuretheSeat podcast and in 2016 was named a Change Maker at The White House State of Women Summit. What was your first job out of school? My first job out of college was an administrative assistant position. They offered me $28,000 and I asked for $30,000 and received it. It was more than my family's total household income growing up and I felt like it was a lot of money since I had spent my formative years working at fast food restaurants and grocery stores for minimum wage. Were you paid fairly for the work you were doing at that time? If not, how did you find out you were underpaid? At the time, I had no idea if I was being paid fairly or how to negotiate. I solely based my desired salary on how much my bills would be each month. Shortly after college, I signed a lease for a studio apartment in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. I knew that I had to make at least $30,000 to pay all of my bills and have a little bit left over. So that was the reason why I asked for more. What negotiating advice do you wish you had known in your 20s? In my 20s, I let companies and hiring managers tell me what I was worth. The main piece of advice I would give my younger self is to know your worth before you start any negotiation process because knowing your worth is the most important mindset shift you will ever make. What advice do you have for black women today who are thinking about asking for a raise? I think its important for young black women to conduct research on their desired position. Negotiation is a high stakes game and you can't show up unprepared. At the very least, you should know what the market rate is for the job. Knowing this information will set you up for success and allow you to incorporate this information into your counter-argument if you are being offered a salary lower than the going market rate.

Leslie Mac, community organizer, activist and writer

Community organizer and writer Leslie Mac
Apple has benefited from cheap labor and a strong supply chain in China and needs to share more of its profit with the Chinese people or face "anger and nationalist sentiment" amid the ongoing trade war, an article in the state-backed People's Daily warned Tuesday. The article originally appeared in another state-backed publication, Global Times, last week. The opinion piece highlights how Apple made $9.6 billion in revenues in China in the June quarter, which helped the U.S. giant to recently hit a $1 trillion valuation. But the continuing trade war between the U.S. and China could leave Apple and other U.S. firms vulnerable as "bargaining chips" for Beijing, according to the article. "The eye-catching success achieved in the Chinese market may provoke nationalist sentiment if U.S. President Donald Trump's recently adopted protectionist measures hit Chinese companies hard," the People's Daily said.

"China is by far the most important overseas market for the U.S.-based Apple, leaving it exposed if Chinese people make it a target of anger and nationalist sentiment. China doesn't want to close its doors to Apple despite the trade conflict, but if the U.S. company wants to earn good money in China, its needs to share its development dividends with the Chinese people." It's unclear how the publication thinks Apple should share its profits with Chinese citizens. Apple declined to comment. Last week, China said it was ready to retaliate with tariffs on around $60 billion of U.S. goods, just days after the U.S. administration revealed that Trump had spoken with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and asked him to consider increasing the proposed levies on $200 billion of Chinese goods up to 25 percent, from 10 percent. So far, Apple has been broadly insulated from the trade war. Trump reportedly told Apple CEO Tim Cook in June that iPhones assembled in China would be spared from levies. But People's Daily took issue with the economics of the iPhone. The article claimed that Chinese companies in Apple's supply chain only get 1.8 percent of total profits created by the flagship device. People's Daily did not cite where it got this figure from.

Ultimately, Chinese state media argued that U.S. companies could begin to enter the firing line in the conflict between the world's two largest economies. "The trade conflict initiated by the Trump administration reminds China to re-examine China-U.S. trade," People's Daily wrote. "It seems U.S. companies doing business in China are the biggest winners from China-U.S. trade. The Chinese market is vital for many top U.S. brands, giving Beijing more leeway to play hardball in the trade conflict."

WATCH: Samsung vs. Apple: Who's winning in China?
AT&T is buying Otter Media, the company announced Tuesday, confirming earlier reports and signalling the telecom giant is pushing ahead with its media-based M&A strategy despite continued challenges from the Justice Department.

AT&T already owned part of Otter Media and its video assets, but Recode reported in June it was looking to buy out the rest of the company at a valuation of around $1 billion. Terms of the deal were not disclosed Tuesday.

AT&T launched its media- and advertising-heavy strategy after completing its long-fought merger with Time Warner. CEO Randall Stephenson told CNBC after the deal closed that investors could expect "some smaller M&A in the coming weeks."
China's state media continued its aggressive rhetoric against U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, accusing Washington of being "double-faced" amid an ongoing trade dispute.

"Pointing China with (sic) gun and artillery and then asking for a talk, the U.S. showed zero sincerity," said the People's Daily newspaper late on Monday.

"Washington is playing double-faced tactics in the ongoing trade war," the official newspaper of the Chinese Communist Party said in its editorial.

The Trump administration has threatened to slap more tariffs on an increasing amount of Chinese goods while sending signals "through various ways that it is willing to negotiate with China," it said.

"From $50 billion, to $200 billion and then the proposed $500 billion, from 10 percent to 25 percent, Washington's tariff game has been seen through by China," it added.

The U.S. is using "carrot-and-stick diplomacy to bully China into unilateral trade concessions," but any move to "defeat China" will be futile, said the People's Daily.

The Communist Party paper said that Beijing would overcome the American "trade blackmail," adding: "China will not surrender to the US, nor could it ignore the trade war. The only way is to face it and win it."

On Tuesday, the official English newspaper China Daily also took issue with Trump's Sunday comments on Twitter that tariffs "are working big time."

Donald Trump on Twitter: Tariffs are working big time. Every country on earth wants to take wealth out of the U.S., always to our detriment. I say, as they come,Tax them. If they don't want to be taxed, let them make or build the product in the U.S. In either event, it means jobs and great wealth.....

The overall U.S. trade deficit jumped 7.3 percent in June and is on track to hit a 10-year high, noted China Daily.

"Certainly, his claim of victory over China in the current trade battle, and remarks such as China is 'doing poorly against us' and 'we are winning' are nothing more than wishful thinking and aimed at covering up the harm his administration's attack on Chinese trade is doing to the U.S. economy," the China Daily editorial said.
Disney's new movie "Christopher Robin" has reportedly been banned from release in China because its main character, a talking bear, has previously been likened to President Xi Jinping.

The movie is a 2018 fantasy comedy, based on the children's classic story about a bear called Winnie the Pooh, written by the author AA Milne.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, the new film will not be seen in China as Beijing is upset that the Pooh character has become a way for people to mock the president.

Tweet 1

Images of Xi as Pooh started in 2013 as Chinese internet users shared the comical take on social media platforms such as Weibo. The most popular meme depicted Xi and former U.S. President Barack Obama as Pooh and his friend Tigger.

A photo of Xi standing up through the roof of a parade car, next to a picture of Winnie the Pooh in a toy car, was named the "most censored image of 2015" by political consultancy Global Risk Insights.
The Turkish space agency will be founded this year, the country's industry and technology minister Mustafa Varank said.

"Work to form the Turkish space agency will be completed as soon as possible," Anadolu Agency cited the minister as saying.

He said the agency will set up a system that ensures coordination in the aerospace sector while protecting Turkeys national interests.

"Priority targets of the agency are to guide and coordinate the Turkish space sector, and manage international relations [concerning space] through a single desk," Varank added.

According to him, the new agency will pave the way for the establishment of a competitive indigenous industry.

"We are forming the Turkish space agency in order to strengthen our aerospace industry, improve scientific infrastructure and human resources in the field of space technology, and further boost our capacities and abilities," the minister explained.

Varank added that the agency will also pursue multilateral and bilateral cooperation with its international counterparts while protecting Turkey's rights at the United Nations.
Workers check television sets before they are repackaged at Element Electronics in Winnsboro, South Carolina.

A South Carolina television maker says it's laying off 126 workers because of President Donald Trump's tariffs on imports from China.

Element TV Company said in a letter to state employment officials Monday that workers will be let go Oct. 5, leaving a skeleton crew of eight employees to watch the Fairfield County plant in hopes it can reopen in three to six months.

Element says the tariffs are hitting key components it uses to assemble its U.S.-made televisions. The Trump administration imposed a 25 percent import tax that included Chinese components for TVs in July.

Fairfield County is 30 miles north of Columbia. The county lost about 5,000 jobs last summer when construction was halted on two nuclear reactors.

The layoffs were first reported by The State newspaper.
Cramer, whose charitable trust owns shares of Apple, argued that China's threat is like "playing with fire" and that Apple remains one of the largest employers in the country.

The Communist Party's official People's Daily warned on Tuesday that Apple and other U.S. firms could be vulnerable as "bargaining chips" for Beijing.

CNBC's Jim Cramer said Tuesday he's not convinced China will boycott Apple as part of the trade war with the United States.

"Apple could pull out of China," Cramer said on "Squawk on the Street." However, Cramer added that is also unlikely because China is a major market for Apple.

China accounts for the company's second-largest source of revenue, according to FactSet, behind only the U.S.

"A boycott is something everyone expects will happen, and it doesn't happen," Cramer, the host of "Mad Money," said. "I'm not buying it. I don't think there's a boycott."

"They would target some other companies first," he added.

President Donald Trump is attacking what he sees as unfair trade on a number of fronts. Trump has asked his trade representative to consider increasing the proposed levies on $200 billion of Chinese goods up to 25 percent.

As refreshed trade-related concerns have driven stocks lower, Cramer has previously said all he sees is "endless buying opportunities."

On Tuesday, Cramer said he wished the "trade rhetoric" wasn't as harsh, however.

CNBC's Sara Salinas contributed to this report.
It was a relatively calm market news day on Tuesday, and then Elon Musk's verified Twitter account lit up.

Around lunchtime, a tweet appeared that said Musk was mulling a take-private transaction for Tesla, his electric car company. Much more interesting, the tweet offered a target price, $420 a share, and said the financing was lined up.

Tweet

Tesla shares jumped almost immediately. Musk has 22.3 million followers on Twitter. The stock was already moving Tuesday after the Financial Times reported that Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund had taken a $2 billion stake in the company.

Securities lawyers said they were shocked by the tweet. "I do not believe this is the appropriate way to suggest going private," said Charles Elson, director of the John L. Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance at the University of Delaware.

The investing public believed what the tweet said. And if the content of the tweet wasn't true, lawyers said, it could set up Musk and the company for regulatory action and private lawsuits. A series of tweets that dribbled out on Musk's account later in the afternoon suggested they weren't a hoax. Tesla's shares were halted for pending news in midafternoon trading.

That news came out at around 3:30 p.m. ET via a Tesla blog post containing Musk's email to employees. The CEO said, "A final decision has not yet been made, but the reason for doing this is all about creating the environment for Tesla to operate best." He cited the potential for wild swings in the stock price "that can be a major distraction," the quarterly earnings cycle and being the target of short sellers.
Medallions are licenses to operate individual taxicabs in New York and in other cities.

According to a source cited by the Journal, Cohen's income from the medallion business in the past five years included hundreds of thousands of dollars that he received in cash and other payments.

The article said federal prosecutors in New York, who already were investigating Cohen for a variety of business dealings, now are eyeing whether the 51-year-old attorney underreported income from his taxi medallion business on his tax returns.

Cohen and his wife as of April owned or controlled a total of 54 medallions in New York and Chicago as of April.

The Journal additionally reported that prosecutors are investigating whether employees of a bank improperly allowed Cohen to get loans "for which he didn't provide adequate documentation."

And authorities are probing whether Cohen overstated his income on applications for loans and other refinancing efforts.

The article said prosecutors have subpoeaned Cohen's former accountant, Jeffrey Getzel, who had also worked as a accountant for Evgeny Freidman, a manager of taxi medallions who pleaded guilty this year to tax fraud.

Freidman is cooperating with federal prosecutors, according to the Journal.

Lanny Davis, a lawyer for Cohen, did not immediately respond to a request for comment from CNBC.

Cohen has been under investigation by prosecutors from the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York since at least earlier this year.

In April, FBI agents raided his office and residences in New York and seized hundreds of thousands of files.

Among those files was evidence relating to a $130,000 hush-money payment Cohen gave porn star Stormy Daniels shortly before the 2016 presidential election.

Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, has said the money was in exchange for her agreed-upon silence about an affair she claimed to have had with Trump in 2006.

The White House has denied that Trump had sex with Daniels. But Trump has acknowledged reimbursing Cohen for the payment to her.

Authorities are investigating whether that payment or the way it was handled constituted a violation of federal election law.

Prosecutors also are looking at a payment the publisher of the National Enquirer made in the months before the election to Playboy model Karen McDougal, who also claims to have had an affair with Trump. The supermarket tabloid never ran her account of that alleged relationship, which Trump has denied ever occurred.

Cohen secretly taped a conversation he had with Trump in 2016 discussing possibly buying the rights to McDougal's story.

The recent revelation of that tape's existence led Trump's current lawyer Rudy Giuliani to call Cohen a "scoundrel" and "a liar."
New York officials are investigating what they said appeared to be a fetus that was found on an American Airlines jet that landed at New York's LaGuardia Airport from Charlotte on Monday evening.

"The OCME can confirm we're investigating what we believe to be a human fetus found deceased on an airplane," the city's Office of Chief Medical Examiner said in a statement. "We will release determination when investigation is complete."

American Airlines Flight 1942, an Airbus A321, landed at 10:42 p.m. on Monday, an hour and 36 minutes after it departed Charlotte, North Carolina, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware.com. WNBC said the fetus was discovered in one of the airplane's lavatories by a cleaning crew on Tuesday morning.

The airline declined to say whether any of the passengers booked a so-called infant-in-arms ticket, to travel with a baby, or had given birth on the plane, or provide further detail.

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"As we continue to learn more about this tragic and sensitive situation, we are actively cooperating with law enforcement in its investigation," said American Airlines spokesman Matthew Miller.

The plane has been taken out of service and LaGuardia warned about delays on Tuesday morning.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversees the airport, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
A Google sign is seen during the China Digital Entertainment Expo and Conference in Shanghai, China August 3, 2018.

Google is welcome to return to China but only if it complies with the law, according to an opinion piece by state-backed newspaper People's Daily, after reports surfaced that the U.S. technology giant is planning to launch a censored version of its search service on the mainland.

The Intercept reported last week that Alphabet-owned Google is planning to re-launch its search engine in China and that it would blacklist certain websites and search terms. Google originally left China in 2010 over concerns regarding censorship.

Reports of such a move from Google raised concerns from privacy advocates because it would block material online that the Chinese government does not like. But the country's state-backed media has taken a different view.

"Regardless of its withdrawal, or whether it can regain access to the mainland, Google has been a politicized brand. This is undoubtedly a tragedy for this well-known multinational company," People's Daily wrote in an article published Monday.

"The decision to exit the Chinese market was a huge blunder, which made the company miss golden chances in the mainland's internet development."

People's Daily said Google is "welcome to return to the mainland, but it's a prerequisite that it must comply with the requirements of the law."

Those requirements are essentially policed by Beijing's so-called Great Firewall, which is a huge policy of censorship. For example, Google can't be accessed right now by most Chinese internet users. And many other services, including Facebook, are also blocked. Some websites can also be censored if they are deemed unfavorable.

The link to the opinion piece is broken but CNBC made a screen grab of the page before it mysteriously disappeared.
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks. Stegerphoto | Getty Images

In the midst of relaxing summer days and long-awaited vacations, there's a tiny enemy that's causing oversize worry: ticks. Blacklegged ticks infected with the Lyme disease bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi are wreaking havoc in the northeastern, mid-Atlantic, and north-central states, as well as the West Coast, particularly in northern California. Lyme disease accounts for more than 80 percent of tick-borne diseases and, even if caught and treated, can cause long-lasting and debilitating symptoms. In May the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the number of people getting diseases from ticks, mosquitoes and fleas has more than tripled in the United States, with more than 640,000 cases reported during the 13 years from 2004 through 2016. In just the past year, celebrities Kelly Osbourne and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Yolanda Hadid both released memoirs detailing their agonizing struggle with the disease and why it took so long for doctors to diagnose it. In fact, before finally testing positive for Lyme, Osbourne's doctors told her she had epilepsy. But there are glimmers of hope, experts say. New tests to more accurately detect Lyme are in the works, including one that uses a urine sample to more quickly detect the presence of the bacteria that causes the disease. And last year a French company, Valneva, received fast-track status from the FDA for a vaccine for Lyme disease. In the meantime, Lyme is affecting more people and is spreading to more states across the country. If left untreated, the disease can cause fever, fatigue, joint pain and eventually damage to the nervous system and heart. Fourteen states in the Northeast and upper Midwest, including Minnesota, Michigan, Maine and New Hampshire, have the greatest number of reported cases, according to the CDC, but nearly every state has been touched by it. Researchers at the CDC say there are several reasons why Lyme is on the rise. For starters, we're a more mobile society. As goods and humans increasingly move around the world, ticks travel with them, introducing the disease to new locales quickly. Couple that with environmental changes, like global warming, and woefully inadequate prevention efforts on both the federal and state level, and it's no wonder why Amy Schwartz, an epidemiologist with the CDC's division of vector-borne diseases, said Lyme disease is "not going away anytime soon."

A national health crisis

Making the disease even harder to battle, researchers say, is the fact that it is vastly underreported. Schwartz said about 30,000 cases of Lyme disease are reported in the United States each year (up from 10,000 a year in 1998), but about 300,000 cases annually are actually diagnosed, triple the amount from two decades ago. She said doctors are required to report cases of Lyme disease to their local health departments, but admits "that doesn't always happen." Dorothy Leland, vice president for education and outreach at LymeDisease.org, a patient advocacy group, discovered that. She claimed that in 2005 her then 13-year-old daughter became quite ill. Doctors couldn't figure out the cause but ruled out Lyme because they told her the disease wasn't present in her home state of California. It took another year until Leland's daughter was diagnosed, but by then the teenager was so debilitated she spent three years in a wheelchair. "They wouldn't even go down the path of considering that it could have been Lyme, because they said it didn't happen in California," she said. The other challenge with Lyme is that the available tests for it are not always accurate. As a result, people who have been bitten often suffer for months or, in the case of Hadid and Osbourne, for years until properly diagnosed. Here's why: The current blood test for the disease relies on detecting antibodies. Those are the proteins the body's immune system produces to fight the disease. The test doesn't detect the disease itself. The problem with this, said the CDC, is that a person isn't likely to test positive for Lyme until they've been infected for anywhere from four to six weeks. That's why doctors who suspect a patient has Lyme disease based on symptoms (rash, joint pain, and fatigue among them) should prescribe antibiotics even if the test is negative in the beginning.

Breakthrough science in the making
On Monday, PepsiCo announced that CEO Indra Nooyi will step down in October. Nooyi, who has led the company for 12 years, will be replaced by current president Ramon Laguarta.

Her departure comes at a time when women make up just 4.8 percent of Fortune 500 CEOs, and just 25 women hold the CEO spot at S&P 500 companies, according to research group Catalyst. When Nooyi officially steps down, that number will decrease to 24 until Kathryn Warden steps into her role as the CEO of Northrop Grumman in January 2019.

Her exit also comes on the heels of several other departures by female CEOs, including Campbell Soup CEO Denise Morrison, Hewlett Packard CEO Meg Whitman and Mondelez CEO Irene Rosenfeld.

Lisa Mann, CEO and founder of Think Marketing, tells CNBC's "Power Lunch" that Nooyi's departure speaks volumes about the growing concern around corporate America's ability to keep female leaders.

"Companies should be embracing their VPs and SVPs who are women and nurturing them to be leaders in business," says Mann, who once worked at PepsiCo under Nooyi's leadership. She emphasizes that 80 percent of consumer purchasing power is held by women.

Nooyi, who joined PepsiCo in 1994 as head of strategy, has been open about her belief that companies need to do a better job of diversifying their leadership by hiring more women and people of color. But she points out that the drop-off in women leaders is not only attributed to the professional pain points women experience throughout a career, but the personal ones as well.

"We get a lot of women in at the entry-level positions. As you get to middle management, women rise to those positions, and then that's the childbearing years," she told the Freakonomics radio show in February. "And when they have children, it's difficult to balance having children, your career, your marriage, and be a high-potential out-performer who's going to grow in the company."
NewTV, a subscription streaming service for premium short-form content launching by Christmas of 2019, will disrupt Hollywood the way HBO did in the 1990s, founder Jeffrey Katzenberg said.

Although people are used to getting short-form content on their mobile devices for free, the quality of NewTV's content will convince customers to subscribe, according to Katzenberg, who is a former chairman of Disney Studios.

"Even though there was all the television in the world [in the 1990s], it was all free, all available, many  tens of millions  of people went to HBO, because what they did offer was exceptional," he told CNBC's Julia Boortsin. "We believe what you have in short-form today, we are delivering in new form. We believe the delta, the exceptionalness, will be as great."

The new venture will be run by Katzenberg, who will lead content, and former Hewlett Packard Enterprise CEO Meg Whitman, who will handle business and technology. NewTV has some powerful backing, with media giants including Comcast's NBCUniversal, Disney and Alibaba teaming up to invest $1 billion in the company.

Alibaba will also be collaborating on the technological side of the business, Whitman said, which will be dependent on the spread of 5G.

"Think about what 5G will be able to do in terms of display, sound, instant discovery," Whitman said. "We think that's another element of the wind at our back in this new venture."

A major focus of NewTV will be concentrating both the platform and content to be used on mobile devices, an aspect Katzenberg said has been neglected by streaming competitors.

"Literally less than 10 percent of Netflix's viewing, less than 10 percent of Hulu's viewing is actually mobile. It's not optimized for it either," he said. "If we are right, and if it is successful, others will follow."

Disclosure: Comcast, which owns NBCUniversal, parent company of CNBC and CNBC.com, is a co-owner of Hulu.


Packages of vanilla ice cream move along a conveyer belt at Turkey Hill LP's production facility in Contestoga, Pennsylvania.

Kroger said on Tuesday it is exploring options, including a potential sale, of its Turkey Hill ice cream brand, the latest of its efforts to pare down its business as it focuses on building a grocery juggernaut to compete with the likes of Amazon and Walmart.

The move follows the sale of its convenience store business earlier this year for $2.15 billion and several investments to bulk up the e-commerce end of its grocery business. Those efforts include a stake in British online supermarket Ocado, the acquisition of meal kit company Home Chef and launch of grocery delivery service Kroger Ship.

Kroger has hired investment bank Goldman Sachs for the review, it said.

Turkey Hill employs nearly 800 full-time, part-time and seasonal associates and owns a manufacturing and distribution facility in Conestoga, Pennsylvania.

Its products include ice cream, iced tea, iced coffee and eggnog.
A delegation of Turkish officials will head to Washington in two days to discuss an ongoing row between the two NATO allies, broadcaster CNN Turk reported on Tuesday, citing diplomatic sources.

CNN Turk cited diplomatic sources saying that Ankara and Washington had reached pre-agreements on certain issues, but it did not elaborate.

The Turkish government was not immediately available for comment, and the U.S. State Department did not respond to a request for comment, Reuters reports.
Ola, an Indian ride-hailing app that is backed by SoftBank, said Tuesday it would launch in the U.K., its first market in Europe.

The company has obtained a license in South Wales and Manchester, a city in the north of England, and will start operating in those regions within the next month.

But the U.K. is an extremely competitive market. Uber entered the country in 2012 and other apps such as Gett exist too. There are also a number of minicab firms as well as the iconic black cabs, particularly in London. Drivers of black cabs have protested against Uber over the years, saying the company does not adhere to the same rules that they have to. Uber recently lost its license to operate in London before a court case overturned the ruling.

With these issues in the background, Ola has taken a different approach to its U.K. launch. It will allow both private hire vehicles and black cabs to be on its platform. Ola said that it is working with local authorities to expand its services nationwide by the end of 2018.

Ola is one of India's biggest technology firms and is backed by the likes of Chinese internet giant Tencent and SoftBank. It is valued at around $7 billion, CNBC reported in October. SoftBank is also an investor in Uber too. The money has been used by Ola to expand out of its home market into new countries including Australia and now the U.K.


Russia said Tuesday it will do "everything necessary" to save the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and protect its shared economic interests with Tehran.

The Iran nuclear deal is an accord between Iran and the U.S., Russia, Britain, Germany, France, China and the European Union. It was an agreement to lift sanctions on Iran in exchange for the country stopping its program to develop more nuclear capability.

The United States, however, reinstated some sanctions on Iran Tuesday and has said it will expand the punitive measures in the coming weeks to include tougher ones related to oil production.

The Russian foreign ministry website published a statement Tuesday stating that Moscow is "deeply disappointed by U.S. steps to reimpose its national sanctions against Iran," before adding, "We will do everything necessary in the interests of preserving and fully implementing the SVPD (Iran nuclear deal)."
President Donald Trump shakes hands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as they begin a meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, on June 26, 2017.

India officially entered the ongoing global trade war in June when it announced retaliatory tariffs against Washington's steel and aluminum import duties. If implemented, the South Asian nation risks a targeted response from President Donald Trump's White House.

New Delhi's proposed tariff hikes on 29 U.S. products  including almonds, apples, walnuts and certain stainless steel products  are worth $241 million and were meant to go into effect on Aug. 4.

But Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government decided last week to delay the hikes, and may postpone tariffs until next month amid ongoing negotiations with U.S. officials, according to local news outlets.

If the two countries cannot reach a deal, New Delhi's tariffs will go ahead as planned  a move that could push Washington to respond with India-specific actions, similiar to what it's done with China. That, in turn, could spell trouble ahead for Modi as he campaigns for re-election next year, analysts say.

If the White House turns its attention to India's biggest exports to the U.S.  such as diamonds, seafood, auto parts and medicine  that could be risky for Modi and the Indian economy, said Amitendu Palit, a senior fellow specializing in trade and economic policy at the National University of Singapore.

Trump's team could also pressure on New Delhi to open up its agriculture and dairy industries, which are politically sensitive sectors in India's rural-based economy, Palit continued.

The world's largest democracy is known for high levies on agricultural imports as a means to safeguard the livelihood of its massive farmer population. Recent droughts and falling commodity prices have also triggered a hike in Indian import duties. In February, the government doubled levies on sugar to 100 percent, while chickpeas saw an increase to 40 percent.

The U.S. has previously urged India to keep agricultural tariffs low but since India's tit-for-tat measures mostly focus on agriculture, Washington now has a fresh opportunity to up the ante.

India boasts competitive advantages over the U.S. on services such as information technology, and its service exports are already under threat as the Trump administration tightens H-1B visa rules. Scores of Indian IT professionals are presently employed in the world's largest economy through the H-1B visa, and stricter procedures on issuance could limit the number of Indians working there.
Russian President Vladimir Putin (R) shakes hands with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping during a signing ceremony following the talks at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia July 4, 2017.

HUNTSVILLE, Ala.  America's top nuclear commander warned Tuesday that Russia and China are not "our friends" as Moscow and Beijing sprint to develop hypersonic weapons, a threat the United States currently cannot defend against.

"You can't call them [Russia and China] our friends if they're building weapons that can destroy the United States of America and, therefore, we have to develop the capability to respond," Air Force Gen. John Hyten, commander of U.S. Strategic Command said at the Space and Missile Defense Symposium in Huntsville, Alabama.

Hyten added that the Pentagon has nearly a dozen programs tasked with developing and defending against the new breed of weapons.

"I always wish we started [working on hypersonics] five years ago or 10 years ago because then we wouldn't be worried ... but we didn't so we have to step up now, and we are," he said.

The Pentagon awarded Lockheed Martin a $928 million U.S. Air Force contract in April for an undefined number of hypersonic strike weapons. Per the multimillion-dollar contract, Lockheed will be responsible for designing, engineering, weapon integration and logistical support.

Read more: Russia and China are 'aggressively developing' hypersonic weapons  here's what they are and why the US can't defend against them

A hypersonic weapon is a missile that travels at Mach 5 or higher, which is at least five times faster than the speed of sound. That means a hypersonic weapon can travel about one mile per second.

Hyten's warning also comes as the U.S. is embroiled in an escalating trade conflict with China and as the national security community warns that Russia is continuing to attack America's elections.

Hyten, who has previously called Russia the "most significant threat" to the U.S., recently described a grim scenario for American forces facing off against hypersonic weapons earlier this year.
Verizon's recently created media subsidiary housing the acquisitions of faded tech brands AOL and Yahoo was given a name that raised some eyebrows  Oath  and there has been speculation that a spinoff might still be coming. Among those who don't get the name and think there are better corporate options include former Yahoo CFO Ken Goldman.

"I have a hard time getting my arms around that name. Sorry," Goldman said on CNBC's Squawk Box Tuesday morning.

But Goldman backs an idea Verizon management has been resisting: eliminating its new brand-name problem by spinning off AOL and Yahoo as a separate publicly traded company, while retaining an 80 percent ownership stake.

"I could tell you what I would do if I were in their shoes. ... I would offload 20 percent," Goldman said.

The former Yahoo CFO said motivating employees at the acquired companies would be a driver for the deal.

"Now you have a public company. You can give stock to those employees, so you can motivate those employees," he said. "Let me put it into perspective. You're an employee at Yahoo. You've been running this independent company for 20 years."
White House national security advisor John Bolton said Tuesday that North Korea has not taken the proper steps toward denuclearization, despite an agreement between Pyongyang leader Kim Jong Un and President Donald Trump in June.

Bolton also said Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was prepared to return to North Korea for another meeting with Kim.

"The U.S. has lived up to the Singapore declaration," Bolton said in a Fox News interview Tuesday morning. "It's just North Korea that has not taken the steps that we feel are necessary to denuclearize."

The hawkish advisor vowed that the U.S. would keep up its "maximum pressure" sanctions campaign against Kim's regime until North Korea denuclearizes completely.

"The idea that we're going to relax the sanctions just on North Korea's say-so I think is something that just isn't under consideration," Bolton said.

Bolton's remarks followed recent actions from North Korea, including the return of remains of some Americans killed during the Korean War, that the Trump administration had hailed as signs of progress between the two countries. Vice President Mike Pence flew to Hawaii to receive the 55 sets of remains.

Trump tweeted his appreciation and suggested another meeting with Kim may be forthcoming. "Thank you to Chairman Kim Jong Un for keeping your word & starting the process of sending home the remains of our great and beloved missing fallen!" Trump wrote on Aug. 1. "I look forward to seeing you soon!"

But Bolton took issue with this North Korean gesture, as well. "What a nation that was truly committed to turning the page would do here is return the remains of all the soldiers," he said during the interview.

Trump and Kim traveled to Singapore on June 12 for an unprecedented meeting between a U.S. and North Korean leader. Following the meeting, Trump and Kim signed a joint statement in which the North Korean leader "reaffirmed his firm and unwavering commitment to complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula."

Upon his return to the U.S., Trump announced in a Twitter post that "there is no longer a Nuclear Threat from North Korea."

Trump tweet

But The Washington Post reported on July 30, citing officials, that U.S. spy agencies have recently obtained evidence that North Korea is continuing to develop intercontinental ballistic missiles even after the summit.

The National Security Council did not immediately respond to a CNBC request for further comment on Bolton's remarks.

In a separate Fox interview on Monday, Bolton said if Iran wants to avoid the reimposition of U.S. sanctions, it should take up Trump's offer to negotiate.

Asked what the leaders of Iran could do, Bolton said: "They could take up the president's offer to negotiate with them, to give up their ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs fully and really verifiably not under the onerous terms of the Iran nuclear deal, which really are not satisfactory."

"If Iran were really serious they'd come to the table. We'll find out whether they are or not."

Reuters contributed to this report.
Zillow's big move into mortgage lending may hurt its profitability next year, according to Bank of America Merrill Lynch.

The firm lowered its rating on the online real estate company's shares to neutral from buy, citing increasing concerns over its business model shift.

Zillow shares plunged 16 percent Tuesday, a day after it reported second-quarter revenue of $325 million, just shy of consensus estimates of $326 million, according to Thomson Reuters. The company announced plans to acquire Mortgage Lenders of America, a national mortgage lender.

The integration of that business poses a risk for 2019 results at a time when Zillow is already under pressure, analyst Nat Schindler said in a note to clients. "The quarter revealed challenges for multiple business segments that limit our optimism on FY19 upside," he said.

Schindler lowered his price target to $60 from $70 for Zillow shares, representing 2 percent upside to Monday's close.

In April, Zillow announced a significant change to its business model, starting a capital-intensive business of buying and selling homes directly with consumers, expanding its offerings beyond its online real estate services. The Mortgage Lenders of America acquisition is intended to supplement that effort, the company said.

Schindler said in his note that Zillow is taking longer to get the homes business off the ground, with its revenue outlook for this fiscal year around $30 million, down from previously expected $190 million. "We think investors will wait for more clarity on the Homes and Mortgage businesses, now that management has sharply altered their trajectories."

Zillow did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The company's stock is up 45 percent this year through Monday versus the S&P 500's 7 percent gain.

 CNBC's Sara Salinas contributed to this report.
Nepal's trade deficit crossed the $10 billion mark for the first time in the last fiscal year 2017-18, that concluded in mid-July, due to surging imports against sluggish exports, Nepal's Department of Customs (DoC) said on Monday.

According to the statistics released by the DoC, trade deficit of the Himalayan country reached $10.55 billion in fiscal 2017-18.

The deficit more than doubled in just five years. In fiscal 2013-14, Nepal witnessed trade deficit of $4.87 billion, Xinhua reported.

Nepal's imports almost doubled in the last five years while exports grew slightly during the same period, contributing to the widening trade deficit.

Nepal's imports surged to $11.28 billion in fiscal 2017-18 from $5.57 billion in fiscal 2013-14 while exports grew to $737.56 million from $703.14 million during the same period.

Former Nepali Commerce Secretary Purusottam Ojha said that Nepal's failure to produce adequate agriculture and manufacturing products was mainly responsible for the stagnant exports.

"On the other hand, the government is more liberal on imports because it is heavily depended on import-driven revenues," he said.

Nepal has the largest trade deficit with India followed by China, the two largest trading partners and neighbours of the Himalayan country, according to the DoC.
President Donald Trump faces a test of his political influence on Tuesday in a special congressional election in Ohio that has become a referendum on his leadership and a last chance to gauge Democratic strength ahead of November's midterm elections.

The Ohio race for a US House of Representatives seat headlines a day of voting across the country that also features primaries in four other states. Other key contests include a Democratic battle for governor in Michigan between a progressive and a mainstream candidate and a high-profile conservative challenge to the incumbent Republican governor in Kansas.

Trump charged into the Ohio race, the final special election before November. He visited the reliably Republican 12th Congressional District over the weekend to try to head off an upset after polls showed a tightening battle between Republican Troy Balderson and Democrat Danny O'Connor.

The district, split between suburban Columbus and rural areas, has been represented by a Republican since the early 1980s. Trump carried it by 11 percentage points in the 2016 presidential race.

But O'Connor has wiped out most or all of Balderson's lead in polls, and a Democratic win would set off alarm bells for Republicans already worried by a series of strong performances in special elections by Democrats in the Trump era.

"A month ago this race was flying under the radar, but it has become nationalized and become more of a referendum on Trump, which really generates Democratic enthusiasm," said Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute.

A Monmouth poll last week showed the race was essentially a dead heat, down from a double-digit advantage for Balderson a month ago. In addition to more Democrats expressing high interest in the race, Murray said the shift was driven by independents unhappy with the status quo under Trump.

Democrats must pick up 23 seats in the House and two seats in the U.S. Senate to gain control of those chambers and put a brake on Trump's agenda. All 435 House seats, 35 of 100 Senate seats and 36 of 50 governors' offices are up for grabs in the Nov. 6 midterms.

Other well-known Republicans also trekked to Ohio, including Vice President Mike Pence. A Republican advocacy group aired an ad featuring praise for Balderson, a state lawmaker, from Ohio Governor John Kasich, a frequent critic of Trump.

Republicans have tried to paint O'Connor, a local county official, as a liberal who would follow House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi. But O'Connor has walked a more moderate line, saying he wants new party leadership in Congress and would work with Republicans, while also criticizing the Trump tax cut.

Michigan, Missouri, Kansas and Washington also hold primaries on Tuesday.

The Democratic race for governor in Michigan offers the next test of the electoral power of the party's progressive wing, with health director Abdul El-Sayed vying to become the country's first Muslim governor against a more moderate Democrat, former state Senate leader Gretchen Whitmer.

El-Sayed was endorsed by US Senator Bernie Sanders and campaigned recently with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the young democratic socialist whose shocking New York primary upset in June made her a movement star.

In Kansas, prominent conservative Kris Kobach, a national leader in the movement to restrict illegal immigration and pass more restrictive voting laws, is challenging Governor Jeff Colyer for the Republican gubernatorial nomination on Tuesday.

Trump endorsed Kobach, Kansas' secretary of state, on Monday. Kobach was an immigration adviser to Trump's campaign in 2016 and was vice chairman of Trump's commission to investigate voting fraud before the panel collapsed.
Assistance to families of martyrs, who died defending the country's territorial integrity, and war veterans is the focus of attention of the Azerbaijani state, being the priority sphere of President Ilham Aliyev's internal policy, the representatives of veterans' organizations of the republic said, speaking with the correspondents of Vestnik Kavkaza.

Last week, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed an order on additional measures to improve the social and living conditions of persons who became disabled while protecting the territorial integrity of the country. A total of 20 million manat (more than $11.7 million) were allocated from the Azerbaijani President's Reserve Fund for this purpose to the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population. On August 1, a ceremony was held in Lokbatan settlement, Garadagh district of Baku, to give out apartments and cars to veterans of the Karabakh and Great wars, the Chernobyl disabled and families of martyrs. The ceremony was attended by President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva.

The chairman of the Public Union of Karabakh Disabled War Veterans and Martyr Families, Mehdi Mehdiyev, stressed that the government created all conditions for the disabled and veterans. "We have a very serious legislative base in the sphere of social security of the population. I am sure that no other country has a stronger social legislation than Azerbaijan," he said.

Mehdi Mehdiyev recalled that in April, Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on additional measures to strengthen the social protection of family members of servicemen who died for the territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as those who were recognized as missing. According to the document, the heirs of the martyrs will receive a one-off allowance in the amount of 11,000 manat. "This is the first order after Ilham Aliyev was elected president of the country this year," the interlocutor of the agency pointed out.

The chairman of the public union noted that mass assistance to veterans and families of martyrs was made possible after 1997. "Since Azerbaijan strengthened, families of martyrs and Karabakh disabled were always at center of the country's attention. The president celebrated his birthday with the families of martyrs and Karabakh disabled, then he handed them keys to apartments and cars. The issue of their access to government health insurance is being discussed," Mehdi Mehdiyev said.

Deputy Chairman of the Republican Veterans' Organization Jalil Khalilov spoke about the priorities of the state in the matter of veteran assistance. "Veterans are a very sensitive segment of the population, so they are always under the close scrutiny of the country's leadership. The annual provision of cars and apartments for people with disabilities is an example of such care. As well as medical assistance to veterans of the Karabakh and Great Patriotic wars, the Chernobyl disabled and families of martyrs, they regularly receive increased benefits and pensions. In addition, much is being done to employ disabled war veterans," he said.

"Being a Deputy Chairman of the Republican Veterans' Organization and a member of the presidium of the CIS Coordination Council of veterans, I often travel abroad and hear a lot of good words about our president's activities in the matter of helping veterans," Jalil Khalilov pointed out.

Head of Education for Youth by Demobilized Military Public Association Emin Hasanli said that the list of those helped by the state regularly increases. "The war is not over yet, people continue to die or get injured, protecting the territorial integrity of the country. So their families automatically receive state support," he said.

Emin Hasanli stressed that Azerbaijan can be a record holder for social provision of veterans and families of martyrs. "In addition to apartments and cars, many people are given a presidential scholarship.Their children receive free education even in private universities and spend their holidays in summer camps free of charge. Every year disabled war veterans are treated in local or foreign clinics. Families of martyrs and veterans have many state privileges, and the society also actively helps them," the head of Education for Youth by Demobilized Military Public Association said.

He also noted that Azerbaijan wants to end the war by peaceful means. "We want a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, since we do not want the parties to suffer human losses. Unfortunately, Armenia does not want to hear our appeals for peace and continues its terrorist, occupation policy. We want the war to be over, and four UN resolutions demanding the complete withdrawal of Armenian troops from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan were executed," Emin Hasanli concluded.
Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said a recent proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump to enter into negotiations with Iran over the countrys nuclear issue is nothing but a "publicity stunt."

Zarif pointed to Washington's withdrawal from the historic nuclear accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), saying, "Who will believe that Trump wants to negotiate with Iran?"

"The hours of our negotiations with America were perhaps unprecedented in history; then Trump signs something and say all [those negotiations] are void; can you negotiate with this person? Is this [negotiations offer] anything but a publicity stunt?" PressTV cited the minister as saying.

Noting that the purpose and subject of any negotiations must be clear, Iran's top diplomat added, "Negotiations must be worth their while."

On July 30, Trump said that he is ready to meet his Iranian counterpart, Hassan Rouhani, any time they want to.
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Hey! Can you believe it?! After months of awkward puns about the pending "Android P release" (and let's not even get into the "leaks"), we finally have an official name and number for Google's next great Android offering: Android 9, Pie.

Yep  just Pie. It's short, it's sweet, and it's a heck of a lot faster to type than certain past Android version names (here's lookin' at you, Ice Cream Sandwich). And it's not just a name and a number, either: Android 9 is fully cooked, out of the oven, and on its way into the world as of this week.

So what's this newfangled Pie software actually all about? And what'll mean for you? Grab a fork and get ready to dig in: Here are answers to all of your burning (but hopefully not burnt) Pie questions.

[Get fresh tips and insight in your inbox every Friday with JR's new Android Intelligence insider's newsletter. Exclusive extras await!]

What are the biggest new features in Android 9?

Well, look at you, with the killer questions! That's a perfect place to start.

Pie really is oozing with changes, both transformative and subtle. If I had to pick the true "headline features" of the release, though, I'd probably go with two particularly shape-shifting things:

1. A new gesture navigation system

Surely you've heard about this by now, right? Android 9 introduces a whole new way of getting around your phone, which means a reimagined form for one of Android's most foundational elements: Instead of having the long-standard Back, Home, and Overview keys, Pie gives you just a single elongated Home button. A smaller Back button then pops in alongside it as needed.

You can tap the Home button to return to your home screen, long-press it to pull up Assistant, swipe up on it once to open the Overview interface, or swipe up on it twice (or long-swipe up on it) to open your app drawer from anywhere.

You can also swipe the button to the right to zip through your list of recently used apps and jump directly to any of 'em. And if you flick it to the right, you'll snap between your two most recently used apps or processes  much like double-tapping the Overview key does in earlier Android incarnations.

2. A new Overview interface

Speaking of Android's Overview function, the Overview interface itself takes on a wildly different identity from the past in Android Pie. Gone are the vertically scrolling cards of yore and in their place are large, horizontal images showing "live" views of every recent app you've had open.

You can scroll through 'em and either tap or swipe down on any app to open it in full or swipe upward on it to dismiss it from the list.

Wait  aren't there supposed to be some other features built in there? Smart this-or-that?

I can't get anything past you, can I? You're absolutely right: The new Overview setup includes an expanded version of the Smart Text Selection system introduced in Oreo. Here, that means you can highlight text on the screen within any app's thumbnail and then act on it  right in the Overview interface  without ever having to fully open the app in question.

So if, for example, you select a phone number, Android will pop up a link for you to dial it. If you select an address, you'll get a link to it in Maps. And if you select just regular ol' words, you'll get options to copy them, share them to another app, or perform a search on them  all without ever leaving the Overview interface.

You can also select an image from that same spot and then share it to another app  say, a photo-editing utility, a cloud storage service, or your favorite messaging tool  directly from the Overview screen.

Does anything else in Pie look different from what I have now?

Mais oui! (That's French for "Darn tootin', buckeroo.") Android 9 brings some pretty dramatic fresh coats of paints to the Android interface, in fact.

Overview and navigation elements aside, the most noticeable change is probably in the status bar, Quick Settings panel, and notification area. Love it or hate it, the system clock is now on the left  part of the move to provide better support for notch-packin' devices. And once you swipe down, everything is much more...round. And blue.

The same general vibe carries through to the system settings, too:

I guess design really is a circular thing.

Okay, but will any of this even come to my phone? Or any phone other than a Pixel?

That's another good question. (I knew I hung out with you for a reason!) Just as you assumed, all of the visual changes from Android 9 will absolutely be coming to Pixel and Android One devices, as those phones use Google's version of the operating system.

As for other devices  well, it's just hard to say at this point. Google has been clear from the get-go that many of Pie's changes will be limited in their reach. That being said, the company tells me that most of the elements  including the gesture nav system and the new Overview design  are indeed part of the open-source Android code provided to device-makers, despite early signs to the contrary.

That means it'll ultimately be up to each manufacturer to decide if and how they want to use each of those elements. We've certainly seen third-party companies disregard new Android standards and stick with their own implementations plenty of times before (hi, Samsung navigation buttons!), so it wouldn't be entirely surprising to see that happen again now. And we know that lots of phone-makers frequently ignore Google's more superficial design choices in favor of their own homemade alternatives.

For lack of a better answer, then: Only time will tell. But at least some of Pie's new visuals seem unlikely to appear everywhere.

Well, tell me this: If my phone does get this stuff, do I have to use it? Or can I stick with my current setup?

The answer, in both cases, is both yes and no.

As of now, Pie's gesture navigation system is totally optional. You can choose to enable or disable it  and it's disabled by default. If you leave it off, you'll have the regular ol' Back, Home, and Overview buttons that you know and adore.

BUT! With Google's setup, at least, you're stuck with the new Overview interface no matter what. If you forgo the gesture nav system, you'll get to it by pressing the traditional Overview key  but the new interface is still what'll greet you when you arrive.

And from the sounds of it, gesture nav may indeed become the default in the not-so-distant future. Google has said its upcoming Pixel 3 phone will ship with the new gesture navigation system enabled out of the box (but not without the option to switch back to the traditional setup, as had originally been reported). Beyond that, as we established a moment ago, it'll be up to each manufacturer to decide how things are handled on its devices.

What happens to Android's split screen and app pinning features in this wild new world?

Nothing gets by you, does it? Well, my astute amigo, here's the answer: Both of them are now part of the new Overview interface. See those icons atop the app preview cards?

You can tap them, and up pops up a menu with options for app info, split screen, and pinning.

Not entirely obvious right off the bat, but once you figure out that the menu is tucked away in that spot, it's pretty easy to use.

All right  enough with the Overview stuff. What else will Pie do to make my phone more pleasant to use?

Now we're talkin'! Android 9 has a lot of subtle changes that'll definitely make an impact on your day-to-day life. A few noteworthy high points:

New volume controls

When you press your phone's volume-up or volume-down button, the controls now appear in a vertical panel off to the side of the screen  an ergonomic improvement over the top-of-display controls from Android versions past.

Also, the volume buttons now control media playback by default  so unless you're actively in a call, pressing volume-up or volume-down will adjust the level of music, videos, or whatever else might be playing on your phone. (And you can then access other volume controls with one more tap, when needed.)

Less annoying screen rotation

You know that thing when you're holding your phone at a slight angle and it starts to rotate your display into landscape orientation, even though you didn't want it to? Yeah  with Pie, that irritation is no more: Android 9 implements a new screen rotation button that appears in the lower-right corner of your display whenever the phone detects it's being rotated. It's then up to you to tap that button if you actually want the display to rotate; otherwise, it'll stay as it is and avoid driving you batty.

(That's also an option that can be enabled or disabled in the system settings, by the way  so if you really prefer the auto-rotating behavior, it can still be yours.)

Smarter screenshot tools

Whenever you capture a screenshot in Android 9, the system gives you a prompt to share, edit, or delete the image with a single tap. Selecting "Edit" takes you to a new native screenshot editor, with easy-to-use commands for cropping the image, highlighting it, and annotating it  and then saving or sharing your final result.

Huh. Who woulda thunk?

Can't you give me something more exciting? What about notifications  does Pie do anything new with those?

Getting feisty, are we? I tell ya, you're lucky I like you so much. Android 9 does have some new notification stuff: First, managing notifications is much easier with Pie. When you long-press any notification, you get a simplified plain-English prompt asking whether you want to keep seeing alerts from the associated app or process:

You can still hit that little "info" icon to get to the app's full list of notification channels and take super-granular control over what specific types of alerts get through (and in what manner)  but for the casual user, the initial prompt is now much more approachable.

On a similar note, Pie takes note when you frequently dismiss a specific type of notification without acting on it and then points that pattern out to you and asks if you'd like to stop getting said notifications. It's a more proactive approach to notification management that'll remind you (and especially more casual users) that options for cranking down notification frequency are, in fact, available.

What else? There's a new universal Smart Reply system that suggests prewritten responses to messages within notifications  just like the Smart Reply suggestions you see in Gmail. It'll be up to app developers to add support for it, so you may not see it everywhere immediately. Apps in Pie can also show images and full conversations within notifications, pending developer support, and notifications themselves no longer get dismissed automatically when you use their "Reply" function.

What about all this A.I. hullabaloo I keep hearing about  something to do with making it easier to find what I need in apps, or some such?

Some such, indeed: Android 9 has two new A.I.-powered systems for helping surface individual actions from apps. The first is called App Actions. It's basically just a new row of tile-like cards at the top of your app drawer with contextual suggestions for specific tasks you might want to perform  based on the time, day, and other relevant variables.

For instance, if it's a time and day when you usually go to work, you might see a card with a direct action for pulling up navigation to your work address in Maps. If you usually call your significant other on your way home from work, you might see a tile to perform that action around that time. And if you usually launch a particular playlist in a streaming app right after you connect your headphones, you might see a shortcut to that action whenever your headphones come online.

The second system is something called Slices, and it's one we've yet to see in action. Slices will essentially bring bits of apps into search  so, to use the one example that's been mentioned repeatedly, you might search for something like "Lyft" in your home screen search box, and Google would show you things like the current wait time for a ride along with icons to order a ride right then and there.

The basic idea is to allow you to interact with info from an app without ever having to open the app  and Google has hinted that the search box may only be the first of numerous places where such possibilities could eventually be present. The system certainly sounds like it has the potential to be helpful, though it'll ultimately depend on how many apps get on board with it and how reliable it becomes.

Slices is set to roll out to Pie-running devices later this fall.

Okay, then  battery life? Performance? Anything new with either in Pie?

Naturally! I mean, c'mon: Have you ever heard of an OS release that doesn't promise better performance, stronger stamina, and more cuddle time when you're finished? It's practically par for the course in this domain.

Android 9 is no exception: The latest version of Android has lots of impressive-sounding technical mumbo-jumbo about code optimization, faster app startup times, lower memory footprints, and whiter teeth for a more confident-looking smile. (Okay, I think that last one was from an infomercial I saw last night. I'm starting to lose track.)

While the performance part is hard to assess at this point  most modern devices are plenty fast, and any improvements in speed are tricky to truly notice  the battery life bit does seem genuinely promising, thanks to a series of significant improvements.

First is Adaptive Brightness, in which Android learns how you prefer to have your screen brightness set in different lighting environments and then starts to adjust it automatically based on that same model. Displays are almost always among the biggest power-drainers on modern devices, so more effective brightness management should be beneficial not only to your eyes but also to your battery.

Then there's the aptly named Adaptive Battery, which learns how you use apps over time and then limits the power-draining capabilities of any programs you don't open often. That works hand in hand with a more power-efficient method of allowing apps to operate when your phone's display is off  and together, they should allow each charge of your device's battery to take you a meaningful touch further.

Got it. What about privacy and security? What's new there?

Quite a bit, actually  so much, in fact, that I wrote a whole separate story about it.

That's all incredibly important stuff to acknowledge, too, because it demonstrates why OS updates truly still matter  even if a release's flashier front-facing features may not always be relevant or exciting for you, personally.

Hang on  isn't there also some 'digital wellbeing' flimflam baked into this virtual pastry?

First of all, excellent use of "flimflam"  and kudos, too, on the pastry pun. My compliments to the chef.

Android 9 does have a whole new program called Digital Wellbeing (a proper noun, even), though it isn't ready to be served just yet. As of now, Google says only that it'll be coming to the Pixel first, this fall, and then onto Android One and "other devices" later this year.

For the moment, it's available to Pixel users as an "exclusive beta." If you have a Pixel phone and want to try it out, you can sign up for access here.

Google

So what is it, exactly? The short version is that Digital Wellbeing works to help you understand exactly how you're using your phone and then, if you're so inclined, to try to Net Nanny yourself into using it less often. It has a Dashboard (capital "D") with detailed info on how long you use different apps each day, how many times you unlock your phone, and how many notifications you receive; a Wind Down mode that automatically puts your device into Do Not Disturb and fades your display to grayscale as the evening hours creep in; and app timers to let you limit the amount of time you spend in specific apps  at least, until you manually deactivate said timers and check your news feed, anyway.

Seems like there must be some incredibly important enterprise features Android 9 enables. Right?

My goodness, you're good. All right  ready? Let's do this power-round-style...

Android Pie brings the following new enhancements to worker bees and the queen IT bees (a.k.a. admins) who oversee them:

Support for multiple users on dedicated devices

A separate tab for work apps that can be toggled on or off (also toggling on or off work-related notifications) as needed

In-app switching between work and personal profiles for apps that exist in both domains

Suggestions specific to work-related apps within the aforementioned App Actions systems

The ability for admins to set "freeze periods" in which no devices receive over-the-air system updates

The ability for admins to hide entire parts of the Android interface  like the status bar or navigation area, for instance  to make it easier for devices to serve as point-of-sale systems or kiosks

The ability for admins to set custom home screens with specific sets of apps that users can toggle between for different purposes

The ability for admins to set different PIN and timeout requirements for personal and work profiles

New policies to tighten down on data sharing across different profiles

New systems to better identify devices tapping into corporate resources via a combination of keys and certificates.

Digital TPS report cover sheets with patented eLumbergh protection (if you have to ask what that means, flick yourself on the shoulder twice as punishment)

Whew! Still awake? Nice work, team. (And yes, I made that last one up. But you have to admit, it'd be a greaaat addition. Yeaaaaaah.)

Hold your horses, mister. We're going from 8.1-something to 9.0, and that's it? Surely there's something else new here?

Well, sure, my fellow cowpoke: Just like any operating system update, Pie has its share of easily overlooked little touches  both beneath the surface and lurking around its upper layers.

I went through some such noteworthy additions here, including a smarter way to handle Wi-Fi hotspots, a welcome twist to Android's Battery Saver mode, and a neat new touch for your phone's fingerprint sensor.

Beyond those, Android 9 has a bunch of random little improvements:

Support for up to five simultaneous Bluetooth connections, with seamless switching between 'em

Device-specific volume memory for Bluetooth  so your phone will remember the last volume you used for each specific Bluetooth device that connects (nifty!)

Support for HDR-enabled movies on YouTube and Google Play Movies

"Improved performance and support" for HD Audio (whatever that means)

Support for High Efficiency Image File Format (HEIF) files  a newer kind of lower-storage-requiring image file format

Support for headsets with sound delay reporting

And, of course, built-in support for devices with notches (joy, oh joy  right?)

What about updates? Isn't Pie supposed to be the release where all this Project Treble stuff pays off and makes rollouts faster?

Yes  at least in theory. In case you haven't kept up on your Android geek-talk, Project Treble creates a "modular base" for Android so that much of the hardware-specific code exists in a separate layer beneath the rest of the operating system. That, in turn, takes away some of the effort required for manufacturers to update their phones and tablets every time a new release comes in. And since Treble made its official debut with Oreo, there are now plenty of phones out in the wild that were built with that system in mind.

By all counts, that should make at least some level of difference in how rollouts progress  but even now, asterisks remain, and Treble won't necessarily bring the colossal universal fix some folks are expecting.

Check out my exclusive interview with Google on this subject for an in-depth look at how Project Treble has progressed with Android Pie and what, realistically, we should expect in terms of results.

All right, just tell me: When will my device get Pie?

Ah, if only it were so simple.

As always, it's up to each manufacturer to provide the software to its phones and tablets  and as always, most manufacturers aren't making specific commitments about when (or even if) they'll deliver this latest version of Android to their various devices.

That being said, we can use the wealth of data at our fingertips to get at least a general idea of how different manufacturers have prioritized upgrades (or not) in recent Android release cycles. With any luck, Treble will improve a portion of that picture  but it's all still relative.

Here's what we can say for certain right now: Android 9 is already rolling out to Google's Pixel phones and to the Essential Phone. Google says Android One devices and the devices that were involved in the Android P beta program should be getting the update by the "end of this fall"  which would mean no later than December 20th.

Beyond that, it's all in the manufacturers' hands  and all we can do is wait and see.

So what am I supposed to do while I wait?

Eat pie, obviously. But that aside, you could go try out some clever apps that'll put Pie-like features  sometimes even with superior twists  on any device right now.

Why does Google name all of its Android releases after desserts, anyway?

Because Pie and Oreo are far less pretentious-sounding than, say, El Capitan or High Sierra.

Plus, it's obviously part of a huge conspiracy with the dessert industry to get us all to eat lots of delicious things and grow extra jolly in the bellies.

What in the world are they gonna name Android Q next year?!

I'm still hoping for Quandong.

What comes after Android Z?

That's when we all realize we've been living in the matrix this entire time, we are our phones, and the one real thing in this world of ours was Keanu Reeves.

Whoaaaaa.

Precisely, my friend. Precisely.

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[Android Intelligence videos at Computerworld]
No deal 1) Police and crime commissioners call on Javid to make contingency plans

Leaked letter speaks of significant loss of operational capacity  Guardian

Whitehall row breaks out over no deal planning  Daily Telegraph

A hard Brexit would pose a risk to public safety, police leaders have warned in a leaked letter. Police and crime commissioners called on Sajid Javid, the home secretary, to draft contingency plans for a no-deal Brexit immediately. They said that police forces would face a significant loss of operational capacity, instantly losing vital access to cross-border investigative powers and databases. Sterling fell to an 11-month low amid growing fears of Britain leaving the EU without a negotiated settlement. Under such a scenario, Brussels has said that it plans to switch off UK access to databases that allow European police forces to share information on suspects and missing persons. Police could also lose access to the EU criminal records database.  The Times

>Today: Henry Newmans column: The ticking Brexit clock demands clarity from both sides, but also adds to the risk of No Deal

No deal 2) Sturgeon claims May is making damaging outcome more likely

Nicola Sturgeon has accused Theresa May of making a deeply damaging no-deal Brexit more likely by repeatedly raising the prospect as a negotiating tactic before what is likely to be a tense summit between the two leaders. The Scottish first minister complained that there had been no visible progress in the divorce talks since the Chequers plan was unveiled in July and told May that she needed to spell out the future relationship the UK sought to have with the EU. A no-deal Brexit would be utterly unacceptable and deeply damaging, but by talking it up as a negotiating tactic there is a very real danger it becomes a reality, Sturgeon warned.  Guardian

She will confront her  Herald

No deal 3) Davis says EU has made massive miscalculation about British likelihood of walking away

David Davis has warned the EU is making a massive miscalculation over Brexit and said Brits are ready to walk away from talks with no deal. The former Brexit Secretary has told Brussels they will be making a huge mistake if they think Theresa May isnt willing to exit the bloc rather than accept a weak agreement.  It comes after Liam Foxs assessment that the probability of a no-deal outcome was 60-40. The International Trade Secretary blamed the intransigence of the EU for the current impasse in Brexit talks. But Downing Street slapped down Mr Foxs claim, saying: We remain confident of getting a good deal. The fact is that we are ramping up our no deal preparations, as was planned, because there was always a possibility of no deal.  The Sun

Editorial:

Brussels should accept Chequers fudge  The Sun

No deal 4) Jenkin accuses government of spreading gloom and alarm

Veteran Conservative MP Sir Bernard Jenkin accused the Government and parts of industry of spreading needless gloom and alarm, as he insisted cross-Channel trade would simply continue as now. Separately, the European Commission was stung into denying senior Tories claims it was being so obstructive in Brexit talks it could accidentally force Britain out of the bloc without an agreement on future relations. Sir Bernards comments came amid threats of food and drug shortages and other trade problems that some claim will occur in a no-deal Brexit because commerce would be so disrupted. Last week the head of the British Sandwich Association was mocked for claiming consumers may have less choice thanks to a lack of key ingredients.  Daily Express

Hague: Its right to focus on France as the biggest national obstacle to a Brexit deal

Grassroots Conservatives continue to rail against Chequers

The last week has seen the most concerted British diplomatic push with our French neighbours in many years. Days after the new Foreign Secretary raced straight to Paris from his trip to China, the Prime Minister cut short her holiday to visit President Macron at his summer retreat. Their movements reveal the conclusion they have reached: France is the biggest national obstacle to a Brexit deal and the key country to unlock a change of attitude in the European Commission. What they will have found is that the long love-hate relationship between the British and the French lives on in ministerial form.  Daily Telegraph

 May insists Britain will leave the EUs single market and customs union, that free movement of European migrants will end, and that the UK will be able to strike its own far-ranging free trade agreements with the US, Australia and other non-EU countries. But the die-hard Eurosceptics say the Chequers plan has effectively gone back on all these promises.  The activists say the wider party membership agree with them. It is difficult to quantify this precisely, but close observers of grassroots Conservative politics say the activists are probably right. A snap survey by the website Conservative Home, taken two days after the 6 July meeting, found that 60% of Tory members questioned were opposed to Chequers.  The activists say theyve been taken for granted by their leaders. Downing Street and CCHQ appear not to have anticipated such an angry response. They seem to have assumed that everybody would row in behind it, Mark Wallace, executive editor of Conservative Home, told BuzzFeed News. They belatedly realised that they had judged that wrong.  BuzzFeed

More Brexit

Government needs to be more muscular in negotiating defence contracts now  Robin Southwell, The Times

Weve gone from respected global player to source of international bemusement  Clare Foges, The Times

Ministers prepare extradition request for Salisbury suspects

Ministers are preparing to submit an extradition request to Moscow for two suspects responsible for the Salisbury nerve agent attack, as the Government vowed to exert international pressure to force Russia to do the right thing. Documents are being prepared to force the would-be assassins to return to the UK to face justice, although the order is not expected to be sent for a number of weeks or months. Last night Government sources pledged to do everything possible to secure a conviction for the Skripal family after Sergei and his daughter Yulia were targeted in a nerve agent attack in March which prompted deep recriminations around the world.  Daily Telegraph

May to visit Edinburgh and sign off 1.2bn city deal

Johnson criticised for dog whistle comments about Muslim women

The Prime Minister is visiting the Scottish capital at the start of the citys annual Fringe festival, and will outline her commitment to Scotlands development as concerns surrounding post-Brexit prosperity mount, Among Mrs Mays key initiatives will be a 1.2billion city deal for Edinburgh and south-east Scotland, which will be officially signed off by the Prime Minister and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon on Tuesday. The initiative will support cutting-edge research at Edinburghs three universities, improve housing and transport links, and help build a new concert hall.  Daily Express

Boris Johnson has been accused of fanning the flames of Islamophobia after saying that Muslim women who wear veils look like bank robbers and letter boxes. Baroness Warsi, the Conservative peer, is among the senior Muslim figures to react with anger to the remarks made by the former foreign secretary, describing them as a dog whistle to those who hate Muslims. A group of Muslim Conservative Party members has also condemned Mr Johnsons comments, as have three of the best known imams in Britain and the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), which has reissued calls for an inquiry into Islamophobia in the Conservative Party.  The Times

He said veils shouldnt be banned  The Sun

Warsi says lack of action by party over his comments shows its business as usual  Guardian

Comment:

Johnsons strong feelings are not surprising  Nesrine Malik, Guardian

Hunt issues statement with EU ministers in support of Iran deal

Truss calls for building on a lot more greenfield land

Britain will do all it can to block Donald Trumps sanctions on Iran, it was announced last night. The UK has joined forces with the EU to take immediate action to preserve peace in the wake of US sanctions, which came into force yesterday after it backed out of the Iran nuclear deal. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt issued a joint statement with EU foreign ministers on their determination to protect European businesses working with Iranian companies. They warned that the deal is a key element of the plan for global nuclear non-proliferation, and is crucial for the security of Europe, the region, and the entire world.  Daily Mail

The Conservatives must build more houses in the countryside and make it easier for people to extend their homes or Jeremy Corbyn would become prime minister, a cabinet minister has warned. Liz Truss, the chief secretary to the Treasury, said that a lot more greenfield land should be built on. Speaking to the Financial Timess politics podcast, she said: I do think we need to open up more land for building, a lot more. There are a lot of nimbys in Britain. Asked whether many of the nimbys were Conservatives, she said: I think it is a dwindling number. People recognise the choice is building on more greenfield sites and making sure there are enough homes or losing the election and ending up with Jeremy Corbyn.  The Times

Otherwise Corbyn will gain power, she says  The Sun

She faces a backlash  Daily Mail

Comment:

Building on green belt would go against Mays promises  Geoffrey Lean, Daily Mail

>Today: ToryDiary: Truss cuts the Gordian Knot on housing

More Conservatives

May to consider new law banning eating dogs  The Sun

Hinds calls for VR in classroom  Daily Mail

Rees-Moggs home vandalised  The Times

>Yesterday: MPsEtc: James Fredrickson selected as Conservative candidate to contest Oxford West and Abingdon

Labour ends Hodge inquiry. She rejects suggestion that shed expressed regret

Labour MPs call for antisemitism definition vote  Daily Telegraph

Watson vows to face down campaign against him  Guardian

Senior member suspended over comment  FT

Secret summit held to plan Corbyn ousting  The Sun

Dame Margaret Hodge accused the Labour Party of lying over its reasons for clearing her after Jeremy Corbyn dropped disciplinary action against the MP.  Last night Jennie Formby, Labours general secretary, wrote to Dame Margaret ending the inquiry into alleged abusive behaviour and informing her that no further action would be taken. However, Dame Margaret rejected claims that emerged shortly afterwards that the action was abandoned because she expressed regret to Nick Brown, the chief whip, for the manner in which she had voiced her views.  The Times

Comment:

Corbynism looks more and more like a cult  Tim Stanley, Daily Telegraph

>Yesterday: Alex King in Comment: Corbyns critics must learn that less is more when using his track record against him

Cooper: The robots are coming! We must prepare

The robots are coming, artificial intelligence is expanding, yet no one is doing enough to make sure workers benefit rather than losing out. According to a new survey, a quarter of the workforce think their job wont be needed in future. Many of us expect the technological revolution to be as disruptive as the industrial revolution. This could bring amazing opportunities and emancipation, but also new forms of exploitation, deeper inequalities, injustices and anger. Trades unions and communities cant just stand by and hope for the best. If we want technological change to benefit everyone rather than widening inequality then we need to start preparing now.  Guardian

News in Brief
Susan Hall is a member of the London Assembly.

During Sadiq Khans Mayoralty, London has seen a significant increase in crime. The problem has become so bad that criminal activity associated with drug dealing has been exported from London to other parts of the UK. He recently claimed, I am doing my bit in London. This is simply not the case and there is much more he can be doing.

His main tactic is to issue press releases and back any idea that will get him a headline. For example, the Public Health Approach, often referred to as the Glasgow Model, has become a popular phrase among decision makers and politicians. But what is the Glasgow Model, and how can it help in London?

The Glasgow Model works via an operating central coordinating body known as the Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) that manages all aspects of planning around violent crime, including the targeting of offenders, prevention, and giving people a path out of crime. The VRU links the police, the local authority, the NHS, and other partners to deliver a uniformed approach to addressing the problems from violent crime.

The problem with replicating this model in London is that London is not Glasgow. London has a population of 8.63m, over 14 times that of Glasgow, which has a population of 0.6m. Glasgow has one local authority, whereas London has 32 boroughs and the Greater London Authority. Glasgow has one Accident and Emergency Hospital, London has 30. In London, there is also a close working relationship between three police forces: BTP, City of London and the Met. Having just one representative from all of these London organisations would mean creating a decision-making body consisting of 66; with charities and other partners, this could easily grow to over 100 representatives.

There are lessons that can be learned from Glasgow. We need good partnership working to tackle violent crime, but this should be coordinated from a borough level where there is a strong local connection and those involved know the area. The main issue is police numbers. Since becoming Mayor, Sadiq Khan has chosen to protect central police officer roles at the expense of local policing. With the new Borough Command Unit model, the Mayor is implementing a reduction of over 2,000 police officers from the boroughs.

The Chief Constable of Durham, Mike Barton, whose force is solving the most crime, attributes this to boots on the ground.

The Mayor claims he has had to do this because he needs more money from central government, but it is easy to find money that he will spend elsewhere rather on police officers. He has increased the Mayors Office for Policing and Crime budget at City Hall by 10.5m. Since 2015/16, he overpaid for the recent purchase of the Empress State Building by 30m, and this year he spent 10m on training courses for staff to determine the colour of their personality.

If the Mayor is serious about tackling the surge in violent crime in London, he needs to move away from governing by press release and supporting initiatives that will simply get him a headline. He needs to let boroughs create their own plans to tackle the violence, and he should reverse his cuts to local police officers numbers. If he put police officers back on the streets, crime will start to fall.
Daniel Hamilton: Ten years on from Putins invasion of Georgia, the West must learn the lesson of its failure

Daniel Hamilton was a Conservative candidate at the 2017 election and is Managing Director of a business consulting firm.

Ten years ago this month, Russia launched its ground invasion of Georgia.

In the nine days leading up to 16th August 2008, close to 230,000 people were displaced from their homes. Few of them have ever been able to return.

The conflict also resulted in a decision by the Russian Federation to extend formal diplomatic relations with the leaderships of the separatist movements in South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Beyond Russia, recognition of the two entities as supposedly independent states remains limited to the likes of Nicolas Maduros Venezuela and Bashar al-Assads junta in Syria.

Indeed, the reality for Abkhazia and South Ossetia is that they have been de facto annexed by the Russian Federation whose military has absorbed the separatist forces into its ranks and operates military bases on occupied Georgian territory, provides Russian citizenship to its residents, and funds the near-entirety of their state budgets.

The Russian Federations actions towards Georgia a decade ago ought to have served as a wake-up call to the international community as to the policy the Putin administration would adopt across the wider region  instead, they went unheeded. The result is plain to see: todays crisis in Ukraine.

Delivering his final remarks to the UN General Assembly as President of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili spoke of the way in which the family of free and democratic nations are facing constant pressures from a Russia that, from the days of its empire in the 1700s and 1800s to the horrors of the Soviet Union, has rejected the notion of borders but instead sees only margins.

The reality of Moscows focus on exercising control over these margins can be seen in the practical consequences on the ground today in Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova and Central Asia, where democratic advancements and integration with the west are constrained by a cocktail of military occupations, cyber warfare and attempts to ferment unrest among ethnic minority communities.

In Ukraine, the popular uprising against the previous governments decision to pursue closer political and economic ties with Russia  a decision that led to the removal of the Yanukovych administration, fully in line with the countrys constitution  has been met with an unacceptable reaction from Moscow. Just as in the case of Georgias occupied regions, Russias annexation of Crimea and endorsement of Moscow-backed separatist administrations in Donetsk and Luhansk has effectively taken the country out of contention for NATO membership for the foreseeable future.

The situation is identical in Moldova, where the ongoing presence of the Russian army in the province of Transnistria along the countrys eastern flank with Ukraine has bolstered separatist forces and retarded the countrys ability to move beyond its Soviet past. Baseless misinformation campaigns, led and funded by Russian interests, have seeded fears in the minds of Russian speakers and the minority Gagauz community about their rights in a majority ethnic-Romanian state.

Mindful of this paralysis, it is critical that western powers remember the critical lesson of Georgias 2008 invasion: that a failure to meet Russias aggression with a practical and concerted response will only embolden Moscow further.

Since 2008, the west has been strong in its promises to Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine  from the expansion of visa-free travel to the realisation of comprehensive free trade deals to bolstering military alignment with a view to ultimate NATO membership  and on a less sure footing when it actually comes to delivering practical results.

The EUs Association Agreements and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas  which the UK should seek to replicate post-Brexit  have had a positive impact on trade in the three states but a limited impact upon state revenues or reducing unemployment. Indeed, much of the economic data the agreements are based on dates back to 2007 and fails to take into account new technological developments from which both sides can benefit.

On a security level, NATO continues to both send troops and equipment to Georgia and Ukraine, as well as receiving troops from the two states into its mission in Afghanistan, yet Russian military occupations of, and further encroachments into, their territory remain a daily threat.

In short, the biggest threat to the wests goal of ensuring the economic prosperity and security of former Soviet states may well be its own rhetoric. It has overpromised and under-delivered.

Against the backdrop of a failure to deliver upon its promises to the three at-risk states, there is a clear opportunity for Russia to reassert economic and political dominance through its Eurasian Economic Union; a closed-shop customs union with a clear interest in integrating with Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, to the detriment of western interests.

The weak economic situation in each country poses many opportunities for pro-Moscow parties to seek to reverse hard-won gains. For a growing portion of Ukrainian, Georgian and Moldovan society, the attractions of the Eurasian Union are clear, if short-sighted  cheap Russian gas supplies, protectionist agricultural policies that drive up rural incomes, and subsidies for failing industries.

The answer to this is to intensify political, economic and military support to former Soviet states, with a focus on security mutual economic gains  from joint natural resources, logistics and agricultural cooperation projects, to the implementation of a solid timetable for NATO accession.

This wont be easy. Regrettably, scepticism towards the utility of NATO and the value of integrating Eastern European states into western institutions has gained traction in recent years  seemingly driven by concerns at alienating Russia.

The same such concerns were, to a lesser extent, expressed in relation to the accession of the former Soviet states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania to NATO and EU structures in 2004 yet were clearly misplaced.

Estonia has long met its two per cent GDP contribution to defence, with Latvia and Lithuania on track to do so next year. Similarly, per capita earnings in the three states almost doubled in the past fifteen years; a factor which has seen trade with western states soar and rendered their societies and governments less susceptible to Russian economic threats.

As Britain prepares to leave the EU, our focus on building stronger bilateral relationship with the east will take on an important new dimension.

Our history of proud internationalism, thirst for new trading relationships and passionate defence of sovereignty must lead us to champion Georgia, Moldova and Ukraines inviolable path towards the west.
Henry Newman is Director of Open Europe.

By April of next year, the United Kingdom will have left the European Union. Even some of those calling for a second referendum  or what is disingenuously termed a peoples vote (as if June 2016 wasnt just that)  admit in private that they have little hope of actually stopping Brexit. And with three crucial bills now on the statute book and both main parties opposed to any further referendum on the deal, a serious reversal seems pretty far-fetched. The open question is not whether the UK leaves the EU but how it does so.

My view remains that its still most likely that both sides reach agreement on withdrawal terms before the end of Article 50. Thats obviously the preferred outcome of both the UK Government and the EU. And, as Michel Barnier has made clear, the withdrawal is already 80 per centt locked down  with sections on citizens rights and the UKs financial contribution largely settled. The outstanding issue is really the Irish border issue, which as I explained previously could still derail an orderly exit.

But although its likely, its not certain that an agreement will be reached. The EUs intransigence over the Irish backstop, which is the insurance policy intended to keep the border open, may mean that both sides cant sign things off. Political divisions in the UK, which have especially come to the fore since Chequers and the subsequent ministerial resignations, underscore the Governments weak support base in the Commons, raising the possibility of a total deadlock. And under the terms of Article 50 the UK will be out the EU by April, unless both sides agree to extend the negotiations.

Octobers European Coucil in Brussels has long been expected to be a crucial point for the negotiations, but the UK is also seeking to use the September informal Coucil meeting held in Salzburg, under the Austrian rotating presidency, to make progress. The Prime Minister remains determined to engage EU leaders personally in the Brexit talks, hopeful that they will intervene to push a deal over the line.

So far the leaders of most EU countries have largely been happy to leave things to the Commission. This is partly because the main issues under discussion so far are ones on which the 27 agree most clearly. As the Polish Foreign Minister told me, every EU member believes the UK should pay as much money as possible for as long as possible. Equally, theres little division over agreeing the maximum possible protections for the rights of EU citizens in the UK.

Agreeing the terms of the future relationship will be harder. Thats not to say we are certain to see a real breakdown in the EU27s unified position. But there will be a wider range of views over the right balance of obligations and access to allow the UK. We have already seen in recent weeks significant interventions criticising the EUs position on Brexit from the interior ministers of both Germany and Italy. When it comes to discussing whether the UK could participate partially or fully in the Single Market for goods, without signing up to free movement, there may be a range of different views.

Meanwhile, the Parliamentary position in the UK is very divided. As some have observed, theres clearly a majority for Brexit overall in the Commons, but its not clear that theres a majority for any particular Brexit. One group of MPs openly advocate a No Deal exit, while the Opposition stick to the preposterous position that they will vote down the withdrawal agreement if Brexit doesnt deliver the exact same benefits of membership. [Spoiler alert: this is impossible]. Stuck in the middle is the Government and its Chequers plan. Some MPs would happily vote for a permanent arrangement like Norways, others will never vote for a deal which didnt guarantee the UK total control over migration policy.

Parliament isnt being asked to vote now on Brexit though. If it was, there would certainly not be a majority to walk away from the negotiations. Things might, however, look different in a few months time. MPs may feel that the Government has tried to offer reasonable comprises to the EU, including at Chequers, but they have been rejected in favour of unreasonable demands. The Commons was unanimous in rejecting a customs border in the Irish Sea  between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Yet that is precisely what the EU is demanding. There may not be a way through.

If theres no real breakthrough by the late autumn the chances of No Deal will be very high. But even if theres no agreement on the withdrawal treaty, the UK and EU could tie off some discreet deals to avoid the maximum disruption of an acrimonious exit. For example, both sides would have a big incentive to agree a new framework for aviation, whatever happens.

So although the new Foreign Secretary is right to warn that a total collapse in negotiations would have hugely damaging effects including for diplomatic, security and defence cooperation across the continent, it remains less likely a prospect than Liam Fox suggested in Sundays intervention, when the Trade Secretary put the chance of No Deal at 60 per cent. Still, Whitehall must be prepared for every eventuality  including both a negotiated No Deal and an acrimonious one. Open Europe will soon be producing key recommendations for the Government to enact in the event of such a breakdown in negotiations

Meanwhile, its not certain we will know the shape of our future relationship with the EU by the time Parliament is asked to vote on Brexit. EU diplomats tell me that in her private meetings the Prime Minister has been pushing European leaders to agree the greatest possible detail on our future relations with the EU, before the end of Article 50. Her view is that MPs will be reluctant to sign off on any payment to the EU without a clear idea of what theyre getting in return. Perhaps.

Its also possible that both sides prefer to fudge things to get the deal over the line. That will mean that what the Prime Minister used to call the implementation period is when almost all the detail of our future relations gets locked down, assuming agreement can be found on that by 2021. So overall although its almost certain that the UK will leave the UK next spring, the range of possible outcomes for Brexit remains quite wide open.
James Frayne is Director of communications agency Public First and author of Meet the People, a guide to moving public opinion.

Ive written before about the polling on a second referendum and the immediate impact such a vote might have on British politics. But what would the longer-term impact of such a vote be? Its extremely difficult to predict the future, but theres enough evidence from recent times to offer some tentative suggestions.

1. A total collapse of trust in the political class. Most obviously, at least those that voted Leave, as well as a sizeable chunk of Remain voters, would conclude that the political class had lied to them on a matter of fundamental importance. You lied would be the new Leave campaigns top message and would, at the very least, make the campaign extremely competitive. This sense of betrayal would continue for many, many years to come. Remain politicians and commentators seem to have ludicrously convinced themselves that the real anger lies on their side. Theyve got no idea.

2. A possible rise in extremist parties. The public dont closely affiliate with party brands and vote primarily on their perceptions of the parties stances on key issues that matter to them. When a significant number of voters chose the BNP in the late 2000s, it wasnt that they were attracted by the BNPs brand of toxic politics but because they believed they were the only party interested in cutting immigration. They quickly turned to UKIP in the early 2010s. If a mainstream party deliberately courted the disgruntled Leave vote, its reasonable to assume theyd stay in the mainstream, despite their anger. If the mainstream parties all tried to move on from a second referendum these votes would go wherever they were apparently most wanted. The result might be very ugly.

3. Change campaigns would be impossible. From the North East referendum to the AV referendum, politicians have found it increasingly difficult to sell change to the electorate. In both referendums, victorious campaigns tapped into voter hostility towards Westminster and politicians found they couldnt persuade them to endorse change. After a second referendum, the anti-Westminster sentiment across much of the country would kill any prospect for major social change going forward.

4. Devolution might be an easier sell. The only significant change that might be more sell-able post a second referendum might be much greater devolution. In the same way American congressional campaigns thrive by their anti-Washington sentiment, so we might see the same sentiment grow across England. Take back control from Westminster might be a much more compelling proposition even than it is now.

5. Turnout would likely plummet in national elections. While its possible to imagine that local political engagement might rise, its difficult to imagine that the same would be true of national votes. Indeed, its hard to see anything other than a major reduction in turnout at General Elections in years ahead. Whats the point in voting?, would be the general consensus of those that felt betrayed.

6. Libertarianism might grow as a force. The libertarian British right  now almost entirely centred around think tanks and campaigns  thrives when anger at Government is at its highest. Their message that politicians cant be trusted to deliver is always strong but particularly when Westminster is perceived to have collectively failed. The TaxPayers Alliance grew rapidly in the late 2000s after the scandal of MPs expenses. A second referendum would provide the perfect springboard for their message.
Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif slammed the US move to impose sanctions on Irans civil aviation industry as a sign of Washingtons push to create chaos in Iran, Eurasia Review reported.

In a meeting with a group of Iranian journalist in Tehran on Monday, Zarif said the US must explain why its first anti-Iran sanctions have targeted the countrys passenger planes.

Washingtons main purpose is to incite chaos inside Iran, the minister deplored, describing it a result of the US governments isolation in the international community.

He further pointed to the support that more than 180 countries have voiced for the Iran nuclear deal, saying only the US and a few allies are against the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

The US, Israel and Saudi Arabia have been isolated in the international community and have spent millions of dollars to misrepresent the reality through media propaganda, Zarif added.
Whats included in the fares consumers pay for airline tickets has become a can of worms over the last few years. What presents itself to the consumer as a $100 fare can easily wind up as $140 by the time "additional fees and taxes" are tagged on.

Then, if you want a certain seat, to carry on a bag, or board the plane in the first group, you could easily run that $140 charge up to $200 or more.

Theres no doubt that the ecosystem of running an airline is complex. Theres fuel, regulations, maintenance, ticketing, and layers upon layers of people trying to make customers happy and the planes get from point A to point B.

Theres also picking out the routes that will create the most return on investment (ROI) and making sure the airline has the deal everyone wants.

What airline has the most add-on fees?

In its annual ancillary revenue rankings, the IdeaWorksCompany found the top 10 most expensive carriers based on average fees charged per passenger were as follows:

Spirit: $51 per passenger WOW Air: $49 per passenger Allegiant: $49 per passenger Frontier: $48 per passenger Jet2.com: $43 per passenger Qantas Airways: $43 per passenger United: $39 per passenger AirAsia X: $33 per passenger HK Express: $33 per passenger Wizz Air: $31 per passenger

Scanning that list, you probably noticed that most of those airlines are small, regional, no-frills types.

"Consumers in the US enjoy far lower fares courtesy of the presence of Spirit, Frontier, and Sun Country, Jay Sorensen, President of Product, Partnership and Marketing Practice for IdeaWorksCompany told ConsumerAffairs.

"These low fare airlines rely upon two revenue streams - fares and ancillary revenue. Now to be certain, the latter must be provided using transparent and fair methods. There have certainly been abuses in terms of transparency and fairness by LCCs. But I confess, if you complete the booking process at the Spirit Airlines website and are surprised by bag fees being charged at the airport for large carry-ons well, you are intellectually challenged."

So, ancillary revenue is a good thing?

IdeaWorksCompany further defines ancillary revenue using these categories: 1) a la carte features, 2) commission-based products, 3) frequent flyer activities, 4) miscellaneous sources such as advertising, and 5) the a la carte components associated with a fare or product bundle.

If you take a close look at IdeaWorks report, your eyes might widen when you see that United, Delta, and American all took in more than $5 billion in ancillary revenue last year in the way of a la carte features, commission-based products, and frequent flyer activities.

But, in the long run, that extra revenue stream can be a good thing for the customer.

If an airline can keep its fares competitive and pick up enough money from its side hustles -- baggage fees, seat assignments, and the like -- then its on the consumer to decide how much the perks are worth and if they really need that extra four inches of legroom.

Do the homework

When looking for a fare, think about what you want versus what you need. Is it a free checked bag? If so, then Southwest may be your answer. Need a seat toward the front of the plane? United has a new plan you may want to try out.

"If you can survive with a smaller bag as a carry-on -- you can save that expense," said Sorensen. "Ditto for seat assignments. Consumers are usually best served by applying for the carrier's co-branded credit card and relying on the customary offer of a free checked bag."

Is the government on the consumers side?

Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) called on Congress in 2017 to pass legislation to ground exorbitant airline fees in light of a newly-released Government Accountability Office (GAO) report confirming that many airlines do not consider the costs of the services provided when pricing their airline fees.

"This report confirms what countless passengers across the country already know to be true  that airlines are nickel and diming captive passengers to line their pockets, not to cover the costs of the services provided," said Senator Markey.

"GAOs findings show that many airlines are actually emboldened to increase their fees to match their competitors and actively seek to deceive passengers by offering artificially low fares and then charging exorbitant fees on the back end. Its time to put a stop to this fee gouging and restore sanity to the skies. Its time to pass the FAIR Fees Act."

Unless Markey and Blumenthal can get their bill all the way through and signed, theres not much hope. While the Department of Transportation and Federal Aviation Administration take their jobs seriously in protecting the safety of fliers, those agencies have decided to stay out of the ring when it comes to things like ticket prices and baggage fees.

Before the Obama administration left office, it proposed a requirement that airlines list their baggage fees at the start of the booking process, a measure intended to make shopping for tickets easier and more transparent for consumers. However, when Donald Trump moved into the Oval Office, he scrapped that proposal.
Employers are being forced to pay more to fill jobs

There was a lot of job-switching in recent months as the coronavirus pandemic prompted millions of people to move and make major life changes. It turns out many people who changed jobs earned more money.

A report from ADP shows that overall wage growth in the third quarter of this year rose 3.3%. But people who changed jobs during that period saw their wages grow twice as fast, at 6.6%.

Nela Richardson, chief economist at ADP, says wage growth has begun to match pre-pande...
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Dear Editor and those considering reading this letter,

The reason for my letter today is because I received Mr. Guy Lauzons recent campaign newsletter.

While I do not prescribe specifically to any political party at this point, I keep myself well-informed in terms of what each party ideology actually is, what the party actually says they will do, what the party does, and who they choose to place in leadership positions. I can only express my disappointment that Doug Ford was elected as party leader for the PC provincial government for the simple reason that his family history in politics is a colourful one  as Toronto City Mayor Rob Ford was videotaped literally smoking crack, Doug Ford supported and tried to undermine then current Chief of Police Bill Blair and the law. If I take into consideration the rash and seemingly illogical decisions he has made on many important subjects, not to mention getting easily investigable facts wrong, I feel alongside my millennial counterparts, that he does not reflect the type of metered, careful leadership that our province requires. Despite my belief that the individual is a poor choice, I do not disagree with the notions of the Progressive Conservative government in terms of maintaining economic order. Although it is counterintuitive for Ford et. al. to be fighting to make hydro a public good once again, when the party ideology clearly stands for private goods and services in a competitive market. It seems to me that hydro is a necessity, in Canada we always have access to electricity with the exception of major weather events, and that it comes at a decent price if you are conservative with your usage.

To return back to the topic of the recent newsletter; I am perturbed with the shamefully obvious rhetoric abused throughout. It would be thoroughly appreciated by myself, as well as many others I am sure, if the type of name calling and gossipy rhetoric used to slander other parties was kept to a tasteful minimum. While I appreciate receiving these newsletters, and would like to hear what Mr. Lauzon is actually doing, I am uninterested in becoming infuriated with the lack of responsibility taken for the actions of all parties within the government. To assume that the PC party in the same place would not have incurred debt, is to assume that one is God. That is to say, debt is a common factor in every election, for every leading party, and in some ways can be used to alleviate future debts. Let me give you an example, when you go to the grocery store and need one onion that costs $2, but you can get a bag of 5 onions for $4, would you get into $2 worth of debt by using your credit card instead of debit so that you would save $8 in the future? Any logical person would come to the conclusion that spending the extra $2 is a reasonable expense that will save you money in the long run, seeing as onions are relatively often used (by my use, anyway). Better yet, consider the debt students get into so that they can potentially get a job that would pay them better, so that they can have a good standard of living, and by extension pay more tax. So, tell me how investing in social services like OSAP and childcare, and providing free medication to the public so that they can be in a better position to pay more taxes in the future is a bad thing. I fail to see under a reasonable government, how that is justification for blame and finger pointing.

May I also add that contrary to popular belief, I rather enjoy paying my taxes. I like having social services available to those who need it, I like having police, paramedics, doctors and nurses who are able to live good home lives, I like to drive down my gravel road knowing that while Id prefer a paved road other people who live

on busier streets get to enjoy that instead, and I believe that incomes should inflate alongside the cost of goods. With reason and an understanding of a good social structure, one can come to the conclusion that taxes are, in fact, a good thing. One need not even look, although it is helpful to, at examples of countries who do not pay much tax and in turn dont have the social benefit of helping and being helped by each other. On the contrary there are plenty of examples of countries that pay more tax than we do, but give back to the people in terms of social benefits  such as free education, low-price childcare so that women can monetarily justify working, free healthcare, government mandated vacation times, etcetera. In countries who have these social benefits there is increased reported happiness and mental, physical and social well-being. These are all good things, this leads to a population that can easily carve a path for themselves which reflects personal abilities and interests as opposed to making career decisions based on potential standard of living improvement. Now, Canada is not far from being one of these socially progressive countries, and I fear that too often a rhetoric of dislike towards taxes is brandished about without proper consideration of the great benefits.

As for the use of a quotation by Justin Trudeau, rising gas prices are exactly what he wants, Im certain I dont need to explain to the damage that taking quotations out of context will do, as it is clearly intended damage. Yes, rising gas prices means that there is a greater demand than is available  something a competitive market thrives on, I will add  but considering global warming and investments in bio-fuels, as well as the rise in availability of electric cars, is it not a good thing to discourage a necessarily bad thing? Sure, where individuals are dependent on gas to get to work, it is difficult, but were talking about putting pressure on big companies and individuals to do the right thing and to evolve beyond the pointlessly environmentally bad implications of gas. In Vietnam they have figured out how to use pig feces to create a bio-fuel that reduces the use of coal or wood burning in homes, in turn decreasing CO2 emissions and by extension increasing health and wellness. They do this in their backyards. Im sure in rural Canada, with the plethora of meat production, there is plenty of feces to use in the same manner. Is that not an investment in the future that perhaps should be encouraged? If Vietnam can figure that out, why cant a country as great as ours, nay a province as great as ours, do so as well?

Change cannot happen over night, it must be gradual, it must be planned and it must be encouraged. Rather than energy spent pointing fingers at each other, Id like to see my municipal, provincial and federal governments come together to use their political ideologies and individual abilities such that good, progressive, and productive decisions are made in such a way that they reflect democracy.

To conclude, I am very grateful, Mr. Lauzon, for the hard work you do and the personal sacrifices you make every day to lead our district and to care for the individuals within it.

Thank you all for taking the time to read this letter.

Sincerely,

Eden Lewis
CORNWALL, Ontario  Shannon Champagne, owner of A Lil Pole Fitness in Cornwall, has been asked to be a Master Trainer by the Canadian Pole Fitness Association.

Champagne will officially become one of four Master Trainers in Canada, and the only bilingual Master Trainer, after receiving official certification in Toronto this month.

It is such an honour to be asked, said Champagne, who has been involved in pole fitness for over 11 years. It is a lot of responsibility, but responsibility that I take very seriously. It is an honour because there are so many talented individuals out there and I was hand picked by the association itself, so that makes it extra special to me.

With the prestigious title of Master Trainer, Champagne will be required to travel throughout Ontario and Quebec to coach individuals.

Champagne, who coaches multiple classes a week at her studio on Second St. West, is also a mother of two to 4-year-old Titan and 7-month-old Atlas. She feels it is important to show her children that pole fitness is a demanding and character building sport, and that it should not be associated with negative stereotypes.

I know that I am being a positive and healthy role model to them, said Champagne. As well as surrounding them with positive people and increasing their own self esteem.

After years of hard work and dedication, Champagne said the driving factor to her success is loving what she does.

I have the best members and best coworkers/coaches that anyone could ask for, she said. I love walking into the studio and knowing I get to see all of our amazing members and coaches, and that we are going to have fun while working hard.!

A Lil Pole Fitness offers various types of classes, including aerial hoop lessons. Some pole classes focus on ab strength while others focus on glutes. Curvy pole classes are offered bi weekly, and every pole class welcomes participants of ranging skill levels.

Champagne enjoys seeing her work build the self-esteem, acceptance and encouragement of her clientele and staff.

Not only are we increasing strength and flexibility but I also get to see members feeling confident and increase their self esteem, said Champagne.

To find out more about A Lil Pole Fitness, visit www.alilpolefitness.com or A Lil Pole Fitness on Facebook.
Ruckus Networks' former technology visionary and president Dan Rabinovitsj has landed a vice president role at Facebook.

Rabinovitsj posted about his new vice president position at the social media giant on his LinkedIn page Tuesday. "Let's get the next billion people on the internet!" he wrote.

Rabinovitsj was previously president of Ruckus Networks after the departure of longtime CEO Selina Lo in 2017. Following the acquisition of Ruckus by Arris International last year, he became president of Arris Enterprise Networks, a division inside Arris.

[Related: Ruckus President Rabinovitsj On The Company's Channel Renaissance And How Partners Can Make Bank While Taking On Cisco Meraki]

Rabinovitsj did not respond to a request for comment by press time. Facebook did not provide details on Rabinovitsj's responsibilities by press time.

Ruckus partners described Rabinovitsj as the technology visionary for the wireless and wired networking specialist while in his role as chief operating officer from 2014 to 2017, before taking the president position.

In June, Ruckus Networks said Rabinovitsj would be leaving in July to be replaced by the company's chief commercial officer, Ian Whiting. In a blog post, Whiting described Rabinovitsj as "one of the smartest guys I have ever worked with."

"Under Dan's leadership, Ruckus has emerged stronger and better equipped to compete in the marketplace," said Whiting in a blog post in June. "[He is] an extremely passionate, humorous and caring person who has worked tirelessly to ensure all of our partners, customers and employees were supported through a very turbulent period last year."

Ruckus' path to Arris was a long and difficult process that hit several major hurdles along the way, including a long delay for review by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States. In 2016, Ruckus was acquired by Brocade Communications for $1.2 billion. Brocade-Ruckus was then acquired by Broadcom for $5.5 billion last year. Broadcom sold Ruckus and its IP networking business to Arris International for $800 million, a deal that closed Dec. 1.
Google added another arrow to the quiver of solution providers deploying next-gen services Monday by introducing Nvidia P4 graphics processors to its cloud.

The P4 GPUs are good fits to accelerate inference engines executing pre-trained machine learning algorithms, as well as deliver remote application and desktop functionality to workers in the field.

For those two workloads, the P4s "provide a good balance of price/performance," Ari Liberman, a Google Cloud product manager, said in a blog post.

[Related: Google Merges AI, IoT With New Chips And Machine Learning Platform]

Released in beta in North America and Europe, Nvidia P4s can be attached to any Google Cloud machine types to bulk up their base computational resources.

Coupled with Nvidia's GRID technology, the P4s will make Google Cloud a better host for virtual workstations by powering faster graphics delivery to remote devices.

Machine learning inferencemaking predictions based on real-time data rather than the more compute-intensive process of training new algorithmsis useful for tasks such as visual search, interactive speech and video recommendations, Liberman said.

Those capabilities are increasingly sought by enterprises, creating opportunities for Google partners focused on deploying intelligent solutions that solve unique business challenges.

Kartick Sekar, Google Cloud solutions architect at Pythian, an Ottawa, Canada-based partner specializing in AI and analytics, told CRN there are several emerging use cases where the new GPUs will prove beneficial.

In the realm of visual analytics, the P4s will "significantly reduce time for image processing and allow for more-complex scenarios of image identification, tagging and image-based learning" by scouring online image sources like Pintrest and Google Image Search, Sekar said.

Speech services like speech recognition, detection, transcription, translation and sentiment analysis are also greatly in demand.

Beyond speech and video, partners can apply inference analysis to conducting fraud detection for the financial services industry, object recognition for virtual and augmented reality, location analytics, even guiding drones based on weather data.

There's also a lot of potential, though it's still not a common use case, to incorporate artificial intelligence to speed the analysis of data coming from Internet of Things sensors deployed in the field, Sekar said.

Ekaba Bisong, a data scientist at Pythian, said features like the integration of P4 GPUs underscores why the solution provider is "keenly aligning" with Google Cloud.

Google is empowering data-focused partners with the combination of powerful infrastructure and services for model development and deployment that enables delivery of "high performance and efficient AI and advanced analytics solutions across diverse market verticals," Bisong told CRN.
Information technology leaders say cloud strategic service provider GreenPages Technology Solutions, No. 203 on the CRN SP500, is providing much needed muscle for them to seize the opportunities arising from the digital transformation revolution.

Dave Widener, director of information technology for Dead River Co., a New England energy, heating oil and propane gas provider, said GreenPages has helped provide the "thought leadership" around a massive shift to digitally transform the energy company. "The new things we are doing with GreenPages are the most exciting," he said. "We are transforming our business with them."

[Related: The Top 25 Disrupters Of 2018]

Widener was one of three top IT executives featured Monday at GreenPages Technology Solutions Cloudscape 2018 summit in a keynote panel session on digital transformation and cloud-first strategies moderated by Simon Johnson, senior vice president of client services for GreenPages.

The 110-year-old South Portland, Maine-headquartered Dead River, with 200,000 customers across northern New England, is getting ready to launch a new digital business model at the end of the third quarter, said Widener.

"We are doing it because of the digital opportunity," he said. "We even see a day where IoT (internet of things) and connected home becomes part of who we are. Can you imagine a future state where we have more insight into your furnace or boiler and we can understand when it is performing sub-optimally? We will be able to understand what that means to your monthly bill through big data and analytics. Doesn't that sound more rich and lively and more sticky than being just another commodity energy player? We think so."

Dead River is leveraging GreenPages' managed services offerings to "unleash trapped value" within the IT budget with an aim toward reinvesting the savings in digital transformation,said Widener. "We are showing our owners and shareholders that we respect their investment in our company," he said.

The "consumer mandate for convenience" is at the heart of the digital transformation initiative by the energy company. "We have to meet those consumer demands," said Widener. "There is an evolution from a product-based economy to a service-based economy."

Widener said key to Dead River's digital transformation is a business outcome-focused strategy delivered to the company's CEO. "This was so compelling because it addressed who we were as a company, the clear threats we all saw that were keeping us up at night and the opportunity to move forward and become more of connected digital partner (with our customers). It was hard to refute given that it was written from the perspective of the business."

Dead River's CEO and board of directors signed off on the digital transformation strategy a year ago, said Widener. "Our executive team and board of directors realized that the call to action was now and it is because of the competitive threats entering our marketplace," he said. "We see the best way to compete as a commodity fuel provider is through digital. That is our transformative avenue. When you say IT is running the business - that is true. We were front and center in this."

Eric Drobisewski, senior architect for Liberty Mutual, said GreenPages has helped the Fortune 100 insurance giant accelerate its digital transformation efforts.

"GreenPages helped drive some consensus and make those opinions actionable so we could move forward more quickly," said Drobisweski, who is helping lead a charge that will result in 75 percent of the Liberty Mutual IT staff writing software code. "That helped us get down the path and achieve results more quickly than maybe we could have otherwise."

Liberty Mutual moved 14 percent of its operations to public cloud over the last year with an aim toward delivering 60 percent of workloads to the cloud by 2020, said Drobisewski.

GreenPages has helped Liberty Mutual make process changes with a "cloud native" approach that is driving development team innovation, said Drobisewski. "We are not bringing the traditional process forward," he said. "That impedes development teams. We need the autonomy for them to innovate and move freely around open frameworks. That is a big piece of the technology footprint we have today. A lot of what we are doing is based off of more open source stacks than ever before. That is where the innovation is happening."

Drobisewski said the key to success is continually becoming ever more agile in a fast-moving market. "When we talk about operating in agile way, that is a never ending cycle for us," he said. "The day that you think you are done is the day that you actually lose with this. We need to keep innovating and recreating the way that we are working."

Kevin Hall, head of technology for ButcherBox.com, a born-in-the-cloud subscription service for 100 percent pasture-raised grass-fed meat, said GreenPages' ability to move quickly is a big differentiator in driving digital transformation.

In fact, GreenPages helped ButcherBox -- which certifies that its products are certified humane and free from added antibiotics and hormones -- move quickly to a Microsoft Azure cloud analytics platform that is helping the company deal with astronomical growth, said Hall, a former CIO for GreenPages.

GreenPages was able to provide ButcherBox strategic technology consulting hand in hand with Microsoft on Azure data analytics, said Hall. "GreenPages is agile and can move quick," he said.

Before the Azure analytics implementation, ButcherBox was pulling data off a LAMP stack website into Excel, GoogleDocs or Tableau, said Hall. Hall is leading a charge to bring more cloud scale to ButcherBox.com which has grown to a $150 million company with 100,000 members that is doubling every six months.

The company's LAMP stack platform was built originally to handle 10,000 customers, said Hall. "As we look out to being a $1 billion company in our fifth year of business which is our internal goal now we have to start talking about scale," he said.

Key to the company's success is its born-in-the-cloud heritage, which is disrupting traditional meat providers, said Hall. "Everyone is in IT in some ways (at ButcherBox.com) and everyone is very, very engaged," said Hall. "It is a very smart, very young organization."

Hall  who was previously CIO of ProFlowers,com, a direct mail flower business, is also driving the technology strategy at ButcherBox.com's sister company SmoothieBox.com- a subscription-based smoothie company free from additives and added sugar.

SmoothieBox.com was launched just last week on an AWS platform, said Hall. "We went from a decision to use AWS to launching AWS for SmoothieBox in four months," he said.

GreenPages' Johnson said GreenPages' move from a product to a digital transformation services organization is paying off with big benefits to customers. In fact, Johnson said, customers that engage in digital transformation are delivering applications at a 100 percent faster rate and capturing additional market share with revenue increases of 25-40 percent.

"Digital transformation is going very fast," he said. "It is both exciting and a huge challenge to keep up with it. Technologies pivot and come and go on a monthly basis."

GreenPages CEO Ron Dupler, for his part, said what is essentially at stake for customers in the digital transformation era is their very survival. "The speed of the technology changes means that there is going to be winners and losers in every industry," he said. "The infrastructure governance model that has been built up over the years can't move at the speed needed at the software layer. What we are doing is fixing that for our clients."
Intel has hired yet another former AMD executive, this time to boost the company's data-centric software ecosystem.

Mark Hirsch, who departed AMD in July, will start at Intel as vice president of competitive software programs on Aug. 13, according to a source with direct knowledge of the hire. Hirsch was previously corporate vice president of systems engineering for AMD's Radeon graphics technology group.

Intel and Hirsch did not respond to requests for comment by Tuesday afternoon.

Intel has made several recent hires of former AMD talent. This includes Raja Koduri, AMD's former chief GPU architect who is now leading Intel's Core and Visual Computing Group; former AMD graphics marketing head Chris Hook; AMD chip design veteran Jim Keller; and former AMD senior director of platform engineering Joseph Facca.

Some of these hires are focused on or contributing to Intel's renewed effort to build a line of dedicated graphics processors, or GPUs. Some have been given far broader edicts, however, with Koduri leading development of the company's CPU and GPU technology and Keller leading Intel's silicon engineering team.

In Hirsch's case, the company is tasking him with leading the design and optimization of Intel's data-centric software ecosystem, which includes developer tools, libraries and APIs, according to the source.

Hirsch worked for AMD a little over a year, according to his LinkedIn profile. While there, he led the company's virtualization and machine learning customer engineering team for large data center customers, OEMs and systems integrators. He also created AMD's GPU data center and systems validation process.

Prior to joining AMD in 2017, Hirsch spent 14 years at Inventec, a Taiwanese maker of notebook computers, servers and mobile devices.

News of Hirsch's appointment comes one day before Intel hosts its Data-Centric Innovation Summit at its Santa Clara, Calif., headquarters.

Intel's decision to make its data-centric businesses the company's main focus has been galvanized by the fast growth of those segments, which includes the Data Center Group and Internet of Things Group, among others. In the company's second quarter this year, the Data Center Group revenue grew 27 percent year-over-year to $5.5 billion while other units also saw double-digit growth.

However, the company is expecting tougher competition from AMD, which has found traction with its one-year-old line of EPYC server processors. Before he resigned in late June, former Intel CEO Brian Krzanich reportedly told an analyst that Intel was expected to lose server market share to AMD in the second half of this year. Intel later said that while the company expects a "more competitive environment," it's in a "great position to compete."
The runaway growth from TUI Cruises targeting German cruise passengers will have an unintended effect for the cruise line: it will become the biggest operator in Europe offering a premium level product experience in the near future, according to the 2018-2019 Cruise Industry News Annual Report.

Come 2019, the brand will have a fleet of six modern large Mein Schiff ships, plus the existing Mein Schiff 2, for a total of seven vessels and over 17,500 berths, with a projected capacity of over 650,000 guests.

This will move them past P&O UK, which has been the largest premium European brand for some time, which has a projected 2019 capacity of around 550,000 cruise passengers with seven ships and 17,311 berths.

Other premium lines in Europe include Cunard Line, Fred. Olsen and Saga Cruises.

---

About the Annual Report:

The Cruise Industry News Annual Report is the only book of its kind, presenting the worldwide cruise industry through 2027 in 400 pages.

Statistics are independently researched.

See a preview by clicking here.

The report covers everything from new ships on order to supply-and-demand scenarios from 1987 through 2027+. Plus there is a future outlook, complete growth projections for each cruise line, regional market reports, and detailed ship deployment by region and market, covering all the cruise lines.

Order the 2018-2019 edition today.
Dreamlines has announced an expansion of its business in the United States. After establishing operations in the U.S. in October 2017, Dreamlines said it quickly outgrew its original offices and recently moved into a new facility to hire additional cruise consultants for its growth plan. The new offices are located in Fort Lauderdale. Were excited about the very promising market entry in the last months and are looking forward to further developing our presence in the USA to become a major cruise distribution player, commented Steven Hattem, managing director of Dreamlines USA.

Dreamlines has global operations and claims to be the OTA market leader in Germany and Australia.

Backed by a recent investment of $55 million, Dreamlines plans to invest in its U.S. operations and target the U.S. cruise market. The company said it offers more than 20,000 cruise products from 30 cruise lines. It also connects customers via phone and e-mail with dedicated cruise experts that guide them through the booking process and help them find the cruise that meets their individual needs. In addition, Dreamlines also provides flights and hotel stays.

Dreamlines USA is managed by Steven Hattem and Jasper Roll. Hattem is the responsible manager on the ground in Fort Lauderdale and joined Dreamlines with more than 25 years of experience in the travel and cruise industry. His previous positions include leadership and executive roles at World Travel Holdings (CruiseOne and Cruises Inc.) as well as Carlson Leisure Group - now Travel Leaders. Roll takes care of the U.S. expansion from the Dreamlines headquarters in Germany. He is a B2C sales and systems expert, having held leading roles at Rocket Internet and audibene.

The Dreamlines group is forecasting revenues of $400 million in 2018 and said it will thereby become the biggest cruise OTA outside the U.S. Dreamlines operates in Germany (headquarters), the UK, Australia, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands, France, Italy, Russia, Brazil and Singapore. Dreamlines recently acquired Cruise1st and entered the UK market. We are very satisfied with the successful start of the US business and are looking forward to exploring all opportunities in North America, commented Felix Schneider, CEO of the Dreamlines.
The business entity tax pops up quickly on Bob Stefanowskis economic plan for Connecticut in his quest to become governor.

Phasing it out over two years, in fact, is Step 1 of Bobs Five-Step Plan to Rebuild Connecticut, along with ending the business earnings tax. It comes even before his more widely cited (futile) plan to end the personal income tax over eight years.

Stefanowski isnt alone in decrying the annoying business entity tax, and for good reason. Any business in Connecticut with more than one owner, whether its incorporated or a simple partnership, must pony up $250 every two years just for existing.

Thats bad optics for a state fighting a national image problem.

And yet, Stefanowskis campaign, alone among candidates, paid the tax  even though its not required of political campaign committees.

Stefanowskis July 10 campaign finance report shows the $250 payment made to the Commissioner of Revenue Services on April 22, with the explanation, Mandatory Annual Business Tax Payment for Campaign.

And so Stefanowski, running as an outsider  so far outside that he didnt bother to vote for at least 16 years until news outlets pointed it out last fall  is also an outsider to the tax laws hed like to change.

Its completely unnecessary from our vantage point, said Joshua Foley, a spokesman and staff attorney for the state Elections Enforcement Commission.

Campaigns are normally classified as committees, not businesses, Foley said  adding that even if a campaign were to organize itself as a business, it would still be subject to all campaign laws. Hes not aware of any campaign having asked for an official opinion on whether it must pay the business entity tax.

Is that bad optics for Stefanowski, voluntarily paying a tax he abhors? Not according to the campaign.

Just to be clear, Bob pays his taxes, said Patrick Trueman, the campaign manager.

The question is what that says about a candidate who wants to rewrite the state tax code. As a veteran business executive whose entire claim is that hes a successful manager, youd think he would be shrewd enough to pay only what the owes and not more.

Then again, Stefanowski wears his lack of government experience proudly. Hes had to squirm in recent weeks to explain why he registered as a Democrat from October 2016  just before the presidential election  until July 2017, when he decided to run for governor as a Republican.

At least one opponent said Stefanowski paying the tax is a sign. It raises the question of whether he knows what hes doing, said David Stemerman, a Greenwich hedge fund manager who, like Stefanowski, has no prior experience running for office. The guy is a consultant-manufactured candidate.

To those who have followed the race, these two guys have attacked each other more than any other pair of the five Republicans running.

A quick search of the state Elections Enforcement Commission database shows that only one candidate in recent years might have paid the business entity tax. That was Susan Bysiewicz, in her unsuccessful 2010 campaign for attorney general, then governor. She paid $250 to the Department of Revenue Services for overhead, and when I asked her last week whether that was the business entity tax, she did not remember.

Bysiewicz made the payment in early 2011, after the election, less than a week after her term ended as Secretary of the State  the office that keeps the list of business entities liable for the tax. The Democrat is now a candidate for lieutenant governor and her campaign did not pay the tax.

As for the entity tax itself, few people, especially among Republicans, like it precisely because its a tax just for existing  not based on profits or operations. Its small, amassing an average of $25.7 million over the last two years, according to the state Department of Revenue Services.

The tax started in 2002  under former Gov. John G. Rowland, a Republican  as an annual levy of $250. In 2013, under Democrat Dannel P. Malloy, it was cut to once every two years. Last year it was paid by 171,245 business entities including, for example, husband-and-wife business projects that dont show any revenues yet.

It might even be owed by nonprofits. The business entity tax in decided by the structure of the entity, not whether its profit or nonprofit, DRS spokesman Jim Polites said Monday.

And, to be perfectly clear, its not illegal for a campaign to pay the tax. The state thanks Bob Stefanowski for his generosity.

dhaar@hearstmediact.com
It was with no little intrigue that Tavern Island came off the market in July, the mystery buyer choosing to remain anonymous in purchasing the citys most-watched listing.

Norwalk had a new enigma entering August, after the citys most expensive property listed for sale quietly came off the market  with the owner a known entity in Norwalk and beyond.

Stamford developer Carl Kuehner III has removed his Wilson Point home from the Norwalk market, after dropping the asking price this year to just under $9 million, down from $11.9 million when the mansion first came on the market in January 2016.

The Georgian mansion at 12 Valley Road had been the priciest residential real estate listing on the Norwalk market, exceeding that of Tavern Island, which had been listed for $8.7 million and sold in June for $7.9 million.

With those two properties no longer available, a waterfront home at 5 Rowayton Ave. now is now tops in Norwalk after coming on the market three months ago and dropping its price 6 percent in mid-June to $5.9 million.

In moving to Greenwich, Kuehner had listed the home with William Pitt Sothebys International Realty, which is controlled by his real estate development and management firm Building & Land Technology.

A William Pitt Sothebys spokesperson did not offer comment on why the Kuehner property is no longer listed for sale. As of Monday, the Norwalk town clerks office had published no record of any sale of the property.

In its own market report for the second quarter, William Pitt Sothebys noted a small buyer pool for luxury properties in lower Fairfield County, with many properties absorbing major discounts to land a sale and amazing values to be had as buyers take what they can get in the current market cycle. In the second quarter, William Pitt Sothebys tracked a dozen sales transactions at $5 million or more, five fewer than a year ago, and just above 80 remaining luxury properties priced above that mark.

The brokerage firm noted significant rental activity in the luxury market, with Kuehner having previously listed 12 Valley Road for rent at $30,000 a month.

In his Building and Land Technology real estate empire, Kuehner has proven willing to hold out for the rents he is seeking, including for Stamford trophy buildings like 200 Elm Street and the former headquarters of Pitney Bowes in the South End, where at last report BLT was the lone tenant of the 550,000-square-foot edifice.

Known best today for its Harbor Point project that has transformed Stamfords waterfront over the past decade, BLT has several other local developments including Grist Mill Village in Norwalk, the largest single apartment complex under construction at present in southwestern Connecticut.

Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman
Zimbabwe's armed forces chief is demanding to know who ordered troops last week to break up protests against the ruling party's election victory and why he wasn't informed about the decision, according to three senior government officials.

General Philip Valerio Sibanda asked for an explanation from President-elect Emmerson Mnangagwa, his advisers and intelligence chiefs of the events on Aug. 1 that left six people dead in the capital, Harare, and raised questions about who controls the security forces. No one shed light on what happened, according to the officials, who have details of the Aug. 3 meeting but asked not to be identified because they aren't authorized to comment.

The military dramatically intervened in Zimbabwe's political scene in November when it briefly took control of the southern African nation and prompted the ruling party to force long-time President Robert Mugabe step down and replace him with Mnangagwa. The commander at the time, Constantino Chiwenga, was appointed deputy president.

At the meeting with the president, Sibanda, a respected figure who commanded a multinational peace-keeping force in Angola, also wanted to know the identity of armed men dressed in ragtag uniforms that were shown on social media beating people and riding in military vehicles. He said publicly that no Zimbabwean soldier was ordered to fire on unarmed civilians and no such directive would ever be given.

"We're witnessing what are purported soldiers, but they're not soldiers, and we're very busy investigating this," Foreign Minister Sibusiso Moyo, a retired general, said Tuesday by phone.

Mnangagwa, who was declared the winner of the presidential vote on Aug. 3 and is due to be inaugurated on Sunday, told reporters the police were legally entitled to request the army's assistance to maintain public order when they were overwhelmed. He ignored a question about whether he was told in advance of the deployment and promised to set up an independent probe into the violence. Army spokesman Overson Mugwusi didn't answer calls seeking comment.

The officials said Sibanda, 61, also demanded that Mnangagwa, who is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, ensure members of the ruling party don't involve themselves in military affairs and the police do their job without relying on the army's support.

Mnangagwa dismissed suggestions that rogue elements within the government may have orchestrated the operation, possibly as part of a plot to oust him, and the national intelligence agency has thus far been unable to explain how the events unfolded, they said.

The protests erupted after the electoral commission declared the Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front the winner of almost 70 percent of the directly elected parliamentary seats, an outcome the opposition said was rigged. Western and local observers said while the campaign and vote were largely peaceful, the electoral process was badly flawed.

Human rights organizations have also received numerous reports from Harare residents that men in military uniforms went door-to-door seeking members of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change and beating up many of them.

"The Zimbabwe Defence Forces has not deployed soldiers in any residential area to beat people up at night or any time of day," army spokesman Mugwusi was cited by the Harare-based Daily News newspaper as saying. "If there are individuals masquerading as our members committing crime, these might be criminals bent on tarnishing the image of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces."

The police and army were scheduled to address a joint press conference on Sunday afternoon, but it never took place. The state broadcaster later cited police spokeswoman Charity Charamba as saying the briefing had been postponed to a later date due to circumstances beyond the security forces' control.
Mitch Hallock, a lifelong comics guy who went to school for art and design and has worked in public relations and event planning, did PR on a comics convention years ago when he decided he should try running his own.

The one-day event he put on in Trumbull, not far from his house, drew 3,000 people. And today, his Fedora Marketing is producing TerrifiCon, which will return to Mohegan Sun from Friday through Sunday, Aug. 17-19, and occupy every inch of the spacious new Earth Expo & Convention Center, he says in a phone chat.

Hallock, a West Haven product who went to Notre Dame High and Southern Connecticut State University, doesnt want to overestimate, but it would not be surprising if this version drew between 18,000 and 20,000 visitors over the three days  some of them in colorful character costumes. In a phone chat, we asked Hallock if he encourages cosplay, where fans show up in self-made costumes of characters.

Oh God, yeah, he says quickly. To me, its like when they have the Dairy Queens and they have those 57 Chevy nights and the guys show up with the cars theyve been working on for 20 years. The TerrifiCon costume contest is the best hour youll see... Sunday at 3 oclock. We get so many talented people.

Unlike most other comics conventions, including the huge Comic-Con International in San Diego recently, TerrifiCon sticks mostly to comics as its subject matter, although there will be a new Aw Yeah Fun Zone in the adjacent Earth Ballroom with arts, crafts, robotics, workshops, puppetry and live music. Theres also a CTGamer Arena for gamers.

Special guests will include 100-plus comic book creators, largest in New England, Hallock says, including Marvels new Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski and writer/artist Jim Starlin, creator of Thanos and the Infinity Gauntlet storyline (basis of the hit film Avengers: Infinity War).

Where he once had to almost talk in code to find other comics fans at a party (hed drop the phrase Ultimate Nullifier and look for a reaction), now everyone knows comics buzzwords, such as the infinity stones from the Avengers movie. The genre is huge, so is there danger of a bubble?

Well ... Im Italian and pessimistic. Thats the way we are ... My Italian grandmothers, thats the way they always did it. Hey, laugh today, cry tomorrow. ... So youre always thinking you have to outdo yourself, you know... I already have next years show done in my head.

When I do that stuff (draw up plans), youre always thinking, because you dont know if the bubble is gonna burst, you dont know if comic books are gonna go away, he says, listing departed fads such as disco and punk rock as examples. Then again, he notes, every week there seems to be another blockbuster movie coming out from the comic-book genre.

So Hallock says he programs the conventions like a show  a carnival atmosphere because I like it to be like Disney World... When you come to one of my shows, when youre done, youre like Holy geez, what time is it? Weve been here all day.

There will be a couple of stars who arent associated with comics franchises (Henry Winkler the Yale alum who played The Fonz on Happy Days and Ralph Maccio of Karate Kid fame) but others have comics connections. Folks like Michael Jai White (star of superhero flick Spawn, who has lived in New Haven and attended SCSC), actor Jon Bernthal of Marvels The Punisher series on Netflix series and Lou Ferrigno (star of The Incredible Hulk).

Another thing Hallock is excited about this year is a bigger room for Q&A panels, which the (partitioned) Earth ballroom allows: Weve actually gotten a reputation for having these one-hour Q&A panels where the writers and artists talk about working on Superman and Batman... they open up and tell people stories about the history that no one has heard.

More Information Mohegan Sun Exposition Center, 1 Mohegan Sun Blvd., Uncasville. Aug. 17-19, 3-9 p.m. Friday, 10-7 Saturday, 10-5 Sunday. $29.75-$26.75 adults; $5 more on day of show. Children 10 & under free, two with one paying adult. MoheganSun.com See More Collapse

Hallock sys we still have that neighborhood kind-of community idea of the gathering... Its not a big fanboy flee market where you come and buy stuff.

jamarante@nhregister.com; @Joeammo on Twitter
Contributed Photo / Contributed Photo

STRATFORD  The public is invited to join the Stratford Police K9 Unit for a meet and greet fundraiser early next month.

The event is expected to run from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sept. 1 at the Riverview Bistro, 946 Ferry Boulevard in Stratford. Admission will be $10. Kids under 12 will be granted free admission.
BRIDGEPORT  Union officials say layoffs and raising the state juvenile offender age to 18 have created a safety problem at the citys state juvenile detention center.

Its a serious situation that could get much worse, Ron Nelson, a juvenile detention officer and vice president of AFSCME Local 749, said Tuesday. Our officers are tired and overworked, and the kids they supervise know it. Its only a matter of time before something bad happens.

In July 2016, the state Judicial Branch, which oversees Connecticuts juvenile detention centers, laid off 40 officers. In 2012, the state finished implementing changes approved five years earlier by the legislature that raised the age of eligibility for the juvenile justice system to 18 years old.

The combination ... has left our juvenile detention facilities understaffed and our juvenile detention officers overworked and vulnerable to injury and burnout, said AFSCME Local 749 President and State Supreme Court Police Officer Charles DellaRocco.

DellaRocco said the union has filed numerous grievances against the Judicial Branch over staffing and safety-related issues, as well as two State Prohibited Practice complaints with the state Department of Labor. One of those complaints is scheduled for a hearing on Wednesday in Hartford.

Administrators said they are aware of the problems and have begun hiring more staff.

The Judicial Branch is committed to meeting all standards related to best practices as well as state and federal laws and regulations related to our two juvenile detention centers (in Bridgeport and Hartford), Chief Court Administrator Patrick Carroll III said.

In the spring of fiscal year 2016, due to significant budget constraints, the Judicial Branch issued 300 layoff notices over a two-month period, which included 40 juvenile detention officers and 15 other employees who worked in the detention centers, Carroll said. This past spring, all of the laid-off juvenile detention officers were offered the opportunity to return to work, but only 13 accepted, and 10 additional employees who worked in the detention center returned to work.

Nelson said the detention center in Bridgeport is supposed to be staffed by 55 officers working three shifts, but 22 of those officers are out on workers compensation with injuries he said were the result of being overworked.

We have officers out with torn (knee ligaments), shoulder and back injuries, many are long-term workers comp cases, he said.

Because the age was increased (six years ago), many of the juveniles are the size of adult men and women, and are a greater threat, physically, he said. Many of the juveniles at the center are also rival gang members, Nelson said, and there not enough officers to keep them separate.

We had an instance where gang members jumped an individual, an officer called for backup but there was no one to back him up and he became injured, Nelson said.

Carroll said the Judicial Branch hired 21 juvenile detention trainee transitional officers on June 22, but two new employees did not report for the mandatory pre-service training. The remaining 19 new juvenile detention workers went through an intensive five weeks of pre-service training and another week of orientation. The detention workers started in the field on Friday.

The Judicial Branch is continuously recruiting juvenile detention workers and will be hiring another class with a minimum of 10 new hires this fall, Carroll said.

He said the juvenile detention centers have been accredited by the American Correctional Association since 2003, the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare since 2004, and have been compliant with the Prison Rape Elimination Act since 2014. The centers are re-accredited every three years.

Editors note: An earlier version of this story erroneously said the age of eligibility for the states juvenile justice system increased to 18 under an initiative introduced by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy. The increase was implemented in 2012 under legislation approved in 2007, when M. Jodi Rell was Connecticuts governor.
For the 2018 Christmas season, Chattanooga area military organizations are joining forces with the Civil Air Patrol to ensure that a wreath is placed on each of the 43,000 gravestones at Chattanooga National Cemetery. The placement of these wreaths will take place on Saturday, Dec. 15, at noon.

Officials said, "In many local discussions, there is a perception that a wreath is placed on every grave marker at Chattanooga National Cemetery but that is not the case. In reality, only enough funds or wreaths donated at a national level, cover at most 10,000, of the 43,000 headstones. Since enough wreaths have not been received to cover all headstones, the Civil Air Patrol works with Chattanooga National Cemetery to prioritize which section or sections are covered. This means that the remaining sections are not honored with a wreath."

Information will be forthcoming about how the public can help.
Social Media Giants Under Caution In Vietnam

US lawmakers urged Alphabet Inc.s Google and Facebook Inc. not to comply with a Vietnam cyber-security law that requires storing domestic users data in the country, if doing so allows the government to "improperly" seize the information.

The law, which goes into effect next year, also requires foreign Internet companies to open local offices and bans the use of social networks to organise anti-state activities, spread false information or create difficulties for authorities.

This broad and vaguely worded law would allow the communist authorities to access private data, spy on users, and further restrict the limited online speech freedoms enjoyed by Vietnamese citizens, 17 bipartisan members of Congress said in a letter to Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg. A similar letter from senators is expected.

The measure passed last month has drawn rare dissent from some lawmakers, government leaders and tech groups in the Southeast Asian nation, who sent a petition to the legislature cautioning it would hurt the economy.

Demonstrators have protested nationwide against the bill, saying it would limit free speech.

The letter urged Google and Facebook to raise the issue "at the highest levels" if Vietnam coerces them into aiding censorship, calling reports that the firms have complied in removing video and accounts troubling." They also asked that US lawmakers and the State Department be told of requests for user data so they can "assess who is being targeted and why."

Representatives of Google and Facebook, as well as Vietnams Ministry of Foreign Affairs, didnt immediately respond to requests for comments.

The law is hurting the countrys reputation as a good place for the world to do business in, Jeff Paine, managing director of the Asia Internet Coalition, which represents Facebook and Google, said in a statement.

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Billie Zahurak plans annual event to continue husband's pledge of support to the United Way

The first Bob Zahurak Memorial Painting Event in March raised $3,000 for the United Way of the Laurel Highlands. Bob's wife Billie plans to continue the event each year in his memory.
US President Donald Trumps first round of Iran-related sanctions has come into force this week, with no waiver for India in sight as yet. The US Congress has passed legislation granting India a waiver from its new Russia-centred sanctions, but the waiver is conditional and contingent upon a periodic presidential certification. The Indian media highlighted the passing of the waiver legislation but not the conditions it incorporated.

Sanctions

India, as a longstanding significant buyer of Russian weapons and the second-largest importer of Iranian oil after China, is a major victim of the new US sanctions. By implicitly mounting two-pronged pressure on New Delhi on energy and defence fronts, Washington has injected a major new irritant in the bilateral relationship, as if to underscore the risks for India of pursuing a foreign policy too closely aligned with America.

By slapping a nation with punitive sanctions, the US seeks to block trade and financial activities with that country even by other states. Such extraterritorial sanctions  which it euphemistically labels secondary sanctions  run counter to international law. Yet the US uses its unmatched power to turn national actions into global measures.

Today, however, it faces a major test to effectively enforce its new extraterritorial sanctions relating to Iran, a Trump obsession, and Russia, which still evokes bipartisan hostility in Washington although Russias economy has shrunk to one-tenth the size of Chinas and its military spending to one-fifth of Chinas.

Trumps sanctions aimed at throttling the Iranian economy after his unilateral withdrawal from the multilateral Iran nuclear deal have prompted calls for defiance even in Europe. The new Russia sanctions, however, were initiated by Congress, which passed a law to compel the Trump administration to act against Moscow. Known as Countering Americas Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, or CAATSA, the law uses the sanctions threat to wean countries off their craving for Russian weapons so as to boost Americas own arms sales.

The US is already the worlds leading exporter of weapons by far. Another paradox is that the US has overtaken Russia as the top arms seller to India. But while Russia has transferred to India offensive weapons, including a nuclear-powered submarine (INS Chakra) and an aircraft carrier (INS Vikramaditya), the US has been selling defensive military systems to India, such as the P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft and the C-17 Globemaster III and C-130J Super Hercules military transport planes. India cannot snap its defence ties with Moscow for another reason: It relies on Russian spare parts for maintenance of its Russian-made hardware, some of the Soviet origin.

While the CAATSA waiver will allow India to go ahead with the pending purchase from Russia of the interceptor-based S-400 Triumf air and anti-missile defence system, future Indian imports from Russia are likely to face US scrutiny. In fact, the waiver legislation mandates that India, Vietnam and Indonesia  the three countries granted waivers from the CAATSA sanctions  demonstrate that each is significantly reducing dependence on Russian arms or significantly increasing cooperation with the US.

(Photo: Reuters)

Waiver

The congressional intent was clearly to leverage the waiver. For example, a presidential certification must specify the active steps each nation is taking or planning to cut its inventory of Russian hardware. Such a reporting requirement, by shining a spotlight on Indias arms inventory, promises to act as an irritant in the bilateral relationship. Washington is also stepping up pressure on India to sign the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), which the Indian military fears could compromise its network.

The reason why only India, Indonesia and Vietnam were granted waivers is that the US is trying to sway these three into its orbit. In the case of Turkey, a NATO member that, like India, is buying the S-400, Congress is threatening reprisals against Ankara. US pressure on India, Indonesia and Vietnam, however, is unlikely to fully dissipate because no blanket waivers have been granted.

Energy

Meanwhile, through its Iran-related sanctions, the US is likely to influence the energy-import policy of India, which currently imports more than three-fourths of its crude oil requirements. According to the International Energy Agency, India is set to emerge as the fastest-growing crude consumer in the world by 2040. Washington is seeking to sell more oil and gas to India and also encouraging it to switch imports from Iran to Saudi Arabia and other US allies.

Next-door Iran, however, has long been a major oil supplier to India. It will remain important for Indias energy-import diversification strategy. US sanctions, however, threaten to affect even New Delhis political cooperation with Tehran, including impeding Indias Pakistan-bypassing transportation corridor to Afghanistan via Iran. India has invested in modernising the Chabahar Port. As the top US general in Afghanistan acknowledged last year, Iranian-Indian-Afghan cooperation over the Chabahar Port presents great economic potential for landlocked Afghanistan, which has had to depend on a hostile Pakistan for access to a port.

By making India a key target of the extraterritorial effects of its sanctions on Iran and Russia, and then dangling concessions as favours, the US is doing a disservice to its goal of making the India-US strategic partnership a linchpin of its larger strategy to build a free, open and democratic-led Indo-Pacific region. Its actions compound Indias foreign-policy challenges, including how to balance the relationships with various key players.

(Courtesy of Mail Today)

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In 1994, the Allahabad High Court was on the target of goons belonging to a particular political party. On the request of the chief justice, I as a young officer, led a column of soldiers into the court complex to tackle the situation.

The chief justice feared for the safety of his staff. He was also worried about his own safety because his office had been ransacked by the same goons. It was the arrival of Army that finally restored confidence in the chief justice, his staff and other advocates that they could work in peace.

In July the Himachal High Court called in the Army to evict encroachers from five villages in Shimla after the police and local authorities failed to do the job.

Just last week, the Uttarakhand High Court warned that if the state failed to protect tigers, it may be compelled to seek the assistance of ministry of defence and deploy the ecological task force.

The Indian Army is called in every major disaster natural or man-made, a calamity or an uprising.

As a force, the Army has never let down the nation. At the time of the Sikkim earthquake in 2011, Army personnel left their own damaged camps to rescue the civilian population.

During the 2014 Kashmir floods, Army men were out to save lives ignoring their own families. They did their job even as stones were pelted at them while trying to take people to safer locations.

Army personnel carry out rescue operations during Kashmir floods in 2014. (Source: Indian Army)

In every insurgency and proxy war that India has faced, it has been the Army which has fought back to restore the situation, whether it be Nagaland, Manipur, Punjab or now Kashmir.

In each case the Army suffered losses and operated with its hands tied, braving casualties, but seeking to protect locals.

In 2015, a column of the Army was ambushed in Manipur, leading to the death of 18 soldiers.

There have been similar incidents in the past in both Nagaland and Manipur, yet the Army has never retaliated against those supporting insurgents.

While Army personnel are also humans and have made mistakes, no official has worked for personal gains in conflict areas.

In October 2016, the parents of Lt ET Joseph finally got an opportunity to visit his grave in Nagaland, where he was buried after being killed in an encounter in 1992. His remains were shifted back to his home town after 24 years. Most of those who were martyred in remote locations in the early days of the insurgencies in Manipur and Nagaland had their last rites performed in there itself as there were no means available to carry their remains back to their families across India.

The peace that prevails in Nagaland and Manipur today is a result of the Army's relentless pursuit of those working against Indian interests. The insurgent groups have never missed an opportunity to target the Army as it is the one force they fear.

The Army is 'enemy number one' both for the insurgents and their supporters as it has always operated with impartiality and struck hard at the will of the insurgents, whom the locals have supported.

There have been instances where the Army had to apply pressure on locals because for any insurgency to survive, local support is essential. There may have been occasions when the quantum of pressure applied was excessive. However, it has always been for the larger cause of national security and never for any personal gains.

A soft approach is no solution to deal with violent insurgencies. The Army is compelled to adopt a tough stance in such circumstances and that is why the government has enacted the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).

The law allows a certain degree of protection to those who work in difficult situations.

Many Army personnel deployed in conflict zones suffer trauma and stress. (Source: Reuters)

The tendency to conduct post-mortems of armed action post the resolution of crises, conducting inquiries against those who risked their lives is not in the right spirit.

Many Army personnel deployed in conflict zones suffer trauma and stress. Many have to witness the deaths of their close friends. To question them now, for actions taken or ordered decades ago is inhuman because it would compel the said officers to relive the trauma that they have been trying hard to forget.

There are many organisations within the nation, some financed by inimical forces and some with vested interests, which would seek to ensure that the morale of the nation's ultimate source of power - the Army - is impacted. They would challenge the Army's involvement in every operation, blaming it even if it is right, seeking to hurt its reputation and honour.

The hearing in the Supreme Court against the Army operations in Manipur, presently underway, should not become a witch-hunt against those who operated in the state, restored government control and established peace. It should be aimed at modifying existing rules of engagement to reduce undesired casualties.

The witch-hunt would not bring back those who died but only force Army personnel who continue to battle anti-nationals to slow down their operations. This would be detrimental to the nation, its freedom and growth.

The Army has over the years become the easiest target for all who seek to discredit it, as it hardly responds to criticism.

I request the learned Supreme Court judges to visit the troubled areas where Army personnel are deployed and see the pressures under which they work before ruling against any official.

This would ensure the Army carries out its job of safeguarding the borders and maintain peace and stability in the country with greater confidence.

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Allianz SE, together with its subsidiaries, provides property-casualty insurance, life/health insurance, and asset management products and services worldwide. The company's Property-Casualty segment offers various insurance products, including motor liability and own damage, accident, general liability, fire and property, legal expense, credit, and travel to private and corporate customers. Its Life/Health segment provides a range of life and health insurance products on an individual and a group basis, such as annuities, endowment and term insurance, and unit-linked and investment-oriented products, as well as private and supplemental health, and long-term care insurance products. The company's Asset Management segment offers institutional and retail asset management products and services to third-party investors comprising equity and fixed income funds, and multi-assets; and alternative investment products comprising infrastructure debt/equity, real assets, liquid alternatives, and solutions. Its Corporate and Other segment provides banking services for retail clients, as well as digital investment management services. Allianz SE was founded in 1890 and is headquartered in Munich, Germany.

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HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA, together with its subsidiaries, develops, manufactures, and sells lighting and electronic components and systems for automotive industry worldwide. It operates through three segments: Automotive, Aftermarket, and Special Applications. The Automotive segment offers headlamps, rear combination lamps, car body and interior lighting products, and radomes; and body electronics, energy management, lighting electronics, and steering solutions, as well as driver assistance systems and components, including sensors and engine compartment actuators. The Aftermarket segment produces and sells automotive parts and accessories primarily in the areas of lighting, electrics, and electronics; and provides workshop solutions in the areas of diagnostics and calibration, as well as various services for wholesalers and workshops. The Special Applications segment develops, manufactures, and markets lighting technology and electronic products for special vehicles comprising construction and agricultural machinery, buses, and motor homes, as well as for the marine sector. The company has strategic collaboration with AEye, Inc. to develop LiDAR sensor systems. The company was formerly known as HELLA KGaA Hueck & Co. and changed its name to HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA in October 2017. HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA was founded in 1899 and is headquartered in Lippstadt, Germany. As of June 26, 2020, HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA operates as a subsidiary of Hella Stiftung GmbH.

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Wall Street analysts have given iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF 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 iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

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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.

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S.A. de C.V., Becton Dickinson Infusion Therapy UK, Becton Dickinson Insulin Syringe Ltd., Becton Dickinson International Holdings II Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson International Holdings III Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson International Holdings Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson Israel Ltd., Becton Dickinson Italia S.p.A., Becton Dickinson Ithalat Ihracat Limited Sirketi, Becton Dickinson Korea Holding Inc., Becton Dickinson Korea Ltd., Becton Dickinson Ltd., Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Finance S.a.r.L., Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Global Holdings Sarl, Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Holdings II S.a.r.L, Becton Dickinson Luxembourg Holdings III S.a.r.L, Becton Dickinson Malaysia Inc., Becton Dickinson Management GmbH & Co. KG, Becton Dickinson Matrex Holdings Inc., Becton Dickinson Medical (S) Pte Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Devices (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Devices (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Products Pte. Ltd., Becton Dickinson Medical Technology (Jiangsu) Co. 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Bhd., Becton Dickinson Slovakia s.r.o., Becton Dickinson Sweden AB, Becton Dickinson Sweden Holdings AB, Becton Dickinson Switzerland Global Holdings SarL, Becton Dickinson Technology Campus India, Becton Dickinson U.K. Limited, Becton Dickinson UK Financing I Ltd., Becton Dickinson UK Financing II Ltd., Becton Dickinson Venezuela C.A., Becton Dickinson Venture LLC, Becton Dickinson Verwaltungs GmbH, Becton Dickinson Vostok LLC, Becton Dickinson Worldwide Investments Sa.r.L., Becton Dickinson Zambia Limited, Becton Dickinson and Company Ltd., Becton Dickinson de Colombia Ltda., Becton Dickinson de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Becton Dickinson del Uruguay S.A., Benex Ltd., Biometric Imaging, Bridger Biomed Inc., C. R. Bard, C. R. Bard (Portugal)-Produtos e Artigos Medicos e Farmaceuticos, C. R. Bard Do Brazil Productos Medicos Ltds., C. R. Bard GmbH, C. R. Bard Inc., C. R. Bard Netherlands Sales B.V., CME America LLC, CME Ltd., CME Medical (UK) Limited, CME UK (Holdings) Limited, CRISI Medical Systems, CRISI Medical Systems Inc., Caesarea Medical Electronics, Cardal II LLC, Care Fusion Development Private Limited, CareFusion, CareFusion (Barbados) SrL, CareFusion (Shanghai) Commercial and Trading Co. Limited, CareFusion 213 LLC, CareFusion 2200 Inc., CareFusion 2201 Inc., CareFusion 302 LLC, CareFusion 303 Inc., CareFusion Asia (HK) Limited, CareFusion BH 335 d.o.o. Cazin, CareFusion Corporation, CareFusion D.R. 203 Ltd., CareFusion France 309 S.A.S., CareFusion Germany 318 GmbH, CareFusion Iberia 308 S.L., CareFusion Israel 330 Ltd., CareFusion Italy 312 S.p.A., CareFusion Manufacturing LLC, CareFusion Mexico 215 S.A. de C.V., CareFusion Netherlands 328 B.V., CareFusion Netherlands 503 B.V., CareFusion Netherlands 504 B.V., CareFusion Netherlands Financing 283 C.V., CareFusion Resources LLC, CareFusion S.A. 319 (Proprietary) Limited, CareFusion Solutions LLC, CareFusion U.K. 244 Limited, CareFusion U.K. 305 Limited, CareFusion U.K. 306 Limited, Carmel Pharma AB, Carmel Pharma Inc, Cato Software Solutions, Cell Analysis Systems Inc, Cellular Research, Cellular Research Inc., Clearstream Technologies Group Limited, Clearstream Technologies Limited, Clontech Laboratories Inc, Corporativo BD de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Cubex, Cytopeia, DLD (Bermuda) Ltd., DVL Acquisition Sub Inc., Davol Inc., Davol International Limited, Davol Surgical Innovations S.A. de C.V., Difco Laboratories Incorporated, Distribuidora BD Mexico S.A. de C.V., Dutch American Manufacturers (D.A.M.) B.V., Dymax Corporation, Embo Medical Limited, Enturia de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Enturican Inc., FJ International Inc., FlowCardia Inc., FlowCardia LLC, FlowJo LLC, Franklin Lakes Enterprises L.L.C., GSL Solutions, Gamer Lasertechnik GmbH, GenCell Biosystems, GenCell Biosystems Ltd., GeneOhm Sciences, GeneOhm Sciences Canada Inc., Gentest Corporation, Gesco International Inc., Gesco International LLC, HandyLab Inc, HandyLab Inc., IBD Holdings LLC, Ionotophoretics Corporation, JoHome LLC, Kabushiki Kaisha Medicon (Medicon Inc.), Liberator Health and Education Services Inc., Liberator Health and Wellness Inc., Liberator Medical Holdings Inc., Liberator Medical Supply Inc., LifeBond, Limited Liability Company Bard Rus, Loma Vista Medical Inc., Loma Vista Medical LLC, Lutonix Inc., Med-Design Corporation, Med-Design Investment Holdings Inc., Med-Safe Systems Inc., MedChem Products Inc., Medafor Inc., Medegen LLC, Medinservice.com Inc., Medivance Inc., NAT Diagnostics, NAT Diagnostics Inc., NOW Medical Distribution Inc., NOW Medical Distribution LLC, Navarre Biomedical LLC, Navarre Biomedical Ltd., Neomend Inc., Nippon Becton Dickinson Company Ltd., Omega Biosystems Incorporated, P.R.C.(Isialys)Societe a responsabilitie limitee(Societe a associe unique), PT Becton Dickinson Indonesia, PharMingen, PreAnalytiX GmbH, Pristine Access Technologies Inc., ProSeed Inc., Procesos para Esterilizacion S.A. de C.V., Productos Bard de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Productos Para el Cuidado de la Salud S.A. de C.V., Puls Medical Devices AS LC, PureWick Corporation, Roberts Laboratories Inc., Rochester Medical Corporation, Rochester Medical Ltd., Saf-T-Med, Safety Syringes, Safety Syringes Inc., Sendal S.L.U., SenoRx Inc., SenoRx LLC, Shield Healthcare Centers Inc., Sirigen, Sirigen II Limited, Sirigen Inc., Sistemas Medicos ALARIS S.A. de C.V., Specialized Cooperative Corporation, Specialized Health Products Inc., Specialized Health Products International Inc., Specialized Health Products International LLC, Staged Diabetes Management LLC, Straub Medical, Straub Medical, Straub Medical (US) LLC, Straub Medical (United Kingdom) Ltd., Straub Medical France, Surgical Site Solutions Inc., TVA Medical, TVA Medical GmbH, TVA Medical Inc., Tepha, Touchstone Medical Limited, Tri-County Medical & Ostomy Supplies Inc., TriPath Imaging, TriPath Imaging Inc., Vas-Cath Incorporated, Vascular Pathways Inc., Velano Vascular, Venetec International Inc., Venetec International LLC, Y-Med Inc., and Y-Med LLC.
By The Associated Press Aug. 05, 2018 | 09:01 AM | FANCY FARM

Saying it was never too soon to start, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell formally announced his 2020 re-election bid in his home state Saturday and tapped the young leader of the state's House Republicans as his campaign chairman.

The 76-year-old McConnell has said for months that he intends to run for re-election in 2020. But he left little room for doubt while speaking at a GOP breakfast in far western Kentucky, the precursor to the Fancy Farm picnic that serves as the traditional starting point for the state's fall campaign season.

"I have some news to make this morning. I'm going to be running for re-election in 2020," McConnell told the crowd at Graves County Middle School, adding: "I don't like starting late."

McConnell chose Jonathan Shell, the 30-year-old majority leader of the Kentucky House of Representatives, as chairman of his campaign. Shell made national news in May when he was ousted in a Republican primary by a high school math teacher who had never run for office before. The election was seen by many as result of massive protests across the country by teachers and public workers upset with education funding, retirement benefits and low pay.

Hundreds of teachers mustered at the Fancy Farm picnic Saturday. The 138-year-old tradition in western Kentucky is known for pitting politicians of both parties onstage before a crowd of raucous hecklers who do their best to fluster those brave enough to stand at the microphone. Raising the stakes, the speeches are broadcast live on statewide television.

As McConnell spoke Saturday, hundreds of teachers in matching red T-shirts stood and turned their backs on him as they chanted, "Vote him out!"

But McConnell was steady, seeming amused by some of the reactions. Near the end of his speech, McConnell addressed the Republican side of the crowd by turning to the Democrats and saying: "Don't be afraid of these people. Stand up for America and help us make America great again."

As he readies his re-election campaign, McConnell has been embracing Trump, especially as he tours his home state. U.S. Rep. James Comer, who represents Kentucky's 1st Congressional District, said Trump has a 73 percent approval rating in his area. According to the FiveThirtyEight.com, McConnell votes with Trump in the Senate 94.7 percent of the time. Saturday, McConnell bragged he canceled the August recess so he can spend more time "promoting the Trump agenda all the way through the month of August."

A big part of that agenda is confirming judges, a role that will likely be a big part of McConnell's re-election strategy. He said his decision to block former President Barack Obama's Supreme Court nominee in the final months of his presidency "was the single most consequential decision I've made in my career." He vowed the Senate would confirm Brett Kavanaugh, the judge Trump has nominated to replace retiring Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy.

He added that if Republicans can keep control of the Senate for the rest of Trump's term "we can transform the federal judiciary."

McConnell's biggest critic Saturday was Alison Lundergan Grimes, the Democratic secretary of state who lost to McConnell in 2014. McConnell left the Fancy Farm stage before the program ended, prompting Grimes to quip "he is very busy rushing a Supreme Court vote."

"It is so sad. Like many men, he suffers from premature confirmation. And like a man, he claims it never happens to him," she said.

Democrats hoped the picnic would jump-start their efforts to regain control of a state they dominated for decades. They point to picnic no-shows this year, including Republican Gov. Matt Bevin and U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, as evidence of growing momentum that would scare them away from facing the raucous crowds of Fancy Farm.

Paul is not attending because he is on a trip to Russia. On Friday night, at the Democrats traditional bean supper, Grimes said that "many folks think that Rand Paul can't be beat."

"I don't buy that. Just ask his neighbor. He can be beaten," she said, a reference to when Paul was attacked by his neighbor last year, resulting in broken ribs.

Grimes' comment was condemned by Republicans on social media, including Doug Stafford, Paul's chief strategist.

"That's almost as sad and pathetic as her last campaign," Stafford wrote, referring to Grimes' 2014 challenge to McConnell. "Mitch beat her so bad he almost got charged with a hate crime."
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By West Kentucky Star Staff Aug. 06, 2018 | 05:24 PM | WATER VALLEY

A Fulton man is lucky to be alive after his vehicle crashed and caught fire Monday in Graves County.

The Graves County Sheriff's Office says Javier Garcia lost control of his vehicle in the 7600 block of KY 2422, near Water Valley. Garcia told deputies the steering went out of his vehicle and he was unable to control it.

Garcia's vehicle left the road, struck a tree and caught fire. Ammunition in the vehicle then began to explode. Some Good Samaritans got Garcia out of the vehicle and carried him a safe distance away from the fire.

Deputies said Garcia was not wearing a seat belt and was taken to Jackson Purchase Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. A half box of ammunition and a rifle were destroyed in the fire.
The following companies are subsidiares of General Motors: 2140879 Ontario Inc., ACAR Leasing, ACAR Leasing Ltd., ACF Investment, ACF Investment Corp., AFS SenSub, APGO Trust, Adam Opel, Adam Opel GmbH, Aftermarket (UK), AmeriCredit, AmeriCredit Consumer Loan, AmeriCredit Consumer Loan Company Inc., AmeriCredit Financial Services, AmeriCredit Financial Services Inc., AmeriCredit Funding, AmeriCredit Syndicated Warehouse Trust, Annunciata Corporation, Argonaut Holdings, Argonaut Holdings LLC, BOCO (Proprietary), BOCO (Proprietary) Limited, Banco GMAC, Banco GMAC S.A., Baylis (Gloucester), Boco Trust, Boden Brussels, CHEVYPLAN, CHEVYPLAN S.A. Sociedad Administradora de Planes de Autofinanciamiento Comercial, Cadillac, Cadillac Europe, Cadillac Europe GmbH, Carve-Out Ownership, Carve-Out Ownership Cooperative LLC, Chevrolet Deutschland GmbH, Chevrolet Sales (Thailand), Chevrolet Sales (Thailand) Limited, Chevrolet Sales India, Chevrolet Sales India Private Ltd., Chevrolet Sociedad Anonima de Ahorro para Fines Determinados, Controladora General Motors, Controladora General Motors S.A. de C.V., Cruise, DCJ1, DCJ1 LLC, DMAX, DMAX Ltd., Dealership Liquidations, Dealership Liquidations Inc., Delphi Energy and Engine Management Systems UK, Delphi Energy and Engine Management Systems UK Overseas Corporation, EDS (Electronic Data Systems), FAW-GM, Fundacion Chevrolet, G.M.A.C., GCAR Titling Ltd., GM (UK) Pension, GM (UK) Pension Trustees Limited, GM APO Holdings, GM Administradora de Bens, GM Administradora de Bens Ltda., GM Asia Pacific Regional Headquarters Ltd., GM Auslandsprojekte, GM Automotive, GM Automotive Services Belgium, GM CME, GM Canada Holdings, GM Canada Limited, GM Components Holdings, GM Components Holdings LLC, GM Cruise, GM Cruise Holdings LLC, GM Cruise LLC, GM Defense, GM Eurometals, GM Eurometals Inc., GM Europe Treasury, GM Finance, GM Finance Co. Holdings LLC, GM Financial, GM Financial AB, GM Financial Canada, GM Financial Canada Leasing, GM Financial Canada Leasing Ltd., GM Financial Colombia Holdings LLC, GM Financial Colombia S.A. Compania de Financiamiento, GM Financial Consumer, GM Financial Consumer Discount, GM Financial Consumer Discount Company, GM Financial Del Peru, GM Financial GmbH, GM Financial Holdings LLC, GM Financial Insurance Services, GM Financial Mexico Holdings, GM Financial Mexico Holdings LLC, GM Financial Real Estate, GM Financial de Mexico, GM Financial de Mexico S.A. de C.V. 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Limited, GigaPower LLC, Global Services Detroit, Global Services Detroit LLC, Global Tooling Service Company Europe, Global Tooling Service Company Europe Limited, Go Motor Retailing, Go Trade Parts, Grand Pointe Holdings, Grand Pointe Holdings Inc., Grand Pointe Park Condominium, Grand Pointe Park Condominium Association, H.S.H., Haines & Strange, Holden New Zealand, Holden New Zealand Limited, IBC Pension Trustees, IBC Pension Trustees Limited, IBC Vehicles, Lease Ownership Cooperative, Lease Ownership Cooperative LLC, Lidlington Engineering Company, Lidlington Engineering Company Ltd., Limited Liability Company "General Motors CIS", Master Lease Germany, Maven Drive, Maven Drive LLC, Millbrook Pension Management, Millbrook Pension Management Limited, Monetization of Carve-Out, Monetization of Carve-Out LLC, Motor Repris Automocio, Motors Holding, Motors Holding LLC, Motors Properties, Motors Properties (Trading), Multi-Use Lease Entity Trust, North American New Cars, North American New Cars LLC, Omnibus BB Transportes, Omnibus BB Transportes S. 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By The Associated Press

Aug. 06, 2018 | MOSCOW

By The Associated Press Aug. 06, 2018 | 10:17 AM | MOSCOW

U.S. Sen. Rand Paul, who met with Russian lawmakers in Moscow said he invited them to visit Washington and they accepted Monday.



Paul said during a trip to Russia that American and Russian legislators need closer contact, noting that "our biggest problem right now is no dialogue."



The Kentucky Republican said after meeting with members of the foreign affairs committee for Russia's upper house of parliament that he invited them to come to the U.S. capital. Paul added that lawmakers from the two countries could also meet in a neutral third nation.



"Those who believe in either country that we should not have diplomacy are greatly mistaken," he said.



Konstantin Kosachev, the head of the foreign affairs committee in the Federation Council, the upper house, strongly backed Paul's effort to promote contacts.



"Each of these meetings is important for a better understanding of each other and for talking about the perspectives of how to escape the 'dead end' of the relationship," Kosachev said.



In a statement released by his office, Paul emphasized that "engagement is vital to our national security and peace around the world."



"I invited the Russian Federation to send a delegation to the Capitol, and they have agreed to take this important next step," he said.



Paul has nurtured a close relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump and defended Trump after the president's Helsinki summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin last month.



After meeting with upper house members, Paul also met Monday with members of the Russian parliament's lower house, the State Duma.
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The following companies are subsidiares of Teledyne Technologies: Alia Corporation Inc, Bolt Technology Corp, Bowtech Products, CARIS, CDL do Brasil Equipamentos e Servicos Submarinos Sociedade Empresaria Ltda., CETAC Technologies, DALSA, Demo Systems, Detcon Holdco Inc., Ensambles de Precision S.A. de C.V., Falcon Analytical, Frontline Test Equipment, GMI Group Holdings Limited, Hafmynd ehf, Hanson Research Corp, IST Oldham Instruments India Private Limited, Industrial Control Machines, Intelek, Intelek Limited, Intelek Pension Trustees Limited, Intelek Properties Limited, LeCroy (Beijing) Trading Co. Ltd., LeCroy Corporation, Lidar Aviation Services Inc., Maple Imaging LLC, Micralyne Inc, Ocean Design Ltda., Oldham Instrument (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Oldham Simtronics SAS, Oldham-Winter GmbH, PDM Neptec, Reynolds Industries Limited, Rhombi Canada LP, Rhombi Holdings Limited, Rhombi Netherlands B.V., Rockwell Scientific Company, Simtronics AS, TDY Jersey Limited, Teledyne Advanced Pollution Instrumentation, Teledyne Australia Pty Ltd, Teledyne BlueView, Teledyne Bogatin Enterprises LLC, Teledyne Bowtech Limited, Teledyne Brown Engineering Inc., Teledyne C.M.L. Group Limited, Teledyne CARIS B.V., Teledyne CARIS Inc., Teledyne CARIS UK Ltd., Teledyne CARIS USA Inc., Teledyne CDL Inc., Teledyne CDL Limited, Teledyne Catalyst Enterprises Inc., Teledyne Computer Access Technology Corporation, Teledyne Controls LLC, Teledyne Cougar, Teledyne Czech s.r.o., Teledyne DALSA (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Teledyne DALSA Asia-Pacific Ltd., Teledyne DALSA B.V., Teledyne DALSA GmbH, Teledyne DALSA Inc., Teledyne DALSA Industrial Products Inc., Teledyne DALSA K.K., Teledyne DALSA Semiconductor Inc., Teledyne Dalsa, Teledyne Defense Electronics LLC, Teledyne Denmark A/S, Teledyne Detcon Inc., Teledyne Digital Imaging Inc., Teledyne Digital Imaging US Inc., Teledyne Energy Systems Inc., Teledyne Europe Holdings C.V., Teledyne France, Teledyne France SAS, Teledyne Gas Measurement Instruments Limited, Teledyne Gavia ehf., Teledyne Germany GmbH, Teledyne Hanson Research Inc., Teledyne ICM SA, Teledyne ICM SPRL, Teledyne Innovaciones Microelectronics S.L.U., Teledyne Instruments Inc., Teledyne Instruments Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Teledyne Japan Corporation, Teledyne Korea Ltd., Teledyne Labtech Limited, Teledyne LeCroy AB, Teledyne LeCroy Delaware LLC, Teledyne LeCroy GmbH, Teledyne LeCroy Inc., Teledyne LeCroy India Trading Private Ltd., Teledyne LeCroy Japan Corporation, Teledyne LeCroy Korea Ltd., Teledyne LeCroy OakGate Inc., Teledyne LeCroy S.A.R.L., Teledyne LeCroy S.R.L., Teledyne LeCroy SA, Teledyne LeCroy Singapore Pte. Ltd., Teledyne Limited, Teledyne Micralyne Inc., Teledyne Monitor Labs, Teledyne Monitor Labs P.R. Inc., Teledyne Netherlands B.V., Teledyne ODI, Teledyne Optech Inc., Teledyne Paradise Datacom Limited, Teledyne RD Instruments, Teledyne RD Technologies (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Teledyne RESON, Teledyne RESON A/S, Teledyne RESON B.V., Teledyne RESON GmbH, Teledyne RESON Holding B.V., Teledyne RESON Inc., Teledyne RESON Pte. Ltd., Teledyne RESON UK Limited, Teledyne RISI Inc., Teledyne Rad-icon Imaging Corp., Teledyne Redlake MASD LLC, Teledyne Reynolds Inc., Teledyne SG Brown Limited, Teledyne Scientific & Imaging LLC, Teledyne Scientific Imaging GmbH, Teledyne Scientific Imaging Limited, Teledyne Signal Processing Devices Sweden AB, Teledyne Singapore Private Limited, Teledyne TSS Limited, Teledyne Taiwan Company, Teledyne Technologies (Bermuda) Limited, Teledyne Technologies (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Teledyne Technologies International Corp., Teledyne Technologies Israel Ltd., Teledyne Tekmar Company, Teledyne UK Limited, Teledyne VariSystems, Teledyne VariSystems Inc., Teledyne Wireless LLC, Teledyne e2v, Teledyne e2v (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Teledyne e2v (Overseas) Holdings Limited, Teledyne e2v Asia Pacific Limited, Teledyne e2v Limited, Teledyne e2v Semiconductors SAS, and The Oceanscience Group Ltd..
I wrote a comment at ZH (Zero Hedge) and I liked it. That is what becomes of you when you post for 12 years straight.so I will post it here also. This is why I write so few comments around the web 

Ultimately you will all be censored

Twitter just banned me for life also, but what did I do! ~Sarc~

I am a bad boy in Govs eyes

I have spent many years being destroyed by the status quo and it gets tiring after awhile. I have always walked alone and still post alone after all these years. But everyone (readers and website acquaintances) scatters like rats when Big Gov comes after you.just like everyone will run and hide when ZH gets censored

Get ready for it. I am just a little site that at one time reached millions of unique views monthly and DC destroyed me and burned me to the ground. I am surviving as a site, because I moved the domain to Russia and the hosting to Iceland. That stopped the lawsuits and blocking from guilty until proven innocent

I started years and years ago on Blogger Blogspot and got banned there. Had domains on Godaddy and got destroyed there. Had hosting on HostGator and got banned there. I spent a year trying to survive with India hosting and got banned there. French hosting burned my ass. Russian hosting sucks but safe, dont try Canadian hosting and Iceland just saved me and WtR. By the way 1984 hosting is the name and you should understand what the 1984 is about

I have been posting for over ten years and no one gives a damn, you all run when the shit hits the fan

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North American Construction Group Ltd. provides mining and heavy construction services to the resource development and industrial construction sectors in Canada and the United States The company's Heavy Construction & Mining division offers constructability reviews, budgetary cost estimates, design-build construction, project management, contract mining, pre-stripping/pit pioneering, overburden removal and stockpile, muskeg removal and stockpile, site preparation, air strip construction, site dewatering/perimeter ditching, tailings and process pipelines, haulage and access road construction, tailings dam construction and densification, mechanically stabilized earth walls, dyke construction, and reclamation services. Its Equipment Maintenance Services division provides fuel and lube servicing, portable steaming, equipment inspections, parts and component supply, major overhauls and equipment refurbishment, onsite haul truck brake testing, onsite maintenance support, under carriage rebuild, machining, hose manufacturing, and technical support services, as well as welding, fabrication/repairs, weld certification, and inspection services. As of December 31, 2020, the company had a heavy equipment fleet of 626 units. The company was formerly known as North American Energy Partners Inc. and changed its name to North American Construction Group Ltd. in April 2018. The company was founded in 1953 and is headquartered in Acheson, Canada.

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Manulife Financial Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial products and services in Asia, Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through Wealth and Asset Management Businesses; Insurance and Annuity Products; And Corporate and Other segments. The Wealth and Asset Management Businesses segment provides mutual funds and exchange-traded funds, group retirement and savings products, and institutional asset management services through agents and brokers affiliated with the company, securities brokerage firms, and financial advisors pension plan consultants and banks. The Insurance and Annuity Products segment offers deposit and credit products; individual life, and individual and group long-term care insurance; and guaranteed and partially guaranteed annuity products through insurance agents, brokers, banks, financial planners, and direct marketing. The Corporate and Other segment is involved in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance businesses; and run-off reinsurance operations, including variable annuities, and accident and health. It also manages timberland and agricultural portfolios; and engages in insurance agency, portfolio and mutual fund management, mutual fund dealer, life and financial reinsurance, and fund management businesses. Additionally, the company holds and manages oil and gas properties; holds oil and gas royalties, and foreign bonds and equities; and provides investment management, counseling, advisory, and dealer services. Manulife Financial Corporation was incorporated in 1887 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

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Infineon Technologies AG designs, develops, manufactures, and markets semiconductors and related system solutions worldwide. Its Automotive segment offers automotive microcontrollers; 3D ToF, magnetic, and pressure sensors; discrete power semiconductors; IGBT modules; industrial microcontrollers; power and radar sensor integrated circuits (ICs); transceivers; silicon carbide diodes, MOSEFTs, and modules; and voltage regulators for use in assistance and safety systems, comfort electronics, infotainment, powertrain, and security products. The company's Industrial Power Control segment provides bare dies, discrete IGBTs, driver ICs, SIC diodes, and IGBT modules and stacks for home appliances, industrial drives, industrial power supplies, industrial robotics, industrial vehicles, and traction, as well as for energy generation, storage, and transmission. Its Power & Sensor Systems segment offers gas sensors, MEMS microphones, and pressure sensors chips; discrete low-voltage, mid-voltage, and high-voltage power MOSFETs; control ICs; customized chips; GaN power switches; GPS low-noise amplifiers; low-voltage and high-voltage driver ICs; radar sensor ICs; RF antenna switches and power transistors; transient voltage suppressor diodes; and USB controllers for use in audio amplifiers, automotive electronics, BLDC motors, cellular communications infrastructure, electric vehicle charging stations, human machine interaction, high-reliability components, Internet of Things, LED and conventional lighting systems, mobile devices, and power management applications. The company's Connected Secure Systems segment provides connectivity solutions, embedded security controllers, microcontrollers, and security controllers for authentication, automotive, consumer electronics, government identification document, Internet of Things, mobile communication, payment system, ticketing, access control, and trusted computing applications. Infineon Technologies AG is headquartered in Munich, Germany.

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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

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University Bancorp, Inc. is a bank holding company, which engages in the provision of banking services through its subsidiary. It offers acceptance of checking, savings, and time deposits. It operates through the following segments: The Bank and Midwest; University Lending Group, LLC (ULG); UIF Corporation (UIF); and Holding Company. The The Bank and Midwest segment includes community banking and servicing. The ULG segment focuses on mortgage banking. The UIF segment covers faith-based lending. The company was founded in 1890 and is headquartered in Ann Arbor, MI.

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DTE Energy Co. operates as a diversified energy company, which engages in the provision of electricity and natural gas sales, distribution and storage services. It operates through the following segments: Electric, Gas, Non-Utility Operations, and Corporate & Other. The Electric segment engages in the generation, purchase, distribution and sale of electricity to residential, commercial and industrial customers in south-eastern Michigan. The Gas segment engages in the purchase, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of natural gas to residential, commercial and industrial customers throughout Michigan and the sale of storage and transportation capacity. The Non-Utility Operations segment engages in gas storage and pipelines, power and industrial projects, and energy trading. The Corporate & Other includes various holding company activities, holds certain non-utility debt, and holds energy-related investments. The company was founded in January 1995 and is headquartered in Detroit, MI.

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The following companies are subsidiares of Sysco: 2234829 Alberta ULC, 2234842 Alberta ULC, A. M. Briggs Inc., A.M. Briggs, Almacen Fiscal Frionet Caldera S.A., Almacen Fiscal Frionet Limon S.A., Appert's Foodservice, Arnotts (Fruit) Limited, Asian Foods, Bahamas Food Holdings Limited, Bahamas Food Services Limited, Brake Bros, Brake Bros Foodservice Ireland Limited, Brake Bros. Foodservice Limited, Brake Bros. Holding I Limited, Brake Bros. Ltd., Brakes Foodservice NI Limited, Buchy Food Service, Buckhead Beef Co., Buckhead Meat & Seafood of Houston Inc., Buckhead Meat Company, Buckhead Meat Midwest Inc., Buckhead Meat of Dallas Inc., Buckhead Meat of Denver Inc., Buckhead Meat of San Antonio LP, Buzztable Inc., CAKE Corporation, Central Seafood Co., Christys Wine & Spirits Limited, Clafra Aktiebolag, Colorado Boxed Beef Co - Specialty meat-cutting division, Corporacion Frionet Sociedad Anonima, Crossgar Foodservice, Crossgar Foodservice Limited, Crown I Enterprises Inc., Cucina Acquisitions (UK) Limited, Cucina Finance (UK) Limited, Cucina French Holdings Limited, Cucina Fresh Finance Limited, Cucina Fresh Investments Limited, Cucina Lux Investments Limited, Curleys Quality Foods Limited (Third Party), Davigel Belgilux S.A., Davigel Espana S.A., Desert Meats & Provisions, Distagro, Doerle Food Service, Doughtie's Foods Inc., Dust Bowl City LLC, Eko Fagel Fisk o mittemellan AB, Enclave Insurance Company, Enclave Parkway Association Inc., Enclave Properties LLC, European Imports, European Imports Inc., Figg Inc., Freedman Meats, Freedman Meats Inc., Freedman-KB Inc., Fresh Direct (UK) Limited, Fresh Direct Group Limited, Fresh Direct Limited, Fresh Holdings Limited, FreshPoint, FreshPoint Arizona Inc., FreshPoint Atlanta Inc., FreshPoint California Inc., FreshPoint Central California Inc., FreshPoint Central Florida Inc., FreshPoint Connecticut LLC, FreshPoint Dallas Inc., FreshPoint Denver Inc., FreshPoint Hawaii LLC, FreshPoint Inc., FreshPoint Las Vegas Inc., FreshPoint North Carolina Inc., FreshPoint North Florida Inc., FreshPoint Oklahoma City LLC, FreshPoint Pompano Real Estate LLC, FreshPoint Puerto Rico LLC, FreshPoint San Francisco Inc., FreshPoint South Florida Inc., FreshPoint South Texas Inc., FreshPoint Southern California Inc., FreshPoint Tomato LLC, FreshPoint Vancouver Ltd., Freshfayre Limited, Fruktservice i Helsingborg AB, GHS Classic Drinks Limited, Gilchrist & Soames Inc., Gilchrist & Soames UK Limited, Guest Packaging LLC, Guest Supply, Guest Supply Asia Limited, Guest Supply Singapore Pte. Ltd., International Food Group, Isakssons Frukt & Gront AB, J & M Wholesale Meats, J. Kings Food Service Professionals, J. Kings Food Service Professionals Inc., Kent Frozen Foods, Les Ateliers Du Gout, Liquid Assets Limited, M&J Seafood Holdings Limited, M&J Seafood Limited, Manchester Mills LLC, Mayca Autoservicio S.A., Mayca Distribuidores S.A., Menigo Foodservice AB, Mitshim Etatu Supply LP, Newport Meat Company, Newport Meat Northern California Inc., Newport Meat Pacific Northwest Inc., Newport Meat Southern California Inc., Newport Meat of Nevada Inc., North Star Holding Corporation, North Star Seafood, North Star Seafood Acquisition Corporation, North Star Seafood LLC, PFS de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Palisades Ranch Inc., Pallas Foods, Pallas Foods Farm Fresh Unlimited Company, Pallas Foods Unlimited Company, Pauleys Produce Limited, Promotora del Servicios S.A. de C.V., Restaurangakdemien AB, Restaurant of Tomorrow Inc., Rohan Viandes Elaboration SAS, SMS Bermuda Holdings, SMS GPC International Limited, SMS GPC International Resources Limited, SMS Global Holdings S.a.r.l., SMS International Resources Ireland Unlimited Company, SMS Lux Holdings LLC, SOTF LLC, SYY Netherlands C.V., SYY Panama S. de R.L., Serca Foodservice, Servicestyckarna I Johannes AB, Servicios Ameriserve S.A. de C.V., Shenzhen Guest Supply Trading Co. Limited, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) Bianchi Montegut, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) De Boiseau, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) De Garcelles, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) J.D. Lanjouan, Societe Civile Immobiliere (SCI) Le Dauphin, Specialty Meat Holdings LLC, Stockflag Limited, Stockholms Fiskauktion AB, Supplies on the Fly, Sysco Albany LLC, Sysco Asian Foods Inc., Sysco Atlanta LLC, Sysco Autoservicio S.A., Sysco Baltimore LLC, Sysco Baraboo LLC, Sysco Bermuda Partners L.P., Sysco Boston LLC, Sysco Canada Holdings S.a.r.l., Sysco Canada Inc., Sysco Central Alabama LLC, Sysco Central California Inc., Sysco Central Florida Inc., Sysco Central Illinois Inc., Sysco Central Pennsylvania LLC, Sysco Charlotte LLC, Sysco Chicago Inc., Sysco Cincinnati LLC, Sysco Cleveland Inc., Sysco Columbia LLC, Sysco Connecticut LLC, Sysco Corporation, Sysco Corporation Director's Deferred Compensation Plan Trust, Sysco Corporation Employee's 401(k) Plan Trust, Sysco Corporation Executive Deferred Compensation Plan Trust, Sysco Corporation Good Government Committee Inc., Sysco Corporation Retirement Trust, Sysco Corporation Supplemental Executive Retirement Trust, Sysco Corporation Supplemental Unemployment Benefits Plan Trust, Sysco Detroit LLC, Sysco Disaster Relief Foundation Inc., Sysco EI VI S. s.r.l., Sysco EU II S.a.r.l., Sysco EU III S.a.r.l., Sysco EU IV Capital Unlimited Company, Sysco EU IV S. s.r.l.., Sysco EU V S. s.r.l., Sysco Eastern Maryland LLC, Sysco Eastern Wisconsin LLC, Sysco Foundation Inc., Sysco France Holding SAS, Sysco France SAS, Sysco George Town II LLC, Sysco George Town Limited S. s.r.l.., Sysco Global Finance LLC, Sysco Global Finance LLP, Sysco Global Holdings B.V., Sysco Global Resources LLC, Sysco Global Services LLC, Sysco Grand Cayman Company, Sysco Grand Cayman II Company, Sysco Grand Cayman III Company, Sysco Grand Rapids LLC, Sysco Guernsey Limited, Sysco Guest Supply Canada Inc., Sysco Guest Supply Europe Goods Wholesalers LLC, Sysco Guest Supply Europe Limited, Sysco Guest Supply LLC, Sysco Gulf Coast LLC, Sysco Hampton Roads Inc., Sysco Hawaii Inc., Sysco Holdings II LLC, Sysco Holdings LLC, Sysco Indianapolis LLC, Sysco International Food Group Inc., Sysco International Inc., Sysco Iowa Inc., Sysco Jackson LLC, Sysco Jacksonville Inc., Sysco Kansas City Inc., Sysco Knoxville LLC, Sysco Labs Europe Limited, Sysco Labs Pvt. Ltd., Sysco Leasing LLC, Sysco Lincoln Inc., Sysco Lincoln Transportation Company Inc., Sysco Long Island LLC, Sysco Los Angeles Inc., Sysco Louisville Inc., Sysco Memphis LLC, Sysco Merchandising and Supply Chain Services Canada Inc., Sysco Merchandising and Supply Chain Services Inc., Sysco Metro New York LLC, Sysco Minnesota Inc., Sysco Montana Inc., Sysco Nashville LLC, Sysco Netherlands Partners LLC, Sysco North Central Florida Inc., Sysco North Dakota Inc., Sysco Northern New England Inc., Sysco Philadelphia LLC, Sysco Pittsburgh LLC, Sysco Portland Inc., Sysco Raleigh LLC, Sysco Resources Services LLC, Sysco Riverside Inc., Sysco Sacramento Inc., Sysco San Diego Inc., Sysco San Francisco Inc., Sysco Seattle Inc., Sysco South Florida Inc., Sysco Southeast Florida LLC, Sysco Spain Holdings SLU, Sysco Spokane Inc., Sysco St. Louis LLC, Sysco Syracuse LLC, Sysco Technologies Cayman Ltd., Sysco Technologies LLC, Sysco UK Holdings Limited, Sysco UK Limited, Sysco UK Partners LLP, Sysco USA I Inc., Sysco USA II LLC, Sysco USA III LLC, Sysco Ventura Inc., Sysco Ventures Inc., Sysco Virginia LLC, Sysco West Coast Florida Inc., Sysco Western Minnesota Inc., The SYGMA Network Inc., Upsys, Victua SAS, Walker Foods Inc., Waugh Foods, and Wild Harvest Limited.
With an early rainstorm clearing to leave calm, mild conditions it would have been tempting to think the 250 triathletes on the start list for the 2018 Isklar Norseman Xtreme Triathlon were in for a (relatively) kind day in the mountains  well, as kind as it can get at a race we ranked as 7th toughest Iron in the world. Norseman is a long day up some very big mountains though  so its never a good idea to try and second-guess what you might be about to experience

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220 Triathlon were in Norway this year to follow the race, with Editor Helen Webster helping present the live coverage (if you missed it, watch the full 13 hour broadcast by following the link here) and in the days leading up to the event, most of the talk was about one thing  the unusually warm water conditions. Usually maxing out at a cold 14 degrees C on race day, a hot early summer added to a lack of melting snow around race time had meant the fjord was a balmy(ish) 16-17 degrees by race day.

Early Start

Boarding a car ferry at 4am in the pitch black is still a daunting experience though and as the athletes sat waiting for the ferry to reach the starting point 3.8km from Eidfjord, there was a quiet contemplation amongst the competitors who sat quietly stretching, meditating, or making last-minute adjustments to their wetsuits. Many were wearing thermal suits and full neoprene balaclavas and socks to help their bodies cope with up to two hours in the still less-than-warm black waters.

Taking that ferry jump this year were British athletes including 3x Kona finisher and 2018 Celtman champ Harry Wiltshire, 2017 Celtman winner Chris Sterling and Swissman 2018 winner Flora Colledge. They faced some of the toughest competition though, as in the mens race two of the best Norseman athletes in the world were lining up: current record holder Lars Christian Vold and 2x previous winner Allan Hovda, both Norwegians familiar with the tough and technical course. In the womens race, Norwegian pro triathlete Mette Pettersen Moe was sure to be competitive, alongside Finnish racer Heini Hartikainen and American pro and winner of Alaskaman Morgan Chaffin.

After a hosing down on the ferry to acclimatise to the water temperatures and avoid cold water shock, the athletes jumped into the pitch black water to swim to the race start line, marked by kayaks. Their goal? To follow the 3.8km course around the shore and spot a bonfire burning on the shore back in Eidfjord (a very Viking-esque course marker!) that would guide them to the solitary course buoy where they would turn left and come in to T2.

First out of the water was Norwegian Eirik Ravnan in 00:48:08. A former competitive swimmer with 13 gold medals under his belt he didnt have a clear break though, as GB Pro Harry Wiltshire, also an extremely strong swimmer and winner of this years Celtman race was just seconds after him. Ravnan strengthened his advantage with a super-fast transition though and went on to open up a small gap from Wiltshire as they rode through the tunnels and on to the Old Road, up into misty rainy conditions on the wide Hardanger Plateau. In the womens race Mette Petterson Moe exited first in 00:53:53, less than 5 minutes after the leaders.

Into the Mountains

Above image by Torgeir Storflor Moen / nxtri.com

The Norseman bike route is infamously tough though and as Wiltshire told us in a pre-race interview: This isnt a race won or lost in the swim. Its all about whos still got enough left in the tank at Zombie Hill. There were plenty of hills to take in before the final run up Zombie Hill though (more on that later) as five mountains culminating in the toughest of them all  Immingfell  needed to be navigated first in conditions that were getting increasingly foggy and slippery.

Ravnan kept the lead for the first part of the course, but the expertise of previous champions Vold and Hovda soon came through as they broke through to the front of the course and started to show what makes them so utterly unbeatable on a bike course that can quickly chew you up and spit you out if you dont pace it accurately. They describe this race as the one where you can find yourself all alone on a small bike on top of a big mountain plateau and watching the athletes string out alongs the course in the mountain fog, it quickly became apparent why. The landscapes are just huge in this race, although the views probably werent enough to distract those at the front of the race chasing the win.

Anything is possible at Norseman though and the sun broke though on the bike course, leaving athletes who had prepared for typically windy, cold and wet Norseman conditions baking in the sweltering heat. With Vold in the lead, the two athletes arrived at the 500m climb to Immingfell looking focussed. In an interview before the race as part of a panel interview led by 220 [follow link here], Allan Hovda revealed that himself and Lars Christian Vold had trained together on the course a couple of weeks previously and hed identified that Vold had the edge on the technical descent at Immingfell, so hed spent some extra time training on those roads. It really showed during the race too, as both athletes swept down the descent tucked down on their tri-bikes crossbars, aiming to get as aero as possible as they navigated the technical hairpins and treacherous descent.

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Zombie Running

Vold entered T2 first, but with Hovda hot on his heels it was clear we were in for a tense finish in the mountains. The Norseman run route is famous for its brutality. The first 25km are flat and follow a tarmac road, then after that you start to gradually climb with the infamous Gaustatoppen mountain peak  Zombie Hill  rising up into the distance ahead of you like some great monster, as if to taunt you with the distance you have left to climb.
The following companies are subsidiares of Caterpillar: Advanced Tri-Gen Power Systems LLC, Anchor Coupling Inc., Asia Power Systems (Tianjin) Ltd., AsiaTrak (Tianjin) Ltd., Banco Caterpillar S.A., Berg Propulsion International Pte Ltd., Bucyrus, Bucyrus Australia Surface Pty. Ltd., Bucyrus Europe Holdings Ltd., Bucyrus Europe Limited, Bucyrus International (Chile) Limitada, Bucyrus International (Peru) S.A., Bucyrus Mining Australia Pty. Ltd., Bucyrus Mining China LLC, Bucyrus UK Limited, Cat Rental Kyushu LLC, Caterpillar (Africa) (Proprietary) Limited, Caterpillar (China) Financial Leasing Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (China) Investment Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (China) Machinery Components Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (HK) Limited, Caterpillar (Huainan) Machinery Service Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Langfang) Mining Equipment Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Luxembourg) Investment Co. S.a r.l., Caterpillar (NI) Limited, Caterpillar (Newberry) LLC, Caterpillar (Qingzhou) Ltd., Caterpillar (Shanghai) Trading Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Suzhou) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Suzhou) Logistics Co. Ltd., Caterpillar (Thailand) Limited, Caterpillar (U.K.) Limited, Caterpillar (Wujiang) Ltd., Caterpillar (Xuzhou) Ltd., Caterpillar (Zhengzhou) Ltd., Caterpillar Acquisition Holding Corp., Caterpillar Americas C.V., Caterpillar Americas Co., Caterpillar Americas Funding Inc., Caterpillar Americas Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Asia Limited, Caterpillar Asia Pacific L.P., Caterpillar Asia Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Asset Intelligence LLC, Caterpillar Belgium S.A., Caterpillar Brasil Comercio de Maquinas e Pecas Ltda., Caterpillar Brasil Ltda., Caterpillar Brazil LLC, Caterpillar Castings Kiel GmbH, Caterpillar Centro de Formacion S.L., Caterpillar China Limited, Caterpillar Commercial Australia Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Commercial LLC, Caterpillar Commercial Northern Europe Limited, Caterpillar Commercial S.A., Caterpillar Commercial S.A.R.L., Caterpillar Commercial Services S.A.R.L., Caterpillar Communications LLC, Caterpillar Corporativo Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Cote DIvoire, Caterpillar Credito S.A. de C.V. SOFOM E.N.R., Caterpillar DC Pension Trust Limited, Caterpillar Digital Services & Solutions SARL, Caterpillar Distribution International LLC, Caterpillar Distribution Services Europe B.V.B.A., Caterpillar East Real Estate Holding Ltd., Caterpillar Emissions Solutions Inc., Caterpillar Energy Solutions Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Energy Solutions GmbH, Caterpillar Energy Solutions Inc., Caterpillar Energy Solutions S.A., Caterpillar Energy System Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Engine Systems Inc., Caterpillar Equipos Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Eurasia LLC, Caterpillar FS (QFC) LLC, Caterpillar Finance France S.A., Caterpillar Finance Kabushiki Kaisha, Caterpillar Financial Acquisition Funding LLC, Caterpillar Financial Aftermarket Solutions Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Australia Leasing Pty Limited, Caterpillar Financial Australia Limited, Caterpillar Financial Commercial Account Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Corporacion Financiera S.A. E.F.C., Caterpillar Financial Dealer Funding LLC, Caterpillar Financial Funding Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Kazakhstan Limited Liability Partnership, Caterpillar Financial Leasing (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Financial New Zealand Limited, Caterpillar Financial Nordic Services AB, Caterpillar Financial Nova Scotia Corporation, Caterpillar Financial OOO, Caterpillar Financial Receivables Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Renting S.A., Caterpillar Financial SARL, Caterpillar Financial Services (Dubai) Limited, Caterpillar Financial Services (Ireland) plc, Caterpillar Financial Services (UK) Limited, Caterpillar Financial Services Argentina S.A., Caterpillar Financial Services Asia Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Financial Services Belgium S.P.R.L., Caterpillar Financial Services CR s.r.o., Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation, Caterpillar Financial Services GmbH, Caterpillar Financial Services India Private Limited, Caterpillar Financial Services Leasing ULC, Caterpillar Financial Services Limited Les Services Financiers Caterpillar Limitee, Caterpillar Financial Services Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Caterpillar Financial Services Netherlands B.V., Caterpillar Financial Services Norway AS, Caterpillar Financial Services Philippines Inc., Caterpillar Financial Services Poland Sp. z o.o., Caterpillar Financial Services South Africa (Pty) Limited, Caterpillar Financial UK Acquisition Funding Partners, Caterpillar Financial Ukraine LLC, Caterpillar Fluid Systems S.r.l., Caterpillar Fomento Comercial Ltda., Caterpillar Forest Products Inc., Caterpillar France S.A.S., Caterpillar GB L.L.C., Caterpillar Global Investments S.a r.l., Caterpillar Global Mining America LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Equipamentos De Mineracao do Brasil Ltda., Caterpillar Global Mining Equipment LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Europe GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining Expanded Products Pty Ltd, Caterpillar Global Mining Germany Holdings GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining HMS GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining Holdings GmbH, Caterpillar Global Mining Hong Kong AFC Manufacturing Holding Co. Limited, Caterpillar Global Mining Hong Kong Limited, Caterpillar Global Mining LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Mexico LLC, Caterpillar Global Mining Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Global Mining SARL, Caterpillar Global Mining U.S. Parts LLC, Caterpillar Global Services LLC, Caterpillar Group Services S.A., Caterpillar Holding (France) S.A.S., Caterpillar Holding Germany GmbH, Caterpillar Holdings Australia Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Hungary Components Manufacturing Ltd., Caterpillar Hydraulics Italia S.r.l., Caterpillar IPX LLC, Caterpillar IRB LLC, Caterpillar Impact Products Limited, Caterpillar India Private Limited, Caterpillar Industrial Inc., Caterpillar Industrias Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Industries (Pty) Ltd, Caterpillar Insurance Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Insurance Company, Caterpillar Insurance Holdings Inc., Caterpillar Insurance Services Corporation, Caterpillar International Finance Designated Activity Company, Caterpillar International Finance Luxembourg Holding S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Finance Luxembourg S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Holding S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Luxembourg I S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Luxembourg II S. a r.l., Caterpillar International Product SARL, Caterpillar International Services Corporation, Caterpillar International Services del Peru S.A., Caterpillar Investment Limited, Caterpillar Investment One SARL, Caterpillar Investment Two SARL, Caterpillar Investments, Caterpillar Japan LLC, Caterpillar Latin America Services S.R.L., Caterpillar Latin America Services de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Latin America Services de Panama S. de R.L., Caterpillar Latin America Servicios de Chile Limitada, Caterpillar Latin America Support Services S. DE R.L., Caterpillar Leasing (Thailand) Limited, Caterpillar Leasing Chile S.A., Caterpillar Leasing GmbH (Leipzig), Caterpillar Leasing Operativo Limitada, Caterpillar Life Insurance Company, Caterpillar Logistics (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Logistics (UK) Limited, Caterpillar Logistics Inc., Caterpillar Logistics ML Services France S.A.S., Caterpillar Logistics Services China Limited, Caterpillar Luxembourg Group S.ar.l., Caterpillar Luxembourg LLC, Caterpillar Luxembourg S.a r.l., Caterpillar Machinery Nantong Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Marine Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Marine Asset Intelligence, Caterpillar Marine Power UK Limited, Caterpillar Marine Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Maroc SARL, Caterpillar Materiels Routiers SAS, Caterpillar Mexico LLC, Caterpillar Mexico S.A. de C.V., Caterpillar Mining Canada ULC, Caterpillar Mining Chile Servicios Limitada, Caterpillar Motoren (Guangdong) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Motoren GmbH & Co. KG, Caterpillar Motoren Henstedt-Ulzburg GmbH, Caterpillar Motoren Rostock GmbH, Caterpillar Motoren Verwaltungs-GmbH, Caterpillar Netherlands Holding B.V., Caterpillar North America C.V., Caterpillar Operator Training Ltd., Caterpillar Overseas Credit Corporation SARL, Caterpillar Overseas Investment Holding SARL, Caterpillar Overseas Limited, Caterpillar Overseas SARL, Caterpillar Panama Services S.A., Caterpillar Paving Products Inc., Caterpillar Paving Products Xuzhou Ltd., Caterpillar Pension Trust Limited, Caterpillar Poland Sp. z o.o., Caterpillar Power Generation Systems (Bangladesh) Limited, Caterpillar Power Generation Systems L.L.C., Caterpillar Power Systems Inc., Caterpillar Power Ventures International Ltd., Caterpillar Precision Seals Korea, Caterpillar Prodotti Stradali S.r.l., Caterpillar Product Services Corporation, Caterpillar Propulsion AB, Caterpillar Propulsion International Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Propulsion Italy S.R.L., Caterpillar Propulsion Namibia (Proprietary) Limited, Caterpillar Propulsion Production AB, Caterpillar Propulsion Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar Propulsion Singapore Pte. Ltd., Caterpillar R&D Center (China) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Ramos Arizpe LLC, Caterpillar Ramos Arizpe S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Ramos Arizpe Servicios S.A. de C.V., Caterpillar Reman Powertrain Indiana LLC, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Drivetrain LLC, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Renting France S.A.S., Caterpillar Reynosa S.A. de C.V., Caterpillar SARL, Caterpillar Services Germany GmbH, Caterpillar Servicios Limitada, Caterpillar Servicios Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Servizi Italia Srl, Caterpillar Shrewsbury Limited, Caterpillar Skinningrove Limited, Caterpillar Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd., Caterpillar Special Services Belgium S.P.R.L., Caterpillar Switchgear Americas LLC, Caterpillar Switchgear Holding Inc., Caterpillar Tianjin Ltd., Caterpillar Torreon S. de R.L. de C.V., Caterpillar Tosno L.L.C., Caterpillar Transmissions France S.A.R.L., Caterpillar Tunneling Canada Holdings Ltd., Caterpillar Tunnelling Canada Corporation, Caterpillar Tunnelling Europe Limited, Caterpillar UK Employee Trust Limited, Caterpillar UK Engines Company Limited, Caterpillar UK Group Limited, Caterpillar UK Holdings Limited, Caterpillar Undercarriage (Xuzhou) Co. Ltd., Caterpillar Underground Mining Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar Used Equipment Services Inc., Caterpillar Venture Capital Inc., Caterpillar Work Tools B.V., Caterpillar Work Tools Inc., Caterpillar World Trading Corporation, Caterpillar Xuzhou, Caterpillar of Australia Pty. Ltd., Caterpillar of Canada Corporation, Caterpillar of Delaware Inc., Centre de Distribution de Wallonie SPRL, CleanAir Systems, Downer Freight Rail, ECM Railway Evolution Romania s.r.l., ECM S.p.A., EDC European Excavator Design Center GmbH, EMC Holding Corp., EMD International Holdings Inc., ERA Information & Entertainment (BVI) Limited, ERA Mining Machinery Limited, Electro-Motive Diesel Limited, Electro-Motive Locomotive Technologies LLC, Electro-Motive Technical Consulting Co. (Beijing) Ltd., Energy Services International Limited, Equipos de Acuna S.A. de C.V., Eurenov S.A.S., F. G. Wilson (Proprietary) Limited, F. Perkins Limited, FG Wilson (Engineering) Limited, GB Holdco (China) Inc., GFCM Comercial Mexico S.A. de C.V. SOFOM E.N.R., GFCM Servicios S.A. de C.V., Gremada Industries - Assets, Hong Kong Siwei Holdings Limited, Inmobiliaria Conek S.A. de C.V., JCS Co., Kemper Valve & Fittings Corp., Leo Inc., Locomotive Demand Power Pty Ltd., Locomotoras Progress Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Lovat, M2M Data Corporation, MGE Equipamentos & Servicos Ferroviarios, MWM, MWM Austria GmbH, MWM Benelux B.V., MWM Energy Australia Pty Ltd, MWM France S.A.S, MWM Real Estate GmbH, MaK Americas Inc., MaK Americas Inc. (Canada), Magnum Power Products LLC, Marble, Maschinenbau Kiel GmbH, Mec-Track S.r.l., Metalmark Financial Services Limited, Motoren Steffens GmbH, Nippon Caterpillar LLC, P. T. Solar Services Indonesia, PT Caterpillar Finance Indonesia, PT. Bucyrus Indonesia, PT. Caterpillar Indonesia, PT. Caterpillar Indonesia Batam, PT. Caterpillar Remanufacturing Indonesia, Perkins Engines, Perkins Engines (Asia Pacific) Pte Ltd, Perkins Engines Group Limited, Perkins Engines Inc., Perkins Group Limited, Perkins Holdings Limited LLC, Perkins India Private Limited, Perkins International Inc., Perkins Japan LLC, Perkins Limited, Perkins Machinery (Changshu) Co. Ltd., Perkins Motores do Brasil Ltda., Perkins Power Systems Technology (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., Perkins Small Engines (Wuxi) Co. Ltd., Perkins Small Engines LLC, Perkins Small Engines Limited, Perkins Technology Inc., Progress Metal Reclamation Company, Progress Rail Arabia Limited Company, Progress Rail Australia Pty Ltd, Progress Rail Canada Corporation, Progress Rail Equipamentos e Servicos Ferroviarios do Brasil Ltda., Progress Rail Equipment Leasing Corporation, Progress Rail Holdings Inc., Progress Rail Innovations Private Limited, Progress Rail Inspection & Information Systems GmbH, Progress Rail Inspection & Information Systems S.r.l., Progress Rail International Corp., Progress Rail Leasing Canada Corporation, Progress Rail Leasing Corporation, Progress Rail Leasing de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Progress Rail Locomotivas (do Brasil) Ltda., Progress Rail Locomotive Canada Co., Progress Rail Locomotive Chile SpA, Progress Rail Locomotive Inc., Progress Rail Maintenance de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Progress Rail Manufacturing Corporation, Progress Rail Raceland Corporation, Progress Rail Rocklin Corporation, Progress Rail SA Proprietary Limited, Progress Rail Services Corporation, Progress Rail Services Holdings Corp., Progress Rail Services LLC, Progress Rail Services UK Limited, Progress Rail Switching Services LLC, Progress Rail Transcanada Corporation, Progress Rail Welding Corporation, Progress Rail Wildwood LLC, Progress Rail de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Pyroban Group, Pyroban Group, Pyrrha Investments B.V., Pyrrha Investments Limited, S&L Railroad LLC, SCM Singapore Holdings Pte. Ltd., SPL Software Alliance LLC, Sabre Engines, Servicios de Turbinas Solar S. de R.L. de C.V., Shandong SEM Machinery Co. Ltd., Solar Turbines, Solar Turbines, Solar Turbines (Beijing) Trading Services Co. Ltd., Solar Turbines (Thailand) Ltd., Solar Turbines CIS Limited Liability Company, Solar Turbines Canada Ltd./Ltee., Solar Turbines Central Asia Limited Liability Partnership, Solar Turbines EAME s.r.o., Solar Turbines Egypt Limited Liability Company, Solar Turbines Europe S.A., Solar Turbines India Private Limited, Solar Turbines International Company, Solar Turbines Italy S.R.L., Solar Turbines Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Solar Turbines Middle East Limited, Solar Turbines New Zealand Limited, Solar Turbines Saudi Arabia Limited, Solar Turbines Services Company, Solar Turbines Services Nigeria Limited, Solar Turbines Services of Argentina S.R.L., Solar Turbines Switzerland Sagl, Solar Turbines Trinidad & Tobago Limited, Solar Turbines West-Africa SARL, Tangshan DBT Machinery Co. Ltd., Tecnologia Modificada S.A. de C.V., Towmotor Corporation, Traction & Mining Motor Repairs Pty Ltd, Turbinas Solar S.A. de C.V., Turbinas Solar de Colombia S.A., Turbinas Solar de Venezuela C.A., Turbo Tecnologia de Reparaciones S.A. de C.V., Turbomach, Turbomach Endustriyel Gaz Turbinleri Sanayi Ve Ticaret Limited, Turbomach France SARL, Turbomach GmbH, Turbomach Netherlands B.V., Turbomach Pakistan (Private) Limited, Turbomach S.A. Unipersonal, Turbomach Sp. Z o.o., Turner Powertrain Systems Limited, UK Hose Assembly Limited, Underground Imaging Technologies Inc, United Industries LLC, VALA Inc., Vasky Energy Ltd., Wealdstone Engineering, Weir - Oil & Gas Division, West Virginia Auto Shredding Inc., Western Gear Machinery LLC, Wetland Sustainability Fund I LLC, Williams Technologies, Yard Club, Zhengzhou Siwei Mechanical and Electrical Equipment Sales Co. Ltd., and okyo Rental Ltd..
CoreLogic, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides property information, insight, analytics, and data-enabled solutions in North America, Western Europe, and the Asia Pacific. The company operates in two segments, Property Intelligence & Risk Management Solutions (PIRM) and Underwriting & Workflow Solutions (UWS). The PIRM segment combines property information, mortgage information, and consumer information to deliver housing market and property-level insights, predictive analytics, and risk management capabilities. It also offers proprietary technology and software platforms to access, automate, or track the information and assist its clients with decision-making and compliance tools in the real estate and insurance industries. This segment primarily serves commercial banks, mortgage lenders and brokers, investment banks, fixed-income investors, real estate agents, MLS companies, property and casualty insurance companies, title insurance companies, government agencies, and government-sponsored enterprises. The UWS segment combines property, mortgage, and consumer information to provide comprehensive mortgage origination and monitoring solutions, including underwriting-related solutions, and data-enabled valuations and appraisals. This segment also provides proprietary technology and software platforms to access, automate, or track the information and assist its clients with vetting and onboarding prospects, and meeting compliance regulations, as well as understanding, evaluating, monitoring property values. It primarily serves mortgage lenders and servicers, mortgage brokers, credit unions, commercial banks, fixed-income investors, government agencies, and property and casualty insurance companies. The company was formerly known as The First American Corporation and changed its name to CoreLogic, Inc. in June 2010. CoreLogic, Inc. was incorporated in 1894 and is headquartered in Irvine, California.

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The following companies are subsidiares of Abbott Laboratories: 3A Nutrition (Vietnam) Company Limited, ABON Biopharm (Hangzhou) Co. Ltd., AGA Medical Belgium, AGA Medical Corporation, AGA Medical Holdings Inc., ALR Holdings, AML Medical LLC, APK Advanced Medical Technologies LLC, ATS Bermuda Holdings Limited, ATS Laboratories Inc., Abbott, Abbott (Jiaxing) Nutrition Co. Ltd., Abbott (UK) Finance Limited, Abbott (UK) Holdings Limited, Abbott AG, Abbott Asia Holdings Limited, Abbott Asia Investments Limited, Abbott Australasia Holdings Limited, Abbott Australasia Pty Ltd, Abbott B.V., Abbott Bahamas Overseas Businesses Corporation, Abbott Belgian Investments, Abbott Bermuda Holding Ltd., Abbott Biologicals B.V., Abbott Biologicals LLC, Abbott Bulgaria Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Capital India Limited, Abbott Cardiovascular Inc., Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc., Abbott Delaware LLC, Abbott Diabetes Care Inc., Abbott Diabetes Care Limited, Abbott Diabetes Care Sales Corporation, Abbott Diagnostics GmbH, Abbott Diagnostics International Ltd., Abbott Diagnostics Technologies AS, Abbott Doral Investments S.L., Abbott Equity Holdings Unlimited, Abbott Equity Investments LLC, Abbott Established Products Holdings (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Finance Company SA, Abbott Financial Holdings SRL, Abbott France S.A.S., Abbott Fund Tanzania Limited, Abbott Gesellschaft m.b.H., Abbott GmbH & Co. KG, Abbott Health Products LLC, Abbott Healthcare (Puerto Rico) Ltd., Abbott Healthcare B.V., Abbott Healthcare Costa Rica S.A., Abbott Healthcare LLC, Abbott Healthcare Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Healthcare Private Limited, Abbott Healthcare Products B.V., Abbott Healthcare Products Ltd, Abbott Holding (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Holding GmbH, Abbott Holding Subsidiary (Gibraltar) Limited, Abbott Holding Subsidiary (Gibraltar) Limited Luxembourg S.C.S., Abbott Holdings B.V., Abbott Holdings LLC, Abbott Holdings Limited, Abbott Holdings Poland Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Hungary Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Abbott Iberian Investments (2) Limited, Abbott Iberian Investments Limited, Abbott India Limited, Abbott Informatics Asia Pacific Limited, Abbott Informatics Canada Inc, Abbott Informatics Corporation, Abbott Informatics Europe Limited, Abbott Informatics France, Abbott Informatics Germany GmbH, Abbott Informatics Netherlands B.V., Abbott Informatics Singapore Pte. Limited, Abbott Informatics Spain S.A., Abbott Informatics Technologies Ltd, Abbott International Corporation, Abbott International Enterprises Ltd., Abbott International Holdings Limited, Abbott International LLC, Abbott International Luxembourg S.ar.l., Abbott Investments Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Ireland, Abbott Ireland Financing Designated Activity Company, Abbott Ireland Limited, Abbott Japan Co. Ltd., Abbott Kazakhstan Limited Liability Partnership, Abbott Knoll Investments B.V., Abbott Korea Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Bangladesh) Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Chile) Holdco (Dos) SpA, Abbott Laboratories (Chile) Holdco SpA, Abbott Laboratories (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Abbott Laboratories (Mozambique) Limitada, Abbott Laboratories (Pakistan) Limited, Abbott Laboratories (Philippines), Abbott Laboratories (Puerto Rico) Incorporated, Abbott Laboratories (Singapore) Private Limited, Abbott Laboratories A/S, Abbott Laboratories Argentina Sociedad Anonima, Abbott Laboratories B.V., Abbott Laboratories C.A., Abbott Laboratories Finance B.V., Abbott Laboratories GmbH, Abbott Laboratories Inc., Abbott Laboratories International LLC, Abbott Laboratories Ireland Limited, Abbott Laboratories Limited, Abbott Laboratories Limited - Laboratoires Abbott Limitee, Abbott Laboratories NZ Limited, Abbott Laboratories Pacific Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Poland Spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Laboratories Products B.V., Abbott Laboratories Residential Development Fund Inc., Abbott Laboratories S.A., Abbott Laboratories SA, Abbott Laboratories Services Corp., Abbott Laboratories Slovakia s.r.o., Abbott Laboratories South Africa (Pty) Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Laboratories Trustee Company Limited, Abbott Laboratories Uruguay S.A., Abbott Laboratories Vascular Enterprises, Abbott Laboratories d.o.o., Abbott Laboratories de Chile Limitada, Abbott Laboratories de Colombia S.A., Abbott Laboratories de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Abbott Laboratories druzba za farmacijo in diagnostiko d.o.o., Abbott Laboratories s.r.o., Abbott Laboratories(Hellas) Societe Anonyme, Abbott Laboratorios S.A., Abbott Laboratorios S.A., Abbott Laboratorios del Ecuador Cia. Ltda., Abbott Laboratuarlari Ithalat Ihracat ve Ticaret Ltd.Sti, Abbott Laboratorios Lda, Abbott Laboratorios do Brasil Ltda., Abbott Limited Egypt LLC, Abbott Logistics B.V., Abbott Management GmbH, Abbott Management LLC, Abbott Manufacturing Singapore Private Limited, Abbott Mature Products International Unlimited Company, Abbott Mature Products Management Limited, Abbott Medical (Hong Kong) Limited, Abbott Medical (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Abbott Medical (Portugal) Distribuicao de Produtos Medicos Lda, Abbott Medical (Schweiz) AG, Abbott Medical (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., Abbott Medical (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Australia Pty. Ltd., Abbott Medical Austria Ges.m.b.H., Abbott Medical Balkan d.o.o. Beograd (Novi Beograd), Abbott Medical Belgium, Abbott Medical Canada Inc./ Medicale Abbott Canada Inc., Abbott Medical Danmark A/S, Abbott Medical Devices Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Espana S.A., Abbott Medical Estonia OU, Abbott Medical Finland Oy, Abbott Medical France SAS, Abbott Medical GmbH, Abbott Medical Hellas Limited Liability Trading Company, Abbott Medical Ireland Limited, Abbott Medical Italia S.p.A., Abbott Medical Japan Co. Ltd., Abbott Medical Korea Limited, Abbott Medical Korlatolt Felelossegu Tarsasag, Abbott Medical Laboratories LTD, Abbott Medical Nederland B.V., Abbott Medical New Zealand Limited, Abbott Medical Norway AS, Abbott Medical Overseas Cyprus Limited, Abbott Medical Sweden AB, Abbott Medical Taiwan Co., Abbott Medical U.K. Limited, Abbott Medical spoka z ograniczona odpowiedzialnoscia, Abbott Middle East S.A.R.L., Abbott Molecular Inc., Abbott Morocco SARL, Abbott Nederland C.V., Abbott Nederland Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Netherlands Investments B.V., Abbott Norge AS, Abbott Nutrition Limited, Abbott Nutrition Manufacturing Inc., Abbott Operations Singapore Pte. Ltd., Abbott Operations Uruguay S.R.L., Abbott Overseas Cyprus Limited, Abbott Overseas Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Overseas S.A., Abbott Oy, Abbott Point of Care Canada Limited, Abbott Point of Care Inc., Abbott Poland Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Procurement LLC, Abbott Products (Philippines) Inc., Abbott Products (Spain) S.L., Abbott Products Algerie EURL, Abbott Products B.V., Abbott Products Distribution SAS, Abbott Products Egypt LLC, Abbott Products Limited, Abbott Products Limited Liability Company, Abbott Products Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Products Operations AG, Abbott Products Operations LLC, Abbott Products Romania S.R.L., Abbott Products Tunisie S.A.R.L., Abbott Products Unlimited Company, Abbott Resources Inc., Abbott Resources International Inc., Abbott S.r.l., Abbott Saudi Arabia Trading Company, Abbott Scandinavia Aktiebolag, Abbott Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, Abbott South Africa Luxembourg S.a r.l., Abbott Strategic Opportunities Limited, Abbott Trading Company Inc., Abbott Universal LLC, Abbott Vascular Devices (2) Limited, Abbott Vascular Devices Limited, Abbott Vascular Inc., Abbott Vascular Instruments Deutschland GmbH, Abbott Vascular International, Abbott Vascular Japan Co. Ltd, Abbott Vascular Limitada, Abbott Vascular Netherlands B.V., Abbott Vascular Solutions Inc., Abbott Ventures Inc., Abbott West Indies Limited, Abbott drustvo sa ogranicenom odgovornoscu za trgovinu i usluge, Advanced Neuromodulation Systems Inc., Alere, Alere (Shanghai) Diagnostics Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Healthcare Management Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Medical Sales Co. Ltd., Alere (Shanghai) Technology Co. Ltd., Alere A/S, Alere AB, Alere AS, Alere AS Holdings Limited, Alere BBI Holdings Limited, Alere Bangladesh Limited, Alere China Co. Ltd., Alere Colombia S.A., Alere Connect LLC, Alere Connected Health Limited, Alere Connected Health Ltd., Alere Diagnostics GmbH, Alere DoA Holding GmbH, Alere GmbH, Alere GmbH (Austria), Alere GmbH (Germany), Alere HK Holdings Ltd., Alere Health B.V., Alere Health BVBA, Alere Health Corp., Alere Health Sdn Bhd, Alere Health Services B.V., Alere Healthcare (Pty) Limited, Alere Healthcare Connections Limited, Alere Healthcare Inc., Alere Healthcare Nigeria Limited, Alere Healthcare S.L., Alere Holdco Inc., Alere Holding GmbH, Alere Holdings Bermuda Limited, Alere Holdings Pty Limited, Alere Home Monitoring Inc., Alere Inc., Alere Informatics Inc., Alere International Holding Corp., Alere International Limited, Alere Lda, Alere Limited, Alere Limited (New Zealand), Alere Medical BVBA, Alere Medical Co. Ltd., Alere Medical Pakistan (Private) Limited, Alere Medical Private Limited, Alere North America LLC, Alere Oy Ab, Alere Philippines Inc., Alere Phoenix ACQ Inc., Alere Pte Ltd, Alere S.A., Alere S.r.l., Alere S/A, Alere SAS, Alere San Diego Inc., Alere Scarborough Inc., Alere Spain S.L., Alere Switzerland GmbH, Alere Technologies GmbH, Alere Technologies Holdings Limited, Alere Technologies Limited, Alere Toxicology AB, Alere Toxicology Inc., Alere Toxicology S.r.l., Alere Toxicology Services Inc., Alere Toxicology plc, Alere UK Holdings Limited, Alere UK Subco Limited, Alere ULC, Alere US Holdings LLC, Alere s.r.o., Alisoc Investment & Co, Amedica Biotech Inc., Ameditech Inc., American Generics S.A.S., American Medical Supplies Inc., American Pharmacist Inc., Antares S.A., Apica Cardiovascular Limited, Aquagestion Capacitacion S.A., Aquagestion S.A., Arriva Medical LLC, Arriva Medical Philippines Inc., Arvis Investments Limited, Atlas Farmaceutica S.A., Avee Laboratories Inc., Axis-Shield AD III AS, Axis-Shield AD IV AS, Axis-Shield AS, Axis-Shield Diagnostics Limited, Axis-Shield Ltd., BBI Animal Health Limited, BBI Diagnostics Group 2 Public Limited Company, Banco de Vida S.A., Bioabsorbable Vascular Solutions Inc., Bioalgae S.A., Biohealth LLC, Biosite Incorporated, Bosque Bonito S.A., Branan Medical Corporation, Brandex Europe C.V., British Colloids Limited, CFR Chile S.A., CFR Interamericas EL Salvador Sociedad Anonima de Capital Variable, CFR Interamericas Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima, CFR Interamericas Panama S.A., CFR Pharmaceuticals, California Property Holdings III LLC, CardioMEMS LLC, Caripharm Inc., Cephea Valve Technologies, Cephea Valve Technologies Inc., Colibri Medical Aktiebolag, Comercializadora y Distribuidora CFR Interamericas Honduras S.A., Concateno South Limited, Concateno UK Limited, Consorcio Tecnologico en Biomedicina Clinico-Molecular S.A., Continuum Services LLC, Cozart Limited, Dextech S.A., Diagnostik Nord GmbH, Distribuciones Uquifa S.A.S., Domesco Medical Import-Export Joint-Stock Corporation, Duphar International Research B.V., Endocardial Solutions, Epocal (US) Inc, Esprit de Vie S.A., European Chemicals & Co, European Drug Testing Service EDTS AB, European Services S.A., Evalve Inc., Evalve International Inc., FARMINDUSTRIA S.A., Fada Pharma Paraguay Sociedad Anonima, Fadapharma del Ecuador S.A., Farmaceutica Mont Blanc S.L., Farmacologia Em Aquicultura Veterinaria Ltda., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV Ecuador S.A., Farmacologia en Aquacultura Veterinaria FAV S.A., Fernwood Investment S.A., First Check Diagnostics LLC, Focus Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Forensics Limited, Forestcreek Overseas S.A., Fournier Pharma Corp., Fournier Pharma GmbH, Fournier Pharmaceuticals Limited, Framed B.V., Gabmed GmbH, Garden Hills LLC, Global Analytical Development LLC, Globapharm & CO LP, Glomed Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Golnorth Investments S.A., Gynocare Limited, Gynopharm Sociedad Anonima, Gynopharm de Centroamerica S.A., Gynopharm de Venezuela C.A., Hi-Tronics Designs Inc., IDEV Technologies Inc., IG Innovations Limited, IMTC Finance B.V., IMTC Holdings B.V., IMTC Technologies Inc., Ibis Biosciences LLC, Igloo Zone Chile S.A., Igloo Zone S.L., Inmobiliaria Naknek S.A.C., Innovacon Inc., Instant Tech Subsidiary Acquisition Inc., Instant Technologies Inc., Instituto de Criopreservacion de Chile S.A., Integrated Vascular Systems Inc., Inverness Canadian Acquisition Corporation, Inverness Medical (Beijing) Co. Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Australia Pty Ltd., Inverness Medical Innovations Hong Kong Limited, Inverness Medical Innovations SK LLC, Inverness Medical Investments LLC, Inverness Medical LLC, Inverness Medical Shimla Private Limited, Inversiones K2 SpA, Inversiones Komodo S.R.L., Ionian Technologies LLC, Irvine Biomedical Inc., Kalila Medical, Kangshenyunga S.A., Knoll UK Investments Unlimited, LLC VeroInPharm, Laboratoires Fournier S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano Lafrancol S.A.S., Laboratorio Franco Colombiano del Ecuador S.A., Laboratorio Internacional Argentino S.A., Laboratorio Synthesis S.A.S., Laboratorios Lafi Limitada, Laboratorios Naturmedik S.A.S., Laboratorios Pauly Pharmaceutical S.A.S., Laboratorios Recalcine S.A., Laboratorios Transpharm S.A., Laboratory Specialists of America Inc., Lafrancol Dominicana S.A.S., Lafrancol Guatemala S.A. Sociedad Anonima, Lafrancol Internacional S.A.S, Lafrancol Peru S.R.L, Lake Forest Investments LLC, Lightlab Imaging Inc., Limited Liability Company Abbott Laboratories, Limited Liability Company Abbott Ukraine, Limited Liability Company VEROPHARM, Lung Fung Hong (China) Limited, Mansbridge Pharmaceuticals Limited, MediGuide LLC, MediGuide Ltd., Medscreen Holdings Limited, Metropolitana Farmaceutica S.A., Midwest Properties LLC, Murex Argentina S.A., Murex Biotech Limited, Murex Biotech South Africa, Murex Diagnostics Inc., Murex Diagnostics International Inc., Natural Supplement Association LLC, Negocios Denia Sociedad Anonima, Neosalud S.A.C., Nether Pharma N.P. C.V., NeuroTherm LLC, Normann Pharma-Handels GmbH, North Shore Properties Inc., Novamedi S.A., Novasalud.com S.A., Nutravida S.A., OJSC Voronezhkhimpharm, Omnilab Iberia Sociedad Limitada, OptiMedica, Orgenics France SAS, Orgenics International Holdings B.V., Orgenics Ltd., PBM-Selfcare LLC, PDD II LLC, PDD LLC, PT Alere Health, PT. Abbott Indonesia, PT. Abbott Products Indonesia, Pacesetter Inc., Pantech (RF) (PTY) LTD, Pembrooke Occupational Health Inc., Penagos S.A., Pharma International Sociedad Anonima, Pharmaceutical Technologies (Pharmatech) S.A., Pharmatech Boliviana S.A., Polygon Labs S.A., Quality Assured Services Inc., RF Medical Holdings LLC, RTL Holdings Inc., Ramses Business Corp., Recben Xenerics Farmaceutica Limitada, Redwood Toxicology Laboratory Inc., Rich Horizons International Limited, SC VEROPHARM, SJ Medical Mexico S de R.L. de C.V., SJM International Inc., SJM Thunder Holding Company, SPDH Inc., Saboya Enterprises Corporation, Salviac Limited, Scanax AS, Sealing Solutions Inc., Selfcare Technology Inc., Shandong Abbott Dairy Product Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Medical Devices Science and Technology Co. Ltd., Shanghai Abbott Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Shanghai Si Fa Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Sinensix & Co., Spinal Modulation LLC, St. Jude Medical, St. Jude Medical AB, St. Jude Medical ATG Inc., St. Jude Medical Argentina S.A., St. Jude Medical Asia Pacific Holdings GK, St. Jude Medical Atrial Fibrillation Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Brasil Ltda., St. Jude Medical Business Services Inc., St. Jude Medical Cardiology Division Inc., St. Jude Medical Colombia Ltda., St. Jude Medical Coordination Center, St. Jude Medical Costa Rica Limitada, St. Jude Medical Europe Inc., St. Jude Medical Export Ges.m.b.H., St. Jude Medical GVA Sarl, St. Jude Medical Holdings B.V., St. Jude Medical India Private Limited, St. Jude Medical International Holding, St. Jude Medical LLC, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings II, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings NT, St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings SMI S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Luxembourg Holdings TC S.a r.l., St. Jude Medical Mexico Business Services S. de R.L. de C.V., St. Jude Medical Middle East DMCC, St. Jude Medical Operations (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., St. Jude Medical Puerto Rico LLC, St. Jude Medical S.C. Inc., St. Jude Medical Systems AB, St. Jude Medical Turkey Medikal Urunler Ticaret Limited Sirketi, Standard Diagnostics Inc., Standing Stone LLC, Swan-Myers Incorporated, TC1 LLC, Tendyne Holdings Inc., Tendyne Medical Inc., Thoratec Delaware LLC, Thoratec Europe Limited, Thoratec LLC, Thoratec Switzerland GmbH, Tobal Products Incorporated, Topera GmbH in Liquidation, Topera Inc., Tremora S.A., Tuenir S.A., TwistDx, UAB Abbott Laboratories, UAB Abbott Medical Lithuania, Union-Madison Realty Company Inc., Unipath Limited (dba Alere International/aka Cranfield), Unipath Management Limited, Unipath Pension Trustee Limited, Veropharm, Veropharm Limited Liability Partnership, Vida Cell Inversiones S.A., Vida Cell S.A., Vivalsol, W&R Pharma Handels GmbH, Western Pharmaceuticals S.A., X Technologies Inc., Yissum Holding Limited, ZonePerfect Nutrition Company, eScreen Canada ULC, eScreen Inc.,      ( ), and Abbott Laboratories Baltics.
The following companies are subsidiares of Archer-Daniels-Midland: ADM (Shanghai) Management Co. LTD, ADM (Thailand) Ltd, ADM Ag Holdings Ltd, ADM Agri-Industries Company, ADM Agriculture Limited, ADM Agro Iberica S. L. U., ADM Agro Indust Latur and Vizag Pvt Ltd, ADM Agro Industries India Private Limited, ADM Agro Industries KOTA and AKOLA Pvt. Ltd., ADM Agro SRL, ADM Agroinvestimentos LTDA, ADM Alliance Nutrition of Puerto Rico LLC, ADM Americas S de RL, ADM Andina Peru SRL, ADM Antwerp NV, ADM Arkady Ireland Limited, ADM Asia-Pacific Trading Pte. Ltd., ADM Australia Holdings I PTY Limited, ADM Bio Science And Technology (Tianjin) Co Ltd, ADM Bioproductos SA DE CV, ADM CZERNIN SA, ADM Caribbean Inc, ADM Chile Comercial LTDA, ADM Clinton Bioprocessing Inc, ADM DO Brasil LTDA, ADM Direct Polska SP. ZO.O, ADM Dominican Holdings Inc., ADM Dominicana SA, ADM Edible Bean Specialties Inc, ADM Europe HoldCo SL, ADM European Holdings LLC, ADM European Management Holding GMBH, ADM Export Co, ADM Food Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd., ADM France, ADM Germany GmbH, ADM Grain River System Inc., ADM Hamburg Aktiengesesllschaft, ADM Holding (Thailand) LTD, ADM Holdings LLC, ADM Hungary Agro Trading LLC, ADM Industries Centers Ltd, ADM International Holdings Inc, ADM International SARL, ADM Interoceanic LTD, ADM Investments LTD, ADM Investor Services Inc, ADM Investor Services International LTD, ADM Ireland Receivables Company Limited, ADM Israel, ADM Japan Ltd, ADM MALBORK SA, ADM Mainz GMBH, ADM Medsofts Sarl, ADM Mexico Inc, ADM Mexico SA DE CV, ADM Milling Co, ADM Milling LTD, ADM New Zealand Limited, ADM Olomouc S.R.O., ADM Paraguay SRL, ADM Protexin Limited, ADM Pura Limited, ADM Receivables LLC, ADM Rice Inc, ADM Ringaskiddy Unlimited Company, ADM Romania Logistics SRL, ADM Romania Trading SRL, ADM Specialty Ingredients - Europe BV, ADM Spyck GMBH, ADM Szamotuly SP Z O.O, ADM Trading Australia Pty. Ltd., ADM Trading Co, ADM Transportation Company, ADM Trucking Inc, ADM Vietnam CO. LTD, ADM WILD Europe GmbH and Co. 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When school opens this week, several students from Whitfield County elementary schools will have lots of supplies to make learning easier for them - and less of an economic burden for their parents.

Lt. Juan Martinez of the Whitfield County Sheriffs Office came up with the idea of the School Supplies Challenge 2018 after he and his wife helped a local family with the purchase of their supplies.

Lt. Martinez quickly recognized that for other families living paycheck to paycheck, the extra burden of paying for school supplies could also be a budget breaker. With Sheriff Scott Chitwoods blessing and the help of the county Human Resources Department, Lt. Martinez then challenged all county departments to go out and buy supplies or donate cash to buy them.

When the challenge came to a close Monday, an estimated $800 to $900 worth of school supplies  including book bags, crayons, glue sticks, wipes, markers, and more - had been donated and delivered to school officials for distribution to students needing help.

We want to thank everyone who donated to our challenge, Lt. Martinez said, and we hope to get started earlier next year and buy even more supplies for our students.
Aug 7, 2018 | By Thomas

Scientists from Central Queensland University are making use of 3D bioprinting and crocodile cartilage for a new way of treating arthritis and joint injuries.

Image credit: Koorana Crocodile Farm

Head Researcher Dr Padraig Strappe said that valuable growth factors from the cartilage of crocodiles help to promote adult stem cells from fat tissue or bone marrow, to become cartilage.

Along with a team of researchers from CQ University, Dr Strappe has been working on a process that extracts growth factors from crocodile cartilage and removes proteins that trigger an immune response in humans.

Dr Padraig Strappe holds crocodile cartilage that may be used to treat joint damage in humans. (ABC Capricornia: Megan Hendry)

"That gives us a soup or a glue that might promote our own adult stem cells," Dr Stappe said. "We hope that might promote cartilage repair, which is a big challenge and becoming more so in elderly populations."

Unlike other types of tissue, cartilage does not have a blood supply. Because of this, a traumatic injury to a joint, particularly the knee, can leave a crack or a hole between a joining bone, and damaged cartilage takes much longer to heal. "You are left with a hole that needs to be filled in," said Dr Strappe.

After the croc cartilage 'soup' is added to the adult stem cells, a 3D printer is used to bio-print cartilage explants that could eventually be injected into damaged human joints to fill the hole.

"With 3D printing we can mimic that hole or that gap so potentially the orthopaedic surgeon could fill in that gap with a little cartilage explant to repair the joint," said Dr Strappe.

"What we're looking for is a long-term repair to the cartilage so people can return to work and to sport much faster and they don't have the long-term effects of inflamed joints," he added.

Dr Strappe's research was inspired from a CSIRO study from more than a decade agao that ranked the proteoglycan levels in the cartilage of a number of different species. Crocodiles were at the top of the list because a crocodile has very big articulating joints so it needs a lot of cartilage to maintain that movement. The cartilage around the rib cage of the crocodile is the most valuable part for the researchers, as it is particularly rich in proteoglycans.

A specimen jar containing cartilage from the throat area of a young crocodile. (ABC Capricornia: Megan Hendry)

A crocodile cartilage specimen. (ABC Capricornia: Megan Hendry)

The cartilage is sourced from the nearby Koorana Crocodile Farm which produces skins for export to Italian fashion houses and meat for the Australian market. The waste product for them is the cartilage. "Any croc cartilage that's left, I try to collect as fresh as I can or it can be frozen," Dr Strappe said.

With a focus on zero waste, Koorana Crocodile Farm representative said the farm's relationship with Dr Strappe was mutually beneficial.

The research team is currently focused on maintaining funding for the project and generating interest among bio-tech companies that could potentially develop and market the technology.

Posted in 3D Printing Application

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Ltd, Phadia Luxembourg Holdings S.a.r.l., Phadia Malta Holdings Limited, Phadia Oy, Phadia Real Property AB, Phadia Sweden AB, Phadia Taiwan Inc., Phadia US Inc., Phadia s.r.o., Pharmacaps Mexicana SA de CV, Phenom-World B.V., Phenom-World Holding B.V, Phenom-World Innovations B.V., Phinotex, Pierce Biotechnology Inc., Pierce Milwaukee Holding Corp., Pierce Milwaukee Inc., Polychromix, Power Sweden Holdings I AB, Power Sweden Holdings II AB, Power Sweden Holdings III Aktiebolag, Princeton Gamma-Tech Instruments LLC, Princeton Security Technologies, Prionics AG, Prionics Asia Ltd., Prionics Deutschland GmbH, Prionics France SAS, Prionics Italia S.r.l., Prionics Lelystad B.V., Prionics USA Inc., Priority Air Express LLC, Priority Air Express Pte. Ltd., Priority Air Express UK Limited, Priority Air Holdings Corp, Priority Solutions International, Promedica Pty Limited, Proxeon, Proxeon Biosystems ApS, Qiagen, REP GBP I-B Blocker Inc., Raymond A Lamb Limited, Remel Europe Limited, Remel Inc., Richard-Allan Scientific Company, Robbins Scientific LLC, Robocon Labor- und Industrieroboter Gesellschaft m.b.H, Rupprecht and Patashnick, Rupprecht and Patashnick (R&P), Russell pH Limited, S.C.I. du 10 rue Dugay Trouin, SCI Inno 92, STC Bio Manufacturing Inc., Samco Scientific (Monterrey) LLC, Samco Scientific LLC, Saroph Sweden AB, Schantz Road LLC, Seradyn Inc., Shanghai Life Technologies Biotechnology Co. Limited, Shanghai Thermo Fisher (C-I) Trading Co. Ltd, Shanghai Thermo Fisher (S) Trading Co. Ltd, Southern Trials (Pty) Ltd., Specialty (SMI) Inc., Spectra-Physics AB, Spectra-Physics Holdings Limited, Spectra-Physics Holdings USA LLC, Spectronex, Staten Island Cogeneration Corporation, Sterilin Limited, Stokes Bio Ltd., Sweden DIA (Sweden) AB, SwissAnalytic Group GmbH, Systems Manufacturing Corporation, TFLP LLC, TFS Breda B.V., TFS LLC, TFS Singapore HK Limited, TFSL Financing GP LLC, TFSL Senior GP Holdings 2 LLC, TK Partnership, TKA Wasseraufbereitungssysteme, TMOI Inc., TPI Real Estate Holdings LLC, TSP Holdings I LLC, TWX LLC, Technology Design Solutions Pty Ltd, Thermedics Detection de Argentina S.R.L, Thermo Allen Coding Limited, Thermo Asset Management Services Inc., Thermo BioAnalysis LLC, Thermo BioAnalysis Limited, Thermo BioSciences Holdings LLC, Thermo CIDTEC, Thermo CRS Holdings Ltd., Thermo CRS Ltd., Thermo Cambridge Limited, Thermo Cayman Holdings Ltd., Thermo Corporation, Thermo DMA Inc., Thermo Detection de Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Thermo Dutch Holdings Limited Partnership, Thermo EGS Gauging LLC, Thermo Eberline Holdings I LLC, Thermo Eberline Holdings II LLC, Thermo Eberline LLC, Thermo Electron (Calgary) Limited, Thermo Electron (Chile) S.p.A., Thermo Electron (Karlsruhe) GmbH, Thermo Electron (Management Services) Limited, Thermo Electron (Proprietary) Limited, Thermo Electron A/S, Thermo Electron Australia Pty Limited, Thermo Electron Export Inc., Thermo Electron Holdings SAS, Thermo Electron Industries, Thermo Electron LED GmbH, Thermo Electron LED S.A.S., Thermo Electron Limited, Thermo Electron Manufacturing Limited, Thermo Electron Metallurgical Services Inc., Thermo Electron North America LLC, Thermo Electron Pension Trust GmbH, Thermo Electron Puerto Rico Inc., Thermo Electron SAS, Thermo Electron Scientific Instruments LLC, Thermo Electron Sweden AB, Thermo Electron Sweden Forvaltning AB, Thermo Electron Weighing & Inspection Limited, Thermo Elemental Limited, Thermo Environmental Instruments LLC, Thermo Fast U.K. Limited, Thermo Finland Holdings LLC, Thermo Finland Holdings MT1 B.V., Thermo Finland Holdings MT2 B.V., Thermo Finnigan LLC, Thermo Finnigan Limited, Thermo Fisher (CN) Luxembourg Holding S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher (CN) Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher (CN) Malta Holdings Limited, Thermo Fisher (CN-I) Luxembourg LLC, Thermo Fisher (CN-II) Luxembourg LLC, Thermo Fisher (Cayman) Holdings I Ltd., Thermo Fisher (Cayman) Holdings II Ltd., Thermo Fisher (Finland Holdings 2) LLC, Thermo Fisher (Finland Holdings) Limited Partnership, Thermo Fisher (Gibraltar) II Limited, Thermo Fisher (Gibraltar) Limited, Thermo Fisher (Heysham) Limited, Thermo Fisher (Kandel) GmbH, Thermo Fisher CHK Holding LLC, Thermo Fisher China Business Trust, Thermo Fisher China Business Trust II, Thermo Fisher Costa Rica Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada, Thermo Fisher Cyprus Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Detection Mexico LLC, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics (Ireland) Limited, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics AB, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics AG, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics AS, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Aps, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Austria GmbH, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics B.V., Thermo Fisher Diagnostics GmbH, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics K.K., Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Limited, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics NV, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics S.L.U., Thermo Fisher Diagnostics S.p.A. , Thermo Fisher Diagnostics SAS, Thermo Fisher Diagnostics Sociedade Unipessoal Lda, Thermo Fisher Eurobonds Ltd., Thermo Fisher Financial Services Inc., Thermo Fisher GP LLC, Thermo Fisher German Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Germany B.V., Thermo Fisher India Divestco Private Limited, Thermo Fisher India Holding B.V., Thermo Fisher Insurance Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Insurance Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Investments (Cayman) Ltd., Thermo Fisher Israel Ltd., Thermo Fisher Production et Services SAS, Thermo Fisher Project Cyprus LLC, Thermo Fisher Re Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Asheville) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Australia) C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Barbados) Holdings Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Breda) Holding BV, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Bremen) GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific (CN) Limited Partnership, Thermo Fisher Scientific (China) Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (China) Holding Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (China-HK) Holding Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (DE) Holding S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Ecublens) SARL, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance I) B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance I) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance II) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance III) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Finance III) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Fuji) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Guangzhou) Co. Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Holding II) B.V. & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Hong Kong) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (IVGN) B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (IVGN) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Johannesburg) (Proprietary) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Mexico City) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Milwaukee) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Mississauga) Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Monterrey) S. De R.L. De C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (NK) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN) Austria Holding GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN) UK LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN) UK Limited Partnership, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN-I) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN-II) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific (PN1) UK Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Panama) B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Panama) Dutch LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Praha) s.r.o., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Real Estate 1) GmbH & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Real Estate 1) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Schweiz) AG, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Shanghai) Instruments Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Shanghai) Management Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific (Suzhou) Instruments Co. Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific (Thailand) Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific AL-1 LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific AU C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific AU II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific AU LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific AU Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Africa Proprietary Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Aquasensors LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Australia Pty Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific B.V.B.A., Thermo Fisher Scientific BHK (I) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific BHK (II) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics UAB, Thermo Fisher Scientific Beteiligungsverwaltungs GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Biosciences Corp., Thermo Fisher Scientific Brahms LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Brasil Instrumentos de Processo Ltda., Thermo Fisher Scientific Brasil Servicos de Logistica Ltda, Thermo Fisher Scientific C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cayman Investments LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Chemicals Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific China (C-I) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific China (S) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings I B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings II B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings III B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific China Holdings IV B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Chromatography Holdings Aps, Thermo Fisher Scientific Chromatography Holdings S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus I C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus I Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus II Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus III C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus III Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus IV C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Cyprus V C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Denmark Senior Holdings ApS, Thermo Fisher Scientific Erie 1 Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Erie Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Erie Financing S.a r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Europe GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC Finance C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC II B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific FLC LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific FSIR Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific FSIR Financing S.a.r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific FSUKHCO Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Falcon Senior Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Finance Company BV, Thermo Fisher Scientific GENEART GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Germany BV & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific HR Services Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Holdings (Cayman) I, Thermo Fisher Scientific Holdings (Cayman) II , Thermo Fisher Scientific Holdings Europe Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific IT Services GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific India Holding LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific India Pvt Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Luxembourg) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Malta) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Sweden) LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments (Sweden) S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Investments Malta (Sweden Financing) Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Invitrogen Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Japan Holdings I B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Japan Holdings II B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Japan Holdings III B.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific K.K., Thermo Fisher Scientific Korea Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific LSI Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life CV GP Holdings II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life CV GP Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Enterprises C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Enterprises GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing (Cayman), Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Financing Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings I C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings III C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Holdings Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life International GP Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life International Holdings I C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life International Holdings II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments I S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments II S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments III S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments IV S.a.r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta Holding I LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta Holding II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta I Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments Malta II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments US Financing I LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Investments US Financing II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life NL Holdings GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Netherlands Holding C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior GP Holdings II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior GP Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior Holdings C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior Holdings II C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Senior Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Switzerland Holdings GP LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Tech Korea Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Enterprise Holding Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment I LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment II LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment UK I Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investment UK II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Investments Holding LP, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Israel Investment I Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Israel Investment II Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Life Technologies Luxembourg Holding LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Enterprise Holdings S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg German Holdings S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Life Technologies UK Holding S.a r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Sweden Holdings I S.a r.l, Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Sweden Holdings II S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Venture Holdings I S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Luxembourg Venture Holdings II S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Thermo Fisher Scientific Malta Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Messtechnik GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Mexico City S. de R.L. de C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific Middle East Holdings Inc., Thermo Fisher Scientific Milano Srl, Thermo Fisher Scientific NHK Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific New Zealand Holdings, Thermo Fisher Scientific New Zealand Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Norway Holdings AS, Thermo Fisher Scientific Norway US Investments LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Odyssey Financing (Barbados) SRL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Odyssey Holdings Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Operating Company LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Oy, Thermo Fisher Scientific PN2 C.V, Thermo Fisher Scientific PN2 LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific PRB LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific PRB Malta Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific PRB S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Panama I Cayman Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific Peru S.R.L., Thermo Fisher Scientific Pte. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific Re Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific SL, Thermo Fisher Scientific Senior Financing LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Senior Holdings Australia LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific South Africa Proprietary Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific SpA, Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra Malta Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra S.a.r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra-Physics Holdings Luxembourg I S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra-Physics Holdings Luxembourg II S.a r.l., Thermo Fisher Scientific Spectra-Physics Investments Malta Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Switzerland Holdings C.V., Thermo Fisher Scientific TR Limited, Thermo Fisher Scientific Taiwan Co. Ltd., Thermo Fisher Scientific Vermogensverwaltungs GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific West Palm Holdings LLC, Thermo Fisher Scientific Wissenschaftliche Gerate GmbH, Thermo Fisher Scientific Worldwide Investments (Cayman), Thermo Fisher Scientific eCommerce Solutions LLC , Thermo Fisher Senior Canada Holdings LLC, Thermo Foundation Inc., Thermo Gamma-Metrics Holdings Pty Ltd., Thermo Gamma-Metrics LLC, Thermo Gamma-Metrics Pty Ltd, Thermo Holding European Operations LLC, Thermo Hypersil Ltd, Thermo Hypersil-Keystone LLC, Thermo Informatics Asia Pacific Pty Ltd., Thermo Instrument Controls de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Thermo Kevex X-Ray LLC, Thermo Keytek LLC, Thermo LabSystems Inc., Thermo LabSystems S.A., Thermo Life Science International Trading (Tianjin) Co. Ltd., Thermo Life Sciences AB, Thermo Luxembourg Holding S.a.r.l., Thermo Luxembourg S.a.r.l., Thermo MF Physics LLC, Thermo Measurement Ltd, Thermo Measuretech Canada Inc., Thermo Neslab LLC, Thermo Nicolet Limited, Thermo Onix Limited, Thermo Optek (Australia) Pty Ltd., Thermo Optek Limited, Thermo Optek S.A., Thermo Orion Inc., Thermo Portable Holdings LLC, Thermo Power Corporation, Thermo Process Instruments GP LLC, Thermo Process Instruments L.P., Thermo Projects Limited, Thermo Quest S.A., Thermo Radiometrie Limited, Thermo Ramsey Italia S.r.l., Thermo Ramsey LLC, Thermo Ramsey S.A., Thermo Re Ltd., Thermo Scientific Microbiology Pte Ltd., Thermo Scientific Microbiology Sdn Bhd, Thermo Scientific Portable Analytical Instruments Inc., Thermo Scientific Services Inc., Thermo Securities Corporation, Thermo Sentron Canada Inc., Thermo Sentron Limited, Thermo Shandon Inc., Thermo Shandon Limited, Thermo Suomi Holding B.V., Thermo TLH (UK) Limited, Thermo TLH L.P., Thermo Trace Pty Ltd., Thermo-Fisher Biochemical Product (Beijing) Co. Ltd., ThermoLase LLC, ThermoSpectra Limited, Trek Diagnostic Systems LLC, Trek Diagnostic Systems Ltd., Trek Holding Company II Ltd., Trek Holding Company Ltd., Trex Medical Corporation, USB Corporation, Union Lab Supplies Limited, United Diagnostics Inc., VG Systems Limited, Westover Scientific Inc., ZAO PE Biosystems, eBioscience GmbH, eBioscience Ltd, eBioscience SAS, and picoSpin LLC.
CNA Financial Corp. operates as an insurance holding company. Its products primarily include commercial property and casualty coverages, including surety. The company's services include risk management, information services and warranty and claims administration. The firm operates through Property & Casualty Operations and Outside Property & Casualty Operations. The Property & Casualty Operations comprises of three segments: Specialty, commercial and international. The Specialty segment provides professional, financial and specialty property and casualty products and services. The Commercial segment includes property and casualty coverages sold to small businesses and middle market entities and organizations primarily through an independent agency distribution system. The International segment underwrites property and casualty coverages. The Outside Property & Casualty Operations consists of two segments: Life & Group and Corporate & Other. The Life & Group segment includes the results of the individual and group long term care businesses that are in run-off. The Corporate & Other segment involves in the corporate expenses, including interest on corporate debt, and the results of

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SunTrust Banks, Inc. operates as the holding company for SunTrust Bank that provides various financial services for consumers, businesses, corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit entities in the United States. It operates in two segments, Consumer and Wholesale. The Consumer segment provides deposits and payments; home equity and personal credit lines; auto, student, and other lending products; credit cards; discount/online and full-service brokerage products; professional investment advisory products and services; and trust services, as well as family office solutions. This segment also offers residential mortgage products in the secondary market. The Wholesale segment provides capital markets solutions, including advisory, capital raising, and financial risk management; asset-based financing solutions, such as securitizations, asset-based lending, equipment financing, and structured real estate arrangements; cash management services and auto dealer financing solutions; investment banking solutions; and credit and deposit, fee-based product offering, multi-family agency lending, advisory, commercial mortgage brokerage, and tailored financing and equity investment solutions. This segment also offers treasury and payment solutions, such as operating various electronic and paper payment types, which comprise card, wire transfer, automated clearing house, check, and cash; and provides services clients to manage their accounts online. The company offers its products and services through a network of traditional and in-store branches, automated teller machines, Internet, mobile, and telephone banking channels. As of December 31, 2018, it operated 1,218 full-service banking offices located in Florida, Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Maryland, South Carolina, and the District of Columbia. SunTrust Banks, Inc. was founded in 1891 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

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John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund is a closed ended equity mutual fund launched and managed by John Hancock Investment Management LLC. It is co-managed by John Hancock Asset Management and Analytic Investors, LLC. The fund invests in the public equity markets of the United States. It seeks to invest in stocks of companies operating across diversified sectors, with an emphasis on the utilities sector. The fund primarily invests in dividend-paying common and preferred stocks of companies which have dividends that qualify for a more favorable long-term capital gains tax rate. It invests in stocks of companies across diversified market capitalizations. The fund benchmarks the performance of its portfolio against a composite benchmark comprised of 55% Bank of America Merrill Lynch Preferred Stock DRD Eligible Index and 45% S&P 500 Utilities Index. John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund was formed on February 27, 2004 and is domiciled in the United States.

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KapStone Paper and Packaging Corporation produces and sells a range of containerboards, corrugated products, and specialty paper products in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Paper and Packaging, and Distribution. The Paper and Packaging segment offers containerboards consisting of linerboard and corrugated medium to manufacture corrugated containers for packaging products; and corrugated products. It also offers specialty paper products, including kraft paper, such as multiwall paper used to produce bags for agricultural products, pet food, baking products, cement and chemicals; specialty products comprising shingle wraps, end caps, roll wraps, and dunnage bags; and lightweight paper. In addition, this segment provides saturating kraft paper under the Durasorb trade name for use in construction, electronics manufacturing, and furniture manufacturing industries; and unbleached folding carton board under the Kraftpak trade name to integrated and independent converters in the folding carton industry. The Distribution segment distributes corrugated and other specialty packaging products consisting of stretch films, void fills, carton sealing tapes, and other specialty tapes. KapStone Paper and Packaging Corporation was founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois.

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The following companies are subsidiares of Mohawk Industries: A&S Energie NV, A&U Energie NV, Aladdin Manufacturing Corporation, Aladdin Manufacturing Of New York LLC, Aladdin Manufacturing of Alabama LLC, Alsace Logistique S.A., Avelgem Green Power CVBA, Avon Pacific Holdings Ltd, B&M NV, BGE Mexico S. de R. L. de C.V., Berghoef GmbH, Berghoef-Hout B.V., Bienes Raices y Materiales del Centro S. de R.L. de C.V., C.F. Marazzi S.A., Canterbury Spinners Ltd, Carpet Foundation Ltd, Cevotrans BV, Ceramus Bahia S/A  Produtos Ceramicos, DT Mex Holdings LLC, DTM/CM Holdings LLC, Dal Italia LLC, Dal-Elit LLC, Dal-Tile Chile Comercial Limitada, Dal-Tile Colombia S.A.S., Dal-Tile Distribution Inc., Dal-Tile Group Inc., Dal-Tile I LLC, Dal-Tile Industrias S. de R.L. de C.V., Dal-Tile International Inc., Dal-Tile Mexico Comercial S. de R.L. de C.V., Dal-Tile Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., Dal-Tile Operaciones Mexico S. De R.L. De C.V., Dal-Tile Peru SRL, Dal-Tile Puerto Rico Inc., Dal-Tile Services Inc., Dal-Tile Shared Services Inc., Dal-Tile Tennessee LLC, Dal-Tile of Canada ULC, Daltile, Daltile, Dekaply NV, Durkan, Dynea NV, Eliane Argentina Sociedad Anonima, Eliane S/A - Revestimentos Ceramicos, Emilceramica India Pvt Ltd., Emilceramica S.r.l, Emilgermany GmbH, Emilgroup Asia Ltd, Explorer S.r.l., F.I.L.S. Investments Unlimited Company, Feltex Carpets Ltd, Feltex Carpets Pty Ltd, Feltex New Zealand Ltd, Fibremakers Australia Pty Ltd, Flooring Foundation Ltd, Flooring Industries Limited S.a r.l., Flooring XL B.V., Floorscape Limited, Godfrey Hirst & Co Pty Ltd, Godfrey Hirst (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Godfrey Hirst Australia Pty Ltd, Godfrey Hirst Group, Godfrey Hirst NZ Ltd, Hytherm (Ireland) Limited, IVC BVBA, IVC Far-East Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., IVC France S.a r.l., IVC GROUP LIMITED, IVC Green Power NV, IVC Group, IVC Group GmbH, IVC Luxembourg S.a r.l., IVC Rus OOO, IVC US Inc., International Flooring Systems S.a r.l., International Vinyl Company - Vostok OOO, KAI Group, KAI Keramica Ltd, KAI Mining EOOD, KERAMA CENTER OOO, Kerama Baltics OOO, Kerama Export OOO, Kerama Marazzi OOO, Kerampromservis (LLC), Khan Asparuh - Transport EOOD, Khan Asparuh AD, Khan Omurtag AD, Koninklijke Peitsman B.V., Kraj Kerama OOO, MG China Trading Ltd., MI Finance SRL, MUD (Holding) Brazil Ltda., Management Co EAD, Marazzi Acquisition S.r.l., Marazzi Deutschland G.m.b.H., Marazzi France Trading S.A.S., Marazzi Group, Marazzi Group F.Z.E., Marazzi Group S.r.l., Marazzi Group Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Marazzi Iberia S.L.U., Marazzi Japan Co. Ltd., Marazzi Middle East FZ LLC, Marazzi Schweiz S.A.G.L., Marazzi UK Ltd., Mohawk Assurance Services Inc., Mohawk Australia Pty Ltd, Mohawk Canada Corporation, Mohawk Capital Finance S.A., Mohawk Capital Luxembourg SA, Mohawk Carpet Distribution Inc., Mohawk Carpet Foundation Inc., Mohawk Carpet LLC, Mohawk Carpet Transportation Of Georgia LLC, Mohawk Commercial Inc., Mohawk ESV Inc., Mohawk Europe BVBA, Mohawk Factoring II Inc., Mohawk Factoring LLC, Mohawk Finance S.a r.l., Mohawk Foreign Acquisitions S.a r.l., Mohawk Foreign Funding S.a.r.l, Mohawk Foreign Holdings S.a r.l., Mohawk Foreign Investments Inc., Mohawk Global Investments S.a r.l., Mohawk Holdings International B.V., Mohawk Industries Inc., Mohawk International (Europe) S.a r.l., Mohawk International (Hong Kong) Limited, Mohawk International Capital N.V., Mohawk International Financing S.a.r.l, Mohawk International Holdings (DE) LLC, Mohawk International Holdings S.a r.l., Mohawk International Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk International Netherlands B.V., Mohawk International Services BVBA, Mohawk KAI Luxembourg Holding S.a r.l., Mohawk KAI Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Capital S.A., Mohawk Luxembourg Financing S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Holdings S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Investments S.a r.l., Mohawk Luxembourg Pacific S.a r.l., Mohawk Marazzi International BV, Mohawk Marazzi Russia BV, Mohawk New Zealand Limited, Mohawk Operaciones Mexicali S. de R.L. de C.V., Mohawk Operations Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk Pacific Investments S.a r.l., Mohawk Resources LLC, Mohawk Servicing LLC, Mohawk Singapore Private Limited, Mohawk Trading (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Mohawk Unilin Luxembourg S.a r.l., Mohawk United Finance B.V., Mohawk United International B.V., Mohawk Vinyl Financing S.a r.l., Molber Beheer B.V., Monarch Ceramic Tile Inc., P.F. Onroerend Goed B.V., PF Beheer B.V., Pergo, Pergo (Europe) AB, Pergo Holding BV, Pergo India Pvt Ltd, Polcolorit S.A., Premium Floors Australia Pty Limited, RR Apex LLC, Rata International Pty Ltd, Recubrimientos Interceramica S. de R.L. de C.V., Riverside Textiles Pty Ltd, S.C. KAI Ceramics SRL, Sibir Kerama OOO, SimpleSolutions USA LLC, Soft Step (Australia) Pty Ltd, Spano Group, Spano Invest BVBA, Spano NV, Stroyagromekhzapchast ChaO, Stroytrans OAO Orelstroy, Summit Wool Spinners Ltd, The Flooring Federation Ltd, Tiles Co OOD, Unilin (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Unilin ApS, Unilin Arauco Pisos Ltda., Unilin BVBA, Unilin Beheer BV, Unilin Distribution Ltd., Unilin Distribution Ukraine LLC, Unilin Finland OY, Unilin Flooring India Private Limited, Unilin Flooring SAS, Unilin GmbH, Unilin Holding BVBA, Unilin Insulation BV, Unilin Insulation SAS, Unilin Insulation Sury SAS, Unilin Italia S.R.L., Unilin North America LLC, Unilin Norway AS, Unilin OOO, Unilin Panels SAS, Unilin Poland Sp.Z.o.o., Unilin SAS, Unilin Spain SL, Unilin Swiss GmbH, Unilin s.r.o., World International Inc., Xtratherm, Xtratherm Limited, Xtratherm S.A., and Xtratherm UK Limited.
The following companies are subsidiares of HCA Healthcare: 2490 Church LLC, 360 Community Alliance LLC, 4600 Waters Avenue Professional Building Condominium Association Inc., 52 Alderley Road LLP, AC Med LLC, ACH Inc., ADC Surgicenter LLC, AOGN LLC, AOSC Sports Medicine Inc., AR Holding 1 LLC, AR Holding 10 LLC, AR Holding 11 LLC, AR Holding 12 LLC, AR Holding 13 LLC, AR Holding 14 LLC, AR Holding 15 LLC, AR Holding 16 LLC, AR Holding 17 LLC, AR Holding 18 LLC, AR Holding 19 LLC, AR Holding 2 LLC, AR Holding 20 LLC, AR Holding 21 LLC, AR Holding 22 LLC, AR Holding 23 LLC, AR Holding 24 LLC, AR Holding 25 LLC, AR Holding 26 LLC, AR Holding 27 LLC, AR Holding 28 LLC, AR Holding 29 LLC, AR Holding 30 LLC, AR Holding 31 LLC, AR Holding 4 LLC, AR Holding 5 LLC, AR Holding 6 LLC, AR Holding 7 LLC, AR Holding 8 LLC, AR Holding 9 LLC, ASD Shared Services LLC, Acadiana Care Center Inc., Acadiana Practice Management Inc., Acadiana Regional Pharmacy Inc., Access 2 Health Care Physicians LLC, Access Health Care Physicians LLC, Access Management Co. LLC, Ace Leasing II LLC, Acute Kids Urgent Care of Medical City Childrens Hospital PLLC, Acworth Immediate Care LLC, Administrative Physicians of North Texas PLLC, Advanced Bundle Convener LLC, Advanced Plastic Surgery Center of Terre Haute LLC, Advanced Practice Providers of Gulf Coast PLLC, Alaska Regional Medical Group LLC, Albany Family Practice LLC, Aligned Business Consortium Group L.P., All About Staffing (India) Ltd., All About Staffing Inc., All About Staffing Philippines Inc., Alleghany General and Bariatric Services LLC, Alleghany Hospitalists LLC, Alleghany Primary Care Inc., Alleghany Specialists LLC, Alliance Surgicare LLC, Alpine Surgicenter LLC, Alta Internal Medicine LLC, Alternaco LLC, Altitude Mid Level Providers LLC, Ambulatory Endoscopy Clinic of Dallas Ltd., Ambulatory Endoscopy Holdco LLC, Ambulatory Laser Associates GP, Ambulatory Services Management Corporation of Chesterfield County Inc., Ambulatory Surgery Center Group Ltd., American Medicorp Development Co., Anchorage Surgicenter LLC, AppleCare/Memorial Immediate Care Joint Venture LLC, Appledore Medical Group II Inc., Appledore Medical Group Inc., Appomattox Imaging LLC, Arapahoe Surgicenter LLC, Arlington Diagnostic South Inc., Arlington Neurosurgeons PLLC, Arlington Primary Care PLLC, Arlington Primary Medicine PLLC, Arlington Surgery Center L.P., Arlington Surgicare LLC, Arthritis Specialists of Nashville Inc., Ashburn ASC LLC, Ashburn Imaging LLC, Athens Community Hospital Inc., Atlanta Healthcare Management L.P., Atlanta Home Care L.P., Atlanta Market GP Inc., Atlanta Outpatient Surgery Center Inc., Atlanta Surgery Center Ltd., Atlantis Surgicare LLC, Atrium Surgery Center L.P., Atrium Surgicare LLC, Augusta CyberKnife LLC, Augusta Inpatient Services LLC, Augusta Management Services LLC, Augusta Multispecialty Services LLC, Augusta Primary Care Services LLC, Augusta Specialty Hospitalists LLC, Augusta Urgent Care Services LLC, Aurora Endoscopy Surgicenter LLC, Austin GI Surgicenter LLC, Austin Heart Cardiology MSO LLC, Austin Medical Center Inc., Austin Physicians Management LLC, Austin Urogynecology PLLC, Aventura Cancer Center Manager LLC, Aventura Comprehensive Cancer Research Group of Florida Inc., Aventura Healthcare Specialists LLC, Aventura Neurosurgery LLC, BAMI Property LLC, Backlogs Limited, Bailey Square Ambulatory Surgical Center Ltd., Bailey Square Outpatient Surgical Center Inc., Bannerman Family Care LLC, Barrow Medical Center CT Services Ltd., Basic American Medical Inc., Basil Street Practice Limited, Bay Area Healthcare Group Ltd., Bay Area Surgical Center Investors Ltd., Bay Area Surgicare Center Inc., Bay Area Surgicenter LLC, Bay Hospital Inc., Bayonet Point Surgery Center Ltd., Bayshore Family Practitioners PLLC, Bayshore Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Bayshore Occupational and Family Medicine PLLC, Bayshore Partner LLC, Bayshore Radiation Oncology Services PLLC, Bayshore Surgery Center Ltd., Bayside Ambulatory Center LLC, Bedford-Northeast Community Hospital Inc., Behavioral Health Sciences of West Florida LLC, Behavioral Health Wellness Center LLC, Bellaire Imaging Inc., Belleair Surgery Center Ltd., Belton Family Practice Clinic LLC, Big Cypress Medical Center Inc., Blacksburg Family Care LLC, Blossoms Healthcare LLP, Blue Ridge-TKC LLC, Bone & Joint Specialists Physician Group LLC, Bonita Bay Surgery Center Inc., Bonita Bay Surgery Center Ltd., Bountiful Surgery Center LLC, Boynton Beach EFL Imaging Center LLC, Bradenton Cardiology Physician Network LLC, Bradenton Outpatient Services LLC, Brandon Imaging Manager LLC, Brandon Regional Cancer Center LLC, Brentwood ASC LLC, Brigham City Community Hospital Inc., Brigham City Community Hospital Physician Services LLC, Brigham City Health Plan Inc., Brighton Surgicenter LLC, Brookwood Medical Center of Gulfport Inc., Broward Cardiovascular Surgeons LLC, Broward Healthcare System Inc., Broward Neurosurgeons LLC, Brownsville Specialists of Texas PLLC, Brownsville Surgery PLLC, Brownsville Surgical Specialists PLLC, Brownsville Surgicenter LLC, Brownsville-Valley Regional Medical Center Inc., Buford Road Imaging L.L.C., Byron Family Practice LLC, C. Medrano M.D. PLLC, C/HCA Capital Inc., C/HCA Development Inc., C/HCA Inc., CAREOS Surgicenter LLC, CC Clinic PLLC, CCBH Psychiatric Hospitalists LLC, CCH-GP Inc., CFC Investments Inc., CH Systems, CHC Finance Co., CHC Holdings Inc., CHC Management Ltd., CHC Payroll Agent Inc., CHC Payroll Company, CHC Realty Company, CHC Venture Co., CHC-El Paso Corp., CHC-Miami Corp., CHCA Bayshore L.P., CHCA Clear Lake L.P., CHCA Conroe L.P., CHCA Mainland L.P., CHCA Pearland L.P., CHCA West Houston L.P., CHCA Womans Hospital L.P., CHCK Inc., CJW Infectious Disease LLC, CJW Wound Healing Center LLC, CLASC Manager LLC, COL-NAMC Holdings Inc., COSCORP LLC, CP Surgery Center LLC, CPS TN Processor 1 Inc., CRMC-M LLC, CUC PLLC, CVMC Property LLC, Calder Immediate Care PLLC, California Imaging Center Manager LLC, California Urgent Care LLC, Calloway Creek Surgery Center L.P., Calloway Creek Surgicare LLC, Cancer Centers of North Florida LLC, Cancer Services of Aventura LLC, Capital Anesthesia Services LLC, Capital Area Cardiology, Capital Area CareNow Physician Associates, Capital Area Multispecialty Providers, Capital Area Neurosurgeons, Capital Area Occupational Medicine PLLC, Capital Area Primary Care PLLC, Capital Area Primary Care Providers, Capital Area Providers, Capital Area Specialists PLLC, Capital Area Specialty Providers, Capital Area Surgeons PLLC, Capital Division - CCA Inc., Capital Division Inc., Capital Network Services Inc., Capital Professional Billing LLC, Capital Regional Healthcare LLC, Capital Regional Heart Associates LLC, Capital Regional Psychiatry Associates LLC, Cardiac Surgical Associates LLC, Cardio Vascular Surgeons of North Texas PLLC, Cardiology Associates Medical Group LLC, Cardiology Clinic of San Antonio PLLC, Cardiology Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Texas PLLC, Care for Women LLC, CareNow, CareOne Home Health Services Inc., CarePartners HHA Holdings LLLP, CarePartners HHA LLLP, CarePartners Rehabilitation Hospital LLLP, CareSpot Professional Services of Middle Tennessee LLC, CareSpot of Brentwood (210 Franklin Road) LLC, CareSpot of Cool Springs (100 International Drive) LLC, CareSpot of Donelson (2372 Lebanon Road) LLC, CareSpot of Hendersonville (280 Indian Lake Boulevard) LLC, CareSpot of Hermitage (5225 Old Hickory Boulevard) LLC, CareSpot of Lebanon (1705 West Main Street) LLC, CareSpot of Mt. Juliet (S. Mt. Juliet Road) LLC, CareSpot of Murfreesboro (1340 Broad Street) LLC, CareSpot of Nashville (2001 Glen Echo Road) LLC, CareSpot of Nashville (West End Avenue) LLC, Career Staffing USA Inc., Carlin Springs Urgent Care LLC, Carolina Forest Imaging Manager LLC, Carolina Regional Surgery Center Inc., Carolina Regional Surgery Center Ltd., Cartersville Medical Center LLC, Cartersville Occupational Medicine Center LLC, Cartersville Physician Practice I LLC, Catalog360 Limited, Cedar Creek Medical Group LLC, Cedars International Cardiology Consultants LLC, Cedars Medical Center Hospitalists LLC, Centennial Cardiovascular Consultants LLC, Centennial CyberKnife Center LLC, Centennial CyberKnife Manager LLC, Centennial Heart LLC, Centennial Hospitalists LLC, Centennial Neuroscience LLC, Centennial Psychiatric Associates LLC, Centennial Surgery Center L.P., Centennial Surgical Associates LLC, Centennial Surgical Clinic LLC, Centennial Womens Group LLC, Center for Advanced Diagnostics LLC, Center for Advanced Imaging LLC, Center for Digestive Diseases LLC, Center for Occupational Medicine LLC, Centerpoint Cardiology Services LLC, Centerpoint Clinic of Blue Springs LLC, Centerpoint Hospital Based Physicians LLC, Centerpoint Medical Center of Independence LLC, Centerpoint Medical Specialists LLC, Centerpoint Orthopedics LLC, Centerpoint Physicians Group LLC, Centerpoint Womens Services LLC, Central Florida Cardiology Interpretations LLC, Central Florida Division Practice Inc., Central Florida Health Services LLC, Central Florida Imaging Services LLC, Central Florida Management Services LLC, Central Florida Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates LLC, Central Florida Physician Network LLC, Central Florida Regional Hospital Inc., Central Health Holding Company Inc., Central Pasco LLC, Central San Antonio Surgical Center Investors Ltd., Central Shared Services LLC, Central Tennessee Hospital Corporation, Central Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Physicians PLLC, Centrum Surgery Center Ltd., Charleston CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Chatsworth Hospital Corp., Chattanooga ASC Acquisition Inc., Chattanooga Diagnostic Associates LLC, Chattanooga Healthcare Network L.P., Chattanooga Healthcare Network Partner Inc., Chelsea Outpatient Centre LLP, Chesterfield Imaging LLC, Chicago Grant Hospital Inc., Childrens Multi-Specialty Group LLC, Chino Community Hospital Corporation Inc., Chippenham & Johnston-Willis Hospitals Inc., Chippenham & Johnston-Willis Sports Medicine LLC, Chippenham Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Chippenham Pediatric Specialists LLC, Chiswick Outpatient Centre LLP, Christiansburg Family Medicine LLC, Christiansburg Internal Medicine LLC, Christina Cano-Gonzalez M.D. PLLC, Chugach PT Inc., Church Street Partners, Citrus Memorial Hospital Inc., Citrus Memorial Property Management Inc., Citrus Primary Care Inc., Citrus Specialty Group Inc., Citrus Surgicenter LLC, City of San Antonio H2U Employee Health and Wellness Center PLLC, Clarksville Surgicenter LLC, Clear Creek Surgery Center LLC, Clear Lake Cardiac Catheterization Center L.P., Clear Lake Cardiac GP LLC, Clear Lake Family Physicians PLLC, Clear Lake Medical Tower Owners Association Inc., Clear Lake Merger LLC, Clear Lake Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Clear Lake Regional Medical Center Inc., Clear Lake Regional Partner LLC, Clear Lake Surgicare Ltd., ClinicServ LLC, Clinical Education Shared Services LLC, Clinishare Inc., Coastal Bend Hospital CT Services Ltd., Coastal Bend Hospital Inc., Coastal Carolina Home Care Inc., Coastal Carolina Multispecialty Associates LLC, Coastal Carolina Primary Care LLC, Coastal Healthcare Services Inc., Coastal Imaging Center L.P., Coastal Imaging Center of Gulfport Inc., Coastal Inpatient Physicians LLC, Coliseum Health Group Inc., Coliseum Health Group LLC, Coliseum Medical Center LLC, Coliseum Park Hospital Inc., Coliseum Primary Care Services LLC, Coliseum Primary Healthcare - Macon LLC, Coliseum Primary Healthcare - Riverside LLC, Coliseum Professional Associates LLC, Coliseum Same Day Surgery Center L.P., Coliseum Surgery Center L.L.C., College Park Ancillary LLC, College Park Endoscopy Center LLC, College Park Radiology LLC, Colleton Ambulatory Care LLC, Colleton Diagnostic Center LLC, Colleton Medical Anesthesia LLC, Colleton Medical Hospitalists LLC, Colleton Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery LLC, Collier County Home Health Agency Inc., Collin County Diagnostic Associates PLLC, Colorado Health Systems Inc., Columbia ASC Management L.P., Columbia Ambulatory Surgery Division Inc., Columbia Arlington Healthcare System L.L.C., Columbia Bay Area Realty Ltd., Columbia Behavioral Health Ltd., Columbia Behavioral Healthcare Inc., Columbia Behavioral Healthcare of South Florida Inc., Columbia Call Center Inc., Columbia Central Florida Division Inc., Columbia Central Group Inc., Columbia Champions Treatment Center Inc., Columbia Chicago Division Inc., Columbia Coliseum Same Day Surgery Center Inc., Columbia Development of Florida Inc., Columbia Doctors Hospital of Tulsa Inc., Columbia Eye and Specialty Surgery Center Ltd., Columbia Florida Group Inc., Columbia GP of Mesquite Inc., Columbia Good Samaritan Health System Limited Partnership, Columbia Greater Houston Division Healthcare Network Inc., Columbia Health System of Arkansas Inc., Columbia Healthcare System of Louisiana Inc., Columbia Healthcare of Central Virginia Inc., Columbia Hospital Corporation at the Medical Center, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Arlington, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Bay Area, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Central Miami, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Corpus Christi, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Fort Worth, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Houston, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Kendall, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Massachusetts Inc., Columbia Hospital Corporation of Miami, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Miami Beach, Columbia Hospital Corporation of North Miami Beach, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Broward, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Dade, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Florida, Columbia Hospital Corporation of South Miami, Columbia Hospital Corporation of Tamarac, Columbia Hospital Corporation of West Houston, Columbia Hospital Corporation-Delaware, Columbia Hospital Corporation-SMM, Columbia Hospital at Medical City Dallas Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Hospital-El Paso Ltd., Columbia Integrated Health Systems Inc., Columbia Jacksonville Healthcare System Inc., Columbia LaGrange Hospital LLC, Columbia Lake Worth Surgical Center Limited Partnership, Columbia Medical Arts Hospital Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center Dallas Southwest Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center at Lancaster Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Arlington Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Denton Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Las Colinas Inc., Columbia Medical Center of Lewisville Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of McKinney Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Center of Plano Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Medical Group - Centennial Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Daystar Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Parkridge Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Southern Hills Inc., Columbia Medical Group - Southwest Virginia Inc., Columbia Medical Group - The Frist Clinic Inc., Columbia Midtown Joint Venture, Columbia North Alaska Healthcare Inc., Columbia North Central Florida Health System Limited Partnership, Columbia North Florida Regional Medical Center Limited Partnership, Columbia North Hills Hospital Subsidiary L.P., Columbia North Texas Healthcare System L.P., Columbia North Texas Subsidiary GP LLC, Columbia North Texas Surgery Center Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Northwest Medical Center Inc., Columbia Northwest Medical Center Partners Ltd., Columbia Ocala Regional Medical Center Physician Group Inc., Columbia Ogden Medical Center Inc., Columbia Oklahoma Division Inc., Columbia Palm Beach GP LLC, Columbia Palm Beach Healthcare System Limited Partnership, Columbia Park Healthcare System Inc., Columbia Park Medical Center Inc., Columbia Parkersburg Healthcare System LLC, Columbia Pentagon City Hospital L.L.C., Columbia Physician Services - Florida Group Inc., Columbia Plaza Medical Center of Fort Worth Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Primary Care LLC, Columbia Psychiatric Management Co., Columbia Resource Network Inc., Columbia Rio Grande Healthcare L.P., Columbia Riverside Inc., Columbia South Texas Division Inc., Columbia Specialty Hospital of Dallas Subsidiary L.P., Columbia Specialty Hospitals Inc., Columbia Surgery Group Inc., Columbia Surgicare of Augusta Ltd., Columbia Tampa Bay Division Inc., Columbia Valley Healthcare System L.P., Columbia West Bank Hospital Inc., Columbia Westbank Healthcare L.P., Columbia-CSA/HS Greater Canton Area Healthcare System L.P., Columbia-CSA/HS Greater Cleveland Area Healthcare System L.P., Columbia-Georgia PT Inc., Columbia-Osceola Imaging Center Inc., Columbia-Quantum Inc., Columbia-SDH Holdings Inc., Columbia/Alleghany Regional Hospital Incorporated, Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation of Central Texas, Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation of Northern Ohio, Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation of South Carolina, Columbia/HCA Heartcare of Corpus Christi Inc., Columbia/HCA International Group Inc., Columbia/HCA John Randolph Inc., Columbia/HCA Middle East Management Company, Columbia/HCA Physician Hospital Organization Medical Center Hospital, Columbia/HCA San Clemente Inc., Columbia/HCA of Baton Rouge Inc., Columbia/HCA of Houston Inc., Columbia/HCA of New Orleans Inc., Columbia/HCA of North Texas Inc., Columbine Psychiatric Center Inc., Columbus Cardiology Inc., Columbus Cath Lab Inc., Columbus Cath Lab LLC, Columbus Doctors Hospital Inc., Commonwealth Perinatal Services LLC, Commonwealth Specialists of Kentucky LLC, Community Hospital Family Practice LLC, Comprehensive Radiation Oncology LLC, Comprehensive Radiology Management Services Ltd., Concept EFL Imaging Center LLC, Concept West EFL Imaging Center LLC, Congenital Heart Surgery Center PLLC, Conroe Hospital Corporation, Conroe Montgomery Physicians Group PLLC, Conroe Orthopedic Specialists PLLC, Conroe Partner LLC, Conroe Specialists of Texas PLLC, Continental Division I Inc., Coral Springs Surgi-Center Ltd., CoralStone Management Inc., Corpus Christi Healthcare Group Ltd., Corpus Christi Heart Clinic PLLC, Corpus Christi Primary Care Associates PLLC, Corpus Christi Psychiatric Specialists PLLC, Corpus Christi Radiation Oncology PLLC, Corpus Christi Surgery Center L.P., Corpus Christi Surgery Ltd., Corpus Christi Surgicenter LLC, Corpus Surgicare Inc., Countryside Surgery Center Ltd., Crewe Outpatient Imaging LLC, Cumberland Medical Center Inc., Cy-Fair Medical Center Hospital LLC, DFW Physicians Group PLLC, DOMC Property LLC, DS Real Estate Holdings LLC, Daleville Imaging L.P., Daleville Imaging Manager LLC, Dallas CardioThoracic Surgery Consultants PLLC, Dallas Cardiology Specialists PLLC, Dallas Hand Surgery Center PLLC, Dallas Medical Specialists PLLC, Dallas Neuro-Stroke Affiliates PLLC, Dallas Pediatric Neurosurgery Specialists PLLC, Dallas/Ft. Worth Physician LLC, Davie Medical Center LLC, Daytona Medical Center Inc., Dean 4641 LLC, Deep Purple Investments LLC, Del Sol Bariatric Clinic PLLC, Delray EFL Imaging Center LLC, Denton Cancer Center PLLC, Denton County Hospitalist Program PLLC, Denton Pediatric Physicians PLLC, Denton Regional Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Denver Clinic Surgicenter LLC, Denver Mid-Town Surgery Center Ltd., Denver Surgicenter LLC, Derry ASC Inc., Diagnostic Breast Center Inc., Diagnostic Mammography Services G.P., Diagnostic Services G.P., Dickson Surgery Center L.P., Doctors Bay Area Physician Hospital Organization, Doctors Hospital (Conroe) Inc., Doctors Hospital Columbus GA-Joint Venture, Doctors Hospital Surgery Center L.P., Doctors Hospital of Augusta LLC, Doctors Hospital of Augusta Neurology LLC, Doctors Osteopathic Medical Center Inc., Doctors Same Day Surgery Center Inc., Doctors Same Day Surgery Center Ltd., Doctors-I Inc., Doctors-II Inc., Doctors-III Inc., Doctors-IV Inc., Doctors-IX Inc., Doctors-V Inc., Doctors-VI Inc., Doctors-VII Inc., Doctors-VIII Inc., Doctors-X Inc., Doctors Memorial Hospital of Spartanburg Limited Partnership, Dominion Hospital Physicians Group LLC, Dublin Community Hospital LLC, Dublin Heart Specialists LLC, Dublin Multispecialty LLC, Dura Medical Inc., E.P. Physical Therapy Centers Inc., EASTSIDE URGENT CARE LLC, EHCA Diagnostics LLC, EHCA Eastside Occupational Medicine Center LLC, EHCA LLC, EHCA Metropolitan LLC, EHCA Parkway LLC, EHCA Peachtree LLC, EHCA West Paces LLC, EIRMC Hospitalist Services LLC, EMMC LLC, EP Health LLC, EP Holdco LLC, EPIC Development Inc., EPIC Diagnostic Centers Inc., EPIC Healthcare Management Company, EPIC Properties Inc., EPIC Surgery Centers Inc., EPSC L.P., East Falls Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery LLC, East Falls Family Medicine LLC, East Falls Plastic Surgery LLC, East Florida - DMC Inc., East Florida Behavioral Health Network LLC, East Florida Cardiology Network LLC, East Florida CareNow Urgent Care LLC, East Florida Division Inc., East Florida Emergency Physician Group LLC, East Florida Healthcare LLC, East Florida Hospitalists LLC, East Florida Imaging Holdings LLC, East Florida Primary Care LLC, East Houston Primary Care PLLC, East Houston Specialists PLLC, East Layton Internal Medicine LLC, East Orthopedics PLLC, East Pointe Hospital Inc., Eastern Idaho Brachytherapy Equipment LLC, Eastern Idaho Brachytherapy Equipment Manager LLC, Eastern Idaho Care Partners ACO LLC, Eastern Idaho Care Partners Holdings LLC, Eastern Idaho Care Partners LLC, Eastern Idaho Health Services Inc., Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center Inpatient Services LLC, Eastside Behavioral Health Associates LLC, Eastside General Surgery LLC, Eastside Heart and Vascular LLC, Eastside Medical Center LLC, Eastside Surgery Center LLC, Edmond General Surgery LLC, Edmond Hospitalists LLC, Edmond Physician Hospital Organization Inc., Edward White Hospital Inc., El Paso CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, El Paso Healthcare Provider Network, El Paso Healthcare System Ltd., El Paso Healthcare System Physician Services LLC, El Paso Nurses Unlimited Inc., El Paso Primary Care PLLC, El Paso Surgery Centers L.P., El Paso Surgicenter Inc., Eldridge Family Practitioners PLLC, Elite Family Health of Plano PLLC, Elite OB-GYN Services of El Paso PLLC, Elite Orthopaedics of El Paso PLLC, Elite Orthopaedics of Irving PLLC, Elite Orthopaedics of Plano PLLC, Elstree Outpatient Centre LLP, Emergency Physicians at Wesley Medical Center LLC, Emergency Providers Group LLC, Emergency Psychiatric Medicine PLLC, Encino Hospital Corporation Inc., Endocrinology Associates of Lees Summit LLC, Endoscopy Surgicare of Plano LLC, Endoscopy of Plano L.P., Englewood Community Hospital Auxiliary Inc., Englewood Community Hospital Inc., Envision Stakes LLC, Eye Care Surgicare Ltd. a Missouri limited partnership, FHAL LLC, FMH Health Services LLC, Fairfax Surgical Center L.P., Fairview Medical Services LLC, Fairview Park GP LLC, Fairview Park Limited Partnership, Fairview Partner LLC, Family Care Partners LLC, Family Care of E. Jackson County LLC, Family First Medicine in Brownsville PLLC, Family Health Medical Group of Overland Park LLC, Family Health Specialists of Lees Summit LLC, Family Medicine of Blacksburg LLC, Family Practice at Forest Hill LLC, Family Practice at Retreat LLC, Family Practitioners of Montgomery PLLC, Family Practitioners of Pearland PLLC, Fannin MOB LLC, Fannin MOB Property Management LLC, Far West Division Inc., Fawcett Memorial Hospital Inc., Florida Care Partners LLC, Florida Care Partners Orlando LLC, Florida Home Health Services-Private Care Inc., Florida Outpatient Surgery Center Ltd., Flower Mound Surgery Center Ltd., Focus Hand Surgicenter LLC, Foot & Ankle Specialty Services LLC, Forest Park Surgery Pavilion Inc., Forest Park Surgery Pavilion L.P., Fort Bend Hospital Inc., Fort Chiswell Family Practice LLC, Fort Myers Market Inc., Fort Pierce Immediate Care Center Inc., Fort Pierce Orthopaedics LLC, Fort Pierce Surgery Center Ltd., Fort Walton Beach Medical Center Inc., Fort Worth Investments Inc., Forward Pathology Solutions LLC, Four Rivers Medical Center PHO Inc., Frankfort Hospital Inc., Frankfort Wound Care LLC, Freeport Family Medicine LLC, Fremont Womens Health LLC, Frisco Surgicare LLC, Frisco Warren Parkway 91 Inc., Frist Clinic Express LLC, Ft. Pierce Surgicare LLC, Ft. Walton Beach Anesthesia Services LLC, G. Rowe M.D. PLLC, G. Schnider M.D. PLLC, G. Voorhees M.D. PLLC, G.P. Martin Fletcher & Associates LLC, GA PHYSICIAN SERVICES LLC, GA Urgentcare Holding LLC, GHC-Galen Health Care LLC, GI Associates of Denton PLLC, GI Associates of Lewisville PLLC, GME Services of Osceola LLC, GPCH-GP Inc., GYN-Oncology of Southwest Virginia LLC, Gainesville GYN Oncology of North Florida Regional Medical Center LLC, Gainesville Physicians LLC, GalTex LLC, Galen (Kansas) Merger LLC, Galen BH Inc., Galen Center for Professional Development Inc., Galen College of Nursing, Galen Diagnostic Multicenter Ltd., Galen GOK LLC, Galen Global Finance Inc., Galen Health Institutes Inc., Galen Health Partners Limited, Galen Holdco LLC, Galen Hospital Alaska Inc., Galen Hospital of Baytown Inc., Galen Hospital-Pembroke Pines Inc., Galen International Holdings Inc., Galen KY LLC, Galen MCS LLC, Galen MRMC LLC, Galen Medical Corporation, Galen NMC LLC, Galen NSH LLC, Galen Property LLC, Galen SOM LLC, Galen SSH LLC, Galen Virginia Hospital Corporation, Galen of Aurora Inc., Galen of Florida Inc., Galen of Illinois Inc., Galen of Kentucky Inc., Galen of Mississippi Inc., Galen of Virginia Inc., Galen of West Virginia Inc., Galen-Soch Inc., Galencare Inc., Galendeco Inc., Galichia Anesthesia Services LLC, Galichia Emergency Physicians LLC, Garden Park Community Hospital Limited Partnership, Garden Park Hospitalist Program LLC, Garden Park Investments L.P., Garden Park Physician Group - Specialty Care LLC, Garden Park Physician Group Inc., Gardens EFL Imaging Center LLC, Gastroenterology Specialists of Middle Tennessee LLC, General Hospitals of Galen Inc., General Medical Clinics Limited, General Surgeons of Houston PLLC, General Surgeons of North Richland Hills PLLC, General Surgeons of Pasadena PLLC, General and Cardiovascular Surgeons of Conroe PLLC, Generations Family Practice Inc., GenoSpace LLC, Georgia Health Holdings Inc., Georgia L.P., Georgia Psychiatric Company Inc., Glemm SA, Good Samaritan Hospital L.P., Good Samaritan Hospital LLC, Good Samaritan Surgery Center L.P., Goppert-Trinity Family Care LLC, Grace Family Practice LLC, Gramercy Eye Surgicenter LLC, Gramercy Surgery Center Ltd., Grand Strand Regional Medical Center LLC, Grand Strand Senior Health Center LLC, Grand Strand Specialty Associates LLC, Grand Strand Surgical Specialists LLC, Grandview Health Care Clinic LLC, Grant Center Hospital of Ocala Inc., Grayson Primary Care LLC, Greater Gwinnett Internal Medicine Associates LLC, Greater Gwinnett Physician Corporation, Greater Houston Preferred Provider Option Inc., Greater Tampa Bay Physician Network LLC, Greater Tampa Bay Physician Specialists LLC, Greater Tampa Bay Physicians - Pinellas LLC, Green Oaks Hospital Subsidiary L.P., Greenview Hospital Inc., Greenview PrimeCare LLC, Greenview Specialty Associates LLC, Gulf Coast Division Inc., Gulf Coast Electrophysiology Associates PLLC, Gulf Coast Inpatient Specialists LLC, Gulf Coast Medical Center Primary Care LLC, Gulf Coast Medical Ventures Inc., Gulf Coast Multispecialty Services LLC, Gulf Coast Physician Administrators Inc., Gulf Coast Provider Network Inc., Gwinnett Community Hospital Inc., Gynecology Specialists of Utah LLC, H2U Wellness Centers - Del Sol Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers - Las Palmas Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers - Medical City Dallas PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers - St. Davids Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers LLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Clear Lake Regional Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Conroe ISD PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Conroe Regional Medical Center PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  Corpus Christi PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  El Paso PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  PISD PLLC, H2U Wellness Centers  San Benito CISD PLLC, HBP Lone Star Inc., HCA - IT&S Field Operations Inc., HCA - IT&S Inventory Management Inc., HCA - IT&S PBS Field Operations Inc., HCA - IT&S TN Field Operations Inc., HCA - Information Technology & Services Inc., HCA - Raleigh Community Hospital Inc., HCA - Viera ALF LLC, HCA - WHS Progressive LLC, HCA - WHS Services LLC, HCA ASD Financial Operations LLC, HCA ASD Sales Services LLC, HCA American Finance LLC, HCA Carenow Limited, HCA Central Group Inc., HCA Central/West Texas Physicians Management LLC, HCA Chattanooga Market Inc., HCA Development Company Inc., HCA Eastern Group Inc., HCA Global Capital LLP, HCA Gulf Coast GME PLLC, HCA Health Services of California Inc., HCA Health Services of Florida Inc., HCA Health Services of Georgia Inc., HCA Health Services of Louisiana Inc., HCA Health Services of Miami Inc., HCA Health Services of Midwest Inc., HCA Health Services of New Hampshire Inc., HCA Health Services of Tennessee Inc., HCA Health Services of Texas Inc., HCA Health Services of Virginia Inc., HCA Health Services of West Virginia Inc., HCA Healthcare Mission Fund LLC, HCA Healthcare UK Limited, HCA Holdco LLC, HCA Human Resources LLC, HCA Imaging Services of North Florida Inc., HCA Inc., HCA International Holdings Limited, HCA International Limited, HCA LewisGale Regional Cancer Centers Clinical Co-Management Company LLC, HCA Long Term Health Services of Miami Inc., HCA Luxembourg 1 Sarl, HCA Luxembourg 2 Sarl, HCA Luxembourg Equities Sarl, HCA Luxembourg Finance Limited, HCA Luxembourg Investments Sarl, HCA Management Services L.P., HCA Medical City Limited, HCA Medical Services Inc., HCA Midwest Comprehensive Care Inc., HCA Outpatient Clinic Services of Miami Inc., HCA Outpatient Imaging Services Group Inc., HCA Patient Safety Organization LLC, HCA Pearland GP Inc., HCA Physician Services Inc., HCA Plano Imaging Inc., HCA Property GP LLC, HCA Psychiatric Company, HCA Purchasing Limited, HCA Realty Inc., HCA Richmond Cardiac Clinical Co-Management Company LLC, HCA SF LLC, HCA SFB 1 LLC, HCA Sarasota Orthopedic and Spine Clinical Co-Management Company LLC, HCA Squared LLC, HCA Staffing Limited, HCA Swiss Capital 1 LLP, HCA Swiss Capital 2 LLP, HCA Switzerland Finance GmbH, HCA Switzerland Holding GmbH, HCA Switzerland Limited, HCA UK Capital Limited, HCA UK Holdings Limited, HCA UK Investments Limited, HCA UK Limited, HCA UK Services Limited, HCA Wesley Rehabilitation Hospital Inc., HCA Western Group Inc., HCA-Access Healthcare Holdings LLC, HCA-Access Healthcare Partner Inc., HCA-California Urgent Care Holdings LLC, HCA-EMS Holdings LLC, HCA-EmCare Holdings LLC, HCA-Georgia Urgent Care Holdings LLC, HCA-HBPS Holdings LLC, HCA-HealthONE LLC, HCA-Solis Holdings Inc., HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of Continental LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of Gulf Coast LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of North Texas LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Service Holdings of TriStar LLC, HCA-Solis Mammography Services LLC, HCA-Solis Master LLC, HCA-Urgent Care Holdings LLC, HCAPS Anesthesia Manager LLC, HCAPS Conroe Affiliation Inc., HCOL Inc., HD&S Corp. Successor Inc., HDH Thoracic Surgeons LLC, HHBY Holdings LLC, HHNC LLC, HICCH-SCL LLC, HM Acquisition LLC, HM OMCOS LLC, HMMG 1226 LLC, HPG Energy L.P., HPG Enterprises LLC, HPG GP LLC, HPG Solutions LLC, HSS Holdco LLC, HSS Systems LLC, HSS Virginia L.P., HTI Gulf Coast Inc., HTI Health Services of North Carolina Inc., HTI Hospital Holdings Inc., HTI MOB LLC, HTI MSO LLC, HTI Memorial Hospital Corporation, HTI Physician Services of Utah Inc., HWCA PLLC, Hamilton Memorial Hospital Inc., Hamsard 3160 Limited, Harley Street Clinic @ The Groves LLP, Hathor Chelsea Ltd., Healdsburg General Hospital Inc., Health Care Indemnity Inc., Health Insight Capital LLC, Health International Billing Partners Limited, Health Midwest Medical Group Inc., Health Midwest Office Facilities Corporation, Health Midwest Ventures Group Inc., Health Partners of Kansas Inc., Health Service Partners Inc., Health Services (Delaware) Inc., Health Services Merger Inc., Health to You LLC, HealthCoast Physician Group LLC, HealthONE Aurora Investment LLC, HealthONE Care Partners LLC, HealthONE CareNow Urgent Care LLC, HealthONE Clear Creek LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Bariatric Medicine LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Behavioral Health LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Cancer Care LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Cancer Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Cardiovascular LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Medical Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Neurosciences LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Obstetrics and Gynecology LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Occupational Medicine LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Oncology Hematology LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Orthopedic Specialists LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Otolaryngology Specialists LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Pediatric Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Primary Care LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Spine Specialists LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Spine Surgeons LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Surgery Neurological LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Surgical Specialties LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Transplant Services LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Womens Services LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services - Youth Rehabilitation LLC, HealthONE Clinic Services LLC, HealthONE High Street Primary Care Center LLC, HealthONE IRL Pathology Services LLC, HealthONE Institutes for Clinical Research LLC, HealthONE Lowry LLC, HealthONE Radiation Therapy at Red Rocks LLC, HealthONE Radiation Therapy at Thornton LLC, HealthONE Ridge View Endoscopy Center LLC, HealthONE Surgicare of Ridge View LLC, HealthONE Urologic LLC, HealthONE at Breckenridge LLC, HealthONE of Denver Inc., HealthOne Heart Care LLC, HealthOne Lincoln Investment LLC, HealthOne Westside Investment LLC, HealthTrust Europe Company Limited, HealthTrust Europe LLP, HealthTrust Locums Inc., HealthTrust Workforce Solutions LLC, Healthcare Oklahoma Inc., Healthcare Purchasing Alliance LLC, Healthcare Sales National Management Services Group LLC, Healthcare Technology Assessment Corporation, Healthco LLC, Healthnet of Kentucky LLC, Healthserv Acquisition LLC, Healthtrust Inc. - The Hospital Company, Healthtrust MOB Tennessee LLC, Healthtrust Purchasing Group L.P., Healthtrust Utah Management Services Inc., Healthy State Inc., Heart Specialist of North Texas PLLC, Heart of America ASC LLC, Heart of America Surgicenter LLC, Heartcare of Texas Ltd., Hearthstone Home Health Inc., Heartland Womens Group at Wesley LLC, Heathrow Imaging LLC, Heathrow Internal Medicine LLC, Hendersonville Hospital Corporation, Hendersonville Hospitalist Services Inc., Hendersonville OB/GYN LLC, Hendersonville ODC LLC, Hendersonville Primary Care LLC, Henrico Doctors Hospital - Forest Campus Property LLC, Henrico Doctors Neurology Associates LLC, Henrico Doctors OB GYN Specialists LLC, Henrico Surgical Specialists LLC, Heritage Family Care LLC, Heritage Hospital Inc., Heritage Medical Care LLC, Hermitage Primary Care LLC, Hidalgo County Family Practitioners PLLC, Hidden Lakes Health Center PLLC, Highlands Regional Medical Center, Hip & Joint Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Homecare North Inc., Hometrust Management Services Inc., Horizon Orthopedics LLC, Horizon Surgical LLC, Hospital Corp. LLC, Hospital Corporation of America, Hospital Corporation of Lake Worth, Hospital Corporation of Tennessee, Hospital Corporation of Utah, Hospital Development Properties Inc., Hospital Partners Merger LLC, Hospital Realty Corporation, Hospital-Based CRNA Services Inc., Hospitalists at Centennial Medical Center LLC, Hospitalists at Fairview Park LLC, Hospitalists at Greenview Regional Hospital LLC, Hospitalists at Horizon Medical Center LLC, Hospitalists at Parkridge LLC, Hospitalists at StoneCrest LLC, Hospitalists at Wesley Medical Center LLC, Hospitalists of the Wabash Valley LLC, Houston - PPH LLC, Houston CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, Houston Healthcare Holdings Inc., Houston NW Manager LLC, Houston Northwest Concessions L.L.C., Houston Northwest Operating Company L.L.C., Houston Northwest Surgical Partners Inc., Houston Obstetrics and Gynecology for Women PLLC, Houston Pediatric Specialty Group PLLC, Houston Urologic Surgicenter LLC, Houston Womans Hospital Partner LLC, ICU Associates of West Houston PLLC, IMX Holdings LLC, IRL Pathology Services MidAmerica LLC, Idaho Behavioral Health Services LLC, Idaho Physician Services Inc., Illinois Psychiatric Hospital Company Inc., Imaging Realty LLC, Imaging Services of Appomattox LLC, Imaging Services of Jacksonville LLC, Imaging Services of Louisiana LLC, Imaging Services of Louisiana Manager LLC, Imaging Services of Orlando LLC, Imaging Services of Richmond LLC, Imaging Services of Roanoke LLC, Imaging Services of West Boynton LLC, InVivoLink Inc., Independence Neurosurgery Services LLC, Independence Regional Medical Group LLC, Independence Surgicare Inc., Indian Path Hospital Inc., Indianapolis Hospital Partner LLC, Institute for Womens Health and Body LLC, Institute of Advanced ENT Surgery LLC, Integrated Regional Lab LLC, Integrated Regional Laboratories LLP, Integrated Regional Laboratories Pathology Services LLC, Intensive Care Consortium Inc., Internal Medicine Associates of Huntsville PLLC, Internal Medicine Associates of Southern Hills LLC, Internal Medicine of Blacksburg LLC, Internal Medicine of Pasadena PLLC, Internist Associates of Houston PLLC, Isleworth Partners Inc., J. M. Garcia M.D. PLLC, JCSH LLC, JDGC Management LLC, JFK Internal Medicine Faculty Practice LLC, JFK Medical Center Limited Partnership, JPM AA Housing LLC, Jackson County Medical Group LLC, Jackson County Pulmonary Medical Group LLC, Jacksonville CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Jacksonville Multispecialty Services LLC, Jacksonville Surgery Center Ltd., James River Internists LLC, John Randolph Family Practice LLC, John Randolph OB/GYN LLC, John Randolph Surgeons LLC, Johnson County Neurology LLC, Johnson County Surgery Center L.P., Johnson County Surgicenter L.L.C., Jordan Family Health L.L.C., Jupiter EFL Imaging Center LLC, KC Pain ASC LLC, KC Surgicare LLC, KPH-Consolidation Inc., Kansas CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Kansas City Cardiac Arrhythmia Research LLC, Kansas City Gastroenterology & Hepatology Physicians Group LLC, Kansas City Neurology Associates LLC, Kansas City Pulmonology Practice LLC, Kansas City Surgery Center Properties LLC, Kansas City Vascular & General Surgery Group LLC, Kansas City Womens Clinic Group LLC, Kansas Healthserv LLC, Kansas Pulmonary and Sleep Specialists LLC, Kansas Trauma and Critical Care Specialists LLC, Kathy L. Summers M.D. PLLC, Kendall Healthcare Group Ltd., Kendall Regional Medical Center LLC, Kendall Regional Urgent Care LLC, Kennedale Primary Care PLLC, Kingwood Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Kingwood Surgery Center LLC, Kingwood Surgicenter LLC, Kissimmee Surgicare Ltd., Kyle Primary Care PLLC, L E Corporation, LAD Imaging LLC, LGMC Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, LOC @ The Christie LLP, LOC @ The London Bridge Hospital LLP, LOC Partnership LLP, LPN TeleBehavioral Health PLLC, Lafayette OB Hospitalists LLC, Lafayette Urogynecology & Urology Center LLC, Lake City Imaging LLC, Lake City Regional Medical Group LLC, Lake Forest Family Health PLLC, Lakeside Radiology LLC, Lakeside Womens Services LLC, Lakeview Cardiology Specialists LLC, Lakeview Hospital Physician Services LLC, Lakeview Internal Medicine LLC, Lakeview Medical Center LLC, Lakeview Regional Medical Center Inpatient Services LLC, Lakeview Regional Physician Group LLC, Lakeview Urology & General Surgery LLC, Lakewood Surgicare Inc., Laredo Medco LLC, Largo Medical Center Inc., Largo Physician Group LLC, Las Colinas Primary Care PLLC, Las Colinas Surgery Center Ltd., Las Encinas Hospital, Las Palmas Del Sol Cardiology PLLC, Las Palmas Del Sol Internal Medicine PLLC, Las Palmas Del Sol Urgent Care PLLC, Las Vegas ASC LLC, Las Vegas Surgicare Inc., Las Vegas Surgicare Ltd. a Nevada Limited Partnership, Lawnwood Cardiovascular Surgery LLC, Lawnwood Healthcare Specialists LLC, Lawnwood Medical Center Inc., Layton Family Practice LLC, Leaders in Oncology Care Limited, Leadership Healthcare Holdings II L.P. L.L.P., Leadership Healthcare Holdings L.P. L.L.P., Lees Summit Family Care LLC, Leslie Cohan M.D. PLLC, Lewis-Gale Hospital Incorporated, Lewis-Gale Medical Center LLC, Lewis-Gale Physicians LLC, Lewisville Primary Care PLLC, Lewisville Surgicare LLC, Lincoln Surgery Center LLC, Live Oak Immediate Care Center LLC, London Oncology Clinic LLP, London Pathology Limited, London Radiography & Radiotherapy Services Limited, Lone Peak Hospital Inc., Lone Star Intensivists at Gulf Coast PLLC, Lonestar Provider Network, Longview Regional Physician Hospital Organization Inc., Lorain County Surgery Center Ltd., Los Gatos Surgical Center a California Limited Partnership, Los Robles Regional Medical Center, Los Robles Regional Medical Center MOB LLC, Los Robles SurgiCenter LLC, Loudoun Surgery Center LLC, Louisiana Psychiatric Company Inc., Loveland Surgicenter LLC, Low Country Health Services Inc. of the Southeast, Lowry Surgicenter LLC, M. Jamshidi D.O. PLLC, MCA Investment Company, MCA-CTMC Holdings LLC, MEC Endoscopy LLC, MFA G.P. LLC, MFM Fact PLLC, MGH Medical Inc., MH Anesthesiology Physicians LLC, MH Angel Medical Center LLLP, MH Asheville Specialty Hospital LLC, MH Blue Ridge Medical Center LLLP, MH Eckerd Living Center LLLP, MH Highlands-Cashiers Medical Center LLLP, MH Hospital Holdings Inc., MH Hospital Manager LLC, MH Master Holdings LLLP, MH Master LLC, MH McDowell Imaging LLLP, MH Mission Hospital LLLP, MH Mission Hospital McDowell LLLP, MH Mission Imaging LLLP, MH Physician Services LLC, MH Transylvania Imaging LLLP, MH Transylvania Regional Hospital LLLP, MHS Partnership Holdings JSC Inc., MHS Partnership Holdings SDS Inc., MHS SC Partner L.L.C., MHS Surgery Centers L.P., MMC Sleep Lab Management LLC, MOSC Sports Medicine Inc., MOVCO Inc., MP Management LLC, MRT&C Inc., MSL Acquisition LLC, MVH Professional Services LLC, Macon Healthcare LLC, Macon Northside Health Group LLC, Macon Northside Hospital LLC, Macon Psychiatric Hospitalists LLC, Madison Behavioral Health LLC, Mainland Family Medicine PLLC, Mainland Multi-Specialty Group PLLC, Mainland Primary Care Physicians PLLC, Management Services Holdings Inc., Manatee Surgicare Ltd., Marietta Outpatient Medical Building Inc., Marietta Outpatient Surgery Ltd., Marietta Surgical Center Inc., Marion Community Hospital Inc., Mark Gottesman M.D. PLLC, Martin Fletcher & Associates L.P., Martin Fletcher Associates Holdings Inc., Mary Alice Cowan M.D. PLLC, Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialists of Corpus Christi PLLC, Maternal Fetal Services of Utah LLC, Maury County Behavioral Health LLC, Mayhill Cancer Center LLC, McAllen Comprehensive Upper Extremity Center PLLC, McKinney Surgeons PLLC, Mechanicsville Imaging LLC, Mecklenburg Surgical Land Development Ltd., Med City Dallas Outpatient Surgery Center L.P., Med Corp. Inc., Med Group - Southern Hills Hospitalists LLC, Med-Center Hosp./Houston Inc., Med-Point of New Hampshire Inc., Medi Flight of Oklahoma LLC, MediCredit Inc., MediPurchase Inc., MediStone Healthcare Ventures Inc., MediVision Inc., MediVision of Mecklenburg County Inc., MediVision of Tampa Inc., Medical Arts Hospital of Texarkana Inc., Medical Associates of Ocala LLC, Medical Care America Colorado LLC, Medical Care America LLC, Medical Care Financial Services Corp., Medical Care Real Estate Finance Inc., Medical Care Surgery Center Inc., Medical Center - West Inc., Medical Center Imaging Inc., Medical Center Surgery Associates L.P., Medical Center of Baton Rouge Inc., Medical Center of Plano Partner LLC, Medical Center of Port St. Lucie Inc., Medical Center of Santa Rosa Inc., Medical Center of Southwest Florida LLC, Medical Centers of Oklahoma LLC, Medical City Dallas Hospital Inc., Medical City Dallas Partner LLC, Medical City Dallas Primary Care PLLC, Medical City Frisco, Medical City OB-GYN PLLC, Medical City Pediatrics PLLC, Medical City Specialty Surgicenter of Dallas LLC, Medical City Surgery Center of Alliance LLC, Medical City Surgery Center of Frisco LLC, Medical City Surgery Center of Lewisville LLC, Medical City Transplant PLLC, Medical Corporation of America, Medical Group - Dickson Inc., Medical Group - Southern Hills of Brentwood LLC, Medical Group - Southern Hills of Nolensville LLC, Medical Group - StoneCrest FP Inc., Medical Group - StoneCrest Inc., Medical Group - Stonecrest Pulmonology LLC, Medical Group - Summit Inc., Medical Imaging Inc., Medical Imaging of Colorado LLC, Medical Office Buildings of Kansas LLC, Medical Oncology Associates LLC, Medical Partners of North Florida LLC, Medical Plaza Ambulatory Surgery Center Associates L.P., Medical Specialties Inc., Memorial Family Practice Associates LLC, Memorial Health Primary Care at St. Johns Bluff LLC, Memorial Healthcare Group Inc., Memorial Neurosurgery Group LLC, Memorial Satilla Specialists LLC, Memorial University Medical Center, Menorah Medical Group LLC, Menorah Urgent Care LLC, Mercy ASC LLC, Metairie Primary Care Associates LLC, Methodist Ambulatory Surgery Center of Boerne LLC, Methodist Ambulatory Surgery Center of Landmark LLC, Methodist Cardiology Physicians, Methodist CareNow Physician Associates, Methodist CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, Methodist Healthcare System of San Antonio Ltd. L.L.P., Methodist Inpatient Management Group, Methodist Medical Center ASC L.P., Methodist Physician Alliance, Methodist Physician Practice Services LLC, Methodist Physician Practices PLLC, Metroplex Surgicenters Inc., Metropolitan Multispecialty Physicians Group Inc., Miami Beach EFL Imaging Center LLC, Miami Beach Healthcare Group Ltd., Miami Dade Surgical Specialists LLC, Miami Lakes Surgery Center Ltd., Miami-Dade Cardiology Consultants LLC, Michael Mann M.D. PLLC, Mid-America Surgery Center LLC, Mid-America Surgery Institute LLC, Mid-Cities Surgi-Center Inc., Mid-Continent Health Services Inc., MidAmerica Division Inc., MidAmerica Oncology LLC, Middle Georgia Hospital LLC, Middle Georgia Urgent Care Services LLC, Middle Tennessee Neurology LLC, Midtown Diagnostics LLC, Midwest Cardiology Specialists LLC, Midwest Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery LLC, Midwest Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Kansas LLC, Midwest Division - ACH LLC, Midwest Division - CMC LLC, Midwest Division - LRHC LLC, Midwest Division - LSH LLC, Midwest Division - MCI LLC, Midwest Division - MMC LLC, Midwest Division - OPRMC LLC, Midwest Division - RBH LLC, Midwest Division - RMC LLC, Midwest Division Spine Care LLC, Midwest Doctors Group LLC, Midwest Heart & Vascular Specialists LLC, Midwest Holdings Inc., Midwest Infectious Disease Specialists LLC, Midwest Medicine Associates LLC, Midwest Metropolitan Physicians Group LLC, Midwest Oncology Associates LLC, Midwest Trauma Services LLC, Midwest Womens Healthcare Specialists LLC, Mikrod Services Inc., Mill Creek Outpatient Services LLC, Millenium Health Care of Oklahoma Inc., Mission Bay Memorial Hospital Inc., Mission Community Anesthesiology Specialists LLC, Mission Employer Solutions LLC, Mission Health, Mission Health Partners Inc., Missouri Healthcare System L.P., Mobile Corps. Inc., Mobile Heartbeat, Mobile Heartbeat LLC, Montgomery Cancer Center LLC, Montgomery Hospitalists LLC, Montgomery Regional Hospital Inc., Montgomery Surgery Associates LLC, Mountain Division - CVH LLC, Mountain Division Inc., Mountain View Hospital Inc., Mountain View MRI Associates Ltd., Mountain West Surgery Center LLC, MountainStar Behavioral Health LLC, MountainStar Brigham General Surgery LLC, MountainStar Canyon Surgical Clinic LLC, MountainStar Cardiology Ogden Regional LLC, MountainStar Cardiology St. Marks LLC, MountainStar Intensivist Services LLC, MountainStar Medical Group - Cache Valley LLC, MountainStar Medical Group - Ogden Regional Medical Center LLC, MountainStar Medical Group - St. Marks Hospital LLC, MountainStar Medical Group Neurosurgery-St. Marks LLC, MountainStar Medical Group Timpanogos Primary Care LLC, MountainStar Medical Group Timpanogos Specialty Care LLC, MountainStar Specialty Services LLC, MountainStar Urgent Care LLC, MountainView GME Primary Care LLC, Mountainstar Brigham OBGYN LLC, Mountainstar Cardiovascular Services LLC, Mountainstar Ogden Pediatrics LLC, Movement Disorders of North Texas PLLC, Mt. Ogden Utah Surgical Center LLC, NPAS Inc., NPAS Solutions LLC, NT Urgent Care PLLC, NTGP LLC, NTMC Management Company, NTMC Venture Inc., NTX Pathology Program PLLC, Nashville Psychiatric Company Inc., Nashville Shared Services General Partnership, Nashville Surgicenter LLC, Natchez Medical Associates LLC, Natchez Surgery Center LLC, National Association of Senior Friends, National Contact Center Management Group LLC, National Patient Account Services Inc., National Transfer Center Management Services LLC, Navarro Memorial Hospital Inc., NeighborMD Management LLC, Network MS of Florida Inc., Network Management Services Inc., Neuro Affiliates Company, Neuro-Hospitalist of Clear Lake PLLC, NeuroHospitalist of McAllen PLLC, Neurological Eye Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Neurological Specialists PLLC, Neurological Specialists of McKinney PLLC, Neurology Associates of Hendersonville LLC, Neurology Associates of Kansas LLC, Neurosurgery Atlanta LLC, Neurosurgery of Kingwood PLLC, Neurosurgical Associates of North Texas PLLC, Neurosurgical Specialists of El Paso PLLC, Neurosurgical Specialists of North Texas PLLC, Nevada Surgery Center of Southern Hills L.P., Nevada Surgicare of Southern Hills LLC, Nevada Urgent Care Holdings Inc., New Iberia Healthcare LLC, New Iberia Holdings Inc., New Port Richey Hospital Inc., New Port Richey Surgery Center Ltd., New Rose Holding Company Inc., Niceville Family Practice LLC, North Augusta Imaging Management LLC, North Augusta Imaging Services LLC, North Augusta Rehab Health Center LLC, North Austin Plastic Surgery Associates PLLC, North Austin Surgery Center L.P., North Brandon Imaging LLC, North Central Florida Health System Inc., North Central Methodist ASC L.P., North Charleston Diagnostic Imaging Center LLC, North Florida Cancer Center Lake City LLC, North Florida Cancer Center Live Oak LLC, North Florida Cancer Center Tallahassee LLC, North Florida Division I Inc., North Florida Division Practice Inc., North Florida GI Center GP Inc., North Florida GI Center Ltd., North Florida Immediate Care Center Inc., North Florida Neurosurgery LLC, North Florida Outpatient Imaging Center Ltd., North Florida Physician Services Inc., North Florida Physicians LLC, North Florida Radiation Oncology LLC, North Florida Regional Company Care LLC, North Florida Regional Freestanding Surgery Center L.P., North Florida Regional Investments Inc., North Florida Regional Medical Center Inc., North Florida Regional Psychiatry LLC, North Florida Regional Trauma LLC, North Florida Rehab Investments LLC, North Florida Surgical Associates LLC, North Georgia Primary Care Group LLC, North Hills Cardiac Catheterization Center L.P., North Hills Catheterization Lab LLC, North Hills Orthopaedic Surgeons PLLC, North Hills Surgicare L.P., North Houston - TRMC LLC, North Miami Beach Surgery Center Limited Partnership, North Miami Beach Surgical Center LLC, North Palm Beach County Surgery Center LLC, North River Physician Network LLC, North Shore Specialists of Texas PLLC, North Suburban Spine Center L.P., North Tampa Imaging LLC, North Texas - MCA LLC, North Texas Cardiology PLLC, North Texas Craniofacial Fellowship Program PLLC, North Texas Division Inc., North Texas General L.P., North Texas Geriatrics PLLC, North Texas Heart Surgery Center PLLC, North Texas Internal Medicine Specialists PLLC, North Texas Medical Center Inc., North Texas Neuro Stroke OP PLLC, North Texas Pulmonary Critical Care PLLC, North Texas Sports and Orthopedics Center PLLC, North Texas Stroke Center PLLC, North Texas of Hope PLLC, North Transfer Center LLC, Northeast Florida Cancer Services LLC, Northeast Methodist Surgicare Ltd., Northeast PHO Inc., Northern Utah Healthcare Corporation, Northern Utah Healthcare Imaging Holdco LLC, Northern Utah Imaging LLC, Northern Virginia CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Northern Virginia Community Hospital LLC, Northern Virginia Hospital Corporation, Northern Virginia Surgicenter LLC, Northlake Medical Center LLC, Northlake Physician Practice Network Inc., Northlake Surgical Center L.P., Northlake Surgicare Inc., Northside MRI Inc., Northwest Fla. Home Health Agency Inc., Northwest Florida Healthcare Systems Inc., Northwest Florida Multispecialty Physicians LLC, Northwest Florida Primary Care LLC, Northwest Medical Center Inc., Notami (Opelousas) Inc., Notami Hospitals LLC, Notami Hospitals of Florida Inc., Notami Hospitals of Louisiana Inc., Notami Hospitals of Missouri Inc., Notami LLC, Notco LLC, Nuclear Diagnosis Inc., OB Hospitalists of Womans Hospital PLLC, OB/GYN of Brownsville PLLC, OB/Gyn Associates of Denton PLLC, OBS Diagnostic and Treatment Centre LLP, ODP Holdings LLC, ODP Manager LLC, ODP Properties LLC, OHH Imaging Services LLC, OPRMC-HBP LLC, Oak Hill Acquisition Inc., Oak Hill Family Care LLC, Oak Hill Hospitalists LLC, Oakwood Surgery Center Ltd. LLP, Ocala Health Company Care LLC, Ocala Health Imaging Services LLC, Ocala Health Primary Care LLC, Ocala Health Surgical Group LLC, Ocala Health Trauma LLC, Ocala Regional Outpatient Services Inc., Ocala Stereotactic Radiosurgery LLC, Ocala Stereotactic Radiosurgery Partner LLC, Occupational Health Services of PRH LLC, Occupational and Family Medicine of South Texas, Ogden Imaging LLC, Ogden Internal Medicine & Urology LLC, Ogden Regional Health Plan Inc., Ogden Regional Medical Center Professional Billing LLC, Ogden Senior Center LLC, Ogden Tomotherapy LLC, Ogden Tomotherapy Manager LLC, Okaloosa Hospital Inc., Okeechobee Hospital Inc., Oklahoma Holding Company LLC, Oklahoma Outpatient Surgery Limited Partnership, Oklahoma Physicians - Medical Specialties LLC, Oklahoma Physicians - Obstetrics and Gynecology LLC, Oklahoma Physicians - Primary Care LLC, Oklahoma Physicians - Surgical Specialties LLC, Oklahoma Surgicare Inc., Old Fort Village LLC, On-Site Primary Care PLLC, Oncology Services of Corpus Christi LLC, Oncology Services of Corpus Christi Manager LLC, OneSourceMed Inc., Online Pathology Services Limited, Orange County Healthcare LLC, Orange Park Hospitalists LLC, Orange Park Medical Center Inc., Orlando CareNow Urgent Care LLC, Orlando Outpatient Surgical Center Inc., Orlando Outpatient Surgical Center Ltd., Orlando Surgicare Ltd., Orthopaedic Specialty Associates L.P., Orthopaedic Sports Specialty Associates Inc., Orthopedic Hospital Ltd., Orthopedics Specialists LLC, Osceola Neurological Associates LLC, Osceola Physician Network LLC, Osceola Regional Hospital Inc., Osceola Regional Hospitalists LLC, Osceola Surgical Associates LLC, Outpatient Cardiovascular Center of Central Florida LLC, Outpatient GP LLC, Outpatient Services - LAD LLC, Outpatient Services Holdings Inc., Outpatient Surgical Services Ltd., Outpatient Womens and Childrens Surgery Center Ltd., Overland Park Cardiovascular Inc., Overland Park Medical Specialists LLC, Overland Park Orthopedics LLC, Overland Park Surgical Specialties LLC, Oviedo Medical Center LLC, Ozarks Medical Services Inc., P&L Associates, P/SL Hyperbaric Partnership, PET CT LLP, PMM Inc., POH Holdings LLC, PSG Delegated Services LLC, PTS Solutions LLC, Pacific Partners Management Services Inc., Palm Beach EFL Imaging Center LLC, Palm Beach General Surgery LLC, Palm Beach Healthcare System Inc., Palm Beach Hospitalists Program LLC, Palmer Medical Center LLC, Palms West Gastroenterology LLC, Palms West Hospital Limited Partnership, Palms West Surgery Center Ltd., Paragon Physicians Hospital Organization of South Texas Inc., Paragon SDS Inc., Paragon Surgery Centers of Texas Inc., Paragon WSC Inc., Paragon of Texas Health Properties Inc., Parallon Business Solutions LLC, Parallon Enterprises LLC, Parallon Health Information Solutions LLC, Parallon Holdings LLC, Parallon Payroll Solutions LLC, Parallon Physician Services LLC, Parallon Revenue Cycle Services Inc., Park Central Surgical Center Ltd., Park Ridge Surgery Center LLC, Park South Imaging Center Ltd., Park View Insurance Company, Parkersburg SJ Holdings Inc., Parkland Hospitalists Program LLC, Parkland Oncology LLC, Parkland Physician Services Inc., Parkridge East Specialty Associates LLC, Parkridge Hospitalists Inc., Parkridge Medical Associates LLC, Parkridge Medical Center Inc., Parkridge Professionals Inc., Parkside Surgery Center Inc., Parkway Cardiac Center Ltd., Parkway Hospital Inc., Parkway Surgery Services Ltd., Parthenon Insurance Company Limited, Pasadena Bayshore Hospital Inc., PatientKeeper, PatientKeeper Inc., Patients First Neurology LLC, Pavilion 2 Condominium Property LLC, Pavilion 2 Medical Office Building Condominium Association Inc., Pavilion Surgicenter LLC, Peach State Anesthesia Partners LLC, Pearland Institute for Womens Health PLLC, Pearland Partner LLC, Pediatric Anesthesia Consultants of San Antonio PLLC, Pediatric Cardiac Intensivists of North Texas PLLC, Pediatric Critical Care of Clear Lake PLLC, Pediatric Hospitalists of Conroe PLLC, Pediatric Intensivist Group LLC, Pediatric Intensivists of El Paso PLLC, Pediatric Intensivists of North Texas PLLC, Pediatric Specialists of Clear Lake PLLC, Pediatric Specialty Clinic LLC, Pediatric Surgicare Inc., Pediatrics of Greater Houston PLLC, Pensacola Primary Care Inc., Physician Associates of Corporate Woods LLC, Physicians Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Physicians West Surgicenter LLC, Pinellas Medical LLC, Pinnacle Physician Network LLC, Pioneer Medical LLC, Plains Healthcare System Inc., Plano Ambulatory Surgery Associates L.P., Plano Heart Institute L.P., Plano Heart Management LLC, Plano Surgery Center - GP LLC, Plano Surgery Center Real Estate LLC, Plano Surgicenter Real Estate Manager LLC, Plano Urology PLLC, Plantation General Hospital L.P., Plaza Medical Specialists PLLC, Plaza Primary Care PLLC, Plaza Transplant Center PLLC, Podiatry of Clear Lake PLLC, Poinciana Medical Center Inc., Port St. Lucie Surgery Center Ltd., Portland Primary Care LLC, Portsmouth Regional Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC, Portsmouth Surgicenter LLC, Preferred Hospitals Inc., Preferred Works WC LLC, Premier ASC LLC, Premier Medical Management Ltd., Primary Care Medical Associates Inc., Primary Care Plano PLLC, Primary Care Services of Orlando LLC, Primary Care South PLLC, Primary Care West PLLC, Primary Care of West End LLC, Primary Health Asset Holdings Ltd., Primary Health Group Inc., Primary Health Inc., Primary Health Network of South Texas, Primary Health Physicians PLLC, Primary Medical Management Inc., Proaxis Therapy HealthOne LLC, Provident Professional Building Condominium Association Inc., Psychiatry Services of Osceola LLC, Pulaski Community Hospital Inc., Pulaski Urology LLC, Pulmonary Renal Intensivist Group LLC, Putnam Community Medical Center of North Florida LLC, Putnam Hospital Inc., Putnam Radiation Oncology LLC, Putnam Radiation Oncology Manager LLC, Putnam Surgical Group LLC, Quantum/Bellaire Imaging Ltd., Quick Care Centers LLC, Quivira Internal Medicine Inc., RCH LLC, RMC - Pulmonary LLC, RMC Transplant Physicians LLC, RMCA Professionals Mgmt LLC, ROi CPS LLC, Radford Family Medicine LLC, Radiation Oncology Center of Thornton LLC, Radiation Oncology Manager LLC, Raleigh Community Medical Office Building Ltd., Rapides After Hours Clinic L.L.C., Rapides Healthcare System L.L.C., Rapides Regional Physician Group LLC, Rapides Regional Physician Group Primary Care LLC, Rapides Regional Physician Group Specialty Care LLC, Rapides Surgery Center LLC, Raulerson GYN LLC, Raulerson Gastroenterology LLC, Raulerson Primary Care LLC, Raymore Medical Group LLC, Red Rock Holdco LLC, Red Rock at Smoke Ranch LLC, Red Rocks Surgery Center LLC, Redmond Anesthesia Services LLC, Redmond Hospital Services LLC, Redmond Neurosurgery LLC, Redmond Park Health Services Inc., Redmond Park Hospital LLC, Redmond Physician Practice Company, Redmond Specialty Services LLC, Regional Hospital Healthcare Partners LLC, Research Cardiology Associates LLC, Research Family Physicians LLC, Research Internal Medicine LLC, Research Neurology Associates LLC, Research Neuroscience Institute LLC, Resource Optimization & Innovation L.L.C., Reston Hospital Center LLC, Reston Hospitalists LLC, Reston Surgery Center L.P., Retreat Cardiology LLC, Retreat Hospital LLC, Retreat Internal Medicine LLC, Retreat Surgical Associates LLC, Rhodes Limited-Liability Company, Richmond Imaging Employer Corp., Richmond Multi-Specialty LLC, Richmond Pediatric Surgeons LLC, Ridgeline Surgicenter LLC, Rim Building Partners L.P., Rio Grande Healthcare MSO Inc., Rio Grande NP Inc., Rio Grande Regional Hospital Inc., Rio Grande Valley Cardiology PLLC, Rio Grande Valley CareNow Urgent Care PLLC, Rio Grande Valley Urology PLLC, Riverside CyberKnife Manager LLC, Riverside Healthcare System L.P., Riverside Holdings Inc., Riverside Hospital Inc., Riverside Imaging LLC, Riverwalk ASC LLC, Roanoke Imaging LLC, Roanoke Neurosurgery LLC, Roanoke Surgery Center L.P., Roanoke Valley Gynecology LLC, Robotic Radiosurgery LLP, Rocky Mountain Pediatric Hematology Oncology LLC, Rocky Mountain Surgery Center LLC, Rome Imaging Center Limited Partnership, Roodlane Medical Limited, Rose Ambulatory Surgery Center L.P., Rose Health Partners LLC, Rose Medical Plaza Ltd., Rose POB Inc., Rosewood Medical Center Inc., Rosewood Professional Building Ltd., Round Rock Hospital Inc., Round Rock Trauma Surgeons PLLC, Royal Oaks Surgery Center L.P., S.A. 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Norbord Inc. manufactures and sells wood-based panels for retail chains, contractor supply yards, and industrial manufacturers primarily in North America and Europe. The company offers oriented strand boards for use in sheathing, flooring, and roofing in home construction applications; particleboards that are used in flooring and other construction applications; and medium density fiberboards for use in cabinet doors, moldings, and interior wall paneling applications, as well as related value-added products for use in the construction of new homes, and renovation and repair of existing structures. It markets its products under the Durastrand pointSIX, Pinnacle, Stabledge, TruFlor pointSIX and TruFlor, Rimboard, SteadiTred, QuakeZone, Tallwall, Trubord and Windstorm, SolarBord, TruDeck, StableDec, SterlingOSB, Caberwood MDF, Conti, and Caberboard brand names. The company was formerly known as Nexfor Inc. and changed its name to Norbord Inc. in June 2004. Norbord Inc. was founded in 1987 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

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Powder River Basin Drill Prospect

Perth, Aug 7, 2018 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Eon NRG Limited ( ASX:E2E ) ( OTCMKTS:ICRMF ) ("the Company" or "Eon") is pleased to announce that it has acquired its first lease in the Powder River Basin, Wyoming as part of the Company's exploration and development strategy. The lease, covers an area of 640 acres in Converse County, Wyoming (see Figure 1 in link below). The exploration rights are leased from the State of Wyoming at a standard lease rate for a primary term of five years and can be held by production on completion of a successful wells. This is expected to be the first of several lease acreage acquisitions as part of the future development strategy. The Eon Group is a licensed and bonded operator in Wyoming and currently operate two fields in Wyoming, Silvertip and Borie.The Powder River Basin (PRB) has become one of the most active oil and gas basins in North America and has a long history of oil and gas production from more than 4,000' of stacked pay. The PRB has seen a significant increase in exploration and production in recent years from horizontal laterals in the unconventional rocks of the Niobrara and Mowry Shale. Operators are also testing horizontal laterals in the conventional sandstones of the Parkman, Sussex, Shannon and Turner with excellent results. The PRB has attracted multiple large E&P companies including Anadarko Resources, Chesapeake Energy, EOG Resources, Anschutz and Devon Energy. New technology in drilling and completions has the economics to a point where the break even is in $30-$50/Bbl oil in several of the formations.Eon has identified potential drilling opportunities in the Minnelusa Formation. Prospects are supported by strong economics from wells drilled in the PRB since the 1960's and has good geological support for the presence of hydrocarbons. Factors that make these prospects attractive include:- Production from the Minnelusa Formation is from conventional vertical wells to a depth of less than 8000'. Improvements in drilling technology, which has come from efficiency improvements in the resource plays, has reduced drilling costs significantly. Drill and complete costs are less than US$1.5 million per well;- From over 1,300 individual Minnelusa wells drilled, the average cumulative oil production is over 320,000 bbls of oil per well and the average initial production (IP) range is from 185-300 BOPD;- 100% oil production (no gas) with water drive which results in a low decline rate and long well/field life;Eon Energy has commenced its land acquisition program for new drilling prospects in the PRB, and this will continue for the foreseeable future, with an aggressive drilling campaign in proposed for 2019. In addition to the Minnelusa, Eon is also targeting the conventional sandstones of the Parkman, Sussex, Shannon and Turner. The company is looking to acquire sufficient acreage to allow exploration to be carried out across multiple prospects and multiple formations.The Company will provide further updates as new leases are finalized.To view figures, please visit:About EON NRG Ltd

EON NRG Ltd (ASX:E2E) is an USA onshore focused energy exploration and production company. The Company's growth path is through drilling of high impact oil exploration wells, supported by its 100% owned and operated long life oil and gas production assets and associated cashflow. The company also has a battery minerals division with prospective leases in Nevada which are at the early stages of low-cost exploration.
The following companies are subsidiares of Molina Healthcare: Aetna & Humana - Medicare Advantage, Affinity Health Plan, AmericanWork Inc., Better Health Network, Camelot Care Centers Inc, Children's Behavioral Health Inc., Choices Group Inc., College Community Services, Dockside Services Inc, Family Preservation Services Inc., Family Preservation Services of Florida Inc., Family Preservation Services of North Carolina Inc., Family Preservation Services of Washington D.C. Inc., Family Preservation Services of West Virginia Inc., Florida NetPASS LLC, Hclb Inc., Magellan Complete Care, Maple Star Nevada Inc., Maple Star Oregon Inc., Mercy CarePlus, Molina Clinical Services LLC, Molina Healthcare Data Center Inc., Molina Healthcare of Arizona Inc., Molina Healthcare of California, Molina Healthcare of Florida Inc., Molina Healthcare of Georgia Inc., Molina Healthcare of Illinois Inc., Molina Healthcare of Iowa Inc., Molina Healthcare of Louisiana Inc., Molina Healthcare of Maryland Inc., Molina Healthcare of Michigan Inc., Molina Healthcare of Mississippi Inc., Molina Healthcare of Nevada Inc., Molina Healthcare of New Mexico Inc., Molina Healthcare of New York Inc., Molina Healthcare of North Carolina Inc., Molina Healthcare of Ohio Inc., Molina Healthcare of Oklahoma Inc., Molina Healthcare of Pennsylvania Inc., Molina Healthcare of Puerto Rico Inc., Molina Healthcare of South Carolina LLC, Molina Healthcare of Texas Inc., Molina Healthcare of Texas Insurance Company, Molina Healthcare of Utah Inc., Molina Healthcare of Virginia Inc., Molina Healthcare of Washington Inc., Molina Healthcare of Wisconsin Inc., Molina Holdings Corporation, Molina Hospital Management LLC, Molina Information Systems LLC dba Molina Medicaid Solutions, Molina Medical Management Inc., Molina Pathways LLC, Molina Pathways of Texas Inc., Molina Youth Academy, NextLevel Health Illinois, Pathways Community Corrections Inc., Pathways Community Services LLC, Pathways Community Support of Texas Inc., Pathways Health and Community Support LLC, Pathways Human Services LLC., Pathways of Arizona Inc., Pathways of Delaware Inc., Pathways of Idaho LLC, Pathways of Maine Inc., Pathways of Massachusetts LLC, Pathways of Oklahoma Inc., Pathways of Washington Inc., Providence Community Services, Providence Human Services, Raystown Developmental Services Inc., The Game of Work LLC, The RedCo Group Inc., Total Care Medicaid plan, Transitional Family Services Inc., Unisys -Health Information Management, and YourCare Health Plan.
The following companies are subsidiares of Cardinal Health: A+ Secure Packaging LLC, Access Closure, Access Closure Inc., Aero-Med Ltd., Alaris Medical Systems, Allegiance Corporation, Allegiance Healthcare, AssuraMed, AssuraMed Inc., Automatic Liquid Packaging, Bergen Brunswig Corp, Bindley Western Industries, Boron LePore & Associates, Borschow Hospital & Medical Supplies, Cardinal Health 100 Inc., Cardinal Health 104 LP, Cardinal Health 105 Inc., Cardinal Health 107 LLC, Cardinal Health 108 LLC, Cardinal Health 110 LLC, Cardinal Health 112 LLC, Cardinal Health 113 LLC, Cardinal Health 114 Inc., Cardinal Health 115 LLC, Cardinal Health 116 LLC, Cardinal Health 118 LLC, Cardinal Health 119 LLC, Cardinal Health 121 LLC, Cardinal Health 122 LLC, Cardinal Health 123 LLC, Cardinal Health 124 LLC, Cardinal Health 126 LLC, Cardinal Health 127 Inc., Cardinal Health 2 LLC, Cardinal Health 200 LLC, Cardinal Health 201 Inc., Cardinal Health 222 (Thailand) Ltd., Cardinal Health 247 Inc., Cardinal Health 249 LLC, Cardinal Health 3 LLC, Cardinal Health 414 LLC, Cardinal Health 5 LLC, Cardinal Health 6 Inc., Cardinal Health 7 LLC, Cardinal Health Australia 503 Pty. Ltd., Cardinal Health Austria 504 GmbH, Cardinal Health Belgium 505 BVBA, Cardinal Health Canada Holdings Cooperative U.A., Cardinal Health Canada Inc., Cardinal Health Chile Limitada, Cardinal Health Colombia S.A.S., Cardinal Health D.R. 203 II Ltd., Cardinal Health Denmark ApS, Cardinal Health Finland Oy, Cardinal Health Foundation, Cardinal Health France 506 SAS, Cardinal Health Funding LLC, Cardinal Health Germany 507 GmbH, Cardinal Health Germany Manufacturing GmbH, Cardinal Health IPS LLC, Cardinal Health International Philippines Inc., Cardinal Health Ireland 419 Designated Activity Company, Cardinal Health Ireland 508 Limited, Cardinal Health Ireland Unlimited Company, Cardinal Health Italy 509 Srl, Cardinal Health Japan G.K., Cardinal Health Korea Limited, Cardinal Health Malaysia 211 Sdn. Bhd., Cardinal Health Malta 212 Limited, Cardinal Health Managed Care Services LLC, Cardinal Health Medical Equipment Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., Cardinal Health Medical Products India Private Limited, Cardinal Health Mexico 244 S. de R.L. de C.V., Cardinal Health Mexico 514 S. de R.L. de C.V., Cardinal Health Middle East FZ-LLC, Cardinal Health Netherlands 502 B.V., Cardinal Health Norway AS, Cardinal Health P.R. 120 Inc., Cardinal Health P.R. 218 Inc., Cardinal Health P.R. 220 LLC, Cardinal Health Pharmaceutical Contracting LLC, Cardinal Health Pharmacy Services LLC, Cardinal Health Poland Spolka z ograniczonaa odpowiedzialnossciaa, Cardinal Health Portugal 513 Unipessoal Lda., Cardinal Health Singapore 225 Pte. Ltd., Cardinal Health Spain 511 S.L., Cardinal Health Specialty Pharmacy LLC, Cardinal Health Sweden 512 A.B., Cardinal Health Switzerland 515 GmbH, Cardinal Health Systems Inc., Cardinal Health Technologies LLC, Cardinal Health Technologies Switzerland GmbH, Cardinal Health U.K. 432 Limited, Cardinal Health do Brasil Ltd., CareFusion, Cirpro de Delicias S.A. de C.V., Convertors de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Cordis, Cordis (Shanghai) Medical Devices Co. Ltd., Cordis Cashel Company Unlimited, Cordis Corporation, Cornerstone Partners G.P.O. L.P., Covidien Manufacturing Solutions S.A., Curaspan Health Group Inc., Denver Biomedical, Dik Drug, EPIC Insurance Company, Emerge Medical, Enturia, Especialidades Medicas Kenmex S.A. de C.V., Futuremed Health Care Products, Gala Biotech, Geodax Technology, Griffin Capital LLC, HLS Freight Services, Healthcare Solutions Holding, Innovative Therapies Inc., Instant Diagnostic Systems Inc., KPR Australia Pty. Ltd., KPR Italia S.r.l., KPR Switzerland Sales Gmbh, KPR U.S. LLC, Kendall Patient Recovery BVBA, Kendall-Gammatron Limited, Kinray, Leader Drugstores Inc., Limited Liability Company "Cardinal Health Russia", Ludlow Technical Products Canada Ltd., MCD, Magellan Laboratories, Marin Apothecaries, MedMined, Medicine Shoppe International Inc., Mediquip Sdn. Bhd., Medtronic - Patient Monitoring & Recovery, Mirixa Corporation, NaviHealth, Nippon Covidien Ltd., One Cloverleaf LLC, Outcomes Incorporated, Owen Healthcare, PCI Pharma Services, ParMed Pharmaceuticals, Pinnacle Intellectual Property Services Inc., Pinnacle Intellectual Property Services-International Inc., Post-Acute Care Center for Research LLC, Pyxis Corporation, Quiroproductos de Cuauhtemoc S. de R.L. de C.V., R Cubed Inc., R.P. Scherer Corporation, RGH Enterprises Inc., RainTree GPO LLC, RainTree Oncology Services, Renal Purchasing Group LLC, Rxealtime Inc., Sonexus Health LLC, Syncor International, TelePharm, TelePharm LLC, The Harvard Drug Group, The Harvard Drug Group L.L.C., Tradex International Inc., Viasys Healthcare, WaveMark Inc., Zuellig Pharma China, mscripts, mscripts LLC, and mscripts Systems India Private Limited.
Synthomer plc operates as a specialty chemicals company in the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, France, Belgium, Malaysia, China, the United States, rest of Europe, rest of Asia, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Performance Elastomers, Functional Solutions, Industrial Specialities, and Acrylate Monomers. The company offers pressure sensitive adhesives, acrylic polymers, acrylic dispersions, and other adhesives; latices for foamed bedding products and footwear; acrylonitrile butadiene rubber for glove dipping and specific needs of medical, examination, clean room, food handling, medical drug handling, and chemical laboratory applications; and artificial turf and gel foam elastomers for floor coverings, footwear, and mattresses. It also provides latices for medical devices, condoms, and balloons. In addition, the company offers binders, vinyl acetate copolymer dispersions, solvent-borne resins, and other products for various coatings applications; and synthetic binders for graphic, packaging, and specialty paper coating applications. Further, it provides compounds and aqueous curing pastes for carpets and other applications; coalescing agents for enhancing the properties of coatings; and acrylic monomers for enhancing the performance characteristics of polymer formulations. Additionally, the company offers liquid polybutadienes, polyvinyl alcohol suspending agents, polyvinyl acetates, thermosetting resins, butyl ethyl propanediol, and inorganic materials for various industrial applications; and specialty polymers for construction applications. It also provides impregnation binders, polymer dispersions, styrene butadiene copolymers, acrylic and styrene acrylic dispersions, and butadiene-based binders for textiles applications. The company was formerly known as Yule Catto & Co. plc and changed its name to Synthomer plc in 2012. Synthomer plc was founded in 1863 and is headquartered in London, the United Kingdom.

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House Speaker Paul Ryan suggests in a new interview that a success of his tenure as House speaker has been to avoid unnamed "tragedies" during the Trump administration.

Speaking with The New York Times, Ryan discussed at length his relationship with the former business mogul ahead of his retirement from Congress at the end of this year. He told the Times that he privately appeals to the President and feels that he has managed to influence Trump's thinking and behavior so as to avoid "tragedy."

Companies Donald Trump Elections and campaigns Government and public administration Government bodies and offices New York Times Co Paul Ryan Political Figures - US Politics US federal government White House

"I can look myself in the mirror at the end of the day and say I avoided that tragedy, I avoided that tragedy, I avoided that tragedy. I advanced this goal, I advanced this goal, I advanced this goal," Ryan, a Wisconsin Republican, told the Times over a series of interviews that were published in a Tuesday report.

Ryan would not provide the Times with an example of a "tragedy" he thinks he thwarted.

"No, I don't want to do that," Ryan said. "That's more than I usually say."

Responding to some of the flak he's received in not speaking out against Trump in exchange for getting a tax bill passed, Ryan told the Times, "I'm very comfortable with the decisions I've made. I would make them again, do it again the same way."

The House speaker also said that criticizing Trump too forcefully is an ineffective strategy in dealing with him.

"It boomerangs. He goes in the other direction, so that's not effective," Ryan said, adding, "The pissing match doesn't work."

Ryan also admitted to the Times that he was shocked by Trump's rise in politics.

"I didn't see it coming. It threw me off," he said.

Ryan announced in April that he would not seek re-election and will retire from Congress in January.

The Trump-Ryan relationship began on rocky footing, as Ryan withheld his endorsement of Trump during the 2016 election until Trump became the presumptive GOP nominee. Ryan occasionally criticized Trump for his rhetoric on the campaign trail and distanced himself from the real estate mogul after the infamous "Access Hollywood" tape surfaced.

After Trump's election victory, however, the two have worked together to pass a Republican legislative agenda, though there is still occasional friction, most recently over Trump's tariffs and his embrace of Russian President Vladimir Putin at a summit in Helsinki last month.
Maxar Technologies Inc. provides earth intelligence and space infrastructure solutions in the United States, Asia, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, Canada, and internationally. It operates through Earth Intelligence and Space Infrastructure segments. The Earth Intelligence segment offers earth imagery products, including orthorectified imagery, imagery basemap, 3D and elevation, and information products; and SecureWatch, a subscription offering that provides online access to imagery and geospatial intelligence platform. This segment also offers geospatial information, application, and analytic services. It serves U.S. and other international government agencies, such as defense and intelligence agencies, as well as commercial customers in various markets. The Space Infrastructure segment provides space based infrastructure, robotics, sub-systems, and information solutions, including communication and imaging satellites and payloads; platforms for space exploration and hosting instruments for earth science; space subsystems for power, propulsion, and communication; satellite ground systems and support services; space-based remote sensory solutions; space robotics; and defense systems. This segment serves government agencies and satellite operators. Maxar Technologies Inc. was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Westminster, Colorado.

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CHICO, Calif. -- A Chico city council candidate is looking to make a change with Chico's current stance on marijuana. Currently, people cannot buy or sell cannabis within city limits.

Candidate Scott Huber felt so strongly about the issue, he traveled to Boulder, Colorado last week to better educate himself. But pretty soon, he's going to find he will run into a brick wall at the Chico City Hall.

"My goal was to get a better understanding of what the obstacles were to going pro-legalization in the community," said Scott Huber, candidate for Chico City Council.

One obstacle Huber will find right here at home is the mayor.

"How will I work with Scott on different marijuana legalization or initiatives in the City of Chico? I will sit there and I will show him this report and I will go no, no, no, no every time. But I'll listen with an open mind because that's what we do, but the answer is not only no, but it's hell no," said Sean Morgan, Mayor of Chico.

Huber himself was against cannabis legalization until 2016.

"I spoke to a number of people whose opinions I respect who pointed out to me the reasons that legalizing cannabis was actually better for us than forbidding it," said Huber.

Colorado legalized cannabis in 2014. The city has adopted cannabis regulations, but not without its challenges.

"I think the biggest challenge is coming up with the rules so thinking in advance of what the problems are going to be before you allow people to start applying for dispensaries or grow operations," said Huber.

"But I know what the people at Harvard and John Hopkins and Boston Children's Hospital say - they say when you legalize marijuana, use goes up by the public both legal and illegal use," said Morgan.

Before taking this trip, Huber said he believed legalizing cannabis would eliminate certain problems the north state faces - cartel violence, illegal grows in the foothills and illegal sales without tax revenue.

"Boulder has something called a marijuana advisory plan. It's made up of citizens, representatives of the police department enforcement, the city, the chamber, various other groups in the community and growers and dispensary owners," said Huber.

"It's not working in Colorado, it's not working in Washington, they're not better communities as a result of it. If it starts to work somewhere in California, then I'll consider it, but right now? No," said Morgan.

Marijuana is legal in California, but Chico laws do not allow buying or selling within city limits.

"The majority of Chicoans, the vast majority of the citizenry, they don't want it, they know it's bad," said Morgan.

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Its going to take me a minute to get us where we need to be so today I ask you bear with me. For much of my life I have passed our National Cemetery and wondered about the great majority of the 43,000 who sleep there. They each have only one thing in common but to me it is so revered I find it a close second to the day a Christian will stand before the Master. Each and every veteran wants unto this very day for those of us who cherish them in these United States to live full and free lives. It is a gift beyond measure.

Every Christmas, to see the wreaths standing at attention in the cold and snowy air, is a testament to our relentless thanks and never-to-die gratitude each deserves. But  no  of the 43,000 who forged America into the greatest country the Earth has ever known, there has been a facade of sorts. Most of us who drive past at Christmas believe every marker has a wreath but thats not so. Only the most noticeable 10,000 have gotten a wreath since the custom began in 2006, yet who is to say who does and who doesnt?

Enter one of our greatest patriots, Mickey McCamish. Last December I participated in the wreath laying ceremony at Chattanooga National Cemetery. It was a great endeavor but what bothered me was that only approximately 10,000 wreaths were placed on gravestones and there were a total of 43,000. That really bothered me to think of all the veterans whose graves didnt receive a wreath.

Mickey, with Civil Air Patrol Major Larry Steward and a slew of other genuine gratefuls, will hold a press conference at the National Cemetery this Friday at 9:30 a.m. to champion Wreaths over Chattanoooga.

This December 15 every monument will bear a wreath and, while 33,000 additional signs of our love will be a heavy lift, Ill guarantee this is going to happen. Again, Ill guarantee the heart of this community will see to it that all veterans, both at rest and still in our midst, will know fully a heckuva bigger heart than a wreath will festoon them on Christmas Day.

I have studied and written and listened to stories emenating from the National Cemetery for years. For just as long, I have wondered about our native sons who were never able to hold their child, tell their mom how much they loved them one last time, or who actually gave their life without morphine, a priest, or anyone nearby who cared as much as they did.

My Jesus loves to play tricks on me. I laugh over the fact He sets me up all the time so several weeks before I found out about Mickeys Wreaths over Chattanooga, my morning readings brought me to the great actor Tony Lo Biancos reading of Just a Common Soldier. The poem, also known as A Soldier Died Today, was written by famed Canadian veteran and columnist A. Lawrence Vaincourt. It now appears in numerous anthologies, on thousands of websites and on July 4, 2008 it was carved into a marble monument at West Point, New York.

Several days later, as though to add an exclamation point, I was sent an obscure tape of a gunner being returned to the USS Essex on Nov. 5, 1944. This is official Navy film, grainy but quite real. I believe that thousands in our National Cemetery were just like Loyce Deen. Loyce, a product of Depression Oklahoma, was a gunner with the legendary Carrier Air Group 15 in the Pacific.

* * *

The AG 15s World War II heroics were beyond measure. The unit scored 312 enemy aircraft destroyed, 33 probably destroyed, and 65 damaged in aerial combat, plus 348 destroyed, 161 probably destroyed, and 129 damaged in ground attacks. Twenty-six Fighting 15 pilots became aces, including their leader, Commander David McCampbell, who became the U.S. Navys Ace of Aces. Twenty-one squadron pilots were killed in action and one in an operational accident aboard the carrier Essex.

The fighter squadrons partners, Bombing Squadron 15 and Torpedo Squadron 15, scored 174,300 tons of enemy shipping, including 37 cargo vessels sunk, 10 probably sunk, and 39 damaged. As well, Musashi, the worlds largest battleship, was sunk, along with a light aircraft carrier, a destroyer, destroyer escort, two minesweepers and other craft?plus the Zuikaku, the last surviving carrier that participated in the Pearl Harbor attack. Incredibly, every pilot of Torpedo 15 was awarded the Navy Cross, the highest award for bravery after the Medal of Honor. All of this took place between May and November, 1944.

* * *

On Nov. 5, a superb pilot from New Orleans, Robert Crosgrove, miraculously flew a totally-decimated Avenger some two hours from the skies of The Battle of Manila Bay back to the USS Essex. Behind him, dead from antiaircraft fire, was 23-year-old Loyse Deen. The bridge was notified Deens body was so horribly mutilated by the 40 mm. rounds it could not be removed from the aircraft and the plane was, in todays venacular, absolutely totaled.

Moments later a new order was given. Loyse Deen should be buried at sea in his airplane.

Soon, another order came from the bridge. Understand, this was at a time when every usable part on any disabled warplane was to be salvaged. No parts are to be taken from the damaged warplane. They belong to Loyce.

(To view videos, click here and here.)

As you watch what happened on the fantail of the USS Essex, and study the men who stood in reverence at last rites and then watch the airplane sink, I beg youll recognize our National Cemetery is filled with Americans exactly like Loyse Deen. Each deserves a Christmas wreath in perpetuity. (Note: Loyce Deen is not interred in Chattanooga, but buried in his native Oklahoma.)

* * *

Believe this: You mighty right we are going to get a wreath for each and every one.

royexum@aol.com
(CNN) -- An operation is underway to evacuate thousands of tourists after a deadly earthquake that rocked some of Indonesia's most idyllic islands late Sunday night.

At least 98 people, all Indonesian nationals, were killed when the 6.9 magnitude quake struck the popular tourist island of Lombok, Indonesian authorities said Monday. More than 200 were also injured.

The majority of those killed in the quake were hit by falling debris from collapsing buildings, said Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, the head of Indonesia's disaster management department.

In total, an estimated 20,000 people have been displaced by the massive earthquake, Nugroho said.

Dramatic video tweeted by authorities showed hundreds of people, many believed to be foreign vacationers, crammed onto a beach on the island of Gili Trawangan as evacuation measures got underway.

Emergency personnel were racing to evacuate thousands of tourists from the three small Gili Islands as night began to fall. The islands, famous for their white sandy beaches and clear waters, are located near the epicenter of the quake on Lombok.

Earlier rescue efforts were hampered by shallow waters, but rising sea waters mean nine ships are now expected to dock on the islands.

So far, up to 2,700 tourists have been moved from the Gili Islands, according to Nugroho. He added that Lombok's airport was now open around the clock and had significantly increased its flight schedule.

The epicenter of the quake was in northern Lombok, a more residential, less developed part of the island. The majority of Lombok's tourist resorts are on the island's southern coast.

British tourist Mike Bennett, stranded on the island of Gili Meno along with around 100 other people, told CNN he faced an anxious night ahead.

"It's getting dark now," he said. "There's no power, there's no water, we're going to hold out and just see what happens tomorrow."

Childrens homes in ruins

Among the buildings destroyed in Lombok were two homes housing underprivileged children, with around 80 of the youngsters forced to sleep outside.

Martina Fetter, founder of the Peduli Anak Foundation, said that of the charity's four homes, two were now completely collapsed.

"The other two that we just finished building this year also have damages, cracked walls, roof partly falling, so it's still not safe to stay inside," she said.

"We still need tents, setting up emergency kitchen, food, water, generator to pump water," she added.

'The noise was deafening'

Retiree Deborah Storck was in a restaurant, about to eat dinner in Senggigi, on Lombok's west coast, when the quake hit.

"Everything started moving; the noise was deafening. We ran out into the street and a friend and I stood in the parking area hanging on to a parked car which was also swaying severely," she said.

"The friend I was with in the car park had a very lucky escape. A large wall fan fell off and landed in the chair she was sitting in before it ended up on the floor under the table."

Further north on the island, many were thought to be inside praying when the quake struck late Sunday, said Endri Susanto, who runs a nongovernmental organization assisting with relief efforts.

A tsunami warning was issued in the immediate aftermath of the quake, prompting people to flee to higher ground, said Susanto.

Susanto said the roads in the jungle leading to northern Lombok were treacherous and badly damaged in the quake, which is likely to hamper aid efforts.

Susanto said he had reached a hospital in the north of the island, which appeared "totally broken."

"I saw about 80% of the houses, 80% of the buildings had fallen down or collapsed because of the earthquake," he said of the area surrounding the hospital.

Aftershocks felt in Bali

The earthquake was also felt in neighboring Bali, another popular tourist spot. More than 100 aftershocks continued to rattle the region after the main quake.

"I can't imagine what has happened in the villages close to (the epicenter)," Evan Burns, the general manager of the Living Asia resort, told CNN by phone from Senggigi.

"It was quite bad," said Evans. "Many of our guests were panicking and it was our job to keep them calm."

Across the island, residents and tourists were advised to stay outside, with many choosing to sleep in the streets and public areas away from large buildings. Hospital patients were wheeled outside because of fear of aftershocks.

The devastation comes exactly a week after the region was hit by a 6.4 magnitude quake that left at least 15 people dead and 162 injured.
Oroville, Calif.-- Mighty Ducks star Shaun Weiss, who is known for his role as Goldberg, was arrested this weekend by Oroville Police for public drug intoxication.

Police say they found Weiss in front of a closed business just before 1 a.m on Saturday.

He was arrested, booked, and released.

Weiss has faced legal trouble including theft and most recently he was charged with possession of methamphetamine in Southern California, just one year ago.
This page may be updated if the event is repeated

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The NCLAT has said that it will hear tomorrow Cyrus Mistry's appeal on the NCLT order in his case against Tata Sons as the counsel for the conglomerate was not present on Tuesday to put forth his arguments before the bench.

New Delhi: The NCLAT has said that it will hear tomorrow Cyrus Mistry's appeal on the NCLT order in his case against Tata Sons as the counsel for the conglomerate was not present on Tuesday to put forth his arguments before the bench.

Mistry had approached the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) last week against the NCLT dismissing his plea challenging his removal as chairman of Tata Sons. The two-member NCLAT has listed the matter for tomorrow.

On July 9, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) Mumbai had dismissed Mistry's pleas challenging his removal as Tata Sons chairman as also the allegations of rampant misconduct on part of Ratan Tata and the company's Board. A special bench of the tribunal held that the Board of Directors at Tata Sons was "competent" to remove the executive chairperson of the company.

NCLT bench members B S V Prakash Kumar and V Nallasenapathy said that Mistry was ousted as chairman because the Tata Sons' Board and its majority shareholders had "lost confidence in him". Under the Companies Act 2013, an order of NCLT can be challenged before the NCLAT.

Mistry, who was the sixth chairman of Tata Sons, was ousted from the position in October 2016. He had taken over as the chairman in 2012 after Ratan Tata announced his retirement.

Two months after his removal, Mistry's family-run firms Cyrus Investments Pvt Ltd and Sterling Investments Corp approached the NCLT as minority shareholders, against Tata Sons, Ratan Tata, and some other board members.

Mistry in his pleas primarily argued that his removal was not in accordance with the Companies Act and that there was rampant mismanagement of affairs across Tata Sons.

He also alleged that Tata Trust chairperson Ratan Tata and trustee N Soonawala interfered with the day-to-day operations of the group companies, they acted as shadow directors, and all of the above caused massive revenue loss for the group. The Tata Group had denied all charges and said Mistry was removed because the Board had lost confidence in him.
Leading aircraft engine maker GE Aviation has signed a deal worth over USD 340 million with Tata-SIA airline Vistara for supply of its GEnx-1B engines for the latter's Boeing 787 fleet. (Photo: Facebook)

Mumbai: Leading aircraft engine maker GE Aviation has signed a deal worth over USD 340 million with Tata-SIA airline Vistara for supply of its GEnx-1B engines for the latter's Boeing 787 fleet.

The engines are expected to be delivered to Air Vistara between 2020 and 2021, GE Aviation said in a release issued on Tuesday.

The Delhi-based full service carrier recently placed firm order of six B 787-9 (Dreamliner) aircraft with Boeing, besides purchase rights of four more aircraft from Boeing 787 family for its proposed medium and long-haul international operations.

"GEnx engines have been selected by Vistara to power its newly ordered fleet of six firm and four purchase rights of Boeing 787 wide-bodied aircraft," the engine maker said in the release.

The firm engine order, valued at more than USD 340 million, is Vistara's first for GEnx-powered aircraft, with delivery expected between 2020 and 2021, it said.

"We are delighted to partner with GE for our Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners' operations with its fuel efficient and reliable GEnx-1B engines," Vistara's Chief Executive Officer Leslie Thng said.

Last month, Vistara had announced placing orders for a total of 19 Airbus and Boeing aircraft worth USD 3.1 billion (around Rs 21,344 crore), as the carrier embarks on ambitious expansion plans, including flying overseas.

"We are honoured that Vistara has selected GE to power its growth journey. GEnx engines offer impressive economics pertaining to fuel efficiency, reliability and utilisation making them most suited for Vistara's plans to strengthen its fleet for international routes," GE Aviation Country Head Vikram Rai said.
Ahmedabad: With the BS-VI deadline nearing, Tata Motors expects a steep fall in the sale of diesel vehicles due to an increase in compliance costs caused by new safety and emission norms.

Due to the new norms, which make huge impact, there will a big jump in costs which is likely to hit the sales of diesel vehicles. However, gasoline (petrol vehicles) sales will pickup and the company is ready to meet the changing demand of smart Indian customers, said Mayank Pareek, president (passenger vehicle business) at Tata Motors.

Speaking to media at Sanad plant, he said: Our diesel vehicles share has gone down to 40 per cent from 62 per cent (for a month in 2012) and we expect it go down further. However, much depends on the difference between the prices of diesel and petrol. If the difference is high, diesel sales go up and vice versa.

Asked about Tata Motors plan for electric vehicles, he said: Its too early to comment on it. But EVs are here to stay as the governments policy is yet to be finalised.

He added, About 70-80 per cent of the cost for an EV is the battery. The company has the technology, we will wait for the costs to come down further.

Citing the example of a mobile phone going dry, he said, Charging infrastru-cture is critical. All have faced a time when our cell has run dry, we wouldnt like that to happen while we are driving. People are also anxious about the range of an electric vehicle as well as the costs.

Talking about the companys future plans, he said, The company thanks to its turnaround plans has shown considerable improvement and beat the industry average comfortably.

On the company outlook, he added, The company, which had 59 per cent market coverage three years back, plans to add 10-12 brands over the next four years to increase the coverage to about 90 per cent. Secondly, the company plans to increase its network to 2,000 outlets which would be a mix of digital and brick and mortar stores. We have plans to handhold our dealers to help the sale of our vehicles.

He said the Sanand plant plays a key role in the companys turnaround plans as its produces around 60 per cent of its overall passenger vehicles.
Indra Nooyi, 62, will step down on October 3 after 24 years with the company, the last 12 as CEO.

New Delhi: Indra Nooyi has ruled out joining politics and will now focus on her family after her long-innings at the world's second-largest food and beverage giant PepsiCo.

PepsiCo on Monday announced that its Board of Directors have unanimously elected Ramon Laguarta, 54, to succeed Indian-origin Nooyi as Chief Executive Officer. Ms Nooyi, 62, will step down on October 3 after 24 years with the company, the last 12 as CEO.

She will remain Chairman until early 2019 to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

Indra Nooyi's departure in two months will further diminish the already small group of female Fortune 500 CEOs, she is one of just 25, and the even more minuscule ranks of women of colour.

"It concerns me in that we can actually count how many there are, as opposed to saying there are hundreds," she told Fortune in an interview.

Ms Nooyi said in the interview that she did not yet know what she wanted to do next, but added that she would not be running for office. "I'm not good at politics," the Chennai-born said. "I'm just a good worker bee", Nooyi, who has not been afraid to get political, said.

After the 2016 US presidential elections, Indra Nooyi had said Democrat Hillary Clinton's loss to Republican Donald Trump left her daughters and PepsiCo's employees devastated and there were serious concerns among the company's workers, especially the non-white employees, about their safety in an America with Trump as its president.

Ms Nooyi said that after her departure from PepsiCo, her focus will be on her family. Being the CEO of a company is "all consuming," she said. "When you are the CEO, especially of such a large company, there's only one priority, and that priority is being CEO. I think my family was short-changed a lot. The last 24 years, the PepsiCo family always came first."

She added, "Now is the the time to shift my priorities to my family." Ms Nooyi got married in 1980 to Raj Nooyi, President of AmSoft Systems. They have two daughters.

According to the Fortune report, before the announcement of Nooyi's exit, PepsiCo's stock was flat year over year and its beverage sales in North America had dropped for four consecutive quarters as consumers look for alternatives to soda. Ms Nooyi said that the timing of her departure was unrelated. "I look at our performance over a long period of time," she said.

"The company is in great shape." Ms Nooyi added that talks about her transition started approximately one year ago as Laguarta was named PepsiCo's president last July.

"I've been in the company 24 years, and it's been a labour of love," she said in the interview. "At some point, you've got to sit back and say, what do I want to do with my life."

An area that interests Ms Nooyi is getting more women into the top echelons of management. "In many ways, I think after stepping down as CEO I can work with other women to figure out how to get them to c-suite positions and as a mentor and supporter," she said. There is need to focus on removing barriers to women's progress, she said.

"I see the struggles women go through, and you ca not expect every woman to be a superwoman," she said. "It just doesn't work because there's one constraint we all have, and that's that there are only 24 hours in a day."

Ms Nooyi, one of the world's most powerful and influential business leaders, said leading PepsiCo has been the "honour" of her lifetime, and she is "incredibly proud" of all the company has done over the past 12 years to advance the interests of shareholders and stakeholders.

Among the few executives to break the glass ceiling in corporate America, Ms Nooyi had also created history by being among the few India-born females to lead a global giant when she took over the reins at PepsiCo.

Ms Nooyi described the development as a "day of mixed emotions for me". She said PepsiCo has been "my life for nearly a quarter century and part of my heart will always remain here."

"But I am proud of all we've done to position PepsiCo for success, confident that Ramon and his senior leadership team will continue prudently balancing short-term and long-term priorities, and excited for all the great things that are in store for this company. PepsiCo's best days are still ahead of it," she said yesterday in the company statement.
Though rumours have been doing the rounds that Priyanka Chopras abrupt decision to drop out of Bharat has left Salman Khan miffed, the actor has refrained from publically sharing his views on the matter, until now.

Addressing a press in Delhi for the promotion of his brother-in-law Aayush Sharmas debut film, Loveratri, Salman said, I am very happy for her. If we had known earlier that she had signed a big Hollywood film, we wouldnt have stopped her from leaving. We got to know at the eleventh hour, 10 days before the shooting began, that she wanted to leave. We said, Of course, if you dont want to do it, dont do it. But honestly, we were given another reason then.

Priyanka Chopra

It has recently been announced that Priyanka will star alongside Chris Pratt in the upcoming Hollywood film, Cowboy Ninja Viking. But Salmans comment indicates that perhaps the Bharat team was told a wedding was in the offing. Rumour has it that PC will tie the knot with boyfriend Nick Jonas later this year.

Whatever it is  her wedding, a Hollywood film, or the fact that she does not want to work with me, its her prerogative. We are really happy and supportive of her doing good work. If she doesnt want to work with me here, she can work with a top Hollywood actor and make our country proud, Khan rattled off in one breath.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali has rubbished reports that PC has also walked out of a film that she was supposed to do with him.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali has a lot of love and regard for Priyanka Chopra, however, no project has been discussed, the spokesperson says. And filmmaker Ujwal Chatterjee, whos making a film about Rabindranath Tagores love life, claims that PC has re-joined his film as an actress and producer after having previously quit it.

Only time will tell what this juggling act is all about.

 Sanskriti Media

HT13
STARO ZHELEZARE, Bulgaria: With fewer than 500 inhabitants, Staro Zhelezare in southern Bulgaria is a world away from the mean streets of Manhattan, but its houses and barns have now been painted with some of the most famous images from New Yorks Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).

Andy Warhol's banana, Salvador Dalis clocks and Edvard Munchs "The Scream" are among the murals that have turned the village into a spectacular open-air gallery in what is becoming an annual event.

It is the fourth year that students from Poland have painted the walls of Staro Zhelezare, a project launched by Polish woman Katarzyna Piriankov and her Bulgarian-born husband Ventzislav who decided the theme this time should be the New York gallery.

"We always want to make our projects on the basis of contrast and absurdity, connecting them with special places," said Piriankov, from the Polish city of Poznan.

"So, we decided to invite New York to Staro Zhelezare and its people. They also deserve to see the beauty of MoMAs art works."

As well as the locals, foreign visitors have come to see the street art. "It is just amazing," said Englishman Nigel Thompson. "I've never imagined something like that, you can even see Marcel Duchamps bicycle wheel."
Women treated by a male doctor were more likely to survive if there were many female physicians in the ER.

Women who are admitted to the emergency room with a heart attack are less likely to die if they are treated by a female physician rather than a male, a new study finds.

Researchers scrutinizing data from nearly 582,000 heart attack patients found that women treated by male doctors were 1.52 per cent less likely to survive than men treated by female doctors, according to a report in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

That means if 1,000 women went to the emergency room with a heart attack, 15 more would die if they were treated by a male doctor, study leaded Brad Greenwood of the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities said.

Intriguingly, women treated by a male doctor were more likely to survive if there were many female physicians in the ER.

The key takeaway is that male physicians appear to have trouble treating female patients, Greenwood said. The challenge of (future) research is to figure out how and why this occurs. Its a tricky question and theres a lot of speculation that comes into it.

Male doctors do seem to learn from their mistakes. We do see improvement as they spend time in practice, Greenwood said. But these later benefits come at the expense of earlier patients.

Greenwood allows that the researchers calculation may be an underestimate since it only includes patients who were eventually admitted to the hospital. Women who were misdiagnosed and sent home wouldnt have been counted in the analysis.

Why would women treated by male physicians be dying at a higher rate than those treated by female doctors even though they were admitted to the hospital?

Greenwood suspects the excess deaths are due to delays in treatment because the male doctors took longer to diagnose the heart attack.

Greenwood and his colleagues reviewed anonymous medical data on 338,642 men and 243,203 women who were seen in emergency rooms in Florida hospitals between 1991 to 2010. Most - 520,078 - were treated by male doctors, while 61,719 were treated by female physicians.

The Florida database included information such as patients age, race, gender and medical history, along with hospital quality. Even after accounting for these factors, women were still less likely to survive when treated by a male ER doctor.

While noting that this kind of data is fraught with potential errors and many unmeasured variables, theres a growing drumbeat of data suggesting that women physicians have better outcomes, said Dr. Karol Watson, director of the Womens Cardiovascular Center at the University of California, Los Angeles.

There are some possible explanations for the new findings, said Watson.

Everybody knows, but nobody has proven, that women are better listeners, Watson told Reuters Health. And women physicians spend more time with their patients. I cant tell you how many times the critical piece of information comes as the patient is walking toward the door.

The new study highlights the importance of having a strong female physician workforce, said Dr. Jennifer Haythe, co-director of Columbia Womens Heart Center at the Columbia University Medical Center.

As a doctor who is very aware of gender bias particularly as it relates to cardiac disease, one cant help but wonder if improved outcomes stem from the fact that female physicians take womens symptoms more seriously, thereby expediting the workup and cardiac care of these women and improving mortality, Haythe said.

Acknowledging that we cant choose the physician who treats us in the ER, Haythe has some advice for women: They should certainly feel comfortable asking for their symptoms to be taken seriously. If they are concerned that they may be having a heart attack they should ask the treating physician - man or woman - if they have had an appropriate evaluation to determine this, and if not, why not.
From Itsukushima in Japan to one of the most northerly cities in Norway there are places around the world where death has been outlawed. (Photo: Pixabay)

At least all of us, at some point or the other, have dreamt of leaving everything behind and going for a lifelong vacation, travelling the world and going to every place imaginable. However, when you come to think of it, death is one time, when we want to be in some place familiar, homely, surrounded by our near and dear ones.

However, that is not possible in certain places, where officials have outlawed seath.

According to a story published in MailOnline, there are a few places around the world, where death, simply put, is unwelcome.

Take for example Longyearbyen, one of the world's most northerly cities on the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard. Here, bodies don't decompose in the permafrost so death is prohibited and those on the verge of passing away are flown to the mainland.

Not only that, the MailOnline report also refers to the town of Lanjaron in southern Spain, were in 1999, Mayor Jose Rubio made death illegal because he felt the towns cemetery had become too overcrowded for souls to find peace in the afterlife.

Here are other spots across the world, where Death, is simply, not welcome.

Itsukushima, Japan: Also known as Miyajima, it is considered to be a sacred place and it is home to many ancient shrines and temples. To maintain its purity, death was apparently banned until the late 19th century, along with childbirth, and residents were shipped to nearby islands to be treated. There are still no cemeteries or hospitals on the island.

Longyearbyen, Norway: One of the world's most northerly cities, located on the archipelago of Svalbard, permafrost and frigid temperatures prevent the dead from decomposing. To prevent disease from spreading, authorities decided to ban people from dying with the ruling enforced in 1950. Those who are nearing death are flown to the mainland of Norway to live out their final days.

Lanjaron, Spain: The mayor of the town, Jose Rubio, in 1999, banned death. According to reports from the time, he felt the town's cemetery was too overcrowded for souls to get decent eternal rest. The area's 4,000 residents were advised to remain alive while municipal officials shopped for land to house a new graveyard.

It is still unclear if the new burial ground was ever found.

Sarpourenx, France: In 2008, the mayor of the French village of Sarpourenx issued a decree banning residents from dying in his territory unless they owned a spot in the overcrowded cemetery.

Speaking to the AFP, he said he decided to take the radical measure in protest against a legal ruling preventing him from enlarging the burial ground in the village of 260 people.

Sellia, Italy: In 2015, the medieval village of Sellia in Italy banned people from getting sick in a bid to save its dwindling and ageing population.

The towns mayor Davide Zicchinella, signed a decree stating that residents were forbidden from getting sick and they should put their health first. In 1960, the town had 1,300 citizens, but by 2015 there were just 537 remaining with 60 per cent aged over 65.

Biritiba Mirim, Brazil: In 2005 officials in the Brazilian town of Biritiba Mirim, proposed outlawing death because the local cemetery had reached full capacity at 50,000 grave sites and crypts were starting to be shared.

Cugnaux, France: In 2007, Cugnaux in south-western France banned death after it could not get permission to open a new cemetery. The town, which is home to around 17,000 residents, was subsequently granted permission to enlarge its local cemetery.
Indian Army Major and three soldiers were killed in a gun battle with terrorists who were trying infiltrate in the state from north Kashmir's Gurez. (Representational Image)

Jammu: Indian Army Major and three soldiers were killed in a gun battle with terrorists who were trying infiltrate in the state from north Kashmir's Gurez, officials told news agency Press Trust of India.

Two terrorists were also shot dead in the ensuing gun fight.

The encounter between the Army's patrolling party and the infiltrating group took place at Govind Nallah in Gurez sector of Bandipore district.

The bodies of two militants could be seen from a distance while two more are believed to have been killed, they said.

Further reinforcements were rushed to the encounter site.

The deceased have been identified as Major K P Rane, hawaldars Jamie Singh and Vikramjeet and rifleman Mandeep.

Initial reports said a group of eight was trying to infiltrate into the country. Of them, four ran back to Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK), officials said.

Further details are awaited.
However, Velmurugan since released on bail, was said to be in a frustrated mood and on Sunday evening, when nobody was at home, he was reported to have hung himself to death.

Thoothukudi: A college student, on bail in connection with three mobile theft cases against him, committing suicide here triggered tension as the students Federation of India (SFI) launched a protest, demanding Rs 20 lakh compensation and government job for a member of the victims family.

A second year B. Com student, Velmurugan (20) son of Murugan along with his friend, Saji (22) son of Raja, studying second year Economics at another college in Thoothukudi, was accused of indulging in mobile snatchings.

Three women including a nurse working at Thoothukudi government Medical college hospital lost their mobiles to the two youths, whose modus operandi was to snatch the mobiles from its users while riding on motorbike.

Thoothukudi South police registered three cases against these two youths and arrested them on July 11. The court, however, on August 3 released Velmurugan and Saji on bail with a condition to sign daily at the police station.

However, Velmurugan since released on bail, was said to be in a frustrated mood and on Sunday evening, when nobody was at home, he was reported to have hung himself to death.

As Velmurugan was a member of SFI, the students body on Monday morning launched a strike in front of the private college (V O C College) and allowed nobody inside. The students too charged the police with falsely implicating Velmurugan in the three cases. As tension mounted, the college administration, on the advice of the police, declared holiday on Monday.

The agitated students, however, demanded a compensation of Rs 20 lakh to the family of Velmurugan and a government job to one of the family members of the deceased.
A highly imaginative Karunanidhi did not leave any opportunity to show his historical knowledge and interest in organising functions. (Photo: File/PTI)

Thanjavur: A man of letters, M Karunanidhi, former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, was well versed in Tamil literature. From 'Sangam' literature to contemporary novels, he was a voracious reader and writer.

His love for 'Silapathikaram' -- written by Ilango Adigal -- is legendary and he demonstrated this in writing dialogues and screenplay for the film "Poompuhar" in 1964 and by celebrating 'Indira Vizha' at Poompuhar in the 1970s.

Poompuhar, a sleeping coastal town until then, came to life with 'Silapathikara Kalaikoodam', 'Paavai Mandram' and other monuments constructed near the sea. 'Indira Vizha' was a grand celebration then with Karunanidhi participating in it.

Read: DMK chief M Karunanidhi dies at 94

'Pattimandrams', 'Kaviyarangams', seminars explored the richness of Tamil literature and enlightened audience on Tamil history. An illuminated 'Poompuhar', with lulling waves of the sea, was a feast to eyes of people who thronged the town for 'Indira Vizha' for three days in the early 1970s'.

A highly imaginative Karunanidhi did not leave any opportunity to show his historical knowledge and interest in organising functions. The millennium celebrations of the Big temple, built by King Raja Raja Cholan, at Thanjavur was one such occasion. Government joined with organisers of dance by 1,000 dancers at the temple to mark the millennium celebrations. He came and watched the programme by sitting at a corner. He did not enter the temple through the main entrance but entered through a gateway on the Southeastern corner of the temple, as it was not considered 'auspicious' for 'living rulers'. Later, he took part in a state function nearby and released a stamp and coin to mark the occasion.

Also Read: Karunanidhi, DMKs captain of 50 years returns to pavilion

Though a lover of Tamil, Karunanidhi did not get an opportunity to organise World Tamil conference as chief minister. To make up for this, he organised the first Classical World Tamil conference at Coimbatore in 2010 during his 2006-2011 tenure as chief minister.
The DMK head served as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu for five separate terms in the 19692011 period. (Photo: Youtube screengrab)

Chennai: Towering Tamil Nadu politician Muthuvel Karunanidhi breathed his last on Tuesday, August 7, in Chennai after battling ill health for weeks. He was 94.

Doctors at the Kauvery Hospital kept the leader on maximum medical support but his health continued to decline. It was becoming a challenge to keep his vital organs functioning, doctors had said on Monday.

"With deep anguish we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 pm. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond. We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family members and fellow Tamilians worldwide," a press release by Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Executive Director of Kauvery Hospital, said.

See Pictures: RIP Muthuvel Karunanidhi (1924-2018)

Fans and supporters of the five-time chief minister kept a strict vigil outside the hospital, praying for his recovery. Chants of Ezhundhu Vaa Thalaivaa (Awake, our leader) and Vaa, Vaa, Gopalapuram Polaam Vaa (Come, Come, let's go to Gopalapuram) could be heard outside the hospital.

The DMK patriarch was admitted to Kauvery hospital following a drop in blood pressure on July 28. Since then, the medical status of the 94-year-old has gone through ups and downs.

After a health scare, the doctors extended his period of hospitalisation due to age-related overall decline in his general health, altered liver functions and haematological parameters.

Here are the LIVE updates:

9:40 pm: National flag to fly at half mast tomorrow in Delhi and all state capitals as well as throughout the state of Tamil Nadu. It has also been decided to accord state funeral tomorrow in Chennai and national mourning has been declared for tomorrow: Government.

9:20 pm: Madras High Court acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G. Ramesh agrees to hear by 10:30 pm today a case against denial of burial land by Tamil Nadu Govt at Marina beach for M Karunanidhi.

9:15 pm: Karnataka Government has declared one day state mourning on Wednesday.

9:05 pm: Ambulance carrying Karunanidhi's mortal remains leaves from Kauvery Hospital for his Gopalapuram residence.

(Photo: ANI/Twitter)

8:50 pm: DMK workers protest outside Kauvery hospital after Tamil Nadu Govt denied land for Karunanidhi's Anna memorial at Marina beach.

(Photo: ANI/Twitter)

8:30 pm: Tamil Nadu government denies permission to bury DMK president M Karunanidhi near the Anna Memorial at Marina beach, reported news agency ANI.

8:14 pm: Tamil Nadu Government declares public holiday on Wednesday and seven-day mourning.

8:07 pm: "He had shown the path to regional parties, its a tragic moment for his workers and those who loved him. He was a mature leader and a statesman. Pray to almighty that his soul rests in peace," says HD Deve Gowda.

8:05 pm: Congress President Rahul Gandhi along with senior party leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Mukul Wasnik to travel to Chennai tomorrow.

8:00 pm: M K Stalin in a statement has appealed to DMK workers to maintain peace and discipline, thanks doctors and the management of Kauvery Hospital.

7:45 pm: PM Narendra Modi to travel to Chennai on Wednesday morning, to pay his last respects to the DMK chief.

7:35 pm: DMK workers gather outside Kauvery hospital, raise slogans in memory of Karunanidhi.

(Photo: ANI/Twitter)

7:30 pm: In a statement, Telangana CM KC Rao expressed his condolences to the bereaved members of the family: In his death, India has lost a political stalwart and it will be difficult to fill the void caused by his sad demise.

7:15 pm: President Ram Nath Kovind said, "Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers."

7:00 pm: Actor Rajnikanth while mourning the death of DMK patriarch said, "Today is a black day in my life, one which I can never forget as I lost my Kalaignar. I pray for his soul."

06:45 pm: PM Narendra Modi condoled the death of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi. He tweeted: "Deeply saddened by passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised."

Key political milestones of M Karunanidhi:

June 3, 1924: Born in Thirukkuvalai near Tiruvarur, composite Thanjavur district.

August 10, 1942: As self-styled leader of Tamil Nadu Tamil Maanavar Mandram, launches Murasoli in Tamil as handwritten manuscript.

September 17, 1949: Among the Founding members of the DMK at the rally at Robinson Park in old North Madras, where DMK was launched.

July 1953: Arrested for the Kallakudi Agitation, demanding renaming of Dalmiyapuram railway station as part of the anti-Hindi agitation, along with poet Kannadasan and others; Karunanidhi was convicted for six months for that stir.

February 1954: Returns to Chennai to a heros welcome at Egmore station.

April 1957: Elected for first time to the Madras (later Tamil Nadu) Legislative Assembly from Kulittalai constituency near Tiruchy; Noted for his anti-Zamindari campaign there in the run-up to the Assembly polls that year.

1959: DMK founder C N Annadurai honours Karunanidhi for steering DMK to victory in Madras Corporation elections.

1961: Karunanidhi made DMK Treasurer.

1962: Deputy leader of the Opposition in the Assembly on election from Thanjavur constituency.

March 1967: PWD Minister in Annadurai-led first DMK Ministry, after elected from Saidapet Assembly constituency in Chennai that year.

February 10, 1969: Sworn in as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu after untimely demise of his leader and mentor Annadurai

July 27, 1969: Elected as President of DMK, a post he held till the end.

March 15, 1971: Takes charge as Chief Minister in his second term

1983: Quits Assembly membership over Sri Lankan Tamils issue

January 27, 1989: Comes back as CM for third time after MGRs demise.

June 1991: Quits Harbour Assembly seat, owning moral responsibility for DMKs defeat in the General elections that year.

May 13, 1996: Assumes office as CM for fourth time after leading DMK to a massive win in alliance with G.K. Moopanar-led Tamil Maanila Congress.

December 31, 1999- January 1, 2000: Presides over unveiling of the massive 133-feet tall statue of saint-poet Thiruvalluvar at Kanyakumari.

May 13, 2006: Sworn in chief minister for fifth time, elected from Chepauk constituency in Chennai.

February 12, 2009: Undergoes major spinal surgery that confined him permanently to a wheel-chair; missed the Republic Day Parade for the first time that year in his long over eight-decades-long public life.

April 28, 2009: Goes on a sudden, indefinite fast at Anna Square on the Marina in Chennai to press the Sri Lankan government to announce a ceasefire in its war against the Tamil militants in the Islands North.

June 23-27, 2010: Organises first World Classical Tamil Conference, at Coimbatore, pinnacle of his love for Tamil language and literature.

August 10, 2017: Steered by his son M K Stalin, Karunanidhi visits Murasoli office in Chennai on occasion of its Pavazha Vizha, a rare visit outside his Gopalapuram house where he stayed put since his second bout of illness in October 2016.
A Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) supporter reacts to a bulletin that was released about party president M Karunanidhi's health, in Chennai on Monday. (Photo: PTI)

Chennai: DMK president M Karunanidhi's health condition has significantly declined, a medical bulletin released by the Kauvery Hospital around 4:30 pm stated.

The doctors clearly mentioned that despite maximum medical support, Karunanidhi's vital organs continue to deteriorate.

The statement further said that Karunanidhis condition is extremely critical and unstable.

Press release from Kauvery Hospital. pic.twitter.com/ZK27g42GAd  KalaignarKarunanidhi (@kalaignar89) August 7, 2018

Hundreds of DMK party workers thronged the Chennai's Kauvery hospital again on Monday.

Also Read: Unable to bear shock of Karunanidhis illness, 21 DMK cadres die

Chants of "Ezhundhu Vaa Thalaivaa" (Awake, our leader) and "Vaa, Vaa, Gopalapuram Polaam Vaa" (Come, Come, let''s go to Gopalapuram) could be heard outside the hospital.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was scheduled to leave for Chennai, reported news agency ANI.

The Tamil Nadu Police are on alert and maximum deployment of the police force across the state has been put in place.

According to reports, Riot Control police was also deployed to contain the emotionally-charged party workers who have turned up in large numbers.

#WATCH A DMK worker broke down outside Kauvery Hospital after the hospital released a statement informing that M Karunanidhi's health had deteriorated further. #Chennai pic.twitter.com/AWnxnWcf0K  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Karunanidhi was admitted to Kauvery hospital in Chennai following a drop in blood pressure on July 28. Since then, the medical status of the 94-year-old has gone through ups and downs.

After a health scare, the doctors extended his period of hospitalisation due to age-related overall decline in his general health, altered liver functions and haematological parameters.
New Delhi: With just two days left for the election of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, the Opposition will be announcing its candidate on Tuesday evening.

According to reports, Opposition is likely to field 57-year-old member of Sharad Pawars Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Vandana Chavan for the post.

Though media reports say that Vandana Chavan has been picked up as the Opposition candidate for the post, talking to reporters Chavan said, I would be very happy if any woman is elected as Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha, but nothing has been decided yet. Opposition meetings are going on, we should wait.

According to Opposition sources, Tiruchi Siva of DMK, Vandana Chavan of NCP and nominated member K T S Tulsi are front-runners for the post.

Vandana Chavan is a former Mayor of Pune.

Hectic meetings are being held since today morning which is the last date of filing of nomination for the post.

The ruling NDA has fielded 62-year-old Harivansh Narayan Singh, first-time lawmaker from ally Nitish Kumars Janata Dal United.

To win in the 245-member house, a candidate needs 123 votes, but any abstention will bring down the majority mark.

The current strength of Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in the full house.

The BJP is the largest party in the house with 73 members. Its allies JD(U), Shiv Sena, Akali Dal have six, three and three members, respectively.

Besides the nominated and independent members affiliated to it, the BJP is banking on the support of 13, nine, six and two members of the AIADMK, BJD, TRS, YSR Congress respectively, its floor managers said. If all four parties support the NDA candidate, then the numbers add up to 126.

However, if parties like BJD or TRS abstain from voting, then things will become more precarious for the ruling alliance.

Both these parties had abstained during a vote on the recent motion of no-confidence against the government in the Lok Sabha while the AIADMK had voted with the treasury benches.

The BJP is hoping to get support of four of the six independent members and three of the four nominated members. The Congress has 50 members.

(With PTI inputs)
Ishrat Jahan's mother alleged that Vanzara played a 'direct and key role' in the conspiracy behind the 'staged encounter'. (Photo: File)

Ahmedabad: A special CBI court in Gujarat on Tuesday rejected the discharge applications of former police officers D G Vanzara and N K Amin in the case of an alleged fake encounter of Ishrat Jahan and three others.

Special judge J K Pandya rejected the applications of Vanzara and Amin.

The court last month concluded the hearing of arguments of the two accused retired police officers, the CBI and Ishrat Jahan's mother Shamima Kauser, who had challenged Vanzara's discharge plea.

Vanzara, a former deputy inspector general of police in Gujarat, had sought discharge on the ground of parity with the state's former in-charge Director General of Police P P Pandey, who was discharged in the case in February this year for want of evidence against him.

Amin, who retired as the superintendent of police, sought his discharge on the ground that the encounter was genuine and that testimonies of witnesses produced by the Central Bureau of Investigation were not reliable.

Ishrat Jahan's mother sought to oppose the pleas of Amin and Vanzara, and told the court that her daughter was "murdered following a conspiracy between high-ranking police officers and others holding powerful and influential positions".

She alleged that Vanzara played a "direct and key role" in the conspiracy behind the "staged encounter".

Ishrat Jahan, a 19-year-old woman from Mumbra area of Thane district near Mumbai, and three others - Javed Shaikh alias Pranesh Pillai, Amjadali Akbarali Rana and Zeeshan Johar - were killed by the police in an "encounter" on the outskirts of Ahmedabad on June 15, 2004.

At that time, the police had claimed that the four had terror links and plotted to kill then Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi.
The flood of eulogies and the outpouring of sadness that have followed Karunanidhis death is proof to his significance not only in Tamil Nadu but also in Indian politics. (Photo: Twitter/@Kalaignar89)

Chennai: Nothing embodies the vibrancy of Indian democracy than the rags-to-riches story of M Karunanidhi, the five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu. When he started off, he was the underdog among underdogs. Money power and caste influence determine success in politics in post-independent India, but Karunanidhi reached dizzying heights in Tamil Nadu with neither.

The flood of eulogies and the outpouring of sadness that have followed Karunanidhis death is proof to his significance not only in Tamil Nadu but also in Indian politics. He had become such a political giant that a party with no pretence to any ideological moorings other than anti-Karunanidhi views ruled Tamil Nadu for a quarter of a century.

There is no doubt that Periyar, the patriarch of the Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu, is one of the original thinkers of modern India. But he enjoyed a crucial advantage that Karunanidhi never had in his formative years: money. In addition to sincerity and hard work, Periyar also owed his meteoric rise in the Congress party to his wealthy background.

Also Read: Karunanidhi, DMKs captain of 50 years returns to pavilion

Party posts those days had been the preserve of the rich and Periyar wouldnt have made the cut had he not hailed from an affluent family. Even a crusader like Periyar would have had few takers had he not been a wealthy man.

After being disillusioned with the Congress over its failure to address discrimination against non-Brahmins within the organisation, Periyar joined Justice Party, the ideological forerunner of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. Despite introducing caste-based reservation, Justice Party wasnt able to shake off its image as an organisation of rich, upper caste Hindus.

Karunanidhi may not well have risen to the top post in state politics had he been forced to come his way up in Justice Party because he was neither a Mudaliar nor a pannaiyar (who own huge tracts of land). When day-to-day existence was an ordeal, where could Karunanidhi have gone for money to further his political career?

Also Read: A man of letters, Karunanidhi delighted in the arts

Although Karunanidhi was an avowed atheist, C.N. Annadurai was his political god. If not for Anna, there was no way a person with so many inherent disadvantages like Karunanidhi could have achieved his political goals. Anna ensured that his DMK would be the antithesis of Congress, a party of the rich and upper caste people. DMK was tailor-made for the ambitious Karunanidhi. That he had talent to match his ambitions was obvious to all. While Periyar didnt have great faith in the transformative powers of cinema in particular and art in general, Anna not only had an eye for both but also firmly believed that the two could be the vehicle to reach out to the masses. For someone with supreme oratorical and writing gifts like Karunanidhi, Anna naturally became a mentor.

Annas blueprint for political success was a masterstroke as it opened the floodgates for people from non-dominant castes to have a career in politics. Generous to a fault, Anna was a rarity in Indian politics because he never resented the growth of his thambis (younger brothers).

Karunanidhis failure to complete his school education was another hurdle he had to overcome in his political journey. With Annamalai University being the hotbed of Dravidian politics, no wonder many of Annas comrades were graduates from the institution in Chidambaram.

DMKs general secretary K. Anbazhagan, an Annamalai alumnus, was said to have been reluctant to accept Karunanidhi as his leader but he had to fall in line ultimately because the plebeian from Tiruvarur had a brain to rival Rajajis. After reportedly saying that even his wife wouldnt respect him if he accepted Karunanidhi as his leader, Anbazhagan became the most trusted lieutenant of the charismatic DMK leader.

Until his death, Karunanidhi had to endure caste-based slurs. Vaiko, now a born-again Karunanidhi acolyte, had no qualms in slandering him with casteist abuses two years ago. No one took greater pleasure in listening to Karunanidhis penurious early days than the former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, J. Jayalalithaa. She also relished her minions caste-based jibes at Karunanidhi.

It is a tribute to Indian democracy that someone born in the Isai Vellalar community could go on to become one of its most powerful political leaders. In addition to being a numerically insignificant group, Isai Vellalars faced prejudice and humiliation based on their occupation. Although they played the musical instruments primarily in temples, members of the community faced constant ridicule because devadasi system had been prevalent among Isai Vellalar women for many years.

The politically astute Karunanidhi never got tired of attributing the step-motherly treatment he received in the media to his caste and he wasnt wrong on most of the occasions. If ever there was an Indian politician who made a flourishing career out of trials by fire, it was Muthuvel Karunanidhi.
Karunanidhi for the last two years, he was confined to his Gopalapuram residence since he fell ill in October 2016, managing to faintly recognise people with his wide trademark smile. (Photo: Twitter/@kalaignar89)

Chennai: In the passing of Muthuvel Karunanidhi at 94 in Chennai, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has lost not just one of its most distinguished and astonishing leaders who piloted its destiny for nearly 50 years in the post-Annadurai decades, but also by far its most prominent poster boy of the Periyar-galvanised 'Dravidian Movement'.

The towering Tamil Nadu politician Muthuvel Karunanidhi breathed his last on Tuesday, August 7, in Chennai after battling ill health for weeks.

One of the 'founder members' of the DMK since a young band of Tamil enthusiasts rebelled against Periyar and broke away from the parent Dravidar Kazhagam (DK) at a rain-drenched rally in Robinson Park in North Chennai in September 1949 where the birth of DMK was declared, Karunanidhi refused to be an also-ran.

Though for the last two years, he was confined to his Gopalapuram residence since he fell ill in October 2016, managing to faintly recognise people with his wide trademark smile that always lit up his genial forehead, in death too, even as in his turbulent personal and political life spanning over eight decades, Karunanidhi went down fighting to his last breath.

Born in the small village of Thirukkuvalai near Tiruvarur, on June 3, 1924, Karunanidhi never felt sorry for having been a dropout from the then Board High School in Tiruvarur. He plunged into public life at the tender age of 14, floating a student's wing of the Dravidian Movement, styled, "Tamil Nadu Tamil Maanavar Mandram", and simultaneously bringing out a handwritten pamphlet that was to later become 'Murasoli'. He was later Sub-Editor of the Tamil weekly 'Kudi Arasu', started by Periyar in 1925.

See Pictures: RIP Muthuvel Karunanidhi (1924-2018)

A pamphleteer like Tom Paine was born for the Dravidian Movement and from his boyhood days, he began inviting then senior leaders for public meetings at his native place, including Anna and Perasiriyar K Anbazhagan who was to be his long-term friend, philosopher and guide. As days, months and years rolled by, Karunanidhi was to evolve as a multi-faceted personality, a playwright, script writer, captivating orator in Tamil, writer, Editor, Publisher, Legislator, five-time Chief Minister and above all an ace administrator known for his thoughtful, quick and pragmatic decisions.

It is difficult to reinvent a Karunanidhi, which his younger son M K Stalin, present working president of the DMK, is discovering to his discomfort. A great family man, Karunanidhi, a rationalist by temperament, has six children- four sons and two daughters- through three marriages- to Padmavathi, Dayalu Ammal and Rajathi Ammal in that order-.

While M K Muthu, a one-time brief rival to MGR in Tamil cinema, was born of his first wedlock to Padmavathi, former Union Minister, M K Azhagiri, M K Stalin, M K Tamizharasu and daughter Selvi were born of his second marriage to Dayalu. The last but not least, his favourite daughter Ms. Kanimozhi, is Rajathi Ammal's daughter. And the family's inner circle was never complete without the DMK leader's nephew and former Union Commerce Minister 'Murasoli' Maran, termed in DMK circles as Karunanidhi's "brains trust".

But in the early part of his life in politics and public life, the family was only the last priority for Karunanidhi, for all that mattered were his political leaders, close friends in the world of theatre, arts and cinema including the legendary M G Ramachandran and Sivaji Ganesan, and of course the DMK.

An enterprising motivator and grassroots man, he was to soon be a popular fund-raiser for the DMK. So much so, Annadurai on the eve of the 1967 Assembly elections, the historic poll which catapulted DMK to power in Tamil Nadu replacing the Congress, was to introduce Karunanidhi's candidature from Saidapet constituency as "Mr. 11 lakhs", as 'Kalaignar', as he was popularly called, collected that much for DMK's poll campaign.

The earlier, first electoral turning point for the DMK came in 1959 when it captured the then Madras Municipal Corporation. Anna openly acknowledged Karunanidhi's role in that victory and presented him a special ring, a photo-op that the latter would often flaunt to show that he had risen from the ranks. Madras, then Chennai, apart from erstwhile composite Thanjavur district, had thus become a solid DMK bastion until the AIADMK began eroding its metro base in the post-2000 years.

Appointed Treasurer of the DMK in 1961, Karunanidhi was to later be the Deputy Leader of the Opposition during 1962-67. He never lost an Assembly election since he won his first from Kulithalai in 1957 and was elected for the 13th time to the House in 2016 from Tiruvarur.

In 1983, he quit the Assembly membership over the Sri Lankan Tamils issue and was then member of the State Legislative Council during 1984-86. An amazing feat to be a Legislator for over 50 years though after having won the Harbour seat in 1991, he resigned owning 'moral responsibility' for the DMK's comprehensive defeat, in the wake of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's tragic assassination on Tamil Nadu soil during the May 1991 poll campaign.

It took Karunanidhi six months to recover from that shattering tragedy, and also a profound game-changing period for the DMK to completely sever its ties from the Sri Lankan Tamil militant group, LTTE, which was responsible for young Rajiv Gandhi's gory death at Sriperumbudur, the birth place of the great Vaishnavite teacher, Sri Ramanuja.

Incidentally, Karunanidhi's screen-play for the mega tele serial on 'Sri Ramanuja' during his last years, was incomplete. Karunanidhi though, even after his virulent Periyarism had lost its sharp edges, remained a non-believer till his very end. His interest in Ramanuja was, as he said, as a 'great social reformer'. It remained open-ended, like his voluminous unfinished autobiography in Tamil, 'Nenjukku Needhi (Solace for the Heart)'.

He took on the DMK's mantle after Anna's painful demise in February 1969, both at the party and government level- thanks to MGR who helped Karunanidhi pip the elderly and scholarly V R Nedunchezhiyan at the post-. Since 1969 it was a tantalizing, rough roller-coaster ride for Karunanidhi as President of the DMK. That was a new post created above the general secretary and Karunanidhi remained unbeaten there.

Karunanidhi took drubbings for a brief authoritarian phase in the early 1970s. An anti-Malayalee campaign, at places violent, stemming from anathema to MGRs rising popularity miserably backfired. But by 1989, when he came back as Chief Minister after 13 long years, he was already a transformed man.

Karunanidhi's five chief ministerial tenures -- 1969-71, 1971-January 1976 until his government was dismissed under Indira Gandhi's Emergency, 1989-1991 (when DMK government was dismissed for a second time over the LTTE issue), 1996-2001 and 2006-2011 when he presided over a virtual coalition in the state with the Congress and PMK supporting DMK from outside, were a mix of the mundane, ecstatic and of agonising tumult. Even when he started as a PWD Minister in Anna's Cabinet in 1967, the young writer-orator was already a magnetic pull to several in the party.

Karunanidhi's commitment to state autonomy and state rights were singularly unwavering all through, much as the DMK under his tenure contributed substantially to the industrialisation of Tamil Nadu, by adding to the legacy of the earlier Congress initiatives.

The abolition of hand rickshaws, creation of the Slum Clearance Board, enlarging the basket of benefits for the depressed and backward classes, conceding the category of 'most backward classes' in reservation in education and government jobs to Vanniyars and several other communities with a 20 per cent reservation for them, legislating equal property rights for Women, setting up of the State Planning Commission, liberalising the free rice scheme, the role played in setting up the Cauvery Waters Disputes Tribunal in 1990 and establishing the 'TIDEL' park that flagged Tamil Nadu's foray into IT, all go to the DMK's plus side.

His penchant for tact and diplomacy came through in securing the safe release of Kannada thespian Rajkumar from the clutches of forest brigand Veerappan who abducted the actor in July 2000.

But socio-economic development being a double-edged weapon, there were negative spin-offs too. Broad-basing welfare economics looked to be sliding into competitive populism, as the AIADMK under MGR and later Ms. J Jayalalithaa made vaster strides in adding to the bag of subsidies and goodies. Good economics should make for good politics, but in the Tamil Nadu case the process was over-arched by towering personal charisma.

That brings us to the 'Kalaignar' (artiste) in Karunanidhi the political leader, who till the end defended all the state subsidies as being pro-poor. He also made no distinction between plan and non-plan expenditure. Had he not lost his speaking faculty in recent years, he would have opposed the GST as grossly anti-Federal in nature, just like Ms. Jayalalithaa vociferously did.

As author of hundreds of publications, including fiction, historical novels, stage plays, screen plays, speeches and any number of party resolutions- some of the crucial ones were soft on MGR but harder on the irrepressible Vaiko-, from the days he received Rajaji's blessings, Karunanidhi was not to look back. He fought bravely even as a wounded soldier. He knew modern history and "my height" that he did not compete for Prime Ministership with G K Moopanar during the UF leadership crisis in the mid-1990s'.

Karunanidhi, a surprising Gandhian in the early 1970s', even stood shoulder-to-shoulder with BJP leader Atal Behari Vajpayee until the terrible post-Godhra violence in Gujarat in 2002 came as a shocking tester to DMK's secularism. He then firmly backed the Congress led by Sonia Gandhi and Dr Manmohan Singh to the extent the DMK could go. He ably crafted his political path, but the end-game was not his.
Oman Air regional vice-president P.V. Sunil hands over a NORKA fair MoU to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in presence of NORKA vice-chairman K. Varadarajan and CEO Harikrishnan Namboodiri. Other Oman Air officials near by. (Photo: DC)

Thiruvananthapuram: NORKA-Roots and Oman Air have entered into an agreement that offers seven percent discount in base air fares to Malayalis.

NORKA-Roots chief executive officer K. Harikrishnan Namboothiri and Oman Air regional vice-president V.A. Sunil told reporters here on Monday that the offer could be availed of by NRKs who were having the NORKA identity card as well as their families.

The scheme was already on and it could be availed of in all Oman Air flights originating from India to any destination as well as from any destination to India. The discount will be available on all classes also.

NORKA Roots vice-chairman K. Varadarajan said that so far about four lakh NRKs had availed of the NORKA identity card. Talks were on with other international carriers on extending such discounts to NRKs. Though the discount amount would not be very significant, it could benefit the NRKs. For those travelling with families, it would be a relief as each passenger would get the discounts, he said.

At present, Oman Air operates six daily flights from Kerala  one from Thiruvananthapuram, two from Kochi and three from Karippur. Oman Air network also covers all Gulf countries and major destinations in US and Europe, said Mr. Sunil.

A formal agreement between NORKA-Roots and Oman Air was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami said, "Former Chief Minister Karunanidhi's demise is a big loss to Tamil Nadu." (Photo: File)

Mumbai: Expressing grief over the passing away of the Dravidian veteran, Muthuvel Karunanidhi, scores of politicians paid their tributes on Tuesday.

Karunanidhi died at 6.10 pm at the age of 94 at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital after a prolonged illness.

In a series of tweets, PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday described the DMK president as a deep-rooted mass leader who stood for regional aspiration and national progress.

PM Modi will travel to Chennai on Wednesday morning to pay his last respects.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami extended his sympathies to the leader's family, especially his son and DMK Working President M K Stalin. He said that the deceased leader left his "imprint" in national politics.

"Former Chief Minister Karunanidhi's demise is a big loss to Tamil Nadu," Palaniswami said in a statement.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi also condoled the demise of the DMK patriarch and said he strode the stage of Tamil politics like a colossus for six decades.

Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight.#Karunanidhi  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 7, 2018

BJP president Amit Shah expressed sadness at the death of the veteran politician and said, No one can forget his struggle during Emergency, imposed in 1975.

I express my deepest condolences and pray to the Almighty to give strength to Karunanidhi ji's family and followers in this hour of grief to bear the profound loss. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti.  Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 7, 2018

Calling it a "dark day" and an "inexplicable loss", celebrities, including Rajinikanth and Dulquer, mourned the death of Karunanidhi.

"The death of Kalaignar is an unforgettable, dark day in my life. May his soul rest in peace," said Rajinikanth, who himself is taking his first steps in Tamil Nadu politics.

H D Deve Gowda said he has lost his "elder brother." The nation has lost a "stalwart", Gowda said in his condolence message, recalling his association with the former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister for over five decades.

"Karunanidhi's role in me becoming the Prime Minister was huge," the former Prime Minister said, adding that his death is a "great loss" to the country and personally for him.

US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster too joined the leaders in paying tributes.

On behalf of the United States Mission in India, I wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of former Chief Minister Muthuvel #Karunanidhi and the people of Tamil Nadu. He will be remembered for his years of public service to his state and the country at large.  Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) August 7, 2018

Several other political leaders and celebrities remembered Karunanidhi and took to social media to condole the leader's demise.
The Supreme Court also referred to the National Crime Records Bureau Data stating every six hour a woman is raped in the country. (Photo: File)

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday slammed the Bihar government for funding the non-government organisation (NGO) running Muzaffarpur shelter home where minor girls were sedated, tortured, raped and abused.

Criticising the government the court asked, who is giving money to the shelter home in the state?

The apex court asked the state government why officers did not inspect the shelter homes managed by NGOs.

Expressing concerns over the rising incidents of rape in the country, the top court said, Women are being raped left, right and centre. The court also referred to the National Crime Records Bureau Data stating every six hour a woman is raped in the country.

During the hearing, the Supreme Court was told by amicus curiae that no compensation was paid to the alleged victims of sexual assaults at Muzaffarpur shelter home.

Read: Sedated, woke up naked with pain in private parts: Bihar shelter home rape survivors

The apex court resumed the hearing on Muzaffarpur shelter home case on Tuesday.

The court last week had taken suo motu cognisance of the case and had sought explanation from Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government and the Women and Child Development (WC D) Ministry as to why neither body took action to stop minor girls from being raped in shelters home in Muzaffarpur.

On Thursday, the Supreme Court also restrained the media from showing, even in morphed form, images of the alleged victims of rape and sexual assault at a shelter home in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district, observing they cannot be compelled to "relive the trauma" again and again.

Also Read: Cant compel to relive trauma: SC bans morphed images of Bihar shelter rape victims

Over 30 girls were allegedly raped at a shelter home run by one Brajesh Thakur, the chief of the state-funded NGO.

The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls first came to light after an audit report submitted by the Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS), Mumbai, to the state's social welfare department in April.

An FIR was lodged against 11 people, including Thakur on May 31. The probe has now been taken over by the CBI.

In all, sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in their medical examination.

The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani.

Women staff members of the shelter home and Thakur were among those who were arrested by the local police in connection with the case.

(With inputs from agencies)
Chennai: At 14, when many boys of his age will be in school or on the playground or even get excited over going on a picnic on a holiday, M. Karunanidhi had done something remarkable that changed his life and even altered the destiny of Tamil Nadu later on. His sojourn in public life commenced at a tender age.

A young Kurunanidhi

Inspired by the speech of Alagiriswami of the Justice Party, Karunanidhi participated in the anti-Hindu agitations, signaling his entry into politics. He founded an organisation for the local youth of his locality and circulated a handwritten newspaper called Manavar Nesan to its members. Later he founded a student organisation: Tamil Nadu Tamil Manavar Mandram, the first student wing of the Dravidan Movement. He started a newspaper for its members, which became Murasoli, the DMKs organ.

Throughout his life he had held the masses in sway by his oratorical skills, profound knowledge in governance and welfare schemes. Ingenuity and concern for the underprivileged have been his hallmark traits. He also held his party intact till his end.

Perhaps as the Narendra Modi-led government takes pride in providing ten crore LPG connections including four crore free to poor women in the last four years of the BJP rule, as against 13 crore since the last six decades, the poor women of Tamil Nadu, will not forget their Kalaignar who had launched the free gas connection distribution scheme in mid-January 2007. His `1 per kilo rice scheme that he had launched on September 15, 2006, is yet another scheme that still lingers in peoples minds.

When the DMK first came to power in 1967 after defeating the Congress, the slogan was oru rupaikku moontru padi arasi (three measures of rice for one rupee). However, after assuming power, the new Government soon realised that it was not possible to provide three padi (one padi is about 1.5 kg) rice for one rupee, and the slogan was dexterously rewritten as: oru padi nitchayam, moondru padi latchiyam (one padi is for sure, three padis is our target).

After launching the Kalaignar insurance scheme for life saving treatment in 2009, M. Karunanidhi had said, the DMK believes in starting schemes that will help the needy. The former CM had said that after he and his wife dies, he wants a free hospital to be built on the land he owns in his native village. He also wanted his Chennai house to be converted into a free hospital after his wifes time. His wishes, surely would take him closer to the masses.

He has been elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly 13 times (from 1957 to 2016 elections) and once to the abolished Tamil Nadu Legislative Council.

He had held various positions in the party and government during his long career in Tamil Nadu politics, though he faced electoral defeats against his primary opponent iconic leader M.G. Ramachandrans AIADMK until the latters death in 1987.

After a brief stint as Chief Minister during late 1980s his government was dismissed by the Chandra Shekar government on accusations of actively supporting the LTTE.

Karunanidhi became the CM in 1996 following a massive win. After a five-year rule, his party again lost at the charismatic revolutionary leader J. Jayalalithaas AIADMK in 2001. He was back in the saddle on May 13, 2006 after DMK-led alliance defeated his political adversary Jayalalithaa. Since 2016, he represented the Tiruvarur constituency in the Assembly.
Chennai: When someone convicted by the Supreme Court of high corruption can be given a memorial on the Marina, why not my thalaivan who toiled for so many years for the Tamils and the Tamil cause, and who gave me the roof over my head? The faceless scream from the huge crowd mourning outside the hospital while their Kalaignar, resting at last, was being readied for the ride back home, seemed to epitomise the anguish and anger of the Tamil people; in truth, others too from across the world.

Shortly later came the news that the family was moving the High Court seeking directive to the state government to allocate space besides the Anna Memorial on the Marina to rest Karunanidhi. It appeared that DMK working president M.K. Stalin had written to Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami pointing out the long public life of his father and seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of his mentor Anna on the beach. He also met the CM shortly before his fathers death to plead his case.

But the government in its wisdom chose to reject the familys request. A statement from chief secretary Girija Vaidyanathan said it was unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications. Hence, the government is prepared to allott a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

The news of Marina rejection hit the DMK cadres as a double-blow after their leaders death. Vendum, Vendum, Marina Vendum, chanted the angry crowd accompanying the ambulance carrying the leaders body to his Gopalapuram residence. There were reports of some sporadic incidents of violent protests by angry followers on the Marina issue.

Just before that at the hospital, MDMK chief Vaiko appeared to have set the tone for the cadre fury when his face went red before the TV cameras as he warned the government, Do not play with firedo not create law and order problem unnecessarily. At a time when the Tamils are mourning the loss of their tallest leader, how could the government pour fire into their hearts?

#Marina4Kalaignar became the hottest twitter handle within a short time of being launched by the angry followers. Congress president Rahul Gandhi was among the many who responded, posting: Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief.

Why should a political Colossus like Karunanidhi, and there is no better word to describe his contribution to TN, not be given his due resting place at Marina Beach. Vendetta politics in life is one thing, but surely not in death, said a tweet from noted journalist Rajdeep Sardesai of India Today Group.

And the tweet from popular TV commentator Dr Sumanth Raman said: Decision to deny space on the Marina is in my opinion a blunder by CMO, TN. Statement given by CS (chief secretary) can be overruled by CM. Best is to overrule CS and do it now.

Perhaps the CM would do just that as the dawn breaks over the grieving TN. Some reports suggest that the government would not contest too hard the DMKs court petition for Marina.
Hyderabad/ New Delhi: Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar telephoned Telangana state Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Tuesday and requested his support for his party candidate Harivansh Narayan Singh in the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman election scheduled on August 9. Meanwhile, after a day of political twists and turns, Opposition parties on Tuesday finally decided to field a Congress candidate for the post of deputy chairperson after the NCPs Vandana Chavan decided to opt out.

Responding to Mr Kumars request, Mr Rao said that he would discuss it with party colleagues and take a final decision on this. The NDA led by the BJP has decided to field JDU MP Mr Harivansh Narayan Singh as its candidate in the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman election. Opposition parties are yet to decide their candidate. TRS leader in the Rajya Sabha, Mr K. Keshav Rao, said that their party had not taken a decision on the issue. Speaking to this newspaper, he said the TRS chief would take a decision on Wednesday. TRS sources said that the party may decide to abstain from voting to maintain equal distance from the BJP and the Congress.

In the recent no-trust motion against the NDA government, the TRS MPs abstained from voting. But in the Rajya Sabha deputy chairman election, TRS support is crucial for the BJP. TRS sources said if pressure came from the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, CM KCR may decide to vote in favor of the JDU candidate. CM KCR has no dilemma as he is unlikely to support the Congress candidate. Meanwhile the YSR Congress has decided to vote against the NDA candidate in the election of Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha.

YSRC MP, V. Vijayasai Reddy, speaking to media on Tuesday said that their party Chief Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy had decided to vote against the NDA candidate. The YSRC has two MPs in the Rajya Sabha. Vijayasai Reddy said that they would vote against Harivansh Narayan Singh of JDU who is the BJP led NDA candidate. Earlier the YSRC backed the NDA candidates in the Presidential and Vice Presidential elections. This time the YSRC has taken a decision to vote against the NDA candidate in a protest against not granting special status to Andhra Pradesh.

The Telugu Desam party which has six members in the Rajya Sabha is likely to vote for the opposition candidate. If the Congress fields its own candidate also, the TD will extend its support to him. On Monday in the Rajya Sabha the Congress voted for TD MP CM Ramesh in the Public Accounts Committee election. With the support of the Congress, Ramesh won as a member of the PAC with a record majority. Ramesh also attended the meeting of opposition parties organized by AICC leader and MP Ghulam Nabi Azad to discuss about the opposition candidate. The TD will support the opposition candidate as AP Chief Minister and TD Chief N Chandrababu Naidu has turned a bitter enemy of the BJP.
Chennai: Madras High Court has adjourned the hearing of DMK's plea seeking burial of late party supremo M Karunanidhi's mortal remains at Chennai's Marina Beach. The court will now resume hearing at 8 am as Tamil nadu government has reportedly sought more time to file a reply in the case.

The judges heard the arguments by counsel for the DMK and the state government before adjourning the matter around 1.15 a.m for resumed hearing at 8 in the morning. The DMK counsel wanted to know the legal ground on which its demand was rejected following which the advocates for the government pleaded for time till morning to file a counter affidavit which the court allowed.

DMK chief M Karunanidhi, a colossus in Tamil Nadu politics, poet, columnist and script writer, who left an indelible imprint on the state's public life for over five decades, died today, setting the stage for a late night courtroom drama over where he shall be buried. The 94-year-old leader breathed his last at the Kauvery Hospital in downtown Chennai at 6.10 p.m after waging a grim battle for life for 11 days, the hospital said. He had not made any public appearance for about two years due to failing health.

Within minutes of Karunanidhi's death, a huge row erupted after the state's AIADMK government rejected the demand of the DMK, its long-standing political rival in state politics, for land on the famed sands of the Marina beach where he could be buried. Wasting no time, DMK's counsel P Wilson and A Sarvanan rushed to the residence of H G Ramesh, the Acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, with a plea to direct the state government to revoke its decision denying permission for Karunanidhi's burial and erection of a memorial to him on the beach. Their plea was granted and Justice Ramesh and his fellow judge S S Sundar began hearing the petition minutes before midnight.

In a twist to the late night proceedings, unprecedented in Tamil Nadu's legal history, two of the petitioners who had moved the court against late chief minister J Jayalalithaa's burial at the Marina and construction of a memorial there, withdrew their applications. One of them, advocate S Duraisamy, said the claim of the government that the memorial to Karunanidhi's mentor and former chief minister C N Annadurai facing the Marina beach, where the DMK sought land for its leader's burial, was in an ecologically sensitive zone, was "misleading". He told reporters outside the Acting Chief Justice's residence that it was on the banks of the Cooum river close to the beach but not in the eco-sensitive zone like the memorials of Jayalalithaa and former AIADMK chief minister the late M G Ramachandran.

Similarly, K Balu of PMK also withdrew his petition seeking the court's direction against use of the Marina as a burial ground. Earlier in the day, another PIL filed in the Madras High Court seeking to restrain the Corporation of Greater Chennai from permitting any burial of bodies on the Marina beach was dismissed as withdrawn.

Hours before the unsavoury courtroom saga unfolded, Karunanidhi was declared dead by the hospital where he was undergoing treatment since his admission on July 28 when his blood pressure had dipped. "With deep anguish we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 pm. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond.

"We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family members and fellow Tamilians worldwide," a press release by Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Executive Director of Kauvery Hospital, said. President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned Karunanidhi's death. "Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers," Kovind tweeted.

Modi said Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. "Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," Modi said in a series of tweets.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi also took to Twitter to condole Karunanidhi's death. "Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," he said on Twitter.

Both Modi and Gandhi, besides a host of other leaders are expected to arrive here tomorrow to pay their last respects to the departed doyen of Tamil Nadu politics. Soon after Karunanidhi's death, his son and DMK working president M K Stalin despatched his emissary and the party's deputy leader in the state assembly Duraimurugan to Chief Minister K Palaniswamy requesting him to allot land in the mausoleum complex of Annadurai.

Soon afterwards, the government issued a statement saying it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications." Hence, the government is prepared to allot a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

Some reports said the government was reluctant about allotting space for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina as he was not a sitting chief minister. Former chief minister M G Ramachandran and his protegee J Jayalalitha were buried at the Marina beach and memorials to them were erected there. Both were bitter foes of Karunanidhi in politics.
Chennai: With the lakhs of DMK cadres from across the state expected to come and see their leader for the last time, the state police have deployed more than 1.20 lakh police personnel in the state.

In a meeting convened by DGP T.K. Rajendiran on Tuesday evening, the police were directed to ensure the uninterrupted supply of milk, medicines and other basic needs. DGP had directed to provide tight security to bus stands, railway stations and other public places, the source said.

Meanwhile, the Greater Chennai Police, apart from scrambling its entire strength of 22,000 personnel, additional 10,000 police personnel have been brought to the city.

As many as 20 IPS officials from other districts have camped in the city to coordinate the security arrangements, police source said.

Apart from deploying more than 30,000 police personnel in the city, 12 companies of para-military forces (1,200 personnel) have been deployed near Rajaji Hall, where Karunanidhis body to be kept for the public to pay homage, and the roads leading to Rajaji Hall such as Anna Salai, Wallajah Road apart from Gopalapuram and CIT Colony.
Chennai: The government of Tamil Nadu was in a cleft stick after having decided to oppose the last rites and burial of five-time chief minister Muthuvel Karnunanidhi on the Marina beach. Considered a premium site of the city and reckoned to be the second longest beach in the world, the Marina has become a status symbol after the burial there of three chief ministers who died in office  CN Annadurai, MG Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa.

The matter was taken to court in a late night hearing by DMK lawyers seeking a rightful place for their leader M Karunanidhi. Opposing his burial on the prestigious sands was chief minister of Tamil Nadu Edappadi Palaniswami who may have taken such a decision on his own even without even consulting his deputy O. Panneerselvam. At the time of going to press, there were signs that the government was having second thoughts on the unpopular decision taken by the CM and could even reverse its decision in the hearing before the acting chief justice of Madras HC heading a bench with another judge in Justice Sundar.

The row over the burial did not happen only after the death of Karunaidihi early evening of Tuesday. Permission had been sought from the government and approaches made to the National Green Tribunal to allow one more burial on the sands although such an action would be in breach of coastal regulations when it comes to building memorials for leaders and against the recommendation of the NGT that Jayalalithaa's burial should be the last at the site.

The historic stretch of sands with a walking promenade dominated by the Gandhi statue at one end and the memorials to Anna, MGR and Jayalalithaa on the other, would be no less if a fourth burial and memorial were to be allowed. n P3

The point being made in defence of the government that burial could be allowed only if serving CMs were to die like the first three did in office does not hold water as Karunanidhi could be considered as great a Tamil Nadu leader and a charismatic national figure as his predecessors.

The DMK was not making a political point of the burial as much as a sentimental one. Great Tamil leaders had been afforded a burial on the sands as much as historical figures in great Tamil poets and even the tragedienne Kannagi of Silapathigaram fame have been honoured with statues on the famous Kamaraj Salai along the Marina drive. It would have been magnanimous on the part of the government to have accepted the genuine claim and allowed the burial instead of making an issue of it and allotting two acres of land at Gandhi Mandapam in the Gunidy national park area next to the virtually forgotten memorials to the likes of Rajaji and Kamaraj.

This is not a question of allowing one more burial even if the NGT and such other bodies were against more memorials on the beach close to the Bay of Bengal waters on the Marina. Karunanidhi has a right to claim a place there by virtue of having been a tall leader of the Tamils as well as a regional satrap who had determined who would rule in New Delhi by virtue of his DMK party's support. He was a nationalist as much as any of the others, including his mentor Annadurai and his party colleague who was later to become his rival in MGR and his protege Jayalalithaa.

If common sense were to prevail, Edapaddi Palaniswami would have reversed his decision to oppose the Marina interment of Karunanidhi's remains as much as he did the honouring of the celebrated life of Jayalalithaa on the same promenade less than two years ago when she died in December 2016.
Chennai: It was a somber evening, a few months before the April-May 2001 Assembly elections in Tamil Nadu. Anna Arivalayam, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) headquarters on the arterial Anna Salai in Chennai, was relatively quiet that day.

The DMK president and then Chief Minister, Muthuvel Karunanidhi, was attired in an all-white splendour, as he smilingly gingered into the party office, something he did every day until even recently, to meet party men and other visitors. Ennai Vida Oru Malivaana Mudal Amaichar Ungalakku Kidaipaargala? he would once-in-a-while taunt his visitors with this one-liner to underscore how accessible he was at all times.

Offering shawl to Congress president Sonia Gandhi in Delhi.

For me, it was an unusual encounter with the Dravidian patriarch. Having browsed through a new arrival at the Oxford University Press (OUP) bookshop earlier that day, titled Indias Development Experience- Selected Writings of S. Guhan, a distinguished economist and civil servant, I was stuck by one reference in that work.

Guhan in his book (published years later after his tragic demise in February 1998), had discussed at some length the more comprehensive package of social security measures introduced by an earlier DMK regime in 1989 when Mr. Karunanidhi had come back to power in the State after a 13-year Vanvaas, since he lost power to the charismatic actor-politician, M.G. Ramachandran leading the AIADMK.

The DMK leader with the then external affairs minister Pranab Mukherjee as Kanimozhi and her mother look on at their house in Chennai.

Guhan had devoted six pages, commending the Tamil Nadu Experience in social security measures. So, in a public-spirited rabbit run, I purchased a copy and straight headed to Arivalayam that evening. I first ran into the then DMK treasurer, Arcot Veerasamy, telling him I need a few minutes with Kalaignar to present a copy of a very important book.

Within minutes, Mr. Veerasamy took me inside to meet Karunanidhi. After the customary, Vanakkam, I gave him Guhan's book and showed him the relevant pages and then stammered a few more words: Sir, it is a big thing for your party's work to be discussed in an Oxford publication. And coming from Guhan, it had an added objectivity, for he was accomplished scholar even if he was Karunanidhi's advisor for some time, notwithstanding DKs barb as how a Brahmin could be an advisor to a Chief Minister from the DMK party (in 1989).

Karunanidhi gracefully accepted the book, promising to read it as early as possible. Sporting a nonchalant smile and giving me one keen look through his trademark dark glasses, he then instantly but politely asked me, Are you related to Guhan? No sir, I am only Guhan's admirer, I replied squeezing my heart. That's fine, he said, putting me at ease and thanked me again for the book.

That personal brush with the DMK patriarch set me thinking, how inoffensively and unwittingly, Karunanidhi had opened up a hermeneutic of the compound metaphor of the now 100-years-old Dravidian Movement itself- Brahmin- Non Brahmin. Though he was friendly to one and all including Brahmins saying DMK, as stated by his late leader C N Annadurai, opposed only Brahmanism and not Brahmins, he never lost sight of the ideological roots of Periyar's Dravidian Movement that took forward the Justice Party's legacy of social justice for the OBCs', oppressed and depressed communities. If I had not met Periyar and Anna, I would have become a Communist, he would later say.

And Karunanidhi was always quite candid about these things. Once, countering late Chief Minister MGR's move to delete all caste name suffixes from street names in Chennai, Karunanidhi wondered: It was a Nair, a Mudaliar, a Chetty and a Naidu who initially made up the Justice Party; take away the suffixes, what remains? Yet, thanks to his social origins from a very poor MBC group of Isai Velalars, Karunanidhi outgrew all these narrow walls into a great Tamil leader, orator, and writer as one saw over the years.

Starting off as a pamphleteer against Hindi imposition at his tender age of 13 on the streets of Tiruvarur, close to his native village of Thirukuvalai in erstwhile Thanjavur district, the daily column he wrote in Murasoli that he founded, almost till the very end, was the centerpiece of his hold over the DMK after Annadurai's untimely death in February 1969. The party went through grave times during the Emergency and split several times, yet Karunanidhi stood ground, as Murasoli was his Hermes to reach out to his party men and people at large.

There was the Sarkaria Commission, which probed charges of corruption during his earlier Chief Ministerial stint and which indicted the DMK for organised corruption in the mid-1970s. Much later, DMK was again assailed by the Jain Commissions interim report for having enabled a free run to the Tamil militant group LTTE, in the run-up to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's assassination in Sriperumbudur in May 1991.

But Karunanidhi stood like rock to protect the DMK and braved out after hobnobbing with Vajpayee-led BJP to re-negotiate an electoral alliance with Sonia Gandhi-led Congress for the 2004 Lok Sabha polls. If there was anyone after Anna who could keep the DMK intact amid several crises, it is only 'Kalaignar, the party's senior Prof K Anbazhagan had said.

Even during his fifth term as Chief Minister (2006-11), when Karunanidhi was assailed by the opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, that the stain of Sarkaria Commission's findings had not left the DMK, he did not lose his nerve in the House. After all the din, Karunanidhi retorted with style and substance: At the end of it all, even MGR, who had spearheaded the memorandum of charges, said he had no personal knowledge of them and had merely forwarded what his friends (then CPI leaders) had given. For all the acrimony, the house split into laughter, showing up his rare political sagacity.

Even in the case of pursuing the corruption charges against the former Chief Minister, J Jayalalithaa after the DMK-TMC combine won a massive verdict in the 1996 Assembly polls, insiders in the DMK told this correspondent that he was reluctant to arrest Ms. Jayalalithaa. But surely, his absolute faith and trust in his nephew, the late Union Minister Murasoli Maran, had led him to it, with the senior Maran reportedly telling his uncle, people have given us a mandate to act against corruption.

But with the arrest of Ms. Jayalalithaa on December 7, 1996, (curiously Amma passed away almost exactly two decades later on December 5, 2016), a Rubicon was crossed in Tamil Nadu politics, sharply polarizing the DMK and the AIADMK as never before.

Ironically, after Murasoli Maran's demise, much of the ills that came to haunt the DMK later, both at the State and the Centre, stemmed from the fallout of the rapid growth of the Kalanidhi Maran-headed Sun TV group. A series of dramatic developments took intra-familial ties to a new low. It began with Karunanidhi's wife, Mrs. Dayalu, divesting her familys 20 per cent stake in the Sun Group in November 2005. Karunanidhi himself, insiders confide, was kept in the dark about some of its new acquisitions.

The flashpoint came when the Tamil Daily, Dinakaran in May 2007, days before Karunanidhi was to celebrate his 50 years as member of the Tamil Nadu Assembly (since he was first elected to the House from Kulithalai in 1957), publishing a survey that showed his elder son, M.K. Azhagiri, and his half-sister Ms. Kanimozhi, far behind his younger son, M.K. Stalin, in a popular rating of the succession battle for the DMK's top leadership. In between, Karunanidhi, consciously, had already decided to reduce DMK's dependence on SUN Network and single-handedly floated a new Tamil channel, Kalaignar TV. The rest, as they say is history.

At the height of the Dinakaran survey controversy - then Lok Sabha Speaker Dr Somnath Chatterjee had come down all the way from Delhi to felicitate Karunanidhi in the Assembly with both his wives watching from the VIP visitors gallery- Karunanidhi as leader of DMK was unflinching. The party quickly took steps to remove Dayanidhi Maran, then IT minister from the UPA Cabinet, implying the split in the first family was beyond repair. It looked much more serious than Vaiko's expulsion from DMK in 1993.

I am happy you have all come to see me; this itself is my strength, he told the media after he underwent a major hip surgery in May 2008 that was to confine him to a wheel chair for the rest of his life. Despite attempts at intra-familial reconciliation at his Gopalapuram residence later, DMK found itself in the woods, more so after details of the 2G spectrum allocation scam was to blow on its face in the run-up to 2009 Lok Sabha polls, amid Dayanidhi Maran and his ministerial successor, A. Raja, locking horns.

Even in the face of the seemingly indefensible, Karunanidhis unbeatable rhetoric and humour was unmatched during the poll campaign that year: If your thayir kaari, more kaari, and old vegetable vendors have a mobile phone today, it is thanks to A Raja, he thundered. But being a Dalit was A Rajas handicap, he added in his speeches. Later, when Raja, Kanimozhi and others were acquitted in the 2G case by the trial court earlier this year, the DMK recovered considerable lost ground.

Karunanidhi's early moorings as a dialogue and screen-play writer for Tamil films/theatre since the early 1940s, is by now legendary. The Jupiter Pictures, founded by Tirupur M Somasundaram and S K Mohideen, not only launched the former alongside people like MGR into the new world of Tamil Cinema, but that banner gave Tamil Cinema some of its greatest hits. With Paraksakthi (1952), the movie that also launched Sivaji Ganesans career, Karunanidhi reached a peak in using cinema as a vehicle for communicating the political ideology of the Dravidian Movement led by Periyar. Salem Modern Theatres Sundarams benevolence was another strand of his early film career which he cherished.

Equally, Karunanidhis contributions to Tamil literature have been equally distinct, his Kuraloviam, and a later attempt to crack the ancient grammatical treatise Tholkappiyam in his Tholkaapiya Poonga have stood out. The DMK patriarchs larger contribution to Tamil culture and aesthetics speak through his Valluvar Kottam, a memorial for Saint-poet Thiruvalluvar in Chennai in the mid-1970s and later unveiling the 133-feet tall statue of Thiruvalluvar at land's end of Kanyakumari, sculpted by Sri Ganapathy Sthapathy, at the beginning of the new millennium in January 2000. Both projects had a fair share of controversies, but neither helped him to solidify his Tamil constituency.

As a reporter, one cannot but remember Karunanidhi giving a masterly presentation of the genesis of the Sri Lankan Tamil crisis-, both prior to Rajiv Gandhi's assassination and post-May 1991 tragedy on Tamil Nadu soil-, when he piloted a historic resolution in the Assembly in April 2008, urging the Manmohan Singh government to give up its hands off policy and re-initiate a meaningful dialogue process between the warring parties in Sri Lanka to find an amicable solution to the festering Tamil question. They (Congress) have already borne heavy losses; they have lost their great leader Rajiv Gandhi in pursuance of the Tamils cause. So to fault or blame them now is futile, he said with a new sense of realism and reconciliation towards the Congress then.

Karunanidhi not only visited Rajiv's memorial at Sriperumbuduer along with Ms. Sonia Gandhi, but also in a rare, expansive gesture visited the Congress party headquarters of Satyamurthy Bhavan in Chennai on Rajiv Gandhis birth anniversary in August 2007. It was the first such visit by any DMK leader and a much mellowed Karunanidhi by then pleaded that DMK, Congress and Left parties should work together in the larger interests of defending secularism and democracy in the country.

One distinct impression: Shortly before the 1989 Assembly polls, rains were pounding as he was to address a DMK rally at VOC Park Grounds in Coimbatore. Karunanidhi was returning after attending a meeting in Ooty, and he braved the rains not to disappoint his party cadres in Coimbatore also. Several speakers before him chided the Rain Gods. But when Karunanidhi rose to speak, he promptly refuted all of them quoting a couplet from Thiruvalluvar's Thirukkural, saying rains were needed for the good of all.

And years later in January 2007, at a function in Chennai, when the DMK Chief shared a dais to felicitate the Spiritual Guru of Ananthpur, Sathya Sai Baba, Karunanidhi displayed the same spirit of accommodation though personally an atheist, and more of an agnostic later in his life. People tomorrow may raise eyebrows how an atheist is sharing a platform with Sai Baba. But what brings me here is the underlying principle that we (DMK) value that service to man is service to God, he mused. That was Muthuvel Karunanidhi the man, for all his achievements and shortcomings as a politician.
SRINAGAR: An Army major and three soldiers were killed in a gun fight raging in Gurez area along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmirs Bandipore district since midnight Monday night. Officials said that two militants among a group of infiltrators have also been killed. Bandipores Senior Superintendent of Police Zulfikar Ahmad said the firing started at around 1 am on Tuesday.

Defence spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia in Srinagar said, A major infiltration bid has been foiled. Two terrorists were killed. One of our officers and three soldiers have laid down their lives while foiling the infiltration bid. Earlier, Bandipores deputy commissioner Shahid Iqbal Choudhary tweeted, Ceasefire violation in Gurez. Some media reports also reported about the armies of India and Pakistan trading fire along the de facto border in same area. When asked about it, the defence spokesman told this correspondent As far as I know it was an infiltration bid which has been foiled by our alert jawans. The clash is going on.

He identified the slain Army personnel as Major KP Rane, Havaldar Jamie Singh, Havaldar Vikramjeet and rifleman Mandeep of 36 Rashtriya Rifles. Meanwhile, the government has said that 69 militants have infiltrated into Jammu and Kashmir from across the border till June this year, Lok Sabha was informed on Tuesday. There were 133 attempts of infiltration by militants from across the border and there were 69 net infiltrations.
New Delhi: After a day of political twists and turns, Opposition parties on Tuesday finally decided to field a Congress candidate for the post of Deputy Chairperson after the NCPs Vandana Chavan decided to opt out after having almost being short-listed. The other option of fielding DMKs Tiruchi Siva was ruled out after the death of the Partys founder M. Karunanidhi. The choice had remain-ed between a Congress candidate and nominated member K.T.S Tulsi which tilted in favour of the Congress when many leaders pointed out that it was the largest Opposition party.

In a day of political twists and turns, the Opposition parties first met in the morning and zeroed in on Ms Chavan. Significantly, the meeting was attended by NCP chief Sharad Pawar himself giving credence to the speculation his party would field their candidate. However, at a meeting later in the evening, the NCP leadership is learnt to have told the other parties that BJD would support JD(U) candidate Harivansh Narain Singh so it would like to withdraw its candidate.

In another twist, however, the Biju Janata Dal issued a statement barely an hour later saying that it had not yet taken a decision on who to support and will take a call on Wednesday. The statement also pointed out that in the past for presidential polls, the JD(U) had not supported P.A. Sangma as requested by the BJD. They also said that Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had received calls from Nitish Kumar, Sharad Pawar, Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh seeking support for their respective candidates. Even if the BJD decides to take a neutral stand and abstain from voting, the Opposition will have an edge.

After the evening meeting, Congress sources told this newspaper there was no option but to field a candidate from its own ranks as all others had refused. PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti tweeted that she would vote against the NDA candidate as did YSR Congress Party. Both parties have two MPs each.Similarly, AIADMK made it clear that it would vote for the NDA candidate.
Hyderabad: The TPCC on Tuesday alleged that the TRS was provoking its student's wing of in the Osmania University against AICC president Rahul Gandhi's visit to the campus. TPCC spokesperson Gajjela Kantham on Tuesday said that the people of Telangana welcomed the Congress chief's visit to the state. He alleged that the TRS was provoking the Osmania students saying that Mr Gandhi did not visit the campus when1,200 students sacrificed their lives for a separate Telangana state.

Mr Kantham alleged that it was the TRS leaders and the KCR family who instigated the students to sacrifice their lives during the Telangana movement. Mr Kantham said the sacrifice by the students was one of the reasons which prompted UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi to grant separate Telangana state. The TPCC spokesperson asked the students to question Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao about implementation of his assurances. He said Mr Gandhi was coming to Telangana to question about these assurances by the CM and to expose how he was cheating the people.
Nineveh's Assyrians Are Vanishing, Lack Basic Services: Church Leaders

Christians are vanishing from the Nineveh plains, according to church leaders in the provincial towns of Bahzani and Bashiqa, and Baghdad's failure to provide services means those who fled the ISIS onslaught of 2014 are unlikely to return. "We had approximately 400 Assyrian Christian families in Bahzani. About 40 percent to 45 percent left Iraq altogether. About 160 families have returned," Fram al-Khouri, a pastor from Bahzani, told Rudaw.

"The people got tired of Iraq's circumstances," he said. Successive wars, international sanctions, and the arrival of ISIS have all contributed to the migration of Iraq's Christians to Jordan, Canada, the US, Europe, Turkey, and other places. "The Christian human no longer has a clear vision of what will become of Iraq in the future. If the people know there will be security, stability, and that everything will return to what it used to be, I am sure even the ones who left will return," Khouri said. "Lately the phenomenon of sectarianism and such has appeared. These are reasons to worry," he added. Baghdad continues to neglect the religious minorities of Nineveh, starving them of services. Khouri says despite all Iraq's riches, the community hasn't received even $1. "I think there is no attention given because we are Christians and Yezidis," the pastor added. Father Bolis Afrim, another church leader in Bashiqa, has seen a similar decline in the community. Around 40-50 percent of the town's 700 Christian families have migrated, he says. But he's optimistic about the security situation. "I could say the areas of Bahzani and Bashiqa are the most stable right now because of families returning," Afrim told Rudaw. Christian, Yezidi, and Shabak community representatives sent a letter to the federal government and the Nineveh provincial council this week opposing the plan to settle the Arab families in Bashiqa. Afrim said they are not against the resettling of families displaced by war, but that the policy should not come at their expense. They hope to "preserve the special character of the area". The minorities are also concerned by plans to resettle 450 Arab families in the area -- a process likened to Saddam Hussein's Arabization program. Communities fear this is now a process of "Shiitification". Abdulrahim Shamari, a member of Nineveh provincial council, made the resettlement request to the Iraqi interior ministry. The interior minister has reportedly accepted the plan. "We never accept this," Salim Shabak, an MP and member of the Shabak minority, told Rudaw. He said Shabaks, Yezidis, Kakais, Christians, and Turkmens are united in their opposition. "Their aim is to bring 450 families, transfer their residency documents to Nineveh plain, and later they will come to buy houses and lands. Their bigger aim is to bring up to 2,000 families until the area is completely Arabized and a demographic change is carried out so there is no votes for Kurds in Nineveh plain," Shabak added. Policies of demographic change are outlawed under the Iraqi constitution. "These people are very vicious and helped ISIS," Shabak claimed. He fears the decision is a deliberate effort to undermine Article 140 of the Iraqi constitution, which covers the disputed territories between Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. "Nineveh plain is part of Kurdistan [Region]. We never accept it from anyone to occupy our lands and threaten us," he said. ISIS systematically targeted religious minorities, especially on the Nineveh plains, when it swept through the province in summer 2014. It committed genocide against the Kurdish Yezidi. Christians fled persecution.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the growing incidents of rape in India and said that women are being raped left, right, and centre. A three Judge bench of Justices Madan B. Lokur Deepak Gupta and K.M. Joseph hearing the suo motu petition relating to rape incidents in Muzaffarpur shelter home in Bihar quoted the National Crime Records Bureau data and said that a woman is raped every six hours in the country. Justice Lokur told amicus curiae Aparna Bhat and counsel Vrinda Grover that as per the 2016 NCRB data, 38,947 women were raped in India, the highest being in Madhya Pradesh, followed by Uttar Pradesh.

Expressing his shock and anguish, the Judge asked the counsel What is to be done? Girls and women are getting raped left, right and centre. What action these State governments are taking to ensure protect to women and children. Advocate Aparna Bhat, told the court that no compensation has been paid to the alleged victims of sexual assault at the Muzaffarpur shelter home. She also said that one of the girls, who was allegedly raped at the shelter home in Muzaffarpur, was still missing. Ms. Grover, counsel for Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), which conducted an audit of shelter homes, told the court that out of 110 such institutions in Bihar, grave concerns have been raised about 15.

To this, senior counsel Ranjit Kumar, for the Bihar government told the bench that nine cases of sexual abuse have been lodged involving these 15 institutions run by various NGOs. Taking note of the submission that videos and photographs of minors in rape cases had been uploaded in the social media, the bench directed them to be removed and also directed initiation of action against the woman for uploading such videos;. The court further directed the media not to use photos of underage rape survivors on print, electronic and social media, even in morphed form.

It also said that if interviewed, the minor victims of sexual abuse would have a serious mental impact observing they cannot be compelled to relive the trauma again and again. The bench had said that it had not restrained the police authority from conducting probe and if they want to question the alleged victims, they would have to take assistance of professional counsellors and qualified child psychiatrist in consultation with National Institute of Mental Health. When Ms. Grover pointed out that the State had not conducted any social audit of NGOs who are running the shelter homes, the Bench questioned the Bihar government for funding the NGO running Muzaffarpur shelter home where girls were sexually abused.
65-year-old Imran Khan is set to become the next prime minister of Pakistan with his PTI emerging as the single largest party in the election held on July 25, winning 116 of 270 seats. (Photo: AP)

It is quite remarkable how Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistans presumptive PM Imran Khan have hit upon the same slogan to pitch to their respective countries. Mr Modi doesnt tire talking of New India while the Pakistani leader says it in Hindi/Urdu: Naya Pakistan! Are they similar in outlook? Will they be on the same wavelength when it comes to bilateral relations?

These questions are premature. Much depends on how Mr Khan copes as a politician in government, one holding the highest civilian office, especially in relation to the Army, as in Pakistan its the Army that matters most. Specifically in Mr Khans case, its thought the military is the power behind the throne.

There are other considerations too. As a politician, Mr Khans popularity was rising over the years, and yet he needed the unmistakeable push the Army gave him. But hes not the only one the Army has lately promoted.

Extremists and terrorists were made to run in the July 25 election in the militarys effort to mainstream them. To a man, they lost. And yet, as an acute Indian observer of Pakistan, Tilak Devasher, a former senior Cabinet Secretariat officer whose 2016 book Pakistan: Courting the Abyss drew high praise from leading Pakistanis, said recently: Though the extremists lost, they have been mainstreamed. They can wear party colours. The Army has succeeded in its objective.

Clearly, the terrorists can now be legitimate political operatives assembled under various party flags. They will, in fact, be the Armys political storm-troopers and act as a forceful check on the incoming PM, should he begin to develop ideas of his own.

Whether Mr Khan turns out to be like Mr Modi or not, in his background, temperament and capability (in very different fields), he bears comparison to the dodgy but brilliant  and ill-fated  Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Bhutto had an advantage over Mr Khan. Until he himself created his nemesis, Gen. Zia-ul Haq, for a long time he dealt with an Army mired in uncertainties and, after the 1971 defeat and Bangladeshs creation, faced demoralisation. Even so, Bhuttos approach is instructive.

In his just-published Pakistan: At the Helm, Devasher says: Bhutto seemed determined to get into power, by hook or by crook... On one occasion (he) told Asghar Khan in 1970: We can rule together. When Asghar Khan asked about his programme after coming into power, Bhutto chuckled and his reply was honest, though shocking to the air marshal. He said: The programme is to rule. The people are stupid and I know how to fool them. I will have the danda in my hand and no one will be able to remove us for 20 years.

Once entrenched in power, Bhutto systematically moulded state institutions to his will. They got badly damaged and the state suffered the consequences. As Jamsheed Marker notes, the judiciary was made subservient, the powerful civil service was ruined with the introduction of the Lateral Entry Scheme that brought in party activists.

Mr Khan faces a far more confident Army. Still, how he navigates his way through the labyrinth will be interesting to watch. PM Imran Khans first priority will be to tackle the huge financial debt imposed upon Pakistan by Chinas special aid funnelled for the China- Pakistan Economic Corridor.

The Americans have said theyd use their influence in the IMF to prevent a bailout package that would, in effect, fund China. If Mr Khan can work out something favourable with the US, hed have better standing in the country and some leeway with the military.

Optics matter, after all. For the Pakistan military, a civilian head of government is a necessity to sustain the appearance that Pakistan is at least half a democracy. Finding international aid for dictatorships gets difficult. And this need of the Army may give the PM a degree of latitude.

Kashmir and other issues come only later in priority. In fact, to balance Mr Khan  especially if he is successful  the Army can keep up the terrorism pressure in Kashmir. This is a clever way to keep the newly mainstreamed elements happy. Its therefore just as well that foreign leaders arent being invited for Mr Khans inaugural. The ground is hardly ready for Mr Modi to visit.

His external exuberance exhibited in December 2015, when he surprised then Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif by turning up at his door uninvited in Lahore, had terrible consequences. It wasnt factored in by the Indians that the generals might disapprove.

The Modi gesture may have led the Pakistan Army to feel that civilians were running away with too much leeway. This sense may have been reinforced as the previous year Mr Sharif had, off his own bat, accepted the invitation to attend Mr Modis May 2014 swearing-in. The retribution was swift, and the relationship went into a downward spiral.

After the Pathankot and Uri attacks in 2016, New Delhi orchestrated a boycott of the 19th Saarc summit in Pakistan. With the exceptional success of the move, the Pakistan Army would always be left wondering whether invitees would show up if India was again a no-show, in case South Asian leaders were invited for Mr Khans inauguration.

There were thus good reasons for Mr Modi not to visit Pakistan now, seen from both Indias perspective and Pakistans. But there is also another very important consideration: Kashmir.

Kashmir isnt quiet. There is obviously a huge and continuing Pakistani role, going back decades, but of late we have botched it real bad, politically. Arguably, earlier, there had not been greater alienation at the popular level in the Valley. Staunch supporters of Kashmirs integration with India, along with autonomy, have been pushed on the backfoot. There cant be a worse time to talk Kashmir with Pakistan.

Mr Modi did the right thing in telephoning Mr Khan to congratulate him and express a desire for improvement in relations. Not doing so after an election would have been churlish. Last Thursday, Pakistan formally acknowledged the Indian leaders gesture and expressed a similar hope. Both sides kept it at the level of generalities. This is just as well for now. We can pick up the pieces once the situation in the Valley improves.

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Kashmir is facing a massive mobilisation on the question of the constitutional validity of Article 35A of the Constitution, under which its the state that decides who its permanent residents are, for only such persons may own property in the state, get government jobs or student scholarships.

The Valley has ground to a halt. Strike calls united separatists of all shades, key mainstream parties and major civil society organisations. A situation like this is an open invitation to troublemakers from across the border.

After an adjournment last year, on Monday the Supreme Court was to begin hearings on the Article 35A issue, brought before it by a RSS-linked NGO. The hearings have been put off for administrative reasons, as one member of the three- judge bench that will hear the petition is available only from August 27. The J&K government and the Centre have also urged the court to postpone hearing the matter, which arouses great emotion in the Valley and can lead to violence. Their plea was that panchayat polls are due and that the Centre has appointed an interlocutor for Kashmir to carry on dialogue with the people. Presumably these tasks will be hampered if the hearings on the validity of Article 35A begin and lead to a disturbed public atmosphere.

It can be argued that its the insufficient awareness of the situation by the Supreme Court that has somewhat helped drag out the matter. In the first instance, when the NGO brought its petition, the court should have straightaway gone into the question of its maintainability. This is because it is Article 35A which confers Indian citizenship on those deemed to be permanent residents of J&K. If this article is struck down, the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh will cease to be citizens of India. In such an event, their incorporation into Pakistan can only be a matter of days, if not hours. Instead of subjecting the petition questioning the validity of Article 35A to serious scrutiny on its maintainability, CJI Dipak Misra has indicated that a three-judge bench, which he leads, will decide whether the case should be sent to a Constitution Bench. This is like feeding the fire. The validity of Article 35A is being questioned because it was incorporated by the President in 1954 though a constitutional order based on the authority conferred on him to pass such an order, and not through an amendment of the Constitution by Parliament. Even the blind can see that Article 35A is a mere offshoot of Article 370, which was incorporated into the Constitution after a debate in the Constituent Assembly. This became necessary as Maharaja Hari Singh did not merge with India but only acceded to the Union on specified conditions, such as retention of autonomy.

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The tracking down of 9/11 mastermind Osama bin Laden to his Abottabad hideout was probably one of the great detective stories of the age, Most of the credit for this must go to Americas secretive intelligence-gathering outfit, the National Security Agency. The NSAs eavesdropping mission includes radio broadcasting, both from various organisations and individuals, the Internet, telephone calls and other intercepted forms of communication. Its secure communications mission covers military, diplomatic and all other sensitive, confidential or secret government communications.

The NSA is all hi-tech. It collects data from four geostationary satellites which track and monitor millions of conversations, after which the NSAs banks of high-speed supercomputers process all these messages for certain phrases and patterns of conversations to decide if the persons at either end were worthy of further interest. The numbers which these numbers frequently connected up with would then again attract attention. In this manner, linkages can be made. The NSA has installations in several US states and from them routinely intercepts electronic data from Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, Latin America and Asia.

According to the Washington Post, every day, collection systems at the National Security Agency intercept and store 1.7 billion e-mails, phone calls and other types of communications. The NSA sorts a fraction of those into 70 separate databases. Because of its listening task, NSA/CSS has been heavily involved in cryptanalytic research, continuing the work of predecessor agencies which had broken many Second World War codes and ciphers. The NSA and the CIA together comprise the greatest intelligence-gathering effort in the world. The human and financial resources deployed are quite extraordinary.

The overall US intelligence budget has been considered classified until recently. There have been numerous attempts to obtain general information about the budget, without much success. But there have also been accidental disclosures; for instance, Mary Margaret Graham, a former CIA official and deputy director of national intelligence for collection in 2005, said that the annual intelligence budget was $44 billion. The US is more determined than ever never to be caught unawares like 9/11.

It would be incorrect to compare the attack on the World Trade Centre with Pearl Harbour in 1941. 9/11 was the perfect out-of-the-blue attack on the United States. Pearl Harbour was not. Ten days before the Pearl Harbour attack, then US secretary of war Henry Stimson entered in his diary the following statement: Roosevelt brought up the event that we are likely to be attacked perhaps next Monday, for the Japanese are notorious for making an attack without warning, and the question was what we should do? The question was how we should manoeuvre them into the position of firing the first shot without allowing too much danger to ourselves.

Clearly, the US knew that an attack was coming. It may not be entirely fortuitous that the three aircraft-carriers assigned to the Pacific Fleet  USS Saratoga, USS Lexington and USS Enterprise  had been dispatched on missions that took them away from Pearl Harbour that fateful Sunday. Be that as may be, on December 4, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy changed its JN-25 code and thus denied US cryptographers the foreknowledge of where it was going to take place, possibly explaining why eight of the nine battleships assigned to the US Pacific Fleet were still in Pearl Harbour.

Ironically it was Henry Stimson, who as Herbert Hoovers secretary of state from 1929 to 1933, had in 1929 shut down the state departments cryptanalytic office, saying: Gentlemen dont read each others mail.

Gentlemen have for long been reading other peoples mail, from way back. Sometimes they have not been above putting things in other peoples mail as well, in order to mislead. Probably the most famous of them was Sir Francis Walsingham, the principal secretary to Queen Elizabeth I of England from December 20, 1573 until his death, who is popularly remembered as her spymaster. Walsingham is to Britains MI5 what John Sleeman of Thugee fame is to our Intelligence Bureau.

Walsingham instructed the jailor of the captive Mary, Queen of the Scots, and Elizabeths great rival, to open, read and pass to Mary unsealed any letters that she received, and to block any potential route for clandestine correspondence. In a successful attempt to entrap her, Walsingham arranged a single exception: a covert means for Marys letters to be smuggled in and out of Chartley in a beer keg. Mary was misled into thinking these secret letters were secure, while in reality they were deciphered and read by Walsinghams agents.

In July 1586, Anthony Babington wrote to Mary about an impending plot to free her and kill Elizabeth. Marys reply was clearly encouraging, and sanctioned Babingtons plans. Walsingham had Babington and his associates rounded up; 14 were executed in September 1586. In October, Mary was put on trial under the Act for the Surety of the Queens Person in front of 36 commissioners, including Walsingham.

During the presentation of evidence against her, Mary broke down and pointed accusingly at Walsingham, saying, all of this is the work of Monsieur de Walsingham for my destruction, to which he replied, God is my witness that as a private person I have done nothing unworthy of an honest man, and as secretary of state, nothing unbefitting my duty.

Little has changed since then. Those who are tasked with defending us, and our way of life, are still doing what befits their duty. Sometimes they breach the law, sometimes our privacy, but in the balance that is still a small price to pay for our national safety. You can sleep peacefully as long as your conversation is not peppered with words and phrases that catch the computers attention. The Google companys corporate slogan Do No Evil has a relevance to all of us here. As long as you are not doing anything wromg, you have little to worry. But if you are, Big Brother is watching, and listening.

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One of the men preparing the explosives is Younes Abouyaaqoub, 22, who drove a van through a crowd of people on the popular Las Ramblas boulevard in the heart of Barcelona on August 17, 2017, killing 13 people. (Photo: AFP)

Madrid: Chilling images published in the Spanish media on Monday show men in a terror cell preparing explosives ahead of last year's jihadist attacks in Barcelona and a nearby seaside resort that killed 16 people.

In one picture, two men pose for the camera as they make they make the explosives. In another, a plotter smiles and points the sky while wearing an explosives belt around his waist.

(Photo: AFP)

There is an even a picture of one man posing next to the next Eiffel Tower in Paris.

One of the men preparing the explosives is Younes Abouyaaqoub, 22, who drove a van through a crowd of people on the popular Las Ramblas boulevard in the heart of Barcelona on August 17, 2017, killing 13 people.

He then stabbed another man to make his getaway before being shot dead by police days later.

The Spanish newspaper La Razon, one of the media outlets which published the images, said they were recovered along with video files in the rubble of a house in Alcanar, a town some 200 kilometres (125 miles) from Barcelona, where the group made the bombs.

An explosion at the house on the eve of the attack killed two of the plotters and deprived the others of bombs, forcing them to change their plans.

A total of 16 people were killed in the Barcelona assault and a knife attack in the nearby resort of Cambrils. The ISIS claimed responsibility for the attacks.

La Razon also published transcripts of dialogue between the plotters, in which they make fun of their potential victims and brag about their upcoming attack.

"Allah has chosen us from among millions of people to make you cry blood," a man identified as Omar Hichamy is quoted as saying.

The six youths of Moroccan origin, aged 17 to 24, who carried out the attacks were all killed by police.

Moroccan imam Abdelbaki Es Satty, who is believed to have radicalised the others, was killed in the Alcanar explosion.
Dhaka: Journalists in Bangladesh on Tuesday gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest those involved in attacks on some of their colleagues while covering the unprecedented protests by the students over road safety, according to media reports.

At least seven photojournalists, including an Associated Press (AP) photographer, were injured in attacks with sharp weapons, sticks and iron rods by youths wearing helmets at Dhanmondi, Jigatala and Science Laboratory areas on Sunday, while covering the protests.

Thousands of students brought parts of the Bangladesh capital to a standstill after two teenagers were killed by a speeding bus on July 29. A large number of journalists and photojournalists also gathered in front of the Jatiya Press Club here this morning and formed a human chain in protest against the attacks, the Daily Star reported.

"Journalists gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government for arresting those who attacked some their colleagues during the ongoing student movement seeking safe roads. Otherwise, they will launch tougher programmes from August 11," President of Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Molla Jalal was quoted as saying while addressing protesting scribes at the Jatiya Press Club.

They demanded the government to identify and arrest those involved in attacks on journalists after analysing the video footage.

"I am urging the information minister and home minister to sit with the journalists and try to identify those who played a role in the attacks and ensure they are punished," BFUJ general secretary Shaban Mahmud was quoted as saying in the Daily Star.

A number of journalists also formed a human chain at the SAARC Fountain in Karwan Bazar area. It is alleged that students associated with the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) which is associated with the ruling Awami League and the Bangladesh Juba League (BJL) -- the ruling party's youth front, were involved in attacks on journalists, media reports said.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader has asked journalists to come up with clear evidence that the BCL was involved in the attacks on their colleagues.

"Tell me specifically who from Chhatra League were involved? Please give me a list," he told reporters during a press conference at the party chief's office at Dhanmondi on Monday. He refuted allegations that members of the ruling party's student wing were involved in the attacks on the journalists in the Dhanmondi area on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the police have arrested 11 people for the violence during the unprecedented protests by the students over road safety.

"Police have registered 27 cases and the number of arrests and cases would rise," Md Muntasirul Islam, a deputy commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police was quoted as saying by bdnews24.com.

Six people were detained over student-police clashes at Shahbagh on Monday.
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palikes (BBMP) special council meeting on Monday decided to ban all flexes, banners, buntings, illegal advertisement boards, wall posters and other materials used for outdoor advertising in the city for one year.

On August 1, the high court had ordered the removal of all illegal flexes and banners. Ruling party leader M Shivaraju said in the council, Civic officials have removed more than 21,000 flexes and banners across the city till Sunday, which is about 188 tonnes of material worth Rs 50 lakh.

The Palike had to collect a revenue of Rs 339 crore from these advertisements, but we have only collected only Rs 45 crore, he added.

The high court had directed the BBMP to frame a new advertising policy within the next date of hearing on August 8. But the council meeting decided to appeal to the high court for more time to discuss the policy before finalising it.

Addressing the council members, BBMP commissioner N Manjunath Prasad said, The BBMP will issue notices to those who have put up illegal banners from Monday. If they fail to remove the banners within 15 days, the Palike will file criminal cases against them with a fine of Rs 1 lakh and six-month imprisonment under the Karnataka Open Places (Prevention of Disfigurement) Act, 1981.

Till a new policy is drafted, action will be taken under the Karnataka Open Places (Prevention of Disfigurement) Act, 1981. In the past one year, the BBMP has not renewed the licence of any hoarding and has not received any revenue after 2016, he added.

Opposition leader Padmanabha Reddy welcomed the high court direction.
Brazil briefly closed then reopened its northern border to Venezuelans on Monday as it struggled to contain mass migration from the South American country saddled with a crippling political and economic crisis, police said.

A Supreme Court justice overturned a lower court judge's decision that had suspended for a few hours the entry of more Venezuelans until other immigrants from the country were transferred elsewhere in Brazil.

"It is not justified to take the easy path to 'close the doors' because of difficulties in hosting refugees," Supreme Court justice Rosa Weber said in her ruling issued shortly before midnight.

The border had remained open to Brazilians and other nationalities, as well as to Venezuelans seeking to return to their home country.

It's a main crossing point for tens of thousands of Venezuelan migrants, an influx that has increased dramatically over the past two years.

President Michel Temer was opposed in a "non-negotiable" way to the border closure, Human Rights Minister Gustavo Rocha was quoted as saying by state-run Agencia Brasil.

Roraima state's capital Boa Vista has hosted the largest number of Venezuelan immigrants in the country -- around 25,000 out of a total of 330,000 city dwellers.

An estimated 500 Venezuelans cross the land border into Brazil each day.

Roraima Governor Suely Campos had applauded the federal judge's ruling that temporarily shuttered the border.

"We have been asking the federal Supreme Court since May to close the border, as well as for financial assistance to minimize the impact on our public services," Campos said in a statement.

But Weber, the Supreme Court justice, said: "Although most of those who cross the border between Venezuela and Brazil do not fit into the legal definition of refugee or asylum.

"Closing the border between the two countries could impact the situation of individuals who can qualify for protections under international law."
In a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said after four year's of BJP rule, India looked like a "train driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver.

Addressing the Congress Parliamentary Party meeting here, Rahul said the people of the country were looking up to the Congress and its allies to help remove the Modi government and replace with one which will listens to them.

In a stinging attack on the BJP over corruption, Rahul said that Modi came to power over claims that he would wipe out corruption in the country and provide a very clean government.

The Rafale scam, involving over 1.3 lakh crore of public money and designed to bail out debt-ridden corporate cronies of Modiji is a symbol of the true 'sanskar' (character) of this government  'Raam naam japna, paraya maal apna' (pretend to be a saint, but being very greedy), Rahul said.

The Congress president said the crisis of governance  marked by corruption, economic failure, incompetence and spread of social divisiveness had peaked under the Modi government and asked Congress lawmakers to provide an alternative.

There is a rising tide of anger against the current ruling dispensation that calls upon all of us to work very hard to give the people of India the alternative they deserve  an alternative to the bogus promise of Modijis Achche Din, he said.

Rahul recalled how Modi used to say India was a slow passenger train for 70 years after Independence and how under his guidance the country would become a sleek and shining magical train destined for achche din (better days).

Four years of Modi rule later, sadly, India today looks more like a train that is being driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver, who does not care what happens to the passengers he is responsible for, Rahul said.

The people of India are demanding change. They will no longer be fooled by your magical train that is headed for a bad accident, the Congress president said.

Rahul spelt out his plan of cornering the Modi government on its failure to deliver on creating jobs, doubling farmers income, growth for businesses, returning black money stashed in Swiss banks, depositing Rs 15 lakh in every bank account, lowering petrol prices, ensuring the safety of women and justice for Dalits.
Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday expressed unhappiness over thin attendance in the Upper House on Monday when a crucial legislation to provide constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes was passed.

At the start of the day's proceedings, Naidu observed that 156 members were present when the Rajya Sabha passed the constitution amendment bill. "We just scraped through," he lamented.

The Rajya Sabha has a total strength of 245. Majority of the members, that is more than half, are required to be present when an amendment to the Constitution is passed. It can be passed only when two-thirds of the members are present and vote in favour. The bill could have fallen if the numbers were a little less.

"We were exactly a little above the mark, that's all. Otherwise, you can't get it approved also," he said.

These are "sad commentary" on the functioning of the Rajya Sabha if someone was to take note of the attendance, Naidu said. He also asked the members to be punctual and assemble in the House before the start of the day's proceedings.
Covenant College announces the third annual LAbri Lectures at Covenant College. They will take place on Saturday, Sept. 29, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. LAbri Lectures at Covenant College is an open time of honest questions and honest answers about the Christian faith.

In the 1960s and 70s, Covenant College hosted LAbri Conferences on campus, welcomed Francis Schaeffer to speak in chapel, and maintained a close tie with many members of the LAbri community. L'Abri is a French word that means "shelter," and L'Abri communities are study centers in Europe, Asia, and North and South America, where Christian and non-Christian individuals have the opportunity to seek answers to honest questions about God and the significance of human life.

The College reunited with LAbri in 2016 to form the inaugural LAbri Lectures event at Covenant College. Since then, the College community and friends of the College have benefited tremendously from the honest and challenging lecture series.

Running from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., the event will include three lectures followed by time for questions and discussion. Lunch will be provided at the event along with morning and afternoon tea, coffee, and refreshments.

The L'Abri Lectures will be delivered on the Covenant College campus, in Brock Hall, rooms 118 - 122.

Men and women of all ages are invited to attend the event, although no childcare will be provided.
Assyrians Commemorate Martyrs Day Amid Strife and Exodus From Middle East

The Arabic letter "n" (inside red circle), signifying "Nasrani" (Christian), on an Assyrian home in Mosul. (AINA) -- August 7 is Assyrian Martyrs Day. It is commemorated worldwide by Assyrians to remember their fallen, including the 3,000 who were killed by the Iraqi army in Iraq between August 7 and 11, 1933 in the town of Simmele (), North Iraq, and its surroundings. It was carried out by the Iraqi Army, led by General Bakir Sidqi, a Kurd, and Kurdish and Arab irregulars.

On August 7 Assyrians will commemorate Assyrians Martyrs Day world wide, but the situation for Assyrians in the Middle East is bleak, with an unstoppable exodus to the West.

Assyrian Organizations Ask Iraq to Recognize 1933 Massacre of Assyrians

A coalition of four Assyrian organizations from the Unites States, Canada and Europe has sent a letter to the Iraqi government asking for official recognition of the massacre of Assyrians by the Iraqi army in August, 1933. Called the Simmele massacre, it was conducted in the Assyrian town of Simmele and its surroundings by the Iraqi army and Kurdish and Arab irregulars, between August 7 and August 11 of 1933 (Read the full story here).

Your browser does not support the video tag. Interview with Simmele Survivor

The Turkish Genocide of Assyrians

Between 1915 and 1918 750,000 Assyrians (75%), 500,000 Greeks and 1.5 million Armenians were killed by Ottoman Turks and Kurds in a genocide that aimed at and nearly succeeded in destroying the Christian communities in the Ottoman Empire.

The ISIS Genocide

The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) captured the city of Mosul, Iraq on June 10. Almost immediately thereafter it began to drive Assyrians out of Mosul and destroy Christian and non-Sunni institutions.

200,000 fled from Baghdede (Qaraqosh), Bartella, Karamles and dozens of Assyrian villages and towns in the Nineveh Plain north of Mosul, most have not returned.

In Syria, ISIS attacked Assyrian villages, abducted and killed Assyrians, destroyed churches and Assyrian archaeological sites.
SALT LAKE CITY  Earlier this summer, Democratic Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren quietly held a fundraiser in an upscale Salt Lake City restaurant during what's been described as a presidential campaign-style swing through the West.

Already seen as a potential front-runner for the Democratic Party's 2020 presidential nomination even though she has yet to declare she's running, Warren has raised nearly $50,000 from Utah through the end of June.

It's just a red state. I don't think people are swayed that easily. I don't think Democrats coming in are going to get traction.  Utah GOP Chairman Rob Anderson

That total, from the Federal Election Commission, appears to include the proceeds from the June 22 fundraiser at Finca, a downtown restaurant that describes itself as offering Spanish-inspired fine dining.

House Minority Leader Brian King, D-Salt Lake City, who posed with Warren at the fundraiser after contributing $250, said her stop in reliably Republican Utah is a sure sign she's serious about a bid for the White House.

"She wants to raise her profile for that, wants to raise her credibility among Democrats, even in red states," King said. He said Warren made it clear her focus was "on advancing Democratic fortunes" in this year's midterm elections, not 2020.

When King attempted to encourage her to run for president, he said Warren told him, "I don't want to think about that until we do everything we can to get past this November election and get as many Democrats elected as we can."

A recent New York Times article about the 2020 race quoted Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski as saying Warren's message at the event was that Democrats need to come together and "show this year that change is what the people want."

Warren stopped in Utah on her way to Nevada, a key early voting state in the presidential primaries, where she rallied Democrats at their state convention in Reno as President Donald Trump did the same for the GOP in Las Vegas.

Utah, a state that hasn't voted for a Democrat for president since 1964, did show considerable support for Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, a Vermont senator who lost the party's nomination to Hillary Clinton.

Trump won the state in November 2016, but a Deseret News/KSL poll conducted shortly before that year's March presidential caucus votes found that Utahns preferred Sanders over the now president, 48 percent to 37 percent.

But Utah GOP Chairman Rob Anderson said he doesn't expect Warren's brief visit to have much impact in the state.

"It's way early for her to come out here and try to stir up support," Anderson said. "Utah is a red state. It's just a red state. I don't think people are swayed that easily. I don't think Democrats coming in are going to get traction."

He wasn't sure Utahns would see much of Trump between now and Election Day 2020, although the president did come to Salt Lake City last December to announce reductions in the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments.

University of Utah political science professor Matthew Burbank said he was surprised to hear that Warren held a fundraiser in Salt Lake City and agreed with King that was evidence she's likely to run.

"I don't think she's interested in winning the state realistically. I think what she is trying to do is build up a base of supporters," Burbank said. He said Utah's past backing of Sanders would be appealing to Warren.

Burbank said that unlike more liberal states like California, there isn't that much competition for Democratic donations in Utah, even though the state has a "fair amount of big money Democrats."

Warren seems to be well aware of the opportunity that presents, he said, just as previous presidential contenders have been.

"It's not the first thing you would think of if you were running the Warren campaign, 'Oh, we need to go to Utah to raise money,'" Burbank said, noting what Warren collects for her Senate re-election campaign could be used for a presidential run.

"Clearly," he said, "there are a group of people here who are in that position of being able to host a fundraiser and have good attendance and have people show up, checks in hand."
The Simmele Assyrian Massacre in Iraq: A Legacy of Trauma and British Neglect

The Suffering, by Assyrian artist Nahrin Malki. Stamp Technique on Canvas, 2016. ( Nahrin Malki) August 7th is a special date for Assyrians, a nation so obscured in our modern world that many people will still raise their eyebrows at their very mention. Nevertheless, Assyrians persisted as a distinct people after the fall of the empire, and so did the country of Assyria (or Ashur/Atour as Assyrians refer to it in our Assyrian-Aramaic language.

Batarshah, a village 15 miles northwest of Simmele. The craters are evidence of bombings from Iraqi Warplanes.

Assyrian levies being initiated by their British commanders.

August 8th: Iraqi army began executing all Assyrian males captured in Bekher mountains in northern Nineveh

August 8th: Mayor of Zakho began disarming Assyrians in town

August 9th: Shammar and Jabour tribes attacked 60 Assyrian villages south of Dohuk. The captured males given to Iraqi army who executed them.

August 10th: Kurds and Arabs looted Assyrian farms south of Dohuk.

August 11th: Assyrians in Zakho and Simmele were attacked by Iraqi army led by General Bakr Sidqi. One group of 300 were massacred sheltering in police station.

August 11th: Another 40 Assyrian villages attacked and 600 more killed mostly by Kurds.

August 16th: Iraqi army campaign to massacre Assyrians in north ended, but continued by Kurdish villagers and tribesmen.

August 18th: Iraqi Army held victory parade and given awarded by King Ghazi, the son of King Faisal, for massacring the Assyrians in north. General Sidqi promoted. The soldiers were greeted with flowers and rosewater, as well as a procession of Iraqi ministers and deputies who hailed their victory. They were also given free use of local cabarets, restaurants and buses.

This country became known by different names during the centuries following the fall of Nineveh, its last capital: the last king of the Babylonian Empire?--?Nabonidus?--?was an Assyrian from the north; Achaemenid Assyria was a protectorate called "Athura" during in the 6th-3rd Century BC; the Kingdom of Adiabene rose to prominence in these historic lands in the 1st Century; the Sassanids called the country "Asoristan" from the 2nd Century onward. Assyrians had indeed lost control of their lands politically and militarily, but with that also came a loss of control over its written history?--?something which gradually became eroded and reclassified by ascending political powers. Fast forward to the present day, it is an extraordinary feat that these ancient people still persist in their ancestral lands after waves of tremendous violence by invading forces of Mongols, Arabs, Kurds, Turks, and Persians. This violence reached its catastrophic peak during the last 150 years, first with the massacres perpetrated by Kurdish warlord Bedr Khan Bey in mid-19th C Hakkari, Turkey; the Assyrian Genocide (or Seyfo) at the hands of the Ottomans during World War 1, and then the Simmele (????) Massacre in 1933, Iraq.This last calamity befell a people already reeling after periods of extreme violence targeting them, and symbolised the end of any favourable political settlement for Assyrians in their homeland. This closure was given to Assyrians by an assortment of Iraqi Army and Kurdish irregulars, as well as the Assyrians former employer, the British, who supplied the Iraqi Army with further ammunition and bombs to strike at the Assyrians. The role of the British here was thus: during the years of mandated Iraq, they had drafted local men derived from Arab, Kurdish and Assyrian background and tasked them with a wide array of tasks from fighting and guarding points of interest to acting as a bridge to local communities. Assyrians quickly became the overwhelming majority of those drafted, perhaps because of their perceived skills and capabilities, perhaps because of their Christian background?--?a factor which created tension and set them apart from their neighbours?--?or more than likely a combination of all of these things.The British were aware of this tension and amplified it by bringing Assyrians closer to their operations thereby making them feel privileged, all the while indirectly creating further hatred and resentment for them from Iraq's Arabs and Kurds. The horrors which engulfed the Assyrian people after the British mandate ended in 1932 was entirely foreseeable too?--?the authorities navigating Iraq's independence, including the famously anti-Assyrian general, Badr Sidqi, did not hide their intentions and bloodlust (for more details on this, please refer to "Reforging a Forgotten History" by Sargon Donabed)The Patriarch of the Church of the East, Mar Eshai Shimun, repeatedly wrote to the relevant authorities including the League of Nations, and requested settlement in other countries given the growing tension among Iraqi authorities and the Assyrians. On October 23rd 1931, he wrote to the mandate commission in Mosul warning "that if the Assyrians remained in Iraq, we shall be exterminated" whilst requesting that the French government accept Assyrians into Syria. This letter included the signatures of all of the major maliks and chiefs. Given the lacklustre response and the imminent independence of the Iraqi state, all Assyrian levy officers signed a document voluntarily resigning their positions with effect from July 1st 1932. The British were dealt a serious blow with this act. Despite the growing perception of Assyrians being an unruly group, or a disease, as was the view of future Iraqi Prime Minister, Ali Rashid Gaylani, the Assyrians were the only group in the new Iraq who had not yet taken up arms against the government, unlike Kurds and Arabs. Their agitation for reassurances however was perceived as riling up Kurds in the north and even the Shia Arabs in the south. Iraqi deputies proceeded to make speeches on June 29th 1933 inciting hatred towards Assyrians?--?these were published in al-Istiqlal newspaper and many others. Moving across the border into Syria became ever more appealing. In late July, hundreds of Assyrians attempted to cross into Syria but were disarmed and detained by the authorities there. The French had promised partial resettlement but reneged and turned many away after a League of Nations decree ruling the settlement unlawful. As many as 5,000 Iraqi soldiers including aircraft were deployed to attack 800 Assyrians returning through Fayshkhabour?--?a neglected, poverty-stricken Assyrian town that persists today with no clean running water. This confrontation ended with relatively few casualties but enraged the Iraqis who labelled the French's actions in allowing Assyrians to return armed as treacherous, and who perceived the "Assyrian threat" as a growing, existential one harming the legitimacy of a fledgling state. Throughout August alone, over 200 anti-Assyrian articles were published in the press circulating lies and smears against the Assyrian people, riling up the population to take it upon themselves to contribute to the coming carnage.Beginning on August 6th, rumours were circulating in Iraq that Assyrians had massacred Iraqi Army soldiers, blown up bridges and poisoned water supplies. The Iraqi government encouraged these unfounded rumours. Assyrians were forcefully disarmed in stages after initially resisting any demand for them to do so. From an Assyrian perspective, putting down weapons whilst being surrounded by Kurds, Arabs and other neighbours who had routinely massacred them was never a serious consideration. Yet when faced with these sheer number of arms brought to bear against them, many eventually saw disarmament as the only way out. The British were keeping an eye on developments and requested that the newly independent Iraqi government reassign Sidqi away from the northern territories. Reassurances were made that this would be done by Iraqi authorities, but it never happened. On August 7th, Sidqi led his army north to begin what now represents Iraq's first military action as a sovereign nation: the massacre of Assyrian men, women and children. An eyewitness account of this month-long massacre as relayed by a British intelligence officer contended: There was a hell on earth which explored the very depths of human depravity and Assyrians were once again the object of this inspection. A brief timeline:The British were not only fully cognisant of these unfolding horrors, but actively aided the Iraqi Army in its request for more weaponry and bombs specifically to deal with their self-defined Assyrian problem. They did this to honour Clause 5 of the Anglo-Iraqi Treaty signed in 1930, and so provided the Iraqi Army with over 100 bombs to use against its former drafted soldiers who had served them faithfully through the decades. Iraqi warplanes were effectively using British bombs to indiscriminately murder Assyrian villagers who had depended on the help and reassurances of the country's former authorities in exchange for their service. This failure to answer The Assyrian Question continued into World War 2, where Assyrians were yet again drafted in as many as six companies of fighting men. These Assyrians were sometimes referred to "the smallest ally" in the fight against the axis powers Iraq had decided to join. Assyrians joined the paratroopers and fought to defend British bases like RAF Habbaniya, a key place in the memory of many Assyrians who had practically grown up there. Britain sought to maintain the important flow of petroleum from Iraq to support the allied war effort and deployed its own forces after Iraq dispatched units to stem this flow of fuel-- this conflict became known as the short-lived Anglo-Iraqi War of May 1941 and resulted in British victory and a temporary reestablishment of British imperial authority. Yet again however, Assyrians were not compensated or awarded any political settlement for their sacrifices. This pattern is common with Britain and other imperial powers throughout the centuries, but in this modern day, recognition and reparation must be made the norm otherwise our alleged progress, morally and otherwise, is brought into question. The illusion of converging interests was utilised in order to gain the service of Assyrians once again to further interests in which we had no wider concern. This was betrayal in the starkest of terms. The British lack of recognition extends to tragedies such as the Anfal Campaign waged by Saddam in the 1980's, where all references in official UK government statements exclusively offer condolences to Kurds, despite the fact that hundreds of Assyrian villages were targeted and many destroyed throughout that barbaric campaign. The tradition of writing Assyrians out of history continues with even those who claim a benevolent and elevated position in the world's moral order. This is erasure not only of our present suffering, of which Britain has offered nothing to address, but of past trauma which persists in the minds and hearts of all affected survivors who find themselves yearning for acknowledgement and justice. The world watched on apathetically when ISIS began its assault on the remaining Assyrians in the Nineveh Plain, Iraq on August 6th?--?an event almost deliberately synchronised with the commemoration of Assyrian Martyrs Day today. New lives were destroyed as they were forced to repeat the steps of their predecessors and flee from their homes in a fight for survival in this new chapter of genocide and neglect. Iraq has done nothing to acknowledge and recompense the surviving families of Simmele, nor is it helping Assyrians trying to rebuild their lives in the political battleground of Nineveh Province. So today as Assyrians mourn and remember the 6,000 victims of Simmele and countless other Assyrians who sacrificed everything and were killed for who they are, many others will inevitably shrug or even celebrate. The point of pieces like this is an appeal to reestablish humanity and truth?--?without which, Assyrians will constantly be stuck in cycles defined by trauma and erasure, whilst the perpetrators or those who mimic their violent tendencies will continue to ascend, free from rebukes of conscience, into new cycles of violence uninformed by the consequences of crimes which have not been legally, morally and historically addressed. In this dynamic, all empathy is lost. Moving beyond acknowledgement from other peoples' and governments however, Assyrians must ask themselves not only how we can appropriately remember and honour those who we have lost, but how can we heal?
SALT LAKE CITY  How can Utah become more compassionate to those whose drug addictions lead to arrests?

A panel that advises lawmakers on criminal justice issues in Utah considered the question Monday as it debated whether tweaks are needed to a 2015 series of reforms reducing penalties in drug cases.

One possible, empathetic change: directing prosecutors to withhold immediate criminal charges and drop the case entirely if offenders complete a treatment program, according to Rep. Paul Ray, a member of the Criminal Code Evaluation Task Force.

Hypothetically, the Clearfield Republican said, "that charge is never even filed, it just goes away."

"That is something we could make happen," responded Will Carlson, a Salt Lake County deputy district attorney. He said Utah has experience with moving away from "shame-based prosecution" and shifting to a therapeutic approach.

For example, Salt Lake County authorities arrested and charged men in the 1990s for having sex with each other in parks, but the prosecutions did not curb repeat offenses, Carlson said. So the county started a program allowing the men to enter a guilty plea but avoid jail time if they fulfilled two requirements: attending a course on healthy ways to express yourself and getting tested for sexually transmitted infections.

When it comes to drug cases, Carlson said, "I do agree that if prosecutors approach this as a public health issue  it can have a positive impact."

Utah Sentencing Commission Director Marshall Thompson told the panel that he was struck by a sentiment from Brian Besser, Utah's Drug Enforcement Administration agent in charge, at an opioid conference in Utah over the weekend: that shame is perhaps the biggest obstacle stopping those with addictions from getting treatment in Utah.

Thompson said he believes Utah "did make a big step in that regard in 2015" when it reduced penalties for many drug crimes, including possession  now a misdemeanor on the first two offenses and a felony on the third. He said it is easier for offenders to admit to their families they were picked up on a misdemeanor charge and not a felony.

"I don't know what, beyond that, criminal sentencing could do," Thompson said. "Maybe it's just a cultural shift we all need to focus on."

Kim Cordova, executive director of Utah's Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice, agreed. She said discussions with judges, treatment providers and public health officers have shown her that there "has to be a switch. We need to work and partner better with law enforcement agencies so they are educated and understand what services are out there," instead of believing jail and prison are always the answer.

Since the reforms took effect, Utah's drug courts, which help connect offenders to treatment, have had a 20 percent increase in admissions, Thompson said. But bringing substance abuse-treatment programs to rural areas remains a challenge.

Another issue, added Weber County prosecutor Dee Smith, is that some judges feel pressure to follow the reduced sentencing guidelines exactly and not to use their discretion to impose heftier terms if they see fit.

Also at the meeting, panel members touched on possibly revising the law to take better aim at those turning a profit from the drugs, and to force better oversight of money designated for treatment.

The panel reconvenes in September.
Robert Redford Announces Retirement From Acting

Veteran Hollywood star Robert Redford has announced his retirement from acting saying thats enough. The popular star revealed that 'The Old Man & The Gun' would be his last film. The 81-year-old star has had an illustrious and varied career as an actor, producer and director and said he is making good on his 2016 promise about hanging his boots as an actor.





The Oscar-winner said the story of 'Old Man' further strengthened his desire to retire. "Never say never, but I pretty well concluded that this would be it for me in terms of acting, and (I'll) move towards retirement after this 'cause I've been doing it since I was 21. I thought, well, that's enough. And why not go out with something that's very upbeat and positive?" Redford said.





Redford plays Forrest Tucker, the real-life career criminal in love with his self-appointed job of robbing banks and breaking out of prison in the David Lowery-directed film. Robert then added, "To me, that was a wonderful character to play at this point in my life. The thing that really got me about him - which I hope the film shows - is he robbed 17 banks and he got caught 17 times and went to prison 17 times. But he also escaped 17 times. So it made me wonder: I wonder if he was not averse to getting caught so that he could enjoy the real thrill of his life, which is to escape?





However, it is still not confirmed whether he is also retiring from directing. "We'll see about that," he said when asked about committing to future directing projects. Moreover, Redford won the best director Oscar for his 1980 film 'Ordinary People'. He has directed eight other films besides founding the Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival. His most notable films as an actor include 'The Sting', 'Barefoot in the Park', 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid', 'The Way We Were', 'All the President's Men' and 'All Is Lost'.





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Source: amp.businessinsider.com
The Kenyan regulators report into improving competition in Kenya has had its findings savaged by Bob Collymore, CEO of the markets most dominant operator Safaricom.

In a speech to a National Assembly Committee focused on Kenyas IT sector, Collymore claimed that the Communications Authority of Kenyas proposals would punish Safaricom subscribers by removing the incentive for competitors to invest more in their networks, and thereby curbing innovation.

The report was commissioned in 2016 and has been put together by UK analyst firm Analysys Mason. It is aimed at finding recommendations for improving competition in Kenyas mobile money and communications markets  both of which are largely dominated by Safaricom.

Its proposals include limiting Safaricoms offers and promotions, for example by preventing the operator from rewarding its customers for consuming data. The report also recommends that any new tariffs or permanent offers that Safaricom wishes to introduce should be submitted for review five days prior to launch so the regulator can ascertain whether a reasonably competent competitor would be able to match them.

Collymore described the proposals as effective price controls and said that they would raise the applicable rates of Safaricom services, making our services more expensive and forcing them to migrate to competitors services on cost consideration rather than on total value proposition.

The report has been under review for some time, and many of its recommendations have already been implemented. Safaricom must now charge equal rates for calls to customers on its network and rival networks, as well as allowing mobile money interoperability and national roaming.

It has faced several revisions, having made some controversial recommendations such as that Safaricom should spin off its mobile money unit into a business separate from its mobile operations. However, this proposal was struck from the finalised report.
Price: NA;

Powertrain: 2.0-litre, Gasoline direct injection, 202 bhp, 375 Nm, Front-wheel drive, Six-speed automatic;

Fuel economy: 8.9kmpl (obtained);

Pros: Looks brilliant, Sophisticated interiors, Spacious and comfortable, Loaded with features, Great ride comfort, Easy to drive;

Cons: Not the most engaging to drive, Heavy on fuel consumption, Slightly slow to overtake;

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Kia Motors announcement of its India launch was met with a whole lot of enthusiasm. Hyundais sister brand has been a popular choice in international markets, and buoyed by Hyundais success, has a very elaborate plan for India. It had the biggest show floor among all brands at the 2018 Auto Expo, and suitably, when I took the 2018 Kia Optima out for a spin around Delhi, I was stopped multiple times by eager car enthusiasts asking about the brand, the car itself, and even how to get dealerships for Kia Motors.

This itself is a clear sign of the brands intent, and how they aim to establish themselves in the Indian market once the SP Concept compact SUV rolls out of its Anantapur plant in production guise. The bigger sign, meanwhile, is the car itself and what it represents for the brand. The Kia Optima will possibly not be a part of the companys portfolio when it rolls its first cars out on to the road, but going by what it has on offer, we certainly hope that it does make it to India some time round.

Design and aesthetics

There is no other way to put it - the 2018 Kia Optima is one gorgeous set of wheels. The nose is sharp and flat, with the uniquely shaped, chrome-studded grill easily setting it apart from Hyundais Fluidic design language. The glass cabin is gently sloped, and is swept back in similar stance as the Jaguar XJ. To accentuate this sloping line, there is a chrome strip that runs along the upper trim of the windows - from the edge of the bonnet to the tip of the boot lid.

The panoramic glass roof is tinted and insulated to prevent greenhouse effect inside the car, should you choose to retract the fabric sheath and have only the glass expanse above your head. Then there are the alloys - the 18-inch five twin-spoke wheels that fit the arches perfectly, and the chrome strip running along the cars wheelbase further add definition to its design. The spillover LED tail lamps and the overall design of the cars rear end does look similar to a Hyundai (in particular, the 2018 Hyundai Sonata that is not sold in India right now). That said, it is still classy, and in the muted shade of titanium that we got the Optima in, makes for one classy piece of car design.

On the inside, the colour scheme is divided into two halves - the upper half with light off-white fabric and the lower half, dashboard and seats with black leather. The dashboard has a sharp texture, and is divided by the horizontal axis line. While the dash is not adorned with leather, the material used here is high quality, textured plastic that feels nice. The central column includes a seven-inch touchscreen above the dual-air conditioning vents, the very BMW-like audio controls and shortcut tabs, and the dual-zone air conditioning control module. Between the drivers seats, the gear shifter is shaped similar to Audis. The input ports and the power socket are concealed by the hydraulically-retractable plastic cover, and a second sliding tambour door covers the two generously-sized cup holders. The leather armrest looks and feels premium, as do the overall quality of buttons, and all tiny elements inside the car. The seats themselves are well-bolstered and fairly comfortable, and the black leather inside makes the interiors look suave.

All of this combined makes the 2018 Kia Optima SX quite the looker, and it turns heads in its own way. It is not an iconic design, but one that has seamless flow of continuity and a beautiful overall composure, offsetting its impressive equipment package.

Technology and electronics

When it comes to the infotainment package, the Kia Optima has just about enough to provide you all the basics that you would need from your in-car system. The top-of-the-line unit in our car is a part of Kias optional package, using an 8-inch infotainment display with integrated navigation, FM radio, multiple input ports and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Things work fairly smoothly, although the interface itself is not too intuitive.

You use a combination of physical buttons placed below the air conditioning vents to switch between different windows of the screen, and even though the buttons are placed ergonomically and provide a satisfyingly clicky feedback, there is a bit of a disconnect in not being able to simply tap on a home screen on the touch-enabled display to switch between screens. The screen is also placed a bit far away from the drivers mean position of sitting, which makes you use the buttons more often than not. The interface itself is a bit dull in terms of its colour scheme, and while it is likely that Kias Indian cars will feature the same infotainment unit, the company will do well to tweak the overall interface a bit to make it more engaging on overall terms.

The Kia Optima in India does not come with the radar-based driver assistance units that is available in North America, and that is also a possible indicator of the fact that these advanced systems will probably not feature in Kias Indian cars, even when they begin rolling out the more expensive models. In terms of other electronics, though, the Kia Optima aces the charts. The instrument cluster is semi-digital, with a highly useful central multi-information display that is similar to what youd see in Hyundais cars. The backlight on the semi-analogue dials and digits are controllable, thereby giving you the freedom to choose the intensity of light in the dials.

The front seats are power adjustable, giving a wide range of control over your seating position. You also get adjustable lumbar setting for the driver, along with seat heating and cooling for the front two seats, a heated leather steering wheel, cruise control, speed limiter, two-zone automatic climate control, a clean air filter, memory seat settings, electronic parking brake with auto-hold, adaptive parking sensors with a dynamic rear parking camera, auto-dimming mirrors, two AC vents for the rear passengers, and a panoramic glass roof with electronically-operable panoramic roof sheath and sunroof. All the AC vents also get their own fan intensity control, and there are integrated reading light-and-coat hanger modules to the rear, hence making it a complete executive sedan package.

It is this list of features that makes the Kia Optima such a wonderful car to be in. The equipment list is filled to the brim, giving its owners a complete suite of options. Whats important to note here is that this is the ideal show of what Kia as a brand is capable of achieving. From premium interior materials, to good quality of fit and finish, apt ergonomics and an excellent set of features, the 2018 Kia Optima is a great example for the brand to show what they are capable of, to the Indian audience.

Drive and ride quality

The Kia Optima is a long car, measuring almost 4.9 metres in length. Add to that its 2.2 tonne body weight, and this makes for a car that has substantial footprint on road. The long wheelbase format of the Optima gives plenty of space inside - even with the seat pushed substantially back for my 511 frame, there was always ample knee and feet room for the rear passenger. That said, you do feel the heft and length of the car at times, particularly in the congested, narrow Delhi lanes. More often than not, the parking sensors would alert you sharply owing to being too near an obstacle.

That said, handling and manoeuvering the Kia Optima is a fairly easy task. The steering wheel is light and easy to turn, and still fairly precise. It does not provide the best amount of feedback, which will be a deterrent if you are an enthusiastic driver and like engaging steering wheel feedback. Nevertheless, it is a breeze to drive in the city, with the six-speed automatic transmission doing its duty flawlessly. The Optima does have the tendency to hold on to the revs a bit too much, which makes it slightly sluggish from the start. Even in sport drive mode, the Optima is not a particularly eager car to lunge forward, and instead flows along smoothly on smooth pitch with speed building up steadily. While it really works well in the city and even when you are cruising along on highways at triple-digit speeds, it can be a bit of a bother to make overtakes.

Fortunately, the 2018 Kia Optima comes with paddle shifters, which allows you to switch the gearbox to manual control. This makes the car noticeably faster, of course, although its heft still does not make it feel uber-fast. The 2.0-litre direct injection gasoline engine produces 202 bhp and an impressive 375 Nm torque, and while this amount of power and torque means the car does not feel slow, there is a surprising sluggish nature to it. The Optima also consumes a fair amount of fuel - the consumption figures varied between 6.1 kmpl in peak city traffic, 12.2 kmpl in open roads and registering average of 8.9 kmpl.

In terms of ride quality, the 2018 Kia Optima is an excellent performer. The suspension is a bit on the softer side, which makes city ride quality absolutely sublime. It also holds its ground well in well-laid out highways, so there is no trace of the floatiness that soft suspensions may induce. Add to that great thigh and back support in the rear seat, and the Optima ensures that you remain comfortable throughout your journey.

The way forward

Unfortunately, the 2018 Kia Optima only serves as an indicator for the brands potential right now. When Kia launches its first cars in 2019, the focus is solely going to be on mainstream options like compact SUVs and premium hatchbacks. Cars like the Optima will probably feature in India too, but at a later date.

And yet, we cannot help but be super excited about the potential that the Kia Optima represents. If Kia manages to bring at least half the goodness of quality, assurance, refinement and opulence with its cars in India, the brand stands a chance of being a winner in the long run. After our privileged pre-launch test drive of the Kia Optima over about 500 kilometres and four days, weve come back really impressed, and even more excited about it.
Treating all over-the-ground cables as unauthorized, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has decided to cut off all the Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) of the telecom and internet service providers in Begaluru. the service providers have now asked the authority for relief claiming that they had obtained permissions and had originally laid the fibre cables underground but were constrained to lay them overhead with the tacit permission of BBMP.

Read the complete press release below

BBMPs (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike) decision and drive to cut-off Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) of the telecom and internet service providers is leading to huge outages and inconvenience to the citizens in densely populated areas across the city. BBMP is treating all over-the-ground cables as unauthorized, though the industry had obtained permissions and had originally laid them underground. However, the service providers were constrained to lay them overhead with the permission of BBMP as and when the same were unintentionally cut/removed during various civil works carried out by BBMP, BESCOM, BWSSB etc. The disconnection of the cable by BBMP is a huge blow to the Digital Bengaluru plan, which will severely impact essential services including Point of sale purchase applications at retail outlets and various Government services in Bengaluru. It will also result in a complete communication black-out threatening emergency situations if calls cant be connected and data connectivity is lost. This action will not only jeopardise the operations of companies/industries at Indias Silicon Valley, but will also have a huge impact on consumers and citizens.

BBMP must stop this retrograde and regressive fibre cutting drive immediately, as it is damaging operations of businesses and individual customers. At present, there is no comprehensive policy in Bengaluru which can ensure smooth provisioning of telecom infrastructure. Hence, Karnataka Government should formulate a comprehensive State tower policy that is aligned with Right of Way rules dated November 2016 issued by the Government of India to facilitate smooth deployment of telecom infrastructure across the city.

In order to streamline the issue, the telecom industry is ready to help and Municipal body to provide and discuss the best practices being followed in other states regarding RoW rules, 2016.

The Right of Way rules, 2016 issued by the central government for provisioning of the underground/over the ground telecom infrastructure has enabling features such as no restriction on location of telecom towers, single window clearance mechanism, defined time-period for approvals, appointment of Nodal officers, nominal administrative fees and deemed approval etc. extensively supporting the Digital India mission.

Speaking on the massive crisis that is brewing, which would bring the city to a virtual standstill, Rajan S Mathews, Director General, COAI stated, Such fibre cutting activities will hurt businesses, citizens and Government services in the Silicon Valley of India immensely. In the consumers interest, industry is seeking an early appointment with the relevant authorities to discuss, deliberate and arrive at a mutually agreeable solution, as soon as possible, and seek stoppage of any form of coercive measures to force a solution.

The TSPs are keen and willing to fully co-operate with the concerned authorities and government departments/agencies to regularise the cable laying process. The industry is open to dialogue and resolution immediately, he further added.

Mr. T.R. Dua, Director General, Tower & Infrastructure Providers Association (TAIPA) commented, Before taking any suo-moto coercive action, BBMP should have called industry for a bilateral discussion to resolve the subject matter of concerns. This impulsive action will impact the overall internet connectivity and businesses especially IT firms in Bangalore. In 2012, BBMP in an affidavit filed before the Honble High Court of Karnataka clearly stated not to cut or claim any rent till such time appropriate rules/bye-laws/regulations are made. Since then, there are no rules/ by-laws/ regulations notified by the BBMP. In order to streamline the issue, first step for the state of Karnataka is to align its draft policy with the Right of Way rules issued in November 2016 issued by the Department of Telecommunication to ensure deployment of critical telecom tower infrastructure with ease and lawfully. Once notified, the focus should come on implementation of the policy downline so that they are no such Suo-moto coercive actions are taken. The retrograde and arbitrary action destroys all the serious efforts that industry has been taking to turn the vision of Digital India, Smart City and cashless economy into a reality.

Mr. Rajesh Chharia, President, Internet Service Providers Association of India (ISPAI) also in support of the concerns added, BBMP should come with an OH (Over Head) policy as major developmental work is going on in the City. All cities, Nationally and Internationally, have OH cables.

The telecom industry has made immense investments in setting-up infrastructure in the Karnataka circle to provide fast connectivity to the citizens, as well as to the IT industry. Over 1,30,200 Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) have been installed in Karnataka state to support telephone, mobile and internet communications. This alone equals INR 13,000 crores in network investments. The sector also generates approx. INR 6,000 crores per annum in revenue in Karnataka alone, from which it contributes over approx. INR 1,600 crores to the State exchequer by way of levies and taxes. Such coercive actions from BBMP are expected to bring the entire city to a virtual halt and cause immense setback to its robust digital economy, while bringing no benefit to the BBMP government.
We have been hearing about Apples plans to open retail stores in the country since a while now, 2015 to be exact. However, the Cupertino-based tech company has been facing regulatory hurdles because of the Indian Governments insistence on local manufacturing and raw material sourcing. Now, a new report by Bloomberg Quint claims that Apple will be setting up official stores in India next year and that New Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai will be the first three cities to get the said official retails stores from Apple.

Apple hopes to start opening stores in India next year and eventually set up three in New Delhi, Bengaluru (formerly known as Bangalore), and Mumbai, according to the people familiar with the companys plans, Bloombergs Mark Gurman reports. The report also says that as part of its sales strategy revamp in India, Apple will be focussing on year-round deals and improving the Apple Maps experience in the country. Instead of officially lowering its prices, Apple is in talks with retailers and banks to offer holiday deals all year round, according to people familiar with the plans, says the report.

This could mean better deals in the online and offline space on Apples premium flagships like the iPhone X, iPhone 8 and more in the smartphone category, and the MacBook Pro in the laptop category. Evidence of this was seen recently when Apple held a sale in the country and offered zero down payments and low-cost EMI options on credit cards, at all offline Apple authorised resellers. These payment schemes were available on credit card from American Express, Axis Bank, Bank of Baroda, Citi, HDFC Bank, HSBC Bank, ICICI Bank, IndusInd Bank, J&K Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, RBL Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, State Bank of India, Union Bank of India and YES Bank.

The Bloomberg report also goes on to say the Apple is looking to improve the Apple Maps experience in India by 2020. According to the report, The 2020 revamp is supposed to fix Maps failings, say the people familiar with Apples plans, but so far, the Maps development office the company set up in Hyderabad in 2016 has mostly been used for editing map data in other parts of the world.

It was recently reported that Apple sold less than a million iPhones in the first half of 2018 in India. A research director from Counterpoint Research claimed that even if Apple registers a big boost in the traditionally strong second half, Apple will still fall short of even matching last year's numbers.
Google has officially bestowed the name Android 9 Pie to the latest version of its operating system. The announcement was made by Google on Monday, where Sameer Samat VP of Product Management, Android & Google Play, announced the name for Android P through a official blogpost. The latest release of Android is here! And it comes with a heaping helping of artificial intelligence baked in to make your phone smarter, simpler and more tailored to you. Today were officially introducing Android 9 Pie, Samat said in the blogspost. Google has repeated last years practice of announcing the final build for its OS months before launching its next generation of Pixel flagship smartphones.

Android P availability

Starting today, those with any of the previous Pixel devices - Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL, will be able to update their phones to Android Pie, which is the final build of the OS. Those with Pixel devices should lookout for an over-the air Android Pie update on their phones. This can be done by heading over to the Settings of your Pixel device and checking for software updates in the System Update setting. The Android Pie 9.0 update is about 1GB in size. Users can also get the factory images for their Pixel device here, or OTA images here.

For now, only Pixel devices are eligible for the Android Pie 9.0 update and other smartphones that were onboard the Android P beta this time will be receiving the final build of the OS in the fall; no exact date announced. If you recall, Google, for the first time, had made the Android P beta available to select smartphones from Sony Mobile, Xiaomi, HMD Global, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus and Essential. So devices like the OnePlus 6, Oppo R15 Pro, Nokia 7 Plus, Sony Xperia XZ2, Xiaomi Mi Mix 2S and Vivo X21 will be amongst the first phones to get Android Pie in the fall. Apparently, the Essential phone, which was also on the Android P beta is already receiving Android Pie. "Were proud to bring Android 9 Pie to Essential Phone the same day its released! Check your phone now for the update," Essential tweeted out from its official twitter handle.

We're also working with a number of other partners to launch or upgrade devices to Android 9 this year, Google announced in its blogpost. Those with Android One smartphones - like the Xiaomi Mi A1, Mi A2, all the Nokia phones, and more - should also expect the Android Pie update in the fall.

Android Pie features

Now that you know the official name for Android P, lets tell you more about what to expect from the new OS. We heard from Google at I/O 2018 that Android P is centered around AI. Google is one of the foremost entities in the AI research space and Android Pie comes with machine learning processes baked into its very core. This will be visible in multiple forms, including a new 'Adaptive Battery' feature which was created in collaboration with the Alphabet-owned AI subsidiary DeepMind. Lets take a deeper look into what Android Pie promises -

Adaptive Battery

This feature on Android Pie is designed to predict app usage patterns and accordingly optimise the battery life of your Android device. With the Adaptive Battery feature, battery life will only be spent on apps and services the user is most likely to use. Google says that they have seen a 30 percent reduction in CPU app wakeups during testing, owing to this new feature.

Adaptive Brightness

If machine learning can adapt battery life, it can also adapt brightness. The 'Adaptive Brightness' feature on Android Pie reduces the number of times a user has to manually adjust display brightness by implementing AI to understand the users preferences.

App Actions

In the spirit of predicting usage patterns, Google has also introduced a feature called App Actions to Android Pie. This will pre-empt what a user does with an app before he/she actually does it. For instance, if you connect headphones to the phone, Predictive Actions will automatically start playing the last song you were listening to on your phone.

Slices

Android P will also bring a new feature called Slices. However, this feature will only rollout to Android Pie in the fall. We are guessing this will happen when Google makes Android Pie more openly available to the devices that were enrolled in its Beta programme. Later this fall, well also roll out Slices (pie...slices...get it?!) which shows relevant information from your favorite apps when you need it, Google wrote in its blogpost.

The Slices feature will display slices of an app within Google Search. For instance, if you Google search for Uber, you will get a Slice of the application from your phone within the search and will also be able to book cabs directly from the Slice. Another example of how Slices would work on Android Pie is when you search for a particular city, say for instance Goa, you will see a Slice from Google Photos if you previously visited the city and clicked some pictures there.

Gesture Navigation and Notch support

With Android Pie, Google is officially embracing the notch, which is also supposed to show up on the Pixel 3 series of smartphones that the company plans to launch later this year.

Android Pie will allow for new ways to navigate phones that focus on screen real estate. There will now be a single clean home button that will allow users to navigate the new OS. But whats great is that Android users, apart from those who use Pixel phones, will be able to choose their preferred navigation method and enable or disable Android Pies gesture navigation. On Pixel smartphones, Google will strictly only implement gesture navigation. Some things remain the same and users will be able to tap to go back to home, and hold down the home button to bring up the Google Assistant.

Whats changed is that swiping up on the home button will now bring up the multitasking menu, with five predictive apps displayed at the bottom of the screen. Swiping up twice will bring up the entire app list and the same will work on any screen. A quick scrub at the bottom of the display will let users scroll through apps. Volume controls have also been re-imagined to help users separate ringer volume from media volume. A new, vertical volume control will be located on the display next to the hardware buttons and will help distinguish the phones sound from that of the media being played on it. In addition, a new rotation button will now appear on the navbar to change screen orientation in a much easier fashion.

Digital Wellbeing

Perhaps a trend Google kicked off in the tech industry was the strong focus on Digital Wellbeing, first introduced by Google during its Android P announcements at I/O 2018. Google, like many other tech companies, is realising the need to disconnect. At I/O, CEO Sundar Pichai said that the company knows that people feel tethered to their devices because of the fear of missing out. To achieve the same, Google has introducing a number of wellbeing features to Android P. The OS will come with a new Android Dashboard which will show users how much time they spend on apps through visual graphs and pie charts. Android P will also lets users set time limits on apps and will nudge them to do something else when that time is up.

Theres also a new Do Not Disturb (DND) Mode on Android P which will silence phone calls and texts, along with visual disturbances that pop up on the screen. Something Apple later copied for Screen Time on iOS 12.

Turning the phone upside down will automatically activate this DND mode, another implementation of gesture support on Android Pie. In emergency situations, pre-determined contacts will be able to reach users that have activated the DND mode.

Android Pie will also get a new Wind Down Mode which will let users tell the Google Assistant their bedtime. The Assistant will then automatically activate the DND mode and the screen will turn grey through the night. Worry not, all colours will return back to normal in the morning.

Bad news is that Digital Wellbeing will only rollout to Android Pie in the fall. Google says that Digital Wellbeing will first officially launch on Pixel phones this fall, with Android One and other devices coming later this year. But these features are available in beta now for Pixel phones running Android 9. Heres what you need to do to try them out:

Make sure youre running Android 9 Pie on your device. Sign up for the beta with the email address you use with Google Play. Accept your invitation to become a beta tester by clicking the link in your welcome email.

Once youve accepted your invitation, Digital Wellbeing will appear in your phones Settings app. It may take up to 24 hours for Digital Wellbeing to appear on your device.

Android 9 also brings important privacy improvements, such as TLS (Transport Layer Security) by default to add an additional layer of security to Android Pie. Android considers all networks potentially hostile and Google feels that encrypting traffic should be used at all times, for all connections. Mobile devices are especially at risk because they regularly connect to many different networks, such as the Wi-Fi at a coffee shop. All traffic should be encrypted, regardless of content, as any unencrypted connections can be used to inject content, increase attack surface for potentially vulnerable client code, or track the user. This will help keep web communications protected and private.

You can read more about the new Android Pie features here. Our Pixel devices are already set to update, so stay tuned for an in-depth Android Pie performance test.

Image Courtesy: Google
Airtel, Telecom Egypt in global submarine cable systems pact

Bharti Airtel has entered into a partnership Telecom Egypt to use Middle East North Africa Submarine Cable (MENA Cable) and TE North Cable Systems and take large capacities on two new cable systems (SMW5 and AAE1).

The transactions would be concluded after the fulfillment of all conditions precedents.

The partnership grants Airtel the right to use fibre pairs of MENA cable from Egypt to India with access to Saudi Arabia and Oman, and other fibre pairs from Egypt towards Italy. It will also extend beyond MENA cable, where Airtel will get the right to use a fibre pair from Egypt to France along with capacities on SMW5 and AAE1 cable systems.

The partnership including MENA Cable and Telecom Egypts network will be a good addition to our global network portfolio and provide us with a high quality and diversified new route to Western Europe and the rest of the world. With the explosion of data usage in emerging markets, including India and Africa, this asset will provide us a scalable and diverse high capacity highway to serve our customers, Ajay Chitkara, director and CEO, Airtel Business, said.

In particular, it will provide impetus to Indias emergence as a major regional internet hub serving customers across SAARC region, with seamless global connectivity, he added.

With this, Airtel will be able to further diversify its global network to serve the massive growth in demand for data services, particularly in emerging markets across South Asia, Africa and Middle East, while also benefitting from the favourable economics of Telecom Egypts existing wide cable systems network.

Our reach and position as an international hub with tens of Tbps lit capacity, makes us the partner of choice for Euro-Asian and Euro-African transit traffic. Telecom Egypt signed the agreement with OTMT to acquire MENA Cable with the aim of capitalizing on the growing traffic from India and Saudi Arabia to Europe and to obtain a new gateway to Europe through Italy, Ahmed El Beheiry, CEO of Telecom Egypt said.

Egypts geographic location on the Red and Mediterranean seas has enabled Telecom Egypt to connect more than 11 cable systems from the East and 13 from the West linked with the Red-Med Corridor consisting of 7 diversified routes across Egypt.

Telecom Egypts global network was built over the years through investments in international submarine cable systems, namely: TE North, ALETAR, SEA-ME-WE-3, SEA-ME-WE-4, SEA-ME-WE-5, IMEWE, EIG, and AAE-1.
Tech Mahindra to set up India's first 'blockchain' district for Telangana

M&M's IT arm Tech Mahindra has signed an MoU with the Telangana government to set up Indias first blockchain district in the state.

The centre of excellence for blockchain will be an incubator for technology and process development with innovative infrastructure and facilities to foster growth of Indian blockchain start-ups and companies.

As a founding member of the district, the company will provide platform and technology assistance to all the incubators. It will also empower accelerators to develop and solve market problems across its global customer ecosystem.

With support from Tech Mahindra, we envision to set a global benchmark in providing cutting-edge Blockchain technology solutions and platforms across industries, remarked K T Rama Rao, the states IT minister. It is not just a proud moment for Telangana but India as a global leader in the Digital Era.

According to C P Gurnani, CEO & MD, Tech Mahindra, the blockchain district can be a global talent hub that can unlock the value of blockchain technology in democratising data and solving big scale world problems.

The International Blockchain Congress, which was held in Hyderabad on 3 and 4 August, also saw the launch of Eleven01 Protocol, claimed to be Indias largest blockchain initiative. It is a joint collaboration between Tech Mahindra and the Eleven01 foundation and aims to foster a cutting-edge ecosystem for blockchain startups in India.

With the Eleven01 protocol, Indian blockchain companies no longer need to rely on foreign technologies to build world class decentralised applications. The protocol promises to fix several issues with existing blockchain platforms, and it will provide a foundation for building decentralised applications that will scale several million users, capable of performing over 10,000 transactions a second.

Tech Mahindra and Eleven01 partnership is a significant development in making India a Blockchain powerhouse, remarked Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog. I am happy to see the industry collaborating on disruptive technologies such as blockchain in taking Digital India movement to the next level.
NHAI invites bids for 8 NH stretches in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Bihar and West Bengal

National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has invited bids for Second Bundle of national highways under the toll-operate-transfer (TOT) model. The bundle consists of eight stretches of national highways in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Bihar and West Bengal, covering 586.552 km

These eight road stretches have 12 toll plazas. The bid due date is 5 November 2018.

Concessionaires have been asked to quote bid concession fee against NHAI's estimated initial estimated concession value (IECV) of Rs5,362 crore. TOT bundle-II also involves initial construction cost of Rs929 crore.

The total contract period of TOT is for 30 years, which may increased or lowered by 10 / 5 years based on increase / decrease in traffic. The concessionaire would be required to maintain and operate the stretch during this period. In lieu of this, the concessionaire would get the rights to collect user fee for this period, in accordance with prescribed fee rates under NH Fee Rules.

For TOT Bundle-I of 648 km, Sydney-based Macquarie Group had quoted highest amount as 1.5 times against the NHAI IECV of approx $1 billion (Rs6,258 crore). The highest bid by Macquarie Group was approximately $1.5 billion, which won it the right to collect toll on nine selected national highway stretches for 30 years against an upfront payment to the government.
After Australia, Ola to challenge Uber in UK market now

Cab-aggregating platforms Ola and Uber are taking their rivalry global with the home-grown Ola planning to launch services in Britain this year, months after expanding operations in Australia.

Ola has obtained licences to begin operations in South Wales in September, as well as Greater Manchester, and plans to expand nationwide by the end of the year, it said in a statement.

Ola will be the only ride-hailing app in the UK that offers passengers the option of 'private hire vehicles' (PHVs) and Black Cabs, which in the future will see additional transportation options incorporated.

While its US peer Uber Technologies Inc has a presence in Britain, its out of London,

The cab aggregator is working with local authorities across UK to expand nationwide by end of 2018.

"Ola is excited to announce its plans for the UK, one of the worlds most evolved transportation markets," Bhavish Aggarwal, co-founder and chief executive officer of Ola, said. We look forward to our continued engagement with policymakers and regulators as we expand across the country and build a company embedded in the UK.

Ola said it's inviting private hire vehicle and metered taxi drivers in Cardiff, Newport, and Vale of Glamorgan and is also offering low introductory commission rate of 10 per cent.

Founded in 2011, Ola is present across more than 110 Indian cities, and said it connects over 1 million drivers across cabs, auto-rickshaws, and taxis.

We look forward to providing a responsible, compelling, new service that can help the country (U.K.) meet its ever demanding mobility needs, Aggarwal said.

Ola and Uber, which both count Japans SoftBank Group as an investor, have so far been competing in Indias $12 billion taxi market. And by extension to the global market, SoftBank also must be hoping the market to consolidate, giving it a firm grip on the global cab aggregation market.

Ola is targeting high-profile markets to offset losses in India where consumers demanding low-cost rides makes competition more intense while for Uber, which is used to high-end markets, India is a challenge both in terms of operational costs and profitability.

Ola launched its Australia operations in February, one of Ubers strongholds where the Indian company now has 40,000 drivers on its platform across seven cities.

Uber, in March, decided to exit Southeast Asia, allowing it to focus on India.

Ola clocks one billion rides each year globally, and has more than one million driver partners in over 110 cities, it said.

The company is also expanding into food delivery, has partnered Microsoft Corp to build a platform for networked cars, and is experimenting with electric vehicles.
NCLAT extends bid deadline for Bhushan Power & Steel to 13 August

The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) on Monday further extended the deadline for submitting bids for Bhushan Power and Steel from Monday (6 August) to 13 August.

The NCLAT had, on 1 August, asked the three bidders  Tata Steel, JSW Steel and Liberty House  to submit bids by 6 August and had set the next hearing for 17 August.

However, Tata Steel, which had moved the Supreme Court against the decision to invite fresh bids, had sought more time for submitting bids. Tata Steel is seeking a stay on the NCLT decision to invite revised bids following the NCLAT order.

Tata Steel moved the SC on 3 August seeking an urgent hearing, but the three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra turned down the urgent hearing plea and posted the matter for 10 August.

This will give both lenders and bidders time to plan their moves. It also raises the prospect of the bids going much higher.

Bhushan Power and Steel owes banks Rs49,700 crore.

Against this, Tata Steel bid Rs17,000 core in July, which was then the highest bid. But, before the creditors could decide on the offer, JSW Steel had revised its bid from Rs11,000 crore to about Rs19,000 crore, way higher than Tata Steels Rs17,000 crore, and beating Liberty Houses offer of Rs18,600 crore.

Tata Steel had written a letter to Bhushan Steels Committee of Creditors not to consider the Rs19,000-crore revised bid placed by JSW Steel. When the CoC informed NCLAT about the new, higher bid by JSW Steel, the Tribunal asked all the three bidders, including Liberty House, to revise their bids by 6 August. This has now been extended to 13 August

The resolution period for the company was to end on 23 June.
China's Holitech to set up handset component plant in Andhra

Chinese mobile component supplier Holitech Group plans to set up set up a production facility in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh.

The project, estimated to cost Rs1,400 crore, will supply mobile phone components like camera modules and touch panels to Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi.

According to Holitech, the facility is expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2019, and will employ 6,000 people in the next three years.

Holitech Technology CEO Guisheng Chen told reporters, the facility will cater exclusively to Xiaomi and have an annual capacity of 50 million component sets at the end of phase I, which will be ramped up to 100 million within three years. The components that will be made at the Tirupati facility include camera modules, TFT (thin film transistor), flexible printed circuit, touch panels and fingerprint modules.

The facility in India is our first international foray. We expect to see revenue of USD 2 billion from here after phase II, Chen said.

In April, Xiaomi had hosted a global meet in Delhi that saw participation from 50 of its global suppliers. The company, at that time, had said these suppliers setting up manufacturing base in India would bring in Rs 15,000 crore in investment and create 50,000 jobs.

Xiaomi Vice President and India Managing Director Manu Jain said local manufacturing of components could bring down prices of mobile phones. Holitech, which supplies to other global handset makers also, has 16 factories in China and Taiwan and employs about 30,000 people.
The sun should not set twice before hip fracture repair

Optimal timing to reduce mortality after hip surgery in medically stable older patients is on the day of admission or the following day, according to a large study published in CMAJ(Canadian Medical Association Journal).

In Canada, about 30 000 older adults are admitted to hospital each year with hip fracture. They are at increased risk of death, with about 5 per cent of women and 10 per cent of men dying within 30 days. Canadian Health Ministers have set 48 hours from admission as a standard for 90 per cent of hip fracture surgeries. However, the appropriate timing of hip fracture surgery remains a matter of debate, with some research indicating an optimal window of 24 hours.

"Our study was concerned with effects of possible changes in policy for the timing of surgery on mortality in the population of patients with hip fracture in Canada," says lead author, Prof Boris Sobolev, School of Population and Public Health, the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.

Researchers from Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States analyzed data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information on nearly 140 000 patients aged 65 years or older who had surgery for a first-time hip fracture at 144 hospitals in Canada (38 teaching and 106 community hospitals). The majority (74 per cent) were women and almost half were older than 85 years.

The authors asked how post-operative mortality would change if the same patient population were to undergo surgery on the day of admission, on inpatient day 2, day 3, or after day 3, as would be done in a randomised trial. Previous studies had, in contrast, compared mortality among patients with various observed times to surgery.

The authors project an additional 11 deaths for every 1000 hip fracture surgeries if all surgeries in medically stable patients were done after inpatient day 3 instead of on admission day.

"Our findings allow us to infer a critical point for the timing of hip fracture repair. We suggest that clinicians, administrators, and policy-makers 'not let the sun set twice' on medically stable older adults before their hip fracture repair," says Dr. Pierre Guy, an orthopedic surgeon and a principal investigator in this study.

"We estimate that 16.5 per cent of in-hospital deaths currently occurring in patients delayed for more than two days are avoidable by adopting the 'don't let the sun set twice' policy for hip fracture patients," he says.

The "two sunsets" recommendation is stricter than the current 48-hour standard and places the emphasis of managerial efforts on ensuring timely access to the operating room for patients whose surgery might be delayed due to late admission or hospital transfer.
A public meeting will be held in the community centre in Dunkineely tonight at 8pm and locals who have organised the meeting are asking for a huge turnout to reflect the level of opposition to the closure of the village's post office.

Roger Meehan, a Fianna Fail party member and local activist, has urged people to show their opposition by their attendance.

There are 21 post offices due to close in the north west, 13 of those in Donegal, four in Leitrim including Killargy in north Leitrim and others in Sligo.

The Dunkineely meeting is one of a number of similar meetings to be held in the north west, other meetings take place in Ballinful and Gurteen in County Sligo on Thursday night.

Donegal Sinn Fein councillor Noel Jordan said the community in Dunkineely were not "going to let this go without a fight". He said they hoped An Post would be represented at the meeting tonight.

He indicated that among other ideas they would ask if the post office could be co-located in another business in the village.
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What will it look like?

In its most basic form the Scrambler is a four-door Wrangler with a ute tray on the back. It requires modifications to the ladder frame chassis and a tray rear-end behind the second-row seats. The rear tailgate remains a mystery but will likely have Jeep embossed across it with the Scrambler name nearby. But from the B-pillar forward it will essentially look like a Wrangler.

Given the Scramblers heritage and Jeeps penchant to bring out special edition models there will no doubt be a bunch of optional packs for the ute, bringing back the twin side stripes and unique alloys the original received.

Based on the latest JL Wrangler we can expect a similar level of robust design inside, including a chunky moulded dash, round air vents, new diff lock and sway bar control switches, a mix of analogue and digital dash displays and an up to 8.4-inch infotainment system.

Whats new?

Based on the ladder frame chassis that underpins the Wrangler, the Scrambler will be geared towards off-road use and have a one tonne-payload with 3500kg tow capacity.

Engine options from the Wrangler that will pop straight in include the new 200kW/400Nm 2.0-litre petrol turbo and a 194kW/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 diesel that would sit top of the class  but those engines are pretty well off the cards for Australia.

Instead, wed likely have the choice of a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine producing 150kW and 450Nm, and an updated 3.6-litre petrol V6 producing around 210kW of power and 350Nm of torque.

Transmissions will be a six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic mated to Jeeps Selec-Trac four-wheel drive system.

A point of difference over some of the competition will be if the Scrambler is able to secure safety technology from the Wrangler like autonomous emergency braking that it will need to score a five star ANCAP rating.

Whats on the wish list?

The 3.0-litre V6 would add a third ute to the V6 turbo diesel fight thats currently owned by German rivals the VW Amarok and Mercedes-Benz X-Class. But why go only halfway when the US brand can salute its heritage with a Hellcat-style Hemi V8 thatd blow HSVs Sportscat and Ford Ranger Raptor out of the water.

When is it coming?

The new Wrangler is only around the corner and the Scrambler wont be far behind. Its tipped to reveal itself in full towards the end of this year or early next, perhaps as early as the LA motor show in November.
In news that no one saw coming Gerry Adams has announced that he will be publishing a cookbook which will contain some of the best-kept secrets of the Irish peace process.

The Louth TD revealed the news that he would reveal all - of his secret recipes - in the new book whilst speaking at a Feile an Phobail event in West Belfast on Monday night.

The book, which is titled The Negotiators Cook Book, is expected to be printed by Sinn Fein before Christmas.

Mr Adams told his followers on Twitter last night that the book will make "a great stocking filler".

Not 2 Long 2 Christmas. A Wee Taste Of A Great Stocking Filler From Ted & Padraic agus Mise. pic.twitter.com/XmtEYAk76c  Gerry Adams (@GerryAdamsSF) August 6, 2018

Speaking at the event last night the former Sinn Fein leader said:

The British never fed us. They never had any food. But as intrepid republicans and being blessed by one or two great cooks these are the recipes that sustained the Irish negotiating team.

It contains some of the best-kept secrets of the Irish peace process.

Chefs hats off to the website Buzz.ie for this mock-up of Mr. Adams in the kitchen:

We also enjoyed the following tweet:

Gerry Adams is releasing a cook book. So now this tweet makes perfect sense. https://t.co/JXaNKvnj0t  James Ashe (@james_c_ashe) August 7, 2018

And this image which has emerged of Gerry cooking on TV in 2016:
A Dundalk mum-of-four has credited CBD Oil as the reason her two-year-old disabled daughter Zoe has been able to take her first steps.

When Lynda Bannons daughter was diagnosed with quadriplegia and cerebral palsy at 21 months old, doctors warned that she could be in a wheelchair for life.

But the 32-year-old mum, who works at Paypal, said that she and her husband Eamonn began to notice the changes in Zoe just two weeks after starting her on a dose of the medicinal cannabis oil.

She wasnt walking before and now she can take a few steps using a walking frame and even shouts out steps when shes doing it. The oil has given her body the strength to be able to do this, the mum explained,

Its too much of a coincidence that Zoe has come on so much since she started taking the CBD Oil. I will never take her off it now.

Whilst Lynda is overjoyed that her wee warrior is taking her first steps, she says that one of the most rewarding changes was with Zoes ability to communicate. Previously Zoe was unable to communicate up to when she was 14 months old. The toddler also suffered from separation anxiety and found it hard to communicate.

Lynda said: Before if I had family or friends around in the house, Zoe couldnt even look at people. Her speech and communication have come on leaps and bounds. She is 100% a different child.

Now shes able to tell me where she is sore when she wakes up during the night so I can help her. Although sometimes I do think she just wants to get into the bed with us for a cuddle! She knows what shes doing.

Lynda also credits her daughters Kayleigh, Brooke and Teagan in helping Zoes development: She also loves playing with her older sisters and copying them. They are just fantastic with her.

Lynda explained that herself and her husband came across the use CBD Oil as a treatment for Zoes conditions through American Facebook groups.

In the US CBD Oil is used a lot. People are very open about it. When we first bought the CBD Oil we were both terrified to give it to Zoe. There is still a stigma attached to it here in Ireland. We had it sitting in the corner for weeks. But she was in such pain, we decided to try it, said Lynda.

When asked what advice she would give to other parents who are looking into treating their children with CBD Oil, Lynda says:

I would say to people don't hesitate like I did. Its an all natural product - get over the stigma.

Even children who are on the autistic spectrum, I think it would really help them. I mean, youd do anything for your kids.

Lynda says that the next step will be to build Zoe's strength up so that she can travel to the US to get an SDR surgery carried out next year.

She said: I can see a goal now, which I couldn't see before. We are working towards building her strength up for the operation and I have to think about fundraising the 100,000 to cover costs.

The doctors are amazed at her progress so far. Its tough every day but she is surprising everyone. We see so much potential in Zoe.

CBD Network Ireland has since gotten in touch with Lynda after reading the above article (in last's week's print edition of The Dundalk Democrat) and has set up a Go Fund Me page to help with Zoe's upcoming specialist surgery in America. You can help here: www.gofundme.com/zoemurphyappeal
Uber passengers across Australia face the prospect of more stop-work action by drivers if the ride-sharing company refuses to improve pay rates for add-on services.

Tens of thousands of Uber drivers did not pick up passengers during Mondays morning commute as they protested for fairer conditions.

Ride Share Drivers United want Uber to axe its up-front pricing and go back to paying drivers for the actual time and distance travelled, to allow for unexpected traffic, stops or even road closures.

The group wants drivers to be allowed to opt-out of multiple pick-up service UberPool, while those who choose to opt-in be paid the equivalent of base Uber rates plus at least an extra 20 per cent. The protest also calls to increase UberX rates by at least 15 per cent.

Drivers in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Hobart and Perth logged-off between 7am to 9.30am on Monday in the call for Uber to meet their demands within 10 days or face more disruptions.

The upfront payment and UberPool are two extra layers of exploitation as a contractor you have no control over your business, group spokesman Max B, who declined to give his surname, told AAP.

You work much harder than a normal trip (in UberPool) and often you have to stop in illegal stopping places, where you get fined.

Uber never consults drivers. Uber needs to bring prices to sustainable levels.

He said customers should not have to pay more, rather Uber should cut back its commission on rides.

Andrew Jewell, Principal lawyer, McDonald Murholme, said, As Uber drivers are not treated as employees their industrial action is not protected. Accordingly, the drivers can request higher pay but Uber is under no obligation to consider this request. If the drivers were deemed to be employees then Uber would need to meet minimum employment standards as set out in the National Employment Standards and the relevant modern award.

Uber drivers have many characteristics of an employee and accordingly should enjoy the protections that come with employment, which includes minimum wage rates. Even if the drivers are independent contractors they should receive at least the minimum award for employees in a similar position. If they are not receiving minimum rates of pay they can hardly be said to be operating a business.

Presumably a protest of this kind has direct and indirect impact on a business. The direct impact is the lost revenue associated with drivers refusing to work; the indirect impact is the damage to reputation that comes with a protest of this kind and any form of regulatory response which would change the way the business has to operate.

An Uber spokeswoman told AAP the company wanted successful driver-partners so had invested in technology to encourage more riders to share tips about the best times and places to drive.

We have a range of channels for driver-partners to engage with Uber and provide feedback including regular round tables and focus groups, partner support centres around Australia, plus phone and 24/7 in-app support, she said in a statement.

Ride-sharing platform Olas country manager for Australia, Simon Smith, said the strike was a sign Australian ride-share drivers are fed up and demand better working conditions.

With AAP.


There are endless stories of successful entrepreneurs whove thrown caution to the wind, giving up everything they own to start a new venture. Their belief in their dream so strong, theyve mortgaged the house, sold the car and spent their entire life savings getting that awesome new idea off the ground. And it makes for an excellent story when it all works out. When you can see all those risk were worth it.

But the cold hard reality is that not all businesses succeed. For whatever reason  whether its lack of marketing, lack of research, tough competition or just plain bad luck  many businesses wont even make it to their second or third anniversary. Starting a business is tough. And no matter how much money or time you invest, or how much you believe in your idea, sometimes things just dont work out the way you hoped. And what happens then, if youve mortgaged your house and spent your life savings trying to realise your dream?

Dont give up your day job

If you have a business idea but the idea of risking everything is too great, sometimes it pays to hang on to your day job while building the business on the side. Yes, its a lot of work and will eat up more personal time than you could possibly imagine! But having a steady pay check not only means the bills will be paid, but that the decisions you make in your new venture wont come from a place of stress or desperation.

Make a plan

Planning is important for any business, but its particularly important when youre also working a full time job. Weeks fly by so quickly that its easy to let the side business slide. You need to know roughly what you want to achieve in a year, then break that down into a small, achievable goal for each month. Then work out a few things you need to do each week to get there  and stick to the plan. No ifs or buts.

Stick to a schedule

One of the best ways to achieve your to-do list each week is to build it into your schedule until it becomes a habit. Decide how long you think youll need and then double it  it always takes longer than expected. Block out certain nights of the week you know youll be able to get home on time, or certain times on weekends. The more time you can put aside each week, the quicker youre going to start seeing results.

Get an accountant

This might sound like a no-brainer, but its important to get your business financials organised from the get go. There are a few nuances to be aware of when youre earning income tax as an individual and then acting as a sole trader business or company on the side. Not to mention getting your head around GST! So go to a professional and get set up properly from the start to avoid a headache further down the track.

Make time for you

Its true you need to dedicate the bulk of your free time to your new business  particularly in that first year. But when youre working full time and building something new, if you dont also make time for you, youll completely burn out. Its inevitable your social life will suffer somewhat and you may not exercise as much as you used to. But dont neglect self-care altogether  its just as important to block out time for yourself, your family and friends.

Consider part time

Once youve managed to get your business off the ground it should start paying for itself and eventually, start turning a profit. And when your business grows, your customer base grows and ultimately, so will the time you need to dedicate to it. This is when you need to make the call  do you want to keep working weekends and evenings for the foreseeable future? Or is it time to consider going part time and dedicate more time to the business?

We launched Bookabuy in 2015 and for the first two years we essentially funded it ourselves. While both working full-time jobs, Bookabuy has grown slowly but steadily with 60% year on year growth. Now, in our third year, its finally turning a profit and Mel has decided to go part time and put more energy into the business.

Could we have grown more quickly had we both given up everything and jumped in, feet first? Perhaps. But theres also a chance we might have run our finances into the ground and never made it to our third year at all. If you have a business idea you want to pursue and youre ok with the idea of building it slowly, consider hanging on to your job for a while. Itll be a hard slog, for sure. But it wont be forever. And if you succeed, transitioning into a fully operational business will be a much less stressful exercise in the long run.

Chris & Melissa Tantchev, Bookabuy

Chris & Melissa Tantchev are the co-founders of Bookabuy, Australias first personalised book subscription service.


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TrueCommerce, based in Seven Fields, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday announced the integration of its unified commerce solutions with Shopify, provider of a cloud-based, multichannel commerce platform.

Ottawa, Ontario-based Shopify powered more than 600,000 merchants across 175 countries as of last August.

The new offering, which is built on the TrueCommerce Foundry platform, will give Shopify merchants a unified scheme for greater integration across all commerce channels within a business' systems and supply chain network.

In addition, TrueCommerce will provide the greater Shopify community with access to more than 92,000 fulfillment partners that will be pre-connected on the TrueCommerce global network.

Through this integration, Shopify will have a unified multichannel platform for seamless handling of orders placed either on the Shopify storefront or through national retailers and other digital marketplaces.

Tracking information and order confirmations can be sent back to Shopify automatically, while inventory can be synchronized in real time.

"The current wave of retailing places pressure on organizations across the value chain to grow their brands and retool their supply chain to offer a true omnichannel experience," said TrueCommerce president Ross Elliott.

"TrueCommerce's innovative supply chain solutions help equip organizations with the key capabilities needed to build and grow their digital strategies in a complicated and fiercely competitive market," he added. "TrueCommerce integrated our full capabilities with the robust Shopify platform to better serve our customers who are asking for our help equipping their business to compete more effectively and grow in today's marketplace."

Shopify recently announced a partnership with Deliv to offer same-day delivery capabilities. It also recently joined forced with Google in an ad-based partnership. Shopify last year entered an integration partnership with Amazon, whereby it would allow merchants to sell on Amazon via their respective Shopify stores.

Enriching the User Experience

For retailers, another advantage of the TrueCommerce platform's integration with Shopify will be the ability to have enriched product content published directly on the Shopify storefront, which could help optimize product listings and assortments.

Further, it will offer seamless integration with Shopify orders from more than 25 leading accounting and ERP systems, allowing orders to be synchronized and have their fulfillment status updated accordingly. The fulfillment capabilities can be enhanced along the way with direct integration of the TrueCommerce Pack & Solution, a Web-based, end-to-end automated platform.

All of these operations will be pre-connected with the necessary dropship vendors or third-party logistics providers. The integration also will leverage available product information management capabilities that will enable users to sync product data and pricing between various business systems and a Shopify store.

New Twist on an Old Idea

Although the TrueCommerce and Shopify partnership offers benefits for both parties, as well as associated retailers, at its core it is just a new twist on existing concepts.

"The vision of e-commerce that emerged during the dot-com boom in the 1990s was of a virtual playing field that was level for businesses of every size, kind and location," said Charles King, principal analyst at Pund-IT.

"Two decades later, the reality is quite different, with behemoths like Amazon and Walmart slugging it out over cutthroat pricing and super-fast delivery, and mom-and-pop micro-businesses leveraging eBay and similar sites," he told the E-Commerce Times.

"Caught in the middle are tens of thousands of companies that need the Web to support their businesses, but seldom have the time and resources to exploit its full potential," King added. "Such organizations use Shopify to set up and manage their online stores and retail transactions."

Taking On Retail Giants

The TrueCommerce integration also could allow smaller retailers to take on giants such as Amazon and Walmart, but Shopify could be hedging its bets by partnering with Amazon as well.

"In the same way enterprises are trying transform IT into a multicloud procurement strategy, online retail sales are increasingly multichannel," said Paul Teich, principal analyst at DoubleHorn.

"Shopify grew from a small business focus, where its inventory and back-end functions are fairly simple," he told the E-Commerce Times.

"That makes Shopify easy to use, but if a vendor is selling through its own storefront plus a few other e-commerce channels, such as eBay, Amazon and others, then inventory management and order fulfillment for all of those separate channels may become a challenge to manage in a unified fashion," Teich explained.

TrueCommerce claims to interface with enterprise-class accounting and ERP systems on the back end, and also handles multicarrier shipping, noted Teich.

"The sweet spot for this bit of integration will be growing multichannel e-commerce businesses that may be struggling to coordinate order fulfillment across all their channels," he suggested.

Importance of Managed Solutions

For small to mid-sized businesses, this integration could help ensure that they will not be displaced online the way some brick-and-mortar SMBs have been driven off Main Street by big box retailers.

"We're seeing tech trending from point solutions that solve specific problems toward platform solutions that provide integrated and powerful solutions with one dashboard," said Rick Ducey, managing director at BIA Advisory Services.

"SMBs want tech that is reliable, easy to use, secure and cost-effective, and it has to integrate easily with other tech," he told the E-Commerce Times.

However, only a third of SMBs currently have e-commerce solutions, and just over a fifth plan to add these services, according to BIA Advisory Services' recent research.

"This leaves an attractive gap as an addressable market for TrueCommerce and Shopfiy to target and serve," said Ducey.

"SMBs find a variety of service levels -- ranging from DIY (do it yourself) to DIWM (do it with me) to DIFM (do it for me) -- helpful, depending on their circumstances," he added. "We're seeing the costs for tech platforms become more attractive to SMBs while also becoming better integrated and more powerful as accessible solution sets in terms of learning curves and maintenance. These factors combine to create an environment that will foster more sophisticated operations for SMBs and more competitiveness."

Market Disrupter

In addition to being helpful to smaller players, the TrueCommerce integration could be a market disrupter by removing the middleman from the sales process.

"On paper it is like Amazon for merchants, and it could go a long way to making distributors obsolete," said Rob Enderle, principal analyst at the Enderle Group.

"We used to call this 'disintermediation,' and if executed well, it would better allow merchants to compete with Amazon without as great a need for scale -- and both enable and support new structures like Nordstrom Local," he told the E-Commerce Times.

"As an initiative, this is very powerful. As a model, this could change dramatically the competitive dynamic between smaller stores and Amazon," said Enderle.

Getting Consumers Engaged

It's unclear how important this integration will be to consumers, who may not notice any of the benefits or improvements it brings to their experience.

"Consumers are still trying to decide what they like best on the front end, while on the back-end -- where things really don't show up for consumers -- the real integration challenges take place," said BIA Advisory Services' Ducey.

"This is where much of the all-important customer experience actually gets built and operated," he said.

"E-commerce is only about 10 percent of total retail sales, but critical to consumer engagement and satisfaction with the brand both online and in bricks-and-mortar," Ducey pointed out.

"The stakes are high for managing the back end of e-commerce in ways that let businesses focus on the customer experience and let others drive the tech behind the curtains," he noted.

"In essence, Shopify and TrueCommerce aim to reduce or remove many of the headaches associated with online retail with services," said Pund-IT's King. "Those are benefits that many Shopify clients are likely to welcome."

Peter Suciu has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2012. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, mobile phones, displays, streaming media, pay TV and autonomous vehicles. He has written and edited for numerous publications and websites, including Newsweek, Wired and FoxNews.com. Email Peter.




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If you operate an e-commerce company, the world is at your fingertips, and global markets offer the enticing promise of increased visibility and sales.

"International expansion is a great way to mitigate risk and reliance on a single market for all your sales," noted Chris Vincent, global CEO of Practicology.

"Picking up sales from international markets is a great way to offset softer sales domestically if you sell products that are unique and in demand," he told the E-Commerce Times, "or you can compete with local players on delivery or price."

How to get started may seem murky, though. With that in mind, following are some tips about how to expand your sales globally.

1. Know Why You're Going Global

Before venturing away from your home market, it's important to know why you're doing it. This means, in part, that you must have a sense that your products will sell elsewhere.

"Global expansion is a great way to grow your business," said Peter Lukomskyj, senior vice present for products at Elastic Path.

"That said, don't assume that just because you're successful in your home market you'll be successful abroad," he told the E-Commerce Times. "Do you have something unique or different enough that there is going to be a lot of demand? Test new markets to determine whether they are ready for your products, if your price-point resonates, and if you can meet buyers' expectations for overall customer experiences."

Though it can be time-consuming, doing your homework before expanding globally will pay off in the end.

"If you get it right, you could be that innovative company which sparks a new trend," noted Lukomskyj. "If you get it wrong, global expansion plans can erode margins quickly."

2. Work Out the Logistics

It's important to know how you'll fulfill and deliver products to customers once you have them in a new market. Don't wait until you've made your first sales to figure out what you're going to do next.

"A business faces many challenges when deciding to market, sell, fulfill and support customers outside of the countries where they're accustomed to doing business," Lukomskyj pointed out.

"The first decision a company must make is whether to sell from their current country and then ship to the customer, or set up operations in target countries with a fully localized experience taking local payments, in local currencies, under local tax requirements," he said.

3. Know Your Market

Make sure that you spend some time getting to know a country's culture before expanding into a market outside your home country. Those insights can make the difference between selling to customers and alienating them.

"Understanding the local environment and its norms is a major issue," said Lukomskyj. "Shoppers from other countries can quickly be turned off if their local customs aren't respected. Black Friday would be a foreign concept in France, just as much as Singles Day would be a foreign concept to North Americans."

You'll want to localize your marketing, sales, fulfillment and distribution efforts as much as possible, so that potential customers feel comfortable buying from you.

"We advise our clients that they need to localize their online offer for every international market they enter if they want to compete against local retailers and etailers," said Practicology's Vincent.

4. Work Out Payments

It's important to know how you'll be taking payments, and to make sure your payment processing makes sense in the country you're targeting.

"It's also critical to know how people make payments. While North Americans use credit cards extensively, other countries use direct debit, online transfer and even invoicing more often," noted Lukomskyj.

5. Get Clear on Taxes and Fees

One of the most common mistakes businesses make when going global is failing to investigate taxes and fees in the markets they're entering.

"The highest-consequence mistakes are those with the largest financial impact," said Lukomskyj. "Do not misunderstand local tax regulations or overlook how to repatriate sales revenue to your company's primary legal entity. Some countries require a local partner to own a percentage of the legal entity selling goods in that country."

6. Partner Up

You don't need to go it alone when going global. Don't be afraid to look for marketing, sales, fulfillment and distribution partners that know local markets and can help improve your business there.

"Even if you are within a large company well staffed for entrance into new markets, find some partners to help you understand each major component -- marketing, selling/e-commerce, fulfilling, support," advised Lukomskyj.

"There are proven approaches to test new markets to see how well your brand will perform," he added.

7. Emphasize Good Customer Service

Success in selling globally -- like selling anywhere -- comes down to offering good customer service. The better customer service your business provides, the more you'll be able to get over the inevitable hurdles that accompany the process of expanding your reach, suggested Philip Rooke, CEO of Spreadshirt.

"It's all about customer service," he told the E-Commerce Times. "Ultimately, you don't want people to realize it's an international business selling to them."

Vivian Wagner has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2008. Her main areas of focus are technology, business, CRM, e-commerce, privacy, security, arts, culture and diversity. She has extensive experience reporting on business and technology for a variety of outlets, including The Atlantic, The Establishment and O, The Oprah Magazine. She holds a PhD in English with a specialty in modern American literature and culture. She received a first-place feature reporting award from the Ohio Society of Professional Journalists. Email Vivian.




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Facebook and Google have manipulated users into sharing data using so-called "dark patterns," such as misleading wording and confusing interfaces, according to a report the Norwegian Consumer Council released Wednesday.

The practices nudged users toward accepting privacy options that favored the tech companies rather than themselves, the NCC found.

Facebook and Google have no intention of providing users with an actual choice, the NCC has claimed, and their use of dark patterns constitutes a violation of the General Data Protection Regulation implemented across Europe last month.

Some of the dark patterns: providing misleading privacy-intrusive default settings; hiding privacy-friendly choices; and giving users the illusion of control while at the same time presenting them with take-it-or-leave-it options. Privacy-friendly options -- when they are provided -- tend to require more effort from the user, according to the NCC.

The companies have been manipulating users into sharing information, the NCC alleged, noting that such behavior shows a lack of respect for individuals or their personal data and privacy.

Users who declined to choose certain settings were subject to deletion of their accounts in some cases.

The Norwegian trade organization, which has been joined by other consumer and privacy groups in Europe and in the United States, has called for European data protection authorities to investigate whether Facebook and Google -- as well as Microsoft to a lesser degree, via its Windows products -- have been acting in accordance with the GDPR and U.S. rules.

If the companies are found to be in violation of the GDPR, they could face fines of up to 20 million euros (US$24 million) or 4 percent of their annual global turnover.

Default Settings

When it comes to the collection and sharing of user data, the default settings provided by the tech companies favor the companies over the end user, the NCC concluded.

Users rarely change pre-selected settings, and both Facebook and Google have set the least-friendly privacy choices as their defaults, according to the report.

More worrisome is that the sharing of personal data and the use of targeted advertising routinely are presented as being beneficial to the user, said the NCC. The wording and design suggests users actually benefit from having their data shared. At the same time, users who might want to opt for stricter privacy controls receive warnings about lost functionality.

The NCC singled out Google for designing a privacy dashboard that actually discourages users from changing or even taking control of their settings, and for implying that users benefit from the default settings.

The NCC noted that Facebook users actually are given no substantial choice -- even after they take the extra effort to change their respective settings.

Microsoft received some praise for giving equal weight to privacy-friendly and unfriendly options in its Windows 10 operating system settings.

Patterns of Deception

The impact of the report's findings is not limited to people within Europe.

"Basically, 'dark matter' reads like a list of practices that have been commonplace for years among Web companies that rely on advertising revenues for survival -- particularly Facebook and Google," said Charles King, principal analyst at Pund-IT.

"The bigger issue here is that since the EU's recently implemented GDPR outlaws those functions, offending companies need to scrub them out of their sites or risk significant fines," he told TechNewsWorld.

"The thing is that dark practices are so mundane that they've become pretty scrub-resistant, as the NCC investigation discovered," King added.

The companies have been increasingly successful at monetizing data.

"Facebook and Google have built very powerful platforms, businesses and audiences off the backs of their users' data," said Brock Berry, CEO of AdCellerant.

"Their platforms are almost a utility to the public, in many ways, that's operated like a business," he told TechNewsWorld.

"When they're divisive in their tactics, they open the doors for competitors to enter the market, and I hope consumers step up, slow their usage of these platforms, and test other options that are more customer/consumer-centric," Berry added.

"Facebook and Google have a duty to be consumer-friendly and customer-first focused," he said. "It's against everything they stand for to be surreptitious in their methods of collecting user data."

Dark Truth

Although the NCC report specifically calls out Facebook and Google, as well as Microsoft's Windows 10 operating system, this could be just the tip of the iceberg in terms of how software firms have been handling the issue of privacy.

"This practice isn't limited to the big tech companies; almost all tech companies obfuscate the data they collect about users," said Josh Crandall, principal analyst at Netpop Research.

"Most of the data are used for productive purposes, but sometimes companies have used it for more profit-oriented endeavors that users may not appreciate," he told TechNewsWorld.

However, given the severity of the fines that companies may face, the days of dark patterns could be coming to an end in Europe and the United States.

"Facebook, Google, Microsoft and others are working to address the problem," remarked Pund-IT's King.

"It's too dangerous and costly for them to ignore, but it also looks like an issue that defies a simple 'turn off the spigot' fix -- meaning we're likely to continue to see similar investigations and findings in the months to come," he predicted.

"In addition, it should be a wake-up call for companies affected by GDPR who hope they can somehow skate under the radar and escape notice," King said. "Facebook, etc., are obviously big fish, but over time the NCC and other GDPR watchdogs will turn their attention to smaller fry."

Peter Suciu has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2012. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, mobile phones, displays, streaming media, pay TV and autonomous vehicles. He has written and edited for numerous publications and websites, including Newsweek, Wired and FoxNews.com. Email Peter.




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Worldwide spending on blockchain will hit US$1.5 billion this year -- twice as much as in 2017 -- and it will total nearly $12 billion in 2022, according to IDC. The technology is expected to have a five-year compound annual growth rate of 73.2 percent.

Cross-business collaboration and interoperability have emerged as key aspects in the technology's growth.

The financial sector will lead the spending on blockchain -- $550 million this year -- driven largely by rapid adoption in the banking industry.

"Bank of America has filed more blockchain-related patents than any other company," noted Shidan Gouran, CEO of Global Blockchain.

"While they are not exactly using blockchain at the moment, these patents foreshadow future use in the banking industry," he told the E-Commerce Times.

The distribution and services sector, which will spend about $380 million this year on blockchain, will come next, led by retail and professional service.

Discrete and process manufacturing will lead this year's spend of $334 million in the manufacturing and resources sector.

A Business Model Enabler

Blockchain is "a versatile technology that can record financial transactions, store medical records, or even track the flow of goods, information and payments through a supply chain," according to an analysis of Deloitte's 2018 global blockchain survey by Linda Pawczuk, principal at Deloitte Consulting, Rob Massey, tax partner at Deloitte Tax, and David Schatsky, managing director of Deloitte.

Ultimately, blockchain is more a business model enabler than a technology, they maintained.

"Emerging disruptors" -- that is, startups that have grown to the point where they are, or will soon be, disrupting the larger players in their markets -- "have business models inspired by blockchain. They ... focus energy on what is possible and then deal with any challenges as they arise," the analysts wrote.

The greatest spending and growth for blockchain will be around lot lineage and assets and goods management, said Jessica Goepfert, program VP at IDC Customer Insights and Analysis.

This is being spurred by "highly visible scandals combined with complex supply chains and incomplete information," she told the E-Commerce Times.

Blockchain "takes away control from one central authority, such as a bank, and puts trust in many decentralized, anonymous participants," observed Hemant Ameria, principal consultant at Mindtree.

"No one party can make changes or alter the transactions or stored data," he told the E-Commerce Times. "You can't alter one block without disrupting the [other] interconnected blocks."

B2B Identity, Trust and Data Issues

B2B companies have been developing proofs of concept for blockchain, noted Ray Wang, principal analyst at Constellation Research, who identified the following as some of its use cases:

Identity resolution -- for situations involving many parties in which trust is low;

Data provenance -- for tracking records in an immutable fashion; and

Tracing networks and smart contracts -- for crafting value exchange requirements in advance of engagement.

"Companies such as Humanity.com use blockchain to make data privacy a property right," Wang told the E-Commerce Times. "This way, in their first use case, such as healthcare data, patients can make sure they don't blindly opt in all their data to a healthcare provider and then find it's been resold."

Also, "we see folks ensuring that a jet engine is serviced by a certified mechanic at the right service intervals in order to meet warranty requirements," Wang remarked.

Blockchain and E-Commerce

Blockchain technology is particularly suited to e-commerce because e-commerce and blockchain are all about transactions, noted Ignite CEO Aviram Eisenberg.

A blockchain is a distributed or shared ledger that "allows any digital asset to be securely stored, shared, and acted upon, manually or automatically," Eisenberg said. Blockchain technology can handle "the entire user experience, including product searches and selection, patent processing and post-sale customer care. And that's just the beginning."

In addition to improved security, distributed ledger technology can interface with new and existing systems, which allows tie-ins between online stores and "a multitude of internal and external systems, processes and partners," Eisenberg pointed out.

The Ethereum cryptocurrency framework can host other forms of cryptocurrencies, he noted. Although not as widely accepted as bitcoin, it is the most widely used platform for hosting smart contracts, he said.

IBM offers a robust platform suitable for large e-commerce blockchains, but the most flexible blockchains are those custom-built for an enterprise.

Fighting Counterfeit Goods

Blockchain technology "prevents issues such as theft, since it's difficult for cryptographically labeled goods to just disappear and be resold," Global Blockchain's Gouran noted.

It's also problematic to replace a genuine product with counterfeit goods, he added, and blockchain "enables a shipment's path to be traced back to its origin."

Manufacturers want to ensure that products reach their destinations, while retailers and wholesalers seek reassurance around the validity and quality of the products they offer, IDC's Goepfert said. Consumers want greater transparency from providers.

Staggering numbers of counterfeit brand-name goods are sold online. This is a notorious problem on Alibaba, whose CEO Jack Ma said fakes have gotten so good that it has become harder to fight piracy.

Amazon also has drawn fire. Daimler last fall filed a suit against the company, alleging that not only products sold and shipped by third-party resellers, but also products sold and shipped by Amazon had infringed IP rights.

Amazon has set up a brand registry in which more than 40,000 brands so far have enrolled.

Amazon investigates 93 percent of infringement notices filed with the registry within four hours. Amazon also offers brands access to its "Transparency" program, which can code pack labels to let consumers check their purchases against official brand information.

Crawling Toward Blockchain

Adoption of blockchain technology was low among market leaders and fast followers as of Q4 2017, with less than 20 percent acquiring and implementing blockchain or undergoing a proof of concept, 47 percent not yet adopting or considering it, and 30 percent still mulling the implications, Wang noted, citing Constellation Research survey findings.

Three reasons for low adoption:

Rapidly evolving platforms and standards. "A plethora of platforms come and go," Wang said, noting that there are 10 widely used platforms and standards, and "most organizations start on one platform and evolve into another."

Slow overall transaction times. Bitcoin rates about seven transactions per second (TPS), Ethereum 20 TPS, IBM Blockchain 1000 TPS, and Ripple 1,500 TPS. "Visa payments does about 1,700 TPS and Alibaba about 325,000 TPS," Wang observed.

Lack of internal and external expertise. "Most organizations have not been able to find significant blockchain technical resources, let alone the business resources to craft new business models," Wang remarked. The plethora of platforms and standards exacerbates the situation.

Implementing Blockchain Technology

Blockchain is a relatively new technology, so "the question is not so much whether or not it is a good fit -- but rather, whether or not the company will stand to benefit from the expenditures associated with adopting the technology in its early stages," Global Blockchain's Gouran noted.

"The criteria to best determine this would probably be how much the business is losing or spending on problems that can be fixed by blockchain technology," he said.

The biggest issue to be aware of is the hype, Gouran remarked. While blockchain is a sophisticated technology, "that doesn't mean a solution built on it is automatically sophisticated."

Then there is the legal side of things.

"Blockchain is still hot off the press as far as a lot of regulators are concerned, and while it's not necessarily illegal in and of itself, some applications of it might be," said Gouran. For example, using blockchain in healthcare could violate some of the strict HIPAA rules.

Companies planning a blockchain initiative first should get expert advice on how the technology can fit into a given business problem, as well as legal advice on how blockchain might be affected by the rules governing their business, Gouran suggested.

If it is a good fit, they can begin researching any possible solutions, but they should be prepared to begin a brand new project from scratch, "since the technology is still in its early stages and there aren't many canned solutions for every conceivable business application," Gouran said.

Potential risks with blockchain include its distributed nature, which means there will not be one central authority to guide decisions, Mindtree's Ameria warned.

"We believe the technology in and of itself will not be enough," he said. "Successful adoption requires the entire ecosystem and the business processes around it to evolve."

Richard Adhikari has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2008. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, mobile technologies, CRM, databases, software development, mainframe and mid-range computing, and application development. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including Information Week and Computerworld. He is the author of two books on client/server technology. Email Richard.




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Small and mid-sized e-commerce businesses are likely to be hit hard by the United States Federal Communications Commission's repeal of Net neutrality earlier this month.

The move will let Internet service providers block and manipulate Internet usage and discriminate against users at will, according to critics.

"Net neutrality repeal helps mostly affiliated businesses and larger enterprises at the expense of smaller firms, startups, innovators and entrepreneurs, remarked Common Cause Special Advisor Michael Copps, a former FCC commissioner.

"In e-commerce, I look for the bigger guys like Amazon and Google to dominate the market, along with ISP-affiliated businesses," he told the E-Commerce Times. "Smaller guys will have to enter into pay-and-play agreements to make any headway."

There are basically three Net neutrality models, suggested Ray Wang, principal analyst at Constellation Research, who described them using a highway metaphor:

Regular freeway, no carpool/HOV lane or FasTrak congestion payment model. That's a common understanding of Net neutrality, he said. "Everyone can access the Internet at the same speed, which can be really slow or really fast."

HOV lanes model. "One day we realize we need to give emergency vehicles and car poolers special rights, so we grant them special status over others for the public good. This is where we're now making that argument," said Wang.

FasTrak congestion payment model. "We then create situations because we have HOV lanes that some people want to pay to bypass and others want to monetize," he continued. "Suddenly, we find inequities out there."

The U.S. is about to shift from first option toward the second and third options, Wang told the E-Commerce Times.

Net neutrality repeal "will make it harder for smaller players to afford faster access and compete with the big boys unless there are guardrails set by the government," he noted. "The question is, who determines who gets to be in the HOV lane? And that's fraught with political lobbying, special interests, folks with their narratives and agendas on who's disenfranchised."

This will mean "more money is required to lobby and pass a bill and deal with new regulations," said Wang, "and more paperwork and bigger government, which is anathema to small business."

The Once Bright Future of E-Commerce SMBs

SMBs have been betting big on e-commerce, suggests a nationwide U.S. survey DHL conducted this spring.

Twenty-five percent of the 14,000 respondents to the survey expected that Q1 e-commerce sales would increase by 7-100 percent over Q1 2017 figures.

The survey was conducted through a combination of direct outreach to DHL customers and a targeted Twitter poll, DHL spokesperson Stephanie Schiff told the E-Commerce Times.

The participating DHL customers reported having to ship more than 50 percent of orders as B2C orders received online. The non-customer participants were SMBs, but all did not have an e-commerce component. Public sector organizations and national or multinational companies were not included.

"SMBs tend to get a disproportionate amount of their sales through social media promotion," and Net neutrality repeal "is likely to hit SMBs particularly hard," said Rebecca Wettemann, VP of research at Nucleus Research.

"When ISPs decide what content gets priority, they decide which social channels get prioritized or blocked as well," she told the E-Commerce Times.

Service providers "could just decide to charge different retailers different prices to deliver their content," Wettemann said. "What's the going rate for having the highest speed of service on Black Friday? There's simply no way SMBs could compete in such a bidding war."

SMBs Speak

"The worst-case scenario for a small business like mine basically goes like this: Comcast starts a wine club, and, when people search for one to join, instead of being shown Google's results first, they're shown Comcast's option," said Mark Aseltine, founder of Uncorked Ventures.

"Or Google's results and sites like my own are slowed down so much that it's easier to join Comcast's wine club," he told the E-Commerce Times. "There's not much we can do in regard to [that], but we can work on speed and branding where people would find our site fast enough and ask for our site directly."

The consequences in terms of the stifling of innovation and the lack of upside of starting an e-commerce business "are going to be huge," Aseltine predicted.

On the other hand, "e-commerce stores have far more to worry about than the cost of their bandwidth slightly increasing," observed Allen Walton, founder of Spy Guy.

"How about they focus on doubling or tripling their annual revenue instead of being up in arms over something that might not even affect them?" he suggested.

"I pay (US)$79 a month for unlimited bandwidth on Shopify. They could increase that price 10 times and I wouldn't even care," he told the E-Commerce Times.

The Net Neutrality Battlefield

Various public interest groups, including Free Press and Common Ground, have challenged the FCC's repeal of Net neutrality in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, which is expected to hear arguments in the case by the end of the year.

Thirty-six states have proposed or passed a resolution, bill or executive order supporting Net neutrality in one way or another, although some of those efforts have failed.

In California, Bill SB-822, the so-called "Net Neutrality Bill," was killed off last week.

Some state legislators, led by Miguel Santiago, chairman of the state's Communications and Conveyance Committee, eviscerated its text, leading to accusations of corruption.

"Net neutrality is a good thing," Aseltine said. "Until I hear a good argument for why it isn't, I'll support an overturn of the repeal."

Richard Adhikari has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2008. His areas of focus include cybersecurity, mobile technologies, CRM, databases, software development, mainframe and mid-range computing, and application development. He has written and edited for numerous publications, including Information Week and Computerworld. He is the author of two books on client/server technology. Email Richard.


A federal judge in Brazil ordered the suspension of products containing glyphosate until the government re-evaluates the chemical's toxicology, Reuters reported Monday, citing legal papers.

The decision prohibits the registration of new products containing the herbicide and suspends existing registrations within the next 30 days, the report said.

The ruling affects Monsanto, the maker of glyphosate-based weedkillers such as Roundup and "Roundup Ready" seeds that are genetically modified to resist the chemical. Brazil happens to be the world's largest soybean producer and exporter and plants Monsanto's herbicide-tolerant soybeans on a wide scale, Reuters noted.

"I think the judge is wrong and that the decision will be revoked somehow," Director Luiz Lourenco of agribusiness industry association Abag told the news service. "It is impossible to do agriculture without these products."

Glyphosate is the world's most popular herbicide and has been at the center of controversy since 2015, when the chemical was classified as a "probable human carcinogen" by the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer.

In the U.S., Monsanto is facing roughly 4,000 lawsuits from plaintiffs claiming that exposure to the herbicide caused them or their loved ones to develop non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The lawsuits also allege that the company suppressed scientific evidence related to the health risks of its weedkillers.

Monsanto, which was recently purchased by German pharmaceuticals giant Bayer for $62.5 billion, has adamantly defended the safety of its products.

In a statement given to Reuters, Monsanto said that glyphosate has been used for four decades in Brazil and that reviews worldwide have concluded the herbicide can be used safely. It also respects the procedures used by Anvisa, Brazil's national health authority, to ensure the chemical's safe use, the statement added.
Unlike older students, kindergartners often start the school year as cute little blank slates to their teachers.

In many cases, those teachers have no more to go on when assigning children to classes than the limited information they were able to glean from kindergarten-orientation sessions. That lack of deeper knowledge about their new pupils can lead to classroom imbalances in terms of readiness and social skills that are hard to fix as the school year progresses.

But at a handful of elementary schools in suburban Washington, kindergarten teams have developed a way to address the issue, borrowing a technique more commonly seen in middle and high schools.

Instead of assigning kindergarten pupils to permanent classrooms at the beginning of the year, some schools in Montgomery County, Md., set up a system that initially rotates children through all the kindergarten classrooms.

By the end of the first week of school, teachers say they have enough information to make class assignments based on more than obvious traits, such as gender and race. During the kindergarten switcheroo, the child-friendly name the schools have given the process, teachers see which children are reserved, as opposed to those raising their hands at each question; which ones get along well with one other, compared with friction-filled groupings; and which pupils are more independent, as opposed to those needing more adult support.

Intangible Elements

Those intangible elements are routinely considered when it comes to making class assignments in other elementary grades, because the childrens skills and personalities are better known.

Kindergarten is the only grade where teachers dont already have that deep knowledge of most of their charges, say the teachers who have invested time in this process.

The first day of kindergarten is probably the hardest day for any teacher in any grade, and we do it five times, said Heidi Grant, a kindergarten teacher at Fallsmead Elementary School here. We wouldnt do it if we didnt think it worked.

Creating a thriving classroom community is particularly important for kindergartners, who are building the foundation for future learning, said Kristen Johnson, the senior director for early-childhood-program accreditation for the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Johnson said she could not address the switcheroo concept specifically because she was not familiar with it.

But the reasons teachers have stated for using ittaking time at the beginning the year to lay the groundwork for intentional community buildingmatches what teachers should be making a priority for young children, Johnson said.

Learning for young children really comes in the form of relationships, Johnson said. Its important for children at that age to have that positive experience where they feel safe and secure and can share and can learn.

In Montgomery County, the kindergarten-rotation concept started at Fallsmead Elementary, now in its fifth year of the process. Other teachers and administrators in the 156,000-student district heard about the idea from Fallsmead, and a handful have implemented similar programs in their own schools.

Members of the Fallsmead kindergarten team say they were given the seeds of the idea from a former principal at the school.

The orientation process didnt provide enough time to get to know pupils, they said. Generally, elementary schools in the county have a kindergarten orientation in the spring, where children are brought in groups of eight to 10 and given some brief assessments while their parents fill out enrollment forms.

But not all of a schools kindergartners attend orientation; many register later or just cant make those dates. Plus, some children are too shy to do much in that atmosphere, said Grant, the kindergarten teacher at Fallsmead.

And the orientation, even for the youngsters who attend, cant always capture the sometimes-dramatic changes that occur during the handful of months before school starts.

In six months, you can be a different child educationally, said Roni Silverstein, the principal at Fallsmead.

But the rotation process involves more than just moving the children around from class to class.

The schools that have adopted the process generally use a very scripted routine at the beginning of the year. All pupils, for example, will start the day in the cafeteria, divided into groups that they will stay with during the first week. All of them learn that theyre supposed to enter the classroom and sit on a rug. Pupils will learn the same process for hanging up their backpacks, stashing their lunchboxes, and handing in their work folders.

Kindergarten Homeroom

Also, each grouping of children spends the beginning of each day with the same homeroom kindergarten teacher, and paraprofessionals and other school staff members are assigned to each group and transfer with them wherever they go.

Those elements are intended to introduce some stability and familiarity for the children, the teachers say.

The kindergarten rotation was not an instant hit with all parents, Silverstein said.

Parents were convinced this was going to psychologically harm their children, she said. And the school does take into account if there are young children who seem very reluctant to separate from a teacher.

But most children adjust to the program because they dont know that kindergarten is supposed to be any different. They end up knowing all the teachers and many more of their peers than they might otherwise, Silverstein said.

Rebekah Jacobs, the president of the Fallsmead PTA, has two children who went through the kindergarten rotation. What they explained is that this is an opportunity to think about kids in the best way. To me, it sounded like a really smart way of doing things, Jacobs said. Is it possibly a little confusing? Yes. But for the long-term benefit, I think its great.

The idea is starting to spread to other schools in the county; representatives from dozens of schools visited Fallsmead earlier this year to find out how the rotation works.

Beall Elementary, also in Montgomery County, has been conducting its own switcheroo for three years after learning about the process from Fallsmead.

Honestly, I dont think everyone bought into it initially, said Elliot Alter, the principal at Beall. Some teachers were concerned that they would lose an emotional connection with their pupils. And they were also concerned that the process would cut into instructional time.

I dont think were losing a week of instruction, Alter said. Its giving us back hours that we might have been regrouping kids for reading, for example. Under the old process of class creation, children might not have that many academic peers in the classroom, requiring shifting groups of children around for instruction.

Other than a few tears, the process seems deceptively smooth.

But it takes a lot of planning, said Allison Nelson, a kindergarten teacher at Beall.

We have literally designed flip charts with times at the top for exactly what we should be doing at exactly the same time on the same day, she said. We have spent so much time on this, but weve seen the true benefits.
To build the largest and most complete Amateur Radio community site on the Internet - a "portal" that hams think of as the first place to go for information, to exchange ideas, and be part of whats happening with ham radio on the Internet. eHam.net provides recognition and enjoyment to the people who use, contribute, and build the site. This project involves a management team of volunteers who each take a topic of interest and manage it with passion. The site will stand above all other ham radio sites by employing the latest technology and professional design/programming standards, developed by a team of community programmers who contribute their skills to the effort. The site will be something of which everyone involved can be proud to say they were a part. We welcome your comments. The eHam.net Team, Revision 07/2020.
Gerhard Stelzer, Editor-in-Chief Elektronik

The inglorious end to a two-year nail-biting game: Qualcomm has cancelled the acquisition of NXP Semiconductors after the Chinese antitrust authorities failed to approve it in time. Surprisingly, China has now extended the deadline.

In autumn 2016, Qualcomm, the mobile communications chip giant, made a $44 billion takeover bid for NXP Semiconductors of the Netherlands. Qualcomm wanted to end its relatively one-sided focus of its chip business on the smartphone market and put its business on a much broader footing by acquiring NXP. NXP Semiconductors offers a considerably larger product range, so that NXP chips can be found in a wide variety of applications. A particular strength of the Dutch lies in the automotive market, which results primarily from the acquisition of Freescale.

Qualcomm's desire to become a leading supplier in the automotive segment with an acquisition is understandable. In addition, the chip card business and the mobile phone chips fit together well. Perhaps more importantly, while Qualcomm has been at the forefront of technology in the wireless segment for years, it has done well to maintain its position. But the Californian company has recently been facing increased competition from major smartphone manufacturers. Today, Apple, Samsung, and Huawei's top devices are increasingly equipped with wireless processors from their own development and this trend is picking up speed.

For Qualcomm, this largest acquisition in the semiconductor industry to date would have been an interesting deal. It's just unfortunate that the Chinese antitrust authority SAMR let the deadline set by Qualcomm expire. The Handelsblatt reports that two days later SAMR announced that it still saw opportunities for the deal, but Qualcomm's plan had failed to address the competition concerns. The review period at the end of mid-August, however, could be extended to October 14th. In plain language, that means that the Chinese let Qualcomm "show up" again and thus unmistakably show who is the boss.

Eight out of nine competition authorities had already approved the takeover plans. Only the Chinese authority still had to approve.. Qualcommcan now take comfort in the fact that an end with horror is better than endless horror. Who knows what the SAMR would have said in the next iteration. NXP, in turn, can look forward to paying a $2 billion fee for not completing the acquisition. For Qualcomm's CEO Steve Mollenkopf, this is a severe blow. He had hoped until the last minute that the Chinese authorities would rubber-stamp the deal. Qualcomm became a pawn in the Sino-American trade dispute. Now it's about limitation of damage. The shareholders are now to be calmed down by a share buyback program worth 30 billion dollars. Does this save Mollenkopfs position?
         2017

Ahmad Mousa Jiyad

  

Iraq/ Development Consultancy and Research, Norway

         2017   7.9      3.9     .                                                          .

          .

   Deloitte                     2014 : 2017.

        2017 :    13   2018         31  2018      2017.

        :                              22                            EITI                        (       )                    .                  .

     :         .          EITI.             .          :



  

  / 



KRG Oil Export Revenues 2017 Assessed

Ahmed Mousa Jiyad

Iraq/ Development Consultancy & Research

Norway

Introduction

KRG gross oil export revenues, for 2017, stood at $7.9billion but it was left with only $3.9billion as net earnings. When the Region receives less than half of its gross oil exports revenues, this is alarming situation indicating something has been seriously wrong and, thus, should be meticulously addressed in most transparent, truthful and evidenced-based manner. Otherwise, Kurdistan Regions economy remains stranded in debt-trap through mortgaging future oil sales arrangements.

That is one of my conclusions after analyzing two half-yearly reports.

Deloitte, a known international firm, was appointed by the Regional Council for Oil and Gas Affairs (RCOGA) of the Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq (KRG) to review oil production, export, consumption and revenue for 2014 through 2017.

The company, i.e. Deloitte, produced so far two half-yearly reports for 2017 covering KRG, Oil production, export, consumption and revenue. The first report was dated 13 January 2018 and covers the period 1 January to 30 June 2017; hereinafter refer to by H1-2017. The second was dated 31 July 2018 covering the period 1 July to 31 December 2017; hereinafter refer to by H2-2017.

After thoroughly analyzing these two reports I conclude that: they adds very little qualitative or substantive improvements on previously published reports, though it took the company 22 months to produce a report for only one year; what was produced by Deloitte was far below the requirements of known transparency thresholds, e.g. EITI Standard, since too many important data and vital information were missing and not addressed; the fact that Deloitte adopts KRG formal views and uses data held and provided by MNR to produce its only one table of data, this surely tarnish Deloitte independency of reporting; finally, these reports offer absolutely no analyses of the provided data, particularly their fiscal impacts on the economy of the Region.

This study is composed of four parts: part one provides brief description of the structure and components of Deloitte reports; part two discusses the integrity, credibility, transparency of the process and compliance with EITI Standard; part three unifies and analysis all data of the two half-yearly reports and part four offers concluding remarks.*

I-Structure of the report and its parts

The half-yearly report comprises three different parts that are produced and disseminated separately.

The first part is entitled and contains Questions and Answers- Kurdistan Region  Iraq Oil & Gas Sector, hereinafter referred to in this assessment as Q&A part.

This part is the longest and provides narratives on 27 selected topics; they mostly represent the official views of KRG and it is therefore, the same text in both half-yearly reports.

The purpose of this Q&A part is to help readers better understand different sections of the report.

The second part provides data on Oil production, export, consumption and revenue for the related period. This 3 page part comprises introduction, one data schedule/table and explanatory notes on the schedule.

The third part is one page of infographic with a few illustrative charts of the data provided by the second part. However, this part has not yet produced for the second half-yearly report.

Each part was produced in English, Kurdish and Arabic.

This assessment focuses primarily on the data contents of part two (in both half-yearly reports), since such data constitutes the core of the entire purpose of the report, and to the clarification given in Q&A part.

Before going further, a few words are due.

The tri-lingual report produced concurrently contributes to disseminate information among wider readership, particularly among the local citizens (mostly Kurdish) and other Iraqis (mostly Arabs).

Also, producing the report after six months time-lag (for 2017) is, in comparative sense, by far better than the National Secretariat of Iraq EITI-IEITI, which its last annual report was related to 2015!

Moreover KRG RCOGA anticipates that data for 1 January 2018 to 31 March 2018 to be publically available in August 2018.

Timewise, all these reports are commendable achievements that deserve support and encouragement.

Having said that, on the downside there are two remarks.

First, the related contract with Deloitte was signed, in a closed ceremony, early October 2016; intended to cover years 2014 to 2017. Hence, taking 22 months to produce one year report is hardly a commendable performance. Moreover, it is not known when the reports for the remaining three years (2014:2016) would be ready.

Second and most important, a thorough reading of the data, the methodology and provided explanation generates many more serious remarks, concerns and identifies missing vital items; as discussed below.

II-The Integrity, Credibility, Transparency of the Process and Compliance with EITI Standard

The World Bank proposed and sponsored Deloitte contract in 2016 and the Bank is partially financing Iraqi EITI (Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative) activities; in 2016, Iraq was an EITI compliant country.

Yet, Deloitte two half-yearly reports make no reference at all to EITI and they, in my humble views, are not in compliance with or adhere to the requirements, process and procedures outlined by EITI Standard. Needless to say, this Standard provides the most practical, comprehensive and widely adopted guide on transparency in the extractive industry. Moreover, transparency thematic issues and modalities of the Standard are much more than just data review as covered by the two reports under discussion.

In other words, absence of such compliance to EITI Standard would seriously undermine the credibility or claim of transparency of any report.

Therefore, it is legitimate to ask why the World Bank did not compel KRG and Deloitte to fully comply with EITI Standard in preparing the reports.

The above concern was premised on the observed immature claim of transparency and biased interpretation of these half-yearly reports. For example, KRGMNR asserts Deloitte reports, demonstrate KRGs commitment to transparency and they set a precedent to further increase transparency. And by the way this intentional flawed interpretation of such reporting is not peculiar to KRG; Iraqi authorities expressed similar position when IEITI issued its first annual report and such wrong understanding generates a sense of self-satisfaction, mission accomplished and complacency that eventually led to suspending Iraq status with EITI.

When the funding for the contract was approved , the big four international audit firms (Deloitte; PwC; EY; KPMG) were called upon to submit their technical and financial proposals, and which were consequently carefully reviewed and assessed, according to the international standards of the World Bank, in order to shortlist the chosen firm based on clear criteria and key performance indicators.

Excellent! However, no information was provided on any of these clear criteria and key performance indicators, what are they, how the big four were assessed and ranked accordingly and timelines for bidding, selection and contracting activities among others. No answers!!

Obviously, that indicates an impacting lack of process transparency prior, during and after the selection. Strangely enough, the report claims, The selection of Deloitte to carry out the review, meanwhile, was also made based on a diligent procurement and tendering process

Without providing supporting evidence-based information on how the entire process was conducted, its diligence and transparency becomes questionable.

Each contract for such mission usually and preferably has, or should have, a detailed Terms of Reference-ToRs; this contract does not have any since no mention was ever made to the ToRs in any part of the reports. Why?

Absence of the ToRs for the mission probably explains the apparent confusion in the interchangeable use of different terms or concepts e.g. review audit validation as if they are the same. They are not!!

The following example exemplifies the confusion. In its welcoming statement on the first Deloitte report MNR says, KRG can demonstrate its commitment to transparency in the reporting of oil production and revenue, and the reviews by Deloitte and EY will help to set a precedent to further increase transparency and strengthen independent auditing and verification in the Kurdistan Region. (Bold added)

From technical, legal and operational perspectives these particular three terms or concepts are very different in their requirement and also implications. No doubt the big four, as reputable known international specialized entities, aware of the fundamental differences of the above three concepts; but the current two report do not demonstrate so!

The report asserts, Our review was dependent on documentation provided by all stakeholders (oil producers, refineries, oil traders, the pipeline operator, and the KRGs Ministry of Natural Resources), and the accuracy and completeness thereof. (Bold added)

Fine! But again, the report did not produce any data or basic information that was provided by any of the above mentioned stakeholders. Refers to stakeholders without identifying them, except MNR, and without providing specific data pertaining to each of them shed big cloud of doubt on the accuracy and credibility of the aggregated data!!!

Colleting, verifying and validating process requires producing all data submitted, independently, by all involved stakeholders using specified templates, among other means. For example, all IEITI annual reports used such methodology though the number of involved stakeholders is much more than those in KRG and the magnitudes of production, export, domestic consumption and revenues are many folds that of KRG.

Moreover, the report assumed and relied on the accuracy and completeness of the provided documentation! But the report did not mention whether there was any test for such accuracy and completeness! Obviously, this trust me/us orientation and approach does not serve transparency very well, if at all!



The trust me/us approach was further evidenced by using another term, i.e. misstatement. By intention or omission, the two half-yearly reports affirm repeatedly and emphatically, We did not identify any misstatements regarding Oil export and consumption and oil sales during the covered year, 2017.

Such assertion and use of misstatement is surprising and causes suspicion. The reports deal with different stakeholders operating at various chains in the petroleum sector in the region; some operating internally while others externally; some are locals while others international etc., and surely each stakeholder has its own accounting, invoicing, contracting, reporting, auditing procedures. Experience, from IEITI (and also other EITI documents and reports) annual reports, tells that reconciliation of data provided by the stakeholders comprises many, significant and otherwise, discrepancies; the ToRs for such reports decide the materiality threshold for and the obligation to explain, by evidence-based, such discrepancies.

The point here, there are many reasons for discrepancies to occurs and that is usual and expected, but they have to be identified, quantified and explained. Discrepancies are not necessarily misstatements; thus using the later term by Deloitte is ratter unfortunate since it is conceptually and methodologically inaccurate, operationally misleading and politically comforting.

Currency issue is not addressed by the report, which says, Apart from export sales and IOC bonuses, oil revenues are derived from local sales and from the sale of refined products.

The report presents the values of these oil revenues that are derived from local sales (and the valuation of swap operations ) and from the sale of refined products in USD; but it did not mention anything regarding the used exchange rates between Iraqi Dinars-ID and USD. When locally generated revenues have significance in total revenues, then the issue of exchange rate becomes important variable that needs attention and recognition. Moreover, exchange rate could be a source of discrepancies. Deloitte should cover this issue in its forthcoming, or when revising, reports.

Oil production is the core of any report, particularly when it comes to transparency in the extractive industry. Though the title of the second part of the report starts with oil production, the report does not cover oil production at all!

Moreover, the Regional Council for Oil and Gas Affairs-RCOGA, in its statement on the second Deloitte report, reiterates its commitment to the people of Kurdistan and stakeholders in the sector that the two international audit firms, Deloitte and Ernst & Young, will continue to independently review the oil and gas sector, inclusive of all the streams. (Bold added). Clearly enough all the streams covers production and the expression will continue implies ongoing covering of oil production streams; Deloitte reports did not provide such cover.

But Deloitte report says, production contributions for the individual fields is subject to additional reconciliation and verification procedures and this exercise is currently in progress. Production from the fields is the main pillar for the entire data, so how reliable and trustworthy are such provided data when reconciliation and verification of production data are not done?

Strangely enough and despite the above remarks, the report asserts, as discussed above, We did not identify any misstatements in oil export and consumption and oil sales; oil production was not covered!

On this issue the report says, It should be noted that currently Deloitte did not report on the KRGs oil production data, pending the completion of a historical oil production reconciliation for 2014, 2015 and 2016.

The above statement could be interpreted that oil production reconciliation for 2017 has been done and ready. If so, what are the compelling justifications for not disclosing them in the released two reports?

In addition to the above rather substantive remarks, there are others that tarnished the quality of Deloitte reports.



A matter that worth mentioning is related to oil sales item. In the report for the first half of 2017 it is mentioned oil sales data and the net amount received in the month by the KRG, while the corresponding item in the report for the second half refers to oil sales data and the net amount received in the period by the KRG. (Bold added). If that is an error, it must be corrected, but if it is not then it should be explained.

The reports that took 22 months to cover, partially, 2017, provides no clear work plan, its phases, timeliness, consultation process (with whom, when, about what etc) and whether the final text of either of the two half yearly reports were subjected to any sort of consultation process with or discussing the findings; or they were presented on the base of trust me/us.

The reports refer to the Regional Council for the Oil & Gas Affairs by two acronyms: (RCOGA) and (RCOG); A possible sign of inconsistency or carelessness.

Apart from the fact that most contents of Q&A part represent KRG official views, except a few relating to Deloitte, this part of the report contains a couple of referencing inaccuracies e.g. in items 11 and 13.

Finally, the report warns, No party, other than the RCOG, is entitled to rely on this report for any purpose whatsoever. In addition to such statement is clearly anti-transparency, it emphatically contravenes items 18 and 19 in the Questions and Answers- Kurdistan Region  Iraq Oil & Gas Sector part of the reports.

In conclusion and based on the above remarks I am of the opinion that KRG, RCOGA and Deloitte should consider seriously these remarks and make the necessary modification, correction, explanation, clarification and addition, among others to improve the quality, credibility, integrity and usefulness of the reports.

Based on the above remarks there is apparent doubts on the integrity and credibility of the process that need addressing by Deloitte, KRG and RCOG/A.

I will turn now to data analysis of the two reports.

III-Data Analysis and Assessment

As mentioned earlier the second part in both half-yearly reports provides data on Oil production, export, consumption and revenue for the related period. This three page part comprises introduction (one page of almost the same text in both reports, except the dates of the covered period), one schedule/table comprising data (one page) and explanatory notes on the schedule (one page).

The one and only schedule covers data relating to four main items, each has many sub-items. The main items are: Oil Exports and Consumption; Pipeline Export Sales Analysis; Trucking Export Sales Analysis and Financial Flows. The following offers analyses for these four main items.

Before proceeding further, it is useful highlighting the following:

First, H1-2017 report says, All figures in Schedule 1,  , are based on the records held by the KRG, while H2-2017 report says, All figures in Schedule 1,  , are based on the records provided by stakeholders to the KRG.

This is clearly a contradiction to what Deloitte asserts, Deloitte corresponded directly with the various stakeholders to obtain and verify the information contained in Schedule 1

Second and as mentioned earlier, the reports do not provide data on production though the title of the part of the report mentions oil production; this constitutes a major flaw;

Third, the reports do not contain analytical assessment of the covered data, I have done that hereunder;

Fourth, the two parts were not combined in a yearly 2017 report or provide the annual data in one table, so I have to do that;

Fifth, the Q&A part provides no explanation or clarification of the items covered by this part; it only lists them.

First: Oil Exports and Consumption

This item covers eight sub-items and a total with half yearly aggregated data; all data are expressed in number of barrels (bbls)

To begin with there is a methodological and coverage problem relating to item crud allocated to oil producers;

First, it is neither included in the export data nor in the consumption data. So where had these volumes gone?

Second, why this item was not mentioned in the second half-yearly report? Where there no crude allocated to the oil producers or it was reporting error? The report for the second half clarifies this, Total exports and consumption does not include: (1) crude oil and condensate allocated as compensation to producers; and (2) condensate sales by Dana Gas. These amounts have not been included in total exports and consumption on Schedule 1 as the MNR is not entitled to any of the proceeds from the sale or consumption of this crude oil / condensate. But again, that report gives no data on these two types of excluded volumes!! Also, Deloitte did not explain why it includes and quantifies this item i.e. crud allocated to oil producers in H1-2017 report and avoids that in H2-2017; is there any politics here?

Also different categorization, regarding Local sales, Sales to refineries and swap was applied in the H2-2017 report making it difficult, or meaningless, to make sub-item comparison.



On the aggregate, KRG total oil exported & consumed in 2017 was 201.85 million barrels (bbls), 55% of which was in the first half of the year while the rest in the second half. This 10 percentage points could be attributed to post-referendum in the Region of September that year and retaking of Kirkuk by federal authority.

2017 oil export occurred through pipelines and trucks totaled over 187 million bbls (94.8% of which was through pipelines). It is worth mentioning that piped export includes KRG and NOC contribution, as the reports mention, but they do not quantify both contributions. On a periodic comparison, piped oil export declined from 95.8 million bbls in first half of 2017 to 81.5 million bbls in the second half.

Second; Pipeline Export Sales Analysis

This part of the report provides data on net oil lifted by the buyers through pipeline, gross value of crude oil sold and average barrel price.

Comparing the data in this section with the corresponding data in the first section indicates discrepancies, which the report attributes to Increase (decrease) in storage at oil terminal

Volume of net oil lifted by the buyers through pipelines totaled 177.773 million bbls for the entire year. However, it declined from 95.937 million bbls in the first half to 81.836 million in the second half; a decline by 14.7%.

These volumes had gross value of $7.61 billion, with only 7.1% decline in second half of the year compared with first half; that is obviously explained by oi price improvement, as discussed next.

Average oil price increased from $41.297/b to $44.584/b in the two parts of the year respectively.

Third, Trucking Export Sales Analysis

Unlike piped oil export, trucking exports registered significant improvements for all three sub-items in second half of 2017 comparing with the first half. Volume-wise, trucked exports increased from 4.231million bbls to 5.147 million bbls in the two halves of the year. Gross value of these volumes almost doubled: increased from $108million to $205million. Similarly, average price a barrel increased from $25.452 to $39.883 in the same period.

What should be highlighted is that pipeline-truck oil price differentials for the two halves of the year declined, in favor of pipeline exports, from $15.845/b to $4.701/b. In the meantime trucking transportation costs per barrel was $10 during H2-2017.

This calls for specific research to better understanding trucking export economics; why there was such a significant price differentials, what are the main causes, who are the trucking stakeholders and was there influential political connection with or interests for individuals, groups or parties in KRG and or Turkey.

Fourth, Financial Flows

Data provided in this section is probably the most vital for understanding fiscal conditions and performance of the petroleum sector in Kurdistan Iraq.

This section contains 11 items without, as mentioned earlier, comparison, analyses and explanation, except 3 notes on data relating to H2-2017 report. However, notes provided on the other three sections of this report should be kept in mind.

To avoid possible confusion or mixing-up, I will use the same terminology used by the report as titles for the sub-items of the financial flows, but give and use in the analyses what each term could mean. But I must mention, at the outset, the number of items under this section in Schedule 1 are more, by two items, than those listed in the Q&A part; and again, no explanation was provide. Thus, this is added flaw of the report let be inconsistency or inaccuracy.

Gross value of crude oil sold (Piped and Trucked exports) USD

The report uses the above term, which implies valuation, but I will take this as gross revenues; the rationale is premised on the fact that what matters is the stream of revenues (gross and net) from exported (or sold) oil. Evidence is provided by item 10 in this section, which asserts Net cash balance received... So, why Deloitte uses such ambiguous terminology??

Also this item deals with exports, but what about revenues from oil and refined product sold and swapped locally (as mentioned in Oil Exports and Consumption addressed above)!

Gross oil export revenues for 2017 totaled little more than $7.9billion. This would give an average price of $42.338/b.

Comparing these to the corresponding average oil prices realized by SOMO of $49.185/b respectively would give significant price-differentials in favor of federally marketed oil of $6.245/b; a 14.8% price differentials represent voluminous financial losses for KRG economy, which suffers from deep fiscal crisis. Why and what for!?

Deloitte justifies these price differentials this way, In the case of KRG, a considerable portion of its oil is heavy and sour, which partly explains why it is sold at a discounted price. Competitiveness is another reason, whereby the disagreement with Baghdad and the limited exporting routes has meant that KRG had to render its oil exports more competitive in order to sell its output and generate critical funds for the Region.

Again, Deloitte conceded to KRG /MNR views without discussing the economic and financial implications of such price differentials on the local economy of the region.

Net movement in buyer account balances (excluding advance payments) USD

Probably this item deals with payment made by KRG to what it borrowed from the oil buyers outside the advanced payment arrangements. But how, what deals and which oil buyer? No answer was provided!

This payment was mounted to $634 million and cuts 8% of gross revenues; too much for debt repayment!

Moreover, Deloitte says nothing regarding the remaining balance of these debts (or estimate the balance of buyer account)!!

Interest and other charges from the buyers (USD)

This also represents payment by KRG to oil buyers in interest on debt from these buyers and other charges! These other charges were explained for the second part of the year only.

KRG paid more than $108million (almost 1.4% of its gross revenues) to oil buyers for interest and other charges.

The report mentions $13.2million in H2 2017 as interest charges and fees, but says nothing regarding such payment for the first half of the year; or the rate of interests and the balance of debt.

Payments made to oil producers by, or on behalf of the KRG (USD)

This is major item that cuts close to $1.2 billion (or 15.1%) of gross oil export revenues of the Region.

However, the report does not specify why and for what these payment were made: for cost oil, for profit oil, for previous entitlements etc. Also, which producers were paid and how much for each were not mentioned.

Payments made to third parties by, or on behalf of the KRG (USD)

Another major cut of $1.3billion (16.8% from KRG gross revenues) was paid to undisclosed Third parties; who are they? How many of them? Where are they? Why did they take such a significant chunk from region revenues?

This is no simple matter; it symbolizes utter secrecy and trivializes and makes mockery of transparency claims that are repeated throughout these reports.

Payments made against arbitration settlement (USD)

KRG paid, from its export revenues of the second half of the year, more than $518 million in connection with an arbitration settlement agreement. The report did not disclose the name of the parties to that agreement or total payable settlement; it only says The total settlement was higher than this amount and the balance was provided from other KRG revenue sources. Another evidence for lacking transparency!

Net cash balance received by the KRG for the period sales USD

In addition to the above, other amounts of $247million were deducted from this year gross revenues, leaving only $3.892billion as net cash balance received by KRG; meaning KRG received only 49.1% of gross revenues.

But KRG received $1.436billion in Additional advance payments made by buyers against future sales; thus, the Regions economy remains stranded in debt-trap by mortgaging future oil sales! Ironically, Deloitte reports and the Q & A part say nothing on these advanced payments and their specifics!

Concluding Remarks

KRG/MNR used to issue monthly reports the last of which was for October 2016. That practice was ended, paving the way for Deloitte to do the job, presumably better!

After 22 months, Deloittes report for only one year adds, if any, very little qualitative or substantive improvements on MNR previous reports.

What was offered by Deloittes reports, like those of MNR, are far below the requirements of known transparency thresholds, e.g. EITI Standard. Hence, claims of transparency by these reports were absolutely not supported by the contents of these reports; too many important data and vital information were not addressed.



Deloitte adopts KRG/MNR views and uses data held and provide by KRG/MNR to produce its only one table of data; this surely tarnish Deloitte independency of reporting.

When the Region receives less than half of its gross oil exports revenues, this is alarming situation indicating something has been seriously wrong and, thus, should be meticulously addressed in most transparent, truthful and evidenced-based manner. Otherwise, Kurdistan Regions economy remains stranded in debt-trap through mortgaging future oil sales arrangements.

* For work necessities, all references and footnotes were removed

Norway

7 August 2018
WASHINGTON, D.C., August 7, 2018 -- 400 kilometers above Earth, researchers examined waves in complex plasma under microgravity conditions and found that the microparticles behaved in nonuniform ways in the presence of varying electrical fields. They report some of the first findings from the Plasma-Kristall 4 (PK-4) experiment in Physics of Plasmas, from AIP Publishing.

PK-4 is a collaboration between the European Space Agency and the Russian State Space Corporation "Roscosmos" to investigate complex plasmas. Complex or dusty plasmas contain electrons, ions and neutral gas, as well as microparticles such as dust grains. The microparticles become highly charged in the plasma and interact strongly with each other, which can lead to liquid or even crystalline behavior within the complex plasma. The most important property of such a system is that investigations of physical phenomena can be performed on the individual (micro-) particle level allowing new insights into fluid and solid-state physics.

Gravity distorts most complex plasmas experiments on Earth, so the microgravity environment on the International Space Station enables otherwise impossible research. In February 2017, researchers from the DLR-Institute of Materials Physics in Space at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and Joint Institute for High Temperatures of the Russian Academy of Sciences observed dust density waves or visible sound waves as they moved through the complex plasma.

In the experiment, a microparticle cloud drifted in a plasma with a constant direct current and formed self-excited wave patterns. After that, the discharge polarity was reversed. Although the field strength was nearly identical for both discharge polarities, the wave patterns exhibited bifurcations: A new wave crest formed between the two old crests in the head of the microparticle cloud.

"The most interesting finding was the velocity of these waves strongly depends on the electric field, which is exciting the waves," said Mikhail Pustylnik, an author on the paper. "We expect to encounter these types of waves in astrophysical situations where you might have dust -- in a cometary tail, for example."

"Many plasma processes are also used in the semiconductor industry," Pustylnik said. Dust poses big challenges for the semiconductor industry because particles may damage a silicon wafer during manufacturing. Starting this fall, the researchers are planning additional experiments that will vary the range of electric fields by switching the polarity of the discharge.

###

The article, "Dust density waves in a dc flowing complex plasma with discharge polarity reversal," is authored by Surabhi Jaiswal, Mikhail Pustylnik, Sergey Zhdanov, Hubertus Thomas, Andrey Lipaev, Alexandr Usachev, Vladimir Molotkov, Vladimir Fortov, Markus Thoma and Oleg Novitskii. The article will appear in Physics of Plasmas on August 7, 2018. After that date, it can be accessed at http://aip.scitation.org/doi/full/10.1063/1.5040417.

ABOUT THE JOURNAL

Physics of Plasmas is devoted to the publication of original experimental and theoretical work in plasma physics, from basic plasma phenomena to astrophysical and dusty plasmas. See http://pop.aip.org.
As anyone who has experienced an annoying alternation between dry and watery eyes can confirm, tears alone aren't enough to keep the eye from drying out. A microscopically thin film of oils known as the tear film lipid layer is key to preventing the tear film from evaporating. In this month's issue of the Journal of Lipid Research, a group of Australian researchers report the structure of a key long-chain lipid in the tear film lipid layer. Their finding may be used to improve treatments for dry eye.

Although the long-chain lipids in question make up just 5% of the tear film lipid layer, they play an important role in vision. Without them, earlier studies showed, the lipid layer would resemble an oil slick atop a puddle. "This clearly wouldn't be satisfactory for you to look through," said Stephen Blanksby, a professor at the Queensland University of Technology who led the research team in this study. He saw the Langmuir trough research, carried out by others, as a prompt to determine the precise structure of the ultra-long-chain lipids of the eye.

The tear film lipid layer comes from meibum, secreted from the lower eyelid. Scientists can collect meibum samples from brave volunteers by running a small spatula gently over their lower lids, but it is difficult to obtain enough for conventional assays like NMR.

Complicating matters, the team needed to differentiate between isomers. They knew long lipid was made of two fatty acids, but not whether they were joined end-to-end or branched, a question conventional mass spectrometry couldn't answer.

Fortunately, Blanksby and colleague Todd Mitchell of the University of Wollongong have spent the last decade fine-tuning mass spectrometric techniques to characterize lipids. "We were able to bring a unique toolbox to bear," said Blanksby. "Some of these techniques may not exist outside Todd's and my laboratory."

By incorporating established approaches, such as ozonolysis, into a mass spectrometry workflow, the team determined that the most abundant of the ultra-long lipids is joined end-to-end, and pinpointed each of its double bonds. The mass spectrometers handed off the structure to chemist colleagues led by Michael Kelso, who developed a method to synthesize it.

The team is now working with industry partner Allergan, which co-funded the research with the Australian Research Council, on incorporating the new synthetic long-chain lipid as a component of drops for dry eye. While our knowledge of the lipid layer has expanded, according to Blanksby many eye drops still use mineral oil. "This type of work provides a framework to produce a product that mimics, and is based on, the actual components that are present in human tears," he said. He hopes that by creating a better match to the real tear film, blurriness and other side effects of using eye drops can be alleviated.

###

About the Journal of Lipid Research:

The Journal of Lipid Research (JLR) is the most-cited journal devoted to lipids in the world. For over 50 years, it has focused on the science of lipids in health and disease. The JLR aims to be on the forefront of the emerging areas of genomics, proteomics, and lipidomics as they relate to lipid metabolism and function. For more information about JLR, visit http://www.jlr.org.
Hospitals need to step up efforts to help sexual assault survivors get justice, say researchers

Even when sexual assault evidence kits, known as a 'rape kit' are available in hospitals, less than a third of those assaulted go through with the full procedure and release the forensic evidence to the police, reveals research published online in Emergency Medicine Journal.

Hospitals need to step up their efforts to help survivors of sexual assault secure justice in an often complex and stigmatising legal system, which contributes to a high attrition rate along the way and relatively few convictions, say the researchers.

In Canada alone, only 33 out of every 1000 cases of sexual assault are reported to the police. Only six lead to prosecution, of which three end up with a conviction.

Hospital emergency departments are often the first point of contact after a sexual assault. And the forensic evidence collected there from bodily fluids, fingernail scrapings, and DNA clothing samples (the rape kit) is essential for pursuing a prosecution in rape cases.

Yet many obstacles prevent survivors from accessing care and completing the rape kit process, say the researchers.

To find out more about the volume of cases and patterns of forensic evidence collection in hospital, the researchers drew on case registry data from the Sexual Assault and Partner Abuse Care Programme throughout 2015.

This programme is run by the emergency care department at Ottawa Hospital, Ontario, which is the only regional facility to offer rape kits.

In 2015, 406 patients from the Ottawa area were seen by the programme, nearly two thirds of whom (64.5%, 262) had been sexually assaulted.

Most (91.5%) of these cases were among women with an average age of 24, but ranging from 16 up to 80.

Drugs or alcohol had been involved in over half of the cases (53.5%). This can affect accurate recall of events, and is often used to undermine the survivor's credibility in court, the researchers point out.

A similar proportion (54.5%, 110) involved a known assailant or intimate partner. In 16 cases, several assailants had been involved. Most assaults had taken place in the victimas or assailantas home, although 1 in 20 incidents happened in student dorms.

Most sexual assault survivors (77%, 202) were eligible for a rape kit. Eligibility hinges on sampling being done within 24 hours to 12 days of the incident, depending on the type of assault.

But only 129 (64%) of those eligible completed the process and less than a third (30%, 60) subsequently handed over the forensic evidence to the police.

Young people aged between 16 and 24 were more than twice as likely to go through with the process, while those seeking care within 24 hours were also more likely to do so.

Those who didn't know their assailant, or who were unsure of their identity were more than three times as likely to release the rape kit evidence to the police, as were those who had been assaulted outdoors.

Going through with a rape kit can be invasive and potentially traumatic, and many survivors don't complete it because they are afraid of the process itself and/or going to court, say the researchers.

Sexual assault survivors need to be properly supported in emergency care departments, preferably by a dedicated sexual assault and domestic violence team, to help quell any fears they have and improve uptake of forensic evidence collection, they suggest.

"[Our] findings highlight a high case volume of sexual assault patients and describe hospital-based attrition points before entering the justice system," write the researchers. Ensuring that [emergency departments] are adequately equipped to provide comprehensive care to sexual assault survivors is a clinical imperative."

They add: "Achieving just outcomes is of critical importance."

###

Peer reviewed? Yes

Type of evidence: Registry data; observational

Subjects: People
Palo Alto, CA-- New research, led by former Carnegie postdoctoral fellow Summer Praetorius, shows that changes in the heat flow of the northern Pacific Ocean may have a larger effect on the Arctic climate than previously thought. The findings are published in the August 7, 2018, issue of Nature Communications.

The Arctic is experiencing larger and more rapid increases in temperature from global warming more than any other region, with sea-ice declining faster than predicted. This effect, known as Arctic amplification, is a well-established response that involves many positive feedback mechanisms in polar regions. Q7 What has not been well understood is how sea-surface temperature patterns and oceanic heat flow from Earth's different regions, including the temperate latitudes, affect these polar feedbacks. This new research suggests that the importance of changes occurring in the Pacific may have a stronger impact on Arctic climate than previously recognized.

Paleoclimate records show that climate change in the Arctic can be very large and happen very rapidly. During the last deglaciation, as the planet was starting to warm from rising greenhouse gases, there were two episodes of accelerated warming in the Arctic--with temperatures increasing by 15C (27F) in Greenland over the course of decades. Both events were accompanied by rapid warming in the mid-latitude North Pacific and North Atlantic oceans.

Using these past changes as motivation for the current study, the research team* modeled a series of ocean-to-atmosphere heat flow scenarios for the North Pacific and the North Atlantic. They used the National Center for Atmospheric Research's Community Earth System Model (CESM), to assess the impacts to the Arctic's surface temperature and climate feedbacks.

Praetorius, who was at Carnegie at the time of the research and is now with the USGS in Menlo Park, CA explained: "Since there appeared to be coupling between abrupt Arctic temperature changes and sea surface temperature changes in both the North Atlantic and North Pacific in the past, we thought it was important to untangle how each region may affect the Arctic differently in order to provide insight into recent and future Arctic changes."

The researchers found that both cooling and warming anomalies in the North Pacific resulted in greater global and Arctic surface air temperature anomalies than the same perturbations modeled for the North Atlantic. Until now, this sensitivity had been underappreciated.

The scientists looked at several mechanisms that could be causing the changes and found that the strong global and Arctic changes depended on the magnitude of water vapor transfer from the mid-latitude oceans to the Arctic. When warm moist air is carried poleward towards the Arctic, it can lead to more low-lying clouds that act like a blanket, trapping warmth near the surface. The poleward movement of heat and moisture drive the Arctic's sea-ice retreat and low-cloud formation, amplifying Arctic warming.

The so-called ice-albedo feedback causes retreating ice and snow to lead to ever greater warming through increasing absorption of solar energy on darker surfaces.

In very recent years, the Arctic has experienced an even greater acceleration in warming. The authors note that the unusually warm ocean temperatures in the Northeast Pacific paralleled the uptick in Arctic warming, possibly signaling a stronger link between these regions than generally recognized.

"While this is a highly idealized study, our results suggest that changes in the Pacific Ocean may have a larger influence on the climate system than generally recognized," remarked Carnegie coauthor Ken Caldeira.

###

* Co-authors are Summer Praetorius, USGS, Menlo Park, CA; Maria Rugenstein, Institute for Atmospheric and Climate Science, Zurich; and Geeta Persad and Ken Caldeira of Carnegie's Department of Global Ecology, Stanford, CA.

This work was supported by the Innovative Climate and Energy Research and the Carnegie Institution fir Science endowment.

The Carnegie Institution for Science is a private, nonprofit organization headquartered in Washington, D.C., with six research departments throughout the U.S. Since its founding in 1902, the Carnegie Institution has been a pioneering force in basic scientific research. Carnegie scientists are leaders in plant biology, developmental biology, astronomy, materials science, global ecology, and Earth and planetary science.
Optimal timing to reduce mortality after hip surgery in medically stable older patients is on the day of admission or the following day, according to a large study published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal) http://www.cmaj.ca/lookup/doi/10.1503/cmaj.171512

In Canada, about 30 000 older adults are admitted to hospital each year with hip fracture. They are at increased risk of death, with about 5% of women and 10% of men dying within 30 days. Canadian Health Ministers have set 48 hours from admission as a standard for 90% of hip fracture surgeries. However, the appropriate timing of hip fracture surgery remains a matter of debate, with some research indicating an optimal window of 24 hours.

"Our study was concerned with effects of possible changes in policy for the timing of surgery on mortality in the population of patients with hip fracture in Canada," says lead author, Prof. Boris Sobolev, School of Population and Public Health, the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC.

Researchers from Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States analyzed data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information on nearly 140 000 patients aged 65 years or older who had surgery for a first-time hip fracture at 144 hospitals in Canada (38 teaching and 106 community hospitals). The majority (74%) were women and almost half were older than 85 years.

The authors asked how postoperative mortality would change if the same patient population were to undergo surgery on the day of admission, on inpatient day 2, day 3, or after day 3, as would be done in a randomized trial. Previous studies had, in contrast, compared mortality among patients with various observed times to surgery.

The authors project an additional 11 deaths for every 1000 hip fracture surgeries if all surgeries in medically stable patients were done after inpatient day 3 instead of on admission day.

"Our findings allow us to infer a critical point for the timing of hip fracture repair. We suggest that clinicians, administrators, and policy-makers 'not let the sun set twice' on medically stable older adults before their hip fracture repair," says Dr. Pierre Guy, an orthopedic surgeon and a principal investigator in this study.

"We estimate that 16.5% of in-hospital deaths currently occurring in patients delayed for more than two days are avoidable by adopting the 'don't let the sun set twice' policy for hip fracture patients," he says.

The "two sunsets" recommendation is stricter than the current 48-hour standard and places the emphasis of managerial efforts on ensuring timely access to the operating room for patients whose surgery might be delayed due to late admission or hospital transfer.

###

Visual abstract: http://www.cmaj.ca/lookup/suppl/doi:10.1503/cmaj.171512/-/DC2

The study was conducted by researchers from University of British Columbia, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba; McGill University, Montreal, Quebec; University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta; University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario; Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia; Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute; King's College London, London, United Kingdom; and William Beaumont Army Medical Center, El Paso, Texas, United States.

It was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).

"Mortality effects of timing alternatives for hip fracture surgery" is published August 7, 2018.

#DontLetTheSunSetTwice
First comprehensive analytical datasets of copper-based museum artifacts shed new light on provenance and production of Egyptian metal objects

Amsterdam, August 7, 2018

Two new studies, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, offer the first comprehensive analytical datasets of Protodynastic to Old Kingdom Egyptian copper-based artifacts (c. 3rd millennium BC), analyzing the provenance of Egyptian copper. As elaborated in a methodological comment, the studies constitute an important step forward in current knowledge on copper provenance and the subsequent economic, social and cultural insights into ancient Egypt.

Advancements in scientific analyses have allowed archaeologists to reconstruct the prehistoric trade of metals around the Mediterranean in remarkable detail. However, there was a notable gap in Egypt, one of the most important ancient civilizations, due to the difficulties in accessing Egyptian metal artifacts for analysis. Two teams of researchers have overcome this challenge by using collections of Egyptian objects held in Europe, providing the first glimpse of how Egyptians sourced their metals, encouraging further research in the field.

The first study by Frederik W. Rademakers, Georges Verly, Luc Delvaux and Patrick Degryse, based on artifacts from the Royal Museums of Art and History (RMAH) in Brussels, suggests predominant reliance on relatively local ore, from the Eastern Desert and Sinai Peninsula. The study carried out lead isotope and chemical analyses on a total of 40 metal samples and seven ore samples dating from the Predynastic, Protodynastic and Old Kingdom Periods. The results suggest signi?cant developments in smelting technology that may have been adapted to di?erent ore types.

These findings are based on a very particular segment of the ancient Egyptian metal economy (namely funerary consumption) and thus only reveal the tip of the iceberg, said Frederik W. Rademakers, PhD, Earth and Environmental Sciences, KU Leuven in Belgium. The underlying organization of early supply networks, clearly reliant on a variety of mining and production zones, and the development of copper production technology are only slowly revealed through ongoing research.

Archaeometallurgist Georges Verly, Royal Museums of Art and History in Brussels, added, We integrated field excavation with technology and provenance studies of these museum artifacts. We aim to understand how these objects were made and used within their particular ancient contexts, with arsenical copper alloys being a specific point of interest for these earliest periods.

The second study from four Czech institutions, led by PhD candidates Jiri Kmosek (University of Pardubice) and Martin Odler (Charles University, Prague), investigates Egyptian copper-based artifacts from the Egyptian Museum of Leipzig University in Germany, found at the sites of Abusir, Abydos and Giza. The 22 artifacts show similar production technology, but diverse origins of the metal, including an Early Dynastic Egyptian object from Abusir, high nickel metal in which is consistent with ores and artifacts from Early Bronze Age Anatolia, in present-day Turkey.

Lead isotopes showed us where the ore was most probably coming from, said archaeometallurgist Jiri Kmosek. The results were quite unexpected, added Egyptologist Martin Odler. The study confirms that special metals had circulated around the Ancient Near East earlier than previously thought.

Finally, in a methodological comment responding to the two studies, Prof. Erez Ben-Yosef, PhD, based at the J. M. Alkow Department of Archaeology and Ancient Near Eastern Cultures, Tel Aviv University, Israel, indicates that despite the similar context of the artifacts, all from funerary sites, these new studies exemplify the great potential of analytical data to shed new light on various topics related to ancient Egyptian society, and encourage future research. The commentary highlights the importance of maintaining curated, shared, and constantly updated databases to the progress of provenance research.

These studies constitute important steps forward in our understanding of early Egyptian metallurgy and raw materials procurement strategies. These and future studies can benefit from a modular presentation of interpretational insights that takes into account differences in the insights robustness and susceptibility to change as more data become available, Prof. Ben-Yosef concluded.

###

Notes for editors

The articles are:

"Copper for the afterlife in Predynastic to Old Kingdom Egypt: Provenance characterization by chemical and lead isotope analysis (RMAH collection, Belgium)," by Frederik W. Rademakers, Georges Verly, Luc Delvaux, Patrick Degryse (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jas.2018.04.005).

Journalists who wish to interview the study authors should contact Dr. Frederik Rademakers, at frederik.rademakers@kuleuven.be or +32 478 472 427, or Georges Verly at g.verly@kmkg-mrah.be or +32 485 637 102.

"Invisible connections. Early Dynastic and Old Kingdom Egyptian metalwork in the Egyptian Museum of Leipzig University," by Jiri Kmosek, Martin Odler, Marek Fikrle, Yulia V. Kochergina (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jas.2018.04.004).

Journalists who wish to interview the study authors should contact Martin Odler, at martin.odler@ff.cuni.cz or +420 776 791 345.

"Provenancing Egyptian metals: A methodological comment," by Erez Ben-Yosef (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jas.2018.06.001).

Journalists who wish to interview the study author should contact Prof. Erez Ben-Yosef, at ebenyose@post.tau.ac.il or +972-3-6406055.

The articles appear in Journal of Archaeological Science, (August, 2018), published by Elsevier.

Copies of this paper are available to credentialed journalists upon request; please contact Marina Spasov at newsroom@elsevier.com.

About Journal of Archaeological Science

The Journal of Archaeological Science is aimed at archaeologists and scientists with particular interests in advancing the development and application of scientific techniques and methodologies to all areas of archaeology. This established monthly journal publishes focus articles, original research papers and major review articles, of wide archaeological significance. The journal provides an international forum for archaeologists and scientists from widely different scientific backgrounds who share a common interest in developing and applying scientific methods to inform major debates through improving the quality and reliability of scientific information derived from archaeological research. http://www.journals.elsevier.com/journal-of-archaeological-science

About Elsevier Elsevier is a global information analytics business that helps institutions and professionals advance healthcare, open science and improve performance for the benefit of humanity. Elsevier provides digital solutions and tools in the areas of strategic research management, R&D performance, clinical decision support and professional education, including ScienceDirect, Scopus, SciVal, ClinicalKey and Sherpath. Elsevier publishes over 2,500 digitized journals, including The Lancet and Cell, more than 38,000 e-book titles and many iconic reference works, including Gray's Anatomy. Elsevier is part of RELX Group, a global provider of information and analytics for professionals and business customers across industries. http://www.elsevier.com

Media contact

Marina Spasov, Global Communications

Elsevier

newsroom@elsevier.com
New insight on the origins and global spread of two classes of the hepatitis B virus likely reflect the impact of prehistoric and more recent human migrations and other activities on their evolution

Researchers have provided new insight on the geographical origins and global spread of two classes of the hepatitis B virus (HBV), according to a study in eLife.

The findings identify the HBV genotypes D and A (HBV-D and HBV-A) as having originated in the Middle East and North Africa. They also reveal considerable differences in the global dissemination patterns of these genotypes, adding to our understanding of both the historic and prehistoric spread of one of the world's largest viral pandemics.

HBV, the main cause of liver disease, is a global public health concern with an estimated 257 million people living with the infection, according to figures from the World Health Organization*. The virus is classified into nine genotypes (A-I). HBV-A and HBV-D are present around the globe, with A prevailing in Europe and Africa and D in Europe and the Middle East.

"The epidemiological history of HBV-D and HBV-A remains unclear due to a lack of relevant studies," says lead author Evangelia-Georgia Kostaki, PhD Candidate in Molecular Epidemiology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece. "In order to uncover more of this detail, we wanted to establish how HBV was disseminated across different geographic regions."

To do this, the team used 916 HBV-D and 493 HBV-A full-genome sequences to reconstruct these genotypes' global evolutionary development and diversification, known as their phylogeny, and analyse their levels of regional clustering. They revealed that HBV-D's geographical origin was in North Africa and the Middle East, although they were unable to infer the exact origin accurately from the available data. Their analysis also suggests the origin of HBV-A is close to Africa and Europe, and likely in the Middle East and Central Asia.

"Major dispersal pathways for HBV-D were complex, including different geographic regions," explains senior author Dimitrios Paraskevis, Assistant Professor of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. "We found low levels of HBV-D transmission occurred locally in North Africa and the Middle East, suggesting a high amount of movement among populations infected with HBV in these areas. This is in line with our previous observations about the central role of these regions as hubs for human expansion, due to the early development of agriculture and the resulting spread and genetic shuffling of HBV-D."**

Paraskevis adds that after HBV-A's initial spread in Central Africa, this genotype followed two distinct pathways: one to eastern and southern Africa, and another to sub-Saharan and western Africa. Spillovers later led to major regional transmissions towards Brazil, Haiti and the Indian subcontinent, most likely as a result of the slave trade.

Together, these results highlight considerable differences in the global dissemination patterns of HBV-D and HBV-A, as well as different levels of their regional clustering, which likely reflect the impact of prehistoric and more recent human migrations and other activities on the evolution of these HBV genotypes.

###

References

The paper 'Unravelling the history of hepatitis B virus genotypes A and D infection using a full-genome phylogenetic and phylogeographic approach' can be freely accessed online at https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.36709. Contents, including text, figures and data, are free to reuse under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Along with Evangelia-Georgia Kostaki and Dimitrios Paraskevis, this research was carried out by Timokratis Karamitros, Garyfallia Stefanou, Konstantinos Angelis and Angelos Hatzakis at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, in collaboration with Ioannis Mamais from the European University of Cyprus and Anna Kramvis from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.

*http://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-b

**Dating the origin and dispersal of hepatitis B virus infection in humans and primates

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Emily Packer, Senior Press Officer

eLife

e.packer@elifesciences.org

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A medical program developed by clinicians at one of Australia's largest hospitals, the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital (RBWH), is successfully keeping elderly aged care residents out of hospital and reducing demand on emergency departments.

Dual Emergency and Palliative Care Staff Specialist at the RBWH, Dr Bill Lukin, evaluated the 'Hospital in the Nursing Home program and found the number of emergency department visits reduced significantly.

"The program led to an average 17 per cent decrease in aged care patients presenting to the RBWH Emergency Department, a 36 per cent drop in hospital admissions per emergency presentation and an overall 47 per cent decrease in hospital admissions," he said.

"That's about one ward of elderly people each month who are no longer being admitted to hospital.

"We also found the program is cost effective, delivering Royal Brisbane about AU$8 million a year in economic benefits after costs or a return of $17 for every $1 invested.

"Most importantly, getting treatment at home is almost always better for an elderly patient."

Backed by a $290,000 grant from the Emergency Medicine Foundation of Australasia (EMF), funded by Queensland Health, Dr Lukin led a research team to evaluate the impacts of the program, which was rolled out across aged care facilities caring for more than 2000 elderly residents.

Queensland Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Steven Miles said many elderly patients were sent to the emergency department by aged care homes for relatively routine procedures such as changing catheters, wound care or providing blood transfusions.

"The beauty of the Hospital in the Nursing Home program is it enables these more common procedures to be performed in the aged care facilities.

"Through the program, GPs and nursing staff at aged care facilities are provided with education and support to further manage the acute care of their residents, including having access to a contact person in the ED for advice.

"This is an excellent example of state-run and privately-run facilities working together to improve the health and well being of elderly Queenslanders."

In Brisbane, the program was rolled out across aged care facilities caring for more than 2000 elderly residents.

EMF Director Dr Anthony Bell said Dr Lukin's research would enable vital emergency medical resources to be allocated more effectively.

"Dr Lukin's research clearly shows that extra training and support can enable elderly Australians to access high-quality healthcare services without needing to leave their homes," he said.

"When emergency departments, hospitals and community health providers work together providing the best possible care for older Australians in their home, everyone benefits.

"Emergency and hospital beds are freed up and older patients are not unnecessarily coming into an unfamiliar and often stressful environment."

An economic evaluation of the program was recently published in the journal, PLoS ONE.

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Dr Lukin is also a Clinical Associate Lecturer at the School of Medicine, The University of Queensland.
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- The construction and operation of all kinds of buildings uses vast amounts of energy and natural resources. Researchers around the world have therefore been seeking ways to make buildings more efficient and less dependent on emissions-intensive materials.

Now, a project developed through an MIT class has come up with a highly energy-efficient design for a large community building that uses one of the world's oldest construction materials. For this structure, called "the Longhouse," massive timbers made of conventional lumber would be laminated together like a kind of supersized plywood.

The design will be presented this October at the Maine Mass Timber Conference, which is dedicated to exploring new uses of this material, which can be used to build safe, sound high-rise buildings, if building codes permit them.

John Klein, a research scientist in MIT's architecture department who taught a workshop called Mass Timber Design that came up with the new design, explains that "in North America, we have an abundance of forest resources, and a lot of it is overgrown. There's an effort to find ways to use forest products sustainably, and the forests are actively undergoing thinning processes to prevent forest fires and beetle infestations."

People tend to think of wood as a suitable material for structures just a few stories high, but not for larger structures, Klein says. But already some builders are beginning to use mass timber products (a term that basically applies to any wood products much larger than conventional lumber) for bigger structures, including medium-rise buildings of up to 20 stories. Even taller buildings should ultimately be practical with this technology, he says. One of the largest mass timber buildings in the U.S. is the new 82,000-square-foot John W. Olver Design Building at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

One of the first questions people raise when they hear of such construction has to do with fire. Can such tall wooden structures really be safe? In fact, Klein says, tests have demonstrated that mass timber structures can resist fire as well or better than steel. That's because wood exposed to fire naturally produces a layer of char, which is highly insulating and can protect the bulk of the wood for more than two hours. Steel, in contrast, can fail suddenly when heat softens it and causes it to buckle.

Klein explains that this natural fire resistance makes sense when you think about dropping a lit match onto a pile of wood shavings, versus dropping it onto a log. The shavings will burst into flames, but on the log a match will simply sputter out. The greater the bulk of the wood, the better it resists ignition.

The structure designed by the class uses massive beams made from layers of wood veneers laminated together, a process known as laminated veneer lumber (LVL), made into panels 50 feet long, 10 feet wide, and more than 6 inches thick These are cut to size and used to make a series of large arches, 40 feet tall to the central peak and spanning 50 feet across, made of sections with a triangular cross-section to add structural strength. A series of these arches is assembled to create a large enclosed space with no need for internal structural supports. The pleated design of the roof is designed to accommodate solar panels and windows for natural lighting and passive solar heating.

"The structural depth achieved by building up the triangular section helps us achieve the clear span desired for the communal space, all while lending a visual language on both the interior and the exterior of the structure," says Demi Fang, an MIT architecture graduate student who was part of the design team. "Each arch tapers and widens along its length, because not every point along the arch will be subject to the same magnitude of forces, and this varying cross-section depth both expresses structural performance while encouraging materials savings," she says.

The arches would be factory-built in sections, and then bolted together on site to make the complete building. Because the building would be largely prefabricated, the actual on-site construction process would be greatly streamlined, Klein says.

"The Longhouse is a multifunctional building, designed to accommodate a range of event scenarios from co-working, exercise classes, social mixers, exhibitions, dinner gatherings and lectures," Klein says, adding that it builds on a long tradition of such communal structures in cultures around the world.

Whereas the production of concrete, used in most of the world's large buildings, involves large releases of greenhouse gases from the baking of limestone, construction using mass timber has the opposite effect, Klein says. While concrete adds to the world's burden of greenhouse gases, timber actually lessens it, because the carbon removed from the air while trees grow is essentially sequestered for as long as the building lasts. "The building is a carbon sink," he says.

One obstacle to greater use of mass timber for large structures is in current U.S. building codes, Klein says, which limit the use of structural wood to residential buildings up to five stories, or commercial buildings up to six stories. But recent construction of much taller timber buildings in Europe, Australia, and Canada -- including an 18-story timber building in British Columbia -- should help to establish such buildings' safety and lead to the needed code changes, he says.

The Longhouse design was developed by a cross-disciplinary team in 4.S13 (Mass Timber Design), a design workshop in MIT's architecture department that explores the future of sustainable buildings. The team included John Fechtel, Paul Short, Demi Fang, Andrew Brose, Hyerin Lee, and Alexandre Beaudouin-Mackay. It was supported by the Department of Architecture, BuroHappold Engineering and Nova Concepts.

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ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND:

MIT Mass Timber Design | Longhouse (Video): https://vimeo.com/275865964
Is it possible to grow cereal crops without having to rely on energy-requiring commercial fertilizers? In a new study publishing August 7 in the open-access journal PLOS Biology, researchers describe a newly identified corn variety which acquires nitrogen -- an essential nutrient for plants -- by feeding its sugars to beneficial bacteria, which can in turn take up nitrogen from the air and pass it back to the plant in a usable form. The variety of corn was initially observed in the 1980s by Howard-Yana Shapiro, now Chief Agricultural Officer at Mars, Incorporated, in a nitrogen-poor field near Oaxaca, Mexico. With the emergence of metagenomics in the mid-2000s, Mars, Incorporated and the University of California, Davis, partnered with the local indigenous community to investigate the corn. The research team was led by Alan Bennett and Allen van Deynze at UC Davis.

The study describes the unusual corn variety, which obtains 29 to 82 percent of its nitrogen from the air, rather than through fertilizers. The plant produces a sugary 'goo' that oozes from aerial roots that grow from above the ground, and which attracts bacteria that can transform nitrogen from the air into a form that the plant can use. If this trait could be bred into conventional varieties of corn, it may reduce the need for added fertilizer and increase corn production in regions with poor soils.

Beans and other legumes have established beneficial relationships with communities of bacteria that provide them with nitrogen, but corn and other cereal crops traditionally lack these relationships. The commercial fertilizers required to grow corn come from fossil fuels, and their energy-intensive production uses an estimated 1 to 2 percent of the global energy supply. Scientists have been eager to devise a way for corn to take advantage of these nitrogen-producing communities. Prof. Bennett and his colleagues are interested to see whether other cereals, such as sorghum, can also use their aerial roots for a similar function.

"The idea that isolated local varieties of maize might associate with nitrogen-fixing bacteria is not new, but it has been difficult to identify such a variety and demonstrate that this nitrogen-fixing association actually contributes to nitrogen nutrition of the plant," says Prof. Bennett. "Our interdisciplinary research team has been working on this for nearly a decade."

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Peer-reviewed/ Experimental Study/ Plants

In your coverage please use this URL to provide access to the freely available article in PLOS Biology: http://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.2006352

Citation: Van Deynze A, Zamora P, Delaux P-M, Heitmann C, Jayaraman D, Rajasekar S, et al. (2018) Nitrogen fixation in a landrace of maize is supported by a mucilage-associated diazotrophic microbiota. PLoS Biol 16(8): e2006352. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.2006352

Image Caption: Sierra Mixe corn variety found in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Image Credit: Alan B. Bennett, abbennett@ucdavis.edu

Funding: Mars, Incorporated http://www.mars.com/global. The research was funded by an unrestricted gift and a grant to ABB. The funder had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript. BioN2, Incorporated none. The research was funded by grants to ABB from BioN2, Incorporated. The funder had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript. UC Mexus. Preliminary research was supported by a Dissertation Research Grant to KS. The funder had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.

Competing Interests: Howard-Yana Shapiro is affiliated with Mars, Incorporated, one of the research sponsors. Author Cristobal Heitmann was unable to confirm authorship or contributions himself, and this was carried out collectively by the other co-authors.
There's a literal disturbance in the force that alters what physicists have long thought of as a characteristic of superconductivity, according to Rice University scientists.

Rice physicists Pengcheng Dai and Andriy Nevidomskyy and their colleagues used simulations and neutron scattering experiments that show the atomic structure of materials to reveal tiny distortions of the crystal lattice in a so-called iron pnictide compound of sodium, iron, nickel and arsenic.

These local distortions were observed among the otherwise symmetrical atomic order in the material at ultracold temperatures near the point of optimal superconductivity. They indicate researchers may have some wiggle room as they work to increase the temperature at which iron pnictides become superconductors.

The discovery reported this week in Nature Communications is the result of nearly two years of work by the Rice team and collaborators in the U.S., Germany and China.

Dai and Nevidomskyy, both members of the Rice Center for Quantum Materials (RCQM), are interested in the fundamental processes that give rise to novel collective phenomena like superconductivity, which allows materials to transmit electrical current with no resistance.

Scientists originally found superconductivity at ultracold temperatures that let atoms cooperate in ways that aren't possible at room temperature. Even known "high-temperature" superconductors top out at 134 Kelvin at ambient pressure, equivalent to minus 218 degrees Fahrenheit.

So if there's any hope for widespread practical use of superconductivity, scientists have to find loopholes in the basic physics of how atoms and their constituents behave under a variety of conditions.

That is what the Rice researchers have done with the iron pnictide, an "unconventional superconductor" of sodium, iron and arsenic, especially when doped with nickel.

To make any material superconductive, it must be cooled. That sends it through three transitions: First, a structural phase transition that changes the lattice; second, a magnetic transition that appears to turn paramagnetic materials to antiferromagnets in which the atoms' spins align in alternate directions; and third, the transition to superconductivity. Sometimes the first and second phases are nearly simultaneous, depending on the material.

In most unconventional superconductors, each stage is critical to the next as electrons in the system begin to bind together in Cooper pairs, reaching peak correlation at a quantum critical point, the point at which magnetic order is suppressed and superconductivity appears.

But in the pnictide superconductor, the researchers found the first transition is a little fuzzy, as some of the lattice took on a property known as a nematic phase. Nematic is drawn from the Greek word for "thread-like" and is akin to the physics of liquid crystals that align in reaction to an outside force.

The key to the material's superconductivity seems to lie within a subtle property that is unique to iron pnictides: a structural transition in its crystal lattice, the ordered arrangement of its atoms, from tetragonal to orthorhombic. In a tetragonal crystal, the atoms are arranged like cubes that have been stretched in one direction. An orthorhombic structure is shaped like a brick.

Sodium-iron-arsenic pnictide crystals are known to be tetragonal until cooled to a transition temperature that forces the lattice to become orthorhombic, a step toward superconductivity that appears at lower temperatures. But the Rice researchers were surprised to see anomalous orthorhombic regions well above that structural transition temperature. This occurred in samples that were minimally doped with nickel and persisted when the materials were over-doped, they reported.

"In the tetragonal phase, the (square) A and B directions of the lattice are absolutely equal," said Dai, who carried out neutron scattering experiments to characterize the material at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the National Institute of Standards and Technology Center for Neutron Research and the Research Neutron Source at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Center.

"When you cool it down, it initially becomes orthorhombic, meaning the lattice spontaneously collapses in one axis, and yet there's still no magnetic order. We found that by very precisely measuring this lattice parameter and its temperature dependence distortion, we were able to tell how the lattice changes as a function of temperature in the paramagnetic tetragonal regime."

They were surprised to see pockets of a superconducting nematic phase skewing the lattice towards the orthorhombic form even above the first transition.

"The whole paper suggests there are local distortions that appear at a temperature at which the system, in principle, should be tetragonal," Dai said. "These local distortions not only change as a function of temperature but actually 'know' about superconductivity. Then, their temperature dependence changes at optimum superconductivity, which suggests the system has a nematic quantum critical point, when local nematic phases are suppressed.

"Basically, it tells you this nematic order is competing with superconductivity itself," he said. "But then it suggests the nematic fluctuation may also help superconductivity, because it changes temperature dependence around optimum doping."

Being able to manipulate that point of optimum doping may give researchers better ability to design materials with novel and predictable properties.

"The electronic nematic fluctuations grow very large in the vicinity of the quantum critical point, and they get pinned by local crystal imperfections and impurities, manifesting themselves in the local distortions that we measure," said Nevidomskyy, who led the theoretical side of the investigation. "The most intriguing aspect is that superconductivity is strongest when this happens, suggesting that these nematic fluctuations are instrumental in its formation."

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Co-lead authors of the paper are Rice graduate student Weiyi Wang and Yu Song, a former RCQM postdoctoral fellow in quantum materials at Rice and now a postdoctoral scholar at the University of California, Berkeley. Co-authors are graduate student Yu Li of Rice; Chongde Cao, a former visiting research scholar at Rice and now a professor at Northwestern Polytechnic University in Fremont, Calif.; Kuo-Feng Tseng and Thomas Keller of the Max Planck Institute; L.W. Harriger of the National Institute of Standards and Technology; Wei Tian and Songxue Chi of Oak Ridge National Laboratory; and Rong Yu of Renmin University, Beijing, China. Dai is a professor of physics and astronomy. Nevidomskyy is an associate professor of physics and astronomy.

The research was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, the Robert A. Welch Foundation, the National Science Foundation, the National Science Foundation of China, the National Key Research and Development Program of China, the Shenzhen Science and Technology Program and the Shaanxi International Cooperation Program.

Read the open-access paper at http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-018-05529-2

This news release can be found online at http://news.rice.edu/2018/08/07/a-superconductor-story-with-a-twist/

Follow Rice News and Media Relations via Twitter @RiceUNews

Related materials:

Pengcheng Dai Group: https://pdai.phys.rice.edu

Andriy Nevidomskyy bio: http://rcqm.rice.edu/researchers/andriy-nevidomskyy/

Rice Department of Physics and Astronomy: https://physics.rice.edu

Wiess School of Natural Sciences: https://naturalsciences.rice.edu

Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of Architecture, Business, Continuing Studies, Engineering, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. With 3,970 undergraduates and 2,934 graduate students, Rice's undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is just under 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for lots of race/class interaction and No. 2 for quality of life by the Princeton Review. Rice is also rated as a best value among private universities by Kiplinger's Personal Finance. To read "What they're saying about Rice," go to http://tinyurl.com/RiceUniversityoverview.
SMU Office of Research & Tech Transfer - A new study from researchers at Singapore Management University (SMU) has identified three crucial factors that influence the likelihood of a case being settled through mediation.

According to the study, to be published in the Spring 2018 issue of the Harvard Negotiation Law Review, the courts should consider the timing of referral, the stage of litigation and the level of contentiousness between disputants when deciding whether or not to refer civil disputes to mediation.

The first of its kind in Singapore, the study, titled 'How Should the Courts Know Whether a Dispute is Ready and Suitable for Mediation? An Empirical Analysis of the Singapore Courts' Referral of Civil Disputes to Mediation', was led by Assistant Professors Dorcas Quek Anderson and Eunice Chua of the SMU School of Law and funded by the Singapore Judicial College. The research team also included Ms Ngo Tra My of the National University of Singapore.

With mediation becoming an increasingly accepted and popular alternative to litigation, judges and judicial officers in Singapore regularly assess the readiness and suitability of disputes for mediation before encouraging lawyers and their clients to consider the process. Yet, there is a lack of consensus across the globe on the 'right' timing or stage in a case to attempt mediation, as well as on what factors contribute to successful mediation outcomes.

To address these questions in an empirical fashion, the researchers performed a rigorous statistical analysis on data from electronic records of civil cases in Singapore, as well as on survey data collected by the Singapore Mediation Centre.

They found that the time of referral, the stage of the case at referral and the level of contentiousness between the disputants had a collective impact on the likelihood of settlement of a dispute at mediation. Delaying the time of referral of a case to mediation by one month results in a three percent decline in the likelihood of settlement. The stage of litigation matters as well. Cases referred to mediation at an earlier stage - at the close of pleadings - were more likely to be settled than cases that had already advanced to the interlocutory or pre-trial stage. Finally, a higher level of contentiousness between disputants, as measured by the number of contested pre-trial applications, was also associated with a drop in the likelihood of settlement.

Other factors that affect the success of mediation include a lower quantum of the claim, as well as features of the mediation process itself, such as the time taken to complete the mediation and whether the mediator is legally trained, the study found.

These findings suggest that the courts should not focus solely on the timing and stage of referral, but should also broaden their assessment to include other factors uncovered by the study that indicate the readiness of a dispute for mediation, say the researchers.

"By shedding light on the important factors that affect settlement outcome and the satisfaction levels of parties towards the mediation process, we hope that this study will help to inform the policies and practices of judiciaries in Singapore and elsewhere," says Professor Chua. "It is only through a more nuanced approach that the benefits of mediation in the context of litigation can be maximised."

"We are most grateful for the kind support of the Singapore Judicial College, the Supreme Court, the State Courts and the Singapore Mediation Centre," says Professor Quek Anderson. "This study would not have been possible without their assistance and collaboration with the university."

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For more information, please contact:

Goh Lijie (Ms)

Office of Research & Tech Transfer

Singapore Management University

DID: 6828 9698

Email: ljgoh@smu.edu.sg
SMU Office of Research & Tech Transfer - An initial public offering (IPO) is usually seen as the start of a company's independence from its venture capitalist (VC) backers. But new research published in the Academy of Management Journal suggests that even after companies have been listed on the stock exchange, their failures can still negatively impact the reputations of VCs that once endorsed them.

When businesses decide whether to invest in or partner with a new company, they treat its affiliations with prominent third parties--such as endorsements from VCs--as valuable signals of the quality of the company. However, it is unclear whether VCs' reputations are really at risk should their endorsements turn out to be unreliable signals, and the company they vouch for fails to live up to expectations.

Titled 'Crossed Wires: Endorsement Signals and the Effects of IPO Firm Delistings on Venture Capitalists' Reputations', the present study examines the impact on VCs' reputations when newly public companies they once endorsed are delisted from the stock exchange. The research was carried out by an international team of scholars from Singapore Management University (SMU), Singapore; the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Korea; and Arizona State University and the University of Tennessee-Knoxville in the US.

The researchers considered the following indicators to measure VC reputation: the amount and number of funds managed by the VC, the number of companies the VC invests in and the amount invested, and the number of companies the VC took public. They found that endorsing VCs indeed suffered reputational damage when their portfolio companies failed to meet expectations, even after such companies have gone public.

"We show that a firm's reputation is precarious and can be damaged even by an event that is not within the full control of the affected firm. Specifically, firm reputation can be vulnerable to negative events occurring in different industries or by past relationships that a firm no longer has," says study first author Assistant Professor David Gomulya of the SMU Lee Kong Chian School of Business. The results imply that VCs create high expectations of companies they endorse, which when violated, can have long-lasting consequences for the VCs' own reputations, say the authors. VCs concerned with protecting their reputations should therefore temper the expectations they create, and try to ensure that near-term performance expectations are met, says Professor Gomulya.

"VCs must remain vigilant about their reputation. If they want to bring startups public, they should ideally do so after the startups are strong enough to perform in the public arena. They should not rush this process prematurely," he explains. "Otherwise, any delisting the startups suffer within five years after the IPO can go back and hurt the VC's reputation even after it has 'handed over' the startups to the public domain."

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For more information, please contact:

Goh Lijie (Ms)

Office of Research & Tech Transfer

Singapore Management University

DID: 6828 9698

Email: ljgoh@smu.edu.sg
Study includes 133 double-blind randomised controlled trials with data from more than 14,000 children and adolescents and 10,000 adults.

The authors say that environment modifications and non-pharmacological interventions should be considered first, but drugs can play an important role in treating ADHD. The study provides information for clinicians on the relative effectiveness and safety of various ADHD drugs.

Of the drugs available for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the most effective and safe for short-term treatment is methylphenidate for children, and amphetamines for adults, according to the most comprehensive evidence yet from a network meta-analysis and systematic review comparing the effectiveness and safety of seven ADHD drugs against placebo, published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal.

The study compared the effectiveness and side effects of amphetamines (including lisdexamfetamine), atomoxetine, bupropion, clonidine, guanfacine, methylphenidate, and modafinil with each other or with placebo over 12 weeks of treatment. However, more research to confirm longer term effects of ADHD medications is urgently needed.

Although they are commonly prescribed for people with ADHD, the study did not include antipsychotic drugs or antidepressants as they do not treat ADHD core symptoms. The study also does not include psychological therapies used for ADHD, but the authors say that these should be regularly discussed with people with ADHD and their family members or carers, and possibly offered before ADHD medications, if appropriate, especially for children and adolescents.

"Medication can be an important tool for people with ADHD, and our study illustrates that in the short term, these can be effective and safe treatment options for children, adolescents and adults," says Dr Andrea Cipriani, University of Oxford, UK. "It's important to note that the data available only allow us to compare the effectiveness at 12 weeks, when we know that both children and adults can be on these medications for longer. More research is needed into the long-term effects of medication. Environmental modifications - such as changes made to minimise the impact of ADHD in day-to-day living - and non-pharmacological therapies should be considered first in ADHD treatment, but for people who require drug treatments, our study finds that methylphenidate should be the first drug offered for children and adolescents, and amphetamines should be the first drug offered for adults." [1]

ADHD is estimated to affect 5% of school-age children and 2.5% of adults worldwide. The disorder is characterised by age-inappropriate levels of inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity, or all of these. The annual costs associated with ADHD are substantial in many countries, including US$143-266 billion in the USA.

ADHD medications are not a permanent cure for ADHD but may help patients concentrate better, be less impulsive, feel calmer, and learn and practice new skills. Treatment breaks are occasionally recommended to assess whether the medication is still needed, but the treatment for ADHD can be taken for periods longer than 12 weeks.

Over the past few decades, prescriptions for drugs for ADHD have increased in the USA and other countries, but treatment guidelines are inconsistent as there are a few head-to-head comparisons of ADHD drugs available.

Currently, the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends methylphenidate as first-line drug treatment in children and adolescents (with lisdexamfetamine as the second option, and atomoxetine or guanfacine recommended as third-line drugs), and recommend methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine as first choices in adults. Other guidelines in Europe recommend psychostimulants as first-line treatment without any distinction between methylphenidate and amphetamines being made.

This study compared the available drugs based on how effectively they reduce ADHD symptoms and improve general functioning over 12 weeks of treatment. It also studied the drugs' side effects (including blood pressure and weight loss), and acceptability was assessed according to how many people dropped out of trials for any reason.

Of the 133 randomised clinical trials included, 81 were in children and adolescents, 51 were in adults and one trial was in both. Of these, 89 randomised controlled trials included unpublished data or were completely unpublished. Drug effectiveness was reviewed in 10068 children and adolescents and in 8131 adults, while side effects were evaluated in 11018 children and adolescents and 5362 adults.

Symptom rating came from teachers and clinicians for children, and for adults these were given by clinicians.

Based on clinician ratings in children and adolescents, all drugs were more effective than placebo in controlling ADHD symptoms. But teachers only rated methylphenidate and modafinil as more effective than placebo (there was no data for teacher ratings of amphetamines and clonidine).

In adults, there was no data for guanfacine and clonidine. Clinicians rated all other drugs, except modafinil, as more effective than placebo in controlling ADHD symptoms.

Comparing all seven drugs, amphetamines were more effective than modafinil, atomoxetine and methylphenidate in children, adolescents, and adults.

Generally, ADHD drugs were less effective and less tolerable for adults than children and adolescents, and the cause of this is unknown.

Amphetamines, methylphenidate, atomoxetine, and modafinil caused weight loss in children, adolescents and adults. Amphetamines and atomoxetine increased blood pressure in children and adolescents blood, and methylphenidate did so in adults.

In children and adolescents, methylphenidate was the only drug with better acceptability than placebo, and in adults, only amphetamines had better acceptability than placebo.

Taking all of the outcomes into account, the authors conclude that methylphenidate should be the first option drug for children and adolescents with ADHD. In adults, they conclude that amphetamines should be the first drug to be offered.

However, there was not enough evidence available to confirm whether lisdexamfetamine - which is currently recommended by NICE for adults with ADHD - was more effective and tolerable for adults with ADHD than other amphetamines available. In addition, although NICE recommends atomoxetine and guanfacine as third-line drugs in children, the study found these to be as tolerable or less tolerable than placebo.

"Our findings will hopefully help people with ADHD in the USA find the best treatment for them by clarifying which drugs should be first, second and third line treatments. With an increasing number of people being diagnosed with ADHD and given a drug prescription in the USA, our study provides a starting point for medication, and hopefully helps patients more quickly find a drug that works for them." says Dr Cipriani. [1]

The authors note some limitations, including that, despite efforts to include all available trials and unpublished data, they cannot rule out missing studies. They had also planned to study the drugs over the long-term (26 and 52 weeks), but were unable to do so as there was little data available.

Dr Cipriani continues: "The lack of randomised controlled trials with outcomes beyond 12 weeks highlights the need for research funding to assess the long-term effects of these drugs. However, the evidence we have about methylphenidate and amphetamines from our study is robust, and should help inform clinical decisions." [1]

Writing in a linked Comment, Mark Stein, Seattle Children's Hospital, USA, says: "As diagnostic rates of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) increase worldwide, the most common questions asked by patients are whether to start a medication, which one, and for how long... By including studies published up to April, 2017, and previously unpublished information, Cortese and colleagues' results clarify inconsistencies in earlier reviews and meta-analyses, some of which have generated much controversy... Regarding the three common questions patients ask, the extant literature meant that the network meta-analysis could derive only part answers, including general support for short-term medication use, basic guidelines about first-line medications based on age, and little to no data for duration of treatment. These results--and particularly limitations of the data obtained--call for future research that translates directly to clinical practice."

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NOTES TO EDITORS

This study was funded by Stichting Eunethydis (European Network for Hyperkinetic Disorder), and the UK National Institute for Health Research Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre. It was conducted by researchers from University of Southampton, Solent NHS Trust, New York University Child Study Center, University of Nottingham, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre, University of Bern, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Aalborg Psychiatric Hospital, Aalborg University Hospital, University of Oxford, and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, University of Cagliari and "A Cao" Paediatric Hospital, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Bolzano, Medical Faculty Mannheim and University of Heidelberg, University of Melbourne, University of Dundee, Murdoch Childrens' Research Institute, University of Verona, Psychiatric University Clinic Zurich, University of Basel, Capital Region Psychiatry, Kerman University of Medical Sciences.

The labels have been added to this press release as part of a project run by the Academy of Medical Sciences seeking to improve the communication of evidence. For more information, please see: http://www.sciencemediacentre.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/AMS-press-release-labelling-system-GUIDANCE.pdf if you have any questions or feedback, please contact The Lancet press office pressoffice@lancet.com

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Protected riverbank habitats within areas of oil palm cultivation can play a key role in reducing the negative impacts on tropical bird numbers but need to be increased in size, new research from the University of Kent.

Protected riverbank habitats within areas of oil palm cultivation can play a key role in reducing the negative impacts on tropical bird numbers but need to be increased in size, new research from the University of Kent has shown.

Converting rainforests to oil palm plantations has well documented impacts on tropical wildlife, including birds. But so far there has been little research on the value natural vegetation in river areas in plantations has for nature, although these are often preserved for water management as 'riparian reserves'.

However, a new study, led by the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology in the School of Anthropology and Conservation at the University of Kent, in partnership with Universiti Malaysia Sabah, demonstrates that riparian areas can help to lessen the negative impacts of oil palm cultivation on bird communities.

The team counted birds across 28 rivers at a site in Malaysia and were able to examine their findings in relation to the width of the protected forest alongside the rivers. The study showed that large riparian reserves tend to support more bird species, with the largest ones hosting similar number as nearby forests.

Overall, the researchers found that a single river site might support around a third of all the bird species found in adjacent forests.

Furthermore, the authors were able to show that the best rivers for protecting bird populations in oil palm areas had more than 40m of forest vegetation protected on each bank, which helped provide shelter and resources for the birds. However, to ensure all the forest-dependent bird species were represented, the width of this protected riparian area would need to be at least 100m on each bank.

Lead author Simon Mitchell said the findings underlined the potential to protect some bird species within landscapes affected by palm oil cultivation

'We show that even small increases to the width could lead to big improvements for birds. This could be really important if we are to find better ways of maintaining biodiversity in agricultural landscapes.'

The researchers hope their findings will lead to oil palm companies increasing the width of riparian reserves protected in new plantations, or restoring more vegetation in old ones. Stricter environmental policies in tropical producer countries could also help improve the protection of riparian reserves.

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The findings have been published in the Journal of Applied Ecology under open access entitled Riparian reserves help protect forest bird communities in oil palm dominated landscapes.

For further information or interview requests contact Sandy Fleming at the University of Kent Press Office.

Tel: 01227 823581

Email: S.Fleming@kent.ac.uk

News releases can also be found at http://www.kent.ac.uk/news

University of Kent on Twitter: http://twitter.com/UniKent

Established in 1965, the University of Kent - the UK's European university - now has almost 20,000 students across campuses or study centres at Canterbury, Medway, Tonbridge, Brussels, Paris, Athens and Rome.

It has been ranked 22nd in the Guardian University Guide 2018 and in June 2017 was awarded a gold rating, the highest, in the UK Government's Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF).

In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2015-16, it is in the top 10% of the world's leading universities for international outlook and 66th in its table of the most international universities in the world. The THE also ranked the University as 20th in its 'Table of Tables' 2016.

Kent is ranked 17th in the UK for research intensity (REF 2014). It has world-leading research in all subjects and 97% of its research is deemed by the REF to be of international quality.

In the National Student Survey 2016, Kent achieved the fourth highest score for overall student satisfaction, out of all publicly funded, multi-faculty universities.

Along with the universities of East Anglia and Essex, Kent is a member of the Eastern Arc Research Consortium (http://www.kent.ac.uk/about/partnerships/eastern-arc.html).

The University is worth 0.7 billion to the economy of the south east and supports more than 7,800 jobs in the region. Student off-campus spend contributes 293.3m and 2,532 full-time-equivalent jobs to those totals.

Kent has received two Queen's Anniversary prizes for Higher and Further Education.
Do dopamine neurons have a role in causing cues in our environment to acquire value? And, if so, do different groups of dopamine neurons serve different functions within this process?

Those are the questions researchers at the University of Minnesota Medical School are looking to answer.

Recent research published in Nature Neuroscience by University of Minnesota Medical School neuroscientist Benjamin Saunders, PhD, uses a Pavlovian model of conditioning to see if turning on a light - a simple cue - just before dopamine neurons were activated could motivate action. The classic Pavlov model combined the ringing of a bell with providing a tasty steak to a dog that, over time, conditioned a dog to drool when the bell rang with or without a steak. In this research, however, there was no "real" reward like food or water, in order to allow researchers to isolate the function of dopamine neuron activity.

"We wanted to know if dopamine neurons are actually directly responsible for assigning a value to these transient environmental cues, like signs," said Saunders, who conducted some of his research as a postdoctoral fellow in the laboratory of Patricia Janak, PhD, at Johns Hopkins University.

Dopamine neurons, those cells in the brain that turn on when experiencing a reward. They are also the neurons that degenerate in Parkinson's disease.

"We learned that dopamine neurons are one way our brains give the cues around us meaning," said Saunders. "The activity of dopamine neurons alone - even in the absence of food, drugs, or other innately rewarding substances - can imbue cues with value, giving them the ability to motivate actions."

To answer the second core question, the researchers targeted specific segments of dopamine neurons - those located in the substantial nigra (SNc) and those located in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). These two types of neurons have historically been studied in different disease research fields - SNc neurons in Parkinson's disease, and VTA neurons in addiction studies.

Scientists learned that cues predicting activation of the two types of neurons drove very different responses - those predicting the SNc neurons led to a sort of "get up and go" response of invigorated rapid movement. The cue predicting VTA neuron activation, however, became enticing on it own, driving approach to the cue's location, a sort of "where do I go?" response.

"Our results reveal parallel motivational roles for dopamine neurons in response to cues. In a real-world situation, both forms of motivation are critical," said Saunders. "You have to be motivated to move around and behave, and you have to be motivated to go to the specific location of things you want and need."

These results provide an important understanding of the function of dopamine neurons related to motivations triggered by environmental cues. And this work contributes to the understanding of relapse for those struggling with addictions.

"If a cue - a sign, an alley, a favorite bar - takes on this powerful motivational value, they will be difficult to resist triggers for relapse," said Saunders. "We know dopamine is involved, but an essential goal for future studies is to understand how normal, healthy cue-triggered motivation differs from dysfunctional motivation that occurs in humans with addiction and related diseases."

###

About the University of Minnesota Medical School

The University of Minnesota Medical School is at the forefront of learning and discovery, transforming medical care and educating the next generation of physicians. Our graduates and faculty produce high-impact biomedical research and advance the practice of medicine. Visit med.umn.edu to learn how the University of Minnesota is innovating all aspects of medicine.
Periwinkles, struggling to survive the seashore battleground, have developed a genetic 'toolkit' to help them adapt to different environments, a new study shows.

This toolkit has enabled the snail to develop different characteristics according to whether it lives mainly on parts of the sea shore where crabs are a constant threat, or in rocky places where it is disturbed by waves.

A team of researchers from the University of Sheffield, in the UK, and the University of Gothenburg, in Sweden, investigated hundreds of rough periwinkles, collected from seashores on the west coast of Sweden.

They noted their shell form and exact position on the shore, and then analysed their genomes to try to find out how these adaptations occurred to give the snails the best chance of survival.

The results, published in Evolution Letters, showed the snails' characteristics changed significantly at the point on the shore where the crabs disappear and the wave action gets stronger.

Anja Westram, postdoctoral researcher at the University of Sheffield, who led the analysis, explains: "Either side of the habitat transition, the snails look like different species. Snails on the boulder shore have thicker shells, which are a better defence against crabs. The smaller, cliff shells have a wide opening, so the snail's foot can attach more securely to rocks, to defend against waves. And across 10-20m of shore in between these areas, we found all kinds of intermediate forms."

But when the team analysed the periwinkles' genetic data to try to discover how these changes occurred, they uncovered some surprising results.

They identified around 1,000 genes that differed between snails in the 'crab' and 'wave' environments but, instead of being spread throughout the genome, most of them were clustered in specific regions across just three chromosomes. The researchers concluded that the chromosomes were holding together sets of genes to help the snails adapt to different environments.

"This study gives us a fascinating insight into how animals and plants might cope when faced with contrasting environments," says Professor Roger Butlin, of Sheffield's Department of Animal and Plant Sciences who led the study. "Rather than many genes having to respond separately to natural selection, this creates a ready-made 'toolkit' on these three chromosomes that has allowed the snail to adapt more rapidly."

The sea shore in Sweden could only have been colonised by the periwinkles some time after the end of the last ice age, around 5-6,000 years ago. As periwinkles reproduce annually, that means these adaptations must have occurred within 5-6,000 generations- a rapid change in evolutionary terms.

The team is now looking at other shores around Europe to investigate how widely the same adaptive toolkit is used by the periwinkles. They are also looking at other species of periwinkle to find out more about how the sets of genes were put together.

"Our aim is to better understand the origin of the species, but also to understand how quickly animals and plants are able to cope with environmental challenges," adds Professor Butlin.

###

The research was funded by the Natural Environment Research Council in the UK, and the Swedish Research Council.
Forty-four planets in solar systems beyond our own have been unveiled in one go, dwarfing the usual number of confirmations from extrasolar surveys, which is typically a dozen or less. The findings will improve our models of solar systems and may help researchers investigate exoplanet atmospheres. Novel techniques developed to validate the find could hugely accelerate the confirmation of more extrasolar planet candidates.

An international team of astronomers pooled data from U.S. space agency NASA's Kepler and the European Space Agency (ESA)'s Gaia space telescopes, as well as ground-based telescopes in the U.S. Alongside John Livingston, lead author of the study and a graduate student at the University of Tokyo, the team's combined resources led to the confirmed existence of these 44 exoplanets and described various details about them.

A portion of the findings yield some surprising characteristics: "For example, four of the planets orbit their host stars in less than 24 hours," says Livingston. "In other words, a year on each of those planets is shorter than a day here on Earth." These contribute to a small but growing list of "ultrashort-period" planets, so it could turn out they're not as unusual as they might seem.

"It was also gratifying to verify so many small planets," continues Livingston. "Sixteen were in the same size class as Earth, one in particular turning out to be extremely small -- about the size of Venus -- which was a nice affirmation as it's close to the limit of what is possible to detect."

The source observations for this study were made by Kepler, and they would not have happened were it not for a fault in 2013, which prevented accurate control of the space telescope. "Two out of the four control-reaction wheels failed, which meant Kepler couldn't perform its original mission to stare at one specific patch of the sky," explains Professor Motohide Tamura of the University of Tokyo. "This led to its contingent mission, 'K2' -- our observations came from campaign 10 of this mission. We're lucky Kepler continues to function as well as it does."

The planets observed by K2 are known as transiting planets because their orbits bring them in front of their host stars, slightly reducing their brightness. However, other astrophysical phenomena can cause similar signals, so follow-up observations and detailed statistical analyses were performed to confirm the planetary nature of these signals. As part of his doctoral work, Livingston traveled to Kitt Peak observatory in the U.S. state of Arizona to obtain data from a special type of camera, known as a speckle interferometer installed on a large telescope there. These observations, along with follow-up observations from a telescope in the state of Texas, were necessary to characterize the host stars and rule out false positives. The combination of detailed analyses of data from these ground-based telescopes, K2 and Gaia enabled the precise determination of the planets' sizes and temperatures. The team's findings include 27 additional candidates that are likely to be real planets, which will be the subject of future research.

Scientists hope to understand what kinds of planets might be out there, but can only draw valid conclusions if there are enough planets for robust statistical analysis. The addition of a large number of new planets, therefore, leads directly to a better theoretical understanding of solar-system formation. The planets also provide good targets for detailed individual studies to yield measurements of planetary composition, interior structure and atmospheres -- in particular, the 18 planets in several multiplanet systems. "The investigation of other solar systems can help us understand how planets and even our own solar system formed," says Livingston. "The study of other worlds has much to teach us about our own."

###

Journal article

John H. Livingston, Michael Endl, Fei Dai, William D. Cochran, Oscar Barragan, Davide Gandolfi, Teruyuki Hirano, Sascha Grziwa, Alexis M. S. Smith, Simon Albrecht, Juan Cabrera, Szilard Csizmadia, Jerome P. de Leon, Hans Deeg, Philipp Eigmueller, Anders Erikson, Mark Everett, Malcolm Fridlund, Akihiko Fukui, Eike W. Guenther, Artie P. Hatzes, Steve Howell, Judith Korth, Norio Narita, David Nespral, Grzegorz Nowak, Enric Palle, Martin Patzold, Carina M. Persson, Jorge Prieto-Arranz, Heike Rauer, Motohide Tamura, Vincent Van Eylen, and Joshua N. Winn

44 validated planets from K2 campaign 10, The Astronomical Journal

Related links

New Frontiers of Extrasolar Planets: Exploring Terrestrial Planets

Department of Astronomy, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo

Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo

Research contact

John Livingston - livingston@astron.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Department of Astronomy, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, JAPAN

Public relations contacts

Kristina Awatsu - kouhou.s@gs.mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Office of Communication, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, JAPAN

Rohan Mehra - press-releases.adm@mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp

Division for Strategic Public Relations, The University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8654, JAPAN

About the University of Tokyo

The University of Tokyo is Japan's leading university and one of the world's top research universities. The vast research output of some 6,000 researchers is published in the world's top journals across the arts and sciences. Our vibrant student body of around 15,000 undergraduate and 15,000 graduate students includes over 2,000 international students. Find out more at http://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/ or follow us on Twitter at @UTokyo_News_en
How often do you see a tourism film which shows monuments without any touch up, no fancy angles used to beautify the place further, and where crowds have not been deleted from frames to give the feeling of exclusivity when you imagine yourself on a holiday there? If you watch the MP tourism film you are definitely not going to get a rude shock when you see the place swarming with people on your actual holiday, because the Ogilvy team has kept it as real as it gets in their ad campaign.





Not surprising that the effort has been appreciated by international advertising award juries this year with the campaign winning a Silver and Bronze Lion at Cannes for the Worlds most honest tourism film and another one 'MP main dil hua bache sa having bagged a Graphite Pencil at D&AD Awards 2018. Incidentally it is also the first time that a state tourism ad from India has won such accolades at Cannes.

Taking about the campaign, Azazul Haque, CCO, Ogilvy South, says, We had never shown the destinations in their real form ever in any of our previous MP Tourism ads. We have either shown shadows, or silhouettes through colours, faces, or toys. And the client said its high time we show what they really look like. When we approached our Director Vijay Sawant, he said what if we shoot real people at these locations and put them all together. That is where the idea was born. And the execution was really tough.

The team shot 10000 pictures in one month. Selecting and stitching together the final 500-600 pictures took close to three months and creating that catchy audio which matches beautifully with the frames took another month. Not surprisingly the campaign bagged a silver lion for its impressive editing and a bronze lion for its addictive music at Cannes International Festival of Creativity this year in the highly competitive Film Craft category. And yet this was not a film which romanticised a tourist destination.



Haque says, We expected a lot more wins from the Toy film too and were disheartened when it didnt win at Cannes but it won a Graphite pencil at D&AD. That film also took six months to make. Very rarely a mainstream campaign which is entertaining, wins at international festivals, generally social causes win more. We wanted to show a fun side of India through these films, why should we only portray poverty as the face of India. So when something like this wins, it kind of gives the confidence to clients and agencies that if you do entertaining and interesting work, it can also get you accolades from across the world. Interestingly the latest film also marks Haques on screen debut. I am called the selfie man of advertising because I keep uploading selfies, so my team felt I deserved to be there in this film, he adds on a lighter note.



MP state tourism campaigns have had a distinct treatment ever since Ogilvy won the account in 2006. Unlike other states they have steered clear of using a brand ambassador too. Elaborating on that, Piyush Pandey, Executive chairman and Creative director, Ogilvy South Asia, says, We keep changing the expressions while the soul stays the same. After all templates tend to get boring. Each state has a different story to say, for Rajasthan tourism we used the theme Jaane Kya Dikh Jaye. In Gujarat we were following the walk the talk kind of approach with Amitabh Bachchan which could be possible only because of Mr Bachchans commitment, otherwise its impossible to take celebrities to locations. Over 2-3 years we shot at least 40 days with Mr Bachchan in Gujarat. However a similar approach would not have worked with Madhya Pradesh ads. Each place has a need and you need to own the theme you pick. Like MP Tourism has a rustic heart. Each element has a sense of nostalgia attached to it be it a toy, or Holi, bioscope etc. It needs a different kind of storytelling. If we use a brand ambassador for MP, it may end up looking like a Gujarat Tourism ad.



Meanwhile Hariranjan Rao, MD of MP Tourism Development Corporation, a native of Karnataka, while confessing that all his holidays now revolve around MP agrees that the state does not need a brand ambassador. Talking about whether they plan to take MP to an international audience after the wins at international award shows, he says, Well, we havent targeted this campaign for an international audience as of now, neither by releasing this ad on international TV channels nor through international magazines. But, I feel that if we tweak it just a little bit and release it for the international audience, this ad has the potential to catch their imagination. And we might be doing that in the days to come.

Read more news about (internet advertising India, internet advertising, advertising India, digital advertising India, media advertising India)
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The first person to plead guilty in the criminal scheme that led to the downfall of former San Antonio lawmaker Carlos Uresti wont have to serve any prison time.

Eric Nelson, the former FourWinds Logistics e-commerce and marketing director who admitted to doctoring a bank record to make it appear it had more money than it did, was sentenced to four years of probation Tuesday in San Antonio federal court.

You got a pretty generous sentence, but I think you earned it, Senior U.S. District Judge David Ezra told Nelson, 33.

Ezra credited Nelsons candid and honest testimony during a 2016 bankruptcy court proceeding for providing a blueprint for the government in its investigation of the FourWinds scheme.

FourWinds was a San Antonio oil field services company that bought and sold sand used in fracking. Prospective investors were lured with promises of quick riches, but the venture was short-lived. Investor money was misspent to support the wild lifestyle of its CEO, Stan Bates, who pleaded guilty to securities fraud, money laundering and other charges, and is scheduled to be sentenced next month.

The company collapsed into bankruptcy in 2015 amid allegations that investors were defrauded. Prosecutors said FourWinds was a Ponzi scheme.

Nelson pleaded guilty to a single charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He cooperated with federal investigators and testified during Urestis trial earlier this year in hopes of consideration at his sentencing.

Under sentencing guidelines, Nelson could have faced 46 to 57 months in prison. Both prosecutors and Robbie L. Ward, Nelsons lawyer, asked the judge to sentence him to probation.

While (Nelson) didnt pay an unimportant role, (the scheme) would have occurred without his presence, Ezra said. So it does not seem to me in the short run or the long run that incarceration would serve any good purpose here.

A relieved Nelson hugged his parents following the hearing. They were joined by members of St. Marks Episcopal Church, where Ward said Nelson now works as a facilities manager.

Like other defendants already sentenced in the case, Nelson will be responsible for paying $6.3 million in restitution to the FourWinds investors who were defrauded.

Nelson apologized to the FourWinds investors and the court.

I never will be able to forgive myself for my time at FourWinds, he told the judge.

Ezra wondered why Nelson just didnt quit FourWinds.

I was beyond scared, Nelson answered. It escalated and it kept getting worse and worse.

Nelson is the fourth person to be sentenced in the FourWinds case.

Uresti, who was the companys legal counsel and a 1 percent owner, and who recruited investors, was found guilty of 11 felonies in February and later sentenced to 12 years in prison. His conviction led him to give up his law license and resign from the Texas Senate in June.

Company consultant Gary Cain was sentenced to five years and eight months in prison. Both Uresti and Cain are appealing.

Bates was supposed to be sentenced Monday, but some late developments led the judge to reschedule for Sept. 11.

Bates pleaded guilty in January rather than stand trial with Uresti, the longtime San Antonio Democrat, and Cain. Nelson and two other FourWinds officials entered into plea agreements.

Laura Jacobs, FourWinds comptroller, was sentenced to a year and a day in a federal womens prison camp last month. Shannon Smith, a FourWinds owner and the chief operating officer, is scheduled to be sentenced next Tuesday. .

Nelson testified during Uresti and Cains trial that Bates told him to add the numbers 187 in front of $98,896, the amount actually in FourWinds bank account, to make it appear that it had $18,798,896 in the bank. The statement was shown to investors and as proof of funds so FourWinds could buy sand.

Nelson said he initially resisted but ultimately gave in to Bates demand.

He threatened to shoot me in the back of the head, Nelson testified.

Nelson also admitted to doctoring documents that contained profit projections for FourWinds and its investors. One document showed a profit projection of $45,000, but in another document the next day, the profit projection was upped to $80,000. Nelson said he changed the documents on Bates orders.

Nelson was asked on the witness stand the reason for changing the numbers.

To make it look like a better investment, he said.

The documents containing the conflicting numbers were forwarded to Uresti, who never questioned them, according to Nelson.

Patrick Danner is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | pdanner@express-news.net | Twitter: @AlamoPD
Grupo Lala, the Mexican owner of Promised Land Dairy, is moving its Floresville operations to a more modern facility in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

This consolidation allows Promised Land to better meet the needs of retailers and consumers by offering an extended shelf life product (ESL) in its nationwide markets, the company said in an emailed statement.

The Floresville plant did not produce ESL products.

Lala acquired the plant with its $246 million purchase of Laguna Dairy in 2016. The acquisition allowed Lala, which now has about $3.4 billion in revenue, to target Hispanics in the U.S. with products including yogurt smoothies, Borden cultured products and Nordica cottage cheese.

The purchase included a plant in Omaha, Neb., as well as the plants in Floresville and Colorado Springs.

San Antonio businessman James Leininger opened Promised Land in 1987, touting the dairys use of Jersey cow milk to create exotic blends like Midnight Chocolate and Holiday Nog.

The plant closed in April.

Floresville Mayor Cecelia Gonzalez-Dippel said the plant manager called her a few months back to say the company was leaving town.

We hated to see them go, she said. Promised Land has been in our areas quite a while now. And we love the milk.

But she said she wasnt surprised.

Throughout probably the last 10 years theyve been downsizing and downsizing, she said.

Pennsylvania-based Harry Davis & Co. is hosting an online auction of major dairy systems, pumps, compressors and other products today through Thursday.

lbrezosky@express-news.net
Playwright Liz Coronado Castillo has a very specific audience in mind when she writes: Her grandmother.

She didnt speak any English, but she would come to all my plays, including Shakespeare, said Castillo, who first got involved in theater as an actor before she turned her attention to writing. It dawned on me  why am I not writing for her? Plenty of other people are writing English (language) plays; Im going to write for her.

Really, my dream is to, by the end of my career, say I brought people to theater that might not have come to the theater.

Castillo, who was playwright-in-residence at Sul Ross State University in Alpine before moving here a little more than a year ago, has had her work produced across the state. She is getting her first full San Antonio production of one of her plays courtesy of Teatro Audaz, which is staging her comedy Aye, No!

Castillo has been affiliated with the 2-year-old company since it began. Aye, No! was part of a series of staged readings that made up the troupes first slate of programming in 2016. The new production is the first fully staged show that the company has done in the Cellar Theater at The Public Theater of San Antonio, where it is in residence.

Weve come full circle, said Laura Garza, artistic director for Teatro Audaz. When I saw the feedback from the audience (at the reading) and how they all related, the energy in the room was so great, I thought, This has to be the first show that we do in the Cellar.

Related: Jump-Start Performance Co. invites audiences to step into the dark

The play is about Alicia (Miranda Valdez), a Latina college student who lets her very traditional family know that she will be bringing home a close friend. They expect a boyfriend and are floored when she turns up with a girlfriend. If that werent enough of a shocker, they also are stunned that the girlfriend is Anglo. Alicia turns to some wise drag-queen pals to advise her on the situation.

Alicias loving relatives  a couple of aunts and a grandmother  were inspired by Castillos family. Her grandmother, who died before Castillo found success as a playwright, raised her and her brother in tiny Balmorhea. Just like in Aye, No!, her aunts lived next door.

One of my favorite things about growing up with my grandma and my aunts was their storytelling, she said. They would come over and they would drink coffee and they would just talk about Mexico when they were young, and thats where I learned to love storytelling. And I feel a sense of urgency to collect all those (stories) and share them.

Castillos relationship with Teatro Audaz runs deeper than the current production. She took part in an evening of coming-out stories that the company staged, and Casa de Muneca, her take on Henrik Ibsens A Dolls House, will kick off the companys 2018-19 season.

I feel really blessed and really lucky to have found a theater that likes my work and my voice and is willing to take a chance, she said.

The companys support of her work is part of its overall mission to provide opportunities to local Latino theater artists, Garza said.

Im very much about promoting, fostering and really growing the talent here in San Antonio, Garza said. Because we do a have a lot of it, especially Latinos, that are not being utilized as much as they should be.

And thats why, when the idea popped up several months ago for the company to produce an original serial based on telenovelas, Garza turned to Castillo. The playwright cooked up The Glam Clam, which is set in a gay bar where the staff  including a few drag queens  is rattled after the owner is attacked while leaving one evening.

Related: The Harlequin's season includes ticket deals and all-new revues

The show debuted in February at the Bang Bang Bar. There is a stage in the club  thats where the Aye, No! reading took place  but the action also moved throughout the bar. As patrons arrived, the actors were already in character, chatting about what had happened and getting to know their audience a bit.

Ray Seams plays a drag queen in both The Glam Clam and in Aye, No!

When we read the script (for Aye, No!) initially, I could hear Liz saying the lines, especially for (the character) Alicia, Seams said. And she puts so much of herself into it, it makes it so organic, and thats what I love about it. Even in The Glam Clam, its very much her.

Three episodes of The Glam Clam have been produced so far. Castillo has written a fourth, and plans are being made to present it in October.

Shed like to do more with the series, perhaps writing a second season. Ideally, though, she said, shed work with someone rather than writing alone, because its difficult to come up with an audience-ready, 30-minute script every month.

She got a lot out of the project.

It was like I was taking a master class in writing and getting paid (for it), she said. I wouldnt say it was the strongest writing Ive done structurally. But I was very excited to crank it out, and see, can I survive this?

She tends not to go to rehearsals  for Glam Clam, she told the company that she could either write or watch them work  but she did attend at least one for Aye, No! She watched Seams, Louie Canales and Christian Gomez work with choreographer Courtnie Mercer on a drag number. She laughed at some of the moves and joked a bit with the cast.

Related: Nudity and other challenges face the cast of 'Quills'

In the script, that scene is left open, meaning that every production team can put its own stamp on it. Mercer and the actors danced to a mashup of Madonna and Lady Gaga. An Austin staging a few years ago used a bunch of Selena songs, Castillo said.

She says she always looks forward to seeing how that scene will be interpreted and how audiences will respond to it. Shes particularly eager to see the Teatro Audaz show.

Every time, its so different, she said, laughing. So Im excited. Ive never actually had a (full) production in San Antonio. And thats something Ive really wanted for a long time.

Deborah Martin is an arts writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read her on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | dlmartin@express-news.net | Twitter: @DeborahMartinEN
Tiffany Joyce Wider was hosting her annual all-girl summer camp in Columbia, South Carolina when one of the campers dubbed her Super Beauty, because she had the power to make others feel good about themselves.

As an artist based in South Carolina, that nickname sparked an idea in Widers head. Wider, who markets herself as TiffanyJ, imagined a young black super-girl named Super Beauty, who could crusade against bullies and inspire self-confidence in others. Super Beauty could be a champion for TiffanyJs campers, a group of predominantly African-American girls who often struggle with body-image issues.

Eventually, that character would star in Super Beauty Saves the Day, a childrens book released in March written and designed by TiffanyJ about a young black superhero who defeats bullies with acceptance and love. Super Beauty is now coming to life in doll form with the September release of the Super Beauty Doll. The doll can pre-ordered online for $24.99 at iamsuperbeauty.com.

RELATED: Another View: S.A. diversity is not just about Latinos

A doe-eyed plush toy modeled after the books character, the doll is loaded with 21 encouraging phrases meant to boost self-esteem in young girls. Super Beauty is made in TiffanyJs likeness, with black skin, brown eyes and a natural hair puff simular to the one once rocked by the artist. The doll has a spunky superhero outfit with a pink bow to match.

Sometimes, our little girls get confused because they automatically think black skin is less valuable, TiffanyJ said. A lot of time when little girls have natural hair, they feel like they have to have straight hair, or the pretty pig tails  But its O.K. to rock a natural puff, she said.

The doll doesnt have Barbie-like proportions. Its plush and short, and the toys looks are meant to feel attainable, TiffanyJ said. And though she intends for Super Beauty to be a self-esteem booster for both boys and girls of all races, the doll joins a team of other diverse toy lines devoted to accurately representing young black girls.

Barbie and American Girl have expanded their traditional lines to include a more diverse range of skin tones and colors. In 2016, American Girl added to its popular 10-doll historical collection Melody Ellison, the second black historical character currently on sale.

And Barbie, which first introduced an official black doll in 1980, released a new Barbie Fashionista Collection in 2016 that offers dolls in seven different skin tones, four different body types and 24 different hair styles.

The variety in body type, skin tones and style allows girls to find a doll that speaks to them, said Evelyn Mazzocco, the senior vice president and global general manager of Mattels Barbie, in a statement.

RELATED: Diversity deep in San Antonios roots

And smaller companies, like Positively Perfect Dolls and The One World Doll Projects Prettie Girls!, are also contributing to the diverse toy market. Both companies were founded in 2010 offer a range of dolls with a variety of different African-American skin tones and hair styles.

When compared to the other racially diverse dolls on the market, TiffanyJ believes that Super Beauty stands out for its timely focus on self-esteem. After spending time with the young girls she mentors in Columbia, she found they all wrestled with bullying, self-doubt and body image.

And though TiffanyJ did not experience bullying when she was growing up, she did struggle with self-image issues and severe depression. At 12 years old, she attempted suicide.

And though her story is an extreme case, self-esteem issues remain a consistent problem among young girls. According to the 2017 Dove Global Girls Beauty and Confidence Report, over half of the 5,165 girls surveyed reported not having high body esteem.

A survey released last year by the National Center for Education Statistics almost 23 percent of female students from ages 12 to 18 reported being bullied at school in 2015. In the same study, black children overall reported one of the highest rates of bullying among the different races at almost 25 percent.

RELATED: Diversity easier to achieve than empathy

Both bullying and self-esteem are confronted by Super Beautys book and doll. A pep talk is just a squeeze away, TiffanyJ said. One squeeze and the Super Beauty Doll is easing doubts (Your skin color is amazing. Your hair is flawless.) and rallying against bullies (When people make fun of you, its OK. They just dont understand your greatness and power.)

Im kind of envious of little girls now, said Jordan Maney, the 27-year-old founder of KeepHer, a San Antonio advocacy organization for women of color. She remembers what it was like being a young black girl in a toy store almost three decades ago.

Growing up, finding the option that looked like me, the dolls that had hair texture like me, was extremely limited, she said. Having dolls like Super Beauty can affirm young black girls experiences, Maney said. I think having dolls is really good for black girls to see and celebrate themselves, to feel empowered. But also, for other children to realize its OK  its beautiful, too.

TiffanyJ said her Super Beauty brand is a short-term pregnancy thats already birthing its purpose. She wants to continue to help girls see themselves as they really are on all platforms, because that is Super Beautys true purpose. I just want girls to start at an earlier age telling themselves that they are beautiful, she said.
While controversy over the future of Alamo Plaza continues unabated, work will nonetheless proceed on one agreed-upon goal: the repair and preservation of the church and Long Barrack.

The Texas General Land Office on Tuesday announced a contract for the most extensive conservation in more than a century at the Alamo, with a focus on controlling moisture and other factors that might contribute to deterioration of fragile walls of the two buildings.

A contract with Ford, Powell & Carson of San Antonio and Preservation Design Partnership of Philadelphia will include moisture sensing throughout the church, one of the countrys most recognized landmarks, and archaeological investigations at the site.

Those could help in the creation of a conservation plan for the two buildings, the only remaining original structures of the Mission San Antonio de Valero and the 1836 fort.

A spokesman with the land office said the contract has been awarded, so that the work can start in the fall, but the terms are in negotiation.

Bruce Winders, the Alamos on-site historian and curator, said the confessional, one of three side rooms with an original mission-era roof in the church, is one of the more sensitive areas where were experiencing more loss from cracking and delamination  splitting of stone into layers that eventually fall to the floor, resulting in loss of detail and definition.

Various methods have already been used to explore some of the walls and reverse their decline, including infrared imagery, ground-penetrating radar and 1990s placement of a horizontal stainless-steel plate. But the solution could be another form of technology that hasnt been used, Winders said.

Its going to be science that saves the Alamo, he added.

For years, people who cherish the church, used as a cannon station and refuge for women and children in the 1836 siege and battle, have known that the structure was deteriorating. While proposals under an Alamo master plan to close sections of streets to traffic, relocate the Cenotaph and possibly demolish commercial buildings in Alamo Plaza have drawn determined opposition, no one has spoken against efforts to save the church and Long Barrack.

Land Commissioner George P. Bush credited the Legislature, Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick with providing every penny for which we asked to fund the most important conservation program in Texas. In a request last year for $75 million from the Legislature for the Alamo during the 2018-2019 biennium, the Land Office sought $31 million for the church and Long Barrack reconstruction.

The work follows $5 million in emergency upgrades at the state-owned Alamo complex, including study and repair of the iconic church facade in 2015 and 2016.

Headlines & Hops: The Alamo What: A discussion of the Alamo will be moderated by Marc Duvoisin, editor; with Ricardo Pimentel, editorial board editor; Elaine Ayala, metro reporter; and Scott Huddleston, staff writer Where: Alamo Beer, 202 Lamar St. When: 7 p.m. Aug. 15 Admission: $10 for nonsubscribers, $5 for subscribers See More Collapse

Recent studies have revealed that the church, built over decades under different craftsmen, may be structurally weaker than previously thought in some places, with rubble or empty space, rather that solid or reinforcing stone, inside the walls.

The church was supposed to resemble the one at Mission Concepcion, with twin bell towers. But Antonio Tello, master mason in charge of construction of both churches and others, was accused in 1744 of murdering his lovers husband. He fled town, leaving work on the Alamo church in limbo. The structure was used for worship but never really completed until 1850, when the U.S. Army added a wooden roof and round parapet for use as a warehouse.

George Skarmeas, planning and design director at Preservation Design Partnership, has said more imaging and study are needed to determine whether structural reinforcement of the walls or replacement of the churchs 1920 concrete roof is needed.

For nearly two years, starting in September 2016, Alamo conservators placed black construction paper on part of the floor and found that the limestone-and-mortar walls are decomposing, leaving layers of white flakes and dust covering the paper.

The early signs are that we have some worrisome behavior of the building, Skarmeas told the San Antonio Express-News in 2016.

Also thought to contribute to decomposition are moisture drawn into the building by its air-conditioning, vibrations from nearby traffic and 2 feet of surface soil added to the site since 1836, leaving the walls vulnerable to rising damp  upward migration of ground moisture that can cause damage and flaking.

Scott Huddleston is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | shuddleston@express-news.net | Twitter: @shuddlestonSA
Two former Bexar County jailers have pleaded not guilty to federal charges that they were smuggling methamphetamines into the detention center.

Gabriel Robert Ortiz, 29, and Ruben Hernandez, 26, were indicted July 25 by a federal grand jury on charges that include conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Ortiz also is charged with three counts of attempted possession with intent to distribute meth, while Hernandez is separately charged with one count of attempted possession.
A DACA student who has been protesting outside a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility on the North Side is now in federal custody facing deportation, either a victim of retaliation for speaking his mind or a violator of immigration law accused of making threats against law enforcement.

Sergio Mapache Salazar, 18, is being painted by his lawyers and supporters as coming under attack from federal agents because hes calling for the elimination of ICE, the federal agency that has been a lightning rod over the Trump Administrations crackdown on immigrants that included the now-abandoned practice of separating undocumented parents from their children at the border.

But federal officials say he was arrested Friday for violating federal immigration law  an application to renew his temporary legal status was denied the day before  and sources confirmed Salazars name is on an FBI database of potential threats.

FROM PREMIUM: Small group of young activists call for abolishing ICE, Express-News report

Now Playing: America needs to abolish ICE. This video, "Op-Ed: Why We Need to Abolish ICE ", first appeared on nowthisnews.com. Video: NowThis News

Salazar was born in Mexico and has been here since he was 2. He has been living legally in the United States as a recipient of temporary legal immigration status under the controversial Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) initiative. The advocacy organization RAICES had filed for a renewal of his DACA status.

In a news release, RAICES, whose lawyers are representing Salazar, said he was arrested Friday as he left the protest camp outside an ICE bond and processing facility near Wurzbach Parkway. He was taken to an area behind a nearby abandoned Walmart, the statement claims, where his personal items were confiscated, he was shackled and taken to a detention center in Pearsall. He was later taken to a detention center in Laredo.

RAICES and Salazars father claim the FBI also got involved, watching the Salazar home a month ago and then questioning Salazar after his arrest Friday about his online activities and trying to get him to cooperate against other protesters.

They told him they had a search warrant for his cell phone based on accusations... related to impeding an officer and threats of bomb-making, RAICES said in a statement. Sergio has never been in trouble with the law and is strictly nonviolent. Sergio recently graduated (from) high school and is an aspiring filmmaker.

RELATED: Are 91% of DACA recipients employed, in school or in the military?

Salazar had a video at last years CineFestival and won an award in 2016 for his film work when he was a student at Roosevelt High School.

Other protestors at the campsite said Monday that Salazar was kidnapped but otherwise referred questions to RAICES.

FBI spokeswoman Michelle Lee declined comment about the allegations, but added Im not aware of any criminal charges against this individual at this time.

A review of federal court records shows no criminal charges against Salazar, but court observers note he is in administrative immigration proceedings, which is a process different from the criminal justice system.

ICE officials said in a statement that the agency does not target immigrants unlawfully present in the United States based on their advocacy positions or in retaliation for critical comments they make.

Any suggestion to the contrary is irresponsible, speculative and inaccurate. ICE prioritizes its enforcement resources on individuals who pose a threat to national security, public safety and border security, the statement reads. Target information is based on intelligence-driven leads - this may include open source information.

Law enforcement sources confirmed to the Express-News that Salazar is the subject of scrutiny by the FBIs Joint Terrorism Task Force because of an intelligence referral by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

READ ALSO: Group with fascist ties takes credit for attack on anti-ICE protest camp

Salazar was being looked at because of his or his groups online postings allegedly threatening law enforcement  and specifically ICE  and/or instructional videos on how to make certain unspecified weapons and countering law enforcement, according to the sources.

His name and the intelligence information wound up on a special FBI database, the sources said.

When the FBI or JTTF gets a referral, (the information) is entered there, said a retired FBI agent. It could be anything, and not necessarily major. It could be someone heard the person making threats or saw them post them or things like that.

Salazars involvement with the Autonomous Brown Berets de San Antonio, TejAztlan is also being scrutinized. On Facebook, the grass roots group says it is statewide and focuses on serving the community and acting as a vanguard against oppression, racism, and poverty.

Over the weekend, the group asked visitors to Free Mapache in a Facebook post saying the feds arrested Salazar to silence him.

Mapache is a dedicated, longtime community activist who has committed himself to fighting deportations, police violence, and corporate exploitation, the post states. He is overflowing with generosity and is always willing to put himself on the line for others. He is only 18 years old, fresh out of high school, and he has already contributed and sacrificed so much for local activism. We ask you to give him all your support as we move forward in responding to this blatant example of State repression.

His arrest comes ahead of a hearing this week in a lawsuit filed by Texas and other states challenging the constitutionality of DACA. The Mexican American Legal and Educational Fund entered the case to defend some DACA recipients because MALDEF says the Trump Administration opposes DACA.

Guillermo Contreras covers federal court and immigration news in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | gcontreras@express-news.net | Twitter: @gmaninfedland
Twenty-two years later, Bexar County District Attorney Nico LaHood believes that Kenneth Foster Jr. still isnt telling the truth.

In 1996, Foster drove the getaway car carrying Mauriceo Brown, who had just shot LaHoods brother to death in the familys driveway. Though Foster didnt pull the trigger, a jury convicted him of capital murder and sentenced him to die. Then-Gov. Rick Perry commuted Fosters sentence in 2007 to life in prison, hours before his scheduled execution.

All Im saying is, I dont believe the man is sincere, LaHood said Monday, three days after the release of a documentary on Foster. Everybody deserves redemption if they want it. Thats the big if. They have to want it.

And there is no reconciliation between anybody without truth. If I offended you, but yet I lie to you to try to make it better with you, thats not true reconciliation.

The second episode of I Am a Killer, a new 10-part Netflix series on death row inmates, explores the case and LaHoods complicated thoughts on the idea of reconciling with Foster, who hopes to meet with LaHood to discuss the matter as he waits for parole eligibility in 2036.

Titled Killer in the Eyes of the Law, the episode also reveals the depth of LaHoods pain after the killing of his older brother, 25-year-old Michael LaHood Jr.  and the role his turn to faith played in recovery.

Here are some of the episodes notable moments.

Challenging evil

After his brothers murder, LaHood said he became a functioning angerholic. He avoided celebrating birthdays and Christmas and felt guilty about laughing. To avoid looking weak, LaHood said he didnt seek help.

There wasnt a time in (Michaels) life on this side of heaven that he needed me more than Aug. 15, 1996, at 2:14 in the morning, LaHood said, referring to the moment his brother was killed. I used to sit outside my driveway with my weapon and challenge evil, the devil, to come back. I said come back now, you son of a (expletive), when Im ready for you, you coward.

LaHood later joined a church at a friends suggestion, marking the start of his turnaround. Since then, LaHoods faith has informed much of his approach to practicing law and played a prominent role during his campaigns for DA.

He found that faith little by little ... started permeating in my spirit.

LaHood acknowledges in the documentary that he would be a hypocrite if I dont believe that someone who is guilty of murder can turn their life around, because Paul the Apostle was a murderer.

I am not a follower of Christ if I dont believe that someone who commits the act of murder can be redeemed, LaHood said. He later said his belief in redemption stems partly from his 1994 arrest  and subsequent deferred adjudication  for selling Ecstasy at a gentlemans club.

In July 2006, LaHood attended Browns execution at the states death chamber in Huntsville.

They ask you, why are you here? And if you want me to say exactly what I said, I said its none of your ... business why Im here, LaHood said. Im here because I want to follow this through. This individual murdered my brother, and I need to see him go to the Lord. I need to physically see him take his last breath and go to the Lord.

Fosters disclosure

At the end of the episode, Foster makes a new allegation: LaHoods brother made an obscene gesture at Brown, Foster and their two accomplices as they sat in a car near the LaHoods driveway.

Foster said he asked Brown whether he would let the affront go unanswered.

I feel that if I hadnt said that, we would have just drove off, Foster said. Im accepting the guilt. Im accepting the blame.

Foster was convicted of capital murder under a Texas statute that, under certain circumstances, holds co-defendants involved in a murder responsible even if they arent the killer. Though Foster and people who advocated for his commutation have said Brown alone committed the murder, a jury found that Foster conspired with Brown to rob LaHood and anticipated the murder. Prosecutors said they consider Foster the crimes ringleader.

LaHood said he believes that Foster introduced this new story that I believe is not true because it supports the claim that Foster and Brown were not carjacking my brother, which would then allow Foster to argue that he wasnt responsible for a capital murder.

Everybody tells me that Kenneth has changed. And that just shows me he hasnt changed, LaHood said. I really hope he truly not just says he does, truly finds a relationship with the Lord and changes his whole mindset. In all these years, that has never come out before.

The law is the law

For the documentary, LaHood said he met three times with Lawrence Foster, Kenneth Fosters grandfather. During the third meeting, LaHood told Lawrence Foster: I have no intention of advocating for Kenneth to get out sooner than he should, just to let you know.

LaHood said that even if he wanted to advocate for Fosters early release  a huge if, which is not going to happen, he said  he has no authority on the matter.

The law is the law, LaHood said. Hes not even eligible, regardless of who wants him out, until 2036.

As for whether he believes that Foster deserves redemption, LaHood said Monday that this is Gods job to decide who deserves anything.

Desire for meeting

Near the end of the episode, Foster explains why he wants to meet with LaHood. Part of the discussion would involve talking through piece by piece what happened that night, Foster said, because when you are really seeking forgiveness, you have to be honest about what you did.

Perhaps at some point in time in the discussion we could have a legal discussion regarding, Was my case deserving of death? Have I done anything with my time to deserve a second chance in society? Foster said.

He added that Mauriceo was just trying to be a showoff. There was no conspiracy to rob anybody.  You dont send one man to rob two people.

LaHood said Monday that Foster has never attempted to meet with him.

If Kenneth Foster reached out to me and said, Hey, Nico, will you come see me? I really want to talk to you about faith, and I want your guidance, and I just want to talk to you, and just you and I get to know each other, I would go visit him on a regular basis and minister to him and be his friend, LaHood said.

Jasper Scherer is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jscherer@express-news.net | Twitter: @jaspscherer
A political action committee sued the San Antonio Professional Fire Fighters Association on Tuesday, alleging that it illegally funded a petition campaign for three proposed charter amendments and asking a judge to block the proposals from going before voters on Nov. 6.

Secure San Antonios Future also sued the unions political action committee and Texas Petition Strategies, the Central Texas firm that was paid $510,000 to manage the petition campaign.

The city of San Antonio was named as a defendant because the council is scheduled next week to call the November charter amendment election. The business PAC is seeking an injunction that would prohibit council members from taking any action.

State law is very clear on this point, said philanthropist and developer Gordon Hartman, who is serving as the business PACs treasurer. Our lawsuit contends that the union leaders funneled money illegally to a company with blatant disregard for the law and that cannot be allowed to stand.

Union president Chris Steele said his organization has done nothing wrong.

Everybody involved has assured me that we followed the law, he said. I think the most important thing is that we know that the power brokers and the politicians down at City Hall will do everything they can to deny the people their voice and a vote.

In a news release, Steele called the lawsuit frivolous and said his opponents were misinformed.

The mayor could and should have voted to place these charter amendments on the November general election ballot at the May 17 City Council meeting or subsequent council meetings, but instead, have stalled and delayed, until the opponents could come up with a misplaced legal challenge, just two weeks before the state deadline to place items on the November ballot, the statement says. This is just one more attempt by opponents to stop the voters from using their voice to speak out against bad public policy and runaway spending of taxpayer money.

City Attorney Andy Segovia said the lawsuit does not allege that the city has done something wrong, just that we are a necessary party to the suit. He added: We will be prepared to present the citys position if a hearing is scheduled.

On mySA.com: Cowboys Dancehall owners make drastic move to save club

The lawsuit, filed by lawyer Mikal Watts in the 150th District Court in San Antonio, seeks millions of dollars in damages  from the San Antonio Professional Fire Fighters Association, the San Antonio Professional Fire Fighters Political Action Committee and Texas Petition Strategies, the Buda firm that handled the petition campaign  for the business PAC and the state of Texas.

Secure San Antonios Future alleges in its filing that the union, its PAC and Texas Petition Strategies illegally spent union dues on political activities and made illegal contributions or expenditures in the name of another.

The San Antonio Express-News reported last month that the union failed to disclose spending $510,000 on its campaign to gather the requisite 20,000 signatures on petitions calling for three charter amendments.

After the report, the unions PAC amended a handful of its monthly campaign-finance filings with the Texas Ethics Commission, indicating that Texas Petition Strategies had made a half-million dollars in in-kind contributions to the union PAC.

Steele and John Hatch, founder of Texas Petition Strategies, later acknowledged that the amended filings were incorrect and that the union had in fact paid the firm for its services.

This month, the union filed a report reflecting this fact. The Direct Campaign Expenditures Campaign Finance Report shows that the union spent $510,000 on services provided by Texas Petition Strategies in February and March, and another $730.66 on Facebook advertisements in support of the charter amendments. The Facebook ads had not been disclosed previously.

Secure San Antonios Future, argues in its lawsuit that the union cannot make a direct expenditure on political activity.

Mayor Ron Nirenberg and other elected officials say the unions proposed amendments would be a devastating blow to local government. If passed, the amendments would: cap the salary of future city managers and place term limits on them; lower the threshold for signatures on referendum petitions, increase the amount of time allowed for gathering them and remove prohibitions against overturning utility rates, tax levies and appropriations; and give the union sole discretion to declare an impasse on contract negotiations and force the city into binding arbitration, removing its right to seek relief in the court system.

Nirenberg said voters deserve to know the source of the funds spent on the petitions.

I am disappointed, although not surprised about the apparent lack of transparency regarding the funds used to pay for the petition drive, he said. The legal case will have to run its course, but San Antonio deserves to know where the half million dollars came from and whether the signatures gathered by out-of-town political professionals were properly collected.

Nirenberg said hell continue to oppose the amendments if the council votes next week to call the November election.

If these proposed charter amendments reach the ballot, he said, I will fight to defeat them and defend our citys future.

Josh Baugh is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jbaugh@express-news.net | Twitter: @jbaugh
Ten local Latinos will be honored on Monday, Sept. 17, for their ongoing contributions and impact to a greater Chattanooga. The 7th Annual Latino Leadership Awards Luncheon hosted by La Paz Chattanooga will be held at the Downtown Chattanooga Convention Center.

The Latino Leaders that will be recognized are:

Carlos Betancourt, Iglesia Bautista de Brainerd (Brainerd Baptist Church)

Carolina Calderon-Cerdas, Aflac

Zuriel Casillas, Gordos Bakery

Emmanuel Escobar, EPB

Monica Griffin, St. Peters Episcopal School

Gus Hernandez, Silverdale Baptist Church

Felipe Lara, Tucker Build

Sgt. Alexis Mercado, Chattanooga Police Department

Jessica Oliva, Calderin & Oliva P.A.

Julian Ramirez, CFC Foundation/Operation Get Active

We are extremely excited to honor this amazing group of Latino Leaders," said Stacy Johnson, executive director at La Paz Chattanooga. This event celebrates leadership, culture and diversity and it continues to be one of my favorite things to do at La Paz.

Through a process of nomination open to the public, the honorees were nominated by peers and colleagues. A committee of past honorees as well as this year's event chairs, Gladys Pineda-Loher of Chattanooga State Community College and Daniela Peterson of Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise, convened to select the 10 honorees of the group of individuals nominated.

In addition to the recognition of these 10 individuals, seven special awards will also be given in the following categories:

Latino of the Year Award (chosen by committee from the 10 honorees)

Chattanoogas Choice Award (Voted from the 10 honorees on by You!)

Community Champion Award

Emerging Latino Leader

Anne Shelton Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award

Compania Business of the Year (new this year)

Compania Entrepreneur of the Year (new this year)

The voting window for Chattanooga's Choice, Compania Business of the Year, and Compania Entrepreneur will be from Aug. 20-Sept. 7. The public will vote via digital form published by La Paz.






Throughout a nearly hourlong episode of I Am a Killer, a new Netflix series about death row inmates, Bexar County District Attorney Nico LaHood speaks with disarming honesty about grappling with the 1996 murder of his brother, Michael LaHood.

Brokenness creates more brokenness, LaHood says at one point, and I thought to myself, Ive got to get (myself) together.

LaHood has always sought to depict his life story as one of personal redemption, most notably through the narrative arc of a drug dealer who became the most powerful law enforcement official in the county. (LaHood was arrested in 1994 for selling 200 Ecstasy pills to an undercover officer; he received deferred adjudication and was elected district attorney two decades later.)

In the case of his brothers murder, redemption for LaHood meant finding peace through faith in God and reconciliation.

I am a hypocrite if I dont believe that someone who is guilty of murder cannot turn their life around, he says in the episode. You know why? Because the Apostle Paul, who wrote two-thirds of the New Testament, used to be Saul of Tarsus, and he was a murderer. So I am not a follower of Christ if I dont believe that someone who commits the act of murder cannot be redeemed. God says he can.

Related: LaHood opens up about brother's murder in Netflix documentary

This narrative is later undermined, however, by LaHood himself, who recalls relishing the execution of his brothers killer and resists meeting with Kenneth Foster Jr., who is serving a life sentence for driving the car in which Michael LaHoods killer fled.

Its a contradiction that not only deepens the tragedy of the murder and its aftermath, but also suggests that Nico LaHoods political undoing this year, sparked by his own righteous anger in an unrelated case, was rooted in the trauma of his brothers death. LaHood lost re-election after his angry outburst in a judges chambers inspired a former business partner to challenge him in the Democratic primary.

Im all for reconciliation in all circumstances, LaHood says at one point in the documentary.

Understandably, though, LaHood was never for reconciliation in the case of Mauriceo Brown. After a night of taking part in armed robberies, Brown got out of a car driven by Foster, walked onto the LaHood familys North Side driveway and shot Michael LaHood in the face. (Foster was sentenced to death for his involvement in the crime, but former Gov. Rick Perry commuted the sentence in 2007.)

In the Netflix series, Nico LaHood called himself a functioning angerholic after his brothers death. He also explained why he attended Browns 2006 execution: This individual murdered my brother and I need to see him go to the Lord. I need to physically see him take his last breath and go to the Lord.

This is pitch-black. Its also entirely human, if not relatable to anyone who has never suffered the trauma of a loved ones murder. It falls short, however, of conciliatory, as does the district attorneys reaction to a request that he meet with Foster in prison.

The idea of meeting with Kenneth Foster, it would be a benefit to him, Im assuming, LaHood tells the filmmakers, adding, I will not expend any resources to do something for him.  Theres nothing he can do to pay me back, so why seek out a debt he cant pay?

Related: How LaHood has become a 'lame duck'

There is no room for redemption here, only reprobation. Perhaps Foster deserves this. In any case, LaHood is clear about why he wont meet with Foster: He believes the inmate is lying.

Kenneth Foster, even today hes saying they didnt know what they were doing (that night), LaHood says. Theres no reconciliation without truth.

Righteousness also fueled LaHoods clash last year with Joe Gonzales, a defense attorney whose legal practice the district attorney allegedly threatened to destroy during a murder trial. LaHood made the alleged threat in a judges chambers after Gonzales learned LaHood had failed to disclose a prosecutors previous sexual encounter with a witness.

The conflict inspired Gonzales to challenge  and ultimately defeat  LaHood in the Democratic primary.

Last year, LaHood acknowledged his outburst at Gonzales, although he denied using the word destroy. He insisted his anger was justified because Gonzales and his partner had threatened to allege prosecutorial misconduct.

Gonzales threat was not sincere, he told me at the time. They dont truly believe its prosecutorial misconduct.  When they close their eyes at nighttime and its only them and God, they know damn well that they dont believe.

I asked LaHood whether he regretted the outburst. Wasnt turn the other cheek a relevant Christian doctrine?

So is eye for an eye, he replied.

bchasnoff@express-news.net
AUSTIN  Citing official lapses in the 2017 killing of a state trooper in East Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday proposed stricter requirements for releasing violent-crime defendants from jail to target people charged with assaulting police officers, and those accused of sex crimes.

Appearing at a Waco event with the widow of slain Trooper Damon Allen, who was gunned down during a Thanksgiving Day traffic stop on Interstate 45 near Fairfield, about 150 miles north of Houston, Abbott proposed modifying laws to emphasize the community, require a magistrate to consider the criminal history of a defendant and allow a magistrate to consider other relevant information, including impact on law enforcement before setting bail for those defendants.

If the plan is approved, Abbott said Texas will take meaningful steps to reform our bail system so that we can better protect innocent life, keep violent criminals off our streets and prevent tragedies like the death of Damon Allen.

Its time for action, he said, flanked by Allen family members and top officials with the Texas Department of Public Safety.

More Information Texas bail facts $60.12: Average cost per day to house an inmate in a county jail (Texas Commission on Jail Standards) $1 billion: Approximate annual cost of housing county jail prisoners who are awaiting trial 20 percent: Share of felony cases that take more than a year to prosecute. Fifty percent of misdemeanor crimes take at least six months 75 percent: Share of the state's county jail population awaiting trial. Twenty years ago, it was about a third. Source: Texas Supreme Court See More Collapse

Targeting only serious-crime cases, Abbotts changes would not affect bail-reform initiatives underway in several Texas cities, including Houston, to ensure that poor defendants charged with nonviolent minor crimes are not kept in jail just because they cannot afford to post cash bail.

Under existing Texas law, bail may be set by any magistrate  from a county justice of the peace to judges in state district court.

Abbott endorsed allowing only district judges and their associate judges, not lower-court magistrates, to set bail in felony criminal cases and misdemeanors involving assault or sex offenses  and require that any courts reviewing bail consider technical issues of mental health and family violence.

Abbott said the Allen case, which has drawn sharp criticism from law enforcement officials across the state, highlights why change is needed.

Dabrett Black, 32, is accused of fatally shooting Allen after he posted $15,500 bail for a felony charge of aggravated assault of a peace officer. Black had rammed a deputys vehicle in July 2017, according to court records. A justice of the peace set that bail, officials said.

There was a warrant for Blacks arrest in late November when Allen pulled him over.

Law enforcement officials and Abbott, a former Houston judge who served on the Texas Supreme Court and as attorney general, have said Black should not have been released from jail. Officials involved with the case have acknowledged that information lapses also allowed Black to post bail in an earlier case, from 2015, in which he was also accused of assaulting an officer.

In many counties, justices of the peace  some of whom are not attorneys  set bail for violent-crime suspects without having full information about the defendant, mental health issues or even pending criminal charges.

Abbott is calling for the creation of a new uniform case management system to allow judges and magistrates to have a full picture of a defendants criminal history and mental health involvements, and alert them to protective orders. He said that system could close critical information gaps, especially in counties of less than 20,000 population. Abbotts plan released Tuesday did not include what such a system would cost.

Missing from Abbotts plan is a no-bail rule for so-called heinous crimes, a controversial provision that would require a change in the state constitution and was dropped in the 2017 legislative session amid opposition from judges, bondsmen and defense attorneys.

Senate Criminal Justice Committee Chairman John Whitmire, D-Houston, who unsuccessfully tried to pass the bail-reform measure in 2017, said he supports what Abbott wants to do but suggested that Abbott should include a call to change the state constitution to deny bail for additional crimes.

You can set million-dollar bail, but human traffickers and cartel members just pay it and leave, Whitmire said. Its a cost of doing business. There are some defendants who should not be released at all, in the interest of public safety.

Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Hecht applauded Abbotts proposal, saying that current law limits judges power to detain high-risk defendants. Texas judges lack sufficient information to effectively scrutinize which defendants pose a threat to public safety and those who dont, he said.

Allen Place Jr., a former Texas House member who is chief spokesman for the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, said bail laws generally are designed to ensure that people charged with crimes show up for their day in court.

These people still have the presumption of innocence under our system, he said.

Even so, he and Whitmire agreed that any changes should consider costs  such as additional staffing required to have district judges set bail for all violent-felony defendants, as well as the costs associated with keeping more people in jail without bail.

We need to be aware of unintended consequences, both for the small counties where district judges may not be available to set bail, and in the large counties, Whitmire said.

A 2017 study commissioned by the Judicial Council chaired by Hecht found that while fewer high-risk defendants were being released from jail, two-thirds of local officials said judges rely heavily on their own gut feeling when setting bail, and 40 percent of judges agreed. Only in six of Texas 254 counties did judges have access to risk assessment information before they set bail, a recent Judicial Council poll showed.

In a statement, Democratic gubernatorial challenger Lupe Valdez, the former Dallas County sheriff, said Abbott's proposed changes "aren't enough . . . We must put in place gun safety measures including universal background checks and red flag laws, which could have kept Dabrett Black from having access to the gun that killed Officer Allen."

Mike Ward covers Texas politics, the governor and executive branch, criminal justice and ethics issues, and investigations for the Houston Chronicle, San Antonio Express-News and other Hearst Texas news organizations. He also co-hosts the leading Texas Take politics podcast. Reach him at Mike.Ward@Chron.com and follow him @ChronicleMike on Twitter.
Re: James puts his mark on education, Sports, Wednesday:

A pity that the article did not feature the ongoing and expanding commitment to educational and character building opportunities by former Spur David Robinson and his family, who have been the quiet foundation for providing a hand-up for so many for such a long time.

Norm Loukinen

Media courageous

Re: Threat from media, Your Turn, July 30:

I am responding to the letter writer who lambasts the liberal media for its criticism of Donald Trump. Most journalists are well-educated, well-informed and courageous. Their truthful comments about this narcissistic, abusive and intolerant man are well-warranted.

He is the first resident of our highest office who constantly rages, brags of his illicit behavior, destroys rather than fortifies alliances with our friends, and praises dictators. He is disparaging of his appointees and public servants, and is wreaking havoc on our democracy and sense of decency. His only god is the almighty dollar.

The writers ridiculous equating of the medias reporting of his lies and destructiveness with a lack of love for our beloved country is a travesty. Remember that all dictators and their worshippers start by abusing and suppressing the media.

Michael Aratingi

A threat indeed

Re: Threat from media, Your Turn, July 30:

This letter about the media threat is spot-on! The narrow-sighted idiots in this country need to look at the whole picture. President Donald Trump has done more for this country than the last four or five presidents combined.

Thanks to the Express-News for finally printing something positive. Weve only got one country, and we better take care of it as President Trump is trying to do.

Michael B. White
The Macedonian Ministry for Transport and Communications has annulled a tender for the granting of financial support for the launch of new routes. Only one airline applied, however, the Ministry noted that the sealed envelopes did not contain the carrier's name and address as outlined in the tender documentation. "The Ministry would like to inform that it will announce a public call for the granting of financial support to air carriers in the shortest possible period, in order to enable the development of air traffic in Macedonia", the Ministry said in a statement. Although the airline in question was not named, Wizz Air was the only carrier to apply for similar state support in both 2012 and 2015. The low cost airline yesterday announced the introduction of three new routes to nearby Pristina.





Under the tender brief, those applying must have handled at least ten million passengers in 2017 and recorded a profit of 25 million euros. The winning carrier must establish and/or maintain a base with at least one aircraft in Skopje and Ohrid by December 1 at the latest for the duration of the three-year financial support program. Furthermore, the carrier in question must launch at least two new routes from Skopje by November 1 and four new routes from Ohrid, the first two by the end of 2018 and the rest a year after being granted state support. The newly launched routes from Skopje and Ohrid cannot be served from the other airport and cannot have been served over the past two seasons. In addition, every new destination introduced at Macedonia's two international airports must be run at least twice per week throughout the year.





The financial support includes a one-time payment of 40.000 euros for each new route launched, as well as nine euros per passengers for each new destination from Skopje for the first year, eight euros during the second year and seven during the third. On the other hand, the carrier will receive thirteen euros per passenger during the first year of operations on a new route out of Ohrid, twelve during the second and eleven euros per traveller in the third year. It is unclear wheather the terms and conditions of the new tender will be changed. The Macedonian government previously said that the "Tender process will be fully transparent", adding that "The focus of this state aid will be on the development of traffic at Ohrid Airport".
Split Airport was the busiest in the former Yugoslavia during the month of July by handling 695.506 passengers, representing an increase of 5.9%. During the first seven months of the year, the airport welcomed 1.716.134 travellers through its doors, up 12.2%. So far, It has added over 180.000 passengers compared to the same period in 2017. It anticipates welcoming its second millionth traveller later this month and its record third millionth passenger by year's end. Split Airport's General Manager, Luksa Novak, previously said, "It took us ten years to grow from one million to two million travellers. Before the war, the airport was handling around a million passengers per year. However, it took us just three years to increase our figures from two million travellers to 2.8 million. In 2018 we will handle three million passengers". Split has cemented its position as the third busiest airport in the former Yugoslavia on an annual basis and was ahead of its counterpart in Zagreb for several months during 2017. However, Mr Novak noted that Split has no ambitions to surpass Zagreb Airport's traffic figures and become the country's busiest. "We want to be an effective regional airport. We need to work to stimulate traffic in the winter months", the General Manager said.
GREENWICH  A man accused of urinating in public on Greenwich Avenue was later found to have stolen tools in his possession.

Fazil Itsinzi, 26, of Westbrook St., Southport, Maine, was urinating in full view of multiple subjects in a bank around 11:15 a.m. Monday, according to the arrest report. A description was broadcast to officers in the area, and Itsinzi, who was wearing black jeans and a hospital-style shirt, was detained. The police report stated he was in possession of a bag of stolen tools from a nearby construction site. A worker later spoke with officers and confirmed that the tools were taken from the job site. The arrest was made on the lower end of the Avenue, near Bruce Park Avenue.
Genworth Financial, Inc. is a financial services company, which engages in the provision of insurance, wealth management, investment and financial solutions. It operates through the following segments: U.S. Mortgage Insurance, Australia Mortgage Insurance, U.S. Life Insurance, and Runoff. The U.S. Mortgage Insurance segment offers mortgage insurance products predominantly insuring prime-based, individually underwritten residential mortgage loans. The Australia Mortgage Insurance segment offers flow mortgage insurance and selectively provides bulk mortgage insurance that aids in the sale of mortgages to the capital markets and helps lenders manage capital and risk. The U.S. Life Insurance segment offers long-term care insurance products as well as service traditional life insurance and fixed annuity products in the United States. The Runoff segment includes the results of non-strategic products which are no longer actively sold but continue to service its existing blocks of business. Its non-strategic products primarily include variable annuity, variable life insurance, institutional, corporate-owned life insurance and other accident and health insurance products. The company was fo

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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.

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Wall Street analysts have given iShares MSCI Belgium ETF 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 iShares MSCI Belgium ETF wasn't one of them. MarketBeat thinks these five companies may be even better buys.

View MarketBeat's top stock picks here.
COLUMBUS, Ohio  As part of the 25th anniversary of the Ohio Department of Agricultures Ohio Proud Marketing Program, Weights and Measures representatives weighed the worlds largest piece of buckeye candy at the Ohio State Fair. The buckeye officially tipped the scales at 339 pounds, defeating the previous record of 271 pounds.

Ohio Proud Partner Marshas Homemade Buckeyes from Perrysburg baked the buckeye on display in the Bulk Candy tent at the Ohio State Fair.

Were thrilled to be marking the 25th anniversary of our Ohio Proud Program and what better way to celebrate than at the State Fair with an Ohio Proud partner and buckeyes, said David Daniels, director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

The buckeyes ingredients included approximately 75 pounds of peanut butter, 75 pounds of margarine, 10 pounds of chocolate and 150 pounds of powdered sugar.

Our family-owned company is so proud to have made the world record sized buckeye, said Matthew Smith, Executive Vice-President of Marshas Buckeyes. As an Ohio Proud company, were honored to make history at the Ohio State Fair.

Marshas will now look to certify the buckeye to be included in the Guinness Book of World Records. The scale used for weighing was provided by Mettler Toledo.
A Northern Irish farmer who has adopted the paddock system to improve grass utilisation calls it the "greatest benefit on the farm".

Enda McLernon, along with his father Peter, run a flock of approximately 200 ewes outside Randalstown on the shores of Lough Neagh, County Antrim.

Enda has adopted many technologies in an attempt to make his farm more efficient and shares his experiences during group discussions at the Sheep Business Development Group (BDG).

Some of the technologies that he has adopted are regular soil testing as he applies poultry litter to correct fertility levels on particular areas of the farm, blood sampling of ewes to determine mineral status and the need for supplementation prior to tupping, silage analysis to determine winter feed requirements and improving grass utilisation.

Improving grass utilisation through paddock grazing has provided the greatest benefit on the farm, and more noticeably during the current drought conditions.

Enda and Peter are both great believers in the paddock system and have been operating a relatively easily managed simple paddock grazing system for 15 years.

'Flexibility in the system'

They have seven paddocks measuring approximately two acres each. The 170 ewes and lambs are moved onto a new paddock every three days or when the grass is eaten down to 4cm.

There is flexibility in the system to allow two day or four day paddocks depending on grass growth.

Enda understands that pre and post grazing heights are very important to maximise grass growth and to maintain grass quality and tries to move the flock into grass around 8-10 cm in height and out again at 4-5 cm.

Enda skipped paddocks in the rotation this summer as grass growth was so rapid. He baled the surplus grass in these paddocks and this enabled him to graze at the proper sward height.

Due to the abnormally dry conditions during July, grass growth slowed dramatically Enda weaned the lambs two weeks earlier than normal giving them priority over the ewes to graze grass.

'The only way'

Peter agrees that some farms are not suited to paddock grazing but cannot understand why those which are suited, dont use paddocks.

He says: Its the only way to properly graze ewes. The dairy man next door has done it for years so why cant I?

Other farmers are put off at the thought of shifting sheep every three or four days, but Peter counters this and says: It takes me five minutes to shift the sheep from one grazing paddock to the next.

"They get used to being moved and when grass is eaten down to 4 cm, its actually harder to keep them in the paddock than to move them out of it.

"At my age Im not fit to run around a 10 acre field after ewes anymore
Tougher laws have been introduced to those who commit animal cruelty offences, with the more serious cases coming with a 5-year prison sentence.

Defra Secretary Michael Gove has today (7 August) announced the tougher sentences for animal cruelty following the results of a consultation.

The consultation gained strong support from welfare groups and the public, according to Mr Gove.

Currently, the maximum sentence is six months but will now be increased by tenfold for serious offences.

It follows horrific news of a sheep having its ears sliced off on a farm near Welshpool and a Cotswold farmer disqualified from keeping animals for five years after pleading guilty to seven "appalling" animal welfare offences.

The draft Animal Welfare (Sentencing and Recognition of Sentience) Bill was put out to consultation in December 2017.

The consultation also set out proposals to ensure animal sentience is reflected in domestic law when the UK leaves the EU.

But in line with the recommendation from the EFRA Committee, earlier this year, legislation on sentencing will be brought forward separately so courts have the powers available to them.

The new sentencing plans are part of wider programme of animal welfare reform, which includes making CCTV mandatorycontrol the export of live farm animals for slaughter.
New statistics show the UKs self-sufficiency has declined reigniting a focus on the need to emphasise home-grow food production.

Today (August 7) marks the notional day in the calendar where the British larder would run bare if the nation was fed only British food from January 1.

New Defra figures for 2017 show Britain produced 60% of its own food, and this rate is in long-term decline.

NFU President Minette Batters has now urged the government to put the nations food security at the top of the political agenda following the release of the stagnating figures.

Food self-sufficiency statistics have always been an important measure of the nations ability to feed itself.

But with Brexit just eight months away, Mrs Batters said the figures shine a new light on the supply of British food.

Real test

British food production has been pulled into sharp focus in recent weeks with farmers across the country wrangling with the impacts of unprecedented dry and hot weather.

Mrs Batters said: This has been a real test for Government to show the farmers and the many concerned members of the public that they think that our ability to produce food in this country is truly important.

We strongly believe that every British citizen should be entitled to a safe, traceable and high quality supply of British food that is produced to some of the highest animal welfare and environmental standards in the world.

Home-grown food production must have the unwavering support of Government if we are to achieve this post-Brexit, she said.

Concerning

The NFU said the statistics show a concerning long-term decline in the UKs self-sufficiency in food.

However, the union said there is a lot of potential for this to be reversed.

The NFU said it recognises the need for importing food which can only be produced in different climates, but emphasises that the farmers must maximise on the food they can produce in the UK.

The NFU President added: The UK farming sector has the potential to be one of the most impacted sectors from a bad Brexit  a free and frictionless free trade deal with the EU and access to a reliable and competent workforce for farm businesses is critical to the future of the sector.

And as we replace the EUs Common Agricultural Policy, we must keep a sharp focus on what productive, progressive and profitable farm businesses need from a domestic agricultural policy, she said.
A campaign aiming to celebrate British food is collaborating with young farmers in a bid to add a "powerful and influential" voice.

The Love British Food campaign is working with young farmers to promote British food to consumers in the build-up to this year's British Food Fortnight.

Running from 22nd September to 7th October, the campaign will team up with the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs (NFYFC) .

Founder of Love British Food, Alexia Robinson said that collaborating with NFYFC "makes so much sense".

"We are so lucky as an industry to have the most incredible network of inspirational young farmers, so many of whom are natural leaders with a strong voice in their communities and on social media, and who are the very best advocates for British food, she said.

Young farmer and NFYFC AGRI Chairman, James Hutchinson said the British Food Fortnight is a "great platform" to remind consumers of the high standard of British farming and to appreciate home produced foods.

Mr Hutchinson said: "Working together, our Young Farmers Clubs have a powerful and influential voice nationally and I urge members to do what they can to support this campaign.

British Food is Great

Earlier this year, Love British Food worked with fourteen young farmers in a #BritishFoodisGreat social media campaign in the build-up to the key food shopping period of Easter.

Now the NFYFC is asking YFC members from across the UK to get involved in phase two of the campaign.

This includes a challenge for young farmers to do one thing to promote British food. This could be as simple as posting a tweet or displaying a #BritishFoodisGreat foam sign or banner at farm gate.

For the more ambitious, it could include visiting their local school to give a talk; or helping a local establishment, such as their local pub, set up a new British supply chain.

Josh Dowbiggin, Love British Food Farming Ambassador said: I am incredibly passionate about British food and farming, so am really looking forward to working with NFYFC and encouraging other young farmers to get involved with the campaign.

We should all be proud to be involved with British food and farming and this gives us the opportunity to promote what we do.
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.
Shama Sikander, who has just returned from Mykonos, Greece, says she is in love with the country so much that she decided to keep it as a theme this year for her birthday party.

Next Story : Celebrate World Pasta Day With Three Yummy Pasta Dishes
Mammootty

Mammootty, the Megastar of Malayalam cinema, has shared a note on his official Facebook page mourning the death of Kalaignar and has written that it is an irreplaceable loss. He has also remembered the meetings that he had with the Kalaignar himself.

Dulquer Salmaan

Dulquer Salmaan, while paying tribute to M Karunanidhi, has mentioned that an era has come to an end. The actor, who grew up in Chennai, has also written that Kalaignar was an essential part of Chennai and Tamil Nadu.

Jayaram

Actor Jayaram too has sent out a note mourning the death of M Karunanidhi. The actor has also shared a picture that was taken when he had met M Karunanidhi.

Nivin Pauly

Popular young actor Nivin Pauly too has sent a note paying tribute to Kalaignar. He called M Karunanidhi a strong leader, a great writer and a simple human being.

Mohanlal

Mohanlal has sent out a note through his Facebook page mourning the death of M Karunanidhi. Mohanlal has mentioned that we have lost one of the most influential persona of the generation. He has offered condolence to Kalaignar's family and associates
Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M Karunanidhi passed away on Tuesday (August 7, 2018) at the private hospital in Chennai, much to the shock of his countless followers. The 94 year old was admitted to the hospital a few days ago, following a decline in his health. While he initially showed signs of improvement, his health soon went from bad to worse and this led to his demise. Interestingly, Karunanidhi was an integral part of not only Tamil Nadu's politics but also its cinema.

Before entering politics, he worked as a scriptwriter and gave the industry some of its best films. His command over Tamil helped him come up with some hard-hitting dialogues that resonated with the masses. As Tamil Nadu mourns the death of a great leader, here's a look at some of the finest films that were penned by Karunanidhi.

Parasakthi

Featuring the legendary Sivaji Ganesan in the lead, Parasakthi is perhaps best remembered for its iconic court sequence. The film heavily touched upon the core ideals of the Dravidian movement and featured a hard-hitting plot. Upon its release, Parasakthi irked a certain section of the society and was even banned.

Raja Rani

Just like Parasakthi, Raja Rai too featured several gripping dialogues and a commendable performance from Sivaji Ganesan. It was helmed by A Bhimsingh and also had Padmini and SS Rajendran in the lead.

Manohara

Loosely based on Shakespeare's Hamlet, Manohara is best remembered for its iconic eight-minute-long monologue, which was written by Karunanidhi and delivered on the big screen by Shivaji Ganesan. In many ways, the film established Karunanidhi as a 'Superstar writer'.

Malaikkallan

The first film to win the President's medal, Malaikkallan featured some energetic dialogues and MGR in three different roles. A mythological drama, it was later remade in various languages and this added to its cult following.
Sara Khan gets HOSPITALIZED on her Birthday; Find out Reason FilmiBeat

Sara Khan has been one of the controversial television celebrities. Recently, she was in news, as her nude bathtub photo went viral on social media. The actress was having some fun time with her sister Ayra Khan in Sri Lanka and that is when the incident took place. The actress had revealed that her sister accidentally uploaded the picture and deleted it in no time, but by that time, the picture had gone viral. Now, yet again, the actress is in news!

Sara was in Dubai recently celebrating her birthday with her sister Ayra Khan and friends. She also shared a few pictures and videos on her Instagram stories. In her recent Instagram post, the actress revealed that she was rushed to a hospital, as she suffered from food poisoning.

Sara Was Rushed To Hospital On Her Birthday Sharing a picture, the actress wrote, "This is how I ended up on my birthday. Yesss this picture is straight from the emergency ambulance  in dubai." - (sic) The Actress Suffered From Food Poisoning She further wrote, "#toomuchofEATINGsucks. I experienced ambulance for the first time and that too on my birthday  #memories #crazy #foodpoisoningsucks #birthdaymadness. P.s m absolutely well now. @immacoolgirll I can't thank u enough love u " - (sic) Sara Celebrating Her Birthday In Dubai Earlier, the actress shared a picture and wrote, "Happy birthday to meee Thank u @morningswithmodupe for making my day Felt really special love u buddy " - (sic) Ayra Wishes Her Sister Sara's sister shared a picture and wrote, "I love you infinite. I'm by you. For you. To you. Happy birthday. #myeverything #mylove." - (sic)

Indian Idol 10: Sonia Gazmer Is Not Hurt For Getting Eliminated, Says Her Journey Starts From Now!
It's no secret US President Donald Trump has tapped his ability to review cross-border mergers and acquisitions as a tool in curbing Chinas expansion globally. As the trade war heats up, it's no surprise China is looking to do the same too.

Beijing's new tactic emerged clearly in late July when, after nearly two years of work on the deal, US chipmaking giant Qualcomm terminated its proposed $44 billion acquisition of Dutch chipmaker NXP Semiconductors after failing to get regulatory approval from the Chinese authority.

A green light from Chinas Ministry of Commerce Mofcom was the last regulatory hurdle for Qualcomm after it received approval from...
Green bond issuance is slowing down this year, with Moody's revising down its forecast for 2018 from $250 billion in new bonds to as little as $175 billion in an August 1 report.

But that doesn't mean everyone is losing faith in green bonds. For governments anxious to meet their commitments under the Paris Climate Accords, or simply to burnish their environmental credentials, they remain a key source of funding.

Take the Australian state of Queensland. The state government issued what was then the biggest ever Australian-dollar green bond in March 2017, and is preparing to dip its toe into green funding waters again.

...
What are the chance of a China-born private equity fund successfully closing a multibillion-dollar fundraising, especially as liquidity notably dries up For most, the odds are extremely long.

But when you take the Alibaba founders influence into consideration, it may be a different story.

Yunfeng Capital, a Shanghai-headquartered private equity firm co-founded by Jack Ma, disclosed on Tuesday that it had closed the $2.5 billion fundraising. According to a filing to the US Securities and Exchange Commissionits, the cash will add dry powder to its Yunfeng Fund III, incorporated in November 2017.

Co-founded by the Chinese e-commerce guru and...
One of the world's leading travel activities and services booking platforms on track to hit US$1 billion in bookings in 2018

HONG KONG, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Klook, a world-leading full-service in-destination booking platform, today announced it has closed US$200 million in Series D funding, bringing its total financing to date to US$300 million. This makes Klook the most-funded company in the tours and activities sector globally. Investors in this round include Sequoia China, Matrix Partners, Goldman Sachs, Boyu Capital, TCV, an Asia-based sovereign wealth fund, OurCrowd, and some family offices. Sequoia China, Matrix Partners and Goldman Sachs also led the Series C in October 2017. The investment further strengthens Klook's position as a global player in the travel sector, and accelerates its expansion in the US and Europe, including product growth and technology innovation.

Founded in 2014, Klook is one of the world's fastest-growing booking platforms, covering attractions, tours, and local experiences as well as local transport and railway services around the globe. It offers travelers more than 50,000 activities and services provided by over 5,000 industry partners in 200+ destinations worldwide. Since closing its US$60 million Series C fund last year, the company has opened offices in London and Amsterdam, and now employs more than 600 people across 16 offices around the world. Its robust growth is driven by the rise of independent travelers and an increasing consumer appreciation for travel experiences. The company is on track to achieve US$1 billion annual bookings in 2018.

Klook will continue to expand its global footprint, with plans to open an office in the US by the end of 2018. The company will also be adding more US and Europe-based curated activities and services onto the platform to fulfill an increasing demand from Asian travelers for diverse and unique in-destination experiences . Simultaneously, Klook will look to bring more US and European travelers to Asia, supporting the company's long-term vision of serving travelers worldwide to easily discover destinations that are both popular and unique.

Klook has been a pioneer in driving travel innovation, developing travel operator solutions such as the Merchant App and QR-code based e-voucher redemption. Klook's technology solutions have been widely recognized and adopted by its merchant partners including world-renowned attractions, mass railway transit and other offline service operators. Klook will continue to collaborate with its merchant partners to further provide frictionless, real-time booking experiences for modern travelers.

"Our mission is to empower travelers to build their own unique journey," said Ethan Lin, CEO and Co-Founder of Klook, "This round of funding marks an important milestone for us. The funding and extensive experience from our new investors will let us to further solidify our merchant portfolio and provide travelers with even more activities and destinations to explore around the world."

"We are committed to using innovative technologies to help digitize the tours and activities industry," said Eric Gnock Fah, COO and Co-Founder of Klook. "The new funding will help us deepen our partnership with merchants through more technological solutions that bring new sources of customers and optimize operational efficiencies."

"By leveraging their strength in digitally transforming their suppliers of tours and activities and tapping into the new generation of mobile-first travelers, Klook is emerging as the clear leader in the online tours and activities sector," said Neil Shen, Founding and Managing Partner of Sequoia China. "We look forward to seeing Klook help more and more travelers connect to suppliers, and become a key source of inbound demand for Asia and beyond."

"TCV seeks to invest in companies with exceptional management teams that drive technological innovation," said David Yuan, General Partner at TCV. "Klook is at the forefront of transforming the travel industry and we've been impressed with the team and the company's growth. We are excited to help them advance their global strategy and expansion."

About Klook

Founded in 2014, Klook is one of the world's leading travel activities and services booking platforms. Klook gives travelers a seamless way to discover and book popular attractions, tours, local transportation, best foods and must-eats, and unique experiences around the world on its website and award-winning app ('Best of 2015' & 'Best of 2017' by Google Play and Apple App Store). With Klook's innovative technologies, travelers can book after arriving in their destinations and redeem the services by using QR codes or e-vouchers. Each day, Klook empowers countless travelers to indulge in their wanderlust and spontaneity through over 50,000 offerings in more than 200 destinations.

With a team of over 600 across 16 offices worldwide, Klook's services are available in eight languages and 36 currencies. It has raised a total of US$300 million investment from world-renowned investors including Sequoia Capital, Matrix Partners, Goldman Sachs, Boyu Capital, and TCV. Get inspired by Klook at www.klook.com, the company blog or @Klook.

About Sequoia China

The Sequoia team helps daring founders build legendary companies. In partnering with Sequoia, companies benefit from our unmatched community and the lessons we've learned over 46 years. As "The Entrepreneurs Behind The Entrepreneurs", Sequoia China focuses on four sectors: TMT, healthcare, consumer/service, and industrial technology. Over the past 13 years we've had the privilege of working with more than 500 companies in China. For more information, visit www.sequoiacap.com/china/en.

About Matrix Partners

With over US$3 billion under management and nearly 100 investment professionals in China, Matrix Partners specializes in early- and mid-stage investments, and has invested in more than 430 companies, among which 25 have been listed, 9 have reached valuation of over US$5 billion, 25 over US$1 billion. Matrix Partners invests mainly in mobile internet, transaction platform, SaaS, AI, FinTech, mobile healthcare, consumption upgrade, new media and social network, and star portfolios include Didi, Momo, ele.me, ofo, Kingnet, Cheetah Mobile, 21Vianet, Bona Films, Guazi, Baofeng, Edan, tubatu, Zhaogang, Yuantiku, VIPKID, PINTEC, 36Kr, etc. Matrix Partners has offices in Cambridge and Waltham, MA; Palo Alto, CA; Mumbai, India; and Beijing and Shanghai, China.

About Goldman Sachs

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. is a leading global investment banking, securities and investment management firm that provides a wide range of financial services to a substantial and diversified client base that includes corporations, financial institutions, governments and individuals. Founded in 1869, the firm is headquartered in New York and maintains offices in all major financial centers around the world. Since 1986, the Principal Investment Area of Goldman Sachs has raised over $140 billion of capital in equity, credit and real estate funds to invest in a variety of geographies, industries and transaction types. With Principal Investment Area representatives in six countries around the world, Goldman Sachs is one of the largest managers of private capital globally, offering deep expertise and longstanding relationships with companies, investors, entrepreneurs and financial intermediaries.

About Boyu Capital

Boyu Capital is a leading Greater China-focused private investment firm with offices in Hong Kong and Beijing. Comprised of a team of experienced investors and business operators, Boyu Capital provides growth capital and strategic support through long-term partnerships with leading entrepreneurs and enterprises, and its portfolio includes some of the largest, best-managed and most innovative companies across the media/technology, consumer/retail, financial services, and healthcare industries in the Greater China region.

About TCV

Founded in 1995, TCV provides capital to growth-stage private and public companies in the technology industry. Since inception, TCV has invested over $10 billion in leading technology companies and has helped guide CEOs through more than 115 IPOs and strategic acquisitions. TCV's investments include Airbnb, Altiris, AxiomSL, Dollar Shave Club, EmbanetCompass, EtQ, ExactTarget, Expedia, Facebook, Fandango, GoDaddy, HomeAway, LinkedIn, Netflix, OSIsoft, Rent the Runway, Sitecore, SiteMinder, Splunk, Spotify, Varsity Tutors, and Zillow. TCV is headquartered in Menlo Park, California, with offices in New York and London. For more information about TCV, including a complete list of TCV investments, visit https://www.tcv.com/.

About OurCrowd

OurCrowd is the leading global hybrid venture capital platform for accredited investors. Managed by a team of seasoned investment professionals and led by serial entrepreneur Jon Medved, OurCrowd vets and selects opportunities, invests its own capital, and brings companies to its accredited membership of global investors. OurCrowd provides post-investment support to its portfolio companies, assigns industry experts as mentors, and takes board seats. The OurCrowd community consists of almost 25,000 accredited investors from over 150 countries. OurCrowd has raised over $750M and invested in 160 portfolio companies and funds.

To download photos and other press materials: https://goo.gl/fN1Bz6

To learn more about our investors, please visit:

Sequoia China: www.sequoiacap.com/china/en/

Matrix Partners: www.matrixpartners.com.cn

Goldman Sachs: www.goldmansachs.com

Boyu Capital: http://www.boyucapital.com/

TCV: https://www.tcv.com/

OurCrowd: www.ourcrowd.com/

For media enquiries, please contact:

press@klook.com

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LONDON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

The US Federal Government continues to take unprecedentedly severe steps to protect its domestic economy in the global trade arena.

Metallurgical coke has been dragged into the escalating situation by way of both a direct tariff, and consequentially, because of tariffs placed on steel. This Insight explores the reasons why the initial and direct impact on metallurgical coke markets will be minimal, and why countries such as Canada would be ill-advised to introduce retaliatory tariffs on coke.

What started in 2017 as a two-pronged investigation under the guise of protecting US's national security and trade performance has escalated into a fully-fledged global trade war. The original jurisdiction of 232 was the application of tariffs on finished steel and aluminium imports into the USA from numerous countries, including neighbours Canada and Mexico. Section 301 was focused on China, with the USA wanting to end what they deemed to be abusive trading practices with regards to their intellectual property and innovation. However, a back and forth of retaliatory measures has seen duties being recently expanded by the USA to target a wider range of Chinese goods from not only ballpoint pens to live eels, but also to the slightly more topical trade of metallurgical coke.

How section 232 has impacted coke markets

CRU holds the view that steel production in the USA will increase as a result of the 25% tariffs imposed on steel imports under Section 232. This includes the restarting of the two blast furnaces (BFs) at the US Steel Granite City site, which have a combined capacity of 2.2 Mt and were idled in 2015 after global Hot-rolled coil (HRC) prices plummeted to levels below production cost. US Steel also shutdown two coke batteries at Granite City at the time the BFs were closed. Built in the early-1980s, the batteries had a combined capacity of 0.5 Mt/y and exclusively supplied the Granite City BFs. These closures are seen as permanent due to the complexities surrounding the reopening of shut coke ovens. As a result, US Steel will need to source coke from either the domestic or global markets to satisfy their newly increased demand. Considering that, in 2017, the net exports of met. coke for the USA totalled ~1.1 Mt, and domestic producers have been operating below full capacity, there should be ample domestic supply to satisfy the greater requirements associated with the Granite City BFs. This will likely be from either the existing supply agreement from Suncoke's Gateway coke operations, or from any excess capacity at US Steel's own coke ovens at Clairton.

Read the full story: https://www.crugroup.com/knowledge-and-insights/insights/2018/metallurgical-coke-markets-unmoved-by-trade-war-tariffs/

Read more about CRU: http://bit.ly/About_CRU

About CRU

CRU offers unrivalled business intelligence on the global metals, mining and fertilizer industries through market analysis, price assessments, consultancy and events.

Since our foundation by Robert Perlman in 1969, we have consistently invested in primary research and robust methodologies, and developed expert teams in key locations worldwide, including in hard-to-reach markets such as China.

CRU employs over 260 experts and has more than 10 offices around the world, in Europe, the Americas, China, Asia and Australia - our office in Beijing opened in 2004.

When facing critical business decisions, you can rely on our first-hand knowledge to give you a complete view of a commodity market. And you can engage with our experts directly, for the full picture and a personalised response.

CRU - big enough to deliver a high-quality service, small enough to care about all of our customers.
ALBANY, New York, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

The global engineering plastic compounds market was valued at around US$ 190.0 Bn in 2017 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of around 8.0% from 2018 to 2026, according to a new report published by Transparency Market Research (TMR) titled 'Engineering Plastic Compounds Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, and Forecast, 2018-2026.' The global market for engineering plastic compounds is driven by rise in the demand for these compounds from automobile component manufacturers. The engineering plastic compounds market in Asia Pacific is expected to expand at a CAGR of above 8.0% during the forecast period. Increase in the demand for lightweight automobiles and growing awareness regarding adoption of electric vehicles in the region are likely to drive the demand for engineering plastic compounds in Asia Pacific during the forecast period.

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Increase in Demand for Lightweight Vehicles

Engineering plastic compounds is a group of compounds with superior physical properties that enhance their performance for extended use in structural applications over an extensive range of temperatures, mechanical stress, and challenging physical and chemical environments. Engineering plastic compounds have light-weighing properties and they are widely used in automotive applications. If the weight of a modern car is reduced by 100 kilograms, its fuel consumption can be lessened by approximately 0.2 liters per 100 kilometers, which ultimately reduces CO2 emissions by around 10 g/km. Thus, weight reduction in automobiles results in enhanced fuel efficiency and performance. Increase in the demand for pollution-free vehicles and light-weight automobiles is expected to drive the global engineering plastic compounds market during the forecast period.

View in-depth table of contents for this report @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/1388

Rise in Demand for Engineering Plastic Compounds led by their Exceptional Characteristics

Engineering plastic compounds are replacing metal components in major automotive and industrial applications. Engineering plastic compounds are primarily used in applications such as stress mechanical components, low-friction components, heat- and chemical-resistant units, electric components, housings, transmission applications, and building & construction applications. These compounds possess self-lubricating features that are suitable for automotive applications such as gears, radiator fans, radiator grills, instrument housings, speedometer gears, fuel & oil filter housings, electrical junction boxes, front fork bushes, and steering column bushes. A few of the engineering plastic compounds such as PC, POM, and ABS offer rigidity and dimensional stability to output components, thereby exhibiting outstanding resistance to high-temperature ageing. These compounds are suitable for high-temperature environments in electronic and industrial applications. Rise in the utilization of engineering plastic compounds in various end-use industries led by their versatile properties is projected to drive the engineering plastic compounds market during the forecast period.

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Asia Pacific to Continue its Dominance

In terms of region, the global engineering plastic compounds market can be segregated into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. Asia Pacific constitutes a significant share of the global engineering plastic compounds market. China is the leading consumer of engineering plastic compounds in the region, as it is a major manufacturing hub for automobile and electronics industries. Rapid industrialization in developing economies such as India, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam is expected to boost the demand for engineering plastic compounds in the next few years. The market for engineering plastic compounds in North America and Europe is projected to expand at a moderate pace during the forecast period.

Ask for Discount on Premium Research Report (US$ 5795) With Complete TOC: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/report-toc/1388

Key players operating in the engineering plastic compounds market include Asahi Kasei Corporation, BASF SE, Celanese Corporation, Covestro AG, and RTP Company. Other prominent players are AKRO-PLASTIC GmbH, Daicel Polymer Ltd., Eurostar Engineering Plastics, Formulated Polymers Limited, Ginar Technology Co. Ltd., HDC HYUNDAI EP COMPANY, KAWASAKI SANKO KASEI Co., Ltd., Ngai Hing Hong Company Limited, Piper Plastics, Inc., Polymer-Group, Polyplastics Co., Ltd., Ravago Americas, Teknor Apex, Trinseo LLC, and WITTENBURG GROUP. These players are focusing on backward integration by expanding their business across the value chain in order to gain market share of the engineering plastic compounds market.

The Global Engineering Plastic Compounds Market can be segmented as follows:

Global Engineering Plastic Compounds Market, by Compound Type

Polycarbonate (PC) Compound

Polyamide (PA) Compound

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Compound

Polyacetal/Polyoxymethylene (POM) Compound

PET Compound

PBT Compound

Polyphenylene Oxide (PPO/PPE Blends) Compound

Fluoropolymer (PTFE and Other FPs) Compound

Polyphenylene Sulfide (PPS) Compound

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) Compound

Styrene-Acrylonitrile (SAN) Compound

Thermoplastic Elastomer Compound TPE-s: Styrenic Block Copolymers TPE-o: Thermoplastic Polyolefin Elastomers TPE-v: Thermoplastic Vulcanizates TPE-u: Thermoplastic Polyurethanes TPE-e: Thermoplastic Copolyesters TPE-a: Thermoplastic Polyamides

Other Compounds

Global Engineering Plastic Compounds Market, by End-use Industry

Automotive & Transportation

Aerospace

Electrical & Electronics

Building & Construction

Consumer Goods & Appliances

Industrial Applications

Medical

Others

Global Engineering Plastic Compounds Market, by Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East & Africa

Browse Popular Research Reports by TMR:

Thermally Conductive Plastics Market : https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/thermally-conductive-plastics-market.html

https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/thermally-conductive-plastics-market.html Plastics Market for Electrical Appliances: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/plastics-electrical-appliances-market.html

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Terveystalo Plc will publish its Half Year report for 2018 on Friday, 17 August 2018 at approximately 9:00 am EEST.

The company will host an audiocast and conference call in English on17 August at 12:30 Finnish time (EEST). You can follow the English audiocast at: https://terveystalo.videosync.fi/2018-08-17-teleconference (https://terveystalo.videosync.fi/2018-08-17-teleconference).

To ask questions, call the conference line 5-10 minutes before the start time: Finland: +358 (0) 9 7479 0360, Sweden: +46 (0) 8 5033 6573, UK: +44 (0) 330 336 9104, United States: +1 323 -794 to 2095. If you call from another location, use one of the numbers above. The passcode is 320579.

Presentations will be held by Yrjo Narhinen, Chief Executive Officer and Ilkka Laurila, Chief Financial Officer.

Terveystalo Plc

For more information, please contact:

Kati Kaksonen, Director, Investor Relations and Financial Communications

Tel. +358 10 345 2034

Kati.kaksonen@terveystalo.com

Terveystalo in brief

Terveystalo is a listed company on the Helsinki Stock Exchange. Terveystalo is the largest healthcare service company in Finland with net sales and network. The company offers versatile primary and secondary health care services for corporate and private customers and the public sector. The nationwide network covers approximately 180 locations across Finland, complemented by 24/7 digital services.

In 2017, the Company had approximately 1.2 million individual customers and approximately 3.3 million doctor visits. Nearly 9,000 healthcare professionals work in Terveystalo, about half of whom are private practitioners. Terveystalo is a member of Association for Finnish Work. www.terveystalo.com

This announcement is distributed by Nasdaq Corporate Solutions on behalf of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients.

The issuer of this announcement warrants that they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and originality of the information contained therein.

Source: Terveystalo Oyj via Globenewswire


A typical 50%+ increase in spending, but shoppers are getting more sophisticated with an

average 62% now checking 'a couple' or 'several' of their prices before committing

NEW YORK and LONDON, Aug 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Periscope By McKinsey, which offers a suite of Marketing & Sales Analytics Solutions to help companies achieve sustainable revenue growth, has today announced the findings of its research on consumer actions, attitudes and behavior during Amazon Prime Day 2018. The research, conducted in the US, UK, France, Germany and Italy, found that consumers are spending more, on more items, and online shopping behavior continues to grow in sophistication.

The survey of 3,000 consumers found awareness of Amazon Prime Day is very high with all countries in the survey reporting over 80% awareness with the exception of France at just 63%. Looking at the continued decline of purely offline shopping, the US trails other countries in its adoption of the online experience with 10% saying they only shop offline. This is more than double other countries, where the average is 4.5%. All countries reported that a mix of online and offline was their dominant way to shop but an average 16% stated they mostly shop online.Germany and the UK led the way in this regard with 21% and 17% respectively.

More participation and spending in Amazon Prime Day

According to the new survey, the US (41%) and Italy (39%) showed the greatest shopper participation in this year's event. Based on our previous annual surveys, Amazon Prime Day participation has multiplied year on year in every country across 2015-2018. Participation had increased a typical 4-5x, with the greatest increase in the UK with a multiple of 6.8. According to Amazon, Prime members worldwide purchased more than 100 million products during this year Prime Day event.

Looking specifically at spending, every country spent more than in 2017. The biggest move was in the UK where 59% of shoppers spent 'a bit more' or 'much more', this was closely followed by France (57%) and Germany (54%). There are also signs the US is becoming more constrained in its spending as the top country where shoppers say they 'spent the same' at 40%.

Shoppers are also buying more items with a majority in every country stating they bought "a bit more" or "much more" product than in 2017. The greatest shift was in France with 62% falling into these categories, followed by the UK (57%), Italy (54%), Germany (49%) and the US (46%).

The sales competition

Whilst Amazon Prime Day may be going from strength to strength, it has lots of online competition when it comes to other sales events. For respondents, Cyber Monday is widely regarded as the top named sale event competitor with an average 44% saying they participate, though it was as high as 65% in the US. In Germany, Mega Monday was the next most participated event (10%), but in the US (30%), UK (21%), Italy (9%) and France (8%) it is Free Shipping Day, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2018. Whilst many feel they get a great deal at Amazon Prime Day, the results show a sophistication in some markets where the convenience of using a single marketplace, and low prices, is not enough to keep them from shopping in 'other' places.

Shoppers are getting smarter

'Consumer Electronics' was the number one shopping category this Amazon Prime Day with an average 48% of shoppers buying these goods. 'Books, Movies and Music' (34%), 'Clothing and Accessories' (37%) and 'Toys' (28%) also featured highly in all countries. 'Beauty and Fragrance' also performed well with an average 28%, followed by 'Kitchen Appliances' at 26%.

Looking at how consumers shopped, those in the UK, US and Italy described themselves as being more planned in their approach to Amazon Prime Day 2018, whereas 53% in France and 48% in Germany considered themselves to be more spontaneous.

But despite some spontaneity, consumers are getting smarter about checking prices outside Amazon before committing to their purchases. On average 62% of shoppers now check 'a couple' or 'several' of their prices. European countries were much more likely to check prices, with France recording the most consumers likely to check several prices (44%).

"There is no doubt that Amazon Prime Day keeps gaining in popularity with huge global awareness, and multiplying participation every year," said Channie Mize, Senior Vice President and Global Sector General Manager, Retail at Periscope By McKinsey. "Shoppers are spending more at Prime Day but they are getting smarter, they are becoming increasingly price aware, and more willing to see what else is available elsewhere online. It is a huge opportunity to Amazon, but other retailers should take heed that with the right sales initiatives and understanding of their customers, they can keep them loyal and coming back for more. But there still is a significant group of shoppers that like to shop spontaneously. Retailers should see this as an opportunity, using personalized marketing and messages to increase the chances of showing shoppers an 'unexpected delight' that they will want to buy."

For complete details on the survey's findings, download the full report, "Beyond the Hype - The Evolution of Consumer Shopping Behaviors", via this link.

Study Methodology

In July 2018, Periscope By McKinsey conducted online research targeting consumers in France (500), Germany (500), Italy (500), the UK (500) and the U.S. (1,000). Respondents were aged between 18 and 70+ and responses were selectively evaluated by age category and gender.

About Periscope By McKinsey

Founded in 2007, Periscope By McKinsey offers a suite of Marketing & Sales Analytics Solutions to help companies achieve sustainable revenue growth. The Periscope By McKinsey platform combines world-leading intellectual property, prescriptive analytics and cloud-based tools with expert support and training. It's a unique combination that drives revenue growth, both now and into the future. The platform offers a suite of Marketing & Sales solutions that accelerate and sustain commercial transformation for businesses. Periscope leverages its world-leading IP (largely from McKinsey but also other partners) and best-in-class technology to enable transparency into Big Data, create actionable insights and new ways of working that drive lasting performance improvement, and typically sustain a 2-7% increase in return on sales (ROS). With a truly global reach, the portfolio of solutions is comprised of: Insight Solutions, Marketing Solutions, Customer Experience Solutions, Category Solutions, Pricing Solutions, Performance Solutions and Sales Solutions. These are complemented by ongoing client service and custom capability building programs.

To learn more about how Periscope's solutions and experts are helping businesses continually drive better performance, visit http://www.periscope-solutions.com/.

For Periscope General information, Christian Koestler, christian.koestler@periscope-solutions.com, +43-1-5370 6342.
The Saidoff Group completed the acquisition of control (47%) in Shikun & Binui from the Arison Group for NIS 1.1 billion

Naty Saidoff: "We will continue to develop operations in Israel and abroad"

AIRPORT CITY, Israel, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Shikun & Binui Ltd. (TASE: SKBN.TA), a global construction and infrastructure company headquartered in Israel, today announced the transfer of control of the Company from the Arison Group to the Naty Saidoff Group, led by American Businessman and Philanthropist Mr. Naty Saidoff. The Saidoff Group acquired the entire 47% stake of Arison Investments in the Company, for a total of NIS 1.1 billion.

Shikun & Binui is Israel's leading real estate and infrastructure company, currently trading at a market valuation of NIS 2.8 billion.

The Company recently announced the win of a tender for the construction and operation of the Israel Defense Forces' Technological Complex, together with Africa Israel Investments for NIS 2 billion, as well as three additional infrastructure projects in Israel amounting to NIS 300 million. In addition, the Company completed a portfolio transaction, establishing a strategic partnership with a number of leading institutional investors that at the first phase, will hold and manage the Carmel Tunnels and the Northern Lanes Project in Israel. As a result of this transaction, the Company recorded a profit of between NIS 250-300 million and generated a cash flow of NIS 588 million. The Company also reported the sale of its share in IKEA store building at Kiryat Ata, Israel at a profit of between NIS 83-88 million, and the completion of the expansion of a bond series, totaling NIS 500 million.

Mr. Naty Saidoff commented, "I am pleased to join the leading construction and infrastructure group in Israel, and I am confident that together with its management and employees, we will continue to develop our operations in Israel and internationally. My goal is to maintain managerial stability at the Company, while placing high priority on continuity of professional and financial activity across all the countries in which Shikun & Binui operates. Shikun & Binui is a strategic holding in the Saidoff Group and we will act in full force to ensure that it will continue and thrive in the future. The transfer of control in the Company was conducted in the best possible way, thanks to collaborative work with Shari Arison and Efrat Peled, as well as all the professional staff at Arison Investments."

Shari Arison, Businesswoman and Philanthropist commented, "Our vision and effort over the years created a unique company, a leading international company, a company with the vision to provide an added value for all people, society and our environment"

Continued Arison, "I would like to thank Efrat Peled, Chairman and CEO of Arison Investments and an outgoing Director at Shikun & Binui, Moshe Lachmani, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Shikun & Binui, Ido Stern, outgoing Director and member of the management team at Arison Investments, Directors Nir Zachlinsky and Tal Atzmon, as well as to all the management, employees in Israel and around the world, retirees and all our partners throughout this journey."

Mr. Moshe Lahmani, commented: "A new era is beginning at Shikun & Binui, and we see the control passing to a pair of good hands. The Arison Group has been with Shikun & Binui throughout the past 22 years in which we became the leading real estate and infrastructure company in Israel, as well as a global company with global business operations. Now, we are turning a new page and I am thrilled to accede to the request of the Saidoff Group to continue leading our Company, while leveraging my experience and my many years of familiarity with its operations. The Company will continue to act to realize its business and strategic goals. I would like to personally thank each one of the thousands of employees in Israel and around the world for their ongoing and challenging work, as well as commitment and results, which have enabled us to continue being a unique and successful flagship company within the Israeli economy."

About Naty Saidoff

Mr. Naty Saidoff is an enthusiastic Zionist, contributing to Jewish and Israeli organizations. He is the founder and chairman of the Israel Support Festival 'Celebrating Israel', the largest Jewish festival in the United States. Saidoff is also a member of the American Jewish Committee and a member of the Board of Directors of Stand with Us, which supports Israel and fights BDS activity.

About the Shikun & Binui Group

The Shikun & Binui Group is a global construction and infrastructure company that operates in Israel and internationally in seven segments: 1) infrastructure and construction contracting outside of Israel; 2) infrastructure and construction contracting within Israel; 3) real estate development within Israel; 4) real estate development outside of Israel; 5) renewable energy; and 6) concessions. The Group's activities focus on large, highly complex projects carried out for entities in private and public sectors with a focus on sustainability.

This summary announcement was prepared solely for the convenience of the reader and does not replace Shikun & Binui Ltd.'s (hereafter - "the Company") full report. The information contained in this announcement is, by its nature, incomplete. All of its contents are provided as a supplement to the Company's report, and are subject to the declarations therein stated. This announcement includes forecasts, assessments, estimates and other information relating to the Company or its subsidiaries, or to other parties or to future events and matters, the extent of whose realization is not certain and is not under the sole control of the Company (forward-looking information, as defined in the Securities Law-1968). The key facts and data serving as the basis for this information are facts and data, among others, related to the current status of the Company and its businesses, facts and data relating to the current status of the operating segments in which the Company engages in its areas of operation, and other macroeconomic facts and data known to the Company on the preparation date of this presentation.

It is understood that forward-looking information does not constitute a fact and is based solely on subjective assessments. Forward-looking information is uncertain and for the most part, is not under the Company's control. The realization or non-realization of the forward-looking information will be influenced, among others, by the risk factors that characterize the Company's operations, as well as developments in the general environment and external factors that impact the Company's operations. The Company's future results and achievements could differ significantly from those presented in this presentation. The Company is not obligated to update or modify the said forecast or assessment, and is not obligated to update this announcement. This announcement does not constitute an offer to purchase the Company's securities or an invitation to receive such offers. An investment in securities in general, and in the Company in particular, carries risk. One must take into account that past data do not necessarily indicate future performance.

IR Contacts:

Company

Inbal Uliansky

+972 (3) 6301058

inbal_u@shikunbinui.com

External IR

Ehud Helft

GK Investor Relations

+1-617-418-3096

shikunbinuni@gkir.com
- GEP recognized for its completeness of vision and ability to execute

CLARK, New Jersey, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- GEP, a leading provider of procurement software and procurement services to Fortune 500 and Global 2000 enterprises worldwide, announced today that Gartner has named GEP a Leader in its report, 2018 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Strategic Sourcing Application Suites.

A complimentary copy of the report is available at www.smartbygep.com/GartnerSSS

"Our product, engineering, marketing and support professionals are relentless in their efforts to provide the best customer experience to the entire ecosystem of SMART by GEP users," said Subhash Makhija, chief executive officer of GEP. "We challenged ourselves to provide the industry's most powerful, most effective unified procurement platform, while creating a beautiful and really easy-to-use 'consumerized' application - that was the impetus behind SMART by GEP.

"The rapidly expanding number of Fortune 500 and Global 2000 companies that are GEP customers," Makhija continued, "underscores the success that we've achieved in bringing together process expertise, thoughtful design and refreshing aesthetics on a world-class platform that easily handles the heavy-duty processing and throughput requirements of the most complex global enterprises."

Makhija noted that SMART by GEP, anchored securely in Microsoft Azure, achieves remarkable levels of performance, scalability and resilience, worldwide.

SMART by GEP provides complete source-to-pay functionality in one user-friendly, cloud-native platform, inclusive of spend analysis, sourcing, contract management, procure-to-pay, savings project management and savings tracking, invoicing and other related capabilities.

SMART by GEP is easy to set up, deploy and use, with no extensive training required. SMART by GEP is platform agnostic (it works with SAP, Oracle, or any other major ERP or F&A system). And with superb support and service, GEP is an industry leader in customer satisfaction.

"Ease of use drives adoption," said Al Girardi, GEP's vice president of marketing and analyst relations, "and adoption drives value. Any noise about a given application's feature set or infrastructure is pointless if the application is rejected by users. We're asking business users to expect and demand more.

"For many users, our platform is essentially a digital workspace, and as such, our customers experience SMART by GEP as 'a great place to work' - and that drives productivity and value for their team and business."

Cloud-native SMART by GEP, purpose-built on a single code base for optimum performance on cloud, leverages cloud economics to deliver a solution that easily handles the heaviest, most complex requirements of GEP's Fortune 500 and Global 2000 clients, while eliminating burdensome infrastructure and support costs.

Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Strategic Sourcing Application Suites, Magnus Bergfors, Patrick Connaughton, et al., 1 August 2018.

Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

About GEP

GEP helps global enterprises operate more efficiently and effectively, gain competitive advantage, boost profitability, and maximize business and shareholder value.

Fresh thinking, innovative products, unrivaled domain and subject expertise, and smart, passionate people - this is how GEP creates and delivers unified business transformation solutions of unprecedented scale, power and effectiveness.

Named Best Provider at the World Procurement Awards and EPIC Procurement Excellence Awards, GEP is frequently honored as an innovator and leader in source-to-pay Procurement software by Forrester, IDC, Procurement Leaders, Spend Matters, PayStream and Ardent Partners.

GEP is also ranked leader in managed procurement services (procurement outsourcing) by Everest Group, NelsonHall, IDC, ISG, HfS and IAOP. In addition, the primary research firm in the management consulting sector, ALM Intelligence, ranks GEP leader in procurement strategy and supply chain consulting.

With 14 offices and operations centers in Europe, Asia and the Americas, Clark, New Jersey-based GEP helps enterprises worldwide realize their strategic, operational and financial objectives. To learn more about our comprehensive range of strategic and managed services, please visit www.gep.com. For more about SMART by GEP, our cloud-native, unified source-to-pay platform, please visit www.smartbygep.com.

Contact

Al Girardi

VP, Marketing & Analyst Relations

GEP Worldwide

Phone: +1 732-382-6565

Email: al.girardi@gep.com
Group Has Extensive Experience and Connections Within Military and Government Procurement Organization

JACKSON CENTER, PA / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2018 / Premier Biomedical, Inc (OTCQB: BIEI) a research based publicly traded biomedical company has signed a sales representative agreement with 4 Your Pain, LLC, a newly formed company whose members have extensive experience in selling medical products to the U.S. Department of Defense and other governmental agencies. The group also has experience and connections in selling to long term care facilities, which Premier Biomedical has targeted for its topical pain relief products. This move augments the growing number of regional sales representatives and local distributors scattered throughout the U.S.

4 Your Pain's executive team released a statement saying that, "We are excited to partner with Premier Biomedical in getting their pain relief products out to the individuals in need of relief from pain they have to deal with on a daily basis. When we made the commitment to assist Premier Biomedical in launching their pain relief products, it was largely due to their approach and ability to deliver products that will increase "quality of life measures" for those in need."

William A. Hartman, President and CEO of Premier Biomedical stated, "The experience and expertise John Porter and his people bring to our sales efforts is remarkable. Their initial focus will be to bring our products to active military personnel to provide them access to effective pain relieving treatments, without the potential for addiction to dangerous and deadly opioids."

Opioids are responsible for nearly 100 deaths per day. Experts project this figure could go as high as 250 deaths per day, if steps are not taken to reduce the spread of opioid use. Testimonies from people who were able to reduce or eliminate their intake of opioid pain killers through use of Premier Biomedical's topical pain relief products can be reviewed at the company's website at www.painreliefmeds.com.

For more information please contact:

William A. Hartman

President and CEO

Premier Biomedical Inc.

(724) 633-7033

w.hartman@premierbiomedical.com

www.premierbiomedical.com/

www.painreliefmeds.com

About 4 Your Pain, LLC

4 Your Pain, LLC is a new company that focuses on partnering new or existing "best in class" products within their therapeutic category. They will target the DOD, government agencies, and Long Term Care facilities for the immediate future. The company is based out of South Carolina and it will be building its portfolio through a partnership with Premiere Biomedical. The focus of the company is on premium products that will provide unparalleled efficiency, tolerability and low side effect profiles for the patients within each respective category.

About Premier Biomedical, Inc.

Premier Biomedical, Inc. (OTCQB: BIEI) is a research-based publicly traded company that intends to discover and develop medical treatments for a wide range of diseases in humans. Premier has obtained, via exclusive license agreements, the technology behind three granted US Patents, multiple pending provisional patents. Founded in 2010, Premier has partnered with the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). In 2016, the company began developing a line of all-natural pain relief products which they began selling in early 2017 to address the rising opioid addiction problem. The company's R&D efforts are centered in El Paso, TX, and their business offices are in Western Pennsylvania. The Company is a fully-reporting issuer whose common stock trades on the OTC marketplace maintained by OTC Markets Group, Inc. under the ticker symbol "BIEI." For more information please visit our website: http://www.premierbiomedical.com/.

Safe Harbor Notice

Certain statements contained herein are "forward-looking statements" (as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). Premier Biomedical, Inc. cautions that statements, and assumptions made in this news release constitute forward-looking statements and makes no guarantee of future performance. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the time statements are made. These statements may address issues that involve significant risks, uncertainties, estimates made by management. Actual results could differ materially from current projections or implied results. Premier Biomedical, Inc. undertakes no obligation to revise these statements following the date of this news release.

SOURCE: Premier Biomedical, Inc.
SAN ANTONIO, TX / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2018 / Camber Energy, Inc. (NYSE American: CEI) (the 'Company' or 'Camber'), based in San Antonio, Texas, a growth-oriented, independent oil and gas company engaged in the development of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids, announced the execution of an Agreement in Connection with the Loan with International Bank Of Commerce ("IBC") effective August 1, 2018. Pursuant to the agreement, IBC agreed to a standstill under its loan with the Company (which has a balance of $36.9 million) and gave its consent to the Company's planned disposition of a substantial portion of its assets in exchange for the buyer's assumption of all of Camber's senior debt with IBC, as previously disclosed (the "Standstill Agreement").

Under the Standstill Agreement, the Company will pay interest on the loan for June and July as well as IBC's legal fees associated with the Loan and the Standstill Agreement. The Company will also pledge to IBC 87.5% of its assets in Okfuskee County, Oklahoma. Additionally, the Company will have until September 30, 2018 to close its transaction with N& B Energy, LLC ("N&B"), the Company associated with Camber's former CEO and Director, Richard N. Azar, II, and another former director, Donnie B Seay, both guarantors under the IBC Loan, unless extended due to regulatory requirements or the mutual agreement of all parties. In the event that the closing of the N&B acquisition does not occur, the Company can transfer the assets to IBC or its designee under substantially similar terms and conditions.

Also on August 3, 2018, the Company and N&B entered into a First Amendment to Asset Purchase Agreement (the "First Amendment"), which amended the terms of the July 12, 2018 Asset Purchase Agreement (the "Sale Agreement") to (a) modify, clarify and replace certain of the exhibits to the original Sale Agreement, including the terms of the overriding royalty interests and production payment agreed to be granted to the Company as part of such Sale Agreement; (b) amend the Sale Agreement to remove the requirement that the Company obtain shareholder approval prior to the closing of such Sale Agreement; and (c) include a deadline of August 31, 2018 for the completion of N&B Energy's due diligence under the Sale Agreement.

In the event the transaction closes or the Company transfers its assets to IBC, the Company will retain its assets in Glasscock County and Hutchinson Counties, Texas and will also retain a 12.5% production payment (subject to a maximum of $2.5 million) and a 3% overriding royalty interest in its existing Okfuskee County, Oklahoma asset. In addition, Camber will be retaining an overriding royalty interest on certain undeveloped leasehold interests. Camber is also continuing to evaluate additional acquisition opportunities which will further enhance the Company's growth plans, funding permitting.

Additionally, if the transaction closes or the Company transfers its assets to IBC, the Company will be granted a novation from the obligation to pay the debt owed to IBC, which will significantly enhance the Company's balance sheet and cash flow by eliminating all future debt service payments.

The Company has determined that under Nevada law, it is not required to seek shareholder approval for the transaction.

The Interim CEO of Camber, Louis G. Schott, noted, "The Company hopes to close the transaction by the middle of September 2018, allowing Camber to significantly improve its balance sheet and position itself towards regaining compliance with the continued listing standards of the NYSE American.'

Mr. Schott continued, 'This should also position the Company for future growth through acquisition and development opportunities.'

About Camber Energy, Inc.

Based in San Antonio, Texas, Camber Energy (NYSE American: CEI) is a growth-oriented, independent oil and gas company engaged in the development of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids in the Hunton formation in Central Oklahoma in addition to anticipated project development in the Texas Panhandle. For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.camber.energy .

Safe Harbor Statement and Disclaimer

This release includes 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations, opinions, belief or forecasts of future events and performance. A statement identified by the use of forward-looking words including 'will,' 'may,' 'expects,' 'projects,' 'anticipates,' 'plans,' 'believes,' 'estimate,' 'should,' and certain of the other foregoing statements may be deemed forward-looking statements. Although Camber believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual future activities and results to be materially different from those suggested or described in this news release. These include risks inherent in natural gas and oil drilling and production activities, including risks of fire, explosion, blowouts, pipe failure, casing collapse, unusual or unexpected formation pressures, environmental hazards, and other operating and production risks, which may temporarily or permanently reduce production or cause initial production or test results to not be indicative of future well performance or delay the timing of sales or completion of drilling operations; delays in receipt of drilling permits; risks with respect to natural gas and oil prices, a material decline which could cause Camber to delay or suspend planned drilling operations or reduce production levels; risks relating to the availability of capital to fund drilling operations that can be adversely affected by adverse drilling results, production declines and declines in natural gas and oil prices; risks relating to unexpected adverse developments in the status of properties; risks associated with the conditions to closing required to be met to obtain all but the initial $11 million due pursuant to the terms of the Stock Purchase Agreement; risks relating to the absence or delay in receipt of government approvals or third party consents; and other risks described in Camber's Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC, available at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the date hereof. The Company takes no obligation to update or correct its own forward-looking statements, except as required by law, or those prepared by third parties that are not paid for by the Company. The Company's SEC filings are available at http://www.sec.gov.

SOURCE: Camber Energy, Inc.
LONDON, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Cornercard UK, the United Kingdom's leading business-to-business prepaid card specialists, today announces its partnership with Samsung Pay, the mobile payment and digital wallet service.

In response to demand from consumers for contactless payment solutions that are fast, convenient and secure, Cornercard UK is now available within Samsung Pay[1], increasing its provision of a seamless, convenient payment experience. The integration of Samsung Pay sees Cornercard UK expand its pre-existing contactless functionality by allowing customers to use their compatible Samsung device to purchase goods and services securely.

Samsung Pay is easy to set up and users will continue to receive all the rewards and benefits offered by Cornercard UK.

Samsung's industry-leading Knox security platform is built into the hardware and software of the device, which ensures mobile information and data is secure. Each transaction uses an encrypted digital token to replace sensitive card data, and every transaction is authorised by a fingertip scan, six-digit code, or an iris scan[2].

"The launch of Samsung Pay offers our customers an easy and secure payment solution across more devices, simplifying everyday life," says Chris Adams, CEO of Cornercard UK. "We're delighted to be able to offer these digital wallet services as part of our service and commitment to addressing the needs of our customers."

[1]Samsung Pay functionality is currently available with the Galaxy S9+, S9, Note8, S8+, S8, S7 edge, S7, S6 edge+, S6 edge, S6, A8, A5 2017 & A3 2017. Samsung Pay is also available on the Gear S3 and Gear Sport smartwatches (when paired with a compatible smartphone, running Android 4.4 KitKat and above)

[2]Currently available on the Samsung Galaxy S9+, S9, Note8, S8+, S8

AboutCornercard UK:

Cornercard UK Ltd., established in 2013 and based in London, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Corner Bank. Founded in Lugano in 1952, Corner Bank Group is an independent Swiss private bank group operating on the national market as a full-service bank. It is a universal bank with more than 1,200 employees, four branches in Switzerland, and an affiliate in Nassau (Bahamas). Active across the range of traditional banking services, Corner Bank Group specialises in the Private Banking sector, as well as in the areas of lending, Visa, Mastercard and Diners Club payment cards (Cornercard), and online trading (CornerTrader).

About Samsung Pay:

Samsung Pay is Samsung Electronics (UK) Ltd.'s digital wallet, which enables customers to make purchases directly in a safe, simple and convenient way. Its biometric security functions and NFC provide privacy and peace of mind. Additionally, Samsung's industry-leading Knox security platform is built into the hardware and software of devices to ensure mobile information and data is secure.

Samsung has worked with Transport for London to allow Samsung Pay users to set a payment card up as 'transport card' to use on all TfL services and most National Rail services in London. Users are also able to upload their loyalty cards at selected merchants across the UK, to accumulate and redeem points.

Cornercard UK Press & Media Contact:

Christopher Adams - CEO

chris.adams@cornercard.co.uk

+44(203)-626-0083
PALM BEACH, Florida, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

MarketNewsUpdates.com News Commentary

As blockchain technology continues to transform a growing number of industries, the cost-effective data processing is allowing data center developers to run more efficiently including increasing power use capabilities. Operations have exploded overseas including in China, but now the United States has an amazing opportunity to step up and start taking part in creating mega facilities, or data centers with high computational power for mining that supports the transactions on the blockchain, hopefully diluting China's position in the blockchain market and giving the U.S. a bigger piece. Crypto mining is the necessary computational process of approving cryptocurrency transactions to ensure the integrity of the network since there is no centralized authority overseeing the blockchain ledger network. The rise of blockchain technology, especially for use in crypto mining, means data centers and cloud management services have to adjust to the changing realities on the ground conducive to offering sustainable infrastructures for power. Active tech companies in the markets this week include Mining Power Group, Inc. (OTC: RCGR), Global Blockchain Technologies Corp (OTC: BLKCF) (CSE: BLOC), Pareteum Corp (NYSE: TEUM), MGT Capital Investments Inc. (OTC: MGTI), Big Blockchain Intelligence Group Inc. (OTC: BBKCF) (CSE: BIGG).



Mining Power Group, Inc. (OTCPK: RCGR) BREAKING NEWS: Mining Power Group announced today that it acquired the majority ownership interest of upstate New York technology company, Northway Mining, LLC, ("Northway") which offers highly specialized data center hosting services for thousands of cryptomining machines. Northway, which will become a subsidiary of the Company, presently has revenues from its existing clients and also from an ever-increasing number of new clients.



Included as part of the acquisition are real estate assets of substantial value from the purchase of the buildings in which Northway operates and a future building into which it will expand. In addition, included are 30 acres of surrounding flat land that will be used for future expansion of Northway as well as for the placement of industrial containers to house 1000's of additional mining machines for clients.



Under the terms of the transaction, Northway will maintain its current management and the Company will invest funds for the expansion of its facilities. Additional details of the pending transaction were not disclosed but will be included in an upcoming 8K filing.



Separately, the Company is in negotiations for a similar purchase of a majority interest in an unrelated privately-held company involved in the development of products for the cryptomining industry. Results of the negotiations will be announced at a later date.



Dror Svorai

Shidan Gouran

$301 Million

$46 Million

July 2017

$61 million

Hal Turner

Stephen Schaeffer

Miami

Sweden

Washington State

forty nine hundred dollars

, President and CEO, stated, "This is something that we had been working on for a while and we are so glad to finally complete this transaction. We have not only entered the data center market but we have done it in a big way that allows us to immediately begin a rapid ramp up of revenues. R(OTCPK: BLKCF) (CSE: BLOC.CN) recently announced an update on its exchange-related activities, which include interests in multiple cryptocurrency exchanges, as well as pending deals for the development of additional new exchanges. President and CEOstated "Our interests in this category form part of an additional and potentially stand-alone, critical mass business line for the company. As the assets continue to grow and mature, we believe the Company has put into place the right corporate structure to provide for a potential spinout of the Division in the future."(NYSE: TEUM) recently announced that its current 36-Month Contractual Revenue Backlog (36MCRB) has grown to an astonishing. Pareteum has addedto its 36MCRB with ten (10) new customer agreements the last 36 days. Achieving this tremendous milestone represents a 393% increase from a year earlier, when in, our 36MCRB was, Executive Chairman and Principal Executive Officer of Pareteum stated, "Our customers are telling us that 'telecom needs to change'. We have been listening. We are 'software', and, that is what has changed, and will even more disruptively continue to change how we receive content and communicate. Pareteum, and, its Global Software Defined Cloud, have made dramatic leaps forward in fulfilling our vision of software-driven open mobility and applications that make our customers happy.(OTCQB: MGTI), Chief Operating Officer of the Company recently hosted a "fireside chat" at the Crypto Mining Forum infielding questions on multiple topics related to the bitcoin mining ecosphere. Sponsored by Bitmain Technologies Inc., the Crypto Mining Forum was an invitation-only gathering of the top bitcoin mining industry participants in the crypto mining industry from the Americas. Operating in facilities in northernand, MGT Capital Investments, Inc. (MGTI) ranks as one of the largest U.S. based Bitcoin miners. MGT owns and operates approximately 6,800 Bitmain S9 miners, and 50 GPU-based Ethereum mining rigs. Further, the Company continues to execute on an expansion model to secure low cost power and grow its crypto assets materially.(OTCPK: BBKCF) (CSE: BIGG.CN) recently announced it has signed Client, Reseller and Referral Partner agreements with global data verification specialist, Data Zoo, related to BIG's crypto wallet risk-scoring service BitRank VerifiedTM, blockchain forensic investigation platform QLUETM, and custom Forensic Services Division. Under the Client Agreement and Reseller Agreement, BIG will be paid a fee for API queries on crypto wallets that utilize BIG's BitRank VerifiedTM service.DISCLAIMER: MarketNewsUpdates.com (MNU) is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. MNU is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. MNU and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. MNU's market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. MNU is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed MNU has been compensatedfor news coverage of the current press releases issued by Mining Power Group Inc. by a non-affiliated third party. MNU HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. "Forward-looking statements" describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "may", "future", "plan" or "planned", "will" or "should", "expected," "anticipates", "draft", "eventually" or "projected". You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company's annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and MNU undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

Contact Information:

Media Contact

email: info@marketnewsupdates.com

+1(561)325-8757


The Non-Traditional and Emerging Transportation Technology Council will work to identify and resolve jurisdictional and regulatory gaps which will help bring the technology to commercialization

Virgin Hyperloop One looks forward to continuing to work with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Secretary Chao to move hyperloop forward in the U.S.

AUSTIN, Texas, March 12, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Non-Traditional and Emerging Transportation Technology Council, which aims to explore the regulation and permitting of hyperloop technology to bring this new form of mass transportation to the United States, was announced by DOT Secretary Elaine Chao today at South by Southwest.

Virgin Hyperloop One has been engaged with the DOT and Secretary Chao for months, taking the necessary steps to commercialize this technology in the U.S. This council is the culmination of months of work at the federal, state, and local level.

"I want to thank Secretary Chao for her leadership setting up this forward-thinking council at DOT," said Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group. "Virgin Hyperloop One is eager to continue working with the Secretary and her team. Through our recent conversations it is clear she wants to be at the forefront of exploring innovative technologies to improve transportation in the United States."

As hyperloop is a new mode of mass transportation, it requires a forward-thinking consortium to bring this to commercialization in the U.S. While some components are similar to rail, there are other components like cabin pressurization that look similar to a plane. The council will explore how to integrate expertise across the Department to expedite or facilitate these projects moving forward.

"Hyperloop is a new mode of transportation that is built for the 21st century," said Jay Walder, CEO of Virgin Hyperloop One. "We want to be the company that spearheads the next giant leap forward in transportation here in the United States but we know we can't do it alone. We applaud the DOT for their support of this technology."

Alongside hyperloop, the council will explore emerging technologies like tunneling, autonomous vehicles, and other innovations. The council will ensure that the traditional modal silos at the DOT do not impede the deployment of new technologies.

"New technologies increasingly straddle more than one mode of transportation, so I've signed an order creating a new internal Department council to better coordinate the review of innovations that have multi-modal applications," said Secretary Chao.

The council will hold its first planning meeting this week, and will be chaired by Deputy Secretary Jeffrey Rosen and vice chaired by Undersecretary of Transportation for Policy Derek Kan. Other seats will be occupied by modal administrators and other high-ranking DOT officials.

About Virgin Hyperloop One

Virgin Hyperloop One is the only company in the world that has successfully tested its technology at scale, launching the first new mode of mass transportation in over 100 years. The company successfully operated a full-scale hyperloop vehicle using electric propulsion and electromagnetic levitation under near-vacuum conditions, realizing a fundamentally new form of transportation that is faster, safer, cheaper, and more sustainable than existing modes. The company is now working with governments, partners, and investors around the world to make hyperloop a reality in years, not decades. They currently have projects underway in Missouri, Texas, Colorado, the Midwest, India, and the UAE. Learn more about Virgin Hyperloop One's technology, vision, and ongoing projects here .

Press Contact

Ryan Kelly

Head of Marketing and Communications

Virgin Hyperloop One

ryan.kelly@hyperloop-one.com

(610) 442 1896
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2018 / iMobile Solutions, Inc., a subsidiary of Sparta Commercial Services, Inc. (OTC PINK: SRCO), today announced that, to help provide shoppers with peace of mind, Motorcycles on Autotrader, an Autotrader offering with online classifieds for new and used motorcycles, and other resources for enthusiasts, now gives consumers easy access to Motorcycle History Reports through Cyclechex on the majority of its dealer and private seller listings. Like any major purchase, shopping for a motorcycle requires research, including pricing, available inventory and vehicle condition, if previously owned. However, without a vehicle's history, buyers don't have the full view of a motorcycle's history.

'Working with Cyclechex, our motorcycle shoppers now have even more valuable information to help make an informed purchase decision,' said Thomas Wadley, product manager for Motorcycles on Autotrader. 'Investing in a vehicle history report could make or break a purchase decision, helping prevent headaches down the road.'

Cyclechex Motorcycle History Reports include the motorcycle's title brand history, any reported odometer readings, whether the motorcycle has been reported as 'salvage' or a 'total loss' by an insurance company, reports from vehicle recyclers who may have handled the motorcycle, vehicle specifications, access to the manufacturer's recall history, and more.

'Our Motorcycle History Report has proven to be an invaluable source of information for people who are considering the purchase of a used motorcycle,' said Anthony Havens, president of iMobile Solutions, Inc. 'With our exciting new relationship with Motorcycles on Autotrader, and the trust they instill in the marketplace, we're anticipating another major milestone for Cyclechex and its ability to reach a broader consumer market for our product.'

For more information on this new offering, visit Motorcycles on Autotrader at www.motorcycles.autotrader.com, or Cyclechex at www.cyclechex.com.

About Cyclechex

Cyclechex (www.cyclechex.com) is a product offered by iMobile Solutions, Inc. providing comprehensive vehicle title history reports to consumers, dealers, insurance companies, credit unions and more. The reports are trusted by industry professionals to provide timely and thorough title history reports. iMobile Solutions' other motor vehicle markets served are recreational vehicles (RV's) www.rvchecks.com and commercial or heavy-duty trucks www.truckchex.com.

About Sparta Commercial Services, Inc.

Sparta Commercial Services, Inc. (www.spartacommercial.com), through its subsidiary, iMobile Solutions, Inc., provides comprehensive vehicle title history reports to dealers, insurance companies, credit unions and consumers. Sparta, via its iMobileApp product (www.imobileapp.com), has also become a leader in developing and servicing custom mobile apps for a wide range of businesses including restaurants, liquor stores, racetracks, and clubs; as well as vehicle dealerships including Harley-Davidson and John Deere. Other mobile communications products offered by Sparta include website design, development, hosting and SEO services, and a text messaging and alert service. Sparta's Municipal Leasing Division (www.spartamunicipal.com) offers and administers a specialized municipal leasing program for local and state agencies with jurisdictions seeking a better way to finance their growing essential equipment needs such as police motorcycles and cruisers, EMS equipment and busses, and any type of equipment a municipality requires.

About Autotrader

Autotrader is the most visited third-party car shopping site, with the most engaged audience of in-market shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered consumer looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or Certified Pre-Owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing solutions guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience. Autotrader is a Cox Automotive brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com.

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling and owning cars easier for everyone. The global company's 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader , Dealer.com, Dealertrack, Kelley Blue Book, Manheim, NextGear Capital, VinSolutions , vAuto and Xtime, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. Visit coxautoinc.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such statements are valid only as of today and we disclaim any obligation to update this information. Actual results may differ significantly from management's expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to potential future losses, competition, financing and commercial agreements and strategic alliances, seasonality, potential fluctuations in operating results and rate of growth, management of potential growth, system interruption, consumer and industry trends, limited operating history, and government regulation. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by the Company or any other person that the objectives and plans of the Company will be achieved. Further information regarding these and other risks is described from time to time in the Company's filings with the SEC, which are available on its website at: http://www.sec.gov.

Company Contact:

Sandra L. Ahman

Corporate Secretary

Sparta Commercial Services, Inc.

sandy@spartacommercial.com

800-882-0778

SOURCE: Sparta Commercial Services, Inc.
LONDON, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Forecasts by Packaging Material (Flexible Packaging, Glass, Metal, Board, Rigid Plastics, and others), by Packaging Products (Plastic Bottles, Pumps & Sprays, Glass Bottles & Jars, Cosmetic Cases, Tubes, Lids, Caps, & Closures, Corrugated Board, and Others), by Application (Bath and Shower Preparations, Colour Cosmetics, Deodorants and Antiperspirants, Depilatories, Fragrances, Hair Care, Men's Grooming, Oral Care, Skin Care, and Sun Care) Plus Financial Analysis of Leading Companies and Regional and Leading National Market Analysis

The global personal care packaging market is expected to reach $28.1bn in 2018 and develop dynamically over the forecast period, driven by emerging economies. Visiongain scrutinises the 17 leading national markets revealing where the business opportunities are: Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Rest of Asia-Pacific, Rest of Europe, Rest of LAMEA, Russia, South Africa, Spain, UK and the USA. Furthermore, the personal care packaging market will be driven by a growth in sustainable packaging, a higher demand by males for personal care products, customised applications that match customers' values and identity, a higher expenditure by ageing populations, greater consumption by millennials, and more demand for premium products.

(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/523989/Visiongain_Logo.jpg )



This report answers questions such as:

 How is the personal care packaging market evolving?

 What is driving and restraining personal care packaging market dynamics?

 What are the market shares of the materials/applications that make up the personal care packaging submarkets in 2018?

 How will each material/application submarket grow over the forecast period and how much revenue will these submarkets account for in 2028?

 Which trends and developments will prevail and how will these shifts be responded to?

 How will political and regulatory factors influence the regional markets and submarkets?

 Will leading national personal care packaging markets broadly follow the macroeconomic dynamics, or will individual country sectors outperform the rest of the economy?

 Who are the leading players and what are their prospects over the forecast period?

 What are the predictions for M&A activity, consolidation for existing players and the potential prospects for new market entrants?

Reasons why you must order and read this report today:

1. The report provides detailed profiles of 13 leading companies operating within the personal care packaging market:

- Albea

- ALLTUB

- Amcor Ltd

- ARGO SA

- Berry Global Inc.

- CKS Packaging, Inc.

- DS Smith

- Gerresheimer AG

- Graham Packaging Company

- HCP Packaging

- Plastipak Holdings, Inc.

- Resilux NV

- RPC Group

2. Our report also forecasts the Global Personal Care Packaging Market 2018-2028

- Personal Care Packaging Market: Drivers and Restraints.

- Personal Care Packaging Submarkets Share Forecast by Material 2018-2028 (%)

- Personal Care Packaging Submarkets Share Forecast by Packaging Products 2018-2028 (%)

- Personal Care Packaging Submarkets Share Forecast by Application 2018-2028 (%)

- Personal Care Packaging Regional Share Forecast 2018-2028 (%)

3. The study reveals the personal care packaging market forecast by leading national markets from 2018 to 2028

- Brazil

- Canada

- China

- France

- Germany

- India

- Italy

- Japan

- Mexico

- Rest of Asia-Pacific

- Rest of Europe

- Rest of LAMEA

- Russia

- South Africa

- Spain

- UK

- USA

4. Our analysis also forecasts the personal care packaging market by packaging material 2018-2028

- Flexible Plastic Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Board Plastic Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Glass Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Metal Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Rigid Plastic Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Other Closures Personal Care Packaging Materials Submarket Forecast

5. Our overview also forecasts the personal care packaging market by application 2018-2028

- Hair Care Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Bath & Shower Preparations Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Oral Care Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Skin Care Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Depilatories Personal Care Packaging Materials Submarket Forecast

- Men's Grooming Personal Care Packaging Materials Submarket Forecast

- Sun Care Personal Care Packaging Materials Submarket Forecast

- Colour Cosmetics Personal Care Packaging Materials Submarket Forecast

- Deodorants and Antiperspirants Personal Care Packaging Materials Submarket Forecast

- Fragrances Personal Care Packaging Materials Submarket Forecast

6. Our overview also forecasts the personal care packaging market by packaging products 2018-2028

- Plastic bottles Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Glass Bottles & Jars Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Cosmetic Cases Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Tubes Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Pumps & Sprays Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Lids, Caps & Closures Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

- Others Personal Care Packaging Submarket Forecast

How will you benefit from this report?

This comprehensive report will:

 Enhance your strategic decision making

 Allow you to understand the potential business opportunities in the market

 Show which emerging market opportunities to focus upon.

 Increase your Industry knowledge and positioning in the market

 Run a successful new marketing strategy

 Build new partnerships available in the market

 Keep you up to date with crucial market developments and issues

 Allow you to develop informed growth strategies

 Build your technical and management market insight

 Illustrate trends to develop new business opportunities

 Strengthen your analysis of competitors' innovation and market penetration.

 Provide risk analysis, helping you avoid the pitfalls other companies could make

 Ultimately, engage effectively with your stakeholders - internal and external

Competitive advantage

This independent, 223-page report guarantees you will remain better informed than your competition. With 246 tables, charts & graphs examining in detail the prospects for the global personal care packaging market. The report gives you an immediate, one-step breakdown of your market. As well as analysis, from 2018-2028 keeping your knowledge that one-step ahead of your rivals.

Don't miss out

This report is essential reading for you or anyone in the personal care packaging sector with an interest such as: to stand out of the competitors, looking for investment opportunities, to develop new marketing strategies within the industry having a better knowledge of the personal care packaging market drivers.

Find new business and market opportunities within our new report now.

To request a report overview of this report please contact Sara Peerun at sara.peerun@visiongain.com or refer to our website: https://www.visiongain.com/report/personal-care-packaging-market-report-2018-2028/

3D Technopack

ACE Corporation

Adchem Corp

AEP Industries Inc.

Albea

ALLTUB

Alpha Group

Amcor Ltd.

Aptar Group, Inc.

ARGO SA

Arsmetallo

Astrapack

Bapco Closures

Baralan International

Baring Private Equity Asia Ltd

Berlin Packaging

Berry Global Inc.

Bisioprogetti

Borden

British Polythene Industries PLC (BPI)

Brivaplast

Chick-Fil-A

CKS Packaging Inc.

Coca-Cola

Collcap Packaging

Coradin

Cosmogen SAS

Cosmopak

CPL Packaging

Dean Foods

Derjin

DS Smith

Dunmore

ESE World

EsselPropack

Eurovetrocap

Ever Rich fountain Enterprise Co., Ltd.

Express tubes

Fasten

FSKOREA

Fusion Packaging

George MENSHEN GmbH & Co. KG

Gerresheimer AG

Giflor

Global Closure Systems

GoTwist

Graham Packaging Company

Gram GmbH

Greiner Packaging

GTX Hanex Plastic Sp. Z O.O.

Guardian Drug Company

HCP Packaging

HCT Packaging Inc.

Ileos Group

Inca Packaging

InduPlast SpA

INOAC Packaging Group Inc.

Karl Holl

Kaufman Container

Kjaer Weis

Kroger

L4Belle

Lameplast group

Leo Luxe

Letica

Libo Cosmetics

Lo Mei Cosmetics

Loire Plastic Industrie

Louvrette GmbH

M&H Plastics

Maynard & Harris Plastics

MJS Packaging

Modulpac

Mold-Rite Plastics

Molpack

Neopac Hungary Ltd.

Neopac The Tube

Nest Filler

Neville and More

Ningbo Jinzhou

Obeck Verpackungen GmbH

Pak 2000

Parker Plastics

Parkway Plastics

Partnerplus Packaging

PET Power

Plastiape

Plastipak Holdings, Inc.

Promens Group AS

Pujolasos

Pum-Tech Korea

Quadpack

Resilux NV

Retal Industries

Rexam Personal Care

Rexam Plc

Rieke Packaging Systems

Roberts Beauty

RPC Group PLC

RPC Manuplastics

RPC Promens

Rusi

Seacliff Beauty

Selective Packaging Ltd.

SGD Group

SHB Packaging

Silgan Holdings

SKS Bottle & Packaging

Sone Products

Sonoco Products

SR Packaging

StakPlast Ltd.

Stull Technologies

Sun Capital Partners

Superfos

Tesem

Texen

The German Cosmetic, Toiletry, Perfumery and Detergent Association (IKW)

Topline Products

Toyo Seikan Kaisha, Ltd.

TPG Capital

Verbeeck Packaging Group

Vetroelite

Virospack

Weener Plastics

World Wide Packaging

YC Packaging

ZignagoVetro Group

To see a report overview please e-mail Sara Peerun on sara.peerun@visiongain.com
SEATTLE, WA / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2018 / Blue Point Capital Partners announced today that it has sold its interest in Selmet, Inc. to Consolidated Precision Products Corp. ("CPP"), a portfolio company of Warburg Pincus LLC. Selmet was a portfolio company in Blue Point II, which is the Firm's 2006 vintage middle market buyout fund with commitments of $400 million. Sale terms were not disclosed.

"Selmet was identified as an opportunity where we would leverage our historical successes in the aerospace and defense sector and partner with an industry-leading management team. It has been a privilege to work alongside Selmet's team and execute on numerous value creating initiatives assisted by the guidance of our industry and operational resources," said Mark Morris, a Partner with Blue Point.

While partnered with Blue Point, Selmet more than quadrupled earnings while generating significant cash flow. The Company also completed two add-on acquisitions that provided additional capacity for machining titanium castings and further enhanced its value-add offering to customers.

Rick Kenyon, President and CEO of Selmet said, "Our Company has experienced tremendous growth over the years in partnership with Blue Point. We are confident that CPP's expertise in highly engineered castings will add to our world-class capabilities and help scale our business even further."

"We are extremely pleased with the value created in the platform during our hold period by Rick and his outstanding team," said Charley Geiger, a Principal with Blue Point. "We invested in and witnessed Selmet's transformation from an entrepreneurial run business to a worldwide leader poised for additional growth, and we wish them continued success with their new partner."

Selmet, Inc. (www.selmetinc.com), founded in 1983, is a leading manufacturer of titanium castings for the commercial aerospace and defense markets. The Company operates a state-of-the-art investment casting foundry located in Albany, Oregon, and two machining sites in Everett, Washington, and Wilsonville, Oregon. Selmet is a trusted partner to a blue-chip customer base and one of very few suppliers in the world capable of manufacturing advanced titanium castings at scale for demanding aerospace and defense applications.

Blue Point Capital Partners (www.bluepointcapital.com) is a private equity firm managing over $1.5 billion in committed capital. With offices in Cleveland, Charlotte, Seattle and Shanghai, Blue Point's geographical footprint allows it to establish relationships with local and regional entrepreneurs and advisors, while providing the resources of a global organization. The Blue Point partner group has a 19-year track record of partnering with companies in the lower middle-market to facilitate growth and transformative change. It is one of only a few middle market private equity firms with a presence in both the United States and China, which provides a distinct advantage for its portfolio companies. Blue Point typically invests in businesses that generate between $20 million and $300 million in revenue.

For more information, contact:

BLUE POINT CAPITAL PARTNERS

601 Union Street, Suite 3022

Seattle, WA, 98101

Mark Morris

Partner

(206) 332-9202

mmorris@bluepointcapital.com

Charley Geiger

Principal

(206) 332-9206

cgeiger@bluepointcapital.com

SELMET

Rick Kenyon

President and CEO

33992 SE Seven Mile Lane

Albany, OR 97322

(541) 926-7731

SOURCE: Blue Point Capital Partners
PUNE, India, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

According to a new market research report "Spiral Membrane Market by Polymer Type (Polyamide, PS & PES), Technology (RO, NF, UF, and MF), End-use Industry (Water & Wastewater Treatment, Food & Beverage, Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology, Oil & Gas), and Region - Global Forecast to 2023", published by MarketsandMarkets, the market is projected to grow from USD 5.10 billion in 2018 to USD 8.20 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 10.0% from 2018 to 2023. Increasing awareness of water & wastewater treatment and requirement of selective separation for meeting water quality standards are the major drivers for the Spiral Membrane Market. In addition, stringent environmental regulations in many countries are also expected to drive the Spiral Membrane Market during the forecast period.

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Browse 72 market data Tables and 35 Figures spread through 123 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Spiral Membrane Market"

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/spiral-membrane-market-14994326.html

Early buyers will receive 10% customization on this report

Polyamide segment to lead Spiral Membrane Market during forecast period

Based on type, the polyamide segment is projected to lead the Spiral Membrane Market during the forecast period. Polyamide type is estimated to have accounted for the largest market share due to its easy availability and cost-efficiency. In addition, these membranes possess lower pressure requirements and more flexible operating conditions which makes them suitable for municipal and industrial effluent treatment application.

Get PDF Brochure:https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownload.asp?id=14994326

Water & wastewater treatment segment projected to grow at highest CAGR during forecast period

Based on end-use industry, the water & wastewater treatment segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR from 2018 to 2023. Spiral membranes are widely used in various industries such as food & beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical & petrochemical, and textile industries. The technology is used for water treatment and manufacturing processes. In addition to this, the presence of stringent regulations in various countries for effluent discharge is also a major factor for the large size of this segment. The R&D departments of manufacturing companies are carrying out research to widen the application areas, which is expected to drive the Spiral Membrane Market during the forecast period.

APAC Spiral Membrane Market projected to grow at highest CAGR from 2018 to 2023

The Spiral Membrane Market in the APAC region possesses immense potential for growth. Increasing awareness of water and wastewater treatment and rising scarcity of fresh water are expected to fuel the demand for ultrafiltration during the forecast period. China, India, and Japan are some of the key countries in the region contributing significantly towards the growth of the Spiral Membrane Market in the APAC region.

Some of the key players in the Spiral Membrane Market are DowDuPont Inc. (US), Toray Industries, Inc. (US), Hydranautics (US), LG Water Solutions (South Korea), SUEZ Water Technologies and Solutions (France), Merck Group (Germany), Pentair plc (US), Koch Membrane Systems (US), Pall Corporation (US), and Lanxess (Germany), among others. New product and technology development was the major growth strategy adopted by the market players between 2015 and 2018 to enhance their regional footprint and meet the growing demand for spiral membrane in the emerging economies.

Reverse Osmosis segment to lead Spiral Membrane Market during forecast period

Based on type, the reverse osmosis segment is projected to lead the Spiral Membrane Market during the forecast period. RO is the leading technology for spiral membrane because of its cost-effectiveness. It is primarily used for desalination of seawater and brackish water. NF is the fastest-growing technology for spiral membrane because of its increasing use in water treatment applications.

Know more about Spiral Membrane Market:

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/spiral-membrane-market-14994326.html

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Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model - GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve.

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LAGOS, Nigeria, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Sponsors 2018 Nigerians Diaspora Global Development Conference in London

FBNQuest Asset Management, a part of the FBN Holdings Plc group, has called on Nigerians in Diaspora to take advantage of the numerous investment opportunities available in Nigeria. This call was made at the just concluded Nigerians in Diaspora (NIDOA) Global Development Conference in London.

The conference presented a rare opportunity for Nigerians in the diaspora to engage in constructive and interactive sessions with key decision makers across different industries in Nigeria, encouraging stakeholders to partner and collaborate on investment schemes. A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the NIDO-led $20 Million Diaspora Housing Investment Fund - a closed end investment fund to be privately placed and constituted under a Trust Deed with a suitable Commercial Trustees to be selected. The fund will be established through the issuance of the similitude of a real estate investment trust scheme which will provide opportunities for individual and institutional investors to participate in the Nigerian real estate sector.

The conference yielded fruitful discourse and exchange of ideas that examined the intersections between investment in human capital, natural resources, entrepreneurship, innovation and technology in Nigeria. As one of the major sponsors of the conference, FBNQuest Asset Management called on Nigerians in Diaspora to offer strategic expertise in their various endeavours to impact the country with knowledge and financial capacity, especially by way of investment. Speaking during the conference, Managing Director, FBNQuest Asset Management, Mr. Ike Onyia said, "We want to partner with the Diaspora community through NIDO and its members. As a member of one of the leading financial services groups in Africa, we are well-positioned to serve the diaspora community professionally and to ensure their aspirations in the area of maximising investment returns are fulfilled."

Speaking further, Mr. Onyia said, "FBNQuest Asset Management is open to partnerships that will unlock the potential of the Nigerian diaspora community as a source of economic development. We provide bespoke solutions to organizations and individual investors looking to set up structures that can help them achieve their investment goals. As a trusted advisor and credible partner with sound local knowledge and a rich pedigree, we will help them navigate through opportunities in the homeland."

FBNQuest Asset Management is a leading asset manager in Nigeria for individual and institutional investors, guiding clients through Africa's dynamic markets, while identifying the best opportunities to shape portfolios in line with specific investment goals. The firm was recognised as the 'Best Asset Manager in Nigeria' in the prestigious Euromoney Private Banking and Wealth Management Survey 2017, which is the industry's leading barometer of the world's best service and product providers. The survey covers 15 different product and client categories and has ranking results in 70 countries, in which FBNQuest Asset Management emerged number one in Nigeria.

About FBNQuest Asset Management

FBNQuest Asset Management is a subsidiary of FBN Holdings Plc. A leading asset manager in Nigeria for individual and institutional investors, we offer a range of investment products and services, with strategies spanning various asset classes and sectors. We guide our clients through Africa's dynamic markets, and identify the best opportunities that shape their portfolios and investment goals. Our specialist portfolio and fund management services covers managing investment accounts of high-net-worth-individuals and institutional clients; including insurance companies, pension funds, public and private mutual funds, endowment and charity funds, as well as segregated and special accounts.
OTTAWA, Ontario, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

In keeping with a time-honoured tradition of commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of Canadian soldiers on coins, the Royal Canadian Mint is proud to have issued the 2018 $20 Fine Silver Coin - A Nation's Mettle: The Dieppe Raid, among many other memorable keepsakes this month. Illustrated by accomplished coin designer Laurie McGaw, this outstanding collectible depicts the reflection of a contemporary veteran saluting the fallen, reflected in the water receding from the beach at Dieppe, France. The coin serves as a reminder of the many Canadian soldiers lost or captured in the fateful Second World War operation on August 19, 1942. The juxtaposition of the past and present also pays tribute to those Canadian veterans who dutifully commemorate those sacrifices every August at Dieppe, New Brunswick.

(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/725102/Royal_Canadian_Mint_Finely_crafted_coins_recall_Canada_s_finest.jpg )



Also remembered are the dates August 8 to November 11, 1918 on the 2018 $20 Fine Silver Coin - First World War Battlefront Series: Canada's Hundred Days. Joel Kimmel's illustration of soldiers overlooking the makeshift grave of a comrade buried amidst the rubble of a devastated town symbolizes the sacrifice of Canadians who fought costly but successful battles, from Amiens to Mons, in the last 100 days of the First World War.

On the 2018 $20 Fine Silver Coin - First World War Allied Forces: France, artist Pandora Young has captured the hope and determination of French ground forces, with fellow airmen flying above, as they make their final push to victory in the closing months of the war. The selectively gold plated flaming bomb insignia of the French infantry adds a special flourish to a coin honouring the brave men who gave so much to secure an Allied victory on their home soil.

On another front, the Mint continues to re-imagine coins by creatively altering their shape. This time, it has produced its first stamp-shaped 2018 $20 Fine Silver Coin - Canada's Historical Stamps: Parliament Building 1927 Confederation. Faithfully replicating the bright carmine commemorative postage stamp issued in celebration of Canada's 60th anniversary, this coin features serrated edges that mimic perforations. Another unique collectible is the ovoid-shaped 2018 $20 Fine Silver Coin - Four Seasons of the Maple Leaf where artist Margaret Best has illustrated the iconic maple leaf, in rich colour and selective gold plating, as it emerges and transforms through each season.

Other great collectibles available in store this month include:

The 2018 Fine Silver Colourised Coin Set - Classic Canadian Coins, the Mint's first set of exquisitely coloured silver reproductions of Canada's traditional circulation designs, which includes a pure silver medallion of the Mint's Ottawa and Winnipeg facilities in commemoration of its 110 th anniversary;

traditional circulation designs, which includes a pure silver medallion of the Mint's and facilities in commemoration of its 110 anniversary; The 2018 $100 Fine Silver Coin - Portrait of a Princess, is an elegant reproduction of Yousuf Karsh's famous 1951 photo of a young Princess Elizabeth , on a stunning 10 oz. pure silver coin;

Fine Silver Coin - Portrait of a Princess, is an elegant reproduction of famous 1951 photo of a young , on a stunning 10 oz. pure silver coin; The 10 oz., selectively gold-plated 2018 $100 Fine Silver Coin - Keepers of Parliament: The Beaver, featuring the artwork of Patrick Belanger;

Fine Silver Coin - Keepers of Parliament: The Beaver, featuring the artwork of Patrick Belanger; The 2018 $20 Fine Silver Coin - Nocturnal by Nature: Cunning Cougar, whose black rhodium-plated design of a prowling cougar is accented by a silvery moon in a Tony Bianco design;

Fine Silver Coin - Nocturnal by Nature: Cunning Cougar, whose black rhodium-plated design of a prowling cougar is accented by a silvery moon in a design; The 2018 $20 Fine Silver Coin - Canadian Mosaics: Grizzly Bear, designed by artist Jori van der Linde ;

Fine Silver Coin - Canadian Mosaics: Grizzly Bear, designed by artist ; The 2018 $3 Fine Silver Coin - Canadian Coasts: True North, a square-shaped coin whose Maurade Baynton design features iconic symbols of our northern coastline;

Fine Silver Coin - Canadian Coasts: True North, a square-shaped coin whose Maurade Baynton design features iconic symbols of our northern coastline; The 2018 5-Ounce Fine Silver Coin - Big Coin Series: One-Cent Coin, selectively plated in rose gold;

Coin, selectively plated in rose gold; The 2019 Pure Gold Maple Leaf Fractional Set - 40 th anniversary of the Gold Maple Leaf featuring a 1 oz., coloured and serialized coin as well as , 1/10 and 1/20 oz. engraved versions packaged in a leaf-shaped maple wood case;

anniversary of the Gold Maple Leaf featuring a 1 oz., coloured and serialized coin as well as , 1/10 and 1/20 oz. engraved versions packaged in a leaf-shaped maple wood case; The 2018 $15 Fine Silver Coin - Blessings of Harmony, a scallop-shaped, fully gold-plated coin designed by Aries Cheung featuring a pair of swallows symbolizing harmony;

Fine Silver Coin - Blessings of Harmony, a scallop-shaped, fully gold-plated coin designed by Aries Cheung featuring a pair of swallows symbolizing harmony; The 2019 $2,500 Pure Gold Coin - Year of the Pig, a one kilo, scalloped-shaped coin designed by Three Degrees Creative and the 2019 $150 Gold Coin - Year of the Pig designed by Aries Cheung, both celebrating the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year;

Pure Gold Coin - Year of the Pig, a one kilo, scalloped-shaped coin designed by Three Degrees Creative and the 2019 Gold Coin - Year of the Pig designed by Aries Cheung, both celebrating the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year; The 2018 $100 Fine Silver Coin - The Bronze Age of DC Comics, an impressive 10 oz., shield-shaped coin featuring the 1970's and 1980's incarnations of the super heroes of the Justice League , illustrated in full colour by Jason Fabok and Brad Anderson ;

Fine Silver Coin - The Bronze Age of DC Comics, an impressive 10 oz., shield-shaped coin featuring the 1970's and 1980's incarnations of the super heroes of the , illustrated in full colour by and ; The 2018 $3 Fine Silver Coin - The Thirteen Teachings from Grandmother Moon: Thimbleberry Moon, designed by Frank Polson ; and,

Fine Silver Coin - The Thirteen Teachings from Grandmother Moon: Thimbleberry Moon, designed by ; and, The crystal-enhanced 2018 $5 Fine Silver Coin - Birthstones: September, featuring a mandala-inspired sapphire design by artist Pandora Young .

Mintages, pricing and full background information on each product can be found on the "Shop" tab of http://www.mint.ca. Coin images can be viewed here.

All of these products can be ordered directly from the Mint at 1-800-267-1871 in Canada,

1-800-268-6468 in the US, or online at http://www.mint.ca. The coins are also available at the Royal Canadian Mint's boutiques in Ottawa and Winnipeg, as well as through our global network of dealers and distributors, including participating Canada Post outlets.

About the Royal Canadian Mint

The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada's circulation coins. An ISO 9001 certified corporation, the Mint is recognized as one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, offering a wide range of specialized, high quality coinage products and related services on an international scale. For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit http://www.mint.ca.

- All $ are CAD

Alex Reeves, Senior Advisor, External Communications, Royal Canadian Mint, Tel: +1-613-949-5777, reeves@mint.ca
DUBAI, UAE, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Benaa Al Basra has been endorsed by the Iraqi Prime Minister's office to make Basra's Oil Operations Centre (OOC) operational.

The OOC has appointed Sicuro Group, a CMC-licenced, Iraq-experienced tracking, communications and information provider as the exclusive operating partner. This new partnership will ensure the required expertise and resources are applied to the centre in order to deliver timely information, civil and military authority liaison and coordination, incident management and emergency response to all international oil companies operating in Southern Iraq.

The OOC will be operational from mid-August, delivering enhancements to the Basra Operations Command.

About Sicuro:

The Sicuro Group of companies deliver specialist communications, information and procurement solutions to those operating in challenging environments throughout the Middle East, Africa and Eurasia. An ISO 27001 certified and GDPR compliant company, Sicuro has its HQ and 24/7 ops room in Dubai, in support of its regional offices, including Baghdad. Sicuro's Iraq branch holds Iraqi CMC (Communications and Media Commission) licencing for its tracking, monitoring and support services. Intelyse, Sicuro's incident, information and analysis service, has dedicated Iraq analysts and has provided in-depth reporting on Iraq since 2012.

About the OOC:

The Oil Operations Centre (OOC) is the information, incident management and emergency response centre for the Iraqi government's Basra Operations Command (BaOC). The OOC has been established, collocated and integrated with BaOC at its command HQ in Basra, in support of all international oil companies operating in the south of the country and is managed by highly experienced international staff.
TORONTO, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

CellCube Energy Storage Systems Inc. ("CellCube" or the "Company") (CSE: CUBE) (OTCQB: CECBF) (Frankfurt 01X) is pleased to announce the following update to its shareholders and the broader investment community.

The Company continues to successfully execute its strategy of providing innovative grid scale energy storage solutions and related products and services to companies, utilities and other customers around the globe. CellCube is one of the most advanced and proven large scale energy storage systems utilizing leading vanadium flow battery technology.

Several leading independent research firms are forecasting rapid growth in energy storage. According to Bloomberg New Energy Finance's research, storage markets are estimated to reach 40 GW by 2030, and are estimated to spend over $100 billion in the ramp-up phase over the same time period. According to Navigant Research, the grid-connected energy storage market is expected to grow 44 per cent annually with the market size reaching $18-billion (U.S.) by 2024.

CellCube believes that the energy storage industry is on the verge of a tipping point to mass deployment. To-date, vanadium flow batteries (VFBs) have proven to be a leading method of grid scale energy storage. Management strongly believes CellCube is ideally positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for VFBs worldwide to help meet the world's rapidly growing energy storage needs and to be part of the solution to address global warming and advance the transition away from fossil fuels toward greater reliance on renewable energy sources.

2018 Highlights:

Acquisition of Gildermeister Energy Storage GmbH assets. Gildemeister has been one of the world's first and largest researchers, developers, manufacturers and distributors of vanadium flow batteries("VFBs"). As industry leaders, they installed 130 VFBs on sites around the world. Several of its VFBs have nearly 10 years of operating history, and have proven to be extremely robust. CellCube's VFBs are used for a variety of purposes including grid storage; microgrids; off grid storage for solar and wind power; diesel power replacement; back-up power systems; farming applications; electrical vehicle charging stations; industrial plants and office building applications; and emergency power sources.

Appointment of Mr. Mike Neylan as CEO of CellCube. Mr. Neylan has over 20 years of extensive financial, legal and international corporate experience. Most recently, he was a portfolio manager in the private equity division of Sprott Inc. ("Sprott"), a leading alternative investment manager with over $11 billion in assets under management, where he was primarily responsible for establishing Sprott Asia. While at Sprott, he helped raise over $500 million of institutional investment capital from China and Korea and executed over $300 million of investments predominantly in the resource and renewable power sectors. Sprott, and certain investment entities managed by Sprott, have also invested in CellCube.

Appointment of Mr. Stefan Schauss as President of CellCube. Mr. Schauss has over 20 years of sales and business development experience worldwide with a focus in recent years on utility scale energy storage. He has extensive experience in marketing and sales of VFBs, the leading battery for large scale stationary energy storage. Stefan has worked extensively in both Europe and North America . He has a MSc. Physics from University Mainz, Germany with a concentration in physical chemistry and electronics.

Purchase of Jet Power & Control Systems Ltd. (renamed EnerCube Switchgear Systems Inc.). EnerCube is one of Western Canada's largest independently owned switchgear manufacturers providing custom and turnkey solutions. The Corporation provides complimentary products and services to CellCube and will continue to provide innovative and high-quality products such as: Arc Resistant and Metal Clad Switchgear, Motor Control Centers, VFD's and inverters to heavy power users, pipelines, refineries, manufacturers, municipalities and infrastructure providers.

Appointment of Mr. Brian Ricker as President & CEO of EnerCube Switchgear Systems Inc. Mr. Ricker brings over 30 years of business experience in the electrical industry, including 15 years in senior management roles. He recently left Eaton Corporation (a multinational power management company) where he was responsible for managing domestic and international projects in the engineered equipment space.

CellCube announced its intention to spin-out its 100% owned vanadium project, the Bisoni MacKay and Bisoni Rio in Nevada, USA , into a newly formed entity, V23 Resource Corp., which is to be publicly listed. Vanadium prices have increased over 320% since January 2017 with V2O5 prices now approximately US $19 per pound. Vanadium, widely used as an alloy to strengthen steel and in vanadium flow batteries for the energy storage industry, is the best performing battery metal over this time period surpassing cobalt, copper and nickel. CellCube will retain 19.9% and certain off-take rights. Shareholders of record will receive one share of V23 Resource Corp. for every two shares of CellCube held by CellCube shareholders. The spin-out and the record date are expected to occur in September 2018 .



, into a newly formed entity, V23 Resource Corp., which is to be publicly listed. Vanadium prices have increased over 320% since with V2O5 prices now approximately US per pound. Vanadium, widely used as an alloy to strengthen steel and in vanadium flow batteries for the energy storage industry, is the best performing battery metal over this time period surpassing cobalt, copper and nickel. CellCube will retain 19.9% and certain off-take rights. Shareholders of record will receive one share of V23 Resource Corp. for every two shares of CellCube held by CellCube shareholders. The spin-out and the record date are expected to occur in . First product shipment of CellCube VFB to Germany . The Company shipped its first energy storage system to the German municipal utility Gelsenwasser for their EnerPrax project.

Shipment of 2 VFBs to New York . The Company announced that the first of two CellCube energy storage systems was installed at O'Connell Electric in Victor, New York . The battery will be part of a micro-grid solar plus storage system to maximize the use of energy and lower costs by 30-40%.

CellCube further announced the purchase of a 10% stake in Braggawatt Energy Inc., a FinTech platform for financing North America's C&I and non-profit solar projects. The companies have agreed to co-develop financial solutions for energy storage projects that will accelerate the global rollout of CellCube VFBs.

While CellCube does not normally comment on market activity or market rumours, the Company believes it is appropriate to issue the following remarks in light of the unusual activity related to its common shares.

CellCube reiterates that neither the prospects for the energy storage industry nor the fundamentals of its business have changed since the acquisition of the Gildemeister assets. The Company is aware of no material events that would contribute to the unusual trading activity.

"We continue to execute our growth strategy, and our business is progressing as expected," commented Mike Neylan, CEO. "We are very encouraged by the interest shown in CellCube by institutional investors and clean energy companies in both North America and Europe."

The Company also states that several officers and directors have been buying shares in the open market over the past several weeks.

About CellCube:

CellCube's acquisition of the assets of Gildemeister Energy Storage GmbH has transformed CellCube and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Enerox GmbH, into a leading integrated resource and energy storage company. Together with the company's recent acquisition of Jet Power & Control Systems Ltd. (now renamed EnerCube Switchgear Systems Inc.) and Hillcroft Consulting Ltd. (renamed PowerHaz Energy Mobile Solutions Inc.) and its investment in Braggawatt Energy Inc., CellCube is gearing up to deliver fully vertically integrated energy storage solutions to utilities and independent power producers for both stand-alone energy storage projects as well as projects where energy storage enhances the value proposition from renewable energy generation.

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts which address events, results, outcomes or developments that the Company expects to occur; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "aims", "potential", "goal", "objective", "prospective", and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "can", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Certain material assumptions regarding such forward-looking statements are discussed in this news release and the Company's annual and quarterly management's discussion and analysis filed at http://www.sedar.com. Except as required by the securities disclosure laws and regulations applicable to the Company, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For further information, please contact:

Glenda Kelly

CellCube Energy Storage Systems Inc.

Telephone: 1800 882-3213

Email: info@cellcubeenergystorage.com

http://www.cellcubeenergystorage.com
MetalNRG PLC

('MetalNRG' or the 'Company')

Result of AGM

7th August 2018

MetalNRG PLC (LON:MNRG), the natural resource investing company quoted on the NEX Exchange Growth Market in London, is pleased to announce that the resolutions proposed at its Annual General Meeting ("AGM") held earlier today, as set out in the formal Notice of Annual General Meeting dated 12th July 2018, were all duly approved by shareholders, save for Resolution 2 in respect of the re-election of Paul Johnson which, in view of Paul Johnson's resignation on 31st July 2018, was withdrawn.



The Directors of the Company accept responsibility for the contents of this announcement.

Contact Details:

METALNRG PLC

Rolf Gerritsen (Chief Executive Officer) +44 (0) 20 7796 9060



NEX Exchange Corporate Adviser

PETERHOUSE CAPITAL LIMITED

Guy Miller/Mark Anwyl +44 (0) 20 7469 0930





Corporate Broker

S I CAPITAL

Nick Emerson +44 (0) 1483 413500









Notes for Editors:

MetalNRG is quoted on the NEX Exchange Growth Market in London with the stock code MNRG and is a natural resource investing company.

NEX Exchange:

Investors wishing to consider trading in NEX Exchange quoted shares can access this market from numerous brokers, a full list of which can be accessed through the following link:

www.nexexchange.com/for-investors/find-a-broker/

The list accessed through the link above includes certain brokers offering online trading of NEX Exchange quoted shares.

The Investing Policy of the Company is as follows:

The Company's proposed new Investing Policy is to invest in and/or acquire companies and/or projects within the natural resources and/or energy sector with potential for growth and value creation, over the medium to long term. The Company will also consider opportunities in other related sectors if the Board considers there is an opportunity to generate an attractive return for Shareholders. This will include natural resource technologies and fintech opportunities offering leverage to resource identification, processing, recording, storage and trading businesses.

Where appropriate, the Board may seek to invest in businesses where it may influence the business at a board level, add their expertise to the management of the business, and utilise their significant industry relationships.

The Company's interests in a proposed investment and/or acquisition may range from a minority position to full ownership and may comprise one investment or multiple investments. The proposed investments may be in either quoted or unquoted companies; be made by direct acquisitions or farm-ins; and may be in companies, partnerships, earn-in joint ventures, debt or other loan structures, joint ventures or direct or indirect interests in assets or projects.

The Board may focus on investments where intrinsic value can be achieved from the restructuring of investments or merger of complementary businesses. The Board expects that investments will typically be held for the medium to long term, although short term disposal of assets cannot be ruled out if there is an opportunity to generate an attractive return for Shareholders. The Board will place no minimum or maximum limit on the length of time that any investment may be held. The Company may be both an active and a passive investor depending on the nature of the individual opportunity.

Where the Company builds a portfolio of related assets it is possible that there may be cross-holdings between such assets. The Company does not currently intend to fund any investments with debt or other borrowings, but may do so if appropriate. Investments in early stage assets are expected to be mainly in the form of equity, with debt potentially being raised later to fund the development of such assets. Investments in later stage assets are more likely to include an element of debt to equity gearing. The Board may also offer new Ordinary Shares by way of consideration as well as cash, thereby helping to preserve the Company's cash for working capital and as a reserve against unforeseen contingencies including, for example, delays in collecting accounts receivable, unexpected changes in the economic environment and operational problems.

The Board will conduct initial due diligence appraisals of potential business or projects and, where they believe further investigation is warranted, intend to appoint appropriately qualified persons to assist. The Proposed Board believes its expertise will enable it to determine quickly which opportunities could be viable and so progress quickly to formal due diligence. The Company will not have a separate investment manager. The Company proposes to carry out a comprehensive and thorough project review process in which all material aspects of a potential project or business will be subject to rigorous due diligence, as appropriate.
FUJISOFT Becomes a Core System Integration Partner of Litmus Automation in Japan

SAN JOSE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / August 7, 2018 / Litmus Automation, an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) platform provider, today announced a distribution and implementation partnership with FUJISOFT, a global software technology company based in Yokohama, Japan. The relationship will further expand the reach of Litmus Automation products in Japan and the surrounding region including LoopEdge and LoopCloud.

"FUJISOFT is a Japanese 180 billion company, and they work with many of the largest manufacturing customers in Japan, so this partnership will give us an inroad into a much larger customer base," said Vatsal Shah, co-founder and CEO of Litmus. "FUJISOFT also has offices throughout Asia to help us continue to expand and support customers in the APAC region."

As a distributor, FUJISOFT will sell Litmus Automation's LoopEdge and LoopCloud software platforms, while providing customer support in Japanese and in local time zones. They will also provide installation and implementation services for LoopEdge and can scale any deployment with extensive system integration experience and resources.

"We are pleased to start our business with Litmus Automation," said Mr. Seto Arai, Director and Executive Operating Officer, and Director of Solution Business Division of FUJISOFT, Inc. "We're currently taking on bold challenges toward new technologies called AIS-CRM [1] and IoT is one of them. With the value of Litmus products and our knowledge of system integration, we can provide customers with beneficial IoT solutions."

[1] AIS-CRM(A: AI, I: IoT, S: Security, C: Cloud, R: Robot, M: Mobile & Automotive)

About FUJISOFT, Inc.

FUJISOFT Incorporated is a leading independent IT vendor with around 50 years of system integration and embedded software development experience in a wide variety of technologies across many different industries, including telecoms, financial, consumer electronics, medical, automotive and many more. FUJISOFT utilizes the global network and group synergy and continues providing high more value-added products and services. (https://www.fsi.co.jp/e).

About Litmus Automation, Inc.

Litmus Automation, based in San Jose, California, bridges the gap between data in the field or factory and business applications for companies looking to implement Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions. Litmus Automation's offerings, LoopEdge and Loop, work seamlessly together to allow companies to access and exploit data previously trapped within enterprise hardware, no matter where or when it was deployed. Working with original equipment manufacturers and other industrial companies, Litmus Automation brings a modern development approach, a responsive team, a nimble business model, and a proven IIoT solution to all their engagements. Litmus Automation focuses on the Industrial and Automotive industries and counts Fortune 500 companies as clients and partners (including Nissan, Renault, HPE, and Intel).

www.litmusautomation.com@LAutomation

Media Contact

Allison Yrungaray

+1 626-841-1640

allison.yrungaray@momenta.partners

SOURCE: Litmus Automation
(ASX:LI3)

Hello Im Jessica Amir for the Finance News Network. Joining us now from Lithium Consolidated Mineral Exploration Limitedis CEO, Shanthar Pathmanathan.Hi Shanthar, welcome back and thanks so much for joining us while youre in South Africa.Thank you Jessica, thank you for having me again and good to talk to you.First up, can you just remind our audience about your exploration portfolio and your focus?Our exploration portfolio has changed dramatically since we last spoke. So in the middle of last year, the Board decided to commence a process to identify potentially tier one assets. That process led us to Mozambique and Zimbabwe. We believe now that Mozambique and Zimbabwe are two of the most significant hard rock lithium regions, in the world. And indeed, we think Africa will dominate hard rock lithium supply in the future, much like the Middle East does in oil.Weve executed on securing some high quality assets, firstly in Zimbabwe and soon-to-be announced in Mozambique. The exploration and lithium resource potential in Zimbabwe and Mozambique is comparable to the Pilbara, 10 years or so ago. The focus Jessica, for our company is now very much African lithium and in particular, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Were looking forward to securing more assets and eventually controlling the lithium pegmatite corridor, through both countries. And so we think were now very well positioned, unlike any other ASX lithium company.Youve just secured new exploration licences in Zimbabwe, congratulations. But just tell us more, starting with where theyre located, the size, and their mineralisation?Weve secured seven assets in Zimbabwe, in the Mutare Greenstone Belt. This is one of five key tantalite, historical tantalite-mining districts in Zimbabwe. It is located on the border between Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The special advantage of this particular district, tantalite district is that it has flat lying pegmatites, which are generally more suited to open pit mining. As opposed to the other tantalite districts, which tend to have steeply dipping pegmatites.We have specifically gone after flat lying pegmatites, knowing that thesell be the first to be developed as open pit mines, globally. The other advantage with these assets is that theyre very close to infrastructure. Theyre about 70 kilometres from the Mutare Railhead, which is connected to the port of Beira in Mozambique.What can you tell us about the historical workings?The historical workings in these pegmatites are the genesis of the seven assets. The seven assets and licences are essentially over abandoned mines, abandoned tantalite mines, which means we know the mineralisation is there. It is a very special advantage that we have with these assets. The assets have been reviewed, investigated and verified by Dr Douglas Haynes, who is our leading geologist. Dr Douglas Haynes was previously the chief geologist at BHP Billitonfor a very long time, and before that at Western Mining Corporation as a chief scientist. He is one of the leading geologists in the world.Whats planned Shanthar?What well be doing first is a geochemical program, thisll take roughly three to four months. And we will be basically taking rock chip samples and other surface samples, to understand the geochemistry. This will then be followed by phase one drilling program, from Q4 this year. And it is likely that we will be continuously drilling in Zimbabwe and Mozambique, from Q4 onwards.Turning the page now to finances Shanthar. What are you budgeting for exploration over the second half, and are you fully funded?Were going to take the exploration work on these assets in stages. We recently received $400,000 back as a repayment of a loan, from the vendor of our Nevada property. So that has bolstered our cash position, which is currently at about AUD$1.9 million as at 30 June 2018. We have since announcing our African lithium assets, received a lot of interest from our shareholders, significant support, significant interest in funding the company in the future. We have or dont feel a need, to seek further funding in the short term.Lastly Shanthar now, just before we let you go. Why should investors consider adding LCME to their portfolio?We think Africa as a whole will dominate hard rock lithium supply. Our goal is to have a material and potentially controlling share, in the African lithium industry in the future. What weve done since the middle of 2017 is identify what we believe to be, potentially tier one opportunities. And weve gone about executing on securing these assets. Were now among four ASX companies in Zimbabwe lithium and were now the only lithium company, listed lithium company, in Mozambique.Shanthar Pathmanathan, congratulations again on the progress and thanks for the update.Jessica, thank you for having me again, pleasure to talk to you.
The engines are expected to be delivered to Air Vistara between 2020 and 2021, GE Aviation said in a release issued

Mumbai: Leading aircraft engine maker GE Aviation has signed a deal worth over $340 million with Tata-SIA airline Vistara for the supply of its GEnx-1B engines for the latter's Boeing 787 fleet.

The engines are expected to be delivered to Air Vistara between 2020 and 2021, GE Aviation said in a release issued on Tuesday.

The Delhi-based full service carrier recently placed firm order of six B 787-9 (Dreamliner) aircraft with Boeing, besides purchase rights of four more aircraft from Boeing 787 family for its proposed medium and long-haul international operations.

"GEnx engines have been selected by Vistara to power its newly ordered fleet of six firms and four purchase rights of Boeing 787 wide-bodied aircraft," the engine maker said in the release.

The firm engine order, valued at more than $340 million, is Vistara's first for GEnx-powered aircraft, with delivery expected between 2020 and 2021, it said.

"We are delighted to partner with GE for our Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners' operations with its fuel efficient and reliable GEnx-1B engines," Vistara's Chief Executive Officer Leslie Thng said.

Last month, Vistara had announced placing orders for a total of 19 Airbus and Boeing aircraft worth $3.1 billion (around Rs 21,344 crore), as the carrier embarks on ambitious expansion plans, including flying overseas.

"We are honoured that Vistara has selected GE to power its growth journey. GEnx engines offer impressive economics pertaining to fuel efficiency, reliability and utilisation making them most suited for Vistara's plans to strengthen its fleet for international routes," GE country head Vikram Rai said.
Government introduced four bills to amend the GST laws which among other things seek to simplify the return forms and raise the turnover threshold for availing composition scheme to Rs 1.5 crore

New Delhi: The government Tuesday introduced four bills to amend the Goods and Services Tax (GST) laws which among other things seek to simplify the return forms and raise the turnover threshold for availing composition scheme to Rs 1.5 crore.

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) amendment bills are primarily aimed at helping the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector and small traders, Finance Minister Piyush Goyal said while introducing the bills in the Lok Sabha.

The Central GST (Amendment) Bill, Integrated GST (Amendment) Bill, GST (Compensation to States) Amendment Bill and Union Territory GST (Amendment) Bill are likely to be passed in the ongoing session of Parliament.

Objecting to the introduction of the bills as part of a second supplementary list of business Tuesday, Congress member Sunil Jakhar said these bills have been "hurriedly brought" and would hurt the interest of MSME sector.

He also alleged that Punjab is suffering on account of GST implementation and the Centre should have consulted stakeholders before amending the GST laws.

Responding to Jakhar, Goyal said the government has held wide consultation with all stakeholders including Punjab and the changes are intended to help the small traders.

He said the threshold for composition scheme is being raised from Rs 1 crore to Rs 1.5 crore and reverse charge mechanism has already been deferred to September 2019.

Under the composition scheme, traders and manufacturers pay GST at a flat rate of 1 percent and file returns quarterly. Currently, over 17 lakh businesses have registered for the composition scheme as against over 1.10 crore registered under GST.

He said the simplified GST returns forms - Sahaj and Sugam - will be introduced to bring about ease of doing business.

The amendments are aimed at addressing the difficulties being faced by the taxpayers, especially MSMEs in filing returns and payment of taxes.

"The proposed new return filing system envisages quarterly filing of return and tax payment for small taxpayers along with minimum paper work," he said.

The amendments will allow employers to claim input tax credit on facilities like food, transport and insurance provided to employees.

It also provides for separate registration of companies having different business verticals, cancellation of registration and issuance of consolidated debit/credit notes covering multiple invoices.

As per the amendments, e-commerce companies will not have to seek registration under GST provided their annual turnover is less than Rs 20 lakh and are not required to collect tax at source under section 52.
(Reuters) - Investor Carl Icahn will send an open letter to the shareholders of insurer Cigna Corp asking them to vote against the company's $52 billion Express Scripts Holding Co buyout, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday, citing a draft of the letter.

(Reuters) - Investor Carl Icahn will send an open letter to the shareholders of insurer Cigna Corp asking them to vote against the company's $52 billion Express Scripts Holding Co buyout, the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday, citing a draft of the letter.

Icahn and his affiliates own about 0.56 percent of Cigna, which is worth over $250 million as of Monday's market close, the Journal reported, citing people familiar with the matter. https://on.wsj.com/2voopWB

"Cigna is dramatically overpaying for a highly challenged Express Scripts that is facing existential risks on several fronts," said the letter, which the newspaper reported would be made public on Tuesday.

Express Scripts spokesman Brian Henry told Reuters on Monday that the company remained confident in the deal. Cigna and a representative for Icahn did not respond to a request for comment outside regular business hours.

Investors have expressed concern over the Cigna-Express Scripts deal because of the growing presence of Amazon.com in the healthcare sector and U.S. President Donald Trump's push to cut rebates from drugmakers to pharmacy benefit managers.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh and Shubham Kalia in Bengaluru)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
The extent of loss in fraud cases reported by scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) for 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 was Rs 16,409 crore, Rs 16,652 crore and Rs 36,694 crore, respectively

New Delhi: Indian banks reported a total loss of about Rs 70,000 crore due to frauds during the last three fiscals up to March 2018, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Tuesday.

The extent of loss in fraud cases reported by scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) for 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 was Rs 16,409 crore, Rs 16,652 crore and Rs 36,694 crore, respectively, Minister of State for Finance Shiv Pratap Shukla said in a written reply quoting RBI data.

The minister said that data of frauds is as per the year of reporting and not the year of occurrence of fraud or sanction of loan, letter of undertaking, which may might be of an earlier period.

The minister also informed the House that gross advances by SCBs increased from Rs 25.03 lakh crore as on 31 March, 2008, to Rs 68.75 lakh crore on 31 March, 2014.

As regards the stressed assets in the banking system, Shukla said the spurt was due to aggressive lending practices, wilful default, loan frauds, corruption in some cases and economic slowdown.

Replying to another question, he said as per RBI data, there were 139 borrowers with aggregate gross NPAs of more than Rs 1,000 crore.

Shukla said the RBI has apprised that it issued directions to banks in June 2017, instructing them to file applications for initiation of corporate insolvency resolution process (CIRP) under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IPC) in respect of 12 borrowers.

The 12 borrowers had cumulative fund-based and non-fund based outstanding amount of Rs 1,97,769 crore as on 31 March, 2017.

"It subsequently issued further directions to banks advising them to finalise and implement resolution plans in respect of 29 accounts by 13 December, 2017, failing which these too had to be referred to CIRP under IBC," Shukla said.

The cumulative fund-based and non-fund based outstanding amount of these accounts was Rs 1,35,846 crore, as on 30 June, 2017.
Indra Nooyi said that talks about her transition started approximately a year ago, as Ramon Laguarta was named PepsiCo's President last July.

New York: Indra Nooyi has ruled out joining politics and will now focus on her family after her long-innings at the world's second-largest food and beverage giant PepsiCo. PepsiCo on Monday announced that its Board of Directors have unanimously elected Ramon Laguarta, 54, to succeed Indian-origin Nooyi as Chief Executive Officer.

Nooyi, 62, will step down on 3 October after 24 years with the company, the last 12 as CEO. She will remain Chairman until early 2019 to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

Nooyi's departure in two months will further diminish the already small group of female Fortune 500 CEOs, she is one of just 25, and the even more minuscule ranks of women of colour.

"It concerns me in that we can actually count how many there are, as opposed to saying there are hundreds," she told Fortune in an interview. Nooyi said in the interview that she did not yet know what she wanted to do next, but added that she would not be running for office.

"I'm not good at politics," the Chennai-born said. "I'm just a good worker bee", Nooyi, who has not been afraid to get political, said.

After the 2016 US presidential elections, Nooyi had said Democrat Hillary Clinton's loss to Republican Donald Trump left her daughters and PepsiCo's employees devastated and there were serious concerns among the company's workers, especially the non-white employees, about their safety in an America with Trump as its president.

Nooyi said that after her departure from PepsiCo, her focus will be on her family. Being the CEO of a company is "all consuming," she said. "When you are the CEO, especially of such a large company, there's only one priority, and that priority is being CEO. I think my family was short-changed a lot. The last 24 years, the PepsiCo family always came first." She added, "Now is the the time to shift my priorities to my family."

Nooyi got married in 1980 to Raj Nooyi, President of AmSoft Systems. They have two daughters. According to the Fortune report, before the announcement of Nooyi's exit, PepsiCo's stock was flat year over year and its beverage sales in North America had dropped for four consecutive quarters as consumers look for alternatives to soda. Nooyi said that the timing of her departure was unrelated.

"I look at our performance over a long period of time," she said. "The company is in great shape."

Nooyi added that talks about her transition started approximately one year ago as Laguarta was named PepsiCo's president last July. "I've been in the company 24 years, and it's been a labour of love," said Nooyi in the interview. "At some point, you've got to sit back and say, what do I want to do with my life."

Women in business

An area that interests Nooyi is getting more women into the top echelons of management. "In many ways, I think after stepping down as CEO I can work with other women to figure out how to get them to c-suite positions and as a mentor and supporter," she said. There is need to focus on removing barriers to women's progress, she said.

"I see the struggles women go through, and you ca not expect every woman to be a superwoman," she said. "It just doesn't work because there's one constraint we all have, and that's that there are only 24 hours in a day."

Nooyi, one of the world's most powerful and influential business leaders, said leading PepsiCo has been the "honour" of her lifetime, and she is "incredibly proud" of all the company has done over the past 12 years to advance the interests of shareholders and stakeholders. Among the few executives to break the glass ceiling in corporate America, Nooyi had also created history by being among the few India-born females to lead a global giant when she took over the reins at PepsiCo.

Nooyi described the development as a "day of mixed emotions for me". She said PepsiCo has been "my life for nearly a quarter century and part of my heart will always remain here."

"But I am proud of all we've done to position PepsiCo for success, confident that Ramon and his senior leadership team will continue prudently balancing short-term and long-term priorities, and excited for all the great things that are in store for this company. PepsiCo's best days are still ahead of it," she said yesterday in the company statement.
Indra Nooyi joined PepsiCo in 1994 and had an immediate influence on the company's strategic direction. She was instrumental in PepsiCo spinning off its Pizza Hut, KFC and Taco Bell restaurants for $4.5 billion.

New Delhi: PepsiCo announced on Monday that its CEO Indra Nooyi will step down as its CEO after heading the world's second-largest food and beverage giant for 12 years.

Born in Chennai, Nooyi has successfully changed the face of beverage major Pepsico with her agenda of "performance with purpose" by offering more nutritious products.

During her 12-year stint as CEO, PepsiCo saw its revenue grow by more than 80 percent and added a new billion-dollar brand almost every other year.

Nooyi (62) invested in the future of the company and during her tenure Pepsico's spendings on R&D almost got trebled.

She focused on delivering sustainable long-term growth while leaving a positive imprint on society and the environment. This included transforming PepsiCo's portfolio and offering healthier options while making food system more sustainable.

Long stint at Pepsico

Nooyi, a graduate from Madras Christian College and MBA from IIM Calcutta, who had been at the helm of affairs of $63.5 billion Pepsico for almost 12 years, oversaw a number of key restructurings during her 24 years' tenure at New York-headquartered food and beverage giant. She joined PepsiCo in 1994 and had an immediate influence on the company's strategic direction. She was instrumental in PepsiCo spinning off its Pizza Hut, KFC and Taco Bell restaurants for $4.5 billion.

Nooyi also played a key role in PepsiCo's acquisition of Tropicana and Quaker Oats. Besides, under Nooyi's tenure, PepsiCo focused on reaching out to the emerging markets and rapidly expanding middle classes there. Issuing a statement, PepsiCo said: "Under Nooyi's leadership, our revenue has grown by more than 80 percent and we have added a new billion-dollar brand almost every other year."

Moreover, during her tenure, PepsiCo "developed new design and eCommerce capabilities, a business which generated $1 billion in annual retail sales last year".

Terming her as "truly a pioneer" Pepsico said she was responsible for spearheading its 'performance with purpose' vision. This was to offer "more nutritious products, limit environmental impact and support people and the communities". PepsiCo is presently globally the second-largest food and beverage company and her admirers credit it to Nooyi.

During her stint, PepsiCo Inc, along with its partners, had on November 2013 announced to invest $5.5 billion (Rs 33,000 crore) to double its manufacturing capacity in India by 2020.

"I am especially proud of the great work we have done in India to transform our portfolio to include more nutritious products, working with and supporting thousands of Indian farmers, and providing an inclusive workplace in which our associates in India can bring their whole selves to work every day. That will not change," said Nooyi in her statement.

Ramon Laguarta to replace Nooyi

PepsiCo Inc has appointed Ramon Laguarta to take over as chief executive from Nooyi, handing the reins to a veteran who led the companys fast-growing emerging markets business. Laguarta, who starts on 3 October, will be tasked with managing the companys response as consumer tastes move away from sugary drinks.

Nooyi, 62, is stepping down after 24 years at PepsiCo, where she held a variety of roles, including her most recent 12 years as CEO. Her departure also leaves only one woman of color among Fortune 500 CEOs.

Laguarta will be PepsiCos sixth CEO in its 53-year history. Nooyi described Laguarta as the 'right person' to help build on Pepsico's 'strong position and success'.

Ramon Laguarta is exactly the right person to help build on @PepsiCo's strong position and success. He has been a critical partner and friend and I am positive that he will take PepsiCo to new and greater heights in the years to come. https://t.co/sSNfPgVK6W  Indra Nooyi (@IndraNooyi) August 6, 2018

A 22-year veteran of PepsiCo, Laguarta oversaw global operations, corporate strategy, public policy and government affairs in his role as president.

The Spaniard previously headed the companys Europe Sub-Saharan Africa (ESSA) division - a unit PepsiCo characterized as one of the most complex business divisions in the company, due to its mix of both developed and emerging markets.

Laguarta, 54, was named the president of the company in September last year and was tipped to succeed Nooyi. He also formerly led PepsiCos Eastern European operations.

With a deep understanding of PepsiCos international operations, and a broader understanding of the total company portfolio in his role as president, we believe that Laguarta is well-placed to continue executing on PepsiCos current strategy, Cowen & Co analysts said.

PepsiCos shares were up 1.6 percent in morning trading on Monday, touching a seven-month high of $118.21 earlier in the session.

Nooyi is the third female CEO to leave a Fortune 500 company in the last one year after Denise Morrison quit Campbell Soup in May and Irene Rosenfeld stepped down as the head of Oreo-cookie maker Mondelez International Inc in August 2017.

That leaves only 23 female CEOs at Fortune 500 companies, representing less than 5 percent of the total, according to the Fortune magazine.

--With inputs from agencies
By Adriana Barrera MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexico's economy minister Ildefonso Guajardo said on Monday the country has put forward a proposal to update the North American Free Trade Agreement's contentious rules of origin, and in turn was studying the U.S. position

By Adriana Barrera

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexico's economy minister Ildefonso Guajardo said on Monday the country has put forward a proposal to update the North American Free Trade Agreement's contentious rules of origin, and in turn was studying the U.S. position.

The United States has demanded tougher rules of origin, particularly on what percentage of a car needs to be built in the NAFTA region to avoid tariffs than outlined in the current trade deal.

"We have a proposal on the table, we're analysing some characteristics of the U.S. position, and we're doing it clearly in line with our dialogue with Mexico's auto industry," Guajardo told reporters after an event in Mexico City.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who launched the renegotiation of the 1994 pact a year ago, has said he wants the reworked deal to bring manufacturing jobs back to the United States.

Guajardo on Monday also said that Canada, which is not participating in U.S.-Mexico talks that began in Washington two weeks ago after months of negotiations between the three trade partners, could join next week, depending on progress in the next few days between Mexico and the United States.

The bilateral meetings have yielded important developments, Guajardo said, adding that he will return to Washington midweek. He did not give details.

Mexican sources briefed on the negotiations have said Mexico has offered to raise the threshold for regional content beyond a May proposal of 70 percent, up from the current level of 62.5 percent. The United States is seeking 75 percent as well as demanding a proportion of vehicles be made in factories paying $16 an hour or more.

Mexico's El Economista financial newspaper on Monday reported that Mexico had agreed to those demands, in return for a five-year transition period. Asked about the reports, Mexico's chief trade negotiator Kenneth Smith said that no deal on autos had yet been reached.

"We haven't closed or resolved this chapter yet," Smith told reporters after the same event in Mexico City, saying that Canada also needed to take part before negotiators could reach final decisions.

Smith said Mexico and the United States were discussing technical details and each other's proposals involving the auto sector, and that Mexico was explaining the areas it considered particularly sensitive.

He also said Mexico would not budge on its rejection of U.S. bids for seasonal restrictions on fresh products or a sunset clause that could strike down NAFTA agreements after five years.

(Reporting by Adriana Barrera, Writing by Daina Beth Solomon; Editing by Frank Jack Daniel and Jonathan Oatis)

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The AUM of the industry, comprising 42 players, was Rs 22.86 lakh crore at the end of June, according to the data by Association of Mutual Funds in India

New Delhi: Mutual funds' asset base rose by 5 percent to Rs 23.96 lakh crore in July-end, driven by participation from retail investors and a spirited investor awareness campaign by the industry.

The asset under management (AUM) of the industry, comprising 42 players, was Rs 22.86 lakh crore at the end of June, according to the data by Association of Mutual Funds in India (Amfi).

The total asset base of all the fund houses put together was Rs 19.97 lakh crore in July last year.

"The monthly rise in the asset base is mainly due to the industry body's investor awareness campaign and strong participation from retail investors," Amfi Chief Executive NS Venkatesh told PTI over phone.

Besides, Systematic Investment Plan (SIPs) continue to be the fancy of retail investors and people continue to invest through the route as it allows investors to invest in small amounts periodically instead of lump sum, he added.

Retail equity AUM has touched Rs 10 lakh crore last month. It stood at Rs 9.61 lakh crore in June-end.

Further, nine lakh new folios have been added last month taking the total to all-time high of 7.55 crore at the end of July from 7.46 crore in preceding month-end.

"The addition of new folios suggests that new investors believe that mutual funds are among the most promising investment products for the long term," Venkatesh said.

Folios are numbers designated to individual investor accounts, though an investor can have multiple accounts.
Ola has obtained licenses to begin operations in South Wales in September, as well as Greater Manchester, and plans to expand nationwide by the end of the year

New Delhi: Indian ride-hailing firm Ola said on Tuesday it plans to launch services in Britain this year, months after expanding operations in Australia, intensifying its rivalry with US peer Uber Technologies Inc.

Ola has obtained licenses to begin operations in South Wales in September, as well as Greater Manchester, and plans to expand nationwide by the end of the year, it said in a statement.

The firm will offer private vehicles for hire as well as Britains famous black cabs on its platform and will add more transportation options going forward.

Ola and Uber, which both count Japans SoftBank Group as an investor, have been competing in Indias $12 billion taxi market and in recent months have taken their rivalry overseas.

Ola is targeting high-booking markets in search of profitability because, in India, less loyal consumers demanding low-cost rides make competition more intense, said Neil Shah, research director at consultancy Counterpoint Research.

In February, Ola launched operations in Australia, its first foray outside India and in one of Ubers strongholds where the Indian company now has 40,000 drivers on its platform across seven cities.

Uber has a presence in Britain as well.

This could put pressure on Uber and cause them to possibly merge in India, said Shah, adding that Ola could use its international expansion strategy into Uber territories as leverage.

Uber, in March, decided to exit Southeast Asia, allowing it to focus on India.

Ola, founded in 2011, clocks one billion rides each year globally, and has more than one million driver partners in over 110 cities, it said.

The company is also expanding into food delivery, has partnered Microsoft Corp to build a platform for networked cars, and is experimenting with electric vehicles.
A blanket ban was wrong in the first place; it almost appeared like the RBI was in a hurry to cover up its failure to regulate the LoU effectively

A Parliamentary panels suggestion to restore one of the popular trade credit instruments -- Letter of Undertaking/ Comfort (LoU/LoC), will bring cheers to a number of companies engaged in cross-border trade, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs). These instruments, used widely till a while back to avail trade credit from foreign branches of Indian banks, were banned by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in the aftermath of the Rs 13,000 cr Punjab National Bank scam orchestrated by Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi.

A blanket ban was wrong in the first place. It almost appeared like the RBI was in a hurry to cover up its failure to regulate the instrument effectively, leaving room for fraudsters to turn the instrument into a tool to perpetrate fraud.

By banning this outright, RBI committed another major mistake; it denied small companies access to cheaper, easier credit abroad.

When the RBI banned the practice of issuance of LoUs/ LoCs for Trade Credits for imports into India by AD CategoryI banks with immediate effect," it had said that Letters of Credit and Bank Guarantees for trade credits for imports into India may continue to be issued subject to compliance with the provisions.

The problem here is that the alternative instruments suggested by the RBI in the place of the LoUs carried bigger costs for the importer and processes were more complicated. LoUs have been a simplified form of other instruments, easier to use to get buyers credit for importers and hence widely used. LoCs and bank guarantees too can do this job, but not in the same way. Importers have already raised an alarm about the central banks decision saying that this will impact them and even exporters who use the imported material to make goods for exports.

Not just bankers, but rating agencies, too, had sounded caution on the LoU ban. India ratings and research, the Indian unit of global rating agency, Fitch, had said that banning LoUs will reduce the financial flexibility of importers, lead to liquidity pressure and result in higher funding costs for small companies. But none of these warnings made the central bank correct its mistake. Now a Parliament panel has repeated the argument in favour of LoUs.

The point here is that Indian traders arent responsible for a Nirav Modis fault. Already, Indian traders arent having a good time fighting global restrictions (protectionist policies in developed markets/ trade wars), problems in the domestic market (demand, labour), currency imbalances across markets. The banning of LoUs also hit exporters hard since they use these instruments heavily to buy raw materials that are used to make export materials.

The Parliamentary panels proposal should act as an eye-opener for the RBI to correct a major mistake urgently.
Consent becomes a critical point here if one were to attempt to access individual data as part of a routine fraud risk management activity

The 67 page draft of the recently released Personal Data Protection Bill, 2018 (PDP18) has outlined some much needed critical steps to create a framework for privacy and protecting personal data of individuals in India. While there are references to similarities with the European Unions General Data Protection Regulation, the bill is very relevant in India due to the almost free flow and availability of citizens data.

There are several examples of this that have been seen in the past, whether such data was vested with companies or in semi-controlled social media environments. In light of this, the bill has identified several stakeholders that have been defined along with their obligations in collecting, managing, and processing of data. What is intriguing to note is that one would need to seek consent from the individual prior to processing his/her personal data.

In principle, these are very welcome steps and obligations. All of us have received pesky calls at some point of time in our life where callers appear to have significant amounts of information about us and have used that to sell a product or service. Most of us would not recall permitting anyone to use our data for the purposes of unsolicited calls. [While the telecom ministry and TRAI have a Do Not Disturb (DND) registry, many people havent signed up for it because the DND also stops essential banking transactions from going through by blocking OTP and other messages].

While this bill may finally allow individuals right to own and manage their data and its use, it is likely to pose a challenge for organisations attempting to manage the risk of fraud through risk assessments, investigations of non-compliance/misconduct and on legal proceedings, whether criminal or civil where an individuals data may have been reviewed for the purpose of such initiatives.

Most such activities are kept confidential, and at times the individual suspect is also not aware of the investigation taking place in the background. This often helps in keeping the knowledge of the entire activity restricted to less than a handful of people. Imagine a scenario where a person is informed that they are under investigation and the person is found to be innocent at the end of the exercise; the knowledge that they are being investigated could result in loss of morale and even trust and faith in the organisation.

In our experience, the Information Technology policies of most companies do permit limited/reasonable personal use of company-provided electronic devices by individual users and employees. And these users often do receive items that could be considered personal identifiers, and in some cases, sensitive personal information on these machines such as bank statements, credit card bills, insurance documentation, etc. In addition, there would be financial information in the form of payslips, Form 16s, etc. that are issued by and shared through the official email addresses of such users. Therefore the likelihood of personal data residing on a computer used by an individual employee is extremely high.

Digital forensics

Consent, therefore, becomes a critical point here if one were to attempt to access individual data as part of a routine fraud risk management activity. Whether an individual storing his personal data on a computer system provided by his company, without informing the employer, would carry the same set of obligations for the firm is currently unclear. In addition, if the employer is not sure whether there is personal data on the computer, would they still need to seek consent and thereby disclose that there is an investigation underway or do they wait till potentially relevant data is discovered on such a system? And further, what recourse is there in case the employee refuses to provide consent even though the data resides on a computer that was given to the employee for other reasons? Would the company then need to demonstrate that they are acting on a suspicion or whistleblower tip by filing an official complaint with the police?

A further question could be whether it would be reasonable for companies to prohibit employees from using provided assets for storing any personal data at all.

Use of digital forensics techniques is key to any form of compliance, fraud or regulatory investigation across the globe. In most western countries, electronic discovery is a legal obligation in civil litigation or in regulator driven investigations. The premise of these is that there is a digital footprint and evidence created due to the pervasive nature of technology in most interactions which need to be uncovered and used in proceedings.

Many companies in India rely on digital forensics to verify allegations or suspicions of fraud. This typically involves analysis of computers or other electronic devices that are provided by the company to identify whether such allegations may be true. Digital forensics is usually performed by external parties, however, some companies do employ internal resources for such work.

Currently, many organisations are toying with the idea of seeking a blanket consent from employees on access to data on company provided assets. While this may be suitable for some organisations, others may find it limiting to seek such consent from employees, especially in cases where a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) culture is encouraged and the lines between official work and personal work are blurred. Perhaps the bill needs to address this. Until then organisations would need to find an approach that strikes a fine balance between seeking data and maintaining employee trust.

(Author is Partner, Deloitte India)
The Sensex swung about 300 points on alternate bouts of buying and selling during the volatile session

Mumbai: BSE Sensex retreated from record levels to end marginally down by 26.09 points at 37,665.80 on Tuesday in a volatile trade as investors booked profit in recent gainers such as Reliance Industries, Adani Ports and SBI.

The broader NSE Nifty extended its record run for a third straight session, edging up by 2.35 points or 0.02 percent to close at new peak at 11,389.45. Intra-day, it hit a new high of 11,428.95 and a low of 11,359.70.

The Sensex opened with gains and rallied to a fresh life-time high of 37,876.87 in early trade. However, it succumbed to profit booking, before finally ending at 37,665.80 points, down by 26.09 points, or 0.07 percent. The Sensex swung about 300 points on alternate bouts of buying and selling during the volatile session.

Investors rushed to book profits in range-bound trade, led by PSU, oil & gas, energy, infrastructure, telecom, realty, healthcare, bankex, FMCG, capital goods and power counters.

Top losers included Adani Ports, Coal India, SBI, ONGC, Sun Pharma, Tata Motors, Bharti Airtel, Axis Bank, M&M, RIL, ICICI Bank, TCS, HDFC, ITC, Bajaj Auto and Power Grid, falling up to 6.49 percent.

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 248.709 crore, while domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) made purchases worth a net of Rs 218.64 crore on Monday, provisional exchange data showed.
Last week, nearly 23 percent of investors voted against the special resolution for re-appointing Parekh as a director on the board of mortgage lender HDFC.

Mumbai: Noted banker Uday Kotak today flagged concerns about concentration of voting powers with global proxy advisory firms, a week after nearly 23 percent investors voted against re-appointment of Deepak Parekh as a director on HDFC board.

Two US proxy advisory firms had asked investors to vote against the special resolution to re-appoint Parekh, according to reports.

Against this backdrop, Kotak mentioned about global proxy advisory firms and their concentration of voting with such entities.

"We have seen the concentration of voting through global proxy advisory services, leading to concentration of voting power in the hands of a few global agencies," Kotak said.

"This questions the very basis of well-run, widely held companies and diversified ownerships," he said.

Kotak, who is the managing director of Kotak Mahindra Bank, was speaking on the sidelines of the listing ceremony of HDFC Asset Management Company here.

He was also the head of the high-level on corporate governance constituted by markets regulator Sebi. Many recommendations of the committee have been accepted by the watchdog.

Last week, nearly 23 percent of investors voted against the special resolution for re-appointing Parekh as a director on the board of mortgage lender HDFC.
By Marianna Parraga and Mircely Guanipa HOUSTON/PUNTO FIJO (Reuters) - Venezuela's state-run oil company PDVSA has limited the damage from an unprecedented slump in crude exports by transferring oil between tankers at sea and loading vessels in neighbouring Cuba to avoid asset seizures. But the OPEC member nation is still fulfilling less than 60 percent of its obligations under supply deals with customers. Venezuela has been pumping oil this year at the lowest rate in three decades after years of underinvestment and a mass exodus of workers.

By Marianna Parraga and Mircely Guanipa

HOUSTON/PUNTO FIJO (Reuters) - Venezuela's state-run oil company PDVSA has limited the damage from an unprecedented slump in crude exports by transferring oil between tankers at sea and loading vessels in neighbouring Cuba to avoid asset seizures.

But the OPEC member nation is still fulfilling less than 60 percent of its obligations under supply deals with customers.

Venezuela has been pumping oil this year at the lowest rate in three decades after years of underinvestment and a mass exodus of workers. The state-run firm's collapse has left the country short of cash to fund its embattled socialist government and triggered an economic crisis.

PDVSA's problems were compounded in May when U.S. oil firm ConocoPhillips began seizing PDVSA assets in the Caribbean as payment for a $2 billion arbitration award. An arbitration panel at the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) ordered PDVSA to pay the cash to compensate Conoco for expropriating the firm's Venezuelan assets in 2007.

The seizures left PDVSA without access to facilities such as Isla refinery in Curacao and BOPEC terminal in Bonaire that accounted for almost a quarter of the company's oil exports.

Conoco's actions also forced PDVSA to stop shipping oil on its own vessels to terminals in the Caribbean, and then onto refineries worldwide, to avoid the risk the cargoes would be seized in international waters or foreign ports.

Instead, PDVSA asked customers to charter tankers to Venezuelan waters and load from the company's own terminals or from anchored PDVSA vessels acting as floating storage units.

The state-run company told some clients in early June it might impose force majeure, a temporary suspension of export contracts, unless they agreed to such ship-to-ship transfers.

PDVSA also requested the customers stop sending vessels to its terminals until it could load those that were already clogging Venezuela's coastline.

Initially, customers were reluctant to undertake the transfers because of costs, safety concerns and the need for specialist equipment and experienced crew.

But PDVSA has managed to export about 1.3 million barrels per day (bpd) of oil since early July, up from just 765,000 bpd in the first half of June, according to Thomson Reuters data and internal PDVSA shipping data seen by Reuters.

That was still 59 percent of the country's 2.19 million bpd in contractual obligations to customers for that period, and some vessels are still waiting for weeks in Venezuelan waters to load oil.

There were about two dozen tankers waiting this week to load over 22 million barrels of crude and refined products at the country's largest ports, according to Reuters data.

"We are not tied to one option or a single loading terminal," PDVSA President Manuel Quevedo said on Tuesday of the company's exports. "We have several (terminals) in our country and we have some in the Caribbean, which of course facilitate crude shipping to fulfil our supply contracts."

CUBAN CONNECTION

PDVSA has also used a route through Cuba to ease the impact of the Conoco seizures. That route is for fuel rather than crude.

The Venezuelan company has used a terminal at the port of Matanzas as a conduit mostly for exporting fuel oil, according to two people familiar with the operations and Thomson Reuters shipping data. Venezuela's fuel oil is burned in some countries to generate electricity.

Two tankers set sail from the Matanzas terminal for Singapore between mid-May and early July, Reuters data showed. Each ship carried around 500,000 barrels of Venezuelan fuel, Reuters data shows.

In recent months, Venezuela has been shipping fuel to Matanzas in small batches, according to the data.

PDVSA and Cuba's state-run oil firm Cupet have used Matanzas to store Venezuelan crude and fuel in the past but exports from the terminal to Asian destinations are rare.

That is in part because vessels that use Cuban ports cannot subsequently dock in the United States due to the U.S. commercial embargo on Cuba.

Cupet did not respond to requests for comment.

PDVSA has also used ship-to-ship transfers to fulfil an unusual supply contract it has with Cuba's Cienfuegos refinery.

The refinery dates from the 1980s - when Cuba was a close ally of the Soviet Union during the Cold War - and the facility was built to process Russian crude.

PDVSA typically uses its own or leased tankers to bring Russian crude from storage in the nearby Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao to Cienfuegos. But it is now discharging the imported Russian oil at sea in Cayman Islands' waters via these seaborne transfers.

ConocoPhillips last month ratcheted up its collection efforts by moving to depose officials from Citgo Petroleum, PDVSA's U.S. refining arm, arguing it had improperly claimed ownership of some PDVSA cargoes.

Citgo did not respond to requests for comment.

ConocoPhillips is also preparing new legal actions to get Caribbean courts to recognise its International Chamber of Commerce arbitration award. If it succeeds in those efforts, it would be able to sell the assets to help satisfy the ruling.

(Reporting by Marianna Parraga in Houston and Mircely Guanipa in Punto Fijo, Venezuela; additional reporting by Marc Frank in Havana; Editing by Simon Webb and Brian Thevenot)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Around 17 lakh Maharashtra government employees launched a three-day strike on Tuesday over pending demands including implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission Report with departments like education and medical severely hit.

Mumbai: Around 17 lakh Maharashtra government employees launched a three-day strike on Tuesday over pending demands including implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission Report with departments like education and medical severely hit.

The state government on Monday night directed all employees to report for duty on Tuesday and warned of strict disciplinary action against those who failed to comply under MESMA (Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act) and salary cuts. It also announced payment of pending Dearness Allowance (DA) for 14 months to 1,50,000 gazetted officers, who accordingly withdrew from the three-day agitation.

An official of the Maharashtra State Employees Organisation (MSEO) said that all employees right upto taluka levels have joined the agitation. The MSEO has accused the state government of sitting on its demands including the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission Report, effective from 1 January 2016. However, later it dilly-dallied saying that it was awaiting the report of the KP Bakshi Committtee in the matter as implementing the Commission would entail an additional burden of a staggering Rs 21,000-crore on the debt-hit state. Other major demands include implementation of a five-day week in all government offices, increasing the retirement age from 58 to 60 and filling up urgently over 2,00,000 vacancies in the state.

The MSEO, Maharashtra State Class IV Employees Association and other affiliated associations served a notice to strike to the General Administration Department on 16 July, but there was no response. The unions have said that they will not settle for "mere assurances" but only direct action from the government, since the strike was deferred several times in the past few years on such promises.

Tuesday's action has hit normal work in all government offices including the headquarters, Mantralaya in Mumbai, collectorates, tehsils and talukas, besides educational, medical and other government institutions.
Vinoj Manning, 55, executive director of Ipas Development Foundation (IDF), India, an advocacy group dedicated to preventing and managing unwanted pregnancies, tells IndiaSpend in this interview that no more than 9 percent of all abortions are for sex selection.

-Swagata Yadavar

New Delhi: Abortion was legalised in India almost half a century ago, yet unsafe abortions  performed in unhygienic conditions by untrained providers  are the third largest cause of maternal death. Nearly 78 percent of the more than 15 million abortions conducted annually in India are outside of health facilities, giving rise to safety concerns. There is only one licensed provider for 2,24,000 women in rural areas.

India allows medical termination of a pregnancy of up to 20 weeks gestation to be conducted by a registered medical practitioner. There have been attempts to amend the act to expand the provider base to include nurses and non-allopathic medicine practitioners and extend the deadline to 24 weeks from the current 20.

However, this suggestion has been facing Opposition due to concerns that enlarging the provider base will facilitate sex-selective abortion, which has already dropped Indias sex ratio to 919 girls per 1,000 boys.

So, what must India do to provide safe abortion services?

Vinoj Manning, 55, executive director of Ipas Development Foundation (IDF), India, an advocacy group dedicated to preventing and managing unwanted pregnancies, tells IndiaSpend in this interview that no more than nine percent of all abortions are for sex selection and India must place womens agency, health and rights at the centre of the discussion. He says increasing awareness about safe abortions and expanding officially approved medical facilities are some of the ways to make safe abortion services more accessible.

Before joining IDF in 2002, Manning worked with Swiss Development Cooperation, a Swiss government aid organisation; PATH, a global non-profit; and the National Dairy Development Board. He has a post-graduate diploma in rural management and an MBA Plus leadership certificate from the School of Business, Portland State University, USA.

Abortions cause 10 deaths every day  3,520 deaths a year  according to Planning Commission estimates. What can be done to make abortions safer?

Unfortunately, despite the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act of 1971 that was passed 47 years ago, safe abortion is still not a reality for women in India.

Lack of access to safe abortion due to the paucity of services where they are needed the most  close to their homes and communities  and shortage of legal providers is one of the core reason. Additionally, many women continue to be unaware of abortion being legal in India, and do not know where, when and how they can access safe services.

Abortion continues to be stigmatised, and there is a need for concerted efforts to normalise it in order for women to feel comfortable accessing abortion services from safe and legal providers instead of resorting to back-alley providers.

Do you have any data on the number of legal providers of abortion services in India?

There is no good exact data on the number of abortion providers in the country. Around 10 years back, we at IDF had estimated that there was only one MTP-trained doctor per 224,000 rural population. I do not estimate a dramatic change in this ratio in the last decade. The fact of the matter remains that legal abortion services are non-existent or very rare in the rural areas of India.

Abortions accounted for 3 percent of all non-live births in 2015  i.e., 2,00,000 cases according to National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4). The government estimates that 7,00,000 abortions are conducted per year but this 2017 Lancet study showed there were 15 million abortions in India in 2015. It also showed abortions accounted for one-third of all pregnancies with nearly half of all pregnancies being unintended. Was the governments abortion figure an underestimate? What does the new estimate mean for access to contraception?

The government figure and the Lancet figure refer to two separate measures. The government figure of 7,00,000 stands for the reported number of abortions in medical facilities, while the 15 million estimate refers to the total number of abortions across the country. The Lancet study clarifies that a significant number of abortions take place outside of medical facilities.

Nevertheless, both these figures suggest an unmet need for contraception as well as the need for expanding access to abortion services.

How has the implementation of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, affected access to abortion services in India?

The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, governs abortion services, while POCSO aims to prevent and address child sexual abuse.

These acts overlap where POCSO requires medical providers to report sexual abuse among minors and the MTP Act allows registered providers to terminate pregnancies of minors.

Providers are confused between the conflicting requirements of the two laws  the MTP Act requires them to maintain confidentiality and POCSO mandates them to report all pregnancies to the appropriate authorities as it treats all sex under 18 years of age as non-consensual.

This confusion causes delays, and sometimes leads to denial of abortion services to young girls.

Why did the health ministry withdraw the 2014 MTP amendment that would have allowed abortion up to 24 weeks?

As far as my knowledge goes, the proposed MTP amendment permitting abortions for up to 24 weeks for the special category of women is still under consideration by the ministry. Often, as demonstrated in the slew of court cases in the recent past, access to abortion for survivors of rape and incest, minors, single women and other vulnerable women is delayed for various reasons.

Similarly, many foetal deformities, incompatible with life, can be determined only beyond 20 weeks. This makes it imperative that the proposed amendment to extend the gestation age be passed.

Less than a fourth of all abortions in India are provided in health facilities and the rest through misoprostol and mifepristone pills provided by chemists and informal providers under the medical method of abortion (MMA), the 2017 Lancet study said. Is it because public health facilities do not provide abortion services? Is MMA unsafe without medical supervision?

There is inadequate global or Indian evidence to determine the safety of MMA without medical supervision. While all experts agree that MMA, even without medical supervision, is far safer than the traditional invasive methods, more research is needed to establish the safety record of MMA.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently changed the traditional way of defining abortion as either safe or unsafe. It now classifies abortion into three categories  safe, less safe and least-safe.

This disaggregation of unsafe abortion into less safe and least safe categories acknowledges the relative safety of the self-use of MMA. This is especially important in the Indian context, where it is estimated that a majority of women use MMA at home.

One of the recommendations of the Lancet study was permitting nurses, AYUSH doctors (practitioners of indigenous medicine) and trained midwives to provide abortions. Is there any attempt to do so, and if not, what reservations are holding it back?

The 2014 MTP Act amendment bill is primarily aimed at increasing the availability of safe and legal abortion services for women. One of its recommendations is to expand the provider base by permitting AYUSH providers, nurses and auxiliary nurse midwives (ANMs) to provide early abortion services after training. Such expansion of the provider base would help decentralise safe abortion care and make it more readily accessible. While newspaper reports indicate that the provision has been dropped from the proposed amendments, we are not aware of the actual situation and wont be able to comment on this.

Despite being legal since 1971, many aspects of abortion are unknown to the general public and cause fear of prosecution among the medical community. There are also aspects about amendments to the MTP Act which are unknown. How can the discourse on abortion be separated from its sex-determination aspect?

There is a need to create more awareness. There is a need to keep abortion and sex determination separate as only nine percent of abortions are undertaken for sex selection in India. Both the law enforcement and medical communities must be appraised of the need to keep abortion and gender-biased sex selection separate. It must be reiterated clearly that sex determination is a crime while abortion is legal.

In a recent case where a woman from Mumbai requested medical termination of pregnancy at 25 weeks due to marital discord, the Supreme Court said: abortion amounts to murder. Your comments?

The judgment by the Supreme Court denying a 20-year-old victim of domestic violence the permission to terminate her pregnancy is distressing. At a time when we are drawing attention to the need to recognise womens rights, the judgment has failed to be women-centric and progressive.

In the past, both the Supreme Court and high courts have taken progressive exceptions to the 20-week gestation legal limit imposed by law. The latest judgment negates any progress made in womens access to reproductive health and rights.

Sadly, the language used in the judgment equating abortion with murder has taken the entire debate on womens rights in India back by half a century.

In September 2017, the Supreme Court allowed a 31-week-pregnant 13-year-old rape survivor to abort, though it had previously denied a 10-year-old rape survivor from Chandigarh citing danger to her life. What should be the protocol for abortion when the mother is underage and pregnancy is a result of sexual abuse or rape?

Every case has an individual context and should be handled keeping that in mind. However, the courts should ensure that each woman is able to access her sexual and reproductive health and rights to the full. This can be achieved by keeping the woman, along with her health and right, at the centre of the discussion and the decision.

India has a 12.9 percent unmet need for family planning which has remained almost unchanged in a decade. Yet, this figure does not capture the unmet need for contraception among unmarried women and girls. There are also controversies related to sex education in schools. Do stigma and misinformation impact the use of contraception, leading to more abortion cases?

Yes, there are several myths and misconceptions impacting the use of contraception in our country, and this gets magnified in the case of young, unmarried women. There is a need to bust these myths and misconceptions through awareness and by addressing the stigmatising notions, taboos and behaviour around contraception.

Introducing and promoting comprehensive sex education in schools is important to create awareness among the youth to empower them with knowledge about contraceptive use and safe sexual practices.

(Yadavar is a principal correspondent with IndiaSpend.)
Imran Ali, 24 who was involved in at least nine incidents of rape-cum-murder of minors, including the brutal rape and murder of the minor girl in Kasur which he had confessed to during her murder investigation, Dawn newspaper reported.

Lahore: The convict in a rape and murder of a minor girl in Punjab's Kasur city, which sparked outrage and protests across Pakistan, has been given death penalty by an anti-terrorism court for two more similar cases, according to a media report.

Imran Ali, 24 who was involved in at least nine incidents of rape-cum-murder of minors, including the brutal rape and murder of the minor girl in Kasur which he had confessed to during her murder investigation, Dawn newspaper reported. The anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Monday handed out the death penalty to Ali after the prosecution established the role of Ali in the rape and murder charges framed in the cases, the report said.

He is currently incarcerated and on death-row for the rape and murder of the minor Kasur girl. He was also ordered to pay a fine of Rs 1,500,000 and Rs 75,000 under the compensation determined by the court. Failure to pay the fines will result in an additional six months of imprisonment, the court said.

On Saturday, Ali was given death sentence on 12 counts for the rape and murder of three other minor girls. Three more cases remain pending against him. Earlier this year, the rape and murder of the minor girl in Kasur had sparked outrage and protests across the country.

Ali was nabbed by authorities on 23 January following a DNA-match. He was found to be a serial killer and had confessed to his crimes. On 17 February, he was given a death sentence for abduction, rape and murder in the Kasur girl case.

He was then awarded four counts of the death penalty, one life term, 7-year jail term and Rs 4.1 million in fines back in February for raping and murdering the minor Kasur girl.
An army jawan's wife was found hanging from the ceiling of their home under mysterious circumstances in Shamli district of Uttar Pradesh, a police official said on Tuesday.

Muzaffarnagar: An army jawan's wife was found hanging from the ceiling of their home under mysterious circumstances in Shamli district of Uttar Pradesh, a police official said on Tuesday.

According to SHO Krishan Kumar, Shivani's family has accused her husband and her in-laws of killing her on Monday and then hanging her body to show it as a case of suicide. The incident happened in Manat village under Thana Bhawan police station area.

The woman's father has alleged in his complaint that his daughter was being harassed by her in-laws for dowry, Kumar said. He has alleged that her daughter was living with them for six months following disputes with her in-laws and had returned to her husband's house a few days ago.

The SHO said the army jawan is posted in Ladakh. The body has been sent for post-mortem. No arrest has been made so far.
At least four Army jawans, including a Major, were killed in a fierce gunfight along the Line of Control (LoC) in Gurez sector of north Kashmir's Bandipora district on Monday.

At least four Army jawans, including a major, were killed in a fierce gunfight along the Line of Control (LoC) in Gurez sector of north Kashmir's Bandipora district on Tuesday. At least two militants were also gunned down in the operation. The bodies of two militants could be seen from a distance while two more are believed to have been killed, PTI reported. Further reinforcements were rushed to the encounter site.

The deceased have been identified as Major KP Rane, hawaldars Jamie Singh and Vikramjeet and rifleman Mandeep. Initial reports said a group of eight was trying to infiltrate into the country and one of them, four ran back to Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.

Sources said the gunfight between a group of infiltrating militants and the army erupted at around 1 am at Govind Nallah in Gurez sector of Bandipore district and the operation is still in progress. While defence sources claimed it was an infiltration bid that was foiled, Bandipora DC Shahid Choudhary told The Tribune that there was a ceasefire violation in the Gurez sector. Meanwhile, police sources in north Kashmir said cross-border firing and shelling started on the LoC near Baktoor Gurez.

In July, five militants were killed in a counter-insurgency operation in the Kilora village of South Kashmirs Shopian district. A civilian had died and two others were injured in Gunawpora in the same district when forces opened fire on protesters at the funeral of one of the slain militants.

With inputs from PTI
The debate has been renewed over filing of writ petitions by We the Citizens, an NGO, challenging the validity of both Article 35A and Article 370.

Jawaharlal Nehru was a great man. But he was also a short-sighted politician. More than 50 years after his death, the Indian state is still paying a heavy price for its first prime ministers myopia on Kashmir. It is not enough for leaders to be virtuous. They must also be visionary. Sadly, Nehru was not.

He was admittedly handed a complicated script by Sheikh Abdullah who could never get over his ambition of ruling over an 'independent' Valley instead of trying to be the leader of Jammu and Kashmir (read author Sandeep Bamzai's essay in Observer Research Foundation here) but it is the part of a prime minister's job to deal with complications without losing the sight of the big picture.

If Kashmir is now a festering sore on India's polity threatening to become gangrenous, part of the blame must lie with Nehru who either failed to comprehend the complexity of the issue or was too consumed by 'Partition guilt' and an insecurity over India's (and his) image before the world to take hard-nosed decisions.

He kept Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel out of the negotiations and engaged the task to Gopalaswami Ayyangar, a minister without portfolio, who proved no match for Sheikh Abdullah's guile. Nehru's sidelining of Patel (a big critic of Sheikh Abdullah) on Kashmir has been chronicled, among others, by Major General Sheru Thapliyal (Retd).

In his essay 'Article 370: The Untold Story' for Indian Defence Review, Major General Thapliyal, PhD, refers to the records kept by V Shankar, IAS, who served as the personal secretary to Patel, to write that "it is clear from these records that Nehru finalised the draft of Article 370 along with Sheikh Abdullah without even informing Patel. Thereafter it fell to Ayyangar to get the draft passed in the Constituent Assembly discussions. The proposal was torn to pieces"

Nehru, who was abroad at that time, ironically requested Patel whom he had excluded from the drafting, "to get the Article 370 approved." It is the strength of Patel's character and moral fiber that despite his misgivings about the draft, "he managed to convince the members of Constituent Assembly and Congress Party Executive. But to V Shankar, he said: "Jawaharlal Royega" (Jawaharlal will regret his decision).

Hindol Sengupta, who has authored eight books including a latest on Sardar Patel called The Man Who Saved India, writes that Patel did manage to "convince" the party "but remained sceptical of Abdullah who questioned even the right of the Indian Parliament to consider it. He told Ayyangar, 'Whenever Sheikh Sahib wishes to back out, he always confronts us with his duty to the people. Of course, he owes no duty to India or to the Indian government, or even on a personal basis to you and the Prime Minister (Nehru) who have gone all out to accommodate him'.

BR Ambedkar, incidentally, had refused to draft it. His words to Sheikh Abdullah are still relevant: "You wish India should protect your borders, she should build roads in your area, she should supply you food grains, and Kashmir should get equal status as India. But the Government of India should have only limited powers and Indian people should have no rights in Kashmir. To give consent to this proposal would be a treacherous thing against the interests of India, and I, as the law minister of India, will never do it."

With Patel's death, Sheikh Abdullah's job became easier.

Makkhan Lal, Distinguished Fellow, VIF, writes in his essay Kashmir, Nehru's Idealism and Article 370, "Sardar Patel's death removed whatever restrain was there on Pandit Nehru's idea of dealing with the issue of Kashmir. No longer was there any friend or colleague within the party or in the Cabinet who could advise Nehru's against recklessness In the form of Article 370, Kashmir was granted special status and now with the Nehru-Abdullah Pact, what was merely provisional and very transitory, became permanent. In a way, Abdullah was granted virtually an independent state within India."

It is in this context that we must place the debate for abrogation of Article 35A (derived from Article 370) that has long been denied space in public discourse. The debate has been renewed over filing of writ petitions by We the Citizens, an NGO, challenging the validity of both Article 35A and Article 370.

The petitioners challenge the Constitutionality of the Articles and point out that the Indian Constitution, despite the involvement of four Kashmiri representatives in its drafting, has no mention of any special status. The petitioners say that Article 370 was a "temporary provision" that was exploited to bring a permanently discriminatory amendment (Article 35A), going against the "very spirit of oneness of India". It created a "class within a class of Indian citizens" and violates a bunch of fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution.

The petitioners have also challenged the range and scope of Presidential powers on the back of which Nehru was able to bring the contentious legislation through the backdoor. It needs be mentioned here that while Article 370 was preceded by discussions, negotiation and was shaped by leaders hubris and circumstances (both external and internal), Nehru incorporated the retrogressive, primordial, chauvinistic and gender discriminatory Article 35A through an act of illegality by bypassing the Parliament, ostensibly out of fear that it wont hold muster before lawmakers.

While enacting the provision through a Presidential Order in 1954, President Rajendra Prasad was acting at the Nehru Cabinets behest. In violation of Article 368 of Indian Constitution, the Parliament was never consulted on this crucial piece of legislation that distorts Indian states relationship with its citizens and is also a challenge to its sovereignty.

As Raghav Pandey writes in Firstpost, "The process under Article 368 involves the Parliament and in certain cases, even the state legislatures, to carry out any amendment to the Constitution The Parliament was thereby totally alienated in the process Under the scheme of our Constitution, the President is the head of the executive and has very little legislative role, except under Article 123. Therefore, the Presidential Order of 1954 is also a violation of Article 368 of the Constitution.

Article 35A builds on the special status insurance provided by Article 370. As Krishnadas Rajagopal writes in The Hindu, Article 35A gives the Jammu and Kashmir State Legislature a carte blanche to decide the permanent residents of the State and grant them special rights and privileges in State public sector jobs, acquisition of property within the State, scholarships and other public aid and welfare programmes. Not just that. The provision makes the state legislature immune from legal challenges on grounds of violating the Indian Constitution or any other law of the land."

It is a sad commentary on the political process of our times that 54 years after the death of Nehru, we are still unable to even initiate a debate over one of his biggest mistakes. We would rather bury our heads in the sand and choose internal hemorrhage and slow death than tackle the illness. In no other country such a blatantly discriminatory, unequal law that lies at the heart of Kashmirs alienation from India, prevents its normalisation and creates divisions within the state will be tolerated.

Insurgency movements are not unheard of among modern nation-states. The separatist movement in Kashmir has its origins in the two-nation theory that lies behind the creation of Pakistan and continues to drive Pakistans security and foreign policy. It is based on a premise that religion determines nationality and political affiliation.

Nation-states that face similar ethno-religious challenges to its sovereignty make some accommodations in power-sharing (through the autonomous route) but also try to bring about gradual systemic, demographic and psychographic changes. These are part of the rules of statecraft because no nation-state will tolerate a challenge to its sovereignty especially when insurgency movements within its soil are fueled by external machinations from an enemy state.

Besides, a harmonious spread of ethnicities across the map of a multiverse, multiethnic, heterogenous nation can only work to its advantage by not only precluding the creation of pockets where otherization may take shape and result in complications but also increase trade and investment resulting in greater employment opportunities and lead to uniform and steady development.

Pakistan, for instance, has tried to take the edge off Balochistan insurgency movement by settling four million people in various parts of Balochistan in the past three decades. China, which faces a problem in Xinjiang province where the Uighur minority has greater religious and cultural links with Turkic Muslims in Central Asia than Han Chinese, has tried to implement a similar tactic.

Trouble is, the Valley-based parties and self-declared Kashmiri voices have indulged in such blatant and constant fear-mongering (see here) for decades that even starting a debate over the abrogation of the toxic legislations has become impossible.

I would compare Article 35A to a marriage-deed/nikahnama. You repeal it and the relationship is over. Nothing will remain to be discussed afterwards.  Shah Faesal (@shahfaesal) August 5, 2018

Before the Supreme Court adjourned the hearing of the petitions till 27 August, Kashmir went into a lockdown as the two major political parties rushed in to deliver warnings against the abrogation and its leaders ironically found themselves in the same side as that of the separatists.

As Major General (Retd) Harsha Kakkar writes in Daily O, "The reality is that the Valley-based parties are afraid of losing their support base, because for years they have drilled into the population the thought of demographic change, hence they cannot back down now, though evidence points to the opposite. In addition, there is a latent fear that the BJP would soon become a force in the Valley, eroding their power."

The reality must be acknowledged. The fear-mongering against abrogation of the Articles have been so sustained and deep that there would be huge initial resistance. This is where the leadership must show courage and patience. The Indian state cant be held perpetually at ransom by being constantly fed a warning of consequences and ramifications. It must show resolve to change the discourse and slowly bring about an atmosphere conducive for rational discussion.
The current situation in Assam stems from the failure by the state and society to grasp the long-term implications of unchecked illegal migration.

The policies unveiled by the British Raj and the Muslim League government in Assam to settle migrants from Bengal had already begun to trigger tension among the local populace which were clear warnings that the situation needed attention and a policy to check infiltration from the neighbouring country. But it only turned worse after Independence as hordes of refugees arrived in waves that have continued intermittently in the ensuing decades.

Occasional agitations and accords to check further influx failed to yield the desired results prompting the Supreme Court to intervene after a PIL was filed by Assam Public Works in 2009. Deadlines were set and citizens began to be enrolled in the National Register of Citizens (NRC) with fixed guidelines. The list suffers from anomalies which need immediate rectification but the final outcome of this onerous exercise is still uncertain.

The current situation in Assam stems from the failure by the state and society to grasp the long-term implications of unchecked illegal migration. A few preventive steps adopted on a long-term basis could have ensured a check on the movement of people from across the border. There would be no need for NRC, the migrants flight would take a different course and the shrill voices opposing the identification of foreign nationals in Assam would not have been heard at all. The blame for this must be shared by the people of Assam for not being vigilant enough and the successive governments both at the state and Centre that displayed a total disregard to the danger continuously knocking on the door for the past several decades.

Heres a recap of a few episodes since Independence that had a vital bearing on the trajectory of illegal immigration in Assam and how they helped foreign nationals acquire a dominant position in the state today:

Nehrus Misunderstanding of the Assam Situation

The Congress policy of promoting the interests of the foreign nationals at the expense of Assams began with prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru when he took umbrage at the repeated pleas from the state's first chief minister Gopinath Bordoloi for distribution of the refugees to other states in the country. Bordoloi argued that the state had already undertaken to rehabilitate 2.5 lakhs of refugees and further settlement would only harm the interests of the local landless cultivators since there was a tremendous scarcity of land. The prime minister was enraged and threatened that Assam could expect financial help only if it liberally accepted refugees and granted them lands.

For Nehru, there was no question of Assam lacking surplus land for settlement of the refugees. He was joined by home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in admonishing the state cabinet for its decision to allot land for the locals uprooted from their homes due to floods. For the Centre, the rehabilitation of the Bengali refugees must take precedence over the locals and at one time it had even finalised its own plan to settle them along vacant railway lands which was vehemently opposed by the state government. Nor was the state governments proposal to introduce a permit system for the region to check migrants given importance.

Of course, with the meagre resources of the government, it was not possible to strengthen border surveillance soon after the partition. But the border remained so unguarded that even the deputy commissioner of Sylhet in East Pakistan had the audacity to come to Shillong for a few days without any permission from the Indian government which was brought to the notice of Nehru at Shillong on 7 May 1949 by Bordoloi. But the Centres policies never changed and Bordolois successor Bishnu Ram Medhi faced the same predicament with disastrous consequences for the future.

Sudden halt to PIP scheme in Assam

Conceived by the director of Intelligence Bureau BN Mullick, the Prevention of Infiltration from Pakistan Scheme (PIP) was begun in 1964 as a centrally sponsored scheme to detect and deport illegal migrants from East Pakistan. The exercise continued till 1969 when it was abruptly stopped by the Congress due to the apprehension that a sizeable vote bank would be lost in the general elections. Also, the untimely death of chief minister Bimala Prasad Chaliha left the state without any leader of the stature who might have ignored the pressure from the Centre.

As a result, there was no official estimate of the numbers that crossed the border following the genocide in East Pakistan in 1971 (the unofficial figure is 10 lakh). If the PIP scheme had been in vogue, an estimate would have been possible and a plan could have been firmed up to distribute the refugees all over the country. Bangladesh was indebted to India for the war and it would have accepted back the refugees if prime minister Indira Gandhi had inserted a clause in the Indira-Mujib Pact. The tradition established by the Congress to keep party interests above the national became so entrenched that it was also emulated by the BJP, CPM and regional parties like the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Trinamool Congress decades later.

When Election Commission turned a blind eye to Mangaldai

Among all the government agencies, the Election Commission has caused the maximum harm to Assam by turning a blind eye to the flawed electoral rolls which included the names of foreign nationals. In 1978, the Assam Police had identified 47,658 voters of doubtful origin in Mangaldai Lok Sabha constituency. Around 6 lakh more cases were detected when the exercise was extended to 80 Assembly constituencies by the Assam government. The operation was called off after the Janata Party government was toppled in and Presidents Rule imposed in the state.

Objections filed before the Election Commission against the foreign nationals in the electoral rolls were never disposed of and tribunals constituted for these cases (under Representation of the People Act 1951) following the uproar in the state were also never taken to a logical conclusion. In the years ahead, the number of illegal migrants who acquired the right to vote began to swell and some Assembly constituencies completely hijacked in western and central Assam.

The case of Kamaluddin deserves special mention to underscore the perilous state of affairs that had enveloped Assam. He had gathered a passport through fraudulent means and even contested the Assembly polls from Jamunamukh in 1996! He was apprehended by the police two years later and deported to Bangladesh. Undeterred by the setback, he crossed the border again to file a case in Gauhati High Court (Case No  2501 of 1998) challenging the deportation on the ground that he was a citizen of village Kapahbari with landed property. The government contested his claims by producing irrefutable evidence that he hailed from Bangladesh and was deported again.

Assam Agitation, Assam Accord and AGP

That the Assamese are also to blame for the mess in the state is amply evidenced by the consequences of the Assam Accord which brought the historic six-year agitation against foreign nationals to a close in 1985. The agreement was hurriedly drafted on 14 August 1985 since prime minister Rajiv Gandhi had made up his mind to make the announcement on Independence Day. The delegates from Assam who signed on the document did not possess the wisdom to comprehend that certain words in the accord could be a barrier to its implementation in the future.

For instance, it is now accepted by many sections that instead of "Assamese people" in Clause 6 that seeks to provide constitutional safeguards, a better option would have been either "people of Assam" or "Indian citizens of Assam". Till date, there is no definition of Assamese which has thwarted all efforts to implement the vital clause. There was also no timeframe for implementation of the accord and as it turned out years later, only the clause to set up the IIT and refinery was given importance which was never the focus of the agreement.

The AGP won the Assembly polls held four months after the accord with the mandate to identify and deport illegal migrants from the state. But as it transpired later, implementation of the accord was never a priority for the party. For these country bumpkins, it was more important to get married and amass wealth through nefarious means. The worse came in 1996 when the AGP plummeted further by seeking votes from the Bangladeshi migrants! It again swept to power but brushed the issue of illegal migrants once more under the carpet. With no initiative at all to check the demographic influx, the All Assam Students' Union was compelled to conclude another pact with the Centre and state government in 2005 for the implementation of the earlier accord where the need for the NRC was spelt out explicitly.

Governor Lt Gen (Retd) SK Sinhas report put in cold storage

Alarmed over the continuing influx and the consequent demographic change in the state, Assam governor Lt Gen (Retd) SK Sinha dashed off a 42-page report titled Report on Illegal Migration Into Assam to the President on 8 November 1998. The BJP-led government at the Centre found it convenient to leak the report to the media which was carried on the front page of most national dailies at that time. Hopes were raised when the BJP was finally able to secure the magic number to form the government with its allies after the general election of 1999. But as it turned out, the BJP was hardly any different from the Congress.

A persistent demand from Assam was the repeal of a law  Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunals) Act  which was introduced in the state in 1985 for detection of foreign nationals but applicable only in the state while the rest of the country had a different law. The law shielded the illegal migrants since the onus of providing evidence was vested in the government. The governors report suggested that the law should be "repealed and replaced by a new legislation" but the BJP never bothered to broach the topic or even implement any preventive measure to check infiltration. Further, a decision was taken to shut the office of the Commissioner of Border under the home ministry in Guwahati which prompted chief minister Tarun Gogoi to make an appeal to revoke the decision. Although the IMDT Act was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2005 in the Sarbananda Sonowal vs Union of India case nothing much has happened beyond that. Sonowal was the then an integral part of AASU. He is now the incumbent chief minister of Assam.

That most of the recommendations by the former governor have been put on the backburner is also evidenced by home minister Rajnath Singhs ignorance when he was asked by a few senior citizens in Guwahati on 3 January 2015 at Hotel Brahmaputra Ashok to spell out the reasons for the non-implementation of the report. Singh had no answer -- he had never heard of the report! It remains a mystery why preventive measures against infiltration except efforts to seal the India-Bangladesh border have not yet been executed. The report had proposed the registration of country boats and floating border outposts (BoP) in the rivers along the border but they continue to remain only on paper.

MHAs policy: Ignore and wake up only in emergency

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) must also share the blame for the volcanic circumstances in Assam today. On 23 June, former home secretary GK Pillai delivered a stinging indictment of the very ministry he served seven years ago while participating in a panel discussion on the NRC at India International Centre. He was of the opinion that the home ministry had never discussed the implementation of constitutional safeguards in Assam during 2001-09 when he had gone for deputation to another ministry.

While it is not precisely known if there was any deliberation on the topic in North Block during that period, such a statement from a former home secretary should make the ministry concerned and scurry for introspection. This writer covered the ministry during 2006-7 and what became most evident was the lack of a long-term policy on many vital issues of internal security. It appears that the objective of most bureaucrats in the home ministry is only to extend their tenure in the ministry by procuring a favourable annual confidential report from their seniors.

That it is time for evaluation of the ministrys role and performance comes from another recent example when several leaders belonging to the six communities in Assam demanding Scheduled Tribe status were summoned for a meeting to North Block. On 20 July, some of them were quoted by the local media as saying that Rajnath insulted them since he had no time to discuss the issue. The ministry had shelved the demand following objections by other groups from the state and the meeting was held only after a plea from the state government. The groups and many civil society organisations feel that the ST status could be a shield against foreign nationals as it will mean reservation of seats in elected bodies.
At least seven photojournalists, including an Associated Press (AP) photographer, were injured in attacks with sharp weapons, sticks and iron rods by youths wearing helmets at Dhanmondi, Jigatala and Science Laboratory areas on Sunday, while covering the protests.

Dhaka: Journalists in Bangladesh on Tuesday gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest those involved in attacks on some of their colleagues while covering the unprecedented protests by the students over road safety, according to media reports.

At least seven photojournalists, including an Associated Press (AP) photographer, were injured in attacks with sharp weapons, sticks and iron rods by youths wearing helmets at Dhanmondi, Jigatala and Science Laboratory areas on Sunday, while covering the protests.

Thousands of students brought parts of the Bangladesh capital to a standstill after two teenagers were killed by a speeding bus on 29 July. A large number of journalists and photojournalists also gathered in front of the Jatiya Press Club in Dhaka on Tuesday morning and formed a human chain in protest against the attacks, the Daily Star reported.

"Journalists gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government for arresting those who attacked some their colleagues during the ongoing student movement seeking safe roads. Otherwise, they will launch tougher programmes from 11 August," President of Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Molla Jalal was quoted as saying while addressing protesting scribes at the Jatiya Press Club.

They demanded the government to identify and arrest those involved in attacks on journalists after analysing the video footages. "I am urging the information minister and home minister to sit with the journalists and try to identify those who played a role in the attacks and ensure they are punished," BFUJ general secretary Shaban Mahmud was quoted as saying in the Daily Star.

A number of journalists also formed a human chain at the SAARC Fountain in Karwan Bazar area. It is alleged that students associated with the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) which is associated with the ruling Awami League and the Bangladesh Juba League (BJL)  the ruling party's youth front, were involved in attacks on journalists, media reports said.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader have asked journalists to come up with clear evidence that the BCL was involved in the attacks on their colleagues."Tell me specifically who from Chhatra League were involved? Please give me a list," he told reporters during a press conference at the party chief's office at Dhanmondi on Monday.

He refuted allegations that members of the ruling party's student wing were involved in the attacks on the journalists in the Dhanmondi area on Sunday. Meanwhile, the police have arrested 11 people for the violence during the unprecedented protests by the students over road safety.

"Police have registered 27 cases and the number of arrestees and cases would rise," Md Muntasirul Islam, a deputy commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police was quoted as saying by the bdnews24.com. Six people were detained over student-police clashes at Shahbagh on Monday.
The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), an ally of the BJP, may abstain from the election to the post of the deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha on Thursday as it is upset with the nomination of Harivansh Narayan Singh

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), an ally of the BJP, may abstain from the election to the post of the deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha on Thursday as it is upset with the nomination of Harivansh Narayan Singh, sources said on Monday. The decision was taken at a meeting of SAD leaders at the residence of its President Sukhbir Badal in Delhi.

The Akali Dal will also hold a meeting of its core committee at 10 am on Tuesday, The Hindu reported.

There was speculation that Akali Dal's Naresh Gujral could be fielded by the NDA but he had made it clear that he will contest only if he is a consensus candidate. Gujral's name cropped up as he could attract the support of non-NDA parties like TDP and BJD, whose chiefs N Chandrababu Naidu and Biju Patnaik have close connections with him and his family, the Deccan Herald reported.

According to The Tribune's report, SAD is upset for being ignored and doesn't support NDA backing Harivansh at a time when he could not get enough votes even for a Public Accounts Committee seat.

The party has three lawmakers in the upper house, including Naresh Gujral, whose name was also in contention. The NDA, which has 110 members in the upper house including the Akali Dal, is counting on the support of Naveen Patnaik's BJD and K Chandrasekhar Rao's TRS as between them, the two parties have 15 votes, which will give the NDA 125 votes. However, an abstention by the Akali Dal will bring down the tally to 123, but it would also lower the magic number to 121, according to an NDTV report.

Earlier on Monday, Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu announced in the House that the election will be held at 11 am on 9 August. He also suggested that the deputy chairman should be elected by consensus. The nomination papers will have to be filed before noon on 8 August.

The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since June following the retirement of P J Kurien, who was elected to the Upper House of Parliament on a Congress ticket from Kerala. While the BJP-led NDA did not make any formal announcement, sources said Harivansh, a first-time parliamentarian, is likely to be their choice for the post.
The Bombay High Court is going to hear a PIL filed by a Maratha rights group regarding reservation quotas for the community on Tuesday.

The Bombay High Court will hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on Tuesday filed by a Maratha rights group regarding reservation quotas for the community. The hearing was brought forward by a week amid continuing violence in the state, and a spate of suicides over the demand. The court will hear a petition seeking directions to the Maharashtra government and the Maharashtra State Commission for Backward Classes to come up with a deadline on implementing quotas for the Maratha community. According to Livemint, the commission will also submit a report to the court on the progress it has made so far and the time it will take to submit its final report to the state government.

The PIL was filed by Maratha Kranti Morcha leader Vinod Patil, and was earlier slated for hearing on 14 August, Free Press Journal reported. However, a division bench of Justices Ranjit More and Anuja Prabhudesai later posted the matter for hearing on 7 August.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, and the two are believed to have discussed this issue for over an hour.

On Monday, Fadnavis had said that all constitutional obligations in connection with the granting of reservations to the Maratha community in the state would be completed by November this year. Fadnavis, during a 15-minute address on State television and radio, said that the Maharashtra State Backward Class Commission (MSBCC) would inform the Bombay High Court on Tuesday about when it will submit its report regarding the Maratha quota.

He said that once the report of the MSBCC was submitted, a special session of the state legislature would be convened within a month to pass a "law or resolution" regarding granting reservations to the community. The chief minister said MSBCC was a statutory body and cannot be "pressurised" (to submit the report quickly). Hours later, state unit Congress president Ashok Chavan said he hoped Devendra Fadnavis walk the talk.

"It's the government, and not the Opposition, which is politicising the quota agitation. We hope Fadnavis will walk the talk," Chavan said in a statement. He said the Congress had repeatedly appealed to agitators against resorting to violence and destructing public property.

The same day, NCP MP Udayanraje Bhosale said, "If the Maharashtra government failed to act swiftly, the Maratha quota stir might turn into a "Naxal movement" in no time. He expressed apprehension that the situation might spiral out of control if the BJP-led government continued to drag its feet on the issue, as the youth are in no mood to listen.

With inputs from PTI
Abu Salem's please said that his request should be considered on 'humanitarian grounds' as he cannot shun his duty towards the woman he promised to marry.

Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Tuesday refused to grant parole to gangster Abu Salem to marry, observing that he has been convicted on a serious charge of terrorism.

Salem, 46, sentenced to life imprisonment in the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts case, had moved the high court seeking release from prison on parole for a month as he wants to marry Kausar Bahar, a resident of Mumbra area in Thane district. The gangster, who is lodged at Taloja jail in Navi Mumbai, approached the high court after prison authorities rejected his plea for parole.

Rejecting the petition, a division bench of Acting Chief Justice VK Tahilramani and Justice MS Sonak observed Salem has been convicted on the serious charge of terrorism and hence cannot be released on parole.

In his petition, Salem said he is lodged in jail since November 2005. The applicant had said the parole request should be considered on "humanitarian grounds" as he cannot shun his duty towards the woman since he has promised to marry her, and that she also does not intend to marry anyone else. Salem said he should be allowed to maintain family and social ties.

In his plea, he did not mention the date when he intends to marry.

In 2017, a special court convicted Salem in the 1993 blasts case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) and the Arms Act. The court had sentenced him to life imprisonment in the case.
Britain's left-wing Green Party on Tuesday threw its support behind the pro-Khalistan rally planned at Trafalgar Square in London on Sunday, an event opposed by India.

London: Britain's left-wing Green Party on Tuesday threw its support behind the pro-Khalistan rally planned at Trafalgar Square in London on Sunday, an event opposed by India. The co-leader of the political party, which campaigns for environmentally friendly policies, spoke out in favour of the so-called "London Declaration" for a "Referendum 2020 campaign seeking a "sovereign state of Khalistan", being organised by US-based group Sikhs for Justice.

"Sikh people have a right to determine for themselves whether they want to establish an independent Punjabi state, said Caroline Lucas, the party's only elected MP in the House of Commons.

"I stand in solidarity with all those joining the London Declaration, and those fighting discrimination and campaigning for a referendum around the world," she said.

The first open support from a British MP for the controversial rally came as the UK government reiterated its stance on the issue had remained unchanged. A UK government spokesperson had said in a statement last month: In the UK people have the right to gather together and to demonstrate their views, provided that they do so within the law.

India has registered its formal opposition to the event through a demarche when news of the rally emerged in July, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) saying it expected the UK government would not allow any such group whose intention was to spread hatred and impact our bilateral relations to use UK soil for such a rally.

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) says the rally is intended to raise awareness for a non-binding referendum in 2020, calling for the Sikh-majority state of Punjab to be granted independence. "It is the success of the British Sikh community, which sent more than 47,000 emails to their MPs urging them to support London Declaration and oppose India's interference, said Paramjeet Singh Pamma, one of the organisers and UK-based Khalistani activist wanted in India over his alleged involvement in bombings in Punjab in 2010  charges he denies.

Scotland Yard said it had not received any complaints regarding the event on Sunday, which will be allowed to go ahead without any restrictions. There are no restrictions on the event and we have not received any complaints. An appropriate and proportionate policing plan is in place, a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said.

Opposition Labour party MP Preet Kaur Gill, who chairs the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Sikhs as the first female Sikh MP in the House of Commons, said she supported the group's right to protest safely and in peace with all relevant permissions.

She struck a note of caution that non-binding referendum have a very little impact on governments and called on the organisers to give due regard to the possible implications of those taking part in any such potential referendum, as the issue has seen some young people imprisoned in India for promoting the idea.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has declared the results of Class 12 Compartment Exam 2018. Students who appeared for the exams can visit the official website to check their results, cbse.nic.in.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has declared the results of Class 12 Compartment Exam 2018. Students who appeared for the exams can visit the official website to check their results, cbse.nic.in.

CBSE had conducted the compartmental examination for class 12th from 16 July to 24 July for all subjects.

How to check your scores

- Log on to the official websites of the board - cbse.nic.in.

- Click on the link which says, 'Class 12 Compartment Exam Results'.

- Enter roll number and other details.

- Your result will be displayed on the screen.

- Download the result and take a print out.

About 11.86 lakh students had registered for the Class 12 or All India Senior School Certificate Examination (AISSCE), which were held at 4,138 centres in India and 71 centres abroad.
There has been a decline in the medical condition of M Karunanidhi's health, doctors at Kauvery Hospital told reporters on Monday. Speaking to reporters, doctors at the Kauvery Hospital said keeping his vital organs functioning remains a 'challenge'.

There has been a decline in the medical condition of M Karunanidhi's health, doctors at Kauvery Hospital told reporters on Monday. Speaking to reporters, doctors at the Kauvery Hospital said keeping his vital organs functioning remains a "challenge". "There has been a decline in the medical condition of DMK president and former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. Maintaining his vital organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age related ailments," it said.

"His response to the medical interventions over the next 24 hours will determine the prognosis," Executive Director of the Hospital Dr Aravindan Selvaraj said in the terse two-paragraph release.

On Tuesday, ANI reported images from outside the Kauvery Hospital showing supporters of Karunanidhi who flocked to the hospital premises after reports stated that his health is declining.

Latest visuals from outside Chennai's Kauvery hospital where former Tamil Nadu CM M Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment. The hospital stated a decline in his medical condition yesterday pic.twitter.com/PXCIVPoMzo  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Karunanidhi's daughter and DMK MP Kanimozhi visited the ailing DMK chief on Tuesday, as well.

DMK leader Kanimozhi meets people gathered outside Chennai's Kauvery hospital where her father and former Tamil Nadu CM M Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment. The hospital stated a decline in his medical condition yesterday. pic.twitter.com/l87nQ0PwJf  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

The 94-year-old five-time Tamil Nadu chief minister was being continuously monitored and treated with active medical support, a press release issued by the hospital said.

Soon after the news of a decline in Karunanidhi's condition spread, hundreds of his supporters gathered outside the hospital, including a large number of women, some failing to control their tears, others waving at the TV cameras, preparing for an overnight vigil at the facility in downtown Alwarpet.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari visited Kauvery Hospital and inquired about Karunanidhi's health. Gadkari was received by former Union Minister A Raja, after which he met Karunanidhi's son and DMK working president M K Stalin and other family members.

Police, meanwhile, increased the deployment of its personnel here as the whole of Eldams Road junction at the upscale Alwarpet area here teemed with DMK cadres. Stalin and several legislators, including Duraimurugan left the hospital premises by 10.10 pm on Monday.

Karunanidhi was admitted to the intensive care unit of the hospital on July 28 following a dip in blood pressure, which stabilised following medical intervention.

The hospital had, however, said on July 31 that an extended stay could be necessary due to age-related overall decline in his general health, altered liver function and haematological parameters.

A host of dignitaries and political leaders, including President Ram Nath Kovind Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi have visited the hospital over the last few days to inquire about the condition of the DMK veteran.

With inputs from PTI
Amid the recurrent tussle between the bureaucrats and the Delhi government ministers, the state legislative assembly on Monday passed a resolution asking the government to set up its own public service commission within six weeks to have state-cadre officials.

New Delhi: Amid the recurrent tussle between the bureaucrats and the Delhi government ministers, the state legislative assembly on Monday passed a resolution asking the government to set up its own public service commission within six weeks to have state-cadre officials. Before the passage of the resolution, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia alleged "conspiracy" to sabotage the work of AAP dispensation.

The resolution directs the government to take all necessary steps to complete the process of setting up such Commission within a period of six weeks so that the "deficiency" in providing services - be it in education, health, environment or other sectors - becomes a "thing of past". AAP MLA Saurabh Bharadwaj moved the resolution which was adopted by the House with a voice vote. "The unfilled vacancies are increasing year after year due to involvement of multiplicity of agencies in recruitment process and huge workload and set priorities of recruiting agencies such as UPSC...," it stated.

The unfilled vacancies lead to "deficiency" in delivery of services resulting in lot of difficulties for the political executive in spite of its "demonstrated will" to improve the living standards of the people of Delhi by providing world class services in the national capital territory, the resolution also stated.

Before adopting the resolution, Sisodia alleged that the AAP government's works are being "hampered" through services matter even after the July 4 Supreme Court order that clipped the powers of Delhi Lt Governor. Participating in the discussion, the deputy chief minister alleged that services matter is not only limited to the transfer and postings of officers and instead, it extends to every thing like vigilance, creation of new vacancies and among others to execute government's works. "It (services) has been encroached upon to ensure corruption from the back door...it is a conspiracy to hamper the government's works so that corruption continues to prevail," Sisodia said without taking name of anyone.

In the past, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and other AAP leaders have alleged that BJP-led central government is creating hurdles in the functioning of Delhi government. Explaining problems faced by the political executive, Sisodia said that if Delhi government constructs 8,000 new classrooms in schools, there is also a need of recruiting teachers, but the government does not have the services matter. "It is conspiracy to sabotage the works of Delhi government," Sisodia alleged.

Deputy chief minister said that after the apex court's order, the Delhi Cabinet does not need L-G's nod for approval of its decisions, but hurdles are allegedly being created through services matters. He said Delhi government wants to set up 25 skill centres across the city, but in the last three months, "three secretaries and two directors of directorate of higher education have been transferred." "How will government set up skill centres?," he asked.
The gosadan or cow shelter is one of the five such establishments that receive government aid: Rs 20 per cow per day from the Delhi government.

On the western fringes of the national capital that border Haryana, lies an urban village called Ghummanhera. Somewhere in the depths of a barren field of that village stands the 19-acre Acharya Sushil Muni Gosadan, which, as per Delhi government, has the capacity to house 4,142 cows. Here, more than 30 cows died within a week. The gosadan or cow shelter is one of the five such establishments that receive government aid: Rs 20 per cow per day from the Delhi government and the same amount from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi.

As required under Section 10 of the Delhi Agricultural Cattle Preservation Act, 1994, the government of Delhi, through non-governmental organisation, had established gosadans for the reception, maintenance and care of agricultural cattle. So, these are structures that provide shelter to cows and bulls that are dumped by private owners either because the animals are injured or have stopped producing milk. Largely, the animals given shelter are economically undesirable. These are merely procuring agents for unfit and abandoned cows, and not milk-producing or profit-generating establishments.

At Ghummanhera's gosadan, a caretaker who identified himself as Vinod said that a local who was politically connected took autonomous charge of the operations and banned the entry of the Delhi governments doctors or the MCD personnel. We have not transported cattle to the gosadan in nearly two years. There was a management dispute and we have no clarity on which authority is running the shelter, said Dr Hemant Kaushik, Deputy Director, South Delhi Municipal Corporation.

The scene at the Ghummanhera gosadan was tense. There was a long line of trucks in which 1,000 cows were being transported to the Dabar Hare Krishna Gaushala, Surhera, Najafgarh, which is the largest government-aided cow shelter in the capital. When Firstpost hit ground zero, there were cow carcasses covered with green cloth and placed on wooden planks and some others were being buried near the gate of the shelter.

A senior veterinary doctor of the Delhi government, who wished to remain anonymous, was inspecting batches of animals before they boarded trucks. Theres a team of 12 vets plus three post-mortem specialists from nearly 30 animal medical establishments who, in light of this incident, have left all their work to dedicate themselves to cow shelters that were being mismanaged for two full years. Why wasnt any action being taken against it if the MCD and Delhi government doctors were being denied entry into its premises for months on end?"

"This amounts to cow slaughter but because cow deaths take place due to administrative laxity over a period of time, they rarely get as much attention, he alleged.

The 16-acre Manav Gau Sadan at Rewla Khanpur, another one of the five government-aided shelters that has the capacity to shelter 3,488 cattle, had filed a case against the Delhi government because its license was cancelled on grounds of inadequate facilities. Because of a court stay order four years ago, the cows cannot be transported to another shelter. But nor can the Manav Gau Sadan accept new cows brought in by the MCD. On what basis the state government decides to give the contract of such gau sadans needs to be ascertained, especially when there is a history of inefficient operation or in the case of the latter, no operation at all. The Delhi government and the MCD are spending Rs 14,600 per cow per year on these centres.

Firstpost also visited a gosadan at Surhera, which will now bear the brunt of another 1,000 cows being shifted from Ghummanhera. Satish, the chief caretaker at Surhera, said that the shelter accepts cows from four corporations, namely the South Delhi Municipal Corporation, the North Delhi Municipal Corporation, the East Delhi Municipal Corporation and the New Delhi Municipal Corporation.

He added that the Cantonment Board also occasionally brings in cattle gone astray in the cantonment region. The health state of the cattle thats brought here is deplorable. Stomachs are full of polythene or legs are injured. The burden of cows is increasing day by day. Although on paper we have a good capacity (24 acres), the animals need space, more so if they are diseased and need to be quarantined, Satish said.

He clarified that the shelter has nearly 2,800 animals and only generates 40-50 litres of milk. The revenue from the sale of cow dung was not more than Rs 5 lakh a year. The carcasses are collected by the East Delhi Municipal Corporation and taken to slaughter houses in Ghazipur. Krishan Yadav, the main founder of this particular gosadan, alleged that he hasnt received funding from the MCD in over two years and even the Delhi government funding hasnt come in since December.

Dr Rakesh Singh, director, Animal Husbandry, Delhi Government, located the root cause of the problem in the inability to identify owners of stray cows. There is no rule to stamp cows with a livestock registration number. Those who do it, do it for their own convenience but theres no binding law around it. Once a cow is left to stray, theres absolutely no way to find out who its caretaker is, he stated.

Last year, advocate SN Bhardwaj approached the Delhi High Court seeking action against such cow owners as per provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960. A large number of cows are found eating garbage not only on Delhi roads but also across the country. Animal Welfare Board of India, being the statutory authority and legally bound to perform its duty in accordance with Central Act, Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, failed to discharge its duty, the PIL cited.

It also sought the appointment of a high-powered commission headed by a former Chief Justice of India to suggest ways for protection of cows. It also appealed to the court to direct authorities to allocate more land for cow shelters.

Oddly, for conducting evaluation study of the scheme "Setting up of 10 Gausadans, a field survey was conducted during September and October 1999 for seven gosadans and five gaushalas. It was observed that most of the gosadans were running under extreme financial hardship. A number of them also expressed their inability to improve gosadans due to economic crunch.

Nearly two decades later, and after multiple governments in power both in the Centre, in Delhi and in the MCD, the situation remains quite the same. The survey also assessed the five privately-run gaushalas where it was noticed that their financial condition is far better than the gosadans run by NGOs.

The prime reason for this is that they receive greater donations as compared to gosadans run by NGOs. The high mortality rate in NGOs gosadans possibly hinder the desire to donate among the public. People feel more comfortable donating to private cow shelters because they feel only sick cows dumped by others come to us and that we are already shielded by generous government aid, added Satish, the caretaker at Surhera.

Half a year ago, the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) floated a plan to generate electricity from garbage, for which it proposed to set up a waste-to-energy plant on 50 acres of land at Tehkhand area in South east Delhi.

The biogas plants were proposed to be set up at two cow shelters  Manav Gosadan and the Ghummanhera Gosadan  along with two dairies. Till today, neither of the gaushalas have these bio-treatment plants that could have generated electricity from cow dung. RPS Tyagi of the SDMC told Firstpost that the tender is ready and once the engineering department finishes its work, the plants will open up. But the staff at the gosadans must also be skilled and willing to operate the plants along with the municipal authorities.

A Central Pollution Control Board report 2015 stated that Delhi generates 689.52 tonne of plastic waste every single day and the MCD finds new cows astray on the citys streets every day. In the context of the failure of administrative mechanisms, the death of cows in state-funded shelters arouses neither shock nor sorrow.
Rita Bahuguna Joshi, Uttar Pradesh Women and Child Welfare minister commented on the sexual exploitation racket at the Deoria shelter home that came to light on Monday in Uttar Pradesh, saying that the parties whose regimes shelter homes like in Muzaffarpur and Deoria grew, are now turning the issue into a political one.

Rita Bahuguna Joshi, woman and child welfare minister of Uttar Pradesh, said on Tuesday that strict action will be taken against those found guilty of negligence or connivance in the sexual exploitation racket that came to light in the state's Deoria district.

She also took potshots at the Opposition parties, saying parties under whose regimes shelter homes in Muzaffarpur and Deoria grew, are now turning the issue into a political one.

Joshi also said that whether it was "negligence or connivance" will be decided when the reports come in, ANI reported. She said Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is firm that those responsible will not be spared. "The chief minister is monitoring this issue, " she said.

On Monday, Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi expressed shock over the incident saying that there would be more such places to unearth. Gandhi claimed that MPs across all states were not paying attention to their constituencies despite several warnings. "Not a single MP has ever visited any shelter homes in their constituency to check what is happening behind those closed doors," she said.

DNA reported that she asked the states to build a single large central facility to house such children in a bid to prevent "abuse and misuse" by NGOs. She said the adoption and skill development programmes in a central facility would be much easier and it would also help in checking "abuse and misuse" by NGOs who are running their own shelter homes with grants from the government.

"I have been asking for a scheme where each state should have a single large facility to house all such girls and children which should be run by the state government," she said.

Twenty-four girls were rescued from a shelter home in Deoria after allegations of sexual exploitation of the inmates came to light, prompting the Uttar Pradesh government to swing into damage control mode by removing the district magistrate and ordering a high-level probe.

Police said three people, including a couple who ran the shelter, were arrested in connection with the matter. "Twenty-four girls were rescued on Sunday from the shelter home at station road in the name of Ma Vindhyawasini Mahila Prakishan Evam Samaj Sewa Sansthan, which has 42 inmates. Eighteen inmates are still missing. We have sealed it," superintendent of police Rohan P Kanay said in Deoria.

The details of activities at the shelter home emerged when a 10-year-old girl managed to flee. She reached a woman police station and informed them about the plight of the inmates. "Many times white, black and red cars used to come and take away the girls. When the returned in the morning, they used to cry," the girl alleged.

The SP of Deoria said the young girl told the police that around 4 pm every day, some people came and took away some girls along with the manager. The 10-year-old girl belongs to Bihar's Bettiah city and she also told the police that she escaped because of heavy workload.

Girija Tripathi and her husband Mohan Tripathi, who operated the shelter home, were arrested along with its superintendent Kanchanlata. However, Girija Tripathi told reporters that the charges were baseless and payment of last three years was pending, so she was running the shelter home.

The Deoria SP was directed by the Uttar Pradesh police headquarters in Lucknow has promised to take stern action against the culprits. "The entire matter will be investigated and the local administration is already taking action. The Women and Child Development Department is also coordinating. The inquiry will be done under proper legal procedure," ADG law and order Anand Kumar said in Lucknow.

The medical test of the children would be made by a woman doctor and the statement recorded before a magistrate, Anand said.

The matter comes in the backdrop of the alleged sexual abuse of young girls at a state-funded shelter home in Bihar's Muzaffarpur which led to a public outcry. Sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in medical examination.

With inputs from PTI
Karunanidhi, a five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu, was admitted to Kauvery hospital on 28 July after a dip in his blood pressure and has since been under treatment.

DMK chief M Karunanidhi died on Tuesday evening in Chennai's Kauvery Hospital. The 94-year-old, five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu was admitted to the hospital on 28 July after a dip in his blood pressure and had since been under treatment.

On 31 July, the hospital had said that an extended stay in the facility could be necessary due to age-related overall decline in his general health, altered liver function and hematological parameters.

A host of dignitaries and political leaders, including President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, had visited the hospital over the past few days to inquire about the condition of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam party veteran.

On Tuesday, Karunanidhi's supporters flocked to Kauvery Hospital after the hospital said that his health was declining. Soon after, security was heightened around the hospital premises.

Latest visuals from outside Chennai's Kauvery hospital where former Tamil Nadu CM M Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment. The hospital stated a decline in his medical condition yesterday pic.twitter.com/PXCIVPoMzo  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Born on 3 June, 1924, in Nagapattinam district's Thirukkuvalai village in erstwhile Madras presidency, the 94-year-old led Tamil Nadu five times as chief minister. He had contested a dozen Assembly elections in his eight-decade political career and won them all.

A master at mobilising crowds, organising party cadre and raising funds, Karunanidhi became the "go-to man" of the DMK. In 1967, when Annadurai became the chief minister of the state, Karunanidhi was appointed the Minister for Public Works and Highways, the third-ranking job in the state cabinet.

After Annadurai's death in 1969, Karunanidhi became the chief minister of Tamil Nadu as well as the DMK president  a post he held till his death  and led the party to a massive victory in the 1971 snap Assembly elections.
The fatal shooting of a UTC student last Dec. 28 was the aftermath of a drug deal, according to testimony at a recent hearing.

Charges of criminal homicide and especially aggravated robbery were bound to the Grand Jury against 22-year-old Terrence Lewis in the death of Evan "Thad" Derry, of Franklin, Tn.

General Sessions Court Judge Alex McVeigh kept the bond for Lewis at $600,000, though his attorney, former Judge Rebecca Stern, said it was too high "for a circumstantial case."

Baxter McCurry said he had met Derry in April 2017 after moving to Chattanooga from Hawaii. The Whitwell High graduate said they were involved in marijuana sales together with Derry providing the drugs.

McCurry said he met Lewis when he (Lewis) was working as a Uber driver. He said Lewis apparently smelled marijuana on him and Ricky - his co-worker at The Feed restaurant on Main Street. He said Lewis asked about acquiring marijuana and Ricky provided him with a gram.

Afterward, McCurry said he began supplying marijuana to Lewis. He said on one occasion he and Derry supplied a pound and a half of marijuana to Lewis and he "vanished" without paying. The witness said later that Lewis said he had been robbed and lost his money, marijuana and cell phone.

McCurry said Lewis stated that they could recoup the money he owed them by arranging a marijuana deal with his uncle. Lewis said they could include enough in the price for 15 pounds of marijuana to cover the debt. He said they spoke one time with the uncle.

He said Lewis told them to come with the large amount of marijuana to an address near some apartments on Bishop Drive. McCurry said he and Derry loaded 10 pounds into a suitcase and another five pounds into a duffel bag. They were unarmed.

McCurry said when they arrived that Lewis was standing by his blue sedan - the same one he drove for Uber. He said he asked them to back up next to his vehicle and they did.

McCurry said after Lewis got into the back seat of Derry's black Tahoe, he told them he had forgotten something and started to leave. He said Lewis then turned back and began spraying them with pepper spray.

McCurry said he then saw three males wearing hoodies and carrying guns heading for their vehicle. He said he began running down the road. He said he went into a wooded area, then came out by a granite supply business. He said he went on to another wooded section and stayed there about two hours.

He said he eventually made his way to his father's house in Smyrna, Tn. He said he never called police.

McCurry said he saw on the news the next morning that his friend, Evan Derry, had been killed. He said he then got a call from his manager at The Feed telling him the police were looking for him. He then came back to town and gave a statement.

A resident of Bishop Drive said she was cooking supper when she heard three gunshots. She said it was just after her three children had left her apartment.

She said a neighbor hollered for her to "get down." She said she did get on one knee briefly, but she then rushed out to check on her kids. She said as she was going down her steps a black male dressed in all black except for white shoes went right past her. She said he was carrying two guns and was firing both of them.

She said she saw the man with the guns get into a vehicle at the top of the hill. She said another vehicle that she did not recognize went down the hill at high speed and then crashed. She said the vehicle with the gunman went up to the wrecked vehicle, and someone got out and checked inside it.

She said she went up to the SUV, but a police officer was already at the scene and ordered her back.

Investigator Daryl Slaughter said he was able to reach McCurry because he left his cell phone in the Tahoe. He said there were texts and calls on the phone between him and Lewis. He said Lewis left his can of mace in the Tahoe.

He said there was far less marijuana in the vehicle than McCurry said they had taken - about three pounds. He said there was $3,600 in cash.

The investigator said there were 11 small-caliber rim-fire shell casings and eight 9mm shell casings found at the scene, including at the apartment property and the roadway.

He said the victim was shot in the right side of the head.

Lewis was not located until about a week later. He was caught with his girlfriend letting her out for a new job. Lewis was on probation on an assault charge against the girlfriend and was not suppose to have contact with her, the judge was told.

Investigator Slaughter said Lewis stated that he had been unable to get out of the Tahoe because the child safety lock was on. He said he went down the hill and was still inside when it crashed. He said he climbed out the back window of the heavily-damaged vehicle.

The witness said Lewis would never tell him where he could find his vehicle.

He said the officer was on the scene of the shooting so quickly because a few minutes before it happened police got a call of a suspicious person behind a dumpster.
ROME (Reuters) - Two trucks collided on a motorway near Bologna airport in northern Italy on Monday, sending a huge ball of fire and billows of black smoke soaring into the sky. At least two people were killed and more than 60 were injured, according to local media. Police said they had closed off the road where the crash took place as well as the surrounding area in Borgo Panigale, on the outskirts of Bologna.

ROME (Reuters) - Two trucks collided on a motorway near Bologna airport in northern Italy on Monday, sending a huge ball of fire and billows of black smoke soaring into the sky.

At least two people were killed and more than 60 were injured, according to local media.

Police said they had closed off the road where the crash took place as well as the surrounding area in Borgo Panigale, on the outskirts of Bologna.

Italian media said a lorry carrying cars collided on a bridge with another tanker lorry containing inflammable materials.

Part of the bridge collapsed and the resulting explosion and fire spread to a carpark below the bridge, where several other vehicles caught fire and exploded.

Firefighters and ambulances headed to the scene.

A video shot from a parked car at the moment of the explosion appeared to show someone being engufled by flames when the tanker exploded.

In a separate incident on Monday, 12 migrant labourers died in the southern Italian region of Puglia when the van they were travelling in smashed into a lorry.

(Reporting By Gavin Jones; Editing by Richard Balmforth and Crispian Balmer)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
Four militants, who were covered by the Pakistan Army, were killed in the retaliatory firing by the Indian side, but the bodies of only two have been found so far.

Srinagar: The Pakistan Army fired on Indian Army posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir's Gurez sector on Monday night. The attack left four Indian Army soldiers, including a Major, dead. Two militants were also killed in the retaliatory firing and their bodies were found later, though initial reports said four militants had been gunned down.

Police officials said that unlike Kupwara and Uri, Gurez does not witness frequent infiltration bids as the mountain peaks in the region remain snow-covered even in summers. In Gurez, militants do not have long tracts of forest cover either to use as escape routes or to sneak inside Kashmir.

A defence spokesperson based in Srinagar, Colonel Rajesh Kalia, said the army had foiled an infiltration bid in the Gurez sector. The encounter took place between the Indian Army's 36 Rashtriya Rifles battalion and the militants, who are believed to have been covered by Pakistan Army troops.

While two militants were killed, four others managed to escape back to the Pakistani side, police officials said. A top police official said the firing was reported at four Indian Army posts  Panth, Govind, Losar 1 and Bakhtor  on Monday night.

"The Indian Army posts on which Pakistani troops opened fire are near the Razdan Pass. The entire region remains covered with snow (even in summer), and that has made the operation difficult. There is a gorge between the Panth and Govind posts. The militants were spotted in this area, and four army soldiers were killed in the exchange of fire," a senior police officer said, adding that the Indian Army's Losar 1 post was also targeted by the Pakistani side's Losar 2 post.

#ArmyCdrNC and all ranks salute the supreme sacrifice of our brave officer and soldiers & offer deepest condolences to the families @adgpi @PIB_India @SpokespersonMoD pic.twitter.com/f59yAOGmR0  NorthernComd.IA (@NorthernComd_IA) August 7, 2018

Superintendent of Police (Bandipora) Shiekh Zulfikar Azad said that police teams have been rushed to the area to assess the situation. He said the army has not handed over the militants' bodies yet. "Our police teams have been rushed to the spot to assess the situation and assist the army in the operation."

Besides the snow-capped mountains and the lack of a thick forest cover, the police explained that the fact that the Indian and Pakistani armies face each other in Gurez with less than a kilometre between them makes the sector even more dangerous for militants to try to sneak into Kashmir through this region.

Nevertheless, skirmishes have been reported between the Indian Army and militants in various areas of the Gurez sector, said a police official. In Kashmir, these encounters are mostly in the forward areas of Uri and Kupwara that militants frequently use to cross the border.

Unlike the constant cross-border firing Uri and Kupwara witness along the LoC, the Gurez sector remained largely calm after the Indian Army conducted surgical strikes on militant bunkers in Pakistan on September 29, 2016.

The firing, which began late on Monday, was on even on Tuesday evening. The site of the encounter is nearly 80 kilometres from Gurez town and is accessible mainly on horses.

"From Gurez till the Bakhtor region, there is a 30-kilometre stretch that takes a day and a half to cross to reach Losar," an official said. "The army spotted the bodies of the two militants killed during the search operation in the area. Here, the India and Pakistani armies face each other, and there is no fencing along the LoC."

Between 2003 and 2007, the Gurez sector witnessed heavy exchange of fire between the two sides, police officials said, but the cross-border firing gradually declined.

Over the years, a number of major infiltration bids have reported from Gurez. On 20 August, 2011, the Indian Army had killed 12 militants along the LoC. In July 2005, seven militants were killed in a gun battle that lasted three days. In July 2017, three militants were also killed as the army foiled their infiltration bid in the Gurez sector.
The Supreme Court agreed to an urgent hearing in the Hapur lynching case after NDTV aired videos from its investigation.

After an undercover investigation by NDTV , during which the accused in the Hapur lynching case purportedly admitted to the crime, the Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to urgently take up the case. The lawyers of one of the victims requested an urgent hearing after the news channel aired the sting operation. Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra has agreed to hear the petition on 13 August.

On 18 June, 45-year-old cattle trader Qasim Qureshi was lynched, and 65-year-old farmer Samayuddin was brutally beaten over rumours of cow slaughter in Hapur district's Bajhera Khurd village in Uttar Pradesh.

Several videos and photographs of the mob thrashing the two men had emerged on social media after the incident. Among them was a video that purportedly shows a mob beating up a man and forcing him to confess to having slaughtered a cow. The clip went viral on social media.

Samayuddin, who was brutally assaulted by the mob allegedly after a minor tiff with a man on a motorcycle, can be seen pleading with the attackers. The mob can be heard asking him to identify the others they thought had slaughtered a cow.

The police made four arrests after the Hapur lynching, naming a local resident, Yudhishthir Singh Sisodia, as the main accused. However, Sisodia was let off on bail days later.

In the footage aired by NDTV, Rakesh Sisodia, who is among the nine charged with murder, attempt to murder and rioting in the case, purportedly admits to the crime and does so proudly. "They were slaughtering cows, so I slaughtered them," Rakesh Sisodia tells a team from NDTV posing as researchers doing field work on Hindutva outfits. In a written statement to the court, he had earlier claimed to have no role in the attack and not being present at the spot at the time of the lynching.

Bragging about the incident unknowingly on camera, he said he was ready to carry out similar attacks again. "My army is ready. If anyone slaughters a cow, we will kill them and go to jail a thousand times," he said.

Sisodia also claimed that the attackers had police support. "The police are on our side because of the government," he said. "Otherwise, nothing would have happened if Azam Khan (a minister under the previous Samajwadi Party regime) was in power."

He also purportedly said that he had admitted to the lynching before jail authorities. "I wasn't scared to go to jail. I caught the attention of the jailer, who had asked me what my case was. I said my case fell under sections 302 and 307 (of the Indian Penal Code) for full and half murder. They slaughtered cows, I slaughtered them," he said on camera.
Special judge JK Pandya rejected the applications of Vanzara and Amin. The court last month concluded the hearing of arguments of the two accused retired police officers, the CBI and Ishrat Jahan's mother Shamima Kauser, who had challenged Vanzara's discharge plea.

Ahmedabad: A special CBI court in Ahmedabad in Gujarat on Tuesday rejected the discharge applications of former police officers DG Vanzara and NK Amin in the case of alleged fake encounter of Ishrat Jahan and three others.

Special judge JK Pandya rejected the applications of Vanzara and Amin. The court last month concluded the hearing of arguments of the two accused retired police officers, the CBI and Ishrat Jahan's mother Shamima Kauser, who had challenged Vanzara's discharge plea.

Vanzara, a former deputy inspector general of police in Gujarat, had sought discharge on the ground of parity with the state's former in-charge Director General of Police P P Pandey, who was discharged in the case in February this year for want of evidence against him.

Amin, who retired as the superintendent of police, sought his discharge on the ground that the encounter was genuine and that testimonies of witnesses produced by the Central Bureau of Investigation were not reliable.

Ishrat Jahan's mother sought to oppose the pleas of Amin and Vanzara, and told the court that her daughter was "murdered following a conspiracy between high-ranking police officers and others holding powerful and influential positions". She alleged that Vanzara played a "direct and key role" in the conspiracy behind the "staged encounter".

Ishrat Jahan, a 19-year-old woman from Mumbra area of Thane district near Mumbai, and three others - Javed Shaikh alias Pranesh Pillai, Amjadali Akbarali Rana and Zeeshan Johar - were killed by the police in an "encounter" on the outskirts of Ahmedabad on 15 June, 2004. At that time, the police had claimed that the four had terror links and plotted to kill then Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi.
Many residents of Jharkhand's Jamari have never left the village but this does not stop them from sending their children away to work in big cities

Ranchi: Many residents of Jharkhand's Jamari have never left the village but this does not stop them from sending their children away to work in big cities. A promise of a few thousand rupees is all it takes for the traffickers to lure children from the village in Godda's Sundar Pahadi area and its neighbouring areas.

Electricity has still not reached Jamari. They have no concept of hand pumps. The nearest school is around 1.5 kilometers away. Agriculture and cattle rearing is the most common source of income and very few villagers work as daily wage labourers. Alcoholism and lack of education remains a big problem. Most villagers seem to be unaware of the various government schemes.

Mansukh (name changed), is one of the many villagers of Godda district who lost their children to human traffickers. He keeps a card of a placement agency in his pocket at all times. The card belongs to Rohit Muni, one of the state's most wanted human traffickers. "This man took away my daughter. He said he'd send us money for the work that my daughter does. However, since my daughter left, neither did I get the money nor did I see her again," Mansukh said.

After Khunti, Gumla and Simdega, Godda district has recently emerged as a hub for human traffickers. The issue came to light after the rescue of a 15-year-old girl of Godda District from Faridabad, who was trafficked by a placement agent Surinder Malto around two years ago.

Surinder raped the survivor before employing her at a household in Delhi. In January, the survivor was taken to Faridabad to another agent, Mani Mishra, who took away all the money she earned while employed at the household in Delhi and brutally beat her up. When rescued on 30 January, the young girl belonging to Paharia tribe  a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG)  had to be admitted to hospital as she was suffering from tuberculosis, along with multiple injuries.

Since her rescue, around a dozen more girls from the district were saved over the last few months, of which at least half have been taken back home. Haryana police arrested Surinder Malto in February. Malto not only confessed to raping the 15-year-old survivor, but also confessed to trafficking around 30 more girls from Godda district.

Haryana police revealed that Surinder used "sold" these girls from Jharkhand to placement agent Mani Mishra for between Rs 15,000 and 20,000. Following Surinder's arrest, over a half dozen girls of Paharia tribe were rescued from Faridabad and Ambala in joint operations by Godda Police and Haryana Police.

Surinder also confessed to being in contact with wanted traffickers Rohit Muni and Prabha Muni. He also admitted to meeting Pannnalal Mahato, who was arrested by Khunti Police for trafficking thousands of girls from the area, and is out on bail. Godda superintendent of police Rajiv Ranjan Singh said, Three police station areas having high tribal population, including Rajabhitta, Sundar Pahari and Dwarijor, are the most affected from human trafficking.

A team from Shakti Vahini, a social organisation working against human trafficking, recently visited Rajabhitta and Sundar Pahari, only to discover a number of adolescent girls missing from the villages. Rishi Kant of Shakti Vahini said, Our team found that there were very few adolescent girls in these areas. Many families said their daughters were taken away by placement agents who promised them good money in return for domestic work done but the girls never returned.

Earlier, thousands of girls from Khunti, Gumla and Simdega districts were trafficked by agents. However, lately, traffickers have shifted base after police started a crackdown. Kant said, In the last few years, the district police of Khunti, Simdega and Gumla not only rescued girls but also arresting dozens of traffickers including kingpins like Pannalal Mahato.

He added, As a result, the traffickers started searching for new places and zeroed in on interior regions of Godda where they were able to find a number of vulnerable PVTG families who live in isolation and poverty, away from government facilities and schemes. Considering the seriousness of the matter, the district administration launched a door to door survey in the villages to identify families where children are missing.

District child protection officer (DCPO) Ritesh Kumar said, The anganwadi sevikas have been directed to visit every household in the areas they are working and conduct a survey on missing children. Once the survey is completed, we will submit a report to the district administration for further action.

Meanwhile, Godda superintendent of police Rajiv Ranjan Singh is working on strategies to curb human trafficking from the area. Singh was earlier posted in Simdega District where he'd worked extensively against human trafficking there. A database of traffickers is being created and a list of missing children is being prepared so that our team can work on arrests and rescues. Apart from this, awareness campaigns are being conducted by the police officers of the three concerned areas, Singh said.

However, the most effective and unique idea to curb human trafficking has come up in the form of police mitra. Singh came up with this concept to link the youth of the affected areas with ongoing projects of the district administration. In a pilot project, we identified 100 young boys and girls of Sundar Pahari area and linked them with the ongoing Swachh Bharat Mission. These youth have been divided in groups of 10 and are currently working towards toilet construction in the area, Singh added.

Poverty and a lack of jobs are major problems. The project aims to link the youth with government programmes so that they are able to earn a decent amount of money while staying in the village. Singh said, After completing the work under Swachh Bharat Mission, the youth will be linked to construction work in other government schemes like Indira Awas and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna. If the project is successful, we will implement it in other police station areas of the district as well.

He added, We are in constant consultation with the district administration so that in the coming days more people can be linked with the government schemes. The police mitras are also being informed about the organised crime of human trafficking and would function as whistle-blowers.

If they come across cases where youngsters are being lured away they will inform the police station about it. This way we will not just be able to save the vulnerable children but will also be able to identify the local agents who lure them away, Singh added.

The author is a member of The NewsCart, a Bengaluru-based media startup
Actor Rajinikanth reached Rajaji Hall to pay his last respects to DMK chief Karunanidhi. Rajinikanth, who arrived later on Tuesday, had failed to get past the massive crowd outside the residence and enter the residence. Rajinikanth reached Karunanidhis residence late on Tuesday night but had to return without seeing the Dravidian politics stalwart.

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DMK cadres are hopeful that their party president, even after being pushed to a critical health condition on Monday night, will bounce back to good health soon. The members of DMK gathered outside Kauvery Hospital in Alwarpet were neither extremely depressed nor happy, but they believe their leader would soon return home.

The supporters of Karunanidhi gathered outisde the Kauvery Hospital in Chennai and prayed for his speedy recovery.

Tamil Manila Congress leader GK Vasan in Chennai today said that Karunanidhi "has" to return home soon and wished the DMK chief speedy recovery.

Local channels report that Karunanidhi's health has been a cause of worry for the cadre and the DMK chief's family, including party working president MK Stalin, Alagiri and Kanimozhi are all at the hospital.

"Ezhundhu vaa thalaiva, ezhundhu vaa.. (Get up, come up and get up)" continues to echo in Alwarpet, where the Kauvery Hospital is located. Party workers and Karunanidhi's supporters are stationed outside the hospital since Monday night, Puthiya Thalaimurai TV reports.

Get up, come up, get up : Emotional slogans heard outside Chennai hospital

The Hindu reports Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy visited the DMK veteran at the hospital. After a brief visit, he left.

"We are sure that our Kalaignar will return home with all good health. During emergency in late 1970's he boldly. Like that, he'll also overcome this medical emergency and will serve for the people again. We are waiting to see him and we will leave this place only after he's discharged from the hospital," said Venkateswari, a DMK worker from Kolathur, Chennai.

Some hoaxes which were circulated on Monday night were that DMK's Duraimurugan have had an urgent meeting with Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also scheduled a visit to Chennai on Tuesday morning.

Monday night witnessed a row of rumours posted and forwarded by social media users on Karunanidhi's health. However, the party cadre stayed calm throughout the day on Tuesday, not reacting to various versions of the news floating around.

Thirumavalavan had also visited Kauvery Hospital last week and enquired about the health of former Chief Minister Karunanidhi.

Actor Arjun and politicians Kongu Eswaran and K Veeramani arrived at the Kauvery Hospital to inquire about DMK chief M Karunanidhi's health, reported The News Minute

In the view of adding more hopes to the party members at the hospital premises, a mammoth flex was hung from the top of TTK Road flyover. The flex read as Karunanidhi's first person account, 'Uyirinum melaana udan pirappe kalangathae nalamudan irukkiren.'

The DMK cadre was raising slogans 'Ezhundhuvaa thalaiva', but had their emotions under control. 'We are not going to believe any rumour this time. We trust the doctors and our Thalapathi. They will ensure that our Kalaignar's health is saved,' said Arumuga Nainar a cadre from Tirunelveli. Similarly, another cadre said, 'We expect a positive news today. No one can grab the life of our thalaivar Kalaignar.'

Police deployment outside the Kauvery Hospital was increased in view of the swelling number of supporters. The DMK cadre thronged the whole of Eldams Road junction at Alwarpet area and over 1200 armed reserve policemen were put on standby, The Indian Express reported. Local channels reported that two Deputy Commissioners and four Assistant Commanders have been put on duty.

DMK leader and Karunanidhi's son MK Stalin has left from the Kauvery Hospital in Chennai, according to local media reports.

According News18 Tamil Nadu, a meeting is underway in Chennai between chief minister E Palaniswami and DMK leader MK Stalin at the chief minister's residence.

DMK chief Karunanidhi is suffering from severe breathing problem and his health continues to remain at risk, New18 Tamil Nadu quoted sources at Kauvery Hospital as saying.

DMK leaders MK Stalin, Alagiri and Kanimozhi have returned to Kauvery hospital in Chennai after meeting chief minister E Palaniswami at his residence, The News Minute reported.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi met ailing DMK chief Karunanidhi at Kauvery Hospital over the weekend. Meanwhile, union Minister Nitin Gadkari paid him a visit on Monday and was received by his son and MK Stalin, daughter Kanimozhi and DMK leader Dayanidhi Maran.

Ever since the news came that DMK chief's health condition was deteriorating, DMK supporters have been gathering in large numbers outside the Kauvery Hospital in Chennai.

The panel of doctors treating DMK chief M Karunanidhi said that he remains 'very critical,' The Times of India reported. Karunanidhi has been receiving treatment in the intensive care unit of the hospital since 29 July. Earlier, the hospital had also said that the maintaining the functionality of Karunanidhi's vital organs remained a challenge for the doctors.

According to a local news channel, Puthiyathalaimurai TV, the administration has ensured heavy police force deployment around the Kauvery Hospital as M Karunanidhi's health remains on the edge. The news channel said that around 300 policemen are concentrated in Kauvery hospital premises to rule out any law and order problems. The DMK cadres have gathered outside the Chennai hospital in huge numbers to get an update on their leader's health.

According to a latest official communique, the Tamil Nadu Deputy General of Police has ordered all personnels across all cities and districts to report immediately to their respective Superintendent of Police. The Zonal IGPs have been advised to further deploy manpower as per the required security challenges that may arise in the state.

Tamil Nadu DGP orders all police personnel to report on duty, IGPs tasked to deploy manpower to ensure law and order situtaion

Sources have said that an oral instruction has been issued to all Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC), Chennai bus drivers to return to the depots and keep off the roads. Many multi-national firms and companies that run offices in Chennai have also asked their staff to return home early.

According to the latest bulletin released by Kauvery Hospital, the condition of DMK chief M Karunanidhi has further declined over the past few hours. The hospital said that despite maximum medical support, his vital organ functions continue to deteriorate.

The party cadres waiting outside the Kauvery Hospital for their leader's health update are inconsolable after the latest medical bulletin stated Karunanidhi's health has suffered a significant decline. According to News 18, some of the anxious DMK supporters have fainted outside the hospital premises, while several others turned emotional on hearing the news.

Hundreds of DMK supporters and party workers have gathered outside the hospital premise since Monday night, when the hospital said that M Karunanidhi's health was extremely critical.

The Chennai Police have disallowed general public from entering the Kauvery Hospital in view of the sensitive law and order situation, The Times of India reported. The administration has also announced that the hospital will not take in any fresh patients at the moment. It was not clear whether the family members of other patients undergoing treatment could access the hospital at the moment or not.

M Karunanidhi's daughter and DMK leader Kanimozhi teared up as she arrived at Kauvery Hospital. Her sister Selvi and MK Stalin's wife Durga also turned emotional as they left the hospital to proceed to Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence.

News18 has reported that West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee will land in Chennai at around 9:30 pm to meet DMK chief M Karunanidhi and his family.

The security outside Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence has been ramped up. DMK chief's family members and close associates have started gathering at the Gopalapuram home. MK Stalin's wife Durga, Karunanidhi's daughter Selvi, and his long-time associate and personal secretary Shanmuganathan have arrived here.

The TASMAC shops in Krishnagiri have already downed their shutters as the government-run liquor outlet company had ordered that all shops should shut down by 6 pm today. The order was issued, keeping in view the law and order situation as DMK chief M Karunanidhi's health deteriorated.

The police deployment has been increased at Kauvery Hospital as the crowd outside the hospital continues to increase. The DMK supporters, many of whom have been stationed outside the hospital since last night, are chanting "Get up and come Anna's brother", and have been praying for their leader's health. Many of the people their say that they have wouldn't go back till they see Karunanidhi.

All cinema halls and multiplexes in Tamil Nadu will be shut for the next two days. A Tamil movie Pyaar Prema Kaadhal was set to release on Thursday, however, the production house has said that the release is postponed in view of the declining health of the popular Tamil Nadu leader. It will likely hit screens on Friday.

The state police has been kept on high alert and all security personnel across the state have been called in for immediate mobilisation. The state's fire and rescue officials have also been asked to stay alert.

Tamil Nadu on high alert; all security personnel across state called in for immediate mobilisation

Actor and chief of Makkal Needhi Maiam, Kamal Hassan, has reportedly canceled all his appointments for Wednesday in New Delhi and is rushing back to Chennai tonight.

DMK patriarch and senior leader M Karunanidhi passed away at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital at 6.10 pm on Tuesday. The former Tamil Nadu chief minister was 94-years-old.

All roads leading to Kalaignar M Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence have been cordoned off by police and Rapid Action Force personnel. The security forces are not allowing any vehicles to pass without ID checks and the entry to the family residence is being restricted to VIPs and the residents of the area.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to express his condolences to M Karunanidhi's family. "Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," Modi tweeted.

"Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers," President Ram Nath Kovind tweeted.

DMK Patriarch's body will be taken to his daughter Kanimozhi's home at CIT colony first. His mortal remains will then be shifted to the family's Gopalapuram home and finally to Rajaji Hall where the public will be allowed to pay their final respects.

The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation has shut down all bus services to Tamil Nadu temporarily after the news of M Karunanidhi's death was released.

Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami condoled M Karunanidhi's death and said that Kalaignar's immense contribution, not only to Tamil and national politics but also to Tamil literature and cinema, is unparalleled.

Actor and politician Rajinikanth took to Twitter to condole DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi's death. He said: "Today is a black day in my life, one which I can never forget as I lost my #Kalaignar. I pray for his soul."

Preparations are underway Chennai's Rajaji Hall, where Karunanidhi's body will be kept tomorrow for public viewing. The body will be first taken to Kanimozhi's CIT colony home, and later will be shifted to family's Gopalapuram residence. Tomorrow, the body will be moved to Rajaji Hall for people to pay their last respects.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will reach Chennai on Wednesday to pay his last respects to DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi condoled the death of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi. He said that India has lost a great sons in Kalaignar, who ruled Tamil Nadu political stage for six decades.

Senior DMK members and Karunanidhi's close associates and friends have gathered at the family's Gopalapuram residence to pay their last respects to DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi.

A route map of Rajaji Hall indicates all the entry points for VVIPs, VIPs and the general public. The general public will only be allowed to enter the hall through the Anna Salai Periyar statue hospital gate and Swamy Sivanandha Salai.

DMK's working president MK Stalin has released a statement on his father's death expressing his sorrow. He also urged the DMK supporters to maintain their calm and support the state agencies to maintain law and order situation.

The Tamil Nadu chief secretary Girija Vaidyanathan has released a statement announcing that no place has been allocated for the burial of Karunanidhi's body at Marina beach. The party had petitioned for space to be granted near Anna Memorial but hadn't received any response to it until today. She has said two other places have been allocated for his memorial.

The DMK workers mourned the death of their party patriarch at the party's office in Coimbatore. At party's Chennai headquarters, the DMK 's crimson flag featuring a rising sun was lowered to half mast as a mark of respect. Outside Chennai's Kauvery Hospital, the Kalaignar's supporters lit candles to mourn their loss.

DMK supporters sit in protest at Ranipet against the Tamil Nadu government's decision to not allow Karunanidhi's body to be buried at Marina beach. The government has cited legal restrictions in granting the permission and has instead offered two acres of space near Guindy. AIADMK leaders MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa, and DMK founder Annadurai's memorials are built at Marina Beach.

The Tamil Nadu government's decision to not allow Karunanidhi's burial at Marina Beach has become the latest flashpoint. DMK members protested at Ranipet and outside the Kauvery Hospital demanding a memorial to DMK founder Annadurai's memorial at city's Marina Beach.

The Chennai police resorted to lathi-charge after DMK cadres started protesting against the denial of burial space for Karunanidhi at Marina Beach. The emotionally charged cadres turned violent and the police used some force to disperse the huge crowd that had gathered outside the hospital.

Acting Chief Justice of Madras High Court, Huluvadi G Ramesh has agreed to hear the plea on an urgent basis at 10:30 pm.

After Tamil Nadu government announced that it could not allocate space for Karunanidhi's burial at Marina Beach, the DMK moved Madras High Court to seeking space for his memorial next to DMK founder Annadurai's resting place.

Ambulance carrying Karunanidhi's mortal remains left from Kauvery Hospital and his enroute his Gopalapuram residence. A huge crowd of party supporters has gathered on sidewalks of the road leading to Karunanidhi's home. An emotional party worker yelled "Come back, Kalaignar", as M Karunanidhi's body makes its way from the hospital to his home for the last time.

Puducherry government has declared a holiday tomorrow and has announced a three-day mourning following the demise of DMK chief M Karunanidhi.

The Chennai Airport has issued a statement stating that as per security notice issued by state police, there are traffic restrictions in Chennai. The statement advised passengers who fly in and out of Chennai Airport to plan their mode of travel to avoid delays and inconvenience.

DMK supporters have gathered to pay their respects at the house where Karunanidhi was born, in Nagapattinam's Thirukuvalai.

Earlier, Home Minister Rajnath Singh had tweeted to express his condolence on the demise of DMK patriarch's death. "Kalaignar Karunanidhi was a seasoned leader who dedicated himself in service to the poor and needy. He was a powerful voice of the marginalised section of our society. India mourns his demise," he had said.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has said that the National Flag will fly at half-mast tomorrow in New Delhi, all state capitals and across Tamil Nadu as a mark of respect to M Karunanidhi.

National Flag to fly at half-mast tomorrow in Delhi, all state capitals and across Tamil Nadu

Hundreds of DMK cadre gathered outside the hospital as news of his death spread, and many of them could be heard chanting,"We want Marina," T he News Minute reported. The emotional supporters said that they will not accept any other place for Karunanidhi's burial, as Anna's brother (referring to DMK founder CN Annadurai) must lie next to him at Marina Beach.

The DMK supporters, who just lost their tallest leader, are up in arms against the AIADMK-led state government over getting space for Karunanidhi's burial at Marina Beach.

'Anna's brother should rest beside him': Kalaignar's supporters demand space for his burial at Marina Beach

Veteran Dravidian leader and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi will be accorded a state funeral, which will take place tomorrow in Chennai. The Government of India will observe state mourning across the country tomorrow and there will be no official entertainment during the day, a Home Ministry spokesperson said.

Later, at 3 am, the body will be moved to Chennai's Rajaji Hall and the venue will be open for the public from 4 am onwards.

The body will be kept at the Gopalapuram home until 1 am after which it will be moved to Kanimozhi's CIT Colony residence. Only close friends and family will be allowed to pay their respects during this time.

The ambulance carrying Karunanidhi's body took over one hour to reach his Gopalapuram residence as the vehicle was surrounded by an overwhelming crowd.

The DMK chief's body has arrived at his Gopalapuram residence in Chennai. However, people swarmed around the Ambulance to catch a glimpse of their leader. The police had to resort to a mild lathi-charge to disperse the crowd and make way for the body to be taken inside.

Earlier, Congress' GHulam Nabi Azad had also spoken in support of the DMK's demand. "The Tamil Nadu government should not play politics. On such occasions, the government and parties should rise above politics. Kalaignar should be given his due. He deserves rightful place even after his demise," Azad said.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi and actor and politician, Rajinikanth have come out in support of the DMK in seeking a burial space for Karunanidhi at Marina Beach. The Tamil Nadu government had denied the space citing legal restrictions and had instead offered 2 acres land in Guindi.

Tamil Nadu chief minister E Palaniswami is holding a meeting with state's advocate general at his residence, News18 reported Meanwhile, the DMK's legal team has already arrived at Chief Justice's residence in Chennai. A late-night legal drama is expected to unfold as the state government has denied space for Karunanidhi's burial at Marina Beach, a move which was challenged by the DMK.

A two-judge bench, comprising of Acting Chief Justice of Madras High Court Huluvadi G Ramesh and Justice SS Sundar, will hear the DMK's urgent petition demanding a burial spot for M Karunanidhi at Marina Beach shortly, News18 reported.

Advocate S Duraisamy, who had filed a PIL against the construction of a memorial for J Jayalalithaa at Marina, has withdrawn the petition. He said, "My petition had nothing to do with the issue of space for Karunanidhi. But since the government was using my petition as an excuse to deny space, I have decided to withdraw the petition."

Withdrew petition against Jaya memorial on Marina Beach as TN govt was playing politics on it, says M Duraisamy

The poem was captioned 'Just this once, can I call you 'father', my leader'.

"Wherever you had travelled in the past, you've always left after letting us know. This time why did you leave us without a notice? Where did you go, our leader? The one who is blended with my emotions, blood, thoughts, hearts and body.." Stalin wrote in an emotive poem that he shared on his Twitter page.

'Just this once, can I call you 'father', my leader': MK Stalin pens emotional poem for Karunanidhi

Speaking to the press at Chennai airport, Mamata Banerjee said that Karunanidhi's death is a great loss to the nation. Expressing her condolences to his family, DMK members, and the Tamil people, she said that she had been on her way to Chennai to check on his health and the news of his death was a shock to her.

US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster, in a tweet, said, "Karunanidhi will be remembered for years of public service to the state." "On behalf of the United States Mission in India, I wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of former Chief Minister Karunanidhi and the people of Tamil Nadu," he said.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena mourned the death of Karunanidhi. "I am deeply saddened by the death of former Chief Minister and senior political leader Karunanidhi," he said in a tweet, extending his condolences to the bereaved family and party cadres.

Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Hassan addressed reporters at the Chennai airport. He says, "Kalaignar's death is sad for me as an artist and also as a new politician. Shall we be optimistic that they would let 'thambi' (brother) rest near Anna? It's an emotional issue. It's a tradition and there's nothing wrong in people demanding a place for their leader at Marina. I am sure there be a fair decision on this."

Should thambi be allowed to rest near Anna... we should be hopeful, says Kamal Haasan

Late DMK chief Karunanidhi's body was shifted out of his Gopalapuram residence to the CIT colony home. According to reports, Karunanidhi's body will soon be taken to Rajaji Hall.

Mourners thronged MP Kanimozhi's residence in CIT Colony where Kalaignar's body is bring brought to next. The motorcade has reportedly already left Gopalapuram.

Tamil Nadu government lawyers had initially asked for time until 10.30 am on Wednesday to prepare for the case. The Acting Chief Justice declined the request. The court will be reconvened at 8 am at the judge's residence and the hearing will resume then. The judgment will be delivered immediately after the hearing at around 8.30 am.

As M Karunanidhi breathed his last on Monday evening, a number of politicians, including Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Rajinikanth, dropped by at the Gopalapuram residence of the DMK patriarch to pay their respects. While Banerjee managed to meet Stalin and others while paying her tributes to the Kalaignar, Rajinikanth, who arrived later, failed to get past the massive crowd outside the residence and enter the residence. Rajinikanth reached Karunanidhis residence late on Tuesday night but had to return without seeing the Dravidian politics stalwart.

Chennai Police had to resort to lathicharge to disperse the crowd gathered outside DMK MP Kanimozhi's home in CIT Colony where Karunanidhi's mortal remains are kept.

Starting from Congress chief Rahul Gandhi to actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, leaders came out in support of DMK's demand to bury their Kalaignar at Marina beach. "Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief," Rahul tweeted.

"When Anna was alive, it was Kalaignar and MGR as two brothers who worked hard to strengthen the party. It is only just that all three are allowed to rest nearby. It is sad, that people who came into the party after MGR do not possess that noble quality. Had MGR been alive and Kalaignar had passed away, MGR would have made Kalaignar to rest next to Anna," tweets Kamal Haasan.

It is sad, that people who came into the party after MGR do not possess that noble quality: Kamal Haasan on Karunanidhi's burial at Marina beach

Within minutes of Karunanidhi's death, a huge row erupted after the state's AIADMK government rejected the demand of the DMK, its long-standing political rival in state politics, for land on the famed sands of the Marina beach where he could be buried. The Madras High Court will decide at 8 am whether the DMK chief be laid to rest along with other political stalwarts like Annadurai and MGR.

It is 5 am and mourners and supporters continue to pay homage to DMK chief Karunanidhi who died of multiple organ failure at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai on Tuesday at 6.10 pm.

Firstpost editorial says, "MGR was the first actor to really become a mass hero, primarily through the scripts written by Karunanidhi. He was always projected as a virtuous do-gooder who stands with the downtrodden, loves his mother, has family values and upholds women's rights. MGR never endorsed alcohol in any of his films, which created an aura around him. This got DMK the all-important vote bank of women. The image of a Tamil mass hero has changed with times, but the MGR formula still rules, as seen by the success of Rajinikanth and later of Vijay and Ajith."

As thousands await Karunanidhi's mortal remains at Rajaji Hall in Chennai, reports said that DMK chief's son Alagiri and DMK leader A Raja, accused in the 2G scam who recently got acquitted, have reached Rajaji Hall.

Both Modi and Rahul, besides a host of other leaders are expected to arrive in Chennai today to pay their last respects to the departed doyen of Tamil Nadu politics.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," he said on Twitter.

"Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," Modi said in a series of tweets.

#WATCH : Police resort to lathi-charge to control the crowd gathered outside Kanimozhi's residence in Chennai's CIT Colony where mortal remains of former Tamil Nadu CM M #Karunanidhi are kept. pic.twitter.com/2NMsugk6tU

Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief. #Marina4Kalaignar

Starting from Congress chief Rahul Gandhi to actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan, leaders came out in support of DMK's demand to bury their Kalaignar at Marina beach. "Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief," Rahul tweeted.

"When Anna was alive, it was Kalaignar and MGR as two brothers who worked hard to strengthen the party. It is only just that all three are allowed to rest nearby. It is sad, that people who came into the party after MGR do not possess that noble quality. Had MGR been alive and Kalaignar had passed away, MGR would have made Kalaignar to rest next to Anna," tweets Kamal Haasan.

It is sad, that people who came into the party after MGR do not possess that noble quality: Kamal Haasan on Karunanidhi's burial at Marina beach

Within minutes of Karunanidhi's death, a huge row erupted after the state's AIADMK government rejected the demand of the DMK, its long-standing political rival in state politics, for land on the famed sands of the Marina beach where he could be buried. The Madras High Court will decide at 8 am whether the DMK chief be laid to rest along with other political stalwarts like Annadurai and MGR.

It is 5 am and mourners and supporters continue to pay homage to DMK chief Karunanidhi who died of multiple organ failure at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai on Tuesday at 6.10 pm.

Firstpost editorial says, "MGR was the first actor to really become a mass hero, primarily through the scripts written by Karunanidhi. He was always projected as a virtuous do-gooder who stands with the downtrodden, loves his mother, has family values and upholds women's rights. MGR never endorsed alcohol in any of his films, which created an aura around him. This got DMK the all-important vote bank of women. The image of a Tamil mass hero has changed with times, but the MGR formula still rules, as seen by the success of Rajinikanth and later of Vijay and Ajith."

Chennai: #Karunanidhi 's son MK Alagiri and DMK leader Andimuthu Raja arrive at Rajaji Hall in Chennai where mortal remains of the late Tamil Nadu CM are being brought pic.twitter.com/QwCQTci7uT

As thousands await Karunanidhi's mortal remains at Rajaji Hall in Chennai, reports said that DMK chief's son Alagiri and DMK leader A Raja, accused in the 2G scam who recently got acquitted, have reached Rajaji Hall.

TTV Dhinakaran arrives at Chennai's Rajaji Hall where mortal remains of former Tamil Nadu CM M #Karunanidhi are kept. pic.twitter.com/CtQ0vPPpVu

#Visuals from Chennai's Rajaji Hall where mortal remains of former Tamil Nadu CM M #Karunanidhi are kept. pic.twitter.com/dXoA1L0BTN

Thousands flock to Rajaji Hall to see Karunanidhi on his last journey

Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight. #Karunanidhi

I have had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi Ji on several occasions. His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered. pic.twitter.com/cbMiMPRy7l

Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised. pic.twitter.com/jOZ3BOIZMj

Both Modi and Rahul, besides a host of other leaders are expected to arrive in Chennai today to pay their last respects to the departed doyen of Tamil Nadu politics.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," he said on Twitter.

"Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," Modi said in a series of tweets.

Karunanidhi death; LATEST updates: Actor Rajinikanth reached Rajaji Hall to pay his last respects to DMK chief Karunanidhi. Rajinikanth, who arrived later on Tuesday, had failed to get past the massive crowd outside the residence and enter the residence. Rajinikanth reached Karunanidhis residence late on Tuesday night but had to return without seeing the Dravidian politics stalwart.

Reports said that the mortal remains of Karunanidhi has left the CIT Colony home for Rajaji Hall where thousands await their leader's last journey. DMK supporters who are present in hordes at Rajaji Hall said that they were confident that the Madras High Court will allow them to bury their Kalaignar at the Marina Beach in Chennai.

Karunanidhi's son MK Alagiri, DMK leader A Raja and TTV Dhinakaran arrived at Rajaji Hall, reports said.

Within minutes of Karunanidhi's death, a huge row erupted after the state's AIADMK government rejected the demand of the DMK, its long-standing political rival in state politics, for land on the famed sands of the Marina beach where he could be buried. The Madras High Court will decide at 8 am whether the DMK chief be laid to rest along with other political stalwarts like Annadurai and MGR.

As the clamour to give DMK chief M Karunanidhi a burial at the Marina grew, Makkal Needhi Maiam president Kamal Haasan tweeted in support of Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina beach and said, "When Anna was alive, it was Kalaignar and MGR as two brothers who worked hard to strengthen the party. It is only just that all three are allowed to rest nearby. It is sad, that people who came into the party after MGR do not possess that noble quality. Had MGR been alive and Kalaignar had passed away, MGR would have made Kalaignar to rest next to Anna."

Leading politicians have supported the DMK claim. "AIADMK is playing petty politics," DMK supporters told reporters outside the CIT Colony home of the late DMK supremo.

Within minutes of Karunanidhi's death, a huge row erupted after the state's AIADMK government rejected the demand of the DMK, its long-standing political rival in state politics, for land on the famed sands of the Marina beach where he could be buried.

Wasting no time, DMK's counsel P Wilson and A Sarvanan rushed to the residence of H G Ramesh, the Acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, with a plea to direct the state government to revoke its decision denying permission for Karunanidhi's burial and erection of a memorial to him on the beach.

Meanwhile, Chennai Police had to resort to lathicharge to disperse the crowd gathered outside DMP MP Kanimozhi's home in CIT Colony where Karunanidhi's mortal remains are kept. A large number of people were waiting outside the house, and was uncontrollable as leaders including Stalin arrived.

Hours after former Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK chief Karunanidhi passed away at a Chennai hospital on Tuesday, a huge controversy erupted over Kalaignar's final resting place. Angry DMK supporters took to streets on Tuesday amid heavy drama and slammed the AIADMK government for refusing to give "6-feet of land" for Karunanidhi. "The TamilNadu government proposes to build a 3,500 sq-ft memorial for Jayalalithaa, but refuses to give 6-feet of land to our leader," reports quoted supporters as saying.

The Tamil Nadu government rejected the request that was made by Karunanidhis political heir MK Stalin - to grant him a burial and a memorial on the Marina beach - creating a furore among DMK supporters and setting the stage for a courtroom battle.

The DMK moved the Madras High Court against the government's decision on Tuesday night and Acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G Ramesh held a special hearing at midnight in his residence.

According to latest reports, body of DMK chief Karunanidhi has been moved out of the Gopalapuram residence to his CIT colony home, which also happens to be his daughter and DMK MP Kanimozhi's home.

A sea of DMK supporters that had thronged outside Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence in Chennai broke open the gates and entered the premise to pay their last respects. Except for a minor scuffle, the situation was calm and the crowd was peaceful.

"Wherever you had travelled in the past, you've always left after letting us know. This time why did you leave us without a notice? Where did you go, our leader? The one who is blended with my emotions, blood, thoughts, hearts and body.." Stalin wrote in an emotional poem that he shared on his Twitter page.

The controversy over the burial site for DMK chief Karunanidhi has reached the Madras High Court. A two-judge bench has started hearing the case at the acting chief justice's residence in Chennai. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has reached Karunanidhi's residence in Gopalapuram.

Tamil Nadu chief minister E Palaniswami is holding a meeting with state's advocate general at his residence. Meanwhile, the DMK's legal team has already arrived at Chief Justice's residence in Chennai. A late-night legal drama is expected to unfold as the state government has denied space for Karunanidhi's burial at Marina Beach, a move which was challenged by the DMK.

The DMK chief's body has arrived at his Gopalapuram residence in Chennai. However, people swarmed around the Ambulance to catch a glimpse of their leader. The police had to resort to a mild lathi-charge to disperse the crowd and make way for the body to be taken inside.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Rajinikanth have come out in support of the DMK in seeking a burial space for Karunanidhi at Marina Beach. The Tamil Nadu government had denied the space citing legal restrictions and had instead offered 2 acres land in Guindi.

Acting Chief Justice of Madras High Court, Huluvadi G Ramesh has agreed to hear a plea seeking space for Karunanidhi's memorial at Marina beach on an urgent basis at 10:30 pm.

The ambulance carrying body of DMK patriarch Karunanidhi has left from Kauvery Hospital for his residence in Gopalapuram. The body will be kept there till 1 am when only family and close friends will be allowed to pay respects.

After Tamil Nadu government announced that it could not allocate space for Karunanidhi's burial at Marina Beach, the veteran leader's party has announced that it will move Madras High Court on Wednesday to seek space for his memorial.

DMK supporters sit in protest at Ranipet against the Tamil Nadu government's decision to not allow Karunanidhi's body to be buried at Marina beach. The government has cited legal restrictions in granting the permission and has instead offered two acres of space near Guindy. AIADMK leaders MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa, and DMK founder Annadurai's memorials are built at Marina Beach.

DMK's working president MK Stalin has released a statement on his father's death expressing his sorrow. He also urged the DMK supporters to maintain their calm and support the state agencies to maintain law and order situation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will reach Chennai on Wednesday to pay his last respects to DMK patriarch Karunanidhi.

Karunanidhi's body will be taken to his daughter Kanimozhi's home at Chennai's CIT colony first. His mortal remains will then be shifted to the family's Gopalapuram home and finally to Rajaji Hall where the public will be allowed to pay their final respects.

The state police has been kept on high alert and all security personnel across the state have been called in for immediate mobilisation. The state's fire and rescue officials have also been asked to stay alert.

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee is expected to arrive in Chennai at around 9.30 pm tonight as the health of DMK chief M Karunanidhi continues to decline. She will meet the family members at their Gopalapuram residence.

Karunanidhi's daughter and DMK leader Kanimozhi teared up as she arrived at Kauvery Hospital. Her sister Selvi and MK Stalin's wife Durga also turned emotional as they left the hospital to proceed to Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence.

The Tamil Nadu police is on high alert and police personnel across the state have been ordered to report on duty. The administration has also ordered the TASMAC shops to down shutters by 6pm and several offices are also sending their employees home early.

According to Kauvery Hospital's latest bulletin, M Karunanidhi's health has declined considerably in the last few hours. The hospital said that it was difficult to maintain the functionality DMK chief's vital organs.

The Tamil Nadu Deputy General of Police has ordered all personnel across all cities and districts to report immediately to their respective Superintendent of Police. The Zonal IGPs have been advised to further deploy manpower as per the required security challenges that may arise in the state.

The Kauvery Hospital is expected to release the latest bulletin on DMK chief's health in the next 30 minutes as a sea of DMK cadres wait expectantly outside the hospital premises. The security has also been ramped up, with over 300 police personnel deployed at the institute.

DMK chief M Karunanidhi's health remains very critical, reports said. Meanwhile, the secuirty has been ramped up inside and around the Kauvery hospital.

DMK leaders MK Stalin, Alagiri and Kanimozhi have returned to Kauvery hospital in Chennai after meeting chief minister E Palaniswami at his residence, The News Minute reported.

DMK chief Karunanidhi is suffering from severe breathing problem and his health continues to remain at risk, New18 Tamil Nadu quoted sources at Kauvery Hospital as saying. Meanwhile, a meeting is underway in Chennai between chief minister E Palaniswami and DMK leader MK Stalin. Earlier, Karunanidhi's son Stalin had left from the Kauvery Hospital in Chennai.

Actor Arjun and politicians Kongu Eswaran and K Veeramani arrived at the Kauvery Hospital to inquire about DMK chief M Karunanidhi's health, reported The News Minute. VCK Chief Thol Thirumavalavan has arrived at Kauvery Hospital. He had also visited Kauvery Hospital last week and enquired about the health of former Chief Minister Karunanidhi. Meanwhile, internet services have been suspended outside the hospital premises.

DMK chief M Karunanidhi is in critical condition, the doctors have said. The situation outside the Kauvery Hospital in the Alwarpet area is a bit tense as there are rumours floating and the doctors haven't said anything since Monday night. Party working president Stalin and DMK MP Kanimozhi arrived at the hospital amid heavy security. Reports said that internet access outside the hospital has been restricted.

Reports from Chennai have said that doctors at the Kauvery Hospital have not released any statement on Karunanidhi's health since Monday night. "There has been a decline in the medical condition of DMK president and former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. Maintaining his vital organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age related ailments," hospital statement on Monday night had said.

DMK cadres are hopeful that their party president MK Karunanidhi, even after being pushed to a critical health condition on Monday night, will bounce back to good health soon. The members of DMK gathered outside Kauvery Hospital in Alwarpet were neither extremely depressed nor happy, but they believe their leader would soon return home.

The condition of ailing DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi has "declined" and keeping his vital organs functioning remains a "challenge", doctors at the Kauvery Hospital said, indicating that the next 24 hours could be crucial.

The 94-year-old five-time Tamil Nadu chief minister was being continuously monitored and treated with active medical support, a press release issued by the hospital said.

"His response to the medical interventions over the next 24 hours will determine the prognosis," Executive Director of the Hospital Dr Aravindan Selvaraj said in the terse two-paragraph release.

Soon after the news of a decline in Karunanidhi's condition spread, hundreds of his supporters gathered outside the hospital, including a large number of women, some failing to control their tears, others waving at the TV cameras, preparing for an overnight vigil at the facility in downtown Alwarpet.

Karunanidhi was admitted to the intensive care unit of the hospital on July 28 following a dip in blood pressure, which stabilised following medical intervention.

The hospital had, however, said on July 31 that an extended stay could be necessary due to age-related overall decline in his general health, altered liver function and haematological parameters.

A host of dignitaries and political leaders, including President Ram Nath Kovind Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi have visited the hospital over the last few days to inquire about the condition of the DMK veteran.
DMK chief M Karunanidhi, a colossus in Tamil Nadu politics, poet, columnist and script writer, who left an indelible imprint on the state's public life for over five decades, died today, setting the stage for a late night courtroom drama over where he shall be buried.

Chennai: DMK chief M Karunanidhi, a colossus in Tamil Nadu politics, poet, columnist and script writer, who left an indelible imprint on the state's public life for over five decades, died today, setting the stage for a late night courtroom drama over where he shall be buried.

The 94-year-old leader breathed his last at the Kauvery Hospital in downtown Chennai at 6.10 pm after waging a grim battle for life for 11 days, the hospital said. He had not made any public appearance for about two years due to failing health.

Within minutes of Karunanidhi's death, a huge row erupted after the state's AIADMK government rejected the demand of the DMK, its long-standing political rival in state politics, for land on the famed sands of the Marina beach where he could be buried.

Wasting no time, DMK's counsel P Wilson and A Sarvanan rushed to the residence of H G Ramesh, the Acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, with a plea to direct the state government to revoke its decision denying permission for Karunanidhi's burial and erection of a memorial to him on the beach.

Their plea was granted and Justice Ramesh and his fellow judge S S Sundar began hearing the petition minutes before midnight. The judges heard the arguments by counsel for the DMK and the state government before adjourning the matter around 1.15 am for resumed hearing at 8 in the morning.

The DMK counsel wanted to know the legal ground on which its demand was rejected following which the advocates for the government pleaded for time till morning to file a counter affidavit which the court allowed.

In a twist to the late night proceedings, unprecedented in Tamil Nadu's legal history, two of the petitioners who had moved the court against late chief minister J Jayalalithaa's burial at the Marina and construction of a memorial there, withdrew their applications.

One of them, advocate S Duraisamy, said the claim of the government that the memorial to Karunanidhi's mentor and former chief minister C N Annadurai facing the Marina beach, where the DMK sought land for its leader's burial, was in an ecologically sensitive zone, was "misleading".

He told reporters outside the Acting Chief Justice's residence that it was on the banks of the Cooum river close to the beach but not in the eco-sensitive zone like the memorials of Jayalalithaa and former AIADMK chief minister the late M G Ramachandran.

Similarly, K Balu of PMK also withdrew his petition seeking the court's direction against use of the Marina as a burial ground.

Earlier in the day, another PIL filed in the Madras High Court seeking to restrain the Corporation of Greater Chennai from permitting any burial of bodies on the Marina beach was dismissed as withdrawn.

Hours before the unsavoury courtroom saga unfolded, Karunanidhi was declared dead by the hospital where he was undergoing treatment since his admission on July 28 when his blood pressure had dipped.

"With deep anguish we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 6.10 pm. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond.

"We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family members and fellow Tamilians worldwide," a press release by Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, Executive Director of Kauvery Hospital, said.

President Ramnath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned Karunanidhi's death.

"Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers," Kovind tweeted.

Modi said Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. "Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," Modi said in a series of tweets.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi also took to Twitter to condole Karunanidhi's death.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," he said on Twitter.

Both Modi and Gandhi, besides a host of other leaders are expected to arrive here tomorrow to pay their last respects to the departed doyen of Tamil Nadu politics.

Soon after Karunanidhi's death, his son and DMK working president M K Stalin despatched his emissary and the party's deputy leader in the state assembly Duraimurugan to Chief Minister K Palaniswamy requesting him to allot land in the mausoleum complex of Annadurai.

Soon afterwards, the government issued a statement saying it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications."

Hence, the government is prepared to allot a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

Some reports said the government was reluctant about allotting space for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina as he was not a sitting chief minister.

Former chief minister M G Ramachandran and his protegee J Jayalalitha were buried at the Marina beach and memorials to them were erected there. Both were bitter foes of Karunanidhi in politics.

Follow LIVE updates on Karunanidhi's funeral here
For Karunanidhi's memorial, DMK workers are demanding space at the Marina Beach, but the Tamil Nadu government said he can be buried at Gandhi Mandapam in Chennai.

Even as the Tamil Nadu government announced a seven-day mourning period after the death of former chief minister and DMK chief M Karunanidhi on Tuesday, party workers began a violent protest outside Kauvery Hospital in Chennai, where the patriarch was being treated, after the state government rejected DMK's plea for land at the Marina Beach for Karunanidhi's memorial.

According to 101Reporters, police resorted to lathicharge outside the hospital to disperse the crowd.

DMK had sought Karunanidhi's burial next to the Anna memorial at Marina Beach in Chennai. However, Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary Girija Vaidhyanathan released a statement saying Karunanidhi would not be buried at Marina Beach, and that DMK had permission to bury him in a two-acre plot at Gandhi Mandapam.

"Don't provoke us. We want space at Marina Beach," 101Reporters quoted DMK supporters as chanting outside Kauvery Hospital.

With the threat of violent protests, security was tightened around the chief minister's residence as well as at the hospital.

DMK has also filed a petition at the Madras High Court on the matter, and the court has agreed to an urgent hearing at 10.30 pm.

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad reacted to the protests and said, "The Tamil Nadu government should not play politics. On such occasions, the government and parties should rise above politics. Kalaignar (as Karunanidhi was (popularly known) should be given his due. He deserves a rightful place after his demise."

Karunanidhi, one of the foremost Dravidian politicians in modern times, died in Chennai on Tuesday, after battling for life in the hospital for the past 11 days. The most enduring mascot of the Dravidian movement breathed his last at 6.10 pm.

One of the most charismatic figures of Tamil Nadu politics, whose public life spanned over seven decades, he is survived by two wives and six children, including DMK working president and heir apparent MK Stalin and daughter Kanimozhi, a Rajya Sabha MP.

With inputs from PTI

Click here to follow news updates on Karunanidhi's demise
A massive controversy erupted on Tuesday after the Tamil Nadu government rejected Opposition DMK's demand for allotting space on the Marina beach for the burial of its leader M Karunanidhi and offered space near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamaraj.

Chennai: A massive controversy erupted on Tuesday after the Tamil Nadu government rejected Opposition DMK's demand for allotting space on the Marina beach for the burial of its leader M Karunanidhi and offered space near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamaraj.

Opposition leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Sitaram Yechury and D Raja, besides actor Rajinikanth, backed the DMK's demand and urged the government to allot the leader a space on the famed sands.

Incidentally, the development came on a day when a PIL filed in the Madras High Court seeking to restrain the Corporation of Greater Chennai from permitting any burial of bodies on the famous Marina Beach was dismissed as withdrawn on Tuesday.

DMK working president MK Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister E Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor CN Annadurai at the Marina. Stalin had also met the chief minister hours before his father's death.

A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications." Hence, the government is prepared to allot a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

Some reports said the government was reluctant about allotting space for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina as he was not a sitting chief minister. Former chief minister MG Ramachandran and his protege J Jayalalithaa were buried at the Marina Beach and memorials to them were erected there. Both were bitter foes of Karunanidhi in politics. Karunanidhi's predecessor Annadurai was also in office when he died.

DMK cadres held impromptu protests and engaged in sloganeering demanding a place for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina Beach even as minor incidents of violence were reported from some parts of the state.

Opposition parties backed the DMK's demand for Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina. Congress president Rahul Gandhi said that like the late chief minister J Jayalalithaa, Karunanidhi was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people and that he "deserves to be given space on the Marina beach."

"Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar (Karunanidhi) was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief," he said in a tweet.

CPM General Secretary Sitaram Yechury described the denial of the burial site at the Marina as "unfortunate." "This denial of the burial site for Kalaignar is most

unfortunate. Thiru (Mr) Karunanidhi deserves his rightful place of rest next to Anna. #Kalaingnar," he said in a tweet. CPI National Secretary D Raja said Karunanidhi should be given an "honourable last journey".

"DMK as a party and Karunanidhi's family requested for space in Marina. The state government must deal with the issue in a dignified way, accepting the request," he said.

The government, he said, should not create hurdles as it will be a "dishonour" for such a man. "I appeal to the state govt to accept the request of

DMK and the family," he added.

Tamil film industry's superstar Rajinikanth urged the state government to "take all efforts" to lay to rest Karunanidhi near the Anna Memorial on Marina.

"That is the due respect we would be giving to that great man," he said in a tweet. MDMK and PMK also backed DMK. Earlier, a PIL filed in the Madras High Court seeking to restrain the Corporation of Greater Chennai from permitting any burial of bodies on the Marina Beach was dismissed as withdrawn.

When the bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G Ramesh and Justice SS Sundar began the day's hearings, petitioner V Gandhimathi made an urgent mention and sought permission to withdraw her plea. Recording her submission, the bench dismissed the petition as withdrawn. The petitioner had submitted that the coastal area of Marina was being turned into a burial ground, which not only spoiled the aesthetics but also endangered the ecosystem in and around the beach.

She had sought a direction to the Corporation not to permit burials in the area. Despite such consequences, permission was given by the authorities for the burial of former chief ministers like CN Annadurai, MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa on the Marina, the petitioner said.

If any further burials and resultant construction were allowed at the Marina, it would damage the environment, she had said. A petition was filed in the Madras High Court in July last year seeking a direction for the exhumation of the mortal remains of Jayalalithaa and burying them at a place away from the coast.

Making the plea, an advocate had also opposed setting up of a memorial to Jayalalithaa at the Marina.

In March last year, Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhgaam, a rationalist Dravidian outfit, had also filed a petition in the high court on the issue. It sought to prevent the government from building a memorial to Jayalalithaa at her burial site.

In April this year, the Madras High Court had dismissed a batch of five public interest litigation petitions on such matters.
The Supreme Court will on Wednesday hear a plea alleging that Talib Hussain, a key witness in the sensational Kathua gang rape and murder case, is being tortured by the Jammu and Kashmir police in a fake rape case.

The Supreme Court will on Wednesday hear a plea alleging that Talib Hussain, a key witness in the Kathua gang rape and murder case, is being tortured by the Jammu and Kashmir Police in an unrelated rape case.

ANI reported that the petitioner claimed that Hussain was picked up by the police when he was helping a family member of the accused in the case. There is allegedly no information regarding his whereabouts.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices DY Chandrachud and Indira Banerjee considered the submission of a close relative of Hussain, seeking urgent hearing on the plea.

A habeas corpus writ petition has been filed by the cousin of the witness. It alleges that Hussain has been kept in illegal detention and being subjected to custodial torture.

Hussain's family alleged that he is being tortured in police custody in a fake rape case.

Senior advocate Indira Jaising, counsel for the petitioner, later said Hussain has been subjected to torture in Sambha in the state and they are seeking "judicial intervention" in the matter.

The apex court has transferred the trial in the Kathua gang rape and murder case to Pathankot after taking note of the plea of the father of the victim apprehending a threat to the family.

Hussain is a key witness in the Kathua gang rape case, in which an eight-year-old girl from a minority nomadic community disappeared from near her home in a village close to Kathua in the Jammu region on 10 January. Her body was found in the same area a week later.

The state police's Crime Branch, which probed the case, filed the main chargesheet against seven persons and a separate chargesheet against a juvenile in a court in Kathua district. The chargesheet has revealed chilling details about how the girl was allegedly kidnapped, drugged and raped inside a place of worship before being killed.

With inputs from PTI
The Lok Sabha on Monday passed the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018, which seeks to overturn a Supreme Court order that struck down the provision for immediate arrest.

New Delhi: The Lok Sabha on Monday passed the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018, which seeks to overturn a Supreme Court order that struck down the provision for immediate arrest. The amendment bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thaawar Chand Gehlot last week.

"The government had filed a review petition in the Supreme Court with regard to its order to strike down the original provisions of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. "Following the court decision, many SC/ST organisations called for a 'Bharat Bandh', leading to unfortunate incidents. The court decision says that to arrest an accused, approval of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSPs) concerned will be required. But this is not possible because in most parts of the country there are no SSPs," Gehlot said while speaking on the bill in the Lok Sabha. He pointed out that in his native state Madhya Pradesh, SSPs are posted only in Gwalior, Bhopal and Indore.

Replying to the debate on the bill, Gehlot asked the Congress if they were so concerned about protecting the rights of the SCs and ST, why didn't they strengthen the Act for so many years since the Act was passed in 1989. "If they thought there was scope for improvement in the Act and if there were some gaps, why didn't they amend it? They accuse us of delaying in bringing the amendment bill, but why didn't they do till 2015, when our government strengthened the Act?" he said.

The Minister also said that under the Act, now there are 47 crimes registered, while earlier there were just 22 crimes. "We didn't delay in bringing the amendment bill. The opposition tried to create an atmosphere in the country by spreading propaganda that we were anti-SC/ST and were delaying the bill," Gehlot added.

Leader of Congress party in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge said it took three-four months for the Narendra Modi government to bring the bill in the House and also questioned why it did not bring an ordinance on the matter for so long. "If the government could bring six ordinances on various other issues to favour a corporate, it also could have brought the 7th ordinance on this matter. But, unfortunately, the government could not bring an ordinance to protect the rights of millions (over 25 per cent population) of such persons in the country," said Kharge.

The Act prohibits commission of offences against members of the weaker sections and establishes special courts for trial of such offences and rehabilitation of victims. On 20 March, the Supreme Court ruled that to arrest persons accused of committing an offence under the said Act, approval of the SSP concerned will be required. Further, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) may conduct a preliminary inquiry to find out whether a prima facie case is made out under the Act.

The bill states that the Investigating Officer will not require approval of any authority for the arrest of the accused. Further, it provides that a preliminary inquiry will not be required for the registration of an FIR against those accused under the Act. The bill says that persons accused of committing an offence under the proposed Act cannot apply for anticipatory bail. It seeks to clarify that this provision will apply despite any judgments or orders of a court that provide otherwise.
In the passing of DMK president Muthuvel Karunanidhi at the age of 94 after a prolonged illness, Tamil Nadu has lost one of the tallest leaders of the Dravidian movement and the nation a veteran politician who brought regional parties to the national stage to usher in a coalition era and thereby realised his long-term goal of federalism at the Centre and autonomy at the state-level.

In the passing of DMK president Muthuvel Karunanidhi at the age of 94 after a prolonged illness, Tamil Nadu has lost one of the tallest leaders of the Dravidian movement and the nation a veteran politician who brought regional parties to the national stage to usher in a coalition era and thereby realised his long-term goal of federalism at the Centre and autonomy at the state-level.

In a public life spanning over seven decades, Karunanidhi dominated the political scene in Tamil Nadu. He served as chief minister for five terms, though only some lasted the full term. If Kamaraj was acclaimed as the cleanest leader the country had seen who had an unbroken stint of nine years as chief minister, DMK founder CN Annadurai had the record of having brought the party to power in the third election it faced in 1967,

But Annadurai remained chief minister only for a year as he died in February 1969 after bringing the Congress rule in the state to an end in 1967. Karunanidhi, who succeeded Annadurai and pipped senior rivals to the post, took over the leadership of the party on 26 July, 1969. And Karunanidhis health turned critical as his leadership of the party entered the 50th year.

While Karunanidhi led the party in good times and bad, his tenures as chief minister were marked by controversies. He had the dubious distinction of his ministry having been dismissed twice: in January 1976 and again in January 1991.

Karunanidhi, though known as a wily politician, made tactical blunders. For instance, it was matinee idol MG Ramachandran who helped Karunanidhi become chief minister after the passing of Annadurai in 1969 and yet Karunanidhi forced MGR out of the party in 1972 because he saw him as a threat. And MGR, who had no serious political ambitions till his expulsion from the DMK, formed the AIADMK and captured power in 1977. And ruled till his death in December 1987.

For all that, Karunanidhis decision to go in for simultaneous elections to the state Assembly, along with the Lok Sabha polls in 1971 that Indira opted for, paid handsome dividends for him. While Indira swept to power at the national level, DMK under Karunanidhi won 184 out of 234 Assembly seats, a record neither his successor MGR nor Jayalalithaa could break. The brute majority that the DMK got saw Karunanidhi rule with an iron fist and seeking to crush MGRs fledgling AIADMK. But it only rebounded on him and forced him into political exile for almost 13 years.

When Indira dismissed his government in 1976, Karunanidhi turned virulently against her. And yet, after the Janata government collapsed and she was seen to be on the comeback trail in 1980, he renewed his alliance with her, principles be damned. The 1980 Lok Sabha elections saw the AIADMK trounced in the state. And on the strength of that, Karunanidhi got the MGR government dismissed by Indira. The people brought MGR back to power and it was this vicious streak in him that made MGR call him an evil force, an impression that got stuck in the minds of the people.

Karunanidhis tenure from 1971 to '76 was also marked by what Sarkaria Commission called scientific corruption. It was a different matter that what Karunanidhi started in lakhs, MGR took to crores and Jayalalithaa to multi-crores. People condoned MGRs corruption because of his legendary philanthropic disposition. Jayalalithaas corruption caught up with her only at the fag end of her career with a special Bengaluru court convicting her. But the corruption stigma refused to leave Karunanidhi.

With such mass leaders, the narrative politics in Tamil Nadu became personality-oriented. So people had to choose: MGR or Karunanidhi and later Jayalalithaa or Karunanidhi. As long as MGR lived, he reigned. After his passing, people never gave a second term either to Karunanidhi or Jayalalithaa. This made the two leaders feel that regardless of what good they do for the people, they vote for change. So, why not loot and scoot?

Another major stigma attached to Karunanidhi was promotion of family rule. Though MGR also groomed Jayalalithaa, it was not on a scale Karunanidhi did with his family members. When the AIADMK-Congress alliance swept the Lok Sabha elections in Tamil Nadu, Rajiv Gandhi lost at the national level. VP Singh, who was voted to power, asked Karunanidhi to nominate a minister and he promptly picked his nephew Murasoli Maran.

The same story was repeated when Karunanidhi gave 40 Lok Sabha seats on a platter to Sonia in 2004 and as a reward, she gave him 15 berths in UPA-I. And so, key portfolios went to Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja and TR Balu. It was the corruption of the DMK nominees which brought disrepute to the UPA regime.

Karunanidhi's last term as chief minister (2006-2011) was a repeat of his earlier tenure (1971-1976), except the family members controlled every field and corruption was everywhere, but there was no violence, unlike before. It was this revulsion which enabled Jayalalithaa to secure a second consecutive term in 2016, though Stalin won nearly 90 seats. As Karunanidhi was around, he was naturally projected as chief minister if the DMK was voted to power and this went against Stalin.

After Kamaraj and Annadurai, it was Karunanidhi who had a wide circle of friends at the national level. Earlier, his national politics was rooted in anti-Congress-ism after Indira dismissed a series of state governments starting with Farooq Abdullahs, extending to NT Rama Raos and ending with DMKs D Ramachandran in Puducherry.

And as a reaction to that the National Front was born in Chennai thanks to Karunanidhi, with VP Singh, Rama Rao and other national leaders including Atal Bihari Vajpayee addressing a massive rally.

It led to the National Front government between 1989 and 1990. The DMK under Karunanidhi was a key partner in the United Front government in 1996. While both proved to be short-lived, Karunanidhi thereafter gave up his opposition to the BJP and joined the NDA under Vajpayee, calling him the right man in the wrong party.

The DMK enjoyed power at the Centre from 1999 to 2004 when Karunanidhi pulled out his party to go with Sonia as part of the UPA, which ruled for ten years from 2004. Such was his clout with Sonia that he refused to share power with the Congress at the state level, though he led a minority government from 2006 to 2011.

Politics apart, Karunanidhi was credited with social reforms he brought about such as reservation for the Other Backward Classes, equal share in property for women and enactment of a law to make men from all castes priests in Hindu temples.

In the ultimate analysis, Karunanidhi was the kind of man you could hate or love, but could not ignore.

Click here to follow news updates on Karunanidhi's demise.
On the first day of the stir in Maharashtra, around 63 percent of the Class III and Class IV employees remained absent from work.

Mumbai: Around 17 lakh employees of the Maharashtra government began their three-day strike on Tuesday to press for various demands, including implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission report.

On the first day of the stir, around 63 percent of the Class III and Class IV employees remained absent from work, an official said.

Though the unions claimed that the strike was "100 percent" successful, the government suggested that the services in general remained unaffected.

The unions had on Monday announced that Class III and Class IV employees of zilla parishads, state hospitals, staff working at Mantralaya (secretariat) will participate in the strike.

However, a General Administration Department (GAD) official said on Tuesday that 70.64 percent attendance was recorded at Mantralaya at the end of the day.

The attendance registered for Class I and Class II officers was 83.32 percent, and that for Class III employees 70 percent. The attendance for Class IV officers was 37.28 per cent, he said.

The average attendance for the government employees on field (outside the Mantralaya) was registered at 37.18 per cent on Tuesday, the official said.

As per information received from the rural health service centres, staffers did not take part in the strike on a large scale, he said. "Hence, no health services were affected," the official said.

He said around 30-40 percent nursing staff did not show up for work. Around 20 percent Class IV staffers remained absent.

"For employees who are covered under the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance (MESMA) Act, they had already been notified that the strike has been deemed illegal.

"The provisions of the Act will now be studied and appropriate action will be taken against them," he said.

The official said the government will follow the Centre's policy of "no work, no pay" for the employees not covered under MESMA Act and cut their salaries accordingly.

Earlier in the day, State Government Employees Organisation president Milind Sardeshmukh said the government employees are yet to receive arrears accrued to them since the implementation of the Sixth Pay Commission by the state government.

He claimed that 1.85 lakh posts of Class III and Class IV employees are lying vacant in Maharashtra.

In a government resolution issued late on Monday night, the government had said the employees' decision to go on strike will be construed as "misbehaviour" and disciplinary action will be taken against them.

Another resolution was issued stating that the Seventh Pay Commission will be implemented from January 2019.

The demand of employees for a five-day week and raising the retirement age from 58 years to 60 years will be taken up during Diwali, an official had said on Monday night.

The arrears will be paid in the salaries of employees for August month, as per the government resolution.

If the implementation of the Seventh Pay Commission is delayed, the employees will get the benefit as per the wage structure of the central government employees from January 2019, the government had stated.

Maharashtra finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar said on Tuesday the government was surprised over the "sudden strike" called by the employees, "as most of their demands have been accepted by the government".

"We have held repeated discussions with the unions representing the striking employees and assured them that their demands will be fulfilled in a time-bound manner. Yet they suddenly chose to go on strike," the minister said.

A release issued by one of the striking unions claimed that "history was achieved today, as the strike was 100 percent successful".

"Employees in every district held protest marches, 'dharnas' and voiced their displeasure against the government. If the government does not take cognisance of this strike, the employees will then go on an indefinite strike," it said.

Teachers and non-teaching staff of around 800 government-aided schools in Mumbai also went on strike, which affected the functioning of the schools.

In the last night government resolution, the state government had issued a resolution offering to make payment of dearness allowances into the bank accounts of teachers and non-teaching staff of government-aided schools.

"This decision created a confusion among the teachers whether to go on strike from today or not. Hence, some schools remained open. But this afternoon, we held talks with several leaders from the teaching community and decided to join the strike," Subhash More, executive chairman of Shikshak Bharati, said. Shikshak Bharati is a government-recognised union of teachers and non-teaching staff in Mumbai region.

Over 10,000 teachers in the region are affiliated with Shikshak Bharati, he claimed.

The Bombay University and College Teachers' Union (BUCTU) announced its support to the three-day long strike.

The BUCTU called upon the teachers in colleges and university to support their colleagues from the non-teaching staff, who will be in this strike and to ensure the strike is not disrupted.
The ruling National People's Party (NPP)-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government on Monday said it is open to the idea of conducting National Register of Citizens (NRC) updation exercise in the state, on the lines of Assam.

Shillong: The ruling National People's Party (NPP)-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government on Monday said it is open to the idea of conducting National Register of Citizens (NRC) updation exercise in the state, on the lines of Assam.

"NRC is a new concept in the state and the state government is open to the idea that has emanated from the people of the state that such an exercise should be also carried out in Meghalaya as it was done in Assam," Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong told journalists. He said various groups and political parties are also supporting the idea of NRC. "We will discuss this issue (NRC)," the Deputy Chief Minister said, adding that the government would further strengthen an existing law to be able to come up with comprehensive mechanisms to deal with the problem of influx in the state.

Tynsong, along with Home Minister James Sangma, held a meeting with the HynNiewtrep Youth Council (HYC), an organisation demanding introduction of Inner Line Permit (ILP) and preparation of an NRC to detect illegal Bangladeshi immigrants residing in the state.

ILP is an official travel document issued by the Union government to allow inward travel of an Indian citizen into a protected/ restricted area for a limited period. It is obligatory for Indian citizens from other states to obtain permit for entering into the restricted areas. "We will review and revisit the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, 2016, and would refer the matter to the law department to study in-depth so as to strengthen the act and make it a comprehensive one," he said.

During the meeting, the HYC said that the existing act, the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, 2016, would not be able to curb influx through mere setting up of entry/ exit points, and demanded incorporation of more clauses into the act to be able to monitor movement of outsiders who enter Meghalaya via the entry and entry/ exit points. The HYC reiterated its demanded from the state government to come with a law and incorporate in it the spirit of British-era ILP.

"Checking of documents of people from outside at entry/ exit points should not be relied only on electoral photo identify card (EPIC). Like in Assam, there are lakhs of people who have EPIC, but their names are not included in NRC," HYC president Robertjune Kharjahrin said. He said that law enforcing authorities should insist on other documents, too, and those who enter Meghalaya should be given some kind of a permit which explains everything including the days of stay and purpose of their visit. The HYC also suggested that transit pass which is valid for 48 hours should be issued to travellers who pass through Meghalaya to reach other states.
The IIT-Bombay recommended the immediate closing down of the Delisle road overbridge in Lower Parel, an area teeming with office-goers throughout the day.

The collapse of the Gokhale Bridge in Mumbais Andheri on 3 July has jolted authorities into action, and structural audits of all bridges which have been built over railway tracks in the city are now being conducted. After the IIT-Bombay recommended the closure of the Delisle Road overbridge in Lower Parel over safety concerns, the Western Railway has now begun the process to dismantle the structure.

Speaking to Firstpost, Western Railway spokesperson Ravindra Bhakar said, "We issued tenders for the work of dismantling the bridge on 2 August, and the process will be completed on 16 August."

The road overbridge is in an area teeming with office-goers throughout the day, and it was initially closed for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, leading to much chaos and near-stampede situations. It is now open only for pedestrians. Ashok Dudhe, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mumbai Traffic Police said that vehicular traffic is now being diverted to NM Joshi Marg, Senapati Bapat Marg and Ganpatrao Kadam Road.

Meanwhile, confusion still prevails over which authority is responsible for work on the bridge -- the Western Railway or the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation. Bhakar said that while the Railways will undertake the task of dismantling the bridge, the question as to who will reconstruct it has not yet been resolved. The Railways had earlier stated that the BMC is the authority which is responsible. On the other hand, BMC chief engineer (bridges) Shitalaprasad Kori said that work on reconstructing the bridge should be done by the railways.

Here's the legal position. According to Section 16(2) of The Railways Act, 1989, the railway administration is not responsible for the construction of bridges across the tracks once ten years have passed since the tracks at the particular place began to be used. However, Section 17 states that the local authority (in this case, the BMC) can ask the railways to construct bridges across tracks if they are needed, which will be at the expense of the civic body.

The Western Railway also alleges that the BMC owes it arrears to the tune of Rs 27 crore for the repairs of footover bridges (the one at Delisle Road is a road overbridge). A senior railway official said, "Out of the total pending amount of Rs 27 crore, about Rs 12 crore constitutes old amounts, including those pending for six months and above."

Speaking about the Delisle bridge, the official also said, "The Railways had identified the structure as unsafe in one of its audits earlier. The IIT-B report only expedited the process of repairing it."

However, commuters are facing a harrowing time owing to the diversions at Lower Parel. Sagar Kelaskar, a resident of Prabhadevi, says, Traffic on the Delisle Bridge used to be slow-moving, but it still used to move at a somewhat steady pace. Now, on the alternative routes, vehicles often come to a standstill. It is a particularly difficult situation for vehicles coming from the eastern side to the western side, and for people coming to Lower Parel from south Mumbai. Sometimes, even calling the diversions as bottlenecks is an understatement.

Why the Lower Parel bridge weakened

Speaking to Firstpost, Pradipta Banerji, a professor at IIT-Bombay who is heading the bridge inspection team, said, A major problem in the case of the structure at Lower Parel was the lack of accessibility of the portions which needed repairs, and this was an issue which had also plagued the Gokhale Bridge in Andheri. Due to this, maintenance work and steps to prevent corrosion of the steel structure, such as painting it, were not possible. Further, (at the Delisle Road bridge), a large amount of water and muck would get accumulated between the edge of the road and the footpath. This particularly became a problem during the monsoon, and it contributed to the deterioration.

Banerji further pointed to growing air pollution in the past few decades as a reason for the weakening of civic infrastructure. Of late, due to pollution, rain is acidic and it has sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides, and this rain comes in contact with steel bridges. Any acidic substance hastens the corrosion process of metal and makes structures vulnerable. A study conducted by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM, Pune) in 2002 had shed light on the problem of acidic rain occurring due to human activities in and around Mumbai. The study revealed that rainwater at Kalyan over a period of twenty years from 1973-1974 to 1994-1995 became acidic to due to the long-term effects of pollutants. While it observed a decreasing trend of excess sulphate in Colaba and Kalyan because of pollution control measures, it observed an increase in nitrogen oxides in both the places because of increased automobile emissions.

Another factor for the weakening of the Delisle Road Bridge is that it is nearly a century old  built in 1921. Commenting on this aspect, Banerji says, Any steel structure which is about a hundred years old will naturally suffer a loss of load-carrying capacity over a period of time, howsoever much one tries to maintain and repair it. In the long-term, they simply have to be replaced.

IIT-B has also recommended the reconstruction or repair of five other bridges which go over railway tracks  Frere road overbridge (ROB) at Grant Road, Belasis ROB at Mumbai Central, Tilak ROB at Dadar, Carol ROB at Prabhadevi and the ROB at Mahalaxmi. Out of these, the bridge at Grant Road was briefly shut down after the accident at Andheri, due to a crack which was discovered on it. However, traffic was restored on it after officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and Western Railway concluded that the crack was merely on the surface.

Andheri bridge collapsed due to corrosion, weight of cables

According to a press statement issued by Sushil Chandra, Commissioner of Railway Safety, Western Circle, Mumbai, the Andheri bridge collapse occurred due to heavy/deep corrosion and pitting of cantilever steel brackets supporting the pathway, resulting in thinning down of the section and failure of the pathway of the ROB. The failure of the ROB pathway was contributed by (sic) the additional load of various cables, sand, paver blocks, etc provided by the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai without prior permission from Western Railway. These additional loads were not considered at the time of original design.

One person  Asmita Katkar  died and four people sustained injuries because of the mishap.

Bombay HC takes note of infrastructure woes

The Bombay High Court in a recent order has voiced serious concern about infrastructure for train commuters in Mumbai. A division bench of the court noted on 12 July, It is high time that the immediate development of the existing transport infrastructure is considered of paramount importance for the lakhs of common citizens who depend on local train services, which are rightly the lifeline of Mumbai city. If the lifeline is itself not up to the mark and satisfying the basic necessary requirements for all categories of commuters, then surely, life itself is affected.

The court has asked the additional solicitor-general to call for a meeting of general managers of various Railway zones and directed them to hold discussions on a number of issues pertaining to ensuring safety for train commuters. One of these points is the problems related to footover bridges, including their width and steps to avoid overcrowding.

The court issued these directions in response to two public interest litigations seeking directions for better rail safety. The petitions were filed following the stampede at Elphinstone Road station on 29 September, 2017, in which 23 people lost their lives.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday, while hearing the case of the Muzaffarpur shelter home rape cases, expressed concern over incidents of rape in India and said that women are being raped 'left, right, and centre'. The apex court referred to National Crime Records Bureau data which says that a woman is raped every six hours in the country.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday, while hearing the case of the Muzaffarpur shelter home rape cases, expressed concern over incidents of rape in India and said that women are being raped "left, right, and centre". The apex court referred to National Crime Records Bureau data which says that a woman is raped every six hours in the country.

A bench comprising Justices MB Lokur, Deepak Gupta and KM Joseph pulled up the Bihar government for funding an NGO which ran the shelter home in Muzaffarpur where girls were allegedly raped and sexually abused.

The bench referred to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data and said that every six hours, a woman is raped in India. The court referred the NCRB data and said 38,947 women were raped in India in 2016.

"What is to be done? Girls and women are getting raped left, right and centre," the bench said. Advocate Aparna Bhat, who was appointed as an amicus curiae in the matter, told the court that no compensation has been paid to the alleged victims of sexual assault at the Muzaffarpur shelter home.

The lawyer also said that one of the girls, who was allegedly raped at the shelter home in Muzaffarpur, was still "missing". Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), which conducted an audit of shelter homes, told the court that out of 110 such institutions in Bihar, "grave concerns" have been raised about 15.

To this, the Bihar government told the apex court that nine cases of sexual abuse have been lodged involving these 15 institutions run by various NGOs. The hearing in the matter will resume at 2 pm.

The apex court had earlier restrained the electronic media from showing, even in morphed form, images of the alleged victims of rape and sexual assault at the shelter home, observing they cannot be compelled to "relive the trauma" again and again.

The bench had said that it had not restrained the police authority from conducting probe and if they want to question the alleged victims, they would have to take assistance of professional counsellors and qualified child psychiatrist in consultation with National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences in Bengaluru and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai.

Over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the shelter home run by Brajesh Thakur, the chief of the state-funded NGO. The alleged sexual exploitation of the girls was first highlighted in an audit report submitted by TISS to the state's social welfare department in April.

An FIR was lodged against 11 people, including Thakur, on May 31. The probe has now been taken over by the CBI. In all, sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in their medical examination, while two others who were unwell were yet to undergo medical tests.

The TISS audit report stated that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse. A special investigation team was formed to probe the complaints. The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani.

Women staff members of the shelter home and Thakur were among those who were arrested by the police in connection with the case.
The family submitted the necessary documents when the process for National Register of Citizens (NRC) began. However, earlier this year they were sent a notice by the Foreigners Tribunal.

Editor's Note: Of the 4 million who didn't make it to NRC, 2.48 lakh have been marked as 'D' voters. The Supreme Court has asked Assam government not to take any coercive action on those who are found to be without proper documents as required under recent National Register of Citizens. NRC, a product of Assam Accord, is expected to solve the fear of Bangladeshi immigrants that has been prevalent in the state for quite some time now. The Centre proposed in 1999 an updated NRC in Assam to solve the problem of "illegal immigration" and two pilot projects were conducted in Dhubri and Barpeta districts. But breaking out of a riot in Barpeta grounded the project. In 2005, when All Assam Student Union opposed the prime minister's visit to the state, tripartite talk between AASU, State government, and the Centre resulted in a decision to prepare a model for the NRC process, which was delayed yet again by over 5 years by the state government. It was only when Abhijeet Sharma of Assam Public Works (APW), an NGO, filed a writ petition in 2009 that the SC's direct intervention led to the start of NRC process in 2014. Firstpost will run a series which will feature 30 profiles in 30 days of those residents of Assam who have not been covered under the final draft of NRC which will decide if they continue to live in the state that they call 'home'.

***

Cachar: "I need help to go to toilet, need support even to eat food, but nobody can help me in the jail. I pray to God never send an old man to jail. I hope I die before being sent there again," says Chandradhar Das, the 'suspected foreigner' in Assam's Cachar district, who has seen a hundred summers and a couple more. After spending nearly three months in a detention camp earlier this year, the 102-year-old man has, now, been asked to appear before the Foreigners Tribunal on 14 August to prove his citizenship, yet again.

In a shaky voice, Das says: "It is true I was in jail, but the officers and inmates treated me well. The judge used to call me 'Sadhu Baba' during hearing. Other officers used that name too. But the room in the jail is not good for an old man like me."

"It is unfair that he is being forced to travel so much when the judiciary knows that my father has valid documents to prove his identity. I am afraid we may lose him one of these days," says his daughter, Niyoti Roy, adding that Chandradhar should not be treated like this. "His health deteriorates every time we come back from court, mostly due to the pressure of the journey." Niyoti, who is separated from her husband, along with her brother Gouranga take care of their ailing father and mother, Adorini Das, who is bed-ridden as well. Gouranga's wife and children live nearby in the same village. Rest of the family found their names in the final draft list of National Register of Citizens (NRC).

On 2 January, Chandradhar, a resident of Borai Basti under Dholai constituency in the Amraghat area, was declared a foreigner by an ex parte judgment of the tribunal when he could not appear before the court due to his frail health.

He was put in the detention camp on 31 March after he failed to appear before the tribunal court and furnish the required documents to prove his Indian citizenship. However, his family claims Chandradhar had the necessary documents  including a 1966 citizenship card.

The old man spent nearly three months in the detention camp inside Silchar Central Jail before being moved to Silchar Medical College owing to his deteriorating health. Though he was later granted bail on humanitarian grounds, Chandradhar was asked to appear before a tribunal court at least "six to seven times", said Niyoti. Miserable condition of roads make the 40-km journey to the court even more arduous for the old man and his family.

Chandradhar's daughter feels it is inhumane to call an ailing old man repeatedly. "In FT-6, where the case is underway, there is no government lawyer. The member (judge) keeps taking leaves and as a result, we suffer. My father is not healthy enough to travel 80 kilometers twice a month or more. We are not financially strong enough to book a car for him every time. So, we have to resort to public transport to reach the court in Silchar," she says explaining their ordeal.

"My father is not able to speak well now but he was a fighter throughout his life. He left Bangladesh in mid-1950s due to the continuous threat from the majority community. He was a vendor back then and was not allowed to work," Niyoti said. "He entered India through Tripura and started working as a daily wage labourer in Teliamura area. He got married and my elder brother was born there but soon local indigenous militants started creating problems for him. They burnt our house down and threatened to kill our family members. My father thought Barak Valley would be a safer place as it is one of the few Bengali-dominated areas in North East."

Niyoti also recalled how the family lived in Amraghat peacefully for over four decades. "We were never served the D-voter notice or had our identities questioned. My parents voted in all the elections and so did we," she said, adding that the family submitted the necessary documents when the process for NRC began. However, earlier this year they were sent a notice by the Foreigners Tribunal.

"The court ordered my father to appear before the tribunal and prove his identity. My father wanted to but his health condition didnt allow him. My mother, who is around 80-year-old, is also bed-ridden and we failed to realise that ignoring court's order may lead to his arrest," said Niyoti, highlighting the plight of several others in Assam who are yet to understand all the legal aspects of the NRC process.

"India is a country where we consider humanity to be the biggest law. My father is a loyal Indian citizen and he doesn't have any criminal record. How can he be taken from his home in this old age and thrown behind bars?" asked the daughter. The exasperation in her voice is hard to miss. We saw our father being arrested in an age when one needs medical assistance.

Be it ministers, officials or other influential people, the family knocked on every door to get help for their father. "In the end, we appealed to the Deputy Commissioner of our district, Dr S Lakshmanan, to grant bail to my father on humanitarian grounds," Their fight, however, is far from over.

"They are aware that my father is ill. Yet they say that there is no other option and he has to come to FT-6 till the case is resolved. We don't want to disobey the judicial system and so we convince our father to travel on every date. But we are afraid that one day, we will bring his dead body back home. Now, even I want him to go. At least, this humiliation will stop," Niyoti said, all the while fighting back tears.

Several Barak Valley-based organisations  including Unconditional Citizenship Demand Forum (UCDF)  came forward to support the family. "We cannot decide whether Das is an Indian or an illegal migrant. But he is a 102-year-old sick man who doesnt deserve such humiliation," said Kamal Chakraborty, a UCDF member. He claims many from the economically weaker sections are serving imprisonment in such detention camps across Assam after being declared ex parte foreigner as they cannot hire lawyers. "Some of them get legal support from government organisations but many are still left out. Unfortunately, our system shows less humanity towards the suspected and declared foreigners."

Chandradhar's lawyer Soumen Choudhury believes that 14 August will be the final appearance and the court will give its verdict in his favour. We are optimistic that he will be freed from charges of D-voter on that day. He has suffered a lot but the court is dealing with the matter more from a humanitarian perspective."

The author is a Silchar-based freelance writer and a member of 101Reporters.com, a pan-India network of grassroots reporters
The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) is an organisation that for years has played an important role in creating a strong strategic partnership between the two countries

The India-US relationship defined in terms of strategic ties and trade has become an important part of India's foreign policy. The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) has played an important role in creating a strong strategic partnership between the two countries. While its central focus remains on promoting bilateral trade between the two countries, the realm of its advocacy does not stop here.

In an interview, Mukesh Aghi, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of USISPF explained how his organisation played an important role in having India as an exception under the recently passed Countering America's Adversaries through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) by the US government.

Talking about his organisation and the most recent example of his organisation's advocacy that resulted in a very positive outcome for India, Aghi said, "We are the only independent organisation that is focusing on the India-US relationship and we are not-for-profit. The objective is to look at the relationship from geopolitical, economic, innovation and technology perspectives, to name a few. To give you an example of our success, The US Senate passed the CAATSA and we had a major campaign to make India an exception."

He added, "Our board members had reached out to several Senators and Congressmen. We had lobbied the White House as well and the end result was that we managed to get India added as an exception."

"If you allow a process through which India becomes collateral damage, it damages the relationship for the next 20 years. We were conscious of that and worked really hard," Aghi said.

Speaking of the rising investment in India, Aghi said, "Member companies in the past three years have invested $27 billion in India, so we focus on ensuring that the investment continues. The routes to investment continue to improve the ease of doing business in India. We advise the government about the issues and are working on them. India is the number one destination for FDI now."

When asked about the sort of change in perceptions that has been created in the US vis-a-vis India in light of the economic reforms initiated in the past four years, Aghi said, "This government is absolutely proactive in encouraging investment in the country and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the biggest cheerleader for that. Every time he visits any country, the FDI from that country goes up. So, if you look at it from the ease of doing business perspective, investments are not made in Delhi alone, but at the state level too. We worked with the company looking for places in which it is easier to do business and to go and invest. Some of the easiest places to work are some are the states where the BJP is in power."

He added, "Trade between the two nations has went up by 12 percent between 2017 and 2018 and it was $126 billion last year. We see the trend moving forward. It is going to be up for multiple reasons and a couple of the reasons for this are defence and energy."

How will the US-China trade war impact India? "India will benefit. What we can see China is taking a softer stand towards India. China is realising if the war continues with the US then it has to have local partners and India is definitely a neighbour with a big market," Aghi replied.

On current irritants between India and the US in terms of trade, the USISPF CEO and president said, "Our position is that any kind of tariffs put in place by either India or the US is not good for business, not good for consumers. So, we strongly believe that there should not be a tariff. Currently, the irritant is you have price control over medical devices in India; in the US we have GSP towards India. There is an issue on the tariff side on steel and aluminium and renewable exports from India. I think there are irritants on both sides and our recommendation is the removal of tariffs."

Commenting on the reforms initiated by the current government and the impact they will have on trade and investment, Aghi said, "The US sees the Indian government in a very positive way in two broad areas: Defence and economic reform. Further, India has been projecting a very consistent foreign policy. If you look at the Modi administration, in terms of economic reform India has consistently brought in measures like GST, RERA and the bankruptcy code. So, investors are quite patient and also positive about this government as it seems to be moving in the right direction. For example, there are no major corruption scandals, which is something that gives us a lot of encouragement."
Opposition parties in Lok Sabha dubbed the Rafale fighter jet deal a scam, with the Congress demanding the setting up of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate it

New Delhi: Dubbing the Rafale fighter jet deal as a "scam", Opposition parties in Lok Sabha Tuesday demanded a probe into it, with the Congress demanding the setting up of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate it.

The demand for a JPC was raised in the Lok Sabha by Congress MP KC Venugopal when he initiated the debate on the Supplementary Demand for Grants for 2018-19 and the demand for excess grants for 2015-16.

He said the House should know about the cost of the Rafale deal and alleged that there was "a major scam".

"We demand a JPC inquiry into this deal," he said.

Objecting to his demand, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey urged Deputy Speaker M Thambi Durai that Venugopal should place the evidence before the House before making any "wild allegation".

Later, Trinamool Congress leader Saugata Roy also said that the Rafale deal was "one of the biggest scandals of independent India."

"The country is going to lose Rs 2,500 crore due to Rafale deal," Roy said, while demanding a "full-fledged enquiry" into the fighter jet deal
The Parliament on Monday passed the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018 which ensures stringent punishment for those convicted of raping girls below 12 years of age.

New Delhi: The Parliament on Monday passed the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018 which ensures stringent punishment for those convicted of raping girls below 12 years of age. The bill was passed in the Lok Sabha last month and on Monday it was unanimously passed in Rajya Sabha by voice vote.

After the bill was passed in the Parliament, Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju told ANI, "Both houses of the Parliament have passed Criminal Law Amendment Bill and now we will ensure that this act takes effect in the manner in which it has been envisaged. There are various other steps taken to ensure speedy trial."

The bill will now replace the Criminal Law Ordinance, promulgated by President Ram Nath Kovind on 22 April. In the light of an increase in incidents of rape of minors, the Union Cabinet on 21 April approved a number of measures to amend the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018 stipulates a minimum jail term of 20 years which may go up to life in prison or death sentence, for the rape of a girl under 12 years. While perpetrators involved in the gang-rape of a girl below 12 years of age will get life imprisonment or death.

In case of rape of a girl below 16 years, the minimum punishment has been increased from 10 to 20 years and it is extendable to life imprisonment. The punishment for the gang-rape of a girl below 16 years of age will invariably be imprisonment for the rest of the life of the convict.

The cabinet also decided to put in place a number of measures for speedy investigation and trial of rape cases. It has also provided for a six-month time limit for disposal of appeals in rape cases.

As per the bill, fast-track special courts will be set up to exclusively deal with rape cases. Apart from this, only a woman judge will hear the rape case and a woman police officer will record the statement of rape victims.
Shirin Mazari, under consideration for appointment as Pakistan's next defence minister, publicly advocated nuclear strikes on Indian population centres in the event of war between the two countries

New Delhi: Shirin Mazari, a prominent Islamabad-based scholar under consideration for appointment as Pakistan's next defence minister by soon-to-be prime minister Imran Khan, publicly advocated nuclear strikes on Indian population centres in the event of war between the two countries, a review of her work by Firstpost has revealed. "Targeting" of Pakistans nuclear weapons, Mazari wrote in an October 1999 article published in The Defence Journal, "should be primarily counter-value focusing on Indian urban and industrial centres".

In nuclear warfare doctrine, counter-value targets refer to enemy assets which are of value, but not actually a military threat, such as cities and civilian populations. The term counter-force is used to refer to military targets.

In an earlier article in The Defence Journal, written in April 1999, Mazari had given more specifics on her counter-value targeting recommendations. "Included in this," she wrote, "would be New Delhi, Bombay and all the nuclear installations that come within this range."

"India's nuclear installations are close to population centres," Mazari continued, "so damage can be compounded by attacking these facilities."

The two countries had, on 31 December, 1988, signed an agreement not to attack each other's nuclear facilities. From January 27, 1991, when the agreement went into force, Islamabad and New Delhi have exchanged lists of nuclear facilities each year. "Lots of capitals across the world are going to be very worried about Mazari's appointment," a senior Indian diplomat told Firstpost, "Leave aside her evident lack of commitment to binding national agreements, her casual language on nuclear war is of extreme concern."

There was concern in the United States, too, over reports  that first appeared on Pakistan's Geo and Dunya television stations  that Khan is considering appointing Mazari to his Cabinet, either as defence minister or foreign minister.

"Frankly," one official told Firstpost, "its bad enough that someone like this occupies a prominent role in public life; her appointment to a key strategic position would be very, very disturbing."

Interestingly, Mazari's choice of population targets also appears driven by religious considerations. "It would be politically rational to avoid targeting certain industrial and population centres  such as Amritsar and the Sikh population in the Punjab and South [sic] and West Bengal  even when Pakistan acquired the capability to do so," she wrote in April 1999.

"For one," Mazari wrote in defence of her proposition that West Bengal not be targeted, "Pakistan could then inform Bangladesh that it did not want to put its population at risk by nuclear attacks close to the Bangladesh borders  and so on."

Her reasons for not wishing to target Punjabs Sikhs was not spelt out in the paper, but Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence Directorate has long had links to Khalistan terrorists in the region. Large parts of Mazaris work centres around shaping a Pakistani nuclear doctrine that hinges around a "one-rung escalation ladder"  in plain language, to respond directly to a conventional-weapons attack by India with the massive use of nuclear weapons against civilian targets.

"Since Pakistan lacks spatial depth, it cannot afford to get bogged down in a conventional war for any length of time," Mazari argued, "So, Pakistan has to go for a one-rung escalation ladder strategy in terms of nuclear weapons. That is why a no-first-use notion is not viable for Pakistan within the context of the Indian threat."

For Indian strategists now dealing with the escalation of the conflict in Kashmir, nudged along by Pakistans intelligence services, Mazaris rise is of particular concern. Her ideas, some Islamabad-based analysts believe, helped influence former military ruler General Pervez Musharraf to go to war in 1999, convinced  correctly  that Pakistans threatened large-scale use of nuclear weapons would deter India against retaliating by attacking in the plains of Rajasthan and Punjab.

In her April 1999 paper, Mazari noted that "unless Pakistan can frame some alternative operationalisations of its Kashmir policy, India may well convince the world that it is making shifts and showing flexibility on Kashmir while Pakistan is the one that remains intransigent."

However, Mazari went on to add, "it is already clear that India has not only lost Kashmir politically, it is losing it militarily also."

Furthermore, she argued, "events in Timor and the prospect of a UN-supervised referendum in Western Sahara in the near future make it ever more difficult for the UN to deny the Kashmiris their plebiscite."

Some in Indias intelligence community fear Mazari's rise to office could signal that Khan intends to up the stakes in Kashmir again.

Nuclear weapons experts in the United States and India have long cast Mazari as Pakistan's own Dr Strangelove  the unhinged nuclear scientist at the centre of Stanley Kubrick's 1964 masterpiece about a United States Air Force General who orders a nuclear first-strike on the Soviet Union. However, Mazari has until now been seen as a fringe figure, on the hawkish margins of Pakistans strategic community.

In Kubrick's film, Dr Strangelove proposes bizarre strategies to survive nuclear apocalypse, including moving several hundred thousand people to live in deep underground mines, and a breeding programme with a 10:1 female-to-male ratio to repopulate the earth. Dr Strangelove was an amalgamation of three real-life figures key to the nuclear arms race after World War II: Edward Teller, the famously hawkish physicist who supervised work on the hydrogen bomb, RAND Corporation strategic analyst Herman Kahn, and rocket scientist Wernher Von Braun, a Nazi granted immunity by the United States despite his use of slave labour.

Interestingly, Mazaris work does not consider the potential consequences to Pakistan itself of the likely consequences of a first-strike  a massive Indian response.

Daniel Elsberg  a war-planner and later analyst who became famous for leaking thousands of classified documents on the Vietnam War  revealed in a recent book that President John F Kennedy asked military planners advocating nuclear war with the Soviet Union what casualties the United States would suffer.

The answer, Elsberg writes, came in the form of a short, simple graph, with lines and numbers: 275,000,000 and 325,000,000.
The legal challenge on the validity of Article 35A affected life in Kashmir which severely affected on Monday for the second consecutive day due to a complete shutdown called by separatists against the legal challenge in the Supreme Court.

Srinagar: Life in Kashmir remained severely affected on Monday for the second consecutive day due to a complete shutdown called by separatists against the legal challenge in the Supreme Court on the validity of Article 35A.

The two-day strike called by the Joint Resistance Leadership (JRL)  comprising Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mohammad Yasin Malik  comes as the Supreme Court was scheduled to hear a PIL challenging the validity of Article 35A on Monday, which was later adjourned.

Article 35A, incorporated in the Constitution by a 1954 Presidential Order, confers special status to the permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir, and bars people from outside the state from acquiring any immovable property in the state. Educational institutions, shops and business establishments remained closed across the Valley, while all kinds of transport remained off the roads due to the strike.

The state government has filed an application before the registrar of the Supreme Court, informing that it was going to seek an adjournment of the hearing in view of the "ongoing preparations" for the upcoming panchayat and urban local body and municipal elections in the state. Officials said the security forces had been deployed at vulnerable places in the city and elsewhere in Kashmir for maintaining law and order. The situation across the Valley is peaceful with no untoward incident reported from anywhere so far today, the officials said.

Stone-pelting incidents were reported from some places on Saturday, with six people getting injured in Kulgam district in a clash between protesters and security forces. Various organisations. including the state bar association, transporters and traders' bodies have extended support to the shutdown call. Protests have been held across the length and breadth of Kashmir over the past few days, with mainstream parties like National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also holding rallies in support of continuing Article 35A.
Article 35A appears in the Constitution as an Appendix. How can an Article, which has been implemented as if its a part of the Constitution, be missing from the main text of the Constitution?

New Delhi: When she was 16 years old, Meena (name changed) was determined to work hard to realise her mother's dream. She studied day and night because her family, especially her mother, wanted her to become a doctor  potentially the first doctor in the family ever. She was so excited. When she secured good marks in her senior secondary exams, she was all set to go. Her parents were ecstatic. She would be the first child of the safai karmachari community to become a doctor.

Meena's parents are both safai karmacharis employed with the Jammu Municipal Corporation. They worked hard cleaning the city all their working lives to ensure a bright future for their children. Their hopes touched the skies when they realised their daughter Meena was bright and good at studies. They loved to hear her speak in English  her confidence and clear diction matched the convent-educated children of their city. They had saved their hard-earned money for years in order to be able to afford the cost of her medical education. They were determined that their daughter's higher education would not suffer due to a lack of funds. Now nothing could stop their family from rising out of the generations-old tag of 'safai karmachari'.

In the great democracy that is India, every citizen has the right to equality. There are innumerable examples of achievers who have risen out of poverty, backwardness and social stigmas to become role models for the future. Meena had dreamed she would become such a role model. But it was not to be.

Her dreams were shattered. Her mother is often in tears these days, her father is an angry man. It was not just the dream of a family that was shattered, but the dream of an entire community, an entire generation.

When Meena went to apply for the medical entrance exam, she found herself persona non grata. They told her it was mandatory to attach the Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC) along with her application form. And Meena did not have this certificate. In fact, her entire community did not have this certificate.

Meenas father and other family members tried all possible means to get past this mandatory provision, but to no avail. Then, like all parents, they tried to get Meena admitted into other higher technical education courses, considering her high grades. But here too their only roadblock was the PRC.

Its been some years now since Meena and her family took this blow. But life has changed drastically. Now they have nothing to look forward to. No dreams, no hopes, no excitement. Meena has become a loner, the once smiling face is devoid of expression. She avoids meeting outsiders, and spends her time taking tuitions at home.

This is Article 35A for you.

Meenas case is not unique in Jammu and Kashmir. There are hundreds and thousands of youngsters like her who are discriminated against by the very state in which they were born and brought up. In 1957, the government of Jammu and Kashmir state invited around 200 Valmiki families from Punjab, specifically to be employed as safai karmacharis (sweepers). These families agreed to work in the state after being promised that they would be given permanent resident status in the state. What they did not realise was that their permanent resident status would be beset with the clause 'only to the extent of being safai karmacharis'  a clause that would ruin the aspirations of generations to come!

After a lapse of five decades, the community has grown in numbers. Parents sent their children to school and hoped to build a better future for them. However, their dreams and efforts are shattered simply because they are 'permanent residents' of Jammu and Kashmir only to the extent of being safai karmacharis!

Their children cannot get admission to government-run professional institutes. The educated youths from these Valmiki families are only eligible to be appointed as safai karmacharis.

Even when educated safai karmacharis working in Jammu Municipality qualify for promotion, they are denied the opportunity as they can only be sweepers, nothing else. These safai karmacharis can vote in Lok Sabha elections, but not state Assembly or municipality elections. Hence the state-level political leadership does not bother about them  because they'll never be a votebank. Their voice is not heard by anyone in power corridors.

Safai karmacharis/Valmikis share this plight with other communities in the state such as West Pakistan refugees. Half the population of the state ie the women are also severely affected by the conditions set by the state government on who is granted PRC.

What is Article 35A?

Article 35A is a provision incorporated in the Constitution giving the Jammu and Kashmir legislature a carte blanche to decide who are permanent residents of the state. Those who are granted permanent resident status have access to rights and privileges enjoyed by citizens across India  right to public sector jobs, acquisition of property in the state, scholarships and other public aid and welfare. However, those who are not granted this status are denied these rights, thus creating an unimaginable divide among the communities  a legally sanctioned division of 'haves and have-nots'.

On 14 May, 1954, the President of India issued an order called the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954. It came into effect immediately and superseded the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1950. Besides carrying out many modifications and changes, this presidential order 'added' a new "Article 35A" after Article 35 to the Constitution of India. But you will not find this new article in the main text of the Constitution.

Article 35(A) enables the state Assembly to define 'permanent residents' and to give them rights and privileges that are denied to all other citizens of India who do not fit into this definition of 'permanent resident'. This Article has denied basic rights to many communities living within Jammu and Kashmir for the past six decades.

As a result, none except those defined as permanent residents are entitled to property rights; employment in state government; participation in the panchayat, municipalities and legislative Assembly elections; admission to government-run technical education institutions; scholarships and other social benefits.

Why was Article 35A challenged in the Supreme Court?

Addition or deletion of an Article amounts to amendment to the Constitution. And the Constitution can be amended only by Parliament as per procedure clearly laid out in Article 368. But Article 35A was never presented before the Parliament.

It appears, in this case, the president bypassed the amending procedure as laid out in the Constitution on India in order to add the new Article 35A. This also means that Article 368 of the Constitution, in its application to Jammu and Kashmir, also got amended. The President of India does not have legislative power, but in this case he appears to have performed the function of Parliament itself.

The 1954 order states it is being issued "in exercise of powers conferred by clause (1) of Article 370 of the Constitution, with the concurrence of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir".

Article 370 does not state anywhere that it confers on the president executive powers so vast that he can amend the Constitution to the extend of adding a new Article. So, was it not the abuse and misuse of Article 370 through which Article 35A was brought into existence?

It is noteworthy that this 'amendment' to the Constitution was concealed from general audit by not mentioning the same in the text of editions of the main Constitution. Till very recently, most constitutional experts were completely unaware of this Article 35A and its implications. This deliberate secrecy itself puts a big question mark on the intentions behind the making of this Article.

Article 35A appears in the Constitution as an Appendix. How can an Article, which has been implemented as if its a part of the Constitution, be missing from the main text of the Constitution?

Article 35A has been challenged in the Supreme Court, because only the apex court is empowered to hear cases relating to the Constitution of India.

Besides the legality of how Article 35A was added to the Constitution via the back door, the Supreme Court will also have to take into account the gross human rights violations that are existing on the ground in Jammu and Kashmir state because of the implementation of this dubious Article. After all, it's a matter of the rights of lakhs of citizens of India and their future generations.

The author, a senior journalist, is currently the media director of Jammu Kashmir Study Centre, a think-tank on issues and policies relating to Jammu and Kashmir
The Supreme Court will on Tuesday hear the Muzaffarpur shelter home abuse case, a week after after it was handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

A week after the case was handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Supreme Court will resume hearing the Muzaffarpur shelter home rape cases. The apex court last week had taken suo motu cognisance of the case and had sought explanation from Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government and the Women and Child Development (WCD) Ministry as to why neither body took action to stop minor girls from being raped in shelters home in Muzaffarpur. A notice has been issued to both governments.

Reports had said that the chargesheet in the case detailed a network of police, politicians, administration and criminals behind the racket that has been going on for around four years. The apex court has also banned electronic media from putting up images of minor girls, even in morphed or blurred forms, who were allegedly raped at the shelter homes in Muzaffarpur, ANI had reported. The court said the victims cannot be forced to relive the trauma.

The Bihar government has, so far, suspended 23 officials and staffers, including six assistant directors of child protection units, on charges of negligence and dereliction of duty.

The bench said it has not restrained the police authority from conducting a probe and if they want to question the alleged victims, they would have to take assistance of professional counsellors and qualified child psychiatrist in consultation with National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences in Bengaluru and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) in Mumbai.

A bench of Justices M B Lokur and Deepak Gupta took cognisance of the incident following a letter from a Patna resident, Ranvijay Kumar . The letter referred to the situation in the shelter home where over 30 inmates were allegedly sexually abused over several years. The bench said it was "extremely disturbed" by the contents of the letter and asked "is this the way we are treating our girls?"

It also sought assistance from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) who had done an audit of the shelter home following which the irregularities came to light. The audit report was submitted to the state government in April and said that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse.

Advocate Aparna Bhat has been made amicus curiae in the matter. The apex court is already looking into matters of orphanages and observation homes across the country.

The bench also asked whether any compensation has been given to the alleged victims. While Bhat said that compensation scheme was there in Bihar, the ASG said, "there may be a compensation scheme but what they (alleged victims) have lost, cannot be quantified".

Over 30 girls were allegedly raped at the shelter home run by one Brajesh Thakur, the chief of the state-funded NGO. An FIR was lodged against 11 people, including Thakur on 31 May.

In all, sexual abuse of 34 inmates out of 42 was confirmed in their medical examination, while two others who were unwell were yet to undergo medical tests. The TISS audit report stated that many girls at the shelter home had complained of sexual abuse. A special investigation team was formed to probe the complaints.

The NGO running the shelter home in Muzaffarpur was blacklisted and the girls were shifted to shelter homes in Patna and Madhubani. Women staff members of the shelter home and Thakur were among those who were arrested by the local police in connection with the case.

With inputs from PTI
TN Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal said the very act of the 18 rebel AIADMK MLAs meeting Governor Banwarilal Purohit challenging their disqualification is in itself a valid ground for disqualification.

Chennai: Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal on Monday said the very act of the 18 rebel AIADMK MLAs meeting with Governor Banwarilal Purohit challenging their disqualification is in itself a valid ground for disqualification.

He said since the party did not agree to their demand, they met the Governor to dissolve the government.

The speaker's counsel stated this in the Madras high court, which is hearing the disqualification case related to the 18 MLAs.

"They claim they met the governor only after the intra-party mechanism failed to redress their grievances, which means that they had left the party. The party had said 'no' to their demand, so they met the governor," senior counsel Aryama Sundaram said on behalf of the speaker.

The law is clear that the MLAs cannot approach the Governor for a change of chief minister, as the apex court in 2016 had said the legislators cannot approach the governor with such a demand, which means that their act was in contrary to law, Sundaram said.

On the MLAs claim that the speaker had violated the principles of natural justice by denying them permission to cross-examine Chief Minister K Palaniswami and party Whip S Rajendran, Sundaram said that instead of appearing before the speaker and producing evidence in support of their claims, they wanted to prove their case by cross-examining the CM and the whip.

Justice M Sundar in his order has observed that by going to the Governor they had approached the 'wrong forum'. "But ignorance of law cannot be excused even in case of a common citizen and here the petitioners are law-makers, I presume they know the law," he added.

Later, senior counsel CS Vaidyanathan commenced his arguments on behalf of the chief minister.

Recording the submission, the Supreme Court-appointed third judge Justice M Sathyanarayanan adjourned the plea to 7 August.

The high court had delivered a split verdict in the disqualification case.

While Chief Justice Indira Banerjee had upheld the disqualification, Justice M Sundar had quashed it.

The matter is now being heard by the third judge.
Academic activities at Manipur University have been under suspension for over two months as teachers, students and staff members there have been demanding the removal of Vice Chancellor AP Pandey over allegations of administrative negligence and financial irregularities.

Imphal: A clash had broken out between the protesting students and a group of people that demanded "resumption of classes" at Manipur University in Imphal West district, where prohibitory order under Section 144 CrPC had been in force since 25 July, a senior official said.

Police had to fire tear gas shells and mock bombs to disperse the mob, he said. "A group of people, with no possible affiliation, entered into a heated altercation with the students, who were holding silent protests at the Institute on Monnday under the aegis of Manipur University Students Union (MUSU). The altercation soon led to a clash, prompting police to take action," the official said.

Academic activities at the central university have been under suspension for over two months as teachers, students and staff members there have been demanding the removal of Vice Chancellor AP Pandey over allegations of administrative negligence and financial irregularities. The district administration, last week, issued a separate order preventing demonstrations in and around the university.

Despite the prohibitory orders, the agitators, after the altercation, tried to take out a rally from the main gate of the institute on Monday, the officer said. "The police officers had to fire tear gas shells and mock bombs to disperse the local people as well as the students, who turned violent after they were stopped from taking out the rally," he added.

A MUSU functionary said four students have sustained injuries in the clash, a claim refuted by the police officers. He also said that similar rallies were taken out on Monday at Senapati, Kangpok and Churachandpur districts by the students' bodies.

"In Senapati district, which has a predominant Naga population, at least 2000 protesters participated in a rally on Monday. At Churachandpur and Kangpok districts, too, the students took to the streets, seeking redressal of their grievances," the MUSU member added.

L Debananda, a spokesperson of Manipur University Teachers Association (MUTA), said the situation at the university changed for worse after the police last week dismantled a makeshift camp of the agitating bodies at the entrance gate of the university.

Additionally, the detention of a MUSU functionary over charges that he defaced the images of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and tore posters of his flagship programmes also infuriated the students, he claimed.

Deputy Chief Minister Y Joykumar had on Sunday appealed to the protesting students and teachers to cooperate with the HRD Ministry and the state government in restoring normalcy at the university. He also urged the agitators to keep faith in the administration, which has the "best interests of the students"

in mind.

Pandey was sent on a month's leave on 2 August on the advice of Union HRD Ministry. He was replaced by professor W Vishwanath Singh. An inquiry committee, constituted by the ministry last month, is currently looking into the allegations of negligence and irregularities
The former chief ministers suggestion to accept the voter list as a valid document of citizenship is seen as the continuation of the same politics around securing vote bank.

Even as the BJP braces itself to set the NRC as the narrative for 2019 Lok Sabha polls, former Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi on Tuesday termed the citizenship survey a failed exercise as it has not been able to identify any illegal Bangladeshi migrant till now. In an interview with Firstpost the former chief made a stunning claim saying that among the 40 lakh people who are out of the citizenship document, many of them are genuine citizens.

Many citizens did not find their names in the final draft NRC. Their names should have been included. They should not have been deprived. That is the reason I have said that the NRC exercise was a failed one, the three-time chief minister said.

As per the norms of the ongoing procedure of NRC (National Register of Citizens) update, a person's name is included in it only if he can prove his ancestry in Assam before the cut-off date of 1971. The person has to submit the prescribed documents to prove his ancestry and also his relationship with his ancestors.

When asked as to what was his suggestion to ensure that genuine citizens, found their names in the NRC even if they did not possess the requisite documents he said, It is an easy process. If the name of a person is included in the voter list he can be accommodated in the NRC. As long as his name is there in the voter list he is an Indian citizen.

The suggestion made by the former chief minister to include names of people in the NRC on the basis of voter list was rather surprising because voter list in Assam has been the main bone of contention that gave rise to the Assam Agitation in the early 80s of the last century and finally led to the updation of the NRC now.

The six-year-long Assam Agitation sparked off in 1979 when a suspicion was widely circulated that abnormally high number of voters had been observed in the voter list of Mangaldoi Lok Sabha constituency just before a by-poll.

The intense agitation was followed by the historic Assam Accord with the government of India and the agitating All Assam Students' Union as signatories in the presence of the then prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. The NRC updation process is a part of the Assam Accord which has identification of illegal immigrants in Assam as a key demand.

From the very heydays of the Assam Agitation, the Congress had been in a denial mode that there was any flaw in the voter list. In fact, this stance of the then ruling Congress, which was seen as an attempt to protect its vote bank, was one of the reasons why the Assam Movement went on so long claiming lives of thousands.

The former chief ministers suggestion to accept the voter list as a valid document of citizenship is seen as the continuation of the same politics around securing vote bank.

When pointed out to him that his suggestion if applied in reality may finally end up transferring names of illegal Bangladeshis from voter list to the NRC and thus providing them citizenship, he refused to concede with the flaw in his argument and reiterated that anyone with his or her name in the voter list is an Indian.

Ironically, Gogoi now claims that the NRC was his brainchild despite being one of the many Congress leaders who reportedly claimed that there are no illegal migrants in Assam.

An India Today report published in the year 2012 titled, Tarun Gogois U-turn: Not a single Bangladeshi national in Assam said that the then chief minister of Assam claimed that there was no illegal Bangladeshi in Assam while addressing a rally at Juria in Nagaon district.

When reminded of it he denied ever saying it. I did not say that. Otherwise, why would I have gone for NRC? he asked.

When asked what the future of the Congress party would be if a good number of people lose their voting rights after the NRC updation process is over, Gogoi claimed that the future of the Congress is very bright.

NRC is not the only issue in Assam. There are many other issues such as lack of employment opportunities and price rise of essential commodities etc., he said.

Interestingly, Gogoi played down party leader Ghulam Nabi Azads goof-up in addressing the NRC issue in the Rajya Sabha.

Our leadership collects information from various sources. Not everyone knows how to transfer the correct information to the leaders, he said.

In a wrong interpretation of the NRC updation procedure, Azad had said in the Rajya Sabha that the real number of people who are at risk of losing citizenship is more than 40 lakh because according to him the minors were not included in the list. But in reality, minors were also included in the list of 40 lakh.

The former chief minister, however, denied that the goof-up indicated any lack of coordination with the party. Coordination is always there, Gogoi said.
The Congress accused the BJP of highlighting dynastic politics only in the Opposition, not in its own ranks and also doing nothing to ensure the 'New India' and 'acche dine' it had promised.

The Congress finally seems to have found a counter to the dynasty jibe the Bharatiya Janata Party frequently makes against it. It also appears determined to bring the national focus back to real concerns such as unemployment, farmers' problems and the attack on individual freedom. At News18's 'Baithak' programme on Tuesday, senior Congress leaders Jyotiraditya Scindia and Sachin Pilot articulated the party's position on several matters emphatically.

On the dynasty question, Scindia sought to expose the BJP's dual standards, saying the party was silent on dynasts in its own ranks, which included his own relatives. Both leaders asked the ruling BJP to discuss its own achievements while in power rather than trying to deflect the attention to the past.

Here are the takeaways from their interaction:

On Congress' dynastic politics

Putting dynastic politics in perspective, Scindia, the Congress MP from Madhya Pradesh's Guna, said: "Why didn't the BJP or Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan ask my grandmother (early BJP stalwart Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia) the same question? Why don't they question my aunts Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje Scindia and Madhya Pradesh Cabinet minister Yashodhara Raje Scindia, who share the same Scindia surname? Why is this issue always raised for the Congress alone?"

Similarly, Pilot pointed out the unfairness of the children of people in other professions being able to follow their family's path without question, but politicians having to explain themselves every step of the way.

"Is it a disqualification that we (Jyotiraditya and Sachin) are the sons of illustrious Congress leaders Madhavrao Scindia and Rajesh Pilot?" the Rajasthan Congress president said. "If the sons of doctors, lawyers, media persons and industrialists can follow their fathers' footsteps, why can't we do the same? We were elected as MPs by the public not only because we are our fathers' sons but because we worked hard and gained the confidence of the electorate."

Both Congress leaders emphasised that politicians should not be assessed on the basis of lineage but on performance, track record and the work they do.

On forming coalitions ahead of the 2019 elections

The Congress leaders asserted that a united rainbow coalition will be formed ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The Congress, along with its alliance partners, will fight by taking up social and economic issues that currently concern the nation.

While Congress president Rahul Gandhi will be the party's face for the 2019 polls, the leader of the 'gathbandhan' will be decided after all alliance partners reach a consensus. "The entire Opposition will be united, will win the elections and come to power," Pilot emphasised.

On Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the BJP and poll issues

Scindia said that the Congress will contest the elections by bringing up issues of internal security, defence, agriculture, unemployment, women's safety, etc.

"Why have 'New India' and 'achche din', as promised by Modiji, failed to materialise even after four years?" he said. "Instead of giving the nation a New India, the BJP has only been criticising the Congress by saying nothing had been done in the past 70 years. It's like driving a car with eyes only on the rear-view mirror. It will lead to an accident. Does the BJP have answers to issues such as the rise in mob lynchings, women's safety and divisive politics?"

Pilot accused the BJP of following "exclusion politics", unlike the Congress, "which believes in inclusiveness". "The public is well aware of the allegations levelled by the BJP-RSS combine against the Congress," he asserted. "People will express their mandate in the Assembly elections to be held by the end of the year and in the 2019 general elections."

The two Congress leaders said that unlike the BJP, their party does not aim for a "BJP-mukt" (BJP-free) India. They claimed that despite Modi's influence, voters will reject the saffron party both at the Centre and in states on the basis of its poor performance.

"A strong Opposition is a sign of a healthy democracy. When we come to power in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, we'll want the BJP to be our Opposition in the Assembly. We have ideological differences with our political opponent, but we don't see them as our enemy," Scindia said.

On Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and bypolls

Both Congress leaders are confident that their party will win the Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan slated for later this year. "Whether it's Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan or Mizoram, instead of projecting any leader as the face of the party for the elections, our focus is on the people of these states," they said.

Scindia was candid in admitting that it was not Shivraj Singh Chouhan's performance but the failure of the Congress to put up a united Opposition that ensured a BJP government in Madhya Pradesh for 15 years. "In the past two years, eight to 10 top Congress leaders in the state joined hands and chalked out a campaign strategy. We'll fight united," he said.

Pilot pointed out that the BJP had lost nearly all the bypolls it had contested in the states where it is in power. "It has never happened before that a party in majority in a state has lost the bypolls. In Rajasthan alone, of 22 the by-elections held, the Congress won 20. The people's verdict will be reflected in the forthcoming elections," he added.

When asked whether Priyanka Gandhi Vadra would be part of the 2019 elections, the Congress leaders said, "It's her personal decision whether she joins. So far, she has limited herself to the Raebareli constituency. But both Rahul and Priyanka have been representing the Congress and working with dedication for the party," they said.
Posted on: August 7, 2018 3:29 PM

The Archbishop of Sydneys development agency, Anglican Aid, has launched an emergency appeal to help communities hit by a crippling drought in Western New South Wales. The state government says that 99 per cent of NSW is now in drought and it has launched its own emergency aid package. The Churchs aid efforts will provide resources to churches in north and western New South Wales, which are already dealing with requests for practical support for families impacted by what, in many places, is the worst drought since 1900.

The NSW Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, said this drought has quickly worsened across NSW because June and July were drier than expected. We said we would constantly reassess the conditions and relief measures, and the fact weve now increased our drought-relief package to over $1 billion [AUD, approximately 0.57 billion GBP] is a reflection of how serious this drought is, and how much we value the health and wellbeing of our farming and regional communities, Barilaro said.

The suddenness of this drought has caught many by surprise, the Vicar-General of the Armidale Diocese, Brian Kirk said. He added that the Churchs help will be much appreciated by rural families; and he asked Christians to pray for rain, for farming families and businesses in rural communities, for farmers to make wise decisions and that Christians will not lose their faith in God.

Clergy and church members are proactively offering assistance to farming families by providing food and clothing vouchers and visiting to provide practical and pastoral support, including free labour to assist with the feeding of stock, maintenance and everyday chores as well as providing free drought dinners.

Funds donated through the Anglican Aid appeal will be disbursed through the Anglican dioceses of Armidale and Bathurst.

The Archbishop of Sydney, Dr Glenn Davies, has written to churches across Sydney asking them to contribute funds.

We welcome the NSW Governments announcement this week of an additional $500 million in drought relief, but governments cannot do it all alone, the Archbishop said. We as Christians with the bounty of our resources should show the generosity of Spirit  generosity prompted by the Holy Spirit  to give to those in need.

However, we should also pray for rain. Our heavenly Father delights in his children bringing their requests before his throne, so I would also appreciate it if you could offer special prayers for rain this coming Sunday.

The Archbishop has suggested the following prayer:

Our heavenly Father, we acknowledge our ingratitude when we have taken your goodness for granted, when the heaven has poured forth rain and the earth has produced its fruit. Yet now we cry to you for help, as the drought in New South Wales deepens. Have mercy on our land; have mercy on the people of the land. May your bountiful hand send forth rain upon our parched earth. Fulfil your promises that while the earth remains, seedtime and harvest shall not cease, so that those in remote and rural areas may find relief from their distress and glorify your name for the provision of their needs. We ask this in the name of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.
The move follows the volunteers' convention held by the rebels in Bathinda on 2 August, when they dissolved the current organisation in the state and declared autonomy for the Aam Aadmi Party's Punjab unit.

Chandigarh: AAP dissidents in Punjab on Tuesday announced their own ad hoc political affairs committee (PAC), saying the panel will restructure the party's organisation and choose a new president for the state unit.

The move follows the volunteers' convention held by the rebels in Bathinda on 2 August, when they dissolved the current organisation in the state and declared autonomy for the Aam Aadmi Party's Punjab unit.

The dissident group  which claims to be made up of eight of the 20 MLAs in the state  is upset over the national AAP leadership's decision to replace Sukhpal Singh Khaira as Leader of Opposition in the Punjab Assembly.

The dissidents also traded barbs on Tuesday with prominent AAP MP Bhagwant Singh Mann who broke his silence over the rebellion in the state unit.

The Sangrur MP, who is also a well-known comedian, accused dissidents Sukhpal Khaira and Kanwar Sandhu of "emotionally blackmailing" party volunteers to "weaken" the AAP.

The dissidents' political affairs committee includes all the eight rebel MLAs and eight special invitees. They will also be part of an ad hoc state executive, Sandhu said.

The panel will supervise the reconstitution of the entire political structure of the state unit, including the appointment of the state president or convenor, he said.

It will also set up the party's structure at the district, Assembly constituency and the block levels.

Once this is done, the ad hoc PAC panel will stand dissolved, he said.

This is the first step towards the reconstitution of the AAP in Punjab after the party volunteers convention at Bathinda," the rebel MLA said.

The whole process will be in line with the concept of Swaraj as envisaged by the AAP's national convener Arvind Kejriwal, he added.

Meanwhile, Mann, the AAP MP from Sangrur, dared the dissidents to resign as MLAs and form a new outfit.

Reacting to his remarks, Khaira called the parliamentarian a "frustrated, dejected and depressed" leader.

Mann described Khaira and Sandhu as "shrewd manipulators", and said their "nefarious designs" to "weaken" the party would not succeed.

"When Khaira was made Leader of Opposition, he gave a bouquet of flowers to Arvind Kejriwal, Mann said in his first appearance before the media after Khaira's rebellion.

When he gets a position in the party it's democratic, when he loses his post then it is called an act of dictatorship," he said.

"Khaira had joined the party when it was already established. I had gone to streets and villages of Punjab for building the party. Khaira just lives on his Facebook post. He is an 'e-neta'," Mann said.

Khaira described Mann's allegations as "maliciously and utterly false, frivolous and concocted."

Khaira said Mann should have the courage to publicly admit the "secret deal" between AAP and the Congress at the cost of Punjabis, who had supported the MP and the party whole heartedly.

The dissident's panel includes Sukhpal Khaira (Bholath MLA) Kanwar Sandhu (Kharar), Nazar Singh Mansahia (Mansa), Jagdev Singh Kamalu ( Maur), Baldev Singh (Jaiton), Pirmal Singh Khalsa (Bhadaur), Jagtar Singh Jagga Hissowal (Raikot) and Jai Krishan Rodi ( Garhshankar).
DMK chief Karunanidhi was the first to introduce a tax-free status for films with Tamil titles. He had more friends in the industry than Jayalalithaa as he genuinely liked the company of actors, directors and producers.

In Tamil Nadu, politics and cinema are intertwined, and this hand-in-hand relationship has shaped the political landscape of the state.

The man who has been a guiding force in Tamil politics, as well as a writer in cinema, has been the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) patriarch, Muthuvel Karunanidhi, popularly known as Kalaignar.

Karunanidhi started his career in cinema as a popular writer for Tamil films in the late 1940s, with stories on history and social reforms that propagated the Dravidian movement. His 1952 film Parasakthi, with Sivaji Ganesan in the lead, was a classic that gave a boost to the Dravidian ideology in Tami Nadu. Parasakthi espoused ideologies of the Dravidian movement with elements that criticised Brahmanism, inviting the ire of Orthodox Hindus. The film, which was initially rejected by the censor board, firmly cemented DMK's strategy of using movies to propagate their political ideology.

"Kalaignar Karunanidhi actually started the trend of dialogue-oriented movies, which dominated the early landscape of Tamil commercial films such as Mandhri Kumari, Parasakthi, Manamagal, Manohara, Malaikkallan and many others," said G Dhananjayan, National Award-winning author, historian and Tamil film producer. "He saw cinema as a medium to spread awareness and create a social reform to bring about a change in the political situation. Of course, using cinema as a medium to propagate political ideology was started by one of DMK's founders, Perarasu Annadurai, through films like Velaikkari, but it was definitely his colleague and friend Karunanidhi who made it popular. The Karunanidhi-MGR combine worked very well to build DMK into a political force with presence in every nook and corner of Tamil Nadu."

If Stan Lee is known as the creative force behind Marvel superheroes such as Spider Man, Thor, Hulk and the X Men, Karunanidhi should be credited with the larger-than-life image of Tamil mass heroes.

MGR was the first actor to really become a mass hero, primarily through the scripts written by Karunanidhi. He was always projected as a virtuous do-gooder who stands with the downtrodden, loves his mother, has family values and upholds women's rights. MGR never endorsed alcohol in any of his films, which created an aura around him. This got DMK the all-important vote bank of women. The image of a Tamil mass hero has changed with times, but the MGR formula still rules, as seen by the success of Rajinikanth and later of Vijay and Ajith.

When MGR branched out with his own political party, the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), he kept Karunanidhi out of power for over a decade. In fact, the image Karunanidhi created for MGR was so strong that he could not make a dent in it and had to wait for the legendary actor to die before he could become chief minister again.

Karunanidhi used cinema and its superstars to his advantage. He had started the trend of punchline dialogues in Tamil movies. During the campaign for the 1996 Assembly elections, Jayalalithaa's unpopular and corrupt government was fighting the Karunanidhi-led DMK and the Tamil Maanila Congres headed by Moopanar. In a strategic move, Rajinikanth's statement during a television interview had changed the government. He had said: "If Jayalalithaa is voted back to power, even God cannot save Tamil Nadu."

Karunanidhi then came back to power with a landslide victory, and then began to cultivate all the new top stars in the Tamil industry. All the top stars invited Karunanidhi exclusively for special screenings. He would closely monitor developments in the industry. Jayalalithaa, on the other hand, never watched movies. No star could penetrate her inner circle and always kept a distance.

The DMK chief was the first to introduce the "tax-free" status for films with Tamil titles. Much later, Jayalalithaa also took a leaf out of his books and saw to it that film superstars, including Rajinikanth, gave her "due respect". Those who fell out with her, like actors Kamal Haasan and Vijay, had to face the music when their films Vishwaroopam and Thalaivaa were banned in the state at the time of their world release. Karunanidhi had more friends in the industry than Jayalalithaa as he genuinely liked the company of actors, directors and producers.

When Rajinikanth and Haasan joined politics, it was customary for them to pay a courtesy call to Karunanidhi and inform him of their decision. He has done more for the Tamil film industry than any other chief minister and will be remembered more as a friend.

Click here to follow news updates on Karunanidhi's demise.
BJP president Amit Shah tweeted Karunanidhi had an impressive life journey, starting as a screenwriter in Tamil film industry to being five-term chief minister of Tamil Nadu.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president M Karunanidhi passed away on Tuesday at 6.10 pm due to multiple organ failure. Chennai's Kauvery Hospital, where he was admitted, said in a statement: "Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond. We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India, and we share the grief of family members and fellow Tamilians worldwide."

Condolences started pouring in immediately, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeting: "We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised."

Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised. pic.twitter.com/jOZ3BOIZMj  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadus voice was effectively heard. pic.twitter.com/l7ypa1HJNC  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

I have had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi Ji on several occasions. His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered. pic.twitter.com/cbMiMPRy7l  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/7ZZQi9VEkm  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

Tamil Nadu chief minister Palaniswami said that the DMK chief contributed to the fields of politics, cinema and literature.

It is saddening to know about the demise of M #Karunanidhi . The DMK chief was someone who had contributed to the fields of politics,cinema and literature: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami statement pic.twitter.com/k2rZ8RoLGQ  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

President Ram Nath Kovind also condoled Karunanidhi's death and said, "Our country is poorer today."

Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers #PresidentKovind  President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 7, 2018

BJP president Amit Shah tweeted that Karunanidhi had had an impressive journey, starting as a screenwriter in the Tamil film industry to being a five-term chief minister of Tamil Nadu.

Anguished to learn about the demise of veteran politician, M Karunanidhi ji. He had an impressive life journey, starting as a screen writer in Tamil film industry to being five term Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. No one can forget his struggle during Emergency, imposed in 1975.  Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 7, 2018

Sharing his condolences, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said that "India has lost a great son".

Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight.#Karunanidhi  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 7, 2018

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal also condoled the death of the DMK chief.

A legend in his lifetime, counted amongst the giants of the political landscape of India #Kalaignar #Karunanidhi ji has left a void not just in his home state of Tamil Nadu but in the entire country that will never be filled. My condolences to his family & Tamils the world over.  Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) August 7, 2018

Feel v sad to hear about the demise of this great leader. May his soul rest in peace. Its a great loss to the nation. https://t.co/fymujgcmMI  Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) August 7, 2018

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor said Tamil politics would never be the same again.

News has just come in of the passing of Kalaignar Muthuvel Karunanidhi, a giant of Indian politics as CM of Tamil Nadu & a screenplay writer who gave voice to the Dravidian movement through his immortal dialogues. Tamil politics can never be the same again. RIP.  Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) August 7, 2018

Tamil actor-turned-politician Rajinikanth called it a "black day" in his life.

Today is a black day in my life, one which I can never forget as I lost my #Kalaignar. I pray for his soul: Rajinikanth on #Karunanidhi (file pic) pic.twitter.com/R8ociRQSsN  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee tweeted that India had lost one of its greatest sons.

Today India lost one of its greatest sons. And Tamil Nadu lost its father figure. Farewell @Kalaignar89. My deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu, @arivalayam, @mkstalin, @KanimozhiDMK and family. India mourns your loss  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) August 7, 2018

Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan tweeted: "Only once in a while you see a visionary leader like Karunanidhi, who championed the cause of social activism and federalism."

Only once in a while you see a visionary leader like @kalaignar89, who championed the cause of social activism and federalism. My respect to a giant soul who departed for heavenly abode. My condolences are with family and fans of Shri #Karunanidhi.  ShivrajSingh Chouhan (@ChouhanShivraj) August 7, 2018

Congress' Veerappa Moily said Karunanidhi had reached the common people of Tamil Nadu with his films.

#BREAKING -- #Karunanidhi reached the common people of Tamil Nadu with his films: Veerappa Moily, speaking about his compatriot. For Live Updates: https://t.co/SJYMI8x4bO pic.twitter.com/72pl8bawpp  News18 (@CNNnews18) August 7, 2018

Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said the party had lost an important friend.

Country has lost a great leader. Our condolences to the entire DMK family. Congress party has lost an important friend. A loss that will be difficult to recoup: Randeep Surjewala, Congress, on #Karunanidhi pic.twitter.com/EtqfplY6hQ  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

United States ambassador to India Kenneth Juster also extended his condolences to Karunanidhi's family and the people of Tamil Nadu.

On behalf of the United States Mission in India, I wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of former Chief Minister Muthuvel #Karunanidhi and the people of Tamil Nadu. He will be remembered for his years of public service to his state and the country at large.  Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) August 7, 2018

Preparations are underway at Chennai's Rajaji Hall, where Karunanidhi's body will be kept on Wednesday for public viewing for people to pay their last respects. The body will first be taken to his daughter Kanimozhi's CIT colony home and will later be shifted to the family's Gopalapuram home.

Click here to follow news updates on Karunanidhi's demise
The DMK that Karunanidhi nurtured for five decades as its president is coming to terms with the fact that it is time to bid farewell.

In 2009, when M Karunanidhi was chief minister of Tamil Nadu, the chairman and managing director of Neyveli Lignite Corporation was finding it tough to deal with the DMK-led union at the plant. Despite giving the highest performance bonus among all power corporations in the country, a strike had been threatened. It was certain to affect productivity.

Unable to make the union leader see reason, the chairman used the good offices of the chief secretary to meet the chief minister. Karunanidhi enquired about the trade union leader. The man was summoned to the phone and given a dressing down. "You have ten minutes to get out of Neyveli. Come immediately to Chennai and meet me," Karunanidhi ordered. "Katchi verra, Aatchi verra" (party is different, government is different).

On another occasion, during his term as chief minister between 1989 and 1991, Karunanidhi got word that a minister in his cabinet was using muscle power to prevent the registration of land by its owners. Karunanidhi immediately told the minister to back off. Despite criticism that the DMK was a party that encouraged political goondaism as an art form, these instances showed Karunanidhi wasn't willing to let his party's name be dragged into the mud.

But there were occasions when Karunanidhi made it a point to stand by his party men. Like he did when former Union telecom minister Andimuthu Raja was arrested in the 2G scam in February 2011. A day after the arrest, Karunanidhi spoke at a public meeting in Chennai. But instead of talking plain politics, Karunanidhi dug deep into his knowledge of Hindu mythology and his ability to weave a tale: The narrative of the oppressed Dravida and the famous baritone to drive home a point.

"Today, I will tell you the story of Dravida king Maveli,'' started Karunanidhi, describing him as a just ruler. He kept the audience spellbound, talking about how the gods became jealous of Maveli and decided to finish him off. "They sent Lord Vishnu disguised as a poor Brahmin boy to deceive the king and push him into the netherworld. Our Raja is like king Maveli who has been targeted because of his Dravida origins,'' Karunanidhi concluded. When pushed to the wall, Karunanidhi went back to his roots  central to the DMK ideology  and used the Tamizh and Dravida victimhood template to take on the "aggressors from the north''.

It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that Karunanidhi, along with his two arch political rivals MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa, defined Tamil Nadu politics for the past five decades. Karunanidhi was the DMK and the DMK was Karunanidhi. In fact, observers point out that Karunanidhi was the axis on which state politics revolved: There was a pro-Karunanidhi vote and an anti-Karunanidhi vote. He evoked love, respect, admiration and hate and resentment in equal measure.

The most senior politician of high standing in India, along with VS Achuthanandan of the CPM in Kerala, Karunanidhi's brand of Dravidian politics was also about ensuring that Tamil Nadu and the DMK mattered in the corridors of power in New Delhi. In fact, in this regard, MGR and Karunanidhi concurred. MGR always made it a point to be on the right side of the party in power in New Delhi. His motto: "Never fight with Delhi.' It is a tribute to Karunanidhi's abilities to make friends across the spectrum that the DMK figured in both the NDA and UPA governments at the Centre.

A common thread that runs among the voices of grief and sorrow outside the Kauvery Hospital is the connect each DMK activist feels with 'Kalaignar' (artist) as Karunanidhi was fondly and respectfully known as. Karunanidhi ensured he kept the party cadre motivated even when the DMK was out of power for 13 years (between 1976 and 1989). During his years as chief minister, he ensured the rank and file was kept in the loop.

Every year after the state budget, Karunanidhi prepared a summary of the financial exercise  minus the jargon  and sent it to all DMK district secretaries. Karunanidhi would tell them to educate the cadre about the budget and what the DMK government had done and spread the word among the rural folk. This was his way of making his cadre connect to the people and disseminating information. What Tamil Nadu has lost is a pragmatic leader who had a common sense approach to issues.

For the past ten days, Kauvery Hospital saw slogans of 'ezhundhu vaa Thalaiva ezhundhu vaa'' (get up leader and come out) and thirumbi vaa, thirumbi vaa (come back, come back). On Tuesday evening, the slogan changed to "poyi vaa, poyi vaa'' (go and come back). The DMK that Karunanidhi nurtured for five decades as its president is coming to terms with the fact that it is time to bid farewell.

Click here to follow news updates on Karunanidhi's demise
Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday addressed the Mahila Adhikar Sammelan and questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence over the atrocities committed against women.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday addressed the Mahila Adhikar Sammelan and questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence over the atrocities committed against women. Modi remains silent when crimes are committed against women in Uttar Pradesh and other BJP-ruled states, Rahul said in reference to the Deoria and Muzaffarpur shelter home rape case.

"The prime minister doesn't say anything on the incidents of rape. What happened against women in these four years is something which didn't happen even in last 70 years," he said.

The PM doesn't say anything on the incidents of rape. What happened against women in these four years is something which didn't happen even in last 70 years: Congress President Rahul Gandhi at Mahila Adhikar Sammelan #Delhi pic.twitter.com/oAZ0SgK9Bz  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Talking about the Women's Reservation Bill, he said that the BJP talks a lot about it, but it remains pending. "Congress told them clearly that the entire party will stand by them the day they decide to pass it. But the prime minister doesn't say anything," he added. If they fail to do so, the Congress will pass the Bill when it comes to power, Rahul said.

Taking a swipe at the government's campaign of 'beti bachao, beti padhao', he said that it was actually for "saving the daughters from BJP MLAs", an apparent reference to some BJP leaders accused in rape cases.

The Congress chief further said that his party's goal is to involve women in leadership positions. Pointing out the difference between his party and the RSS over the position of women, Rahul said that the RSS' doors are always closed for women. However, as the president of the Congress, his aim is to have 50 percent women in his party.

"We have seen the work done by women chief ministers like Sheila Dikshit who transformed Delhi. We need women at every level of leadership within and outside the Congress party," Rahul said.

He added that the Congress is going to create a space for women and he will ensure more women come to the fore in every Pradesh Congress Committee and at every level. He promised to bring women to the forefront of the party in framing policy, manifesto and strengthening the organisation.

However, he said that women will also have to earn their space in the party. Women will have to understand policies and compete with men to become a part of the party, he added.

He also asked the gathering to give him a list of women who can fight elections, who understand urbanisation and other policies. "Some women will be good at being a spokesperson, and some in policy-making, some in electoral politics. I want you to give me a list of such women and I will make sure they are given a chance and position in the party," he said.

Further hitting out at the BJP and the RSS, he said that there is not a single institution in the country which is not under attack and it is the duty of the Congress, particularly the women in the party, to defend those institutions.

The Congress president also expressed his pleasure over working with the Opposition to fight the ideology of the BJP. "We will defeat them and show them what the people of India think of them," he asserted.
Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday alleged that corruption, economic failure, incompetence and spread of social divisiveness have peaked under the Narendra Modi government and asked party MPs to provide an alternative.

New Delhi: Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday alleged that corruption, economic failure, incompetence and spread of social divisiveness have peaked under the Narendra Modi government and asked party MPs to provide an alternative.

Addressing the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) meeting in Parliament House, he said there is a rising tide of anger against the ruling dispensation and party MPs must work hard to give people an alternative to the bogus promise of Modiji's 'achche din'. People of India are looking up to the Congress and its allied parties to help remove the Modi government and replace it with one which will listen to them, understand their problems and provide solutions to help reduce poverty, unemployment and inequality in the country, the Congress president said.

There is a great responsibility that is being placed on all of us today, to win this historic struggle between the forces of democracy and social justice versus those of autocracy and social hierarchy, he said. Gandhi told Congress MPs that "we must ensure" that the forces of hate, division and violence that are trampling the Constitution are prevented from coming back to power. We are meeting here today at a time when the crisis of governance in India under the Narendra Modi government - marked by corruption, total economic failure, incompetence and spread of social divisiveness - is at its peak. There is a rising tide of anger against the current ruling dispensation that calls upon all of us to work very hard to give the people of India the alternative they deserve - an alternative to the bogus promise of Modiji's 'achche din', he said.

Adding an emotive touch, Gandhi asked members of the party to restore hope in the eyes of the Indian farmers and youth, give relief to ordinary families being crushed under the dual burden of household debt and rising prices of essential goods, ensure the safety of women and the protection of Dalits in order that they get justice. The Congress chief recalled Modi's remarks in 2014 when he was elected that India had been a slow 'passenger train' for 70 years after Independence and would become a sleek and shining 'magical train' destined for 'achhe din' under his guidance and rule. "Give me your votes, said Modiji, and 'I will take you on the best and most comfortable journey of your life'. Four years of Modi rule later, sadly, India today looks more like a train that is being driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver, who does not care what happens to the passengers he is responsible for," Gandhi said.

The people of India, he asserted, are demanding change and will no longer be fooled by Modi's magical train that is headed for a "bad accident". He noted that the Congress had helped in building the nation, constructed on the back of institutions designed to be the voice of the people. Since the RSS and the BJP have come to power, we have seen a systematic attack on every single one of our institutions. In modern India, these institutions were called temples of democracy and today RSS is intent in destroying every single one of them. Every single institution is being penetrated by their people and nature of institutions itself is being changed, Gandhi told Congress MPs.
Though Rajinder Kumar Dhawan never could aspire to be a king, he played the role of ruthless king-maker in the 70s and the 80s.

The obituary of a political leader, more often than not, runs on a familiar script -- rise and fall of a career. Rajinder Kumar Dhawan is no exception. In Indira Gandhis time, he rose like a meteoric and practically grounded to dust after her assassination.

In his stint as Rajya Sabha member during PV Narasimha Raos term, Dhawan could be seen loitering around Parliament and was a pale shadow of his past even though he briefly held a ministerial post in the government. Of course, Dhawans past was not so glorious but he could easily be termed as one of the most powerful chosen bureaucrat the country had ever seen. He was from the ranks and did not belong to the coveted civil services.

As a private secretary to Indira Gandhi till she assumed the post of prime minister, Dhawan was seen as her shadow. He teamed up with infamous Yashpal Kapur and wily chief minister of Madhya Pradesh Dwarka Prasad Mishra to ensure toppling of inconvenient governments. In later part of the 70s when a coalition of socialist parties substantially ousted the Congress from the larger part of Hindi-speaking states, Dhawan emerged as a key linkage between Indira Gandhi and those assigned the task of toppling state governments. Those were the times when Yashpal Kapur introduced the brief-case culture in Indian politics.

Dhawan was not only a willing and active collaborator in this political scheming but he later took centre-stage in this game of thrones. Though he never could aspire to be a king, he played the role of ruthless king-maker in the 70s and the 80s. For instance chief ministers of Uttar Pradesh like ND Tiwari, VP Singh or Bir Bahadur Singh were believed to be more deferential to Dhawan than any other central ministers in the cabinet. He clearly derived his power from his proximity to Indira Gandhi. Similarly, regional satraps of those times were seen making a determined attempt to be on the right side of Dhawan.

Dhawans influence in the government peaked during the Emergency when he found himself quite at ease with Sanjay Gandhi and his brand of politics. In all acts of indiscretion during the Emergency, Dhawan figured prominently and his role was examined through a judicial inquiry. In the post-Emergency phase, he faced a difficult time but bounced back with the return of Indira Gandhi. But this period did not last for long as Sanjay Gandhi died in a plane crash and Indira Gandhi created a Frankenstein in the form of insurgency in Punjab led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. This led to the ultimate assassination of Indira Gandhi on 31 October, 1984. Dhawan accompanied Indira Gandhi when she was fired upon by the two Sikh security guards.

Political careers mostly end in failure. That was exactly what had happened with Dhawan. Even in the judicial inquiry that followed Indira Gandhis assassination, he found himself in the dock. Rajiv Gandhi was not particularly fond of him and virtually marginalised him by removing his crucial political work. He was completely marginalised for a long time till he recovered some lost political ground in the 90s when he was brought in as Rajya Sabha member and later elevated as minister of state in the PV Narasimha Rao government. Despite his elevation as a minister in the government, Dhawan could not regain the stature and clout which he enjoyed during Indira Gandhis time. In the Congress circle, he had practically become a relic of a past that is unworthy of being recalled. For a new generation of Congress leaders, his death would signify nothing. But old-timers like Pranab Mukherjee know it too well that in Dhawans passing, it is curtains for an era.
The contest for the post of deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha between the National Democratic Alliance and the Opposition appeared to be heading for a showdown in the 9 August election with the BJP-led ruling lacking a majority in the Upper House and the Opposition appearing keen to put up a fight.

Hyderabad: The contest for the post of deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha between the National Democratic Alliance and the Opposition appeared to be heading for a showdown in the 9 August election with the BJP-led ruling lacking a majority in the Upper House and the Opposition appearing keen to put up a fight.

On Monday, JD(U) president Nitish Kumar reached out to Telangana chief minister K Chandrashekar Rao to request support for his party lawmaker and National Democratic Alliance candidate Harivansh Narayan Singh. The Bihar chief minister rang up the Telangana Rashtra Samithi president this morning and made the request, according to Rao's office. Rao told him he would discuss the issue with his party colleagues and take a final decision, it said.

According to various reports citing Opposition sources, DMK's Tiruchi Siva and NCP's Vandana Chavan are front-runners for the post.

The NDA candidate

Harivansh Narayan Singh

According to a report in NDTV, Harivansh Narayan Singh has been a Rajya Sabha member of the Janata Dal(United) since 2014. Singh, 62, is the former editor-in-chief of Hindi daily Prabhat Khabar, which for years championed the cause of special category status for Bihar, a key demand of Nitish Kumar. A first-time parliamentarian, Harivansh Singh was given a seat in the Rajya Sabha by Nitish Kumar's party in 2014 and has a tenure till 2020. He is described as a candidate who has friends across the political spectrum - an important qualification to manage the House, according to the report. Singh was earlier PRO for former prime minister Chandrashekhar.

Opposition front-runners

Vandana Chavan

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MP Vandana Chavan is the likely Opposition favourite for the number two post in the Rajya Sabha. According to a report in the Hindustan Times, the 57-year-old Chavan was recently re-elected to the Upper House from Maharashtra. She has been a member of Rajya Sabha since 2012. Chavans sister Vinita was married to Ashok Kamte, one of the officers who died fighting 26/11 terrorists, according to the report.

KTS Tulsi

According to a report in The Indian Express, KTS Tulsi was nominated to the Rajya Sabha in 2014. Tulsi has several high-profile clients, including former Congress president Sonia Gandhis son-in-law Robert Vadra, and is known for successfully taking on the Ansals on behalf of the victims of the Uphaar Cinema tragedy in Delhi. Tulsi was born in 1947 in Punjab's Hoshiarpur. He graduated in Political Science from Panjab University and completed his Bachelors in Law in 1971. In the 1980s, he took to criminal law, according to the report. Tulsi is the former solicitor-general of India.

Tiruchi Siva

DMK's Tiruchi Siva has had a controversial past. According to a report in The Times of India, in April 2017, Siva's son accused him of trying to separate him from his Christian wife by indirectly intimidating her and threatening her mother with dire consequences. Sivas son Surya Manivannan, 27, alleged that unknown persons threatened his wife and her mother over the phone to leave Surya. He alleged that the calls were made at Siva's behest, who allegedly opposed the inter-religious marriage.

According to this Firstpost piece, Siva was also in the news in August 2016 after Sasikala thrashed him at the security check at IGI airport in New Delhi. Sasikala claimed that Siva had exceeded all limits in criticising Amma and her government. Interestingly, while this incident took place in full public view, neither of them complained to the police. Siva missed that flight, which he was supposed to take with Sasikala for Chennai and took another flight, according to the report.

Support of regional parties to prove crucial

The support of regional parties such as the AIADMK, BJD, TRS and YSR Congress is crucial. The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since June following the retirement of PJ Kurien, who had been elected to the Upper House of Parliament on a Congress ticket from Kerala.

The strength of Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in the full House. The BJP is the largest party in the house with 73 members. Its allies JD(U), Shiv Sena, Akali Dal have six, three and three members, respectively.

Besides the nominated and independent members affiliated to it, the BJP is banking on the support of 13, nine, six and two members of the AIADMK, BJD, TRS, YSR Congress respectively, its floor managers said. If all four parties support the NDA candidate, then the numbers add up to 126.

However, if parties like BJD or TRS abstain from voting, then things will become more precarious for the ruling alliance. Both these parties had abstained during a vote on the recent motion of no-confidence against the government in the Lok Sabha while the AIADMK had voted with the treasury benches.

The BJP is hoping to get the support of four of the six independent members and three of the four nominated members. The Congress has 50 members.

With inputs from PTI
Senior counsel for DMK P Wilson and Saravanan went to acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court Huluvadi G Ramesh's residence and sought permission to move an urgent motion.

Chennai: Hours after the government announced its inability to allot a space on the Marina beach for burial of DMK leader Karunanidhi, the party moved the Madras High Court challenging its decision.

Senior counsel for DMK P Wilson and Saravanan went to acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court Huluvadi G Ramesh's residence and sought permission to move an urgent motion.

The acting chief justice directed them to serve notice on the advocate general, saying he would hear the case at 10.30 pm at his residence.

Earlier, DMK working president MK Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor CN Annadurai at the Marina.

A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications."

Hence, the government is prepared to allot a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

Click here to follow latest updates on Karunanidhi's death
Trinamool Congress member Sugata Bose asked the government to observe the 75th anniversary of the Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj) across the country.

New Delhi: Trinamool Congress member Sugata Bose on Tuesday asked the government to observe the 75th anniversary of the Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj) across the country.

Raising the issue during the Zero Hour in the Lok Sabha, he also urged the External Affairs Ministry to ask the missions abroad, especially in the Asian countries where Subhash Chandra Bose had visited to set up the force, to hold events to commemorate the event.

Bose, a grandnephew of Netaji, also urged Speaker Sumitra Mahajan to make a mention of it during the ongoing session.

The younger generation should know how Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose had united the people from different religious and regional backgrounds, he said.

Among other issues, BJP's Sharad Tripathi spoke of the drive to clean the Ganga and lamented that the work has not gathered pace because of sewerage and other waste getting deposited in the river.

"Despite spending thousands of crores, our rivers have not been cleaned," he said, while batting for setting up of sewerage treatment plants to treat waste flowing into Ganga and other rivers.

Raghu Sharma of the Congress accused Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje of misusing the government machinery for political purposes during her 'Rajasthan Gaurav Yatra' through the poll-bound state.

BJP's Bharat Singh said Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had promised a bottling plant in Balia in Uttar Pradesh and demanded that it should be set up soon.

Meenakshi Lekhi (BJP) expressed concern over the use of plastic and demanded that aerated drinks should be sold only in glass bottles or metal cans.

She also said a "buyback" option should be available so that those buying dairy products and other goods, which are sold in plastic package, should sell the plastic to the suppliers.

Congress member Sunil Kumar Jakhar alleged a scam saying oil marketing companies were collecting caste, religion and other details of oil pump employees and lorry drivers. He claimed this was being done due to the Lok Sabha polls next year.
Posted on: August 7, 2018 1:04 PM

Archbishop John Davies will use an appearance at the National Eisteddfod, the annual Welsh cultural festival, tomorrow (Wednesday) to highlight increasing levels of child poverty in the country. The Church in Wales will lead the event alongside the Childrens Commissioner for Wales as part of a week of activities organised by Cytun, the ecumenical group Churches Together in Wales, at the Eisteddfod.

The Church in Wales says that an estimated 200,000 children are living in poverty in Wales today, with cutbacks in benefits and public funding for family services significantly adding to the problem. The Welsh Government recently admitted that its target of ending child poverty by 2020 will not be reached.

Tomorrows event at the office of the Welsh Council for Voluntary Action in Cardiff will involve a panel discussion introduced by Archbishop John. The discussion will highlight the issue and provide an opportunity for people to explore what can be done to help those in need, the Church in Wales said.

The event will begin with an interview by the Bishop of Bangor, Andy John, with the Childrens Commissioner for Wales, Dr Sally Holland, about her research on childhood poverty.

The panel includes a number of people involved in church projects directly helping families in poverty, including Catherine Haynes, childrens adviser for the Diocese of Monmouth. Her parish runs a Holiday Hunger scheme at the local Ty Price centre to provide packed lunches for children at a summer play scheme in Monmouth.

Other panellists are Cherrie Bija, who supports the Diocese of Swansea and Brecons Faith in Families initiative to support families in disadvantaged parts of Swansea; Samantha Duggan, who works with Plant Dewi, a childrens project run by the Diocese of St Davids to help young parents. The scheme includes providing Baby Bundle packs of essential items for new parents; and another Plant Dewi worker, Sian Cheeseman, who works with the Ty Mair family centre in Burry Port.

Poverty in childhood is an issue the Church is acutely aware of due to the work of our family centres, community projects, food banks, holiday hunger schemes and our collaboration with the Childrens Society, Archbishop John said. We see at first-hand how poverty is affecting children across Wales and how the demand for these services continues to increase.

We fear many children in Wales are having their childhood blighted by poverty - a 'poor upbringing'. We welcome this opportunity to highlight our concerns and help inform the Childrens Commissioners work this year on child poverty.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Childrens Commissioner, Dr Sally Holland, said, Without a doubt, child poverty is the biggest challenge facing Welsh Government today. We know the scale of the problem, and we know that those families in the most vulnerable positions need more help.

Churches do some important work to support families who are living in poverty, including food banks, and organising free packed lunches for children at holiday clubs over the summer to replace their free school meals and ensure they dont go hungry. These are some examples of the initiatives that can really make a difference to the most vulnerable families.

This year, my office will be meeting with children, parents and professionals from across Wales to hear what they think needs to change, and what extra support they need. Well then be recommending concrete steps that Welsh Government and local authorities can take to reduce the impact of poverty on the most vulnerable children and their families.
Reuters

Apple Inc, Alphabet Incs, YouTube, Facebook Inc and Spotify all took down podcasts and channels from US conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, saying on 6 August that the Infowars author had broken community standards.

The sweeping moves are the broadest actions yet by internet companies that previously have suspended or removed some of the conspiracy-driven content produced by Infowars.

Since founding Infowars in 1999, Jones has built a vast audience. Among the theories he has promoted is that the 11 September 2001, attacks on New York and Washington were staged by the government.

Facebook said it removed Alex Jones pages for glorifying violence, which violates our graphic violence policy and using dehumanizing language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies.

The Infowars app remained available on the app stores hosted by Apple and Alphabets Google Play, however, while Twitter Inc said that Infowars accounts were not currently in violation of its rules.

Alphabet and Apple did not immediately respond to questions about why the app remained available on their platforms.

Infowars editor-at-large Paul Joseph Watson said in a tweet that the broad take-downs amounted to censorship and were intended to help Democrats in congressional elections due in November.

Infowars is widely credited with having played a key role in electing Donald Trump. By banning Infowars, big tech is engaging in election meddling just three months before crucial mid-terms, Watson wrote on the Infowars website.

Neither Jones nor a representative for Infowars was available for additional comment. None of the companies that took down the content commented on whether they had coordinated their actions.

The Alex Jones Channel on YouTube on 6 August displayed a banner saying the account had been terminated for violating community guidelines, and a spokesperson added by email that repeated violation of policies such as those prohibiting hate speech and harassment led to the termination of accounts.

Apple deleted most Infowars podcasts and a spokeswoman said in a statement that the company does not tolerate hate speech and publishes guidelines that developers and publishers must follow.

Podcasts that violate these guidelines are removed from our directory making them no longer searchable or available for download or streaming, Apple said in a statement. We believe in representing a wide range of views, so long as people are respectful to those with differing opinions.

Only one programme provided by Infowars, RealNews with David Knight, remained on Apples podcasts platforms on Monday. BuzzFeed earlier reported that Apple had removed the library for five of Joness six Infowars podcasts, including the shows War Room and the daily The Alex Jones Show.

Twitter said in an email that content posted to other websites often was not put on Twitter and that tweets from Infowars typically were replied to by people rebutting and challenging it. If Infowars violates Twitter rules in the future, it will take action, it added.

Music and podcast company Spotify said on Monday that it had now removed all of Joness Infowars programs from its platform, after last week removing some programs.

A representative said that Spotify took seriously reports of hate content. Due to repeated violations of Spotifys prohibited content policies, The Alex Jones Show has lost access to the Spotify platform, the representative said.

In late July, Facebook had suspended Joness personal profile for 30 days for what the company said was bullying and hate speech.

Jones has also promoted a theory that the 2012 Sandy Hook school massacre was faked by left-wing forces to promote gun control. The shooting left 26 children and adults dead at a Connecticut elementary school.

He is being sued in Texas by two Sandy Hook parents, seeking at least $1 million, claiming that they have been the subject of harassment driven by his programmes.
Press Trust of India

Tech Mahindra expects to launch about five pilot projects on 5G services by next month and execute big projects on the new generation network from next financial year onwards, said a top executive of the IT giant.

CP Gurnani, CEO and managing director of Tech Mahindra also said the company hopes to garner over $100 million as revenues from Blockchain Technology during the current fiscal.

"My personal belief is that by September we would launch. Tech Mahindra will be launching its complete service offerings along with its partners.

We expect within this financial year to do about five 5G trials and hopefully in the financial year, starting April 1 2019, we will be executing some big projects," he told PTI during his recent visit to the city.

A senior official of Tech Mahindra had earlier said they had set up an innovation lab powered by Intel architecture to accelerate 5G rollout in India.

The Centre constituted a high-level committee last year, comprising secretaries of the telecom department, IT and electronics ministry and science and technology department, to work out the vision, mission and goals for India's 5G ambitions and prepare a roadmap and action plan for the same.

Telecom industry body COAI has said an auction of spectrum for 5G services should happen only around the second half of 2019 as it would offer telcos better visibility into market dynamics and potential revenue streams of the next-generation mobile services.

"My (Tech Mahindra's) appetite is very very large and the opportunity of 5G is very large," Gurnani said.

Tech Mahindra has been offering services to its clients using Blockchain Technology, the official said, adding that they started focusing on the emerging technology for the past three years and implemented solutions, mainly for Government and banking customers.

"It started happening. By the year end, I would think is that it will become significant ( revenues) by my standards. That means I am talking of $100 million plus. By somebody else's standards, it may not be significant... We are in 90 plus countries."

Tech Mahindra is going to spend a lot of its energy and time on skill development. We don't have an India based platform for Blockchain. China has Neo. Korea has their own. Why would not we have our own?," he said when asked about the expected revenues through Blockchain Technology.

He said Tech Mahindra has a Research and Development team of about 150 engineers based out of Hyderabad and Bangalore.

The IT major recently said it would invest CAD 100 million over the next five years on a Centre of Excellence based out of Toronto, which would work on major technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain.

It also signed a MoU with the Telangana government for setting up India's first 'Blockchain district' in the State.
Rishiraj Bhagawati and Ankit Vengurlekar

In the last week of June, amid the political blame game between the Centre and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over permission to cut over 14,000 trees in south Delhi, some 1,500 people participated in what came to be known as Delhis own Chipko movement.

The ruling AAP was up in arms against the Union government, alleging that around 17,000 trees will be felled for the redevelopment plan. But Union minister Harsh Vardhan said the area where the trees were to be felled was a "non-forest area" and the Forest Department of the Government of India had nothing to do with it.

Luckily, the citizens of Delhi would have none of this confusion and took matters into their own hands  quite literally. Led by environmental activists, residents hugged the trees that were to be felled, tied green ribbons around them and shouted slogans against the proposed move. They also carried placards urging the government to take measures to save trees. This was Delhi's tribute to what Sunderlal Bahuguna did in the 1970s.

The protests came up around government colonies in South Delhi which needed to be redeveloped, environmentalist Neha Sinha explained. "These are places where government officers usually stay. So the first thing to be noted is that people are protesting against felling of trees at places where they themselves dont stay  its a feeling towards the citys trees."

Soon after the protests, the Delhi High Court and the National Green Tribunal (NGT) passed orders asking for a stay on the felling of trees. "I wouldnt call it a victory yet because its just a stay in the court," she said.

Conflicting priorities

Amid the decision to fell the thousands of trees, the government tried to pacify activists by promising to plant saplings around those areas. But that is far from a sustainable solution, Sinha says. "A sapling cannot do what a mature tree can. It takes 20-25 years for the sapling to become a tree and give us the services that we really need."

Dr Ravi Kumar Kunchala, assistant professor in the Centre for Atmospheric Sciences in IIT Delhi, echoed her concern. "Saplings of course take tens of years to be able to support the environmental needs of a city like Delhi, which is a land-locked area. But with the growing pace of infrastructural development that we are witnessing in the city, we have to find alternative solutions to benefit everyone."

Kunchala insists that we take the "bigger picture" into consideration, as infrastructural projects are not going to stop in major cities. "If the felling of trees comes to be absolutely necessary for infrastructural projects in the city, like building of metro networks or bridges, government policies will have to take care of compensating the damage done here through other activities.

"The government will have to invest heavily in establishing technologies that can reduce the emissions of industries, vehicles and factories in the region. It will also have to take lessons from other countries which surge ahead with massive infrastructural projects without having the environment to take a toll," he told tech2.

One such solution, he said, is switching to cleaner sources of energy through "structural changes in policy making" in India. "It is high time our focus shifts to renewable energy. If the government wants to cut trees to build bridges, it has to ensure the damage done is compensated by such practices."

Reality check

But before we attempt the structural changes, we must acknowledge where we stand with respect to our forests and the environment at large. According to the State of Forest Report 2017 released by the government in February this year, Indias total forest cover increased by 0.94 percent in the last two years  7,01,673 square kilometers to 7,08,273 square kilometres since its last assessment in 2015. However, such figures can be misleading, experts point out.

Our forest cover hasnt actually gone up, Sinha says, adding that the report depends on satellite imagery and hence is not able to penetrate everywhere. "A lot tea and coffee estates also get counted as forests, which are actually commercial utilisation of plans, and not forests. There have been scientific papers written that critique the Forest Survey of India's methods. There were a lot of trees cut in the last one year alone, so it is absolutely not possible for forest cover to actually increase," she said.

Another environment expert also suggested that the numbers in the report cannot be believed at face value. "The 2015 assessment covered 589 districts of the country, while the new assessment covers 633 districts. Since the assessment area is not constant and figures from other parameters are not so encouraging, we should restrain from celebrating the forest cover increase," Ajay Kumar Saxena from the Centre for Science and Environment, said in an interview.

'We cannot buy oxygen'

In such uncertain times, the culture of protests against "eco-unfriendly" government measures is still inspiring. "Weve seen in Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru how citizens have come out in protests against the cutting of trees. Despite that, trees get cut at night, they get cut and carried away. It happens all the time. But these movements have been amazing, in the sense that people are actually patrolling the streets, day and night," Sinha said.

On the other hand, Kunchala insists we will have to change our lifestyles sooner or later to environmentally friendly ways. "With the increasing population and high demand for jobs, these infrastructure projects are unlikely to stop. The only way forward is switching to sustainable practices on a larger scale. They may not yield results in a short window, but we will survive in the long run."

"We cannot buy oxygen. We may buy more air filters and air conditioners in our houses, but we still need to breathe," Sinha said.

tech2 attempted to contact representatives in the Department of Environment, Government of Delhi, as well as Environment Minister Imran Hussain, but both attempts were unsuccessful.
BRASILIA (Reuters) - A Brazilian judge has ordered the border crossing from Venezuela closed to Venezuelan immigrants fleeing their country's economic and political turmoil but the border remained open on Monday pending an appeal. Hundreds of Venezuelans continued to walk across into Brazil, a border official said. Federal judge Helder Barreto on Sunday ordered the border closed until the frontier state of Roraima can create 'humanitarian' conditions to receive the massive and disorderly influx

BRASILIA (Reuters) - A Brazilian judge has ordered the border crossing from Venezuela closed to Venezuelan immigrants fleeing their country's economic and political turmoil but the border remained open on Monday pending an appeal.

Hundreds of Venezuelans continued to walk across into Brazil, a border official said.

Federal judge Helder Barreto on Sunday ordered the border closed until the frontier state of Roraima can create "humanitarian" conditions to receive the massive and disorderly influx. But the injunction has not gone into effect yet pending an appeal by Brazilian government lawyers.

Over the last three years, tens of thousands of Venezuelans have arrived in Roraima, overwhelming social services and causing a humanitarian crisis with families sleeping in the streets amid rising crime and prostitution.

The state government on Thursday decreed Venezuelans seeking medical and other social services in Roraima would have to present a valid passport which many of the refugees do not have.

Barreto ruled that such a measure was "discriminatory" and countered Brazilian laws. He suspended a provision that would allow the deportation or expulsion of Venezuelan immigrants who committed illegal acts and ordered the vaccination of those admitted to Brazil.

He ordered, however, the suspension of the entry of Venezuelans into Roraima until the state can reach an equilibrium between the arrival of migrants and their exit to other parts of Brazil.

Following recommendations by the U.N. refugee agency UNHCR, the Brazilian Air Force began air-lifting Venezuelan immigrants from Roraima for resettlement in other cities of Brazil.

To date, some 820 Venezuelans have been flown out of Boa Vista, the state capital, by the Air Force. But state officials say more than 500 Venezuelans cross into Brazil every day on average and many stay in Roraima because they cannot afford to move on.

(Reporting by Anthony Boadle; Editing by Sandra Maler)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
KINSHASA (Reuters) - The candidate to represent Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila's ruling coalition in a presidential election in December will be announced 'in the coming hours', the government spokesman said on Tuesday. Spokesman Lambert Mende's statement followed a meeting between Kabila and coalition members at his farm outside the capital Kinshasa. Candidates have until Wednesday afternoon to register with the national electoral commission.

KINSHASA (Reuters) - The candidate to represent Democratic Republic of Congo President Joseph Kabila's ruling coalition in a presidential election in December will be announced "in the coming hours", the government spokesman said on Tuesday.

Spokesman Lambert Mende's statement followed a meeting between Kabila and coalition members at his farm outside the capital Kinshasa. Candidates have until Wednesday afternoon to register with the national electoral commission.

Kabila, in power since 2001, is barred by term limits from running for re-election but has refused to commit publicly to not standing. That has raised fears he might do so anyway, which risks throwing the volatile central African country into chaos.

Security forces have killed dozens of protesters since Kabila refused to quit power at the end of mandate in December 2016, saying the government was not yet prepared to hold the election to succeed him. Militia violence in the eastern borderlands with Rwanda and Uganda has also risen.

Western powers and Congo's neighbours fear even worse violence across the country if Kabila digs in and runs, with memories still fresh of civil wars around the turn of the century that killed millions, most from hunger and disease.

Kabila met on Tuesday afternoon with members of his electoral coalition, the Common Front for Congo (FCC), at his farm in the village of Kingakati, about 80 km (50 miles) outside the Kinshasa.

Participants in the meeting included Mende, Commerce Minister Jean-Lucien Bussa, Planning Minister Modeste Bahati and the president of the lower house of parliament, Aubin Minaku.

Minaku has been tipped as one of the candidates to emerge as Kabila's chosen successor, as has former prime minister Augustin Matata Ponyo.

Several opposition candidates have also registered their candidacies for the Dec. 23 vote. They include former vice president Jean-Pierre Bemba, who was recently acquitted of war crimes at the International Criminal Court, and Vital Kamerhe, who finished third in the 2011 election.

On Tuesday, Felix Tshisekedi, the president of Congo's largest opposition party, the UDPS, and son of the late opposition icon Etienne Tshisekedi, filed his candidacy at the electoral commission headquarters in Kinshasa.

As Tshisekdi drove to the headquarters, clashes briefly broke out between supporters of his, who threw rocks, and police officers, who riposted with volleys of teargas, witnesses said.

Tryphon Kin-Kiey, a Kabila ally who founded a political party called "Kabila Desire", also submitted his candidacy on Tuesday as an independent, a move that was quickly disavowed by members of his political coalition.

(Reporting by Patient Ligodi and Benoit Nyemba; Writing by Aaron Ross; Editing by Tim Cocks and Angus MacSwan)

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By Dan Whitcomb (Reuters) - Deputies who raided a squalid compound surrounded by tires and an earthen berm in rural New Mexico have arrested two men and taken 11 children into protective custody for their own health and safety, the sheriff said.

By Dan Whitcomb

(Reuters) - Deputies who raided a squalid compound surrounded by tires and an earthen berm in rural New Mexico have arrested two men and taken 11 children into protective custody for their own health and safety, the sheriff said.

Three women believed to be the children's mothers also were detained during last week's sweep, which followed a two-month investigation by authorities in New Mexico and Georgia as well as the FBI, Taos County Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe said in a statement on the department's Facebook page.

Hogrefe said in the statement that Siraj Wahhaj, 39, was taken into custody on a warrant accusing him of abducting his 3-year-old son. Lucan Morton was arrested on suspicion of harbouring a fugitive.

The missing boy was not found at the compound outside the unincorporated community of Amalia, New Mexico, near the Colorado state line, Hogrefe said, but "it is reasonably believed he was there a few weeks ago."

Hogrefe said Wahhaj was armed with an AR15-style rifle and four loaded pistols when he was taken into custody. It was not immediately clear if the two suspects, who are both from Clayton County, Georgia, had retained criminal defence attorneys.

The sheriff said the compound was made up of a small travel trailer buried in the ground and covered with a tarp, providing no running water, plumbing or electricity.

"The only food we saw were a few potatoes and a box of rice in the filthy trailer," Hogrefe said. "But what was most surprising, and heartbreaking was when the team located a total of five adults and 11 children that looked like third world country refugees not only with no food or fresh water, but with no shoes, personal hygiene and basically dirty rags for clothing."

(Reporting by Dan Whitcomb; Editing by Bill Trott)

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By Dan Whitcomb LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Crews battling the second-largest wildfire ever recorded in California fought on Monday to keep flames from descending a ridge into foothill communities, as reinforcements arrived from as far away as Alaska.

By Dan Whitcomb

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Crews battling the second-largest wildfire ever recorded in California fought on Monday to keep flames from descending a ridge into foothill communities, as reinforcements arrived from as far away as Alaska.

The Mendocino Complex Fire, made up of two separate conflagrations that merged at the southern tip of the Mendocino National Forest, had burned 273,664 acres (110,748 hectares) as of Monday morning and was still growing, on track to potentially become the largest in state history.

"Unfortunately, they're not going to get a break anytime soon," National Weather Service meteorologist Brian Hurley said of firefighters who had cut buffer lines around 30 percent of the blaze as of Monday. "It's pretty doggone hot and dry, and it's going to stay that way."

Hurley said some temperatures could reach 110 degrees (43 Celsius) in Northern California over the next few days with 15-mile-per-hour (24 kph) winds fanning the flames. Environmentalists and some politicians say the uptick in the intensity of the state's wildfire season may be linked in part to climate change.

The Mendocino Complex, which has destroyed 75 homes and forced thousands to flee, is the largest of eight major wildfires burning out of control across California, prompting U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday to declare a "major disaster" in the state.

"California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized," Trump wrote on Twitter.

A total of nearly 3,000 people were fighting the flames, including firefighters from Arizona, Washington and Alaska.

Some 200 soldiers from the 14th Brigade Engineer Battalion at Joint Base Lewis-McChord near Tacoma, Washington, have also been called in to help in one of the most destructive fire seasons on record.

On Sunday, 140 fire managers and specialists from Australia and New Zealand underwent special training and were outfitted with safety gear at the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise before being deployed to battle fires in the Pacific Northwest and California.

Crews battling the Mendocino Complex on Monday were focusing on keeping flames from breaking through fire lines on a ridge above the foothill communities of Nice, Lucerne, Glen Haven, and Clearlake Oaks, said Tricia Austin of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

"If it were to be carried outside of those lines they have on the ridge, it could sweep down into those communities, that's what we're trying to prevent," Austin said.

Elsewhere in California the two-week-old Carr Fire on Saturday claimed the life of 21-year-old apprentice lineman Jay Ayeta, who died when his vehicle crashed as he worked with crews in dangerous terrain in Shasta County, according to PG&E corporation.

He was the seventh person killed in that blaze, which has scorched more than 160,000 acres (64,750 hectares) in the scenic Shasta-Trinity region north of Sacramento.

(Reporting by Rich McKay in Atlanta, Jonathan Allen in New York, Laura Zuckerman in Pinedale, Wyoming and Dan Whitcomb in Los Angeles; Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Sandra Maler)

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A global human rights group has accused authorities in Bangladesh of using abusive measures in handling a student-led protest calling for safer roads.

Dhaka: A global human rights group has accused authorities in Bangladesh of using abusive measures in handling a student-led protest calling for safer roads.

New York-based Human Rights Watch said in a statement on Tuesday that ruling party men armed with sticks and machetes have swooped in on protesters and journalists since the students took to the streets on 29 July after two students were killed in a road accident in Dhaka. Several journalists, including an Associated Press photographer, were attacked. Human Rights Watch also criticized the arrest of a renowned photographer on charges of spreading false information about the protest.

The protests grew in July, becoming a major embarrassment to the government, which faces a general election later in 2018.
Anita Kumar has become the first Indian-American to be elected to the board of the White House Correspondents Association (WHCA)

Washington: Anita Kumar has become the first Indian-American to be elected to the board of the White House Correspondents Association (WHCA), more than a century-old apex body of journalists covering the US president. Kumar, who has been covering the White House since 2012, was elected unopposed to the WHCA Board.

Born and brought up in Charlottesville, she went to the University of Virginia. After college, she started her journalism career from the News and Advance in Lynchburg, Virginia and the News and Record in Greensboro, North Carolina. St Petersburg Times, now known as The Tampa Bay Times, was her first major organisation, where she worked for 10 years before moving to the US capital. Kumar is now the White House Correspondent for the McClatchy group of newspapers.

"Last year, when I ran for the first time, and I ran for the president. A few people encouraged me to run for the president of the body because they thought this would be such a statement to the Trump White House that somebody like me and a woman would be the (WHCA) president," she told PTI in an interview.

Now covering the White House for the second president, she feels that access to journalists has been an issue in both the presidency she covered. "They (journalists) want more briefings. They want more on the record statements. They want more access to other people besides (the White House Press Secretary) Sarah Sanders. They want the press office people to return their emails. That's a big problem to get anyone to respond and answer any questions," she said. The board of the WHCA has nine members.
No one can second guess just what the US president has in mind but when it comes to war, the US military knows that such a war can be conventional only up to a point and asymmetric thereafter.

President Donald Trumps decision to pull the US out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPA) of July 2015, also known as the Iran nuclear deal, did send signals of concern around the world. With JCPA in place, in the last three years, a number of nations had begun to invest in Iran being aware of opportunities in a nation which had been virtually out of the international economic ambit for many years due to sanctions. Now with fresh US sanctions about to be implemented the international community is once again examining how to remain outside the complex politics of these sanctions and continue to follow individual national interests. However, an even more serious threat appears to be emerging over the last few weeks with Trump and his core advisors, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and National Security Advisor John Bolton, issuing naked threats against Iran and expressing their willingness to go to war to effect a regime change and destroy Irans nuclear facilities which they suspect can put Iran on the path to attaining nuclear weapon status in an undetermined yet fairly early time frame.

US animosity towards Iran goes back to 1979-80, in fact to three specific events. First was Irans clergy led revolution which overthrew one of US closest allies of the Cold War era, Shah Reza Pahlavi, Irans dictatorial monarch. The second was the takeover by renegade Iranian youth of the US Embassy in Tehran in mid-1980 when president Jimmy Carter allowed the ailing Shah To visit the US for treatment of cancer. The third was the botched attempt to rescue the hostages at the embassy by the US Special Forces which led to fatalities of US servicemen when two aircraft collided during a dust storm in the desert. It effectively sealed the fate of Carter who was then seeking a second term as president. More importantly, it hit US ego in a way that the same has yet to recover. Iran's belligerence, particularly the rhetoric during the era of former Iranian president Ahmadinejad some years ago, a clandestine nuclear programme and a clergy-led antipathy (not necessarily supported by the Iranian public) has kept the US-Iran relationship on tenterhooks.

No one can second guess just what the US president has in mind but when it comes to war, the US military knows that such a war can be conventional only up to a point and asymmetric thereafter. An initial occupation of territory in Afghanistan and Iraq did not guarantee any quick victory and those were multinational operations, initially conventional followed by asymmetric. Against Iran, the US is likely to find only Israel as a willing partner. There is no reason for Europe to join in and other Middle Eastern nations would be reluctant due to possible blowback. The Saudis are too deeply immersed in Yemen. The US lacks sufficient will to put boots on the ground except for a few Special Forces but objectives in such a war cannot be attained by Special Forces without ground holding capability. Thus the US will rely on three elements of warfighting -- missile forces, air power and a possible naval blockade. The aim would be twofold. First, the destruction of the nuclear sites which are known to exist in deep-dug facilities and would require deep penetration bombing, that is something the US and Israel have been preparing for long. Second, would be regime change. That can happen only through an engineered revolt with psychological warfare and information operations supported by other intelligence operations. There can be no guarantee that such operations will succeed as Shia unity is likely to strengthen. A study of Shiaite history will reveal to what extent sacrifice is extolled as a basic value within that ideology. Destruction of Iranian nuclear sites and other infrastructure will only cause unity among the Iranian people rather than antipathy towards the clergy based leadership.

The man who is realistically aware of the dangers of asymmetric warfare is defence secretary James Mattis. The former national security advisor, HR McMaster was similarly oriented. However, the experienced military advice is likely to be eschewed when it comes to higher decision making in the US. Bolton and Pompeo the current Trump favourites have long favoured military action. A war will have serious implications for international security as well as the global economy. Iran has larger than appreciated presence all over the Gulf region, especially in the Levant and controls one of the most lethal organisations, Hezbollah which can adopt terrorist ways very quickly. As per an Israeli estimate, Hezbollah has as many as 130,000 missiles of all varieties in its arsenal in Lebanon. It cannot be a walk away victory which Trump's advisers are imagining and Mattis, the pragmatic military brain knows it. The resultant chaos and turbulence will create the most ideal conditions for the return of an organisation such as the Islamic State which is yet kicking and alive in eastern Syria. Iran is unlikely to allow a blockade of the flow of its energy resources and trade without a matching blockade of the move of Arab oil. This will send the price of oil and gas skyrocketing bringing powers such as China, Japan and India into the issue thus further complicating it. The effect on the global economy will be catastrophic. High oil prices will benefit one country -- Russia but probably this has not occurred to the establishment in the US which favours military intervention.

The maxim that war is too risky a business to be left to Generals proves exactly the opposite in most conflicts in the post-Cold War period. That is because these wars are not simple conventional ones but deeply complex due to their hybrid nature. Military leaders well understand the implications of hybrid conflicts which usually end in No Victor No Vanquished type of situations and fester for years with unrealised side effects giving rise to subsidiary wars. Hopefully, Mattis, considered a rational hawk, will strongly oppose the President and advise him against stoking the fire unnecessarily. A war between the US and Iran can still be avoided with his intervention and timely advice.
BRASILIA (Reuters) - Lawyers for jailed former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Monday withdrew a request before Brazil's Supreme Court that he be freed because it risked shutting the door on his candidacy in the October presidential election. Despite being jailed in April on a corruption conviction and sentenced to 12 years in prison, Lula was nominated by his Workers Party on Saturday to press its point that his conviction was political persecution aimed at stopping Brazil's most influential politician from returning to power.

BRASILIA (Reuters) - Lawyers for jailed former President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Monday withdrew a request before Brazil's Supreme Court that he be freed because it risked shutting the door on his candidacy in the October presidential election.

Despite being jailed in April on a corruption conviction and sentenced to 12 years in prison, Lula was nominated by his Workers Party on Saturday to press its point that his conviction was political persecution aimed at stopping Brazil's most influential politician from returning to power.

The country's top electoral court is expected to invalidate his candidacy when it is registered on the Aug. 15 deadline and the party has picked former Sao Paulo mayor Fernando Haddad as running mate to stand in for Lula if needed.

Haddad said on Monday Lula had asked for the release petition to be dropped because of the risk that the top court would decide simultaneously that he was ineligible to run for office under an anti-corruption law. If the top court ruled, the electoral court would not be able to consider his case.

By registering his candidacy at the last minute next week, the former leftist leader aims to keep Brazilian's attention on his case as long as possible, helping to transfer his popular support into votes for his party.

"It was a request for his release, but it appears that the petition was going to be used to rule on his eligibility in the election," Haddad told reporters after visiting Lula in his prison in the southern city of Curitiba.

"Lula has always said he will not trade his dignity for freedom," said Haddad, who is a lawyer and was added to the former president's defence team so that he could visit Lula regularly in jail.

Lula governed Brazil for two terms from 2003-2010 and left office with a record approval rating of 87 percent thanks to a booming economy and social programs that lifted millions of Brazilians from poverty.

His popularity has been hurt by corruption indictments and scandals involving his party, which was ousted from power in 2016 when his hand-picked successor was impeached for breaking budget rules.

Still, polls show about one third of Brazilians would vote for him if he is allowed to run  almost double his nearest adversary, far-right candidate Jair Bolsonaro  and many of his supporters will vote for whomever replaces him in the race.

(Reporting by Ricardo Brito; Writing by Anthony Boadle; editing by Diane Craft)

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Hamza bin Laden, the son of the late Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, has married the daughter of Mohammed Atta, the lead hijacker and one of the ringleaders of the September 2001 terror attacks in the US, according to the family.

London: Hamza bin Laden, the son of the late Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, has married the daughter of Mohammed Atta, the lead hijacker and one of the ringleaders of the September 2001 terror attacks in the US, according to the family.

The marriage was confirmed by Osama bin Laden's half-brothers  Ahmad and Hassan al-Attas  during an interview with The Guardian.

"We have heard he has married the daughter of Mohammed Atta," Ahmad al-Attas said. "We're not sure where he is, but it could be in Afghanistan."

The brothers said they believed Hamza had taken a senior position within Al-Qaeda and was aiming to avenge the death of his father who was shot dead during a US military raid in Pakistan's Abbottabad town on 2 May, 2011.

Hamza is the son of one of Osama bin Laden's three surviving wives, Khairiah Sabar, who was living with her husband in Abbottabad when he was killed.

He has since made public statements urging followers to wage war on the US, the UK, France and Israel and is seen as a deputy to the terrorist group's incumbent leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri.

Western intelligence agencies have been increasingly focusing on Hamza's whereabouts over the past two years.

Another of Bin Laden's sons, Khalid, was killed in the Abbottabad raid. A third, Saad, was killed in a drone strike in Afghanistan in 2009.

Letters purportedly written by Osama bin Laden and seized from the compound suggested he was grooming Hamza to replace him.

The late militant leader's wives and surviving children have returned to Saudi Arabia, where they were given refuge by the former Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef.

The women and children remain in close contact with Osama bin Laden's mother, Alia Ghanem, who told the Guardian in a recent interview that she remained in regular touch with surviving family members.
Russia on Monday said it was 'deeply disappointed' by President Donald Trump's decision to reimpose unilateral sanctions on Iran.

Moscow: Russia on Monday said it was "deeply disappointed" by President Donald Trump's decision to reimpose unilateral sanctions on Iran. "We are deeply disappointed by US steps to reimpose its national sanctions against Iran," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement.

The ministry said it will do "everything necessary" to save the historic 2015 Iran nuclear deal and protect its shared economic interests with Tehran. "This is a clear example of Washington violating UN Resolution 2231 (on the Iran deal) and international law," the statement said. Moscow said the multi-party nuclear agreement Trump abandoned in May has "shown its effectiveness".

It called on the international community "not to allow such significant achievements in multilateral diplomacy to be sacrificed in the name of American aspirations to settle political scores with Iran". "As long-term experience has shown, it will not be possible to gain concessions from Iran using pressure," the statement said.

The US re-imposed a wave of tough, unilateral sanctions against Iran today, bringing back into effect harsh penalties lifted by the deal. The first of two rounds of US sanctions kicked in at 12:01 am (0431 GMT), targeting Iran's access to US banknotes and key industries, including cars and carpets.

Iranians are already seeing the effects of the sanctions, with Iran's rial currency losing around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the nuclear accord. Trump's contempt for the nuclear deal dates back to his time as presidential candidate and on May 8, he made good on a pledge to pull America out of the international agreement.
The Saudi government expelled Canada's ambassador, giving him 24 hours to leave the country, and recalled its own envoy to Ottawa, while freezing all new trade.

Saudi Arabia and Canada have engaged in a bitter war and show no signs of backing down after Riyadh abruptly cut ties over Ottawa's vigorous calls for the release of activists jailed in the kingdom.

The Saudi government expelled Canada's ambassador, giving him 24 hours to leave the country, and recalled its own envoy to Ottawa, while freezing all new trade over what it slammed as "interference" in its internal affairs. Saudi Arabia's state airliner has also suspended its direct flights to Toronto and Riyadh has said it will relocate thousands of Saudi students studying in Canada to other countries.

Canada last week said it was "gravely concerned" over a new wave of arrests of women and human rights campaigners in the kingdom, including award-winning gender rights activist Samar Badawi and called on Riyadh to "immediately release them".

Saudi foreign minister Adel al-Jubeir on Monday criticised Canada's calls to free arrested civil society activists as a position built on "misleading" information, and said his country would not tolerate any interference in its own affairs. The ministry called Canada's statement "a blatant interference in the Kingdom's domestic affairs, against basic international norms and all international protocols."

Calling the Canadian position as an "affront," the Saudi foreign ministry said it requires a sharp response to prevent any party from attempting to meddle with Saudi sovereignty. Jubeir also said that those held in Saudi Arabia were "subject to Saudi legal laws that guarantees their rights".

Canada, in its response, has refused to back down and said that it will continue to stand up for human rights.

Canada will 'continue to advocate for human rights'

Canadian foreign minister Chrystia Freeland said in a statement, "We are deeply concerned that Saudi Arabia has expelled Canadas ambassador in response to Canadian statements in defence of human rights activists detained in the kingdom.

"Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including womens rights and freedom of expression around the world. We will never hesitate to promote these values and we believe that this dialogue is critical to international diplomacy.

"The Embassy of Canada to Saudi Arabia, in Riyadh, continues its regular operations, including consular services. Canada will continue to advocate for human rights and for the brave women and men who push for these fundamental rights around the world."

'Canada not one of Saudi Arabia's most important allies'

Thomas Juneau, an assistant professor at the University of Ottawas Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, told The Atlantic that picking on Canada, which is not one of Saudi Arabia's most important allies, is a relatively low-cost way for Riyadh to send a message to the West as a whole. The message being that the Kingdom does not tolerate criticism of its domestic affairs, Juneau added.

The Kingdom is an important source of foreign students for Canada, with over 15,000 Saudi students in Canada, including 800 resident physicians and specialists who provide care to the Canadian population.

Juneau also told The Globe and Mail that "For Canadian universities, this is a significant hit," was referring to Riyadh's decision to relocate its students from Canada. "Saudi Arabia is the fourth largest contingent of foreign students in this country."

Regarding trade, Saudi Arabia is currently Canada's second largest export market in the region. However, Riyadh's freeze on trade is not expected to affect the Canadian economy. According to The Wall Street Journal, the two-way trade between the countries was relatively small, totaling roughly $3.08 billion in 2017. Saudi Arabia accounts for just 0.24 percent of Canadian exports in 2016, according to the World Bank data.

Further, the controversial arms deal between Canada and Saudi Arabia was presented by Riyadh as an "act of friendship" between the two countries. The $15 billion agreement includes sale of more than 900 armoured vehicles  including "heavy assault" armoured vehicles and equipped with cannons  to Saudi Arabia. Riyadh officials, according to The Globe and Mail, said that the deal should be seen as a goodwill gesture by the Kingdom to cement its friendship with Canada.

"This contract has been given to Canada to improve the relations and enhance the relations," Saudi Arabia's chief envoy Naif Bin Bandar al-Sudairi was quoted as saying. The future of the deal remains in question after the acrimony between Canada and Saudi Arabia.

With inputs from agencies
Saudi Arabia's state airliner has suspended its direct flights to Toronto after Canada called for the release of detained activists for civil society and women's rights.

Riyadh: Saudi Arabia's state airliner has suspended its direct flights to Toronto after Canada called for the release of detained activists for civil society and women's rights. The Middle Eastern country has also frozen all trade and expelled Canada's ambassador over the "interference", the BBC reported on Monday.

Canada has responded by saying it "will continue to advocate for human rights". Those held include the Saudi-American human rights campaigner Samar Badawi, sister of jailed blogger Raif Badawi.

Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland said she was "deeply concerned" by the diplomat's expulsion, but added, "Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including women's rights and freedom of expression around the world. "We will never hesitate to promote these values and we believe that this dialogue is critical to international diplomacy."

Her Saudi counterpart, Adel al-Jubeir, had earlier tweeted that Canada's position was based on "misleading information", adding that anyone arrested was "subject to Saudi laws that guarantee their rights". The leading Saudi women's rights campaigner Manal al-Sharif thanked Canada for "speaking up" and asked when other Western powers would do the same.

In what appeared to be a further sign of deteriorating relations between the two countries, a verified Twitter account, which is reportedly linked to Saudi authorities, shared an image of a plane flying towards Toronto's famed CN Tower. The image was overlaid with text, including a quote which read "he who with what doesn't concern him finds what doesn't please him". People on social media have been quick to point out the similarities between the image and images of 9/11. The account has since been deleted, but cached versions of the tweet are circulating online.
Surjit Singh Malhi was putting out signs near his home in California when he was attacked by two men who assaulted him and painted racial slurs on his truck

New York: "My turban really saved me", says a 50-year-old Sikh man who was ambushed, beaten up multiple times by two white men who yelled racial slurs at him in the US. Surjit Singh Malhi said he was putting out political signs for US Representative Jeff Denham, a Republican running for re-election, near his home in California when he was attacked by the two men who yelled racial slurs such as "You're not welcome here!, Go back to your country!".

"My turban really saved me," Malhi was quoted as saying by the New York Times on Monday. He said his turban acted "like a helmet, but stronger."

"The two men came up behind me and accosted me. They threw sand in my eyes so I could not see, he said, adding that they struck my head and back with what appeared to be a stick and a belt.

"The way they were hitting me, (I thought) maybe I would die. You don't belong here," he said they told him.

Malhi came to the US from India in 1992 and is now a permanent resident. He wears a turban and that may be the reason he was targeted, but it may have also saved his life. "The only reason (he was attacked), as far as we can tell, is because he was wearing a turban and he was Middle Eastern," Deputy Royjindar Singh said. "That was the only reason they attacked him."

Malhi said everything happened quickly. He said he did not get a good look at the attackers, but told investigators they were two men wearing black sweatshirts, KCRA channel TV reported. He said they spray painted the side of his truck with a white nationalist symbol and wrote, "Go back to your country."

Malhi said he has never experienced racism like that. "I never feel that way," he said. "I've never been mistreated like that." He also said that "I have a lot of friends. I have no problem. I do not feel any racism against me ever. I have friends who are standing for me. They love me and I love them."

Sheriff Adam Christianson of Stanislaus County said his office was aggressively investigating the case and looking for suspects. "It's a despicable hate crime," the sheriff said. "There is no room for this in Stanislaus County or anywhere else in the United States of America."

Meanwhile, Denham, the Republican lawmaker of California, released a statement yesterday condemning the attack, which occurred in his district. Central California is home to a large Sikh community, and Malhi leads a group of Sikh volunteers for the congressman's campaign. "Inciting violence because of race, religion or political beliefs should never be tolerated," Denham said. "This is the third incident in less than two weeks where a member of my team has been a target and it must come to an end."

Turbans represent a commitment to gender and racial equality, as well as religious tolerance, said Gurwin Singh Ahuja, co-founder of the National Sikh Campaign. "Sikhs wear their turbans to signal their readiness to protect people from injustice," he said. "It's very ironic that these people chose to attack him for how he looks, when in fact, how he looks represents the highest ideals of our country."
The unprecedented protests by the students in Bangladesh demanding better road safety end after nine-day-long stir that left over 150 people injured in clashes with riots police

Dhaka: The unprecedented protests by the students in Bangladesh demanding better road safety laws virtually came to an end on Tuesday, with agitators returning to their classes after a nine-day-long stir that left over 150 people injured in clashes with riots police.

The death of two teenage students - a boy and a girl - by a speeding bus on 29 July brought thousands of schools, colleges and universities students on the streets of the Bangladesh capital, demanding strict implementation of road safety rules.

The two students were killed when two buses racing to pick passengers, a common occurrence in the city, hit them and wounded several others. One of the bus drivers fled the scene, although both were later arrested.

Authorities claimed that students have returned to their classes and every thing was normal.

"Today everything is normal. Students have returned to their classes," Mahbubur Rahman, head of Bangladesh's secondary and higher education authority said.

"So far no news of protests from any university," he said, adding that the authorities have shut down two universities in an effort to quell the protests.

Meanwhile, the Education Ministry has called a meeting of vice-chancellors of all private universities Wednesday to discuss clashes between police and students during the campaign.

"The meeting will take place at the Dhaka International Mother Language Institute auditorium tomorrow, (sic)" bdnews24.com said, quoting the Education Ministry. Bangladesh Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid will chair the meeting, it said.

The protests saw teenagers and high-school students paralyse traffic in the Bangladesh capital and beyond. Buses were torched, hundreds of vehicles vandalised as alleged pro-government mobs attacked demonstrators, journalists, photographers and even the US ambassador's car during the protests.

On Sunday, some people, wearing helmets, attacked agitators and journalists covering the stir in Dhaka.

Transport workers on Monday, who went on a virtual shutdown citing security reasons for the past eight days took to the street and clashed with protestors, prompting police to use batons and tear gas canisters.

Police lobbed tear gas shells and rubber bullets, used water cannons and resorted to baton charge to disperse a procession brought out by the Dhaka University students.

The police action on the protesters invited criticism of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government from the United Nations, Washington and rights groups.

At the height of the protests, students were seen managing Dhaka's notorious traffic and checking whether drivers of the cars and buses had valid licences and proof of road worthiness of their vehicles.

In a bid to calm down the protesting students, the Bangladesh government also promised to consider death penalty for deliberately causing road deaths and approved a new road safety law.

Bangladesh appeared to be one of the world's worst accident prone countries with the World Bank saying more than 4,000 people die in road accidents each year.

More than 4,200 pedestrians were killed in Bangladesh in 2017, a 25 percent increase from 2016, according to a private research group the National Committee to Protest Shipping, Roads and Railways.

Journalists today gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest those involved in attacks on some of their colleagues while covering the protests. At least, seven photojournalists, including an Associated Press (AP) photographer were injured in attacks with sharp weapons, sticks and iron rods by youths wearing helmets at Dhanmondi, Jigatala and Science Laboratory areas.

Meanwhile, an alliance of left-leaning student organisations, Progressive Students Alliance Tuesday announced demonstrations in all the educational institutions across the country Wednesday in protest against attacks on students.
By Babak Dehghanpisheh and Peter Graff BEIRUT/LONDON (Reuters) - Companies doing business with Iran will be barred from the United States, President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, as new U.S.

By Babak Dehghanpisheh and Peter Graff

BEIRUT/LONDON (Reuters) - Companies doing business with Iran will be barred from the United States, President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, as new U.S. sanctions took effect despite pleas from Washington's allies.

Iran dismissed a last-minute offer from the Trump administration for talks, saying it could not negotiate while Washington had reneged on a 2015 deal to lift sanctions in return for curbs on Iran's nuclear programme.

Trump decided this year to pull out of the agreement, ignoring pleas from the other world powers that had co-sponsored the deal, including Washington's main European allies Britain, France and Germany, as well as Russia and China.

European countries, hoping to persuade Tehran to continue to respect the deal, have promised to try to lessen the blow of sanctions and to urge their firms not to pull out. But that has proven difficult: European companies have quit Iran, arguing that they cannot risk their U.S. business.

"These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level. Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!" Trump tweeted on Tuesday.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif criticized Trump's tweet as a tired cliche and denounced "US unilateralism."

"And it is not the first time that a warmonger claims he is waging war for 'world peace'," Zarif tweeted.

White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Monday Iran's only chance of escaping sanctions would be to take up an offer to negotiate with Trump for a tougher deal.

"If the ayatollahs want to get out from under the squeeze, they should come and sit down. The pressure will not relent while the negotiations go on," Bolton, one of the administration's main hawks on Iran, told Fox News.

On Tuesday, Bolton said the sanctions were already working, deterring European companies: The European governments are still holding to the nuclear deal, but honestly their businesses are running from it as fast as they can so that the effect of the American sanctions really is proceeding regardless.

Few American companies do much business in Iran so the impact of sanctions mainly stems from Washington's ability to block European and Asian firms from trading there.

Among large European companies that have suspended plans to invest in Iran are France's oil major Total and its big carmakers PSA and Renault .

"We have ceased our already restricted activities in Iran in accordance with the applicable sanctions", said German car and truck manufacturer Daimler .

REMOVE THE KNIFE

Washington accepts that Iran has complied with the terms of the 2015 deal reached under Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, but says the agreement is flawed because it is not strict enough. Iran says it will continue to abide by the deal for now, if other countries can help protect it from the economic impact of Washington's decision to pull out.

Tuesday's sanctions target Iran's purchases of U.S. dollars, metals trading, coal, industrial software and its auto sector. Global oil prices rose on Tuesday on concern sanctions could cut world supply, although the toughest measures targeting Iran's oil exports do not take effect for four more months.

Global benchmark Brent crude oil futures were up $1 or 1.36 percent to $74.75 per barrel at 1823 GMT.

"It is a reality check that this is happening and that Iran's oil exports will be hurt when the oil sanctions hit it in November," chief commodities analyst at Commerzbank Bjarne Schieldrop said.

In a speech hours before the sanctions were due to take effect, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani rejected negotiations as long as Washington was no longer complying with the deal.

"If you stab someone with a knife and then you say you want talks, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife," Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state television.

"We are always in favour of diplomacy and talks ... But talks need honesty," Rouhani said.

Iranian Intelligence Minister Mahmoud Alavi said Trump's withdrawal from the deal meant there was no point negotiating, since Washington had shown it did not abide by its commitments.

"And Iran, based on past experience, has no trust in negotiating with the American government."

The nuclear deal is closely associated in Iran with Rouhani, a relative moderate who won two landslide elections on promises to open up the economy to the outside world. European countries fear that by abandoning it, Washington could undermine Rouhani and strengthen the hand of his hardline opponents.

Britain, France, Germany and the EU as a bloc said in a joint statement on Monday: "We deeply regret the reimposition of sanctions by the U.S."

Since the sanctions were initially lifted two years ago, Iranian oil exports have risen. But many Iranians have yet to see major economic improvement, and the prospect that Washington would reimpose sanctions has helped drive a collapse in the value of Iran's currency this year, raising the cost of imports.

Iran's security forces have responded firmly to protests against rising prices. Iran this week made it easier to access foreign currency and said it was prosecuting an ex-central bank official for economic crimes.

"(Sanctions) will definitely make daily life harder for Iranians," said Saeed Leylaz, a Tehran-based economist and political analyst. "But if the government has a serious plan they can control the situation."

Iraq said it did not agree with the U.S. sanctions on its neighbour, but will abide by them to protect its own interests.

"As a matter of principle we are against sanctions in the region. Blockade and sanctions destroy societies and do not weaken regimes," Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said on Tuesday.

(Writing by Peter Graff and Mary Milliken; Additional reporting by Susan Heavey in Washington; Editing by Angus MacSwan and James Dalgleish)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
LONDON (Reuters) - Britain is ready to ask Russia to extradite two men it suspects of carrying out a nerve agent attack on a Russian former spy in the English city of Salisbury, the Guardian newspaper reported on Monday, citing government and security sources. The newspaper said prosecutors had completed the extradition request and it was ready for submission.

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain is ready to ask Russia to extradite two men it suspects of carrying out a nerve agent attack on a Russian former spy in the English city of Salisbury, the Guardian newspaper reported on Monday, citing government and security sources.

The newspaper said prosecutors had completed the extradition request and it was ready for submission.

Sergei Skripal, a former colonel in Russian military intelligence who betrayed dozens of agents to Britains MI6 foreign spy service, and his daughter Yulia, were found unconscious on a public bench in Salisbury in early March.

Britain blamed Russia for the poisonings and identified the poison as Novichok, a deadly group of nerve agents developed by the Soviet military in the 1970s and 1980s. Russia has repeatedly denied any involvement in the attack.

The extradition request is likely to be rejected by Russia - and risks inflaming diplomatic tensions between London and Moscow, which are the worst since the Cold War.

The Russian constitution forbids the extradition of Russian citizens to another state. Russian officials refused to hand over the men wanted for the murder of Alexander Litvinenko with a rare radioactive isotope in 2006.

An investigation by hundreds of British police and intelligence officers have pieced together the movements of the two Russians, from their entry into Britain through to their departure, the Guardian reported.

Britain's interior ministry and the Crown Prosecution Service declined to comment.

After the attack on the Skripals, allies in Europe and the United States sided with Britain's view of the attack and ordered the biggest expulsion of Russian diplomats since the height of the Cold War.

Russia retaliated by expelling Western diplomats. Moscow has repeatedly denied any involvement and accused the British intelligence agencies of staging the attack to stoke anti-Russian hysteria.

Since then, a British woman, Dawn Sturgess, died last month after coming across a small bottle containing Novichok near Salisbury where the Skripals were struck down. Her partner, Charlie Rowley, was also stricken.

The motive for attacking Skripal, then aged 66 who was exchanged in a Kremlin-approved spy swap in 2010, is still unclear, as is the motive for using an exotic nerve agent which has such clear links to Russia's Soviet past.

The decision to press for extradition follows a debate within the government, divided between those who want to ratchet up the response to Russia and those who see the request as a futile political gesture, the Guardian reported.

(Reporting by William James and Andrew MacAskill, Editing by Angus MacSwan)

This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed.
A US Navy veteran was on Tuesday awarded three consecutive life sentences on federal hate crime charges for killing Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla and wounding two others at a suburban Kansas City bar last year. Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed 32-year-old Kuchibhotla, and wounded two others  Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot  at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

New York: A US Navy veteran was on Tuesday awarded three consecutive life sentences on federal hate crime charges for killing Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla and wounding two others at a suburban Kansas City bar last year. Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed 32-year-old Kuchibhotla, and wounded two others  Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot  at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

Earlier this year, he pleaded guilty in federal court to hate crime and firearm offenses arising out of the shooting. At his federal guilty-plea hearing, Purinton admitted in open court that he targeted and shot Kuchibhotla and Madasani because of their race, colour, and national origin, and that he shot Grillot during an attempt to flee the scene of the crime. The sentences handed down in federal court today will run consecutively to another life sentence 53-year-old Purinton previously received for first-degree murder in Johnson County District Court.

None of his victims were in court. "The crimes at issue in this case are detestable," Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement. "The defendant acted with clear premeditation in murdering one man, and attempting to murder a second man, simply because of their race, religion, and national origin. As a result, a promising young life has been tragically cut short, and other lives have been filled with suffering." Sessions said that while the "irreparable harm" that Purinton has done cannot be undone, "some measure of justice for the victims' families has been achieved."

In a statement, Kuchibhotla's widow said that her husband was always "respectful to others" and would have helped Purinton understand that not every brown skinned person is evil but is contributing to America's growth. "My husband was more than what you chose to address him as. Always kind, caring, and respectful to others. Srinu and I came to the US of America full of dreams and aspirations...Now, my American Dream  and that of Srinu's  is broken," Sunayana Dumala said in the statement read out in court today as Purinton was sentenced, calling her husband by his informal name.

"...(U)se the time that is being given to you to educate yourself and inform others who are still out in the open and stop them from killing innocent people as you did - choosing violence over kindness," she added. US attorney Stephen McAllister for the District of Kansas said a person should be able to live without fear of becoming a victim of hate crimes irrespective of "who you are, what you believe, or how you worship."

The killing of Kuchibhotla had shaken the Indian community and led to heightened fear and anxiety among the South Asian population in general and the Indian community in particular, about their safety. Concerns grew in the community about misplaced perceptions among individuals over immigration status and ethnicity of Indians and South Asians in America.

According to evidence presented in court, a few weeks before the shooting, Purinton was sitting by himself in the bar area at Austins Bar & Grill when, coincidentally, Kuchibhotla and Madasani happened to be having a drink on the patio. Noticing the two men, Purinton commented to a regular sitting at the bar, "Did you see the terrorists on the patio?"

On 22 February, 2017, Purinton drove to Austins Bar & Grill and sat by himself at a table on the enclosed front patio. Sitting at the table to his left were Ian Grillot and several other patrons as well as Kuchibhotla and Madasani. He approached Kuchibhotla and Madasani, and demanded to know where they were from and how they entered the country. Purinton poked Kuchibhotla in the chest, called him a "terrorist" and an epithet disparaging persons of Middle Eastern descent, and shouted, "Get out of my country!"

Grillot and another patron interceded, told Purinton that he needed to leave, and escorted him out of the bar. Purinton drove home and retrieved a semi-automatic pistol and to disguise his identity, changed into a different shirt and grabbed a blue-and-white scarf. Later, he returned to the bar.

He walked over to the enclosed front patio, opened the door, aimed his semi-automatic pistol at Kuchibhotla and Madasani, and fired eight rounds: At least four of which struck Kuchibhotla, who died from his injuries, and one of which struck Madasani, who was injured, but survived. Hours after the shooting, Purinton stated over the phone to a friend, and later in person to a bartender, that he had just killed some Iranians.

Purinton admitted that he shot Kuchibhotla and Madasani, attempting to kill both men, because of their race, colour, religion, and national origin. After shooting Kuchibhotla and Madasani, Purinton ran out, and Grillot chased after him. As Grillot caught up to him, Purinton turned around and shot Grillot, who was also injured but survived.
Google has acquired GraphicsFuzz which is a company specializing in mobile graphics benchmarking tools, for an undisclosed amount. GraphicsFuzz is a three-person team-Alastair Donaldson, Hugues Evrard, and Paul Thomson and they will be joining Googles Android Graphics Team to integrate their specialist graphics driver testing technology within the Android ecosystem.

The companys flagship product ShaderTest GLES uses shaders that run in the graphics pipeline and guide the rendering process. It will also help in detecting bugs in drivers through a process called metamorphic testing.

The reference shaders produce an image, post which ShaderTest GLES applies semantics so to preserve transformations to the source code and compares the output. If the two results dont match, ShaderTest GLESs intelligent reducer feature reverses the transformations to narrow down the bugs cause.

This technology is being used to detect vulnerabilities in phones like the Samsung Galaxy S9 where the GraphicsFuzz discovered an exploit in Qualcomms Adreno 630 graphics driver that let malicious WebGL webpages to trigger a reboot with Samsungs stock internet browser.

The GraphicsFuzz technology was developed by Alastair, Hugues, Paul and Andrei Lascu from the Department of Computing at Imperial College London, with funding support from the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and the TETRACOM EU project.

Googles Spokesperson in a statement said:

The technology developed by GraphicsFuzz helps graphics technology vendors to build more reliable products, which is in high demand in todays technology-driven world, Lamia Baker, a senior licensing executive at Imperial Innovations, one of GraphicsFuzzs development partners, said. This acquisition is an endorsement of the companys progress, as well as a unique opportunity for GraphicsFuzz to have a positive impact in one of the worlds leading mobile operating systems.

Alastair Donaldson, Director of GraphicsFuzz, said:

The acquisition by Google is a fantastic opportunity to maximise the worldwide impact of our graphics driver testing technology.

Source
Square's (NYSE:SQ) business continued its strong momentum in the second quarter, as the company reported yet another quarter of accelerating revenue growth and management increased its top-line outlook for the full year again.

Of course, investors have come to expect exceptional results from the financial technology company. Square stock's mind-boggling 180% rise over the last twelve months means the pressure is on for the company to keep delivering strong growth across its business, as it executes on the growth opportunities in front of it.

Fortunately, there's good reason to expect more strong growth from Square. And two of those reasons are evident from looking at the company's recently launched products: Square Register and Square for Restaurants.

Square Register is resonating with sellers

Announced late last year, Square's latest point-of-sale device -- Square Register -- is still new to the market. And investors are still learning how it is contributing to Square's business. While it's become increasingly clear the device is helping the company attract larger sellers, management provided some extra insight about the device during this earnings call.

Square CFO Sarah Friar said Register, which is the company's priciest POS device yet, is appealing to "sellers of all sizes" due to being a better experience overall for customers:

What they loved is the customer display. We hear that over and over again. I think it's a good example of when we build a product, we want it to highlight our seller. It's not about Square. It's actually about their business.

As Square's first POS device with two displays -- one for the customer and one for the seller -- it seems to demonstrate incremental demand for a device that gives customers a better experience.

Friar added that the device does generally attract larger sellers, with an average gross payment volume (GPV) of about $300,000 for sellers using Register.

Square for Restaurants is a winning product

Continuing its momentum in launching new products and services, Square launched an entirely new platform aimed at restaurants earlier this year. Aiming to streamline both front- and back-end operations, the product already looks like a major success.

Consider that an impressive 60% of new Square for Restaurants customers are self-onboarding, highlighting both the platform's user-friendly setup process and its ability to attract new customers without significant sales efforts.

Square CEO Jack Dorsey explained why this is noteworthy:

This is rather unusual in the industry. Typically, restaurants go to the point-of-sale provider and they need help to set everything up. That includes their table map, all the menus, basically all the operations that they need to focus on to run the restaurant. They actually need a third party to help them out. So, the ability for a restaurant to take that on and self-onboard and do all their menus, do all their table layouts with our software is pretty awesome because it creates efficiencies.

Another reason for investors to be bullish on Square's latest platform is that it's pulling in some impressive customers. The average restaurant seller on the new platform boasts GPV above $650,000, Dorsey said.

These are just two of Square's more recent product launches that look like big hits. But the company has launched a range of successful products since 2014, including Square Capital, a payroll service, Virtual Terminal, and the Cash App. With a track record like this, it's likely that Square has more promising new products and services on the horizon.
When Mastercard Inc. (NYSE:MA) reported its second-quarter earnings, investors had plenty of reasons to cheer, despite its shares shedding a few percentage points in the days following the quarterly release. In the quarter, net revenue rose to $3.7 billion, a robust 20% increase year over year, and its adjusted earnings per share (EPS) grew to $1.66, an even more impressive 51% increase year over year. While some of these gains should be attributed to new tax laws and recent acquisitions that have yet to be lapped, there is evidence for plenty of organic growth as well.

In Q2, Mastercard's gross dollar volume, the amount of money transferred across the company's vast payment networks, increased 14% to $1.48 trillion. Mastercard's number of switched transactions, the number of times company products were used to facilitate transactions, rose 17% to 18.2 billion (once adjusted for Venezuela deconsolidation).

Mastercard Metrics Q2 2018 Q2 2017 Change (negative) Net revenue $3.67 billion $3.05 billion 20% Diluted EPS $1.66 $1.10 51% Effective tax rate 18.8% 27.7% (8.9 percentage points) Switched transactions 18.2 billion 16.0 billion 13.4%

Deals! Deals! Deals!

During the company's second-quarter conference call, CFO Martina Hund-Mejean attributed this acceleration in growth to the number of new deals the company had recently won, saying it was simply a matter of "getting all these wins coming into the numbers."

This quarter, as in recent quarters, Mastercard did announce several new deals. The highlights included an extension with JPMorgan Chase's commercial card business and Hawaiian Air's co-brand card business. Mastercard also won a new co-brand card relationship with L.L. Bean and expanded its relationship with PayPal to include the new Venmo debit card. It wasn't just in the U.S. that Mastercard found success: The company signed a new deal with the Bank of India, and in Portugal, Credito Agricola flipped its consumer and credit card business to Mastercard.

When asked how Mastercard was able to win so many of these new deals, CEO Ajay Banga stated:

I'm a believer that our future will be built on choice and on offering bundled solutions. Those are the two things I'm very focused on building. ... So, we want to digitize every form of payment and we want to allow every form of payment to be available as a one-stop shop from us. You want it, we've got it. ... You combine that with bundling both payments with all these other services solutions that a number of the newer banks want. They don't have capabilities of ... fraud management, data analytics, processing, loyalty and rewards. If you can try and bundle these things together, then you get a good, attractive conversation going with them. I think that's probably what's helping us right now.

A one-stop shop for payments

Mastercard placed itself in a fairly unique position among payment networks when it acquired VocaLink in May 2017 for $920 million. VocaLink enables nearly instantaneous transfers between bank accounts, also known as Fast ACH, in several markets around the world including Singapore, Sweden, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This gives Mastercard an inimitable suite of payment options it can offer potential clients, including ACH, debit, and commercial and consumer card services.

For instance, in Sweden and Thailand, VocaLink powers PromptPay, an app that facilitates bank account transfers using citizen ID numbers. In the United Kingdom, VocaLink empowers pay-by-bank apps, which allow consumers to make purchases using their bank's mobile app without any need to link it to a debit or credit card. Without VocaLink's ACH capabilities, it's doubtful Mastercard would have been able to win this type of business.

A bundling of services

The other thing Banga called out in helping Mastercard win new business was the growing collection of services it can bundle with its core payment infrastructure, including security features, data analytics, and loyalty-point management. Banga said these services give Mastercard "a much broader, wider relationship" with its clients, making it much more likely that these clients will renew deals with Mastercard as current agreements expire. Banga specifically credited these services for the new L.L. Bean co-brand deal and said Credito Agricola had already used Mastercard to build out its digital bank prototype.

While building these relationships with its clients is obviously important, it should also be pointed out that these services are rapidly increasing revenue streams in their own right. In Q2, Mastercard's "other revenues" category, where these services are accounted for, grew to $785 million, a 13% year-over-year increase.

Still a buy

Over the past year, Mastercard shares have appreciated more than 55%, more than three times as much as the S&P 500 index. With such huge gains, one might rightly wonder if shares are getting too expensive to make for a suitable investment. At their current price and based on adjusted earnings, shares currently sport a P/E ratio of 36 -- a steep price for any growth stock!

Yet despite the high growth, I believe the price is justified. The company is showing, I think, that it knows what it takes to continue its winning ways by focusing on differentiating qualities even as it rides strong secular tailwinds. Besides, it's not too often investors can find an investment that combines attractive qualities such as high operating margins, rapid earnings growth, superb management, and a proven history of outperforming the market -- which is exactly what investors get with Mastercard shares.
Don't underestimate the power of dividends -- especially when you reinvest those dividends over a long period of time. You might be surprised by how much reinvesting dividends can boost your total returns.

But what dividend stocks should you buy? I'd recommend turning your attention to the healthcare sector. It accounts for nearly one-fifth of the U.S. economy and claims plenty of solid dividend stocks. Three that I especially like are AbbVie (NYSE:ABBV), Pfizer (NYSE:PFE), and Welltower (NYSE:WELL). These top healthcare dividend stocks pay you to wait as each company's growth picks up momentum.

1. AbbVie

AbbVie's dividend currently yields a little over 4%. The company has boosted its dividend by 140% since becoming a stand-alone entity in 2013. AbbVie should have plenty of financial flexibility to keep those dividend hikes coming in future years, too.

The big drugmaker appears to have a good plan in place to reduce its dependence on Humira, the world's best-selling drug. AbbVie already has two other blockbusters with cancer drug Imbruvica and hepatitis C virus (HCV) drug Mavyret. Two other already approved products should be huge winners over the next few years -- endometriosis pain drug Orilissa and leukemia drug Venclexta.

AbbVie's pipeline includes several candidates with tremendous potential. Risankizumab and upadacitinib could join Humira to solidify AbbVie's position at the top in immunology. The company is also hoping to add new approved indications for existing drugs such as Imbruvica and Orilissa.

Don't write off Humira yet, either. Market research firm EvaluatePharma predicts that Humira will still be the top-selling drug in the world at least through 2024. That's plenty of time for AbbVie's other drugs and pipeline candidates to ramp up sales. In the meantime, investors can look forward to the big pharma company's nice dividend payments.

2. Pfizer

Pfizer has paid a dividend every quarter in every year since late 1938. That's an impressive streak that I expect will remain unbroken for a long time to come. The dividend is also quite attractive, with a current yield of nearly 3.7%.

But while Pfizer's dividend looks great, the drugmaker hasn't generated tremendous growth in recent years. One big reason why is that Pfizer continues to face declining sales for several drugs that have lost exclusivity. In addition, the company has had product shortages with its sterile injectables business that weighed on sales.

The good news for Pfizer is that both of these issues should improve in the not-too-distant future. Pfizer CEO Ian Read stated in the company's Q2 earnings conference call that year-over-year comparisons for its sterile injectables business should improve beginning in the third quarter of 2018. Read has also expressed optimism that the negative impact from older drugs that have lost exclusivity will become much less of an anchor for the company after 2020.

Meanwhile, Pfizer claims several drugs with strong momentum. Anticoagulant Eliquis, which Pfizer co-markets with Bristol-Myers Squibb, and breast cancer drug Ibrance are at the top of the list. Pfizer anticipates even stronger growth for immunology drug Xeljanz. And the company has its best pipeline in years, with several promising drugs awaiting regulatory approval or in late-stage clinical testing.

3. Welltower

I have referred to Welltower as a retiree's dream stock -- in large part because of the company's fantastic dividend. Welltower's dividend yield currently stands at 5.4%. As a real-estate investment trust (REIT), Welltower must return at least 90% of taxable income to shareholders in the form of dividends.

Welltower ranks as the largest healthcare-focused REIT in the world. The company owned 1,077 properties as of June 30, 2018. These properties include senior housing communities, post-acute care communities, and outpatient medical facilities.

Where those properties are located is also appealing. Welltower's strategy is to focus primarily on high-growth urban markets. Not only do these markets have more potential customers for its properties, there also tend to be relatively high barriers to entry.

My prediction is that Welltower should enjoy solid growth over the long term. That's a pretty easy prediction to make. The number of Americans in the age groups most likely to move into senior housing or post-acute care communities is projected to increase dramatically over the next two decades.

The shortest wait

All three of these healthcare dividend stocks pay investors to wait for higher growth. I suspect, though, that the wait will be shortest for AbbVie.

Pfizer will probably return to solid growth after 2020. Welltower's growth is likely to really pick up midway through the next decade. AbbVie, however, has several major catalysts on the way relatively soon. The company could win FDA approvals for risankizumab and upadacitinib next year.

I like all three of these stocks over the long run. However, I think AbbVie is the most compelling buy right now. AbbVie has a great dividend and tremendous growth prospects, and the stock looks really cheap, with shares trading at less than 11 times expected earnings.
The Tennessee Supreme Court has reversed part of a Court of Criminal Appeals decision suppressing evidence in a case involving individuals on supervised release and has affirmed the suppression of evidence against a third party who resided with them.

Janet Stanfield, who was serving a community corrections sentence, Tony Winsett, who was on parole, and Janet Stanfields adult son, Justin Stanfield, lived together in a residence in Union City, Tennessee. Justin Stanfield was not on any form of supervised release. Acting upon information received from a confidential informant, law enforcement officers conducted a warrantless parole search of the residence based on Winsetts parolee status. Officers were aware that both Janet and Justin Stanfield resided with him.

When officers arrived at the residence, they knocked on two doors, but the knocks went unanswered. Based upon observations made at the residence, officers entered through the front door of the residence, where they immediately detected a very strong odor of marijuana. Officers noted three bedrooms with open doors and quickly ascertained which of the bedrooms belonged to whom. Officers seized a weapon, ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and methamphetamine from the bedroom shared by Winsett and Janet Stanfield. In Justin Stanfields bedroom, an officer found a jar that contained marijuana concealed inside a wooden television stand, as well as a weapon and ammunition.

Meanwhile, officers noticed Justin Stanfields vehicle drive past the residence, and they left to conduct a traffic stop of his car. At that time, Justin Stanfield provided information that led officers to another location to conduct an undercover narcotics transaction. During the ensuing narcotics operation, Winsett and Janet Stanfield drove past. Officers pursued the vehicle, and after a chase, the driver, Winsett, finally stopped. A search of Janet Stanfield yielded four alprazolam tablets and currency.

An Obion County Grand Jury jointly indicted Winsett and Janet Stanfield for drug and weapons offenses. Winsett was indicted for attempting to elude a law enforcement officer. Janet Stanfield and Justin Stanfield were separately indicted for drug offenses. Prior to trial, defendants filed motions to suppress the evidence obtained as a result of the warrantless search. The trial court suppressed the evidence against all three defendants and dismissed the indictments. The State appealed to the Court of Criminal Appeals, which affirmed the rulings of the trial court.

The Tennessee Supreme Court granted the States application for permission to appeal in this case to consider the relative expectations of privacy enjoyed by individuals granted supervised release from incarcerationincluding those on parole, probation, community corrections, or someone residing with such an individual.

The Court held that the parole search of Winsett was a status search based on his status as a parolee and was therefore permissible, notwithstanding a finding of probable cause or reasonable suspicion. The fact that Winsett was not home at the time did not affect the constitutionality of the search. Second, the search of Winsetts/Janet Stanfields bedroom, including items that clearly belonged to her, was permissible pursuant to the doctrine of common authority, which represents an expansion of this doctrine to apply to status searches.

Finally, also applying common authority, the Court held that the search of Justin Stanfields private bedroom was not encompassed by the doctrine, absent a showing of common access and usage by the other residents of the household. Therefore, the Court reversed the Court of Criminal Appeals suppression of evidence against Winsett and Janet Stanfield and affirmed the suppression of evidence against Justin Stanfield.

Justice Sharon G. Lee filed a separate opinion dissenting in part and concurring in the judgment of the Court. In her view, Mr. Winsetts parolee status should not subject him, Ms. Stanfield, and her son, Justin Stanfield, to a warrantless and suspicionless search. Rather, she contends, Article I, section 7 of the Tennessee constitution requires the police to have reasonable suspicion before searching a parolee without a warrant. After reviewing the facts, Justice Lee concluded that the police did not have reasonable suspicion to search the Winsett/Stanfield home. Therefore, the evidence from the search should have been suppressed based on the violation of Mr. Winsett, Ms. Stanfield, and her sons constitutional rights.

To read the majority opinion in State of Tennessee v. Janet Stanfield, authored by Justice Roger A. Page, and Justice Sharon G. Lees separate concurring and dissenting opinion, go to the opinions section of TNCourts.gov.
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These Nokia smartphones will get Android 9 Pie update: Nokia 7 Plus, Nokia 6.1 and more News oi-Abhinaya Prabhu Google confirms Android 9 Pie update rollout time frame.

Google announced Android 9 Pie on Monday and the update is already available for the Pixel smartphones. However, the Pixel devices aren't the only ones to get this device. We say so as the Android 9 Pie is also expected to make its way to the smartphones belonging to the Android One program. And, how can we forget Nokia smartphones while talking about the Android One program?

Back in February, at the MWC (Mobile World Congress) 2018 in Barcelona, HMD Global confirmed that the Nokia smartphones above Nokia 2 will belong to the Android One program. Eventually, it means the Nokia smartphones launched this year. And, all these smartphones are expected to receive the Android 9 Pie update earlier than the devices from other brands.

Google's confirmation

After unveiling Android 9 Pie, Google took to its official blog post to confirm that all the Android One devices will get the latest iteration of the OS. Also, it has been confirmed that the other smartphones those have joined to the Android P Beta program will receive the update end of this fall.

Google's blog post reads, "Starting today, an over-the-air update to Android 9 will begin rolling out to Pixel phones. And devices that participated in the Beta program from Sony Mobile, Xiaomi, HMD Global, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus and Essential, as well as all qualifying Android One devices, will receive this update by the end of this fall. We're also working with a number of other partners to launch or upgrade devices to Android 9 this year."

Nokia smartphones getting Android 9 Pie

Talking about the Nokia smartphones, the Android One devices from HMD such as Nokia 6.1, Nokia 6.1 Plus, Nokia 7 Plus, Nokia 8 Sirocco, Nokia 2.1, Nokia 3.1, and Nokia 5.1 will receive the Android 9 Pie update first.

Besides the Android One smartphones, even the other Nokia smartphones such as the ones launched in 2017 will get the update. Earlier this year, Neil Broadley, the global market manager at HMD Global revealed that the entire Nokia portfolio will receive the Android P update. This includes the older smartphones such as Nokia 1, Nokia 2, Nokia 3, Nokia 5, Nokia 6, Nokia 7 and Nokia 8. Back in 2017, the company had confirmed that all its smartphones will receive two years of OS support. So, the Nougat phones were known to receive support until this year.

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Pocophone F1: How and why is this a Xiaomi smartphone? News oi-Vivek Pocophone F1 has an identical camera setup as of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro

There are numerous leaks and speculations regarding the alleged "Xiaomi Pocophone F1, the next affordable flagship smartphone from the maker of Xiaomi Mi MIX 2s and the Xiaomi Mi 8. Here are the interesting findings of the Pocophone F1.

A smartphone startup under Xiaomi?

Just like the Black Shark smartphone, which is the first gaming smartphone from a Xiaomi backed brand, the Pocophone F1 could be another brand, which is meant to launch affordable smartphones. The company which is manufacturing the Pocophone F1 could be a part of team Xiaomi (Xiaomi being a shareholder) is the only possible way to connect the Pocophone F1 with Xiaomi.

However, until now, there are numerous leaks and speculations about the PocoPhone F1 and all the leaked images have product details like the basic specifications written in English, which is a strange thing. As, if it is a Xiaomi owned brand, the Pocophone should launch in China and the English text found on the sticker and retail package does confirm that the device will not launch in China.

The recently leaked retail package box and the sticker on the display of the smartphone do confirm some of the basic specifications of the smartphone. The retail box does mention that the smartphone is manufactured by Xiaomi Communications Co., Ltd.

In terms of design, the Xiaomi Pocophone F1 has an almost identical design as of the Xiaomi Mi 8 (on the front) and on the back, the device has a strange design, which does look similar to the OnePlus 6. Instead of a glass design, the Poco moniker has a metal unibody design with a rear-facing fingerprint sensor.

An international model?

As Xiaomi recently launched the Xiaomi Mi A2 and the Xiaomi Mi A2 Lite with stock Android OS in Europe, the company might introduce the Pocophone brand exclusively for the international market (except China).

Pocophone F1 specifications

According to the leaked images of the Pocophone F1, the smartphone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 with 6 GB RAM and 64 GB storage. The smartphone also has a taller display with a notch on the top of the smartphone with a resolution of 2246 x 1080px.

In terms of camera capability, the device has a dual camera setup with a 12 MP + 5 MP camera setup with a 20 MP front-facing camera. Do note that the camera set up on the Pocophone F1 is identical to the one found on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro.

Conclusion

The Pocophone F1 could be the next big affordable smartphone that could launch in India. However, there isn't enough evidence to prove that the Pocophone F1 is a product of Xiaomi. Xiaomi already has a numerous number of sub-brands like Redmi, MI, and MIX. Why does a company need another sub-brand?

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Immature ecosystem for 5G does not make a strong business case for the spectrum purchase: Ind-Ra News oi-Priyanka The firm also pointed out that Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited's all-IP data network, along with the latest 4G LTE technology, makes it future-ready, as it can support the 5G technology.

The already high leverage levels of telecom companies and their existing capex priorities would constrain their participation in the 5G spectrum auctions, despite the low recommended reserve prices, research firm India Ratings said.

The research firm on Tuesday said that the immature ecosystem for 5G does not make a strong business case for the spectrum purchase.

The operators' ability to re-farm existing spectrum holdings to 5G from 2G, 3G and 4G would be another factor affecting the relative levels of 5G spectrum's supply and demand.

The firm also pointed out that Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited's all-IP data network, along with the latest 4G LTE technology, makes it future-ready, as it can support the 5G technology.

Meanwhile, the parent company Reliance Industries Limited continues to provide tangible support to Reliance Jio for its debt servicing, on the other hand, Sunil Mittal - led Bharti Airtel Limited had a net debt/EBITDA ratio of 3.6x in 1QFY19.

Vodafone India Limited and Idea Cellular Limited on a combined basis had a pro forma net debt/EBITDA position of 10x in FYE18.

In the upcoming auction 7,462MHz of the total spectrum is recommended to be put on the block, which is 3.2x of the supply offered for the auction in October 2016. The spectrum which is now proposed for auction is more than the total spectrum held by the industry, which will make its offtake difficult.

TRAI also recommends that the reserve price of the 700MHz band should be equal to 2x of reserve price of the 1,800MHz spectrum band. This is 42 percent lower than the price for 700Mhz in the earlier auction

The price for 2,100Mhz airwaves is also 56 percent lower than the previous auction reserve price. TRAI recommends that the reserve price of the 3,300-3,600MHz band should be equal to 30 percent of the reserve price of 1,800MHz FDD band.

The firm said 3,300-3,600Mhz bands of spectrum, also known as mid-bands, have been globally identified as primary bands for 5G and have already been assigned in a number of global markets.

Moreover, 5G standards are still in development stage and the technology/device eco-system is evolving.

Therefore, TRAI has not prescribed coverage related rollout obligations. However, to avoid any misuse of not mandating any rollout obligations, the lock-in period for spectrum in this band for becoming eligible for spectrum trading is recommended to be longer at five years instead of two years.

Spectrum in the 3,300-3,600MHz band should be put to auction in the block size of 20MHz. To avoid monopolization of this band, there is also a recommendation to cap 100MHz/bidder as the maximum bidding limit, India Ratings said.

TRAI recommends that the average expected the valuation of spectrum band should be the higher of the average expected value of that band based on simple mean or the auction-determined price of October 2016.

TRAI has relied upon market discovered prices of a comparable spectrum band and applied a technical efficiency factor to arrive at the valuation of the spectrum bands being put to auction for the first time.

The 700MHz spectrum band is regarded as both CAPEX and OPEX efficient for LTE networks in comparison to deployment for higher spectrum bands.

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U.S. Air Force Pilots Help Guard Iceland's Skies

Aug. 6, 2018

By Air Force Staff Sgt. Alex Echols

48th Fighter Wing

KEFLAVIK AIR BASE, Iceland -- Air Force F-15 Eagle pilots are helping to guard the skies over Iceland for the eleventh time since NATO's Icelandic Air Surveillance mission began.

The 493rd Expeditionary Fighter Squadron began flying operations here this week in support of the mission, highlighting America's commitment to NATO and the strength of its ties with Iceland. The squadron is tasked with supplying airborne surveillance and interception capabilities to meet its host's peacetime preparedness needs and bolster the security and defense of allied nations.

During their rotation, the squadron will maintain an alert status 24 hours a day, seven days a week as part of their peacetime mission. This means they are ready to respond within minutes to any aircraft that may not properly identify themselves, communicate with air traffic control or have a flight path on file.

Strengthening NATO Partnerships

"This deployment gives us the opportunity to strengthen our NATO partnerships and alliances and train in a different location while continuing to improve our readiness and capability for our alert commitment," said Air Force Lt. Col. Cody Blake, 493rd EFS commander. "Our overall expectation is to maintain a professional presence in everything we do."

To remain vigilant, the squadron performs daily "training scrambles" in which they simulate real-world alert notification and execute planned protocols to ensure a speedy response.

More than 250 airmen assigned to U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa and 13 F-15C/D Eagles deployed from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, with additional support from U.S. airmen assigned to Aviano Air Base, Italy. Four of the aircraft are tasked with direct support of the Icelandic Air Surveillance mission, while the additional nine aircraft will conduct training missions, providing pilots invaluable experience operating in unfamiliar airspace.

While providing critical infrastructure and support, Iceland has looked to its NATO allies to provide airborne surveillance and interception capabilities to meet its peacetime preparedness needs since 2008.

"Every year, we experience how qualified the air forces of the NATO nations are and how well trained they are to conduct the mission," said Icelandic Coast Guard Capt. Jon B. Gudnason, Keflavik Air Base commander. "This is what makes NATO such a great partner."

NATO allies deploy aircraft and personnel to support this critical mission three times a year, with the U.S. responsible for at least one rotation annually. So far, nine nations have held the reigns in support of Iceland: Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Portugal and the U.S.

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US Soldiers hone small tactics operations alongside European allies during Noble Partner exercise

By Sgt. Kris Bonet August 6, 2018

VAZIANI TRAINING AREA, Georgia -- U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment conducted small unit tactics with Georgian Army observers as part of Exercise Noble Partner 18 here, Aug. 3.

Exercise Noble Partner 18 is a cooperatively-led Georgian Armed Forces and U.S. Army Europe multinational training exercise in its fourth iteration. The exercise aims to enhance regional partner and U.S. readiness in a multinational environment.

The cavalry troop trained with Georgian Army observers on dismounting an M1126 Infantry Carrier Vehicle, moving to a local support-by-fire position, reacting to contact, and executing a squad attack to knockout a bunker.

"We're trying to get back to the small unit level training again so that a squad, a nine-man team, has the opportunity to come out here and train in an environment that they've never trained in before," said U.S. Army Capt. Sean Keeler, troop commander with the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment. "We're giving the squad leaders additional assets they wouldn't normally have to stress their systems and challenge their leadership."

2nd Cavalry Regiment is no stranger to training in Europe, as the unit succesfully completed training missions earlier this year alongside Polish forces at the Bemowo Piskie Training Area.

"Training in Europe presents a unique opportunity that we are not able to get as much as we would like to in the States," said Keeler. "It's so accessible to just go to a different country and work with allies and partners in multiple different locations. It keeps challenging [our] leadership, from small unit leaders all the way up to senior-level leadership."

Georgian Army observers in the area kept a close eye on the training.

"This multinational military exercise is going to help us increase interoperability and readiness between the partner countries and is going to help us provide security and peace not only in the region, but also in the entire world," said Georgian Army 2nd Lt. Zurab Batilashvili, personnel chief with the Multinational Battalion.

Lightning Troop, along with other elements of 2nd Cavalry Regiment, are scheduled to conduct additional training for the duration of Noble Partner 2018.

"Its very meaningul for the country, [and] it's very important. I would say it's crucial for the units because at the end of the training the troops are more confident," said Batilashvili. "I'm glad having you here, Americans ... because the partnership between our countries is noticeable and remarkable and I think it's gonna get deeper."

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Pakistan, India briefly open southern border after 12 years

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Islamabad, Aug 6, IRNA -- Pakistan and India have opened the border crossing at Khokhrapar-Munabao zero point to repatriate the dead body of an Indian woman who had died during a visit to Pakistan, local media reported.

The Indian High Commission in Islamabad in a statement thanked Pakistani authorities for facilitating the repatriation process.

"Indian citizen Reshma's mortal remains were repatriated to her family in Barmer. A big thank you to authorities in Pakistan and India who made a special exemption to open gates and allowed on foot crossover at Khokhrapar-Munabao railway crossing," the high commission said.

Reshma, 65, had come to Pakistan on June 30 to visit her sister. She was accompanied by her son and was scheduled to return on July 28. However, she died on July 25 after a brief illness.

Her family then wanted to bury her in her hometown in Rajasthan, but got entangled in formalities.

In a rare episode in the tense Indo-Pak relations, gates of the Khokhrapar-Munabao border were opened to take her body. Reshma's body was handed over by Pakistan Rangers to India's Border Security Force.

The border at Khokhrapar-Munabao was opened in 2006 for some Hindu pilgrims who had wanted to visit Mata Temple in Lasbela, Balochistan and since then the border has remained closed with the Thar Express being the sole means of transportation between the two rival countries.

272**6125**1420

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5 Saudi military personnel killed in western Yemen

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Aug 6, IRNA -- Five Saudi servicemen were killed in the western coast of Yemen, Almasirah news network said on its website Sunday.

The Saudi servicemen were killed in the western coast of Yemen near AL-Hudaydah port, Almasirah said without explaining the details of their death, the Islamic Republic News Agency reported.

Meanwhile, the Yemeni armed forces and popular committees announced in a statement that they had taken captive 150 mercenaries including several field commanders in their operations in Ad Darimi town, south of Al-Hudaydah port.

Based on statistics released by Yemeni sources, 247 Saudi troops have been killed by Yemeni snipers and popular committees since the start of the aggression by Saudi Arabia and some of its Arab allies on Yemen in 2015.

In the same period, Saudi forces have lost 1,200 tanks and armored vehicles, 12 Apache combat helicopters, five F-16 jet fighters, 20 spy drones and 10 warships.

Since March 2015, Saudi Arabia and some of its Arab allies have been carrying out deadly, indiscriminate airstrikes on civilians in an attempt to restore power to fugitive president, Abd-Rabbuh Mansur Hadi, a close ally of Riyadh.

Thousands of Yemenis, including women and children, have been killed and 22,000 others wounded in the deadly Saudi aggression.

1396**1396

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Burlington (EPF 10) Successfully Completes Acceptance Trials

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS180806-01

Release Date: 8/6/2018 9:32:00 AM

From Team Ships Public Affairs

MOBILE, Ala. (NNS) -- The Navy's 10th Expeditionary Fast Transport ship, Burlington, successfully completed Acceptance Trials, Aug. 3 after two days of underway evaluation in the Gulf of Mexico.

The ship successfully demonstrated the readiness of its equipment and systems for operations, both dockside and underway, for the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey. The ship returned to the Austal USA shipyard and will now begin preparations for delivery to the Navy later this year.

"Acceptance trials are a major step towards delivering Burlington to the Navy," said Capt. Scot Searles, Strategic and Theater Sealift program manager, Program Executive Office (PEO) Ships. "The ship performed very well this week, which is a great reflection of the commitment of our industry and government team to delivering quality ships."

EPFs are versatile, non-combatant vessels designed to operate in shallow-draft ports and waterways, increasing operational flexibility for a wide range of activities including maneuver and sustainment, relief operations in small or damaged ports, flexible logistics support, or as the key enabler for rapid transport.

They are capable of interfacing with roll-on/roll-off discharge facilities, as well as on/off-loading vehicles such as a fully combat-loaded Abrams Main Battle Tank. Each vessel includes a flight deck to support day and night aircraft launch and recovery operations. Burlington will have airline-style seating for 312 embarked forces with fixed berthing for 104. Also under construction at Austal are future Puerto Rico (EPF 11) and Newport (EPF 12).

As one of the Defense Department's largest acquisition organizations, PEO Ships is responsible for executing the development and procurement of all destroyers, amphibious ships, sealift ships, support ships, boats, and craft.

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Ethiopia's violence kills civilians, displaces thousands

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 06:22PM

Violence in Ethiopia's eastern Somali region has reportedly left an unknown number of civilians dead and thousands of others displaced over the weekend.

The patriarchy of Ethiopia's Orthodox Church in the regional capital Jijiga, where thousands have sought refuge, reported the news to state media on Monday, without providing details on what had sparked the clashes as well as numbers of the dead and displaced.

The violence, however, seems to have broken out after the presence of government troops in several towns that led to clashes with mobs looting and burning property and shops owned by ethnic minorities in the region.

Abune Mathias, patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, said churches and priests had been harmed in the violence.

"A total of seven churches were set ablaze and priests killed in the attacks. Civilians were also killed and thousands displaced," Abune Mathias told state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporate.

Ethiopia's Defense Ministry had confirmed the deployment of soldiers in a statement at the weekend.

"The violence has not been halted despite attempts by defense forces and other security forces to restore calm," the ministry said on Saturday. "Hence, as the region's peace and security have come under threat, our defense forces will not remain silent in the face of unrest and chaos and will take necessary measures in accordance with constitutional obligations."

The Somali region has seen sporadic violence for three decades. The government has fought the rebel Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) since 1984 after the group launched a bid for secession of the Somali region, also known as Ogaden.

Since 2017, clashes along the region's border with Oromiya Province have displaced tens of thousands of people.

In July, the region's officials were accused by the government in Addis Ababa of committing rights abuses. Last month, authorities fired senior prison officials there over allegations of torture.



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Yemeni forces hit Saudi military base in Jizan with ballistic missile: Report

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 06:15PM

Yemeni army forces, backed by allied fighters from Popular Committees, have fired a short-range domestically-manufactured missile at a Saudi military base in the kingdom's southwestern Jizan province, in retaliation for the Saudi regime's campaign against the impoverished country.

Yemen's Arabic-language al-Masirah television network, citing a military source, reported that the Zelzal-1 missile, with an average range of 150 kilometers, was launched against a military base in the al-Khobe district, on Monday.

The report added that the missile was aimed at a gathering of Saudi soldiers in the area, but did not said the number of possible casualties and the extent of damage the projectile inflicted on the base.

Separately, Yemeni snipers managed to shoot dead a Saudi trooper in Jabal al-Doud district in the same province, al-Masirah said, adding that three other Saudi soldiers had been killed by Yemeni sharpshooters in Jazan's al-Mash'al military base.

Meanwhile, Ansarullah news portal reported that Yemeni army forces destroyed at least one military vehicle after the targeted with rocket fire west of al-Sadis military base in Saudi Arabia's southern province of Najran. The reported added that all Saudi soldiers onboard the vehicle had been killed in the attack.

Saudi Arabia and some of its allies launched a brutal war, code-named Operation Decisive Storm, against Yemen in March 2015 in an attempt to reinstall Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi, Yemen's former president and a staunch ally of Riyadh, and crush the Houthi Ansarullah movement.

The movement, which is a significant aid to the Yemeni army in defending the country against the invading forces, has been running state affairs in the absence of an effective administration during the past three years.

The imposed war initially consisted of a bombing campaign but was later coupled with a naval blockade and the deployment of ground forces into Yemen.

Some 15,000 Yemenis have been killed and thousands more injured since the onset of the Saudi-led aggression.

The Saudi-led aggression has also taken a heavy toll on the country's infrastructure, destroying many hospitals, schools, and factories. The United Nations has already said that a record 22.2 million Yemenis are in dire need of food, including 8.4 million threatened by severe hunger.

Several Western countries, the United States and Britain in particular, are also accused of being complicit in the ongoing aggression as they supply the Riyadh regime with advanced weapons and military equipment as well as logistical and intelligence assistance.

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Jordan, Iraq ink security deal but still face rocky road

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 09:29AM

Jordan and Iraq have signed a military and security cooperation agreement after years of stormy ties which saw Daesh terrorists gain control of their joint border and cut vital trade to a bare minimum.

Jordan's Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Lt. General Mahmoud Abdul Halim Freihat and Iraqi Defense Minister Irfan Mahmoud Al Hayali oversaw the signing of the agreement in Amman Sunday, Petra news agency reported.

"The agreement aims to exchange expertise and information on border protection, as well as improving intelligence capabilities and combating terrorism in all its forms," the report said.

The two sides also agreed to increase joint military exercises, boost research and technology development and hold joint courses in security and military fields.

The vast desert Province of Anbar on the 180 km border with Jordan became a historic hotbed of the Takfiri militancy sparked by the 2003 US invasion of Iraq.

Before that Iraq was the kingdom's main export market, accounting for almost a fifth of Jordan's exports or about $1.2 billion a year, according to the International Monetary Fund.

Last August, Jordan opened its main border crossing with Iraq for the first time since 2015 after Iraqi forces gained control of the main highway to Baghdad.

The Tureibil post is crossed by the 550 km highway to Baghdad, connecting Iraq's Basra port in the south to Jordan, where the Red Sea port of Aqaba has long served as a gateway for Iraqi imports coming from Europe.

Although the highway has been secured after driving out Daesh, the threat of hit-and-run attacks on convoys and the army are ever present and there have been several attacks near al-Rutba town, the last town before the border with Jordan.

Iraqi authorities have reportedly awarded a contract to a US security company that would employ a local force to secure the highway.

History of mistakes

Jordan's former prime minister Hani al-Mulki visited Baghdad early last year to revive an oil pipeline project running from Basra to Aqaba.

Amman has hoped that the opening of export routes would save its debt-ridden economy which has been badly hit by prolonged conflicts in neighboring Syria and Iraq.

The kingdom has been rocked by its worst protests in years over a controversial tax system backed by the IMF from which the country secured a $723-million loan in 2016.

Jordan's King Abdullah II swore in a new government in June after Mulki stepped down under pressure from protesters who blamed his government for worsening poverty and unemployment.

The kingdom, however, has a rocky road ahead for a full normalization with Iraq.

Many Iraqis hold a dim view of Jordan, believing it did not do enough to stem the flow of militants entering Iraq and seizing a third of the country. They are also unhappy with Jordan having given sanctuary to Saddam Hussein's daughters.

King Abdullah was the first Arab leader to claim a "Shia Crescent" in the making in late 2004, meaning there was a strategic arc running from Iran through Iraq and Syria to Lebanon.

The allegation riled many Iraqi leaders and those in neighboring countries, who believed the remarks played a second fiddle to a campaign to stoke up sectarian strife in the region.

Jordan had its best special ties with Iraq under former dictator Saddam Hussein who provided the kingdom with cheap oil in return for access to Aqaba which became a lifeline for Iraq's oil revenues as the war with Iran rendered shipping through the Persian Gulf impossible.

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Pentagon Restricts the Use of Fitness Apps and Trackers for Soldiers

Sputnik News

21:46 06.08.2018

The new rules come after several scandals where fitness apps, gathering information on people's training sessions, revealed the location and approximate personnel numbers of several secret US military sites.

The Pentagon has issued a new order that limits the use of fitness trackers for its military personnel on bases, the Associated Press reported. Under the new rules, troops and staff at secret bases and at bases located in warzones will be completely barred from using devices and phone applications that gather personal data and that could reveal a user's location.

"These geolocation capabilities can expose personal information, locations, routines, and numbers of DOD personnel, and potentially create unintended security consequences and increased risk to the joint force and mission," the memo said.

However, the fate of fitness trackers on less vulnerable and secretive bases will depend on the decisions of the commanders as to whether such devices and apps pose a threat to the bases' personnel.

Many smartphone fitness applications use special trackers and geolocation data to keep track of a user's training sessions and to record the data for leaderboards and other social features. This function sparked controversy after the company Strava, which developed such an app, published a Global Heat Map showing of the activity of its users on a world map.

It drew the attention of the public and researchers when certain areas in war-torn countries were well lit, even when cities remained "dark." This led to the conclusion that these areas could be home to military bases belonging to the US and other countries, where personnel could be using the tracking devices during their training sessions.

 Sputnik

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Caspian Sea Convention to Ban Military Presence of Non-Littoral States in Region

Sputnik News

13:25 06.08.2018

BAKU (Sputnik) - The principle of non-presence of armed forces not belonging to the five Caspian countries is one of the agreed provisions of the Convention on the Legal Status of the Caspian Sea, which is expected to be signed at a summit in Kazakhstan later in August, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov told Sputnik on Monday.

The presidents of the five states bordering the Caspian Sea will meet in Kazakhstan on August 12 to sum up the multi-year talks on determining the legal status of the disputed body of water and sign a convention concluding the matter.

"The sides signing such a document thereby endorse provisions stipulated in it and undertake commitments under it. On the basis of the universal principle 'Pacta sunt servanda' [agreements must be kept], we should firmly adhere to the provisions, stipulated in the convention. Non-presence of armed forces of non-littoral countries in the Caspian is one such agreed point. In general, the document declares the Caspian a zone of peace, good-neighborliness, friendship and cooperation," Mammadyarov said.

According to Mammadyarov, the Caspian Sea "should remain a bridge" which connects the coastal states, expanding their opportunities and creating adequate conditions for the development of their national economies.

He noted that the Caspian nations had created effective infrastructure and an appropriate investment climate in the region. The minister also stressed that the countries were looking forward to boosting cooperation on the basis of existing confidence-building measures and partner-like dialogue.

The littoral states  Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia and Turkmenistan  have been discussing the legal status of the sea for over 20 years. The main difficulty in determining the status is linked to its recognition as a lake or a sea, the divisions of which are regulated by different provisions of international law.

On December 5, following a ministerial-level meeting of the Caspian nations, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that work on the convention had virtually been completed, and its draft was expected to be submitted for the Caspian leaders' approval in Kazakhstan in the first half of 2018.

 Sputnik

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South Sudan peace deal a 'big step forward': UN mission chief

6 August 2018 - There was jubilation in the streets of South Sudan's capital overnight on Sunday, as residents celebrated a new agreement that the top UN official in the country has described as "a big step forward" towards ending nearly five years of brutal conflict.

President Salva Kiir together with his chief rival and former deputy, Riek Machar, signed the deal on Sunday in neighbouring Sudan, alongside members of other opposition factions.

David Shearer, head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), explained that it centres on the issue of governance, with Mr. Kiir retaining his position while Mr. Machar will be named the first of five vice-presidents.

"The deal is a big step forward in terms of bringing peace in South Sudan," he told UN News, speaking from the capital, Juba, on Monday.

"What it has as yet to do  and the negotiations are ongoing  is how are they going to organize the security on the ground for all of those people, and how is the army going to be reformed: how are they going to bring the fighting groups into the same army?"

He said that there were "a host of other issues" to be resolved, such as future and economic humanitarian policies and programmes. "So, it's very much a starting point but it's a starting point which I think a lot of us didn't think we would see perhaps two months ago."

At just seven years old, South Sudan is the world's youngest nation. However, a December 2013 political impasse between the two rivals, plunged the country into deadly conflict.

Tens of thousands have been killed while more than 4 million have been displaced, some 2 million of whom have fled to neighbouring States.

Mr. Shearer pointed out that the negotiations in Khartoum were led by Sudan and Uganda: two countries he described as having "the greatest to gain and to lose", depending on what happens in South Sudan.

Previous peace talks were spearheaded by the East African regional body, IGAD  the Intergovernmental Authority on Development.

Asked about the prospects for this latest deal, the UN mission chief sided with the optimism expressed by citizens in the capital, including nearly 40,000 displaced people at a UN protection camp near his home who were "partying" on Sunday night.

"Our job in the UN is to be as supportive as we possibly can to this agreement," he stated.

"There's only one agreement on the table. It's this one. And we've got to try and make this work," he added.

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Afghan Government Under Fire for Rescuing Islamic State Militants

By Ayaz Gul August 06, 2018

Officials in Afghanistan have vowed to bring to justice perpetrators of "war crimes" among scores of Islamic State militants who recently surrendered to the government in northern Jowzjan province to avoid being captured by the Taliban.

The top commander of the self-proclaimed Islamic State Khorsan Province, or IS-K, in northern Afghanistan, Mawlawi Habib Rahman, along with his 250 fighters, turned themselves in last week in the Darzab and Qush Tepa districts.

The Afghan government has since been criticized for its unexplained action of providing asylum and protection to IS-K militants, accused by residents of committing serious crimes against innocent civilians while running strongholds in the two isolated Jowzjan districts for three years.

The IS-K group is also accused of kidnapping and killing six staff members of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in February 2017.

Afghan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah on Monday responded to the criticism, saying "war criminals" among the fighters will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

"Surrender does not mean that if they [IS-K] have committed crimes and when they have nowhere to go and they come to the government for shelter they must not expect their crimes will be ignored," Abdullah assured a bi-weekly ministerial meeting in Kabul.

A month-long Taliban offensive demolished IS-K bases in Qush Tepa and Darzab, killing and capturing scores of members of the rival group. The onslaught cornered Rahman and his remaining IS-K fighters, forcing them to reach out directly to Afghan government, seeking protection from the Taliban.

Afghan forces swiftly responded and evacuated the IS-K fighters to the government controlled Darzab district center on August 1, media reports quoted tribal elders and villagers as saying.

Crimes to be prosecuted

Provincial authorities told reporters at the time that detainees not involved in crimes will be freed under a general government amnesty plan, though President Ashraf Ghani has repeatedly ruled out amnesty for Islamic State loyalists in the country, declaring them as foreign terrorists.

The controversial amnesty law marginalizes victims, overlooking their right to justice, said observers with the Kabul-based independent Afghanistan Analysts Network in an article on the questionable surrender of IS-K fighters in the northern province.

The research group noted amnesties for war crimes and gross human rights violations are no longer considered legal under international law.

"In this case, given that the self-proclaimed IS-K fighters and leaders were forced to surrender, rather than willingly leaving the insurgency, it would be especially strange if the government did grant amnesties," said AAN.

The watchdog noted in its detailed study the Afghan government has carried out no full-scale offensive against IS-K in the two districts in Jowzjan, encouraging the group to recruit fighters and survive for three years.

"Neither its long inaction or its decision, in the end, to take action to rescue the remnants of the group have been explained," AAN lamented.

Jowzjan borders neighboring Turkmenistan and the emergence of IS militants in the area has been a cause of concern for Central Asian neighbors of Afghanistan and Russia, as well.

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Admiral to VOA: US 'Consistency' Counters Chinese Aggression in South China Sea

By Carla Babb August 06, 2018

The U.S. response to China's controversial actions in the South China Sea is "consistency," the Navy's top admiral said.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with VOA, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson said the United States Navy has been "at about the same force levels" in the South China Sea for about 70 years.

"Nothing has elevated too much or decreased too much. We've been pretty steady," he said.

China and the U.S. strongly disagree on territorial claims in the sea's international waterways.

China considers much of the sea its territory  overlapping with the territorial claims of other nations  and has created hundreds of hectares of artificial islands to bolster is territorial claims.

The U.S. frequently conducts freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea to dispute China's claims and to promote free passage through international waters that carry half the world's merchant fleet tonnage, worth trillions of dollars each year.

Richardson said the U.S. Navy has advocated rules and norms that have "fueled the emergence of the Asian economies."

"We're going to consistently be there," Richardson said, "and we'll be ready to advocate for those up and down the spectrum of competition, as needed."

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South Sudan Peace Deal Can Work - if Leaders Can Cooperate

By Mohammed Yusuf August 06, 2018

South Sudan leaders agreed to end hostilities Sunday in the latest attempt to end the country's five-year civil war, which has killed tens of thousands of people. Some analysts say the deal will succeed only if the country's political leaders can finally find a way to work together.

South Sudanese leaders have once again agreed to end the war and work towards peace. East African head of states gathered Sunday in Khartoum to witness the signing of a new peace deal between the government of President Salva Kiir, rebel leader Riek Machar and other opposition groups.

The sides all agreed to end hostilities and to work together in a transitional government scheduled to last for three years.

Speaking in Khartoum Sunday, Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta congratulated the political leaders of South Sudan.

"I commend all of you for concluding the discussion on the critical issue of security and governance," said Kenyatta. "These two are critical for peace and stability in South Sudan. We stand with you because today history beacons you to seize the opportunity offered here in Khartoum to marshal your commitment and drive and claim the future of South Sudan as one people."

The agreement returns Riek Machar from exile to the post of first vice president, and four more vice presidents will also be appointed. The document signed by the leaders says the president will collaborate, but will have duties and powers in accordance with a 2015 peace deal.

The 2015 agreement allows the president to consult with people like Machar, but final decisions rest with Kiir.

Kwaje Lasu is a spokesman for the South Sudan Opposition Alliance, which consists of nine parties. His group also signed the peace deal. He says good governance can save the deal.

"It's not even that long as an independent nation, but we have been through a lot, and our people have suffered. But because of those pillars that are holding the building is very weak, what I mean by that institutional reforms, justice, and accountability, the rule of law, giving the people what they deserve in terms of governance all this component of the government determine the viability of this agreement," said Lasu.

Political observers in the region have questioned the will of Kiir and Machar to work together in peace.

The 2015 peace deal collapsed just a year later when a flare-up of violence in Juba left hundreds dead and prompted Machar to flee the country.

Commentator Fulbert Namwamba says without adequate security it will be difficult for Machar to work.

"Machar would like to work with Kiir, but the problem is that the circumstances under which he left Juba is such that there have to be a guarantee that he can bring his army to Juba and then he has to be within his barrack, otherwise he becomes a sitting duck in a country that is unpredictable," said Namwamba.

The civil war has uprooted more than 4 million South Sudanese civilians from their homes.

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President of Ethiopia's Turbulent Somali Region Resigns

By Harun Maruf August 06, 2018

The president of Ethiopia's turbulent Somali region has resigned, following violence in the regional capital killed at least 29 people.

Abdi Mohamoud Omar stepped down from his post Monday, according to two senior regional officials, including Khadar Abdi Ismail, an ally of Omar.

"Yes, there has been a change [of leadership]. The former president has handed over his responsibilities to Ahmed Abdi Mohamed," Ismail told VOA's Somali service. "That change has taken place peacefully, the former president has been working for the interest of the people, and now he handed over in consideration of the interest of the public."

The new president, Mohamed, previously served as regional finance minister.

Meanwhile, state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporation has reported that the Ethiopian army has been ordered to enter the Somali regional state to "restore order."

Witnesses in Jigjiga have confirmed that large columns of Ethiopian military vehicles entered the regional capital, Jigjiga, on Monday.

Regional officials said on Sunday 29 people were killed during Saturday's violence in Jigjiga.

Fighting broke out Friday after an apparent rift between local authorities and the central Ethiopian government.

Ismail blamed the deaths on federal forces and said the violence was sparked by public anger over "the illegal entry of the dangerously armed troops" into the city.

The government recently accused regional officials of carrying out human rights abuses.

Ethiopia's Somali region was the first area visited by new Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed after he was selected by the ruling party last April

At the time of the visit, Ahmed was trying to ease tensions between the ethnic Somali and Oromo communities, which have been engaged in deadly tit-for-tat attacks that have claimed the lives of dozens of people.



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Russian Prime Minister Warns NATO Against Accepting Georgia

Sputnik News

02:24 07.08.2018

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  NATO should not accept Georgia as its member because it might lead to a military conflict since Moscow recognizes the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, which Tbilisi considers its territory, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said.

The prime minister recalled NATO's recent statement that Georgia would become the alliance's member.

"It is an absolutely irresponsible position. It is just a threat to peace. This can undoubtedly lead to a potential conflict because we consider Abkhazia and South Ossetia independent states. We have friendly relations with these states. Our military bases are located there," Medvedev said in an interview with Russia's Kommersant newspaper.

The Russian prime minister noted that NATO's decision to accept Georgia might lead to very grave consequences.

"That is why I hope that NATO's leadership will be smart enough not to make any moves in this direction," Medvedev noted.

Tuesday marks the 10th anniversary of the beginning of a military conflict between Moscow and Georgia, after which Russia formally recognized the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Both republics proclaimed their independence from Georgia back in the early 1990s.

The Prime Minister also said that Russia would welcome the restoration of diplomatic ties with Georgia if Tbilisi shows readiness to do so.

"We are ready to build relations with the new [Georgian] leadership If our Georgian colleagues are ready to do this, we will not object," Medvedev said.

Georgia cut diplomatic ties with Russia in 2008.

 Sputnik

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US B-52 Bombers Buzz East China Sea

Sputnik News

01:27 07.08.2018(updated 01:41 07.08.2018)

US Air Force B-52 bombers flew over the South China Sea in the vicinity of Japan in early August, according to a recent military statement from US Indo-Pacific Command, as part of a joint training mission with US Navy forces.

Two B-52 Stratofortress bombers from the Air Force and two P-8 Poseidon aircraft from the Navy conducted flights over the region to improve "joint force integration," US Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs said August 3. The flights occurred August 1, they said.

Since 2004, the US Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), formerly just PACOM, have conducted what's called a "Continuous Bomber Presence" (CBP) program, the statement says.

According to USINDOPACOM, the drills were conducted inside the legal space carved out by international laws, a space it called "vital to the principles that are the foundation of the rules-based global operating system."

The flights may have carried on for more than a day, as pictures from the Air Force dated August 2 show a B-52 being refueled.

According to publicly available US government news announcements, the B-52 aircraft flew to the East China Sea after taking off from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana. After conducting the routine training mission the planes landed at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, a US territory in Micronesia.

In June, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying did not seem receptive to the presence of American bombers over the nearby South China Sea. "Running amok is risky," she told reporters.

"China won't be scared by any so-called military ship or aircraft and we will only even more staunchly [take] all necessary steps to defend the country's sovereignty and stability, to protect the peace and stability of the South China Sea," the spokeswoman said.

The US has repeatedly criticized Beijing for militarizing disputed areas of the South China Sea by erecting military infrastructure on island chains also claimed by several other nations. Early in June, after another B-52 foray into the region, Hua told reporters during a regular briefing: "I hope the US can make it clear whether it considers sending offensive strategic weapons like B-52 bombers to the South China Sea as militarization If you often have someone coming to your door heavily armed, shouldn't you strengthen your security and defense capabilities?"

 Sputnik

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California Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISIS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, August 6, 2018



Everitt Aaron Jameson, 27, of Modesto, California, was sentenced today to 15 years in prison, and a life term of supervised release, for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers, U.S. Attorney McGregor W. Scott for the Eastern District of California, and Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan of the FBI's Sacramento Field Office made the announcement. The sentence was issued by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. O'Neill.

"There is no place in the United States for terrorists and terrorist sympathizers who threaten innocent people, and the National Security Division will relentlessly seek to identify them and bring them to justice," said Assistant Attorney General Demers. "Jameson put his fellow Americans at risk by supporting ISIS and planning an attack on behalf of the terrorist organization. This is unacceptable, and I am grateful for the hardworking agents and prosecutors who are responsible for this successful result."

"This case demonstrates the FBI's commitment to identifying and disrupting plots to harm the American public. With assistance from our state and local partners, we completed a thorough investigation while ensuring that Jameson would not be able to carry out his plans," said Special Agent in Charge Ragan. "The public also plays an active role in ensuring the safety of our communities. We encourage members of the public to always say something if they see or hear anything that raises concerns about a possible attack."

Jameson pleaded guilty on June 4. According to the plea agreement, between September 2017 and Dec. 20, 2017, Jameson voiced support for ISIS knowing that the organization was engaging in terrorist activity and terrorism. Among other things, he had several online interactions with a confidential source, and during those interactions, he stated that he was committed wholeheartedly to "the cause." Jameson also expressed support online for the Oct. 31, 2017, terrorist attack in New York City, as well as other terrorist attacks.

In subsequent communications with an undercover agent, Jameson stated that he was ready to do whatever they needed done here and noted that his time in the military had trained him for combat and war. According to court documents, Jameson joined the Marine Corps and received basic training, including earning a sharpshooter rifle qualification, but was ultimately discharged for failing to disclose his asthma history.

Later, Jameson met with another undercover agent whom he believed to be associated with, and working for, the senior leadership of ISIS, and offered to carry out violent acts and provide financial support for the terrorist organization.

According to court documents, on Dec. 16, 2017, Jameson discussed what he could offer to the cause. Among other things, Jameson stated that he was well versed in the Anarchist Cookbook, and explained his desire to use explosives in an attack. He also noted that he could get PVC pipe, nails and powder for explosive devices, and asked for remote timing devices from that person. Jameson identified Pier 39 as a target location of an attack, noting that it was crowded and explosives could be used to funnel people into an area so that he could inflict casualties by shooting people trying to escape. Jameson also offered to provide money to the cause.

This case was the product of an investigation by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dawrence W. Rice Jr. and Christopher D. Baker of the Eastern District of California prosecuted the case with Trial Attorney Brenda Sue Thornton of the National Security Division's Counterterrorism Section.

Topic(s): Counterterrorism

Component(s): National Security Division (NSD)

USAO - California, Eastern

Press Release Number: 18-1022



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China solicits int'l cooperation experiments on space station

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 09:53, August 06, 2018

BEIJING, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- China is asking the world to collaborate in experiments on its planned space station so as to promote international space cooperation and sustainable global development.

The Committee on Science and Technology Experiments of the Chinese Space Station was established recently under the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST).

The offer is open to the entire international community. Proposals and projects can be submitted online (www.css-research.cn) and peer-reviewed. The candidate projects will go through to the China Manned Space Agency.

"We are looking forward to experiments to better sustain space exploration. We also expect China's space station to be an in-space incubator of new technologies that can improve people's lives," said Zhang Hongtai, president of CAST.

CAST might also provide opportunities to conduct some international cooperation experiments on other spacecraft or satellites, said Zhang.

"China is further opening up, and space exploration is a shared challenge for China and other countries. We hope to solicit and evaluate experiments with common international practices, and select the most promising and innovative projects. The research data will be shared by the international community," said Bao Weimin, chairman of the newly established committee and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

The committee comprises 14 Chinese scientists, and scientists from other countries are welcome to participate, Bao said. It is based in the Qian Xuesen Laboratory of Space Technology under CAST, which focuses on the development of new space technologies.

"We welcome scientists around the globe to submit projects or to become peer-review experts. We hope to have in-depth cooperation," said Chen Hong, head of the Qian Xuesen Laboratory.

"We'd like to provide engineering consultation and support for the international cooperation projects to ensure the implementation of cutting-edge experiments on the space station," said Long Jiang, head of the Institute of Manned Space System Engineering under CAST, the main manufacturer of China's space station.

To stimulate interest in young people and foster their imaginations and creativity, a special program, the Youth Program of Scientific Education Experiment on the Chinese Space Station, was launched at the beginning of 2018.

The program has collected nearly 200 youth education experiments nationwide, and selected a preliminary list of 30 projects. The program is mainly for primary and middle school students. "We also welcome young students from around the world to participate," said Yao Wei, a researcher at the Qian Xuesen Laboratory.

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President: Time limit for Europe still in effect

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Aug 6, IRNA -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Monday that the time limit Iran has given to Europe is still in effect and others, i.e. 1+4, are expected to compensate for the US pressures and preserve the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

In his live televised address, the President said Iran national interests are important.

'As far as foreign relations are concerned, our national interests are important. Of course, our ties with Russia and China, cannot be compared with those with Europe. The relations are times better. It is China that continues to work in the nuclear field in Arak reactor; it is China that is busy trading with us as our major trade partner. In talks with the Chinese officials on the sidelines of Shanghai session, they turned out to be committed to continue relations with Iran. There might be problems in terms of enforcement of commitments but both Chin and Russia explicitly say that they act on their commitments.

'We want good relations with all countries but under current conditions, Asian countries are of importance for us. The relations we have with China and ASEAN, including the amity agreement we signed, are expanding and there is no impediment on the way and we continue relations.'

Elsewhere in his remarks, President Rouhani said economic conditions are getting better in favor of economic activities.

1420**1396

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President: Europe standing up to US today

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Aug 6, IRNA -- President Hassan Rouhani said on Monday that Europe is today standing up to the US.

'Europe has today stood by Iran; the Europe which has always been the US ally. And today, we are not alone all over the world. All countries, except a few ones are supporting Iran. They consider Iran as a country which can be trusted under any commitment,' said the president in a televised address.

President Rouhani said, 'Politically speaking, in my opinion, Europeans did their best. They took stances; they made comments and devised regulations; They explicitly termed the US conduct as unacceptable; Not only they (Europeans) but also the rest of the world did the same way; However, they should make plans in practice specifying the ways to compensate.'

He said Iran held talks in Europe and also with China and Russia. 'All of these have promised not to pay attention to sanctions; the problem is the companies that are under the US pressure; so, in my opinion, we are waiting for practical actions on the part of Europe. The meeting, which is to be held in late August, will be attended by Iran and five other countries, especially Europe, at the ministerial level on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, he announced.

'Sanctions will in fact be the ones to be in force by the US in the next three months as it will take actions in oil and banking sectors; what Europe, China and Russia promised is that they will insist on Iran oil imports while Iran will try to keep banking relations with the world.'

1420**1396

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Rouhani censures Trump for quitting negotiations.

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Aug 6, IRNA -- President Hassan Rouhani said late Monday reprimanded US President Donald Trump for withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal, saying that he turned his back to negotiations and his conducts are against the Iranian nation.

In a live televised speech late Monday, he added that the Iranian nation has always welcomed talks, if the parties are sincere in practice.

Asked how one shows sincerity, he said that talks along with sanctions are meaningless, as sanctions are against Iranian children, the sick and all the Iranian nation, and this is contradictory.

"One who mounts pressure on the Iranian nation and discourages others from making interaction with Iran, it will harm not only the Iranian nation, but also the companies dealing with them," he said.

"If the US is ready to hold talks with Iran, we are ready to sit down for talks about how it wants to pay damages to the Iranian nation," Rouhani said.

8072**1396

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Trump says open to new Iran deal

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Aug 6, IRNA -- US President Donald Trump said Monday he remains open to forging a new nuclear deal with Iran.

Despite pleas from other parties to the agreement, Trump pulled the US out of the deal in May, claiming the Iranian regime was cheating on its commitments and funding 'malign' activities around the region, AFP reported.

'I remain open to reaching a more comprehensive deal that addresses the full range of the regime's malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism,' Trump said in a statement.

Trump called the multilateral Iran accord a 'horrible, one-sided deal.'

Trump warned that businesses and individuals that continue to work with Tehran risk 'severe' consequences.

'We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation,' he said.

Trump pulled the US out of the deal on May 8, which drew criticism of the international community as well as the other parties to the international agreement.

8072**1396

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Zarif: Trump invalidates intl' accord with one signature



IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Tehran, Aug 6, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Monday that we experienced very prolonged nuclear negotiations for two years with the US word by word on implementation of the JCPOA but US president with one signature invalidated it and now they expect us to return to the negotiations.

US president holds a meeting and he himself claims that over 80 percent of them were not Iranian nationals; Zarif said, adding that they spent billions of dollars to establish contact with the Iranian people, but they lie as they did not let the Europeans to deliver plane spare parts to Iran after banning sales of passenger planes to Iran.

All sides hammered out the JCPOA word by word but US President invalided it with one signature, Zarif said, adding that he simply ignored invaluable time and negotiations which resulted to UNSC resolution that majority of world countries believed it and now questions whether 'we are men of negotiations or not'.

Iran has experienced many ups and downs when 'our cities' were targeted to Iraqi missiles and the US was toughening economic sanctions day by day but now the situation is very suitable thank to almighty, he said.

Iran did not attend table of negotiations, but it was the other side as they noticed that mounting pressures and economic sanctions leave no impact on our policies, Zarif said.

People play vital role in Iran's foreign policy, he said, adding that some of the US bullying policies might bear fruit, but all believe that Trump, Netanyahu and Bin Salman will be isolated.

These three people are manifestation of suppression, violence and lack of trust as they simply violate international accords, rights of Palestinian nation and also take hostage the prime minister of one country, Zarif said.

In the past 40 years, the majority of the world countries were against us, but now they made a U-turn and only two or three regimes are against us, he said.

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Rouhani: US not trustworthy for negotiations after quitting nuclear deal

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 05:55PM

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says the US administration is no more able to prove its trustworthiness for any negotiations after its withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and a number of other international treaties.

Rouhani made the remarks in a live televised interview on Monday, in which he answered questions on Iran's domestic issues and foreign developments, particularly after the US withdrawal from a landmark nuclear agreement, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in May.

"We are always in favor of diplomacy and talks ... But talks need honesty ... The US re-imposes sanctions on Iran and pulls out of the nuclear deal, and then wants to hold talks with us," the Iranian president said.

He added that the US must first prove itself willing to solve problems through negotiations after its withdrawal from the JCPOA.

"Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense. They are imposing sanctions on Iranian children, patients and the nation," Iran's chief executive said.

"If you're an enemy and you stab the other person with a knife and then you say you want negotiations, then the first thing you have to do is remove the knife," he added.

The Iranian president further stated that a recent call by US President Donald Trump for direct talks with Iran was only aimed at creating division in the country.

"Trump's call for direct talks is only for domestic consumption in America ... and to create division in Iran," Rouhani pointed out.

"They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation," he added.

The US president said on July 30 that he is ready to meet his Iranian counterpart, Hassan Rouhani, "any time they want to."

"It's good for the country, good for them, good for us and good for the world. No preconditions. If they want to meet, I'll meet," Trump said.

In reaction to the US president, Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said the US should blame itself for ending talks with Iran when it left the JCPOA.

During the televised interview, Rouhani said by withdrawing from the JCPOA, Trump aimed to make Iran leave the nuclear accord as well to lose all it had achieved through the deal.

He said Trump did not want its anti-Iran sanctions to be unilateral and wanted the entire world to impose sanctions on Iran, but he failed to achieve this goal.

"Even today, which sanctions have been re-imposed [by the United States], Europe has stood against America. This is while Europe was always an ally of America," the Iranian president said.

Noting that the United States will regret imposing sanctions on Iran, Rouhani emphasized that the Iranian nation can overcome all economic hardships through unity.

The United States plans to re-impose a first round of sanctions against Tehran, which were lifted under the multilateral nuclear agreement signed between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries in 2015, on Tuesday. The sanctions will cover Iran's purchases of dollars, its trade in gold and precious metals, and its automotive sector.

Further sanctions on oil and transactions with the central bank of Iran will come into effect on November 4.

Trump announced on May 8 that Washington was walking away from the nuclear agreement, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and that he plans to reinstate US nuclear sanctions on Iran and impose "the highest level" of economic bans on the Islamic Republic.

Under the JCPOA, Iran undertook to put limits on its nuclear program in exchange for the removal of nuclear-related sanctions imposed against Tehran.

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Trump signs executive order reimposing sanctions against Iran

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 04:26PM

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order reimposing many sanctions on Iran to levy "maximum economic pressure" on the Islamic Republic.

Trump repeated his opinion that the 2015 international nuclear agreement with Iran, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was a "horrible, one-sided deal."

"[The Iran nuclear deal] a horrible, one-sided deal, failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb," Trump said in a statement on Monday.

"Since the deal was reached, Iran's aggression has only increased. The regime has used the windfall of newly accessible funds it received under the JCPOA to build nuclear-capable missiles, fund terrorism, and fuel conflict across the Middle East and beyond," he said.

Trump also warned that nations that do not gradually reduce their ties to the Iranian economy "risk severe consequences" under the reimposed sanctions.

"The United States is fully committed to enforcing all of our sanctions, and we will work closely with nations conducting business with Iran to ensure complete compliance," he said.

In May, Washington withdrew from the deal, which also has the UK, France, Russia, China, and Germany as its signatories. It also said it would be returning the nuclear-related sanctions, which have been lifted on the back of the accord.

"By exiting the JCPOA, the United States is able to protect its national security by applying maximum economic pressure on the Iranian regime," Trump said in his statement on Monday.

The first phase of US sanctions include a universal ban on Iran's access to the US dollar, as well as prohibitions against the country's trade in gold and other precious metals, among other restrictions.

"To date, my Administration has issued 17 rounds of Iran-related sanctions, designating 145 companies and individuals," Trump said.

The second wave of sanctions that would hit on November 4 would aim to bring Iran's oil exports to zero as claimed by US officials.

The Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has ordered officials and institutions in charge to prepare to build up the country's enrichment capacity in case the nuclear deal falls apart after the US unilaterally scrapped it.

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Zarif: Trump's offer of negotiations with Iran only PR stunt

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 01:54PM

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says a recent proposal by US President Donald Trump to enter into negotiations with Iran over the country's nuclear issue is nothing but a "publicity stunt" as he cannot be trusted with any new talks after withdrawing from Iran nuclear deal.

Addressing a ceremony to mark the National Journalists' Day in Tehran on Monday, Zarif pointed to Washington's withdrawal from the historic nuclear accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), saying, "Who will believe that Trump wants to negotiate with Iran?"

"The hours of our negotiations with America were perhaps unprecedented in history; then Trump signs something and say all [those negotiations] are void; can you negotiate with this person? Is this [negotiations offer] anything but a publicity stunt?" he asked.

Noting that the purpose and subject of any negotiations must be clear, Iran's top diplomat added, "Negotiations must be worth their while."

Iran's foreign minister also stated that nearly 60 percent of the American people believed that Washington should not withdraw from the JCPOA while more than 180 countries expressed their support for the deal as well.

Washington seeks to create the atmosphere through propaganda that it is willing to negotiate with Tehran, but the Iranian people do not accept this, Zarif said.

The US president said on July 30 that he is ready to meet his Iranian counterpart, Hassan Rouhani, "any time they want to."

"It's good for the country, good for them, good for us and good for the world. No preconditions. If they want to meet, I'll meet," Trump said.

In reaction to the US president, Zarif said the US should blame itself for ending talks with Iran when it left the JCPOA.

"Iran & US had 2 yrs of talks. With EU/E3+Russia+China; we produced a unique multilateral accord -- the JCPOA. It's been working. US can only blame itself for pulling out & leaving the table. Threats, sanctions & PR stunts won't work. Try respect: for Iranians & for int'l commitments," said Zarif in a post on his official Twitter account.

Trump, allies isolated over anti-Iran policies'

Elsewhere in his remarks, the Iranian foreign minister said Trump and his main allies in the Middle East have become isolated by their policies against Iran.

"Today, all speak about the isolation of Trump, [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu and [Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad] bin Salman. These three persons are the symbol of suppression, violence and mistrust in the world," Zarif said.

He added that all countries across the world have announced that they would not follow US policies against Iran, stressing, "The fact is that in today's world, it is the US that has become isolated."

The United States plans to re-impose a first round of sanctions against Tehran, which were lifted under the multilateral nuclear agreement signed between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries in 2015, on Tuesday. The sanctions will cover Iran's purchases of dollars, its trade in gold and precious metals, and its automotive sector.

Further sanctions on oil and transactions with the central bank of Iran will come into effect on November 4.

Trump announced on May 8 that Washington was walking away from the nuclear agreement, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and that he plans to reinstate US nuclear sanctions on Iran and impose "the highest level" of economic bans on the Islamic Republic.

Under the JCPOA, Iran undertook to put limits on its nuclear program in exchange for the removal of nuclear-related sanctions imposed against Tehran.

EU deeply regrets re-imposition of US sanctions on Iran

The European Union on Monday voiced its deep regret over the US renewal of sanctions on Iran, saying the 28-nation bloc and other signatories would work on keeping financial channels with Iran open.

EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and German, French and British Foreign Ministers Heiko Maas, Jean-Yves Le Drian and Jeremy Hunt, respectively, made the remarks in a joint statement.

"The JCPOA is working and delivering on its goal, namely to ensure that the Iranian program remains exclusively peaceful, as confirmed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 11 consecutive reports," the statement read.

"It (the JCPOA) is a key element of the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture, crucial for the security of Europe, the region, and the entire world," it added.

The EU called on Iran to continue to fully implement all its nuclear commitments under the nuclear deal, saying, "We are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran in accordance with EU law and with UN Security Council resolution 2231."

"Preserving the nuclear deal with Iran is a matter of respecting international agreements and a matter of international security," the statement pointed out.

The British Foreign Office also took to Twitter later on Monday, noting that the Iranian nuclear deal is "crucial for the security of Europe, the region, and the entire world."

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Europe defies US, vows to protect firms against Iran sanctions

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 01:34PM

As the United States is preparing to restore sanctions against Iran, Europe says it would act to protect its companies that do business with Iran against Washington's potential punitive measures.

The announcement  which could be a strong expression of defiance against the hostile agenda of US President Donald Trump against Tehran  was made by the European Commission.

The Commission announced in a statement that it would activate an EU law that would shield European companies that have business ties with Iran from US sanctions on Tuesday (August 7).

The law or the so-called blocking statute would comprise a set of protective measures and would be the most powerful tool at EU's immediate disposal because it would ban any European company from complying with US sanctions and would not recognize any court rulings that would enforce American penalties, according to media reports.

Europe had previously voiced opposition against restoring sanctions against Iran arguing that the Islamic Republic should not be punished as it is has been so far doing its share of the 2015 nuclear deal that had led to the removal of the sanctions.

Trump's administration  that would restore sanctions against Iran on Tuesday (August 7) - is largely believed to be already facing a host of challenges in its anti-Iran push.

Apart from opposition from Europe, countries like Turkey, China and India have already made it clear they would not abide by the sanctions against Iran.

"The lifting of nuclear-related sanctions is an essential part of the deal  it aims at having a positive impact not only on trade and economic relations with Iran, but most importantly on the lives of the Iranian people," the European Commission said in its statement.

"We are determined to protect European economic operators engaged in legitimate business with Iran, in accordance with EU law and with UN Security Council resolution 2231."

Brussels had earlier announced that it would enable the Blocking Statute starting from August. The law was first adopted in 1996 and forbids EU companies from complying with the extraterritorial effects of US sanctions. It allows companies to recover damages arising from such sanctions, and nullifies the effect in the EU of any foreign court judgments based on them, according to a report by Reuters.

The Europeans are "committed to work on  the preservation and maintenance of effective financial channels with Iran, and the continuation of Iran's export of oil and gas," the statement by the European Commission further added.

The bloc said that maintaining the nuclear deal with Iran is a "matter of respecting international agreements and a matter of international security."

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Pompeo: US will 'fully' enforce sanctions on Iran

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 10:10AM

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says Washington will enforce the full range of the country's sanctions against Iran, the first round of which is to kick on Monday.

"The United States is going to enforce these sanctions," he told reporters after a summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Regional Forum in Singapore on Sunday.

He also claimed that Tehran would not be capable of going around the unilateral sanctions.

The first phase would include a universal ban on Iran's access to the US dollar as well as prohibitions against the country's trade in gold and other precious metals among other restrictions.

The second wave of sanctions that would hit on November 4 would be meant to bring Iran's oil exports to zero as claimed by US officials.

US President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from an international nuclear accord with Iran in May and pledged to impose the most restrictive sanctions ever on the country.

Pompeo alleged that the sanctions targeted the Iranian government. "This is just about Iranians' dissatisfaction with their own government," he said. "And we want the Iranian people to have a strong voice in who their leadership will be."

Residents of Iran's capital Tehran, however, said Monday that the sanctions would mostly hurt ordinary Iranians.

"I do not think highly of Trump claiming these sanctions affect the government. These sanctions are directly applied to the people," Agence France-Presse quoted Saeed Bagheri as saying.

For another resident, Mohammad, the "crippling sanctions" aren't something new for Iran, the news agency reported. According to him, the US "objective" in the past was "regime change" but it "did not come to pass."

"I believe the impact of sanctions on lives has been very obvious, especially in the health sector, for patients, as well as the jobs that are there for students," said Mariam Kadkhodaei.

According to Mahdi Abadan, Iran should return towards a localized economic model and resist through self-sufficiency.



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Trump Signs Order Reimposing Sanctions On Iran

RFE/RL August 06, 2018

WASHINGTON -- U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the reimposition of major financial sanctions on Iran, targeting currency purchases and key industries three months after pulling out of the 2015 nuclear agreement between Tehran and world powers.

In a statement on August 6, Trump repeated his longstanding position that the 2015 accord which provided Tehran with relief from sanctions in return for curbs on its nuclear program was "a horrible, one-sided deal."

The president pulled the United States out of the landmark agreement in May, saying Iran was not living up to the spirit of the accord, and vowed to reimpose economic sanctions that were lifted under the deal.

The United States urged all nations "to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation," Trump said in the statement released by the White House.

The reimposition of the sanctions, which take effect at 4:01 a.m. GMT, was widely expected, as U.S. officials had signaled for weeks they were intended to move forward despite vociferous objections from European allies.

In an interview on Iranian state TV, President Hassan Rohani said the country will stay true to the nuclear deal despite the U.S. sanctions.

"They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation and create divisions among the people," he said in a televised interview.

Iran's foreign minister, meanwhile, asserted the United States was isolated in its hard-line policy toward Tehran.

"Of course, American bullying and political pressures may cause some disruption, but the fact is that in the current world, America is isolated," Mohammad Javad Zarif was quoted as saying by the semiofficial ISNA news agency.

Ahead of the U.S. announcement, the European Union issued a so-called blocking statute aimed at shielding European businesses from the reimposed sanctions. And in a joint statement, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Britain, and Germany said they "deeply regret" the move.

The Iran deal is "crucial for the security of Europe, the region, and the entire world," it said.

The U.S. measures taking effect on August 7 target Iran's automotive sector and renowned carpet-making industry, as well as its trade in gold and other metals. U.S. officials said the Iranian government would also no longer be able to buy U.S. dollars.

A second batch of U.S sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector are to be reimposed in early November.

Senior U.S. administration officials vowed that Washington would aggressively enforce the new sanctions, and they expect the measures to have a significant impact on the Iranian economy.

"There is no question that these financial sanctions are going to continue to bring significant financial pressure," an administration official said August 6.

Iran's economy has rapidly deteriorated in recent months partially due to fears over the imposition of further U.S. sanctions, igniting street protests in many cities due to economic hardships.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters ahead of the White House announcement that the intensified pressure was designed to "push back against Iranian malign activity."

He also asserted that the social unrest was an indication of Iranians' unhappiness with authorities.

"This is just about Iranians' dissatisfaction with their own government, and the president is pretty clear: We want the Iranian people to have a strong voice in who their leadership will be," he said.

Administration officials also criticized how Iranian authorities have responded to the social and labor protests.

"We are deeply concerned about reports of the Iranian regime's violence against unarmed citizens," one official said. "The United States supports the Iranian people's right to peacefully protest against corruption and oppression without fear of reprisal."

Zarif, the Iranian foreign minister, tweeted that the U.S. sanctions on Iran were "endangering ordinary Iranians."

"The Trump Administration wants the world to believe it's concerned about the Iranian people. Yet the very first sanctions it reimposed have canceled licenses for sales of 200+ passenger jets under absurd pretexts, endangering ordinary Iranians. US hypocrisy knows no bounds," he wrote.

The Iranian rial has been particularly hard hit on expectations of U.S. restrictions on currency transactions.

Iranian state TV on August 5 said the country will ease its foreign-exchange rules in a bid to halt the collapse of the rial, which has lost about half its value since April.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Farda and Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/pompeo- confirms-imposition-sanctions- rial-targeted/29414443.html

Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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U.S. Expresses Concerns Over Violence Against Unarmed Protesters In Iran

RFE/RL August 06, 2018

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says the United States is concerned about reports of Iranian authorities using "violence against unarmed citizens," as street protests have hit Tehran and other cities over economic hardships.

"We are deeply concerned about reports of Iranian regime's violence against unarmed citizens," Pompeo wrote on Twitter late on August 5.

He added that the "U.S. supports Iranian people's right to protest against the regime's corruption & oppression without fear of reprisal. We call on the regime in Iran to respect its people's human rights."

Protesters have taken to the streets in Iranian cities, expressing anger over worsening economic conditions.

Accurate information remains difficult to get, but media in Iran have reported that at least one protester was killed in the city of Karaj, about 50 kilometers west of Tehran, when someone fired a gun from a passing car.

Much of the economic difficulties are related to U.S. moves to increase financial and economic pressure on Tehran after President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal and has begun reimposing sanctions.

The White House is set to detail new sanctions in an announcement on August 6, with currency restrictions to head the list.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/us-expresses -concerns-over-violence-against -protesters-iran/29414470.html

Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Germany to Protect Its Companies' Exports, Investments in Iran From US Sanctions

Sputnik News

20:54 06.08.2018(updated 20:56 06.08.2018)

The US withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal and announced that it would be re-imposing the "harshest sanctions" on Tehran and any entity working with it, even if it means subjecting European companies to sanctions.

Germany has reassured its businesses that the country will continue providing them with export and investment guarantees when working in Iran, despite Washington's sanctions, the Ministry of Economics said in a statement on August 6, 2018. The ministry also added that it will continue to discuss the possibilities of exemptions from sanctions with the US.

"Export guarantees and investment guarantees from the Federal Ministry of Economics are still available to companies," the statement said.

Earlier in the day, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of the UK, France and Germany said in a joint statement that beginning August 7, the updated EU Blocking Statute will come into effect in order to protect EU companies conducting business in Iran from extra-territorial US sanctions.

The statute will forbid such companies from complying with US demands, nullify any foreign court rulings against the firms and give them an opportunity to recover from penalties imposed on them.

In the joint statement, the heads of the foreign ministries of the UK, France and Germany, as well as the EU high representative for foreign affairs, also expressed their regret at the US decision to impose sanctions against Tehran and confirmed their adherence to the Iran nuclear deal.

Their statement came soon after the US Treasury Department announced that as of August 6, it will sanction any entity involved in buying or selling Iran's national currency, sovereign debt, gold, precious metals, aluminum, steel, coal, automobiles and certain types of software. The re-imposed US sanctions will affect any company doing business with Tehran, putting European firms at risk, as they have heavily invested in the country. For example, it jeopardizes Iran's deal to purchase planes from the Franco-Italian aircraft manufacturer ATR, as well as Airbus.

President Donald Trump announced on May 8 that the US was withdrawing from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), an international agreement reached in 2015 between Iran, the United States, Russia, France, China, the UK, Germany and the EU. The deal was designed to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to ensure the peaceful nature of its nuclear program, lifting economic sanctions against the country in return.

Trump has consistently been a harsh opponent of the Iran deal, calling it "defective at its core." He demanded to "fix" it, threatening to withdraw the US from the deal and to re-impose economic sanctions. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, heads of two of the EU's leading countries, attempted to convince Trump to stick with the deal, but these efforts ultimately failed.

 Sputnik

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Bolton: Iran Should "Come to the Table" If Wants to Avoid US Sanctions

Sputnik News

18:57 06.08.2018(updated 19:18 06.08.2018)

White House national security adviser John Bolton said in an interview on Fox News on Monday that if Iran wants to avoid the US sanctions, it should agree on Donald Trump's offer and hold negotiations.

"They could take up the president's offer to negotiate with them, to give up their ballistic missile and nuclear weapons programs fully and really verifiably not under the onerous terms of the Iran nuclear deal, which really are not satisfactory," Bolton said.

At the same time, the official noted that Tehran's threats to block the Strate of Hormuz would be the country's worst mistake, though he didn't believe Iran would do so.

According to the US Treasury, starting from August 6, the sanctions will be reinstated on the purchase of Iran's sovereign debt and Iranian rials. The punitive measures will also apply to Iran's trade in gold and precious metals, sale to and from Iran of aluminum, steel, coal and certain types of software. The restrictions will also extend to Iran's automotive industry as well as on the purchase of US dollars by the Iranian government.

On May 8, US President Donald Trump announced that Washington was withdrawing from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and would be reinstating sanctions on Tehran. The decision gave foreign companies grace periods of 90 to 180 days to stop trading with Iran.

 Sputnik

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US Building Global Coalition to Counter Iran's 'Malign' Activity - US Official

Sputnik News

17:46 06.08.2018

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) -The United States is putting together a global coalition to counter Iran's malign activity as it reimposes sanctions against the Islamic Republic that were removed under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a senior administration official said in a press briefing on Monday.

"We are  working to build a global coalition to counter Iran's malign activity. What I can tell you very specifically is that we have made it very clear that we're going to aggressively enforce this executive order and the other authorities that we have pursuant to statute. We will work with countries around the world to do so, but make no mistake about it, we are very intent on using these authorities," the official told reporters.

Despite assertions by the Trump administration officials of putting together a global coalition, the European Union said its updated blocking statue will mitigate the impact

of the reimposed US sanctions against Iran in order to protect the interests of EU companies doing legitimate business in Iran.

The senior administration official said the first wave of reimposed sanctions would target Iran's acquisition of dollar bank notes, trade in gold and other metals, transactions related to the Iranian rial, and purchases of commercial passenger aircraft, the official said. The second wave of sanctions will target Iran's oil exports and energy sector, financial institutions and the shipping sector, the official added.

"The new Iran EO [Executive Order] reimposes relevant provisions of five Iran sanctions executive orders that were revoked or amended in January 16, 2016 in 2 phases. The first wind down period ends at midnight tonight, at which point relevant sanctions will be reimposed," the official told reporters during a conference call. "After the 180-day wind-down period ends of November 4, 2018, the US government will reimpose the remaining sanctions that had been previously lifted under the JCPOA."

On May 8, US President Donald Trump announced that Washington was withdrawing from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and would be reinstating sanctions on Tehran. The decision gave foreign companies grace periods of 90 to 180 days to stop trading with Iran.

 Sputnik

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Pompeo Vows to 'Enforce' US Sanctions Against Iran - Reports

Sputnik News

02:29 06.08.2018(updated 05:52 06.08.2018)

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that the United States would "enforce the sanctions" it is reimposing after US President Donald Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal.

Mike Pompeo said that increasing pressure on Tehran was meant to "push back against Iranian malign activity," adding that Iranians "are unhappy with the failure of their own leadership to deliver the economic promises that their leadership promised them," Pompeo was quoted as saying by AFP.

"The United States is going to enforce these sanctions. We're going to enforce these sanctions. Just go look at the reporting on what's taking place. The Iranian people are not happy  not with the Americans, but with their own leadership," Pompeo said at a briefing in response to a question on whether Iran would be able to break the US restrictive measures, as quoted in the statement of the US State Department.

"This is just about Iranians' dissatisfaction with their own government, and the President is pretty clear, we want the Iranian people to have a strong voice in who their leadership will be," Pompeo was quoted as saying AFP.

As for possibility of Washington reversing its decision on the sanctions, the state secretary said Tehran will first have to drastically reconsider its political course.

"Yeah, so the President [Trump] and I too have been very clear. We're very hopeful that we can find a way to move forward, but it's going to require enormous change on the part of the Iranian regime. They've got to  well, they've got to behave like a normal country. That's the ask. It's pretty simple," Pompeo said.

The official went on to say to urge Tehran to respect human rights as about half a dozen Iranian cities reportedly have seen people take to the streets to protest against the country's deteriorating economy and worsening living conditions.

As of 0401 GMT Tuesday, the Iranian authorities can no longer buy US banknotes and broad sanctions will be imposed on Iranian industries, including its rug exports.

On Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said that the US would consider the international community's opinion and correct the mistake of withdrawing from the Iranian nuclear deal.

"The unilateral withdrawal of the United States from the deal, as well as its threats of reinstating unilateral sanctions on Iran contradict the UN decisions and have caused disapproval of all the sides. We hope that the US side will be able to consider the international community's opinion and correct its faulty actions," Zarif said during his meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations' ministerial meeting in Singapore.

On Tuesday, Zarif said that the US can only "blame" itself for terminating dialogue with Iran after withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

"Iran & US had 2 yrs of talks. With EU/E3+Russia+China, we produced a unique multilateral accordthe JCPOA. It's been working. US can only blame itself for pulling out & leaving the table. Threats, sanctions & PR stunts won't work. Try respect: for Iranians & for int'l commitments," Zarif said on Twitter.

In May, Trump announced that his country would exit from the JCPOA, which stipulated the gradual lifting of the anti-Iran sanctions in exchange for Tehran maintaining the peaceful nature of its nuclear program. In addition, Trump decided to reinstate the previously lifted sanctions on Iran. The unilateral move has been opposed by other signatories to the agreement, which remained committed to the deal.

 Sputnik

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Senior Administration Officials Previewing Iran Sanctions

Special Briefing

Via Teleconference

August 6, 2018

MODERATOR: Good morning, thank you. Good morning to everyone and thank you for joining us this morning for a call on the Iran sanctions. Just want to remind everyone that this call is on background and attribution is to a senior administration official. But I'd also like to note that the information shared on this call is embargoed until 10:30 this morning. That is an update to the information provided in the earlier advisory, so I'll just say it again: The contents of this call are embargoed until 10:30 in the morning.

The speakers joining us today are  we have five. We have [Senior Administration Official One]. We have [Senior Administration Official Two]. We have [Senior Administration Official Three]; [Senior Administration Official Four]; and [Senior Administration Official Five].

I'll now turn it over to [Senior Administration Official One], who will open our call.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Great, thank you, [Moderator]. And thank you all for joining us today. I just have some very brief opening remarks. I just want to point out that what's happening today is part of a big coordinated campaign of pressuring Tehran that President Trump put in place from day one of his administration. We've  looking at the region from Yemen to Syria to Gaza, the Iranian regime is using the resources they had gotten from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action to spread human misery across the region instead of investing it in their people at home. We can have no further illusions about their intent.

And so facing this reality 90 days ago, the President took historic action to withdraw the United States from the JCPOA and put an end to the fiction that that deal would block Tehran from getting a nuclear weapon. Now, at that time we were warned by experts from the EU, even from my alma mater of the University of Pennsylvania  very sad  that the threat of unilateral sanctions from the United States would not be an effective tool. But three months out, we have a very different picture in front of us. The riyal is tanking, unemployment in Iran is rising, and there are widespread protests over social issues and labor unrest.

I thought from the Secretary of State's speech at the Reagan Library one of the most telling facts that he presented was that you would get twice the salary as a fighter for Hizballah in Syria or Lebanon than you would to be a firefighter in Tehran, if you got paid at all. And we see fires burn (inaudible) city unchecked.

The next 90 days will see increased economic pressure, culminating in the reimposition of petroleum sector sanctions in November, and this will have an exponential effect on Iran's already fragile economy.

The President has been very clear none of this needs to happen. He will meet with the Iranian leadership at any time to discuss a real comprehensive deal that will contain their regional ambitions, will end their malign behavior, and deny them any path to a nuclear weapon. The Iranian people should not suffer because of their regime's hegemonic regional ambitions.

I'd just like to conclude by thanking my interagency colleagues for their strong work on this effort. It's really been a terrific example of the administration pulling together. And I'll turn it over to you, [Senior Administration Official Two].

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: Thanks very much. I think as we see the Iranian protests continue now in some number of days, we hope that the Iranian regime will think seriously about the consequences of their behavior is having on their own people. We do stand with the Iranian people, who are longing for a country of economic opportunity, transparency, fairness, and greater liberty. As Iran expends enormous resources on its foreign adventurism, its people are becoming increasingly frustrated, and we are seeing this frustration expressed in protests across the country.

We are deeply concerned about reports of Iranian regime's violence against unarmed citizens. The United States supports the Iranian people's right to peacefully protest against corruption and oppression without fear of reprisal.

And two other points. The regime's systematic mismanagement of its economy and its decision to prioritize a revolutionary agenda over the welfare of the Iranian people has put Iran into a long-term economic tailspin. Widespread government corruption and extensive intervention in the economy by the Iran Revolutionary Guard Corps make doing business in Iran a losing proposition. Foreign direct investors in Iran never know whether they are facilitating commerce or terrorism.

I'd also point out that Iran obviously had a windfall from the Iran nuclear deal. Its increased oil revenues were a consequence of the nuclear deal. Those revenues could have gone to improve the lives of the Iranian people; instead, terrorists, dictators, proxy militias, and the regime's own cronies benefitted the most.

And now, I'm happy to turn it over to [Senior Administration Official Three].

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL THREE: Thank you, [Senior Administration Official Three]. So today, I want to briefly describe the actions that we're taking today. The President has issued a new Iran executive order to reimpose sanctions relating to Iran, as you know. On May 8th, the President issued a national security presidential memorandum which directed the secretaries of Treasury and State and others to take a number of actions. And today's announcement is just the next step in implementing the President's decision.

Specifically, we are reimposing sanctions on Iran that had been lifted under the JCPOA. The snapback of these sanctions, again, supports the President's decision to impose significant financial pressure on the Iranian regime, to continue to counter Iran's blatant and ongoing malign activities, and then ultimately to seek a new agreement that addresses the totality of the Iranian threat.

During the period of the JCPOA, the Iranian regime demonstrated time and time again that it had no intentions to cease its state support for terrorism, foreign proxies, and other malign activities. Iran, as has already been stated, has continued to promote ruthless regimes, destabilize the region, and abuse the human rights of its own people. As our sanctions have been exposing to fund their illicit activities and to evade sanctions, Iran has systematically exploited the global financial system, and willfully deceived countries, companies, and financial institutions around the globe.

This administration intends to fully enforce our sanctions as they come back into effect in order to impose economic pressure on the Iranian regime to stop its destabilizing activity, and ultimately chart a new path that will lead to prosperity for the Iranian people. Specifically, the new Iran EO reimposes relevant provisions of five Iran sanctions executive orders that were revoked or amended in January 16, 2016 in two phases. The first wind-down period ends at midnight tonight, at which relevant  at which point relevant sanctions will be reimposed.

At 12:01 a.m. tomorrow, August 7, 2018, sanctions will come back into full effect on the purchase or acquisition of U.S. dollar bank notes by the Government of Iran; Iran's trade in gold and precious metals; the sale or transfer to or from Iran of graphite and metals, such as aluminum and steel, coal, and software for integrating industrial processes; certain transactions related to the Iranian rial; certain transactions related to the issuance of Iranian sovereign debt; and Iran's automotive sector.

Wind-down authorizations will no longer be valid after August 6th, with respect to the importation into the United States of Iranian origin carpets and food stuffs, and transactions related to the purchase of commercial passenger aircraft will be prohibited. After the 180-day wind-down period ends on November 4, 2018, the U.S. Government will reimpose the remaining sanctions that have been  had been previously lifted under the JCPOA.

The final round of snapback sanctions, as articulated in the executive order, will include the reimposition of sanctions on Iran's oil exports and energy sector, financial institutions conducting transactions with the Central Bank of Iran, as well as sanctions related to Iran's port operators and shipping and ship-building sectors, and sanctions on the provision of insurance and financial messaging services.

Today's executive order and the snapback of sanctions on Iran, again, is part of the President's broader strategy to apply unprecedented financial pressure on the Iranian regime. We are intent on cutting off the regime's access to resources that they have systematically used to finance terror, fund weapons proliferation, and threaten peace and stability in the region. Again, our actions will continue to severely limit the ability of Iran, which, as you know, is the largest state sponsor of terror, to gain funding to continue to finance its wide range of malign behavior.

Under this administration, OFAC has issued 17 rounds of sanctions designating 145 Iran-related persons. This includes six rounds just since the President's decision in May, including actions relating to the finance of the Qods Force and Hizballah, its ballistic missile program, the Iranian aviation sector, the government's  the regime's use of front and shell companies and other deceptive means to gain access to currency for the Qods Force, including in complicity with the Central Bank of Iran. We are fully committed to rigorously enforcing our sanctions and ensuring that Iran has no path to a nuclear weapon. This economic pressure campaign is central to our efforts to gain  to ensure that they change course.

I will just also mention that in addition to the executive order we're going to be publishing a number of FAQs that will provide answers to specific technical questions.

Thank you.

MODERATOR: All right, thank you very much. We'll now go to our first question.

OPERATOR: Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. Once again, if you wish to ask a question, please press *1 at this time, and we ask that you limit yourself to one question. Our first question is from Michael Gordon with Wall Street Journal. Please, go ahead.

QUESTION: Right, thank you. When the previous administration imposed sanctions against Iran prior to the JCPOA, they had broad international support. In this case, the United States has withdrawn from the agreement but other  Europe and Russia and China continue to endorse it. China is a large consumer of Iranian oil and does a lot of trade with them. How do you propose to elicit China's cooperation? And if you fail to do so, aren't your sanctions going to be weaker than the ones the Obama administration imposed?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL THREE: So of course, as I'm sure [Senior Administration Official Two] will tell you, we are likewise working to build a global coalition to counter Iran's malign activity. What I can tell you very specifically is that we have made it very clear that we're going to aggressively enforce this executive order and the other authorities that we have pursuant to statute. We will work with countries around the world to do so. But make no mistake about it, we are very intent on using these authorities. We will use them aggressively. And as [Senior Administration Official Three] already mentioned, we are already seeing a very substantial impact.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Yeah, Michael, I would just follow up on that and say if the sanctions were not going to be effective, I don't think you would have seen the trajectory of Iran's economy over the last 90 days. I mean, it would have been the opposite if China were going to rescue them and somehow make this into a big success.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL THREE: And of course, in the last 90 days we have seen company after company after company announce that they are getting out, so there's no question that this pressure is already working.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: Yeah, this is [Senior Administration Official Two]. We  the point of our sanctions pressure, this economic pressure campaign, is to deny the regime the financial resources that it needs to finance terrorism and its nuclear missile programs and other dangerous activity around the Middle East. And we're very pleased that nearly 100 international firms have announced their intent to leave the Iranian market, particularly in the energy and the finance sectors.

We have had  State and Treasury officials have been traveling around the world to various regions to coordinate with countries. That includes China. And so far, we have visited more than 20 countries, and that work will continue for the balance of the year.

MODERATOR: Thank you. We'll go to the next question now.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question comes from Susannah George with AP. Please, go ahead.

QUESTION: Hi there, thanks so much for doing this call. I want to ask specifically about this announcement from the EU that they will protect European firms from the reimposition of U.S. sanctions on Iran, specifically this blocking statute that will take effect when sanctions are reimposed at midnight. Do you expect that this could weaken U.S. sanctions? Have you responded to this in any way? Thank you.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL THREE: Look, so I think with respect to the EU blocking the statute, really what you need to look at is what companies and  the messages that companies and financial institutions are sending, which is that (a) they have I think a deep appreciation for what's going on in Iran for the fact that it's very difficult and complicated to know who you're doing business with in Iran. Are you doing business with the IRGC, the Qods Force? As we've  as has been exposed in our actions in the last 90 days, we've taken a couple of actions which expose the Central Bank of Iran's complicity in helping to fund terror. Companies and banks, including central banks, understand that very well. They are taking note and as [Senior Administration Official Two] mentioned, they are getting out. So we're not  we are  this is not something that we're particularly concerned by.

MODERATOR: All right, we'll go to the next question now.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question comes from Lesley Wroughton with Reuters. Please go ahead.

QUESTION: Yes, good morning. If you bear with me, just a couple of questions. One is do you  what kind of economic impact in dollar terms do you believe these initial sanctions will have on the Iranian economy? And number two, is there a danger perhaps that the Iranians might blame the worsening conditions on foreigners rather than on the regime?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: In terms of your second question, I think of course they will blame foreigners. They've been doing this for almost 40 years now; it's their modus operandi. But I think you could see the Iranian people start to see through that, that they know that this is the regime's policies. They also know about the President's offer to meet with their leadership, and they'd like to take him up on that offer to see what the United States has to offer. So I think doing  saying we can't do something because a rogue regime will blame foreigners, I don't think is a very effective policy for us.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL THREE: Yeah and I would add  I mean, as also  as [Senior Administration Official Two] also mentioned, look, the Iranian people have been protesting for some time. They were protesting well before the President's decision and they were very specifically protesting about the corruption in their government, the misuse of funds which have not gone to the Iranian people. It's gone to fund regional proxies, it's gone of course to fund terrorism and terrorist groups. That's what they've been protesting about for quite some time, and the extraordinary thing about these protests is that these people, the Iranian people, have  understand that when they protest in Iran, unfortunately they do so at the risk to their own lives. They're thrown in prison and all kinds of terrible things happen to them when they are thrown in prison, as our sanctions actions have likewise exposed in recent months. But they are so fed up with their government, that they have made the decision that they have to protest against the Iranian regime's ongoing economic and other policies.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: And I do think it's particularly meaningful that they're protesting against the expenditures in Syria, the expenditures in Gaza very specifically. And so that's what they're blaming.

MODERATOR: All right, we'll go on to the next question now.

OPERATOR: And our next question is from Carol Morello with Washington Post. Please go ahead.

QUESTION: Hi. Are you or are you not calling for the Iranian people to do something to bring about regime change in Iran?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Well, I'll defer to [Senior Administration Official Two], but I mean our stated policy has not been regime change, it has been to modify the Iranian regime's behavior in the ways that I outlined in my opening remarks.

SENIOR STATE DEPARMTENT OFFICAL TWO: Yeah, Carol, I would add to that: We have been  what we're noticing is that so many of the things that the protesters are demanding are very similar to the things that the United States and other nations in the world are demanding. And we have been consistent saying that if Iran will start behaving like a normal country, there are a number of benefits that will follow from that. But for as long as Iran continues to export revolution around the Middle East and to destabilize the region and to rob its people to fund these foreign  to fund all the Shia militias and fund Assad and to fund other dictators in the region. For as long as that's going on, I think you're going to see the Iranian people continually frustrated, and we support their claims. We think that they have valid complaints against the regime, that many of them are our complaints. And so we would like to see a change in the regime's behavior, and I think the Iranian people are looking for the same thing.

MODERATOR: Thank you. We'll go on to the next question.

OPERATOR: Thank you. And our next question is from Eli Lake with Bloomberg. Please, go ahead.

QUESTION: Hi. Thanks so much for doing this. Are you going to sanction the entire IRIB, their broadcasting arm?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: The IRIB is already sanctioned, and I have no comment beyond that.

MODERATOR: Thank you. We'll go to the next question now, please.

OPERATOR: Next question is from Meghan Gordon with S&P Global Platts. Please, go ahead.

QUESTION: Yeah, hi. Thanks for taking questions. You've said that you're not granting any broad waivers to the oil sanctions that snap back in November. Have you approved any request allowing limited trades or specific deals to continue after that point, and have you made a decision on Japan's request to continue importing Iranian oil?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: [Senior Administration Official Two], do you want to take that question?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: Well, we don't  we don't disclose private deliberations with other governments over these things. As we've said, we  our goal is to get the import of Iranian oil to zero. We are not looking to grant exemptions or waivers, but we do and are glad to discuss requests and look at requests on a case-by-case basis. But beyond that, we don't comment on it.

MODERATOR: Thank you. We'll go on to the next question.

OPERATOR: And our next question is from Andrea Mitchell with NBC, MSNBC. Please, go ahead.

QUESTION: Hi there. I'm trying to understand  to better understand the disconnect between the President's wanting to meet with Rouhani any time, any place, and these sanctions. How does that  do you think that the pressure could lead to a meeting or should lead to a meeting? What would  what would be the purpose of a meeting given all your objections to this regime and your  the comments today certainly seem to be encouraging the people of Iran to rise up against their leaders. Isn't that really what you're doing here?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Well, Andrea, I think  I mean, this is completely consistent with what the President has done with other meetings with what you might refer to as less friendly regimes from North Korea to Russia, which is not to give a lot of sanction  any sanctions relief in advance of a meeting to make very clear that the United States will keep the maximum pressure on these regimes until our goals are achieved. And in standing with the Iranian people, I think we're just  we're just standing up for basic human rights, human dignity, and for the economic opportunity they deserve.

MODERATOR: We'll go on to the next question.

OPERATOR: And that's from Nick Schifrin with PBS News. Please, go ahead.

QUESTION: Hi, everyone. Thanks for taking this. [Senior Administration Official One], you said that the President will meet with the Iranian leadership at any time to discuss a comprehensive deal. Just trying to understand  trying to confirm that there are no preconditions at all for that meeting given what Secretary of State Pompeo said that  or suggested that the Iranian regime would have to make some concessions or changes before that. And either to you or to [Senior Administration Official Two] perhaps, do you believe or are you expecting the Iranian economy to collapse under the weights of these sanctions and the ones that will be  that will come back in a few months? Thanks.

SENOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Well, I actually didn't say it. The President said that he'd meet. I just repeated what he said. And I think I would defer to [Senior Administration Official Two] on the Secretary of State's comments, but what he was saying there is he is not going to give up anything in advance of the meeting, that there are no preconditions. And so I think that's really  really the point.

QUESTION: Just a few --

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Oh, and in terms of economic collapse, I'll hand that over to [Senior Administration Official Three]. Do we expect the Iranian economy to collapse?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL THREE: Look, I mean, I'm not going to make any predictions about what's going to happen to the Iranian economy other than to say that we are very intent on using these finance  these financial sanctions to great economic leverage. And  look, again, the Iranian economy was already on a downward spiral before the President made his decision, and that's as a result of the policies that the Iranians have espoused for quite some time. But there's no question that these financial sanctions are going to continue to bring significant financial pressure against the world's largest state sponsor of terror.

MODERATOR: All right, we'll go on to the last question now.

OPERATOR: And we'll go to Bahman Kalbasi with BBC News. Please go ahead.

QUESTION: Thank you for taking this question. Are you saying that U.S. Government will have no responsibility in the misery they will bring these sanctions on ordinary Iranians? Because you do talk about human rights and human dignity, and among these sanctions are the fact that Iran will not be getting, for instance, commercial airlines  new planes for its commercial airline. So  so far we have had thousands of the Iranians dying in airline accidents throughout the years, and this sanction will make it impossible for them to buy new ones. Is there not a responsibility here for U.S. Government to look out for the people that it says it wants to support to lessen their misery, while in reality it is actually increasing it?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL ONE: Absolutely not. I think the blame for the situation is perfectly clear. It lies with the Iranian regime that has systematically destroyed that beautiful country over the last four decades.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL TWO: Yeah this is [Senior Administration Official Two]. In terms of  I'll let [Senior Administration Official Three] speak to  a little bit more the commercial aviation. The problem is that Iran does not use its commercial aviation for commercial purposes. It uses its commercial aviation to carry people and weapons into the gray zone to help advance the goals of the Shia militias and proxies operating around the region. And so, the burden of responsibility is on Iran to use its commercial aviation for commercial aviation purposes.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL THREE: Yeah I would just echo what [Senior State Administration Two] just said. Look, what we know is that Iran systematically uses its aviation sector, including Mahan Air and a number of other airlines that we have designated to continue to further its malign activity. I mean, you see these airlines like Mahan traveling back and forth repeatedly to places like Syria to support the Assad regime and the brutal activities that it's undertaken. So really the pressure is on the regime to stop engaging in this systematic malign behavior that's destabilizing the region, that's victimizing its own people and that's posing a threat to some of our closest allies and partners.

MODERATOR: All right, well that will conclude our call this morning. I thank everyone for taking part, for the calling in and to our speakers for taking the time. Just to remind everyone that we  that this is on background to a senior administration official. The contents of the call are  will remain under embargo until 10:30 this morning, eastern time. Thank you everyone; have an enjoyable day.



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Ankara on Collision Course With Washington Over Iran Sanctions

By Dorian Jones August 06, 2018

U.S. President Donald Trump's executive order Monday to introduce sanctions against Iran threatens to put Washington and Ankara on a collision course.

Ankara insists Trump's unilateral actions do not bind it. The looming dispute threatens to exacerbate existing tensions between the two NATO allies.

"We are going to aggressively enforce our sanctions, and that puts a very important test to those companies, to those banks and to those governments  who do they want to do business with?" said a senior official Monday. "We are very serious to enforce those sanctions, and that's what the president has directed us to do."

The first wave of Iranian sanctions goes into effect Tuesday and targets mainly financial transactions and commercial airline sales with Iran. In November, measures to stop the sale of Iranian energy are set to go into effect.

Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has ruled out complying with U.S. measures, insisting Turkey is bound only by international agreements. Ankara identifies Tehran as a key trading partner to help boost its flagging economy.

Iranian oil and gas are critical to energy-poor Turkey. In the first six months of this year, Turkey imported an average of 176,000 barrels a day of Iranian oil, accounting for 49 percent of Turkish imports.

"It's pretty damn serious, obviously, with the Turkish economy facing difficult times. To give up on trade with Iran and not being able to buy gas and oil would really hurt the Turkish economy," said international relations expert Soli Ozel of Istanbul's Kadir Has University. "So, there is a big problem, and there is very little time to solve it, and at a time when both sides don't trust one another."

Strained relations

Turkish-U.S. relations are already profoundly strained over myriad differences. Last week, Washington took the unprecedented step of sanctioning two Turkish ministers over the ongoing detention of U.S. pastor Andrew Brunson. Brunson, facing terrorism charges, is under house arrest. Ankara retaliated in kind, sanctioning two unnamed U.S. officials.

With Turkey a significant importer of Iranian oil, analysts say it will be a priority of Washington to persuade Ankara to comply with its sanctions. Last month, senior U.S. officials  led by Marshall Billingslea, assistant secretary of the Treasury for terrorist financing  visited Ankara to meet with government ministers and business leaders to press the case for sanctions.

Billingslea described the talks as positive, but a source privy to the meeting described the meetings as difficult.

A Turkish business source claims Washington's suggestion to use Saudi Arabian oil instead of Iran's fails to take into account the costly and timely readjustment of Turkish refineries to accommodate the lower quality of Saudi oil.

Ankara also has strategic concerns about relying on Saudi Arabia.

"Turkey is being told to buy oil from Saudi Arabia, while it has a pipeline with neighboring Iran and can get crude at a lower price," wrote Ilnur Cevik, a senior presidential adviser in Turkey's Sabah newspaper. "Besides, who can guarantee that Turkey will be provided a steady flow of oil at reasonable prices when Saudi Arabia at times is displaying an antagonistic policy toward Ankara?"

Former U.S. President Barack Obama granted Ankara some exemptions when imposing sanctions against Iran. However, critics point out, Ankara severely undermined U.S. sanctions by using gold to circumvent restrictions on the use of dollars to trade with Iran.

Turkey at one time was one of the world's biggest gold importers and exporters. Washington has now closed the door to using gold in trade with Tehran.

Halkbank case

Earlier this year, a New York court convicted a senior official of Turkish state-controlled Halkbank for a violation of U.S. Iranian sanctions. The U.S. Treasury is considering a hefty fine against the bank, which analysts warn could be several billion dollars.

Analysts see the Halkbank experience as a warning to Ankara and the Turkish financial system of the risks violating future U.S. sanctions.

"It will actually force Ankara to choose between Iran and the United States," said former senior Turkish diplomat Aydin Selcen, who served in Washington. "Not complying with Iran sanctions is not an option. There will be increased pressure from the U.S. bringing a vicious circle in bilateral relations."

The deepening U.S.-Turkish tensions are taking a heavy toll on Turkey's financial markets. The Turkish lira suffered heavy drops last week over Washington sanctioning two Turkish ministers. On Monday, the currency hit another record low on news of new U.S. economic tariffs against Turkey.

U.S. Iranian sanctions are set to be the latest in an ever-growing list of disputes between Ankara and Washington.

"You could actually find ways out of all this," Ozel said. "But trust in these relations has been totally decimated. And to rebuild trust in relations is the main, hard task."

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Statement from the President on the Reimposition of United States Sanctions with Respect to Iran

August 6, 2018

Today, the United States is taking action to reimpose nuclear-related sanctions with respect to Iran that were lifted in connection with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action of July 14, 2015 (the "JCPOA"). These actions include reimposing sanctions on Iran's automotive sector and on its trade in gold and precious metals, as well as sanctions related to the Iranian rial. These measures will take effect on August 7, 2018.

All remaining United States nuclear-related sanctions will resume effective November 5, 2018. These include sanctions targeting Iran's energy sector, including petroleum-related transactions, as well as transactions by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.

The United States is fully committed to enforcing all of our sanctions, and we will work closely with nations conducting business with Iran to ensure complete compliance. Individuals or entities that fail to wind down activities with Iran risk severe consequences.

I am pleased that many international firms have already announced their intent to leave the Iranian market, and several countries have indicated that they will reduce or end imports of Iranian crude oil. We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

My actions today  including my signing of an Executive Order entitled "Reimposing Certain Sanctions with Respect to Iran"  are consistent with National Security Presidential Memorandum-11 of May 8, 2018, announcing the withdrawal of the United States from the JCPOA.

The JCPOA, a horrible, one-sided deal, failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb, and it threw a lifeline of cash to a murderous dictatorship that has continued to spread bloodshed, violence, and chaos.

Since the deal was reached, Iran's aggression has only increased. The regime has used the windfall of newly accessible funds it received under the JCPOA to build nuclear-capable missiles, fund terrorism, and fuel conflict across the Middle East and beyond.

To this day, Iran threatens the United States and our allies, undermines the international financial system, and supports terrorism and militant proxies around the world.

By exiting the JCPOA, the United States is able to protect its national security by applying maximum economic pressure on the Iranian regime. To date, my Administration has issued 17 rounds of Iran-related sanctions, designating 145 companies and individuals. Since my announcement on May 8 withdrawing the United States from the JCPOA, my Administration has sanctioned 38 Iran-related targets in six separate actions. Reimposition of nuclear-related sanctions through today's actions further intensifies pressure on Tehran to change its conduct.

As we continue applying maximum economic pressure on the Iranian regime, I remain open to reaching a more comprehensive deal that addresses the full range of the regime's malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism. The United States welcomes the partnership of likeminded nations in these efforts.

The United States continues to stand with the long-suffering Iranian people, who are the rightful heirs to Iran's rich heritage and the real victims of the regime's policies. We look forward to the day when the people of Iran, and all people across the region, can prosper together in safety and peace.

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President Donald J. Trump is Reimposing Sanctions Lifted Under the Horrible Iran Deal

August 6, 2018

Our policy is based on a clear-eyed assessment of the Iranian dictatorship, its sponsorship of terrorism, and its continuing aggression in the Middle East and all around the world. President Donald J. Trump

REIMPOSING TOUGH SANCTIONS: President Donald J. Trump's Administration is taking action to reimpose sanctions lifted under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

President Trump made clear when he ended United States participation in the JCPOA that his Administration would be reimposing tough sanctions on the Iranian regime. In connection with the withdrawal from the JCPOA, the Administration laid out two wind-down periods of 90 days and 180 days for business activities in or involving Iran.

Consistent with President Trump's decision, the Administration will be reimposing specified sanctions after August 6, the final day of the 90-day wind-down period.

On August 7, sanctions will be reimposed on: The purchase or acquisition of United States bank notes by the Government of Iran. Iran's trade in gold and other precious metals. Graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software used in industrial processes. Transactions related to the Iranian rial. Activities relating to Iran's issuance of sovereign debt Iran's automotive sector.

The remaining sanctions will be reimposed on November 5, including sanctions on: Iran's port operators and energy, shipping, and shipbuilding sectors. Iran's petroleum-related transactions. Transactions by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.

The Administration will also relist hundreds of individuals, entities, vessels, and aircraft that were previously included on sanctions lists.

ENSURING FULL ENFORCEMENT: President Trump will continue to stand up to the Iranian regime's aggression, and the United States will fully enforce the reimposed sanctions.

The Iranian regime has exploited the global financial system to fund its malign activities. The regime has used this funding to support terrorism, promote ruthless regimes, destabilize the region, and abuse the human rights of its own people.

The Trump Administration intends to fully enforce the sanctions reimposed against Iran, and those who fail to wind down activities with Iran risk severe consequences.

Since the President announced his decision on May 8 to withdraw from the JCPOA, the Administration has sanctioned 38 Iran-related targets in six separate actions.

PROTECTING OUR NATIONAL SECURITY: The JCPOA was defective at its core and failed to guarantee the safety of the American people.

President Trump's decision to withdraw from the Iran deal upheld his highest obligation: to protect the safety and security of the American people.

The Iranian regime only grew more aggressive under the cover of the JCPOA and was given access to more resources to pursue its malign activities. The regime continues to threaten the United States and our allies, exploit the international financial system, and support terrorism and foreign proxies.

The Administration is working with allies to bring pressure on the Iranian regime to achieve an agreement that denies all paths to a nuclear weapon and addresses other malign activities.

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Recount of May vote in Iraq credible, transparent: UN

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 06:20PM

The United Nations has commended the "credible and transparent" manual recount of votes from Iraq's parliamentary elections held in May, calling for further steps towards the formation of a government in the country.

As Iraq's election commission on Monday concluded the manual recount of the votes, Alice Walpole, a UN envoy to Iraq said the United Nations had observed the process and found it to be "conducted in a manner that is credible, professional and transparent."

"We are very pleased that it's been concluded and we look forward to the next steps in this process towards the formation of the new government," Walpole said in a statement.

Iraq's state television announced the conclusion of the vote recount, saying the results were expected to be released in the coming days.

The recount was ordered by the Iraqi parliament in June and officially launched in early July after a government report concluded there had been serious violations in an initial count using electronic vote-counting systems.

After the announcement of the final results, lawmakers will take their seats in parliament, elect a president and begin the process for forming a government.

A spokesman for the electoral commission, Judge Laith Hamza, said the recount "in all polling stations in Iraq and abroad where complaints were registered has ended."

The commission announced that such checks would not be undertake for Russafa, one of the largest voting districts in eastern capital of Baghdad, where a fire in June broke out in a ballot warehouse.

On June 10, a storage site housing ballot boxes from Iraq's parliamentary elections in Baghdad caught fire ahead of a recount.

In a statement, Hamza said "882 ballot boxes entirely went up in smoke."

"The official results will be announced shortly," said Imad Jamil, responsible for the vote in Russafa.

The Iraqi government had reported widespread violations in the elections, which saw a bloc led by Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr win. Another Shia bloc, emerging from volunteer forces that had battled the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group over the past three years, came second. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi and his bloc came third.

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Relocate Rohingya refugees to safer grounds: HRW to Bangladesh

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 10:24AM

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has warned against the threat of natural disasters facing the Rohingya Muslim refugees living in an overcrowded mega camp in Bangladesh's border region near Myanmar, calling on Dhaka to relocate the hapless refugees to safer places.

The US-based rights group said in a 68-page report on Monday that the Muslim refugees  who have fled a state-sponsored ethnic cleansing campaign at home in Myanmar  should not have to face floods and landslides, urging the Bangladeshi officials to provide them with better shelters as well as adequate education.

Almost one million Rohingya Muslims have fled their homes in Myanmar's Rakhine State to take refuge in border camps in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar.

Some 700,000 of them arrived in Bangladesh after the latest military crackdown on the stateless minority started in August last year.

The report points out the risks of communicable diseases, fires, community tensions and sexual violence in packed areas.

The average space in the mega-camp section of Cox's Bazar is 10.7 square meters per person, compared to a refugee camp standard of 45 square meters per person.

"It's an incubation for contagious disease, for social dysfunction, domestic violence for example, and things like fire," Bill Frelick,

refugee rights director at HRW, told reporters while unveiling the report dubbed, "'Bangladesh Is Not My Country': The Plight of Rohingya Refugees from Myanmar."

"Immediately what is needed is relocation," he insisted.

HRW said it had identified six feasible sites that could accommodate 263,000 refugees living in dire conditions.

It warned, however, against moving the refugees to an uninhabitable island in the Bay of Bengal called Bhasan Char amid reports of such a plan.

Other recommendations by HRW were for Bangladeshi authorities to provide the Rohingya Muslims forced out of Myanmar with legal refugee status, freedom of movement as well as cyclone shelters.

The report called for greater contributions from donor governments, agencies and NGOs to help improve the conditions. It said an appeal for $136.6 million for shelter and non-food items was only 14 percent funded as of last month.

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HRW Opposes Plan to Move Rohingyas to Uninhabited Island

By VOA News August 06, 2018

A human rights group is urging Bangladesh to reconsider its plans to move Rohingya refugees to a small, uninhabited island.

Human Rights Watch said in a report issued Monday that the mangrove-and-grass island of Bhasan Char has been "formed only in the last 20 years by silt from Bangladesh's Meghna River."

In the 68-page report  Bangladesh Is Not My Country: The Plight of Rohingya Refugees from Myanmar  experts predict that Bhasan Char could become completely submerged in the event of a strong cyclone during a high tide.

The rights group said Bhasan Char is not the only relocation option, since six other "feasible relocation sites" have been identified.

Bhasan Char "would most likely have very limited access to education and health services, and few opportunities for livelihoods or self-sufficiency," according to the report.

The New York-based organization said the lack of assurance of freedom of movement to and from Bhasan Char and its isolation "would essentially turn the island into a detention center."

Bill Frelick, HRW's refugee rights director and author of the report, said, "Bangladesh should register fleeing Rohingya as refugees, ensure adequate health care and education, and let them pursue livelihoods outside the camp."

The report said construction crews have already prepared Bhasan Char for the transfer of refugees.

In August 2017, Myanmar's military launched a major counteroffensive in Rakhine state in response to attacks on state security posts by Roghingya militants.

Nearly 700,000 Rohingyas fled across the border into Bangladesh as security forces carried out numerous human rights abuses, including murder, rape and arson in a siege both the United Nations and the United States described as a "textbook example" of ethnic cleansing.

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Moscow Takes 'Reciprocal' Action After Greece's Expulsion Of Russian Diplomats

RFE/RL August 06, 2018

Russia says it has summoned Greece's ambassador to Moscow to inform him of "reciprocal measures" after Athens's expulsion of two Russian diplomats last month over allegations of meddling with its relations with Macedonia.

The Russian Foreign Ministry handed Ambassador Andreas Friganas a diplomatic note informing him of the measures taken by Moscow in response to Athens's "unfriendly actions toward Russian diplomats and citizens in July," the ministry said in a statement on August 6.

The statement did not name the Greek diplomats Moscow had expelled or say when it had asked them to leave.

Greece last month expelled two Russian diplomats from Athens and barred two other Russian envoys from entering the country, charging that they helped fund protests against the settlement of a longstanding name dispute between Greece and Macedonia that has accelerated Skopje's bids to join NATO and the European Union.

Moscow denied trying to block the settlement by helping to foment protests against it by opposition parties in both Greece and Macedonia, but it has severely criticized the agreement and its goal of facilitating Macedonia's NATO ambitions.

On July 20, Russia summoned Fryganas to express a "decisive protest against continued anti-Russian statements by the Greek side."

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused the Greek government of participating in "dirty provocations" against Moscow, and promised a "tit-for-tat" response to the expulsions.

The Greek Foreign Ministry in response denounced what it called "the constant disrespect for Greece" coming from Moscow and said it "must stop."

Macedonia is one of several Western Balkan nations that have ambitions to join NATO and the EU. Russia strongly opposes NATO expansion in the area, which during the Soviet era was under Moscow's orbit of influence.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and Interfax

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/moscow-takes- reciprocal-action-after-greece-s-expulsion-of- russian-diplomats/29415779.html

Copyright (c) 2018. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Saudi Arabia severs ties with Canada over Ottawa 'interference'

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 01:19AM

Saudi Arabia has expelled the Canadian ambassador and recalled its envoy after severing business ties with Ottawa over claims of interference in its internal affairs.

"The kingdom of Saudi Arabia... will not accept interference in its internal affairs or imposed diktats from any country," said the Saudi Foreign Ministry on Monday.

"The kingdom announces that it is recalling its ambassador... to Canada for consultation," it added.

It also noted that the Canadian ambassador to Riyadh had 24 hours to leave and that it was "freezing of all new commercial and investment transactions" with Ottawa.

The Canadian Embassy in Riyadh said it was "gravely concerned" over a spike of arrests of human rights campaigners in the Saudi kingdom including gender rights activist Samar Badawi.

"We urge the Saudi authorities to immediately release them and all other peaceful #humanrights activists," tweeted the Canadian embassy.

"It is very unfortunate that the words 'immediate release' appeared in the Canadian statement... it is unacceptable in relations between countries," tweeted the Saudi foreign ministry in response.

Riyadh also released a statement on the official Saudi Press Agency, in which it confirmed its commitment to not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries and in return rejected any intervention by them.

"Any further step from the Canadian side in that direction will be considered as acknowledgment of our right to interfere in the Canadian domestic affairs," said the statement.

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Canada's Stance on Saudi Arabia Based on 'Distorted' Information - FM

Sputnik News

21:47 06.08.2018

CAIRO (Sputnik) - Canada's stance on Saudi Arabia regarding the release of activists is based on "distorted" information, Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Jubeir said on Monday, adding that the rights of the detained were ensured by the Saudi legal system.

"Canada's surprising position is based on distorted information, the detention of the people in question was carried out in accordance with our legal framework, which guarantees that their rights are protected," Jubeir said on Twitter.

The minister added that Saudi Arabia did not interfere in other states' affairs and would not allow other countries' to meddle in Riyadh's.

Earlier in the day, Riyadh announced that it was freezing all new trade with Canada and expelling the Canadian ambassador over the country's meddling in Saudi affairs. Canada urged Riyadh last week to free several activists.

On Friday, the Canadian Foreign Ministry tweeted that it was "gravely concerned" over new arrests of civil society and women's rights activists in Saudi Arabia, including Samar Badawi.

Samar Badawi and Nassima Sadah were detained last week. Badawi's brother and former husband are already serving sentences in prison.

 Sputnik

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Syrian warplanes pound positions of Daesh, Nusra Front in Sweida, Hama

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 05:00PM

Syrian army warplanes have launched airstrikes against the positions of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in the country's southwestern province of Sweida and those of the Jabhat Fateh al-Sham Takfiri terrorist group, formerly known as al-Nusra Front, in the central province of Hama.

Syria's official news agency, SANA, citing its correspondent, reported on Monday that the government's fighter jets had pounded positions held by remnants of the Daesh outfit near al-Kra'a, Beir Qinyan and Sneim Gharaz towns deep inside Sweida's desert areas.

The report added that "scores of terrorists" had been killed in the airstrikes and many others were wounded and their vehicles and ammunition were destroyed as a result of the raids.

Syria troops defeated Daesh late last year, but the terror group's remnants have been trying to regroup and have mounted a series of hit-and run attacks.

A report says at least 100 Daesh terrorists have fled Syria's southwest toward areas bordering Jordan.

Additionally on Monday, Syrian fighter jets pounded positions held by Jabhat Fateh al-Sham terrorists and those of its affiliated outfits in Hama's northern areas. SANA's reporter in the province said that army units conducted bombardments against dens and supply routes of terrorists in the villages of Zaizoun, al-Ziyara, al-Zakat, al-Arba'ain and al-Janabra in the northern countryside of Hama.

The correspondent added that several of terrorists' positions were destroyed in the bombardments and a number of terrorists were killed.

In recent weeks, the Syrian army has been making significant territorial gains against terrorists in the country's south. Militants have been handing over their heavy weapons to Syrian government forces and leaving the region in negotiated surrender deals.

Syria has been gripped by foreign-backed militancy since March 2011. The Syrian government says the Israeli regime and its Western and regional allies are aiding Takfiri terrorist groups wreaking havoc in the country.

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Militants in Idlib arrest members for seeking reconciliation with Syrian govt.

Iran Press TV

Mon Aug 6, 2018 06:49AM

Turkish-backed militants have arrested at least 45 members who sought reconciliation with the Syrian government amid Turkey's attempts to stave off an offensive by Damascus to liberate Idlib.

Idlib is the last major territory still in militant hands, the capture of which will leave the Syrian army with no choice other than retaking its territories on the border with Turkey.

Last month, Syria's envoy to the United Nations hit out at Turkey's growing influence in his country's north, calling it an "occupation" and vowing to "expel" its troops.

Syrian troops have retaken three strategic provinces on the border with Jordan and the occupied Golan Heights in recent weeks after reaching reconciliation deals with militants.

Diplomatic sources were reported as saying last week that Turkey was trying to forestall a similar scenario in Idlib. On Sunday, the National Liberation Front (NLF), formed with Turkish backing in May, arrested some of its members who sought reconciliation deals.

"The National Liberation Front launched a campaign a week ago... that peaked today with the arrest of 45 reconciliation activists and candidates for municipal elections" announced by the government in the provinces of Hama and Idlib, a spokesman said.

According to the spokesman, the NLF has made a total of 60 arrests since the beginning of the campaign.

Last week, a Turkish diplomatic source was quoted as saying that "Ankara is working with other opposition groups in Idlib to eliminate the militants" in order to fend off a Syrian operation.

Most of Idlib is controlled by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, formerly al-Qaeda's affiliate in Syria.

Ahrar al-Sham and Nureddine al-Zinki merged in February with Turkish backing as the Syrian Liberation Front. On August 1, the Syrian Liberation Front merged with four other militant groups to establish the NLF.

According to the so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights chief Rami Abdel Rahman, Idlib has since "seen an upsurge in security chaos and mutual assassinations between rebel groups".

President Bashar al-Assad told Russian media last month that Syria's next priority was retaking Idlib after the army's liberation of three provinces on the border with Jordan and the occupied Golan Heights.

In recent weeks, the Syrian army has been making significant territorial gains against terrorists in the country's south. Militants have been handing over their heavy weapons to Syrian government forces and leaving the region in negotiated surrender deals.

Assad said on August 1 that final victory over terrorism is close thanks to the sacrifices of the Syrian army forces.

The Observatory confirmed Sunday's arrests, saying "nearly 50" people had been arrested in areas straddling Hama and Idlib over "attempts to reconcile" with government forces and to participate in "meetings with its intelligence services."

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Kurdish Forces Ready to Assist Syrian Army in Sweida Offensive  YPG Commander

Sputnik News

18:03 06.08.2018(updated 18:04 06.08.2018)

After defeating various hardline Islamist militant groups in Deraa and Quneitra, the Syrian Army is set to oust Daesh* terrorists from the Sweida Governorate in southern Syria.

Kurdish forces are willing and ready to assist government forces in their Sweida anti-Daesh campaign, the Firat news agency reported on Sunday, citing a YPG commander.

In an interview, Commander General Sipan Hemo said the YPG has repeatedly demonstrated its competence in battling and defeating Daesh terrorists in many parts of Syria.

"[The] YPG has proved its success in the fight against ISIS [Daesh in Arabic] and terrorist organizations. The YPG forces under the roof of SDF have liberated one third of the country from ISIS," the senior YPG officer said.

Syrian Army troops and allied local militiamen were enraged by a string of Daesh terrorist attacks which targeted Sweida's Druze community last month, killing some 200 civilians. Dozens of young girls were also abducted by the terrorists and are yet to be released.

Commander General Hemo likened the assault on Sweida, which he described as a "savage act," to Daesh's campaign against Kobane a few years ago, expressing the Kurds' solidarity with the people of Sweida.

In addition to mobilizing forces in Sweida, the Syrian Army has also been deploying troops and military assets to northeastern Syria, with offensives in Idlib and north Latakia widely expected to be launched in the next few weeks.

Last month, a Kurdish official said the SDF would be willing to fight alongside government forces in Idlib, as most of the groups occupying the province are backed by Ankara, which has commissioned several cross-border operations against Kurdish forces in both Syria and Iraq.

*Daesh (also known as ISIS/ISIL/Islamic State) is a terrorist group banned in Russia.

 Sputnik

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Taiwan allocates 21.3% of proposed defense budget to indigenous arms

ROC Central News Agency

2018/08/06 15:27:51

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) Taiwan will spend more than one-fifth of its defense budget next year on the development of indigenous weapons, in line with the government's policy of strengthening national security, President Tsai Ing-wen () said Monday.

In the government's proposals for the 2019 national budget, defense spending has been increased by NT$18.3 billion (US$592.6 million) from the previous year to NT$346 billion, which represents 2.16 percent of the country's gross domestic product, Tsai said.

Of the total defense budget, NT$73.6 billion, or 21.3 percent, will be spent on developing indigenous defense systems, an increase of NT$25 billion, as part of the effort to build Taiwan's warfare capability, she said.

The allocations also include NT$95.1 billion for military investment, an increase of NT$13.9 billion from the previous year, Tsai said during the unveiling of a plaque at the Navy Command Headquarters.

The plaque, which bears the inscription "New Navy Sets Sail," symbolizes the beginning of a new era for the Navy, during which it will use domestically built submarines, Tsai said, referring to Taiwan's ongoing construction of defense submarines.

Since the late 1980s when Taiwan bought two Dutch-built Zwaardvis-class diesel submarines, it has had difficulty procuring others and had been planning to build its own, Tsai said.

She said that due to several daunting challenges, however, the idea got stuck until she came to office in 2016.

"Faced with such challenges, we should try to resolve them, instead of recoiling in fear," the president said.

In keeping with her administration's policy of developing indigenous submarines, she said, it has been integrating the resources of industry, academia, government and international partners.

"Step by step, we have been making progresses in resolving the bottlenecks in innovation and manufacturing," Tsai said.

(By Shih Hsiu-chuan)

Enditem/pc

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The T1 Terminal of Germany's Frankfurt Airport reopened on Tuesday afternoon after a security incident led to a partial evacuation T1 at the country's largest aviation hub.

An aircraft crosses a highway after landing at the airport in Frankfurt, Germany, late Thursday, July 5, 2018. [File Photo: IC]

The partial evacuation of Frankfurt airport is over and "operations are in progress again", German police said on Twitter.

"Terminal evacuation at # Frankfurt #Airport is completed. The affected areas are open and operations are progressing again," the police said.

The T1 Terminal of the airport had been evacuated due to a police operation, the police said on Twitter. All boarding procedures were temporarily halted during the police intervention.

Speaking to the German press agency (DPA), police spokesperson Reza Ahmari explained that the intervention was a response to the illicit entry of "at least one person" into the secure area of the airport.

The evacuation was prompted by a security assistant mistakenly allowing the French family of four into the secure area even though they were supposed to be subject to a secondary screening.

The family was located, questioned and allowed to continue on its journey, DPA said in its report.

According to the airport operator Fraport, the interruption of boarding led to the cancellation of at least 49 flights.

Several planes are currently still stranded on the tarmac as they await new instructions. However, the B and C sections of terminal one remained operational throughout the police operations.

A Fraport spokesperson announced that some flights had been rerouted to nearby hubs such as Munich, Zurich and Vienna.

Lufthansa, the largest airline at the airport, also reserved a large number of hotel rooms in the Rhein-Main region as a precautionary measure in response to the intermittent disruption of traffic.

A similar aviation security incident at Munich airport in July led to the cancellation of at least 200 flights and widespread delays which affected around 5,000 passengers.

At the time, police only re-opened the affected secure area of the airport two hours after its evacuation.




International cooperation leading to submarine breakthroughs: Tsai

ROC Central News Agency

2018/08/06 22:13:53

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) Taiwan has been making breakthroughs in resolving bottlenecks encountered in the design and manufacturing of submarines through international cooperation and other efforts at home, President Tsai Ing-wen () said Monday.

In a speech delivered at the unveiling of a plaque at the Navy Command Headquarters, Tsai said "international friends" have lent their support to Taiwan because they have seen the government's resolve to develop the nation's indigenous defense systems.

Tsai has vowed to build up Taiwan's indigenous defense industry, focusing on submarines, frigates and military aircraft, through technical exchanges with other countries to boost the nation's warfare capabilities.

A source told CNA later Monday that CSBC Corporation Taiwan, (), which was commissioned to plan and design the submarines in late 2016, would not rule out the possibility of seeking cooperation with international naval architects to facilitate the project.

The state-owned shipbuilder has also planned to recruit 220 engineers, twice the average number of recruits over the past three years, and have its senior engineers transferred to the project, the source said.

The CSBC has designated two sites for manufacturing submarines, and preparations will be ready by the end of this year and in 2020, respectively, the source said.

Tsai did not give any examples of the "breakthroughs" that have been made in submarine development, but in April the United States Department of State approved the marketing license needed for its domestic manufacturers to sell technology to Taiwan that would help Taiwan develop its own indigenous submarines.

The approval means Taiwan will be able to acquire the technology needed to build such weapons systems as combat systems, torpedoes, and missile systems, he said.

(By You Kai-hsiang and Shih Hsiu-chuan)

Enditem/ls

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Taiwan still mulling countermeasures to name change by airlines: MOTC

ROC Central News Agency

2018/08/06 15:48:51

Taipei, Aug. 6 (CNA) The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) said Monday that the government is considering its next move in response to the recent decision by a number of international airlines to change the way they refer to Taiwan on their websites due to pressure from China.

The Taiwan government has asked the airlines to change back Taiwan's designation and is now considering how to proceed further on the issue, Deputy Minister of Transportation and Communications Wang Kwo-tsai () said.

"We wrote a letter to the foreign aviation companies on Aug. 3, asking them to make due corrections, and we're currently mulling possible countermeasures," Wang said. "But there are no answers for the time being."

He was responding to a report Monday in the United Daily News, which said that the MOTC was considering countermeasures against the 44 foreign airlines, such as adjusting their time slots at Taiwan airports and denying them the use of jet bridges.

According to officials of the Civil Aeronautics Administration, however, adopting such retaliatory measures might invite similar responses from other countries against Taiwan-based airlines, which in turn would hurt Taiwan's aviation industry.

On April 25, China issued an order for international airlines to stop listing Taiwan as a country on their websites.

Since then, some airlines have been using the terms Taiwan China; China Taipei; Taipei, CN; or simply Asia, East Asia and Northeast Asia without mentioning the country.

(By Wang Shu-feng and Flor Wang)

Enditem/pc

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As Hiroshima observes 73rd anniversary of atomic bombing, UN notes 'stalled' progress on nuclear disarmament

6 August 2018 - The world needs the continued moral leadership of the people of Hiroshima, the top United Nations disarmament official said on Monday, commemorating the 73rd anniversary of the atomic bombing that devastated the city while lamenting that after decades of momentum towards a nuclear-free world, "progress has stalled."

"Tensions between nuclear-armed States are rising. Nuclear arsenals are being modernized and, in some cases, expanded," said Izumi Nakamitsu, High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, speaking on behalf of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony.

The 6 August 1945 bombing of Hiroshima by the United States, killed tens of thousands of people, many of whom succumbed to their injuries in subsequent months. Those who survived the bombing there, and at Nagasaki a few days later, are referred to in Japan as hibakusha.

"It is a privilege to pay tribute to the citizens of Hiroshima and all those who perished in the blinding flash of nuclear destruction, and in the weeks, months and years that followed, and to stand in solidarity with the Hibakusha and their families," continued Ms. Nakamitsu, underscoring that what had occurred on that day in 1945 "cannot and must not ever happen again."

"The future of our children and of our children's children depends upon it," she stressed.

According to the UN disarmament chief, the legacy of Hiroshima is one of resilience: "The city we see today, this bustling metropolis, is testament to that fact," she elaborated. "You, the people of Hiroshima, are not only brave survivors of the atomic bomb, but courageous activists for peace and reconciliation."

Ms. Nakamitsu offered her sincere thanks to the people of Hiroshima for their decades of educating the world about "the threat nuclear weapons pose to our global, national and human security."

She pointed to last year's adoption of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons as demonstrating international support for permanently ending the nuclear threat, as well as frustration at the slow pace of achieving this goal.

"World leaders must return to dialogue and diplomacy, to a common path towards the total elimination of nuclear weapons and a safer and more secure world for all," she stated.

The Secretary-General is leaving UN Headquarters in New York on Monday night, to take part in the 73rd Nagasaki Peace Ceremony on Thursday.

He is also due to meet Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and with Foreign Minister Taro Kono during his visit, to honour the hibakusha, and deliver his message that leaders must return to dialogue and diplomacy.

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Vancouver, August 7, 2018 - Westminster Resources Ltd. (TSXV: WMR) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a letter of intent to acquire an attractive land package in the promising La Ronge district of Saskatchewan. The project package consists of 10,858 hectares within a group of claims historically focused on nickel-PGE, orogenic gold and VMS deposit types.

Glen Indra, Westminsters President and CEO, commented: We continue to think this is a good time to acquire interesting projects in the copper space. The La Ronge district has long been prospective for numerous metals, and its copper potential is now only being studied. Im particularly excited that there is an extensive dataset to be re-complied and re-interpreted to advance the project quickly and cost-effectively.

The 10,858 ha land package consists of 2 contiguous claims within the La Ronge and Rottenstone Domains, and are located approximately 60 kilometres north east of the town of La Ronge, Saskatchewan, with nearby road access from Highway 102. The property has numerous mineral occurrences which include copper, but also nickel, gold, lead, zinc and uranium. In addition, there are several known historical geophysical conductors identified on the southern part of the package which are of interest.

Regionally, the La Ronge Domain is comprised dominantly of the 150 km long by 10 to 20 km wide Central Metavolcanic Belt, bordered by the Crew Lake Belt of metasedimentary assemblages to the northwest and the MacLean Lake Belt of meta-arkosic rocks to the southwest.

Terms of the acquisition include making exploration expenditures totalling $400,000 over 3 years and issuing 4 million shares in two equal tranches to earn an 80% interest in the property, subject to TSX-V approval. Westminster will be receiving additional historical data for compilation and re-interpretation within the 30-day due diligence period

This news release has been reviewed and approved by Derrick Strickland, P.Geo. (a qualified person for the purpose of National Instrument 43-101, standards and disclosure for mineral projects.)

About Westminster:

Westminster Resources is a Latin American focused mining exploration company. The company is in the process of acquiring a 100% interest in a package of highly prospective copper properties in southern Peru. These properties total over 36,000 hectares within the country's prolific coastal copper beltsource of nearly half of Peru's copper production. Prior work has identified both porphyry and IOCG style mineralization. The company also holds a 100% interest in the 18,000-hectare El Cobre property in Sonora, Mexico, prospective for world-class epithermal and copper-gold porphyry systems.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Westminster Resources Ltd.

GLEN INDRA

President & CEO

For further information regarding Westminster Resources Ltd., please call 604608 0400, Toll Free: 18776080007.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulations Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility or accuracy of this release.

This news release may contain forwardlooking information which is not comprised of historical facts. Forward looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward looking information. Forwardlooking information in this news release may include, but is not limited to, the Company's objectives, goals or future plans, including the proposed transaction with Latin Resources Ltd. and closing of such transaction. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forwardlooking information include, but are not limited to, those risks set out in the Company's public documents filed on SEDAR. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forwardlooking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forwardlooking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.
New intercepts assay 23.7 gpt gold over 4.5 m & 10.9 gpt gold over 2.9 m

Individual assays up to 230 gpt gold over 0.4 m (6.7 oz per ton over 1.4 ft)

New drill intercepts located +1,000 m below historic production areas of I-M Mine

I-M historic production of 2.4 M oz gold @ 17 gpt over vertical distances of 310 - 475 m

Vancouver, August 7, 2018 - Rise Gold Corp. (CSE: RISE) (OTCQB: RYES) ("Rise Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce additional assay results from on-going diamond core drilling at the Idaho-Maryland ("I-M") Gold Project.

Drillhole B-18-05 previously extended the Brunswick veins to a vertical depth of ~475 m below the B1600 level with an intercept which assayed 22.4 gpt gold over 5.2 m (see Rise Gold news release dated July 23rd 2018).

Drillhole B-18-05 was continued to target the down-dip extension of the Idaho Veins and intersected two new veins which are believed to correlate with the Idaho 3 Vein system. The first, named the IB30 Vein, assayed 23.7 gpt gold over 4.5 m at a downhole depth of 1,590 m. The IB30 Vein is an important gold-bearing structure and is interpreted to be the down-dip extension of the Idaho 3 Vein system. The interval adjacent to the quartz vein was exceptionally high grade and assayed 230 gpt (6.7 oz/ton) gold over 0.4 m. A wide zone of alteration and lower grade gold mineralization surrounds the IB30 Vein with the entire zone averaging 6.9 gpt gold over 18.0 m.

Assays are pending for several other quartz veins intersected between the IB30 and IB50 Veins.

Rise Gold plans additional drilling to confirm the orientation and up-dip extension of these veins towards the Idaho vein system. Figures 1 & 2 illustrate these intersections in relation to the historic mine workings; a summary of the assay highlights are presented in Table 1.

Benjamin Mossman, CEO of Rise Gold commented "These deep drill intercepts demonstrate the large exploration potential of the Idaho-Maryland Gold Project. To be able to hit deep high-grade gold mineralization with a single blind hole speaks to the great strength of this gold system. Rise has intersected multiple zones of important gold mineralization in all five holes completed to date. This deposit is known for hosting exceptionally continuous gold veins and every drill hole reinforces our belief that the Idaho-Maryland is one of the most exciting high-grade gold projects in America."

TABLE 1  New Drill Intercept Highlights from B-18-05

Hole From (m) To (m) Gold (gpt) Intercept Length (m) Estimated True Width (m) * Vein B-18-05 1590.1 1594.6 23.7 4.5 3.2 IB30 Including 1593.6 1594.0 230.0 0.4 B-18-05 1887.5 1890.4 10.9 2.9 2.0 IB50 Including 1889.4 1889.9 61.0 0.5

* The core angle of the quartz vein was observed to be ~45 degrees which suggests a true width of ~70% of the intercept length.

Drillhole B-18-05 final downhole depth of 1,910 m, collared at an azimuth of ~40 degrees and inclination of -77 degrees horizontal.

FIGURE 1  Isometric view of B-18-05 showing correlation with Idaho Veins





To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

http://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/2255/36357_a1533624816350_18.jpg

FIGURE 2  Section of B-18-05 illustrating relationship between deep intercepts and I-M Mine





To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

http://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/2255/36357_a1533624818271_43.jpg



Quality Control and Assay Methods

Dr. Dirk Meckert, P.Geo, the qualified person for the exploration drill results disclosure contained in this news release, has studied the drill core discussed in this news release, and has reviewed the analytical and quality control results.

Benjamin Mossman, P.Eng, CEO of Rise Gold, is the qualified person for the historic production disclosure contained in this news release. Historic production at the Idaho-Maryland Mine is disclosed in the Technical Report on the Idaho-Maryland Project dated June 1st, 2017 and available on www.sedar.com.

Rise has implemented a quality control program for its drill program to ensure best practice in the sampling and analysis of the drill core. This includes the insertion of blind blanks, duplicates and certified standards. HQ- and NQ-sized drill core is saw cut with half of the drill core sampled at intervals based on geological criteria including lithology, visual mineralization, and alteration. The remaining half of the core is stored on-site at the Company's warehouse in Grass Valley, California. Drill core samples are transported in sealed bags to ALS Minerals analytical assay lab in Reno, Nevada.

All gold assays were obtained using a method of screen fire assaying. This procedure involves screening a large pulverized sample of up to 1 kg at 100 microns. Any +100 micron material remaining on the screen is retained and analyzed in its entirety by fire assay with gravimetric finish and reported as the Au (+) fraction result. The 100 micron fraction is homogenized and two sub-samples of 30-50 grams are analyzed by fire assay with AAS finish. If the grade of the material exceeds 10 gpt the sample is re-assayed using a gravimetric finish. The average of the two results is taken and reported as the Au (-) fraction result. All three values are used in calculating the combined gold content of the plus and minus fractions.

About Rise Gold Corp

Rise Gold is an exploration-stage mining company. The Company's principal asset is the historic past-producing Idaho-Maryland Gold Mine located in Nevada County, California, USA. The Idaho-Maryland Gold Mine is one of the United States' greatest past producing gold mines with total past production of 2,414,000 oz of gold at an average mill head grade of 17 gpt gold from 1866-1955. Historic production at the Idaho-Maryland Mine is disclosed in the Technical Report on the Idaho-Maryland Project dated June 1st, 2017 and available on www.sedar.com. Rise Gold is incorporated in Nevada, USA and maintains its head office in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Benjamin Mossman

President, CEO and Director

Rise Gold Corp.

For further information, please contact:

Rise Gold Corp.

Suite 650, 669 Howe Street

Vancouver, BC V6C 0B4

T: 604.260.4577

info@risegoldcorp.com

www.risegoldcorp.com

The CSE has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the contents of this news release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur.

Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions related to certain factors including, without limitation, obtaining all necessary approvals, meeting expenditure and financing requirements, compliance with environmental regulations, title matters, operating hazards, metal prices, political and economic factors, competitive factors, general economic conditions, relationships with vendors and strategic partners, governmental regulation and supervision, seasonality, technological change, industry practices, and one-time events that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information contained in this release. Rise undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law.
VANCOUVER, Aug. 7, 2018 - Medgold Resources Corp. (TSX-V: MED) (the "Company" or "Medgold") is pleased to announce that diamond drilling at the Tlamino Gold Project has recommenced for a minimum Phase 2 program of 2,400 m. As well, preparation for 40 line-km of an IP-Resistivity program at the Karamanica Zone has commenced. The exploration and development of the Tlamino Gold Project is being conducted under programs which are fully funded by Fortuna Silver Mines Inc. (NYSE: FSM) (TSX: FVI) ("Fortuna"), and directed by a joint Fortuna-Medgold technical committee pursuant to the terms of the Tlamino Option Agreement announced on May 1, 2017.

Dan James, President of Medgold, said: "We're very pleased to have resumed drilling at Tlamino, following a short break to prepare for a much larger second phase of drilling. We will continue drilling to the west of the previously drilled zones, stepping-out along the main detachment structure, aiming to drill-test an area of 1,400 m by 500 m. We hope to build on our strong results from the Phase 1 program, which confirmed the presence of flat-lying high-grade mineralization, and is extensive over an area of at least 300 m by 200 m. We look forward to reporting initial results from this second phase of drilling in September 2018. We will also be reporting geophysical results, from the under-explored Karamanica Zone, in the Fall."

The Tlamino Gold Project

The Tlamino Gold Project (the "Project") is located in Southern Serbia, close to the borders of both Bulgaria and Macedonia, approximately five hours south of the capital, Belgrade. The Project is comprised of two exploration licences, Donje Tlamino and Surlica-Dukat, each approximately 100 km2. All exploration work at the Project is fully-funded by Fortuna, which has an option to earn up to 70% of the Project by spending US $8 million on exploration over five years and completing a Preliminary Economic Assessment (see Medgold news release of March 7, 2017).

The Barje Zone

The Barje Zone is host to a large outcrop of intense brecciation and mineralization, which was identified and sampled by Medgold in 2017, yielding a best result of 84 m of 5.60 g/t Au and 105 g/t Ag (see Company press release on July 18, 2017), following a period of target generation and desktop studies. An initial phase of diamond drilling at the Barje Zone (734 m from 7 holes) was completed in June 2018. All 7 drill holes intersected significant mineralization with a best intersection of 30 m of 5.45 g/t Au and 11 g/t Ag (see Company press release on July 5, 2018). A summary table of significant intersections from our first phase of drilling is shown in the table below.



Table 1  Summary of Drill Results from Phase 1

Drill Hole From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) BAR001 2.38 33.20 30.82 2.06 54.7 BAR002 13.35 48.00 34.65 3.11 27.5 BAR003 2.00 28.10 26.10 2.44 219 BAR004 2.20 24.30 22.10 1.83 109 BAR005 1.60 102.40 100.80 0.52 5 including 82.15 102.40 20.25 1.08 11 BAR006 74.00 104.00 30.00 5.45 11 including 95.00 104.00 9.00 14.17 58 BAR007 89.50 101.60 12.10 3.37 12

Mineralization has been identified over an area of at least 300 m by 200 m, and demonstrates a close spatial correlation with the IP-chargeability anomaly, which extends at least 700 m further to the west for a total of area of approximately 1,400 m east-west and 500 m north-south.

Gold-silver mineralization at Barje is associated with tectonic brecciation along a large regional detachment fault which is mostly hosted within the hangingwall schists. This brecciation has structurally prepared large volumes of porous and permeable rocks, suitable to host mineralization. Intense hydrothermal breccias, with sulphide mineralization groundmasses and altered schist clasts, typically form at the base of the hangingwall zones in close proximity to the detachment structure. These zones of intense brecciation, associated with sulphide mineralization, typically yield high-grade gold-silver intercepts. Brecciation, fracturing and sulphide mineralization is pervasive across large zones of the hanging wall schists and yields broad intersections of low-grade (>0.5 g/t Au) to moderate-grade (>1 g/t Au) gold plus silver mineralization.

The Karamanica Zone

The Karamanica Zone is part of the Project optioned to Fortuna, and is located approximately 8 km to the west of the Barje Zone. In 2017 Medgold completed a program of detailed mapping and rock sampling, plus a grid-soil sampling program, with samples collected on a 200 m by 50 m grid. Results from the soil sampling program highlight two large gold-in-soil anomalies. The first extends over an area of approximately 1 km by 1 km, and is associated with a regional northwest-trending fault, which offsets felsic volcanic rocks from basement schists and calcareous schists. The second, located approximately 1 km north of the first anomaly, extends over approximately 800 m by 600 m. Mineralization is considered to be associated with disseminated to massive sulphides within the host calcareous schists. The same fault structure, less than 2 km away along strike on an adjacent licence held by a third-party, hosts blind massive carbonate-replacement Pb-Zn-Ag mineralization. A ground-IP geophysical program will commence later this month, covering these gold-in-soil anomalies, for a total proposed program of approximately 40 line-km.

About Medgold Resources Corp.

Medgold is a Serbia-focused, TSX-V listed, project generator company targeting early-stage gold properties in the Oligo-Miocene Belt of Serbia. Run by an experienced management team with a successful track-record of building value in resource companies, Medgold is aiming to become a leading European gold exploration company.

Qualified Person

Mr. David Clark, M.Sc., P.Geo., is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Clark approved the disclosure of the technical information contained in this news release and has approved its disclosure.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

Half-core samples are delivered by Medgold personnel directly to the ALS Geochemistry laboratory facilities in Bor, Serbia. The samples are crushed and pulverised using method code PREP-31, are fire assayed for Au using method code Au-ICP21, and are analysed for multi-elements using method code ME-MS61 following a four-acid digestion. Overlimits are analysed using an appropriate method. Medgold routinely inserts multi-element geochemical standards, blanks, and field duplicate samples into the drill core sample stream to monitor laboratory performance.

Additional information on Medgold can be found on the Company's website at www.medgoldresources.com and by reviewing the Company's page on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Dan James"

Daniel P. James, President & Director

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking statements

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and include, without limitation, statements about the exploration plans for the Tlamino Project and the disclosure of results therefrom. Often, but not always, these forward looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "estimate", "estimates", "estimated", "potential", "open", "future", "assumed", "projected", "used", "detailed", "has been", "gain", "upgraded", "offset", "limited", "contained", "reflecting", "containing", "remaining", "to be", "periodically", or statements that events, "could" or "should" occur or be achieved and similar expressions, including negative variations.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Such uncertainties and factors include, among others, the exploration plans for the Tlamino Project; when exploration results will be disclosed; changes in general economic conditions and financial markets; the Company or any joint venture partner not having the financial ability to meet its exploration and development goals; risks associated with the results of exploration and development activities, estimation of mineral resources and the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; unanticipated costs and expenses; and such other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's quarterly and annual filings with securities regulators and available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

Forward-looking statements contained herein are based on the assumptions, beliefs, expectations and opinions of management, including but not limited to: that the proposed exploration of the Tlamimo Project will proceed as intended; that results from such exploration will be disclosed when anticipated; that the Company's stated goals and planned exploration and development activities will be achieved; that there will be no material adverse change affecting the Company or its properties; and such other assumptions as set out herein. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

SOURCE Medgold Resources Corp.
The Catalan government is not willing to pay just "any price" to keep the Spanish grand prix.

Minister of enterprise Angels Chacon says Barcelona wants to keep the race beyond 2019, as negotiations with Liberty Media continue.

"The government is wanting to extend the contract, but obviously not at any price," she told EFE news agency.

"F1 cannot be a blank cheque."

(GMM)
Forget Muslims  we want Boris Johnson to attack Jews

When Boris Johnson criticised Denmarks absurd decision to ban the wearing of the burka in a to-deadline article for the Telegraph, he went on to liken women wearing the niqab to letter boxes and bank robbers. This, said many, was Johnson fanning the flames of Islamophobia. Were with Johnson on his view that its wrong to tell a free-born adult woman what she may or may not wear in a public place when she is simply minding her own business. Denmarks move to ban an item of clothing follows burqa bans in France, Austria and Belgium. The problem is that hed ask a constituent visiting him at his MP surgery to to remove her veil  If a female student turned up at school or at a university lecturer looking like a bank robber then ditto: those in authority should be allowed to converse openly with those that they are being asked to instruct.

Reactions are many:

They are absolutely demonising, misogynistic, hurtful comments and they are fanning the flames of Islamophobia. As a result, the thugs who are already snatching the headscarves of Muslim women will feel empowered that someone who is part of the establishment, who has been our foreign secretary, is giving them licence.  Imam Qari Asim, an imam who sits on the governments Anti-Muslim Hatred Working Group, in The Times. Were still waiting for that to happen, which is not lost on a community that still feels vulnerable  My own congregation are increasingly reporting Islamophobic abuse, from having their headscarves removed to facing racist chants.  Finsbury Park imam Mohammed Mahmoud.

Naz Shah  yep, her  wants the Conservative chair, Brandon Lewis, to send Johnson for mandatory equalities training. Shah, who once called for all Jews for be deported from Israel (she later went on a journey and apologised) is Labours shadow equalities minister. She calls Johnsons comments ugly and naked Islamophobia.

And:

Muslim women are having their burkas pulled off by thugs in our streets and Boris Johnsons response is to mock them for looking like letter boxes. Our pound-shop Donald Trump is fanning the flames of Islamophobia to propel his grubby electoral ambitions.  David Lammy MP.

Nothing to do with Jews, then. Right? No. Because on Twitter, Channel 4 News anchor Krishnan Guru-Murthy is introducing Jews:

Why bring the Jews into it? Is the argument that Jews get more protection? Are Jews too powerful? Is it supposed Jewish privilege hes wafting into the debate? Whats Guru-Murtys point? The language around anti-Semitism has become nuanced, vague, deceptive and downright dishonest. Would a criticism of a Jews kippah or a womans sheitel (a wig be worn by very religious married Jewish women) be anti-Semitic? Is it racist to call orthodox Jews living in North London Stamford Hill Cowboys? We live in a time when many anti-Semites dont like to make their hatred too explicit. Youre left looking for the verbal wink. And you get to the point where comparing a woman in a burqa to a letter box is presented as anti-Muslim  an assault on all Muslims and the religion of Islam  and not a lazy joke about an item of clothing worn by a relatively few Muslims.

Over on the BBC, its all about Jews. On Newsnight   In-depth investigation and analysis of the stories behind the days headlines with Evan Davis -we get this:

Always the Jews. They always bring it back to the Jews pic.twitter.com/q3gmYY33wJ  Anorak (@TheAnorak) August 7, 2018

A crass comment about women in burqas and you have to ask a question about Jews? To the knowing, sensitive and caring everything is about those pesky Jews, a group now portrayed as underserving of that ultimate 21st accolade: victimhood.

Anorak

Posted: 7th, August 2018 | In: Key Posts, News, Politicians Comment | TrackBack | Permalink
TEL AVIV - Two members of the military wing of Hamas were killed on Tuesday by Israeli fire near the border of the Gaza Strip in Beit Lahya, the local health ministry said.

An Israeli military spokesman had previously said that a border patrol came under fire and that the shots were fired from a Hamas position. Tension is high at the Gaza-Israel border.

Hamas has identified the casualties as Ahmed Marjan and el-Hafez al-Silwi, both members of the military wing of the organization, the Ezzedin al-Qassam Brigades.

According to an Israeli military spokesman, they opened fire first from their position against Israeli soldiers deployed near the border fence. The fire did not cause victims.

Israeli military authorities are now trying to understand if the incident was provoked by the military wing of Hamas to block ongoing contacts between the organization's political leaders and Egypt to restore calm to the area and ease the Israeli blockade on the Strip.
ROME - Labour and Industry Minister and Deputy Premier Luigi Di Maio said Tuesday that he will launch an extraordinary recruitment process for labour inspectors to crack down on the exploitation of migrant farm workers. "The laws are there but the State is not yet equipped to carry out controls," Di Maio told Radio24 after 16 migrants were killed in two separate road accidents in Puglia in recent days.

"My aim is to have an extraordinary recruitment competition for labour inspectors because more inspectors are needed.

"In some areas like Gioia Tauro and the province of Foggia, the gang-master system should be eradicated company by company.

"You can pass laws so you can put out a press release or you can apply the laws that already exist".

Democratic Party (PD) leader Maurizio Martina said the opposition centre-left group was ready to back the government on this. "Over the last three years we have made important steps forward," Martina said in Foggia.

"The law to combat the gang-master system has made it possible to increase checks in a significant way, but it's not enough.

"It is necessary to increase preventative measures and, if the government is capable of proposing actions that increase the number of labour inspectors, we will support it, no ifs and no buts".
GREENWICH  Before any final approvals are granted, local nonprofits asked First Selectman Peter Tesei to help them with needed projects by sending federal block grant money their way.

Tesei is considering recommendations from the towns Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee on how to distribute $329,405 in federal funds to local groups. After receiving more than $1.4 million in requests, the committee turned down some agencies. On Monday night, a public hearing was held for agencies to make their case to Tesei, who has the power to change the committees recommendations.

Although more money will be available next year, many said their projects are needed immediately, including Community Centers Inc. at First United Methodist Church, which said it cant wait until 2019 to rehabilitate its space.

Others made similar arguments in seeking funds.

The bus is truly central to what we do, Bob DAngelo, CEO of the Greenwich YMCA, who asked Tesei to support $60,000 for a new school bus for its early learning center. We pick up kids from six elementary schools in town. Whats pretty cool about what we do is we take kids that wouldnt probably get to learn to swim and bus them to the main Y. That bus makes numerous trips every day to numerous locations, and its in really, really bad shape.

Debra Mecky, executive director for the Greenwich Historical Society, made a case for $77,000 to make the groups expanded campus fully accessible when it opens on Columbus Day weekend. Mecky called it a once-in-a-lifetime organizational change and said she wants the campus accessible to the entire community.

We want to take care of our community, and we should take care of them, said Bea Crumbine, the towns ambassador at large and a Historical Society trustee. More people do want to come (to the historical society) and some groups are waiting for the work to be done. I know this walkway is critical.

Tesei did not indicate whether he would change any of the committees recommendations, which has happened rarely during his time in office. He is expected to make his decision at the Aug. 23 Board of Selectmen meeting.

If approvals were granted then, town Community Development Administrator Tyler Fairbairn said it would allow for the needed approvals from the Board of Estimate and Taxation in September and the Representative Town Meeting in October.

Mondays hearing was only to consider the allocation of the $329,405. Consideration of requests for the 2019 Community Development Block Grant, which is given out by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, will begin early next year.

The allocations that need Teseis approval are what was left from the 2018 block grant.

Last year, we were able to squirrel away about $246,000 in money that we anticipated not getting, Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee Chairwoman Alexis Voulgaris said. When we heard that the federal administration was cutting back potentially for the block grants, we were very conservative and we set aside contingency funds. It turns out we got more money than we thought we were getting, so we have these contingency funds for projects that are shovel-ready for this year.

Several nonprofits that received the committees recommendation appeared Monday to thank the committee and to ask Tesei to approve the funds.

Anne Bradner, vice president of development for the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich, asked for support for $26,891 for a new heating and air conditioning system and $7,050 for roof repairs to the facility, which serves 1,600 kids per day after school and during the summer, half of whom come from low-income families in town.

Our current HVAC system is outmoded and, in fact, they are no longer going to be making parts for it, Bradner said. We run the risk of having an emergency. The funds will allow us to have significant cost savings once the new system is in place with energy savings. It will help us do what we do better.

kborsuk@greenwichtime.com
TUNIS - The Roman amphitheater 'Cilium' in Kasserine officially reopened with a concert by well-known Lebanese artist Marcel Khalifa, whose art hails the culture of life and peace, after it was restored following years of abandon.

Tunisian Culture Minister Mohamed Zine El Abidine stressed shortly before Khalifa's concert that "the inauguration of this new heritage jewel is an historic moment for the city of Kasserine, which has become over the last few years synonymous of obscurantism and terrorism".

The project Cilium, which cost a total of 400,000 dinars, was made with the support of the regional council of the governorate of Kasserine, in cooperation with the culture ministry, the national heritage institute (Inp) and the Agence de mise en valeur du patrimoine et de promotion culturelle (Amvppc). The minister also announced that a budget of 50,000 dinars, twice the sum usually granted, will be pledged to activities by the Dramatic and Scenic Arts Centre in Kasserine and to hire staff at the Regional musical institute as part of a policy to decentralize culture and efforts to encourage individual and collective art projects in the region to fight against terrorism.

According to some archaeological excavations carried out in 1946, the site ''Ciullium'' in today's Kesserine near Roman cities of the region like Sufetula (Sbeitla), Sufes (Sbiba), Ammaeddara (Hydra), Thala and Thelepte, would date back to the Roman era between the fourth and fifth century AD.

The restored amphitheater, which will now host performances and events, is located in the eastern part of the city and considering it can accommodate 1,000 people at the most, it is the smallest amphitheater in North Africa.
The Hill County Park Board discussed instituting a burn ban during its meeting Monday due to drying vegetation and a prediction of temperatures hotter than 100 degrees later this week.

Board and audience members said the East Fork Fire from last season, which burned more than 20,000 acres in the Bear Paw Mountains including on the south edge of Beaver Creek Park, is on their mind and a burn ban would be a good idea.

Hill County Commission Chair Mark Peterson said he doesnt think a ban is necessary.

Peterson said most people are behaving themselves about not lighting campfires, and most fires in the county are starting from trucks, combines and and other farm equipment causing sparks, such as by hitting rocks.

The public has been careful with campfires in dry weather, he said.

The public knows better.

Many on the park board disagreed and said something needs to be done.

Board member Tony Reum said the cheat grass in some areas is bone dry.

One little spark and itll explode, Reum added.

The board and audience discussed the fact that Blaine County instituted a burn ban July 18.

Peterson said another question is the level of the ban.

I dont know that were interested in going beyond Stage 1, Peterson said, if we do go to Stage 1.

Stage 2 is very restrictive, he said.

Policing a countywide ban puts a huge load on officers, Peterson said.

Stage 1 restrictions ban fires unless they are in a site with specific exemptions, such as in fire pits. It also bans smoking, unless within an enclosed vehicle, building, developed recreation site, or area three feet in diameter cleared of all flammable materials, a Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks web page says.

Under Stage 2, all fires are banned, as is smoking as under Stage 1 restrictions; operating motorized vehicles off designated roads and trails; using explosives, welding or using an acetylene torch or other torch with open flame, and operating any internal combustion engine from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Park Board Chair Steve Mariani suggested having Beaver Creek Park Superintendent Chad Edgar monitor the situation and institute a burn ban on the park if he deems it necessary.

Edgar said he could put up a sign but would have no teeth to enforce it without the commissioners implementing a ban.

If we do it, its because theres a dangerous situation out there, a board member said.

Even if the ticket doesnt hold up in court, its a great deterrent. If we can prevent something, lets do it, another added.

Peterson said the weekly regional fire restriction call with state agencies today, which is held Tuesdays, could allow the discussion of the situation on the park.

He said the commission could post an agenda to vote on fire restrictions at its weekly business meeting Thursday.

One of the best Julys Ive ever had

Edgar said July in the park started off extremely busy. Fourth of July weekend went extremely well. Usage was really heavy in July. It was one of the best Julys Ive ever had.

Park attendance has tapered off to a moderate pace in the last three weeks, he said.

He added that picnic tables had been refurbished with new planks and repainted, lawns had been mowed, campsites cleaned, bushes hedged, cattle stock tanks cleaned, brush cleared and all haying complete, which he said was slightly less than average this year. He said he also had torn down the old shooting range and some old fence posts that were an eyesore.

Looks a lot nicer, Edgar said.

Keep cattle out of south pasture

Audience member Dave Molitor, who owns land adjacent to the south end of the park, asked if fence destroyed by the East Fork Fire will be repaired in time for cattle to go on the park during grazing season.

The park board leases grazing on the park from the day after Labor Day to Jan. 1.

Molitor said he has heard that Justin Boyce, who contracted with the park board to repair the fence, may not be able to complete it in time.

Im pleading with you, Molitor said, please dont turn any cattle out on that south pasture until we get the fence put in.

He said he has been buying and installing fencing himself, and others also are donating supplies, but the work has to be complete before cattle are put on the park.

He said he already is having problems because cattle have gotten onto the park and have made it onto his  and other ranchers  land because the fence is not complete.

That causes even more problems for him, Molitor said, because he is on a Natural Resource and Conservation Service program to not graze the land until November, to allow grass to recover from last years East Fork Fire, and he is trying to avoid a fine.

Board members agreed.

Dave  for him to lose his contract, that would just be wrong, one said.

Edgar said Boyce knows the deadline and told him he would be finished on time.

Edgar also said he is asking Steve Boyce to cut down trees along the fence line so they dont fall and damage the fence.

He added that Havre Public Schools Education Foundation made a $500 donation to use toward fire recovery, which might be able to pay for removing the trees along the fence.

Id like to thank them for that, Edgar said.

Grazing allotments

The board approved recommendations from its grazing committee to keep grazing allotments for this season at a three-year average of previous allotments.

The board agreed with the committee that conditions were not good enough this year to increase allotments, as some grazers had requested.

The board also agreed that the committee will look at updating grazing and haying policies at its meeting in December.

Audience member Lowell Alcock said one policy that needs a written rule is that haying on park lands is for personal use only and the hay is not to be sold.

Whether its going to them or market is a big difference, Alcock said.

Several board members said that people who hay on the park typically wont sell it.

It has been common practice, Hill County Commissioner and Park Board member Diane McLean said.

Another board member added that its gotta be written down.

If a persons going to profit from it, it should be the park, Alcock said.

The board agreed that after the Grazing Committee discusses the issue, the boards Policies and Procedures Committee will address it, followed by the Rules and Regulations Committee.

Monitoring water quality

Lou Hagener, who has been spearheading setting up environmental monitoring at the park, reported on water quality monitoring progress.

Hagener met with representatives of Montanas Department of Environmental Quality and Montana State Universitys Extension Service to talk about setting up protocols, he said.

They discussed Beaver Creek water quality data, including Montana Environmental Training Center Director Barbara Coffmans list of data from studies already done.

Hagener said the meeting also reviewed the water quality datas impact on the park, the sampling areas, algal blooms, and things that need to be measured, such as heavy metals like nitrate, potassium and chloroform.

Commissioner Mark Peterson said the continuity of the boards water quality monitoring project was important.

We dont all live forever, he said, so we need to have it set up so people know how to do it.

 We want to make sure that the data we take today is comparable to the data well take 40 years from now.

Hagener agreed that testing methodology changes over time and he suggested that adhering to the departments scientific protocols was the best answer to Petersons concerns.

Sampling has to meet a certain standard, Hagener said. For example, E. coli has to be processed within six hours of inspection.

Hagener added that some of the baseline sampling should be done in winter, when the water is less affected by weather.

Peterson said he wanted the public to understand that as much as the park board plans ahead, much of the data will not be up to future standards.

Algal blooms

Board members questioned Hagener about recent algal blooms in the park.

The Montana Department of Health and Human Services web page reports that toxic algal blooms are a seasonal occurrence in the state.

A (harmful algal bloom) can cause harm by producing toxins that can poison humans, fish, seabirds, aquatic animals, livestock, wildlife and household pets (such as dogs) that are near the water, consume the water or swim in the water, the page said.

Algal blooms have been reported, last year at Beaver Creek Reservoir on the park and this year on Rocky Boys Indian Reservation as well as in Beaver Creek Reservoir.

Hagener said hot and stagnant water could have caused the blooms. Another possible cause is a chemical imbalance, like potassium, in the water, but the exact cause of algal blooms is not known.

Diane McLean said that algal blooms are living organisms and, as such, are constantly in flux.

The recent bloom almost immediately disappeared, Hagener said.

Not all blooms are toxic, he said, and some algae are even good.

The next park board meeting will be held Sept. 10.
The veterans center at Rocky Boys Indian Reservation has successfully sought some major funding, with the latest award presented during its annual powwow.

During the Rocky Boys 54th Annual Celebration Saturday, Wells Fargo Bank awarded the Rocky Boy Veterans Center with a grant of $15,000.

The center had applied for the grant last month.

The center has also received a grant for $2,500 from the Disabled Veterans National Foundation; a $10,000 grant from the Craig Newmark Philanthropies, and a $120,000 grant from the Kendeda Fund, said U.S. Army veteran Chauncey Parker, president of the Rocky Boy Veterans Center.

Our mission is to assure veterans are being taken care of, Parker said.

The Rocky Boy Veterans Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit which opened in June 2015, and since then has worked to build a foundation for a good quality of life for veterans, Parker said. He added that the center touches lives and works with veterans to provide transportation, job training, financial training and direct assistance to veterans for housing, as well as aiding them in applying for the VA.

Parker said that even though the veterans have served their country, it is not mandated that they will receive VA benefits, adding that many people, when they come out of the service, do not know how to get started.

According to the Rocky Boy Veterans Center website, the center operates with two staff members and three volunteers out of a tribally owned building. The center serves more than 175 tribal-enrolled veterans on the reservation, 121 throughout the communities across the state and 32 tribal-enrolled members who are serving in the military.

Parker said that in addition to serving veterans on Rocky Boy the center also serves non tribal veterans out of Great Falls and Havre.

The Rocky Boy Veterans Center is a one-stop-shop for veterans seeking assistance ranging from VA enrollment and benefits, to housing, to business and employment assistance, the centers website states.

Parker said the grants will help ensure veterans are being taken care of and the continuation of the services that they provide such as transportation, VA assistance, housing and job training.
Judge denies Schalow's double jeopardy motion

Leonard Schalow, with his attorney Dennis Maxwell, faces trial in November on 20 assault and child abuse charges.

The long and convoluted prosecution of Leonard Paul Schalow has at least one more chapter after a Superior Court judge delayed what would have been his third trial on assault charges.



Prosecutors say the 50-year-old Schalow deserves a long prison sentence for what they describe as months of severe beatings and psychological torture of his wife, Erin Henry Schalow, in the presence of their son. The beatings were so severe that prosecutors obtained an indictment for attempted first degree-murder.

Schalow was convicted on the attempted murder charge in November 2015 and sentenced to 17 years in prison. But that trial came after the state voluntarily dropped its first attempt to prosecute Schalow, when a judge pointed out that the indictment was defective. As a result, Schalows defense attorneys won an appeal on the grounds that his conviction violated double jeopardy protections under the Fifth Amendment.

Prosecutors and Schalows team of public defenders  he had three lawyers on Monday in Superior Court  were back in court arguing that the latest charges also are invalid on double jeopardy grounds and for other reasons. After a hearing on Schalows motion to dismiss the 20 felony counts he now faces, Superior Court Judge W. Robert Bell ordered the trial continued. Too many questions remain, including whether the defense had received all the pretrial evidence it sought.

Bell ruled Tuesday morning against the Schalows motion to throw out the charges on double jeopardy grounds, clearing the way for a third trial later this year.

Naturally, we are pleased with this latest ruling and will proceed to hold this defendant responsible for his actions, District Attorney Greg Newman said in a news release. The victim in the case continues to be very cooperative with my office, so I know she is looking forward to a time where she can put this matter behind her.

After the attempted murder charge was thrown out on appeal, Newman filed 14 felony child abuse and six assault charges against Schalow, some the same as charges originally brought in 2014.

In a motion he filed last month, defense attorney Dennis Maxwell pointed out that the state had filed assault charges, all with the identical language and dates of offense as the warrants originally issued in February 2014.

Now the state is trying again to undermine the fundamental protection against double jeopardy in the Constitution, Maxwell told Judge Bell. The law prohibits them, if they lose on a higher offense, from coming back and trying him on a lesser offense until they get a conviction This is a third prosecution for a crime hes already been tried for twice.

Mundy argued that the charges are new, not the same ones Schalow faced four years ago.

Maxwell also argues that his client is the target of a vindictive prosecution by Newman.

The timeline of events  shows clearly that the state indicted Mr. Schalow for the current charges because he was successful in his appeal of the attempted murder conviction, he said.

The two sides reached an impasse on the issue of discovery. The defense argued that it had received no police reports, witness statements or other material when it filed motions for evidence the state would use in the case.

The defense has everything that we have, Newman responded. These were the same reports, he acknowledged, that the state used in two previous trials.

Maxwell pounded on the opening.

If its going to be the exact same facts with the exact same discovery were back to double jeopardy, he said.

Newman said the public defenders should have known to pull the discovery material from the earlier trials  were talking about the same people n the same office.

Maxwell and Stang argued that if this is a new case, there should have been new investigative reports, witness statements and so on.

Does the state have new evidence to share? Judge Bell asked.

Really, little to none, Newman responded. Nothing different than what weve already provided in the previous cases.

But these are new cases, Bell said.

Minutes later, the judge ordered the three-month postponement, giving Schalows defense attorneys time to review pre-trial material, even if thats the same material from four years ago.

I dont see how you can proceed without defense seeing discovery, he said.
Buncombe officials indicted in massive kickback scheme

Former Buncombe County Manager Wanda Greene and two assistant county managers dined on expensive meals and wine and took all-expense paid pleasure trips to Key West, Boston, Marthas Vineyard, Napa Valley, and the Grand Canyon and cities abroad in kickback scheme with a county contractor, the U.S. Attorneys office announced Tuesday.



A federal grand jury in Asheville returned a criminal bill of indictment on Tuesday Greene, 67, Jon Eugene Creighton, 66, and Amanda Louise "Mandy" Stone, 59,charging them with wire fraud and aiding and abetting; conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States; receipt of bribes and kickbacks and aiding and abetting; and federal program fraud and aiding and abetting, U.S. Attorney Andrew Murray announced.

The contractor, who had received more than $15 million in contracts with Buncombe County for consulting and engineering services, arranged the trips, which included the U.S. cities plus Vienna, Budapest, Cartagena and Vancouver. At one point in 2015, Greene made a list of specific places and dates she wanted to travel and instructed Creighton to pass the list to the engineer, which Creighton did, prosecutors said.

Agent needs to know we love and want pool and dinner on island . . . . We should think Gulf Coast or Bahamas for January trip and celebrate Mandys birthday at a new place, Greene wrote in a June 6, 2016, text message to Creighton and Stone about future trips to be paid by the contractor.

Rooting out public corruption at all levels of government is one of my Offices most critical responsibilities, Murray said. I want to thank the FBI, IRS-Criminal Investigation Division, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation for their incredible diligence and commitment to conducting a thorough and objective investigation, which has led to todays indictment.

According to allegations contained in the 32-count criminal bill of indictment:

Greene was appointed as County Manager for Buncombe County in 1997, and remained in that position until her retirement in June 2017. As County Manager, Greene had the authority to approve the awarding of certain contracts between the County and private contractors, including contracts for engineering and consulting services.

Creighton began working for Buncombe County in March 1982. From 1985 until he retired in December 2017, Creighton was the director of the countys Department of Planning and Development. As part of his duties, Creighton negotiated contracts between the County and private contractors, and was responsible for signing such contracts on behalf of the County. From 1997 until his retirement, Creighton also had a dual appointment as assistant county manager.

Stone began working for Buncombe County in the 1980s. In 1994, she became the Assistant Director of Countys Department of Social Services, and later became Departments Director in 2001. Beginning 2005, Stone also had a dual appointment, along with Creighton, as assistant county manager. She held both positions until she became County Manager upon Greenes retirement. Stone retired from the county in June 2018.

An unnamed individual, identified in the indictment as the Contractor, was a licensed professional engineer. From the mid-1980s through 2018, the Contractor was the agent and contractor for three businesses (Company A until 2014, Company B during 2014 through 2016, and his own company, Company C, from 2014 through 2018). During the relevant time period, the Contractor obtained more than $15 million in contracts with Buncombe County for consulting and engineering services.

The kickback and bribery scheme the defendants engaged in involved, among other things, multiple, all-expense paid trips, meals, tickets to sporting events and spa treatments paid for by the Contractor. The defendants solicited and accepted these gifts, payments, and other things of value from the Contractor, in exchange for awarding County contracts to the Contractor and the businesses he was affiliated with at the time.

Prior to 2014, Greene, Creighton, Stone, and other County personnel, went on trips that were in some way connected to legitimate County business. During these trips, the Contractor provided them with such things of value as expensive meals, wine, and other excursions. By 2014, Greene, Creighton, and Stone began to solicit and accept trips, valuable gifts, and other things of value from the Contractor that were entirely unrelated to any legitimate County business. The all- expense paid pleasure trips were to destinations within the U.S. such as Key West, Boston, Marthas Vineyard, Napa Valley, and the Grand Canyon, and to international cities, including Vienna, Budapest, Cartagena, and Vancouver. At some time in 2015, Greene prepared a written list of specific places and dates she wanted to travel, and instructed Creighton to pass the list to the Contractor, which Creighton did. On June 6, 2016, during a text message exchange with Creighton and Stone about future trips to be paid by the Contractor, Greene wrote: Agent needs to know we love and want pool and dinner on island . . . . We should think Gulf Coast or Bahamas for January trip and celebrate Mandys birthday at a new place.

On some occasions, the defendants charged the County directly for airfare for trips that coincided with official meetings happening in the vicinity. However, the majority of the travel arrangements were made using the Contractors credit card information, which the defendants had access to, or, in Creightons case, using the Contractors actual credit card. During these trips, the Contractor would generally charge the additional expenses to his credit cards when he accompanied the County employees. For the trips during which the Contractor did not accompany the County employees, the defendants used a copy of the Contractors credit card to pay for any travel expenses they incurred.

At other times, in order to earn extra rewards points, Creighton used his own credit card to pay for lodging and other expenses, for which he was later reimbursed by the Contractor. As another way to help Creighton earn more rewards points, during some of the trips, the Contractor stayed at separate hotels, paid for the rooms using Creightons credit card, and then reimbursed Creighton for those charges. In order for the Contractor and Creighton to be able to use each others credit cards, Greene and Creighton caused personnel in the Countys Human Resources Department to create false official Buncombe County employee identification cards, one with the Contractors photograph but with Creightons name and title, and the other with Creightons photograph but with the Contractors name and a false title as a County employee.

In addition to receiving these all-expense paid vacations from the Contractor, the defendants also took advantage of these trips to defraud the County in at least two other ways: First, the defendants did not use annual leave for these trips, but rather falsely claimed that they traveled on official County business, and claimed to have worked for the duration of the trip. This enabled them to preserve their hours of annual leave, which they later sold to the County, thereby receiving monetary payments to which they were not legally entitled.

Specifically, at various times between 2011 and 2017, the County paid Greene more than $360,000 for approximately a total of 3,216 hours of her unused leave, some of which was related to these trips. Similarly, Stone received more than $130,000 from the County for unused leave between 2007 and her retirement in 2018, and Creighton received more than $89,000 for unused leave between 2011 and his retirement in 2017. A portion of their unused hours for which they were paid was related to these trips.

The second way in which the defendants used their trips to defraud the County was by submitting reimbursement requests for the cost of meals and incidental expenses they supposedly incurred during their travel, even though their meals and expenses were actually being paid for by the Contractor.

Furthermore, Buncombe County often unwittingly funded the briberies and kickbacks of its own officials. The Contractor kept detailed internal records of the costs of the tickets, lodging, meals, and other benefits that he provided to the defendants on each trip. The Contractor then tied these expenses to the various projects for which he had obtained contracts with the County on behalf of Companies A, B, and C. The Contractor often sent invoices to, and was reimbursed by, the County, in amounts approximate of those travel expenses, claiming that the invoices were for the completion of specific portions of the relevant contract, instead of the improper expenditures.

Thus, by paying these invoices, which often required Creightons approval, the County was essentially reimbursing the Contractor for the cost of the kickbacks to its County officials.

In addition to the criminal charges, the indictment contains a notice of forfeiture and probable cause, seeking a forfeiture money judgment against the defendants in the amount of at least $400,000, which is the amount constituting the proceeds of the violations alleged in the indictment.

Greene, Creighton, and Stone have been ordered to appear on a summons. Each wire fraud and aiding and abetting charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The conspiracy charge carries a maximum prison term of five years and a $250,000 fine. The receipt of bribes and kickbacks and aiding and abetting charge and the federal program fraud charge each carry a maximum prison term of 10 years and a $250,000 fine.

A separate superseding indictment also charges Greene with six counts of tax fraud, in addition to the pending wire fraud, federal program fraud, and money laundering charges filed against her on June 5, 2018, in connection with a $2.3 million scheme involving the purchase of whole life insurance policies for herself and other county employees using misappropriated Buncombe County funds.

The superseding indictment alleges that Greene filed with the IRS false federal tax returns for years 2012 through 2017. Specifically, the indictment alleges that, for each corresponding year, Greene filed false Individual Income Tax Returns, Forms 1040, which misstated her taxable income, and failed to report to the IRS additional income she received through her embezzlement and whole life insurance policies schemes.

Also pending, are the federal charges filed against Greene in April for misusing government credit cards to make approximately $200,000 worth of improper purchases.

Assistant United States Attorney Richard Edwards of the U.S. Attorneys Office in Asheville is in charge of the prosecution.
CAGLIARI - Cagliari finance police apprehended a group of 12 migrants some 12 miles off the island of Toro, south-west of Sardinia, as they were trying to reach the island. A tax police helicopter yesterday afternoon sighted the boat on which the migrants were travelling. Coast guards reached the vessel and transferred the migrants aboard, seizing their boat.

The migrants, all men of Algerian nationality, were identified and taken to the hosting center of Monastir, near Cagliari.

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Three out of four emergency department (ED) staff in an Irish hospital met the criteria for burnout, according to a study.

Staff in Irish hospitals have been working in increasingly chaotic conditions over the past few years, as the number of trolleys in EDs all over the country has continued to soar year on year.

The new research found that 70pc of doctors and 78pc of nurses met the benchmark for the workplace exhaustion condition in the ED at Cork University Hospital, in one of the first studies of its kind in Ireland.

Eight out 10 radiographers, along with 100pc of care assistants, 67pc of porters and 63pc of administrators also met the bar for the stress-related condition.

The average for all staff was 75pc in the southern hospital.

The study said symptoms of burnout were variable and included "emotional exhaustion, physical exhaustion and disengagement".

The study, published in the Irish Journal of Medical Science, also revealed that burnout rates were significantly associated with a history of depression.

Stress

The research found that the nurses in the Cork study had a "dramatically higher" burnout rate, nearly three times the international rate of 26pc, while the rate for physicians was similar to the international rate of 65pc.

The paper, headed up by Peter Chernoff, said the findings built on research across the globe which show the prevalence of burnout is high in "high-stress environments like emergency departments".

The authors said: "Obstacles such as rising healthcare costs and increasingly excessive demands on the frontline workforce contribute to the environment of burnout in all hospital staff."

Some 97 ED staff in Cork University Hospital were gauged for the workplace stress condition using the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, which is a list of questions designed to diagnose burnout.

"An accessible reliable and valid measure of burnout may help individuals in the emergency department identify emotional exhaustion and disengagement," the authors wrote.

They discovered that there was a trend of increased burnout in the hospital with the number of years worked in the department, while males were more likely to have burnout than their female counterparts - although these trends were not found to be significant.

The study said that burnout, described as a "state of emotional depletion developed in the workplace", was found to be common in the hospital.

Researchers added that the effects of burnout can have far-reaching implications.

The authors noted that other studies found that burnout among doctors had been found to increase a range of mental and physical health disorders, for example anxiety, fatigue and hypertension, and even result in suicide.
An Irish couple on holiday in Bali have described their "severe terror" as two earthquakes hit the neighbouring island of Lombok.

Rebecca McConnell (26), who lives in Dublin, has been in Bali with her partner for more than three weeks, taking a break from her job to travel in Asia.

In that time there have been two large earthquakes in Indonesia.

At least 98 people were killed and more than 200 seriously injured in the 6.9-magnitude quake that rocked Lombok, east of Bali, on Sunday evening.

However, the death toll is expected to rise, with rescuers using diggers and heavy machinery to clear debris and search for survivors.

The previous quake, of 6.4 magnitude, happened a week before and claimed 14 lives.

Expand Close Rescue teams search for victims in the rubble caused by an earthquake in North Lombok, Indonesia / Facebook

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Whatsapp Rescue teams search for victims in the rubble caused by an earthquake in North Lombok, Indonesia

Aftermath

Footage filmed by Ms McConnell shows the aftermath, with former structures in piles of rubble on the street, fallen trees and damaged buildings and the debris being cleared away.

"I didn't really know about the first earthquake as I was on the west coast at the time, far from where it hit," she said.

"However, yesterday evening I was on the top of a bunk bed in a hostel in Kuta, south Bali.

"I felt the bed shake slightly at first, then increasing in strength and it hit me that it was an earthquake.

"Severe terror entered my body and for a few seconds I was frozen, trying to remember what to do in this type of emergency.

"I then followed the locals and headed outside the building.

"I know all earthquake rout- ines tell you to stay inside and get under the table, but I figured the structure of this building didn't look stable.

"The tremor lasted for around 20 seconds, then there was an aftershock around an hour or so later, which lasted for about five seconds."

Ms McConnell and her partner were on "high alert" several hours afterwards as the area they were in was under a tsunami warning.

"Being from Ireland, this was my first experience of a natural disaster and it was terrifying," she said.

"I've never felt fear like that. I made sure to message home to let my parents know I was OK, as during the previous earthquake we had no signal and they were worried sick."

Ms McConnell said that while travelling from Kuta to Ubud in the centre, she encountered many collapsed buildings and clean-ups.

She said she was praying for the people of Lombok.

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) said it expected the death toll to rise once the rubble of more than 13,000 houses is cleared away.

The military said it would send a ship with medical aid, supplies and logistics support.

In 2004, the Indian Ocean tsunami killed 226,000 people in 13 countries, including more than 120,000 in Indonesia.

Scramble

Officials said more than 2,000 people had been evacuated from the three Gili islands off the north-west coast of Lombok, where fears of another tsunami spread.

Michelle Thompson, an American holidaying on one of the Gilis, described a scramble for boats leaving for the main island, leaving her husband hurt.

"People were throwing suitcases on board. I had to struggle to get my husband on, because he got trampled and was bleeding," she said.
Nearly one in six people doubt they will ever own their own home.

A survey of 5,000 people found nine percent agreed that owning a home was something they were unlikely to achieve.

A further seven per cent of respondents "somewhat agreed" they may struggle to buy a place of their own.

Recent data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) showed house prices have been increasing by 12.4pc a year.

In December, research from estate agents Savills said 19pc of the population were renting, the highest proportion since records began.

Meanwhile, the price of renting has soared, especially in the capital.

In May, property website Daft.ie reported the average rent in Dublin city centre was 1,923 a month.

In Cork, the figure was 1,210, while Galway rents averaged 1,131.

Conor Faughnan, consumer affairs director with the AA, whose home insurance branch carried out the house-buying survey, said that even among those under 35 there was a consensus that home ownership is an important milestone.

Delay

"In previous decades, those app- roaching their mid-30s would have been on the verge of entering the property market," Mr Faughnan said.

"But a lack of supply and rising costs is forcing this cohort to question if they will ever own a home, or at the very least delay purchasing for several more years."

The study also found a significant generational gap in attitudes towards home ownership.

Of those respondents under 35, 18pc agreed they were unlikely to ever be in a position to buy property, with 15.5pc partially agreeing with this claim.

Central Bank governor Philip Lane said in June he was confident house prices will "cool off".

The AA survey comes after research from Aviva, published last month, found similar concerns about "forever renters".

It found one in four of those who want to own their home believe they will never be able to.

Not being able to afford to save for a deposit was cited as the main reason home ownership is unattainable.
Open Arms assigned Spanish port of Algesiras Boat rescued 87 migrants last Thursday off Libya

(ANSAmed) - ROME, AUGUST 7 - The Spanish NGO migrant-rescue ship Open Arms on Tuesday said via Twitter that it has been assigned the port of Algesiras, in Spain, to offload 87 people it rescued last Thursday off Libya.



The NGO tweeted: ''Assigned port: Algesiras - 590 nautical miles from our location, three additional days of crossing hoping there will be sufficient food for everybody. The 87 rescued people will need to wait for over a week to reach a safe port''.(ANSAmed).




Mideast: Mahmoud Abbas to meet King Abdallah Wednesday PNA, truce in Gaza 'prelude' for Trump's 'deal of the century'

(ANSAmed) - TEL AVIV, AUGUST 7 - PNA President Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) on Wednesday is scheduled to travel to Amman for talks with King Abdallah during which he will stress Palestinian opposition to the so-called 'deal of the century' on regional policy on which the Trump administration is working, the secretary general of the PLO's executive committee, Saeb Erekat, told Palestinian news agency Wafa.



Erekat said that, according to the Palestinian National Authority, ongoing contacts for a truce in Gaza and the future realization of humanitarian projects for the Gaza Strip are in reality a ''prelude'' of the first phase of the 'deal of the century'.



Such accord, warned Erekat, means to ''continue'' the political separation between Gaza on one side and the West Bank on the other. He therefore said that it is irreconcilable with the two-State solution sponsored by the Palestinians, in his opinion. As a consequence, he concluded, the PNA expects Hamas to end political divisions and not to acknowledge moves that are part of the 'deal of the century' to the detriment of the Palestinian cause. (ANSAmed).




Hagerstown moving forward with indoor sports facility

City council approved moving forward with Municipal Stadium plans, but not until after having words with Corderman.
Businessman Rajan Nanda passed away on Sunday evening and his entire family, Nandas, Bachchans and Kapoors, came together to bid him final goodbye. Amitabh Bachchan returned to India from Bulgaria, where he was currently based for the ongoing shoot of his new film Brahmastra, to be by the side of his daughter Shweta Bachchans grieving family in Delhi.

Shweta is married to Nikhil Nanda, Rajans son. Amitabh has now thanked his many fans for their concern and messages at the turn of events. Taking to Twitter, he wrote: .. the messages of condolences are greatly and humbly acknowledged .. they speak of your affection and concern .. they convey the spirit and love of the Ef .. thank you.

T 2891 -

.. the messages of condolences are greatly and humbly acknowledged .. they speak of your affection and concern .. they convey the spirit and love of the Ef ..



thank you ..



  Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) August 6, 2018

The Bachchan family also issued an advertisement in newspapers, paying their last respects to Nanda.

Earlier, after hearing the news, Amitabh had penned a philosophical post on his blog, saying that the sooner one accepts an untoward incident, the happier one is. He wrote, Yes, the personal tragedy is now in discloser and transmitted but it had a lead a lead of distress and anxiety and apprehension from a time of some immediate length the obvious nested facts were not pressed into the print of this page, but there were hidden hints of them in it. My hidden heart can bleed within unseen but it takes not away the pain of its emission, he wrote.

Abhishek Bachchan leaves after attending the funeral of Escorts Group, chairman and managing director Rajan Nanda at Lodhi Road cremation in New Delhi on Aug 6, 2018. Rajan Nanda, the father-in-law of Amitabh Bachchan's daughter Shweta Nanda. (IANS)

While still in Bulgaria, he had tweeted, My relative Mr Rajan Nanda, Nikhils father and father-in-law of Shweta, just passed away. Leaving for India.

It may be recalled that Bachchans and Nandas share another common link--the Kapoor Khandan of Bollywood. Late Rajan Nandas wife, Ritu, is the eldest daughter of the late Raj Kapoor. A couple of years back, she has penned a biography of her legendary father. Nanda leaves behind his wife Ritu, son Nikhil, daughter Natasha, daughter-in-law Shweta, grandchildren Navya Naveli and Agastya.

Follow @htshowbiz for more
While you were toughing it out at work, Bollywood stars were sweating it out in gyms, killing time at airports and posing for the paparazzi outside restaurants. On Monday, stars such as Kareena Kapoor Khan and Malaika Arora were spotted outside a gym, Priyanka Chopra and Salman Khan were spotted at airports (thankfully not the same one; their time did overlap in Delhi, however) and Disha Patani was spotted out about town.

Kareena was wearing track pants and a T-shirt as she stepped out of her car outside her gym. She gave a quick glace towards the present paparazzi and continued about her day. Malaika, meanwhile, didnt so much as lift her head as she hustled towards her car, wearing a green jacket and dark glasses.

Malaika Arora and Kareena Kapoor Khan sweat it out at the gym. (Viral Bhayani)

Disha was spotted in Mumbai a day after having lunch with rumoured boyfriend Tiger Shroffs sister. She was wearing a white T-shirt and a red cap pulled over her face. Dishas Bharat co-star Salman Khan was spotted at a private terminal at the Mumbai airport. The actor was had arrived from Delhi ,where he was promoting Loveratri, the latest film by his production house, starring his brother-in-law, Aayush Sharma. Behind Salman, as always, was his bodyguard, Shera.

A majorly uncomfortable situation was avoided at both the Delhi and Mumbai airports because Priyanka Chopra too was in both cities yesterday. She was also spotted arriving from Delhi at the private terminal in Mumbai.

Priyanka Chopra arrives at the Mumbai private terminal.

Priyanka and Salman were involved in a misunderstanding when she quit Bharat 10 days before she was scheduled to shoot for the film. Salman spoke about her decision at the Loveratri launch. I am really happy for her. Had we known that she has signed such a big film in Hollywood and known it well in advance, we would not have stopped her from leaving our film. She told us at the very last moment, just 10 days before shoot. My shooting had already begun but we got to know she wants to leave the film just 10 days before shoot, he said. Priyanka has since signed Cowboy Ninja Viking opposite Chris Pratt and Salman has had her replaced in Bharat with frequent co-star Katrina Kaif.

You can check out pictures here.

Rani Mukerji and Dia Mirza (with husband Sahil Sangha) at the airport. (Viral Bhayani)

Disha Patani and Kangana Ranaut spotted in Mumbai. (Viral Bhayani)

Follow @htshowbiz for more
Donning heavy gold ornaments, including 25 chains  each not less than 500gm  58-year-old Golden Baba arrived in Ghaziabad on Monday, in his cavalcade comprising 21 luxury cars, for the final leg of the 200km Kanwar Yatra.

While resting at a resort on Delhi-Meerut Road on Monday, Sudhir Makkar alias Golden Baba  known for participating in Kanwar Yatra wearing heavy gold ornaments  said he will embark on more yatras in the future if his health permits.

As against 14.5kg last year, he is wearing 20kg of gold during this years yatra.

The gold has increased, by the grace of god. If the almighty permits and my health allows, I will continue my yatras. I have a severe stomach infection, which has deteriorated in the past three years. The infection interferes with the rites to be followed during Kanwar Yatra. I visited the best hospitals, even in Mumbai, but found no relief, Makkar said.

Last year, he had announced that 2018s Kanwar Yatra would be his last. For his silver jubilee yatra, he said he spent nearly Rs 1.25 crore in hiring cars, Delhis best caterer and waterproof tents, along with doctors and an ambulance.

With the passage of time, my expenditure on the yatra increased every year. But I still remember my first yatra; it cost me just Rs 250. I still want to perform the yatra that way but it is difficult to return to those times. I remember sleeping in tents and eating food offered to devotees, he added.

Watch: Golden Baba starts his silver jubilee Kanwar Yatra

Apart from gold chains, Makkar possesses 21 lockets (of deities), armlets and a Rolex watch that weighs half a kg and is valued around Rs 27 lakh.

Makkar also owns a BMW, three Fortuners, two Audis and two Innovas, which are part of his cavalcade. On several occasions, he has travelled in rented Hummers, Jaguars and Land Rovers during the yatra.

My love for gold and cars will not die. I will hand over the gold to my favourite disciple when I leave the world, he said.

Before taking up spiritualism, Makkar ran a successful cloth and property business at the Gandhi Nagar market in Delhi. He now owns a luxurious flat in a high-rise in Indirapuram, Ghaziabad.

Makkar, however, was not born with a golden spoon. He attended a gurukul at the age of six and went to Haridwar in search of a livelihood. He even sold rosary beads and cloth on pavements.

Later, by the grace of Lord Shiva, my business flourished. I sold jeans, shirts and jackets; even my property business flourished, he said.

On his yatras, Makkar travels with a team of bouncers and security officers.

Also known as Shri Mahant Ji Golden Puri Babaji, Makkars disciples estimate he owns property worth over 150 crore.
The Uttarakhand high court on Tuesday ordered an inquiry by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the death of 30-year-old Aanchal Pandhi, who was found dead under suspicious circumstances on Valentines Day in her apartment in Dehradun in 2017.

Farrukh Khan, counsel of the petitioner Anil Kohli, father of the deceased, said the order was issued by Single Bench of Lok Pal Singh.

The bench was responding to the petition of Anil Kohli who alleged that the case was being botched up by the investigating agencies by converting the murder case into a case of abetment to suicide, as the accused Rahul Pandhi, husband of Aanchal, was an influential person. Khan said Kohli has alleged that his daughter was murdered by her husband.

Khan said after Anchal died on February 14, 2017, his father registered a complaint with Rajpur police station in Dehradun under section 302 of Indian Penal Code (IPC) against Rahul and three other persons.

But in June last year, the police filed a charge sheet in the lower court in Dehrdun, in which Rahul was made an accused in abetment to suicide under Indian Penal Code section 306, he said.

After we argued in the court that the matter was being botched up as Rahul was an influential person, the court conceded to our demand. We also produced Rahuls photographs with some prominent politicians in the state before the court, Khan said.
A nine-year-old student of a private school in east Delhi was allegedly molested by three senior students on the school bus, thrice between July 27 and August 1 this year.

Police said the boy in his statement alleged that he had informed a woman teacher, who was in charge of the students travelling on that school bus, about the bad touch but she ignored his complaint.

The FIR, which was lodged on the childs statement, stated that the teacher allegedly dismissed his complaint by saying, he was a cute boy so he may been have teased.

The boys family alleged that the teacher did not ask the child for details of the incident.

A case under sections 10 (punishment for aggravated sexual assault) and 21 (punishment for failure to report or record a case) of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was registered.

We are probing the case. Further action will be taken once we complete our probe, deputy commissioner of police Meghna Yadav said.

The three students were rusticated and a show cause notice was issued to the teacher, a day after the matter was brought to the school administrations notice. We are cooperating the police in their probe, the chairman of the school said.

The boys are students of Class 7, 8 and 10. The victim is a student of Class 4. The case was registered on August 6.

The boys family said they were unaware of the crime until August 1, when he returned home from school and was crying uncontrollably. When I asked him why he was crying, he locked himself in his room, saying he will talk only to our mother. I called my mother and she rushed home, the boys elder sister said.

The mother said the boy looked terrified and was holding a knife in his hand. My son said he would commit suicide if we forced him to go to school. I consoled him after which he broke down and told us what had happened, the woman said.

The sister alleged that her brother was molested by one of the three students when he boarded the bus on July 27.

There were 16 students besides the teacher and bus staff on the bus. The three boys were seated in the rear. They called my brother and molested him. The other two boys did the same on July 30 and August 1, she said.

She alleged that her brother informed the teacher on July 30 but she did not take any action.

The family alleged the school administration refused to take any action against the three students and the teacher even when they complained about the crime.

The schools vice-principal and teachers tried to hush up the matter and even tried to bribe us in order to not report the matter to police, the sister said.

The schools chairman refuted the bribery allegations and refused to comment further on the case.
Delhi labour minister Gopal Rai on Monday said the Aam Aadmi Party government will approach the Supreme Court against the Delhi high courts decision to quash its notification hiking minimum wages for workers by 37%.

The court had on Saturday set aside the governments March 2017 notification fixing higher minimum wages for unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled workers in the city on the grounds that it was unconstitutional.

The verdict noted that the decision was made without consulting either employees or employers.

Rai had on Monday held a meeting with officers of his department and studied the court order.

The Delhi government will challenge the verdict through a special leave petition in the Supreme Court, Rai told reporters in the Assembly premises.

The minimum wages of unskilled workers were increased from Rs 9,724 to Rs 13,350 per month, for semi-skilled workers from Rs 10,764 to Rs 14,698 and for skilled labourers from Rs 11,830 to Rs 16,182.

Rai said the strategy to be followed by the government in challenging the high court verdict would be discussed with counsels of the department in a meeting on Tuesday. He said the opinion of the trade unions would also be sought on the issue on August 9.

According to the Delhi government standing counsel, Ramesh Singh, the city is home to around 5.5 million unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled workers.

Rai said the court raised two points -- the decision was made hurriedly and the constitution of the committee was flawed.

However, the court has not commented on the formula used by the government to hike the minimum wages. The wages were increased after deliberations in at least 17 meetings of two committees over a year, Rai said.

In its 218-page verdict, the high court had also set aside the September 2016 notification by which a Minimum Wages Advisory Committee for all scheduled employments was set up. The court had observed that its formulation was completely flawed.

Rai said, The committee which recommended revised wages was similar in constitution to a committee that had been formed for revision of dearness allowances (DA).

The Delhi legislative assembly had initially passed The Minimum Wages (Delhi) Amendment Act in 2016 but it was returned by the Centre, which suggested some changes.

The Bill was reintroduced in August 2017 and was cleared by President Ram Nath Kovind in May this year. The Act stipulated fines ranging from Rs 20,000-50,000 and a jail term of one to three years for employers who did not pay the minimum wage to their employees.
In a hair-raising incident, a wig trader robbed his rival of hair worth Rs 25 lakh at gunpoint. Police said 42-year-old Ajay Kumar, whose hair exporting business was not doing well, hatched the conspiracy.

Kumar conducted a recce of his rival company Jhangir Enterprises in outer Delhis Nangloi, and robbed them of over 200kg of hair at gunpoint, last month. Kumar and his aide were arrested by the Delhi Police on Sunday and 118kg of hair was recovered, police said.

Police said Kumars aide Mangal Sen (42) posed as a customer to conduct a recce of the hair treating factory owned by Jahangir Hussain on July 25.

Just two days later, Sen, Kumar and a third associate barged into Hussains factory with a gun and knives. They assaulted Hussain and his younger brother Tajjudin Hussain before tying them up. The trio then fled with more than 200kg hair, Rs 30,000 cash and a few mobile phones.

The Delhi Police managed to trace Sen to Uttar Pradeshs Rampur on Sunday and recovered the stolen cellphones.

Deputy commissioner of police (Outer) Seju P Kuruvilla said Sen was traced using the phone number that he had used to contact Jahangir Enterprise in the garb of placing an order to export hair. We mounted surveillance on the number. Since Hussain had told us that one of their rivals, Kumar, had introduced Sen to him, we were also keeping a watch on Kumar. The conspiracy unravelled once we caught Sen in UP, he said.

Sen disclosed that the stolen hair was kept with Kumar, who lives in Sultanpuri. A police team searched his residence and arrested him. At Kumars instance, the police recovered 118kg hair from his godowns in Laxmi Nagar, Ganesh Nagar and Pandav Nagar in Delhi. We have also recovered the countrymade pistol used in the robbery, the DCP said.

Hussain said they purchased the hair from Tirupati and other temples in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Hair is auctioned there. We buy it at a cost of around Rs 22,000 to Rs 23,000 a kilo. The hair is then treated and then sold for Rs 26,000 to Rs 28,000, he said, adding that longer the hair, higher the price.

He said most of the hair is sold online to foreign firms. We sell the hair abroad. The entire business is online. If we get an order, we also make wigs. Price also varies... We have also sold hair for Rs 80,000 a kilo, he said.
Anticipating a surge in the number of cases of dengue, chikungunya and malaria over the next three months, the Delhi government has issued a circular asking private hospitals and nursing homes to increase their bed strength by 10- 20% till October 31 in an attempt to prevent a repeat of 2015 when the vector-borne diseases caused a mini health crisis in the capital.

It has been observed that increased number of cases of dengue, chikungunya and malaria is being reported. It is likely that the number of cases may further increase during the monsoon. Therefore, timely action needs to be taken, the circular reads.

The additional beds must be used only to treat patients with fever who show symptoms of mosquito-borne diseases.

The patients must be charged only 50% of the lowest tariff category of the hospital, the circular adds.

The Municipal Corporations of Delhi has reported 56 cases of dengue, 109 of malaria, and 37 of chikungunya in Delhi residents till August 4.

Hospitals and nursing homes in Delhi have to follow a specified floor to bed ratio to get registration. They have to provide 80 sq ft space for one bed and 60 sq ft for every additional bed in a ward, not including space for toilets.

However, these norms have been relaxed every year during the monsoon season since 2015, when Delhi witnessed its biggest ever dengue outbreak with more than 16,000 cases and 60 deaths.

If there is an outbreak like in 2015, government hospitals might not be equipped to handle everyone who needs treatment. The norms are relaxed so that everyone receives adequate medical care, a senior Delhi government official familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity.

These beds not only have to be available but also affordable, the official said.

Additional fever beds can be added in corridors and patients can even share beds in a crisis.
The registration process for Common Admission Test (CAT) 2018 for admission to post-graduate management programmes will begin on Wednesday and close at 5pm on September 19.

Candidates applying for the exam, to be held on November 25 in two sessions in 147 cities, must visit the CAT 2018 Eligibility section of the CAT website to ensure that they satisfy the minimum eligibility criteria.

The Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, is the organising institute for the exam this year.

Here are some points you should keep in mind before you apply for CAT 2018:

1) At the time of registration, you can choose any of the four cities as your examination centre. You will be allotted one of the four centres depending on the availability. If a candidate does not get any of the preferred cities, they will be allotted a nearby city.

2) You can download the admit cards from October 24, 2018, until the date of the test. The name of the test centre will be indicated on the admit card.

3) You should pay the registration fee through online payment modes only. Candidates belonging to SC, ST and PwD categories have to pay a fee of Rs 950, while candidates from other categories need to pay Rs 1,900. SC, ST and PwD candidates must upload a copy of their SC/ST/PwD certificates at the time of registration. Fee once paid will not be refunded. You need to pay the fee only once, irrespective of the number of institutes you are applying for.

4) A tutorial to understand the tests format will be available on the CAT website from October 17. There will be three sections  verbal ability and reading comprehension, data interpretation and logical reasoning, quantitative ability. Students will get 60 minutes to complete each section and they will have to complete one of them before proceeding to the next.

5) No change in the categories (SC, ST, OBC etc) of candidates will be entertained after CAT registration.
Yoga teacher to celebs like Katrina Kaif, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone, Deepika Mehta is your new must-follow Instagrammer. The 30-something yoga teacher and body-positive activist has posted 1,900 photos of herself in every yoga pose you can imagine  some of these will make your jaws drop just as quickly as theyll inspire you to roll out a mat and do some yoga. Its just amazing to see all the daring postures Deepika can do. She has over 1,50,000 followers on Instagram, including actor Alia Bhatt.

A post shared by Deepika Mehta (@deepikamehtayoga) on Aug 2, 2018 at 2:54am PDT

There are a million and one people (including stars like Malaika Arora and Kareena Kapoor Khan) on Instagram who do yoga and post pictures about it. But whats even more impressive than Deepikas mastery of Ashtanga Yoga (an ancient dynamic system of yoga that links body movements to breath) is her inspiring body positivity. Deepika teachs yoga just as much as she teachs self-acceptance.

Read more: Shilpa Shetty reveals the secret behind her incredibly fit body

Case in point: Deepikas post on Tuesday that shows yoga is for every body, and that flexibility isnt reserved for the small bodies were used to seeing on the cover of magazines.

Deepika, who travels the world teaching yoga in exotic locations, is full to the brim with love and yoga knowledge. If you live in Mumbai, you should make the time to go to one of her yoga classes, where she offers workshops that focus on core strength training drills and build up to basic and more advanced arm balances, as well as acing headstands, forearm balance or handstands.

A post shared by Deepika Mehta (@deepikamehtayoga) on Dec 5, 2017 at 8:29pm PST

Deepika, who reportedly wanted to become a professional jazz dancer, has been practising yoga for almost two decades and has an incredible story as to how she got into it. A note on her website, Now We Are, reads:

She encountered the teaching while on the quest to heal herself from a near death rock climbing accident. When doctors told her she would never walk again, she took matters into her own hands and found the healing powers of Ashtanga, meditation and Pranayama. Today, Deepika is one of the most recognisable teachers in India and spends most of her time teaching around the world!

A post shared by Deepika Mehta (@deepikamehtayoga) on Jul 30, 2018 at 5:06am PDT

Deepika is a reliable source for scenic yoga shots and her whole Instagram is a breath of fresh air. Nothing pretentious about her. Just a fit woman doing some yoga  and inspiring everyone else to do the same. Scroll to see her show 10 more yoga postures that are clean, in alignment, aesthetically beautiful and awe-inspiring.

Wassup Mumbai A post shared by Deepika Mehta (@deepikamehtayoga) on Feb 9, 2018 at 4:01am PST

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The illustrious Mumbai Police Twitter handle upped its wokeness on Sunday when it tweeted a road safety message paired with a picture of The Incredible Hulk. Urging people to wear helmets, the tweet made a reference to Hulk wearing protective gear in a scene from Thor: Ragnarok.

The Marvel character is known for being one of the most formidable and strongest superheroes in the Avengers roster. No matter how strong you are, never forget to wear a helmet, the tweet read.

The scene in question happens around midway through the latest Thor film, in which the God of Thunder finds himself on a trash heap of a planet and is forced to take part in a gladiatorial bout with none other than the Hulk, his friend from work.

Everything may not work out with all the grave mistakes you make! One mistake and... #WearAHelmet pic.twitter.com/rVP7cnnI89  Mumbai Police (@MumbaiPolice) August 6, 2018

After an inconclusive fight, the two then escape the arena and venture out into the further fringes of the universe. They return to Earth in Avengers: Infinity War, which takes place immediately after the events of Ragnarok. Hulk crash lands in New York after being pummelled by the villainous Thanos and Thor makes a memorable entry in the films third actset in Wakandaafter going on an intergalactic adventure with members of the Guardians of the Galaxy, and finding a replacement for his broken hammer.

The Mumbai Police is known to post quirky messages on Twitter, and has even warned a few Bollywood movie stars to set a better example to their legions of fans.

Hulk and Thor were a few of the characters to have survived the tragic events of Infinity War, which saw several of the newer Avengers reduced to dust at the end. They will return in the upcoming Avengers 4, which has been scheduled for a May 2019 release, and has been billed as a significant conclusion to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as we know it.

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Rescuers pulled the bodies of three fishermen from the waters off Munambam near Keralas Kochi and began a search for nine missing men after their fishing boat was hit by a cargo ship early on Tuesday, officials said.

The state coastal police said there were 15 people on board the fishing vessel Oceana and that the accident occurred at least 25 nautical miles away from the Kerala coast around 4am.

The bodies of the three men, all from neighbouring Tamil Nadu, were brought to the shore and Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy started a search operation for the missing.

The navy deployed a Sea King helicopter for the search and rescue operation after the Kerala government alerted it about the accident.

Efforts are on to locate the missing. It is sad such incidents are happening frequently. Only a probe can ascertain whether the ship or boat violated the guidelines, said state fisheries minister J Mercikutty Amma.

The coast guard identified that Indian cargo ship MV Des Shakti was behind the accident and efforts are on to intercept and bring it to the Kerala coast.

Survivors said the ship sped away after the collision as their boat broke and capsized under the impact. Three people were rescued by other boats in the vicinity and rushed to Kochi. The condition of one of them is stated to be serious.

Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has instructed the Ernakulams district collector to ensure the best treatment for survivors.

Fishermens bodies said they will organise mass protests if authorities failed to protect them in the future.

Two fishermen were injured when a foreign vessel allegedly hit their fishing boat on June 7 off the Kerala coast.
The Kerala police Monday solved the murder of four members of a family in Idukki, arrested one person directly involved in the killings, and attributed the crime to professional rivalry between two practitioners of sorcery and occult, one of whom, the victim, had trained the main accused.

The bodies of Kanat Krishnan, his wife Susheela, and children Arsha K and Arjun K were found stacked on top of each other in a newly-dug trench on the premises of their house on August 1.

Idukkis superintendent of police KB Venugopal said the murders were committed by Aneesh, a former helper of Krishnan, with the help of his aide Libeesh. Libeesh, a motor mechanic from Thodupuzha, has been arrested.
A PG medical student of SV Medical College in Tirupati, who had accused three professors of sexual harassment, has committed suicide in Andhra Pradeshs Chittoor district.

The 30-year-old victim was found hanging at her flat in Pileru town on Tuesday.

In April, she had complained to Governor ESL Narasimhan in writing that she was being sexually harassed by three professors from the Paediatric Department.

Following which the college management formed a committee in May to conduct an inquiry.

The student, meanwhile, was upset after she failed in the post-graduate exams. She had told her friends that she was deliberately failed as she had complained against the professors.

The suicide triggered protests by students at the SV College where a sit-in was staged demanding action against the professors.

The victims relatives alleged that the inquiry committee had not submitted its report and the three professors had gone to the media describing her as mentally unsound.

They said the attitude of the professors had caused her mental agony.
Four soldiers of the Indian Army, including a major, were killed in a gun battle with a group of militants trying to infiltrate near the Line of Control in Gurez sector in north Kashmirs Bandipore district, officials said.

It was an infiltration attempt that was foiled in which two infiltrators were killed. We lost four soldiers including an officer, defence spokesperson Colonel Rajesh Kalia said.

He said that the operation was still underway.

The soldiers, who were killed, have been identified as Major KP Rane of Maharashtra, Havaldar Jamie Singh, Havaldar Vikramjeet and Rifleman Mandeep from the 36 Rashtriya Rifles unit of the army.

Army officials said the search party spotted a group of seven to eight armed infiltrators early on Tuesday in the densely forested area of Baktoor, around 70 kilometres from Bandipore town. The infiltrators opened fire at the soldiers leading to a gunbattle in Gurez sector.

They added that the army had received an input about the presence of militants in the forested area. The area where the militants were intercepted is an old infiltration route and close to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The exchange took place in a dense forest area and now the army is busy in a search operation. The militants have been using the area to sneak into the valley as the Baktoor forest is also connected with Bandipore and takes three to four hours to reach inside the forests of Bandipore which are interlinked with Lolab Valley, an official said.

It is not clear whether the army has retrieved the bodies of the infiltrators or some of them managed to go back to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.

This is the first major infiltration attempt made by militants from Gurez that has been averted.

Intelligence inputs have suggested that the militants have been using the Gurez route for some time now to strengthen its cadre base in Kupwara and Hajin areas of north Kashmir and a few groups have successfully infiltrated through the area this year.

A senior police officer also admitted recently that militants are using Gurez to sneak into the valley.

The forests of Gurez were considered the favourite infiltration route by militants soon after the start of militancy in early 1990. However, the infiltration bids came down after the LoC was fenced.

In June, the army and state police had launched a big search operation in the forests of Pannar and Chandeji in Bandipore after an input that a large group of militants had sneaked into Valley after crossing the LoC and then entered into Baktoor forests.

Two militants and a soldier were killed in the operation. However, security forces couldnt trace the other militants and the operation was terminated after three weeks.

Last year, three infiltrators were killed in a similar operation in Gurez at Baktoor.
The Congress Ranjeet Ranjan threw a book and some papers after storming into Lok Sabhas well on Monday in protest against the alleged destruction of evidence related to sexual abuse of girls at a shelter home in Bihars Muzaffarpur. She raised the matter along with another Bihar lawmaker, Rashtriya Janata Dals Jai Prakash Narayan Yadav, as soon as Lok Sabha met for the day.

The two alleged the evidence had been destroyed before the probe into the abuse was handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge and Nationalist Congress Partys Tariq Anwar supported them.

Speaker Sumitra Mahajan allowed Ranjan and Yadav to raise the matter after the question hour was over. But she underlined there cannot be a discussion on the issue as the CBI is probing the matter.

Ranjan demanded a statement from Union home minister Rajnath Singh, who was present in Lok Sabha. She walked into the well and began shouting before throwing the book and papers kept on Lok Sabha secretary general Snehlata Shrivastavas table.

Yadav joined Ranjan in the well, where Telugu Desam Party members were holding placards demanding funds for backwards districts of Andhra Pradesh. This forced the speaker to adjourn the house for 10 minutes.

We all are sensitive towards matters relating to women, Mahajan said. The matter is with the CBI. The government must ensure that there is a fair probe.

This did little to placate the opposition. The home minister was here, but he did not speak, Kharge said. The opposition insisted on a reply from the government.

Yadav walked out along with Trinamool Congress members when parliamentary affairs minister Ananth Kumar rose to respond. The Congress lawmakers followed suit.

The sexual abuse at the state-funded shelter-home came to light after a social audit. As many as 14 officials were suspended while medical examination of 34 out of the 42 girls rescued from the shelter home confirmed they were sexually exploited. The owner of the shelter home, Brajesh Thakur, is the main accused.
Months ahead of the assembly election scheduled for the end of the year, the Congress won nine of 14 municipal seats in Madhya Pradesh for which by-polls were held, gaining three seats.The ruling BJP won only four and one seat went to an independent, the state election commission announced. The polling for these seats were held on August 3.

The Congress snatched 3 seats from the BJP. The by-polls in the urban bodies were spread across 13 districts in the state, which the Congress said indicated chief minister Shivran Chouhans declining popularity. The BJP countered saying the vote did not reflect popularity of the chief minister as the party did not focus on the by-polls.

Madhya Pradesh Congress president Kamal Nath said: Congress victory in nine wards and also the victory of Congress supported candidates in panchayats has exposed chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhans Jan Ashirvad Yatra being taken out on government expenses and also the government for its false claims on development in the state.

He said it was beginning of the end of the BJP government.

State BJP spokesperson Rajneesh Agrawal defended the party saying, The local bodies by-poll were left to the local leadership as the party was busy with chief ministers Jan Ashirvad yatra, party workers sammelan and booth level management. But the Congress has won just three seats more than what it had earlier. The fact is such a local level election are fought on local issues and has nothing to do with public mandate in state assembly elections.

Ahead of the polling the CMs yatra visited Damoh, Datia, Bhind, Anuppur and Satna districts. BJP candidates won in Damoh, Datia and Anuppur districts, but its its candidate lost in Satna.

Of the nine seats the Congress won, two were in Chhindwara district, the home turf of Kamal Nath. The partys candidates won one seat each in Nepanagar, Sarvania Maharaj, Dabra, Singrauli, Bairasia, Satna and Raghogarh Vijaypur municipal councils. Dabra falls under Gwalior district, the home turf of Congress MP Jyotiraditya Scindia and Raghogarh Vijayapur, n Guna district, Scindias parliamentary constituency.

Analysts said the by-poll results may not necessarily reflect the peoples mood as they are fought on a much smaller scale and dominated by very local issues.

However, the BJPs loss months ahead of the polls could be a morale booster for the Congress, which has been out of power in the state for 15 years, they added.

Political analyst Girija Shankar said: Perception created by results of by-polls is more important than the results. All depends on the political parties as to how they interpret the results and create perception in public ahead of the assembly elections.

This is fourth straight loss for the BJP in by-polls in the state across municipal bodies and assembly constituencies in the past year.
For locals in Deoria, the Maa Vindhyavasini Mahila and Balika Sanrakshan Griha was just another crumbling building near the railway station.

But after police rescued 24 girls from the two-storey building on Monday amid allegations of a sex racket thriving on the premises, the shelter home and the couple who ran it quickly became the talk of town.

Neighbours said they never suspected anything amiss because police would often drop off minor girls at the home, using a small amber-yellow gate to enter the building.

Police frequented this place which made it hard to believe that all these things are happening inside, said government school teacher, Mridul Pandey, who owns a house nearby.

Entry at the shelter was closely guarded and I have never seen any of the girl outside unattended, said Kamal Kant Singh, another local resident.

The couple who ran the facility, Girija and Mohan Tripathi, were also secretive, but people in the town talked of how quickly their fortunes took an upward swing after she registered a non-government organisation (NGO) and started the shelter home eight years ago.

Watch: Cars came to pick teenage girls: Survivor of Deorias house of horrors

Girija used to run a stitching and embroidery centre but now owns property and flats in the area. Her days changed overnight when she opened this shelter house by registering an NGO. She amassed huge wealth in the last eight years and developed links with political people and VIPs, said Raghuvendra Gupta, who runs grocery shops close to the facility.

The home is located near the railway station on a busy road lined with eateries and hotels that are bustling all day. But the smaller gate of the building opens into a deserted road where locals said cars would often be parked.

Every other day, a swanky car could be seen stationed outside but we thought she had a good image and so people would visit her,  said local Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) corporator Ashish Gupta .

Cars and vehicles of all kinds pass though this area frequently. I have also seen cars standing near the small gate of the building, said Kamal Kant.

Girija and her husband, Mohan, were among five people arrested after a 10-year-old girl escaped the shelter home on Sunday night by scaling the boundary wall and told the police about the alleged sexual exploitation of residents of the home.

Girija has denied all charges and said she was being targeted for demanding pending payments from officials. The government has ordered a two-member inquiry and has suspended the district magistrate.

When asked about the allegations, ADM finance Sita Ram Gupta said, This is a subject of investigation and we are looking in to each such aspects . A government level probe is also underway.
DMK supporters took Twitter by storm late on Tuesday demanding burial space at the Marina beach for their veteran leader M Karunanidhi which had been denied by the AIADMK government of Tamil Nadu.

Hashtags Marina and Marina4Kalaignar were trending with 31,000 and 19,000 tweets as thousands asked the government to stop playing politics and give the late leader a space beside other stalwarts of the Dravidian movement.

Former Tamil Nadu chief ministers Annadurai, M G Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa have been buried at the Marina beach and have memorials to their names.

However, the Tamil Nadu government rejected DMKs demand for burying Karunanidhi near Anna samadhi on Marina beach in Chennai, citing legal issues.

The government has offered to give a two-acre land near Gandhi Mandapam in Adayar, which already houses memorials for other former CMs, K Kamaraj and C Rajagopalachari.

Opposing the move, the DMK moved the state high court, challenging the decision.

A five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi died after battling age related ailments at Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday evening.

The hashtag, Karunanidhi had 110,000 tweets by 10 pm, according to Trends Map of India.
The discovery of a soldiers corpse and parts of the wreckage of the AN-12 transport plane at the 18000-foot-high Dhakha glacier in Spiti valley last fortnight, has given new hope to relatives of the 102 people who were declared missing after the plane went off the radar on February 12, 1968.

Sajid Malhotra, elder son of squadron leader P N Malhotra, co- pilot of the ill- fated aircraft, spoke for many when he said, Its been a painful wait of 50 long years, we are still hoping to get the remains of my father.

Chief finance officer of a private firm in Delhi, Sajid was beside himself with excitement when he learnt about the aircraft wreckage discovered by mountaineers on July 21.

The team leader even mentioned the burn marks on the corpse, said Sajid, whose mother Shammi Malhotra, 74, is yet to get a closure.

The Indian army is believed to have carried out an aerial reconnaissance of the area. I heard about choppers flying in the area but so far the army has not informed the civil administration about it, said Amar Singh Negi, officiating deputy commissioner of Lahaul and Spiti.

The challenge

Retrieving the bodies and wreckage from the glacier is a huge challenge, given the terrain of the glacier and the inclement weather conditions.

The point at Dhaka glacier where the bodies were spotted is nearly 17, 600 feet above the sea level. The wreckage is lying between 16500 feet and 18000 feet, says Kanwar Singh Kanwar, a mountaineer at the Atal Bihari Mountaineering Institute, Manali, who was part of the team that first sighted a soldiers body in 2003.

It takes about four days from Manali to reach Dhaka glacier, the biggest in the Lahaul valley.

The inclement weather remains a huge challenge. Most of the time, the glacier remains covered with fog and and finding the wreckage could be difficult . Also the strong winds make it impossible to fly small planes or choppers in the region to airlift the remains.

Climbing the summit is difficult due to the steep gradient, says Rajiv Rawat.

Indian armys 7th Dogra regiment had initiated an operation to recover the bodies from the glacier in 2005, but the expedition was called off due to the tough terrain. The army did not provide any explanation.

The sighting

A team comprising 11 mountaineers of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd (ONGC) and Indian Mountaineering Federation was conducting a cleanup expedition at Chanderbagha 13 peak when they chanced upon a corpse and some wreckage.

Rajiv Rawat, a mountaineering instructor at Nehru institute of Mountaineering in Uttarkashi, says they were all taken aback when a member of the team stumbled upon a hand jutting out from the snow. On a closer look, we found a corpse in army uniform. The wreckage was lying all over. We had read about the plane crash, so we figured that the body is of a missing soldier.

The plane belonging to IAFs 25 squadron based in Chandigarh was going to Leh when it encountered inclement weather, and the pilot decided to return to Chandigarh. Carrying 102 passengers, including the crew and 98 army personnel, the plane was at a height of over 13050 feet on the Rohtang Pass when it made the last contact with Chandigarh air traffic control.

The missing plane has been one of the biggest mysteries of the Indian military aviation, giving rise to several myths, one of them being that the plane had strayed into Pakistan and the soldiers had been taken prisoners. The IAF had conducted a court of Inquiry but could not ascertain the exact cause for the air crash .

A soldiers corpse was first sighted in 2003 by team of mountaineers from Atal Bihari Institute of Mountaineering in Manali. A soldier named Beli Rams body was later recovered. This prompted the Indian army to launch an operation Punur Uthan  to recover the mortal remains of the missing soldiers but it abandoned it due to inclement weather. Of the total 102 missing men, the army has been able to recover only three bodies.
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) patriarch M Karunanidhi shared blow hot-blow cold relations with the Congress during his six-decade long political career.

When he took over as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu for the first time in 1969, the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi called him confrontationist and wondered if he will cooperate with the central government.

Eleven years later, Karunanidhi or Kalaignar (a scholar of arts) to his supporters supported Indira Gandhi in the 1980 general elections after opposing her bitterly during Emergency, which also brought him close to the Janata Party founded by Jayaprakash Narayan.

The animosity between the two sides peaked in January 1976 when Indira Gandhi citing corruption charges against Karunanidhi dismissed the DMK government.

Kalaignar would often cite his famous phrase of 1980 -- Nehruvin Magale Varuga, nilayana aatchi tharuga (Welcome daughter of Pandit Nehru, give a stable regime) -- to emphasise his partys deep and strong ties with the grand old party.

On many occasions, Karunanidhi talked about the great regard the DMK had for Indias first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, and the cordial relations he shared with his daughter Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi and their family members despite having political differences.

He showered praises on Rajiv Gandhi for his efforts to bring back democracy at the grassroots level by empowering local bodies.

Kalaignar kept personal relationships away from politics.

The five-time chief minister would often proudly claim that he had even organised a black flag demonstration against Nehru.

During his political career, Kalaignar had played a key role in stitching alliances in Tamil Nadu and also at the national level.

He was instrumental in the formation of the National Front, a rainbow coalition led by the Janata Dal, in 1989.

But the Karunanidhi government was dismissed again in January 1991  this time by the Chandrasekhar government on the ground of breakdown of constitutional machinery and accusing the DMK leader of not doing enough to crack down on the Tamil Tigers in his state.

File photo of late DMK chief M Karunanidhi (R) with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Chennai. (PTI)

The DMK was also a part of the United Front government from 1996 to 1998. The Jain commission report on Rajiv Gandhis assassination had concluded that the DMK was giving tacit support to the LTTE whose militants had killed the former Prime Minister.

However, the IK Gujral-led United Front government fell in November 1997 after the Congress withdrew its support after its demand for removal of the DMK ministers was rejected.

This pushed Karunanidhi towards the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in 1999 and his party joined the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government till December 2003 when it quit the coalition over POTA.

After being political adversaries for nearly seven years, the then Congress president Sonia Gandhi got the DMK on board the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) in 2004 by calling up Karunanidhi to oust the BJP-led NDA from power in the Lok Sabha elections that year.

The DMK remained an important constituent of the UPA till March 2013 when it quit the coalition over the Manmohan Singh governments stand on the Sri Lanka human rights issue at the UNHRC session at Geneva.

After contesting the 2014 Lok Sabha elections separately, the two parties again came together for the 2016 assembly polls.

But the period between 2014 and 2016 saw bitter exchanges between the two parties with Karunanidhi calling Congress an ungrateful party for sending DMK leader A Raja and Kanimozhi to prison in the 2G spectrum scam.

But that did not prompt Kalaignar to go to the BJP fold again. In fact, he is said to have rejected repeated overtures from the BJP because he considered the BJP of Atal Bihari Vajpayee different from the BJP of today.

He would often describe Vajpayee as a humane leader and a gem among the masses but at the same time reaffirm his stand that the DMKs ties with the BJP had ended once the former Prime Minister took a backseat in politics following his illness.
Security measures at the Delhi Metro and the IGI airport have been stepped up with the induction of over 600 fresh Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel and commuters are being thoroughly frisked in view of the heightened vigil in the run up to the Independence Day on August 15, official sources said.

They said while passengers in the Delhi Metro are being twice frisked before entering the Delhi Metro stations, additional CISF quick reaction teams (QRTs) and flying squads have been deployed at select stations that witness a heavy footfall or are important from the security point of view.

The CISF, that is tasked to secure over 210 stations of the metro in the national capital region, has enhanced the number of security personnel in the network to keep a better eye on the people and their luggage, the officials said.

Passengers getting in at a number of metro stations are being frisked twice, first manually and later with a hand-held metal detector, they said, adding that instructions have been issued to the personnel to render the job scrupulously but without taking much time.

About 500 CISF personnel have been deployed additionally in the Delhi Metro network as part of the stepped up security measures in the wake of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15, a senior official said.

CISF metro security chief Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Raghubir Lal told PTI that they have already held meetings with various stakeholders like the Delhi Police, metro authorities and others as part of the drills undertaken to fortify security before August 15.

A new control room, armed with over 5,000 CCTVs and other smart tools, has recently been commissioned for the CISF and it will help us in better monitoring operations at stations under its surveillance cover, the DIG said.

Special teams of multi-wearing intelligence and passenger profiling sleuths have been deployed at various stations and they have been asked to keep an eye on a few stations by continuously moving between them, another official said on the condition of anonymity.

The officials said similar measures have been deployed at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport and passengers are randomly being made to undertake a second frisking, called the secondary ladder point check (SLPC).

While there is no specific threat this time, the security is on high alert. All civilian passes issued to people for entering the terminal areas of the airport have been disallowed as a routine practice, an official at the airport said.

About 100-150 additional Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel have been deployed at the airport and passengers may have to undergo a rigorous check of themselves and their luggage in certain cases.

In specific cases, passengers may have to take off their shoes and belt before they are frisked. The number of plainclothes personnel who spot trouble, both outside and inside the airport, have been enhanced, he said.

The official added that vigil has also been stepped and a close eye is being kept at all category of vehicles entering the airport area.

Presently, about 5,000 CISF personnel each are deployed at the Delhi Metro and the IGI, respectively.

Various events, including the main function at Red Fort where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unfurl the national flag, will be held in the national capital and the NCR to mark the 72nd Independence Day on August 15.
Congress president Rahul Gandhis attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his National Democratic Alliance took a metaphorical turn on Tuesday as he said that the magical train promised to people in 2014 is being driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver.

The people of India are demanding change. They will no longer be fooled by your (Modis) magical train that is headed for a bad accident, he said, addressing a meeting of the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP).

Gandhi called upon party leaders and workers to tap the rising tide of anger against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government and work very hard to give the people an alternative to Modis achche din (good days) bogus promise.

Reacting to Gandhis remarks, Anil Baluni, Rajya Sabha member and the BJPs media cell in-charge, said: People of this country gave us licence to run this train on the tracks of development. We are amused to see Rahul Gandhi talks about accidents, when he doesnt hold any licence to even run the train. He doesnt enjoy the confidence of his party, the proposed grand alliance partners do not accept him as PM candidate, and people do not have faith in him.

In 2014, Modiji said India had been a slow passenger train for 70 years and now under his rule the country will become a sleek and shining magical train which is destined for achhe din. Give me your votes, said Modiji, and I will take you on the best and most comfortable journey of your life, Gandhi said.

Four years of Modi rule later, sadly, India today looks more like a train that is being driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver, who does not care what happens to passengers he is responsible for, the Congress chief added.

With less than a year remaining for the Lok Sabha elections, Gandhi has sharpened his attacks on Modi and the BJP and projected himself as the main challenger to the Prime Minister. The debate over the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha on July 20 saw Gandhi taking on Modi in an aggressive speech.

However, the Congress has maintained that the Oppositions Prime Ministerial candidate will be decided after the polls, arguing that the issue is divisive and could derail the unity efforts at a time when all the non-National Democratic Alliance parties are coming together on one platform to defeat the BJP. Gandhi chaired the meeting in absence of former Congress president and CPP chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

We are meeting here today at a time when the crisis of governance in India under the Narendra Modi government  marked by corruption, total economic failure, incompetence and spread of social divisiveness  is at its peak, he said. Such aggressive language is only to be expected, one expert said. We will see a lot more aggression from the political parties and their leaders now. The campaign for 2019 is warming up. Rhetoric, semantics and slogans have taken over the old model of campaigning. Positioning in the media is very important nowadays and hence we will see escalation in war of words between the two sides in the coming days, said Delhi-based political analyst N Bhaskara Rao. Gandhi said people were looking to the Congress and its allied parties to help remove the Modi government and replace it with one that will listen to them, understand their problems and provide solutions that reduce poverty, unemployment and inequality in the country. There is a great responsibility that is being placed on all of us today, to win this historic struggle between the forces of democracy and social justice versus those of autocracy and social hierarchy, Gandhi told the Congress MPs. We have to ensure that the forces of hate, division and violence that are trampling upon the Constitution are prevented from coming back to power, he said.

Raising the issue of safety of women and children, Gandhi said, Reports of mass rape of little girls in Muzaffarpur, Bihar are horrifying. Lawmakers and leaders of BJP and NDA are protecting the culprits. The Congress chief kept up the attack on Modi over the Rafale deal, calling it corruption of the century and criticised the BJP governments at the Centre and in Assam over the issue of National Register of Citizens, accusing them of carrying out a tardy execution of the critical and highly sensitive exercise.

Gandhi also launched a blistering attack on the government over the flight abroad of businessmen Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi who are wanted for financial misdemeanours in India.
Armies of India and Thailand on Monday began a two week-long military exercise with a focus on enhancing anti-terror cooperation between the two sides.

A senior Army official said focus of the exercise Maitree will be to increase interoperability and enhance coordination in dealing with the challenge of terrorism.

The exercise will emphasise to hone the tactical and technical skills in joint counter insurgency and counter terrorist operations in rural and urban scenario under UN mandate, he said.

The official said, Both sides will jointly train, plan and execute a series of well developed tactical drills that may be encountered in an urban warfare scenario.
A US Navy veteran, who shot and killed Indian engineer Srinivas Kuchibhotla and injured two others at a suburban Kansas City bar in 2017, was on Tuesday sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.

Adam Purinton of Olathe shot and killed Kuchibhotla, and wounded two others  Indian national Alok Madasani and Kansas resident Ian Grillot  at Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas, in February 2017.

Purinton was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole, Attorney General Jeff Sessions said in a statement.

Earlier this year, he pleaded guilty in federal court to hate crime and firearm offenses arising out of the shooting.

At his federal guilty-plea hearing, Purinton admitted in open court that he targeted and shot Kuchibhotla and Madasani because of their race, colour, and national origin, and that he shot Grillot during an attempt to flee the scene of the crime.

Purinton has also pleaded guilty in state court to charges of murder and attempted murder, and has been sentenced to a term of life imprisonment in state prison.

The crimes at issue in this case are detestable, Sessions said. The defendant acted with clear premeditation in murdering one man, and attempting to murder a second man, simply because of their race, religion, and national origin. As a result, a promising young life has been tragically cut short, and other lives have been filled with suffering.

Sessions said in the statement that while the irreparable harm that Purinton has done cannot be undone, some measure of justice for the victims families has been achieved.
When the man in his trademark dark glasses would start a speech in his gravelly voice with the words En uyirinum melaana anbu udan pirappukkale (my brethren, who I consider greater than my life) in chaste Tamil, the large crowds that would assemble to hear him would go wild in rapture, cheering him on.

It was a line that Muthuvel Karunanidhi would use at the beginning of every speech  one his Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party workers would never tire of. He would electrify the party cadre with his acerbic wit and the vitriol he would shower on his opponents.

Karunanidhi died on Tuesday at the age of 94 after striding the political stage of Tamil Nadu like a colossus for nearly six decades, personally undefeated in any election he contested, whatever be the fortunes of the DMK. He was elected 13 times to the Tamil Nadu legislature and was chief minister five times.

Given his humble origins, not many would have given him a chance of becoming one key pole around which the Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu would go on to flourish.

Watch: Karunanidhi: Scriptwriter to maverick politician, the many faces of Kalaignar

Devout Hindus pray to Dakishnamurthy a form of Shiva considered to be the Adi Guru (first teacher). Dakshin in Sanskrit means South and when Karunanidhis parents named him Dakshinamurthy, they would not have imagined the influence that he would eventually wield on politics and even the art and culture of South India.

His parents were from the Isai Vellalar caste of temple musicians who would play the nadaswaram (a double reed wind instrument) and mridangam (a percussion instrument) as well as double up as barbers on special occasions. Experiences of caste oppression in what he saw as a Brahmin-dominated system made a young Dakshinamurthy identify himself strongly with the oppressed classes. He became a member of the strong anti-Brahmin moment in the state at a very young age.

Inspired by the Justice Partys ideals of social equality, rational thought and self-respect, Karunanidhi became an activist at the age of 14. An early clue to his prodigious talent, both for organising and writing, came in the form of an organisation he started for the youngsters of his neighbourhood in Nagapattinam district, as well as ahandwritten newspaper called Manavar Nesan that he brought out.

So inspired was he by the fiery speeches of Azhagirisamy of the Justice Party, that he eventually named one of his sons Azhagiri. In 1938, when the Indian National Congress led by C Rajagopalchari introduced Hindi as a compulsory subject in the then Madras Presidency, the Justice Party lead by E V Ramaswamy Periyar and C.N. Annadurai protested, leading to an anti-Hindi agitation in which a young Karunanidhi participated. Pride in the Tamil language, culture, arts, history and its peoples past achievements drove much of Karunanidhis ideology.

Read: Live updates on Karunanidhi

In 1944, at the age of 20, he became a movie scriptwriter for Jupiter Pictures. The first movie that hit the screens for which he had written the script was Rajakumari, released in 1947. The leading man in that movie was none other than MG Ramachandran, who would become first a close friend and eventually a political arch foe whom he could never vanquish.

It was the 1952 movie Parasakthi starring another Tamil superstar, Shivaji Ganesan, that signalled the arrival of Karunanidhi as a cultural phenomenon. The powerful dialogues, the underlying theme of a campaign for a Dravidan nation against the backdrop of caste oppression, stirred the Tamil masses. Karunanidhi used the power of his pen to push the ideological line of the DMK  of justice, equality, rational thought, self-respect, Tamil pride and identity as well as anti-brahminism.

Even as his scriptwriting career soared to new heights (eventually he would go-on to write the scripts for 39 movies apart from poems, plays, novels and songs that led to the title of Kalaignar or The Artiste being conferred on him by fans)), his interest in and commitment to politics never flagged. When Annadurai left the Dravidar Kazhagam of Periyar to form the DMK, Karunanidhi threw in his lot with Anna.

In 1957, at the age of 33, Karunanidhi entered the Tamil Nadu assembly for the first time from the Kulithalai seat in Trichy. From then on, irrespective of the electoral fortunes of the party, Karunanidhi personally never lost an election. Within five years, he was deputy leader of the opposition and party treasurer. In 1967, when the DMK came to power, he was public works minister in Annas cabinet and after his political mentor died in 1969, he became the CM of the state for the first time, a feat he would go on to repeat four more times.

In 1972, MGR, who had done much to popularise the DMKs ideology and its electoral symbol of the Rising Sun, left the party after differences with Karunanidhi and launched the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). In 1977, the AIADMK defeated DMK. From then on until the death of MGR a decade later, the DMK was confined to the political wilderness. Kalaignar tried propping up M K Muthu, his eldest son from his first wife Padmavathi, as an alternative to MGR, but that did not work.

In fact he was left heartbroken by the eventual defection of Muthu to the AIADMK over differences between the father and son. Although he initially opposed Indira Gandhis Emergency Rule and was a staunch critic of the misuse of Article 356 of the constitution (used by the Centre to dismiss state governments), Karunanidhi always had a love-hate relationship with Mrs. Gandhi and the Congress in general. He would align with the party or disassociate the DMK from the Congress based on his assessment of the need for an alliance.

None of it helped him come to power since the Congress decided to tie-up with the MGR-led AIADMK. It was only after succession pangs split the AIADMK in 1989 after MGRs demise that Karunanidhi returned to power. It was during this tenure that he was credited with attracting automobile giants like Hyundai and Ford to set up a base in Tamil Nadu, helping establish a reputation as the auto capital of India for Chennai. He was also credited with helping set up TIDEL park which eventually became the information technology hub of the state, helping make Tamil Nadu the second largest IT exporter from India after neighbouring Karnataka. It was also under him in 1996 that Madras became Chennai.

AIADMK, which had recovered under MGRs protege and his leading lady in numerous movies, J Jayalalithaa, handed DMK a defeat in the 1991 elections after the Centre had dismissed the state government within two years of coming to power. Subsequently, power alternated between the two parties, till Jayalalithaa broke the jinx just six months before her death in December 2016 by retaining power. Even in the 2016 elections, Karunanidhi won his own Tiruvarur seat easily.

Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa had a testy  and one might even say inimical  political relationship, with each ensuring corruption cases were filed against the other when they were in power. The enmity went beyond the political; in one infamous example. a vindictive Jayalalithaa had Karunanidhi arrested in a midnight raid and manhandled by the police.

In the latter part of his career, Karunanidhi became ideologically more flexible and did not hesitate to tie up with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) under Atal Bihari Vajpayee and even became a part of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance government. Even so, Karunanidhi kept the hackles of BJP supporters raised with his often irreverent comments. Which engineering college did Ramar get a degree from, he asked in a remark on the controversial Sethusamudram project, which was meant to create a shipping channel by dredging a walkway connecting India and Sri Lanka called Rama Setu.

While he shared a warm personal rapport with Vajpayee, he did not hesitate to switch sides to the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance in 2004.

Karunanidhi had an ability to switch alliances, whether it was with Congress-led UPA or BJP led-NDA, according to the DMKs needs of the time. While a few corruption allegations dogged his career apart from charges of nepotism in promoting the interests of his nephews (the Marans of Sun TV fame), Karunanidhi until the end retained his connect with the Tamil masses. Until a few years ago, Karunanidhi would write regularly in the party mouthpiece Murasoli and when his nephews, who ran Sun TV, fell out of his favour briefly, Karunanidhi launched Kalaignar TV to maintain the connect.

His family life was as tumultuous as his politics was. After the death of his first wife Padmavati, Karuna married Dayalu Ammal, who is the mother of Azhagiri and Stalin. When taunted in the assembly about his relationship with Rajathi Ammal, whom he had met during a state-wide tour, he boldly declared She is the mother of my daughter Kanimozhi.

Although he has anointed his third son Stalin as his successor and expelled Azhagiri for indiscipline, the issue of succession in DMK is not fully settled. Azhagiri, who is seen as the strongman of the partys southern base, operates out of Madurai.

It remains to be seen whether Thangai Thalapathi (Golden Commander), as Stalin is fondly referred to by his followers, would be able to inherit the legacy of his father. July 26 marked the 50th year since Karunanidhi took the reins of the DMK.

With the death of Jayalalithaa in 2016 and now that of Karunanidhi, Tamil Nadu has come to the end of an era in its often tempestuous politics.

Filmstars Rajinikanth and Kamal Hassan are waiting in the wings to fill the vacuum, and it remains to be seen if Stalin has the ability to ensure that DMK stays relevant. The DMKs Sun has set, will the son ensure its rise again?
It was a year in which Tamil Nadu was battling one of its flood crises. Then-chief minister M Karunanidhi asked all Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MPs to seek help from the government of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

The next day, in the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament, a few DMK members stood up and tried to explain  mostly in Tamil  the plight of the state.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee, then an Opposition leader, rose to his feet. He requested the DMK MPs to sit down and said, In Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi is in power. He has a lot of Karuna (compassion) but he is short of Nidhi (money). Please give the state government more money.

Indira Gandhi obliged.

Karunanidhis political life may have centred around Tamil Nadu, but that never came in the way of his developing a rapport with national leaders across parties. Former President Pranab Mukherjee was a close friend of his for more than 45 years, and he enjoyed a great friendship with Vajpayee as well as Congress president Sonia Gandhi.

The DMK patriarch trusted Sonia Gandhi. Not many people know that he was instrumental in naming the United Progressive Alliance (UPA). The original name has secular alliance in it. Karunanidhi, an atheist throughout his life, told Sonia Gandhi that in Tamil, the word secular means non-religious and people may not like it. It was he who suggested to make it progressive alliance, said Congress leader Jairam Ramesh.

Sonia treated Karunanidhi with respect. Be it selecting a candidate for the presidential election or on any other issue, he would be consulted first.

Mukherjees oldest political friend was undoubtedly Karunanidhi. Mukherjee was still a member of Bangla Congress  a local outfit in Bengal  and a newcomer in the Rajya Sabha when the two met. He was invited to speak at a conference organised by Karunanidhi.

When the DMK threatened to quit the UPA in 2012, Dayanidhi Maran even announced the time when DMK ministers would meet then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to put in their papers. Mukherjees junior minister in the finance ministry, SS Palanimanickam, came to bid him adieu. The senior minister came around the big table in his office to hug Palanimanickam.

Dont worry, you are not going anywhere, Mukherjee told him.

Mukherjee then went to Gandhis office and sought her permission to handle the crisis. An hour later, Karunanidhi said the problem had been resolved. The DMK, however, didnt last much longer in the Congress-led coalition, pulling out the following year by when Mukherjee had become President.
Two judges of the Tamil Nadu High Court are hearing a hearing a late-night petition challenging the AIADMK governments refusal to allow party leader M Karunanidhis burial near the Anna Samadhi on Marina beach in Chennai.

Acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G Ramesh and Justice SS Sundar began hearing DMKs petition at 10.30pm and are expected to give a ruling soon. The Tamil Nadu government offered to give a two-acre land near Gandhi Mandapam in Adayar for the burial of Karunanidhi, who died at 6.10 pm today at Chennais Kauvery hospital.

However, it refused a burial at Marina beach citing rules of the Coastal Regulation Zone Act.

As thousands of DMK supporters took to the streets protesting against the state government and chief minister Palaniswami, Karunanidhis son MK Stalin appealed to the party cadre to maintain discipline and to not give room for untoward incidents.

Urging the DMK workers to cooperate with the police and prove that DMK follows military discipline, Stalin said: Hand over anti socials to police , they may attempt to tarnish DMK.

Watch: Karunanidhi: Scriptwriter to maverick politician, the many faces of Kalaignar

Stalin, who took charge of the party in the past few years, had written to the Tamil Nadu chief minister appealing the state government Kalaignars body near his mentors samadhi.

Anna memorial, locally known as Anna Samadhi, was built in memory of former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, CN Annadurai, who was cremated here in 1969.

AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaas body is buried just 50 metres away from Anna Samadhi.

Fearing violence, the state government has requested for additional security from the Centre. The central home ministry is sending 13 units of Central Reserve Police Force and two additional were being called from the neighbouring state.

All opposition party leaders  Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder Ramadoss, Communist Party of Indias state secretary Mutharasan, Vijayakanth of DMDK have urged the state government to allow Karunanidhis burial near Anna samadhi.

Karunanidhi  five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu who dominated the states politics for six decades  died at Cauvery hospital at 6.10 pm today. The 94-year-old leader was admitted to the hospital on July 28 after he contracted urinary tract infection and developed a high fever.
Departed DMK chief M Karunanidhi had gifted his residence at the upscale Gopalapuram in Chennai in 2010 for setting up a hospital for the poor.

On the eve of his 86th birthday, he had donated it to Annai Anjugam Trust (named after his mother), to run a hospital for the poor after his and his wifes lifetime.

In 1968, he registered the house in the name of his sons Alagiri, Stalin and Tamilarasu and after getting their consent in 2009, the DMK veteran had donated it to the trust.

Former union minister A Raja and noted Tamil lyricist Vairamuthu are among the trustees of the Trust. Karunanidhi had purchased the house in 1955.
Sea of DMK supporters throng Rajaji hall

#Visuals from Chennai's Rajaji Hall where mortal remains of former Tamil Nadu CM M #Karunanidhi are kept. pic.twitter.com/D4XsRHTd81  ANI (@ANI) August 8, 2018

Rajinikanth, Dhanush pay last respects

Rajinikanth, Dhanush pay last respects to Karunanidhi at Rajaji hall.

Rajinikanth, Dhanush pay last respects to former Tamil Nadu CM M #Karunanidhi at Chennai's Rajaji Hall pic.twitter.com/L5aLRf9rxz  ANI (@ANI) August 8, 2018

Karunanidhis remains wrapped in tricolour

Mortal remains of Karunanidhi wrapped in tricolour at Chennais Rajaji hall.

Mortal remains of late DMK chief #Karunanidhi wrapped in tricolour at Chennai's Rajaji Hall. #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/R9hpksPCZG  ANI (@ANI) August 8, 2018

Dhinakaran arrives at Rajaji hall

TTV Dhinakaran arrives at Rajaji hall where mortal remains of Karunanidhi are kept.

TTV Dhinakaran arrives at Chennai's Rajaji Hall where mortal remains of former Tamil Nadu CM M #Karunanidhi are kept. pic.twitter.com/CtQ0vPPpVu  ANI (@ANI) August 8, 2018

Ambulance carrying mortal remains of Karunanidhi arrives at Rajaji hall

Ambulance carrying mortal remains of Karunanidhi arrives at Rajaji hall amid a sea of DMK supporters and police personnel.

Alagiri arrives at Rajaji hall

Karunanidhis son MK Alagiri and DMK leader Andimuthu Raja arrive at Rajaji Hall in Chennai where mortal remains of Karunanidhi are being brought.

Chennai: #Karunanidhi's son MK Alagiri and DMK leader Andimuthu Raja arrive at Rajaji Hall in Chennai where mortal remains of the late Tamil Nadu CM are being brought pic.twitter.com/QwCQTci7uT  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Mortal remains of Karunanidhi being shifted

Mortal remains of Karunanidhi being taken from Kanimozhis residence in CIT Colony to Rajaji hall for general public to pay last respects.

Chennai: Mortal remains of former Tamil Nadu CM M Karunanidhi being taken from Kanimozhi's residence in CIT Colony to Rajaji Hall. pic.twitter.com/X5B55BHUFe  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Chidambaram pays last respects

Congress leader P Chidambaram pays last respects to Karunanidhi at CIT Colony.

Congress leader P Chidambaram pays last respects to former Tamil Nadu CM M #Karunanidhi at Chennai's CIT Colony pic.twitter.com/otOhPS1qS9  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Police lathicharge DMK workers outside Kanimozhis residence

Police resort to lathi charge to control the crowd gathered outside Kanimozhis residence in CIT Colony where mortal remains of Karunanidhi are kept.

Chennai: Police resort to lathi-charge to control the crowd gathered outside Kanimozhi's residence in CIT Colony where mortal remains of former Tamil Nadu CM M #Karunanidhi are kept pic.twitter.com/8YTPmEOc1W  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Massive crowd at Kanimozhis residence

DMK workers raise slogans near Kanimozhis residence in CIT Colony demanding Karunanidhis burial next to Anna memorial at Marina beach.

Karunanidhis remains arrive at daughters residence

Ambulance carrying Karunanidhis mortal remains arrives at Kanimozhis residence in CIT Colony.

Chennai: Ambulance carrying former Tamil Nadu CM M #Karunanidhi's mortal remains arrives at Kanimozhi's residence in CIT Colony pic.twitter.com/STzkg772Zi  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Hearing on Karunanidhis burial deferred

Madras high court defers till 8am Wednesday hearing on DMKs petition to allow party leader M Karunanidhis burial at Chennais Marina Beach.

Naveen Patnaik expresses grief

Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik has expressed deep grief over the demise of former Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK president M. Karunanidhi. The CM has prayed peace and tranquillity for the departed soul and expressed deep sympathies with the family members: BJD statement.

Bharat Ratna demand for Karunanidhi

Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi chief Thol Thirumavalavan demands Bharat Ratna for Karunanidhi.

No legal hurdles for Karunanidhis burial at Marina beach: DMK lawyer

Area sought for Karunanidhis burial not governed by coastal regulation laws. Since all petitioners have withdrawn their plea, no legal hurdles to give Kalaignar resting space at Marina beach: DMK lawyer.

Sri Lankan President extends condolences

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena mourns Karunanidhis death. I am deeply saddened by the death of former chief minister and senior political leader Karunanidhi, he said in a tweet.

Two-day state mourning in Bihar

Bihar government has announced two-day state mourning in wake of Karunanidhis death.

Rajinikanth arrives at Gopalapuram

Rajinikanth arrives at Karunanidhis Gopalapuram residence where the DMK chiefs mortal remains are kept.

Chennai: Rajinikanth arrives at #Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram residence where the DMK chief's mortal remains are kept pic.twitter.com/62n4socdH5  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Mamata meets Stalin, Kanimozhi

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee meets MK Stalin and Kanimozhi at Gopalapuram in Chennai.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with MK Stalin and Kanimozhi at Gopalapuram in Chennai. #Karunanidhi pic.twitter.com/GcbbTW0C7N  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Mamata Banerjee backs DMK plea for Karunanidhis burial at Marina

Mamata Banerjee backs DMKs plea for Karunanidhis burial at Marina beach. Give Karunanidhi place at Marina. He is a popular leader, she appealed to Tamil Nadu CM Palaniswami.

DMK workers raise slogans demanding Karunanidhis burial at Marina

DMK workers raise slogans at Gopalapuram hailing Karunanidhi and demand his burial next to Anna memorial at Marina beach.

CPI urges TN govt to allot space at Marina for burying Karunanidhi

DMK as a party and Karunanidhis family requested for space at the Marina. The state government must deal with the issue in a dignified way, accepting the request, CPI national secretary D Raja told PTI.

The government should not create hurdles...it will be a dishonour for such a person, he said.

DMK cadre storm Twitter demanding burial space for Karunanidhi

Hashtags Marina and Marina4Kalaignar were trending with 31,000 and 19,000 tweets as thousands asked the government to stop playing politics and give the late leader a space beside other stalwarts of the Dravidian movement. Read full story

DMK lawyers reach Madras HC chief justices residence

DMKs lawyers for reach residence of Madras High Court acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G Ramesh who had agreed to hear the case against Tamil Nadu governments denial of burial land for Karunanidhi at Marina beach.

Karunanidhis body reaches Gopalapuram residence

Chennai: DMK workers and supporters gather outside #Karunanidhi's Gopalapuram's residence after the DMK Chief's mortal remains reach the house pic.twitter.com/60bz3vX1rP  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Karunanidhi deserves to be given space on Marina Beach: Rahul Gandhi

Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief: Rahul Gandhi

CM conducts meet with advocate general

Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi K Palaniswami conducts meeting with advocate general.

Rajinikanth asks TN govt to allocate land for Karunanidhis burial

Rajinikanth asked the AIADMK-led Tamil Nadu government to allocate land for burying Karunanidhi at Marina beach. Tamil Nadu Government must take all measures for last rites of Karunanidhi to be performed near Anna memorial. This would be the highest respect we would be paying to him. This is my humble request, he said.

Tamilians will never forgive state govt if burial land denied: Farooq Abdullah

A great leader has passed away, he did not only represent Tamil Nadu but India as a whole. He fought for federalism and for Tamil people. The people of Tamil Nadu will never forgive State Govt if it denies burial land which is requested by DMK : Farooq Abdullah on Karunandhi

Mamata Banerjee arrives in Chennai

Mamata Banerjee arrives at Chennai airport. The West Bengal chief minister is expected to attend the Karunanidhis burial on Wednesday.

All petrol bunks in Tamil Nadu closed tomorrow

All petrol bunks in Tamil Nadu to remain closed tomorrow.

DMK cadres take to the streets in Vellores Ranipettai

DMK cadres resorted to protests in Ranipettai of Vellore district against the state governments decision to deny a place for buying Karunanidhi at Marina beach.

National flag to fly at half mast in Delhi, all state capitals: Central govt

National flag to fly at half mast tomorrow in Delhi, all state capitals and throughout the state of Tamil Nadu. It has also been decided to accord state funeral tomorrow in Chennai and national mourning has been declared for tomorrow, announces Government of India, reports ANI.

Karunanidhis body to be brought to Rajaji hall at 4am

Karunanidhis body will be brought to Rajaji Hall in the Government Estate at 4am Wednesday to enable political leaders, the general public and party cadres to pay homage, the party said.

The body will be placed at the departed leaders Gopalapuram residence till 1am.Later, it will be taken to the CIT Colony residence of Karunanidhis daughter Kanimozhi to enable their family members pay homage, the party said in a release.

Two DMK cadres die of heart attack

Two DMK cadres died of heart attack after hearing about Karunanidhis demise in Mayiladuthurai of Nagapattinam district.

Madras HC to hear petition over Karunanidhis burial at 10:30pm today

Acting chief justice of Madras HC Kuluvadi G Ramesh has agreed to hear DMKs petition seeking the burial of Karunanidhi at Marina by 10:30pm today, if the papers are in order and the Advocate General is informed about the hearing.

Opposition party leaders Pattali Makkal Katchi founder Ramadoss, Communist Party of Indias state secretary Mutharasan, DMDKs Vijayakanth have urged the AIADMK government to allot land at Marina.

Unable to allot space at Marina due to pending legal cases: Govt

A government statement said it was unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications, report news agency PTI. Hence, the government is prepared to allott a two-acre site on Sardar Patel Road near the memorials to Rajaji and Kamaraj, it said.

Some reports said the government was reluctant about allotting space for Karunanidhis burial at the Marina as he was not a sitting chief minister.

Police lathi charge crowd near hospital

As cadres throng the ambulance carrying Karunanidhis body, police resort to a minor lathi charge to control the crowd. The ambulance moves at snails pace on TTK road.

Stalin breaks down as Karunanidhis body leaves hospital

MK Stalin breaks down as ambulance with Karunanidhis body leaves Kauvery Hospital for his Gopalapuram residence.

DMK moves Madras high court over Karunanidhis burial

DMK moves Madras High Court over space for Karunanidhis burial at Marina beach near Anna Samadhi. Party advocates are at the acting Chief Justices residence with a petition requesting midnight hearing.

MK stalin writes a letter to CM seeking permission to bury his fathers body inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leaders mentor CN Annadurai at the Marina. Tamil Nadu political leaders Vaiko, Thirumavalavan are urging the state government to revise its stand on allocating land.

Karunanidhi deserves rightful place, TN govt shouldnt play politics: Azad

Tamil Nadu government should not play politics. On such occasions, government and parties should be above politics. Kalaignar should be given his due. He deserves rightful place even after his demise: Ghulam Nabi Azad on Tamil Nadu government denying land for Karunanidhis burial at Marina beach

DMK cadre raise slogans against TN CM over Kalaignars burial

Hundreds of DMK cadres throng the Gopalapuram residence and raise slogans against Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami for denying permission to bury Karunanidhs body near Anna Samadhi.

Cadres raise slogans outside Kauvery hospital now, saying Vendum Vendum Marinavil idam vendum (We want a place in Marina).

Chennai: DMK workers protest outside Kauvery hospital after Tamil Nadu Govt denied land for #Karunanidhi memorial at Marina beach pic.twitter.com/udrGVkKy0P  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Centre sends 13 CRPF companies to Tamil Nadu

Central government has sent 13 companies of CRPF to Tamil Nadu on the state governments request.

State honours for Karunanidhi, says Tamil Nadu govt

State honours will be accorded to Karunanidhi and the tricolour will be draped over him, she said, adding a gun salute will also be given to the late leader.

The Indian national flag will fly half mast during the seven-day mourning period in the state and all government-related functions will be cancelled, Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan said. The orders were issued by Chief Minister K Palaniswami following the death of veteran leader Karunanidhi, she said in a statement.

Palaniswami has directed that a condolence message be published in the state gazette, she said.

AIADMK govt rejects DMK demand for Karunanidhis burial at Marina beach

Controversy erupts as AIADMK government rejects DMK demand for giving space for M Karunanidhis burial near Anna Samadhi at Marina beach.

Senior DMK leader Durai Murugan had said earlier, We had met CM and submitted a request for a Samadhi near Anna memorial, he had accepted our request then, but has not communicated anything in this regard till now.

Rahul Gandhi, Ghulam Nabi Azad in Chennai tomorrow

Congress President Rahul Gandhi along with senior party leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Mukul Wasnik to travel to Chennai tomorrow.

South Indian film industry mourns Karunanidhis death

The south Indian film industry joined thousands as they mourned Karunanidhis death. Actors Rajinikanth, Hansika Motwani, Trisha Krishnan, Pranitha Subhash, Rahul Ravindran, and composers GV Prakash Kumar, Anirudh Ravichander were among those who tweeted messages. Read full story

Karunanidhis body to be kept at Gopalapuram residence till 1 am

Karunanidhis body will be kept in Gopalapuram residence till 1 am. Then it will be taken to Kanimozhi s house in CIT colony.

Govt declares 7-day mourning in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu government has declared a public holiday tomorrow and a seven-day mourning after Karunanidhis death. The national flag will fly at half mast: Tamil Nadu chief secretary

No one can forget Karunanidhis struggle against Emergency: Amit Shah

BJP chief Amit Shah expressed grief over DMK president M Karunanidhis death today and recalled his impressive life journey, saying no one could forget his struggle when the Emergency was imposed in 1975.

Anguished to learn about the demise of veteran politician, M Karunanidhi ji. He had an impressive life journey, starting as a screen writer in Tamil film industry to being five term Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. No one can forget his struggle during Emergency, imposed in 1975.  Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 7, 2018

Read: Political leaders condole Karunanidhis death

Stalin appeals DMK workers to maintain peace

MK Stalin in a statement has appealed to DMK workers to maintain peace and discipline, thanks doctors and the management of Kauvery Hospital .

I appeal to party office bearers to ensure that the cadres disperse in a peaceful manner, he says. Stalin has asked the cadres not to indulge in any activity that would bring a bad name to the deceased leader and not to damage public property.

DMK workers raise slogans in Karunanidhis memory outside Kauvery hospital

DMK cadres throng Kauvery hospital and Karunanidhis residence in Gopalapuram. Only a few party workers seen at the party headquarters, Anna Arivalayam.

Chennai: DMK workers gather outside Kauvery hospital, raise slogans in memory of #Karunanidhi pic.twitter.com/gTRgrxAL3I  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

India has lost one of its greatest sons: Mamata Banerjee

Today India lost one of its greatest sons. And Tamil Nadu lost its father figure. Farewell @Kalaignar89. My deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu, @arivalayam, @mkstalin, @KanimozhiDMK and family. India mourns your loss  Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) August 7, 2018

Karunanidhis body to be taken to his Gopalapuram home

The mortal remains of M Karunanidhi will be taken to his home at Gopalapuram in Chennai from the Kauvery Hospital and then to Rajaji Hall for people to pay their last respects, a senior DMK leader told IANS news agency.

PM Modi to travel to Chennai tomorrow to pay his last respects

PM Narendra Modi to travel to Chennai on Wednesday morning, to pay his last respects to late DMK chief Karunanidhi. Congress president Rahul Gandhi will also be in Chennai tomorrow.

India has lost a political stalwart: K Chandrashekar Rao

In his death, India has lost a political stalwart and it will be difficult to fill the void caused by his sad demise. Telangana CM K Chandrashekar Rao has expressed his condolences to the bereaved members of the family: Statement

A big loss for Tamil Nadu and India: Pon Radhakrishnan

His demise is a big loss for Tamil Nadu and the whole country. On behalf of BJP and myself, I pay tributes to Karunanidhi, Union minister Pon Radhakrishnan.

India has lost a great son, says Rahul Gandhi

Chandrababu Naidu condoles Karunanidhis death

In a statement, Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep sorrow over passing away of DMK chief Karunanidhi.

Security alert across Tamil Nadu

A security alert had been sounded across Tamil Nadu, bearing in mind the outbreaks of violence in the past over the deaths of popular figures, news agency PTI reports.

Huge numbers of police personnel have been deployed across the state to control the Karunanidhis supporters, who were virtually camping outside Kauvery hospital waiting for every single detail from the hospital.

India is poorer today: President Kovind condoles Karunanidhis death

Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers #PresidentKovind  President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 7, 2018

A black day in my life: Rajinikanth

Today is a black day in my life, one which I can never forget as I lost my Kalaignar. I pray for his soul, Rajinikanth condoles Karunanidhis death.

Karnataka stops bus services to Tamil Nadu

Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation services to Tamil Nadu have been stopped temporarily

PM Modi condoles Karunanidhis death

PM Narendra Modi tweeted, Deeply saddened by passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised.

My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/7ZZQi9VEkm  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

Karunanidhi passed away at 6.10pm, says hospital

With deep anguish, we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 at 06.10pm. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond, Kauvery hospital said in a statement.

We profoundly mourn the lose of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family members and fellow Tamilians worldwide, the statement said.

DMK chief Karunanidhi dies after prolonged illness

DMK chief and former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi passed away at 94 in Chennais Kauvery hospital.

Tamil Nadu govt orders closure of liquor shops

The Tamil Nadu government has ordered the closure of liquor shops at 6 pm today, news agency IANS reported.

Amid rising concerns over Karunanidhis health, many in Chennai have begun to stock essentials like vegetables and milk, fearing a shutdown in the city and across the state.

DMK supporters wave party flags, weep outside hospital

Thousands of DMK supporters, both men and women, had begun massing outside Kauvery hospital even before the Tuesday evening statement, some waving the partys red-and-black flags and photos of Karunanidhi, news agency IANS reported.

Ezhundhu Vaa Thalaivaa (Awake, our leader) and Vaa, Vaa, Gopalapuram Polaam Vaa (Come, Come, lets go to Gopalapuram) were among the slogans raised by the emotionally-charged crowd, referring to the locality where the former Chief Minister has a house.

But after the latest medical bulletin, many in the crowd started to weep on the barricaded streets.

DMK worker breaks down outside Kauvery Hospital

#WATCH A DMK worker broke down outside Kauvery Hospital after the hospital released a statement informing that M Karunanidhi's health had deteriorated further. #Chennai pic.twitter.com/AWnxnWcf0K  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Mamata Banerjee leaves for Chennai

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee leaves for Chennai to visit ailing DMK leader Karunanidhi.

Crowds throng Kauvery hospital in Chennai

DMK cadres continued to mass in large numbers outside the Kauvery Hospital. The crowds outside the hospital started to swell after the medical bulletin issued by the hospital on Monday evening said that Karunanidhis condition had deteriorated.

Chennai: DMK workers break down after Kauvery Hospital released statement that M Karunanidhi's health has deteriorated further. pic.twitter.com/LapebJnjvi  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

DMK workers gather outside Kauvery Hospital in Chennai

#Chennai: DMK workers gather outside Kauvery Hospital as hospital releases statement that M Karunanidhi's health has deteriorated further. pic.twitter.com/rZ8yW7Uco5  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Karunanidhi extremely critical and unstable: Hospital

There has been significant decline in the clinical condition of Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi over the last few hours. Despite maximum medical support, his vital organ functions continue to deteriorate. His condition is extremely critical and unstable, Kauvery hospital said in a health bulletin released at 4:30 pm.

DGP issues circular to all district SPs, police commissioners

A circular issued by Director General of Police TK Rajendran asked all Superintendents of Police, City Police Commissioners and others to direct officials under them to report to them immediately in uniform without delay. The circular asked them to keep enough forces to maintain law and order. The zonal inspector generals of police (IGPs) have been asked to utilise manpower within the zone depending upon the requirement.

Stalin meets Tamil Nadu CM Palaniswami

After the Kauvery hospital reported a deterioration in DMK chief M Karunanidhis health, DMK working president MK Stalin, along with MK Azhagiri and Kanimozhi, met Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami at at his residence.

Around 6,500 cops deployed in Chennai

Around 1,200 police officials, 500 armed forces and 700 Tamil Nadu special forces have been deployed at Rajarathinam Stadium. In total, 6,500 cops are in Chennai as DMK supporters continue to gather outside Kauvery Hospital where DMK chief M Karunanidhi is admitted.
As the hospital reported a deterioration in DMK chief M Karunanidhis health, party working president MK Stalin met with Tamil Nadu chief minister E Palaniswami.

Police were being heavily deployed across the city as hundreds of party supporters continued to gather outside the hospital where Karunanidhi is being treated. The party supremo has been under critical care for the last 10 days. Doctors on Monday evening said there was a decline in his condition.

Dr Aravindan Selvaraj, executive director of Kauvery Hospital, said in a health bulletin at 6:30pm on Monday the 94-year-old former Tamil Nadu chief ministers response to medical interventions over the next 24 hours will determine his prognosis.

There has been a decline in the medical condition of Karunanidhi. Maintaining his vital organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age-related ailments, the bulletin said.

Sources at the Kauvery Hospital sources said Karunanidhis pulse and blood pressure, which touched critical levels at the time of admission, had witnessed improvement but slipped by Monday noon. They added that there are infections in the chest region and this also poses the complication for the medical team treating him in the intensive care unit.

Hundreds of DMK workers started marching towards the Kauvery Hospital in Alwarpet in the heart of the city as news of the deterioration of Karunanidhis health broke out on Monday evening. Outside the hospital, the DMK cadres kept shouting: Get up and come.

All senior DMK leaders, including party general secretary K Anbhazhagan, working president M K Stalin and DMK legislators rushed to the hospital. Karunanidhis elder son MK Azhagiri and his half-sister Kanimozhi also stayed in the hospital till late at night.

Traffic diversions were imposed in parts of central Chennai as party cadres and people started thronging the hospital.

Karunanidhi was shifted to the hospital on July 28 after being treated at his home in Chennais Gopalapuram for fever and urinary tract infection.

President Ram Nath Kovind, vice-president Venkaiah Naidu, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, actor-politicians Kamal Haasan and Rajnikanth were among those who have visited the hospital and met Karunanidhis family.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday shared his grief over the death of DMK chief M Karunanidhi in a series of tweet saying that the leader stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. The PM will be visiting Chennai tomorrow to pay his last respects.

Karunanidhi passed away earlier today at the age of 94 due to prolonged illness.

Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised, he said.

Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadus voice was effectively heard, the Prime Minister added.

Recalling his meetings with Karunanidhi on various occasions, the Prime Minister hailed the DMK chiefs understanding of policies.

I have had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi Ji on several occasions. His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered, he said.

My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/7ZZQi9VEkm  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

PM Modi also expressed condolences for the leaders family saying his thoughts were with them in this hour of grief.

My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace, he said.

Watch: Karunanidhi: Scriptwriter to maverick politician, the many faces of Kalaignar

M Karunanidhi died at Chennais Kauvery Hospital earlier today after prolonged illness. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resucitate him, he failed to respond, the hospital said in a statement, expressing deep anguish.
Thousands gathered outside Chennais Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday as the news of DMK chief M Karunanidhis death hit the country Tuesday evening. The leader, who died at the age of 94, had been undergoing treatment at the hospital for around two weeks for urinary tract infection and was being treated with intravenous antibiotics and fluids.

Several grieved and expressed condolences for the leaders family. As many as 6,500 police personnel were deployed in the city in an effort to maintain peace.

We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India, a statement released by Kauvery hospital said while confirming the time of his death 6:40 pm today.

Here is the full text of the statement released by Kauvery hospital:

With deep anguish, we announce the demise of our beloved Klaignar Dr M Karunanidhi on 07.08.2018 PM. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors to resuscitate him, he failed to respond, the statement said.

We profoundly mourn the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family members and fellow Tamilians worldwide, it added.
The discussions come against the backdrop of a failed effort to privatise the loss-making airline.

The Civil Aviation Ministry is in discussions with the Finance Ministry for a Rs 11,000 crore bailout package for ailing Air India, sources said.

Mumbai: The Civil Aviation Ministry is in discussions with the Finance Ministry for a Rs 11,000 crore bailout package for ailing Air India, sources said.

The discussions come against the backdrop of a failed effort to privatise the loss-making airline, which continues to grapple with financial woes. Sources in the know said that the Civil Aviation Ministry is working on a bailout package for the carrier, which would be utilised to reduce high cost working capital loans.

The proposal, which is at a preliminary stage of discussions, is for providing around Rs 11,000 crore package to Air India, they added. "Cleaning up the balance sheet of Air India airline will make it attractive for investors as and when the government decides to once again attempt strategic stake sale of the airline," one of the sources said. Query sent to Civil Aviation Secretary R N Choubey remained unanswered.

When contacted, an Air India spokesperson said the matter "comes under the domain of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and we should not be commenting on it".

The airline is staying afloat on a bailout package extended by the previous UPA regime in 2012. The national carrier's debt burden was more than Rs 48,000 crore at the end of March 2017. Last month, the government sought Parliament's nod for Rs 980 crore as supplementary grants for equity infusion into the airline.

In a reflection of financial crunch at the airline, salaries have been delayed for the staff for five consecutive months. In the current financial year, the airline has received an equity infusion of Rs 650 crore up to June. TAP and a Financial Restructuring Plan (FRP) were approved for Air India by the previous UPA regime in 2012.

All government guaranteed loans and interests thereon are being paid by the government by way of equity infusion into the airline. Under the FRP, high cost of working capital loans have been converted into long term debt carrying lesser rates of interest so as to reduce the financial burden on Air India.

"The TAP/ FRP includes budgetary support amounting to Rs 30,231 crore spread over 10 years ie. up to FY 2020-21 and also equity support for the payment of principal/ interest of the non-convertible debentures.

"Air India has received an equity infusion of Rs 27,195.21 crore till date," Minister of State for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha informed the Lok Sabha last month.
M Karunanidhi, DMK president and former Tamil Nadu chief minister, died at a private hospital in Chennai on Tuesday after prolonged illness. He was 94.

The Kauvery Hospital said Karunanidhi died at 6.10pm. Despite the best possible efforts by our team of doctors and nurses to resucitate him, he failed to respond, said the hospital in a statement, expressing deep anguish.

The Madras High Court, meeting at the acting chief justices residence, deferred till 8am Wednesday a decision on a DMK petition challenging Tamil Nadu governments decision refusing permission for Karunanidhi to be buried at Chennais Marina Beach.

As many as 6,500 police personnel have been deployed in Chennai and superintendets of police in all districts have been asked to keep forces ready to maintain peace. Chief secretary Girija Vaidyanathan and Director General of Police T K Rajendran met Chief Minister E Palaniswami earlier in the day to review arrangements for Karunanidhis final rites. MK Stalin, Karunanidhis younger son and political heir, cried as an ambulance with Karunanidhis body took the DMK chiefs home in Chennais Gopalapuram.

Watch: Karunanidhi: Scriptwriter to maverick politician, the many faces of Kalaignar

Do not give room for untoward incidents. Maintain peace, said Stalin in a statement, adding, Hand over anti-socials to police, they may attempt to tarnish DMK.

Karunanidhi was shifted to Kauvery Hospital on July 28 after being treated at home for fever and urinary tract infection. Stalin, his elder son MK Alagiri and their half-sister Kanimozhi met Tamil Nadu chief minister E Palaniswami at his residence on Tuesday afternoon.

Karunanidhi was first elected to the Tamil Nadu assembly in 1957 and last served as chief minister at the age of 82 in 2006 when the DMK-Congress alliance swept to power. He never lost an election.

The leader was visited at the hospital by several senior politicians including President Ram Nath Kovind, vice-president M Venkaiah Naidu, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman, chief minister Palaniswami, his deputy O Panneerselvam, and actor-politicians Kamal Hassan and Rajinikanth.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Twitter he was deeply saddened by Karunanidhis death. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised, he said.

Read: Live updates on Karunanidhi

The national flag will fly at half mast in Delhi, all state capitals and across Tamil Nadu on Wednesday as a mark of respect to Karunanidhi. The Tamil Nadu government has declared a seven-day mourning.

Modi, Rahul Gandhi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will attend Karunanidhis last rites in Chennai on Wednesday. Two DMK workers died of heart attack in Mayiladuthurai in Nagapattinam district after getting news about Karunanidhi.
DMK leader M K Stalin has asked party cadres to remain calm and maintain military-like discipline after his father and party president M Karunanidhi died in a Chennai hospital on Tuesday.

I appeal to party office bearers to ensure that the cadres disperse in a peaceful manner, Stalin, DMK working president, told DMK workers gathered outside Kauvery Hospital.

Do not give room for untoward incidents. Maintain peace, said Stalin, Karunanidhis political heir, in a statement. Hand over anti-socials to police, they may attempt to tarnish DMK.

Stalin said doctors had treated his father to the best of their ability for nearly two years, news agency PTI reported.

Stalin cried as an ambulance with Karunanidhis body left for the DMK chiefs home in Chennais Gopalapuram. As many as 6,500 police personnel have been deployed in Chennai and superintendets of police in all districts have been asked to keep forces ready to maintain peace.
Vandana Chavan of the Nationalist Congress Party is likely to be the opposition candidate for the Rajya Sabha deputy chairpersons post, the election for which will be held on August 9.

Bahujan Samaj Partys (BSP) Satish Mishra and Trinamool Congress Derek o Brien proposed Chavans name at the meeting of opposition parties on Tuesday in Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azads chamber in Parliament.

Azad is believed to be reaching out to Biju Janata Dals Naveen Patnaik and the Shiv Sena to seek support for her. The opposition is likely to meet again at 6pm.

The 57-year-old Chavan was recently re-elected to the Upper House from Maharashtra. She has been a member of the Rajya Sabha since 2012. Her sister Vinita Kamte was married to Ashok Kamte, one of the police officers who died fighting terrorists during the attacks in Mumbai in 2008.

The Bharatiya Janata Party-led ruling alliance has decided to file Harivansh Narayan Singh of the Janata Dal(United), a first-time parliamentarian, amid murmurs of protest from disgruntled ally Shiromani Akali Dal.

We dont have any problem with the candidate as JD(U) is our friend but first they told our candidate Naresh Gujral to prepare. He was preparing and suddenly they nominated JD(U)s candidate without informing us, Sukhdev S Dhindsa of the SAD said after a meeting of his party to discuss the polls.

Rajya Sabha chairman M Venkaiah Naidu announced on Monday that the election will be held at 11am on August 9. The nomination papers will have to be filed before 12pm on August 8.

The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since June this year following the retirement of PJ Kurien, who had been elected to the Upper House on a Congress ticket from Kerala.

As things stand, the NDA has the support from 93 members while the opposition has 118 MPs on its side in the 244-member strong Upper House. But the ruling alliance is banking on the 33 fence-sitters, including members of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and the Biju Janata Dal, to sail through.

The opposition is counting on the probable cross-voting by disgruntled lawmakers of the ruling coalition in the poll where no party whip is applicable.

The deputy chairmans poll will see the second electoral battle between the two camps in this session. Last month, the opposition was defeated in the no-confidence vote in the Lok Sabha where it secured 135 votes to the NDAs 330.

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Former Assam chief minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, who led a six-year agitation against illegal Bangladeshi migrants in the 1980s, leading to the so-called Assam Accord, has said the provisional National Register of Citizens (NRC) made public on July 30 was riddled with errors.

It has left out many indigenous people, even tribals, he said.

He said the registry, a database of all Indians citizens in Assam, will not on its own resolve the states longstanding problem of illegal migrants.

The NRC is to enumerate Indian citizens, not to identify or deal with foreigners, according to its legal provisions, said Mahanta, a student leader in the 1980s,who went on to become Indias youngest chief minister riding a wave of popular support.

The then Rajiv Gandhi-led government had signed the Assam Accord on August 15, 1985, with the All Assam Students Union, of which Mahanta was president, ending the agitation.

Popular support had swept his newly formed AGP to power that year. Its appeal has since shrunk.

Mahanta criticised the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-- with whom his party, the Asam Gana Parishad (AGP), shares power in the state -- for bringing the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016. The bill seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus migrants from Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Pakistan, apart from Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians.

Prafulla Kumar Mahanta reiterated his party would pull out of Assams Sarbananda Sonowal-led BJP government if the Narendra Modi government passed the bill. It is possible that the BJP will pass the bill before parliamentary elections to win votes of illegal Bangladeshi Hindus.

Prafulla Kumar Mahanta said the bill goes against the Assam accord itself and secularism.

Do Pakistan or Arab countries ever say all Muslims in the world are welcome to settle in their countries? Only one country does that, which is Israel?

The bill, if passed, would instantly make Bharatiya Janata Party unpopular, Mahanta said.

Of the states 32.9 million residents, over 4 million (40,07,707) were excluded from the registry being finalised under the Supreme Courts watch.

A final registry will be released after claims and objections of those left out are settled.

Lot of indigenous people have not made it to the list. To give an example, (the names of) one of our partys central committee member Dhrubojyoti Sharma from the Rangia area and five of his family members are missing. Similarly, the name of Mohammed Ali, an indigenous Assamese Muslim, from Saidpur in my constituency is missing.

Prafulla Kumar Mahanta said bureaucrats under the guidance of the Supreme Court had put in a lot of efforts.

But many officers have treated the matter casually, not seriously. During the period of revision for claims and objections, if everyone works hard to correct anomalies, only then we will get a correct NRC.

The Assam Accord, officially called a memorandum of understanding, has three main features on dealing with illegal migrants.

It sets 1966 as the base year to detect foreigners.

Migrants, who entered Assam between 1966 and 1971, were to be identified and their names suspended from the electoral rolls for 10 years.

Finally, anybody who entered the state illegally on or after March 25, 1971, will be treated as a foreigner.

Prafulla Kumar Mahanta demanded constitutional safeguards like those available in Jammu and Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, which make it difficult for outsiders to buy property there, for an effective solution to the migrants issue.

The former Assam chief minister said the Centre should also raise the issue with Bangladesh.

Let us begin negotiations, why should we make assumptions right now, Prafulla Kumar Mahanta said, on whether the neighbouring country would accept deported migrants.
Oppn dubs Rafale deal a scam, Congress demands setting up of JPC

Dubbing the Rafale fighter jet deal as a scam, opposition parties in Lok Sabha on Tuesday demanded a probe into it, with the Congress demanding the setting up of a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to investigate it.

Outgo on pension to exceed salary payment this fiscal: Finance Minister

The governments outgo on pension will exceed the expenditure on salaries by nearly Rs 10,000 crore in the current financial year, and the trend will continue for two more years till March 2021, a Finance Ministry document said on Tuesday.

BJP to hold rallies to connect with backward classes: Ananth Kumar

Union minister Ananth Kumar said that the BJP will hold scores of rallies, from August 15 to August 30, to give an account to people about the policies and schemes they have introduced for the development of the backward classes since 2014.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till tomorrow

Rajya Sabha has been adjourned till tomorrow amid protests by TMC members on (Assam) NRC issue.

NCPs Vandana Chauhan likely Oppn candidate for RS deputy chairperson post

Vandana Chavan of the Nationalist Congress Party is likely to be the Opposition candidate for the Rajya Sabha deputy chairpersons election to be held on August 9.

Bahujan Samaj Partys (BSP) Satish Mishra and Trinamools Derek o Brien proposed her name at the Opposition meeting in Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azads chamber in Parliament. Azad is also believed to be reaching out to BJDs Naveen Patnaik and Shiv Sena seeking support for her. The opposition is likley to meet again at 6 pm

Naidu chides members for thin attendance in House

Rajya Sabha chairman M Venkaiah Naidu chided members for the thin attendance in the House when a crucial legislation to provide constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes was passed on Monday evening.

At the start of the days proceedings, Naidu observed that 156 members were present when the Rajya Sabha passed the constitution amendment bill. We just scraped through, he lamented. We were exactly a little above the mark, thats all. Otherwise, you cant get it approved also.

Centre withdraws FRDI Bill from Lok Sabha

Nearly a year after introducing it in the Lok Sabha, the government withdrew the Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance (FRDI) Bill following widespread concerns over certain provisions in the proposed legislation. There have been concerns over the proposed bail-in clause to resolve a failing bank and insurance cover on bank deposits.

Continuously working for poor, weaker sections: Amit Shah

The prime minister had said that this government will be for the poor and weaker sections of the society and so we are continuously working for them, says Amit Shah.

Farmers income will be doubled by 2022: Amit Shah

We have undertaken a number of tasks for the welfare of farmers, ever since we have come to power, says Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha. Farmers income will be doubled by 2022. Budget allocation for agriculture sector was increased by 75%.

UP shelter home case: Rajnath says no culprit will escape action

With opposition parties raising serious concern over the alleged sexual exploitation of girls at a childrens shelter home in Uttar Pradesh, home minister Rajnath Singh termed the incident shameful and declared that no culprit would escape action.

RS panel to submit report on Ancient Monuments Bill in winter session

The Rajya Sabha allowed its Select Committee to submit its report on The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment) Bill in the second week of winter session of Parliament.

Opposition meets to discuss Rajya Sabha deputy chairman election

Opposition meeting is underway at Ghulam Nabi Azads chamber to discuss on candidate for the election of Rajya Sabha deputy chairman.

Paswan urges members to pass consumer bill without debate

Consumer affairs minister Ram Vilas Paswan urged Lok Sabha members to pass the new Consumer Protection Bill without debate, saying it is a revolutionary and non-controversial measure aimed at benefiting consumers.

The Consumer Protection Bill, 2018 provides for establishment of an executive agency to be known as the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) which will deal with unfair trade practices and misleading advertisements.

BJP to celebrate Social Justice week in August

The PM has decided we will celebrate Smajaik nyay pakhwada from August 15-31. We will go to every part of India and make people aware of decisions we made for social justice and safety. From next year, the BJP will celebrate Social Justice week from August 1-9 every year, says BJP leader Ananth Kumar after Parliamentary meeting.

According to news agency PTI, Prime Minister Narendra Modi invoked August Kranti, named so as Mahatama Gandhi launched the Quit India movement in this month in 1942, as he spoke about the historic significance of the bills passed in this month by Parliament. A historic law has been passed and another is likely to be passed in a day or two, Kumar said.

Party sources said Modi also spoke about his governments work for developing backward regions and backward sections of the society since it took over.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till noon

Opposition Aam Aadmi Party and Samajwadi Party forced a pre-noon adjournment of proceedings in the Rajya Sabha over alleged sexual abuse of young girls at a shelter home at Deoria in Uttar Pradesh.

Opposition MPs protest outside Parliament

TDP MPs protest in the Parliament premises over their demand for special status to Andhra Pradesh while RJD, SP and CPI MPs protest in the Parliament premises over Deoria shelter home case and Muzaffarpur shelter home issue.

Delhi: RJD, SP and CPI MPs protest in the Parliament premises over #DeoriaShelterHomeCase and #MuzaffarpurShelterHome issue. pic.twitter.com/f6ClYBD4Wz  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Mayawati says credit of implementation of Bill goes to ST/SC people

Our party gives credit of implementation of this Bill to ST/SC people of the country which includes BSP supporters too, who successfully conducted Bharat Bandh on April 2 and pressurised the Centre and BJP govt to retain the earlier provisions of the Bill, says BSP chief Mayawati : ANI.

Rahul Gandhi arrives for Congress Parliamentary party meet

Congress president Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders including Jyotiraditya Scindia, KC Venugopal and Ranjeet Ranjan arrive for Congress Parliamentary Party meeting: ANI.

Modi arrives for BJP Parliamentary party meeting

Delhi: PM Narendra Modi arrives for BJP Parliamentary party meeting at Parliament library building. pic.twitter.com/FhkuqQVcWJ  ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

Amit Shah, Union ministers arrive for BJP Parliamentary party meeting

BJP president Amit Shah and Union ministers Ananth Kumar, Prakash Javadekar and Arjun Ram Meghwal arrive for BJP Parliamentary party meeting at Parliament library building: ANI.
Uttar Pradesh women and child welfare minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi on Tuesday said preliminary investigation into the Deoria shelter home case confirmed sexual exploitation of inmates.

Addressing media persons, the minister said besides medical examination, the statements of 23 girls had been recorded and the documents of the shelter home had been seized.

Five people, including the manager of Maa Vindhyavasini Mahila and Balika Sanrakshan Griha, Girija Tripathi and her husband Mohan Tripathi, were arrested in Deoria late on Sunday night for allegedly forcing women inmates into flesh trade.

The incident came to light after a 10-year-old inmate managed to escape from the shelter home and narrated the ordeal to the police.

The 10-year-old girl who escaped from the shelter home has told the police about the sex ring that was being run from the shelter home. The district administration has committed negligence in taking action against the management of the shelter home, Joshi said.

She said strict action would be taken against the officials involved in the ring. Police have been directed to find out the girls missing from the shelter home, she said.

Hitting out at Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Samajwadi Party (SP), Joshi said the two parties granted permission to unscrupulous NGOs to run shelter homes when they were in power.

Girija Tripathis NGO was granted recognition to run the shelter home in 2010 when the BSP was in power. During the SP government, the NGO was given permission to run child protection home, adoption centre, reform centre and women protection home as well, she noted.

She alleged that the SP and the BSP governments had appointed people with dubious credentials as members of the district child welfare committees in all the 75 districts.

Action against 70 people

The state government has decided to take action against 70 people who were involved in irregularities. Pratibha Srivastava, an employee of Maa Vindhyavasani Mahila and Balika Sanraksham Grih, was also appointed a member of Deoria child welfare committee, Joshi said.

Later, the NGO also got permission to run Sachal Palna Griha Scheme for children of labourers hired under the MNREGA project, the minister said, adding that a PIL petition was filed in 2014 at the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad high court alleging misappropriation of funds in Sachal Palna Grih Scheme.

In an order on May 30, 2017, the high court asked the Central Bureau of Investigation to probe into the scheme. The central government had released Rs 1,100 crore for the scheme, she said.

During investigation, CBI found that the NGO had committed financial irregularities after which the women and child welfare department stopped financial aid to it.

In June 2017, the recognition of 21 NGOs, including Maa Vindhyavasani Mahila and Balika Sanraksham Grih, which were running Sachal Palna Grih Scheme, was cancelled.

The NGOs were directed to close shelter homes and letters were sent to the district magistrate and the district probation officer to transfer the shelter home inmates to another accommodation but the district administration did not take action, Joshi said.

Strict action will be taken against the officers found hand in glove with the tainted NGO, she said.

Joshi said the state government was planning to set up shelter homes at divisional headquarters rather than in districts so that their working could be properly monitored.

The BJP government has floated tender for shelter homes. Accredited NGOs that have experience in operating various social schemes are being given preference. The state government has received 150 applications and five top NGOs have been granted permission, she said.
New Delhi

Amid a controversy over burial of late DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said the veteran Tamil politician deserved a burial space near the Anna Memorial in Marina beach like former chief minister J Jayalalithaa as he was an expression of the voice of the people.

Gandhi hoped that the Tamil Nadu government, which refused DMK burial space for Karunanidhi in Marina, would be magnanimous in this time of grief.

Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief, Gandhi said on Twitter.

Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief. #Marina4Kalaignar  Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 7, 2018

Rejecting the DMKs demand for a burial space at Marina, the AIADMK government offered space at Gandhi Mandapam on Sardar Patel road, near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamraj.

DMK working president M K Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi  a five-time chief minister and 13-time MLA  had written to current CM, Edapaddi Palaniswami, seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leaders mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina.

The mortal remains of AIADMK founder M G Ramachandran and his successor J Jayalalithaa are buried near Annadurais memorial at Marina beach.

After the government rejected their demand, the DMK moved the state high court, challenging the decision.

All opposition party leaders  Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) founder Ramadoss, Communist Party of Indias state secretary Mutharasan, Vijayakanth of DMDK  have urged the state government to allow Karunanidhis burial near Anna Memorial.

Political analyst Tharaasu Shyaam said the bodies of Rajagopalachari and Kamaraj  both Congressmen  were kept in Gandhi Mandapam since they had a connection with the Gandhian principle. However, Karunanidhi evolved from Dravidian principle. So, it is necessary to bury him near his mentor Annadurai, he said.
Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday called upon party leaders and workers to tap the rising tide of anger against the BJP-led government, and work hard to give the people an alternative to Prime Minister Narendra Modis bogus promise of acche din (good days).

We are meeting here today at a time when the crisis of governance in India under the Narendra Modi government  marked by corruption, total economic failure, incompetence and spread of social divisiveness  is at its peak, he said, addressing a meeting of the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP).

There is a rising tide of anger against the current ruling dispensation that calls upon all of us to work very hard to give the people of India the alternative they deserve  an alternative to the bogus promise of Modijis acche din, he added.

Former party president and CPP chairperson Sonia Gandhi was not present at the meeting.

Raising doubts about the safety of women and children under the Modi government, Gandhi said: Reports of mass rape of little girls at Muzaffarpur in Bihar are horrifying. Lawmakers and leaders of the BJP and NDA are protecting the culprits.

The womens reservation bill will remain a piece of paper unless it was brought in the monsoon session of Parliament, he added.

Gandhi also attacked the Modi government over the Rafale aircraft deal with France, terming it as the corruption of the century. The Rafale scam, involving over Rs 1.3 lakh crore of public money and designed to bail out debt-ridden corporate cronies of Modiji, is symbolic of the true sanskar of this government  Raam Naam Japna, Paraya Maal Apna, he alleged.

The party president reiterated his accusation that the present dispensation was purchasing the Rafale jet at Rs 1,670 crore per aircraft when the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government had finalised the price at Rs 570 crore in its 2012 deal. He also questioned the motive behind transferring the offset contract from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to the Anil Ambani-owned Reliance Defence Limited.

As many as 36 Rafale jets will be delivered to India between September 2019 and April 2022 as part of an inter-governmental pact signed with France in September 2016.

Alleging that gross NPAs (non-performing assets) have risen from Rs 2.6 lakh crore to Rs 11 lakh crore in the last four years, he said: Instead of getting the money back from a handful of industrialists who have looted over Rs 8 lakh crore from the banks, Modijis government is busy writing off their loans.

He cited the case of businessman Nirav Modi, who drew Rs 35,000 crore in loans before fleeing the country, to illustrate his point. Instead of catching thieves like Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya, Modiji gave (Gitanjali Gems chief) Mehul Bhai Choksi a clean chit in November 2017  enabling him to obtain Antiguan citizenship. This Bhai looted the PNB (Punjab National Bank) of Rs 13,000 crore before scooting from India, Gandhi asserted.

While the Congress president admitted that the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government had initiated work on the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam to fulfill the commitment made in the Assam accord of 1985, he accused the BJP governments at the central and state levels of executing the Rs 1,200-crore exercise in a tardy manner. The most important and urgent issue before the nation today is the crisis created by the botched and insensitive implementation of the NRC. The manner in which this exercise was undertaken has left millions of innocent citizens living in fear of being thrown out of their own country, he said.

Gandhi said anti-social groups that indulge in public lynchings have no fear of the law under the Modi administration. He also spoke on the agrarian crisis and the alleged rise in unemployment, besides the shoddy implementation of the demonetisation and Goods and Services Tax initiatives.

In 2014, Modiji said that India had been a slow passenger train for 70 years, and it will become a sleek and shining magical train destined for acche din under his rule. But four years later, India looks more like a train that is being driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver who does not care what happens to the passengers he is responsible for, he said. The people of India are demanding change. They will no longer be fooled by your magical train that is headed for a bad accident.

The Congress president went on to allege that there has been a systematic attack on every single institution of the country ever since the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and BJP came to power. In modern India, these institutions were called temples of democracy. Today, the RSS is intent on destroying every single one of them. Every single institution is being penetrated by their people and the nature of the institutions itself is being changed, he said.

According to Gandhi, the people of India are counting on the Congress and its allies to help replace the Modi regime with a government that listens to them, understands their problems and provides solutions for issues such as poverty, unemployment and inequality in the country. There is a great responsibility being placed on all of us today. We are meant to win this historic battle between the forces of democracy and social justice and those of autocracy and social hierarchy, he told party MPs. We have to ensure that the forces of hate, division and violence that are trampling on the Constitution are prevented from coming back to power.

Gandhi asserted that the Congress has multiple responsibilities to fulfill in the current scenario. We have to restore hope in the eyes of the Indian farmers and youth about their right to decent incomes and a dignified life. We have to give relief to ordinary families being crushed under the dual burden of household debt and rising prices of essential goods. We have to ensure the safety of Indian women. We have to ensure the protection of our Dalit brothers and sisters, and ensure that they get justice, he said.
Thousands of police officials have been deployed in Chennai after a hospital reported that DMK president M Karunanidhis health has declined.

Karunanidhis younger son and political heir MK Stalin his elder son MK Alagiri and daughter Kanimozhi met Tamil Nadu chief minister E Palaniswami at his residence on Tuesday afternoon. There are 6,500 police officials deployed in Chennai now.

Hundreds of supporters of Karunanidhi, 94, are gathered outside the Kauvery Hospital, which on Monday announced that the former chief ministers health has declined.

Sources at the Kauvery Hospital said Karunanidhis pulse and blood pressure, which touched critical levels at the time of admission, had witnessed improvement but slipped by Monday noon. They added that there are infections in the chest region and this also poses the complication for the medical team treating him in the intensive care unit.

Karunanidhi was shifted to the hospital on July 28 after being treated at his home in Chennais Gopalapuram for fever and urinary tract infection.

President Ram Nath Kovind, vice-president Venkaiah Naidu, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, actor-politicians Kamal Haasan and Rajnikanth were among those who have visited the hospital and met Karunanidhis family.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday threatened to send the coordinator of National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam and registrar general of India to jail for contempt and restrained them from speaking on the politically charged issue to the media without its approval.

A bench of justice Ranjan Gogoi and justice RF Nariman said the statements made by NRC coordinator Prateek Hajela and registrar general Sailesh on the issue of dealing with claims and objections of those who have been left out in the draft NRC were most unfortunate.

We should be holding both of you guilty of contempt and sending both of you to jail. Whatever you say they all reflect on us, the top court, which is monitoring the NRC, said.

It said that it could have taken a sterner view of the matter but was letting them of keeping in mind their future task of preparation and publication of the final NRC of Assam.

Your job is not to go to press holding the brief for somebody, the bench said.

More than 40 lakh of the total 3.29 crore residents of the state were excluded from the NRC draft list, which seeks to prove citizenship and weed out illegal immigrants, when it was released on July 30, sparking uncertainty about their future.

The final list will be released at a later date once all claims and objections of those left out are settled.

Are you in any manner concerned with the claims and objections to be made? What have you said in newspapers and tell us how are you concerned with that? Justice Gogoi asked the officials.

The court said it had asked the Centre to formulate standard operating procedures to deal with the claims and objections of those left out in the draft NRC and accused the officials of making statements on modalities which squarely fell in its domain.

Dont forget, you are the officers of the court. Your job is to comply with our directions. How can you go to press like this? it asked.

The officers tendered an unconditional apology to the bench.

Hajela said he had consulted Sailesh, who uses one name, and talked to the media to dispel apprehensions regarding dealing of complaints.

Hajela had informed the court the claims and objections regarding inclusion and exclusion in the NRC could be filed from August 30 to September 28. He said the draft NRC will be displayed or made available to them through seva kendras till August 7.

The court fixed the matter on August 16.

It had said on July 31 that there will be no coercive action against over 40 lakh people, whose names do not figure in Assams NRC and observed that it was merely a draft.

And it had also said earlier that the claims of citizens, whose names do not figure in the draft NRC published by December 31 last year, would be scrutinised and included in the subsequent list if found genuine.
The back of the smartphone features a cutout for dual cameras on the top left corner, followed by the Tesla logo.

It seems Tesla is eyeing a spot in the smartphone market, after carving a niche in premium electric cars and attempting space exploration with SpaceX projects, as per a leak. (Photo: Youtube)

New Delhi: Since Tesla already sells branded gadgets like an external battery, why not a smartphone?

It seems Tesla is eyeing a spot in the smartphone market, after carving a niche in premium electric cars and attempting space exploration with SpaceX projects, as per a leak.

Pictures of the phones front and rear panels were shared online on leaks repository SlashLeaks. The core design and format feel like the Galaxy S8 a bit, but with a trademark V shaped area at the back, where the Tesla logo sits.

The screen is gently curved to the sides, but somehow in a way thats unlike the Galaxy S7 Edge, Note 8 or S8. There are dual slits/cutouts upfront for the speakers and theres something about this phone that screams gaming to me.

The phone, as per the leak, is reportedly codenamed Quadra and features latest design trends such as a bezel-less design with a top display notch.

This notch will possibly accommodate the earpiece, ambient light and proximity sensors and a front camera. The bottom bezel looks much thinner than other smartphones out there, which essentially means a higher screen-to-body ratio.

The back of the smartphone features a cutout for dual cameras on the top left corner, followed by the Tesla logo, and what looks like a G4 branding. The bottom half has a cutout strip, possibly for the speaker grill.

These are the only details that could be decoded from the current batch of leaked photographs and specs such as RAM, processor or camera are unknown. Tesla is known for its electric sedans and SUVs, and is also the company behind some other ambitious projects like the Hyperloop public transportation system.

However, it is prudent to hold the horses right now while looking at these leaks. But if these leaks turn out to be true, then big smartphone giants will be looking at some more competition  and more importantly  Musks entry into the smartphone business.
One of the 24 inmates rescued from a shelter home in Uttar Pradeshs Deoria has claimed that some women and children were sent abroad.

Four people came and took a 5-year-old boy in December last year and 8-year-old twin sisters in March this year. We were told they are going abroad, the girl said.

She added the middle aged visitors, two of them women, distributed sweets and food before taking the children. They were told the children were being taken to Spain.

A man, claiming to be the father of one of the inmates, said he was not allowed to meet his daughter. It seemed they were afraid of the girls spilling the beans, he said.

Twenty-four inmates were rescued following a police raid which found 18 others missing. The raid came after a 10-year-old girl scaled the walls of the shelter and escaped to narrate the sexual abuse and exploitation to cops.

Girija Tripathi, who ran the home, her husband Mohan Tripathi and their daughter were arrested after the raid.

Though neighbours said they never suspected anything amiss at Maa Vindhyavasini Mahila and Balika Sanrakshan Griha, inmates have revealed horror tales of sexual and physical abuse at the home.

The girl who escaped told police inmates were taken out every night and they used to return in the morning. Many times white, black and red cars used to come and take away the girls. When they (girls) returned in the morning, they used to cry, said the 10-year-old girl whose escape from a shelter home in UPs Deoria led to the uncovering of a sex racket.

The shelter home was functioning illegally for more than a year in connivance with district officials who ignored orders to take action against it, a senior state government official wishing anonymity said.
LGBT campaigners urged Indias state governments on Monday to learn a lesson from Kerala after authorities in the southern state said they would cover the cost of gender reassignment surgeries.

Keralas chief minister said his government would pay Rs 2,00,000 rupees to allow people to have the procedure, the second Indian state to do so after neighbouring Tamil Nadu.

If more money is required, it will be made available, Jaffar Malik, director of the states social justice department, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation on Monday.

Maya Urmi Aher, a transgender woman and rights activist, called it a welcome step. Other states must learn a lesson from Kerala, she said.

Being a community that is so stigmatised and discriminated against, most do not have an education or jobs, meaning they do not have much money, she said.

Kerala has assigned three hospitals for gender reassignment surgery and said it would also pay for people to have the procedure outside the state and reimburse those who had already done so.

A 2015 government survey found there were about 25,000 transgender people in Kerala and more than 80% wished to undergo the surgery but needed financial help.

Faisul Fasu, also a transgender activist in Kerala, said money was often the biggest obstacle to surgery, adding, this will encourage those who are planning to go for sex reassignment surgery.

India is estimated to have about 2 million transgender people, who are often confined to the margins of society.

In 2014, the Supreme Court ruled that they had equal rights under the law, and granted legal status to the third gender, giving them the right to marry and inherit property.

Yet abuse and exploitation remain rife. Many have no formal education and are denied jobs, forcing them into sex work, begging or dancing at weddings to make ends meet.

Kerala, one of the most transgender-friendly states in India, has put in place measures to improve access to education and jobs. Last month, it announced it would reserve places in higher education for transgender students.

India as a whole spends just over 1% of its GDP on public healthcare  among the worlds lowest  and its public health system is overburdened and underfunded.

A Bill aimed at protecting the rights of transgender people is expected to be introduced in Indias parliament this week, although it is unlikely to be passed before the current session ends on Friday.
Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) will be organising Akhand Bharat Sankalp Diwas in different parts of country on August 14 to give an impetus to its dream of undivided India of the pre-Independence era.

In Allahabad, the occasion will be marked by the maiden visit of newly appointed international secretary general

of the Parishad Milind Parande.

He is likely to announce VHPs agenda for Kumbh Mela as well as its role in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls at a meeting to be held at Sangeet Samiti auditorium.

According to VHPs office bearer Ashwini Mishra, the programme will organised on August 14  the day of Partition.

The motive behind organising the programme is to apprise the new generation that Akhand Bharat or undivided India is still not free as some parts of it yet existed in a different name and rule, he added.

The new international general secretary of the Parishad on his maiden visit is expected to speak about the role of Parishad in organising Kumbh Mela. Besides, he may also make major announcements regarding VHPs stand for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Lok Sabha election. Around 5,000 leaders and activists of the Parishad are expected to participate in the day-long programme, Mishra said.

As per VHPs Kashi pranth sangathan mantri Mukesh ji, the issue of Ram temple will be raised during the Sant Samagam at Kumbh. He added that the ruling party will have to answer the same as four years had passed and no progress was made in this context.

As of now, I will just say that the VHP has decided its role in forthcoming Lok Sabha polls and now it is up to the BJP leadership to take a call. Rest the details of our plan will be declared by international secretary general of the Parishad Milind Parande during his visit to Allahabad on August 14, he added.
Muthuvel Karunanidhi participated in his first political activity eight decades ago (1938), became a legislator for the first time six decades ago (1957) and chief minister five decades ago (1969). It goes without saying that the leader of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) led an incredibly rich political life.

But if there is a singular contribution that Karunanidhi, who has died in Chennai, made to Indias national politics, it was this: he deepened Indian democracy in ways that made it truly representative, and truly respectful and accommodative of Indias regional, linguistic and social diversity.

Karunanidhi was among the principal political players who ensured Indian democracy took into account the voice of the South. He ensured that it took into account the voice of the underprivileged communities by making social justice a political plank and its intersection with caste a key principle of political practice.

Karunanidhi, with colleagues from a similar political tradition, ensured that the Indian state would respect linguistic diversity. He ensured that Indian federalism would truly respect states and pioneered advocacy of greater power to the states.

And he ensured that it was not just national parties but also regional entities like his which would be a significant-- often the swing player-- in central politics, forming and toppling government, shaping and undoing policies.

Here is how.

Karunanidhi emerged from a political tradition in the erstwhile Madras Presidency that was both sceptical of the pan-India project of the Indian National Congress , viewing it as an effort to impose Northern hegemony, and the Brahmanical nature of the local elite in the region. This may appear like distant history now, but it is a testament to the long arc of Indian history that Karunanidhi witnessed and shaped that this was the setting of his political socialisation.

The Congress was led by visionaries like Jawaharlal Nehru. But there was no doubt that he was, at times, oblivious to grievances that were driven by identity, be it language or caste. His successors in the party and government were even more so. And that is what Karunanidhi, and his mentors in politics highlighted.

In 1965, when there was an attempt to impose Hindi as the sole official language of the state, it was the DMK which was at the forefront of protests. The centre had to backtrack. At a fundamental level, it meant that the effort to impose a single language on a country of such linguistic diversity would not succeed. At a more immediate political level, it opened the doors for Karunanidhi to eventually take over as the states CM later in the 1960s.

Karunanidhi (extreme right) stands with Vishwanath Pratap Singh, NT Rama Rao, and Prafulla Mahanta at a meeting of the National Front in November 1989. (SN Sinha/ HT Archive)

Tamil Nadu, because of leaders like Karunanidhi, also embarked on a radical affirmative action programme which went far beyond Indian constitutional scheme of reservations only for Dalits and tribals. This empowered other backward communities, laid the path for their upward mobility in education, government jobs and industry, gave them more political power and in a way showed the way for the rest of the country.

The state also embarked on a radical social welfare programme although, to be fair, this was initiated by the Congres K. Kamaraj and continued by Karunanidhis successors. But his role in institutionalising welfare programmes was remarkable too.

Karunanidhi may not have achieved this alone. But his contribution in making India sensitive to caste and language-driven differences, and thus the necessity of accommodating them, was crucial.

Making Indian federalism stronger

The first two decades of the Indian federal arrangement saw the Congress party rule the centre and almost all the states. This meant that both the constitutional scheme, which favoured the centre, and the political balance of power, which was stacked in favour of the Congress high command, would give states a weaker say than they would have liked.

The turning point was 1967. Across northern India, Congress lost election. But the alternative coalitions did not last. It was in Tamil Nadu that not only did DMK win, it had the confidence to seek and wrest more power from the centre. Karunanidhi set up a committee to suggest how to make states more autonomous. The Tamil Nadu assembly became the first state legislature in the country to pass a resolution for autonomy to states in 1974.

The formal granting of autonomy may have never happened. But it showed the way to other chief ministers and set a trend in Indian politics. As regional parties gained strength, even if the constitution remained partial to the centre, the states would seek more powers and the centre would gradually weaken.

Karunanidhi with Orissa leader Biju Patnaik and West Bengals Jyoti Basu at a meeting of the Inter State Council in Delhi in October 1990. (HT archive photo)

Shaping the centre

Karunanidhi was also among the first regional leaders who decided that he would not just be comfortable in his state --but would exercise a say at the centre. He backed Indira Gandhis bank nationalisation move, but opposed the emergency and paid a price for it with his government dismissed and DMK activists dealt with brutally.

He played a major role in the formation of the National Front government and provided a source of support to VP Singh as he decided to implement the Mandal Commission recommendations on reservations to other backward classes.

Karunanidhis party was a force in the United Front government between 1996 and 1998, then the National Democratic Alliance from 1999 and seamlessly switched to the United Progressive Alliance after 2004. Many saw it as opportunism. But it also revealed a ruthlessly pragmatic streak in Karunanidhi that had probably helped him survive.

Take another example of this pragmatism. The United Font government fell in 1998 because the Congress wanted I K Gujral to get rid of Karunanidhi after the Jain Commission implicated DMK in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination. Six years later, Karunanidhi and Sonia Gandhi were working together to form the United Progressive Alliance.

Indeed, the Tamil issue in Sri Lanka was a cause Karunanidhi backed with passion for a long time - which complicated Indian foreign policy immensely but also showed him to be a man who believed that states must have a say in shaping foreign policy. This is a trend that has been carried forward on other issues by other chief ministers.

Karunanidhis life spanned the course of modern Indian political history. He deepened Indian democracy by forcing the polity to respect and shape policies taking into account Indias diversity. And that strengthened the Indian nation. Karunanidhi showed how you could be a welfarist, a champion of the poor and underprivileged, a pragmatic power politician, a reformer and administrator, and most importantly, both a Tamil nationalist and Indian nationalist all together.
A woman and her three minor daughters were found murdered in Uttar Pradeshs Etawah city on Tuesday and appeared to have been strangled, police said.

People found two girls dead and bloodied on a road at around around 5.30 am, confirming they had been thrown off the fourth floor of the building where they lived in Kanshiram Colony in Civil Lines. A third girl was breathing faintly but died within 10 minutes after being taken to a hospital.

The mother was found dead in the unlocked house where wheat flour and utensils were scattered about, suggesting she resisted her attackers, police said. The Dalit womans husband, who is a painter, told police he hadnt returned home after leaving for work on Monday.

Ashok Tripathi, senior superintendent of police for Etawah, said the husband was questioned and taken into custody.

Neighbours didnt hear or notice anything unusual despite rooms in the building stacked closely. Certain leads indicate that the women and kids were murdered to take revenge, said a police investigator.

More than one person can be involved in the murder. We are questioning suspects and working on the leads available, Alok Singh, Inspector General of Police, Kanpur.

Police sources autopsy reports will establish if the women and girls were sexually assaulted.
The Uttar Pradesh government late on Tuesday night recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged sex racket run by a shelter home in Deoria.

A special investigation team (SIT) has also been constituted to check tampering of evidence, as well as collect evidence, till the CBI takes over the case of sexual abuse of girls of the shelter home  Maa Vindhyavasini Mahila and Balika Sanrakshan Grih. The Special Task Force (STF) will assist SIT in collecting evidence, he said.

Addressing a press conference, chief minister Yogi Adityanath said a two-member committee, constituted by the state government to probe the working of the shelter home, submitted its report on Tuesday.

Yogi said the shelter home was being run by the NGO since 2009 and large grants were given to it during the Samajwadi Party government. The SP government had appointed members of the district child welfare committee, who were close to people in power, he added.

Yogi said the members of the child welfare committee were also involved in the racket. The involvement of the previous governments in the shelter home racket has come to light. The state government has decided to recommend a CBI probe into the working of the shelter home so that everything becomes crystal clear, he said.

The CM said that after the CBI detected large-scale irregularities in the Sachal Palna Griha scheme run by NGOs in different districts in 2016, the state government cancelled the recognition of the Deoria shelter home. The district administration was directed to close down the home and shift the children to another accommodation. But no action was taken by the district administration, he said.

The sex racket was being run by the shelter home since the time of earlier governments. Now, due to the action taken by the BJP government, the fact has come to light and the people running the shelter home have been arrested, he said.

He said ADG, Gorakhpur zone, Dava Sherpa will probe into the role of the Deoria police. FIR was lodged against the NGO on July 30 for running the shelter home illegally, yet no action was taken by the district police, the CM said.

Yogi said the girls staying at Deoria shelter home will be shifted to a shelter home in Varanasi. The boys will also be shifted to another accommodation, he added.
My nephew was cordial and good in studies. He would hit it off with strangers, without having any airs about his position in the Army, recollected Pratap Rane, uncle of Army Major Kaustubh Prakashkumar Rane, 29, who was killed while foiling an infiltration bid in Gurez of north Kashmir on Monday night. Major Rane would call at least once a week and talk to his parents and wife, despite poor connectivity at Gurez, said his uncle.

A pall of gloom descended Sheetal Nagar in Mira Road on Tuesday when residents learnt about the martyrdom of their braveheart. His body will arrive here on Wednesday morning, and the final rites will take place in the evening.

Rane and three soldiers killed two of the eight terrorists, while the rest managed to sneak to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir across the Line of Control (LoC). Rane, from the Garhwal Rifles, was leading the charge against the terrorists. He was awarded with the Sena Medal (Gallantry) by President Ram Nath Kovind on the 69th Republic Day. Rane is survived by his parents, wife and two-and-a-half-year-old son.

Native of Vaibhavwadi in Sindhudurg district, his family has been living on the first floor of the Hiral Sagar building at Sheetal Nagar for the past 30 years. The Major was the only son of his parents.

Ranes father Prakashkumar retired from a private firm, while mother, Jyoti, used to teach at a private school. The majors wife, Kanika, and son were on their way to Mira Road from Vaibhavwadi.

After completing his training from Chennai, he was first posted in Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir in 2011. He was elevated to majors position during his stint in the hostile terrains of Ladakh in January this year.

He had studied at Holy Cross School in Sheetal Nagar and completed his BCA from Shailendra College, Dahisar.

We are coordinating with the Garhwal Rifles to get my nephews body, said Majors uncle Pratap
The Maharashtra fisheries department on Monday issued an advisory alerting the people to a surge in venomous bluebottles along the Mumbai coastline. By early the next morning, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had put up banners warning people against walking barefoot along the citys beaches.

While there is no official record to buttress their claim, lifeguards and marine experts have reported over 100 bluebottle stings on the Girgaum Chowpatty, Aksa, Juhu, and Versova beaches since last Friday.

A BMC notice advising against walking barefoot on the beach, among other things, in Mumbai. (HT Photo)

Bluebottles, also known as the Portuguese man o war, are pelagic creatures found on the sandy shores of Mumbai during the monsoon. Measuring up to six inches, they are known to deliver a lethal sting that causes burning pain and welts accompanied by muscle weakness.

In the advisory issued to citizens as well as the municipal corporation, we have spoken against walking barefoot on the beach  especially close to the shoreline. However, as a bluebottle sting is not fatal, people need not panic, said Rajendra Jadhav, joint commissioner of fisheries.

Experts from the Marine Life of Mumbai said while these creatures might appear to be lying dead on the shore, they could still sting on contact. The pain is unbearable because the bluebottles sting is venomous, said marine expert Pradip Patade.

He dispelled the popular notion that vinegar can alleviate the burning sensations caused by a bluebottle sting. An advisory issued by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute last month stated that rather than applying vinegar, one must gently wash the affected area with sea water and visit the nearest government hospital, Patade said.

People stung by bluebottles are also advised to not touch or rub the affected area, and instead wash it with warm water.
The Ghaziabad police late Monday arrested a 32-year-old cab driver, the prime suspect in the sexual assault and murder case of a five-year-old girl in Ghaziabad.

The girl, who went missing around 8pm on August 2, was smothered to death and her body stuffed into a plastic bag, which was left on the roof of her uncles house, adjacent to her own, in Khoda on August 4.

The girls body was found in a decomposed state. Her legs had contusion while there were injury marks on her lips. Clothes on her lower body were not in order, a police officer had said.

The police said cab driver Deepak, from Agra, was a tenant of the girls father. The accused was involved in the search for the missing girl since the night of August 2. The bag was recovered on August 4 by which time he had fled.

Our teams have picked up Deepak and he was formally arrested on Monday night. He has accepted his involvement in the crime. His questioning will reveal further details, Vaibhav Krishna, senior superintendent of police, Ghaziabad, said.

Police sources said the cab driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crime.

The post-mortem reports of the girl, a LKG student, concluded that she died of smothering while the police on the basis of the findings of the report, added IPC Section for rape and provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act to the FIR.

The police also sections of abduction, murder and destruction of evidence to the investigation.

A series of forensic examination of girls house had led police conclude that the body was never taken out of the house and blood along with other biological material were found in different parts of her house.

The Ghaziabad police, which reconstructed the crime scene last night, found bloodstains on the floor and the walls where Deepak was living. They also found a bedsheet with bloodstains bundled in a corner of the roof.

In another case, related to the murder of nine-year-old boy in Muradnagar, the police have added IPC section of 377 (unnatural sex) to the ongoing investigation.

The body of the boy was discovered from the sugarcane fields near his house on the morning of August 4. The boy was found strangled and had several injury marks on his face and other body parts.

We have added the IPC Section 377 to the case investigation. The boy was subject to sexual assault before he was murdered. We have three to four suspects on our radar and our teams will soon work out the case. The suspects are known to boys family, Krishna said.
A 47-year-old man allegedly murdered his wife by repeatedly hitting her with a mortar and pestle before committing suicide on Sunday night, police said on Monday.

At their house in Greater Noida, police have recovered a suicide note, wherein the man stated that they had problems in their marriage.

The marital discord led him to kill his wife, the note reportedly said.

Police officials said residents of Galaxy Vega, the housing society where the couple lived, told them that the duo  Manisha Kohli and Girish Bhatnagar  had been married for nearly two years.

The suicide note mentioned that Manisha suspected her husband of having an extramarital affair and that the two would often argue over the issue. It led to Bhatnagar killing his wife by smashing her head with a mortar and pestle, said Akhilesh Tripathi, station house officer, Bisrakh police station.

Maintaining that they were alerted about the incident by Kohlis brother, police said the two were taken to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared them dead on arrival.

Superintendent of police (rural) Ashish Shrivastav said, Manishas brother was trying to call her for a while but was unable to get through to her. He even tried calling on the society intercom but there was no response from his sister. After a while, he contacted the nearest police post. The police team broke open the door of the flat and found the two bodies. While the woman was lying on the floor, Bhatnagar was found hanging from a ceiling fan.

Stating that the bodies have been sent for a postmortem examination, police said while Bhatnagar  who hailed from Indirapuram in Ghaziabad was self-employed, Manisha  who hailed from Delhi  was a homemaker.

The couple had no children, police said, adding that the womans family has not filed any formal complaint regarding the murder yet.

In a similar incident, 28-yearold Vasant Singh had allegedly murdered his 26-year-old wife, Neha Singh, at their residence in Sector 93 on the evening of August 2.

Although no suicide note was recovered from the spot, police suspected that the man had first beat up his wife in a fit of rage and then hanged himself since the two had some marital problems.
Food bill is estimated to be Rs 1,38,123 crore in 2018-19 against the actual expenditure of Rs 1,04,901 crore in 2017-18.

The ongoing measures being taken to cut food subsidy are not sufficient, the panel said in its 22nd report placed in Parliament.

New Delhi: A parliamentary panel on Monday asked the government to make vigorous efforts to explore new avenues to contain the rising food subsidy bill which is pegged at Rs 1,38,123 crore for the current financial year. The ongoing measures being taken to cut food subsidy are not sufficient, the panel said in its 22nd report placed in Parliament.

As per the provisions of the food law, the government sells 5 kg of highly subsidised grain per person, per month at a central issue price (CIP) of Rs 1-3 per kg via the public distribution system (PDS), known as ration shops.

The required grain for the subsidised sale via PDS are purchased by state-run Food Corporation of India (FCI) at an economic cost, which includes MSP and other charges.

The committee desire the government to have re-look at the widening gap between CIP and economic cost of wheat and rice vis-a-vis the increase in MSP of wheat and rice in order to contain, if not reduce the ever increasing food subsidy bill, the parliamentary standing committee on food, headed by JC Divakar Reddy, said in the report.

The committee is of the view that a saving of Rs 6,154 crore and Rs 9,153 crore during 2017-18 and 2018-19 respectively, due to imposition of GST is not sufficient achievement in containing food subsidy, the report said.

The panel noted that the minimum support price (MSP) of wheat and rice has been increased since 2004-05 but the CIP has not been revised since 2002. The MSP of wheat has increased from Rs 630 per quintal in 2004-05 to Rs 1,735 per quintal in 2018-19. Similarly, the MSP of paddy (common variety) has increased from Rs 560 per quintal to Rs 1,550 per quintal in 2017-18, it added.

The panel said that the amount of food subsidy released to FCI has been constantly increasing over the years even as the government has said it has taken measures to rationalise expenses on incidental to reduce the subsidy bill.

To reduce food bill, the government has introduced a policy of usage charges for packing of paddy. Further, all the expenses on procurement and distribution of grain are being switched over to PFMS platform mandated by the finance ministry, the report said.

Efforts for timely finalisation of audited accounts of state governments are also being pursued, it added.

The food bill is estimated to be Rs 1,38,123 crore in 2018-19 against the actual expenditure of Rs 1,04,901 crore in 2017-18.
The under-employment or unemployment of qualified nurses in Maharashtra appears to be one of the key issues that is driving civic bodies, such as the Pune municipal corporation (PMC), towards compelling small nursing homes to employ registered nurses.

As reported by Hindustan Times, the PMC has withheld the renewal of medical licences of small hospitals and nursing homes on grounds that their nurses are not registered with the Maharashtra nursing council. PMCs assistant health officer Dr Vaishali Jadhav, who is in-charge of licence renewal for hospitals, said she has been following the state government directives on the issue.

Ramling Mali, Maharashtra nursing councils (MNC) president, said that Maharashtra has 2.17 lakh nurses, but due to under-employment and poor salaries, many are unemployed.

Nurses without registrations work for meagre salaries of Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,000 per month with small hospitals. This is prevalent not only in general wards, but also in intensive care units or operation theatres where unregistered nurses are deputed. Hospitals will have to adhere to the new norms. If they have all the documents, they should immediately produce them without creating any pressure on the local body, said Mali.

He blamed the doctors and administrators of small hospitals for shying away from the critical issue of employing qualified nurses. They are fighting with the officials who are responsible for licence renewal, because they have hired under-qualified or unregistered nurses. They fail to understand that by doing so they are putting the public health in danger, he said.

Dr Jadhav said, I have been following the state directives which were issued to me early this year. After Indian Medical Associations (IMA) uproar against the norm and regulation on nurses registration with the Maharashtra cursing council for licence renewal, we got back to the state government and even sought an explanation and guidance, but in vain. No officer has reverted back to us and this is only leading to more miscommunication and misunderstanding between us and the hospitals in Pune.

Senior state government officials, such as Dr Pradeep Kumar Vyas, principal secretary, state health department and Dr Archana Patil, head of the family welfare bureau, did not respond when contacted by HT on the issue.

Dr Jadhav said when associations, like IMA and others, take this matter to other ministries and departments not concerned with health, it amounts to harassment.

She said that the PMC has received directives from the principal secretary of health and family welfare bureau head of Maharashtra. We will be happy if the doctors and hospitals approach the officials concerned who directed us to implement the regulations rather than meet any other minister or department who is not related to the topic, she said.

MNC president Ramling Mali who has extended his support to Dr Jadhav said that every nurse needs a registration with the council and every employer has to produce its nurses registration documents during the renewal of a hospitals licence.

The IMA has, however, maintained that the Bombay Nursing Home Registration (Amendment) Act, 2005, does not specify that small hospitals have to employ registered nurses. Also, this criteria was not applied in previous years during the renewal process, doctors with the IMA have said.

Dr Sanjay Patil, IMA hospital boards chairman, said, there is an acute scarcity of ANM (auxillary nurse midwife) and GNM (general nurses) in the state. Also, there is no gazette on mandatory employment of registered nurses and therefore the matter cannot be enforced. He said that all these years the local bodies did not follow the state directives and were doing so only now, which was strange.

Dr Jadhav needs to understand the plight of small nursing homes and should go easy on them this year, Patil urged.

PMC health dept. ignores Maharashtra ministers directive

Doctors from small nursing homes and hospitals in the city are perturbed by the Pune municipal corporation health departments refusal to take note of a written directive from the state urban development minister Dr Ranjeet Patil with regards to the issue of pending renewal of hospital licences.

On April 25, an IMA (Indian Medical Association  Pune chapter) delegation met Dr Ranjeet Patil explaining that the PMCs demand that only registered nurses should be employed by small hospitals, was unreasonable as it was not specified even under the Bombay Nursing Home Registration (Amendment) Act, 2005.

During the meeting, we put forth our concerns about the delay in the process of licence renewal of hospitals due to additional documents being sought by the PMC. These additional documents include qualification of nurses and whether they are registered with the nursing council, Dr Sanjay Patil, chairman of IMAs hospital board of India (Pune chapter) had told this paper in an interview.

He said the minister had asked the PMC officials concerned to abide by the Bombay Nursing Home Act and expedite the process, which, however, has not happened.

In his letter dated May 22, the minister had directed the PMCs health department to follow the existing norms for issuing licences to the hospitals. The matter about the employment of registered nurses relates to the public health department of Maharashtra government and may be referred to the department for necessary guidance, Dr Patil had said in his directive.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) rebels led by sacked leader of opposition (LoP) Sukhpal Singh Khaira got a shot in the arm on Monday with one more party MLA joining their ranks.

Garhshankar legislator Jai Krishan Singh Rodi announced his support to the dissident group, accusing the partys central leadership of lending an ear to backbiters and neglecting the voice of the state leaders. His support has taken the tally of MLAs in the rebel camp to eight of a total of 20 party legislators in Punjab.

Besides Khaira, the other dissident MLAs are Kanwar Sandhu (Kharar), Nazar Singh Manshahia (Mansa), Jagtar Singh Hissowal (Raikot), Jagdev Singh Kamalu (Maur), Pirmal Singh (Bhadaur) and Master Baldev Singh (Jaitu).

The Garhshankar MLA was among the eight party legislators who spoke out in support of Khaira on July 26 after his unceremonious removal from the post of leader of opposition in the assembly, but he was missing from the volunteers convention held by the dissident camp in Bathinda in which they declared the state unit autonomous.

Khaira group will not break AAP

Rodi, who had rejoined the group, said he was assured by Khaira and other legislators that they will not break the AAP or join any other party.

I am a fan of Arvind Kejriwal (AAP national convener and Delhi chief minister) and his ideals, but the problem is our voice is not being heard. Durgesh Pathak and Garry Birring should not take decisions related to the Punjab unit, he told reporters at a press conference in presence of Khaira, Sandhu and some other party leaders.

Pathak is member of AAPs political affairs committee whereas Birring is in-charge of organisation building in the state unit.

Rodi said he, along with some other MLAs, had tried to resolve the crisis by facilitating talks but their efforts did not yield any result. Kejriwal either does not want to hear our voice or the mediators are not presenting the true picture to him. Sisodia (Delhi deputy CM Manish) also did not listen to us but only gave assurance that everything will be okay, he said on being asked whether the national convener was aware of the happenings in the state unit.

3-4 being stopped from joining:Sandhu

Reiterating that Kejriwal and Sisodia were still their leaders, Sandhu claimed that three to four other MLAs wanted to join their group but were being stopped by people such as Pathak who were responsible for the partys defeat in the state elections. He said they had got unconfirmed information from some volunteers that (Sangrur MP) Bhagwant Mann was also among those who were trying to stop legislators from joining them. Khaira said their fight was not for any individual or position, but for the state units autonomy and the interests of Punjab. Punjabis want to have the right to take their decisions in the party. The days of decisions being imposed are gone, he insisted.

He announced that the first district-level volunteers convention will be organised in the Garhshankar constituency on August 11.

The dissident group has also announced a conference at Isru village in Ludhiana to pay homage to Shaheed Karnail Singh Isru on August 15 and a volunteers meet in Gurdaspur on August 26. The strategy appears to be to match the AAP leadership event for event as the state unit co-president Balbir Singh had on Saturday made public the partys plan to hold a conference at Isru and another meeting at Baba Bakala on Rakkhad Punya on August 26.

Later, Khaira also claimed that talks were on between the Congress and the AAP for seat-sharing for the 2019 parliamentary polls with former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh playing an active role.

The AAP may be given one or two seats with the Congress contesting the rest. I have confirmed information on this, he claimed. Last week, AAP leader and new leader of opposition Harpal Singh Cheema had categorically denied any talk of alliance between the two parties.
The unprecedented protests by the students demanding better road safety laws in Bangladesh on Tuesday fizzled out, with thousands of agitators returning to their classes after a nine-day-long stir that paralysed the country and left over 150 people injured in clashes with riot police.

The agitation prompted prime minister Sheikh Hasinas cabinet to approve a tougher transport law and launch a crackdown on reckless driving.

At the height of the protest, students were seen managing Dhakas notorious traffic and checking whether drivers of the cars and buses have valid licences and proof of roadworthiness of their vehicles.

Thousands of students of schools, colleges and universities took to the street on July 29, demanding strict implementation of road safety rules, following the death of two teenage students - a boy and a girl - by a speeding bus.

The accident took place when two buses were racing to pick up passengers on Dhakas main Airport Road and triggered widespread anger initially on social media and then led to a wave protests.

Witnesses said Dhaka, the city of 18 million people, witnessed usual traffic movements with public transport operators resuming their services.

The number of buses is less than usual but they have returned to the street... I came to work on a bus after eight days, a private firm employee in Dhakas Motijheel commercial district said.

Most of the schools in the Bangladesh capital reopened today after protesting students withdrew from the street.

A teacher of the Dhakas Milestone School said: We have resumed our classes today with normal student attendance.

Authorities also claimed that students have returned to their classes and every thing was normal.

Today everything is normal. Students have returned to their classes, head of Bangladeshs secondary and higher education authority Mahbubur Rahman said.

So far, there is no news of protests from any university, he said, adding that the authorities have shut down two universities in an effort to quell the protests.

Meanwhile, the education ministry has called a meeting of vice-chancellors of all private universities tomorrow to discuss clashes between police and students during the campaign.

The meeting will take place at the Dhaka International Mother Language Institute auditorium tomorrow, bdnews24.com said, quoting the Education Ministry.

Bangladesh Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid will chair the meeting, it said.

Despite being peaceful initially, the protests turned violent in the last three days. Buses were torched, hundreds of vehicles vandalised as activists from the ruling Awami Leagues student front and transport workers allegedly attacked demonstrators, journalists, photographers and even the US ambassadors car during the protests, leaving several injured.

On Sunday, some people, wearing helmets, attacked agitators and journalists covering the stir in Dhaka.

Police lobbed tear gas shells and rubber bullets, used water cannons and resorted to baton charge to disperse a procession brought out by the Dhaka University students.

The police action on the protesters invited criticism of the prime minister Sheikh Hasinas government from the United Nations, Washington and rights groups.

The government claimed that third party infiltrators intruded the protesters to fish in troubled waters spreading rumours to create instability.

We are now worried about your security as the perpetrators of arson attacks (in 2014-15) may stage sabotages... a quarter is out to catch fish in troubled water (and) the minor students, therefore, are under great threat, Hasina had said in a statement two days ago.

She said non-student saboteurs were using school uniforms and ID cards as the third force has appeared at the scene.

The police had arrested an actress, Nawshaba Ahmed, on Friday for allegedly spreading rumours to agitate the school students after she uploaded a post on the Facebook, claiming that four female students were taken hostage at the ruling Awami Leagues Dhanmandi office, which the protestors later called unfounded.

The police had also arrested well-known photographer and activist Shahidul Alam on charges of spreading false information about the protests and propaganda against the government. The high court on Tuesday scrapped a lower court order allowing police to interrogate him for seven days keeping him in their custody.

In a bid to calm down the protesting students, the Hasina government also promised to consider death penalty for deliberately causing road deaths and approved a new road safety law.

According to the Bangladesh Passengers Welfare Association, a private research group, at least 7,397 people--around 20 a day--died in road accidents in 2017, a 25 per cent increase from 2016. The World bank said more than 4,000 people die in accidents each year, giving Bangladesh a tag of being one of worlds worst accident prone nations.

Journalists on Tuesday gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest those involved in attacks on some of their colleagues covering the protests. At least, seven photojournalists, including an Associated Press (AP) photographer, were injured in attacks with sharp weapons, sticks and iron rods by helmets wearing youths at Dhanmandi, Jigatala and Science Laboratory areas.

Meanwhile, an alliance of left-leaning student organisations today announced demonstrations in all educational institutions across the country tomorrow in protest against attacks on students.

(This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.)
Officials of the Portuguese embassy in London interacted on Sunday with thousands of Goans who are in the United Kingdom with Portuguese passports and explained to them implications of Brexit for their continued stay in the country.

The officials responded to queries and distributed registration forms to the Goans, who acquired Portuguese nationality extended to people born before the liberation of the erstwhile Portuguese colony of Goa, Daman and Diu on December 19, 1961, and their two generations.

Joana Gaspar, consul-general of Portugal, was at the day-long UK Goan Festival in London, which was attended by a large number of people from areas such as Swindon, Leicester and Southall. A similar outreach event for Goans was held by the embassy in Southall on July 12.

Final rules for Portuguese and EU citizens in the UK are yet to be finalised in talks between London and Brussels. The UKs formal exit from EU is scheduled for March 29, 2019.

As per the current norms, the Goans were told they would have all rights of EU citizens until December 31, 2020. From March 30, 2019 and until December 31, 2020, they will be required to apply for settled or pre-settled status to the UK Home Office.

There are indications of lesser number of Goans with Portuguese passports coming to the UK in recent months due to some anxiety over Brexits implications.

Nearly 10,000 people revelled at the annual festival to the accompaniment of food, raffles, music bands  such as Tidal Wave  from Goa and elsewhere performing numbers in Konkani, among other languages. the festival began with a mass by Rev Patrick Lynch of Southwark.

Civil servant Jaime Barreto and others met representatives of Air-India during the festival, and urged them to launch a direct flight between London and Goa. He said the officials responded positively, adding that the demand would be conveyed to the airlines management.

Ravi Vaz, president of the 1966-established Goan Association (UK), said: We have been attracting Goans from not only the UK but also Europe and the rest of the world. Our mission is to promote Konkani, our culture and heritage, especially among the youth.
China said on Monday that it has tested a hypersonic aircraft that rides its own shock waves, can carry nuclear bombs and penetrate missile defence systems

The first test flight of Starry Sky-2--Xingkong-2 in Chinese--was carried out successfully at an undisclosed location in a remote part of northwest China, the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics was quoted as saying by the state media.

The public announcement indicates that China has already achieved a degree of technological prowess with aircraft. Hypersonic vehicles move at least at five times the speed of sound.

The aircraft--also called the waverider--touched speeds of 7,344 km per hour, said Xinhua, the official news agency, in a report.

A waverider is a hypersonic aircraft that has a wedge-shaped fuselage designed to improve its supersonic lift-to-drag ratio by using the shock waves generated by its own flight as a lifting force, the report said.

During the independent flight, the test craft maintained ultrafast speeds above Mach 5.5 for more than 400 seconds and reached 7,344 kmph, it said.

The aircraft flew at an altitude of 30 km, carried out a number of manoeuvres and tested a host of advanced technologies such as a domestically developed heat-balance thermal protection system.

Various parameters were proved and the flight vehicle was fully recovered, which marks the successful launch of Xingkong-2 and the first flight of a Chinese waverider, according to the statement.

The current generation of anti-missile defense systems is mainly designed to intercept cruise and ballistic missiles, which are either slower or easier to predict, making them possible to intercept, military expert Song Zhongping told the state-controlled Global Times.

But the trajectory of a waverider is relatively unpredictable in the glide and it flies so fast that it poses an extreme challenge to current anti-missile defense systems, Song said.

The test showed that China is advancing shoulder to shoulder with the US and Russia, Song said.

China said on Monday that it has tested a hypersonic aircraft that rides its own shock waves, can carry nuclear bombs and penetrate missile defence systems

The first test flight of Starry Sky-2--Xingkong-2 in Chinese--was carried out successfully at an undisclosed location in a remote part of northwest China, the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics was quoted as saying by the state media.

The public announcement indicates that China has already achieved a degree of technological prowess with aircraft. Hypersonic vehicles move at least at five times the speed of sound.

The aircraft--also called the waverider--touched speeds of 7,344 km per hour, said Xinhua, the official news agency, in a report.

A waverider is a hypersonic aircraft that has a wedge-shaped fuselage designed to improve its supersonic lift-to-drag ratio by using the shock waves generated by its own flight as a lifting force, the report said.

During the independent flight, the test craft maintained ultrafast speeds above Mach 5.5 for more than 400 seconds and reached 7,344 kmph, it said.

The aircraft flew at an altitude of 30 km, carried out a number of manoeuvres and tested a host of advanced technologies such as a domestically developed heat-balance thermal protection system.

Various parameters were proved and the flight vehicle was fully recovered, which marks the successful launch of Xingkong-2 and the first flight of a Chinese waverider, according to the statement.

The current generation of anti-missile defense systems is mainly designed to intercept cruise and ballistic missiles, which are either slower or easier to predict, making them possible to intercept, military expert Song Zhongping told the state-controlled Global Times.

But the trajectory of a waverider is relatively unpredictable in the glide and it flies so fast that it poses an extreme challenge to current anti-missile defense systems, Song said.

The test showed that China is advancing shoulder to shoulder with the US and Russia, Song said.
An Indian-origin man has pleaded guilty to taking $ 2.5 million in bribes and kickbacks from companies seeking contracts to work on energy saving projects in the US government buildings.

Bhaskar Patel, 67, of Windermere, Florida, received the bribes and kickbacks when he served as a senior project manager for Schneider Electric Building Americas, based in Andover, Massachusetts.

He was responsible for obtaining bids from subcontractors and recommending for selection the subcontractors that would be awarded a contract under an energy saving project.

The payments were associated with federal energy savings performance contracts issued to Schneider Electric by various federal agencies from June 6, 2011, to April 19, 2016.

He pleaded guilty on Monday in federal court in Rutland to two felony charges, each carrying maximum penalties of 10 years in prison. He remains free on his personal recognizance pending a December 7 sentencing hearing.

Judge Geoffrey Crawford said federal probation officials would conduct a pre-sentence investigation before he formally hands down a sentence for Patel.

As part of a plea agreement, federal prosecutors filed a notice of forfeiture totalling $ 2,536,119 from Patel, VT Digger, a Vermont news portal, reported.

The plea agreement states that prosecutors have agreed to reduce the forfeiture amount to $ 1.75 million if Patel pays $ 950,000 on or before his sentencing.

He also faces fines of up to $ 5,072,238.38, or twice his ill-gotten gains.

Among the items federal prosecutors are seeking to seize as part of the forfeiture are his property in Windermere; a 2012 Mercedes-Benz E Class E350 vehicle; a watch; six rings; 43 earrings; 10 bracelets; 18 bangles; six pendants, USD 35,700 in Indian rupees; and a timeshare property in Hilton Head, South Carolina, the portal reported.

Assistant US Attorney Abigail Averbach, a prosecutor in the case, said charges against other individuals involved in the case are possible, though she declined to say who those people might be.

Court records do indicate that in some cases Patel directed those paying him to write checks to his adult son and daughter. His children are only identified in court papers as JP and FP.

David Smith, a spokesman for Schneider Electric, said after the hearing that Patel was terminated as soon as the allegations of wrongdoing came to light.

Patels scheme came to light when law enforcement received information that he had altered and falsified a bid document submitted to Schneider Electric by a Vermont subcontractor bidding for work on an energy savings project at the White River Junction VA facility, according to court records.
Finding it difficult to defend the Trump administrations policies as a diplomat especially over race and immigration, Sri Preston Kulkarni last December decided to quit his dream job at the US state department to run for Congress.

Kulkarni, whose family traces its roots to Maharashtra and Karnataka, on his website said he spent his career trying to reduce conflict in other countries...but right now hostility and conflict are being inflamed in our own country through the politics of anger and demagoguery.

I have worked under Democratic and Republican administrations before, but the current situation is different and should concern all Americans of conscience, he said on his website.

After quitting his job, Kulkarni announced that he will run for the 22nd Congressional District of Texas, to be part of the policy making, and not implementing them.

Six months later, he won the Democratic primary and is pitching for a tough battle against five-term Republican incumbent Pete Olson.

There is a little bit of nervousness on the other side about (my) campaign, Kulkarni told PTI.

Kulkarnis family immigrated to the US in 1969 to Louisiana, where he was born in 1978. Soon thereafter they moved to Houston, where Kulkarni grew.

After completing his college, he joined the US foreign service in 2003 and has worked in various capacities in both inside the US and overseas. This summer he was posted for the important position of the spokesperson of the US Embassy in New Delhi.

Being an Indian-American, representing the US was very important, he said.

But I think the 2016 election for me actually drove home as some of these issues are still unresolved for America, he said.

During that election, there was so much anti-immigrant sentiment being spread that it was a real blow to me personally. When I came back to the State Department, I said (to myself) Im just going to continue to be a professional and Im going to do this job, he said.

But, there were two incidents that changed his mind and made him feel that he couldnt continue in the State Department.

One was the Charlottesville rally one year ago where we had Nazis in the street screaming about white supremacy and my government could not make a clear distinction. Thats absolutely morally unequivocally awful. I was asked to explain this when I was overseas. Why is it that theyre very fine people who were Nazis and why is it that both sides are the same? I couldnt do that, Kulkarni said.

At the rally last summer, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the streets before a car plowed into a crowd, killing 32-year-old counterprotester.

The second was the Roy Moore campaign, Kulkarni recollected.

He was molesting 14-year-old girls and he said that our families are stronger when we had slavery and that Muslims shouldnt be able to hold a public office in the United States. To me thats just beyond whats acceptable in the kind of democracy and the kind of society that I believe in, he said.

Moore was the Republican nominee in the 2017 US Senate special election in Alabama to fill the seat vacated by Jeff Sessions. Moore, who had faced multiple allegations of sexual assault during his campaign was backed by president Donald Trump. Later he lost to Democratic candidate Doug Jones.

At the time of these incidents, Kulkarni was in Jamaica on a temporary assignment. His next posting was at the US Embassy in New Delhi as its spokesperson. 

I decided that I was going to resign to come back home and run for office. Because I think we need to stand up against this idea that we should be divided up by, by race, by ethnicity, and that some people are less American than other people. Thats when I started the campaign, Kulkarni said.

Kulkarni resigned from the foreign service in December.

Kulkarni says that its not about just one person, Trump as an individual.

It is more about these ideas that we should be divided against each other, Muslim versus Hindu or Muslim or Christian or Hindu versus Christian or black versus white or Asian versus white. That ideas are the more dangerous thing than a person, he said.

He said the social fabric of America was being torn apart and Americans were blaming immigrants for everything.

If the fight is against illegal immigrants, then why H-1B programme is being threatened. Why are we trying to reduce legal immigration and family reunification? he asked.

It doesnt have to do with illegal immigration. That has to do with anti-immigrant sentiment. The anti-immigrant sentiment is something that should worry all of us because we are an immigrant country and honestly, without immigrants, most of our fortune 500 companies wouldnt be here, Kulkarni said.

But whenever any group is discriminated against, its a threat to all minority groups. If a Muslim is being discriminated against, it still affects me as a Hindu, Kulkarni said.

Now running an effective campaign, Kulkarni, pollsters say has considerably reduced the poll numbers against his rival Olson, who is considered to be a friend of India in the US Congress.

Kulkarni, who is a cousin of BJP member of Parliament Poonam Mahajan, hopes that the entire community would come out to vote in November.

(This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.)
Celebrated Indian photographer, the late Raghubir Singh, is being recognised with a major showing at Torontos leading museum. But just as his work is on display, another exhibit is running concurrently, this one triggered by allegations of sexual harassment by the master lensman in the 1990s.

Modernism on the Ganges: Raghubir Singh Photographs is a summer standout at the Royal Ontario Museum or ROM. Organised by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York late last year, the retrospective has now travelled to Canadas largest city.

Deepali Dewan, who curated the exhibit for ROM, told Hindustan Times in an email, Raghubir Singh made a global impact on the history of photography, as an innovative colour photographer, and yet, as an artist from India, he wasnt included in this history which tends to be dominated by Western photographers. So by presenting this exhibition at the ROM, we are making an intervention into that history. As well, we wanted to showcase a vision of modern India that reflected its complexity, as captured in Singhs photographs, and that didnt reproduce touristic or ethnographic tropes.

But also travelling along from New York is the shadow cast by accusations of what may have been a negative aspect of that personality. As the exhibit was held there in 2017, city-based artist Jaishri Abichandani alleged she had been raped by Singh in the 1990s, while she was serving as his assistant. That lead to protests, and precipitated the #MeToo and The Arts exhibit at ROM, which is free to public and on display near the entrance to the museum.

Raghubir Singhs capture titled Catching the Breeze. Location: Hathod Village, Jaipur, Rajasthan, in 1975.

We decided that rather than cancel, we would continue with plans to host the exhibition, while at the same time addressing the issues of art in the #MeToo era raised by the allegation, Dewan explained.

Asked how his creativity will be viewed by visitors given the #MeToo context, Dewan said, Whether one can appreciate an artwork after learning more about an artist is a personal decision.

Singh passed away in 1999, and this allegations come nearly 20 years after his death. However, it is believed that Abichandani had communicated her traumatic experience to those close to her at or near the time the alleged incidents of rape occurred. But fearful of repercussions from a figure of such stature, she never filed an official complaint. She did not respond to an email seeking comment on this matter.

The collection featuring Singhs work, spanning from the 1960s to the 1990s, captures a time when India was going through profound change, Dewan said.

Working in colour, at a time when they were often dismissed a kitsch or commercial, Singhs images reflect both urban and rural spaces and the unique tension or co-existence of traditional ways of life and modern technology, she said.

His artistic legacy is very visible at the ROM special exhibit, but as the accompanying display evidences, it is now haunted by the spirit of the #MeToo movement.
Sindhi artist Qutub Rind was killed under false charges of blasphemy in Lahore, his family has said, accusing local police of being unwilling to act in the matter.

Gul Beg Rind told local media that his nephew Qutub, a National College of Art graduate, along with his two children, came to Lahore on July 17 for an art show.

Qutub had rented out an apartment but had an altercation with the landlord that day, he said, adding Later at night, the landlord, along with two of his accomplices, came to the house and broke Rinds arms, legs and then pushed him from the third floor of the building, he added.

Rind later passed away in the hospital due to severe head injuries, according to a medical report.

A friend of Qutub, Hamid Ali, who had registered an FIR, claimed that the suspects confessed to killing Rind for committing blasphemy. As soon as police caught the suspects, they confessed, but changed their statements later, he said.

Another friend of Rind said that he was a socio-political thinker and a painter. His work was against caste system and tribal wars, he said.

Police said claims that the victim was murdered for allegedly committing blasphemy are not true, adding that it was a dispute over payment of rent.

Since 1990, vigilantes have been accused of murdering 65 people tied to blasphemy, according to research compiled by Pakistani think tank, Centre for Research and Security Studies.

On April 13, 2017, Mashal Khan, a 23-year-old student at the Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, was lynched by a mob riled up by allegations of blasphemy. As details of the bone-chilling event, including a video recording of the event, were reported, a different picture started to emerge  one that had nothing to do with blasphemy.

While the state has never executed anyone under blasphemy laws, mere allegations have prompted mob violence and lynchings.
The legal woes of the once powerful Sharif family is mounting with a Pakistani anti-corruption court on Tuesday declaring PML-N President Shahbaz Sharifs son-in-law a proclaimed absconder in a graft case.

Former prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif is currently in jail after an Accountability Court sentenced him, his daughter and son-in-law over the corrupt practices over the purchase of four luxury flats in London in the 1990s.

Sharif was ousted from his third term as prime minister by the Supreme Court last year following a corruption investigation stemming from the Panama Papers case.

Pakistans anti-corruption body has also summoned the beleaguered chief of the PML-N party and former Punjab chief minister Shehbaz Sharif to appear before it on August 20 in a housing scandal case.

Now, an accountability court in Lahore on Tuesday declared PML-N Presidents son-in-law, Imran Ali Yousaf, a proclaimed absconder on the request of National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

Yousaf is accused of receiving graft in excess of Rs 12 million from Ikram Naveed, the former CEO of the Punjab Power Development Company (PPDC), and is the subject of a NAB probe, Dawn newspaper reported.

He appeared before the NAB investigators in April but has since missed his scheduled hearings and is currently in London.

The bureau, which last month requested the interior ministry to extradite Yousaf via Interpol, today told the accountability court that warrant of arrest against the accused has been issued by NAB chairman.

As per IO (investigation officer), the accused has gone underground and is not traceable.

Following this, the bureau asked the court to declare Yousaf a proclaimed absconder  a request that was accepted, the report said.

Quoting a source, report said the then Punjab Chief Ministers son-in-law was also accused of getting Naveed appointed as PPDC CEO who allegedly committed massive corruption. The NAB is quizzing Yousaf on the information provided about him by Ikram Naveed.

The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) had already carried out a probe against Naveed and Yousaf in 2016. It declared Naveed guilty of embezzling Rs 450 million.

The ACE in its investigation found that Naveed had purchased 19 properties in his and his family members names and also unearthed his and his family members property worth over Rs 1 billion. The property has been attached and their bank accounts frozen, the report said.
The actor has finally addressed Chopras contentious exit from Bharat.

Though rumours have been doing the rounds that Priyanka Chopras abrupt decision to drop out of Bharat has left Salman Khan miffed, the actor has refrained from publically sharing his views on the matter, until now.

Addressing a press in Delhi for the promotion of his brother-in-law Aayush Sharmas debut film, Loveratri, Salman said, I am very happy for her. If we had known earlier that she had signed a big Hollywood film, we wouldnt have stopped her from leaving. We got to know at the eleventh hour, ten days before the shooting began, that she wanted to leave. We said, Of course, if you dont want to do it, dont do it. But honestly, we were given another reason then.

It has recently been announced that Priyanka will star alongside Chris Pratt in the upcoming Hollywood film Cowboy Ninja Viking. But Salmans comment indicates that perhaps the Bharat team was told a wedding was in the offing. Rumour has it that PC will tie the knot with boyfriend Nick Jonas later this year.

Whatever it is  her wedding, a Hollywood film, or the fact that she does not want to work with me, its her prerogative. We are really happy and supportive of her doing good work. If she doesnt want to work with me here, she can work with a top Hollywood actor and make our country proud, Khan rattled off in one breath.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali has rubbished reports that PC has also walked out of a film that she was supposed to do with him. Sanjay Leela Bhansali has a lot of love and regard for Priyanka Chopra, however, no project has been discussed, the spokesperson says.

And filmmaker Ujwal Chatterjee, whos making a film about Rabindranath Tagores love life, claims that PC has re-joined his film as an actress and producer after having previously quit it.

Only time will tell what this juggling act is all about.

 Sanskriti Media
Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insafs parliamentary committee on Monday officially named party chairman Imran Khan as their parliamentary leader and nominee for the next prime minister, prompting strong speculation that deputy chief Shah Mehmood Qureshi may be named speaker of the National Assembly.

If Qureshi is named speaker, it could pave the way for Khans close aide Shireen Mazari to become the countrys next foreign minister.

Geo News reported that the party will announce senior party leader Qureshi as their candidate for the post of National Assembly speaker. The channel added that Qureshi is not happy with the decision but Imran convinced him to take the post owing to his experience as a parliamentarian which puts him in a position to deal with the active opposition.

However, many insist that Mazari may not be named foreign minister as a number of countries have expressed their reservations over her competence in the past. As editor of an English language daily, Mazari had angered Western governments by printing highly speculative and defamatory stories in her paper. She is particularly vicious when it comes to the US and to India, one Western diplomat said.

Speaking to the media, Qureshi dismissed the reports. Our central media cell will inform you of such a decision. You (journalists) should not listen to such reports unless they are officially communicated, he said.

Earlier on Monday, Khan, addressing PTI leaders after his formal confirmation of his nomination, said: Today, I have been given the biggest of responsibilities... Today, the first phase of a 22-year-long struggle is complete. Today, God has given you a moral victory.

After 1970, this is the first time that the masses have defeated the political elite. This happens very rarely that in a two-party system a third once gets a chance.

Khan warned his fellow party leaders that they must not govern the traditional way. He said: There are challenges aplenty for the PTI government. The people do not expect us to govern the traditional way; we are viewed as different. If we do traditional politics then we would also fall prey to the public wrath.

Vowing to lead by example he said: I will make decision on merit and in the national interest, and will never ask you to do something that I wouldnt myself.

One hour every week I will give answers to the public  like it happens in England. We will also make the ministers answerable to the public in the truest sense.

Khan has also reportedly sent out invitations for his oath-taking ceremony as the 22nd prime minister of Pakistan.

Political parties aligned against PTI have announced that they are fielding their own candidate for prime minister in Parliament. The parties, including the PML-N, PPP, MMA, and ANP, have decided to field their own consensus candidates for the prime minister, speaker and deputy speaker slots in the National Assembly.

The PTI, for its part, has said it now has the requisite numbers needed to form a government in the Centre and in Punjab. PTIs seat tally in the National Assembly currently stands at 125 after the inclusion of independents, party spokesperson Fawad Chaudhry said, but did not mention when the required 137 seats would be in the partys favour.

He further claimed that the party has a majority in Punjab as well. We now have 186 seats in the Punjab Assembly, he said.
US President Donald Trump raised eyebrows by tweeting about the wildfires inaccurately, claiming there was not enough water to fight them.

California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized, Trump said.

It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading!

Fire authorities insisted on Monday that they have ample water supplies to fight Californias devastating wildfires, contrary to Trumps tweets.

Officials from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) and the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho, stressed that wild-land blazes are battled primarily by crews hacking away at dry brush with hand tools and bulldozers, not with water.

Yes, we have plenty of water, CalFire Chief Scott McLean said by telephone, adding that the two largest blazes in California this week - the Carr Fire and the Mendocino Complex Fire - were each ringed by at least three major reservoirs.

He said the tweets, after Trump on Sunday approved a federal disaster declaration requested by Governor Jerry Brown for the fires, sparked a barrage of media queries to CalFire.

The White House did not respond to requests to clarify Trumps tweets, and did not immediately respond when asked about Gleicks comments.

Neither McLean nor Jessica Gardetto, a spokeswoman for the Idaho-based fire agency, would address the tweets directly, but Gardetto said by telephone, Most wildfire suppression efforts involve firefighters and boots on the ground.

Twin blazes form Californias largest wildfire in history

Two blazes mercilessly charring northern California have grown so rapidly that they became the US states largest in recorded history on Monday, authorities said.

The River and Ranch fires, collectively dubbed the Mendocino Complex, have burned through 283,800 acres (114,850 hectares) -- an area nearly the size of the sprawling city of Los Angeles -- and are just 30% contained, according to state fire authority CalFire.

Today a higher pressure system brought warmer weather, drying, and strong winds to the region, CalFire said in an evening update.

Tonight fire crews will try to take advantage of the lower temperatures to increase suppression and hold current containment lines.

Embers smoulder along a hillside after the Ranch Fire, part of the Mendocino Complex Fire, burned though the area near Clearlake Oaks, California, on August 5. (AFP)

It was the second fire to break records in the fire-prone, most populous US state in as many years, following the Thomas Fire in December 2017, which stood at 281,893 acres.

Further north in the state, the deadly Carr Fire has scorched more than 164,400 acres of land since July 23, and killed another seven people along the way.

Its intensity was so great at one point, that it generated a tornado-like whirl of fire -- as well as its own weather system.

Authorities said it was triggered by the mechanical failure of a vehicle that caused sparks to fly in tinderbox-dry conditions.

The fire has razed more than 1,600 buildings, including some 1,000 homes, state officials say.

More than 14,000 firefighters were battling the blazes across the state.

Several thousand people have been evacuated as the fires swept across the state, although some have been given permission in recent days to return to their homes.

The wildfires are extremely fast, extremely aggressive, extremely dangerous, said Scott McLean, a deputy chief with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

Look how big it got, just in a matter of days... Look how fast this Mendocino Complex went up in ranking. That doesnt happen. That just doesnt happen.
PM Modi says it will empower OBCs across the country.

It was passed by the Lok Sabha on August 2, superseding the amendments earlier carried out by the Rajya Sabha.

New Delhi: The Parliament on Monday passed the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill 2017, seeking constitutional status for the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC). Prime Minister Narendra Modi described it as a historic moment and said it will contribute to the empowerment of the OBC communities across India.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which had attacked the opposition parties, in particular the Congress, after the bill had got stalled in the Upper House last year after opposition members urged the government to introduce some amendments, said the passage of the bill has proved the Modi governments committment to bring the OBC on the development path.

The bill was taken up in the Rajya Sabha where several members urged the government to make public the findings of the caste census and implement reservation accordingly.

It was passed by the Lok Sabha on August 2, superseding the amendments earlier carried out by the Rajya Sabha. The Upper House adopted the legislation along with the amendments made by the Lok Sabha, by 156 votes to nil. Over two-third majority of those present voted in favour of the bill, which is a necessity for amending the Constitution.

The Rajya Sabha had earlier passed the measure on July 31 last year, along with an amendment and sent it to the Lower House.

Replying to the debate on the bill, social justice and empowerment minister Thaawarchand Gehlot said it would help the backward classes fight atrocities and ensure quick justice to them. Referring to the suggestions by the opposition parties, he said the NCBC would have female representation.

The minister also assured that it would also not encroach upon the rights of state governments as they would have their own backward class commissions.

He said state governments had their own lists of castes of OBC people, while the Centre had its own. The NCBC would recommend only to the central government regarding inclusion or deletion of a particular caste in the list.
Supplier News

7 August 2018

Lightstone is a national real estate investor/developer with 28 hospitality properties nationwide. The company's current portfolio emphasizes select services hotels, branded by Marriott, Hilton, IHG, and Starwood. How big do you think its asset management team is?

"I am responsible for overseeing hotel performance across our 28-property REIT and I am always on a plane," said Marc Dober, vice president, asset management for Lightstone. "We buy and develop hotels to grow our business. Business is based on numbers; budget, revenue, expenses, EBIDTA. The only way we could efficiently manage our portfolio by the numbers as we grew was to automate data gathering, analysis and reporting. Last year we implemented a hospitality business intelligence system called Execuvue from Aptech Computer Systems. Today I have a staff of two and go over the numbers on my handheld while I'm traveling."

BI system replaces one full-time analyst

Dober has a handful of reports he evaluates first thing every morning, regardless of where he is. "Execuvue automatically gathers and analyzes data from our Hilton, IHG, Marriott and Starwood properties at night audit. I also review the latest STAR data on my mobile. The system gives me analysis and reporting within minutes to support our business decisions or answer questions on the fly with near real-time data," said Dober. "Execuvue replaces a full-time staff member and makes it possible to manage more efficiently with better information." Execuvue Hospitality Business Intelligence is an IBM Cognos-based ASP enterprise hospitality business intelligence application hosted at Aptech's secure data operations center.

Lightstone evaluates property performance based on brands and management companies. "We compare GOPs and other metrics from our hotels and Execuvue factors in monthly STAR numbers to help benchmark our management companies," said Dober. "A cloud-based BI system is very cost effective. It eliminates the need for hardware and servers and the physical system is secure off-site so I can focus on operating properties. The big plus for me is that I can access our data remotely in a mobile format if needed. This lets me review the reporting I need for my next meeting while I am traveling."

Lightstone is developing Moxy properties with Marriott in several markets. Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS), named Lightstone's Moxy Times Square as Development of the Year Select/Limited Service hotel for 2017. "We are currently developing 6 Moxys. These properties have a unique F&B reporting format. We worked with Aptech to create custom reporting and a data interface with our Moxy property point of sale systems," said Dober. The Moxy concept replaces the traditional room service model with The Pickup, a twist on the traditional grab-and-go concept. Bar Moxy is the social center of the hotel that offers guests and locals a co-working space during the day while transforming into a buzzing lounge at night.

"Aptech is a great technology partner for Lightstone. They helped us customize a report for several processes that may be unique to Lightstone's operation," said Dober. "We recently developed an 'on the books' report that looks at reservations for a specific period and compares it against the same period last year. This lets us predict performance more accurately and adjust our strategy as needed."

Aptech is the leading provider of hotel software for business intelligence, budgeting, and enterprise financial accounting. Click here for more on Aptech's products and services.

About Lightstone

Lightstone, founded by David Lichtenstein, is one of the largest and most diversified privately held real estate companies in the United States. Lightstone is active in 28 states across the country, developing, managing and investing in all sectors of the real estate market, including residential, hospitality, commercial, and retail. With over 176 existing properties, Lightstone's $3 billion portfolio currently includes over 6 million square feet of office, retail and industrial commercial properties, over 15,000 residential units, and 4,000 hotel keys. Lightstone also owns over 12,000 land lots across the country.

Headquartered in New York City, Lightstone continues to grow its development portfolio with approximately $2.3 billion currently under development in the residential and hospitality sectors spread across New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami.

About Aptech Computer Systems, Inc.

Aptech Computer Systems, Inc., based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is the only provider of a fully integrated enterprise accounting, business intelligence and planning ecosystem to the hospitality industry. All of its clients are companies like yours, which own or manage hotels. Its solutions help customers at both the corporate and property levels understand their financial and operational data for faster goal achievement.

The company is renowned for introducing business intelligence into the hotel industry, and offers a solid resource of hospitality professionals. Aptech is an IBM Software Value Plus partner and Premier Solution Provider, as well as a Prophix Premier Business Partner.

Incorporated in 1970, Aptech's state-of-the-art back office, true business intelligence and enterprise planning solutions are 100% hotel specific. Solutions include PVNG, Execuvue and Targetvue. Clients comprise over 3,500 properties - including large chains, multiple-property management companies and single-site hotels. Execuvue is registered to Aptech Computer Systems, Inc. All other trademarks are owned by their respective holders. For more information please visit www.aptech-inc.com.
If you haven't heard of Tobi Lou, you need to fix that right now. He's been killing everything he's released and his distinctive style is refreshing especially in the currently landscape of hip hop. Last time we had him on the site, he linked up with Smino for their collaboration, "Troop" back in March. Today, he delivers a new song and video called "Goaty."

Late last week, there were reports that someone let loose 100 goats in the streets of Boise, Idaho and it seems like Tobi Lou has claimed responsibility for it. Tobi Lou released his new song "Goaty" with an accompanying visual today that shows the rapper kickin' it on a farm with goats before letting them loose in the streets before the end of the video. The song is expected to be on Lou's forthcoming EP which drops this Friday.

Peep his new video and single below.

Quotable Lyrics

I don't even like to boast

But my baby girl so hard to

She ain't playin' with you hoes

I think she really a GOAT
Travis Scott's concerts can get pretty wild if you haven't noticed. The rapper constantly encourages his fans to mosh, crowd surf, stage dive and just rage during his sets. Unfortunately, this resulted in a severe injury for one of his fans. The rapper was sued by Kyle Green after the fan claimed that Scott incited mayhem during his concert in New York City which resulted in him allegedly getting shoved over the balcony and ultimately, causing him to be paralyzed. However, Scott is now accusing the security company that worked at the concert for the fan's injury.

According to The Blast, Travis Scott filed a counter-suit against the security company hired for the concert, The Bowery and Strike Protective Services. He claims that the securities recklessness and carelessness played a factor in Green becoming paralyzed from the severe injury that occurred at the NYC concert. Scott also placed the blame on Green as well. The Astroworld rapper claims the injuries Green sustained were his own fault due to the fact that he should've known the risks that came along with going to a Travis Scott concert.

Now, Travis Scott wants the case dismissed completely. He also makes is clear in the documents that he wants the security company and the venue to pay out the injured fan if he's awarded any damages from the lawsuit.
With the title being announced a good two years before its release, fans had a lot of time to imagine what Travis Scott's Astroworld would sound like. Often, like it the case of Drake's Views, that long period of expectation can work against reactions to the final product, but it seems that Travis' fans are more than happy with what they received last Friday, and according to Sickamore, the rapper's A&R, no time was wasted through the long journey to completion.

In a new interview with Rolling Stone, Sickamore, who was present in "every session," has shared some insight into the making of Astroworld. The conversation reveals the thought put into transitions, guest appearances, and the presence of Houston's history in the album. According to the A&R, if good kid M.A.A.D. city is a straight tangent of a narrative, Astroworld is a David Lynch film; unpredictable but always aesthetically uniform. Read some excerpts from the interview below.

On creating cohesion with the many features on the album:

The songs are laid out and the guys just do their parts. You walk into the studio, and theres a script there waiting for you. Travis knows what these guys do best. A lot of these guys went and took it to another notch  that James Blake feature is like, what the fuck. Stevie [Wonder] on the harmonica [on Stop Trying to Be God]. Frank [Ocean] going crazy on Carousel  youve never heard him like that, with some hard rapping. Theyve been cool for a long time; they did a couple ideas for the album.

We also put Swae Lee on songs back to back; the Weeknd on songs back to back [to add to the cohesion]. Thats not an accident.

On workshopping songs like Kanye and Dr. Dre:

With Travis process, hell do 50 sessions on one song. Thats the trick of great producers like Dr. Dre or Kanye [West]. Its not that theyre better at making music than other people. Its that they put more time into it. 10,000 hours into each song. Keep chipping away until the final second. We were mixing the album until Thursday. It came out Thursday night.

On honoring Houston:

RIP DJ Screw is pretty obvious. Big Hawk, a Houston artist, is on Sicko Mode. 5% Tint, thats Houston lingo;.Cant Say has Don Toliver, a local Houston artist; Yosemite was produced by a local Houston producer [June James]; Houstonfornication obviously; Coffee Bean is all about his trip back home to Houston. Almost every song has something dealing with Houston on it.

On Astroworld as a David Lynch film:

For this album, from Birds, we improved the transitions. A lot of classic albums, the transitions are really great. So we didnt want people to have to hit the skip button for this album. Well do it for you. Mike Dean, Travis, they really locked in to make sure it was really flowing from song to song. Its like a movie  a lot of the movie is in the editing, how its paced. There are different kind of films. Some films are straight plots  think of Kendrick Lamars good kid, m.A.A.d city, thats a straight narrative. It starts here; it ends here; everything in between is the heros journey. Travis is more like a David Lynch movie. Its dreamy; it goes in and out; he might pop up in different places. French New Wave, a Fellini film  in the way the plot is structured, its a different kind of film, and we want people to be in and out with us.

Read the full conversation at Rolling Stone.
Whether wed like to admit it or not, Travis Scott suffered from a sophomore slump. Creatively speaking, Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight was more off the cuff than any of Scotts previous efforts - mixtapes included - and marked a noticeable departure from his usual concept heavy approach. It was all aesthetic, leaning heavily on a star-studded cast of features. It saw Travis actively refining a style that would ultimately sputter to a halt on the following collab tape with Quavo. It never truly felt like an extension of the world-building on his debut.

Since his inception, Travis Scott has been propped up by industry giants and hidden gems alike; Mike Dean, Kanye West, WondaGurl on the boards since his very first tape, Owl Pharaoh, with a rotating cast of Atlantan producers and rappers joining him to make the follow up, Days Before Rodeo, his proper breakout. Following these tapes, Rodeo was an ambitious studio debut, with Scott unabashedly wielding his pointed influences (Kanye West, Kid Cudi, contemporaries such as Quavo of Migos, Young Thug), as a lightning rod for the youth, successfully drawing in a mainstream crowd to compliment the cult following garnered by Days Before and Owl Pharaoh.

Where contemporaries like Thug often make a lot out of little, Travis genius lies in his ability to reduce his endless well of resources into hits ready for public consumption. Whether hes grabbing Toro y Moi, The 1975, Justin Bieber, or Stevie Wonder, James Blake, Frank Ocean this time around, Travis ear almost always guides him to a captivating, if not entirely original, arrangement. In that sense, the faux-psychedelic intro to ASTROWORLD, STARGAZING, tries too hard to do what the following handful of tracks seem to achieve effortlessly, that is, create an aura of unpredictability rooted in a pure sense of wonder.

Ushered in with a few choice words from Dallas staple Big Tuck, CAROUSEL and its Hit-Boy produced instrumental is when ASTROWORLD truly takes off. Travis is talking his shit, Frank Ocean is doing his best Young Thug impersonation, and the beat, with its singular producer, threatens to outshine some of the more involved instrumentals found throughout. The transitions between tracks are slick, the beat switches found within sounding more vital than ever. SICKO MODE is a bewildering success. Nothing about it should work, what with its various interpolations, Swae Lee ad-libs, and endearing dad raps, but all of it does nonetheless. Half a bar of Xanax and some Jamba Juice and Travis sounds as urgent as ever.

The following trio of tracks are amongst the best Scotts ever composed. R.I.P. SCREW is a fleeting ode to DJ Screw, Swae Lees croon brilliantly complimenting FKi 1sts sublime production. STOP TRYING TO BE GOD is the crowning achievement of ASTROWORLD; GOD is ethereal, plays like a lucid premonition, with Stevie Wonder dusting off his harmonica and Kid Cudi his signature hums. James Blake absolutely steals the show with the type of tortured performance weve come to miss from the current R&B landscape. NO BYSTANDERS is a whiplash inducing follow up to the downtempo ruminations found before it. Not only is the Juice WRLD and Sheck Wes featuring banger - produced by TM88, Mike Dean, Wondagurl - designed to conjure up mosh pits from the depths of hell, NO BYSTANDERS has some of Travis most entertaining rapping in years.

But despite an undeniable run of opening tracks, ASTROWORLD loses steam fast. Alethargic midsection and anti-climactic conclusion bars it from overtaking Days Before as his outright best project. On SKELETONS, Travis wastes the minds of The Weeknd, Pharrell Williams and Tame Impala by impersonating some of the worst traits of Kanyes rapping. The following track, another effort with The Weeknd, showcases Travis admittedly improved vocal range, but is utterly boring amongst the rest of the more fully realized collaborations. NC-17 is only good for the 21 Savage verse; YOSEMITE for Gunna; CANT SAY for introducing burgeoning Houston rapper, Don Toliver. 5% TINT is the least inoffensive of the bunch, its Goodie Mob interpolation another welcomed instance of homage being paid to southern legends throughout the album.

By the time BUTTERFLY EFFECT twinkles on, a sense of familiarity has overtaken the initial whirlwind of mystique, excitement, bewilderment. Still, this is Travis Scotts most fully realized concept, his best batch of beats, his most focused raps. While Rodeo was full of untapped potential, the overlong runtime and self-seriousness of its songwriting ultimately detracted from some genuinely interesting production and rapping choices. After the stepping stone that was Birds, Travis sounds re-energized on ASTROWORLD. He is no less self-indulgent - or self-serious - but after the split reception to Birds, there seems to be a chip on his shoulder, a conscious effort to prove his worth and earn his place amongst raps elite.
Doctors at the Kauvery Hospital kept the leader on maximum medical support but his health continued to decline.

The DMK head served as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu for five separate terms in the 19692011 period. (Photo: Twitter/@kalaignar89)

Chennai: Towering Tamil Nadu politician Muthuvel Karunanidhi breathed his last on Tuesday, August 7, in Chennai after battling ill health for weeks. He was 94.

Doctors at the Kauvery Hospital kept the leader on maximum medical support but his health continued to decline. It was becoming a challenge to keep his vital organs functioning, doctors had said on Monday.

Press release from Kauvery Hospital - Admin pic.twitter.com/o52AioshPR  KalaignarKarunanidhi (@kalaignar89) August 7, 2018

Fans and supporters of the five-time chief minister kept a strict vigil outside the hospital, praying for his recovery. Chants of Ezhundhu Vaa Thalaivaa (Awake, our leader) and Vaa, Vaa, Gopalapuram Polaam Vaa (Come, Come, let's go to Gopalapuram) could be heard outside the hospital.

See Pictures: RIP Muthuvel Karunanidhi (1924-2018)

According to reports, Riot Control police was also deployed to contain the emotionally-charged party workers who turned up in large numbers.

The DMK patriarch was admitted to Kauvery hospital following a drop in blood pressure on July 28. Since then, the medical status of the 94-year-old has gone through ups and downs.

Also Read: 'Shocked' by Karunanidhi's illness, 21 DMK cadres die

After a health scare, the doctors extended his period of hospitalisation due to age-related overall decline in his general health, altered liver functions and haematological parameters.

Here are the LIVE updates:

9:20 pm: Madras High Court acting Chief Justice Huluvadi G. Ramesh agrees to hear by 10:30 pm today a case against denial of burial land by Tamil Nadu Govt at Marina beach for M Karunanidhi.

9:15 pm: Karnataka Government has declared one day state mourning on Wednesday.

9:05 pm: Ambulance carrying Karunanidhi's mortal remains leaves from Kauvery Hospital for his Gopalapuram residence.

(Photo: ANI/Twitter)

8:50 pm: DMK workers protest outside Kauvery hospital after Tamil Nadu Govt denied land for Karunanidhi's Anna memorial at Marina beach.

(Photo: ANI/Twitter)

8:30 pm: Tamil Nadu government denies permission to bury DMK president M Karunanidhi near the Anna Memorial at Marina beach, reported news agency ANI.

8:14 pm: Tamil Nadu Government declares public holiday on Wednesday and seven-day mourning.

8:07 pm: "He had shown the path to regional parties, its a tragic moment for his workers and those who loved him. He was a mature leader and a statesman. Pray to almighty that his soul rests in peace," says HD Deve Gowda.

8:05 pm: Congress President Rahul Gandhi along with senior party leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Mukul Wasnik to travel to Chennai tomorrow.

8:00 pm: M K Stalin in a statement has appealed to DMK workers to maintain peace and discipline, thanks doctors and the management of Kauvery Hospital.

7:45 pm: PM Narendra Modi to travel to Chennai on Wednesday morning, to pay his last respects to the DMK chief.

7:35 pm: DMK workers gather outside Kauvery hospital, raise slogans in memory of Karunanidhi.

(Photo: ANI/Twitter)

7:30 pm: In a statement, Telangana CM KC Rao expressed his condolences to the bereaved members of the family: In his death, India has lost a political stalwart and it will be difficult to fill the void caused by his sad demise.

7:15 pm: President Ram Nath Kovind said, "Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers."

7:00 pm: Actor Rajnikanth while mourning the death of DMK patriarch said, "Today is a black day in my life, one which I can never forget as I lost my Kalaignar. I pray for his soul."

06:45 pm: PM Narendra Modi condoled the death of DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi. He tweeted: "Deeply saddened by passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised."

Key political milestones of M Karunanidhi:

June 3, 1924: Born in Thirukkuvalai near Tiruvarur, composite Thanjavur district.

August 10, 1942: As self-styled leader of Tamil Nadu Tamil Maanavar Mandram, launches Murasoli in Tamil as handwritten manuscript.

September 17, 1949: Among the Founding members of the DMK at the rally at Robinson Park in old North Madras, where DMK was launched.

July 1953: Arrested for the Kallakudi Agitation, demanding renaming of Dalmiyapuram railway station as part of the anti-Hindi agitation, along with poet Kannadasan and others; Karunanidhi was convicted for six months for that stir.

February 1954: Returns to Chennai to a heros welcome at Egmore station.

April 1957: Elected for first time to the Madras (later Tamil Nadu) Legislative Assembly from Kulittalai constituency near Tiruchy; Noted for his anti-Zamindari campaign there in the run-up to the Assembly polls that year.

1959: DMK founder C N Annadurai honours Karunanidhi for steering DMK to victory in Madras Corporation elections.

1961: Karunanidhi made DMK Treasurer.

1962: Deputy leader of the Opposition in the Assembly on election from Thanjavur constituency.

March 1967: PWD Minister in Annadurai-led first DMK Ministry, after elected from Saidapet Assembly constituency in Chennai that year.

February 10, 1969: Sworn in as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu after untimely demise of his leader and mentor Annadurai

July 27, 1969: Elected as President of DMK, a post he held till the end.

March 15, 1971: Takes charge as Chief Minister in his second term

1983: Quits Assembly membership over Sri Lankan Tamils issue

January 27, 1989: Comes back as CM for third time after MGRs demise.

June 1991: Quits Harbour Assembly seat, owning moral responsibility for DMKs defeat in the General elections that year.

May 13, 1996: Assumes office as CM for fourth time after leading DMK to a massive win in alliance with G.K. Moopanar-led Tamil Maanila Congress.

December 31, 1999- January 1, 2000: Presides over unveiling of the massive 133-feet tall statue of saint-poet Thiruvalluvar at Kanyakumari.

May 13, 2006: Sworn in chief minister for fifth time, elected from Chepauk constituency in Chennai.

February 12, 2009: Undergoes major spinal surgery that confined him permanently to a wheel-chair; missed the Republic Day Parade for the first time that year in his long over eight-decades-long public life.

April 28, 2009: Goes on a sudden, indefinite fast at Anna Square on the Marina in Chennai to press the Sri Lankan government to announce a ceasefire in its war against the Tamil militants in the Islands North.

June 23-27, 2010: Organises first World Classical Tamil Conference, at Coimbatore, pinnacle of his love for Tamil language and literature.

August 10, 2017: Steered by his son M K Stalin, Karunanidhi visits Murasoli office in Chennai on occasion of its Pavazha Vizha, a rare visit outside his Gopalapuram house where he stayed put since his second bout of illness in October 2016.
William Beau Wrigley Jr., billionaire heir of the Wrigley chewing gum company where he served as chairman, president and CEO, now leads a medical cannabis business soon to operate an Austin dispensary.

Surterra Wellness, one of three companies licensed to cultivate and sell medical cannabis in Texas, named Wrigley its new chairman on Monday. Wrigley also invested $65 million into the Georgia-based company with existing dispensaries in Florida.

Wrigley becomes the latest executive bringing high-level corporate experience to the growing legal cannabis market. The U.S. industry, valued at about $11 billion this year, is projected to grow to $23 billion by 2022.

I havent been this excited about a business in a very long time, Wrigley said in a statement. We have an incredible and incredibly professional team that is approaching this industry with a great deal of discipline.

Since Mars Inc. acquired the Wrigley Co. in 2008, Beau Wrigley has served on the board of various technology, media, and health and wellness companies.

Surterra CEO Jake Bergmann said Wrigleys reputation and expertise in building trusted consumer brands should boost the image of both Surterra and the U.S. cannabis industry as a whole.

It validates a lot of what weve been working on, Bergmann said.

Wrigleys involvement with Surterra did not surprise Heather Fazio with Texans for Responsible Marijuana Policy. In recent years, other leaders have publicly expressed interest in the growing legal market. Former U.S. House Speaker John Boehner this spring joined the board of a New York-based cannabis company.

News of appointments such as Wrigleys is likely to become the norm, Fazio said.

Its only a matter of time, she said.

For now, though, Texas legal cannabis remains limited. Under the Compassionate Use Program, only three companies, including Surterra, have licenses to operate dispensaries in the state. They can serve only patients with intractable epilepsy.

But patient advocacy groups are pushing for legislation to expand the programs reach by adding qualified diagnoses and expanding the number of providers. Fazio said business leaders like Wrigley, who say they are committed to patients who could benefit from legal cannabis, can be strong advocates for an expanded program here.

Suterra plans to roll out the first batches of medicine in Texas in the coming weeks. Its goal is to open a wellness center where patients can pick up their prescriptions.

With the $65 million from Wrigleys investment firm, the company plans to conduct clinical research trials focusing on cannabinoid treatment of anxiety, pain, post-traumatic stress disorder and other medical conditions.

This is about helping people, Wrigley said in a statement. It can give people a normal life, let them go to school and be a normal member of society.

ileana.najarro@chron.com

twitter.com/IleanaNajarro
COLLEGE STATION  A top cattle industry official on Monday voiced optimism about the North American Free Trade Agreements future while not discounting current concerns over the 24-year-old trade deal between the U.S., Mexico and Canada.

When we have all these trade issues, we have retaliation, Randy Blach, CEO of data aggregator CattleFax, said during the opening day of the Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course at Texas A&M University.

I believe were going to get resolution on NAFTA in a year or two, Blach told a group of about 2,000 agriculture professionals.   Im optimistic that well get some of these (trade disputes) worked out yet this calendar year as we go down the road.

Tensions have risen between the NAFTA trading partners since President Donald J. Trump imposed steel and aluminum tariffs effective June 1. Canada retaliated by imposing its own tariffs on U.S. imports.

The latest negotiations over NAFTA began in August 2017, but Trump said last month that no deal would be made until after the U.S. midterm elections in November.

Blach cited CattleFax data that show a third of U.S. protein exports over the past five years went to Canada and Mexico.

This is the key export markets that weve got to continue to have access to in order to have our markets move forward, Blach said. This has been a strong, strong trend over the last three years.

He also noted that the United States imports more beef from Canada and Mexico than it exports to them.

NAFTA has been wonderful for us in our agricultural markets, he said. NAFTA is not a big deal on beef. Straight up.

jose.gonzalez@chron.com

twitter.com/jrgzztx
The spouses of H-1B visa holders called the shelters and domestic violence programs because they felt trapped. Stuck in abusive relationships, with a visa status that didnt allow them to work, they were beholden to their abusers for everything. Money. Food. The right to stay in the country.

One womans husband hit her even when she was pregnant. Another was rarely allowed out of the house alone. The women spoke of extreme isolation, threats of deportation, forced sexual encounters. Even when some called the police, they rarely pressed charges: Their H-4 visas depended on their spouses H-1Bs. And if their spouse was arrested, where would that leave them?

How could I press charges? a woman named Nisha  a pseudonym  said, sitting in her lawyers office as the sun poured in on a recent afternoon. I wasnt independent. I was new to this country. If I tell you to arrest him, how will I survive here?

Some of those married to H-1B visa holders gained a glimmer of financial independence when the Obama administration created a work permit program for them in 2015. But now, in the name of protecting American jobs, the Trump administration is working on plans to unravel that program.

Sarahbeth Maney / Special to The Chronicle

About 100,000 H-4 visa holders have applied for a work permit since 2015. Many dread the idea of going back to the days where they couldnt work. Domestic abuse counselors and immigration lawyers in particular worry about how eliminating this program will reinforce the power that H-1B holders have over their spouses.

Because, for some of their clients, the permit is for more than just work.

Its for a way out.

When she came to the U.S. five months pregnant, Nisha initially didnt feel the need to work. Even though she had a masters degree from India, she had a new baby on the way, a family to create. She assumed her husbands well-paying job was enough to support both of them.

I thought my husband would take care of me, she said.

But when she realized the extent of his anger  hed kick tables, storm out of rooms, hit her in fits of rage  she was desperate to get away from him. She called the police a few times, she said, but with no money of her own and no Social Security number, she never pressed charges. She felt there was no choice but to keep quiet, tucked away in her quiet East Bay neighborhood, thousands of miles away from her family in India.

The Chronicle is withholding Nishas real name because she is going through divorce proceedings and finalizing her immigration status. She declined to give her husbands name.

Sarahbeth Maney / Special to The Chronicle

The work-permit program was introduced shortly after Nisha came to the country in 2015. But she didnt qualify, because it only applies after a spouse is approved for a green card.

While being able to seek work may not stop the initial abuse, it gives H-4 visa holders  the majority of whom are Indian women  the opportunity to gain some independence and an identity of their own, said immigration lawyer Kalpana Peddibhotla. The work authorization, she said, potentially gives spouses co-workers and friends to confide in.

When youre without work or youre wholly dependent on someone, it becomes extremely limiting, she said. Youre not part of this society.

H-1B visas are often used by Silicon Valley companies to hire high-skilled immigrants. A large portion have long gone to men from India, where the visa was long regarded as a status symbol and a ticket to a better life  though thats changing amid the U.S. crackdown on foreign workers. For visa-seekers spouses, coming to the U.S. on a dependent visa was a chance to keep their families together and perhaps even start their own path to permanent residency.

Several women who previously spoke to The Chronicle said the work authorization helped them regain confidence as they entered the work force. One woman created her own day care, while others said they were interviewing at major tech companies such as Facebook and Salesforce. Though they hadnt experienced abuse, the women said they still dreaded the idea of not being able to work.

While its impossible to quantify how many spouses on dependent visas have experienced abuse, there are a number of domestic violence programs and shelters around the U.S. and in the Bay Area that cater to South Asian women.

Tejeswi Dodda, an employee at one such program in Berkeley, Narika, said the nature of the visa creates a disincentive to report the violence. She also spoke of how cultural pressures deter many Indian spouses from leaving their abusers. In some South Asian cultures, the idea of divorce is so taboo that some H-4 visa holders would rather stay in an abusive relationship than endure the social shame, she said.

Dodda, who is on an H-4 visa herself, runs a program at Narika called Self-Empowerment & Economic Development, which is designed to help foreigners particularly vulnerable to abuse and exploitation with life skills such as financial literacy and career development.

She spoke of women who were highly successful in India, and then came to the U.S. and saw their self-confidence ravaged when they lost the ability to work.

Before moving to the U.S., she said, They dont visualize the implications of (the) visa.

The administrations plans to do away with H-4 work permits would hit the Bay Area harder than almost anywhere else, since the region has one of the highest concentrations of H-1B visa holders in the U.S. For months, the Department of Homeland Security had said through court filings in a case challenging the permit program that it planned to propose a change to the H-4 work authorization program in June. But June came and went without news, leaving foreign workers and their spouses to anxiously wait.

The agency is considering a number of policy and regulatory changes to carry out the Presidents Buy American, Hire American Executive Order, including a thorough review of employment based visa programs, Michael Bars, spokesman for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, said in a statement Wednesday.

The department did not respond directly to questions about the status of the H-4 work authorization.

Critics of the H-4 work authorization say the program is a threat to American jobs, and the administration should not be able to create a work permit program without congressional approval.

Even without the H-4 program, women in Nishas situation have other options. But many either dont know of them, or the solutions feel too out of reach without a lawyer to help them through the convoluted U.S. immigration system.

Theres the U visa, which is set aside for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse. But in order to qualify, victims need to show they have filed charges, something Nisha, and other women in similar situations, say theyve been too scared to do because of their dependent immigration status.

A work permit for abused nonimmigrant spouses was implemented last year. In order to qualify, applicants dont have to show theyve filed charges, but can instead demonstrate credible proof of abuse such as police reports, psychological evaluations, or statements from people aware of the situation, such as a domestic violence shelter worker.

Peddibhotla said some of her clients could have avoided needing such a special permit if the H-4 had allowed them to work in the first place.

The reason people get stuck for so long is because you dont even know who to call, she said.

Sarahbeth Maney / Special to the Chronicle 2018

Two years into living with her abusive husband in the U.S., Nisha said she got help only after a doctor noticed her distress during a routine checkup. The doctor recommended a local shelter, and Nisha later met Peddibhotla, who has advised her pro bono and helped her qualify for the domestic violence work permit.

Since getting the work permit, Nisha says things have gotten better.

She moved out of her husbands house and into a shelter for a few months  a place she said exposed her to many different types of people, and helped improve her English. She then was able to get her own apartment through support received from the shelter. Her son is starting to go to school and interact with other kids. When hes at school, she attends a work training program. Soon, shell start interviewing for jobs.

As she waits for the divorce proceeding, however, the permit only gives her two years to figure out another visa status  such as getting an H-1B of her own.

The thought of going back to India as a divorced woman and single mom, she said, is worse than enduring hardships in the U.S. So shes slowly picking the pieces of her life back up here.

But if she had been independent from the moment she got here, she said she would have had a way out from the beginning.

No woman should come on an H-4 visa, she said. H-4 women ... should be independent.

Trisha Thadani is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: tthadani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @TrishaThadani

A previous version of this story misstated the position of Tejeswi Dodda at Narika. She is an employee. The story has been altered to reflect this change.
The Gulf of Mexico, languishing in the shadow of onshore shale plays, is getting new attention as oil prices hold near $70 a barrel and oil fields like the Permian Basin get more crowded and expensive.

Two merger proposals on Monday were the latest to show the increasing interest and activity offshore after the long downturn that followed the recent oil bust. In a major Gulf of Mexico transaction, Kosmos Energy of Dallas said it would pay $1.2 billion to acquire the Houston offshore exploration and production company Deep Gulf Energy. Meanwhile, Harvey Gulf International Marine of New Orleans moved to outbid Tidewater of Houston for the offshore energy services company GulfMark Offshore, also of Houston.

BENEFITS: Chevron, Anadarko, EOG team up on Midland daycare school

Pavel Molchanov, an energy analyst at Raymond James in Houston, said the dealmaking shows the growing interest in the Gulf of Mexico, even if its not the top priority for most of the bigger energy players.

This is a classic example of a value buy, Molchanov said. Its a little bit contrarian, but the good thing about a contrarian move is its cheaper.

The acquisition of Deep Gulf would allow Kosmos, which operates almost exclusively in Africa and South America, to enter the Gulf of Mexico in a big way while diversifying its holdings in the slowly rebounding, but politically stable U.S. Gulf. Kosmos Chief Executive Andrew Inglis said Deep Gulf gives the growing company more diversification, exploration opportunities and a pipeline of quality development projects in the Gulf.

"With many competitors leaving the Gulf of Mexico to chase onshore shale plays, a huge opportunity has opened in the basin," Inglis said. "The best deepwater assets can compete with the best of shale, and now is a good time to enter the Gulf of Mexico."

BE PREPARED: Offshore rigs getting ready for hurricane seasons worst

Kosmos has doubled its oil and gas production in the last four years, and this deal should allow Kosmos to double again in the next four years, he said. Deep Gulf is controlled by the Connecticut private equity firm First Reserve, which provided funding at the companys inception in 2005.

The sale is expected to close in September. Kosmos said it will pay $925 million in cash and another $300 million in its stock shares.

GulfMark, meanwhile, said it will investigate the bid from Harvey Gulf, which appears to offer $40 million more than Tidewater. Tidewater, which moved to Houston from New Orleans, said last month that it would pay $340 million for GulfMark in an all-stock deal. Both deals would combine marine vessel support companies for the oil and and gas industry in the Gulf of Mexico.

Harvey Gulf International Marine, which just emerged from bankruptcy in early July, proposed a reverse merger in which Harvey Gulf would technically be acquired by GulfMark, but the Harvey Gulf leadership and investors would control a majority of the combined company. This would allow Harvey Gulf, a private company, to trade on public stock exchanges under the GulfMark name and ticker.

GulfMark's shareholders would own 41.2 percent of the combined GulfMark and Harvey Gulf company.

GulfMark said Monday that the Harvey Gulf alternative could be worth more than $380 million to its investors. GulfMark said it will review the proposal, but that its board of directors continues to believe that the idewater merger is in the best interest of shareholders. The Tidewater deal is still expected - at least for now - to close by the end of the year.
A reporter for a London newspaper wrote a harrowing account last year about how he and a photographer were burned by live power lines and forced to cling to a tree for nearly 24 hours after an attempted rescue mission they had accompanied ended tragically with the deaths of four volunteers.

A year later, the reporter, Alan Butterfield, has sued CenterPoint Energy for the burns and other injuries he received when the rescue boat tangled with downed power lines, killing all but three of the seven people on board. Butterfield, a reporter with the Daily Mail who lives in Salt Lake City, accused CenterPoint of failing to shut off electricity in the neighborhoods along Greens Bayou, which was flooded by Hurricane Harvey, according to the lawsuit filed Monday in state district court in Harris County.

The group was headed to rescue a wheelchair-bound resident when they encountered the downed power lines. CenterPoint spokeswoman Alejandra Diaz said the utility would not comment.

At least one other lawsuit has been filed for deaths caused by power lines knocked down during the record-breaking storm. In May, the family of Andrew Pasek, 25, sued CenterPoint and two other companies for a total of $1 million, alleging that the power should have been cut off to the live wires. Pasek was electrocuted on Aug. 29, 2017, as he stepped through the high water in a Spring Branch-area neighborhood.

Butterfield, 55, came to Houston to cover Hurricane Harvey, which had been expected to cause widespread damage. On Monday, Aug. 28, three days after Harvey made landfall and covered the Houston area in water, Butterfield and photographer Ruaridh Connellan were on the east side of Houston.

They asked a group of five men with an older motorboat if the journalists could come along to film a water rescue of a wheelchair-bound resident along Greens Bayou, according to Butterfields account published by the Daily Mail. The volunteers agreed.

The mission was one of hundreds that Houstonians with boats launched to rescue flooded residents stuck in their homes as the hurricane dumped more than 50 inches of rain. Many of the grateful residents who were rescued were families with children and pets and elderly people who sent out calls of distress on social media that water was rising and there was no place to go. The heroes of Harvey saved many lives.

Butterfield said in the lawsuit that the volunteers were only about 10 minutes into their rescue mission when they they saw disaster looming. The boat was heading straight toward submerged power lines that were sparking. The electricity knocked out the engine, making the boat difficult to maneuver, according to the lawsuit. The group tried to turn the boat around, but the current was too strong.

Everyone jumped out and Butterfield wrote that the electricity coursing through the water initially paralyzed him. He was able to grab on to a dinghy attached to the motorboat and reach a tree, along with Connellan and volunteer Jose Vizueth. For nearly 24 hours, according to the lawsuit, they shouted and tried to attract attention as they clung to branches. But the torrential rain and heavy winds made them invisible to rescuers.

The water smelled putrid  like stagnant sewage, mixed with everything else, Butterfield wrote in his account the day after he was rescued. There was heavy rain on us all night, and I was trying to catch drops in my mouth to get some water.

Butterfield has scarring on his legs and stomach and damaged ligaments in his shoulder, caused by the hours he spent clinging to the tree, said his Houston lawyer Muhammad Aziz. Butterfield spent more than a week in the hospital after he was rescued, battling burns and an infection from the polluted water.

Given the re-occurrence of flooding in Houston, Aziz said, I think CenterPoint needs to come up with a solid plan and strategy for things like this in the future so people dont get electrocuted.

The accident killed volunteer rescuers Jorge Raul Perez, 33, and 25-year-old Yahir Rubio-Vizueth, as well as Gustavo Rodriguez, 40, and Benjamin Vizueth, 33, whose bodies were later found on the banks of Greens Bayou.

In the lawsuit, Butterfield accused CenterPoint of negligence for failing to take reasonable care to ensure it shut off power to the area during the hurricane. Butterfield is seeking unspecified damages.

lynn.sixel@chron.com

twitter.com/lmsixel
President Trump used Californias deadly spree of wildfires to criticize environmental laws for a second straight day, suggesting falsely on Twitter that they are keeping water from firefighters trying to battle the flames.

However, Trumps tweets about water foolishly being diverted to the Pacific Ocean also played into a very real fight over how to divide Californias limited water supplies  a conflict that has intensified this summer with a proposal to set aside more water for fish at the expense of farms.

Policy experts said Trump was confusing the issue when he tweeted Sunday that bad environmental laws ... arent allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized to fight wildfires. Firefighters are not in competition for water, and officials said theres no shortage.

Now Playing: The erratic conflagration has chewed through more than 266,000 acres and 68 homes in 10 days, making it the fourth-largest wildfire on record in California. Video: Los Angeles Times

We have plenty of water supplies, said Scott McLean, spokesman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

In fact, the Carr Fire, which has killed seven people and destroyed more than 1,000 homes in and around Redding, began near the Whiskeytown Dam, part of the state Central Valley Project that supplies Northern California water to farmers farther south.

Trumps second water-related tweet came Monday, when he wrote that Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Can be used for fires, farming and everything else. Think of California with plenty of Water - Nice! Fast Federal govt. approvals.

Browns office did not comment. This does not merit a response, said spokesman Evan Westrup.

The backdrop of Trumps tweets is a charged debate before the State Water Resources Control Board, the agency tasked with allocating Californias water supplies. It is set to vote this month on a plan to increase flows in the San Joaquin River and its tributaries, which would help fish but hurt farmers.

The agency hopes to aid migrating salmon that have struggled with too little water in the San Joaquin, and to restore habitat in the fish-depleted delta. Central Valley farmers and water agencies are lobbying to amend or defeat the plan.

Last month, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke visited agricultural areas that would be affected by the river proposal and called on state leaders to be more sympathetic to farmers. Several congressman in rural California have made similar pleas, and the cause has apparently found its way to the White House.

Im not in Trumps head, and Im not sure who is feeding him his political talking points, but theres a pipeline of communication thats probably coming from Central Valley legislators, said Mark Lubell, a professor of environmental science and policy at UC Davis. I dont think Trump has the policy expertise that is needed to come up with this on his own.

In his effort to influence the debate on river supplies over Twitter, Lubell said, Trump incorrectly tied it to the wildfires.

This connection between water availability and fire management is just not there, he said.

Lubell is among a number of researchers who say Californias wildfires are becoming worse because of a combination of factors, including decades of fire suppression that has created too much hazardous vegetation, more people moving into rural, fire-prone areas, and a warming climate.

Bill Stewart, a forestry specialist at UC Berkeley, said Trumps tweets at least momentarily diverted attention from a growing consensus among scientists that climate change is making Californias wildfires worse. The president has called climate change a hoax and has rolled back several Obama-era regulations that sought to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Last week, he moved to prevent California from imposing stricter car-emission standards than required by federal law.

Fire behavior now is off the charts, Stewart said. Trump wants to get climate change off the agenda, and no one seems to be talking about climate change now because everyone wants to know whats on his mind with his tweets.

One of the comments Trump offered has at least some validity, according to forestry experts, including Stewart. After linking water policy to wildfires, Sundays post finished with a line about forest management: Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading!

Experts agree that addressing the buildup of vegetation in forests, which can include tree thinning, can go a long way to reducing the likelihood of dangerous fires. Before the era of fire suppression, Californias wildlands naturally burned, removing fuels and making the landscape far less combustible.

Environmentalists, however, fear that Trump simply wants to open the door to clear-cutting for the benefit of logging companies. Stewart theorized that Trump was taking a shot at rules that require environmental study before logging can occur. Republicans in Congress have been critical of such reviews and have fought to ease regulations for timber companies.

Trumps just repeating the standard, one-inch-deep critique of environmental regulation, Stewart said.

Some Republicans were happy to see the tweets, noting that the president appeared firmly on their side, even if they couldnt completely explain his rationale.

Rep. Devin Nunes, R-Tulare, tweeted Sunday night, Thx @realDonaldTrump for bringing much needed attention to our flawed environmental policies! Forests should be managed properly and water should be allowed for farmers to grow food to feed people. Thx for supporting the people of San Joaquin Valley and Sierra Nevada mountains!

The presidents tweets, though, drew a scathing response from Rep. Jared Huffman of San Rafael, ranking Democrat on the House water, power and oceans subcommittee.

Even our idiot president is smart enough to know this tweet is complete bunk  theres not a shred of truth in it, Huffman said on Facebook. In the middle of a tragedy, he spouts a lie to get a rise from his base and to bait his critics so were once again talking about him.

Trump has waded into Californias water politics before. During a May 2016 campaign rally in Fresno at the nadir of the states five-year run of dry winters, then-candidate Trump told the crowd that there is no drought. He said he had learned that at a meeting with farmers, organized by an official of the Westlands Water District, a politically powerful group of irrigators.

You have a water problem that is so insane, it is so ridiculous, where theyre taking the water and shoving it out to sea, Trump said.

He called the solution very simple: He would turn on the taps for San Joaquin Valley growers. Were going to get it done quick, he said. Dont even think about it.

Kurtis Alexander is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kalexander@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @kurtisalexander
Chay Yews take on gay Asian identity in Porcelain remains singular.

Tinged with the darkness of Sarah Kane and the trauma of Angels in America, the play is a brutal look at what it means to be an outcast among outcasts  a monster, a ghost and fragile plaything all at once. To be gay and to be Asian, Yew suggests, is to endure homophobia from your family and sexual rejection from the blonde-haired, blue-eyed men that populate Londons gay pubs. It is to belong nowhere. To be gay and to be Asian, in other words, is to be no one.

Anchoring this fearless production from Caduceus Theater Arts Company  a new company founded by Houston-based doctor Michael Heard  is the rapturous Bao Quoc Hoang, who plays a gay Chinese-British teenager in prison for murder. Hoang does the plays title justice with a performance that is pristine and subtle yet forged with heat, a showcase of endurance and finesse that never leans on the easy melodrama the script presents. He doesnt look the audience in the eye, rather shifting his face and shoulders to show that his character, John Lee, isnt comfortable in his own skin.

John sits in the center of a black minimalist set punctuated by a background of shifting reds and blacks (projections change from Rorschach blots to red paper cranes to images of a crow  the animal is a symbol of social alienation). Four voices, played by four white male actors, stalk and haunt John as they go from one character to the next.

More Information "Porcelain" When: 8 p.m. Thursday-Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, 8 p.m. Monday, through Aug. 26 Where: MATCH, 3400 Main Details: $22-$30; matchhouston.org See More Collapse

These characters include an aggressive television broadcaster covering Johns murder case, a boyfriend of Johns and a psychiatrist tasked to determine whether he was sane at the time of the crime. These voices circle John like vultures while he sits in the middle, hands demurely on his knees, waiting to receive judgement and punishment. Its a hostile, often uncomfortable setup that illustrates the imbalance of power using the language of dance.

Dain Geist walks a fine line between villain and sympathizer as the psychiatrist, who starts off as a racist homophobe and slowly learns to see the world from Johns point of view. Director Bonnie Hewett oversees some well-crafted scenes that balance depictions of abuse and violence with tricks of lighting and music that make them artful and effective. This is satisfying theater that makes strong artistic choices that sticks by them.

But Porcelain, while a refreshing and provocative choice for a production, doesnt always make a case for itself in 2018. Written in 1992, Yew presented a view on gay Asian identity that remains fundamentally tragic. Scenes of the Voices yelling queer, chink and poof at John over and over again would have no doubt been audacious in the early 1990s, but today such victimhood reeks of an outdated worldview.

The decades since the plays premiere, after all, have seen both sexuality and race rise out of the realm of hushed taboo into a place of integration, mainstream acceptance and empowerment. Porcelain does not offer John empowerment because theater was not there yet  John was written to be first and foremost acknowledged at a time when society would rather pretend he didnt exist.

Porcelain says look how tragic it is to be gay, to be Asian. Then the world changed. Now being those things is also normal, funny, sexy, weird, boring or all other states of existence not traditionally included in the minority-victim narrative. Right now, Bao Quoc Hoang is stellar as a man who gives up everything, including his body, to be gay and Asian. But in the future, I hope Hoang returns to the Houston stage to play a DJ, or a jock, or a bad boyfriend or a self-absorbed artist living in Brooklyn  really, any character who is Asian, and doesnt have to be punished for it.

wchen@chron.com
Lightnin' Hopkins' self-titled 1959 album will return to print on vinyl for the first time in years thanks to a new Smithsonian Folkways program that will recirculate some of the most storied titles from its vast archives.

Smithsonian Folkways is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. The label was founded in 1948 by Moses Asch, a sound engineer from Poland who believed strongly in documenting music and culture. The Folkways statement on his vision: "Our mission is the legacy of Moses Asch, who founded Folkways Records in 1948 to document 'people's music,' spoken word, instruction, and sounds from around the world."

Now Playing: Houston's Splice Records will host its annual River Revival Music Festival Sept. 27-30 in New Braunfels. The Gulf Coast R&B/funk/soul band the Suffers -- enjoying a breakout year with new album "Everything Here" -- are among the event's headliners. Video: Splice Records TX

Asch died in 1986, and the following year the Smithsonian acquired Folkways from his family's estate. The label continues to run as a nonprofit, which lends it a degree of quality control unparalleled in the recording and release of music.

In addition to "Lightnin' Hopkins," the label will press new vinyl on "Struggle," an album of songs Asch recorded by Woody Guthrie in 1940 and anthologized in 1976 for America's bicentennial. The third title in the first batch of recordings will be "Bahaman Folk Guitar: Music of the Bahamas, Vol. 1." The guitarist is Joseph Spence, and the field recordings were made by the great musicologist Samuel Charters in 1958 and released the following year.

At HoustonChronicle.com: Lightnin' Hopkins and the Korean War blues

Charters was a key figure at Folkways. He played a significant role in the rediscovery of Hopkins, who recorded in Los Angeles and Houston in the 1940s, but was less active musically in the '50s. Charters traveled to Houston in hopes of finding the elusive musician. He talks about that trip (and his career) in this wonderful interview with NPR:

"I'd hear Lightnin' Hopkins who was a figure somewhere out of Texas, who was making some records for a funny little record company called Gold Star, which then went out of business, Lightnin' disappeared. But I always ate in a same sort of run-down restaurant in the French Quarter and turned out that I was talking one day about Lightnin' Hopkins, and the cook said, that's my cousin. And he at least directed me to Houston. And then once I got in the Houston ghetto, after about three days of asking around, found his sister, who didn't know anything. Found a place where his guitar was on pawn, they didn't know anything. And finally, I was sitting in my car at a street corner and a car pulled up beside me and a man rolled down the window and said, you looking for me? And I said, you're Lightnin? That's right. So I rented a guitar for him, got a bottle of gin, we went back to the little shabby room where he was living, and we made his first LP."

That recording made at the Hadley Street apartment became "Lightnin' Hopkins" in 1959, an album that reintroduced Hopkins to music fans and helped tip the '60s folk and blues revival into being. The effect that one album had on rock 'n roll is inestimable. Hopkins' performs nine songs, including "See That My Grave Is Kept Clean." A 10th track finds him offering his memories of that song's creator, Blind Lemon Jefferson.

COMMENTARY: Measuring Lightnin' Hopkins' musical value is no easy task

Nearly as brilliant as its musical content was the cover design, a photo of Hopkins reproduced four times and banded in white and shades of orange, kind of like the famed Houston Astros jerseys that would come decades later. The cover has been cribbed by other artists for years since its release.

Music nerds who spend any time watching technical engineering videos on YouTube likely have come across the work of Pete Reiniger, who is the Grammy-winning sound engineer charged with making the new Folkways vinyl releases sound wonderful. Here's a clip of him working on "Big Bill Broonzy Sings Folk Songs."
New Delhi trip cancelled owing to US Prezs other engagements.

New Delhi: United States President Donald Trump is unlikely to visit India in January next year as the chief guest for Republic Day celebrations. According to highly placed sources, while Washington has acknowledged the invitation sent by New Delhi, it is reliably learnt that the visit may not happen, owing to his other engagements during that period.

Sources in the know said that Mr Trumps India visit in the near future is currently not on the radar of the US administration.

The government is keen to invite Mr Trump as chief guest for 2019 Republic Day function, which would be the NDA regimes last before the Lok Sabha polls. It had invited then US President Barack Obama as chief guest during the Republic Day function in 2015.

Considering the fact that there have been raging differences between India and the US over trade issues, the bilateral ties are currently going through a uneasy phase and, therefore, this could also be a reason behind keeping the visit on the backburner, sources indicated. Also Indias relations with Iran and its proposed pact with Moscow over the S-400 defence missile system have also added to the complexities, sources pointed out.

India is learnt to have moved closer towards acquiring five advanced S-400 Triumf air defence missile systems from Russia despite reservations from the US.

Though India has started looking at other alternatives, after US asked it to cut oil imports from Iran, New Delhis pact with Moscow for buying the long range S-400 defence missile system could further make relations with Washington difficult, observers say.

Also the increased import duty on Americas Harley-Davidson motorbikes, imposed by India, has turned out to be a thorny issue between the two nations.
The circa 1940s gas station at the northeast corner of 11th and Beverly in the Heights has been many things. A taqueria, a hair salon, and ice cream shop, and a place where, in its original form, Bonnie & Clyde may or may not have filled the tank.

"I can't confirm that but it's a rumor," said chef Travis Lenig. "Maybe they gassed up, got supplies and moved on."

The physical building, which has been unused for the past decade, has itself moved on. Adjacent to Lenig's Field & Tides restaurant, it has been refashioned as a separate bar and patio destination (as well as overflow seating or pre-dinner waiting area) appropriately called The Lounge at Field & Tides.

Open just over a week, the new lounge seats 24 inside and up to 40 on the patio. Designed with touches that suggest both period speakeasy and contemporary urban boite, it is outfitted with oversize Edison bulb lighting, concrete floors, plenty of exposed brick, a white subway tiled bar, custom tabletops and rustic metal chairs wearing a deliberately weathered patina. Casual, yes, but the space is stylish enough to hold its own among popular Heights bar/restaurants such as Postino, Calle Onze and Presidio.

VINE TIME: Posh new wine bar opens in the Heights

And thanks to Lenig's new menu at Field & Tides, it's also an enticing place to dine. The lounge shares the same cocktail and food menu as the restaurant Lenig opened in February 2017 with his partner Christopher "Chico" Ramirez, another industry veteran. Together they have made the intimate Field & Tides (formerly chef Jamie Zelko's Zelko Bistro) among the more accomplished dining rooms in the Heights.

The lounge was always a part of the partners' designs for Field & Tides. Though a separate structure, Lenig and Ramirez always saw it as a space that could stand on its own as a bar or serve as a great place to grab a cocktail or wine before or after dinner at the restaurant. Now that the partners have completed the much-delayed build out, the lounge is ready to begin its new history as a bar, a dining room and a private events space.

The lounge makes its debut at the same time Lenig has changed up the menu with new offerings  about half of the dishes are newcomers.

Braised octopus with roasted potatoes, chorizo and chimichurri is a new head turner. Ditto for the soba noodle salad in a miso rice wine vinaigrette and studded with chopped mango, roasted eggplant, cilantro, peas, ginger and basil. Two sandwiches take a bow: slow-roasted beef, avocado, pickled jalapeno and chipotle aioli torta, and Lenig's play on a BLT (here called the PLTE) that features crispy porchetta, lettuce, fried green tomatoes and a fried egg on sourdough toast.

Lenig's new entrees are an impressive lot: sesame-crusted tuna with glazed broccolini; slow-cooked, Asian-spiced beef rib with Thai curry glaze served with crab fried rice; and daily catch flavored with curry, garlic and citrus cooked in a banana leaf and served with coconut rice, fried plantains and mango salsa.

There's an Asian bent to the new menu. "It surprises people when they walk in," Lenig said. "The flavors are vibrant and good for summer."

Beverage director Monique Henandez's cocktails such as the Coastline (Fords Gin, lemon juice, elderflower liqueur and crushed mint) or The Basic B (Fords Gin, lavender syrup, lemon juice, Chambord, Topo Chico and a thyme sprig garnish) work well in the new lounge environment.

Something maybe even Bonny & Clyde might have liked.

The Lounge at Field & Tides, 705 E. 11th St., 713-861-6143; fiendandtides.com

Greg Morago writes about food for the Houston Chronicle. Follow him on Facebook or Twitter. Send him news tips at greg.morago@chron.com. Follow him on the podcast BBQ State of Mind to learn about Houston and Texas barbecue culture.
For gay men of a certain age, the brutal attack on Christopher Bradford in Montrose on Aug. 1 was shocking, but not surprising.

After leaving Barcode, an LGBTQ nightspot, Christopher Bradford, a single father of a 7-year-old daughter, was assaulted by two men who punched him, kicked him and used boots, belt buckles and rocks to bludgeon him. He was taken to Memorial Hermann to be treated for two open wounds to his head that required staples and glue to close. A CT scan revealed blood around his brain.

"I was assaulted for being a gay man alone," Bradford stated on Facebook in a post accompanied by chilling photos of his wounds that quickly went viral in Houston's LGBTQ community. "My head was busted open in two places and my whole back bruised all the way down. If my friend had not run up and yelled he is calling the police, I might not be alive today."

READ MORE: Suspect arrested in connection with beating of man in Montrose

Surprisingly, Houston Police Department has been reluctant to declare the episode a hate crime. To longtime observers, the scenario of a gay man being attacked after leaving a gay bar seems entirely consistent with Texas's long history of anti-LGBTQ violence. Most infamously, on July 4, 1991, Houston banker Paul Broussard was brutally attacked and murdered after leaving a gay nightclub when 10 male teenagers drove an hour from the Woodlands to Montrose to "beat up some queers."

Months later, in November 1991, Phillip W. Smith was murdered after leaving a gay club in Montrose.

On Feb. 15, 2015, as attackers yelled, "Get the fag," John Gaspari was beaten and shot as he walked through Montrose. And in 2016, Dallas's gay community experienced a wave of almost 30 episodes of anti-gay violence in the Oak Lawn neighborhood.

Robert Bruce seemed to sum up the feelings of many LGBTQ Texans when he observed in a post on Facebook, "As a longtime Houstonian (now retired to Northeast Texas), I am saddened to see this. I was attacked outside the first Farmhouse Bar in 1975. Sad and unacceptable that 43 years later, nothing has changed."

The anti-LGBTQ violence on the streets of Montrose is not an isolated incident. In Trump's America, LGBTQ Americans are under attack in a number of ways at the city, state and federal level.

In July, the Houston Public Library introduced Drag Queen Storytime, in which drag queens read to children at Houston-area libraries. The program followed on the heels of similar successful programs that have been introduced from New York to Oklahoma to San Francisco to Alaska. Conservative Houston activist Steven Hotze seized on the chance to reignite the culture wars, labeling the story time "a form of pedophilia" and declaring, "Just like we have opposed the godless Communists who are trying to destroy our American values, so we must oppose the sodomites who are undermining the Biblically based moral values of our nation."

Hotze leads the organization Conservative Republicans of Texas, which has been designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Councilmember Michael Kubosh further stirred the pot at City Council on July 17 and took to Fox News to denounce the program. After his appearance, the next drag queen story time drew its largest attendance ever. A heterosexual friend of mine, the doting mother of a teenage son, proposed a pragmatic solution to the controversy: "If you don't want your children to see drag queens, then don't take them to the Drag Queen Storytime."

Courtesy of Christopher Bradford

Nationally, Donald Trump has put a target on the backs of transgender troops courageously serving their country in the military. In March, he issued a memorandum stating that "transgender persons who require or have undergone gender transition" cannot serve. The reasons put forward for the ban were debunked by an extensive 2016 study by the Rand Group. The study found, "If the U.S. military decides to let transgender people serve openly, the number would likely be a small fraction of the total force and have minimal impact on readiness and health care costs." Republican Senators Orrin Hatch, John McCain, and Joni Ernst have criticized Trump's ban on transgender troops.

READ MORE: Attacks on LGBT Texans are everywhere. Here's what you can do.

In January, the Trump administration had declared that it would protect health care workers who, due to their religious beliefs, refuse to provide services to transgender patients seeking to transition and women seeking abortions.

Then, on July 31, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the creation of a religious liberty task force. One of the co-chairs of the task force is Associate Attorney General Jesse Panuccio, who as an attorney in 2010 defended supporters of Proposition 8, a 2008 ballot measure that banned same-sex marriage in California for nearly five years. A headline from The Daily Beast aptly summarized what seemed to be the real agenda of the task force: "Jeff Sessions' 'Religious Liberty Task Force' Declares Holy War on LGBT People."

What is to be done in the face of this onslaught?

1) Vote as if you're life depended upon it. The deadline to register to vote in the November 6 election is October 9. Find more information on how to register here.

2) If you're interested in electing fair-minded leaders who will oppose discriminatory measures, download the endorsements of the Houston Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus from their website in early October. The Caucus has one of the most rigorous, respected and transparent screening process of any Houston political organization.

3) Equality Texas is the statewide advocacy organization fighting for LGBTQ equality. They have a new pledge: "If you attack one Texan, you attack all Texans." Sign the pledge online, and they will alert you when discriminatory legislation is pending, with ways to contact your legislators and advocate against discrimination.

4) Join the Texas Freedom Network, a nonpartisan grassroots organization which has been building coalitions with faith leaders to fight for the civil rights of LGBTQ Texans. Sign up for their daily e-newsletter, which contains news articles on the latest developments impacting religious freedom, individual liberties and public education.

Andrew Edmonson serves on the board of directors of The Oral History Project, which is capturing, preserving and sharing the stories of Houston's response to the AIDS crisis.

Get the Gray Matters newsletter. If you don't want your children to see it, then don't sign them up for it.
In the 1950s and '60s, my parents raised six children on a farm outside Bellville. Six children who then raised their children in Texas. This comes full circle for me, as my children are raising children in Texas.

Now I have to ask: Is Texas a good place to raise my four grandchildren? I trust their parents to raise them well.

But Texas? Yikes! I know too much about children's health and well-being to believe Texas is that good of a place to raise our children.

A recent study of health in all 50 states confirms the disparities in Texas, the lack of investment by state leaders and the bottom-dwelling status of Texas. We're not last, but we're near the bottom and having Mississippi be "worse" is cold comfort when you want better for your kids. I actually thought we might rank a little higher in the results, but then I remembered how many uninsured kids we have in Texas.

Texas is not a safe place to be a pregnant woman or child. This summer alone, we will see thousands of children treated for signs of domestic abuse. We'll record the deaths of children by diverse forms of violence and neglect, including more children dying from being left in cars than in any other state. We'll see Texas children suffering from poverty, including the effects of substandard housing, unhealthy food, disease and lack of opportunities for growth.

Collectively, as a state, we don't invest in health care or education nearly as much as most other states. Texas frequently hopes charitable organizations will pick up the slack, but come on  is trusting the potential benevolence of strangers the best way to raise our kids?

One of every 10 Texas school children is not covered with health insurance. This is bad generally for schools and public health, endangering other kids, teachers and families, and this is bad specifically for those children who fall behind in health and well-being. It's really bad when a crisis or other traumatic event occurs, and children without insurance lack mental and behavioral health resources as well as access to physical care.

Compounding the challenges for our children is the rising inequality in our nation. We're increasingly stratified by income as children born in poverty are more likely to stay in poverty. And increasing numbers of Texas children grow up in poverty.

Some people will point to wealth, our Texas Medical Center or our universities. They'll point to all the doctors who graduate here. Sadly, our wealth isn't spent on children. Yes, look at all the Texans without money or health insurance to open those gleaming doors of access to care. Watch carefully as the doctors who graduate from Texas schools leave our state, because Texas hasn't created enough residency openings, despite the crucial need for doctors in urban and rural areas across our state.

HEALTH CARE IN VAN HORN: When the lone doctor is out, telemedicine keeps this ER running

And look at our children lining up in underfunded schools where caring teachers like my son and his wife are forced to train students to score well on standardized tests, instead of teaching them critical thinking and research skills. Look at our children pulled out of school cafeteria lines to have a school lunch debt written on their arms with a Sharpie marker so the numbers won't wash off. Look at our children watching their parents choose between paying the rent or filling prescription medicines.

Is Texas a good place to raise children? If you can afford to buy a childhood insulated from reality, sure, Texas can be a great place to raise children.

But for real and regular people, for the majority of families raising kids? Texas fails children and families again and again.

One of the worse parts of this whole sorry situation is why Texas fails children, why Texas repeatedly ranks at the bottom of indicators for healthy lives. Why? Because the elected leaders in our wealthy state don't invest in children. Texas has money and resources. We just don't invest those resources in our kids. Instead of looking at broad-based improvements in our state revenues, we complain about property taxes.

ONE SIMPLE FIX: CHIP worked. It's not too late for Congress to bring it back.

So now the question comes to all of us: Do we want Texas to be a good place to raise our children and grandchildren? If our answer is yes, we should take action: We should tell our elected officials to invest in our kids, particularly through health care and education. We should elect folks who will invest in children, who will invest in education, health care, housing and the future of all Texans.

If we are willing to change, Texas would be a great state in which to raise children. For the sake of my grandchildren, I hope we're willing.

Ken Janda (@HealthyTexans) is President and CEO of Community Health Choice, Inc. (Community), a Houston-based, nonprofit managed care organization that provides innovative health insurance plans focused on low-income families. He teaches health policies as an adjunct professor in the Jones Business School at Rice.

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Memorial Villages residents could see fewer traffic problems and better emergency response during disasters because their police department is now using drones.

The Memorial Villages Police Department received two drones about six weeks ago as a donation from the MVPD Police Foundation. The aerial technology is helping to manage traffic, solve crimes and find missing persons.

HARVEY FOOTAGE: Drone photos show hurricane's impact on Houston

MVPD Chief Ray Schultz said he really started to see the value of drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles, last year during Harvey when Police Officer and UAV Pilot Larry Boggus brought his personal drone to work.

It was a huge asset for us because very quickly we were able to see the amount of houses that were damaged, Schultz said. We were also able to determine which roads were impassable, so we didnt send equipment down roads they couldnt get out of, which is important especially here in the villages [where] a lot of our streets are dead ends and cul-de-sacs.

Now Playing: Ryan Baker, CEO of Arch Aerial, talks about his drone inspection company as they fly over a pipe rack at Thermal Energy Corporation, Tuesday, June 26, 2018, in Houston. Video: Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle

During the storm, Boggus drone was able to see which homes had towels hanging out front to alert first responders that the families inside needed assistance. It also helped with surveying damage at the flooded wastewater treatment plant. But Schultz said the biggest benefit came after the flooding receded, when traffic through the villages sharply increased as Houstonians tried to navigate the city around many bridge and road closures.

We had 100,000 cars a day coming through the villages, so we had the drone up almost every day looking for where our bottlenecks were, he said.

Schultz said using the drone, the department could quickly see where broken down cars were, alert tow trucks and tell the tow drivers the best way to get there.

MVPD and Boggus entered into an agreement about six months ago for him to work using his drone, Schultz said. Boggus is the departments first UAV pilot, But Schultz said other officers are interested, and some have been investing in their own personal drones to learn.

The department hosted a sUAS (small unmanned aircraft system) symposium for about 30 first responders July 30-31 at the Boy Scouts facility located at Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church. First responders from the Bellaire, Pearland, Freeport, METRO and Memorial Villages police departments; the Alvin, Austin, Bryan and Houston fire departments; and Texas Search & Rescue and CrowdSource Rescue attended.

The training event allowed the attendees to fly some drones and learn about FAA rules and permitting. They also got to learn from one another.

The department hosted the training to get all the agencies together to share information as everyone is developing policies, so it makes more sense to all be talking together because all the policies are similar, Schultz said.

The drones can fly up to 400 feet per Federal Aviation Administration regulations and travel quickly. Within a couple of minutes, one drone at the event was 256 feet up in the air and 889 feet away. The department has a patrol vehicle that is specially outfitted for the drones and equipped with a large television screen in the back to see what they drone is seeing.

Boggus said he has not heard much opposition from residents since the department started using drones, perhaps because many see the benefits the technology offers.

There hasnt been [much] because I started off during Harvey showing footage, showing water levels and doing search and rescue a whole lot. I was buzzing rooftops with someone over my shoulder radioing in what we were seeing, Boggus said.

He said he tries to take the drones out into the community to show people and to dispel the negative rap the devices tend to get because of privacy concerns.

I go to lemonade stands and show the technology, so they get to see the practical uses of it, that were not using it to spy in the backyard or look at someones wife or whatever or follow people around, Boggus said.

Every time a department drone is used, Schultz said it is well documented, listing where the drone went and why it was deployed.

He said so far, the department has deployed the drones about half a dozen times and that one was used about six weeks ago to inspect what was going on at a potential active shooter situation at Bunker Hill Elementary.

As we were trying to determine if that was real or not, we would launch a drone very quickly and start doing assessments to see, Do we have something? So as officers are starting to search, we can do a very quick 360 search from overhead, Schultz said. It improved our response time and allows you to do assessments.

He also mentioned how recently a drone was used to look for a suspect in an attempted robbery at Memorial City Mall. The suspect ran into the villages on foot, and Schultz said a Houston Police helicopter searched up high while the drone searched from a lower vantage point. Schultz said the suspect got away because someone gave him a ride out of the area.

He said drones add to the effectiveness of the department because they provide some of the benefits of having a helicopter without the huge price tag.

It provides an aerial platform for the officers to assist them. Its everything from checking a large property on an alarm to being able to look for a lost or missing person or an animal, he said. It basically does everything a helicopter or an airplane can do but at a fraction of the cost. Whats nice is that it can be deployed at the site where its needed, so you dont have large travel costs.

tracy.maness@hcnonline.com
Major technology companies including Apple, Facebook and YouTube deleted years of content from conservative conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and his Infowars platforms over allegations of hate speech, a sudden clampdown that is fueling the growing debate over how big technology companies choose to censor.

The move was unusual for its sweep and speed, suggesting a new assertiveness by technology companies that in the past have worked to avoid alienating conservatives, who often assert that left-leaning Silicon Valley is biased against them. The removals appeared to be prompted by more users flagging Infowars content for policy violations.

Jones' shows long have sparked complaints because of many elaborate and unsupported claims, including that mass shootings such as the 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary may have been staged and that the government orchestrated the Sept. 11 attacks. In July, YouTube banned one of his videos from June entitled "How to Prevent Liberalism," which depicts a man shoving a kid to the ground.

Now Playing: Facebook has supsended Alex Jones, the founder of InfoWars, from it's platform for 30 days concerning content that they say violated its community guidelines. For more on the story here is Zachary Devita. Video: Buzz 60

But in acting against Jones in recent days, the technology companies cited unspecified violations of their rules against hateful language. Facebook said in a statement Monday it was removing four of Jones' pages "for glorifying violence, which violates our graphic violence policy, and using dehumanizing language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies."

Facebook, YouTube and Twitter have long clung to the claim that they are neutral platforms and that they don't want to be in the business of deciding what is true or false. The action echoed the abrupt removal of the accounts of some white supremacists a year ago, a few days after the far-right rallies in Charlottesville, Virginia. But companies are increasingly willing to limit free speech, after the backlash from Charlottesville and Russian manipulation.

The recent actions by the technology companies also highlight the opaque nature of their decision-making, with most not publicly specifying what content by Jones violated their policies or how they decided what posts to block and which to leave online. Jones has treaded close to some definitions of hate speech for years, and it wasn't clear from the companies if or when he finally crossed the line.

Both Facebook and YouTube said that Jones had posted new objectionable content over the weekend that influenced their decision to take the content down.

YouTube said in a statement, "When users violate these policies repeatedly, like our policies against hate speech and harassment or our terms prohibiting circumvention of our enforcement measures, we terminate their accounts."

"Apple does not tolerate hate speech, and we have clear guidelines that creators and developers must follow to ensure we provide a safe environment for all of our users," Apple said in a statement. "We believe in representing a wide range of views, so long as people are respectful to those with differing opinions."

The actions came in a cascade, starting with Spotify removing some podcasts last week. Then, late Sunday, Apple removed the majority of Jones' podcasts from iTunes and its podcast apps. On Monday morning, Facebook followed by blocking four of Jones's pages, and then YouTube deleted his Infowars page, with 2.4 million followers. Both companies had already temporarily suspended InfoWars since late July.

The backlash was swift, with Jones saying in a text message to The Washington Post Monday morning that the removal of his shows amounted to an assault against "the First Amendment in this country as we know it." He blamed China, Democrats, "establishment" Republicans and mainstream news organizations for seeking to mount a "counter-strike against the global awakening."

He warned, "You sold the country out, and now you're going to pay for it."

Some rallied to his side, including those who do not ordinarily support Jones but expressed worry about the power Silicon Valley has rapidly developed to squelch unpopular voices without formal due process or alternatives that are capable of commanding similarly large audiences.

Legal experts said the issues raised by the companies' actions are complex.

"While private platforms aren't bound by the restrictions of the First Amendment -- generally only the government is -- there's a question about how much discretion they should choose to exercise over what speech they allow to flow through them," said Jonathan Zittrain, faculty director of Harvard's Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society. "That question can't be wisely answered without noting how unfortunately central just a few intermediaries are -- like Apple for podcasts, or YouTube, Facebook and Twitter for videos and links."

But technology has also enabled the rise of such polarizing personalities as Jones and Milo Yiannopoulos, who may have struggled to develop large audiences in an era before widespread adoption of social media.

Conservatives have expressed particular fear about the power of technology companies, arguing that the predominantly liberal workforce in Silicon Valley and other industry centers such as Seattle puts them at a disadvantage in the battle for ideas in crucial online spheres.

"Conservatives are increasingly concerned that InfoWars is not the end point for those who want to ban speech. It's just the beginning," said Brent Bozell, President of the conservative Media Research Center based in Reston, Virginia. "I don't support Alex Jones and what InfoWars produces. He's not a conservative. However, banning him and his outlet is wrong. It's not just a slippery slope, it's a dangerous cliff that these social media companies are jumping off."

Twitter stood out Monday as the one of the few social media platforms to not take action against Jones. Twitter has come under particular attack from conservatives who claimed that the company is targeting them as its seeks to weed out fake accounts and automated bot networks. Twitter declined to comment.

Jones, 44, heads what amounts to a sprawling conspiracy theory empire from his base in Austin, Texas, home to The Alex Jones Show, and a variety of Infowars online platforms. That includes a website, Infowars.com, not affected by the actions of recent days.

Jones gained influence in recent years through his support of President Donald Trump, but he also has drawn intense criticism for spreading provocative theories without providing evidence to support them. He claimed that the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School was "completely fake with actors" and now faces defamation lawsuits brought by some of the families whose children were killed there.

He also promoted the false conspiracy theory known as "Pizzagate," involving allegations of a child sex-abuse ring tied to Democratic party officials, eventually prompting a man to fire an AR-15 rifle inside of a pizza restaurant in Washington, D.C. YouTube sanctioned Jones earlier this year for raising questions about whether the teen survivors of the Parkland, Florida, shooting were actors, but didn't delete his channels.

Technology companies have faced growing public pressure since July 18, when Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg, speaking on the tech podcast Recode Decode, defended his company's decision to leave Jones' content up. "The approach that we've taken to false news is not to say, you can't say something wrong on the internet," he said. "I think that that would be too extreme." Zuckerberg then drew a parallel to Holocaust deniers, saying that they weren't "intentionally getting it wrong."

Since then, Silicon Valley companies have received a flood new of reports from users who flagged Jones' content as hate speech, according to people familiar with the companies' deliberations. On July 24, YouTube issued a 90-day strike against Jones for videos that the company said included hate speech against Muslims and transgender people. Facebook followed suit and issued a 30-day ban.

"You are starting to see these platforms act as a coherent field," said Daniel Kreiss, a professor at the school of media and journalism at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. "They are likely all having similar internal debates and watching what each other are doing. There is safety in numbers in that."

After Jones' video channels were banned, he turned to Twitter to direct fans to his podcasts, which were distributed on iTunes, Spotify, and the podcast distribution company Stitcher. Spotify and Stitcher combed through their archive of podcasts and moved last week to ban some.

Sleeping Giants, a social-media activist group that has pressed tech companies to enforce policies on abusive content, praised Apple's move. "Last week, we asked @Apple how the harassment of Sandy Hook parents and Vegas shooting victims didn't violate their Terms of Service. Tonight, they decided that it did. Massive kudos to @Apple for doing what most tech companies have so far refused to do," the group said in a tweet late Sunday.

Some at the tech companies said it appeared felt as if Jones was purposefully trying to test the companies and their policies, by walking right up to a line that they haven't quite made clear, according to three people familiar with deliberations. Executives defend the decision not to share exactly what content violated a policy because they fear it will prompt people to test it.

Sleeping Giants criticized other tech platforms including Facebook and YouTube for announcing their latest moved against Jones only after Apple did. "To say they're now 'silencing voices' is to ignore the fact that they allowed them to be amplified in the first place," the organization tweeted on Monday.
Police are investigating after a man was found shot to death in a house in south central Houston early Sunday morning.

At around 5:30 a.m. Sunday, police responded to a welfare check at 3647 Noah Street in the South Side neighborhood after witnesses reported hearing gunshots, the Houston Police Department stated in a news release.
HPD

The Houston Police Department is searching for a man accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl June 30 at Northline Park and forcing that girl to have sex with a teenage boy in front of him.

The alleged assault occurred around 2 a.m. while the girl and a teenage boy, were eating in a car, ABC13 reported.
The investigation in the Bihar shelter home case is on and let the truth come out first.

Patna: Facing stiff criticism over the Muzaffarpur shelter home sexual abuse case, chief minister Nitish Kumar on Monday slammed the Opposition parties for taking political mileage over the issue.

He said that political leaders who have been raising the issue were not concerned about girls who have suffered. The incident is sensitive but most of the leaders who participated in the protest at the Jantar Mantar were seen smiling. They are doing this only to divert attention from the corruption issue.

Opposition parties have been blaming Nitish Kumar of shielding political leaders including social welfare minister Manju Verma whose husbands name had surfaced in the case.

Besides RJD, two prominent BJP leaders from Bihar  C.P. Thakur and Gopal Narayan Singh  have also started raising their demands for the resignation of Manju Verma for her links with the shelter home case.

On Monday, while clarifying his stand on the issue, chief minister Nitish Kumar said, Nobody involved in the case will be spared. Even if someone closely related to the social welfare minister is involved they wont be spared.

The investigation in the Bihar shelter home case is on and let the truth come out first. We spoke to the minister but she has denied any involvement. It is not justified to level baseless allegations on her.

The name of ministers husband had surfaced last month after Sheeba Kumari Singh wife of child protection officer Ravi Raushan who was arrested for his involvement in the case claimed that he used to visit the shelter home frequently.
No one believed Eugene Parker in 1958 when he first hypothesized the existence of solar wind.

In fact, his fellow scientists told him the idea that solar wind could force plasma and other particles from the sun into space, impacting Earth, was nonsense  that is, until early space missions proved it was true.

Now, 60 years after Parkers hypothesis, NASA finally is launching a mission to study this phenomenon. And that mission, called the Parker Solar Probe, is named after him.

Asked how he felt about it last week at a University of Chicago livestreamed event, Parker said it feels good.

Scheduled to launch Saturday from Cape Canaveral, Fla., the probe will rocket into the suns atmosphere, called the corona, where it will face upward of a million degrees Fahrenheit and transmit data about Earths star back to scientists on the ground. NASAs launch window for the probe is through Aug. 23.

The $1.6 billion, seven-year mission seeks to improve predictions of major space weather events that impact Earth as well as astronauts living on the International Space Station. These events can impact satellite orbits, as well as disrupt radio signals and other technology.

This unmanned spacecraft will be the first-ever visit to the sun, a mission that scientists say is long overdue.

Weve been studying the sun for decades, and now were finally going to go where the action is, said Alex Young, associate director for science for NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center Heliophysics Science Division in Maryland.

Eruptions and radiation

Though the sun appears to be unchanging from Earth, it actually has a very turbulent surface where eruptions and radiation bursts launch solar material at high speed throughout the solar system, according to Astrobiology Magazine.

Just above the surface, the corona  or the suns atmosphere  roils with plasma, and stretches for millions of miles, eventually moving further away from the sun as solar wind, the magazine stated.

This solar wind creates the beautiful aurora borealis (also known as Northern Lights), but it also disrupts Earths atmosphere  garbling radio signals and other technology  and makes space inhospitable for astronauts by exposing them to radiation, Young said last week.

Were living in the dynamic suns atmosphere. Were living in solar wind, he said.

And the more NASA understands how the solar wind works, the more it can mitigate these effects.

Scientists around the world have tried to study this topic for decades, but the great distance between their instruments and the solar winds origins make it difficult to get appropriate measurements, NASA stated.

The key is getting close up, tracing the solar wind back to its source  and Parker Solar Probe will do just that, NASAs website stated

The suns energy

The Parker Solar Probe is about the size of a small car and will travel into the solar atmosphere, about 4 million miles away from the suns surface.

During its seven-year mission, NASA hopes the spacecraft sheds light on how and when solar winds accelerate to supersonic speeds. Data shows that this happens in the corona, but NASA wants to know how.

Officials also hope to learn more about why the suns corona has such a high temperature. The surface of the sun is about 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit, but the corona can spike up to several million degrees Fahrenheit  NASA officials say this is counterintuitive, as the suns energy is produced at its core.

Its also counter to what happens on Earth. The majority of Earths atmosphere gets colder as elevation increases.

NASA has outfitted the probe with numerous instruments to study these phenomena, including six to measure the solar winds, as well as the suns electric and magnetic fields.

One of the reasons it has taken NASA about 60 years to build this spacecraft is because technology was not advanced enough to protect a probe from the Suns blazing heat. But now, scientists think theyve worked it out.

A 4.5-inch thick, 8-foot diameter carbon shield protects the probe (and the instruments inside it) from the heat and energy of the corona. This shielding will protect the probe from temperatures upward of 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The spacecraft on the other side of the shield will remain at a balmy 85 degrees Fahrenheit, NASA stated.

Parker said last week hes most excited to learn about the heating of the sun and the solar wind.

I cant say any more because I havent seen the data, he said. Its the anticipation of the activity in the wind, particularly the heating.

Scientists expect to receive the first data transmissions from the probe as early as December, though most will come in May 2019.

This probe is the first time NASA has named a mission after a living person.

Its about time we went up to see our own star, said Nicky Fox, the projects scientist at Maryland-based Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. Johns Hopkins is in charge of designing, building and operating the spacecraft.

alex.stuckey@chron.com

twitter.com/alexdstuckey
Four relatives of a man convicted in a pair of honor killings portrayed him Monday as generous, doting and loyal, as his lawyers began making their case to jurors that he should be sentenced to life in prison rather than death for separate 2012 slayings of his son-in-law and his daughters best friend.

Two weeks ago, the state District Court jury convicted Ali Mahwood-Awad Irsan, 60, in the shooting deaths of Coty Beavers, 28, and Gelareh Bagherzadeh, 30. Prosecutors said Irsan, who is Muslim, planned the slayings to restore the family honor after his daughter married a Christian.

Two of the defendants younger sisters traveled from his native Jordan to testify for the defense Monday and several other relatives are expected to testify later this week via videolink from abroad. Despite his lawyers advice to the contrary, Irsan chose to testify during the guilt phase of the trial. His lawyers have not yet determined if will take the stand again later this week as testimony comes to an end.

His 53-year old sister Insaf Rawabdeh, a food testing engineer who wore a hijab, locked eyes with her brother when defense lawyer Allen Tanners asked how his client treated her. A broad smile spread across her face. He was the most compassionate, affectionate person, and he was the best person in the world for me, she told jurors through an Arabic translator.

She said he was solicitous when she had complications during a pregnancy and years later offered money to get her son out of jail.

He was very affectionate to everybody and generous even if he has something in his mouth he would give it away, she said.

Under cross examination, she admitted that she didnt see her brother often after he left Jordan in the late 1970s.

Isaf Rawabdeh, 58, a retired school principal also wearing a hijab, told jurors through an interpreter the defendant was one of 10 children raised in a home where their father beat his wife and children with any object at hand, but usually a belt or shoe.

She patted her eyes with a tissue as she explained that when their father, an illiterate soldier and devout Muslim, beat their mother the defendant would put himself in between his parents.

He used to tell him, Hit me. Hit me. Dont hit my mom, she said.

He worked hard selling vegetables and his father ultimately kicked him out of the house, his sister said. But Irsan still paid for two family funerals, and when he received inheritance money after his fathers death, he gave it to his mother, she testified.

A prosecutor later questioned her about where he got the money to cover family needs if he didnt have a job. She said she did not know.

Rawabedeh also told the jury that when the defendant and his first wife, Robin, came to live with her in Jordan, she observed how loving and attentive he was. Since Robin is blind, her brother helped her eat and go to the bathroom and washed her clothes, which surprised Rawabedeh, she said, because it is uncommon for a man to do that in Jordan.

Rawabedeh denied earlier testimony by Irsans daughter that she had been sexually assaulted by another brother, calling her a liar.

Two of Irsans sons, who testified previously, also took the stand denying earlier testimony that their father supported the 9/11 attacks or Osama Bin Laden. Nile Irsan, 22, also said his father never beat his mother or sisters, as previous witnesses had testified. He treated his daughters like queens or princesses, Nile said.

Nader Irsan, 20, told the jury he thought of his father as a candle: It gives light to others around it at the expense of burning itself down.
A majority of Harris County voters say they will support a $2.5 billion flood infrastructure bond at the polls later this month, according to University of Houston research released Monday.

Sixty-two percent of residents who said they are certain to vote said they will support the bond, compared to 55 percent of all respondents. Just 10 percent said they oppose the bond, while one-third remain unsure.

"People see flooding as a Houston and Harris County problem, not a problem affecting only certain neighborhoods or people," Jim Granato, executive director of UH's Hobby School of Public Affairs, said in a statement. "They believe the region's future will be decided, at least in part, by how we respond."

The bond would be the largest local investment in flood management post-Hurricane Harvey and include channel improvements, detention basins, drainage projects and thousands of home buyouts in the floodplain.

The Hobby School of Public Affairs polled 815 residents between June 26 and July 31. The margin of error is 3.4 percent. Only 36 percent of residents said they will definitely cast a ballot.

MORE: Residents give flood control officials an earful at flood bond public meetings

Residents who sustained property damage from Hurricane Harvey were slightly more likely to support the bond than those who remained dry, 60 percent to 52 percent.

Partisanship appears to play little role in residents' views on the bond, as 58 percent of Republicans and 63 percent of Democrats support the proposal, which has wide support elected officials from both parties.

Sixty-nine percent of college-educated residents said they'll vote yes, while the poll found residents 65 and older support the bond to the tune of 58 percent. Seniors whose homes are worth less than $200,000, as well as residents who are disabled, would not see their taxes rise because of the bond.

Just 18 percent of the youngest polling cohort, residents 18 to 25, said they support the bond, though 59 percent professed they remain unsure.

PREPPING PROPOSAL: Harris County pieces together flood bond projects, millions at a time, in Harvey's wake

JUDGE'S PLEDGE: Emmett promises public will have input on $2.5B flood bond

Harris County residents found most agreement when asked whether Austin should help the region's recovery by tapping into the state's Rainy Day Fund. Almost 88 percent said the Abbott administration should.

The Hobby School also polled residents on flood mitigation strategies in February. In that round of questions, a third of residents said they sustained serious flood damage from Harvey, and more than half said the monster storm negatively affected their household finances.

Early voting on the bond begins Wednesday, and Election Day is Aug. 25  the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Harvey. The Harris County Flood Control District said it plans to release a final list of projects that would be funded by the bond on Monday.

Pablo Pinto, director of the Center for Public Policy at the Hobby School, said in a statement that the polling suggests residents are accepting that flooding has become a regular, persistent problem in the region.

"They are worried that the image of roads and houses submerged by floodwaters will make Houston less attractive to future residents and businesses," he said. "This really is a change in attitude."

Zach Despart covers Harris County for the Chronicle. You can follow him on Twitter or email him at zach.despart@chron.com.
Gov. Greg Abbott deleted a tweet with a fake Winston Churchill quote on Tuesday.

Abbot shared an image of the British wartime leader with the quote, "The fascists of the future will call themselves anti-fascists."

"Some insights are timeless," Abbott wrote along with the tweet.

The falsely-attributed Churchill quote led to a public outcry of fact-checking and jokes. It's unclear who the quote actually belongs to.

ICYMI: Gov. Greg Abbott warns of socialism, says Bernie Sanders used to be the 'crazy uncle in the attic'

Now Playing: FOX 4 News reports. Video: Fox4

Several hours after posting it, the governor deleted the tweet and cleared up the early morning blunder in a statement to reporters, according to Texas Tribune reporter Patrick Svitek.

"Listen, what I tweeted was a sentiment that I have, and that is Antifa is dangerous to society and Antifa is the antithesis of safety and security," Abbott said. "And they are antagonists to law enforcement as well as to other people."

"It was irrelevant to me who may or may not have said that in the past," Abbott said. "I didn't want to be accused of plagiarism for saying it. If no one else said it, attribute the quote to me because it's what I believe in."

Fernando Ramirez covers Texas news and politics. Read him on our breaking news site and on our subscriber site. | Fernando.ramirez@chron.com | @fernramirez93




The 94-year-old DMK patriarch has been in ICU since July 28 when he was rushed following a dip in his blood pressure.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) supporters gather outside the hospital where DMK chief M. Karunanidhi is being treated in Chennai. (Photo: PTI)

Chennai: DMK president M. Karunanidhis health declined seriously on Monday with officials at Kauvery Hospital revealing that maintaining his vital organ functions was becoming a challenge and adding that the next 24 hours could be critical.

The 94-year-old DMK patriarch has been in ICU since July 28 when he was rushed following a dip in his blood pressure.

There has been a decline in the medical condition of M. Karunanidhi. Maintaining his vital organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age related ailments, said Kauverys executive director Dr Aravindan Selvaraj in a bulletin released at 6.30 pm.

The entire family was at ICU except his wife Dayalu Ammal who was brought in a wheelchair earlier in the day to Kauvery to meet him briefly.
Sixteen years from now, when my son applies to college, odds are that he wont be asked about his race or where his parents went to college. Hell confront a starkly different admissions landscape than I did in the early 2000s, when many universities took race into account to build diverse student bodies. When I applied to Harvard, my identity as a black woman was probably a mark in my favor. At the same time, my lack of any familial connection to the school surely did me no favors at a university that admits legacy applicants at more than five times the rate of non-legacies.

That may be changing. Affirmative action policies are in greater danger than ever thanks to an all-but-secure conservative Supreme Court majority, the Trump administrations reversal of the Obama administrations policies on the issue and a legal challenge that claims Harvards admissions process discriminates against Asian students. As commentators have considered the potential fallout of outlawing affirmative action, many have trained their sights on legacy admissions as a system that perpetuates the kind of inequality for which affirmative action seeks to correct. The increased scrutiny of legacy admissions is entirely appropriate  those who deride the practice as a back-door affirmative action program for privileged white students arent wrong. But in 2018, white college applicants arent the only ones who benefit from admissions preferences for the children of alumni.

EDITORIAL: Dont lose sleep over college rankings

While the likely end of affirmative action is a more obvious setback for diversity and racial justice, the potential elimination of legacy preferences would also be a loss for at least some people of color. Its been only a few decades since we were welcomed into predominantly white colleges and universities in any significant numbers; weve had only a generation or two to begin building our own legacies. So for some of us, the moral rightness of ending legacy preferences to create a more equitable admissions process comes with a bittersweet edge: It adds one more thing to the pile of privileges that people of color cant pass down to our children as easily as untold generations of whites have done.

Thanks in part to affirmative action policies, the decades from the 1970s onward saw a significant increase in the admission of students of color at American colleges and universities. From just 1996 to 2012, college enrollment among Hispanic students more than tripled, and black student enrollment rose 72 percent. In 2014, Harvard admitted the most black students in its history, and in 2017, the majority of the schools incoming class was nonwhite. As waves of college graduates of color have gone on to have families, these demographic trends have created a growing pipeline of legacies of color who would receive admissions boosts at their parents alma maters.

EDITORIAL: Trumps disdain for affirmative action could kill college diversity programs

For underrepresented black, Latino and Native American alumni, the prospect of our children finally being able to lay claim to the legacy advantage after hundreds of years of being shut out feels hard-won and precious. While I grew up solidly middle class, I didnt have generations worth of connections to grease the wheels for my entrance to an elite institution like Harvard. One of my great-grandfathers had only a sixth-grade education, and my great-grandmother never finished high school. On the other side of my family, my grandparents went to a Southern historically black college in the 1940s and early 1950s, well before any elite white universities began the process of full integration. I wasnt the first generation to go to college, but my entrance into one of the oldest and most respected universities in the world lifted me - and by extension my family  into an echelon of privilege to which, until then, we hadnt yet been granted access. And when I had my son, I was warmed by the thought that when the time came for him to apply, the path to Harvard might be just a bit smoother because I had gone before him.

Its frustrating but not entirely surprising that legacy admissions stand to be eliminated just as people of color might begin to reap the benefits. The very word legacy evokes ancestors handing down something valuable from one generation to the next, and American institutions are not historically known for promoting the intergenerational accumulation of wealth, achievement or privilege among people of color. The black middle class in particular is notoriously fragile, with structural barriers to things like homeownership putting even the children of economically successful parents at significant risk of backsliding into poverty. The Brookings Institution reported in 2015 that most black middle class kids are downwardly mobile, as 7 in 10 black Americans born into families within the middle income quintile will fall into one of the two lower quintiles as adults. Even wealthy people of color have a harder time making their socioeconomic status stick across generations: A recent study found that while most white children who grow up in wealthy households will remain wealthy or at least upper middle class in adulthood, most black children raised in wealthy households wont, with 38 percent ultimately ending up lower middle class or poor. Native American and Hispanic families similarly struggle with disproportionate rates of downward mobility. And now we may not be able to pass down any advantage in the admissions game, either.

As elite colleges report admissions rates that seem to be inching ever nearer to zero percent, its tempting to wish that they would hang on to the legacy practice a little while longer so that my son and other children of color might someday benefit. After all, where a person goes to school matters not only in terms of warm and fuzzy alumni pride but in terms of cash: Graduates of Ivy League and other top colleges, on average, enjoy salaries tens of thousands of dollars higher than those from other schools. Given the very real financial stakes tied to elite college admissions, I  like any parent  want the best possible chance for my child.

But social justice, in education and elsewhere, demands that a policys advantages for me should not be the sole factor driving my support or opposition. Rather, the collective good should take precedent, and the research is clear that legacy admissions do not further that good. Whatever the incidental benefit to a handful of people of color, legacy admissions preferences primarily serve to advantage the advantaged: The overwhelming majority of beneficiaries continue to be white and often wealthy applicants who do not need another leg up in the world. With schools like Harvard and others filling huge portions of their classes with legacies, students from less-privileged backgrounds - including minorities - have been crowded out. Thus, even as the children of the relatively few alumni of color may have found their way into the ranks of accepted students, in practical effect, legacy preferences have just reinforced existing racial and economic hierarchies.

RELATED: How to make sure your college admissions offer sticks

It does seem a shame to lose a potential engine of intergenerational prosperity, however limited, just when a critical mass of minority children stands to benefit. But especially without affirmative action as a countervailing force, the continued existence of legacy preferences will be indefensible among those who hope for increased educational opportunity for all people of color - not just those who were born into it. Much more than I want my son to walk an easier path to the Ivy League, I want a higher-education system that welcomes new and diverse families. Instead of him gaining an advantage on a college application, Id rather see him inherit a fairer world.

Lattimore is a writer and lawyer based in Philadelphia.
We look at some of the leading companies that have embraced the new normal of remote work
Content

Tables Table 1. Population profile of study villages 6 Table 2. Fishing units and safety equipment in use in the cyclone affected villages 7 Table 3. Fishermen casualties in Cyclone Ockhi 8 Table 4. Criteria for classification of cyclonic disturbances 13 iv Boxes

Institutions for cyclone forecasting and dissemination of warnings 11

Contents

Acknowledgements v

Abbreviations vii

Executive summary ix

Introduction

Objectives 3

Methodology 4

National and regional disaster profile 9

Institutions for cyclone forecasting and dissemination of warnings 11

Emergency response: disaster management authorities 15

Cyclone Ockhi: 29 November  6 December 2017 20

Sea safety in ongoing disaster risk management projects 26

Policy framework for fishermens safety 27

Regulatory compliance of fishing vessels 30

Emergency communication technology 33

Conclusion 39

Recommendations 40

Endnotes 44

References 46

Annexure 50

Glossary 57

Tables

Table 1. Population profile of study villages 6

Table 2. Fishing units and safety equipment in use in the

cyclone affected villages 7

Table 3. Fishermen casualties in Cyclone Ockhi 8

Table 4. Criteria for classification of cyclonic disturbances 13

iv

Boxes



Box I. State level cyclone warning dissemination structure 14

Box II. Kerala State Disaster Management Plan 2016 16

Box III. Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Plan 2016 17

Box IV. Cyclone timeline 18

Box V. Disaster risk management and safety at sea in the Small-scale Fisheries

Guidelines 29

Box VI. Monitoring, Control and Surveillance:

The Sri Lankan experience 32

Box VII. Post-Ockhi disaster risk reduction measures 38

Box VIII. Recommendations by the disaster affected community 43

Maps

Map 1. Study locations 5

Map 2. Cyclone track from Comorin Sea to Lakshadweep Islands 23

Map 3. Position of nearshore fishers during the cyclone 24

Map 4. Cyclone track over Lakshadweep Islands 25
President Ram Nath Kovind said the real value of education lies in how we learn to help fellow human beings and not in degrees.

Inaugurating the centenary celebrations of St Thomas College, he said the community's heritage and history was a matter of 'immense pride' for the country. (Photo: File)

Thrissur (Kerala): President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday praised the Christian community in Kerala, saying it was a symbol of India's non-negotiable commitment to diversity and pluralism.

Inaugurating the centenary celebrations of St Thomas College, he said the community's heritage and history was a matter of "immense pride" for the country.

"The Christian community in Kerala is one of the oldest not only in India but anywhere else in the world," the president noted.

Kovind said the real value of education lies in how we learn to help fellow human beings and not in degrees.

The greatest service to God is to help another person, to heal another person and to spread the light of knowledge and St Thomas College has been part of this noble culture, he said.

Last year during his visit to Ethiopia, President said he was moved as people there remembered the services of Indian teachers, many of them from Kerala and from the community, who had educated generations of Ethiopian children.

The college is the alma mater of two former Kerala chief ministers -- EMS Namboodiripad and C Achutha Menon. Spiritual leader Swami Chinmayananda was once a student here, Kovind said.

The security near the centenary celebrations venue was on high alert as a temple priest, in an inebriated state on Monday, threatened to blow up the college. The man had been arrested.
Kalaignars second biggest achievement in these last 50 years is to run the DMK in a democratic manner.

Though Karunanidhi was himself a strong and charismatic leader, he never spoke down to his cadres and moved with them as an equal. (Photo: File)

By D. Ravikumar

During M. K. Stalins recent Cauvery walk we visited his father Kalaignars ancestral home in Thirukkuvalai, near Tiruvarur. One look at his house and its surroundings, I was left wondering how such a big leader like Karunanidhi could have emerged from such a remote and backward village.

Tiruvarur has been a very backward district with high poverty ratio and little development. Only now a central university has come up here. Geography determines a persons life more than history and that is why there is hardly any opportunity for students from rural areas, even if there is talent to make a mark. The rural-urban divide is sharp even now.

Fidel Castro used to say history will absolve me. In a country like ours, we are not sure whether geography will absolve us even if history does. Imagine how Thirukkuvalai must have been 100 years ago if it is so backward even today. That a person from such a village could determine the destiny of Tamil Nadu for nearly 50 years is itself a major achievement. Karunanidhis success is that something emerged out of this milieu, despite its desolate geography.

Secondly, he has been the president of the DMK for 50 years. In Indian democracy, any elected government can be democratic only to the extent the parties in the electoral system are democratic. If power goes to a political party that is undemocratic, we cannot expect to have democratic governance.

Read: DMK chief Karunanidhi passes away at 94 in Chennai

The AIADMK has been an authoritarian party almost from the beginning, whether it was headed by MGR or Jayalalithaa. There were no norms for changing functionaries in the party and in the ministry; the boss decided it all.

So, this authoritarian streak was reflected in their governance also. In the garb of populism, they (AIADMK) gave only an authoritarian rule in Tamil Nadu. The roots of it were in the authoritarian structure of the party itself. They would try to run the government as they ran the party. Even bureaucrats were treated like party district secretaries who could be changed at will.

From that standpoint, if you make a comparative study, Kalaignars second biggest achievement in these last 50 years is to run the DMK in a democratic manner. There is still inner party democracy in the DMK where elections are held for party posts.

On several occasions, people whom Karunanidhi did not like have become district secretaries. They can contest in the internal party elections and occupy such positions. This is the case with influential ministers at the district level where candidates opposed to the choice of the local minister could win party positions through election.

Read: Karunanidhi, DMKs captain of 50 years returns to pavilion

Such a democratic practice has been there only in the DMK in Tamil Nadu. I wonder, whether even the Left parties have this level of inner party democracy.

The relationship between the leader and the cadres is another aspect. Personality cult has been the bane of all major parties in India. They strictly maintain the hierarchy. The personality cult made the relationship between the leader and the cadre as one of deity-devotee. But as far as Karunanidhi was concerned, whether it was a district secretary or any other office bearer, they could even joke with him while in conversation. You cant find this in any other leader today in India.

Karunanidhi would also share a joke with his party men. He would listen to the opinion of party member, even if he was a first time MLA. Though Karunanidhi was himself a strong and charismatic leader, he never spoke down to his cadres and moved with them as an equal. This is his third most important achievement.

Karunanidhi was also a multi-faceted, talented personality among the political leaders of the country. He was a school dropout and yet he was well-versed with Tamil classical literature which even todays Tamil professors may not be knowing.

He has written commentaries for classical texts like Tirukkural. He had good knowledge and scholarship in all forms of Tamil literature from classical to modern times. This is a very important facet of the man for any political leader in Tamil Nadu today.

Kalaignar had a connect with the long tradition of Tamil culture. His government took steps to propagate ideals of Thiruvalluvar, as much as hold Indra Vizha at Poompuhar to commemorate the Tamil epic Silapathikaram.

All this was possible because of his deep understanding of Tamil culture which was also reflected in governance. His government celebrated Tamil scholars like Mu. Varadarasanar and Avvai Natarajan as Vice-Chancellors of universities, while Karunanidhis contribution to Tamil culture has even exceeded that of the Tamil scholars.

He connected the power of the chief ministers office creatively to enhance Tamil literature and culture. His contribution to Tamil is even greater than what a scholar like E. M. S. Namboodiripaad had done to Keralas culture when the latter was chief minister.

Karunanidhis perspective was so intertwined with political modernity that he could even use cinema creatively. His outlook as a rationalist also ensured he did not compromise with religious fundamental forces. He used to ask bold questions even when DMK was in alliance with the BJP.

Next was his approach to the self-respect movement whose core idea was equality and social justice. He never cared for caste names. He tried to institutionalise the notion of equality through the establishment of Samathuvapurams because of his deep commitment to that ideal as a rationalist. Even Mayawati, follower of Dr. Ambedkar, had become chief minister thrice but did little in bringing equality into governance.

Karunanidhis another very big achievement was in creating awareness about states rights and federalism at the national level which in turn should help strengthen the notions democratic framework.

(Writer is author, poet and general secretary of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi)
Imperial Valley News Center

Issuance of Death Notices in Syria

Washington, DC - The Syrian regimes recent notices confirming the deaths of thousands of political prisoners in its custody affirms what the international community has long suspected and can never forget: the regime has systematically arrested, tortured, and murdered tens of thousands of Syrian civilians in response to their legitimate and nonviolent calls for their freedom, rights, and political reforms.

Since the Syrian uprising began in 2011, at least 117,000 Syrians have been detained or forcibly disappeared, according to numerous human rights organizations. The vast majority of them are believed to be in regime custody, across a network of prisons where regime officials torture and murder civilians to intimidate and silence any opposition to Assads rule. Extensive documentation and other evidence of this torture and murder is being collected by international organizations, and support the worlds continued condemnation of the Syrian regime and prosecution of culpable officials in various courts. The United States strongly reiterates its condemnation of the Assad regimes cruel actions and calls on it to adhere to international laws and norms pertaining to the treatment of prisoners, including by allowing access for independent monitors. We will continue to work with the international community to investigate and shed light on these nefarious activities and work to hold those responsible accountable.
Imperial Valley News Center

Kids Are Free at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park Throughout October

San Diego, California - Throughout the entire month of October, all children 11 years old and younger are invited to visit the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park for free! As part of Kids Free presented by Mission Fed, Zoo and Safari Park guests will get the chance to observe amazing creatures, experience a fun day with family and learn how everyone can help animals through conservation.

On Saturdays and Sundays in October, visitors at the Zoo and Safari Park can experience special kid-friendly activities and animal encounters. Guests at both parks will be able to watch as special fall-themed items, including pumpkins and gourds, are given to some of the animals as tasty treats. For more details about Kids Free, visit sandiegozoo.org/kidsfree.

San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Kids 11 years of age and younger will be offered free admission at both the Zoo and Safari Park from October 1 through October 31, 2018, with special activities scheduled every weekend. Throughout the month of October, operating hours at the Zoo are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and hours at the Safari Park are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

All children younger than 15 must be accompanied by a paid adult during their visits to the Zoo and the Safari Park.

Bringing species back from the brink of extinction is the goal of San Diego Zoo Global. As a leader in conservation, the work of San Diego Zoo Global includes on-site wildlife conservation efforts (representing both plants and animals) at the San Diego Zoo, San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, as well as international field programs on six continents. The work of these entities is inspiring children through the San Diego Zoo Kids network, reaching out through the internet and in childrens hospitals nationwide. The work of San Diego Zoo Global is made possible by the San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy and is supported in part by the Foundation of San Diego Zoo Global.
WCD minister asks states to build centre run by it, not NGOs.

New Delhi: In the aftermath of the alleged sexual assault of minor girls in Muzaffarpur and Deoria, Union women and child development minister Maneka Gandhi on Monday asked states to build a single large central facility to house such children in a bid to prevent abuse and misuse by NGOs.

Ms Gandhi highlighted that the adoption and skill development programmes in a central facility would be much easier and it would also help in checking abuse and misuse by NGOs who are running their own shelter homes with grants from the government. I have been asking for a scheme where each state should have a single large facility to house all such girls and children and which should be run by the state government, said the minister.

Ms Gandhi suggested that other homes in the state should only provide temporary shelter to women, girls, and children in distress after clearance by the child welfare committee.

Her suggestion came in the backdrop of the recent alleged sexual abuse of minor girls in Muzzafarpur in Bihar and Deoria in Uttar Pradesh. She also said that the women and child development ministry would be happy to fund the construction of these facilities in each state and then hand it over to the state government.

In the first case, about 34 minor girls were allegedly sexually abused at the shelter home in Muzaffarpur, with medical reports confirming rape.

The second case of sexual assault against girls in Deoria came to light on Sunday when a 10-year-old girl managed to flee from the shelter home and informed them about the plight of the inmates, who were reportedly sexually abused by the couple running the shelter home.
Imperial Valley News Center

President Donald J. Trump Approves California Disaster Declaration

Washington, DC - Saturday, President Donald J. Trump declared that a major disaster exists in the State of California and ordered Federal assistance to supplement State, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires and high winds beginning on July 23, 2018, and continuing.

The Presidents action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in Shasta County.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding also is available to State, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the wildfires and high winds in Shasta County.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Brock Long, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Department of Homeland Security, named William Roche as the Federal Coordinating Officer for Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Damage assessments are continuing in other areas, and additional counties may be designated for assistance after the assessments are fully completed.

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated counties can begin applying for assistance by registering online at http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA(3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.
Imperial Valley News Center

President Donald J. Trump is Reimposing Sanctions Lifted Under the Horrible Iran Deal

Washington, DC - "Our policy is based on a clear-eyed assessment of the Iranian dictatorship, its sponsorship of terrorism, and its continuing aggression in the Middle East and all around the world." ~ President Donald J. Trump

REIMPOSING TOUGH SANCTIONS: President Donald J. Trumps Administration is taking action to reimpose sanctions lifted under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

President Trump made clear when he ended United States participation in the JCPOA that his Administration would be reimposing tough sanctions on the Iranian regime. In connection with the withdrawal from the JCPOA, the Administration laid out two wind-down periods of 90 days and 180 days for business activities in or involving Iran.

Consistent with President Trumps decision, the Administration will be reimposing specified sanctions after August 6, the final day of the 90-day wind-down period.

On August 7, sanctions will be reimposed on: The purchase or acquisition of United States bank notes by the Government of Iran. Irans trade in gold and other precious metals. Graphite, aluminum, steel, coal, and software used in industrial processes. Transactions related to the Iranian rial. Activities relating to Irans issuance of sovereign debt Irans automotive sector.

The remaining sanctions will be reimposed on November 5, including sanctions on: Irans port operators and energy, shipping, and shipbuilding sectors. Irans petroleum-related transactions. Transactions by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.

The Administration will also relist hundreds of individuals, entities, vessels, and aircraft that were previously included on sanctions lists.

ENSURING FULL ENFORCEMENT: President Trump will continue to stand up to the Iranian regimes aggression, and the United States will fully enforce the reimposed sanctions.

The Iranian regime has exploited the global financial system to fund its malign activities. The regime has used this funding to support terrorism, promote ruthless regimes, destabilize the region, and abuse the human rights of its own people.

The Trump Administration intends to fully enforce the sanctions reimposed against Iran, and those who fail to wind down activities with Iran risk severe consequences.

Since the President announced his decision on May 8 to withdraw from the JCPOA, the Administration has sanctioned 38 Iran-related targets in six separate actions.

PROTECTING OUR NATIONAL SECURITY: The JCPOA was defective at its core and failed to guarantee the safety of the American people.
President Trump on the Reimposition of United States Sanctions with Respect to Iran

Washington, DC - Statement from the President on the Re-imposition of United States Sanctions with Respect to Iran:

Today, the United States is taking action to reimpose nuclear-related sanctions with respect to Iran that were lifted in connection with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action of July 14, 2015 (the JCPOA). These actions include reimposing sanctions on Irans automotive sector and on its trade in gold and precious metals, as well as sanctions related to the Iranian rial. These measures will take effect on August 7, 2018.

All remaining United States nuclear-related sanctions will resume effective November 5, 2018. These include sanctions targeting Irans energy sector, including petroleum-related transactions, as well as transactions by foreign financial institutions with the Central Bank of Iran.

The United States is fully committed to enforcing all of our sanctions, and we will work closely with nations conducting business with Iran to ensure complete compliance. Individuals or entities that fail to wind down activities with Iran risk severe consequences.

I am pleased that many international firms have already announced their intent to leave the Iranian market, and several countries have indicated that they will reduce or end imports of Iranian crude oil. We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

My actions today  including my signing of an Executive Order entitled Reimposing Certain Sanctions with Respect to Iran  are consistent with National Security Presidential Memorandum-11 of May 8, 2018, announcing the withdrawal of the United States from the JCPOA.

The JCPOA, a horrible, one-sided deal, failed to achieve the fundamental objective of blocking all paths to an Iranian nuclear bomb, and it threw a lifeline of cash to a murderous dictatorship that has continued to spread bloodshed, violence, and chaos.

Since the deal was reached, Irans aggression has only increased. The regime has used the windfall of newly accessible funds it received under the JCPOA to build nuclear-capable missiles, fund terrorism, and fuel conflict across the Middle East and beyond.

To this day, Iran threatens the United States and our allies, undermines the international financial system, and supports terrorism and militant proxies around the world.

By exiting the JCPOA, the United States is able to protect its national security by applying maximum economic pressure on the Iranian regime. To date, my Administration has issued 17 rounds of Iran-related sanctions, designating 145 companies and individuals. Since my announcement on May 8 withdrawing the United States from the JCPOA, my Administration has sanctioned 38 Iran-related targets in six separate actions. Reimposition of nuclear-related sanctions through todays actions further intensifies pressure on Tehran to change its conduct.

As we continue applying maximum economic pressure on the Iranian regime, I remain open to reaching a more comprehensive deal that addresses the full range of the regimes malign activities, including its ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism. The United States welcomes the partnership of likeminded nations in these efforts.

The United States continues to stand with the long-suffering Iranian people, who are the rightful heirs to Irans rich heritage and the real victims of the regimes policies. We look forward to the day when the people of Iran, and all people across the region, can prosper together in safety and peace.
Visit of President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya

Washington, DC - President Donald J. Trump will welcome President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya to the White House on August 27. Kenya is a vital partner of the United States, and President Trump looks forward to discussing ways to broaden the strategic partnership based on our shared democratic values and mutual interests.

The meeting between the two leaders will reaffirm the longstanding relationship between the United States and Kenya as a cornerstone of peace and stability in Africa and the broader Indo-Pacific region. President Trump and President Kenyatta will explore ways to bolster trade and investment between the two countries, while strengthening security cooperation.
It's not impossible to land your dream job at one of the nation's biggest tech companies -- but be prepared for a long and rigorous process.

To gain insight into the interview experience at some of tech's most important companies, the career-data site Comparably surveyed 6,463 current employees at Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Google, and Microsoft.

Comparably found that the process varies considerably from company to company. At Apple, candidates should "expect to be turned away a few times" and know that it might take "a few years" to land a job, while at Facebook, engineers can show up for an interview in "whatever is most comfortable," including a T-shirt and jeans.

Here's how current employees rated the interview process at five of the biggest tech companies in the world.

Employees rated Apple and Microsoft as having the best interview processes overall.

A visitor at Apple Park, Apple's new headquarters in Cupertino, California. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Employees gave Apple and Microsoft the highest ratings when it comes to the overall interview process.

Apple -- 90 out of 100

Microsoft -- 90 out of 100

Google -- 88 out of 100

Amazon -- 87 out of 100

Facebook -- 83 out of 100

Google employees said their interview process was "difficult."

An employee at Google's headquarters. M. Spencer Green/AP

Most Google employees surveyed found the interview process to be difficult or very difficult. In contrast, 30% of Amazon employees described the process as easy or very easy.

Amazon

Very difficult -- 17%

Difficult -- 24%

Average -- 29%

Easy -- 17%

Very easy -- 13%

Apple

Very difficult -- 12%

Difficult -- 36%

Average -- 32%

Easy -- 12%

Very easy -- 8%

Facebook

Very difficult -- 16%

Difficult -- 26%

Average -- 37%

Easy -- 5%

Very easy -- 16%

Google

Very difficult -- 19%

Difficult -- 30%

Average -- 25%

Easy -- 18%

Very easy -- 8%

Microsoft

Very difficult -- 11%

Difficult -- 36%

Average -- 48%

Easy -- 5%

Very easy -- 0%

Many employees ended up getting the job after simply applying online.

An employee at Amazon's headquarters. Courtesy of Brittany Stanton

Overall, most current employees at the companies said they landed a job interview by applying online, except at Google and Microsoft. And Facebook, for example, had the highest percentage among the companies of employees who said they got an interview by networking.

Amazon

Applied online -- 39%

Referral -- 14%

Recruiter -- 32%

Other -- 12%

Networking -- 3%

Apple

Applied online -- 34%

Referral -- 29%

Recruiter -- 10%

Other -- 17%

Networking -- 10%

Facebook

Applied online -- 29%

Referral -- 24%

Recruiter -- 19%

Other -- 9%

Networking -- 19%

Google

Applied online -- 23%

Referral -- 18%

Recruiter -- 39%

Other -- 11%

Networking -- 9%

Microsoft

Applied online -- 17%

Referral -- 26%

Recruiter -- 30%

Other -- 13%

Networking -- 14%

Microsoft has the quickest average response time after an interview.

A Microsoft employee at the company's headquarters. Stephen Brashear/Getty Images

Expect Google to take a few weeks to get back to you after your interview. At Microsoft, however, you might hear back the same day.

Amazon

Same day -- 12%

Within a week -- 47%

One or two weeks -- 22%

Two to four weeks -- 10%

Four or more weeks -- 9%

Apple

Same day -- 11%

Within a week -- 42%

One or two weeks -- 31%

Two to four weeks -- 4%

Four or more weeks -- 12%

Facebook

Same day -- 15%

Within a week -- 42%

One or two weeks -- 16%

Two to four weeks -- 11%

Four or more weeks -- 16%

Google

Same day -- 11%

Within a week -- 5%

One or two weeks -- 35%

Two to four weeks -- 30%

Four or more weeks -- 19%

Microsoft

Same day -- 23%

Within a week -- 55%

One or two weeks -- 10%

Two to four weeks -- 10%

Four or more weeks -- 2%

Employees at Facebook and Google go through the most interviews before being offered a job.

Facebook employees in the company's offices in Hyderabad, India. Facebook

At Google, candidates may have to go through five or more interviews before getting a job offer. At Amazon, however, potential employees may have to do only one or two interviews.

Amazon

One or two interviews -- 61%

Three or four interviews -- 11%

Five or more interviews -- 28%

Apple

One or two interviews -- 53%

Three or four interviews -- 30%

Five or more interviews -- 17%

Facebook

One or two interviews -- 40%

Three or four interviews -- 36%

Five or more interviews -- 24%

Google

One or two interviews -- 34%

Three or four interviews -- 27%

Five or more interviews -- 39%

Microsoft

One or two interviews -- 49%

Three or four interviews -- 19%

Five or more interviews -- 32%

Employees at Facebook and Google overwhelmingly said the interview process gave them a good idea of the company culture.

Google employees at San Francisco's Pride Parade, Noah Berger/Reuters

While 85% of Facebook employees said they got a good sense of the company culture, Apple employees were more split.

Amazon -- 67% say yes, 33% say no

Apple -- 46% say yes, 54% say no

Facebook -- 85% say yes, 15% say no

Google -- 79% say yes, 21% say no

Microsoft -- 70% say yes, 30% say no
When Steve Jobs passed away in 2011, the ABC News program 20/20 asked me to share some of the insights I gleaned from writing three books on Jobs and Apple. The seven rules I offered are still relevant today and helped to propel Apple recently to a $1 trillion market value.

Here are the seven rules again, updated with information I've learned since the original broadcast.

1. Follow your passions.

"Do what you love" is more than a line Steve Jobs delivered in his now famous Stanford commencement speech. In a public appearance alongside Bill Gates, Jobs explained the role passion played in driving his success. "People say you need to have a lot of passion for what you're doing and it's totally true," Jobs said. "The reason is because it's so hard that if you don't have it, any rational person would give up."

Some people say that passion is overrated, but transformative entrepreneurs know they can't be successful without it.

2. Find your noble cause.

I once asked former Apple CEO John Sculley whether or not the "sugar water" story was true. It was. In 1983, Jobs was attempting to woo Sculley from PepsiCo to Apple. Sculley met with Jobs one last time to turn down the offer. Jobs paused, turned to Sculley and asked, "Do you want to sell sugar water for the rest of your life or do you want to come with me and change the world?" Sculley took the job.

Sculley told me that the experience taught him pursue a "noble cause." For Jobs, making computers accessible to the average person wasn't just a business strategy; it was a calling. Jobs pursued that calling with a missionary zeal. Don't just look for business models. Look for noble causes.

3. Simplify everything.

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication," Jobs once said. At the memorial for Jobs on the Apple campus shortly after his death, designer Jony Ive explained what Jobs meant. "The way we approach design is by trying to achieve the most with the very least. We are absolutely consumed by trying to develop a solution that is very simple, because as physical beings we understand clarity," Ive said.

Jobs strived to build simplicity into everything, from design to strategy. When Jobs returned to Apple in 1997 after being fired 12 years earlier, his first initiative was to slash the number of product offerings by 70 percent. He wanted Apple's engineers to focus on the 30 percent that was left, or what Jobs called "the gems."

You have only so much energy and attention to give to projects or projects. Simplify everything and focus on the gems.

4. Unleash your creativity.

Jobs once said the secret to creativity "comes down to trying to expose yourself to the best things that humans have done and then try to bring those things in to what you're doing." In the past few years, books and research papers have proved that Jobs was right. The world's most creative entrepreneurs look outside of their fields for ideas.

For example, Jobs roamed the kitchen appliance aisles to get ideas for the Apple II, the first real user-friendly computer that looked something you'd actually want in your home. Jobs studied the Ritz-Carlton before opening the first Apple Store. That's why greeters were called "concierges." The Genius Bar, too, was directly inspired by hotel bars.

Creativity doesn't just happen. Expose yourself to ideas outside the field you're working in.

5. Create "insanely great" customer experiences.

One of my books, The Apple Experience, pulls back the curtain on the hugely profitable Apple Store model. I learned that many brands copied the Apple store, including Tesla.

The former head of retail for Tesla, George Blankenship, helped to build the first 100 Apple stores alongside Steve Jobs. In a Tesla store in San Jose, California, I turned to Blankenship and said, "George, this reminds me of an Apple Store." Blankenship leaned in, lowered his voice, and said, "Carmine, it is an Apple Store. We just sell cars instead of computers."

The key to the Apple Store success is its people. Apple hires for personality. They can teach anyone to sell an iPad; they can't teach friendliness. Blankenship used the same approach at Tesla, hiring people who were passionate about the brand. Hire for personality and culture fit first.

6. Become the storyteller-in-chief.

Steve Jobs delivered awe-inspiring presentations before PowerPoint or Keynote was invented. In the 1984 launch of the first Macintosh, Jobs didn't need slides to build the drama. Through the expert use of storytelling, he painted a picture of a villain, a struggle and a hero. With a magician's flourish, he even pulled the computer out of a black canvas bag sitting on a table in the middle of a darkened stage. Jobs was a showman who turned product launches into performances.

Don't introduce products; tell a story.

7. Sell dreams, not products.

In a public presentation in 1997 to launch the iconic "Think Different" ad campaign, Jobs said, "Some people think they [Mac buyers] are crazy, but in that craziness we see genius." Your audiences don't care about your product, company or idea. They care about themselves, their hopes and their dreams. Unleash your customer's inner genius and they'll fall in love with you.
Not as smart as he thinks he is? Getty Images

Absurdly Driven looks at the world of business with a skeptical eye and a firmly rooted tongue in cheek.

Rage is all the rage these days.

It brings people together in a scalding bath of solidarity.

It separates people from the objects of their rage -- usually those who might disagree with the ragers or, perhaps, have different ways of enjoying life.

Well, here's a study that reveals ragers might have one particular characteristic: They're not as smart as they think they are.

Marcin Zajenkowski of the University of Warsaw and research partner Gilles Gignac of the University of Western Australia in Perth offer a pulsating title to their work: "Why do angry people overestimate their intelligence? Neuroticism as a suppressor of the association between Trait-Anger and subjectively assessed intelligence."

Academics rarely use five words when 20 will do.

Not that this makes me angry. No, no. Please don't think that.

Here's the funny thing about anger. Too many people think it's a negative emotion.

However, Zajenkowski observes: "Anger is more approach oriented and associated with optimistic risk perception and generally optimistic bias."

The problem, though, is that those disposed to anger tend to overestimate their intelligence. This appears to be associated with "narcissistic illusions."

The propensity to get mad at people isn't linked merely to narcissism and optimism. It also seems to be wrapped up in an "increased sense of control."

I do adore how academics tend to wrap emotional issues in language drier than a sandal after a year in the desert.

"SAI (Subjectively Assessed Intelligence) is more substantially associated with personality than objective intelligence," say the researchers.

Can it really be that we're not very objective in judging our own intelligence?

That's such a damning indictment of, well, an American's joy in insisting: "I'm a smart person."

I'm verily stunned to imagine that people who aren't as smart as they think they are might lurch more easily toward venting their spleens over the innocent.

Oddly, the researchers also posit that there might be a little self-contradiction going on in the naturally angry.

"We suggest that there might be two faces of Trait-Anger: one related to anxiety and one to overconfidence," they say.

Is that truly a surprise?

I'd like to say that I haven't mentioned Alec Baldwin even once in this article.
Sixty-two-year-old PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi just announced that she intends to step down in October, passing the top job to the company's president, Ramon Laguarta. By every conceivable measure, Nooyi has been a stunning success. Born in India, she was both the first woman and the first immigrant to hold the top job at PepsiCo. When she took over as CEO, PepsiCo became the largest company ever led by a woman.

She held that position for 12 years, whereas the average large-company CEO tenure is five years, according to a recent Harvard study. Sales during her leadership grew 80 percent. She managed the acquisition of Quaker Foods, a key step for PepsiCo as trends toward healthier eating (and drinking) cut into the profitability of sodas and potato chips. Perhaps most impressive, she faced down activist investor Nelson Peltz, who led a relentless two-year campaign to force PepsiCo leadership to split up the company, separating its soda division from the more profitable Frito-Lay.

Now that the famously hardworking Nooyi is leaving, she has one big piece of advice for today's college students and recent graduates--and she says that doing this contributed a lot to her own success: Study STEM subjects. In an interview early this year with Freakonomics Radio, she explains.

One of the things that my experience has taught me is that if you are trained as a scientist in your youth--through your high school and college--if you stay with the STEM disciplines, you can learn pretty much all of the subjects as you move along in life. And your scientific disciplines play a very important role, and grounds you very well as you move into positions of higher and higher authority, whatever the job is. It's very hard to learn science later on in life. One of the pleas I would have for most young people today is, stay with STEM as long as you can.

This is pretty much the opposite of the advice offered by Mark Cuban, Slack CEO Stewart Butterfield, and LinkedIn engineer Guy Berger. These and other experts argue that STEM studies tend to be too specialized, and too focused on the skills needed today (data science for example). They say it's impossible to tell which skills will be desirable in the years to come, and that artificial intelligence will in time take over some of the STEM tasks currently performed by humans. That's why they think a liberal arts education, by teaching students to be flexible, to be good at communication and creativity, and to see the big picture, are ultimately more valuable.

You might think these skills would be particularly useful at a consumer products company. PepsiCo isn't IBM after all. And Nooyi does have not one but two master's degrees in management. But she says there are countless times when her undergraduate degree in physics, chemistry, and mathematics helped her make her company more successful. For example, when she hired endocrinologist Mehmood Khan as the company's chief scientific officer, her science background helped her better understand what he wanted to do and explain it to others at the company.

It also helped her make the company more innovative. "I could also challenge the R&D department to do things that they enjoyed doing," she explains. "Very often I'd write them a note saying, 'Look, I have six challenges I'd like to give you. And this is why I'm putting these challenges out to you.' And they loved it." One of those challenges was to recapture some of the fiber lost in the leftover pulp when squeezing oranges for orange juice, and put that fiber back into the juice to make it healthier, something her research team did accomplish. "And the list goes on and on," she says.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt has waded in on the (500) Days of Summer debate calling out the behaviour of his character.

The American starred in the 2009 romantic drama as Tom Hansen, a character at the centre of a failed relationship with Zooey Deschanel's titular Summer Finn depicted in non-linear form.

In response to a fan who blamed Deschanel's character for the dissolution of their relationship, Gordon-Levitt urged the Twitter user to watch it again, adding: Its mostly Toms fault. Hes projecting. Hes not listening. Hes selfish. Luckily he grows by the end.

(500) Days of Summer has generated a cult fanbase since its release with many praising the two central performances, Tom's interactions with his little sister - played by Chloe Grace Moretz - and the soundtrack which features the likes of The Smiths and Paul Simon.



Gordon-Levitt recently hosted the Comedy Central Roast of Hollywood star Bruce Willis with whom he starred in Rian Johnson's mind-bending thriller Looper.

Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did Show all 14 1 /14 Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 1. Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs Kicking us off is Phil Lord and Christopher Milles bizarre animated film about a scientist who creates a machine that transforms water into food. So far, not too crazy, but then the machine gets stuck in the sky and it starts raining food. Everything goes wrong and Flint Lockwood must save the day by flying up to the machine and kicking fried chicken butt. Yeah, a pretty crazy premise, but a fantastic film. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 2. Frank Michael Fassbender may be one of the most bankable stars of the moment - having starred in the likes of Steve Jobs, X-Men and Macbeth - but in 2014, instead of flaunting his face, producers decided to make him wear a weird papier-mache mask for the films near entirety. The plot sees Fassbenders titular character front a rock band, play SXSW and make likeable music. Its all just a bit strange. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 3. Groundhog Day Almost anything with Bill Murray in it is a win in my book, but when you say the premise of Ground Hog day out loud - a weatherman who must relive the same day over and over again - it sounds quite boring. What transpired was one of Murrays funniest films. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 4. Star Wars With Star Wars being so prevalent in pop-culture, its hard to imagine a time when no-one except George Lucas knew what a Lightsaber was. Producers must have been shocked when this young director came into the office trying to sell a script about Luke Skywalker, R2D2, Darth Vader, Chewbacca and Stormtroopers. Thankfully, they believed in his vision and now we have one of the best sci-fi sagas of all time. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 5. Incepetion A dream, within a dream, within a dream. Even those who watched Inception were left confused, let alone those who only heard what the film was about. Christopher Nolans final flick, however, was a masterclass in storytelling and one of the best films of the last ten years. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 6. Speed The high-concept Speed is quite ridiculous really. Keanu Reeves cant let a bus go below 50 miles per hour or it will blow up. Its quite amazing how Jan de Bont managed to make his debut 116 minutes long in the first place, let alone making it a decent film in the process. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 7. Edward Scissorhands Tim Burton is a director who could fill this entire list up. While he may have chosen to reboot numerous films in the past few years (Alice in Wonderland, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the upcoming Dumbo 2) it was his original concepts that set him apart from everyone else. In Burtons head, the love story of a man with scissors for hands and a young woman made complete sense, while for everyone else - from just the premise - it seemed entirely weird. Luckily, he was given the opportunity to make the film and a cult classic was born, all while Johnny Depps ability to play the outsider was solidified. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 8. Mrs Doubtfire Post-Hook and Aladdin, Robin Williams was on a role. One of his standout performances was as Mrs. Doubtfire, the father-turned-drag-housekeeper. As a premise, dressing your lead male as a woman wasnt exactly new (see Dustin Hoffman in Tootsie), so the filmmakers ran the risk of it all seeming like an overdone joke. Luckily, Chris Columbus managed to pull off the ridiculous plot (how wouldnt the kids know its their father, really?) leading to one of the funniest films of the 90s. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 9. The Lobster Like Burton, most of Yorgos Lanthimoss films could probably feature on this page, but weve gone with The Lobster. The film tells of a hotel where residents must find a suitable partner within 45 days otherwise they will be turned into an animal. Try to run away and the other residents will hunt you down with tranquillisers. The result was one of the best love stories of 2015. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 10. Ant-Man Some comic book superheroes should not be adapted to the big screen (*cough* Howard the Duck *cough*). Ant-Man is not one of them. Against all the odds, Paul Rudd and Peyton Reed managed to make a compelling film about a man who could shrink down in size and control ants. Whats incredible is that - somehow - the film quickly became one of Marvels most beloved films. Of course, everyone knew Marvel could pull off weird, having knocked it out of the park with Guardians of the Galaxy the year before. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 11. Beetlejuice Two ghosts living in their old home want to scare away the alive people who now live there. Unfortunately, the new home-owners cant see them and so the ghosts have to call upon a deranged Michael Keaton to help them out. Add one of the strangest afterlife scenes in film history and youve got a brilliant film. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 12. Forrest Gump While not an obvious contender like Star Wars or Beetlejuice, when you think about it, Forrest Gump is a weird idea. A below-average intelligent man, sitting on a bench, waiting for a bus, telling strangers about all the famous moments in history where he observed/effected. Thanks to Tom Hanks, Gump was a magical film of love and hope, winning over the hearts of thousands and becoming an instant classic. Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 13. The Lego Movie Another film from Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, The Lego Movie shouldnt have worked. Making a beloved toy into a film; it was all just a bit silly. Thankfully, Chris Pratts turn as Emmett (and a catchy song in Everything is Awesome) the film was a huge hit with critics and fans alike, and now we have a cinematic universe of Lego movies to come. Awesome? Film premises that shouldnt have worked but did 14. Im Not There Lets get Christian Bale, Cate Blanchett, Marcus Carl Franklin, Richard Gere, Heath Ledger, and Ben Whishaw to all play Bob Dylan in a single film, Todd Haynes said. While you would think that would be overkill, the result was stunning, with Dylan himself eventually praising the film in 2012.

He'll next star in 7500, an action-thriller which sees an aircraft hi-jacked at 30,000 feet by terrorists.
In a summer marked by global heatwaves, wildfires and drought, scientists have warned that things could get considerably worse under a future scenario dubbed hothouse Earth.

Even if greenhouse gas emissions are reduced, there is a chance human-induced global warming could trigger other processes which will lead to uncontrollable warming, the team at the Stockholm Resilience Centre said.

As Amazon rainforest is destroyed, Arctic permafrost thaws and Antarctic sea ice melts, these natural feedback mechanisms that currently help store Earths carbon will instead begin emitting it, scientists at the Swedish institute warned.

While it is unclear how likely this scenario is, experts agree that were it to happen the runaway warming after this tipping point would be an existential threat to humanity.

These tipping elements can potentially act like a row of dominoes, said Professor Johan Rockstrom, Executive Director of the Stockholm Resilience Centre. Once one is pushed over, it pushes Earth towards another. It may be very difficult or impossible to stop the whole row of dominoes from tumbling over.

The prospect of such a situation has been laid out by Professor Rockstrom and his colleagues in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).

10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Show all 10 1 /10 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A group of emperor penguins face a crack in the sea ice, near McMurdo Station, Antarctica Kira Morris 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Floods destroyed eight bridges and ruined crops such as wheat, maize and peas in the Karimabad valley in northern Pakistan, a mountainous region with many glaciers. In many parts of the world, glaciers have been in retreat, creating dangerously large lakes that can cause devastating flooding when the banks break. Climate change can also increase rainfall in some areas, while bringing drought to others. Hira Ali 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Smoke  filled with the carbon that is driving climate change  drifts across a field in Colombia. Sandra Rondon 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Amid a flood in Islampur, Jamalpur, Bangladesh, a woman on a raft searches for somewhere dry to take shelter. Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable places in the world to sea level rise, which is expected to make tens of millions of people homeless by 2050. Probal Rashid 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Sindh province in Pakistan has experienced a grim mix of two consequences of climate change. Because of climate change either we have floods or not enough water to irrigate our crop and feed our animals, says the photographer. Picture clearly indicates that the extreme drought makes wide cracks in clay. Crops are very difficult to grow. Rizwan Dharejo 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Hanna Petursdottir examines a cave inside the Svinafellsjokull glacier in Iceland, which she said had been growing rapidly. Since 2000, the size of glaciers on Iceland has reduced by 12 per cent. Tom Schifanella 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A river once flowed along the depression in the dry earth of this part of Bangladesh, but it has disappeared amid rising temperatures. Abrar Hossain 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A shepherd moves his herd as he looks for green pasture near the village of Sirohi in Rajasthan, northern India. The region has been badly affected by heatwaves and drought, making local people nervous about further predicted increases in temperature. Riddhima Singh Bhati 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A factory in China is shrouded by a haze of air pollution. The World Health Organisation has warned such pollution, much of which is from the fossil fuels that cause climate change, is a public health emergency. Leung Ka Wa 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Water levels in reservoirs, like this one in Gers, France, have been getting perilously low in areas across the world affected by drought, forcing authorities to introduce water restrictions. Mahtuf Ikhsan

We address tipping elements in the planetary machinery that might, once a certain stress level has been passed, one by one change fundamentally, rapidly, and perhaps irreversibly, explained Professor Hans Joachim Schellnhuber, director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research.

This cascade of events may tip the entire Earth system into a new mode of operation.

Global average temperatures are currently 1C above pre-industrial levels and under the Paris climate agreement world governments have agreed to keep total warming below 2C.

In the worst-case scenario, the researchers predict the Earths climate would stabilise at around 4-5C higher  hotter than any point for 1.2 million years  and with sea level increase of up to 60m.

Places on Earth will become uninhabitable if hothouse Earth becomes the reality, Professor Rockstrom said.

 Why is it so hot in the UK and around the world?

Other scientists acknowledged the situation laid out in the new PNAS paper as uncertain, as it is somewhat speculative and not covered by most existing climate change predictions, but they nonetheless admitted it was plausible.

In the context of the summer of 2018, this is definitely not a case of crying wolf, raising a false alarm: the wolves are now in sight, said Dr Phil Williamson, a climate researcher at the University of East Anglia who was not involved in the work.

Pointing out that evidence from geology shows Earths climate system is inherently nervy, he said human processes to the mix could well exacerbate this.

To avoid catastrophe, the researchers behind the new work said there was a need to move from exploitation to stewardship of the Earth, and not only reduce emissions but create new carbon stores  by planting forests, conserving biodiversity and creating technologies to remove carbon dioxide form the air.

However, they noted that while their runaway threshold may well be within the Paris target of 2C, this could be a point beyond which the risk of hothouse Earth will increase sharply.

As for whether staying below this target and maintaining a stabilised Earth is possible, climate scientists Professor Chris Rapley of University College London, who was also not involved in the study, did not have much hope.

He said in the face of right wing populism and climate change denial, drastically tackling the problem in the ways described seemed highly unlikely.

The future habitability of the planet thus appears to rest on chance, he said. That the sensitivity of the climate system to greenhouse gas emissions and other human disruptions is fortuitously very low  or that some other global scale social calamity dramatically reduces human emissions before any runaway planetary threshold is breached. The latter offers cold comfort.
Former UP CM said that the backward classes of the country are not getting the benefits of reservation in education institutions and jobs.

'Over the last four years, the central government has done nothing to support Dalits and other backward classes. Even in government jobs and education institutions, people are not getting benefits and are highly dissatisfied with the working of this government,' said Mayawati. (Photo: ANI/Twitter)

Lucknow: Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati on Tuesday expressed anger against the Narendra Modi-led government, saying they are not making enough efforts for upliftment of Dalits in society.

Speaking to media, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said that the backward classes of the country are not getting the benefits of reservation in education institutions and jobs. She also criticised the Dalit ministers who owe allegiance to the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP).

"Over the last four years, the central government has done nothing to support Dalits and other backward classes. Even in government jobs and education institutions, people are not getting benefits and are highly dissatisfied with the working of this government," said Mayawati.

Further taking a dig at the Narendra Modi government, Mayawati accused the Centre of appeasing the backward classes through some of its recent moves.

"As the elections are nearing in several states, the BJP is under immense pressure. In order to win the mandate in the upcoming polls, the Centre restored the SC/ST Atrocity Law and has taken up the issue of making National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) an autonomous body yesterday," she said.

The Lok Sabha, on Monday, unanimously passed the law with provisions for stricter guidelines, like no bail for anyone accused of atrocities on SC/STs and non requirement of an inquiry for registering a criminal case and beginning a probe.

The BSP chief also urged the government to promulgate a law that can provide reservation to the upper caste poor on the basis of economic conditions.

"I request the Centre to provide atleast 18 per cent or more reservation to upper caste poor for their development. For the past few decades, the BSP has been demanding that along with upper class poor, minority religious groups like Muslims should also be brought under the reservation," said Mayawati.
Oceans engulfing coastal cities, coral reefs eliminated and vast swathes of the Earth left completely uninhabitable.

This is what we have to look forward to in a future Hothouse Earth  a planet that has passed a tipping point beyond which its own natural processes trigger uncontrollable warming.

It is easy to assume you have heard it all before when it comes to climate change news stories, but the scenario outlined in a new paper by Professor Will Steffen and his colleagues is truly shocking.

Anyone feeling optimistic might hope it is shocking enough to make policymakers listen, and indeed the scientists laid out clearly what will be necessary to avoid this disaster.

Crucially, the new paper is not saying this will definitely happen, but scientists generally agree that it is feasible enough to be taken seriously.

What is Hothouse Earth?

Hothouse Earth is a term used to describe a scenario in which human activity causes a higher global temperature than at any time during the past 1.2 million years, due to a breakdown in the feedback loops that regulate the planets temperature.

Losing these safeguards would make warming largely beyond our control, no matter how much we subsequently reduced our greenhouse gas emissions.

Ultimately, the authors predicted things would start to stabilise at around 4-5C higher than pre-industrial times, with sea levels 60m higher than today.

By this point, warming would likely exceed the limits of adaptation and result in a substantial overall decrease in agricultural production, increased prices, and even more disparity between wealthy and poor countries.

10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Show all 10 1 /10 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A group of emperor penguins face a crack in the sea ice, near McMurdo Station, Antarctica Kira Morris 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Floods destroyed eight bridges and ruined crops such as wheat, maize and peas in the Karimabad valley in northern Pakistan, a mountainous region with many glaciers. In many parts of the world, glaciers have been in retreat, creating dangerously large lakes that can cause devastating flooding when the banks break. Climate change can also increase rainfall in some areas, while bringing drought to others. Hira Ali 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Smoke  filled with the carbon that is driving climate change  drifts across a field in Colombia. Sandra Rondon 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Amid a flood in Islampur, Jamalpur, Bangladesh, a woman on a raft searches for somewhere dry to take shelter. Bangladesh is one of the most vulnerable places in the world to sea level rise, which is expected to make tens of millions of people homeless by 2050. Probal Rashid 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Sindh province in Pakistan has experienced a grim mix of two consequences of climate change. Because of climate change either we have floods or not enough water to irrigate our crop and feed our animals, says the photographer. Picture clearly indicates that the extreme drought makes wide cracks in clay. Crops are very difficult to grow. Rizwan Dharejo 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Hanna Petursdottir examines a cave inside the Svinafellsjokull glacier in Iceland, which she said had been growing rapidly. Since 2000, the size of glaciers on Iceland has reduced by 12 per cent. Tom Schifanella 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A river once flowed along the depression in the dry earth of this part of Bangladesh, but it has disappeared amid rising temperatures. Abrar Hossain 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A shepherd moves his herd as he looks for green pasture near the village of Sirohi in Rajasthan, northern India. The region has been badly affected by heatwaves and drought, making local people nervous about further predicted increases in temperature. Riddhima Singh Bhati 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change A factory in China is shrouded by a haze of air pollution. The World Health Organisation has warned such pollution, much of which is from the fossil fuels that cause climate change, is a public health emergency. Leung Ka Wa 10 photographs to show to anyone who doesn't believe in climate change Water levels in reservoirs, like this one in Gers, France, have been getting perilously low in areas across the world affected by drought, forcing authorities to introduce water restrictions. Mahtuf Ikhsan

The idea builds on previous work by Professor Hans Joachim Schellnhuber, one of the new papers authors, that suggested burning fossil fuels has postponed the next global ice age for 100,000 years.

The Earth goes through natural periods of heating and cooling, but by tampering with the planets natural feedback loops the idea is that we have knocked this cycle off its course.

This situation, as well as alternative stabilised Earth pathway, is explained in a new Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) paper.

What are the mechanisms that could make this happen?

The scientists considered 10 natural feedback processes, some of which are considered tipping elements that will cause a cascade of further warming beyond a threshold limit.

These feedbacks include loss of permafrost, Arctic summer sea ice and Antarctic ice sheets, as well as dieback of Amazon and boreal forests and increased bacterial respiration in the oceans.

Forests, oceans and permafrost currently do us a great service by storing carbon. As rising temperatures cause these carbon sinks to weaken, some will actually start to emit more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Some of these changes could be reversible, but others would be irreversible on time frames that matter to contemporary societies.

How did the scientists work this out?

The PNAS paper is not based on a specific study that Professor Steffen and his team have carried out, and nor is it an outcome that has been considered in most existing climate models (which scientists use to make predictions about the Earths future under climate change).

The paper is essentially an essay (or review of others work), rather than original research, explained Professor Martin Siegert, codirector of the Grantham Institute at Imperial College London.

But theyve collated previously published ideas and theories to present a narrative on how the threshold change would work. Its rather selective, but not outlandish.

The scientists also looked at conditions on Earth in the distant past by way of comparison. The geological record can give a sense of ancient carbon dioxide levels and the resulting impact on life.

If there is a tipping point, when exactly would this be?

Though the scientists emphasised their theoretical tipping point is uncertain, they said it could be only decades ahead at a temperature rise of 2.0C above preindustrial, and thus, it could be within the range of the Paris accord temperature targets.

The Paris climate agreement calls on nations to limit warming to 1.5-2C by the end of the century, and while the authors still endorse these guidelines they suggest more ambitious targets may be necessary.

 Why is it so hot in the UK and around the world?

What we do not know yet is whether the climate system can be safely parked near 2C above preindustrial levels, as the Paris Agreement envisages. Or if it will, once pushed so far, slip down the slope towards a hothouse planet, said Professor Schellnhuber.

Research must assess this risk as soon as possible.

How likely is this to happen, and can it be avoided?

In their paper, Professor Steffen and his colleagues do not attempt to put a number on the probability of a Hothouse Earth scenario arising. They only emphasise that given the uncertainty surrounding this projected future, drastic action is essential.

As ever, the refrain is that to avoid this outcome carbon emissions must be cut and the international community must meet the most ambitious targets set by international agreements.

But the authors also go further. They conclude that cutting emissions may not be enough, but ties into a growing consensus that we also need to start removing the gases we have already pumped into the atmosphere.

This could involve better management of forests and farms and developing technologies to suck carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. It will likely involve major societal changes, but seeing as Professor Schellnhuber has estimated the carrying capacity of a Hothouse Earth would drop to 1 billion people, it seems worth the effort.
An organisation representing tens of thousands of students in Northern Ireland is calling for a peoples vote on the Brexit deal, amid massive uncertainty around tuition fees across the border.

Olivia Potter-Hughes, president of the National Union of Students-Union of Students in Ireland (NUS-USI)  which represents 200,000 members  has given her support for a referendum on the deal.

It comes as a petition supporting The Independents campaign for a Final Say on Brexit passed 590,000 signatures.

Ms Potter-Hughes said: There is still massive uncertainty around the tuition fees that students studying on a cross border basis will face.

Also, if we stay within the Erasmus+ after Brexit, there may be none of the current student financial support available, which may make this excellent programme inaccessible to many students.

We are also worried that the Good Friday Agreement could be undermined, because we are worried that, depending on whether you hold a UK or Irish passport, you may have EU rights or may be denied them.

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The president of the NUS-USI added: I think virtually everyone, whether they were a remain or leave voter, would admit that the negotiations and the fallout from Brexit have been disastrous and deeply unsettling for the whole UK, and particularly for Northern Ireland.

In light of the utter farce and chaos that has engulfed the Brexit process since the referendum result was announced, the public must be given another chance to have its say on what direction the UK should take on Brexit.

Last week, The Independents call for a second referendum on the final Brexit deal was endorsed by the National Union of Students  which represents 4.3 million members across the country.

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Recent polling revealed the majority of students would back a vote on the final Brexit deal, as some 70 per cent believe they will be worse off after leaving the EU.

Support among young voters for a new referendum has surged from 58 per cent in February 2017 to 67 per cent this month, according to the survey of undergraduates, conducted by Youthsight.

It was recently revealed more than 1.4 million more young people would be eligible to vote in a fresh referendum than was the case in the 2016 Brexit poll.
Google Maps is finally round.

The company is using a 3D version of the globe that will turn and change as you explore Earth, rather than the frequently controversial flat projections often used.

It means that if you zoom out far enough, the planet will turn into a globe, rather than the flat picture that has been used up until now.

11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Show all 11 1 /11 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Time travel You can see how places have changed over the years in Street View, by dragging Pegman (the small yellow figure) onto the map and clicking the clock icon. Its not available for all locations though - only the places Google has pictured for older versions of Street View - and the furthest back you can go is 2008. Its fun though, and if you look closely, youll see Pegman turns into Back to the Futures Doc Brown. 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Dive into your history You can view your Google Maps History by visiting myactivity.google.com. In the search bar at the top of the page, you can filter by lots of different products, and Maps is one of them. Doing so will show you all the Maps data has on you, which you can delete. 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Zoom with one finger Phones seem to be rowing bigger by the year, and its not always easy to use them one-handed, especially if you want to zoom in on something on your screen. On the Google Maps app, you can zoom in and out with one finger by double-tapping - but keeping your finger on the screen on the second tap - and then dragging it up and down. 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Create your own map You can create your own custom map on desktop by opening the menu and clicking Your Places, Maps and Create Map. Give your map a name and a description, and add all of your favourite places. You can also collaborate on a map with other people, ideal for when youre planning a holiday. My Maps is also available as an app, separate to Google Maps. 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Calibrate your compass This isnt an issue thats specific to Google Maps, but its incredibly annoying. Every now and then you might find yourself walking in completely the wrong direction because your phones compass has gone wrong. Fortunately, you can calibrate it by moving your phone in a figure 8 motion a few times. 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Add stops to your journey Everyone knows Google Maps can direct you from one location to another, you can add multiple stops to your journey too. On the app, after youve entered your starting point and destination, hit the menu button in the top-right corner of the screen and select Add Stop. On desktop, click Add Destination and drag and drop the addresses to reorder your journey. 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Explore You can easily find great places to hang out by tapping Explore in the main menu of the Google Maps app. Each of the sections is split into specific sub-sections (such as Keep it Cheap and Quick Bites), and every place has a rating and a description. Also, if youve ever wondered what the orange shaded bits on Google Maps indicate, theyre areas of interest Google believes to be worth exploring. 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Share the places you love If youre planning to meet friends somewhere, you can make the process much smoother by sharing the right location with them. On the app, find the location youre after, tap More Info and Share. On desktop, find the right address and click Share. 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Share your location You can track your friends or let them track you in real-time with Google Maps, so everyone knows whos on time and whos running late. In the app, hit the menu button and tap Location Sharing. 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Save data You can save mobile data (and money) by downloading offline maps for certain areas in advance. On the app, hit the menu button and select Offline Maps, then find the area you want and hit Download. You can also find Wi-Fi Only mode in the main menu of the app, which means you can only access your saved offline maps. On desktop meanwhile, you can use Google Maps Lite for when youre on a slow internet connection. 11 useful Google Maps features you didnt know existed Remember where you parked The Google Maps app can save where youve parked your car. Once youve found a spot, all you need to do is tap your blue location dot and select Save Your Parking.

It also means that you might have a slightly strange feeling when you first navigate around the site, feeling things twist and turn as you move them around in 3D. (You have to be zoomed out enough for it to feel different  once you are zoomed out enough to see countries, you will probably sense something is different, and when you are at the level of the planet it is entirely clear.)

The decision means that Google doesnt need to endorse one way or another of making the map flat  an infamously charged decision. Each mapping company has to pick a specific projection, or a way of turning 3D globe into a 2D map.

Maps projections are a notoriously difficult choice, and many of them have infamous geopolitical assumptions contained within them. The projection used on Google Maps until now, for instance, privileges places towards the top of the map  meaning that the UK looks far bigger than it should when compared with Africa, for instance.

The Mirror suggested that Google's choice was a rebuke to flat-earthers and that the company had "thrown its support behind the round-Earth theory".

But though Google did not make clear why it had made the decision in its announcement, it suggested that it was so that it had no longer had to use a problematic projection. With 3D Globe Mode on Google Maps desktop, Greenland's projection is no longer the size of Africa, the company tweeted.
Tommy Robinson has been kicked off Instagram.

The far-right activist's account, which had been under the name "realtommyrobinson" has now been removed. Instead, the site just shows a message saying "Sorry, this page isn't available".

The ban comes amid a flurry of punishments for controversial far-right figures. Most infamous among them has been the gradual removal of Alex Jones' Infowars from tech platforms, which has included Facebook, YouTube, Spotify and Apple's podcasts.

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block the roads in London Staff Photographer Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release EDL fly the St George flag at a Tommy Robinson support rally Staff Photographer Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release Protesters hold up placards and wave Union flags AFP/Getty Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release Supporters of English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson REUTERS Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release EDL shout through pub window REUTERS Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release Supporters of English Defence League founder Tommy Robinson are confronted by police REUTERS Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release EDL display the St George flag to a bus driver Staff Photographer Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release EDL supporters in London Staff Photographer Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release The Independent Tommy Robinson march: Far-right protesters demand EDL founder release 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Robinson  whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon  suggested that he may be subject to further bans, in a Facebook in which he announced he can no longer access Instagram.

"They have now deleted my Instagram account," he wrote. Facebook will soon close us down."

He has already been removed from Twitter, in March. The company has refused to say which of his tweets led to that ban, though it came after a host of Islamophobic posts.

Robinson is thought to be in Tenerife, having headed there soon after being released from prison.

Both Robinson and Jones have suggested that they are the victim of a conspiracy to hide conservative voices. But tech platforms have pointed to their policies on hate speech when removing their videos and profiles from their sites.

Robinson has repeatedly used his social accounts to share Islamophobic messages, and has continued that posting since being released from prison.

He posted a long, angry comment about the removal of Jones' platforms, in which he suggested that his voice was being suppressed.

"Imagine EE, Three, O2 and Vodafone all got together and started listening to what you were saying in conversations on your mobile phone," he wrote in a recent Facebook post. "They decided they did not like what you were saying so they all blocked you from their network effectively removing your ability to communicate. If this started happening to people, there would be uproar.

"Well that is exactly what Facebook, Youtube, Apple and Spotify just did to Alex Jones and Infowars. It does not matter if you agree or Disagree with Alex Jones, this is forcible suppression of opposition voices that predominantly left wing silicon valley do not agree with or 'fascism' as it is better known!"
Humans have gone unshod for millions of years; it is only in the past few centuries that people have started wearing shoes. However, a recent survey shows that shoe-wearing among young boys isnt universal. German children and teenagers spend most of their day in shoes, while about 90 per cent of their South African counterparts go barefoot.

Aside from the obvious climate differences, it is tempting to think that South Africas lower economic ranking, compared with Germanys, is the main reason for the absence of footwear. But this reasoning has been challenged by results from our recent survey.

We gathered information on the footwear habits of 714 boys attending a secondary school in a wealthy part of Auckland, New Zealand. Almost half of the students (45 per cent) spent most of their time barefoot. Many of the students in this study were even willing to run distances of 100 to 3,000 metres on a hard track surface without shoes.

Foot structure

Differences in foot structure between those who have never worn shoes and those who are usually in shoes have been described for over a century. In one seminal 1905 study, Phil Hoffman, warned how putting the fashionable desires of customers over the health of their feet had led to shoe design that more or less crowds the front of the foot.

The main developmental result of growing up in shoes appears to be a narrower foot and a lower arch. The result of this is more concentrated pressure at the heel and the ball of the foot during movement.

By contrast, those who grow up barefoot have wider feet and have a more even distribution of pressure towards the outside edge of the foot and across the toes.

Running as nature intended

We dont know what effect growing up in shoes has on the development of movement skills, or the risk of injury in sport, but logic suggests that growing up barefoot is a good thing.

The heel of the foot is highly sensitive to pain, meaning that when people run barefoot they tend to avoid landing on their heel and instead defer the pressure to the mid and forefoot. This allows a broader surface area to absorb force.

In order to avoid a heel strike, the foot must never be too far in front of the body. As a result, barefoot runners tend to have a shorter stride. A shorter stride needs less leg extension, which is why barefoot runners have greater bend at the knee and a more pointed foot towards the floor. These joint positions allow muscles around the knee to help control landing and allow the ankle to behave in a more spring-like fashion.

The problem with shoes

Covering the heel of the foot reduces the sensation it experiences when coming into contact with the ground. The running shoe, containing a cushioned heel, allows the runner to land on the heel of the foot with an extended leg. This is perhaps why about 75 per cent of runners nowadays are heel strikers.

Running using an extended limb (overstriding) results in force being absorbed through the heel, bony structures and joints, with less assistance from muscle. This may be one of the reasons most running injuries are to structures that are not designed to absorb force (shins, feet and knees). Interestingly, when people remove their shoes, most revert to middle and forefoot striking.

Children and teenagers who grow up mostly barefoot appear strong enough to run quickly and for long distances without shoes. The prevalence of leg pain in the New Zealand students we studied was at the lower end of that reported globally in students of a similar age. This finding, combined with an absence of evidence for the role of shoes in the prevention of injury, makes it seem reasonable to suggest that children should spend as much time as possible barefoot.

Social acceptability is a barrier to barefoot activities in many Western countries, as a result, adults who did not grow up mostly barefoot may not have the same foot structure and leg strength to transition to barefoot activities quickly.

Gradually building time spent walking and running in bare feet is key for people who are new to barefoot activities. The increasing availability of shoes that mimic the structure of the foot (minimalist shoes) and have little cushioning other than to cover the foot, may help people transition to being barefoot. The improving design of these shoes may also help to tackle the issue of social acceptability.

Peter Francis is a director of the musculoskeletal science research group at Leeds Beckett University. This article first appeared on TheConversation.com
If you work in an office, the chances are there are some colleagues you would rather sit next to than others. But were not just talking personality likes or dislikes here  what can also be a factor is how clean they keep their desk.

The average office desk is said to contains 400 times more germs than a toilet seat  meaning that many office workers could be at risk of sickness due to dirty desks.

Research by the University of Arizona found that humans are the most common source of bacteria and that, compared to women, men have three to four times the number of bacteria in, on and around their desks, phones, computers, keyboards, drawers and personal items. Theories as to why this might be include men having bigger desks, meaning an increased surface area available for depositing, as well as having on average, lower standards of personal grooming.

As microbiologists, when we look at offices we are looking at what is called the built environment. It is thought that the built environment microflora (all the bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes detected) is far less varied than the outside world.

It is also thought that it can be strongly affected by the geography that surrounds it. For example it was impossible to tell apart the microbial mix between offices in San Francisco and New York. The office bacteria in Tucson, Arizona are quite different due to the higher temperatures and the desert environment that surrounds it. What is also clear is that the microbes in two offices in different cities are more similar than, say a kitchen and an office in the same building.

Time to clean your phone

Humans are the biggest source of microorganisms at the desk  most bacteria in an office come from people. The computer keyboard and mouse are a common part of office life for many. Unsurprisingly, each key strike both deposits and picks up microorganisms. Studies of keyboards outside of offices has found pathogenic bacteria within hospitals, whereas within universities, multi-user keyboards have a greater range of organisms  including some gut bacteria.

The microbial flora of mobile phones has also been under scrutiny, heightened perhaps by how close we bring them to vulnerable entry points such as mouth and ear. Research varies on just how many germs are on the average phone, but a study at the University of Arizona found that mobile phones carry 10 times more bacteria than most toilet seats.

But touchscreen phones in a German university were found to have lower levels of bacteria  and these were typically skin, nasal and some gastrointestinal species.

Beware the paper and the cups

Most paperwork these days is digital, so is prone to very different viruses and bugs. But still, many of us will regularly come into contact with different bits of paper  think, taking minutes in a meeting, leaving notes on a colleagues desk, or even when reading books or newspapers on a lunch break.

Paper and particularly library books are not a common source of contamination  but, despite this, a requirement for UK readers suffering from certain diseases to refrain from taking out any books while ill still exists. Sick library book readers must also inform the local authority  who may choose to disinfect or destroy any volumes. The law requiring this was brought about as a result of scarlet fever being transmitted from an individual due to his unusual habit of using skin peelings as bookmarks.

Equally startling is guidance from Public Heath England that reusable coffee mugs must be cleaned properly to prevent bacterial growth. Research has shown up to 90 per cent of mugs in office kitchens are coated in germs, and that 20 per cent of those cups actually carry fecal matter. If you ever needed a reason to take your own cup, there it is.

No pen is safe

There is certainly evidence of survival of microorganisms on stationary. But in your office, you only need to be worried if you chew on pens and happen to lend them to people with poor bathroom hand-washing practices.

But of course, none on these surfaces are created to encourage bacterial growth  so if they are kept clean they harbour few nasty surprises. It is also becoming clearer that we do personalise our environment with our own microbes be that our keyboard, coffee cup or the very shoes on our feet.

Michael Loughlin is a senior lecturer at the school of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University. This article first appeared on TheConversation.com
Sleeping for more than eight hours a night could lead to an early death, new research suggests.

A global study led by Keele University has found that people who regularly make time for more sleep could end up with a serious sleep disorder that disrupts their breathing and causes an increased risk of heart disease.

As a result, the researchers, who looked at data from 74 studies, said that excessive sleep could be a marker of poor health.

Published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, the study examined the link between self-reported sleep, cardiovascular disease and mortality in more than three million participants from 1970 to 2017.

The scientists found that a sleep duration of ten hours is linked with 30 per cent increased risks of early death compared to sleeping for seven hours.

The study also revealed a 56 per cent increased risk of stroke mortality and a 49 per cent increased risk of cardiovascular mortality for those who slept for more than eight hours.

Lead researcher Dr Chun Shing Kwok, who works at Keele University's Institute for Science and Technology in Medicine, explains: Our study has an important public health impact in that it shows that excessive sleep is a marker of elevated cardiovascular risk.

Our findings have important implications as clinicians should have greater consideration for exploring sleep duration and quality during consultations.

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If excessive sleep patterns are found, particularly prolonged durations of eight hours or more, then clinicians should consider screening for adverse cardiovascular risk factors and obstructive sleep apnoea, which is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep.

The study, which also found that poor sleep quality was associated with a 44 per cent increase in coronary heart disease, is one of many that highlight the impact sleep can have on a persons physical health.

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Last month, the University of Sydney revealed that oxygen deprivation caused by sleep apnoea could cause your brain to shrink in the regions which play an important role in memory and which are also affected by dementia.

Similarly, a recent study by the University of Glasgow found that an insufficient amount of sleep could also be detrimental to your mental health.

The findings concluded that a disrupted circadian rhythm can lead to an increased possibility of developing mood disorders and lower levels of happiness.
The government is taking on a union in court in a landmark case that could have huge ramifications for the UKs army of 3.3 million outsourced workers, many of whom have fewer rights and face worse pay and conditions than in-house colleagues doing the same jobs.

The government has now waded into a legal battle after the High Court granted the Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) permission for a judicial review of a decision that prevented it from representing a group of workers at the University of London (UoL).

The security guards, postroom workers, porters and receptionists, who work for facilities management firm Cordant Security, want to collectively bargain through the IWGB directly with UoL which they say is their de-facto employer. By not allowing them to do so the Central Arbitration Committee, which made the decision, is breaching the workers' human rights, the union argues.

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After the High Court's ruling, the CAC's decision can now be judicially reviewed.

One security guard, who has been working at the university for 13 years and did not want to be named, said it was simply unfair that he and other Cordant staff received less generous employment benefits than colleagues employed directly by UoL.

We do the same job, work in the same building and share the same canteen. Why should we have worse pension, worse holiday just because we work for Cordant? We are all really working for the university, the person said.

The University won't recognise the IWGB because it says staff can join Unison, which already represents many of its workers.

But the worker said he and his colleagues felt Unison didnt listen to or deal with the concerns of outsourced staff, whereas IWGB took immediate action when concerns were raised.

IWGB, which has represented workers in a number of high-profile cases against Deliveroo, Uber and City Sprint among others, says this refusal of recognition breaches Article 11 of the European Convention of Human Rights.

The government, which indirectly employs hundreds of thousands of outsourced workers, has now intervened.

Last week, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) joined the litigation as an interested party, arguing that Cordant workers can't use human rights grounds to challenge UK union recognition laws simply because those laws are regarded as sub-optimal in certain circumstances.

Sean Nesbitt, a partner at law firm Taylor Wessing, said the case has echoes of the walkouts staged by women at Fords Dagenham plant in the 1960s which saw skilled women take action against the fact that their male counterparts were paid 15 per cent higher salaries.

In both that case and the present one, the incumbent union concerned was perceived to have a cosy relationship with the employer which meant it neglected the rights of a minority of the workforce they were supposed to represent.

The 1960s strikes ultimately led to the Equal Pay Act which for the first time mandated in law that men and women must be paid the same for work of equal value.

Mr Nesbitt said current law favours incumbent unions, making it difficult for a newcomer to dislodge them but said the IWGB was relying on an incendiary argument that could have a huge impact on UK employment law.

To force the university to recognise the IWGB for collective bargaining, it will have to convince the court that the workers are employed by both the firm named on their payslips and by the end user of their labour, ie the university.

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While a doctrine of joint employment exists in the US to protect staff from fragmenting the workforce and blunting the effectiveness of unions, statute law in the UK does not explicitly support the concept.

But there is a growing interest in this within government, Mr Nesbitt said. There is a move towards making sure companies cannot avoid their responsibilities.

In May, the Director of Labour Market Enforcement, who is responsible for compliance with the minimum wage, recommended that companies which are effectively the end users of labour should be liable for breaches of wage laws.

Jolyon Maugham QC, founder of the Good Law Project said that judges may be less conservative with their interpretations of statutes at a time when parliament appears to be in legislative gridlock.

There are many ways bad employers dodge the cost of workers rights and outsourcing can be one of them, Mr Maugham said.

He added: The law often erects companies as a shield between workers and their employment rights.

Judges are anxious to ensure workers get what parliament has provided for and to discard what sometimes is artifice to get to the reality.

The Good Law Project, which is suing Uber in a separate case, has donated 5,000 to start off a crowdfunding campaign launched by the IWGB on Tuesday to fund the case.

The union said its costs could run to hundreds of thousands of pounds as it battles lawyers for Cordant - a company with more than 1.2bn turnover - as well as UoL and now the government.

A BEIS spokesperson said: The department believes that the IWGBs challenge should be rejected because the workers are already represented by an independent union  this is in line with the European Convention of Human Rights. It would be inappropriate to comment further on an ongoing court case.

We are absolutely committed to protecting workers rights, and employees have the opportunity to be represented by a trade union.
After months of energy providers announcing bill hikes and blaming rising wholesale gas and electricity prices, costs look set to go up again after regulator Ofgem raised the cap on variable tariffs by 47 per year.

The energy regulator said on Tuesday that its safeguard tariff will rise to 1,136 in October for those who prepay for their fuel. The cap is designed to protect five million households from being overcharged, and was extended to a further one million homes earlier this year.

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The latest hike is the second time the governments cap on bills has been raised since it was introduced in April last year. In February, Ofgem announced a 57 increase in the tariff, so the most recent hike means the cap has gone up by more than 100 in just over six months.

What does it mean for consumers?

The impact this has on consumers could be sizeable. With the wider price cap due to come into force in November, the regulators consecutive hikes could signal a more relaxed attitude towards bills.

Stephen Murray, energy expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: Rather than bring bills down, the cap has simply made them even more expensive for customers who are already struggling.

He noted that so far this year, all of the UKs Big Six suppliers have increased prices once, while EDF has done so twice, as wholesale prices keep going up.

All of this begs the question  what is the outlook for the wider price cap on the way in November? Where are the signs that Ofgem will reduce prices for the millions of households overpaying on their energy bills?, Mr Murray said.

The Big Six have made the following changes to bills since the beginning of the year:

Npower: 5.3 per cent

SSE: 6.7 per cent

Scottish Power: 5.5 per cent

British Gas: 5.5 per cent

E.ON: 4.8 per cent

EDF: 6 per cent

Average: 5.6 per cent

Why are prices rising?

Bills are going up due to wholesale energy costs, which have increased by more than 20 per cent so far this year, according to gas and electricity provider Bulb.

The company said this was partly due to a cold winter, which left gas stores depleted, as well as reduced gas production capacity due to the harsh conditions, which did not help storage levels and pushed prices up.

The lack of supply over the winter and spring kept demand for gas high, which also propped up prices.

Meanwhile, electricity prices are closely linked to gas costs, as the UK is dependent on gas to power electricity generators.

Although renewable energy can be used in place of gas, at the moment the capacity is just not there in the UK.

So what can consumers do?

Theres one word of advice when it comes to seeking more reasonable rates for energy: switch. There are plenty of comparison services out there for people to seek out better deals, and consumers can save more than 250 a year if they make the right choice.

Mr Murray at MoneySuperMarket said: If households want to bring their energy bills down, they have to do it themselves. If you do nothing, you are in serious danger of your bills continuing to rise.

If you do something and switch to a fixed-rate tariff today with a Big Six or emerging supplier, you will see your annual bills decrease dramatically, by 250 or more. Dont wait around and assume the price cap will help you  take matters into your own hands and switch now.

Peter Earl, head of energy at Compare the Market, also advocated switching, but said this solution pointed to deep-rooted problems within the energy market.

The fact that the average customer on a default tariff can save up to 350 by switching provider, is an indication that the energy market is broken and in serious need of reform, he said.
Scientists have spotted "extraordinary", intense waves coming out of Jupiter's moon Ganymede.

The "chorus waves" are a million times more powerful than they are on Earth, and could have disastrous effects on spacecraft.

On Earth, listening to electromagnetic waves around the planet is something like the soft chirping of birds in the morning, which gives chorus waves their name. They can cause spectacular polar lights but can also create "killer" electrons that can damage spacecraft.

Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Show all 30 1 /30 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Solar Flare An image from Nasa's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) shows a 200,000 mile long solar filament ripping through the Sun's corona in September 2013 Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Nasa Celebrates 50 Years of Spacewalking For 50 years, NASA has been "suiting up" for spacewalking. In this 1984 photograph of the first untethered spacewalk, NASA astronaut Bruce McCandless is in the midst of the first "field" tryout of a nitrogen-propelled backpack device called the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space A Hubble Cosmic Couple The spectacular cosmic pairing of the star Hen 2-427  more commonly known as WR 124  and the nebula M1-67 which surrounds it ESA/Hubble & NASA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Veil Nebula Supernova Remnant Nasa's Hubble Space Telescope has unveiled in stunning detail a small section of the Veil Nebula - expanding remains of a massive star that exploded about 8,000 years ago Nasa's most stunning pictures of space The Soyuz TMA-15M rocket launch The Soyuz TMA-15M rocket launches from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Monday, Nov. 24, 2014, carrying three new astronauts to the International Space Station. It also took caviar, ready for the satellite's inhabitants to celebrate the holidays Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Earth from the ISS From the International Space Station, Expedition 42 Flight Engineer Terry W. Virts took this photograph of the Gulf of Mexico and U.S. Gulf Coast at sunset Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Black Hole Friday Nasa celebrated Black Friday by looking into space instead  sharing pictures of black holes Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space NuSTAR X-rays stream off the sun in this image showing observations from by NASA's Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array, or NuSTAR, overlaid on a picture taken by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Cassiopeia A c A false colour image of Cassiopeia A comprised with data from the Spitzer and Hubble Space Telescopes and the Chandra X-Ray observatory Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Orion Capsule splashes down The Orion capsule jetted off into space before heading back a few hours later  having proved that it can be used, one day, to carry humans to Mars Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Earth Observations From Gemini IV in 1965 This photograph of the Florida Straits and Grand Bahama Bank was taken during the Gemini IV mission during orbit no. 19 in 1965. The Gemini IV crew conducted scientific experiments, including photography of Earth's weather and terrain, for the remainder of their four-day mission following Ed White's historic spacewalk on June 3 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Frosty slopes of Mars This image of an area on the surface of Mars, approximately 1.5 by 3 kilometers in size, shows frosted gullies on a south-facing slope within a crater. The image was taken by Nasa's HiRISE camera, which is mounted on its Mars Reconaissance Orbiter Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Yellowstone from space NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman shared this image of Yellowstone via his twitter account Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Saturn This near-infrared color image shows a specular reflection, or sunglint, off of a hydrocarbon lake named Kivu Lacus on Saturn's moon Titan Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Worlds Apart Although Mimas and Pandora, shown here, both orbit Saturn, they are very different moons. Pandora, "small" by moon standards (50 miles or 81 kilometers across) is elongated and irregular in shape. Mimas (246 miles or 396 kilometers across), a "medium-sized" moon, formed into a sphere due to self-gravity imposed by its higher mass Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Solar Flare An X1.6 class solar flare flashes in the middle of the sun in this image taken 10 September, captured by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Large Magellanic Cloud galaxy An image of the Large Magellanic Cloud galaxy seen in infrared light by the Herschel Space Observatory. Regions of space such as this are where new stars are born from a mixture of elements and cosmic dust Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Mars Rover Spirit Nasa's Mars Rover Spirit took the first picture from Spirit since problems with communications began a week earlier. The image shows the robotic arm extended to the rock called Adirondack Nasa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Morning Aurora From the Space Station Nasa astronaut Scott Kelly captured this photograph of the green lights of the aurora from the International Space Station Nasa/Scott Kelly Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Launch of History - Making STS-41G Mission in 1984 The Space Shuttle Challenger launches from Florida at dawn. On this mission, Kathryn Sullivan became the first U.S. woman to perform a spacewalk and Marc Garneau became the first Canadian in space. The crew of seven was the largest to fly on a spacecraft at that time, and STS-41G was the first flight to include two female astronauts Nasa's most stunning pictures of space A Fresh Perspective on an Extraordinary Cluster of Galaxies Galaxy clusters are often described by superlatives. After all, they are huge conglomerations of galaxies, hot gas, and dark matter and represent the largest structures in the Universe held together by gravity Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Hubble Sees a Galactic Sunflower The arrangement of the spiral arms in the galaxy Messier 63, seen here in an image from the Nasa Hubble Space Telescope, recall the pattern at the center of a sunflower ESA/Hubble & NASA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Pluto image Four images from New Horizons Long Range Reconnaissance Imager (LORRI) were combined with colour data from the Ralph instrument to create this enhanced colour global view of Pluto Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Fresh Crater Near Sirenum Fossae Region of Mars The HiRISE camera aboard Nasa's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter acquired this closeup image of a "fresh" (on a geological scale, though quite old on a human scale) impact crater in the Sirenum Fossae region of Mars. This impact crater appears relatively recent as it has a sharp rim and well-preserved ejecta Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Hubble Peers into the Most Crowded Place in the Milky Way This Nasa Hubble Space Telescope image presents the Arches Cluster, the densest known star cluster in the Milky Way NASA & ESA Nasa's most stunning pictures of space An Astronaut's View from Space Nasa astronaut Reid Wiseman tweeted this photo from the International Space Station on 2 September 2014 Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Giant Landform on Mars On Mars, we can observe four classes of sandy landforms formed by the wind, or aeolian bedforms: ripples, transverse aeolian ridges, dunes, and what are called draa Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Expedition 39 Landing A sokol suit helmet can be seen against the window of the Soyuz TMA-11M capsule shortly after the spacecraft landed with Expedition 39 Commander Koichi Wakata of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Soyuz Commander Mikhail Tyurin of Roscosmos, and Flight Engineer Rick Mastracchio of NASA near the town of Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan (NASA/Bill Ingalls) Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Jupiter's Great Red Spot Viewed by Voyager I Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system and perhaps the most majestic. Vibrant bands of clouds carried by winds that can exceed 400 mph continuously circle the planet's atmosphere Nasa's most stunning pictures of space Chandra Observatory Sees a Heart in the Darkness This Chandra X-Ray Observatory image of the young star cluster NGC 346 highlights a heart-shaped cloud of 8 million-degree Celsius gas in the central region

The scientists spotted waves around Jupiter's moon that are a million times more powerful than they are down on our planet, and yet more that are 100 times more intense around Europa.

The discovery was made using the Galileo Probe spacecraft, which undertook a comprehensive survey of Jupiter's wave environment.

"It's a really surprising and puzzling observation showing that a moon with a magnetic field can create such a tremendous intensification in the power of waves", says the lead author of the study Yuri Shprits.

The waves appear to be partly caused by the intense magnetic field of Jupiter, which is the solar system's strongest and 20,000 times more powerful than on Earth.

"Chorus waves have been detected in space around the Earth but they are nowhere near as strong as the waves at Jupiter" says Richard Horne of British Antarctic Survey who is a co-author on the study. "Even if small portion of these waves escapes the immediate vicinity of Ganymede, they will be capable of accelerating particles to very high energies and ultimately producing very fast electrons inside Jupiter's magnetic field".
Speaker Sumitra Mahajan had to adjourn the House for 10 minutes due to the Zero Hour uproar.

Sexual exploitation of girls at a Muzaffarpur shelter home was uncovered more than a month ago during its audit by a Mumbai-based social science institute. (Photo: Youtube Screengrab)

New Delhi: The Opposition walked out of the Lok Sabha on Monday after vociferously protesting over the alleged rapes in the Muzaffarpur shelter home in Bihar and seeking justice for the victims.

Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal and Trinamul Congress MPs walked out after some of them stormed into the Well of the House during Zero Hour, raising slogans against the Bihar government and seeking a reply from home minister Rajnath Singh, who was in the House at the beginning. Speaker Sumitra Mahajan had to adjourn the House for 10 minutes due to the Zero Hour uproar.

As soon as proceedings began for the day in the Lok Sabha, two MPs from Bihar  Congress Ranjit Ranjan and RJDs Jai Prakash Narayan Yadav  entered the Well protesting against the alleged torture and rape of over 30 young girls at the shelter home in Muzaffarpur for over four years.

The medical examination of 34 of the 42 shelter home inmates had confirmed they were sexually exploited. The owner of the shelter, run by NGO Seva Sankalp Evam Vikas Samiti, Brajesh Thakur, is the main accused.

The two MPs alleged that some evidence was destroyed before the case was handed over to the CBI by the Bihar government, and said they wanted to raise the issue. Ms Ranjan and Mr Yadav were backed by Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, NCPs Tariq Anwar and others.

While the protesting members returned to their seats as Speaker Sumitra Mahajan told them they could raise the issue during Zero Hour, they began their protests as soon as Zero Hour started and again trooped into the Well.

TDP MPs could also be seen standing in the Well with placards, seeking relief package for backward districts of Andhra Pradesh.

Ms Ranjan alleged the victims were being shifted to other locations after their medical examination and that the main victim had disappeared. She alleged that if the proofs related to the case were wiped out, there would be nothing left for the CBI to investigate.Mr Yadav alleged that investigation reports of 14 such homes were still not made public and FIRs were being changed. He further alleged that the state government was supporting the accused in the matter.

Ms Mahajan, amidst an uproar, adjourned the House at 12.20 pm for 10 minutes. When the House reconvened, she said it was a sensitive issue involving atrocities on young girls and women, and expressed the hope that the CBI probe ordered by the state government would be effective and the issues raised by MPs in the House would also taken into cognisance. The Opposition MPs, however, continued their protests, with Mr Kharge seeking a response from the Union home minister. Soon after that, the Congress, RJD and TMC staged a walkout.

The TDP MPs, protesting against the taking backof relief meant for Andhra Pradeshs backward districts by the Centre, also walked out of the House after alleging injustice on the governments part. They also tore up papers before leaving the House.
Members of a people-smuggling gang have been found guilty of attempting to bring Albanian migrants in boats across the English Channel to Kent.

The men used four boats to ferry people from France to the south coast of England and later considered using jetskis to make the crossing.

Following an Old Bailey trial, six men from the Kent-based transport gang and their Albanian travel agents were convicted of people-smuggling.

When the rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) they had planned to use for the plot got into trouble, ran out of fuel and had to be rescued, the gang turned to the alternative of a three-person jetski.

Had they not been stopped by a National Crime Agency-led surveillance operation, they would have been the first to have tried to run migrants across the worlds busiest shipping route on jetskis.

The court heard that migrants, including men, women and children, were charged up to 6,000 each to journey across the English Channel.

The gang had little boating experience and were apparently ignorant of the dangers they were exposing their victims to.

In the months before their arrests, the group made several unsuccessful attempts to transport migrants across the Channel in lightweight crafts.

One occasion in May 2016 almost ended in tragedy, when the gang, under the watch of NCA agents, picked up 18 migrants from France  including two children aged 16 and 17 and a woman.

On the return journey, they ran out of fuel and the migrants were forced to start bailing out as it flooded with seawater.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 25 October 2021 Second World War veteran James White, 96, at the opening of the Edinburgh Garden of Remembrance, marking the start of the remembrance period PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2021 Richard Ratcliffe holds up a photo of his wife Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe as he protests outside the Foreign Office while on hunger strike, part of an effort to lobby the UK foreign secretary to bring his wife home from detention in Iran Getty UK news in pictures 23 October 2021 Partner of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, Stella Morris and Editor in Chief of WikiLeaks Kristinn Hrafnsson attend a protest ahead of the appeal hearing over Assange's extradition, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 22 October 2021 Palace Gardener Justine Howlett adds the finishing touches to pumpkins bearing the face of Henry VIII and his wives, at Hampton Court Palace. PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2021 Flooded fields near Lingfield in Surrey, after southern England was hit overnight by heavy rain and strong winds from Storm Aurore moving in from France PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2021 A wing surfer enjoys the strong winds as they surf in the sea off of Hayling Island in Hampshire PA UK news in pictures 19 October 2021 Actor Jude Law holds hands with Little Amal, a 3.5-metre-tall puppet of a nine-year-old Syrian girl, as it arrives in Folkestone, Kent, as part of the Handspring Puppet Company's 'The Walk' PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2021 A view over Southend-on-Sea in Essex, which is set to become a city in tribute to Sir David Amess MP, who spent years campaigning for the change Getty UK news in pictures 17 October 2021 Members of the Essex Bangladeshi Welfare Association pay their respects by floral tributes laid at the scene where Sir David Amess MP was killed at Belfairs Methodist Church, in Leigh-on-Sea Reuters UK news in pictures 16 October 2021 Boris Johnson, Sir Keir Starmer, Priti Patel and Lindsay Hoyle pay respects to Sir David Amess at Belfairs Methodist Church, in Leigh-on-Sea, the site of his death EPA UK news in pictures 15 October 2021 A person lays flowers at the scene near the Belfairs Methodist Church in Eastwood Road North, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, where Conservative MP Sir David Amess has died after he was stabbed several times at a constituency surgery. A man has been arrested and officers are not looking for anyone else PA UK news in pictures 14 October 2021 A red deer stag during rutting season in Bushy Park, Richmond, south west London, which is home to over 300 red and fallow deer PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2021 Police officers detain a man as Insulate Britain activists block a roundabout at a junction on the M25 motorway during a protest in Thurrock Reuters UK news in pictures 12 October 2021 The aerial climate installation by Swiss artivist Dan Acher 'We Are Watching' is unveiled at Our Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2021 A young girl is helped by a Border Force officer as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, following a small boat incident in the Channel. PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2021 People walk past a life-size sculpture of British singer John Lennon entitled "Imagine", by sculptor Lawrence Holofcener, displayed to mark what would have been the 81st birthday for the former member of the Beatles in Carnaby Street Reuters UK news in pictures 8 October 2021 WW II veteran, 96-year-old Lorna Cockayne, who served in the Women's Royal Naval Service (WRNS), popularly and officially known as the Wrens, as a Bletchley Park codebreaker, poses for a photograph with the Legion d'honneur after receiving it during a ceremony at the Pear at Parley in Ferndown, Bournemouth PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2021 British comedian Jo Brand poses with cut-out silhouettes representing women outside the Metropolitan Police headquarters New Scotland Yard, to highlight violence against women by male police officers or former police officers AFP via Getty 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. 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The terrified group sent desperate text messages, with one saying: We are in England, tell police, we are drowning.

However, coastguard helicopter and RNLI crews were able to rescue those stranded onboard.

In July 2016, the crafts two-man crew of Mark Stribling, 35, from Farningham, Kent, and Robert Stilwell, 33, from Dartford, Kent, were jailed.

Undeterred, the remaining gang members bought another larger boat from Southampton, which they referred to as the Boat With No Name.

NCA operatives planted a bug on the boat to listen in as the gang plotted their next migrant run.

On 25 July, one member of the gang, Albert Letchford, took out the Boat With No Name but ran into rough sea and turned back.

NCA officers observed three of the defendants travel together to Sheerness where they bought a jetski, believed to be for the purpose of transporting migrants from France to the UK (NCA)

A few weeks later, the NCA secretly filmed a meeting of the Kent gang meeting their Albanian partners in a pub car park.

They went together to buy a jetski with a view to using it to transport migrants from France to Britain.

The NCA moved in to arrest them over safety fears if the jetski was brought into use.

The ringleaders were Leonard Powell, from Dartford, and his son Alfie, 39, of no fixed address.

Another son, George Powell, had already admitted his part in the conspiracy.

Following a trial, Leonard and Alfie Powell were found guilty of conspiring to breach immigration law along with Wayne Bath, 38, of Sheerness, Kent; Sabah Dulaj, 23, of no fixed address; Albert Letchford, 42, of Dartford; and Arthur Nutaj, 39, of north London.

Alan Viles, 28, of Folkestone, Kent; Francis Wade, 59, of Rochester, Kent, had denied having anything to do with the plot and were found not guilty after a jury deliberated for 29 hours.

NCA senior investigator Mark McCormack said the smuggling gang was dangerously incompetent.

We have people controlling vessels with no maritime experience, no sailing experience, who have completed very rudimentary courses of one or two days, trying to cross this busy shipping channel at night in a small vessel not utilising lights or radar, he said.

So it increases the risk of migrants coming over and it puts their lives at real risk, which is why we at the NCA were trying to stop those people.

During the surveillance, one gang member was seen putting in the wrong satellite navigation code, using the postcode for France instead.

That just shows the level of incompetency of the crime group, Mr McCormack added.

Judge Mark Dennis QC adjourned sentencing until a date to be fixed.

Additional reporting by PA
The Tory Islamophobia row has intensified after Theresa May demanded Boris Johnson apologise for comparing women wearing burqas and niqabs to bank robbers and letter boxes.

The prime minister said the former foreign secretarys comments had clearly caused offence, as controversy around his words grew on Tuesday.

Her intervention followed a wave of anger from senior Conservatives, who slammed Mr Johnsons remarks as Islamophobic and accused him of partaking in dog-whistle politics to stoke a future populist leadership bid.

Recommended Conservative chairman tells Johnson to apologise for niqab remarks

The chair of the Conservative Muslim Forum also told The Independent his words pander to the far-right narrative that Muslims do not belong in this country.

But Mr Johnson has refused to back down, with friends claiming it is ridiculous to criticise his comments and accusing party chiefs of shutting down the debate.

Taking time out of an official trip to Scotland in a bid to try and get a grip on the controversy, Ms May said: I do think that we all have to be very careful about the language and terms we use.

And some of the terms Boris used describing peoples appearance obviously have offended. So I agree with [Tory chairman] Brandon Lewis [that Mr Johnson should apologise].

 Afzal Khan challenges Theresa May on Islamophobia in the Conservative Party

Whats important is do we believe people should have the right to practise their religion and, in the case of women and the burqa and niqab, to choose how they dress. I believe women should be able to choose how they dress.

The prime minister said she believed it was right to discuss such issues openly, but reiterated the need for care in the language used and added that Mr Johnsons words, published in an article for The Daily Telegraph, had clearly caused offence.

The furore was sparked when Mr Johnson wrote in his column that Muslim women wearing headdresses were choosing to go around looking like letter boxes.

He then added that if a women turned up to his surgery wearing a face covering, he should feel entitled to ask her to remove it.

 Donald Trump says the UK is 'in turmoil' and that he's looking for ward to meet Boris Johnson

The former London mayor went on: If a female student turned up at school or at a university lecture looking like a bank robber, then ditto.

The backlash against Mr Johnson began when his former deputy at the Foreign Office, minister Alistair Burt, said he would never have made such comments and argued that there was a degree of offence in them.

As pressure on Ms May to intervene grew, Mr Lewis took to Twitter to say he agreed with Mr Burt and called on Mr Johnson to apologise.

Tory MP Heidi Allen tweeted that Mr Johnsons comments made him about as suitable to be PM as he was foreign secretary. Her Conservative colleagues Anna Soubry and Jonathan Djanogly also spoke out against Mr Johnson, while Paul Masterton MP accused him of mocking women.

Mohammed Amin, chairman of the Conservative Muslim Forum, which has repeatedly complained about Islamophobia in the party, accused Mr Johnson of pandering to extremists and making inflammatory and divisive comments.

He told The Independent: Boris Johnsons comments are very divisive and extremely unfortunate. He is free to say that he feels uncomfortable with people wearing burqas, but when he mocks women who wear it and compares them to letter boxes and bank robbers, that it is wrong.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 26 October 2021 Activist Steve Bray demonstrates with a toilet outside the gates of Downing Street, after MPs voted in Parliament against the Environment Bill, allowing companies to pump raw sewage into UK rivers and seas, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 October 2021 Second World War veteran James White, 96, at the opening of the Edinburgh Garden of Remembrance, marking the start of the remembrance period PA UK news in pictures 24 October 2021 Richard Ratcliffe holds up a photo of his wife Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe as he protests outside the Foreign Office while on hunger strike, part of an effort to lobby the UK foreign secretary to bring his wife home from detention in Iran Getty UK news in pictures 23 October 2021 Partner of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, Stella Morris and Editor in Chief of WikiLeaks Kristinn Hrafnsson attend a protest ahead of the appeal hearing over Assange's extradition, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 22 October 2021 Palace Gardener Justine Howlett adds the finishing touches to pumpkins bearing the face of Henry VIII and his wives, at Hampton Court Palace. PA UK news in pictures 21 October 2021 Flooded fields near Lingfield in Surrey, after southern England was hit overnight by heavy rain and strong winds from Storm Aurore moving in from France PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2021 A wing surfer enjoys the strong winds as they surf in the sea off of Hayling Island in Hampshire PA UK news in pictures 19 October 2021 Actor Jude Law holds hands with Little Amal, a 3.5-metre-tall puppet of a nine-year-old Syrian girl, as it arrives in Folkestone, Kent, as part of the Handspring Puppet Company's 'The Walk' PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2021 A view over Southend-on-Sea in Essex, which is set to become a city in tribute to Sir David Amess MP, who spent years campaigning for the change Getty UK news in pictures 17 October 2021 Members of the Essex Bangladeshi Welfare Association pay their respects by floral tributes laid at the scene where Sir David Amess MP was killed at Belfairs Methodist Church, in Leigh-on-Sea Reuters UK news in pictures 16 October 2021 Boris Johnson, Sir Keir Starmer, Priti Patel and Lindsay Hoyle pay respects to Sir David Amess at Belfairs Methodist Church, in Leigh-on-Sea, the site of his death EPA UK news in pictures 15 October 2021 A person lays flowers at the scene near the Belfairs Methodist Church in Eastwood Road North, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, where Conservative MP Sir David Amess has died after he was stabbed several times at a constituency surgery. A man has been arrested and officers are not looking for anyone else PA UK news in pictures 14 October 2021 A red deer stag during rutting season in Bushy Park, Richmond, south west London, which is home to over 300 red and fallow deer PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2021 Police officers detain a man as Insulate Britain activists block a roundabout at a junction on the M25 motorway during a protest in Thurrock Reuters UK news in pictures 12 October 2021 The aerial climate installation by Swiss artivist Dan Acher 'We Are Watching' is unveiled at Our Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2021 A young girl is helped by a Border Force officer as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, following a small boat incident in the Channel. PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2021 People walk past a life-size sculpture of British singer John Lennon entitled "Imagine", by sculptor Lawrence Holofcener, displayed to mark what would have been the 81st birthday for the former member of the Beatles in Carnaby Street Reuters UK news in pictures 8 October 2021 WW II veteran, 96-year-old Lorna Cockayne, who served in the Women's Royal Naval Service (WRNS), popularly and officially known as the Wrens, as a Bletchley Park codebreaker, poses for a photograph with the Legion d'honneur after receiving it during a ceremony at the Pear at Parley in Ferndown, Bournemouth PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2021 British comedian Jo Brand poses with cut-out silhouettes representing women outside the Metropolitan Police headquarters New Scotland Yard, to highlight violence against women by male police officers or former police officers AFP via Getty 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

His words were inflammatory and pander to the far-right narrative that Muslims do not belong in this country. These comments divide our country at a time when we are under so much stress already.

Former cabinet minister Lady Warsi accused Mr Johnson of adopting the dog whistle tactics of former Donald Trump aide Steve Bannon in the hope of attracting support from right-wing Tories for an eventual leadership bid.

Repeating her call for an independent inquiry into Islamophobia in the Conservative Party, she said: Muslim women should not be a useful political battleground for Old Etonians.

It is crass and it must stop, and it must be condemned by the leadership right from the prime minister down.

 Baroness Warsi on Boris Johnson's comments about Muslim women's dress

Amid the controversy, a source close to Boris Johnson hit back, claiming it was ridiculous that the comments he made were being targetted by people in his own party.

The source said: Its ridiculous these views are being attacked  we mustnt fall into the trap of shutting down the debate on difficult issues.

We have to call it out. If we fail to speak up for liberal values then were simply yielding ground to reactionaries and extremists.

Conservative MP Andrew Bridgen also said Mr Johnson did not need to apologise, saying the former foreign secretary had been trying to raise the subject in a lighthearted way.

I think if you can get your point across with a little bit of humour its very much appreciated by the public, he added.

Labours shadow minister for women and equalities, Naz Shah, also called for an independent inquiry into islamophobia in the Conservative Party following Mr Johnsons comments.

She said: Boris Johnsons comments were not just offensive, they were Islamophobic but the prime minister is in denial.

An apology is not enough: she needs to order an independent inquiry into Islamophobia in her party, as requested by the Muslim community, and take action against him.
Law enforcement in New York City has launched an investigation after a human foetus was discovered in an airplane bathroom, local news outlets reported.

The discovery was made after the flight travelled from Charlotte, North Carolina to New Yorks LaGuardia airport, where it had been parked overnight. The jet was reportedly removed from the hangar by authorities after the foetus was found inside the aircraft on Tuesday morning.

A cleaning crew made the gruesome discovery, according to NBC New York, before the Port Authority police department arrived to the scene.

Recommended Dead baby found in plane toilet

In a statement, American Airlines appeared to confirm its aircraft was involved in a police investigation at the New York airport.

"We have no major impact to our operation this morning while we are working with law enforcement on an investigation," the airline told NBC New York.

The Port Authority law enforcement, which covers the LaGuardia airport region, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The Queens District Attorney's Office said it was looking into the incident.

 Chinese woman gives birth on airplane

The aircraft was out-of-service on Tuesday morning when the cleaning crew was servicing the plane at around 7:30 a.m., the New York Post reported.

LaGuardia warned of possible delays for American Airlines "due to an out of service aircraft" in a tweet posted just before 9:00am.

Sources told NBC New York the foetus could have been approximately five to six months old. An autopsy will reportedly be conducted by the medical examiners office in order to determine the cause of death.
At least 14,000 firefighters, with volunteers that include prison inmates, are battling 18 major fires that are burning across thousands of square miles throughout California.

On 6 August, twin fires being treated as one incident, north of San Francisco became the largest wildfire in state history, destroying 443 sq miles (1,148 sq km)  an area nearly the size of Los Angeles.

The size of the fire, known as the Mendocino Complex fire, has surpassed that of last years Thomas fire, which burned 281,893 acres in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties when it destroyed more than 1,000 structures.

Evacuations have been ordered across California and the rapid spread of the blazes is showing no sign of slowing, with gusty winds threatening to fan the flames even further.

Firefighters will tackle the fires directly with water and retardant where they can. And when they cant take that direct approach, they will retreat to a ridge, wide road or stream where they use bulldozers to cut a fire line.

There theyll wait for the blaze to come to them while lighting backfires to clear vegetation between the fire line and the approaching blaze.

Experts say whichever approach Cal Fire takes, California firefighters are often more aggressive in trying to extinguish wildfires than those in other less-populated states. Thats because California wildfires are increasingly threatening sprawling urban areas.

Cal Fire is really an urban firefighter service in the woods, said Arizona State University life sciences professor Stephen Pyne, a wildfire management expert.

California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Show all 45 1 /45 California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters try to limit the spread of the Carr Fire by backburning, a process by which areas in the path of a fire are burned up in advance to rob the fire of its fuel Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A street is devastated by the Carr Fire in the town of Redding AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A truck burned by the Delta Fire is abandoned along interstate 5 AFP/Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 This image from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration highlights the major fire AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Ranch Fire spots out ahead of the main fire in Spring Valley, burning two homes AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A picture taken by German astronaut and geophysicist Alexander Gerst, showing wildfires in the state of California as seen from the International Space Station AFP/Getty/ESA/Alexander Gerst California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Evacuees from Lucerne, from left, Ken Bennett with Ember Reynolds, 8, and Lisa Reynolds watch the sunset as smoke from the Ranch Fire rises into the sky at Austin Park Beach in California's Clearlake with Mount Konocti in the background The Press Democrat via AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The memorial for Redding firefighter Jeremy Stoke AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 REUTERS California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Holy Jim volunteer firefighter Luke Senger stands next to a home destroyed the Holy Fire in Trabuco Canyon AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters try to stop the spread of a massive fire in Lake County AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A woman walks out of the water after taking a dip as smoke rises in the distance from the Holy Fire in Cleveland National Forest Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A pyrocumulus cloud (or cloud of fire) explodes in the Carr fire near the town of Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Delta Fire burns in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Trees set alight near Whiskeytown Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 An firefighting aircraft drops fire retardant to slow the spread of the River Fire near Lakeport Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A firefighter lights backfires in an attempt to limit the spread of the Ranch Fire Reuters California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters light backfires to defend houses in the town Upper Lake from the Ranch Fire Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Flames consume a home in Lakeport AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Ranch Fire spread towards the town of Upper Lake AFP/Getty Images California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A firefighter lights a backfire in the city of Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns near Whiskeytown AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters try to limit the spread of the Carr Fire by backburning Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Flames flare in the Cajon Pass near San Bernardino AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 An firefighting aircraft drops fire retardant to slow the spread of the River Fire near Lakeport Reuters California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A schoolhouse burns in the Carr Fire in Shasta County AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns along Highway 299 by the city of Redding AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A car is seen amongst the devastation left by the Cranston Fire EPA California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A firefighter waters down a backfire on Cloverdale Road in Igo AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters convene while battling the Carr Fire in Shasta County AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters assess the damage in San Bernardino County AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns along Highway 299 by the city of Redding AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns along Highway 299 in Shasta County AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The land around Mountain Centre has been left devastated by the Cranston Fire EPA California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters battle the Carr Fire in the town of Redding AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A home burns in Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Cranston Fire burns south of Idyllwild AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns through the town of Shasta AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A home burns in Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A collection of antique cars has been destroyed by the fire in the town of Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A home on Sunflower Road in Redding burns in the Carr Fire Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A helicopter aids utility workers as they work to repair burned power lines EPA California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A home burns in Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns along Highway 299 by the city of Redding AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Sunflower Road in Redding burns in the Carr Fire Getty

Cal Fire spokesman Scott McLean said firefighters use both approaches to battle the large blazes, including the growing twin fires about 100 miles (160km) north of San Francisco.

Mr McLean said firefighters are using the direct approach to prevent the fires from reaching urban areas along Clear Lake while retreating in national forests and letting the fire come to us.

Experts have said its impossible to surround a fire that large, especially with 17 other major fires requiring attention in the state.

We are building lines. Picking and choosing where we think we can take a stand, Mr McLean said. Attacking it where we can and waiting and letting it come to us when appropriate.

Experts say the best way to fight these destructive wildfires is to prevent them in the first place when building homes and other buildings.

Its the embers, not the fire itself, that destroy most homes, said Steve Conboy, a construction expert whose company develops fire-resistant chemicals to apply to wood.

Agencies contributed to this report
Donald Trump has attacked California's "environmental laws", blaming them for the recent deadly wildfires.

The president called for state governor Jerry Brown to allow the free flow of water he insisted was foolishly being diverted to the Pacific Ocean.

Mr Trump addressed the wildfire tragedy on Twitter by weighing in on what he perceives to be the issues that have magnified the fires.

California wildfires are being magnified [and] made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilised, he wrote. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!

Mr Trump went on to target his criticism at Mr Brown.

"Governor Jerry Brown must allow the Free Flow of the vast amounts of water coming from the North and foolishly being diverted into the Pacific Ocean," he wrote. He added that water can be used for fires, farming and everything else.

Mr Trumps comments were met with public backlash on social media by people who expressed confusion over the presidents statement that readily available water has been diverted into the Pacific Ocean.

Scott McLean, a spokesperson for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection told The Independent that with bodies of water surrounding wildfires, access to water to battle the rapidly expanding fires has not been an issue.

So no, theres no water issues  theyre having no issues to access to water, he said.

LeRoy Westerling, a University of California Merced professor specialising in wildfires and climatology told the San Francisco Chronicle that Mr Trumps comments on the states diversion of water is mind boggling.

On the water side, it boggles the mind, he said. We do manage all of our rivers in California, and all the water is allocated many times over. So Im not sure what he was recommending.

He added: Even if we eliminated all habitat for riparian species and fish, and allowed saltwater intrusion into the delta and set up a sprinkler system over the state, that wouldnt compensate for greater moisture loss from climate change.

California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Show all 45 1 /45 California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters try to limit the spread of the Carr Fire by backburning, a process by which areas in the path of a fire are burned up in advance to rob the fire of its fuel Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A street is devastated by the Carr Fire in the town of Redding AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A truck burned by the Delta Fire is abandoned along interstate 5 AFP/Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 This image from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration highlights the major fire AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Ranch Fire spots out ahead of the main fire in Spring Valley, burning two homes AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A picture taken by German astronaut and geophysicist Alexander Gerst, showing wildfires in the state of California as seen from the International Space Station AFP/Getty/ESA/Alexander Gerst California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Evacuees from Lucerne, from left, Ken Bennett with Ember Reynolds, 8, and Lisa Reynolds watch the sunset as smoke from the Ranch Fire rises into the sky at Austin Park Beach in California's Clearlake with Mount Konocti in the background The Press Democrat via AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The memorial for Redding firefighter Jeremy Stoke AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 REUTERS California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Holy Jim volunteer firefighter Luke Senger stands next to a home destroyed the Holy Fire in Trabuco Canyon AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters try to stop the spread of a massive fire in Lake County AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A woman walks out of the water after taking a dip as smoke rises in the distance from the Holy Fire in Cleveland National Forest Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A pyrocumulus cloud (or cloud of fire) explodes in the Carr fire near the town of Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Delta Fire burns in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Trees set alight near Whiskeytown Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 An firefighting aircraft drops fire retardant to slow the spread of the River Fire near Lakeport Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A firefighter lights backfires in an attempt to limit the spread of the Ranch Fire Reuters California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters light backfires to defend houses in the town Upper Lake from the Ranch Fire Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Flames consume a home in Lakeport AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Ranch Fire spread towards the town of Upper Lake AFP/Getty Images California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A firefighter lights a backfire in the city of Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns near Whiskeytown AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters try to limit the spread of the Carr Fire by backburning Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Flames flare in the Cajon Pass near San Bernardino AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 An firefighting aircraft drops fire retardant to slow the spread of the River Fire near Lakeport Reuters California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A schoolhouse burns in the Carr Fire in Shasta County AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns along Highway 299 by the city of Redding AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A car is seen amongst the devastation left by the Cranston Fire EPA California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A firefighter waters down a backfire on Cloverdale Road in Igo AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters convene while battling the Carr Fire in Shasta County AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters assess the damage in San Bernardino County AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns along Highway 299 by the city of Redding AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns along Highway 299 in Shasta County AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The land around Mountain Centre has been left devastated by the Cranston Fire EPA California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Firefighters battle the Carr Fire in the town of Redding AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A home burns in Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Cranston Fire burns south of Idyllwild AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns through the town of Shasta AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A home burns in Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A collection of antique cars has been destroyed by the fire in the town of Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A home on Sunflower Road in Redding burns in the Carr Fire Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A helicopter aids utility workers as they work to repair burned power lines EPA California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 A home burns in Redding Getty California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 The Carr Fire burns along Highway 299 by the city of Redding AP California in flames: wildfires rage across the US state in 2018 Sunflower Road in Redding burns in the Carr Fire Getty

The Medocino Complex Fire and the Carr Fire have destroyed more than 1,000 homes combined and forced thousands to flee. Officials have declared the Medocino Complex Fire as the second-largest wildfire recorded in the state, according to Reuters. The Carr Fire has claimed the lives of at least seven victims.

In response to Mr Trump's tweets, many have taken to Twitter to address the grave effects of climate change and scientific consensus that the Earth's climate is warming.

Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey responded to Mr Trump's statements addressing climate change in a post published to Twitter.

"Donald Trump can try to change the topic, but he wont be able to divert our attention away from the fact that the hotter, drier weather magnifying the California wildfires is linked to climate change," he wrote. "And it will keep getting worse as long as we fail to act."
European companies should still be able to trade with Iran despite new US sanctions, according to minister of state for the Middle East, Alaistair Burt.

The announcement came just before Donald Trump tweeted on Tuesday that anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States.

The EU has launched a blocking statute, designed to allow companies within the bloc to sue the Trump administration, if they are adversely affected by US sanctions, and has encouraged member states to continue trading with Tehran.

This legislation should protect businesses in member states who do not wish to break off economic ties with Tehran despite the reinstatement of US sanctions which came into effect on Tuesday, Mr Burt told the BBC.

If a company fears legal action taken against it and enforcement action taken against it by an entity in response to American sanctions then that company can be protected as far as EU legislation is concerned, added Mr Burt.

 Trump says he would meet with Iran's leaders without preconditions

It is a commercial decision for companies whether they continue to work in Iran.

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt issued a joint statement with EU foreign ministers on their determination to protect European businesses working with Iranian companies.

The comments come as Mr Trump reiterated threats against international firms that choose to ignore the sanctions, which snapped back into place following the US withdrawal in May from the 2015 nuclear deal.

The Obama-era deal, which Mr Trump promised to scrap before taking office, gave Iran sanctions relief in return for curbs on its nuclear programme.

The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level, the president tweeted on Tuesday.

Iran's 'Trumpism' contest Show all 10 1 /10 Iran's 'Trumpism' contest Iran's 'Trumpism' contest AFP/Getty Images Iran's 'Trumpism' contest AFP/Getty Images Iran's 'Trumpism' contest AFP/Getty Images Iran's 'Trumpism' contest AFP/Getty Images Iran's 'Trumpism' contest AFP/Getty Images Iran's 'Trumpism' contest AFP/Getty Images Iran's 'Trumpism' contest AFP/Getty Images Iran's 'Trumpism' contest AFP/Getty Images Iran's 'Trumpism' contest AFP/Getty Images Iran's 'Trumpism' contest AFP/Getty Images

Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!

EU officials, however, have said the US demands do not apply beyond its borders.

Firms which decide to follow the Washington directive will need to seek permission from the European commission first, and a mechanism will allow EU companies whose business is affected by the US move to sue the Trump administration for damages in national courts of member states.

Recommended Protests rock Iran on eve of US sanctions

A similar measure was brought in to protect EU companies after the US reimposed sanctions against Cuba, to mixed effect.

It is also unclear whether the EU legislation could be brought over into UK law to apply to Britain once the country officially leaves the bloc next March.

 White House: Trump will not allow Iran to keep making threats against US

A joint statement from EU foreign ministers on Monday said there is a determination to protect member states economic interests.

The other members of the Iran nuclear deal  the UK, France, Russia, China and Germany  have vowed to support it.

Also on Monday, Iranian president Hassan Rouhani dismissed the US sanctions and a new round proposed for November as psychological warfare against the country.

Agencies contributed to this report
 Close Ex-Trump Campaign Chair Manafort's Court Arrival

Paul Manafort's longtime deputy Rick Gates has told court that he spent years disguising millions of dollars in foreign income as loans to lower Donald Trumps former campaign chairman's tax bill

MrGates, the government's star witness, testified that he and Mr Manafort used offshore shell companies and bank accounts in Cyprus to funnel the money, all while concealing the accounts and the income from US tax authorities.

In Cyprus, they were documented as loans. In reality, it was basically money moving between accounts, Mr Gates said during his second day of testimony in the bank fraud trial,

Under cross examination Mr Gates, admitted that he had another relationship involving first-class flights and luxury hotels, but denied these were funded with money embezzled from Manafort. Mr Manafort's defence called this "the secret Rick Gates".

Prosecutors summoned Mr Gates, described by witnesses as Mr Manafort's right-hand man, to give jurors the first-hand account of a co-conspirator they allege helped Mr Manafort carry out an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and bank fraud scheme.

Recommended Rick Gates admits to committing crimes while working for Paul Manafort

On Monday, Mr Gates said the pair had committed crimes together by stashing money in foreign bank accounts and falsifying bank loan documents in order to disguise income from US tax officials.

He also acknowledged having embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Mr Manafort.

Mr Manafort has pleaded not guilty to 18 counts of bank and tax fraud and failing to disclose foreign bank accounts.

The charges largely predate his five months on the Trump campaign.

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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 Manaforts defence hinges on pinning the blame on his former aide, and his attorneys have accused Mr Gates of embezzling millions of dollars from his former boss.

Recommended Why Paul Manafort is on trial and how it could affect Donald Trump

The case drew scores of people who waited in line for hours outside the courthouse and then jammed into both the courtroom and an overflow room that contained a video feed of the proceedings.

In early testimony on Tuesday, Mr Gates related his role in setting up offshore bank accounts for Mr Manafort, a complex arrangement that was requested by those paying for Mr Manafort's political consultancy work in Ukraine.

Mr Gates testified that Mr Manafort negotiated the offshore payment structure in person with Ukrainian business people, and then Mr Gates would then codify the details in writing.

Mr Gates also described to jurors how he repeatedly submitted fake financial documents allegedly at Manafort's behest as his former boss became concerned he was paying too much in taxes and, later, that his funds were drying up after the consultancy work fell away after 2014

Associated Press
Voters in Michigan are heading to the polls on Tuesday, and they have a lot on their plates: Figuring out who will replace their unpopular governor, challenge their longstanding senator, and take over from a congressman who retired over sexual harassment allegations.

In the 7 August primary election, voters will select one candidate from each party to compete in the midterm elections this fall. Up for grabs are the governors mansion, one US Senate seat, and 14 different US House seats.

The state is primed for a possible Democratic upheaval, according to pollsters, with two traditionally Republican districts now seen as a toss-up between the two parties. The state was a surprise victory for Donald Trump in 2016, but now  with the presidents approval rating sitting at just 44 per cent across the state  things could look quite different.

Here are the midterm races you need to know about.

 People in Macomb County, Michigan are still behind Trump after 100 days

Governor

A wide field of candidates is fighting to replace Republican Governor Rick Snyder, who was ranked the 10th least popular governor in the country by Morning Consult this February. Mr Snyders approval rating has slipped to just 35 per cent in the state, largely due to his handling of the water crisis in Flint.

Recommended Chair of Michigan Republican party resigns because of Trump

The Democratic primary field is getting sizeable amounts of media attention, thanks in part to charismatic candidate Abdul el-Sayed, a young progressive who just scored the endorsements of Senator Bernie Sanders and congressional candidate Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. But Mr el-Sayed is actually the least likely of the Democrats to come out on top, with state Senate Democratic leader Gretchen Whitmer and entrepreneur Shri Thanedar leading him in the latest polls.

Attorney General Bill Schuette is leading the pack on the Republican side, boosted by an early endorsement from Mr Trump (though president managed to misspell his name). Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley comes in second, according to a poll commissioned by the Detroit Free Press, with Senator Patrick Colbeck coming in a distant third.

A NBC/Marist matchup of the most popular candidate from each party predicted Ms Whitmer, the leading Democrat, would beat Mr Schette, the leading Republican, in the November general.

Abdul El-Sayed speaks with the news media after campaigning with New York Democrat candidate for Congress Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez US Senate (Bill Pugliano/Getty Images)

US Senate

Longtime Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow faces no challengers from within her own party on Tuesday, and  according to the Cook Political Report  probably has little to fear from her Republican challenger in November. Nevertheless, business executives John James and Sandy Pensler are duking it out to run against her in the general election.

Mr Pensler  a Yale economist and venture capitalist  maintains a fundraising advantage, thanks to the $5m of his own money he donated to his campaign. Still, recent polls have him in a dead heat with Mr James, who recently secured an endorsement from Mr Trump.

Rarely have I seen a candidate with such great potential. West Point graduate, successful businessman and a African American leader, the president tweeted last month.

Senator Debbie Stabenow speaks with reporters following the weekly policy luncheons in Washington (Aaron P. Bernstein/Getty Images)

US House

All 14 US House seats from Michigan are fair game this year, but a few are attracting considerable outside attention. Two districts that usually lean Republican  the 11th and 8th  are of particular interest, because pollsters now rate them a toss-up.

The 11th district is especially interesting for its celebrity angle: Suneel Gupta, the brother of CNN personality Sanjay Gupta, is running in the Democratic primary. Others in the crowded, six-candidate field include Fayrouz Saad, who is running to be the first Muslim woman in US Congress, and Haley Stevens, who scored an endorsement from Hillary Clinton on Sunday.

In the 8th District, former CIA agent Elissa Slotkin looks likely to best Chris Smith, a professor at Michigan State University, in the Democratic primary. That would leave her to face off against current Republican Representative Bishop  who is seen as vulnerable despite his traditionally red district  in the November generals.

Also of interest is Michigans 13th, where longtime Democratic Representative John Conyers stepped down last year amid allegations of sexual misconduct. Mr Conyers has denied the allegations. His great nephew, state Senator Ian Conyers, had entered the race to replace him, competing against the Detroit city council president, a former state representative, and the mayor of a local town.

No matter who wins, the seat is considered to be safely in the hands of Democrats come November.
A man has been pulled alive from the rubble of a mosque flattened by an earthquake that has wreaked devastation on the Indonesian island of Lombok.

More than 100 people have died and some 20,000 more made homeless by the 6.9 magnitude quake.

Thousands of residents are still waiting for aid while stranded tourists camped on beaches and in the lobbies of damaged hotels on Tuesday, two days after earthquake struck.

Rescuers were struggling to reach all the affected areas and authorities said the death toll was expected to rise.

Although officials have not said how many people they believe are buried beneath the ruins of the Jabal Nur mosque, one rescue worker said about 50 people were praying inside when it collapsed.

Video shot by a soldier shows rescuers shouting Thank God as a man was pulled from a space under the mosques collapsed roof on Monday before staggering away from the ruins supported by forces personnel.

Youre safe, mister, says one of the soldiers as emotion overcomes the man, clad in Islamic robes, and villagers crowd around him.

Disaster agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said many sandals were found in front of the mosque, indicating large numbers of victims, and said he hoped "a lot" of them could be saved.

A woman with a broken leg was rescued from the collapsed mosque on Monday, said villager Supri Yono. Three crushed bodies have also been retrieved.

Were forced to deal with broken bones in the traditional way at home, because the hospital had to deal with hundreds of other injuries, said Budhiawan, head of Lading-Lading village.

Rescuers were using heavy duty cutting equipment on Tuesday to search through tangled mounds of rubble.

Aid organisations that were already on Lombok after it was hit a week earlier by a 6.4 quake that killed 16 people, said they were increasing humanitarian efforts.

Clean drinking water was scarce because of a recent spell of dry weather on the island, Oxfam said.

Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Show all 55 1 /55 Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Rescue workers extract a woman, who survived after being trapped in rubble since the earthquake in Lombok, Indonesia Antara Foto/Ahmad Subaid/Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A man inspects the ruins of houses AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A ten-month old baby girl survivor, Refi, is aided by volunteer doctors at an emergency hospital in Tanjung EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A man riding a motorcycle passes by a damaged house at Sira village in northern Lombok AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Rescuers with sniffer dogs search for victims at a mosque damaged by the earthquake AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian search and rescue teams look for victims at a collapsed mosque Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Search and rescue personnel look for victims AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesians carry an elderly woman at a temporary shelter in Pemenang Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A woman prays near her temporary tent near Tanjung hospital Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Search and rescue personnel look for victims AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Rescue teams search for victims in the rubble caused by an earthquake at a Mosque in North Lombok AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Tourists sleep while waiting to depart from the Praya Lombok International Airport on the West Nusa Tenggara AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A doctor and paramedics give medical treatment to a man injured in the earthquake AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Rescue teams search for victims AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Tourists sleep on the floor as they wait to depart from the Praya Lombok International Airport AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian search and rescue personnel work on a collapsed mosque in Pemenang, North Lombok AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island An elderly man rests in a makeshift hospital after surviving a major earthquake in Kayangan on Lombok AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Tourists affected by a strong earthquake line up on a beach as they wait to be evacuated on Gili Trawangan AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian rescuers search for victims under the ruin of a collapsed house after an earthquake struck in North Lombok, Indonesia EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A father accompanies his injured child outside of Tanjung hospital, Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A damaged in Pemenang, North Lombok AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Makeshift tents are erected to be used as a temporary shelter for those affected AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Usable items are salvaged from a home destroyed in an earthquake in North Lombok AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island According to media reports, a 7.0 magnitude quake hit Indonesia's island of Lombok on 5 August, killing at least 91 people AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Hospital patients are moved to an emergency tent outside of a hospital building in Denpasar, Bali EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Map locating the earthquake in Lombok Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian soldiers carry the body of an earthquake victim Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Evacuation from Gili Trawangan in Indonesia James Kelsall/PA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Workers cleanup parts of a shopping mall building which collapsed after an earthquake, in Denpasar, Bali EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Recovered items sit next to destroyed buildings in Pemenang in northern Lombok AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Hundreds of people attempting to leave Gili Trawangan AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian local residents stay outside of their collapsed houses EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Rescue personnel stands next to a motorcycle that fell down at a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Hospital staff treat patients outside a hospital after a major earthquake rocked Indonesia's Lombok island, in Mataram AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island People affected by the earthquake rest at a temporary shelter in Lombok AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A man removes debris outside a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island People react following an earthquake in Ampenan district, Mataram, Lombok Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A hospital patient is moved outside of the hospital building in Denpasar, Bali EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A policeman gestures as he walks next to damaged bikes and debris at a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island People next to an ambulance near the Golden Palace Hotel after an earthquake hit Lombok Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Residents stand next to bikes and debris at a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian soldiers tend to a woman injured in the earthquake at a makeshift hospital in Lombok AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Tourists wait outside a hotel in Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island People clean up debris following a strong earthquake on nearby Lombok island, in Denpasar Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island An ambulance near Golden Palace Hotel after an earthquake hit Lombok Island Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesians stand on road outside a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Security and mall personnel walk over debris AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Residents wait as they evacuate to higher ground AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island An ambulance rushes out of the hospital AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Hospital patients and relatives wait outside in Mataram AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Hospital patients and relatives stand outside after being evacuated in Mataram AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A hospital patient is moved outside EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Residents evacuate by motorcycle Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A hospital patient is moved outside EPA

On Tuesday hundreds of tourists remained trapped on three resort islands near the epicentre of the quake, where power was cut off and hotels damaged.

British tourist Saffron Amis, who was stranded on Gili Trawangan island, said she spent a second night outdoors amid powerful aftershocks.

We slept in a bungalow until another quake hit us at midnight and then we moved to the beach, she said.

At Lomboks airport, dozens of tourists slept on the floor as they waited for flights off the island.

Many hotels closed because of damage, although some allowed travellers to camp in their lobbies.

That was my first experience with the earthquake and it was really terrible, said Lize Reert, a Belgian woman among the several thousand who fled Gili Trawangan.

It was a nightmare.

Associated Press contributed to this report
North Korea released a South Korean citizen detained in July after crossing the border into the North, the South's Unification Ministry said on Tuesday.

The prisoner was a 34-year-old man surnamed Seo who was detained after "illegally" entering North Korea last month, the ministry said.

South Korean officials have pressed for the return of six other South Koreans believed to have been held for years in North Korea, and the Unification Ministry said they believed Seo's release is a positive sign.

In May, North Korea released three American prisoners in a gesture seen as clearing the way for June's summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump.

After the Americans were released, the United Nations human rights investigator on North Korea, Tomas Ojea Quintana, issued a statement calling for the South Koreans to also be freed.

Among them are Christian missionaries Kim Jung-wook, who was arrested in October 2013, and Kim Kook-kie and Choi Chun-kil, who have been held since 2014, the ministry said.

The other three are North Korean defectors who South Koreas National Intelligence Service said last year were captured by the North without specifying where and why.
The Scheduled Caste wing also launched dedicated website, Facebook page and Twitter account to connect with booth-level workers.

Addressing the members, BJP national general secretary (organisation) Ram Lal said that whenever the BJP has come to power, the party worked for the uplift of the Dalit community. (Photo: File | ANI)

New Delhi: The BJP's Scheduled Caste Morcha on Monday asked its members to reach out to the Dalit community to counter the negative campaign of opposition parties, as it launched various social media initiatives to spread awareness about welfare schemes of the central government.

Addressing the members, BJP national general secretary (organisation) Ram Lal said that whenever the BJP has come to power, the party worked for the uplift of the Dalit community.

"National Scheduled Caste Front has conducted satisfactory work and I appreciated their work. The Morcha should reach out to the Dalit community to end the disinformation spread among Dalit societies by other political parties against the BJP government. Spread awareness regarding welfare schemes launched by the Centre and states," Lal said.

The Scheduled Caste wing also launched its dedicated website, Facebook page and Twitter account to connect with booth-level workers all over the country.
A British Airways employee has been dismissed from his job just two weeks after starting for wearing his hair in a bun.

Sid Ouared, 26, from London, accused the airline of sexism after his contract was terminated for breaching uniform policy.

The former Heathrow customer service worker said that one of his bosses even told him that he looked like a girl.

 Former British Airways worker Sid Ouared 'sacked for man bun' says he felt 'bullied'

Ouared told The Daily Mail that he felt the airline was still stuck in the 1970s.

They basically said: Cut it, put it in a turban like a Sikh, or turn it into dreadlocks like a Rastafarian. I am not any of those things and I cant believe that they would make me wear my hair like something I am not, he said.

Thousands of women who work for BA and who worked alongside me had their hair exactly like mine. Yet Im discriminated against for it.

When approached for comment, British Airways told The Independent: We dont comment on employment matters relating to individuals.

British Airways takes a stringent approach to employees appearance. Ponytails are only permitted for men to secure dreadlocks.

Designer stubble is not allowed and orange skin tones are not permitted.

Recommended The best and worst cabin crew uniforms

Both men and women are expected to conceal obvious blemishes and skin conditions with concealer and tattoos must be covered up.

The rules for women are no more forgiving. Female staff members are expected to wear lipstick and blusher as a minimum and are advised to use a face power to set your makeup for the day. The guidance also directs women to complete the eyes with eyeliner and mascara.

Women cabin crew are also expected to wear heels, a directive that seems impractical in instances of turbulence.

When it comes to womens hair, close shaven hairstyles and excessively teased, back-combed styles are not permitted.

Coloured hair must complement natural hair colour and streaks, flecks and shading effects are not acceptable.

The man-bun hairstyle has been popularised by celebrities such as Harry Styles, David Beckham and Leonardo DiCaprio. Although the trend is mistakenly believed to be a recent one started by hipsters, bun-wearing men have existed since Roman times.
Two earthquakes in quick succession in eastern Indonesia have cost hundreds of lives on the island of Lombok and on neighbouring islands. Bali has also sustained damage.

In the first, on 29 July, 16 people were killed and hundreds of houses damaged. The second, on 5 August, was more deadly. More than 250 people are known to have died after a magnitude 6.9 earthquake struck the north of Lombok.

Many prospective visitors have contacted The Independent to ask for advice on the situation in the region, and their options if they decide not to travel. These are the key questions.

Q How seismically active is this part of Indonesia?

Very active. The country is defined by string of volatile volcanoes stretching for thousands of miles, and comprising an arc on the so-called Ring of Fire around the Pacific.

The Foreign Office has long warned: Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes occur regularly, which can present a potential threat of tsunamis. It notes: The capacity of the Indonesian emergency and rescue services to deal with large natural disasters is limited.

The main tourism hub for British visitors is the island of Bali, which is adjacent to Lombok and which has an active volcano in the shape of Mount Agung. Over the past year it has undergone some fairly small-scale eruptions, which led to periodic closures of Bali and Lombok airports. There is still an exclusion zone of 4km from the crater, which is showing signs of activity.

The earthquake in Lombok damaged buildings in Denpasar and Kuta on the island of Bali, and caused some superficial damage at the airport. Bali and Lombok airports are open, with flights operating normally.

Q My daughter is on a gap year and is travelling in the region. What can I tell her to help her keep safe?

The Foreign Office is a good source. It advises against all but essential travel to areas of Lombok north of the main east-west route from Pamenang, which passes north of the capital Mataram and across to Lombok town. This area includes the Gili Islands and the Mount Rinjani National Park.

British travellers who visit the area against the official advice risk their travel insurance becoming invalid. The same applies to people who are unwilling to evacuate the islands.

If your daughter needs consular assistance, she can call the British Consulate in Bali on +62 21 2356 5200. Conversely, if youre in the UK and concerned about your daughters whereabouts and believe she may be in Lombok or on the Gili Islands, call the Foreign Office on 020 7008 1500.

Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Show all 55 1 /55 Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Rescue workers extract a woman, who survived after being trapped in rubble since the earthquake in Lombok, Indonesia Antara Foto/Ahmad Subaid/Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A man inspects the ruins of houses AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A ten-month old baby girl survivor, Refi, is aided by volunteer doctors at an emergency hospital in Tanjung EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A man riding a motorcycle passes by a damaged house at Sira village in northern Lombok AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Rescuers with sniffer dogs search for victims at a mosque damaged by the earthquake AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian search and rescue teams look for victims at a collapsed mosque Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Search and rescue personnel look for victims AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesians carry an elderly woman at a temporary shelter in Pemenang Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A woman prays near her temporary tent near Tanjung hospital Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Search and rescue personnel look for victims AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Rescue teams search for victims in the rubble caused by an earthquake at a Mosque in North Lombok AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Tourists sleep while waiting to depart from the Praya Lombok International Airport on the West Nusa Tenggara AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A doctor and paramedics give medical treatment to a man injured in the earthquake AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Rescue teams search for victims AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Tourists sleep on the floor as they wait to depart from the Praya Lombok International Airport AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian search and rescue personnel work on a collapsed mosque in Pemenang, North Lombok AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island An elderly man rests in a makeshift hospital after surviving a major earthquake in Kayangan on Lombok AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Tourists affected by a strong earthquake line up on a beach as they wait to be evacuated on Gili Trawangan AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian rescuers search for victims under the ruin of a collapsed house after an earthquake struck in North Lombok, Indonesia EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A father accompanies his injured child outside of Tanjung hospital, Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A damaged in Pemenang, North Lombok AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Makeshift tents are erected to be used as a temporary shelter for those affected AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Usable items are salvaged from a home destroyed in an earthquake in North Lombok AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island According to media reports, a 7.0 magnitude quake hit Indonesia's island of Lombok on 5 August, killing at least 91 people AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Hospital patients are moved to an emergency tent outside of a hospital building in Denpasar, Bali EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Map locating the earthquake in Lombok Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian soldiers carry the body of an earthquake victim Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Evacuation from Gili Trawangan in Indonesia James Kelsall/PA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Workers cleanup parts of a shopping mall building which collapsed after an earthquake, in Denpasar, Bali EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Recovered items sit next to destroyed buildings in Pemenang in northern Lombok AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Hundreds of people attempting to leave Gili Trawangan AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian local residents stay outside of their collapsed houses EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Rescue personnel stands next to a motorcycle that fell down at a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Hospital staff treat patients outside a hospital after a major earthquake rocked Indonesia's Lombok island, in Mataram AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island People affected by the earthquake rest at a temporary shelter in Lombok AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A man removes debris outside a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island People react following an earthquake in Ampenan district, Mataram, Lombok Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A hospital patient is moved outside of the hospital building in Denpasar, Bali EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A policeman gestures as he walks next to damaged bikes and debris at a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island People next to an ambulance near the Golden Palace Hotel after an earthquake hit Lombok Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Residents stand next to bikes and debris at a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesian soldiers tend to a woman injured in the earthquake at a makeshift hospital in Lombok AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Tourists wait outside a hotel in Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island People clean up debris following a strong earthquake on nearby Lombok island, in Denpasar Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island An ambulance near Golden Palace Hotel after an earthquake hit Lombok Island Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Indonesians stand on road outside a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Security and mall personnel walk over debris AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Residents wait as they evacuate to higher ground AP Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island An ambulance rushes out of the hospital AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Hospital patients and relatives wait outside in Mataram AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Hospital patients and relatives stand outside after being evacuated in Mataram AFP/Getty Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A hospital patient is moved outside EPA Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island Residents evacuate by motorcycle Reuters Powerful earthquake rocks Indonesia's Lombok island A hospital patient is moved outside EPA

Q We have spent 6,000 on our last big holiday for two or three years, with our young children, and are booked to Bali on Sunday. Given the earthquake action over the last days and weeks, what do you think we should do?

In your position, I would certainly plan to go ahead as normal  and happily take my family. The civil defence preparedness in Bali is reasonably good, and I would be confident in the authorities taking appropriate action if there is a threat. But given the risk of aftershocks in the coming days and weeks, I urge anyone heading for an earthquake-prone part of the world to read up on the risks and how to minimise them.

The research I have done indicates these are good steps to take:

1. Stay where you are until the shaking stops.

2. Drop down onto your hands and knees so the earthquake doesnt knock you down.

Recommended Nearly 700 trekkers being rescued from volcano on Indonesian island

3. Cover your head and neck with your arms to protect yourself from falling debris.

4. If you are in danger from falling objects, and you can move safely, crawl for additional cover under a sturdy desk or table.

5. If there is low furniture or an interior wall or corner nearby, and the path is clear, these may also provide some additional cover.

6. Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as light fixtures or furniture.

7. Hold on to any sturdy covering so you can move with it until the shaking stops.

8. Do not try to run.

9. If you are outside, move away from buildings, trees, lamp posts and power lines  anything that could harm you if it falls (including vases, windows, tiles, etc on buildings). Be aware that landslides can follow earthquakes, and that ruptured pipes can leak gas or water.

Q My husband and I are traveling to Sanur in Bali in a weeks time. Is it safe to go?

Probably. I realise that is not a particularly helpful response, but it is genuinely the best I can offer. Any visitor to Bali at any time is accepting a small risk that seismic activity will affect their trip. Evidently the earth beneath this part of Indonesia has been more restless than usual in the past year. You can reduce the risks by checking potential exit routes from your accommodation.

The Foreign Office rather passes the buck for responsibility about deciding whether or not to travel, saying: Keep your travel plans under close review and seek the advice of your transport and accommodation providers before travelling, and ensure that you have contingency plans and travel insurance in place.

Q Will my travel insurance allow me to cancel or come home early?

A spokesperson for the Association of British Insurers told The Independent: Anyone booked to go to areas affected should speak to their tour operator, air carrier or travel agent for advice and assistance.

If people make alternative travel plans, then they can usually transfer their travel insurance to cover the new arrangements.

Anyone already in the area and who wants to return home, should in the first instance speak to their tour operator or air carrier.

Check your travel insurance policy, because some (but not all) may cover non-recoverable cancellation costs where the government advises against travel.

 Lombok earthquake: Man pulled alive from rubble of mosque on Indonesian island

Q My daughter and son-in-law are due to fly out to Bali, Lombok and the Gili Islands on their honeymoon. Is there anything that can be done to legally cancel this without them losing the entire cost?

In these circumstances, holiday companies are generally happy to discuss alternatives. For example, Kuoni says: Were doing everything we can to support customers with alternative travel plans. For departures up until the end of August we are offering free cancellations or amendments and will continue to monitor the situation closely.

"Customers travelling to Gili and Lombok to 31 August are being offered cancellation or amendments free of charge. If they do not want a Bali only holiday we will aim to find a suitable alternative destination.

"Bookings from September onwards will be reviewed early next week unless further information is forthcoming in the meantime."

Some UK travel firms may insist that normal terms and conditions apply, with the only exception being the Foreign Office warning about northern Lombok and the Gili Islands. If this area comprises a significant part of their trip, then it should be possible to argue that the holiday cannot be delivered as promised. In any event, it may be possible to switch to alternative Indonesian destinations.

 Deadly magnitude-7 earthquake rocks Indonesian island of Lombok, near Bali

Q We are organising our own DIY trip to Indonesia. We were due to visit northern Lombok and the Gili Islands. Are we best to cancel our holiday completely? Im really worried about the aftermath.

The infrastructure in Lombok and the Gili Islands has been damaged, and even when the Foreign Office advice is eased it may not be a great time to visit the area.

Some airlines are being flexible. For example, Singapore Airlines says passengers with tickets to Lombok up to 10 August 2018 can request a refund of their tickets. But the general rule is that: if you have booked a flight to Bali, and the airline can safely get you there, then the fact that you no longer want to go is not grounds for cancellation without penalty.

The same goes for any properties you have booked on a non-refundable basis: if they are open for business, and can provide what you booked, a disinclination to travel is not their problem. The best you can hope for is likely to be the opportunity to postpone without penalty. But whenever you go, Bali, Lombok and the Gili Islands will still be part of the Ring of Fire.
They say a womans work is never done. If certain Brexiteers have their way, that might be truer than ever. According to a leaked Department of Health dossier, a no-deal Brexit would mean a disastrous shortfall in care staff, which would force women out of the office and into unpaid social care roles, looking after elderly parents.

Many were infuriated by headlines such as Women will have to give up work after Brexit, and are asking why men dont have the same duty of care. Their anger, while valid, misses the point. The headlines were clumsily worded, certainly; sexist, arguably. But were they true? Absolutely.

There are an estimated 6.5 million people in the UK caring for others, 40 per cent of whom are informally looking after an elderly or sick relative. The majority of those carers are women because, with women already shouldering the burden of childcare and enduring the pain of the gender pay gap, its often simply more economically sensible for a woman to cut her hours in the workplace further when care responsibilities increase.

Statistically mothers are more likely to work part-time or flexibly than fathers, leaving them more time to take on the huge emotional toll of looking after an aged parent. One huge imbalance begets another, blighting many middle-aged women with a double whammy of responsibility.

 What does a no-deal Brexit mean?

Add to that the fact there are twice as many elderly women than men receiving care, of whom many might prefer being washed and intimately cared for by another woman, and you can see how some men might feel let off the hook.

So the Department of Healths forebodings are perfectly valid. What its analysis of post-Brexit Britains care needs lacked, was a solution.

Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in the US, every employee is entitled to 12 weeks unpaid annual leave to look after an ageing parent. A temporary solution, perhaps, but preferable to the situation in the UK, where leave only applies in emergency situations. It does not, for example, cover driving your parent to a hospital appointment or going to their house to make sure theyre eating.

British businesses planning for a world beyond Brexit desperately need systems in place to support people taking leave, working from home or going part-time to care for a parent. The onus is also on the employer to actively encourage men to take on the work, assuaging any fears about loss of salary or promotion prospects as a result. In fact, given the elderly are a financial burden for a chronically under-resourced health system, it makes economic sense for the government to offer some sort of financial incentive  particularly to under-represented male carers  for gran-ternity leave.

Care work must also become a more in demand profession to tackle the shortfall of staff. If nursing and care work is consistently attracting more female applicants than male, then education and recruitment must address that, the same way STEM-based industries are doing for women. Training schemes could directly pitch to young men, who may not have considered care it as a profession.

People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Show all 30 1 /30 People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Rex People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A young protestor shouts as she takes part in the People's Vote demonstration against Brexit Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Reuters People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A protester's pro-EU t-shirt EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Gina Miller and Caroline Lucas EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Tens of thousands of people march through London EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Demonstrators at the People's Vote March Getty People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal 'Two months too young to decide on my future' REUTERS People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A young girl joins in the march PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal An EU flag is draped across the statue of Winston Chruchill in Parliament Square REUTERS People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Vince Cable MP, Pro-EU campaigner Gina Miller, Tony Robinson and Caroline Lucas MP join with crowds PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Crowds gather on Pall Mall PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A man resembling Britain's Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, joins EU supporters Reuters People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Reuters People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal People gather in Trafalgar Square REUTERS People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Pro-EU campaigner Gina Miller and Tony Robinson PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EU supporters, calling on the government to give Britons a vote on the final Brexit deal, participate in the 'People's Vote' march REUTERS

Or why not tackle two social ills with one strategy? In the Netherlands, a nursing home has been letting impoverished students live in for free in return for spending 30 hours per month with the residents. Initiatives like this help combat the loneliness that contributes to ill health and early death. Importantly, they also demystify the true nature of caring work, and help share responsibility between the generations as well as between genders.

The prospect of a no-deal Brexit is looming large. Were all likely to take a financial hit, even in the unlikely event of a soft Brexit. Economic history tells us that when things are bad, they are inevitably worse for women, especially women of colour and from the working class  statistically the communities which already take on a disproportionate amount of the nations caring work.

Now more than ever we need to address the gender imbalance in formal and informal care. If Brexit is to have one positive effect, it ought to force men to step up in ways they havent even imagined yet.
It has been a terrible couple of weeks for the advocates of a hard Brexit. Having demanded for over a year that the government get serious about plans for leaving Europe with no deal in place, they must have been horrified when ministers started to spell out the consequences: food shortages, petrol queues, vital drugs in short supply, flights grounded and the army taking control.

Many hard Brexiteers reacted by denouncing the cabinet as sellouts and crypto-Remainers, but the shrewder of the ultras have realised that now is not the time. Like scholars of Chairman Maos theses on guerrilla warfare they have decided that when their enemy  in this case a prime minister desperate to avoid crashing out with no deal  attacks, they must retreat.

In fact, they have taken more than that from the Great Helmsman: the guerrillas were told they had to move amongst the people like anonymous fish swimming in the ocean, and that is just what Michael Gove and his allies now plan to do in government. They have become the strongest proponents of Theresa Mays latest negotiating ploy: advocating a blind Brexit that looks superficially like our current EU membership on the date of exit.

Blind Brexit works for May because it delivers something  anything  other than no deal and means she can at least claim to have negotiated an orderly exit from the EU.

For the country, though, it is anything but a good deal. It would mean surrendering the few negotiating cards we have left and instead relying on a piece of paper  a warmly worded political declaration between the UK government and EU27  to secure the future. Historical precedent tells us just how poor a trade that would be.

A blind Brexit would mean we have settled almost nothing at the time of Brexit day next March. We would in effect be marching blindfold off the gangplank having convinced ourselves we will be in a better position to cut a deal while bobbing along in the ocean than remaining on deck.

Of course, we would be plunging not into the warm waters of the Caribbean but the political limbo of a transition period in which we would be required to accept all new and existing EU rules and regulations without having any say on their formulation or even having a judge on the court that enforces them.

To mangle the metaphor, this would put us on a two-year gangplank. That is not long enough for businesses to make vital decision and for ordinary people the uncertainty will cloud the future  making a move of house, a car purchase or even a family wedding feel like a major gamble.

The hard Brexiteers know that once the two years are up the future of Britain is up for grabs. Once Britain crosses the exit line on the 29 March there is no way back. Gove and his allies known that, once the transition period is over, they would have free rein to rip up workers rights, environmental regulations and safety standards, no doubt all in the name of pursuing trade deals. Instead of taking back control, we would cede it to the Trump administration and others eager to capitalise on our weakness. We know from the US what that would mean in terms of inequality and public health.

The hard Brexiteers know that a blind Brexit is no deal delayed, not averted. The logic of Brexit is clear: the only way to survive it is to indulge in a bonfire of regulation and to become the sort of offshore service centre that makes Hong Kong look tame. That, of course, is why so many on the Conservative right are such enthusiasts.

People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Show all 30 1 /30 People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Rex People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A young protestor shouts as she takes part in the People's Vote demonstration against Brexit Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Reuters People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A protester's pro-EU t-shirt EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Gina Miller and Caroline Lucas EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Tens of thousands of people march through London EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EPA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Demonstrators at the People's Vote March Getty People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal 'Two months too young to decide on my future' REUTERS People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A young girl joins in the march PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal An EU flag is draped across the statue of Winston Chruchill in Parliament Square REUTERS People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal AFP/Getty Images People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Vince Cable MP, Pro-EU campaigner Gina Miller, Tony Robinson and Caroline Lucas MP join with crowds PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Crowds gather on Pall Mall PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal A man resembling Britain's Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, joins EU supporters Reuters People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Reuters People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal People gather in Trafalgar Square REUTERS People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal Pro-EU campaigner Gina Miller and Tony Robinson PA People's Vote march  demanding vote on final Brexit deal EU supporters, calling on the government to give Britons a vote on the final Brexit deal, participate in the 'People's Vote' march REUTERS

We are now at a moment of decision. In only a few weeks parliament will return and MPs will face the biggest choice about our countrys future since the war. The blind Brexit option might look superficially attractive  after all it gets us to the transition period and the least immediate change. But it is a poison pill.

The dilemma for MPs is that there is no majority in parliament for an alternative and they may fear doing nothing takes us straight to no deal.

The only democratic way ahead is a peoples vote. In the trade unions it is standard practice for our members instruct us to negotiate a deal. We then return with the best deal we can get and put that to a vote  to accept the deal or stay with the status quo.

 Jacob Rees-Mogg suggests a second Brexit referendum would be acceptable in clip from 2011

The British people deserve the same respect. By a narrow majority they instructed the government to negotiate a deal but, as polls increasingly show, they are increasingly unimpressed with the results  more than 70 per cent of people now expect Theresa May to get the UK a bad deal.

Its why we are so pleased The Independent has taken the lead as the first newspaper to call for the people to take back control with its Final Say campaign. Now is the time for all of the left to unite behind the demand that the people are in the driving seat.

If people are satisfied with the results they can vote for the deal, accepting any changes to jobs, public services or safety standards as their choice. If, however, people dont believe that what theyre offered matches what we currently have, or what was promised in 2016, they deserve the chance to reject the deal and think again about our relationship with the EU.

Brexit is not a game. Done badly it could cripple our economy for decades and harm our ability to deal with the real challenges we currently face, including inequality, rising child poverty, the lack of affordable housing and  as this summer has shown so clearly  the rising threat of climate change. Only a Brexit deal that strengthened our economy and our ability to tackle challenges at home and abroad, and which committed future governments to maintaining our current rights and protections, should be actioned  and the public deserve the right to say whether in their opinion the government have got such a deal or something far worse.

Billy Hayes is the former general secretary of the Communication Workers Union (CWU)

Mike Buckley is director of Labour for a Peoples Vote
A 1.2 million euro Government investment is expected to kick start a bid to plant a million trees as part of the re-greening of one of Africas most parched regions.

The Republic has been invited by the United Nations to take a leadership role in helping deliver the Great Green Wall and combat desertification in a massive swathe of land south of the Sahara known as the Sahel.

The Laudato Tree Project, run by the Society of African Missions (SMA), hopes to create a lasting legacy from the Popes visit to Ireland later this month.

Africas Great Green Wall aims to:

Restore 100 million hectares of land

Provide food security for 20 million people

Create 350,000 jobs and

Sequester 250 million tons of carbon by 2030. #GLFNairobi2018 https://t.co/kurKZCusiC  UN Environment Programme (@UNEP) August 6, 2018

Don Mullan, a spokesman for the Society of African Missions (SMA), said: Minister Naughten has responded to the invitation and will give details at the launch of a major Irish Government commitment of EUR 1,200,000 to this epic African initiative.

Mr Mullan said environment minister Denis Naughton was expected to visit Roscommon for the announcement of the official funding, which the Society hopes will be followed by private donations.

Africas green wall, when completed, will span 13 countries. It will measure 8,000km long (4,970 miles) and 15km wide (nine miles).

The UNs proposal would also involve schools, parishes and community groups in planting trees in Ireland, increasing biodiversity and contributing to atmospheric improvement.

The SMA Laudato Tree Project inaugurated by the President of Ireland https://t.co/U2BOinbgEQ pic.twitter.com/Z3xj8rqxDE  SMAIreland (@SMAIreland) April 8, 2018

The project takes its name from a 2015 papal encyclical by Pope Francis, Laudato Si, on caring for the environment, and is intended to be a visible expression of the encyclicals intervention.

The Pontiff is visiting Ireland this summer as part of the World Meeting of Families in Dublin.

Mr Mullan said: We are asking for a donation of 60 euros [the equivalent of five euros per month], but will be happy to accept less or more, based on what people can afford.

Working in association with the SMA, the Tree Council of Ireland and the UNCCD, the project will transform donations into the planting of six trees in total: one tree in Ireland and five trees along the Great Green Wall.

This also includes the after care of the trees and the training of Great Green Wall guardian communities who will plant and take care of the trees for future generations.

Each donation will be used to plant a tree in a woodland in Ireland and to plant five trees on Africas Great Green Wall, running through northern Ghana and Burkina Faso.

Some will be invested in Ireland, promoting climate justice, the planting of trees (including 10 years aftercare), and increasing Irelands biodiversity.

Irelands tree coverage is currently the lowest in Europe at 11%. The average tree coverage throughout the European Union is 37%

Another part of the donation will go towards restoring degraded lands along the Sahel, training Great Green Wall communities, increasing food security, creating green jobs and reducing the need for migration or the dangers of radicalisation, Mr Mullan added.
As Brexit looms large, the Food and Drink Supply Chain Logistics, Strategies for Success report found that increased lead times, especially when related to short shelf life food and drink products, in conjunction with a complex supply chain, is a major concern for the industry.

Disruption to supply chains is one of the biggest risks facing the Irish food and drink industry, according to a new report from Bord Bia.

As Brexit looms large, the 'Food and Drink Supply Chain Logistics, Strategies for Success' report found that increased lead times, especially when related to short shelf life food and drink products, in conjunction with a complex supply chain, is a major concern for the industry.

A significant risk which has been identified is the potential for disruption to the frictionless movement of Irish exports through the UK to other markets. These product flows could be subject to future tariffs or customs delays.

Currently food and drink products can move freely within the EU without customs checks, and there are no limits to quantities of import or exports, or any other trade restrictions.

The requirements for documentation to accompany shipments within the EU are also minimal, according to Bord Bia.

But it is likely these factors will change for trade between Ireland and the UK once the UK leaves the EU next March.

In order to reduce the impact of this, new supply chains to service existing markets need to be explored, the report found.

"There are significant challenges ahead for Irish companies in the food and drink sector, many of whom rely heavily on the UK land bridge to access other EU markets," Shane Hamill, overseas trade manager at Bord Bia, said. "It is essential that companies assess or audit the Brexit readiness of their supply chain partners, their market access routes and their channels for accessing raw materials."

The report follows the release of Bord Bia's Brexit Barometer in June, which found that almost nine in 10 respondents in the food and drink sector said that their commercial model is "moderately or highly dependent" on low supply chain costs.

Meanwhile two-thirds of those surveyed by the State Agency said their commercial models are sensitive to increases in lead times.

The latest report from Bord Bia aims to assist food and drink manufacturers to identify operations partners, establish more efficient distribution channels and identify possible strategies for reducing supply chain costs.

"Many companies will have to consider direct routes to the EU and potentially holding stock closer to the European markets if this is cost effective," Mr Hamill said.

"It is imperative that all companies have a strategy for reducing their cost base, reviewing product and market profitability, and also have contingency plans in place for a range of complex Brexit scenarios."
A new post-Brexit shipping route will see Ireland connected to Europe via the Netherlands and Belgium under EU contingency plans.

The European Commission has adopted a proposal which will see Dublin and Cork ports connected with Zeebrugge and Antwerp in Belgium and Rotterdam in the Netherlands - but does not include French ports.

The realignment of the EU's strategic transport corridor, the North Sea-Mediterranean route, is part of Europe's 'Brexit preparedness' measures.

The route has been redrawn as part of efforts to allow Irish trade a means of circumventing UK customs checks post-Brexit and to find alternatives to the land-bridge over Britain.

Fine Gael MEP Brian Hayes said he suspects the proposal will be radically altered following further deliberation.

"If we're trying to get product to market, there has to be an equality between the French side and the Belgian/Dutch side in terms of port access because you could potentially damage some Irish exports - those exports using the French route into southern Spain - we have to mindful of that," he said.

Aidan Flynn of the Freight Transport Association welcomed the adoption of the proposal. "From our prospective, any strategic thinking towards future solutions and ease of accessibility would be very welcome," he said.

Ireland's biggest EU market is to the west of the continent and connectivity is thus very important, he said, adding that plans need to be put in place to combat the reliance on the UK's land-bridge in the event of a no-deal or hard Brexit.

A spokesman for the European Commission said it "based its choice of ports on existing transport flows" following an analysis.

"According to this, there are regular services from Dublin and Cork to Rotterdam and Antwerp. Moreover, there are regular services between Dublin and Zeebrugge. There are no such regular service to France's core ports, Calais and Dunkirk," he said.

A main direct link to France could also be established post-Brexit. A public consultation on the proposal will continue until September 26.
Ireland would be the worst-affected country in Europe in the event of a no-deal Brexit with fears for the economy and potential job losses.

And while all sides in the Brexit talks say they want to avoid a hard border in Ireland, it remains to be seen how this will be done.

How would a no-deal Brexit impact on Ireland?

The effect of the UK crashing out of the European Union without a deal could be devastating to the Irish economy. In recent weeks the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned of 50,000 job losses and a 4pc drop in economic output. Ireland would be the worst affected country in Europe with the exception of Britain itself.

Finance minister Paschal Donohoe has previously said there is a potential for 40,000 job losses under a no-deal Brexit. He told the Dail: "Sectors with strong export ties to the UK such as agri-food, manufacturing, and tourism, would be especially exposed, in particular at the regional level."

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What about the border?

All sides in the Brexit negotiations have said that they want to avoid a hard border in Ireland to protect the peace process and ensure frictionless trade on the island.

But the question remains as to how this will be done, particularly in the event that there's no deal. The Irish government claimed in December that it got a "cast-iron" commitment from the UK in December for a 'backstop' that would avoid border posts even if an overall deal between the UK and EU doesn't materialise.

The backstop would involve regulatory alignment on both sides of the Irish border to allow for smooth trade on the island. This commitment has looked shaky and will be the focus of much of the Brexit negotiations in the coming weeks. Theresa May last month repeated the British government's opposition to a 'backstop' that would effectively see a trade border along the Irish Sea under a no-deal Brexit.

In a speech in Belfast she reiterated her goal of avoiding a hard border on the island of Ireland by reaching an overall Brexit deal with the EU. The EU's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier last week adopted a conciliatory tone towards Britain when he signalled a willingness to be flexible in talks around the Irish border. However, he also warned the UK that a backstop solution is necessary for a withdrawal agreement. EU sources insisted that the backstop has to prevent a hard border.

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What is the threat to the agri-food sector here?

Much of Ireland's agricultural produce - particularly dairy and beef - gets exported to Britain.

An EU report last year predicted that a worst-case scenario Brexit would cost the agri-food sector a staggering 5.5bn in lost exports.

The study by the European Parliament's Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development said the expected impact on Ireland is "particularly concerning" with the Irish agri-food sector "highly dependent on trade with the UK".

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What contingency plans are the Irish government putting in place for Brexit?

The European Commission has warned member States to prepare for the possibility of a hard Brexit. A document circulated to governments last month outlines how the EU hopes to reach a deal with the UK but also recognises that talks can fail. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced details of the government's contingency planning after a special Cabinet meeting in Kerry. He said: "The key decisions are particularly focused on areas where the Government has direct responsibility and on measures that need to be taken on an East-West basis, such as customs and veterinary controls at ports and airports."

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He said the government also reiterated that it "would not countenance a return of a border on the island under any circumstances, including in the event of a hard Brexit . A government statement said that, to date, more than 450m has been allocated in business supports for Brexit. Among the announcements were plans for around 1,000 new customs and veterinary inspectors by 2021. There is to be upgraded infrastructure at Dublin and Rosslare ports that will require "significant investment".

The Irish Independent today reports that a new post-Brexit shipping route will see Ireland connected to Europe via the Netherlands and Belgium under EU contingency plans. The realignment of the EU's strategic transport corridor is part of an effort to allow Irish trade a means of circumventing UK customs checks post-Brexit and to find alternatives to the land-bridge over Britain.

But what about Britain? What will happen if Britain and the EU fail to get a deal?

Britain is a member of the World Trade Organization so tariffs and other terms governing its trade with the EU would be set under WTO rules.

EU tariffs are quite low, averaging about 5 percent, but they are higher for some important British exports including cars which would face a 10 percent tariff. Exporters could face other barriers including complying with EU standards for goods such as food and electrical products. British exports might get stuck at the EU border.

Many British services firms, especially in the giant financial industry, would probably face more restrictions on doing business in the bloc than under May's preferred deal. Under WTO rules Britain and the EU could not offer each other low tariffs, quick border checks, or close cooperation on services, unless they offered these to all WTO member states.

What's the downside of a no-deal Brexit for Britain?

Most economists say the higher the barriers are to trade with the EU, the bigger the hit for Britain.

The National Institute for Economic and Social Research says a no-deal Brexit would cost each person in Britain 800 pounds ($1,030) a year more than the effect of a "soft Brexit" under which Britain had ties to the EU similar to Norway's. May's plan would cost 500 pounds per person a year more than a soft Brexit. The impact on Britain's economy could be bigger still if business investment falls, aggravating slow productivity growth, or a fall in migration causes labour shortages.

What's the upside?

Brexit supporters argue that WTO rules would help Britain's economy by making it easier for London to strike its own trade deals with faster-growing countries and regions beyond Europe. However, this would take years and Britain on its own might struggle to secure favourable terms from the likes of the United States and China.

Ruth Lea, a pro-Brexit economist, said the concerns about border delays were overblown, because countries outside the EU typically declare their exports online to speed their passage. Brexit backers also say Britain could save its estimated EU divorce bill of around 39 billion pounds and spend this on public services instead.

Will a no-deal Brexit mean chaos in Britain?

With less than eight months until Britain leaves the EU, time is short to negotiate an agreement or prepare both sides for the possibility of no deal Any disorderly Brexit risks delays at borders as officials struggle with a sudden introduction of new customs rules. Britain's government is drawing up plans to stockpile medicines and blood products before a possible no-deal Brexit.

In the worst-case scenario, Britain would fall out of EU arrangements such as the U.S.-EU aviation Open Skies agreement, possibly causing transport chaos. Financial derivatives trading would face legal uncertainty. EU citizens in Britain and British citizens in the EU would risk losing residency and other rights. Given the potential for disruption, the EU might offer to extend the Brexit negotiation period if there were some prospect of a deal, Malcolm Barr, a JP Morgan economist, said. "The EU knows that a no-deal Brexit would hurt all involved and would be an enormously complex problem to manage," he said.
A Gandhi family loyalist Dhawan was accommodated to the Rajya Sabha by the Congress.

New Delhi: A man for all seasons, veteran leader of the Congress R.K. Dhawan passed away on Monday evening. The stenographer to the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi rose to be one of the most powerful men in her durbar. As a personal assistant to the Prime Minister he attained unparalleled power and influence during the period of the Emergency. Widely known as the door keeper of Mrs Gandhi, Dhawan wielded the influence that many seniors in the Congress strived for.

Controversy courted Dhawan due to his unbridled access to the Prime Minister during the days of Emergency. He was pivotal to all the decisions taken at that time. Many senior leaders recount how it was important to be in the good books of Dhawan. His critics say that he will be remembered for his extra-constitutional authority and proximity to several industrial groups. Others point out that many secrets of Indian politics have gone with him.

Dhawan was also a witness in the Indira Gandhi assassination case. Interestingly, the Thakkar Commission which had been formed to inquire in the lapses of security leading to the assassination of Mrs Gandhi had made serious remarks against Dhawan  a claim that Dhawan denied strongly. In the end, nothing was attributed to Dhawan.

A Gandhi family loyalist Dhawan was accommodated to the Rajya Sabha by the Congress. He also earned a slot in the highest decision-making body of the Congress  the Congress Working Committee.

The Congress on Monday expressed sadness over the passing away of Dhawan whom it described as a valued member of the party.
Farmer Ash Whitney stands atop a tree as he cuts off branches to feed his cattle in a drought-effected paddock on his property located west of the town of Gunnedah in New South Wales, Australia, June 3, 2018. "I have been here all my life, and this drought is feeling like it will be around a while," said Whitney. REUTERS/David Gray.

Black Angus bulls are pictured at Tasmania's largest cattle feedlot located at Powranna on the outskirts of Launceston. (REUTERS/David Gray)

Australian meat industry leaders are heavily lobbying their government to put pressure on Britain to accept products currently banned under EU law after Brexit.

Among the meat products suggested for export to the UK are hormone-treated beef and burnt goat heads.

Ministers from both countries met last week to discuss the future of their trading relationship, amid concerns that the Australian government could force the UK to lower food standards.

Trade minister Liam Fox has long mooted Australia as a key trading partner for the UK when it ceases to be part of the EU.

The Department for International Trade has stated it will not lower food, animal welfare or environmental standards as part of any free trade agreement.

Maintaining them is the right thing to do for our consumers and maintains the UKs world-renowned reputation for high-quality products, a spokesperson told The Independent.

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But Kierra Box, Brexit campaign lead at Friends of the Earth (FoE), said the government is "saying one thing but doing something completely different.

The government can continue to claim they are protecting our environment and health but in reality these promises are flimsy and unconvincing.

An investigation by FoE has revealed the extent of lobbying by the Australian meat and livestock industry as Brexit draws closer.

Foremost among their demands has been the insistence that technical barriers to trade are removed once the UKs relationship with the EU ends.

However, farmers and environmentalists are concerned about the impact the removal of such barriers could have both on British farms and the quality of food.

Brexit provides an unprecedented opportunity for the Australian red meat industry to enhance its trading relationship with the UK, Andrew McCallum from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) wrote in a letter to Australian Parliament in 2017.

A more liberalised UK import regime than is currently in place, would deliver substantial advantages not only to the Australian red meat industry but to UK importers, wholesalers, distributors, food service and retail operators as well as consumers.

David Larkin, the general manager of production at Thomas Foods International, explained in an inquiry last October that the UK once accounted for 80pc of Australian red meat exports before joining the EU.

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Though still considered important, the UK now makes up only 1.5pc of exports by volume.

The Australian meat industry is keen to re-establish itself as a major exporter of meat to the UK, but it is currently restricted by EU rules and quotas that it feels are unfair.

The [UK] market has continued to establish itself as a high-value market and is one that is protected by a number of barriers to trade, explained Mr Larkin.

Those barriers to trade are subsidies, tariffs and quota, and technical trade barriers in the form of HGP [hormonal growth promotant] bans and processing directives in terms of equivalence in processing sites.

Growth hormones that have been banned in the EU since 1981 due to health concerns are used on about 40 percent of Australian cattle and have been in employed for more than three decades.

During a hearing of the Australian trade sub-committee at the end of 2017, Jason Strong, chair of the EU and UK Red Meat Industry Taskforce, said increased trade quotas with the UK would be an opportunity to export not only more high quality products but also those of the lowest quality.

According to agricultural news service Farm Online, Mr Strong told the committee Australia could send low value products including burnt goat heads.

The industry is confident that Brexit will open new opportunities for its meat industry, and the Australian parliament concluded in October that since Brexit, UK standards and conformance bodies have expressed greater intent to cooperate further with Australias standards and conformance infrastructure.

In Britain, there is concern about what this could mean.

Our standards adopted through the EU are possibly some of the highest standards in the world, Jon Andrews, a farmer from south Devon and England chair of the Nature Friendly Farming Network, told The Independent.

He highlighted worries about lower animal welfare and environmental standards in nations like Australia, as well as the impact on British farmers.

Sheep and beef imports of that nature risk depressing the UK beef price, beyond which our producers really couldnt remain in business if it happen on a larger scale  its not something Id like to see Liam Fox trading away, he said.

Ms Box said: Facing future deals that will force us to accept dodgy meat we would never have previously considered isnt what people voted for.

We used to be rightly proud of our food safety and environmental standards. Those safeguards didnt just magically exist, they were deliberately put in place for good reason and were vigorously controlled.

If the UK doesnt set out our stall for the future of food right now, it wont just be Australia pushing their reject meat onto us.
Michael Neill, partner at Top 100 sponsor A&L Goodbody, Chris Kirke, president of Moy Park and Ulster Business editor John Mulgrew at the announcement. Photo: Elaine Hill Photography

Northern Ireland's biggest companies have seen their profits increase by almost 80pc in 12 months.

This is according to the 2018 'Top 100 Companies' from industry magazine 'Ulster Business'.

Leading the way was Armagh-based poultry producer Moy Park, which reported a turnover of 1.4bn (1.57bn) over 12 months.

This is the seventh year in a row that the North's largest private sector business has topped the list.

Moy Park processes over 280 millions birds a year, in addition to producing around 200,000 tons of prepared foods annually.

It saw its profits increase to 59.7m (66.9m) last year from 35.7m the previous year.

Chris Kirke, president of Moy Park, said that it was the "great people" within the business that have made it the successful company it is today.

"It is our talented team and our focus on enhancing operations across our facilities, that will ensure we can continue to innovate, thrive and grow," said Mr Kirke.

Overall, turnover among the Ulster Business Top 100 - now in its 30th year - increased by around 9pc, rising to 23.85bn from 21.88bn, when comparing company accounts year-on-year.

Pre-tax profits for the 100 companies making the list grew by 79pc, rising to 924.9m from 517.5m the previous year.

One of the biggest jumps on the list was from Graham Construction.

During the 12-month period the company saw its revenue soar by more than 200m to 759m.

"This year's Top 100 Companies list is another clear example of the strength of Northern Ireland's business landscape, right across the sectors," John Mulgrew, Ulster Business editor, said.

"The majority of company results have taken place during the ongoing stasis, with a lack of a devolved government in Northern Ireland, which makes the huge surges in profit, and turnover, even more impressive."

There were more than a dozen new entrants to this year's list, from right across the business spectrum, including Belfast technology firm Kainos, and Mac Interiors, which is based in Newry.

The Ulster Business Top 100 edition was welcomed by Michael Neill, head of A&L Goodbody in Belfast, which sponsored the list.

"We have been inspired by their drive, determination and resilience, and the example they set to Northern Ireland plc," Mr Neill said. "We very much look forward to seeing their businesses continue to thrive over the next 12 months."
The process is due to be completed in 2023, with the majority of rural premises to be connected by 2021

Enet is to forge ahead with a plan to build out a State-subsidised rural broadband network under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) without a new partner to replace the energy utility company SSE.

The Irish Independent understands that the consortium has hired a number of senior international telecoms experts to oversee the network rollout to 542,000 rural homes and businesses, effectively replacing SSE's role in the huge network build.

These include senior executives from Rogers, Canada's largest telecoms company.

SSE, a UK utilities giant that joined forces with Enet last year, was to be Enet's main partner in building out the network under Enet's NBP bid, which is being finalised in the coming weeks. However, SSE parted ways with Enet in recent months, announcing its exit in the last two weeks.

The Enet-SSE split also resulted in the cancellation of a plan between the two companies to build 115,000 fibre broadband connections to nine regional towns in the West of Ireland.

Eir, which had been a potential replacement for SSE, was not approached about taking up SSE's role in the State-backed bid.

Last week, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said that the NBP process was still expected to proceed on schedule, despite the departure of SSE from the bidding process.

With no further hiccups, this would mean shovels in the next six months if Enet's final bid is accepted by the Department of Communications.

The Government has not yet indicated how much it expects the NBP rollout to cost, although industry analysts expect it to be in the region of 1bn to 1.5bn.

If successful in its bid, Enet will get a 25-year contract to build and run the wholesale rural fibre broadband network, with ownership of the utility reverting to it at the end of the 25 year period.

If it wants to proceed with its current time frame, the Government has little choice but to accept Enet's bid, with other major contenders for the contract having withdrawn from the process in the last 12 months.

The process is due to be completed in 2023, with the majority of rural premises to be connected by 2021.
The skyscrapers of Moscow City business district, center, stand beyond the illuminated towers of Red Square and the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia. Photo: Andrey Rudakov/Bloomberg

A little-noticed provision in the draft law adding sanctions on Russia could hit some of the countrys largest banks, potentially doing more damage than a clause calling for a ban on purchases of sovereign debt that has worried investors, according to Barclays.

The most drastic version of the sanctions on transactions with Russian banks, in which all of the state banks are sanctioned, would have significant ramifications for the entire Russian economy, which could be even more painful than sovereign debt measures, said Liza Ermolenko, an economist at Barclays Capital in London.

One provision calls for the US to prohibit all transactions in all property and interests in property of one or more of the Russian financial institutions. It lists some of the largest lenders: Sberbank, VTB Bank, Gazprombank, Promsvyazbank, Rosselkhozbank and Vnesheconombank.

The bill was introduced in the US Senate last week by a bipartisan group of legislators, aiming to impose crushing sanctions and other measures against Putins Russia until he ceases and desists meddling in the US electoral process, said co-sponsor Senator Lindsey Graham. With US President Donald Trump calling for closer ties with Russia, the outlook for passage of the bill remains uncertain. (Bloomberg)
During the month the airline carried almost 3.8 million people. Photo: PA

Scandinavian airline Norwegian has reported record passenger numbers for July.

During the month the airline carried almost 3.8 million people.

The total number of passengers increased by 13pc compared to the same month last year, the airline said yesterday.

"We have been through a long period of strong growth and going forward we will reap what we have sown for the benefit of our customers, staff and shareholders," said Norwegian CEO Bjorn Kjos.

The airline's load factor for the month was 93pc. Last week, IAG boss Willie Walsh gave the airline a maximum of a year to agree to a takeover deal.

IAG - which owns Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Vueling and Level - snapped up a 4.6pc stake in Norwegian earlier this year. Mr Walsh said at the time that IAG would be interested in making an outright bid for the airline but he stressed that the window for thrashing out a deal was finite.

"There's no immediate hurry. But this time next year, if we haven't acquired Norwegian, we won't be holding those shares," he told the Irish Independent.

"If we're not acquiring it, we're not interested in being a shareholder. We'll wait and see what happens, but it's not a big issue on our agenda."

Norwegian, which operates services to the United States from Dublin, Cork and Shannon, is adding a service from the capital to Hamilton Toronto Airport next year.

In July, the airline reported a net profit of NOK 300m (31.7m) for the second quarter of 2018, compared to a 691m krone (73m) loss in the second quarter last year.

It was helped by a 19pc fall in non-fuel costs.

Shares in Norwegian were up 0.25pc in trading yesterday.
In the heart of London's theatre district opposite the Savoy Hotel, where rooms cost up to 700 a night, scores of people are lingering patiently.

In the heart of London's theatre district opposite the Savoy Hotel, where rooms cost up to 700 a night, scores of people are lingering patiently.

The snaking line near a branch of Coutts & Co, the bankers to the Queen, displays a portrait of contemporary London: men and women of all ages and ethnic backgrounds, some speaking English and some Polish amid a cacophony of other languages.

But they're not there for a deal on tickets to a West End show or a table at Gordon Ramsay's joint. They're there for food handouts.

Images of rich alongside poor, homelessness and soup kitchens aren't new in a city that inspired Charles Dickens and George Orwell, or even unique among major cities. But in Britain today, they reflect a society under increasing strain as Brexit - the relentless quest to leave the European Union - drains political energy and focus from confronting other pressing matters.

Government policymaking has been paralysed, unable to address the causes of the disillusionment that led to 2016's vote for Brexit while eight years and almost 140bn (159bn) of spending cuts hit public services and social aid.

In London, the wealth and glamour of Europe's most global city mask a struggling underclass in jobs that don't pay enough to afford the basics.

"I don't have much food so I need to get it somewhere," said Sean Gibson (41) standing at the back of the line patiently waiting for his dinner from the pink marquee run by Friends of Essex and London Homeless. He said he can't earn enough to pay rent and eat as a courier for a food delivery company. At most, he says he was earning 960 every six weeks in a city where average monthly rents are about twice that. "Half the rents here are 600 and up. How can people afford that? It's ridiculous," he said.

Britain is increasingly a country of parallel universes. Employment is at a record thanks to flexible work contracts like Gibson's, the economy is healthy enough for the Bank of England to be raising the cost of borrowing, and absolute poverty rates are at record lows.

Yet a report by the Resolution Foundation think tank found living standards rose last year at their slowest pace since 2012. The recovery in incomes following the global financial crisis has even gone into reverse for the poorest 30pc of families, it said.

While London is the wealthiest region in northern Europe, the UK is also home to nine of its 10 poorest regions.

Public spending in Britain has fallen to about 38pc of gross domestic product from 45pc in 2010, according to the Office for Budget Responsibility. Research by charity Shelter found that 55pc of homeless families in temporary accommodation are working. The 33,000 families represent an increase of 73pc since 2013, according to the research based on freedom of information requests.

"Everybody's fighting for themselves now," Mohammed Nazir, the cabinet member for housing in Slough Borough Council on the fringes of London, said after a meeting in parliament about homelessness. "Social consciousness is rapidly disappearing."

Prime Minister Theresa May, meanwhile, is battling daily to hold on to her leadership. Eight members of the government quit since she recently announced her Brexit road map. Policymaking has become firefighting as the clock ticks down to Britain's formal departure from the EU.

There have been four different housing ministers in as many years. Policies to reduce homelessness are routinely overshadowed, said Neil Coyle, a Labour politician who co-chairs parliament's cross-party group on homelessness.

"We call it 'neglexit,'" he said. "It's when every other major policy issue is being neglected because of Brexit."

"It's very difficult for us to judge if someone is or isn't homeless because we've had people dressed quite nicely, and they make an effort," said Steven Stuart who set up the Friends of Essex and London Homeless charity 18 months ago with his wife. "We think of homelessness as a man sleeping in a doorway under a blanket, but it's on many levels now." Harriet (21) an east London real-estate agent, fell into the ranks of the homeless when the lease on her apartment expired earlier this year. She then took to renting rooms through Airbnb for two months.

"I was living in horrible flats with four rooms and the others were rented out to people who were smoking joints in the kitchen or travellers," said Harriet, who declined to be identified by her full name. "I was constantly stressing about not finding a room."

In London alone, the number of "hidden homeless" could be 13 times greater than the numbers on the street. As many as 12,500 people don't have a fixed abode, though they aren't included in statistics. And the number of sleepers on night buses more than doubled to 213 by the winter of 2015 and 2016 from the same season in 2012 to 2013, according to the mayor's office.

Phil, who didn't want to give his full name, now sleeps in the Westminster underground station, beside the Houses of Parliament. "You're only one pay cheque away from being on the streets," he said. "A lot of people don't realise it." (Bloomberg)
The portaloo to another dimension. PIC: Persandwichman/Twitter

Toilet doors dont always lead to the Chamber of Secrets- sometimes they lead to rave parties.

The Eastern Electrics Festival, held over the bank holiday weekend in Modern, United Kingdom, had portable toilets as any other festival does, with one silver lining:these ones transported you to a rave.

Many festival goers were shocked to discover that going to the loo led them to a party complete with loudspeakers, appropriate lighting, a dance floor and a night out vibe.

The ones lucky enough to encounter this took to Twitter to express their shock.

Its like Narnia but for Portaloo, said one user.

What in the wizarding world of Harry Potter, said another.

The footage filmed by festival goers shows a guard standing next to the Narnia-esque loo as people flood in, as though they're heading to a club on the weekend.

This hidden aspect certainly bumps up the general image of portable loos at music festivals.

Now thats a portaloo Id go near, said another user.
Jason Statham doesnt believe hell be the next James Bond (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

Jason Statham has ruled himself out of the running to be the next James Bond.

The actor is currently starring in The Meg, a film in which he plays a rescue diver tasked with saving a submarine crew trapped at the bottom of the ocean with a giant prehistoric shark.

At the films premiere in Los Angeles on Monday, the British actor was asked if he would be interested in playing Bond if Daniel Craig decides to step down after his fifth outing as the revered spy.

But Statham, best known for starring in action films such as Crank, Transporter and The Mechanic, threw cold water on the idea.

He said: No-one is coming to me for that job.

Statham, 51, was joined on the red carpet by his fiancee, the British model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, 31. The pair have a one-year-old son, Jack, and Statham joked about sneaking him into see The Meg, which is rated 12A in the UK.

He said: When hes big enough well have to sneak him in under my jacket.

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Whatsapp Li Bingbing stars alongside Jason Statham in The Meg and was full of praise for the actor (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

When questioned what fans can expect from The Meg  a film named after the giant extinct shark the megalodon  Statham said: You are going to love people getting eaten. And people like us not getting eaten.

Video of the Day

Chinese actress Li Bingbing, who has appeared in the Resident Evil and Transformers franchises, stars alongside Statham as his ex-wife and the films heroine.

She was full of praise for the actor. She said: Hes such a nice guy, hes so sweet and so handsome, so hot and hes so supportive during the shooting. Hes so considerate.

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Whatsapp Ruby Rose appears in the monster blockbuster (Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

Of her own character in the movie, Li, 45, said: My character, I really love the personality. So independent, so strong, so tough and so bold.

Director Jon Turteltaub  who made Cool Runnings  said audiences can expect action and laughs from the film, which also stars Orange Is The New Black actress Ruby Rose.

He added: Its a big, old-fashioned Hollywood monster movie with amazing characters, a lot of humour and all I care about as a director is people have fun.

Forget feeling sorry for yourself and learning about life, youre going to have fun.

The Meg is set to be released on August 10 in the UK.
Campaign group Solidarity with Repeal holding a rally calling for abortion rights outside Belfast City Hall. Photo: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images

Northern Ireland women will be able to access abortion services in Ireland once new laws are introduced, Minister for Health Simon Harris has said.

Mr Harris said access to health services for women in crisis pregnancy situations will not stop at the border after Ireland introduces unrestricted abortion up to 12 weeks.

Northern Ireland is the only country within UK which continues to ban abortion in almost all scenarios.

Speaking in Belfast at Feile an Phobail today, Minister Harris said, Last year at least 919 women from Northern Ireland travelled to England and Wales to access abortion services. This is a reality for women in Northern Ireland and one that I really hope their politicians address.

In recent months the Irish people have addressed this issue through our referendum to repeal the 8th amendment. I now intend to bring in legislation to give effect to this decision in the autumn.

Whilst I respect the issue of abortion laws in Northern Ireland is a matter for public representatives in Northern Ireland, I really hope this is addressed in the near future.

In the meantime, I intend to ensure women from Northern Ireland can access such services in the Republic, just like they can access other health services here.

Mr Harris also met with members of the Orange Order during his visit to Northern Ireland
According to Opposition sources, Tiruchi Siva of DMK, Vandana Chavan of NCP and nominated member K T S Tulsi are front-runners for the post.

New Delhi: With just two days left for the election of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, the Opposition will be announcing its candidate on Tuesday evening.

According to reports, Opposition is likely to field 57-year-old member of Sharad Pawars Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Vandana Chavan for the post.

Though media reports say that Vandana Chavan has been picked up as the Opposition candidate for the post, talking to reporters Chavan said, I would be very happy if any woman is elected as Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha, but nothing has been decided yet. Opposition meetings are going on, we should wait.

According to Opposition sources, Tiruchi Siva of DMK, Vandana Chavan of NCP and nominated member K T S Tulsi are front-runners for the post.

Vandana Chavan is a former Mayor of Pune.

Hectic meetings are being held since today morning which is the last date of filing of nomination for the post.

The ruling NDA has fielded 62-year-old Harivansh Narayan Singh, first-time lawmaker from ally Nitish Kumars Janata Dal United.

To win in the 245-member house, a candidate needs 123 votes, but any abstention will bring down the majority mark.

The current strength of Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in the full house.

The BJP is the largest party in the house with 73 members. Its allies JD(U), Shiv Sena, Akali Dal have six, three and three members, respectively.

Besides the nominated and independent members affiliated to it, the BJP is banking on the support of 13, nine, six and two members of the AIADMK, BJD, TRS, YSR Congress respectively, its floor managers said. If all four parties support the NDA candidate, then the numbers add up to 126.

However, if parties like BJD or TRS abstain from voting, then things will become more precarious for the ruling alliance.

Both these parties had abstained during a vote on the recent motion of no-confidence against the government in the Lok Sabha while the AIADMK had voted with the treasury benches.

The BJP is hoping to get support of four of the six independent members and three of the four nominated members. The Congress has 50 members.

(With PTI inputs)
Kelly-Anne Byrne didnt want to leave Dublin but felt she had to because of the housing situation

A Today FM presenter is being forced to commute from Glasgow to Dublin every week for work due to extortionate rental costs.

Broadcaster Kelly-Anne Byrne says it makes more financial sense to fly between Scotland and Ireland than to live and rent in Dublin.

Ms Byrne decided to start looking for accommodation abroad when the lease on her Dublin flat was unexpectedly terminated.

Having lived in the flat for four years, Ms Byrne had four months to vacate the premises.

"It came out of nowhere," she said.

The broadcaster, who presents 'The Beat Goes On' every Saturday and Sunday, searched for a new home for three months but could find no affordable options.

"Prices were extortionate and a lot of the places were just awful. It was soul-destroying," she said.

She searched for properties outside Dublin but options in Cork and Galway were also limited.

According to a Daft.ie report, the average monthly rent in Dublin at the end of May was 1,923, and in Cork and Galway, average monthly rents were 1,210 and 1,131 respectively.

Ms Byrne decided to move to Scotland and now lives in a two-bedroom apartment in the West End of Glasgow for the equivalent of 770 per month.

Return flights to Dublin work out at 30 each week (120 per month), providing she books them in advance.

"I didn't want to leave Dublin but in all my years renting I've never seen the housing situation as bad as it is now. Leaving wasn't easy but I had to do it," she said.

The rental market can make individuals feel like a failure, she added.
A MAN who stole an energy bar worth less than 4 from a Dublin cafe has ended up paying 200 in court to avoid a theft conviction.

Paul Maher (29) had the case against him struck out after he paid the money to charity.

Maher, with an address at Valley Park Road, Finglas, pleaded guilty to theft.

Gda Sandra Lavin told Dublin District Court that the defendant went into the Food Room in Clontarf at 3.45pm on March 7 last year.

He picked up an energy bar worth 3.95 and left without paying.

The court heard that Maher had previous convictions for theft.

The defendant had a limited recollection of the incident, his barrister told the court.

WORRIED

He was not working at the moment and was worried about the implications of a conviction on his prospects.

Maher had brought a substantial sum of money to court and was asking to be left without a conviction.

Judge John Lindsay noted that the defendant already had convictions.

That did not preclude the court from not recording a conviction in this case, his barrister replied.

He also asked the judge to take account of the relatively low value of what was stolen.

Gardai had no objections to the case being dealt with in this way, the court heard.

Judge Lindsay struck the charge out, leaving Maher without a conviction after 200 was handed in to court to be donated to the Capuchin Day Centre.
A total of 27 taxi drivers are under investigation as a result of a multi-agency crackdown involving the immigration bureau.

The operation, codenamed Vantage, followed an analysis of new and existing applicants for public service vehicle (PSV) licences.

It identified a huge increase in the number of applications for licences from non-EU nationals over the past 18 months.

The study showed, in particular, a disproportionate rise in applications from Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi nationals. This led to the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) focusing on the validity of their immigration status and examining their past.

The figures showed there had been 70 applications for taxi licences by nationals from those three countries in 2016.

But the number jumped dramatically to 290 in 2017, more than all of the applications made the previous year.

Last January, the Garda carriage office reported that 40 out of 58 new applications were from non-EU nationals.

Following further inquiries by gardai, it was decided to set up multi-agency checkpoints with GNIB backed up by multi-agency personnel including the Department of Social Protection. Three locations were selected for the checkpoints, at St John's Road, inbound and outbound, and Military Road, all close to Heuston Station, on the night of the Ed Sheeran concert in the Phoenix Park in Dublin.

A senior Garda officer said: "The purpose of the checkpoints was to identify and detect any criminal offences and/or breaches of relevant legislation and immigration controls, being committed by public service vehicle licence holders.

"It was suspected there were a number of people operating as illegal taxi drivers and individuals committing offences contrary to road traffic legislation," the officer added.

During the checkpoints 110 vehicles were inspected and the drivers interviewed. Further inquiries are under way into the immigration status of 27 drivers in the State.

Most of them are being investigated for suspected involvement in marriages of convenience, or sham marriages, to circumvent the immigration laws.

The residency cards of a number of drivers have already been revoked, as a result of alleged links to sham marriages, fraud and breaches of EU treaty rights. Several of those decisions are now under appeal.
A female bishop has called on Pope Francis to publicly apologise to the women of Ireland for the Church's "toxic" policies towards them.

Bishop Bridget Meehan (70), who has been excommunicated by the Catholic Church, celebrated a liturgy in Dublin at the weekend.

Speaking to the Irish Independent, she hit out at the Church's "collusion in devastating policies that hurt women's lives" in Magdalene laundries and mother and baby homes.

"Pope Francis needs to ask forgiveness for the abuse of women by the Catholic Church in Ireland. My cousin suffered cruelty when she was pregnant at a home. She said she wants to hear an apology from Pope Francis, the Church hierarchy and the State, all of whom were in collusion," she said.

She added that the Church had "devastated women through abusive practices" such as its ban on artificial contraception and its ban on women priests.

"The Church is responsible for the suffering of millions of women's lives around the world," she said of the contraceptive ban and highlighted that two-thirds of those in poverty globally are women and their dependent children.

"Pope Francis has got to change toxic Church teaching about contraception as a first step."

Referring to the 50th anniversary of the controversial papal encyclical Humanae Vitae, which banned contraception, Bishop Meehan asked: "When are we going to finally say to couples to make decisions on contraception according to their own conscience?

"The heart of this is patriarchy - males making rules about women's lives, males that have no clue of what it means to be pregnant."

Co Laois-born Bishop Meehan became a priest in the first USA ordination of a woman in Pittsburgh in 2006 and was later ordained a bishop in California in 2009. There are 260 women worldwide who have been ordained Catholic priests, although the Vatican deems such ordinations illicit and excommunicates any women who is ordained.
A NUMBER of children received a double dose of the controversial swine flu vaccine, which is now at the centre of a global controversy over the sleep disorder narcolepsy, the Irish Independent can reveal.

The HSE provided doctors with stockpiles of the vaccine when supplies of the normal winter flu jab threatened to run short in 2011.

The vaccine Pandemrix, developed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in Germany, was first used in Ireland in 2009-2010 during a threatened swine flu pandemic. But it was re-issued in Ireland amid fears of a shortage of the usual winter flu vaccine in 2011.

Around the same time, major concerns were beginning to emerge in other European countries, amid a sudden spike in cases of the sleep disorder narcolepsy.

Now the Irish Independent has learned of a young girl who received two doses of Pandemrix - one in 2009 and another unwittingly in 2011. She is now battling narcolepsy daily.

Her mother and older sister also received a Pandemrix dose in January 2011, believing at the time it was the ordinary winter flu vaccine.

The vaccine is at the centre of a global narcolepsy controversy, amid revelations the vaccine tricks the human immune system into mistaking the neuropeptide Orexin for the swine flu virus.

Catastrophic

Orexin is a vital regulator of sleep, and the consequences for sufferers can be catastrophic - they can collapse into deep sleep without warning, often in the middle of daily tasks. Some can even fall asleep while eating, with their mouths full of food. Many will suffer from narcolepsy and its symptoms for the rest of their lives.

To fast-track the vaccine into service in 2009, the Government granted GlaxoSmithKline a full indemnity as demanded by the drug firm.

The Government, like other European countries, were desperate to get a vaccine into service at the height of the 2009 swine flu, or H1N1, scare after the World Health Organisation warned of a pandemic.

"Due to ongoing litigation in Ireland concerning Pandemrix and other confidentiality commitments, we are not able to comment," a GSK spokesperson said.

The Irish Independent has now learned the Pandemrix problem facing the State was compounded by the decision in 2011 to use up vaccine stockpiles when doctors ran short of normal winter flu jab.

It is feared others may have unwittingly received doses of Pandemrix but have not yet displayed symptoms of narcolepsy.

In some cases, narcolepsy can manifest itself many years later, such as during puberty.

A test case is currently before the High Court over an alleged breach of duty of care over the provision of Pandemrix with the HSE, Health Minister, State drug agency and GSK as defendants.

Suffers

The young woman involved claimed she suffers from narcolepsy, cataplexy and fainting fits as a result of receiving the vaccine in 2009. Liability has not been conceded.

In the UK, one test case already resulted in a payment of 120,000 (134,000) to a 12-year-old boy who developed narcolepsy after receiving the swine flu jab.

Almost 100 further cases are expected before the Irish courts in the coming years.

Tens of thousands of doses of Pandemrix were initially offered nationwide by the HSE in 2009 and into 2010. In March 2010, the HSE advised a halt to the use of Pandemrix.

However, just eight months later, the HSE faced a problem with a threatened shortfall of normal winter flu vaccines.

With significant stocks of Pandemrix still unused, on January 7, 2011, the HSE re-issued Pandemrix as a replacement flu vaccine if other supplies ran out. However, major medical investigations were already under way since August 2010 into possible side-effects from the vaccine in Sweden, Finland and Norway.

Finland's National Institute for Health and Welfare (NIHW) and Sweden's Medical Products Agency launched separate probes in August 2010 amid mounting reports of narcolepsy in youngsters who had received the vaccine. However, no formal study results were available until early 2011.

In a January 2011 letter, the HSE National Cold Chain Service confirmed it was re-issuing Pandemrix supplies given concerns over a winter flu vaccine shortfall. The HSE letter added the winter flu vaccine should be prioritised for pregnant women, and children aged from six months to 18 years in medically at-risk groups.

In late February 2011, Finland's NIHW announced a spike in narcolepsy cases and a suspected link between Pandemrix and the sleep disorder.

On March 28, just 11 weeks after its Pandemrix re-issue letter, the HSE ordered a halt to all use of the vaccine on foot of the NIHW report.

Letter

"I am sure you are aware of reports from Finland and more recently from Sweden regarding a possible association between the use of Pandemrix and the onset of narcolepsy in young people," a senior HSE official advised in a letter to clinics.

"In early January, I advised you that Pandemrix was only recommended if you had a shortage of seasonal flu vaccine. As additional stocks of seasonal flu vaccine were delivered to all sites that requested them from the end of January, there has been no requirement to use Pandemrix in any age group."

However, despite that HSE statement, at least three people received the Pandemrix vaccine as the winter flu jab.

The campaign group Sound (Sufferers Of Unique Narcolepsy Disorder) fears there are many more.

One little girl received her first dose of Pandemrix on November 16, 2009, and then a second dose of Pandemrix on January 18, 2011, 11 days after the HSE letter was issued advising GPs to use the vaccine in case of a shortfall of the normal flu vaccine. The Irish Independent has seen the youngster's vaccine record.

Studies by the 'British Medical Journal', the European Medicines Agency and NIHW found that children vaccinated with Pandemrix have a 13.9 times higher risk of narcolepsy than unvaccinated children.

A report commissioned by the Irish Government in 2012 further verified these findings. However, the 2012 report was not a definitive medical study.

Sound now provides support for over 90 Irish families so far affected by the vaccine. It wants the State to provide a support pathway for children and young adults without each having to be assessed on an individual basis for such vital resources.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar was recently challenged in the Dail over the Pandemrix issue by the Independent TD Clare Daly. He said his understanding was that a definitive medical study link between the vaccine and narcolepsy had not yet been confirmed.

"It is part of a bigger issue of how we deal with medical harm and medical negligence," he said. "The last time I studied that topic and got a briefing on it, my understanding was that there wasn't sufficient epidemiological evidence to show that vaccine caused the harms that were claimed. But I will take a look at it again because it is not something I have had any engagement on in these two years."

Ingredient

However, Sound is demanding an explanation as to why the Government opted for the German-made vaccine now at the centre of the narcolepsy controversy when a second vaccine, manufactured in Canada, was also available.

A single extra ingredient in the German-made vaccine is believed to be the source of the narcolepsy issue. The Canadian vaccine has not been linked with major narcolepsy issues.

"New sufferers are still presenting," warned Tom Matthews, one of Sound's founders.

"Sound has always stated that it is not anti-vaccine, and that the Pandemrix scandal was a result of the State rushing to get whatever vaccine it could and that it was acting with the best intentions.

"However, from the start, their response to what transpired has been painfully slow and this has been an extremely difficult and protracted process for the families involved.

"We believe it is way past time for the State to finally step up on this issue and to fulfil the duty of care it is morally bound to provide to the children and young adults who have been injured by the State."

Mr Matthews said the case highlighted by the Irish Independent was "another tragic example of the ongoing scandal of Pandemrix".

The US-based Centre for Disease Control (CDC) ordered a full study into the swine flu vaccine. However, it found no link between the Canadian vaccine and narcolepsy.

Critically, the CDC confirmed that Pandemrix was never licensed for use in the US.

However, a HSE spokesperson said it had only sought tender applications from pandemic vaccine manufacturers in Europe and whose products were licensed by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

"The HSE only procured pandemic vaccines that were licensed by the EMA. Pandemic vaccine which was manufactured in Canada was not licensed by the EMA," a HSE spokesperson said.
An IT engineer, who left a trail of debt behind him after borrowing a total of just under 50,000 from six colleagues at his firm, has been sacked for violating the companys expenses policy.

Initially, the man received a loan of 3,000 in April 2017 from his employer on a humanitarian and exceptional basis after the IT engineer in his urgent loan request said that he required the money for hospital treatment fees for his father who was diagnosed with cancer.

The IT engineer then secured a loan of $20,000 (aprox 17,200) from his immediate boss in June of last year after telling him that he needed the money to pay for an additional hospital stay after his father had to go through a triple heart by-pass.

During this time on a business trip to the US, the IT specialist ran up a $5,651 (aprox 4,800) expense bill on the company credit card and had not entered an expense report for approval.

It was during the Irish based company's investigation into the unpaid expense bill that the scale of the mans loan spree with colleagues was laid bare.

Along with the $20,000 that his boss had provided for the IT engineers fathers hospital treatment, the company learned on August 14 last that three other employees had lent the man money in the amounts of $3,000 (aprox 2,500), $3,500 (aprox3,024), $5,000 (aprox 4,320) and $12,000 (apox 10,369).

On August 22, another company employee came forward to say that had lent the IT specialist 9,000 and only 900 was paid back. Three days later, another employee came forward to say that he had lent the man 3,000 towards the end of July and said that the IT engineer was not reachable and had unfriended the employee on Facebook.

In total, the man borrowed $43,500 (37,671) from four work colleagues along with an additional 12,000 from two others giving a total of 49,671.

During the investigation, the man claimed that the $20,000 borrowed from his boss for his fathers cancer treatment had been repaid but the Irish based IT specialist company discovered that the money has not been repaid and the sum in still outstanding.

The company also learned that the IT engineer approached a senior leader outside his own normal management chain for a loan of 20,000 in July as his father had complications arising from his cancer treatment.

On July 27 2017, another employee reported that he had been approached by the IT specialist for a loan of 12,000 and he had advised HR of this as he thought that the approach was highly unusual. No money changed hands in either case.

During the course of the investigation, the IT engineer said that on the investigation please don't ask me anything about my Dad, that is personal and you know the story there . Well I know these things can go one way or another, so if it is headed in a certain direction, then maybe it would be better now to reach an agreement and we close things off nicely. Could we talk about that?

When asked what he meant by this, the IT engineer went on to suggest that the company could come to a financial arrangement based on him being given stock options in the company.

The man also revealed that LinkedIn had told him to stop spamming other LinkedIn users while his employer had refused a request for him to post a link on the company's website seeking public funding for a personal matter.

On August 24, the company sacked the man for gross misconduct as a result of violating the companys expense policy.

The firm stated that the dismissal was warranted by the IT engineers calculated deception to get money from his employer.

The firm stated that the man has not repaid the company.

During the disciplinary process the IT engineer said that he would repay the money but he never has.

The firm stated that the IT engineer owed considerable sums of money, most of which he had borrowed from his work colleagues and this was a fact that he never disclosed to his employer.

The man sued for unfair dismissal at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and the WRC has found that the mans claim was not well founded.

The man claimed that he was not afforded the principles of natural justice in the company's disciplinary and disciplinary proceedings against him. However, the man did not turn up at the WRC hearing to advance his claim.

According to WRC Adjudication Officer, Gerald McMahon the man provided no excuse for his non-attendance.
Children's Minister Katherine Zappone has revealed why she has decided to overcome her fears and is determined to learn Irish in the Co Donegal Gaeltacht.

US-born Ms Zappone, who has lived in Ireland since 1983 and been an Irish citizen since 1995, said she was finally confronting an ambition she had had for a very long time.

She is now determined to learn "the language of saints, scholars and poets".

"This is something I have long thought about but never started, perhaps a little daunted because I am starting from a base of zero and, in the past, I have found new languages difficult," she told the Irish Independent of her plans to study in Co Donegal later this month.

Ms Zappone said she had for many years been inspired by the "gra" Irish speakers shown for the language.

"I first witnessed the love for Irish when I arrived in Ireland in 1983. Friends who were teaching their children a 'cupla focal' from the very beginning deeply impressed me. Here was a living language spoken in family homes, among family, friends and colleagues," she said.

The Independent TD for Dublin South-West believes Irish is a language of the arts and culture in Ireland.

"As a lover of poetry, I could listen and feel but not understand the beautiful words of poets like Nuala Ni Dhomhnaill. Irish is the language of the arts, it raises our passions and our spirits," she said.

Ms Zappone, who also served as an Independent senator from 2011 until she was elected a TD in February 2016, said she had also been impressed by politicians, across all parties, who had shown a commitment to Gaeilge.

"The issues of the day come alive when Micheal Martin and Caoimhghin O Caolain debate in our native tongue.

"Their passionate words fill the Dail chamber," she said.

The Children's Minister said she looked forward to engaging with people through Irish if they wished to use it.

Her department had already taken some steps to facilitate greater use of the language.
The girl was malnourished and had developed rickets, several reports said quoting the police.

A tantrik had advised the parents that if they bury the girl's body at home, the next child will be healthy. (Photo: Twitter | ANI)

Mumbai: In a horrifying incident, a couple allegedly killed their six-year-old daughter and buried her inside their home near Uttar Pradeshs Moradabad district believing that their next child will be healthy.

The girl was malnourished and had developed rickets, several reports said quoting the police.

According to news agency ANI, a tantrik had advised the parents that if they bury the girl's body at home, the next child will be healthy.

A police team visited Anandpal's home in Chaudharpur village on a neighbours complain. On digging the ground, they found the body of the girl identified as Tara.

Autopsy report revealed that Tara was kept without food or water for five days and she died of suffocation.

According to Taras grandmother, the girl was buried inside the house as her mother did not want to part with her.

Speaking about Taras health, she told ANI, We tried several medicines, but nothing worked on her and she kept getting weaker. My grandson has also developed rickets.

An FIR has been registered against Taras parents and they will be arrested soon, a police officer from Moradabad said.
As you read this, I am in Edinburgh at the festivals. The International, Fringe and Tattoo festivals, have just begun and the book festival begins next week. The Fringe is probably the best known and people think of it as a comedy festival, but it also comprises drama and music in all its forms, as well as dance and spoken word, such as poetry and storytelling. All of these have their appeal, but its reputation has been built on comedy.

Over one million extra people visit Edinburgh during the festivals, mostly for the Fringe, with over 3000 shows to choose from. Many well-known comedians cut their teeth there, including Stephen Fry, Ardal O'Hanlon, Rowan Atkinson and Tim Vine. Some continue to appear even after they've achieved international fame

All genres of comedy - and there are dozens - are on offer and obviously the quality varies from abysmal to side-splitting, though personal taste plays an obvious part in that judgement. Stand-up is the most common and various styles are on offer ranging from black to blue to deadpan. Improvised comedy is hugely popular and while many may not be familiar with this, the best personifications of the style are Paul Merton and Greg Proops. Whose Line Is It Anyway ran on TV for many years. This is highly engaging because of the audience's involvement, suggesting themes to the actors who then construct a short performance around these. An example might be a comedy musical based on Shakespeare's Hamlet in a space station.

At the Fringe there is a daily improvised performance of Jane Austen's works and these are sold out every year. "Improv" is zany and appeals to the ridiculous. It is my preferred genre. Then there is anecdotal or storytelling comedy, sometimes based on embellished truth but the narratives can also be fictitious. Gyles Brandreth, a former MP, famous also for one-liners, is the funniest exemplifier of this style and he is back at the festival this year.

The appeal of comedy is inescapable. "Laughter is the best medicine" as the prosaic adage says. There is some truth to this since laughing has an effect on the limbic system in the brain. This is the part that produces emotion and the amygdala is one of the structures involved in moderating emotions such as love, affection/friendship and mood. Loud, uncontrollable laughter is controlled by the hypothalamus.

Another structure, the nucleus acumbens is involved in pleasurable feelings associated with some addictive drugs and also with laughter. The funnier the person perceives the content to be, the more blood that flows to the nucleus acumbens. So this is the area of the brain concerned with humour appreciation. Comedy has been shown to improve blood flow and increase good cholesterol. It also reduces blood pressure. Laughter demonstrates clearly the link between mind and body, the psychological and the physical.

At a personal level, laughter is a relaxant that can reduce stress and diffuse anger. It can generate bonds between people and make the joker likeable. In larger groups laughing together can create a sense of belonging.

On TV, the sitcoms use laughter tracks and this is because laughter is contagious (to quote another banal, but wise phrase "laugh and the world laughs with you"). Humour is a tool used by people in stressful jobs or who have difficult personal situations to deal with.

Comedy is often frowned upon as lowbrow when compared to opera, serious theatre or visual arts. But several third-level institutions have faculties devoted to the study of humour and comedy. Brunel University in London has a centre for comedy studies research and Columbia College, Chicago also has a comedy studies faculty. Salford University in Manchester has a comedy writing and performance course as have many other colleges in the UK and the USA.

With the Edinburgh Fringe accommodation all booked out, I can recommend a few clips of some of the funniest comedians I have had the joy of seeing.

Search YouTube for Gyles Brandreth on a TV panel explaining the Brexit referendum, Tracey Ullman running a "Woke" support Group or Rhod Gilbert discussing his anger management diary.

Enjoy and laugh until your sides ache and tears run down your face!
A detail of her bedroom with its feature wall of Harlequin wallpaper. The lamp is vintage, and she opted for vintage-style reproduction radiators

Gillian Hyland in her mid-century-modern-style kitchen. The units are birch plywood, with orange formica doors. Gillian sourced and bought every item herself, including the fish-scale floor tiles, and the glass lamps, which she bought in John Lewis. The bevelled glass of the lamps matches that of the glass units above the formica cupboards

To undertake a home renovation is always daunting, to do it virtually alone, even more so; to do it alone and in a country not your own is a monumental task, but one that Dubliner Gillian Hyland undertook with gusto.

She had a vision, and with a limited budget, she created a mid-century gem in the heart of London.

Vision is the word that sums up Gillian. She has a highly creative eye for the unusual, and this talent, along with her single-mindedness, has taken her from TV researcher to fashion stylist to set designer to art photographer, both in Dublin and London. It's a talent she wears lightly. "I'm a little bit of everything," Gillian says with a laugh, adding that, despite her youth - the willowy brunette is in her early 30s - the reason she has done so much is she had a head start.

"I started very young, around 19, styling and working on shoots. Being around the business helped me develop an aesthetic of my own. I got to work with a lot of talented people; that was inspiring," she says.

Expand Close Gillian Hyland favours vintage furniture - she collected quite a bit during her years renting in London before she bought her apartment - including this sideboard / Facebook

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Whatsapp Gillian Hyland favours vintage furniture - she collected quite a bit during her years renting in London before she bought her apartment - including this sideboard

The Glasnevin native studied media and broadcasting at Ballyfermot College, and, while there, she started writing fashion articles for U magazine. That led her to styling for Off the Rails, RTE's fashion programme in the early 2000s, and from there to doing the interior pages of the RTE Guide, as well as some music journalism and fashion for Hot Press. All the while, she was learning the languages of film, TV and photography. "The styling, the journalism and the interiors all flowed together in Dublin," she notes.

The series producer of Off The Rails, Anne Roper, has, Gillian says, been a great mentor over the years. "Anne went on to make a lot of documentaries and she employed me to get props when she was doing reconstructions. That was a great education in film," Gillian notes.

She was offered a job in a London media company, coming up with ideas for advertising campaigns. She took it, but she soon found it wasn't hands-on enough. "They worked with lots of brands, and they wanted somebody to come up with ideas for campaigns. It was very office-based, and I didn't actually get to go on shoots," Gillian says. "I missed the creativity. It was so frustrating."

After six months in that company, she realised she'd be better off becoming a freelance stylist in London, and so she got an agent and quickly established a client base. "In Dublin, I just went from job to job, it was all word of mouth, but I had no contacts in London. The agent got me the jobs. I worked with a lot of women's titles - Elle, Red - and I did mainly advertising work; that's where the money is. L'Oreal, Sony, mainly print. I did TV stuff for Thomas Cook and Ford. Some jobs, I just did fashion styling, some interiors, some both. Some jobs, I was creating the overall aesthetic," she notes, adding, "It kept me entertained for many years."

Gillian says she learned a lot from the photographers and art directors she worked with, and, like herself, many are not English; they came from everywhere, especially Italy and Scandanavia. Through them, she learned about lighting and all the other elements of photography, and started helping on set. "When I started doing my own photography, it meant I wasn't just starting out," she says. "Before that, I collaborated with a few photographers. It got to the point where I thought, 'I'm kind of doing everything but taking the picture'. The only way for me to own it was to do the photography side."

She has now done some commercial photography - recent work includes a campaign for a Japanese kids' brand and a job with Canon; this she does alongside art photography, telling stories through her images. She's produced a stunning book called Words In Sight, which contains poems she's written herself, along with corresponding images. "It's an ongoing project, I've been working on it for years," she says.

Gillian seems to enjoy making things challenging for herself; many of the photographs for the book were shot in Cuba, a place she had visited and liked. "I'd go over for a month at a time, find locations I liked. I did castings - some models, some people I just found on the street, people I thought looked interesting, as each photograph tells a story. I'm very much about the composition of the image. Each poem and each photograph has a strong emotional presence."

Gillian sells the limited-edition prints of these photos through her website, and through art galleries like Sol Art on D'Olier Street.

Of course, some have made their way onto the walls of her stunning apartment in Clapton in London, which she bought in 2014, though stunning it wasn't when she bought it. "It looked like a squat; it had been really run down, you wouldn't have wanted to look at the kitchen and bathroom; it was awful," Gillian recalls with a shudder.

At the time, property was at an all-time high in London. It was impossible to get a private viewing; there were queues to see every apartment, and they were all going 70,000-90,000 beyond their asking price. Few, however were interested in the one Gillian bought. "It was too much work for a first-time buyer or a couple - you couldn't move in until it was done up - and investors would buy something cheaper. I got excited because I thought I could make it exactly the way I'd like it," she explains.

In its favour, it was an old building - 1930s, warehouse style, with high walls and lots of light - in an area she likes. She had a vision for what she wanted including an open-plan living space. She got an architect to draw up the plans and a structural engineer to see about knocking down the walls. She had the floors ripped out, and had to have them relevelled and new oak floors and tiles put in.

New plumbing and electrics were also necessary. "I remember my sister Lisa, who also lives in London now, came over, and there were no floors, and wires hanging everywhere. She was like, 'Do you know what you've taken on?'" As well as the open-plan living space, Gillian put in two bedrooms, a bathroom and lots of storage.

The build was not smooth going. The first contractor wasn't good, so Gillian had to fire him. So after that, she hired individual plumbers, carpenters, tilers, etc.

She also bought every single item herself. "I paid them for labour only. I bought everything - building supplies, paint, even bags of cement, every single bag," she explains.

It took eight months in total, and it cost much more than she thought, but she admits she never compromised. "I could have done it cheaper, but I chose not to compromise on items like the bathroom," she says. "I chose not to go down that road."

She decided she'd like a mid-century vibe, so she opted for formica units in the kitchen with all the utilities hidden behind them. "I wanted the kitchen to add to the living space, I wanted it to be clean and concealed," Gillian says.

In the living areas, the walls are panelled. "I did a lot of research and found a kind of panelling I'd like. It's great for hanging pictures."

All the furnishings have a retro quality; some are new, some are vintage, yet it's also warm and welcoming. A real achievement. "At one level, it was very stressful, but in many ways I enjoyed it," she says. "It was like a massive set for me to design and build." See gillianhyland.com See solart.ie

Edited by Mary O'Sullivan

Photography by Gillian Hyland
The BBC has gone to a US court in a bid to track down the source of a Doctor Who leak (Sophie Mutevelian/PA)

The BBC has gone to a US court in a bid to track down the source of a Doctor Who leak earlier this year and is asking technology giant Microsoft for information.

Footage from Jodie Whittakers upcoming debut as the first female Time Lord in the revered sci-fi franchise was leaked online.

The 53-second clip and two still images of Whittaker were shared in June.

Expand Close The BBC has taken legal action after footage from Jodie Whittakers Doctor Who debut was leaked online (Ian West/PA) / Facebook

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Whatsapp The BBC has taken legal action after footage from Jodie Whittakers Doctor Who debut was leaked online (Ian West/PA)

According to legal documents lodged in Washington, the footage was stored and shared on Microsoft-operated file-hosting service OneDrive.

The documents say the BBC, referred to as BBC Worldwide Limited t/a BBC Studios (Distribution), is asking the court to subpoena Microsoft under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA).

The BBC is looking to identify an alleged infringer or infringers of its copyright material, which was taken from episode one of Doctor Who season 11.

It means the corporation is asking Microsoft to hand over any information that could identify the user of the OneDrive account which leaked the footage.

In July, the BBC asked a court in California to force a company based in the state to produce records to identify the leaker. The leaked footage was shared on Tapatalk.

Doctor Who season 11 is set to arrive later this year.
Undated photo of Joel Urhie who was named by his father as the seven year old boy who died in a house fire on Adolphus Street, Deptford, south-east London. Issue date: Tuesday August 7, 2018. Family handout/PA Wire

The death of seven-year-old Joel Urhie in a house fire in Deptford, south east London, is being treated as murder, Detective Superintendent Jane Corrigan has said.

London Fire Brigade said six fire engines and approximately 35 firefighters were called to the fire on Adolphus Street, Deptford in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The service said: "Firefighters arrived to find a very severe fire inside the house. The ground floor was badly damaged by the blaze, as well as the whole of the first floor and the stairs from the ground to the first floor.

"Two women jumped from first floor level shortly before the first firefighters arrived at scene. They were both treated at the scene by firefighters and London Ambulance Service crews.

"Sadly, a seven-year-old boy was found deceased by firefighters inside the property.

"The Brigade was called at 3.25am and the fire was brought under control by 4.48am. Fire crews from Dockhead, Greenwich, New Cross and Lewisham fire stations attended the incident.

Neighbours told of their shock at the boy's death as investigators worked inside the fire-ravaged house behind a police cordon.

"I saw him last on Friday. It was my birthday so we had a barbecue," said Wale Arthur, 39. "He was a very happy lad."

A family friend, who asked not to be named, described him as a "very quiet boy".

"I saw him on Sunday. He came to my house and we took him to church," she said.

The family friend said the boy lived in the house with his mother, a nurse, and his sister.
Donald Trump tweeted that he is asking for world peace (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Donald Trump has warned countries doing business with Iran that they will not be doing business with the US.

Mr Trump also said in an early morning Twitter session that the sanctions placed back on Iran by the US were reintroduced in his pursuit for world peace.

The first set of US sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early on Tuesday under an executive order signed by Mr Trump.

They targeted financial transactions that involve US dollars, Iran's automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

More US sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

Mr Trump tweeted: "Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States."

He added: "I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!"

The stiff economic sanctions ratchet up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after Mr Trump pulled the US out of the international accord limiting Iran's nuclear activities.

Mr Trump declared the landmark 2015 agreement had been "horrible", leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

Iran accused the US of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by the Obama administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest. European allies said they "deeply regret" the US action.

As the sanctions loomed, Mr Trump said in a statement: "We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilising behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation."

Mr Trump warned that those who don't wind down their economic ties to Iran "risk severe consequences".

Despite Mr Trump's claims, the accord "is working and delivering on its goal" of limiting Iran's nuclear programme, said a statement by European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

The ministers said the Iran deal is "crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world", and the European Union issued a "blocking statute" on Monday to protect European businesses from the impact of the sanctions.

A senior administration official, briefing reporters under ground rules requiring anonymity, said the United States is "not particularly concerned" by EU efforts to protect European firms from the sanctions.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran can still rely on China and Russia to keep its oil and banking sectors afloat. Speaking in a television interview, he also demanded compensation for decades of American "intervention" in the Islamic Republic.

Months of uncertainty surrounding the sanctions have already further hurt Iran's economy. The country's rial currency has tanked, and the downturn has sparked protests across the nation.

The "Trump Administration wants the world to believe it's concerned about the Iranian people", Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a statement posted to Twitter. But, he said, the reimposed sanctions would endanger "ordinary Iranians".

"US hypocrisy knows no bounds," he said.

US officials insisted the American government stands with the people of Iran and supports many of their complaints against their own government.
Tetsuo Yukioka, managing director of Tokyo Medical University, left, and Keisuke Tomizawa, a representative of the head of Tokyo Medical University, behind, bow during a press conference (Eugene Hoshiko/AP)

A Japanese medical school has confirmed after an internal investigation that it systematically altered entrance exam scores for years to keep out female applicants and ensure more men became doctors.

Tokyo Medical University manipulated all entrance tests results since 2000 or even earlier.

The findings released on Tuesday by lawyers involved in the internal investigation confirm recent reports in Japanese media.

Expand Close Internal investigation committee members hold a press conference on an investigation on fraud into its admissions process of Tokyo Medical University (Eugene Hoshiko/AP) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Internal investigation committee members hold a press conference on an investigation on fraud into its admissions process of Tokyo Medical University (Eugene Hoshiko/AP)

The manipulation surfaced during an investigation of an alleged wrongful admission of a bureaucrats son.

The internal investigation found the school first reduced all applicants first-stage scores to 80% then added up to 20 points only to male applicants with three or fewer application tries.

The school wanted fewer female doctors because it anticipated they would become mothers and would shorten or halt their careers.
A young girl had leg bitten by a shark while swimming of the coast of North Carolina .

The incident happened off the coast of Bald Head Island on Sunday morning.

The girl's father brought her to shore on a surfboard and a witness called the emergency services.

She was rushed to hospital but the wound was not life-threatening.

The Brunswick County Sheriffs Office said it is believed she was bitten by a juvenile shark.
Childrens clothes drying in the makeshift compound in New Mexico. Photo: AFP/Getty Images

Eleven children, aged from one to 15, were rescued in the US state of New Mexico after officers raided a makeshift compound occupied by armed "extremists".

Two men were arrested after police found them and the children in what one officer called "the saddest living conditions and poverty I have seen".

The discovery came as part of an operation connected to a search for an abducted three-year-old, according to Taos County sheriff's office.

The investigation started late last year on the opposite side of the country in Jonesboro, Georgia, where 39-year-old Siraj Wahhaj was accused of kidnapping his toddler, who was not found.

The boy's mother told police her child, who she said suffered from seizures and development and cognitive delays, went to a park with his father Wahhaj last December and did not return.

Last Thursday, Sheriff Jerry Hogrefe of Taos County, New Mexico, issued a search warrant describing "a makeshift compound surrounded by tyres and an earthen berm", where Wahhaj and adult Lucas Morten were thought to be.

Expand Close Georgia man Siraj Wahhaj after his arrest. (Taos County Sheriff's Office via AP) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Georgia man Siraj Wahhaj after his arrest. (Taos County Sheriff's Office via AP)

The FBI provided information and surveillance on the spot but "didn't feel there was enough probable cause to get on the property," Mr Hogrefe said.

"That all changed for me when a message was forwarded to us from a Georgia detective that we reasonably believed came from someone at the compound.

"The message sent to a third party simply said in part 'we are starving and need food and water'."

The sheriff described "a tactical approach for our own safety, because we had learned the occupants were most likely heavily armed and considered extremist of the Muslim belief."

A dozen officers started the "all-day" operation, discovering the two men with an AR-15 rifle, five loaded 30-round magazines and four loaded pistols, including one in Wahhaj's pocket.

Mr Hogrefe said the children were hungry, thirsty and filthy. "I've been a cop for 30 years. I've never seen anything like this. Unbelievable," he said.

"They were skinny, their ribs showed, they were in very poor hygiene and very scared."
Oil prices were trading higher on Tuesday amid expectations that US sanctions on major exporter Iran will tighten global supply.

Brent crude oil was up 1.7% at 74.8 US dollars per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate was up 1% at 69.6 US dollars a barrel.

It came as the first wave of US sanctions against Iran officially came into effect on Tuesday, with President Donald Trump ushering them in with a characteristic tweet.

He said: The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level. Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!

Irans President Hassan Rouhani described the measures as psychological warfare which aimed to sow division among Iranians.

Hussein Sayed, chief market strategist at FXTM, said: Many investors were watching oil prices after the US reimposed sanctions on Iran.

The US aims to bring Iranian oil exports to zero by November, but, given that China, India, and the EU are opposing these sanctions, its becoming a difficult guess as to how many barrels will be off the market by then.

With global demand remaining healthy and the global heatwave increasing oil demand, I think prices will remain well-supported in the near term. However, a break above 80 US dollars needs a supply shock, but we are not there yet.

More sanctions targeting Irans oil sector and Central Bank will come into effect in November.

Many countries, including US allies in Europe as well as China and India, oppose the sanctions, but the US government said it wants as many countries as possible to stop buying Iranian oil.

The US wants to reduce the amount of revenue and hard currency going into Iran.
Paul Manaforts long-time deputy has told jurors how he spent years disguising millions of dollars in foreign income as loans to lower the former Trump campaign chairmans tax bill.

Rick Gates, the governments star witness, recounted how he and Mr Manafort used offshore shell companies and bank accounts in Cyprus to funnel the money, all while concealing the accounts and the income from the IRS.

In Cyprus, they were documented as loans. In reality, it was basically money moving between accounts, Mr Gates said during his second day of testimony in the financial fraud trial of his former boss.

Expand Close A courtroom sketch depicts former Donald Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort (Dana Verkouteren/AP) / Facebook

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Prosecutors summoned Mr Gates, described by witnesses as Mr Manaforts right-hand man, to give jurors the first-hand account of a co-conspirator they say helped Mr Manafort carry out an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and bank fraud scheme.

Mr Manaforts defence attorneys have sought to paint Mr Gates as an embezzler, liar and the instigator of any criminal conduct. They have several times tried to impugn his credibility before the jury.

Mr Gates walked into a packed courtroom a day after he calmly acknowledged having embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from Mr Manafort and said the two had committed crimes together by stashing money in foreign bank accounts and falsifying bank loan documents.

Mr Manafort and Mr Gates were the first two people indicted in special counsel Robert Muellers investigation into potential ties between Russia and the Trump campaign.

But Mr Gates pleaded guilty months later and agreed to cooperate in Mr Muellers investigation of Mr Manafort, the only American charged by the special counsel to opt for trial instead of a guilty plea.

Mr Gates, who said he has met with the government 20 times ahead of his testimony, is expected to face a bruising cross-examination later as defence lawyers try to undercut his credibility and pin the blame on him.
The Prime Minister's Office said Modi will leave for Chennai in the morning and return by evening.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described DMK president M Karunanidhi as a deep-rooted mass leader who stood for regional aspiration and national progress and will travel to Chennai tomorrow morning to pay his last respect.

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described DMK president M Karunanidhi as a deep-rooted mass leader who stood for regional aspiration and national progress and will travel to Chennai tomorrow morning to pay his last respect.

Karunanidhi died at 6.10 pm at the age of 94 after prolonged illness. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said the DMK leader was one of the leading and longstanding politicians of our country who left a mark of his own during his long public life of about 80 years including 56 years as member of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly. The Prime Minister's Office said Modi will leave for Chennai in the morning and return by evening.

The meeting of the Union Cabinet slated for 1 pm is likely to be postponed. There is no word so far whether it will be held in the evening or on Thursday. Usually, on the demise of a big leader, the Union Cabinet passes a resolution condoling the death.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadu's voice was effectively heard," Modi said in his tweets.

He said that he had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi on several occasions and his understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out.

He was firmly committed to democratic ideals and his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered, Modi said. "We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," he said.

"My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.

The Vice President said Karunanidhi was a multifaceted personality and a gritty fighter and had overcome several challenges during his long stint in public life.

"Being a member of the state Legislative Assembly 13 times since 1957 from seven different constituencies and Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for five times speaks for his deep connect with and influence over the people of the state," Naidu said in his message.
Donald Trump tweeted that he is asking for world peace (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Donald Trump has warned countries doing business with Iran that they will not be doing business with the US.

Mr Trump also said in an early morning Twitter session that the sanctions placed back on Iran by the US were reintroduced in his pursuit for world peace.

The first set of US sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early on Tuesday under an executive order signed by Mr Trump.

They targeted financial transactions that involve US dollars, Irans automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

More US sanctions targeting Irans oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

Mr Trump tweeted: Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States.

He added: I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less!

The stiff economic sanctions ratchet up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after Mr Trump pulled the US out of the international accord limiting Irans nuclear activities.

Mr Trump declared the landmark 2015 agreement had been horrible, leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

The United States is working with allies to pressure the Iranian regime and achieve an agreement that denies all paths to a nuclear weapon.https://t.co/YQtmSA9hZX pic.twitter.com/qIUskRMfMC  The White House 45 Archived (@WhiteHouse45) August 6, 2018

Iran accused the US of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by the Obama administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest. European allies said they deeply regret the US action.

As the sanctions loomed, Mr Trump said in a statement: We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilising behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

Mr Trump warned that those who dont wind down their economic ties to Iran risk severe consequences.

Despite Mr Trumps claims, the accord is working and delivering on its goal of limiting Irans nuclear programme, said a statement by European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

The ministers said the Iran deal is crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world, and the European Union issued a blocking statute on Monday to protect European businesses from the impact of the sanctions.

A senior administration official, briefing reporters under ground rules requiring anonymity, said the United States is not particularly concerned by EU efforts to protect European firms from the sanctions.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran can still rely on China and Russia to keep its oil and banking sectors afloat. Speaking in a television interview, he also demanded compensation for decades of American intervention in the Islamic Republic.

Expand Close Iranian president Hassan Rouhani struck a hard line as the US restored some sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal (Iranian Presidency Office via AP) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Iranian president Hassan Rouhani struck a hard line as the US restored some sanctions that had been lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal (Iranian Presidency Office via AP)

Months of uncertainty surrounding the sanctions have already further hurt Irans economy. The countrys rial currency has tanked, and the downturn has sparked protests across the nation.

The Trump Administration wants the world to believe its concerned about the Iranian people, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a statement posted to Twitter. But, he said, the reimposed sanctions would endanger ordinary Iranians.

US hypocrisy knows no bounds, he said.

US officials insisted the American government stands with the people of Iran and supports many of their complaints against their own government.
Wildfire outside the village of Monchique, in southern Portugals Algarve region (AP Photo/Javier Fergo)

More than a thousand firefighters supported by 19 aircraft have been battling a major wildfire in southern Portugal for a fifth straight day.

Authorities had hoped lower overnight temperatures would allow services to finally contain the blaze, which was 95% under control on Monday.

But officials blamed its continuing spread on strong, gusting winds fuelling the flames, which are racing through dry and largely inaccessible woodland.

The fire came within 500 metres of the fire department in Monchique, a town of 2,000 people about 155 miles south of Lisbon, as officials evacuated scores of houses.

Expand Close Firefighters are still battling the wildfires (AP Photo/Javier Fergo) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Firefighters are still battling the wildfires (AP Photo/Javier Fergo)

Emergency services say 29 people have been hurt in the wildfire.

An unknown number of homes  believed to number in the dozens, according to local reports  located in the forested hills have burned down.

The firefighting effort drew criticism, with some claiming poor organisation is thwarting the operation. Monchique was identified as a high risk area months ago.

Firefighting is co-ordinated by the Civil Protection Agency, a government body overseen by the Ministry for the Interior, which oversees national defence.

The National Association of Professional Firemen and the Professional Firemens Trade Union issued a joint statement saying that the governments recent reorganisation of firefighting capabilities need to be reassessed and rethought. The organisations asked for a very urgent meeting with the minister of the interior.

Expand Close Authorities had hoped lower overnight temperatures would allow services to finally contain the blaze (AP Photo/Javier Fergo) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Authorities had hoped lower overnight temperatures would allow services to finally contain the blaze (AP Photo/Javier Fergo)

Portugal beefed up its wildfire response over the winter after 109 people died last year in forest blazes amid a severe drought.

Vitor Vaz Pinto, the Civil Protection Agencys district commander, said the weather forecast around Monchique was unfavourable, with a gusting wind from the north, known as a nortada.

Temperatures were forecast to reach 35C (95F)  normal for August in southern Portugal.

The Iberian peninsula endured some record heat last weekend, with temperatures exceeding 45C (113F), which parched large areas.

Spanish emergency services are fighting a wildfire near Valencia, on the Mediterranean coast, with almost two dozen aircraft.

The high temperatures moved northward to France. The hottest weather was expected in central and northeastern France, with temperatures that could reach 40C (104F).
Does the thought of doing math or giving a math text petrify you? Well, as it turns out sitting upright and facing those problems can help you deal and fare in them far better.

A change of body posture can help boost a students math scores, especially if they are known to fear the subject, found a recent study has found.

hellosehat.com

The slumped-over position shuts them down and their brains do not work as well. They cannot think as clearly, said Erik Peper, from San Francisco State University.

Slumping over is indicative of a defensive posture that can revive old memories from your body and brain, states the co-author and associate professor of Health Education Richard Harvey.

It empowers students the face the challenge called the stereotype threat, says Lauren Mason, a graduate from the San Francisco State University and an author in the paper.

Better posture helps you build a better relationship and feel more secure about doing the math. I always felt insecure about my math abilities even though I excelled at other subjects, said Mason, who helped design the experiment in the study. You build a relationship with [math] so earlyas early as elementary school. You can carry that negative self-talk throughout your life, impacting your perception of yourself, de added.

pinterest.pt

While the students without math anxiety did not report as great a benefit from better posture, they did find that doing math while slumped over was more difficult.

Researchers at San Francisco State University tested college students and found out that 56% of the students reported finding it easier to perform the math in the upright position. For people who are anxious about math, posture makes a giant difference, said Peper,

Before the study began, students filled out a questionnaire asking them to rate their anxiety levels while performing math; they also described any physical symptoms of stress they experienced during test taking.

nabludatel.bg

The findings can help people prepare for many different types of performance under stress, not just math tests, researchers said.

Athletes and public speakers can also benefit from better posture prior to and during their performance. This could be helpful to students facing the challenge called stereotype threat, said Mason.

Mason also stated that the study is indicative of the fact that how to behave during stress can improve several aspects of our life. The way we carry ourselves and interact in space influences not only how others perceive us but also how we perceive ourselves.
How guilty are we about laughing at some really dumb jokes? Secretly, a lot. No matter how bad these jokes are we end up laughing at them because, let's be honest, not all of us have a great sense of humour. For some of us, we live on poor jokes that are so bad that they are good.

Here's a lesson in mastering the art of lame jokes so you can throw them around at the next gathering:

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While serving his sentence in the 1993 blast case, Abu Salem wanted to get married and applied for a parole to tie the nuptial knot. However, former underworld don and dreaded criminal saw his plea rejected by the Bombay High Court. According to reports, Salem asked for a 45-day parole.

The Division bench of acting Chief Justice VK Tahilramani and Justice MS Sonak had observed that since Salem has been convicted on series charges of terrorism in which scores of people had lost their lives, he can't be granted parole.

BCCL

Salem wants to marry Kausar Bahar, a resident of Thane's Mumbra area. In his petition, Salem who has been lodged in jail since November 2005 had requested to be allowed to maintain family and social ties. Salem, however, didn't mention the date, he plans to get married on.

Earlier in April too, Salem had applied for the parole, but the Navi Mumbai Commissioner had also rejected his plea seeking parole to get married. The 1993 blast convict sought the parole on "humanitarian grounds" as he can't forsake his duty towards the woman whom he had promised to get married with.

afp

Salem was sentenced to life imprisonment by the special Terrorist and Disruptive Activity (TADA) Court last year for his role in the blasts in which 257 people had died leaving other 713 injured. He is also serving life-term for the murder of Mumbai builder Pradeep Jain.

Salem was extradited to India by Portugal in 2005.
Robuchon who earned the title of the 'Chef of the Century' in 1990 has mentored the famous British celebrity chef, Gordon Ramsay.

He was named chef of the century by the prestigious Gault et Millau restaurant guide in 1990 and was awarded 32 Michelin stars.

Washington DC: French culinary genius Joel Robuchon passed away on Monday at the age of 73.

Robuchon died of cancer, reported Fox news quoting a French daily.

Robuchon who earned the title of the 'Chef of the Century' in 1990 has mentored the famous British celebrity chef, Gordon Ramsay, with whom he worked in Paris.

In a conversation with The Daily Telegraph in 2013, Robuchon had revealed that Ramsay was the only person he had ever thrown a plate at:

Recalling the incident he said that the dish was a langoustine ravioli. Gordon had not properly made it an don being reprimanded had reacted in an arrogant manner. At the end of every service, Ramsay would fling his pan down on the stove and threaten to resign, Once it got too much for Robuchon and he threy a plate at him.

He trained and mentored some of the best-known other contemporary chefs as well, including Michael Caines and Eric Ripert.

He was named chef of the century by the prestigious Gault et Millau restaurant guide in 1990 and was awarded 32 Michelin stars across his restaurant empire in total.

Talking about his culinary skills, his mashed potatoes dish was a hit in his restaurants based in Paris, Monaco, Las Vegas, Tokyo, Bangkok and Hong Kong.

However, his pommes puree recipe is considered to be the most complicated and is made with just four ingredients, ratte potatoes, milk, butter and salt.

His death comes after American celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain died on June 08, renowned for his award-winning travel and food series "Parts Unknown". Bourdain was also recognised as an advocate for the marginalized and campaigned for safer working conditions for restaurant staffs.
India has lost a veteran leader. Five-time chief minister of Tamil Nadu and president of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) Muthuvel Karunanidhi has died in Kauvery Hospital, in Chennai at 6.10pm this evening. He was 94.

Karunanidhi was hailed as a champion of Tamil language, known for the books novels and dialogues for plays and movies he authored. He a towering political leader who never lost an election in a career spanning six decades.

Reuters

According to reports, he was suffering from a urinary tract infection and other age-related ailments. He was admitted to the intensive care unit of Kauvery Hospital in the early hours of July 28 after his blood pressure dropped.

Press release from Kauvery Hospital - Admin pic.twitter.com/o52AioshPR  KalaignarKarunanidhi (@kalaignar89) August 7, 2018

On July 29, the hospital said the DMK chief suffered a transient setback but was rallied back to normal. For the next one week, Karunanidhis health condition had remained stable with the hospital on July 31 saying he had responded well to treatment.

However, his health condition declined on Monday. A medical bulletin issued by Kauvery Hospital executive director Dr Aravindan Selvaraj on Monday evening said, Maintaining his organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age-related ailments. He is on continuous monitoring and being treated with active medical support. His response to the medical interventions over the next 24 hours will determine the prognosis.

According to doctors, who treated him, Karunanidhi had been following a healthy lifestyle, which included rising early, doing yoga, walking and eating simple food. He was reportedly admitted to the hospital only a couple of times until 2016.

He underwent a spinal surgery in 2009 for treatment of severe back and leg pain.

In December 2016, Karunanidhi underwent a tracheostomy, a procedure to create a space in the windpipe to optimise breathing. Doctors said the procedure helped him overcome breathing difficulties caused by a throat and lung infection. In addition, he had undergone percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, a flexible tube put through the abdominal wall into the stomach.

The tubes allowed nutrition, fluids and medications to be put directly into the stomach. For over a year, Karunanidhi rarely left home and visitors were limited.

On July 19, he was admitted to Kauvery Hospital to change the tracheotomy tube. By 4 pm the same day, he was discharged from the hospital.
An Army officer's annual confidential report (ACR) is now required to have two latest photographs of the officer. One photo is to be a side profile from head to toe while the other is to be a front profile from head to just above the knees.

This new norm is to ensure that none of the officers is carrying any extra weight, literally. For the last few years, the Army has been trying to get leaner and meaner, and sources have confirmed that now it is being far more serious on this than ever before.

In the past, foreign postings of the officers depended to a certain extent on their physical fitness. But now, sources claim, even promotions will take fitness as a criterion and overweight officers will have to get in shape for furthering their career.

bccl/representational image

"Fitness is extremely important in the armed forces and we have annual physical fitness tests to ensure that no one is lacking in this department.

Measures are being taken to have a very fit Army," an officer told TOI. On being asked if this added pressure would get in the way of daily working, Col (retd) AK Sharma said, "There is bound to be slight added pressure because the officers' promotions might be linked to their weight as well."
Talib Hussain, an activist and a key witness in the sensational Kathua case in which an eight-year-old was brutally gangraped and murdered was briefly admitted to hospital on Monday with injuries on his head. According to reports, he was allegedly tortured in police custody.

Senior Supreme Court lawyer Indira Jaising who first tweeted about the alleged assault, said Hussain's skull was broken in the incident.

Action alert

Talib Hussain - who was arrested last week - has been tortured in Samba police station while on police remand, skull broken, rushed to hospital in Samba, he is a key witness in the Kathua gang rape-murder case.

This is unacceptable in a democracy.  indira jaising (@IJaising) August 6, 2018

She also alleged that from the hospital, Hussain was sent back to the same police station and his family was not allowed to meet him.

Latest:

Talib has been sent back to the same police station in Samba where he was assaulted. Samba hospital did not allow Talibs relatives to meet him there. Relatives saw him at the police station. Head was bandaged, bleeding.

No further info as of now. https://t.co/B3JwiisqOL  indira jaising (@IJaising) August 6, 2018

Following the incident, Hussain has been booked for attempting suicide in jail.

According to the Samba Police, Hussain was booked under Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code after he injured himself by hitting his forehead on the prison wall repeatedly.

He was arrested last week on a rape complaint filed by the relative of his estranged wife, and has been in police custody since Thursday. He is also facing a separate domestic violence case against him filed by his estranged wife.

Hussain who belongs the Bakerwal community, a nomadic tribe in Kashmir had gained prominence after he led the campaign seeking justice for an eight-year-old girl from Kathua who was gangraped and murded in January.

BCCL

According to activists, the girl who also belongs to the Bakerwal community was targeted to scare and drive out Muslims from the area.

The girl was abducted when she had gone out to graze horses. She was allegedly kept confined for days, drugged and raped before she was murdered.

BCCL

The incident triggered a massive controversy in April after charges were filed against the seven accused including a minor. Some Hindutva groups holding the national flag marched in support of the rapists, even two state minister from BJP who were a part of the then ruling coalition attended the protests.
The son of slain Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden has married the daughter of one of the lead hijacker and one of the ringleaders in September 2001 attacks in the US, Mohammad Atta.

The marriage was confirmed by Osama bin Laden's half-brothers -- Ahmad and Hassan al-Attas -- during an interview with the Guardian.

afp

"We have heard he has married the daughter of Mohammed Atta," Ahmad al-Attas told the daily. "We're not sure where he is, but it could be Afghanistan." The brothers said they believed Hamza had taken a senior position within Al Qaida and was aiming to avenge the death of his father who was shot dead during a US military raid in Pakistan's Abbottabad town on May 2, 2011.

Hamza is the son of one of Osama bin Laden's three surviving wives, Khairiah Sabar, who was living with her husband in Abbottabad when he was killed. He has since made public statements urging followers to wage war on the US, the UK, France and Israel and is seen as a deputy to the terrorist group's incumbent leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri, reported news agency IANS.

afp

Western intelligence agencies have been increasingly focusing on Hamza's whereabouts over the past two years as letters allegedly written by Bin Laden that were seized from the compound suggest he would be the next to replace him. Another of Bin Laden's sons, Khalid, was killed in the Abbottabad raid. A third, Saad, was killed in a drone strike in Afghanistan in 2009.

The late militant leader's wives and surviving children have returned to Saudi Arabia, where they were given refuge by the former Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef. The women and children remain in close contact with Osama bin Laden's mother, Alia Ghanem, who told the Guardian in a recent interview that she remained in regular touch with surviving family members.

Here is how Twitter reacted on this news

I understand her. For us Bin Laden is a terrorist, but for her it was her son! and nobody is born bad. Not surprising that the mother also remembers his good sides #OsamabinLaden  Bernice (@Bernice_) August 3, 2018

Osama bin Laden's son, Hamza bin Laden, married the daughter of Mohammed Atta, one of the 9/11 hijackers.

Hamza has publicly urged followers to wage war on DC, London, Paris & Tel Aviv & is seen as a deputy to al Qaeda's leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri.https://t.co/WgMIrnEUt8  Dr. Dena Grayson (@DrDenaGrayson) August 5, 2018

Wait, this is news to me!? Hamza bin Laden marrying the daughter of Mohammed Atta? Was not aware that Atta even fathered a daughter, much less when? In Afghanistan 1999/2000? Skimming through his biographical details a daughter or relationships are never mentioned #alQaida  JWF (@jwf09) August 5, 2018

I wonder where their bridal registry is...Bombs R Us? https://t.co/Sapm3ICNxn  Charles Glasser (@MediaEthicsGuy) August 6, 2018

So #BinLaden's son Hamza marries the daughter of 9-11 Hijacker Mohammed Atta. They are believed to be in Afghanistan and he is calling for war against all the usual suspects.

They deserve each other then. https://t.co/vuiNHfVoe9  Lino Miani...Unofficial  (@meanlin1) August 5, 2018

Honeymoon in the White House? https://t.co/ZBSDRnIyoP  Talkestani (@Masssoud) August 5, 2018

Like a saga of revenge from the wild west, only on steroids!

#OsamabinLadens family in first interview: Now we worry about his son#Hamza bin Laden has vowed to avenge his father, the arch #terrorist who his mother describes as a shy boy who was... https://t.co/3UfEVJg6X9  Hajh (@Hajh) August 3, 2018
Google CEO Sundar Pichai has been summoned to a meet with six US senators, over recent reports about a custom version of its search engine supposedly built for China. The project has raised a few eyebrows, as well as a few alarms.

Reports last week seemed to indicate that Google is planning a special version of its search engine for China. That wouldnt be a big deal, except that its supposedly designed to comply with the countrys censorship tactics. Now the companys CEO is being summoned in writing, with the senators saying its deeply troubling and risks making Google complicit in human rights abuses (in China).

You see, China is very rigid in its control of the Internet, essentially walling off the country from outside influence. It allows local tech companies to flourish, while also letting the regime keep a stranglehold on information and public sentiment. Back in 2010, Google refused to comply with these strong-arm tactics for ethical reasons, instead preferring to abandon the entire Chinese market. So the fact they might be changing their mind now is troubling. What has changed since 2010 to make Google comfortable cooperating with the rigorous censorship regime in China? the senators asked in their letter.

Of course, Google has yet to confirm or deny the news about the censored search engine. China, however, denies the report.

The US senators are attempting to find out the reasons behind such a move by Google, as well as which websites and searches would be blocked from the Chinese version of the search engine. In any case, aside from the implicit support of Chinas violation of peoples basic rights, this turnaround from Google would probably worry anyone in the aftermath of Facebooks various antics recently. Given that censorship is an especially a hot-button topic right now, Pichai probably has a lot to answer for.
Wheat Market at New Highs Barchart - Thu Oct 28, 11:48AM CDT The wheat rally continues to set new highs, with Thursdays rally led by MPLS futures. HRS prices are 5 to 9 cents higher at midday. SRW is gaining 5 to 7 1/2 cents. HRW futures are fractionally mixed... ZWZ21 : 772-4s (+1.68%) ZWPAES.CM : 7.2351 (+1.78%) KEZ21 : 790-0s (+0.93%) KEPAWS.CM : 7.6829 (+0.96%) MWZ21 : 1037-4s (+1.52%)

Triple Digit Bounce Back in Hogs Barchart - Thu Oct 28, 11:48AM CDT Thursdays midday has hog futures $1.12 to $3 higher. December is leading the way, erasing the weeks earlier losses. USDAs National Average Base hog price for Thursday morning was 55 cents weaker... HEZ21 : 75.200s (+4.48%) HEJ22 : 80.525s (+2.81%) KMZ21 : 93.100 (+3.70%)

Triple Digit Rally in Cotton Barchart - Thu Oct 28, 11:48AM CDT Cotton futures are 128 to 158 points higher, extending the upswing. December is at the highest price since the $1.16 LOC high on 10/8. Cotton export bookings were reported as 360,753 RBs for the week... CTK21 : 89.48s (+3.77%) CTH22 : 111.83s (+2.94%) CTZ21 : 113.73s (+2.90%)

Corn Futures Higher at Midday Barchart - Thu Oct 28, 11:48AM CDT Corn futures are 5 3/4 to 6 cents stronger @ midday. New crop prices are also up 2 3/4 to 3 1/2 cents. Weekly Export Sales data showed 890,448 MT of corn were booked during the week that ended 10/21.... ZCZ21 : 562-6s (+0.99%) ZCPAUS.CM : 5.4323 (+1.03%) ZCH22 : 571-2s (+0.93%) ZCZ21 : 562-6s (+0.99%)

Cattle Prices Red for Thursday Barchart - Thu Oct 28, 11:48AM CDT So far live cattle futures are trading 35 to 70 cents in the red, post COF report strength may have run its course. USDA mentioned the bulk of KS sales were $126, with $126-$127 in the WCB and $127-$128... LEV21 : 124.500s (-2.14%) LEG22 : 135.750s (-0.88%) GFV21 : 156.675s (+0.11%) GFX21 : 157.650s (-0.52%)

Merck envisions billions from COVID-19 treatment sales AP - Thu Oct 28, 11:27AM CDT Merck fell out of the race to develop COVID-19 vaccines earlier this year but could vault to head of the pack for treatments in 2022. $SPX : 4,585.57 (+0.74%) $DOWI : 35,631.95 (+0.40%) $IUXX : 15,744.81 (+0.94%)

Coffee Continues to Fall Back After Tuesday's Rally Barchart - Thu Oct 28, 10:48AM CDT Dec arabica coffee (KCZ21 ) today are down -1.60 (-0.79%), and Nov ICE Robusta coffee (RMX21 ) is down -9 (-0.40%). Coffee prices today are falling for a second day on long liquidation pressure after Tuesday's... KCZ21 : 199.95s (-0.70%) RMF22 : 2,177s (-0.91%) ^USDBRL : 5.62574 (+1.56%)
German media reports say elderly duo had to be picked up by police after sneaking out of their nursing home to attend metal music festival.

Report says that staff at the home in northern Germany raised the alarm after the men went missing on Friday night. (Photo: Pixabay)

In what can only be termed as being true metal heads, two elderly men escaped their nursing home to go to a heavy metal music festival.

According to German media reports, the elderly duo had to be picked up by police after sneaking out of their nursing home to attend the metal music festival.

A MailOnline report says that staff at the home in northern Germany raised the alarm after the men went missing on Friday night.

Followinga frantic search, police found the metal-heads dazed and disoriented at 3am in the grounds of Wacken Open Air, which is termed as the worlds biggest heavy metal festival.

The men refused to leave so had to be escorted back to their nursing home in a taxi with a patrol car following, reported Deutsche Welle.

A police spokesperson told Merle Neufel, They obviously liked the metal festivalThe care home quickly organised a return transport after police picked them up.

Waken Open Air festival attracts more than 75,000 people each year.

Headline acts for this years festival included Judas Priest, Danzig and Hatebreed and organisers had arranged for a 7km pipeline to deliver thousands of litres of beer to avoid the need for trucks which wreck the ground and cause traffic.
The industry veteran sits on 23 years of experience across Fortune 100 firms, with a particular focus on the property-casualty business. He was most recently with Zurich Insurance Group as group controller based in Zurich, Switzerland. Wismer also spent nine years at Liberty Mutual, where he was senior vice president & chief financial officer for Liberty International.

Jons more than 23 years of financial experience and leadership roles within the insurance and reinsurance industry, together with his extensive international experience, will provide valuable perspective to the company. He will play an integral role within the finance team as we support AIGs overall goal of delivering sustainable, profitable growth, said Sankaran.

Wismer holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Texas Christian University, and attended the Insurance Executive Development Program at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

This is an exciting time to join the finance leadership team at AIG, and I look forward to continuing the important work of this group in serving the companys businesses and stakeholders while advancing shareholder value, said Wismer.

Related stories:

AIG notes underwriting income loss in general insurance

Liberty Specialty Markets picks up AIG hires
Under the $70.1 million plan, ASIC will embed its staff in the big four banks and wealth manager AMP, set up a taskforce to identify and pursue failings inside large listed companies, and conduct on-site surveillance and investigations of those companies, as part of the organisations refocus on proactive enforcement under new ASIC chairman James Shipton, The Guardian reported.

Shipton assumed the top role at ASIC in February, replacing Greg Medcraft.

The ASIC package follows the $121.3 million funding boost promised to the regulator in 2016.

ODwyer said the funding would ensure that ASIC is on the front foot when it comes to considering any deficiencies in the governance and compliance structures of these large financial institutions, so as to prevent harm to consumers before it occurs, The Guardian reported.
The inaugural Women in Insurance Summit has brought together over 200 professionals from across the industry today as key speakers discuss a range of topical issues.

Currently being held at the InterContinental in Sydney, the event features senior figures from QBE, NIB and Chubb, among many more.
Blends insurance arm will get an initial boost from a partnership with major insurer MetLife. It will also seek to leverage partnerships with large insurers to scale its business by pairing the offerings, Bloomberg reported. The platform will also partner with five other firms at the start, with the potential for more.

Blend is the type of partner that we are looking for because our visions are very aligned, said Kevin Chean, vice president of group auto and home at MetLife, as quoted in the report. They are used to doing more and more of their shopping online.

Blends new division will be led by Greg Isaacs, with a team of some 20 employees. For the consumer, insurance is a major piece of getting your mortgage and purchasing your home, said Greg Isaacs, as quoted by Bloomberg. The home purchase and mortgage process is complicated and stressful, and insurance is often an overlooked piece of that.

Blend was founded in 2012 by a group of former Palantir engineers, and has since grown to about 300 full-time employees across the country. It is based in San Francisco, and has another office in the same city, and New York.
For the vast majority of Americans, its really unfortunate that the Senate and the House have reauthorized the NFIP without any meaningful reforms, said Craig Poulton, CEO of Salt Lake City, Utah-based Poulton Associates Inc., a firm making waves in the private flood insurance market.

A key roadblock to flood insurance reforms, according to Poulton, is the lack of clarity among lending regulators around how they interpret the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 in terms of their positions towards flood insurance requirements around mortgages. Poulton accused lending regulators of acting like insurance regulators, which he said is not fair on the homeowner.

We also have three states [New York, New Jersey and Louisiana] whose congressional delegations believe that the inefficient NFIP delivers more benefits to their constituents in their states than an efficient, private mechanism would  which is illogical and demonstrably false, Poulton told Insurance Business.

For some reason, they continue to sing that song that the NFIP needs to remain unchanged. They want us to continue rebuilding repetitive loss properties for homes that should never have been built where they are in the first place  homes that were only built where they are because the NFIP facilitated them.

Strife in the flawed flood insurance program has opened the door wide for a competitive private flood insurance market. While the federal lending regulators have been waiting to implement new regulation, private flood has quietly picked up traction. Private flood now accounts for about 8% of all flood insurance (including commercial & excess flood) policies in the US.

Another problem with the NFIP is that the program over-charges half of its customers and under-charges the other half. The rates are almost never calculated as an actuarily correlated premium to risk, Poulton added. Because theyre so wildly inaccurate in what they charge people, it opens the door for private insurers to identify the folks who are being over-charged and offer them a lower price.

By and large, if you truly understand the metrics and the realities of underwriting flood insurance, its very easy to give people a lower price for a better policy. The private flood market has benefited tremendously from the standstill in regulatory action over the last six years. Frankly, I think the regulators are getting it wrong because they dont fully understand flood insurance.

Related stories:

Reaction to seventh short-term NFIP extension

NFIP reforms: Right idea, wrong timing?
Central Oklahoma residents wont get a trial this fall for a case against an oil company accused of triggering earthquakes that damaged homes and buildings.

A Cleveland County judge has outlined rules for the class-action case that Jennifer Lin Cooper brought against New Dominion LLC. The judge issued a journal entry July 13 on the limited class certification, which allows the defendant to begin an appeal process.

The lawsuit alleges that New Dominions wastewater disposal operations caused a swarm of earthquakes in November 2011, including a magnitude 5.7 quake in Prague that affected more than 170 homes.

A trial was initially scheduled for September, but Cooper had told the judge earlier shed agree to remove the trial if her case was certified.

Cooper, of Prague, filed the suit against Tulsa-based New Dominion and Spess Oil Co. of Cleveland, Okla., along with 25 unnamed companies in February 2015. She sought class-action status for people in Lincoln County and eight surrounding counties whose homes were damaged by earthquakes.

Thousands of earthquakes have been recorded in Oklahoma in recent years, with many linked to the underground injection of wastewater from oil and natural gas production.

Oklahoma has had six quakes of at least magnitude 4.0 halfway through this year, which is one more than all of last year. A magnitude 4.6 quake in April near Perry was the 12th largest in state history.

The overall rate of earthquakes has declined, however, with 96 quakes of magnitude 3.0 or greater through June 30, compared with 144 at this point last year and 302 by the end of 2017.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Catastrophe Natural Disasters Oklahoma Earthquake
The director of the Hopkinton Town Library in New Hampshire says damage caused by a lightning strike is mindboggling.

Donna Dunlop said almost the entire inventory of books must be replaced because of fire, smoke and water damage Friday night.

The Concord Monitor reports that its unclear how long the building will be out of commission.

Dunlop was working when lightning struck. The next morning, she was there to monitor the cleanup crew and intercept unaware patrons.

Hopkinton residents have always supported their library, and many said this time will be no different.

Library President Amy OBrien said funds will be raised for repairs and books. She said, Well have to start from scratch.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Monastery is currently occupied by 20 monks in saffron robes and shaved heads, staging festivals and welcoming trickle of intrepid visitors.

The monks and residents of the nearby village of Komik, said to be Asia's highest, are already feverishly preparing for winter, stocking up on food and fuel, drying vegetables -- and praying. (Photo: AFP)

Komik: Some 5,500 metres (18,000 feet) above sea level in the Indian Himalayas sits the Tnagyud Gompa Buddhist monastery, where snow can leave the monks in complete isolation for seven months a year.

The monks and residents of the nearby village of Komik, said to be Asia's highest, are already feverishly preparing for winter, stocking up on food and fuel, drying vegetables -- and praying.

"These are some of the busiest months as the permanent occupants follow a strict regime of Buddhist prayers, daily chores, preparation for winter months and study of the holy texts," said Perma Sandrup, the monastery's secretary.

"Typically, in our monastery the lamas pray at least two times each day. During summer retreat, which is around one and a half months, they pray the whole day," Sandrup told AFP.

The monastery is currently occupied by around 20 monks in their saffron robes and shaved heads, staging festivals and welcoming a trickle of intrepid visitors -- but when the snows come only around a dozen will remain.

Many monks and followers came to the region after Tibet came under Chinese rule almost 50 years ago.

But life at the Komik monastery, which is over 500 years old, and the surrounding area dotted with villages has also been affected by climate change.

Snowfall has been unpredictable in recent years, and any change in the amount of snow affects the fragile ecosystem, especially the water availability in summer.

"Last year we had almost negligible snowfall, which affected most of the remote farming communities in the region who grow peas and potatoes," Sandrup said.

"This is something that most affects the lives of the people and the monks (who have been) living at these monasteries for hundreds of years," he added.

While local residents want more tourists and better infrastructure -- especially medical facilities -- they are also holding out hope those in power can make progress combating climate change.
Bermuda-based Nephila Capital announced that the Lloyds Board (previously called the Franchise Board) has given in principle approval to Nephilas plan to form its own managing agency, subject to regulatory authorization.

Nephila is the largest institutional asset manager of vehicles dedicated to investing in natural catastrophe and weather risk. Nephilas Syndicate 2357, which is backed by funds managed by Nephila, has been managed by Asta, the leading third party syndicate manager at Lloyds, since its inception in 2013.

Nephila Syndicate Management Ltd. (NSM) will submit an application to UK regulators, the Prudential Regulation Authority and the Financial Conduct Authority, now that Lloyds has given approval to proceed with the project. NSM expects to assume the management of Syndicate 2357 in mid-2019 on receipt of formal authorization.

The syndicate, which has stamp capacity of 365 million ($473 million) for the 2018 year of account, is wholly supported by investment funds managed by Nephila Capital and writes property/catastrophe reinsurance, U.S. insurance and weather risk business.

Adam Beatty, currently the active underwriter of Syndicate 2357, will assume the role of chief executive officer of NSM, effective immediately.

NSM also announced several key senior hires. Gina Butterworth joined in June as director of Underwriting. She was previously director of Underwriting at ERS and spent many years in senior roles at Chaucer. She will also succeed Beatty as active underwriter of the syndicate, effective Jan. 1, 2019. Irfan Haq will join in October as director of Finance and Operations. Haq joins from Occam Underwriting where he was CFO and has previous senior Lloyds market finance experience from his seven years at CNA Hardy.

Charity Bare joined in May to assume the role of director of Risk and Compliance. Bare was previously head of Risk at Talbot Underwriting and worked in a risk management role at Brit Insurance prior to that. Sam Drysdale joins in September as head of Claims. Drysdale recently held the same role at Fidelis and worked in claims at Renaissance Re Syndicate Management before that. Salil Parkash will transfer from Nephilas technology team to take on the role of head of IT for NSM. Parkash joined the company in August 2015 and previously worked at Commerzbank.

We are excited about this new phase in the development of Nephilas business at Lloyds. Over the last five years the syndicate has grown into a significant underwriting platform for Nephilas funds. We are particularly delighted with the quality of the team we have been able to attract to Nephila to manage the new agency and all of us at Nephila look forward to working with them, said Beatty.

Frank Majors, co-founder and co-CEO of Nephila Capital, said: We consider our Lloyds business an important strategic initiative for Nephila. We have been fortunate to work with Asta these last five years and benefited enormously from their expertise and experience. We are now focused on supporting Adams efforts to create further opportunities for Nephila in this key market.

An investment manager specializing in reinsurance risk, Nephila Capital offers investment products using instruments such as insurance-linked securities, catastrophe bonds, insurance swaps and weather derivatives. Nephila has assets under management of approximately $12.2 billion as of Aug. 1, 2018 and has been managing institutional assets since it was founded in 1998. The firm has over 125 employees working at its four offices in Bermuda, San Francisco, Nashville and London.

Source: Nephila Capital Ltd.

Topics Excess Surplus Talent Underwriting Lloyd's Human Resources
Is a no-deal Brexit becoming more likely? U.K. Trade Secretary Liam Fox puts the chances at 60 percent. And while Theresa May sees that as an overestimate, her office has been careful not to dispute Foxs argument that talks could collapse if the European Union doesnt give ground.

The prime minister has stressed on a number of occasions the importance of being pragmatic and practical in the negotiations, Mays spokesman, James Slack, told reporters on Monday. He also referred to a February speech in Munich, in which May warned EU leaders not to allow rigid institutional restrictions or deep-seated ideology to inhibit our cooperation.

The government is at least partly motivated by trying to avoid public divisions over Brexit, especially on subjects as unknowable as whether talks will fail. But theres another reason why Mays office is relaxed at the prospects of a no-deal Brexit being talked up: The more people think about the implications of crashing out of the EU, the easier it is to get them to support a compromise.

The government forcing people to think about it now ultimately strengthens their hands, said Sam Lowe, senior research fellow at the Center for European Reform in London. It means thought is put into why pursuing such an outcome is foolhardy.

Compromise

Discussing the pitfalls of not doing a deal could help May paint internal critics as extremists and herself as a champion of pragmatic compromise, especially as some opposition Labour Party lawmakers are now also thinking about supporting the agreement May brings back from Brussels if it would help the economy.

It may also help persuade the EU to give some of the ground Fox called for.

Slack described Mays Brexit proposal last month as a significant move to which EU countries need to respond. The message to Brussels is that May has spent significant political capital, and cant go further without a reciprocal shift from the bloc. The resignations of two key ministers help to make that case  but so does an increase in British chatter about talks collapsing.

Thats not to say Fox was doing Mays bidding. One government official pointed out that others have offered views on the odds of no deal, and Fox had simply been doing the same. Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said last week the U.K. was heading for no deal by accident, while Bank of England Governor Mark Carney said the chances were uncomfortably high.

Comfortable

Unlike those two, Fox campaigned for Brexit and is instinctively more comfortable with the prospect of leaving the bloc without an agreement  something that could also be coloring his assessment.

If it is Mays strategy to use such voices to her advantage, its a difficult one to get right without alienating the Brexiteers in her Conservative Party. Though theyve spent months calling for her to walk away from negotiations, theyre now alarmed that Mays plan to publish advice on how to prepare for that scenario could make no deal look like a bad idea.

Part of the problem is that no deal means different things to different people, though most assume there would be agreements to ensure planes continue to fly between the EU and the U.K., for example, and that citizens rights would be taken care of.

But as May herself observed in June, even achieving that would require extensive discussions conducted in the wake of an acrimonious collapse of the main Brexit talks. All the signs point to her trying to create the conditions for a deal  both at home and abroad.

Related:

Copyright 2021 Bloomberg.

Topics Europe Uk Brexit
The chief executive of Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited described business changes to Aspens Lloyds insurance book last week, while neither unequivocally confirming or denying rumors that a deal to sell the entire company is imminent.

We have a very good business with significant upside potential and we are actively and aggressively executing our plans to deliver improved results, said Chris OKane during a second-quarter earnings conference call. He went on to outline plans that include exiting lines like marine hull and professional indemnity at Lloyds and outsourcing some job functions throughout the company.

Focusing on operating income of $56.3 million for the second quarter, rather than a bottom-line net loss of $14.7 million that was complicated by the noise of investment and foreign exchange losses, OKane said the operating result was testament to a tremendous amount of work being done at Aspen to enhance both financial and operational performance.

Our board, our leadership team and our employees right across the company are enthusiastically committed to delivering strong results and creating shareholder value, said OKane in prepared remarks.

He continued by repeating a message he delivered on the first-quarter earnings call. Our board is very open minded. All options remain on the table [for] preserving and creating shareholder value, he said. Those statements have always been true, are still true and very much on the forefront of our minds, he said, committing to inform shareholders and analysts when a material change occurs.

In spite of the fact that OKane said he would not comment on those matters any further during the call, the first analyst to pose a question, perhaps motivated by the amount of time OKane devoted to detailing line-by-line hits and misses and improvement plans, asked whether the board might envision the possibility of a standalone Aspen continuing to exist.

OKane reiterated his prior statement. The board is open minded. It should be open minded and what we are evaluating is what is the best course of action for our shareholders in creating and preserving value. What our particular course is ranging from a sale to continuing independent [among options] is an open question.

I cant rule in or rule out anything, he said.

Were still looking at that. It wont take forever, he said, promising to address the issue again relatively soon.

How soon? the analyst pressed.

I think Ive been purposely vague. Im not going to help you any further with it, OKane replied.

Whats In, Whats Out

OKane was more direct about targeted lines of business for Aspen and lines that are set to be discontinued at Lloyds.

While net written premium fell 16 percent to $486.0 million in the second quarter, the CEO noted an 8.5 percent jump in gross premiums for the insurance book to $527.8 million, and highlighted 15 percent growth in gross premiums and an accident year loss ratio of 55 for targeted lines of accident and health, excess casualty, environmental, professional and related lines. (Net premiums declined primarily from the use of quota share reinsurance, the company said in a media statement.)

Also noting signs of improvement in Aspens U.S. property and onshore energy books after some earlier remedial actions, OKane turned his attention to the Lloyds insurance book, which he said represents over one-quarter of insurance segment premium. This part of our business has a five-year average loss ratio of 62the same as the second quarter. This is good but we need it to be better.

To make it better, Aspen will grow the best performing business lines but will no longer underwrite disappointing areas, specifically, international, professional indemnity, marine hull. Later in the call, OKane also specifically noted that aviation at Lloyds is on the chopping block. But the company will allocate more capital to extremely valuable lines like cyber, transaction liability, financial institutions and management liability, as well as some broader marine lines. (See related article, As Underwriting Pain Increases, Insurers Pull Back from Underperforming Lines.)

At several points during the call, OKane called out professional and related liability lines as a growth area for the companyin the U.S. and internationally. He specifically noted the track record of leader Bruce Eisler in the United States, where growth is roughly 14 percent annually and the combined ratio has been around 80 for the last five years.

Aspen also writes reinsurance, which had single-digit declines in gross and net premiums in the quarter. In reinsurance, OKane noted that the underwriting team has been disciplined, making adjustments where the market is uncooperativefor example, in areas of specialty reinsurance like trade credit where underlying business is good but ceding commissions are just too high. At one point during the call, he also explained why Aspens reinsurance book had not suffered from unfavorable developments related to Hurricane Irma that other reinsurers experienced.

Meaningful Workforce Cuts Ahead

While it remained unclear whether the second-quarter earnings call might be OKanes last in the role of CEO of a standalone Aspen, analysts repeatedly asked about the impact of market rumors on the workforce. OKane provided his reflections, also revealing that outsourcing of some functions could have a greater impact next year.

Responding to an analyst who asked OKane to compare the current employee count to a figure of 1,300 that he read in Aspens 2017 10-K filing, the CEO said it is roughly the same today. Clearly in most cases, when people leave in an unplanned way, you go and replace them. Given the cost-conscious environment, I sign off on every new employee, and Ive got to say Im a bit busier than I would like to be in that regard, OKane reported. Maybe a week goes by, but never two weeks that there isnt 10-15 people, he said. (OKane also noted that Aspen had 200-300 more employees in 2016 when it sold a crop insurance business, AgriLogic, as year-end 2017.)

While the headcount is stable now, OKane said a gradual program of making ourselves more efficientgetting more done with fewer people in the organization and outsourcing more functions will have an impact on the workforce numbers going forward. That hasnt really begun to bite yet. Were just at the beginning really in the last few weeks. Going forward, you would find a meaningful reduction to that 1,300if were talking this time next year, something in the range of 10-20 percent would not be inconceivable, OKane estimated.

Addressing questions about unplanned departures, OKane said that while some key people had left, hes not concerned about the companys ability to meet the needs of clients and brokers in any lines of business. Theres nothing that makes me uncomfortable, he said.

OKane began his remarks on this topic by describing a planned workforce streamlining or efficiency program last year.

Those are the polite words for saying that when [youve got] too many senior people doing similar jobs, then you can take some of them out, have a longer span of control and take out some expensive head count. And we did some of that, he said. So, some good people left.

He also noted that each individual underwriting team had a sort of mini-operational hub within it. So, in the name of efficiency, Aspen is not leaning to building bigger hubs.

Moving from targeted reductions to other situationslike instances where people say, Well, you might have moved my job on, so Im going to move myself, OKane admitted, We have had some of that.

Mostly, we identified the people that we regarded as valuable, we maybe put some retention payments around that, and I think weve limited that damage to the extent it could be limited.

It cant always be, however.

Theres another set of factors from the news feed that we have had in the last few months, he said, referring to the fact that competitors have started calling some of Aspens underwriters and actuaries to entice them to jump ship as rumors of a potential sale heated up. I dont blame them at all for this, he said of the competition. And whereas a year or so ago, [targeted employees] would have said, No, Im very happy at Aspen, they now would say, Im very happy at Aspen but. We have had a few of those.

Still, OKane said, There isnt a single situation where I think we lack the underwriting ability to be a serious and effective player in what we do.

He continued: In areas like property treaty or offshore energy, weve seen some good people go. Ive been sorry to see them go. I think they remain friends of Aspen. I like to think some of them remain friends of mine, he said.

Thoughtful succession planning has helped, he suggested, noting the strength and depth to promote from within, leaving only one or two situations where new underwriter replacements needed to be hired.

If you look at an increase in attrition rates among key people, its up a little bit year on year. And if you sort of laser focus within that, youre down to a handfulfive or six people [where I have thought] I really wish they were still here, OKane said.

Addressing the analysts concern head on, he explained that workforce changes havent impacted business. As of this morning, I can tell you that every single reinsurance client that we started this year with is still a reinsurance client. And on the insurance side, we have a growth rate actually better than weve had for a couple of years. We reduced our growth rate two years ago because we wanted to reposition the book, and insurance had been down. Weve now got a lot of good people doing a lot of good work, and were doing a lot more business.

If you look at the hard numbers, it looks pretty good. Overall, Id give us an A+ but maybe not an A++, he said.

This article first appeared in Insurance Journals sister publication, Carrier Management.

Related:

Topics USA Excess Surplus Underwriting Reinsurance Lloyd's
Ironshores Construction Industry group, in conjunction with Ironshore Specialty Casualty, has enhanced its coverage for designers and contractors. The specialty program offers contractors pollution liability on an occurrence basis within its combination policy covering contractors liability, contractors pollution liability and pollution mitigation.

Ironshores newly revised designers and contractors professional & pollution (DCP2) liability form provides claims-made third-party professional liability protection against damages related to contractors negligence in the performance of professional services. Rectification costs for design defects and protective indemnity for sub-consultant design professionals negligence also are available in the coverage.

The contractors pollution liability coverage part responds to job-site incidents and transportation losses that occur during the policy period, while the non-owned disposal site and insureds site coverages continue to be underwritten on a claims-made basis. The pollution mitigation reimbursement extension for the costs of disciplinary proceedings and mediation incentive actions remain in effect.

Ironshores Construction Industry group provides customized specialty lines coverages, including surety, builders risk, professional liability, environmental, stand-alone terrorism and general/excess liability, as well as wrap-up insurance, among other sector risks. Ironshore offers a full suite of products for all types of construction projects and delivery methods.

Ironshore, a Liberty Mutual Company, provides broker-sourced specialty property and casualty insurance coverages for varying risks located throughout the world. Select specialty coverages are underwritten at Lloyds through Ironshores Pembroke Syndicate 4000, which operates within Lloyds.

Topics Excess Surplus Pollution Contractors
Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway Inc. gave him more leeway to make stock buybacks last month. Now, after the company said its cash pile has swelled to $111 billion, some investors are wondering when they might reap the benefits.

Berkshires second-quarter results released Saturday didnt detail how many shares it was willing to repurchase, or at what price. But investors do know that the window is open: Last month, the company said it wouldnt initiate buybacks until second-quarter earnings were made public.

The catch for some analysts is that the strength of the quarterly performance could make the shares too expensive. Berkshires Class A shares rose 3 percent to $313,700 at 9:53 a.m. Monday [Aug. 6] in New York. Under the buyback plan, both Buffett, whos chairman and chief executive officer, and Vice Chairman Charles Munger have to find the price below Berkshires intrinsic value, conservatively determined, the company said last month.

The market believes they have the willingness and the ability to buy back stock, Jim Shanahan, an analyst at Edward Jones, said in a phone interview. Its possible that the stock just moves higher and the buyback opportunity proves fleeting.

Buffett has historically favored investing in companies and snapping up businesses such as railroads and insurers to expand his Omaha, Nebraska-based conglomerate. But prices for some businesses reached all-time highs last year and created a barrier for virtually all deals that Berkshire reviewed, Buffett said February in a letter to shareholders.

Cash Mountain

At the same time, his war chest is far higher than he wants, even as Berkshire plows money into holdings such as Apple Inc. Berkshire bought $6.1 billion of equities in the second quarter, while selling or redeeming $4.77 billion, according to regulatory filings. The companys stake in Apple rose to $47.2 billion at the end of June, up from $40.7 billion at March 31, the filings show.

Even with buying a huge position in Apple, hes having a hard time deploying that cash, said Bill Smead, who oversees about $2.2 billion, including Berkshire shares, at Smead Capital Management.

Buffett has repurchased shares before, agreeing in 2012 to buy back some stock from the estate of a longtime shareholder. Under Berkshires previous buyback program, the company couldnt pay more than a 20 percent premium over book value for shares. Buffett has used book value as a rough measure of the companys intrinsic value, even though he says it understates the value. The new program eliminates that cap.

Book value, which measures assets minus liabilities, climbed to $217,677 per Class A share at the end of the second quarter, the company said Saturday. Those shares traded 40 percent above that as of Fridays close. Some investors, including Steven Check of Check Capital Management, say buybacks could begin shortly. Still, its hard to gauge how much stock the company could repurchase before the price rises, he said.

Buffett didnt respond to a request for comment left with his assistant.

Buyback Skeptic

Not all investors want Berkshire to dive in and buy its own stock. Thomas Russo, who oversees about $14 billion at Gardner Russo & Gardner, including Berkshire shares, said hed rather see Buffett wait for potential deals.

He hasnt built value by buying back stock, Russo said. Hes built value by daring, at moments when others didnt, to buy businesses that he saw had a competitive advantage that would not erode over time.

Berkshires businesses have been throwing off more cash, helped in part by a stronger U.S. economy. Operating profit surged 67 percent to $6.9 billion in the second quarter, driven by better results at the companys insurers and gains at the railroad.

Underwriting profit at Geico was more than five times the amount during the same period a year earlier. The railroad, BNSF Railway Co., benefited from an accelerating economy, and also from increased demand due to tighter trucking capacity, which has been spurred by a shortage of drivers and more scrutiny on the hours they drive.

It reminds everyone that Berkshire Hathaway is an all-in bet on the United States economy, Smead said.

Removing the cap on prices for stock buybacks doesnt mean Berkshire will stop hunting for acquisitions, according to Cathy Seifert, an analyst at CFRA Research. Still, if stock markets start falling, making Berkshire shares a more cost-effective option, the company could swoop in to repurchase stock.

If we get later in the year and we have a correction, we may see them come in, Seifert said.

Related:

Copyright 2021 Bloomberg.
American International Group, Inc. has appointed Jonathan Wismer as senior vice president, deputy chief financial officer and chief accounting officer, effective immediately.

Wismer will be based in New York and report to Sid Sankaran, executive vice president and chief financial officer. He succeeds Elias Habayeb, who was appointed chief financial officer for General Insurance in May.

Jons more than 23 years of financial experience and leadership roles within the insurance and reinsurance industry, together with his extensive international experience, will provide valuable perspective to the company. He will play an integral role within the finance team as we support AIGs overall goal of delivering sustainable, profitable growth, said Sankaran.

Wismer brings to this position a strong track record in financial leadership roles at Fortune 100 international insurance companies, with particular focus on the property/casualty business. More recently he served as group controller for Zurich Insurance Group, based in Zurich, Switzerland  a role he left in November 2017. He previously spent nine years at Liberty Mutual, culminating with his appointment as senior vice president & chief financial officer, Liberty International. He also held senior financial and regulatory reporting leadership positions at Allianz Group in Munich, Germany and previously worked at KPMG, where he began his career.

Wismer has a bachelors degree in business administration from Texas Christian University and attended the Insurance Executive Development Program at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He is a certified public accountant.

Source: American International Group (AIG)

Topics AIG
U.S. judge has determined that a lawsuit the state of Oklahoma filed against the makers of opioids does not necessarily rise to a federal issue.

The ruling by U.S. District Judge Vicki Miles-LaGrange in Oklahoma City sends the matter back to state court. Drugmakers had it moved to federal court in June.

Oklahoma, one of at least 13 states that have filed lawsuits against drugmakers, alleges fraudulent marketing of drugs that fueled the opioid epidemic in the lawsuit filed in June 2017.

Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter is seeking unspecified damages from Purdue Pharma, Allergan, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Teva Pharmaceuticals and several of their subsidiaries.

Opioid manufacturers had argued the state was asking them to make different safety and efficacy disclosures to the public than required by federal law and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The drug manufacturers listed as defendants said opioid abuse is a serious health issue, but they deny wrongdoing.

An attorney for the companies did not immediately return a phone call seeking comment.

The ruling came just minutes after Chickasaw Nation Gov. Bill Anoatubby and Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton joined Hunter and Michael Burrage, a private attorney representing the tribes and the state, in announcing that the tribes are joining the state in suing the opioid manufacturers in state courts for unspecified damages.

Hunter did not immediately return a phone call for comment, but Burrage said during the news conference that the effort to return to lawsuit to state court was to keep it from potentially being folded into more than 800 similar lawsuit pending in Ohio.

We would rather for Oklahomans to decide these cases, the states case, these tribes cases, rather than some judge in  Ohio, Burrage said.

Similar lawsuits have been filed by the Oklahoma-based Cherokee Nation, Muscogee (Creek) Nation and the Ponca Tribe.

Court records show the Muscogee and Ponca lawsuits have been moved to the federal case in Ohio while the Cherokee lawsuit was moved to federal court in eastern Oklahoma.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Legislation USA Oklahoma Ohio
The North Carolina Department of Insurance announced multiple fraud enforcement actions during the month of July.

Insurance fraud costs American consumers approximately $80 billion dollars a year. According to North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey, fraud costs North Carolinians between 15 and 20 cents of every dollar paid on insurance premiums.

I am determined to stem the tide of insurance fraud in this state in order to save residents money, said Causey. Thats why I am dedicated to the mission of our NCDOI law enforcement officers who investigate and prosecute claims of insurance and bail bonding fraud.

Details of the incidents, as reported by NCDOI, are as follows:

Monroe Man Accused of Presenting Fraudulent Auto Repair Invoice

Gary Miller of Monroe, N.C., was charged with felony insurance fraud, according to a July 3 statement from North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey.

Special agents with the N.C. Department of Insurances Criminal Investigations Division accused Miller of presenting a fraudulent invoice for auto body repair work that was never performed to Allstate Insurance Co.

The action was aimed at increasing the value of a vehicle that Miller had reported as stolen, according to the arrest warrant.

The actions occurred between Oct. 17-24, 2017, according to the warrant. Miller was arrested on May 30.

Rocky Mount Woman Charged with Felony Insurance Fraud, Making False Report

Lashunda Bobbitt of Rocky Mount, N.C., was charged with felony insurance fraud and making a false report to police, which is a misdemeanor, NCDOI reported on July 3.

According to the arrest warrant, Bobbitt is alleged to have filed a false report with Enfield police, saying that she was pulled out of the drivers seat of a stolen 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer.

Special agents with the N.C. Department of Insurances Criminal Investigations Division accuse Bobbitt of filing a fraudulent stolen vehicle claim with MetLife Auto and Home Insurance Co.

The offenses occurred in Halifax County between March 11 and May 21, according to the warrant. Bobbitt was arrested on May 31 in Halifax County and released on $5,000 unsecured bond.

Raleigh Man Arrested for Filing False Auto Claim with USAA

Clyde Lee Crawford of Raleigh was charged with felony insurance fraud and felony attempting to obtain property by false pretense, according to a July 12 statement from NCDOI.

Special agents with the NCDOI Criminal Investigations Division accuse Crawford of falsely reporting lost items to USAA Insurance in an attempt to obtain $3,109 on an auto policy.

According to the warrant, Crawford falsely reported that an iPad, a wedding band, and a USMC ring were lost.

The offense occurred between Dec. 30, 2017, and June 18, 2018. Crawford was arrested on June 19 and placed under a $6,000 secured bond.

Fayetteville Man Charged with Insurance Fraud, Identity Theft, Obtaining Property by False Pretense

Miguel Rodriguez of Fayetteville. was charged with felony insurance fraud, felony obtaining property by false pretense, and two counts of felony identity theft, NCDOI reported on July 12.

Special agents from the NCDOI Criminal Investigations Division accuse Rodriguez of falsely representing himself under the name of Nelson Lopez when filing auto accident claims. Rodriguez received two electronic checks totaling $10,931 from Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co., according to arrest warrants.

One identity theft offense occurred on July 5, 2014, while the remaining offenses occurred between March 23, 2017, and Aug. 14, 2017, according to the warrants.

Rodriguez was arrested on June 13 in Cumberland County and placed under a $12,000 secured bond.

Craven County Woman Accused of Workers Compensation Fraud

Kimberly Ann Sutton was charged with two counts of obtaining property by false pretense and two counts of workers compensation fraud in Craven County, according to a July 19 statement by NCDOI.

Fraud Investigators with the North Carolina Industrial Commission accuse Sutton of working while receiving workers compensation benefits from the State of North Carolina and failing to disclose that she was working for another employer in violation of North Carolina law.

Sutton is also accused of making misrepresentations on two North Carolina Industrial Commission Form 90s and failing to disclose she was working while receiving workers compensation benefits. As a result, Sutton is alleged to have unlawfully received $64,040 in benefits.

The New Bern Police Department served the warrants to Ms. Sutton.

The Industrial Commissions Fraud Investigative Division consists of six fraud investigators and an administrative assistant who work collectively investigating suspected workers compensation fraud and violations of the Workers Compensation Act.

To report suspected fraud, contact the N.C. Department of Insurance Criminal Investigation Division at 919-807-6840. Callers may remain anonymous. Information is also available at www.ncdoi.com.

Source: North Carolina Department of Insurance

Topics Trends Auto Workers' Compensation Fraud Abuse Molestation North Carolina
A former WWE wrestler known as Kane has won a no-holds-barred, last-man-standing round, this time in the political ring.

Glenn Jacobs went by Kane in the WWE. Now the 6-foot-8, 300-pound Republican has the title of Knox County Mayor.

Jacobs runs an insurance and real estate company, Jacobs Insurance Associates, in Knoxville, and was leading Democrat Linda Haney by a large margin with most of the votes counted on Thursday. The Knoxville News Sentinel reports Jacobs claimed victory at his watch party. He said some politicians responded with pretty resounding laughter when he announced his decision to seek the top job in Tennessees third-largest county.

Jacobs said he doesnt normally use wrestling analogies for campaigning.

But this professional wrestler got into a no-holds-barred, last-man-standing match, and when the bell rung, he was victorious, he said. We were victorious.

Jacobs follows in the footsteps of Jesse The Body Ventura, who was a professional wrestler before he was elected governor of Minnesota in 1998. Fellow wrestlers The Undertaker and Dustin Rhodes  also known as Goldust  posted photos and congratulatory messages on social media.

Jacobs won a close primary in May. Those results were delayed when the countys election-reporting website crashed after a concerted cyberattack that experts deemed malicious.

County officials said no voting data was affected, the vulnerability was fixed, and additional safeguards were put in place.

Haney ran small businesses with her husband before she retired, and was considered an underdog in the solidly Republican county.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Agencies Tennessee
The National Weather Service has issued more than double the number of tornado warnings in Wyoming so far this year than are typically issued.

The Casper Star-Tribune reported the service has issued 51 warnings in Wyoming this year. The state has received 19 warnings on average per year between 2006 and 2017.

National Weather Service meteorologist Noah Myers says the states peak tornado season runs from April through July, so the number is unlikely to climb by much.

Three tornadoes swept across Laramie County during a single weekend in May.

A twister touched down for eight minutes near Gillette in early June, and a second tornado struck north of Laramie later that month.

Another tornado touched down south of Douglas on Saturday.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Windstorm
The stir has been going on since a month, which erupted in violence and suicide incidents.

Mumbai: In a significant development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi intervened in the issue related to the grant of reservations to the Maratha and Dhangar communities and took stock of the situation in Maharashtra from CM Devendra Fadnavis in New Delhi on Monday evening. BJP President Amit Shah also conducted the meeting of MPs in the presence of CM Fadnavis. The Centre is now engaged in finding a solution to the problem in the backdrop of the proposed intensification of the Maratha reservation stir in the state from Thursday with a state wide bandh.

The stir has been going on since a month, which erupted in violence and suicide incidents. The situation has become beyond control and the Sakal Maratha samaj and other organisations are firm over the decision of agitations from August 9 despite assurances given by CM Fadnavis.

CM Fadnavis had declared the deadline as November 2018 on Sunday for completing all legal steps, but organisations dont trust Mr Fadnavis and are not ready to wait. Agitations and violence are still continuing in the state, which is a matter of concern for PM Modi and Amit Shah who is taking review of the situation regularly.

CM Fadnavis met PM Modi and discussed the Maratha and Dhangar reservation issue in a meeting for more than one and half hour. The state government needs help from the Union government to complete legal formalities and Mr Fadnavis briefed PM Modi about political issues in the agitations. Congress president Rahul Gandhi called a meeting of state Congress leaders on August 8 on the issue. All issues have been discussed in the meeting, said sources. Meanwhile, BJP President Amit Shah also conducted a meeting of MPs at the residence of state president Raosaheb Danve. Heena Gavit raised the issue of attack on her in the Lok Sabha, which was embarrassing for the BJP. So Shah asked party MPs to take a stand and help the state government to pacify the Marathas. The Opposition should not take advantage of the situation, which may damage the BJP in the upcoming elections. Mr Shah cautioned MPs about the implications of reservation issue and party strategy in light of the bandh.
Norman-Spencer Agency Inc. has acquired the business assets of American Insurance Professionals, a nationwide insurance broker based in Phoenix, Ariz.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

AIP provides errors and omissions insurance, crime insurance, cyber insurance and statutory surety bonds to title professionals. The company is an exclusive program manager of General Star, a Berkshire Hathaway Co.

Dayton, Ohio-based Norman-Spencer provides nationwide insurance services with property/casualty programs covering real estate, transportation, construction and professional lines.

Topics Mergers Arizona
The insurance industry is responding to the massive blazes across California in a way that goes beyond merely paying claims.

More than $30,000 has been collected within the last week to help victims of the dozens of wildfires raging across the state by the Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation through a new disaster relief fund.

IICF has already granted $20,000 in relief funds to the Shasta Regional Community Foundation, a charitable organization to assist residents of Shasta and Siskiyou counties, and is working to collect more.

This years wildfires have reached historic proportions. Twin fires in the Northern California region are being treated as one, and are now considered the largest wildfire in state history, destroying roughly 443 square miles.

Bill Ross, CEO of IICF, said the group decided to create the fund because of the severity of the fires and to let people know that insurance professionals are interested in the welfare of the community, not just selling policies and paying claims.

I think its an opportunity for us an as an industry to have a collective and united response, Ross said.

If similar efforts from the group last year are any indication, expect significant proceeds to come in for wildfire victims.

IICF last year created a disaster fund to help victims of the Harvey, Irma and Maria hurricanes, and another fund for the California wildfires.

Collectively we raised, in a couple of weeks, about $650,000, Ross said.

The Mendocino Complex Fire, also known as the Ranch Fire, has burned 241,772 acres and is 20 percent contained. It has reportedly destroyed 75 residences and another 68 structures and is threatening 11,300 structures, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

The Ranch Fire remained active overnight expanding further north and east, continuing to challenge fire crews due to limited access, heavy fuel loads, low fuel moisture, and high temperatures, Cal Fires latest incident report states.

Another massive wildfire, the Carr Fire, has burned 167,113 acres and is 47 percent contained. Cal Fire is reporting 1,077 residences, 22 commercial structures and 500 outbuildings have been destroyed. Another 1,806 structures are being threatened, according to Cal Fire.

Ross views last years massive wildfires and those ongoing now as a call for even further involvement from the industry.

The interesting part of this challenge is that California wildfires seem to become more devastating each year, he said, adding that stepping forward and helping allows us to show the generosity of the industry.

He said the industry is heavily involved with the community, but it doesnt get a lot of recognition for that.

This industry is very generous and very involved in the community, but they go about it in a quiet way, he said.

Those wishing to make a donation to the IICF California Wildfire Disaster Relief Fund can visit the groups dedicated donation website.

Corporate contributions or employee matching programs can be arranged through Melissa-Anne Duncan, IICFs Western division director. She can be reached via email at maduncan@iicf.com or by phone (714) 870-1084.

Related:

Topics Catastrophe California Natural Disasters Wildfire
What Is the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)?

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is the regulator of Australia's markets and financial services. The ASIC ensures that Australia's financial markets are fair and transparent. The ASIC is an independent Commonwealth Government body established by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission Act of 2001 (ASIC Act).

Key Takeaways The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is an independent government body tasked with regulating Australia's financial markets and financial services industry.

The Commission consists of a chairperson and members tasked with determining priorities in regulating Australian companies, financial markets and services organizations, and the professionals who work in financial services.

The ASIC is tasked with promoting investor confidence through regulating and improving the financial system's performance, enforcing the law, storing financial information efficiently, and making it available to the public.

Understanding the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)

The ASIC regulates Australian companies, financial markets, financial services organizations, and professionals who deal and/or advise on insurance, superannuation, investments, deposit-taking, and credit. ASIC service centers are located in all of Australia's capital cities.

ASIC's Structure

The organization is headed by a Commission that is responsible for the ASIC's activities. The Commission is composed of a Chairperson and members. The Commission decides the ASIC's strategic direction and its priorities.

ASIC's Role

Under the ASIC Act, the ASIC is expected to:

Maintain, facilitate, and improve the financial system's performance Promote confident and informed investor and consumer participation Administer and enforce the law effectively and efficiently Process and store information efficiently and quickly Make information regarding companies and other bodies public in a timely manner  

The ASIC promotes investor and financial consumer trust and confidence by educating investors and the public on investor responsibility. The ASIC holds gatekeepers to account, and it studies consumer behavior and how investors and consumers make decisions. The ASIC also ensures fair and transparent markets by playing a role in market supervision and corporate governance.

Who Does the ASIC Regulate?

The ASIC regulates Australian companies, financial markets, financial service organizations, and financial professionals. It also acts as the consumer credit regulator and licenses and regulates organizations such as banks, credit unions, finance companies, and mortgage brokers according to the National Consumer Credit Protection Act of 2009.

The ASIC is also the markets regulator and ensures that financial markets are fair, transparent markets and advises the Minister when new markets are being considered for authorization. As the financial services regulator, the ASIC licenses and monitors financial service individuals.

The ASIC lists the following as powers that fall within its mandate:
What is a Waiver Of Notice

A waiver of notice is a document individuals sign which legally waives their rights to receive formal notices regarding certain probate issues. For example, let's assume a family patriarch named Charley passes away, and that his estate is meant to be distributed among his three children: Michael, Sally, and Melissa, who are his sole heirs. Under normal circumstances, the probate court must issue a public notice regarding proceedings pertaining to the probate of Charley's will. However, if Michael, Sally, and Melissa--all of whom have deeply vested interests in Charley's assets, consent to waivers of notice, an appointed administrator or executor may attend in their places. By sending such representatives in their stead, courts can accelerate the the probate process, thus benefitting Charley's heirs by ultimately allowing them to receive their inheritances faster, as a result.

Key Takeways A waiver of notice is a document an individual signs that allows probate courts to proceed with will hearings in their absence.

Waiver of notice are helpful in expediting the process, while cutting down on the often costly administrative court fees.

These legal documents are often used in corporate settings, by letting boards of directors congress, without all members present.

Simply put: a waiver of notice can be a massive timesaver for all relevant interested parties. But it should be made clear that a wavier of notice does not affect an individual's right to information. Rather, it simply means they may be excluded from prior notices, about certain iterative steps in the probate process.

Breaking Down Waiver Of Notice

Probate courts mainly deal with vital and sensitive issues such as wills, estates and trusts. For this reason, generally speaking, interested parties are entitled to receive adequate notice about any probate hearings. But waivers of notice allow a representative to attend, which can save both time and money in proceedings that would normally subject heirs to lengthy waits and high legal fees.

There are potential downsides to waivers of notice. Namely, by signing one, it will be difficult for an heir to later contest the estate by challenging the validity of a will or choice of executor. In the probate process, a hearing is required to make these challenges.

Waiver of Notice for Corporate Purposes

Waivers of notice don't solely apply to the process of probating a will. These legal documents can also be useful when a corporate board of directors or similar governing group needs to hold an emergency meeting. The notice allows them to do so, even if every board member isn't available to attend at a moment's notice. But more importantly, a notice provides an assurance that the proceedings of a meeting where notice is waived will be considered legal and valid if it is later challenged. In these cases, corporate attorneys recommend all directors sign a waiver of notice ahead of the meeting or a waiver of notice for future meetings. Copies of the signed waivers should be attached as evidence to the minutes of the meeting in question.

Important: For heirs who naturally wish to keep a close watch on probate cases, a waiver of notice may work against them, and they should opt against signing one.]
IRELAND: Motorists could face a tax on the distance they drive rather than pay excise duty on fuel.

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ANAYLSIS: Minister should not feel threatened by Catholic Church imparting its doctrines to the faithful of all ages.

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Debby Wu

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) blamed a variant of the WannaCry ransomware for the unprecedented shutdown of several plants, as it ramps up chipmaking for Apples next iPhones.

Full operations have resumed and the malware will reduce revenue this quarter by no more than 2%, down from an initial estimate of roughly 3%, said chief executive CC Wei.

The company faces shipment delays from the infection, which happened when a supplier installed tainted software without a virus scan.

It spread swiftly and hit facilities in Tainan, Hsinchu, and Taichung  home to some of the cutting-edge plants that produce Apples semiconductors.

TSMC intends to make up for the lost time as it heads into the critical holiday season, Apples most important quarter.

But Mr Wei wouldnt discuss the impact on its customers or where the malware variant may have originated, nor how it made it past the companys security protocols  a black eye for a corporation that prides itself on its technological and operational superiority.

No hacker targeted TSMC, Mr Wei said, explaining that the infected production tool was provided by an unidentified vendor.

We are surprised and shocked, he told reporters.

We have installed tens of thousands of tools before, and this is the first time this happened, he said.

The company is overhauling its procedures after encountering a virus more complex than initially thought, he said.

Chief financial officer Lora Ho said the incident would have some impact on TSMCs 2018 profit, declining to elaborate beyond an earlier warning that third-quarter gross margins would slip by about a percentage point.

The incident underscores the global nature of the technology supply chain, in which companies like Apple and Qualcomm depend on hundreds of suppliers around the world.

WannaCry spread across the globe in May 2017, rolling through corporations from FedEx to French carmaker Renault and infiltrating Russias interior ministry as well as British hospitals.

Bloomberg
Eamon Quinn

The prices quoted for tenders for non-housing construction projects climbed almost 4% in the first six months and will likely reach boom-time levels sometime next year, the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland has predicted.

The rising costs of projects starting at 500,000 in a very short period will come as unwelcome news for the Government and means it will get less for its money as it ramps up spending on capital projects in the coming years.

The society warned that the effects may be felt by contractors currently undertaking government work in schools and hospitals.

Given the continued rise in tender prices over a relatively short period of time, it will be a concern for contracting authorities receiving tender proposals for national projects that contractors may well run into financial difficulty half way through  as evidenced in recent school delivery projects, said society president Des OBroin.

If the current trend continues prices will be back at the peak boom-time level of 2007 early next year. The current rate of increase is simply not sustainable in the long term, he said, citing ever-increasing workload coupled with the skills shortage being experienced by both main contractors and specialist sub-contractors, for the price hikes.

Construction tender prices rose 3.95% in the first six months this year, will rise by an annual 7.4% by the end of 2018, and reach record levels early in 2019, says the society.

The sharpest price rises of 4.2% and 5.1% at the half-year stage were posted in Dublin and the rest of Leinster, while prices rose by almost 3.4% and by over 3.1% in Munster and in Connacht-Ulster, respectively.

Labour prices are also rising on foot of the sectoral employment order while the price of steel, timber, and other materials, as well as oil, are also increasing, said Mr OBroin.

Energy building regulations and uncertainty sparked by Brexit and fears of trade wars are also helping to push up prices, he said.

The Ulster Bank Construction Purchasing Managers survey, published last month, showed activity in housing and commercial was expanding strongly.
By Sarah Slater

Prescribing aspirin in early pregnancy could be key in the battle against pre-eclampsia, a study shows.

New research carried out at University College Dublin and published in the British Medical Journal shows that women in Ireland are open to taking a low daily dose (75mg) of aspirin from early pregnancy to reduce their chances of developing the condition.

The current approach here of screening expectant mothers for pre-eclampsia after they show early signs of the condition may not offer the best outcome for mothers and babies.

It is widely accepted that low doses of aspirin can significantly reduce the early onset of pre-eclampsia during pregnancy, but few studies have assessed the acceptability of non-routine medications in pregnancy. The study findings offer an encouraging sign that women in Ireland at low risk of developing pre-eclampsia are willing to take preventive steps early in their pregnancies.

Fionnuala McAuliffe, one of the study authors, from UCD School of Medicine, is calling for a widespread randomised controlled trial to test the efficacy and safety of a universal low-dose aspirin approach.

"Our study investigated if women were open to taking a low daily dose [75mg] of aspirin from early pregnancy [11 weeks] and would continue to do so up until the third trimester, said Prof McAuliffe, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at the National Maternity Hospital and director of UCD Perinatal Research Centre.

We found that, when encouraged by their doctor to take a low-level daily dose of aspirin from 11 weeks until 36 weeks, the majority of women did so, at an average adherence rate of 90%.

The study, funded by the Health Research Board, the Mother and Baby Clinical Trials Network, and Perinatal Ireland, involved 546 pregnant women from across two Dublin-based maternity hospitals.

Pre-eclampsia affects one in 10 first-time pregnancies, and the warning signs can often go unnoticed, causing serious problems for mother and baby.

For the mother, it can lead to acute problems of the liver, kidneys, brain, and clotting system, and survivors of pre-eclampsia have increased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases later in life.

A quarter of all babies born to mothers with pre-eclampsia are growth restricted and a third are born prematurely.

Pre-eclampsia usually occurs during the second half of pregnancy, from around week 20, and the only treatment is to induce labour and deliver the baby.

Another study carried out in 2017, based on pregnant women involved in the Screening for Pregnancy End Points project, found that complications from pre-eclampsia cost the HSE upwards of 9m a year, with postnatal care the largest contributor to these costs.
The court told the state to think sensitively.

Mumbai: The Bombay high court on Tuesday expressed concern over the agitations carried out in the state for Maratha reservation. The state government has informed the Bombay high court that till November 15 the state backward class commission would hand over its report to the state government. The court expressed concern over suicides committed throughout the state. The court also asked the Maratha community to maintain peace and resist from taking extreme steps. The court told the state to think sensitively.

The court said it had read news reports of several agitators having committed suicide and that it was very concerned. They must remember that human life is very valuable and cannot be lost just like that, the bench said.

A division bench of Justices Ranjit More and Anuja Prabhudesai was hearing a plea filed by Vinod Patil seeking reservation and directions to the backward classes commission to submit its recommendations to the state on entitlement of such quota expeditiously.

Accordingly, the state government has filed a report before the court. Special government pleader Ravi Kadam informed the court that the commission has appointed five agencies to collect data pertaining to economic, educational and social conditions of the Marathas from the various district of the state.

The agencies completed the public survey till July 30. He also said that the five agencies would segregate voluminous documents till September 5.

Mr Kadam also said that after the bifurcation, commission-appointed experts would examine the documents and send recommendations to the backward class commission and thereafter the commission would come to the conclusion and submit its report to the state government and the process would be completed in November.

The court then asked the state why the commission has taken such a long time. Considering the situation in the state, the commission should complete its work fast.

Mr Kadam said that enough time needs to be granted to the commission so that its done accurately.

Mr Kadam argued that purpose of the petition was to ask for a status report from the backward class commission. But the court refused to dispose of the petition saying it would monitor the case till the report is filed and slated the hearing for September 10.
By Sean ORiordan, Defence Correspondent

A damning report has highlighted the reduced calibre of recruits in the Defence Forces, concluding that some had severe learning difficulties, others were extremely unfit, and one had been arrested numerous times by gardai.

Some officers within the Defence Forces have queried vetting procedures as the report claims they were unaware of that persons past until it was pointed out by another recruit.

Garda vetting is not carried out in many cases before recruits are inducted into training. This is because of the need to speed up recruitment to replace the haemmorage of highly trained personnel who are leaving the Defence Forces for better pay and conditions in the private sector.

Garda vetting of recruits can take between three and six months to complete.

The leaked draft report also stated that one of the recruits thought he was on a trainee officers course, rather than on one for enlisted personnel.

It also stated that a number of the recruits in one recruitment class had learning difficulties that inhibited them from completing the training course.

Sources within the Defence Forces have said that while the Department of Defence has tried to accelerate recruitment, the numbers deemed suitable is falling and some recruitment classes are barely viable because of this.

The classified report was compiled to provide senior Defence Forces officers with a snapshot of ongoing recruitment and concluded that, in general, there was a very poor standard of recruit.

It also highlighted the very short notice given to provide suitably qualified training staff to oversee the recruit class.

Neither of the Defences Forces representative organisations  Raco for officers and PDForra for enlisted personnel  are allowed to comment on operational issues such as the leaked report.

However, both organisations have constantly highlighted the likelihood that the calibre of recruits would be reduced because of competition from the better- paid private sector, and that security could be compromised due to a lack of garda vetting.

Members of the Defences Forces are the lowest paid of all public servants.

Last July, 65 recruits were called to the Naval Service headquarters in Haulbowline, Co Cork, to undertake medical and fitness tests. Just six turned up for a recruitment class that was supposed to be up to 48-strong.

The manpower shortage is being acutely felt in the naval service. Its flagship, the LE Eithne, recently had to call up naval service reserves because it did not have an adequate number of crew members for a routine patrol.

The improved economy is also hitting recruitment to the army and Raco has previously warned that the exodus of highly trained personnel is leaving it operationally compromised and putting safety at risk.

A Defence Forces statement issued last night said that, following the completion of career courses, they routinely carry out a review process to improve procedures and course content for subsequent iterations of each course. In order for this process to be effective, the conduct of courses, from the lead-in through to completion, needs to be questioned thoroughly and honestly.

The statement said: It is the responsibility of the personnel running courses and recruitment campaigns to address any challenges and prevent as much as possible their re-occurrence, as well as to identify the positive aspects and incorporate them into future courses.

Each phase of a course carries with it its own unique challenges and issues which are dealt with at the time, and later highlighted during the after-action review process.

The Defence Forces added that, after induction as a recruit, suitability to serve as a member of the Defence Forces is constantly monitored and approximately 22% of each group do not complete training for various reasons.

This reflects a long-term trend and the Defence Forces are satisfied that those who complete training have met the required standard, said a Defence Forces statement.

The Defence Forces does not comment on individual course after- action reviews, their contents, or any of the specifics of individual courses.
By Joe Leogue

More than two-thirds of investigations into the deaths of vulnerable prisoners since 2012 have raised concerns about misleading or inaccurate record-keeping by prison staff, and the care afforded to inmates who have suicidal ideation and mental health problems.

An Irish Examiner analysis of reports published by the office of the Inspector of Prisons has found repeated examples where the prison records from the date of a prisoners death in custody have been proven to be incomplete or inaccurate.

In some cases, log books stating that special-observation inmates, or special obs, were checked every 15 minutes, as per protocol, were proven to be not true when the inspector reviewed CCTV footage of the time in question.

The Office of the Inspector of Prisons made its first finding of incorrect record-keeping in a 2012 report on the death of a prisoner in Mountjoy.

Similar issues have since been noted in reports into deaths in Cork, Limerick, Portlaoise, Cloverhill, and Wheatfield Prisons.

The Inspector of Prisons has repeatedly raised the issue over the last five years in its annual reports and individual reports into deaths of prisoners in custody.

In his 2013/14 annual report, the late Judge Michael Reilly noted how one prison officer said that, in training, staff are told when it comes to report writing they are to keep it short and cover your arse.

Last March, Judge Reillys successor, Helen Casey, published a report on the death of Prisoner A on January 3, 2017, in Cork Prison.

Ms Caseys review of CCTV footage found that on the night he died, Prisoner A  a 52-year-old married father serving a six-month term  was left unchecked for more than the standard 15 minutes on six occasions, including one period that lasted one hour and 42 minutes.

The records, however, stated that he was checked every 15 minutes.

Ms Casey noted that the records provided to her by Cork Prison are misleading in content and that she would have accepted that staff had complied with protocol but for the CCTV footage viewed.

Incomplete and inaccurate record-keeping regularly feature as a finding in reports from this office, said Ms Casey.

The Inspector of Prisons has been tasked with preparing individual reports on deaths in custody since 2012.

Since then, 87 such reports have been published  an analysis of these by this newspaper found the reports into 12 deaths have raised concerns about deficiencies in record-keeping and the checking of prisoners.

Eleven of these 12 cases involved a vulnerable prisoner on special observation at the time of their death.

In total, the Inspector of Prisons has published reports into the deaths of 15 special-observation prisoners since 2012.

Deirdre Malone, executive director of the Irish Penal Reform Trust, said the issue is one that has long been of concern to the trust.

The outcomes of these cases are the most serious of the most serious type; these are deaths in custody  people have lost their lives in custody, she said.

There is no option when youre on special obs. There is no other option to contact a family member, there is no option to ring an ambulance yourself, there is no option to ring a friend.

You are entirely dependent on other people, namely officers, to look after you and when they dont do that or when they dont do their checks, the consequences can be of the most serious type, which they were in these cases.

Ms Malone said there is a need to establish whether the issue is due to a lack of staffing in Irish prisons and whether or not there is a culture or practice of obfuscating the truth when it comes to record keeping.

In a joint statement, the Department of Justice and Irish Prison Service said Minister Charlie Flanagan pays careful attention to reports from the Inspector of Prisons and that the director of the Prison Service shares the concerns of the minister in relation to those operational deficiencies illustrated by the [Inspector of Prisons] in some of these reports.
By Sean ORiordan

A Trinity College Dublin science graduate is helping spearhead a fight to save Australias Great Barrier Reef.

Kate OCallaghan, who comes from Ballincollig, Co Cork, together with her Australian husband, Som Meaden, and world-renowned environmentalist Andy Ridley are working together to protect the reef off northeastern Australia.

The 2,300km-long ecosystem is the largest living thing on the planet and visible from outer space. But it is losing its ability to bounce back from disturbances like coral bleaching, crown-of- thorns starfish predation, and cyclones.

Kate is working for an organisation called Citizens of the Great Barrier Reef, a Cairns-based, non-profit group spearheaded by Mr Ridley which is working on climate change solutions to preserve the reef.

Its home to countless species of fish, molluscs and starfish, turtles, dolphins, sharks, and more than 600 types of hard and soft coral.

Kate OCallaghan: Working to protect the 2,300km-long reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is the barometer for the health of the planet, said Kate.

So if the reef is affected by climate change then Ireland and other countries will also be. We are the canary in the mine.

Kate recently organised a visit by the Australian Olympic swimming team to the reef to raise awareness of its plight and the ways it is being impacted by issues like climate change and plastic pollution.

She also recently appeared on Australian TV and CNN to launch the Single Use Plastics Ban as part of World Oceans Day.

The plastic revolution is sweeping the world following David Attenboroughs heartfelt plea to tackle the crisis in Blue Planet II. The global community has responded emphatically from plastic bag bans to plastic-free supermarket aisles. The EU is now also proposing a ban on the 10 most common single-use items, said Kate.

She helped host 25 members of the Australian Dolphins Swim Team, led by Olympic gold-medalist Mack Horton, on the visit to the reef.

One million plastic bottles are sold around the world every minute, said Mr Horton.

Plastic bottles are one of the most common single-use items found on beaches and in waterways around the world. Thats why Im committing to ban them from my daily life, he added.

A team of researchers led by scientists at Australias University of Queensland found that during the 18-year period between 1992 and 2010, the coral recovery rate of reefs in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park declined by an average of 84%.

But the studys authors also say that effective local management strategies could help restore the reefs capacity to recover.

A science graduate of Trinity College who has studied environmental policies in Glasgow and Berlin universities, Kate is the daughter of Manus and Betty OCallaghan. Manus is well known as the organiser of the Cork Person of the Year awards.
By Aodhan O'Faolain & Ray Managh

A 25-year-old dog handler has brought a High Court challenge against a decision banning him from attending at greyhound racetracks or coursing events.

The action has been brought by Christopher Connolly over a decision made by Bord na gCon, which regulates greyhound racing in Ireland, which was consented to by the Irish Coursing Club, which regulates coursing, to exclude him from greyhound events around the country.

The court heard the exclusion order against Mr Connolly arose out of an incident at Tooradin Trial Track, Australia in 2014 when a piglet was used as live bait to train greyhounds.

Following an investigation of that and other incidents where piglets and rabbits were used as live bait, the regulators of greyhound racing in the Australian State of Victoria handed down bans to 10 persons involved in training greyhounds.

Mr Connolly, who returned to Ireland in 2015, received a lifetime ban, which was later reduced to five years on appeal.

In 2016 he applied to Bord na gCon for a Kennelhand Authorisation which would allow him to work in the industry he has been involved with for many years.

That application was refused by the Bord who informed Mr Connolly that he was "not a fit and proper person to be certified".

The Bord then informed Mr Connolly it was investigating him over what had occurred in Australia.

In May 2018 Mr Connolly was informed by the Bord that it was making the exclusion order against him and had obtained the consent of the Irish Coursing Club.

He claims the decision is flawed and should be set aside on grounds including that it is unreasonable and irrational.

He also claims the Bord did not comply with the principles of natural justice or basic fairness when arriving at its decision to exclude him.

No adequate reasons were cited for its decision, it is also submitted.

He further alleges that the investigation relied upon by Bord na gCon before it made its decision never took place.

The decision to exclude him lacks objectivity and appears to have been made in advance of any submissions from Mr Connolly, it is claimed.

In his action Mr Connolly with an address at Farney's Cross, Cappawhite Co Tipperary seeks orders quashing a decision by Bord na gCon (the Irish Greyhound Board) prohibiting him being on any greyhound race tracks, any authorised coursing meeting or any public sale of greyhounds.

He also seeks an order quashing the Irish Coursing Club's consent to the making of the exclusion order. He further seeks a declaration that the order is invalid and seeks damages.

Permission to bring the action was granted, on an ex parte basis, by the High Court late last month.

The matter was briefly mentioned before Mr Justice Donald Binchy on Tuesday when Mr Connolly's lawyers said it had been agreed between the parties that there would be a stay on his exclusion until the case had been determined.

The matter will return before the High Court in November.
By Pat Flynn

One man has been critically injured after his car collided with a tree in Co Clare yesterday morning.

The single-vehicle collision occurred at around 9.15am on the N68 Ennis to Kilrush road between Darragh and Lissycasey close to Caherea National School and about 9km from Ennis.

The man, understood to be an Indian national aged in his mid-20s, was travelling to work in Kilrush when his grey Toyota car crossed the road and crashed sideways into a tree. The vehicle was left facing front-down into the ditch following the collision that happened as the car neared a bend in the road.

It was misty in the area at the time, however it wasnt immediately clear whether road conditions played a part in the crash.

Two ambulances and two units of the fire brigade from Ennis responded to the incident. Gardai quickly set up diversions and rerouted traffic away from the area.

Fire crews used specialist cutting equipment to remove the drivers side of the vehicle so they could safely access and remove the injured man.

It is understood that paramedics had requested a helicopter to airlift the casualty to hospital, however it was later decided at the scene that it would be faster to transport the man by road.

The ambulance, accompanied by a Garda patrol car, rushed the man to University Hospital Limerick for emergency treatment.

A section of the road was closed pending completion of an examination by forensic collision investigators. The road was reopened at around 3.15pm.

The vehicle was taken to a Garda compound where it will undergo a forensic examination.

A local man said: It was hard to look at that in fairness but I keep thinking, if there was anyone in the passenger seat, they had no chance. The whole passenger side went right into the car. It was awful.

Gardai in Kilrush are appealing for witnesses or anyone who may have been on that stretch of road between 8.45am and 9.15am to contact them on 065 9080550, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.
By Gordon Deegan

An IT engineer who left a trail of debt behind him after borrowing a sum of just under 50,000 from six colleagues at his firm has been sacked for violating the companys expenses policy.

Initially, the man received a loan of 3,000 in April 2017 from his employer on a humanitarian and exceptional basis after the IT engineer in his urgent loan request said that he required the money for hospital treatment fees for his father, who had been diagnosed with cancer.

The IT engineer then secured a loan of $20,000 from his immediate boss in June of last year after telling him that he needed the money to pay for an additional hospital stay after his father had to undergo a triple heart bypass.

During this time on a business trip to the US, the IT specialist ran up a $5,651 expense bill on the company credit card and had not entered an expense report for approval.

It was during the Irish-based companys investigation into the unpaid expense bill that the scale of the mans borrowing spree with colleagues was laid bare.

Along with the $20,000 that his boss had provided for the IT engineers fathers hospital treatment, the company learned on August 14 last that three other employees had lent the man money in the amounts of $3,000, $3,500, $5,000, and $12,000.

On August 22, another employee came forward to say had lent his co-worker 9,000 and only 900 was repaid.

Three days later, another employee came forward to say he had lent the man 3,000 towards the end of July and said that the engineer was not reachable and had unfriended the employee on Facebook.

In total, the man borrowed $43,500 (37,671) from four work colleagues, along with an additional 12,000 from two others, giving a total of 49,671.

During the investigation, the man claimed the $20,000 borrowed from his boss for his fathers cancer treatment had been repaid but the company discovered that the money has not been repaid and is still outstanding.

The company also learned that the IT engineer approached a senior leader outside his own normal management chain for a loan of 20,000 in July as his father had complications arising from his cancer treatment.

On July 27, 2017, another employee reported that he had been approached by the IT specialist for a loan of 12,000 and he had advised HR of this as he thought that the approach was highly unusual. No money changed hands in either case.

On August 24, the company sacked the man for gross misconduct as a result of violating the companys expense policy.

The firm said the dismissal was warranted by the IT engineers calculated deception to get money from his employer.

The firm said the man has not repaid the company.

During the disciplinary process, the IT engineer said he would repay the money but he never has.

The man sued for unfair dismissal at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The WRC found that his claim was not well founded.

The man claimed that he was not afforded the principles of natural justice in the companys disciplinary proceedings against him. However, the man did not turn up at the WRC hearing to advance his claim.

According to WRC adjudication officer Gerald McMahon, the man provided no excuse for his non-attendance at the hearing.
A council planner in Dublin is not saying Im lovin it to McDonalds plans to do away with its ground floor McCafe in its flagship restaurant on Grafton Street.

The fast food chain is facing a struggle to secure planning permission for its proposed alterations to one of its busiest branches in the country which is located in a listed building.

McDonalds wants to remove its McCafe section from its Grafton St outlet to create additional space for high tables and seating with alterations to both its ground and first-floor layouts.

The plans also include the installation of self-serving kiosks and the reconfiguration of its serving counters and a refitting of the kitchen area.

McDonalds claims its proposed alterations are cosmetic. However, the planning section of Dublin City Council said it had serious concerns about the removal of the McCafe unit and the installation of high tables directly behind the shopfront window as well as the use of garish graphics which will be visible from the street.

It signalled the proposal will not be fully compatible with and complementary to the character of the protected structure which also lies within a special planning control and architectural conservation area centred on Grafton Street.

There are concerns that the positioning of the new high tables and chairs and their use by customers directly behind the glazing would have a negative impact visually on the wider architectural conservation area, a council planner said.

McDonalds was asked last month to revise its plans to omit the high-level seating and to provide a neutral colour design for the restaurant.

A decision on the application for planning permission is due before the end of the month.
By Lynne Kelleher

Three out of four emergency department (ED) staff in an Irish hospital met the criteria for burnout, according to a new study.

Staff in Irish EDs have been working in increasingly chaotic conditions over the past few years as the number of people on trolleys in these departments all over the country have continued to soar.

The new research found that 70% of doctors and 78% of nurses met the benchmark for the workplace exhaustion condition in the ED at Cork University Hospital (CUH).

Eight out of 10 radiographers, 100% of care assistants, and 67% of porters also met the bar for the stress-related condition, along with 63% of hospital administrators.

The research showed that 75% of the study participants overall met the criteria for burnout.

The study, one of the first of its kind in Ireland, indicated that symptoms of burnout were variable and included emotional exhaustion, physical exhaustion, and disengagement.

The study, just published in the Irish Journal of Medical Science, also revealed that burnout rates were significantly associated with a history of depression.

Nurses in the Cork study were found to have a dramatically higher burnout rate  nearly three times the international rate of 26%  whereas the rate for physicians is similar to the international rate of 65%.

The study, which was headed up by Peter Chernoff, said the findings built on research across the globe showing the prevalence of burnout in high-stress environments like emergency departments.

The authors of the study said: Obstacles such as rising healthcare costs and increasingly excessive demands on the frontline workforce contribute to the environment of burnout in all hospital staff.

Some 97 ED staff in CUH were gauged for the workplace stress condition using the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory.

The authors reported: An accessible, reliable, and valid measure of burnout may help individuals in the emergency department identify emotional exhaustion and disengagement.

It can be argued that hospital administrators and policymakers also have an important role in reducing the prevalence of burnout whether through primary prevention, routine screening or interventions aimed at reducing burnout.

The study said that burnout, described as a state of emotional depletion developed in the workplace, was found to be very common in CUH.

Other studies have shown that emergency department doctors are three times more likely than the average doctor to experience professional burnout

The authors of the CUH study said that the effects of burnout can have far-reaching implications for the health service.

The authors also noted that other, similar studies have found that burnout among doctors increases the prevalence of a range of mental and physical health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, fatigue, hypertension, marital disharmony, and even suicide.
Mean-while, the state government informed the court that it had identified 110 silence zones in Mumbai and the process was still underway.

Mumbai: The Bombay high court has asked the state to ensure that no illegal pandal comes up, at least in major cities such as Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai and Pune. If the state fails to do so, the court will initiate contempt proceedings against errant government officers.

The court also expressed displeasure at the state governments apathy towards compliance of its orders on noise pollution. Mean-while, the state government informed the court that it had identified 110 silence zones in Mumbai and the process was still underway.

The court noted that civic bodies and other authorities had been tolerating such unauthorised structures on public roads. It said that the government must comply with its previous orders on illegal pandals, else face contempt proceedings.

A division bench of Justices A.S. Oka and Riyaz Chagla said that it had directed the government and civic bodies on several occasions to take strict action against illegal pandals erected on public roads during festivals as they obstructed traffic.

As of Tuesday, there is no substantial compliance with our orders. There has been a failure on the part of local authorities to take action against illegal pandals. Illegal pandals are being tolerated by civic bodies and other authorities in complete breach of the noise pollution rules and court orders, the court said.

We direct the government to report compliance of our orders, at least in major districts like Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Nashik and Thane. If we find that there is no compliance, then we will be forced to initiate contempt action, it said.

The bench was hearing petitions seeking implementation of noise pollution rules. The court posted the petitions for further hearing on September 12. Pandals come up in large numbers during the Ganesh and Navratri festivals, which will be celebrated in September and October, respectively.
Worshippers attending the papal Mass in Dublin's Phoenix Park should make sure their vaccinations are up to date.

At least half a million people will descend on the capital for Pope Francis' Mass on Sunday, August 26, including visitors from over 116 countries.
When the weather broke over the last 10 days, social media was full of references to people considering the

strangest of activities: turning the heating on.

The sun returned over the bank holiday weekend but the cooler, rainy stretch was a reminder that autumn is on its way.

People revelled in the long, hot days this summer but we also benefited from reduced energy bills as a result. That will change in the coming weeks and months and it may be only then the consumers truly notice the price increases that suppliers have been announcing for months.

Daragh Cassidy, head of communications at price comparison website bonkers.ie described last Wednesday, August 1, as D-Day, when the increases began to actually kick in.

Electric Ireland, Energia, Flogas, Panda Power and Pinergy all increased their prices on Wednesday with PrePayPower and Bord Gais following on Friday and yesterday. Increases varied between 5.8% and 9.38% for electricity and 4.7% to 12.8% for gas.

Ireland imports a huge amount of its energy from abroad, Mr Cassidy said.

As a result, Ireland remains highly susceptible to increases in the wholesale price of gas and energy on international markets and unfortunately these prices have increased significantly over the past year.

There are two ways to reduce the bills you will face later on in the year  reduce the amount of energy you use or reduce how much you pay for it. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) reports that home heating accounts for about two thirds of average annual household energy bills.

They offer a range of grants for work that can make your home more energy efficient, from home heating upgrades to wall and roof insulation. On average, a home loses 20% to 30% of its heat through the walls, rising even further if they are not insulated. Up to 30% can be lost through a poorly insulated attic.

Getting the grant process started now will give you loads of time to complete the work before the cold weather really starts to bite. All homeowners, including landlords, whose homes were built and occupied before 2006 can apply, and applications can be made online.

There is an application grant available on www.seai.ie and, if everything is in order, you can be approved within minutes.

The other main big piece of advice from the SEAI regarding heating is to keep an eye on your thermostat. Everyone likes to feel cosy at home but that doesnt have to mean hot enough to wear a T-shirt in the depths of winter.

Keeping the thermostat too high is a major contributor to costs. The SEAI calculates that lowering your thermostat from 21c to 20c could save around 150 in a typical family home.

People mistakenly think that setting the thermostat higher will cause the house to heat up more quickly but that is a fallacy. The temperature will rise at the same rate.

The other way to tackle costs is through a switch. Each energy supplier charges a different standard rate so the impact of, for example, a 5% price increase from one supplier may not have the same impact on a customers bill as a 5% price increase from another.

Customers who are on introductory rates may also be impacted differently.

Therefore customers will have to do a little research to see if a move will benefit them and which supplier is the best fit for them. Price comparison sites like bonkers.ie and switcher.ie make it simple for people and Mr Cassidy strongly recommends everyone to consider a switch.

Energy suppliers usually save their best rates for brand-new customers, which are heavily discounted compared to the standard rates a longer-term customer is charged, he said.

However, these deals usually expire after 12 months. At this stage, if customers dont switch, their supplier will revert their plan to standard pricing and theyll pay more for the exact same service. So by switching over to a new deal with a new supplier every year, customers can save over 300 on their energy bills.

Deal of the Week

With less than a month to go until the schools return, Irish Rail is encouraging families to leave the car at home and take the train for those last few days out. The company is promoting child and adult fares to and from Dublin.

From Cork you can head to Dublin , or vice versa, for  19.99 each way with childrens tickets available for 15.50, or go on to Fota/Cobh for an extra 3 per adult (no extra for children).

Children can also travel between Tralee/Killarney and Dublin for 15.50, with adults charged 22.99.

Closer to the capital, there are fares from Dublin to Rosslare for 4.99 for children and adults. Fares between Dublin

and Belfast are available from 10 each way per child, or 17.99 per adult.

Online reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance. There is no cancellation or refunds available on

low fares. Online terms and conditions apply.

 If there are any consumer issues that youd like Grainne to address or if you have problems that Grainne could help with, she can be contacted at makingcents@examiner.ie
The concerns highlighted by two prison inspectors on proper records being kept by officers appears to be falling on deaf ears within the service, with the fear without a change from the culture of cover your arse, further deaths of vulnerable prisoners will occur, writes Joe Leogue

'Keep it short and cover your arse.

Its a phrase that leaps out from the page, particularly so when it appears in a report prepared by a statutory body.

In 2014, the late Judge Michael Reilly was concerned.

The Clonmel native was now seven years into his term as inspector of prisons, having served a distinguished career on the bench as a judge in both the District and Special Criminal Court.

During his time as prison inspector, the same significant problem arose time and time again, and no matter how many times he called for the issue to be addressed, it would present itself once more, as if his words were falling on deaf ears.

Vulnerable prisoners were dying  and the official prison records of the circumstances around their deaths were not true accounts of what happened in the prison that day.

Every time a prisoner died in custody, the prison inspector would investigate the circumstances around the death.

Judge Reillys job was not to determine the cause of death  that was for the coroner  but he was tasked with examining whether the prison staff followed all correct protocols at the time.

A trend, however, was emerging regarding vulnerable prisoners who required special observation  special obs as they are known.

In many cases, such prisoners are recognised as having mental health problems, suicidal ideation, or a history of self-harm.

Protocols dictate that special obs must be checked on every 15 minutes, and staff must record each check in a log book.

Judge Reilly, however, found repeated incidences where a check of CCTV footage from the day a special obs prisoner died contradicted the entries in the log.

He highlighted the problem in his 2013/2014 annual report, published in August 2014.

There is a lack of appreciation in some quarters that accurate and truthful records must be kept, he wrote.

I must point out, at this juncture, that prison records are official records and it is a very serious matter to falsify official records. An example of this could be a statement to the effect that a prisoner on Special Observation had been checked in accordance with the procedures for the checking of such prisoners when in fact this may not have happened.

Inspection bodies such as my office should be entitled to rely on the veracity of official records.

Judge Reilly said he had been told that, in a number of prisons, the approach to record-keeping is to put as little on paper as is necessary.

In one investigation that I had sight of, an officer, in referring to report writing, is quoted as stating: We are only trained on report writing in initial training and they tell you to keep it short and cover your arse, he wrote.

The prison inspector has been tasked with preparing individual reports on deaths in custody since 2012.

Since then, 87 such reports have been published  and an analysis of these by the Irish Examiner has found that the reports into 12 deaths have raised concerns about deficiencies in the record keeping and the checking of prisoners.

Eleven of these 12 cases involved a vulnerable prisoner who was on special observation at the time of their death.

Fifteen such prisoners have died since 2012  meaning the investigations into more than two-thirds of the deaths of vulnerable prisoners have raised concerns about checks and record keeping.

It is not a problem unique to any one prison  the 12 cases of concern occurred in Mountjoy, Cork, Limerick, Portlaoise, Cloverhill, and Wheatfield Prisons.

Mountjoy Prison

Judge Reilly died in November 2016, and Helen Casey assumed the role of inspector of prisons.

She found the same problems persisted, despite her predecessors warnings.

She noted how Judge Reilly had previously highlighted failure by some staff to observe Standard Operating Procedures, inaccurate and at times misleading reports of incidents, poor record keeping and lack of supervision which, he found, resulted in operational deficiencies.

She too, noted the same issues in her own findings.

Yet the problem persists.

Only last March, Ms Casey published a report on the death of Prisoner A on January 3, 2017, in Cork Prison.

The 52-year-old married father, who was serving a six-month prison sentence, had received medical and psychiatric attention while in Cork Prison.

According to the medical observation cell bBook for the night he died, staff checked on the inmate every 15 minutes  as per protocol  from 4.30pm to 7.15pm, and again from 8pm to 11.15pm, before he was found unresponsive in his cell at 11.38pm.

The cell book said one thing  however, the cameras told another story.

Upon viewing CCTV footage from the prison, Ms Casey found six intervals where the prisoner was left unattended for more than 15 minutes on the night he died  the shortest of these being for more than half an hour.

The longest period during which the man was left unattended lasted one hour and 42 minutes.

In examining the CCTV footage, it is clear that the deceased was not checked in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure, Ms Casey reported. The Standard Operating Procedure [SOP] for Special Observation Prisoners, in Cork Prison, states that Special Observation Prisoners must be checked every 15 minutes.

The entries referring to checks on the deceased in the Medical Observation Cell Book which is an official prison record are misleading in content and but for the CCTV footage viewed, I would have accepted the written record as representing compliance with the relevant SOP.

All prison personnel must appreciate that official documents must reflect the truth of actions taken by officers.

Irish Prison Service Management should address poor record-keeping.

Governors should ensure that regular audits of all records are carried out to ensure compliance.

Incomplete and inaccurate record keeping regularly feature as a finding in reports from this office as does this recommendation.

If the concerns of the prison inspectors are falling on deaf ears within the prison service, they are certainly not being ignored elsewhere.

In the inspectors reports, you can sense the growing frustration over a number of years, Deirdre Malone, executive director of the Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) told this paper.

The reason that prisoners on special obs are required to be checked on every 15 minutes is that they have already been identified as vulnerable.

So the prisons and the officers are already on notice that this is a person who is vulnerable for whatever reason, and that requires these checks to be performed and performed as per the Standard Operating Procedure in order to prevent issues like suicide and self-harm.

Ms Malone said the fact these deficiencies continue to happen is a cause for really significant concern.

The outcomes of these cases are the most serious of the most serious type, these are deaths in custody  people have lost their lives in custody, she said.

There is no option when youre on special obs. There is no other option, to contact a family member, there is no option to ring an ambulance yourself, there is no option to ring a friend. You are entirely dependent on other people, namely officers, to look after you and when they dont do that or when they dont do their checks, the consequences can be of the most serious type, which they were in these cases.

Ms Malone believes the fact that misleading official reports are repeatedly presented to the prison inspector raises some fairly serious concerns about whether or not there is a culture or practice of obfuscating the truth.

Its certainly fair enough to draw a conclusion that there is a serious problem with practice when it comes to ensuring that checks are conducted regularly, said Ms Malone.

There are probably many officers who are doing the checks properly and tragedies are being prevented because those checks are happening properly and regularly and we dont hear about them.

But in terms of the regularity with which we are seeing this coming up in the reports of the inspector, I think we can say that this is certainly something that requires significant examination and analysis as to why, when it has been identified, that it is continuing.

For the penal reform trust, that examination needs to determine whether this issue is a systemic failing or a cultural issue.

Ms Malone highlights prison overcrowding as one possible reason.

That puts officers under unbelievable the pressure, she said. So if it is an issue that is not physically possible [to do all the necessary checks] because of the number of officers available, it would be very useful to know that.

If it is a cultural issue, that people are simply not doing this as a matter of practice, as an embedded cultural practice over a number of years or if its another reason, there is a public interest in finding out what that reason is that and taking steps to learn lessons from these cases.

In June, the Irish Prison Service launched its annual report.

At the launch, Irish Prison Service director general Michael Donnellan was asked about the deficiencies highlighted in the report into Prisoner As death  and about the inspectors comments on how it was a recurring problem.

He said: Weve moved to a very sophisticated online computer-based system, our Prisoner Information System. The Inspector of Prisons rightly highlighted deficiencies when a death happens in custody and in relation to our record keeping and we have been taking a number of steps over the last number of months and indeed years to improve our record-keeping, especially from transitioning from paper-based records to electronic records.

That answer doesnt wash with Ms Malone, however.

The quote from the inspector from the annual report in 2014 is not raising concerns about the way in which or the format in which things are being recorded, she said. What is being raised is the tendency to put as a little on paper as is necessary, to keep it short and cover your arse. Thats not going to be addressed by IT systems. Thats a cultural issue, or its a training issue, but its certainly the message that is being received.

You are being charged with the management and supervision of people. You are being required to check them every 15 minutes. And if its not happening, an IT system is not going to ensure it happens.

Last March, in the aftermath of the publication on the report into the death of Prisoner A, this paper asked the Irish Prison Service if disciplinary action followed the finding of misleading record-keeping.

While it confirmed that disciplinary proceedings followed, it said: The Irish Prison Service does not comment on the outcome of such disciplinary cases.

The IPRT is concerned that any disciplinary action taken to date has not been a sufficient deterrent to prevent the problem arising again.

Theres no job where you can fail to fulfill a core and key function of your role and there are no consequences to that, said Ms Malone.

I think it would be very helpful to know what the consequences are in these cases. Because that is an important part of accountability. Ensuring accountability is about people understanding and knowing that if this happens there will be consequences, and were not going to tolerate it.

But the fact that this keeps coming up again and again tells me that it is being tolerated.

For the IPRT, the repeated issues that arise when a vulnerable person dies in an Irish prison highlights the need for greater oversight of the penal system.

One weakness that this highlights is that, currently, the inspectors recommendations are only that, they are recommendations and if they are not acted on, there is no consequence for the Irish Prison Service at all, other than if it is made public or there is a particular spotlight drawn to it, said Ms Malone.

But there is no functional consequence if recommendations are not taken on board.

That is something that needs to be examined because when a death occurs in custody, there has to be effective mechanisms of investigation to uncover all the circumstances and that needs to go beyond just apportioning blame to a person or persons.

It has to go towards improving the system overall so that if there is any positive legacy from the tragedy of a death in custody, it should be that concrete and effective changes are going to be swiftly introduced that will prevent some other mother from losing their child.

Measures to address issues raised in report

The Irish Examiner submitted a number of queries arising from these reports to both the Irish Prison Service and the Department of Justice.

A number of questions were submitted, including a query as to whether staff found to have provided misleading records are disciplined, and, if so, what specific disciplinary action was taken.

A joint statement was issued in response:

The Minister for Justice and Equality pays careful attention to reports from the Inspector of Prisons (IOP) in relation to all deaths in custody and, where deficiencies have been addressed by the Inspector of Prisons, the minister has received proposals to remedy these deficiencies from the Director of the Irish Prison Service, who shares the concerns of the Minister in relation to those operational deficiencies illustrated by the IOP in some of these reports.

The Director-General has assured the Minister that he shares the view that these issues are of the utmost importance. He has underlined to prison management and staff the need for full compliance at local prison level in this regard.

To strengthen compliance, the Director-General has advised that measures to address the issues raised in the IOP reports are currently being progressed as a matter of urgency.

These include:

- The modification of prison landing lighting to ensure visibility of staff conducting checks on CCTV.

- The amendment of the IPS CCTV policy to provide prison management with the ability to review all night duty CCTV footage to satisfy themselves that full compliance with night guard duty is taking place on a consistent basis.

The introduction of:

- A new monitoring of prisoners policy;

- A new Healthcare Special Observations Policy;

- A Revised Close Supervision Cell Procedure;

- A Revised Safety Observation procedure;

- A new monitoring of prisoners during night guard duty protocol.

The director-general has advised the minister that implementation of the above policies/protocols will be supported by a communications strategy to ensure staff awareness and appreciation of the serious consequences for non-compliance.

The minister is regularly briefed by the director-general.

The Department of Justices response to follow-up questions about disciplinary action was not received by this articles deadline.

Case Studies

Prisoner A (2012)

A 27-year-old father-of-one, Prisoner A died by suicide on 17th January 2012, less than a month after he was committed to Mountjoy.

He was committed to prison on the 20th December 2011. His release date was to be the 18th December 2014.

He had history of drug and alcohol abuse, and a history of seizures. He was reported sick in cell on January 16 and was found dead the next day with a note.

Findings: Appropriate records were not kept and therefore the deceased was not visited by a Nurse Officer/Medic as should have been the case, the Inspectors report found.

Correct records were not maintained by Officer C the Night Guard on duty on 16th/17th January. The Night Guard Report for D1 and D2 Landings for the night of the 16th/17th January 2012 states:- Patrolled the landings throughout the night finding all correct.

Prisoner B

Prisoner B was a 24-year-old single man who died by suicide in Limerick Prison on 21st January 2012.

The deceased had a known alcohol and prescription drug problem. He was known to the prison psychiatric services and also to the community based psychiatric services.

Findings: Prison management have been unable to provide me with accurate records either in electronic form or otherwise to assist me in determining whether the deceased was or was not on Special Observation at the date of his death.

The medical records were incomplete, inconsistent and demonstrate poor follow up on key aspects of healthcare.

"Therefore, on the balance of probabilities, I conclude that the deceased was not on the Special Observation List on the date of his death.

Prisoner K

Prisoner K was a 34-year-old married father when he died in the Mid-Western Regional Hospital, while in the custody of Limerick Prison, on 11th October 2013 following an incident on 7th October 2013.

The deceased had a history of depression. He had self harmed and had attempted suicide on several occasions. He also had a history of alcohol and drug misuse.

The deceased was known to the psychiatric services in the community and in prison. He had been an inpatient in a psychiatric hospital.

CCTV footage also indicated that he went unchecked for a period of 1 hour 24 minutes 19 seconds, commencing at 2.33.06pm.

Findings: The deceased was not checked in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures. Prior to being found at 5.38.52pm, the deceased had not been checked for 1 hour 23 minutes and 2 seconds when he should have been checked every 15/20 minutes.

In fact, between midnight and 3.57.25pm, there was a failure to check the deceased during eleven other separate periods ranging from 24 minutes 34 seconds to 3 hours 8 minutes and 49 seconds when he should have been checked every 15/20 minutes.

Prisoner N

Prisoner N was a 50-year-old married father who died on 29th December 2013 in Wheatfield Prison. He came from the Dublin area and was survived by his wife and children.

The deceased suffered from serious medical conditions. The deceased was categorised as a Special Observation Prisoner  medical.

Findings: The Inspector reported that protocol dictates that he must be provided with relevant documentation in accordance with an agreed checklist within certain time limits by a relevant prison.

I am sorry to report that, in the instant case, the prison did not adhere to the agreed protocol. This meant that my investigation was prolonged and made more difficult as I had to request individual pieces of information, in some instances many times.

In examining the times.. it is clear that .. the deceased was checked 12 times whereas he should have been checked at least 38 times as a special observations prisoner in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedures.

"The entries referring to Special Observation Prisoners in the journals...being official prison records, were certainly misleading in their content and but for the CCTV viewed by me would have been accepted by me as representing compliance with the relevant Standard Operating Procedures

Prisoner H

Prisoner H was a 37-year-old Polish father of two, who was in custody following his arrest on a serious charge which related to the death of his wife.

He died by suicide on August 26 2014, having been under special observation in Cloverhill Prison.

Findings: While the checks of the deceased...were frequent they did not accord with Standard Operating Procedures which dictate that a prisoner, such as the deceased, should be checked every 15/20 minutes.

The deceased was not checked for a period of 25 minutes and 37 seconds prior to his discovery... This did not accord with Standard Operating Procedures.

It appears that the deceased was last visited by a member of the medical team 3 hours 33 minutes and 16 seconds prior to being discovered.

The official prison record, being the Close Supervision Cell Journal, detailing the times that the deceased was checked does not accord with the facts, namely, the times disclosed on the CCTV.

Public officials must realise that it is a serious matter to create inaccurate public records.

Prisoner M (2014)

Prisoner M was a 23-year-old homeless man with a history of drug problems who was survived by his mother and a brother when he died in Wheatfield Prison on Christmas eve 2014.

The inmate was visited the day before he died by his girlfriend, who gave him a package he put in his mouth before being brought to a close supervision cell and placed under special observation.

Findings: However, on seven occasions the deceased was not checked every 15 minutes as provided for in relevant Standard Operating Procedures The three most significant failures saw him go unchecked for periods of 64, 53, and 41 minutes at a time.

The journal contains entries to the effect that the deceased was observed every 15 minutes from 11.30 hours on 23 December to 07.30 hours on 24 December.

There is an entry to the effect that the deceased was given his dinner at 12.00 hours but another entry is to the effect that the deceased declined his dinner.

Certain entries in official documents (namely, the Night Guard Journal and Cell Journal for cell 12) are incorrect, misleading and do not accord with the facts in that they purport to show that the deceased was checked every 15 minutes in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures. Toxicology tests proved positive for the presence of heroin and diazepam.

All prison personnel must appreciate that official documents must reflect the truth of actions taken by officers.

Prisoner C

Prisoner C was a 23-year-old man from Dublin who was survived by his mother, his siblings and his extended family when he died on 10 March 2015 in the Mater Hospital while in the custody of Mountjoy Prison.

Findings: Serious issues of significant concern are raised in this Report, the inspector found.

Throughout the night of 4/5 March 2015 the deceased was described variously as being agitated to being highly agitated. He expressed various concerns for his own safety and for his life.

The deceased was checked by prison staff on 28 occasions during the night at regular and at times irregular intervals. As a special obs prisoner he should have been checked every 15 minutes. On eight occasions the time intervals between such checks exceeded 15 minutes with intervals ranging from 19 minutes 3 seconds to 1 hour 21 minutes and 46 seconds. Prisoner C was found unresponsive in his cell on the morning of March 5, following a suicide attempt. He was brought to hospital where he died on March 10.

The inspector warned that: Proper, adequate and appropriate records must be maintained. When the status of a prisoner is documented as special obs this must be taken seriously as it suggests an element of vulnerability.

Prison personnel, of all grades, must be aware that the management of special obs prisoners or those considered vulnerable carries a high degree of responsibility.

Prisoner M (2015)

Prisoner M was a 30-year-old man who died on 28 July 2015 while in the custody of Portlaoise Prison.

He was survived by his Partner, two sons, his mother and siblings.

The prisoner was committed to prison on 16 September 2014 with a remission date of the 16 March 2016.

Findings: From my examination of CCTV footage from 08.00 to 21.00 on 28 July 2015 there are several periods throughout the day when the deceased, who was locked in cell 6 was not checked in accordance with the Standard Operating Procedure relating to these cells.

Records show that the deceased was checked in the cell every 15 minutes from 21.00 on 26 July 2015 to 14.15 on 27 July 2015 when this was not the case. While the cell was checked on 29 occasions during that period there were several periods of up to or in excess of one hour between checks contrary to the Standard Operating Procedures.

Prisoner P

Prisoner P died on 5 September 2015 in Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise while in the custody of Midlands Prison A 65 year old man survived by his sister and extended family, Prisoner P had a complex medical history, and died on 5 September 2015 in Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise while in the custody of Midlands Prison He collapsed in his cell on the morning he died.

Portlaoise Prison

While the Breakfast Guards Report stated that the officer had checked on all prisoners as required. Found all to be correct, days later the same officer filled out a report in which he admitted that he took ill and left his post before actually carrying out the checks.

I wrote out my report in the breakfast guard report book on good fate [sic] that I was going to check the prisoners during the break, but when I stood up from the chair to go and start my checks, I got very dizzy and had to sit back down, the officer said.

Findings: The inspector found that the note of the duties carried out by the Breakfast Guard set out in the Breakfast Guards Journal...is not correct.

The deceased was not checked every 15 minutes in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures during the night of 4/5 September 2015. While the Inspector found that the inaccuracy in the records did not contribute to the deceaseds death, he called upon the governor to comprehensively address the incident.

Prisoner A (2016)

Prisoner A was 29-year-old man from the Dublin area who died by suicide in Mountjoy Prison on 13 February 2016, and was survived by his father, sisters, brothers and extended family.

Findings:The deceased was not checked between 02:33:57 and 04:35:20 which is in breach of the Irish Prison Service Standard Operating Procedures.

The Night Guard records created during the course of the night are wholly incomplete and are in breach of Standard Operating Procedures. The hand over of charge between officers at meal breaks or for any other reason were not recorded in the Night Guard Book.

The Governor should take appropriate action to deal with the non-compliance by staff with Irish Prison Service Policy and Standard Operating Procedures.

The poor level of record keeping should be addressed by the Irish Prison Service. This may require some In-Service training or some other on the job training as poor record keeping has been raised as a concern in a number of previous Death In Custody Reports.

Prisoner J

Prisoner J was a 21 year old man who died on 4 December 2016 in Mountjoy Prison, survived by his girlfriend and family.

Findings:The deceased self-harmed on several occasions while in custody and attempted to take his own life on a number of these occasions.

The deceased was not checked in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures every 15 minutes. He was found dead in his cell, having taken his own life.

Prison personnel, of all grades, must be aware that the management of special obs prisoners carries a high degree of responsibility and must ensure that the Standard Operating Procedures are complied with.
The longer a narrow and ignorant elite condemns humanity to wander in the political desert, the more likely it is we will all end up in a wasteland, writes Jeffrey Sachs.

Modern humans, born into one climate era, called the Holocene, have crossed the border into another, the Anthropocene.

But instead of a Moses guiding humanity in this new and dangerous wilderness, a gang of science deniers and polluters currently misguides humanity to ever-greater danger. We are all climate refugees now and must chart a path to safety.

The Holocene was the geological age that started more than 10,000 years ago, with favourable climate conditions that supported human civilisation as we know it. The Anthropocene is a new geological era with environmental conditions that humanity has never before experienced.

Ominously, the Earths temperature is now higher than during the Holocene, owing to the carbon dioxide that humanity has emitted into the atmosphere by burning coal, oil, and gas, and by indiscriminately turning the worlds forests and grasslands into farms and pastures.

People are suffering and dying in the new environment, with much worse to come. Hurricane Maria is estimated to have taken more than 4,000 lives in Puerto Rico last September.

High-intensity hurricanes are becoming more frequent, and major storms are causing more flooding, because of the increased heat transfer from the warming waters of the oceans, the greater moisture in warmer air, and the rise in sea levels  all made more extreme by human- induced climate change.

Just last month, more than 90 people perished in the suburbs of Athens from a devastating forest fire stoked by drought and high temperatures. Huge forest fires are similarly raging this summer in other hot and newly dry

locales, including California, Sweden, Britain, and Australia.

Last year, Portugal was devastated. Many record-high temperatures are being reached around the world this summer.

How utterly reckless of humanity to have rushed past the Holocene boundary, ignoring  like a character in a horror movie  all of the obvious warning signs.

In 1972, the worlds governments assembled in Stockholm to address the growing environmental threats. In the lead-up to the conference, the Club of Rome published The Limits to Growth, which first introduced the idea of a sustainable growth trajectory and the risks of environmental overshooting.

California Wildfires 2017.

Twenty years later, the warning signs flashed brightly in Rio de Janeiro, where UM member states assembled at the Earth Summit to adopt the concept of sustainable development and to sign three major environmental treaties to halt human-induced global warming, protect biological diversity, and stop land degradation and desertification.

After 1992, the US, the worlds most powerful country, ostentatiously ignored the t treaties, signalling to other countries that they could slacken their efforts as well.

The US Senate ratified the climate and desertification treaties but did nothing to implement them. And it

refused even to ratify the treaty to protect biological diversity, in part because western-state Republicans insisted that landowners have the right to do what they want with their property without international meddling.

More recently, the world adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in September 2015 and the Paris climate agreement in December 2015.

Yet, once again, the US government has willfully ignored the SDGs, ranking last among the G20 countries in terms of government implementation efforts. And US president Donald Trump has declared his intention to pull the US out of the Paris climate agreement at the earliest possible moment, 2020, four years after the accord entered into force.

Worse is to come. The human-caused rise in CO2 hasnt yet reached its full warming effect, owing to the significant lag in its impact on ocean temperatures. There is another 0.5C or so of warming to occur in the coming decades based on the current concentration of CO2 (408 parts per million) in the atmosphere, and far more warming beyond that if CO2 concentrations continue to soar with the business-as-usual burning of fossil fuels.

To achieve the Paris agreements goal of limiting warming to well below 2C relative to the pre-industrial level, the world needs to shift decisively from coal, oil, and gas to renewable energy by around 2050, and from deforestation to reforestation and restoration of degraded lands.

So why does humanity keep plunging dumbly ahead, toward certain tragedy?

The main reason is that our political institutions and giant corporations willfully ignore the rising dangers and damage.

Politics is about obtaining and holding power and the perks of office, not about solving problems, even life-and-death environmental problems. Managing a major company is about maximising shareholder value, not about telling the truth or avoiding great harm to the planet.

Profit-seeking investors own the major media, or at least influence it through their advertising purchases. Thus, a small yet very powerful group maintains the fossil-fuel-based energy system at growing peril to the rest of humanity today and in the future.

Donald Trump.

Trump is the latest useful fool doing the polluters bidding, abetted by congressional Republicans who finance their election campaigns with contributions from environmental culprits such as Koch Industries.

Trump has filled the US government with industry lobbyists who are systematically dismantling every environmental regulation they can reach. Most recently, Trump has nominated a former lawyer for mega-polluter Dow Chemical to lead the Environmental Protection Agencys Superfund toxic cleanup programme.

You cant make this stuff up.

We need a new kind of politics that starts with a clear global goal: Environmental safety for the planets people, by fulfilling the Paris climate agreement, protecting biodiversity, and cutting pollution, which kills millions each year.

The new politics will listen to scientific and technological experts, not self-interested business leaders and narcissistic politicians.

Climatologists enable us to gauge the rising dangers. Engineers inform us how to make the rapid transition, by 2050, to zero-carbon energy. Ecologists and agronomists show us how to grow more and better crops on less land while ending deforestation and restoring previously degraded land.

Such a politics is possible. In fact, the public yearns for it. A large majority of the American people, for example, want to fight global warming, stay in the Paris climate agreement, and embrace renewable energy.

Yet, as long as a narrow and ignorant elite condemns humanity to wander aimlessly in the political desert, the more likely it is that we will all end up in a wasteland from which there will be no escape.

Jeffrey D Sachs, professor of sustainable development and professor of health policy and management at Columbia University, is director of Columbias Center for Sustainable Development and of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.

His books include The End of Poverty, Common Wealth, The Age of Sustainable Development,

and, most recently, Building the New American Economy.
Liz Breen

The condom maker Durex is in brand crisis mode after it was forced to issue a recall of some of its products over fears they could split. Durex is not the first company to suffer from high profile product recalls.

There is no doubt that such episodes can cause lasting damage to a brands reputation but the fact is recalls happen.

Other global brands which have gone though much bigger issues have shown that if they are dealt with quickly and appropriately, a company can survive and prosper.

The Reckitt Benckiser Group plc (RBG) (the manufacturer of Durex condoms) is the latest business to fall foul of product deficiencies. It has recalled ten batches of Durex Real Feel condoms and Durex Latex Free condoms due to a risk that the condom might tear or leak, reducing its protection from sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy.

As a precautionary measure, we are recalling a few specific batches of Durex Real Feel and Durex Latex Free condoms. No other Durex products are affected. For more information please visit https://t.co/e553ZeNL0R / https://t.co/jHuBDdCACv https://t.co/T2Dbgqiebo pic.twitter.com/iFZbTlWAN4  Durex UK (@durexuk) July 31, 2018

Durex confirmed that a limited number had not passed its stringent shelf life durability tests and apologised.

A product recall can mean life or death to a business. Over the next few days, RBG will have to strategically coordinate how it manages the product recall to reduce any lasting damage to its reputation, brand and product value.

High profile brand issues

Product recalls are not new and occur in every sector where there is a threat to safety or life due to defective parts, unreliability of materials or quality assurance issues.

Research has shown that small companies can flounder, curl up and die with the onslaught of dealing with product recalls, customers, claims, returns and repairs.

Their cash flow and infrastructure cannot cope. It becomes all too much and bankruptcy looms.

For example, the recall of 1,000 toys cost small business owner Cynthia Thomas US$15,000 and nearly her business due to a drop in customers and sales.

Larger companies cope much better as they have deeper pockets, additional, non-affected assets and an army of resources at their disposal.

This is perhaps why the worlds biggest toymaker, Mattel, has coped better with a number of major recalls of Chinese-made products after lead was found in the paint of some toys.

And Durex as a brand can take comfort in the fact that the impact of product recalls is felt to be more short term than long.

Companies such as Toyota and Volkswagen have demonstrated that you can face huge catastrophes, the wrath of your customers and the sector, but still regain a strong place within the market.

In 2012, Toyota had 7.43m cars recalled globally while Volkswagen had to recall 11m vehicles after it admitted cheating on US emissions tests.

Both companies have managed to stay stable in the market despite the fact that their reputation has been dented on more than one occasion.

The public will always acknowledge that defective products exist, regardless of stringent operational systems, checks and balances. So what should RBG do to reduce the level of condemnation that it now faces?

Apologise quickly and take action

A company in this situation needs to act fast, taking immediate responsibility for its actions and deliver action, not rhetoric. An apology goes a long way to fixing the problem. Durex has made this important first step and said sorry to its customers and offered refunds.

The refund of product costs to customers is an expected response but the business may need to do more in order to avoid more damning repercussions  such as loss of sales, sponsorship and affiliations.

So an apology alone may not be enough. RBG will need to build up confidence in the brand through decisive action. One way to do this is to settle claims quickly.

The business needs to ensure that it proactively seeks out failed products  as opposed to waiting for them to come out of the woodwork. Companies which voluntarily address this issue, as opposed to being forced to by their customers, are much more likely to retain them.

An opposing view is that the need to act quickly may be seen as an admission of guilt and inflate anxiety in the marketplace. So RBG needs to tactfully handle all communications to present a positive image to the public.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has stated that pharmaceutical wholesalers will collect damaged stock immediately from pharmacies.

But customers are being asked to act responsibly and return products from their point of purchase. This can lead to a reduced number of returns as there is no collection mechanism and the customer has to make all the effort to return the product. The lure of refunded money may not be enough to make a return happen.

To address this, RBG could arrange for drop off points for the customers (convenient to them) or arrange for local collections, piggybacking on other delivery networks, like couriers, pharmaceutical wholesalers and the Royal Mail.

Looking ahead

In the future, RBG has to make its customers believe in the quality and safety of its product. For example, Rolls Royce was very transparent in its need to recall products in 2015  even when it affected just one car, a Rolls Royce Ghost which was recalled because of a problem with the side-impact airbags.

In doing so, customers were reassured that quality and safety were at the forefront of the business. RBG needs to adopt the same stance with Durex and its other products.

Condoms are a very popular product. In the Rio Olympics 2016, it was reported that the event lasted 17 days, had 10,500 athletes, 33 venues, and 450,000 condoms.

The amount allocated was three times more than in the London Olympics in 2012. As a product they provide a vital public health function and provide psychological and emotional support to people using them.

A good solid corporate reputation can withstand most business traumas. Companies in crisis have to work harder to be seen as a good business to buy from and trade with. RBG needs to think strategically, act responsibly and react quickly to stay in business and provide its products to the masses.

This article was written by Liz Breen of University of Bradford and was originally published on The Conversation

Read the original article here.
By Margaret Hickey

I was one of the planners of the 'Love and Life in Marriage Conference (marking the 50th Anniversary of Humanae Vitae) which took place last Saturday in Dublin and which has received not inconsiderable media attention.

Widespread media attention is of course often lacking where faith events are concerned unless there is something negative to report. This event was no exception. Reporting has been almost entirely focussed on some remarks made by Bishop Doran who opened the conference and introduced the speakers. In fact, interestingly, the story has now become the story of Health Minister, Simon Harris's reaction to the Bishop's comments which he has heard out of context.

He has not asked, to my knowledge, for the text of the address in question before commenting, and I doubt very much if he has read Humanae Vitae. Again, crossing the line that is supposed to separate Church from State, the Minister, in a tweet, tells the Bishop and by extension the Church that '...this must STOP'. What must stop apparently is the Church proclaiming and explaining its teaching to Catholics in forums like this.

Bishop Doran did say, as reported, that there is a connection between acceptance of same sex unions and contraceptive culture. Hardly extraordinary, as he is only making the fairly obvious point that when the unitive and procreative aspects of the spousal relationship are separated and the life giving capacity of sex no longer a dimension of the relationship, there is little to separate a same sex couple from a heterosexual one. He also said some interesting things about the real impact and cost of the sexual revolution as predicted by Humanae Vitae which I have not seen reported.

Please just make it stop! Increasing access to & availability of contraception is and will remain public health policy. Religion plays an important role for many on an individual basis - but it will not determine health and social policy in our country any more. Please get that. https://t.co/BMwIL4fNEE  Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) August 5, 2018

In speaking of the value of Humanae Vitae in an age where sex is commodified and reduced to the gratification of an appetite, the Bishop went on to say that there should be a place for explaining the rationale of church teaching on sexuality to young Catholics. This comment in particular seems to have attracted the ire of Simon Harris. He sees it as an attack on the state's obligation to provide, what he might consider, a fact based sex education. It is up to him and his government to devise whatever programmes they like. The Church can't stop them. However, within the Church's legitimate remit is the imparting of its doctrines to the faithful of all ages and anyone else who wants to listen. The Minister should not feel threatened by teaching that tells young people to abstain from sex outside marriage and to enter marriage with an openess to children. Surely that would be a good thing, in so far as it is effective, from the viewpoint of a secular government?

Bishop Of Elphin Dr Kevin Doran

The panel of expert speakers gave lengthy, reasoned and illuminating talks to an audience that was predominantly Catholic and disposed to listen to them. No one was compelled to attend. Neither is anyone obliged to follow what they heard. Following the teaching of the Church remains as always a choice for citizens unlike following the diktats of government.

There was a lot of fascinating input in the presentations of the expert panel which will be available to a wider audience in time through the loveandlife2018 webpage. The fact that the panel of three academic were all lay Catholics seems to have been overlooked by commentators.. Two of them, Dr Maria Meaney and Dr Maria Fedoryka, were women. There were also two lay people who offered testimonies about Humanae Vitae in terms of their life experience. The Conference was engaging and stimulating from beginning to end and the feedback from the attendance was enthusiastic.

For those who are not interested or disapproving, this is all part of the rich cultural and intellectual diversity of our country at this point. It is also part of a wider ideological diversity that is growing as other ethnicities and faiths join our society. If Minister Harris has problems with a conference of this kind, he better brace himself for some serious confrontations in time to come as not all those who are entering the mainstream of national life are as comfortable as he might like to think with his gospel of secular values.

Free speech and open debate means the Minister like everyone else is entitled to his views. That is until he calls, ' this must STOP. Get that'.

There are many things that should stop and many things that should never have started like withholding information about misdiagnoses from women with cervical cancer and pursuing them through the courts when they sought redress. And not taking responsibility as the man at the desk where the buck stops. All that and more. But free speech and open conferences are not among the things that need to stop. And a Minister in a democratically elected government should 'get that'
Dalit org, Kisan Sabha have called for bandh tomorrow.

Mumbai: The shops and markets all over Maharashtra are likely to remain shut on Thursday (August 9) in the wake of bandh called by several organisations. While Maratha Kranti Morcha (MKM) has called for a statewide sit-in protest demanding reservation for Marathas, Dalit organisations and Kisan Sabha have called for Bharat bandh on the same day.

The MKM has given call for peaceful statewide Thiyya (sit-in) agitation from August 9 to put more pressure on the state government for its demand of reservation. The agitation is planned in all corners of Mumbai as well as Maharashtra.

Similarly, different Dalit organisations and smaller groups have planned an agitation all over India on August 9. The agitation will be against Supreme Court order about SC/ST atrocity act. The Union government has already passed a proposal for amendments, but still the organisations are firm on agitation.

Last time Dalit organisations had declared Maharashtra bandh on January 3, over the issue of riots at Bhima Koregaon. During the agitation many incidents of violence were reported in the state. The police will have to be prepared looking at the sensitivity of the issue.

Meanwhile, both agitations will put heavy pressure on the state government to maintain law and order situation. MKM coordinators have already declared that their agitation will be peaceful. But looking at recent incidents of violence in state, police will have to be prepared for everything. Also, Mathadi labor union has declared that it wont participate in MKMs agitation.
From the Archive What We Were Fighting For

Burmese protesters in Rangoon in August 1988. / Richard Rothhaas / Reuters

Thirty years ago this week, demonstrations began across Burma demanding an end to the 26-year dictatorship of Gen. Ne Win. Eventually swelling to crowds of hundreds of thousands, the military government crushed the protests, killing thousands of people. In this article, first published in 2013, Irrawaddy founding editor Aung Zaw reflects on the lasting impacts of the 1988 pro-democracy movement.

CHIANG MAI, Thailand  It was 25 years ago that students led a massive uprising against military rule in Myanmaran event that has shaped an entire generation and affected virtually every person in the country. After 26 years of disastrous decline under the regime of Gen Ne Win, the people of Myanmar had had enough. Little did they know then, when victory had seemed so near, that it would be nearly the same number of years again before they would finally begin to see the end of the long, dark night of oppression.

As a student at that time, I can clearly remember the exhilaration of knowing that the entire nation was behind us, that we could not possibly lose. But we were wrong. Though people came out into the streets in their millions all over the country, the military would not stand down. Too accustomed to holding power, and believing that only they could lead the way out of the crisis that they had created, the generals gave the order: shoot, shoot to kill.

And so thousands of young lives were mown down, and with them, the hopes of an entire nation. Some fled to the jungle to take up arms or seek allies abroad, while others went underground to defy the new regime from within. For more than two decades, an undeclared war continued to ragea war on students, on the very people who had refused to lose faith in their countrys future.

They knocked on doors in the middle of the night: the military intelligence agents who didnt care about the sobbing parents as they dragged their children away with hoods over their heads. They tortured and imprisoned any who dared to speak out against the regime. And when they couldnt throw everyone who opposed them behind bars, the generals locked the gates to the universities, knowing they were breeding grounds for dangerous ideas, such as democracy and human rights.

Of course, students were not the only victims of the violence, which also targeted ethnic minorities and opposition politicians and affected everybody from poor farmers to rich businesspeople who fell afoul of the all-powerful generals. But it was students who were treated with the greatest distrust, because the weapons they wielded were their own minds, which refused to be yield to force.

Later, the junta refined its strategy for dealing with students: while keeping most campuses closed, it created new ones, banishing students to the distant outskirts of cities. Thus the prisons, home to some of Myanmars best minds, became in some ways the countrys most important centers of learning, while the universities, deprived of decent facilities and properly qualified instructors, became little more than holding centers for a dispossessed generation.

Now all of this has changed, or so we would like to believe. Students are no longer vilified in the state-run press, and most of Myanmars political prisoners have been freed. Some of the 88 activists are now politicians, media people or artists, all determined in their own way to keep their struggle for democracy alive. Those forced to flee have begun to return, looking for ways to help rebuild the country they never really left behind.

There is some hope in the air in Myanmar today, but it is nothing like that of 1988. Then, it was possible to believe that the country could easily return to the days when, before the coup of 1962, it was seen as the most promising in the region. Now, there is half a century of rubble to remove before rebuilding can even begin.

But perhaps it isnt necessary to clear away every remnant of the recent past, as we tried to do in 1988. Perhaps as we reclaim the space that was taken away from us and learn again how to speak openly, without fear of our overlords, we can, in the process, dismantle the legacy of military rule.

Does anybody really believe that the former generals who now rule Myanmar understand the meaning of democracy? Probably not. But perhaps it doesnt really matter, as long as we are all determined to make what use we can of the little freedom we now have to create a nation based on respect for the rights of its people, rather than on dread of its despotic rulers.

This does not mean that we can forget the past, especially when its effects are still very much with us. Those who sacrificed their lives must be remembered, not only by their loved ones, but by the nation as a whole. But this can only happen in a country with real leadership. Until Myanmar has leaders who can acknowledge the past, the road to a better future will be strewn with obstacles.

These days, the way forward looks particularly daunting. Despite numerous ceasefires, conflicts in the countrys north remain unresolved because of the current governments refusal to accommodate the desire of ethnic minorities for greater self-determination. Meanwhile, religious riotsevidently backed by some still in power todayare hurting the countrys efforts to rejoin the international community after decades of isolation.

Myanmar wont be able to recover from its long years of abuse at the hands of its rulers on its own. It would truly be a tragedyand a betrayal of the spirit of 1988if agents of hatred and intolerance succeeded in robbing the people of Myanmar of the respect they have earned in the eyes of the world for their tireless struggle for democracy. Only by continuing to resist the forces of ignorance and brutality will we be able to win the war on students, and on the minds of all Myanmar citizens.

Aung Zaw is the founding editor of the Irrawaddy. This story first appeared in the August 2013 print issue of The Irrawaddy magazine.
From the Archive In 1988, A Brief Renaissance for Myanmars Journalists

Independent newspapers, published in August and September 1988, describe the pro-democracy protests. Leading activist Min Ko Naing is pictured in the photograph on top. / The Irrawaddy

On the 30th anniversary of the pro-democracy uprising of 1988, The Irrawaddy revisits this 2013 article revealing a silver lining of the demonstrations, despite the brutal crackdown which was to follow: a brief return of press freedom to a country that had been muzzled by a literary censorship system for 26 years.

RANGOON  Hmyar Ni still remembers how his nearly 10-member editorial team crowded around a small attic in Burmas biggest city to write articles and lay out his daily newspaper, Our Cause, 25 years ago.

It was late August 1988, several days after the government brutally cracked down on pro-democracy protesters trying to topple then-dictator Gen Ne Wins regime. Outside the newspaper bureau, the streets of downtown Rangoon had ground to a halt, as the country trembled with the peoples determination to oust a dictator who had oppressed them since 1962.

The days were chaotic but had a silver lining: a brief return of press freedom to a country that had been muzzled by a literary censorship system for the past 26 years. Newshounds like Hmyar Ni and his friends ventured out to report and publish independent newspapers, taking advantage of the governments inability to restore Burma to normalcy.

Starting around mid-August 1988, newspaper boys hawked morning and evening papers featuring photographs and accounts of ongoing demonstrations against the Burmese authoritarian government. Some editions were handwritten and then photocopied or mimeographed, while others were professionally printed.

As far as Im concerned, there may have been more than three dozen dailies and weeklies like us at that time in Rangoon the 64-year old Hmyar Ni said.

It was the first return of privately owned daily news publications in modern Burmese history, long before the resurrection of todays private dailies in April with permission from the quasi-civilian government. The Southeast Asian country had lost freedom of expression after the 1962 coup, when Ne Win shut down nearly two dozen private papers and established a draconian censorship board to ban anything that would disgrace his government.

The resurrection of independent publications in 1988 was short lived, however. The newspapers published only from mid-August to Sept.18, when a new military government came to power.

We just grabbed the chance we had at the time, said 77-year-old Maung Moe Thu, editor of the Warazein news weekly, which lasted four weeks. We enjoyed freedom of expression during that short period because there was no longer censorship.

His weekly was in broadsheet format, while other editors opted for tabloids. Like many newspapers at the time, his paper sought to oppose dictatorship by covering ongoing democracy movements across the country. Sales soared as the public heartily welcomed a chance to learn more about the demonstrations.

Any move against the government became news, Hmyar Ni from Our Cause daily said with a laugh. Everyone became reporters overnight because they were always calling to give us information.

Win Tin, a veteran journalist and co-founder of the countrys main opposition party, the National League for Democracy (NLD), said the 1988 newspapers became voices of the 88 Uprising by documenting the wishes of the public. He added that some entrepreneurial editors made lucrative businesses from the brief return of press freedom, referring to newspapers that published graphic photographs and unethical stories about the demonstrations.

As a whole, you could hear peoples voices and find out how much they disliked the government in those papers, he said. It was the first time they could unleash their anger.

Mandalay, the second-biggest city in Burma, also saw a boom of independent newspapers. Hsu Nget, a Mandalay-based writer, recalls that nearly 30 privately owned papers hit newsstands in the city. Among them was the Four-Eights dailynamed after the 8/8/88 uprising, or the 88 Uprisingwhere he worked as an editor.

People had a hunger for news, he said. They really wanted to know what was happening, and where. They had to rely on Burmese services from the BBC or VOA [Voice of America], but at that time not everyone could afford to buy a radio, so they turned to our newspapers.

Among those who embraced the brief return of press freedom were journalists from the governments six daily newspapers, which usually served as propaganda tools for the state. Several days after the country took to the streets on Aug. 8, journalists at these papers restored their first loyalty to the public.

We publicly announced that we had left behind censorship and were now with the Burmese people, said Ko Ko Gyi, who was then editing The Mirror daily, one of the state-run papers. We told them to wait and see tomorrows paper.

They kept their promise, with full coverage the next day of demonstrations across the country. When Burmas democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi made her first public appearance at an open ground near Shwedagon Pagodas western stairway on Aug. 25, Ko Ko Gyi allocated a spot on his front page for the story.

The press freedom came to an abrupt end on Sept. 18. At 4 pm that day, a male announcer on the state-run Burma Broadcasting Service (BBS) proclaimed that in order to bring a timely halt to deteriorating conditions all over the country.  in the interests of the people, the defense forces have assumed all power in the state, effective from today. The broadcasters regular programs were then interrupted by strident martial music.

With news of the military coup, nearly all independent newspapers quickly shut down their operations for fear of retribution. Editors burned the draft layouts they had prepared for the next days papers and went into hiding. Photojournalists looked for secret places to stash away the negatives of photographs that had captured historic moments from the previous month.

Soldiers arrived at The Mirrors bureau in downtown Rangoon at 2 am on Sep 19.

They stormed into our office to confiscate dummies for the next days paper and seal the office, Ko Ko Gyi said. Then they kicked us out!

Shortly after the generals in olive green uniforms came to power, military intelligence officers combed through the country to arrest anyone who had been involved in publishing the newspapers. But to peoples surprise, the journalists were only detained temporarily for interrogation.

To the best of my knowledge, people werent seriously punished for publishing the newspapers, Hmyar Ni said. For my paper, only a few senior editors were taken away for questioning. They were released very soon. He himself was spared from detention.

Ko Ko Gyi was not so fortunate. He was arrested three days after the coup and taken to an interrogation center, where he spent the next 20 days. Upon his release, he was forced to retire from his job. He was 54 years old, or six years shy of official retirement.

Now 77, the veteran journalist doesnt seem remorseful about the decisions he made more than two decades ago.

Im proud of what I did, he told The Irrawaddy.

For me, it was the time when we suddenly saw a flash of light after 26 years of darkness.
From the Archive Making Revolution Happen

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Award-winning journalist Christopher Gunness, a former BBC correspondent, was in Myanmar during the nationwide pro-democracy uprising in 1988. He conducted clandestine radio interviews with several Myanmar students and activists that were broadcast to millions across the country, and the military government accused the reports of triggering the August uprising. The Irrawaddy caught up with him in 2003 via email and asked about his reporting experiences from 1988. Now, as the country commemorates the 30th anniversary of the uprising, we look back at what he had to say.

When you worked in Burma as a reporter in 1988, did you get the sense that the sporadic student protests early in the year would flare up into a nationwide uprising?

I was in no doubt at all that Burma was a bomb waiting to explode; the only questions in my mind were, When and what would be the trigger? In 1987 there had been sporadic trouble because of the demonetization, and the students were clearly aggrieved during the early months of 88. I firmly believe Ne Win also felt that huge problems were going to flare up, unless he acted. Im not suggesting that he was acting without self-interest, but in a pragmatic way, to protect his own interests. I believe he knew there would be major challenges to his rule unless he did something boldwhich is exactly what he did, in announcing multi-party democracy and a pluralist economy. He recognized the problem, but like the administrations he spawned, had neither the will, ability, decency or imagination to find a solution.

You interviewed female students who said they were raped in prison, but the government later exposed the charges as a total fabrication, and many activists back those claims. Do you still believe the stories of your interviewees? How did it affect your work as a professional reporter?

I have no doubt at all that the women I met had been raped. Their body language was unmistakable, and having met rape victimssubsequently in the Balkansthere are no doubts in my mind at all. The treatment of these women has also been confirmed subsequently by several unimpeachable sources. As far as government accusations are concerned, nothing the generals say will ever affect my work, except to make me more determined to keep them accountable to world opinion, if not to the people of Burma itself. I have been the subject of frequent vitriolic attacks and I take this as the highest possible compliment. It is a continued sign that my reporting is accurate and that the truth continues to irk the Burmese generals and those in East Asian governments who continue to support them.

What frustrations and regrets did you experience working as a journalist covering Burma from Rangoon?

The greatest frustration and regret is for my friends in Burma who have suffered so much. And I regret the fact that the international community has done so little to promote change. There has always been a cause of greater interest to the men who really run the world, in Washington, European capitals and in places like Tokyo and Beijing. Iraq, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan or wherever has always forced Burma off the international agenda. But I think things are changing, and since Iraq, toleration for rogue states is diminishing. And while I find the methodology of the hawks in Washington problematic, if their agenda of promoting American liberal values all over the world is followed to its logical conclusion, this can only be of benefit, ultimately to Burma.

Are you still blacklisted from visiting Burma? Have you tried to return? Do you want to? If you could, what would you do?

Yes, I am banned. I have had it made clear to me by ambassadors in London that a visa application would not be successful. However, I have been across the border through Thailand on one occasion, but it is very frustrating not being able to go to Rangoon. If I could visit, I would be extremely careful about who I spoke to, as I have little doubt that the military intelligence would arrest anyone talking to me. If I could go, Id try to report on aspects of Burma that touch peoples lives rather than bang on about democracy and human rights. Although human rights are important, I would like to tell some human stories about how people have survived through 15 years of oppression. The story of modern Burma is a story about the enduring nature of the human spirit. The struggle for democracy is only one aspect of that.

Both dissidents and the regime acknowledge that your reports during the build-up to the uprising played a key role in triggering the publics outrage. How do you feel now that the name Christopher Gunness has become part of the 8.8.88 legend? What was your role as a reporter?

The truth is that I feel very embarrassed for several reasons. Firstly, I think it is wrong. People were already outraged, not by my reporting, but by what the government was doing. To suggest that what outraged over 40 million people was the reportage of a very inexperienced BBC reporter is to miss the point about what was happening and to diminish the role of the Burmese people in those events. The Burmese people themselves rose up. They are the true heroes of 1988. All I did was report on it. Secondly, to overplay my role in the 88 events is to play into the hands of the generals. It is all too easy for a corrupt, inefficient and greedy government to blame a single reporter. It suggests that the problem is not them, but a foreignera classic but crass attempt to find an external scapegoat. In addition, it subtly plays on old fears and memories in East Asia about British colonialism. What I did was not neo-colonial; however, much the government would like to believe that the BBC has a specific agenda in Burma. It does not. It is my role as a reporter and the BBCs role as an international broadcaster, to hold a mirror up to Burma. If the generals dont like what they see, they have only themselves to blame.

What is your assessment of the current situation in Burma? Do you see any parallels with 1988?

When a place is an information black hole, it is almost impossible to say anything meaningful about it. How can one assess the situation in Burma, when the government controls information so tightly and where the opposition isnt free to operate and talk to journalists? But I do think the situation is different now. In 88 there was a genuine question mark over the decency of the army and about whether the army would bow to the overwhelming will of the people who it served. That question mark was dramatically removed when in September 88, the army showed that it was prepared to slaughter thousands of people, including unarmed women and children. And today, that remains the reality. So I think it unlikely that there could be a popular uprising like 1988. But on the positive side, I think the international climate is changing. US-led action in Iraq and Afghanistan does serve notice to tyrants everywhere that they could be next. And once the argument shifted away from weapons of mass destruction to the human rights record of Saddam Hussein, it was easier to hope that those who violate international humanitarian law, like the generals in Rangoon, will be held to account.

In commemoration of the 15th anniversary of 8.8.88, can you share some of your memories of Burmas struggle for democracy?

I remember the kindness and bravery of the Burmesethose who contacted me clandestinely and, in spite of the all-pervasive military intelligence, risked their own lives to help me. And of course I remember my Burmese friends who have suffered and died.

Do you have any words for the people of Burma?

A: Thats a bit grand, isnt it? But if I have a message at all, it is that no suffering is ever in vain. Looking back through history, even the mightiest of empires, with their lofty values and noble institutions, come to an end. And the Burmese regime is anything but mighty and lofty. It is bankrupt, literally and intellectually. The other thing I would want to stress is that though it must often feel horribly isolated to be Burmese, the outside world is actually looking. People are recording your suffering and the deeds of the Burmese generals, and when justice comes, as it inevitably will, the world will be prepared.

This interview was originally published by The Irrawaddy on September 1, 2003.
From the Archive Memories of 8.8.88

The cover story, Memories of 8.8.88', as it appeared in The Irrawaddy Magazine's August 2008 issue

To mark the 32nd anniversary of the 88 uprising this month, we revisit a foreign journalists recollection of clandestine visits to Myanmar to report on the country during an historic period of upheaval. It was originally published in the August 2008 issue of The Irrawaddy Magazine.

WORD reached Bangkok in late August 1987 that the Burmese economy was grinding to a standstill, and that the rice harvest could be compromised by weak rainfalls in some areas. As a reporter who liked to operate alone, I was assigned by Asiaweek, the Hong Kong-based newsweekly, to slip into the country. I would get no byline, no credit, not much pay, but a lot of satisfaction.

It was a memorable week. I made it up to Mandalay on my own, just in time for what some believed was the heaviest rainfall since the end of World War II. These things are hard to gauge, of course, but there was no mistaking the joy the people felt at the suddenly rain-swollen paddy fields. I returned to Rangoon and the care of my wonderful Burmese translator and fixer.

He graciously introduced me to his family, fed me in his home, took me everywhere, persuaded an unwitting former minister of education to buy me a beer and even smuggled me to the ancient capital of Pegu for an audience with His Holiness Eindhasara, or Sayadawgyi, as he was addressed with both affection and respect.

At 91, as head of the Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, he was the most senior monk in the land and had been abbot of the same temple since 1941. He had never met a foreign journalist before, but even so, for him the encounter was a minor curiosity. For me it was an unexpected honora kind of benediction.

My fixers father suddenly took ill. He was reduced to chasing around Rangoon in a desperate search for medicine that could only be found on the black market, if at all. I had already witnessed scuffles that week near a train that was carrying rice into the countryside. When I returned to Bangkok, I knew that even with a few beneficent cloud bursts, times were tougher than ever for ordinary Burmese people and something was brewing behind the scenes.

As it turned out, I had missed one of the countrys biggest stories in decades by one day. Student-led demonstrations unexpectedly broke out on September 5 when the government demonetized large denomination bank notes without warning. There was no hint of the demonetization from anyone during my week inside the country. It was nothing more than state-sanctioned theft. Many people lost their meager savings in one swift stroke.

In the intervening 20 years, the authorities seem to have learned almost nothing about public relations and financial management. In August 2007again without warningthey suddenly laid down huge increases in diesel and petrol prices, driving the long-suffering populace to the edge once more. There were massive demonstrations again, spearheaded by columns of monks, particularly in Rangoon where up to 100,000 people took to the streets.

Back in 1988, the pressure for much larger nationwide demonstrations had been building through a succession of incidents in Rangoon teashops and outlying areas. Stoking the popular discontent among even the most tolerant of people was a growing realization: Breathtaking economic mismanagement during General Ne Wins years following the 1962 coup had reduced a fundamentally wealthy nation to pauper status. The UN had classified Burma as a least developed country. Aung Gyi, a disillusioned former member of General Ne Wins Revolutionary Council, added to the discontent through a series of public, widely disseminated, critical letters.

Average people yearned for democracy, freedom and the other benefits of more politically advanced countries. But first they wanted to eat and dress better, to educate their children, read newspapers, travel, look after their sick and put a proper roof over their heads. In 1988, the demands were uncomplicated and entirely reasonable. Yet in 2008, they still remain unmet.

By July 1988, the discontent was starting to boil over. There was no question that major demonstrations would erupt. Towards the end of the month, Ne Win finally resigned as chairman of the inept Burma Socialist Programme Party. His strange parting words were a call for multi-party democracy followed with a dire warning that the Burmese Army would never hesitate to shoot demonstrators. Ne Win was always bigger on sticks than carrots.

Foreign journalists and photographers had been entering Burma all through the month from Bangkok, trying to figure out when the volcano would blow. With only a seven-day visa available, timing was everything. Nobody was there officially and filing stories was a nightmare. Much of the underground student activity was carried out on campuses and in the pavilions around the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda in the center of the city. Just like today, small groups would rally, and then people would post revolutionary messages around the city. Everybody knew it was coming.

Although the harshest, anti-government sentiment was passed on by word of mouth, it was the BBC that finally communicated one of the most crucial pieces of information: the demonstrations would begin on the morning of August 8, in other words on 8/8/88.

The report came from a young correspondent, Christopher Gunness. Though it was a first-rate piece of news reporting precisely reflecting the word on the street, the Burmese authorities have since attempted to misrepresent it as evidence of some kind of international conspiracy. The BBC did not call for demonstrations. It merely announced the date they were due to begin. That did, of course, make it pretty official. Nobody believed a word in the state mediaeverybody listened to the BBC. Indeed, the Burmese Services postbag was reputed to receive as much mail as the rest of the corporations broadcast services put together.

Later, I often filed freelance reports for the BBCs Burmese Service. However, I lost count of the number of Burmese I disappointed by confessing that I was not the legendary Gunness. Being anonymous was everything in those days. Journalists in the country at that time usually had as little to do with each other as possible.

The first serious demonstration in Rangoon actually occurred early on the afternoon of August 3. It took me completely by surprise as it swept down Shwedagon Pagoda Road towards the city center and then turned east going past Sule Pagoda and City Hall, before sweeping around to roar back past the Indian and US embassiesthe worlds largest and most powerful democracies, respectively.

As a display of raw courage it was spine-tingling, but pretty difficult to photograph. Demonstrators were initially not keen about having their pictures taken. They covered their faces and sometimes pushed my camera away. An Australian diplomat with a camera was threatened with having his car set on fire, and some Burmese photographers suspected of working for military intelligence were beaten up. Even so, there were no security forces in sight and no attempt was made to stop the demonstration, which faded into the wet afternoon with astonishing speed.

That night, however, the junta declared martial law. The next day troops with colored bandanas, fixed bayonets and shotguns were out on the streets in force. I had no idea what would actually transpire on 8/8/88, but I suspected that if there was to be confrontation it would be in the vicinity of Sule Pagoda and City Hall.

I was staying at my favorite haunt, The Strand Hotel, and I began making arrangements to move to a guesthouse near the old Burma Tourist office. It was incredibly dingy, but it had a grand view over the road encircling the pagoda, Maha Bandoola Park and City Hall.

It was indeed in this area that the first shootings on 8/8/88 took place. A crowd that had been allowed to demonstrate peacefully all day refused to disperse, and troops opened fire.

However, I was not there to see it. I had already been ordered out of the country by my editors who were fearful that they would have no first-hand material to print from the first week of August if I remained. I very reluctantly left on August 6, but not without an official inquisition at Mingaladon Airport about the quantity of film and cameras I was carrying. As I left, I spotted my replacement and two other friends pushing their way through the blue cheroot fumes and chaos in the arrival area. The photographer in the group was arrested on August 9 and deported.

I spent a frustrating time back in Bangkok, gathering photos and accounts of the drama unfolding in Burma without any obvious sign of a resolution. An estimated 3,000 civilians were killed and many more wounded in the aftermath of 8/8/88.

Outraged diplomats had dispensed what little medicine they could find, while hospitals were left virtually empty, particularly upcountry. Many injured people believed it was safer to stay out of sight at home, even with life-threatening wounds.

Opposition leaders, including Aung San Suu Kyi, Tin Oo, Aung Gyi, U Nu and student leader Min Ko Naing, had emerged but they were not a cohesive group. There was nothing remotely credible to replace the lame-duck, temporary government of Dr. Maung Maung, a once respected lawyer and intellectual who had become Ne Wins hagiographer.

By the second week of September, it was clear that the unending demonstrations were going nowhere. The military was biding its time, waiting to strike back decisively. One of the very few foreign journalists in the country departed on September 17 completely unaware of the imminent coup that was to follow.

When I finally managed to fly back to Rangoon a few days after the bloody September 18 coup, the city was in shock.

I spent the next fortnight getting to know as many of the key players as possible. I tried to piece together the incomplete political jigsaw puzzle. The city was broken and dark, with a curfew still in place. There were military roadblocks everywhere and rebellious suburbs such as North and South Okkalapa were locked down and unreachable.

On October 1, I was back at Sule Pagoda. A dozen or so Hino army trucks had pulled up near City Hall and disgorged troops from the 22nd Light Infantry Division. They had been standing at attention all morning in the blazing sun with bayonets locked. An officer with a large bowie knife strapped to his thigh sat on a park wall behind them. The show of implied force was intended to signal the end of the lingering general strikeand it succeeded.

Nothing moved on the streets, and it was impossible not to be seen. I had a good view of the scene from inside the pagodas portico. In the background, a Christian church was pockmarked with bullet holes. I remember reaching into my bag for my camera. Immediately, figures darted from the shadows and challenged me. Burmas ubiquitous spy network had resurrected itself. I gathered up my bag and walked out behind the ranks of troops in their baking steel helmets and past the officer sitting silently in the shade. Something told me that a chat and a smoke werent in the cards.

I overstayed my visa by a full week. Being one of the few foreigners in the country at the time, it was reasonable to assume I had been identified as a journalist but no one made a move against me. I was even able to meet and interview the elusive student leader Min Ko Naing in a suburban safe house on my last day. At the airport, I received a token fine, tipped the immigration officer US $10 for his civility and left.

The overstay was well worth it. I had filed a constant stream of reports to Asiaweekwhich ran an astonishing 12 consecutive Burma covers during this tumultuous period. Once outside the country, I continued filing exclusive reports and interviews with all the key opposition figures.

In my last days, I had also made contact with the newly formed Election Commission. It was that first, tentative encounter with a government organization that encouraged me to apply for an interview with Sen-Gen Saw Maung, the chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council.

The interview was eventually granted in January 1989, and it was a strange experience indeed. I returned with an official visa. I was met by a military intelligence officer, whisked through formalities, assigned a 24-hour minder and chauffeured off to The Strand.

Ohn Gyaw, the de facto foreign minister, was waiting to greet me in the lobby, which had just been repainted but still showed considerable signs of dilapidation. He briefed me on the senior generals sense of humor and strong sense of family. Upstairs, Col Thein Swe, a senior aide to intelligence chief Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt, was waiting to continue my briefing. He had evidently been reading my secret file.

You seem to like our country, he said. Is this your second or third visit?

Thirteenth, actually, I said.

He looked stunned. In the land of numerology, it turned out to be my lucky number.
News 580-Million-Kyat Claim Submitted For Polishing of Parliament Doors

Polished teak is used to decorate parliamentary buildings. / Htet Naing Zaw / The Irrawaddy

NaypyitawA Union Parliament investigation committee has found that an expense claim submitted to the parliament for the polishing of teak doors and other such fittings in the parliamentary buildings is three times the market cost.

A total of 580 million kyats ($347,000) was spent on polishing the teak doors as part of the annual maintenance of the parliamentary buildings for the 2017-2018 fiscal year.

An investigative body was formed after the chairman of the Joint Administrative Committee and deputy speaker of the Lower House, U Aye Tha Aung, questioned the expense during a meeting of the panel in April.

The investigation committee, led by lawmaker Daw Yin Min Hlaing of Magwes Gangaw Township, found that the varnish was substandard and flaked off in some places. Further, it found the actual cost was just one-fourth of the bill submitted to parliament.

A report of the findings has been submitted to the speakers of the Union Parliament.

Leaders will make the decision. I made a technical investigation together with committee members who are engineers-turned-lawmakers, Daw Yin Min Hlaing told reporters in Naypyitaw on Monday.

The Construction Ministrys Department of Human Settlement and Housing Development is responsible for certain maintenance tasks of the presidential residence and parliamentary buildings including polishing the teak doors.

The team has questioned officials of the Human Settlement and Housing Development involved in the polishing of the teak doors.

According to Daw Yin Min Hlaing, the expense of polishing the teak doors was not paid from the budget of the Union Parliament, but from the budget of the Construction Ministry.

Ive called for setting a separate budget for maintenance works of the parliament, instead of using the Construction Ministrys budget, she said.

Now, when I look to lay blame, they [Construction Ministrys officials] take cover behind their ministry. And the ministry doesnt pressure them [to explain]. There is weakness in the administration of the staff there. And money is wasted as a result.

The ministry also made an internal investigation some two months ago, and submitted its own report to parliament, said U Myint Zaw, the ministrys deputy director-general,.

We checked if the amount and prices of polish were correct, and submitted our report to the speaker of the Union Parliament. Its up to the leaders to decide, said U Myint Zaw, who is also a spokesperson for the Construction Ministry.

Well make sure there is no such waste in the future, said U Aung Thaik, a member of the Joint Administrative Committee.

For the 2018-19 fiscal year, the Lower House alone has asked for a total budget of 9.4 billion kyats.
Asia Bangladesh Protests Spur Cabinet to Toughen Punishment for Traffic Deaths

Students shout slogans during a protest over recent traffic accidents that killed a boy and a girl in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Sunday. / Reuters

DHAKA  Bangladeshs cabinet on Monday approved raising the maximum jail time for rash driving deaths to five years from three, the law minister said, as students protested for a ninth day over the deaths of two teenagers killed by a speeding bus in Dhaka.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who faces an election due by the end of the year, has accused her political rivals of trying to stir up anti-government sentiment using the deaths as a pretext. The opposition has denied involvement.

The crowded capital of 18 million has been paralyzed by angry students demanding changes to transport laws following the July 29 deaths after the driver of a privately operated bus lost control and ran over a group of college students in an alleged race for passengers with another bus.

As per the proposed law, an accused has to face five years of jail for negligent driving [leading to death], Law Minister Anisul Huq told reporters after a cabinet meeting chaired by Hasina.

The deliberate running over of people will draw murder charges and carry the death sentence, he added. Parliaments approval for the proposal to become law is seen as a formality, since Hasinas ruling Awami League has an overwhelming majority.

Defying government warnings to end the protests, some university students on Monday threw bricks at police and others tried to take processions through the city.

Police fired tear gas and used water cannon to disperse protesters, as students have stopped vehicles, demanding to check drivers licenses and their vehicles roadworthiness.

Police said they were still investigating Sundays attack on a car carrying the US ambassador by a group of armed men, some riding motorcycles. There were no injuries but two vehicles were damaged.

The US Embassy said it was not in a position to comment until the investigation was complete. Ambassador to Bangladesh Marcia Bernicat was returning from dinner at the time of the attack.

Earlier the embassy had criticized the police crackdown on the protesters, whom it described as having united and captured the imagination of the whole country.

Last week police beat some students in their efforts to disperse them.

Arrest

Police have arrested social activist and photographer Shahidul Alam, who had posted comments that a student wing of Hasinas ruling party was trying to attack the protesters.

Alams organization, Drik Picture Library, said 30 to 35 men in plainclothes swept into his Dhaka apartment building, saying they were police detectives, and took him into custody.

Alam was screaming as he was forced into a car, it quoted security guards at the building as saying.

Dhakas additional deputy commissioner of police, Obaidur Rahman, said Alam was arrested on charges of spreading rumors on social media, aiming to incite violence.

Rights group Amnesty International called for Alams immediate and unconditional release, saying he was held after an interview to Al-Jazeera English on the Dhaka protests.

There is no justification whatsoever for detaining anyone for solely peacefully expressing their views, Omar Waraich, Amnestys deputy South Asia director, said in a statement.

The Bangladeshi government must end the crackdown on the student protesters and people speaking out against it.

Traffic laws are poorly enforced and the students blame the private bus network for mishaps in a city choked by massive traffic jams.

Road accidents kill 12,000 people and cause 35,000 injuries in Bangladesh each year, says the Accident Research Institute of state-run Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology.

Sheikh Shafi, a polytechnic student injured in a protest on Saturday, said one problem was that bus drivers must work long hours as they do not receive monthly salaries but are paid commissions based on passenger numbers instead.

Our demand is that the owners must appoint them and they will work a maximum of 10 hours. The commission-based system must be eliminated, said Shafi, whose brother died in a road accident in 2015.
Asia North Korea, US Spar Over Nuclear Deal at Singapore Forum

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo shakes hands with North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho at the Asean Regional Forum Retreat in Singapore on Saturday. / Reuters

SINGAPORE  North Korea and the United States on Saturday sparred over an agreement reached at a landmark summit in June for the Asian country to end its nuclear program, as Washington called for maintaining sanctions pressure against Pyongyang, which in turn said it was alarmed by US intentions.

The discord at a regional forum in Singapore was the latest reminder of the difficulties that have long impaired efforts to negotiate an end to North Koreas nuclear and missile programs, despite commitments made at an unprecedented summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the city state less than two months ago.

The DPRK stands firm in its determination and commitment for implementing the DPRK-US Joint Statement in a responsible and good-faith manner, North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho told the ASEAN Regional Forum, using his countrys official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.

What is alarming, however, is the insistent moves manifested within the US to go back to the old, far from its leaders intention, he said.

Ri made the statement after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had left the Singapore conference center for Indonesia having pressed Southeast Asian nations to maintain sanctions on North Korea until it gives up a nuclear weapons program that now threatens the United States.

At the June 12 summit, Kim, who is seeking relief from tough sanctions, committed to work towards denuclearization, but North Korea has offered no details on how it might go about this.

Pompeo suggested on Friday that continued work on weapons programs by North Korea was inconsistent with Kims commitment to denuclearize. On Saturday, he nevertheless said he was optimistic a North Korean denuclearization could be achieved although it would take some time.

Ri said North Korea had made goodwill gestures, including a moratorium on nuclear tests and rocket launches and the dismantling of a nuclear test ground.

However, the United States, instead of responding to these measures, is raising its voice louder for maintaining the sanctions against the DPRK and showing the attitude to retreat even from declaring the end of the war, a very basic and primary step for providing peace on the Korean peninsula, he said.

On Saturday, Pompeo said Washington took very seriously any relaxation of UN sanctions, calling out Russia for possibly violating a UN resolution by issuing work visas to North Korean workers.

Warning to Moscow

I want to remind every nation that has supported these resolutions that this is a serious issue and something that we will discuss with Moscow, he said. We expect the Russians and all countries to abide by the UN Security Council resolutions and enforce sanctions on North Korea.

Russia has denied a report by the Wall Street Journal that said Moscow was allowing thousands of fresh North Korean laborers into the country and granting them work permits in a potential breach of UN sanctions.

Russias ambassador to North Korea also denied Moscow was flouting UN restrictions on oil supplies to North Korea.

According to a confidential UN report seen by Reuters on Friday, North Korea has not stopped nuclear and missile programs in violation of United Nations sanctions.

Although Pompeo has been leading US negotiating efforts with North Korea, he had no formal meeting with Ri in Singapore. However, at a group photo session on Saturday, he walked up to the North Korean and shook hands and exchanged words and smiles.

He told Ri, We should talk again soon, the State Department said.

I agree, there are many productive conversations to be had, Ri replied, according to the State Department.

Pompeo later tweeted that it had been a quick, polite exchange and there had been the opportunity to deliver a letter for Kim Jong Un from Trump.

US Ambassador Sung Kim handed Ri the letter, which the State Department said was in return for one from Kim to Trump that the White House said was received on Wednesday. The State Department has not said what is in Trumps letter to Kim.

Trump posted a note on Twitter on Thursday thanking Kim for returning the remains of US soldiers from the Korean War and saying he looked forward to seeing Kim again soon, although the White House said no second meeting was currently planned.

It is not the first time since the summit that North Korea has appeared to offer a more negative impression of the progress of talks with the United States that Washington.

Following a trip to Pyongyang in July, Pompeo spoke of progress. But as soon as he had left the country, North Korea accused him of gangster-like diplomacy, casting doubts about the future of the discussions.

Even so, Trump has continued to hail progress, emphasizing the halt in bomb and missile tests and North Koreas return of purported American war remains.

A senior State Department official sought to play down Ris statement, saying it was to be expected.

Much of the intervention was positive and thats an improvement from the past, the official said. Were building a relationship with North Korea after years of difficult relations.

Since US talks with North Korea resumed this year, Pompeo has primarily engaged with Kim Yong Chol, a top North Korean party official and former spy agency chief, not Ri.

Pompeo told a Senate committee hearing on July 25 that North Korea was continuing to produce fuel for nuclear bombs in spite of its denuclearization pledge.

On Monday, a senior US official said US spy satellites had detected renewed activity at the North Korean factory that produced the countrys first intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the United States.
Pakistan, therefore, prefers to offer positive incentives to the Taliban to join a US-led peace process in Afghanistan.

GOVERNING Pakistan is an unenviable task in the best of times, not least when the country is faced with an economic meltdown and a diplomatic squeeze. The solution to both is intrinsically linked  with the United States holding one of the keys to relieving the pain. Incoming Prime Minister Imran Khan isnt going to have an easy time managing this account.

In his otherwise mature, conciliatory, and inspirational victory speech, his take on the US relationship is the one aspect that left me concerned. He was in the usual Pakistani vein on this one, implying that Pakistan had been mistreated and that the relationship needed to be mutually beneficial and balanced. I would have glossed over it, but Khan feels passionately about this and may want to press the issue with Washington. If he does, hell find himself in a rather impossible position.

His victory wasnt Washingtons preferred option. Much of what is said and thought of him is tied to his disparaging stance on the US war in Afghanistan and his sympathetic views towards the Afghan Taliban. Several columns written on him in the Western press since the elections have also tended to highlight his negatives.

People around Imran Khan say he is misunderstood. I agree. But his statements on the US and the Taliban back in the day did go too far and he did little to correct the impression. For instance, many tried to convince him to engage the policy community in Washington in recent years to develop rapport and street cred (in anticipation of becoming Prime Minister one day), but he resisted.

The perception of manipulation around the polls will make it harder. Ironically, this Pakistani election cycle was hardly on Washingtons radar till election day.

The US capital is too distracted with multiple other international and domestic crises. Since the elections, however, the conversation is back and focused on the alleged pre-poll manipulation and perceived establishment support for Khan. This may come up in his dealings with the US often enough.

On the substance of bilateral ties too, his hand is constrained. For starters, he (as should the US side) must stop feeling that the US-Pakistan relationship has not been mutually beneficial. Both sides have gained tremendously from it over the years; each would have been worse off without the other. But balance isnt possible. In fact, in the short term, the governments desire for balance is going to run up against the compulsion to raise money to get the country out of the economic hole it is in. Asad Umar has already sounded the alarm bells, and rightly so. Pakistan needs the IMF but the US administration has been uncharacteristically candid in drawing a link between the donor agencys leaning and the state of US-Pakistan ties. From everything I am picking up, this doesnt seem to have been a hollow threat.

This brings us to the question at the heart of everything. Can and will Imran Khan do anything different to move the needle on what is now Americas one-point agenda in the bilateral relationship: Afghanistan?

Well have to wait and see. His previous stances were opposed to the US ask of Pakistan to do more. This can further complicate his governments equation with the US. But, if he is persuaded to think otherwise, hell have his first test vis-a-vis the system. The establishment seems convinced that a stick-heavy approach against these actors will backfire.

Pakistan, therefore, prefers to offer positive incentives to the Taliban to join a US-led peace process in Afghanistan. The US wants this support, but in addition to and ideally at the back end of more direct Pakistani efforts to undermine the influence of the insurgency in Afghanistan.

One important indication of Imran Khans approach to foreign policy management and the US relationship will be his selection of the foreign minister and his decision on the fate of Ali Siddiqui, the incumbent Pakistani ambassador to the US. I hear that there is some talk of recruiting a foreign minister from among those usually available for the establishment to anoint. If so, the deadlock will remain.

Siddiquis case is interesting as the PTI had formally opposed his appointment. Yet, Siddiqui has begun to make significant inroads in Washington and switching him now would  apart from the embarrassment of unceremoniously dismissing the second ambassador within months  mean that the successor would have to go through his or her own learning curve. This will set the government further back in terms of managing the day-to-day diplomatic affairs of the relationship.

Handling the US partnership  or whatever is left of it  isnt going to be fun for the incoming Prime Minister. The sooner he begins to pay attention to it, the better.

By arrangement with Dawn
Commentary Spirit of 8888 Continues to Drive The Irrawaddy

Some framed covers of The Irrawaddy magazine. / Myo Min Soe / The Irrawaddy

As the train pulled into La Mine station, we rushed to help our fellow passengers with their goods and vegetables. We wanted to assist these new friends we had just made on our trip  and we wanted to look a little less conspicuous.

As we climbed down off the top of the carriage  it was the first time I had ridden on the roof of a train  we descended into a chaotic situation. Stay away from police and soldiers, a colleague warned.

The country was sinking into a black hole. The military had staged a coup just three days before, on Sept. 18, 1988.

The police and soldiers who guarded the railway station, however, didnt recognize us as fleeing students and activists.

I saw many familiar faces on the train. They were making the same journey  to Mon State in southern Myanmar. I nodded to acknowledge them, but we didnt talk.

There were perhaps hundreds of such people on the train, all heading to the jungle and the legendary Three Pagoda Pass on the Thai border where Mon insurgents had their headquarters.

In my group, there were 10 of us, and we quickly separated as we took horse carts to a nearby village where Mon rebels were waiting to take us to their base.

We were now in a grey zone that was controlled interchangeably by government soldiers and rebels. As night fell we had simple dishes and tried to sleep without blankets as a Mon village headman looked on.

The train ride was the last mechanized transportation we would experience in Burma.

The next day we were on foot and starting on our trek through the jungle.

Our guide was a senior Mon officer. With his AK-47 he often pointed out landmines and places where Burmese troops could ambush us as he led us into the dense forest, over mountains, and across rivers.

Left behind in Yangon were the wounded and the deserted streets where millions had marched just a week before to denounce the socialist regime and were many had been gunned down. Also, still in Yangon was the unwavering spirit of 8888, as well as fearful family members and our friends in the underground movement.

I had naively thought my journey would be a short one and I imagined I would return home soon.

I didnt know that I would not be able to come back for 24 years. Was it worth it? I would say yes.

The jungle jaunt ended up taking 10 days. It was exhausting but also eye-opening for all of us as we had never been to the ethnic areas where a civil war had raged for decades. We saw deserted villages along the way but also many smiles and abundant hospitality. The Mon villagers had learned about us on BBC Radio and they knew we were coming. How much do you know about our struggle, was a question the Mon rebel leaders asked us repeatedly, They wanted to know how much urban activists and students understood about the long fight of the ethnic minorities.

Jungle life was harsh but in the ethnic rebels who were fighting to gain autonomy we found true friends. Some of the rebel leaders were no strangers to us as they had studied in Yangon University before joining the cause. So they knew our professors and our well-read dissident colleagues who taught us history, politics, literature and about the underground movement.

We also learned some unpleasant things. As we arrived in Three Pagodas Pass the once bursting border trading town was deserted as Mon and Karen rebels had engaged in a fierce battle at the same time as we were marching on the streets of Yangon in August and September. The huts and houses abandoned by villagers became our shelters.

At this point, some of our colleagues were forced to go back to Yangon after becoming caught in a life and death battle with malaria on the Thai-Myanmar border or just because of the harsh life. From our original group of 10, only three of us remained.

After leaving Three Pagodas Pass and doing odd jobs along the border, I decided to set up a publication to inform the international community about what was happening in my country and along the border. Some colleagues joined the armed struggle, went to resettle in third countries to further their studies or continued to fight in the exile movement and became campaign activists or Burma scholars. I wanted to do something to help the cause.

Established in 1993, it is safe to say The Irrawaddy had a direct connection to the 1988 upheaval  its aim was to keep news about Burma alive, and to inform the international community, under the leadership of someone who was in the movement.

But as an independent publication we had to be impartial and to adhere to journalistic standards and not to be a mouthpiece of anyone. We wanted to make sure Burma, and later Myanmar, stayed on the international agenda. But we ourselves were in a hideout somewhere in Bangkok. Somehow, we managed to do it.

There were many important world events, milestones and catastrophes including 9/11 in those early years, and the Myanmar issue was often pushed to the backburner. It thus became even more important to remind the world about those under house arrest or in prison or the plight of refugees along the border. We managed to highlight these stories and to tell the busy world of powerful leaders to take note of Myanmar. Top of our minds was to maintain the momentum, and we did it.

One thing I found about my 1988 friends was many were truly willing to make deep sacrifices rather than take advantage of an opportunity either in prison or in exile.

Its true that we worship those who made sacrifices but we also despise the opportunists.

Aside from the spirit of 8888, there was no shortage of able and competent friends who were always ready to provide assistance. It was in exile that I found my old mate and a 1988 student activist Ko Win Thu, who joined the publication in 1994 and who helped me with the management side of the magazine. Not surprisingly, he is still working with us today.

Established in 1993 we eventually became one of the most recognized publications on Myanmar. Dodging spies and informers in Bangkok  we also became an enemy of the regime.

I still remembered one time the now-defunct Hong Kong-based publication Far Eastern Economic Review referred to us as an underground dissident publication. It was true.

At the time, we were always under budget and when we began the mission, all of us were volunteers and we shared a tiny stipend.

The publication was always under the watchful eye of the junta via its agents at the Myanmar embassy in Bangkok and its shady allies. Yes, we have had friends and foes  as always, it is the nature of media. But being an exiled media was tough.

Yet that did not stop us scoring many prominent interviews and publishing opinion pieces from major figures.

Among the many people we interviewed was the late Czech president Vaclav Havel, a staunch Burma supporter, US President Barack Obama, Aung San Suu Kyi, Desmond Tutu and leaders of the ethnic groups, while many more prominent politicians in Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, and the Philippines spoke to us, lending us their voices to keep the pressure on the regime. Like other exiled media groups DVB and Mizzima, we served as a window on Burma in the 25 years that followed our founding. Our news, interviews, quotes and comments have been published in the New York Times, Washington Post, The Guardian and many other renowned newspapers and magazines from around the world. It was all about Burma and the continuation of an unfinished struggle.

Last week when I glimpsed at old files and Irrawaddy issues I noted the long list of veteran regional journalists such as Bertil Lintner, Kavi Chongkittavorn, Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Don Pathan, Dominic Faulder, and John McBeth who have contributed numerous op-ed pieces and analyses. Young Burma researchers who penned articles in our publications have now become recognized voices and independent analysts on the country. After all, we were one of the few credible and reliable, independent voices covering Myanmar.

When I decided to leave Burma I did so with no hesitation, thinking I would be back soon. But it took 24 years, or over 8,000 days, before I could return to my home country. Without resilience, determination and support it would have been difficult to keep that walk going for 30 years.

It was naive to think and imagine that when we finally got the chance to return we would find a free and perfect Burma. To be sure, it is not the case. Indeed, it is more like the opposite. Even bringing our institution back to the country was tough and the last six years we have gone through a mountain of challenges and uncertainty, similar to whats faced by many in the country. It is true to say that the uprising failed, was exploited, and the dream of 1988 remains elusive. The intense search to find hope and justice is not getting any easier but we, along with many others, are not giving in. It is clear we will have to navigate large waves in our journey.

We will not give up on reporting about Myanmar and will not give up spreading hope to millions of people who deserve more than they have received, and we are continuing to hold our place as an important part of Myanmars besieged fourth pillar.

This means the old spirits of 8888 and their voices are needed more than ever.
Burma Frequent Clashes Among Armed Groups Plague Shan State Residents

RCSS/SSA-S troops participate in a military parade in 2017. / Kyaw Kha / The Irrawaddy

YANGON Residents of Shan States Namtu Township have lamented the frequent fighting between the Shan State Army-South (SSA-S) and the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA).

The SSA-S, the armed wing of the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS), clashed with the TNLA on Sunday in an area between Pan Kwak Village and Pan Saw Village in Namtu.

The clash lasted for only around 20 minutes. [The TNLA] carried out an artillery strike on us and we returned fire, information officer Major Mai Ai Kyaw of the TNLA told The Irrawaddy.

The Irrawaddy was unable to reach Lieutenant Colonel Sai Oo, information officer for the RCSS.

They clash frequently. It is locals who suffer most from those clashes, said a local of Mong Yeng Village in Namtu who did not want to be named.

Maj. Mai Ai Kyaw confirmed that military tensions in Namtu have been running high between the two sides since last year.

There was no fierce clash however, he said.

About 1,000 locals had to flee from their homes after the SSA-S clashed with combined troops of the TNLA and Shan State Army-North, the armed wing of Shan State Progress Party, for four days from July 16 to 20 near Pan Long Village in Namtu.

According to a statement the TNLA released on Monday, the two sides clashed seven times in July this year.

Leaders from both sides met late last year to try to end the frequent fighting but have yet to reach an agreement.

The RCSS is a signatory of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement. The Myanmar military considers the TNLA an insurgent group because it was formed only after the general elections in 2010.

Clashes broke out between the RCSS and TNLA in November 2015 over a territorial dispute. Since then, the two have clashed sporadically in Kyaukme, Hsipaw, and Namtu townships in northern Shan.

Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko.
Burma Singapore Pledges Continued Support for Myanmar

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan (left) and Myanmar State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi (center) meet in Singapore in December 2016. / Vivian Balakrishnan / Facebook

SINGAPORE  Singapores foreign minister said the city-state and current ASEAN chair would continue to support Myanmars economic development and peace process through its many challenges.

Speaking with journalists from across the regional bloc on Monday, Vivian Balakrishnan said Singapore stood with Myanmar as it tackled economic challenges, civil war and the Rohingya crisis.

Balakrishnan has met Myanmar State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who also serves as the countrys foreign minister, several times in the past two years, both in Myanmar and Singapore.

Balakrishnan acknowledged that Myanmars de facto leader was facing many hurdles, including unmet expectations about the pace of economic reform.

I think she is facing enormous challenges, he said. And you have to deal with all the historical challenges and ethnic problems, including armed conflicts in other parts of the country, and not just in Rakhine State. Thats why ASEAN stands with [the] Myanmar government, and Daw Aung San Sui Kyi deserves the support.

He said the state counselor was trying very hard for end Myanmars decades-long civil war through meetings of the 21st Century Panglong Peace Conference and to gain the trust of the countrys many ethnic armed groups.

Balakrishnan said ASEAN would continue to fully support Myanmar with humanitarian aid as well.

The crisis in Rakhine State was discussed last week during an ASEAN meeting in Singapore. ASEAN encouraged the Myanmar government to continue implementing the recommendations of the Kofi Annan-led Advisory Commission on Rakhine State and welcomed its efforts to date.

Myanmar recently said it would accept an offer of help from the ASEAN Coordination Center for Humanitarian Assistance following recent severe flooding in several parts of the country.

At the 19th ASEAN Plus Three foreign ministers meeting on Saturday, the ministers welcomed an agreement to establish a regional catastrophe risk insurance pool for Laos and Myanmar as the first program of the Southeast Asia Disaster Risk Insurance Facility, supported by Japan, Singapore and the World Bank. The program, to be run out of Singapore, aims to provide climate and disaster risk management insurance solutions to ASEAN member states to narrow the natural catastrophe protection gap.
News Lawmakers Rebuke Construction Ministry Over Handling of Road Contracts

A road between Sagaing and Monywa cities in Sagaing Region is under construction as part of a BOT contract. / Ministry of Construction

NAYPYITAW  The Lower House of Parliament on Tuesday passed a proposal to urge the government to keep companies true to their contracts after accusing the Construction Ministry of failing to adequately monitor firms it hires to build and maintain roads using the BOT  build, operate, transfer  system.

Though the companies collect the agreed tolls from road users, they fail to properly maintain the roads and the ministry is negligent in regulating them, lawmakers said.

The stance of the focal ministry responsible for BOT contracts is questionable, Daw Yin Min Hlaing, a lawmaker representing Magwe Regions Gangaw Township, told the Lower House.

She called the terms and conditions of the contract between the Ministry of Construction and Zaykabar Co. Ltd. for the construction of the road between Yangon Regions Hlaing Tharyar Township and Irrawaddy Regions Dedaye Township unbelievable.

If it is impossible to carry out certain works according to the contract, terms and conditions can be changed as necessary, she quoted from the contract.

Standards are not something that can be adjusted. We are quite taken aback by it, said Daw Yin Min Hlaing.

Lawmaker U Sai Kyaw Aung, of Shan States Kyeethe Township, also complained that the road between Hopong and Taunggyi townships is in bad condition despite all small vehicles being charged 3,000 kyats ($2.05) to travel the route.

Many fatal traffic accidents could be avoided in southern Shan State if the roads were wide enough and the Ministry of Construction carefully monitored the private companies, he added.

Only road sections close to the toll gates are broadened, and repair work carried out on dangerous roads along the mountains is quite disappointing, said U Sai Kyaw Aung, a lawmaker from the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy (SNLD).

The BOT system was first introduced to Myanmar in 1996, according to the the Ministry of Construction.

Diamond Palace Co. and Asia World Co. were the first to operate using the BOT system when they constructed the Mandalay-Lashio-Muse-Namkham road in 1996 under the military regime of the time, it said.

More than 4,800 kilometers of road have been built and maintained using the BOT system, it added.

Between 2006 and 2016, the ministry cancelled contracts with 23 companies for upgrading 32 road sections for their failure to comply with contracts.

But according to the Myanmar Investment Law, Chapter 14, Section 52, the Construction Ministry cannot take direct action against companies if they complete their work within the scheduled timeframe.

Deputy Construction Minister U Kyaw Lin said his ministry would redesign rules and regulations regarding the BOT system and sign new BOT contracts with private companies.

Seventeen lawmakers, including some from the ruling National League for Democracy, Arakan National Party, SNLD and military representatives debated the proposal, but the opposition Union Solidarity and Development Party shunned the debate.

Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko.
News Reuters Reporters 'Revealing the Truth,' Former Teacher Tells Myanmar Court

Detained Reuters journalist Wa Lone speaks to the media as he leaves Insein Court in Yangon, Myanmar, on Monday. / Reuters

YANGON  A Myanmar court heard defense witnesses on Monday vouch for the integrity of two Reuters journalists accused of obtaining secret state documents and will hear final arguments in two weeks, when the trial regarded as a test of press freedom resumes.

Kyaw Soe Oo, 28, and Wa Lone, 32, are facing up to 14 years in prison for allegedly violating Myanmars colonial-era Official Secrets Act. Both have pleaded not guilty to the charges and have told the court how they were trapped by police officials who planted documents on them.

During Mondays session, their former teacher Ye Naing Moe, director of the Yangon Journalism School, praised both reporters as curious and excellent students who had won multiple awards for stories focusing on the underprivileged and social issues.

We havent seen any stories they wrote which have violated media ethics, he said, explaining that the school monitored the work of its former students.

I believe that Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo performed the most important role of journalists, which is revealing the truth, said Ye Naing Moe. Finding defects, problems and revealing them in a positive way gives a chance to fix things and that benefits the society and the country.

A second witness, Thant Zin Soe, had worked with Wa Lone at a charity distributing humanitarian aid to the victims of natural disasters and described him as being consistently ethical and disgusted by corruption.

At the time of their arrest in December, the journalists had been investigating the killing of 10 Rohingya Muslims in Inn Din village in western Myanmars Rakhine State.

The killings took place during an army crackdown that United Nations agencies say sent some 700,000 people fleeing to Bangladesh.

Prosecutor Moe Thu Aung questioned the witnesses over whether they could have known what the intentions of the defendants were while they were reporting and whether they believed the journalists would behave unethically.

He declined to comment after the proceedings.

The trial has captured global attention and has come to be seen as a test of press freedom and reforms in the fledgling democracy, where the military still wields considerable influence.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called for the immediate release of the reporters on Saturday. UN Human Rights chief Zeid Raad Al Hussein has also recently called for the case to be dropped immediately.

Government spokesman Zaw Htay told Reuters by phone that Myanmars courts are independent and the case would be conducted according to the law. He said they will have the full protection of their rights as citizens.

Final arguments

Judge Ye Lwin adjourned the court and scheduled final arguments from both the prosecution and defense to be heard in two weeks. The judge will declare a verdict in the weeks following the final arguments, according to legal experts.

On Monday, Kyaw Soe Oos wife and daughter and Wa Lones pregnant wife, who is just four days away from her delivery date, sat in a courtroom packed with diplomats.

The day of decision will arrive soon. We believe that it will proceed in a fair and just way, said Wa Lone, before he was taken back to jail. Kyaw Soe Oo and Wa Lone have testified that Police Lance Corporal Naing Lin and another officer handed them documents during their meeting at a north Yangon restaurant, but that they had no time to look at them before being arrested as they left.

A police captain, Moe Yan Naing, has also testified that a superior officer had instructed his subordinates, including Lance Cpl. Naing Lin, to trap the reporters. Lance Cpl. Naing Lin has told the court he met the reporters, but denied giving them anything.

Other police witnesses have previously told the court the reporters were arrested at a random security checkpoint by officers who were unaware they were journalists and found to be holding secret documents in their hands.
News USDP-Led Alliance Protests Rakhine Investigation Commission

USDP spokesman U Thein Tun Oo (holding microphone) addresses reporters at a press conference in Yangon on April 24, 2018. / Aung Kyaw Htet / The Irrawaddy

YANGONThe formerly ruling Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), which is backed by the military, and its allies have protested against the newly formed commission of inquiry into rights abuses in Rakhine, citing fears of foreign intervention.

In a joint statement released on Monday, the parties said they opposed the inclusion and leading role of foreigners in the commission, adding that they wouldnt allow any organization or action that could harm either directly or indirectly the countrys sovereignty, territorial integrity, security and rule of law.

The statement was issued by the USDP and 21 other political parties, the majority of which are currently unrepresented in Parliament, including the Peace for Diversity Party, National Development Party and New National Democracy Party, along with other small ethnic parties.

The independent commission comprising two local and two international members was formed on July 30 by the government to investigate allegations of human rights violations in Rakhine State following attacks on police posts there by the militant Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) in late August 2017.

The commission is to be led by Rosario Manalo, a former deputy foreign minister of the Philippines. She is also a former chair and a current representative of the Philippines to the UN Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women.

The commission also includes Kenzo Oshima, a former permanent representative to the UN for Japan.

The Presidents Office announcement said the commission was part of the governments national initiative to address reconciliation, peace, stability and development in Rakhine.

The USDP-led alliance said that despite the governments claim, its findings and report will become a new mechanism for the UN to put pressure on the country on the world stage, and would be tantamount to accepting the recommendations of the Kofi Annan-led advisory commission as a road map for solving the Rakhine State crisis.

They also called for the investigation to begin with the ARSA attacks, and not be limited to what happened after that.

Previously, the parties raised similar objections against the Kofi Annanled advisory commission on Rakhine State and its reports, as well as the advisory team to the implementation committee, as foreign intervention.

During a joint press conference with the Japanese foreign affairs minister following their meeting in Naypyitaw on Monday, State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said the independent investigation commission would be allowed to carry out its work unobstructed, adding that the members of the commission are qualified.
Draining the blood to the fount remains at the core of the Indian offensive and defensive strategy on Kashmir.

Indias Deep State led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assiduously cultivated Pakistans principal Sunni political Islam persuasion allies and economic benefactors  Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates  to try and drain Toxicistans fountainhead of blood money being funnelled by hawala conduits into the Kashmir Valley.

The Hurriyat Conference website actively seeks donations from the citizenry, its renegade and anti-national chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelanis appeal reads like this: Help the families of martyrs and prisoners. It is the duty of the people to enquire about the well-being of these families. To overlook it may invite Allahs wrath on us. The Tehreek-e-Hurriyat is doing whatever possible to make legal aid available to these prisoners, including those sentenced to life imprisonment. People should come forward and help TeH monetarily in this endeavour. Tehreek-e-Hurriyat is one of the best organisations to give Ushr, Zakat and other sadaqaat. People should come forward for donations in the month of Ramzan as the number of people affected by this movement is large.

Incredibly, he gives his personal J&K Bank account, complete with IFSC code, on the website for the same donations. It is not that he is blagging for help, he is doing it brazenly under the eyes of the torpor-induced

Government of India for the freedom of Kashmir. Ostensibly, his appeal for donations is to help the families of martyrs and prisoners, but one doesnt really know if a part of the proceeds fuel the purported azadi struggle in the Valley. While the Ajit Doval doctrine, using a mix of discrediting the Hurriyat and the use of jackboots on the ground, has failed in Kashmir, the Prime Ministers strategy of cutting off the snakes head so that the body dies has partially been successful in terms of long-term diplomacy. The key is to drain the flow of blood, in this case cash to fund the insurgency that has taken root in the Sunni-dominated Valley.

Displaying his diplomatic heft by systematically engaging with three principals of Salafi Wahabism  Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE  equally financial sponsors and Sunni religious doctrine benefactors of Pakistan, Mr Modi has managed to deplete the flow of blood money to the terror factory and Jihad Central. Sadly, this facet of his diplomacy has got lost in the tower of babble over his numerous foreign visits.

In order to neutralise Pakistans clout in the Sunni-dominated nations and to circumvent the cash lines for the alleged Kashmir freedom struggle, not enough credit has gone to the PM. The fact that this engagement is bilateral, with Mr Modi visiting these countries and their heads of state/government coming here, means that the volume has been ratcheted up and India is weaning away the fountainhead from Toxicistan, the practitioner of a dreaded ideology and theology.

The wedge driven in the relations between Saudi Arabia and Qatar, both long-time votaries, major allies and economic benefactors of Pakistan, has only helped India. The terror taint has now now stuck to Pakistan indelibly. The Pakistan government backed the Anti-Terror Quartet (ATQ)  comprising Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt and Bahrain  against Qatar. But this was primarily driven by the Pakistan Muslim League (Newaz) and the Sharif brothers business interests in Qatar, where larger issues were ignored over personal business interests. In 2015, the Pakistanis refused to join the Saudi alliance against Yemen, prompting a swift and angry retaliation from the UAE authorities. Saudi Arabia, one of Pakistans biggest benefactors in the past, virtually asked Pakistan to choose between Riyadh and Doha earlier this year, when the Gulf states hit out at Qatar for its alleged support to terrorists.

Pakistan, for a while, considered pulling out Gen. Raheel Sharif, its former Army chief, as commander of the Saudi-led anti-terror alliance after then PM Nawaz Sharif felt ignored and shunned in Riyadh during a visit by US President Donald Trump. Mr Sharif was not allowed to deliver his prepared speech, nor was he able to meet Mr Trump. Making thin-gs worse, Mr Trump named only India as a victim of terror, even as Pakistan has wailed and railed that it has paid the largest cost in human terms.

The religiously-driven proxy war funded by Salafi Wahabi backers has seen an all-pervasive cult of death practised for close to 30 years in Kashmir. To cut the feedstock to this bloody war for the misplaced notion of azadi was imperative, and Mr Modi and his security mavens have realised this. Mr Modi has gone beyond the pale and engaged with Jordan, Oman and Iran as well in this push for the Middle East and the Levant. At its very kernel remains the isolation of Pakistan, and wins like the joint statement with the UAE are worth their weight in gold. A statement issued by Mr Modi and UAEs Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan managed to redefine the contours of a relationship that had long been bereft of political reality. Both sides denounced terrorism in all forms and manifestations, wherever committed and by whomever, calling on all states to reject and abandon the use of terrorism against other countries, dismantle terrorism infrastructures where they exist, and bring perpetrators of terrorism to justice. The PM is keen to see that Pakistans close allies apply pressure on Pakistan as a rogue state sponsor of terrorism.

To understand the dynamics at play, Adam Weinstein, a policy associate at National Iranian American Council and an Afghan war veteran, wrote in Huffpost that Wahhabism is an ideology of compromise between the ambitions of the zealot and the needs of the ruler. Wahhabism can be thought of as a religio-political sub-category of the Salafi approach to Islam. Salafis get their name from the al-salaf al-salih or pious companions of Mohammed, whose practises they claim to imitate. What distinguishes Wahhabism from Salafism is that the former is dependent on the House of Saud for its power, whereas the latter is a phenomenon that exists globally. The 18th century partnership of tribal leader Ibn Saud and cleric Abd al-Wahhab wedded two parallel sources of legitimacy in Arabia  religion and tribal kinship. The clerics known as ulema received their authority from God and then conferred it upon the Saud clan themselves. In exchange, theulema are protected from the risks that come with governance. Wahhabis must be distinguished from jihadi Salafis because Wahhabism is inextricably linked to the Saudi state and therefore not revolutionary in nature. The royal family walks a tightrope between the liberalisation necessary for economic development and strong political ties with the West, and the more conservative demands of the Wahhabi movement. One such demand is to turn a blind eye to the sponsorship and export of terrorism and jihad in South Asia, the Middle East and even the West.

The close relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan began as early as the administration of Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. According to a recently-released CIA report, in 1975 Bhutto had obtained assurances of generous aid from Saudi Arabia during a state visit. In exchange for such support, Pakistan furnished military technicians and advisers to the armed forces of Saudi Arabia. Other CIA documents reveal that during Gen. Zia-ul Haqs military dictatorship, Pakistan viewed the Soviet presence in Afghanistan starting 1979 as an existential threat. So Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency was more than enthusiastic about training Pashtun mujahideen to fight against the Soviets with Saudi and US assistance. Saudi officials naturally garnered greater respect from the Pakistani officers than their American counterparts due to the revered status of the Kingdom as caretaker of the two holiest sites in Islam. The US also underestimated the extent to which Pakistani officers would develop sympathies for the militants they spent years training.

Draining the blood to the fount remains at the core of the Indian offensive and defensive strategy on Kashmir. Unfortunately, the appointment of Dineshwar Sharma as Kashmir interlocutor has hindered and slowed down the NIA probe and taking the same to its logical culmination. The February NIA chargesheet hasnt seen much action thereafter, but with Governors Rule now in place, renewed aggression may manifest itself. As many as 12 people were chargesheeted, including linchpins of the terror factory and aides of several prominent separatists including the troika Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik. It also included Syed Geelanis son-in-law Altaf Ahmad Shah, alias Fantoosh, and Farooq Ahmad Dar, alias Bitta Karate.
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BSA is "The Software Alliance", the "principal trade association for the worlds most innovative software companies" and while it is famously known for its "compliance programs that promote legal software use", the organisation also "advocates for public policies that foster technology innovation and drive growth in the digital economy".

Not just an anti-piracy organisation, BSA reminds us that it "actively engages governments and other stakeholders on a range of issues relevant to emerging data-driven technology".

BSAs Jared Ragland (senior director, Policy  APAC) and Darryn Lim (director, Policy  APAC) were in Australia during the last week of June 2018, and offered an interview on "how well-positioned Australia is to lead the region on matters pertaining to the digital economy, as well as elements for digital trade that Australia could embrace in its negotiations with the EU".

I wasn't able to catch up with both gentlemen when they were in town, but I took the opportunity to ask the BSA a series of questions in an email interview, which was conducted with Ragland which is in full below.

In your original email to me, you state that "such rules and initiatives are important for small and medium-sized enterprises, as the announcement recognises, and also the broader Australian economy", and note that you'd both be happy to talk about "how well-positioned Australia is to lead the region on matters pertaining to the digital economy, as well as elements for digital trade that Australia could embrace in its negotiations with the EU."

Can you please expand on this  what can Australia do to not only lead the (presumably APAC) region in advancing rules and initiatives to support on-going innovation, but how can this leadership help drive a better outcome for Australia in any EU FTA agreement?

Jared Ragland: Todays digital economy relies heavily on the ability to transfer data across borders.

Cloud computing and other emerging technologies are the underpinning of the digital economy and are democratising access to affordable and scalable storage and information processing and sharing capabilities for enterprises both large and small. This allows them to take advantage of new business opportunities, enhance their productivity, achieve cost savings, strengthen data security, and even help the environment. Colleagues and clients can collaborate across the globe in ways never before possible.

All of these activities are reliant on cross-border data transfers.

The Australian Government acknowledged the immense personal and economic benefits of data-enabled innovation in its recent Digital Economy Strategy. (The Digital Economy: Opening Up the Conversation, September 2017, available here.)

The report wisely noted that Australia enjoys a competitive advantage in energy resources and medical and mining related technologies that can be better leveraged through sound data innovation policies. This is not just a theoretical opportunity. In fact, McKinsey predicts that policies that encourage better uses of data could boost the Australian economy by $140 billion to $250 billion over the next eight years.

Australia has taken a leadership role in negotiating the ground-breaking digital economy related provisions in the Comprehensive and Progress Trans-Pacific Partnership, or CP-TPP. These provisions, which require CP-TPP parties to permit the cross-border transfer of data and prohibit them from adopting requirements to locate data processing and storage infrastructure onshore (among other things), are precisely the types of policies that will help Australia realise the full benefits of the digital economy.

Australia is also actively shaping the digital trade landscape through other multilateral and bilateral fora, including at the World Trade Organisation and in regional investment agreements.

The EU-Australia FTA is yet another forum in which Australia has the opportunity to advance these modern rules and initiatives to support on-going innovation.

The inclusion of strong digital trade provisions in the EU-Australia FTA will not only benefit Australia-EU trade relations, it also would have a significant positive impact on the region  the EU is pursuing free-trade agreements with several other countries, including Indonesia and New Zealand, and having high-standard digital trade provisions in the EU-Australia FTA will serve as a strong foundation on which the EUs other free-trade agreements can be modelled, which would benefit Australian companies doing business with those markets as well.

BSA is encouraged by, and strongly supportive of, Australias role in advocating digital trade rules in the international area. Given the work that Australia has already done, and is pursuing in the area, Australia is in a good place to continue leading the region in this area.

What are the digital trade principles you're working on as the BSA?

We urge a well-constructed and modern trade agreement that includes truly 21st century obligations that drive job creation, competitiveness, and innovation. No digital trade framework would be complete without protections for the development of emerging technologies, which allow companies to expand and create new jobs. These provisions are critical for the future of the global economy.

We accordingly strongly support a modern agreement that:

Builds on existing international law on e-commerce and the emerging international consensus on digital trade;

Addresses the current and anticipated challenges faced by the software industry; and

Establishes rules in evolving areas, especially on data-driven economic activity.

The driving principle should be: no market access barriers and no discrimination against innovative software services. For more information, we refer you to BSAs digital trade agenda, Modernising Digital Trade: An Agenda for Software which you may find here.

What emerging technologies are you talking about and targeting?

Software innovation is fostering the development of a range of cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, that offer great promise to improve lives and help solve intractable problems.

AI solutions are already leading to improvements in healthcare, advances in education, more robust accessibility tools, stronger cyber security, and increased business productivity and competitiveness, impacting every sector. AI also has the potential to generate substantial economic growth and enable governments to provide better and more responsive government services while addressing some of the most pressing societal challenges.

We recently weighed in with the Department of Communications and the Arts about one practical step to help spur greater AI innovation in Australia. Updating the Copyright Act to ensure that researchers and businesses can engage in text and data mining will be key to recognising Australias ambitions for the digital economy. You may find our submission here.

Blockchain is perhaps best known as the underlying technology behind Bitcoin, enabling users to verify purchases, track exchanges of funds, and keep records that anyone can audit. However, it has applications that extend beyond currency transactions. Uses and implementations open a world of opportunity for industries and end users. Indeed, blockchain is slowly emerging as a virtual foundation for massive shifts in how business is conducted across different sectors and industries.

AI and blockchain are but some of the emerging technologies that we are seeing. Given the pace of advancement of technology, it is certain that we will continue to see more innovative technologies being developed.

To ensure that these emerging technologies can deliver their greatest positive potential, industry, government, academics, and public interest leaders must all work together to advance policies and practices that enable us as a society to take full advantage of them. A flexible policy framework is necessary to enable successful deployment of AI and blockchain in global markets, and this is where BSA is able to effectively advise policymakers.

How do the digital trade rules in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, and other trade agreements we are party to, differ from those we have in mind for the EU, and if they are different, why?

The CP-TPP was the first agreement to include binding commitments among the participants to allow international data transfers and prevent on-shore localisation requirements of servers and other data processing systems, among other things. This represents a new foundation for modern trade agreements adapted to promoting digital trade in the modern economy.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trades Future of Digital Trade Rules discussion paper contains an outline of the provisions that Australia pursues in its trade agreements in general. Those provisions are similar to those found in the CP-TPP.

You speak the importance of ensuring the free-movement of data across borders and avoiding data localisation mandates  isn't data generally already free to move where it wants? Obviously you talk about data localisation mandates, but with countries mandating company and private data remain in-country, how can you avoid this? If you avoid it, isn't it breaking the laws of particular countries?

Some countries in the world, and in the region, place restrictions on international data transfers. We often see these restrictions applying to personal data, financial data, and public sector data. These requirements are frequently driven by the myth that data is not secure when it is processed in other jurisdictions.

Australia has been a leader in pushing back against these requirements through the CP-TPP, which creates an important precedent. The reality is that the location of the service provider has little impact on its ability to secure customer data. We can achieve data privacy and security through accountability mechanism, not localisation mandates.

How does the GDPR fit into the above?

At BSA, we support policies that both address privacy concerns and spur innovation that can improve lives and create jobs. We recognise the GDPR's importance in harmonising data privacy laws across the European Union, improving legal consistency across member states, and increasing business certainty. While there is no universal approach to privacy, we encourage governments throughout the world to implement effective privacy regimes that encourage informed consumer choices, while safeguarding the ability to transmit data across borders. This is critical to ensuring that economies and consumers continue to derive the benefits of cutting-edge software-based innovations.

Strong support for encryption is laudable, and we see Apple leading the charge to keep private data private and encrypted  at least on devices. In the cloud, or specifically iCloud, if the government asks Apple for the data, it is effectively obliged to provide it, as opposed to encrypted devices which Apple says it isn't obligated to decrypt  or at least, in the US.

You refer to the "related debate in Australia around law enforcement access to encrypted information"  what can the tech industry, the BSA and its members do to help Australia's Government and those around the world to respect encrypted information, and what will the BSA and its members do if Australia legislates they must give that data up?

BSA and our members have been involved in discussions with governments, policymakers, and industry bodies around the world for several years on efforts to facilitate law enforcement access to communications in a way that balances associated concerns.

Through these discussions, our experience is that moving the encryption debate forward, and finding an enduring solution, requires many groups to come together to balance the legitimate rights, needs, and responsibilities of governments, citizens, providers of critical infrastructure, third party stewards of data, and innovators. Drawing on this experience, BSA has developed the BSA Encryption Principles, a set of eight principles against which, in our view, an encryption regulation or policy should be evaluated.

The eight principles are:

Improving data security; Enhancing law enforcement and counter-terrorism activities; Promoting privacy; Protecting confidential government information; Encouraging innovation; Defending critical infrastructure; Understanding the global impact; and Increasing transparency.

You may find these principles here.

We recognise that the digital age has created both opportunities and obstacles for law enforcement. On the one hand, the volume of digital evidence available to law enforcement is greater than ever before. On the other, criminals are availing themselves of the very technologies used to secure our critical infrastructure in order to obfuscate their communications.

These are real challenges. Our goal is to work with lawmakers to help identify practical solutions that balance these eight aforementioned principles.

How actively are BSA members developing even stronger encryption, and what involvement does the BSA itself have with that work?

Securing the data at the heart of our modern digital economy is a never-ending effort tied to multiple, interconnected parties. This involves not just our members, who create products and services, but the consumers who rely on those products and services to power their daily lives, the companies that encrypt human resources, sales, or other data, and even the law enforcement officials who investigate crimes. With so many interests at stake, it is vital that discussions about the future of encryption involve all perspectives.

An enduring solution to the encryption challenge must balance the legitimate rights, needs and responsibilities of:

Governments to protect personal and confidential information they hold and to prevent terrorist and criminal acts and prosecute offenders;

Individual citizens right to secure the privacy of their personal information.

Providers of critical infrastructure and essential services  including water, electricity, transportation, banking, and health  to protect their operations from cyberattacks;

Third-party stewards of personal data and confidential business information to protect the data entrusted to them;

Innovators to develop products and services that improve our daily lives and drive economic growth free of government mandates.

The BSA Encryption Principles discussed above incorporate these considerations, and drawing on this work, we are continuing to engage with policy-makers and other stakeholders around the world to seek balanced regulatory environments that ensure that all legitimate interests are addressed.

What bodies does the BSA work with in Australia in government and elsewhere beyond its members?

BSA is the leading advocate for the global software industry before governments and in the international marketplace. Its members are among the worlds most innovative companies, creating software solutions that spark the economy and improve modern life.

With headquarters in Washington, DC, and operations in more than 60 countries, BSA pioneers compliance programs that promote legal software use and advocates for public policies that foster technology innovation and drive growth in the digital economy.

We have offices around the world. In the Asia-Pacific region, we have offices in Bangkok, Beijing, New Delhi, Seoul, Singapore, and Tokyo.

In Australia, we engage with parliamentarians from both the ruling and opposition parties, with responsibilities for cyber security, law enforcement access, digital economy and intellectual property, and with agencies in charge of implementing such policies, including the Department of Communications and the Arts and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Who are the BSA's members?

BSAs members include: Adobe, Amazon Web Services, ANSYS, Apple, Autodesk, AVEVA, Baseplan Software, Bentley Systems, Box, CA Technologies, Cadence, Cisco, CNC/Mastercam, DataStax, DocuSign, IBM, Informatica, Intel, MathWorks, Microsoft, Okta, Oracle, PTC, Salesforce, SAS Institute, Siemens PLM Software, Splunk, Symantec, Trend Micro, Trimble Solutions Corporation, and Workday.

What are the BSA's top three actions against piracy in Australia of all time?

BSA runs numerous campaigns and initiatives across APAC in our effort to create awareness of the pitfalls of unlicensed software use, and educate businesses and individuals on how to mitigate these risks. In Australia, our top three actions include:

Running an enforcement campaign on behalf of members which consists of taking legal action against commercial entities that use unlicensed software. All of BSAs actions in Australia have, to-date, resulted in out-of-court settlements. Our top three settlements each consisted of at least A$200,000 in damages. On top of paying damages, the infringers also purchased original software products from authorised resellers. Encouraging people with sufficient evidence to step forward to report the use of unlicensed software by commercial entities, and rewarding them up to A$20,000 for their co-operation. Spreading awareness through bi-annual publication of BSAs Global Software Survey, which quantifies the volume and value of unlicensed software installed on personal computers in more than 110 countries and regions.

What activities is the BSA undertaking in 2018 to remind companies and individuals of their intellectual property and non-piracy obligations?

In 2018, BSA released the Global Software Survey: Software Management  Security Imperative, Business Opportunity. This survey quantifies the volume and value of unlicensed software installed on personal computers in more than 110 countries and regions, and includes nearly 23,000 responses from consumers, employees, and CIOs.

In this biannual report, BSA urges Australian businesses to assess the software on their networks and eliminate unlicensed software in an effort to reduce the risk of cyberattacks and boost their bottom line. BSA also continues to run its reward program, through advertising on social media channels, encouraging people with knowledge of unlicensed software use to come forward and file a report.

Is the reward still $5000 or has it increased?

For those with sufficient evidence of a company using unlicensed software, they can file a report confidentially and be eligible for a cash reward of up to A$20,000.

In a world of cloud and subscription services, how much has piracy decreased?

While industries do see a general declining trend for copyright infringement, there is still a lot more to be done, as the economic impact of piracy remains high. To that end, BSA also educates organisations through its suite of software asset management solutions.

SAM Advantage is an online course aligned to the ISO/IEC19770-1 SAM standard designed to educate users on SAM best practices and how to proactively increase IT efficiencies and reduce risks.

BSA also commissioned a Global Software Survey around piracy, conducted by IDC, which calculated that merely by increasing its software compliance rate by just 20% (for example, lowering an unlicensed software rate from 24% to 19%), an enterprise with annual revenue of US$83 million  the average in our survey  could increase profits by an astounding 11%.

What do you both think the BSA will be working on over the next decade, what might the BSA of 2028 look like?

BSAs policy agenda focuses on issues that have the greatest impact on members ability to innovate and participate in the global economy. As the technology and regulatory environment evolves, BSA will continue to work actively with our members to ensure that the issues that we are engaged in remain relevant to them. One area that were very excited about is emerging technology, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and quantum computing.

What's the BSA's final message to iTWire readers in this interview?

The software industry has seen more change in the last five years than most industries experience in a lifetime. With software innovation evolving ever so rapidly, its even more crucial for governments and multilateral organisations to keep up with policies that reward innovation in an increasingly complex global policy environment.

At BSA, we are committed to working closely with our members, who are among the worlds leading software companies, to drive innovation in the digital economy. We are well positioned to do so, given our influence through our substantive depth of knowledge and expertise and our global network of policy and legislative professionals in 60 countries.
The Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance, the union for journalists in Australia, does not appear to have anything to say about the plight of WikiLeaks publisher Julian Assange who has been holed up in the Ecuadorian embassy in London for nearly six years and faces imminent expulsion.

The organisation has not responded to a request for comment sent by iTWire on the morning of 2 August through the only means available  a Web form on the organisation's website.

Emails sent to communications director Mark Phillips and communications manager/media Mike Dobbie did not elicit any response. The federal president Marcus Strom does not appear to have an email address at the organisation; even mail sent to his work address at Fairfax Media bounced.

Considering that there are often complaints from the media about companies, politicians and organisations not providing contact details, the MEAA's lack of media contacts on the site is rather strange.

In the request for comment, iTWire wrote:

"I would like to know if the MEAA has any position on the current position of Australian publisher Julian Assange who is facing imminent eviction from the Ecuador embassy in London and possible extradition to the US where he fears he may face a death sentence for having published/broadcast leaked material on US security matters.

"There have been a number of stories in recent days about Assange; we have a small story here.

"What position does the MEAA have on Assange  is he a journalist and covered by the US first amendment? Why is the mainstream media silent on the issue?"

Strangely, though the MEAA talks a lot about press freedom, there are just two references to Assange on its website  and one is in a book extract in its report into press freedom in Australia in 2018. The other is in an article about data retention written in 2015.

In response to iTWire's submission via its Web form, this canned reply was received:

"Thank you for your inquiry.

"If you have submitted an inquiry related to an industrial issue, your email will be forwarded on to the MEAA industrial team. You should be contacted by that area within the next 24-72 business hours depending on their current case load.

"For all other inquiries, we will attempt to respond inside 48 business hours.

"Please note, as a member-based organisation access to advice and information is reserved for our fee paying members. If you are not a member, whilst we will attempt to assist where possible, we may be limited in the information we are able to provide."

Judging by that response, perhaps Assange needs to join the organisation and pay his dues in order for his plight to be noticed.
A vulnerability in the transport control protocol in version 4.9 of the Linux kernel and above leaves it open to a denial of service by a remote attacker, according to an advisory from CERT.

The vulnerability, reported by Juha-Matti Till at Aalto University, Department of Communications and Networking/Nokia Bell Labs, means an attacker can bring about a Dos by sending specially modified packets during an ongoing TCP session.

However, since maintaining the DoS calls for continuous two-way TCP sessions to a reachable open port, attacks cannot be carried out using spoofed IP addresses.

The Linux kernel project has released patches to address the vulnerability.

British security researcher Kevin Beaumont provided some useful information about the vulnerability

"Its well worth noting that most enterprise grade Linux distributions do not yet use Linux kernels 4.9 or above, so (they) arent impacted," Beaumont wrote. "By the time they do, patches will be built in."

He said the following points should be noted:

The vulnerability does not allow remote code execution.

If the server is fully firewalled from an attacker, it is not exploitable.

To exploit the vulnerability, you need inbound TCP access to the server.

You cannot spoof packets during exploitation, as it requires an established, two-way TCP stream.

You need the server to echo certain packets back to you over TCP to exploit this  the packets need to be sent by the Linux server *outbound*. So only certain protocols would allow this.

There is no proof of concept for the exploit available at the moment.

Beaumont also listed the kernel versions in some widely-used Linux distrubutions so users could see if they were vulnerable.

"Don't panic," he said. "For enterprise grade Linux distributions it is unlikely you are actually impacted due to kernel versions. You should, of course, check your systems with a Vulnerability Management approach  and if so, patch your system with apt-get upgrade, yum update etc.

"It is obviously more complex with embedded devices such as NAS devices  although I would recommend not exposing these directly the Internet regardless."
The financial position of the NBN Co, the company rolling out Australia's national broadband network, the NBN, is likely to worsen due to competition from wireless networks once 5G begins to make its presence felt, the Shadow Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has warned.

Rowland was responding to a query from an interviewer on Sky New about a recent study by credit rating agency Standard & Poor's that claimed the NBN would never make a profit and would have to take a damaging write-down which would have a political cost for the Coalition Government.

She told an interviewer on Sky News on Monday: "...here's where the real problem arises: and that's the impact of wireless competition with the advent of 5G and entry-level pricing at certain level for the NBN versus whatever entry-level pricing there will be for 5G services.

"And we know that in areas where the NBN is of a second-rate technology and people would rather use wireless services, then certainly even a very minor switch by consumers to wireless services will have an enormous impact on the already dire situation we have for the NBN's current economics."

NBN Co has said that it needs to achieve average revenue per user of $52 if it is to break even; during the last results announcement, the companyit had reached $44 ARPU making it unlikely that it would reach its target before the rollout was completed.

Rowland was asked what the Labor Party would do if the Australian National Audit Office undertook an assessment of key assumptions underlying the medium- and long-term financial projections of the NBN Co  as it has sought  and whether it would seek to write off the investment in the NBN.

She replied that Labor had asked for an ANAO assessment to obtain the information that it did not have as it was in Opposition.

"And we have a situation where the NBN (Co) not only obfuscates when it comes to getting answers to us on key economic issues and key issues about their business, but in some cases refusing to answer them at all," Rowland said.

"It's high time that we had an independent assessment of the mess that (Prime Minister) Malcolm Turnbull has made of this. We had a Joint Standing Committee of the Parliament call for this and it's high time we got this done so we have all the facts on the table, for the Australian public as well."

Asked whether she rejected the latest Auditor-General's report that said NBN Co had given a true and fair picture of the company's finances, Rowland said that one needed to look at what Standard and Poor's had said about this.

"It has specifically targeted the retrograde technology; it has specifically gone into detail about the dire situation in which we find ourselves with the economics of the NBN," she said.

"And we must always take into consideration the impact of factors such as second-rate technology, the costs of maintaining that; gosh, we've had HFC blow out by something like 50% and meanwhile, around the world, the costs of installing fibre have come down by just about as much."
The food industry has faced pressure from retailers as consumer awareness of genetically modified foods has increased.

A multinational agricultural company based in Idaho has acquired gene editing licensing rights that could one day be used to help farmers produce more crops and make grocery store offerings such as strawberries, potatoes and avocados stay fresher longer.

J.R. Simplot Company on Monday announced the agreement with DowDuPont Inc. and the Broad Institute of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, developers of the nascent gene editing technology. Simplot is the first agricultural company to receive such a license.

We think this is a transformative technology  its very powerful, said Issi Rozen, the chief business officer of the Broad Institute. Were delighted that Simplot is the first one to take advantage of the licensing.

There is no evidence that genetically modified organisms, known as GMOs, are unsafe to eat, but changing the genetic code of foods presents an ethical issue for some. For example, McDonalds had declined to use Simplots genetically engineered potatoes for its French fries.

The food industry has also faced pressure from retailers as consumer awareness of genetically modified foods has increased.

J.R. Simplot officials declined to say how much the company paid for the licensing rights acquired through a process intended to prevent the technology from being used unethically. The technology allows scientists to make precise changes to the genome of living organisms and has wide-ranging applications for improving plant food production and quality.

The issues are about getting the right kind of food produced in the right kind of way, said Neal Gutterson, chief technology officer at Corteva Agriscience, DowDuPonts agriculture division. Its important to be able to produce enough food for the nine to 10 billion people who will be on the planet in 30 years.

The gene editing technology is called CRISPR-Cas9, the first part an acronym for clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats. The technology speeds up the traditional process of breeding generation after generation of plants to get a certain desirable trait, saving years in developing new varieties that are as safe as traditionally developed varieties, scientists say.

Essentially, if an organisms genome is made analogous to a large manuscript, CRISPR-Cas9 allows scientists to edit specific words in the manuscript using a search and replace function. One of the remaining challenges, scientists say, is getting the complete genome for particular food crops. Or, to use the analogy, to not only have the complete manuscript but to have it translated so scientists know where to make the edits.

The CRISPR-Cas9 technology is so new that in March the US Department of Agriculture, which regulates how food is produced, issued a statement clarifying its oversight of foods produced with gene editing. Under its biotechnology regulations, USDA does not regulate or have any plans to regulate plants that could otherwise have been developed through traditional breeding techniques, the agency said.

Simplot markets products in more than 40 countries, and it has major operations in the United States, China, Canada, Australia and Mexico. The company, which is a top producer of avocados grown in Mexico and sold in the US, is perhaps best known for potatoes.

The company has already used other genetic techniques to adapt genes from wild and cultivated potatoes to produce commercially sold potatoes that resist bruising and late blight, which caused the Irish Potato Famine and continues to cause problems for potato farmers. Gene editing is expected to further the companys expertise in potatoes.

Thats part of our vision for Simplot  to be the knowledge leader for potatoes, said Susan Collinge, vice president of plant sciences at Simplot, where she supervises about 95 plant scientists.

Idaho produces 13 billion pounds (6 billion kilograms) of potatoes annually  a third of the nations potatoes  worth about $1.2 billion.

Gene editing likely wouldnt result in new varieties of potatoes for at least five years, and probably longer before the potatoes could be sold commercially, Collinge said.

(Source)
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Six months after quitting job, he won Democratic primary and is pitching for tough battle against 5-term Republican incumbent Pete Olson.

Finding it difficult to defend the Trump administrations policies as a diplomat especially over race and immigration, Sri Preston Kulkarni last December decided to quit his dream job at the US state department to run for Congress. (YouTube grab from KulkarniForCongress)

Washington: Finding it difficult to defend the Trump administrations policies as a diplomat especially over race and immigration, Sri Preston Kulkarni last December decided to quit his dream job at the US state department to run for Congress.

Kulkarni, whose family traces its roots to Maharashtra and Karnataka, on his website said he spent his career trying to reduce conflict in other countries...but right now hostility and conflict are being inflamed in our own country through the politics of anger and demagoguery.

I have worked under Democratic and Republican administrations before, but the current situation is different and should concern all Americans of conscience, he said on his website.

After quitting his job, Kulkarni announced that he will run for the 22nd Congressional District of Texas, to be part of the policy making, and not implementing them.

Six months later, he won the Democratic primary and is pitching for a tough battle against five-term Republican incumbent Pete Olson.

There is a little bit of nervousness on the other side about (my) campaign, Kulkarni told PTI.

Kulkarnis family immigrated to the US in 1969 to Louisiana, where he was born in 1978. Soon thereafter they moved to Houston, where Kulkarni grew.

After completing his college, he joined the US foreign service in 2003 and has worked in various capacities in both inside the US and overseas. This summer he was posted for the important position of the spokesperson of the US Embassy in New Delhi.

Being an Indian-American, representing the US was very important, he said.

But I think the 2016 election for me actually drove home as some of these issues are still unresolved for America, he said.

During that election, there was so much anti-immigrant sentiment being spread that it was a real blow to me personally. When I came back to the State Department, I said (to myself) Im just going to continue to be a professional and Im going to do this job, he said.

But, there were two incidents that changed his mind and made him feel that he couldnt continue in the State Department.

One was the Charlottesville rally one year ago where we had Nazis in the street screaming about white supremacy and my government could not make a clear distinction. Thats absolutely morally unequivocally awful. I was asked to explain this when I was overseas. Why is it that theyre very fine people who were Nazis and why is it that both sides are the same? I couldnt do that, Kulkarni said.

At the rally last summer, white supremacists and counterprotesters clashed in the streets before a car plowed into a crowd, killing 32-year-old counterprotester.

The second was the Roy Moore campaign, Kulkarni recollected.

He was molesting 14-year-old girls and he said that our families are stronger when we had slavery and that Muslims shouldnt be able to hold a public office in the United States. To me thats just beyond whats acceptable in the kind of democracy and the kind of society that I believe in, he said.

Moore was the Republican nominee in the 2017 US Senate special election in Alabama to fill the seat vacated by Jeff Sessions. Moore, who had faced multiple allegations of sexual assault during his campaign was backed by president Donald Trump. Later he lost to Democratic candidate Doug Jones.

At the time of these incidents, Kulkarni was in Jamaica on a temporary assignment. His next posting was at the US Embassy in New Delhi as its spokesperson. 

I decided that I was going to resign to come back home and run for office. Because I think we need to stand up against this idea that we should be divided up by, by race, by ethnicity, and that some people are less American than other people. Thats when I started the campaign, Kulkarni said.

Kulkarni resigned from the foreign service in December.

Kulkarni says that its not about just one person, Trump as an individual.

It is more about these ideas that we should be divided against each other, Muslim versus Hindu or Muslim or Christian or Hindu versus Christian or black versus white or Asian versus white. That ideas are the more dangerous thing than a person, he said.

He said the social fabric of America was being torn apart and Americans were blaming immigrants for everything.

If the fight is against illegal immigrants, then why H-1B programme is being threatened. Why are we trying to reduce legal immigration and family reunification? he asked.

It doesnt have to do with illegal immigration. That has to do with anti-immigrant sentiment. The anti-immigrant sentiment is something that should worry all of us because we are an immigrant country and honestly, without immigrants, most of our fortune 500 companies wouldnt be here, Kulkarni said.

But whenever any group is discriminated against, its a threat to all minority groups. If a Muslim is being discriminated against, it still affects me as a Hindu, Kulkarni said.

Now running an effective campaign, Kulkarni, pollsters say has considerably reduced the poll numbers against his rival Olson, who is considered to be a friend of India in the US Congress.

Kulkarni, who is a cousin of BJP member of Parliament Poonam Mahajan, hopes that the entire community would come out to vote in November.
IWU Tops State of Illinois in Graduate Earning Analysis

Aug. 7, 2018

A recent data analysis from Zippia which calculated Small Colleges with the Highest Earning Graduates by State ranked IWU No. 1 in Illinois.



BLOOMINGTON, Ill.  An Illinois Wesleyan University education pays dividends, as shown in a recent data analysis from Zippia which calculated Small Colleges with the Highest Earning Graduates by State and ranked IWU No. 1 in Illinois.

The list from Zippia, a career advice website, used public data from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard to calculate the average earnings of graduates from four-year institutions 10 years after entry into the workforce. IWU graduates earn $60,500 on average, which is more than $25,000 above the national median.

Other notable liberal arts institutions that joined Illinois Wesleyan atop their respective states included Amherst College, Bates College and Lafayette College. The frequent mentions of similar institutions speaks to the value of a holistic education in preparing students for success in todays job market, according to Hart Career Center Director Warren Kistner 83.

It is one thing to look at immediate results, such as a student's first job, but quite another to see how your education allows you to advance in your career field, Kistner said. IWU students develop skills that serve them well as they seek employment upon graduation, pursue graduate or professional study, and ultimately advance in their chosen field. It is not surprising to me that our graduates are uniquely positioned to excel on their career paths and seize opportunities that come their way.

As demonstrated by results from Zippias data analysis, the well-rounded experience gained from an Illinois Wesleyan education arms students with the flexibility to adapt in a constantly changing job market.

The IWU educational experience is one that prepares students not just for their first job but for a career  a lifetime of jobs, many of which cant even be anticipated at this time, explained Provost and Dean of Faculty Mark Brodl.

In addition to leading the state in Zippia's graduate earning analysis, Illinois Wesleyan also ranks No. 1 in job placement among Illinois undergraduate institutions, according to Zippia.

We intentionally build close academic relationships between students and faculty from the get-go," Brodl said. "These mentee-mentor relationships cultivate strong critical thinkers, creative problem solvers, effective communicators, talented collaborators, insightful consumers of information, and ethical and compassionate decision-makers. These are the qualities that make for successful careers."

By Rachel McCarthy 21
At least seven photojournalists were injured in attacks with sharp weapons, sticks and iron rods while covering the protests on Sunday.

Dhaka: Journalists in Bangladesh on Tuesday gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government to arrest those involved in attacks on some of their colleagues while covering the unprecedented protests by the students over road safety, according to media reports.

At least seven photojournalists, including an Associated Press (AP) photographer, were injured in attacks with sharp weapons, sticks and iron rods by youths wearing helmets at Dhanmondi, Jigatala and Science Laboratory areas on Sunday, while covering the protests.

Thousands of students brought parts of the Bangladesh capital to a standstill after two teenagers were killed by a speeding bus on July 29. A large number of journalists and photojournalists also gathered in front of the Jatiya Press Club here this morning and formed a human chain in protest against the attacks, the Daily Star reported.

"Journalists gave a 72-hour ultimatum to the government for arresting those who attacked some their colleagues during the ongoing student movement seeking safe roads. Otherwise, they will launch tougher programmes from August 11," President of Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Molla Jalal was quoted as saying while addressing protesting scribes at the Jatiya Press Club.

They demanded the government to identify and arrest those involved in attacks on journalists after analysing the video footage.

"I am urging the information minister and home minister to sit with the journalists and try to identify those who played a role in the attacks and ensure they are punished," BFUJ general secretary Shaban Mahmud was quoted as saying in the Daily Star.

A number of journalists also formed a human chain at the SAARC Fountain in Karwan Bazar area. It is alleged that students associated with the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) which is associated with the ruling Awami League and the Bangladesh Juba League (BJL) -- the ruling party's youth front, were involved in attacks on journalists, media reports said.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader has asked journalists to come up with clear evidence that the BCL was involved in the attacks on their colleagues.

"Tell me specifically who from Chhatra League were involved? Please give me a list," he told reporters during a press conference at the party chief's office at Dhanmondi on Monday. He refuted allegations that members of the ruling party's student wing were involved in the attacks on the journalists in the Dhanmondi area on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the police have arrested 11 people for the violence during the unprecedented protests by the students over road safety.

"Police have registered 27 cases and the number of arrests and cases would rise," Md Muntasirul Islam, a deputy commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police was quoted as saying by bdnews24.com.

Six people were detained over student-police clashes at Shahbagh on Monday.
by Wang Zhicheng

No reason for the ban. The suspicion is that the image of the bear "offends" the cult of of Xi Jinping.

Beijing (AsiaNews) - The Chinese film authorities have banned the release of the new Disney movie on Winnie the Pooh. The film, "Christopher Robin", is a family film, which tells the story of a man who as an adult finds himself with his childhood bear.

No explanation was given for the move, but many in the country think that the exclusion is due to the ongoing censorship of the figure of the little bear, compared many times to the fat President Xi Jinping

It all started in 2013, when a photo of Xi walking along with the then president Barack Obama was posted in social media, compared to one in which Winnie the Pooh appears together with the character Tigger (see photo 2).

In 2014, a picture of Xi shaking hands with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was placed next to one of Pooh with Eeyore (photo 3).

Thus, while in the country the cult of personality grew for Xi, called "the heart of leadership", censorship began to block and erase all references to the bear from the web.

The Hollywood reporter claims that the non-release of the film on Winnie the Pooh can only be due to the fact that the authorities in China allow the release only a certain number of foreign films every year. And maybe the movie on the bear was one too many.
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Paul Manafort, Donald Trumps campaign manager, is being tried for money laundering, keeping some 15 illegal foreign accounts, and cheating the government out of the taxes he rightfully owed, among a host of other crimes.

Manafort joined Trumps presidential campaign in March, 2016, having offered to work for free, and tried to persuade delegates to back trump. On June 20, 2016, Trump made Manafort his campaign manager. Manafort was intimately involved in running the campaign, overseeing millions of dollars, campaign strategy, and staffing. Manafort was involved in the infamous meeting on June 9, 2016, with Russian agent Natalia Veselnitskaya, set up by Emin Agalarov and Vladimir Putin, which Trump and his son Don Jr. are said to have attempted to get hacked dirt on Hillary Clinton from the Russians. The quid pro quo would be the lifting of Magnitsky Act sanctions on Putin cronies and oligarchs in Russia who allegedly had been involved in the murder of political opponent. As campaign chair, Manafort had a plank taken out of the Republican platform that pledged military aid to Ukraine to fight Russian incursions in the east. Manafort had allegedly received over $12 mn from the pro-Russian Ukrainian Party of Regions at one time headed by Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovych. When this allegation became public in mid-August, Trump fired Manafort after the latters 6 months of direct service, and brought the fascist white nationalist Steve Bannon aboard in the campaign chairman position.

Manaforts business associate Rick Gates has rolled over on him, providing the Federal government with information on the illegal activities that the two engaged in, and admitting along the way that he, Gates, had defrauded Manafort of some $800,000.

Where did the millions of dollars come from that Manafort allegedly laundered or hid in secret overseas accounts?

Well, some millions appear to have come from Russian oil money, laundered through Ukrainian sockpuppets.

But Manafort was not new at this business of influence peddling. He had worked on the Gerald Ford and George H. W. Bush campaigns, and was extremely well-connected in the Republican Party. His lobbying firm in the 1990s and after represented the most sordid gallery of torturers and villains ever assembled in one client list.

There was no strong man so idious that Manafort would not take his money and make phone calls to his old buddies on his behalf.

Manaforts firm represented the Saudis for several months at one point.

The firm is alleged to have gotten money from the Pakistani Inter Services Intelligence to promote the cause of Muslim separatists in Indias Kashmir province. There is nothing wrong with Kashmirs people wanting better governance, but the whole affair was likely a false flag operation.

Even as late as fall, 2016, Manafort was still lobbying away, taking money to help organize the ill-fated referendum for independence in Iraqi Kurdistan, which the Baghdad government shut down by sending in troops.

Note that in addition to Russia, the Middle East bulks large in all this corruption.

Behind the scenes, Manafort was providing the only value added he knew: connections. He would make The Call. To the movers and shakers. Congressional representatives, senators, powerful people in Washington. Because of Manaforts long association with them, he was a known quantity. They would take the call from him, give him his 15 minutes of lobbying time.

(I was once told by a staffer in Congress that a representatives day is divided into 15-minute segments, in which lobbyists one after another come to her or him to lay out what their clients wanted. The implication was that the client would donate to the Congress-persons campaign. Running for national office is expensive, mainly because of the cost of radio and television ads (which however ought to be nationalized and made free). Representatives have to start fundraising the day they are elected for the election only 2 years away. They have to promise favors to the donors. The US is peculiar among the industrialized democracies in allowing more or less open bribery.

Manafort was the fixer, the go-between.

His alleged role in setting Trump up with Putin and his hackers was not a departure or something unusual. It was what Manafort did. He took money for being an influencer, and for putting the courtesan with her john.

Manafort is not a criminal in the sense of a deviant. He is all too normal in the US political system. He is how the system works.

White collar criminals like Manafort and Trump are no longer even investigated or prosecuted. Manafort had been getting away with it for decades because he was so well connected. Surely the NSA, which tracks contacts with foreign governments and watches money transfers bigger than $10,000, knew about the Manafort problem, but they did nothing.

Trump and Manafort made one big mistake. They became principals in national politics. And principals in national politics are the one kind of figure whose white collar crime really can become an issue, because of adversarial political campaigns and because there are fairly explicit laws against things like bribery or being a Manchurian candidate. If they had stayed behind the scenes, making shadowy deals, they likely would have gone to their graves with their crimes unexamined.

But make no mistake about it. The indictment of Manafort is an indictment of America, a death knell for US democracy. Manafort is who we have become.

Featured Photo: AFP/File / MANDEL NGAN. Paul Manafort is on trial for bank and tax fraud.
TORONTO, Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Unigold Inc. (Unigold or the Company) (TSX-V:UGD) is pleased to provide the following update regarding its plans to resume exploration on the Companys 100% owned Neita Fase II Exploration Concession located in the Dominican Republic.

The Ministry of Energy and Mines approved the Companys application to explore the 21,031 hectare concession in May 2018. The Company is currently awaiting approval of the Environmental License for the granted Exploration Concession. This application is currently awaiting final approval by the Minister of the Environment. Approval is expected in the third quarter of 2018. On approval, the Company will resume active exploration of the Candelones Project, and plans to focus on increasing the current mineral resource estimate.

The Company plans to:

evaluate the near surface oxide mineralization at the Candelones Main and Connector Zones; and

complete a follow up Induced Polarization (IP) survey targeting the high grade, gold-copper massive sulphide mineralization discovered at the Candelones Extension deposit in 2016.

Joseph Del Campo, Interim President and CEO of Unigold commented, We are eager to resume exploration on the Neita Concession, especially at the Candelones Project where we believe there is an excellent opportunity to increase both the near surface oxide resource as well as the deep, high grade sulphide resource. Petrographic work on samples collected in 2016 concluded that the massive sulphide mineralization intersected by our 2016 drilling has an epigenetic origin. Recent analysis by our Senior Geophysical Consultant of the IP survey completed in 2011, combined with physical properties testing on drill core, suggest that additional ground IP surveys could assist in identifying the continuation of the massive sulphide mineralization and assist in drill targeting. The oxide mineralization at the Candelones Main and Connector deposits is a compelling exploration target given that metallurgical work in 2007 indicated robust gold recoveries. Review of the historical drilling suggests that the oxide mineralization extends from surface to a depth of 10-15 metres. We believe the oxide resource represents an opportunity for a small, efficient and profitable starter pit that would establish early initial cash flow allowing for the development of the higher grade, sub-surface sulphide resource at the Candelones Extension.

The current mineral resource estimates for the Candelones Project, comprised of the Candelones Main, Candelones Connector and Candelones Extension deposits (Ref. Figure 1.0). are summarized in Table 1.0.

Figure 1.0  Candelones Project Drill Plan over Gradient Induced Polarization Chargeability.

Table 1.0  Summary of Historical Mineral Resource Estimates  Candelones Project

Date Classification Source / Deposit Tonnes Au Au ozs Strip Press Release # Mineralization (x1,000) (g/t) (x1,000) Ratio Type 11/12/2013 (1,3,4,5) INFERRED Open Pit Main 2,448 0.92 72 1.3 UGD-2013-22 OXIDE Connector 1,108 1.12 40 1.3 Extension - 0.00 - 0.0 Subtotal 3,556 0.98 112 1.3 INFERRED Open Pit Main 5,003 1.16 186 1.3 SULPHIDE Connector 980 1.08 34 1.3 Extension 24,223 1.59 1,241 7.6 Subtotal 30,206 1.50 1,461 6.4 INFERRED Underground Main 704 2.21 50 0.0 SULPHIDE Connector 50 2.49 4 0.0 Extension 4,977 2.42 387 0.0 Subtotal 5,731 2.39 441 0.0 INFERRED TOTAL 39,493 1.59 2,014 NA 2/24/2015 (2,3,4,6,7) UGD 2015-2 INFERRED Underground SULPHIDE Extension 5,274 5.27 894 NA

Mineral resources were estimated by Mr. W. Lewis, P.Geo. and Mr. A. San Martin, MAusIMM(CP) of Micon International Ltd. (Micon), a Toronto based consulting company, independent of Unigold. Both Mr. Lewis and Mr. San Martin meet the requirements of a qualified person as established by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (May 2014) (the CIM Standards). The 2014 estimate is based on a long term gold price of US$ 1,500 per ounce and economic cut-off grades 0.32 g/t Au (OXIDE), 0.56 g/t (SULPHIDE) and 1.25 g/t (UNDERGROUND SULPHIDE). Open pit resources are reported within an optimized pit shell; underground resources are reported beneath the defined optimized pit shell. Mineral resources were estimated by Mr. W. Lewis, P.Geo. and Mr. A. San Martin, MAusIMM(CP) of Micon International Ltd. (Micon), a Toronto based consulting company, independent of Unigold. Both Mr. Lewis and Mr. San Martin meet the requirements of a qualified person as established by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (May 2014) (the CIM Standards). The 2014 estimate is based on a long term gold price of US$ 1,200 per ounce, a long term copper price of US$ 3.00 per pound and an economic cut-off grade of 3.50 g/t Au and assumed exploitation of the Candelones Extension deposit by means of underground mining. The mineral resource estimates are classified as INFERRED. CIM Standards define a Mineral Resource as a concentration of material in or on the Earth's crust in such form and quantity and of such grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction." The CIM Standards further define an INFERRED Mineral Resource as "that part of a Mineral Resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonable assumed but not verified, geological and grade continuity." The CIM Standards state: "Due to the uncertainty that may be attached to Inferred Mineral Resources, it cannot be assumed that all or part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will be upgraded to an Indicated or Measured Mineral Resource as a result of continued exploration. Micon has not identified any legal, political, environmental or other risks that could materially affect the potential development of the mineral resource presented. The procedures, methodology and key assumptions supporting this mineral resource estimate are included in the Technical Report titled: "NI-43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimate for the Candelones Project, Neita Concession, Dominican Republic" with an Effective Date of November 4, 2013. The Technical Report is available on SEDAR as well as the Company's website. The procedures, methodology and key assumptions supporting this mineral resource estimate are included in the Technical Report titled: "NI-43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource Estimate for the Candelones Extension Deposit, Candelones Project, Neita Concession, Dominican Republic" with an Effective Date of February 24, 2015. The Technical Report is available on SEDAR as well as the Company's website. Contains 41,175,000 lbs copper grading 0.35%.

Oxide Resource Opportunity

Historical drilling and trenching at the Candelones Main deposit intersected oxide mineralization where the Candelones Main deposit outcrops on the Candelones Main hill. Extensive surface trench sampling, largely at the Candelones Main deposit (~4000 samples), averages 3.5 g/t Au.

The exploration data defines a WNW trending corridor for over 500 metres in length and measures approximately 100 metres in width. The interpreted oxide trend is coincident with the topographic high defining the Candelones Main hill (Reference Figure 2.0).

At the Candelones Connector deposit, 200 metres to the southeast, a second oxide trend, measuring 250 metres in length and 100 metres in width, trends NE. The Connector oxide trend is defined largely by diamond drilling and is open along strike in both directions.

Figure 2.0  Candelones Main and Connector Oxide Resource Area

The 2013 mineral resource estimate (Reference Table 1.0), estimated a total inferred oxide resource of 72,000 ozs of gold at the Candelones Main deposit with an additional 40,000 ozs of gold at the Candelones Connector. The average grade of the inferred oxide resource was estimated to be 1.0 g/t Au. Of particular interest is the fact that the average grade of the trench sample data from the defined oxide resource area is 3.5 g/t Au. As core recovery in the oxide mineralization was typically less than 50%, the Company believes that the grade of the oxide resource, based solely on the diamond drill results, may be understated.

The Company is planning to excavate targeted, vertical test pits centered on historical drill holes that intersected high grade oxide mineralization (Reference Figures 3.0 and 4.0). All four walls of the pits will be continuously channel sampled vertically on 1.0 metre intervals. The samples would be assayed for gold using the Companys established assaying protocol. In addition, bottle roll and cyanide leach analyses will be completed to provide an initial estimate of metallurgical recovery.

Figure 3.0  Candelones Main Oxide Resource Section A-A Looking North

The assay results will be compared directly to the results returned by the drill hole on which the test pit is centered. The Company believes this will provide an indication as to whether or not the observed core loss in diamond drilling has understated the grade of the oxide resource.

The Company is currently identifying suitable excavators in the Dominican Republic that would be able to complete the planned test pit program.

Assuming that the results of the test pit program confirm there is an opportunity to increase the grade of the oxide resource, then the Company would initiate efforts to mobilize a reverse circulation drill to site and complete a close spaced drill program along the two oxide trends. The objective of that drill program would be to establish the limits of the oxide resource and complete a measured and indicated mineral resource estimate that would support a Pre-feasibility level study.

Figure 4.0  Candelones Connector Oxide Resource Section B-B Looking East

High Grade Sulphide Opportunity

Exploration drilling during 2016 focused on high grade areas within the defined mineral resource footprint with the dual objectives of defining a mineral resource amenable to underground mining and to increase the confidence level of the inferred resource to measured and indicated classification. This targeted approach identified three areas of higher grade mineralization within the existing mineral resource footprint, all of which remain open and represent an opportunity to increase both the size and quality of the mineral resource estimate.

Table 2.0 presents the significant intercepts of the most recent exploration at the Candelones Extension deposit.

Table 2.0  Significant Drill Intercepts - 2016

Target Hole ID From To Interval (1) Au Cu (#) (m) (m) (m) (g/t) (%) "Target A" - Au-Cu rich massive

to semi-massive sulphides-flat lying,

plunging 30 degrees NE, historical

drilling overshot this massive sulphide

system which remains open down

plunge to the east. LP15-93 298.6 314.3 15.7 7.45 1.1 LP15-94 No massive or semi massive sulphides LP15-95 252.6 287.5 34.9 6.19 0.6 309.9 314.0 4.1 7.31 1.1 LP15-96 279.0 313.0 34.0 4.15 0.4 324.0 333.0 9.0 4.81 0.7 LP16-101 409.6 419.4 9.8 3.10 0.6 LP16-102 No massive or semi massive sulphides LP16-114 256.8 278.0 21.2 6.00 0.9 LP16-115 288.3 294.0 5.7 3.80 1.2 LP16-116 214.0 239.0 25.0 1.50 0.0 LP16-117 290.0 295.0 5.0 1.80 0.6 LP16-118 180.0 185.0 5.0 7.80 0.3 and 252.0 257.0 5.0 3.06 0.9 LP16-124 333.3 339.2 5.9 11.80 0.2 LP16-126 No massive or semi massive sulphides LP16-127 No massive or semi massive sulphides "Target B" -Stacked

vertical feeder, upper Zn-Ag-Au-Cu

mineralization; lower Au-Cu massive

to semi-massive sulphides similar to

Target A. LP16-97 249.0 264.0 15.0 1.15 0.0 LP16-98 245.8 250.6 4.8 7.32 0.2 LP16-99 276.6 283.0 6.4 4.23 0.2 LP16-100 291.1 300.6 9.5 2.43 0.2 and 307.5 319.5 12.0 7.46 1.4 LP16-119 224.7 264.5 39.8 1.40 0.1 LP16-120 255.2 274.0 18.8 2.00 0.1 and 363.0 369.7 6.7 3.30 1.9 LP16-121 269.5 302.0 32.5 0.90 0.1 LP16-122 No significant values LP16-123 265.4 280.1 14.7 6.50 0.9 and 371.5 379.5 8.0 9.40 0.9 LP16-128 249.6 274.0 24.4 3.20 0.2 and 333.8 336.5 2.7 5.20 0.7 and 461.0 462.1 1.1 0.60 0.4 "Target C" - Au-Ag-Zn rich

semi-massive sulphides - open to

the west - historical drilling

interpreted to have overshot this

higher grade mineralization. LP16-103 117.0 123.0 6.0 8.86 0.2 LP16-104 134.9 138.2 3.3 5.06 0.2 LP16-105 176.0 184.0 8.0 6.30 0.1 LP16-106 141.0 154.3 13.3 1.08 0.1 LP16-107 168.0 311.0 143.0 1.44 0.1 LP16-108 190.0 197.0 7.0 1.30 0.3 LP16-109 165.0 169.0 4.0 10.10 0.2 LP16-110 155.4 160.0 4.6 3.40 0.1 233.0 245.0 12.0 9.70 0.1 LP16-111 250.0 252.0 2.0 5.00 0.2 LP16-112 No significant values LP16-113 223.1 228.6 5.5 4.10 0.1

(1) - Interval is measured down hole and should not be interpreted as true width.

Jeremy S. Brett, M.Sc., P.Geo. of MPH Consulting Limited (MPH), the Companys Senior Geophysical Consultant, has reviewed the IP data acquired by Insight Geophysics Inc. in 2011. They have advised the Company of the following:

Inversion of the data by MPH indicates that IP accurately depicts the mineral resource envelop at Candelones (Reference Figures 5.0 and 6.0);

The 2011 IP data is not optimally oriented to isolate the massive sulphide mineralization intersected in 2016. The NE orientation of the massive sulphide mineralization places it in the null of the N-S oriented IP gradient lines (Reference Figure 1.0);

The 2011 IP survey included N-S Insight Sections on roughly 400 metre spacings. This line spacing was not adequate to resolve the high grade, sub vertical feeders identified by recent drilling; and

The 2011 survey was designed to evaluate the IP responses to a depth of 300 metres from surface. Deeper looking Insight Section data is required to resolve the Massive Sulfide body.

Figure 5.0 - Candelones Extension IP Survey Inversions with Resource Shell looking NNW

MPH has recommended a follow up IP survey with the following design considerations:

Close spaced IP gradient lines on 100 metre centres;

Lines would be oriented parallel and perpendicular to the massive sulphide mineralization; and

The survey would be designed to evaluate to a maximum depth of 500 metres from surface.

Figure 6.0  Candelones Extension IP Survey Inversions with Resource Shell looking NW

The Company believes that the new IP survey will highlight the massive sulphide mineralization and provide a signature response that can be used to evaluate targets elsewhere within the Concession boundary in the future. It will also assist in drill targeting to expand the massive sulphide mineralization and, by extension, increase the mineral resources of the Candelones Extension deposit.

MPH has provided a grid layout. On approval of the Environmental License, the Company plans to mobilize local labour to establish the grid in the field. The Company currently estimates that the grid can be established within a month of approval of the Environmental License. The IP survey can commence once the grid has been established.

The Company believes that the IP survey can be completed and drill targets generated within six months of approval of the Environmental License.

QA/QC

Diamond drilling utilizes both HQ and NQ diameter tooling. Holes are established using HQ diameter tooling before reducing to NQ tooling to complete the hole. The core is received at the on-site logging facility where it is photographed, logged for geotechnical and geological data and subjected to other physical tests including magnetic susceptibility and specific gravity analysis. Samples are identified, recorded, split by wet diamond saw, and half the core is sent for assay with the remaining half stored on site. A minimum sample length of 0.3 metres and a maximum sample length of 1.5 metres are employed with most samples averaging 1.0 metres in length except where geological contacts dictate. Certified standards and blanks are randomly inserted into the sample stream and constitute approximately 5-10% of the sample stream. Samples are shipped to a sample preparation facility in the Dominican Republic operated by Bureau Veritas. Assaying is performed at Bureau Veritas Commodities Canada Ltd.s laboratory in Vancouver, B.C. Canada. All samples are analyzed for gold using a 50 gram lead collection fire assay fusion with an atomic adsorption finish. In addition, most samples are also assayed using a 36 element multi-acid ICP-ES analysis method.

Wes Hanson P.Geo., Chief Operating Officer and Technical Director of Unigold, who is a qualified person under the definitions established by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the contents of this press release.

About Unigold Inc.  Discovering Gold in the Caribbean

Unigold is a Canadian based mineral exploration company traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol UGD, focused primarily on exploring and developing its gold assets in the Dominican Republic.

For further information please visit www.unigoldinc.com or contact:

Mr. Joseph Del Campo, Interim President & CEO This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

416.866.8157

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this document, including statements regarding events and financial trends that may affect our future operating results, financial position and cash flows, may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are based on our assumptions and estimates and are subject to risk and uncertainties. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words like strategy, expects, plans, believes, will, estimates, intends, projects, goals, targets, and other words of similar meaning. You can also identify them by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. We wish to caution you that such statements contained are just predictions or opinions and that actual events or results may differ materially. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are made as of the date hereof and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Where applicable, we claim the protection of the safe harbour for forward-looking statements provided by the (United States) Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
New i ntercept s assay 23. 7 gpt gold over 4.5 m & 10.9 gpt gold over 2.9 m

Individual assays up to 230 gpt gold over 0.4 m (6.7 oz per ton over 1.4 ft)

New drill intercepts located + 1, 000 m below historic production areas of I- M Mine

I-M historic production of 2.4 M oz gold @ 17 gpt over vertical distances of 310 - 475 m

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 7, 2018) - Rise Gold Corp. (CSE: RISE) (OTCQB: RYES) ("Rise Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce additional assay results from on-going diamond core drilling at the Idaho-Maryland ("I-M") Gold Project.

Drillhole B-18-05 previously extended the Brunswick veins to a vertical depth of ~475 m below the B1600 level with an intercept which assayed 22.4 gpt gold over 5.2 m (see Rise Gold news release dated July 23rd 2018).

Drillhole B-18-05 was continued to target the down-dip extension of the Idaho Veins and intersected two new veins which are believed to correlate with the Idaho 3 Vein system. The first, named the IB30 Vein, assayed 23.7 gpt gold over 4.5 m at a downhole depth of 1,590 m. The IB30 Vein is an important gold-bearing structure and is interpreted to be the down-dip extension of the Idaho 3 Vein system. The interval adjacent to the quartz vein was exceptionally high grade and assayed 230 gpt (6.7 oz/ton) gold over 0.4 m. A wide zone of alteration and lower grade gold mineralization surrounds the IB30 Vein with the entire zone averaging 6.9 gpt gold over 18.0 m.

Assays are pending for several other quartz veins intersected between the IB30 and IB50 Veins.

Rise Gold plans additional drilling to confirm the orientation and up-dip extension of these veins towards the Idaho vein system. Figures 1 & 2 illustrate these intersections in relation to the historic mine workings; a summary of the assay highlights are presented in Table 1.

Benjamin Mossman, CEO of Rise Gold commented "These deep drill intercepts demonstrate the large exploration potential of the Idaho-Maryland Gold Project. To be able to hit deep high-grade gold mineralization with a single blind hole speaks to the great strength of this gold system. Rise has intersected multiple zones of important gold mineralization in all five holes completed to date. This deposit is known for hosting exceptionally continuous gold veins and every drill hole reinforces our belief that the Idaho-Maryland is one of the most exciting high-grade gold projects in America."

TABLE 1  New Drill Intercept Highlights from B-18-05

Hole From (m) To (m) Gold (gpt) Intercept Length (m) Estimated True Width (m) * Vein B-18-05 1590.1 1594.6 23.7 4.5 3.2 IB30 Including 1593.6 1594.0 230.0 0.4 B-18-05 1887.5 1890.4 10.9 2.9 2.0 IB50 Including 1889.4 1889.9 61.0 0.5

* The core angle of the quartz vein was observed to be ~45 degrees which suggests a true width of ~70% of the intercept length.

Drillhole B-18-05 final downhole depth of 1,910 m, collared at an azimuth of ~40 degrees and inclination of -77 degrees horizontal.

FIGURE 1  Isometric view of B-18-05 showing correlation with Idaho Veins

FIGURE 2  Section of B-18-05 illustrating relationship between deep intercepts and I-M Mine

Quality Control and Assay Methods

Dr. Dirk Meckert, P.Geo, the qualified person for the exploration drill results disclosure contained in this news release, has studied the drill core discussed in this news release, and has reviewed the analytical and quality control results.

Benjamin Mossman, P.Eng, CEO of Rise Gold, is the qualified person for the historic production disclosure contained in this news release. Historic production at the Idaho-Maryland Mine is disclosed in the Technical Report on the Idaho-Maryland Project dated June 1st, 2017 and available on www.sedar.com.

Rise has implemented a quality control program for its drill program to ensure best practice in the sampling and analysis of the drill core. This includes the insertion of blind blanks, duplicates and certified standards. HQ- and NQ-sized drill core is saw cut with half of the drill core sampled at intervals based on geological criteria including lithology, visual mineralization, and alteration. The remaining half of the core is stored on-site at the Company's warehouse in Grass Valley, California. Drill core samples are transported in sealed bags to ALS Minerals analytical assay lab in Reno, Nevada.

All gold assays were obtained using a method of screen fire assaying. This procedure involves screening a large pulverized sample of up to 1 kg at 100 microns. Any +100 micron material remaining on the screen is retained and analyzed in its entirety by fire assay with gravimetric finish and reported as the Au (+) fraction result. The 100 micron fraction is homogenized and two sub-samples of 30-50 grams are analyzed by fire assay with AAS finish. If the grade of the material exceeds 10 gpt the sample is re-assayed using a gravimetric finish. The average of the two results is taken and reported as the Au (-) fraction result. All three values are used in calculating the combined gold content of the plus and minus fractions.

About Rise Gold Corp

Rise Gold is an exploration-stage mining company. The Company's principal asset is the historic past-producing Idaho-Maryland Gold Mine located in Nevada County, California, USA. The Idaho-Maryland Gold Mine is one of the United States' greatest past producing gold mines with total past production of 2,414,000 oz of gold at an average mill head grade of 17 gpt gold from 1866-1955. Historic production at the Idaho-Maryland Mine is disclosed in the Technical Report on the Idaho-Maryland Project dated June 1st, 2017 and available on www.sedar.com. Rise Gold is incorporated in Nevada, USA and maintains its head office in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Benjamin Mossman

President, CEO and Director

Rise Gold Corp.

For further information, please contact:

RISE GOLD CORP.

Suite 650, 669 Howe Street

Vancouver, BC V6C 0B4

T: 604.260.4577

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.risegoldcorp.com

The CSE has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the contents of this news release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur.

Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions related to certain factors including, without limitation, obtaining all necessary approvals, meeting expenditure and financing requirements, compliance with environmental regulations, title matters, operating hazards, metal prices, political and economic factors, competitive factors, general economic conditions, relationships with vendors and strategic partners, governmental regulation and supervision, seasonality, technological change, industry practices, and one-time events that may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information contained in this release. Rise undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law.
VANCOUVER, B.C., Aug. 07, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Avrupa Minerals Ltd. (TSXV:AVU) (OTC:AVPMF) (FRANKFURT:8AM) (Avrupa or the Company) is pleased to provide an update on its recent exploration activities in Portugal.

Alvito IOCG Project

In July, Avrupa completed drilling on the Alvito Iron Oxide Copper-Gold (IOCG) Project, presently joint ventured with OZ Minerals (see recent news releases, May 3 and July 3, 2018), who are spending A$ 1 million on exploration as the first stage earn-in to 51% of the 300-square kilometer Project. Avrupa is the operator of the program.

Avrupa drilled 18 holes, totaling 2,437.5 meters in eight separate prospect areas on the Alvito exploration license. IOCG-style mineralization is present in drill holes in at least two of the prospect areas, Entre Matinhas and Entre as Matas. Possible IOCG-style sulfide mineralization is present in drill holes at the Outeiro and Manisela prospects. Epithermal-style sulfide mineralization is present at the Mata and Cova das Minas prospects. All samples from drill holes with IOCG-style mineralization have now been processed and delivered to the ALS Minerals prep lab in Seville, Spain. Results are expected during the second half of August.

Pyrite Belt licenses  Alvalade, Mertola, and Marateca

Avrupa continues in the negotiation process with a large, North American mining company to joint venture all three licenses. The process has been slower than anticipated, but continues in a positive manner. In the meantime, Avrupa continues to explore on the licenses, maintaining the validity of the licenses for the anticipated joint venture.

Covas Tungsten Project

Blackheath Resources has notified Avrupa of their intention to cease funding for the Covas Tungsten Project. Avrupa has let the license lapse and is in the process of handing over data and core to the Geological Survey of Portugal (LNEG), as required by the mining regulations of Portugal.

Avrupa Minerals Ltd. is a growth-oriented junior exploration and development company focused on discovery, using a prospect generator model, of valuable mineral deposits in politically stable and prospective regions of Europe, including Portugal, Kosovo, and Germany.

The Company currently holds seven exploration licenses in three European countries, including four in Portugal covering 2,892 km2, two in Kosovo covering 47 km2, and one in Germany covering 307 km2. Avrupa now has five active option and joint ventures, four in Portugal and one in Kosovo, including:

The Alvalade, Marateca and Mertola properties with an international mining company on the Iberian Pyrite Belt in southern Portugal.

The Alvito Option Agreement with OZ Minerals Limited covering one license in the Ossa Morena Zone in southern Portugal, for IOCG deposits; and,

Avrupas partner at the Slivovo Gold Project in Kosovo is fully funding the program, allowing Avrupa to dilute its ownership in the JV operating company Peshter Mining JSC. If AVU ownership goes below 10%, the interest in the project converts to a 2% NSR.

For additional information, contact Avrupa Minerals Ltd. at 1-604-687-3520 or visit our website at www.avrupaminerals.com.

On behalf of the Board,

Paul W. Kuhn

Paul W. Kuhn, President & Director

This news release was prepared by Company management, who take full responsibility for its content. Paul W. Kuhn, President and CEO of Avrupa Minerals, a Licensed Professional Geologist and a Registered Member of the Society of Mining Engineers, is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 of the Canadian Securities Administrators. He has reviewed the technical disclosure in this release. Mr. Kuhn, the QP, has not only reviewed, but prepared and supervised the preparation or approval of the scientific and technical content in the news release.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
VANCOUVER, Aug. 7, 2018 /CNW/ - Medgold Resources Corp. (TSX-V: MED) (the "Company" or "Medgold") is pleased to announce that diamond drilling at the Tlamino Gold Project has recommenced for a minimum Phase 2 program of 2,400 m. As well, preparation for 40 line-km of an IP-Resistivity program at the Karamanica Zone has commenced. The exploration and development of the Tlamino Gold Project is being conducted under programs which are fully funded by Fortuna Silver Mines Inc. (NYSE: FSM) (TSX: FVI) ("Fortuna"), and directed by a joint Fortuna-Medgold technical committee pursuant to the terms of the Tlamino Option Agreement announced on May 1, 2017.

Dan James, President of Medgold, said: "We're very pleased to have resumed drilling at Tlamino, following a short break to prepare for a much larger second phase of drilling. We will continue drilling to the west of the previously drilled zones, stepping-out along the main detachment structure, aiming to drill-test an area of 1,400 m by 500 m. We hope to build on our strong results from the Phase 1 program, which confirmed the presence of flat-lying high-grade mineralization, and is extensive over an area of at least 300 m by 200 m. We look forward to reporting initial results from this second phase of drilling in September 2018. We will also be reporting geophysical results, from the under-explored Karamanica Zone, in the Fall."

The Tlamino Gold Project

The Tlamino Gold Project (the "Project") is located in Southern Serbia, close to the borders of both Bulgaria and Macedonia, approximately five hours south of the capital, Belgrade. The Project is comprised of two exploration licences, Donje Tlamino and Surlica-Dukat, each approximately 100 km2. All exploration work at the Project is fully-funded by Fortuna, which has an option to earn up to 70% of the Project by spending US $8 million on exploration over five years and completing a Preliminary Economic Assessment (see Medgold news release of March 7, 2017).

The Barje Zone

The Barje Zone is host to a large outcrop of intense brecciation and mineralization, which was identified and sampled by Medgold in 2017, yielding a best result of 84 m of 5.60 g/t Au and 105 g/t Ag (see Company press release on July 18, 2017), following a period of target generation and desktop studies. An initial phase of diamond drilling at the Barje Zone (734 m from 7 holes) was completed in June 2018. All 7 drill holes intersected significant mineralization with a best intersection of 30 m of 5.45 g/t Au and 11 g/t Ag (see Company press release on July 5, 2018). A summary table of significant intersections from our first phase of drilling is shown in the table below.

Table 1  Summary of Drill Results from Phase 1

Drill Hole From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) BAR001 2.38 33.20 30.82 2.06 54.7 BAR002 13.35 48.00 34.65 3.11 27.5 BAR003 2.00 28.10 26.10 2.44 219 BAR004 2.20 24.30 22.10 1.83 109 BAR005 1.60 102.40 100.80 0.52 5 including 82.15 102.40 20.25 1.08 11 BAR006 74.00 104.00 30.00 5.45 11 including 95.00 104.00 9.00 14.17 58 BAR007 89.50 101.60 12.10 3.37 12

Mineralization has been identified over an area of at least 300 m by 200 m, and demonstrates a close spatial correlation with the IP-chargeability anomaly, which extends at least 700 m further to the west for a total of area of approximately 1,400 m east-west and 500 m north-south.

Gold-silver mineralization at Barje is associated with tectonic brecciation along a large regional detachment fault which is mostly hosted within the hangingwall schists. This brecciation has structurally prepared large volumes of porous and permeable rocks, suitable to host mineralization. Intense hydrothermal breccias, with sulphide mineralization groundmasses and altered schist clasts, typically form at the base of the hangingwall zones in close proximity to the detachment structure. These zones of intense brecciation, associated with sulphide mineralization, typically yield high-grade gold-silver intercepts. Brecciation, fracturing and sulphide mineralization is pervasive across large zones of the hanging wall schists and yields broad intersections of low-grade (>0.5 g/t Au) to moderate-grade (>1 g/t Au) gold plus silver mineralization.

The Karamanica Zone

The Karamanica Zone is part of the Project optioned to Fortuna, and is located approximately 8 km to the west of the Barje Zone. In 2017 Medgold completed a program of detailed mapping and rock sampling, plus a grid-soil sampling program, with samples collected on a 200 m by 50 m grid. Results from the soil sampling program highlight two large gold-in-soil anomalies. The first extends over an area of approximately 1 km by 1 km, and is associated with a regional northwest-trending fault, which offsets felsic volcanic rocks from basement schists and calcareous schists. The second, located approximately 1 km north of the first anomaly, extends over approximately 800 m by 600 m. Mineralization is considered to be associated with disseminated to massive sulphides within the host calcareous schists. The same fault structure, less than 2 km away along strike on an adjacent licence held by a third-party, hosts blind massive carbonate-replacement Pb-Zn-Ag mineralization. A ground-IP geophysical program will commence later this month, covering these gold-in-soil anomalies, for a total proposed program of approximately 40 line-km.

About Medgold Resources Corp.

Medgold is a Serbia-focused, TSX-V listed, project generator company targeting early-stage gold properties in the Oligo-Miocene Belt of Serbia. Run by an experienced management team with a successful track-record of building value in resource companies, Medgold is aiming to become a leading European gold exploration company.

Qualified Person

Mr. David Clark, M.Sc., P.Geo., is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Clark approved the disclosure of the technical information contained in this news release and has approved its disclosure.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

Half-core samples are delivered by Medgold personnel directly to the ALS Geochemistry laboratory facilities in Bor, Serbia. The samples are crushed and pulverised using method code PREP-31, are fire assayed for Au using method code Au-ICP21, and are analysed for multi-elements using method code ME-MS61 following a four-acid digestion. Overlimits are analysed using an appropriate method. Medgold routinely inserts multi-element geochemical standards, blanks, and field duplicate samples into the drill core sample stream to monitor laboratory performance.

Additional information on Medgold can be found on the Company's website at www.medgoldresources.com and by reviewing the Company's page on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Dan James"

Daniel P. James, President & Director

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking statements

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and include, without limitation, statements about the exploration plans for the Tlamino Project and the disclosure of results therefrom. Often, but not always, these forward looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "estimate", "estimates", "estimated", "potential", "open", "future", "assumed", "projected", "used", "detailed", "has been", "gain", "upgraded", "offset", "limited", "contained", "reflecting", "containing", "remaining", "to be", "periodically", or statements that events, "could" or "should" occur or be achieved and similar expressions, including negative variations.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Such uncertainties and factors include, among others, the exploration plans for the Tlamino Project; when exploration results will be disclosed; changes in general economic conditions and financial markets; the Company or any joint venture partner not having the financial ability to meet its exploration and development goals; risks associated with the results of exploration and development activities, estimation of mineral resources and the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; unanticipated costs and expenses; and such other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's quarterly and annual filings with securities regulators and available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.

Forward-looking statements contained herein are based on the assumptions, beliefs, expectations and opinions of management, including but not limited to: that the proposed exploration of the Tlamimo Project will proceed as intended; that results from such exploration will be disclosed when anticipated; that the Company's stated goals and planned exploration and development activities will be achieved; that there will be no material adverse change affecting the Company or its properties; and such other assumptions as set out herein. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Since the beginning of the year, Russian soldiers have become more and more visible in the Central African Republic, notably the capital Bangui, where some of them are now providing close protection for President Faustin Archange Touadera. To understand the real reasons and the possible implications of this Russian military presence in addition to the European Union military mission and the United Nations force, JusticeInfo spoke to French academic Didier Niewiadowski, a former professor of public law and former diplomat, notably in Bangui (2008-2012).

JusticeInfo: By calling on the Russian army, which is now advising the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) and giving them arms and munitions, is Touadera finally trying to get rid of the armed groups?

Didier Niewiadowski: By putting themselves under the umbrella of Russia and the screen of Russian private companies, President Touadera and his entourage want first of all to protect themselves against a coup detat and continue benefitting from their position. The improbable securing of the country is the task mainly of MINUSCA (UN mission in the CAR) and the process to bring the country out of crisis is defined in the African Union road map. But to preserve the status quo, the Central African president is setting multiple traps. The UN, the African Union and President Kagame (head of State of Rwanda, which is current chair of the African Union) are starting to learn this at their expense.

The current context suits the Russians well and they are unlikely to risk military operations against the rebel movements of the north-east, especially the Goula who are far from being their enemies. Their historical leader, former president Michel Djotodia, spent 14 years in Russia and he has again become a necessary party in the mediation attempts which are tending to cancel each other out and preserve the status quo. The recent aborted Russian mediation attempt in Khartoum shows that Russias role goes well beyond military advice and supplying arms but will not go as far as military confrontations, which would be highly risky, not only for the Russian soldiers but also for president Touadera, because it would break the status quo.

How have the armed groups reacted to this Russian presence, and doesnt it risk endangering the current African mediation?

Whilst the official Russian line is that they want to re-establish the authority of the State and strengthen the capacities of FACA, on the ground the employees of private Russian companies often make deals with the rebel leaders. The ambivalence of the Russians mirrors that of the Central African authorities.

Russian companies, which have been present in Darfur for numerous years, have good relations with certain ethnic groups like the Goula and the Runga, who form the backbone of the Popular Front for Central African Renaissance (FPRC), the main rebel movement in the northeast which is hostile to the Touadera regime. On the other hand the Peulhs, especially those of the UPC (Union for Peace in the CAR) do not much appreciate the Russian involvement.

The African Union is disappointed with president Touaderas behaviour. In private, those overseeing the Road Map regret the ambiguity of Touadera, who was absent from the pan-African Summit in Nouakchott on July 1-2, 2018, but who went to Lome for the ECOWAS-ECCAS Summit on July 30. Russias eruption onto the Central African scene complicates the task of the African Union and the UN and hampers coordination of the different efforts, notably within the G5 (UN, African Union, European Union, United States, France).

Or do you think President Touadera thinks he can bypass European technical assistance in the military domain?

A decision of the European Council dated July 30, 2018, expands and extends the EU military mission to the CAR (EUTM-RCA) until September 19, 2020. As well as training the military, the EUTM-RCA will now provide strategic counselling to the Ministry of Defence and the Presidency on security matters. France is still the biggest contributor to this European operation with some 50 trainers out of a total of about 170 men. The growing Russian presence in the CAR seems now to be under surveillance, with the agreement of leaders of neighbouring countries. France is currently concerned mainly with Cameroon and the DRC as they approach elections that can have weighty consequences, including for the CAR.

What relations do these Russian soldiers have with the UN forces?

It doesnt seem that there are relations of trust between the MINUSCA and EUTM-RCA soldiers and the Russian military instructors. And they are obviously non-existent with the Russian private security companies. Let us remember that for the end of Russian training ceremony on May 30 in Berengo, President Touadera, the government, top CAR military and Russian diplomats were in attendance for this high point of CAR-Russian cooperation. The French, American and European Union diplomats were not invited, whilst Western journalists were turned away.

How do Central Africans see this Russian military presence? Are the Russians seen as saviours by those who accuse the UN force of inaction?

Almost all Central Africans are fed up with MINUSCA. As well as performing well below their expectations, the behaviour of certain contingents, the allegations of smuggling in goods and even arms and the arrogance of some people in charge has seriously undermined the image of this operation to keep a peace that does not exist. On the other hand, the well-paid 12,000 UN peacekeepers help fuel the war economy in Bangui to the benefit of landlords, owners of hotels, restaurants and bars, and people in the import business. This artificial economy has little benefit for Central Africans in other parts of the country who continue to suffer. The arrival of the Russians is certainly hailed by supporters of President Touadera, but the Central African people are not stupid. They are hoping for national reconciliation, an end to impunity and the emergence of a new generation of leaders. The solution will come from Central Africans and not from foreigners, whoever they are.
by Sumon Corraya

After taking pictures of students attacked during the demonstrations, the photographer is accused of spreading panic and lies. Ruling party leader rejects accusations. Hundreds of students and teachers want to stop the protests.

Dhaka (AsiaNews)  The capital of Bangladesh has been paralysed for the past eight days by the protests of thousands of students. This follows the death of two young men in a car accident.

Government forces and supporters have tried to suppress the demonstrations, with some journalists caught up in the clashes.

The affected reporters  at least 10, including a woman  say they were attacked by young people from the Chatra League, a student organisation associated with the ruling party.

The group, which came armed to stop the students, lashed out at journalists and those who were documenting the protests in Dhakas Dhanmondi area.

Rahat Karim, a freelance photographer, complains that he was hit hard when he was "just taking pictures".

On Sunday evening, photographer Shahidul Alam (picture 2) was arrested for criticising the government's response to student protests.

Alam, a four-time World Press Photo jury member, took several pictures of young men attacking the demonstrators. He also criticised the government for the unsafe streets.

Yesterday, the police, after arresting him, asked the court for a 10-day remand to keep in jail. They got seven.

The photographer is accused of spreading "fear and panic" on the internet, using "fantastical and provocative lies".

In all, 45 people were accused of spreading rumours about the student protests. The police arrested three of them.

Obaidal Qader, secretary general of the Awami League, yesterday rejected the accusations against the student group linked to his party, asking journalists to provide evidence of the involvement of its members. According to Qader, outside groups attacked reporters and students.

Yesterday, 450 students and teachers met and agreed to stop the protests, during which several people were injured. The police fired rubber bullets and tear gas against demonstrators.

For Rema Gomes, a Catholic student, it is time to go home and allow the government to take action to make roads safe.

The young woman says she learnt not to do anything that might hurt others in missionary school.

For its part, the Bangladeshi cabinet yesterday gave final approval to a maximum five-year sentence for anyone found guilty of causing road accident deaths. This had mixed reactions among Bangladeshis. Some seem satisfied with it; others want harsher punishment.

In an attempt to prevent further demonstrations, the authorities also promised to introduce the death penalty for "deliberate" road deaths.
Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara on Monday announced amnesties for around 800 people, including former first lady Simone Gbagbo who is currently behind bars, in the name of national reconciliation.

Last week Ivory Coasts Supreme Court overturned an earlier acquittal granted to Gbagbo for crimes against humanity.

The wife of former president Laurent Gbagbo, in power from 2000 to 2010, will soon be freed, Ouattara said during a televised address to the West African nation on the eve of the countrys independence day.

Simone Gbagbo has been serving a 20-year sentence handed to her in 2015 for endangering state security.

Laurent Gbagbo has been in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague for seven years.

Since 2016, he has been tried for alleged crimes against humanity during post-election unrest in 2010.

Among the others granted amnesties by Ouattara on Monday were former defence minister Lida Kouassi  a key ally of Laurent Gbagbo  who was sentenced this year to 15 years for conspiracy, and former construction minister Assoa Adou, jailed in 2017 for four years.

On Monday I signed an amnesty order that will benefit about 800 citizens prosecuted or sentenced for offences related to the post-election crisis of 2010 or state security offences committed after May 21, 2011, (the date of Ouattaras inauguration), the president said in his address.

Around 500 of those named have already been released provisionally from detention, he added. They will have their criminal records erased.

The other 300 will be released soon, he added, without giving any dates.

The question of national reconciliation in Ivory Coast, or the lack of it, has been seen by observers as a black mark against Ouattara.

About 3,000 people died in the turmoil that swept Abidjan  once one of Africas most cosmopolitan cities  in the aftermath of the November 2010 presidential polls when Laurent Gbagbo refused to accept defeat to bitter rival Ouattara.
Ivory Coasts Iron Lady Simone Gbagbo  soon to be released from prison in an amnesty  basked in her role as the power behind the throne during her husbands regime, but to foes she was a pitiless killer.

The wife of former president Laurent Gbagbo, who lost power in 2010 after a turbulent decade in office, is one of some 800 people who are being freed by president Alassane Ouatarra.

Laurent Gbagbo has been in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague for seven years.

His wife is three years into a 20-year sentence for endangering state security for her role in political violence that claimed some 3,000 lives after a bitter 2010 presidential election.

The couple were arrested in April 2011 by forces loyal to Ouattara during a French-backed military operation, after five months of fighting.

She was accused of actively supporting Laurent Gbagbo in his bid to keep power after his electoral defeat.

Her 2015 conviction revolved around her alleged involvement in a 2011 shelling of a market in a district of the capital Abidjan that supported Ouattara and for being a member of a crisis cell that allegedly coordinated attacks by the armed forces and militias in support of her husband.

Fervently Christian but ruthless by reputation, Simone Gbagbo never sought to deny exercising political influence after her husband rose to power in 2000 elections in which former prime minister Ouattara was barred from standing on the grounds he was a foreigner.

All the ministers respect me, and they often consider me above them. Ive got what it takes to be a minister, she told the French newsweekly lExpress in 2001, justifying her stance after a life she said had been dedicated to activism.

I engaged in political struggle against the former regime alongside men. I spent six months in prison, I was beaten, molested, left for dead. After all those trials, its logical that people dont mess with me.

 Blood Lady 

Born in the predominantly Christian south in 1949 as one of 18 children of a policeman, she studied linguistics and history before becoming a trade union activist.

Her militancy led to a jail term in the 1970s for openly criticising then president Felix Houphouet-Boigny  Ivory Coasts first leader after independence from France in 1960  when he rejected opposition calls for multi-party elections.

She and Laurent Gbagbo married in 1989 after founding the opposition socialist Ivorian Popular Front (FPI), and she was later elected to parliament in the worlds leading cocoa producer.

Her husband sought to change relations with former colonial master Paris, arguing that previous regimes had been servile, and the first lady proved a fierce critic of neo-colonialism, once famously describing Frances former president Nicolas Sarkozy  a main mover in her husbands downfall  as the devil.

Supporters of Simone Gbagbos commitment to political causes hailed her as the Hillary Clinton of the tropics.

But for detractors, the Iron Lady became the Blood Lady, amid allegations by human rights activists that the regime used teams of killers to deal with opponents.

Those concerns were reinforced when she was implicated by a French judicial inquiry into the sinister disappearance of French-Canadian journalist Guy-Andre Kieffer in Ivory Coast in 2004.

Gbagbo frequently mingled politics with the evangelical faith she practised after miraculously surviving a car crash and starting prayer meetings at the presidential palace.
The first round of voting in Malis presidential election gave outgoing President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita a conclusive lead over his rival  but unresolved anger and finger-pointing over the results have highlighted some of the countrys divisions.

Eighteen of the 24 candidates in the election joined forces Monday to demand the resignation of the minister of territorial administration and decentralisation, Mohamed Ag Erlaf.

They accused him of being to blame for an electoral robbery and urged people in the capital Bamako to rally on Tuesday.

Keita won 41.42 percent of votes in the July 29 presidential poll in the sprawling west African nation, easily ahead of opposition leader Soumaila Cisse, in second place with 17.8 percent.

They will face each other in a runoff vote next Sunday.

Sources in Cisses entourage on Sunday said they had filed a case at the Constitutional Court over alleged ballot-box stuffing, breach of electoral law and irregularities.

Two other opposition candidates, businessman Aliou Boubacar Diallo and former prime minister Cheick Modibo Diarra, who came in third and fourth place, have also turned to the court.

In the north and centre of the country  shaken by jihadist violence and lawlessness  ethnic tension has been sharpened by the vote.

The northern town of Gao, along with Timbuktu and Kidal, were captured by the largely Tuareg Azawad liberation movement (MNLA) and jihadist rebels in an uprising in March 2012.

The Islamists took the ascendancy and started to impose strict sharia law in the territory known as Azawad, but French military ground and air forces intervened and routed the rebels in the first five months of 2013.

 Ballot-stuffing accusations 

But the insurgency remains undefeated, and lawlessness abounds.

Its in the areas where there is no security that you hear that IBK has stolen votes. In those places, the heads of the polling stations took ballot boxes and filled them for IBK, said Abdoulmajid Agagrossi, an unemployed electrician of 23, referring to Keita by his initials.

This is total fraud, businessman Mohammed Toure asserted in Gao while he drank tea with a group of friends.

In one constituency, they had 9,772 votes for IBK and just one for Cisse  but there were only 9,000 registered voters.

The institutions of state are largely absent in the region, and armed groups, mostly Tuaregs, who signed a 2015 peace agreement with the government, are taking part in security during the presidential election.

Some Gao residents charge that the presidential party cut a deal with the armed groups to rig the vote.

You hear that everywhere in town, said an official with the UN mission MINUSMA, asking not to be named and unable to confirm any challenge to the vote results.

Last March, authorities imposed a week-long curfew throughout Gao following deadly clashes between ethnic Arabs and the Songhai community.

Alassane Maiga, a 45-year-old teacher from Gao, said that ballot-stuffing in the nomad areas was chronic.

And he has no doubt about the culprits: what he calls the light-skinned ones  Tuareg and Arab peoples, traditionally roaming tribes of the Sahara, whom he also blames for violence, but cannot provide details.

More than 700 polling stations across the country were unable to open because of violent incidents.

The government released the results at national level, but has no intention at all of publishing them in detail, constituency by constituency, a source close to the ministry told AFP, ignoring calls by the opposition and international observers for transparency.

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DR Congo President Joseph Kabila scheduled talks on Tuesday with allies to discuss hand-picking a candidate to run in upcoming elections on the eve of a key campaign deadline, sources said.

Members of a pro-Kabila alliance known as the Common Front for Congo (FCC) have been called to an important meeting this evening at Kingakati, a minister told AFP, referring to the presidential residence on the outskirts of Kinshasa.

Another source, close to Kabila, said, Its not a secret any more  its about naming a candidate for our presidential platform.

Names in the rumour mill include former prime minister Augustin Matata Ponyo; Kabilas chief of staff, Nehemie Mwilanya Wilondja; and the president of the National Assembly, Aubin Minaku.

Candidates have until 1530 GMT Wednesday to file their bid for the December 23 poll  a twice-delayed ballot seen as crucial for the future of the notoriously unstable country.

Kabila, in power since 2001, should have stepped down at the end of 2016 when his constitutional two-term limit expired.

He has invoked a constitutional clause enabling him to stay on as caretaker.

But he has left everyone guessing whether he will seek to run again, perhaps by arguing that this is permissible because of a revision of the constitution in 2006.

The uncertainty has ratcheted up political tensions, leading to anti-Kabila protests that have been bloodily repressed.

 Volatile 

A country of some 80 million people, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has never known a peaceful transition of power since it gained independence in 1960.

Kabila, 47, took over from his father, Laurent-Desire Kabila, who was assassinated by a bodyguard.

His tenure over the vast mineral-rich country has been marked by a reputation for corruption, inequality and unrest. The watchdog Transparency International ranked it 156 out of 176 countries in its 2016 corruption index.

Many provinces are in the grip of armed conflict and millions have had to flee their homes, many flocking to Uganda, Tanzania, Angola and Zambia.

The United States is ready to impose further sanctions to dissuade Kabila from continuing his hold on power, the Financial Times reported Monday.

The US is trying to convince Kabila to go between now and August 8, an unnamed source told the newspaper. Theyre trying to squeeze his family and his finances.

 Candidates 

Candidates who have already filed their bid include Jean-Pierre Bemba, 55, a former warlord and Kabila rival, who returned to Kinshasa last week after being acquitted of war crimes convictions by the International Criminal Court in The Hague.

Felix Tshisekedi, 55, leader of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), would file his application Tuesday, his spokesman Peter Kazadi told AFP.

Another candidate, who declared his hand on Tuesday is Tryphon Kin-Kiey Mulumba  once a spokesman to former dictator Mobutu Sese Seko and twice a minister under Kabila.

Kin-Kiey  a vocal Kabila supporter  is running as an independent, local media said.

He told AFP he was running in the name of my party, called the Action Party.

The authorities last week barred Moise Katumbi, 53, a wealthy businessman and former governor of the province of Katanga, from returning home to file his bid.

Katumbi has been living in self-imposed exile in Belgium since May 2016 after falling out with Kabila.

The pro-Kabila FCC is an election platform combining two groups, the Presidential Majority and the Peoples Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD).

After Wednesdays deadline, the definitive list of candidates will be announced on September 19.
Georgia on Tuesday condemned Russias continued occupation of its territory, a decade after the two countries went to war over the Kremlin-backed separatist regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

This is a war against Georgia, an aggression, an occupation, and a blatant violation of international law, Georgian President Giorgi Margvelashvili told a round table meeting attended by Georgian government officials and visiting foreign ministers of Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraines vice premier.

The aggressors appetite has only increased after the invasion, he said.

Georgia and its Soviet-era master Russia have long been at loggerheads over Tbilisis bid to join the European Union and NATO with the spiralling confrontation culminating in a five-day war in 2008.

On August 8, 2008, the Russian army swept into Georgia  bombing targets and occupying large swathes of territory  after Tbilisi launched a large-scale military operation against South Ossetian separatist forces who had been shelling Georgian villages in the region.

Over just five days, Russia defeated Georgias small military and the hostilities ended with a ceasefire mediated by Frances then-president Nicolas Sarkozy, who at the time held the European Unions rotating presidency.

After the war, Moscow recognised South Ossetia and another separatist enclave, Abkhazia, as independent states where it then stationed permanent military bases.

Tbilisi and its Western partners condemned the move as an illegal occupation of Georgian soil and the first time a sovereign states borders were changed in Europe through military force since the end of World War Two.

 Failure to punish Russia 

Speaking to AFP last week, Margvelashvili said that back in 2008, the West believed Russias military campaign against Georgia was an isolated move which will not be repeated against other countries.

And then we witnessed what Russia did in Ukraine in 2014, he added, referring the Kremlins support for pro-Moscow rebels in Eastern Ukraine and Russias annexation of the Crimean peninsula.

In an interview to the Kommersant daily on Monday, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev  who was president in 2008  defended Moscows recognition of the separatist regions as the only possible step to maintain durable peace and stability in the South Caucasus.

 Smack in the jaw 

In an editorial published on Monday on the website of Russias Echo Moskvy radio station, Mikheil Saakashvili  Georgias president in 2004-2013  said Russia had been preparing to invade his country years before the war broke out.

He said Georgia had no chance of winning a war against its giant northern neighbour, but gave the aggressor a smack in the jaw when it offered resistance and won time until the international community woke up.

Russian President Vladimir Putin  a prime minister during the war  said in 2012 that he approved a plan of military action against Georgia as early is in 2006 and that Russia has trained South Ossetian militia.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Georgian foreign ministry denounced Russias continued military build-up in the separatist regions.

The Russian Federation has not implemented its international obligations despite constant calls from the international community and has further reinforced its illegal military presence on the ground, the ministry said in a statement.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the EUs foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said the Russian military presence in both Abkhazia and South Ossetia continues to violate international law.

She reiterated Europes firm support of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia which she hailed as a model of democratic stability in the region.

Joining the chorus of international condemnation, the German foreign ministry called Russias recognition of the breakaway Georgian areas Abkhazia and South Ossetia unacceptable.

The 2008 war claimed the lives of hundreds of soldiers and civilians from both sides. The UN said around 120,000 people were displaced during the war, though most returned to their homes afterwards.

Up to 18,500 ethnic Georgians were forcibly displaced from South Ossetia, according to prosecutors from the International Criminal Court which in 2016 opened an investigation into war crimes committed during the conflict.

Russia and separatist authorities in Abkhazia and South Ossetia have rejected repeated calls from the UN General Assembly for the safe and dignified return to their homes.
Ivory Coasts former first lady, Simone Gbagbo, who is serving a 20-year jail term, will be freed on Wednesday after President Alassan Ouattara granted her an amnesty, her lawyer said on Tuesday.

The wife of former president Laurent Gbagbo has spent seven years behind bars for her role in a wave of political violence that claimed several thousand lives in 2010-11.

On the eve of independence day, Ouattara had on Monday announced an amnesty for Simone Gbagbo and around 800 others in the name of national reconciliation.

Her attorney, Rodrigue Dadje, told AFP she would be released tomorrow, after the judicial formalities have been completed.

She was delighted to learn the news of her release, Dadje said.

Simone Gbagbo was convicted for endangering state security for her part in post-electoral violence and sentenced in 2015.

She had been implicated in the 2011 shelling of a market in an Abidjan district that supported Ouattara and for belonging to a crisis cell that allegedly coordinated attacks by the armed forces and militias in support of her husband.

Laurent Gbagbo has been in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague for seven years. He has been on trial since 2016 for alleged crimes against humanity.

In February 2012, the ICC also issued a warrant for Simone Gbagbos arrest.

In 2016, Ouattara said he would no longer send Ivorian nationals to the court, as the country now had a functioning justice system.

About 3,000 people died in the turmoil that erupted in Abidjan  once one of Africas most cosmopolitan cities  after presidential elections in November 2010 when Laurent Gbagbo refused to accept defeat to Ouattara, his bitter rival.

The conflict left a legacy of political friction that endures today. The lack of national reconciliation has been seen by many observers as the biggest mark against Ouattaras record.

Among others granted amnesties were former defence minister Lida Kouassi  a key Gbagbo ally  who was sentenced this year to 15 years for conspiracy, and former construction minister Assoa Adou, jailed in 2017 for four years.

Around 500 of those named have already been released provisionally from detention, the president said. They will have their criminal records erased.

The other 300 will be released soon, he added, without giving any dates.
DR Congo President Joseph Kabilas chosen candidate to run in upcoming presidential elections will be announced on Wednesday, his spokesman said, on the eve of a key campaign deadline.

Members of a pro-Kabila alliance known as the Common Front for Congo (FCC) were called to the presidential residence on the outskirts of Kinshasa on Tuesday evening for an important meeting, a minister told AFP.

The chosen candidate will be known early in the morning, Kabilas spokesman Lambert Mende told AFP after the talks.

During Tuesdays meeting at Kabilas family farm in Kingakati, outside the capital Kinshasa, the president addressed those present without discussing his own political future, participants said.

Kabila, in power since 2001, should have stepped down at the end of 2016 when his constitutional two-term limit expired, but has so far refused to say if will seek to run again.

Some of his opponents suspect that Kabila will still attempt to cling to power and seek a third term, despite the constitutional limit.

The uncertainty has ratcheted up political tensions, leading to anti-Kabila protests that have been bloodily repressed.

Names in the rumour mill include former prime minister Augustin Matata Ponyo; Kabilas chief of staff, Nehemie Mwilanya Wilondja; and the president of the National Assembly, Aubin Minaku.

Ahead of Tuesdays pro-Kabila alliance meeting, a source close to Kabila, said: Its not a secret any more  its about naming a candidate for our presidential platform.

Candidates have until 1530 GMT Wednesday to file their bid for the December 23 poll  a twice-delayed ballot seen as crucial for the future of the notoriously unstable country.

 Volatile 

A country of some 80 million people, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has never known a peaceful transition of power since it gained independence in 1960.

Kabila, 47, took over from his father, Laurent-Desire Kabila, who was assassinated by a bodyguard.

His tenure over the vast mineral-rich country has been marked by a reputation for corruption, inequality and unrest. The watchdog Transparency International ranked it 156 out of 176 countries in its 2016 corruption index.

Many provinces are in the grip of armed conflict and millions have had to flee their homes, many flocking to Uganda, Tanzania, Angola and Zambia.

The United States is ready to impose further sanctions to dissuade Kabila from continuing his hold on power, the Financial Times reported Monday.

The US is trying to convince Kabila to go between now and August 8, an unnamed source told the newspaper. Theyre trying to squeeze his family and his finances.

 Candidates 

Candidates who have already filed their bid include Jean-Pierre Bemba, 55, a former warlord and Kabila rival, who returned to Kinshasa last week after being acquitted of war crimes convictions by the International Criminal Court in The Hague.

Fellow heavyweight opposition candidate, Felix Tshisekedi, leader of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), filed his application on Tuesday.

Another candidate, who also declared his hand on Tuesday, is Tryphon Kin-Kiey Mulumba  once a spokesman to former dictator Mobutu Sese Seko and twice a minister under Kabila.

Kin-Kiey  a vocal Kabila supporter  is running as an independent, local media said.

He told AFP he was running in the name of my party, called the Action Party.

The authorities last week barred Moise Katumbi, 53, a wealthy businessman and former governor of the province of Katanga, from returning home to file his bid.

Katumbi has been living in self-imposed exile in Belgium since May 2016 after falling out with Kabila.

The pro-Kabila FCC is an election platform combining two groups, the Presidential Majority and the Peoples Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD).

After Wednesdays deadline, the definitive list of candidates will be announced on September 19.

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FCC  FOMENTO DE CONSTRUCCIONES Y CONTRATAS SA
Fast-tracking of exemption requests from punitive measures against Pyongyang. Seoul will be in the front row to help the neighbor. The decision arrives a few days after a controversial report which claims the socialist country has not halted its nuclear program.

New York (AsiaNews / Agencies) - The UN Security Council has adopted new guidelines to facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid to North Korea.

The UN body yesterday unaninously approved the project proposed by the United States. Last month, some international aid groups had complained about the bureaucratic difficulties caused by sanctions.

Under the new guidelines, the process will be speeded up to request the exemptions necessary to bring aid to North Korea. The project approved yesterday recommended governments and NGOs to send their requests including a description of the objects to be imported and the assurance that their use is limited to that intended in the application.

According to South Korean government sources, South Korea will be at the forefront in supporting the neighboring North Korean population. Last year Seoul allocated $ 8 million in aid, including food and vaccines to be sent through the World Food Program and UNICEF.

According to UN estimates, almost half of the North Korean population - about 10 million people - needs food aid. Furthermore, there is a serious lack of medical supplies in the country.

The decision of the UN body follows days of media controversy: according to a report to the Security Council, written by experts and published by some media, North Korea is still carrying out its own nuclear weapons program.
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Ken-Ton school threat found not to be credible The Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda School District reported to district families Monday about the existence on social media of a non-specific and non-credible school threat. The school districts Oct. 25 message...

International Institute, community partners awarded $250,000 for Buffalo Refugee Careers Pathway Project Rep. Brian Higgins has announced that $250,000 in federal grant funding has been awarded to the International Institute of Buffalo and community partners through the Office of Refugee Resettlement. The...

Town resident arraigned on felony drug charges Town of Tonawanda resident Adriane D. Roman, 37, has been arraigned on multiple felony drug charges after Erie County Sheriffs deputies raided his residence and allegedly found 1.5 kilos of...

Man arraigned for exchanging sexually explicit messages, images with minor Town of Tonawanda resident Daniel Syracuse, 38, has been arraigned in Amherst Town Court on a felony charge of disseminating indecent material to minors, in connection with sexually explicit text...
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When I first began writing about the doctor title, I led with my personal beliefs. But as my research expanded, I realized there were so many variables and so many experiences that have shaped other womens views on being called doctor.

Call me doctor, please

A few years ago, I was at a charity event for underprivileged kids in Detroit. One of the board members was a well-spoken nurse with a PhD. She introduced herself as doctor, and I admired that. She earned it. The title automatically told of her accomplishments in one simple word.

My boyfriend at the time was also a member of the board. As we were networking, I asked him to introduce me as doctor because I was too embarrassed to do it myself. Ive always appreciated it when my friends would introduce me as doctor in professional settings. It took the pressure off me. He told me that I was being arrogant, and continued to introduce me as Rozy the rest of the night. Was I being petty? Was I being overly sensitive? It was a disappointing night, and it shaped my feelings on being called doctor. I speak up for myself now. I earned it.

On a pedestal

On the other hand, an article titled, Im a physician. But please dont call me doctor, examined another perspective from a female surgeon. She states that using doctor is impersonal and creates a distance between her co-workers and, more importantly, her patients. This makes her feel isolated. She also strongly viewed using the title as authoritarian-like, and described doctor as someone on a pedestal and not using the term showed her humility, thus reinforcing the notion that doctor is an arrogant term and title.

Unnoticed by most, this also categorizes the term doctor as traditionally masculine because of its aggressive perception.

In marriage

One of my great guy friends from undergrad recently got married. He also completed his medical degree and is in a cardiology fellowship. His lovely wife is a smart and beautiful pharmacist. As the DJ introduced them as Dr. and Mrs., I almost leapt out of my chair to announce to everyone that, indeed, his wife was also a doctor. I called him after the wedding to ask his viewpoint on what happened with the introduction. He said that he did notice and that it was actually planned. What? His wife made the decision to be called Mrs. that day because to her it reflected the significance and celebration of marriage. It was much more about her personal life that day. I understood her viewpoint, but I also pointed out that a male doctor would never be referred to as Mr. at a wedding. We both agreed that would probably never happen, but I was happy to hear that the two of them were aware of the gender bias with the doctor title and had a conversation about it before the wedding. It was her choice.

The choice to be called doctor or not

A colleague told me a story of when she was introduced by her first name at a hospital meeting while all the male physicians in the room were referred to as doctor. I was surprised, but it turns out her story is common. Dr. Shannon Lorimer, a prominent orthopedic surgeon, shared a shocking photo of notes left for her physicians group in which all male colleagues were referred to as doctor, while the rep used her first name.

Last month a paper called, Speaker Introductions at Internal Medicine Grand Rounds: Forms of Address Reveal Gender Bias, validated these occurrences and the feelings of being gypped of the doctor title. It is the women who get overlooked. The authors analyzed introductions at grand round lectures and found that women referred to their male and female colleagues as doctor 96 percent of the time, whereas men referred to their male colleagues as doctor 76 percent of the time, and female colleagues as doctor only 49 percent of the time. This is a striking difference.

Failure to acknowledge a womans hard-earned professional title while men are awarded theirs, even when unintentional, has profound implications and reinforces the perception of women having lower status.

Overall, Im glad this has started an important conversation, and its been eye-opening to see other perspectives of female colleagues. Being called doctor or not doesnt really bother me much anymore, but only if its my choice.

Roozehra Khan is a critical care physician who blogs at The Female Doc. She can be reached on Twitter @RozyKhanDO.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
For only the third time in 47 years a Kilkenny lady has been named International Miss Macra!

Josephine O'Neill, a member of Callan Macra, did her club extremely proud by taking the title in Thurles on Sunday night.

The O'Neill family joined Callan Macra members in Thurles for the festival events, and the gala banquet on Sunday in the Anner Hotel.

Josephine had the crowd in stitches on Saturday night during her on-stage interviews at The Dome, Semple Stadium, with a story about being stuck in a lift and having to be rescued by firemen, while visiting her brother in Chicago!

Josephine, who is from Maddoxtown, Bennettsbridge, works as a secondary school teacher, teaching both Home Economics and Irish, in Cross and Passion College, Kilcullen, Co. Kildare. She is very involved in Macra at local and county level. She has been secretary (2016 - 2018), assistant secretary and vice president for the county and has organised many events with others like the hurling competition on the weekend of Mr. Personality, hosted in Kilkenny for Macra members from across Ireland.

Miss Macra 2018 Josephine O'Neill with her sisters Aveline and Christine and her brother Bill celebrate in Thurles, last Sunday night. PICTURE: PAT MOORE

She joined her 23 fellow contestants, from 20 counties, to compete for the honour of being crowned International Miss Macra.

Josephine's friends in Callan Macra send her congratulations, and thank everyone who travelled to Thurles to support her over the weekend!
Over one hundred people gathered in Crosspatrick and later in Kilkenny City on Saturday July 21 to remember Kieran DArcy, or Ciaran O Dorchai, who died at his home in Bonheiden, near Mechelen, in the Flemish region of Belgium in December 2017 at the age of eighty-five,

The simple nature of the commemoration and the attendance of so many family members made for a touching tribute to a man who had always remained humble about his talents and true to his roots, despite being an important figure in a number of spheres in several countries and indeed throughout the EU.

Ciaran O Dorchai was born on June 21st 1932 into a farming family in the area of North Kilkenny where DArcys had settled in the late 18th. and early 19th. century, and where his grandfather John DArcy had purchased a sixty-acre holding on his return from America in the late 1870s.

Ciaran was one of seven sons of James DArcy and his wife Julia, who came from a neighboring family of the same name. Of his six brothers, two (Tom and Frank) became veterinary surgeons, based in Naas and Dublin respectively; two (Joseph and Paddy) went into the retail and hospitality sectors (in Dublin and Rosslare respectively); and two (John and Seamus) remained in their native area, John as a farmer and Seamus as a popular publican in Johnstown.

Ciaran was educated at the local national school and at St. Kierans College, Kilkenny. He began his adult life as a graduate in Arts of the National University of Ireland at Maynooth in 1952 and, from 1956, a priest of the diocese of Ossory who was appointed shortly thereafter to the staff of St. Kierans College where he taught Classics and Irish, and also gained a facility in German.

He left the priesthood in 1964 and after a brief transition in London secured a position at Worcester College for the Blind in the English Midlands, teaching Classics at secondary school level. The challenges of the post attracted Ciaran, and for the next six years he was a respected and diligent member of the WCB staff, encouraging the talents of the many young people whose intelligence he treated as being on the same level as their sighted counterparts, and rejoicing in the success of those who made it in the sighted world, including the notable Guardian and BBC journalist Peter White, one of his star past pupils.

Ciaran also took the initiative in non-academic activities, leading groups of students in outsdoor pursuits and foreign trips. While in Switzerland on one such expedition he met a young Belgian woman named Magda Oversteyns who was hiking her way to Italy, and they struck up a relationship that within a year had resulted in marriage. As she had family ties in Belgium that could not be broken at that time, Ciaran made the decision to move to the Flemish area of Belgium and they were married in 1971. They lived first in the village of Kontich near Magdas native city of Antwerp. Their daughter Sile Padraigin was born in 1975, and in 1978 they moved to a new house they had commissioned in the village of Bonheiden near Mechelen (Malines). Sadly Magda succumbed to cancer two years later.

Ciaran began his Belgian residency by teaching at a Berlitz School but Irelands accession to the European Economic Community gave the ardent linguist an undreamt-of opportunity. He was recruited by the Commission in 1972 to deal with the very limited Irish language coverage requested by the Irish government, in place of the full official language coverage which the EEC had assumed Ireland would want. Ireland did not reverse that peculiar decision until 2005, when Irish finally became an official language of the Community following a petition by Irish citizens.

Up to then the Council of Ministers was the only European institution offering Irish translation services, mainly focused on the major official documents at treaty level. Even though the Court of Justice was prepared to hear a case in Irish if it ever arose, any documents it needed in Irish were translated by Council staff  Ciaran and the colleagues who later joined him.

Ciaran, unlike any other translator in any of the European institutions, was required to work into two languages  English and Irish. To understand what an exception that was, it is important to know that the professional rule is that translators (who translate written material) work into their mother tongue only, while interpreters (who translate orally) work both ways. So in addition to translating documents into English on a daily basis, Ciaran had to be available to translate treaties and conventions into Irish as well as the rules of procedure of the Court of Justice.

Later in 1973 he was joined by two colleagues (Mary Doyle and Kathleen Fingleton, a native of Ballingarry, Co. Tipperary) and their first major Irish translation project was the European Patent Convention. After a lot of work in Brussels, they spent a cold December in Luxembourg where the text was finalised in all the languages. The Irish team was helped by two members of Rannog an Aistriuchain, the Dails Irish translation service, Sean O Luing and Aighneachan O Laighin.

One of his colleagues strongest memories of that month was Ciaran and Aighneachans interest in ancient Greek which meant that they spent any spare time discussing the influence of Greek on Irish. The work on the patents convention was so painstaking that the team rarely left the Kirchberg (the hill on which the European institutions have their offices) before midnight and, because taxis refused to come up from Luxembourg city at that hour, there was a long walk across the icy bridge leading to the hotel they were staying in, with Ciaran smoking his pipe and keeping everyones spirits up.

In the 1980s, Ciaran took over responsibility for the English Translation Units terminology office and made sure that it also served the needs of Irish translators, who by then had grown in number to six and were required to produce, often at short notice, the Irish versions of the eighteen accession treaties agreed by the Council over the next three decades.

He remained in close contact with the Irish national terminology committee, An Coiste Tearmaiochta, eventually sending one of the team in Brussels to its monthly meetings in Dublin. Together with Jenny Bell (who was to succeed him), he ran a highly efficient and welcoming service which was used as much by translators from other language units as by English and Irish translators. Today the Interactive Terminology for Europe Project is the largest terminology database in the world, with eight million terms.

Meanwhile he had met Carine Bossaerts, an executive with a credit insurance company, and romance blossomed again: they were married on September 1990,

He retired from the Commissions service in 1997 and over the next two decades maintained his scholarly and social interests, travelling regularly to Ireland to visit family nd friends, including some from his days as a seminarian and a priest. He lived to see his economist daughter appointed as an Assistant Professor at the Universite Libre de Bruxelles in 2010 and saw her develop her particular interest in the role of women in Europe (her doctoral thesis was on the subject of Family, Work and Welfare States in Europe: Women Juggling with Multiple Roles). More recently she has become Scientific Director of Research and Evaluation at the Institute for Evaluation, Foresight and Statistics for the Wallon Region.

Ciaran also lived to see the birth of his grandchildren Simon and Lara, bringing his life to what might be regarded as full circle. Predeceased by five of his six brothers (he is survived by his brother Frank), he died peacefully at his Belgian village home on December 16th. 2017.

The Commemorative Mass at St. Michaels Church, Crosspatrick was celebrated by Dean Seamus McEvoy, P.P. Seir Kieran a contemporary as student and staff member at St. Kierans College and Maynooth, assisted by Monsignor Michael Ryan, P.P. Castlecomer and Fr. Dan Bollard, P.P. Thomastown, former student. The concelebrants included Fr. Pat Comerford, P.P. Freshford; Fr. Frank Maher P.E. Johnstown; Fr. Tom Coyne, former P.P. Galmoy; Fr. James Dollard, former P.P. Conahy and Monsignor James Ryan, former P.P. Tipperary. The staff of Worcester College for the Blind was represented by Mr. Colin Spencer and Mr. Pat Russell (Thurles) and Ms. Kathleen Fingleton represented his former colleagues at the Council of Ministers of the EU in Luxembourg and Brussels. Apologies were received from Kieran Dooley, a native of Freshford and a former pupil, who was a senior official of the Agriculture Directorate of the EU for almost forty years until his retirement in 2011.
Story

King County Metro was named the best large transit system in North America by the nations leading public transit advocacy organization, citing achievements in ridership, safety, access, customer service, financial management, commitment to equity, and sustainability.

The American Public Transportation Association judged King County Metros performance over the past three years, when the agency significantly increased ridership, launched the nations leading reduced-fare program for passengers who earn a lower income, improved passenger and operator safety, and accelerated the industrys transition to zero-emission bus fleets.

King County Executive Dow Constantine and Metro General Manager Rob Gannon will receive the Outstanding Public Transportation System of the Year award at the associations national conference in Nashville on Sept. 25. Executive Constantine will host a local celebration in early September to thank Metro employees, partners, and passengers.

To our talented Metro employees, our steadfast partners, and our loyal customers: Thank you for helping us bring this prestigious award to King County, said Executive Constantine. This is an honor we share with the community we serve and an outstanding example of the progress we are making to create the nations best-run government for the people of King County.

Being named best in North America is a truly humbling and gratifying moment, said King County Metro General Manager Rob Gannon. This award goes to each one of the 4,700 employees at King County Metro, in honor of the hard work and amazing customer service they provide every day. Thanks to them, we keep our region growing, economy thriving, and connect people with opportunity. Thanks to continued public support, ridership is stronger than ever and leading the nation.

The Washington, D.C.-based American Public Transportation Association, or APTA, represents more than 300 transit agencies in the United States and Canada.

It is my honor to congratulate King County Metro for winning the 2018 Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award, said APTA President & CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. King County Metro has contributed greatly to advancing public transportation in the Greater Seattle area. As a recognized leader in public transit excellence, the employees of King County Metro and the community it serves should be very proud.

The judges considered 12 qualitative measurements that covered the previous three years:

Safety: Enhanced safety measures

Enhanced safety measures Operations: Efficiencies in operating procedures

Efficiencies in operating procedures Maintenance: Basic reporting of maintenance measurements, new maintenance initiative, preventative programs, and improved performance on efficiencies of existing maintenance procedures

Basic reporting of maintenance measurements, new maintenance initiative, preventative programs, and improved performance on efficiencies of existing maintenance procedures Access: Travel training; customer information; demonstrated outreach to community beyond the American with Disabilities Act prescribed areas; and specific partnership with other municipalities and other community organizations

Travel training; customer information; demonstrated outreach to community beyond the American with Disabilities Act prescribed areas; and specific partnership with other municipalities and other community organizations Customer Service: Methods of providing additional value and service to riders, including the utilization of customer complaints

Methods of providing additional value and service to riders, including the utilization of customer complaints Financial Management: Effective financial controls and successful audits

Effective financial controls and successful audits Sustainability: Initiatives to increase sustainability of your organization and your community

Initiatives to increase sustainability of your organization and your community Workforce Development: Well-trained workforce to meet the needs of the future

Well-trained workforce to meet the needs of the future Attendance and Employee Costs: Containing costs and improving absentee rates

Containing costs and improving absentee rates Minority and Women Advancement: Encouraging and promoting diversity

Encouraging and promoting diversity Marketing: Developing effective marking tools to retain and attract riders

Developing effective marking tools to retain and attract riders Community Relations: Promoting positive community relations and contributing to a more livable communities

The association previously named King County Metro the best large transit agency in North America in 1983 and 1992.

The award comes weeks after authors of a comprehensive study on the health, economic, and environmental benefits of electric buses encouraged other metropolitan regions to follow King Countys lead to accelerate the transition to all-electric bus fleets nationwide.

Other metropolitan regions are studying King County Metros successful reduced-fare program for passengers who earn a lower income, ORCA LIFT, which Executive Constantine launched in 2015. King County Metro also was featured in a recent report, Inclusive Transit: Advancing Equity Through Improved Access and Opportunity, as a model for inclusive transit policies and employment practices.

King County Metro provided an all-time high 122 million trips in 2017 on more than 200 bus routes. It also provided nearly 1 million trips on its Access paratransit service for people who have limited mobility options.

The greater Seattle area continues to lead the nation in transit ridership growth. At the direction of Executive Constantine  who is also a member of the Sound Transit Board of Directors  planners at King County Metro and Sound Transit have better aligned services to meet the growing demand.

Relevant links

Quotes

To our talented Metro employees, our steadfast partners, and our loyal customers: Thank you for helping us bring this prestigious award to King County. This is an honor we share with the community we serve, and an outstanding example of the progress we are making to create the nations best-run government for the people of King County. Dow Constantine, King County Executive

Being named best in North America is a truly humbling and gratifying moment. This award goes to each one of the 4,700 employees at King County Metro, in honor of the hard work and amazing customer service they provide every day. Thanks to them, we keep our region growing, economy thriving, and connect people with opportunity. Thanks to continued public support, ridership is stronger than ever and leading the nation. Rob Gannon, General Manager of King County Metro

It is my honor to congratulate King County Metro for winning the 2018 Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award. King County Metro has contributed greatly to advancing public transportation in the Greater Seattle area. As a recognized leader in public transit excellence, the employees of King County Metro and the community it serves should be very proud. Paul Skoutelas, President and CEO of the American Public Transportation Association



For more information, contact:

Chad Lewis, Executive Office, 206-263-1250
(CNN Money)  Grab just got another $1 billion to expand its war chest in Asia.

The Singapore-based ride-hailing company, which recently bought out Uber's business in southeast Asia, said Thursday that it had raised fresh funding from big investors including Wall Street's Oppenheimer and China's Ping An.

Grab said it will use the cash infusion to help grow the number of services its app offers, particularly in Indonesia, a big regional market where it is battling local player GoJek.

The company announced last month it was opening its app to outside developers and adding grocery deliveries to its suite of services. The new app will include a news feed and feature content like restaurant reviews, short films and games.

Its goal is to get people to use Grab for as many things as possible.

Related: These ride-hailing start-ups want to run your life

Jakarta-based GoJek has been making a similar push in Indonesia. GoJek users can buy movie tickets, connect with pharmacies and order on-demand hair and makeup stylists.

The latest Grab fundraising round was billed as $2 billion, but includes a $1 billion injection from Toyota, which was announced in June.

Grab is now valued at $11 billion, a source with knowledge of the matter confirmed to CNNMoney.

Grab  which operates car, motorbike, and carpooling services  spans several countries such as Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Myanmar.

Related: Grab beat Uber in Southeast Asia. It's just getting started

In March, it bought Uber's business in the region in the latest international retreat for the US ride-hailing company, which sold its operations in China in 2016 and its Russia business in 2017.

Under the deal, Uber received a 27.5% stake in Grab  worth several billion dollars  in exchange for the US company's operations in eight southeast Asia countries.

But the deal has come under scrutiny from regulators in Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines, who are concerned the merger could reduce competition.

Rishi Iyengar and Sherisse Pham contributed to this report.

This was first published on CNN.com, "Asia's ride-hailing market gets another $1 billion investment"
Two days after tech giant Google owned up to the default inclusion of old Aadhaar helpline number in mobile phones, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on Sunday condemned the vested interests for misusing Google's 'inadvertent' act as an opportunity to spread rumours against Aadhaar. The UIDAI emphasised that a number stored in the contact list cannot steal data from a mobile phone.

An earthquake measuring 7.0 magnitude on the Richter scale rocked Indonesia on Sunday.

Chandrayaan-2, India's second lunar mission has been postponed for the second time in a year. The launch which was earlier scheduled for April was later postponed to October and now even further.

Some big developments that are expected to happen today are:

Kerala: CPI (M) worker stabbed to death allegedly by BJP workers, according to an ANI report. Supreme Court to hear petitions challenging the validity of Article 35A which empowers J&K state's legislature to define 'permanent residents' of the state and provide special rights to them.

We at LatestLY will bring all the breaking and latest news and updates around the world. Stay with us for the latest updates of the day.
Srinagar, August 7: Four Indian Army personnel, including a major-rank officer, were martyred today in an encounter in Gurez sector of Jammu and Kashmir. Security forces also gunned down four terrorists in the gunfight. The encounter took place at Govind Nallah in the Gurez sector of Bandipore district after the Indian Army noticed a suspicious movement in Gurez area close to Line of Control (LoC) during the night.

The army personnel who lost their lives have been identified as :

Major Kaustubh Prakash Kumar Rane Rifleman Mandeep Singh Rawat Rifleman Hameer Singh Gunner Vikram Jeet Singh.

As per initial reports, eight terrorists were trying to infiltrate into the Indian territory under the cover fire provided by the Pakistani Army, out of which, four were killed and rest returned to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. On August 4, five terrorists were killed in Shopian district in a joint operation was carried out by the Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The forces carried out the operation after receiving information about the presence of terrorists in the area.

Meanwhile, on August 3, the security forces gunned down two terrorists at Drusu village in Sopore district. The Indian army jawan Sawar Vijay Kumar also martyred in the encounter. In the last seven days, 13 terrorists were neutralised by the security forces in the Kashmir Valley. In 2018, around 120 terrorists have been killed by the security forces in the Kashmir Valley, while more than 50 security personnel lost their lives.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 07, 2018 05:10 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Muzaffarnagar, Aug 7: An Army jawan's wife was found hanging from the ceiling of their home under mysterious circumstances in Shamli district of Uttar Pradesh, a police official said today.

According to SHO Krishan Kumar, Shivani's family has accused her husband and her in-laws of killing her yesterday and then hanging her body to show it as a case of suicide. The incident happened in Manat village under Thana Bhawan police station area. The woman's father has alleged in his complaint that his daughter was being harassed by her in-laws for dowry, Kumar said.

He has alleged that her daughter was living with them for six months following disputes with her in-laws and had returned to her husband's house a few days ago. The SHO said the Army jawan is posted in Ladakh. The body has been sent for post-mortem. No arrest has been made so far.
Aug 7, 2018, 2:07am ET

Porsche Taycan getting 600 hp, 310-mile range

Porsche has already built several hundred prototypes.

Porsche is putting the final touches on its new Taycan, a battery-electric sedan aimed squarely at the Tesla Model S. Born as the Mission E, the Taycan is months away from making its official debut. The German company has confirmed the model's basic specifications.

The Taycan's two electric motors will draw electricity from a lithium-ion battery pack mounted under the passenger compartment to deliver 600 horsepower in its most basic configuration. To put that figure into perspective, that's on par with the current-generation BMW M5 and 80 horses less than the range-topping Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid.

Porsche quotes a zero to 60 time of 3.5 seconds. The Taycan will offer up to 310 miles of range in a mixed European cycle; time will tell what that figure will translate to in real-world conditions. 800-volt charging offered for the first time on a production model will top up the battery in record time.

The aforementioned specs apply to the basic Taycan that will be available at launch. Porsche has a history of building off-shoots of its cars -- there are nine variants of the 911, ranging from the Carrera to the GT2 RS -- so it's not too far-fetched to speculate the Taycan will receive a similar treatment. We can imagine a rear-wheel drive model with a single motor or an even more powerful variant. Officials aren't ready to talk about what the future holds, though.

Hundreds of Taycan prototypes are currently criss-crossing the globe. Every part of the car is new, including the powertrain and the platform, so it's important for the brand to gather as much data as possible before releasing the car. We expect to see the Taycan make its official debut either later this year or early next year and go on sale as a 2020 model. Pricing will start in the vicinity of $80,000.
Aug 7, 2018, 11:58am ET

Volkswagen 'carefully' considering Tanoak pickup for US

VW\'s US boss cautions that the US pickup segment is very \'patriotic\' and dominated by Detroit automakers.

Volkswagen is still cautiously considering a production Atlas Tanoak pickup for the US market.

Presented in concept form earlier this year in New York, the Tanoak is an Atlas crossover chopped to fit a pickup bed instead of a third seating row. The resulting truck is slightly larger than the Honda Ridgeline.

VW's proposed specs for the Tanoak are nearly a perfect match for the Ridgeline, hinting at a serious production intention.

Speaking to Autocar, VW's US chief, Hinrich Woebcken, voiced enthusiasm for the Tanoak in US showrooms but admitted the pickup would face stiff competition from established American rivals.

"It fits the brand well, because we want to get more American in the US, but it's something we have to look at carefully," he said. "It's a very patriotic segment, which American manufacturers dominate."
Former Allentown Mayor Ed Pawlowski, who was convicted of rigging city contracts to help his campaign benefactors, is reaching out to the public for help paying bills related to his legal defense.

His wife, Lisa Pawlowski, set up a site on gofundme.com to ask for help paying $8,000 hotel bills for her husband's attorneys. The family put up the bill so criminal defense attorney John J. "Jack" McMahon Jr. could stay in Allentown during the six-week trial, according to the site.

Thank you for your friendship and support over these past years. Ed and I could not have made it this far without your... Posted by Ed Pawlowski on Tuesday, August 7, 2018

The family can't pay the $8,000 credit card bill to cover the cost, the site says. It also asks for help paying a "second" attorney $43,000, and further says the family may need funds for legal bills to address "complications" with the Federal Election Commission.

When asked for comment via email, Lisa Pawlowski said the gofundme.com site speaks for itself.

"Thank you for your interest. All that I want to say publicly is in the Go

Fund Me post. So, I won't be giving any further comment," she said.

McMahon didn't immediately return messages. Federal prosecutors who handled the case had no comment.

"Since Ed has lost his job we have been struggling to 'make ends meet'," the site says.

Pawlowski was convicted on March 1 of 47 federal crimes including conspiracy to commit fraud, making false statements to the FBI and multiple counts of bribery, attempted extortion, mail fraud and wire fraud.

He was found not guilty of seven crimes: attempted extortion, three counts of bribery and three counts of mail fraud.

"We maintain innocence and will fight this battle to the end," the site says. "Many of you have asked how you could be of help. We have finally organized our needs, and the way you could help."

The mayor resigned on March 8. He is scheduled to be sentenced Sept. 5 in Allentown.

The family solicited donations to the site on Facebook and Twitter. As of 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 7, the family had raised more than $500 on its way to a goal of $7,000. The site went up on Aug. 4.

"Thank you for considering this help. We are devastated by our situation right now and go on day by day by God's grace and strength, and your prayers and well-wishes," the site says.

Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook.
August is here, and with it comes back-to-school season.

To mark the end of a summer reading series and the beginning of the upcoming school year, six area nonprofits have partnered for a back-to-school-giveaway later this month.

The Aug. 16 event will take place at the National Museum of Industrial History, 602 E. Second St., from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. It's hosted by the museum, the Bethlehem Area Public Library, Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites, ArtsQuest, PBS39 and Cops 'n' Kids Lehigh Valley.

Each organization will give out freebies and both PBS39 and Cops 'n' Kids Lehigh Valley will give away books. ArtsQuest teaching artist Melissa Perhamus will be hosting a hands-on-activity and arts demonstration for kids, and PBS39's mascot, Telebear, will be in attendance.

The event caps off a collaborative summer reading program in which kids visited each nonprofit to hear children's stories. The Aug. 16 event will also incorporate a storytelling component.

"This celebration of literature and art is the perfect way for kids to dive back into the school year," said Kara Cenni, president and CEO of the industrial history museum, in a Tuesday news release. "It's a free, fun event and the participation of so many fantastic Bethlehem non-profits ensures it will be a great day for the whole family."

Jake Holland may be reached at jholland@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @jakewholland. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
Lehigh County's district attorney will announce a decision Tuesday in the investigation of a South Whitehall Township police officer who fatally shot a man near Dorney Park.

The moves comes as the Allentown branch of the NAACP submitted a letter of demands, including that District Attorney Jim Martin step aside in the investigation and the officer involved be immediately fired.

Joseph "Joey" Santos, 44, of Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, was shot and killed July 28 by a township officer on the side of Hamilton Boulevard (Route 222) near the Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom amusement park.

The officer has not been identified by authorities, and was placed on paid administrative leave while Pennsylvania State Police and the Lehigh County District Attorney's Office investigated the incident.

Martin will hold a news conference 2 p.m. Tuesday "to announce his decision with regard to the officer-involved shooting," according to a morning news release from his office.

Martin previously said Santos was behaving bizarrely that evening, clinging to moving vehicles and ripping the window out of one.

Santos, his fiancee and her son were visiting Dorney Park that day. Juliana Valenzuela said she noticed Santos was missing from the park, and assumed he left to get cigarettes.

Witness video posted to Facebook last week shows someone who appears to be Santos riding on the outside of a car and a police SUV before the shooting.

There were several calls to Lehigh County 911 about a man interfering with traffic and reportedly jumping on cars. Police arrived about 5:45 p.m., and another witness recorded a brief moment of interaction with the police and the shooting.

In that video posted on Facebook, Santos is seen approaching the police car, then backing away.

The officer yells repeatedly for Santos to get on the ground but Santos is seen walking casually up to the officer, who has parked by the side of the road. The officer, who continues to yell at Santos to get on the ground, fires five shots and Santos drops forward to the ground.

Soon after he's shot, a second officer begins CPR. An ambulance arrives a few minutes later and he is rushed to Lehigh Valley Hospital in Salisbury Township.

Santos died from multiple gunshot wounds and his death was ruled a homicide by the Lehigh County Coroner's Office.

Protestors held a vigil four days after the shooting, saying Santos' actions didn't warrant a "death sentence."

The NAACP branch submitted a letter Tuesday to the prosecutor with a list of demands. The first is that the officer be immediately terminated, after shooting five times although the "officer's life was not in jeopardy and where lethal force was not called for or appropriate," the letter says.

"The Branch declares that it cannot tolerate this individual as a police officer and respectfully demands that his badge and gun be immediately removed from him and that he be separated from the police force for the wrongful and unlawful killing of Joseph Santos, an unarmed civilian," the letter states. "The NAACP Allentown Branch will not rest until this individual is no longer a menace patrolling the streets with the power of a badge and gun and is determined to continue all lawful protests and legal actions until the demands herein are met. The Branch has determined that members of the public are not safe while this individual continues to carry a badge and gun."

The letter demands integration of the South Whitehall police department, which the NAACP says does not have black officers.

Finally, the branch asks the Pennsylvania State Attorney General's Office and the U.S. Department of Justice take over the shooting investigation.

The letter quotes Martin saying the officer "encountered the gentleman and unfortunately had to use his weapon and shot him."

"The District Attorney's statement raises an appearance of bias in favor of the

police officer," since the investigation into the incident was not complete, according to the letter.

A man shot by police outside Dorney Park didnt deserve to die, protestors say. They are holding a vigil in South Whitehall to remember Joseph Santos who was shot five times after allegedly disrupting traffic. Posted by lehighvalleylive.com on Wednesday, August 1, 2018

Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
Lanes that were shut overnight for the investigation of a fatal crash off Interstate 80 East in Knowlton Township reopened just after 5 a.m. Tuesday, according to the New Jersey Department of Transportation and New Jersey State Police.

Tractor-trailer driver John Orgill, 61, of Blakely, Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

The single-vehicle wreck was reported about 8 p.m., state police told NJ Advance Media. A rig left the road near mile marker 6.9 and crashed into trees, police said.

It was not immediately clear why the crash happened or if there were a medical incident beforehand. The Morris County medical examiner will determine the cause and manner of the driver's death.

The left and center lanes were open as of 5:06 a.m., the DOT said.

Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
Five suspected illegal immigrants who fled from the back of a truck last week in Laois are still on the run.

The refrigerated meat truck had travelled from Spain, through France to Rosslare Port and then to Laois, gardai confirmed to the Leinster Express.

The incident happened on Thursday evening, August 2 and the search is still on to find the five men who are suspected to be in the country illegally.

Portlaoise gardai and the Air Support Unit helicopter are continuing the search.

On opening the trailer of the truck, five men reportedly jumped out and ran into the countryside in the rural Straboe / The Rock area between Portlaoise, Mountmellick and Emo.

It is understood the five men were seen around the Garryhinch area early on Friday morning, but no further sightings have been reported.

A garda helicopter assisted with the search on Thursday evening and Friday. On Friday, August 3, gardai said that the search had stopped however it was resumed again by Monday morning.

On Monday morning, August 6, Gardai confirmed that the five men were not yet found and the search was ongoing.

The search to find them is partly over concerns about their welfare as they travelled in a refrigerated meat truck for a significant amount of time.

A garda spokesperson outlined the latest details of the ongoing incident on Monday, August 6.

Gardai in Portlaoise are investigating a report that a number of individuals were discovered in the rear of a lorry and fled when the door of the trailer was opened.

This occurred at The Rock outside Mountmellick. They were discovered in the trailer at approximately 6.50pm on August 2.

The Air support Unit and local Gardai are continuing to search the area, a garda spokesperson said.

A train line runs through the rural part of the county near where the men fled on foot.

Gardai issued a community alert to members of the Rock Text Alert at 7.25pm on Thursday evening, after the incident began.

Reports of five males acting suspicious in The Straboe Area The Rock area in the last 30 minutes. Last seen on foot. Report sighting, the message read.

A Laois Garda spokesperson told the Leinster Express on Thursday that the men are no threat to anyone.

No description of any of the men has been given.

Anyone with information relating to the whereabouts of these men is asked to contact Portlaoise Garda Station at 057 8674100.

NEWS: Missing Kildare teenager found 'safe and well'.

PICTURES: Pope and Popemobile centre stage at Durrow Scarecrow Festival.
A Laois couples paradise holiday turned into a nightmare this week when a powerful earthquake shook the Indonesian tourist island they were visiting.

Rory Heffernan and Sasha Scully, both from Portlaoise, were on an Indonesian island, near Bali, when a 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck, killing almost 100 people across different islands and tearing buildings to the ground throughout Sunday and Monday.

Sky News has reported that the death toll is expected to increase. Two of the people who died were in neighbouring Bali at the time of the quake, which has also left more than 200 people with serious injuries and flattened thousands of homes and buildings.

Rory took to Facebook to let family and friends know that both he and Sasha are okay.

From paradise to a nightmare in seconds, caught in the middle of an earthquake and sleeping on a hill to avoid tsunami but we're both safe and off Gili T and back on Bali, he posted to friends on Facebook with pictures below.

Gili Trawangan is one of the islands hit by the earthquake.

Rory, who is a member of An Garda Siochana and Sasha, received messages of well wishes from friends on Facebook.

Further Facebook posts by Moe Kadri, a person who Rory and Sasha befriended in the emergency, have outlined the ordeal, parts of which the Laois couple have gone through in the last two days before eventually boarding a rescue boat.

Moe Kadri outlined their experience.

The past 48 hours have been the most difficult of our lives. It was just after dinner, we were walking home and I noticed the locals start to panic. Within seconds, the grounds started to shake, the houses started to break apart and the screaming started. It lasted for roughly a minute but it felt like forever.

Once the shaking stopped, we cautiously began to walk around, people were everywhere, either severely injured or dead. We didnt know what to do, but we knew we couldnt be around structures so we resorted to the beach, which was flooded with locals.

The earthquake set off the tsunami alarm which added to the panic. Many said to go to the mountain and many advised that the water hadnt receded and staying on the beach would be fine.

After hours of debate and continuous aftershocks, we agreed that the water levels were fine and decided to set up camp on the beach with hundreds of other tourists. It was 9 pm, we had no power, nothing to keep us warm, and no idea what to do.

After talking to a family from Denmark, we agreed that the risk of going to get our luggage was not worth it. We picked up a bunch of tanning beds and lined them up. Thankfully towels were distributed to help keep us warm. It was 9:30 pm. We had to do our best to keep warm and survive the aftershocks until 6:30 am.

News outlets report that by 8 am there were 131 aftershocks recorded, some we felt, some not, but the worry of another earthquake happening had us on edge all night. Once the sun rose we decided to make the trek through the village and get our stuff.

After getting our luggage we went back to the harbour to try and get ready for the so called rescue boats. The locals teamed up with the tourists to set up clinics and get help to anyone that needed it.

A cemetery was set up for those who lost their lives, all close to the harbour so the deceased and injured could take priority on getting off the island. We thought they were coming, they werent. There were thousands of people already lined up on the sand but no boats in sight, the locals were transporting their families off the island but that was about it.

We decided it would be best to walk down the beach and get organized. This is where we met Rory and Sasha. We exchanged our experiences with the earthquake (the went up the mountain) and started to talk about a game plan.

We ended up setting up shop midway down the beach as it wasnt as crowded and could still be seen by boats. We watched as small boats flooded in, loaded up the locals, and left. It was 8 am. The next few hours consisted of gathering water and battling the heat.

I believe it was around 1 pm that boats started to show up, the first was for rick holders only (hard to believe that theyd enforce a rule like this in such a time, but they did) and the second was free. The free boats continued throughout the day but we had no chance of getting on, as the locals would jump on from every angle, as seen in the videos.

This continued for hours. There was no army, no navy, no presence of the Indonesian government, just videos taken by the police to make it look like they were helping. This continued for the rest of the day.

By about 3 pm ferries started to show up, but couldnt get close enough to us because of the low tide. We were told by our friends that the Irish government has informed them that transfer boats were on the way to load us from the beach to the ferries.

We waited. By 5 pm we started to contemplate making it back up the mountain and surviving another night on the island, as sun set was soon and all the tourists were still stranded.

By about 6:30 the transfer boat arrived. It was mayhem, we were pushed and shoved but we remained strong, left our luggage and climbed on to the transfer boat. It was the biggest feeling of relief.

All day, Rory, Sasha, Sab and myself talked about sticking together, so it was unsettling not seeing them on the boat, but thankfully, towards the end, they walked on and our worries vanished. We were transferred on to the ferry and immediately settled in. Having spent the past 48 hours on sand without food or sleep, a padded chair and noodles felt like royal treatment. We later found out that the island was hit with another earthquake after we left. This experience will sit with me forever..

Pictures by Moe Kadri on Facebook.
Six people presented as homeless to Laois County council reception in just one morning last week, with 1,300 still on the waiting list.

The number of homeless presentations came on the same day that Laois County Council announced it is ahead of target with 122 new council homes due for delivery by the end of 2018.

The local authority expects to far exceed the 2018 target set for Laois by Rebuilding Ireland of 76 units.

Portlaoise Cllr Willie Aird received the housing update from a motion he had tabled, but he pointed out the continuing housing shortage, as well as the number of people waiting in the reception.

We used to be able to say to people on the list, youll get a house in 12 or 18 months, now people are seven years waiting on the list. I think there were six homeless in the foyer today, they were only gone at 2pm, Cllr Aird said.

I acknowledge the good work thats been done, but we have to keep it at the forefront, he said.

The Chief Executive Officer John Mulholland said they will exceed their target of 627 new homes by 2021.

627 is a minimum target. We are encouraged to exceed it and we will, he said.

He said that of some 1,300 names on the Laois council waiting list, half are single or one parent families, for which compact accommodation in towns was needed.

Lack of land owned by the council is an issue.

We advertised three times for land availability but that hasnt yielded any results, we will continue to look, the CEO said.

Mr Rainey said 2019 will be a busy year for construction.

We have to get through the planning stages this year but 2019 should have multiple sites in construction, for delivery in 2020, he said.

Over 500 people are receiving a Housing Assistance Payment to pay for rent in private accommodation in Laois. An extra 13 per week have been added recently Mr Rainey said, while agreeing with Cllr John Joe Fennelly's suggestion that rental properties are drying up.

There is a shortage of private rent accommodation in Portlaoise. We wont be able to solve it just by construction and acquisition. We need the private sector to provide good quality rented accommodation, he said.

Cllr Mary Sweeney had sympathy for the housing staff as well as the homeless.

I do expect they are working very hard but the population explosion is unprecedented. It is a mammoth task. Of course I feel incredible sympathy for homeless. But young people dont want to stay at home, they want their own house, which is slightly unrealistic, she said.

Cllr Tom Mulhall said that a lot of people are in limbo, that do not earn enough to qualify for a mortgage, yet earn too much to qualify for renting a council house.

CPOs approved to force sale of three derelict Laois houses

So far in Laois this year, 72 homes have been delivered to new council tenants. Another 52 are at contract stage and will be delivered by the end of 2018.

Homes added to the Laois stock this year include 33 built in Portlaoise, 17 bought, 22 delivered by Approved Housing Bodies, and a further 57 from housing bodies at nomination/final contract stage.

The council plans to find extra homes by buying them only when this does not compete with public bids, by direct building, buying turnkey private developments off the plans, and from Approved Housing Bodies.

Read the latest Laois property news HERE.
The Kildare primary school that was saved from the brink of closure by the local community is holding a family open day on Saturday August 18 at 3pm.

"Following the meeting held at Brannoxtown National School on Wednesday 1 August 2018, the school was divested to KWETB and is now a Community National School which has a child centred approach to learning and is multi-denominational to cater for all families in the community," said a spokesperson.

"It will be a publicly accountable school, striving to provide the highest quality education for each child."

SEE ALSO: Decision on 343 home Kildare housing estate, park and new road plans due in November

She said the Community National School concept was born in 2008 as part of the States response to the increasing diversity in Irish society.

"This school will be publicly managed, meaning that there will be no need for private funding as the State will provide all funds. Local ETBs (formally VECs) are the patrons of Community National Schools and they have also 270 Second Level Schools and a wide range of Adult Further Education Centres and services nationally," she added.

"We hope you can make it to the Open Day on the 18 August 2018, we have loads organised and you will enjoy some local hospitality and see the great facilities that Brannoxtown Community National School has to offer."

Brannoxtown Community National School will open on September 1 and is now open for enrolment.

For further information please contact Bernie on 087 1124310 and on brannoxtowncns@kwetb.ie
Michael Mullan was told at 24 years of age that he had six months to live.

Two and a half years later, and Michael, known locally as Mick, is still fighting to tell his tale.

Mick has already kicked cancer twice, so the third diagnosis was devastating news for the Eadestown native.

I just remember the doctor just said to me Im afraid its some bad news, and you kind of have this feeling in your stomach like its back again. Its a shock to the system, Mick told the Leader.

You think youre in good health and then all of a sudden your whole world is turned upside down because cancers back again.

Mick was first diagnosed with neuroblastoma as a 16 month old baby. He had a tumour on his adrenal gland, and his parents, Patrick and Patricia, were told he had a one in four chance of survival. It was touch and go for a while, I was quite sick. They put me on chemotherapy but chemotherapy back then was quite invasive, it kind of destroyed my whole body. I think I spent nearly a year in hospital.

Mick went through chemo, surgery and a bone marrow transplant. He remained cancer free until he was 22-years-old, studying in Trinity College Dublin.

I was cancer free until final year in college. When cancer was in the background throughout my life, I kind of thought I had dealt with it, I presumed I was a childhood survivor of it. So it kind of came as a shock in final year.

This time doctors told Mick he had cancer in his kidney cells.

While cancer obviously is a very bad diagnosis to get, we were told at the time that this wasnt that bad. We were told all that was needed was surgery.

I took a couple of months off college just to recuperate from the surgery, because any type of cancer it gets at your immune system, but thankfully the college allowed me to sit my exams at the same time as the repeat students, so I had a couple of months to study and I managed to come out with a first class honours degree.

Mick said the cancer gave him a whole new perspective on life.

When youre given a cancer diagnosis like this, its a big deal but it makes you reflect on your whole life. It made me realise I only have one chance at life, I might as well give it as good a shot as I can.

Mick and his girlfriend of over nine years, Mel Murphy from Ballymore, made the big move over to the US when Mick was awarded a scholarship to Harvard Law school.

The surgeon in Tallaght said the cancer is gone, theres no real sign of it coming back so we were sure we were going over to Boston in good health. Thats why it came as such a shock when I did get the third diagnosis.

The worst thing about this time was the doctor in DanaFarber Cancer Institute said any treatment that you go on is a leap of faith.

We were told I had six months to live, at 24 years of age it was such a shock and so devastating to hear those words, and I said Im going to give it my best shot, theres no point in taking it lying down and admitting to yourself it is going to beat me.

Mel is an extremely positive, strong person. She talked me through it and any time I had a bad day she was there to tell me about the silver linings. We were lucky to be in Boston, and have such good care.

Theres no treatment options for me in Ireland so in a way I was blessed.

Mel and Mick had planned to stay in the US for a year and go travelling but all these plans were put on hold.

My parents were good enough to come live with us for nine months, and give up their jobs to come over when it was really bad.

Weve got such great support from our family back in Ireland, theyre always at the end of the phone.

Numerous fundraisers have been organised for Mick at home to help raise money for his medical expenses in the US.

His treatment is currently ongoing.

At the minute, my last scan said that the cancers not growing, its being held at bay which is great news.

Even some of the tumours have shrunk, but the cancer is still there, its still active, its by no means bet at this stage.

The doctor said its going to be a long-term battle, its going to take a couple of years, itll take different treatments before its finished.

Mick has been hospitalised around 30 times in the space of two and a half years, and someone that keeps him going is girlfriend Mel.

The support I had from Mel is definitely one of the driving forces, honestly without her I dont know what I would do.

Particularly on the tough days. There is down days when you really feel why me, why did this happen to me, Ive dealt with it twice before and to have somebody there that can talk it through with you, and understand where youre coming from.

Micks advice to someone recently given a cancer diagnosis is that positivity is key.

From my point of view the main thing is to stay positive. Even when youre given bad news, take it with a pinch of salt.

Cancer diagnosis are never 100% accurate, you can be told youve six months to live and two and a half years on, Im still here.

If you would like to donate to the Michael Mullan Cancer Fund, click here for the GoFundMe page.

SEE ALSO: Kildare man lands prestigious Harvard Masters

SEE ALSO: Fundraising drive set up for Kildare man (26) battling cancer for third time
Ahead of the historic visit by Pope Francis to Ireland West Airport on Sunday, August 26, Gardai have issued a traffic management plan to advise passengers of important information for those travelling to and from the airport on the day.

Gardai are advising passengers to allow extra time for their journey, as there will be road diversions and closures in place on the N17 and roads are expected to be busy.

ROAD CLOSURES

Those travelling to and from the airport on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th August are advised that from 12 midnight on Saturday 25th August until approximately 3pm on Sunday 26th August the N17 from Charlestown to Claremorris will be closed. Patrons travelling to Ireland West Airport, Knock are advised of the following

FROM CLAREMORRIS: Motorists intending to travel North to the Airport on the N17 are advised to divert in Claremorris onto the N60 to Castlebar.



FROM CASTLEBAR: In Castlebar, turn right onto the R373 to Moneen. Turn right onto the N5. Just after Swinford on the N5,, turn left at Cloonaghboy. Continue for 6.6km and turn right onto the Old Airport Road. Continue on for 6km. Turn left (Signpost Airport R376 and continue for 1.7km until you reach a roundabout. Turn right at the roundabout into Ireland West Airport



FROM BALLAGHADEREEN: Motorists intending to travel to the airport from Ballaghadereen should travel on N5 and turn right onto the L1331 at Carracastle. Proceed to Charlestown and continue straight onto Chapel Street for 1km. Turn left onto the Old Airport Road. Continue on for 6km. Turn left (Signpost Airport R376 and continue for 1.7km until you reach a roundabout. Turn right at the roundabout into Ireland West Airport



FROM SLIGO: Proceed on the N17 to Charlestown and take a right onto Chapel Street. Drive for 1km. Turn left onto the Old Airport Road. Continue on for 6km. Turn left (Signpost Airport R376 and continue for 1.7km until you reach a roundabout. Turn right at the roundabout into Ireland West Airport



CLOSURE OF ROAD INTO THE AIRPORT

All access to the Airport from the junction of the Shammer/Bushfield Rd and R376 will be closed between the following times on Sunday the 26th of August to facilitate the arrival and departure of Pope Francis.

The road into the airport will be closed between 8.45am and 9.45am and again from 10.40am to 11.30am and passengers travelling during these timeframes are advised to arrive earlier than normal to avoid delays and potential disruption to their travel. It is expected that there will be a significant increase in traffic volume on Sunday 26th August and passenger are advised to please plan more time for travelling to the airport, for parking and check in procedures at the airport. We advise that passengers arrive at the airport even earlier than two hours before your flight. It is important that persons travelling to the airport follow diversion signs and disregard Sat-Nav instructions as this may lead drivers into further road closures.

The Leitrim Observer will continue to update its website and social media channels with further information as it is received.

Remember: You won't get near the Pope in Knock without a ticket
A JUDGE has described as absolutely breathtaking an incident during which a motorist was attacked by a gang of youths after he confronted them at a pedestrian crossing.

Judge Mary Larkin made her comments as she convicted a 16-year-old boy of charges relating to the incident which happened at Corbally Road, Limerick on July 24, 2016.

The Childrens Court was told a number of youths including the defendant, who is from St Mary's Park and who cant be named because of his age, had congregated near Athlunkard Bridge and were hitting cars as they passed.

The behaviour of the youths, who were all intoxicated, was captured on dashcam footage from the injured partys car which was played in court.

In the footage the then 14-year-old defendant and others can be seen hitting and kicking cars as they slowed down on the approach to the pedestrian crossing.

The injured party told the court when his Audi estate car was hit, he stopped to remonstrate with the youths.

The 37-year-old, who is originally from Poland, described how he was grabbed and attacked as he tried to get out of the car.

They started punching me straight away from all sides, he said.

Judge Mary Larkin was told the injured party was struck across the head with a wrench which was taken off him by one of the youths. The man accepted he had removed the wrench from the car as he got out.

While much of the altercation was not captured on the dashcam footage, at one point the injured man can be seen shirtless and covered in blood as he passes in front of his car.

Shouting and roaring can be heard throughout the footage which was around seven minutes long.

Solicitor John Herbert submitted the injured party made the wrong choice and had made the situation worse when he stopped and got out of his car.

He should have left, and not stoked the situation, he said questioning why the injured party was not prosecuted for his role in the incident.

This was not a situation of life and limb being in danger, he said adding that his client had also sustained injuries during the altercation.

Having considered the submissions, Judge Larkin said she was absolutely satisfied as to the defendants guilt.

Its extraordinary, absolutely breathtaking, there is no other way to describe it, she said.

The matter was adjourned to next month to facilitate the preparation of a pre-sanctioned probation report and a formal victim impact statement
THREE West Limerick musicians and their Offaly singing friend have been quick out of the traps, recording an Up Limerick song just hours after Galway confirmed their place in the All-Ireland final by beating Clare.

The four, brother and sister John and Jacki OConnor and their cousin James OConnor, all from Kilcolman, and Offaly man Tadhg Maher, watched the Galway Clare semi-final in Milltown Malbay and then headed straight into the Malbay Studios to record it.

Connors goes to Croker is, says All-Ireland winning concertina player, Jacki, a Limerick take on Joxer goes to Stuttgart.

It was Johns idea to write a song, explained Jacki, who is now married and exiled over the border to Tipperary.

She and John put it together in about two days, before last weekend and then contacted and booked studio time.

But then they had to wait for the final whistle on Sunday, watching the march in their green jerseys among a sea of saffron and blue. They just had time to slip in the lines about Galway and make a few more small amendments heading into the studio where Jacki played concertina, John played accordeon, James played bodhran and Tadhg did vocals. Martin OMalley provided guitar accompaniment. Then it was up on YouTube and out to the listening world.

It was a case of get in there quick, Jacki laughed before adding: It was just for the fun of it and for the excitement of the match.

It is going well, Jacki continued. Within a day, Connors goes to Croker had clocked up 1,500 views and rising.

Hopefully, it will create an atmosphere for the match, added Jacki, who is still hoping against hope that an All Ireland ticket will come her way.

Lots of players and local places are name-checked in the song, the punters who give Limerick no chance are lambasted and John Kiely is lionised for his masterplan.

Hear it for yourself and smile on https://youtu.be/QAvoMyEa8g0
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 7)  Miss International 2016 Kylie Verzosa will work with the World Health Organization (WHO) for a special project, as she continues to push her mental health advocacy.

In an Instagram post, the Filipina beauty queen shared a picture of herself standing outside the WHO office in Manila with the caption, "Working on a special project today, together with the World Health Organization on mental health."

She did not release more details on the new project. Verzosa was an ambassador for the organization's mental health campaign, "Depression: Let's talk" in 2017.

Verzosa had earlier revealed that she struggled with depression, but had overcome the medical illness.

She is also working with the Department of Health to help search for its new HIV/AIDS ambassador.

Her Instagram post captioned, "Lending my voice to the Department of Health today as they search for their next HIV/AIDS ambassador. Glad to be able to extend a hand to a cause I believe would benefit the Filipino people and the state of their mental health."

CNN Philippines intern Margaux Morio contributed to this report.
A firefighter douses flames while battling the Ranch Fire near Clearlake Oaks, California, on Aug. 4, 2018. The Ranch Fire is part of the Mendocino Complex, which is made up of two blazes: the River Fire and the Ranch Fire.

California is battling its largest wildfire ever recorded, along with 15 other major ones across the state.

The Mendocino Complex Fire is actually two separate fires, both of which began burning in late July: the Ranch Fire and the River Fire. They haven't merged yet, but they are close enough to each other that officials from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection are counting them as one huge wildfire. [In Photos: The Deadly Carr Fire Blazes Across Northern California]

As of the morning of Aug. 7, the Mendocino Complex Fire has burned 283,800 acres (115,000 hectares) of land in northern California around Clear Lake and is only 30 percent contained. Fueled by high temperatures, low humidity and wind, the fire has destroyed nearly 170 homes and other structures, according to The Washington Post.

Although fires typically calm down at night because temperatures decrease and humidity increases, the Mendocino Complex Fire has continued to grow by thousands of acres regardless of the time of day, according to the Los Angeles Times and the Post.

The Mendocino Complex Fire bumped down the last record holder  the Thomas Fire, which burned 281,893 acres (114,078 hectares) of southern California just eight months ago  to become the largest California wildfire to date. In fact, four of California's five largest wildfires have occurred since 2012, according to the LA Times.

Meanwhile, the ongoing Carr Fire has killed seven people and burned 164,413 acres (66,535 hectares) in Shasta and Trinity counties in northern California as of Monday (Aug. 6) and is only 47 percent contained.

More than 14,000 firefighters are working to control the flames across the state, according to the San Jose Mercury News. But it doesn't stop with California. This year, extreme wildfires have ravaged other countries across the world, from Greece to Sweden, and scientists are blaming climate change, which exacerbates such extreme weather events that can fuel the fires, according to a previous Live Science report.

Originally published on Live Science.

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Isla-Rose Heasman was born with a tooth already poking out of her lower jaw.

A newborn in England surprised her parents  and her doctors  when they saw that the infant was born with a tiny tooth, according to news reports.

The tooth was wobbly, so when little Isla-Rose Heasman was just 12 days old, her mother took her to a dentist, who put numbing cream on the baby's gum and promptly pulled the tooth out, the BBC reported.

While Isla-Rose's case is rare, the condition, known as a natal tooth, isn't unheard of, said Dr. Homa Amini, a professor of clinical pediatric dentistry at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, who wasn't involved with Isla-Rose's case. [Chew on This: 8 Foods for Healthy Teeth]

A natal tooth is simply a baby tooth that erupts "very early," Amini told Live Science. But the phenomenon is a bit of a mystery to doctors. "It's really not known why it erupts that early," Amini noted.

Natal teeth happen in only about 1 in 2,500 births, said Amini, who is also a pediatric dentist at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. In about 15 percent of cases, the baby's parents, siblings or close relatives also had a natal tooth, indicating that genetics plays a role, according to a 2012 review on natal teeth in the Indian Journal of Dentistry.

Isla-Rose Heasman had her natal tooth pulled out when she was just 12 days old. (Image credit: Jasmin Heasman/SWNS)

Most babies get their primary teeth, often the lower front teeth, beginning at 6 months of age, an event that "brings immense joy to the parents," the review's authors said. Natal teeth, however, aren't always seen so favorably. These teeth usually have little to no roots, so they're often wobbly and pose a risk to the child, who can mistakenly inhale or swallow the teeth. These teeth can also make breastfeeding difficult and can cut the baby's tongue.

In addition, these teeth are usually not pearly white. "The enamel in natal and neonatal teeth is normal for the age of the child," the review said. "But when the tooth erupts prematurely, the uncalcified enamel matrix wears off because mineralization is not complete. The tooth turns yellow-brown, and the enamel continuously breaks down."

The pulled tooth didn't have any roots. (Image credit: Jasmin Heasman/SWNS)

So, doctors usually recommend that the tooth be pulled, just as it was in Isla-Rose's case. When this happens, the child won't grow another tooth in that spot until an adult tooth erupts, usually at age 6 or 7, Amini said.

But even though the child will miss this tooth for a few years, "it's not a problem. They just don't have a tooth down there," Amini told Live Science. "Nothing has been reported as causing long-term problems."

If natal and neonatal teeth are secure enough to stay (and if they're not causing any problems with nursing), they usually remain about 0.07 inches to 0.2 inches (2 to 5 millimeters) shorter than other baby teeth, according to the review.

Historically, natal teeth were seen either as lucky or ill-fated. The Roman historian Titus Livius (born 59 B.C) viewed natal teeth as a "prediction of disastrous events," while Pliny the Elder (born A.D. 23) thought "a splendid future awaited male infants with natal teeth, whereas the same phenomenon was a bad omen for girls," according to the review.

In the past, people in England thought that infants with natal teeth were destined to be famous soldiers, and France and Italy also considered the teeth a mark of good fortune. But in China, Poland, India and Africa, newborns with teeth were usually considered "monsters and bearers of misfortune," the review reported.

These days, whenever a baby's tooth comes in, it's important to take the child to the dentist. That way, parents can learn the best way to care for their baby's little chompers, Amini said.

Original article on Live Science.
This Mournable Body

By Tsitsi Dangarembga

Graywolf. 284 pp. Paperback, $16

---

We first meet Tambudzai Sigauke, a Zimbabwean woman not young but not yet middle-aged, in a hostel in Harare. She is in a predicament: Despite her impressive education, she is unemployed.

Escaping the hostel, Tambu moves in with an eccentric Christian widow whose niece, Christine, is an ex-combatant in the war for liberation that still hangs over people's minds. "You know," Christine observes of Zimbabwe's Independence Day, "it is better to call it April 18. What do we really know about independence?"

Author Tsitsi Dangarembga, who lives in Zimbabwe, writes this often grim story with a great deal of wit. Tambu was also the protagonist of her debut novel, "Nervous Conditions" (1988), which won the Commonwealth Writers Prize. Now, in "This Mournable Body," Dangarembga gives us something rare: a sparkling antiheroine we find ourselves rooting for.

At the widow's, Tambu listlessly looks for jobs and obsesses about her major regret: events at an advertising agency that she "wilfully quit." The white men there took her best copy and put their names on it. Living off money saved from that job, she's determined to discover her destiny, preferably something upwardly mobile.

Eventually, she finds a job teaching biology, even though she has no experience. After that, she goes to stay with Nyasha, her cousin who always "wins and gets the best of everything," and is now married with children.

Despite her independence, Tambu is uninterested in the feminist consciousness-raising group Nyasha organizes. "You cannot think of anyone who is interested in women's issues, apart from the woman who has issues," Tambu thinks. (The book is seamlessly written in the second person). Coming on the heels of several scenes of shocking degradation and violence against women, this statement is remarkable. Tambu is strangely apolitical; she simply wants to succeed for herself at nearly all costs.

She's given a chance later in the novel, and her hard work is well rewarded. But as the story marches to a close with Tambu heading back to her old village, it's unclear what might happen when her ambition and her family collide with the new demands of capitalism. Tambu can be seen as a symbol as well as a character: Her striving to become prosperous amid dysfunction echoes modern Zimbabwe's ongoing struggle to outgrow stifling corruption.

---

McClear is a New York journalist and author.
There are days when the news reads like Mad Libs. Today is one of those days: HGTV outbid Lance Bass for the "Brady Bunch" house.

The Los Angeles property, whose exterior appeared in the show, returned to the market last month after almost 50 years.

"I am excited to share that HGTV is the winning bidder and will restore the 'Brady Bunch' home to its 1970s glory as only HGTV can," Discovery chief executive David Zaslav announced in Tuesday's second-quarter earnings call, according to Deadline. "More detail to come over the next few months but we'll bring all the resources to bear to tell safe, fun stories about this beloved piece of American TV history."

A tragic real estate tale precedes the cable network's happy ending.

Bass tweeted on Friday that his offer on the Studio City property had been accepted the night before, using three exclamation points to express how excited!!! he was. Maureen McCormick (of Marcia, Marcia, Marcia Brady fame) congratulated the former 'N Sync star on obtaining her pretend childhood home and wrote that she hoped any future problems would "always be solved in a half hour." Another reply asked whether Bass planned to remodel the interior to match the show's, to which he responded, "That's the plan!"

And in a tweet that seemed totally normal at the time, renovating Property Brother Jonathan Scott wrote that he was "a little bummed" that Bass outbid him, as he "really wanted that house." He then offered his design services to the future #IconicDreamHome owner and tagged HGTV.

Flash-forward to Sunday, when Bass wrote on Instagram that he was "feeling heartbroken." He posted a photo of himself posing in front of the home with two others, with the words "Here's a story . . . of a shady Brady" typed in bold print.

The story, according to Bass: An agent "representing the estate" told him that his bid - which was "WAY over" the asking price of $1.885 million - had won, and he celebrated with friends, family and fans. The next day, that same agent informed him that "another Corporate Buyer (Hollywood studio)" was prepared to buy the house at any cost.

"How is this fair or legal??" Bass asked. "How can I compete with a billion dollar corporate entity? I truly believe I was used to drive up the price of the home knowing very well that this corporation intended on making their offer and it's not a good feeling. I feel used but most importantly I'm hurt and saddened by this highly questionable outcome."

Tragic, we say!

For what it is worth, an agent who holds the property listing told the Los Angeles Times on Sunday that the sale was not a done deal at the time of Bass' celebration and that, out of eight offers, "an ultimate prevailing bid was selected." That bid came from HGTV, of course, though no one knew at the time.

Will the Property Brothers be the ones to remodel the property, referred to in its Zillow listing as the second "most photographed home in the United States after the White House"? Was Scott's tweet a total coincidence? Will the future owners appreciate the Los Angeles River-bordering house's "unique street-to-river orientation" as much as Bass would have?

Perhaps! After news of HGTV's successful bid spread Tuesday morning, Bass tweeted, "I'd be pretty upset if it were anyone else, but how can you be mad at HGTV?? My television is stuck on that channel." The network respond with just as much love: "Aww, thanks @LanceBass. Consider yourself officially part of the HGTV bunch! Yours truly, HGTV (aka The Lance Bass Fan Club)."

We also know that Zaslav is a proper "Brady Bunch" fan. Deadline reported that later in the call, he jokingly threatened to send Discovery CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels to "Greg's room in the attic" if Wiedenfels didn't deliver on financial projections.

"That was not a fun place to be," Zaslav continued. "It didn't have a door. There were beads, if you remember."
Ole, San Antonio, the Pearls summertime festival, turned the near-downtown complex this season into a Spanish-themed wonderland.

Since its start on June 15, Pearl restaurants and venues have hosted a series of flamenco dances, cooking classes and tapas tastings to honor the citys 300-year history and Spanish heritage. The party is not over yet, but it is winding down with a series of events before ending on Sept. 16.

The festivals three pillars  food, music and dance, and art and architecture  will carry through its last month.

On Wednesday, the festival will continue its master cooking courses at Hotel Emma with a class led by Austin-based chef Pablo Gomez on conservas, or tinned seafood.

Two other Ole-themed master classes will be hosted at Hotel Emma before the festivals end, with one course on cutting and tasting ham on Aug. 22, and another on Spanish cheese on Sept. 6. Each master class costs $25.

The festival also will host its final Intercambio Dinner event, during which Pearl restaurants host chefs from Spain to create menus that combine distinct techniques and cultures. On Aug. 29, chef Jeff Balfour of Southerleigh and Madrid-based chef Jorge Fernandez will serve a co-created dinner.

Oles three-month-long tribute to Spanish performance will finish with its final Tablao, a Spanish tradition of dinner and dancing. As he did for the tablao events in June and July, San Antonio chef Johnny Hernandez will give a paella demonstration at Pearl Stable and serve guests a menu of tapas, salads, Spanish wines and cocktails on Sept.14. The event also includes a concert by Luis Gallo, a flamenco and jazz guitarist from Spain. The ticket for this event costs $150.

Gallo will make several appearances during the festivals last days. He will give a free concert on Sept. 3 in Pearl Park and again on Sept. 6 when he joins guitar students from UTSA for the Pearls monthly First Thursday Market event.

More Spanish music will be featured at the Canciones: Sounds of Spain and South Texas concert Aug. 31 in Pearl Park. Spanish artists will perform alongside San Antonio guitarist Joe Reyes.

Music will also be the star of the show during the festivals grand finale, Mariachi Lab, on Sept. 16 at Pearl Park, a showcase of local mariachi talent. Headliners Luis Gallo and Vanessa Del Fierro from Las Coronelas, an all-female mariachi group, will bring the summerlong Spanish festival to a sunny end.

For more information, visit atpearl.com/ole
The judge presiding over the case of the Laredo Border Patrol agent indicted on two counts of capital murder has issued a gag order at the defense's request, precluding all parties involved from publicly discussing the case.

Ronald Anthony Burgos-Aviles, 29, appeared before 49th District Court Judge Joe Lopez on Monday for an arraignment. He pleaded not guilty to both capital murder charges.

Burgos-Aviles, who hails from Puerto Rico, had a supervisory role in the Laredo Sector Border Patrol before his arrest on April 9.

READ ALSO: District attorney seeking death penalty against Laredo BP agent

A high profile case that made international news due to its unusual nature, Burgos-Aviles is accused killing his alleged 27-year-old lover and the couple's 1-year-old child.

The indictment alleges that Burgos-Aviles repeatedly stabbed Grizelda Hernandez, slashed Dominic Alexander Hernandez's throat and stabbed him in the chest.

Attorneys J. Eduardo Pena and Silverio Martinez, both of whom have experience trying capital murder cases, are representing Burgos-Aviles. On July 25, Pena filed a motion to enjoin attorneys, their staffs, law enforcement officers and witnesses involved in the case from discussing it with the press.

The Webb County District Attorney's Office did not oppose the motion. Lopez granted it Monday morning.

In his order, Lopez writes that the court has a duty to preserve Burgos-Aviles' right to a fair trial by and impartial jury. If possible, the court must ensure that potential jurors are not prejudiced by pretrial publicity, the document states.

READ ALSO: Laredo Border Patrol releases statement following DA's announcement to seek death penalty

"This court takes judicial notice of the unusually emotional nature of the issues involved in this case," the order states.

All hearings will remain open to the public. However, prosecutors, defense attorneys, police, witnesses and other officers of the court with ties to the investigation are barred from discussing, summarizing or commenting on the case.

Pena told the court that the international attention the case had received could influence potential jurors. He cited empirical studies showing that jurors hearing death penalty cases that have received extensive pretrial publicity showed bias toward the defendant, increasing the likelihood of a conviction.

He pointed to the multiple prominent media outlets covering his client's case, such as Newsweek, the Washington Post, the Associated Press, Fox News and the New York Post.

"The various and numerous news articles and stories disseminated by the news media have already generated a tremendous amount of public anger, hate and prejudice toward (Burgos-Aviles)," Pena's motion states.

READ ALSO: Dozens gather at vigil to honor slain mother, child

At a bond hearing in April, Martinez had filed a motion to make the hearing private and not allow any media in the courtroom making a similar argument about "poisoning" the jury pool. 406th District Court Judge Oscar J. Hale Jr. denied the motion and, after a two-day hearing, denied the bond request. Burgos-Aviles remains behind bars at the Webb County Jail.

Since there is no official witness list from either side yet, the order extends to people who have given statements to law enforcement or prosecutors and those who have previously testified at hearings related to the case.

Jury selection is scheduled to begin June 10, 2019. District Attorney Isidro "Chilo" Alaniz had said the process could take up to two months since jurors are questioned on a one-on-one basis.

Joana Santillana may be reached at 956-728-2528 or jsantillana@lmtonline.com
A man was arrested Sunday for allegedly slashing a man's abdomen with a knife in east Laredo.

Ignacio Melendez, 26, was served with an arrest warrant that charged him with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

READ ALSO: LPD: Woman hits man in the head with glass bottle

On June 3, officers were dispatched to the 3700 block of Daniela Loop. A man stated to them that he had arrived at his girlfriend's house when Melendez approached him.

Police said they began arguing about driving too fast in the neighborhood. At some point, Melendez pulled out a knife and attacked the man, who sustained a laceration to the abdominal area, LPD said.

RELATED: 'How much is your life worth:' Laredo man charged with aggravated robbery with a knife

The man told police that he started punching Melendez in an attempt to disarm him. Melendez then left. Moments later, the man stated to LPD that he heard "a loud crash," according to police.

When he stepped out, he saw Melendez running away from the area, LPD said. Then, he noticed windows to his girlfriend's red 2014 Mercedes had been broken.
As Iran hurtled toward this week's resumption of U.S. sanctions, advice for beleaguered President Hassan Rouhani came from all quarters.

The Islamic Republic's top leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urged him last week to deal firmly with the corrupt. The Revolutionary Guards' commander said the president must show "decisiveness" in rescuing a slumping currency, and a sizable chunk of parliament moved to summon him to hear their harangues. Social media carried the venting of ordinary Iranians as well as mobile-phone footage of small, scattered protests.

The Aug. 7 tightening of U.S. penalties on a nation that hoped its worst struggles were in the past is piling pressure on Iran's ruling establishment, especially its public face -- the 69-year-old cleric Rouhani, who is a year into his second term.

Central to the leadership's troubles is the plummet in the value of the rial that threatens to turn a geopolitical confrontation into a full-blown domestic economic crisis once the vital oil industry comes under American sanctions in November.

"The situation is critical for everyone," said Saeed Shahavi, 47, who sells watches in Tehran. "When my lease expires in three months, I don't know if I can stay in Tehran with these astronomical prices. This is the first time in my life that I have checked price tags in the fruit market."

The blow to Rouhani isn't restricted to a reformist economic agenda supposed to deliver jobs and bigger salaries for a population where 60 percent are under 30.

The showdown with the U.S. comes as a delicate time for the regime that has ruled Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. With Khamenei approaching 80, Rouhani and his supporters are contesting the ideological future direction of Iranian politics with conservative opponents against a turbulent backdrop.

In December, anti-government protests linked to the rising cost of living spread through several cities, prompting a crackdown. While more recent demonstrations have been smaller, the growing anger is clear.

U.S. statements of support for protesters have been interpreted as a call for regime change. Yet Iran's ruling elite, top clerics, elected officials and military commanders are rallying round because they understand that "there is no real alternative" to Rouhani's brand of more moderate policies, said Aniseh Bassiri Tabrizi, a research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute in London.

A conservative populist candidate seen as favored by top leaders was roundly rejected in last year's elections. "There is a realization that for now this is the only way forward," she said.

In a message addressed to Trump on Monday night, Rouhani avoided confrontational rhetoric. He said his country welcomes negotiations to resolve the dispute only if the U.S. is "sincere." But he added that such talks would be meaningless while his nation is being hit with sanctions.

"Negotiations at the same time as sanctions, what meaning does that have?" Rouhani said. "It means someone is facing a person who's a rival and an enemy, if they use a knife and they stick the knife in their arm and then they say, 'Let's negotiate and let's talk.' The response to this is first all, they have to take the knife out and put the knife back in their pocket."

The U.S. and Iran have been moving toward a confrontation ever since President Donald Trump won election vowing to exit the Obama-era 2015 deal that capped Iran's nuclear program for sanctions relief. The pace accelerated as Trump delivered on his pledge in May, encouraged by Iran foes in Israel and the Gulf. The rial went into free-fall amid few signs that European powers will be able to provide guarantees for Iran that could save the pact.

The consequences of an Iranian crisis could be widely felt. Denied any hope of Western finance, Iran would likely accelerate its efforts to woo China. It has also vowed to retaliate against any disruption to its oil sales, perhaps by blocking the Strait of Hormuz -- a conduit for about 30 percent of the world's seaborne-traded crude. The Gulf nations with which Iran is already fighting proxy wars would likely retaliate.

This week's sanctions ban purchases of dollar banknotes by Iran, prevent the government from trading gold and other precious metals and block it from selling or acquiring various industrial metals. The measures also target the country's automobile sector.

Authorities have taken steps to support the rial -- including the scrapping of recent foreign-currency restrictions, appointing a new central bank chief, and cracking down on profiteering. But they have done little to ease concerns of a economic meltdown as deep-seated problems in banking and other areas are exacerbated by some curbs on crude exports.

Mayha Motiei, 24, who's studying clinical psychology in the capital, is among those remaining supportive of Iran's president.

"This is the same Rouhani of the past four to five years who achieved a nuclear deal," she said. "Trump's rise to power severely affected the situation. I also point the finger at hardliners at home" who have undermined the president's agenda, Motiei added.

It's unclear what the president can do to make a success of the remainder of his term. "Things have veered out of Rouhani's control because of circumstances," said Iman Baik, editor-in-chief of the Fanavaran-e-Etelaat technology daily. "The reins of the market have been practically in Trump's hands in recent months."
For many, the name Winnie the Pooh recalls childhood bedtime stories and Saturday morning cartoons. But in China, the famous honey-hunting bear has become a symbol of resistance.

Starting in 2013, memes comparing Winnie the Pooh's appearance to that of Chinese President Xi Jinping began to circulate on China's internet. The government responded by cracking down on images of the paunchy cartoon character. And now, according to the Hollywood Reporter, China is yet again censoring Pooh by declining to release Disney's "Christopher Robin," starring Ewan McGregor and a computer-generated Pooh, in Chinese movie theaters.

While the government gave no reason for the denial, a source told the magazine that past censorship of the bear had something to do with it.

The government has not completely banned photos of Pooh from the internet, but it has restricted them. In 2015, the Financial Times reported, a photo of Xi waving at supporters from a parade car next to an image of Pooh in a toy car was named the most censored image of the year by Global Risk Insights.

Even images that don't compare Pooh to Xi can face trouble. In 2017, according to the Financial Times, attempts to write "Winnie" in Chinese characters on Sina Weibo, China's equivalent of Twitter, were met with "content is illegal" messages.

In June, China also blocked access to HBO after its show "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver" criticized the country over its human rights record and poked fun at Xi's aversion to the Winnie the Pooh comparison.

"I'm not even sure it's that strong a resemblance, to be honest. But the fact he's annoyed about it means people will never stop bringing it up," Oliver said.

"Trust me, Xi, if your face even remotely resembles that of a beloved cartoon character, the smart move here is to lean in," he added.

China could also be passing on the film for less controversial reasons. As the Guardian reported, the country allows only 34 foreign films to play in Chinese cinemas each year.
EDWARDSVILLE  The city will be rolling out the red carpet sometime next year for Edwardsville Town Center and Whispering Heights, part of a longer-term plan to attract millennials to the city.

The mixed use developments are along the Route 157 corridor and both follow the model of providing upscale rental apartment units on top with small retail stores below.

A market analysis submitted to the city notes that Whispering Heights will have about 17,000 square feet of ground floor retail and with the idea of attracting higher quality restaurants, niche retailers, and personal service merchants catering to the higher income markets in the surrounding area and the large amount of passing traffic.

Renters there can easily access the Madison County Transit Districts Goshen bike trail, while Edwardsville Town Center renters can do the same at the MCTs Nature Trail. Both developments will have fitness centers and wellness centers, private parking and other amenities aimed at attracting to Edwardsville not only millennials but empty-nesters as well.

In marketing pitches to the city, developers have pointed out that in recent years Edwardsvilles growth has been south and east, and the westward push along the Illinois 157 corridor will provide a more balanced approach to commercial growth.

Such multi-use developments come at a time when Edwardsville is also rolling out the carpet for new restaurants such as EdgeWild and MOD Pizza.

The surge in upscale residential units and retail and commercial development  both in Edwardsville and other areas around Madison County - is neither a good thing nor a bad thing, says Dr. Timothy Sullivan, an instructor in SIUEs Department of Economics and Finance. And the question of whether it is or not is a one he gets asked a lot.

I always say, Look, theres one thing I know for sure: You show me a community where people dont want to put in new retail or new commercial, or whatever, and I can tell you thats not a community that is celebrating, Sullivan said recently. Those are communities that are saying to themselves Boy, what do we have to do to get some development here so we can get some jobs for our region?

Sullivan also compiles data and does some economic forecasting for the region on the side. For the past few years, he has come to Edwardsville and presented some of his findings at a breakfast meeting in February hosted by the city.

The busy development comes at a time when Edwardsvilles unemployment rate  the most recent state figures put it at 3 percent  is one of the lowest in the state.

Early in the planning process for Edwardsville Town Center and Whispering Heights, city officials were concerned that Edwardsville Town Center would simply be more student housing. But during a presentation to the City Council in May, Edwardsville Mayor Hal Patton emphasized that Whispering Heights is not aimed to undergraduate students but will really cater to somebody who might be a professional or an executive or an instructor out at SIUE.

Having more millennials living in Edwardsville  particularly those with in-demand skills - can add revenue to the citys coffers and help keep the cost of living and taxes as low as possible. I think what you always want is a broad tax base, for all kinds of reasons, Sullivan said. Having a diverse commercial base, from restaurants to small businesses and warehouses, will lessen the economic pain when the next inevitable downturn comes along.

Sullivan says he often drives past the warehouses in Edwardsville and Pontoon Beach. Residents who arent aware of their existence, he says, would be amazed to see the enormous buildings and vast parking lots and realize how many employees are needed to keep the warehouses running.

National corporations such Dial, Procter & Gamble, World Wide Technologies, and Amazon have large-scale warehouses and distribution centers that many residents in the area are barely aware of, he said. And Edwardsville, with its proximity to interstates, waterways and airports, is well-positioned to attract even more warehouses in the future.

And while many employees there are temporary workers and others pull in just over minimum wage, a surprising number provide skilled labor and hold relatively secure jobs. You have people who are trained on machinery. It may not be skilled labor you need a college degree for, but its still skilled labor. And youve got the back-office folks, everything from human resources to security to truck drivers who make a lot more than a buck over minimum, he said.

And just as diversity in commercial growth is key to providing a bulwark against recession, diversity is also important in the citys housing market.

Mixed-use developments such as Edwardsville Town Center and Whispering Heights can prosper in a town that has plenty of ranch-style homes and more traditional housing.

Even the trendy loft apartments on North Main Street can add to the citys ambiance.

I dont think theyre good or bad, Sullivan said. Theyre either right for what the potential residents want or theyre not; and they seem to be right, at least on some level. You probably dont want an entire city filled with lofts  there are people with families who want yards for their families to play in  but having that as a possibility for residents is a good thing.
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan on Tuesday escalated pressure on neighboring states to reduce the amount of trash and pollution flowing into the Chesapeake Bay, accusing other jurisdictions of not doing their fair share to clean up the nation's largest estuary.

He pressed Pennsylvania in particular to help clear the blanket of debris unleashed into the Chesapeake after last month's historic rain. Tree trunks, trash, tires and other flotsam have poured down the Susquehanna River through the Conowingo Dam's open floodgates and into the bay.

The detritus from upstream states has clogged navigation channels, closed beaches and cluttered shorelines, giving Hogan, R, ammunition to lean on other states in the watershed to accelerate broader cleanup efforts.

"When it comes to the Chesapeake Bay, Maryland honestly has more to lose than any other state," Hogan said Tuesday at an annual meeting of the Chesapeake Executive Council, which he chairs. "We cannot and we should not have to address this issue alone."

The executive council includes governors of Virginia, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and West Virginia, and Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser, D. It coordinates the 15-year, $19 billion Chesapeake Bay Program clean-up effort ordered by the Obama administration and overseen by the Environmental Protection Administration.

Leaders from other states pushed back against Hogan's assertion they should help clear the bay of debris.

New York's representative at the meeting, deputy commissioner James Tierney of the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, said water leaving the state's borders is cleaner than when it reaches the bay.

Pennsylvania's environmental secretary, Patrick McDonnell, declined to commit resources to cleaning up the debris, saying his government's been dealing with historic flooding that killed two people in the state.

"We were frankly, in flood response mode," McDonnell said.

Maryland officials have no estimate on how much new debris is in the bay, but Department of Natural Resources said crews pulled out 5,000 pounds worth just on Sunday.

Hogan's administration has asked Exelon, the operator of the hydroelectric Conowingo Dam, to help with clean-up efforts. In a Monday letter to the company, administration officials said the state "simply does not have the resources to clean up all the pollution that flowed through the bay last week."

Exelon officials offered staff time and $25,000 to help with the cleanup, a figure Hogan derided as a "drop in the bucket."

Will Baker, president of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, described the volume of clutter in the bay as "historic" and a symbol of how much of the bay's health depends on what flows off land in Pennsylvania.

"We're more concerned with what happens 365 days a year," Baker said. "The debris is just a stark visual reminder of the connection between Pennsylvania and Maryland."

In late July, the EPA released its midpoint assessment of the overall cleanup effort, halfway between when the program began in 2009 and when it is supposed to be completed in 2025. The EPA noted that most states involved in the cleanup have hit their targets for reducing sediment, which scours bay grasses, and phosphorus, which fuels algae blooms that ultimately deplete the bay of oxygen.

But the states have fallen behind on efforts to reduce nitrogen, another pollutant that reduces oxygen levels in the bay.

The federal government in June singled out Pennsylvania as "significantly off track" in meeting their goals.

"We're clearly behind," McConnell said during the meeting, which was held at a maritime museum in Baltimore. "We've taken that as an opportunity to double-down."

Overall, the federal cleanup efforts appear to be working. A report released in June found the bay's water quality was the healthiest it had been in 33 years.

Last week, Hogan used more forceful language about the debris situation, calling it "an economic and ecological crisis."

Hogan's public pressure on nearby states comes as he is seeking a second term and touting his environmental record. Hours before the meeting Tuesday, the governor released a digital campaign ad that features footage of him telling reporters last week that other states are "not doing enough" to clean up the bay.

Hogan's Democratic opponent, former NAACP chief Ben Jealous, said the governor's recent efforts obscure his past actions on the environment, which include vetoing a bill to boost how much electricity comes from renewable sources.
Man denies killing/torturing animals

A Caseville man pleaded not guilty in court on Monday to a charge of killing/torturing animals.

Joseph James Ales, 18, is scheduled to appear for a one-day jury trial on Nov. 6. His bond was continued.

Ales is being represented by Pigeon-based attorney Diana Kessler.

Man receives prison sentence for crimes

A current prisoner, formerly a Bad Axe man, was sentenced to more time in prison during court proceedings this week.

Aaron M. Herrington, 31, was sentenced to three and a half years  maximum 30 years  in prison for one count of breaking and entering with intent. In that file, he received credit for 178 days served. Herrington was also sentenced to one year and four months  maximum five years  for one count of felon in possession of a weapon. He was given credit for 145 days served.

Herrington was ordered to pay $260 to the Crime Victims Rights fund, $136 in State Minimum Costs and restitution in an amount to be determined.

The sentences will run concurrently and also concurrently with a prison sentence he's been serving.

Herrington was represented by Bad Axe-based attorney Elizabeth Weisenbach.

Woman pleads no contest to home invasion

A Pontiac woman pleaded no contest in court this week to a charge of third-degree home invasion.

Danielle L. Surrett, 44, is scheduled to appear in court next on Sept. 24 for sentencing. Her bond was continued.

Surrett is being represented by Bad Axe-based attorney Dallas Rooney.

Mute plea entered for alleged probation violator

A Harbor Beach man, this week, stood mute to a charge of probation violation.

Damon Rae Cash, 25, is scheduled to appear for a probation violation hearing on Aug. 27. His bond was modified to $10,000 personal recognizance and he will be subject to drug/alcohol tests at Chance to Change.

Cash is being represented by Sebewaing-based attorney Jessica Riskey.

Woman jailed for third OWI

A Pigeon woman was sentenced this week to 270 days in jail for one count of operating while intoxicated-third offense.

Megan Jean Henne-Lee, 28, will serve 60 days immediately and the remaining time will be held in abeyance of her 48-month probation period. She was ordered to pay $130 to the Crime Victims Rights fund, $68 in State Minimum Costs and $500 in fines.

She was granted work release and must seek outpatient substance abuse treatment. She was ordered to not consume alcohol and will be subject to alcohol testing. She must also complete 60 days of community service.

Henne-Lee was represented by Bad Axe-based attorney Kyle O'Mara.

Man stands mute to probation violation

A Pigeon man stood mute in court this week to previously violating conditions of his probation.

Derrick M. Wolschlager, 22, is scheduled to appear in court next for a probation violation hearing on Aug. 27.

Wolschlager is being represented by Bad Axe-based attorney Kyle O'Mara.

Woman sentenced for tampering with device

A Snover woman was sentenced to 330 days in jail this week for tampering with an electronic device.

Tricia A. Deo, 28, was given credit for 96 days served. She was ordered to pay $130 to the Crime Victims Rights fund, $68 in State Minimum Costs and $60 toward DNA testing.

Deo was represented by Bad Axe-based attorney Kyle O'Mara.
A powerful hurricane is spinning east of Hawaii this week, heading almost due west. Forecasters expect Hurricane Hector, which was nearly a Category 5 on Monday, to stay south of Hawaii, though they note that even slight changes in the forecast track could lead to a very different outcome for the island chain.

Hurricane Hector, which had winds up to 155 mph on Monday morning, looks like it will stay south of all the islands, but it's worth watching how this storm evolves over the next several days. Two factors should keep Hector's impact on Hawaii minimal - relatively cool ocean temperatures and high pressure building over the North Pacific.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott shared a pointed statement on Twitter that he attributed to former British prime minister Winston Churchill.

"The fascists of the future," the statement said, "will call themselves antifascists."

The governor's tweet was deleted Tuesday morning, hours after it was posted.

The Republican governor hailed the quote by noting "some insights are timeless."

Just one problem: Churchill, who died in 1965, does not seem to have said it.

David Freeman of the International Churchill Society told The Washington Post that although it would take exhaustive research to be absolutely certain, he could not find any documentation that Churchill ever uttered that string of words.

Instead, said Freeman, the society's director of publications, it is more likely a case of "aphoristic drift" (or, in this case, "Churchillian Drift"), in which an epigram is incorrectly attributed to a famous person such as Abraham Lincoln, Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King Jr. or Churchill to give it "a little more gravitas."

And in fact, it's not uncommon to see political, inspirational or educational quotes mistakenly assigned to Churchill. The website Quote Investigator has written posts about several quotes that have been misattributed to the famous British politician and writer - including the one about antifascists.

On Tuesday, Churchill historian Richard Langworth confirmed that the specific words cited in Abbott's tweet - "the fascists of the future will call themselves antifascists" - do not show up when digitally searching the millions of letters, speeches, articles and books written by Churchill, or in memoirs by his colleagues and authoritative books about him.

"He uses 'anti-fascist' frequently toward the end of World War II about the Yugoslav Anti-Fascist Coalition and the Italian Anti-Fascist Council. But in 97 occurrences of the word in his canon, there is nothing resembling this alleged prediction," Langworth, senior fellow for the Churchill Project at Hillsdale College, wrote in a statement to The Post. "I've seen it quoted before. It doesn't sound like him, really. Too pat. He thought deeply about and feared the future, but not in that way."

Abbott's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

But the governor's tweet was deleted Tuesday morning, hours after it was posted.

At a news conference in Waco, the governor responded to a question about the tweet, the Texas Tribune reported.

"Listen, what I tweeted was a sentiment that I have, and that is antifa is dangerous to society and antifa is the antithesis of safety and security, and they are antagonists to law enforcement as well as to other people," he said.

"It was irrelevant to me who may or may not have said that in the past," Abbott added, according to the Tribune. "I didn't want to be accused of plagiarism for saying it. If no one else said it, attribute the quote to me because it's what I believe in."

Antifa is a far-left political movement characterized as antifascists and sometimes anarchists. As The Post has reported, antifa existed before President Trump entered office but has become more prominent during his presidency, making its opposition known at political protests that have occasionally turned violent.

But historians say Churchill doesn't seem to have said those specific words about antifascists.

Of course, he never said a lot of other things that people often try to attribute to him.

The International Churchill Society, a historical organization dedicated to educating others about the liberal-turned-conservative who led Britain during World War II, has compiled a list of quotes that are commonly attributed to the former prime minister, even though he never actually said them:

- "If you're not a liberal when you're 25, you have no heart. If you're not a conservative by the time you're 35, you have no brain."

- "Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen."

- "If you're going through hell, keep going."

- "With integrity, nothing else counts. Without integrity, nothing else counts."

- "You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give."

- "The further backward you look, the further forward you can see." Or, "The farther backward you can look, the farther forward you can see."

- "Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." Or, "Success is going from failure to failure without losing your enthusiasm."

- "The government had to choose between war and shame. They chose shame. They will get war too."

- "All this contains much that is obviously true, and much that is relevant; unfortunately, what is obviously true is not relevant, and what is relevant is not obviously true."

Freeman, with the International Churchill Society, said Churchill himself would quote unknown epigrams, but would not attribute them.

Instead, he would couch the quotes by saying, "It has been said that . . ."
National security adviser John Bolton said Tuesday that North Korea has not made progress toward denuclearization in a dismal acknowledgment that comes nearly two months after President Donald Trump held a historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore.

"The United States has lived up to the Singapore declaration. It's just North Korea that has not taken the steps we feel are necessary to denuclearize," Bolton said in an interview on Fox News Channel on Tuesday morning.

He added the United States will continue to apply pressure until Pyongyang produces results.

"The idea that we're going to relax the sanctions just on North Korea's say-so, I think, is something that just isn't under consideration," Bolton said. "We're going to continue to apply maximum pressure to North Korea until they denuclearize, just as we are to Iran."

Unlike North Korea, Iran does not possess nuclear weapons, according to U.S. intelligence agencies and international monitors. Under a 2015 nuclear accord, Iran agreed to curtail elements of its nuclear energy program that raised proliferation concerns and pledged never to "seek, develop or acquire any nuclear weapons." Trump withdrew the United States from that agreement in May.

The Trump administration has consistently sought to reassure critics that Kim will make good on his pledges to denuclearize. Last month, Trump tweeted he had "confidence that Kim Jong Un will honor the contract we signed &, even more importantly, our handshake" in Singapore.

Yet the most tangible result of the June 12 summit so far has been last week's handover by North Korea of the remains of more than 50 service members killed in the Korean War. The question of denuclearization remains a separate one, Defense Secretary Jim Mattis has said, and U.S. and North Korean diplomats traded jabs on the issue at last weekend's annual conference of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

At that conference, which also took place in Singapore, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo handed to North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho a letter from Trump to Kim.

Bolton revealed Tuesday the letter contained a proposal from Trump for Pompeo to make another visit to North Korea to meet with Kim.

"Secretary of State Pompeo is prepared to go back to North Korea to meet with Kim Jong Un. We've proposed that in our most recent letter from the president to Kim Jong Un," Bolton said.

"The president's prepared to meet at any point," he added. "But what we really need is not more rhetoric. What we need is performance from North Korea on denuclearization."
A special prosecutor was appointed Tuesday to investigate claims that aides to Rep. Scott Taylor, R-Va., illegally forged signatures to help an independent candidate get on the ballot, hoping to give their boss an edge over his Democratic challenger in the mid-term elections.

Aides to Taylor, a freshman lawmaker from Virginia Beach, collected signatures for independent candidate Shaun Brown, who analysts say could siphon votes away from Democratic challenger Elaine Luria.

Taylor, a former Navy SEAL, is considered somewhat vulnerable to Luria, a first-time candidate and former Navy commander, in a district that voted for President Donald Trump by about four points and elected Gov. Ralph Northam, D, in 2017.

Independent analysts at Cook Political Report say the district "leans Republican" while the University of Virginia Center for Politics rates it a toss up.

At least a half dozen people - several of them with connections to state or local politics - have come forward in recent days to say their signatures, or signatures belonging to their relatives, appear on election petitions that they did not sign.

They include Del. Glenn Davis, R-Virginia Beach, and his wife, as well as Elizabeth "Bet" Cake, the widow of Stuart Cake, a longtime civil servant for the Navy, who died in April, before the date on which he is purported to have signed the petition.

Forging documents on election materials is a violation of state law.

A judge granted a request from Virginia Beach Republican commonwealth's attorney, Colin Stolle, to appoint the commonwealth's attorney for Roanoke, Donald Caldwell, to the case. Stolle's office referred questions to Caldwell, who did not respond to a request for comment.

The names of Colin Stolle's brothers, Virginia Beach Sheriff Ken Stolle and Del. Chris Stolle, R-Virginia Beach, also appear on Brown's petitions.

Taylor said the fraudulent signatures issues, first reported by WHRO-FM radio, prompted him to fire his campaign consultant and reinforced his earlier decision to fire his campaign manager. He did not identify either of the aides by name.

"My campaign has a zero-tolerance policy for inappropriate activities," Taylor said in a statement. "Recently we became aware of the inconsistencies in a voter petition process along with everyone else."

He said the investigation would not affect his ability to run his campaign, and said Brown should remain on the ballot.

On Monday, the day before the special prosecutor was appointed, Taylor called the allegations of fraudulent signatures a "nothing burger" and accused the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee of disenfranchising Brown by endorsing Luria over her and other Democrats who were seeking the nomination.

Brown later dropped out of the primary to run as an independent. She is currently awaiting a second trial in federal court on charges that she bilked the government out of public funds by inflating the number of meals her nonprofit served children in 2012, after a mistrial last week.

Taylor said he was aware his staff was collecting signatures for Brown, but that he did not direct the effort. "I'm not dumb," the congressman said in an interview. "If [Brown gets] on the ballot it's probably worse for Elaine than it is for me. So what? They shouldn't have disenfranchised her."

Spokesmen for the DCCC and Virginia Democrats said it is up to Taylor to explain what happened with the signatures.

The Virginia Beach Democratic Committee has been collecting affidavits from residents who claim their signatures were forged, committee chairwoman Sandra Brandt said. They include Ann Kolantis, 81, who said her first name was misspelled - with an 'e' at the end - on Brown's petitions.

"Maybe someone figured this is an older woman she doesn't know which way is up," she said. "Or maybe they just picked my name out of a hat."

Cake, the widow, said her husband "would have been very upset" to know that his name was signed on a petition after his death. "We pride ourselves on doing things the right way," said Cake, 71, who is retired from the Norfolk office of Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va. "It's very disappointing and sad."

Another name on the petition belongs to Eileen Eady, 44, who moved to Las Vegas five years ago. She speculated that Taylor's aides mined old voter records in search of names, including hers, to add to Brown's petitions.

Davis, a state lawmaker who sought the GOP nomination for governor last year, said he legitimately signed a petition for Brown, but that his and his wife's forged names appear elsewhere in the petitions with an incorrect address that they didn't give.

"It's concerning," he said, "but the larger concern is the integrity of the political process that gets compromised."

After Rep. Barbara Comstock in northern Virginia, Taylor is considered the most vulnerable Republican in the Virginia's congressional delegation. The Republican superPAC, Congressional Leadership Fund opened a field office in his district early last year and has kept it open.

Quentin Kidd, a political scientist at Christopher Newport University, said the special prosecutor's investigation could hurt Taylor, who has tried to carve out a brand distinct from Trump, despite supporting the president's agenda.

"I don't know how you move on from this in an easy way," Kidd said. "If this was going to be a toss-up race, this could be the difference between a close win and close loss for Scott Taylor."
BEIJING - Two weeks ago, four American airlines agreed to list Taiwan as a Chinese territory, a major concession to Beijing's cartological anxieties about disputed territories like the island-nation of 23 million. Now, Taipei is fighting back.

On Monday, Taiwan's transportation and communications minister said he's considering punishing the airlines that removed Taiwan from their websites.

"It's definitely unacceptable," Wu Hong-Mo told local newspaper the United Daily News. "We must retaliate."

Wu said offending airlines might be banned from using the air bridges that allow passengers to board the plane, or from getting plum time slots for landing or take off. The ministry is also considering a plan to reward airlines that adopt more neutral language, like reducing the fees they pay to use Taiwan's airports.

"There are many different ways to do it," he said.

If Taiwan moves ahead with its plan, it would be unprecedented, according to Rupert Hammond-Chambers, president of the US-Taiwan Business Council.

"I've never seen anything like that," he said. Hammond-Chambers suggested Taipei's unusually assertive response could be connected to upcoming fall elections. Leaders "don't want to be seen as impotent in the face of Chinese pressure," he said.

China has always been sensitive to geographic slights. In the last few months, dozens of international companies, including Gap, Uniqlo and Qantas, have come under fire for listing Taiwan, Hong Kong, Tibet and Macau as separate countries. In January, clothing store Zara deleted Taiwan from a list of countries on its website after an international dust-up. Days later, Marriott issued a groveling mea culpa for sending a web survey that included Tibet and Taiwan as sovereign states. (Beijing shuttered its website for a week as punishment.)

But no sector has faced as much pressure as the airline industry. Last spring, the Civil Aviation Administration of China sent a letter to dozens of foreign airlines, asking them to switch their destination language from Taiwan to China Taiwan or the China Taiwan region. Hours before the deadline, a handful of U.S. airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines and Hawaiian Air, complied. (American Airlines and United Airlines did not immediately return calls for comment on Taiwan's newest plan.)

The Trump administration urged the corporations to ignore Beijing's "Orwellian" efforts. But ultimately, access to 1.4 billion potential fliers was too hard for most companies to ignore.

Corrine Png, a Singaporean aviation consultant who formerly led Asia-Pacific transportation research for JPMorgan Chase, warned that Taiwan doesn't have nearly as much leverage. The country's tourism market is already struggling to attract Chinese visitors. The number of Chinese visitors to Taiwan has dropped 35 percent over the past two years.

More than a third of all flight to Taiwan are conducted by foreign airlines. Punishing airlines could lead to fewer flights to the island which could, in turn, dampen travel demand and hurt the country's tourism, hospitality and retail industries.

Dafydd Fell, a Taiwan expert at SOAS University of London, urged Taiwan not to overreact.

"Airline policy changes do not change the reality that Taiwan remains an independent multiparty democracy," he said in an email. "China's measures are basically what I call hollow victories. They look like they are successful but they serve to reinforce anti-unification sentiment within Taiwan."

"In sporting terminology," he wrote, "China's scored an own goal."
Ignore President Donald Trump's tweets over the weekend, and you could conclude his administration is trying to sew up the trade rifts it has opened around the globe to focus on China.

Consider some of other battle zones in the multi-front trade fight. Closest to home, Trump negotiators are edging toward an agreement with their Mexican counterparts for overhauling key pieces of the North American Free Trade Agreement. The president's cease-fire with the European Union, such as it is, continues to hold. And U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer is set to huddle Friday with Japanese Economic Minister Toshimitsu Motegi for their first bilateral talks.

But Trump's Twitter tirade over the weekend extolling tariffs as a virtue unto themselves disturbs the picture. The president insisted over the course of six weeks that Americans will "win either way" under the new trade barriers, whether or not they yield better deals; that China and "other countries" are "spending a fortune. . . trying to scare our politicians to fight me on Tariffs" and that the tariffs are "already working big time." He claimed that revenue from tariffs will pay down the national debt (debunked here by my colleague Heather Long) and force foreign manufacturers to locate in the U.S.

Trade insiders and experts see no grand strategy at play.While there is wide agreement within the administration over the need to confront Chinese trading abuses, the consensus frays over the other fights Trump has picked. Among the leading trade hawks in the president's inner orbit, for example, Lighthizer has advocated for months for narrowing the White House's attention on China. Senior trade adviser Peter Navarro, on the other hand, argues for pressing ahead with tariffs even on traditional allies in a bid to fundamentally rebalance U.S. trading relationships around the world.

"Many in the administration would like to turn their attention to China, but the.... tariffs on steel and aluminum and the investigation on autos have been distractions that have divided us from our natural allies," says Barbara Weisel, who served as chief U.S. negotiator for the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

The president's recent embrace of a truce with the European Union and a bailout for U.S. farmers caught in the tariff crossfire suggest to some that he is finally feeling political pressure to stop escalating tensions. But whether Trump sees tariffs as a tool to muscle trading partners into granting the U.S. more favorable terms - or as a means to force a more permanent separation of the U.S. from the global economic order - remains an open question. "It's not clear what the president really thinks on this," says Rob Atkinson, president of the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation.

The weeks ahead should offer new clues. Expect more peacemaking, for example, if Lighthizer's Friday meeting with Motegi yields common ground that Trump touts as a breakthrough with Japan. That's because unlike the European Union, Japan has refrained from striking back on Trump's metals tariffs with retaliatory duties, arguably putting it in a weaker negotiating position. A quick move by the administration to hand that country its own cease-fire anyway would point to a wider interest in extinguishing firefights. "We'll know a lot more after that meeting," one industry source said, noting that India has taken a similar approach.

On NAFTA, despite the recent progress with Mexico, time is running out for the Trump team to work through a long list of thorny issues this year. As the New York Times's Ana Swanson wrote last week, "Under current trade laws, the Trump administration must give Congress 90 days' notice between when it concludes negotiating a trade agreement and when it is signed. For [outgoing Mexican President Enrique] Pena Nieto to sign the agreement before he leaves office on Nov. 30, the three countries must seal a final deal before Aug. 27." But even if they don't reach a deal by then, there's nothing to stop Trump from declaring an early victory if he wants more grist for the case that his aggressive tactics and dealmaking prowess are paying dividends.

On the other hand, Trump will have opportunities to keep ratcheting up trade hostilities if he chooses. The administration is continuing to review whether to forge ahead with tariffs on imports of foreign autos and auto imports - a decision that could come within a month. The president could do so on a limited basis, handing exemptions to the Europeans pending more negotiations, and, say, the Japanese, if the Lighthizer's meeting bears fruit. "We are encouraged that the U.S. and Japan are meeting this week," a spokesperson for the Association of Global Automakers said in an email. "We want more trade, not less, and talks are always a good first step in any negotiation."
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Virginia -- There are no visible scars on Charlottesville. It remains a beautiful, leafy town of 50,000 residents with a thriving core, great restaurants, a bustling nightlife, and the cultural and intellectual amenities of being home to the state's signature university and a major hospital.

But if the outward appearance is unchanged, those who live here know how injured the city is and how strained the recovery has been. On Aug. 12, the city will mark one year since racial hatred bared its fangs here, menacing a community and a country. There will be prayer services and music and tributes to the injured and the dead. It is being billed as a day to remember and to heal after a tumultuous and often painful year.

Charlottesville, Virginia, has spent the better part of the past 12 months remembering and recovering. It also has been taking stock and placing blame. There has been plenty of that to go around. Blame for law enforcement that didn't protect its citizens. Blame for the city council and the local and state government that planned ineffectively. Blame for the university that didn't communicate the danger to its community. Blame for President Donald Trump for not speaking out unequivocally to condemn the marchers who had spewed their racist views.

The real damage has been to the city's psyche and the sense of itself, residents say. They realize Charlottesville is now known as the site of America's largest white supremacy gathering in decades. And they know their community is defined to some extent by the racial violence that erupted downtown Aug. 12 during the "Unite the Right" rally and the night before, when 200 self-proclaimed white supremacists marched through the University of Virginia campus chanting, "Our blood, our soil!" and "Jews will not replace us!"

Coming to terms with that has meant different things to different people. Some residents want to put it in the past and focus on reclaiming the city's reputation. Others want residents to engage in difficult conversations about race and the city's history with slavery, Jim Crow and segregation.

"A lot of people here were uncomfortable with what happened on Aug. 12 and said, 'Let's just unite and move forward,' " said 17-year-old Zyahna Bryant, a student activist about to enter her senior year at Charlottesville High School. "But there hasn't been the work to go back and reckon with white supremacy. Before we can move on and heal as a community, we have to reckon with that."

For Bryant and others, that means addressing gentrification and the paucity of affordable housing in the city, ending stop-and-frisk policing, improving educational opportunities and, importantly, Bryant said, "amplifying the voices and experiences of people of color who are disproportionately affected by racial violence."

It also means acknowledging that institutional racism exists as a potent force here. The more outspoken critics say that while modern Charlottesville prides itself on being a progressive and liberal city, it has never reconciled its present with its racist past. They say the city and university have not come to terms with their history of being built, enriched and sustained by enslaved people and remaining, for much of the 20th century, a segregated city that celebrated the vestiges of the Confederacy rather than casting them aside.

The violence of last August shattered the conceptions some here had of their home. There was a desire to look at the white supremacists as invaders and outsiders, even though two of the organizers, Jason Kessler and Richard Spencer, were U-Va. graduates and Kessler lives in the city. The city had to more closely examine what it represented.

"We lost our naivete," said Kathy Galvin, 62, a city councilwoman who has lived in Charlottesville since 1983. "It is easy to kind of take comfort in all the accolades we got up until that point. 'Most innovative city, the happiest city.' But there were many of us who knew that we had entrenched pockets of poverty that were also aligned by race and were legacies of Jim Crow."

While the process has been difficult, it has also been illuminating, Galvin said.

"We can't presume to think that we have turned a corner or that we are beyond blame," she said. "So it gave rise to introspection and soul-searching."

It also gave rise to anger and protests. Fallout from Aug. 12 is everywhere. The city's police chief resigned. The city manager's contract was not extended. Scathing reports criticized the response by the city and the university. In November, a leading city council critic, Nikuyah Walker, was elected to the body and chosen by other members as the city's first black female mayor.

The tension ebbs and flows, but it does not let go.

City council sessions have been repeatedly disrupted by those who believe their concerns aren't being addressed. Residents report warnings that the white supremacists are plotting a return. Kessler tried to obtain a permit for an anniversary rally. He withdrew that request and is hoping to hold one in Washington, D.C., that day. There was widespread relief in Charlottesville that he abandoned a plan for a rally here, but a residue of uncertainty and fear lingers.

"I'm not going outside that day," said Nydia Lee, 25, who lives in a public housing development just south of the city's downtown and watched last year when white supremacists passed nearby. "We got a preview of what our ancestors went through, and it was scary. It was overwhelming."

---

Sophie Schectman was in a celebratory mood. She and a large group of like-minded protesters had stood up to the hundreds of white supremacists and Nazi sympathizers who had descended on her hometown, forcing their rally to end before it began.

Charlottesville, that hot summer morning, had been a hellscape. The marchers filled the air of the typically quiet college town with racist and homophobic chants and jeers. The protesters shouted back. There were chemicals sprayed and pitched battles in the streets. Fists and bricks and bottles flew. City police and Virginia state troopers decided not to intervene. The country and the world witnessed the unchecked rage and violence play out on television and Twitter.

By a little after noon, quiet was returning.

"It felt like we had won on that day," said Schectman, 22, who grew up here and graduated this spring from U-Va. "We had showed up to make it clear that their racist and white supremacist ideology was not welcome in Charlottesville by the people of Charlottesville."

Schectman was feeling joyful as she walked up Fourth Street, just off the city's downtown pedestrian mall. She turned to give a friend a hug. She never heard the car roar down the street, headed directly at the crowd.

In an instant, Schectman, a track athlete, was struck. When she came to, she was lying on the sidewalk. Blood spilled from her forehead, and she felt a searing pain in her legs. She suffered a concussion, two broken legs, bruises and blood loss. It would take two surgeries and months of rehabilitation before she could walk again. She may never be able to return to running.

James Alex Fields Jr., an Ohio resident with Nazi leanings, is accused of deliberately driving his car into the crowd of unsuspecting protesters, injuring Schectman and dozens of others. One, Heather Heyer, 32, was killed. The already violent day had turned deadly, and in the course of a few hours, Charlottesville had become synonymous with racial menace.

Fields is awaiting trial on first-degree murder charges and has been charged with federal hate crimes, for which he could face the death penalty.

Sitting in a downtown cafe a block from where she was run over, Schectman betrays little emotion but says she is angry her city and her university failed the community. She's angry, too, that there have been no apologies issued or responsibility accepted for those failures. And though her injuries were severe and life-altering, her focus is not on herself.

"It has become more clear to everybody that we need to be fighting oppression in all of its forms," she said. "And we need to be fighting white supremacy that shows itself in everyday life here in Charlottesville."

---

Charlottesville can't rewrite its history of last year any more than it can of the past 250 years. But people who live here say they have learned lessons, had their eyes opened to truths they previously weren't forced to face.

Caroline Polk and her husband, Forrest Swope, are longtime Charlottesville residents who went to witness the white supremacists march on their town. They were prepared for demonstrations but not for the venom.

"Look, we're white. This stuff doesn't affect us every day," Polk said. "If I get pulled over by a cop, I don't worry about getting shot. I just hope what happened last year motivated people to be better allies and call out racism when they see it."

Wes Bellamy said he hopes the discussions and awareness borne by last year's violence will be transformative for the city. Bellamy, 31, is a city councilor who helped push the city to remove a statue of Robert E. Lee from a downtown park. The decision to banish the statue resulted in death threats and hate mail and, in part, is what led to the white supremacists deciding on Charlottesville as the location for their rally.

For now, that statue remains, caught in a legal limbo. But this is not the time to back down, Bellamy said as he sat at a table outside Mel's Cafe in Charlottesville.

"If we skirt around the issues, we're not going to get anywhere. Let's put it on the table. That's what I think we've done in this community," he said. "Just because it makes you uncomfortable doesn't mean we can't talk about it."

On Aug. 12 this year, Bellamy said, he wants people "to be out there and celebrate that we're a year stronger."

"We took a punch to the face, but we weren't knocked out," he said. "We're going to win this fight. But we have to be resilient."
Houston police arrested one of the 10 people on Texas' list of "most wanted" sex offenders in July.

Anthony Fitzgerald Turner, 54, was arrested after being on the run for almost two years.
A food handler's course accredited by the Texas Department of State Health Services is being offered by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Hale County Office.

"Food Safety: It's In Your Hands" is scheduled for Aug. 7 from 9:30 11:30 A.M. at the Hale County Extension Office - 225 Broadway, Suite 6, Plainview, Tex.

This one- to two-hour course will now be required for all food service employees to help promote the service of safe food. The certificate is good for two years and is valid anywhere in Texas. The course is a basic overview of food safety practices that are necessary to ensure that safe food is served at your establishment. Practices discussed include good personal hygiene, cross contamination and time and temperature abuse.

The "Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER)" was revised and updated and effective Oct. 11, 2015.

A major change in the revision now requires all food employees to complete an accredited food handler's training program within 60 days of employment, effective Sept. 16, 2016.

To register for the course, call the Extension office at (806)291-5270. The deadline to register is Aug. 6 by noon.

The cost is $20 per person and must be paid in full before the course begins.

The class is taught in English but Spanish handouts are available if requested in advance.

For more information about the Food Handlers Course contact Deana Sageser, CEA-FCH at (806)291-5270, e-mail dlsageser@ag.tamu.edu. or come by 225 Broadway, Suite 6 in Plainview.
A University of Incarnate Word student accused of smuggling nearly $900,000 in drug money has opted to remain in jail.

Lawyers for Juan Pablo Hoyos Avila, 19, filed a waiver before his scheduled bail hearing on Monday.
A DACA student who has been protesting outside a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility on the North Side is now in federal custody facing deportation, either a victim of retaliation for speaking his mind or a violator of immigration law accused of making threats against law enforcement.

Sergio Mapache Salazar, 18, is being painted by his lawyers and supporters as coming under attack from federal agents because hes calling for the elimination of ICE, the federal agency that has been a lightning rod over the Trump Administrations crackdown on immigrants that included the now-abandoned practice of separating undocumented parents from their children at the border.

But federal officials say he was arrested Friday for violating federal immigration law  an application to renew his temporary legal status was denied the day before  and sources confirmed Salazars name is on an FBI database of potential threats.

FROM PREMIUM: Small group of young activists call for abolishing ICE, Express-News report

Salazar was born in Mexico and has been here since he was 2. He has been living legally in the United States as a recipient of temporary legal immigration status under the controversial Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) initiative. The advocacy organization RAICES had filed for a renewal of his DACA status.

In a news release, RAICES, whose lawyers are representing Salazar, said he was arrested Friday as he left the protest camp outside an ICE bond and processing facility near Wurzbach Parkway. He was taken to an area behind a nearby abandoned Walmart, the statement claims, where his personal items were confiscated, he was shackled and taken to a detention center in Pearsall. He was later taken to a detention center in Laredo.

RAICES and Salazars father claim the FBI also got involved, watching the Salazar home a month ago and then questioning Salazar after his arrest Friday about his online activities and trying to get him to cooperate against other protesters.

They told him they had a search warrant for his cell phone based on accusations... related to impeding an officer and threats of bomb-making, RAICES said in a statement. Sergio has never been in trouble with the law and is strictly nonviolent. Sergio recently graduated (from) high school and is an aspiring filmmaker.

RELATED: Are 91% of DACA recipients employed, in school or in the military?

Salazar had a video at last years CineFestival and won an award in 2016 for his film work when he was a student at Roosevelt High School.

Other protestors at the campsite said Monday that Salazar was kidnapped but otherwise referred questions to RAICES.

FBI spokeswoman Michelle Lee declined comment about the allegations, but added Im not aware of any criminal charges against this individual at this time.

A review of federal court records shows no criminal charges against Salazar, but court observers note he is in administrative immigration proceedings, which is a process different from the criminal justice system.

ICE officials said in a statement that the agency does not target immigrants unlawfully present in the United States based on their advocacy positions or in retaliation for critical comments they make.

Any suggestion to the contrary is irresponsible, speculative and inaccurate. ICE prioritizes its enforcement resources on individuals who pose a threat to national security, public safety and border security, the statement reads. Target information is based on intelligence-driven leads - this may include open source information.

Law enforcement sources confirmed to the Express-News that Salazar is the subject of scrutiny by the FBIs Joint Terrorism Task Force because of an intelligence referral by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

READ ALSO: Group with fascist ties takes credit for attack on anti-ICE protest camp

Salazar was being looked at because of his or his groups online postings allegedly threatening law enforcement  and specifically ICE  and/or instructional videos on how to make certain unspecified weapons and countering law enforcement, according to the sources.

His name and the intelligence information wound up on a special FBI database, the sources said.

When the FBI or JTTF gets a referral, (the information) is entered there, said a retired FBI agent. It could be anything, and not necessarily major. It could be someone heard the person making threats or saw them post them or things like that.

Salazars involvement with the Autonomous Brown Berets de San Antonio, TejAztlan is also being scrutinized. On Facebook, the grass roots group says it is statewide and focuses on serving the community and acting as a vanguard against oppression, racism, and poverty.

Over the weekend, the group asked visitors to Free Mapache in a Facebook post saying the feds arrested Salazar to silence him.

Mapache is a dedicated, longtime community activist who has committed himself to fighting deportations, police violence, and corporate exploitation, the post states. He is overflowing with generosity and is always willing to put himself on the line for others. He is only 18 years old, fresh out of high school, and he has already contributed and sacrificed so much for local activism. We ask you to give him all your support as we move forward in responding to this blatant example of State repression.

His arrest comes ahead of a hearing this week in a lawsuit filed by Texas and other states challenging the constitutionality of DACA. The Mexican American Legal and Educational Fund entered the case to defend some DACA recipients because MALDEF says the Trump Administration opposes DACA.

Guillermo Contreras covers federal court and immigration news in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | gcontreras@express-news.net | Twitter: @gmaninfedland
After serving 15 years for aggravated robbery committed when he was 19, one former prisoner is now a professional chef.

Milas Williams graduated from culinary school four years after his release in 2014. Today, chef Williams is praised by law enforcement, community leaders and culinary experts for seeking education and giving back to the community.

Williams, a San Antonio native, sponsored the second annual Junior Chef Competition last month at Wagner High School. The competition featured two two-member teams of students  Team On Fire and Team No Smoke. Each team was overseen by an executive chef and a sous chef.

In keeping with the events cultural theme, lively Latin and Brazilian music played as teams kept up a quick pace for the timed food preparation.

Several of the competitors said they learned about this program on Facebook and submitted videos demonstrating their potential. Beside the ability to cook, participation requirements include the skill to explain each step in the cooking process; proper food service protocol; sanitation and the proper handling of knives; and the ability to speak knowledgeably for print and television interviews.

The challenge required the two teams to open a mystery box of ingredients and prepare a two-course meal from scratch.

A panel of five judges tasted one teams dessert made with egg mango sauce, pecans, cinnamon and peppers. It received mixed reviews. The second course was more conventional, but with a twist: grilled, baked and steamed chicken, with seared bananas, watermelon and rice, covered with leftover dessert sauce.

It was a weird combination, and it tasted great! said Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar, a panel judge for the competition.

Before entering the police academy 25 years ago, Salazar worked as a bartender, and he said he spent plenty of time in the kitchen. One of his reasons for participating as a judge, Salazar said, was that hed like for young people to see the friendly side of law enforcement and for officers to see each child as an individual.

Though culinary skills were not required to serve as a judge, Bexar County Precinct 4 Commissioner Tommy Calvert said his experience in banquet service came in handy.

Extracurriculars were very formative to my professional life down the road, Calvert said. These kinds of beyond the school door opportunities are life-changing.

Calvert strongly supports Williams, now 34, as he rebuilds his life.

Tears fell for one of the junior chefs after Williams presented her with a family heirloom. During the competition, Cherish Piper received inspiration as she donned the apron of her late grandfather, who was a chef for 40 years.

I was shocked when I was given his apron, said Cherish Piper, a first-year culinary arts student at St. Philips College. It made me a lot less nervous.

Elisha Molina, a 17-year-old Sam Houston High School student, said he was not fazed when told of his mentors criminal background.

I always say the past makes you the person you are now, Molina said. You could fix the mistakes you have made now and make yourself a better person.

He has done a couple of bad things in the past. Hes changed. He is giving young chefs the opportunity to showcase our talent, Molina said.

Williams said the young competitors will gain more than just cooking experience.

Culinary is not just about cooking, Williams said. They will take the discipline they learn from here. You have to be able to communicate, you have to be able to have teamwork, and you have to know who can handle pressure and who cant in the kitchen.

Our life and these youths lives are like a recipe. You have to have the right type of measurement, the right type of ingredient to have a perfect life, he added.

Williams hopes to take his Junior Chef Competition to the Bexar County Juvenile Detention Center.
The chamber of Congress that Democrats are best positioned to wrest control of in the midterm elections is the House. Thats indisputable. But the lopsided focus on it  I plead guilty myself  sometimes creates the impression that taking the Senate is a pipe dream and lost cause. And thats insane.

Its a reach, yes. Many more Democrats than Republicans in the Senate are up for re-election and thus defending their seats and many are doing so in states that Donald Trump won handily. I wouldnt bet on a Democratic takeover.

But I wouldnt give up on it, because a Democratic majority in the Senate means more than one in the House (Supreme Court, anyone?), and there really is a rationale for hope.

OPINION: Face the facts: Beto will lose

It starts with the general political climate and Trumps approval rating, which never crests 45 percent. Sad! Recent polls have shown that in congressional races, voters prefer a generic Democrat to a generic Republican by 6 to 10 points. Thats wave territory and Democrats are favored by the historical patterns of midterms.

Theyve also had some luck to counter rosy economic statistics. In key Senate races, the partys incumbents and preferred candidates havent faced tough primary challenges, so they havent been bruised prematurely, forced to tap financial resources early or pushed to places on the political spectrum that might be trouble in a general election.

The party needs to pick up two seats. It has more than two states to turn to. For a while now, Jacky Rosen in ever-bluer Nevada has been scaring the bejesus out of the Republican incumbent, Dean Heller. More recently, Kyrsten Sinema in reddish Arizona and Phil Bredesen in redder Tennessee have emerged as fearsome contenders for seats being vacated by Trump-averse Republicans (Jeff Flake and Bob Corker, respectively).

Democrats struck gold when Bredesen agreed to run: Hes a former two-term governor of Tennessee who exhibited bipartisan appeal. Hes polling strongly. And hes campaigning sagely. In one ad he tells voters that if Trump pushes a policy good for the people of Tennessee, hell support it. It doesnt matter where it came from.

That assurance reflects the strategically tempered approach that other Senate candidates in Trump-friendly states are taking. For example, Heidi Heitkamp, the vulnerable Democratic incumbent in North Dakota, uses one of her ads to say, I voted over half the time with President Trump, and that made a lot of people in Washington mad.

Jennifer Duffy, who handicaps Senate races for the nonpartisan Cook Political Report, has both Arizona and Tennessee in the tossup category. Late last week, she moved Texas from likely Republican to leans Republican, upgrading the chances of an upset by Beto ORourke, the Democratic challenger to Ted Cruz. I just cant ignore Texas anymore, she told me. ORourke has too much money. Its largely small donations from individual donors, underscoring the romance of his bid and the contrast between him and Cruz, whos not exactly romantic.

OPINION: Off to the races for Cruz and ORourke

Democratic leaders have, among other smart adjustments, ramped up their digital efforts with an eye toward the youngest voters, whose turnout is typically disappointing but whose distaste for Trump is strong. The partys problem  a huge one  is that 10 of its incumbents are in states that voted for Trump. It cant afford for more than one or two to lose.

The four in Rust Belt states where Trump prevailed by single-digit margins  Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Ohio  seem for now to be safe, amid signals of disenchantment with Trump in that region.

North Dakota, Montana, Indiana, Missouri and West Virginia all favored Trump by double-digit margins. But in none of them has the Republican challenger yet proved especially mighty. In Montana and in West Virginia, where a Democratic super PAC spent heavily and successfully to keep the Republican candidate it considered most worrisome from getting the nomination, the Democratic incumbents are looking sturdier every day.

Florida, where Trump edged out Hillary Clinton, will be noisy and nasty. Bill Nelsons Republican challenger is the states governor, Rick Scott, whos willing to pump his own millions into the race. But both the Democratic megadonor Tom Steyer and the American Civil Liberties Union are engaged in initiatives that could elevate Democratic turnout there. And Scotts two gubernatorial victories were mere 1-point wins in midterm years  2010 and 2014  when Republicans swaggered. In 2018, theyre slinking.

Some Republicans believe that they can snatch the Senate seat held by Robert Menendez, a New Jersey Democrat who was ensnared in a humiliating ethics scandal. Democratic leaders arent all that worried and Duffy sides with them.

Shes riveted by  wait for it  Mississippi. Thats the big asterisk that makes me crazy, she said. An open Senate seat there might not be decided until a Nov. 27 runoff of sorts. What if everything hinges on it and Democrats, emboldened by their Senate victory in a special election in Alabama last year make a similar stand in another usually hopeless state?

Mississippians, brace for a media invasion like youve never seen. Americans, buckle up.
A man who appeared before Longford District Court last week charged under the Public Order Act was convicted and fined 250 following a brief hearing into the matter.

Sanni Oseize (35), 9 Kanes Apartments, Market Square, Longford appeared before Judge Seamus Hughes charged with being intoxicated in a public place and engaging in threatening, abusive and insulting words or behaviour at Market Square, Longford on July 23, 2018.

Outlining the evidence to the court, Garda Frank Fallon said that on the date in question at approximately 1:45pm he was driving down by the Market Point area of Longford town when he observed the defendant in a row on the street.

The defendant was out on the street shouting and being aggressive, added Garda Fallon.

People were trying to calm him down.

The court then heard that when the local garda approached the defendant he became aggressive towards him.

He was arrested and taken to the garda station.

Meanwhile, in mitigation, the defendants solicitor Frank Gearty said his client was married to a

Hungarian lady for the last 12 months and living happily here in Longford town.

She has a nail bar business in Dublin, and unfortunately she was away on the date of this incident when it appears that he went drinking, Mr Gearty added.

The defendant then told the court, I was drunk but not fighting - it was about my friend.



Judge Hughes subsequently convicted the defendant and imposed a fine of 250 before bringing matters before him to a conclusion.
Sixty-six residential addresses in Longford were added to the GeoDirectory database in the 12 months to June 2018, according to figures from the latest GeoView Residential Buildings Report, published by GeoDirectory.

Nationally, the majority of addresses were added in Dublin, accounting for 39.8 per cent of the overall national total, highlighting an east/west divide in terms of new addresses.

On the other end of the scale, Longford and Leitrim were the only two counties to record fewer than 100 new residential addresses, registering only 66 and 87 new addresses respectively.

In total, 31 buildings were classified as being under construction in Longford in June 2018, the second lowest total in the country.

The majority of construction activity took place in urban areas, with the highest levels recorded in Dublin (34.9%), Cork (10.7%) and Meath (10.5%).

Construction activity was particularly low in the counties of Leitrim (0.2%), Longford (0.3%) and Offaly (0.5%).

Longfords residential vacancy rate stands at 10.5% per cent.

This is higher than the average vacancy rate of 4.8 per cent.

Leitrim registered the highest residential vacancy rate in the country at 15.9 per cent.

Dublin, Kildare, Meath and Wicklow recorded the lowest percentages of vacant units in the country, at rates between 0.9 and 3.5 per cent.

The national average residential property price in the 12 months to April 2018 was 273,206. When Dublin is excluded, the national average falls to 198,906 with Longfords average house price coming in at 101,587. In Longford Town, the average house price was 106,486.
A man who appeared before the Granard sitting of Longford District Court recently charged under the Public Order Act was convicted and fined 250 following a hearing into the matter.

Tony McDonagh (19), 75 Oaklands, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim appeared before Judge Seamus Hughes charged with being intoxicated in a public place and engaging in threatening, abusive and insulting words or behaviour at the Train Station, Edgeworthstown, Co Longford on February 18 last.

Outlining the evidence to the court, Sergeant Mark Mahon said that on the date in question at approximately 8:15pm, local gardai went to the train station and observed the defendant shouting and roaring in the adjoining car park.

Mr McDonagh was directed to leave the area but didnt do so, added Sergeant Mahon.

He was also highly intoxicated and unsteady on his feet.

Meanwhile, in mitigation the defendants solicitor Brid Mimnagh said that her client was currently unemployed but engaged in a computer course.

He is 19-years-old, she added.

This is a case of drink in, and young stupidity when the wit was out.

Ms Mimnagh also pointed out to the court that her client lived at home with his parents and two brothers and had difficulties when he was a minor.

During his deliberations on the matter Judge Hughes added, This fella had too much to drink and was roaring and shouting at the train station.

The Judge continued, I can see you getting into very serious trouble.

Judge Hughes subsequently convicted the defendant and fined him 250 for being intoxicated in a public place. The second charge was struck out by the Judge.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 7)  The joint exploration deal for oil and gas deposits is drawing one step closer, as the Philippines and China create their respective working groups for it.

In a press briefing Friday, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said President Rodrigo Duterte approved the creation of a working group to study the legalities of the deal.

"I just got his approval in principle," Cayetano claimed.

He said the group will have experts from government agencies such as the Department of National Defense, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Solicitor General, and the Department of Justice, among others.

A legal team is composed of oil and gas experts, constitutional law authorities, and professionals dealing with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

"Our job now is to put up a framework that's acceptable to both China and the Philippines, and the first part should be exploration," Cayetano said. He added that they will leave future contract negotiations to the commercial entities.

The foreign affairs chief said China is also ready with its technical working group.

"As soon as both sides send their working group(s), at least we can talk," Cayetano said. "I'm not sure if we can agree, but at least we can start talking."

Cayetano said he will talk with Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi to discuss which areas they are eyeing for joint exploration, but said they will look into areas with existing service contracts (SC).

"It takes so much time for this. Diba ang (Isn't the) oil and gas exploration and development is just like building powerplants? There's such a huge time that you need to get this done," he said.

In March, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the areas of Service Contracts (SC) 57 and Service Contract 72 are being considered for the exploration.

READ: PH eyeing 'joint exploration' in 2 S. China Sea areas - Palace

SC 57 is an undisputed area within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone, and lies beyond China's nine-dash line claims in the South China Sea. It is a joint exploration located offshore of Palawan, between state-run PNOC Exploration Corporation, Mitra Energy Ltd., and China's state-owned China National Offshore Oil Company.

Meanwhile, SC 72 refers to the agreement on the Reed Bank off Palawan in 2010. The government awarded exploration rights to an area in Reed Bank to United Kingdom-based oil and gas company Forum Energy Plc. (FEP). The majority of FEP's shares are owned by business tycoon Manny V. Pangilinan.
Local News, Crime, Business & Finance

By Long Island News & PR Published: August 07 2018

As the Result of Unprecedented Settlement, Tenants Eligible for $8 Million in Restitution from Croman  Largest-Ever Monetary Settlement with an Individual Landlord.

New York, NY - August 7, 2018 - Today, New York Attorney General Barbara D. Underwood announced that tenants who live or formerly lived in buildings owned by New York City landlord Steven Croman will be able to apply for restitution, as part of the unprecedented settlement reached by the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) in December 2017. The settlement arose out of an investigation and lawsuit filed by the Attorney Generals office against Croman for engaging in illegal conduct  including harassment, coercion, and fraud  in order to force rent-regulated tenants out of their apartments and convert their apartments into highly profitable market-rate units.

This office has zero tolerance for predatory landlords who seek to line their pockets at the expense of their tenants wellbeing, said Attorney General Underwood. Now, Croman tenants will finally get the restitution and protections they deserve as a result of this unprecedented settlement  the largest-ever with an individual landlord. We will continue to do everything in our power to ensure landlords play by the rules, and pursue them to the fullest extent of the law when they dont.

The consent decree requires Croman to pay $8 million into a Tenant Restitution Fund  the largest-ever monetary settlement with an individual landlord. Tenants are eligible for restitution if they are or were a tenant in a rent-stabilized or rent-controlled apartment owned by Croman between July 1, 2011 and the date of the agreement (December 20, 2017); they received a buyout of less than $20,000, not including any amount that purported to cover rent or arrears; and no other tenant in their apartment received money from the restitution fund. Several hundred current and former tenants are potentially eligible to apply for these restitution funds.

This week, JND Legal Administration, the claims administrator, mailed claim notices and forms to current and former rent-stabilized and rent-controlled tenants in Cromans buildings. Those forms and additional information are also available at www.cromanrestitutionfund.com . The $8 million will be divided equally among eligible claimants and distributed to tenants in installments over a period of 38 to 42 months, with the first installment coming as soon as the claims administrator processes all of the first-round claim forms.

In addition to the $8 million Tenant Restitution Fund, the settlement also requires over 100 Croman residential properties to be run by a new, independent management company with no ties to Croman, for five years  the longest-ever term for independent management in OAG history. Moreover, the settlement requires seven years of independent monitorship to oversee compliance with the terms of the consent decree and provide regular reporting to the Attorney General  the longest-ever monitorship required in any tenant harassment case.

Earlier this year, OAG approved New York City Management as the independent management company; the management company took over operations of the buildings on July 1, 2018. Pursuant to the settlement, New York City Management is instituting new policies at the Croman properties to ensure full compliance with the law and correction of all past violations. It will also post a comprehensive set of Tenants Rights in every building it manages.

The settlement was the result of a May 2016 civil lawsuit brought by the Attorney Generals office against Croman and his agent Anthony Falconite for allegedly engaging in illegal, fraudulent, and deceptive conduct in connection with Cromans real-estate business. The lawsuit alleged that Croman directed an illegal operation that wielded harassment, coercion, and fraud to force rent-regulated tenants out of their apartments and convert their apartments into highly profitable market-rate units. The lawsuit further alleged that Croman deployed Falconite, a former New York City police officer, to frighten and intimidate rent-regulated tenants into surrendering their apartments.

In October 2017, Croman was sentenced to a year in jail and paid a $5 million tax settlement following separate criminal charges brought by the Attorney Generals office for fraudulent refinancing of loans and tax fraud. Rarely, if ever, has a landlord been sentenced to serve time in jail for engaging in these practices.

In the last decade and a half, if you asked anyone involved in housing advocacy or the tenants bar to name Manhattan landlords known for flagrantly harassing and abusing tenants, Steve Cromans name would come up early and often, said Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer. When it comes to protecting tenants, theres quite a few laws on the books that are too rarely enforced. I thank the Attorney Generals office for pursuing civil and criminal enforcement actions against Mr. Croman, winning restitution for tenants, and demonstrating that no landlord is immune to the law.

Steven Croman built a criminal enterprise on exploiting tenants in my district and across Manhattan. While no amount of money will ever adequately compensate tenants for the abuse they endured at the hands of Croman, those who suffered will now receive at least some of the compensation they deserve, said State Senator Brad Hoylman.

"The Tenant Restitution Fund sends a clear message: no bad landlord is above the law. After securing a historic win for tenants from over 100 properties, the Attorney Generals Office has now begun the process to provide tenants from Cromans properties the relief they deserve. I want to thank the Attorney Generals office for their tireless advocacy on behalf of our tenants and look forward to working with them further to make sure our affected constituents are able to access the Tenant Restitution Fund. I encourage any affected tenants to reach out to the Attorney Generals office for more information to begin their restitution process, said State Assemblymember Yuh-Line Niou.

The Stop Croman Coalition is pleased to hear that the restitution from the consent decree reached by the AG will be distributed before the end of the year as set forth under the terms of the historic settlement agreement between the Attorney General and the respondent Steve Croman / 9300 Realty. After years of intimidation and harassment by Steve Croman, the tenants will be receiving compensation that they absolutely deserve. Although no monetary amount can ever make up for the abuses that Steve Croman inflicted over these many years, it is good to know that the consent decree between the Attorney General and Steve Croman will be finalized. The Stop Croman Coalition wants to thank New York State Attorney General Barbara Underwood and her staff, especially Special Counsel, Civil Rights Bureau, Jessica Attie, for bringing about this historic outcome, said Cynthia Chaffee, Croman tenant and cofounder of the Stop Croman Coalition.
Local News, Crime

By Long Island News & PR Published: August 07 2018

Amber White, 24, also did not possess a drivers license and had six active outstanding traffic warrants, cops say.

North Amityville, NY - August 7, 2018 - Suffolk County Police have arrested a woman on Monday, August 6, for driving with 43 license suspensions after she was stopped for traffic violations in Suffolk County Police have arrested a woman on Monday, August 6, for driving with 43 license suspensions after she was stopped for traffic violations in North Amityville

First Precinct Patrol officers initiated a traffic stop after they observed a 2007 Toyota with an expired inspection sticker traveling eastbound on West Prospect Street. Officers discovered the driver, Amber White, did not possess a drivers license and her New York State identification card had been suspended 43 times due to numerous traffic violations. White also had six active outstanding traffic warrants.

Officers arrested White, 24, of Amityville , and charged her with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 1st Degree, an E Felony. She was also issued her a summons driving without a license and cleared the outstanding warrants.

White will be held overnight at the Fourth Precinct and is scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on August 7.
Local News, Health & Wellness, Politics

By Long Island News & PR Published: August 07 2018

Comprehensive Know Your Options Public Awareness Campaign to Connect New Yorkers to Accurate Reproductive Health Services, Including Family Planning, Pregnancy Care and more.

Albany, NY - August 7, 2018 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today launched a public awareness campaign to connect women to comprehensive, confidential and medically accurate reproductive health care services. The campaign will include subway ads and information translated into multiple languages to ensure women have appropriate access to all reproductive health options, including family planning, prenatal care and abortion.

These actions are in direct response to widespread reports of organizations known as Crisis Pregnancy Centers or CPCs misrepresenting themselves as health centers to dissuade those seeking abortion from going through with that choice. These reports show that CPCs often use false and misleading advertising and offer free services to attract women into their offices, where they then allegedly misinform and mislead those who seek pregnancy-related information. These centers' actions may interfere with New Yorkers' constitutionally protected rights to seek reproductive health care and may endanger them by preventing them from receiving medically accurate information.

"While the federal government wages war on women's reproductive rights, New York will fight back to protect women's access to comprehensive, safe and affordable health care," Governor Cuomo said. "In New York, we refuse to let President Trump and Washington take us backwards and jeopardize the rights of New Yorkers. We are launching this public awareness campaign to combat the insidious spread of misleading, medically inaccurate information about reproductive health and to ensure all New York women know the options they are legally entitled to."

The public awareness campaign includes subway ads to guide New Yorkers to a website with detailed, medically accurate information on pregnancy, abortion, contraception and what to look for in a reproductive health center. The information will be distributed across the state in multiple languages.

Reproductive health services are available from providers and clinics. For assistance to find an appropriate provider the campaign also directs to a list of health care programs near them that provide comprehensive, confidential family planning and reproductive health care services to all women, men, and adolescents regardless of ability to pay or immigration status. If a client does not have insurance coverage, or cannot afford their co-pay or deductible, a sliding fee scale based on the client's income is used to determine if a fee will be charged. Providers can also enroll women in affordable health insurance if needed.

This campaign builds on the Governor's record of fighting for access to reproductive health services, including abortion. Governor Cuomo previously directed that the Department of Financial Services to mandate that health insurers provide coverage for all types of contraceptive drugs and devices without co-pays, coinsurance, or deductibles, regardless of the future of the Affordable Care Act; provide abortion services that are medically necessary without co-pays, coinsurance, or deductibles (unless the plan is a high deductible plan); and provide full and accurate information about coverage.

Following the federal government's decision to nominate Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court, the Governor vowed to take action to defend New York's progressive values against the extreme conservative agenda of the Trump Administration, including the fight to codify the protections of Roe v. Wade into state law. For years, Governor Cuomo has pushed to codify the Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision and subsequent rulings into state law to secure women's access to reproductive health options. The Governor is again calling for the passage of legislation to protect the right of women to make personal health care decisions and to ensure that health care professionals can provide these crucial services without fear of criminal penalty. The Assembly has passed legislation to codify the protections of Roe v. Wade for the last six years, including during the 2018 Legislative Session.
Weather Alert

COASTAL FLOOD STATEMENT NOW IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM EDT THIS AFTERNOON THROUGH THIS EVENING * WHAT...Up to one half foot of inundation above ground level expected in vulnerable areas near the waterfront and shoreline. * WHERE...Northwest Suffolk and Northeast Suffolk Counties. * WHEN...From 4 PM EDT this afternoon through this evening. * IMPACTS...Brief minor flooding of the more vulnerable locations near the waterfront and shoreline.
Motorcyclist Arrested for DWI after Being Seriously Injured in Crash, SCPD Reports

Local News, Crime

By Long Island News & PR Published: August 07 2018

Officials: Edwin Maldonado of Bay Shore, 33, was injured when his motorcycle struck a 2013 Jeep Wrangler.

Central Islip, NY - August 7, 2018 - Suffolk County Police Third Squad detectives last night arrested a man for driving while intoxicated after he crashed his motorcycle into another vehicle in Suffolk County Police Third Squad detectives last night arrested a man for driving while intoxicated after he crashed his motorcycle into another vehicle in Central Islip

Edwin Maldonado was operating a Kawasaki motorcycle southbound on Wheeler Road near Motor Parkway when the motorcycle struck a 2013 Jeep Wrangler as it was exiting a parking lot making a left turn onto Wheeler Road at approximately 8:40 p.m.

Maldonado, 33, of Bay Shore , was transported by Central Islip Ambulance to Southside Hospital in Bay Shore for treatment of serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Jeep, Richard Wagner, 50, of New Jersey was not injured.

Maldonado was arrested and charged with DWI and Driving with a Suspended License. He will be arraigned at a later date.

Detectives are asking anyone with information about this incident to contact the Third Squad at 631-854-8352.
Local News, Crime, Politics

By Long Island News & PR Published: August 07 2018

Police Academy graduates the second class to graduate in 2018.

Mineola, NY - August 7, 2018 - Nassau County Executive Laura Curran joined with Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder to congratulate the recent Police Academy graduates, the second class to graduate in 2018.

County Executive Curran stated, This is my second police graduation since taking office earlier this year  were embarking on something new and exciting together  and it is truly my honor to be part of this swearing in and celebration. You have worked so hard these last seven months to complete your rigorous training.
The thunderstorm that hit southeast Michigan on Monday night, knocking out power at some Wayne County polling sites, ended without incident before polling places in Macomb County welcomed voters for Tuesdays primary.

Among the first to cast a vote in Chesterfield Township was Linda Valcke.

There are a lot of races I dont even vote for but I voted for Ken Goike, said Valcke, referring to one of the Republicans competing for the chance to face the winner of the Democrats running for the 8th district state Senate.

Hes run a business for a long time and I like his commonsense approach, Valcke said. He also helped my husband, who is a Vietnam veteran. He served on a combat river patrol boat and was having trouble with his benefits. I called Ken and we got the paperwork we needed shortly after that.

He wasnt even representing our district at the time, she said of the former three-term state Rep. from Ray Township, hoping to succeed the term-limited Republican Sen. Jack Brandenburg. His high-profile opponent, State Rep. Peter Lucido of Shelby Township, hit the ground running Tuesday morning.

By the time the lunchtime crowd headed to the polls, Lucido and his crew had already visited Shelby, Ray, Chesterfield, Harrison and Lenox Townships, which in his opinion, appeared to have a poor turnout.

Im not seeing a lot of people, Lucido said, during a stop at a precinct in Mount Clemens, although it was still early and a great many voters were expected to cast their vote after work rather than beforehand.

One of the things that upset voters who were turning out for the primary is that Michigans closed primary, which does not allow voters to split their ballot or vote for more than one party.

If someone chooses a Republican gubernatorial candidate but a Democratic senatorial candidate, their ballot becomes invalid.

I dont understand why they do that, said Rand Hewitt of Chesterfield Township. You should be able to cross party lines.

John Codron agreed.

Generally, we vote for Democrats, but there were a number of Republicans we liked, said Codron of Clinton Township, who voted with his wife, Carol Codron.

Of the candidates who earned their favor were James Perna and Karen Potchynok-Lund.

Perna is one of a dozen Republicans looking to restore peoples confidence in the position of Macomb County Clerk and Register of Deeds. Potchynok-Lund is one of five Republicans competing for 36th district state representative.

I voted for Perna because he seemed to be an honest person with good ideas, Codron said. I voted for Karen because I saw her speak. I was impressed by what she had to say.

Besides choosing candidates in contested Republican and Democratic races for Novembers governor, federal, state and county legislature races, voters were asked to weigh in on several ballot proposals including the renewed support for the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART).

I voted, Yes,' said Cheryl Lantinga of Clinton Township, even though she doesnt use the public transporation that serves the elderly, disabled and general public.

Theres going to come a time when I wont be able to drive and I want to be able to get to places, added the retiree. Who knows? There could be a time when we wont be able to afford cars.

Lantinga also voted in favor of a pair of proposals including road improvements and police and fire coverage, as did a majority of the voters polled during the early hours of the election.

I guess well find out tonight, said James Henry, a Clinton Township firefighter at one of the precincts Tuesday.

From a technical standpoint, Tuesdays election seemed to go well.

The equipment is all functioning properly, said Michael Grix, election specialist for Macomb County Clerk and Register of Deeds. We havent received any calls saying the tabulators werent working. Basically, its all running as we anticipated and we expect it to continue that way throughout the night.
At 5.41pm, 4 August, a powerful explosion was heard near the rostrum from which Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro was addressing a parade at Bolivar Avenue in Caracas to mark the 81st anniversary of the Bolivarian National Guard. President Maduro was unharmed, but seven members of the National Guard were injured.

In a televised address, the Venezuelan president accused outgoing Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos of being behind the attempt on his life. Far-right Venezuelan oppositionist, Patricia Poleo (based in Miami), later issued a statement from Soldados de Franelas (Soldiers in T-Shirts): a right-wing terrorist group made up of civilians and military personnel, which claimed responsibility for the attack.

While some of the details of what happened are still unclear, it seems that there were two drones carrying C4 explosives and the target was the presidential rostrum of the parade. The drones have been identified from video footage and they seem to be high-end, professional six-rotor DJM600s, capable of carrying a load of seven pounds. One exploded in the air, probably shot down by the presidents security detail, while the other veered off and crashed into a nearby residential building.

This second explosion led to some international press agencies giving credence to the idea that the detonation had come from a gas cylinder in a building rather than an attack on Maduro. Despite the international bourgeois media ceaselessly arguing for the military overthrow of the Venezuelan president, when a terrorist attack took place with that exact aim, they tried to deny it ever took place. Even now, most headlines try to sow doubts about whether the attack was real or not. Alleged Maduro assassination attempt says CNN, Apparent drone attack on Maduro reads the Washington Post, while El Pais ran the scandalous take: Maduro uses attack to reinforce attack on political opponents.

Terrorism by reactionary opposition

The reaction of the US government was in the same vein. They did not even go through the motions of issuing a condemnation of the attack, instead limiting themselves to saying that there was no US government involvement and then proceeding to hint that the attack could have been engineered by the Venezuelan government itself!

The problem for the worlds capitalist media is that admitting a terrorist organisation has carried an attack on Maduro would destroy the whole basis of their stories about a peaceful, democratic opposition. This is the characterisation they have been peddling about the 2014 and 2017 guarimbas, consisting of violent rioting and terrorist activities by the opposition. In fact, it is highly likely that the perpetrators of this attack were linked to the participants in those events. The Venezuelan authorities announced that six people had been arrested in connection with the attempt on the presidents life. The group claiming responsibility seems to have some links both with people involved in far-right terrorism during the guarimbas and the (deceased) police officer Oscar Perez who captured a police helicopter and carried out an attack in Caracas last year.

The group claiming responsibility seems to have links with participants in the guarimbas and with the terrorist Oscar Perez (pictured) / Image: fair use

More details will surely become known in the coming days. One thing is clear: ever since the beginning of the Bolivarian Revolution 20 years ago there have been constant attempts by reactionary elements within the armed forces to overthrow the democratically elected government and crush the revolutionary movement by force of arms. The reactionary and parasitical Venezuelan oligarchy never accepted that they no longer held direct control over the government. We are talking not only of the short-lived coup in April 2002 (defeated by the decisive action of the masses), but also the Altamira Square military officers pronouncement in December that same year; the attempt to use Colombian paramilitaries to kill Hugo Chavez in 2004; and dozens of other lesser-known plots. All of these intrigues  and there have been many  share one thing in common: they enjoyed the support and backing in one degree or another of US imperialism and its lackeys in the Colombian oligarchy.

Imperialist intrigues

This attack takes place after recent reliable media reports indicated that US President Donald Trump openly discussed organising a military invasion of the country last year. As well as these reports, Bloomberg reported on a military coup plot that was foiled last year, one variant of which involved assassinating president Maduro during a military parade. Bloomberg reported these coup plots were being discussed with the full knowledge and tacit approval of Colombian and US security services.

According to Bloomberg, US President Donald Trump openly discussed organising a military invasion of Venezuela last year / Image: Flickr, Gage Skidmore

The way this particular assassination attempt was conducted implies it was the action of a small terrorist group rather than a worked-out conspiracy by foreign secret services. However, the danger should not be underestimated. These terrorist groups clearly have access to funding, explosives and have connections within the army and the police forces, as was shown in the case of Oscar Perez. On top of this, there is a section of the reactionary Venezuelan opposition that does not hide its support for such methods, whether they be military coups or terrorist attacks against the head of state.

Of course, most of these terrorist cells and groups of scheming army officers are known to the US intelligence services, many of them having close links to the Miami mafia of Cuban exiles, which exerts an enormous amount of influence on the Republican Party. At the present time, Washington will probably seek to achieve its aims through a combination of economic sanctions, which it hopes will eventually lead a section of the army to organise a coup. However, this does not mean it would step in to prevent someone murdering Maduro, and you can be almost certain that the US had prior knowledge of this latest attack.

Hands off Venezuela!

The Venezuelan Revolution is facing many difficulties. We have been and still are extremely critical of the policies of the Maduro government, which in our opinion are disastrous and preparing the way for the oligarchys return to power. Even in the last few days, Maduro has made a number of announcements in terms of economic policy that constitute further concessions to the capitalists. But let us be absolutely clear on one point: the victory of a military coup would mean the end of the Bolivarian Revolution, a brutal austerity package to make working people pay the full price of the economic crisis and the destruction of what is left of the conquests of the revolution. This would be enforced by a generalised clampdown on democratic rights, with the aim of destroying the organisations of Venezuelan workers, peasants and the poor, crushing any potential resistance. No revolutionary activist anywhere in the world can support this, and for that reason we condemn the attack carried out on 4 August against Maduro.

Embed from Getty Images

The attempted killing of Maduro, however, also reveals a number of interesting points about the current situation in Venezuela. First of all, amongst those arrested in relation to the attack, some are linked to the August 2017 attack on the Paramacay barracks in Valencia, which was carried out by acting personnel of the armed forces and the Bolivarian National Guard. The fact that 20 years later there are still so many reactionary army officers is a clear sign that the state apparatus, though weakened and partially wrested from the control of the ruling class, is still a bourgeois state apparatus. This is something President Hugo Chavez explained clearly in his last speeches, when he insisted that the bourgeois state apparatus must be pulverised. The idea that somehow the army in Venezuela is qualitatively different than in other Latin American countries or that, as a whole, it is loyal to the Bolivarian Revolution, is false.

Of course, the Venezuelan army came under the influence of the revolution. However, this has not fundamentally changed its structures or chain of command. As such, the army has not really undergone a qualitative transformation. The further down you go, amongst rank-and-file soldiers and NCOs, you will find a deeper reservoir of support for the Bolivarian Revolution. The further up you go, the higher the number of officers whose loyalty has been bought by perks, corruption and privileges derived from their positions in the state bureaucracy.

Secondly, according to official sources, some of those arrested had been jailed for their part in terrorist activities during the 2014 opposition riots and were only recently released as part of the measures taken by Maduro after the 20 May presidential election in an attempt to appease the opposition. These measures caused uproar amongst the chavista rank-and-file as none of those released had repented or apologised for their actions, which had caused loss of life. Now they have continued with their terrorist activities. This is a pattern that has repeated itself in Venezuela since 2002. The leniency and appeals for national reconciliation are always responded to by the reactionary opposition with renewed coup plotting and more terrorism. Nothing has been learned.

Defend the Bolivarian Revolution!

The reason for the continued intrigues of the opposition is to be found in their profoundly reactionary character and how frightened they are of the Bolivarian Revolution. The workers and poor got the idea that they were in power, that they could rule. This idea must be stamped out before the ruling class can feel safe and firmly in the saddle again. The only way the government can reconcile itself with the opposition is to carry out this task. Anything short of that, and the plots will continue.

Furthermore, if the situation of economic collapse continues and deepens (and so far it shows no signs of abating), it will lead to more widespread protests and generalised collapse in infrastructure. This in itself will be a factor pushing sections of the army officers in the direction of a coup, as they realise their own privileges are no longer safe under the status quo. A coup could be waged, even by some who identify as Bolivarian loyalists, under the guise of needing a strong hand at the helm to deal with the economy, passing power to a technocratic government to deal with the crisis.

To fend off a military coup, it is necessary to build a revolutionary alternative that is firmly rooted in the left wing of the chavista rank-and-file / Image: public domain

There is, of course, a way to deal with this situation once and for all, or at least a way that would weaken the coup plotters and reactionaries. The revolution must be completed, with the expropriation of the capitalists, bankers and landowners, in order to bring about a democratically planned economy under workers control. That must be accompanied by the abolition of the old capitalist state (which still remains, though weakened) and its replacement by workers power, in the form of workers committees, workers and peasants self-defence organisations and the Bolivarian militia. These should be transformed from an auxiliary force, subordinate to the main body of the armed forces, to the backbone of a revolutionary army.

Maduros government has repeatedly shown that its policy is precisely the opposite of these measures. For that reason, it is necessary to build a revolutionary alternative that is firmly rooted in the left wing of the chavista rank-and-file, based on a clear, revolutionary, socialist programme of abolishing capitalism. This should be accompanied with an appeal to the workers and poor in Latin America and the whole world to follow by example.
SPRINGFIELD -- Baystate Children's Hospital tells families and especially moms whose newborns suffer symptoms of opioid withdrawal:

"You are the most important person in your baby's recovery."

And since January 2017, Baystate Children's Hospital, part of Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, has backed that up that statement by providing its Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Rooming-In program. It's four hospital rooms where recovering babies, mothers and family live 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Mother and baby get the medical treatment they need to beat opioids like heroin while cuddling and bonding like a new family is supposed to, Baystate officials explained Tuesday.

Funded with a $250,000 grant from the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission, Baystate's rooming-in program has shortened average hospital stays for drug-dependent newborns from 19 days in the neonatal intensive care unit to 13.4 days in rooming-in, said Karen Ricci, clinical research coordinator in newborn medicine.

What's more, babies in the rooming-in program need less medication and are more likely to breast feed, Ricci said. The positive outcomes add up to a savings, per baby, of $53,000. It costs $67,0000 to keep a baby in the NICU and just more than $14,000 for rooming-in, Ricci said.

"It's tender loving care, right?" said Dr. Rachana Singh, medical director of the ICU nurseries. "Who is better to take care of these babies but their mothers? It's better if the mothers can be there with them 24/7. They can sleep in the same room with their babies."

In the neonatal intensive care unit, babies have volunteer cuddlers who hold them. But its not the same as skin-to-skin contact.

Singh said while rooming in, the mothers learn to care for their babies just as they would if they were able to take their children home.

"Of course he is crying. Pick him up and hold him. He'll settle down," Singh said. "If he's alone in a cradle he will scream his head off."

Singh and her colleagues explained the program, which is unique in Massachusetts to Baystate, to reporters, visiting staff from the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission, and state Sen. James Welch, D-West Springfield, and state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez, D-Springfield.

To qualify, mothers must be in treatment for their opioid use and not be using illicit street drugs. They are on medications, like methadone, to help them recover.

They must remain with their babies all the time except if they need to leave the room or hospital for treatment.

Mothers provide routine care, like diapering and bathing, just as they would at home. Baystate tells mothers to hold their babies with skin-to-skin contact as much as possible.

Rooming-in is not an option for babies in state custody.

The rooming-in hospital rooms are kept dark and quiet to soothe the babies. That's unlike the neonatal intensive care unit or even nurseries where lights are bright, people come and go and machines beep incessantly.

Singh said the prognosis for the babies is good. They can develop well physically and intellectually. But they are flagged for special intervention and education services up until about age 2.

Singh said Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield does something similar, but not exactly like what Springfield does.

The grant came from a $3 million pool of state grant money, said David Seitz, executive director of the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission.

Singh said rooming-in is now a part of Baystate's regular treatment services and is no longer a pilot program. This means it will continue, funded by Baystate, after the grant money runs out.

The four rooms are not always filled, Ricci said. Because Baystate doesn't know how many families will need the service at a given time, it is hard to staff the program or do much planning.
A woman told police she was sexually assaulted by a man at a public beach in South Boston early Tuesday morning.

Massachusetts State Police are investigating after a woman reported she was raped near the Carson Beach bathhouse, a public area with changing stations, restrooms and showers.

State police say a preliminary investigation has revealed that a group of people, "most likely members of the homeless community," were gathered near the bathhouse in the early morning hours. The female victim told police that at around 4:30 a.m., she was raped by one of the men in the group.

Someone walking by saw the reported victim "in distress" shortly before 6 a.m. and called state police. Troopers responded to scene around 6:10 a.m., according to a statement.

The reported victim was transported by emergency responders to Boston Medical Center, where she is undergoing examination.

State police believe the sexual assault suspect fled the scene before the victim's report. A spokesman said they are working on developing a description of the suspect.
Massachusetts State Police released a video of a collision between and a bicycle and a car Monday morning in Boston in hopes of finding the driver.

Boston police notified state police about a bicyclist struck by a car at Centre Street at the Arborway in Jamaica Plain around 9:13 a.m. Monday.

The 20-year-old Boston woman riding the bicyclist was taken to a nearby hospital. Her injuries are not life-threatening.

Authorities identified the vehicle as a small, red, four-door car, which appears to be a hatchback.

Anyone with information is asked to call the state police Milton barracks at 617-698-5840.
The "American Pickers" have found a piece of rock and roll history right here in Western Massachusetts.

In a recent episode of the History channel hit, the duo of Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz made their way to Massachusetts after receiving a tip that the original tour van of the legendary rock group Aerosmith was sitting on a property in Chesterfield.

Apparently, the van was on the property when the current owner, only identified as Phil, purchased the land a few years back. The pickers showed up in Chesterfield and met the owner, who told them the original owner of the van had a connection to the property, but he didn't have many details beyond that.

The pickers called a member of The Black Keys, who connected them with Joe Perry, lead guitarist of Aerosmith, which formed in Boston in 1970. Perry connected them with Ray Tabano, a guitarist and founding member of Aerosmith, who just happened to be in Stockbridge at the time.

He drove out to Chesterfield and confirmed this was indeed the band's original touring van.

"It certainly looks like it. Oh my goodness gracious," Tabano said. "I'm afraid to say how long it is, but it's been like 40 years since we were in this thing. It was like a touring hotel... This is definitely the van. You found it."

The van, a 1960s International Harvester Metro Van, was purchased by the pickers for a cool $25,000.

"We just got a piece of American rock and roll history," exclaimed Wolfe. "If you had the opportunity to buy one of the biggest and most iconic pieces of rock and roll history for $25,000- hell yes you would."

American Pickers is a documentary series that explores the world of antique 'picking' on the History channel. The hit show follows Mike and Frank, two of the most skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America's most valuable antiques. As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, they are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics.

Check out the full episode here, but note you must have a cable TV login.
A Massachusetts man is facing charges for allegedly luring two girls to a tent in the woods, plying them with alcohol, and discussing sex acts.

The Telegram & Gazette reports that 46-year-old William Ahearn, of Barre, was held on $50,000 bail after pleading not guilty Monday to charges including indecent assault and battery on a person 14 or younger, enticing a child under 16, and procuring liquor for a person under 21.

Prosecutors say Ahearn was charged after the mother of one teen found messages of a sexual nature from him on her daughter's cellphone Saturday.

Police found the tent about 100 yards from a camper in which Ahearn lived.

Ahearn's attorney sought lower bail saying his client has not worked in some time and recently had a heart attack.
A teacher at Brewster's Stony Brook Elementary School has been indicted on over a dozen criminal charges for allegedly raping two first grade boys, the Cape Cod Times reports.

Noah Campbell-Halley, 36, was first arrested in March, after Brewster Police received tips from parents at the school that he had been sexually inappropriate with their children.

Campbell-Halley was originally charged with two counts of child rape, three counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14 and one count of witness intimidation, according to the Times.

But further investigation has led to grand jury indictments on additional charges, the Times reported. He is now facing five counts of aggravated rape of a child, eight counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14, two counts of witness intimidation and one count of assault and battery on a child in Barnstable Superior Court.

Two first grade boys told investigators that Campbell-Halley would take them to a "dark room" near the computer lab where he would sexually assault them, the Times reported.

And it is not the first time Campbell-Halley has been investigated for alleged child molestation. Eastham police investigated an allegation that he had assaulted a 4-year-old in 2010 while working at a preschool program, the Times reported, but police have said there was not enough evidence to charge him.

After the March report, police quickly notified school administrators, who worked to ensure student safety while police investigated the claim, police wrote in a Facebook post at the time. Officers conducted interviews with the potential victims, gathered evidence and secured a warrant for Campbell-Halley's arrest.

Last year, Campbell-Halley received a grant from the The Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank's Charitable Foundation Trust to teach coding and robotics to kindergarteners through second graders.

He has been on administrative leave from the school since March 19, the Times reported.
Four inmates sit silently in the library of the Franklin County House of Correction one summer morning. But these men aren't here to read books.

Under the supervision of a nurse and two corrections officers, they're taking their daily dose of buprenorphine. The drug, often known by the brand name Suboxone, is meant to control their heroin cravings and is commonly smuggled into jails and prisons.

"Suboxone for me is literally a Band-Aid," said inmate George Ballentine, 26, after he completes the carefully regulated ritual that includes crushing up the medication, placing it under the tongue to dissolve for 15 minutes, rinsing and then spitting into a sink. "When you get a cut, what do you do? You put a Band-Aid on until it heals enough to take it off."

Scenes like this could be the future at more jails and prisons, as resistance from corrections officials long skeptical of the efficacy and high cost of administering opioid addiction medications appears to be loosening.

Some 300 of the nation's roughly 3,200 or jails and 1,900 prisons now offer some form of addiction medication to select inmates, according U.S. Department of Justice data.

About 290 are offering a relatively new monthly injection of naltrexone known as Vivitrol to inmates shortly before they're released, with many using free samples of the roughly $1,000 injection provided by drugmaker Alkermes, a company spokesman said.

Only about 30 facilities widely offer the two other more proven federally approved medications for opioid addiction treatment -- methadone and buprenorphine -- but those numbers are growing, said Andrew Klein, a criminal justice analyst who has been tracking the programs.

Correction facilities in Illinois, Ohio, New Jersey and Washington state recently launched buprenorphine programs, joining New York City's Rikers Island, Bernalillo County jail in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and a handful of others that have provided methadone to certain inmates for years, he said.

Franklin County, where 40 percent of its 220 inmates say they've used heroin, is so far the only correctional facility in Massachusetts widely offering buprenorphine. But state lawmakers this week approved legislation requiring medication-assisted opioid treatment at certain jails and prisons.

Neighboring Rhode Island and Vermont are already offering all three opioid addiction medications across its jails and prisons while Connecticut, which provides methadone at five of its facilities, is weighing a similar expansion, as is New York .

And Los Angeles County, with one of the world's largest jail systems, is also preparing to widely offer buprenorphine and methadone.

"Jails are really America's ground zero for the opioid crisis," said Ed Hayes, an assistant superintendent at the Franklin County Sheriff's Office, which oversees the jail. "It's the perfect opportunity to make a public health intervention."

Corrections officials have been slow to embrace addiction medications because many view them as simply substituting reliance on one drug for another. They also want the federal government to reimburse facilities for the costs.

But reluctance is starting to fade with newer medications and more scientific evidence, said Elizabeth Gondles, of the American Correctional Association, a trade organization that accredits jails and prisons.

"We understand this is a public health crisis," she said. "We know what we need to do. We just need the resources."

The legal system could also end up forcing the industry's hand. The American Civil Liberties Union recently sued correctional institutions in Maine and Washington state, arguing they're violating the Americans with Disabilities Act by not providing the medications, and the U.S. Department of Justice has been investigating Massachusetts along similar lines.

Since introducing buprenorphine two years ago, the Franklin County jail has treated roughly 240 inmates at a cost of about $12,500 per inmate per year.

Sheriff Christopher Donelan notes that the county saw a 35 percent drop in opioid overdose deaths from 2016 to last year and suspects the jail program may be at least partly behind it. He is seeking funding for a formal study.

Proponents note there's years of research supporting the approach, including an April study that found Rhode Island's corrections program contributed to a 12 percent reduction in the state's fatal overdoses in the first half of 2017 compared with the same period in 2016.

Much of Franklin County's costs are for staff critical to the program's success, including those screening incoming inmates and others providing behavioral health counselling and post-release case management, said Hayes, the assistant superintendent.

"This is not a magic pill," he said. "It works only when these other elements are in place."

For Ballentine, the Franklin County inmate released soon after taking his daily medication last week, that personal attention was critical.

He had been hospitalized for three overdoses in as many months before his arrest for violating a restraining order and had every intention of using heroin once he got out of jail.

"The staff here decided not to give up on me even when I decided that I wasn't worth it," Ballentine said shortly before being released following his nine-month stint.

With his re-entry case worker at his side, Ballentine immediately checked in with his parole officer, picked up his buprenorphine prescription at a pharmacy and settled into a halfway home near the jail.

A week later, he reports his doctor hopes to soon take him off the medication he'd been on for about two months in jail.

"I feel like I'm ready for it," Ballentine said, citing volunteer work at a soup kitchen and other activities with others in recovery. "I've got backup plan after backup plan. I know it's no guarantee of success, but I'm doing everything possible."

___

Follow Philip Marcelo at twitter.com/philmarcelo. His work can be found at https://www.apnews.com/search/philip_marcelo
Massachusetts marijuana regulators are considering additional retail licenses at their meeting in Boston this week.

But the agenda for Thursday's meeting, posted Tuesday, does not include a vote on a license for a testing lab, which is necessary for legal marijuana sales to occur because the products must be tested.

The three entities hoping to walk away Thursday with retail licenses, on a provisional basis, are Pharmacannis Massachusetts Inc., M3 Ventures Inc. and I.N.S.A. Inc.

Pharmacannis Massachusetts is looking to open a retail pot shop in Wareham. M3 Ventures is seeking to open one in Plymouth, and I.N.S.A. wants to open theirs in Easthampton.

M3 Ventures and I.N.S.A. are also looking for cultivation and manufacturing licenses, which are up for approval on the Thursday agenda of the five-member Cannabis Control Commission, alongside the retail licenses.

Pharmacannis has a medical marijuana dispensary in Wareham, while M3 Ventures has dispensaries in Plymouth and Mashpee. I.N.S.A. has dispensaries in Springfield and Easthampton.

As of July 26, members of the Cannabis Control Commission have signed off on provisional retail licenses for Cultivate in Leicester, as well as retail licenses for New England Treatment Access (NETA) in Northampton and Brookline, and Alternative Therapies Group in Amesbury.

The commission had initially aimed for July 1 as the date for the start of legal marijuana sales in Massachusetts, but retail pot shops remain weeks away from opening, at the very least.

The 2016 law broadly legalizing marijuana allows for home-growing and gifting of marijuana.

Massachusetts voters approved marijuana for medical use in 2012, though the first medical dispensaries didn't open until after June 2015.

The Cannabis Control Commission's meeting is scheduled for Thursday at 1 p.m. at 101 Federal Street in Boston.
NORTH ADAMS - It was supposed to be a practical joke played on a neighbor but the North Adams police aren't laughing.

And in the end, Michael Dargie would be hoisted by his own petard - err, glitter bomb.

Dargie, 66, is charged with use of a hoax device or substance, disorderly conduct and disturbing the peace. He denied the charges Monday in Northern Berkshire District Court, according to the Berkshire Eagle.

According to Massachusetts law, a hoax device is any pretend bomb or any fake biological, chemical or nuclear device that is intended to cause someone else to have "anxiety, unrest, fear or personal discomfort"

The hoax device in this case was a glitter bomb, a spring-loaded cardboard tube designed to launch of cloud of colorful particles toward whoever opens it. Dargie purchased it online from an Indiana-based company called Pranks Anonymous, and had it delivered to the neighbor in May.

A typical spring-loaded glitter bomb in action via GIPHY

But instead of opening it when it came in the mail, the neighbor became suspicious and brought it to the town police station on May 17.

The police, having their own suspicions, evacuated the police station until the device could be checked out, first by firefighters with thermal imaging equipment and then by the state police bomb squad. When the bomb squad confirmed it was just a glitter bomb, police were allowed to re-enter the station.

Police were able to track the device to Pranks Anonymous and then to Dargie.

The Eagle reports another charge of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon was dismissed before the arraignment.

He was released without bail and is due back in court on Sept. 28.
One woman's car crash in Cohasset serves as a good public service announcement: beware driving with flip-flops.

A 67-year-old woman from Scituate was cited for negligent operation of a motor vehicle in the parking lot of a Shaw's after driving over a curb and onto two other cars. The incident happened around 5:30 p.m. on Monday.

Photos shared by Cohasset Police show the car, a 2016 Honda Pilot, airlifted, with its front two tires parked on the hoods and windshields of two other cars.

According to Cohasset Police, the woman said her foot and flip-flop got stuck on the gas pedal and she lost control of the car.

Several cars were damaged and towed following the incident, though no injuries were reported.
SPRINGFIELD -- Justin Webber, 24, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter Monday in the fatal shooting of John K. White.

Hampden Superior Court Judge Mark D. Mason sentenced Webber, of Springfield, to 12 to 14 years in state prison.

Webber admitted shooting White, 38, as White left his home in Indian Orchard about 5:20 p.m. on June 16, 2013, to investigate a disturbance involving 15 to 20 people.

Webber also pleaded guilty to carrying a firearm without a license.

He has 1,306 days credit on his sentence for days spent in jail awaiting trial.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Matthew W. Green. Webber was represented by Donald W. Frank, who took over the case in June 2016.
SPRINGFIELD -- A proposal to build a bicycle-pedestrian trail in the McKnight Neighborhood, discussed for more than 20 years, has taken a significant step forward as the city has advertised for an engineer for the preliminary design stage.

"I'm thrilled," said Elizabeth Stevens, chairwoman of the McKnight Rail Trail Committee. "I don't want to be overconfident, it's not a done deal. But I feel that before I die, I will be walking on that trail and riding my bike on that trail."

Stevens said she is 69, and has been advocating for the bikeway for approximately 15 years, with others advocating before that time.

The first phase of the bikeway is about 1.5 miles long, and the cost, including design and construction, is estimated at $4.5 million. Construction alone is estimated at $3.5 million.

The project is approved by the state, but will need final approval of state and federal funds.

As proposed, the bikeway will run along a former Highland rail line, beginning on Armory Street at Agnew Street and ending at the Rebecca Johnson School on Catharine Street.

Proposals are due Aug. 29, at 2 p.m., at the Office of Procurement at City Hall. The cost for the initial design phase has a cap of $300,000, the city's request for proposals stated.

Stevens and Mayor Domenic J. Sarno said the project will be very beneficial to the neighborhood and to the city, aiding exercise, good health, and the environment.

"I'm very happy for the McKnight Neighborhood and biking enthusiasts," Sarno said. "They have been very excited about this."

Stevens said neighborhood residents have been very supportive of the project. She also praised Sarno and representatives of city departments for being supportive.

There was a large community meeting in the neighborhood in April, and a meeting with city officials in June, Stevens said.

Stevens said similar projects in other communities have track records of promoting health, getting people out to enjoy nature, and creating economic benefits such as new businesses along the route.

"It does cost a lot of money to build the trail but the benefit to the community is tremendous and lasts for years and years," Stevens said.

The engineering firm hired "shall develop all the necessary design plans, specifications, estimates," and other work, while working with the city's Department of Public Works, the Parks Department, neighborhood civic association, and Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, the city said.

The design work will include addressing issues such as roadway and intersection improvements, traffic and pedestrian flow adjustments, landscape improvements, lighting improvements, bridge and culvert work, the city said.

The city had hired a company, Weston & Sampson, for a feasibility study of the multi-use trail in 2014. The study and recommendations will be reviewed and incorporated in the design phase, the city said.

The preliminary design will be forwarded for consideration by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation prior to final design, the city said.
A major water main break that flooded the Greendale section of Worcester has now been isolated, city officials say.

Shortly after 3 p.m., there was a water main break on the 24-inch, 1955 water main on Shores Street at Shore Drive, according to a city spokesman.

About an hour after the break was discovered, the main was isolated for repair and water was restored.

For residents who lost water pressure, it may take several hours for pressure to build in the system and return to normal, the city said.

Residents could experience rusty water into the night.

"We appreciate your patience as water service is safely returned to normal throughout the City," the spokesman wrote in a statement.

Please avoid the Greendale area of the City due to a large water main break, including Shore Dr, Norton Dr, W Boylston Dr & Rt 12 North and South @TweetWorcester  Worcester EM (@WorcesterEM) August 7, 2018
BOSTON -- The three Republicans seeking to unseat U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, will go head-to-head Tuesday in their first debate ahead of next month's primary election.

State Rep. Geoff Diehl, longtime political operative Beth Lindstrom and Winchester businessman John Kingston will take part in a noon debate that will be broadcast live on Boston Herald Radio's "Battenfeld" show.

The hour-long debate is expected to focus on an array of issues, including President Donald Trump, taxes and foreign policy, according to the Boston Herald.

The event will come just weeks before Massachusetts voters head to the polls for the state's Sept. 4 primary election.

The winner of the GOP primary will face off against Warren, a high-profile progressive leader and oft-rumored 2020 presidential contender, in the November general election.

A June Suffolk University Political Research Center/Boston Globe poll suggested that Republican looking to unseat Warren could face an uphill challenge, with the incumbent Democrat holding a double-digit advantage over all three GOP candidates.

The survey also found that all three challengers struggle with name recognition among voters, with about six in 10 respondents saying they've "never heard" of them.
Boston Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers (left hamstring strain) went 1-for-4 with a solo home run and RBI groundout in a rehab game for Short Season Lowell on Monday.

He helped Lowell win 11-3 over Vermont.

Devers homered in the sixth inning. He played six innings in the field as expected.

Devers is eligible to return from the 10-day disabled list Wednesday (tomorrow). He will fly to Toronto on Tuesday morning.

The Red Sox begin a three-game series in Toronto against the Blue Jays on Tuesday.

Devers is slashing .245/.295/.425/.721 with 15 homers, 21 doubles and 52 RBIs in 96 games.
The cell isolation market is expected to gain prominence over the forecast period (20182023). It is estimated that the cell isolation market is expected to grow at a CAGR ~17.8 % during the forecast period of 20182023.

Cell isolation is the process of separating individual living cells from a cluster of tissue or cell suspension. It may be used for volume reduction of blood components, recovery of mononucleated cells from cord blood, the concentration of bone marrow, and other cell isolation applications.

Get Sample Copy @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/6193

The market growth is mainly attributed to the increasing prevalence of cancer and infectious diseases and rising government funding for cell-based research. For instance, in 2015, the National Institutes of Health invested around 1,429 million USD for stem cells research. Moreover, technological advancements, growing research on personalized medicine and increasing demand for biopharmaceuticals is likely to contribute to the market growth during the forecast period. Despite the drivers, the high cost of cell isolation systems and complex cell behavior characteristics restrains the growth of the market.

Company Profiles

Beckman Coulter (Subsidiary of Danaher Corporation)

Becton, Dickinson, and Company

GE Healthcare (A Fully Owned Subsidiary of General Electric Company)

Merck KGaA

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

Miltenyi Biotec

Pluriselect Life Science

Stemcell Technologies Inc.

Terumo Bct (A Subsidiary of Terumo Corporation)

Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.

Segmentation

The cell isolation market is segmented on the basis of product, cell type, technique, application, and end-user.

On the basis of the product, the market is classified as consumables and instruments. The consumables are further classified as reagents, kits, media, and sera, beads, disposables. The instruments are segmented into centrifuges, flow cytometers, magnetic-activated cell separation, and filtration system. The magnetic-activated cell separator system is further classified into manual magnetic-activated cell separator systems and automated magnetic-activated cell separator systems.

On the basis of cell type, the market is segmented into human cells and animal cells. The human cells are further segmented into differentiated cells and stem cells.

The cell isolation market on the basis of the technique is segmented as centrifugation-based cell isolation, surface marker-based cell isolation, and filtration-based cell isolation.

On the basis of the application, the market is segmented into biomolecule isolation, cancer research, stem cell research, tissue regeneration, in vitro diagnostics, and therapeutics.

On the basis of the end-user, the market is segmented as research laboratories and institutes, hospitals and diagnostic laboratories, cell banks, biotechnology and biopharmaceutical companies.

Geographically, cell isolation market has been segmented into America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa. The Americas cell isolation market is further segmented into North America, and South America. North America is further classified as the US and Canada.

The European cell isolation market is segmented into Western Europe and Eastern Europe. Western Europe is further classified as Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, and the Rest of Western Europe.

The Asia-Pacific cell isolation market is segmented into Japan, China, India, Republic of Korea, Australia, and the Rest of Asia-Pacific.

The Middle Eastern and African cell isolation market is segmented into the Middle East and Africa.

Regional Market Summary

The American region is expected to dominate the cell isolation market, owing to the existing well-established healthcare system, increasing prevalence of cancer cases, increasing government funding in research, and technological advancements. According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2016, around 1,685,210 new cases of cancer had been diagnosed in the US Furthermore, the increasing cancer care expenditure in the United States is likely to drive the market growth. For instance, in 2017, the US Department of Health and Human Services estimated 147.3 billion USD national expenditures for cancer care.

Europe is anticipated to hold the second position in the cell isolation market. It is expected that the government support towards research & development expenditure and rising prevalence chronic diseases such as cancer is likely to drive the European cell isolation market. According to the Cancer Research UK, in 2012, 14.1 million cases of cancer were diagnosed all over the world, and 8.2 million died due to cancer. It also projected that the number of cancer patients is expected to reach 23.6 million in 2030.

The Asia-Pacific cell isolation market consists of countries namely China, Japan, Republic of Korea, India, and Australia. The market growth is mainly driven by rapidly expanding biopharmaceutical industries in the region and rising government funding in life sciences sector. Moreover, countries like India and China have established research institutes promoting cell-based research which contributes to the market growth.

The Middle East & Africa holds the lowest share of the global market due to low development, lack of technical knowledge, and poor medical facilities.

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1. Report Prologue

Chapter 2. Market Introduction

2.1 Definition

2.2 Scope Of The Study

2.2.1 Research Objective

2.2.2 Assumptions

2.2.3 Limitations

Chapter 3. Research Methodology

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Primary Research

3.3 Secondary Research

3.4 Market Size Estimation

Chapter 4. Market Dynamics

4.1 Drivers

4.2 Restrains

4.3 Opportunities

4.4 Challenges

4.5 Macroeconomic Indicators

4.6 Treatment Trends & Assessment

Chapter 5. Market Factor Analysis

5.1 Porters Five Forces Analysis

5.1.1 Bargaining Power Of Suppliers

5.1.2 Bargaining Power Of Buyers

5.1.3 Threat Of New Entrants

5.1.4 Threat Of Substitutes

5.1.5 Intensity Of Rivalry

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Global Diabetes Drugs Market  Overview

The global diabetes drugs market is growing with a swift phase; mainly due to increase in patient population and research and development done by market players to fill the gap of market. The WHO estimated that diabetes leads to 1.6 million deaths in 2015 and it is the major causes of blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke, and lower limb amputation.

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Increase in incidence of chronic disease owing to diabetes will drag the interest of biopharmaceutical researchers for developing effective drugs for the treatment. More than 170 diabetes drugs are in the development stage to cure diabetes or diabetes related conditions. In 2014, the cost of diabetes diagnosis was around USD 245 billion in the United States, and biopharmaceutical researchers are focusing to find new lifesaving and life-changing treatments.

Global Diabetes Drugs Market  Scenario

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which the body glucose level is elevated. There are two type of diabetes namely type-1 diabetes and type-2 diabetes. During last decade there is a tremendous increase in the number of diabetic population. According to International Diabetes Federation, in 2016, it was estimated that 420 million adult population were suffering from diabetes which is increasing at the rate of 8.4% and is expected to reach 625 million by 2040. A number of different types of drugs are available in the market however, no available treatment can cure diabetes totally. However, cost issues, strict regulatory rules and long approval time for drugs may led to restrain the growth of the market.

The global Diabetes Drug Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.2% during forecasted period 2017-2023.

Global Diabetes Drugs Market  Key Players

The major player in the global diabetic drug market are Eli Lilly (US), Novo Nordisk (Denmark), Abbott (US), AstraZeneca (UK), Biocon (US), Sunpharma (India), Sanofi (France), Novartis (Switzerland), Merck & Co. (US), Pfizer (US), Daiichi Sankyo (Japan), Boehringer Ingelheim (Germany), Akros Pharma (US), Amgen (US), Adocia (France), Peptron (South Korea), Takeda (Japan).

Global Diabetes Drugs Market  Segmentation

The global diabetes drug market is segmented on the basis of types, route of administration, drug class, and end users.

On the basis of types, the market is segmented into type-1 diabetes and type-2 diabetes.

On the basis of route of administration, the market is segmented into oral, intravenous and other.

On the basis of drug class they are insulin, sensitizers, SGLT-2 inhibitors, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, secretagogues, peptide analogs and others. Sensitizers are sub segmented into thiazolidinediones and biguanides. Secretagogues are further segmented into sulfonylureas and non-sulfonylureas

On the basis of end users, the market is segmented into hospital & clinics, ambulatory clinics and other.

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Global Diabetes Drugs Market  Regional Analysis

America dominates the global diabetes drug market owing to large diabetic patient population. According to the WHO, in 2016, 9.6% of total America population were suffering from diabetes. In addition to this, increasing number of obese people, changing lifestyle and increasing healthcare expenditure have boosted the growth of the market in America. Increasing cholesterol level and smoking increases the possibility of causing diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2014), 73.5 million adults in the US had diagnosed with high cholesterol level.

Europe accounts for the second largest diabetes drug market, which is followed by Asia Pacific. Huge smoking population, availability of funds for research, and government support for research & development will drive the market in Europe.

Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region for the market due to the presence of a huge patient population, continuously developing economies, and increasing need for the better treatment.

On the other hand, the Middle East & Africa has the least share in the global diabetes drug market due to presence of poor economy especially in Africa region. Middle East holds the major share in the Middle East & Africa diabetes drug market owing to well-developed healthcare sector and huge healthcare expenditure.

MAJOR TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Chapter 1. Report Prologue

Chapter 2. Market Introduction

2.1 Definition

2.2 Scope Of The Study

2.2.1 Research Objective

2.2.2 Assumptions

2.2.3 Limitations

Chapter 3. Research Methodology

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Primary Research

3.3 Secondary Research

3.4 Market Size Estimation

Chapter 4. Market Dynamics

4.1 Drivers

4.2 Restrains

4.3 Opportunities

4.4 Challenges

4.5 Macroeconomic Indicators

Major TOC Continued!

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Middle East and Africa Surgical sutures Market  Overview

The Middle East and Africa surgical sutures market are rising with a moderate rate; mainly owing to increase in patient population. According to update report of World Health Organization, In South Africa an estimated USD 26 million is spent annually for the care of burns from a kerosene cook stove incidents. Also report suggest that females are slightly higher burns in comparison to male. Increasing consumer awareness about the benefits associated with surgical sutures, increasing the demands Middle East and Africa.

Companies are continually inventing new products to capture the market of the Middle East and Africa. Thus, major players invest more in research and development activity, in order to lead the Middle East and Africa market. In this regards, Ethicon Inc., in 2017, launched PROXISURE suturing device designed to improve precision in minimally-invasive surgery.

This invention help company to establishing a new standard of excellence in laparoscopic suturing and also to treat patients in wound closure. Companies are investing more into research and development in order to develop quality and advance products, which help them to lead the Middle East and Africa market.

Again in January 2017, Ethicon Inc., announced that it acquired Megadyne Medical Products, Inc. that develops, manufactures and markets electrosurgical tools used in operating rooms worldwide. This acquisition help company to increase the product portfolio around the world. Increasing in demand for treatment fuel the growth of surgery sutures in this region.

Middle East and Africa Surgical sutures Market  Regional Analysis

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 4.25% of children with burns have a temporary disability and 4.5% have a permanent disability. Burns is one of the leading causes of disability in low- and middle-income countries and most of the countries from this region falls under the low-income group. UAE is the largest market for surgical sutures in the entire Middle East and Africa surgical sutures market closely followed by Egypt. The rest of Africas market, especially Sub Saharan regions is, however the fastest growing market with a huge unmet medical need. World organization is more focused in order to provide funds to the countries of this region in order to improve the quality of life.

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Moreover, the government of these countries are looking support from developed and developing nation in order to get effective and advanced treatment at lower cost. Companies are also looking forward to this market owing to the huge gap between demand and supply of the patients. Thus the Middle East and Africa offer immense potential and opportunities for the surgical sutures market.

Apart from the unmet needs for treatment, second most important market driving factor are the policies of national governments and international bodies such as World health organization (WHO). For example, development and use of a global burn registry for globally harmonized data collection on burns and increased collaboration between global and national networks to increase the number of effective programs for burn prevention.

Major Points form TOC for Surgical Sutures Market Research Report  Forecast to 2022

Chapter 1. Report Prologue

Chapter 2. Market Introduction

Chapter 3. Research Methodology

Chapter 4. Market Dynamics

Chapter 5. Market Factor Analysis

Chapter 6. Global Surgical Sutures Market, By Type

Chapter 7. Global Surgical Sutures Market, By Treatment

Chapter 8 Global Surgical Sutures Market, By End User

Chapter 9. Global Surgical Sutures Market, By Region

Chapter 10. Company Landscape

Chapter 11. Company Profiles

Chapter 12. MRFR Conclusion

Chapter 13. Appendix

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Pain-related disability is a significant and costly liability to patients, leading to frustration and inability to function in day to day life. Growing geriatric population, increasing prevalence of chronic pain and growth in government initiatives to mitigate the threat of chronic pain have been instrumental in the development of the global market in recent years. Moreover, conventional drug-based therapies generally come with the threat of side effects, hence giving rise to research and development (R&D) efforts. These activities by market players aim to introduce advanced pain management options with higher efficacy and safety, thus giving birth to pain management devices.

Furthermore, MRFR observes that the healthcare industry has not just managed to elevate its performance quotient but has also come up with adequate relief mechanisms across major hospitals and healthcare centers. A fact that bodes well with the global pain management devices market. Individuals suffering from minor and major diseases or disorders are quick to resort to treatments relieving them of pain or ailments, thus, giving propelling the market growth to a large extent.

However, the global market comes along with few challenges of its own that include high cost of pain management devices. On the other hand, established market players are constantly developing their products in order to invigorate the existing market. For instance, recently, Mundipharma developed Painfocus, a revolutionary new end-to-end pain management solution that substantially increases the objectivity of pain measurement, potentially transforming how caregivers and doctors manage their patients pain.

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Pain Management Devices Market  Key Players

The various key players in the Global Pain Management Devices Market include Codman and Shurtleff, Inc. (US), Stryker Corporation (US), Hospira Inc. (US), Smiths Medical (UK), Baxter International Inc. (US), Boston Scientific Corporation (US), Medtronic Plc (US), St. Jude Medical (US), Bio-Medical Research (BMR) Ltd. (UK), Kimberly-Clark Corporation (US), DJO Global LLC (US), B. Braun Melsungen AG. (Germany) and Pain Management, Inc (US).

Industry News

Medtronic of Canada Ltd. has received a license from Health Canada for its Intellis platform. This includes the worlds smallest implantable spinal cord stimulator (SCS) for the management of few types of chronic intractable pain. Given the issues of opioid abuse prevalent in the country, it has become mandatory for Canadians to have access to new non-opioid treatment options. One of these options includes adoption of SCS that provides effective and long-term pain relief while being a treatment option for patients who are interested in trying a non-drug alternative.

Pain Management Devices Market  Segmentation

The segments of the Global Pain Management Devices Market are type and application.

The types of pain management devices are stimulators, pumps, and ablation devices. The stimulators segment is sub-segmented into neuromodulator devices and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) devices. The neuromodulator devices segment is sub-segmented into spinal cord stimulator, intrathecal pain pump, peripheral nerve stimulator, dorsal root ganglion stimulation and other. Furthermore, ablation devices segment is sub-segmented into microwave devices, cryoablation devices, and others. Pumps are sub-segmented into analgesic infusion pumps and other. Analgesic infusion pumps are sub-segmented into patient control infusion pumps, external infusion pumps, intrathecal infusion pumps and other.

By application, the global market is segmented on the basis of cancer pain, musculoskeletal pain, migraine, and others. Increased healthcare spending along with availability of reimbursement aides the growth of the cancer pain market, subsequently triggering the growth of pain management devices market as well, due to massive demand for these devices by cancer patients.

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Pain Management Devices Market  Regional Analysis

The report states that the global pain management devices market is spread across the regions of North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and Middle East and Africa.

Among all regions, North America captures the largest market for pain management devices followed by Europe. The growth of the regional market is strongly aided by huge investment and development in research and development. Lot of development and research in neurostimulation based pain management devices has also supported the regional market growth. Moreover, the healthcare industry in the region has outperformed the healthcare industries of all the other regional pockets, giving a major boost to the market growth in the region.

The Asia Pacific market, on the other hand, is growing at the fastest growth rate owing to a huge population base, steadily developing infrastructure and elevating prevalence of numerous diseases. Moreover, the continuous efforts of the governments in the region to upgrade the healthcare standards are deemed to boost the growth prospects of the market.

The Europe region observes a highly mature market in terms of revenue and size on account of favorable reimbursement, development of novel neuropathic pain management device and a large patient population base. Further, increasing cases of cancer patients, continuous technological advancements and increasing healthcare awareness along with growing healthcare expenditure in the region have marked the positive outlook of the market.

The Middle East and Africa markets go through highs and lows in terms of market progress, due to weak economic growth and lack of sophisticated healthcare infrastructure. However, the region is steadily noting market growth on account of constant efforts by the government along with massive investments by private and public firms striving to take advantage of the untapped potential of the budding market in the region.

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Market Scenario

Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra, or the tube that carries urine. It shows various symptoms such as pain while urinating and an increased urge to urinate. Additionally, burning sensation while urinating, presence of blood in the semen or urine, frequent urge and discomfort while urinating, abnormal discharge from the vagina or penis, etc. are other common symptoms. Other serious manifestation of urethritis include damage to the reproductive system, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can result in infertility, and others. The primary cause of urethritis is usually infection by bacteria, while viral infection for pre-existing sexually transmitted diseases being the secondary cause. Urethritis is also caused by mechanical or chemical damage to the urethra during treatment or catheterization. Urethritis should not be confused with urinary tract infection (UTI). Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra, while a UTI is an infection of the urinary tract and both may have similar symptoms, but often require different treatment.

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Females have a greater chance of developing urethritis than males because of the nearness of urethra to the anus, which increases the chance of microbial infection. Also mens urethras is much longer than womens. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), causative organisms associated with urethritis include Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Human papillomavirus (HPV), Herpes simplex virus (HSV), and Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and others. According to Antimicrobe, Nongonococcal bacteria caused urethritis in approximately 4 million Americans in 2015 accounting for 80% of the cases. According to Department of Health, U.K., urethritis accounts for 0.005% of hospital consulting with a high 97% of hospital consulting for urethritis requiring hospital admission. Almost 20% of hospital admissions for urethritis requires an emergency.

Rising demand for the treatment due to growing population, increasing screening, rising number of geriatrics, rising safety and success of drug treatment, the extricating nature of the pain, and others are driving the growth of the market. However, complications of treatment such as side effects, emergence of bacterial resistance to antibiotics, cost of urethritis treatment, and others may hamper the market growth.

The global urethritis market is expected to reach USD 18.0 billion by 2023 at a CAGR of ~ 8.0 % during the forecast period 2017-2023.

Key Players in the Global Urethritis Market

some of the key players profiled in the report are F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, GlaxoSmithKline, AbbVie, Johnson & Johnson, and Merck & Co., Eli Lilly and Company, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Bayer AG, and AstraZeneca plc., and others.

Segments

The global urethritis market has been segmented on the basis of types, diagnosis, drug treatment, and end user.

Based on the types, the market has been segmented as infective urethritis and nonspecific urethritis.

Based on the diagnosis, the market has been segmented as physical examination, microbial culture tests, and others.

Based on the drug treatment, the market has been segmented as pain killers, anti-bacterials, antivirals, and others.

Based on the end user, the market has been segmented as hospitals and clinics, research and academics, and others.

Regional Analysis

The Americas accounts for a significant market share owing to high expenditure on the health care, especially, of the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, the greater number of hospitalization procedures due to greater healthcare penetration in the U.S. and Canada drives the urethritis market. The high concentration of the major hospitals in the developed countries of this region coupled with good reimbursement rates are adding fuel to the market growth. The consolidation of large healthcare players in the U.S. also leads the growth of the market due to increased buying power of the healthcare players.

Europe is the second largest market in the world due to growing healthcare industry and healthcare penetration. The European market growth is led by countries such as Germany and France. Germany is expected to be the fastest growing market over the assessment period due to the large pharmaceutical industry.

Asia Pacific region is expected to grow rapidly; China and India are likely to lead this market due to the fast growing healthcare sector and large unmet needs over the forecast period. South East Asian countries such as China, India, and Malaysia are projected to contribute highly to the market growth. The growing penetration of healthcare industry in the Asia Pacific region is expected to drive the future urethritis market in the region.

Gulf nations such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE are estimated to drive the Middle East & African market. Other Middle East nations to watch out for are Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt and Iran. The African region is expected to witness a poor growth owing to poor economic and political conditions, and poor healthcare development. Other regions are expected to be laggards due to poor social development and tribal identities such as sub Saharan Africa.

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Table Of Content

1 Report Prologue

2 Market Introduction

2.1 Definition

2.2 Scope Of The Study

2.2.1 Research Objective

2.2.2 Assumptions

2.2.3 Limitations

3 Research Methodology

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Primary Research

3.3 Secondary Research

3.4 Market Size Estimation

4 Market Dynamics

4.1 Drivers

4.2 Restrains

4.3 Opportunities

4.4 Challenges

4.5 Macroeconomic Indicators

4.6 Technology Trends & Assessment

5 Market Factor Analysis

5.1 Porters Five Forces Analysis

5.2 Value Chain Analysis

5.3 Investment Feasibility Analysis

5.4 Pricing Analysis

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Request for Quotation (RFQ)

No. FY19-006-DRC-001 - PEP kits for DRC

August 6, 2018

Dear Vendor,

On behalf IMA World Health, I am kindly requesting quotation for attached list of pharmaceutical products needed for PEP kits assembly, expressed in USD, with delivery to IMA World Health office in Goma, 9, Lyn Lusi, Quartier les Volcans, GOMA, DRC.

Bidders are requested to submit an intention to bid as soon as possible after receiving the RFQ.

Any questions pertaining to this RFQ must be submitted in writing before prior to 5:00pm EST August 8, 2018. Responses to all questions received will be shared with all participating bidders by 5:00pm EST August 10, 2018. Otherwise extended, no questions will be accepted after this date. Quotes MUST be received prior to the closing date of the RFQ. No late quotes will be considered. Questions and Quotes should be submitted to: procurement@imaworldhealth.org and drcprocurement@imaworldhealth.org

Contents of this RFQ:

1. RFQ terms

2. Attachment A - Quote Specification

3. Attachment B - Vendor Certification

4. Attachment C - Quote Cover Sheet

5. Attachment D - Vendor Quote Template

6. Attachment E - Past performance

Below are applicable RFQ terms:

Quotation Validity:

Quotation should be valid for 90 days from the RFQ due date. This includes, but is not limited to, cost, pricing, terms and conditions, service levels, and all other information. If your firm is awarded the contract, all information in the RFQ and negotiation process is contractually binding.

Delivery Location and Terms:

Delivery by air to IMA World Health office in Goma per CIP INCOTERMS. The goods should be delivered in bulk, and IMA will do the kitting in country. Entire value of the offered goods must be insured until delivery.

Consignee information:

IMA World Health

14 Av Sergent MOKE,

Commune de Ngaliema,

Kinshasa, DRC

Delivery location:

IMA World Health, Goma Office

9, Lyn Lusi, Quartier les Volcans,

GOMA, DRC

IMA will require a DHL/FedEx package containing a set of all original shipping documents (packing lists, invoices, B/L or AWB, COO, COA) sent via DHL in advance of the shipment to the IMA office in Kinshasa, DRC.

Cliquez ici pour telecharger le document complet - format PDF
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, August 7, 2018

Anonymous search engine fraudsters continue to file counterfeit takedown requests with Google in an effort to sway search results.

They pose as legitimate rights holders to content and reporting agencies working on behalf of major companies and rights holders to ask Google to remove millions of URLs, according to a recent report.



Many of these links point to pirated sites, but copyright enforcement is not the main reason why they are sent, according to the report. Instead, the fraudsters are after the ability to rank content from competitors downward.

Some of the takedown requests from companies like WebControl, a Russian company, are seemly sent on behalf of more well-known companies such as Walt Disney, but the fraudsters use a variation of the name such as "Walt Disney LTD." The name change is intended to create confusion in Googles transparency report.

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"This notice states that the reported links infringe the copyrights of the film Looking Glass, which as far as we know is not linked to Disney," reports Torrentfreak, which also provides links to some of the reports from the Lumen database.

Most fraudulent requests use a variation of the companys name, but the database also shows requests for removal of online content from completely unrelated firms. For example, it shows Russian entities requesting the removal of Disney content, but the company requesting the takedown is not associated with the company that owns the content.

The problem apparently has spun out of control. Torrentfreak points to a post on Googles Webmaster Central Help Forum where rights holders flagged several problems and complain about abuse. The owner of iKinoHD.cc, for example, calls attention to abuse in descriptions and the fact that these legal URLs are indicated in a removal report and linked to a document in which they have no relation.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, August 7, 2018

Siding with Amazon, a federal appellate court has refused to revive a lawsuit centering on the retailer's search marketing practices.

The ruling, issued Monday, stems from a complaint brought by Steven Lasoff, the owner of artificial turf company Ingrass. He alleged that Amazon violated his trademark and engaged in false advertising by using the term "Ingrass" as a keyword to trigger search ads. People who clicked on those ads landed on Amazon listings for Ingrass competitors, according to the lawsuit.

Lasoff's complaint, which included claims for trademark infringement and false advertising, alleged that Amazon duped consumers into thinking that they were being shown Ingrass products, or that Ingrass had "sponsored or otherwise put its imprimatur" on the products offered for sale.

A federal district court judge in Seattle dismissed Lasoff's lawsuit last year, ruling that he hadn't proven his allegations.

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Lasoff then asked the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to revive the lawsuit. "When a potential customer searched for Ingrass on a third party search engine, it was presented with advertisements from Amazon indicating that Ingrass products were available for sale on Amazon.com when in fact they were not, and only counterfeit Ingrass products were available," he wrote in papers filed with the appellate court.

A three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit rejected Lasoff's argument this week. The judges noted that Amazon previously prevailed in a lawsuit brought by watch manufacturer Multi Time Machine, which alleged that its trademark was violated when Amazon displayed watches made by other manufacturers to people who typed "Multi Time Machine" into Amazon.com's search engine.

"We have held that Amazon is permitted to use a trademarked search term to direct consumers to competing products, as long as the search results are clearly labeled," the judges wrote. "Mr. Lasoff did not provide any evidence that the search results here were not clearly labeled."
An old problem for marijuana users was finding a reliable source. Now as cannabis or the cannabidiol derivative is legal, at least to some degree, in all but four states, an online business is growing, connecting sources, brands, producers and other kinds of vendors with each other.

Nugl is a metadata search engine and online directory for the legal marijuana industry, with a database that, according to its own business descriptions can display listings for dispensaries, strains, doctors, lawyers, service professionals, vape shops, hydro stores and brands. It started last year. Its app is downloadable from Android and Apple stores.

The expanded Nugl platform, announced today to cover all of North America, offers profiles of cannabis companies and professional services related to the business, an organized marketing website for B-to-B applications, and related consumer uses.

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That B-to-B and B-to-C route seems apt in an industry that is trying to figure out supply and demand. When users go to the site, they can get a personal account that explains, I just want to get some weed or a business account that announces, I own or operate a business that caters to the cannabis industry.

James Jordan, the companys new vice president for strategic relations, says real estate agents and accountants could hook up with fledgling cannabis companies through the site, and says it also is a way for the growing brands of strains and dispensaries to find each other. That basket of users could range from investors to brands to stereotypical potheads. The grower of a strain of marijuana might announce it via the site, while users might rate it. Members who self-describe themselves as investors could find entrepreneurs who need some funding angels.

Nugl, which is traded over the counter and means to cover the world market, knows that funding cycle well. Jordan was tapped earlier this year by Nugl CEO and founder Brandon Vargas, who grew up in the cannabis business and saw the yawning gap in information.

Nugl says its information on brands wont be biased. The Nugl app can act like Yelp, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google and other social sites as it serves purveyors and users still trying to find each other, says C.J. Melone, a consultant for the Boxy software that operates on the Firebase mobile app owned by Google parent Alphabet.

It will be really interesting to see the evolution of this app as it grows and to see how users use the tool, Melone tells Marketing Daily.

The cannabis industry has been really technology starved up to this point, he says, because the business grew from little players who werent necessarily business savvy or well financed. Its been living in the cracks because it hasnt been legal.

Now investors are charging full speed ahead. Just yesterday, William Wrigley Jr. II from the famous Chicago chewing gum company (sold in 2008), led a $65 million investment round for Surterra Wellness, a medical cannabis startup in Georgia, where he planted himself as chairman. He told Bloomberg he hopes to use his knowledge of product distribution and marketing to propel sales. Surterra for now is staying the medical end of the cannabis business. But he told the news service he expects Surterra to eventually enter the recreational business.

Altogether the legal cannabis industry took in $9.2 billion in 2017 in the United States, according to BDS Analytics. Its expected to grow to $47.3 billion in this country a decade from now.
by Nina Lentini @Nina_Lentini, August 7, 2018

Four U.S. marketing trade groups today registered their opposition to the adding of a citizenship question on the 2020 U.S. Census questionnaire.

The American Association of Advertising Agencies (4As), the American Advertising Federation (AAF), the Association of National Advertisers (ANA) and the Advertising Research Foundation (ARF) sent a joint letter to the U.S. Department of Commerce in which they said they were opposed to the new census inquiry that asks: Is this person a citizen of the United States?

We are concerned that [it] would depress response among both non-citizens and their families (even if family members are indeed citizens), the letter stated. That runs the risk of non-respondent bias by significantly undercounting immigrant, minority, and low-income populations. If immigrants and others avoid the national head-count, the census results will be flawed.



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It further addresses the impact such a question could have on the marketing industry, citing a distorted representation of population estimates and research that is benchmarked to those numbers.



It could have a particularly negative impact on media that serve multicultural communities, thecompanies which research them, and the agencies which help advertise to them. The value marketers see inthose consumer segments would be understated and investments reduced.
Sleeping more or less than 78 hours per night could be bad for your health, with too much sleep being worse than too little, say researchers. Share on Pinterest Both too much and too little sleep can lead to poor health. An analysis of pooled data from dozens of studies covering more than 3 million people finds that self-reported sleep duration outside of 78 hours each night is linked to a higher risk of death and cardiovascular diseases. The study  which scientists at Keele University in the United Kingdom led and which is now published in the Journal of the American Heart Association  found a J-shaped relationship between duration of sleep and deaths. The same relationship was observed with incidents of cardiovascular illness. The authors say that their findings suggest that sleeping for more than 78 hours may be associated with a moderate degree of harm compared with sleeping less. The J-shaped relationship showed that the size of the risk rose in line with greater duration of sleep. Sleeping for 9 hours, for example, carried a 14 percent higher risk of death, while 10-hour sleeps carried a 30 percent higher risk. The results also showed that poor-quality sleep was linked to a 44 percent higher risk of coronary heart disease. Our study, says lead study author Dr. Chun Shing Kwok, a clinical lecturer in cardiology at Keele University, has an important public health impact in that it shows that excessive sleep is a marker of elevated cardiovascular risk.

Cardiovascular diseases and events Cardiovascular disease is an umbrella term for disorders of the heart and blood vessels. The heart provides the pressure for pumping the blood through the vessels that carry it to all parts of the body. Some of the diseases overlap due to a common underlying condition. Atherosclerosis, for example, is an inflammatory condition in which plaque builds up in artery walls and restricts blood flow. This can lead to heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Heart failure, in which the heart does not pump enough blood to meet the bodys needs, is another type of cardiovascular disease. Abnormal heartbeat, or arrhythmia, and defective heart valves are also classed as cardiovascular diseases. In the United States, where 610,000 people die of it every year, heart disease is the primary cause of death in men and women. Also, every year in the U.S., around 735,000 people experience a heart attack. This number includes 210,000 people for whom it is not their first. In their analysis, the researchers focused on links between sleep, rates of death, and cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, and coronary heart disease.

Sleep duration and quality In their study paper, the researchers explain that while there appears to be growing evidence to support the idea, current guidelines for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases make limited recommendations about duration and quality of sleep. The National Sleep Foundations latest guidelines recommend 79 hours of sleep every night for adults aged 2664, and 78 hours for older people. For their study, the researchers used 78 hours as the recommendation against which to compare the various results. They note that while previous studies had examined the relationship between hours of sleep, deaths, and cardiovascular disease, they had not evaluated the effect of each hour of increase or decrease on the relationship. Also, none had evaluated the effect of sleep quality. They suggest that their findings are significant because they highlight a problem with longer as opposed to shorter sleep, and that the greater the duration of sleep, the more severe the problem appears to be. They also note that their study is the first to declare sleep quality as a risk factor for coronary heart disease and suggest that doctors should take into account nonrestorative sleep (or waking up unrefreshed) when they assess their patients.
A new study inches us a little closer to understanding the aging process, how it works on a cellular level, and how it might one day be slowed down or even stopped. Share on Pinterest Aging is mysterious, but a new study increases our understanding. Since the dawn of time, humans have wanted to live longer lives. As medical science has improved, humans have indeed extended their average lifespan. Much of this increased longevity is due to reduced levels of infant mortality, better sanitation and public health, vast improvements in the treatment of many diseases, and vaccination. Aside from the treatment and prevention of disease, many researchers are still picking away at the mechanisms beneath the aging process itself. Over time, cells slowly become less active and eventually stop dividing. These are known as senescent cells. They are partly to blame for our slow but inevitable decline as we grow older. Recently, scientists from the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom discovered a way to reverse an important aspect of aging in human cells.

Mitochondria and splicing factors The researchers were particularly interested in the activity of mitochondria, or the organelles that are famously responsible for generating a cells power. Their aim was to jump-start activity in the aging mitochondria. To do this, the scientists used samples of cells that line the inside of blood vessels, called endothelial cells. They targeted splicing factors within the mitochondria. Our genes code for more than one protein, and splicing factors help decide which product a particular gene will make at any given time. The team designed novel chemicals that specifically targeted one of two splicing factors: SRSF2 or HNRNPD. Some have previously linked these particular proteins with the cellular changes involved in aging. The scientists designed three compounds  called AP39, AP123, and RT01  which would deliver a minute dose of hydrogen sulfide gas to mitochondria. Earlier studies showed that hydrogen sulfide influences senescence , but exactly how it manages this was not known. They demonstrated that this tiny quantity of gas fires up the splicing factors, giving mitochondria a boost and thereby reducing senescence. The findings, which now appear in the journal Aging , are very encouraging. The number of senescent cells in the sample dropped by an impressive 50 percent.
A new viewpoint article published in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery exposes the harmful effects of smartphone photo filters on body image issues and mental health conditions such as body dysmorphic disorder.

Share on Pinterest The popularity of selfie filters may have negative psychological effects, new research suggests.

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition affecting 1 in 50 people in the United States.

The disorder has been classified as part of the obsessive-compulsive spectrum.

People who have the disorder can spend hours obsessing over minor or nonexistent flaws in their appearance, picking their skin, or grooming themselves.

Some of the people living with BDD have a history of unnecessary or repeated cosmetic surgeries; the disorder has been associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder, major depression, and suicidal tendencies.

Although the causes of BDD are unclear at the moment, researchers think that several factors are at play, including genetics and neurobiological issues such as a faulty processing of the neurotransmitter serotonin (also known as the happiness hormone).

Additionally, several environmental factors may also influence a persons chances of developing BDD. Life experiences such as childhood trauma or personality traits can have a bearing on BDD risk.

Now, a new viewpoint article written by researchers at the Boston Medical Center (BMC) in Massachusetts suggests that there might be an additional risk factor: selfies.
While technically you can use your beard trimmer to shave your body hair as well - do you really want to do that? Just think about it for a second. Firstly, would you want to use the same trimmer for your beard (and on your face!) that you'll be using on other (less hygienic) parts of your body? And secondly, a trimmer just cannot be as effective (or hygienic) as an electric shaver can. As such, using an electric shaver becomes a more effective, hygienic, and in some cases the ONLY way of shaving your hair. But as is the case with almost any other grooming essential, you have to keep in mind a few things before you decide on the best option for you. Think of these as basic ground rules to go by, before investing in an electric shaver.

1. Foil or rotary?: All electric shavers can basically be classified into two types - rotary or foil. Foil shavers come equipped with oscillating blades, also known as cutters, that cut your hair and give you a close shave. On the other hand, rotary shavers usually come equipped with two to three circular heads that feature an internally rotating cutter that give a smoother shave.

2. The type of facial hair you have: Do you have a stubble? Are you growing a full-fledged mane? Do you just have a moustache? Or do you prefer keeping a clean shaven look? Depending on the type of facial hair (or lack of!) you have, some electric shavers are certain to work better than others.

3. Your budget: Electric shavers tend to be slightly more expensive than regular run-of-the-mill trimmers. As such, knowing what your budget is and ensuring that you don't go overboard is essential. Fortunately, there are many premium brands out there that are curating high-end electric shavers for reasonable rates.

So with all those factors in mind and to help all our bros out there with their shaving needs, we at MensXP have compiled a list of the best electric shavers that warrant a place in your grooming kit.

Check Out The Best Electric Shavers In India That Warrant A Place In Your Grooming Kits!

1. Philips S1030/04 Electric Shaver

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As a brand curating grooming essentials for men, Philips is beloved by one and all. As such, this magnificent variant that comes equipped with an ergonomically designed grip, an aquatic wet and dry seal, self-sharpening blades, about 45 minutes of wireless usage and three directional flex heads, is an incredibly useful addition to your grooming kit. The rounded profile heads of the blades on this bad boy glide smoothly across your skin while protecting it from nicks, cuts, and other unseemly blemishes. And the icing on the cake? The two (expandable to three) years of warranty it comes with.

Pro tip: You can get up to 15 shaves on a single charge, so make sure you charge the shaver accordingly.

MRP: Rs 1,449

Buy it here

2. Andis T-Outliner

 Amazon

Not only is the Andis T-Outliner one of the most popular electric shavers in India when it comes to grooming your facial hair, it's also one of the most ideal if you want to take your grooming further north and try out a buzz cut! This professional grade shaver uses a specially hardened close-cutting T-shaped blade made of carbon and steel that's specially hardened, so it lasts longer than the average blade and will last much longer. However, the blade is easy to replace and the process doesn't cost much either, so you've definitely got a long-term investment on your hands (and face, and head) here.

Pro tip: Even though you won't have to do it regularly, a full-tune up that involves unscrewing some small screws and oiling the insides is recommended to ensure that it runs smoothly over the years.

MRP: Rs 8,412

Buy it here

3. Remington F5-5800A

 amazon

If you're looking for a high quality shaver that's budget friendly as well, the Remington F5-5800 has just the right combination of features and affordability to make it a smart choice. Its contoured handle makes it easy to grip and comfortable to use, while its manoeuvrable head and two foil areas is adept at contouring your face and reaching hard-to-shave areas. For an even closer shave, its popup trimmer allows you to trim your moustache and sideburns as closely as you want, a feature that's hard to find on such value-for-money options. A conveniently-located LED display on the handle constantly indicates the current charge level, which is another useful feature. All in all, it's a solid budget option thanks to its small size, and can be perfect as a travel shaver for business trips and holidays.

Pro tip: Remember that the Remington F5-5800 should only be used for dry shaves, as it doesn't allow for wet shaves or shaving foam or gel.

MRP: Rs 5,721

Buy it here

4. Remington TF70CDN Electric Shaver

 amazon

A safety lock that will ensure your shaver doesn't get accidently turned on when stored away for travel? Check! A built-in cleaning brush that will help you maintain and keep the foils clean? Check! Dual Foil technology that will give you a supremely comfortable shave? Check! And an integrated heat guard that'll safeguard it from overheating? Check! Loaded with features and coming with two years of warranty, this TF70CDN variant from Remington is worth every single penny.

Pro tip: The battery compartment, located at the bottom of the shaver, holds two AA's and can effortlessly slide in and out of the bottom in case you want to replace its batteries.

MRP: Rs 1,742

Buy it here

5. Wahl Professional 8061

 Amazon

If your only gripe with electric shavers is that they leave your skin red and raw, then your search for the best electric shaver for sensitive skin has come to an end. Its Dynaflex Cutting system is specifically designed to cover all areas of your face without leaving it full of cuts or skin irritations. The hypoallergenic foils on this beauty significantly reduce the chance of bacterial growth, while the long battery life is an added bonus.

Pro tip: With a battery that extends up to 60 minutes per charge, it's an ideal shaver for use on the face, head, and neckline as well.

MRP: Rs 14,827

Buy it here

6. Gillette Fusion ProGlide Styler 3-in-1 Men's Electric Shaver

 amazon

Old is gold - this proverb is true in every aspect when it comes to a brand as old (and reputable) as Gillette. This only gets reinforced by this 3-in-1 Fusion ProGlide electric shaver with Braun engineering technology that enables slim and easy maneuvering for even trimming. Equipped with advanced blades that are designed for getting crisp defined lines, it also includes three separate combs catering to different custom lengths.

Pro tip: As it comes with three separate combs catering to varying lengths of facial hair, you should make sure you equip the proper comb for your beard.

MRP: Rs 1,750

Buy it here

7. Braun Series 3 310s Electric Shaver

 amazon

This electric shaver from Braun is yet another amazing grooming appliance for men. Designed using German technology and equipped with a powerful NiMH battery with quick charging functionality and an ergonomic grip, it guarantees a clean and close shave with reduced chances for any skin irritation. We all know that the neck can be a problem area while using an electric shaver, right? No matter how carefully we go over that area, there always seems to be an annoying little patch of hair that the shaver somehow missed out. Well, that won't be a problem with this one, because its three flex heads move independently and intuitively to adapt to every facial contour, maximising skin contact and make this the ideal choice when it comes to finding the best electric shaver for neck-based grooming needs. Infused with specialised cutting elements that are pressure sensitive and protected by a powerful metal mesh called SensoFoil, it also happens to be waterproof making it useful for both a wet and dry shave.

Pro tip: It's only waterproof for up to five meters, so think a bit before you decide to use it in the shower!

MRP: Rs 3,814

Buy it here

8. Andis Profoil Lithium Titanium Foil Shaver

 Amazon

Not only does this shaver's lithium-ion battery provide 80 minutes of non stop run time on a single charge, it also comes fitted with a battery cord that means you never have to compromise on your morning shave! Despite its heavy duty battery and powerful motor, the shaver is super lightweight and quiet during use. Its staggered gold titanium hypo-allergenic foil also provides the perfect irritation-free shave, which makes it one of the best electric shavers you can buy when it comes to well-rounded options.

Pro tip: This shaver is great for dealing with facial hair, but can also be used to freshen up your fade too for when your haircut needs a quick tune up.

MRP: Rs 7,595

Buy it here

9. Braun Mobileshave M60B Shaver

 Amazon India

Certainly one of the more fancy looking electric shaver mentioned on our list, this M60B variant from Braun makes for a powerful, efficient and cost-effective option. It comes equipped with smart foil with distinct foil patterns, a twist cap that also doubles down as a handle extension for a smoother and comfortable grip. Once you're done with your shave, you can clean up using the clip-on cleaning brush and then wash the head straight away in running water. Add to all this the two years of warranty you get with your purchase, and you simply cannot do without this shaver in your grooming kit.

Pro tip: Shave according to your facial contours with its adjustable and wide floating foil.

MRP: Rs 1,795

Buy it here

10. Hatteker Professional Rotary Shaver

 Amazon

This is one of the most cost-efficient shavers on our list since it acts as a beard trimmer, facial cleansing brush, precision trimmer and nose trimmer all at once. It also has a contour-following system that adjusts seamlessly to every curve on your face and neck, while the helpful LED indicator reminds you about the battery capacity and charging status. All these features at an affordable price make it one of the most power-packed shavers on our list.

Pro tip: The whole body of this shaver is washable, making cleaning up just as easy as recharging it because it comes fitted with USB charging capabilities.

MRP: Rs 2,013

Buy it here

11. Remington XF8505 Capture Cut

 Amazon

Annoyed by those pesky hairs that somehow miraculously escape your shaver's attention no matter how carefully you shave? Well, this shaver aims to solve that problem once and for all, thanks to a variety of innovative features. The Hybrid Intercept trimmer cuts longer and low lying hair while the AccuCut blades, assisted by the PivotAssist Plus and ConstantContour technology follow facial contours with ease for a silky smooth shave.

Pro Tip: Your purchase doesn't just get you a quality shaver, the package also contains a charger stand and a handy travel pouch too, so the expense is justified.

MRP: Rs. 11,323

Buy it here

12. SweetLF 3D IPX7 Electric Shaver

 Amazon

One of the best electric shavers when it comes to versatility, this variant from SweetLF can be used for a great wet or dry shave, and works just as well with shave gel or foam. The quality of shave is superb too, thanks to the 3D floating heads that fit the curve of face and neck perfectly, and the double-track close-to-face cutter that increases the contact surface is increased and saves you having to go over one area more than once. The pop-up trimmer helps shape your moustache and sideburns as well.The shaver also boasts automatic grinding technology and self-sharpening blades along with convenient USB charging and a 5-rank power display that helps avoid low-battery mishaps.

Pro Tip: The whole body can be washed thoroughly under the tap straight after use, which is extremely convenient for those who don't have a lot of time to spare.

MRP: Rs. 5,611

Buy it here

13. Wahl Lithium Ion Plus

 Amazon

This one shaver gives you the ability to shave, cut, trim and detail your facial hair in one go. Along with no less than 12 easy to use attachment guards of varying lengths, Wahl has patented its own blade design on this beauty. The real star of the show is the Lithium Ion + technology, which gives a staggering 4 hours of run time from just one hour of charging!

The extra power enables this shaver to deliver excellent grooming solutions in an eye-catching, sophisticated stainless steel package.

Pro Tip: If you're in a rush and desperately need a shave, just 60 seconds of charging provides three minutes of run time with this shaver, just enough for a once-over on your face.

MRP: Rs. 14,827

Buy it here

14. Philips Norelco 9700 Shaver

 Amazon

If your daily grooming requirements are an extremely close shave that doesn't take a toll on your face either, then this is one of the best electric shavers out on the market right now. What makes it so special is its ergonomic grip, Contour Detect technology and the V-Track Precision Blades, that combine for a shave as close as an electric shaver can give. Each of its shaving heads moves in 8 directions, cut up to more hair in a single pass and cutting them closer than ever before. You also have the option of choosing the ideal speed according to your particular skin type and beard length, and the ability to add new attachments like trimmers and brushes elevates the grooming experience even further. The informative digital interface automatically lights up and constantly reminds you of the battery level, cleaning indicator, battery low indicator, head indicator, and travel lock.

Pro Tip: The smartclean system cleans, lubricates, dries, and charges this shaver, saving you a lot of precious time.

MRP: Rs. 63,204

Buy it here

15. Braun Series 7 790cc Men's Electric Shaver

 Amazon

Ever dreamed of a shaver that never needs to be adjusted, no matter how varied your shaving needs are? Well gentlemen, welcome to the future - the Braun Series 7 790cc uses Sonic and AutoSense technology coupled with its eight-directional flexible shaving head to determine how thick your facial hair is and deliver a clean and even shave in one pass. While its MicroMotion technology allows you to move each element of the shaving system independently across hard-to-cover areas like your neck, MacroMotion lets the head of the razor pivot up to 40 degrees so you can turn the shaver in any direction you please as you work your way across your face.

It also comes with a Clean and Charge Station with cleaning solution as well as a cleaning brush, and a travel case, which makes maintenance extremely efficient and keeps the razor effective for much longer. It's also entirely waterproof, so you can even enjoy your daily shave in the shower to save time. When it comes to the best electric shavers In India that you can purchase, how can you really improve on one that can read your mind?

Pro Tip: If you're not satisfied with the current setting, you can choose from five Turbo/Sensitive Modes to adjust the shaver for power or gentleness with a single button.

MRP: Rs. 27,429

Buy it here
The Pixel 2 launched last year and it was probably the most talked about Android flagship device then. We've been using the phone for almost a year and the smartphone hasn't let us down in any category so far.

Google released Android Pie for the device today and our experience has been enhanced even more since the update. Since its release, many notable devices like the OnePlus 6 and the Galaxy S9 have been launched, that can give the Pixel 2 some tight competition. Having said that, the Pixel 2 has a few advantages over its counterparts that make it a flagship worth owning.

This is not a knock on the OnePlus 6, as we already know it outperforms the Pixel 2 by a great margin. But not everything is about performance. Here's why we feel the Pixel 2 is still a great smartphone you can invest in today:

1. It Still Has The Best Camera

 BCCL

The Pixel 2, in our opinion, takes some of the most incredible shots with its single camera sensor. It still takes pictures today that can outmatch almost every smartphone available today. The Huawei P20 Pro comes close, but it still doesn't deliver what the Pixel 2 can do.

Pixel 2 also has the gyro-based EIS with the OIS that makes video footage look smoother and stable. The sharpness of pictures from the Pixel 2 is still king and we feel that it can only beaten by the Pixel 3 later this year. Low-Light imagery on the Pixel 2 is out of this world and is capable of capturing the minutest of details that most phones cannot.

Here are a few sample images below for your reference:

2. Android's Best Experience Is On The Pixel

The OnePlus 6 delivers a near perfect experience of stock Android, however, the Pixel smartphones always get updates before everyone else. On top of that, the Pixel also gets some exclusive features that are not available on other Android phones (for example Google's algorithm for Bokeh pictures). Services like Google Maps, Gmail, Docs, Keep are fine-tuned and deeply integrated with Pixel's OS.

If you like and have already invested in Google's ecosystem, then services like Google Home, Chromecast and Google Wi-Fi should work without any hiccups.

3. It's A Steal Right Now

 YouTube

At the time of this story, the Pixel 2 retails for Rs 53,899 on Flipkart. If you've always been wanting a smartphone that can take amazing pictures and also performs like a beast, this is probably a steal for you right now. Sure, it's a little bit more expensive than the OnePlus 6, but you do get a superior camera in return.

4. It Has Unlimited Photo Storage

 Google

The Pixel 2 may not have expandable storage, however, it does support unlimited picture storage via the Google Photos app. On every smartphone, the maximum number of storage is utilised by all the pictures you take, which often makes you want to delete memories or take a backup. Google Photos on the Pixel smartphones automatically backs up your gallery without you ever having to deal with manual labour. This in turn also leaves you extra room for storing music, comic books, games and other apps.

Not All Is Rosy Though

Even though we've stated some great things about the Pixel 2 above, every smartphone comes with caveats. First of all, the Pixel 2 does not have an imaginative design like other flagship devices. It has noticeable bezels and a bulky design when compared to the Galaxy S9 or the OnePlus 6.

 Google

The other annoying missing feature is the lack of a headphone jack. Google opted to provide water resistance and removed the headphone jack in the process. The company replaced it with stereo speakers which are a plus point if you like to watch videos with the loudspeaker on.

Having said that, if you are an audiophile, you will not enjoy the sound quality over Bluetooth which can be a major drawback. If you want to use your wired headphones, you will need to carry the supplied dongle with you everywhere and guard it with your life.

If you want to know more about why Bluetooth headphones are inferior to wired earphones/headphones, you can read our explanation here
Angela Peters(BURTON, Mich.) -- After one of her regular customers, a woman with a disability that sometimes causes her hands to shake, was refused service at a nearby nail salon, Walmart cashier Ebony Harris decided to help.



Foregoing her break, Harris, 40, offered to paint Angela Peters' nails for her. The pair picked out a shade of sparkly blue that Peters liked and sat down at the Subway seating area inside the Walmart in Burton, Michigan.



Peters said she felt happy when Harris was doing her nails and the two were talking.



"Ebony is a nice person," she told ABC News. "I enjoy conversation with her."



Peters, 36, has cerebral palsy, which can make her hands shake. She said the nail salon felt it would be too difficult to do her nails.



Harris said after she found out, she wanted to create a special day for Angela.



"I knew her from her coming in here shopping," Harris told ABC News. "Ive helped her shop a couple of times. I just wanted to do her nails and I didnt want her day to be ruined."



Peters apologized for her shaking hands as Harris painted her nails the shade of glittery blue, but Harris told her not to apologize.



In fact, Harris said she was a little unsteady herself.



"I was a little nervous and was shaking because I didnt want to mess her nails up," Harris told ABC News.



A woman who works in the Subway restaurant, Tasia Smith, saw the nail painting session. She said the act of kindness brought her to tears. She snapped a photo of Harris and Peters, posted it on her Facebook and it went viral.



"She did great, barely moved & was just so sweet," Smith wrote on Facebook. "Its an absolute shame that they denied her for something so little."



Harris said she appreciates all the attention the story has been receiving.



"I love it and it hit my soul in a very deep place," she said. "It makes me feel good, but its very overwhelming."



Both women said their main goal was to raise awareness for people with disabilities, not to punish or boycott the nail salon.



"I forgive the nail people for not doing my nails," Peters told ABC News in a statement. "When people do us wrong we must forgive, if not we harbor bitterness. I don't want anyone fired, I just [want to] educate people that people with different challenges like being in a wheelchair, we can have our own business and get our nails done like anyone else."



Harris hopes this will inspire others to treat people with disabilities in the same way they would like to be treated. She wants the focus to be "not so much being mad at the nail salon."



"We want people to look at the positive side of the story, that there are a lot of good people out here," Harris said.



Harris, Peters and Smith intend to continue their new friendship and go out to dinner sometime soon.

Copyright  2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 7)  President Rodrigo Duterte's initial plan to send a warship to rescue abducted Filipino workers in Libya won't push through. Instead, the government is sending a team led by the county's top diplomat.

"Initially, that was his course of action, but now he formed a high-level task force," Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a briefing on Tuesday.

Duterte last week said he plans to send a Navy frigate to Libya if gunmen holding Filipino hostages begin to hurt the captives, who have appealed to him for help. Three Filipino workers and a South Korean national abducted last month from their work site called on Duterte to help end their ordeal in a video that circulated online on July 31.

Roque said Duterte's Cabinet secretaries suggested to create a task force to deal with the hostage crisis instead of sending a warship to Libya.

He said it was decided the task force will be led by Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano. He will be joined by Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, and Muslim Cabinet members Special Envoy to Kuwait Abdullah Mamao and Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Adnan Alonto.

Cayetano, in a separate briefing, said Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu will also join the task force because of his "wide experience in the Middle East."

Roque said the Philippine team will coordinate with the Libyan government to free the hostages.

"The problem that complicates this latest case of kidnapping, is that the kidnappers are not state agents of Libya. They are militias who are engaged in an armed conflict also with the Libyan government. And that is why it was deemed more prudent to work with the Libyan government to see what the demands are," he said.
MIDDLETOWN  The release of the results of a much anticipated investigation into claims of gender discrimination involving Mayor Daniel T. Drew failed to occur Monday due to a legality.

Corporation Counsel Daniel B. Ryan ruled the special meeting set to receive the document was improperly noticed, did not include an opportunity for public comment, and thus was an illegal meeting.

Ryans ruling came in response to a query from Councilor Gerald E. Daley.

Councilors debated Ryans conclusion but ultimately agreed they would readvertise the meeting at a date yet to be set.

Despite the ruling, members of both parties pressed for the release of the report. But since the meeting was not legal, Ryan ruled there was no way the council could accept it.

That led to a heated after-meeting confrontation involving Deputy Majority Leader Mary Bartolotta, Daley, Minority Leader Sebastian N. Giuliano, Councilman Philip J. Pessina and the attorney who conducted the investigation.

Giuliano and Pessina braced Attorney Margaret P. Mason as she emerged from the womens restroom just outside council chambers. Giuliani angrily demanded Mason give him a copy of the report.

Pessina reiterated comments he had made during the meeting: Our integrity is at stake here!

Mason, an attorney with the firm of LeClairRyan, quietly stood her ground, saying her integrity, too, had come under attack through a rash of innuendo and emails. But Mason said she would wait until the next meeting to present the report with an explanation of how she conducted the investigation and present it in context.

When Giuliani persisted in demanding Mason hand over the report: I want it now!  Bartolotta flashed anger in telling the councilors to stop badgering Mason.

We cannot lower ourselves, she said.

Mason took that opportunity to excuse herself and exit City Hall.

Looking on but saying nothing or displaying any emotion was Drew. In January, the council voted unanimously to engage an outside agency or law firm to investigate a claim that Drew had intervened to block a raise for the school departments female human resources officer.

Three other employees did receive raises.

When Michele DiMauro did not receive what she felt was an adequate raise, she charged the mayor with gender discrimination. Drew contends DiMauro was offered a one-step raise but demanded a two-step raise. He has also suggested the issue should have been dealt with by the state Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.

The council originally authorized spending $20,000 on the report. But, as it continued, that cost doubled to $40,000.

Late last week, Drew sent a strongly worded letter to the council decrying the investigation, its cost, and what he said were inappropriate questions put to both him and members of his staff.

He subsequently posted the letter to his Facebook page.

That was the background for the meeting which convened in the council chamber at 7:35 p.m. Monday. But even as councilors were still settling into their seats, Daley led off, demanding to know if it was legal meeting.

I feel it would be inappropriate to proceed with a meeting that may, in fact, be an illegal meeting, he said.

Ryan quickly concurred, remarking the meeting was fatally flawed.

Daley and Ryan went back and forth as other councilors grew increasingly anxious that they, too, be heard.

Bartolotta, Giuliano and Majority Leader Thomas J. Serra (absent Monday) were tasked with choosing the investigator.

Bartolotta said she and her two colleagues proceeded carefully, at one point contacting a parliamentarian and repeatedly reaching out to Thomas A. Hennick, the public education officer for the Freedom of Information Commission, for guidance.

This wasnt done in a will-nilly fashion, Bartolotta said.

Daley noted, however, that Hennick is not a lawyer. He used to be a newspaper reporter.

Councilor Eugene Nocera said, We need to move very carefully from this point on.

Bartolotta attacked gossip that she said had attached itself to the report even before its release. She said all the councilors, including Daley, saw the agenda last week and could have suggested changing the agenda prior to the 4 p.m. Friday deadline, and prevented a wasted meeting.

I think were missing a very important [fact] here: the mayors Facebook post makes some accusations against members who are here tonight, Pessina said.

There is a lot of innuendo going through this community and the people need to know whats right, whats wrong. We owe it to the public to get it out here, Pessina said, slamming his hand on the dais in front of him for added emphasis.

What no one would do, however, is call for an adjournment.

Nocera could be heard quietly repeating, Move to adjourn, move to adjourn, move to adjourn.

But he did not make the motion to do so. Instead, he said the council should hear from all the councilors who wished to speak before adjourning.

Im not leaving this meeting without a copy of the report! Giuliano insisted, although eventually he did.

In his only comment of the evening, Drew once again referenced what he said were inappropriate questions put to city employees.

He said he was troubled that other councilors did not share his anger at those questions and suggested city employees might be in danger of losing their due process rights.

Reporter Jeff Mill covers East Hampton, Cromwell and Portland for the Middletown Press. Contact him at jeff.mill@hearstmediact.com.
A now-viral video shows a nail salon in chaos - a loose flip-flop on the floor, manicure stations pushed roughly to the side. Several Asian women in smocks grab at a black woman, trying to get a grip on the straps of her tank top. One sprays her with what looks like a bottle of acetone nail polish remover.

When the black woman breaks free, a barefoot Asian woman in denim shorts raises what looks like the handle of a mop or broomstick. She brings it down onto the black woman's back, repeatedly, as the woman flees from the salon.

The source of the dispute? A botched eyebrow wax, according to news reports.

By Monday night, the video had racked up hundreds of thousands of views. Two women had been charged with assault. And protesters had picketed outside the nail salon, accusing the Asian-owned business of disrespecting residents of the predominantly black neighborhood.

According to News12 in Brooklyn, Christina Thomas, 21, went to New Red Apple Nails on Friday night for a manicure, pedicure, and eyebrow wax. Both she and the salon's owners agree that she wasn't happy with how the eyebrow wax turned out.

Exactly what happened next is disputed. Thomas says that she refused to pay for the eyebrow wax, News12 reports. But the salon contends that she also refused to pay for the pedicure.

At that point, manager Michael Lin told NBC4 New York, employees blocked the door.

"She said she didn't like it and doesn't want to pay for nothing," Lin is quoted as saying. "I said 'sit down, let me call the police. If the police say you can go, you pay nothing. (If the) police say you pay for the pedicure, then you pay for the pedicure. No eyebrow, no problem.'"

That same night, a woman named Mercy Maduka posted video footage of the fight on Facebook. "So I'm at the nail salon and they . . .[expletive] . . . up a lady eyebrow and she refused to pay then a fight broke outttt," she wrote, including the salon's address.

In a follow-up post, she responded to commenters asking her why she hadn't tried to intervene in the beating, saying that police had already showed up, "and thats like 10 Asians with weapon."

"I'm not trying to die on my bday or go to jail," she wrote.

It's unclear how the dispute turned physical. Surveillance footage obtained by the New York Daily News and other media outlets begins in the middle of the confrontation, when a woman in a manicurist's smock is already pointing what looks like a broom handle at two black women. The black women and the nail salon employees start pushing and shoving each other, causing the scene to devolve into chaos as one manicurist picks up a chair and begins swinging it. During the ensuing fistfight, the woman now clutching the broom handle is knocked to the ground, but doesn't let go of her grip.

Two of the women in the video have since been arrested. According News12, Hiuyue Zheng is facing charges of assault, menacing, and criminal possession of a weapon. Christina Thomas, who Zheng allegedly attacked with a broomstick, is also being charged with assault. Prosecutors are currently reviewing additional evidence and may later alter those charges, the station reported.

Police told Pix11 that Zheng had been hospitalized and had injuries on her face and body. Thomas declined medical attention, the station reported.

According to the New York Daily News, police are also looking to arrest a second employee who allegedly threw liquid on the customers.

Sandwiched in between a West Indian grocery store and a sneaker store, New Red Apple Nails is located on the edge of East Flatbush, a working-class neighborhood in Brooklyn. Census data shows that East Flatbush is 86 percent black, and only 1 percent Asian.

The incident has inflamed racial tensions, and prompted calls for black residents to spend their money elsewhere.

"I'm expecting justice, but most of all I'm expecting black people to learn that when these business don't respect you, you don't spend your money with them," one protester, Tionna Smalls, told ABC7 New York.

"There is no respect for people in this neighborhood," Gavin Gibbs, a 49-year-old East Flatbush resident, said to the New York Daily News. "Anytime a store doesn't respect us, we're going to shut it down. We will come, we will picket it and we'll do whatever we have to close your store down."

On Monday, protesters gathered outside the salon, encouraging neighborhood residents to boycott the business. "Black $$$ Matter," one homemade sign read.

Livestreamed footage shows stone-faced police officers standing guard as protesters chant, "No more! No more!"

"Until they open a soul food restaurant in Chinatown, we ain't eating over there," one woman tells the crowd.

In another video from the protests, a man waves a Pan-African flag over the police barricades. "Every one of these stores don't like black people," he says. "They take our money and run."

At one point, an Asian man steps outside the salon and is booed. Police officers guide him back inside.

According to the New York Post, one protester screamed, "Where is ICE?" in an apparent reference to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Similar comments appeared on a livestream of the protests taking place outside the salon.

"Imigration needs 2 b called that's it," a woman named Erica Moss wrote.

"Where is ICE check for INS status!" Marison Goico Moya posted.

According to News12, the salon closed for the rest of the day.

---

https://youtu.be/GHpItxyFXDQ
Late Friday a video from the Houston Humane Society went viral, showing an Australian shepherd and border collie mix male named Hunter in the hours after his previous owners surrendered him.

In the video Hunter can be seen nuzzling one of the volunteers at the shelter and within hours the video was viewed more than 40,000 times and shared thousands of times across various social media platforms.

HOUSTON PUPS: Houstonians have a preferred dog breed, according to the American Kennel Club

The 6-year-old dog apparently hadn't been adapting well with his owners' new canine additions to the home and they gave him to the Houston Humane Society.

"His original family said he's not good with young children or small dogs, although he seems more scared of them than mean," Monica Schmidt with the Houston Humane Society said Sunday. "He seems to enjoy going for walks once he really gets to know and trust a volunteer, and he's pretty good on a leash."

INSTADOGS: Wanna turn your dog into an Instagram star? Read this story...

Over the course of the weekend the shelter received numerous inquiries about Hunter and many prospective owners have filled out applications to give him a new home. He spent most of the past weekend being checked out by staff and getting the occasional visitor interested in bringing him home.

Hunter is also heart worm positive but with proper treatment and care that can be fixed.

On Sunday afternoon Chron.com went to the shelter to visit Hunter and get a look at him as he was meeting with one of those prospective masters.

"He's definitely people-oriented, as you saw yesterday and he loves hugs and attention," Schmidt added.

Craig Hlavaty covers Houston history and pop-culture. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and on our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com. | craig.hlavaty@chron.com
About 200 active-duty troops from the 14th Brigade Engineer Battalion at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, will get a quick course in becoming "wildland firefighters" to battle the deadly wildfires devastating wide swaths of California, the Pentagon said Monday.

The 200 troops, plus command and support staff, will get one day of classroom training from firefighters at JBLM this week and then two more days of field training once it's decided which of the 18 major wildfires burning across California they will be asked to help contain.

The expectation is that the JBLM engineers will be on the ground in California by Aug. 13, said Army Col. Rob Manning, the Pentagon's director of press operations.

"The soldiers will be outfitted with wildland fire Personal Protective Equipment and all of the gear they will need to serve as wildland firefighters," U.S. Northern Command said in a statement.

The fledgling wildland firefighters from JBLM will be organized into 10 teams of 20 soldiers each, Manning said, but they won't be sent to battle a blaze on their own.

While supporting the overstretched California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), they "will be accompanied by experienced wildland fire strike team leaders and crew bosses from wildland fire management," NORTHCOM said in a statement.

It is not the first time active-duty troops from JBLM have been sent to help with California wildfires. Last August, JBLM soldiers gave support in battling blazes in northern California, said Army Lt. Col. Jamie Davis, a Pentagon spokesman.

The 18 large wildfires burning across California have consumed about 559,000 acres, destroyed homes and forced thousands to evacuate.

One of the wildfires, the "Carr fire" near Redding, California, on the Sacramento River about 120 miles south of the Oregon border, has claimed seven lives, destroyed more than 1,000 homes and scarred more than 163,200 acres, according to CAL FIRE.

In Redding, the Northern California Health Care System (NorCal) of the Department of Veterans Affairs has battled to keep open the Redding Outpatient Clinic, which serves about 11,000 veterans in the area, despite Redding clinic employees losing their homes and being forced to evacuate.

About 177 of the clinic's 199 staff have continued to report to work, NorCal said last Friday.

"The VA NorCal staff in Redding has set a standard in their commitment to local veterans," said VA NorCal Director David Stockwell in a statement. "Despite personal loss in many cases, they've managed to not only keep open the Outpatient Clinic's doors, but travel deep into the community to ensure displaced veterans are receiving the care they need and deserve."

The wildfires across the West have been fueled this year by drought conditions and unusual three-digit temperatures.

NORTHCOM's National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) in Boise, Idaho, has estimated that more than 127 wildfires are burning on about 1.6 million acres in California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Arizona and Alaska.

The request to the Defense Department for the 200 active-duty troops from JBLM came from the National Multi-Agency Coordinating Group (NMAC) at NIFC.

"We are committed to continuing to do everything we can to provide the firefighters, aircraft, engines, and other wildfire suppression assets that incident commanders need to protect lives, property, and valuable natural and cultural resources," said Dan Smith, chairman of NMAC.

Active-duty military personnel have been mobilized to serve as wildland firefighters 37 times since 1987, according to the NIFC.

The last time active-duty military personnel were mobilized was in September 2017, when 200 soldiers from JBLM were mobilized to help battle the North Umpqua Complex wildfires in Oregon for 30 days, NIFC said.

The active-duty troops will join Air National Guard and Army National Guard personnel who have been engaged in battling the fires for weeks.

Four California Air National Guard C-130 aircraft were dropping retardants on the wildfires and about 1,200 California Army National Guard troops were on the ground, according to Davis. In addition, the California Guard has contributed seven helicopters and an RC-26 reconnaissance aircraft.

The Oregon National Guard has contributed 200 troops and five helicopters to the California firefighting mission, Davis said. The Texas National Guard has sent three UH-60 helicopters and the New Mexico Guard has sent an RC-26, he added.

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.
The ousted commander of a Marine Corps air station rearranged his pilots' flight schedules to give himself more time in the cockpit and had a reputation of being a "big, angry colonel," according to an investigation into complaints about him.

Col. Mark Coppess, the former commanding officer of Marine Corps Air Station Futenma in Okinawa, Japan, abused his staff and officers for months "so he could achieve his personal objectives to fly," a 351-page report into his behavior states. A copy of the investigation was obtained by Military.com on Monday.

Coppess was relieved of command June 5 by Brig. Gen. Paul Rock, head of Marine Corps Installations Pacific. Rock lost confidence in the colonel's ability to lead, the service reported at the time.

Some believed Coppess, an AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopter pilot, was aggressively trying to earn flight time in a UC-35 Cessna Citation business jet. Coppess, who could not immediately be reached for comment, requested that he be scheduled to fly three times per week, according to the investigation.

"Colonel Coppess would remove pilots from the flight schedule and replace them with himself," one witness said, according to the documents. "... This looked like Colonel Coppess was trying to receive more fixed-wing time to set himself up for a career post-Marine Corps."

One witness said Coppess put his own time in the cockpit ahead of more junior pilots, adding that the colonel once said, "The captains can fly less. I've done my time."

Others cited a poor command climate under Coppess and alleged abuse of authority and undue command influence. Five pilots interviewed during the investigation reported "personally being pressured to produce certain outcomes not in accordance with orders, [standard operating procedures] and directives" for Coppess' benefit.

"He creates an atmosphere of fear and reprisal," a witness told the investigating officer. "He is using his position, title and rank to get what he wants for himself."

Coppess denied using his position to unduly influence flight operations at Futenma, but acknowledged that he'd heard about the accusations from Rock.

A former operations officer at Futenma said scheduling staff had to route the weekly flight schedule through Coppess' office before producing the daily schedules.

"He inserted himself into the schedule writing process," the officer said. "... There is a perception of a 'self hook-up' concerning Col. Coppess' flying."

Coppess also told his Marines there was "no rank in the cockpit." But those under his command didn't always find that to be the case.

The colonel showed an unwillingness to accept constructive feedback from junior personnel, one witness said, adding they feared some might be unwilling to "correct procedural deviations and potential flight safety concerns due to apprehension about retribution from Col. Coppess."

Pilots werent comfortable flying with Coppess, according to the investigation, and he was identified as a "high-risk aviator." He had a reputation for being "difficult in the cockpit," one witness said. Others said he was not experienced flying a fixed-wing aircraft.

Coppess once "rose his flaps at a non-standard time," according to a witness, and on another occasion "warmed a burrito on the exhaust duct of the aircraft."

While there aren't any Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization [NATOPS] prohibiting pilots from doing either, the witness said the acts were considered "different enough" for the aircraft commanders to raise the issue to a party whose name was redacted in the report.

Coppess did not address those incidents in the investigating officer's documents, but did say that he supports naval aviation's constructs for safety and standardization.

In a memo for a May command meeting, he urged other aviators to be straight with him about his aviation skills, despite his rank and position. The memo was included in the investigation, though it's not immediately clear whether the meeting was held.

"It will help me in knowing and owning my weaknesses and seeking improvement," Coppess wrote in the meeting memo. "... I fully intend to know and own my shortcomings as an aviator."

Despite the deficiencies some witnesses described, several people told the investigating officer that Coppess was pressuring people in the command to make him a Transport Aircraft Commander, or TAC. One in particular said he was under "constant pressure" to make Coppess a TAC in the UC-35D.

"[He] is not ready and is a below-average copilot," the witness said. "I was specifically told by him a few months ago that he will be a TAC, will be dual [qualified to fly both our UC-35 and UC-12], and that he will be an instructor in at least one of the planes."

Coppess addressed those issues in an April 27 letter that was included in the investigation. Writing to a redacted party, Coppess said he recognized the standardization board's role in nominating pilots for additional designations and qualifications. He did "not intend to influence members of the Standardization Board in their responsibilities," he wrote.

"I apologize for the unintentional perception of undue command influence on the [board's] role of nominating pilots for designations and qualifications," he said. "That won't happen again. When the [board] determines I've progressed in proficiency and I'm nominated, I will be ready for the TAC syllabus."

He also invited the person to bring any fears of reprisal to his attention.

While at Futenma, Coppess racked up more flight hours than any other air station commanding officer in the Marine Corps during the same period, according to the investigation. His command did not immediately respond to questions about his current assignment.

-- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @ginaaharkins.
The Army's Special Operations Command is cooperating with Washington state investigators after police say a Ranger brutally killed a woman in her hotel room, then opened fire at two occupied cars before fatally shooting himself late last month.

Pvt. Krishna Mahadevan-Prasad, 20, had been stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord for just two weeks when police say he checked into an Econo Lodge in Renton, Wash., about an hour from the base on July 24, then killed a 38-year-old Bellevue woman staying in another room, and may have mutilated the body.

Renton police issued a warrant for Mahadevan-Prasad and were still trying to track him down the following day when the Washington State Patrol notified them he had fired at two cars near the Hood Canal Bridge in western Washington, narrowly missing two young girls, then apparently killed himself. No one else was seriously injured in the shooting.

"We are aware of the incident that occurred July 24th, 2018 in the vicinity of Hood Canal Bridge, and are cooperating with the Washington State Patrol who maintain lead in this investigation," said Lt. Col. Robert Bockholt, spokesman for the Army's Special Operations Command, via email on Monday.

Mahadevan-Prasad had been assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment on July 10 after completing basic training, One Station Unit Training, the Basic Airborne Course and the Ranger Assessment and Selection Program 1 at Fort Benning, Ga., according to a biography Bockholt provided.

The gruesome circumstances of the homicide had investigators concerned that Mahadevan-Prasad may have committed other acts of violence. They were seeking information to piece together his movements before and after the killing.

Detectives were also asking other police departments across the country if they have similar unsolved homicides, according to local news reports.

"This was pretty horrific compared to a lot of homicides that we investigate," Renton Police Commander Dave Leibman told KOMO news.

Video-surveillance footage shows that Mahadevan-Prasad spent just minutes inside the motel room of the slain woman, who has not yet been identified, the Seattle Times reported.

"The camera shows him knocking on the door and the door opening," Leibman said. "He was only in the room for three minutes."

The woman had checked in to the Econo Lodge at 4710 Lake Washington Blvd. N.E. on Sunday, Leibman told the newspaper. Mahadevan-Prasad checked in to the same motel on Monday morning, he said, and police did not see him bring any items into his room.

The soldier was inside only a short time before video-surveillance footage shows him walking to the woman's room on a different floor and in a different area of the motel. He was also seen leaving her room and walking south through the parking lot.

Later that afternoon, a motel employee entered the woman's room, discovered her body on the floor and called 911, Leibman said.

Police didn't know at the time the woman was also sexually assaulted because they had not yet received the results of an autopsy.

"We're still not 100 percent clear what their relationship was. It doesn't look like they'd actually met prior to this incident," Leibman said in the immediate wake of the killing.

On Monday, he said the detectives investigating the crime were not available to discuss new information in the case.

Though Mahadevan-Prasad had checked in with an altered ID issued in New Jersey, the ID contained enough factual information for police to positively identify him. They immediately issued a warrant for him and a 1995 Honda Accord wagon with New Jersey plates that he was seen driving away from the motel.

"He's definitely our suspect," Leibman told the Times.

The soldier was in that car when he stopped on eastbound SR 104 at the west end of the Hood Canal Bridge at around 3:30 a.m. on July 25, armed with a rifle and a shotgun, the Washington State Patrol said in a release. The bridge was closed to traffic for scheduled overnight maintenance at the time.

He soon opened fire on a Ford Expedition parked in front of him, police said. Inside were Michael Brooks, 28, of Port Angeles, and his two daughters, ages 5 and 7.

The girls were asleep, leaning toward either door of the vehicle and their father was bent over a map at the time, the state patrol release said. One of the shots went through the driver's seat head rest and exited through the front windshield, according to the release and photos posted online.

Brooks told the Peninsula Daily News he was taking his daughters to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to fly home to their mother in Ohio when the gunfire erupted.

"The first thing that went through my head is I need to get my children out of there," he said.

At first his SUV wouldn't start, he told the newspaper, but he was eventually able to drive around a semi-truck in front of him and get to safety. He said the bullet also pierced one of his daughters' seats.

"I got pretty lucky they happened to be asleep," he said. "That bullet would have killed my daughter and it would have killed me. We are very, very lucky today."

The girls are too young to completely understand what happened, he added.

After firing on Brooks' vehicle, Mahadevan-Prasad then turned and fired at a Dodge Caravan behind him, grazing the elbow of the 30-year-old man inside, who was asleep. He was treated at the scene for the minor injury.

"The whole thing's crazy. If you add up what happened at the Hood Canal, there's so many unanswered questions," Leibman told the Seattle Times. "The way the homicide occurred, the violence involved in it and the fact that this appears to be a stranger homicide, it gives us the concern that maybe he's done this before."
Sarah Corry is the Executive Director of Purple Hearts Reunited and the proud daughter of a Marine Vietnam Veteran and two-time Purple Heart recipient. She resides with her two children, Andrew and Claire, in Vermont.

"Grandpa's heart is purple?" My son asked with a bewildered look on his face. "Why isn't it red?"

Andrew, five years old at the time, overheard my conversation with my father, a Marine Corps Vietnam War Veteran, discussing how grateful my brothers and I are to have my dad's two Purple Hearts in our possession to share and pass down to our children.

As I sat with my son and showed him the two tangible symbols of sacrifice his grandfather made for our country, I was overcome with emotion. This moment with my son was not only precious to me as a mom, but deepened the commitment I have for my role as executive director of Purple Hearts Reunited.

Our mission of returning lost or stolen military medals of valor to veterans or their families is something I have always been passionate about but until this moment, my experience of reuniting medals with families was with my Executive Director hat on. Now I view each one as a proud daughter and grateful mother.

I share this story with you today, on National Purple Heart Day. This day honors families who represent our nation's heroes from World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and the War on Terror. When servicemen and women are wounded or sacrifice their life in times of war, our country awards the service member or their family with the prestigious Purple Heart.

An estimated 1.8 million Purple Hearts have been awarded in our Nation's history. Over time, many of these medals become lost, stolen, or simply misplaced and we have the tremendous honor of bringing them home.

The original Purple Heart, designated as the Badge of Military Merit, was established by George Washington -- then the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. From then on, as its legend grew, so did its appearance. Although never abolished, the award of the badge was not proposed again officially until after World War I. General Douglas MacArthur, commissioned work of a new design and the Purple Heart was revived on the 200th Anniversary of George Washington's birth by Executive Order of the President of the United States on February 22, 1932.

As I sit here with my son and share the stories of those heroes we are honoring this year, I am completely overwhelmed by their sacrifice to this country.

Men like 1st Sergeant Fred Mueller who was killed on "D-Day" over Normandy with the famed 101st Airborne Division.

Soldiers and Marines like Private First Class Joseph M. Hish and Captain Sebert N. Perry who fought on the hallowed grounds of the Meuse-Argonne and Belleau Woods one hundred years ago during the Great War.

A lost husband and father in Chief Quartermaster Ray C. Ayers, who was killed while serving on the U.S.S. Houston during the Battle of Sunda Strait.

Those that participated in great history, such as Technical Sergeant Thomas M. Williams Jr., who participated in the first heavy bombing mission over Japan.

Our elite operators such as Sergeant First Class Billy D. Evans, who while serving as a Green Beret in Vietnam, received our nation's second highest decoration, the Distinguished Service Cross.

Men who died on frozen battlefields like Corporal Robert G. Miller, who succumbed to his injuries in the Korean War.

Last but not least, our modern-day warriors such as Staff Sergeant Michael T. Jeffrey, who received a Purple Heart for service in Iraq and is currently struggling to find comfort and peace with those injuries that still plague him.

We do more than rescue and return these medals; we reunite and heal families. We return what is often the last tangible piece of a veteran to his or her family. This is often the solace that is needed for a military family to commemorate their loved one's service.

Return ceremonies, like one we held today, educate communities across the country about what it means to serve and provide them with the history behind the medal as well as a detailed accounting of their loved ones' service. In 1973, thousands of military records were destroyed in a devastating fire at the National Personnel Record Center. Through our foundation we have begun the process of piecing together the tattered narrative of American heroes. More importantly, we have honored them by sharing their stories with their own families and a grateful Nation.

Since 2012 we have returned over 500 medals, traveled over 100,000 miles, and affected the lives of over one million people through the foundation. More importantly, we have given precious moments like the one I experienced with my son back to mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters and grandchildren across our great nation. Today, we have the great privilege of sharing that moment to seven deserving families and one living hero.

National Purple Heart Day is a wonderful day to highlight these American heroes and their sacrifice. Our nation has heroes currently serving around the world on freedom's frontier, however, and as long as they continue to selflessly serve, Purple Hearts Reunited will continue to work to ensure that these warriors and the tokens and mementos of their service will forever be respected, remembered and returned home.

-- The opinions expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Military.com. If you would like to submit your own commentary, please send your article to opinions@military.com for consideration.
In his second week on the job, new VA Secretary Robert Wilkie pledged a cleanup of the scandal-plagued Washington, D.C., Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center where inspectors found doctors using rusty surgical tools and identified a sense of "complacency" in the facility's leadership.

Wilkie went to VAMC Monday, where he was told that plans were in place for "assuring reliable availability and sterilization of instruments for surgical procedures," the VA said in a release.

Wilkie also was told that an electronic inventory was being set up to make sure that the hospital, serving about 90,000 veterans in the D.C. area, overcomes chronic equipment shortages.

Previous reports from the VA's Office of Inspector General charged that VAMC staffers at times had to make emergency runs to neighboring hospitals to ask for supplies.

The hospital had to borrow bone material for knee replacement surgeries and also ran out of tubes needed for kidney dialysis, forcing staff to go to a private-sector hospital to procure them, the IG's report last year said.

VAMC officials also told Wilkie that they were doing better at making timely appointments, particularly for prosthetics.

"We had a good visit today, and I appreciated hearing from facility and regional leadership on the important work that has been done to address the Inspector General's concerns, as well as plans for resolving all its remaining recommendations," Wilkie said in a statement. "There have been substantial improvements over the past few months in practice management, logistics and prosthetics in particular, and leaders have a strong plan ahead for even more progress in the coming weeks."

Wilkie approved yet another shuffle of VAMC's leadership to implement the changes. The current acting director, Adam M. Robinson Jr., will return to his previous position as director of the VA Maryland Health Care System.

A new permanent director for VAMC has been identified, and the name will be announced "in the near future," the VA said.

In the interim, VAMC Chief of Staff Charles Faselis will serve as acting director of the facility.

Damning reports from VA Inspector General Michael Missal on conditions at VAMC were a factor in the downfall of Wilkie's predecessor as VA Secretary, Dr. David Shulkin, who was fired in a Tweet by President Donald Trump in March.

In April 2017, Missal took the unusual step of issuing an emergency report on conditions at VAMC before his inspection was complete to avoid putting patients at risk.

In his scathing report, IG Missal said that storage areas for medical supplies at the VAMC were filthy, management was clueless on what was in the storage areas, medical supply rejects may have been used on patients and more than $150 million in supplies and equipment had never been inventoried.

Shulkin relieved VAMC Director Brian Hawkins and replaced him with Lawrence Connell, one of his top policy advisors and a retired Army colonel.

In early March, just before Shulkin was fired, Missal issued another report warning that for years VAMC had "suffered a series of systemic and programmatic failures to consistently deliver timely and quality patient care."

The report charged that there were staff shortages in several departments and that about $92 million in supplies and equipment were purchased over a two-year period without "proper controls to ensure the purchases were necessary and cost-effective."

In April, Connell was out as temporary director following a dispute over "technical aspects" of his appointment, the VA said.

In his latest report on VAMC, Missal made 25 recommendations for improving care. The VA said Monday that VAMC had implemented six of the 25 recommendations and was working to resolve the remaining 19.

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.
The Navy is investigating what caused a fuel tank to fall from a utility helicopter while it was on the ground last week, killing one sailor and injuring another.

Naval Helicopter Aircrewman 1st Class Jonathan Richard Clement was killed July 30 when an HH-60H Sea Hawk's auxiliary fuel tank detached from the aircraft and landed on him and another sailor at Naval Air Station North Island, California.

Clement died at the hospital, according to the Naval Safety Center. The other sailor involved, a petty officer second class, sustained minor injuries and was treated and released from the hospital the same day, said Cmdr. Ron Flanders, a spokesman for Naval Air Forces.

The Navy did not publicly disclose the deadly mishap when it happened and had not previously released any information about the accident or the sailor who died.

The incident happened "during hotseat," the Naval Safety Center reported. The intent of hot-seating aircraft is to launch and execute the next mission prior to shutting down the aircraft, according to Navy helicopter standard operating procedures.

The cause of the mishap remains under investigation, Flanders said. There is no timetable on when it will be complete.

Clement was born in Florida and enlisted in the Navy in 2007. He was assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 85, based out of San Diego.

He rated the Enlisted Naval Aircrew Warfare Specialist and Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist badges. Clement also had four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medals, a Good Conduct medal and a Sea Service Deployment ribbon, according to his personnel records.

Last year, Air Force Staff Sgt. Alexandria Mae Morrow died from injuries after a bomb she was loading onto an aircraft slipped and hit her on the head. She was deployed to the Middle East at the time.

-- Gina Harkins can be reached at gina.harkins@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @ginaaharkins.
The U.S. Air Force is looking for lighter, stronger material for airmen to wear on the battlefield. And it may be a job for spiders: Researchers are looking to arachnids to engineer new synthetic materials that are stronger than Kevlar.

Scientists at the Air Force Research Laboratory and Purdue University are teaming up to create new materials based on the natural properties of spider silk that are more flexible and have better breathing ability for service members in hot climates, according to a recent service release.

"Estimates indicate that while artificial spider silk may initially cost twice as much as Kevlar, the product's minimal weight, incredible strength and elasticity and potential adaptability for other needs are characteristics that enhance its salability," the release said.

And it's not just for body armor. Parachutes made from the synthetic material may be able to carry a larger payload because of its strength, officials said.

Related content:

"Making the warfighter more comfortable by enhancing body armor is just one of the many improvements my team hopes to make by studying natural silk," said Dr. Augustine Urbas, a researcher in AFRL's functional materials division, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, said in a released statement.

"Understanding natural silk will enable us to engineer multifunctional fibers with exponential possibilities," Urbas said. "The ultra-strong fibers outperform the mechanical characteristics of many synthetic materials as well as steel. These materials could be the future in comfort and strength in body armor and parachute material for the warfighter."

The news of the research comes almost two years after the Army began testing material from genetically-modified silkworms to create non-traditional protein fibers known as "Dragon Silk."

The service said at the time it was working with Michigan-based Kraig Biocraft Laboratories, altering silkworms to produce the tougher material, according to a report from Army Times.

Scientists told Army Times the technology had been in development and testing for more than a decade.

The Pentagon has also looked to mantis shrimp, crab and snail shells as next-generation composite materials that could potentially be copied using 3D printing for use in body armor.

-- Oriana Pawlyk can be reached at oriana.pawlyk@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @oriana0214.
The U.S. Army has awarded a $49 million contract to Atlantic Diving Supply Inc. to supply the base-model holsters for the service's new Modular Handgun System (MHS).

ADS, a large military equipment supplier in Virginia Beach, beat out five other bids to supply the Modular Handgun Holster (MHH) for the M17 and M18 versions of MHS, according to a July 30 contract award announcement posted on Defense.gov. The competing firms were not named in the award notice.

The Army confirmed that ADS will supply the same Safariland Group holster that Program Executive Office Soldier unveiled last December, according to Debra Dawson, spokeswoman for PEO Soldier.

The tan-colored holster features a dual locking system that can be released with the shooter's firing hand thumb.

The Army also plans to field a light-compatible holster in the future that will allow soldiers in infantry and other direct-action units to carry the MHS with a weapon light mounted on the pistol's accessory rail.

"In its initial configuration, the MHH design holster will hold an M17/M18 handgun only. When the Army selects a light, the vendor producing the MHH will be responsible to also produce a holster that accommodates an M17 (and M18) with a light attached to the handgun," Dawson said in a statement.

So far, the Army has identified pistol lights equipped with infrared aiming lasers made by LaserMax Defense and Streamlight that meet its requirements.

The service intends to have soldiers from operational units evaluate both light models. If all goes well, it would then assign each light model with a national stock number so unit commanders could purchase them with unit funds, Army officials said.

ADS is expected to complete delivery of the base model Modular Handgun Holster by July 29, 2023, the award notice states. The Army intends to field about 238,000 MHS pistols.

The Army awarded Sig Sauer the MHS contract, worth up to $580 million, in January 2017 after the firm beat out Glock Inc., FN America and Beretta USA, maker of the current M9 9mm service pistol, to find a replacement for the Cold War-era M9.

-- Matthew Cox can be reached at matthew.cox@military.com.
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After a successful pilot program launched late last year, Ford has now equipped employees at 15 of its plants with exoskeleton vests that aim to reduce the risk of fatigue or injury.

The Dearborn, Michigan-based automaker says the EksoVest is wearable technology that helps elevate and provide support to a worker's arms while they perform overhead tasks. These vests are said to fit employees of varying size from 5-feet-2 to 6-feet-4 inches tall, and can provide up to five to 15 pounds of lift assistance to each arm.

This global expansion comes after Ford ran two pilot programs at its Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne and its Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Flat Rock, Michigan.

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Ford, who partnered with Ekso Bionics on the project, touts the measure as its "latest example" of it using advanced technology to reduce the physical toll on assembly line employees.

"My job entails working over my head, so when I get home my back, neck and shoulders usually hurt," Paul Collins, an assembly line worker at Ford's Michigan Assembly Plant, said in the original news release.

"Since I started using the vest, I'm not as sore, and I have more energy to play with my grandsons when I get home."

While the ExoVest might seem robotic at first glance, the automaker says in a news release that they are non-powered and built for "dynamic, real-world environments." Ford said the original plan was to expand the program into Europe and South America after the pilot in Michigan.

The automaker says with advanced technology like this and other means, that it has enjoyed an 83 percent decline in incidents leading to time off, work restrictions or transfers between 2005 and 2016. In a Tuesday, Aug. 7 news release, Ford says the early 2018 incident numbers are "one of the lowest on record."

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ANN ARBOR, MI - There's something for every voter in Washtenaw County to decide in the Tuesday, Aug. 7 primary election.

Aside from the Michigan gubernatorial primary, there are races for Ann Arbor mayor, City Council seats in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, state House and Senate, county board and more.

There also are 13 tax proposals to be decided by voters in different parts of the county, including a local transit tax renewal on the ballot in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and Ypsilanti Township.

Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

To find out where to vote and view what's on your ballot, go to the Michigan Voter Information Center website.

MLive has partnered with the nonpartisan League of Women Voters of Michigan to provide information to voters.

Check out the league's election guide at Vote411.org to learn about candidates and proposals on the ballot.

Additional election information from the nonpartisan CivCity Initiative in Ann Arbor can be found at AnnArborVotes.org.

Here's a quick overview of everything (minus some uncontested races) that's on the ballot, with links to previous coverage:

13 ballot proposals

AAATA transit tax renewal

18th District state Senate race

State Sen. Rebekah Warren, D-Ann Arbor, is term-limited in the state Senate, leaving her 18th District seat representing the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti areas up for grabs.

Competing in the Democratic primary are former state Rep. Jeff Irwin of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County Commissioner Michelle Deatrick of Superior Township, Ann Arbor businesswoman Anuja Rajendra and Washtenaw Community College student Matthew Miller. The winner faces Republican Martin Church of Ypsilanti in November.

22nd District state Senate race

Republicans Joseph Converse Marinaro and Lana Theis are competing in the Senate district that includes Livingston County and much of Washtenaw County. The winner faces Democrat Adam Dreher in November. Sen. Joe Hune, R-Hamburg, is term-limited.

54th District state House race

State Rep. Ronnie Peterson, D-Ypsilanti Township, is defending his seat against Democratic challengers Roderick Casey, Isaac London and Bill Riney. On the other side of the ticket, Colton Campbell and Ora Wright are competing for the GOP nomination.

55th District state House race

State Rep. Adam Zemke, D-Pittsfield Township, is term-limited in the state House. Seeking his seat are state Sen. Rebekah Warren, D-Ann Arbor, and Shauna McNally of Ypsilanti Township, who are competing for the Democratic nomination, while Bob Baird, Miha Todd and Bill Boring compete for the Republican nomination.

Ann Arbor mayoral race

Mayor Christopher Taylor is defending his seat against City Council Member Jack Eaton in the Democratic primary for mayor.

Ann Arbor City Council races

1st Ward Ann Arbor council race

Democrats Ron Ginyard and Jeff Hayner are competing for the seat being vacated by Sumi Kailasapathy. The winner faces democratic socialist Ryan Hughes in November.

2nd Ward Ann Arbor council race

Council Member Kirk Westphal, D-2nd Ward, is defending his seat against Democratic challenger Kathy Griswold.

3rd Ward Ann Arbor council race

Council Member Julie Grand, D-3rd Ward, is defending her seat against Democratic challenger Alice Liberson.

4th Ward Ann Arbor council race

Council Member Graydon Krapohl, D-4th Ward, is defending his seat against Democratic challenger Elizabeth Nelson.

5th Ward Ann Arbor council race

Council Member Chuck Warpehoski, D-5th Ward, is defending his seat against Democratic challenger Ali Ramlawi.

Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners

District 1 county board race

Commissioner Kent Martinez-Kratz, D-Chelsea, is defending his seat against Democratic challenger Jason Maciejewski of Dexter Township. The winner faces Republican Rod Anderson in November.

District 2 county board race

Democrats Tom Brennan of Superior Township, Rodrick Green of Superior Township and Sue Shink of Northfield Township are competing for the seat being vacated by Michelle Deatrick. The winner faces Republican Kevin Jardine in November.

District 5 county board race

Commissioner Ruth Ann Jamnick, D-Ypsilanti Township, is defending her seat against Democratic challengers Justin Hodge of Ypsilanti Township and Michael White of Ypsilanti Township, a write-in candidate.

The winner faces Republican Richard Valencourt in November.

District 6 county board race

Commissioner Ricky Jefferson, D-Ypsilanti, is defending his seat against Democratic challenger Janessa Williams.

Cheryl Farmer, a third Democrat, also appears on the ballot, but she has suspended her campaign for family reasons.

The winner faces Republican Thomas Banks in November.

District 9 county board race

Commissioner Conan Smith, D-Ann Arbor, is defending his seat against Democratic challenger Katie Scott.

The winner faces Republican Stuart Berry in November.

Ypsilanti races

Ypsilanti mayor

Beth Bashert is running unopposed in the Democratic primary for Ypsilanti mayor. She'll advance as the Democratic nominee to face multiple independent mayoral candidates in November, including Mickeila Tate and Adrienne Hirschfelder, whose names are on the November ballot along with Bashert's. Anne Brown also filed as an independent write-in candidate for November.

1st Ward Ypsilanti council race

Council Member Nicole Brown, D-1st Ward, is defending her seat against Democratic challenger Ka'Ron Gaines.

3rd Ward Ypsilanti council race

Democrat Adam Gainsley has suspended his campaign, leaving Democrat Anthony Morgan the only 3rd Ward candidate in the running on Tuesday, though both their names appear on the ballot. Desirae Simmons, an independent, awaits the winner in November.

U.S. House District 7

Former state Rep. Gretchen Driskell, D-Saline, and Steve Friday of Dexter are competing for the Democratic nomination to take on Republican Tim Walberg in November.

U.S. Senator

Republicans John James and Sandy Pensler are competing for a chance to face Democrat Debbie Stabenow in November.

Michigan governor

Abdul El-Sayed, Shri Thanedar and Gretchen Whitmer are competing for the Democratic nomination, while Brian Calley, Patrick Colbeck, Jim Hines and Bill Schuette compete for the Republican nomination, and Bill Gelineau and John Tatar compete for the Libertarian nomination.

Pittsfield Township park commissioner

Four Democrats are competing for two seats, including Trish Reilly, Sean Zera, Anne Maxine Fortunato and Janet Nevaux.
DETROIT - A man accused of seriously injuring a Detroit police officer in a hit-and-run crash over the weekend has been arraigned on felony charges.

Jonathan David Cole, 19, of Belleville, was arraigned Tuesday morning, Aug. 7 in Wayne County's 36 District Court on one count each of reckless driving causing serious impairment to a bodily function and failure to stop at the scene of an accident resulting in serious impairment, according to a statement from Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy.

Cole is accused of hitting Detroit Police Officer Fadi Shukur, 30, at about 2:50 a.m., Aug. 4, while driving at high rate of speed eastbound in the 18800 block of McNichols Road and fleeing the area.

Police were in the area dispersing a party when Shukur was hit walking to his patrol car.

The officer suffered severe head trauma and underwent surgery, police said.

He listed in critical condition.

Cole later turned himself over to authorities at a Detroit police precinct after seeing a press conference posted on the department's Facebook page, police said.

Cole is scheduled for a preliminary examination Aug. 21, before District Judge Kenneth King. Bond was set at $150,000.
MT. MORRIS TWP., MI - A man faces four federal charges after investigators seized $10,000 in cash, computers, printers and other equipment believed to be used in making fake IDs, credit cards and gift cards.

Mt. Morris Township Police executed a search warrant on June 22 at 6242 Cypress Drive, according to a criminal complaint filed in Flint U.S. District Court on Aug. 1.

The man faces charges of possession of five or more false identification documents, production of counterfeit access devices, possession of 15 or more access devices and possession of device-making equipment.

Police seized $10,000 in cash, three laptops, five flash drives, various printers, two card reader devices and two cellphones, according to the complaint. Investigators also found more than 100 printed and partially printed credit cards, gift cards and driver's licenses, along with about 22 blank cards.

Federal agents discovered there were 70 printed or partially printed cards and about 50 printed or partially printed driver's licenses, the criminal complaint said.

One of the residents of the home was on parole and was arrested during the execution of the search warrant. He had three fake IDs on his possession when he was arrested, the complaint states.

The man is not being identified because he has not yet been arraigned on the charges.

He later told police he advertises the sale of fake credit and gift cards and fake IDs online, the criminal complaint said. The suspect told police he uses the computers, card reader and embosser to make the fake cards and documents.

After the items are made, the man told police he mails them to his customers, according to the criminal complaint.

The FBI has been investigating a wire fraud conspiracy involving fake prepaid gift cards from Walmart stores throughout the U.S., the complaint said. Individuals involved in the scheme used a fake card with instructions for the cashier on the back of the card, according to court documents.

Investigators found a counterfeit card with similar instructions to cashiers on how to complete the wire transactions for merchandise on prepaid cards, the criminal complaint said.

The suspect told investigators he was aware of the scheme to bilk Walmart, but added that the counterfeit cards were used as props and couldn't be used to commit fraud because the magnetic strip on the back of the cards does not work, according to the criminal complaint.

The complaint did not say if the arrest was tied to the Walmart fraud case from earlier this year.

There were 18 people indicted by a Flint federal grand jury in March as part of a scam involving the use of Walmart prepaid cards to wire money from the store to their personal funds.

When the checkout cashier would scan the barcode on the falsified prepaid card, a wire transmission from Walmart's corporate office in Missouri would activate the account number assigned to the card, the indictment claims.

When the cashier was instructed to load a dollar value onto the card, a member of the alleged conspiracy would either slide an illegitimate credit or debit card or pretend to slide a card through the reader as if they were paying for the transaction, MLive-The Flint Journal previously reported.

A member of the conspiracy would then instruct the cashier to manually complete the transaction by pressing various sequences involving the cash tender key, which would fraudulently show that the card was paid for and wire funds from Walmart ePay databases in Colorado or Arkansas to the card.

After the transaction was complete, the conspirators would then allegedly convert funds on the prepaid cards to their own personal use, according to MLive-The Flint Journal files.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - The Grand Rapids Board of Education voted 7 to 1 on Monday, Aug. 6, to transfer operation of the center-based special education programs to the Kent ISD next year.

The programs serve students from all 20 Kent ISD districts, who have cognitive and physical impairments and autism spectrum disorder that exceed the capacity of their local districts. The transfer will be effective July 1, 2019.

Currently, there are 1,385 students in the center-based programs, including 485 from Grand Rapids. Those GRPS students would also be served by Kent ISD after the transition.

Superintendent Teresa Weatherall Neall said Monday "this is best for kids." When she made the recommendation to the school board July 17, she said it allowed the district "to really focus on our core business with our children.''

Kent ISD will be holding town hall listening sessions on Aug. 29 and Sept. 5, specifically for parents of students attending center-based programs and the approximately 440 staff members - more than 100 teachers - working with students.

"I firmly believe that this is in the best interest of our students attending center-based programs, as it will ensure greater access, inclusion, and a more direct stake from all 20 districts in center-based special education programming,'' said Neal, in letter sent to special education stakeholders Monday night.

Statewide ISDs or regional education service agencies usually run the center-based special education programs.

"It is a huge responsibility," said school board member Tony Baker, noting the district has been shouldering that responsibility for the other districts for decades.

"The ISD is set up to do the things that individual school districts don't have the capacity to do because individual school districts are also expected to prepare students for college and career.''

But school board member Jose Flores opposed the transfer. He said the board hasn't seen an articulated transition plan regarding students and staff, only heard assumptions about how Kent ISD will handle the process.

"There are really no assurances,'' he said. "I just think we are moving too fast and there is certainly a lot of room for students and staff to fall between the cracks in a process that has not been clearly defined.''

In recent years, GRPS' management and leadership of both the center-based and district special education programs have been criticized by parents and teachers.

Last school year, it was more intense, including petitions for both Neal's removal and the special education executive director, Laura LaMore. But Neal said the backlash was not factor, rather the change has been discussed for a few years.

Parents have expressed support for the change, as well as Disability A-TEAM of West Michigan, a parent advocacy group. Prior to the vote Monday, a few parents and teacher were again critical of the district's program oversight and supported of the change.

"Each year the special education problems have gotten worse and there has been no response to that from the district,'' said Lily Schulting, a special education parent and founder of Diability A-TEAM, after the meeting.

"We will continue to advocate for all students with disabilities, whether center-based students or those in other GRPS programs.''

Schulting said parents share some common goals with Kent ISD about improving quality. She said her group wants to work closely with officials on the transition, including retaining staff.

According to Kent ISD, the purpose of the town hall meetings is "to surface concerns and recommendations'' related to program operation.

"Grand Rapids has done a wonderful job of taking care of our children for decades,'' said Kent ISD Superintendent Ron Caniff.

"We are committed to continuing high quality care and a seamless transition with the support of Grand Rapids schools and our other local districts.''

James White, the parent of a student in the center-based programs, told the board he is more concerned about transparency than a seamless process. He said he wants the independent review of the program underway that Kent ISD superintendents ordered this spring to be completed and made public.

"I am more concerned about these students being in good facilities and that they have good programs that gets them engaged in the community and meets the objectives set up,'' said White, who has a son in the programs.

In May, in response to months of program criticism, area superintendents announced they wanted "to verify the programming meets student needs and reflects the highest quality of the services and programs offered elsewhere in the state.''

School board president Wendy Falb said the plus size of the change is that there will be a broader sense of representation and engagement from all districts with GRPS not overseeing operations.

Caniff said the timing of the GRPS' action is ideal because consultant Beth Steenwyk, former deputy director of the Office of Special Education and Early Intervention Services for the Michigan Department of Education, can add the transition to her work.

Parents and board members raised questions about Kent ISD keeping on staff that have built relationships with families over the years.

Caniff said they will be seeking talented people to operate a high quality program and of course, would be looking at existing staff. However, he said there are a lot of details to hammer out and it was too premature to say anything more about staffing.

There are three parent town hall meetings planned at the Kent ISD, 1633 Knapp St. NE, in the Grand Room on Wednesday, Aug. 29, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and two on Wednesday, Sept. 5, from 9:30 to 11 a.m., and from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

There will be a three-part approach for providing each participant an opportunity to share and openly discuss their perspectives regarding the transition of the programs to Kent ISD:

Each individual participant will be given time to complete a written response and offer 2-3 priority concerns and 2-3 priority recommendations related to the transition of Center Based Program operation to Kent ISD. All participants will be facilitated thru a group dialogue about concerns, opportunities and recommendations related to the transition of Center Based Program operation to Kent ISD. Participants will be given an opportunity for a brief (1 minute or less) comment on their top issue related to the transition of Center Based Program operation to Kent ISD (this can be either a concern, opportunity or recommendation).

The town halls for staff are scheduled from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Aug. 29, and on Sept. 5, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. and 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Neal said with the changeover she hopes to be able to provide teachers with special education students who have been mainstreamed into general education classrooms more support.

School board member Jen Schottke had an excused absence for Monday's meeting.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - Less than 17 percent of Grand Rapids police officers live in the city they serve.

With the remaining 245 sworn officers residing elsewhere, the police department is considering adopting a residential incentive program in an effort to attract more officers to live in the city.

"I don't want to imply that officers outside the city are any less dedicated," said Police Chief David Rahinsky. "But I also think, and why I live in the city, when you're part of a community and you call it home and spend your waking hours here, you live here, dine here, your neighbors see you every morning, it brings a different perspective.

"When it's your neighborhood, your street, there's no way to replicate that, short of being part of the community."

As of July 2018, 50 of the department's 295 sworn police officers live in Grand Rapids. The department declined to provide a city or zip-code breakdown of where the other 83 percent of the force live.

A 1999 Michigan law restricts public entities from requiring individuals to reside within a certain geographic area. The city can set a minimum distance from the city of 20 miles or more, but the police department doesn't have such a policy.

What the department can do is create an incentive program that offers benefits like a tax abatement, financial bonus or take-home vehicle to police who live in the city. That's an option Rahinsky would like Grand Rapids to consider implementing.

"What we have done is we've had multiple conversations, but we need to move past conversations to a point of action," Rahinsky said. "We're looking at best practices ... There are a lot of opportunities that other cities are pursuing. We're looking at them and I think we're close to pursuing that."

Finding ways to improve community-police relations has been a focus among community leaders and residents in recent years, and Rahinsky sees an incentive program as another step toward building trust in his department.

Earlier this summer, several community members voiced a desire to have more police officers who are not only from Grand Rapids, but still live in the city today. Rahinsky has heard those requests since he got to Grand Rapids in 2014, and he sees the benefits of a force that's more connected to its service area.

"It's human eyes on you," the chief said. "When people see me at a Whitecaps game, or at the farmer's market on a Saturday morning in jeans and a T-shirt, it gives people a different perspective. They think, 'they're just like us, they want the same things we want - a safe neighborhood, an area where kids can play without fear.' It changes the mindset."

The chief acknowledged the rising cost of homes in Grand Rapids as a possible deterrent for officers.

Grand Rapids Police Capt. Mike Maycroft predicted that the No. 1 reason officers don't live in the city is because of family. Instead of moving his family to Grand Rapids when he was hired by the department, he settled down in a middle ground between his family in Muskegon, his wife's job in Holland and his job in Grand Rapids.

He said he can respond to an emergency in 15 minutes or less when he's on-call, and he doesn't believe the police department has had any issues with staffing in cases of emergency.

"We're trying to draw officers from everywhere and it's hard to get officers to apply," Maycroft said. "So casting a wide net throughout the state, we grab officers regionally who want to work here and they have families who live in the region but not necessarily the city."

As the president of the Grand Rapids Police Command Officers Association, Maycroft said he and other union representatives are "absolutely" in favor of incentives for officers who choose to live in the city.

"We would never discourage personnel from living in the city," Maycroft said. "It's a great city and we choose to work here for a reason.

First Ward Commissioner Jon O'Connor said he can see the pros and cons of living in the city an officer works for. He's interested in further discussing the topic of residency incentives for officers, as long as any future policy fairly affects both officers who move to the city and those who already reside in Grand Rapids.

"Having people in the community they live in and work in, you have a different level of understanding for the city and community members," O'Connor said. "At the same time, it's a stressful job and, like all of us, we want to get away after work."

In reviewing other police departments' incentive programs, Rahinsky said some cities have been more successful than others.

In 2011, Detroit's then-mayor Dave Bing announced a program that would incentivize officers to move into two Detroit neighborhoods - East English Village and Boston-Edison - at a discounted price.

Seven years later, Detroit has about 24 percent of the 2,411 sworn officers living in the city. Last month, Commissioner Jim Holley questioned the nonresident officers' ability to respond to an emergency mobilization in a timely manner.

Federal programs like "Officer Next Door" and "Homes for Heroes" already exist to offer savings for officers buying homes, but aren't limited to the city where they work.
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI - A man accused of drunken driving in a crash that killed a couple on a motorcycle had a history of drinking and driving - and had a suspended license when the crash occurred, police said.

Bruce Edward Ross, 63, of Coopersville, faces multiple charges in a crash on Sunday, Aug. 6, that killed Larry Hein, 72, of Marne, and his passenger, Joyce Hein, 67.

The Heins were riding a Harley-Davidson Trike, a three-wheel motorcycle, when the crash happened around 10 p.m. at Cleveland Street and 40th Avenue in Ottawa County's Wright Township.

Police said the Trike was going east on Cleveland Street when it struck the passenger side of a southbound sport-utility vehicle. The Heins were wearing helmets.

Ross, held on $50,000 bond, is charged with two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death, two counts of operating with a suspended license causing death, third-offense drunken driving, driving without insurance, unlawful use of registration and forgery of a license document, sheriff's Capt. Mark Bennett said.

Ross was arraigned Monday, Aug. 6, in Hudsonville District Court. He has not posted bond.
Kate Wagner has earned quite the following for her scathing and often hilarious take-downs directed at the rich and the lavish homes in which they live with her blog McMansion Hell.

On Monday, she set her sights on the sprawling home of Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos and her husband, Dick. Wagner, who holds a Master of Arts degree in architectural acoustics from Johns Hopkins University, held nothing back in her review of the home, which was completed in 2010.

The house sits on Lake Macatawa in Holland and was designed by Grand Rapids firm Via Design. Construction was handled by Scott Christopher Homes also out of Grand Rapids.

In particular, Wagner critiques the home for the shingle style, multiple roof types, more than a dozen window types and other general flaws.

"It's a classic case of too many cooks in the kitchen, and none of those cooks are good at their job," Wagner writes.

Wagner's biggest complaint appears to be the shingle style, which she says is a 19th-century style called eclecticism, which "is known for its extensive use of shingles as a building material." Wagner says the style is popular in the New England region.

"Even though Betsy is riffing on the shingle style, there is a difference between architectural complexity and a mess, just as there is a difference between a masterful use of vocabulary and replacing every word in a sentence with the longest synonym you can find in the thesaurus," Wagner writes.

She also mocks the DeVoses for having more dishwashers -- eight -- than bedrooms -- three -- in a house that is 22,000 square feet.

"Architecture is never a vacuum. This house sucks, but like all buildings, it is a reflection of both the people and the broader culture that make building it both possible and desirable," Wagner writes. "Those, too, irrefutably suck."

McMansion Hell launched in 2016 and has since become a viral blog that tackles a new mansion every few weeks.
President Donald Trump took his endorsements of U.S. Senate candidate John James and governor candidate Bill Schuette a step further ahead of the Michigan primary election, participating in a robo call sent to Republican primary voters Monday ahead of the Aug. 7 election.

In the call, Trump reiterates his support of the two candidates, calling them both "Trump guys" who would be strong on the border, tough on immigration and will cut your taxes.

Trump said James is "truly the real deal - he will be a star," adding that he has the chops to take on incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow.

In the U.S. Senate Republican primary, James is running against businessman and economist Sandy Pensler. Schuette is running against Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, state Sen. Patrick Colbeck and obstetrician Jim Hines in the Republican gubernatorial primary.

Both James and Schuette have touted their Trump endorsements in campaign literature, featuring Trump's likeness and his endorsement tweets in advertisements and on social media.

On Monday, Trump added an additional endorsement tweet supporting James' candidacy:
IMLAY CITY, MI - A man suspected of killing a motorcyclist in a hit-and-run accident was found dead in a Michigan field.

According to Imlay City Police Chief Scott Pike, 47-year-old Alexander George Waschull died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was last seen fleeing on foot from M-53 north of Newark Road in Imlay City where his Jeep struck and killed a motorcyclist at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 3.

Search crews located Waschall around 3 a.m. on Saturday after receiving a tip that he was in the area.

Waschull was known to law enforcement and had repeated contacts with police for weapons offenses, domestic violence, disorderly conduct and drunk driving.

Weapons were recovered from his Jeep at the scene of the crash, which he was prohibited from possessing under a protection order taken out against him.
OSCODA, MI -- Drinking water laced with high levels of poisonous chemicals may be to blame for cancer and other chronic disease among veterans and families who lived at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in northern Michigan, according to a new federal health report draft.

That conclusion, reached in July by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), sets the table for Congress to consider legislation that would force the Department of Veterans Affairs to extend health benefits to base veterans without making them somehow prove their illnesses are linked to chemical exposure.

No bill has yet been introduced, although U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Flint, says he's working on legislation similar to that which forced the VA to cover similar health claims at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, where drinking water was contaminated with chlorinated solvents.

Those same chemicals, notably benzene and trichloroethylene (TCE), were documented at extremely high levels in Wurstmith water when the former B-52 bomber base was active.

"We must do more to help veterans exposed to harmful chemicals during their military service," said Kildee in a statement. "It is troubling that veterans may have a higher risk of cancer and other health effects if they were exposed to TCE and other harmful chemicals."

"This report's findings demonstrate that all levels of government must do more to help veterans get the health care they need," he said.

The ATSDR report concludes that people who consumed or had skin contact with Wurtsmith water "may be at an increased risk for cancer." The finding is based on new lower risk levels for exposure to TCE and benzene than were used in a 17-year-old assessment, which called it "unknown" whether past contamination posed a hazard.

The updated report conclusions are based largely on long-term exposure over a period of years, but note that, for pregnant mothers, even short term exposure to TCE during the first trimester could have resulted in heart birth defects in their baby children.

The base opened in 1923 and closed in 1993. TCE was found in Wurtsmith water in 1977, but the report notes the drinking water wells on base "could have (been) contaminated for many years before the initial discovery." All wells were shut down by 1997, when the base switched to a municipal system which draws from Lake Huron.

The Air Force installed a groundwater treatment system to cleanup TCE in the early 1980s after being sued by the state of Michigan.

The ATSDR looked at past levels of TCE and benzene, but did not consider exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, contamination caused by base firefighters using chemical-based firefighting foam. The chemicals were found in Wurtsmith groundwater in 1998 but did not get significant attention until the state issued a local advisory for well owners in 2016.

According to the ATSDR, TCE levels in a well at the corner of Arrow Street and N. Skeel Avenue were as high as 5,173 parts-per-billion (ppb) during a 1977 test -- more than 1,000 times the EPA's current limit of 5-ppb for TCE in drinking water. TCE in another well on Jet Street near the present day Wurtsmith museum was 1,739-ppb.

"When it's all said and done, I think the exposures to TCE and vinyl chloride up there are going to be higher than Camp Lejeune," said Jerry Ensminger, a veteran who spearheaded the effort to get health benefits at Lejuene after the death of his daughter, Janey.

Ensminger began pushing for exposure-related benefits in 1997. In 2012, Congress passed a law named after his daughter that forced the VA to automatically presume diseases like adult leukemia, bladder, kidney and liver cancer, Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and Parkinson's disease were caused by base water exposure.

As with Wurtsmith, the initial ATSDR public health assessment of Lejeune contamination lowballed the exposure concern. It was eventually updated in 2009. The Veterans & Civilians Clean Water Alliance group of Wurtsmith veterans and families pushed the ATSDR to update the base report last year. Ensminger likened the hurdle to awaiting formal diagnosis of an obvious problem.

"You know your house is on fire. You see the fire and the smoke, but your house is not 'officially' on fire until the fire department gets there and says so," he said. "That's the same thing with these contamination sites and toxic exposures. You need an official to come in and say, 'yea, they were exposed at harmful levels.'"

"Now, somebody has to go to Capitol Hill."

Kildee said he's working both sides of the aisle for bipartisan support on a Wurtsmith bill, but did not offer a timeline or specifics. Congress has been appropriating money to address contamination at military bases recently, but those funds are specifically tied to PFAS exposure.

The cost of extending presumptive benefits to Wurtsmith veterans could be high. The VA estimated last year it will pay $2.2 billion by 2022 to Lejeune veterans under the new program, and that doesn't include coverage for certain civilians and family members.

Wurtsmith veteran Scott Flannery of Manassas, Va., lived on base in the late 1970s. He's considered completely and permanently disabled after a 32-year military career.

Flannery, who helped push for the health assessment update, said he's glad that everything has "come to fruition" but also hopes the federal government will "do the right thing with the issues affecting them now with the firefighting foam."

"I'm hoping all the best for all those who could have been potentially affected," Flannery said.
JACKSON, MI - Simon Cowell has some competition.

In Darci Lynne Farmer's route to victory on America's Got Talent in 2017, the teen singing ventriloquist introduced a senior citizen puppet named Edna Doorknocker to the judges. Doorknocker, who revealed in the act that she had a crush on Cowell, made an appearance in Jackson on Monday, Aug. 6.

During Darci Lynne's performance at the Jackson County Fair, Doorknocker the puppet admitted she was looking for a "cute guy."

"Wait hold on, what happened between you and Simon?" Darci Lynne asked the puppet. "Was it the age difference?"

Doorknocker was quick with a jab at Cowell.

"Yes. I'm looking for someone younger," she said. "Like that young man in the front row."

The gray-shirted man was eventually goaded onto the stage, where Doorknocker serenaded him with a love song - to the crowd's delight.

Petunia the singing rabbit, Oscar the stuttering mouse and Katie the yodeling cowgirl also made appearances Monday night. Darci Lynne performed some of the same songs she sang on America's Got Talent, including "Summertime" and "With a Little Help from My Friends."

Darci Lynne also sang Italian opera, did a bit of yodeling and sang a song without a puppet - as she said one of the most common questions she gets is if she can sing with her mouth open.

Heavy rain made an unscheduled appearance, forcing a 10-minute delay midway through the show. But the clouds subsided and the act finished under sunny skies.

"You guys are troopers," Darci Lynne said to the crowd. "Even in the rain we had a lot of fun, didn't we?"

Darci Lynne, 13, is the first America's Got Talent winner to perform at the Jackson County Fair. She's touring the nation with stops in places like Las Vegas, Chicago, Nashville and Detroit.

Pelican 212, a group of young singing siblings, opened the show for Darci Lynne. The family band has been featured on Steve Harvey's children's talent show "Little Big Shots" and performed at the Liberty Ball at Donald Trump's inauguration.
JACKSON, MI - The Amazing Race returns to Jackson for its sixth year this Saturday, bringing a new set of challenges to a new set of challengers.

During the event, teams of two race around downtown Jackson gathering clues and solving challenges testing their problem-solving skills, as much as their physical fitness, said event director Jacqueline Austin.

The race begins at 1 p.m. Aug. 11, in Horace Blackman Park. The exact route of the race is kept secret until the day of the event.

"There are about 20 to 25 challenges on the route, and it takes about four or five hours to complete the race," Austin said.

A maximum of 40 teams can participate, Austin said, with just about 20 of the slots currently filled. For regular teams, there is a $100 entry fee, while sponsored teams pay $175. Teams can register on Eventbrite.com.

Cash prizes are awarded to the top three fastest teams to complete the race and the three teams with the most points. In both categories, first place winners get $500, second place $300 and third place $100.

After the last team completes the race, an after party takes place in Horace Blackman Park. Part of the "Music on Tap" concert series, the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and Michigan Theatre will host Grand Rapids musician Mark Lavengood.

Admission is free, though a cash bar and other refreshments are available. Music starts at 7:30 p.m.

Proceeds from the registration fee go toward funding the event, and proceeds from the concert benefit the Jackson Symphony Orchestra.
JACKSON, MI - Starting at age 12, Jerry Price would fly from Florida to Michigan to work at his grandfather's French fry trailer - called Fiske Fries.

Flying back to Florida from the Jackson County Fair one year, Price accidentally caused a few headaches for his family.

"Mistakenly, my grandfather had trusted me to have all the keys in my pockets," Price said. "And nobody discovered that until I landed down (in Florida). My grandfather had to call a locksmith out and put all new locks on. It was not pretty. Eventually he forgave me."

Despite the error, Price would eventually take over his grandfather's business. Now, 40 to 50 years later, he and his wife Glenda are keeping the mouth-watering legacy of "fresh-peeled, fresh-cut, fresh-cooked Fiske French fries" alive.

Fiske Fries started in 1938 and has frequented fairs and festivals across the country for 80 years. Based in Hillsdale, the company now has 17 trailers and goes to about 60 events each year.

At the Jackson County Fair, the company has four trailers for fries, two for lemonade, one for elephant ears and one for Wisconsin cheese curds.

There's something different about Fiske Fries, customers claim.

Price credits a good potato - from a secret supplier - the use of pure vegetable shortening and the original Fiske fryer system for the quality product.

"Anytime you taste anything different, let me know," Price said. "We'll make it right."

French fries were a relatively new phenomenon when Fiske Fries started in 1938, Price said. Many restaurants abandoned the pure vegetable shortening for consistency as they expanded nationwide, Price said.

Showing up at events in Michigan, Ohio, South Carolina and Florida during different times of the year, customers tell Price they're excited to see Fiske Fries back every year.

Price says about 90 percent of the employees are Michiganders - and the majority of those are from Jackson.

"It's been a constant in a lot of people's lives," Price said. "There's been so many changes in our world and our society, but here's one thing - among others - that's a constant."

Parents and grandparents bring young children - hoping to share the same experience they had as children. With the hard work and long hours that come with the industry, Price said these stories are his reward.

"I was out in the midway, there was an elderly man who had his little grandchild. He says, 'Oh look, Fiske!'" Price said. "He turned to his grandchild and said, 'If it says Fiske, it's got to be good.' Those are humbling things."

Betty Collins is one of the many who remembers eating Fiske Fries as a kid - and adding the vinegar for additional flavor. Now, she's a 35-year veteran with the company - part of four generations in her family working in the trailers.

Collins rattles off that tongue-twisting catchphrase to many of her customers: "They're fresh-peeled, fresh-cut, fresh-cooked Fiske French fries."

With no family interested in taking over the business, Price isn't sure how long Fiske Fries will be around. For now, he still enjoys traveling across the country, meeting people and putting in the elbow grease in the fry trailers.

Price wouldn't share his age, saying, "Just put me down for older than dirt."

"As long as the folks like the French fries, we'll try to keep it going," Price said. "As far as how many more years, I'm not sure, to be honest with you.

"But if it continues on, we want the name Fiske to stand for something decent - like the people remember."
GRASS LAKE, MI -- The idea of two sets of identical twins marrying each other captured imaginations all over the world last week.

And for the matching pairs of Michigan mates who married over the weekend, all the attention leading up to their nuptials grew a bit overwhelming.

They decided to keep their weddings private, asking media to back off a bit from the matrimonial marvel as they wed on a majestic Michigan farm.

But the newlyweds decided afterward to allow the public a peek at their extraordinarily symmetrical celebration, releasing some incredible photos from their back-to-back nuptials to MLive/The Jackson Citizen Patriot.

Krissie Bevier married Zack Lewan at Eyry of the Eagle Farm Wedding and Reception Center in Grass Lake on Friday, Aug. 3.

Their twins, Kassie and Nick - who met first and later introduced their siblings - tied the knot Saturday, Aug 4.

All four stood in each other's weddings during the two-day celebration.

The brides grew up in Michigan Center. The grooms are from White Lake. It all started in psychology class at Grand Valley State University.

Their story has spread far and wide since being told on MLive.com a week ago. People and Time magazines, as well as Fox News and other national and international news organizations have featured the couples.

The four also appeared on the "Today" show on NBC on Thursday morning.

Check out the photo gallery above, and the full story of their courtship here.
JACKSON, MI - His mother Robyn Gretz wants closure, whatever that means.

His brother wonders whether this would be better, to know what some suspect, that Michael VanZandt is dead.

"Would you trade closure for hope that he is still alive?" Tyler VanZandt said. "I don't think I would."

More than two years ago, Michael, a Northwest high School graduate, disappeared in Hermosa Beach, Calif, about 80 miles south of his home in Lancaster in northern Los Angeles County.

On March 5, 2016, he went with friends to a pier lined with bars. Impatient in an entry line, he left to use the bathroom, lost track of his companions and never returned to his three children, his brothers or his mother in Michigan.

His story was first featured May 20 on the Investigation Discovery series "Disappeared." It remains available online.

The episode, titled "Just out of sight," shows security footage of Michael, 38, walking alone, within feet of his unknowing friends.

Months of searching and scouring for traces of the Air Force veteran, with helicopters or drones, by talking for days to strangers, revealed little. There have been hopeful, and then crushing developments, like credit card activity eventually deemed fraudulent. And now, the case has gone stale.

"There ain't a stich of evidence," his stepfather, Keith Gretz, said this summer, sitting with his wife Robyn in a Jackson restaurant booth. The two live across the street from Pleasant Lake and own a Jackson tool and engineering shop.

"There ain't a clue anymore."

The show brought some attention, but no substantive information or leads.

His family acknowledges the most likely scenario, that Michael, an exceptional swimmer who grew up on Jackson County lakes, went into the Pacific Ocean and fell victim to its cruel currents. He had been night swimming before while drinking, his brother said.

"More than 51 percent of me says he probably drowned," Tyler VanZandt said. "Even if it is 1 percent, you still have to give 110 percent of your effort to say that that 1 percent is not the case."

Michael wouldn't just leave. "I think if he's out there, there is something terribly wrong with him," Robyn Gretz said.

"I don't think he would ever do this, to his children, to us, to his family."

She gave birth to him when she was 17 and raised him mostly on her own. Always skinny, he was a shy, scared child. Taekwondo as a teenager gave him confidence.

"I just think because he had a kind soul that he wasn't that tough guy," she said.

Learning to defend himself altered him, she said.

Immediately after high school, he joined the Air Force. He had hoped to be a pilot, but his imperfect vision barred the possibility.

He was instead part of a specially trained security force, his mother said, and traveled the world. He met his wife, whom he married in 2001, while in Japan and did two tours in Iraq.

"If my son was going to go missing anywhere, I'm glad it was here," his mother said, wiping away tears. "If he went missing overseas, I don't know what we would do."

He left left the military in 2011, after about 12 years, and worked as a civilian at Edwards Air Force Base, north of Los Angeles

He wanted to be in California, where he could ski, mountain bike, dive and surf. Energetic and up-beat, he was always on the go with his sons, Keaton, 16, and Jayden, 12, and his daughter Kyleah, 11.

Michael emphasized seeing the world, getting outside, Tyler VanZandt said. "I think if I could say anything about him, I would just say he was a good dude, a good person.

"It wasn't like he was caught up in a lot of bad stuff and got what was coming to him."

Unknowing people jumped to unjustified conclusions, about the effects of his Air Force service or his then pending-divorce.

Michael and his wife had separated, but it was mutual and amicable. "We were able to still talk on a daily basis," she said in the aired episode.

The last night anyone saw him, he met a friend from work and others to watch mixed martial arts. The fight ended about 10 p.m. and they decided to go bar hopping, according to the "Disappeared" account.

Michael was restless and told his companions he would return shortly. When he didn't, his friend assumed he met a girl or encountered a familiar face.

He never answered any calls; they went straight to voicemail, and he did not arrive at the hotel, where his vehicle remained parked.

Tyler VanZandt, then living in Baltimore, went to California to help with the search. He was off work for weeks.

And he stayed. He now helps with his niece and nephews.

Wake positively, he says. "Your worst day has already happened."

Robyn and Keith Gretz are involved too with the children, who just returned home from a visit to Michigan.

On this day, over dinner, Robyn and Keith Gretz fondly discussed the kids, the positive memories they have of their dad, and the memories a mother has of her son.

When he was a teenager, the two would watch the stars from the grass.

She recalled the last time they talked. He was getting his hair cut, told her he'd call right back.

"What, did you do, get it colored and styled?" Robyn Gretz joked when he didn't do as promised.

The conversation ended with: "I love you."

She and her husband went to Hermosa Beach this year. She thought she would feel her son. "I didn't feel like he was there at all."

This confused her, though she knows the water in that resort town is the only logical place he could be.

Until she knows for certain, she will do whatever she can to keep his name out there, to keep his picture out there.

"He would never give up on us. I would never give up on him."
Update: The polls have closed. Results will be updated as they come in. Results are highlighted in bold once all precincts have reported.

JACKSON, MI - The ballots for Jackson County voters in the Tuesday, Aug. 7 primary election are chock full of choices.

Throughout the county, 13 millage proposals are being proposed in various districts, in addition to local, state and national races.

Registered voters don't have to be a member of a political party to vote. Voters, however, must stick with one political party for their entire ballot.

MLive Media Group has partnered with the League of Women Voters of Michigan to provide candidate information and other voting resources to readers. Each candidate was asked to answer a series of questions about their policy stances.

Information on state and federal races and many of Michigan's county and local races is available at Vote411.org - a website run by the League of Women Voters.

The polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Check back to this story after 8 p.m. for live election results as the numbers come in.

Here's a look at the contested races throughout Jackson County.

U.S. House of Representatives District 7, Democratic primary (100 percent reporting)

Gretchen Driskell: 52,193

Steven Friday: 9,054

Michigan Senate District 16, Republican primary (100 percent reporting)

Matt Dame: 10,296

Mike Shirkey: 17,948

Michigan House of Representatives District 64, Democratic primary (37 of 37 precincts reporting):

Brock Bachelder: 1,235

Sheila Troxel: 4,802

Michigan House of Representatives District 65, Republican primary: (100 percent reporting)

Todd Brittain: 2,986

Matt Eyer: 858

Sarah Lightner: 5,730

Carl Rice Jr.: 1,644

Jackson County Board of Commissioners District 1, Republican primary (8 of 8 precincts reporting):

Tony Bair: 977

Robert Donihue: 637

John T. Fenn: 146

Terry Langston: 558

Jackson County Board of Commissioners District 3, Republican primary (5 of 5 precincts reporting):

Russ Jennings: 661

Corey Kennedy: 898

Jackson County Board of Commissioners District 3, Democratic primary (5 of 5 precincts reporting):

Robin Puckett-Jervis: 669

John Spencer: 442

Jackson County Board of Commissioners District 6, Republican primary (6 of 6 precincts reporting):

Leland Prebble: 1,138

Allan Tompkins: 1,396

Jackson County Board of Commissioners District 8, Republican primary (9 of 9 precincts reporting):

Jonathan Williams: 492

John Wilson: 568

Jackson County Board of Commissioners District 9, Republican primary (5 of 5 precincts reporting):

David Elwell: 1,070

Nyan Klavon: 949

Hanover Township Supervisor, Republican primary (2 of 2 precincts reporting):

Jeffery Heath: 428

Marc Smith: 230

Grass Lake Township Trustee, Republican primary (3 of 3 precincts reporting):

Barry Butterfield: 445

Robert Kraft: 437

Jackson County animal control and shelter millage: (63 of 63 precincts reporting)

Yes: 19,008

No: 11,734

Jackson County parks millage: (63 of 63 precincts reporting)

Yes: 18,020

No: 12,700

Northwest Community Schools bonding proposal: (10 of 10 precincts reporting)

Yes: 3,039

No: 3,427

Concord Township road millage renewal: (1 of 1 precinct reporting)

Yes: 388

No: 192

Concord Township road millage increase: (1 of 1 precinct reporting)

Yes: 221

No: 354

Western School District sinking fund millage: (9 of 9 precincts reporting)

Yes: 1,468

No: 1,589

Sandstone Charter Township police protection and public safety services millage proposal: (3 of 3 precinct reporting)

Yes: 847

No: 335

Litchfield Community Schools operating millage renewal: (62 percent reporting)

Yes: 296

No: 135

Litchfield Community Schools sinking fund millage renewal: (42 percent reporting)

Yes: 272

No: 163

Litchfield Community Schools sinking fund millage increase: (62 percent reporting)

Yes: 226

No: 208

Marshall Public Schools operating millage renewal: (100 percent reporting)

Yes: 3,248

No: 1,354

Michigan Center School District operating millage: (2 of 2 precincts reporting)

Yes: 714 *subject to change due to ballot omission

No: 481

Stockbridge Community Schools operating millage renewal:

Yes: 581

No: 263
KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI -- Follow along here for live-updated, unofficial election results as votes are tallied Tuesday, Aug. 7.

Residents of Kalamazoo County will cast their ballots in primary contests for governor, U.S. Congress, state legislative seats and various other local candidates and proposals.

Winners of Tuesday's partisan primary contests will move forward to ballots in the upcoming November general election.

Once a race has been called for a particular candidate or issue position, the winner will be shown in bold.

Polls close at 8 p.m. and results will be updated below as they are available:

KALAMAZOO COUNTY:

Board of Commissioners - 4th District Democratic primary (two-year term)

10 of 10 precincts reporting

Michael Seals: 1,540

Shequita Lewis: 1,427

Board of Commissioners - 8th District Republican primary (two-year term)

11 of 11 precincts reporting

John Gisler: 1,646

Kraig Lee: 758

Board of Commissioners - 9th District Republican primary (two-year term)

10 of 10 precincts reporting

Dale Shugars: 1,890

Brian Kovacik: 562

Board of Commissioners - 10th District Republican primary (two-year-term)

9 of 9 precincts reporting

Steve Carra: 1,458

Nasim Ansari: 924

Senior Services tax

107 of 107 precincts reporting

yes: 34,620

no: 17,945

Mattawan Schools $19.1 million bond proposal

10 of 10 precincts reporting

yes: 2,474

no: 2,161

Mattawan Schools operating tax

10 of 10 precincts reporting

yes: 3,222

no: 1,411

Cooper Township tax

5 of 5 precincts reporting

yes: 1,040

no: 1,440

Galesburg/Charleston Memorial District Library

2 of 2 precincts reporting

yes: 421

no: 297

Augusta-Ross Township District Library tax

2 of 2 precincts reporting

yes: 1,152

no: 572

Visit the Kalamazoo County Clerk's website for full, precinct-by-precinct results.

For the latest unofficial results from other counties in Southwest Michigan:
KALAMAZOO, MI -- An agreement was finalized to provide clean water to residents who were told to stop using their taps after high levels of PFAS were found in the Parchment water system.

Don't drink the water just yet. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality is testing the Parchment city water system for remnants of per- and polyflourinated substances that were found at levels more than 20 times greater than an EPA health advisory in late-July.

Kalamazoo Public Services Director James Baker said it is "not possible" for water from Parchment to contaminate the Kalamazoo water system.

Monday, the Kalamazoo City Commission and Parchment City Commission approved an agreement to provide one year's worth of potable water to the city of Parchment. Parchment will pay the cost of connecting its system to Kalamazoo's and will pay a bulk rate to Kalamazoo for the water supplied.

A Kalamazoo rate consultant estimated it will cost $216,000 to provide water to Parchment, which will be paid on a quarterly basis beginning in November. Water use will be metered. Parchment will also pay $300,000 to cover the cost of connecting the two water systems.

Parchment will continue to bill its customers for their water use, which includes some residents in Cooper Township. Baker said rates will not change for Parchment water customers.

The city of Parchment will have to decide if it will become a wholesale customer or retail customer in the future.

On July 29, Lt. Governor Brian Calley declared a state of emergency three days after high amounts of PFAS were found entering the Parchment water supply system.

An estimated 3,100 people in the city of Parchment and parts of Cooper Township were told to stop using water from the tap on July 26.

According to federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, PFAS compounds are known to increase the risk of cancer, kidney disease, thyroid conditions and auto-immune disorders. PFAS can be found in blood and at much lower levels in urine, breast milk and in umbilical cord blood.

Two rounds of DEQ tests showed highly contaminated water entering the municipal water system from three source wells. The latest test showed one well was contaminated with PFOS and PFOA, two PFAS compounds, at levels more than 26 times greater than the EPA health advisory.

After the water system was found to be contaminated, the city of Kalamazoo started working to supply clean water to Parchment.

Kalamazoo officials applauded the public services department for its swift response to the emergency.

"This is the kind of work that goes down in history in cities like ours and you will be one of the people remembered," Commissioner Shannon Sykes Nehring said of Baker and his team. "I hope you realize what a big thing this is."

Baker said he is proud to lead the department. Their dedication is an aspect of the situation that he hopes is recognized by the community.

A temporary connection was made to flush the Parchment system of contaminated water. The night of July 26, Parchment's water system was drained into sanitary sewers, which flow into Kalamazoo's water reclamation plant.

Some areas where water was flushed were not near a sanitary sewer, which caused contaminated water to flow into tributaries of the Kalamazoo River. Baker didn't know Monday how much water made it into the river, but said the decision was made with knowledge of its potential environmental impact.

The decision made in concert with the DEQ water resources division. The flushing had to happen to protect public health, Baker said.

"I know there is a lot of excitement out there about what we did, but we trust (the DEQ) is making the right decisions and are working with us to ensure we're doing as much as we can to protect the environment as well," Baker said."

Last week, crews worked to hookup both water systems at three connection points; on East G Avenue; Park and Orient Avenues; Spanish Road and Virginia Avenue.

Parchment's groundwater wells were shut off and steps were taken to prevent any backflow from entering the Kalamazoo water system.

While visiting one of the connection sites Sunday, Aug. 5, Gov. Rick Snyder said the connection is likely a permanent solution for Parchment residents.

It depends on whether tests taken last week by the DEQ will show low levels of PFAS in Parchment's pipes. Results are expected sometime this week, officials said, and additional tests could follow.

Last week, results of tests at 15 water pumping stations serving the Kalamazoo municipal drinking water system found between 2 parts per trillion and 19 ppt of PFOS and PFOA in three stations. According to environmental chemists, the proposed ATSDR "minimum risk levels" translate roughly to 7-ppt for PFOS and 11-ppt for PFOA.
GRAND HAVEN, MI - The distraught girlfriend of a Grand Haven drowning victim whose safety police were concerned about has been located, prompting the cancelation of an advisory.

Lansing Township police on Monday issued an Endangered Missing Advisory for Danielle Dallys Martinez. The advisory said Martinez was suicidal and possibly heading for Grand Haven.

Martinez, 21, of Lansing Township was located in the city of Lansing, and the advisory has been canceled, according to spokeswoman for the Lansing Township Police Department.

She did not have any information on Martinez's condition.

Jeremiah Diaz, 20, was one of two men who drowned in Lake Michigan just offshore from the Grand Haven beach on Sunday, Aug. 5. Three other people were hospitalized after being pulled out of the lake.
MUSKEGON, MI - It took a "very, very long time," but Muskegon Public Schools' superintendent is now on a plan of assistance after his job performance was rated "minimally effective" five months ago.

The school board voted 6-0 to approve the plan during a meeting on Tuesday, July 24. The document includes five goals in the areas of governance and board relations, community relations, staff relations, and business and finance.

Muskegon Public Schools Superintendent Justin Jennings

The board rated Superintendent Justin Jennings "minimally effective" in February. Michigan law requires that superintendents ranked less than effective be placed on an "individual development plan," which needs board approval.

This was Jennings' first review after being hired during January 2017.

When they released his "minimally effective" rating, board members cited low student test scores and "less than desirable" student achievement. The plan of assistance doesn't directly touch on improving achievement, but rather is focused on finance and Jennings' relations with the board, teachers and community.

Board President Cindy Larson took responsibility for the "very, very long time" it took to get Jennings on a formal plan of assistance. Jennings already had been working from a set of goals that hadn't been approved by the board.

Those goals were developed by a committee of Trustees Bill O'Brien, Zachary Anderson and Larson that was tasked with creating the plan of assistance.

"I thought the plan of assistance was the goals. They're the same, but we needed to have two different documents," Larson said. "That was my doing. We've got to try to move forward. I had a misunderstanding. I'm of the mind that I don't want to look back. Now we've got some specifics that Justin is already working on. I just feel really good about where we are."

Jennings' evaluation states that a plan of assistance would be put in place and reviewed every three months. The plan states that it will be reviewed on Tuesday, Sept. 18.

"We have already implemented the plan in my everyday work and day-to-day operation of the district," Jennings said in an email on June 26. "Next steps are to set up goals for the 18-19 school year and continue to move MPS forward."

The plan is meant to help develop skills that will improve job performance.

Some key points make changes to hiring practices, allowing board members to participate in interviews for administrative positions and shifting reference checks to human resources officials. It also requires Jennings to create guidelines for merit-based raises.

In addition, the plan requires board approval for any superintendent expenses above $1,000.

"Less than desirable" student achievement was noted in the board's summary of the review in February. "Student learning" is referenced once in the plan, in the staff relations goal.

When asked how the plan addresses student achievement, Larson said to contact Jennings.

"We did not lay out the steps for him to arrive at the improvement of the test scores for our students," she said. "We didn't write his goals for student improvement, that's what Justin needs to do. The details of it will be for Justin to put together."

The plan also says that expulsions need to be brought to the board.

Larson said that expulsions have consistently been brought to the board, and that including that language was "just a reinforcement."

The district came under fire last year when it increased spending on administrative salaries by more than $500,000 in fiscal year 2017-18. The increase was revealed by an MLive investigation in October.

That had a budget impact of about $244,000 in 2017-18, said Catherine Kloska, the district's chief financial officer. The school year ended with a deficit of $851,781, as approved by the board on Tuesday, June 19. The deficit was drawn from the fund balance, putting it at about 5 percent of expenditures.

Since at least December, the board has been split on whether Jennings is fit for his job.

Secretary Pro-tem Billie Bruce called for Jennings' dismissal in January. In December 2017, the board discussed a $100,000 severance package for Jennings over text message.

In May, Secretary Lynnette Marks called for Jennings' resignation in a failed motion that was supported by Bruce and Trustee Zachary Anderson.

Here are the goals set for Jennings in the plan of assistance:

Governance and board relations, goal No. 1:

Create a strategic plan with a theory of action for the central office, administration, teachers and staff, scholars and families, and community.

Improve in consistency of communication and transparency through updates to the board, giving the same information to all board trustees, bringing expulsions to the board, having consistent expectations, notifying the board of level three or higher grievances

Governance and board relations, goal No. 2:

A process will be instituted and implemented in which hiring practices and committee structure are defined, and all reference checks will be done by human resources.

The process shall include the opportunity for a member of the schools and teachers subcommittee to participate in the interviews of all potential central office and building-level administrators.

Personnel reports will include the staffing level and changes with third party contractors, including EDUStaff, Enviroclean and Chartwells.

Community relations, goal No. 3:

The superintendent shall continue to improve in community relations, including meeting with parents, clergy, community members, rotary, social justice committee, city commission, media, parent and student advisory committee and bi-annual meetings with the city of Muskegon to maintain open communication with district stakeholders.

Staff relations, goal No. 4:

The superintendent will increase communication and understanding with staff and teachers. The district will implement professional development for staff to administer, foster and maintain a safe work environment that facilitates student learning.

Encourage administration to communicate more with staff

Distribute monthly newsletters

Participate in Lunch & Learn with building staff

Conduct staff surveys

Use thorough processes and rollout for big changes

Business and finance, goal No. 5:

By Nov. 15, 2018, a two- to three-year projection will be presented to the board to plan and analyze how to maintain at least a 5 percent fund balance.
Eight months after the record was set, the Mendocino Complex fire in California is now the largest in state history as it has burned more than 443 square miles and remains a threat to more than 10,000 buildings.

On Monday, officials reported that the fire -- twin fires being treated as one -- had grown to more than 266,000 acres over the weekend and was the fourth largest in state history. As of the last update on Tuesday, Aug. 7, Cal Fire reports the Mendocino Complex fire covers 290,962 acres in Northern California and has destroyed 143 structures, damaged 26 and remains a threat to 11,300.

"We broke the record," Scott McLean, Cal Fire deputy chief told the Los Angeles Times. "That's one of those records you don't want to see.

"It is extremely fast, extremely aggressive, extremely dangerous. Look how big it got, just in a matter of days ... Look how fast this Mendocino Complex went up in ranking. That doesn't happen. That just doesn't happen."

Officials say the fire is 34 percent contained, and that it estimates it to be fully contained by Sept. 1. CNN reports the fire has killed two people and injured 11 others.

The Associated Press reports that while the Mendocino fire surpassed the Thomas Fire in terms of acreage, the Thomas Fire killed two people and was responsible for burning 440 square miles and destroying more than 1,000 buildings.

As for the Mendocino Complex, that fire has been mostly burning in remote areas in Northern California. A.P. reports more than 14,000 firefighters are battling nearly 17 separate wildfires throughout he state. As of Monday, the news organization reported wildfires were responsible for eight deaths and the destruction of more than 1,000 homes.

The Trump Administration approved a major disaster declaration on Sunday "to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires and high winds."

President Donald Trump tweeted on Sunday that "California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire spreading!"

Smoke visible on the River Fire is a planned strategic firing operation near Cow Mountain #mendocinocomplex @LakeCoSheriffCA @MendocinoNF @GlennCountyOES pic.twitter.com/10qjUuoqIU  CAL FIRE Mendocino (@CALFIRE_MEU) August 6, 2018

More resources have arrived from out of the country to help support the fire fight. Thank you to our federal partners @R5_Fire_News and firefighters from Australia and New Zealand for your continued partnership. https://t.co/Vnqjev54b4  CAL FIRE PIO (@CALFIRE_PIO) August 6, 2018

Smoke from 250 miles above. This image of the Carr and Ferguson fires was captured from the vantage point of @ESA astronaut @Astro_Alex on Aug. 3 from the International @Space_Station. Details: https://t.co/7YF116Jzij pic.twitter.com/BubwhEOkBY  NASA (@NASA) August 6, 2018
The Trump administration announced it will reinstate sanctions on Iran in hopes of ending the country's nuclear development, support for terrorist groups and participation in the war in Syria. The reinstatement of sanctions comes as a result of the administration's decision in May to withdraw from the Obama-era Iran nuclear deal. Critics of sanctions say they will only worsen America's relationship with its allies and dangerously destabilize Iran. What do you think?

PERSPECTIVES

Vice President Mike Pence supported the sanctions in a Twitter message accompanying the President's announcement.

Today, our Admin will begin re-imposing harsh sanctions against Iran. The US withdrew from the disastrous nuclear agreement to negotiate a new deal that makes the world safer. We are determined to change Irans threatening behavior & keep them from ever becoming a nuclear nation. pic.twitter.com/9oq0lUN2j6  Vice President Mike Pence (@VP) August 6, 2018

By removing the U.S. from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and reinstating sanctions, the Trump administration is dramatically reducing the power and authority of the previously created coalition. As former President Barack Obama explained in a Facebook post on May 8:

The strength of this coalition is based on maintaining a unified front against Iran. After announcing the reinstatement of the sanctions, the European Union announced its continued commitment to the JCPOA. The BBC reported that in June the EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini in conjunction with the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the U.K., announced a Blocking Statute to protect European companies doing business in Iran.

The Blocking Statute will allow EU companies to recoup losses due to the U.S. sanctions and bans all EU companies from complying with the reinstated policies. The lack of a unified front then weakens the U.S policy.

Iran deal: EU shields firms from US law

The JCPOA focused primarily on ending the country's ability to build nuclear weapons. By reinstating sanctions, the New York Timesreported, the Trump administration was expanding its goals and demanding "that Iran end all nuclear enrichment and development of nuclear-capable missiles, release all American citizens, end its support for Hezbollah, Hamas, Islamic Jihad and Houthi militias and withdraw its forces from Syria." In a May interview with Vox, Richard Goldberg, an analyst at the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and an architect of the original Iran sanctions, argued their reinstatement would help further these expanded goals.

There is concern, however, that sanctions will hit middle class Iranians far harder than they will hit policy-makers in the Iranian government. Vox writes:

The worry is that a dramatic decrease in average Iranians' quality of life could encourage the rise of hardliners within the government.

The Tylt is focused on debates and conversations around news, current events and pop culture. We provide our community with the opportunity to share their opinions and vote on topics that matter most to them. We actively engage the community and present meaningful data on the debates and conversations as they progress. The Tylt is a place where your opinion counts, literally. The Tylt is an Advance Local Media, LLC property. Join us on Twitter @TheTylt, on Instagram @TheTylt or on Facebook, we'd love to hear what you have to say.
An experimental warning system is being installed around some of the Great Lakes. This warning system will try to predict Great Lakes 'tidal waves', also called meteotsunamis.

A meteotsunami is a wave generated by the wind force of a severe thunderstorm. As a severe wind gust pushes out from a thunderstorm over the Great Lakes, it can get force behind a wave. The wave builds in size, and can be significantly higher than other waves at the time.

Some of these large waves have even come onshore and killed people along the Great Lakes shoreline. There have been killer meteotsunamis at Chicago, Holland, MI and Grand Haven, MI.

Now an experimental network of weather sensors will attempt to predict meteotsunamis before they strike the shoreline.

By this fall there will be 29 specialized air pressure sensors around Lake Michigan and Lake Erie. These air pressure sensors will provide rapid, near real-time measurements.

Locations of rapid report pressure sensors in the experimental network

Wind gusts rushing out of a thunderstorm are a probable producer of meteotsunamis. It's also thought that rapid air pressure changes can push or pull on the water surface, and produce a big wave.

The current sensors on buoys and weather stations around the Great Lakes only measure air pressure every 10 minutes. The experimental meteotsunami prediction network will measure air pressure every minute.

Greg Cutrell, project scientist at LimnoTech, says scientists are looking for rapid air pressure declines, which often happen before a severe thunderstorm. The project hasn't set pressure fall values that would raise a red flag to the possibility of a meteotsunami.

Cutrell says the end goal is to get a meteotsunami warning to the public. By spring 2019 the data will be shared with the National Weather Service. If a condition warrants alerting the public to a possible meteotsunami, the National Weather Service could get the alert out through the same communication channels used for severe thunderstorm warnings.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 7)  President Rodrigo Duterte gave 102 policemen a tongue lashing in Malacanang Tuesday.

They are cops facing different administrative and criminal cases.

"Wala kayong silbi para sa akin. Salot kayo sa lipunan," the President told them.

[Translation: You are useless to me. You are a menace to society.]

He addressed them with curses and expletives, warning them that if they continued doing what they do, they would be killed.

"Kagaya ang ginagawa ninyo, madali man magpatay ng tao. Sundan mo lang sa likod, paputukan mo, tapos lakad ka lang, kalma," Duterte said.

[Translation: Like what you do, it's easy to kill a person. Just follow him, fire at his back, then walk away calmly.]

The President added, "Isang newspaper lang naman, isang sigawan. Ang ingay diyan sa TV, dalawang araw lang, tatlong araw, tapos na. Hanggang diyan lang naman. Media? Hanggang diyan lang. Publication, headline tapos wala na. History ka na."

[Translation: It's just one newspaper article, one instance of shouting. The noise on TV, that's just two, three days then it's over. It's only that. Media? They only go so far. Publication, a headline then nothing. You're history.]

The policemen's offenses range from kidnapping, rape, robbery extortion, involvement in the illegal drug trade, and serious illegal detention.

Some are facing administrative cases for reasons like going on absence without leave (AWOL), non-appearance in court duties, and neglect of duty.

The group also included three Taguig City policemen, who were recently relieved and detained for their involvement in kidnap-for-ransom operations. They were in the Palace in handcuffs.

"Bakit kayo napasok dito mga animal kayo? Para naman kayong  p**** i** ang mga kamukha aso na eh. Alam mo, totoo lang mabuti na lang maraming tao, may opisyal dito, hindi niyo  kung hindi, kanina ko pa kayo pinagpapalo," the President said.

[Translation: You animals, why are you here? You are like...bastards looking like dogs. You know, it's a good thing there are a lot of people here, there are officials present  or else, I would be hitting you.]

President Duterte said he doesn't understand why criminals insist on joining the police force.

He lamented how the Philippine National Police's (PNP) efforts to improve their image are destroyed because of erring cops.

He also addressed the relatives of the so-called erring policemen.

"Kayong mga pamilya nakikinig ngayon, nandito itong mga p****** i** mga asawa ninyo kapatid, anak. Huwag tayong magsisihan," he said.

[Translation: The families listening now, here are your bastard husbands, siblings, children. Let's not blame each other.]

"'Pag namatay itong mga p****** i** 'to, huwag kayo pumunta sa amin at magsisigaw kayo ng 'human rights, human rights, due process.' Wina-warningan ko na kayo eh," the President added.

[Translation: If these bastards die, don't come running to us shouting human rights, human rights, due process. I've been warning you.]

President Duterte left the policemen waiting at the Palace grounds while he presided a joint command conference with the PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

"Huwag kayong umalis diyan. Gutumin kayo [Stay there and starve]," Duterte said before he left them.
Google hosted its second Google for Nigeria event where the company made a number of big announcements aimed at helping people in Nigeria, and across Africa, benefit from the opportunities the web has to offer.

 dennizn via 123RF

Google Go: will soon read web pages out loud and highlight each word so users can follow along.

YouTube Go: users will be able to browse downloaded YouTube Go videos, saved as .yt files, right from the gallery on their phones.

Google Maps Go: will now provide users with turn-by-turn directions, whether theyre travelling by car, by bus or on foot.

Android Go: Launched in Nigeria and 29 other African countries earlier this year, the Go OS gives people coming online for the first time a powerful and reliable smartphone experience. Across Africa, Transsion, Nokia, Huawei, and Mobicel have launched various devices, starting under $50.

In a bid to make the internet more easily accessible to people in Nigeria, Google announced the launch of Google Station : a program to provide high quality, high-speed Wi-Fi hotspots in partnership with 21st Century, one of the largest fibre network providers in Nigeria.Google Station will be rolling out in 200 locations in five cities across Nigeria by the end of 2019, bringing Wi-Fi to millions of people, says Google Nigeria country director, Juliet Ehimuan-Chiazor. Sites include markets, transport hubs, shopping malls, universities, and more. Nigeria is the fifth country to get Google Station, after India, Indonesia, Thailand and Mexico.Google also announced the update of several products from its Go initiative, which were launched in the past year. The Go product suite aims to give people with low bandwidth connections and low-RAM devices the best possible Google experience. These new features include:Over 2.5 million of the 10 million Africans Google promised to train by 2022 have been trained through the Digital Skills Programme. Google has trained a further 9,000 Africans in mobile app development and Googles Launchpad Accelerator Africa initiative graduated 12 promising startups from across the continent in June.The application process of the ongoing Google Impact Challenge, part of Googles $20m Google.org commitment to Africa over the next five years, closed with over 5,500 entries. The process of selecting the 36 finalists has begun.We are offering new solutions to improve and expand access in Nigeria and across Africa; these launches demonstrate our commitment to Africa through products built to help people in Africa to make the most of the Internet, concludes Ehimuan-Chiazor.
FCB Joburg has created a new word, as well as a 360 campaign embracing traditional and new media, to assist Absa Group, formerly Barclays Africa Group, in its relaunch in Africa.

The groups new brand strategy and identity were co-created by OgilvyRED (New York), Grid Worldwide and Yellowwood, in a year-long process that started in 2017. FCB Joburgs responsibility was to assist Absa launch these on 11 July when the name change took effect in South Africa, and communicate them to the groups internal and external stakeholders on the continent in the months ahead.The development of our new strategy and identity were governed by four principles: collaborative to ensure every voice was heard, bold to hold us to the highest standards, fact-based so that we would operate with rigour and objectivity, and innovative to reflect the new world we were creating, explained head of Absa Group Marketing, David Wingfield.The process resulted in a new business purpose statement: where we see ourselves as enablers, helping individuals, businesses and society to bring your possibility to life. It also resulted in a fresh brand being created as an expression of our new identity as an independent African bank with global scalability. We tasked FCB Joburg with communicating this, Wingfield said.Absas purpose is inspired by the African continent, said FCB Joburg Executive Creative Director, Gareth Paul.This continent and its people have an amazing way of getting things done. They have a way of turning any adversity into an opportunity. There wasnt a word out there that described this age-old attitude, and that is how we came up with the word Africanacity. Africanacity: its Africas ingenuity, tenacity, creativity, audacity and positivity al rolled into one. And its how Absa will get things done too.The Africanacity campaign conceived by FCB Joburg is a 360 campaign that comprises a 97-second film, a 60-second television commercial directed by Gentlemens Greg Rom, radio executions in most of South Africas official languages, out-of-home, print, as well as an extensive social media campaign.Featuring a soundtrack that could only come from Africa, the TVC is a collage of vignettes showcasing the innovative ways people in Africa get things done, as well as their ability to embrace technology to keep pace with change.View the launch ad here and watch out for the follow-on breaking later this year:FCB Joburg has contributed to a number of large rebrands in the past, most noticeably Vodacom several years ago, but our work on the Absa refresh in terms of timings and number of elements exceeds them all, said FCB Joburg Managing Director, Thabang Skwambane.As lead agency, we were tremendously proud to be entrusted with the task of pulling together so many people from so many different agencies and industry suppliers; at times it felt as if this rebrand was about the industry coming together with one clients best interest at heart.The creative task, the production effort and the co-ordination facilitation this rebrand involved really challenged the core team at FCB Joburg. With the assistance of the other agencies involved and their tireless suppliers, as well as everyone else at 164 Katherine Street, they did a spectacular job. Well done, FCB Joburg and well done SAs ad industry.
Britannia Industries, which completed its 100th year of operations recently, plans to step up its research and development to bring to market new innovative products beyond biscuits.

Britannia Managing Director Varun Berry, said that the company expects its non-biscuit business to be equal to its highest grossing biscuits business in the next few years. Currently, biscuits account for nearly 70% of Britannias overall business. Britannia Industries has earmarked Rs 30 crore towards research and development, which will help the company launch 50 new products.

The company is investing an additional Rs 50 crore on one campaign alone in the next 3 months in order to renew its marketing push with the new logo. The company unveiled the new logo on Monday to commemorate its 100th year.

A lot of investment will also go towards modernising manufacturing plants with technology. It will also help us optimise costs, which will in turn help us bring down price-points on some products, Berry said.

The company is already in the process of launching filled croissants and has partnered with Greece-based Chipita for this endeavour.

The company, which has a presence in more than 79 countries, is in the process of opening a plant in Nepal, where it has already become the market leader. It is also eyeing expansions across West Asian and North African markets.

We already have presence in several countries. Now that we are embarking on our next milestone, we will also create a manufacturing presence in more international markets. We will go for one country every year, Berry added.

Additionally, Britannias new Ranjangaon plant will be commercialised in the next couple of months, while the Mundra plant is already operational. Britannias in-house manufacturing share now stands at 65%. Earlier, the company produced just about 30% of all its products in-house.

Berry said that the company would like to strengthen its presence in the categories it has presence in, and build strong market in the segments where the company is weak. It will also look for partnerships in the areas where the company is not present. Basically, the aim is to become a total global foods company, and become the largest food company in India in next few years, Berry said.

(Inputs from PTI)
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Kitchen appliances maker and owner of the Prestige brand, TTK Prestige, is looking to be Rs 5,000-crore company in five years. In an interaction with Moneycontrol, Chandru Kalro, Managing Director, TTK Prestige said the company has lined up a capital expenditure of Rs 250 crore for the next three years to enhance the capacity in India.

Our next round of capital expenditure (Capex) cycle is on. We are looking to spend about one-third of the Rs 250 crore capex every year for the next three years, he said.

While Prestige is a market leader in induction cooktops, rice cookers, and pressure cookers, Kalro said they are also working towards increasing their business from the mixer-grinder segment.

For Q1FY19, TTK Prestige's profit was Rs 35.9 crore. In the June quarter last year the company had posted a one-time exceptional income of Rs. 128.96 crore on account of monetisation of property development rights. Net of this exceptional item the profit was Rs 27.02 crore for that quarter.

Kalro said the goods and services tax (GST) did not have an impact on the business and that it has completely settled down at present. We saw a growth in all the segments as well as the geographies. We hope to carry it forward."

He explained the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana that aims to provide clean cooking fuel (LPG) to women, has been another factor aiding rural demand to pick up.

There has been a deliberate premiumisation of Prestige as a brand, according to Kalro. He added they have positioned it as a mass-premium brand.

The company acquired UK-cookware brand Horwood Homewares in April 2016. Last year, the latters brand Judge was launched in India. Kalro said that this brand will offer the SEC B and C segments across smaller towns, quality kitchen solutions at lower price points.

Judge is our defense strategy where there is a danger of losing market share due to pricing. But wherever there is an opportunity, we will push Prestige as the first option, he added.

On the other hand, Prestige products would be sold through the Horwood Homewares distribution channel globally. The products, he said, would primarily constitute pressure cookers and cookware.

In the next five years, Kalro said the aim was to touch revenues of Rs 5,000 crore from Rs 2,000 crore now. This, he said, would be through a mix of organic and inorganic growth.

When it comes to inorganic growth through acquisitions, we would look at those business segments where we do not have a footprint, he added.

In product distribution, 90 percent of the revenues come in from brick-and-mortar stores while 10 percent comes from the online channel.
TVS Apache RR 310 | The TVS Apache RR 310 may have launched in December, last year, but it is worth talking about. Developed out of the Akula concept, TVS Motors has culminated all of their 35 years of racing experience into this bike. Extensively wind tunnel-tested, the Apache RR 310 features a reverse-inclined 312cc single-cylinder that was co-developed with BMW. The engine makes 34 PS of power and 27.5 Nm of torque. (Image source: TVS)

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TVS Motor Company, India's fourth largest two-wheeler maker on Tuesday posted 13.2 percent rise in net profit for the quarter ended June 2018, missing estimates.

Standalone net profit of the company grew to Rs 146.6 crore for the reporting quarter as compared to Rs 129.5 crore posted in the same quarter a year ago. A Reuters poll had expected the net profit to come in at Rs 173 crore.

The company which makes bikes under the brands Apache and Star and scooters under the brands Jupiter and Scooty saw its two-wheeler volumes grow by 14 percent to 8,92,754 units as compared to 7,85,071 units sold in the same quarter a year ago.

Three wheeler sales for the reporting quarter stood at 35,520 units, a growth of 172 percent compared to 13,037 units sold in the same quarter last year.

Standalone revenues came in at Rs 4,153.7 crore, a growth of 22.2 percent as against Rs 3,399.5 crore posted in the same quarter last year. The Reuters poll had expected revenues to come in at Rs 4,220 crore.

EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) grew by 45 percent to Rs 306.4 crore and margin expanded by 120 basis points to 7.4 percent compared to year-ago.
A Bengaluru-based start-up was left clueless when a potential hire never turned up to collect his offer letter. He could not be contacted on his phone or e-mail. This was because he had ghosted the company after being retained by his current employer.

Ghosting, a phenomenon where potential employees suddenly cut off all communications during the last stage of negotiation, is now being tackled through manual interventions and use of artificial intelligence (AI).

In India, about 35 percent potential hires drop off the talent acquisition pipeline. This means out of every 10 hires, about 3-4 people ghost the employer. Ghosting occurs either because the candidate has a better offer or has been retained by his employer.

Chennai-based AVTAR Group has launched a consulting firm Bruhat Insights Global that will use AI and big data to tackle ghosting and increase offer acceptance ratios.

Saundarya Rajesh, Chairman, Bruhat Insights Global, said ghosting leads to severe time-lags in the market plans of start-ups and entrepreneurs and results in loss of revenue for both businesses and the recruitment fraternity.

Ghosting as a term originated in the dating world and referred to a situation where a romantic interest suddenly stops all forms of communication with the other person.

The recruitment market in India is estimated at Rs 3,100 crore, according to EY Human Resources Solution Industry study. Rajesh said if the potential revenue loss of about Rs 1,000 crore caused by ghosting is reduced even by 50 percent, the industry stands to gain a whopping Rs 500 crore.

In India, the average cost to hire varies from Rs 25,500-Rs 50,000 per candidate depending on the industry and sector. This includes the cost of the internal talent acquisition team, the cost of subscribing to databases, retainers to search firms, success fees paid to consultants, among others.

Rajesh added that when candidates drop off the radar after engaging with the company in sectors like small and medium enterprises (SME) and start-ups it is a cause for concern. She said the company will use both AI as well as manual interventions to gauge the interest of candidates.

The process will begin from the time a candidates resume reaches the recruiter. Rajesh said they will create an offer acceptance score for the shortlisted candidates based on the data collected. Softer aspects of the candidates life including profession of spouse, permanent residence among others. Past instances of a candidate ghosting companies are also taken into account.

When we used the AI powered selection mechanism for the positions sourced, we experienced a 300 percent jump in closures, she said. It is not just start-ups and SMEs where ghosting is an issue, but sectors like IT/IT enabled services as well.

Human resource experts are of the view that a mix of technology-led interventions and regular interactions could be a solution.

Rohit Chennamaneni, co-Founder of HR platform Darwinbox, said during the final stages of recruitment they have manual interventions through calls to candidates. This, he said, ensures that the candidate is still interested in the job role. Any adverse reaction or weakening interest from a potential hire is then immediately communicated to the company.

Body language as well as how enthusiastic a potential hire is gives an idea of whether they will ghost the company. Timely interventions minimise ghosting incidents and give early indications to the employer. If the candidate is not interested, they can dole out job offers to the other interested individuals, he added.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the economic security of the common people has been jeopardised since the introduction of demonetisation and asked the central government to probe reports of ATM frauds.

Banerjee said her party TMC will take up the issue in Parliament "very soon" about the large number of incidents of fraudulent ATM withdrawals in the city and elsewhere.

The Finance Ministry should also look into reports of ATM frauds due to which people were affected. Investigations should be held to find out who are behind these frauds, she told reporters here.

On the implementation of demonetisation, the TMC chief said, "In a country where there are no bank branches in many remote areas, in a country of poor people, the Centre has introduced plastic economy. Such a move has taken away the economic security of the common people."

"Without crosschecking the situation in the country, they (the Centre) have introduced digital economy putting the common man in great difficulty," Banerjee said.

State Consumer Affairs Minister Sadhan Pande, after a meeting with bank and police officials, said banks today said a new mechanism in ATM operation would be introduced by 2020 to prevent frauds.

The meeting was held to discuss ways to restore the confidence of consumers following the incidents of fraudulent withdrawals from ATMs.

"Our primary task is to restore the confidence of the panicky consumers and instil in them a feeling that their money is protected," he told reporters.

The minister said he had suggested that all ATMs should be linked with local police stations for direct monitoring to prevent such fraudulent acts.

Review of the CCTV camera footage of ATM kiosks should be done on a regular basis by banks, Pande said.

The minister said authorities of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) have assured cooperation to ensure safe service through ATMs.

A senior police official said two nationalised banks have assured people, who lost their money in fraudulent ATM withdrawals in the city, of repaying their lost amounts.

A special investigating team has been formed to probe the incidents and two Romanians were arrested from New Delhi for their alleged involvement in the fraudulent withdrawals from ATMs.

Investigations are on to ascertain whether the two have links with their fellow countrymen held from other cities in similar cases, police said.

The two Romanians were brought to the city from New Delhi on transit remand and were remanded to 14 days in police custody on August 5.
Nitin Gadkari

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami today met Union Minister Nitin Gadkari here and discussed various road and port projects concerning the state. Palaniswami, who holds the Highways and Minor Ports portfolio, also presented a memorandum to Gadkari in this regard, an official release said.

Meanwhile, BJP state unit President Tamilisai Soundarrajan, underlined the party-led Centres' commitment to Tamil Nadu's growth.

Responding to reporters' query about the meeting between Palaniswami and Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport, Highways and Shipping, she said "growth projects" regarding Tamil Nadu were discussed between the two leaders.

"As far as our BJP government is concerned, we want big growth projects to come to Tamil Nadu," she added. Among the big ticket projects in Tamil Nadu is the Salem-Chennai eight-lane expressway, a Central scheme that has witnessed strict opposition from some quarters, especially farmers, over land acquisition.
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Three major ports, including Paradip in Odisha, may acquire a stake in Dredging Corporation of India (DCI) based on availability of surplus funds lying with them, Parliament was informed.

"During a meeting chaired by Secretary (Shipping) with Chairmen/Chairmen I/C of the Major Ports held on June 18, 2018, divestment proposal of DCI was discussed and it was suggested that Visakhapatnam Port Trust (VPT), Paradip Port Trust (PPT) and New Mangalore Port Trust (NMPT) based on the availability of surplus fund lying with them may strive to acquire shares of DCI given the linkage of dredging activity with the ports," Minister of State for Shipping Mansukh L Mandaviya told the Rajya Sabha in a written reply.

A committee to understand the modalities with regard to proposal of acquiring shares of DCI by three ports has been constituted, he said.

Currently, the government holds 73 per cent stake in the company.

The company is under the administrative control of the Shipping Ministry.

It is involved in maintenance dredging, capital dredging, beach nourishment, land reclamation, shallow water dredging, project management consultancy and marine construction.
From international runways to showcases of New York Citys Museum of Modern Art to celebrity weddings, it is handloom all the way, and how. A classic example of 'Make in India, handloom is a favourite among fashionistas too.

Handloom is 70 percent of finished garments in the apparel industry and it still has a long way to go. While handloom purchase has gone up more than 100 percent in the last decade it is developing itself in terms of product innovation every day, said fashion designer Gaurang Shah whose entire collection is handloom.

According to Shah, handloom has taken over bling and people prefer handloom outfits even for their own wedding. People are ready to pay as much for handloom as they would have paid for any other outfit. If one has a budget of Rs 2 lakhs for a wedding lehenga one would invest it in a pure silk which is an investment in itself and not on blingy outfits that lose their shine and worth with time, said Shah.

Shahs Paithani silk lehengas are a classic example of pure handloom bridal outfits.

Tapasee Pannu in a Gaurang Shah creation

However, it is not just Shah who has gone the handloom way. There are others who are taking handloom beyond the Indian mainland to fashion capitals of the world. For instance, there is Sanjay Garg with his brand Raw Mango. The designer who has dressed celebrities like Sonam Kapoor and Soha Ali Khan has found his way to places like New York Citys Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London where his handloom pieces grabbed the attention of fashionistas across the world.

For Garg handloom is sustainable fashion. Innovation is the key to take fashion to the next level and handloom is at the peak of innovation at the moment. Handloom doesnt need sympathy as a dying product-it needs time, innovation and investment which designers like me have dedicatedly been giving to make it prosper, said Garg.

Not just designers, handloom has got the much-required government push too, Several Indian states have started to promote their traditional and indigenous textiles on national and international platforms.

With hefty budgetary allocations for the promotion of traditional textiles, states like West Bengal, Manipur, Assam, Telengana and Madhya Pradesh are concentrating on developing state-owned brands. These initiatives to rebrand state handloom with design intervention from the fashion designers and monetary support from the government is reviving fabrics like Pochompally, Baluchari, Narayanpet, Kutch Kala Cotton and Muga. In Bengal, for instance, there are two state-run brands Biswa Bangla and Club Muslin and it has also come up with a new brand called Baluchari dedicated to reviving of the fabric under the mentorship of designer Abhishek Dutta.

The center has also put in its best to make handloom work. In 2015 India Handloom Brand was launched by Narendra Modi in order to promote the branding of high-quality handloom products, with zero defects and zero impact on the environment.

India Handloom brand had also pooled in the retail backing with collaboration with brands like Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd.s Peter England to work together to promote the Indian handloom industry.
The Mpumalanga Provincial Government has called on members of the public, who suspect that they may have diarrhoea, to visit their nearest health facility.

Precautions

This comes as the provincial government tries to contain a diarrhoea outbreak in the Ehlanzeni region.To date, over 1,300 cases of diarrhoea have been reported in health facilities, especially within Mbombela Municipality. The provincial government is further encouraging citizens to go to the nearest health facility immediately if they suspect that they are experiencing diarrhoea, which is mainly in the form of passing loose stools, feeling nauseas and vomiting as well as feeling stomach cramps, said the spokesperson of Mpumalanga Premier, Zibonele Mncwango.Of serious concern to the provincial government is that the transmission of the infection seems to be moving from one area to another.While the source of this alarming diarrhoea outbreak has not yet been identified, water tests are continuously being conducted by Ehlanzeni District Municipality, the Department of Water and Sanitation as well as the City of Mbombela (Sembcorp Silulumanzi) repetitively on a daily basis, said Mncwango.While a battery of tests is underway in search of the cause, residents are being encouraged to exercise caution by continuously washing their hands with soap before eating and after using the toilets, washing hands after changing baby nappies, and after throwing away rubbish.Citizens are encouraged to prepare food safely by constantly washing or peeling fruit and vegetables, cooking food thoroughly, especially meat, and should store food in a clean and cool place.They must continue to exercise precaution before drinking water by pouring a teaspoon of bleach into 25 litres of water, mix well and wait for at least 30 minutes or boil the water at least three minutes.The provincial government is conversely satisfied that there are no deaths related to the current diarrhoea outbreak, said Mncwango.
Government will expedite the process of appointing the chiefs of several public sector banks lying vacant for long, the Rajya Sabha was informed today.

Finance Minister Piyush Goyal was responding to a question by senior Congress member Jairam Ramesh who said the government had announced several colourful schemes but why were one-third of state-run banks headless for a long time.

"The Banking Board Bureau has completed the process of interviews of candidates...We will expedite the process," Goyal said, adding that the criteria for qualification has been expanded to allow even top officials of private banks to apply for such posts.

The government has put in place a robust and strict system for appointment of heads of public sector banks, Goyal said during Question Hour.

He said earlier the appointments to the posts were held in an arbitrary manner. In reply to a supplementary, he said there was a policy to give autonomy to public sector banks on appointments to various posts and the government does not interfere in it.

Goyal said the government has granted managerial autonomy to these state-run banks allowing their board of directors to exercise power in respect of decisions on remuneration and compensation to officers and staff.

In reply to a query related to fraud at ATMs, the Minister said he has sought details to ensure action. He said cyber crime was a global phenomenon.

Regarding interest charged on non-performing assets, the Minister said efforts were made to recover the entire amount including the interest.
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The government could divest at least 5 percent of their stake in Coal India this fiscal year, which could generate about Rs 88 billion, Business Standard reports.

The stake sale is likely to take place in the second half of FY2018-19, the report said.

Moneycontrol could not independently verify the news.

The government has set a divestment target of Rs 80,000 crore (Rs 800 billion) for the financial year 2018-2019. The government has been struggling to meet this target after the failed Air India privatization plan.

The government, which currently owns 78.3 percent of Coal India, will transfer their stake to a Special National Investment Fund (SNIF) where PSU stakes are parked.

The SNIF can later sell the PSU stake. The SNIF has been set up so that the government can sell their stake in companies where they stake is more than 75 percent.

The governments stake in Coal India will reduce to 73.8 percent after the divestment.

It is this stake that will be divested through the exchanges later this year, a government official told Business Standard.

The government has a deadline of August 22 to slash its stake in PSUs to 75 percent or below.

Apart from the Air India disinvestment, the government scrapped the merger of three insurance companies - National Insurance, Oriental Insurance and United India Insurance.

Apart from the Coal India stake sale, there are no other major divestment plans likely to take place in the near future.
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Moneycontrol News

ICICI Bank's management wrote off Rs 5,000-5, 600 crore worth of unsecured portions of doubtful corporate loans in the financial year 2016-17, according to a Mint report.

The technical write-offs were possible due to a new accounting policy that was approved by the bank's board of directors only in the current financial year, the news daily reported.

The information came to light as a result of an ongoing multi-agency investigation into some of the bank's past dealings and those of its Chief Executive Officer Chanda Kochhar.

The change in accounting policy was reportedly never communicated to shareholders, which amounts to a violation of accounting standard (AS) norms.

The new accounting policy was a part of the reason why the bank managed to keep its bad loans ratio relatively low for the 2016-2017 financial year, the newspaper reported.

ICICI Bank's gross non-performing assets (NPA) ratio came in at 7.89 percent for FY17, thanks to the new policy. Had it not been implemented, GNPA ratio would have been higher at around 8.5 percent.

An ICICI Bank spokesperson reportedly declined to comment on the matter. Moneycontrol could not independently verify the news.

"It is mandatory for the bank and any listed company to strictly follow the AS norms and compulsorily disclose any change in accounting policies so that the public and the shareholders are able to take an informed decision before investing or divesting in ICICI Bank stock," a senior regulatory official told Mint.

The ICICI Bank board had approved the new policy on April 7, 2017, but the changes had already been made in the last month (March) of the 2016-17 financial year.

The bank's CEO Chanda Kochhar had mentioned the write-offs in a note to the board on April 7, 2017.

"The write-off would be based on a borrower specific evaluation of collectibility. The write-off of credit facilities as per the above proposal would be considered as a technical write-off for the purposes of disclosures in the financial statements and other regulatory reporting," Kochhar said in her note to the board. The note was reviewed by the newspaper.

"Based on the non-performing loans outstanding at 31 December, 2016, it is estimated that the unsecured portion of non-performing loans classified as doubtful in the range of Rs 5,000 crore to Rs 5,600 crore would be eligible to be considered for a write-off at 31 March, 2017," Kochhar said.
Donald Trump and Narendra Modi

India will not be joining the United States-led initiative launched to counter Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in the Indo-Pacific region, according to a report by The Economic Times.

The project is a joint initiative between US, Japan and Australia, to fund infrastructure projects that may help counterbalance Chinas BRI initiative.

Citing people aware of the development, the report suggests that Indias decision to not join the trilateral initiative is in accordance with its emphasis on multipolarity in the Indo-Pacific region and maintaining a non-bloc security architecture.

In June, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said at the Shangri La dialogue in Singapore that India never viewed the Indo-Pacific region as a strategy or as a club of limited members.

It stands 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, PM Modi had added during his address.

PM Modi had also emphasised for a non-bloc security architecture for the region during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

During the trilateral initiatives launch on July 31, Mike Pompeo, US Secretary of State, pledged to oppose any country that attempted to dominate the region. Pompeo also promised a new era of engagement.

However, India remains a part of the Quad quadrilateral, which was revived in November 2017, along with US, Australia and Japan for consultation on Indo-Pacific.

India was the only country in the eight-nation Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) grouping to oppose China's ambitious BRI project with PM Modi asserting that any mega connectivity project must respect sovereignty and territorial integrity of the countries.
After days of positive moves, investors on Tuesday took a breather and ended around flat lines. The Sensex managed to end below 37,700. Meanwhile, the Nifty too slipped off its opening highs, but managed to end at an all-time closing high.

The drag on indices was largely led by banks, which witnessed a profit booking after it saw a big rally on Monday. So, even better than expected results from an index heavyweight such as Punjab National Bank could not salvage the banks from falling on Tuesday.

Along with it, there was weakness among other sectors such as FMCG, energy and infra. Among broader markets, the Nifty Midcap index managed to end the day over quarter of a percent lower.

Equity benchmarks indices traded in a narrow range, amidst intraday volatility. The Nifty index ended flat to close at 11,391 levels. The broader market indices performance was largely in line with the benchmark with BSE Midcap and BSE Smallcap ending with minor losses of 0.2% each, Jayant Manglik, President, Religare Broking, said in a statement.

The Sensex was down 26.09 points or 0.07% at 37665.80, while the Nifty was up 2.40 points or 0.02% at 11389.50. The market breadth is narrow as 1,243 shares advanced, against a decline of 1,448 shares, while 163 shares were unchanged.

Tata Steel, Asian Paints, and Titan Company gained the most, while Adani Ports and Coal India were the top losers.

Stocks in news:

Punjab National Bank (PNB) reported a lower-than-expected net loss of Rs 940 crore for the quarter-ended June. The loss was contained on the back of healthy interest income and fall in bad loans. This is the scam-hit lender's second consecutive loss as for the quarter-ended March 2018, it had posted a massive loss of Rs 13,417 crore. The stock slipped 8% to close at Rs 82.95.

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone slipped 6 percent as company's June quarter (Q1FY19) net profit fell 9.1 percent to Rs 697.4 crore. Revenue declined 12.2 percent to Rs 2,411 crore versus Rs 2,745.1 crore. The other group company Adani Power fell 10 percent as investors turned cautious of its financials on the back of poor Q1 results.

Adani Transmission Q1 has doubled its profit in the quarter ended June 2018. The stock closed 2.6% higher at Rs 175.65.

Shares of Intellect Design Arena added 14.6% as the company signed multi-million dollar deal with an Asian Bank. The company has signed a significant multimillion dollar deal with leading bank in Asia market with a strong foothold in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and China to implement world's first Integrated Trade Finance and Supply Chain Finance (SCF) platform.

Shares of Merck rose 17 percent as the company posted 140 percent jump in its June quarter net profit at Rs 48.3 crore on the back of robust operating income.

Auto components manufacturer Motherson Sumi Systems has reported a healthy 57 percent year-on-year growth in consolidated profit to Rs 482 crore, driven by growth across segments. The stock closed 3% lower.

Global Update:

Majority of Asian stocks rose as investors looked to shrug off concerns on trade war between US and China. Nikkei 225 added 0.69 percent, or 155.42 points, to close at 22,662.74.

Meanwhile, European markets were trading higher as traders digested fresh set of corporate earnings that were being reported for the June quarter. , as investors monitored simmering global trade tensions and the latest batch of corporate earnings.

The pan-European Stoxx 600 edged up around 0.3 percent during early morning deals, with most sectors and major bourses in positive territory.

Going forward, Manglik of Religare expects some consolidation as well. With headline index trading at record highs, some consolidation cannot be ruled out. We expect stock specific volatility to continue with more corporate earnings scheduled in the next 1-2 weeks, his statement further added.
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Shares of Intellect Design Arena added 6 percent intraday Tuesday as company signed multi-million dollar deal with an Asian Bank.

The company has signed a significant multimillion dollar deal with leading bank in Asia market with a strong foothold in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and China to implement world's first Integrated Trade Finance and Supply Chain Finance (SCF) platform.

This partnership will help the bank to deliver on their commitment of building lasting relationship with their customers through products and exceptional digital customer experience.

At 13:47 hrs Intellect Design Arena was quoting at Rs 214.50, up Rs 11.55, or 5.69 percent on the BSE.

The share touched its 52-week high Rs 226.45 and 52-week low Rs 96.50 on 13 June, 2018 and 11 August, 2017, respectively.

Currently, it is trading 5.28 percent below its 52-week high and 122.28 percent above its 52-week low.

Posted by Rakesh Patil
Representative image

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Indias airline companies are bleeding from high oil prices and an inability to raise prices despite strong growth in passenger traffic.

The country is the fastest growing airline market in the world. Indian aviation firms transported at least 68 million passengers in the first half of 2018, up 22 percent from a year ago. The market grew by 18 percent in June 2018, the 46th month of straight double-digit growth.

But while airlines are recording strong passenger growth they are not able to capitalise on it. Almost all airline companies are either loss-making or barely registering profits. That would suggest either supply is growing faster than demand or there is enough excess supply in the market to take care of the demand.

In any other sector, such growth rates would have resulted in companies trying to increase prices and milking extraordinary profits. In the airline market, however, companies do not have pricing power despite strong growth.

It is not that airlines did not try to raise prices, but there is the fear of government intervention. In March, a Parliamentary panel proposed capping airfares saying that pricing models taken from developed nations might not be suitable for India. To the airlines' credit, they held on to their prices and worked on cutting costs even when oil prices were low.

As a result, their fortunes became directly correlated to oil prices. When oil prices fell the companies made more money. Take, for example, the earnings of SpiceJet. Its operating profit margin was around 20 percent when oil prices were around $50 a barrel, 10 percent when crude rose to $60 a barrel. The margin has fallen to around 3 percent when oil prices are at $70 a barrel.

Similarly, IndiGo which posted a 97 percent drop in its profit for the June 2018 quarter has oil prices to blame for the poor performance. Though the airline had aircraft-related issues which caused profits to drop, the steep increase in oil prices in rupee terms was the main reason for the poor performance. A depreciating rupee had made matters worse.

Jet Airways, a full-service airline, has not yet announced its result, but given the noise in media, it is unlikely to be something that the board would be proud of. The airline posted a Rs 1,000 crore loss in the March 2018 quarter, a period in which other listed airlines posted profits. That was more than the cumulative profits it had made in the previous four quarters. The high-cost structure of a full-service airline like Jet Airways makes it more vulnerable to the oil market.

There were reports in the media that the management of Jet Airways had informed its executives that it had money to fly for only 60 days and expected employees to take a cut in their salaries. However, after a meeting between the promoter and employees, a truce was reached and the company management denied the news of salary cuts.

While private sector firms are struggling to stay afloat as oil prices remain high, state-owned Air India has started defaulting again. Since the time government has been unable to find a suitor for the airline, it seems to be getting a step-motherly treatment. Reports say Air India has started defaulting on government-guaranteed loans to lenders and aircraft lessors. This is over and above the airlines' inability to service its Rs 46,669 crore debt.

The Indian airline sector is clearly flying on a wing and a prayer. If oil prices rise any further, it will have only prayers to rely on unless it gathers the courage to raise prices.
Recently, Fidelity Investments launched new mutual fund schemes with zero expenses for retail investors in the US. These schemes are known as Fidelity Zero Index Funds. According to a company press release, these are the first-ever zero expense ratio self-indexed funds for retail investors available in the market.

At Moneycontrol, we spoke to some of the experts in mutual fund industry to know whether Indian AMCs are equipped to launch such zero expense mutual fund schemes or spin-off something similar in near term for retail investors. Lets look at their opinions on this subject.

Expert Take: Zero-fee mutual funds are a non-starter and unsustainable in the long run

In India, SEBI has been making efforts to make mutual fund investment a viable proposition in India. Archit Gupta, Founder & CEO ClearTax said, The fund houses are working hard to bring down the expense ratio and to increase the take-home returns of investors. As regards Index funds, coming up with zero expense mutual funds can be thought of as practical thing. But applying the same in case of actively managed funds would be challenging and might even be unsustainable in the long run.

Kunal Bajaj, Founder & CEO, Clearfunds said, The revenue model for zero expense mutual funds is to earn stock lending fees on the underlying holdings. The stock loan market is practically non-existent in India, so zero-fee mutual funds are a non-starter.

Kaustubh Belapurkar, Director Manager Research, Morningstar added, We dont think we will be seeing zero expense mutual funds from an Indian context anytime soon. This funds would typically be launched for passive strategies like index funds or ETFs. That said there are already several index ETFs that have an expense ratio in the range of 5-10 bps which can be considered as an alternative to zero-fee mutual fund schemes to invest in Indian market.

Anyhow, even if the fund houses come up with such a proposition, investors should not take impulsive decisions to invest in zero-expense funds. Navin Chandani, Chief Business Development Officer, BankBazaar.com said, Investment decisions should be based on a number of factors, the most important being the investment goal, the investment duration, the risk appetite, and the historical performance of the fund. While the expense ratio is a criteria, it should under no circumstance be the over-riding factor for an investment decision.

Expenses are an important consideration, but firstly you need to consider the return net of expenses that a fund can generate. Belapurkar said, Indian Mutual Funds have traditionally produced a significant amount of alpha over the benchmark. Thus, active investing is more prevalent in India as compared to markets like the US where passive investing is garnering a lions share of flows. Thus from an Indian context currently as things stand evaluating funds from a risk adjusted basis is a more useful barometer.

For parameters, an investor should evaluate while investing in mutual funds Bajaj recommended: The right way to invest in a mutual fund is first to pick the right fund, and then select the lower-fee direct investment option not the other way around.

For Indian investors preferring to invest in passively managed funds, Manish Kothari - Director & Head of Mutual Funds, Paisabazaar.com recommended Indian index funds and ETFs over zero expense funds for two reasons.

First, zero cost funds like those launched by the Fidelity follow their own in-house indices whereas Indian index funds and ETFs follow broader market indices. This makes existing Indian ETFs and index funds more transparent than Fidelitys exchange funds. Second, the expense ratios of many Indian ETFs and direct plans of index funds are already as low as 0.05%, making them as good as zero cost funds.

Also, a newly-launched fund would lack a track record and you would have to rely on the past performance of the fund manager. Gupta explained, If the newly launched zero expense ratio fund is offering you a unique benefits which are not available in existing funds, then you may think of giving it a shot. Otherwise, you would be better off in sticking to the existing fund which has a known track record and good performance history.
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Raymond is one of Indias leading branded fabric and apparel manufacturers. The companys six segments include branded formal wear fabric (Raymond Fine Fabrics, Raymond Made To Measure), branded high-value shirting fabric, branded casual cum semi-formal apparel (Raymond, ColorPlus, Parx, Park Avenue), garmenting (formal wear garments manufactured only for export markets), tools cum hardware components, auto components and fast moving consumer goods (wellness products and shampoos).

At the consolidated level, sales growth was subdued during Q1 FY19 due to a high base effect. Implementation of the Goods & Service Tax from Q2 led to preponement of purchases in Q1 FY18 in the branded fabric and apparel segments, which jointly comprised 64 percent of the quarterly sales.

However, margins improved because of lower advertisement spends, cost control initiatives and a noticeable turnaround in the branded apparel segment (constituting 20-25 percent of quarterly revenue) on the profitability front.

What lies ahead ?

On account of a steep rise in raw material (cotton and wool) prices, margin in this segment may remain under pressure, particularly in Q2 FY19. As demand revives in H2 FY19 (wedding and festive season), increase in sale volumes and higher realisations could possibly offset this disadvantage.

Tie-ups with tailors across the country, availability of products with innovative features and product extension strategies (such as ceremonial wear) should provide an additional fillip to demand since it aids personalisation and facilitates a better connect with buyers, both present and prospective.

Spends on marketing/brand building and product launches are anticipated to pick up pace during the course of the year, thus ensuring adequate revenue visibility. As the brands mature and become capable of sustaining the momentum, advertisement expenses will normalise. This, in turn, should cause margins to inch higher.

New segments such as premium ethnic wear (Ethinix), khadi (Khadi by Raymond) and value-for-money wear (Next Look) are evolving simultaneously.

Economies of scale by virtue of improved machine utilisation rates at Raymond's linen fabric factory at Amravati (the unit became functional in Q3 FY18, capacity: 4.8 million metre per annum) should lead to operating leverage, consequently resulting in margin accretion.

On similar lines as the branded fabric segment, increased activity in this segment should be visible in the second half of the fiscal year.

Should you invest

To keep rental costs low and asset turns high, emphasis will be laid on increasing the number of mini The Raymond Shop outlets from the present count of 101 (spread across more than 80 Tier IV and V towns pan India). About 70-80 percent of the proposed 200 mini TRS stores to be added by FY20-end will be through the franchise route.In mid-FY18, Raymond commenced manufacturing of formal wear garments (jackets, trousers, shirts) for men at its Ethiopian facility, which has a capacity of 2.6 million pieces per annum. The rationale behind the move was to enter the European and US markets at zero rate of duty besides taking advantage of low costs and subsidies in the African nation.Domestically and globally, the automobile industry has been growing at a brisk pace. Raymond, through its business relationships with leading names, has managed to strengthen its order book and maintain margins as well. Going forward, traction in this segment seems robust.The turnaround story in this segment appears to be playing out well for Raymond. This is evident from the steady run in margins since the past few quarters.Completion of a major chunk of the capex cycle in FY18 (linen shirting fabric plant at Amravati and export-oriented garmenting facility at Ethiopia), increase in utilisation levels at these units, store expansion in smaller cities and a seasonally strong second half of the year should bolster Raymonds earnings in due course.

Product premiumisation and differentiation holds the key to survival and success in an otherwise commoditised textile industry, where there are no barriers to entry. Raymond, undoubtedly, has been at the forefront in this regard by establishing itself strongly as a brand over the years. The companys products enjoy a good recall too.

Nonetheless, risks associated with the inability to pass on high input prices to consumers (given the stiff competition), a high degree of dependence on menswear products, unforeseen changes in fashion-related trends and delays in monetisation of the Thane land bank could impact profitability and cash flows.

A steep drop in Raymonds stock price provides a great opportunity to take advantage of industry positives that could benefit the company in the long-run. These include growing discretionary spends pan India, increased preference towards branded clothing and GST-induced economy formalisation.

At a modest post-correction valuation of 21.8 times FY20 projected earnings, the stock is worthy of consideration.

Follow @krishnakarwa152
Ola 1

Six months after foraying into Australia, SoftBank-backed domestic ride hailing firm Ola on Tuesday said it will launch its operations in the United Kingdom in September. It has obtained licences to operate in South Wales and Greater Manchester.

"The UK is a fantastic place to do business and we look forward to providing a responsible, compelling, new service that can help the country meet its ever demanding mobility needs. We look forward to our continued engagement with policymakers and regulators as we expand across the country and build a company embedded in the UK," said Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal.

Ola will be offering passengers the option of private hired vehicles and black cabs on its platform. Going forward, it plans to add other transport options on its apps as well.

While in India, Ola operates across over 100 cities, in Australia is has set up operations in seven cities. It claims to have registered 40,000 drivers on its app in Australia.

Globally it has over 1 million driver partners who generate around a billion ride every year. The company claims to have 125 million customers across the globe.

It is now inviting private hire vehicles (PHV) and metered taxi drivers in Cardiff, Newport and Vale of Glamorgan to register on Ola for a commission rate of 10 percent for PHVs and 5 percent for metered taxis.

The expansion happens at a time when Ola is in talks to raise USD 1 billion from existing and new investors. It last raised USD 1.1 billion in fresh funding from China's Tencent Holdings and existing investor SoftBank Group.
OFM, the sound of your life in Central South Africa, hit the road this week during the annual Brandwave Road Show, in the company of the notorious Big Breakfast Team.

The Brandwave Road Show is an opportunity for the OFM on-air advertising sales team to connect with existing advertisers and sign up new advertisers at fun events, where they also get to meet one of OFMs most infamous teams  Martin van der Merwe and the Big Breakfast crew.The Brandwave Road Show met with clients within in the OFM regional footprint in the towns of Welkom, Vereeniging, Potchefstroom and Klerksdorp, while the Big Breakfast broadcast their show live from these towns.To make matters interesting, the show hosted the Poor and Famous Competition, in which representatives from each city got to do push-ups and karaoke to determine which town had the most talent. As an added bonus, clients also got to meet Justin Cohen, a motivational speaker and author, who shared his keys to success in business.Says OFM General Manager, Nick Efstathiou: Brandwave is a big event on the OFM calendar every year. Its an important networking event for the station, but its also a chance to connect with one of OFMs most important roleplayers  the companies that advertise on air. Having the Big Breakfast team join us, injected the fun element! It gave our clients an opportunity to meet the faces behind the voices, and the team to engage with the people who advertise with us. It was an illuminating experience for both groups!To advertise on OFM, contact one of account executives at (051) 5050 900, or go to www.ofm.co.za for more information.
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The Centre is planning to dilute capital norms for banks, as laid down in the Basel III guidelines, to free up capital and spur economic activity. It is expected to soon meet up with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) officials to discuss a less stringent Basel III framework for cash-strapped banks, according to a report in The Economic Times.

Basel III norms refers to the regulatory accord pertaining to enhanced risk management and supervision within the banking sector. The first version of the Basel III guidelines was published in 2009 by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision following the 2008 financial crisis. Under the new norms, banks the world over will have to meet the minimum capital requirement and maintain leverage ratios within the range specified in the regulatory framework.

Banks have turned risk averse given the mounting pile of bad loans, forcing the government to infuse capital for shore up the balance sheet. A move to ease the regulatory guidelines would free up as much as Rs 60,000 crore with public sector banks and loosen the purse strings of bankers. Greater lending could bolster the economy in the run up to general elections in 2019.

The RBIs interpretation of Basel III norms requires banks to maintain a minimum common equity (CET) Tier-I ratio of 5.5 percent of risk-weighted assets. Under the original Basel III guidelines, banks need to set aside a minimum of 4.5 percent of their assets. Lowering the minimum CET requirement will increase liquidity in the economy without the need for additional provisioning.

The NITI Aayog was among the stakeholders apprised of the governments decision to approach the RBI in this regard. Rajiv Kumar, the Vice-Chairman of the government's policy think tank, told the newspaper that the central bank was being overly cautious by setting minimum capital requirements over and above Basel IIIs recommendations.

He stated that almost 70 percent of banks in India are state-owned, making a default highly unlikely as the sovereign was the principal guarantor. A circular issued in February suggested that the RBI was open to diluting the rules since asset recognition norms were more stringent. The new rules state that if loan repayment is delayed even by a single day, the RBI will consider it as a default.

A relaxation in the rules will help weaker banks, which are foregoing fresh lending, to meet the RBIs capital adequacy ratio. Recoveries through the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) route have also picked up, easing pressure on banks.
One cannot begin to emphasise the importance of cheap taxi fare in a city where the streets are swamped with kaali-peelis or the black and yellow taxis. Every morning and evening, during peak hours, if you pause for a look, youll see several hands stretched out to hail a cab to the innumerable destinations. The taxis lend life and convenience to a city, so where their fares stay low, the lives of commuters becomes easier. Lets see some places across the world which have the highest and the lowest taxi fares, according to a study by taxi2airport.com which analysed data collated by Taxi-Calculator.com. (Image: Reuters)

A considerable number of commercial vehicles, including private buses and taxis, will stay off the road in the country as the All India Motor Transport Organisation is observing a one-day strike on August 7.

Here's all you need to know about the All India Motor Transport Organisation strike:

> The workers are demanding a withdrawal of the proposed Motor Vehicle Amendment Bill 2018, a cancellation in a hike in insurance premium and a restriction in a price hike of petroleum products.



Haryana Roadways State Transport is observing a one-day strike today against the proposed Road Safety and Transport Bill and the state govt's decision to include private buses in its fleet. Visuals from Panchkula bus stand. pic.twitter.com/KIBUxytczJ

 ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2018

> Except the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), trade unions of various transportation bodies such as Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Haryana Roadways State Transport, among others, are observing the one-day strike across India.

> Automobile showrooms, automobile spare parts shops and driving school owners and staff are also participating in the strike.

> The Motor Vehicle (MV) Amendment Bill has been passed by the Lok Sabha, and now Rajya Sabha needs to give its nod.

> The Bill proposes to allow private players to enter the public transport arena in a big way and allow the Centre to take away certain powers of the state governments.

> The Bill states that only branded company spares are to be used, a decision which labour organisations fear will affect small-scale enterprises in the automobile manufacturing sector and dealers.

> Other proposals include that servicing and repairing works would be done only in company service centres. This has led to fears that lakhs of roadside mechanics will lose their livelihoods.

> The Communist Party of India (Marxist) is supporting the workers of the motor vehicle federation among others in their call for a day-long national strike on August 7.
The government will hold talks with the Reserve Bank of India about relaxing capital requirements for banks and bringing them in line with the less-stringent Basel-III norms, according to a report by The Economic Times.

This comes after discussions by the finance ministry with central think tank NITI Aayog and other stakeholders, a senior government official told the paper.

The move is likely to free up an estimated Rs 60,000 crore of capital for state-owned lenders. It would allow banks to increase lending in order to fuel the reviving economy, bolster weaker banks and reduce pressure on the government to provide capital.

Around Rs 6 lakh crore of lending can be achieved by freeing up capital without any new provisions being made, the official said.

Currently, the money that banks need to set aside, or the minimum common equity tier-I (CET) ratio as prescribed by RBI, is 5.5 percent of their respective risk-weighted assets, as against the required 4.5 percent under Basel-III norms.

There is a need to lower Indian banks' CET to the level stipulated by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, the official told the paper.

NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar told the news daily that there was no need to exceed the Basel-III norm as 70 percent of the Indian banking system is state-owned.

He added that these banks are implicitly backed by a sovereign guarantee. "Moreover, the depositor is well insured by the government against any insecurity," Kumar said.

The official also pointed out that a circular issued by the central bank in February allowed for an easing of the rules.

Stating that a robust mechanism had been established through the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) to resolve bad loans, Kumar said, "The RBI has so far argued that this extra requirement is necessary because the asset-recognition norms were not stringent but now with the February 12 circular that also has been taken care of."

The circular passed by the RBI in February mandates that borrowers must be classified as defaulter if the loan repayments are late by even a day.

Experts believe that the move will help weaker banks to meet the regulatory capital requirements.

"This relaxation will immensely help weaker banks which are finding it difficult to meet the regulatory capital adequacy ratio under the current dispensation," Krishnan Sitaraman, Senior Director, Crisil Ratings, was quoted as saying.

Stating that the banking sector had witnessed a number of structural changes, Sitaraman said the recognition of stressed assets as non-performing ones has increased significantly, as have recoveries from resolution through insolvency proceedings.
Regular work at state government offices across Maharashtra may come to a halt as nearly 17 lakh employees go on a three-day strike starting Tuesday, August 7.

The employee unions are demanding that the 7th pay commission be implemented immediately.

As the unions mostly comprise Class-3 and Class-4 employees, the strike may bring the work in government offices, municipal councils, schools and hospitals to a standstill.

The Confederation of the State Government Employees union announced the decision on August 6.

The Maharashtra State Gazetted Officers Federation, the Maharashtra State Employees Organization, and the Maharashtra State Class Four Employees Association have collectively called for the strike.

The unions are firm on their stand for a strike, but they have kept the option of discussions open.

Earlier this year, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had announced the implementation of the 7th pay commission from January 2019. The unions, however, are demanding an immediate implementation.

"We have called for similar strikes earlier as well, but the state Govt requested us to withdraw citing issues like drought and other issues. We readily agreed. But now we really doubt whether they truly intend to implement it. January 2019 is far away. There could be announcements of elections; model code of conduct may come into force. That is why we are demanding immediate implementation," Avinash Daund, General Secretary of the State Govt Employees union told India Today.

Apart from the immediate implementation of the 7th pay commission, the unions have put forth 24 additional demands. These demands include raising the retirement age from 58 to 60, five days of work per week, recruitment in 1.80 lakh vacant posts, two years of maternity leave for women officers and promotions in a time-bound manner.

A General Administration Department (GAD) official told DNA that the employees working in essential services departments like hospitals, fire brigade, water supply have been directed not to join the strike.

The official also said that if the employees participate in the strike, provisions of the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) will be invoked against them.
Justice K M Joseph, the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court, will take oath as a judge of the Supreme Court as scheduled today amid a row with the Centre over his seniority being lowered on his elevation.

The Centre on its part said it went purely by the "time tested" principle of high court seniority list. It came out with a notification last Friday on the appointment of three judges to the apex court by putting at third position the seniority of Justice K M Joseph.

According to apex court sources, the oath-taking ceremony of the three judges elevated to the Supreme Court -- Justices Indira Banerjee, Vineet Saran and K M Joseph -- will take place as scheduled tomorrow in the order of seniority notified by the Centre.

Judges including members of the collegium comprising Justices M B Lokur, Kurian Joseph and A K Sikri met Chief Justice Dipak Misra to raise their concerns on the seniority issue concerning Justice K M Joseph.

The judges were reported to be of the view that there was a need to sit together and ponder over the issue.

The court sources said that nothing much can be done at this stage and that the concerns raised by some of the judges would be discussed after the three judges are sworn in tomorrow.

The court sources said except for Justice Ranjan Gogoi, a member of the apex court collegium who was on leave, others had "informally" deliberated on the Centre's decision to lower the seniority of Justice K M Joseph.

However, it was decided that the oath-taking ceremony should take place.

"Let the oath-taking take place. There is no time. The oath-taking can't be deferred. It has to be seen what can be done later," the court sources said about the discussion that was held among the judges in the morning at the judges' lounge before they commenced the day's working in the apex court.

They said that the CJI, who heads the collegium, assured the judges that he would consult Justice Gogoi who is the senior most after him and take up the issue with the Centre.

Top government sources pointed out that the executive "went purely by the time tested principle of the high court seniority list" in placing Justice Joseph below justices Banerjee and Saran.

It was also pointed out that none of the three judges will become the Chief Justice of India (CJI) as there are other SC judges who have been elevated to the apex court earlier and they will also retire later.

In the notification, the names of Justice Indira Banerjee, Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, was at number one, followed by that of Justice Vineet Saran, Chief Justice of the Orissa High Court.

It is the convention that seniority of the judges is determined in accordance with the order of names notified by the government.

The warrants of appointment of the three judges were signed by the President on August 3.

Justice Joseph's elevation to the apex court put an end to a protracted stand-off between the government and the judiciary.

Justice K M Joseph, the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court, headed a bench which had quashed the imposition of President's Rule in the state in 2016. Uttarakhand was then under the Congress rule.

The collegium had on January 10 recommended the name of Justice Joseph, along with that of senior advocate Indu Malhotra, for elevation to the apex court.

However, the government had returned Justice Joseph's name for reconsideration and gone ahead with the appointment of Justice Indu Malhotra.

The collegium had on May 16 in-principle reiterated the decision to recommend Justice Joseph's name for elevation to the apex court. The recommendation was sent to the government in July and it was accepted.

The number of judges in the top court after the fresh appointments has gone up to 25. There are still six vacancies.

According to the collegium's January 10 resolution, when Justice Joseph's name was recommended for elevation, "he stands at Sl. No. 45 in the combined seniority of High Court Judges on all-India basis."

According to the July 16 resolution of the collegium, Justice Banerjee stood at Sl. No. 4 and Justice Saran stood at Sl. No. 5 in the combined seniority of high court judges on all-India basis.

Justice Joseph became a high court judge on October 14, 2004 and he was elevated as a chief justice of high court on July 31, 2014. He will retire on June 16, 2023 as an apex court judge.
Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) patriarch M Karunanidhi died on August 7, in Chennai. He was 94. Fondly called Kalaignar' (artist) by his supporters, Karunanidhi served as DMKs president for ten terms. (Image: Reuters)

Literature and art | Before entering active politics, Karunanidhi worked in the Tamil film industry as a screenwriter. He wrote poems, novels, biographies, historical novels, stage-plays and movie songs. Karunanidhi also contributed to art and architecture. (Image: Reuters)

Early politics | Karunanidhi entered politics at the age of 14. He was elected to the Tamil Nadu Assembly in the 1957 election. (Image: Reuters)

Leading Tamil Nadu | He assumed office of the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on five occasions. He first became the CM after his mentor CN Annadurais death in 1969. Subsequently, he became the CM twice, but did not complete his term. Karunanidhis first full term lasted from 1996 to 2001. His last term in power lasted from 2006 to 2011. (Image: Reuters)
We are looking at actual recovery of Rs 20,000 crore, says PNB MD

August 07, 2018 / 10:33 PM IST That's all for today, readers. Thanks for staying on with our coverage of the day's action. Your enthusiasm encourages us to better our coverage every day. Do come back tomorrow for more news, views and insights.











August 07, 2018 / 05:11 PM IST JUST IN | Goa CM Manohar Parrikar reaches Transport Bhawan to meet PM Modi. He is likely to seek the lifting of the mining ban off Goa, according to a CNBC TV 18 report.











August 07, 2018 / 04:35 PM IST











August 07, 2018 / 04:23 PM IST Volkswagen Group's MAN trucks to shut operations in India: Report JUST IN | Volkswagen Group-owned MAN trucks will shut operations in India, reports CNBC TV18. Volkswagen will stop manufacturing and sales of MAN owing to their global restructuring and poor sales in the country. Only Research and Development (R&D) unit of the MAN trucks will be functional in India. According to the report, the company will execute current orders and the plant will be functional post-October. The sales and service for current MAN vehicles will continue for the next five years.











August 07, 2018 / 03:44 PM IST Muzaffarpur shelter home case: Inspector Vinod Kumar Singh has been suspended for negligence of duty, reports ANI.











August 07, 2018 / 03:39 PM IST











August 07, 2018 / 03:28 PM IST JUST IN | The Supreme Court seeks a report from the Bihar government in a week on the shelter home rapes, reports CNN News18. Bihar to apprise the Supreme Court of medical and psycho-social help and counselling to the victims.











August 07, 2018 / 02:55 PM IST JUST IN | Vandana Chavan of NCP to be opposition's candidate for Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, reports CNN News18.











August 07, 2018 / 02:54 PM IST











August 07, 2018 / 02:28 PM IST NEWS FLASH | Israeli strike kills Hamas militants in Gaza, reports AFP.











August 07, 2018 / 02:20 PM IST










#Newsmaker: One Ogilvy, two remarkable women

Ogilvy South Africa recently appointed Vicki Buys as MD of the Cape Town operation and Tassin Albertyn as head of delivery.

New appointments at Ogilvy

I interviewed Buys and Albertyn as part of our Womens Month coverage to find out what it means to them to be joining the recently re-founded agency, now a fully integrated global creative network, at such a time as this



Tassin Albertyn and Vicki Buys Congratulations on your appointment. How do you feel about it? Congratulations on your appointment. How do you feel about it? I interviewed Buys and Albertyn as part of our Womens Month coverage to find out what it means to them to be joining the recently re-founded agency, now a fully integrated global creative network, at such a time as this

What does your new role entail and what are you looking forward to? What does your new role entail and what are you looking forward to?

What excites you most about Ogilvy, being part of a fully integrated global creative network, and where the recently re-founded agency is going? What excites you most about Ogilvy, being part of a fully integrated global creative network, and where the recently re-founded agency is going?

We have the opportunity to make a real and meaningful change to the way we operate and to how we meet our client needs as a modern marketing agency. We have the opportunity to shape the way the business does things internationally as right now we are all in the same boat.

What do you love most about your career and specialised field? What do you love most about your career and specialised field?

Advertising can never be a job. Its a way of life and a way of seeing the world.

What did it take to get to where you are today? What did it take to get to where you are today?

Comment on the current state of advertising and what its future looks like to you. Comment on the current state of advertising and what its future looks like to you.

Many agencies are not going to make it through this next period without a drastic understanding of the changing landscape, the changing needs of our clients and an ability to react to this  without losing the very reason we exist  to tell compelling brand stories.

Whats at the top of your to-do list in your new position? Whats at the top of your to-do list in your new position?

What are you currently reading, watching and/or listening to for work? What are you currently reading, watching and/or listening to for work?

Tell us something about yourself not generally known. Tell us something about yourself not generally known.

Jessica Tennant's articles About Jessica Tennant Jess is Senior Editor: Marketing & Media at Bizcommunity.com. She is also a contributing writer. Jess is Senior Editor: Marketing & Media at Bizcommunity.com. She is also a contributing writer. moc.ytinummoczib@swengnitekram

VB: Its an amazing opportunity and an honour to be in this role. Im excited to bring what I uniquely possess to the role and be a part of the local Ogilvy story.TA: After a month into the role, Im excited to say that Ogilvy definitely lives up to its reputation. The agency has a diverse, fast-paced and solution-driven culture. It has definitely exceeded my expectations and I am excited to see how this role evolves over time.VB: I will be leading the Ogilvy team in Cape Town, a fully integrated business, and am looking forward to driving home what we started under Lucas leadership in the reorganisation of our business into one consolidated, integrated agency.TA: My role as head of delivery is to maximise efficiencies and identify and streamline inefficiencies to make sure the agency runs at an optimal pace. Im looking forward to streamlining processes and contributing to a customer-centric delivery approach.VB: Its a very exciting time to be inside Ogilvy  and especially in the drivers seat.TA: Ogilvy has so much history and knowledge that very few integrated agencies have been able to maintain. Its exciting to be part of an agency that values knowledge sharing from around the world.VB: I love the people I get to work with  from internal agency partners to other partner agencies, to production companies and of course our clients!TA: I love the ever-changing environment. The ability to study the way teams operate and find practical solutions is one of the things I value the most about my role.VB: Passion, commitment and an unwavering knowledge that this is what I was meant to do.TA: A positive attitude, hard work and a healthy appetite for change.VB: Its a very interesting time.TA: To survive this age of instant gratification, I believe agencies will need to adapt to a new way of delivery and have a strong focus on building a programme office that drives agility.VB: Driving the change of One Ogilvy throughout our organisation.TA: Growing solution-driven, customer-centric behaviours within the agency.TA: I have been catching up on some Ogilvy treasures. My latest obsession isVB: I dream of a world where a good old handshake replaces the confusing kiss-on-the-cheek greeting!
Fishermen

Two fishermen in the Palghar town of Maharashtra on Sunday caught a gigantic ghol fish, which fetched them Rs 5.5 lakh, making it the most expensive fish to be caught along the Mumbai-Palghar coastline.

According to a report in The Times of India, Mahesh Meher and Bharat caught the ghol fish (scientific name Protonibea diacanthus), that weighed around 30 kg, near the Murbe coast on Sunday.

The news of the fish's impending arrival caused a stir in the market as traders gathered in the wee hours of Monday morning to take part in the auction, which lasted only 20 minutes.

Mahesh compared catching a ghol to winning a lottery and said that money will help him recover from an ongoing financial crisis.

"Catch has reduced over the years. So, a ghol in the net comes as big relief. The money will help me tide over a financial crisis. I can now repair my boat and nets," said Mahesh.

Apart from being a delicacy, ghol has garnered eminence in East Asia for the medicinal properties of its internal organs and is touted as 'the fish with a heart of gold.'

The skin of the fish is a good source of high-quality collagen and is used to manufacture skin care medicines as well as cosmetic products. The fins of ghol are used by pharmaceutical companies to manufacture soluble stitches and is also used in wine purification.

While the fish is available at several price grades, only the lower ones end up in the market for local consumption.

The higher grades, like the one caught by Mahesh and Bharat, is generally exported to South Asian countries such as Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan and Indonesia.

"Even a low-grade fish fetches Rs 800-1,000 a kg," an Utan fisherman Malcolm Kasugar said in a report by TOI.
Congress president Rahul Gandhi Karnataka 2018

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue of women safety and questioned his silence on the alleged incidents of rape of girls in some shelter homes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

The Congress leader said what they did against women in the past four years had not happened in the country in the past 3,000 years.

He hit out at the BJP's ideological mentor, the RSS, alleging that it was a "male chauvinist organisation" and did not have women in it, thus cannot do what the Congress can for women.

Gandhi also promised to extend his party's full support to the passage of the women reservation bill and said if the Modi government does not bring it, the Congress will do so soon after coming to power.

He also talked of empowering women within the Congress and bringing them forward in the organisation, for them to lead a state or the country one day. He promised to includes more women in central units of the AICC, saying "the country needs them".

Launching a fierce attack on the prime minister, he said various institutions were under attack by the BJP and the RSS, who have "devastated" the country, and that the Congress party will unitedly defeat them in the coming days.

Referring to the government's slogan of "beti bachao, beti padhao", he said that it was actually for "saving the daughters from BJP MLAs", an apparent reference to some BJP leaders accused in rape cases.

"Institutions are under attack in the country, be it Parliament, vidhan sabhas and the judiciary. Minorities, Dalits, women, tribals, small businessmen are under attack. We will fight the BJP and defeat them in the coming days.

"The Congress party and the opposition are working together to fight the ideology of the BJP. We are fighting an ideological battle," he said while addressing a "Mahila Adhikaar Sammelan" at Talkatora Stadium here.

"(He) had talked about changing India, had talked about 70 years...what they have done against women in the last four years, has not happened in the last 3,000 years in this country, leave alone 70 years," he said.

He questioned the silence of Modi on atrocities against women in the backdrop of rapes of girls in shelter homes in Muzaffarpur in Bihar and in Uttar Pradesh.

He said, "The prime minister speaks on everything - bullet train, toilets, but not women. Whenever there are atrocities on women, he does not speak up."

He also said that whenever he goes abroad and embraces leaders, he has no answer on why women are not safe in India.

Women are being raped in UP, Bihar and so many other states but the prime minister is quiet. Biggest difference between the BJP/RSS and the Congress is on the place of women.

Talking about the women reservation bill, which is pending for the last few years, the Congress chief said the BJP lacks commitment on the issue and cited the example of BJP's ideological mentor -- the RSS, which he said was a "male chauvinist organisation".

Promising to bring women forward within the Congress and give them their rightful place, Gandhi while pointing to the slogan "your fight is our fight" put up at the conference, said you can add "your right is Congress president's fight".

He promised to bring women forward in framing the policy, manifesto and the organisation. He said his job as the Congress president is to ensure women have equal space in the organisation.

"We are going to create space for you in the Congress party. We need to create special space for women in our party. We need to create a space at every level.

"The RSS and the BJP will never be able to show the country a similar vision. Their parent organisation, the RSS, in its history has never allowed a woman into its organisation. The RSS is purely a male organisation. There are other organisations in the BJP that have females in it, but RSS is a completely male chauvinist organisation that does not believe in giving space to women. So they simply can't do what we can do," he said.

He said if he faced with a choice between a man and a woman for selecting election candidate, he will choose whoever is more capable.

"If both are equally capable, I will choose the woman as a candidate," Gandhi said.

"My job as Congress president is to ensure, women have equal space in our organisation. Our aim is to have 50 per cent women in our party," he said.

Gandhi, along with Mahila Congress president Sushmita Dev, unveiled the flag and the symbol of Mahila Congress.

Gandhi also said that the media should no longer worry, while alleging that the BJP and RSS is frightening them.
Muthuvel Karunanidhi, who has died at the age of 94, was fondly called Kalaignar, which in Tamil means a man who has a great understanding of arts and literature an artist. And an artist he was.

If you put all of his writings together, they would probably run into two to three lakh pages, TKS Elangovan, a Rajya Sabha MP from Chennai North and the Organisation Secretary of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) had recently told Moneycontrol. Karunanidhi led DMK for 50 long years  the most any Indian political leader ever had.

Karunanidhi, who died of multiple organ failure today, was elected as the partys leader on July 27, 1969.

Known for his mastery at predicting and picking up the public discourse and weaving a careful political line along it, Kalaignar was also known for his wit and formidable memory a trait he preserved until his last breath. When senior AIADMK leaders, Karunanidhis political opponents, went to meet him as a courtesy visit on July 25, the Kalaignar was able to recognise them all.

Karunanidhis foray into politics started early. Born into a poor family in 1924, the DMK patriarch entered politics as a fiery student activist at 14, when he joined Tamil reformer EV Ramasamys (or Periyar) Self-Respect Movement.

As a student activist and later a student leader, Karunanidhi learnt quickly that his talent as a writer of poems and drama could be used as a political tool, an idea he employed during the 1937 anti-Hindi agitation. It was during these protests, that leaders of the Self-Respect Movement, including the then-future CM of Madras State CN Annadurai realised the potential in the then-young leader.

In 1957, 25-year-old Karunanidhi was elected to the Tamil Nadu assembly from Kulithalai seat in Thiruchilapalli. Post that, his ascent within the DMK and Tamil Nadu politics was quick: he became the partys treasurer in 1961, and then the Deputy Leader of Opposition next year. In 1967, the DMK formed a coalition government in what was then still the Madras State. The party attained power on the background of the 1965 anti-Hindi language agitations against the central governments act replacing English with Hindi as an official language.

Karunanidhi became the Minister of Public Works in a government helmed by his mentor Annadurai, who himself became the first non-Congress Chief Minister in post-Independent Madras.

In 1969, with the death of Annadurai, Karunanidhi, who had by then gathered support of younger leaders of the party, became the Chief Minister. The Kalaignar, at that point of time, had used his artistry for different read political purposes. He managed to sideline CR Nedunchezhian, one of the founders of the party and the supposed next-in-line for the CM post. Karunanidhi had managed to convince Annadurai that he was a better leader, and declare him as someone who can win elections and lead the party to victory. This carefully cultivated image, endorsed by the partys senior-most leader, helped the Kalaignar gain popularity and gather vital cadre support during the partys initial and later years.

As a Chief Minister, Elangovan had said, The Kalaignar legislated many social welfare measures.

In fact, he has been a source for many schemes of the central government. For instance, share of property for the women folk in the family was a legislation which was brought by him, and the central government adopted it subsequently, he had added.

During Emergency, recalled K Balakrishnan, the Tamil Nadu state secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and a member of the state assembly, Nobody dared to impose all those anti-democratic measures in Tamil Nadu for six months. That was because of Karunanidhi, he had said.

Despite that, however, he lost the 1977 elections to MG Ramachandran, once a member of the DMK and the Kalaignars comrade-in-arms. Things between Karunanidhi and MGR changed, however, when the latter left DMK reportedly because he was denied a Cabinet post. Karunanidhi had claimed that MGR did not stand a chance of winning elections without the DMKs organizational support, but he was proved wrong and spectacularly so.

The Kalaignar would taste victory more than a decade later, in 1989, and that too only after MGRs death. He became the Chief Minister once again, and managed to retain his seat in 1991, but resigned soon after his partys poor performance that year.

Not that the Kalaignars career has been clean as a slate far from it, in fact, because the DMK patriarch has had his share of grey. In 1989, Karunanidhi, who was also the states finance minister, stood up in the assembly to present the budget. As he did so, from the Opposition stands stood up his rival and MGRs heir Jayalalitha, who accused the Tamil Nadu chief minister of tapping her phone. Chaos ensued in the assembly, and things including microphones and books were thrown. The House was adjourned, but soon, as Jayalalitha was leaving the assembly, the states minister for public works, Durai Murugan blocked her path and clutched her sari. This incident cemented the legend of Jayalalitha and dismantled, to an extent, the legacy Karunanidhi had managed to carefully build over the years.

Then in 2001, with AIADMKs Jayalalitha in power, Karunanidhi was arrested in a late night raid from his house on charges of alleged corruption. Journalists from Sun TV released a video of the aging patriarch being dragged by police, triggering protests across the state. It brought back memories of 1989 to the minds of both DMK as well AIADMK cadre. That, the 2G scam and his association with the Maran brothers has gone on to dent the DMK patriarchs status in recent years.

But he kept the party alive and vibrant through it all, Elangovan had said, adding that the DMK continues to be a formidable force because of Karunanidhis efforts.

As a politician, Karunanidhi was astute, sharp and strategic qualities his chosen profession demanded anyway. But as a person, according to journalists and leaders close to him, he was a man of conviction. He brought that conviction into his politics. We had differences, but he commanded respect and aura despite that, Balakrishnan said.

He was a poet at heart but he also wrote dialogues which went viral, Elangovan had said. Karunanidhi is believed to have written the dialogues for Tamil film star Sivaji Ganesans first movie. In fact, his dialogues were so famous that a person who wanted to become an actor, would need to by-heart his dialogues to get a chance in the industry, he had added.
Chief Minister of India's desert state of Rajasthan, Vasundhara Raje speaks during an interview with Reuters at her office in Jaipur September 24, 2014. The desert state of Rajasthan, derided as a poverty-stricken laggard, has taken the lead on structural reforms that, their backers argue, could also help Asia's No.3 economy as a whole to attract business and employ a fast-growing workforce. Raje has shaken up labor, land and welfare policies with such verve Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a party ally, has even poached her chief of staff and put him in charge of the federal finance ministry. Picture taken September 24, 2014. To match Insight INDIA-RAJASTHAN/ REUTERS/Stringer (INDIA - Tags: POLITICS BUSINESS) - GM1EABP0ZFC01

In the run-up to state assembly elections scheduled later this year, Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje has embarked on a 40-day Gaurav Yatra to strengthen her trust with the electorate. Her rally, which will cover 165 of the 200 assembly constituencies in the state, was flagged off in Rajsamanand district on Saturday by BJP president Amit Shah.

In an interview to Indian Express, Vasundhara Raje was asked about her top three poll issues, to which she said  education and women empowerment, health and self-employment. Highlighting that during the past five years, her policies have become more women-centric, she said, Who could have imagined that a state which was 26th as far as education is concerned will be number two in the country four years later? It doesnt take time to change. It just requires the willpower.

When asked about Congresss allegations on anti-incumbency and their counter campaign to ask 40 questions on each day of the yatra, she said the Congress had 40 years and they should have worked in the field then.

Raje, when asked if the BJP will change its strategy after their losses in the bypolls that were held earlier this year, she said the party is sticking to its original strategy  concentrating on the lowest denominating factor, because thats where it begins.

On being asked if cow vigilantism in the state is going to be a poll issue for her, she said, I dont think we should get into that." While she did not deny that it is a social issue, she lay more emphasis on creation of jobs and keeping people occupied. She did not comment on the issue of NRC in Assam.

When she was asked about how her schemes were different, she said, We are not going to use the Congress as a benchmark for us." She said the BJP government in Rajasthan has set targets which are being monitored regularly and more people are being made beneficiaries of the state government's schemes.

Raje had taken out two similar yatras in 2003 and 2013. She told the paper that the Congress had made zero progress in the 40 years that they governed the state and that now she has no time to waste.

She also told the Hindustan Times that even though the yatra involves many risks, she is ready to take them in order to check the developments made on ground. She said while she was nervous, she piloted with a tour of 60 constituencies before the yatra so as to gauge the response; however after Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to Jaipur where 3 lakh beneficiaries had turned up, she got a confidence boost.

On being asked about her differences with the BJP central leadership, Raje disposed it off as a conjecture. When asked about her PPP (public private partnership) model not being received well by the masses, she said it worked well in the health sector and that the government of Rajasthan is trying pilot projects on the same model.

In the 2013 elections, the BJP had won by a clear majority of 163 seats as against Congress' 21 seats.
Congress president Rahul Gandhi Karnataka 2018

Congress President Rahul Gandhi today said people will no longer be fooled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "bogus promise of achche din" and likened the country to a train being driven to disaster by an "autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver".

Addressing the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) meeting in Parliament House, he alleged that corruption, economic failure, incompetence and spread of social divisiveness have peaked under the Narendra Modi government and asked party MPs to provide an alternative.

There is a rising tide of anger against the ruling dispensation and party MPs must strive hard to give people an alternative to the bogus promise of Modiji's 'Achche Din', the Congress chief said while hitting out at the government on a range of issues, including the Rafale deal and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam.

Gandhi recalled Modi's remarks in 2014 when he was elected that India had been a slow "passenger train" for 70 years after Independence and would become a sleek and shining "magical train" destined for 'achhe din' under his guidance and rule.

"Give me your votes, said Modiji, and 'I will take you on the best and most comfortable journey of your life'. Four years of Modi rule later, sadly, India today looks more like a train that is being driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver who does not care what happens to the passengers he is responsible for," Gandhi said.

"The people of India are demanding change. They will no longer be fooled by your magical train that is headed for a bad accident," he added.

The people, he added, are looking to the Congress and its allied parties to help remove the Modi government and replace it with one which will listen to them, understand their problems and provide solutions to help reduce poverty, unemployment and inequality in the country.

There is a great responsibility that is being placed on all of us today, to win this historic struggle between the forces of democracy and social justice versus those of autocracy and social hierarchy, he told his party's MPs.

Gandhi told Congress MPs "we must ensure" that the forces of hate, division and violence that are trampling the Constitution are prevented from coming back to power.

He noted that "there is a great responsibility placed on all of us today, to win this historic struggle between the forces of democracy and social justice versus those of autocracy and social hierarchy".

Adding an emotive touch, Gandhi asked members of the party to restore hope in the eyes of the Indian farmers and youth, give relief to ordinary families being crushed under the dual burden of household debt and rising prices of essential goods, ensure the safety of women and the protection of Dalits in order that they get justice. Raising the issue of graft, he dubbed the Rafale deal "corruption of the century".

According to Gandhi, Modi came to power on the claim that he would wipe out corruption in the country and provide a very clean government. But the Rafale scam, involving over Rs 1.3 lakh crore of public money, was "designed to bail out debt-ridden corporate cronies of Modiji is symbolic of the true 'sanskar' of this government  'Raam Naam Japna, Paraya Maal Apna'," he said, recalling an old Hindi proverb.

Discussing the NRC, he said the manner in which the exercise was undertaken by the BJP governments at the Centre and in had left millions of innocent citizens living in fear of being thrown out of their own land and country. "Clearly, after spending close to Rs 1,200 crore, the execution of this critical and highly sensitive exercise has been tardy. The government must move swiftly to resolve this crisis.

"It is the task of all members of the Congress party to help maintain peace and help all those against whom an injustice has been done in the draft NRC, no matter what their religion, caste, gender, linguistic group or political affiliation," he said. Gandhi noted that the Congress had helped in building the nation, constructed on the back of institutions designed to be the voice of the people.

Since the RSS and the BJP have come to power, we have seen a systematic attack on every single one of our institutions. In modern India, these institutions were called temples of democracy and today RSS is intent in destroying every single one of them. Every single institution is being penetrated by their people and nature of institutions itself is being changed, Gandhi told Congress MPs.
August 10, 2018 / 04:27 PM IST

Monsoon Session ends after passing 21 laws

The Lok Sabha was adjourned sine die today, as the Monsoon Session ended after passing 21 laws, including one to amend the SC/ST Act and another relating to the Fugitive Economic Offenders, reports PTI.

Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said the session has been the "more productive and safisfactory" compared to the previous Budget Session and last year's monsoon session.

The session, which began on July 18, also witnessed a discussion on a no confidence motion against the Government brought by Opposition. The motion was defeated later.

The House also greeted the people in advance on the occasion of the Independence Day.
JD(U) president Nitish Kumar today reached out to Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, requesting the support of TRS for his party lawmaker and NDA candidate Harivansh Narayan Singh in the election to the post of Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha.

The Bihar chief minister rang up the Telangana Rashtra Samithi president this morning and made the request, according to Rao's office.

Rao told him he would discuss the issue with his party colleagues and take a final decision, it said.

Kumar's call comes as the NDA and the Opposition appeared to be heading for a showdown in the election. The Opposition has given a clear indication that it will contest the August 9 election.

In the upper house, the BJP-led ruling alliance lacks a majority.

According to Opposition sources, Tiruchi Siva of DMK, Vandana Chavan of NCP and nominated member K T S Tulsi are front-runners for the post.

The support of regional parties such as the AIADMK, BJD, TRS and YSR Congress are crucial in the poll.

The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since June this year, following the retirement of P J Kurien, who had been elected to the upper house of Parliament on a Congress ticket from Kerala.

The current strength of Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in the full house.

The BJP is the largest party in the house with 73 members. Its allies JD(U), Shiv Sena, Akali Dal have six, three and three members, respectively.

Besides the nominated and independent members affiliated to it, the BJP is banking on the support of 13, nine, six and two members of the AIADMK, BJD, TRS, YSR Congress respectively, its floor managers said.

If all four parties support the NDA candidate, then the numbers add up to 126.

However, if parties like BJD or TRS abstain from voting, then things will become more precarious for the ruling alliance.

Both these parties had abstained during a vote on the recent motion of no-confidence against the government in the Lok Sabha while the AIADMK had voted with the treasury benches.

The BJP is hoping to get support of four of the six independent members and three of the four nominated members.

The Congress has 50 members.
Madhavan Narayanan

Just what message is the government of the world's largest democracy sending to the world when it asks telecom operators for suggestions to block popular social media apps during emergencies? We can expect straight-faced answers from the NDA government, but there is little doubt that in the charged pre-election atmosphere that is building up in India, the latest move by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is bound to raise eyebrows and invite loud howls of protest.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) may have ridden to power on the back of an aggressive social media-supported campaign. Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp played a major role in building a narrative against the Congress and in favour of the man who eventually became prime minister, Narendra Modi. However, once in power, the BJP-led NDA has had to grapple with a tricky terrain on social media.

Rising protests against fake news and lynchings triggered or supported by rumours travelling on WhatsApp have resulted in general calls for regulation. But the government is caught between a rock and a hard place. Monitoring private messages would mean violating a right to privacy, now upheld by the Supreme Court, but any curbs on freedom of expression otherwise would be a violation of the fundamental right.

What's a poor government supposed to do?

"Poor" is not quite the correct adjective to describe a government known to profess toughness in law enforcement and a ruling party accused of strong-arm tactics. But "helpless" may yet not be a bad word in a situation where the Supreme Court is doing a good bit of the public interest work involving difficult choices.

Last week, IT minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told Parliament that social media platforms must use technology to stop the spread of fake news and appoint grievance officers. He said technology companies do not need "rocket science" to swoop on fast circulating messages. A few days earlier, he had remarked that safety measures on WhatsApp were inadequate and the platform could not evade responsibility for its actions.

Facebook, Inc, which owns WhatsApp, has now begun identifying forwarded messages and also restricts the number of people to whom a message can be sent through one-click forwarding. It appears to be a token response to a tricky problem.

Facebook is concerned about giving up its encryption on grounds of security and privacy, but it is also trying to hire key executives in India to address fake news and other discontents.

Both the government and Facebook (and other social media platform companies) cannot but heed the words of the Supreme Court, which recently targeted authorities over the issue of lynchings aided and/or abetted by WhatsApp messages. The top court wanted a law against lynching and called for all-around "earnest action" involving the administration to uphold constitutional rights as reports came in of 30 deaths caused by a single WhatsApp rumour.

So you could say the government is firing its bullets from the Supreme Court's shoulders, or vice versa.

However, all signs are that the government may end up facilitating self-regulation in the industry and try for emergency control because it is important for it to be seen doing something to follow the apex court while evading charges that it is against democracy or freedom of expression.

Earlier this year, the Prime Minister's Office stepped in to stop the information and broadcasting ministry's attempts to check fake news through regulation even as the buck passed from the I&B to the IT ministry. Later, I&B minister Rajyavardhan Rathore said he favoured self-regulation by online news media, adding that the government was ready to frame guidelines, but only if it was approached.

India does have legal provisions against hate news and defamation, but there is no suitable cyber law to police social or electronic media. And there are shades of grey between outright hate calls on social media and those that set the mood for violence.

In such a context, Internet shutdowns have been used as a proxy for policing or censorship in India. A study by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) said last year that India, with 30 blackouts, had topped a list of 54 countries in carrying out Internet shutdowns in the preceding 21 months of a study. In 2017, the total number of shutdown hours crossed 8,000, having risen steadily over the previous five years.

The latest notice by the DoT seems to be an effort to contrive the social media equivalent of a "nuclear button" as a deterrent.

Connecting all those dots, it would seem the Supreme Court's approach is both a challenge and an opportunity for the NDA government to assume the role of a digital supercop. After all, social media apps are just an extension of the online media. But it must be remembered that the Supreme Court had in 2015 struck down Section 66A of the Information Technology Act that led to the arrests of people for posting allegedly objectionable content as unconstitutional in its entirety, describing the section as "draconian".

The government now has to read into the tea leaves of the Supreme Courts words wanting stern action to curb lynchings on the one hand alongside the same court's words that want a check on draconian crackdowns.

The Opposition, the media, the courts and civil society activists will be watching the government carefully in an election year.

All indications, therefore, are that the government will facilitate a framework of self-regulation, preferably with a last resort control button for itself if it can get away with it. With the Opposition keen to paint images of a "soft emergency" in India amid backdoor pressures on media entities, that is not going to be an easy task.

Madhavan Narayanan is a senior journalist. He tweets as @madversity. The views expressed are personal
rajya sabha PTI1_4_2018_000050B rajya sabha

Moneycontrol News

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Shiv Sena, both of which are members of the ruling National Democratic Alliance, could abstain from voting in the election for the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson's post, News18 reported.

The election will be held on August 9, the penultimate day of the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

The SAD and Shiv Sena are reportedly upset after media reports suggested that JD(U) MP Harivansh Narayan Singh will be the NDA's candidate for the post.

The SAD is also upset because party MP Naresh Gujral was earlier considered a strong contender.

Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao has been approached by Bihar CM Nitish Kumar to gather support for the NDA candidate. KCR is expected to give an answer after consulting members of his party, News18 reported.

Moneycontrol could not independently verify the news.

Shiv Sena and the Akali Dal have three seats each in Rajya Sabha. Their abstention could dent support for the NDA's candidate since the Opposition already outnumbers the NDA in the upper house.

The NDA currently holds 90 of Rajya Sabha's 245 seats, while the Opposition holds 112, which is the halfway mark.

Vandana Chavan from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is believed to be a front-runner for the post of the upper house's Vice Chair, News18 reported.

Parties such as the AIADMK, TRS, YSR Congress and Biju Janata Dal (BJD), whose votes are uncertain, could hold the deciding votes.
MAN - Unlike Scania its sister concern MAN Truck and Bus, which is also a Volkswagen Group company, decided to completely exit the Indian market after several years of unfruitful operation. The company which exited in 2018 had formed a joint venture with Punes Force Motors. (Image; MAN)

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Volkswagen-owned MAN has decided to pull the plug on its manufacturing operations in India after failing to see any improvement in demand over the years.

MAN thus becomes the second major automotive brand after General Motors to call it quits in the last 14 months.

Volkswagen's sister concern Scania exited the bus body making business a few weeks ago to focus only on trucks.

In a statement, the Board of MAN Truck & Bus AG (MTB) said The company has decided to restructure the India organisation. This decision is based on MTB's global strategy to focus on premium segment markets. The manufacturing, sales, and exports of the CLA range will be stopped after the existing customer orders are completed."

The 12-year-old manufacturing plant in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh owned by MAN will be put up for sale. The company said it will try to seek a buyer who can accommodate the current workers. The plant has a capacity to make 10,000-12,000 units per annum.

GM, one of the world s biggest car makers, exited the domestic sales business in mid-2017 after years of accumulated losses. Eicher Motors and Polaris too decided to quit last year after sales of the only product Multix failed to take off.

MAN had entered into a joint venture with the Firodia-family led Force Motors in 2006 to manufacture and sell premium trucks in India. Force Motors, until then, was a licenced manufacturer of MAN trucks. Force Motors sold its stake in the JV company to MAN to make a complete exit in 2011.

Last month MAN had stated that it will halt all product development and model upgradation work with immediate effect in India without providing any reasons. This comes nearly two years before India adopts the stringent and expensive emission norm of Bharat Stage VI.

Cost of manufacturing trucks and buses are expected to shoot up significantly post BS-VI implementation on April 1, 2020. A typical commercial vehicle costing Rs 20 lakh will see its price rise by Rs 3.5 lakh under BS-VI.

Going forward, MAN Trucks India will become an R&D Centre for Excellence supporting global projects, the company said in a statement.

MAN will have aftersales as an active function for the next five years as part of its focus to provide support to its customers.

This is part of our commitment to customers to ensure that their vehicles receive appropriate care.

As a responsible employer, MAN is extending support to all employees impacted due to this development. The India management has taken appropriate measures to support the affected team members during the transition. We are also engaging with our dealer partners, suppliers, and other business associates to support them during this transition, MAN added.

Swedish truck and bus brand Scania AB, which is also owned by Volkswagen, exited the bus making operations in India in June this year. In July last year, Scania announced a tie-up with MG Motors for designing and manufacturing of premium buses for the Indian market.
South Africa's retail travel sector employs around 9,000 people, 73% of which are female. This is according to a 2017 industry assessment by the Association of Southern African Travel Agents (ASATA).

Piotr Marcinski via 123RF

Esmari Leibbrandt, Area Sales Manager, The Travel Corporation

Shameema Pillay, owner and manager of a Harvey World Travel franchised agency outlet, East London

Waseema Raven, Senior Ticketing Consultant, Club Travel

Although not without its challenges, the retail travel sector has evolved into a dynamic hub for young female travel professionals who are leaders in their field and promote travel with #PeaceofMind.In celebration of #WomenMonth this August, we chatted to a few of the many female travel professionals whose careers are flying highLeibbrandt recently scooped Flight Centres Top Land Supplier Representative award. Her colleagues describe her as the epitome of a peoples person, and she represents six of The Travel Corporations travel brands. Leibbrandt also manages a perfect impersonation ofI would have to say, offering more travel benefits upfront. There are plenty of skilled professionals out there who simply lack travel experience and, therefore, avoid the industry. Better maternity benefits is something else to considerNever give up. Even though the industry can be challenging, experience and passion are invaluable. If you truly work hard, the world becomes your oyster. It is as simple as that.Definitely [a preference for] the Eastern Mediterranean, specifically Turkey, which is becoming increasingly popular.Pillay helped her Harvey World Travel branch raise R22,000 at a recent golf day in June, with part of the proceeds donated to the Eyabantwana Childrens Trust as well as Friends of the East London Zoo. Pillay and her teammates also participated in the CANSA Relay for Life in March.No. I believe our industry is very much female-centred. In East London 80 to 90% of owners and consultants are women.No. In my experience, there is still a perception that women are better equipped to manage the travel needs of clients. There is also a belief that women have better organisational and administrative skills and that women are more travel orientated than men, so, in my opinion, we need to feature more men in promotional material and adverts to close the gap.It would be great if we could bring back some of the incentives [that] we had in the past from airlines, tour operators [and] for all travel staff, whether a consultant, receptionist or those that handle the accounts. This would be a major factor.Firstly, you need to have a passion for the industry. This can be a cut-throat industry and you need to possess the ability to deal with immense pressure, 24/7. A family support base is also critical, as some of your family time will be taken up with long working hours, as well as after hours.Raven has grown from strength to strength in her department. Described by her colleagues as eager to learn, hardworking, loyal and meticulous at what she does, her performance has put her error ratio below 1% and helped her win the Exceptional Employee of the year award in 2015/2016.More travel incentives, but also added opportunities for women to be their own boss, allowing them to have more say in the work output, and being able to work remotely under certain circumstances.Travel is not always as glamorous as it seems from the outside. One has to be tough to handle the challenges and be a go-getter in order to get the best deal for your client. It is an exciting industry, always changing and evolving. It definitely keeps you on your toes, which I love!Travel to Asia is really picking up with so many affordable packages, not to mention those beautiful beaches, amazing weather, delicious food, and cost-saving gifts for family and friends back home. What more could you ask for?
Rank 3 | Company: SpaceX | Country: United States | Industry: Space flight | Venture valuation: $46 billion (Image: Reuters)

SpaceX on Tuesday successfully re-launched its used Block 5 rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, deploying the Indonesian Merah Putih satellite in the orbit just over half an hour later.

The Block 5 rocket or Falcon 9s first stage booster also re-landed successfully on one of the companys drone ships Of Course I Still Love parked a few hundred miles east of Cape Canaveral in the Atlantic. It became the 28th booster that SpaceX has ever recovered.

With its successful landing, Falcon 9 may well go into space for the third time.

This was the first time that SpaceX reused one of its new powerful Block 5 boosters  the final upgrade of the Falcon 9 that is supposed to be able to go to space and back for 100 times.

SpaceX had used Falcon 9 in May to send up a large communications satellite for Bangladesh from Florida. After the vehicle landed on one of SpaceXs drone ships on completion of its flight, the company did its inspection and refurbishment over the last three months to get it ready for flight again.

We are going to be very rigorous in taking this rocket apart and confirming our design assumptions to be confident that it is indeed able to be reused without being taken apart, Elon Musk, SpaceXs founder and CEO, had said during a conference call with reporters, referring to the first Block 5 booster.

Musk had said the Block 5s first stage booster is designed to fly 10 times with no scheduled refurbishment and with moderate scheduled maintenance, Block 5 first stages could be capable of 100 missions.

He had explained that such reuse goals are crucial to SpaceXs long-term mission of reducing the cost of space transportation. SpaceX aims to eventually launch a Falcon 9 rocket, recover the booster, and re-launch it within 24 hours.

Todays launch was the third SpaceX mission in 16 days, and the companys 15th launch of the year overall.

The Merah Putih satellite will provide C-band telecommunications services over Indonesia and India. The new satellite will replace Telkom 1, which failed in a mysterious debris-shedding event in geostationary orbit last year.

The new telecom craft, designed for a 16-year life, was built by SSL in Palo Alto, California.
Chinese phone maker Vivo is celebrating Indian Independence Day this year by offering its flagship Nex and V9 at Rs 1947 each, a fraction of their actual costs.

Recently launched Vivo Nex is otherwise available at Rs 47,990, 25 times the price company is offering during the Freedom Carnival. Similarly, the non-offer price of Vivo V9 is Rs 20,990.

The devices are offered during 7th to 9th August and are part of flash deals. The sale will open at 12 pm each day and will run till the stock lasts. The devices will be available at first come first serve basis.

The company has also put XE100 Earphones, USB Cable and XE680 Premium Earphones on sale for Rs 72 each during the period. The sale is available only on the website of Vivo.

A customer who successfully places the order during the sale must complete the purchase within 10 minutes from the beginning of the Flash Sale, failing which the order will be cancelled.

The company is also offering Rs 4,000 cashback on purchase of Vivo Nex using the HDFC Credit card.

Vivo Nex features

Vivo Nex, launched last month in India, packs in a lot of innovative features which include in-display fingerprint sensor where the entire bottom half of the screen can scan your fingerprint. Next in line is a retractable front camera which pops out in just 0.8 seconds and a display which doubles up as earpiece using the Screen SoundCasting Technology.

The device features a massive 6.59-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2316*1080p and an aspect ratio of 19.3:9. It has dimensions of 162mm x 77mm x 7.98mm and is slightly on the higher side of weighing scale at 199 grams.

On the optics front, it comes with a dual-rear camera setup with 12MP + 5MP sensors with aperture rates of f/1.8 and f/2.4, respectively. Other features of the camera include 4-Axis OIS, Slow Motion, Backlight HDR, Live Photo, Portrait Bokeh (dual cameras), Panorama, Time Lapse, Face Beauty, AR Stickers, Filters.
Even as the number of HIV-related cases reduces across the country, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura have emerge as the new hotspots for HIV, according to a report in The Hindu.

Incidences of HIV cases are rising in the north eastern states due to the high-risk behavior of Injecting Drug Users (IDUs), and unsafe sexual practices, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Four sites in Mizoram and one in Tripura have higher prevalence of HIV in IDUs. While in rest of India the HIV prevalence in IDUs is 6.3 percent, in three places at Aizwal, Champhai and Kolasib, it is 37.44 percent, 33.06 percent and 38.14 percent, respectively.

The National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) conducted a biennial study, The HIV Sentinel Surveillance (HSS) according to which HIV prevalence is highest in Mizoram (1.19 percent), Nagaland (0.82 percent), Meghalaya (0.73 percent), Tripura (0.56 percent) and Manipur (0.47 percent).

According to a survey conducted in December 2017, higher HIV prevalence was recorded among pregnant women visiting ante-natal clinics (ANC) in the north eastern states as against places across India.

Six centres in Mizoram, two in Meghalaya and one in Tripura recorded HIV prevalence of more than 1 percent, compared with HIV prevalence of 0.28 percent among pregnant women visiting ANCs in other places in India.

In case of sex workers, prevalence of HIV was as high as 24.68 percent in Aizwal district compared with 1.6 percent for other sites in the country.
The new Winnie the Pooh movie, Christopher Robin will not release in China since President Xi Jinping is wary about the comparisons with the fictional character, as per a report in the Hollywood Reporter.

The live-action film, which premieres in India on August 10 released worldwide this Friday except in China.

While the Chinese censor board has not furnished a reason for the film's denial, reports suggest that comparison between President Jinping and the amicable cartoon character, who has become a symbol of political dissent, might be the reason behind it.

According to political analysis company Global Risk Insights, the comparison between Jinping and Winnie the Pooh are viewed by Beijing as "a serious effort to undermine the dignity of the presidential office and Xi himself".



A bear, however hard he tries, Falls foul of Chinese censors' eyes https://t.co/ToOCHHZT7I pic.twitter.com/8H9ITqIc1M

 Financial Times (@FT) July 16, 2017

The uncanny connection between the two, first surfaced in 2013 when a picture of President Jinping walking along with former US President Barack Obama was posted alongside a picture of Winnie the Pooh and Tigger.

The comparison once again made rounds in 2014, when an image of Jinping shaking hands with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was posted on Twitter juxtapositioned to a picture of Pooh and Eeyore.

Ever since, the memes have taken a life of their own so much that the Chinese authorities have been banning the images of the Disney character on social media since last year.

Global Risks Insights touted the 2015 picture showing President Jinping in a motorcade alongside an image of Pooh as "China's most censored photo."
A employee uses his mobile phone as he walks past the company logo of Baidu at its headquarters in Beijing, August 5, 2010. REUTERS/Barry Huang/File Photo GLOBAL BUSINESS WEEK AHEAD PACKAGE - SEARCH "BUSINESS WEEK AHEAD JULY 25" FOR ALL IMAGES - RTSJGAV

Baidu Inc is prepared to win against Alphabet Inc's Google in China, its chief executive officer said on social media, amid rumblings the U.S. search engine giant was planning to re-enter a market it left eight years ago.

Google's search engine has been largely blocked in China since 2010, when the company exited the market over ethical concerns related to China's strict censorship laws. Baidu dominates the domestic search engine space currently.

Last week, Google was developing a censored version of its search engine to enter China, citing information from the firm's employees and Chinese officials. The plans were earlier reported by the news website Intercept.

In a posting on a private social media account on Tuesday, Baidu CEO Robin Li said if the two companies come head to head, "Baidu will win again". "Chinese companies today have plenty of ability and confidence" to compete globally, he added.

A Baidu spokeswoman confirmed the posting, which was shared by local media, was authentic.

Li was reacting to an article posted by state media outlet People's Daily which said Google was welcome in China but must abide by local laws. The report has since been removed from People Daily's Twitter and Facebook accounts.

The article was originally circulated in another state media newspaper on Monday.Google declined to comment on the report and Li's comments.

News of Google's plan to return with a censored search app, criticized by human rights advocates as a blow to global free speech, comes at a time when China has stepped up scrutiny of business dealings involving US tech firms including Facebook Inc, Apple Inc and Qualcomm Inc amid intensifying trade tensions between the countries.

Apple has removed hundreds of apps from its Chinese app store in the past year under increasingly strict censorship laws championed by Chinese president Xi Jinping.

Facebook, whose social media products are banned in China, is also making efforts to enter the restrictive market.

Last month, it said it was opening an innovation hub in the eastern city of Zhejiang, but only hours later the announcement of the project's registration was pulled by regulators from a national database.
Answer: Ajit Jain. He is tipped to be Warren Buffetts successor at Berkshire Hathaway (Image: Reuters)

Shares of Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway Inc surged on Monday to their highest level since March after the conglomerate reported strong second-quarter results in several major business lines.

Berkshire on Saturday said operating profit rose 67 percent to $6.89 billion as the Geico car insurer won market share despite raising rates, and faster U.S. economic growth boosted shipping demand at the BNSF railroad.

Analysts expected operating profit of just $5.57 billion. Net income was $12.01 billion, including unrealized gains from a roughly 5 percent stake in iPhone maker Apple Inc that would now be worth more than $50 billion.

U.S. gross domestic product grew in the second quarter at a 4.1 percent annualized rate, the fastest in nearly four years, the Department of Commerce has estimated.

Berkshires Class A shares were up $9,619, or 3.2 percent, at $314,290 in Monday afternoon trading.

Results have reflected a really robust U.S. economy, Jim Shanahan, an Edward Jones analyst who rates Berkshire buy, said in a phone interview. I expect that to continue, and given Berkshires large domestic footprint it would have relatively limited exposure to a trade war.

Berkshires more than 90 businesses also include Marmon and Precision Castparts industrial parts, Berkshire Hathaway Energy, Dairy Queen ice cream and Fruit of the Loom underwear.

Its other investments include stocks such as American Express, Coca-Cola and Wells Fargo.

That may prompt Buffett and Vice Chairman Charlie Munger to conduct Berkshires first stock repurchase since December 2012, under a new policy allowing buybacks when the stock price is below their conservative view of Berkshires intrinsic value. The old policy forbade buybacks when Berkshire traded, as it long has, at more than 20 percent above book value.

Berkshire ended June with $111.1 billion of cash and equivalents, in part reflecting its lack of a major acquisition since Buffett bought Precision Castparts in January 2016.
Coal waits to be loaded on train cars to depart the Hobet mine in Boone County, West Virginia, U.S. May 12, 2016. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo - RTSQUBP

Four workers were killed and nine were missing after an explosion at a small coal mine in China's Guizhou province on Monday night, state-owned Xinhua News reported on Tuesday citing local authorities.

The incident happened at Zimujia coal mine, run by private-owned Pannan Coal Investment Co, in Panzhou city. The coal mine has designed annual capacity of 300,000 tonnes.

Cause of explosion was unclear, while rescue work was underway, it said.

Benchmark thermal coal futures soared as much as 5.5 percent to 622 yuan ($90.80) a tonne, their highest in 11 months, during early trade on Tuesday, as market expects more stringent inspections on coal mines across the country might lead to tight supply.

The accident comes not long after a blast at an iron ore mining project in Liaoning that killed 11 people in June.

According to Guizhou Energy Administration file, the coal mine was ordered to rectify on some safety issues during a safety inspection conducted by local authorities in late April.

Pannan Coal cannot be reached for comment. Panzhou city government declined to comment.
A view of a rally celebrating North Korea's progress in their nuclear and missile programme in this undated photo released by North Korea's Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) in Pyongyang. (Reuters)

Pyongyang today released a South Korean detainee "arrested for entering the North illegally" last month, Seoul's unification ministry said, as ties improve between the two countries following a summit between their leaders in April.

"Our side received a South Korean national surnamed Seo, born in 1984, through Panmunjom from the North at 11:00 am (0200 GMT)" on Tuesday, the ministry said in a statement, referring to the truce village in the Demilitarized Zone dividing the two countries.

The release followed a message from Pyongyang on Monday informing Seoul that the North Korean authorities had arrested the South Korean for "entering the North illegally on July 22", the statement added.
Answer: Donald Trump.

US President Donald Trump warned the world against doing business with Iran on Tuesday as he hailed the "most biting sanctions ever imposed", triggering a mix of anger, fear and defiance in Tehran.

"The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed, and in November they ratchet up to yet another level," Trump wrote on Twitter.

"Anyone doing business with Iran will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less." Within hours of the sanctions taking effect, German carmaker Daimler said it was halting its business activities in Iran.

Trump's May withdrawal from a landmark 2015 nuclear agreement had already spooked investors and triggered a run on the Iranian rial long before nuclear-related sanctions went back into force.

"I feel like my life is being destroyed. Sanctions are already badly affecting people's lives. I can't afford to buy food, pay the rent," said one construction worker on the streets of the capital.

The sanctions reimposed today, which target access to US banknotes and key industries such as cars and carpets, were unlikely to cause immediate economic turmoil.

Iran's markets were actually relatively buoyant, with the rial strengthening by 20 per cent since Sunday after the government relaxed foreign exchange rules and allowed unlimited, tax-free gold and currency imports.

But the second tranche, which kicks in on November 5 and targets Iran's vital oil sector, could be far more damaging -- even if several key customers such as China, India and Turkey have refused to significantly cut their purchases.

In a statement on Monday before the sanctions were reimposed, Trump said he was "open to reaching a more comprehensive deal" with Iran, which covered "its ballistic missile programme and its support for terrorism." But his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani dismissed the idea of talks while crippling sanctions were in effect.

"They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation," Rouhani told state television. "Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense." - 'Legitimate business' -

European governments are infuriated by Trump's strategy, which has prompted many of their large firms to leave Iran for fear of US penalties. Daimler said it had "suspended our already limited activities in Iran in accordance with the applicable sanctions".

British Foreign Office Minister Alastair Burt said that the "Americans have really not got this right".

The nuclear deal was important "not only to the region's security but the world's security," he told the BBC.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif told reporters the global reaction to Trump's move showed that the US was diplomatically "isolated". Iran ally Syria branded Washington's move "illegal under international law".

"The US administration's policies have a proclivity for hegemony and arrogance," said a foreign ministry official, quoted by state news agency SANA.

Russia's foreign ministry said it was "deeply disappointed" by the return of sanctions, adding that it would do "everything necessary" to save the 2015 nuclear deal.

Zarif today welcomed to Tehran his North Korean counterpart, Ri Yong Ho, as Pyongyang also faces US pressure to scrap its nuclear capabilities.

Most Iranians see US hostility as a basic fact of life, so their frustration is largely directed at their own leaders for not handling the situation better. "Prices are rising again, but the reason is government corruption, not US sanctions," said Ali, a 35-year-old decorator in Tehran.

Long-running discontent over high prices, unemployment, water shortages and the lack of political reform has sparked numerous protests over the past week, though a verifiable information is scarce due to heavy reporting restrictions.

Many hope and believe that Iran's leaders will "drink the poison cup" and negotiate with the US eventually.

There have been rumours that Trump and Rouhani could meet in New York in September on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly -- though Rouhani reportedly rejected US overtures for a meeting at last year's event. Two countries that have welcomed the tough new US policy are Iran's regional rivals, Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the renewed sanctions as "an important moment for Israel, for the US, for the region, for the whole world." Iran's currency has lost around half its value since Trump announced the US would withdraw from the nuclear pact.

But the last two days have seen the rial's value surge by a fifth following the arrest of the central bank's currency chief and new plans being announced.

The new rules mean foreign exchange bureaus will reopen after a disastrous attempt to fix the value of the rial in April backfired spectacularly, with corrupt traders making a fortune out of a mushrooming black market.
United Nations also extended the Diwali greeting on the occasion. A happy and safe Diwali to all those who are celebrating!, tweeted the UN.

The UN Security Council today approved US-drafted measures aimed at ensuring that tough sanctions on North Korea do not impede deliveries of humanitarian aid to the isolated country.

Nearly half of North Korea's population - 10 million people - are undernourished, according to UN officials, who have reported a drop in food production last year.

UN resolutions specify that sanctions should not affect humanitarian aid, but relief organisations argue that strict trade and banking measures are creating bureaucratic obstacles and slowing down the flow of vital supplies.

The United States last month proposed new guidelines to allow aid groups and UN agencies to quickly obtain exemptions from the council committee that oversees implementation of sanctions.

After weeks of negotiations, the proposal was approved today.

Dutch Deputy UN Ambassador Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, whose country chairs the sanctions committee, said the guidelines will hopefully "provide clarity on delivering humanitarian aid to the North Korean people without violating sanctions."

"Our ultimate goal is the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and the sanctions are very important to that end," she said.

A notice will be sent to the UN's 193 member-states by the committee "to provide a clear explanation" of the procedure for exemptions which will "improve the delivery of humanitarian assistance" to North Korea, a committee document said.
The social path to optimising your content marketing efforts

Your business having a social presence is all good and well, but if there's no strategy in place, you're wasting your time and potentially damaging your reputation.







Chief magic maker Jessica McEndoo taught us pretty much all there is to know about social media and how to optimise our efforts to achieve return on investment (ROI).



As our editor-in-chief Leigh Andrews has covered some of the course content, I thought Id interview McEndoo on the course itself



Clear content marketing strategy = happy customers + happy boss

Why and when did you start offering the social media marketing course? Why and when did you start offering the social media marketing course? I was among five others who recently attended Social Paths two-day social media / content marketing course at its office in Fourways, where we learnt how to create a 12-month content plan, how to use various tools and platforms to assist us behind the scenes, and some magic tricks of the trade to help manage our social media accounts.Chief magic maker Jessica McEndoo taught us pretty much all there is to know about social media and how to optimise our efforts to achieve return on investment (ROI).As our editor-in-chief Leigh Andrews has covered some of the course content, I thought Id interview McEndoo on the course itself

What is the objective, for Social Path and your students? What is the objective, for Social Path and your students?

Why is it important that people working in the social media space are educated in and understand the platforms and tools available to optimise their social media strategies, and that they have a strategy in the first place? Why is it important that people working in the social media space are educated in and understand the platforms and tools available to optimise their social media strategies, and that they have a strategy in the first place?

Besides the course, how else can Social Path assist those with navigating the space or strategising effectively going forward? Besides the course, how else can Social Path assist those with navigating the space or strategising effectively going forward?

Digital market research and analysis



Social Media and Google assets audits



Content marketing communication strategies



Consulting and or marketing management



Community monitoring and KPI reporting



Policy creations for online reputation management

How often do you hold these workshops? How often do you hold these workshops?

What does the course cover? What does the course cover?

Content marketing (pooping candy floss)



Keeping Google happy (knowing your audience)



Social media landscape (finding your customers)



Platforms and advertising ROI (tools for results)



ORM - CYA (covering your ass in a crisis)

What are some common misconceptions about social media marketing that the course seeks to clarify? What are some common misconceptions about social media marketing that the course seeks to clarify?

What has the general response been? What has the general response been?

The course I did with Jessica was very insightful. I gained a lot of knowledge which I could put into practice in growing my own personal blog and social media account. Jess has very broad and in-depth knowledge about digital marketing and she is fun and bubbly too. She also gave all her students' queries and concerns individual attention. I would, therefore for all the above reasons, highly recommend doing her digital strategy and social media marketing course.

If theres one thing your students learn, what do hope that would be? If theres one thing your students learn, what do hope that would be?

When is the next course? When is the next course?

Do you only run these in Johannesburg? Do you only run these in Johannesburg?

Any plans to expand or change this offering in any way? Any plans to expand or change this offering in any way?

Jessica Tennant's articles About Jessica Tennant Jess is Senior Editor: Marketing & Media at Bizcommunity.com. She is also a contributing writer. Jess is Senior Editor: Marketing & Media at Bizcommunity.com. She is also a contributing writer. moc.ytinummoczib@swengnitekram

Social Path started offering the course mid-2018. We looked at courses that are available and they just didnt cover how to really use content marketing and social media to get a real ROI.Our mission is to enable anyone in marketing to reach their potential. Understanding the tools and how you can meet your business objectives is key to success. We want to empower our students to create, implement and measure their efforts for the good of their fans.For want of a better phrase failing to plan, is planning to fail... The social media landscape changes continually, but your business goals dont.To achieve greatness, remain relevant and create a loyal following of real customers, you need to keep your finger on the pulse. Knowing how to measure your investment enables you to be more strategic and optimise your efforts. Its about less of the fluff and more of the P2P.Social Path are enablers. We will consult with brands, agencies and businesses to align their goals with measurable results. Our offering consists of:We currently offer the content marketing and social media workshop every two months, which we would like to take to monthly.Businesses also have the option to have a tailored training made for their marketing teams to align the business teams to reach their full potential.Social Path are a contagious P2P digital marketing consultancy, so our training focuses on researching your market and analysing the gaps in your digital assets to meet the demands of your customers. The outline of the two days focuses on:Marketing is no longer about B2B and B2C, its P2P (person-to-person). Digital marketing is measurable, and you can work out your ROR (return on relationships). The common misconception is that social media lives with marketers only, social media and content belongs to everyone or every touch point in your business. Even the tea lady can make or break you.Our first course went quite well. We had giggles and learnings. One student gave her personal recommendation:Social Path is a new player in the digital marketing world, so a few people were unsure of what to expect. Each workshop is different as we have different levels of skills in the room, with an array of business objectives. With our course content, we know its about the people, so spending time to take your marketing hat off opens a world of possibility.If you havent researched and planned, stop right now. The ripple effect of social media is five years, so make sure that every word, phrase, post, image, video, blog, webpage has purpose and meaning and can be measured against your plan with KPIs.We are currently planning to run another two-day workshop on 30-31 August in Johannesburg. Its a Thursday and Friday opportunity to get out of the office, have fun and learn. Our students who book and pay before 17 August get a 10% discount.We want to offer the course nationally and there are plans to branch out into Botswana this year still. Everyone deserves to learn best practice and we are open to suggestions. Weve even had a few requests for PESocial Path will be looking to expand the course content into mini half-day practical sessions beginning next year. Our feedback has been that it is a lot to take in a new way of thinking. So, putting the learnings into practice completely makes sense and will further enable our students to grow in leaps and bounds.
Australian Economic News Updates Enjoy a contrarian outlook on the Australian economy  and how movements beyond our borders could affect your stocks, retirement fund or the value of your home. Go here for more.

Daily Chinese Economy News Chinas economy has been a powerhouse in recent years. But times are a changing and China, for better or worse, is a subject of heated debate. Are there investment opportunities to be still had from China, and how will they affect your wealth at home? Find out here.

US Economy News The US economy is drowning under the weight of its public and private debt. But is it too soon to call the end of this financial, military and political empire? Only time will tell. Either way, you need to make sure your investments are on the right side of the trade.

Eurozone Economy The Eurozone is in a huge mess right now. Can it hold it together or will, one-by-one, member states leave the Euro and go at it on their own? More importantly, what consequences will this have for Australia and your investments? More on that here.

Global Economy News Dont just follow the news on the global economy  get an inside peek into whats happening in developed and emerging economies around the world  and what it could mean for your investments. Go here for more.
The investigation was launched in March after the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency received employee whistleblower complaints and referral letters from two Senate committees. The council oversees inspector generals across government agencies.

In a letter to Wertheimers lawyer, the council informed the inspector general that it received complaints alleging she had engaged in substantial misconduct. The misconduct allegedly involved Wertheimer coercing auditors to accept buyouts or risk poor performance reviews.

Wertheimer was also charged with demeaning employees whom she thought were cooperating with investigators, seeking to identify whistleblowers on her staff, and gossiping about an employees confidential Equal Employment Opportunity complaint.

The councils letter also said that the investigation was looking into claims that her actions were linked to Watt. It was alleged that Wertheimers decisions were influenced by threats from Watt to cut the FHFA-OIGs staff and budget over critical reports.

Employees in the FHFA-OIG office vigorously defended Wertheimer and their oversight activity, Politico reported. Noting recent reports on cybersecurity and risk, the employees rejected the view that there was interference or influence from Watt.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 7)  The House of Representatives approved the motion of Majority Leader Nonoy Andaya to recognize Danilo Suarez as the minority leader.

Andaya's motion during session Tuesday afternoon was decided upon by the plenary through a voice vote, or by lawmakers shouting ayes and nays.

Suarez got to keep his post despite campaigning and voting for former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to be House Speaker.

Marikina Representative Miro Quimbo raised "continuing objection" against the recognition of Suarez as minority leadership.

"This representation would like to put on record our continuing objection of the recognition of Congressman Danilo Suarez as the Minority leader for simply being illegal, not in due course, and at the same time in direct violation of the Supreme Court decision," he said.

He cited the case of Baguilat vs. Alvarez, wherein the high court upheld the rule in the House of Representatives that the minority leader should be elected by members of the minority.

Quimbo earlier claimed that he was the rightful minority leader after he was elected by a group of congressmen who either voted against House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo or abstained during her election in July.

He said they would take the necessary rigors needed to bring order to the House of Representatives following this decision.

Former House Minority Leader Rudy Farinas also maintained that he was against recognizing Suarez as minority leader.

Farinas earlier said that if the plenary decided to retain Suarez as minority leader, he would question the decision before the Supreme Court.

Meanwhile, Caloocan City Representative Edgar Erice believes Suarez will not be able to deliver check and balance in the House because he is a close ally of Arroyo.

"Yung mismong minority leader ang umamin na kaya maraming gustong sumali sa minority kasi malapit siya sa Speaker. How can you expect a minority leader so close to the Speaker to deliver check and balance in this House?" he said.

[Translation:The minority leader himself admitted that his closeness to the Speaker was the reason why a lot of people wanted to join the minority. How can you expect a minority leader so close to the Speaker to deliver check and balance in this House?]

Erice also pointed out, in an interview with CNN Philippines, Suarez's statement about keeping his position as minority leader for legacy, and not leaving its office that he constructed.

"Again the reply of Suarez is simple, because I want to leave a legacy, I want to retire from Congress as Minority leader. Ms. Pinky Webb even replied that isn't that too personal to be a reason? And Mr. Suarez added, 'ayokong alisan yung aking opisina kasi ginastusan ko yan [I don't want to leave my office because I spent for that].' Ang sagot ni Pinky Webb, hindi ba selfish yang ganyang reason?" Erice said.

In the interview on July 31, Suarez said, "Retiring from Congress as minority leader is something that I envisioned to wind up my career... Plus, the fact I don't want them to take my office. I built my office myself."

Erice said Suarez's statements put into question the credibility of the House of Representatives.

Suarez, however, maintained theirs was a constructive minority, and explained that he believes the job of the minority is to watch for the executive department's performance.

"Ang minority po, 80 percent ng trabaho ng minority ay bantayan ang ginagawa ng executive department. Nung ako ang minority at oversight, Congress on break, tuloy-tuloy meeting ng aking committees at kasamahan because we need to see to it that the expenditures of the government is properly accounted for. And that's what we plan to do in the 2019 budget," he said.

[Translation: Eighty percent of the minority's job is to watch over what's happening at the executive department. When I was minority and oversight, Congress on break, my committees and colleagues continued to work because we need to see to it that the expenditures of the government are properly accounted for. And that's what we plan to do in the 2019 budget.]

"I repeat and I will be like a broken record. Ang minority since the time I assumed office is constructive. Hindi po kami destructive. And with this remaining session in the 17th Congress, halos tatlong buwan na lang tayo magtatrabaho, bakit pa tayo mag-aaway e napakadaming trabaho kelangan natin gampanan?" he said.

[Translation:I repeat and I will be like a broken record. The minority, since the time I assumed office, is constructive. We are not destructive. And with this remaining session in the 17th Congress, we only have around three months to work. Why should we fight when there are a lot of things to be done?]
How creative artistes are fighting against ...
Associated Press Writer

A San Antonio gang member was headed to the Texas death chamber Wednesday for the shooting death of a man during a robbery attempt in the driveway of his victim's home.

Mauriceo Brown, 31, confessed to the 1996 slaying of Michael LaHood Jr., 25, when he and three companions, high on marijuana and alcohol, were arrested about an hour after the shooting. One companion, Kenneth Foster, also received the death penalty but doesn't have an execution date. The two others, including one who testified against Brown, received long prison terms.

The early morning attack capped a spree by the street gang members who called themselves the Hoover 94 Crips. At least four other people were robbed that night.

"They were out pretty much on a rampage, stoned to the bone, victimizing people," said Jack McGinnis, one of the prosecutors in the cases against Brown and Foster. The two were tried together.

Brown would be the 15th Texas prisoner executed this year in the nation's busiest capital punishment state and the first of two on consecutive evenings in Huntsville.

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected appeals filed by Brown's attorneys moments before the scheduled execution.

Brown had been recanting his confession, saying his accomplices threatened his family if he didn't take the fall for the slaying.

"That claim is preposterous," said Mike Ramos, who was a Bexar County assistant district attorney in 1997 and also prosecuted Brown and Foster. "He has absolutely no credibility. Any court could see he has zip."

In court before and during his trial, Brown also changed the circumstances of his confession, describing LaHood's death as self-defense and also an accident. He also blamed one of the other men in the car with him for the shooting.

Brown, in a recent interview on death row, called his trial "a mockery based on a lie that I made a statement and everybody else made a statement that I was the shooter."

"Even if his new story is true, that doesn't say he's not guilty of capital murder and deserving of the death penalty," McGinnis said. "His new story doesn't get him out of the woods. It gets him to where Foster is right now. They're both equally dangerous."

LaHood's two brothers planned to witness Brown's execution.

"It is painful for us," said Norma LaHood, their mother. "Our wounds will never heal. You don't heal from the loss of a child."

Foster, Brown, Dwayne Dillard and Julius Steen were cruising San Antonio and robbing people when they spotted LaHood and his girlfriend driving and began following them, winding up at LaHood's driveway about 2 a.m.

According to testimony, Brown jumped out, walked up to LaHood, demanded his car keys, then opened fire when LaHood couldn't produce the keys. LaHood, shot through the eye, died instantly.

Less than an hour later, Foster was pulled over for speeding and driving erratically. All of them were on probation for earlier felonies and were arrested for LaHood's death.

Brown blamed the shooting on Dillard, now serving life for killing a taxi driver across the street from the Alamo two weeks before laHood was killed. Steen testified at Brown's trial and received a life sentence in a plea bargain.

Brown testified the shooting was in self-defense, that he believed LaHood had a gun and that he heard it click. Authorities, however, never found another weapon near LaHood's body.

On Thursday, Robert Anderson, 40, faced execution for the 1993 slaying of a 5-year-old Amarillo girl who was abducted, sexually assaulted, beaten, choked and strangled before her body was stuffed into a cooler and thrown into a garbage container. Anderson has asked that no appeals be filed to stop his punishment.

___

On the Net:

Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Death Row http://www.tdcj.state.tx.us/stat/deathrow.htm

Mauriceo Brown http://www.deathrow-usa.us/MauriceoBrown.htm
3 1 of 3 Sanchez Energy Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Sanchez Energy Show More Show Less 3 of 3





Houston oil and gas producer Sanchez Energy Corp. posted a greater than expected loss for the second quarter as it lost tens of millions of dollars on futures contracts that lock in prices and declining production at new wells in parts of the Eagle Ford Shale.

The company said it lost nearly $35 million, or 71 cents a share, for the three months that ended June 30. Sanchez Energy Corp. earned profits of $30.4 million, or 40 cents a share, in the same period of 2017.
The first person to plead guilty in the criminal scheme that led to the downfall of ex-San Antonio lawmaker Carlos Uresti wont have to serve any prison time.

Eric Nelson, the former FourWinds Logistics ecommerce and marketing director who admitted to doctoring a bank record to make it appear than it had more money than it did, was sentenced to four years probation Tuesday in San Antonio federal court.

You got a pretty generous sentence, but I think you earned it, Senior U.S. District Judge David Ezra told a Nelson, 33.

Ezra credited Nelsons candid and honest testimony during a 2016 bankruptcy court proceeding for providing a blueprint for the government in its investigation of the FourWinds scheme.

RELATED: Cowboys Dancehall owners make drastic move to save club

FourWinds was a San Antonio oil field services company that bought and sold sand used in fracking. Prospective investors were lured with promises of quick riches but the venture was short-lived. Investor money was misspent to support the wild lifestyle of its CEO, Stan Bates, who pleaded guilty to securities fraud, money laundering and other charges and is scheduled to be sentenced next month.

The company collapsed into bankruptcy in 2015 amid allegations that investors were defrauded. Prosecutors said FourWinds was a Ponzi scheme.

Nelson pleaded guilty to a single charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He cooperated with federal investigators and testified during Urestis trial earlier this year in hopes of consideration at his sentencing.

Under sentencing guidelines, Nelson could have faced 46 to 57 months in prison. Both prosecutors and Robbie L. Ward, Nelsons lawyer, asked the judge to sentence him to probation.

While (Nelson) didnt pay an unimportant role, (the scheme) would have occurred without his presence, Ezra said. So it does not seem to me in the short run or the long run that incarceration would serve any good purpose here.

A relieved Nelson hugged his parents following the hearing. They were joined by members of St. Marks Episcopal Church, where Ward said Nelson now works as a facilities manager.

Like other defendants already sentenced in the case, Nelson will be responsible for paying $6.3 million in restitution to the FourWinds investors who were defrauded.

Nelson apologized to the FourWinds investors and the court.

I never will be able to forgive myself for my time at FourWinds, he told the judge. Ezra wondered why Nelson just didnt quit FourWinds.

I was beyond scared, Nelson answered. It escalated and it kept getting worse and worse.

Nelson is the fourth person to be sentenced in the FourWinds case.

Uresti, who was the companys legal counsel, a 1 percent owner and who recruited investors, was found guilty of 11 felonies in February and later sentenced to 12 years in prison. His conviction led him to give up his law license and to resign from the state Senate in June.

Company consultant Gary Cain was sentenced to five years and eight months in prison. Both Uresti and Cain are appealing.

Bates was supposed to be sentenced Monday, but some late developments led the judge to reschedule the matter for Sept. 11.

RELATED: PAC opposing charter amendments sues city, union to block election

Bates pleaded guilty in January rather than stand trial with Uresti, the longtime San Antonio Democrat, and Cain. Nelson and two other FourWinds officials entered into plea agreements.

Laura Jacobs, FourWinds comptroller, was sentenced to a year and a day in a federal women's prison camp last month. Shannon Smith, a FourWinds owner and the chief operating officer, is scheduled to be sentenced next Tuesday.

Nelson testified during Uresti and Cains trial that Bates told him to add the numbers 187 in front of $98,896, the amount actually in FourWinds bank account, to make it appear that it had $18,798,896 in the bank. The statement was shown to investors and as proof of funds so FourWinds could buy sand.

Nelson said he initially resisted but ultimately gave in to Bates demand.

He threatened to shoot me in the back of the head, Nelson testified.

Nelson also admitted to doctoring documents that contained profit projections for FourWinds and its investors. One document showed a profit projection of $45,000, but in another document the next day, the profit projection was upped to $80,000. Nelson said he changed the documents on Bates orders.

Nelson was asked on the witness stand the reason for changing the numbers.

To make it look like a better investment, he said. The documents containing the conflicting numbers were forwarded to Uresti, who never questioned them, according to Nelson.

Patrick Danner is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | pdanner@express-news.net | Twitter: @AlamoPD
The owners of Cowboys Dancehall, the North East Side honky tonk, have once again sought bankruptcy protection to avoid losing the club at a foreclosure sale.

Cowboys Far West, the Arlington-based partnership that owns the club, filed a bare-bones petition for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in federal court Monday after its lender put the venue up for sale at a foreclosure auction scheduled for Tuesday.

A lawyer and spokeswoman for Cowboys Dancehall did not immediately return requests for comment.

Cowboys currently holds between $10 million and $50 million in assets and between $1 million and $10 million in liabilities, according to the Monday filing in U.S. bankruptcy court. The Bexar Appraisal District assessed the partnerships 11-acre property at 3030 NE Loop 410 at $4.8 million earlier this year.

The venue also owes more than $186,000 in taxes and late fees to Bexar County, according to the Bexar County Assessor-Collectors website.

This isnt Cowboys first rodeo. The partnership first filed for bankruptcy in 2016 when Business Property Lending, then its primary lender, initiated foreclosure proceedings in 2016  after the clubs owners fell behind on taxes and failed to pay a state fine for liquor violations. At that time, Cowboys owed creditors about $10 million.

But the club was allowed to remain open under a Chapter 11 reorganization plan approved in September by Chief U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Ronald King.

More Information See More Collapse

Cowboys secured a new lender  Oklahoma-based limited partnership Crossroads 2004  to take over its $4.2 million mortgage loan from Business Property Lending, a subsidiary of Florida-based EverBank Financial Corp.

A call to a number listed for Crossroads 2004 wasnt immediately returned.

Under the plan, Cowboys President Michael Murphy was allowed to remain in his position. The company was to continue to servicing its primary loan to Crossroads 2004 along with a $2.1 million mortgage made through a Houston community development corporation that is now held by Minnesota-based Prinsbank.

Cowboys also was supposed to pay Bexar County almost $154,000 in back taxes plus 12 percent interest over a 48-month period.

Joshua Fechter is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | jfechter@express-news.net | Twitter: @JFreports
San Antonio-based software development company GlobalScape Inc., which has been the subject of investigations by federal authorities, said Tuesday it will issue pink slips to about 40 workers.

The positions represent about 30 percent of the 135-person work force GlobalScape reported having as of March 31. A company spokeswoman refused to disclose the size of the work force.

GlobalScape CEO and President Matt Goulet said the company is realigning its sales force to better service its customers and to find more efficient operational processes. It had 57 sales and marketing personnel as of March 31, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

This reduction in force, while difficult, is an essential part of making the organization a stronger technological partner for our customers, a better investment for our shareholders, and a work environment rich with opportunity for our employees, Goulet said.

The company expects to take a $400,000 in restructuring charges on a pretax basis in the current quarter.

The job cuts come amid an ongoing criminal probe by federal prosecutors and the FBI into the companys dealings. This spring, a former company official pleaded guilty to wire fraud for intentionally inflating sales numbers.

The company in June restated its 2016 and first quarter 2017 financial results. The Securities and Exchange Commission has been investigating the circumstances surrounding the restatements.

The companys shares closed at $3.59 Tuesday, down half a penny.

Patrick Danner is a staff writer in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. Read him on our free site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com. | pdanner@express-news.net | Twitter: @AlamoPD
BRANFORD  Connecticut State Environmental Conservation Police worked alongside Branford Fire Department personnel to rescue an osprey Tuesday morning.

EnCon police responded to Dutch Wharf Marina in Branford after being asked to help get an osprey out of the rigging of a land-stored sailboat. The fire department and a wildlife rehabilitator were able to get the osprey unstuck.

The osprey was taken to a rehabilitation facility, A Place Called Hope. At the facility, the bird was assessed and they found that it had injured its right leg.

EnCon police said the osprey is likely to make a full recovery.
Houston-Galveston Area Council / Houston-Galveston Area Council

The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) invites residents, community leaders, business owners and elected officials to attend the final round of public meetings for the Waller County Transportation Plan.

The first meeting will be held on Aug. 14 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Royal High School Cafeteria in Brookshire. The second meeting will be held on Aug. 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Waller County Community Center in Prairie View.

Led by H-GAC, Waller County leaders initiated the transportation study last year to address the county's rapid growth. Along with the Texas Department of Transportation and H-GAC, the cities of Brookshire, Hempstead, Katy, Pattison, Prairie View, and Waller worked together to develop recommendations to address the existing and future transportation issues in Waller County.

"The Waller County Transportation Plan consists of two components including the mobility plan and thoroughfare plan," Carlene Mullins, Senior Transportation Planner for H-GAC, said. "The mobility plan recommends specific short and long-term improvements that intend to improve mobility across the county," she added.

Parts of the mobility plan outline recommendations for intersection signalization, road widenings, grade-separated railroad crossings, transit, bicycle and pedestrian projects. The thoroughfare plan is a long-range plan that identifies type and general location of future roadways which guides development, promotes road connectivity, and uniform road design standards. The thoroughfare plan does not identify specific projects or set a time frame for when identified corridors will be constructed.

"We encourage residents and stakeholders to attend one of the public meetings to provide feedback on the transportation recommendations developed for the Waller County Transportation," Mullins said. "The meetings are a come-and-go open house event for attendees to talk with us about the plan, share their concerns, and submit public comments."

H-GAC will provide reasonable accommodations for persons attending H-GAC functions. Requests from persons needing special accommodations should be received by H-GAC staff 24 hours prior to a function. The public meeting will be conducted in English with Spanish translators available. Requests for additional language interpreters or other special communication needs should be made at least two working days prior to a function. Call 713-993-2471 for assistance.

Visit http://hgacmpo.com/waller/ for more information about the plan. Comments from the public may also be emailed to PublicComments@h-gac.com, by calling 1-855-363-2516, or mailed to Transportation Public Information, Houston-Galveston Area Council, P.O. Box 22777, Houston, TX 77227-2777.




HARBOR BEACH  For one day only, the second annual AG Venture Day will be returning to the Harbor Beach area.

The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Last year, the Harbor Beach AG Venture Day saw over 130 people take farm tours as part of the event. The city of Harbor Beach and the event committee expect even more people visiting the event and taking farm tours during the day.

For those unfamiliar with this community and farm life, farm tours may be the most informative thing they could experience during the day. The two-hour tours leave Harbor Beach at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. Tourists will travel on large, comfortable buses to two area farms.

Information from the city of Harbor Beach said when visitors tour the beef farm, they will learn about raising beef cattle, including what they eat and how they are housed. At the dairy farm, tourists will view and learn about robots milking cows, raising baby calves and information about cow ultrasounds.

Those taking the tours will travel to both farms, back-to-back, on the same bus. The tours are free.

But AG Venture is much than farm tours.

The downtown streets of Harbor Beach will be filled with tractors and farm equipment. The show will be much like the citys truck show in June, although everything will be agricultural. Those not familiar with this type of equipment will be amazed by its size and complexity. Farmers will be on hand to discuss their equipment and answer questions.

Agriculture education booths will be set up along the street, and they will offer hands-on activities from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Equipment demonstrations take place at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

In addition, grain bin rescue demonstrations will take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

But this is not all this exciting day has to offer. Children will have a great time on the Murphy Museum lawn. They will have the opportunity to play games and be part of the pedal tractor pull contest. And for a real treat, adults and kids can take part in a Mooing Contest that takes place at 1:30 p.m. on the big stage.

For safety and convenience, the downtown streets will be closed off to traffic. All restaurants and business will be open.

In addition, the popular live band, Shotguns & Violin, will be playing during the day. Also, the Grice House Museum will be open Saturday with tours of the home and barn. Visiting the museum is well worth the half-mile trip. It is located north of town on M-25.
Lieutenant governor candidate in court

NEW YORK  New York City councilman Jumaane Williams has been sentenced to time served after he was convicted of blocking an ambulance during a protest over the detention of a prominent immigration rights activist in January.

A jury on Monday found Williams guilty of obstructing emergency services. He was acquitted of disorderly conduct and the more serious charge of obstruction of government services.

The 41-year-old Democrat from Brooklyn was arrested outside a federal building over the detention of Ravi Ragbir, a citizen of Trinidad who has been fighting deportation after a fraud conviction.

Williams launched his campaign to unseat incumbent Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul a few days after his arrest. They face off in the Democratic primary on Sept. 13.

Associated Press

Man who jumped from freezer cold-case suspect

NEW YORK  Authorities say a man who died after jumping out of a freezer and threatening employees with a knife at a New York City brunch spot was a suspected cold-case killer who'd just been released from jail in Boston.

Police say 54-year-old Carlton Henderson screamed "Away from me, Satan!" as he rushed out of the walk-in freezer at Sarabeth's Restaurant around 11 a.m. Sunday. Police say he went into cardiac arrest after kitchen employees stripped away the knife and took him to the floor.

Henderson was facing murder charges in the 1988 shooting deaths of 26-year-old William Medina and 22-year-old Antonio Dos Reis.

He had been in jail since his June 2017 arrest, but a judge ordered him released on his own recognizance last Wednesday after ruling to suppress key evidence.

 Associated Press

Former sanitarium in Saranac Lake up for sale

SARANAC LAKE  A former sanitarium from the 19th century that made the Adirondack village of Saranac Lake famous for curing tuberculosis is up for sale.

The Adirondack Daily Enterprise reports that the 64-acre former Trudeau Sanatorium is listed for $6.5 million and will be auctioned on Sept. 25.

The 29-building property is currently owned by the American Management Association, a New York City-based executive training firm that purchased the site after it closed in the 1950s.

Edward Livingston Trudeau, a New York physician who survived tuberculosis, founded the site as the Adirondack Cottage Sanitarium in 1885. He's the great-grandfather of Garry Trudeau, creator of the "Doonesbury" comic strip.

 Associated Press
WASHINGTON - The bones of two Union soldiers killed at the Civil War's Second Battle of Bull Run will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery on Sept. 6, the cemetery said Monday.

The men will be the first burials in the cemetery's new 27-acre section and will be accorded a military funeral with honors and escort, spokeswoman Kerry Meeker, said in an email. The ceremony is set for 3 p.m.

The National Park Service has said the two men, who were found in a burial or "limb pit" on the battlefield, were Northern soldiers. But they have yet to be identified and will be buried as unknowns, Meeker said.

Evidence of the pit, which contained the two skeletons and amputated limbs of 11 other individuals, was discovered in 2014 during excavation for a utility line. But it was not fully examined until 2015, the Park Service said.

The battle is also known as the Battle of Second Manassas, for the railroad junction then near the battlefield.

The two soldiers - known only as Burial 1 and Burial 2 - were placed side by side in the pit, which was probably located near a field hospital where they died.

Burial 1 still had the Confederate bullet that killed him buried in his broken right-thigh bone. Burial 2 was laid to rest in his Union army coat - its four eagle-imprinted buttons were found with him. He had been hit at least three times.

The severed limbs, from battlefield amputations, were carefully arranged next to them. The Park Service has said it is still deciding what to do with the limbs.

The agency revealed the details of the find in June, saying it was a one of a kind discovery.

The bones were taken to the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History for study, and the skeletons were later turned over to the Army, which operates the cemetery.

The Second Battle of Bull Run was at that point the largest battle in the Western Hemisphere, the Park Service has said, involving almost 125,000 combatants.

It was fought Aug. 28 through Aug. 30, 1862, over much of the same ground as the First Battle of Bull Run a year before.

Roughly 1,700 Union soldiers and 1,200 Confederates were killed and a combined total of more than 14,000 were wounded.
JERUSALEM - Israel's Arab leaders filed a petition to the high court Tuesday against a controversial new "nation-state" law, adding to a deluge of opposition to the bill that critics brand an undemocratic betrayal of minority communities.

The petition argued that by declaring Israel as the nation state of the Jewish people alone, the law excludes the rights of its Arab citizens, who make up around 20 percent of the population.

The law, which the petition described as "racist, colonialist and illegitimate," was passed by Israel's parliament late last month. It emphasizes the Jewish nature of the state, promotes specifically Jewish settlement and elevates the status of Hebrew over Arabic.

Members of Israel's nearly 150,000-strong Druze community and representatives of Israel's Bedouins, both minorities known for their loyal service in Israel's military, have already lodged legal petitions to the court.

Over the weekend, Druze leaders led a protest that drew tens of thousands to Tel Aviv's Rabin Square, where a former head of the Mossad, a former Israel Defense Forces chief and the mayor of Tel Aviv were among those to speak out in opposition to the law.

So far, at least two Druze military officers have quit the army, while an Arab lawmaker who said that the bill "oppresses me and oppresses the population that sent me to the Knesset" resigned from parliament. Vocal opposition has also come from the international community and Jewish groups abroad.

The wave of criticism piles pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is already beset by corruption allegations. But the Israeli leader has remained unwavering in the face of the outpouring of opposition, arguing that the law is necessary for future generations and that the protection of minorities is enshrined in other legislation.

Israel's declaration of independence in 1948 established it as a Jewish state but also stipulated equal rights for its minorities. Israeli political leaders, however, argued that the Jewish nature of the state needed to be enshrined in the Basic Laws, Israel's de facto constitution.

One of the main criticisms by the legislation's opponents is that it fails to mention the rights of minorities.

"It is no accident that this law doesn't mention the word 'equality' once," said Ayman Odeh, an Arab lawmaker who heads the Joint List, the Arab bloc in the Knesset, which backed the petition. "For Netanyahu, we are second-class citizens, not equal members in a democracy that works for the benefit of all its citizens."

Other than now in Israel, "there is no constitution in the world today containing a clause that determines that the state belongs to one ethnic group or that a given state is exclusive to a certain ethnic group," said Tuesday's petition, which was submitted by the Israeli human rights group Adalah and also signed by the High Follow-Up Committee for Arab Citizens of Israel and the National Committee of Arab Mayors.

The petition called on the Israeli Supreme Court to annul the law, arguing that it also violates the United Nations charter by denying the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination. The law states that "the right to exercise national self-determination in the State of Israel is unique to the Jewish people."

The petition also noted that Article 7 of the law, which describes Jewish settlement building as a "national value," encourages discrimination by the state in the allocation of land, housing, budgets and zoning.

Israeli Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked, who has been pushing to curb the powers of Israel's Supreme Court, has said that if the high court strikes the law down, the result would be an "earthquake" that would begin "a war between branches of government."

Proponents of the law, including Israeli Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan, have said that those attacking it have an anti-government agenda. They charge that opponents seek to stir division in the country and argue nothing in the law hurts the Druze community.

The Druze, unlike most Arab Israelis, are subject to mandatory national service in Israel. The law has stirred calls for that to end.

"This morning when I woke up to return to my base, I asked myself why? Why do I need to serve the state?" Capt. Amir Jamal, one of the Druze officers who resigned, said in an open letter to Netanyahu on his Facebook page Sunday that has now been removed, the Jerusalem Post reported.

"This country that I, along with my two brothers, and my father, served with dedication, purpose and love of our homeland - in the end, what do we get, we are second-class citizens," he wrote.

"After a lot of thought, I decided to leave the army and not continue serving the country, a country that has a government that takes and does not give back," he said.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. - The courtroom showdown between Paul Manafort and his former right-hand man Rick Gates grew painfully personal Tuesday as a defense lawyer forced Gates, the prosecution's star witness, to admit he had a transatlantic extramarital affair and embezzled money to live beyond his means.

During his second day on the witness stand, Gates detailed the lies, phony documents and fake profits he claims to have engineered at Manafort's direction. Manafort, seated at the defense table, stared intently at his former protege and business partner, who has assiduously avoided Manafort's gaze despite their proximity inside the federal courthouse in Alexandria, Virginia.

Gates' testimony is central to prosecutors' case as they seek to prove that Manafort, President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman, committed bank fraud and tax crimes. Gates has testified that most of his crimes were committed on behalf of his former boss, while others were self-serving. He pleaded guilty in February as part of a deal with special counsel Robert Mueller III.

As the first trial to emerge from the special counsel's investigation, the Manafort case is a critical public test of Mueller's work. His team of prosecutors and agents continue to probe Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and whether any Trump associates conspired with those efforts.

The most jarring testimony Tuesday came when Manafort's lawyer Kevin Downing questioned Gates.

"There was another Richard Gates, isn't that right? A secret Richard Gates?" Downing asked.

The witness, who seemed to immediately understand the lawyer's hint, began speaking in a quiet, strained voice, saying that about 10 years ago, he had "another relationship" - an extramarital affair.

Asked if that affair had taken place in London, Gates said it had occurred there and other places. For about two months, Gates said, he kept a separate apartment in London and admitted he had flown first class and stayed in luxury hotels as part of that relationship.

Gates also admitted he embezzled from Manafort. When Downing asked if he stole as much as $3 million, Gates replied that he thought the figure was lower, but agreed that he had taken money from Manafort without his permission.

Earlier in his testimony, Gates said he embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars while working for Manafort.

Many of Downing's questions sought to buttress Manafort's central defense strategy - that Gates, not Manafort, is the real villain, a man who told so many lies and stole so much money he could not remember all of his illegal activity.

In one of the most heated exchanges, Gates compared himself favorably to Manafort, suggesting he had chosen a better path by cooperating with the FBI.

"After all the lies you've told and fraud you've committed, you expect this jury to believe you?" Downing asked.

"Yes," Gates responded flatly.

"I'm here to tell the truth," Gates said. "Mr. Manafort had the same path," he said, adding later: "I'm trying to change."

At other moments, Gates seemed reluctant to admit the extent of his wrongdoing.

When Gates called a payment an "an unauthorized transaction," Downing asked him, "Why can't you say embezzlement?"

Gates replied: "It was embezzlement from Mr. Manafort."

U.S. District Court T.S. Ellis III, as he has repeatedly through the trial, interjected during Gates' cross-examination.

When Gates said that Manafort "was very good at knowing where the money was and where it was going," Ellis remarked, "He didn't know about the money you were stealing, so he didn't do it that closely."

Downing presented Gates with a document showing money transfers conducted between 2010 and 2014, some of them large dollar amounts out of Cypriot accounts where Manafort kept his money. Gates acknowledged the list included "unauthorized transfers," but could not specify which ones.

At one point, Gates said the document lacked enough detail for him to offer better answers. But the line of questioning prompted him to say repeatedly that he did not recall the money transfers in question, transactions, Downing claimed, about which the special counsel had previously asked Gates. Downing said Gates' memory appeared much clearer when it was a prosecutor asking questions.

"Have they confronted you with so many lies you can't remember any of it?" Downing asked.

Downing accused Gates of swiping money from Manafort's firm to make trips to Las Vegas, to buy sound equipment and to shop at a Whole Foods grocery store in Richmond, Virginia, where Gates lives with his family. Gates said he did spend the firm's money on those things but that he did not believe it came from offshore accounts. The Las Vegas trips were for a movie production venture, he said, not for fun.

Gates said he wrote a letter falsely claiming his company would invest a large sum of money in a friend's movie project.

"I did it as a favor," Gates said.

"You committed fraud as a favor?" Downing asked skeptically.

"I did; I admitted to that," Gates responded.

At another point, Gates conceded he might have swindled the Trump inaugural committee as well. When Downing asked if he submitted personal expenses for reimbursement, Gates replied, "It's possible."

Downing moved quickly from one topic to the next, and at times the witness seemed confused as to which fraudulent activity they were discussing.

The strategy worked at least once, when Gates contradicted himself within a matter of minutes. Asked about a series of wire transfers, Gates testified that he submitted a false invoice for "professional services" to an offshore bank to initiate a transfer of $65,000 from the Manafort-controlled Global Endeavor Inc. to a different company, and from there into Gates' account.

In another instance, Gates submitted a false invoice to cause Global Endeavor to transfer $125,000 into a different company Gates controlled.

Gates tripped up as he explained the reason for these transfers, repeatedly agreeing that some of the money was unauthorized but also saying the transfers were reimbursements for business expenses while some were bonuses from Manafort.

Downing asked why Gates would call these transfers reimbursements.

"I was, in essence, living beyond my means," Gates replied.

Gates, worked for Manafort for more than a decade before the pair were indicted last year on bank fraud and tax charges. In February, Gates decided to plead guilty to lying to the FBI and conspiring against the United States. Under sentencing guidelines, he could get roughly five to six years in prison for those crimes, but he said he hopes his cooperation with the government will result in less time behind bars.

At the judge's instruction, the trial has largely stayed away from mentioning the Trump campaign or Russian interference in the 2016 election, but prosecutor Greg Andres asked Gates a series of questions about what happened after the election, when Gates went to work for Trump's inauguration committee.

Andres showed Gates emails from Manafort requesting Gates use his position in the Trump campaign to offer favors to Stephen Calk, the founder and CEO of Federal Savings Bank, one of the banks that extended Manafort a loan in 2016. Those loans are a key issue in the trial because Gates has testified that he helped engineer false statements inflating Manafort's income to qualify for the loans.

First, Calk's name was added to a list of national economic advisers to the campaign. Then, in November 2016, Manafort wrote Gates: "We need to discuss Steven Calk for Sec[retary] of the Army. I hear the list is being considered this weekend," indicating that he wanted Gates' help getting Calk considered for the job.

Manafort, in a December 2016 email marked "urgent," sent Gates a list of people he wanted invited to the inauguration. The list included Calk and Calk's son.

Earlier Tuesday, Andres walked Gates through evidence of what prosecutors say were years of lies designed to hide much of Manafort's money from the IRS - and then, when his money ran out, lies to banks to obtain loans to pay for his lavish lifestyle.

Prosecutors offered emails and other documents aimed at supporting Gates' claims that Manafort was intimately involved with the fraudulent schemes.

One email showed that when shown what he might have to pay in taxes, Manafort wrote, "WTF," a profane acronym expressing indignation.

To lower Manafort's tax bill, Gates testified, they lied and claimed $900,000 in income he had received was actually a loan.

Gates testified that Manafort personally falsified a 2016 company profit statement to get a loan. The original statement had shown the firm lost over $600,000 that year - during a time when Manafort took the job of Trump's campaign chairman with no salary. The statement Manafort sent back claimed the firm showed a profit of about $3 million, Gates testified.

In his testimony, Gates has admitted to repeatedly telling lies and submitting false documents, but insisted he was following his boss' instruction.

Earlier that year, Gates said he doctored a 2015 profit statement after an unsuccessful attempt to get Manafort's bookkeeper to do it for him. Gates eventually went around the bookkeeper to get a copy of the correct document, which he then edited, adding $6 million in fictional income to make the company look more profitable.

"Was it accurate?" Andres asked.

"It was not," Gates replied.

"Was it false?" Andres continued.

"Yes," Gates said.

Gates is expected to return to the witness stand Wednesday.

---

The Washington Post's Justin Jouvenal contributed to this report.
For 18 years, the International Space Station, the orbiting zenith of global scientific cooperation, has hosted a continuous human presence and thousands of science experiments in its microgravity environment. But the $100 billion laboratory won't last forever and President Donald Trump's proposal to withdraw federal funding in 2025 has jolted a discussion about its future.

The idea of ending the U.S. taxpayer's role-the station costs more than $3 billion annually in a partnership with Russia, Europe, Canada and Japan-has stirred congressional opposition. It also raises a perplexing question: Who might run the place if the U.S. government doesn't?

The Trump administration is betting on private enterprise to take over, freeing up billions to spend on a Lunar Orbital Platform-Gateway, a planned outpost designed to return U.S. astronauts to the moon in the 2020s and to Mars the following decade.

"I do believe there's an opportunity for a commercial consortium to manage it and I believe that if we can make that transition then the money that we're currently spending on the ISS can go toward the Gateway and get us to the surface of the moon," NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine said last month in an interview with Bloomberg News.

In his budget request, Trump also sought $150 million from Congress to promote new commercial developments in space. This plan has an array of doubters, who don't see low earth orbit as commercially viable by 2025.

NASA's Inspector General, Paul Martin, is one such skeptic. "We question whether a sufficient business case exists under which private companies will be able to develop a self-sustaining and profit-making business independent of significant federal funding within the next six years," Martin wrote in a July 30 report about the station's management, reiterating comments he made before Congress in May.

NASA will confront "significant challenges" in trying to get companies interested in taking over an "extremely costly and complex enterprise," especially as it creeps toward its planned retirement in 2028, the Inspector General said.

Bridenstine rebutted the naysayers. "That's seven years [away], and there's a lot of time for development between now and then," he said.

Trump's proposal has also catalyzed conversations in Washington about when the platform should be shut down. In 2014, Congress voted to extend ISS operations until September 2024, giving the lab an additional four years beyond its initial closing date.

For Trump and Bridenstine, the issue is money-every dollar the ISS gets after 2024 is a dollar that NASA won't have for its Martian ambitions, absent dramatic new funds from Congress.

Yet the space station remains critical for NASA's eventual missions to Mars, hosting research into the human health risks and technology needed for future deep space exploration missions. The agency has conceded that it won't finish all of its planned research by the end of 2024.

Some lawmakers are angling for another extension given that the station's primary contractor, Boeing Co., has certified the platform as operationally sound until at least 2028. On July 26, three Senators-Texas Republican Ted Cruz and Democrats Ed Markey of Massachusetts and Bill Nelson of Florida-introduced a bill to keep the ISS operating until 2030.

"It would be foolish to waste that investment, to cut it short, to invent an arbitrary deadline like 2025 and say, 'Never mind that we had additional good, productive use out of it,'" Cruz said this summer at a hearing he convened on the station's future.

International partners contribute 23 percent of the ISS's annual operating cost. Of that, operations and maintenance total about $1.1 billion. Boeing, for its part, says it has shaved 30 percent off the operations bill since 2008. The company has a $1.2 billion contract for ISS work through September 2020.

"You can save $100 million here or $100 million there but it's not dramatic," said Michael Suffredini, a former NASA engineer who managed the space station for 13 years. "It's the transportation cost" to and from the ISS that accounts for most of its expense.

One of the critical unanswered questions is among those NASA itself posed in a March 2018 report about how to "transition" the space station to a commercial future: Will industry be able to create "self-sustaining business cases" to operate in low-earth orbit?

Probably not.

"We don't lack capacity for commercial opportunities with the ISS, but the likelihood that those opportunities can fund the entire ISS by 2025 is very low," Jim Chilton, senior vice president of Boeing's space and launch division, testified in June at a Senate subcommittee hearing on the ISS.

If a company were to step forward and assume the role of ISS landlord, Boeing would be among the leading contenders given its long history and intimate knowledge of the space station. "We continue to look at all the options and what makes sense" given NASA's plans to transition the ISS to a commercial future, Boeing spokesman Steven Siceloff said. "We're also working on the utilization side of the ISS to understand and foster the commercial market."

Even if NASA found a commercial partner, a robust financial infusion from the government would almost certainly be required to make the station viable. "And if you have that [guarantee] how do you not eliminate and elbow out private investments" in other projects aimed at creating a truly commercial space market, asked Jeff Manber, chief executive of NanoRacks LLC, which offers hardware and services for conducting research aboard the space station.

"They need to make sure they set criteria in place so this subsidized entity does not end up being able to take business away from the truly commercial guys in the future," said Suffredini, founder and CEO of Axiom Space, which wants to be one of those guys with its plans for a private space station and luxury resort.

The space station is already a unique research-and-development environment for a variety of companies.

A Massachusetts-based biotech startup called Angiex Inc. plans to begin researching its vascular-targeted cancer therapy on the ISS this summer. Delta Faucet Co. plans to start testing water flows and droplet formation in microgravity this November aboard the space station with the hope of reducing water consumption while still providing a satisfying shower. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., Procter & Gamble Co., and Merck & Co., have all used the station for research, including Merck's use of microgravity last year to investigate new manufacturing techniques for its cancer drug Keytruda.

Such companies need stability and a firm time frame before they're ready to commit to using the station for research, Cynthia Bouthot, director of commercial innovation and sponsored programs for CASIS, which runs the laboratory, said at the June hearing. "They're not looking at a one-shot deal, they're looking at a research roadmap, especially when we're talking about our pharmaceutical companies that are doing work," she said.

Regardless of the space station's eventual fate, those at NASA, Congress and private industry are in near-unanimous agreement that the United States needs a continued research platform in low-earth orbit. Says Suffredini: "We don't want to lose ISS before there's a replacement available of some sort, commercial or otherwise."

--With assistance from Bloomberg's Eric Roston .
BAD AXE  A Harbor Beach man will serve at least six years in prison, a judge ordered Monday, for stabbing another man in the head with a knife.

To have that much force to drive that knife into someones head  this defendant is lucky hes not sitting here on a homicide charge, Huron County Prosecutor Timothy J. Rutkowski said of Randy C. Haywards case.

The 25-year-old, in May, pleaded no contest to one count of assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder.

The lone charge stems from an incident on Oct. 14, 2017, where Hayward stabbed another man in the head/face area around 2 a.m. near a residence in the 100 block of North Second Street in Harbor Beach.

The victim called 911 and was able to walk to Harbor Beach Community Hospital  with the knife still in his head  for treatment. The victim was transferred to an out-of-area hospital and the knife was removed from his head during surgery.

On Monday, defense attorney Elizabeth Weisenbach told the court a majority of her cases have a theme, and the theme in this case was a love triangle gone bad.

Weisenbach said a woman was "playing" the victim and her client, meaning the woman stayed with the victim for a number of years, but started seeing Hayward later on, all the while sleeping with the victim.

These two guys, if they wouldve met any other day, theyd be friends, Weisenbach explained. It is by the grace of God where he struck  it couldve been worse.

During his opportunity to speak, Hayward offered an explanation.

This case doesnt describe me as a person. Its just something I got pulled in to, he told Huron County Circuit Judge Gerald M. Prill. (The girlfriend) played both of us. Id never met (the victim) before that night.

Hayward continued with his apologies.

To him (the victim), I truly am sorry from the bottom of my heart, an emotional Hayward said. I wish no bad on anybody."

Hayward said he found God in his life since being in jail, and he has plans of becoming a welder once released.

Prill said this case was one of the highest ranked cases hes dealt with when it came to the level of violence.

The photographs (of the stabbing) are absolutely appalling, Prill said. How (the victim) is alive is beyond me.

Hayward was sentenced to six years  maximum 20 years  in the states prison system, with credit for 296 days served. He was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $22,949.
The tired and poor masses crossing the border illegally do a lot of huddling after coming to America. It's the air conditioning.

So notoriously cold are the U.S. Border Patrol's detention cells that those heading north are warned the first stop will be a hielera, or "icebox."

The shivering stay is a rite of passage, and at the busiest border stations, the floors and benches are crowded with detainees bundled in silver polyethylene sheets, the only blankets made available. Their shifting bodies produce a constant crinkling, like the sound of Christmas gifts being unwrapped for hours on end.

CONTROVERSY: Nonprofit seeks to open migrant children shelter in Houston

A fight for control of the temperature inside these facilities is the subject of litigation between the U.S. government and immigration advocacy groups who accuse the Border Patrol of using the thermostat as a tool to deter migration and gain leverage over those in custody.

While these accusations stretch back years, the uproar triggered by the Trump administration's "zero-tolerance" family separation policy has brought new claims of hypothermic misery.

"They do it as a form of punishment," said Peter Schey, one of the lead attorneys in the ongoing class-action suit known as the Flores settlement, which dates to the late 1990s and sets detention standards for migrant children in federal custody.

Last month, Schey and others submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Californiatestimonies and sworn statements from more than 200 detainees about their treatment in U.S. custody. Complaints about the cold come up again and again.

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"It was hard to keep warm," one Honduran mother, identified only as Maria A, said in a sworn statement. "When other people would leave there would be extra blankets so we would try to take them to have more to keep warm but the guards would notice we had more blankets and they would take them from us so we only had one," her statement says. Maria's 4-year-old son had become "very sick" because of the cold, it notes.

Customs and Border Protection officials vigorously dispute allegations of mistreatment. Many of the migrants in custody are from rural parts of Central America, they note, and simply not accustomed to air conditioning, or what some Border Patrol officials refer to as "refrigerated air." The agency says temperature settings are never used for punitive purposes and thermostats are checked regularly to ensure they are between 66 and 80 degrees, the range that CBP deemed reasonable under the terms of the Flores settlement.

But the stories of trembling detainees and harsh conditions prompted U.S. District Court Judge Dolly Gee, who oversees compliance with Flores, to order the appointment of a "special master" who will conduct independent oversight of detention facilities. Attorneys for the government request more time to investigate and rebut the claims, but the judge cited a need to get "realistic, unbiased reports of what's happening."

"This needs to happen sooner rather than later," said Gee, who rejected the Trump administration's request to allow the government to hold children longer than the 20-day limit established by the court.

Driving the air conditioning dispute is the fact that two distinct groups must share the detention facilities - migrants and Border Patrol agents - and they have very different needs.

In south Texas, where Border Patrol stations absorb the most illegal traffic, migrants often arrive with damp clothing after crossing the Rio Grande. Their long-sleeved shirts may be taken away because of concerns about suicide. Then they remain sedentary for hours or days on end, sitting and sleeping on heat-sapping concrete benches and floors, with little room to move.

Border Patrol agents, meanwhile, have jobs that require them to move in and out of the muggy heat, wearing uniforms and gear that may include body armor. Some are burly, and they are acclimatized to refrigerated air. They want the thermostat kept at a temperature that keeps them comfortable.

"Our folks wear long sleeves because they have to go through vegetation, or the desert, where they're out in the sun," said one CBP official, speaking on the condition of anonymity because the temperature dispute is a matter of ongoing litigation. "We have to make sure our folks can do their job."

"It doesn't mean we don't stop trying to make people as comfortable as possible in our custody," the official said.

Attorneys and immigrant advocates say the lower end of the government's temperature range is too extreme even for Americans whose homes and offices are climate-controlled.

"I know I would freeze in a room that was 68 degrees, and I would want more than a Mylar blanket on me," said Jennifer Podkul, policy director at KIND, one of the legal-aid organizations that advocates for migrant children.

Under the Flores settlement's terms, migrant children should remain in CBP custody for no longer than 72 hours, and the Border Patrol generally seeks to transfer all adults in its custody to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as quickly as possible. Complaints about temperature generally do not extend to ICE facilities, Podkul noted, because its detainees are given sweatshirts, blankets and beds.

CBP officials said they use disposable Mylar blankets, at a cost of 68 cents per unit, because the expense and logistical challenge of laundering fabric would be too great. The plastic is more hygienic, officials said, and agents are vigilant against blanket-sharing because of previous outbreaks of lice and scabies.

"They're not comfortable and cozy, but they do provide warmth," the CBP official said.

Stories of sleepless nights on concrete floors are repeated throughout migrants' testimonies in the Flores suit, and the CBP official acknowledged that mats are not always available for adults. "There are facilities that do have mats. There are others that do not," the official said. "At the larger facilities, there are mats for juveniles."

One Honduran mother, identified in court filings as Dilsia R., said she and her 12-year-old daughter were wet and muddy from crossing the Rio Grande when they were taken into custody June 25.

Dilsia testified that her daughter was taken to a separate room for juveniles. "I did not sleep at all that night, it was too cold," her statement says. "I sat there on the ground without any type of bed and shivered to the next day."

Schey, whose Center for Human Rights & Constitutional Law is the chief plaintiff for the Flores litigation, said that in the hundreds of detainee interviews, 9 in 10 complain about the cold. He believes something more sinister is going on than a culture clash over air conditioning.

"By keeping the temperatures as low as they do, it really increases the susceptibility of detained children and their parents to go along with whatever the CBP agent who interviews them wants," he said. Schey said migrants seeking asylum due to violence in Central America report being pressured to agree to voluntary deportation, and chilly temperatures leave them desperate to get out of their cells.

"It's a way to enforce submissiveness and discourage people from asserting rights they may have to prevent their [deportation]," Schey added. "It also encourages people to want to just leave and agree to be deported, because they have no idea how long they'll be kept in an 'icebox,' where their kid is shivering, sneezing and hasn't slept."

CBP officials dispute those claims. Last year, the agency designated a Flores juvenile coordinator to ensure compliance with the court agreement. While conducting unannounced inspections of detention facilities, the coordinator carries a thermometer and records the readings in his reports.

The inspector, Henry Moak, wrote in a June report provided to Gee that during his visits to eight detention facilities, he found only one instance of a temperature setting below the established range.

In most facilities Moak measured, the temperature ranged between 70 and 75 degrees. But in interviews with 38 detainees, many also told Moak they were cold, including one 4-year-old boy from Guatemala. Moak noted that the temperature in the cell was 76.4 degrees, but the boy's father told him they had not received a blanket or mat after four hours in custody.
NEW HAVEN  A city man was killed late Monday when his motorcycle and a car collided and he became lodged in the cars windshield for a time as the driver fled the scene, police said.

Mark Hoffler, 51, had no pulse when he was found blocks from the initial crash and emergency crews were unable to revive him, police said. Hoffler was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Police later located the light gray Mercury Sable involved in the fatal hit-and-run that occurred at about 10:37 p.m. Monday at Whalley and Central avenues.

Stanley Welch, of Stimson Road, said he went out to move his car Tuesday morning and saw a vehicle with extensive damage on Beaver Hill Lane.

I had saw on the news the description of this gray car with the windshield damage. So I went over there, and there was blood on the windshield, Welch said. My heart was pounding when I saw it. I said, This cant be right in front of my house.

Having never seen the car around the neighborhood, Welch said he assumed it was the car involved with the fatal hit-and-run. He then called 911 and waited until patrol cars arrived.

Richard Callahan, of Beaver Hill Lane, said he didnt notice the smashed vehicle until officers knocked on his door  neighbors usually park on that side of the street. He said he knew someone had died following an accident the night before , but didnt put it together at first that the car near his house could be the suspect vehicle.

The vehicle was moved to the police garage, where it will undergo a forensic work-up. Police said they have not yet found the driver and was not clear whether there were passengers in the car at the time of the crash.

At the point of impact, Hoffler was thrown into the air and landed on top of the cars hood, police said. Witnesses told police his head went through the windshield, and the car took off east on Whalley Avenue at a high rate of speed, according to the release.

When the car reached Fitch Street, the driver turned left to go north onto Fitch and the maneuver caused the victim to dislodge from the windshield and crash to the ground, police said. The car fled up Fitch Street.

The cars grille was found at the point of impact, Officer David Hartman said in the release. A check of the part number shows it was for a 2002 Mercury Sable.

The car was found less than a mile from the scene, with front-end damage and a substantial hole in the windshield.

Hardeep Bhangoo said when he was working at a nearby gas station Monday night, he saw a small crowd gathering at the intersection. He said he then went outside and heard people talking about a hit-and-run.

Before the police shooed him away, Bhangoo said he saw the motorcyclist lying still on the street.

The Mercury was exiting the parking lot adjacent to the intersection of Whalley and Central avenues when the crash happened, police said.

The NHPD Crash Investigation Unit was called out to the scene to take over the investigation.

Anyone who witnessed the crash, or who has information on the operator of the vehicle or potential passengers, is urged to call the Traffic Division at 203-946-6316. Calls may be made anonymously, police said.
 Everyone who helped make the 150th Huron Community Fair one for the ages.

 Bad Axe resident Joann Cove, who has dedicated 25 years of her life to working the admission gate at the Huron Community Fair.

 All of the young outdoorsman, who recently attended the Grindstone Port Hope Sportsmens Club free educational outdoor day.

 Ashley Puvalowski, 17, of Ubly, who was named the 2018 Huron County Bean Queen.

 Coy Hansen and Darcy Lipskey, who recently got engaged at this years Huron Community Fair.

 Larry Maurer, who was one of two recipients for this years Friends of the Fair.

 The Tuscola County Medical Care Facility, which recently celebrated its 60th anniversary.

 The Cass City Little League All-Stars, which recently won the Cass City 12U Tournament.

 The Zwemmer family, who was named the other recipient for this years Friends of the Fair.

 Liesl Eichler Clark, Hans Eichler and Ray Leppien, who were all recently appointed as new members to Agri-Valley Communications Board of Directors.

 The Michigan Water Warriors, who recently returned to the Upper Thumb. The organization works through Michigan Special Olympics, and while they have several goals, the main one is to raise money for Special Olympics.

 Jennifer Rogers, of Bad Axe, who recently won a $1,000 scholarship from the Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel.

 Local group Charlies Angels Quilting Group, which recently made their 1,000th quilt to donate to United Hospice Service of Marlette Regional Hospital.

 Ubly High School, which ranked as the top Class C school in multi-sport participation.

 McKenna Wolschleger, who was one of five college students from Dairy Farmers of America who received a Mideast Area scholarship for 2018.

 The annual Dillinger Ride, which raised $1,459 to support United Hospice Service of Marlette Regional Hospital and ABATE Region 7.
If you're traveling abroad this month, be careful what devices you bring across the U.S. border.

Customs and Border Protection searches of cellphones, laptops and other electronic devices have spiked dramatically over the past two years, and they're expected to rise in the August vacation season.

Privacy advocates worry that these searches, if conducted without a warrant or suspicion of wrongdoing, could expose people's financial information, location data and other intimate details to border agents who do not have a good reason or legal justification to see the data. And they've filed a bevy of lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of those searches.

"All of us who have crossed border are used to the idea that you've got to hand over your bag" so agents can search for contraband, said Adam Schwartz, a senior staff attorney at the Electronic Frontier Foundation. "But it shouldn't be about going through cells or laptops that contain many gigabytes of information of the most sensitive nature."

"We're packing more and more of our most sensitive data on to these devices," he told me. "Every year, when agents look into our devices, it's a bigger window into the soul, so to speak."

Authorities are allowed to search devices people carry across the U.S. border in much the same way they search luggage, and they don't need a warrant to do it. Device searches at the border climbed steadily for several years but jumped by 11,000 - nearly 60 percent - in the last months of the Obama administration and in President Donald Trump's first year in office. Border agents searched 30,200 devices in the 2017 fiscal year, up from 19,051 the year before, according to the most recent CBP statistics.

Border officials say devices are increasingly viewed as critical sources of information for national security threats, as my colleague Nick Miroff has reported. Agents search certain devices to check admissibility of some foreign visitors or screen for possible terrorist links, child pornography or other criminal activity.

But privacy advocates say increasing searches across the board violates people's Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures and are demanding that border agents get a warrant in such instances or at least show that a person is suspected of wrongdoing, for example, being on a terrorist watch list. They say innocent people have been searched illegally -- in one case, border agents demanded a NASA engineer's password and searched his phone without a warrant as he returned from a trip to Chile.

Privacy advocates cite two types of problematic searches when the person isn't suspected of a crime. One is a manual search in which a border agent opens a phone and goes through its contents as a normal user might. The other is a forensic search, in which agents use software to review all of a phone's data - including web browsing history, emails, contact lists and even precise location data.

"The government argues that the border is different. And the border may be different, but so are smartphones because they reveal all these important details," said Faiza Patel, director of the nonpartisan Brennan Center's Liberty and National Security Program.

And lawsuits challenging device searches are bubbling up through the federal court system. The EFF is representing a group of 10 American citizens and one lawful permanent resident whose smartphones and other electronic devices were searched without a warrant. They notched a key victory in May when a judge rejected the government's request to throw out the case. "Electronic device searches are, categorically, more intrusive than searches of one's person or effects," U.S. District Judge Denise Casper wrote in the ruling. "The ability to review travelers' cellphones allows officers to view 'nearly every aspect of their lives - from the mundane to the intimate.' "

Other similar cases are farther along. In the past year, three federal appeals courts have handed down diverging opinions in cases involving warrantless device searches at the border. That means the issue could be headed toward the Supreme Court in the near future.

"When these searches were isolated and fewer people were affected, the momentum really hadn't reached a peak," Patel told me. "Now it seems there is a good body of instances where these searches are undertaken, and they seem to be suspicionless and there doesn't seem to be a reason for CBP to be conducting them. . . . It creates an atmosphere where these cases will be moving forward."

As the number of searches has risen, so has the public outrage. "There is growing frustration by a growing number of people" who have had devices searched, Schwartz told me. "We get calls all the time from travelers who are very upset."
NEW HAVEN  Frustrated with being put on hold for long periods of time by personnel at the Department of Social Services Call Centers, more than 75 people were outside Friday morning waiting for the regional office to open for an update on their benefits.

They mostly had unresolved questions on SNAP (food stamp) benefits.

The line at 7:30 a.m. extended to the end of the building with little respite from the 90-degree temperatures as young and old, some with children in tow, waited for the office to open at 9 a.m. to get a shot at talking to a live person.

The latest data from DSS indicates that the average phone wait time was 96 to 107 minutes for the call centers  February through May  although many reported it was longer and in the end they still did not get the answers they were seeking.

Karla Arias of Ansonia nailed the third place in line by arriving at the Humphrey Street offices by 6 a.m.

She was looking to renew SNAP benefits for herself and her 11-month-old and had to show some paperwork. Arias knew she could get shut out if she didnt come early enough. She said getting answers on the phone can take up to three hours.

A man from New Haven said he had to come back a second time because they could not find the paperwork he had sent in. On the second visit, they were able to retrieve it.

If they were doing their job in the first place, I wouldnt have had to come back, he said.

Another individual said the DSS worker interviewing her for food stamp renewal hung up on her, necessitating her to come to the New Haven office to complete the form.

She said she was missing a days work at her temp job to resolve the issue.

The Call Centers, also known as the Benefits Center, were put in place in 2013 instead of the caseload approach, in which recipients were assigned an individual worker.

Almost three-dozen agencies and advocates wrote to DSS Commissioner Roderick Bremby at the end of June characterizing the wait times as wholly unacceptable.

Staying on hold for hours is not possible for people who have to get to work or for those with limited phone card capacity, Sheldon Toubman of New Haven Legal Aid Assistance said.

The Call Center is the point of entry for someone with a disability to request an accommodation and a wait time of nearly two hours is clearly a barrier to exercising rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the advocates wrote.

It is the ony point of access for conducting mandated interviewing for SNAP and some other benefits, they said in their letter.

DSS is the only place where the elderly and disabled can apply for HUSKY C, the Medicare Savings Program and MedConnect, according to advocates.

Bremley said the limitations on access noted by the advocates are incorrect.

All DSS clients can come into any of the DSS field offices in person. Applications are accepted by mail, in person and online  in fact we do not take applications over the phone through the Benefits Center, Bremley wrote. Upon receipt of a SNAP application or renewal form, the Department proactively calls those who need an interview.

He challenged them on widespread reports that the department has wrongfully terminated people who have done everything right.

Mory Hernandez, who works for the Bridgeport Child Advocacy Coalition, said in his experience it it nearly impossible to get service at the Bridgeport office after 11:30 a.m. with people told to come back the next day. He said this is hard on the disabled and those taking public transportation.

Shonda Moore, 38, was told her renewal for food stamps was fine only to be notified later that it had been cut off. She said this is what brought her to New Haven early Friday morning.

The advocates, in their letter, said the Call Centers are necessary to restoring benefits that were wrongfully terminated when the paperwork that had been sent in was not processed in time.

Audrey Brookes knows the problems from a personal perspective, as well as a professional one having worked in the health care industry for 27 years.

She said she has been trying to get her mother, 94, into a new nursing home for the past two weeks after she was knocked out of her wheelchair and fractured her neck at the facility in which she currently is staying,

Brookes said as far as she knew her mothers insurance had been renewed two months ago, but when she contacted a new facility to care for her mother, she was told the insurance had been rejected because the application lacked two bank statements.

Brookes said she got the statements and after three hours on the phone and offering to fax it over to DSS, was told she had to come into the office. She expected to be there all afternoon.

Brookes said she tried to upload the material, but that didnt work. I had three people help me and it didnt work. Nothing is working, she said.

It has been ridulous for years. If anything, it has gotten worse, Brookes said. She said the scanning center they have in Manchester is a joke.

Before the scanning center it was fine because you could call an individual worker, which got it right there, she said. After DSS switched to a new computer system in October, she said it has gotten 100 times worse.

Its sad. Why should young mothers be standing out here in this heat? Brookes said.

Bremley said they are not satisfied with long wait times, but he said much has been done in the past five years. He said more than 100,000 calls each month are resolved through its new Integrated Voice Response system.

He said these calls are not mentioned in the advocates letter. He said the department has also seen more than 262,000 MyAccounts created and more than 263,000 online applications filed.

mary.oleary@hearstmediact.com; 203-641-2577
Uh-oh! It could be you, or it could be us, but there's no page here.
COLLEGE STATION  Nearly 100 firefighters from across Texas, including from the San Antonio area, are heading to California to help battle raging wildfires.

The Texas A&M Forest Service on Tuesday announced personnel from more than two dozen fire departments are flying to California or taking part in a convoy with at least 25 fire engines. Texas firefighters are expected to report for duty Thursday.
Aside from the controversies over a plan for the Alamo Plaza area, preservation work is moving forward on the two remaining original structures at the Alamo site  the mission-era church and the Long Barrack.

The Texas General Land Office today is expected to announce a contract for the most extensive conservation in more than a century at the Alamo, with a focus on controlling the effects of moisture and other factors thought to be contributing to the deterioration of walls of the buildings.
Organizers of a petition to recall the Windcrest mayor and two council members say they expect the recalls to be on the November ballot, despite an Aug. 2 letter from the city attorney that said the petitions were not certified.

Windcrest residents John Gretz and Michael Eyhorn received the letter from city attorney Micheal Brenan, who said the petitions were not certified after the city received affidavits from numerous citizens denying that they signed the petitions.

As a result, those complainants names were removed from the petition, which left Gretz and his group short of the number of signatures needed to force the recall.

The state has an Aug. 20 deadline for submission of items to be placed on the November ballot. However, Gretz cited state law that says the city cant accept the affidavits from Windcrest residents who were upset that their signatures appeared on the petition without their knowledge.

Sec. 277.0022 of the state of Texas Election Code states, A signer may not withdraw the signature from a petition on or after the date the petition is received by the authority with whom it is required to be filed.

Gretzs group submitted their petitions with the city secretary on July 17. They were notified July 27 that the petitions were not certified due to canvassing errors. The group resubmitted the petitions on July 30 after correcting the errors outlined by the city secretary.

Upon resubmittal, the petitions contained 437 names and signatures for the recall of Mayor Dan Reese, 454 for the recall of Councilman Frank Archuleta, and 44 for Councilwoman Joan Pedrottis recall  all in excess of the 421 names needed by the petitioners to force a recall election.

The city, Brenan said, received 34 affidavits from people who denied they ever signed the petitions. When those 34  and the signatures of two deceased individuals whose names also appeared on the petitions  were removed, the petition drive fell short of the 421 names needed.

In conclusion, the petitions are not certified and no further action by the city in response to them may take place, Brenan wrote.

Gretz said John Carroll, an attorney working with the petitioners, disagrees and cited the states election code.

Once the petitions were submitted, affidavits cannot be accepted. Thats what state law says, Gretz said. Paragraph 1 of Mr. Brenans letter (which cites the signature totals upon resubmission) makes it a done deal. The people of Windcrest have spoken.

One person who has spoken out about Gretzs actions being egregious is Reese, who said the petition scandal is far from over.

Reese has labeled the signatures that appeared on the petitions without the persons consent as forgeries and expects more to be exposed. He said a group of Windcrest residents opposed to the petition drive has been canvassing the city, trying to validate who did sign, and who did not sign, the petitions.

The people who are trying to find out how many forgeries there are, they are continuing to look, the mayor said. Had these citizens not made the effort to go and find those forged signatures, wed be in the situation where the city attorney would have had to certify a petition with forged signatures.

There are people who may have had their signatures forged and may not even know it yet. So there may be the potential of even more signatures having been forged, he added.

There may be more developments on the law enforcement front as well, he said, mentioning the citys police department. Theres been law enforcement that has gotten into  deciding if there are more (forgeries), and I believe there are more.

He did not say whether the Texas Rangers and the Bexar County District Attorneys office have been contacted or become involved in the matter.

He said there is no doubt that this latest round of political fighting has tainted the city and further divided its people.

As far as the petitions are concerned, this process hurt all the citizens of Windcrest, even those who, in good conscience, signed the petition, Reese said. But the people who put the petition together  who were willing to taint the process by including forged signatures, as well as the names of deceased people  hurt the whole process.

But Reese and Gretz both said the process, most likely, is far from over.

jflinn@express-news.net
The San Antonio City Council will conduct a public hearing Aug. 8 to gather input on the proposed paid sick leave ordinance. An alliance of community groups gathered about 144,000 signatures seeking an ordinance mandating that employers in San Antonio provide paid sick leave to workers.

The public hearing is at 6 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 114 W. Commerce St.

City Clerk Leticia Vacek is expected to announce Thursday whether enough valid petition signatures were submitted.

Nonmembers welcome during High Holy Days

Temple Chai, a small Reform congregation thats a member of the Union of Reform Judaism, will open its Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur services next month during the High Holy Days to nonmembers.

Rosh Hashana, the Jewish new year, begins at sundown Sept. 9. Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is considered the holiest day on the Judaic calendar. It begins at sundown Sept. 18.

Evening and daytime services will be held not at the temple but at Embassy Suites San Antonio Landmark, 5615 Landmark Parkway.

The congregation is welcoming nonmembers free of charge, but space is limited. To register or for more information, go to templechaisa.org.

Rabbi David Komerofsky said via a spokeswoman that services will be open to nonaffiliated Jews, or those who arent members of a temple, as well as others who are interested in exploring the Jewish religion.

Museum design team sought

A six-member panel overseeing an Alamo master plan has put out a call for firms to design a museum and visitor center at the mission and battle site.

Requests for qualifications for an architect of record and architectural designer have been posted on the Texas comptrollers website as efforts continue to implement a master plan by 2024  300 years after the Mission San Antonio de Valero moved to its third and final site, where it became the fort known as the Alamo. A committee composed of officials with the city, Texas General Land Office and Alamo Endowment wants to hire creative teams with substantial experience in designing world-class museums and visitor centers, according to a news release.

The General Land Office and endowment have about three years to have a museum in the schematic phase of build out or construction under an agreement with musician Phil Collins, who donated his collection of artifacts to the Alamo.

South Side

Parenting classes on discipline start this month

Registration is now open for the parenting class series Positive Discipline Toolbox, which starts Aug. 15 and meets every Wednesday for eight weeks at Blessed Sacrament Academy, 1135 Mission Road.

The classes are designed for families with older children. Classes meet from 6 to 8 p.m. and include free dinner and child care for parents attending.

The program meets requirements for Child Protective Services. Call Kathy Lozano at 210-532-0894 to register.

Bowen Center announces new executive director

The board of directors for the Bowen Center for Neighborhood Advocacy recently appointed Anne Englert as the agencys executive director.

Englert, who was director of alumni relations at the University of Texas at San Antonio, will work to develop strong programs and raise funds through community engagement, according to a new release.

The board also elected Brenda Davila as its treasurer. Davila is a broker associate for Realty Concierges, Keller Williams City View.

Both women were chosen for their respective roles July 18.

The Bowen Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization offering support and training for San Antonio metro area neighborhood association leaders and members.

The Bowen Centers mission is to advocate for San Antonio neighborhoods by developing leadership. It will provide year-round programming and training for new and seasoned neighborhood leaders in the areas of understanding county and city services. Staff and board members will also focus on socio-economic issues, and the centers website will serve as a community resource. It is named after John Bowen, a Republic of Texas postmaster who later became the first postmaster of San Antonio.

The Bowen Center for Neighborhood Advocacy is dedicated to strengthening all neighborhoods in the city and county. Many talented neighborhood leaders care deeply about where they live and this great city, and the Bowen Center serves to bridge these leaders together to preserve our neighborhoods, Tommy Adkisson, chair and founder, said in a news release.

The Bowen Center hosted Neighborhood Day on June 9 for all neighborhood associations in San Antonio and Bexar County. This was the third year for such an event, with a goal of improving leadership and communication among neighborhoods and government agencies.

To learn more about the Bowen Center, call Anne Englert at 210-531-9491.

Compiled by Melissa Renteria
Jacob Beltran

Update: On Sept. 24, 2018, murder charges against Savawn Kyle were dismissed pending further investigation. It is unclear how that will affect this federal charge. This story will be updated as the case unfolds.

A San Antonio man who was awaiting trial is now facing federal charges after authorities allegedly caught him with guns while out on bond, court documents show.
A man was hospitalized in critical condition early Tuesday after he was shot while playing dice with a group of men on the East Side, police said.

The victim, a 28-year-old man, was playing dice around 3:50 a.m. near North New Braunfels Avenue and Hays Street when the suspect drove up in a sedan, stepped out and opened fire.
All of Washington is waiting with bated breath to find out whether the Mueller investigation will provide evidence proving that the Trump campaign colluded with Russia.

So far, Exhibit A against President Donald Trump is the meeting Donald Trump Jr., Jared Kushner and Paul Manafort had with a group of Russians claiming to have dirt on Hillary Clinton. That meeting should never have happened. When you get an email offering to provide very high level and sensitive information from the Crown prosecutor of Russia that could incriminate Hillary Clinton and is part of Russia and its governments support for Mr. Trump you dont reply by saying, I love it. You call the FBI.

The president claims he did not know about the meeting. His former lawyer, Michael Cohen, says he did. Whether he knew is beside the point. Senior officials of his campaign were willing to accept help from Vladimir Putin; they were saved only because the meeting was a bust. The Russians didnt end up providing any dirt.

But as bad as the Trump Tower meeting was, it took place at the request of the Russians. They were the ones who approached the Trump campaign, not the other way around.

By contrast, the Clinton campaign proactively sought dirt on Trump from Russian government sources. They did it through cutouts. In April 2016, Clinton campaign lawyer Marc Elias retained opposition research firm Fusion GPS to compile incriminating information on Trump. Fusion GPS in turn hired Christopher Steele, a former British MI6 operative with sources among Russian government officials. The result was the salacious dossier, whose sources included a senior Russian Foreign Ministry figure and a former top level intelligence officer still active in the Kremlin. Steeles work was paid for by Clintons presidential campaign and the Democratic National Committee. That means a paid agent of the Clinton campaign approached Russian officials for damaging material on Trump.

Clinton claims she did not know about Steeles work. It doesnt matter. Imagine if Michael Cohen, or another lawyer paid by the Trump campaign and Republican National Committee, had hired a former British spy with campaign money to collect dirt on Clinton from Russian intelligence and foreign ministry officials. Do you think that everyone in Washington would be saying: Theres no evidence Trump knew, so no big deal  nothing to see here? Of course not.

Moreover, Clinton officials have defended Steeles actions. Brian Fallon, Clintons campaign spokesman, has said he would have volunteered to go to Europe and try to help Steele and would happily have spread dirt obtained from the Russians.

In other words, I love it.

We also know that the Democrats covered up their involvement. The dossier was published by BuzzFeed in January 2017, but it was not until Oct. 24  more than nine months later  that Americans learned it was the DNC and the Clinton campaign that paid for it. If it did nothing wrong, why did Team Clinton leave Americans in the dark about its involvement for so long?

None of this excuses the Trump campaigns reprehensible behavior in accepting a meeting with Russians claiming to be government agents offering dirt on Clinton. If Mueller finds that anyone on the Trump campaign entered into a criminal conspiracy with Russia, they should go to jail.

Furthermore, none of this calls into question the intelligence communitys assessment that the Russians wanted Trump to win  something Putin publicly confirmed in his Helsinki news conference with Trump. But the intelligence community assessment also found that the Kremlin expected Clinton to win. The Russians are not stupid. They were preparing for the prospect of a Clinton presidency, and they played both sides. Thats why millions of dollars in Russian cash were sloshing around Clinton World.

Russia continues to pose a threat. Their goal, according to our intelligence community, was not just to help Trump but also to undermine public faith in the U.S. democratic process. They are playing a long game. If we are to counter the Russian threat, we need to understand its complexities  and that mean we have to look beyond Trump.
The price of a college education is not getting any cheaper, and its concerning that some regulations intended to keep down those costs arent working.

Many Texas students are finding that courses they have taken at community colleges are not recognized in their field of study when they transfer to four-year universities within the state. That lack of transferability carries a steep financial impact because they then have to retake a course requirement they thought they had fulfilled. This delays graduation and often increases their student debt.

The transfer problem facing thousands of students each year surfaced unexpectedly at a Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board meeting in Austin recently. The issue came up during the recognition of Alamo Colleges and other community colleges officials for their efforts creating transfer guides to facilitate their students moves to four-year universities.

Higher Education Commissioner Raymund Paredes and board members were surprised to learn from Angela Guadian-Mendez, director of student completion for the Alamo Colleges, that the likelihood that a university would accept all the hours in a field of study taken at a community college were slim to none.

Paredes said he was startled and troubled. We have laws in the state that are supposed to govern what institutions do about fields of study. Those laws have to be honored until theyre changed, he said.

Core curriculum and field-of-study regulations are supposed to align community college courses with four-year universities. Accepting transfer hours only as electives does not help students earn their degrees any faster and sometimes contributes to students dropping out. It also hinders the 60x30TX state education goals of 60 percent of Texans ages 25 to 34 having earned a certificate or degree by 2030.

The state is also working hard to keep down student debt, and one of the primary goals of that effort is to reduce the excess semester credit hours a student accumulates on the path to a degree. Making transfer students retake classes is counterproductive in this regard.

Most recent state data available indicates that bachelor degree graduates in 2017 who transferred paid an estimated $45 million in tuition and fees due to excess hours. Overall, 47.2 percent of students earning bachelor degrees in 2017 had some student debt.

Higher education is challenging enough without more roadblocks. As a state, we are concentrating on getting more students to enroll in college straight from high school. In 2017, that figure was at 52.3 percent. For many students, their first college experience is on a community college campus, and their pathway to a degree will require a transfer to a four-year university.

Transfers from community colleges will play a vital role in helping the state reach its lofty 2030 goals in higher education.

College graduation rates are increasing, but statewide, the six-year college graduation rate is only 61 percent. Thats much better than in 2000 when it was 49 percent, but there is much room for improvement.

If Texas is going to gain a competitive edge in a global economy, it has to do a better job of ensuring that students who begin their college careers at a two-year community college are not at a major disadvantage when they transfer.

To do otherwise is not fair to the students, the faculty teaching the classes and the taxpayers who underwrite an increasingly larger portion of community college costs.

Field-of-study credits are, by law, supposed to be transferable. They dont appear be. The Legislature needs to determine why.
Republican attorney general candidate Sue Hatfield isnt sweating a withdrawn endorsement from the Connecticut Citizens Defense League, a second-amendment advocacy group, after she publicly came out against 3-D printed guns.

I will continue to work with second amendment organizations to gain their input, Hatfield said Tuesday. I appreciate the opinions that dont share my same beliefs, but together thats how we move forward.

The CCDL said, despite the withdrawn endorsement, its leadership still believes Hatfield would make a far better Attorney General than any of the other candidates in the race.

In light of the comments made ... candidate for Attorney General Sue Hatfield has shown what must be considered as wavering support for the 2nd Amendment, said a statement issued by the organization. We simply cannot endorse the recent comments shes made.

Hatfield, who has taken a leave of absence from her job a state prosecutor to run for attorney general, said she is concerned about the lack of serial numbers on the plastic printed weapons.

It comes from my law enforcement background as a prosecutor, Hatfield said. My husband is a retired state trooper, still a law enforcement officer. Some of the concerns I have, some of those pieces can be removed and undetected through a metal detector and dont have serial numbers. As a prosecutor I know how valuable serial numbers are to prosecuting a case. I have gone forward with cases involving firearms to get them out of the hands of criminals. I am very pro-second amendment but thats my position.

Hatfield specified her beliefs apply only to 3-D printed guns. She declined to comment on ghost guns  uncompleted guns with assembly required which also lack serial numbers.

kkrasselt@hearstmediact.com; 203-842-2563; @kaitlynkrasselt
President Emmerson Mnangagwas condemnation of the recent killing of protesters by the army and the disruption of a press conference at a Harare hotel a few days later has created a lot of confusion, which has left Zimbabweans wondering who really is calling the shots in government.

On Wednesday last week, the military was deployed into central Harare after protesters ran amok, destroying property and setting vehicles alight.

The soldiers fired live ammunition on protesters, resulting in deaths and injuries of civilians.

On Friday last week, police drove hordes of journalists from the venue of a press conference where MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa was scheduled to address the media. It took the intervention of acting minister of Information Simon Khaya Moyo for the police to disperse and allow the media briefing to proceed.

In both incidents, Mnangagwa appeared to have been in the dark, leading many to speculate the existence of a powerful force that could be giving orders without first seeking his approval.

University of Zimbabwe political science lecturer Eldred Masunungure described Mnangagwas situation as desperate, saying he was caught in between accommodating those who helped him ascend to the presidency in November last year and appeasing the international community.

Mnangagwa, aged 75, was catapulted to the top office by the military, which dethroned former president Robert Mugabe.

The man (Mnangagwa) is enduring pressure from various constituencies so it may not necessarily be a case of him being captured by the military but just managing them and trying to convince them that there is wisdom in reforming while at the same time he wants to be seen to be walking the talk by the western community whose support he is desperately in need of, said Masunungure.

What I see is a co-dependence between the military and Mnangagwa where the army element in Zanu PF needs the president for the political projects they would want to undertake while he in turn needs them for situations that require repression as happened last week.

Maxwell Saungweme, a political analyst, described the developments as an implosion within Zanu PF and government, which is evidently a clash between hardliners who want to use military approaches to deal with election fallout and those preferring diplomacy and civil approaches.

That dichotomy has been there since the day a cabinet with generals was formed. The generals in that cabinet do not really understand the workings of statecraft and all they know are hard iron and blood responses.

That also explains why Zanu PF (spokesperson) Simon Khaya Moyo  a career diplomat  had (to) put his head on the firing line, directly ordering the police to desist from barring Chamisas presser, said Saungweme.

Saungweme said there was growing evidence of lack of cohesiveness in government, with fissures emerging between militaristic hardliners and diplomatic politicians.

Vivid Gwede, another analyst, said Zimbabweans increasingly believe that Mnangagwa could be a lame duck president.

He said after toppling Mugabe about nine months ago, the military kingmakers now believe they have a stake in the new administration hence their overarching influence.

Media analyst Rashweat Mukundu opined that Zimbabwe was in a far deeper security crisis that is yet to be fully comprehended as no professional army behaves in the manner witnessed last week.

While it may be a show of strength, it equally tells us how jittery (they are). The coup needs curing through a broad-based national political discourse, he said.

Controversial playwright Cont Mhlanga believes Mnangagwa was firmly in control and that the confusion was part of his strategy whereby the president-elect will appear to be a Mr Nice Guy, with the hardliners doing the dirty work.

These guys are just trying to build an academic scenario because remember we have one of the most intelligent armies that has generals with deep pockets and well educated, said Mhlanga.

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Were going to fight this, Tendai Biti said grimly after the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) announced a landslide victory for the ruling Zanu PF in last Mondays elections.

The fascists are trying to steal this election, but we wont accept it, said the veteran opposition leader, who is one of the co-leaders of the seven-party Movement for Democratic Change Alliance (MDC Alliance) coalition which contested the presidential and parliamentary poll.

Our data shows we have won by 61 percent; Nelson Chamisa has won 61 percent of the votes.

If you win by this much in the presidential elections  for instance in Masvingo (province) where Chamisa won overwhelmingly but hardly won any parliamentary seats  something is wrong.

People dont vote for a presidential candidate of one party and not for the MPs of that party. So its called cheating.

A few days before the election, Biti had vowed to make Zimbabwe ungovernable if the MDC Alliance lost.

After Zec announced the alliances overwhelming (official) defeat in the parliamentary poll, Daily Maverick asked him what his partys next move would be and whether and how it was going to make the country ungovernable.

You cant ask me. The people are already making the country ungovernable.

The people are already on the streets. They are marching spontaneously, without organisation.

There are spontaneous riots. There is chaos in the town centre. Huge crowds are marching to Zec, which pretends to be the electoral body.

And the police are on the warpath. They are fighting the people.

The fight is just beginning. It will get worse.

Referring to gunshots heard in downtown Harare, Biti said they were the work of the crazy illegal junta led by Chiwenga, a reference to Constantino Chiwenga, who as chief of staff of the Zimbabwe Defence Force forced president Robert Mugabe out of power in November 2017 and was then appointed vice president.

Mnangagwa is believed to be desperate to win international approval of last weeks elections so he can tap the International Monetary Fund and other sources for the large infusion of capital he needs to salvage Zimbabwes crippled economy.

But Biti said that the international community is not going to be fooled by this madness. We will make sure they dont get a cent.

I cant tell you how but I can tell you we have done it before, said Biti, who was Finance minister in the MDC-Zanu PF unity government between 2009 and 2013.

Biti based his assessment that the international community would not be fooled by the election partly on the conclusion of the European Unions election missions preliminary report that a truly level playing field was not achieved in these elections.

The mission leader, Elmar Brok, cited several reasons for this assessment, including the clear bias of the State media in favour of Zanu PF, that partys abuse of State resources and instances of intimidation of voters.

But, as with other election missions, the EU will only comment later on the vote counting.

Biti insisted the elections had been simply rigged, utterly rejecting the opinion of some political analysts that the MDC-Alliance had made some costly mistakes.

Perhaps worse, these analysts contend, was that the MDC opposition failed to present a united front in the elections.

It is true that seven parties did, in fact, join forces and unite behind one presidential candidate.

Biti, who was secretary-general in the original MDC under the late Morgan Tsvangirai, later fell out with Tsvangirai and formed his own party.

But he and another disaffected former Tsvangirai ally, Welshman Ncube, were able to overcome their differences to fight Zanu PF.

But not all. After Tsvangirais untimely death earlier in 2018, a vicious fight erupted in his party over who would succeed him.

Chamisa won but his main rival Thokozani Khupe broke away to form her own party and to contest both the parliamentary and presidential elections.

However Khupes faction failed to get a single parliamentary or even council in the just ended harmonised elections.

Biti insisted this had made no difference.

No!, he said.

Our colleagues got nothing, Look at the results. Thokozani got one vote in some constituencies It was a binary, black and white contest between the MDC-Alliance and Zanu PF.

Strong independent candidates also lost badly, he said.

This was binary. It didnt matter who you are, they voted for the MDC.

Biti even more contemptuously dismissed the assessment of some analysts that ousted Mugabes rather tentative and ambiguous endorsement of Chamisa on Sunday last week cost the MDC Alliance credibility and votes.

The fact is this was just plain rigging, he reiterated time and time again.

Where was the proof of rigging?

We do have evidence of rigging from the V11 forms and we will issue a statement about this shortly, he said.

The V11 forms containing the results at each polling station were supposed to be posted outside each station by the Zec.

There have been widespread allegations about discrepancies in these forms, or about forms simply disappearing.

After announcing the parliamentary results on Wednesday, Zec chairperson Priscilla Chigumba said that her organisation would probably only be able to announce the presidential election results because representatives of all 23 presidential candidates would have to go to Zec headquarters in Harare to reconcile the V11 forms.

They rigged blatantly deliberately tampering and manipulating figures, said Biti, quoting Stalin as having said: Its not the people who vote that count, its the people who count the votes.

You can rig elections, but you cant rig legitimacy. You can rig elections, but you cant rig the economy, you cant rig trust and confidence. I dont know why the State never learns.

You cant rig the social contract, you cant rig decency, you cant rig trust.

He added that he believed the confrontation between the people and the authorities would get uglier and they will shoot some people.

As he was speaking, shots were heard ringing out across downtown Harare and reports were emerging that the security forces had used tear gas and even live ammunition against protesters.

So far, seven deaths have been confirmed.

Derek Matyszak, a Zimbabwe expert at the Institute for Security Studies in Pretoria, differed with Biti, suggesting, as other analysts have, that Zanu PF had already won before the first vote was cast.

The votes in the ballot box probably match those announced, he said.

So the opposition is taking to the streets in one of many violations of the Code of Conduct and giving grist to the Zanu PF mill.

To win the elections Chamisa had to look as if he was going to win and they did a good job of creating the impression of momentum so good that people in Harare and Bulawayo now do not believe the results

People are unable to accept that, despite all the depravity of Zanu PF, they (the people) have lost not only the battle of these elections, but the war which began in 2000.

Zanu PF has basically gotten away with it.

Those who think good always triumphs over evil have a hard time swallowing that.

Zanu (PF) has gotten away with destroying everything they have touched or come near agriculture, mining, infrastructure, the economy as a whole and peoples lives and livelihoods.

They have done so without any severe repercussion and grown fat on corruption in a liberal democracy they would have been voted out of power.

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BUSINESSMAN Wicknell Chivayo, who is facing allegations of defrauding the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) of over $5 million, was yesterday denied bail after the court ruled that he was a flight risk and should remain in custody.

Harare magistrate Mr Elisha Singano said if freed on bail, Chivayo was likely to abscond court considering that he was arrested at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport attempting to flee to South Africa.

Chivayo is being charged with fraud, money laundering and contravening sections of the Exchange Control Act.

He was remanded to Friday next week, and his trial will run between August 27 and 29.

The State said the charges arose after Chivayos company, Intratrek Zimbabwe, was corruptly awarded the Gwanda solar power plant tender by ZPC at the instigation of the then Minister of Energy and Power Development, Samuel Undenge.

It is alleged Chivayo failed to execute the project despite getting $5 607 814,24 from Government.

Mr Singano said to release Chivayo at this stage would undermine the proper administration of justice.

What is clear to the court is that after knowing that he was wanted by the police, at no time did accused person attempt to surrender himself at any police station, he said.

He had several chances to do so, yet he did not comply. We heard from the investigating officer that he (Chivayo) was pulled from a plane bound for South Africa and this shows he didnt want to attend trial and was fleeing from the jurisdiction.

Those who face charges must, therefore, answer to the charges than to flee. Accused person has been to every corner of the world, he has contacts and connections everywhere, and he is a global traveller. He has shown indications to flee, hence if granted bail, he will not come back to stand trial.

Mr Singano said Chivayo was facing a serious offence which involved public funds and that the State had a strong case against him.

A Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services officer escorts businessman Wicknell Chivayo into a prison van after he was denied bail at the Harare Magistrates Courts yesterday

A Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services officer escorts businessman Wicknell Chivayo into a prison van after he was denied bail at the Harare Magistrates Courts yesterday

The States case cannot be said to be weak as these are public funds which the accused must account for, he said. There is no doubt that fraud is a serious offence and once one is convicted, a long term of imprisonment is called for.

It is the courts view, taking into account the strength of the State case, likely penalty upon conviction, the seriousness of the offence and risk of abscondment, which is very high, that releasing the accused at this stage will undermine the proper function of the criminal justice system.

The State in its submissions, indicated that Undenge, who was recently convicted of a separate charge, would also be arrested and prosecuted in connection with Chivayos case.

The court heard that on October 23, 2015, ZPC acted on a misrepresentation and signed a contract with Chivayos company for implementation of the Gwanda solar project.

It is alleged that ZPC released $5 607 814,24 into an Intratrek bank account for the project to take off.

Chivayo is said to have converted the money to his personal use.

The court heard that he was also authorised by the RBZ to load $849 479 into his Visa cards for importation of earthmoving equipment from America, but nothing came into the country.

Mr Michael Reza, together with Mr Zivanai Macharaga and Ms Venranda Munyoro, both from the Special Presidential Anti-Corruption Unit, represented the State, while Advocates Lewis Uriri and Onias Takaindisa instructed by Manase and Manase legal practitioners appeared for Chivayo.

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United Kingdom legislator Katey Hoey has urged her government, the European Union (EU) and the United States government not to change its policies towards Zimbabwe until Retired General Constantino Chiwenga is removed from his Vice Presidency and his position as Defence Minister.

Speaking on Twitter, Hoey who is Member of Parliament for Vauxhall said:

There should be no change to @P_VanDamme_EU or @UKinZimbabwe or American government policies to Zimbabwe government until at the very minimum Chiwenga is removed from his Vice Presidency and his control of the military.

Hoey visited Zimbabwe between May 31 and June 4 this year. Her comments come after soldiers opened fire on unarmed civilians during an anti-Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) protest. Seven people died from the incident.

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Legit.ng has sighted some cute photos of a seller who hawks what is widely known as puff puff' and these images have caused a stir on social media with many people drooling over her beauty and her humility.

The photos showed the lady who is identified by her Facebook name, Nana Akua Amankwa, carrying the pastry in a container and took some pictures of herself.

She captioned the photos:Thank you Jesus, have started my business again. Please, it is my prayer that you help me and bring many buyers to seek for more. In Jesus Name. Amen.

The young lady who appeared very proud of her job did not mind flaunting her goods alongside her beauty on social media.

She is a professional caterer Photo Credit: Facebook/Nana Akua Amankwa

READ ALSO: How to make puff puff with pepper and onions

A look through her social media handle showed that she was a professional caterer who specializes in making pastries especially puff puff.

Nana Akua Amankwa flaunts her goods on social media. Photo Credit: Facebook/Nana Akua Amankwa

Nana Akua Amankwa has branded her business with the catchphrase, Toogb3 wura and she has attended a lot of programs as a food entrepreneur.

Many people including Nigerians who have seen the photos of Nana Akua Amankwa are full of praise for her over her hard work but many more have given credit to her over her beauty.

Nana Akua Amankwa attends programs a food entrepreneur Photo Credit: Facebook/Nana Akua Amankwa

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Not too long ago, Legit.ng reported the story of Barrister Oluguru, a female lawyer, who ditched the law practice just so she could concentrate on making creams.

According to the interview Legit.ng had with the beautiful woman, her father totally disagreed with the abrupt shift. But when he saw how hardworking she was towards what she claimed was her passion, he came to terms with it.

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She was seen in a video with several of her cream products colourfully displayed in her store.

Success Story of akara seller who makes a minimum of N10,000 daily | Faces of Nigeria | Legit.ng TV

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- The federal government says investigations are still ongoing on the allegation against finance minister, Kemi Adeosun

- Lai Mohammed says it is only with the outcome of the investigation that Muhammadu Buhari can act

- The minister argues that the president would be usurping the powers of the investigating agency if it acts now

Nigerias information and culture minister, Lai Mohammed, says President Muhammadu Buharis integrity remains intact, in spite of the allegation of certificate forgery against Kemi Adeosun.

Kemi Adeosun, the finance minister, is alleged to have forged her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) exemption letter.

Speaking on Monday, August 6, when he visited the Abuja office of The Authority Newspaper, Mohammed said the case was still under investigation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the minister said the appropriate agencies were still investigating the allegation against the finance minister and should be allowed to do their jobs.

READ ALSO: Saraki, governors' defection is to stop Buharis re-election - Senator Ndume

Until when an allegation is proven, you do not expect the president to act.

The appropriate agencies have spoken and they say they are investigating. The only thing we can do is to wait.

By saying that the minister should resign or be sacked while investigation is still ongoing may also not be feasible in our clime because of the level of false accusations.

How many times have they accused me of embezzlement? Even recently, they said my driver jumped out of the car, abandoned me and decamped to PDP.

People even made the allegation that President Buhari did not have certificate, the minister said.

He insisted that the president will be usurping the powers of the investigating agencies if he sacked Adeosun before their reports.

For instance, people have come to me that so and so TV and radio stations are spreading fake news and I should shut them down.

I told them that I do not have the power to do so; it is the responsibility of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), even though it is an agency under my watch.

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We are as concerned as you are; but having spent some time in government, you will see that a lot of lies are being peddled about us, he said as he gave assurance that the government would not sweep the matter under the carpet.

Legit.ng earlier reported that a former director general of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Maharazu Tsiga, declared that the agency could not have made the grave mistake of exempting Kemi Adeosun, Nigerias finance minister.

Nigeria Latest News: 2019 Presidency - 'Why Nigerians Must Vote For Atiku' | Legit.ng TV

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- 45-year-old woman, Hadijat Kabiru, has been arrested for allegedly faking her kidnap and that of her daughter

- Kabiru allegedly faked the kidnap so as to extort the sum of N15million from her husband

A 45-year-old woman, Hadijat Kabiru, has been arrested by the operatives of the Lagos state police command for allegedly faking her own kidnap and that of her daughter to defraud her 55-year-old husband, Muraino Kabiru.

Punch reports that Muraino said he received a call from the suspected kidnappers on August 2, 2018, that his wife, Hadijat, and 18-year-old daughter, Hamidat, had been kidnapped on their way to a psychiatric hospital in the Oshodi area of Lagos state.

The alleged kidnappers had demanded N15m for the release of the victims before Muraino reported the matter to police and they 'rescue' Kabiru and her daughter.

READ ALSO: We are all solidly behind President Buhari ahead of 2019 - Borno speaker Lawan

The Lagos state commissioner of police, Edgal Imohimi, said Hadijat confessed that she planned the kidnap to defraud her husband.

Imohimi said: On Thursday, August 8, 2018, around 3.30pm, one Alhaji Muraino Kabiru of Governors Road, Ikotun, reported at the Ikotun Police Station that his wife, Hadijat Kabiru, and his daughter, Hamidat, 18, who is of unsound mind, were kidnapped on their way to a psychiatric hospital in Oshodi, Lagos.

Hadijat Kabiru and other suspects. Photo source: Punch

He said the kidnappers demanded N15m for the hostages. Based on this, I directed the Anti-Kidnapping Squad to rescue the hostages and arrest the suspects.

Investigation revealed that the kidnappers were making their demands from the Ado-Odo Ota area of Ogun state. The operatives of the squad mobilised and the hostages were rescued.

Ahmed Kudus, 29, and Hadijat Rufai, 39, were arrested, while the rest of the suspects fled the scene. One of the hostages, Hadijat, confessed that she planned her kidnap with the suspects to defraud her husband.

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Legit.ng earlier reported that the speaker of Zamfara House of Assembly, Alhaji Sanusi Rikiji, said that 15 persons were kidnapped by unknown gunmen on Saturday, July 28, in Maradun local government area of the state.

Rikiji told newsmen in Gusau on Sunday, July 29, in Gusau that the security situation in the state called for serious review.

He recalled the ugly incidences recorded in the last two days in Zurmi local government area where bandits took over three districts comprising over 18 villages and towns.

Should Nigerians pick up arms to defend themselves against herdsmen? (Street Interview) on Legit.ng TV

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- Senators from the southeast allege that Senator Ndume is spearheading the EFCC investigation against Ike Ekweremadu in order to unseat the Senate leadership

- The group faults the lawmaker for allegedly suggesting that the anti-graft agency is treating the deputy Senate president with kid gloves

- NASS leadership to meet Tuesday, August 7

Senators from the southeast have accused Senator Ali Ndume, some other All Progressives Congress senators and cabals of being responsible for the travails the deputy Senate president, Ike Ekweremadu, is facing at the hands of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The southeast lawmakers in a statement on Monday, August 6, criticised Ndume for allegedly suggesting that the agency was treating Ekweremadu with kid gloves.

The group said such utterances was a clear indication that Ndume along with some APC senators and cabals, is spearheading the EFCC investigation against the deputy Senate president in order to to unseat the Senate leadership.

READ ALSO: Akpabios visit to Tinubu part of consultations - Source

The statement read in part: "We have closely watched events around the National Assembly, especially the ruthless attempts to emasculate the opposition and unseat the Senate leadership by all means possible.

We have also followed the ongoing investigation by the EFCC of the allegations levelled against the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu. Despite our doubts, we have maintained our calm, hoping that the law will take its natural cause to vindicate the innocent.

However, like every responsible and patriotic Nigerian, we have every reason to worry after reading the comments by Senator Ali Ndume, claiming that the EFCC is treating Ekweremadu with kid gloves. He canvassed Ekweremadus detention and indictment by the agency in spite of the obvious ill health of Senator Ekweremadu.

The southeast group also alleged that Ndumes latest comments indicates he played an active role in the July 24 blockade of the official residences of Saraki and Ekweremadu by security agencies in Abuja.

Indeed, reading Senator Ndumes comments clears every doubt that himself and some other All Progressives Congress senators and cabals are behind the ordeal of the Deputy Senate President and that this investigation has to do with the remorseless efforts to unseat the Senate leadership," the lawmakers said.

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The group warned that those instigating the EFCC against Senator Ekweremadu would be held responsible should anything happen to the senator.

However, Ndume has said he would respond to the allegations on Tuesday, August 7, when he speaks with journalists.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the National Assembly will meet on Tuesday, August 7, over the possible reconvening of the federal legislature to consider some national issues, Daily Trust reports.

The National Assembly leadership comprises both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Legit.ng gathered that the meeting, is slated for noon tomorrow, which would be followed by another meeting with the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) led by its chairman, Prof Mahmud Yakubu.

The leadership of the two chambers have come under intense pressure to reconvene the federal legislature over certain issues.

Nigeria News: Will Senators, Lawmakers Defection from APC Change Power in 2019? | on Legit.ng TV

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- Professor Wole Soyinka has advised Governor Samuel Ortom to remain resilient and unbowed despite the crisis facing his state

- The nobel laureate said the governor has the moral right to defect from his party

- He urged the governor to prepare for a heavy-handed campaign of reprisals from ruling party

Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, in a letter to the governor of Benue state, Samuel Ortom, has advised the governor to expect heavy-handed campaign against him and remain resilient and unbowed after his defection from All Progressives Congress (APC).

Soyinka, in his letter to the governor, said Ortom has the moral right to defect from a party where he was unable to get enough help to combat the violence and senseless killing in Benue state.

The letter read in part: As a leader of a people who took much of the earliest brunt of unleashed herdsmen savagery and cried in vain for help, you have a moral right to seek the promise of an alternative haven of security for your people.

READ ALSO: PDP senators allegedly begin search for Akpabio's replacement

They remain your primary responsibility. We are all free to cavil over the actual choice of an alternative destination, but no one can deny the inalienable entitlement to such action, especially where provoked by disillusionment and a sense of impotence under existing association.

Coincidences are, by their very nature, suspect, and I certainly perceive the beginnings of a heavy-handed campaign of reprisals from ruling circles over your political decision.

This bodes ill for the nation. It goes beyond any immediately-affected state and alerts us all to fascistic threats against a common democratic destination, and the basic right of free choice of political paths towards its attainment.

I can only urge you, therefore, to take heart, and remain resilient, unbowed, and undeterred.

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng earlier reported that the Peoples democratic Party's national chairman Uche Secondus on Wednesday, August 1, led some PDP governors and senators on a solidarity visit to Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue state following recent threats to impeach him.

In a brief speech when they met Ortom at the Government House, Makurdi, Secondus described the impeachment plot initiated by eight members of the Benue legislature as an act of illegality, and urged Nigerians to rise against it.

Nigeria News: Will Senators, Lawmakers Defection from APC Change Power in 2019? on Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit.ng
Going through social media today, there are a lot of young ladies who now depend of aphrodisiacs before having fun with their men in bed. Some even go the extra mile of making use of the ones that would enable their men spend lavishly on them.

Popular Instagram aphrodisiac therapist, Jaaruma Empire, has taken to her social media handle to call out Paul Okoyes wife, Anita, for trying to seek her help in private.

Jaaruma disclosed that she got angry when Anita attempted to join her private page on Instagram knowing fully well that she has never supported her business for once.

READ ALSO: Staying single till I find my forever love - 9ice's ex-wife Tony Payne speaks

Jaaruma did not end it there but revealed that, Anita follows her general page using another Instagram handle and when she needed her help, she decided to join her VIP page using her original Instagram account.

She posted the screenshot of her page on her handle with the caption: Dear Anita Okoye, I see u requested to follow the league of VIPs @vip_jaaruma_clients but u have never tried to reach out to me or spoken to me..... I KNOW ALL MY VIPS 1 ON 1....... I guess u like my Content, knowledge or entertainment here that's why u want to see what's on @vip_jaaruma_clients. But I must say that I'm disappointed that u follow this page with another created page but u want to follow @vip_jaaruma_clientswith ur REAL account. Im disappointing that as young as I am, me being a female MUSLIM FROM NORTHERN Nigeria, despite the STRICT RESTRICTIONS, u could not #PUBLICLY give me a pat on the back & say WELL DONE JAARUMA for humbling urself to #study Kola Nut or WELL DONE JAARUMA for humbling urself to #sell Kola Nut or WELL DONE JAARUMA for creating a job instead of spending years seeking for a job or WELL DONE JAARUMA for jobs/employment u created & paving the way for others or WELL DONE JAARUMA for turning nothing into a Multi Billion Dollar Industry DURING THE RECESSION from 2017 till date. I come from the humble Ghettos of Nyanya just as MOST OF U GOVERNORS, GOVERNORS WIVES, CELEBRITIES & VIPS u all came from nothing to something so a little encouragement or kind words go a long way & means SO MUCH for someone like me. THIS GOES OUT TO ALL THE GOVERNORS WIVES, CELEBRITIES & VIPS WHO USE MY PRODUCTS, MY KNOWLEDGE & THE HUMBLE WORK OF MY BARE HANDS Secretly but would never wipe my tears when I'm taking ALL the bullets. TO ALL THE INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE HERE OPENLY SUPPORTING THIS UR LITTLE SISTER, I WANT TO SAY A VERY BIG #THANK U & MAY GOD. I am Jaaruma, The Humble Kola Nut Seller Prov 18:16 A MAN'S GIFT MAKETH WAY FOR HIM & BRINGS HIM BEFORE GREAT MEN.

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See post below:

Nawa o!

Nigeria Celebrities: How Much Do They Spend On Luxury Life? | Legit.ng TV - on Legit.ng TV.

Source: Legit
Both home and abroad, Nigerians have shown that they are unbeatable. Aside from showcasing their special talent, they have keep graduating with honorary degrees.

Famous Nigerian young entrepreneur and Tonto Dikehs ex-husband, Olakunle Churchill, has taken to social media to celebrate his sister who recently graduated from Oxford University.

The young lady studied law and graduated with a 1st class degree. According to his congratulatory post, Churchill showered praised on his sister. The whole family were present to celebrate her achievement.

Tonto Dikehs ex-husband celebrates sister as she graduates from Oxford University. Source: @bigchurchhaven

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His post reads: Congratulations to my dearest sister as she graduates with a 1st class from her higher institution OXFORD UNIVERSITY. I am proud of you, anywhere and at anytime. Your unchallengeable intelligence has indeed stoop to conquer in victory. I wish you all the best as you delve into the next phase of your life. I want to also appreciate our loving and caring mother, for the all encompassing support and sacrifices she made to ensure that we have a good and remarkable education from one of the best academic institutions worldwide. CONGRATS SIS, I LOVE YOU.

See post below:

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Legit.ng earlier reported that Nollywood actress, Tosin Abiola, recently graduated with 1st class honours at in the United Kingdom (UK). She however acknowledged that her educational advancement came at heavy price as she had to sacrifice being with her kids who were two-year-old and seven-month-old at the time.

Congratulations!

BamBam Speaks on How She Plans to Continue Being Famous | Legit.ng TV - on Legit.ng TV.

Source: Legit.ng News
- Katsina state government has accused the immediate past government of squandering billions of naira before handing over

- The statement government says its predecessor, Ibrahim Shema-led government squandered N26 billion five months before handing over in May 2015

- It says virtually nothing was inherited from the previous government compared with the huge amount of money that was available five months before assuming power

Former governor of Katsina state, Ibrahim Shema, has been accused by the Aminu Masari-led government of squandering N26 billion five months to handing over in May 29, 2015.

Vanguard reports that the allegation was made through the secretary to the state government, Mustapha Inuwa, when members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), northwest zone, visited him in his office

Legit.ng gathers that Inuwa stated that the previous administration squandered N26 billion between January and May, 2015.

Virtually nothing was inherited from the previous government compared with the huge amount of money that was available five months before our taking over. By December 2014, it is on record in all the various accounts of the state government, there was over N30 billion in different accounts.

READ ALSO: NDRC dissociates itself from ceasefire cancellation by another militant group

But by the time we took over in May 29, we were left with just about N4 billion. N26 billion has been squandered between January and May. And it is common knowledge to all of us that the resources most of the state governments rely on that is from the federation account and has gone down by the time we came; the price of crude oil had fallen.

Despite that, the state government has done a lot in all aspects of life particularly in our priority areas of education, health, agriculture and water resources.

Reacting to the allegations, ex-chief of staff during the previous administration and current Katsina state chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, Salisu Majigiri, says: Why are they making new and fresh allegations when the case is before the court?

We challenge them to publish the state and local government account as of May 29, 2015. We left N14 billion in the account.

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a former Katsina state governor, Dr Ibrahim Shema accused his successor, Governor Aminu Masari, of masterminding his abduction by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

EFCC operatives on Tuesday, February 7, 2017, besieged the premises of the Katsina High Court where they picked the former governor up.

Women lead pro-Buhari protest in Katsina - on Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit.ng
The president of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, and the speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, have both reacted to the siege on the National Assembly by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The two leaders of the National Assembly condemned the incident and lamented that members of staff and the clerk, Alhaji Mohammed Sani Omolori, who is the administrative head of the federal legislature, were harassed and prevented from accessing their offices.

In a joint statement personally signed by Saraki and Dogara and obtained by Legit.ng, the duo called the incident another attempt to subvert the nation's democracy."

Saraki and Dogara stated that the heavy presence of armed security men who unnecessarily militarized the legislative complex and harassed legislators and the workers in the complex could not be justified in a democracy.

READ ALSO: Akpabios visit to Tinubu part of consultations - Source

The Senate president and speaker further noted that Tuesday, August 7, was a sad day for democracy as very early in the morning, they got reports backed by video and pictures, from members of staff of the National Assembly, their colleagues from both chambers and other individuals, about the heavy presence of the security personnel who insisted that nobody would enter the complex except certain senators who were to be conveyed into the complex in a coaster bus.

By 6.30 am, the reports started coming in and by 7am, there were pictures and video online showing armed security men preventing senators and honourable members from coming into the complex.

Some of our colleagues then mobilized other members in both chambers from their respective abode so that they could pressurize the security men from allowing them to gain entry.

Obviously, the public outcry from Nigerians and members of the international community against this illegality, this desecration of the sanctity of the legislature and this flagrant abuse of powers forced the government to relax the directives given to the security men as they later allowed the legislators to walk from the main gate into the foyer.

Still the lawmakers were not allowed to drive in, in their vehicles and were denied access into the main building housing their offices.

It is not clear what the plan of the government is but information reaching us indicated that some senators who are pro-executive arm are being camped somewhere here in Abuja and they are being compelled to sign an impeachment notice that would later be brought to the Assembly complex.

The Senate chamber will now be forced open to enable an illegal change of leadership take place in the Senate.

It should be noted that the Senate formally adjourned on July 24, 2018 and it stands adjourned. To reconvene, there is a process which has to be followed.

Also, it should be clear that these senators who are camped somewhere know the procedure for changing the leadership of the Senate. Both the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the presidency officials masterminding this illegality know that they do not have the numbers to lawfully carry out this action.

Therefore, we call on members of the international community to view this development as a coup against democracy.

This is a throw-back to the inglorious days of military rule where dissent is not tolerated and freedom of association and other fundamental human rights are willfully and carelessly violated, he said.

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Continuing, Saraki and Dogara said: We urge Nigerians and the international community to condemn this illegal invasion of the National Assembly complex and the attempt to asphyxiate the legislature as undemocratic, uncivilized and irresponsible.

Let us use this opportunity to thank our colleagues in the Senate and House of Representatives who immediately mobilized to resist this coup against democracy. Their action will be recorded as one taken at a time when the soul of this country is being imperilled.

They have acted to avert the breakdown of constitutionalism and collapse of the rule of law. They have stood up to dictatorship and demonstrated that this country belongs to all of us.

We also thank members of the press, local and international, and all Nigerians whose support for the cause of democracy have sustained us this far.

The statement said that as a result of the incident, the joint leadership meeting slated for Tuesday, August 7, had been postponed till further notice because under the prevailing circumstances, we cannot guarantee the safety of the 20 members from both chambers expected at the meeting.

Legit.ng earlier reported that the acting president, Yemi Osinbajo, on Tuesday, August 7, sacked the director-general of the Department of State Services (DSS), Lawal Daura.

News Nigeria Today: Who is Nigerias Smartest Politician? | Legit.ng TV

Source: Legit
Yves here. With the tsunami of ten years after the crisis stories that are already starting to hit the beach, I am endeavoring to focus on ones that contain new or significantly under-reported information or give particularly insightful overviews. Here Black gives a telling example of both how the authorities were warned of massive mortgage fraud and ignored it, and then later failed to use the same evidence to pursue the perps.

By Bill Black, the author of The Best Way to Rob a Bank is to Own One, an associate professor of economics and law at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and co-founder of Bank Whistleblowers United. Jointly published with New Economic Perspectives

Steven Krystofiak formed the Mortgage Brokers Association for Responsible Lending, a professional association dedicated to fighting mortgage fraud and predation. On August 1, 2006. He tried to save our Nation by issuing one of the most prescient warnings about the epidemic of mortgage fraud and predation and the crisis it would so cause.

The context was Congress effort to empower and convince the Federal Reserve to take action against what the mortgage lending industry called, behind closed doors, liars loans. A liars loan is a loan in which the lender does not verify (at least) the borrowers actual income. The industry knew that the failure to verify inherently led to endemic fraud. George Akerlof and Paul Romers 1993 article on Looting by financial CEOs explicitly cited the failure to verify the borrowers income as an example of a lending practice that only fraudulent lenders would use on a widespread basis.

Congress gave the Fed the unique authority to ban all liars loans in 1994, by passing the Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act (HOEPA). HOEPA gave the Fed the authority to ban liars loans even by shadow sector financial firms that had no federal deposit insurance.

Liars loans began to become material around 1989 during the savings and loan debacle where all good U.S. financial frauds are born  Orange County, California. In that era, they were called low documentation (low doc) loans. We (the West Region of the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS), were the federal regulator for these S&Ls, and we were overwhelmed dealing with the control frauds driving the debacle, who overwhelmingly used commercial real estate (CRE) as their accounting weapon of choice. Our examiners, however, made two critical points. No honest lender would make widespread loans without verifying the borrowers income because it was certain to produce severe adverse selection and produce serious losses. The examiners second warning was that such loans were growing rapidly in Orange County and multiple lenders were involved.

We listened and responded well to our examiners timely and sound warnings and made it a moderate priority to drive liars loans out of the industry we regulated. The last of the major fraudulent S&L liars loan lenders was Long Beach Savings. Long Beach set a common pattern for fraudulent lenders by also engaging in predation primarily against Latinos and blacks. In 1994, the same year HOEPA became law; Long Beach voluntarily gave up federal deposit insurance and its charger as a savings and loan. Long Beachs controlling owner, Roland Arnall, did this for the sole purpose of escaping our regulatory jurisdiction and our ability to examine, sue, and sanction the S&L and its officers. Arnall changed its name to Ameriquest, and converted it to a mortgage bank. Mortgage banks were essentially unregulated. Arnall successfully sought sanctuary in what we now call the shadow financial sector. The S&L debacle did not end. It found sanctuary in the Shadow and grew 50% annually for 13 years.

Ameriquest and its leading mortgage bank competitor, run by former S&L officers we (OTS) had removed and prohibited from working in any federally insured lender, became the leading vectors spreading the epidemic of fraudulent liars loans through (initially) the shadow sector and later back into federally insured lenders. Many of Arnalls lieutenants eventually left Ameriquest to lead other fraudulent and predatory lenders making predatory liars loans. Michael W. Hudsons book, The Monster, is a great read that presents this history. Ameriquest and its fraudulent and predatory peers grew at extraordinary rates for over a decade. They hyper-inflated the bubble and drove the financial crisis.

Alan Greenspan and Ben Bernake refused to use HOEPA to stop this surging epidemic of fraudulent and predatory liars loans. This was the setting when Krystofiak, on his own dime and initiative took advantage of a Fed hearing on predatory lending near his home to warn us all of the coming disaster. Krystofiak was not the first warning. His written testimonycited the appraisers and the FBIs prior warnings. The appraisers 2000 petition explaining how lenders and their agents were extorting appraisers to inflate appraisals was superb. Chris Sweckers 2004 warning on behalf of the FBI that the developing epidemic of mortgage fraud would cause a financial crisis if not stopped was superb.

Krystofiak was also superb. The Fed did not want to conduct hearings on fraudulent and predatory liars loans  Congress forced it to do so. The Feds Board members were not interested in stopping fraudulent and predatory liars loans. The Fed did not invite Krystofiak to testify. The Fed offered only a brief cattle call at the end of the hearing allowing (after a top Fed official had left to fly back to DC) the public to make a very brief statement.

The Feds treatment of Krysofiak stood in sharp contrast to its fawning treatment of the Mortgage Bankers Associations chosen witness. The MBA chose the leading originator of fraudulent liars loans in California  IndyMac  to present the MBAs position. The MBAs position was that the Fed should not use its HOEPA authority to ban fraudulent and predatory liars loans. The Fed officials cracked jokes with and treated the IndyMac officer like an old pal. They treated Krytofiak with cold indifference. The MBA witness presented utter BS. Krystofiakspoke truth to power. Power loved the BS. The truth discomfited the Fed officials.

Krytofiaks written testimony made many vital points, but I refer to only two related points here. First, he warned the Fed that the twin mortgage fraud origination epidemics  appraisal fraud and liars loans  were so large that they were inflating the housing bubble. Second, his means of quantifying the incidence of liars loan fraud showed the regulators and the prosecutors that they could use the same method to document reliably, cheaply, and quickly the incidence of liars loan fraud at every relevant financial firm.

Data Collected by the Mortgage Brokers Association for Responsible Lending

A recent sample of 100 stated income loans which were compared to IRS records (which is allowed through IRS forms 4506, but hardly done) found that 90 % of the income was exaggerated by 5 % or more. MORE DISTURBINGLY, ALMOST 60 % OF THE STATED AMOUNTS WERE EXAGGERATED BY MORE THAN 50%. These results suggest that the stated income loans deserves the nickname used by many in the industry, the liars loan (emphasis in original).

The MBAs anti-fraud experts, MARI, appears to have conducted the study for Krystofiak. They featured the 4506-T (the T stands for transcript) study and its finding of a 90% fraud incidence in liars loans. In 2006, MARI presented its fraud study at the MBAs annual meeting. The MBA sent MARIs report to every member, which included all the major mortgage players.

Any honest originator, purchaser, or packager of liars loans was on notice no later than mid-2006 that they could determine quickly, cheaply, and reliably the fraud incidence in those liars loans by using the 4506-T forms to test a sample of those loans. Krystofiak aptly noted that while lenders typically required borrowers to sign the IRS 4506-T form allowing the lender to access their tax information, it was actually hardly done. Lenders supposedly require the 4506-T because taxpayers have an obvious interest in not inflating their income to the IRS. The self-employed have to report their income accurately or face potential tax fraud sanctions.

The reason liars loan mortgage lenders, purchasers, the packagers of toxic collateralized debt obligations (CDOs ) that typically were composed of large amounts of liars loans, and credit rating agencies, hardly [ever] used or required the sellers to use their 4506-T authority is also clear if you understand accounting control fraud. Any 4506-T study of liars loans will document their pervasive frauds. Virtually all liars loan and CDO sales required reps and warranties that they were not fraudulent. If a firm making or selling liars loans conducted a 4506-T study and documented that it knew its reps and warranties were false, and it continued t make, sell, package, or rate those fraudulent loans under false reps and warranties it would be handling its counterparty a dream civil fraud suit. They would be handing DOJ the ability to prosecute them successfully for felonies that caused hundreds of billions of dollars in losses. The fraudulent mortgage money machine relied on the major players following a financial dont ask; dont tell policy.

The exceptions prove the rule. I have found public evidence of only two cases in which mortgage players (other than Krystofiak) conducted 4506-T audits of liars loans. I have never found public evidence that any federal regulator or prosecutor conducted or mandated a 4506-T study. The two known cases of 4506-T audits were Wells Fargo (just disclosed by DOJ) and Countrywide (disclosed by the SEC investigation and complaint). Both audits found massive fraud incidence in the liars loans. The risk officers presented these audit results to the banks senior managers.

Bank Whistleblowers Uniteds 4506-T Proposal

Two and-a-half years ago, Bank Whistleblowers United (BWU) discussed the senior officers of Countrywides response to its 4506-T audit. We noted that BWU co-founder Michael Winston blew the whistle on Countrywides frauds to the banks most senior officers to try to prevent these frauds. Mr. Winston eagerly aided potential prosecutors  who failed to prosecute Countrywides senior officers leading the frauds. BWU then explained the analogous response of Citigroups senior officers to a different but equally reliable audit conducted by BWU co-founder Richard Bowen. We did so in a January 30, 2016 New Economic Perspectivesblogurging presidential candidates in the 2016 election to pledge to implement the 60-day BWU plan to restore the rule of law to Wall Street.

As documented in the SEC complaint, Countrywides managers conducted a secret internal study of Countrywides liars loans that, on June 2, 2006, confirmed Krystofiaks findings of endemic fraud in liars loans. Fraud was the norm in Countrywides liars loans, a fact that it failed to disclose to its stockholders and secondary market purchasers. Instead of stopping such loans, Countrywides senior officers caused it to adopt what they termed Extreme Alt-A loans offered by Bear and Lehman that layered this fraud risk on top of a half dozen additional massive risks to create what Countrywides controlling officer described as loans that were toxic and inherently unsound. Alt-A was the euphemism for liars loans. Countrywide made massive amounts of Extreme Alt-A and acted as a vector spreading these toxic loans throughout the financial system. A member of our group, Dr. Michael Winston, tried to stop these kinds of abuses, which enriched top management but bankrupted Countrywide. Similarly, a member of our group, Richard Bowen and his team of expert underwriters, documented that Citigroup knew that it was purchasing tens of billions of dollars of loans annually on the basis of fraudulent reps and warranties  and then reselling them to Fannie and Freddie on the basis of fraudulent reps and warranties. Bowen put the highest levels of Citigroup (including Bob Rubin) on personal notice in writing as the incidence of fraud climbed from 40% to 60%. (It eventually reached an astonishing 80% fraud incidence.) Citigroups leaderships response was to remove his staff. Senior Citigroup officers also responded to the surging fraud by causing Citigroup to become a major purchaser of fraudulently originated liars loans.

We can now add the senior leaders that determined Wells Fargos response to its 4506-T audit. We draw on the Department of Justice (DOJ) disclosures in conjunction with its indefensible settlement of civil fraud claims against Wells Fargos massive mortgage fraud. The DOJpress release revealed that in 2005, Wells Fargo began an initiative to double its production of subprime and Alt-A loans. DOJ did not explain that this was after the FBI warned there was an emerging epidemic of mortgage fraud that would cause a financial crisis if it were not stopped. The settlement discloses that Wells risk officers alerted senior managers that the plan to increase greatly the number of liars loans would greatly increase fraud in 2005 before Wells implemented the plan.

The press release had other bombshells (unintentionally) demonstrating the strength of the criminal cases that DOJ refused to bring against Wells senior officers. Wells Fargos 4506-T audit found that its liars loans were endemically fraudulent, and the amount of inflated income was extraordinary.

The results of Wells Fargos 4506-T testing were disclosed in internal monthly reports, which were widely distributed among Wells Fargo employees. One Wells Fargo employee in risk management observed that the 4506-T results are astounding yet instead of reacting in a way consistent with what is being reported WF [Wells Fargo] is expanding stated [income loan] programs in all business lines.

The press release note some other actions by Wells senior managers that show what prosecutors term consciousness of guilt. Such actions make (real) prosecutors salivate. The press releases final substantive revelation is the unbelievable rate of loan defaults on Wells Fargos fraudulent loans and the exceptional damages those loans and sales caused.

Wells Fargo sold at least 73,539 stated income loans that were included in RMBS between 2005 to 2007, and nearly half of those loans have defaulted, resulting in billions of dollars in losses to investors.

Typical default rates on conventional mortgages averaged, for decades, around 1.5 percent. The Wells Fargo liars loans defaulted at a rate 30 times greater.

How Corrupt is Wells? Cheating Customers is Courageous

The press release does not contain the Wells Fargo gem that proves our family rule that it is impossible to compete with unintentional self-parody. Paragraph H of the settlement reveals that Wells term for doubling its number of fraudulent liars loans in 2005 was Courageous Underwriting. Wells senior managers changed its compensation system to induce its employees to approve even worse loans. Calling defrauding your customers courageous epitomizes Wells Fargos corrupt culture built on lies and lies about lies.

DOJs pathetic settlement with Wells Fargo has no admissions by the bank. It does not require a penny in damages from any bank officer. It does not require a bank officer to return a penny of bonuses received through these fraudulent loans. The settlement contains DOJs statement that its investigation found that Wells violated four federal criminalstatutes. DOJ will continue to grant de facto immunity from prosecution to elite banksters. The Trump administration has again flunked a major test dealing with the swamp banksters.

Section H (b) of the settlement is factually inaccurate in a manner that makes it highly favorable to fraudulent lenders making liars loans. There is no indication that DOJ ever investigated Wells fraudulent loan origination practices. It was overwhelmingly lenders and their loan brokers that put the lies in liars loans. DOJs settlement documents do not refer to Wells whistleblowers, even though and competent investigation would have identified dozens of whistleblowers. Throughout its Wells documents, DOJ implies that borrowers overstated their income rather than Wells and its loan brokers.

The Jig is Up on DOJs Pathetic Excuses for Refusing to Jail Elite Bank Frauds

We now know with certainty from the whistleblowers and the internal audits that the response of Citigroup, Countrywide, and Wells Fargos senior leaders to knowing that most of their liars loans and the reps and warranties they made about those loans were fraudulent. We know with certainty that Michael Winston and Richard Bowens disclosures were correct. We know with certainty that each served up to DOJ on a platinum platter dream cases for prosecuting Citigroup and Countrywides top managers. The senior managers response to proof that their banks were engaged in endemic fraud makes sense only if the senior managers were leading an accounting control fraud, which enriches the managers by harming the lender.

When the appraisers warned of extensive extortion by lenders and their agents to inflate appraisals, when the FBI warned that mortgage fraud was becoming epidemic and would cause a financial crisis if not halted, and when the MBA publicized Krystofiak and MARIs warnings that liars loans were endemically fraudulent, the fraudulent CEOs response was always the same. In each case, they expanded what they knew were endemically fraudulent liars loans and increased the extortion of appraisers.

Back to BWUs 4506-T Proposal

This brings us back to reminding the public what BWU proposed 32 months ago about 4506-T audits. Point 17 of our 60-day plan began:

Within 60 days, each federal financial regulatory agency directs any bank that it regulates to conduct and publicly report a Krystofiak study on a sample of liars loans that they continue to hold. Krystofiak  devised a clever study that he presented to the Federal Reserve in an unsuccessful attempt to try to get the Fed to stop the epidemic of fraudulent liars loans. Lenders and secondary market purchasers routinely required borrowers to authorize the lender and any subsequent purchaser of the loan to obtain a transcript (4506-T) of the borrowers tax returns from the IRS to allow the lender to quickly and inexpensively verify the borrowers reported income.

Other parts of our 60-day plan called for DOJ appointees with the courage, integrity, and skills to restore the rule of law to Wall Street. We also explained the needs (and means) for the banking regulators to conduct the investigations (such as 4506-T audits), activate a legion of whistleblowers, and make the criminal referrals to DOJ essential to bring successful prosecutions.

Conclusion

Had the regulators (particularly the Fed through its HOEPA power) required each bank making liars loans to conduct a 4506-T audit, the senior managers would have faced a dilemma. They could stop the fraudulent lending or provide DOJ with a great opportunity to prosecute them. The bank CEOs response to the internal audits showing endemic fraud and the retaliation against the whistleblowers combine to offer superb proof of senior managers specific intent to defraud. The reasons for the failure to prosecute were some combination of cowardice and politics. If Democrats win control of the House they can use their investigative powers to force each bank regulator to cause every relevant financial institution to conduct a 4506-T audit.

Of course, the Republican Senate and House chairs could order those steps today. We are not holding our breath, but BWUs co-founders are eager to aid either, or both, parties restore the rule of law to Wall Street. Instead, we are rapidly creating an intensely criminogenic environment on Wall Street that will eventually cause a severe financial crisis.
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A New Material That Could Create Super Batteries OilPrice. Vaporware alert.

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Brexit Noise Drowns Out Londons Cry for Help Bloomberg. Vlade: New term: Neglexit.'

Labours chief economic adviser confirms it is committed to the thinking that will deliver yet more austerity Richard Murphy. Who will have the heart to tell Artist Taxi Driver?

Syraqistan

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Kirsten Gillibrand Pays The Price For Speaking Out Against Al Franken Huffington Post. UserFriendly: LOL Clinton world goes after Gillibrand for being an opportunist.

Democratic challenger hopes to repeat Ocasio-Cortezs success in Washington state Seattle Times (UserFriendly)

Did Climate Change Happen Once Before In Earths History? Atlantic. UserFriendly: Stupid headline, it cycled several times, but it gives a good description of how hot the planet can get.

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Ten Years After the Crash, We Are Still Living in the World It Brutally Remade New York Magazine. A lot of perspectives, including Shiela Bair, Stephanie Kelton, and your humble blogger! Although you can tell I have gone feral. My manner of speaking to the reporter was audibly colloquial rather than elite-speak.

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Antidote du jour. Tracie H: Mr. and Mrs. Grackle sharing a meal:

And a bonus video:

See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here.
Yves here. It is probably too optimistic to think that the Trump Administrations Iran bloodlust is actually just another episode of geopolitical gaslighting of the sort Trump engaged in with North Korea. But as long as John Bolton is well ensconced, this cant be assumed not to be the real deal.

By Barkley Rosser, Professor of Economics at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Originally published at EconoSpeak

Today, President Trumps promised abjuration of President Obamas hard-negotiated nuclear deal with Iran,the JCPOA, jointly agreed with Russia, China, UK, France, Germany, the EU, and the Security Council of the United Nations. All parties agree that Iran has held to the agreement, so Trumps move is completely internationally illegal. His move is supported by exactly four other nations on the planet, and only them: Israel, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Bahrain, a group that contains about 0.5% of the worlds population. Of course the percentage rises by a couple of percent when we add Trump supporters who applaud him keeping a campaign promise, even though most of them have no idea what this is really all about.

It is clear that Trump has mostly done this to undo something Obama did, although he also very much likes pleasing the leaders of three of those nations,who have managed to get his ear. But it is not even obvious that the undoing of this agreement will actually help these nations, even though they clearly think so. The least important of them, Bahrain, might get a slight gain given that it is a majority Shia nation ruled by an oppressive Sunni elite. Maybe putting Iran under economic pressure will reduced Iranian support for restive Bahraini Shia. But then, maybe the Iranians will respond by increasing their support. Both the KSA and UAE view themselves as jousting with Iran in the Persian Gulf, although Iran has never invaded or militarily threatened either. They were not in danger, so they will not be better off. of course, the Saudis blame Iran for the success of the Houthi rebels in Yemen, where the Saudis have been heavily bombing for three years, killing many civilians. But most serious sources say that the Iranians support for the Houthis has been minimal in material terms, if not nonexistent. But given how low that is, even a worsened economic situation in Iran seems unlikely to make them halt that minimum aid, and mostly the Saudis are scapegoating the Iranians for their failure to defeat the Houthis.

As for Israel, their main concern seems to be Iranian support for Hezbollah in Lebanon (and Syria) and Hamas in Gaza, although Hamas is a Sunni group. Based on Trumps own statement yesterday, these are the main things he seems to be concerned about. He wants Iranian support for those groups reduced. Maybe that will happen, but while in the past Hezbollah did carry out terrorist actiffset ons in many places (Buenos Aires, for example), it is a long time since describing them as terrorist has been at all accurate. They have long since become part of the ruling coalition in Lebanon. They have been tamed, but the Israelisare very unhappy that they were unable to outright defeat Hezbollah the last time they invaded Lebanon. But even if Iranian aid to them is reduced, it is unlikely that that would make much difference to an outcome id they were to reinvade Lebanon. And it should be kept in mind that prior to the 1982 Israeli invasion the Lebanese Shia were largely sympathetic to Israel, and there was no Hezbollah. Just as with Hamas that they encouraged to offset the more moderate PLO, so the Israelis are themselves responsible for the very existence of Hezbollah.

Now it must be recognized that Trumps reimposition of economic sanctions will have an impact on Iran. Even though none of the other nations in the JCPOA support Trumps move, his threat to ban any company violating the sanctions from operating in the US is forcing some major European companies to leave Iran if they have much larger dealings in the US, even if their governments disagee with their moves. The most prominent companies leaving Iran now are Total and Peugeot from France and Siemens from Germany, although apparently some smaller companies with little business in the US will continue. Another round of sanctions in November will target Iranian oil exports, although there is reason to believe many nations buying oil from Iran will continue to do so then. Nevertheless, for all its illegality, Trumps reimposition of sanctions will almost certainly damage the already struggling Iranian economy, with demonstrations against the regime periodically breaking out there.

Of course it would appear that what Trump and such aides as John Bolton and Mike Pompeo want, as well as the leaderships of the four nations listed above,is regime change in Iran. The short run reaction so far has been a rise in support for the moderate Rouhani government by its hardline opponents. As it is, the most likely outcome if the weakening economy weakens political support for the government will not be regime change but simply a takeover by the hardliners. This group contains many who never supported the JCPOA, and they may well then leave it and return to enriching uranium to a high level. This will increase the national security of any of those four nations? That it would not is seen by the support for the JCPOA given publicly by many retrired Israeli military and intelligence figures.

Needless to say, there has been heightened warlike rhetoric between Iranian and US leaders.I regret that Rouhani felt he had to indulge in the first round of this. Probably this is all just chest thumping noise, but it is clear that there are some among those four nations as well as in the US who would like the US to either bomb Iran or invade it. Given how much larger and more powerful it is than Iraq under Saddam Hussein, this looks extremely dangerous, in light of what a disaster the invasion of Iraq turned out to be. Of course, given that Iran is not involved in developing nuclear weapons and has remained in accord with the JCPOA, there is no such justification for such an invasion, which would probably end up creating major problems for the Gulf nations, if not Israel, although I think the Saudi leadership is too egomaniacally stupid and incompetent to figure this out.

Yet another irony is that if either through triggering some kind of successful democratic uprising that would overthrow the Islamic regime, or if one were to be installed a la Iraq after a successful invasion, this regime would demand to have civilian nuclear power, which is overwhelmingly supported by the Iranian population (although maybe aid to Hezbollah and Hamas would end). The opposition Greens, who were violently suppressed in 2009, supported civilian nuclear power. Iran has been working for it since Eisenhower initially provided US support for it in Iran to the Shah. In the end the outcome in terms of the nuclear issue, after who knows how much cost in lives and material, would be something like what we had with the JCPOA,a carefully monitored and controlled civilian nuclear program. But it is clear that Trump is not even thinking about any part of this aspect of the matter, so focused is he on scoring short run political points and pleasing a narrow set of allies against the vast majority of world opinion, as well as an agreement made by the US government.

I see little prospect this will end well and serious danger this could lead to a seriously bad outcome. I have said it before, and I say it again: abrogating the JCPOA with Iran is by far Donald J. Trumps worst foreign policy mistake, even as few Americans realize it yet.
(Natural News) As Democrats attempt to portray POTUS Donald Trump as colluding with Russia during the 2016 election and being a patsy for Vladimir Putin, the pitiful, dishonest media is doing its best to ignore the fact that long-serving California Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein actually had a Chinese spy working for her for two decades.

Interestingly, the revelation was made by far-Left Politico in the news firms magazine, but it was buried in a much larger story of how both Russia and China are increasingly targeting Silicon Valley, using non-traditional methods of espionage in order to steal trade and technology secrets from the worlds most innovative companies.

The magazine reported in its online edition:

Former intelligence officials told me that Chinese intelligence once recruited a staff member at a California office of U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, and the source reported back to China about local politics.

Later in the article, Politico reported that according to four former intelligence officials, a staffer in Feinsteins San Francisco field office regularly reported back to Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS), Chinas intelligence agency in the 2000s. The person was eventually fired but was a liaison with the Chinese community in the city.

U.S. intelligence officials said that the suspected informant was being run out of the Chinese consulate in San Francisco. (Related: Wait, WHAT? FBI Director Wray says CHINA, not RUSSIA, most significant threat to U.S.)

And thats it. Thats the limit of the storys coverage of an incident that should very much concern every single American regardless of political persuasion for this reason alone: Feinstein has long been a top-ranking member of the Senate Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, a panel that routinely deals with classified information.

After the Politico report, there was a trickle of coverage from other news outlets, but most of the coverage was local. For instance, CBS SF Bay Area reported that the spy worked on Feinsteins staff for two decades and served as her personal driver. The local news station also reported that the FBI alerted Feinstein to the spy five years ago, but were just now learning about it.

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Wheres the rest of the media?

The San Francisco Chronicle followed that report with one of its own, adding that the staffer ran errands for Feinsteins office and served as a liaison to the local Chinese community. He also attended Chinese consulate functions on behalf of the Democratic senator.

But the paper also offered a counterpoint to the general Chinese spy narrative: It could be the asset was an unwitting one. The paper noted that the intrigue began several years earlier when the staffer visited Asia to see relatives and was befriended by someone who remained in contact with him as he made subsequent visits. That person was connected to Chinas MSS, according to intelligence officials.

He didnt even know what was happening  that he was being recruited, a source told the paper. He just thought it was some friend.

Either way, U.S. intelligence is fairly certain Feinsteins staffer was targeted by China because of her position on the Senate Intelligence Committee. They believe Chinese intelligence hoped that the staffer/mole might be able to glean bits of information that Feinstein may have felt comfortable in briefing those in her office.

Jeff Harp, a former counter-espionage FBI agent in the Bay Area, offered some additional views. He told CBS SF Bay Area that even though congressional intelligence committee members are trained about what they can and cannot say and when they can say it, if someone is driving you around for 20 years theyd be around to pick up key information if the lawmaker misspoke.

In addition to intelligence, Harp said that the Chinese have an interest in the economy here in the Bay Area. Whats being developed in Silicon Valley that has dual-use technology that can be used in the civilian and military sectors.

Either way, this story should be front page news and leading networks for days. If Feinstein wasnt a leading Democrat, it would be.

Read more about our national security at NationalSecurity.news.

Sources include:

ZeroHedge.com

Politico.com

SanFrancisco.CBSlocal.com

NewsTarget.com
(Natural News) A leading Republican congressman laid down a gauntlet for American social media behemoths Google, Facebook, and YouTube over their ongoing practice of censoring or shadow banning conservative political and media content.

During an interview with Fox Business Networks Maria Bartiromo, Rep. Darrel Issa of California, chairman of the House Oversight Committee, said Congress would be calling for an investigation of social media giants that includes Twitter, The Gateway Pundit reported.

One of the challenges is these entities have special benefits, if you will, of being immune from, if you will the rest of the responsibility the rest of the media has. That can be taken away. In the case of Twitter and these others, to be honest, if theyre going to politic through algorithm they could well come under the Federal Election Commission, said Issa. They could be considered to in fact be making an in-kind donation. They could have to register what those dollars are.

For right now what we want to do is we want to get them to admit the truth which is it doesnt seem logical that when they come up with a new algorithm it only seems to affect Republican conservatives such as Jim Jordan and the like, Issa continued. It is the reason that both the Judiciary Committee and the Oversight Committee are trying to schedule on the first day back a hearing with Twitter to give them an opportunity to explain how this anomaly that only seems to affect conservatives.

The threat to investigate, which could lead to the imposition of stiff new regulations on social media platforms to ensure fairness and to make sure that all voices are being equally represented, came just ahead of what appears to have been a coordinated action on Monday by the social media giants to ban most content from Alex Jones and his Infowars news site.

Facebook, along with Apple, YouTube, Spotify and others took down Jones pages and deleted entire libraries of podcasts and video content over nebulous allegations of hate speech. In other words, they decided on their own what constitutes hate speech and then took action arbitrarily to ban and censor Jones simply because they dont agree with his political points of view.

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This is what Communist China does

What transpired with Jones was a coordinated, illegal censorship is clear proof of an organized criminal racket being conducted by the tech giants. The RICO Act allows for federal prosecution of such criminal conspiracy, wrote Natural News founder/editor Mike Adams, the Health Ranger. (Related: Google, Facebook, YouTube censorship of conservative sites, voices just like Communist CHINA.)

The internet Dark Ages has now descended upon us, where radical left-wing tech giants run by deranged, mentally ill communists will decide whether your content qualifies as hate speech. What is hate speech? Its anything uttered by a conservative, he continued. No due process, no appeal, no transparency of the evidence against you, no ability to present evidence in your defense, no means of recourse, nothing

The tech giants have now assumed on their own that they have a right to decide who is and is not worthy of a voice, a platform, an audience. Whats more, many in the Left-wing media are cheering censorship of Jones and other conservative media because they have adopted the position that application of the First Amendment ought to be selective and allow only liberal progressive groupthink.

Some in the independent media have called for unity among like-minded publishers in standing up for Jones and against the social media censorship. Thats fine insofar as it goes. But the reality is, all media should be standing up for Jones and against censorship of any kind.

America is not Nazi Germany or modern-day China: Censorship of anyone for any reason is not something our Constitution recognizes or permits.

Read more about the social media censorship of Jones at Censorship.news.

Sources include:

NaturalNews.com

TheGatewayPundit.com
(Natural News) A 48-year-old British woman survived a rare blood cancer that was triggered by her breast implants. Known as anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), this type of cancer is said to be a result of a reaction between the white blood cells and the new generation of rough surfaced breast implants introduced a decade and a half years ago. The cancerous cells can spread throughout the body in the bloodstream if it remains untreated.

The woman, identified as Linzy Bromfield, had her breast implants 13 years ago after feeling that she had lost her femininity after having children. In 2015, she noticed that her right breast got bigger, so she went to her doctor thrice in the following weeks to drain a full cup of liquid from her breast. However, the swelling came back after a few days. She was referred to specialists at Broomfield Hospital where she was diagnosed with ALCL. With the diagnosis, she was advised to get her implants removed immediately, and she was not allowed to get new implants because of the risk that the cancer would come back. Fortunately for her, the disease did not spread throughout her body.

My doctors said if this cancer had been left for only another month, it would have spread round my body and killed me, Bromfield said.

The Royal College of Surgeons of England warns that prospective patients must be cautioned of the risk from certain cancer triggered by breast implants. This is a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system and is responsible for draining unwanted fluid from tissue and preventing infection. Although rare, ALCL can also occur in people without breast implants and anywhere in the body and it usually affects children and teens.

In the U.K. three out of 41 diagnosed women were reported to have died because of the cancer. But experts believe that the actual number of cases may be much higher because a lot of women had their implants removed after suffering from swelling and lump formation without knowing the cause. Moreover, Elise Bevan, a medical negligence solicitor at Penningtons Manches in Guildford, Surrey said that doctors are still unaware of the disease even though the risk of ALCL is included in the breast implant consent procedure.

Bromfield is the 74th woman diagnosed with ALCL in the world. Breast implant-associated ALCL was first reported in 1997 then in 2012, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a national alert, warning doctors of the association of the cancer and breast implants. In 2016, the World Health Organization recognized the breast-implant associated ALCL as a separate disease.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the U.K. started reviewing the risks associated with breast implants last year. An MHRA spokesman told Good Health that there is no concrete evidence yet on the link between ALCL and any particular model of implants. However, they advised women to check for symptoms such as lumps, swelling, or distortions through continued regular self-examination, and to visit their doctor if they have any concern.

Risk of breast implants

Aside from developing ALCL, there are other serious and life-threatening complications that come together with breast implants. These include:

Infection from bacteria and mold that can be released from the implant into the body

Surgical risks

Anesthesia risks

Chronic breast pain

Breast or nipple numbness

Capsular contracture

Scar tissue

Hardened and deformed breasts

Breakage and leakage

Necrosis

Arthritis and joint pain

Fatigue

Memory loss

Poor concentration

Metal poisoning due to platinum exposure (in silicone implants)

Silicone migration into lymph nodes and other organs

Autoimmune diseases

Death

Read more stories on the causes of cancer at CancerCauses.news.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

HuffingtonPost.com
(Natural News) The failing New York Times (NYT) is doubling down on its decision to hire an outspoken racist who hates white people to its editorial board  claiming that the infamous Sarah Jeong, a disgruntled, anti-white Asian woman, is perfectly justified in hating all white people because shes been harassed on social media in the past.

All of the grotesque statements that Jeong has made on Twitter over the years, including that White men are bull****, apparently align with the core values of the NYT, which only has glowing things to say about her in response to the controversy. Jeong has guided readers through the digital world with verve and erudition, the NYT claims, staying ahead of every turn on the vast beat that is the internet.

Her journalism and the fact that she is a young Asian woman have made her a subject of frequent online harassment, the NYT says, defending Jeong as some kind of victim in all of this. For a period of time she responded to that harassment by imitating the rhetoric of her harassers. She sees now that this approach only served to feed the vitriol that we too often see on social media.

Keep in mind that Jeong isnt exactly an honest journalist, either, despite what the NYT insists. When Jackie Coakley, a student at The University of Virginia, was caught a few years back lying about having been raped by fraternity members at her school, Jeong was there to defend not the young men that Coakley had falsely accused of this heinous crime, but Coakley the liar.

The more I see these inconsistencies and discrepancies touted as evidence of falsehood, the more convinced I am that Jackie is not lying, Jeong wrote at the time, basically admitting that she couldnt care less about actual evidence and proof when it conflicts with her preconceived notions about evil white men being rapists.

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Conservative commentator Candace Owens, a black woman, had her account suspended from Twitter for writing the exact same things Jeong did, except that she replaced white with black and Jewish

To demonstrate the age-old double standard on the issue of racism, conservative commentator Candace Owens decided to tweet the very same things that Jeong did, and that the NYT defended, except that she replaced all references to white with black and Jewish. Her account was immediately suspended by Twitter, only to later be reinstated after the social media giant received backlash for its hypocrisy.

Jewish people are bull****  like dogs pissing on fire hydrants, Owens tweeted, followed by the hashtag, #cancelJewishpeople. She added in the same tweet, Are Jewish people genetically disposed to burn faster in the sun?

The only thing that differentiates this tweet from Jeongs is that it targets Jewish people instead of white people. Owens even added a disclaimer at the bottom of the tweet explaining that it was simply a reposting of Jeongs earlier tweet, with the target being Jewish people instead of white people. But it still got her account suspended for 12 hours because it apparently violated Twitters rules and guidelines for users.

After receiving a torrent of backlash, Twitter later tried to cover its tracks, claiming that the removal of Owens account for this tweet was an error.

The thing is, I wouldnt have minded if I was locked out, because I actually agree with Twitter that that language is inappropriate, Owens stated in a follow-up to her experiment.

My point in tweeting that and replacing the word with black and Jewish yesterday was to show how different that mentality is when you see it in that context and you see talking about Jewish people and predisposed to burning under the sun or black people saying they should live underground. Its horrifically racist, but somehow weve gotten to a point in society where its OK to say the exact same thing about white people, and thats problematic.

Sources for this article include:

NaturalNews.com

Breitbart.com

DailyCaller.com
(Natural News) The GMO trolls at the New York Times are at it again, sowing seeds of confusion for the typical American consumer, who doesnt even know what genetic engineering really means, much less gene editing technology. A recent European ruling has all the biotech shills throwing their usual temper tantrums, simply because gene editing has been tossed under the danger umbrella with the genetic modification (a.k.a. recombinant DNA mutation) of crops and produce, and rightly so.

GMO huckster Carl Zimmer wants all ignorant American consumers to keep sucking down those chemical pesticides, because hes paid to convince everyone that anything unnatural and created in a laboratory is absolutely safe and amazing for the environment, plus human and animal health.

The difference between genetically modified crops and gene-edited crops is simple to understand, and they both pose major risks and unknown consequences to us all, but the Chem-Ag (chemical agriculture) industrial complex wants to keep it complicated, cloudy, and ultra-scientific sounding so everyone just takes their scripted word (lies purported by the industry) as the holy grail, pardon the pun.

Beware of foods that never spoil, like Crispr mushrooms, canola oil and BT corn

When youre shopping for greens at the market, you actually want to buy the leaves that have tiny holes in them from insects chomping a little. That means theyre edible. Get it? If your produce looks super shiny, has no flaws whatsoever, and never molds, never turns brown, and no insects will touch it no matter how long you leave it out, dont eat it. Seems like common sense, but the biotech trolls tell a much different story.

Weve been genetically engineering crops for thousands of years  they decry. Lie.

Genetic engineering of crops is the same thing as traditional crossbreeding. Wrong.

Removing gene sequences from a plants DNA is not genetic modification. Lie.

Inserting the genes from bacteria and animals into food is safe for humans to eat. Wrong.

Genetically modified Bt corn dissolves the digestive tract of insects  so what does it do to human intestines?

Biotechnology companies bragged for years about killing corn rootworms by inserting toxic bacterial genes into the corn plant that dissolve the worms digestive tract. The Bt genes (Bacillus thuringiensis) make the GM corn plant poisonous to insects and animals, including humans. Not only did the biotech lie about more yield for farmers fall apart at the seams, but evolution has gotten the best of the whole technology, because the rootworm beetles are now becoming immune to the pesticide-ridden corn. So now, Bt corn technology is not only useless, but a threat to the environment, insects, farm animals and humans. Oh, but the science is settled, right?

Call it whatever you want  RNA interference, crop editing, genetic engineering, chemical agriculture, biotechnology, crop science, transgenics, Crispr, Bt, Roundup Ready  it all has to do with the mutation of our natural world and can yield unintended, horrific consequences. Many scientists believe dangerous and experimental Crispr technology is setting the stage for more cancer cases to explode across the country.

Anyone concerned about consuming food that contains foreign proteins, genetically modified organisms, toxic bacteria, and even viral components is wise to be asking questions and filtering these laboratory experiments from their regular consumption.

After all, cancer is the mutation of cells that multiply uncontrollably and attack the good cells, and that sounds much like genetically modified crops spreading into organic crop fields.

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Mushrooms that dont brown are not natural  so if you eat them, do you become genetically modified too?

A new dangerous gene-editing technology called Crispr-cas9 has been outright rejected by the European Unions top court and classified as genetically modification. Of course, since the biotech companies in America run the regulatory agencies, like the FDA, EPA and USDA, gene-editing and GMOs are woven into the conventional crop industry as completely normal, safe, and efficient ways to feed the animals (including humans).

For decades, the U.S. regulatory agencies have had an open revolving door for CEOs and biotech lobbyists to take positions writing rules and laws that benefit their corporations, make them a fortune, and allow GMO toxins to flourish in our staple crops.

Consider this: Would you want your genes edited so you dont get cold in the winter anymore? What would happen in the extreme summer heat then? Would you die from just walking outside? The biotech goons are working on inserting genes of fish into tomatoes so theyll survive the frost. What could possibly go wrong when people eat these genetically mutated tomatoes?

There is no worldwide scientific consensus that GMOs are safe, and there never will be

Truthwiki sums it all up best right here: A fictional World Scientific Consensus about GMO has been perpetuated over recent years in mainstream media outlets and is proclaimed as science and science-based and evidence-based by the very manufactures, distributors and sellers of genetically modified organisms in agriculture in the United States of America. There is no world scientific consensus on GMOs. It is a complete fabrication, since scientific safety research  and that which is not done by the industries in question, is not readily made available to the public. Most Americans are in the dark concerning the real scientific community discussion regarding this thirty-year-old experiment called transgenics. The current think tanks between rogue industry scientists, hack journalists and pro-GMO reporters are nothing more than propaganda mixed with delusions of grandeur.

Tune into GMO.news for more information and updates on the biotech shills trying to push cancer-and-dementia-causing foods on Americans. Learn how to avoid GMOs in the very educational video below featuring Dr. Edward Group, a GMO expert.

Sources for this article include:

NYTimes.com

NaturalNews.com

TruthWiki.org

GMO.news

NaturalNews.com

StatNews.com
(Natural News) Upon hearing how dangerous glyphosate is, many peoples first question is why it is allowed to be sold if it is so deadly. The answer to that question, at least in the U.S., is very complex and involves a lot of money and political maneuvering. In Brazil, however, common sense appears to be prevailing as a judge in the country has suspended the use of glyphosate products.

A federal judge in Brasilia has ruled that any new products that use the chemical in its formulation cannot be registered there, and existing registrations will be suspended in the next 30 days while the government takes a closer look at the toxicology. The fungicide thiram and the insecticide abamectin will also be subject to this decision.

It wont be surprising to see a slew of appeals to the decision, which could hit Monsanto very hard. The company markets a genetically modified, glyphosate-resistant soybean that is widely planted in Brazil. Brazil is the biggest exporter of soybeans in the world, due mainly to high demand from China. Strains of cotton and corn that are glyphosate-resistant are also used in the country  at least for the time being.

In 2015, a federal prosecutor asked the Brazilian Justice Department to outlaw glyphosate due to concerns about health problems. Restrictions on glyphosate in Brazil are considered relatively lax, with application limits set at up to 500 mg/L; the European Unions application limit is 5,000 times less at 0.1 mg/L.

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Countries around the world are restricting and banning glyphosate

Brazil joins a growing list of countries that have banned the toxic chemical or restricted its use. In 2013, El Salvador banned the Roundup herbicide after independent studies linked the chemical to kidney disease, cancer and other illnesses.

Belgium has banned the individual use of the chemical and voted against relicensing it in the EU last year. It was also one of six EU member countries to sign a letter asking the EU Commission to establish an exit plan for glyphosate. In addition, the city of Brussels has a zero pesticides policy, which means glyphosate is completely banned there.

The Netherlands has also banned the use and sale of herbicides that contain glyphosate for noncommercial use throughout the country

In Argentina, more than 400 cities and towns have passed measures that restrict the use of glyphosate. After the International Agency for Research on Cancer concluded the chemical is probably carcinogenic to humans, more than 30,000 healthcare professionals in the country advocated for a ban of the ingredient.

France and Germany are expected to join the list soon. Last November, French President Emmanuel Macron announced the country will ban glyphosate outright within the next three years. In January, the coalition government in Germany kicked off the process of banning glyphosate, and some retail stores in the country have already pulled Roundup and similar herbicides from their shelves.

Growing list of health problems and lawsuits

Last month, a U.S. federal judge ruled that there was enough evidence for hundreds of lawsuits against Monsanto filed on behalf of cancer patients to proceed to trial. The lawsuits claim that Roundup caused peoples non-Hodgkins lymphoma and that Monsanto knew about the risk but failed to warn regulators and consumers.

Studies have also linked the chemical to a very long list of problems including heart disease, Celiac disease, inflammatory bowel syndrome, liver disease, kidney disease, Parkinsons disease, birth defects, autism, ADHD, and Alzheimers. It is also harming the environment, affecting biodiversity and putting the entire ecosystem at risk.

Given all these dangers, it is surprising that the list of places glyphosate has been banned is not longer. How many people have to die before this dangerous ingredient is finally outlawed around the planet?

Sources for this article include:

SustainablePulse.com

BaumhedLundLaw.com
(Natural News) In what certainly appears to be a coordinated act, on Monday social media and corporate giants moved to completely ban radio talk show host Alex Jones and content from his news site Infowars from the platforms in the Lefts latest effort to silence conservatives ahead of the 2018 election.

The first to move was Facebook and Apple. In a tweet, Infowars editor-at-large Paul Joseph Watson announced the Facebook ban:

Facebook has permanently BANNED Infowars.

For unspecified hate speech. They didnt even tell us what the offending posts were.

This sets a chilling precedent for free speech. To all other conservative news outlets  you are next.

The great censorship purge has truly begun.

Facebook has permanently BANNED Infowars. For unspecified "hate speech". They didn't even tell us what the offending posts were. This sets a chilling precedent for free speech. To all other conservative news outlets  you are next. The great censorship purge has truly begun. pic.twitter.com/v7Yo9hI0q3  Paul Joseph Watson (@PrisonPlanet) August 6, 2018

He noted in a subsequent tweet:

Whether you love or loathe Infowars, this now confirms that Big Tech is working with legacy media to silence independent media.

In places like Russia, the government shuts down the press, in America, CNN, Apple and Facebook fulfil [sic] that role.

Whether you love or loathe Infowars, this now confirms that Big Tech is working with legacy media to silence independent media. In places like Russia, the government shuts down the press, in America, CNN, Apple and Facebook fulfil that role.  Paul Joseph Watson (@PrisonPlanet) August 6, 2018

In addition to Facebook and Apple, Spotify and YouTube, the latter of which is owned by Google, have also banned Infowars content as well as Jones videos and podcasts.

Breitbart News reported that the bans did not simply happen, but were enacted after the companies were pressured by establishment media journalists and Democratic politicians:

Its a sign of how the concentration of power in America has shifted from big government to big tech that politicians are now lobbying tech companies rather than the other way round [sic], but thats exactly what happened over the course of the past few months, as Democrats applied relentless pressure on Facebook and other Silicon Valley giants to censor InfoWars.

Americans, by and large, wont stand for censorship

One of the leading Democrats who claimed that Jones doesnt deserve any speech platform, First Amendment protections be damned, was Rep. Ted Deutch of Florida, who demanded to know why Facebook officials hadnt already banned Jones during a House Judiciary Committee hearing on social media. Calling Jones a well-known conspiracy theorist and a bully, Deutch also wanted to know what needed to happen before YouTube banned him as well.

Whats truly amazing  or frightening  is the number of establishment journalists who are supporting the social media censorship of Jones and all other conservative voices.

Theyre saying things like Jones isnt a real journalist and Infowars isnt a real news organization, therefore neither deserves to have a platform for their voice. And they call POTUS Trump and his supporters Nazis? (Related: Two of the worlds most evil people  Bill Gates and George Soros  behind Facebooks news censorship agenda.)

Supporters of the censorship and banning of Jones are also claiming that what he publishes is fake and misinformation but without offering up a shred of proof or evidence that what they allege is even factual. Whats hilariously ironic is that some of them work for genuine fake news factories like CNN, the Washington Post and The New York Times, all of whom have published factually incorrect stories on several occasions in the age of Trump.

Instead of defending Jones right to publish and the right to have a voice and a platform just like they have, these media hacks are allowing their political viewpoints to cloud their judgment. No way they would ever put up with being treated in a similar fashion.

Heres whats going to happen in the very near future if this censorship isnt reversed by the social media giants: Theyre no longer going to be social media giants.

If the Republican-led Congress doesnt pass legislation to block their ability to arbitrarily ban people they dont agree with, a government agency will step in and regulate them. At the same time other social media platforms like Brighteon.com will take off and steal users, leaving Facebook, Google, and the others a shell of their current selves.

In the long run, our country wont tolerate Left-wing censorship bullies. Hide and watch.

Read more about social media censorship at Censorship.news.

Sources include:

NewsTarget.com

Breitbart.com
(Natural News) Coffee plants, which are used to create one of the most sought-after drinks around the globe, are being attacked by parasites.

However, scientists are looking into a detection method that can help farmers protect their crops.

While the microscopic worms exist in various soil samples from coffee farms, theyre immediately spotted because of a simple and efficient method. This method  detailed in a report published in the journal Phytopathology  has scientists hoping that it can be used to study the parasite further.

The coffee plants are targeted by two dominant nematode species found in the soil, and damaging the roots of plants. The microscopic worms are hard to detect since affected plants dont usually display specific symptoms.

Research on the microscopic worms

The nematodes attack and consume the plant roots, which weakens the plant and results in yield loss. The parasites also target the banana and black pepper plants that are usually grown in coffee farms since the two plants offer a rich environment that lets the latter thrive.

The research team was spearheaded by scientists from the University of Leeds who collaborated with agronomists and researchers from Nestle. The team also included international academic researchers.

The researchers gathered soil samples from plantations in Brazil, Indonesia, and Vietnam which they studied to identify DNA from the nematodes.

While the nematode worms that destroy coffee crops have already been reported, the study is the first to present a molecular-based study to assess plant-parasitic nematodes in coffee fields. For the study, researchers sampled multiple crop plants in three of the worlds major coffee producing nations.

Peter Urwin, Professor of Plant Nematology at the University of Leeds Faculty of Biological Sciences explained, We found widespread evidence of these parasites. The exact species vary by country and looking at soil samples, I can tell the difference between Vietnam and Brazil or Indonesia. The sad fact is that wherever we take samples, we find plant-parasitic nematodes, which are hugely damaging to coffee crops. (Related: Coffee plants grow better without chemicals; healthy soil has microbes and fungi that nourish plants and act as biofertilizers.)

Coffee plants have an average lifespan of about 2o years. The plants are valuable because coffee is always in demand and farmers often grow them next to other plants like bananas and black pepper to maximize profits.

However, growing these plants side by side can worsen the problem and researchers advised the farmers to consider a mitigation method, which involves cultivating the plants separately. This can make it easier to detect an infection and prevent the other crops from getting damaged.

Professor Urwin shared that growers in vineyards tend to plant pest-resistant but less desirable grapes. The farmers then graft preferable grape varieties on the vines to defend the plant against root parasites. He posited that learning which parasites target specific coffee crops and where they live, along with resistant coffee plants, can help growers protect their plants.

Dr. Christopher Bell, who carried out the research, said that the team was worried about the level of parasites present in the soil samples that they studied. He remains hopeful that other scientists can use their findings to develop effective ways of fighting against the nematodes.

Dr. Bell concluded, Ultimately, farmers and growers should benefit from this work and take appropriate mitigating actions.

Fast facts on nematodes

Nematodes, which are also called roundworms, are worms of the phylum Nematoda.

Nematodes are the most abundant animals on the planet. They are parasites that target both animals and plants.

Nematodes are also free-living forms in freshwater, marine environments, and soil. The parasitic worms can even thrive in unusual environments like beer malts, vinegar, and water-filled cracks under the planets crust.

There are at least 20,000 named species of nematodes, but its possible that this only represents a small fraction of the worms in existence.

Learn more about other scientific findings on coffee farming and plant parasites at Research.news.

Sources include:

ScienceDaily.com

Britannica.com
(Natural News) If you still believe that Democrats and their Left-wing sycophantic supporters are the true warriors against hate, racism, and bigotry, this story ought to disabuse you of that mischaracterization for good.

In recent weeks, The New York Times hired as an opinion page writer Sarah Jeong, a far-Left hater and bigot whose Twitter page is littered with anti-white racist filth.

In one post from November 2014, she wrote, simply, #CancelWhitePeople, according to The Gateway Pundit.

In another, she added more words and lots of vulgarity: Dumb**s f**king white people marking up the internet with their opinions like dogs pissing on fire hydrants.

oh man its kind of sick how much joy I get out of being cruel to old white men, she wrote in another.

You get the drift. If Sarah Jeong isnt a bigoted, racist hater, then there is no such thing as one.

And yet not only has the Times defended her, in part, by making ridiculous claims like she cant be a racist because she doesnt have any power, the paper explicitly sought her out because diversity on the op-ed page.

Whats really stupid is that her hiring was ultimately blessed by white men including the Times white privileged publisher, A. G. Sulzberger.

Shes also used some pretty pathetic excuses to justify her racism  like turning the tables.

As a woman of color on the internet, I have faced torrents of online hate, she said, according to the failing New York Daily News. Her new employer took the same tack, arguing that she was targeted because of her work and her race, the NY Daily News reported.

Does anyone think that perhaps she was targeted by racists comments because she made them first?

Did anyone at the Times think to ask? Of course not.

.



This is the new American Left

The cover-up for this racist continued at Wikipedia, which proved once again why most reputable colleges and universities do not allow their students to use it as a source: Its inaccurate and biased.

Initially, the Internet encyclopedia of record had no mention of Jeongs racists tweets, but as of this writing, the site added content about them but provided her a way out by saying she called her tweets counter-trolling. That sounds familiar, doesnt it?

Certainly, this justification is laughable and such extreme consideration would not be extended to a white journalist with a record of tweeting hateful comments toward members of any other race, writes Jeff Crouere at Townhall.com. The newspaper had no qualms about firing technology columnist Quinn Norton when her anti-gay and anti-Black tweets were unearthed. Presumably, in the view of The New York Times, charges of racism are reserved for white people only, especially those who are conservatives.

Without a doubt. And lets not forget the treatment of Roseanne Barr who was fired recently for a race-related tweet about former President Obamas longtime adviser Valerie Jarrett.

Its all part of a pattern on the Left: Anything said to white people and in particular white men is acceptable and justifiable because of all the alleged horrors white men have inflicted upon America like capitalism, innovation, technology, inventions, modern medicine, and a ton of other accomplishments. (Related: Obama praises genocidal South African leader who promotes mass murder of whites.)

But beyond that, its just hypocritical as can be that racism in America is still present in its ugliest forms and even championed by a certain political party and its members (Democrats) when once upon a time that very same party portrayed itself as the epitome of anti-racism and bigotry.

As for Jeong, her outsized hatred of white people and especially white men doesnt jibe with the fact that a whole bunch of them dressed up as American soldiers put their lives on the line for her every day of her life  in her native Korea and today in her adopted country.

To call her a raging bigot is too kind.

Read more about race conflicts brewing at RaceWar.news.

Sources include:

Townhall.com

NYDailyNews.com

TheGatewayPundit.com

TheNationalSentinel.com
(Natural News) As a complete and appropriate retort to the massive purge thats happening to Conservatives on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Apple, Spotify, and Stitcher, a new social media platform should be called RightMedia and invite the 50 million Trump Twitter followers to join on day one, just as a massive jumpstart. One billion dollars should be the upfront advertising budget donated by ultra-rich Conservatives who believe in free speech and freedom of expression for the Right.

Sure, two wrongs dont make a right, but until Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos respect the free press and the Constitution, RightMedia would simply serve justice and ultimately provide a level playing field for political and social voices in America that support patriotism, borders, police, prisons, laws, the right to bear arms, the right to protest peacefully, the right to own land, the right to own your own business, and the right to the pursuit of happiness  all things the Left wants to dismantle and permanently take away from Americans.

Multi-platform RightMedia could totally replace YouTube, Facebook, Apple, Instagram, Pinterest, Spotify, i-Tunes, Stitcher and Twitter

The reason the ultra-rich must help start RightMedia is because it takes super-funding to advertise and support a massive platform to compete with the social media giants (Big Tech). Even though most of the major TV networks are owned and operated by rich Left-wing freaks and globalist plotters, there is still plenty of room for a massive advertising campaign to spread across America and the globe quickly. The use of billboards, radio, Fox, Drudge, ZeroHedge, Natural News, and every Conservative voice that has yet to be banned on social media  all of this can give RightMedia instant clout and popularity. In fact, RightMediaTV could be the new television station that supports the U.S. Republic.

Its time to get some techies to create algorithms for identifying anyone who likes CNN or spouts lewd and salacious hatred online for our POTUS. Its time to cut a major chance for revenue for the communists in America who disguise themselves as socialists. Its time to blast the social media airwaves with real news about clean food, natural medicine and organic agriculture.

Be heard instead of getting purged  join RightMedia and support freedom of expression, intelligent opinions, and your Bill of Rights

On RightMedia, its perfectly fine to post excerpts from our Constitution. On RightMedia, you can debate political topics intelligently and you will be heard instead of purged. On RightMedia, there are no cloudy, manipulating rules to censor you, like hate speech and community guidelines. On RightMedia, your private information and that of your friends wont be sold to corporations. On RightMedia, you can talk about your religion openly and not be shadow banned for it.

On RightMedia, you can be friends with someone from Russia and not be arrested for collusion and conspiracy. On RightMedia, if you want to be a conspiracy theorist, thats fine. Most of the conspiracy theories of the past couple decades turned out to be true anyway, so whos to judge you in the first place for questioning some mass media narrative?

The Communist-Americans and Biotech Shills will be the first ones banned on RightMedia

Say goodbye to the shills, charlatans, hucksters, hacks, posers, sellouts, and journo-terrorists from the ultra-biased New York Times, the Washington Post, Forbes, Slate, Boston Globe, CNN, ABC, CBS, NBC, MSNBC, NPR, Komen Foundation, including Nancy Pelosi, Maxine Waters, Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, Saturday Night Live, Hitlery Clinton, the Zika virus hoax, liars supporting GMOs, Big Pharma ads, Big Food propaganda, Antifa, SJW, Snowflakes, Southern Poverty Law Center, Snopes, Associated Press, the CDC lies, the FDA cons, the shadow government, and all the rest of the tyranny coming from the Left.

Until RightMedia is founded, funded, and activated, NOW is the time to stop using Google, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and the rest of the far-Left hypocritical communism-supporting platforms. There are alternatives already in place. For your search engine, use GoodGopher. For all of your videos research and sharing, check out Brighteon.com. Go to Trump.news and keep helping expose all the fake news perpetuated by the MSM.

Until ultra-rich Conservatives step up to the plate and propel RightMedia, keep supporting our border police, our right to bear arms, our right to protest peacefully, our right to clean food and natural medicine, our freedom of press, religion, and you know the rest.

For now, everyone can blast social media with this article and this new media proposition. Everybody tweet to President Donald Trump that we need a new massive liberty-loving social media platform, search engine and television station. For now, every patriot needs to support Congressmen who are beginning the litigation process against Big Tech and the social media giants who are banning and purging Conservative voices from the current platforms.

The good news is that a leading Republican Congressman said Congress will soon be investigating, via the FEC (Federal Election Commission), the in-kind donations of social media giants through their continued biased algorithms that ban and purge only Conservative voices, while giving rise to Communist and Socialist Leftist voices and businesses.

Help stop the social media giants and their monopoly on information sharing. Watch Paul Joseph Watson explain exactly whats going on in with the information Purge in this video below.

Sources for this article include:

NaturalNews.com

GoodGopher.com

NaturalNews.com

DailyCaller.com

ZeroHedge.com

ZeroHedge.com

NaturalPedia.com

Trump.news
(Natural News) A devastated army veterans family is demanding answers after the 41-year-old died under mysterious circumstances while in police custody and his organs went missing.

It all started when Everett Palmer Jr. was charged with driving under the influence, failing to stay in his own lane, and careless driving after being found responsible for a single car accident in October 2016. The only person harmed in the accident was Palmer himself. When he failed to show up for court to address fines and fees related to the accident, a warrant was issued for his arrest.

On April 7, Palmer turned himself into police. Two days later, he was pronounced dead. What happened during those two days, however, remains a mystery. At 4:20 on the morning of April 9, York County prison staff claim they found him hitting his head against his cell door. At that point, they say they brought him to the in-house medical clinic. There, he was reportedly physically restrained for the next hour before becoming unresponsive. He was moved to York Hospital and pronounced dead there at 5:46 a.m.

Palmers cause of death is still undetermined. York County Coroner Pam Gay declined to elaborate on how Palmer was restrained  which is raising a lot of red flags  although she did comment that sometimes they have to use physical restraint to render assistance to people especially if they are self-harming.

The coroner stated that Palmer had a high level of methamphetamines in his system at the time of his death. This has prompted further questions given the fact that he had voluntarily turned himself in to the police two days prior. Depending on the testing method used, and it may even turn out that he somehow was given meth while in police custody.

The coroner said that his death came about due to complications following an excited state, associated with methamphetamine toxicity, during physical restraint.

What happened to Palmers organs  and why have they gone missing?

His family hired a forensic pathologist to investigate the matter further, but they were told that his organs were needed and have now disappeared under mysterious circumstances. His family wants to know how his brain and heart were taken out of his body without notification and why they have not been returned.

Its anybodys guess what might have happened to his organs. The fact that theyve disappeared could point to a potential cover-up, and some have even theorized that they were harvested.

Because the police department and coroner are not being forthcoming, questions are growing about what caused his death, who may have been involved in it, and why exactly the county appears to be hiding something and continues to be evasive when answering questions.

In an email to the York Daily Record, the Palmer familys attorney, Marlon Kirton, wrote: There is nothing today that changes our view that an unarmed veteran and father of two died at the hands of law enforcement. He did not commit suicide, and this was no accident. He was killed.

Palmer grew up in Queens, New York. He served as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army and later worked with special needs children before becoming a personal trainer. He left behind two sons aged 12 and 8.

Sources for this article include:

TheWashingtonStandard.com

WITF.org
In the wake of three recent homicides and other violent crimes on the BART system, BART general manager Grace Crunican announced Monday that she's asking the transit district's board to approve a $28 million comprehensive safety and security plan.

Crunican said the series of proposals that the board will consider at its meeting Thursday are aimed at boosting the visible presence of police and other transit agency employees in the system, enhancing BART's network of surveillance cameras and increasing public safety outreach.

In the most highly publicized homicide, Nia Wilson, 18, was fatally stabbed at the MacArthur station in Oakland at 9:36 p.m. on July 22. John Lee Cowell, a 27-year-old transient, was arrested the next evening and has been charged with murder and other offenses.

Gerald Bisbee, 51, of Pittsburg, died on July 20 after being assaulted at the Pleasant Hill station on July 18 and Don Stevens, a 47-year-old transient, died after being attacked on the platform of the Bay Fair BART station in San Leandro at about 1:20 a.m. on July 21.

In addition, two people were stabbed by an attacker at the MacArthur station on Friday night.

"BART has always been focused on public safety but it's clear that we must do even more," Crunican said in a statement.

"The tragic murder of Nia Wilson has deeply saddened everyone at BART as well as the communities we serve. Our riders are demanding that we do more to maintain public safety and this plan offers multiple new initiatives we can immediately begin to roll out," she said.

Crunican said the first part of her proposed action plan was already into place today, when the BART Police Department temporarily canceled off days for all its officers."

She said that means patrol officers, community service officers, and dispatchers are now working six 10-hour days a week and patrol officers who work on their normal days off are required to ride trains throughout their shifts.

"Though this is a temporary measure, it immediately boosts the visible presence of law enforcement throughout the system," Crunican said.

A second proposal is to train teams of BART employees to staff trains and stations while wearing high-visibility vests to provide an additional layer of visibility to BART's safety efforts. Such teams would be deployed temporarily at times of greatest need.

Crunican said a third proposal is to accelerate "station hardening efforts" to make it harder for riders to bypass the transit system's fare gates.

She said those efforts include raising barriers to 5 feet and adding additional fencing to include elevators in paid areas and adding a second proof of payment team for evenings.

A fourth proposal is to have platform emergency call boxes that would be installed on each platform.

Crunican said each call box would have a direct intercom with BART police dispatchers and a camera would activate whenever the intercom button is pushed.

Although stations currently have white courtesy phones to connect to station agent booths, Crunican said the emergency call boxes would offer more options and a quicker connection to dispatch.

A fifth proposal is to install video screens showing real-time station images and enhanced video surveillance signage.

Crunican said the idea would be tested at the Civic Center station in San Francisco, where video screens would be strategically placed at station entrances to remind riders the area is under surveillance.

BART would install signs that inform people in and around the station that they are under video surveillance.

Crunican also is proposing that there be a no panhandling ordinance within the BART system's paid areas.

In addition to Crunican's various proposals, the BART Police Department has contracted with the University of North Texas to develop a five-year strategic plan for appropriate police staffing levels for the BART system.

Crunican said she has the authority to enact some of her proposals on her own but others require board action for procurement or adoption.
What to Know The man killed in the Bay Bridge shooting has been identified as 31-year-old Darryl Stinnette of Mesquite, Texas

Stinnette, who worked as a music manager, is described as a good guy who helped young artists trying to break into the rap industry

Authorities are still trying to track down the suspect or suspects in the deadly shooting that occurred Monday morning

A 31-year-old music manager and father from Texas has been identified as the man who was killed in Monday morning's shooting on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, according to his business partner.

Darryl Stinnette of Mesquite, Texas, and two other men were riding in an SUV heading from San Francisco to Oakland around 2:20 a.m. when a vehicle pulled up next to them and someone opened fire, according to the CHP. Stinette, the driver of the SUV, died at the scene, and another man was shot and wounded. A third man suffered injuries in a subsequent collision.

Stinnette was in the Bay Area over the weekend for a few club appearances, including an appearance at a club in San Francisco before the shooting took place, according to his business partner, Michael Bartolomeo.

Bartolomeo said their other business partner was also in the vehicle at the time of the shooting and told him there were no altercations or disputes during or after the club appearance in San Francisco. He added that the suspect vehicle randomly drove up next to them and someone fired shots.

"According to my business partner who was also in the car, he had no idea who it was or why they were targeted or what it was about," Bartolomeo said.



Stinnette, who leaves behind multiple children, including a newborn, is being described as a good guy who helped young artists trying to break into the rap scene, according to Bartolomeo.

"He was truly one of the good guys," Bartolomeo said. "He was not about violence or anything like that. That's what really makes it so difficult, cause we know it had nothing to do with anything that he had to do."



Authorities are still trying to track down the suspect or suspects in the case. The suspect vehicle was described as a silver or gray vehicle.

The shooting and subsequent investigation shut down all eastbound lanes of the bridge for multiple hours early Monday, causing a traffic nightmare on the major traffic artery in the Bay Area.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Even with tubs once again filled with bright green leafy marijuana, there was ample evidence all around of the devastating fires that consumed the SPARC marijuana farm in Glen Ellen last October, wiping out the companys first cannabis crop just days after it was harvested.

Blackened trees flanked the dozens of marijuana tubs; the hillside looked as if it was covered in black toothpicks; a tractor knocked down the scorched remains of a metal building as SPARC founder Erich Pearson took call after call from his contractor working on rebuilding.

It took quite a hit, Pearson said of his farm, we lost 95 percent of the cannabis we harvested that season.

The fire claimed several homes on the property as well as 30,000 square feet of historic barns, some of which SPARC was using to dry and store its fledgling crop of marijuana. Pearson said crop insurance wouldve cost a lot and covered little  so the company didnt have any.

The ground was still smoldering early last October when Pearson made a pledge to rebuild  and upon a visit to the property last week  it appeared he was making good on his word. A tractor poured soil onto a vast plot of land where workers were laying the foundation a new 20,000 square foot barn.

And a nearby greenhouse was filled to the hilt with more tubs of marijuana plants which were a couple of months from harvest.

This crop is gorgeous this year, Pearson said, weve done a really great job so far of rebuilding this field.

In the nearby burned out neighborhoods of Glen Ellen in rural Sonoma County, there were plenty of signs of rebuilding  but also plenty of for sale signs. With much of California battling wildfires, Pearson understood the sentiment of those who didnt plan to return.

These fires are a real thing, Pearson said, and it doesnt look like theyre going to get any better so its quite concerning.

Pearsons company wasnt the only one returning to the burned-out property. On the far end of the land, farmers Melissa and Austin Lely were busy tending rows of cherry tomatoes, flowers, eggplants and hundreds of chickens.

The couples barn burned in the fire as well as the home they were renting. In the interim they were staying at a nearby property with hopes of eventually moving back.

We started everything from scratch, Austin Lely said, so this was kind of a big year for us to be farming and trying to build the farm at the same time.

Pearson said he was applying lessons learned from the fires in the rebuilding  with plans to install a 150,000 gallon water tank along with hydrants around the property.

In a way, its as if the years navigating the regulatory rollercoaster of the illegal/legal cannabis industry prepared Pearson for this very situation.

I think this business sort of comes with  you dont quite understand whats around the corner the next day, Pearson said.

After a brief tour of the property, peppered with phone calls and text messages, Pearson finally bounded off to meet with his contractor. There was much to rebuild  and a harvest just two months away.
Lawyers for a school groundskeeper dying of cancer told a San Francisco jury on Tuesday to find that agribusiness giant Monsanto's widely used weed killer Roundup likely caused his disease.

The jury was hearing closing arguments from Dewayne Johnson's lawyers about the suit, the first case to go to trial among hundreds of lawsuits saying Roundup caused non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, as well as counter-arguments from Monsanto's attorneys.

Johnson's representatives asked the jury to penalize Monsanto $373 million in damages, or interest of their cash on-hand in years, since Johnson developed cancer. Thats a number that makes people change their way, one of the attorneys said.

On the other hand, Monsanto's lawyer George Lombardi said the evidence is clear after 40 years of Roundup being on the market, that Johnson's cancer was caused by the product.

Groundskeeper Dewayne Johnson (left) walks into court with members of his legal team as closing arguments continue in his landmark lawsuit against Agriculture giant #Monsanto . He claims repeated use of their weed killer #Roundup caused him to develop likely fatal cancer. pic.twitter.com/buNUXQ5fR7  Christopher Jewett (@sfnewsman) August 7, 2018

Closing arguments in #Monsanto trial going on now. Atty. representing Dewayne (Lee) Johnson, Bay Area man dying of cancer, comes out swinging: "Monsanto denied Mr. Johnson *choice about his health" and health of children where he used Round Up."Today is their day of reckoning!"  Sam Brock (@SamNBCBayArea) August 7, 2018

Dramatic moment in court closings for #Monsanto trial. Atty. for Lee Johnson accuses company of learning abt. new cancer research, planning to orchestrate outcry before research is out. I have no problem w/ the company making $, but I have a problem...doing it dishonestly!  Sam Brock (@SamNBCBayArea) August 7, 2018

#MonsantoTrial resumes- atty. George Lombardi launches into research of disease in *humans (epidemiology) on Round Up causing cancer- 40 yrs of this product being on the market, 40 yrs of scientific regulation...evidence is clear: [Johnsons] cancer wasnt caused by Round Up.  Sam Brock (@SamNBCBayArea) August 7, 2018

Johnson sprayed Roundup and a similar product, Ranger Pro, at his job as a pest control manager at a San Francisco Bay Area school district, according to his attorneys.

He sprayed large quantities from a 50-gallon tank attached to a truck, according to his attorney, Brent Wisner. When the wind was gusty, it would cover his face, Wisner said. When a hose broke once, it soaked his entire body.

Johnson read the label carefully and even contacted the company after developing a rash, but was never warned it could cause cancer, Wisner said. He was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2014 at the age of 42.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says glyphosate is safe for humans when used in accordance with label directions. A draft report by the agency last year concluded the herbicide is not likely to be carcinogenic to humans. The report noted that science reviews by numerous other countries had reached the same conclusion.
A government report Monday warned that the Department of Homeland Security, or DHS, risks blowing through its budget and not meeting key deadlines regarding President Donald Trump's proposed border wall, NBC News reported.

The report by the Government Accountability Office, or GAO, an internal government watchdog agency, found that DHS has not provided a complete analysis required to efficiently build the proposed barrier along the Mexico border  which could result in wasted taxpayer money. It also said the wall may not work as planned.

"DHS plans to spend billions of dollars developing and deploying new barriers along the southwest border," the study said. "However, by proceeding without key information on cost, acquisition baselines, and the contributions of previous barrier and technology deployments, DHS faces an increased risk that the Border Wall System Program will cost more than projected, take longer than planned, or not fully perform as expected."



A spokeswoman for DHS said the risks, threats and costs were taken into account during "initial prioritization" for developing barriers.

"After years of investment in a border wall system, we experienced a roughly 90 percent reduction in apprehensions in the San Diego, El Paso and Yuma sectors," she said.
What to Know Mass. State Police say troopers responded to the scene near a bath house at Carson Beach in South Boston just after 6 a.m. Tuesday.

The victim said she was raped by a man who was part of a larger group of people around 4:30 a.m. Tuesday; she was taken to BMC by paramedics

Investigators say the suspect left the area before the assault was reported; a description was not immediately released.

Authorities are investigating a possible sexual assault on South Boston's Carson Beach.

Massachusetts State Police say troopers responded to the scene, which was near a bath house, just after 6 a.m. on Tuesday after a passerby noticed a woman in distress.

The victim was taken to Boston Medical Center by paramedics to be checked out.

A preliminary investigation indicates that a group of people  whom investigators described as likely members of the homeless community  had been gathered near the bath house around the time of the incident.

The victim told investigators she was raped by one of the men who were nearby around 4:30 a.m.

The news of the alleged assault is alarming for camp counselors like David Harris who is responsible for kids in the summer.

"Definitely scary and definitely upsetting to here," Harris said. "You have to be extra vigilant and look after there safety as much as possible."

Harris said his employer always makes sure they can see kids at the camp.

"We have a pretty standard policy of sight and sound so the group that's always with us  within sight and sound of an adult staff," Harris said.

Brianne Korona, who visits beach often, said she was disgusted to hear of the incident.

"It's disgusting, it's awful, it's horrible," she said. "It's unfortunate that this happened."

A family in town from Colorado to watch the Sox-Yankees series over the weekend were also shocked but said it would not deter them from having fun.

"Didnt deter us but you know, definitely safety and stay together. Keep my daughter with us and not let her walk around by herself," said one mom from Colorado.

Investigators say the suspect is believed to have left the area before the assault was reported. A description of the suspect has not been released.

No other details were immediately available.

The investigation is ongoing.
The violent weekend is drawing a strong reaction from several candidates challenging Mayor Rahm Emanuel in the upcoming election.

The election is six months away, and the city's violent crime crisis is expected to be a major issue in the campaign.

With tears in his eyes, Emanuel asked residents to turn in those responsible for the city's bloody weekend. Questions surfaced -- with Lollapalooza, were there enough officers in the neighborhoods.

"There was no draining of resources because of Lollapalooza, that was all overtime initiative that handled that," Chicago police Supt. Eddie Johnson said.

Candidate Lori Lightfoot said she hopes that's true.

"I hope that we didn't drain resources for Lolla that should have been in the neighborhoods," she said.

Paul Vallas called for City Hall to "stop micromanaging the police department."

"City Halls has got to provide the police department with the resources they need to be effective," he said.

Mayoral candidates offered Monday what they would do differently.

Lightfoot said she would rather have $10 million go toward neighborhoods than a new river walk.

Vallas cited low clearance statistics for shootings, murders and carjackings--and noted there's a "serious problem" that needs addressing in Chicago.

Ja'mal Green also weighed in.

"We have boarded up schools, boarded up businesses, and they're knocking down these houses and no plans to develop them," Green said. "So what type of home are you giving to these communities?

Former police superintendent Garry McCarthy spoke to NBC 5 about the issue Monday by telephone.

"There's a tried and true method to reduce crime," he said. "We choose not to do it here in Chicago because of our politics."

Not just local -- but national attention adds increased pressure to solve Chicago's crime crisis.

"What happened this weekend did not happen in every neighborhood in Chicago," Emanuel said Monday. "But it is unacceptable to happen in any neighborhood of Chicago."
Hidden away, in the custody of the sheriffs office in Berrien County, Michigan, are the two best pieces of evidence in the most notorious unsolved crime in Chicago history.

That crime, the St. Valentines Day Massacre, Feb. 14 of 1929, shocked the public, and arguably changed the course of the citys tolerance of outfit violence. Seven associates of crime boss Bugs Moran had been lined up and machine-gunned against the north wall of a garage at 2122 N. Clark St. Suspicion immediately centered on the gang of Morans arch-rival Al Capone (who was conveniently ensconced at his home in Florida when the murders occurred).

With the only survivor a German Shepard who was hardly in a position to finger the killers, the massacre eventually faded from view. And it remains an open case to this day.

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But the two machine guns which were used in the killings still exist. They remain, in cold steel, the only witnesses to a lurid chapter of Chicago crime lore.

This took it to a whole new stratosphere, notes Mike Kline, a retired lieutenant from the Berrien County sheriffs office. The St. Valentines Day massacre was off the charts, as far as violence went.

How the guns came to be in Michigan is a story in itself.

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Ten months to the day after the massacre, Dec. 14 of 1929, a St. Joseph, Michigan police officer named Charles Skelly was gunned down on the street. There were plenty of witnesses to that murder, and police quickly raided the home of a notorious hoodlum known as Fred Killer Burke.

The officers were astounded at what they found, says Berrien dispatch supervisor Chriss Lyon. It was an arsenal, that included these two guns---along with many other guns.

Word traveled fast that two machine guns had been recovered. Chicago expressed interest, and authorities enlisted the aid of Northwestern University professor Calvin Goddard, who had become an expert in a brand new field of criminology: ballistics.

He test fires the two guns, and he has the shell casings and the bullets from the crime scene, Kline notes. And he does his comparison and he confirms that these were the two guns.

Indeed, the transcripts of the 1929 coroners inquest reveal that Goddard was certain in his identification.

The two machine guns that you have testified to were used in the massacre? coroner Herman Bundesen asked.

Yes, sir, Goddard replied.

It was over a year later that Burke was finally found, hiding out in Missouri. Chicago and other cities expressed interest. But Berrien County had the strongest case against him, with eyewitnesses to officer Skellys murder. Burke was tried and convicted there, and eventually died in a Michigan prison.

He never talked about the St. Valentines Day massacre, Lyon says. In fact, he got very angry when people would start asking him about it.

Still, most historians and armchair crime buffs feel Burke must have been present for the infamous crime.

In as much as the guns were found in Fred 'Killer' Burkes bungalow, and Fred was a known machine gunner, says Kline, Im sure that Fred was one of the gunners there that day.

Lyon, author of a book on the case, A Killing in Capones Playground, notes that Burke seemed relieved that when he was arrested he had been found by police, and not Capones gang, who almost certainly wanted to see him silenced. That never happened. And no one else ever gave up the crime.

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How can you possibly solve a crime when you have no witnesses, she said. You can have evidence, you can have guns, you can have the ballistics, you can have all of this, but if you have no one to connect it to, you have nothing.

The weapons are rarely fired. Its tough to get parts for Thompson machine guns which are nearly a hundred years old. Kline, the official keeper of the guns who shows them often to law enforcement or history groups, still marvels that the killers took the secrets of the massacre to their graves. Especially considering the fact that in addition to the four gunmen, there almost certainly were others who served as lookouts and planners for the massacre.

Theres estimates that over 25 people took part in this thing, he says. To think that nobody ever spilled the beans, nobody ever gave this up, after 80 some odd years---is incredible.
A violent weekend in Chicago left at least 11 people dead and 62 others wounded in shootings across the city, according to police.

Amid the bloodshed, authorities said six incidents on Sunday morning each wounded four or more people at one time.

Those shootings, which all took place over the course of less than seven hours, killed 3 people and injured 28 more, officials said.

Those group incidents, according to police, occurred as follows:

At around 12:02 a.m., one man and three teenagers were shot in the 1600 block of South Avers Avenue in the citys Lawndale neighborhood, officials said. They were at a block party when two people fired shots into the crowd from inside a white Chevrolet Impala before fleeing the scene, according to police. Authorities said a 13-year-old boy was shot twice in the right arm, a 16-year-old boy was shot in the buttocks and a 17-year-old girl suffered graze wounds to the arm and knee. All were taken to Mount Sinai Medical Center in stable condition, officials said, while a 25-year-old man shot in the left leg was taken to Stroger Hospital in stable.

Roughly 30 minutes later, six teenagers were among eight people wounded in a shooting in the Gresham neighborhood, according to police. The shooting took place at around 12:39 a.m. in the 1300 block of West 76th Street, officials said. All eight victims were standing in the courtyard of a building when several male offenders approached on foot and opened fire, officials said. A 17-year-old girl was shot in the left knee, another 17-year-old girl was shot in the left leg, while a 14-year-old girl and a 19-year-old woman were both shot in their left hands, officials said. A 21-year-old woman and a 19-year-old man were both shot in their left legs, according to police, who said an 18-year-old man was shot in the buttocks and a 35-year-old man suffered a graze wound to the head as well. All of the victims were taken to area hospitals in stable condition, officials said.

Authorities said four people  including one innocent bystander  were shot at around 12:50 a.m. in the West Humboldt Park neighborhood. The shooting took place in the 900 block of North Karlov Avenue, according to police, who said two unknown offenders opened fire from inside a black Cadillac, striking three people who returned fire. That caused the car to crash, officials said, and the offenders fled. Three of the victims were a 30-year-old woman who was shot in the left calf, a 29-year-old man who suffered a graze wound to the chest and a 30-year-old man shot in the right ankle and left calf, officials said. The fourth victim was a 43-year-old man who was shot in the thigh, according to police, who said he was caught in the crossfire as he walked down the street. Authorities said all four victims were taken to Stroger Hospital in good condition.

A teenage girl was killed in a shooting that left five other people  including an 11-year-old boy  wounded in the Lawndale neighborhood just after 2:30 a.m., according to police. Authorities said 17-year-old Jahnae Patterson was part of a group standing on the sidewalk in the 1300 block of South Millard Avenue when two male offenders approached on foot and opened fire, shooting her in the face. She was pronounced dead on the scene, officials said. A 21-year-old woman was shot in the right arm and the back and taken in critical condition to Mount Sinai Medical Center, according to police. Two young boys, ages 11 and 14, were both shot in the left leg and taken to Mount Sinai in stable condition, authorities said. A 17-year-old boy was taken to Rush University Medical Center in stable condition with a gunshot wound to the right leg, according to police, and a 17-year-old girl was shot in the right arm and taken to Stroger Hospital in stable condition.

Another fatal shooting took place at approximately 4:15 a.m. in the North Austin neighborhood, according to police. The shooting took place in the 1600 block of North LeClaire Avenue, officials said. A 19-year-old man was shot in the back of the head and pronounced dead on the scene, according to police. The Cook County Medical Examiners office identified him as Donald Norris, who lived in the 1500 block of South Harding Avenue in Lawndale. In that same shooting, a 37-year-old man was shot in the right calf and a 21-year-old man was shot in the upper right thigh, according to police, who said they were both taken to West Suburban Medical Center in stable condition. An unknown male was also shot, officials said, and taken to Stroger Hospital.

Five people were shot, one fatally, at approximately 6:50 a.m. in the South Austin neighborhood, according to police. The shooting took placed in the first block of North LeClaire Avenue, according to police, who said a 32-year-old man died after being shot four times: once on each side of his body and twice on the left side of his neck. He was taken to Stroger Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 7:16 a.m., according to the Cook County Medical Examiners office, who identified him as Charles Green, of the 300 block of North Mayfield Avenue. A 30-year-old man was also in critical condition with a gunshot wound to the back of the head, according to police, and a 27-year-old woman was in stable condition after being shot twice in the left arm and left wrist. A 21-year-old woman sustained a graze wound to the left knee and was taken to West Suburban Medical Center where she was treated and released, officials said. From the same shooting, a 34-year-old man also walked into Stroger Hospital with a gunshot wound to the lower left knee, and was listed in good condition, according to police.

No one is in custody in connection with any of these shootings, according to police, who continue to investigate.
What to Know A man was killed after opening fire on police officers who he mistook for home intruders.

Police say they were serving a search warrant for the man's 20-year-old grandson who was wanted for a weapons violation.

The grandfather's wife, who is also the mother-in-law of a city officer, as well as a responding SWAT officer were hurt in the shootout.

A Philadelphia grandfather mistook SWAT officers for home intruders and opened fire on police as they entered his home Monday morning to serve a search warrant for the man's grandson, the city's police commissioner said.

The confusion led to a shootout that ended with three people shot, police said. The homeowner was ultimately killed, his wife hurt and a veteran officer was left with a bullet lodged in his jaw.



"The simplest way to put this is this is an all-out absolute tragedy," Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross said during a Monday afternoon news conference.



The ordeal began around 6 a.m. at a home along the 4800 block of Knox Street. Police were serving a search warrant for a 20-year-old man wanted on a weapons violation. He is the grandson of the homeowner, police said.

The search stemmed from a social media post allegedly showing the man with a handgun, investigators said.



The arriving officers knocked on the door of the home and announced their presence at least three times indicating they had a warrant, Ross said.

They entered the front door into a vestibule and were about to enter the home when the homeowner, identified as 59-year-old Ricardo Giddings, fired four shots, police said. The officers returned fire, striking Giddings in the chest and legs.

Investigators say Giddings fired four rounds while officers fired five.



Ross said police later learned through interviews that Giddings didn't understand that police were entering his home.



"He went about the business of protecting his home not knowing it was the police at the door that he was firing upon," Ross said.

Ross said it's likely Giddings didn't hear the officers announce that they were serving a warrant because the television was on at the time.

"Neighbors said they heard it but apparently he [the homeowner] didn't hear it," Ross said.

Prior to the shooting, the homeowner told his wife, 67-year-old Joann Giddings, to flee from the house, police said. A ricocheted pellet round from a shotgun fired by police struck her in the abdomen. Joann Giddings, who Ross said is the mother-in-law of a city police officer, also suffered back injuries after she fell while fleeing a second-floor window.

"We aren't dealing with a bunch of criminals firing on police," Ross said. "It touches us in a lot of different ways."

Joann Giddings was listed in stable condition at Albert Einstein Medical Center. The couple's daughter, LaQuisha Johnson, told NBC10 she wants answers.



"We want to figure out what went wrong here," Johnson said. "My dad is dead and my mom is in the hospital and fighting for her life."



One of the responding officers, 49-year-old Jaison Potts, was hit in the face by a bullet during the shootout.

A 20-year veteran of the force, Potts was rushed to Temple University Hospital where he was listed in critical condition. Ross said Potts, despite bleeding heavily, was able to walk into the emergency room on his own.

"We do believe that he is going to survive despite the critical nature of his injuries," Ross said. "He's got a ways to go."

Potts, who suffered "very serious" facial injuries, including a broken jaw, will undergo surgery on Tuesday.



Ross called Potts a "very tough guy." The bullet stopped near Potts' ear and remains lodged in his jaw.

Philadelphia Police Department

Potts attended Cheltenham High School in neighboring Montgomery County and is a married father of three. His family was by his side at the hospital, Ross said.

Ross said it is not common for SWAT team officers to open fire during assignments.

"These high risk warrants are just that. They're high risk for obvious reasons," Ross said. "SWAT serves approximately 300 of them every year without incident."

The last time a member of the SWAT team was engaged in a shootout was in 2015 while serving a warrant and the officer was hit on his bulletproof vest.

"It's very rare because of the manner that they do their surveillance of the properties as well as their entries that they are even compelled to discharge their weapons," Ross said.



Potts was supposed to start vacation at the end of the day, Mayor Jim Kenney said. The veteran officer instead spent his day sedated while undergoing tests at the hospital.

Police say the 20-year-old man who they were initially looking for later turned himself in and was questioned. He was later released however and no charges were filed. Police only found a weapon belonging to Ricardo Giddings during the search.



Police continue to investigate the incident.



Philadelphia police SWAT Officer Jaison Potts and two civilians were shot as gunfire rang out as police served a warrant on a 20-year-old man in the city's Germantown neighborhood Monday morning.

Correction: Police said during a press conference that the woman injured is 67-years-old. NBC10 confirmed with family members and records that the woman is 59.



Correction: This story has been updated to reflect the spelling of Officer Jaison Potts' first name.
What to Know Paul Manafort's fraud trial resumed Monday afternoon.

Rick Gates, considered Manafort's "right-hand man," testified that he and Manafort engaged in criminal activity together.

His testimony will continue when court resumes Tuesday morning.

The government's star witness in the financial fraud trial of Paul Manafort testified Monday that he embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from the former Trump campaign chairman  and told jurors that he and Manafort committed crimes together.

Rick Gates, described by witnesses as Manafort's "right-hand man," calmly related his criminal conduct as prosecutors looked to provide jurors with damning testimony from a co-conspirator they say carried out an elaborate offshore tax-evasion and fraud scheme on behalf of his former boss.

Gates, who is expected to continue testifying for several hours Tuesday, has been regarded as a crucial witness for the government ever since he pleaded guilty this year to two felony charges and agreed to cooperate in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into possible ties between Russia and the Trump campaign.

The courtroom testimony brought Gates face-to-face with Manafort, his longtime boss and fellow Trump campaign aide, for the first time since his plea deal. His testimony, given in short, clipped answers as Manafort rarely broke his gaze from the witness stand, follows that of vendors who detailed Manafort's luxurious spending and financial professionals who told jurors how the defendant hid millions of dollars in offshore accounts.

Gates told jurors that he siphoned off the money without Manafort's knowledge by filing false expense reports. He also admitted to concealing millions of dollars in foreign bank accounts on Manafort's behalf and to falsifying documents to help his former boss obtain millions of dollars more in bank loans.

"We didn't report the income or the foreign bank accounts," Gates told jurors, noting that he knew he and Manafort were committing crimes each time.

Under questioning from prosecutors, Gates read off the names of more than a dozen shell companies he and Manafort set up in Cyprus, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and the United Kingdom to stash the proceeds of Ukrainian political consulting work.

Asked whether the money in the accounts was Manafort's income, Gates said, "it was."

Gates said he repeatedly lied to conceal the bank accounts and, at Manafort's direction, he would classify money that came in as either a loan or income to reduce Manafort's tax burden.

Gates, who also served in a senior role in Donald Trump's presidential campaign, is expected to face aggressive cross-examination once prosecutors are finished questioning him. Manafort's defense signaled early in the trial that they intend to blame Gates for any illegal conduct and to cast him as a liar and embezzler who can't be trusted.

Gates pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge and to lying to investigators as part of his plea agreement. He is awaiting sentencing, and he told jurors Monday that in exchange for his truthful testimony prosecutors agreed not to oppose his attorney's request for probation at a later date. That recommendation is nonbinding as a federal judge will ultimately decide his sentence. He faces 57 to 71 months in prison under federal sentencing guidelines.

The criminal case has nothing to do with either man's work for the Trump campaign and there's been no discussion during the trial about whether the Trump campaign coordinated with Russia  the central question Mueller's team has tried to answer. But Trump has shown interest in the proceedings, tweeting support for Manafort and suggesting he had been treated worse than gangster Al Capone.

U.S. District Judge T.S. Ellis III, who repeatedly interrupted prosecutors last week as they tried to present evidence about Manafort's lavish life such as $900,000 in expensive suits and a $15,000 ostrich jacket, clashed again with prosecutor Greg Andres on Monday when Andres delved into the status and identities of the Eastern Europeans who made payments to Manafort.

Ellis said all that's relevant is that Manafort was paid and whether he hid the income from the IRS.

"It doesn't matter whether these are good people, bad people, oligarchs, Mafia. ... You don't need to throw mud at these people," Ellis said.

Andres said he was entitled to show the jury why Manafort was getting tens of millions of dollars in payments.

"When we try to describe the work, Your Honor stops us and tell us to move on," he said.

Prosecutors say Manafort used those companies to stash millions of dollars from his Ukrainian consulting work, proceeds he omitted year-after-year from his income tax returns. Later, they say, when that income dwindled, Manafort launched a different scheme, shoring up his struggling finances by using doctored documents to obtain millions more in bank loans.

All told, prosecutors allege that Manafort failed to report a "significant percentage" of the more than $60 million they say he received from Ukrainians. They aimed to show jurors how that money flowed from more than a dozen shell companies used to stash the income in Cyprus.

Last week, a tax preparer named Cindy Laporta admitted that she helped disguise $900,000 in foreign income as a loan in order to reduce Manafort's tax burden. Laporta, who testified under an immunity deal with the government, acknowledged that she agreed under pressure from Gates to alter a tax document for one of Manafort's businesses.

Under cross-examination Monday, defense attorney Kevin Downing pressed Laporta on the complexities of Manafort's finances as he worked to paint a picture of a political consultant who left the details to professionals and, in particular, to Gates.

Downing also accused Gates of embezzling "millions," a higher amount than Gates later admitted to in his testimony.

Laporta said she had grown to distrust the information Gates was providing her, though she didn't know about the embezzlement.

But she said she believed Manafort was directing Gates' efforts to disguise loans and conceal income, noting that Manafort was copied on her email traffic with Gates.

"In most instances, it was clear that Mr. Manafort knew what was going on," she said.

Associated Press writers Eric Tucker and Stephen Braun contributed to this report.
A reward is being offered for information on a fire at the old Ansonia Copper and Brass Building in Waterbury.

Fire broke out at the old factory at 725 Bank St. on July 30. The fire was so large it took firefighters hours to put it out and at one point the smoke plume was so large it appeared on Live First Alert Doppler Radar.

Waterbury Mayor Neil O'Leary said at the time that several other similar fires were the result of arson, and that he suspected that was the cause.

A large fire is burning in Waterbury and the flames can be seen from miles away. Video credit: Anthony Covino

The Connecticut Arson Tip Award Program is offering a $2,500 reward for information that leads to an arrest or conviction in the case.

The building where the fire started was vacant for years. There were previous fires at the property, including a machine fire when the building housed a manufacturing company.

The smoke plume from the huge fire in Waterbury is being picked up by Live First Alert Doppler Radar. #nbcct pic.twitter.com/1l8fTCopOg  Ryan Hanrahan (@ryanhanrahan) July 31, 2018

Anyone with information is urged to call the Connecticut Arson Hotline at 1-800-84ARSON or the Waterbury Police Detective Bureau at 203-574-6941.
A cat seeking refuge from a raging Northern California wildfire found a fine-feathered friend as it awaited rescue from the heat and flames.

The Grass Valley Fire Department said Thursday a cat and chicken it rescued over the weekend are recovering from burns with the help of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The feline and hen were found Saturday huddling together on the front porch of a home in Redding during a firefighters' patrol through a fire-damaged neighborhood.

The unlikely duo made it to safety riding in the same crate. The animals are expected to fully recover from their burn wounds while in the custody of SPCA.

The fire in and around Redding has claimed six lives, including two firefighters, and destroyed more than 1,000 homes.
The Alzheimers Association North Central Texas Chapter is hosting its fourth annual summer caregiver seminar, Positive Approach to Dementia Care at Any Stage, Tuesday, August 28 at the New River Fellowship Church from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.



By 2020, it is estimated that 400,000 Texans will be diagnosed with Alzheimers disease. To increase community awareness and education about the disease, the Alzheimers Association hosts a special half day event for family caregivers.The seminar combines informative presentations with time to interact with local businesses that serve the needs of people living with disease and those who care for them.



Dementia care educator, Beth Nolan, Ph.D., will give a presentation on how changes in the brain cause cognitive challenges associated with different forms of dementia. She will also provide strategies for interpreting and responding to verbal and behavioral messages in order to connect, communicate and care at different stages of the disease. Nolan is a mentor and trainer at Positive Approach to Care (PAC), an organization whose mission is to support and engage people experiencing changes in brain function. This seminar also gives participants the opportunity to learn to focus on optimizing current abilities rather than what has been lost.



There is no charge for family caregivers and light refreshments will be provided during the late-morning break.



Summer Caregiver Seminar 2018

Presented by The Alzheimers Association

North Central Texas Chapter

Tuesday, August 28

9:00 A.M.  1:30 P.M.

New River Fellowship Church

3252 I-20 Frontage Rd

Hudson Oaks, TX 76087

Suggested $10 donation at the door



For more information or to register, call 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org/northcentraltexas.



About the Alzheimers Association

The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Their mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. The vision of the Alzheimers Association is a world without Alzheimer's. For more information, visit www.alz.org.






Drivers License Offices in booming North Texas are struggling to keep up with growing population, even after promised improvements in the wake of NBC 5 Investigates reports 6 years ago.



The Texas Department of Public Safety, which issues Driver Licenses opened larger Mega offices a few years ago to improve service but those offices are very busy.

There were two lines of people out the door of the Carrollton Mega Office on Highway 121 Monday.

The longer, slower line was for people unable to obtain an online appointment for service.

Bonnie Rodriguez stood in that line with her daughter under an umbrella for shelter from the hot August sun Monday.

Weve got to get it done today. Im going out of town and shes got to drive to school tomorrow, Rodriguez said.

The Carrollton location is one of five Mega offices in North Texas. Others are in Garland, Southern Dallas, Grand Prairie and Fort Worth.

Rodriguez said she tried all of those other offices online before visiting the Carrollton location.

I checked all around. There were no appointments anywhere, no appointments, she said.

The faster line outside the Carrollton office was for people who had succeeded in getting one of the online appointments, but they still were kept outside the building until seats became available at the inside waiting area.

Karen Kusumakar who moved from New York City said she obtained a 2pm appointment at 9am Monday.

I got here at 1:45, no parking. People are parking up on the grass, she said. Ive never seen it structured this way. Nor have I ever seen online inline, which I actually think is a great idea.

People with online appointments in Carrollton still waited around an hour after arriving to get a driver license Monday. Those without appointments waited much longer, much of the time outside.

Esther Killingsworth of Fort Worth visited three different DPS offices Monday to complete her business.

She started at a smaller Fort Worth office and found a crowded parking lot, then tried the Hurst DPS office where there were no cars in the lot.

Im like, Oh wow, theres no line, she said.

It turned out the Hurst office was closed Monday because of electrical problems and no air conditioning.

A sign directed her to the Fort Worth Mega Office on Brentwood Stair Road where the parking lot was also jammed.

I dont think its my lucky day at all, she said.

The frustration of obtaining a Texas Driver License is not new.

Six years ago, NBC 5 Investigates found that the DPS had a novel way in which to report wait times at the agencys North Texas license centers.

At the time, the DPS did not count the amount of time people waited in long lines outside, classifying that as only the pre-wait period.

It was only after a person managed to get inside the door that the clock started ticking to determine an official wait time.

DPS Director Steve McCraw said at the time that the long waits were unexcusableit has to change.

McCraw also said there was a plan to fix the problem, one that has since resulted in construction of the five mega-licensing centers in North Texas, with two more in other parts of the state.

Asked at the time how long it would take for the long lines to shrink, the DPS director said: If its more than two years, you are going to be talking to somebody else, okay, because Im not a very patient person.

McCraw, who is still on the job, could not be reached for comment on this story.

Instead, a spokesperson issued a statement saying the states fast-growing population is the reason the longs lines still havent gone away, despite the new mega-centers.

The department will continue to work with the legislature to obtain the resources needed to meet this growing demand, and to provide quality customer service that Texans expect and deserve, the statement added.

In the meantime, the DPS suggested people can often avoid long waits and still get what they need by going online or by phone.

Many renewals can be obtained without an in person visit.
A 31-year-old music manager and father from North Texas has been identified as the man who was killed in Monday morning's shooting on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, according to his business partner.



Darryl Stinnette of Mesquite, and two other men were riding in an SUV heading from San Francisco to Oakland about 2:20 a.m. when a vehicle pulled up next to them and someone opened fire, according to the CHP.

Stinette, the driver of the SUV, died at the scene, and another man was shot and wounded. A third man suffered injuries in a subsequent collision.



Stinnette, an aspiring rapper known as Lil' Pooh, was in the Bay Area over the weekend for a few club appearances, including an appearance at a club in San Francisco before the shooting took place, according to his business partner, Michael Bartolomeo.



Bartolomeo said their other business partner was also in the vehicle at the time of the shooting and told him there were no altercations or disputes during or after the club appearance in San Francisco. He added that the suspect vehicle randomly drove up next to them and someone fired shots.



"According to my business partner who was also in the car, he had no idea who it was or why they were targeted or what it was about," Bartolomeo said.



Stinnette, who leaves behind multiple children, including a newborn, is being described as a good guy who helped young artists trying to break into the rap scene, according to Bartolomeo.



"He was truly one of the good guys," Bartolomeo said. "He was not about violence or anything like that. That's what really makes it so difficult, cause we know it had nothing to do with anything that he had to do."



Authorities are still trying to track down the suspect or suspects in the case. The suspect vehicle was described as a silver or gray vehicle.



The shooting and subsequent investigation shut down all eastbound lanes of the bridge for multiple hours early Monday, causing a traffic nightmare on the major traffic artery in the Bay Area.



The Associated Press contributed to this report.


Nine months after the birth of her daughter Cali, Delfina Mota vividly recalls the horrible pain of her C-section delivery, without anesthesia.

"Once I felt it, I was just screaming like, 'Stop. I can feel it. I can feel it. And after that, I'm pretty sure I passed out from the pain," Mota told NBC Investigates in her first public interview about baby Calis birth.

Mota and Cali's father, her fiance Paul Iheanachor, are suing Tri-City Medical Center in Oceanside, their surgeon and their anesthesiologist for pain and suffering and other civil wrongdoing.

Their lawsuit claims Mota was forced to go without proper and normal anesthesia for her emergency C-section because the anesthesiologist on-call could not be found and did not respond to numerous pages from hospital staff.

It was like something out of a horror movie, Mota recalled. You can't imagine. I would rather have delivered her vaginally, with no medicine, than being cut with a knife."

Tri-City Medical Center did not respond to a request for comment from NBC 7 Investigates, when we broke this story last week.

But when other media outlets, including Time and People magazines, the Huffington Post and Daily Caller, and TV outlets from Florida to Canada, picked up the story, Tri-City fired back.

A spokesperson for the Medical Center at first declined to comment directly on the allegations, but noted that Patient safety and quality are the utmost priorities for Tri-City Medical Center.

Then, late last Friday, August 3, as the story kept spreading, Tri-City released another statement.

While we normally dont comment on pending litigation, the patients public discussion of the care she received during her emergency C-section compels us to address this outrageous allegation, said Aaron Byzak, Tri-Citys Chief Government and External Affairs Officer. The patient was administered anesthesia prior to surgery."

Byzak declined to elaborate on that statement, and would not explain what type of anesthesia Mota received. But Motas attorney told NBC 7 Investigates his clients medical records confirm the only pain medication Mota received was an epidural, given to her while she prepared for a normal, vaginal birth, hours before her emergency C-section.

"I fully anticipated this defense, because that's what they have to do, said attorney Norman Finkelstein. They have to come up with something to defend their actions, or in this case, their inactions."

But Finkelstein said medical experts agree that epidurals do not provide appropriate pain relief for C-sections.

"It's not going to have any impact on the area of the body that's being operated on, Finkelstein explained. He said that although Mota did get an epidural to numb her vaginal area, it was worthless because it provided no pain relief for the abdominal C-section. Unfortunately for my client, the (epidural) had no effect on the part of the body that they were operating on.

The anesthesiologist, Dr. David Seif, responded through a representative of the Anesthesia Service Medical Group, of which Seif is a member.

The group, on behalf of Dr. Seif, is confident that anesthesia services would have been available, and were available (for Mota), the groups representative wrote in an email to NBC 7 Investigates. Additionally, the group and Dr. Seif are confident that the care provided by Dr. Seif was appropriate under the circumstances.

The surgeon, Dr. Sandra Lopez, did not reply to a request for comment about the lawsuit.
What's long, on the thinner side, and rocks a pointy end?

You might quickly answer "a pencil," which would be correct, of course. Moreover, pencils might be on your mind, given that early August is all about stocking up on supplies for the school year.

And yet?

Another long, thin-ish, and pointy-end'd icon makes an appearance come the eighth month of the year 'round Southern California, and while you can't write with it, and it won't erase mistakes in the traditional sense, it can erase any sad memories you have of especially unspicy meals.

It's the green chile, a pepper pod that is pointy and long and highly flavorable when roasted. And roasting season is revving up around our region for the iconic pod from two states over, the Hatch chile.

There's no need to head for the lower part of the Land of Enchantment for this hot fruit, however; a number of places around our region are and will be roasting New Mexico's most famous export over the coming weeks.

Next up on the roasting roster this kapow-packing produce? It's Bristol Farms, which has released its 2018 chile roasting schedule.

Day number one for 2018 is Saturday, Aug. 11, and the first spots to receive the fiery goodness will be Bristol Farms La Jolla, as well as Lazy Acres Long Beach and Lazy Acres Encinitas.

A few more select Saturdays will see more roast-tastic pop-ups pop up in the parking lots of Bristol Farms and Lazy Acres, with Manhattan Beach, South Pasadena, and Santa Monica all to come.

Final day? Saturday, Sept. 8, but be not blue: Roasted green chile freezes well, which means you'll have some on hand for your wintertime posoles and rellenos, if you don't devour it all by the first day of fall.

The full roster of places, times, and details is roasting online now; eye the calendar for the caliente spot nearest you.
What to Know The resolution cited President Donald Trump's "disturbing treatment of women and other actions" in calling for the star's removal

The decision will ultimately be up to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which has never removed a star from the Walk of Fame

Trump's star is now boarded over

Politicians are calling for President Donald Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame to be removed after it was recently vandalized.

West Hollywood Mayor John Duran and Councilwoman Lindsey Horvath offered a resolution Monday night urging the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to remove the president's star "due to his disturbing treatment of women and other actions that do not meet the shared values of the City of West Hollywood, the region, state, and country."



The City Council voted, and the mayor posted on Twitter that they passed the resolution requesting that the chamber remove the star. Duran used the hashtags "#horcruxdestroyed," "#bellicose," "#belligerent," "#unAmericanvalues" and "#MakeAmericaintoAmericaAgain."

The decision will ultimately be up to the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.

The chamber has never removed a marker from the Walk of Fame and turned down a 2015 request to remove comedian Bill Cosby's star. Trump was honored with his star back in 2007, when he was hosting NBC's "The Apprentice."

In regard to the most recent vandalism, a Glendale man accused of smashing Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame with a pickaxe was charged Monday with felony vandalism.

Austin Mikel Clay, 24, is set to be arraigned downtown Aug. 15. If convicted as charged, he could face up to three years in jail, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

At about 3:30 a.m. July 25, police were alerted to the vandalism on Hollywood Boulevard near Highland Avenue.

After bashing through the plaque, the man called police and advised he had vandalized Trump's star, the Los Angeles Times reported. He said, "See you soon," before leaving the scene, Lt. Karen Leong of the Los Angeles Police Department's Hollywood Division told the newspaper.

About an hour later, officials say he walked up to Beverly Hills police headquarters, identified himself and said he wanted to turn himself in.

It was the second time Trump's star has been vandalized in less than two years. In October 2016 a man dressed as a construction worker smashed the star with a pickaxe and sledgehammer. James Otis pleaded no contest to felony vandalism in February 2017 and was sentenced to three years probation, 20 days of community service and agreed to pay $4,400 for the damage.

Following the vandalism, the CEO of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, which administers the Walk of Fame, urged would-be vandals to vote if they wanted to make a political statement.

"The Hollywood Walk of Fame is an institution celebrating the positive contributions of the inductees," said president and CEO Leron Gubler.

"When people are unhappy with one of our honorees, we would hope that they would project their anger in more positive ways than to vandalize a California State landmark. Our democracy is based on respect for the law. People can make a difference by voting and not destroying public property."

Trump's star is currently boarded over.


What to Know Danielle Teeples, 40, was arrested Sunday on a charge of exposure of sexual organs

An arrest report said officers and a witness saw Teeples completely nude in the park while numerous people were around

A Florida woman who was high on drugs and thought she had a giant spider on her was arrested after she ran completely naked through a public park, authorities said.

Danielle Teeples, 40, was arrested Sunday on a charge of exposure of sexual organs after the incident at Bartlett Park in St. Petersburg, according to an arrest report.

The report said officers and a witness saw Teeples completely nude in the park while numerous people were around. She was acting erratically, rubbing herself and running between two trees, the report said.

Traffic was "heavy and numerous vehicles were slowing and honking at the defendant as they saw her behavior," the report said.

Teeples admitted to officers that she had used crack cocaine, spice and crystal meth recently, according to the report. She said she believed a giant spider was on her so she took her clothes off to get away from it, the report said.

Police booked Teeples into jail. Attorney information wasn't available.
What to Know Authorities released a transcript of Nikolas Cruz' statement to an investigator shortly after the Stoneman Douglas shooting

Attorneys for the confessed killer, Nikolas Cruz, argued none of the material should be released

Two and half hours after the suspected Stoneman Douglas High shooter was detained, video recorders began rolling at the Broward Sheriffs Office where Nikolas Cruz was taken.

For the next 11 hours, until shortly after 5 the next morning, Cruz would confess his crimes, but also reveal much more  allegedly telling a detective that a demon in his head told him to burn, kill and destroy.

While Florida law prohibits the "substance of a confession" being released until it is presented at trial or the case is closed, the state attorneys office on Monday released a large portion of the statement that a judge determined did not constitute the substance of a confession.

Read The Full Cruz Statement Below:

Attorneys for Cruz argued none of the material should be released, saying it would prejudice the public and make it impossible for the accused killer to get a fair trial. He is charged with 17 counts of murder and 17 of attempted murder and the state has announced it will seek the death penalty.

But, on July 26, Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherer ruled the defendant failed to demonstrate that preventing public disclosure of statement is necessary to prevent a serious and imminent threat to the administration of justice, adding a high-profile case does not in itself give the defendant the right to close the flow of information to the public.

She gave the defense 10 days to appeal her ruling, but it did not.

NBC 6s Jamie Guirola looks into the details of Nikolas Cruzs statements to the police made hours after the massacre.

So on Monday, the state attorney complied with public records requests from NBC 6 and others and released written transcripts of the statement, with the redactions ordered by the judge. The office said it is still preparing to release the video of the statement.

Media organizations asked a judge to order public release of much of Florida school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruzs statement to investigators.

While the transcript is now public, the judge noted, that does not mean any or all of it will ultimately be admitted into evidence in a trial. Those decisions will be made as the case proceeds.

Cruz was detained at 3:41 p.m. on Feb. 14, nearly 75 minutes after he walked out of the 1200 Building at Stoneman Douglas High, leaving 17 people dead or dying in his wake a mile and half away. He complained of trouble breathing and nausea and was briefly taken to a hospital, where his clothing was seized as evidence.

He then was walked into the Broward Sheriffs Office, where Det. John Curcio began interrogating him.

At first, Curcio did not read Cruz his Miranda rights or caution him about his right to refuse questioning, the defense claims, adding in a court motion, "Instead, Det. Curcio, in several different ways, encourages the defendant to speak."

At one point, when Curcio left the room to get water, Cruz exclaimed "Kill me. Just f---ing kill me," according to the transcript.

Florida high school massacre suspect Nikolas Cruz allegedly told a woman months before the shooting that he might attack the school and that he might even kill her  but she never called police. Giovanna Cantones statement was one of many made public Wednesday as part of the prosecution of 19-year-old Cruz in the Valentines Day shooting at Marjory Stoneman...

Curcio, asking about Cruz life history, tells him, "I only can talk to you to hear from you what was going on with you," the defense quoted him as saying in its motion to block release of the statement. The questioning, it says, was intended to assist prosecutors to establish premeditation and to undermine the potential of the defense of insanity, the defense stated.

After completing that goal, Curcio gives Cruz his Miranda rights and begins questioning him about the substance of the crime, the defense said.

Cruz's statements about the shooting are blacked out, but the transcript is otherwise wide-ranging, dealing with the death of Cruz's parents, his penchant for killing animals, his former girlfriend, his brother, guns, suicide attempts and, especially, the voice in his head. He told Curcio the voice appeared after his father died about 15 years ago but got worse after his mother died of pneumonia in November.

Cruz described the voice as a male, about his age, and said the only person he ever told about it was his brother.

Curcio asked what the voice told him.

"Burn. Kill. Destroy," Cruz responded.

"Burn, kill, destroy what?" the detective asked.

"Anything," Cruz responded.

He told Curcio that he had to fight the voice from taking over, that it was always bad. Curcio questioned that, asking how it could always be bad if Cruz had held down a job at a discount store for two years.

"The voice is in here," he said, apparently pointing to his head. "And then it's me. It's just regular me trying to be a good person." Curcio said everyone has a good and bad side.

"Do they really?" Cruz said.

He said the voice tried to get him to shoot people at a park a week earlier. Or maybe it was three. Cruz couldn't remember exactly, but he didn't want to do it. Curcio asked why he didn't.

"I ... I don't know," he said.

Cruz told Curcio he wanted to join the Army to be a Ranger but he failed the written exam "because I was stupid."

Cruz said he bought the AR-15 allegedly used in the shooting a year before because it was "cool looking" and "to feel safe." He said he bought other guns but fired them only twice, both times into the cement floor of his mother's garage.

"It didn't bounce all over hell and creation?" Curcio asked. No, Cruz replied, saying the bullets embedded in the concrete.

Cruz said he tried to kill himself with an over-the-counter pain reliever after his mom died and years earlier had tried to drink himself to death because he was lonely.

"You don't have a lot of friends?" Curcio asked.

"No." Cruz said he goes fishing with the demon.

At other times, Curcio makes "irrelevant, prejudicial and inadmissible" statements or commentary, according to the defense.

At some point, Cruz requests the presence of a psychologist, but Curcio did not give him the opportunity to have one present, the defense stated.

The redacted text on a report about accused Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz was made visible. NBC6 Reporter Erika Glover explains.

At the end of the interrogation, the detective let Cruz's 18-year-old brother into the room.

"You  your  people think you're a monster now," Zachary Cruz told him.

"A monster?" Cruz responded.

"You're not acting like yourself. Like, why? Like, we've ... this is not who you are. Like, come on. Why did you do this? This is ... don't even laugh at me," Zachary Cruz said.

"I'm sorry, dude," Nikolas Cruz replied.

"The result is a discussion, and video presentation thereof, that is likely to be misconstrued by the public-at-large, resulting in widespread prejudice against the defendant that will prevent the seating of a fair and impartial jury," the defense argued.

It is not yet clear whether that section of the statement the defense found objectionable was redacted by the judge.
The Miami-Dade County schools and fire departments are investigating after photos of three employees wearing anti-President Donald Trump shirts surfaced on social media.

A photo posted July 18 on Miami-Dade County Public Schools employee Brian Chappell's Facebook page shows Chappell and firefighters Faye Davis and Ray Williams wearing t-shirts that say "F--- Trump and f--- you for voting for him."

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue confirmed it was investigating whether the photo followed the department's social media policy after someone reported the post.

"I remind you all to use good judgement when posting on social media," said Omar Blanco, president of the Miami-Dade Fire Union. "We are brothers and sisters in the fire service and whether we agree or disagree, let's do so respectfully."\

Fire Rescue chief Dave Downey also ordered all employees to review the department's digital and social media policy in a memo released on Friday.

Downey also reminded employees the social media guidelines applies whether they are on or off-duty.

Miami-Dade Schools also released a statement saying it is investigating the post.

"While we respect our employee's right to self-expression, we have a responsibility as a public institution to review this issue and ensure it aligns with our ethical standards," read a statement.

NBC 6 has reached out to Chappell, Davis and Williams.

The Miami-Dade County schools and fire departments are investigating after photos of three employees wearing anti-President Donald Trump shirts surfaced on social media.

A photo posted July 18 on Miami-Dade County Public Schools employee Brian Chappell's Facebook page shows Chappell and firefighters Faye Davis and Ray Williams wearing t-shirts that say "F--- Trump and f--- you for voting for him."

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue confirmed it was investigating whether the photo followed the department's social media policy after someone reported the post.

"I remind you all to use good judgment when posting on social media," said Omar Blanco, president of the Miami-Dade Fire Union. "We are brothers and sisters in the fire service and whether we agree or disagree, let's do so respectfully."

Fire Rescue chief Dave Downey ordered all employees to review the department's digital and social media policy in a memo released on Friday.

Downey also reminded employees the social media guidelines apply whether they are on or off-duty.

Miami-Dade Schools also released a statement saying it is investigating the post.

"While we respect our employee's right to self-expression, we have a responsibility as a public institution to review this issue and ensure it aligns with our ethical standards," read a statement.

NBC 6 has reached out to Chappell, Davis and Williams for comment.
The Food and Drug Administration has stopped a radiology center in Sunrise from performing more mammograms until they correct a problem.

The FDA ordered Lakes Radiology II on Oakland Park Boulevard to send letters to patients who had mammograms there between mid-2016 through April of this year.

In those letters, the center states, "there is a serious concern about the quality of mammography that our facility performed between May 16, 2016 and April 9, 2018."

As a result, the FDA ordered it to stop performing mammograms as of April 19 because it "did not meet the clinical image quality standards established by our facility's accreditation body."

The owner of Lakes Radiology II declined requests from NBC 6 Responds for an interview but via email told us the problem started in April when the center tried to add a second mammography machine and the FDA denied it accreditation due to technical problems. It's based on what's called the Mammography Quality Standards Act or MQSA.

"It's something that Congress came up with in the 1990's to make sure that facilities that practice mammography do it under a certain quality standard," said Dr. Monica Yepes, head of radiology at the University of Miami's Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. "So, what happens is we get tested regularly to make sure we are meeting those standards."

Dr. Yepes couldn't talk specifically about the Lakes Radiology II case, but explained all centers are checked to make sure physicians are qualified to read mammograms and that the exams are performed correctly.

"Are we radiating the patients adequately? Not over-radiating them or under-radiating them because either way we might be missing information or hurting the patient if there's too much radiation," said Dr. Yepes.

The center states that the letters don't necessarily mean that test results are wrong but that most patients will need to have their mammograms reviewed to determine if a repeat mammogram is needed.

Dr. Yepes recommended that patients who get a letter should request their records - including the report and CD images.

"If your last mammogram was over a year ago, just start by getting an appointment at another facility and what you can do is take your images and use it for comparisons," said Dr. Yepes. "If your mammogram was less than a year ago, then the idea would be to have your studies reviewed at a facility that is accredited."

An accredited center must have a certificate with something called an American College of Radiology (ACR) seal. The doctor recommends patients also ask if the radiologists who interpret mammograms have a subspecialty in breast imaging and that they go to a center where radiologists spend at least half their time interpreting breast imaging.

"Other things to look at is the facility where you are having your breast imaging a facility that also offers the other modalities in addition to mammography such as ultrasound and MRI and do they also do biopsies," said Dr. Yepes.

Lakes Radiology II offered those services in the past but since they lost accreditation they say they are "working very closely with the FDA to correct all issues" and " are expecting to finish the process in the upcoming weeks so we can re-open the mammography department to the public."

The center also says it will provide patients their records at no charge.

Also, recently, the FDA revoked the accreditation of another center in Deerfield Beach because they failed to send the required letters to patients.

Lakes Radiology has another center in Miami Lakes that has no problems and still offers mammography, ultrasounds and MRIs.

Experts recommend women should get mammograms annually starting at age 40 as long as they are at normal risk for breast cancer.
What to Know An ACS worker in Kips Bay is accused of slamming a 6-year-old boy in his care into a door frame and cutting his face, police say

Jacques Edwards, who also tried to put the boy into a file cabinet, is charged with assault and endangering the welfare of a child, cops say

News 4 learned Edwards served 28 years behind bars for second-degree murder and was paroled in 2010

An Administration for Children's Services worker who served nearly three decades for murder is accused of attacking a 6-year-old boy in his care.



Jacques Edwards, 55, is charged with assault and endangering the welfare of a child after he allegedly slammed the child into a door frame and tried to put him inside a file cabinet, according to the NYPD.

Police said the boy suffered a cut to the left side of his face after the attack at the Nicholas Scoppetta Childrens Center on First Avenue in Kips Bay. There was no word on the boys condition early Tuesday.

News 4 learned Edwards served 28 years behind bars for second-degree murder and was paroled in 2010. He has been working for ACS for the past four years.

An ACS spokesperson said the agency is doing a full investigation of the hiring process in place when Edwards was hired.

"Our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of New York Citys children," the spokesperson said. "As soon as this employees actions came to our attention we immediately removed him from duty and alerted law enforcement.

In a press conference Tuesday afternoon, ACS Commissioner David Hansell echoed similar sentiments.

"Within ACS we are reviewing the circumstances that lead this individuals hiring here some years ago," he said. "But I can tell you that today we have hiring protocols in place that are much stricter in regards to hiring and vetting staff for positions involving working with children and working with young people."

Hansell also said the agency uses the guidelines of the state's Justice Center, in addition to their own review of job candidates.

"Under those reviews, I don't believe this person would have been hired today," he said.
What to Know A cleaning crew found a dead fetus in a bathroom on an American Airlines plane in a hangar at LaGuardia Airport Tuesday

The plane had arrived at the Queens hub from North Carolina Monday night; photos showed Port Authority cops surround the jet Tuesday

The Queens district attorney's office is investigating; American Airlines referred questions to law enforcement

A cleaning crew found a fetus in the toilet of a plane lavatory as the aircraft sat in a hangar at LaGuardia Airport Tuesday, law enforcement sources familiar with the case tell News 4.



The grisly discovery was made before 7 a.m. aboard an American Airlines flight that had landed at the Queens hub Monday night from Charlotte, North Carolina. Sources say the fetus appears to have been about 5 to 6 months old, but that's preliminary. The medical examiner's office will conduct an autopsy.



[NATL] Images of America's 'Creepiest' Abandoned Mall in Missouri

The OCME can confirm were investigating what we believe to be a human fetus found deceased on an airplane," a statement from the city medical examiner's office said. "We will release determination when investigation is complete.



American's flight tracker showed the plane, flight 1942, left Charlotte at 8:56 p.m. and arrived at LaGuardia's Terminal B at 10:44 p.m. Monday. Photos from the scene showed Port Authority cops surround the jet on a tarmac Tuesday after it apparently was removed from the hangar for further investigation.



[NATL-DC] These Images of the Abandoned Owings Mills Mall Will Give You Chills

American Airlines referred all questions to law enforcement, telling News 4, "As we continue to learn more about this tragic and sensitive situation, we are actively cooperating with law enforcement in its investigation."



The Queens district attorney's office says it is also investigating. The medical examiner's office will conduct an autopsy to determine how the fetus died.

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What to Know A girl allegedly kidnapped from a Georgia day care by her father has been located safely in Brooklyn

Officials in Georgia issued a be-on-the-lookout bulletin in New York for a father who allegedly kidnapped his daughter from a daycare center

The father, who has no custodial rights, allegedly texted the girl's mother hours after a daycare switch saying they were on a bus to NY

A 4-year-old girl allegedly kidnapped from her daycare in Georgia by her father, who does not have custody, has been located safely in New York City, authorities say.



Police in DeKalb County, where Jimai Hill was taken Aug. 3, issued a be-on-the-lookout bulletin for the girl's father, Randall Hill, who they say was wanted for interference with custody and kidnapping.

Alert bystanders on a Brooklyn street spotted Randall Hill Tuesday evening and pointed him out to officers; he was taken into custody without incident. A short time later, Jimai was found on a train nearby with a woman. She was checked out by EMS and taken into the custody of child protective services.

The girl's mother has been contacted and advised that she's safe. Authorities are arranging for the girl to be reunited with her mother.



Authorities said that Randall Hill, who has no custodial rights to his daughter, and the girl's uncle went to her daycare at some point last Friday. Randall Hill was denied any access to the child because he is not listed as an approved caregiver at the daycare center. The uncle, however, was listed as an approved caregiver with the facility.



The uncle checked Jimai Hill out of the facility and then allegedly handed her over to her father, authorities say. The father then told the daycare workers Jimai Hill would not be returning to the center, police say.



Hours later, the girl's mother got a text from Randall Hill saying he had their daughter and was on a bus to New York City, possibly to Brooklyn, according to authorities.

A DeKalb County Police Department spokeswoman said earlier that according to Hill's Facebook posts, he may be married and living with his wife in the Brooklyn area.
What to Know 3 men, including an MTA bus driver, are facing numerous charges in connection to the alleged trafficking of narcotics, authorities say

According to prosecutors, the alleged cocaine-trafficking scheme involved the drugs disguised as children's gifts

The men face numerous charges, including criminal possession of a controlled substance in the first and third degrees

Three men, including an MTA bus driver, are facing numerous charges in connection to the alleged trafficking of narcotics disguised as childrens gifts, authorities announced Monday.

Christopher Kelly, 51, Salvatore Capece, 63, and Robert Woolridge, 38, are scheduled to be arraigned Monday in Manhattan. All three men are charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the first and third degrees and criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree. Kelly and Capece are also facing charges of the criminal sale of a controlled substance in the first degree.

According to prosecutors, the arrests are a result of the alleged sale of two kilograms of cocaine nearing $74,300 outside a nail salon located on Avenue T in Mill Basin, Brooklyn, where Kelly worked as a manager.

On June 19, 2018, at around 5 p.m., authorities say agents and officers conducting surveillance outside the nail salon allegedly observed Kelly, from Brooklyn, retrieve a package wrapped in Minnie Mouse gift wrap from the trunk of an orange Dodge Challenger registered to Capece, of Effort, Pennsylvania. Allegedly, Kelly subsequently handed the package to Woolridge, who in turn gave Kelly a Burberry shopping bag. Authorities say Kelly drove off with the gift-wrapped package in an Audi.

According to prosecutors, that evening, agents and officers with Strike Force Group Z-41 observed Capeci exit the nail salon. At approximately 7:30 p.m., both Capece and Kelly arrived at Kellys residence on Avenue T, several blocks from the nail salon. Kelly allegedly carried the same Burberry shopping bag and a second package wrapped in pink Minnie Mouse gift wrap.

Agents obtained a court authorized search warrant for both the residence and the Dodge Challenger. Upon entering the living room, prosecutors say agents found the gift wrapped package had been partially opened, exposing two kilograms of suspected cocaine.

The Burberry shopping bag was also allegedly in the living room and contained about $74,300 cash. A search of the trunk of the Dodge Challenger yielded a kilo press used in packaging narcotics, authorities say.

Shortly before 7 a.m. on June 28, 2018, agents stopped Woolridge in a vehicle near his residence in the Throgs Neck neighborhood of the Bronx as he was on his way to his job as an MTA bus driver, prosecutors say, adding that Woolridge permitted the agents to enter his residence and retrieve a UPS bag from a kitchen cabinet.

Inside the bag were allegedly two kilograms of alleged cocaine worth up to $75,000, as well as scales and packaging materials.

Final laboratory test results on the narcotics are pending, authorities say.

Brazen conduct, flashy cars and a soft spot for Minnie Mouse were the trademarks of the cocaine trafficking operation, Special Narcotics Prosecutor Bridget G. Brennan said when describing the narcotics trafficking scheme.

The indictments are a result of an investigation by the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor and the New York Strike Force, a crime-fighting unit comprising federal, state and local law enforcement agencies supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) and the New York/New Jersey High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).

This case gives a new meaning to looking a gift horse in the mouth, DEA Special Agent in Charge James Hunt said in a statement. Shortly after giving and receiving a gift of cocaine, the defendants were arrested for their scrupulous drug trafficking scheme.

It is not immediately clear if the men retained attorneys to comment on the charges.
National Night Out is Tuesday, when communities around the country will join their local police departments in games, food, and other activities designed to build better relationships.

National Night Out was founded in 1984 by Matt Peskin, who was then a volunteer for the Lower Merion Community Watch program.

He noticed there wasn't a way for community watch groups to connect with one another. The National Association of Town Watch, which Peskin founded in 1981, introduced National Night Out in August 1984.

The first Night Out involved 2.5 million neighbors across 400 communities in 23 states, according to the NATW. Now, as many as 38 million people participate.

The event is designed to heighten crime-prevention awareness, generate support for local anticrime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are fighting back, according to organizers.

Participating in the festivities will be NBA standout Shaquille ONeal and Ring founder Jamie Siminoff. ONeal and Siminoff will join National Night Out founder Matt Peskin in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, for their community celebration that begins at 6 p.m.



Here are a few towns celebrating National Night Out:

Pennsylvania

Bucks County

Middletown Township Police Department  parking lot  3 Municipal Way, Langhorne, PA 19047  6 to 8 p.m.

Montgomery County

Wynnewood  Wynnewood Shopping Center, 50 Wynnewood Rd, Wynnewood, PA 19096  6 to 9 p.m.



Montgomery Township Police Department  Target Parking Lot: 125 Witchwood Drive, North Wales, PA 19454  6 to 9 p.m.

Chester County

West Chester Police Department  400 Montgomery Ave., West Chester PA  6 p.m.

Philadelphia County

Philadelphia 3rd Police District  Snyder Plaza, E Snyder Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148  5 to 8 p.m.

New Jersey

Atlantic City County

Atlantic City  Pop Lloyd Stadium, 1200 N. Dr. Martin L. King Jr. Blvd.  5 to 8 p.m.

Burlington County

Medford Township Police Department  Henderson High School  Medford Freedom Park 86 Union St, Medford, NJ 08055  6 to 9 p.m.

Cape May

Cape May Police Department  714 Beach Ave. Cape May, NJ 08204  6 to 9 p.m.

Delaware

New Castle County

Wilmington - Helen Chambers Park West 6th and North Madison Streets Wilmington, Delaware 19801  6 to 8:30 p.m.

Newark  Academy Street between Main Street and Delaware Avenue, 6 to 9 p.m.

Many more communities will be participating in this event. Reach out to your local police department for more information about National Night Out.
The Philadelphia District Attorneys Office will no longer charge cases related to buying small amounts of cannabis for personal consumption, according to a memo circulated internally Monday and obtained exclusively by NBC10.

Nearly 300 such cases have already been declined by the office since January, according to the memo.

Small quantities of marijuana is defined as anything under 30 grams or roughly an ounce. (Here's a visual guide of varying amounts of pot created by Leafly, a cannabis trade publication.)

The office will still pursue intent to distribute cases, according to prosecutors.

Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner ran on a campaign promise to, among other things, end mass incarceration. Mondays memo marks another step toward that promise, spokesman Ben Waxman said.

This was seen as something that was a critical component of  focusing on serious cases that pose a threat to public safety, Waxman said. The hope is that people will not needlessly have interactions with the criminal justice system."

Cannabis remains a Schedule 1 substance  along with heroin and LSD  at the federal level. Philadelphia decriminalized cannabis in 2014 and Pennsylvania debuted its medical marijuana program in 2017. An ACLU report issued last year indicated that despite steps toward legalization, communities of color are still disproportionately targeted by law enforcement for drug possession arrests.

Prosecutors from New York City and Brooklyn recently announced similar policy changes. Meanwhile, New Jersey is inching closer to legalizing adult use of cannabis.

Krasners approach builds on four-year-old rules implemented by Mayor Michael Nutter and the previous District Attorney, Seth Williams. Initially introduced by current Mayor Jim Kenney when he was a city councilman, they gave Philadelphia police the power to issue citations for marijuana possession. That essentially made pot possession punishable by a fine.

Were getting to the six month mark of the [Krasner] administration and weve made some public promises of how were going to handle certain cases, Waxman said.
With peanut butter, white chocolate chips and about 1,000 milligrams of THC, The Elvis was quite the delicious and powerful marijuana treat for some.

The 400-calorie cookie came with a warning: This is a high potency medical product for experienced consumers only. If you are new to edible cannabis, chose a lower potency product.

The Elvis is one of hundreds of cannabis products that can no longer be legally sold, since California implemented new testing, packaging and dosing standards on July 1.

For edibles, the state now imposes a limit of 10 milligrams of THC per serving and 100 milligrams of THC per package.

State law requires all products be lab-tested so the consumer is aware of the amount they are ingesting, according to doctors and scientists.

The role of labs, not just our lab, but all labs is so important to keep people safe and let folks enjoy the product or use it for medical purposes with the confidence that theyre not going to get sick because of something theyre ingesting, said Robert Brodnick, the chief scientific officer at Pharm Labs.

This new law requires all cannabis products, including marijuana flowers, undergo extensive lab testing for pesticides, pathogens and potency, which industry experts say is forcing distributors to wait long periods of time for products to be tested and approved.

Its left some consumers unable to buy some of their favorite products, retailers say.

San Diegos licensed marijuana retailers said they are also experiencing shortages on some strains of flower cannabis because of backlogs in labs capable of testing the marijuana.

With 31 labs licensed to test products for distributors serving more than 400 licensed dispensaries in the state, it has been very difficult for labs and dispensaries to keep up with demand, both retailers and scientists confirmed.

Thats why we saw most of our brands not ready to be on shelves on July 1, said Wayne Scherer, who operates a collective in San Ysidro. That first week, it was very difficult to keep our shelves stocked. There was a day where we had very few options for flowers.

None of the licensed dispensaries in San Diego said theyve completely run out of product, but selection is still limited a month after the new law went into effect.

Its not back up to par yet, and some of the major brands people are accustomed to buying still arent available yet, Scherer said.

Scherer said customers tend to blame the retailers for the industry-wide issue.

Consumers, in general, they dont really understand whats going on, he said. We can explain it to them as best as possible, but really they end up blaming the retailers for the situation, so we bear the brunt of it when a consumer cant find a product that theyre depending on.

Green Lion Partners is a Denver-based company focused on early stage development for cannabis industry businesses.

President Jeffrey Zucker said the backlog could drive California sales of marijuana back to the black market, and punish companies for following all the states strict new guidelines for products.

The lack of testing facility licenses that have been given out combined with the backlog at the few existing ones are keeping good products off the shelves in California, Zucker said.

Zucker said the state needs to speed the process up and the state needs to license more labs.

Should this backlog continue, theres the potential to push sales back to the illegal market something to which Californias exorbitantly high taxes are also contributing, Zucker said.

San Diegos PharmLabs is one of only 31 marijuana testing labs in a state with more than 400 licensed retailers.

Located in the Midway district, PharmLabs says business is booming with about five times the amount of work and clients. At PharmLabs, the staff doing the testing are all scientists with expertise in chemistry and microbiology. They use the same equipment, including robotics, thats used in the food industry and to test pharmaceuticals.

(The new state regulations) has forced us to grow our teams at least two-fold here, and our clients are coming to us with a lot of business, said Brodnick of PharmLabs. We are very, very busy but happy to be busy.

Brodnick said its very important for the consumers safety that products, especially edibles, are tested for potency. But, he admits there have been some growing pains with the new regulations.

Prior to these regulations, you could mix whatever you want in whatever you want, label it and sell it. So, its kind of a mixed bag of what you get, Brodnick said. Testing is really, really important. Its one of the most important issues in cannabis, and its one we need tight control over to eliminate some of that stigma.

However, Scherer said even the most potent edibles were not shown to cause long-term negative health impacts for the consumer, and he believes there could be some flexibility from the state on the testing requirements as the new laws are implemented and more labs become licensed.

He said the industry has not developed uniform standards for testing yet, which has caused some labs to get different results on the same products.

Right now, its just creating chaos in the supply chain without really providing the reassurances theyre claiming to offer, Scherer said.

Brodnick said there are international standards for analytical testing in cannabis. A spokeswoman for PharmLabs said the lab is internationally accredited, which is a requirement by the state of California under the new regulations.

It helps bring more credibility to the industry because the accreditation is difficult to achieve. Laboratories did not previously have the accreditation requirement to operate in the medical cannabis space, the spokeswoman said.

Brodnick said it's better to be safe and accurate than fast, just to please the retail shops.

What we need to see is more very good laboratories, Brodnick said. A lot of people got into this business not knowing what they were doing, and theres been an evolution. The investment does need to be made into good scientists, quality systems and doing business the right way.

In the meantime, what happens to all those marijuana cookies?

Industry experts say products with more than the legal dosage will have to be destroyed if they cannot be converted or repackaged to a lower dosage product.
Two National City councilmembers urging constituents to remain patient as investigators work to find answers regarding the in-custody death of Earl McNeil.

McNeil, 40, died 16 days after being detained by officers and his death has sparked multiple disruptive protests at City Council meetings staged by family and members and community activists demanding to see police body camera footage of the arrest incident.

Councilmembers Alejandra Sotelo-Solis and Mona Rios spoke Monday hours after releasing an updated statement on the investigation and said they're not 'choosing sides,' but rather standing by the facts and the truth. They say they trust the investigation and are willing to meet with the McNeil family after it's done.

"We feel just like them that we need answers to questions, but we also want to make sure that this is done through a thorough and full investigation that will bring back the facts," Councilmember Rios said.

Both family members and the police agree that McNeil experienced medical distress while in the custody of the police. What is unknown is what led to the need for McNeil to be treated by paramedics.

On June 11, McNeil was removed from life support at the UCSD Medical Center and died.

His family and several members of the community have held multiple protests demanding to see bodycam video from the morning of May 26.

At 5:27 a.m. that morning, McNeil used a phone outside the police department.

He "told the dispatcher that he had a warrant, was high, and wanted to kill Jesus," police officials said.

In an official statement released on June 13, National City police said that when officers came out, McNeil was "agitated, made irrational statements, and acted paranoid."

Officers said they found a controlled substance on McNeil and attempted to arrest him.

Officers restrained McNeil using a WRAP. As they were driving him to the county jail, officials said, McNeil showed distress. Paramedics were called and while he was being treated by paramedics, McNeil stopped breathing, police said.

Family members and community activists have protested at the last four city council meetings, which has led to nearly a dozen arrests.

Advocates for the McNeil family are demanding to see the medical examiners report on his death -- and to see the body-worn camera footage while he was detained.

"I don't trust National City and their process and I don't trust that two politicians who are representatives of all people, are really representing all people," Tasha Williamson, an Advocate for McNeil Family, said.

Chief Manny Rodriguez spoke with NBC 7 last week and said shutting down the meetings disrupts the business of the city.

"If you really want to have a dialogue about change, then you have that dialogue," Rodriguez said. "These people are coming in not to produce change but rather for chaos."



National City Mayor Ron Morrison said protesters used their First Amendment right to speak at a city council meeting.

"Then it became time for other people to use their First Amendment right and they said, 'No, we're the only ones that get a First Amendment right.' There's where the problem comes up," Morrison said.
John Hinckley, the would-be assassin who shot and wounded President Ronald Reagan, has asked for his unconditional release, according to new court filings from the United States Attorneys Office for D.C. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for mid-December in Washington, D.C.

Hinckley was transferred from a mental health hospital in 2016, where hed served a 35-year commitment, to serve time in "convalescent leave" at his mothers home in Williamsburg, Virginia. The leave requires Hinckley regularly report to court officials about his treatment and support.

The court records reviewed by News4 show Hinckley made a motion for "unconditional release" from his commitment in an April 30 hearing before a D.C. judge. The filing from prosecutors said Hinckley cited a code in D.C. law allowing people to seek release or changes in the conditions of their custody.

Hinckleys defense attorneys have not responded to multiple requests for comment from News4 about his efforts to seek release.

In their filings to the judge in Hinckleys case, federal prosecutors acknowledge they hired an examiner to review Hinckleys "present mental condition and whether or not he would pose a danger to himself or others if released under the conditions proposed by officials with the Department of Behavioral Health."

They also notified court officials an expert needs to conduct further psychological testing and interviews. The expert would bring audio recording devices for the examination, according to court filings.

A hearing on the conditions of Hinckleys release is scheduled for mid-December, but the schedule for proceedings in the case remains somewhat unclear. According to court filings, the D.C. Department of Behavioral Health did not provide court officials with a copy of a risk assessment of Hinckley as required under court order in late July.

In May, News4 first reported delays in the completion of risk assessments in Hinckleys case. A federal judge cited unforeseen scheduling delays beyond the parties and the hospitals control.

The Department of Behavioral Health did not immediately return requests for comment.

As part of Hinckleys 2016 release, the court ordered he have no contact with the Reagan family or with actress Jodie Foster, whom Hinckley said he was trying to impress when he shot the president in D.C. in March 1981. The court also barred Hinckley and his family from speaking with media.

Hinckley was 25 when he opened fire outside of the Washington Hilton, hitting Reagan in the chest  a moment captured by news crews. Press Secretary James Brady also was shot in the head. A police officer and a Secret Service agent also were wounded.

Hinckley was found not guilty by reason of insanity and ordered to live at St. Elizabeths Hospital for treatment. Over the years, the court loosened restrictions on him.
As the Annapolis community begins to heal from the slaying of five newspaper staffers, the Anne Arundel County police chief is looking back at what authorities believe led up to the Capital Gazette shooting and making changes within his department.

"If we're not trying to get better after every bad thing that happens, we're not doing our job," Chief Timothy Altomare told the News4 I-Team.

Altomare said hes in the process of hiring an officer with the sole responsibility of monitoring social media for potential warning signs of violence  a decision he initially made following the school shooting in Parkland, Florida, in February.

He is also reviewing his departments handling of suspect Jarrod Ramos in 2013.

Thats when The Capital newspaper first contacted police about Ramos, a Laurel man with a long-simmering grudge against the publication that began when one of its journalists wrote about his 2011 harassment case.

The detective looking into Ramoss behavior  and what many describe as concerning tweets  determined Ramos was not a threat to employees at the time, noting that he had not attempted to enter the Capital building nor had he sent direct threatening correspondence. The newspaper declined to pursue charges.

Altomare, who was a captain at the time of the investigation, said he still trusts that detectives judgment. The detective has since retired.

Threat assessment experts told the I-Team its possible Ramos was not a threat back then, pointing out five years passed before police say Ramos opened fire inside the Capital Gazette. Ramos has pleaded not guilty, and his public defender declined to comment.

Altomare said the department is reviewing its policies, particularly as they relate to the way officers conduct threat investigations.

Threat assessment experts say its important to interview people close to someone suspected of threatening behavior, who might be preparing to carry out an act of violence and that the decision to interview the suspect should be made on a case-by-case basis as it carries the risk of escalating the problem.

The Anne Arundel detective did not appear to do either, according to the 2013 report, with Altomare saying that interviewing Ramos "might have put that stick in the beehive."

Still, "you'll see us maybe tweak that [policy] to say officers need to go clap eyes on somebody and talk to them," Altomare told the I-Team.

The decision comes as many law enforcement agencies are adapting to policing in the age of social media. Experts say a detectives primary job is to identify and solve crimes that have already happened  not to predict whether a suspect could pose a danger in the future  but that law enforcement officers are increasingly asked to do both.

"If you leave it solely up to the police, their job is to enforce the law. If they don't find evidence of a law being broken, there's not much they can do," said Matthew Doherty, the senior vice president of Threat and Violence Risk Management for consulting firm Hillard Heintze and former head of the National Threat Assessment Center for the U.S. Secret Service.

But police generally do need more extensive training on how to conduct threat investigations, he said, adding that it's unfair and potentially dangerous to ask law enforcement to predict future behavior on their own.

"They can't go it alone," he said. "They have to have the full cooperation of the judicial system, social workers, mental health community."

Doherty is among those experts who caution against "hindsight bias" in the wake of the Capital Gazette shooting but said the case does underscore the need for follow-through.

In the years following the Anne Arundel detectives investigation, Ramos revealed what Doherty called "pre-attack behaviors," including several references to the 2015 attack on the satirical French newspaper Charlie Hebdo. In a Sept. 2014 tweet, Ramos' Twitter account shared a Capital article on mass shootings, commenting that it couldn't happen at the newspaper's old address because there was "no one left there to shoot."

"The one thing that people have to keep in mind about threat assessment, you can close a case but it needs to be monitored," Doherty said.

Altomare praised the way local law enforcement responded to the June 28 shooting but expressed frustration with the challenges in staying ahead of potential acts of violence, both in terms of resources and limits with the law.

"The United States of America puts very clear limits on the power of the police to do things like this," he said, later adding, "People have privacy rights."

He said hed like to see a strengthening of Maryland law as it deals with threats, which he said must now be "extremely graphic, pointed" and "narrow" before officers can make an arrest. He plans to approach his fellow police chiefs about possible legislation that would give officers more latitude to investigate behavior victims perceive as threatening and get ahead of acts of violence before they happen.

"Weve got to figure something out that balances peoples need for security and helps deal somehow with the problem, while respecting peoples civil liberties," the chief said.

In the meantime, he encourages people who feel threatened to report it to police and then to stay in touch with law enforcement if worrying behavior escalates. "We can't guarantee anyone's safety in this world. I wish I could," he said. "But tell us. We'll move heaven and earth to help you."

Reported by Jodie Fleischer, produced by Katie Leslie, and shot and edited by Jeff Piper.
Annapolis attorney Brennan McCarthy says he and his client endured years of online harassment from suspected Capital Gazette shooter Jarrod Ramos, but felt powerless to stop it.

Now, after police say Ramos gunned down five newspaper staffers, McCarthy says he wants Maryland legislators to give law enforcement greater authority to act on early warning signs, when investigating threats.

"There has to be something in place where you as a community can defend yourselves from a person that you know is a threat," McCarthy told the News4 I-Team.

McCarthy said he became the subject of Ramos rage after representing a woman the suspected gunman pleaded guilty to harassing in 2011. Ramos rhetoric worsened after The Capital newspaper wrote about the case, prompting the Laurel man to also lash out at journalists  as well as the judges who ruled against him  on Twitter for years.

"He would say that he wanted them to kill themselves, that they would be dripping in blood, that he would have his day," McCarthy told the I-Team. "We have to create a system where a person who is doing this much cyberbullying, this much cyberstalking, can be stopped."

McCarthy said he couldnt shut down the online vitriol because the tweets didnt meet the threshold for what Maryland law considers a threat. Ramos often used violent language and images of his targets online, but McCarthy said the tweets stopped short of communicating clear and direct threats.

Ramos "knew exactly what he was doing and he walked the line," McCarthy said, adding that Ramos bragged about studying the letter of the law.

McCarthy is now calling on the state legislature to broaden what Maryland considers a threat to include the senders general intent  instead of the direct, threatening language officers currently require to make an arrest.

His is one of many ideas under discussion as people search for ways to prevent future tragedies like the violence that unfolded June 28 in Annapolis, when police say Ramos, armed with a pump-action shotgun, barricaded the back door of the newsroom before firing his way through the glass doors in the front.

Ramos has pleaded not guilty, and his attorney, Anne Arundel public defender William Davis, declined comment.

McCarthys push has support from several law enforcement experts, including former Anne Arundel County Police Chief Kevin Davis. He joined the force in 2013, the same year the newspaper asked police to look into threatening tweets directed at its employees.

Records show an Anne Arundel detective examined Ramoss criminal history and checked that he had no registered weapons. But because Ramos hadnt attempted to enter the newspaper building or sent "direct threatening correspondence," the detective advised the newspaper he didnt consider Ramos a threat to employees, according to the incident report.

The newspaper opted against pursuing charges, the detective wrote, describing that as "putting a stick in a beehive."

According to Davis, Ramos hadnt crossed the threshold for what Maryland considers criminal behavior. "If we don't have the tools to help someone with that problem, we end up walking away, telling folks, Call us when something happens, and that's too late," he said.

Davis, who later served as the Baltimore police commissioner and now is a law enforcement consultant, said he also wants Maryland lawmakers to consider prohibiting anyone with a history of threats, harassment or stalking offenses from legally obtaining a gun.

Police say Ramos lawfully purchased a weapon in 2017.

His 2011 harassment conviction was later nullified through a legal procedure known as probation before judgment. He later got the records expunged.

Marisa Randazzo, a national threat assessment expert and former chief research psychologist for the U.S. Secret Service, said most people who commit mass shootings don't issue a direct threat but often reveal clues about their plans.

"That's where we can do a better job of changing those laws to allow law enforcement much greater latitude to investigate" warning signs, Randazzo said.

Giving police more flexibility to respond to allegations of threats will likely raise concerns over First Amendment rights, said Danielle Citron, a law professor at the University of Maryland who specializes in cyberstalking.

Citron notes Maryland already has laws prohibiting the cyberbullying of minors and said those laws sparked a debate over First Amendment rights. Attempts to expand that law failed earlier this year over concerns the changes were overly broad.

Any change in regulating communication on social media must address free speech protections, she said. "You can offend people, you can draw strong emotion, but its protected speech," she said.

But speech that causes  or is intended to cause  fear of immediate harm is not protected, she stressed.

Citron agrees with McCarthy that Maryland should change its definition of "electronic communication," which currently requires a message to be "sent" and "received" by someone. McCarthy wants the law to clearly include statements posted on social media websites such as Twitter or Facebook.

McCarthy, a family law and criminal defense attorney, said he also wants a solution that protects constitutional rights and cant be abused. He's hopeful the Maryland legislature can find that middle ground.

"The only positive thing that can come out of what happened is that we have to learn how to stop it, so that we dont repeat the same mistakes," he said.

Reported by Jodie Fleischer, produced by Katie Leslie, and shot and edited by Jeff Piper.
The search continues for a 12-year-old Virginia girl and her grandmother after the man suspected in their abduction was found in Pennsylvania.

Police issued an Amber Alert on Tuesday for 12-year-old Angie Caroline Rodriguez Rubio and a critically missing adult alert for her grandmother, Elizabeth Rodriguez Rubio, 48. Both are residents of Harrisonburg.

The man believed to have abducted them, Hareton Jaime Rodriguez-Sariol, was apprehended later in the day in Pennsylvania. Police say they also found a vehicle.

Rodriguez-Sariol has "a known history of infatuation" with the grandmother, according to police.

The girl and her grandmother were last seen about 1:30 p.m. Sunday in the 2800 block of South Main Street in Harrisonburg with Rodriguez-Sariol.

All three were believed to be traveling in his vehicle, which was involved in a vehicle fire on Interstate 66 in Warren County. Rodriguez-Sariol was seen at the two-mile marker on I-66 where the fire happened before police apprehended him.

Police had said they believed Rodriguez-Sariol was traveling north toward New York in white 2000 Volvo tractor trailer owned by AMG Express L.L.C., with Virginia license plate number 21739PZ.



Angie Caroline Rodriguez Rubio is 5 feet, 1 inch tall and weighs 112 pounds, police said. She has long, curly brown hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black blouse with flowers, black leggings-style pants and white sandals.

Elizabeth Rodriguez Rubio is 5 feet, 4 inches tall and weighs about 140 pounds. She has black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a burgundy blouse and a black skirt.

Anyone with information is asked to call 911, the Harrisonburg Police Department at 540-574-5050 or Virginia State Police at 800-822-4453. Police initially sent out a different phone number for the Harrisonburg Police Department.
What to Know New England Aquarium biologist began performing a necropsy Tuesday on a minke whale that washed up Sunday near Marshfield's Brant Rock.

The 27-foot whale was pinned against a jetty in shallow water at low tide and is believed to be the 38th dead minke whale documented.

Minke whales, the smallest of the large whale species found in New England waters, are often seen on whale watches in the region.

Officials at the New England Aquarium officials are trying to determine the cause of death for a whale that was found over the weekend on the South Shore of Massachusetts.

The 27-foot long minke whale was found dead Sunday morning near Marshfields Brant Rock.

The aquariums animal rescue team responded, and two biologists waded into the water from knee to waist deep to do an initial exam and take tissue samples.

Aquarium biologists then had to move the whale to do a necropsy, after it was pinned against a jetty in shallow water at low tide and along the very rocky, narrow shore.

On Tuesday, an entire team of researchers came out to further investigate the whales organs and musculature. Eventually, they will send samples to labs across the country.

Since January 2017, minke whales have been dying in unusually high numbers along the east coast of the United State from Maine to the Carolinas. Aquarium officials say this is believed to be the 38th dead minke whale that has been documented.

Weve got a lot of whales that are underweight in an area that for this species, has plenty of food, Tony LaCasse of the New England Aquarium said. Were wondering if there is something like a bacteria, a virus or a change in the environment thats causing this.

Aquarium officials say the adult female whale was thin but not emaciated. There was no visible gear from a possible entanglement, and there was no major trauma visible from a possible vessel strike.

The whale will be buried on site in Marshfield once the necropsy is complete. They expect results in the next few months.

Minke whales, the smallest of the large whale species found in New England waters, are often seen on whale watches in the region. They are grey, sleekly built and often can be identified by their white bellies and small white, pectoral fins, which are called minke mittens.

The minke whales are a protected species like all whales in U.S. waters, but their population is not considered either endangered or threatened.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the American federal oceans agency, has declared an unusual mortality event and is committing additional resources to try to learn what might be affecting the species.
The New Hampshire Attorney General's Office says a jury forewoman received a letter from a prison inmate she helped convict of murder asking why he was found guilty and offering evidence he says proves his innocence.

The juror contacted the attorney general's office July 6 about the letter that was mailed to her from Richard Moore. He was convicted of first-degree murder in May in the 2016 death of ex-girlfriend Joanne Boucher and sentenced to life without parole. Moore denied he was responsible for Boucher's death.

The three-page letter, hand-written by the 38-year-old, starts out, "I am just trying to find out what the thought process was in finding me guilty?

"I'm not mad at you or any of the jury, Im mad at my lawyers!!"

In the letter, Moore tries to convince the juror of his innocence, writing, "...if I killed Joanne on Friday, Sept. 2nd, 2016 and burnt her body on that day, how is it that I have witnesses and receipts proving where I was at the time this guy smells her body being burnt, then how can I do it?"

Massachusetts School of Law Dean Michael Coyne says jurors' names are often made public after the conclusion of a trial, but generally not their home addresses.

"We know there's too much information publicly available, so when you have a name it's relatively easy these days," Coyne said. "Prisoners are allowed access to both the law library and that would include access to the internet."

The attorney general's office said Monday that the letter can be interpreted as harassing or embarrassing the juror and attempting to influence her actions in future jury service. It requested a protective order against Moore preventing him from accessing juror contact information. The judge took it under advisement.

"I think its very unsettling from the juror's perspective," Coyne said.

Moore has requested new public defenders.
A Manchester, New Hampshire police sergeant has been placed on leave pending an internal investigation into allegations of misconduct.

Authorities said Sgt. Eric Knight, a 21-year veteran of the department, was placed on paid administrative leave July 16.

On July 12, Manchester Police Chief Carlo Capano said he was notified by the Hillsborough County Attorneys Office about potential officer misconduct.

Knight will remain on paid leave pending the outcome of the internal affairs and criminal investigations.

No further information, including the nature of the allegations, was available.

It's unclear if he has an attorney.
What to Know One person was seriously injured in a crash involving multiple vehicles on Interstate 495 in Andover, Massachusetts on Monday morning.

The accident involved a box truck that rolled over, according to state police.

All but 1 lane was shut down, and substantial traffic delays are expected.

One person was seriously injured Monday morning in a crash involving three vehicles on Interstate 495 in Andover, Massachusetts.

State police said a 68-year-old man from Ashland was traveling on I-495 north, just south of Interstate 93 at about 10:30 a.m., when the Hino box truck he was in somehow drifted into the right travel lane, striking a GMC Topkick truck driven by a 70-year-old Fitchburg man.

The driver of the Hino swerved to the left and struck a Toyota Camry driven by an 83-year-old Sturbridge woman, who was traveling north in the left travel lane. Authorities said the driver of the Hino then crossed back over the travel lanes before rolling over off the right side of the roadway.

The driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected and pinned underneath his truck.

The man, who has not been identified, was freed by firefighters and taken by medical helicopter to Boston Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries.

The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation by Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section.

No charges have been filed at this time.
A Norwich church has opened a new Community Money Advice Centre to offer debt advice, help with claiming benefits and financial education.

A Norwich church has opened a new Community Money Advice Centre to offer debt advice, help with claiming benefits and financial education.

Dig now, bloom later for Sheringham church Members of Lighthouse Community Church in Sheringham gathered one Sunday in October to plant daffodil bulbs at various locations in Sheringham as part of programme of activities aimed at serving the local community. Read more

Wild Church Norfolk produces a worship toolkit Charlie Houlder-Moat from the Diocese of Norwich Mission Enablers Team has written a Wild Church Toolkit to explore Christian spirituality and mission in the natural world. Read more

Job vacancies at Norfolk Christian retirement home Christian retirement home, Quebec Hall, near Dereham in Mid Norfolk, is looking to add three staff to enhance its team. Read more

Norwich speaker to revive the virtue of extraordinary hospitality After the disconnect of the pandemic, a Norwich church is hosting a talk to relaunch the practice of extraordinary hospitality. Read more

Norfolk homeless charity celebrates 10 years Emmaus Norfolk and Waveney is celebrating a decade of supporting people out of homelessness with a day of celebrations on Saturday October 30 at its Ditchingham Community and everyone is invited. Read more

Choral Society celebrates Creation in Cromer church The Sheringham and Cromer Choral Society will be performing Haydns Creation in Cromer Church next month, which will be their first concert performance for two years. Read more

Norwich church bells to ring out for climate At least half a dozen churches across Norwich will be taking part in a UK-wide initiative to sound their bells on the eve of the COP26 summit. Read more

Chance to talk about Norwich childcare careers Muddy Puddles Nursery, part of YMCA Norfolk, welcomed new nursery children in April 2021 and has since been rapidly expanding and gaining a brilliant reputation. It now needs to expand its childcare team. Read more

Science-faith outreach cash for Yarmouth church Great Yarmouth Minster is one of a number of churches nationally which has been awarded 10,000 to take part in a programme exploring the relationship between science and faith. Read more

Dippy says a blue light farewell to Norwich More than 200,000 people have visited Dippy at Norwich Cathedral and, ahead of the iconic dinosaurs final week, emergency services workers were last night treated to a special preview of the Dippy at Night farewell spectacle. Read more

Time for the church to take action? In his two previous articles, Nigel Fox asked if we had an adequate view of Jesus is, challenging some of our preconceptions, and then explained why he believes that Jesus is now angry with the world. His final column in this trilogy is a call to action. Read more

Music event at Revelation in Norwich Following last year's hugely successful and entertaining event the Trustees of Revelation will be holding another six hour 'MusicOn' marathon fundraising event at St Michael at Plea Church on Saturday October 30 between 10am - 4pm. Read more

Norfolk Churches receive Historic England grants Four Norfolk churches have received Historic England grants for repairs. Read more

'Visions of Salvation' Julian retreat The Friends of Julian of Norwich present 'Visions of Salvation', a two day in-person and online retreat taking place on October 29 and 30. Read more

A Kenyan farmer looks at climate change in Norwich screening To mark COP26, St Peter Mancroft Church in Norwich will host a screening of 'Thank you for the Rain' in partnership with Christian Aid. Read more

Norwich musician creates songs for loss of a twin brother Norwich Christian musician Ben Lawrence is producing an album which talks openly about the loss of his twin brother Dan to cancer and the hope he has since found. Here he shares the vision. Read more

Norwich dinner invitation for everyday people How many of your friends have walked in space, been a pop star, served time for murder, raised the dead? asks Norwich FGB branch president Barrie Lawrence. Read more
If youre reading this, youve got RF power. Power is a necessity for networking, allowing us to charge our batteries, connect millions of devices, communicate over long distances and keep our signals clear.

Dont believe me? Kill the power and see what happens to your network.

But with great RF power comes great responsibility. Power management is the art and science of optimizing input and output signals to maximize the efficiency and performance of RF devices  and its no easy feat. Each networking device has its own unique power requirements. Higher data rates often mean more power consumption and complexity, which can introduce losses that reduce reliability and increase cost. Low data rate devices, such as those supporting the Internet of Things (IoT), draw very little power in order to conserve every millisecond of precious battery power.

Then there is RF engineers arch nemesis  electrostatic discharge  which can all but fry a devices circuit board. Think of when you touch a doorknob after shuffling across the rug on a dry winter day. ZAP! 20,000 volts just left your body when you contacted the knob. While this may cause minor discomfort and the hair on your arm to stand up, it can cause major performance issues for devices, or even destroy sensitive electronic components.

Any old dunderhead can press a power button, but designing power management and RF devices requires specific expertise. Here are a few facts to help spark your interest.

High power RF

Berkeley Lab defines high power RF as a specialized field of engineering that deals with components and systems that operate at well above the audio frequency bands. High power RF applications include military and commercial radar, satellite communications and wireless infrastructure, like cellular base stations.

Engineers must amplify the power of these systems to transmit signals reliably over long distances and in harsh conditions. To do this, they use a power amplifier (PA).

See, not all networking jargon has to be complicated.

Like increasing the size of a .jpeg image file, power amplifiers increase the output of a networking device without corruption or distortion. However, increasing power also generates a significant amount of heat. Temperature management is one of the greatest challenges in high power RF. Engineers must meet stringent output requirements while keeping devices cool enough for reliable system operation.

For this reason, most high power RF devices are made with gallium arsenide (GaAs) or gallium nitride (GaN). Both compound semiconductors can handle the heat of power-hungry RF systems  but GaN is quickly becoming the technology of choice. GaN amplifiers have superior thermal characteristics and deliver higher output than legacy technologies, while reducing consumption by as much as 20 percent.

GaN is making real-time communication possible at higher frequencies. Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems are one example. These enable civilian air traffic control to identify aircraft and determine their range from the tower.

The next frontier for high power RF is millimeter wave (mmW): a band of extremely high frequencies between 30 GHz and 300 GHz, many of which are critical to the rollout of 5G wireless networks. At these frequencies, power management is a real challenge. Were already demonstrating products that operate from 37 to 40.5 GHz, with more to come.

Low power RF

Low power RF deals with low-bitrate, short-range wireless communication at lower frequencies. Applications include the IoT; smart home devices for energy efficiency, thermostats, HVAC, lighting control and home security; smart city devices for monitoring parking, traffic congestion, street lights and waste management; and the connected car.

Oh, and animated cat GIFs.

The key power management concern for all low power RF is battery life. For the IoT to be useful, sensors must last a long time. Homeowners and municipalities dont want to have to replace batteries in their devices every year, so engineers must design low power solutions to last a decade or more.

To complicate matters, power requirements are different for each low power network  and there are dozens of networks, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee 3.0, Bluetooth Low Energy, Thread, LTE Cat-M1 (LTE-M) and Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT).

Wi-Fi networks, for example, switch between 2.4GHz and 5GHz, depending on the size of the file theyre sending and the distance between the router/access point and the connecting device. The system draws more power at higher frequencies, and less power at lower frequencies. The router is hard-wired and therefore unaffected, but youll experience battery drain on the connected device, whether thats a smartphone, a laptop or some other device.

As a rule, the greater the distance between your device and the device youre connecting to, the greater the power thats required. Bluetooth sucks less power than Wi-Fi, which requires less power than cellular.

Bluetooth is like a powerlifter who has never done cardio, metaphorically speaking.

According to our partners at Keysight Technologies, Engineers must make accurate battery drain measurements and understand the power consumption patterns of these IoT devices to achieve the long battery life customers expect. Only then can we build a network that connects humans and their devices in powerful ways that simplify our lives.

The role of integration

All power levels benefit from integration. At the system level, combining multiple components into a single device minimizes power and efficiency losses, simplifies design and network deployment, and helps get everything from radars to routers to market faster. At the device level, interoperability between things at home, in our cities or on the factory floor maximizes productivity and energy savings.

Now thats powerful stuff.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 7)  National Anti-Poverty Commission Secretary Liza Maza said the government is just wasting time pursuing the murder charge against her and three former solons, and should prioritize other pressing issues in the country.

In a statement Monday, Maza called on the administration to swiftly end the case involving her and three other former lawmakers, former Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael "Paeng" Mariano, and former Bayan Muna House Representatives Satur Ocampo and Teddy Casino. Maza previously represented Gabriela Women's Party at the lower chamber.

"I call on my colleagues in the administration: let us put a stop to this waste of people's time and resources and bring this farce to a swift end," Maza said.

The ex-solons have been accused of killing three supporters of rival partylist Akbayan  particularly Carlito Bayudang, Jimmy Peralta, and Danny Felipe  in 2006.

Maza said the case is diverting attention from her duties as a government official, and stressed they are losing ground in the fight against poverty with the continued pursuit of a "baseless and wasteful" case.

"In my position as NAPC Secretary, my time and efforts would be better spent continuing to push for anti-poverty policy reforms and working with the basic sectors without having to deal with this case," she said.

Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said, as of now, there has not been any official discussion on the possible sacking of Maza as anti-poverty chief.

"She remains part of the administration," Roque said Tuesday.

Maza added that the revival of the charge, which was filed in 2006, was a form of "political persecution." Maza and her colleagues represented leftist political parties in the House.

The case was remanded to the City's Prosecutor's Office in 2008, after then-presiding judge Evelyn Turla of Palayan City, Nueva Ecija, said the conduct of preliminary investigation was not followed. The petitioners appealed to the Supreme Court, which said last year that the remand was improper and Turla should decide if there was probable cause to arrest them. On July 11, Turla issued arrest warrants for the four.

READ: Arrest order issued vs. anti-poverty chief Liza Maza, 3 ex-solons

Maza and her co-accused filed a motion for reconsideration last week but Turla inhibited from presiding the case.

Maza then called on the new judge to reverse the order issuing the warrant of their arrest.

"I call on the new judge handling this case, Judge Trece Wenceslao of the Cabanatuan City RTC, for an impartial, fair, and prompt resolution of our motion, the reversal of the order issuing the warrant of arrest, and the dismissal of this baseless and wasteful case," she said.

On July 31, Roque urged Maza to surrender to "respect the rule of law". Police chief Oscar Albayalde, also called for the ex-solons' surrender.

Mariano, however, said he refuses to surrender to authorities and maintained innocence over the murder charge.

READ: EXCLUSIVE: Mariano maintains innocence over murder allegation

A group of lawmakers raised a P1-million peso bounty for any information leading to the ex-solons' arrest. Maza, however, regarded this offer as a poor way of using money.

"It is unfortunate that you would choose to spend a vast sum of money this way, if it is even really there or from actual "concerned citizens," when so many of our people are struggling to put food on the table or pay for health, housing, and education," Maza argued.
BRIDGEPORT  A local computer programmer and his caregiver wife allegedly spent months torturing her disabled uncle before beating him to death and then staging his body in an attempt to fool police into believing the man had died from natural causes.

Five months after his wife, Tynisha Hall, was arrested on murder charges, Brent Whiteman was taken into custody and charged with murder, tampering with evidence, first-degree abuse and risk of injury to a child.

Dressed in a yellow polo shirt and khaki pants, Whiteman, 39, showed no emotion as he stood before Superior Court Judge Tracy Lee Dayton Monday afternoon.

This is as serious an offense as one can be charged with, the judge said in ordering Whiteman held in lieu of $1 million bond. She continued the case to Aug. 21.

Police attributed Whitemans arrest to the couples 12-year-old daughter who they said became finally fed up with keeping the familys dark secret and in May ran away from home. She later told a social worker she witnessed her mother and father abuse and torture the uncle before killing him, police said.

The uncle, 61-year-old Robert Jones, had been born with fetal alcohol syndrome, a condition caused by alcohol exposure while in the womb, that caused him to fall a lot. Jones had been cared for by Hall, a certified nursing assistant, and her husband in the couple's home on Dover Street.

On Feb. 8, emergency medical technicians responding to a call of a man suffering a heart attack found Jones sitting in a chair on the front porch, a burning cigarette between his fingers, hot ashes spilling into his lap. A half cup of coffee was by his side.

Police said Hall appeared upset and claimed she had checked on her uncle and found him unresponsive but medics found the mans body locked in rigor mortis indicating he had actually been dead for hours.

An autopsy later showed that Jones had almost no blood in his body and he had a large wound in the back of his head that appeared to have been cleaned up, police said. No blood was found on his clothing.

Police went back to examine the Dover Street house. When Police Detective Kimberly Biehn sprayed the bathroom with a re-agent used to find blood stains, police said the walls lit up with luminescence. Police said the spray revealed there was a blood splatter pattern that stretched from the ceiling to the floor  the dead man's blood.

The daughter told detectives that she witnessed her parents torture Jones on many occasions. She said her father once struck Jones in the hand with a hammer and they forced Jones to sleep on the bare floor and would feed him old food from the garbage can.

Police said the daughter told them that on the morning Jones died, she saw him crawling on the floor when her mother stepped hard on his head and then threw him into a tub of scalding water.

When she came home from school that day, Jones was lying on the floor, she said. Police said the girl told them her mother made her and her younger siblings help carry the mans body to the front porch where her mother dressed Jones, sat him in the chair with a lit cigarette and placed a cup of coffee next to him to fool the police. Hall then sprayed perfume around to hide the smell of death.
Harmful effects of substances secreted from red blood cells could explain the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes, the results of two new studies conducted at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden indicate.

It is a known fact that patients with diabetes are at considerable risk of developing cardiovascular diseases caused by organ-vessel damage that leads to heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, eye damage etc. Patients with diabetes also have a worse prognosis following a heart attack. However, the underlying causes of cardiovascular injury in diabetes are largely unknown, and there is no specific treatment to prevent it.

Research suggests that the red blood cells that transport oxygen to the body's tissues are more inclined to adhere to the vessel wall in diabetes. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have now studied how red blood cells change in type 2 diabetes and if they contribute to the cardiovascular injury occurring. Their results are presented in The Journal of the American College of Cardiology and JACC: Basic to Translational Science.

"We found that healthy blood vessels exposed to red blood cells from patients with type 2 diabetes suffer damage to their innermost cell layers, the endothelial cells," says Professor John Pernow at Karolinska Institutet's Department of Medicine in Solna who led both the studies. "This phenomenon, which is called endothelial dysfunction, appears early on in the development of diabetes-related vessel injury and greatly reduces the ability of the vessels to dilate while aggravating the inflammation."

Using an experimental model, the team was also able to show that red blood cells from diabetic patients or diabetic mice impair heart function and cause greater myocardial injury in the event of a heart attack than red blood cells from healthy individuals. Their detailed analyses of rat and human blood vessels also demonstrate that the harmful effects are caused by elevated activity of the enzyme arginase, reduced production of the vasodilating molecule nitric oxide and increased formation of harmful oxygen-derived free radicals in the red blood cells.

"We also found that treatment that targeted arginase or oxygen-derived free radicals normalised red blood cell function, which meant that their harmful effect on cardiovascular function could be prevented," explains Professor Pernow. "Our hope is that this knowledge will give rise to new treatments, specifically targeted at red blood cells, that prevent vascular injury and protect the heart in the event of heart attack in patients with type 2 diabetes."
NHS Supply Chain has emphasized the importance of conservative management for stress urinary incontinence, by making available an at-home biofeedback device for pelvic floor muscle training.

32% of women have urinary incontinence and their treatment costs the NHS 233 million annually. Stress urinary incontinence is the most common form of urinary incontinence, comprising 78% of cases. In 70% of stress urinary incontinence cases, symptoms can be reduced or eliminated by pelvic floor muscle training. However, 30% of women cant exercise their pelvic floor correctly with written or verbal instruction alone .

Usually retailing at 169.00, Elvie Trainer is now available through NHS Supply Chain at no cost to the patient. Elvie will be working with established NHS partner, Eurosurgical Ltd, to roll-out the relationship nationally. The user places the device inside her vagina and it connects to the app on the smartphone or tablet; she receives biofeedback through the app and is guided through a fun five-minute workout that has been designed with experts to give the pelvic floor musculature a full workout.

Comparing womens health physiotherapy supported by a biofeedback device to womens health physiotherapy alone, the biofeedback device helps improve patient technique and compliance resulting in an increase in success rates by 10%, a reduction in surgery rates by 50% and a reduction in cost by 35% - this equates to a saving of 424 per patient head in the first year. Research presented at the International Continence Society annual conference 2017 found that 80% of the women who used Elvie Trainer to treat a problem saw improvements and 98% did so in less than 6 weeks.

I am delighted that the Elvie Trainer is now available via the NHS Supply Chain. It is a beautiful product, simple to use and the immediate visual feedback directly to your phone screen can be extremely rewarding and motivating. It helps to make pelvic floor rehabilitation fun, which is essential in order to be maintained." Miss Clare Pacey, Specialist Womens Health Physiotherapist, Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK

The availability of Elvie Trainer through NHS Supply Chain represents the opportunity to reduce costs to the NHS and improve outcomes for patients. This is the first single-patient biofeedback for long-term use to be available to NHS patients, which will enable improved compliance between hospital visits and thereafter. Especially in light of recent events, were thrilled that the NHS is investing in tools to support conservative management of stress urinary incontinence and mild-moderate prolapse. Hannah Rose Thomson, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Health, Elvie

We are delighted to begin a new relationship with Elvie and look forward to a long partnership distributing the Elvie Trainer in the UK. This pelvic floor exercise tracker complements our range of medical devices offered to the modern womens healthcare provider enabling new standards and better cost savings to improve the quality of life. Peter Parker, Managing Director, Eurosurgical Ltd

Elvie have presented their research at eight conferences internationally, including at the International Continence Society annual conference 2017 on Elvie Trainer user improvement as measured by patient reported outcome measures. Elvie Trainer is available through hospitals and clinics in over ten countries and is recommended by over 1000 health professionals, including obstetricians and gynaecologists, womens health physiotherapists and midwives. Elvie has received more than 12 awards to date for innovation and design and Elvies founder and CEO, Tania Boler, was named as a Porter Magazine Woman of the Year 2016 and won Innovator of the Year at the FDM Everywoman in Technology Awards.
If you're having a heart attack and you're a woman, hope a female doctor greets you in the emergency room.

A review of nearly 582,000 heart attack cases over 19 years showed female patients had a significantly higher survival rate when a woman treated them in the ER, according to Seth Carnahan of Washington University in St. Louis, part of the project's three-member research team along with principal investigator Brad Greenwood of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and Laura Huang of Harvard University.

In fact, women had a better survival rate with male doctors who have a lot of female colleagues in the ER -- though they'd still be better off with a female physician. The results parallel similar studies of gender differences in medical outcomes, but the difference here, Carnahan said, is the stakes.

"You have highly trained experts with life or death on the line, and yet the gender match between the physician and the patient seems to matter a great deal," said Carnahan, associate professor of strategy at the Olin Business School.

The conclusions are central to a paper in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences entitled "Patient-Physician Gender Concordance and Increased Mortality Among Female Heart Attack Patients," coauthored with Greenwood of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management and the Harvard Business School's Huang.

Though the topic focuses on medical outcomes in a healthcare setting, Carnahan said the conclusions are relevant to business because the big picture is about gender differences in the workplace. It's a subject that has interested him for a long time, particularly after hearing how his sister's experiences in male-dominated workplaces differed from his own.

"Interpersonal interactions, whether they are between a doctor and patient or a manager and a subordinate, create the core of an organization," he said. "I'm very interested in how these interactions determine a firm's performance and influence the lives of its managers, employees, and customers."

The team reviewed a trove of anonymous medical data from Florida hospitals from 1991 to 2010. These data allowed the team to measure important factors like the age, race, and medical history of patients, hospital quality and more. Even accounting for these factors, the team found female patients were less likely to survive heart attacks than male patients and that gender differences in survival rates were the highest under male physicians.

For patients treated by female physicians, the gender disparity in survival rates was about 0.2 percent. In other words, 11.8 percent of men died, versus about 12 percent of women.

However, for patients treated by male physicians, the gender gap in survival more than tripled to 0.7 percent. In that case, 12.6 percent of men died compared to 13.3 percent of women.

"Our work corroborates prior research showing that female doctors tend to produce better patient outcomes than male doctors," Carnahan said. "The novel part of what we are doing is showing that the benefit of having a female doctor is particularly stark for a female patient."

In reviewing the conditions that most favored female patients, the team found that female survival rates rose as the percentage of female doctors in the ER rose -- particularly if the treating physician was male. The "male bias" effect also declined the more the male doctors had treated female patients.

Those mitigating factors "suggest that having training programs that are more gender neutral, or showing how men and women might present symptoms differently, could improve outcomes for female patients," Carnahan said.

The research is similar to another Carnahan-Greenwood collaboration documenting how female lawyers were less likely to advance in their firms with promotions and plum assignments when they worked for politically conservative male law partners.

The current paper, however, moves outside the employer-employee arena, where gender bias is well documented in certain circumstances.

"Employee-customer relationships don't have as much research in this area, and you can think of a physician and a patient being a customer relationship," Carnahan said. "I think organizations that get this right can outperform other firms and produce better outcomes for all of their stakeholders."
Medications that physicians have traditionally prescribed to treat opioid use disorders-;such as methadone and Subutex-;can be misused by taking them in larger amounts than prescribed or by injecting them.

The medication Suboxone is different.

A combination of buprenorphine and naloxone, Suboxone helps to prevent relapses by blocking the effect of the opioids.

"The naloxone discourages misuse as it is activated if an individual attempts to inject the medication," said Laura Lander, West Virginia University Social Work Section Chief and associate professor in the WVU School of Medicine.

And that activation isn't pleasant.

"Misuse of this medication could make you start to feel sick, or even go into withdrawal," explained Patrick Marshalek, a psychiatrist and clinical associate professor in WVU's School of Medicine and the medical director of WVU's Chestnut Ridge Center.

In a recent project, he and Lander examined the medical records of 26 pregnant women who were prescribed Suboxone to treat their opioid use disorder.

All of the women participated in the Chestnut Ridge Center's Comprehensive Opioid Addiction Treatment program.

Marshalek and Lander also reviewed the medical records of the women's newborn babies. The researchers looked at the newborns' gestational age; weight, length and head circumference; Apgar score; duration of hospital stay; diagnosis of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome; and prescribed pharmacological treatment for withdrawal.

They found that babies exposed to Suboxone in utero fared as well as, or better than, babies exposed to more conventional addiction treatments, such as treatment with methadone or Subutex.

"It used to be, if you were pregnant, you would be prescribed methadone," said Lander, who is also an addiction therapist at Chestnut Ridge Center.

Clinicians didn't put Subutex into common use for treating pregnant, opioid-dependent women until a landmark study in 2010 by Hendree Jones, a co-researcher on the current project, indicated that babies whose mothers took Subutex while pregnant had a lower incidence of withdrawal. If they did have withdrawal, it tended to be milder and required a shorter hospital stay.

Now Lander and Marshalek hope their findings, published in the "American Journal on Addictions," will make clinicians feel more comfortable prescribing Suboxone to their pregnant patients in treatment.

In the future, a randomized clinical trial would be conducted to explore how Suboxone and Subutex affect babies over the long term, even into childhood. In the meantime, Lander and Marshalek are training healthcare practitioners across West Virginia to pharmacologically treat opioid dependence. These patients include opioid-dependent pregnant women, whom Lander called "the most stigmatized folks," even by their own peers with substance use disorders.

Lander and Marshalek's research indicates that Suboxone may be a safe option for helping these stigmatized women who, as Marshalek said, already "face additional barriers to care."

Source: https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2018/08/06/wvu-faculty-investigate-safety-of-suboxone-use-in-pregnant-opioid-dependent-women
Dravidian icon and DMK chief M Karunanidhi made his final journey from Rajaji Hall to Marina Beach to take his final resting place alongside Jayalalithaa, DMK founder CN Annadurai and MGR. Draped in a tricolour, the five-time chief minister was taken for his burial in an open procession. A sea of supporters lined up along the route to catch a final glimpse of the departed leader and chanted slogans for their Thalaivar. Sobbing family members, including the late leader's sons M K Stalin and Tamizharasu, followed them. The commotion outside Rajaji Hall had led to the death of a 60-year-old woman and an elderly man as the crowds became restless in line to pay their last respects to the DMK patriarch in the afternoon. The Kalaignars heir and DMK Working President MK Stalin appealed for calm and security personnel tried to keep order as the bereaved family geared up for the funeral procession to Marina beach. DMK leader A Raja was among the first to reach Marina to oversee the preparation to bury Karunanidhi next to his mentor and DMK founder CN Annadurai. Karunanidhi will be buried at Anna Salai complex in the evening after his party won a legal challenge to the AIADMK governments denial of permission. Former chief minister MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa are also buried at the iconic complex. Leaders cutting across political lines and several film personalities have paid their last respects to the Dravidian icon at Rajaji Hall.
Earlier, Kauvery Hospital released a statement saying there is a decline in Mr Karunanidhi's medical condition and he will have to be monitored for the next 24 hours. (Image: PTI)
M Karunanidhi was the flag bearer of the Kallakudi protest. In this photo, he is seen protesting by lying on the railway track. with protestors. (Image: Subha News Photo Service)
Osho: The man who needs no introduction, Osho, was a guru and cult leader. A commune that began as forward-thinking and progressive ended up being a shocking dictatorship with a private army, cases of poisoning, silencing rebels etc. His followers were world over and flocked to his Pune ashram and then to Oregon too. While there is a Netflix series on the guru, news has been doing the rounds that Aamir Khan, our favourite perfectionist might be doing the role of Osho in an upcoming biopic on the guru. We are yet to hear an official announcement but if there ever was a life filled with controversies that needed to be made into a film, it has to be Oshos and who better than Aamir to play it.
Some 14,000 firefighters from as far away as Florida and even New Zealand are struggling to curb 18 fires in the midst of a sweltering summer that has seen wind-whipped flames carve their way through national forest land and rural areas, threaten urban areas and incinerate neighbourhoods. (Image: AP)
The Fantastic Four have been through a lot together, but what are their best stories? From Stan Lee and Jack Kirby to Grant Morrison to Walt Simonson, Mark Waid, Mike Wieringo, and more, these ten must-read tales are the perfect way to dive back in and get reacquainted with Ben, Johnny, Sue, Reed, and the rest. We've compiled a list of the ten stories that best capture the imagination, spirit, and excitement of Marvel's first family and oldest franchise.

10. New Fantastic Four (Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #347-350)

(Image credit: Marvel)

It may seem strange to have a story on this list that doesnt even feature the characters we usually think of as the Fantastic Four, but Walt Simonson's energetic story of an unlikely replacement team is too much fun not to include on this list.

Simonsons Fantastic Four isnt as prominent in the writer/artists catalog as his Thor run, but this gem with artist Arthur Adams takes the FF to a somewhat meta level by having the team be replaced by some of Marvels hottest characters at the time  Hulk, Wolverine, Ghost Rider, and Spider-Man  all while drolly pointing out the marketing potential of the team-up in clever cover blurbs. And of course the whole thing culminates in the return of the original FF (and a massive team up between both teams) in #350.

The story (and its replacement team) have been fan-favorites ever since, though the magic of Simonson and Adams collective sense of both action and humor have rarely been repeated  especially in the pages of Fantastic Four.

9. 1234 (1234 #1-4)

(Image credit: Marvel)

Grant Morrison is known for his massive, reality-stretching ideas, so taking on the Fantastic Four is a bit of a no brainer, and his mini-series 1234 with artist Jae Lee does not disappoint when it comes to high-concept. But what 1234 also manages to do is arrive at its big super science conclusion through a roadmap of personal stories and narratives.

Splitting the Richards family through a series of personal misfortunes and pitting the against a whos who of some of their greatest foes, Morrison and Lee dial-in on Doctor Doom as the teams greatest adversary. As the various events that unfold through the plot are revealed to be Dooms machinations, 1234 becomes a tale about two of the smartest men in the Marvel Universe - Reed Richards and Victor Von Doom  clashing in a reality bending test of intelligence and will.

8. The Peril and the Power (Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #57-60)

(Image credit: Marvel)

Many of the Stan Lee/Jack Kirby stories on this list (and stories in general) focus on the philosophical, the wondrous, the, well fantastic. But theres also something to be said for a high-octane thriller in the hands of Marvels first architects, too. And thats what Lee and Kirby deliver in The Peril and the Power, a four-part story in which Doom uses a machine to steal the Power Cosmic from the Silver Surfer.

What follows in a globetrotting adventure that brings in the Inhumans, the Frightful Four, and numerous other FF characters as Doom flits about wreaking havoc at the height of his power. Melodramatic action, bombastic sci-fi concepts, and more Kirby crackle than you can wield with clutched armored fist make this one of Lee and Kirbys most ripping adventures.

7. Fantastic Faux (FF Vol. 2 #1-16)

(Image credit: Marvel)

Following Jonathan Hickmans years long Fantastic Four run, writer Matt Fraction took over both the core title and its sister title, FF. Fraction sent the FF into space (and through time) and brought a substitute team into the Baxter Building in the pages of FF alongside artist Mike Allred.

Ant-Man, Medusa, She-Hulk, and the newly introduced Ms. Thing (Johnnys pop-star girlfriend Darla Deering wearing a mechanical Thing suit) formed the new team, who were left in charge of the Future Foundations group of advanced science students. The entire volume lasted 16 issues (the last handful of which were scripted by Lee Allred, Mikes brother) and get to the core of the Fantastic Fours family dynamic by examining the family we choose as well as the one were born into.

FF also managed to keep the sci-fi weirdness dialed way up with a Voltron-style Doctor Doom/Annihilus/Kang mash-up villain named Kang the Annihilating Conqueror, a one-eyed future Johnny Storm, and of course the adorable oddity of the Foundations many students. And, in its heartfelt finale, it brought Scott Lang face to face with Doctor Doom, the man responsible for his daughter Cassies death.

6. This Man, This Monster! (Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #51)

(Image credit: Marvel)

Stan Lee and Jack Kirby are often credited with bringing superheroes into modern storytelling with the Fantastic Four by focusing on the teams humanity and personal relationships - an innovative concept in the early 1960s, especially as an insight into characters whose powers can be as much a burden as a blessing.

This dynamic is best explored in the story This Man, This Monster! in which a criminal scientist does the unimaginable and steals Ben Grimms powers, impersonating him among the FF and endangering Reed Richards in the process.

The single issue story culminates in a daring sacrifice that has tragic, unforeseen ramifications on Ben Grimm and his quest to rediscover his humanity. Its a beautifully crafted O. Henry-style story twist that shows off the best of what Lee and Kirby could accomplish together.

5. Unthinkable (Fantastic Four vol. 2 #67-70, vol. 2 #500)

(Image credit: Marvel)

Mark Waid and Mike Wieringos Fantastic Four is largely hailed as one of he greatest runs on the title of all time  a reputation it earned in no small part thanks to Unthinkable, a story that took the FFs arch-foe Doctor Doom to new levels of villainy which included dark arcane power, a suit made of flesh  and eventually the death of one of the FFs own.

After seizing tremendous arcane power through a dark ritual in which he turned the flesh of his former lover into new necromantic armor. Kidnapping Franklin and Valeria, Doom set about besting Reed Richards once and for all through magic  the one science Reed cant grasp.

Unthinkable forced the Fantastic Four  and Reed specifically  to stretch himself in every imaginable capacity, and Doom still ended up magically disfiguring Reeds face and setting him on a course of action that would eventually lead to Ben Grimms death.

Waid and Wieringos entire run captured the boundary pushing adventurous nature of the FF, but Waids ultimate showdown between Dooms magic and Reeds science, the dangerous new precedent for the FFs villains, and the start of Dooms connection to Valeria Richards make this one of the best stories of their run (not to mention Wieringos masterful, expressive art)  and, it directly set the stage for the best story of the pairs work together.

4. Three (Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #583-588)

(Image credit: Marvel)

Writer Jonathan Hickmans Fantastic Four epic is a great read for fans looking for a big picture FF saga that touches on nearly the teams entirely mythos. But to dial his contribution to the team down to a single story is a tougher prospect, partially because of the magnitude of his narrative design.

There are a lot of gems in Hickmans FF, but the best story of his run is arguably Three with artist Steve Epting. In the storys final chapter, Johnny and Ben Grimm fight alone to repel an invasion from the Negative Zone. Just as theyre about to overcome the Annihilation Wave, a bit of Hickmans long-term tragedy kicks in, and Ben reverts to human form thanks to a potion he took that allows him to shed his rocky form once a year.

Johnny is overrun by the Wave as Ben seals the portal from the outside, lamenting his inability to help his friend thanks to the one thing he always wanted  the return of his humanity. Epting captures the unspeakable horror of the moment with gut-wrenching moodiness that echoes Bens solemn resignation at his best friends death.

Its a dark chapter in the FFs history to be sure (not that thats unique) but Hickmans ability to capture the true familial pathos of the Fantastic Four and the unique bond between Johnny and Ben make this a must read story. The tale also formally brought Spider-Man into the team as Johnnys replacement, and led to the creation of the Future Foundation.

3. Trial of Reed Richards (Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #262)

(Image credit: Marvel)

John Byrnes lengthy run on Fantastic Four in the 1980s brought Marvels first family back to prominence after nearly a decade of workmanlike runs that aspired to but didnt reach the heights of innovation and excitement the 100 issues Lee and Kirby produced in the 60s. But Byrne, with his cartoonists approach to writing and drawing the series and his knack for sci-fi laced melodrama made him the heir apparent to Lee and Kirbys grandeur  and made the FF a cant-miss title for the first time in years.

Its tough to pin down everything Byrne contributed to the Fantastic Four, but his massive story The Trial of Galactus sums up what Byrne was capable of at the height of his game, and the power of escalating a big idea. In the story, Reed Richards stands trial for saving Galactus life and allowing him to consume more planets.

In the course of the story, we learn Galactus history, and his place in the cosmic order of the Marvel Universe. But the brilliance of The Trial of Galactus is that by putting Reed on trial, it forces him to grapple with the ramifications of a universe without Galactus monumental hunger  and even defend the way he sates it.

2. Hereafter (Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #509-511)

(Image credit: Marvel)

Fantastic Four has always been about family. Sometimes that means your blood relations, but sometimes its about the people you choose. For Reed Richards, that means Ben Grimm, his constant companion, best friend, and fellow FF member. So when Doctor Doom used his mind-switching power to take over Bens body and force Reed to kill his best friend to defeat him in Mark Waid and Howard Porters Authoritative Action, it left the still-physically scarred Reed inconsolable.

The follow up arc to Authoritative Action (itself presaged by the also must-read Unthinkable) Hereafter brought the titles regular artist Mike Wieringo back to the fold for what would become the creative teams best story  and one of the greatest tributes to Marvel Comics, the FF, and even Jack Kirby ever put to paper.

Hereafter follows Reeds quest to bring back his dead friend. In doing so, Reed decides to put his faith in something other than himself, and it leads him to a destination unlike any the FF had ever visited previously  Heaven itself, complete with a Kirby-esque creator pulling the strings (or more aptly pushing the pencils). But unlike previous fourth wall breaking stories like Grant Morrisons Animal Man, Hereafter is less about the consequences of learning the nature of ones reality and more about what is possible when you accept the right impossibility at the right time.

This isnt a story where Reed, Sue, Johnny, and Ben save the world. Its not a story where they bash down a supervillain, or solve a cosmic crisis. Hereafter is about love, hope, friendship, and ultimately, discovery  the core tenets of what Fantastic Four is all about.

1. The Galactus Trilogy (Fantastic Four Vol. 1 #48-50)

(Image credit: Marvel)

Theres an apocryphal story about the origin of The Galactus Trilogy, the FFs first encounter with Galactus, that says Stan Lee and Jack Kirby got the idea when Kirby asked Lee What if the Fantastic Four met God?

Whether thats true or not, the anecdote  and this story, the mid-point of Lee and Kirbys FF collaboration  are a perfect microcosm of the insane game of yes, and that Lee and Kirby often embarked upon when crafting their stories (and which is largely responsible for the discrepancies in how theyre often credited).

Every turn in The Galactus Trilogy adds another level of apocalyptic cosmic fantasy, driven by increasingly bombastic plot devices and characters  from the arrival of the enigmatic Silver Surfer, to the looming presence of Uatu the Watcher, to Galactus himself, and of course the tool of the FFs final desperate victory, the Ultimate Nullifier, Lee and Kirby simply dont slow down once this story starts.

In some ways, If This Be Doomsday set the blueprint for the modern epic storyline, spreading its surprises and big ideas out over three issues (a lengthy tale at the time) with the highest stakes possible. Its also not just the pinnacle of Lee and Kirbys run artistically and creativity, its also the one FF story any fan absolutely must read.
Kathmandu : Nearly 180 Indians on way back home from Mansarovar pilgrimage are stranded in Humla district in Nepal due to bad weather, official sources said on Sunday.

However, the numbers are not alarming and it will take just a day of good weather and normal operation of flights to evacuate all the stranded persons, the Indian Embassy here said.

It confirmed that these persons were stranded in Simikot, the district headquarters of Humla, and Hilsa on the Nepal-China border.

A headcount on Saturday evening in both places revealed that 124 pilgrims were stuck in Simikot and 50 in Hilsa or on way to Hilsa, the embassy said.

Due to bad weather, it was impossible to airlift these Indians from Hilsa to Simikot and Simikot to Nepalgunj, a border city which is only a four-hour drive from Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh.

In July, over 2,000 Indian pilgrims were stranded but were airlifted to safety. Nepal is a popular destination for Indian pilgrims to visit Mansarovar due to the distance and comfort factors involved.

Simikot has basic board and lodging facilities for 500 pilgrims, the embassy said, along with medical and first-aid facilities.

The pilgrims stranded in Humla since Saturday have not complained about board and lodging and medical services, it added.

Embassy's representatives in Simikot, Hilsa, Nepalganj are on alert and monitoring the situation. The embassy will ensure timely evacuation of stranded pilgrims in case of emergency, the statement said.
Guatemala City : Guatemala's Fuego volcano, which caused havoc in June, has erupted again.

Authorities on Sunday evening ordered the evacuation of emergency personnel who have been working in the area since it last erupted, reports Xinhua news agency.



Residents have been warned to keep away from rivers that might overflow and to be on alert for further instructions from authorities.

In addition, according to the US Geological Survey, an earthquake measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale struck 74 km south of Puerto San Jose in Guatemala on Saturday.



The National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED) of Guatemala described the previous eruption as "the strongest one recorded in recent years", killing around 300 people and displacing thousands.




Tehran : Iran's Interior Ministry has blamed foreign sources for the anti-government unrest in the country, affecting its economic situation, Press TV reported on Monday.



"Bulk of the protest rallies, under the guise of protests against economic woes, in Iran over the past month were originated from outside the country," Xinhua quoted Interior Ministry spokesman Salman Samani as saying.



"Only a handful of people were influenced by such propaganda and attended the unlawful protests in a few cities," he added.



"The main elements provoking unrest in Iran are mostly individuals or groups who do not care about the economic problems and only seek to foment chaos by taking advantage of problems like price hikes and livelihood issues," Samani said.



The Iranian spokesman also said that efforts were underway to control the protests and the situation would be handled with "minimum tensions and through dialogue".

Protests were reportedly held in the Iranian cities of Shiraz, Isfahan, Ahvaz and Karaj over the past few days against worsening economic conditions. The protests have been largely described as peaceful without any major instance of violence.
Jerusalem : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has hailed US President Donald Trump for re-imposing sanctions on Iran.



"I congratulate President Trump and the US government on the important decision to re-impose sanctions on Iran," Netanyahu said in a statement on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported.



Netanyahu, a vocal opponent of the 2015 Iranian nuclear deal, called the renewed sanctions "an important moment for Israel, the US, the region, and the entire world."



The move "symbolizes the determination to curb Iran's regional aggression and its ongoing plans to arm itself with nuclear weapons," he said.



Netanyahu, who has accused Iran of secretly attempting to develop nuclear weapons, also urged European countries to follow Trump's move.



"It's time to stop talking. It's time to do. That's exactly what the United States did and that's what Europe needs to do," Netanyahu said.



Trump signed on Monday an executive order to re-impose a number of sanctions on Iran, saying the US policy is to impose "maximum economic pressure" on the Islamic republic.



The move came three months after Trump withdrew from the Iranian nuclear deal.



In 2015, Iran signed a landmark pact with six world powers, in which the West promises to relieve sanctions on Tehran in exchange for a halt in Iran's controversial nuclear programme.



Iran has repeatedly denied any attempts to develop nuclear arms after the nuke accord.
Managua : The Nicaragua Police has cracked down on anti-government marches being held in several cities across the country and barred foreign journalists from covering the protests.

"You cannot go here, go to the park and shoot there," said a police officer, while stopping journalists from entering a street that was part of a common transit, Efe news reported.

Several reporters have been captured and assaulted during the protests, in which, until now, 317-448 people have lost their lives.

The protests against President Daniel Ortega, who has been accused of corruption and abuse of power, started on April 18 over a set of social security reforms and had led to repeated calls for him to step down.
Thiruvananthapuram : President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday expressed regret over political violence in Kerala which he said did little justice to the glorious traditions of the state and its people.

"It is important for all political groups and enlightened citizens to do their utmost to curb the development of such tendencies," the President said after inaugurating the 'Festival of Democracy', a series of programmes to mark the conclusion of the diamond jubilee celebrations of the Kerala Assembly.

"Violence has no place in our Constitution and it would be appropriate if we could give some thought to this... The people of Kerala, and the citizens of India, deserve that we do serious thinking on the issue," he said.

The political violence which plagues certain regions of Kerala was unfortunate, he added.

The programmes, attended by the Governor P. Sathasivam, Chief Minister Pinnarayi Vijayan and a host of MLAs from several states, includes a series of national level seminars aimed at strengthening the values of democracy.

In his inaugural address, the President commended the Speaker for taking the initiative for this event comprising six seminars on key themes including the relevance and wider applicability of the Kerala developmental model.

These, he pointed out, were extremely meaningful themes and a celebration of these ideas was entirely in keeping with Kerala's rich intellectual legacy.

The diamond jubilee celebration was a befitting tribute to stalwarts like E.M.S. Nampoothiripaad, E.K. Nayanar and K. Karunakaran amongst others who helped shape the Assembly to its present identity, he said.

Focussing on the "Kerala Model", which has achieved a lot in literacy, healthcare and social sectors, the President said it was now time for the youth of Kerala to derive greater benefits from the model.

Earlier, presiding over the function, Governor Sathasivan said people often lamented the fall in the standards of democratic institutions and more importantly in the growing disregard for procedure and convention in such bodies.

"It may be true that newer issues need to be confronted through novel modes of protest and dissent. But such protests cannot ignore the basic dignity of the democratic institution nor can they hamper the constitutional rights of the members, no matter whether they rule or sit in the opposition," he said.

Chief Minister Vijayan said the present LDF Government in Kerala had been making path breaking interventions.

He underlined that though the central government had dropped the Plan process, the Special Component Plan (SCP) and the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP), Kerala had retained the Plan process as well as the SCP and the TSP.

These were essential in ensuring that there was just allocation of resources for the disadvantaged sections, he said.

"While vested interests try to weaken our democracy through orchestrated campaigns, it is the duty of all of us who have assumed office having sworn allegiance to the Indian Constitution to protect democracy and strengthen secularism," he said.
Jaipur : Citing suicide by one more farmer in Rajasthan on Sunday, former state Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday dubbed Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje's "Gaurav Yatra" as "Vidai Yatra".

In a Facebook post, Gehlot questioned Raje as to which "gaurav" (honour) she is trying to boast of at a time when the state is witnessing a high rate of suicides by farmers.

He wrote that it is a shame for Rajasthan that the farmers are killing themselves due to extreme financial hardship. He referred to a physically challenged farmer Mangalam Meghwal (30), who was found hanging at his house on Sunday morning.

According the family of deceased farmer, he had taken a loan of Rs 2.98 lakh from the Punjab National Bank, out of which he had returned Rs 1.95 lakh. But as the remaining part was unpaid, on the bank's suggestion, the SDM on August 2 ordered for actioning of his 3.05-hectare land.

On August 7, the land was to be auctioned and the stressed man committed suicide two days prior to it.

The family of the deceased and farmer leaders refused to collect his body unless the auction order was cancelled. They relented only after the administration assured that they would look into the matter.

Gehlot said that at a time when farmers of Rajasthan are facing tough times, such yatra raises several questions on the state government.

The state government has failed on all fronts, including providing relief to the farmers. "But surprisingly, the state government seems unwilling to accept the fact that a large number of farmers have committed suicide," he said.

The former Chief Minister also said that Raje, it seems, feels honoured to misuse hard-earned money of tax-payers and the government machinery for fake publicity of her so-called achievements.

"She has a notion that she shall grab the Chief Minister's seat this year too by making tall claims. But this time, she shall not be successful in her endeavour and this yatra will prove to be her 'Vidai Yatra'," he said.

"#Farmers in state are committing suicide n CM Smt. Raje is carrying out #RajasthanGauravYatra," tweeted Gehlot.

"Most heart wrenching to know that one more farmer ended his life so tragically in #Nagaur #Rajasthan due to debt burden. BJP govt has totally failed in providing any relief to farmers," he wrote in Twitter.

Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee chief Sachin Pilot has also asked Raje as to what honour she is claiming after issuing orders of auctioning of the land of a farmer who was finding it difficult to pay the loan instalments.
Israeli Mossad is probing the death of Syrian scientist Aziz Asbar (Representational image)

New Delhi : Israel, a Middle Eastern country is best known for its impenetrable nations security. And, the credit goes to its robust intelligence agency, Mossad, which is considered as the worlds most dangerous intelligence agency. It is one of the main units in the the countrys intelligence community, along with Aman known for military intelligence and Shin Bet for internal security.

Mossad has its people in different nook and corner of the world and can counter tourism at ease. The Israeli agents undertake their task secretly and their names or works are never published. The director of the agency has direct connection with the Prime Minister of the country. The dangerous working style and major exploits have led the world to afraid of its name.

Mossad in Israel was formed way back on December 13, 1949, as the Central Institute for Coordination at the recommendation of Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion to Reuven Shiloah. Today the agency has earned immense resources in terms of man power and technicalities. Its employees work under a variety of covers, including diplomatic and unofficial. They are responsible for covert operations and their powers are exempted from the constitutional law of Israel.

For now, a serior official from the intelligence agency told The New York Times that the Israeli Mossad is probing the death of Syrian scientist Aziz Asbar, who was killed by a car bomb on August 4, 2018. The dangerous team is behind the scope of secret assassinations of the Syrias rocket scientist and will possibly dig out the fact very soon.
North Korea has a total of 1.30 million soldiers while the US has 14.52 million armies

New Delhi : Despite of innumerable international restrictions imposed on North Korea, country continues to flourish it terms of strength and power. The current scenario suggests that the dispute between North Korea and the US is at acme and it is time to judge the supremacy between the two powerful nations.

Though American dictator Kim Jong is attempting to lead the test of time, North Korea is not in the mood to accept the ban and therefore warns the attack.

Last year, a series of successful missile and nuclear tests has been conducted in North Korea, which clearly exhibited the growing power and military expertise. Now, the country has become a sector of tension for the United States of America. The war may begin at anytime and so we need to know how much force does the US and North Korea have in their kitty

In terms of man power, North Korea has a total of 1.30 million soldiers while the US has 14.52 million armies.

Coming to military satellites, the United States has 123 numbers of satellites which can capture a small bird/insect loitering in the North Korea. On the other hand, North Korea does not have even one.

When it is about the attack helicopters, the US military has 1830 which is much bigger in count than only 100 available with North Korea

North Korea has 76 submarines, while the United States has 81. Also, America also has nuclear submarine while North Korea does not have it.

North Korea has 10 or some more nuclear bombs, while the United States has more than 7,000

North Korea has a total of 944 aircraft. And, interestingly, the US has 15 times more (13,762) aircraft than its opponent party.

North Korea has 5025 tanks and the US already has well-built 5884 tankes

While North Korea has 130 warships, America has 441 warships, which are designed with modern technologies.

While North Korea has demonstrated its power by launching test missiles, America, on October 10, last year, has thrown military bombers over North Korea's Penisula area so as to showcase its strength.

However, the US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said that America will continue diplomatic practices with North Korea until they come across the first bombing attack.
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Dear Newsie Readers,

Newsie has now permanently ceased it's services as of Friday 20th December 2019.

Newsie has been an owner-funded operation since day one.

Coming up to three years old, while we still firmly believe Newsie has a place in the New Zealand media landscape, the cost in both time and money has become too burdensome for the owners to continue alongside other ventures.

With the current government looking to restructure public broadcasting, and seemingly supporting NZME buying a ring-fenced Stuff, the time seems right to call it a day.

Should it happen, the combination of NZME and Stuff will ensure New Zealands national media will die a death by a thousand opinion-based articles.

Newsie has always tried to stick to balanced news, to inform readers of the facts of a situation, amid being largely ignored by government. Hopefully, one day someone else will take up the challenge to fight the good fight.

The good news, however, is that there were no job losses as a result of Newsie closing. Thanks to careful structuring, everyone involved in Newsie will retain their current positions.

We hope you all have a happy Christmas and new year. Stay safe, and stay out of the news.

The team at Newsie
CLINTON  A California-based utility company has sweetened the deal in its effort to convince Connecticut Water Service shareholders to suport its offer rather than one being proposed by Eversource Energy.

The $70 per share that San Jose-based SJW Group is offering represents an $8.14 increase on the offer that it made in March for Clinton-based Connecticut Water. But the original deal was a stock swap and SJWs latest proposal calls for that utility to purchase Connecticut Water shareholders stock.

David Benoit, president and chief executive officer of Connecticut Water, said he doesnt view SJW Groups amended agreement as a deal sweetner.

This really represents an attempt to clear up any distractions that Eversources offeer may have created with our stock price, Benoit said. This (was) designed to facilitate the closing of our companies transformative transaction, which we believe remains the better deal.

Eversource officials made a counter offer for Connecticut Water in mid-April, offering to acquire all outstanding shares of Connecticut Water for either $63.50 a share in cash and/or Eversource common shares.

Eversource completed its acquisition of Bridgeport-based Aquarion Water Co. in early December 2017. Caroline Pretyman, a Boston-based Eversource spokeswoman, said company officials are aware of SJW Groups latest offer for Connecticut Water.

We are evaluating our options and as we have made clear, well be disciplined in pursuit of this or any other transaction, Pretyman said. We believe our offer is more compelling.

Robert Van Valer is the lead independent director of SJW Groups board of directors and trustee of the Roscoe Moss Jr. Revocable Trust, which is the largest stockholder of SJW Group. Van Valer said the amended agreement reflects our continued and shared commitment with Connecticut Water to combine our two companies to create a leading national water and wastewater utility.

Under the revised terms, the combination will substantially enhance our long-term value and significantly benefit our shareholders, employees, customers and local service area communities, he said. Together, we will have a multi-state presence with a broader and more attractive growth platform and capacity to invest in our infrastructure, maintain our local operations and focus, provide greater opportunities for our employees and increase shareholder value over the immediate- and long-term.

The merger of equals is scheduled to close during the first quarter on next year. Benoit said the merger agreement already is making its way through regulatory hearings before the states Public Utilities Regulatory Authority holds it first public hearing on the application Aug. 15.

Connecticut Water serves 450,000 people in this state and Maine. In Connecticut, the utility serves 56 towns, including 10 in the New Haven area.

The company also provides wastewater service to more than 10,000 people in Connecticut.

luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.com
NEW FAIRFIELD  Selling the municipal water system to Aquarion would save the town money and could benefit customers in the long term, officials and residents argued at a public hearing Monday night.

About a half-dozen residents attended the meeting at the Senior Center to discuss the plan to sell the water system at Memorial Field to Aquarion for $150,000. Under the sale, Aquarion would get the 4,500 feet of water main, three wells, a pump house, storage tanks and associated easements that make up the system.

The system is considered small, servicing town buildings and a few businesses in the center of town, but officials said it has gotten to be too much to manage, especially in light of increasing state regulations.

Were really not in the business of operating a water system, First Selectman Pat Del Monaco said.

The Board of Selectmen and Planning Commission have already voted in favor of the plan, but residents will need to approve the sale at a future town meeting.

Charter Realty built this system in 2003 so that it could build a new shopping center at 25 Route 39 and turned the assets over to the town in 2004.

Since then, two volunteers, with occasional help from a part-time operator, have overseen the system. But the volunteers said Aquarion would have the resources to make upgrades and properly abide by state testing requirements.

Im getting a little long in the tooth to be doing this, said Tom Quigley, one of the volunteers and chairman of the Water Pollution Control Authority. It's time to give the system to the people who surround it with their entities. Aquarion Water owns almost all the other water systems around this system and its a nice fit for them.

Aquarion runs six small systems in New Fairfield, in addition to 67 systems in the state. The company serves 197,000 customers, or more than 625,000 people, in 51 cities across the state.

Bill OKeeffe, a New Fairfield resident since 1972 and Aquarion customer, said he supports the sale.

The move youre making is a very positive one, he said. Youre moving with a big company, which is very well established.

Among Aquarions systems is one in Ball Pond, where customers often suffered from outages until the company spent millions on upgrades, said Tim Simpkins, New Fairfields health director, who also volunteers to manage the municipal system.

Simpkins said the system is aging, adding the town would need to pay to supply water to businesses during a failure.

Weve dodged a couple bullets, he said.

But Selectman Kim Hanson said he wanted the sale agreement with Aquarion to limit how much water the company could pump.

Others argued this was unncessary because existing rules would prevent Aquarion from pumping more than 9.9 gallons per minute out of each well.

But Hanson said he feared 200 years from now rules would change and that Aquarion would take water from New Fairfield and sell it to Danbury, for example.

I just dont want to see unlimited future access, he said.

Hanson said he also wanted the agreement to prevent the company from adding another pump without town permission, which other officials argued the agreement already did.

Daniel Lawrence, director engineering and planning with Aquarion, said the company would need approval to build a new well and would consult the town about repairs to existing wells.

We believe in being good community members, he said. Were not just going to do things. Its in your park. Were going to work with you.

Aquarion hopes to connect the system at Memorial Field to its others, which would mean customers would be less likely to lose water in an emergency, Lawrence said.

Connecting the systems could also help improve water quality and quantity problems at the four schools, Simpkins said.

Wesley Marsh, chairman of the Board of Finance, said the town would have to spend more money if it kept the water system because it would need to make repairs and hire a water department.

Lets sell the asset, so both parties get a benefit, he said.
Monday's proceedings in the trial of President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman Paul Manafort gave a tutorial in the "no honor among thieves" phenomenon. Former deputy campaign manager Rick Gates, a cooperating witness, detailed his own wrongdoing, including embezzling funds from Manafort, before testifying to a long list of purported crimes by his former mentor.

The Post reports:

"In his first hour on the witness stand, Gates catalogued years of illegal activity, saying most of his wrongdoing was committed on behalf of his former boss, Paul Manafort, while other crimes were for his own benefit, including the theft of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Gates also made clear that he was testifying against Manafort with the hope of receiving a lesser prison sentence, having pleaded guilty in February as part of a deal with special counsel Robert Mueller.

"Manafort's trial in Alexandria, Virginia, is the first to arise out of the Mueller probe and marks a major public test of that investigation's credibility. Mueller's team is investigating Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and whether any Trump associates conspired with those efforts."

In particular, Gates detailed Manafort's "15 foreign accounts they did not report to the federal government and that they knew [were] illegal" and intentionally misidentifying foreign money wired to the United States as loans. This was allegedly designed to avoid paying taxes.

Gates is a problematic witness, to put it mildly. Boy Scouts usually don't have eyewitness testimony of serious crimes over an extended period of time. To some extent, the testimony that preceded Gates - vendors from whom Manafort bought hundreds of thousands of dollars in clothes, an accountant who misstated income, etc. - paved the way for Gates to describe the inner workings of Manafort's operation. Even if the jury doesn't entirely believe Gates, the mountain of documentary evidence and other witness testimony is staggering.

As a political matter, the trial has several troubling implications for Trump.

First, it paints an ugly picture of the sort of people who sought out Trump and whom Trump vouched for. Honest, upstanding people didn't go to work for Trump; Michael Cohen, Gates and Manafort did. It's no crime to have friends who are accused of crimes, but it does remind us that Trump's stamp of approval is no reflection on the person he's supporting; it's a function of what Trump needs (silence, praise, etc.). Remember Trump decrying the raid on Manafort's house and the special counsel for trying Manafort? Take that as a reflection of Trump's character, not Manafort's.

Second, the notion that this is all a witch hunt - no crimes! nothing to see! - is evaporating before Trump's eyes. There was more than enough evidence to go after Gates and Manafort. The prosecutors still have to get a favorable verdict, but it is becoming ludicrous to argue that they've not been justified in pursuing Trump's cronies. With a likely conviction in the bag, the gap between the prosecutors' legal acumen and the Trump team's should be glaring - and, to Trump, frightening.

Third, this is only the first Manafort trial. He'll go on trial later this year (unless he strikes a deal) for other alleged crimes, including witness tampering and failure to register as a foreign agent for a Russian-backed Ukrainian party. That's when we'll hear plenty about Russia. The extent of the relationship between Kremlin-aligned figures and the most senior Trump campaign official during a critical time in the race, including the Republican National Convention, should become clear.

And finally, Trump lawyers' attempts to paint his campaign organization as perfectly normal or, alternatively, as too incompetent to commit crimes look less and less credible as we learn more about these characters. No, normal campaigns don't have a campaign chief with 15 foreign accounts to allegedly evade taxes, just as they don't meet with hostile foreign powers peddling dirt on their political opponents. And a disorganized campaign leaves lots of room for people to do things they shouldn't.

Media pundits love to say that Trump has "redefined" the presidency. Wrong. He only redefines it and our constitutional system if he and his associates escape accountability. If they don't, the guardrails of democracy will have held. Then Trump can be seen as the horrible exception to the rules rather than as the man who shattered the rules.

The effort to reinforce the guardrails begins with Manafort's trial, which explains why Trump is having a public meltdown.
In 2019, China will start deploy J-20B stealth fighters with a new Xian WS-15 jet engine. This engine could finally bring China to about the engine performance level of the US PW-119 engine that were installed over 20 years ago in the F22.

The US has jet engines programs to improve and the power and fuel efficiency of engines compared to those used in the F22.

China is continuing to refine the stealth and various component and systems in their J-20 and J-31 stealth fighters.

China is also continuing to upgrade and improve stealth technology and engines in large stealth drones.

China could soon reveal a stealth bomber which might be comparable to the US B2 stealth bomber.

Chinas Air Force is well funded and is clearly surpassing Russias air force and catching up to US military technology on the whole range of systems.

Getting some very close looks at the J-20 now! pic.twitter.com/FkeGPwQMCz  Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) May 31, 2018

An amazing shot of FC-31 via angadow. pic.twitter.com/gLz3FvoCzO  dafeng cao (@dafengcao) November 14, 2017
China on Sunday put into operation a prototype supercomputer that will test out possible technologies and architectures for an exaFLOP supercomputer in 2020 or 2021.

The Sunway exascale computer prototype was developed by the National Research Center of Parallel Computer Engineering and Technology (NRCPC), the National Supercomputing Center in Jinan, east Chinas Shandong Province, and the Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao).

The NRCPC led the team that developed Sunway TaihuLight, crowned the worlds fastest computer two years in a row at both the 2016 and 2017 International Supercomputing Conferences held in Frankfurt, Germany.

The Sunway exascale computer prototype is very much like a concept car that can run on road,said Yang Meihong, director of the National Supercomputing Center in Jinan.

We expect to build the exascale computer in the second half of 2020 or the first half of 2021, said Yang.

Another prototype exascale supercomputer Tianhe-3 successfully completed acceptance tests on July 22. Its final version is expected to come out in 2020.

Tianhe-3 uses three domestically produced high-performance computing and communication chips. It will be 200 times faster and have 100 times more storage capacity than the Tianhe-1  Chinas first petascale supercomputer which reached 2.5 petaFLOPS.

The two prototypes marked a further step towards Chinas successful development of the next-generation supercomputer.

Currently the United States has the fastest supercomputer in the world. The Summit supercomputers runs at 200 petaFLOPS.
Dell Technologies Inc.'s furthest-reaching financial projections received a muted response from the investors it needs to impress to pull off a deal to return to public markets.

Holders of the DVMT tracking stock have been anxious to see how Dell is projecting its performance because the numbers are being used to help justify an offer of $109-a-share in cash and Dell Class C shares for their stock. Signaling skepticism that the deal can be completed, DVMT has traded below the bid price since it was announced last month.

DVMT rose 0.4 percent to $93.85 at 12:46 p.m. in New York on Tuesday, the first day of trading after Dell's guidance was announced in a proxy statement.

Dell expects its revenue to increase about 9.5 percent to $87.5 billion in fiscal 2019, according to the proxy statement Monday. That's the midpoint of a projected range, compared with $79.9 billion in sales a year earlier. Dell said its total earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortization are expected to increase 18 percent to $9.7 billion, up from $8.2 billion.

Both revenue and EBITDA - earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization - metrics include financial benefits from Dell's stake in software maker VMware Inc., whose shares the DVMT stock was set up to track.

The deeper look into its financials comes as Dell steps up efforts to win support to buy out the DVMT shares in a plan that will take the company public again.

The much-anticipated proxy statement includes background on how the deal came to be and financial projections through fiscal 2023 -- the furthest-reaching guidance that Dell has given since it was taken private in 2013. The information is key to making the case for its unusual return to the public markets by buying out the DVMT shares.

After initial meetings with the company, skepticism among investors had been mounting as to how Dell arrived at the offer price.

For some top holders of the tracking stock, the share component has been a sticking point, people familiar with the matter said last month. The offer values Dell's Class C shares at $79.77, leaving investors wondering how those shares jumped 140 percent in value from $33.17 apiece in November, as disclosed in a May proxy filing, to July 2 when the deal was announced.

Investors including activists Carl Icahn and Elliott Management Corp. have been waiting for additional details on the process they expected to be revealed in the proxy filing. At stake is Michael Dell's goal of streamlining his debt-laden technology empire, while giving the company the ability to use equity to finance future acquisitions.

For example, its guidance for fiscal 2019 total revenue increased to a range of $86.5 billion to $88.5 billion, up from an earlier estimate of $82.7 billion, according to the filing. For 2022, Dell changed its estimate to a range of $99.5 to $103.3 billion, up from $99.9 billion.

Dell reevaluated the projections after its fiscal first quarter performance exceeded management's expectations, according to the filing. The company said it also included changes in accounting standards related to items such as revenue recognition and cash flow statements.
BRIDGEPORT - A Fairfield teen, accused of seriously injuring another teen when he drove off with the victim on his car, was ordered on house arrest on Monday.

Although Andrew Bantle, 18, wanted to continue working his landscaping job until he began his senior year in Fairfield Ludlow High School later this month, Superior Court Judge Tracy Lee Dayton said that would not be a good idea based on the alleged incident.

By your actions you showed you area a danger with a motor vehicle, stay in your grandmothers home and help her with things in the house, the judge continued. She also ordered him to wear an electronic monitoring anklet until his next court hearing on Aug. 28.

When Bantles lawyer, Thomas Cocco, told the judge that his client intended to go with his family on a vacation to Iowa prior to the start of school the judge retorted, Thats not going to happen. The other young man suffered a serious brain injury and wont be going on vacation and neither will your client.

Bantle, who lives with his grandmother on Stevenson Road, is charged with reckless driving and evading responsibility in a case of a serious injury.

Shortly after 5 p.m. on May 7, police said Bantle drove his grandmothers 2002 Toyota Camry into the parking lot at Lake Mohegan in Fairfield where he encountered a group of friends.

Police said while talking with his friends a 16-year-old boy sat on the trunk of Bantles car. At some point police said Bantle began to drive off with the teen still on the trunk and then suddenly accelerated causing the boy to fall head first onto the pavement. Bantle, aware that the boy had fallen, continued to drive away, police said.

The younger boy suffered a severe brain injury in the fall, police said.
NEW HAVEN  Jonathan Mills, convicted of murdering four people in Guilford in 2000, is likely one of five people  three of them prison inmates  seeking reward money for aiding the states case against serial killer William Devin Howell, according to a New Haven Register source.

Howell killed seven people in Connecticut in 2003 and is serving six consecutive life terms in prison. Mills, who was convicted in 2004 in four murders, shared a cell with Howell. Mills used their conversations to draw a map for police showing where the bodies of some of Howells victims were located.

Several months ago, a source in Superior Court in New Haven told the Register that Mills was interested in collecting some of the $150,000 reward money from the state. Three $50,000 rewards had been offered.

New Britain States Attorney Brian Preleski has filed a motion for equitable apportionment of reward. A court hearing will be held to consider the issue.

Preleski wants to keep the names of the five claimants secret because he believes releasing those names could jeopardize their safety. But news media reports have already identified Mills as the source who told police that the bodies of Howells victims were buried in a wooded area behind a shopping mall in New Britain.

Howell was arrested in September 2015 in those slayings. But that year, he already was serving a 15-year sentence in the killing of Nilsa Arizmendi. He was convicted in that case in 2005.

His other victims were Joyvaline Martinez, Mary Jane Menard, Danny Lee Whistnant, Diane Cusack, Melanie Camilini and Marilyn Mendez Gonzalez.

Howell received the six life sentences last November after pleading guilty to six counts of murder.

Mills was sentenced to life in prison in January 2005 for killing Mindy Leigh, Katherine Kleinkauf and Kleinkaufs two children, Rachael Crum, 6, and Kyle Redway, 4.

Mills strangled Leigh after they allegedly had an argument. He stabbed the other three victims after they woke up while he went to steal Kleinkaufs ATM card to get cash for drugs.

randall.beach@hearstmediact.com
Several local nonprofit theater companies will present plays this summer.

 The Connecticut Compass Theatre Company will present Shakespeares A Midsummer Nights Dream at Performance Plus at RVP Studios, The Cave, 221 Bull Hill Lane, West Haven. Performances are at 7 p.m. Aug. 11 and 3 p.m. Aug. 12. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Go to https://events.ticketprinting.com/event/Cctc-Presents-A-Midsummer-Nights-Dream-29372.

 The Whitney Players family show, presents the musical The Wizard of Oz with flying witches and monkeys, and four friends searching for heart, mind, courage and home, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 8-10, 2 p.m. Aug. 11, Hamden High School. Tickets: www.thewhitneyplayers.org or at Thornton Wilder Hall, Hamden, 6-7:30 p.m. Thursdays, $15 student, senior, $18 adult until Aug. 6, $20 after.

 Elm Shakespeare Company free production of Loves Labours Lost, at Edgerton Park, 75 Cliff St., New Haven, 8 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, Aug. 16-Sept. 2, live music at 7:30 p.m., suggested donation is $20, $10 students, $5 children 12 and under. Picnicking available, https://www.elmshakespeare.org/shakespeare-in-the-park.
ALBANY  New York took steps Tuesday to remove barriers for women and girls seeking abortion services, amid an intensifying information war over the issue.

Kicking off a public awareness campaign called "Know Your Options," Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the launch of a new state website, ny.gov/planning, designed to connect women to reproductive health care services and information that is comprehensive, confidential and medically accurate.

The move, he said, is a direct response to federal attacks on women's reproductive rights and so-called crisis pregnancy centers that have used deceptive advertising to ultimately dissuade women from pursuing an abortion.

"While the federal government wages war on women's reproductive rights, New York will fight back to protect women's access to comprehensive, safe and affordable health care," Cuomo said.

"In New York, we refuse to let President Trump and Washington take us backwards and jeopardize the rights of New Yorkers," he added. "We are launching this public awareness campaign to combat the insidious spread of misleading, medically inaccurate information about reproductive health and to ensure all New York women know the options they are legally entitled to."

Much of that inaccurate information comes from crisis pregnancy centers, according to medically backed research and pro-choice advocates.

These centers, often run by faith-based groups, have been criticized for using misleading advertising and offers of free pregnancy tests to lure vulnerable women to their offices. Once there, they dispense medically unsupported information abortion and birth control in an attempt to discourage women from ending their pregnancies and encourage abstinence until marriage, undercover investigations have found.

According to the state's new website, a quality family planning provider should:

Offer information about birth control, abortion, prenatal care, parenting and adoption without pressure or bias.

Have high standards of care as required in the NYS Family Planning Program and provide the most up to date scientifically-proven reproductive health services available without making you feel pressured.

Be licensed to provide services in New York and be able to tell you what kind of license they have. Health care providers that are licensed to care for women and deliver family planning services include obstetricians (OBs), licensed midwives, family practice doctors, and nurse practitioners (NPs) or physician assistants (PAs).

The announcement came several hours after state Attorney General Barbara Underwood announced she was challenging a federal policy that bars unaccompanied immigrant girls in federal custody from accessing abortion services.

Leading a coalition of 19 attorneys general, Underwood filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Court of Appeals arguing the policy violates the constitutional rights of women, as well as states' rights, and is urging the circuit court in Washington to affirm the district court's decision to grant a class-wide preliminary injunction blocking the policy.

The policy has been in place since March 2017, but only came to light in October 2017 after the federal Office for Refugee Resettlement blocked a minor named Jane Doe from accessing abortion services.

She successfully obtained a temporary restraining order against the office and a federal district court subsequently granted another temporary restraining order to prohibit the office from blocking access to two other minors, including a 17-year-old girl who became pregnant after she was raped.

The Office for Refugee Resettlement is the federal agency responsible for the care and custody of all unaccompanied immigrant minors, many of whom have been coming to the U.S. to flee abuse in their home countries.

The policy that was adopted required the director, Scott Lloyd, to personally review every minor's request for abortion services, even if the girl had complied with state requirements for obtaining an abortion in the state where she was housed.

He rejected every request, and ordered shelters not to transport the girls to doctors and to disclose their pregnancies to family members  over the wishes of some girls who feared reprisal.

In March 2018, a district court granted a motion for class certification and issued a class-wide preliminary injunction to stop the policy. The agency appealed to the D.C. Circuit.

The amicus brief was signed by attorneys general in New York, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and the District of Columbia.
The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office, which is prosecuting at least one person named in lawsuits alleging sexual assaults at Stockton University, said in a statement Tuesday that the office has two potential conflicts of interest, but they will not affect the investigation.

Stockton University President Harvey Kesselman's oldest daughter, Danielle Buckley, has worked for years as an assistant prosecutor in the office. She was promoted July 2 to chief assistant prosecutor of the Special Victims Unit -- which handles sexual assault cases.

"Chief Assistant Prosecutor Buckley has NEVER participated in these matters and during her tenure with the office has never participated in other matters that involved Stockton University," the prosecutor's office said in the statement. The office also noted that Assistant Prosecutor Aaron Witherspoon, the attorney handling the criminal case that stemmed from one incident at Stockton, is not under Buckley's supervision.

The second conflict is that Prosecutor Damon Tyner's wife, Nicole Milan-Tyner, is associate director of Stockton's Career Center.

"As a result Prosecutor Tyner has not had any involvement in the investigation or charging decision in these matters," the prosecutor's office said in the statement. "Matters that have been identified as conflicts for Prosecutor Tyner are handled by First Assistant Prosecutor Cary Shill."

Stockton University President Harvey Kesselman, left, and Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon Tyner.

NJ Advance Media asked about the two conflicts of interest on Monday after discussing the familial connections with legal experts. The prosecutor's office responded by issuing the public statement Tuesday.

The prosecutor's office said it informed the state Attorney General's Office and the state Division of Criminal Justice of the potential conflicts of interest, but didn't say when.

The attorney general's office declined to say when the conflicts were reported by the prosecutor's office. "A review is being conducted, in accordance with standard practice," said AG spokesman Peter Aseltine.

Robert R. Fuggi Jr., the Toms River attorney who filed the four lawsuits from young women claiming they were raped when freshmen at Stockton, said he wasn't shocked to hear from NJ Advance Media about the conflicts. He said it makes sense given the lack of sexual assault charges against one of the accused: Zachary Madle, 25.

"If there's an inherent conflict with the prosecutors office, I think the AG's office should step in and look at it and reopen these cases," he said.

Two law professors who specialize in attorney ethics said Monday that while these are not obvious, direct conflicts -- because the two attorneys are not directly involved in the case -- it is a kind of gray area that could need closer scrutiny.

"These kinds of conflicts are sort of institutional conflicts," said Rebecca Roiphe, a law professor at New York Law School who has written extensively about prosecutorial ethics.

"My personal opinion is not enough attention is paid to these connections. They can really affect how a prosecutor acts... These kinds of things can be insidious and make their way into decisions," she said.

Before the prosecutor's office issued the statement, both Roiphe and John Leubsdorf, a law professor at Rutgers Law School in Newark, said that Buckley's connection is more problematic than Tyner's and it could be wise for her to officially recuse herself, if just for the sake of transparency.

"If you represent the public, you may want to go above the law," Leubsdorf said Monday. "It's not like she is prosecuting the university, but the university has an interest in it and she has an interest in being on good terms with her father."

Stockton University is being sued by four young women who argue that the university did not do enough to protect them from or investigate sexual assaults. Leubsdorf said that it's possible charges or convictions of any of the young men who've been accused could affect those civil cases.

Plus, sexual assault charges are never good for a university's image. "Schools have an interest in covering these things up," Roiphe said.

Fuggi's first lawsuit claimed Madle, of North Wildwood, had raped a freshman twice when she was blacked out or drugged in February of 2015.

The second suit accused Madle of violently raping a woman, and the plaintiffs in the other two suits said male students raped them when they were incapacitated by alcohol or date-rape drugs, which may have been used at parties thrown by a rogue frat. Each suit named the university and Pi Kappa Phi -- the national organization that says it has no connection to the group that used its name in Galloway.

The bruises on a former Stockton student who said in the fourth lawsuit that she was raped twice by a student. (Provided photo)

None of the men have been charged with rape, but Madle was charged in April with invasion of privacy for posting videos on SnapChat of him touching the "intimate parts" of the "barely conscious" freshman on Feb. 15, 2017, according to authorities. His attorney, Steve Scheffler, said nothing inappropriate happened between Madle and his accusers.

Police had the videos and, according to Fuggi, DNA evidence from a rape kit, but no sexual assault charges have been filed. Asked why last week, Tyner said only that the invasion of privacy charge was "appropriate" given "the investigation thus far."

In its statement Tuesday, the prosecutor's office said that it took 14 months for Stockton police to file the invasion of privacy charge because the office was waiting on buccal swabs and DNA lab reports.

"The matter is still being actively investigated and a decision will be made as to what charges will be presented to the Grand Jury in the near future," the office said.

The prosecutor's office has declined to say whether it is leading any investigations into the other rape allegations. "Of the four, the two most recent matters are being investigated by Galloway Twp. Police Department. One incident was never reported to any law enforcement agency," the office said.

Roiphe said that most prosecutors do a good job at making sure that obvious personal or financial conflicts are handled appropriately, by assigning the case to another lawyer. But when the conflict is more abstract -- like an association with an institution -- it's more complicated.

Both Roiphe and Leubsdorf said they don't think that reassigning those cases to another prosecutor's office is necessary, except maybe in extreme circumstances.

Roiphe said she'd rather see internal safeguards within all prosecutors' offices -- like a review panel that would check on possible conflicts and, if they exist, keep a close eye on any decisions made in those cases.

"The smaller the community the more often this arises, because prosecutors are generally active, they're active in the community," she said of institutional conflicts.

After the prosecutor's statement Tuesday, Kesselman said in a statement that he was proud of his daughter and calling Milan-Tyner is a "valued member of the Stockton community."

"We are confident in the ability of the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office to properly and thoroughly investigate all complaints and we will continue to cooperate in any way we can," he said.

Rebecca Everett may be reached at reverett@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @rebeccajeverett. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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Galloway resident Ryan Mammoccio was surprised to see a Facebook post on his timeline late Monday night, apparently from a local police officer.

The post includes a photo of a no-nonsense-looking cop with a very personal message.

"Ryan, you dropped your phone when you decided to run from me tonight. Feel free to stop by Galloway Police Department to retrieve your phone."

The thing is, this cop is not an employee of Galloway Township police.

"We have not had any incidents involving us taking this individual's cellphone. This is a fake post. The officer does not work here and his uniform and badge do not resemble what is worn by any local agencies," explained Detective Lt. Joseph Picardi of the Galloway Police Department.

As it turns out, the whole affair was a prank by some of Mammoccio's friends who got ahold of his phone, he said Tuesday.

He's surprised by the amount of attention the post has received, including more than 350 shares and nearly 50 comments as of Tuesday afternoon.

"I was shocked," he said. "And it is still getting likes as we speak. I didn't know it would blow up like this."

He said he has his phone back and the police have not tried to contact him about the prank.

The photo of the stern officer has apparently turned up in other police-related posts on social media in the last year, officials told BreakingAC.

The photo is actually of a Seattle police officer named Eric Michl, who took the pic in 2017 as part of his effort to reunite a woman with her purse, according to a post by the Seattle Police Department.

A woman visiting the city from California approached Michl to report that she had left her purse in a ride-share vehicle and that the driver was refusing to return it. She offered to pay him an additional fare to bring it back, but he allegedly demanded more money.

After Michl tried unsuccessfully to get the driver on the phone, he texted him the photo of himself -- to prove he was a cop -- and warned him that he faced charges if he did not return the purse.

The driver quickly obliged.

Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @MattGraySJT. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us: nj.com/tips.
When someone you love can't take care of themselves, dealing with details we usually take for granted can be frustrating.

One reader who manages the affairs of his dad, an Alzheimer's patient who lives in an assisted living facility, hit a brick wall and asked Bamboozled for help.

He explained he needed a New Jersey state identification card for his dad.

"I haven't been able to find any useful information on the internet, and a searchable article on this topic would be very helpful for sons/daughters like myself who are tasked with the responsibility of taking care of all aspects of our parent's lives when they cannot care for themselves," said Al Chen in an email.

Al Chen shared his favorite photo of him and dad. This is how he wants to remember his dad, Chen said.

Chen said he believed the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) has rules that require the person seeking the ID to appear in person, something Chen understood was important for security and identity theft protections.

"However, my dad's Alzheimer's condition is so bad that we cannot take him out of the assisted living facility," he said. "What do I do?"

Chen said because he's hard of hearing, he wasn't able to call MVC directly to see if it could provide a solution.

We collected the necessary information about Chen's father and passed it over to MVC, asking if it could help Chen.

The very next day - which happened to be the same day the folks at MVC were busy with another massive computer crash - Chen heard from an MVC rep who was ready to help.

In short, the rep sent Chen the paperwork he needed to complete, and in a few weeks, his dad had his new ID.

The younger Chen agreed to participate in this story so others would have a resource - an online story - to help them learn what they needed to do for their loved ones.

So here goes:

Customers are required to physically appear at an MVC agency for license renewal or a non-driver ID.

This is so that identifying documents can be presented and a photo can be taken, said MVC spokesman Jim Hooker.

Hooker explained MVC's license renewal is every four years, and every eight years a new photo has to be taken.

But there are a couple of options for people who have challenges.

First, he said, medical extensions are available for customers who may be undergoing "temporary physical changes" as a result of treatment.

"Such an extension is valid for a period not to exceed one year past the expiration date of the customer's current license," he said.

This wasn't quite the right solution for Chen's dad. His license was up for renewal - it hadn't yet expired - but Chen only wanted a state identification card because his dad could no longer drive.

To get one, Hooker said, the applicant must present a doctor's note saying the person is undergoing treatment. The note doesn't have to explain what the medical condition is, but only that the person is under medical care.

If the person is able to come to MVC, they can simply present the note along with the non-expired license, and in these cases, a new photo doesn't have to be taken "until renewal at the expiration of the one-year extension," Hooker said.

The applicant also needs to show the 6-Point ID verification.

But what about people like Chen's father, who are unable to go out at all?

It is possible for someone else to request the license extension or a "persons with a disability non-driver ID card" on someone else's behalf, Hooker said.

All the person needs is a Power of Attorney to sign applications on the person's behalf, plus a completed form Form BA-207 - this can only be received in person at an MVC or if you call MVC at 609-292-6500 and request the form be mailed - plus bring along the doctor's note and the person's current license.

"The 6 Points of ID still must be provided, but can be provided through scanned or photocopied documents," Hooker said. "These kinds of extensions are handled through the normal course of MVC agency business. Agency employees will direct the customer to the right window."

So, dear readers, we hope you never need this information, but it's here if you ever do.

Have you been Bamboozled? Reach Karin Price Mueller at Bamboozled@NJAdvanceMedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KPMueller. Find Bamboozled on Facebook. Mueller is also the founder of NJMoneyHelp.com.

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They looked like thousands of generic shoes without any logos or labels.

But that was just the start of the ruse.

Federal authorities on Tuesday arrested five individuals charged in a scheme to import more than $70 million in counterfeit Nike Air Jordans through Port Newark from China.

The sneakers were manufactured to resemble various editions of Jordans, which typically retail for $190, but without any identifying markings so they would not be flagged by customs officials, authorities said. Fake logos were allegedly added to the shoes after they came through the port, and then the footwear was sold to people throughout the U.S.

Real Air Jordans. (Nike)

The five -- Miyuki Suen, Jian Min Huang and Kin Lui Chen, all of New York, and Songhua Qu and Fangrang Qu of Hicksville, N.Y. -- are accused of importing at least 42 shipping containers between 2016 and 2018, bringing in an estimated more than 380,000 pairs of sneakers. If convicted, they face up to 20 years in prison.

It is not an uncommon scam, officials say.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection last year seized $1 billion in counterfeit goods, and inspectors say they frequently come across shoes, handbags and other consumer goods that appear generic because there are no identifying brand names affixed to them. Those logos and names are then added after the items pass through customs, they said.

In one case, a shipment of Timberland boots had an insert glued over the logo on the bottom of the boot. An inspector discovered the ruse with a flick of a knife on the heel-side of the shoe.

Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TedShermanSL. Facebook: @TedSherman.reporter. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
Shaun Weiss, an actor known for playing goalie Greg "Goldie" Goldberg in the 1992 film "The Mighty Ducks," has been arrested for public intoxication in California, TMZ reports.

Weiss, 39, who was born in Montvale, is an actor and writer who also appeared on the short-lived NBC series "Freaks and Geeks."

Police told TMZ that Weiss was arrested in Oroville, in northern California, early Saturday morning for public intoxication. People reports that police found Weiss with a group of people allegedly high on drugs and displaying weird behavior "with a flashlight." He was reportedly released after spending a couple hours in a drunk tank.

A law enforcement official told People Weiss did not resist arrest and was "witty."

But Weiss has had other run-ins with police over the last few years. In 2017, the actor was arrested for possession of methamphetamine shortly after he was sentenced to 150 days in jail for stealing $151 in merchandise from an electronics store, the report said.

'The Mighty Ducks' Goalie Shaun Weiss Arrested for Public Intoxication https://t.co/HaF985u3HK -- TMZ (@TMZ) August 6, 2018

Weiss' "Mighty Ducks" character, Goldberg, became a top trend on Twitter Monday night upon news of the actor's arrest. Fans commented on the haggard, withered look of the mugshot from Weiss (see tweet above), who is turning 40 this month.

Shaun Weiss, at bottom, in 1996 in NBC's 'Mr. Rhodes.' (Gary Null)

Weiss starred as Goldberg in three different "Mighty Ducks" movies including "D2: The Mighty Ducks" in 1994 and "D3: The Mighty Ducks" in 1996.

He also had a regular role as Jake on the NBC series "Mr. Rhodes" in 1996 and 1997 and played Stuey Mandelker for a short time on "The Tony Danza Show" on the same network in 1997 and 1998. In 1999, he was back on NBC as Sean in "Freaks and Geeks."

Fans riffed on the state of Weiss' appearance in the mug shot with callbacks to his Goldberg character.

Young Goldberg reacting to his adult mugshot. pic.twitter.com/oVoeMsMFje -- Zach Heilprin (@ZachHeilprin) August 6, 2018

Goldberg from the mighty ducks



Then >>>> Nowhttps://t.co/8q1bB4vMXT pic.twitter.com/buo4dkSA65 -- Rob Lopez (@r0bato) August 6, 2018

Shaun Weiss who played goldberg on the #mightyducks movies was arrested. This is his mugshot. He is only 39 years old. Alcohol/meth have aged him 30 years. pic.twitter.com/qpCGJYNQCr -- Mike Williams (@Biggydawg315) August 6, 2018

Amy Kuperinsky may be reached at akuperinsky@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AmyKup or on Facebook.
Homicide detectives are investigating separate slayings that left two people dead in Newark Tuesday morning, law enforcement authorities confirmed.

A spokesperson for the Essex County Prosecutor's Office said a 25-year-old woman was the victim of a fatal shooting reported around 1 a.m. in the 900 block of Franklin Avenue in the city's North Ward.

The woman's name and hometown were not immediately available.

Just over eight hours later, the prosecutor's office said, a male victim was killed around 9 a.m. in the 300 block of West Market Street in the Central Ward.

Photos and videos posted to social media showed a heavy police presence at the site.

Newark come on it gotta get better than this. Someone got shot and killed @ the mini mall where I be @ on West market Street smdh Posted by Rodney Brooks on Tuesday, August 7, 2018

A prosecutor's office spokesperson did not have any additional information about the slayings when reached by email Tuesday morning.

Thomas Moriarty may be reached at tmoriarty@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter at @ThomasDMoriarty. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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A Jersey City police duty belt -- equipped with a firearm -- was found on a Jersey City street Sunday night, authorities confirmed.

The duty belt was found in the area of Linden and Princeton avenues at approximately 8:30 p.m. and was turned over to police, Jersey City police spokeswoman Kimberly Wallace-Scalcione said.

Police refused to release any other information on the incident, citing an internal affairs investigation into the incident.

A duty belt is worn by officers and regularly includes handcuffs, a gun holster, a flashlight; and it can also hold chemical irritant or a taser.

This story has been updated to state the belt was found at Linden and Princeton avenues.
It's official. Tommy's Italian Sausage & Hot Dogs in Elizabeth is New Jersey's best hot dog joint.

The walk-up hot dog stand, in the city's Peterstown section, bested nine other finalists in our epic month-and-a-half long search.

'"I was thinking I was not going to win, tell you the honest truth,'' said a jubilant Tommy Parrinello, owner of Tommy's Italian Sausage & Hot Dogs. ''There are a lot of hot dog guys.''

Elizabeth Mayor J. Christian Bollwage was among those to stop by and congratulate Parrinello.

"Your father would have loved this,'' Bollwage said of Tommy Parrinello, who opened the stand in 1969. "If you grew up in Elizabeth, you always came to Tommy's and Jerry's.''

Jerry's Famous Frankfurters, another Jersey hot dog landmark, is steps from Tommy's.

It's never easy picking a winner in one of our N.J.'s best showdowns, but this was particularly tough, with all 10 finalists masters/magicians in what they do, whether grilled, deep-fried or dirty water dogs; chili dogs, Italian hot dogs or dogs with varying (and often unusual) toppings.

But Tommy's stood out for its Italian hot dog, as perfect a sandwich as can be found in New Jersey, with the bread, potatoes, peppers, onions and mustard in complete harmony. The potatoes? Hot and crispy, and no one does them better.

LIVE REVEAL: What is the best hot dog joint in New Jersey? Pete Genovese and Jess Remo are revealing the #NJsbest winner now. Posted by NJ.com on Tuesday, August 7, 2018

Cops and firemen apparently love the place; they were in abundance on both my visits to Tommy's. The "neighborhood feel'' to Tommy's was unmatched in this competition.

Tommy Parrinello opened the stand, on 2nd Avenue across from Olympia Square, on July 5, 1969.

"Our father would never let us forget the date,'' Tommy Parrinello, his son and the current owner, said, laughing.

The elder Parrinello started off selling just sausage, but added hot dogs because Jerry's Famous Frankfurters, steps away, started selling sausage, too.

"I love feeding people,'' Tommy Parrinello, the current owner, said. "My father would always say, give them the best, they'll always come back.''

A neon sign proclaims "World's Greatest Chili Hot Dogs,'' but you go to Tommy's for an Italian hot dog. You can get it as a single (one hot dog, plus peppers and onions) double (two hot dogs and the rest). Feeling brave? You can even order a triple Italian hot dog, for those either seriously hungry or seriously not caring what their doctor thinks.

A Best all-beef hot dog is used, along with Idaho potatoes, fried in soybean oil. They're so good you can buy them by the cup, bypassing the bread, peppers and onions altogether.

Within walking distance are two Jersey food landmarks - Di Cosmo's Italian Ice, and Spirito's.

The judges who served in an advisory capacity on our visit to Tommy's (I alone made the final decision) strained for superlatives in their evaluation of Tommy's.

Lisa Bicocchi said Tommy's "hit it out of the park,'' and singled out the "great, fresh Italian bread taste,'' the hot dog's "wonderful but subtle garlicky/spicy flavor,'' the "fresh and sweet peppers,'' and the potatoes, which were "perfection.''

Raymond McGillick said the Italian hot dog "was everything I expected of a first-class Italian hot dog and more.''

Joelle Bacino called the potatoes "amazing - crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, sliced thin . . . I could have eaten an entire bucket.''

John Fox admired the "fresh'' bread, and said Tommy's potatoes "are better than any other place serving this sandwich.''

Our epic search for N.J.'s best hot dog joint began in mid-June with a call for nominations. More than 100 places were nominated; every one was put on a ballot, divided into four regions - North I, North II, Central Jersey and South Jersey/The Shore. (There are so few hot dog joints in South Jersey that we combined South Jersey and the Shore.)

About 30,000 people voted; the top six vote-getters in each region became 24 of our semifinalists; I picked the other 26. I visited all 50 semifinalists over three weeks, then picked 10 finalists, which were re-visited with teams of assistant judges.

In all, I drove 3,590 miles, sampled 150-plus hot dogs and somehow lost two pounds.

Kudos to all our finalists; you all are great at what you do. You can find semifinal and final round reports, including tons of mouth-watering photos, at nj.com/jerseysbest.

Here are the other nine finalists:

Andys' Roadside Dive, Mt. Arlington

Destination Dogs, New Brunswick

Hiram's Roadstand, Fort Lee

Hot Diggidy Dog, Chatsworth

The Hot Grill, Clifton

Maui's Dog House, North Wildwood

Randy the Hot Dog Guy, Hillside

Relish, Belmar

Rutt's Hut, Clifton

Peter Genovese may be reached at pgenovese@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter at @PeteGenovese or via The Munchmobile @NJ_Munchmobile. Find the Munchmobile on Facebook and Instagram.
A 31-year-old man was charged last week in connection with a July 31 bank robbery in Ocean Township, authorities said.

Spiros Bardis, of Bradley Beach, allegedly entered the Bank of America around 10 a.m. wearing a motorcycle helmet and passed a note to a teller, demanding money. The teller surrendered about $700 before Bardis fled the scene on a white motorcycle, according to Chris Swendeman, a spokesperson for the Monmouth County Prosecutor's office. The bank is located at 1100 State Highway 35.

Spiros Bardis, 31, of Bradley Beach, was arrested and cha https://t.co/vCy5cdOsp3 rged Friday evening in connection with an Ocean Twp. bank robbery on July 31, 2018. #mcponj  Monmouth Prosecutor (@MonCoProsecutor) August 6, 2018

The Monmouth County Correctional Institution has held Bardis since his arrest and if he is convicted of robbery, he will face up to 10 years in prison.

Cassidy Grom may be reached at cgrom@njadvancemedia.com Follow her at @cassidygrom. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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Lehigh County District Jim Martin. (lehighvalleylive.com file photo)

Lehigh County's district attorney has charged an officer with voluntary manslaughter after fatally shooting a man near Dorney Park.

District Attorney Jim Martin announced Tuesday that Officer Jonathan Roselle would face the charge in the July 28 shooting that killed Joseph Santos.

Roselle was arraigned Tuesday afternoon and was ordered held without bail.

Santos, 44, of Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, was shot five times on the side of Hamilton Boulevard (Route 222) near the Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom amusement park in South Whitehall Township.

Martin made the announcement Tuesday at a news conference in the county courthouse in Allentown, where he was joined by U.S. Attorney William McSwain and South Whitehall police Chief Glen Dorney.

After police shot and killed a man outside Dorney Park, the Lehigh County district attorney is discussing the July 28 incident at a news conference. Watch it live here. Posted by lehighvalleylive.com on Tuesday, August 7, 2018

The decision comes after the Allentown branch of the NAACP demanded Martin step aside, the officer involved be fired and the South Whitehall police department hire more minority officers.

South Whitehall Township police officer Jonathan Roselle.

Roselle was placed on paid administrative leave while Pennsylvania State Police and the Lehigh County District Attorney's Office investigated the incident. He joined the South Whitehall Township Police Department last year.

Authorities said Santos was behaving bizarrely that evening, clinging to moving vehicles and ripping the window out of one.

Santos, his fiancee and her son were visiting Dorney Park that day. Juliana Valenzuela said she noticed Santos was missing from the park and assumed he left to get cigarettes.

Witness video posted to Facebook last week shows someone who appears to be Santos riding on the outside of a car and a police SUV before the shooting.

There were several calls to Lehigh County 911 about a man interfering with traffic and reportedly jumping on cars. Police arrived about 5:45 p.m.

Martin said Tuesday a woman pulled over to a police vehicle and reported a man tried to get into her vehicle.

Martin said the officer went to Santos and found him bleeding. Santos jumped on the vehicle and banged on the window, the district attorney said. The officer had his department-issued firearm unholstered, and ordered the man off the vehicle, Martin said.

In that video posted on Facebook, Santos is seen approaching the police car, then backing away.

The officer yells repeatedly for Santos to get on the ground but Santos is seen walking casually up to the officer, who has parked by the side of the road. The officer, who continues to yell at Santos to get on the ground, fires five shots and Santos drops forward to the ground.

Santos was not armed, police said.

Soon after Santos has been shot, a second officer begins CPR. An ambulance arrives a few minutes later and he is rushed to Lehigh Valley Hospital in Salisbury Township.

Santos died from multiple gunshot wounds and his death was ruled a homicide by the Lehigh County Coroner's Office.

Protestors held a vigil four days after the shooting, saying Santos' actions didn't warrant a "death sentence."

"While the indictment is important we know that many police are indicted but not found guilty and as a community we demand that all necessary resources be provided to ensure a conviction," said Adanjesus Marin, Director of Make the Road PA. The organization organized the vigil and represents the interests of Latino and Latina individuals.

In the letter from the NAACP, branch members said the officer should not have used lethal force.

"The branch declares that it cannot tolerate this individual as a police officer and respectfully demands that his badge and gun be immediately removed from him and that he be separated from the police force for the wrongful and unlawful killing of Joseph Santos, an unarmed civilian," the letter states. "The NAACP Allentown Branch will not rest until this individual is no longer a menace patrolling the streets with the power of a badge and gun and is determined to continue all lawful protests and legal actions until the demands herein are met. The branch has determined that members of the public are not safe while this individual continues to carry a badge and gun."

Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
UPDATE: 'Justice for Joey' demanded after arrest of alleged killer cop (VIDEO)



After shooting a man five times on the side of Hamilton Boulevard, a South Whitehall Township officer reportedly told other officers he "f---- up."

Now, 33-year-old officer Jonathan Roselle is facing a criminal charge in connection with the July 28 fatal shooting of 44-year-old Joseph Santos.

Roselle, of Parryville, Carbon County, surrendered to authorities Tuesday afternoon, and was arraigned on the single charge of voluntary manslaughter.

South Whitehall Township police officer Jonathan Roselle. (Source: South Whitehall Township Police Department Facebook page)

He was released on $75,000 unsecured bail; Martin said he is not considered to be a flight risk.

Martin said the investigation "has disclosed no facts" which would show there was police brutality or racism involved in the fatal shooting.

"This was the act of a relatively inexperienced officer, who held a subjective fear for his own safety, but made a decision which objectively was unreasonable in light of the facts as they existed and appeared at the time he discharged his weapon and killed Mr. Santos," Martin said.

Roselle is an Army veteran who served in Afghanistan and is currently a major in the National Guard.

He graduated from the Allentown Police Academy in December, and had 13 weeks of training after that, but had been on patrol by himself for less than five months, Martin said.

Gavin Holihan, one of the attorneys representing Roselle, issued a statement after the district attorney's announcement.

"While the loss of a life is always unfortunate, it is not always unjustified. Police officers face challenges every shift that may require split second decisions. Those decisions are then calmly reviewed, with 20/20 hindsight, by the criminal justice system, those in political office, the media and the public," the statement said.

"Officer Roselle believes now, as he did on July 28, that his actions were justified and appropriate based on the facts and circumstances evident at the time. He respects the system of justice he has sworn to uphold and he eagerly awaits the opportunity to be heard at trial. He believes that when all of the evidence is presented publicly, any fair citizen will reach the same conclusion he reached: that the deadly force used on July 28 was justified and appropriate."

Body camera footage

The district attorney said there is audio and video footage of the shooting from the dashboard camera and body camera worn by Roselle, and he would like to release it to the media, but would not now that there is an active criminal investigation.

Martin's office asked for an extension Thursday before acting on a right-to-know request filed by lehighvalleylive.com for the dashboard and body camera footage.

Facebook videos from witnesses both before and during the shooting have been widely circulated in the meantime.

On Tuesday, Martin provided more details about what led to Santos and Roselle meeting on the side of the road.

After police shot and killed a man outside Dorney Park, the Lehigh County district attorney is discussing the July 28 incident at a news conference. Watch it live here. Posted by lehighvalleylive.com on Tuesday, August 7, 2018

Martin said Roselle was monitoring traffic at Lincoln Avenue and Hamilton Boulevard, about 1 1/2 blocks south of where the shooting occurred on Hamilton Boulevard (Route 222) by the Comfort Suites and across the street from Dorney Park.

A "hysterical and frantic" woman pulled alongside the officer's passenger side, and reported a man tried to get into her vehicle while she was driving on Hamilton Boulevard. Martin noted this was the only incident Roselle was aware of, when he drove over and made contact with Santos.

Roselle made a U-turn and found a bleeding man that was later identified as Santos.

Santos banged on Roselle's driver's side window, and jumped on the hood of the police SUV and banged on the windshield, Martin said.

"Clearly this is somewhat bizarre behavior," the DA said.

The officer called the dispatch center to report the incident and, while his duty weapon was unholstered, repeatedly issued commands from inside the SUV to Santos.

Roselle told dispatch the man "might have mental issues," according to Martin, and that he would wait for backup.

Santos walked away a short distance, less than 100 feet, and then walked back, Martin said.

Roselle might have been in danger of "some injury," and believed Santos was a danger to himself or others.

But Santos walked away from the police vehicle, and, when he turned around, he walked toward the officer. Santos was ordered to get on the ground, which he ignored, and began walking toward the officer.

"He was not running or rushing toward the officer. He did not have anything visible in hands, he was not clenching his fists, he did not present a threatening posture. He was plainly not armed with any type of weapon," Martin said.

Santos is heard saying to Roselle, who had his weapon unholstered and pointed at Santos, "Don't do it."

Roselle opened fire, shooting Santos five times, Martin said.

Roselle's back up arrived and CPR was performed on Santos. Santos was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest in Salisbury Township, where he was pronounced dead.

While investigators are awaiting toxicology reports, Santos' cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds and his death was ruled a homicide, Martin said.

"I offer my sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Santos," Martin said.

What is voluntary manslaughter?

Martin said he approved the voluntary manslaughter charge, rather than third-degree murder, because murder requires malice.

Malice can be inferred from using a deadly weapon to kill someone, but Martin said there can be no malice when there is a killing in the heat of passion following a serious provocation, or when the defendant is under an unreasonable or mistaken belief of justifiable circumstances.

Without malice, Martin said the voluntary manslaughter charge made the most sense in this case because Roselle mistakenly believed he was justified in using deadly force.

Roselle believed he was in some imminent danger, but after analyzing the incident, the belief to use lethal force was unreasonable and not justified, Martin said.

Roselle told the first officer to arrive that Santos kept coming at him, but the officer was not "in danger of imminent seriously bodily injury or death," Martin said.

In addition to his department-provided firearm, Roselle had an expandable baton, pepper spray and a stun gun, Martin noted.

The district attorney said at a news conference the night of the shooting said the officer "had to discharge his weapon."

"That was obviously at that stage of the investigation a poor, very poor, choice of phrasing, but it was exactly that," Martin said. "It did not, and does not, indicate I had a bias examining the facts."

Roselle told the first officer to arrive at the scene he "f----- up," and then repeated that statement to other officers, according to Martin.

The district attorney discussed the parameters for justified deadly force, including if deadly force will prevent death or serious injury to the officer or others, or if the person is committing a forcible felony.

Martin said Santos was not armed, and there was no evidence he committed or attempted a forcible felony.

If the case goes to trial, prosecutors' will have to prove Roselle had the intent to kill, Martin said. If found guilty, the charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in state prison.

Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
It is one of the tougher decisions a mental health professional has to make.

How do you determine when or if you should alert police about a patient who may pose a danger to themselves or others, knowing that the patient is confiding in you?

The protocol is called "Duty to Warn" and it is one of the few circumstances when a mental health practitioner can break confidentiality and use their discretion when a patient makes a threat.

But a bill -- recently passed by the state Legislature and signed by Gov. Phil Murphy on June 13 -- upends the "Duty to Warn" guidelines and now requires mental health professionals in New Jersey to always call authorities when a suicide threat or a threat against another person is made.

"If someone is imminently suicidal, and there is no risk of guns, a large number of people are going to be reported to the chief of police unnecessarily," said James S. Wulach, a Springfield Township-based psychologist and the former president of the New Jersey Psychological Association (NJPA).

The intent of the bill, according to one of its sponsors, is to get guns out of the hands of anyone threatening harm to themselves or others. Under the bill, law enforcement can potentially take away the guns of patients who pose a threat or prevent them from obtaining firearms in the future.

The amendment was part of a package of six gun-safety bills seeking to make New Jersey "among the states with the strongest and most formidable gun laws in the nation," according to the state's announcement of the new measures.

The change has reverberated throughout the state's community of mental health professionals, with prominent psychologists and one of the state's leading psychological associations expressing concern about the possible unintended consequences.

Many mental health experts believe the measure could undermine the understood trust between therapist and patient, giving the appearance that therapists are working too closely with police.

Ultimately, they fear the measure could deter patients from seeking treatment altogether while thrusting law enforcement into the field of mental healthcare.

"Usually these kinds of suicidal cases have been handled by a mental health professional or between the hospital and the patient," said Wulach, who is also a practicing attorney.

Wulach added that the measure is "creating an environment where the therapist is like an auxiliary to the chief of police."

The bill requires mental health professionals to contact authorities -- specifically the chief of police of the patient's local police department -- even if the patient does not reference firearms or has access to them.

Assemblywoman Patricia Egan Jones (D-Camden), the lead sponsor of the bill, said in a statement that the new law "closes a dangerous loophole in which mental health professionals were required to notify the potential targets of violence but not law enforcement."

"Closing this loophole is critical to protecting our families from the epidemic of gun violence," she added.

However, Gianni Pirelli, a Verona-based clinical and forensic psychologist, said, while this is a central concern for mental health professionals, "No leaders in the field think this is the recommendation."

"It risks a significant level of potentially stigmatizing and deterring people with mental health treatment," Pirelli said. "The biggest hurdle is getting people into treatment and getting them to come back for a second visit."

Suicide rates have been on the rise nationwide and in New Jersey over the years, with a nearly 20-percent increase between 1999 and 2016, according to data released in June by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Most states in the U.S. have also seen a spike in suicides in that same period.

State Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumter, D-Passaic, another sponsor of the bill, also said, "The deterrent of mass shootings through reporting far outweighs repercussions."

However, she added that she is committed "to working with these experts to ensure treatment remains a viable option for patients."

In response to Sumter's assertion that the measure will help prevent mass shootings, Pirelli added, "laws like this are based on emotion and not science."

He also asked how law enforcement will handle a patient's confidentiality, and whether there will be some sort of record kept if a duty to warn is triggered.

"Now we are putting our clients out there that could have additional repercussions for them," Pirelli said.

Stephanie Coyne, president of the New Jersey Psychological Association (NJPA), which had suggested amendments to the bill over the years, said that the NJPA "wants to ensure that the motivation of the public to seek mental healthcare is not stifled or deterred in any way."

"We also want to encourage and allow for mental health providers to explore a person's symptoms in-depth, without concern that patients are being guarded during therapy to avoid triggering this reporting," she added.

The governor's office declined to comment.

Wulach said a better way of pursuing this would be to require the psychologist to find out about the patient's access to guns instead of calling police on a patient who may not even have access to firearms.

"If somebody in the house owns a gun, then that could trigger a duty to call," he said.

Spencer Kent may be reached at skent@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent. Find the Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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(Above: These photos are from the summer of last year, when many trains were routed because of track repairs. That so-called "season of hell" turned out to be peanuts compared to Gov. Murphy's first summer after promising to fix NJ Transit.)

As I've noted, our governor is a great fan of cliches.

Two come to mind as I ponder the spectacle of Phil Murphy vacationing at his villa in Italy as NJ Transit commuters go through what many call "a season of hell."

The first of course is the one about the emperor Nero fiddling while Rome burns.

That certainly seems more appropriate than the second. That's the one about how Benito Mussolini may have been a cruel dictator but "at least he made the trains run on time."

That doesn't apply to Murphy. After making the sorry conditions at NJ Transit into a major campaign issue, Murphy has let those conditions become even worse.

And I'm not talking about just the big things, like the cancellations of dozens of trains on an almost daily basis.

Even the little things are as bad as ever. On a recent Saturday I took the North Jersey Coast Line from its southern terminus in Bay Head up to Asbury Park. As we pulled out of the station, the electronic sign in the front of the car read "Next Stop Point Pleasant Beach."

So far so, good. But after we left Point Pleasant Beach the sign still read, "Next Stop Point Pleasant Beach." And the next and the next, all the way to Asbury Park.

I am fortunate enough to take the train on only a sporadic basis. But that sort of thing is a common experience, said one guy who has no car and relies on NJ Transit to get around.

That's David Peter Alan of the passenger-advocacy group the Lackawanna Coalition. Alan, who lives in South Orange, told me that these days he has difficulty determining what train is going where and when.

"For the first time, under Murphy I don't know from one day to the next whether my train will run," he said. "They don't always tell you on the website but sometimes they tell you on the ap."

That's the I-phone ap. Usually, it's fairly reliable. But what about that old-fashioned paper schedule that many people rely on? That's become totally useless as NJ Transit cancels as many as 18 trains a day.

The Murphy people blame his predecessor Chris Christie for neglecting Transit. But Alan said things are even worse under Murphy.

"With Christie you knew you were gonna get screwed, but at least they ran the schedule," he said. "They didn't annul trains at random like this."

There's a good reason the system is under pressure this summer. NJ Transit has to meet a December deadline for installing a safety system called "positive train control" on all its rolling stock.

The company also needs to hire more engineers. That hits especially hard in summer when many crew members take vacation.

But it's hard to respond to this sort of thing when you're off at your estate in Umbria.

Last week, Murphy's Twitter account sent a message stating that "NJ Transit is the largest statewide public transit system in the U.S," one that moves more than a million riders a day.

It included this shot at his predecessors: "After years of neglect, we are making bold reinvestments."

He certainly got the "years of neglect" part right, Alan said.

But as for the bold reinvestments, "I can't think of anything," said Alan.

Neither can I. But I can recall what he said in January when he introduced Kevin Corbett, whose background was in shipping, to head the rail agency:

"Starting today, we will begin to measure success by actually getting better, not because New Jersey Transit didn't actually get any worse."

By that measure, Murphy's failing. It's not difficult to deduce why. If I employ yet another cliche, a man can't serve two masters.

The masters in Murphy's case are the public and the public employee unions. Murphy has a habit of sharing the podium at his press conference with union leaders.

It certainly makes sense to have good relations with the unions. But by law and by contract, the first priority of the union leadership is to serve the union members, not the public. A governor who's doing his job would put the public first and therefore have an adversarial relationship with the unions.

With transit, as with other issues, Murphy seems more interested in building support in the Democratic Party for some future national run.

But he's never going to get there if he can't make the trains run on time.

Perhaps they still do so in Italy.

But the problem's here in Jersey.

ADD - At LEAST SOME DEMOCRATS ARE ADDRESSING THE ISSUE:

While Murphy's been giving sound bites, some legislative Democrats have been looking at real reforms. One is state Sen. Loretta Weinberg of Bergen County. Weinberg has become a champion of commuters She crafted a bill that passed the Senate that would change the NJ Transit board so riders finally get some representation.

From the statement for the bill:

"The bill establishes five new positions on NJ Transit's board of directors, and restructures the existing board so that all public members are required to either have experience as regular public transportation riders or have expertise in human resources, real estate investment or development, or certain transportation topics. In order to be considered to have experience as a regular public transportation rider, a member is required to have been a public transportation rider in three of the five years preceding the member's appointment or reappointment to the board."
WASHINGTON -- When he first ran for the U.S. Senate, Cory Booker received more money from the pro-Israel community than any other candidate.

Now Booker is facing criticism for posing with pro-Palestinian activists who support boycotting the Jewish state.

In the photo, Booker is holding a sign equating Israel's security barrier built to stop Palestinian terrorist bombings and President Donald Trump's proposed wall across the U.S.-Mexico border. It says: "From Palestine to Mexico, all the walls have got to go."

The picture was taken at the Netroots conference in New Orleans, a yearly gathering of progressives, where Booker delivered a keynote address.

Excited to be here at Netroots Nation talking with progressives like Sen. Cory Booker about our shared commitment to freedom, justice, and equality for all people. #NN18 pic.twitter.com/ljswLmv32w  US Campaign for Palestinian Rights (@USCPR_) August 3, 2018

"Like so many other Americans, we were shocked to see Senator Booker in a photo holding a sign that equated the wall between the U.S. and Mexico to the barrier Israel constructed, which has successfully halted suicide bombers from wreaking more havoc on Israeli citizens," the Simon Wiesenthal Center, which fights anti-Semitism and provides Holocaust education, said in a statement Tuesday, asking Booker for some clarification.

"We understand that the senator does not fully grasp what the sign said," the center said. "We look forward to his clarification on these and other issues related to the Middle East."

Rabbi Abraham Cooper, associate dean and director of global social action for the Wiesenthal Center, told NJ Advance Media: "We're going to assume this doesn't reflect Senator Booker's views on the Middle East so please let us know what are your views."

"Because of that image, which is going to be around forever, Senator Booker has an opportunity and responsibility to just clarify specifics on these related issues," Cooper said.

The center made the request of Booker as "a leading American political figure who has been touted as a future president."

Booker spokesman Jeff Giertz said the senator was asked by several people to pose for photos at the conference.

"In one instance, amid the rush, he was posing for a photo and was passed a sign to hold -- he didn't have time to read the sign, and from his cursory glance he thought it was talking about Mexico and didn't realize it had anything to do with Israel," Giertz said.

The Wiesenthal Center said Booker should clarify his stance on issues such as the security barrier between Israel and the West Bank and the anti-Israel boycott, divestiture and sanctions movement, which wants to expel Israel from the United Nations, prevent investments in Israeli-owned companies, and stop Israeli teams from participating in international competitions.

Giertz, Booker's spokesman, said the senator "hopes for a day when there will be no need for security barriers in the state of Israel, but while active terrorist organizations threaten the safety of the people living in Israel, security barriers are unfortunate but necessary to protect human lives."

Booker has called the boycott movement "anti-Jewish."

He received $434,126 from the pro-Israel community for his special election in 2013 and general election in 2014, more than any other federal lawmaker, according to the Center for Responsive Politics, a Washington-based research group.

He split with many pro-Israel activists when he voted for an agreement to curb Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for relaxing economic sanctions. Trump unilaterally withdrew from the multinational agreement and reimposed sanctions on Iran.

He also opposed legislation designed to block U.S. companies from declining to do business with Israel, and to reduce funding for the Palestinian Authority until it stops paying terrorists' families.

Booker's second-biggest lifetime source of campaign donors is the Englewood Cliffs-based pro-Israel political action committee NORPAC, which has raised or given $158,871 to his Senate campaigns.

The head of NORPAC, Ben Chouake, called the picture a rare mistake on Booker's part, and also suggested that the senator speak out.

"The picture looks so bad it definitely requires him to come out with a statement in terms of explanation: This is where I stand. This is what i beileve in," Chouake said in an interview.

The founder of the Wiesenthal Center, Rabbi Martin Heir, spoke at Trump's inauguration in January 2017. He later criticized Trump for saying there was "blame on both sides" for the deadly August 2017 march by neo-Nazis and white supremacists in Charlottesville, Virginia. One person was killed when a Nazi sympathizer drove his car into a group of counterprotesters.

"The president of the United States has an obligation not to equate the other demonstrators with Nazis and Klansmen who want an America without Jews, without African-Americans and without Latinos," Hier told the Israeli newspaper Haaretz shortly after the demonstration.

Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JDSalant or on Facebook. Find NJ.com Politics on Facebook.
When the E-ZPass transponder malfunctioned in a car driven by a New York woman and her husband, they were unable to pay the $3.25 toll.

But when the violation notice came in the mail, the tab topped $200.

They were billed $220, $3.25 for the missed tolls and $217 in administrative fees.

They weren't the only drivers outraged.

The agency now faces a class action lawsuit over its violation fees. The lawsuit contends the New Jersey Turnpike Authority has overcharged drivers since the fee was raised in 2011 to $50, because the costs to process a violation is about $25. Almost four million drivers have been overcharged $185.6 million over six years, the suit said.

The late fee was last straw for Sarah Radafshar, who complained on Twitter and posted one of four violation notices totaling over $220. The authority ultimately waived the violation fee, but the high amount still annoys her.

"If they're charging an administrative fee, they should repurpose the money into better machines that will pick-up our E-ZPass tags," said Radafshar, who added she supports the lawsuit.

The lawsuit is currently before a state appeals court and a federal court. It demands a roll back of the fee, refunds to drivers who overpaid and a do-over of the 2011 legal process that raised the fees from $25 to $50.

"We are requesting the court recognize that NJTA's raising of the administrative fee from $25 to $50 in 2011 was illegal," said attorney Matthew Faranda-Diedrich, who is representing the driver suing the authority.

The authority's 2011 financial analysis was flawed because it did not include the savings, and expenses that were eliminated in 2010, the suit said. It cites a May 2012 email from a Turnpike Authority financial manager that said the processing cost dropped due to a new contract.

The Turnpike Authority contends the increase was necessary to cover costs.

Turnpike Authority officials reiterated arguments this month that were made in 2011 and repeated in May 2017 after two drivers unsuccessfully appealed the fees and the process used to justify them. That case is before the appellate court.

Spokesman Tom Feeney said the authority stands by a financial analysis that contends the actual processing cost is over $51 and that the $50 violation fee is reasonable. In that defense of the original fee challenge, authority officials argued that the cost spiked to $80 per violation in 2017 because there are more toll violators now.

The authority also said in 2017 that the administrative fee includes the costs of toll lane maintenance, toll collection equipment, the fiber optic network, maintaining that equipment, transponder and staff costs, according to an answer filed in the state register.

Nationally, other toll agencies charge administrative fees that are 95 percent less than the Turnpike Authority, with some charging $5 and others charging no fee, if the toll is paid in 10 days,

Representatives of the National Motorists Association, a driver's rights group, said the fees should be revised, based on the arguments in the suits.

"As our national organization sued the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission this year for exorbitant tolls used to make unrelated statutory payments to the state, we resonate with the suits filed against the NJTA," said Steve Carrellas, National Motorists Association state policy director.

Drivers with a valid E-ZPass account should get a break from fees, especially for mistakes made by the system or the process, he said. Typically, E-ZPass account holders are only charged for a toll if there is a an issue. A driver who goes through an E-ZPass lane after the credit card used to pay tolls has expired is treated the same as a violator.

"If you are an account holder in good standing, you shouldn't have to pay a violation fee if you somehow get a violation notice," Carrellas said. "If something is repeated that is the fault of the user, it should be a smaller fee for things that aren't an intentional violation."

Larry Higgs may be reached at lhiggs@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @commutinglarry. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
A Indiana man transporting more than four pounds of heroin through New Jersey was arrested in the parking lot of a Route 22 clothing store last week after authorities were tipped off about the drug shipment.

Noel Ramiro Hernandez, of Indianapolis, was charged with possession of heroin and possession with intent to distribute after being taken into custody outside a business on the westbound side of the highway in Union, the county prosecutor's office said Monday.

Investigators spotted an SUV heading east on Interstate 78 on Thursday and followed it to the parking lot in Union, officials said. The heroin was hidden in a rear speaker of the vehicle.

The roughly 4.4 pounds of heroin is equivalent to more than 100,000 individual doses, authorities noted.

The bust was a result of a joint investigation between the Union County Prosecutor's Office, the FBI and Union County police. The Union County Police Department assisted.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JeffSGoldman. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
As the Tennessee Williams Theatre Company of New Orleans opens its fourth season this month, and in conjunction with the tricentennial of the city, the troupe will focus on a trio of works by its eponymous playwright that are set in his adopted home.

A lesser-known work, "Vieux Carre" is a fitting way to begin such a survey as it depicts the origins of how Williams found his artistic and spiritual home in New Orleans.

Told as a memory play, "Vieux Carre" can be considered a sequel of sorts to "The Glass Menagerie," with Tom now becoming "the Writer," who narrates the quasi-autobiographical story. Having left St. Louis and gone "farther than the moon," he lands in the French Quarter. Although Williams is not quite channeling James Joyce, the play might well be subtitled "Portrait of the Influences on the Artist as a Young Man." "Vieux Carre" is a Kunstlerroman, depicting many of the characters and experiences that young Thomas Williams would encounter, all of which would provide him with a lifetime of material, and shape him into the artist Tennessee Williams.

What:

Though not written until 1976, the material for "Vieux Carre" is cobbled together from several short stories and one-act pieces from decades earlier. The result is both part of the play's appeal, as well as its chief flaw. With its meandering nature, it is not driven by a dramatic arc, but instead offers a blending of colorfully drawn vignettes.

It is in that assortment of eccentric French Quarter characters that director Beau Bratcher polishes the little gems that make up the best parts of "Vieux Carre." Without a strong enough structure or plot, however, energy lags in the second act as it crawls to the three-hour mark.

The play is set in a run-down boarding house at 722 Toulouse St. (the actual address where Williams once lived) in 1938-39, a time when the French Quarter was still more slum than artists' colony.

Jake Bartush plays the Writer with a shy naivete, absorbing the scene and the people he encounters until it fuels his artistic vision. It is a difficult role in that the Writer is such a passive figure, but Bartush enlivens him with shades of emotion as his awareness of the world around him develops.

Projecting a youthful appeal to all who meet him, Bartush maintains the Writer's romantic soul of the poet while also a gaining a wisdom of the streets. As he becomes involved with the many dramas of his fellow tenants, there is a covert cunning to his character; seemingly sympathetic, he always actually remains at arm's length tucking away their tales for later use.

Bratcher most strongly brings out the two key relationships the Writer develops: with his landlady, the ferocious Mrs. Wire; and with an older tenant, Nightingale, a tubercular artist.

Tracey E. Collins could have taken the easy route, making Mrs. Wire a one-note harpy while still effectively capturing the character. A relentless snoop, she sleeps on a cot in the front hallway to watch the comings and goings from her house, which she imagines as one of the grand, historic homes of the French Quarter. But Collins plumbs deeper, going beyond the madcap eccentricity (she provides the funniest moments of the play) to unveil an aching maternal figure, revealing someone as sad and lonely as any of the boarders in the crowded house.

If "Vieux Carre" can be said to have an overriding theme, it is the sense of loneliness in a crowded world. All of the characters are living lives of desperation, each finding temporary means of respite.

The character of Nightingale is one through whom the older Williams rebukes his younger self, the callow youth who had grown callous. Denying that he is dying, Nightingale searches for human connection - call it love or not. When he fails to get a "cousin" that he's picked up on the street past Mrs. Wire, he preys upon the sensitive Writer. It is a role that even in the 1970s would have been seen as grossly stereotypical, more suitable for laughs than pity.

Kyle Daigrepont, however, is revelatory in the role. He imbues within Nightingale an inherent dignity, reminiscent of the similar aspect he brought to his performance several years ago as Harold in "The Boys in the Band." Daigrepont's Nightingale is a man who knows who he is and despite whatever regrets he may have, he's not ready to give up on his life. It is a deeply moving performance.

The most discomforting relationship of the play is between Jane, a New York socialite slumming in bohemian New Orleans, and Tye, a strip club worker, thief and junkie, who Jane has brought to the boarding house. Megan Whittle and Levi Hood portray them not as lovers but as a pair linked by feral convenience. There is neither passion nor compassion here, just an unconvincing brutality. It is off-putting and drags the second half of the play into tedium as both actors struggle to find the essence of the characters.

In an underwiritten role, LaKesha Glover offers solid supporting work as the play's most grounded character, Nursie. As the long put-upon housekeeper, she bears her cross as the only person who truly understands Mrs. Wire.

The company offers a case of luxury casting with two of the city's most acclaimed actresses, Adella Gautier and Janet Shea, in two small roles. As Miss Mary Maude and Miss Carrie, Gautier and Shea depict two of the most pitiful but touching creatures Williams would ever write, a pair of elderly and destitute women, dreaming of a glorious past while picking rotting food from restaurant trash bins.

Nahaniel Trawog and Toriano Hayward round out the cast in several small roles.

Dustin Gibson's sets, lit effectively by Mandi Wood, embody the cramped and dilapidated feeling of the crowded boarding house. Lee Kyle's vintage costumes establish the period.

"Vieux Carre" is not among Williams' finest works but for fans who want to see the development of the young artist into the great playwright, this production is a compelling one.
Dixie Beer is officially coming back to New Orleans.

New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson, who purchased the iconic beer brand with her husband, Tom Benson, a year ago, gathered Tuesday (Aug. 7) with Mayor LaToya Cantrell and other city leaders to announce plans for a new Dixie brewery at a vacant industrial site in New Orleans East. Tom Benson died in March, before plans for the new brewery were finalized.

The company expects to invest roughly $30 million to turn the 14-acre property into a brewery and tap room, generating about 60 jobs from the start, possibly more as it grows, Saints President Dennis Lauscha said. Construction should take anywhere from 18 months to 2 years, Lauscha said.

Gayle Benson said her husband was determined to make Dixie Beer a symbol of growth and change in New Orleans, particularly in New Orleans East. She promised the same determination.

"He is smiling today knowing that Dixie Brewing Co. is playing a small part as a catalyst for economic growth in a critical part of our city," she said.

The new brewery will bring production of Dixie Beer back to New Orleans for the first time since Hurricane Katrina, which displaced the brand. Dixie, founded in New Orleans in 1907, hired a Wisconsin brewer to keep producing the beer while it struggled to stay afloat. Dixie Beer returned to local store shelves in August 2017, but the beer continues to be brewed out of state, now at Blues City Brewery in Memphis, Tennessee. Meanwhile, Dixie's original brewery on Tulane Avenue has been converted to a brand new research facility, which will open in August as part of the Veterans Affairs hospital complex.

Tom and Gayle Benson purchased Dixie Brewing Co. from Joseph and Kendra Bruno in July 2017. The Brunos, who were present for Tuesday's unveiling, remain minority owners of the company.

The new brewery will take over the former MacFrugal's distribution center at 3501 Jourdan Road in New Orleans East. The brewing facility will be built in an 80,000-square-foot portion of the building and, at least initially, will be able to brew about 1,000 barrels of beer a month. The plans also include a tap room and recreational space on a green area in front of the brewery.

Watch a video tour of the facility originally filmed Tuesday on Facebook Live.

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Lauscha said the company wants to use the space to host tastings and tours, as well as community programming like outdoor concerts.

Cantrell and New Orleans City Councilwoman Cyndi Nguyen, who represents New Orleans East, praised the brewery plans as a key investment in a neighborhood that sorely needs it. Dixie Brewing Co. leaders promised to play an active role in cleaning up neglected portions of the industrial area and in attracting other companies.

"This will be a catalyst for the revitalization of New Orleans East," Cantrell said.

Dixie Brewing Co. currently employs 15 people. Lauscha estimated the new brewery will employ between 60 and 70 people when it opens. That could go up to more than 100 jobs as regional sales increase, and with tours and the tap room up and running, he said.

"The more Dixie you drink, the more jobs we can create in New Orleans East," Lauscha said.

Lauscha said Dixie Brewing Co. is not currently seeking any public incentives to open the brewery, though it may in the future. He noted Louisiana's Quality Jobs program, which provides a cash rebate to job-creating companies, could be a fit for the project.

Right now, though, he said Dixie is focused on getting the brewery built. Lauscha said Tom Benson "absolutely fell in love" with the former MacFrugal's site when they found it, drawn to its location right off Interstate 10 and close to the company's local distributor, Crescent Crown Distributing. Dixie Brewing Co. wants to be a "change agent" in the area, he added.

Lauscha said the company is already talking with the city about ways to improve the surrounding area, including cleaning up nearby roads and improving public transit to the site.

Dixie Beer, which includes Dixie, Dixie Light and Dixie Blackened Voodoo Lager, is sold throughout the Gulf South, and will be expanding to Houston, Texas in coming months.
Country music may soon gain a stronghold in the French Quarter, in the space where a strip club recently closed. A dance venue called Boot Scootin' Rodeo is set to open at 522 Bourbon St. by September.

Owner Robert Watters, who previously operated Rick's Sporting Saloon at the address, said a recent visit to the booming music scene in Nashville, plus the crowds that flooded the French Quarter during Bayou Country Superfest on Memorial Day weekend, inspired the turn toward cowboy style.

The unfinished 8,000-square-foot interior of the club features touches such as leather saddle bar stools, a wooden fence surrounding the dance floor, cowhide upholstered cafe chairs and decorative wagon wheels. Watters said a huge bison head hunting trophy will oversee the back of the club.

Watters said that the future nightspot will charge admission for certain live bands but will otherwise be free. He said the club will include a boot boutique and he's considering adding a piano bar to the upstairs of the 1875 townhouse.

Watters was proprietor of the strip club that occupied the prime Bourbon Street property for nine years until it closed in July. In January, Rick's Sporting Saloon was among four businesses that had their alcohol licenses suspended after they were cited for liquor license violations by the by the New Orleans Police Department and Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control.

The temporary license suspensions came more than two years after "Operation Trick or Treat," during which ATC and Louisiana State Police raided strip clubs and other Bourbon Street-area bars after authorities said a month-long undercover investigation revealed drug and prostitution violations.

In October 2017 NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune published a series of stories exploring illegal activity in and around the clubs and a lack, in some cases, of law enforcement since the "Trick or Treat" raids.

Watters said that Rick's Sporting Club "never recovered" from the nine-day alcohol license suspension. The club had never performed as well financially as his other Bourbon Street strip club Rick's Cabaret, he said, so he was already searching for an alternative business plan before the raid. Boot Scootin' Rodeo was the outcome.

Days after the raid that resulted in the suspension of Rick's Sporting Saloon's alcohol license, the state Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control temporarily suspended the liquor license of Rick's Cabaret, another Watters strip club. Rick's Cabaret, however, remains in operation.

The 500 block of Bourbon Street is currently closed to traffic, as it undergoes Entergy electrical grid maintenance. The Bourbon Street blockage is disrupting deliveries and efficient trash collection, Watters said. The power company trenches are supposed to be closed by late summer, he said, but further Bourbon Street renovation is expected soon after. He hopes the city will suspend the project until after Mardi Gras, Watters said.

Doug MacCash covers art, music and culture in New Orleans. Contact him via email at dmaccash@nola.com. Follow him on Twitter at Doug MacCash and on Facebook at Douglas James MacCash. As always, please add your point of view to the comment stream.
The results of an investigation into the activities of two former St. Tammany Parish sheriff's deputies are in the hands of the North Shore District Attorney's Office, the Sheriff's Office said.

The Sheriff's Office said Monday (Aug. 6) that the state

Attorney General's office had investigated former deputies Ricky Steinert and Nathan Stokes and forwarded the results to District Attorney Warren Montgomery.

"We have received a copy of the Attorney General's report,'' Montgomery's office said in a news release. "We're reviewing it and will take the appropriate action. As this is an open investigation, we will have no further comment."

Steinert quit the Sheriff's Office in 2017 as an internal investigation probed accusations that he falsified the report on a DWI arrest. Stokes, meanwhile, was fired in 2017 in connection with the sale of a department-owned Taser.

The Advocate and WWL reported on both cases and questioned St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Randy Smith's decision not to open criminal investigations into the actions of either deputy.

Smith told the news outlets he didn't open a criminal investigation into Steinert because he did not believe Steinert had committed a crime. As for Stokes, Smith told the news outlets he thought Stokes' action warranted termination, but he did not believe there was evidence to bring criminal charges.

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Nonetheless, after those news reports, Smith in March said he and Montgomery agreed "that an independent review of this case by the Office of the Louisiana Attorney General is appropriate in order to put any concerns to rest that the public still may have about this and other cases."

Following the news stories, the Sheriff's Office posted a note on its Facebook page announcing a new policy of asking the Attorney General to investigate any employee who leaves the agency "under a cloud of suspicion for criminal behavior.''

The Steinert case has also prompted a lawsuit against the Sheriff's Office and Smith.

Ryan Heyd, the Slidell motorist who Steinert stopped and arrested for DWI in 2016, filed suit in federal court in New Orleans in May claiming that his civil rights were violated. The suit said Heyd's license was suspended and he was forced to undergo random drug tests due to the arrest.

Heyd's petition says the charges against him were dismissed on May 26, 2017, "after it was discovered that the defendant, Steinert, fabricated the facts used to justify the initial stop, and the facts used to support his claim that the petitioner had done poorly'' on the tests.

The Sheriff's Office would not comment on Heyd's suit, citing the pending litigation. But in a news release the Sheriff's Office said the incident in question occurred under the administration of former Sheriff Jack Strain.
The American Legislative Exchange Council says it is "dedicated to the principles of limited government, free markets and federalism," which is another way of saying it believes that people have the right to run their lives and businesses as they see fit with as little governmental interference as possible.

To that end, the nonpartisan organization brings together legislators, representatives of think-tanks and stakeholders to discuss key issues, review studies and craft legislation that the lawmakers can take back for consideration in their home states.

The group is holding its annual meeting in New Orleans beginning Wednesday (Aug. 8) and running through Friday with keynote addresses from Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar, Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards, and Mark Janus, the plaintiff in the recently decided Janus v. AFSCME Supreme Court case. The meeting is expected to draw about 1,600 members.

Because the stakeholders who join ALEC include representatives from businesses and industries heavily regulated by government and the think-tanks have a conservative and libertarian approach, the council draws criticism from those who disagree with its viewpoints and its approach.

The British newspaper The Guardian once described ALEC as "a dating agency for Republican state legislators and big corporations, bringing them together to frame right wing legislative agendas in the form of 'model bills.'"

Others bash ALEC for its connections with Charles and David Koch, the billionaire brothers who support conservative and libertarian causes, and try to smear the council as "far right wing," when a lot of the group's positions would strike many as common sense or at least a reasonable start for debate.

Gov. Edwards, a Democrat, is not just addressing the meeting, he signed three bills into law this year that began as ALEC models. One added pipelines to the list of critical infrastructure protected by state trespassing laws. A second created the Louisiana Checkbook, which is designed to provide more public transparency so that people can see how government spends taxpayer dollars.

The third new law requires colleges and universities to spell out free speech rights on campus, publicize those rights in student handbooks and on school websites and to make clear that students cannot expect colleges to shield them from opinions that they find offensive or disagreeable in so-called "campus safe zones."

The Louisiana Legislature, however, failed once again, to pass an ALEC-backed measure to overhaul the state's oppressive occupational licensing laws. Louisiana is the last remaining state that makes it illegal to be a florist without having a license. A bill to change that got sidelined in the regular session.

Asked if was unusual for a Democratic governor to address an ALEC meeting, CEO Lisa Nelson said, "It shouldn't be unusual. We are non-partisan. We invite the Democrat governors when we travel into states all the time. Whether they accept or not is their choice. We like to and want to encourage Democrats to participate as much as possible."

Nelson pointed out that ALEC is "purely opt-in" for members, which means that lawmakers and others seek out membership because they agree with the group's approach and outlook.

"People join because they want that limited government and free-market policy prescription to bring back to their states," she said.

ALEC, which is celebrating it 45th year, may be a victim of its own success. Criticism has grown as the group has increased its influence through the states. It's support for "stand your ground" laws, opposition to sanctuary cities, approach to climate change solutions, backing of school choice through charters schools and vouchers has put the group in the crosshairs of a liberal and progressive organizations with a special vehemence.

I don't endorse every position, but the ideas are worth engaging.

And while critics point to the access and influence of corporations, the proposed legislation still has to be passed by the state legislatures and signed into law by the state governors. Whatever the methods of creating the model bills, the legislation still goes through the regular democratic process.

The proof is in the results. There are plenty of people who prefer limited government, free markets and living life as they choose.

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.
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.
The exercise is as old as the Republic, but the first thing you need to understand about redistricting is that hot-water cornbread is as ubiquitous in north Louisiana as etouffee is in the south, says Rick Gallot, the Ruston Democratic representat
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There are reasons for Charter officials to be sensitive. Mr. Cuomos administration has threatened the companys very existence in New York: The governors appointees at the State Public Service Commission, which oversees the telecom sector, voted at a hastily convened meeting in late July to force Charter to sell its operations in the state.

Those who have tracked the Public Service Commission said its drastic step to revoke Charters merger with Time Warner in 2016 was extraordinarily unusual. It came in a special session called with less than 24 hours notice, while one of the commissions most vocal members had told colleagues she would be out of town on vacation.

I cant speak as to why they would have a special session without me but it is for the chair to determine why a special session was called, said Commissioner Diane X. Burman. She had missed one previous regular session in her five years on the commission, she noted, when she was in the hospital. She declined to speculate about her colleagues motivations.

Without her, the meeting lasted less than 20 minutes and none of the three commissioners who attended asked any questions before voting to pull approval of Charters merger.

A commission spokesman, James Denn, did not return calls for comment and declined to answer specific questions about whether the governors office was involved in their decision. He said in a statement that the commission appropriately moved forward to promptly protect the interests of New Yorkers.

Marcus Molinaro, the Republican candidate for governor, said on Friday that he believes Mr. Cuomo put his thumb on the scale of a major P.S.C. decision because of his rage at NY1 News.

I think Andrew Cuomo got furious with NY1 News and effectively pulled the plug on an entire cable system as punishment to NY1, and as a warning to others he can affect who dare ask him tough questions, Mr. Molinaro said.
Those votes, and her firm opposition to abortion, cost her re-election in 1982. As a result of redistricting, she was thrown into a new district with a freshman Democrat, Barney Frank. Though two-thirds of the voters came from her old district and only one-third from his, he won with 60 percent of the vote. Womens groups turned on her over abortion, and Mr. Frank used those pro-Reagan votes on taxes and spending against her.

Looking toward the 1984 election after big Republican losses in 1982, the Reagan administration was concerned that polls showed women taking a dimmer view of the president than men did. To smooth over those differences, the White House in 1983 sought to put women in high-visibility posts and chose Mrs. Heckler to head Health and Human Services.

She acknowledged in an interview for this obituary in 2011 that she had gotten the post even though she had shown no outward qualifications for it.

I had never been in charge of a bureaucracy, she said. I had never known anything about medicine.

Her approach, she said, was to be a catalyst for caring.

The AIDS epidemic tested that goal, as she coped with the White Houses insistence on holding down spending. Learning of the disease only when she took office in March 1983, she designated it the No. 1 priority for her department.

But she warned in June of that year against unwarranted panic and irrational fears. She told the United States Conference of Mayors that for the overwhelming majority of Americans, there appears to be little or no risk of falling victim to this disease.
Like a Volkswagen Beetle mounted with a V-8 engine, the American economy has a lot more power than it can handle right now, and its making a lot of noise. So is President Trump, who takes singular credit for a robust second-quarter rise in the gross domestic product of 4.1 percent, something that hasnt happened under any other president since  Barack Obama. While Mr. Trump praised himself effusively  hes good at that, isnt he?  the stock market seemed unimpressed. Friday s announcement that 157,000 new jobs were added in July, a modest gain or perhaps a seasonal glitch, elicited an even more subdued reaction. Thats because if you look down the line, there are few clear reasons to be so enthusiastic.

Over all, we see this report as supportive of our views that the economy is currently firing on all cylinders, wrote Bricklin Dwyer, a senior economist with BNP Paribas, after the new G.D.P. numbers were announced. But there was a caveat: Mr. Dwyer said that growth is likely peaking. Indeed, in our forecasts, [the second quarter] marks a high-water mark for growth.

For one thing, the initial jolt of the Republicans $1.5 trillion tax cuts, mostly for corporations and the wealthy, is wearing off. Corporations have bought back $437 billion of their own shares, which leaves them that much less to invest in new production, or wages. In fact, spending on business equipment slowed.

Then theres the flattening yield curve, which the St. Louis Federal Reserve s president, James Bullard, warns could invert late this year if current conditions persist. That means short-term rates, such as those for two-year Treasury bonds, run higher than long-term rates, like the 10-year bond, a sign of pessimism that is a well-known red flag . Recessions tend to follow an inverted yield curve like a stray cat looking for a meal.
Saudi Arabia and its crockery-breaking heir apparent, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, are, once again, opening up claims of advancing a more progressive future for the kingdom to doubt.

Faced with criticism from Canada over the treatment of two prominent human rights activists, Saudi rulers on Monday did the kind of thing that backward, insecure despots often do  they lashed out and penalized their critics.

Riyadh expelled the Canadian ambassador and announced a freeze on all new business with Canada, which counts Saudi Arabia as its second-largest export market in the Middle East . The Saudis also said the kingdom would withdraw from Canada the approximately 12,000 Saudi students on government-funded scholarships and family members and transfer them to other countries.

Its not unusual for countries to balk at external criticism. But this Saudi retribution is unnecessarily aggressive and clearly intended to intimidate critics into silence. Its the kind of move that, in the past, would have immediately elicited a firm, unified opposition from the West. So far, theres hardly been even a whimper of protest.
Last weeks national elections in Zimbabwe were a critical test of whether President Emmerson Mnangagwa was really prepared to lead the revival of a country brought to ruin by his autocratic predecessor, Robert Mugabe. So far, the aftermath of the elections that gave Mr. Mnangagwa and the governing ZANU-PF party at least five more years in power has given little reason for celebration.

International observers charged that the playing field was not even, with coverage on state media, misuse of state resources and intimidation working in the governments favor. Even before the results were in, Mr. Mnangagwas 40-year-old opponent, Nelson Chamisa, claimed fraud and pledged to challenge the results.

Still, huge numbers of voters turned out on July 30, and a host of observers spread across the country reported that the voting was a marked improvement on the systematic rigging and violence that characterized elections under Mr. Mugabe. But a delay in announcing the results of the presidential race sent suspicious opposition members into the streets, where soldiers opened fire and killed at least six. And when the electoral commission announced four days after the voting that Mr. Mnangagwa had secured 50.8 percent of the vote  just over the threshold for an outright victory  tensions rose even further, with numerous reports of beatings and harassment of opposition members.

Mr. Mnangagwa has pledged to investigate the violence, and it may be that he and his party did win roughly what the official vote count claimed. But victory was only one of Mr. Mnangagwas goals in the elections. The other, potentially more important, was to offer free and fair elections as convincing proof to the international community that Zimbabwe was ready to start anew.
People think twice about even buying an ice cream.

AMIR SHERAFARI, who sells fruit and vegetables in Tehran, describing the atmosphere of economic anxiety as Iranians prepare for the renewal of penalties by the United States.
He also expressed a sense of loneliness and worthlessness, which he repeated in the police interview, telling Detective Curcio that the voice inside his head at times acted like an imaginary friend that kept him company. Because I have no one, he said.

Mr. Cruz told Detective Curcio that he had tried to kill himself twice before the shootings, once by ingesting nearly an entire bottle of Advil (which he said he later threw up) and another by drinking vodka and tequila (which purportedly made him pass out). Sometimes, he would cut himself, Mr. Cruz said, including on the morning of the shooting, when he took a blunt knife to himself at a lake where he had gone fishing.

Image Nikolas Cruz. Credit... Broward County Jail, via Associated Press

He alternatively described himself as stupid and a coward.

Prodded by the detective, Mr. Cruz said that he had amassed a cache of weapons and ammunition since turning 18, including the assault rifle, three shotguns and an AK-47. Mr. Cruz, who worked as a cashier at a Dollar Tree and had inherited money from his mother when she died four months earlier, estimated the collection had cost him about $4,000.

Mr. Cruz said that a couple of weeks before the attack, he had planned to go to a park and shoot people there but then decided he didnt want to do it.

At first, Mr. Cruz said that he did not even remember how he had gotten to Stoneman Douglas to carry out his rampage. But by later in the interview, he remembered arriving by Uber. The voice inside his head told him to take it, he said.

Its a voice. The voice is in here, Mr. Cruz said. And then its me. Its just regular me just trying to be a good person.
A new Hawaii law sets a three-month limit on short-term plans and generally prohibits insurers from selling them to anyone who was eligible to buy comprehensive insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplace in the prior year.

The Virginia legislature passed a bill authorizing insurers to sell short-term plans lasting up to 364 days, but Gov. Ralph S. Northam, a Democrat, vetoed it.

People with minimal current health care needs are more likely to purchase these skimpy plans, leaving people who have more significant health care needs to face higher premiums in the marketplace, Mr. Northam said.

The administration is standing by its push. William Brady, an associate deputy secretary at the federal Department of Health and Human Services, told state officials here that the new short-term plans could be a great option for many Americans who were shut out of the insurance market by Obamacares high premiums. He said that up to two million people were expected to enroll in the new plans at prices 50 percent to 80 percent lower than those of Obamacare policies.

But that discount comes at a price. Short-term plans do not have to cover prescription drugs, maternity care, mental health services or pre-existing conditions, which must be covered by Affordable Care Act plans.

I have questions about the underlying value of these products, Dave Jones, the California insurance commissioner, said after listening to an upbeat discussion of short-term plans by several insurance executives.

While two of the insurance executives were speaking, Mr. Jones inspected their websites on a laptop computer and said he could not find even basic information about the benefits and limitations of the policies. A bill passed by the California Senate and pending in the Assembly would bar the sale of short-term plans in the state.
A Sikh man who was recently ambushed, beaten up and told to return to his country said he believed that the very thing that may have prompted the assault also protected him from further harm.

My turban really saved me, Surjit Malhi of Turlock, Calif., said in an interview on Monday.

Mr. Malhi, 50, was putting up political campaign signs near his home, about 60 miles east of San Jose, on July 31 when, he said, two men came up behind him and accosted him. They threw sand in his eyes so he couldnt see, he said, and struck his head and back with what appeared to be a stick and a belt.

You dont belong here, he said they told him.

His truck was also vandalized. A photo posted on Facebook shows the white pickup defaced with a similar message: Go back to your country.

Sheriff Adam Christianson of Stanislaus County said his office was aggressively investigating the case and looking for suspects.
BOGOTA, Colombia  The widely circulated videos seemed to capture a presidency in free fall.

One shows President Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela chased by a hungry mob brandishing pots and pans in 2016. In another, Mr. Maduro enters a plaza before Election Day in May to drum up a crowd  but finds the square practically empty. Then there are the images from this past week: As the presidents stage shakes from an explosion on Saturday, hundreds of troops break ranks and flee in panic.

This portrait of vulnerability comes as Venezuela faces the biggest economic crisis in its modern history.

And yet, Mr. Maduro has remained in power. Many are now wondering whether he hasnt only held on in spite of the disasters, but perhaps, by some measure, because of them.

Theres an area between democracy and outright dictatorship in which economic crises can actually help the leader consolidate power, said David Smilde, a sociology professor who studies Venezuela at Tulane University.
JERUSALEM  Aziz Asbar was one of Syrias most important rocket scientists, bent on amassing an arsenal of precision-guided missiles that could be launched with pinpoint accuracy against Israeli cities hundreds of miles away.

He had free access to the highest levels of the Syrian and Iranian governments, and his own security detail. He led a top-secret weapons-development unit called Sector 4 and was hard at work building an underground weapons factory to replace one destroyed by Israel last year.

On Saturday, he was killed by a car bomb  apparently planted by Mossad, the Israeli spy agency.

It was at least the fourth assassination mission by Israel in three years against an enemy weapons engineer on foreign soil, a senior official from a Middle Eastern intelligence agency confirmed on Monday. The following account is based on information provided by the official, whose agency was informed about the operation. He spoke only on the condition of anonymity to discuss a highly classified operation.

The attack took place on Saturday night in Masyaf, where Syrias military research organization maintains one of its most important weapons-development facilities. It quickly prompted finger pointing at Israel by both Syria and Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based Islamic militant group whose fighters have played a major role in the Syrian civil war on the side of President Bashar al-Assad.
In September 2015, Ms. Abo Rebieh got a call from an activist friend asking her to meet at a cafe. It was a trap: When she arrived, security was waiting.

Ms. Abo Rebieh, a member of the educated middle class, found herself imprisoned with women who were barely literate, and mostly arrested at random. She became a kind of spokeswoman and sounding board, conveying their needs and requests to guards and helping them talk through experiences.

Her art then became a mirror for fellow prisoners who had none: She drew them so they could see themselves. She drew them all in shaded black and white, their grimacing faces and thin limbs influenced by one of her favorite artists, Goya.

Ms. Abo Rebieh was released in 2016, but her case was still open. She fled to Lebanon, where she is stuck because she is still wanted in Syria. Last year, she won an art residency in Spain, to study Goya and paint Syrias ghosts as an echo of his. But the Spanish government denied her a visa.
LONDON  He may have come and gone here in the twinkling of a faux pas in July, but Donald J. Trump is still casting a very visible shadow over this citys cultural landscape. American playgoers visiting Londons theaters in search of escapism may find that theres an awful lot on this citys stages to remind them of political frictions they only thought theyd left at home.

Anxieties about the surge of nationalism on both sides of the Atlantic are percolating through plays as different as Imperium, the Royal Shakespeare Companys absorbing two-part adaptation of Robert Harriss Cicero Trilogy of novels set in ancient Rome; and Joe Murphy and Joe Robertsons The Jungle, an immersive piece that places its audience in the midst of an migrant encampment at Calais.

Even the latest comedy by Alan Bennett, Allelujah!, set in a geriatric ward, simmers with its authors dismay about xenophobia in the age of Brexit. So did David Hares The Moderate Soprano (now closed), about the founding of the Glyndebourne music festival in the 1930s, and the invaluable contributions of German artists in creating what is perceived as a quintessentially English institution. (Mr. Hares play has acquired enhanced resonance with newly raised concerns over the impact of Brexit on the British classical music culture.)

The National Theater this summer has offered windows on American racism (with a rousing production of Branden Jacobs-Jenkinss An Octoroon) and self-cannibalizing capitalism (the fabulous Lehman Trilogy), as well as Britains culturally invasive colonialism (in an exquisite revival of the Brian Friel masterwork Translations.)
Welcome to Best of Late Night, a rundown of the previous nights highlights that lets you sleep  and lets us get paid to watch comedy. If youre interested in hearing from The Times regularly about great TV, sign up for our Watching newsletter and get recommendations straight to your inbox.

The Presidents Latest Incrimi-tweet

President Trumps attempts to defend himself seemed to backfire over the weekend, when Trump acknowledged that his son Donald Trump Jr. had met with Russian officials in 2016 in order to get information on an opponent.

This contradicts Trumps earlier claims that Trump Jr. attended the talks to discuss a program for orphaned Russian children.
What Davis really takes on in Killing It is the tension, as she puts it, between life, death and dinner. She wants readers to contend more immediately with the act of killing and eating an animal, imparting what she represents as a uniquely French respect for a culinary attitude the British chef Fergus Henderson has memorably dubbed nose to tail eating.

Image

There seem to be two books between these covers. The first takes place in France and soon after, when Davis returns to Portland to get her classes, and herself, off the ground. This entails locating animals, farms and experienced butchers who are able to teach their skills to others. The second encompasses her tumultuous romantic entanglements, along with awkward descriptions of the publicity that brought her considerable attention: an award from Martha Stewart and a photo shoot for her magazine, a knife ad that featured Daviss image on a billboard in Times Square, a story in The New York Times Magazine that had her posing with a pigs head on a silver platter.

For anyone who has kept up with the food world during the last 25 years, much of this material will feel overly familiar. Too often Daviss insights and questions appear better suited to the village idiot in Agen than to an American reader in 2018. On fertilization: The manure gets put back out in the fields, where it decomposes and renews the soil with nutrients. On grass-fed beef: I knew it was more expensive than grain-fed, but I didnt know why. On meat: Did how these muscles on a pig move have something to do with the pale color of the loin and the darker hue of the coppa, with why we cook a pork chop in a frying pan and a pork shoulder in a smoker or a Crock-Pot?

There are too many of these golly-gee moments in Killing It, moments that leave you wondering if Davis was really ever that naive. Perhaps one should credit her with such innocence, since without it her earnest mission to impart what she has learned in France becomes just plain silly. What if, she writes of the people who will sign up for her classes, I not only inspired them to change their buying and eating habits, but also to change the way they saw the entire world?

Thats an extraordinarily tall order  and one that sits awkwardly beside the books other overarching concern: Daviss desire for a personal transcendence that hinges on the real. In the end, she finds that the success of the Portland Meat Collective interferes with her desire to live authentically and she ends up experiencing herself as the spectacle of the female butcher rather than the genuine article.
The battle of the palace convinced liberals that Morsi had to go. They began to look toward the military commander Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, to intervene on their behalf. Out of nowhere, a small group of activists offered to organize a nationwide campaign aimed at pushing Morsi out of office, a campaign called Tamarrod (Rebellion). Kirkpatrick recounts the evidence showing that Sisi and his allies, including regional powers like Saudi Arabia, gave Tamarrod crucial support while feigning neutrality.

Many of the activists insisted they didnt want a coup, but army intervention could mean nothing else. After huge marches on June 30, the military ousted Morsi. The presidents supporters retired to two encampments. Clashes periodically erupted nearby and hundreds of people died, some Islamists killed by the government and some bystanders killed by the Islamists. Television stations called for a crackdown on the Islamist cockroaches, and many activists joined in. I had fallen in love with the young liberals of Egypt. It broke my heart to see them like this, Kirkpatrick says.

Image

On Aug. 14, the army finally moved on the encampments. Kirkpatrick and el-Sheikh were among the small number of journalists who witnessed the ensuing massacre. They spent hours sheltering from heavy, relentless gunfire, counting the bodies that went by. All told there were probably over 1,000 deaths. But by then, the country was ready to move on. The morning after, Kirkpatrick returned to the site to find a group of happy youths dancing to a pop song praising Sisi and the army.

Egypt wanted stability and Sisi provided it, or at least its vestige. There was no more tolerance for protests. The new regime was even more harsh than Mubaraks. New demonstrations were crushed and the organizers jailed. Kirkpatrick lingers on the bitter aftermath, as former comrades exchanged recriminations whenever Facebook reminded them of the anniversaries of important marches. We were so blinded by hatred.  We were non-Jews in Nazi Germany, one concluded. We failed the test. The regime had already come for the Islamists and there was no one left for them.

Into the Hands of the Soldiers is a journalists eye view, not a comprehensive history. Kirkpatrick ignores or skips quickly through key grievances of the anti-Morsi movement, both the contrived (the Islamists blackmailed the army into rigging elections for them) and the genuine (Islamists were complicit in killings near the protest camps and in post-coup violence against Christians). Nor does he really treat the armys partisans as having legitimate fears of their own.

Kirkpatrick suggests that if the activists had lived with Morsis illiberal but weak rule until he could be voted out, democracy might have had a chance. Their mistake, he says, was they trusted Sisi. They chose the greater of two evils. But he doesnt fully explore the risks of sticking with Morsi. Nor does he analyze how a revolution works, how power can be seized and lost so easily. The closest he comes is a remark that political power is like fairy-tale magic that only works if you believe in it. That observation is actually well-rooted in political theory: Revolutions happen when enough people stop blindly accepting that its futile to resist the current regime.
New this week:

YOURE ON AN AIRPLANE By Parker Posey. Read by the author. (Penguin Audio.) Posey, a cult favorite for her indie film roles, offers a chance here to imagine yourself seated next to her on a plane, able to ask anything  a fantasy for many a bearded hipster. She tells of her Southern childhood and an idiosyncratic acting career. CATWOMAN By Sarah J. Maas. Read by Julia Whelan. (Listening Library.) In this outing, part of the DC Icons series, Selina Kyle, a.k.a. Catwoman, has free range in Gotham with Batman off on an important mission. She deploys her claws for good and evil. A POLAROID GUY IN A SNAPCHAT WORLD By David Spade. Read by the author. (Audible.) The Saturday Night Live alum reflects on the challenges of dating in his 50s, including how you break up with someone over text. In his own goofy voice, Spades is a journey into the travails of middle age from someone who is still trying to pick up young women. THE COMING STORM By Michael Lewis. Read by the author. (Audible.) The blockbuster nonfiction storyteller offers his look at the science of weather prediction and how the government handles information about the storms on their way. Lewis wrote this piece as one of four original works for Audible, and it shows off his ability to humanize and make fascinating even the most arcane data. A ROOM WITH A VIEW By E. M. Forster. Read by Rebecca Hall. (Audible.) The classic story of Lucy Honeychurch, the young woman torn about whether to follow her passion or conform to social norms, interpreted by Hall, a mainstay of the British stage.

& Noteworthy

In which we ask colleagues at The Times what theyre reading now.

Rachel Cusk is receiving a lot of attention for her new novel, Kudos, and rightly so. Its the final installment in her post-narrative, conversation-fueled trilogy, which, from start to finish, upends the foundations of captivating and meaningful fiction. But its Cusks earlier memoir, A LIFES WORK, about her first year of motherhood, that has earned a permanent and essential place on my nightstand this year. Reflecting much of my psychological experience as a new mother, the memoir scrutinizes pregnancy, childbirth, breast-feeding and other aspects of early parenting with a brutal but crucial honesty. Cusk repeatedly returns to the biggest challenge of all: the immediate and lasting chasm between a womans individual identity and her role as mother. Birth is not merely that which divides women from men: It also divides women from themselves, so that a womans understanding of what it is to exist has profoundly changed, she writes. I am forever grateful to this tirelessly insightful classic for articulating the alternating anguish and transcendence that comes with this lifes work.

 Megan Twohey, investigative reporter
 Who controls the internet?

In China, the government maintains strict censorship. So a generation of teenagers has grown up within limits they seem not to question. Above, Wen Shengjian, 14, likes basketball and wants to become a rapper, but he said the social criticism voiced by American rappers wouldnt be good for China.

The controls have allowed Beijing to build an alternative value system that competes with Western democracy, our Asia tech columnist writes. And the model of a censored internet is being exported to other countries, including Vietnam, Tanzania and Ethiopia.

In the U.S., freedom has been the rule. But repeated peddling of false information finally prompted top technology companies to block one far right-wing figure: Alex Jones, the face and voice of the Infowars media site. He and his followers are claiming an assault on free speech  an assertion free-speech scholars dismiss.
1. Its a busy voting day in the U.S., with polling in five states.

Kansas, Michigan, Missouri and Washington State all have primaries, and Ohio is holding a special House election. National parties are heavily involved, and many of the races are close. Heres whats at stake.

Well have live updates of the results here, so you can check back to see where things stand.
(Want to get this briefing by email? Heres the sign-up.)

Good morning.

Heres what you need to know:

Iran sanctions are restored

 Economic sanctions that the U.S. lifted under a 2015 nuclear agreement went back into effect overnight, increasing pressure on Tehran but straining relations with Americas European allies.

The decision bans any transactions with Iran involving dollar notes, gold, precious metals, aluminum, steel, passenger aircraft or coal.

Washington withdrew from the nuclear deal in May. The other signatories argue that it is the best chance at slowing, and ultimately ending, Irans nuclear ambitions. They now worry that pressure in Iran to resume nuclear activities will rise.
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And then there were 24

Indra Nooyi says she will step down as PepsiCos C.E.O. in October. She will be remembered for her efforts to make the snack and soda giant healthier. But after 12 years in charge, she will hand over to a (male) longtime lieutenant, Ramon Laguarta. And her departure will leave just 24 women running S.&P. 500 companies  a number that keeps falling.

In an interview with the NYT, Ms. Nooyi suggested some reasons for that. I would have loved for the board to have had a woman to pick from, she said of her succession. But at the end of the day, the board selects the C.E.O., and we just didnt have any women who were ready for the job.

Board directors, of course, remain mostly male. And in his latest column, Andrew highlights another factor, one that some female corporate leaders acknowledged but wouldnt discuss openly. They fear that putting other women in senior positions would bring accusations of bias:
The prosecutors in California hoped to use the charges against Mr. Leissner as leverage to negotiate a plea agreement with him and to secure his cooperation in potential cases against several other people, one of the people said. The charges that were drawn up against Mr. Leissner included an accusation that he had provided misleading information to Goldman, something he was previously sanctioned for by securities regulators in Singapore.

The prosecutors in Brooklyn, who joined the investigation about two years ago, objected to the filing of charges against Mr. Leissner, which they said would hamper their investigation into Goldmans possible role in the scandal, the people said. The worry was that accusing Mr. Leissner of tricking Goldman could undermine their case by casting the firm as a victim, one of the people said.

The unusual dispute between the United States attorneys offices eventually made its way to Justice Department headquarters in Washington, which also has been heavily involved in the investigation. Rod Rosenstein, the deputy attorney general, sided with the prosecutors in Brooklyn, handing them full responsibility for the 1MDB criminal investigation, the four people said. The prosecutors in Los Angeles were left to pursue civil cases involving the forfeiture of assets bought in the United States with money diverted from the investment fund.

The prosecutors in Brooklyn are now considering their own criminal charges against Mr. Leissner, which they hope will motivate him to cooperate and to provide more information about Goldmans overall role and the roles played by others at the Wall Street firm, the people said.

Mr. Leissner recently hired Robert E. ONeill, a former United States attorney in Florida, to negotiate with the Brooklyn prosecutors. Mr. ONeill did not respond to requests for comment. Marc Harris, another criminal defense lawyer representing Mr. Leissner, declined to comment.

Until recently, the investigation was focused mainly on allegations that a Malaysian financier, Low Taek Jho, who is also known as Jho Low, misappropriated billions of dollars from the 1MDB fund. The prosecutors in Los Angeles have filed multiple civil lawsuits to recoup assets bought with some of that money.

When the prosecutors in Brooklyn started to investigate the matter in late 2016, a few months after the first civil forfeiture action was filed, their interest was on whether Goldman and other financial institutions had done enough to stop the fraud, the four people said. Since then, authorities in Brooklyn have focused primarily on Goldmans activities.
Alex Jones is the internets most notorious conspiracy theorist. And with his site, Infowars, hes peddled a number of dark and bizarre conspiracy theories. Sandy Hook, its got inside job written all over it. You want us to cover Pizzagate. We have covered it. We are covering it. And all I know is  God help us  were in the hands of pure evil. After weeks of criticism, YouTube, Facebook, Apple, and Spotify all acted to essentially erase many of his videos and posts from their services. In many cases, the companies are saying he violated their terms regarding hate speech and a number of other rules. Alex Jones today in his show dedicated nearly all four hours to what he called censorship of his platform. And President Trump, the Republican Congress, the statehouses, independent media all need to rally together against this global move to censor America and the planet. And this is something that he essentially has been warning his followers of because there was sort of ticky-tacky enforcement for several weeks, and he sort of saw this coming. This is the internet purge, people. I think for those who have tracked the social media policies by some of these big tech firms, today was a significant moment, because these tech companies have really struggled with this dilemma of wanting to combat misinformation online, but at the same time not wanting to become arbiters of truth. Can you define hate speech? Senator, I think that this is a really hard question. And I think its one of the reasons why we struggle with it. For months, and really for years, the tech companies have been reluctant to weigh in on a lot of these controversial speech issues. But it appears after months of criticism, that tech companies have finally said, in the case of Alex Jones, that enough is enough.
If the transaction got done at $420 per share, Tesla would be valued at just over $70 billion, making it the biggest deal in which a company is taken private.

Although Tesla has become the most valuable American car company, it has yet to turn an annual profit since its founding in 2003. And its chief executive, a 47-year-old native of South Africa, has come under increasing pressure as he has scrambled to increase production of the Model 3, a midsize sedan that he is counting on to drive up revenue and enable the company to become profitable.

Still, this is not the way multibillion-dollar leveraged buyouts are typically announced. Companies would normally line up banks, private equity firms or other deep-pocketed investors to agree in advance to provide money to finance the purchase of shares.

Officials representing a number of large banks and investment funds said on Tuesday that they had not talked with Tesla about financing a buyout, although it is possible the company had secured funding from other sources.

Mr. Musks comments on Tuesday  mentioning the specific price of a possible buyout and declaring that Tesla had already arranged funding  were virtually guaranteed to send the shares flying. Still, while it was unusual for a chief executive to make a market-moving announcement on Twitter, there is nothing improper about it on its face.

In 2013, the Securities and Exchange Commission said it was permissible for companies, and people acting on their behalf, to make announcements using social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. It said companies had to alert investors in advance that those would be channels for important corporate news. And Tesla did so, in a filing in 2013.

But the S.E.C. has also advised that intentional releases of market-moving information on social media platforms or websites must be accompanied by a simultaneous release to the broader public. The delay between Mr. Musks tweet and Teslas corporate announcement could be of interest to the S.E.C., said Michael Liftik, a former deputy chief of staff at the commission who is now a partner at the law firm Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan.
Of course, it would be nice to have the answer to that before you buy advance tickets for the eight- to 12-course meal at $155 a person, the only way to reserve a seat. But it doesnt take more than a few minutes at Gem to see that the adults werent just humoring Mr. McGarry. His cooking is nuanced, his plating is often lyrical and the flavors, at least this spring and summer, have been delicate, subtle and very fresh. The vegetables and fruits he uses in profusion look and taste as if they had dropped off the vine right on to the hand-spun, earth-toned ceramic dishes.

My favorite Gem dish so far, delicate and self-assured, was a morsel or two of grilled king crab legs lightly glazed with rose petal miso and set beside soft chamomile-scented potatoes for ballast, red currants for zing and some fluttering rose petals on top for the heck of it. A close rival was the chilled bowl of barely vinegared mackerel interwoven with grilled cucumbers, sliced plums and salty red dabs of mashed fermented plums. The harmonies were right on key, with a Japanese mood that didnt cross the line into outright imitation.

White asparagus, an ingredient that seems to flummox some American kitchens, was subjected to a wonderful treatment, patiently browned and basted in butter, then finished with a reduced chicken jus that had a glimmer of vadouvan in it somewhere. Strewing the plate with tender, pale-green pine needles seemed like an affectation at first, but their flavor lifted and brightened the whole package.

Mr. McGarry does fine work with deeper flavors, too. Each menu crescendos in a complicated, multicomponent spread, and the best of these featured lamb: barbecue ribs rubbed with cracked coriander seeds and XO sauce, plus a skewered grilled lamb kebab and a tomato salad. Another night built up to an exhibition of squab. A leg, perfectly cooked and sweetened by a maple jus, was very good, but the high point was a very thin and hearty rye cracker spread with squab liver, cherries and pickled ramps; the fruits bright notes were played off against earthier ones so skillfully they almost shimmered.

Back in the family home, and at the Eureka pop-up, Mr. McGarry used to make everything himself. Now he works alongside two cooks, bringing the kitchen team at Gem to the same size as that of my neighborhood slice joint.
Nostalgia for New York Yankees games and the hot dogs he ate at the stadium in his youth are what inspired Ralph Lauren, a native of the Bronx, to have wieners made using beef from his Double RL Ranch in Colorado. But his $20 presentation for dinner at the Polo Bar is a far cry from a ballpark frank. The hot dogs  thick, juicy and with good snap  arrive on a board with condiments in silver cups , nestled in split brioche buns and topped with ketchup, mustard, sauerkraut, chopped onions, relish and a parade of pickled jalapeno slices like buttons on a cardigan. Theyre made from a blend of Colorado beef and Australian Wagyu. There is a somewhat limited supply, but they should be on the menu at Chicagos RL Restaurant and New Yorks Polo Bar throughout the fall. Darnell Dodson, the general manager, recommends Ithaca Hellish Lager or Captain Lawrence Clear Water Kolsch alongside.

The Polo Bar, 1 East 55th Street, 212-207-8562, ralphlauren.com.

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Ye Fangsu, a retired Shanghai schoolteacher, doesnt need any lessons about the dangers of trade wars. For nearly 60 years, she has lived in the former French Concession, a leafy part of Shanghai whose name itself carries the humiliation of Chinas biggest trade war. The concession was one of many slices of territory, including Hong Kong and parts of other port cities, that China was forced to hand over to foreign powers after its defeat in the mid-19th-century Opium Wars. China was so weak and backward then, Ye said, shaking her head as she offered me slices of apple and pear on a hot July afternoon. We had to give in.

The first salvos of todays trade war have barely been felt yet in China. But for many Chinese, theres a sense of history repeating itself. The Opium Wars, as every Chinese schoolchild is reminded, began as a British attempt to pry open the Chinese market. Much as it does today, China in the 17th and 18th centuries ran a huge trade surplus with the West, exporting large quantities of tea, porcelain and silk but importing little in return. (It balanced its current-account surplus by buying up loads of Latin American silver; these days, Beijing has piled up $1.2 trillion in United States government securities.) By hooking China on opium, British and American merchants redressed the trade imbalance even as they weakened the countrys social fabric. The Chinese revolted, but they were no match for Western gunboats  leading to the unequal treaties that have fueled Chinas sense of historical grievance and patriotic ambitions ever since.

Ye Fangsu was a teenager in 1949 when Mao Zedongs Communist troops marched into Shanghai, the vanguard of a revolution that vowed to end Chinas century of humiliation. Now 84 and widowed, Ye says she was angry when she learned from state-run media about the United States punitive trade tariffs on Chinese products. It just seems like the foreigners are bullying us again, she told me. But this time will be different, she said, pointing out that rather than panic or surrender, Chinas leaders announced a reciprocal counterattack aimed at products, like soybeans and pork, meant to hit the heart of President Donald Trumps rural base. Weve become strong now, and our leaders are more tenacious. They wont back down.
HOLMDEL, N.J.  The first piece of advice that the handler gave about Robby, a retired military working dog with one eye and wheels supporting his back legs, was not to hug him.

The drug-sniffing 13-year-old German shepherd, despite his infirmities, was still trained to repel anybody who leaned in too close. Hes old school, said Robbys handler, U.S. Navy Petty Officer Second Class Ashlea Scully. He can still be aggressive.

On Tuesday, Senator Robert Menendez, a New Jersey Democrat, settled for a pat on the head. Later on, Robby joined five other military dogs  four still on active duty  and their handlers at the War Dog Memorial here as Mr. Menendez announced the passage of his legislation creating a Guardians of Americas Freedom Medal, the Department of Defenses first official commendation for military working dogs.

On a hot, muggy day, as Mr. Menendez fielded questions about his challenging re-election fight, Robby, Rudy, Laika, Kkrusty, Kira and O.J. stood panting patiently on leashes next to their handlers, as the senator proclaimed them four-legged heroes.
There is a way of life in Inwood, a sense of place, order and community that is more than its surroundings suggest.

There are the lush parks, including the 196-acre Inwood Hill Park, the last natural forest in Manhattan, and the riverfront views. There are the streets filled with low-rise walk-up tenements.

And there is the diversity: Nearly half of the residents here are foreign born.

But there is something else. To Kate Fray, an immigrant from England who has lived in New York for a decade and in Inwood for the last four years, it is the way we speak to each other, the way we look out for each other, the way we look after each other.

Others speak of the Dominican culture evident in the shops and restaurants; three-quarters of Inwoods almost 43,000 residents are Latino, and Inwood contains the highest concentration of Dominican residents in the city.
In March 2017, for instance, Mr. Stone acknowledged that before the 2016 election he traded private messages with Guccifer 2.0, the mysterious online avatar that was instrumental in helping WikiLeaks release internal emails and other political documents that eventually proved damaging to Hillary Clintons presidential bid and to the Democratic Party.

In an indictment unsealed last month, Mr. Mueller charged that Guccifer 2.0 was in fact a front for Russian intelligence officers. The indictment also said that a person in regular contact with senior members of Mr. Trumps campaign had communicated with Guccifer 2.0. Government officials have identified that person as Mr. Stone.

Though Mr. Stone has downplayed his ties to Guccifer 2.0 as minimal and innocuous, media organizations have reported that he was also in direct communication with WikiLeaks in the weeks before the election, despite his assertions to the contrary. In February, The Atlantic published an article that included screenshots of private messages that Mr. Stone swapped with a Twitter account for WikiLeaks, a development that seemed at odds with a statement Mr. Stone gave to Congress in September when he claimed that he had communicated with the group only through an intermediary.

What further light can Ms. Davis shed on Mr. Stones activities?

Its hard to say at this point, but Ms. Davis may be able to help investigators sort through Mr. Stones confusing and complicated ties to the two entities  WikiLeaks and Guccifer 2.0  that are at the center of the hacking of Democratic emails and political documents, and their subsequent leak to the public.

Ms. Davis is close enough to Mr. Stone that, by his own account, he is the godfather of her son. And beyond the work he did for her during her run for governor, Mr. Stone employed her, on and off, for years, as an assistant in his office. Ms. Davis also has ties to one of Mr. Stones close aides, Andrew Miller, who served as her campaign manager when she ran for governor. Mr. Miller has himself been subpoenaed to appear before the grand jury in the Russia investigation.

Mr. Stone has nonetheless claimed Ms. Davis is unlikely to be helpful to Mr. Mueller. She knows nothing about Russian collusion, he said last week.

What does all of this mean for the larger investigation?

If Mr. Stone is ultimately charged with a crime, it would mean another person close to Mr. Trump had been felled by Mr. Muellers investigation. But beyond Mr. Stones actions, prosecutors are presumably also interested in what Mr. Trump knew about the hacks and leaks and when he knew it. Mr. Stone might be a key witness.
Good morning on this blistering Tuesday.

Youre running late. Your subway station is closed for repairs. Your grocery bags are too heavy to carry home.

You pull out your phone, and within minutes, an Uber driver comes to the rescue.

Uber and other ride-hail apps have become a vital tool for many New Yorkers, alongside their MetroCards.

Now, as New York City considers capping most for-hire vehicles for a year, Uber has a message for its customers: Your trip could get more expensive, and you might have to wait longer for a ride.

We asked readers what they thought of the proposed cap and another bill to set a minimum wage for ride-hail drivers. The City Council is expected to vote on both measures on Wednesday.
Since his ouster from the White House a year ago, Steve Bannon has been barnstorming across Europe, meeting with figures like the former leader of the U.K. Independence Party, Nigel Farage; the French Rassemblement National head, Marine Le Pen; and the far-right Hungarian prime minister, Viktor Orban. Last month Mr. Bannon announced plans to establish a foundation to support right-wing populist movements on the continent.

Mr. Bannon isnt driving Europes ever-growing xenophobia. But his ability to plant roots there and the potential that he and others see in tying together country-level anti-immigrant sentiment into a continentwide movement are both alarming and, for those of us in the United States, a reality check.

Despite the rise of Donald Trump, views around immigration in the United States seem to favor the left. The president may want to build a big beautiful wall, but most polls show that around 60 percent of Americans oppose the idea. In a 1994 Pew survey, 63 percent thought that immigrants were a burden, while only 31 percent said they were strengthening the country. When asked the same question in 2016, just 27 percent see immigrants as a burden, while 63 percent think immigration is a good thing. The trend holds in 2018. In June, only 24 percent said the amount of legal immigration into the United States should be decreased. The situation is different in much of Europe. According to the International Organization for Migration, 48 percent of Europeans believe that migration should be reduced. In Finland, Greece, Sweden and Italy, among other countries, it ranks as the top concern of voters.

There are several factors at work here, but one is clearly the continued relevance of the civil rights movement and anti-racist struggles, which won a more diverse and inclusive America. Thats no excuse for complacency or discontent about how far that progress has gone. But it does remind us that as scary as Trumpism is, right-wing ideas on immigration havent penetrated as deeply here as in Europe. The Trump administration is in power, already causing a great deal of harm, and it has a strong base of supporters, but it hasnt won over the majority.
People meet me and they think, Oh, my God. Like, I  I had no idea. I thought you were from a different country. If it comes up, someone asks, Where are you from? And I say, New York. They say, No, no. But where are you really from? I usually let them talk and figure me out first. And figure them out first. And also, I just think its very awkward to be, Hi, my name is Becca, Im deaf. This is the cochlear implant that I use to hear with. Its got a magnet. Its got the part that goes behind my ear. And heres the microphone. Here are the volumes. The sound is transferred through the wire here and then into this coil. And then it goes through the skin on my head. And then into the computer chip that is inside my head. And then through the electrode array that is wired into the cochlear. And then the sound, once it gets through the cochlear, it sends a signal to the brain. And then, I guess, to the side is generally what it looks like. And heres my right side. And then, generally, when I do my hairstyles, I try to keep my coils, my magnets hidden. So, what youll find is that when I take it off, the longer I keep it off for, the more my deaf disability comes out. My voice becomes more monotone. And it becomes more difficult to think about what Im saying. The only reason that I know what Im saying is because I feel the vibrations of my voice speaking to the camera. When I take my cochlear implants off, I cannot hear a single sound. Not even the loudest sound. Its a complete 100% silence. When I have it off, I am a little insecure about what Im saying and how I sound. Because I know it sounds different. And  but the second I put it on, I find that my voice goes back to normal. Hiding it means that we can present ourselves for ourselves, rather than putting our disability first. But we arent hearing-impaired people. We just have hearing loss. Well, were deaf. No. We have hearing loss. No, I really do  I really do want to say that Im deaf and that Im not hearing impaired. Because I think it gives people a different perception. And I want to give people a different perception of what being deaf really means. When I first started, it wasnt the same. I remember having a box on my chest that was under my shirt. And each different device and how much it changed. Kids started noticing that I had something different about me. I still had a body aid. It was about this big and it went directly across my chest. There was no way to hide any of this. So I had almost like suspenders on me with the giant ear molds going into my ears. I mean, there was no way around it. I was different. I dont actually remember doing this. But apparently, my mom told me I used to act as though it were a radio. Even though there was no music coming in. So that was my first piece of equipment in school. I dont remember it ever being a problem, other than I cant be in a water balloon fight, was pretty much the extent of it. Which was disappointing, but, you know, I managed. When I was little, I hated the hearing tests a lot. I hated them because it was having to sit in a room and be forced to acknowledge that theres something Im not good at. And that theres something thats  harder for me. And it sucks to spend an hour or two hours, however much time, to be, over and over and over, every beep, every word, reminded that youre not doing well. I am not somebody who fails tests. Things got difficult for me when I started to excel. And the mainstream kids who werent excelling couldnt understand why they werent and I was. And thats when things started to shift. That yes, Im different. Yes, I have trouble hearing. So therefore, Im not supposed to do as well. I tried so hard to be, quote, unquote, normal. I just didnt want people to know I had a hearing loss. Its been something Ive dealt with pretty much my whole life. Trying to get people to not know I have a hearing loss. And I would say only recently, maybe within the last year or two, have I really come out and owned it. The difficulty, the real difficulty, was when I transitioned into the clinical years of my medical school education. Because they had never had anybody with this type of hearing loss. And everybody was just kind of  Well, what do you want us to do? Because I was so high-functioning. I am so high-functioning. Most people look at me and they dont see me as needing anything extra, see me as being any different. So it was almost harder for them to have to do a double take and say, Wait, what? You need help? You need something different? When it comes time to being intimate with someone, it becomes a big deal. There are certain nuances. There are certain things that are said. And there are certain instances where I would be completely in the dark and completely in the unknown if I dont have my hearing aid on, if I dont have my implant on. And its a very scary feeling for someone. So Im engaged now. Ive been engaged for maybe a month now. And shes a hearing person. When we met, I didnt tell her upfront that I was hearing impaired. She tried to call me, and I would always have some kind of excuse. I would say Im in the bathroom, or Im at work, or something. Id make up an excuse. When we were ready to actually become boyfriend and girlfriend, thats when I actually told her that Im hearing impaired. And she was like, Wow, that makes a lot of sense. Oftentimes, other people are more uncomfortable with my hearing impairment than I am. And I understand that. People  we live in a society in which, you know, you dont look at somebody whos in a wheelchair. Just because you dont want to make them feel uncomfortable. You dont say anything, you dont ask questions. There are people who dont want to talk about it. And I think that were so afraid of being rude that sometimes I think we make these people invisible. And we create a barrier between ourselves and them. And I wish that more people would just ask. There was a definitely a period of time that I had trouble finding a job. I was really unhappy. Every once in a while, I would get the question, How are you on the phone? And then I  employers are not supposed to ask you specific questions about how youre able to do something. Because thats discrimination if they choose not to hire you. And I definitely got that question, like, hundreds of times. But the risk is that they dont know  I dont know when I dont hear. And I cant always tell them that. And the risk is  is she going to be able to keep up? I didnt have to use  oh no, my battery is dying.  Do you have another spare battery? Yeah, of course I do. Yeah. I have a spare battery  I keep every day. I always have a spare battery pack in my wallet. I have a cochlear implant up here. So now I cant hear, the battery is out. Thats it. And were back. I mean its  technology  you know, your phone breaks, my hearing aid breaks, my cochlear implant is broken  You adapt. A couple of weeks ago, my cochlear implant actually broke. And I had texted my mom being like, My unit broke. And my mom was like, Your A/C broke? And Im like, No, Mom. My implant broke. And she was like, Your dental implant? And I was like, Mom! My hearing aid! My implant. My cochlear implant. And she was like, Oh, I forgot. Sorry. People ask me questions all the time, like Do you hear music? Do you hear sound? What do you hear? What does it sound like? I dont think anybody really understands unless you live with it. Because you cant replicate it. You cant  explain. That first mapping experience, its a completely bewildering one. The audiologist turned it on, so to speak. And Im like, I dont  all I hear is cracks and beeps. And this is not working. Hello? Shes like, Wait a minute, wait a minute. And even within the span of 10 minutes, something clicked into place. It was surreal. And I had that weird sort of spasm in my body when they turned it on. Because its just, you know, lifes being shot back into you. I think getting my cochlear implant was probably one of the most emotionally difficult times. It was really hard. I had just graduated from college and had just moved back from L.A. I needed to do something. And my audiologist had made a really good point for me. Shed been trying to get me to do it for years. And she said to me  a couple years before that, she said, Youll do it when you feel like youre missing something. When you feel like youre not getting everything you should be getting out of everything. You just have to learn to embrace it. I mean, I think it took me until college to really embrace how cool this is, that I can hear, and still take it off and be deaf at the same time. You know, its something that Im used to. If I do reflect on it, I never reflect on it in a negative way. Its always, you know, Wow, look where I am. You know, Look what Ive overcome. If I did this, anything else is possible.
The crisis between the two NATO allies is the worst since the United States imposed an arms embargo on Turkey over its 1974 invasion of Cyprus. But even if Mr. Brunson is allowed to leave, Turkish-American relations wont improve significantly.

Turkey is holding several United States citizens, including Serkan Golge, a Turkish-American NASA scientist, who was visiting Turkey after the coup and was arrested after a disgruntled relative claimed he had links to coup plotters. Three Turkish nationals working for American consulates in Turkey are also under detention on a cocktail of specious terror charges.

Congress has lined up its own set of sanctions, which include freezing the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, as retaliation for the imprisonments and Turkeys plans to acquire the Russian-made S-400 missile system, which the Pentagon sees as compromising NATO security.

The Turkish governments supporters in the Trump administration argue for de-escalation because they see the relationship with Turkey as too valuable to forsake. They argue that punitive measures would drive Mr. Erdogan fully into the embrace of Russia, China and Iran. And Mr. Erdogan, who is hailed by a large number of Muslims as a fearless champion of the Palestinian cause, could cut Turkeys ties to Israel. They are wrong.

Should Washington stick to its guns, it might just help nudge Mr. Erdogan back to the democratic path of reform. After all, Turkey has far more to lose from a rupture than the United States does. The Americans dont have the kind of economic leverage the Europeans have over Turkey. But infuriated by Turkish recalcitrance, Congress now wants the Trump administration to block future funding for Turkey from global lenders like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank  assistance it might need given its economic troubles.

As Mr. Erdogan continues to systematically hollow out Turkeys democratic institutions, foreign investors continue to flee. As economic troubles mount, Mr. Erdogans sizable pool of supporters in the Turkish business community might rethink their loyalty. Unlike Iran, Turkey does not have oil to subsidize the follies of its leaders.

Despite its cooperation with Russia against the Syrian Kurds, Turkey is nervous about Russian expansionism in the Black Sea and South Caucasus. Turkey does not recognize the annexation of Crimea, champions the cause of ethnic Crimean Tatars and has closed its ports to traffic from Crimea in protest. Mr. Erdogan might talk tough, but Turkey needs NATO and he is aware of it.
Last week, a woman named Therra Gwyn Jaramillo described, over the course of more than 1,200 words on Facebook, how a man named Chris had bought her groceries at Whole Foods  $375 worth  in a moment of grave need. (She was strapped, and a friend had sent her to the expensive store with a $250 gift card.)

She had not recognized her benefactor at first. But soon, the cashier told her that the Chris who bought her groceries was, in fact, Ludacris, the artist behind such hits as Whats Your Fantasy?, Southern Hospitality, Saturday (Oooh! Ooooh!) and Stand Up.

Upon learning who had bought her groceries, Ms. Jaramillo burst into what she described as the worst possible white-woman rendition of Ludacriss song Rollout (My Business).

Ludacris, she wrote. This guy is awesome run amok. You know why? He was just doing something kind for a disheveled, harried stranger.
IN 1948, Bill Cunningham left the comforts of his middle-class Boston home, as well as a promising Harvard scholarship (classes, he wrote, were like being in prison) for the chance to make it in New York City. Nineteen years old, and skinny as a beanpole, he had been offered a training course working at the luxury department store Bonwit Teller, where he eventually landed a job in the advertising department. As he remembered, I took to New York life like a star shooting through the heavens.

Cunningham is best known for his two New York Times columns On the Street and Evening Hours, which officially began in 1989, though he covered fashion for The Times from the late 70s until his death at the age of 87 in 2016. The first was a roving report of how people dressed  to work, to lunch, going to see their shrinks  which meant Cunningham was on a perpetual street safari. The second was more of a society diary, respectfully aware of certain dynasties and clans whose black-tie charity work cast a nostalgic glow, even in a post-Truman Capote New York City. Both were united by Cunninghams appreciation for the smallest of details: the sash of a ball gown as a woman walked down a set of marble steps, the slope of a coat shoulder on a woman lunging over a puddle of melting snow. He was often seen riding around Manhattan on his bicycle, clad in his blue workmans jacket and khaki pants, his camera hanging at the ready around his neck.
Good morning.

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San Diegos ocean waters are warmer than usual. Last week, researchers recorded the warmest sea surface temperature in more than a century. Each day, researchers from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at University of California San Diego collect data by hand from the Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier. On Friday, the water reached 78.8 degrees Fahrenheit  the highest since record keeping began there in 1916. The previous record, 78.6 degrees, had been set just two days earlier. We spoke with Clarissa Anderson, a biological oceanographer, to explain the significance of the temperatures.

Her answers have been slightly edited and condensed for clarity:

How often is the water temperature measured and why?

Weve done manual measurements on the waters near the pier since 1916, but we also have an automatic shore station and gliders that go further off the coast and buoys. All of those measurements tell us a comprehensive story about whats going on in the ocean as a whole. And were seeing these high temperatures across the board.

While global warming was not an understood concept a century ago, even then there was an understanding that theres natural variability and that temperatures could change very abruptly. The understanding was youve got to get a baseline understanding. There was a basic understanding that human causes could impact the sea and this was scientific curiosity taking that further.
Paul Manafort was once President Trumps campaign manager. By the fall of 2018, he was expected to face at least a decade in prison for 10 felony counts. Those counts included financial fraud and conspiracy to obstruct justice. Mr. Manafort is disappointed of not getting acquittals all the way through. He is evaluating all of his options at this point. In the hopes of getting a more lenient punishment, Manafort agreed to fully cooperate with the special counsel, Robert Mueller. Now, federal prosecutors are saying he violated his plea deal by repeatedly lying during their investigation. Manaforts lawyer also allegedly passed information to President Trumps legal team. But this isnt Manaforts first scandal. Controversy has trailed the veteran Republican adviser since his earliest work as an international lobbyist and consultant. In the 1980s, Manafort testified before Congress and admitted to using his political influence to win millions of dollars in contracts from federal low-income housing programs. The technical term for what we do and what law firms, associations and professional groups do is lobbying. For purposes of today, I will admit that in a narrow sense some people might term it influence peddling. That same decade, Manafort advised the Philippine dictator, Ferdinand Marcos, on improving his image in the U.S. Manafort allegedly received $10 million in cash from a Marcos confidante. It was apparently money intended for Ronald Reagans presidential campaign. But the campaign said it never received that money. Foreign contributions to U.S. presidential elections are illegal. Also in the 1980s, Manafort was linked to the prime minister of the Bahamas at a time when the island nation had alleged ties to drug traffickers. Manaforts company said that the goal of its work was to help the Bahamas obtain more U.S. aid to help curb the drug smuggling. Decades later, Manafort would run Trumps presidential campaign. We want America to understand who Donald Trump the man is. Not just Donald Trump the candidate. The composite of his career. Not just from a business standpoint or a political standpoint, from a human standpoint as well. But he resigned five months into the job in August 2016, in the wake of reports that he received more than $12 million from Viktor Yanukovich, the former Ukrainian president and pro-Russia politician. Yanukovich and his political party relied on advice from Manafort and his firm, which helped them win several elections. The Times uncovered that Manafort and others close to Trump met with the Kremlin-linked Russian lawyer in June 2016. That lawyer claimed to have damaging political information about Hillary Clinton. As for this latest brush with controversy, Manaforts lawyers insist that their client has been truthful. But they acknowledge that Manafort and Muellers team are at an impasse.
Senator Claire McCaskill is believed to be one of the most vulnerable Democrats in the Senate because of her low approval rating and Mr. Trumps victory in Missouri by nearly 20 percentage points. Six years ago, she managed to win re-election largely because of the deep unpopularity of her Republican opponent, Todd Akin, who drew national ridicule and condemnation for claiming that women did not get pregnant in cases of legitimate rape. This time, Republicans are hoping to nominate a stronger challenger.

The front-runner is Josh Hawley, Missouris conservative attorney general, for whom Mr. Trump has raised funds and campaigned; his long-shot opponent is Austin Petersen, a libertarian. Polls show an extremely close race between Mr. Hawley and Ms. McCaskill.

In the First Congressional District, Cori Bush is running against an incumbent Democrat, William Lacy Clay, in a test of whether the progressive playbook pioneered by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in New York can work in the heartland. Read more about that race here.

Voters will also weigh in on a ballot measure that will determine whether Missouri becomes a right-to-work state, meaning that people would no longer have to join a union or pay fees if their workplaces are unionized. Republicans passed right-to-work legislation in 2017, but labor groups collected enough signatures to prevent the measure from taking effect pending a statewide ballot.

Well have live results here from Missouri.
I first met my birth father in the parking lot of a Holiday Inn near Indianapolis. I was 18.

We had been working toward this moment for three years. Letters. Phone calls. Even mix tapes.

Hey, kid, my birth father, Jimmy Godwin, said in his bourbon-barrel baritone. He held out his hand.

I was nervous, but knew this wasnt a handshake meeting.

I hugged Jimmy, who seemed startled, but hugged me back. We went inside, and our first conversation was surreal and overwhelming, but afterward, he wasnt a mystery anymore, and neither was I.

That 1989 visit laid the foundation for what proved to be a complicated but loving relationship that lasted until Jimmys death in 2008.
HONG KONG  A former top official in Hong Kong continued his clash with the citys Foreign Correspondents Club over its plans to host a talk by the head of a pro-independence political party, asking Tuesday why the government should allow the club to lease a publicly owned building.

The dispute could prove a significant test of the limits of free speech in Hong Kong, a former British colony that returned to Chinese sovereignty in 1997. Hong Kong operates as a semiautonomous special administrative region under a model of one country, two systems, but many residents worry about the deterioration of civil rights under the influence of Chinas authoritarian central government.

Leung Chun-ying, who served as Hong Kongs chief executive from 2012 to 2017, has complained about the clubs decision to host a talk by Andy Chan, the founder of the Hong Kong National Party, which the government is seeking to ban.

Mr. Leung said Tuesday in a Facebook post that he believed the club had a special deal with the government on the lease for the building it occupies in downtown Hong Kong, and that other organizations should be able to bid for it.
SEOUL, South Korea  North Korea released a South Korean citizen on Tuesday who was detained in the North last month, a rare humanitarian gesture welcomed by the South Korean government.

The returnee was handed over to the South Korean authorities through Panmunjom, a contact point on the border between the two countries, the Souths Unification Ministry said in a statement.

The 34-year-old man, who was identified only by his last name, Seo, was arrested in North Korea for illegal entry on July 22.

The ministry released no further details, citing a pending investigation. The man will probably face criminal charges in South Korea because of a national law that bars citizens from visiting the North without government permission.
KABUL, Afghanistan  An American airstrike killed at least a dozen Afghan security forces during intense fighting with the Taliban near the Afghan capital, officials said Tuesday.

Hundreds of armed Taliban militants made a run for the Azra district center in Logar Province, about 50 miles south of Kabul, late on Monday, and the fighting continued overnight, officials said. Shamshad Larawi, a spokesman for the governor, said that American airstrikes had been called in for support, but that because of a misunderstanding, the planes mistakenly targeted an Afghan police outpost.

Mr. Larawi played down the number of casualties, which remained unclear. Members of the provincial council said the strike had killed 12 security personnel, a mix of Afghan police officers and pro-government militia members. Haji Abdul Satar, a tribal elder from Azra, said he counted 19 dead, among them 17 Afghan police officers and pro-government militia members and two civilians.

Lt. Col. Martin ODonnell, a spokesman for United States forces in Afghanistan, confirmed that the strike had been carried out and said reports that it had killed Afghan forces were being investigated.
ISTANBUL  In their recent encounter at the NATO summit meeting, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey and President Trump gave each other a fist-bump, as Mr. Trump declared, I like him, I like him.

The love fest was short-lived. Days later, the Trump administration imposed financial sanctions against two ministers of Mr. Erdogans cabinet, sending the Turkish lira plummeting and a stream of nationalist invective pouring forth from the Turkish media. Mr. Erdogan retaliated last weekend with sanctions of his own against his ministers American counterparts.

The tit-for-tat exchange has led many to fear that the longtime allies were headed toward an irreparable rift, driven by two leaders who each pride themselves on driving a hard bargain, in this case over Turkeys detention of an American pastor, Andrew Brunson, who was swept up in Mr. Erdogans sweeping crackdown after a failed coup in 2016 and accused of espionage.

Combative politics is written in Mr. Erdogans DNA, one Turkish columnist explained, and for that matter, it seems, in Mr. Trumps. Indeed, according to diplomats, the several phone calls that have taken place between the two men this year have been stormy.
President Trumps latest explanation for the June 2016 campaign meeting with Russians at Trump Tower: It was to obtain dirt on his opponent, Hillary Clinton, and thats totally legal and done all the time in politics.

The presidents Sunday morning tweet marked a new twist in an account that has zigged and zagged since The New York Times first reported on the meeting last year.

The meeting and the administrations response are a focus of the inquiry by the special counsel investigating Russian interference in the 2016 election. That inquiry is no doubt complicated by the constantly shifting explanations from nearly everyone involved. Heres a breakdown.

How the Trump teams story of the meeting changed over time:

First, it was to discuss adoption. July 8, 2017

When first asked about the meeting, Donald Trump Jr. issued a statement saying the meeting was primarily about the adoption of Russian children.

Then, to see someone who might have information helpful to the campaign. July 9, 2017

After The Times informed Donald Trump Jr. that it was preparing an article that would say the meeting also involved a discussion of potentially compromising material on Mrs. Clinton, he issued another statement flicking at that possibility.

Later, to obtain information about an opponent. July 17, 2017

Mr. Trump defended the meeting in a tweet, saying Most politicians would have gone to a meeting like the one Don jr attended in order to get info on an opponent. That's politics! About a week earlier, emails between Donald Trump Jr. and Rob Goldstone, a British music producer and publicist who helped broker the gathering, had come to light. Those emails made it clear that the meeting was to provide the Trump campaign with damaging information on Mrs. Clinton as part of a Russian government effort to support his father.

Now, explicitly to get information on an opponent which is totally legal and done all the time in politics. August 5, 2018
What to watch: Two of Washingtons 10 congressional districts have competitive races on Tuesday. The primaries will be top two, meaning that  as in California  the top two finishers will move on to the general election, regardless of party. Read more

In the Eighth District, four main candidates are running to replace Representative David Reichert, a retiring Republican whose seat is considered a tossup. Former State Senator Dino Rossi, a Republican, is expected to make the top two in the primary. The big question is which Democrat will make it along with him: Shannon Hader, a former official at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Jason Rittereiser, a lawyer; or Kim Schrier, a pediatrician.

In the solidly Democratic Ninth District, Representative Adam Smith, a longtime congressman with a top position on the House Armed Services Committee, is facing a primary challenge from Sarah Smith, a democratic socialist. On the surface, this looks a lot like New Yorks 14th District, where another democratic socialist, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, beat Joseph Crowley, a longtime congressman with a powerful leadership position. Ms. Smith has encouraged the comparison, while Mr. Smith has emphasized the differences between the two races  including that Ms. Ocasio-Cortez was born and raised in her district, while Ms. Smith lives a bit outside this one.

 MAGGIE ASTOR

Read more about todays most important races.
Former Ivory Coast first lady Simone Gbagbo is one of 800 prisoners who were granted amnesty Monday by President Alassane Ouattara for offenses related to the brief but deadly civil war in 2011.

Simone Gbagbo was sentenced to 20 years in prison in 2015 after she was convicted on a charge of endangering state security for her role in the violence.

Ivory Coast's former first lady Simone Gbagbo (R), who is accused of crimes against humanity and war crimes for her alleged role in a 2011 civil war, arrives in a domestic court in Abidjan, May 31, 2016

She was tried and acquitted last year on a charge of crimes against humanity. Prosecutors accused her of leading a cell that carried out violent reprisals against opponents of her husband, then-President Laurent Gbagbo, including supplying it with weapons and attack helicopters.

About 3,000 people were killed in the West African nation in 2011 after Laurent Gbagbo refused to accept his loss to Ouattara in elections held the previous November.

Gbagbo was later captured and turned over to the International Criminal Court in The Hague, where he is on trial for crimes against humanity.


Sarah Tyre

Weber Shandwick has hired Sarah Tyre, who was Burson-Marsteller's New York crisis lead, and Marc Drechsler, ex-head of Ketchum's financial communications practice, as executive VPs in New York.

Tyre spearheaded B-M's cybersecurity specialty, dealing with data breaches, inadvertent data loss or exposure, privacy and cyberattacks.

She'll be in charge of the cyber incident team within Weber Shandwick's crisis and issues group.

Drechsler, who was co-founding partner at Ketchum's Pleon Financial, has provided crisis and investor relations counsel to large companies in Europe and the US.

He will lead Weber Shandwick's financial communications operation, handling global capital markets positioning and special situations.

Pete Duda, executive vice president/co-lead of Weber Shandwicks global crisis & issues unit, expects the special counsel savvy of Tyre and Drechsler, will be "essential assets to our clients and our team.
Geoffrey Weill Associates has been hired to provide public relations services in North America for Thomson Safaris and Thomson Family Adventures. Founded in 1980 by Rick Thomson and Judi Wineland, Thomson Safaris specializes in personally crafted trips to Tanzania, using only local guides in its itineraries. The company is the recipient of both a "Tanzania Conservation Award" and "Humanitarian of the Year Award" from The Tanzania Tourist Board. Thomson Family Adventures, which was launched in 1998, offers more than 90 itineraries and covers regions of North, South and Central America, Africa, Asia and Antarctica.

Goodman Public Relations has been selected to provide public relations and marketing services for Rock n Roll Fantasy Camp, The Salvation Army Fort Lauderdale, South Florida Wildlife Center and Fort Lauderdale Gay Mens Chorus. Rock n Roll Fantasy Camp, which will run from Nov. 8-11, offers attendees a chance to jam, write, record and perform with such musicians as Aerosmiths Joe Perry and drummer Jason Bonham. The Salvation Army Fort Lauderdale, which has been active in Broward County, Florida, since 1926, offers programs that include its Economic Stability Program, the Open Door Project emergency shelter, a food pantry, transitional family housing, New Beginnings for pregnant homeless women and disaster services. South Florida Wildlife Center rescues, rehabilitates and releases native wildlife that has been harmed or displaced and educates the public about coexistence with all animals Fort Lauderdale Gay Mens Chorus works to build community through musical performances and civic engagement.

rbb communications has been named agency of record for Tavistock Development Companys Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina. The agency will develop and manage a strategic public relations and community affairs campaigns for Tavistock as it works to reposition the Fort Lauderdale hotel. The Pier Sixty-Six, built on a location that was once a fuel dock and gas station for Phillips 66 Petroleum, has 384 guest rooms and suites, more than 30,000 square feet of event space, five onsite restaurants, and a 127-slip, deep water marina.

Zapwater Communications has expanded its relationship with Veggie Grill to include all national public relations programming. Zapwater was originally retained in December 2017 to support the launch of Veggie Grills Chicago store openings. Zapwaters scope of work includes media relations, influencer relations, event coordination, local store marketing and strategic partnerships. With 30 locations currently in California, Oregon, Washington and Illinois, Veggie Grill is the largest plant-based chain in the United States. The account will be managed jointly by Zapwaters Chicago and Los Angeles offices.

MCC has been selected as agency of record by Lone Star Analysis, a Dallas-based specialist in predictive and prescriptive analytics solutions. MCC will implement and carry out marketing communication services for the company, with the aim of demonstrating value of its products and services and elevating its brand across multiple industries. Services that MCC will provide to Lone Star include messaging, public relations, market research, creative services and web development. Lone Star uses predictive and prescriptive analytics to improve operational and financial performance for companies in industries such as aerospace, defense, energy, logistics, manufacturing and transportation.
Clarity PR of London has acquired San Francisco's DRSmedia, which has worked for clients such as AOL, LendingRobot, OpenFin, Wearhaus, BOKU and Ya Doggie. CEO/founder Sami McCabe says expanding into SF office is "strategically critical" to the long-term success of the tech firm that also has offices in New York and Berlin.

Kwittken has changed its name to KWT Global. The change reflects what the MDC Partners Inc. firm says is its evolution as an integrated agency as well as marking a shift towards being known as a global brand strategy agency. While Kwittken has traditionally been known for PR, that has not been our primary focus for several years now, and Im excited to transition to a name that reflects our continued growth as an agency, said global chairman and CEO Aaron Kwittken. Headquartered in New York City with offices in London and Toronto, KWT Global serves such clients as American Express, Amway, CGI, Orangetheory Fitness, Leesa Sleep, Deloitte, Pantone, Park Place Technologies, Quartz and PURE Insurance.
Kalinga Literary Festival, British Council Come Together For 5 Films for Freedom' In Bhubaneswar

Religious institutions in Bhubaneswar to reopen for devotees from this date

Teacher who sexually abused an 8-year-old gets life term

Bhubaneswar

oi-PTI

Koraput (Odisha), Aug 7: Odisha's Rayagada district court sentenced a school teacher for life after the teacher was found guilty of sexually abusing an eight year-old student.

Additional district judge Debdutta Das Mohapatra also imposed a fine of Rs 3 lakh on the teacher of the private school. In case of failure to pay the fine, the convict would have to undergo an additional six months in jail, the order said.

Public Prosecutor Ch Srinivas Rao said that apart from the victims statement, the court examined 21 witnesses before pronouncing the verdict. According to the prosecution, the matter came to light after the parents of the boy lodged a complaint with the police following which the teacher was arrested on October 9 last under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, POCSO Act and Juvenile Justice Act.

The convict used to sexually abuse the child and had threatened him not to disclose the matter to anyone, the prosecution said.

For more Bhubaneswar news Click Here.

PTI
24 girls rescued from Deoria shelter home, director arrested

India

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

Varanasi, Aug 7: Uttar Pradesh Police arrested director of shelter home in Deoria and her husband after the shelter home's license was revoked following an inspection by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Police also arrested two persons, including the home's director Girija Tripathi and her husband Mohan Tripathi.

"The allegations are false and I am being framed," news agency ANI quoted Girija Tripathi as saying.

Twenty-four minor girls were rescued from the shelter home on August 5 and search for other 15 girls is underway.

Superintendent of Police Rohan P Kanay that the matter came to light after one of the girls escaped from the shelter home, came to us and said they are treated like servants. She also said that cars come to pick girls above 15 years old and the girls come crying the next day.

"Twenty-four girls were rescued yesterday from the shelter home at station road in the name of Ma Vindhyawasini Mahila Prakishan Evam Samaj Sewa Sansthan, which has 42 inmates. Eighteen inmates are still missing. We have sealed it," said Kanay.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 14:30 [IST]
7th Pay Commission: What CG employees got and what they did not get

7th Pay Commission: 17 lakh employees on strike, Maharashtra govt agrees to pay dues

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Mumbai, Aug 7: In a bid to pressurise the government to implement the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission, 17 lakh Maharashtra government employees would go on strike.

The strike has been called under the banner of the Maharashtra State Government Employees. They say if the recommendations are not implemented, they would go on a three day strike.

The other demands made by them include payment of dearness allowance (DA) for 14 months, a five day working week and also increase the retirement age to 60 years.

However around 1.5 lakh workers withdrew from the strike after a Government Resolution was issued late on Monday night, stating that the pending arrears of DA for a period of 14 months would be paid to them. Another GR was issued in which it was stated that the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission would be implemented fro January 2019 onwards.

Officials say that the other two demands for a five day week and increase in retirement age would be taken up after Diwali. The arrears will be paid with the August salaries. If the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission is delayed, the employees will get the benefit as per the wage structure of the central government employees from January 2019, the GR stated.

President of the employees' association, Milind Sardeshmukh said that last year they had decided to go on strike twice on the same issue, but had called off the same. Despite the Chief Minister assuring us, nothing has happened and that is why we are on strike for three days, he added. He also said that the Class III and IV staff, employees of zilla parishads, municipal councils, teaching and non-teaching staff will also go on strike.

On Saturday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had met government officials and members of the employees' association. Fadnavis had promised to provide benefits of the 7th Pay Commission from January 2019 and arrears from January 2016.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 10:09 [IST]
Aircel-Maxis case: Chidambaram gets interim protection from arrest till October 8

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

New Delhi, Aug 7: Patiala House Court has granted extension of interim protection to former union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti till 8 October, 2018 in the Aircel-Maxis money laundering case.

Chidambaram had on 30 May moved the court seeking protection from arrest in the case, saying all evidence in the matter appears to be documentary in nature which is already in the possession of the incumbent government and nothing was to be recovered from him. Chidambaram arrived at the court early today dressed in lawyer's robes.

The court had earlier granted interim protection from arrest till today to Karti in two cases filed by the CBI and ED in 2011 and 2012, respectively in the Aircel-Maxis matter arising out of 2G spectrum cases.

The matter pertains to grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance to firm M/S Global Communication Holding Services Ltd for investment in Aircel.

Though the name of Chidambaram, who was also quizzed recently by the CBI and the ED in the INX media and the Aircel-Maxis money laundering cases respectively, was mentioned in the charge-sheet, the Congress veteran has not been arrayed as an accused in the probe report.

The ED probe report had said the payments of Rs 26 lakh to Advantage Strategic Consultancies Private Limited (ASCPL) and Rs 90 lakh to Chess Management Services Pvt Limited (CMSPL), respectively, were made as alleged bribe money by parent company of Aircel Ltd, namely Aircel Televentures Ltd (ATVL) and Maxis and its associate Malaysian companies, respectively.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 10:38 [IST]
Attempt to cement alliance with the election of deputy chairman of RS

India

oi-Vinod

By Vinod

New Delhi, Aug 7: Both the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) as well as the united Opposition have decided to go far a different candidate from their original choice. The NDA wanted to field Shiromani Akali Dal leader Naresh Gujaral while united opposition was for Shubhendu Shekhar Roy of the Trinamool Congress. This decision has more to do with the future strategy of both the groups.

The NDA has agreed to the name of Harivansa Narayan Singh while the united Opposition decided for Vandana Chavan - a two time Rajya Sabha member from Nationalist Congress Party. Actually relation between the JD (U) and the NDA has not been very smooth and it was expected after the JD (U) joined the NDA that the party would get some ministerial berth but that did not happen. Bihar chief minister was under severe attack from the opposition.

Speculation has been rife that the JD (U) might once again go to the Mahagathbandhan and similarly Nationalist Congress Party joining the NDA bandwagon with Shiv Sena constantly tasting the patience of the BJP. So the political analysts were looking at this move as an effort of cementing these allies to their respective group.

The announced candidates have their advantages and disadvantages. Harivansh Narayan Singh is considered to be a very soft and honest man with friends everywhere so his appeal may go all across similarly Vandana Chavan being a women has her own advantages. The Congress does not want the NCP to go away as lot will depend on the unity of these political parties. In the 245-member of the house 122 votes will be required for the victory with one seat vacent and if the 13 votes of Biju Janata Dal go to the NDA candidate only then victory of its candidate will be ensured else the opposition has a better chance to win it.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 22:34 [IST]
Between 2015-17, Shiv Sena saw a dip in donations by 70 per cent

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

New Delhi, Aug 7: The total amount of donations declared by Regional Parties, including both above and below Rs 20,000, was Rs 91.37 cr, from 6,339 donations.

Under Section 29C(1) of the Representation of People's Act, 1951, political parties are required to prepare a report providing details of contributions in excess of twenty thousand rupees from any person in a particular financial year to avail 100 per cent tax exemption. However, in 2016-17, we see that 7 Regional Parties (SAD, MGP, DMK, AINRC, AGP, NPF and DMDK) have also provided details of donations received below Rs 20,000 in their contributions report says Association for Democratic Reforms in a report.

With regard to the total amount of donations, Shiv Sena leads with Rs 25.65 cr from 297 donations followed by AAP, which has declared receiving Rs 24.73 cr from 3865 donations. SAD declared receiving Rs 15.45 cr that is the third highest amongst all regional parties.72.05% or Rs 65.83 cr of the total donations received by Regional Parties have been received solely by top three Regional Parties.

Comparison:

AGP, SAD, JDS, MNS and AAP saw the maximum percentage increase in their income from donations between 2015-16 and 2016-17.

Donations to AGP increased by 7183%, followed by SAD for which it was 5842%, and JDS that saw an increase of 596%.

Amongst the top five parties, only Shiv Sena saw a decline in the donations received from 2015-16. The donations that it had received in 2015-16, declined by 70% or Rs 61.19 cr in 2016-17.

Cash donations declared by the Regional Parties:

ECI notification dated 29th August, '14 stated that "...no tax deduction shall be allowed on the contributions made in cash by any person or company to a political party". This notification was applicable for donations made from FY 2014-15 onwards. But, the Regional Parties have declared receiving Rs 2.82 cr via donations in cash.

Out of the total donations of Rs 91.37 cr declared by the Regional Parties, Rs 2.82 cr from 1919 donations was received in cash during FY 2016-17. This formed 3.09% of the total donations to the parties.

Maximum donations in cash was declared by AINRC, which collected a total of Rs 65 lakhs, followed by AGP with Rs 41.2 lakhs and NPF with Rs 41 lakhs.

Among all the states, donors from Assam made the highest donations of Rs 72.7 lakhs in cash followed by donors from Puducherry who donated a total of Rs 65.3 lakhs in cash.

Donations worth Rs 60 lakhs in cash did not have address details. 6 Regional Parties (NPF, MGP, DMK, BPF, Shiv Sena and AGP) have received such donations in FY 2016-17.

State-wise donations to Regional Parties

Segregation of donations according to location was made by ADR based on the addresses provided by the parties in their donations report to the ECI.

Donations declared by the Regional Parties contained details of donations received from 29 States/Union Territories/common capitals and 27 countries according to the declared address of donors. Only AAP declared donations from abroad.

Regional parties have declared receiving the highest amount of money or Rs 20.86 cr from Delhi, followed by Rs 19.7 cr from Maharashtra and Rs 9.42 cr from Punjab.

35.67% or Rs 8.82 cr of the total declared donations to AAP was received from abroad.

A total of Rs 14.38 cr, (15.74% of total donations received by the Regional parties, FY 2016-17), could not be attributed to any State/Union Territory due to incomplete or lack of information provided by the parties.

Disclosure of PAN details in donations

Out of 25 Regional Parties who had declared receiving donations, 18 parties, have declared donations of donors without their PAN details.

Rs 23.08 cr or 25.26% of the total amount of donations received by Regional Parties do not have PAN details.

It is to be noted that parties like BPF, MGP, PMK, RJD and ZNP who have declared 100 percent donations, have not provided PAN details of even a single donor in their donations statement.

It is seen that AAP declared receiving Rs 8.82 cr from abroad out of which PAN details are not available for donations amounting to Rs 8.32 cr.
BJP MP, G V L Rao alleges fund diversion in AP, TDP denies charge

India

oi-Madhuri

New Delhi, Aug 7: Continuing his fight against the TDP, BJP Rajya Sabha member GVL Narasimha Rao has alleged that the ruling TDP credited Rs 53,039 crore in the personal deposit (PD) accounts of officials of state departments, of which there is no record of expenditure or submitted bills have not been shown to CAG.

The TDP said that Rao was making wild allegations without knowing the meaning of PD accounts, and Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board Vice-Chairman C Kutumba Rao said the government was ready for inquiry in the matter.

Quoting the CAG report of AP, Rao has claimed that the TDP government was involved in a scam like 2G and Commonwealth Games, amounting to Rs 53,039 crore through 58,418 accounts. Alleging that the TDP government diverted the funds for other purposes, he said, "I demand a CBI inquiry and dare CM N Chandrababu Naidu to write a letter to the Centre and seek a CBI inquiry."

Kutumba Rao said the MP had incorrect information. "The number of PD accounts with AP government is about 24,000 only. I categorically deny that funds were diverted or misused..." he said.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 5:53 [IST]
Prashant Kishor in viral video: With or without Modi, BJP will be centre of Indian polity for decades

BJP to observe 'social justice fortnight' from Aug 15-30

India

pti-PTI

New Delhi, Aug 7: The BJP will observe a "social justice fortnight" from August 15-30 and "social justice week" from August 1-9 from next year to mark the parliamentary nod to a bill seeking to empower an OBC commission and likely passage of a bill to strengthen a law against Dalit atrocities.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the announcement at a BJP parliamentary party meeting, during which he also said that the ongoing Monsoon session will be remembered as a "session of social justice".

He invoked 'August Kranti', named so as Mahatama Gandhi launched the Quit India movement in this month in 1942, as he spoke about the "historic" significance of the bills passed in this month by Parliament.

Briefing reporters, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar said Modi recalled that in his speech following the BJP's victory in the 2014 polls he had said his government would be dedicated to the poor, villages and backward sections of society and these bills underline this commitment. "A historic law has been passed and another is likely to be passed in a day or two," Kumar said.

BJP leaders have been asked to reach out to people far and wide between August 15 and 30 to inform them about the work the government has done, he said. The bill to confer constitutional status on a commission for other backward classes (OBC) was passed yesterday by Parliament.

The legislation to strengthen the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act has been passed by Lok Sabha and is likely to be tabled in Rajya Sabha in a day or two.

Party sources said Modi also spoke about his government's work for developing backward regions and backward sections of the society since it took over. A resolution was also passed in the meeting to hail Modi's leadership following the passage of the bills.

PTI
Bodh Gaya blast probe shows how terrorists from Bengal seek shelter in Kerala

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

New Delhi, Aug 7: The National Investigating Agency has arrested two persons in connection with the planning of a bomb blast at the Bodh Gaya complex on January 19 2018. The arrested persons have been identified as Abdul Karim and Mustafizur Rehman, both residents of West Bengal.

They were arrested from the labour camp of Bengali speaking persons in Mallapuram in Kerala. The NIA says that the duo were hiding in this camp after planting the improvised explosive devices.

The NIA has so far managed to establish the identity of 10 persons involved in the conspiracy. With the nabbing of these two persons, the number of persons to be arrested in this case has gone up to 5.

The NIA says that the conspiracy was hatched by ten persons belonging to the Bangladesh based outfit, Jamaat-ul Mujahideen, Bangladesh.

It may be recalled that the Intelligence Bureau had warned that several illegal immigrants would look to make their way down south and the entry point would be Kerala. In the above mentioned case, the arrests were made from a Bengali camp. Officers have been saying for long that illegal migrants from Bangladesh take shelter in such camps, as it becomes hard for security agencies to detect.

Why the big influx of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants into South India will happen through Kerala

Kerala's Bangladesh link:

Last year the police in Kerala had arrested 7 Bangladeshi nationals employed at a plywood factory and during the probe it was found that they were illegal immigrants.

Officials say that the route into South India would be through Kerala, following which attempts would be made to infiltrate into the other southern states such as Telangana and Karnataka.

They would be brought in as estate labour like has been done in the past officials say. In the midst of all this, there is also talk in Kodagu district, Karnataka, not to employe such persons until and unless they have a valid Indian citizenship document.

Bangladeshi's blend with the Bengali speaking population and there is no proper or effective mechanism to identify them. Officials point out that the problem becomes harder to deal with as the population is a floating one.

Calamitous situation in Bengal: 3 crore illegal Bangladeshis reside there

They move from one state to another with the help of touts and this makes it even harder to keep tabs on them. Moreover illegal immigration from Bangladesh extended up to Kerala through the migration corridor.

This corridor starting at Bangladesh connects to Kerala through Assam and West Bengal. The illegal immigrants also find Kerala to be a good place to live in as it has the country's highest wage rate in the unorganised sector. Further the chances of interceptions are less in Kerala and this has made the place even more ideal to be in.

The IB had after the publication of the NRC had sounded an alert stating that more people from Assam could infiltrate into southern states. The respective state police have been told to keep a close watch on the borders and also track down touts who have been aiding illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. The alert is particularly high in states such as Karnataka, Odisha, Telangana and West Bengal.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 7:14 [IST]
Bodhgaya: After Kerala, NIA finds another JMB terrorist in Bengaluru

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

New Delhi, Aug 7: The National Investigation Agency has arrested a terrorist wanted in several cases in India and Bangladesh from Bengaluru. Mohammad Jahidul Islam, aged 38 is also a wanted in the Bodhgaya blast case.

Islam, who is a member of the Jamaat ul Mujahideen Bangladesh was arrested from Ramagara, around 50 kilometres from Bengaluru, Karnataka. Based on specific information, the NIA raided his home.

During the search, the NIA found some electronic devices besides traces of explosives. He is a top leader of JMB in India and is wanted in Burdwan blast case and in many other cases in Bangladesh also. He is the master mind of the Bodhgaya case.

Earlier the NIA arrested two persons in connection with the planning of a bomb blast at the Bodh Gaya complex on January 19 2018. The arrested persons have been identified as Abdul Karim and Mustafizur Rehman, both residents of West Bengal.

Bodh Gaya blast probe shows how terrorists from Bengal seek shelter in Kerala

They were arrested from the labour camp of Bengali speaking persons in Mallapuram in Kerala. The NIA says that the duo were hiding in this camp after planting the improvised explosive devices.

The NIA has so far managed to establish the identity of 10 persons involved in the conspiracy. With the nabbing of these two persons, the number of persons to be arrested in this case has gone up to 5.

The NIA says that the conspiracy was hatched by ten persons belonging to the Bangladesh based outfit, Jamaat-ul Mujahideen, Bangladesh.

It may be recalled that the Intelligence Bureau had warned that several illegal immigrants would look to make their way down south and the entry point would be Kerala. In the above mentioned case, the arrests were made from a Bengali camp. Officers have been saying for long that illegal migrants from Bangladesh take shelter in such camps, as it becomes hard for security agencies to detect.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 14:10 [IST]
Astrological incompatibility can't be an excuse to go back on marriage promise: Bombay HC

Aryan Khan to spend another night in jail as Bail hearing adjourned till tomorrow

PIL in Bombay HC seeks to restrain Nawab Malik from making comments against NCB

Abu Salem's parole rejected, marriage on hold

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

Bombay, Aug 7: 1993 Mumbai blasts case convict Abu Salem's parole application to get married for a was rejected byBombay High Court on Tuesday.

Salem, who is lodged in Taloja jail had sought parole for 45 days to get married for the second time.

On April 21, Navi Mumbai Commissioner rejected Salem's parole application, which he applied for his marriage.

Earlier, Salem had claimed to have married Kausar over the phone during a train journey in 2014 when he was being taken to Lucknow for a court hearing.

Kausar had subsequently filed an application before a local court threatening to kill herself if she was not granted permission to marry the jailed gangster.

Salem has been in jail since his extradition from Portugal In 2005. The gangster is serving a life sentence in jail after being convicted in the 1993 Mumbai blasts that had killed 257 and injured 713 people. He has also been sentenced to seven years rigorous imprisonment in 2002 extortion case by Delhi Court.
Mehul Choksi gets bail by Dominica HC, can travel to Antigua for medical treatment

Bringing Mehul Choksi back: How India plans to do it

India

oi-Madhuri

New Delhi, Aug 7: India is eyeing to bring back bank fraud accused Mehul Choksi from Antigua under the provision of a law of the island nation which provides for extradition of a fugitive to a designated Commonwealth country, official sources said.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a gazette notification on August 3 to make the Antiguan law enforceable and bring back Choksi. India and Antigua do not have a bilateral extradition pact.

"As per the provisions of the Extradition Act, 1993 of Antigua and Barbuda, a fugitive may be extradited to a designated Commonwealth Country or a State with which there are general or special arrangement or a bilateral treaty," said a source.

The notification specified that the provisions of India's Extradition Act, 1962 shall apply to Antigua and Barbuda with retrospective effect from 2001 when the Caribbean nation notified India as designated Commonwealth Country under its extradition law law.

India has handed over a request to Antigua for extradition of Mehul Choksi who is charged in connection with India's biggest banking fraud and is now living in the Caribbean nation after taking its citizenship.

Extradition Act shall apply with respect to Antigua says government

The sources said the notification will constitute an extradition arrangement between India and Antigua under the island nation's Extradition Act of 1993.

A team comprising officials from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and other agencies was sent to Antigua a couple of days ago to request the Antiguan authorities to extradite Choksi, wanted in India in the USD 2 billion Punjab National bank scam.

The team, led by Additional Secretary in the MEA's Consular and Passport Division here, also presented details of the case against Choksi who is one of the alleged masterminds of the scam along with his nephew Nirav Modi.

As per reports, Antiguan authorities cleared Choksi's citizenship in November 2017 after India did not give any adverse report to stall his application for it.

Choksi had fled India on January 4 this year and took oath of allegiance in Antigua on January 15. His citizenship was cleared in November 2017.

Choksi's application for citizenship in Antigua in May 2017 was accompanied with clearance from the local police as required by norms, Antiguan newspaper the Daily Observer reported, citing a statement from the Citizenship by Investment Unit of Antigua and Barbuda (CIU).

It noted the police clearance certificate (PCC) from the Regional Passport Office in Mumbai said that there was no adverse information against Choksi which would render him ineligible for grant of travel facilities including visa for Antigua and Barbuda.

When asked about the PCC to Choksi, a spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs had said it was given on the basis of a clear police verification report (PVR) available on his passport that time.

Under the Citizenship by Investment Program of Antigua and Barbuda, a person can take their passport on a minimum investment of USD 1,00,000 in the National Development Fund.

Choksi and his companies allegedly availed credit from overseas branches of Indian banks using the fraudulent guarantees of PNB given through letters of undertaking (LoUs) and letters of credit issued by the Brady House branch which were not repaid, bringing liability on the state-run bank, the officials have said.

An LoU is a guarantee given by an issuing bank to Indian banks having branches abroad to grant short-term credit to the applicant.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 6:05 [IST]
Prashant Kishor in viral video: With or without Modi, BJP will be centre of Indian polity for decades

Can BJP win RS deputy chairman elections? Here are the numbers

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

New Delhi, Aug 7: The fight between the NDA and a joint opposition would yet again be put to test on August 9, when the elections to the post of deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha will be held.

Although the opposition is yet to decide on who its candidate would be, but the NDA would most likely go ahead with JD(U) leader Harivansh Narayan Singh. On Monday there was hectic activity in Parliament, when several leaders of the opposition met to finalise a candidate.

From the opposition camp, the front-runners to the post currently are Tiruchi Siva of the DMK and Vandana Chavan of the NCP. However the Congress has not yet completely ruled out the possibility of having its own candidate. It would be about winnability, the Congress said.

Going by the existing situation, the NDA does not have the numbers on its side. It has the support of 90 MPs in the Upper House with parties such as the BPF, JD(U), NPF, RPI, SAD and SDF backing it.

Dy. Chairman polls: Rajya Sabha numbers, party wise

The NDA would also look for the support of three out of the four nominated members. Going by these numbers, the NDA is still short of around 32 votes. To win the election in the 245 member house, a candidate would require the support of 123 members.

The opposition on the other hand has the support of 112 MPs which includes the Congress, AAP, TMC, BSP, CPI (M), DMK, IUML, JD(S), Kerala Congress, NCP, RLD, PDP, SP, and TDP. With these numbers, the opposition is still short by 11 members.

All eyes would be on the BJD, Shiv Sena, INLD, TRS and YSR Congress Party. It is still not clear which way the Shiv Sena would vote. In the recently held no confidence motion, the Shiv Sena said that it had abstained from voting. The BJD too had abstained from voting.

While the AIADMK had backed the BJP during the trust vote, this time around it would be interesting to see which way the party votes. With 12 members in the RS, this party could make all the difference for the BJP to edge past the opposition's candidate. The united opposition is hoping that some of the votes of the AIADMK is likely to get split as the party does not have a chief whip in the Upper House.

Table: Rajya Sabha numbers, party wise

Rajya Sabha Strength 245 Vacant Seats 01 Magic Number 122 NDA 90 BJP 73 BPF 01 JD(U) 06 Nominated 04 NPF 01 RPI (A) 01 SAD 03 SDF 01 Joint opposition 112 Aam Aadmi Party 03 Trinamool Congress 13 Bahujan Samaj Party 04 Communist Party of India 02 Communist Party of India (M) 05 Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam 04 Congress 50 Indian Union Muslim League 01 JD(S) 01 Kerala Congress (M) 01 Nationalist Congress Party 04 Rashtriya Janata Dal 05 Samajwadi Party 13 Telegu Desam Party 06 Undecided 42 AIADMK 13 BJD 09 Independents 06 TRS 06 Shiv Sena 03 YSRCP 02 PDP 02 INLD 01 Vacant 01
Covid test must for those visiting Bihar from other states during Diwali, Chhath

Bihar By-polls: Lalu Yadav to campaign for RJD candidates on Wednesday to ensure 'visarjan' of Nitish Kumar

Check Bihar Board 12th Compartment Exam Answer Key, last date to object is Aug 8

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

New Delhi, Aug 7: The Bihar Board 12th Compartment Exam Answer Key has been released. The answer key for objective questions is available on the official website.

Students must keep in mind that the answer keys are being hosted on the board's new website. This year onward, Bihar Board had introduced 50% objective questions in the board examinations. The board also made arrangements for separate OMR sheets for answering the objective questions.

The answer keys were uploaded on the official website of the board on August 5, 2018. In case of any objection, students can submit the same throught the online link available on the official website.

Students would need to visit the official Bihar Board website: www.biharboardonline.com and click on the 'Register objection regarding answer key' link. The last date to submit objections is August 8, 2018. Concerns raised after the last date will not be entertained by the board.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 10:29 [IST]
Congress in a fix over NRC as which way to go; BJP wants to keep the issue alive

India

oi-Vinod

By Vinod

New Delhi, Aug 7: The Congress wants to eat the cake and have it too in the case of National Register of Citizenship (NRC) in Assam as it failed to take any definite stand on the issue. The party seems to be in a fix as it does not want to lose support of the minority community and also does not want majority community to go away. On the other hand the BJP wants to keep this issue alive till 2019 Lok Sabha elections to reap maximum benefit out of it.

Reportedly, Congress president Rahul Gandhi was hounded from all across in the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on the issue of NRC leading to the clarifications made by its spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala. It was said in the CWC meeting that the Congress is always trapped by the BJP on such issues. It was also discussed in the CWC that actually the NRC originally belongs to the Congress which was part of the Assam Accord signed by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and others while the BJP then opposed it.

Now in a changed political environment where Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee appears to be epicenter of the Opposition unity, the Congress is left with only one option of keeping the TMC in good humour. This is the reason the Congress supported its unjust demands as witnessed today in the Rajya Sabha on the issue of Silchar and Minimum Support Price. Actually, the Congress faced revolt from the state party president and former chief minister of the state speaking in support of NRC by calling it their own. The BJP utilized this opportune moment first to call the Congress the party of Muslims as Congress president Rahul Gandhi is accused of saying to the Urdu editors and now it is alleged to be the party of infiltrators.

It was said in the meeting that let Mamata take a lead on it as it is more of her political benefits and for the Congress let the Assam unit handle it and the Congress must not shy away from owning it as it deported over 80000 Bangladeshies. So Rahul backtrack his earlier stand of fiercely opposing NRC and once again the Congress is treading very cautiously on the issue. It wants the TMC to lead the issue and the Congress wants to support from the back. The Congress earlier was trying not to be found on the same page as the TMC but now it wants her to lead the issue.

Now the Congress wants to go slow on the issue but the TMC is very aggressive. The party can afford to take such decisions as Mamata is the sole decision making person in the party while the Congress has several checks and balances and the party might have its repercussion on forthcoming elections so any jerk reaction might harm the party which is already out of power in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh for past 15 years and infighting in Rajasthan might harm it.

Political analysts like Rajvir Sharma said that the impact of NRC will not be confined to any particular area as demand to identify infiltrators has started coming from everywhere be it Delhi, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh or any other states in the country. It is a kind of Pandoora's Vox which once open will be difficult to handle.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 20:07 [IST]
Kallakudi agitation

The first major protest that aided Karunanidhi in gaining ground in Tamil politics was his involvement in the Kallakudi agitation in Kallakudi. Original name of this industrial town was Kallakudi and it was changed to Dalmiapuram after a cement mogul who built a cement plant there. DMK wanted to change the name back to Kallakudi.

In the protest Karunanidhi and his companions erased the name Dalmiapuram from the railway station and lay down on the tracks blocking the course of trains. Two people died in the protest and Karunanidhi was arrested.

First time in Tamil Nadu assembly

For the first time, Karunanidhi, at the age of 33, entered the Tamil Nadu assembly winning the Kulithalai seat in the 1957 election. He became the DMK treasurer in 1961 and deputy leader of opposition in the state assembly in the year 1962 and when the DMK came to power in 1967, he became the minister for public works. When Annadurai expired in 1969, Karunanidhi became the third Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and the first leader of DMK. He has held various positions in the party and government during his long career in Tamil Nadu political arena.

However, he suffered multiple electoral defeats against his primary opponent M.G.Ramachandran's ADMK until the latter's death in 1987.

Dravidian movement

Critics argue that Karunanidhi is really a beneficiary of the Dravidian movement and its vehicle, the political party Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). The movement started by by E.V. Ramaswami Naicker aka Periyar and C.N. Annadurai, who led the party in the Lok Sabha. Hence, Karunanidhi inherited significant political capital unlike his contemporary EMS Namboodiripad in Kerala. However, Karunanidhi stood apart from other leaders when he faced Indira Gandhi during Emergency. For this, his government was dismissed, though on grounds of charges of corruption.

His arrest in 2001

Karunanidhi has seen up and downs in his political journey spanning over 60 years. In the 1991 elections, AIADMK ousted DMK and Karunanidhi was the sole DMK candidate to have been returned after the electoral battle. He, too, resigned in disgust. His political life has reached a low when he was dragged away by police officers from his home on June 30, 2001. During J Jayalalithaa's regime Karunanidhi was arrested for alleged corruption in the construction of ten flyovers in Chennai. The arrest and its manner led to wide criticism and agitation around the nation in Tamil Nadu.

13 times elected to TN Assembly

He has been elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly 13 times (from 1957 to 2016 elections) and once to the now abolished Tamil Nadu Legislative Council. At the end of the 5-year administration, the DMK lost the majority of seats in the legislative assembly of Tamil Nadu when elections were held in 2011, thereby ceding power again to the AIADMK under J. Jayalalithaa.
High grade Ghol fish caught off Mumbai coast fetches astounding Rs 5.5 lakh

India

oi-Vikas

By Vikas

Mumbai, Aug 7: Apart from being delicacy, a Ghol Fish is said to have medicinal properties and is an important ingredient in making a variety of medicines. Two fishermen from Palaghar in Maharashtra struck gold on Sunday when they caught a high grade Ghol fish which weighed around 30 kgs, reported TOI.

Ghol fish has a big market in Singapore and Malaysia. This fish is considered amongst the most-expensive variety of the marine fish.

The fish was caught by Mahesh Meher and his brother Bharat while they were returning from their usual catch to the Murbe coast.

Catching Ghol fish is considered as a lottery and almost fisherman ventures into the sea wishing that he would catch one. But, Ghol fishes are rare and its not everyday that fishermen come across it. Usually one ghol fish weighs between 15-20 kilograms, and Meher brothers struck a real jackpot by catching one that weighed 30 kgs.

It is said that even a low grade Ghol fish fetches around Rs 800-1,000 a kg. The highest grade fish, such as the one caught on Sunday, is so much in demand that an auction is held to sell it.

Even before Meher brothers reached the cost, traders and exporters were ready to buy the fish and were quoting high prices. Finally, an auction was held which ended when a bidder quoted Rs 5.5 lakh.

In 2012, a fisherman from Gujarat caught nearly 380 Ghol fish from the Jhakhau creek in mid-sea. The catch fetshed him over Rs 80 lakh.

What is ghol fish?

Protonibea diacanthus, commonly known as the blackspotted croaker, is a species of fish native to the Indo-Pacific region. This fish is considered amongst the most-expensive variety of the marine fish. Its heart is known as the 'Sea Gold', which is said to have medicinal properties and is an important ingredient in making a variety of medicines.

Its fins are used by pharmaceutical companies to manufacture dissolvable stitches. The fins are also used in wine purification and are exported to countries like Singapore. Ghol reportedly sells in the market for nearly Rs 450-600 per kilogram.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 10:26 [IST]
M Karunanidhi was kept under house arrest for 2 years, TN govt to probe

Karunanidhi's 98th birth anniversary: BSY says he played important role in creating harmony between two states

Karunanidhi dies of multi-organ failure; President Kovind, PM Modi condole his demise

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

New Delhi, Aug 7: President Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP chief Amit Shah on Tuesday expressed condolences to M Karunanidhi's family.

President Ram Nath Kovind expressed sadness at the demise of M Karunanidhi.

Taking to twitter, he wrote: "Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers."

Extremely sad to learn of the passing of Thiru M. Karunanidhi. A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers #PresidentKovind  President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 7, 2018

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today mourned the death of DMK president M Karunanidhi, describing him as a prolific thinker and a deep-rooted mass leader who stood for regional aspiration and national progress.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadu's voice was effectively heard," Modi said in his tweets.

My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/7ZZQi9VEkm  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

The PM said that he had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi on several occasions and his understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. He was firmly committed to democratic ideals and his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered, Modi said.

I have had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi Ji on several occasions. His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered. pic.twitter.com/cbMiMPRy7l  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 7, 2018

"We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalised," the PM said.

"My thoughts are with the family and the countless supporters of Karunanidhi Ji in this hour of grief. India and particularly Tamil Nadu will miss him immensely. May his soul rest in peace," he tweeted.

BJP chief Amit Shah expressed anguish to learn about the demise of veteran politician, M Karunanidhi ji.

Anguished to learn about the demise of veteran politician, M Karunanidhi ji. He had an impressive life journey, starting as a screen writer in Tamil film industry to being five term Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. No one can forget his struggle during Emergency, imposed in 1975.  Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 7, 2018

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief M Karunanidhi passed away on Tuesday at the age of 94. Kalaignar, as he was fondly called, breathed his last at 6:10 pm.
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Karunanidhi laid to rest with full-state honours at Marina Beach

India

oi-Oneindia Staff

By Oneindia Staff

Chennai, Aug 8: DMK patriarch and five-time Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Muthuvel Karunanidhi was finally laid to rest on Wednesday alongside Jayalalithaa, DMK founder CN Annadurai and MGR at Marina beachfront in Chennai as a sea of humanity bid him a tearful farewell. He was buried with full state honours next to his mentor and former chief minister C N Annadurai at the Marina beach. No Hindu rituals were performed as Karunanidhi was a self-proclaimed atheist and rationalist.

Karunanidhi's son M K Stalin received the national flag wrapped around his father's body. Other family members including the leader's wife Rajathi Ammal, other sons and daughters showered flower petals at his feet.

Draped in a tricolour, the five-time chief minister was taken for his burial in an open procession. A sea of supporters were lined up along the route to catch a final glimpse of the departed leader and chanted slogans for their Thalaivar. The last journey of 'Kalaignar' Karunanidhi began at 4:00 pm.

The 94-year-old Dravidian icon, who was affectionately called as Thalaivar and Kalaignar, had breathed his last at Kauvery hospital after fighting for life for 11 days. He had been battling age-related ailments for a long time.

Earlier today, leaders from across the country, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, came to Chennai to pay their last respects to the doyen of Tamil Nadu politocs who breathed his last at Kauvery hospital in Chennai on Tuesday.

Several Chief Ministers and political leaders paid tribute to late DMK chief M Karunanidhi at the Rajaji Hall here today. Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, Telangana CM K Chandrasekhar Rao, CPI(M) general secretary Prakash Karat, former chief ministers of Kerala and Uttar Pradesh, Oommen Chandy and Akilesh Yadav respectively, among other leaders paid homage to the departed leader.

Here are the Highlights:

DMK working president MK Stalin said in an interview that DMK supremo Karunanidhi's health is stable and that doctors are monitoring his condition at the hospital.



Actor Vijay meets DMK leader MK Stalin at Kauvery hospital where former Tamil Nadu CM M Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment

Chennai: Actor Vijay meets DMK leader MK Stalin at Kauvery hospital where former Tamil Nadu CM M Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment pic.twitter.com/CxRFxzKYOz  ANI (@ANI) August 1, 2018

Rajnikanth meets Karunanidhi.

On July 31, Congress president Rahul Gandhi met Karunanidhi and wished him a speedy recovery.

I wanted to come and see M Karunanidhi Ji. He is a tough person, I met him & he is stable. Sonia ji has sent her best wishes and regards to the family: Rahul Gandhi

Congress President Rahul Gandhi to travel to Chennai today to meet DMK chief M Karunanidhi who is admitted to Kauvery Hospital.

Stalin says Karunanidhi's condition is stable and that the veteran leader continues to remain under keen observation of doctors.



Representatives of Sri Lanka President, Maithripala Sirisena, visited Kauvery hospital to meet former Tamil Nadu CM M Karunanidhi. They submitted a letter from Sirisena to DMK working President MK Stalin wishing speedy recovery to Karunanidhi.

NCP leader Sharad Pawar visited Chennai's Kauvery hospital today. He met M K Stalin and Kanimozhi and inquired about the Karunanidhi's health.



Supporters of DMK chief M Karunanidhi pray at his residence in Coimbatore where he used to reside in 1945. He is currently admitted in Chennai's Kauvery hospital.



Visuals from outside Kauvery Hospital in Chennai where DMK Chief M #Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment

#Visuals from outside Kauvery Hospital in Chennai where DMK Chief M #Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment. #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/ious2kR6GT  ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018

DMK supremo Karunanidhi is fighting with Yaman (the God of death) but he will return victorious, said MDMK general secretary Vaiko Kaveri after visting him at Kauvery Hospital on Monday.

Isha Yoga founder and spiritual guru Jaggi vasudev also visited DMK chief Karunanidhi at the Kauvery Hospital on Monday, News18 Tamil reported.

AIADMK member Nanjil Sampath and famous Tamil poet Vairamuthu visited DMK chief Karunanidhi in Kauvery Hospital on Monday, according to local media reports.

E Palaniswami met Karunanidhi in ICU. He said that the DMK chief is doing fine and a team of expert doctors team is monitoring him, according to reports.

DMK volunteers need to maintain peace and cooperate with the police, MK Stalin requests to supporters.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswami and and deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam have arrived at the Kauvery hospital to enquire about M Karunanidhi's health, according to sources.

DMK workers continue to gather outside Kauvery Hospital in Chennai where DMK Chief M Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment.

According to Thanthi TV, DMK chief Karunanidhi's daughter Kanimozhi who had stayed at the hospital overnight has said that he is doing good and his well-wishers and party workers should be "brave" in these testing times.

DMK workers continue to gather outside Kauvery Hospital in Chennai where DMK Chief M #Karunanidhi is undergoing treatment. pic.twitter.com/Y98hwdh0RZ  ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018

A DMK worker died of a heart attack in Thiruvarur on Sunday morning after hearing about the deteriorating health of party veteran M Karunanidhi. Another DMK worker, Raju, committed suicide by hanging himself on Sunday, according to local media reports.

The security was beefed up both at the hospital and Karunanidhi's residence on Sunday.

DMK leader A Raja, in an address to people outside Kauvery Hospital in Chennai, asked not to believe in rumours. Raja said, "Karunanidhi is responding well to treatment".

A massive crowd has gathered outside Kauvery hostpital and a tight security has been put in place. Some reports had earlier said that Karunanidhi's condition was upgraded to 'very critical' from 'critical'.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswami, who was in Salem, has reportedly cancelled all his meetings and rushed for Chennai.

Leaders cutting across party lines are arriving at Kauvery hospital. Massive crowds have gathered outside the hospital. People are shouting slogans "Long live Kalaignar".

MK Stalin issues statement over M Karunanidhi's health condition,states 'There was unexpected setback in his health but after intense medical care,he's normalising.Doctors' team is continuously monitoring him.Appeal to cadres to not indulge in violence or disturb police or public pic.twitter.com/1tsAoUF4mU  ANI (@ANI) July 29, 2018

Karunanidhi was admitted to the Hospital in a critical condition around 1.30 a.m. on Saturday after his blood pressure began to fall. He was rushed to the hospital in an ambulance past Friday midnight from his Gopalapuram residence.

Former BJD leader Bijayant Jay Panda earlier called on M Karunanidhi at Kauvery hospital today and wished for the DMK president's speedy recovery.

"I came here to convey my best wishes for Karunanidhi Ji's speedy recovery. He has played a tremendous role in social transformation and economic development of the nation. I met MK Stalin, Kanimozhi and other DMK leaders," Panda told ANI after meeting.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu earlier today met the DMK Chief at Kauvery hospital where Karunanidhi is admitted following a drop in blood pressure.

The crowd stayed put outside the hospital even past midnight. Despite assurances that Karunanidhi was recovering, the crowd refused to disperse.

Anna University has announced that there has been no holiday declared for its constituent colleges.

BJD leader Bijayant Jay Panda calls on M Karunanidhi.



Vice President Venkaiah Naidu meets DMK Chief M Karunanidhi at Kauvery hospital where the former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister was admitted following a drop in blood pressure.

DMK supporters gathered outside Chennai's Kauvery hospital, where DMK Chief M Karunanidhi was admitted following drop in blood pressure.

Police personnel have cordoned off for the entire area for general public.

Karunanidhi's condition has hogged attention over the past couple of days, with political leaders from across the spectrum lining up to visit him. Vice President Venkaiah Naidu will meet Karunanidhi at the hospital on Sunday.

Former Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi's health condition continues to remain stable with ongoing active medical support, said the latest bulletin issued by Kauvery Hospital in Chennai.

The hospital statement said, "DMK President and former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Kalaignar Dr M Karunanidhi's health condition continues to be remain stable with ongoing active medical support. He is continuously being monitored & treated by the panel of expert doctors in the Intensive Care Unit."

Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman meets DMK's MK Stalin at Chennai's Kauvery hospital to inquire about M Karunanidhi's health condition

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad visits Karunanidhi at Kauvery Hospital

TN CM E Palainiswami's statement: Karunanidhi was not feeling well & was undergoing treatment at home. Now, he is being given the best treatment at the hospital. Our ministers had met MK Stalin and inquired about his health. He will recover soon. If necessary we are willing to provide any help with medical aid.

He is better. His blood pressure has stabilised: DMK leader Kanimozhi on DMK President M Karunanidhi's health condition.

Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit met MK Stalin at Kauvery Hospital, where DMK President M Karunanidhi was admitted late last night.

DMK supporters continue to gather outside Kauvery Hospital, where DMK President M Karunanidhi is admitted.

Tamil Nadu governor Banwarilal Purohit visits DMK President M Karunanidhi at Kauvery Hospital who was admitted to the hospital late last night following a drop in blood pressure.

MK Stalin arrived at Kauvery Hospital, where DMK President Karunanidhi is admitted following a drop in blood pressure.

DMK supporters gathered outside Kauvery Hospital, where DMK President is admitted.

Karunanidhi, 94, was admitted in the Intensive Care Unit of Kauvery Hospital at 1:30 am.

After the hospital informed that Karunanidhi was responding to treatment, the crowd started to disperse. His family members including Stalin and former Union Minister Dayanidhi Maran too left the hospital.

The hospital in a statement said he was brought there after his blood pressure had dropped.

"His blood pressure has been stabilised with medical management and he continues to be monitored and treated by the panel of experts," the hospital said.

Several senior DMK leaders, including working president M K Stalin and his estranged elder brother M K Alagiri were at the hospital.

Other frontline leaders such as Duraimurugan, Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi and former Union minister A Raja were also there.

Hundreds of party cadres and well-wishers have gathered at the hospital. Security beefed up in and around the area. Slogans like "Long Live Kalaignar Karunanidhi" rent the air.

Earlier in the day, Kauvery hospital in Chennai released a medical bulletin stating that Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi's health had deteriorated and a team of medical experts were treating him for fever due to urinary tract infection and had kept him under observation for 24 hours.

"There has been a decline in the health of DMK president M Karunanidhi's due to age-related ailments. He is being treated for fever due to urinary tract infection. He is being given hospital level treatment at home," a medical bulletin released by the Kauvery Hospital said.

Given his condition, the team of doctors attending to him has recommended the restriction on visitors.

DMK working president and Karunanidhi's son, M K Stalin, told that the veteran leader is recovering steadily as his fever is coming down. News agency ANI quoted him as saying "he (M Karunanidhi) is recovering steadily as his fever is coming down." Stalin was made the party's working president in 2016 after Karunanidhi retreated from the mainstream politics.

He tweeted: "I am thankful to Rahul Gandhi, SitaramYechury & D Raja for calling to inquire about Thalaivar Kalaignar's health. The concern and wishes from everyone will surely aid @kalaignar89's recovery and we hope he will be able to meet everyone soon."

On behalf of the DMK, I thank @rashtrapatibhvn & @PMOIndia for their enquiries about @kalaignar89's health. I am extremely grateful for their offers of help. Thalaivar is getting the best medical care and treatment. We hope he will recover soon and thank everyone in his own words  M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) July 27, 2018

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he spoke with Karunanidhi's son M.K. Stalin, who is the Leader of Opposition, and daughter Kanimozhi and enquired about the veteran leader's health. "I pray for his quick recovery and good health," wrote Modi on Twitter and added that he has offered any assistance required.

Also, President Ram Nath Kovind spoke to Karunanidhi's family members, President's office tweeted, "Spoke to Thiru Karunanidhi's family members on the phone and inquired about his health. Wishing the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, a veteran of our public life, a quick recovery."

Spoke to Thiru Karunanidhis family members on the phone and inquired about his health. Wishing the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, a veteran of our public life, a quick recovery #PresidentKovind  President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) July 27, 2018

Arpudhamaal, the mother of Perarivaalan who is accused in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, visited Gopalapuram to meet Karunanidhi.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took to Twitter to wish for Karunanidhi's speedy recovery.

MK Stalin took to Twitter to thank PM Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi for enquiring about Karunanidhi's health.

Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot took to Twitter to wish Karunanidhi a speedy recovery.

Union Minister Pon Radhakrishnan said that meeting MK Stalin & Kanimozhi, he was apprised that Karunanidhi's health is improving and that PM Modi spoke to them inquiring about his health. Karunanidhi's house has been flooded with party workers today after Kauvery Hospital stated a "slight decline" in his health Thursday night.

Stalin's estranged brother and former union minister M K Alagiri arrived at the residence along with his son Durai Dayanidhi.

Tamil Nadu BJP president Tamilisai Soundararajan said, "Kalaignar should get back to active life and that is my prayer. He presided over my marriage..."

Among other visitors were, MDMK chief Vaiko, Tamil Nadu BJP chief Tamilisai Soundararajan, CPI leader D Pandian and Tamizhaga Vazhvurimai Katchi leader Velmurugan who enquired about his health from family members and Stalin.

"Such fever after a tracheostomy procedure is usual. Stalin told me that he is fine. I am confident that he will bounce back with the same magnetic voice," Vaiko told reporters.

Karunanidhi completed 50 years as party chief today and the DMK had planned to celebrate it by distributing sweets and welfare assistance.
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Karunanidhi passes away: All you need to know about this doyen of Tamil Nadu politics

India

oi-Vikas

By Vikas

Chennai, Aug 7: Five times Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and 12 times MLA M Karunanidhi passed away at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital today. He was 94 years old.

DMK patriarch Karunanidhi was admitted to the Kauvery Hospital on July 28 following a dip in his blood pressure. He was kept under constant observation in the ICU ever since. On July 29, his vitals seemed to fluctuated for sometime after which the hospital issued a bulletin saying that his condition had stabilised.

On August 6, the bulletin issued by the Kauvery Hospital said that the DMK chief's condition had declined. August 7th's medical bulletin said that his condition was 'extremely critical' and 'unstable. At 6.10 pm on August 7, Karunanidhi breathed has last.

Let's take a look at the profile of M Karunandihi (known as Kalaignar by his supporters) who has never lost in any election contest, in a political career spanning more than 60 years:

Date and Place of Birth:

Born on June 3, 1924 in Thirukuvalai, Tiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu

Brief family history:

Karunanidhi married thrice. His first wife was Padmavathy Ammal, with whom he had a son M K Muthu, but both of them died at young age.

Then, he got married to Dayalu Ammal, with whom he has four children-- M K Alagiri, M K Stalin, M K Tamilarasu and Selvi. His third wife was Rajathiammal, with whom he had a daughter-- Kanimozhi.

Political career:

Karunanidhi began his political career at the age of just 14 and participated in anti-Hindi movements.

He founded the first student wing of the Dravidan Movement-- Tamil Nadu Tamil Manavar Mandram and also started a newspaper-- Murasoli on Aug 10, 1942.

In 1957, he was first elected to the Tamil Nadu assembly from the Kulithalai assembly of Thiruchirapalli district, one among the first 15 MLAs elected to the then Madras Legislative Assembly on a DMK ticket.

Positions that 'Kalaignar' held:

1961- DMK treasurer

1962- Deputy leader of opposition in the state assembly

1967- Minister for public works

Feb 1969 to Jan 1971- Became chief minister of Tamil Nadu

March 1971 to Jan 1976- Tamil Nadu CM for 2nd time

Jan 1989 to Jan 1991- Tamil Nadu CM for 3rd time

May 1996 to May 2001- Tamil Nadu CM for 4th time

May 2006 to May 2011- Tamil Nadu CM for 5th time

He was elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly 12 times.

Other interesting facts about him

Karunanidhi made his presence felt in Tamil cinema as a playwright and screenwriter. He actively pursued his passion for screenwriting and remained close to it despite being active in politics.

Karunanidhi's remarkable literary skills and success as a screenwriter and subsequent popularity played a big role in his rise in the DMK and his overall stature.

The DMK chief's literary pursuit began with a handwritten magazine "Manavanesan" while he was still in school at Tiruvarur. This flowered into a successful career in screenwriting for Tamil films and stage plays.

As an author, he penned six volumes of his autobiography, Nenjukku Neethi, in Tamil language.

He contributed a lot to Tamil Literature by writing poems, letters, screenplays, novels, biographies, historical novels, stage-plays, dialogues and movie songs.

He was awarded two honorary degrees- in 1971 by Annamalai University and in 2006 by Madurai Kamaraj University.

He was a non vegetarian turned vegetarian. He had claimed that the secret of his energy and success lies in yoga and that he was an atheist.

Controversies:

In 2007, his remarks over Lord Rama in conection with Ramsetu bridge stormed a huge political controversy when he allegedly said, "Some say there was a person over 1.7 million years ago. His name was Rama. Do not touch the bridge (Ramar Sethu) constructed by him. Who is this Rama? From which engineering college did he graduate? Is there any proof for this?"

In April 2009, Karunanidi landed in a controversy when he said that he did not view Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam chief Velupillai Prabhakaran as a terrorist.

A day after, he said that he cannot forget that LTTE was behind the former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi's assassination.

And the rest is history...
M Karunanidhi was kept under house arrest for 2 years, TN govt to probe

Karunanidhi's 98th birth anniversary: BSY says he played important role in creating harmony between two states

Karunanidhi: The script writer who wrote Tamil Nadu's destiny

India

oi-PTI

Chennai, Aug 7: As a script writer he would have lived a life of obscurity in the shadows of film stars who enjoy cult status in Tamil Nadu.

But sharp-tongued, quick-witted M Karunanidhi had other plans. He outshone many a celebrity, as he presided over the destiny of the Dravidian state along with his tinsel town co-travellers and arch rivals in politics--M G Ramachandran and his protegee J Jayalalithaa-- for decades.

That art and politics blended seamlessly in Karunanidhi was manifest from the sobriquets of 'Thalaivar' (The Leader) and 'Kalaignar' (The Artist) he earned from ardent followers.

A masterful practitioner of modern-day politics, he wielded considerable influence beyond his own state, in the corridors of power in New Delhi, for a long time, sewing up alliances with both the Congress and the BJP, often drawing criticism from his rivals, who called him an opportunist.

Muthuvel Karunanidhi, who became the chief minister five times, cut his teeth in politics as a 14-year-old when he participated in the anti-Hindi agitation in 1938 at his native Tiruvarur.

Hugely influenced by the rationalist and egalitarian ideology of E V Ramasamy 'Periyar' and DMK founder and the state's first chief minister C N Annadurai, Karunanidhi became one of the most enduring mascots of the Dravidian Movement, which aimed at seeking equal rights for the depressed sections and women, and was against Brahminism.

Elected to the Legislative Assembly 13 times, Karunanidhi, a political artiste, outmanoeuvred V R Nedunchezhian to become the chief minister for the first time following the death of Annadurai in February 1969.

M G Ramachandran, his junior and one of the most charismatic actors of his time, supported Karunanidhi in his endeavour to edge past Nedunchezhian, who was the number two in the Annadurai cabinet.

Years later, the two were to part ways, with MGR, as Ramachandran was popularly called, forming the AIADMK, the party which was to become a perennial thorn in Karunanidhi's side.

Karunanidhi was a legislator for six decades since 1957, when he won for the first time from Kulithalai constituency, till 2016, when he emerged victorious from Tiruvarur as a 92-year-old, barring the period between 1986 and 1989.

In 1984, he was elected to the Legislative Council, which was abolished by the MGR government in 1986. He had resigned as MLA in 1983 over the Srilankan Tamils issue.

After assuming the reins of the government, Karunanidhi became the DMK chief in July 1969, a post that he held till death.

He again became the chief minister in 1971, 1989, 1996 and 2006. When he lost power to friend-turned-foe MGR's protegee Jayalalithaa in 2011, he famously quipped "people have given me some rest".

Addressed as Mu Ka, Tamil abbreviation of his name, by his peers, Karunanidhi's letters to DMK cadres in party mouthpiece Murasoli and his autobiography-cum-commentary on contemporary politics Nenjukku Needhi, are the favourite reading material for his supporters.

Karunanidhi's famous line "En uyirinum melana kazhaga udanpirappugaley (my dear brothers in party who are are above my life)," in his unmistakable baritone, used to send DMK workers into raptures.

Alongside Annadurai, who also had film and theatre background, Karunanidhi used the medium for furthering his political ideology.

Incidentally, the screenplay and dialogue for MGR's debut movie as hero 'Rajakumari' was written by him. He also wrote the dialogues for 'Parasakthi', the debut film of another tinsel town icon Sivaji Ganesan. The movie propagated the socialist and rationalist ideals of the Dravidian Movement.

While MGR rose to become one of the most popular public figures in Tamil Nadu's history, Ganesan dabbled in politics but faded from the scene quickly.

Karunanidhi penned screenplays and dialogues for over 50 movies. He also wrote the stories of some of them like Marudanattu Ilavarasi (1950) Mandiri Kumari (1950), Tirumbipar (1953), Arasilangkumari (1961).

A big political jolt for Karunanidhi came when MGR rebelled against him in 1972, accusing him of corruption and demanding details of the party's finances. MGR was expelled from the party the same year, and he floated the AIADMK, an event that marked the advent of bipolar politics in Tamil Nadu.

MGR led AIADMK to victory in the party's debut Assembly polls in 1977, and in 1980 and 1985. He was the chief minister till his death in 1987, forcing Karunanidhi to cool his heels in the opposition as long as he helmed the state.

Karunanidhi was back in power in 1989, only to lose to J Jayalalithaa, MGR's protegee, in 1991. He led DMK to victory in 1996, but AIADMK under Jayalalithaa trumped his party once again in 2001.

The Thalaivar struck back, wresting power from her in 2006, but the DMK lost successive Assembly polls in 2011 and 2015 to the AIADMK under a charismatic Jayalalithaa.

Proving true the adage that there are no permanent friends or foes in politics, Karunanidhi, who denounced the Emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi in 1975, formed alliances with the Congress several times, and the UPA government had several ministers from the DMK. The DMK was also a constituent of the BJP-led NDA and had ministers in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee cabinet.

The DMK had walked out of the UPA 2 in 2013 over its "soft stand" on the atrocities on Sri Lankan Tamils in the United Nations.

The Dravidian party wanted a strongly-worded resolution to be passed at the United Nations Human Rights Council, with inclusion of expressions like "genocide" and "war crimes", while seeking an international probe against Sri Lanka over persecution of Tamils in that country.

The UPA government, however, survived with the outside support of the Samajwadi Party and Mayawati's BSP.

Karunanidhi suffered a personal jolt when his MP daughter Kanimozhi got embroiled in the 2G spectrum scam along with union minister and DMK leader A Raja.

In 1980, when he joined hands with the Congress, he exuded warmth for Indira Gandhi with his remark, "Nehruvin Magale Varuga, Nilayana atchi tharuga (welcome, the daughter of Nehru, give us good governance)."

The comment encapsulated the intrinsic resilience of the master political craftsman who saw opportunity in every adversity.

PTI

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 20:10 [IST]
Like Jayalalithaa, Karunanidhi deserves to be given space on Marina Beach, says Rahul Gandhi

India

pti-PTI

New Delhi, Aug 7: Amid a controversy over AIADMK government's rejection of DMK's demand for giving space for M Karunanidhi's burial at the Marina Beach in Chennai, Congress President Rahul Gandhi said the DMK patriarch deserves a space there like former chief minister J Jayalalithaa.

Gandhi said he was sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be "magnanimous" in this time of grief. "Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief," Gandhi said on Twitter.

Gandhi's remarks came after a controversy erupted tonight following the Tamil Nadu government's rejection of the opposition DMK's demand for allotting space on the Marina beach for the burial of Karunanidhi. The AIADMK offered space near the memorials of former chief ministers C Rajagopalachari and K Kamraj.

DMK working president M K Stalin, recalling the long public life of Karunanidhi, had written to Chief Minister K Palaniswami seeking space inside the mausoleum complex of the departed leader's mentor C N Annadurai at the Marina. Stalin had also met the chief minister hours before his father's death.

A government statement said it was "unable to allot space at Marina beach owing to several pending cases in the Madras High Court and legal complications". Karunanidhi died in Chennai today after waging a grim battle for life for 11 days.

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Likha jo kath tujhe: Siddaramaiah dashes off another letter to HDK

India

oi-Madhuri

Bengaluru, Aug 7: Continuing with his letter writing spree, former chief minister Siddaramaiah has shot off another missive to chief minister HD Kumaraswamy, asking him to reconsider shifting the film city from Mysuru to Ramanagara.

Siddaramaiah, who is the chairman of the Congress-JD(S) coalition coordination committee, has so far written four letters to Kumaraswamy on a host of issues, including the one to reconsider the budget announcement to increase fuel prices.

In the letter, he asked the chief minister to reconsider the budget announcement to shift the film city to Ramanagara, Kumaraswamy's assembly segment, and take steps to set it up in Mysuru, Siddaramaiah's home district.

Pointing out that it has been the dream and demand ofthe Kannada film industry for a film city to be set up in Mysuru, the CLP leader described the 'palace city' as the most sought after destination by film producers not only from Kannada, but also from the Hindi, Tamil and Telugu film industries.

Since 1945, film shooting had been taking place in Mysuru, he noted as he recalled contributions of studios like 'Navajyoti' and 'Premier', which produced talented actors and technicians.

"Kannada thespian late Dr Rajkumar had dreamed about the film city in Mysuru, realising which the previous Congress government decided to set up a film city in the city and approved hundred acres of land for this purpose.

"An official announcement was also made in the budget," Siddaramaiah said in his letter dated July 31.

"But you have announced in the budget to shift the film city to Ramanagara. Considering all these factors, I request you to reconsider this decision and take necessary steps to set up the film city in Mysuru," he added.

Siddaramaiah's letters are seen as an attempt by him to prove his hold over the coalition government.

In what is described as "letter politics",JD(S) chief HD Deve Gowda used to write letters to the then Congress-JD(S) coalition government headed by Congress' Dharm Singh with Siddaramaiah as deputy chief minister.

Siddaramaiah's letter to the chief minister has come despite the reported suggestion of newly appointed Pradesh Congress chief Dinesh Gundu Rao to him to talk about the issues in coordination committee meetings, rather than writing letters.

Meanwhile, not wishing to comment, water resources minister DK Shivakumar said, "what had to be passed in the budget has been passed, it is out of my department to comment."

When it was pointed out he was Ramanagara district in-charge minister, he said "I'm minister for the entire state ... I don't want to comment or talk about it."
Hathras gangrape case: Cremation was done in family's presence, says UP Police

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Mayawati hopes SC/ST Amendment Bill will be passed in Rajya Sabha

India

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

New Delhi, Aug 7: Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati thanked ST/SC people and BSP supporters for the implementation of the Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018 in Lok Sabha.

Speaking to reporters, Mayawati said, " We expect that the Schedule Caste and Schedule Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018, that has been passed in Lok Sabha, will also be passed in Rajya Sabha. Although the Bill was implemented late our party welcomes it."

Mayawati thanked Dalit groups for successfully pressurising the Centre to retain the earlier provisions of the Bill.

"Our party gives credit of implementation of this Bill to ST/SC people of the country which includes BSP supporters too, who successfully conducted Bharat Bandh on April 2 and pressurised the Centre & BJP govt to retain the earlier provisions of the Bill," said Mayawati.

On April 2, 2018 dalit organisations in North India called for a Bharat Bandh in order to protest Supreme Court's dilution of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Five states witnessed violence as protesters tried to enforce the bandh. Train services were hit in parts of Bihar, Odisha, Punjab and Rajasthan.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 11:49 [IST]
O P Sharma asked to appear before House Privileges Committee

India

oi-Vinod

By Vinod

New Delhi, Aug 8: The House Privileges Committee of Delhi Assembly has summoned Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Om Prakash Sharma to appear before it for calling MLA Amanatullah Khan as a terrorist. The committee summoned him to appear before it at 12 in the noon. Privilege Committee is a quasi judicial authority.

Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel had referred the matter to the House Privilege Committee on August 6. Goel also expunged the word used by Sharma from House proceedings.

Sources said that the committee has the authority to take action against anyone. The strength of Delhi Assembly is lopsided with just four member of the BJP in the Assembly. The controversy was courted on August 6 when BJP MLA called Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Amanatullah Khan a terrorist in Delhi Assembly. "Stop talking like a terrorist," Sharma told Khan, while speaking in the Assembly.

Sharma was speaking in the Assembly about water shortage in his constituency. He had criticised government officers during his speech. The BJP MLA reportedly referred AAP MLAs as 'gundas' and claimed that Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal is supportive of terrorists.

Deputy chief minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia demanded apology from him. He claimed that the BJP is trying to dub Muslims as terrorists. "This is not the question of an MLA. How can he use such words in the House? It shows the mentality the BJP. Strict action should be taken against him," Sisodia asserted.
Prashant Kishor in viral video: With or without Modi, BJP will be centre of Indian polity for decades

PM to address two rallies every month in the election bound Rajasthan

India

oi-Vinod

By Vinod

New Delhi, Aug 07: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address two rallies every month in Rajasthan where elections are expected anytime around November 2018. Besides Rajasthan three more states namely Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram too will have their Assembly elections around the same time but Rajasthan is very crucial for the BJP.

All these states are gripping into the election mode with chief ministers settling in their respective chariots. Rajasthan where the party was facing tough challenge from the Congress, the PM will start addressing rallies there soon. However, the PM had already addressed one at Amrood ka Bagh (guava orchard) in Jaipur but he will have some more.

Party president Amit Shah will do rally in every sambhag (region). Rajasthan has altogether seven regions for the administrative convenience. The party president will take a call as how many rally he will address. The BJP president had joined Rajasthan chief minister for her launch of rath yatra.

Sources in the BJP said that Rajasthan elections are a big challenge for the BJP leadership as there are lots of fault line along with the anti-incumbency of both the state government and the Centre. The party has herculean task of managing different cast groups in the state with them showing their resentment quite offen. Farmers too are not happy with the government.

However, the chief minister has been able to send a message across the party workers by getting state president of her choice that she is a real fighter. The Central BJP leadership is planning some more senior RSS workers to bring in to Rajasthan to assist the state BJP.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 10:36 [IST]
RS Deputy Chairman election: NCP's Vandana Chavan to be Opposition's candidate

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

New Delhi, Aug 7: The opposition has reportedly picked Vandana Chavan from Sharad Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) as the candidate for the post of Rajya Sabha Deputy Speaker.

Chavan is a second-time Rajya Sabha MP from Maharashtra. She is also been a member of the state legislative council.

After a second round of meeting today, the Opposition concluded that Chavan would be able to get the support of all opposition parties and even a few of NDA allies.

"Though we would again meet but it's almost finalised that Chavan of NCP would be the Opposition candidate," a senior opposition party leader said.

Most opposition parties raised no objection on Chavan's name during the meeting but they have left room for any possible last-minute change.

Chavan, whose name was proposed by Bahujan Samaj Party leader Satish Chandra Mishra and seconded by TMC leader Derek O'Brien, received every opposition party's support, including the Congress.

However the Congress has not yet completely ruled out the possibility of having its own candidate. It would be about winnability, the Congress said.

Harivansh Narayan Singh is the candidate from the ruling alliance. He belongs to Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal-United.

Going by the existing situation, the NDA does not have the numbers on its side. It has the support of 90 MPs in the Upper House with parties such as the BPF, JD(U), NPF, RPI, SAD and SDF backing it.

The NDA would also look for the support of three out of the four nominated members. Going by these numbers, the NDA is still short of around 32 votes. To win the election in the 245 member house, a candidate would require the support of 123 members.

The opposition on the other hand has the support of 112 MPs which includes the Congress, AAP, TMC, BSP, CPI (M), DMK, IUML, JD(S), Kerala Congress, NCP, RLD, PDP, SP, and TDP. With these numbers, the opposition is still short by 11 members.

The post of the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman has been lying vacant since June this year after the retirement of PJ Kurien, who was elected to the upper house on a Congress ticket from Kerala.
RS Deputy Chairman election: Don't have problem with JD (U) candidate, says SAD

India

oi-Vikas

By Vikas

New Delhi, Aug 7: Amid reports that the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) is miffed with the NDA over the choice of candidate for the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman election, the Punjab-based party on Tuesday said there is no 'disagreement' between them and the BJP.

Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu yesterday (August 6) announced in the House that the election will be held at 11 am on August 9.

In April, the NDA had reportedly considered backing SAD MP Naresh Gujral for the post of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman. But, on Monday, it emerged that the NDA's candidate would be JD (U)'s Harivansh.

After this, some quarters of the media said that a miffed SAD may abstain from the election. It was said that such a decision was taken at a meeting of SAD leaders at the residence of its President Sukhbir Badal.

SAD leader Prem Singh Chandumajra, however, told ANI, "There is nothing like this, we are not standing apart from NDA. Neither we requested our candidate nor BJP had any disagreement with us, these are all rumours."

[Also Read | RS Dy. Chairman poll: BJP ally SAD likely to abstain]

Another SAD leader Sukhdev S Dhindsa said they have no issues with the JD (U) candidate.

"We don't have any problem with candidate as JDU is our friend but 1st they told our candidate Naresh Gujral to prepare. He was preparing and suddenly they nominated JDU's candidate without informing us," Dhindsa told ANI.

The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since June following the retirement of P J Kurien, who was elected to the Upper House of Parliament on a Congress ticket from Kerala. While the BJP-led NDA did not make any formal announcement, sources said Harivansh, a first-time parliamentarian, is likely to be their choice for the post.
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RS Dy. Chairman poll: Nitish reaches out to TRS

India

oi-Madhuri

Hyderabad, Aug 7: JD(U) president Nitish Kumar today reached out to Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao, requesting the support of TRS for his party lawmaker and NDA candidate Harivansh Narayan Singh in the election to the post of Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha.

The Bihar chief minister rang up the Telangana Rashtra Samithi president this morning and made the request, according to Rao's office.

Rao told him he would discuss the issue with his party colleagues and take a final decision, it said.

Kumar's call comes as the NDA and the Opposition appeared to be heading for a showdown in the election. The Opposition has given a clear indication that it will contest the August 9 election.

In the upper house, the BJP-led ruling alliance lacks a majority.

According to Opposition sources, Tiruchi Siva of DMK, Vandana Chavan of NCP and nominated member K T S Tulsi are front-runners for the post.

The support of regional parties such as the AIADMK, BJD, TRS and YSR Congress are crucial in the poll.

The post of the deputy chairman has been lying vacant since June this year, following the retirement of P J Kurien, who had been elected to the upper house of Parliament on a Congress ticket from Kerala.

The current strength of Rajya Sabha is 244 and support of 123 members would be needed for a win in the full house.

The BJP is the largest party in the house with 73 members. Its allies JD(U), Shiv Sena, Akali Dal have six, three and three members, respectively.

Besides the nominated and independent members affiliated to it, the BJP is banking on the support of 13, nine, six and two members of the AIADMK, BJD, TRS, YSR Congress respectively, its floor managers said.

If all four parties support the NDA candidate, then the numbers add up to 126.

However, if parties like BJD or TRS abstain from voting, then things will become more precarious for the ruling alliance.

Both these parties had abstained during a vote on the recent motion of no-confidence against the government in the Lok Sabha while the AIADMK had voted with the treasury benches.

The BJP is hoping to get support of four of the six independent members and three of the four nominated members.

The Congress has 50 members.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 13:39 [IST]
SC notice to former Twitter India MD Manish Maheshwari in Ghaziabad assault case

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SC raps Bihar government over Muzaffarpur shelter home rape

India

oi-Deepika

By Deepika

New Delhi, Aug 7: The Supreme Court on Tuesday pulled up the Bihar government over the Muzaffarpur shelter home rape case, asking "who is giving money to the shelter home in the state?"

"Girls are raped left, right and centre," said the court, while hearing the case involving the Muzaffarpur shelter home in which over 30 girls were raped.

The SC also asked why the credential of the institution running running it weren't checked before it was given state funds.

"Who is giving money to the shelter home in the state?" the Supreme Court asked.

The issue of sexual exploitation was first highlighted in a social audit report submitted by Tata Institute of Social Science, Mumbai, to the state's Social Welfare Department in April.

An FIR was lodged on May 31 against 11 persons, including Brajesh Thakur, the owner of the NGO 'Seva Sankalp Evam Vikas Samiti' which ran the shelter home for destitute girls funded by the government.

Ten out of the 11 accused, including Thakur, were arrested on June 3.

The government on July 26 recommended a CBI inquiry into the matter.
TMC targets Amit Shah by not allowing him to speak in RS on MSP

India

oi-Vinod

By Vinod

New Delhi, Aug 7: Trinamool Congress (TMC) has targeted Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah for the aggressive posturing in support of National Register for Citizenship (NRC). The party has targeted Shah during a debate in the house on minimum support price (MSP) leading to the adjournment of the Upper House.

Amit Shah was speaking on the issue of MSP as allowed by the Chairman. Several other leaders from many other political parties were supposed to speak on the issue however the Congress came out in support the TMC that their demands should also be met.

The chairman allowed debate on MSP on August 7, 2018 on the notice of Shah while debate on the issue of Silchar incidence was allowed for August 8. Shah even started his speech and barely 5-6 minets had gone by when uproar was started by the TMC MPs. When the Chair started taking name and said that MPS will be suspended, the Congress too joined the TMC and the house was adjourned initially for around 10 minets and later 20 minets and debate could not be completed.

From the BJP, leaders like Bhupendra Yadav, Anil Jain and Amar Shanker Sable were to participate in the debate. From opposition Prasanna Acharya, Bhaskar Rao Nekkanti and Pratab Keshri Deb from Biju Janata Dal, Manoj Jha of Rashtriya Janata Dal and V Vijay Sai Reddy of YSR Congress were the leaders to participate in the debate. The house was adjourned for the second time amid chaos.

When minister of state for parliamentary affairs intervened that what should be done, the Congress leader in the Rajya Sabha Anand Sharma supported the cause of TMC while other leaders like RJD appeared non-committal. The BJP leaders were of the view that TMC wants to target the BJP president by such gimmicks but it will come to them as the party president was taking up the issue of farmers. Rajya Sabha chairman had already given them time to debate they wanted it today.

However, the Congress leaders found the issue of TMC equally important so the TMC members in the Rajya Sabha did not allow Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah to speak leading to adjournment of the house.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 18:43 [IST]
'We are sending Bangladeshis back', says Karnataka Deputy CM

India

oi-Vikas

By Vikas

Bengaluru, Aug 7: Reiterating that illegal immigrants would be deported from Bengaluru, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara on Tuesday said that Bangladeshis residing in the city have been indetified and would be sent back.

Even last week, Parameshwara had said that strict action would be taken against illegal immigrants in the state. Parameshwara said that they have undertaken a drive to identify such persons and action would follow.

"We have identified. There are Bangladeshis in Bangalore and we are sending them back, We have already identified more than 100 African nationals whose visa had expired, we are deporting them too. We will not let anyone stay in Bangalore without valid papers," ANI quoted Parameshwara as saying on Tuesday (August 7).

The entire debate over the illegal immigrants took a political turn after the final draft of the NRC list for Assam was published. Around 40 lakh people failed to make it to the NRC list published.

Back in 2015, H D Kumaraswamy (now CM) had claimed that there are 40,000 illegal immigrants from Bangladesh in Karnataka. In a letter that he wrote in the month of April that year, he had told the then Home Minister, K J George that several illegal Bangladeshi immigrants had taken cup residence in almost all parts of the state.

To a question on what action was being taken against the Bangladeshis, the Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister last week said that the state would surely act against them in case they are found to be living illegally in India.
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Justice Joseph seniority, AG meets CJI says time-tested principle followed

India

oi-Madhuri

New Delhi, Aug 7: Amid a controversy over lowering of Justice K M Joseph's seniority while appointing him to the Supreme Court, the government defended the move, saying it went purely by the "time tested" principle of high court seniority list.

Meanwhile, Attorney General K K Venugopal is also understood to have met with the Chief Justice of India, Dipak Misra and explained the legal precedents.

Top sources in the government said here that Justice Joseph is two and a half years junior to justices lndira Banerjee and Vineet Saran in all-India seniority of high court judges.

But some senior judges are upset as they feel that since Justice Joseph's name was in-principle reiterated before the recommendation for justices Banerjee and Saran was made, he should have been their senior in the top court.

But government sources said the in-principle reiteration came to the government in July along with two other names.

They pointed out that the executive "went purely by the time tested principle of the high court seniority list" in placing Justice Joseph below justices Banerjee and Saran.

Quoting the resolution of the Supreme Court collegium recommending their elevation to the top court, they said Justice Banerjee was appointed as a high court (HC) judge on February 5, 2002, while

Justice Saran was appointed as a HC judge on February 14, 2002. Justice Joseph was appointed as a high court judge on October 14, 2004.

"In the all-lndia seniority of high court judges, Justice Baneriee is at number 4 while Justice Saran is at number 5. Justice Joseph is at the 39th place," a source said.

It was pointed out that none of the three judges will become the Chief Justice of India (CJI) as there are other SC judges who have been elevated to the apex court earlier and they will also retire later.

They said while Justice Joseph will retire on June 16, 2023, Justice D Y Chandrachud, who is senior to all the three judges, will continue till November 2024.

The sources recalled that CJI Dipak Misra had became a high court judge on January 17, 1996, while Justice J Chelameswar became a high court judge on June 23, 1997.

Justice Chelameswar became the chief justice of a high court on May 3, 2007, while Justice Misra became chief justice of a HC on December 23, 2009.

They said the appointment as chief justice of a high court does not alter the seniority of HC judges in the all-India seniority register. Therefore, Justice Misra took oath as a Supreme Court judge before Justice Chelameswar on the same day and remained senior to him based on the seniority according to seniority list of HC judges.

Justice Joseph's elevation to the SC put an end to a protracted stand-off between the government and the judiciary as his file was once returned for reconsideration.

The number of judges in the top court after the fresh appointments has gone up to 25. There are still six vacancies.
North Korea to recieve humanitarian aid despite tough sanctions

International

oi-PTI

United Nations, Aug 7: In order to help almost 10 million undernourished people in North Korea, the UN Security Council on Tuesday (Aug 7) approved US-drafted measures to supply humanitarian aid to the isolated country. According to the UN officials, North Korea saw a drastic drop in food production last year.

The United States last month proposed new guidelines to allow aid groups and UN agencies to quickly obtain exemptions from the council committee that oversees implementation of sanctions. After weeks of negotiations, the proposal was approved today. UN resolutions specify that sanctions should not affect humanitarian aid, but relief organisations argue that strict trade and banking measures are creating bureaucratic obstacles and slowing down the flow of vital supplies.

Dutch Deputy UN Ambassador Lise Gregoire-van Haaren, whose country chairs the sanctions committee, said the guidelines will hopefully "provide clarity on delivering humanitarian aid to the North Korean people without violating sanctions." "Our ultimate goal is the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and the sanctions are very important to that end," she said.

A notice will be sent to the UN's 193 member-states by the committee "to provide a clear explanation" of the procedure for exemptions which will "improve the delivery of humanitarian assistance" to North Korea, a committee document said.

PTI

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 10:44 [IST]
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Shehbaz Sharif nominated as PML-Ns Pak PM candidate

International

oi-Madhuri

Lahore, Aug 7: The embattled Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) unanimously nominated Shehbaz Sharif as its prime ministerial candidate, party spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said.

The nomination of the 66-year-old former Punjab chief minister was approved soon after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party named its top leader Imran Khan to be the prime ministerial candidate of the single largest party in the National Assembly.

The PTI has claimed that it has the support of 174 members, including independents, in the National Assembly after the July 25 general elections and can form the next federal government.

Shehbaz is the younger brother of jailed former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who was sentenced to 10 years in jail last month in a corruption case.

Shehbaz's nomination was approved at a meeting of senior party leaders at its Central Secretariat here to decide its nominee for the next prime minister, PML-N spokesperson Aurangzeb was quoted as saying by Geo News.

During the meeting chaired by PML-N president Shehbaz, leaders deliberated upon strategy to form government in the centre and Punjab, she said.

Speaking to media after the meeting, Aurangzeb said the PML-N would continue to struggle together with other political parties, adding that they had directed concerned individuals to prepare 'white papers' on the polls in the country.

The PML-N has alleged that last month's polls were rigged in favour of the Khan's PTI.

The PML-N spokesperson said that a protest would be staged in Islamabad on August 8 and ticket-holders from all political parties would participate in it.

Meanwhile, the spokesman for PML-N Punjab chapter Malik Mohammad Ahmed said his party would play the role of a strong opposition in Punjab's provincial legislature.

He said that only Hamza Shehbaz, son of Shehbaz could be the Opposition leader or the chief minister of the key province.

Earlier this month, party leader Rana Sanaullah said PML-N needs only 18 MPA-elects to form the government in Punjab the province that PML-N has ruled for 10 consecutive years.

"We have won 130 seats and need an additional 18 MPA-elects. With the Pakistan Peoples Party's six elected MPAs and 13 independents we will have the numbers to form the government," Sanaullah had claimed.

PML-N's rival political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), also claims having enough members to form government in Punjab.

PTI leader Jahangir Tareen has claimed that the party has the support of 18 independents.

The party also claims that with these independents, its own MPA-elects and seven from the PML-Q, its strength in the 371-member Punjab Assembly stands at 148 members.

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Story first published: Tuesday, August 7, 2018, 7:02 [IST]
Kochi: 3 killed, 12 injured after fishing boat collides with ship

Kochi

oi-Chennabasaveshwar

By Chennabasaveshwar

Kochi, Aug 7: Three people were killed and 12 others injured after a fishing boat rammed into a ship in the deep sea in Kochi on Tuesday. The fishing boat had set to the sea from a place called Munambam.

Superintendent of Police, said, "Coast Guard, Navy vessels and helicopters are on the lookout. They've launched a search, 2 bodies recovered. We have to search for survivors. We're yet to identify the 9 missing people."

Fifteen people are believed to be in the local fishing boat. Navy and coast guard have been deployed for the search operation.

Six people are been brought back to the shore by the fishermen who were present at the spot where the accident took place at 3 am in the deep sea.

Kerala Fisheries minister J Mercy Kutty Amma said an investigation is on to find the whereabouts of the ship and are also coordinating with the coast guard and navy team to rescue those who are missing.

For More Kochi News, Click Here
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Gang of vehicle lifters busted, two held

Lucknow

oi-Madhuri

Mathura, Aug 7: With the arrest of two persons from Shergarh area here, police claimed to have busted an inter-state gang of vehicle-lifters and recovered seven stolen bikes and a car from their possession.

The police arrested the duo from from Agaryala road in Shergarh area yesterday evening in a joint operation with SWAT team, acting on a tip-off, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Babloo Kumar said.

The accused have confessed of stealing two-wheelers from Mathura and Faridabad and then disposing them off at cheaper rates, he said.

The SSP said that seven bikes, a car, a country made pistol and live cartridges were recovered from their possession.

However, one of their accomplice managed to escape and hunt is on to nab him, he added.

For more Lucknow news, Click here
How Sweety and Muskan rob men on the pretext of seeking help

New Delhi

oi-Madhuri

New Delhi, Aug 7: Two women were arrested near the Moolchand Metro Station here for allegedly robbing men on the pretext of seeking help or by alluring them, police said.

The accused identified as Sweety (24) and Muskan (25) used to allure people and rob them of their cash and belongings.

On August 4, around 9:30 pm, when the police were patrolling near the metro station, they noticed a person chasing two women.

The police immediately jumped into action and after a brief chase, they managed to intercept them, said Chinmoy Biswal, Deputy Commissioner of Police (southeast).

The victim told police that the two women had slapped him and robbed him of his purse. Subsequently, both the accused women were arrested and the victim's purse was recovered from their possession, Biswal said.

During investigation, the complainant told police that while he was going home on his motorcycle, at around 9:30 pm when he reached near the metro station, he was signalled by two women who were shouting Help! Help!.

When he stopped his bike, one of the women named Muskan slapped him. He fell down from the motorcycle and in the meantime Sweety took out his purse and both ran away towards Ring Road, Lajpat Nagar, the DCP said.

During interrogation, the accused women revealed that they were illiterate.

Muskan told police that she is a widow while Sweety said she was living separately from her husband and that her divorce proceedings were pending, the DCP said.

In order to earn their livelihood, they both started robbing men during the night hours. They would sometimes lure men or seek their help. When the victim offered to help, her associate would come from behind and together they would rob men, he said.

The accused women confessed to police that at times, they used to threaten men that if they tried to report the matter to police, then they will file false complaint against him, the officer said.

The accused told police that in the past two-three months, they have robbed around five-six men and in apprehension of social stigma, victims might have not reported the matter to the police, he said.

In another incident, a 67-year-old woman was arrested for allegedly stealing Rs 75,000 in Chanakyapuri, the police said.

A bridal exhibition was underway at a five-star hotel there and the woman stole Rs 75,000 from an exhibitor's purse, they added.

The woman left from there and started counting money. She was spotted by a hotel security guard who was also informed about an exhibitor raising an alarm about the theft.

The police were informed and she was arrested.

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Prime Minister, Peter ONeill, has condemned the actions of individuals involved in violence near Murray Barracks and Morata settlement in Port Moresby over the weekend.Any dispute should be settled by relevant legal authorities, and under no circumstances should groups take the law into their own hands.We are no longer living in traditional societies, we are living in the modern era and this type of behaviour is not acceptable in any way.Further, this type of behaviour by members of the discipline services will not be tolerated, and those involved will be dealt with through their own codes of conduct and will also face the full force of civilian law.Together with NCDC and other relevant agencies, we will review the settlement policies of cities and towns with a view to better integrate settlers from different parts of Papua New Guinea so that no one group can dominate others.We have no other option but to learn to live together as Papua New Guineans and not regional or tribal groups.The world is changing, and so Papua New Guinea must also continue to change.The Prime Minister was speaking from the Business advantage PNG investment conference in Brisbane where he was encouraging investors to place their confidence in modern Papua New Guinea.The Prime Minister said it was disappointing to hear news of the unrest when the world is so interested in Papua New Guinea.
Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Peter ONeill says the country has an enduring relationship with Australian businesses and the Australian government worth more than US$3.8 billion (K12.3 billion) a year. Addressing the Business Advantage PNG Investment Conference in Brisbane Monday, ONeill said the relationship between Australia and PNG was one that was strengthening every year.In a statement, he said: Economic integration between our two countries continues to expand and mature.Even with the economic rise of our trading partners in the region, Australia remains our largest investor and largest trading partner.Two-way trade is now over US$3.8 billion each year.Our next largest trading partners, China and Japan, each account for over US$2 billion (K8 bil) in two-way trade each year.Trade and investment between PNG and Australia is based on many years of engagement, and similarities in our government-to-business approach. Business and government have to work together as partners if we are to achieve our economic objectives. For our part, the government is here to support the private sector to enhance investment and innovation, and to ensure sustainability.We have continued to reduce red tape, removed impediments to starting a new business, made it easier for more local inputs in several sectors to drive growth.Treasury (Department) is now forecasting positive GDP growth for the year. We continue to control our expenditure, and our debt levels are sustainable. Our country is living within our means. As an economy, we are continuing to restructure our debt mix to better balance between concessional borrowing and domestic bills that are typically expensive.SOURCE: THE NATIONAL/PACNEWS/ONE PNG
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 7)  The blogger dancing in the controversial federalism video with Communications Assistant Secretary Mocha Uson faces more backlash  a possible legal case.

The camp of Vice President Leni Robredo said they are considering filing a complaint against blogger Drew Olivar for his crude allegations against her.

"Our legal team is currently looking into the possibility of filing a criminal complaint. Do stay tuned," her spokesperson Barry Gutierrez tweeted on Monday.

He replied to netizens who called for action from their camp regarding the video posted by Olivar in 2017.

"Baka po pwede sampahan ng kasong slander para maturuan ng lesson. Letting him get away with it gives people the impression that our beloved VP is a pushover!" a netizen tweeted at Gutierrez.

In the expletive-laden video Gutierrez replied to, the blogger said Robredo did not go to South Africa in May 2017 for a women's conference. He also made several sexual allegations against her. He also cursed at Robredo's daughter Aika for studying in Harvard.

Olivar and Uson earned the ire of several lawmakers, public figures, and netizens for the viral video the Communications Assistant Secretary posted on August 2. In the video, Olivar was singing a jingle, playing with the word "federalism" using racy terms and gesturing towards female private parts  all to Uson's cheering.
B. G., Opalesque Geneva:

Northlander Commodity advisors is having an run with a YTD return of 24.80% through May. The 7.8% returns made in May came primarily from carbon emissions trading.

The $251m fund, launched in March 2012 with seed capital from a large U.S.-based institutional investor, has returned a total of 201% since inception, according to an email seen by Opalesque. It is a master-feeder structure with a Cayman offshore branch.

The commodity fund is focused in European power and gas and international coal. Its fundamental views are expressed through directional and relative value trading, using solely cleared futures, swaps and options on commodity related instruments, including FX.

Ulf Ek, 47, the founder and CIO of London-based Northlander Commodity Advisors LLP, manages the fund. Ek has over 18 years of experience in energy trading, after starting his career with Enron and moving on to Amaranth Advisors, Brevan Howard and Barclays. His firm now manages $578m.

A Connecticut-based partner at Northlander, Harry Arora, is currently vying for a Republican seat in Congress.

The Eurekahedge Commodity Hedge Fund Index is d......................

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The liberal, enlightened culture that claims the high ground in Western society is Science-based. We learn without ever being told that there is an objective material reality that you can kick, and that's all there is. No spirits, no mind-to-mind communication, no afterlife, nothing at all mysterious. Get real! It's atoms and electromagnetic forces all the way down.

If something happens that gives you a glimpse into another reality, then your brain has a glitch. That's OK, buddy. All of our brains have glitches. The key is just to get a grip, remember where reality is, return to the deep grounding of what we can all see and hear.

A big part of the cultural upheaval that we call The Sixties was the psychedelic experience. Were LSD and psilosybin a fast track into a world that had been denied by our drab, materialist culture? Or were they a form of temporary insanity, distorting the true picture of reality that was painted pretty consistently by our un-drugged senses?

I came of age in The Sixties, and opted out of the drug culture, bought into the Scientific world view in its narrowest sense. Only later in life have I come to acknowledge the mystical moments that occasionally flash forth from the humdrum background. I have followed the path of science, and it has led me quite outside the dogma that is the Scientific Worldview.

Michael Pollan, of all people, has a new book in which he describes research programs in which people's sanity has been enhanced by psychedelic drugs. Our government's War on Drugs conflated psychedelics with addiction; but Pollan tells stories of people who have escaped from tortured lives of addiction with the help of a few brief psychedelic experiences.

The nerds who live at ground zero of our materialist culture create the computer code that runs our communications, transportation, distribution, and (increasingly) decision-making. They work so many hours that they have no time to eat or socialize, and we imagine that they, more than any of us, are fully immersed in the materialist's reality. How strange to read that they take microdoses of LSD to keep them focused on their work, creative and productive.

From their lab at University of Toronto, Thomas Anderson and Norman Farb are collecting stories of people who take microdoses of psychedelic drugs, compiling statistics and questioning whether the reputation of "dangerous" is warranted. They are discovering benefits that far outweigh the risks.

The NIH database of clinical trials lists 233 ongoing studies of psychedelics. There's this one at John's Hopkinsand this one in Helsinki.

I don't have any experience with psychedelic drugs, but what I do know is that the narrow, materialistic world-view that has been passed off as "scientific" has imprisoned our minds and driven millions into despair or depression. Whole universes of human potential have been squeezed out of us. We'll find our liberation where we can, and for some, psychedelics provide an open door.

Rethinking Psychedelics at ScienceBlog.com
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From To The Point Analyses

The idea behind cultural genocide is relatively simple -- it is the systematic erasure of the culture of indigenous people subject to colonization. The endgame here is that the conquered land will no longer be popularly identified with the culture and traditions of those who were once native to it. Instead, their culture will be replaced by that of the colonizer. The most common way of doing this is to disperse or actually wipe out a good part of the indigenous population, with the resulting trauma causing their culture, at least in its native form, to disappear. However, sometimes the colonizers will appropriate elements of the native culture as their own. This is cultural genocide by theft as well as destruction.

In Cultural Genocide I laid out how the Israelis were attempting to undermine and ultimately destroy Palestinian culture in a seemingly never-ending effort to "Hebraize" the territory now called Israel. Here are some of the techniques employed:

(1) the practice of renaming, which began as early as the 1920s: "With the help of archeologists, geographers and biblical scholars" the Zionists "began to systematically erase Palestine's Arab history and heritage from what would be Israel's own official records, maps and histories";

(2) The physical destruction of Palestinian archeological sites, artifacts, ancient mosques and historic houses to the extent that the Unesco World Heritage office describes the Israeli actions as "crimes against the cultural history of mankind";

(3) The purposeful looting and subsequent destruction of Palestinian libraries, archives and museums; and...

(4) the imposition of literally thousands of regulations designed to make it impossible for Palestinians in occupied territory to express themselves culturally or politically. For further information, see Cultural Genocide, pp. 77-80.

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Seventeen-year-old Palestinian activist Ahed Tamimi has been freed from Israeli prison after eight months behind bars. Known to some as the Rosa Parks of Palestine, Tamimi became a hero to Palestinians and people around the world last year after a viral video showed her slapping a heavily armed Israeli soldier near her family's home in the occupied West Bank. The incident came just after Tamimi learned her cousin had been gravely wounded by an Israeli soldier who shot him in the head using a rubber-coated steel bullet.

Video of Tamimi confronting the soldier went viral, elevating her into a symbol of Palestinian resistance. Ahed was soon arrested in the middle of the night and charged with assault in an Israeli military court. She was sentenced to eight months in an Israeli prison and celebrated her 17th birthday behind bars. Her mother was also arrested and charged for incitement, in part for streaming video online showing the interaction between Tamimi and the Israeli soldier. Tamimi and her mother, Nariman, were released in late July. We speak with Ahed Tamimi from her home in the West Bank village of Nabi Saleh.





Transcript

This is a rush transcript. Copy may not be in its final form.

AMY GOODMAN: We begin today's show with a young woman described as the Rosa Parks of Palestine: 17-year-old Ahed Tamimi. Last year, Ahed became a hero to Palestinians after a video went viral showing her slapping a heavily armed Israeli soldier near her family's home in the occupied West Bank. The incident came just after Ahed learned her cousin had been gravely wounded by an Israeli soldier who shot him in the head using a rubber-coated steel bullet. Video of Ahed confronting the soldier went viral, elevating her into a symbol of Palestinian resistance.

Ahed Tamimi was soon arrested in the middle of the night, charged with assault in an Israeli military court. She was sentenced to eight months in an Israeli prison. She turned 17 years there; she celebrated her 17th birthday behind bars. Her mother was also arrested and charged for incitement, in part for streaming video online showing the interaction between Ahed and the Israeli soldier. Both Ahed and her mother, Nariman, were released in late July.

Last week, soon after she was released, Democracy Now!'s Nermeen Shaikh and I spoke with Ahed Tamimi from her home in the West Bank village of Nabi Saleh.

AMY GOODMAN: Ahed, welcome to Democracy Now! How does it feel to be free from jail?

AHED TAMIMI: [translated] It's an extremely wonderful feeling. I hope all prisoners, men and women, live to experience this joy. Of course, my joy is incomplete, because my brothers and sisters remain in prison. And I hope that they are liberated and feel the happiness that I feel today.

AMY GOODMAN: Can you talk about the day you were released? Can you talk about that Sunday, where the Israeli military took you and your mother?

AHED TAMIMI: [translated] I was released from prison at 5:30, and they took me to Rantees, but they told my parents that I would be released at the Jbara checkpoint. It's about an hour between Rantees and Jbara. They kept playing with my parents, telling them here, then there, then there. They made my parents go everywhere. At the end, they ended up dropping us off at the gateway to the village.

NERMEEN SHAIKH: Can you explain, Ahed, what actually led to your arrest?

AHED TAMIMI: [translated] They accused me of hitting a soldier. I had 12 charges brought up against me, but the main one was the charge of hitting a soldier in front of the door of my house. My goal wasn't to hit him. I didn't intend to hit him. He had shot my cousin in the head, and my cousin was going to die because of the injury. The soldier at the front of my house was shooting at children and young men in the street. I'm not the one that went to him. He's the one that was at the front of my door.

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By Dave Lindorff







striking garment workers in NY's Union Square

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Economists say they are stumped by a mystery: Since the US economy is doing so well, and unemployment is down to below 4%, which many argue is close to "full employment" in historic US terms, why is it that wages are not growing, and in fact, are lower in real dollars than they were in 1974, almost half a century ago.

Reading articles like these in news reports ranging from NPR to the New York Times to the Economist magazine in the UK, is a good source for some laughs.

These poor financial journalists and the economists they quote as their sources are all struggling because because their models, and everything they learned in school about market theory, says that if labor markets are"tight," meaning that there are few jobs available to unemployed workers, it should drive up wages of those who have jobs, because employers would have a hard time replacing workers who ask for more money.

Perhaps in some magic world where workers and bosses were operating basically as equals in some mystical"free marketplace," that might be true, but it ignores things like power relations and labor law, the pernicious role of the new digital age where a worker's employment record is immediately available for inspection by any potential new employer, and of course the existence of an asymetric "global" economy which allows for the virtually free flow across borders of goods and especially investment capital, but that tightly restricts the flow of labor (that is, workers cannot just up and move to another country where pay and working conditions are better).

Add to that the reality that statistics upon which economists base their views are developed and reported by a government that is almost totally in the pocket of the bosses. So when, for example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says that unemployment is down to just 3.9 percent, that agency is using a definition of unemployment which has been changed multiple times over the years, always in a direction of reducing that number from what would it have been under an earlier definition. Basically the BLS defines the unemployment rate as the number of people who want a job and cannot find one (that's the numerator), divided by the number of people who are "in the labor force" (the denominator). But the BLS today restricts its definition of "in the labor force" to meaning just those who either have a job, or who may not have a job but looked for one at least once during the prior four weeks. Being employed meanwhile, is currently defined broadly as anyone who has worked as little as one hour during the prior to the survey! One hour!

No wonder unemployment in the US is reported as being so low these days"

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smoking gun

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On July 19, Markeis McGlockton, a 28-year-old Black man and his five-year-old son were in a convenience store in Clearwater, Florida, when he heard his girlfriend Britany Jacobs and two other young children were being accosted in their car parked outside. Michael Drejka, an older white man, was aggressively berating Jacobs for being in a handicapped parking place.

Markeis came out, saw what was going on, and shoved Drejka, who fell down. Drejka was unhurt, and Markeis was moving away and clearly didn't have a weapon, but Drejka pulled a gun and shot Markeis dead. Pinellas County police refused to press charges against Drejka because they claimed Florida's "Stand Your Ground" law gave him the right to "defend" himself--never mind this white f*ck is a racist who'd previously threatened to kill a Black truck driver over the parking spot.

Watch the video, and if your blood isn't boiling, watch it again.

There's the insult of "justifiable homicide," and now "it's not about race, it's about self-defense" when it's plain for anyone with eyes to see that "stand your ground" is about giving white people a license to murder Black people. Does anyone think Black people with guns are treated the same as white people with guns?

What other law makes the killer's self-described "state of mind" determine guilt or innocence? Well, there's one other place--when pigs murder someone and then claim they "feared for their lives." This went down--yet again--in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on July 23: A 31-year-old Black man, Thurman Blevins, was murdered by police as he was running away, fearing for his life, begging the cops not to kill him. A week later, the prosecutor announced the pigs wouldn't be charged.

The National Epidemic of White Supremacist Assaults on Black People

These are but two examples of the epidemic of official and unofficial white violence against Black and Brown people sweeping America.

On July 23, two young sisters, Nia and Letifah Wilson, were stabbed for no apparent reason, other than being Black, by a white man outside a BART station in Oakland, California. Nia, 18 years old, had her throat slit and died.

On July 9, Crystle Galloway, a 30-year-old Black woman, died of a stroke five days after Hillsborough County, Florida, paramedics refused to take her by ambulance to a hospital (or check her vital signs) because they said she couldn't afford it.

A recently released video from October 2017 shows Louisiana police strangling Armando Frank, a 44-year-old Black man, to death--simply for asking to see an arrest warrant before they took him into custody!

Then there are the countless examples of everyday racist assaults, confrontations, and siccing pigs on Black people. Just to name some of these, and just from the past month:

On July 4, Jasmine Edwards was swimming in her own residential neighborhood pool in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, when a white man called police on her for supposedly not belonging there.

On July 24, Charles Lovett was followed to his home in Columbus, Ohio, by a white man who claimed he'd been cut off in traffic and then parked in Lovett's driveway shouting racist abuse at him.

On July 25, Darsell Obregon ducked into the entryway of a Brooklyn building to avoid the rain while she waited for a car service, only to have one of the residents call the cops on her because she looked "suspicious."

On July 29, Erika Martin, a young Black woman, was giving food to a homeless man in a Safeway parking lot in Mountain View, California, when employees called the pigs, accusing her of shoplifting--even though she hadn't even been inside the store.

On July 31, Oumou Kanoute was eating lunch at Smith College in Northhampton, Massachusetts, where she's a student; an employee called police because she supposedly looked like a "suspicious black male" who was "out of place." "All I did was be Black," Kanoute said.

This violent white supremacy is being openly celebrated--and further organized--by "alt-right" Nazis and white supremacists who held rallies in Portland, Oregon, on Saturday, August 4 and Berkeley, California, on Sunday to commemorate the one-year anniversary of their murderous fascist rampage in Charlottesville, Virginia. Both protests were marked by the fascists being greatly outnumbered by a wide range of anti-fascist, anti-racist protesters--including in the Bay Area from Revolution Books and Refuse Fascism--and by the police protecting the Nazis and attacking protesters!

Last year's "Unite the Right" gathering in Charlottesville was an outrage during which anti-Nazi/white supremacist protestor Heather Heyer was murdered and dozens of other courageous protesters were assaulted by these Nazis. The fact that these fascists are celebrating this now shows they are deadly serious about spreading fascism and violently assaulting those who stand in their way.

And the fact that Trump continues to incite hate-filled white supremacy--through racist tweets, KKKampaign rallies, and official actions--and has refused to ever directly condemn the alt-right/Nazi crimes at Charlottesville shows that all this putrid, dangerous white-supremacist sh*t is being backed up from the highest offices of the land.

None of this can be allowed to stand!
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"Ahab is forever Ahab, man. This whole act's immutably decreed. 'Twas rehearsed by thee and me billion years before this ocean rolled. Fool! I am the Fates' lieutenant; I act under orders."

-- Herman Melville, Moby Dick

"The greatest evil is not now done in those sordid 'dens of crime' that Dickens loved to paint. But it is conceived and ordered (moved, seconded, carried, and minuted) in clean, carpeted, warmed, and well-lighted offices, by quiet men with white collars and cut fingernails and smooth-shaven cheeks who do not need to raise their voice."

-- C. S. Lewis, author's preface, 1962, The Screwtape Letters

American history can only accurately be described as the story of demonic possession, however you choose to understand that phrase. Maybe radical "evil" will suffice. But right from the start the American colonizers were involved in massive killing because they considered themselves divinely blessed and guided, a chosen people whose mission would come to be called "manifest destiny." Nothing stood in the way of this divine calling, which involved the need to enslave and kill millions and millions of innocent people that continues down to today. "Others" have always been expendable since they have stood in the way of the imperial march ordained by the American god. This includes all the wars waged based on lies and false-flag operations. It is not a secret, although most Americans, if they are aware of it, prefer to see it as a series of aberrations carried out by "bad apples." Or something from the past.

Our best writers and prophets have told us the truth: Thoreau, Twain, William James, MLK, Fr. Daniel Berrigan, et al.: we are a nation of killers of the innocent. We are conscienceless. We are brutal. We are in the grip of evil forces.

The English writer D. H. Lawrence said it perfectly in 1923: "The American soul is hard, isolate, stoic and a killer. It has never yet melted." It still hasn't.

When on August 6 and 9, 1945, the United States killed 200-300 thousand innocent Japanese civilians with atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, they did so intentionally. It was an act of sinister state terrorism, unprecedented by the nature of the weapons but not by the slaughter. The American terror bombings of Japanese cities that preceded the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki -- led by the infamous Major General Curtis LeMay -- were also intentionally aimed at Japanese civilians and killed hundreds of thousands of them.

Is there an American artist's painting of Tokyo destroyed by the firebombing to go next to Picasso's Guernica, where estimates of the dead range between 800 and 1,600? In Tokyo alone more than 100, 000 Japanese civilians were burnt to death by cluster bombs of napalm. All this killing was intentional. I repeat: Intentional. Is that not radical evil? Demonic? Only five Japanese cities were spared such bombing.

The atomic bombings were an intentional holocaust, not to end the war, as the historical record amply demonstrates, but to send a message to the Soviet Union that we could do to them what we did to the residents of Japan. President Truman made certain that the Japanese willingness to surrender in May 1945 was made unacceptable because he and his Secretary-of-State James Byrnes wanted to use the atomic bombs -- "as quickly as possible to 'show results'" in Byrnes' words -- to send a message to the Soviet Union. So "the Good War" was ended in the Pacific with the "good guys" killing hundreds of thousand Japanese civilians to make a point to the "bad guys," who have been demonized ever since. Russia phobia is nothing new.

Satan always wears the other's face.

Many Baby Boomers like to say they grew up with the bomb. They are lucky. They grew up. They got be scared. They got to hide under their desks and wax nostalgic about it. Do you remember dog tags? Those 1950s and 1960s? The scary movies?

The children of Hiroshima and Nagasaki who died under our bombs on August 6 and 9, 1945, didn't get to grow up. They couldn't hide. They just went under. To be accurate: we put them under. Or they were left to smolder for decades in pain and then die. But that it was necessary to save American lives is the lie. It's always about American lives, as if the owners of the country actually cared about them. But to tender hearts and innocent minds, it's a magic incantation. Poor us!

Fat Man, Little Boy -- how the words echo down the years to the now fat Americans who grew up in the 1950s and who think like little boys and girls about their country's demonic nature. Innocence -- it is wonderful! We are different now. "We are great because we are good," that's what Hillary Clinton told us. The Libyans can attest to that. We are exceptional, special. The next election will prove we can defeat Mr. Pumpkin Head and restore America to its "core values."

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From Informed Comment

Paul Manafort, Donald Trump's campaign manager, is being tried for money laundering, keeping some 15 illegal foreign accounts, and cheating the government out of the taxes he rightfully owed, among a host of other crimes.

Manafort joined Trump's presidential campaign in March, 2016, having offered to work for free, and tried to persuade delegates to back trump. On June 20, 2016, Trump made Manafort his campaign manager. Manafort was intimately involved in running the campaign, overseeing millions of dollars, campaign strategy, and staffing. Manafort was involved in the infamous meeting on June 9, 2016, with Russian agent Natalia Veselnitskaya, set up by Emin Agalarov and Vladimir Putin, which Trump and his son Don Jr. are said to have attempted to get hacked dirt on Hillary Clinton from the Russians.

The quid pro quo would be the lifting of Magnitsky Act sanctions on Putin cronies and oligarchs in Russia who allegedly had been involved in the murder of political opponent. As campaign chair, Manafort had a plank taken out of the Republican platform that pledged military aid to Ukraine to fight Russian incursions in the east. Manafort had allegedly received over $12 mn from the pro-Russian Ukrainian Party of Regions at one time headed by Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovych. When this allegation became public in mid-August, Trump fired Manafort after the latter's six months of direct service, and brought the fascist white nationalist Steve Bannon aboard in the campaign chairman position.

Manafort's business associate Rick Gates has rolled over on him, providing the Federal government with information on the illegal activities that the two engaged in, and admitting along the way that he, Gates, had defrauded Manafort of some $800,000.

Where did the millions of dollars come from that Manafort allegedly laundered or hid in secret overseas accounts?

Well, some millions appear to have come from Russian oil money, laundered through Ukrainian sockpuppets.

But Manafort was not new at this business of influence peddling. He had worked on the Gerald Ford and George H. W. Bush campaigns, and was extremely well-connected in the Republican Party. His lobbying firm in the 1990s and after represented the most sordid gallery of torturers and villains ever assembled in one client list.

There was no strong man so idious that Manafort would not take his money and make phone calls to his old buddies on his behalf.

Manafort's firm represented the Saudis for several months at one point.

The firm is alleged to have gotten money from the Pakistani Inter Services Intelligence to promote the cause of Muslim separatists in India's Kashmir province. There is nothing wrong with Kashmir's people wanting better governance, but the whole affair was likely a false flag operation.

Even as late as fall, 2016, Manafort was still lobbying away, taking money to help organize the ill-fated referendum for independence in Iraqi Kurdistan, which the Baghdad government shut down by sending in troops.

Note that in addition to Russia, the Middle East bulks large in all this corruption.

Behind the scenes, Manafort was providing the only value added he knew: connections. He would make The Call. To the movers and shakers. Congressional representatives, senators, powerful people in Washington. Because of Manafort's long association with them, he was a known quantity. They would take the call from him, give him his 15 minutes of lobbying time.

(I was once told by a staffer in Congress that a representative's day is divided into 15-minute segments, in which lobbyists one after another come to her or him to lay out what their clients' wanted.) The implication was that the client would donate to the Congress-person's campaign. Running for national office is expensive, mainly because of the cost of radio and television ads (which however ought to be nationalized and made free).

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From Sputnik

So the US news media are in uproar over President Trump's latest admission that a meeting between his son and a Russian lawyer more than two years ago was about "getting dirt" on Hillary Clinton.

With self-righteous probity, Trump's political and media enemies are declaring him a felon for accepting foreign interference in the US presidential election.

Admittedly, President Trump appears to have been telling lies about the past meeting, which took place at Trump Tower in New York City in the summer of 2016. Or maybe it's just this American president shooting himself in the foot -- again -- with his inimical gibberish-style.

However, the burning issue of "foreign interference" is being stoked out of all proportion by Trump's enemies who want him ousted from the White House.

US constitutional law forbids candidates from receiving help from foreign governments or foreign nationals.

Thus, by appearing to accept a meeting with a Russian lawyer in June 2016 -- during the presidential campaign -- the Trump election team are accused of breaking US law.

The alleged transgression fits in with the wider narrative of "Russiagate" which posits that Republican candidate Donald Trump colluded with the Kremlin to win the race to the White House against Democrat rival Hillary Clinton.

Russia has always denied any involvement in the US elections, saying the allegations are preposterous. Moscow also points out that in spite of indictments leveled by American prosecutors, there is no evidence to support claims that Russian hackers meddled in the presidential campaign, or that the Kremlin somehow assisted Trump.

The Russian lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, who met with the Trump campaign team in early June 2016 is described in US media as "Kremlin-linked." But that seems to be just more innuendo in place of facts. She denies any such connection. The Kremlin also says it had no relation with the attorney on her business of approaching Team Trump.

In any case, what is being totally missed in the latest brouhaha is the staggering hypocrisy in the US media circus over Trump. Let's take Trump at his word -- not a reliable source admittedly -- that his campaign team were trying to "get dirt" on Clinton. That would appear to be a violation of US law.

If Trump is going to be nailed for improper conduct with regard to alleged foreign assistance, then where does that leave Hillary Clinton and US intelligence agencies?

During the presidential campaign, Clinton's team contracted a British spy, Christopher Steele, to dig up dirt on Trump in the form of the so-called "Russian dossier." That was the pile of absurd claims alleging that the Kremlin had blackmailing leverage over Donald Trump. It was Steele's fantasies that largely turned into the whole Russiagate affair, which has dominated US media and politics for the past two years.

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Renewed economic sanctions on Iran by Trump took effect yesterday, August 6, 2018

In the bizarro world of Donald Trump, the renewed US economic sanctions on Iran are "the most biting sanctions ever imposed. In November they ratchet up to yet another level. Anyone doing business will NOT be doing business with the United States. I am asking for WORLD PEACE, nothing less".

How that translates into asking for world peace may somehow make sense to the "Donald". But unless you're one who accepts whatever he says as the gospel it makes no sense.

It's as if putting a gun to someone's head will get them to freely choose to accept what is offered by the gun holder so world peace will be achieved.

Iran may have a US gun pointed at it but it's not about to capitulate and negotiate with the US with sanctions against them. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has made it clear, "Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense."

Many Iranian's may be dissatisfied with its elected government, the sectarian oversight of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and particularly the severity of economic sanctions that hurt them directly. But make no mistake if US sanctions in November prevent Iran from freely selling its oil-Turkey, India and China not withstanding-this will be an act of war committed by the US against Iran. Qassem Solaimani, the Commander of the Quds Force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards said, "Iran will block oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz" if Trump stops Iran from selling its oil. What that means is oil from Saudi Arabia, natural gas from Qatar will be prevented from traversing the Persian Gulf into the open ocean.

If an open hot war breaks out the Iranian people will support the regime. There will be no regime change in Iran, the long held fantasy of the neo-cons that control "official" Washington.

With a quarter of the world's oil shipped through the Persian Gulf disrupted a worldwide economic recession will likely occur with oil prices possibly in the $250 dollar range.

Scott Ritter, the former IAEA nuclear inspector in Iraq in the 1990's who knew first hand Iraq under Saddam Hussein had no weapons of mass destruction, that the IAEA inspectors scoured the country and no WMD programs or facilities remained undiscovered, made the public aware of these facts in 2002.

With regards to Iran Ritter lists the "major reasons why Trump is wrong if he thinks Iran will accede to his demands that it negotiate a nuclear agreement to replace the JCPOA". [1]

1. "Iran Isn't Breaking the Law"- Iran is in full compliance to the nuclear deal signed with the US, Britain, France, Russia, China and Germany, the P5 +1 in 2015.

2. "Iran Doesn't Have to Win to Win"- "Threatening Iran with war is doomed to fail...Iran will emerge victorious simply because it survived...to any military response".

3. "Religious Democracy"- The Iranian Republic is "complex". Has "a democratically elected executive and legislature subject to a review by a theocracy that itself is governed by a constitution and held accountable via elections" with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei saying Iran is a "religious democracy" and "via elections is indicative of the nation's health."

If as expected Trump follows through with the November oil sanctions against Iran, though most people in the US at first won't likely recognize the implications of this insane move, will in all probability see themselves once again immersed in an economic recession caused by "official" Washington's insane policies toward Iran.

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From Smirking Chimp

It is impossible to know for certain what happened in the United States presidential election of 2016. Donald Trump, the unlikely winner, won by a clear margin. His victory was guaranteed when he was able to defeat his Democratic Party rival, Hillary Clinton, in a handful of States in the Midwest. Trump won in each of the battleground States -- Florida, Iowa, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. The margins were not always large, but he won nonetheless. Opinion polls had not shown this to be the case and most political pundits did not expect Trump to win. Indeed, there was even talk that Hillary Clinton would win States such as Utah -- guaranteed to vote Republican -- but this was not to be; Trump took Utah by a decent margin. Most of the experienced political operatives and journalists felt that Hillary Clinton might even win by a landslide. As it turned out, she won three million votes more than Trump, but by the peculiar logic of the U.S. election system, Trump won by 304 electoral college votes to Hillary Clinton's 227.

A year and a half later, the U.S. public is still wondering how Trump won. Disbelief is the dominant mood among Democratic Party voters and those who have come to dislike Trump. How is it possible for this man, they say, to have won the election? One cannot say the turnout was low, for more people voted in the highly contentious election in 2016 than they did to re-elect Barack Obama in 2012. It is true that the margin of victory in 12 of the most important States was very narrow. In four States -- Michigan, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin -- Trump won by less than a 1 percent margin and took 46 electoral college votes from Hillary Clinton. In two other States, Florida and New Hampshire, with 20 additional electoral college votes, Trump won by a margin of just over 1 percent. This was a very tight contest. Hillary Clinton might well have won the election if the margins had gone in her favor. As it turned out, Trump won.

There are many conventional reasons why Hillary Clinton was not able to defeat Trump -- the 2013 withdrawal of the Voting Rights Act (VRA), the old traditions of misogyny, and a very poor campaign run by the Democratic Party.

The 2016 presidential election was the first one since 1965 where non-white voters were not under the protection of the VRA. The VRA was used effectively against a long history of anti-democratic means employed to suppress the Black, Asian, Native America and Latino vote. Just after the election, the Election Protection Coalition reported that it had logged 35,000 complaints for voter intimidation, changes of voting sites without notice and long lines. This was the tip of the iceberg. Clever use of voter identification policies and creating difficulties for those without cars to vote meant the disenfranchisement of certain parts of the population. The summer before the 2016 election, an appeals court ruled that the North Carolina legislator's bid to create a voter identification system would "target African-Americans with almost surgical precision." This is precisely what happened across the U.S. Sections of faithful voters for the Democratic Party found it impossible to vote. When the margins are as tight as they were, this form of voter suppression can be very valuable.

Hillary Clinton was the first woman to run on a major party ticket for the U.S. presidency. This was the 58th presidential election and yet, none of the two main parties had ever nominated a woman to run for President. The Communists and the Green Party had done so, but they have not been in a position to win the election. Hillary Clinton knew well the immense challenge it posed for her. She did an admirable job of trying to balance the sexist expectations for the presidency and the fact of her being a woman.

A study conducted during the election campaign found that those who believed that U.S. society was becoming "too soft and feminine" were four times likely to hold an unfavorable view of Hillary Clinton. These were the same people who salivated over the prospect of a Trump presidency. Misogyny, or hatred of women, is a general social phenomenon. In October 2017, a year after the election, Hillary Clinton told CNN that sexism played a role in her loss of the presidency. Donald Trump, she said, is "Exhibit A of what we're up against" in terms of the high "level of sexism" in U.S. society. There is, Hillary Clinton pointed out, "a backlash against women speaking out. I think sexism and misogyny are endemic in our society," she said forcefully.

Errors are inevitable in any electoral contest. It is impossible to forecast the way things will go and how small gestures can be magnified. Obama had captured the public imagination in the U.S., but more than anything else, he had fired up the actual base of the Democratic Party, a base of African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans and the labor movement. His choice of Joe Biden as his Vice President was clever: Biden, who comes from the battleground region of western Pennsylvania, found it easy to reach out to the voters who would later abandon the Democratic Party for Trump.

Hillary Clinton chose as her running mate a white man with little charisma and no ability to reach the impoverished and other disadvantaged sections. Hillary Clinton did not campaign as vigorously as she should have in these marginal areas, nor did her party let loose their surrogates to inspire those who lived in broken communities. She was too closely associated with the presidency of her husband, Bill Clinton, whose policies had set in motion the globalization policies that wiped out jobs in these battleground States. For instance, Wisconsin, once a Democratic and labor stronghold, is now an unlikely bastion of the Far Right. This was the unfortunate inheritance that Hillary Clinton had to carry. It is also the case that she was not temperamentally able to pivot Leftwards and provide a manifesto against the policies that have increased inequality and suffering.

If you read Hillary Clinton's memoir, What Happened (2017), you will find gestures towards all these reasons why she was not able to win. It is a long book, a book of sorrows and anger. The longest section is not given over to the racist decision by the U.S. Supreme Court or to the deep core of misogyny that structures U.S. society. The longest section is reserved for Russia. "I never imagined that he would have the audacity to launch a massive covert attack against our own democracy, right under our noses -- and that he'd get away with it," Hillary Clinton wrote. The "he" is not Trump but Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Russian interference

U.S. political debate is now structured around the phrase "Russian interference in the U.S. election." Investigations are ongoing, with the most significant of them all being conducted by Robert Mueller, former head of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Mueller has not said how long he will take, but small leaks from his office indicate that he has built up an enormous case that reveals some level of interference by the Russian state. Mueller has a great many indictments that have led to arrests but nothing yet on Trump's involvement. One member of the team indicates that there is not enough that leads directly to Trump. But there is evidence of conversations between Trump's team and various Russians. The arrest of the Russian student Maria Butina and the indictment of 12 Russian officials of the GRU, the Russian intelligence agency, have raised eyebrows. The investigation suggests that the Russians created a troll farm to influence voters on social media. But, again, much of the public record is circumstantial and inconclusive.

In mid July, the U.S. Justice Department announced a new policy to alert the population about foreign cyber operations. Its Cyber-Digital Task Force, set up in February, released a report that laid the outlines of the new policy. But even here, the department cautioned, it would be necessary to be careful not to reveal sources. There has been no comparable report on racist voter suppression or misogyny. In fact, there is no discussion about these issues at all.
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From Robert Reich Blog

What's the most worrisome foreign intrusion into the United States -- unauthorized immigrants, Chinese imports, or interference in our democracy?

For Trump, it's immigrants and imports. He doesn't care much about the third.

"Border security is national security," Trump said last week, as he threatened a government shutdown if Congress didn't come up with money to build a wall along the Mexican border (at an estimated cost at least $25 billion).

Meanwhile, Trump has ordered his administration to consider raising tariff rates on $200 billion of Chinese goods, prompting China to threaten higher tariffs on $60 billion more of American goods.

Yet Trump continues to assert that talk of Russian meddling in American elections is "a big hoax." And his White House still has no coordinated plan for dealing with it.

Trump has it backwards.

Illegal immigration isn't the problem he makes it out to be. Illegal border crossings have been declining for years.

And if the Chinese want to continue to send us cheap imports that we pay for with U.S. dollars and our own IOUs, that's as much of a potential problem for them as it is for us.

But Russian attacks on our democracy are a clear and present threat aimed at the heart of America.

Facebook recently announced it uncovered a major disinformation campaign with the hallmarks of the same Kremlin-linked Internet Research Agency responsible for election interference in 2016.

Trump's own Department of Homeland Security found that in that 2016 election, Russian hackers tried to breach election systems in at least 21 states, likely scanned systems in all 50 states, stole the private information of hundreds of thousands of people, and infiltrated a company that supplies voting software across the nation. These findings led to the July indictment of 12 Russian Intelligence Officers.

Russian hackers are likely planning the same sort of intervention in this November's midterm elections. Kirstjen Nielsen, Secretary of Homeland Security, worries about Russia's ongoing "willingness and a capability" to hack into the American election infrastructure, including voter rolls and voting machines.

FBI Director Christopher Wray warns that "Russia ... continues to engage in malign influence operations to this day." Dan Coats, Director of National Intelligence, says "Russians are looking for every opportunity ... to continue their pervasive efforts to undermine our fundamental values."

Trump himself has admitted that his campaign aides met with Kremlin-linked Russian nationals on June 9, 2016 "to get information on" Hillary Clinton -- even though federal law prohibits soliciting help from foreign nationals in connection with a federal election.

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(This is a reprint from NewsBred).



Justice KM Joseph and Indian media

(Image by newsbred.com) Details DMCA



Something doesn't seem right here. All the four major English dailies--Indian Express, The Hindu, Times of India, Hindustan Times--today (August 6, 2018) have a front-page blockbuster story of "some" Supreme Court judges planning to corner Chief Justice of India (CJI) Deepak Misra on Monday over the "downgrade" of Justice KM Joseph.

A background is necessary: The President of India has cleared Madras High Court Chief Justice Indira Banerjee, Orissa HC CJ Vineet Saran and Uttarakhand HC CJ KM Joseph as judges of the Supreme Court. However, Joseph has been put last in the list of seniority and this has got the hackles up for a few Supreme Court judges, as these pious newspapers claim.

You could belong to one of the three categories below:

(a) A complete innocent on the "judicial-activism-of-Supreme-Court-kind" who would instantly ask if this is true and whether the Centre has indeed been manipulative.

(b) A general reader who probably knows that government had asked SC collegium to reconsider Joseph's name but after being re-recommended by the SC, has now acceded to their request.

(c) A keen hawk of Indian politics who knows all about the "puppets" (i.e. media) and their "masters" (left-liberal lobby).

If you are a complete innocent then it's important to know that the government is strictly going by the book. As per Article 124 (2) of the Constitution, The President may but is not obliged to consult Supreme Court judges. As for seniority, KM Joseph is least senior amongst the three in terms of dates when they were appointed High Court judges (see image). I leave it to you what to make out of the unnamed judges plea that "Joseph must be recommended senior-most since his name was recommended first." What logic? Juvenile, I say.

Now, if you are one from the second category, a general reader who knows basic details, you are still wondering why there's so much of fuss over Joseph's name. Well the media tells you that's because as Uttarakhand High Court Chief Justice, he overturned the President's Rule in the state two years ago (and that's why the Modi government is being vindictive). It might help you to know that as per law minister Ravi Shankar Prasad at that time, there are presently 11 more Chief Justices of various HC who are senior to Joseph; and that Kerala HC already has a judge in the SC.

And finally, if you are in the third category, a keen hawk, you would dribble out a few simple questions: How come all the newspapers have same story and same detail without anyone being named? Was there a press conference? Did all those Supreme Court judges who intend to corner CJI Deepak Misra on Monday rang up newspaper offices? Or is it there is a "diktat" to our Lutyens' Media to roll out the story as they have been told? Or whether a favourable judge today could be a difference between imprisonment and freedom for those out on bails or being pursued by state agencies such as Enforcement Directorate (ED).

Quite clearly, it's the last option that seems most plausible. Does the "deep state" of India, read long-ruling left-liberal combine who control media and academia in this country, have the ears, if not the pockets, of both judiciary and media? May be they are doing out of fear. Or they are compromised. One thing though could be said with certainty: in this harmonica, all the notes are one and coming out of a single mouth.

The danger is acute. Supreme Court seems to be exercising its overreach; it's getting into the crosshairs of executive, that's government. A showdown is not far off. As the SC/ST Act has shown, the government is prepared to reverse a SC ruling when it suspects an intrusion into their authority and responsibility. More such repeats could happen.

Supreme Court must appear neutral; never show bias or prejudice or overreach for people are beginning to impute motives. It should never be seen doing a PR exercise. The people have noticed how a press conference by a few honourable SC judges was not criticized; how shamelessly an "impeachment" notice against CJI was moved; how retirement of SC judges--from 'packers and movers" to full-page interviews--was covered; or how the KM Joseph non-issue is being given wind to by Lutyens media and their masters.

Who cares if long-established norms and institutions are brought down, anarchy is served for course and blood is your drinks for the night.
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Albany, NY, 7th August : Recent research and the current scenario as well as future market potential of "Global Silica Aerogel Insulation Materials Market Research Report 2018" globally.This report studies the global Silica Aerogel Insulation Materials market status and forecast, categorizes the global Silica Aerogel Insulation Materials market size (value & volume) by manufacturers, type, application, and region. This report focuses on the top manufacturers in North America, Europe, Japan, China and other regions (India, Southeast Asia, Central & South America, and Middle East & Africa).Get PDF for more Professional and Technical insights @The global Silica Aerogel Insulation Materials market is valued at million US$ in 2017 and will reach million US$ by the end of 2025, growing at a CAGR of during 2018-2025.The major manufacturers covered in this reportAspen AerogelsCabot CorporationAerogel TechnologiesNano High-TechGuangdong Alison Hi-TechActive AerogelsEnersensJios Aerogel CorporationInsulgel High-TechGuizhou AerospaceGreen Earth Aerogel Technologies (GEAT)Geographically, this report studies the top producers and consumers, focuses on product capacity, production, value, consumption, market share and growth opportunity in these key regions, coveringNorth AmericaEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaOther Regions (India, Southeast Asia, Central & South America and Middle East & Africa)View Complete TOC with tables & Figures @We can also provide the customized separate regional or country-level reports, for the following regions:North AmericaUnited StatesCanadaMexicoAsia-PacificChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaAustraliaIndonesiaSingaporeRest of Asia-PacificEuropeGermanyFranceUKItalySpainRussiaRest of EuropeCentral & South AmericaBrazilArgentinaRest of South AmericaMiddle East & AfricaSaudi ArabiaTurkeyRest of Middle East & AfricaOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split intoBlanketParticlePanelOtherOn the basis of the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate for each application, includingBuilding InsulationOil & Gas ConsumablesTransportationAerospace & Defence MaterialsOtherThe study objectives of this report are:To analyze and study the global Silica Aerogel Insulation Materials capacity, production, value, consumption, status (2013-2017) and forecast (2018-2025);Focuses on the key Silica Aerogel Insulation Materials manufacturers, to study the capacity, production, value, market share and development plans in future.Focuses on the global key manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the market competition landscape, SWOT analysis.To define, describe and forecast the market by type, application and region.To analyze the global and key regions market potential and advantage, opportunity and challenge, restraints and risks.To identify significant trends and factors driving or inhibiting the market growth.To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying the high growth segments.To strategically analyze each submarket with respect to individual growth trend and their contribution to the marketTo analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the marketTo strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies.In this study, the years considered to estimate the market size of Silica Aerogel Insulation Materials are as follows:History Year: 2013-2017Base Year: 2017Estimated Year: 2018Forecast Year 2018 to 2025For the data information by region, company, type and application, 2017 is considered as the base year. Whenever data information was unavailable for the base year, the prior year has been considered.Key StakeholdersSilica Aerogel Insulation Materials ManufacturersSilica Aerogel Insulation Materials Distributors/Traders/WholesalersSilica Aerogel Insulation Materials Subcomponent ManufacturersIndustry AssociationDownstream VendorsBrowse Report @Available CustomizationsWith the given market data, QYResearch offers customizations according to the company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:Regional and country-level analysis of the Silica Aerogel Insulation Materials market, by end-use.Detailed analysis and profiles of additional market players.ResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. 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Global Industrial IoT (IIoT) Chipsets industry Analysis, Growth, Trends & Forecast 2018-2023

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Global Industrial IoT (IIoT) Chipsets industry Analysis, Growth, Trends & Forecast 2018-2023The global market size of Industrial IoT (IIoT) Chipsets is $XX million in 2017 with XX CAGR from 2013 to 2017, and it is expected to reach $XX million by the end of 2023 with a CAGR of XX% from 2018 to 2023.Download Free Sample:The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of physical devices, vehicles, home appliances, and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and connectivity which enables these things to connect and exchange data, creating opportunities for more direct integration of the physical world into computer-based systems, resulting in efficiency improvements, economic benefits, and reduced human exertions.For competitor segment, the report includes global key players of Industrial IoT (IIoT) Chipsets as well as some small players. The compnaies include:IoT involves extending internet connectivity beyond standard devices, such as desktops, laptops, smartphones and tablets, to any range of traditionally dumb or non-internet-enabled physical devices and everyday objects. Embedded with technology, these devices can communicate and interact over the internet, and they can be remotely monitored and controlled.Cypress Semiconductor, Intel, NXP Semiconductor, STMicroelectronics, Texas Instruments, Cisco, Advanced Micro Devices, Toshiba, Qualcomm, Infineon Technologies, NVIDIA, Philips, GE et al.Ask For Customized Report:There are 3 key segments covered in this report: geography segment, end use/application segment and competitor segment.For geography segment, regional supply, application-wise and type-wise demand, major players, price is presented from 2013 to 2023. This report coverss following regions:*North America*South America*Asia & Pacific*Europe*MEA (Middle East and Africa)Buy Report:We also can offer customized report to fulfill special requirements of our clients.Research Reports Inc. is one of the leading destinations for market research reports across all industries, companies, and technologies. Our repository features an exhaustive list of market research reports from thousands of publishers worldwide.Contact Us:DavidSales Manager,US / Canada Toll Free: +18554192424UK: +4403308087577Email: sales@researchreportsinc.com
Big Data in the Financial Services Industry Share, Opportunities, Challenges, Strategies & Forecasts 2018 - 2030

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Latest research study and overview on "Big Data in the Financial Services Industry: 2018 - 2030 - Opportunities, Challenges, Strategies & Forecasts"Big Data originally emerged as a term to describe datasets whose size is beyond the ability of traditional databases to capture, store, manage and analyze. However, the scope of the term has significantly expanded over the years. Big Data not only refers to the data itself but also a set of technologies that capture, store, manage and analyze large and variable collections of data, to solve complex problems.Amid the proliferation of real-time and historical data from sources such as connected devices, web, social media, sensors, log files and transactional applications, Big Data is rapidly gaining traction from a diverse range of vertical sectors. The financial services industry is no exception to this trend, where Big Data has found a host of applications ranging from targeted marketing and credit scoring to usage-based insurance, data-driven trading, fraud detection and beyond.SNS Telecom & IT estimates that Big Data investments in the financial services industry will account for nearly $9 Billion in 2018 alone. Led by a plethora of business opportunities for banks, insurers, credit card and payment processing specialists, asset and wealth management firms, lenders and other stakeholders, these investments are further expected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 17% over the next three years.Get the sample copy of report @The Big Data in the Financial Services Industry: 2018  2030  Opportunities, Challenges, Strategies & Forecasts report presents an in-depth assessment of Big Data in the financial services industry including key market drivers, challenges, investment potential, application areas, use cases, future roadmap, value chain, case studies, vendor profiles and strategies. The report also presents market size forecasts for Big Data hardware, software and professional services investments from 2018 through to 2030. The forecasts are segmented for 8 horizontal sub markets, 6 application areas, 11 use cases, 6 regions and 35 countries.The report comes with an associated Excel datasheet suite covering quantitative data from all numeric forecasts presented in the report.Topics CoveredThe report covers the following topics:Big Data ecosystemMarket drivers and barriersEnabling technologies, standardization and regulatory initiativesBig Data analytics and implementation modelsBusiness case, application areas and use cases in the financial services industry30 case studies of Big Data investments by banks, insurers, credit card and payment processing specialists, asset and wealth management firms, lenders, and other stakeholders in the financial services industryFuture roadmap and value chainProfiles and strategies of over 270 leading and emerging Big Data ecosystem playersStrategic recommendations for Big Data vendors and financial services industry stakeholdersMarket analysis and forecasts from 2018 till 2030Get complete report TOC @Forecast SegmentationMarket forecasts are provided for each of the following submarkets and their subcategories:Hardware, Software & Professional ServicesHardwareSoftwareProfessional ServicesHorizontal Sub marketsStorage & Compute InfrastructureNetworking InfrastructureHadoop & Infrastructure SoftwareSQLNoSQLAnalytic Platforms & ApplicationsCloud PlatformsProfessional ServicesApplication AreasPersonal & Business BankingInvestment Banking & Capital MarketsInsurance ServicesCredit Cards & Payment ProcessingLending & FinancingAsset & Wealth ManagementUse CasesPersonalized & Targeted MarketingCustomer Service & ExperienceProduct Innovation & DevelopmentRisk Modeling, Management & ReportingFraud Detection & PreventionRobotic & Intelligent Process AutomationUsage & Analytics-Based InsuranceCredit Scoring & ControlData-Driven Trading & InvestmentThird Party Data MonetizationOther Use CasesRegional MarketsAsia PacificEastern EuropeLatin & Central AmericaMiddle East & AfricaNorth AmericaWestern EuropeCountry MarketsArgentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, UAE, UK, USAKey Questions AnsweredThe report provides answers to the following key questions:How big is the Big Data opportunity in the financial services industry?How is the market evolving by segment and region?What will the market size be in 2021, and at what rate will it grow?What trends, challenges and barriers are influencing its growth?Who are the key Big Data software, hardware and services vendors, and what are their strategies?How much are banks, insurers, credit card and payment processing specialists, asset and wealth management firms, lenders and other stakeholders investing in Big Data?What opportunities exist for Big Data analytics in the financial services industry?Which countries, application areas and use cases will see the highest percentage of Big Data investments in the financial services industry?Key FindingsThe report has the following key findings:In 2018, Big Data vendors will pocket nearly $9 Billion from hardware, software and professional services revenues in the financial services industry. These investments are further expected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 17% over the next three years, eventually accounting for over $14 Billion by the end of 2021.Banks and other traditional financial services institutes are warming to the idea of embracing cloud-based platforms, particularly hybrid-cloud implementations, in a bid to alleviate the technical and scalability challenges associated with on-premise Big Data environments.Big Data technologies are playing a pivotal role in facilitating the creation and success of innovative FinTech (Financial Technology) startups, most notably in the online lending, alterative insurance and money transfer sectors.In addition to utilizing traditional information sources, financial services institutes are increasingly becoming reliant on alternative sources of data  ranging from social media to satellite imagery  that can provide previously hidden insights for multiple application areas including data-driven trading and investments, and credit scoring.List of Companies Mentioned1010dataAbsolutdataAcadian Asset ManagementAccentureActian CorporationAdaptive InsightsAdobe SystemsAdvizor SolutionsAeroSpikeAFS TechnologiesAlationAlgorithmiaAlluxioAlphabetALTENAlteryxAMD (Advanced Micro Devices)American ExpressAnacondaApixioAQR Capital ManagementArcadia DataArimoARMASF (Apache Software Foundation)AtScaleAttivioAttunityAutomated InsightsAvantAVORAAWS (Amazon Web Services)AXAAxiomaticsAyasdiBackOffice AssociatesBasho TechnologiesBCG (Boston Consulting Group)Bedrock DataBetterWorksBig PandaBigMLBirstBitamBlackRockBloombergBlue MedoraBlueData SoftwareBlueTalonBMC SoftwareBOARD InternationalBooz Allen HamiltonBoxeverCACI InternationalCambridge SemanticsCapgeminiCapital OneCazenaCBA/CommBank (Commonwealth Bank of Australia)Centrifuge SystemsCenturyLinkChartioCignaCisco SystemsCivis AnalyticsClearStory DataCloudabilityClouderaCloudianClustrixCognitiveScaleCollibraConcurrent TechnologyConfluentContextiCouchbaseCrate.ioCrayCredit SuisseCSA (Cloud Security Alliance)CSCC (Cloud Standards Customer Council)DatabricksDataikuDatalytyxDatameerDataRobotDataStaxDatawatch CorporationDatos IODDN (DataDirect Networks)DecisyonDell TechnologiesDeloitteDemandbaseDenodo TechnologiesDeutsche BankDianomic SystemsDigital Reasoning SystemsDimensional InsightDMG (Data Mining Group)Dolphin Enterprise Solutions CorporationDomino Data LabDomoDremioDriveScaleDruvaDun and BradstreetDundas Data VisualizationDXC TechnologyEagle AlphaElasticEngineering Group (Engineering Ingegneria Informatica)EnterpriseDB CorporationeQ TechnologicEquifaxEricssonErwinEV? (Big Cloud Analytics)EXASOLEXL (ExlService Holdings)FacebookFactsetFICO (Fair Isaac Corporation)Figure EightFogHorn SystemsFractal AnalyticsFranzFujitsuFuzzy LogixGainsightGE (General Electric)GlassbeamGoodData CorporationGoogleGrakn LabsGreenwave SystemsGridGain SystemsGuavusGuidePointH2O.aiHanse Orga GroupHarperDBHCL TechnologiesHedvigHitachi VantaraHortonworksHPE (Hewlett Packard Enterprise)HSBC GroupHuaweiHVRHyperScienceHyTrustIBM CorporationiDashboardsIDERAIEC (International Electrotechnical Commission)IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)Ignite TechnologiesImanis DataImpetus TechnologiesINCITS (InterNational Committee for Information Technology Standards)IncortaInetSoft Technology CorporationInfluxDataInfogixInforInformaticaInformation BuildersInfosysInfoworksInsightsoftware.comInsightSquaredIntel CorporationInteranaInterSystems CorporationISO (International Organization for Standardization)ITU (International Telecommunication Union)JedoxJethroJinfonet SoftwareJNB (Japan Net Bank)JPMorgan Chase & Co.Juniper NetworksKabbageKALEAOKeen IOKeyrusKineticaKNIMEKognitioKyvos InsightsLeanXcaleLenddoEFLLexalyticsLexmark InternationalLightbendLinux FoundationLogi AnalyticsLogical ClocksLongview SolutionsLooker Data SciencesLucidWorksLuminoso TechnologiesMaanaMan GroupManthan Software ServicesMapD TechnologiesMapR TechnologiesMariaDB CorporationMarkLogic CorporationMastercardMathworksMelissaMemSQLMetric InsightsMicrosoft CorporationMicroStrategyMinitabMongoDBMu SigmaNEC CorporationNeo4jNetAppNimbixNokiaNTT Data CorporationNumerifyNuoDBNVIDIA CorporationOASIS (Organization for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards)ObjectivityOblong IndustriesODaF (Open Data Foundation)ODCA (Open Data Center Alliance)OGC (Open Geospatial Consortium)OpenText CorporationOpera SolutionsOptimal PlusOracle CorporationOTP BankPalantir TechnologiesPanasonic CorporationPanorama SoftwarePaxataPepperdataPhocas SoftwarePivotal SoftwarePrognozProgress Software CorporationProgressive CorporationProvalis ResearchPure StoragePwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers International)Pyramid AnalyticsQlikqplumQrama/TenguQuandlQuantum CorporationQuboleRackspaceRadius IntelligenceRapidMinerRavenPackRecorded FutureRed HatRedis LabsRedPoint GlobalReltioRStudioRubrikRyftS&P's (Standard & Poor's)SailthruSalesforce.comSalient Management CompanySamsung Fire & Marine InsuranceSamsung GroupSAPSAS InstituteScaleOut SoftwareSeagate TechnologyShinhan CardSinequaSiSenseSizmekSnapLogicSnowflake ComputingSoftware AGSplice MachineSplunkStrategy Companion CorporationStratioStreamlioStreamSetsStriimSumo LogicSupermicro (Super Micro Computer)SyncsortSynerScopeSYNTASATableau SoftwareTalendTamrTARGITTCS (Tata Consultancy Services)Teradata CorporationThalesThomson ReutersThoughtSpotTIBCO SoftwareTidemarkTM ForumToshiba CorporationTPC (Transaction Processing Performance Council)TransferWiseTranswarpTrifactaTwo Sigma InvestmentsU.S. NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology)Unifi SoftwareUnitedHealth GroupUnravel DataUpstartVANTIQVecima NetworksVisaVMwareVoltDBW3C (World Wide Web Consortium)WANdiscoWaterline DataWestern Digital CorporationWestern UnionWhereScapeWiProWolfram ResearchWorkdayXplentyYellowfin BIYseopZendeskZoomdataZucchettiZurich Insurance GroupWe have built a veritable reputation for our commitment to fulfilling our clients' exacting market research solutions. From Fortune 500 companies to SMEs, our clients place their trust in us for reports from verified publishers.State Tower90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948(USA-Canada)Tel: +1-518-621-2074E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz
Water Conditioning System Market: Emerging industries, Challenges and Threats Faced by Key Vendors, Culligan, RainSoft, H2O Engineering,Pelican Water,General Electric Company | Global Business Outlook till 2025

Water Conditioning System Market 2018-2025

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Water Conditioning System Market Research Report 2018 provides a detailed Global Water Conditioning System Industry overview along with the analysis of industrys gross margin, cost structure, consumption value, and sale price. The leading companies of the Global Water Conditioning System Market, manufacturers, and distributors are profiled in the report along with the latest Industry development current and future trends.Get Sample Copy of this Report -Water Conditioning System market 2018 research provides a basic overview of the industry including definitions, classifications, applications and industry chain structure. The Global Water Conditioning System market analysis is provided for the international markets including development trends, competitive landscape analysis, and key regions development status. Development policies and plans are discussed as well as manufacturing processes and cost structures are also analyzed. This report also states import/export consumption, supply and demand Figures, cost, price, revenue and gross margins.Complete report on Global Water Conditioning System 2018 Market Research Report is spread across 106 pages and provides exclusive vital statistics, data, information, trends and competitive landscape details in this niche sector. Inquire more or share questions if any on this report @Global Water Conditioning System market competition by top manufacturers, with production, price, revenue (value) and market share for each manufacturer; the TOP PLAYERS including Culligan RainSoft H2O Engineering Pelican Water General Electric Company Pelican Water Systems The report also focuses on global major leading industry players of Global Water Conditioning System market providing information such as company profiles, product picture and specification, capacity, production, price, cost, revenue and contact information. Upstream raw materials and equipment and downstream demand analysis is also carried out. The Global Water Conditioning System market development trends and marketing channels are analyzed. Finally the feasibility of new investment projects are assessed and overall research conclusions offered.With tables and figures helping analyze worldwide Global Water Conditioning System market, this research provides key statistics on the state of the industry and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the market.Order a copy of Global Water Conditioning System Market Report 2018 @On the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split into Water Purification System Water Softening SystemOn the basis of the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, consumption (sales), market share and growth rate for each application, including Residential Commercial IndustrialTable of Contents:Global Water Conditioning System Market Research Report 20181.Industry Overview of Water Conditioning System2.Manufacturing Cost Structure Analysis of Water Conditioning System3.Technical Data and Manufacturing Plants Analysis of Water Conditioning System4.Global Water Conditioning System Overall Market Overview5.Water Conditioning System Regional Market Analysis6.Global 2013-2018E Water Conditioning System Segment Market Analysis (by Type)7.Global 2013-2018E Water Conditioning System Segment Market Analysis (by Application)8.Major Manufacturers Analysis of Water Conditioning System9.Development Trend of Analysis of Water Conditioning System Market10.Water Conditioning System Marketing Type Analysis11.Consumers Analysis of Water Conditioning System12.AppendixAuthor ListDisclosure SectionResearch MethodologyData SourceAbout Us:Orian Research is one of the most comprehensive collections of market intelligence reports on the World Wide Web. Our reports repository boasts of over 500000+ industry and country research reports from over 100 top publishers. We continuously update our repository so as to provide our clients easy access to the world's most complete and current database of expert insights on global industries, companies, and products. We also specialize in custom research in situations where our syndicate research offerings do not meet the specific requirements of our esteemed clients.Contact Us:Ruwin MendezVice President  Global Sales & Partner RelationsOrian Research ConsultantsUS: +1 (832) 380-8827 | UK: +44 0161-818-8027Email: info@orianresearch.comWebsite:Follow Us on LinkedIn:
Hopewell Culture Cache of Prehistoric Artifacts Soars Past Estimate, Sells for $162,000 on Bidsquare

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The cache was one of 382 lots offered in the July 28th auction from the estate of Art Gerber, a giant in the prehistoric artifact world. Collectors gathered to get a glimpse at a portion of the legendary collection and vie for a chance to take home a piece of history.New York, NY, August 7, 2018 -- One of the most significant assemblages of Hopewell Culture prehistoric art ever collected more than doubled its high estimate selling for $162,000 on bidsquare.com during Cowan's Auctions' Part I of the Collection of Art Gerber: Ancient Art of the Eastern Woodlands auction. The cache was one of 382 lots offered in the July 28, 2018 auction from the estate of famed collector Art Gerber. Gerber was a giant in the prehistoric artifact world and collectors gathered to get a glimpse at a portion of the legendary collection and vie for the chance to take home a piece of history.Art would have loved today, said Danica Farnand, Cowans Director of American Indian & Prehistoric Art. Yes, he would have been pleased with the hammer prices, but I think what he would have really loved was seeing all these collectors marveling at his lifes work and sharing stories about him. The whole day was really a celebration of his life.The Collection of Art Gerber is a tangible 8,000-year historical record of human life along the Ohio River. Gerbers entire life is inextricably linked to the Mighty Ohio. From his birth in Evansville, Indiana, to his childhood home in Cannelton, Indiana, to his professional career in Tell City, Indiana, Gerber spent his entire life hunting the Ohio River Valley for his next great discovery.The Hopewell Culture cache was Gerbers crowned jewel. Discovered very near the Ohio River directly across from the city of Owensboro, Kentucky, it is arguably one of the most significant and finest Hopewell assemblages ever found in the state of Indiana. The cache features 19 items highlighted by a magnificent 11-inch Hopewell Ross blade from Mill Creek chert. Blades of this size are unusual for the region and none have been found in such remarkable condition.Theres no question that what initially draws collectors attention is this incredible blade, said Farnand. But all 19 pieces were found together and have remained together since the moment of their discovery. You just dont see that in the prehistoric artifact world, which is why we saw that bidding war today.Floor, phone and online bidders battled for the cache for over 10 minutes. Opening at $20,000, bidding was fast and furious as the lot quickly reached its low estimate of $50,000. The bids flew back and forth before the Bidsquare bidder emerged victorious pushing the total sale price to $162,000.The July 28 auction represented the first of three auctions of the unrivaled Collection of Art Gerber from Cowan's Auctions. Part II will occur on Saturday, December 8.About Bidsquare:Bidsquare is a curated platform where collectors can discover and bid on rare and authentic fine art and antiques from leading auction houses and dealers. Bidsquare is the destination for individuals and collectors seeking exceptional, one-of-a-kind pieces, with new, unique property added every day. Visitto view all auctions.Bidsquare is a curated platform where collectors can discover and bid on rare and authentic fine art and antiques from leading auction houses and dealers. Bidsquare is the destination for individuals and collectors seeking exceptional, one-of-a-kind pieces, with new, unique property added every day. Visitto view all auctions.Contact:Diana ArandBidsquare.com1412 Broadway, 21st floorNew York, NY 10018800-657-0092dianaarand@bidsquare.com
Global Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Market to 2022| Hanwha Chemical Corp, Yara International ASA, CF Industries Holdings Inc, Eurochem Group And Olin Corp

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Albany, NY, 7th August : Recent research and the current scenario as well as future market potential of "Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing: Global Markets to 2022" globally.Global inorganic chemicals market is positive with significant growth potential for caustic soda and chlorine. There is increased demand for caustic soda and soda ash due to increased demand for glass and paper products, rising demand for food products and increasing demand for cosmetic products is driving the inorganic chemicals market.Get PDF for more Professional and Technical insights @The inorganic chemicals market reached a value of nearly REDACTED in 2017 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of REDACTED to nearly REDACTED by 2022.The inorganic chemicals market is concentrated with a few large players dominating the market. Major players in the market are Hanwha Chemical Corp., Yara International ASA, CF Industries Holdings, Inc., Eurochem Group, Olin Corp. and others.Nitrogen compounds accounted for the largest share of the inorganic chemicals market in 2017 at READCTED. The highest growth is projected to come from soda ash, which is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of REDACTED. Major factors included increasing demand for these products from end user industries such as papers, fertilizers and personal care products.Asia Pacific is the largest inorganic chemicals market, accounting for READCTED of the global market. It was followed by North America and Western Europe region. Going forward, Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth in the inorganic chemicals market, estimated at grow at a CAGR of READCTED,followed by South America which is expected to grow at a CAGR of READCTED.China is the largest market in terms of value and in the inorganic chemicals market. China and India are forecasted to have the fastest growth, growing at a CAGR of READCTED and READCTED, respectively.View Complete TOC with tables & Figures @The market is challenged by restraints such as rising trade protectionism and growing popularity of organic farming and erratic rainfall due to global warming.Report ScopeThis research report categorizes the inorganic chemicals market by type include caustic soda, chlorine, soda ash, titanium dioxide, nitrogen compounds, phosphorus compounds and sulphuric acid and sulfates.Report Includes- 98 data tables- Country specific data and analysis for USA, China, Spain, Italy, France, India, Japan, Russia, Brazil, UK and Australia- Discussion about effect of increasing demand for glass and paper products, food products and cosmetic products to the growth of inorganic chemicals market- Description of major trends shaping the inorganic chemicals manufacturing industry- A look into regulatory environment, new products and advancements, and current strategies within the industry- Profiles of the major players in the market, including CF Industries Holdings, Inc., Eurochem Group, Hanwha Chemical Corp., Olin Corp., and Yara International ASATable of ContentsChapter 1 IntroductionStudy Goals and ObjectivesReasons for Doing This StudyScope of ReportInformation SourcesMethodologyGeographic BreakdownAnalyst's CredentialsRelated BCC Research ReportsChapter 2 Summary and HighlightsChapter 3 Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Market OverviewInorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Market CharacteristicsChlor-AlkaliSoda AshTitanium DioxidePhosphorus CompoundsNitrogen CompoundsSulfuric Acid and SulfatesInorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Market Size and GrowthHistoric Market GrowthForecast Market GrowthBrowse Report @Global Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Market, by SegmentGlobal Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Market Historic and Forecast, by Segment, 2013-2022Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Market Trends and StrategiesIncreasing Use of Nano Titanium DioxideMercury Cell Technology Phase-Out in Chlor-Alkali ProductionResearchMoz is the one stop online destination to find and buy market research reports & Industry Analysis. We fulfill all your research needs spanning across industry verticals with our huge collection of market research reports. We provide our services to all sizes of organizations and across all industry verticals and markets. Our Research Coordinators have in-depth knowledge of reports as well as publishers and will assist you in making an informed decision by giving you unbiased and deep insights on which reports will satisfy your needs at the best price.Mr. Nachiket Ghumare,ResearchMoz,90 State Street, Albany NY, United States,Tel: +1-518-621-2074,USA-Canada Toll Free: 866-997-4948,Email: sales@researchmoz.us,Follow me on :
Connected Car Ecosystem: Industry Opportunities, Challenges, Strategies & Forecasts 2016 - 2030

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Latest research study and overview on "The Connected Car Ecosystem: 2016 - 2030 - Opportunities, Challenges, Strategies & Forecasts"The growing proliferation of embedded in-vehicle connectivity and smartphone integration platforms has made connected cars one of the fastest growing segments of the IoT (Internet of Things) market. Keen to establish recurring post-sale service revenue streams, all major automotive OEMs are investing in connected car programs. Other ecosystem players, such as mobile operators and telematics specialists, are also vying to gain a larger share of the opportunity. In fact, many mobile operators have expanded beyond their traditional role as connectivity providers, to offer end-to-end connected car platforms directly to automotive OEMs and aftermarket suppliers.By the end of 2016, SNS Research estimates that connected car services will account for $14 Billion in annual revenue, driven by a host of applications, including but not limited to infotainment, navigation, fleet management, remote diagnostics, automatic crash notification, enhanced safety, UBI (Usage Based Insurance), traffic management and semi-autonomous driving.Get the sample copy of report @The ""Connected Car Ecosystem: 2016  2030  Opportunities, Challenges, Strategies & Forecasts"" report presents an in-depth assessment of the connected car ecosystem including OEM connected car programs, enabling technologies, key trends, market drivers, challenges, applications, collaborative initiatives, regulatory landscape, standardization, opportunities, future roadmap, value chain, ecosystem player profiles and strategies. The report also presents market size forecasts for connected car services from 2016 through to 2030. The forecasts are segmented for 3 connectivity models, 5 application categories, 5 regions and 17 leading countries.The report comes with an associated Excel datasheet suite covering quantitative data from all numeric forecasts presented in the report.The report covers the following topics:Connected car ecosystemMarket drivers and barriersEnabling technologies and key trendsConnected car programs and platform offeringsEmbedded, tethered and integrated connectivity modelsAnalysis of key applications and opportunitiesRegulatory landscape, collaborative initiatives and standardizationIndustry roadmap and value chainProfiles and strategies of over 240 leading ecosystem players, including automotive OEMs, mobile operators and connected car platform specialistsStrategic recommendations for ecosystem playersMarket analysis and forecasts from 2016 till 2030Browse full report TOC @Forecast SegmentationConnected car installed base and service revenue forecasts are provided for each of the following submarkets and their subcategories:Connectivity ModelEmbeddedTetheredIntegratedApplication CategoryCommunications, Infotainment & PaymentsNavigation & Location ServicesVehicle ManagementSafety & SecurityDriver Assistance & Autonomous DrivingEmbedded Car ConnectionsGSMCDMA-2000W-CDMATD-SCDMALTE & 5GSatellite & Other TechnologiesTethered Car ConnectionsWirelessWirelineIntegrated Car ConnectionsApple CarPlayAndroid AutoMirrorLinkOthersRegional MarketsAsia PacificEuropeMiddle East & AfricaNorth AmericaLatin & Central AmericaCountry MarketsBrazilCanadaChinaEgyptFranceGermanyIndiaIndonesiaItalyJapanMexicoRussiaSaudi ArabiaSouth AfricaSouth KoreaUKUSAThe report provides answers to the following key questions:How big is the connected car opportunity?What trends, challenges and barriers are influencing its growth?How is the ecosystem evolving by segment and region?What will the market size be in 2020 and at what rate will it grow?Which countries and submarkets will see the highest percentage of growth?Who are the key market players and what are their strategies?How will connected cars drive investments in Big Data, cloud computing, analytics and other technologies?What are the growth prospects of embedded, tethered and integrated connectivity options?How do government mandates and initiatives impact the adoption of embedded connectivity?What are the future prospects of self-driving cars and cooperative V2X applications?Do LTE and 5G technologies pose a threat to the 802.11p standard for V2X communications?What strategies should automotive OEMs, mobile operators and connected car platform specialists adopt to remain competitive?The report has the following key findings:By the end of 2016, SNS Research estimates that connected car services will account for $14 Billion in annual revenue, driven by a host of applications. The market is further expected to grow at a CAGR of 31% between 2016 and 2020.Although the market is presently dominated by infotainment and telematics, connected driver assistance systems and autonomous driving applications will witness the highest growth rate over the next four years.Multiple automotive OEMs are beginning to integrate in-vehicle payment capabilities with their connected car platforms to make it possible for drivers to pay for services such as fuel, parking, food and tolling, without having to leave their vehicles.The connected car ecosystem continues to consolidate, with larger players investing in acquisitions to increase their market share, technical capabilities, revenue and geographic reach. For example, semiconductor giant Intel has made a spate of acquisitions including Altera, Yogitech, Arynga and Itseez, to bolster its IoT and connected car capabilities.Many mobile operators have expanded beyond their traditional role as connectivity providers, to offer end-to-end connected car platforms directly to automotive OEMs and aftermarket suppliers.List of Companies Mentioned21ViaNet Group3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project)Abalta TechnologiesAccentureAcuraAeris CommunicationsAgeroAirbiquityAlcatel-LucentAlibaba GroupAlliance of Automobile ManufacturersAllstate Insurance CompanyAlpine ElectronicsAltera CorporationAmdocsAmerica MovilAnalog DevicesAppCarouselAppDirectAppleArada SystemsARIB (Association of Radio Industries and Businesses, Japan)AryngaAssociation of Global AutomakersAT&TAT&T MobilityATIS (Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions, U.S.)Atmel CorporationAtosAudiAutologicAutomatic LabsAutoNavi SoftwareAutonet MobileAutotalksAVnu AllianceAzugaB&B ElectronicsBaiduBlackBerryBMWBoschBosch SoftTecBosch Software InnovationsBouygues GroupBouygues TelecomBright BoxBroadcomBYD AutoC2C-CC (CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium)CadillacCalAmpCCC (Car Connectivity Consortium)CCSA (China Communications Standards Association)CEN (European Committee for Standardization)CenNavi TechnologiesChangan Automobile CompanyCheryChina MobileChina TelecomChina TSPChina UnicomCisco SystemsClarionClaroCloudCarCloudMadeCobra Automotive TechnologiesCohda WirelessComtech TCSConnect OneConnexisContinentalCovisintCox AutomotiveCoyote SystemsCPIC (China Pacific Insurance Group)CSRCubic TelecomDaimlerdeCartaDelphiDENATRAN (National Road Transport Department, Brazil)Denso CorporationDGEDigi InternationalDigiaDongfeng Motor CorporationDT (Deutsche Telekom)DTSEDGE3 TechnologiesElektrobiteMapgoEricssonETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute)European CommissionFAW Group CorporationFCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles)FEV GroupFlextronics InternationalFord Motor CompanyFranklin WirelessFreescale SemiconductorFrontier SiliconFuji Heavy IndustriesFujitsu SemiconductorFujitsu TenGAIG (Guangzhou Automobile Industry Group)GarminGeely (Zhejiang Geely Holding Group)GemaltoGENIVI AllianceGettGM (General Motors Company)GoogleGSMAH&D WirelessHarman International IndustriesHawtai Motor GroupHDS (Hitachi Data Systems)HEREHitachiHonda Motor CompanyHTC CorporationHuaweiHughes TelematicsHyundai Motor CompanyiBiquity Digital CorporationIBMIEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)iHeartMediaIMS (Intelligent Mechatronic Systems)Infineon TechnologiesInfinitiIngenieINRIXINSYS MicroelectronicsIntel CorporationInthinc Technology SolutionsInventek Systemsip-labelISO (International Organization for Standardization)ITS America (Intelligent Transportation Society of America)ITS Australia (Intelligent Transport Systems Australia)ITS JapanITU (International Telecommunications Union)iWOW ConnectionsIxonosJaguar Land RoverJasper TechnologiesJohnson ControlsJVCKENWOOD CorporationKapsch TrafficComKaramba SecurityKDDI CorporationKia Motors CorporationKORE Wireless GroupKPNKT CorporationLairdLantronixLesswireLexusLG ElectronicsLG GroupLG UplusLincoln Motor CompanyLinux FoundationLoJackLS ResearchMagellanMagneti MarelliMahindra and MahindraMasterCardMazda Motor CorporationMercedes BenzMIC (MiTAC International Corporation)MichelinMicrochip TechnologyMicrosoft CorporationMicrotronicsMinacsMio TechnologyMitsubishi Electric CorporationMitsubishi Motors CorporationMobileyeModacomMojioMOSTCO (MOST Cooperation)MovistarMulti-Tech SystemsMurata ManufacturingNEC CorporationNeowayNetsizeNissan Motor CompanyNNGNokiaNovatel WirelessNoveroNTT DoCoMoNuance CommunicationsnuTonomyNvidia CorporationNXP SemiconductorsOAA (Open Automotive Alliance)Octo TelematicsON SemiconductorOneM2MOnStar CorporationOPEN Alliance SIG (Special Industry Group)OpenCarOpenmaticsOption NVOracleOrangeORBCOMMPanasonic CorporationPandora MediaParrotPateo CorporationPeikerPioneer CorporationPivotal SoftwarePowermat TechnologiesPSA Peugeot CitroenQiMing Information TechnologyQNX Software SystemsQoros AutomotiveQt CompanyQuake GlobalQualcommQuectel Wireless SolutionsRacoWirelessRealVNCRedbendRedpine SignalsRenault (Groupe Renault)Renesas Electronics CorporationRobert Bosch Car MultimediaRogers CommunicationsROHM SemiconductorRSA Insurance GroupRTX A/SSAIC Motor CorporationSamsung ElectronicsSAPSavariScaniaSEATSeeing MachinesSierra WirelessSilicon LaboratoriesSIMCom Wireless SolutionsSiriusXM RadioSK GroupSK TelecomSkoda AutoSkyWave Mobile CommunicationsSoftBank CorporationSoftBank Mobile CorporationSony CorporationSony Mobile CommunicationsSpirent CommunicationsSpireonSprint CorporationSTMicroelectronicsSubaruSummit TechSuzuki Motor CorporationSymphony TelecaSynchronoss TechnologiesTagStationTata MotorsTech MahindraTele2Telecom ItaliaTelefonicaTelenavTelenor ConnexionTelenor GroupTeletrac Navman GroupTelit CommunicationsTelogisTelstra CorporationTesla MotorsTEXATI (Texas Instruments)TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association, U.S.)TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile)TimaNetworksTobii TechnologyTomTomTomTom TelematicsToshiba CorporationToumaz GroupTowerSecToyota Motor CorporationTRA (UAE Telecommunications Regulatory Authority)TrafficwareT-SystemsTTA (Telecommunications Technology Association, Korea)TTC (Telecommunication Technology Committee, Japan)U.S. DOT (Department of Transport)U.S. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)UberU-bloxUbridgeUIEvolutionValeoVehconVeniamVerizon CommunicationsVerizon TelematicsVerizon WirelessVinliVisaVisteon CorporationVodafone AutomotiveVodafone GroupVoiceBox Technologies CorporationVolkswagenVolvoW3C (World Wide Web Consortium)Wind RiverWireless LogicWirelessCarWISeKeyWorldlineXilinxXtimeYgomiYogitechZF FriedrichshafenZTEZubieCountires CoveredBrazilCanadaChinaEgyptFranceGermanyIndiaIndonesiaItalyJapanMexicoRussiaSaudi ArabiaSouth AfricaSouth KoreaUKUSAWe have built a 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From Fortune 500 companies to SMEs, our clients place their trust in us for reports from verified publishers.State Tower90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207United StatesToll Free: 866-997-4948(USA-Canada)Tel: +1-518-621-2074E: sales@marketresearchreports.biz
Global Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Market 2018 by Key Players - Cleveron AS, NeoPost Group, Winnsen Industry Co., Ltd

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The Study discussed brief overview and in-depth assessment on Global Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Market 2018 including key market trends,upcoming technologies,industry drivers,challenges,regulatory policies,with key company profiles and overall competitive scenario.The market study can help them to make critical business decisions on production techniques,raw materials procurement,and to increase industry chain cycle of market across the globe.This report studies the global Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals market size, industry status and forecast, competition landscape and growth opportunity. This research report categorizes the global Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals market by companies, region, type and end-use industry.Get Sample of Global Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Market 2018 Report @In 2017, the global Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals market size was million US$ and it is expected to reach million US$ by the end of 2025, with a CAGR of during 2018-2025.This report focuses on the global top players, coveredSmartbox Ecommerce Solutions Pvt. Ltd.Cleveron ASNeoPost GroupWinnsen Industry Co., Ltd.TZ LimitedByBox Holdings LimitedInPost Ltd.Bell and Howell, LLCENGY CompanyKEBA AGEnquiry About Global Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Market 2018 Report @Market segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaMarket segment by Type, the product can be split intoIndoorOutdoorBrowse Global Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Market 2018 Report @Market segment by Application, split intoGovernmentRetailShipping & LogisticsOthersSome of Major Point From TOC of Global Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Market 2018Chapter One: Industry Overview of Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals1.1 Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Market Overview1.1.1 Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Product Scope1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook1.2 Global Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Market Size and Analysis by Regions (2013-2018)1.2.1 United States1.2.2 Europe1.2.3 China1.2.4 Japan1.2.5 Southeast Asia1.2.6 India1.3 Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Market by Type1.3.1 Indoor1.3.2 Outdoor1.4 Automated Parcel Delivery Terminals Market by End Users/Application1.4.1 Government1.4.2 Retail1.4.3 Shipping & Logistics1.4.4 OthersContinued...About Us:Orbis Research (orbisresearch.com) is a single point aid for all your market research requirements. We have vast database of reports from the leading publishers and authors across the globe. We specialize in delivering customized reports as per the requirements of our clients. We have complete information about our publishers and hence are sure about the accuracy of the industries and verticals of their specialization. This helps our clients to map their needs and we produce the perfect required market research study for our clients.Contact Us:Hector CostelloSenior Manager  Client Engagements4144N Central Expressway,Suite 600, Dallas,Texas - 75204, U.S.A.Phone No.: +1 (214) 884-6817; +912064101019Email ID: sales@orbisresearch.com
Food Glycerin Market 2018 Global Analysis By Key Players  Wilmar Oleochemicals, P&G Chemicals, Emery Oleochemicals, Vantage Oleochemicals, PMC Biogenix

Global Food Glycerin Market

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Global Food Glycerin MarketDescription:-Wiseguyreports.Com Adds Global Food Glycerin Market 2018: Global Analysis, Industry Size, Share, Trends, Application Analysis and Growth Opportunities Forecast to 2025 To Its Research DatabaseKey Content of ChaptersPart 1:Terminology Definition, Industry Chain, Industry Dynamics & Regulations and Global Market OverviewPart 2:Upstream (Raw Materials / Components) & Manufacturing (Procurement Methods & Channels and Cost),Major Regional Production Overview and Trade FlowPart 3:Product Segment Overview and Market StatusPart 4:Application / End-User Segment Overview and Market StatusPart 5:Region Segment Overview and Market StatusPart 6:Product & Application Segment Production & Demand by RegionPart 7:Market Forecast by Product, Application & RegionPart 8:Company information, Products & Services and Business Operation (Sales, Cost, Margin etc.)Part 9:Market Competition and Environment for New EntrantsPart 10:ConclusionRequest a sample copy @Market Segment as follows:Key CompaniesWilmar OleochemicalsJIANGSU JINXIN GLYCEROL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTDP&G ChemicalsEmery OleochemicalsCargillAemetisTGCOleonKemXSakamoto Yakuhin kogyo Co., Ltd.Vance BioenergyKLK OLEOArcher Daniels MidlandVantage OleochemicalsVVFPMC BiogenixTwin Rivers TechnologiesLDCAIPeter Cremer North AmericaOwensboro GrainMarket by TypeFor PreservativeFor MoisturizerMarket by ApplicationFruit juice, VinegarWineCured products, Dried meat, SausagesPreserved fruitTobaccoOthersTable of ContentPart 1 Industry Overview (200 USD)1.1 Food Glycerin Industry1.1.1 Market Development1.1.2 Terminology Definition in the Report1.1.2.1 Production1.1.2.2 Demand1.1.2.3 Sales Revenue1.1.2.4 Ex-factory Price & Sales Price1.1.2.5 Cost1.1.2.6 Gross Margin1.2 Products & Services Scope1.3 Industry Chain1.4 Industry Dynamics & Regulations1.5 Global Market OverviewPart 2 Upstream & Production (200 USD)2.1 Raw Materials / Components2.2 Procurement Methods & Channels2.3 Cost Structure & Manufacturing2.4 Industry Capacity2.5 Production Distribution by Geography2.5.1 Production in Major Regions / Countries2.5.2 Trade Flow OverviewPart 3 Product Segment (400 USD)3.1 Introduction by Type3.1.1 For Preservative3.1.2 For Moisturizer3.2 Market StatusPart 4 Application / End-User Segment (400 USD)4.1 Introduction by Application4.1.1 Fruit juice, Vinegar4.1.2 Wine4.1.3 Cured products, Dried meat, Sausages4.1.4 Preserved fruit4.1.5 Tobacco4.1.6 Others4.2 Market StatusPart 5 Regional Market (600 USD)5.1 Market Overview5.2 by Region5.2.1 North America5.2.1.1 United States Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.1.2 Canada Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.1.3 Mexico Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2 Europe5.2.2.1 Germany Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.2 UK Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.3 France Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.4 Italy Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.5 Spain Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.6 Netherlands Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.7 Poland Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.8 Belgium Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.9 Sweden Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.10 Austria Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.11 Denmark Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.12 Switzerland Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.2.13 Russia Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.3 Asia-Pacific5.2.3.1 China Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.3.2 India Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.3.3 Japan Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.3.4 Korea Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.3.5 Australia Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.3.6 Indonesia Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.3.7 Thailand Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.3.8 Malaysia Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.3.9 Singapore Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.3.10 Philippines Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.4 South America5.2.4.1 Brazil Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.4.2 Argentina Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.4.3 Columbia Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.4.4 Chile Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.4.5 Peru Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.4.6 Puerto Rico Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.4.7 Ecuador Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.5 Middle East5.2.5.1 Saudi Arabia Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.5.2 Iran Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.5.3 UAE Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.5.4 Oman Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.5.5 Kuwait Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.5.6 Iraq Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.5.7 Turkey Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.6 Africa5.2.6.1 South Africa Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.6.2 Egypt Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.6.3 Nigeria Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.6.4 Algeria Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.6.5 Angola Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.6.6 Morocco Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)5.2.6.7 Sudan Market Size and Growth (2015-2018E)Part 6 Market Subdivision (800 USD)6.1 Regional Production6.1.1 Production by Type6.1.1.1 For Preservative Production by Region6.1.1.2 For Moisturizer Production by Region6.1.2 Production by Application6.1.2.1 Fruit juice, Vinegar Production by Region6.1.2.2 Wine Production by Region6.1.2.3 Cured products, Dried meat, Sausages Production by Region6.1.2.4 Preserved fruit Production by Region6.1.2.5 Tobacco Production by Region6.1.2.6 Others Production by Region6.2 Regional Demand6.2.1 Demand by Type6.2.1.1 For Preservative Demand by Region6.2.1.2 For Moisturizer Demand by Region6.2.2 Demand by Application6.2.2.1 Fruit juice, Vinegar Demand by Region6.2.2.2 Wine Demand by Region6.2.2.3 Cured products, Dried meat, Sausages Demand by Region6.2.2.4 Preserved fruit Demand by Region6.2.2.5 Tobacco Demand by Region6.2.2.6 Others Demand by RegionPart 7 Market Forecast (200 USD)7.1 Global Forecast7.2 Forecast by Type7.3 Forecast by Application7.4 Forecast by RegionContinuedBrowse full Report @About Us:Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Contact Us:Wise Guy Research Consultants Pvt Ltdsales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)Maharashtra, Pune  411028
Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Market Size, Share, Trends Analysis Report By Product, By Application, By Region  Global Forecast 2018-2023

Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Market Size, Share, Trends Analysis Report

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UpMarketResearch offers a latest published report on Global Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Market Analysis and Forecast 2018-2023 delivering key insights and providing a competitive advantage to clients through a detailed report. The report contains 132 pages which highly exhibits on current market analysis scenario, upcoming as well as future opportunities, revenue growth, pricing and profitability.Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry research report delivers a close watch on leading competitors with strategic analysis, micro and macro market trend and scenarios, pricing analysis and a holistic overview of the market situations in the forecast period. It is a professional and a detailed report focusing on primary and secondary drivers, market share, leading segments and geographical analysis. Further, key players, major collaborations, merger & acquisitions along with trending innovation and business policies are reviewed in the report. The report contains basic, secondary and advanced information pertaining to the Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry global status and trend, market size, share, growth, trends analysis, segment and forecasts from 2018 - 2023.The scope of the report extends from market scenarios to comparative pricing between major players, cost and profit of the specified market regions. The numerical data is backed up by statistical tools such as SWOT analysis, BCG matrix, SCOT analysis, PESTLE analysis and so on. The statistics are represented in graphical format for a clear understanding on facts and figures.The generated report is firmly based on primary research, interviews with top executives, news sources and information insiders. Secondary research techniques are implemented for better understanding and clarity for data analysis.Get Exclusive PDF Sample Copy of This Report @The report for Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes market analysis & forecast 2018-2023 is segmented into Product Segment, Application Segment & Major players.Region-wise Analysis Global Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Market covers: North America Europe China Japan Southeast Asia IndiaThe Report covers in-depth analysis as follows: Chapter 1 Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Market Overview Chapter 2 Global Economic Impact on Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Chapter 3 Global Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Competition by Manufacturers Chapter 4 Global Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Production, Revenue (Value) by Region (2013-2018) Chapter 5 Global Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Supply (Production), Consumption, Export, Import by Regions (2013-2018) Chapter 6 Global Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Production, Revenue (Value), Price Trend by Type Chapter 7 Global Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Analysis by Application Chapter 8 Global Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Manufacturers Analysis Chapter 9 Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Manufacturing Cost Analysis Chapter 10 Industrial Chain, Sourcing Strategy and Downstream Buyers Chapter 11 Marketing Strategy Analysis, Distributors/Traders Chapter 12 Market Effect Factors Analysis Chapter 13 Global Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Forecast (2018-2023)Buy Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Market analysis & forecast 2018-2023 Report along with complete TOCSpecialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Market Analysis and Forecast 2018-2023 report helps the clients to take business decisions and to understand strategies of major players in the industry. The report also calls for market-driven results deriving feasibility studies for client needs. UpMarketResearch ensures qualified and verifiable aspects of market data operating in the real-time scenario. The analytical studies are conducted ensuring client needs with a thorough understanding of market capacities in the real-time scenario.Key Reasons to Purchase: To gain insightful analyses of the market and have a comprehensive understanding of the Global Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes Industry Analysis and Forecast 2018-2023 and its commercial landscape Learn about the market strategies that are being adopted by your competitors and leading organizations To understand the future outlook and prospects for Specialty Pressure-Sensitive Tapes market analysis and forecast 2018-2023.For More Information Please VisitCustomization of the Report:UpMarketResearch provides free customization of reports as per your need. This report can be personalized to meet your requirements. Get in touch with our sales team, who will guarantee you to get a report that suits your necessities.About UpMarketResearch:UpMarketResearch () is a leading distributor of market research report with more than 800+ global clients. As a market research company, we take pride in equipping our clients with insights and data that holds the power to truly make a difference to their business. Our mission is singular and well-defined  we want to help our clients envisage their business environment so that they are able to make informed, strategic and therefore successful decisions for themselves.Contact Info:Name: Alex MathewsEmail: Alex@upmarketresearch.comOrganization: UpMarketResearchAddress: 500 East E Street, Ontario, CA 91764, United States
Furniture Logistics Market 2018 Global Share,Trend,Segmentation and Forecast to 2025

Furniture Logistics Market

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WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On  Furniture Logistics Market 2018 Global Share,Trend,Segmentation and Forecast to 2025.Furniture Logistics Market 2018-2025Description:This report provides in depth study of "Furniture Logistics Market" using SWOT analysis i.e. Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threat to the organization. The Furniture Logistics Market report also provides an in-depth survey of key players in the market which is based on the various objectives of an organization such as profiling, the product outline, the quantity of production, required raw material, and the financial health of the organization.This report studies the global Furniture Logistics market status and forecast, categorizes the global Furniture Logistics market size (value & volume) by manufacturers, type, application, and region. This report focuses on the top manufacturers in North America, Europe, Japan, China and other regions (India, Southeast Asia, Central & South America, and Middle East & Africa).This report provides valuable information for companies like manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, traders, customers, investors and individuals who have interests in this industry.Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comFurniture Logistics refer to the furniture industry uses logistics for the management of the way resources are acquired, stored, and moved to different end-users. The use of logistics provides the furniture industry with a continuous supply of various furniture from suppliers and distributors in different locations. At times, a company might choose to outsource its logistics operations if it is deemed cost effective.The transportation segment to account for a market share of more than 40%. Transportation is a service that requires high investment and expertise; therefore, many companies outsource this service to other providers to bring down to the total cost of operation. Advantages like freight forwarding, project logistics, cargo insurance, network planning and optimization, and customs brokerage will bolster the adoption of transportation services during the forecast period.The European region to dominate the global market for furniture logistics during the predicted period. This region currently accounts for a market share of more than 34% and is envisaged to retain its dominating hold over the market owing to the populaces augmented demand for luxury furniture with appealing designs.In 2017, the global Furniture Logistics market size was xx million US$ and it is expected to reach xx million US$ by the end of 2025, with a CAGR of xx% during 2018-2025.This report focuses on the global top players, coveredDeutsche Post DHLDB SchenkerKuehne + NagelC.H. RobinsonUPSAgilityAllcargo LogisticsCEVA LogisticsDamcoExpeditors InternationalGatiHub GroupImperial LogisticsJ.B. HuntKerry LogisticsLogwinNippon ExpressPanalpinaRyderSchneider LogisticsSinotransWincantonMarket segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaMarket segment by Type, the product can be split intoTransportationWarehousing and DistributionMarket segment by Application, split intoFurniture FactoryFurniture DistributorKey StakeholdersFurniture Logistics ManufacturersFurniture Logistics Distributors/Traders/WholesalersFurniture Logistics Subcomponent ManufacturersIndustry AssociationDownstream VendorsAsk Query @Table Of ContentsMajor key points Covered:Global Furniture Logistics Market Size, Status and Forecast 20251 Industry Overview of Furniture Logistics1.1 Furniture Logistics Market Overview1.1.1 Furniture Logistics Product Scope1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook1.2 Global Furniture Logistics Market Size and Analysis by Regions (2013-2018)1.2.1 United States1.2.2 Europe1.2.3 China1.2.4 Japan1.2.5 Southeast Asia1.2.6 India1.3 Furniture Logistics Market by Type1.3.1 Transportation1.3.2 Warehousing and Distribution1.4 Furniture Logistics Market by End Users/Application1.4.1 Furniture Factory1.4.2 Furniture Distributor2 Global Furniture Logistics Competition Analysis by Players2.1 Furniture Logistics Market Size (Value) by Players (2013-2018)2.2 Competitive Status and Trend2.2.1 Market Concentration Rate2.2.2 Product/Service Differences2.2.3 New Entrants2.2.4 The Technology Trends in Future3 Company (Top Players) Profiles3.1 Deutsche Post DHL3.1.1 Company Profile3.1.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.1.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.1.4 Furniture Logistics Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.2 DB Schenker3.2.1 Company Profile3.2.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.2.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.2.4 Furniture Logistics Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.3 Kuehne + Nagel3.3.1 Company Profile3.3.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.3.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.3.4 Furniture Logistics Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.4 C.H. Robinson3.4.1 Company Profile3.4.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.4.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.4.4 Furniture Logistics Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.5 UPS3.5.1 Company Profile3.5.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.5.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.5.4 Furniture Logistics Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.6 Agility3.6.1 Company Profile3.6.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.6.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.6.4 Furniture Logistics Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.7 Allcargo Logistics3.7.1 Company Profile3.7.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.7.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.7.4 Furniture Logistics Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.8 CEVA Logistics3.8.1 Company Profile3.8.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.8.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.8.4 Furniture Logistics Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.9 Damco3.9.1 Company Profile3.9.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.9.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.9.4 Furniture Logistics Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.10 Expeditors International3.10.1 Company Profile3.10.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.10.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.10.4 Furniture Logistics Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.11 Gati3.12 Hub Group3.13 Imperial Logistics3.14 J.B. Hunt3.15 Kerry Logistics3.16 Logwin3.17 Nippon Express3.18 Panalpina3.19 Ryder3.20 Schneider Logistics3.21 Sinotrans3.22 Wincanton4 Global Furniture Logistics Market Size by Type and Application (2013-2018)4.1 Global Furniture Logistics Market Size by Type (2013-2018)4.2 Global Furniture Logistics Market Size by Application (2013-2018)4.3 Potential Application of Furniture Logistics in Future4.4 Top Consumer/End Users of Furniture Logistics5 United States Furniture Logistics Development Status and Outlook5.1 United States Furniture Logistics Market Size (2013-2018)5.2 United States Furniture Logistics Market Size and Market Share by Players (2013-2018)5.3 United States Furniture Logistics Market Size by Application (2013-2018)Continued..For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028.
Breast Cancer Therapeutics Market : Potential Growth of Domestic Pharmaceutical Companies

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Featuring a largely consolidated vendor landscape where the leading three companies, namely Astra Zeneca, F.Hoffmann-LaRocheLtd., and Novartis AG, collectively accounted for over 93% of the overall market in 2014, the global market for breast cancer therapeutics has remained tough for small players over the years, observes Transparency Market Research in a recent report. The scenario, however, is increasingly changing as the patents of a number of blockbuster drugs from these vendors have either already expired or are soon to expire, allowing the entry of generic drug manufacturers in the market.Request a Brochure of the Report @In the face of these changing dynamics, there has been a surge in strategic collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions, allowing companies to expand their product portfolios, geographical outreach, and consumer bases. Focus on the development of new and more effective drug classes has also increased as companies plough in increased resources into R&D activities in the bid of remaining ahead of competitors.According to the report, the global breast cancer therapeutics market will exhibit an 8.4% CAGR from 2015 to 2023, rising to a revenue opportunity of US$16.21 bn by 2023.North America Market Remains Dominant Contributor of RevenueGeographically, the market in North America accounts for a sizeable chunk in the global market, chiefly owing to a well-established medical insurance structure in key country-wide markets in the region. The region is likely to remain the top-grosser, accounting for over 36.2% of the overall market by the end of the reports forecast period. In terms of drug types, the segment of HER2 inhibitors will emerge as the top-grossing segment over the forecast period as generic drugs are entering the market following the patent expiry of several branded drugs in the category.Increased Global Risk of Breast Cancer Drives Demand for Effective Breast Cancer DrugsOne of the key factors to have driven the demand for breast cancer therapeutics in the past few years is the rising prevalence of breast cancer among women across the globe. Risk of developing a number of cancers, including breast cancer, is also largely said to increase with age. Thus the rising geriatric population globally is also leading to a vast rise in the patient-base for the condition, driving increased demand for effective breast cancer treatments. Studies have also associated breast cancer with patterns such as rise in age of childbearing, high intake of oral contraceptive pills, reduced breast feeding, and undergoing estrogen modifying drug treatments. The rising number of women associated with these behaviors and the consecutive rise in breast cancer cases globally is also expected to drive the market.Enquiry for Discount on this Report @Rise in Population of Obese Women Globally Could Drive MarketMoreover, a significant rise in the global numbers of obese women is also a key factor contributing to the increased rates of breast cancer worldwide, which could drive the market. The market is also benefitting from the rising number of pharmaceutical companies ploughing in increased resources into R&D activities related to breast cancer drugs and a number of new vendors focusing on the manufacture of generic drugs to serve a vast pool of unmet demands across emerging economies. Furthermore, the development of customized companion diagnostic models for patients according to the molecular characteristics of the cancer is expected to provide promising growth opportunities to the market. However, the increased and easy availability of generic drugs in the global market, which has massively increased the level of competition in the market, could hamper its growth to a certain extent.About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.Each TMR syndicated research report covers a different sector  such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, energy, food & beverages, semiconductors, med-devices, consumer goods and technology. These reports provide in-depth analysis and deep segmentation to possible micro levels. With wider scope and stratified research methodology, TMRs syndicated reports strive to provide clients to serve their overall research requirement.Contact UsTransparency Market Research90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Supply Chain Analytics Market by Solution, Deployment Type, Application and Forecast 2018-2025.

Supply Chain Analytics Market

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Market Overview:Supply chain analytics gives a meaningful insight to businesses to take well-informed and accurate decisions regarding supply chain processes after proper analysis of raw data. It improves forecasting and efficiency, lowers operational cost, lowers delivery time, keeps track of data and improves productivity. It helps improve business growth and enhances productivity.The increasing big data is a factor driving market growth. The rising use of cloud computing for data storage and surge in demand for inventory management is fuelling growth of market. Another driver for the market is the need to improve business productivity and supply chain processes by proper supply chain management. Increasing usage of mobile based application solutions are anticipated to create lucrative opportunities for vendors in the market. On the other hand, concerns such as data security, high cost and lack of visibility in businesses is preventing the use of supply chain analytics, affecting market growth. Another factor slowing down market growth is the less of knowledge of supply chain products in developing regions.Request for a sample copy of this report @Market Segmentation:The supply chain analytics market is bifurcated into segments such as solution, deployment type and application.On the basis of solution, the market is segmented into planning and procurement, manufacturing analytics, transportation and logistics analytics, sales and operations analytics and visualization and reporting. In terms of deployment type, the market is divided into two types mainly cloud based and on-premise. On the basis of applications, the market is divided into retail, healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, high technological products and others.Regional Analysis:The market is analysed across regions North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC) and Latin America, Middle East and Africa (LAMEA). North America is rising in this market due to the large number of key players in this region. In April 2018, the Canadian branch of Walmart agreed for a new partnership with FourKites for the development and furthering of the company's supply chain visibility and predictive analytics capabilities. Walmart Canada will use FourKites supply chain platform to track the real time location and predictive shipment times across its Canadian operations that span over 400 stores, a number of distributions centers within the region.View Full Report @Key Players:The key players operating in this market are IBM Corporation, Oracle Corporation, SAP SE, Capgemini, Genpact, MicroStrategy, Kinaxis Inc., Birst Inc., Sage Clarity Systems and SAS Institute Inc.About Us:We at Garner Insights.com provide a comprehensive analysis by providing in-depth reports of the various market verticals. Our Mission is to provide a detailed analysis of the vast markets worldwide backed by rich data. Decision makers can now rely on our well-defined data gathering methods to get the correct and accurate market forecasting along with detailed analysis.Contact Us:Kevin ThomasContact No: +1 513 549 5911 (US)+44 203 318 2846 (UK)Email: sales@garnerinsights.com
Alginates Market Research, Trend, Growth, Market Penetration, Top Key Players Analysis and Forecast 2018 to 2023

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Market Overview:Sodium alginate is widely used in various industries including food, textile printing and pharmaceutical. Dental impression material utilizes alginate as its means of gelling. Alginate is present in the cell walls of brown algae, as the calcium, magnesium and sodium salts of alginic acid. Alginates are refined from brown seaweeds. A wide variety of brown seaweeds of the phylum Phaeophyceae are harvested globally and converted into raw material, commonly known as sodium alginate.The use of the alginate in food & beverage industry is legalized by major regulatory agencies including FDA and European Commission which drives its demand. The growth of food & beverage industry in Asia Pacific owing to rise in population is anticipated to boost the demand of alginates in this region. Alginate is mainly used in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of controlled release drugs due to superior product performance. Therefore, the growth of pharmaceutical industry will have a positive impact on the growth of alginate market. Moreover, increasing application of alginate in bakery and confectionery will propel the growth of alginate market.Receive a Sample Report @Latest Industry Updates:Nov 2017 Algaia S.A. introduces Satialgine DVA, a next-generation seaweed extract ingredient for dairy and non-dairy desserts. This alginate line provides a unique rich and creamy texture in desserts such as low-fat dairy flans.May 2017 Algaia, S.A., and AIDP, Inc. announce their entry into a distribution partnership to market Algaia's alginates and other specialty marine-based solutions to customers in Canada, USA and Mexico.March 2017 DuPont acquired FMCs health and nutrition business and divested a part of their crop chemical business. The business of FMCs health and nutrition business included carrageenan, alginates, cellulose and other gums used as food ingredients.Jan 2017 Algaia has bolstered its growth in specialty marine ingredients by completing the acquisition of Cargills Alginate business and manufacturing plant.Top Key Players Analysis:With the entry of industry players in the Alginate segment, a trend of solid, volume- driven growth has been observed in the market. Key players in the Alginate market are focusing on expansions, acquisitions, mergers and new product launches. Acquisition is the main focus of the competitors in order to expand their business and increase their market base. R&D and product innovations are driving the growth of the market. There is continuous efforts by the key players to innovate their product offerings in the market.The key players profiled in Alginate market are Ingredients Solutions Inc. (U.S.), Cargill (U.S.), P.L. Thomas & Co. (U.S.), Ingredion Incorporated (U.S.), CP Kelco (U.S.), Foodchem International Corporation (China), Kimica (Japan)Market Segments:The global Alginate market has been divided into Type, Distribution Channel, Form and Region.On The Basis Of Type: Laminaria, Macrocystis, Ascophyllum, Lessonia, Durvillaea, Ecklonia and othersOn The Basis Of Function: Thickeners, Stabilizers, Emulsifiers, Acidity Regulators & OthersOn the Basis of Application: Food and Beverages, Biofuels, Textile Industry, Paper and Pulp, Pharmaceuticals and OthersOn The Basis Of Region: Europe, North America, Asia Pacific and ROW.Access Report Details @Regional Analysis:Alginate Market is segmented into Europe, APAC, North America and Rest of the World (RoW). APEJ is expected to be the fastest growing region over the forecasted period. The key players of alginate market are dominantly present in Europe which is driving the growth of the market in this region. The richness of raw materials in Chile and Norway supports the production growth.The consumption of the product in Asia Pacific is expected to rise due to the rapid development of the textile and food & beverage industry. The penetration of the product in the pharmaceutical industry in this region is currently limited due to their low usage in the developing economies. However, this creates a potential for the market to expand, which is projected to boost the consumption of the product over the forecast period. In Central and South America, the growing demand for jellies, ice creams, and lactic acid drinks is expected to drive the market growth over the forecast period.About Market Research Future:At Market Research Future (MRFR), we enable our customers to unravel the complexity of various industries through our Cooked Research Report (CRR), Half-Cooked Research Reports (HCRR), Raw Research Reports (3R), Continuous-Feed Research (CFR), and Market Research & Consulting Services.Contact:Market Research FutureOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, Hadapsar,Pune - 411028Maharashtra, India+1 646 845 9312Email: sales@marketresearchfuture.com
Metrology Software Market 2018 Trends and Demand with New Features, Services and Functions by Top Key Players

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As per Global Metrology Software Market report for the period of 2018 to 2023, the Metrology Software Market is likely to reach an approximation of USD xx million at the end of the year 2023 rising at the rate of CAGR xx% throughout the forecast period of 2018 to 2023. The Global Metrology Software Market report covers an exhaustive understanding of the Metrology Software Industry that encompasses various important factors like the product type, sales, revenue, competition market size, regions, and applications.Request a sample of this report @The report further provides a thorough understanding of the Metrology Software Market through value chain analysis and SWOT, which helps the consumer/user/ reader to understand expected trends in the Metrology Software Industry, demand-supply situation in the market, its weaknesses, strengths and various opportunities the market can offer. Statistics and data have been included in the Metrology Software Market to support the information in the report through charts and tables for enhanced readability and to present more engaging content.The Global Metrology Software Market report also discusses, in detail, the regional distribution of the Metrology Software Market, which enables readers to plan an expansion of their business. The regional bifurcation of Metrology Software Market includes data with regard to sales, market share, revenue, growth rate and consumption for each region mentioned below: USA Europe Japan China India Southeast Asia South America South Africa OthersBrowse the complete report @All products mentioned in the global Metrology Software Market report are examined in depth across all parameters which include drifts in the market based on market size, sales revenue, gross margin, price and market share.The following product types are included in the report: Cloud Based Web BasedThe Global Metrology Software Market report mainly targets the outlook of major end users, their status through consumption, market share, and growth rate.The end user applications covered in this report include: Power & Energy Automotive Electronics & Manufacturing Aerospace & Defense Medical and OthersThe Global Metrology Software Market report includes vendor profiles of major players in the Metrology Software Industry which provides the reader with the best view of the competitive landscape. The Global Metrology Software Market report includes market valuation and analysis of performance of the key players along with new product launches.Some of the major companies discussed in the report include: Hexagon Carl Zeiss Nikon Quality Vision International FARO Technologies 3D Systems Metrologic Group InnovMetric GOM Gmbh Renishaw Solex Metrology Perceptron Micro-Vu Corporation Verisurf Software Creaform (AMETEK)Place a purchase order of this report @Major Points from TOC:1 Metrology Software Market Overview2 Global Metrology Software Competitions by Players3 Global Metrology Software Competitions by Types4 Global Metrology Software Competitions by Applications5 Global Metrology Software Production Market Analysis by Regions6 Global Metrology Software Sales Market Analysis by Region7 Imports and Exports Market Analysis8 Global Metrology Software Players Profiles and Sales Data9 Metrology Software Upstream and Downstream Analysis10 Global Metrology Software Market Forecast (2018-2023)11 Research Findings and ConclusionContact sales@orbisresearch.com for more information.About Us:Orbis Research (orbisresearch.com) is a single point aid for all your market research requirements. We have vast database of reports from the leading publishers and authors across the globe. We specialize in delivering customized reports as per the requirements of our clients. We have complete information about our publishers and hence are sure about the accuracy of the industries and verticals of their specialization. This helps our clients to map their needs and we produce the perfect required market research study for our clients.Contact Us:Hector CostelloSenior Manager  Client Engagements4144N Central Expressway,Suite 600, Dallas,Texas - 75204, U.S.A.Phone No.: +1 (214) 884-6817; +912064101019
Agriculture Drone Market 2018 Latest Trends and Future Scope with Global Top Key Players-DJI, 3DR, Trimble Navigation, DroneDeploy, AgEagle, Agribotix, AutoCopter, Delair-Tech, Eagle UAV Services

Agriculture Drone

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The report gives the clear picture of current Agriculture Drone Market scenario and the predicted future of the industry. The report focuses on the basis of market drivers, restraints, growth, trends and forecast for the period of 2018-2025. In addition, the report also maps the market performance by value chain analysis which will help in better product differentiation along with the analysis of each segment in terms of opportunity, market attractiveness index and growth rate.The report Agriculture Drone Market by Key players highlights the essential market dynamics of Agriculture Drone Market sector. The efficiency of this segment has been studied deeply along with the noteworthy challenges and forthcoming growth opportunities and prospective. The report focuses in decision making abilities and supports to make effective counter strategies in order to achieve competitive advantage. Current market scenario of the segment and forecasts of the market situation have also been bounded in this market report.QY Research groups can be relied upon for the most updated and in depth information of the title Global Agriculture Drone Market this is estimated by experts to develop at the most elevated CAGR amid the estimate time frame 2018-2025.Get your Sample Report Copy @The major players covered in this report DJI 3DR Trimble Navigation DroneDeploy AgEagle Agribotix AutoCopter Delair-Tech Eagle UAV Services HoneyComb PrecisionHawk Parrot Yamaha Motor AeroVironmentGeographically, this report studies the key regions, focuses on product sales, value, market share and growth opportunity in these regions, covering United States Europe China Japan Southeast Asia IndiaOn the basis of product, this report displays the production, revenue, price, market share and growth rate of each type, primarily split into Hardware SoftwareOn the basis on the end users/applications, this report focuses on the status and outlook for major applications/end users, sales volume, market share and growth rate for each application, including Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) OEM Technology Solution ProvidersThe study objectives of this report are: To analyze and study the global Agriculture Drone sales, value, status (2013-2017) and forecast (2018-2025); To analyze the top players in North America, Europe, China, Japan, Southeast Asia and India, to study the sales, value and market share of top players in these regions. Focuses on the key Agriculture Drone players, to study the sales, value, market share and development plans in future. Focuses on the global key manufacturers, to define, describe and analyze the market competition landscape, SWOT analysis. To define, describe and forecast the market by type, application and region. To analyze the global and key regions market potential and advantage, opportunity and challenge, restraints and risks. To identify significant trends and factors driving or inhibiting the market growth. To analyze the opportunities in the market for stakeholders by identifying the high growth segments. To strategically analyze each submarket with respect to individual growth trend and their contribution to the market To analyze competitive developments such as expansions, agreements, new product launches, and acquisitions in the market To strategically profile the key players and comprehensively analyze their growth strategies.Get the best Discount in the market here @This market is segmented by Types and Applications. It provides a profound study of the leading players in the market and the prevailing regions in the business, thereby benefiting new entries in the business by proving the most updated insights of the market.At QY Research Groups we render the most authentic and elaborate information for the utmost benefit of our clients.About Us:QY Research Groups is a company that simplifies how analysts and decision makers get industry data for their business. Our unique colossal technology has been developed to offer refined search capabilities designed to exploit the long tail of free market research whilst eliminating irrelevant results. QY Research Groups is the collection of market intelligence products and services on the Web. We offer reports and update our collection daily to provide you with instant online access to the world's most complete and current database of expert insights on global industries, companies, products, and trends.Contact Us:Call: +1-888-236-2744Email: sales@qyresearchgroups.comRoom B1510, Shiji Kemao Building,No.66 Zhongguancun East Road,Haidian District, Beijing,100190, China.
Free acess to vending machines for the homeless

Spire, Spirethoughts, Norway, Underwater, Floating, Tunnel

The 1,190 fjords along Norways coast take travel time to a new level, with several ferry crossings and a tiring 21 hour ride.Therefore, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration (NPRA) proposed the worlds first underwater floating tunnel costing an expected USD25 billion. Submerged in the Norwegian Sea, the tunnel would be similar in to other tunnels  but operate 66 feet below the surface.Will underwater infrastructure revolutionize travel?Spire Research and Consulting was established in 2000 to address a gap in the research and consulting industry in global emerging markets. Unlike most agencies that focus on traditional consumer research, our founders saw a profound need for holistic research projects.Unit 501-502, DLF City Court,DLF Phase III, Sector 24, Gurugram  122002, IndiaTelephone: (91) 124 421 6144Fax: (91) 124 422 1934E-mail: india.info@spireresearch.com
Variable Data Printing Market 2018 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2023

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The global variable data printing (VDP) market is expected to witness a CAGR of 17.62% during the forecast period to reach a market size of US$29.255 billion by 2023, rising from US$11.050 billion in 2017. The market will observe a high growth rate owing to its more desirable printing quality which is both time and cost efficient. Variable data printing also covers the serialized number printing with customized product details. VDP uses highly effective software which accesses data from the smart devices and other digital printing devices to produce high-quality printing as compared to the traditional offset printing. VDP possess several levels which include changing the name or salutation on different copies, versioning, which is more complex as it involves different amounts of customization, and lastly, full variable printing which can alter images and texts for each customer address. The global variable data printing market is anticipated to witness a phenomenal growth in the upcoming years owing to its high adoption rate and rise in digitalization.On the basis of industry, variable data printing market has been segmented as healthcare, food and beverages, personal and homecare, and travel and transport/logistics among others. VDP plays a significant role in the retail sector by compiling the address information of the customers to generate targeted mailing such as a catalog with exact models. Variable data printing also plays a vital role in the healthcare industry because of the increase in demand for serialization of pharmaceutical products. Another reason for VDP preference in pharmaceuticals is the increase in the barcoding. The boost in demand for variable printing among sectors like food and beverage and consumer durables will also contribute significantly in stimulating the market growth of this printing technique.Request a Sample Report @On the basis of geography, variable data printing market is segmented as North America, South America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and Asia-Pacific. North America and Western Europe accounted for the largest market share in 2017 owing to the high technological advancements in the region but are expected to witness a decline in an overall growth in the coming years due to their developed economy. Asia-Pacific is expected to experience the highest growth rate during the forecast period owing to the increasing demand for lifestyle products and consumer goods among the urban population in the developing economies such as India and China. China is expected to witness high growth opportunities in variable printing as it is the leading manufacturer and supplier of printing equipment and materials across the globe.Some of the major players of VDP market include HP Inc., 3M Company, Canon Inc., Xerox Corporation, WS Packaging Group, Inc., Mondi Plc, Quad/Graphics Inc., R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company, Cenveo, Inc., and Avery Dennison Corporation.SegmentationThe variable data printing market is segmented as technology, label type, solution, industry, and geography.By TechnologyElectrophotographyDirect Thermal PrintingThermal Transfer OverprintingInkjetBy Label typeRelease Liner labelLinerless labelBy SolutionHardwareSoftwareServicesBy IndustryHealthcareFood and BeveragePersonal and HomecareTravel and transport/logisticsOthersBy GeographyNorth AmericaSouth AmericaEuropeMiddle East & AfricaAsia-PacificTable of Content1. Introduction1.1. Market Definition1.2. Scope of the study1.3. Currency1.4. Assumptions1.5. Base, and forecast year timeline2. Research Methodology2.1. Research Design2.2. Secondary Sources2.3. Validation3. Key findings of the study4. Market Dynamics4.1. Drivers4.2. Restraints4.3. Opportunities and Market Trends4.4. Market Segmentation4.5. Porters Five Forces Analysis4.5.1. Bargaining Power of Suppliers4.5.2. Bargaining Power of Buyers4.5.3. Threat of New Entrants4.5.4. Threat of Substitutes4.5.5. Competitive Rivalry in the Industry4.6. Industry Value Chain Analysis4.7. Industry Regulations4.8. Scenario Analysis5. Global Variable Data Printing Market Forecast by Technology (US$ billion)5.1. Introduction5.2. Electrophotography5.3. Direct Thermal Printing5.4. Thermal Transfer Overprinting5.5. Inkjet6. Global Variable Data Printing Market Forecast by Label Type (US$ billion)6.1. Introduction6.2. Release Liner Label6.3. Linerless Label7. Global Variable Data Printing Market Forecast by Solution (US$ billion)7.1. Introduction7.2. Hardware7.3. Software7.4. Services8. Global Variable Data Printing Market Forecast by Industry (US$ billion)8.1. Introduction8.2. Healthcare8.3. Food and Beverage8.4. Personal and Homecare8.5. Travel and transport/logistics8.6. Others9. Global Variable Data Printing Market Forecast by Geography (US$ billion)9.1. Introduction9.2. North America9.3. South America9.4. Europe9.5. Middle East and Africa9.6. Asia-Pacific10. Competitive Intelligence10.1. Market Share Analysis10.2. Strategies of Key Players10.3. Recent Investment and Deals11. Company Profiles11.1. HP Inc.11.1.1. Overview11.1.2. Financials11.1.3. Product and Services11.1.4. Key Developments11.2. 3M Company11.2.1. Overview11.2.2. Financials11.2.3. Products and Services11.2.4. Key Developments11.3. Canon Inc.11.3.1. Overview11.3.2. Financials11.3.3. Products and ServicesContinuedAccess Complete Report @ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.ADDRES:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India
Global Machine Translation Market 2018 Key Players: App Tek, Asia Online Pte Ltd, Cloudwords Inc, Lighthouse IP Group, Lingo24 Ltd., Lionbridge Technologies Inc, Lingotek Inc.

Machine Translation Market

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Machine Translation Market:WiseGuyReports.com adds Machine Translation Market 2018 Global Analysis, Growth, Trends and Opportunities Research Report Forecasting to 2025 reports to its database.Executive SummaryGlobal Machine Translation Market to reach USD 1483 million by 2025.Global Machine Translation Market valued approximately USD 435 million in 2016 is anticipated to grow with a healthy growth rate of more than 14.60 % over the forecast period 2017-2025. The major factors driving the Machine Translation market are the growing volume of big data, the need for cost effective translation, and increasing online content. Moreover, globalization is raising the demand for location based content across various industry verticals such as electronics, travel, e-commerce and hospitality. However, the availability of free translation tools may limit the adoption of translation machine. The industry is witnessing a transition from human translators to Machine Translation as is an efficient tool to deliver similar linguistic conversion with significantly lower time and cost. Advances in Machine Translation technology and new implementation approaches including crowdsourcing are expected to reduce the cost of Machine translation while improving its efficiency.The regional analysis of Global Machine Translation Market is considered for the key regions such as Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, Latin America and Rest of the World. North America dominated the industry in 2016, with U.S. alone accounting for over 66.0% of the regional market. The growth is characterized by presence of a large number of service providers and favorable government initiatives. Asia Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit higher growth rate / CAGR over the forecast period 2018-2025.The objective of the study is to define market sizes of different segments & countries in recent years and to forecast the values to the coming eight years. The report is designed to incorporate both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the industry within each of the regions and countries involved in the study. Furthermore, the report also caters the detailed information about the crucial aspects such as driving factors & challenges which will define the future growth of the market. Additionally, the report shall also incorporate available opportunities in micro markets for stakeholders to invest along with the detailed analysis of competitive landscape and product offerings of key players. The detailed segments and sub-segment of the market are explained below:Request Sample Report @By Application:AutomotiveMilitary & DefenceElectronicsITHealthcareBy Technology:RBMTSMTBy Regions:North AmericaS.CanadaEuropeUKGermanyAsia PacificChinaIndiaJapanLatin AmericaBrazilMexicoRest of the WorldFurthermore, years considered for the study are as follows:Historical year  2015, 2016Base year  2017Forecast period  2018 to 2025The industry is seeming to be fairly competitive. Some of the leading market players include App Tek, Asia Online Pte Ltd, Cloudwords Inc, Lighthouse IP Group, Lingo24 Ltd., Lionbridge Technologies Inc, Lingotek Inc., Moravia IT, Pangeanic, ProMT, Raythean BBN Technologiesand so on. Acquisitions and effective mergers are some of the strategies adopted by the key manufacturers. New product launches and continuous technological innovations are the key strategies adopted by the major players.Target Audience of the Global Machine Translation Market in Market Study:Key Consulting Companies & AdvisorsLarge, medium-sized, and small enterprisesVenture capitalistsValue-Added Resellers (VARs)Third-party knowledge providersInvestment bankersInvestorsTable of ContentsChapter 1. Global Machine Translation Market Definition and Scope1.1. Research Objective1.2. Market Definition1.3. Scope of The Study1.4. Years Considered for The Study1.5. Currency Conversion Rates1.6. Report LimitationChapter 2. Research Methodology2.1. Research Process2.1.1. Data Mining2.1.2. Analysis2.1.3. Market Estimation2.1.4. Validation2.1.5. Publishing2.2. Research AssumptionChapter 3. Executive Summary3.1. Global & Segmental Market Estimates & Forecasts, 2015-2025 (USD Billion)3.2. Key TrendsChapter 4. Global Machine Translation Market Dynamics4.1. Growth Prospects4.1.1. Drivers4.1.2. Restraints4.1.3. Opportunities4.2. Industry Analysis4.2.1. Porters 5 Force Model4.2.2. PEST Analysis4.2.3. Value Chain Analysis4.3. Analyst Recommendation & ConclusionChapter 5. Global Machine Translation Market, By ApplicationChapter 6. Global Machine Translation Market, By TechnologyChapter 7. Global Machine Translation Market, by Regional AnalysisChapter 8. Competitive Intelligence8.1. Company Market Share (Subject to Data Availability)8.2. Top Market Strategies8.3. Company Profiles8.3.1. App Tek8.3.1.1. Overview8.3.1.2. Financial (Subject to Data Availability)8.3.1.3. Product Summary8.3.1.4. Recent Developments8.3.2. Asia Online Pte Ltd.8.3.3. Cloudwords Inc.8.3.4. Lighthouse IP Group8.3.5. Lingo24 Ltd.8.3.6. Lionbridge Technologies Inc.8.3.7. Lingotek Inc.8.3.8. Moravia IT8.3.9. Pangeanic8.3.10. ProMT8.3.11. Raythean BBN TechnologiesContinuousFor further information on this report, visit Contact Us:Norah Trentsales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US); +44 208 133 9349 (UK)About Us:Wise Guy Reports Is Part Of The Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. And Offers Premium Progressive Statistical Surveying, Market Research Reports, Analysis & Forecast Data For Industries And Governments Around The Globe. Wise Guy Reports Features An Exhaustive List Of Market Research Reports From Hundreds Of Publishers Worldwide. We Boast A Database Spanning Virtually Every Market Category And An Even More Comprehensive Collection Of Market Research Reports Under These Categories And Sub-Categories.Addres:WISEGUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, IndiaPhone :+91 841 198 5042
Textile Printing Inks Global Market Top Key Players  Dupont , Huntsman, JK Group, Kornit , DyStar SPGprints , BASF and Forecast to 2023

Textile Printing Inks Market

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Global Textile Printing Inks MarketWiseGuyRerports.com Presents Global Textile Printing Inks Market 2018 by Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application, Forecast to 2023 New Document to its Studies Database. The Report Contain 152 Pages With Detailed Analysis.DescriptionTextile Printing Inks is an ink used in digital inkjet printer, generally; it can be directly applied to the print media in the form of droplets. The main components of the ink are color unit and vectors. Color unit may be a pigment or dye.Scope of the Report:This report focuses on the Textile Printing Inks in global market, especially in North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East and Africa. This report categorizes the market based on manufacturers, regions, type and application.There are many manufactures of the Textile printing inks in the world, the largest company occupy about 11% market share, mainly in the United States and Europe. DuPont and Huntsman stands for the industrys development.Get sample Report @The price of foreign products is higher than domestic product price, and the property of Textile printing inks is also better than the domestic. The manufactures in China should strengthen technology research and development and produce best Textile printing inks product.Print-Rite and Lanyu have made a significant contribution to the development of Chinese textile printing inks industry. Just like Atexco in the printer manufacturing fields.The worldwide market for Textile Printing Inks is expected to grow at a CAGR of roughly 12.5% over the next five years, will reach 1250 million US$ in 2023, from 610 million US$ in 2017, according to a new GIR (Global Info Research) study.Market Segment by Manufacturers, this report coversDupontHuntsmanJK GroupKornitDyStarSPGprintsBASFJay ChemicalMarabuDow CorningEFISensientMagna ColoursAnajetPrint-RiteLanyuHongsamINKBANKTrendVisionINKWINMarket Segment by Regions, regional analysis coversNorth America (United States, Canada and Mexico)Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy)Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia etc.)Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa)Market Segment by Type, coversReactive Dye InksAcidic InkPaint InkDispersion & Sublimation InkMarket Segment by Applications, can be divided intoClothing IndustryTextile IndustryOthersComplete Report Details @Table of Contents -Major Key Points1 Market Overview1.1 Textile Printing Inks Introduction1.2 Market Analysis by Type1.2.1 Reactive Dye Inks1.2.2 Acidic Ink1.2.3 Paint Ink1.2.4 Dispersion & Sublimation Ink1.3 Market Analysis by Applications1.3.1 Clothing Industry1.3.2 Textile Industry1.3.3 Others1.4 Market Analysis by Regions1.4.1 North America (United States, Canada and Mexico)1.4.1.1 United States Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.1.2 Canada Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.1.3 Mexico Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.2 Europe (Germany, France, UK, Russia and Italy)1.4.2.1 Germany Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.2.2 France Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.2.3 UK Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.2.4 Russia Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.2.5 Italy Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.3 Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India and Southeast Asia)1.4.3.1 China Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.3.2 Japan Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.3.3 Korea Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.3.4 India Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.3.5 Southeast Asia Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.4 South America, Middle East and Africa1.4.4.1 Brazil Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.4.2 Egypt Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.4.3 Saudi Arabia Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.4.4 South Africa Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.4.4.5 Nigeria Market States and Outlook (2013-2023)1.5 Market Dynamics1.5.1 Market Opportunities1.5.2 Market Risk1.5.3 Market Driving Force2 Manufacturers Profiles2.1 Dupont2.1.1 Business Overview2.1.2 Textile Printing Inks Type and Applications2.1.2.1 Product A2.1.2.2 Product B2.1.3 Dupont Textile Printing Inks Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.2 Huntsman2.2.1 Business Overview2.2.2 Textile Printing Inks Type and Applications2.2.2.1 Product A2.2.2.2 Product B2.2.3 Huntsman Textile Printing Inks Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.3 JK Group2.3.1 Business Overview2.3.2 Textile Printing Inks Type and Applications2.3.2.1 Product A2.3.2.2 Product B2.3.3 JK Group Textile Printing Inks Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.4 Kornit2.4.1 Business Overview2.4.2 Textile Printing Inks Type and Applications2.4.2.1 Product A2.4.2.2 Product B2.4.3 Kornit Textile Printing Inks Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)2.5 DyStar2.5.1 Business Overview2.5.2 Textile Printing Inks Type and Applications2.5.2.1 Product A2.5.2.2 Product B2.5.3 DyStar Textile Printing Inks Sales, Price, Revenue, Gross Margin and Market Share (2016-2017)..CONTINUEDAbout UsWise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, Industry research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available.NORAH TRENTPartner Relations & Marketing Managersales@wiseguyreports.comPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Ph: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)
Europe Pet Food Market to Reach US$28,146.1 Million by 2021 owing to Rising Awareness on Pet Health

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Europe has emerged as a prominent market for pet food across the world, thanks to the increasing number of pet owners in this region. The rising trend for nuclear family and the high disposable income of consumers have been leading to a positive growth of the Europe market for pet food. The increasing need for pet specific products across Europe is also reflecting on the demand for pet food products in European countries. A varied range of distribution channels, such as supermarket/hypermarket, online stores, and dollar stores, sell pet food products across this region.In 2014, the Europe market for pet food was worth US$25.70 bn. Progressing at a CAGR of 1.30% during the period from 2015 to 2021, the opportunity in this market is anticipated to increase to US$28.14 bn by the end of 2021. The rising awareness among people pertaining to pet health will drive this market substantially over the next few years.Request Sample @Demand for Cat Food to Remain StrongThe Europe market for pet food is broadly evaluated on the basis of the type of pet and the type of pet food. Based on the type of pet, the market is classified into dog food, cat food, and various other food consumed by birds, fish, reptiles, and other small animals. The demand for cat food has been higher in Europe. Researchers expect the cat food segment to continue to witness stable growth over the next few years. The rising popularity of small pets in this region is the main factor behind the high demand for cat food in Europe. Other pet foods, such as fish food, bird food, and reptile food, are also predicted to experience an increasing demand in the years to come.By the type of food, the market is categorized into nutritious food, wet/canned food, dry food, snacks/treats, and other types of food, including raw meat. Currently, dry food enjoy the most prominent demand among pet food in Europe. The trend is anticipated to remain so over the next few years. The demand for nutritious pet food is also projected to report an upswing in the near future, thanks to the increasing level of awareness regarding its benefits on the health of pets.Request PDF Brochure @Spain to Report Strong Growth PaceThe Europe market for pet food registers its presence across the U.K., France, Netherlands Germany, Spain, Italy, and the Rest of the Europe. The U.K. has surfaced as the leading pet food market in Europe in the recent times; however, it is expected to witness a sluggish rise in the years to come. Spain, on the other hand, will display a higher growth pace over the next few years, thanks to the rising count of pet owners in this country. Italy, France, and Netherlands will also report a healthy rise in their respective markets for pet food in the near future.Request for Discount @At the forefront of the Europe market for pet food are Pedigree Whiskas, Purina, Nutro, and Cesar. Other prominent pet food vendors across Europe are Mars Inc., Colgate-Palmolive, Nestle S.A., Big Heart Pet Brands, and Affinity Petcare.Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.TMRs data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With extensive research and analysis capabilities, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.Transparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
F5 Buddy is moving a Step Up! Future Plans.

With the Holiday season just around the corner, with the fresh year coming closer every day, we at F5 Buddy are all the more excited about the opportunities that await us. We believe that we are on the path towards success and that we will keep moving at a fast pace.What we're up toWe are gearing up to serve our customers in the wide areas of various sectors with their concerns. We will keep on building healthier and mutually beneficial relationships with our customers through persistent delivery of world-class products and services.We have promised ourselves to build products that are- Interactive in functionalities Immersive in User experience Innovative in TechnologyWe do not compromise with quality and are remembered for the products that we build.We are leveling up!This is what our plan for the future looks like- Extending our reach to different countries that we are yet to touch. Disrupting industries with solutions that are truly advanced and ahead of their time. Helping our customers gain success by solving their real problems with real solutions. Keeping our integrity intact as lost ethics cannot be gained back. Nudging the society on, towards a better life with the judicious use of Technology. Developing business-specific solutions for enterprises and our offshore clients.We started off with zero external finances, and are proud of the fact that we have made it so far. To keep this success chart consistent, we are working hard and not letting go of our vision for a better tomorrow.F5 Buddy is a leading full services offshore web development company catering result-oriented and cost-competitive solutions to SMEs across the US, UK, Japan, Australia, Canada and many parts of Europe.We have Highly Skilled Web Developers believes in integrating the best in class technology for an all round comprehensive solution. For us service means going way beyond providing technical solutions and so, we strive continuously to provide our customers with the best experience in terms of value for money and satisfaction.Press Contact:F5 Buddy114, Bansi Trade CenterM. G. Road Indore M.P. - 452001Phone +91 913 159 9323contact@f5buddy.com
Plywood Market 2018 : Manufacturers Analysis,Applications,Demand by Regions & Forecasts to 2022

Plywood Market

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WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On  Plywood Market 2018 : Manufacturers Analysis,Applications,Demand by Regions & Forecasts to 2022.The Plywood Market 2017 Report offers detailed analysis of the Plywood market over the last five years, and provides extensive market forecasts by region/country and sub sector. It covers the key technological and market trends in the Plywood market. It further lays out an analysis of the factors influencing the supply/demand for Plywood, and the opportunities/challenges faced by industry participants. It also acts as an essential tool to companies active across the value chain and to the new entrants by enabling them to capitalize the opportunities and develop business strategies.Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comIn particular, it provides an in-depth analysis of the following:Market overview: detailed analysis of the whole value chain (upstream & downstream), insights into technological developments, and an extensive analysis of costs analysis from the aspects of raw materials, labor costs and etc.Market size and driving factors: comprehensive analysis of the global Plywood market during the 2012-2022 period, including market volume & value, growth and development trends, demand drivers and stimulators for Plywood. It also provides an insight on the spending pattern and application pattern in different regions around the world.Competitive landscape analysis: exhaustive analysis of top players on the market performances (sales and market position), strengths & weaknesses, opportunities and threats. It also provides the current consolidation trends in the industry and the challenges faced by industry participants.Worldwide supply/demand pattern: analysis of the key markets in each region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, ChinaMiddle East & Africa), providing an analysis of the top segments of Plywood expected to be in demand.Tends forecast: analysis of regional demand and growth trends, all the numbers, both - sales & volume, at each level of the detail are estimated till 2022, to give a glimpse of the potential market size in terms of value in this market.Ask Query @Table Of Contents  Major Key PointsPart 1. Exclusive SummaryPart 2. Methodology2.1 Research Methodology2.2 Geographic Scope2.3 Years ConsideredPart 3. Introduction3.1 Overview3.2 Supply Chain Structure3.2.1 Raw Material Supply3.2.2 Manufacturing3.2.3 Cost AnalysisPart 4. Market Landscape4.1 Global Plywood Market by Volume 2012-20174.1.1 Overview4.1.2 Global Plywood Market, by Volume 2012-20174.1.3 Top 10 Plywood Companies, by Volume Share 2012-20174.2 Global Plywood Market by Revenue 2012-20174.2.1 Overview4.2.2 Global Plywood Market, by Revenue 2012-20174.2.3 Top 10 Plywood Companies, by Revenue Share 2012-2017Part 5. Segmentation by Type (Volume & Revenue)5.1 Type I5.2 Type II5.3 Type IIIPart 6. Segmentation by Application (Volume & Revenue)6.1 Application A6.2 Application B6.3 Application C6.4 Application DPart 7. North American Plywood Market7.1 North American Plywood Market by Volume7.2 North American Plywood Market by RevenuePart 8. European Plywood Market8.1 European Plywood Market by Volume8.2 European Plywood Market by RevenuePart 9. Asia Pacific Plywood Market9.1 Asia Pacific Plywood Market by Volume9.2 Asia Pacific Plywood Market by RevenuePart 10. Chinese Plywood Market10.1 Chinese Plywood Market by Volume10.2 Chinese Plywood Market by RevenuePart 11. Market Forecast11.1 Market Size by Volume 2017-202211.1.1 North America11.1.2 Europe11.1.3 Asia-Pacific11.1.4 China11.2 Market Size by Revenue 2017-202211.2.1 North America11.2.2 Europe11.2.3 Asia-Pacific11.2.4 China11.3 Regional Consumption 2017-202211.3.1 North America11.3.2 Europe11.3.3 Asia-Pacific11.3.4 China11.4 Market by Type (Volume & Revenue) 2017-202211.5 Market by Application (Volume & Revenue) 2017-2022ContinuedFor more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028.
Hollow Core Insulator Market Analysis 2026| Lapp Insulators GmbH, CTC Insulator Co. Ltd., ABB Ltd, TE Connectivity Ltd

MRRSE

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https://www.mrrse.com/hollow-core-insulator-market

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This comprehensive report by MRRSE analyzes and forecasts the hollow core insulator market at the global and regional level. The report provides an analysis over the period 20162026, wherein 2018 to 2026 is the forecast period and the base year is 2017. An in-depth and unbiased market assessment has been made to offer readers in-depth and accurate analysis. The report emphasizes on all the major trends and services playing a key role in the hollow core insulator market growth during 2018  2026. It also focuses on restraining factors, market drivers, and opportunities of the hollow core insulator market during the said period. The study provides a complete perspective about the hollow core insulator markets growth throughout the research study in terms of value (in US$ Mn)and volume (in Thousand Units) across various geographies, including Asia Pacific, South America, North America, Middle East & Africa (MEA), and Europe.Get Sample PDF for more Professional and Technical insights @The report includes a detailed value chain analysis which is focused on providing a widespread view of the global hollow core insulator market. Porters Five Forces analysis is also provided to understand the competitive scenario in the market. The study incorporates market attractiveness analysis, wherein the market segments for material, voltage rating, and application are benchmarked based on their market size, growth rate, and attractiveness in terms of opportunity. In order to give a complete analysis of the overall competitive scenario in the hollow core insulator market, every geographic region mentioned in the report, is provided with attractiveness analysis.A market overview chapter in the hollow core Insulator market report explains the market trends and dynamics that include the market restraining factors, drivers, and opportunities for the current and future hollow core insulator market. A market outlook analysis has also been provided globally in the report. Additionally, the report also provides analysis of different business strategies being adopted by the market leaders of the hollow core insulator market. Market introduction chapter assists in gaining an idea of different trends and services related to hollow core insulators along with their materials and applications.Global Hollow Core Insulator Market: Scope of the ReportThe study provides a decisive view on the global hollow core insulator market, by segmenting the market on the basis of material into ceramic and composite. By voltage rating, the market has been classified into1-69kV, 69-230kV, and above 230kV. By application, the market has been classified into switchgear, current & voltage transformer, cable termination & bushing, surge arrester, station post, and others. The report provides a detailed breakdown of the hollow core insulator market region-wise and categorizes it at various levels, thus providing valuable insights at micro and macro levels.The report further highlights the competitive scenario within the hollow core insulator market, thus ranking all the major players according to the key recent developments and their geographic presence. The insights for the hollow core insulator market are the result of our extensive primary interviews, secondary research, and in-house expert panel reviews. These market estimates have been analyzed by considering the impact of different economic, political, social, legal, and technological factors.On the basis of country, the North America market is bifurcated into Canada, the U.S., and Rest of North America. Furthermore, Europe market is analyzed across the U.K., France, Germany, and Rest of Europe. The hollow core insulator market in APAC is also segmented on country level which includes China, Japan, India, South Korea, and Rest of Asia Pacific. Middle East & Africa region covers the GCC, South Africa, and Rest of Middle East and Africa. Similarly, South America region includes Brazil and Rest of South America. This report provides all the strategic information required to understand the hollow core insulator market along with its material and application. Also, the report provides insights related to the components and different applications according to the various geographical regions mentioned above.To know the latest trends and insights prevalent in this market, click the link below@Global Hollow Core Insulator Market: Research MethodologyThe research methodology is a perfect combination of primary research, secondary research, and expert panel reviews. Secondary sources include annual reports, company websites, SEC filings and investor presentations, national government documents, internal and external proprietary databases, statistical databases, relevant patent and regulatory databases, market reports, government publications, statistical databases, etc.Primary research involves telephonic interviews, e-mail interactions, and face-to-face interviews for detailed and unbiased reviews on the hollow core insulator market across geographies. Primary interviews are usually conducted on an ongoing basis with industry experts and participants in order to get latest market insights and validate the existing data and analysis. Primary interviews offer new and fresh information on important factors such as market trends, market size, competitive landscape, growth trends, etc. These factors help to validate and strengthen secondary research findings. Moreover, the data collected and analyzed from secondary and primary research is again discussed and examined by our expert panel.Global Hollow Core Insulator Market: Competitive DynamicsThe research study includes profiles of leading companies operating in the global hollow core insulator market. Market players have been profiled in terms of attributes such as company overview, financial overview, SWOT analysis, business strategies, and recent developments. Key players in the hollow core insulator market are PPC Insulators Austria GmbH, Allied Insulators Group Limited, Lapp Insulators GmbH, CTC Insulator Co., Ltd., ABB Ltd, TE Connectivity Ltd, Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH, ZPE ZAPAL S.A, saver S.p.A, and CERALEP SN. Companies are focusing on expanding their business through strategic acquisitions and partnerships with several end-use industries.Inquire more or share questions if any on this report @About UsMarket Research Reports Search Engine (MRRSE) is an industry-leading database of market intelligence reports. MRRSE is driven by a stellar team of research experts and advisors trained to offer objective advice. Our sophisticated search algorithm returns results based on the report title, geographical region, publisher, or other keywords.MRRSE partners exclusively with leading global publishers to provide clients single-point access to top-of-the-line market research. MRRSEs repository is updated every day to keep its clients ahead of the next new trend in market research, be it competitive intelligence, product or service trends or strategic consulting.ContactState Tower90, State StreetSuite 700Albany, NY  12207United States Telephone: +1-518-730-0559Email: sales@mrrse.comWebsite:
Electric Bicycle Market 2018 Global Share,Trend,Segmentation and Forecast to 2022

Electric Bicycle Market

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WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On  Electric Bicycle Market 2018 Global Share,Trend,Segmentation and Forecast to 2022.An electric bicycle, also known as an e-bike or booster bike, is a bicycle with an integrated electric motor which can be used for propulsion. There are a great variety of e-bikes available worldwide, from e-bikes that only have a small motor to assist the rider's pedal-power (i.e., pedelecs) to somewhat more powerful e-bikes which tend closer to moped-style functionality: all, however, retain the ability to be pedalled by the rider and are therefore not electric motorcycles. E-bikes use rechargeable batteries and the lighter varieties can travel up to 25 to 32 km/h (16 to 20 mph), depending on the laws of the country in which they are sold, while the more high-powered varieties can often do in excess of 45 km/h (28 mph).Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comThis report provides detailed analysis of worldwide markets for Electric Bicycle from 2011-2016, and provides extensive market forecasts (2016-2021) by region/country and subsectors. It covers the volumes, prices, historical growth and future perspectives in the Electric Bicycle market and further lays out an analysis of the factors influencing the supply/demand for Electric Bicycle, and the opportunities/challenges faced by industry participants. It also acts as an essential tool to companies active across the value chain and to the new entrants by enabling them to capitalize the opportunities and develop business strategies.The report has been prepared based on the synthesis, analysis, and interpretation of information about the global Electric Bicycle market collected from specialized sources. The report covers key technological developments in the recent times and profiles leading players in the market and analyzes their key strategies. The competitive landscape section of the report provides a clear insight into the market share analysis of key industry players. The major players in the global Electric Bicycle market are Yadea (China), AIMA (China), Luyuan (China), Jiangsu Xinri (China), Accell Group (Netherlands), Derby Cycle (Germany), BH BIKES (USA), Pedego (USA), Stromer (Switzerland) etc.The report provides separate comprehensive analytics for the North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Rest of World. In this sector, global competitive landscape and supply/demand pattern of Electric Bicycle industry has been provided.Ask Query @Table Of Contents  Major Key PointsPart 1. Exclusive SummaryPart 2. Methodology2.1 Research Methodology2.2 Geographic Scope2.3 Years ConsideredPart 3. Introduction3.1 Electric Bicycle Definition3.2 Supply Chain Structure3.2.1 Raw Material Supply3.2.2 Manufacturing3.2.3 Production Cost AnalysisPart 4. Market Landscape4.1 Global Electric Bicycle Market by Volume 2011-20164.1.1 Overview4.1.2 Global Electric Bicycle Volume 2011-20164.1.3 Top 10 Electric Bicycle Companies (Volume Share)4.2 Global Electric Bicycle Revenue 2011-20164.2.1 Overview4.2.2 Global Electric Bicycle Market by Revenue 2011-20164.2.3 Top 10 Electric Bicycle Companies (Revenue Share)Part 5. Segmentation by Type5.1 Type 15.2 Type 25.3 Type 3Part 6. Segmentation by Application6.1 Application 16.2 Application 26.3 Application 36.4 Application 4Part 7. North America Electric Bicycle Market7.1 North America Electric Bicycle Market Size7.2 Price & Margin7.3 Trade BalancePart 8. Europe Electric Bicycle Market8.1 Europe Market Electric Bicycle Size8.2 Price & Margin8.3 Trade BalancePart 9. Asia Pacific Electric Bicycle Market9.1 Asia Pacific Electric Bicycle Market Size9.2 Price & Margin9.3 Trade BalancePart 10. Market Forecast10.1 Market Size by Volume 2016-202110.1.1 North America10.1.2 Europe10.1.3 Asia-Pacific10.1.4 RoW10.2 Market Size by Revenue 2016-202110.2.1 North America10.2.2 Europe10.2.3 Asia-Pacific10.2.4 RoW10.3 Regional Consumption 2016-202110.3.1 North America10.3.2 Europe10.3.3 Asia-Pacific10.3.4 RoW10.4 Market by Type 2016-202110.5 Market by Application 2016-2021Part 11. Company Profiles11.1 Company A11.1.1 Overview11.1.2 Products Offered11.1.3 Business Performance (Volume, Price, Revenue, Market Share)11.2 Company B11.3 Company C11.4 Company DContinuedFor more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028.
Electroceutical Devices Market - Global Forecast to 2026

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Electroceuticals is recently coined term for an old therapeutic modality, which broadly encompass all the bioelectric medicine. It includes any type of electrical stimulation, which affects and modify functions of the body and neural implants such as cochlear implants, retinal implants or spinal cord stimulators, cardiac pacemakers, and implantable defibrillators. Over a period of time, electroceutical expanded their applicability to include deep brain stimulation and the electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve. Electroceuticals are also called as bioelectronics, which encompass tiny electronic implants, which are capable to treat wide range of chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, arthritis, hypertension and other heart ailments, and gastrointestinal diseases.Request Sample Copy of this Business Report @Bioelectric medicine is an innovative approach to diagnose and treat injuries and diseases, as all major organs of the body are connected to the nerves, which allows the brain to monitor and regulate the functions of the organs. Bioelectric medicine refers to the usage of a device to modulate and read the electrical activity within the bodys nervous systems. Nerve blocking devices or nerve stimulating devices that are held against the skin or implanted on a nerve have the potential to regulate specific nerve activity, make specific changes in organ function, and also restore health without side effects of pharmaceutical agents. Bioelectric medicine technology is used to record, block, and stimulate neural signals, which can be used to the change the way diseases and injuries are treated. Biogenetic medicine are also used for the treatment of conditions such as cancer, paralysis, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes.The global electroceutical devices market size was valued at US$ 17,479.8 Mn in 2017, and is expected to witness a CAGR of 8.0% over the forecast period (2018  2026).Increasing Engagement of Key Players to Accelerate Drug Discovery and Development Process is expected to Aid in the Market GrowthCollaborations, advancements in technology, innovations in the field of bioelectric medicines such as non-invasive devices are the major factors driving growth of the bioelectric medicine market. For instance, in October 2016, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced US$ 20 million funding for the treatment of disease with electrical stimulation, which aims to improve maps of the peripheral nervous systemthe bodys electrical wiringand generate sophisticated systems that can hack into its codes. Moreover, the funding is part of a US$ 248 million, seven-year program, which the NIH Common Fund announced in 2014.Furthermore, in 2016, GlaxoSmithKline Plc. (GSK) merged with Googles parent company Alphabet to set up a new bioelectric company called Galvani Bioelectronics, which will benefit over 2 billion people suffering from chronic diseases. GSK invested around US$ 615 million for the development of Galvani Bioelectronics.High Prevalence of Chronic Diseases among Global Population is Propelling Demand for Electroceutical DevicesOther factors boosting growth of the bioelectric medicine market include increasing number of diseases in geriatric population such as cardiac arrhythmias, Parkinsons disease, Alzheimers disease, epilepsy, and depression, and rise in chronic diseases such as neurological and cardiac disorders. For instance, according to a study conducted by Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care in 2017, four major chronic diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases were the major cause for 82% deaths in India. According to a study conducted by World Health Organization (WHO), in 2017, non-communicable diseases are expected to contribute to death of 52 million people by 2030 globally.According to the Data published in Current Pharmaceutical Design Journal in 2017, ion channel and neurotransmitter modulators can act as electroceutical approaches to control the cancer. Furthermore, in March 2014, Cancer-Code Corporation (C3) announced issuance of patent which entitles: Method and System for Processing Cancer Cell Electrical Signals for Medical Therapy, which covers an innovative approach to eradicate cancer in humans and animals. Moreover, high prevalence of cancer and increasing awareness regarding early detection and treatment of cancer is further expected to drive growth of the global electroceutical devices market. For instance, in 2012, according to American Cancer Society data findings, North America accounted for high incidence rate of cancer in children as compared to any other region worldwide. Moreover, according to the same source, in 2012, North America accounted for 13.1% of total estimated cases of cancer worldwide.Furthermore, increasing incidence of diabetes mellitus worldwide is expected to drive growth of the market. For instance, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), 2016, an estimated 422 million adults are suffering from diabetes. The major spike in incidence of type 2 diabetes over the last decade (2006-2016) is mainly attributed to high prevalence of obesity.Moreover, electrical stimulation and electroceutical treatment effectively restores injury, expediting normal healing and reducing chronic inflammation, biofilms, infection and associated symptoms, such as pain and high exudate. Electroceutical therapy for wound management uses a small, targeted, electrical current to create a physiological change that recompense the impaired biological functions in the wound, starting the healing process in the wound. Synapse electroceutical Ltd.: a medical technology company from U.K. offers AccelHeal: a small disposable class IIa portable medical device. Accel-Heal uses the patented Synapse Sequence programmed technology to promote healing in leg ulcers through the use of electroceutical energy.Ask for customization:Moreover, high prevalence of wound and ulcers among the global population is expected to augment growth of the electroceutical devices market. For instance, according to National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel, 2017 data findings, 2.5 million patients develop pressure ulcer annually, in U.S. Furthermore, pressure ulcer shows national incidence rate of 2.5% in hospitals.Key players operating in electroceutical devices market include Medtronic plc, Abbott Laboratories, Cochlear Ltd. Sonova Holding AG, Advanced Bionics AG, Boston Scientific Corporation, electroCore, Inc., Biotronik, ReShape Lifesciences, Inc., and LivaNova, PLC.About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave, #3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com
Biodegradable Stents Market - Forecast to 2026

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Biodegradable Stents Market Insights  Say No to Infinite Stay of Foreign MaterialStents are metal scaffolds used for opening the blocked vessel to optimize the flow of biliary fluid or blood through the vessel. Biodegradable stents also called as bioresorbable stents are type of stents made from special biodegradable material such as polymers and metal, eliminating the stents removal and side-effects of conventional stents. Biodegradable polymers evaluated for stent manufacture are polylactic acid (PLA), poly-DL-lactic acid (PDLLA), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), poly-DL-lactide-co-glycolide (PDLGA), poly-lactic-co glycolide (PLGA), polycaprolactone (PCL), polylactic acid/polycaprolactone (PLA/PCL), whereas biodegradable metal are made up of magnesium, stainless steel, and cobalt chromium. Biodegradable material hydrolyze in presence of water and convert into simple biological compounds.Request Sample Copy of this Business Report @The global biodegradable stents market size is estimated to be valued at US$ 278.6 million in 2018, and is expected to witness a CAGR of 15.6% over the forecast period (2018  2026).Increasing risk of cardiovascular disease is driving the biodegradable stents market growthHigh risk of developing cardiovascular disease is expected to fuel the biodegradable stents market growth over the forecast period. For instance, according to American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, owning for more than 17.3 million deaths per year in 2013, comprising around 31% and number is expected to grow to more than 23.6 million by 2030.Moreover, as per American Heart Associations Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics 2017, 39.7% of American adults suffer from high cholesterol, which is projecting them towards higherrisk of arterial blockage. Furthermore, sedentary lifestyle and increasing proportion of obesity and geriatric population is also expected to drive growth of the biodegradable stents market.Biodegradable stents are gaining traction and adoption attributing to drawbacks of bare metal stents. For instance, bare metal stents are reported to cause hypersensitivity reaction and issues such as late drug eluting stents thrombosis. However, high cost of the biodegradable stents is the major factor hindering the market growth.Biodegradable stents market regional outlook - Asia Pacific to be the fastest growing marketThe regional biodegradable stents market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa by Coherent Market Insights. Europe holds dominant position in biodegradable stents market, owing to presence of large number of approved products in the region. On the other hand, the market in North America is expected to experience growth gradually once there approved products sail through successfully in the market. Moreover, there is increasing prevalence of cardiac blockage due to sedentary lifestyle in the region. For instance, according to Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the three major factor leading to heart disease are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking, which has prevalence of 47% of the American population attributing to the disease prone population. However, biodegradable stents market in Asia Pacific is expected to witness significant growth, owing increasing medical tourism and increasing adoption of biodegradable stents. Moreover, emerging economies such as India and China offers wide opportunity for the market players, which is fuelling growth of the regional biodegradable stents market.Ask for customization:The key players dominating the global biodegradable stents marketMajor players operating in biodegradable stents market include Boston Scientific Corporation, Abbott, Kyoto Medical Planning Co., Ltd., QualiMed, Elixir Medical Corporation, ENDOCOR GmbH, BIOTRONIK SE & Co. KG, Amaranth Medical, Inc., and Arterial Remodeling Technologies SA.The global biodegradable stents market growth is also driven by the inorganic strategies of the market players. For instance, in 2015, Cardinal Health acquired Cordis, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, for US$ 1.9 billion. The acquisition will roll on the Cordiss S.M.A.R.T., vascular stents system.Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave, #3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com
Submit Your Stories About Kids And Angels For New Installments Of 'Tuesdays With The Angels' By Award Winning Author Jody Sharpe

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In the latest installment of 'Tuesdays With The Angels', Jody Sharpe, author of The Angel's Daughter and 'To Catch An Angel', presented several stories about the unique relationship children have with angels."At book signings I always ask everyone who comes up to my table if they think they might have ever had an encounter with an angel," Sharpe related. "I find so many people have had some kind of angel connection and are eager to share their spiritual experience. One family came up to me at a book fair and told me of their little three year olds sighting. One day the little girl said she saw an angel standing before them. They did not see the angel and were surprised when their little girl raised both arms to heaven and shouted Glory Hallelujah.""Many children have had angel experiences. In my novel 'To Catch an Angel', miracles happen in Mystic Bay as three children have angel encounters. These events bring the whole town together to share in the joy of the angel sightings. The effect of love from the angel sightings goes all around the world."More is available at her website.In her 'Tuesdays With The Angels' blog series, Jody Sharpe presents quotes about angels drawn from several of her books and fascinating angel stories from herself and others who submit stories for publication.New installments in the series include:aTuesdays With The Angels - Children And Angels 1Tuesdays With The Angels - Children And Angels 2Tuesdays With The Angels - Angels Unaware (Roy Rogers and Dale Evans)Tuesdays With The Angels - A Man Named KenJody is now accepting submissions of angel stories for possible inclusion on her 'Tuesdays With The Angels blog. She hopes to create a collection of angel stories that involve sightings of angels, interaction with angels, miraculous angel encounters and other types of accounts or stories. All submissions will be considered, but inclusion is not guaranteed. Stories may be submitted at her website.Angels and stories about angelic beings have been with us since Biblical times. While some people believe angels are real and do exist, others dismiss the possibility. There is tremendous interest in the subject. A Google search lists hundreds of millions of results. A number of videos on Youtube claim to have caught angels in action - on film.Jody Sharpe knows angels exist. Her first book, The Angel's Daughter, was written in memory of her daughter Kate. Her second book, 'To Catch An Angel', was written in memory of her husband Steve.Over a decade ago, when her daughter died tragically Sharpe faced down the most difficult challenge of her life. She was determined not to just merely survive, but to live; to honor the life of her beloved daughter, her twins, her husband and the rest of the rich life she had created before the tragedy. Blessed with an inherently positive outlook these trying times were strengthened by influences from the late Norman Vincent Peale to the children's book character, Wilbur the pig. For Sharpe, ministers of spirit and guidance took the form of angels. Sharpe's openness to change led her to write her first novel, 'The Angel's Daughter'. The story that takes place in the fictitious town of Mystic Bay, California and encompasses all Sharpe's attitudes about goodness, healing and moving on.Jody is also the author of 'To Catch An Angel', written in memory of her late husband Steve. In 'To Catch An Angel', miracles happen in Mystic Bay, California, the town with the psychic and angel vibe. Angels are calling. Psychic Maggie Malone returns home to find she's swept up in the miracle of it all. She can't imagine why her mother left or who her father might be. But these questions pale in comparison to the wonder of the angels. Maggie meets writer, Noah Greenstreet. They realize they've met before, but where? Maggie and Noah embark on a journey to find our world is all awash with angels.Jody has announced the upcoming release of a new book about angels, 'Town of Angels'. In the storyline of the book, a secret lies in Mystic Bay, California where angels have appeared to children. The secret angels live as humans is safe for now but is it? As a bully, Klaus Waxman comes to town, Angel Ken Greer, a storeowner, must carefully guide his flock of humans not to give in to the bullys efforts. As Klaus opens a store mocking the resident angels sightings, Angel Ken guides psychic Justine Greer, her family and the indomitable oldest psychic in town, Madam Norma, to thwart Klaus Waxmans efforts with their soft voices and intuitive mindsThe new book is slated for release in 2019.Jody was chosen as a winner in the annual '50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading' Book Awards. She was chosen from a field of hundreds of authors through a public voting process.Sharpe's books have received a large number of rave reviews. A recent Amazon review stated, "This book would make a beautiful Christmas Hallmark movie. You will be left believing in Angels here on earth." Another said, "This a wonderful story that reminds us of the kindness and gentleness that exists in this world." Another stated, "Amazing. Most of all it is a feel good book and a must read.Jody Sharpe is available for media interviews and can be reached using the information below, or by email at sharpejody76@gmail.com. Angel stories can be submitted at her website. All of her books are available at online book retailers. New quotes will be added every Tuesday to the 'Tuesdays With The Angels' section of her blog, which can be found at her website.Jody Sharpe had a rewarding career as a Special Education teacher. Writing about angels became healing after losing her daughter and then her husband. The valuable lessons she learned about moving forward and loving life in the now have set her on a mission to tell the stories with love, humor and spiritual awakening. The fictitious town of Mystic Bay has given her an avenue to put characters and themes together hopefully enlightening the reader towards contemplation of the precious life and memories we are given.PO Box 1613Shallotte, NC 28459
Cooling Towers Market | Global Industry Top Key Players: Johnson Controls, Baltimore Aircoil Company, GEA Group, SPX Corporation and HAMON

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According to research for markets, the Cooling Towers - Global Market Outlook (2017-2023)' is a professional and in-depth study & with a focus on the current state of the global industry.The Global Cooling Towers market is expected to grow from $2.27 billion in 2016 to reach $3.36 billion by 2023 with a CAGR of 5.7%.Growing demand for cooling towers from developing regions, technological improvements in cooling towers and increasing demand for HVACR deployments among various industries are propelling the market. However, water requirement in bulk quantities and slow growth of these towers in Europe and North America are hindering the market.Request Free Sample Copy of the Report @Asia Pacific has acquired largest market share owing to the adoption of cooling towers in industrial sector. Demand for cooling towers is also growing in China with the emergence of new power plant projects and rapid industrialization.SOME OF THE KEY PLAYERS IN GLOBAL COOLING TOWERS MARKET INCLUDE Bell Cooling Tower Johnson Controls Inc Baltimore Aircoil Company Inc Star Cooling Towers Pvt. Ltd Brentwood Industries, Inc Paharpur Cooling Tower Limited Enexio SPX Corporation Hamon & CIE International SA Spig S.P.A. Kuken Kogoyo Co.Ltd Delta Cooling Tower Inc Harrison Cooling Towers Pvt. Ltd Evapco Inc Kemrock Industries Exports Ltd.MATERIALS COVERED: Concrete Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Wood SteelBrowse Full Report with TOC @Hybrid towers segment dominated the cooling towers market with a highest market share due to optimal cooling and water conservation. On the other hand, the demand for fiber- reinforced plastic (FRP) is growing rapidly as this material is corrosion resistance, less cost compared to other materials and easy to install. Growing construction projects and rising focus on building energy management technologies are increasing the demand for HVAC cooling towers. These cooling towers are widely used in industrial applications to maintain temperatures in chillers.APPLICATIONS COVERED: Chemical Power Generation Petrochemical and Oil & Gas Food & Beverage HVACR Pharmaceutical and Laboratories Process CoolingMETHOD OF HEAT TRANSFERS COVERED: Plume Abatement Tower Dry Tower Water Conservation Tower Evaporative Tower Other Method of Heat TransfersCONSTRUCTIONS COVERED: Factory Assembled Field ErectedTYPE OF TOWERS COVERED: Hybrid Cooling Tower Closed-Circuit Cooling Towers Open-Circuit Cooling Towers Natural Draft Mechanical DraftREGIONS COVERED: North America Europe Asia Pacific South America Middle East & AfricaWHAT OUR REPORT OFFERS:- Market share assessments for the regional and country level segments- Market share analysis of the top industry players- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants- Market forecasts for a minimum of 7 years of all the mentioned segments, sub segments and the regional markets- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)Place a Purchase Order for Cooling Towers Market@Note: Any special requirements about this report, please let us know and we can provide custom report.About Research for Markets:Research for Markets indulges in detailed and diligent research on different markets, trends and emerging opportunities in the successive direction to cater to your business needs. We have established the pillars of our flourishing institute on the grounds of Credibility and Reliability. RFM delve into the markets across Asia Pacific, North America, South America, Europe, Middle East and Africa.Contact:Mr. A NaiduResearch for MarketsTel: +44 8000-4182-37 (UK)Email: alan.naidu@researchformarkets.com
Procalcitonin Antibody Market Opportunity Analysis, 2018 - 2026

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Procalcitonin (PCT) is a peptide precursor of the hormone calcitonin, and belongs to calcitonin (CT) superfamily of peptides. Procalcitonin is a 116 amino acid peptide that has an estimated molecular weight of 14.5 kDa. It can be segregated into three parts, namely immature calcitonin, calcitonin carboxyl-terminus peptide-1, and amino terminus of the PCT region. Procalcitonin was first classified by Bernard Roos and Leonard J. Deftos in the early 1970s. Procalcitonin is produced by C cells of the thyroid and by endocrine cells of the lung. In human body, level of unprocessed procalcitonin rises extensively after shock, injury or bacterial infection, which increases the production of procalcitonin in the body. This might lead to organ dysfunction and call for immediate treatment of the patient. The level of procalcitonin in the body can be diagnosed with wet lab analysis using procalcitonin antibody. On the basis of antibody type, the procalcitonin antibody market is segmented into polyclonal procalcitonin antibody and monoclonal procalcitonin antibody.Request Sample Copy of this Business Report @Procalcitonin Antibody Market DynamicsProcalcitonin variance in healthy individuals and microbial infected individuals has led to the use of PCT as a marker to develop antibiotic therapy and improve identification of bacterial infections. Increasing prevalence of various chronic diseases such as hepatitis, sepsis, tuberculosis, and HIV is expected to propel growth of the procalcitonin antibody market. For instance, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) fact sheet of 2018, cancer was responsible for 8.8 million deaths in 2015 globally. Moreover, according to the World Health Organization report of 2017, around 1.0 million deaths occurred due to HIV related illnesses worldwide. Furthermore, WHO 2017, fact sheet revealed that 71 million people were having chronic hepatitis C infection. Approximately 399,000 people die each year from hepatitis C, mostly from cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. These incidences have led to the adoption of new techniques and procedures by research institutes and hospitals for quick diagnosis of the diseases, so that it can be treated within the earliest time frame. Moreover, increasing funding for research and development by commercial market players and government agencies for the development of efficient, safer, and innovative products for the treatment of diseases such as cancer is fueling growth of the procalcitonin antibody market. For instance, in 2018, the U.S government approved US$ 3 billion funds for the National Institutes of Health research and development activities.Procalcitonin Antibody Market  Regional InsightsOn the basis of region, the global procalcitonin antibody market is segmented into North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. North America is estimated to account for the largest share in the global procalcitonin antibody market, owing to increasing adoption of new techniques in research, and huge national healthcare spending. For instance, according to the U.S Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, national healthcare spending is projected to grow at an average rate of 5.5% per year from 2017 to 2026 and will reach around US$ 5.7 trillion by 2026.Asia Pacific is expected to exhibit significant growth in the procalcitonin antibody market, followed by Europe, owing to increasing healthcare researches and rising geriatric population vulnerable to sepsis disease. According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, in 2015, 9.5% of the population in China was 65 years or older and as per the United Nations, it is projected to reach to 27.5% by 2050.Table of Content (ToC) at a glance @Procalcitonin Antibody Market  Competitive LandscapeKey market players operating in the global procalcitonin antibody market include bioMerieux, HyTest, Roche Diagnostics, Snibe, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Vazyme Biotech, Hotgen Biotech, Getein Biotech, and Hangzhou Realy Tech Co., Ltd. Market players are involved in developing technologies, new product launches, mergers, and collaborations with major companies, in order to retain dominance in the global market. For instance, in 2017, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved bioMerieuxs VIDAS B.R.A.H.M.S PCT assay test, an automated assay for measuring procalcitonin levels. This test will help physicians to make major conclusions regarding the optimal use of antibiotics in two common clinical situations, which include sepsis and lower respiratory tract infections.Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave, #3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com
Military Surveillance Drones Market 2018 - Opportunity, Driving Trends and deep study.

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Market SynopsisMilitary drones are powered aerial vehicles that do not carry human operators and can fly autonomously and remotely. These drones are largely being used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The drones can stay in air for hours or days at a time, and their high-tech cameras can scan a wide geographic area required for surveillance. Such drones are procured by several countries for monitoring their national and sea borders.GET SAMPLE REPORT @The global military surveillance drones market is a very dynamic market and is expected to witness high growth over the forecast period. The global Military surveillance drones market is driven by various factors such as increase in Internal and External Security Threats, increasing Need for Border Monitoring and development of Next-Generation Drones. Drones are the next generation of aerial platforms that are being deployed by the defense ministries around the world. The demand for such unmanned systems has been fuelled by their successful deployment, during combat missions, majorly in countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan. In recent years, there has been a rise in the number of global conflicts such as the Russia and Ukraine conflict over Crimea, battle for supremacy in the South China Sea territory between China and South Korea, maritime disputes between Venezuela and Guyana, and the sea border dispute between Colombia and Nicaragua. This creates the need to up-date border surveillance systems and the treatment of operational information concerning threats.The global Military surveillance drones market is expected to grow at 11.96% CAGR during the forecast period. In 2016, the market was led by North America, with a 54.3% share, followed by Europe and Rest of the World with shares of 22.2% and 13.1%, respectively.The global military surveillance drones market has been segmented on the basis of types, payload and regions. On the basis of types, the market has been segmented into Fixed Wing, Micro/ Nano and Mini. Whereas, the payload segmented has been divided into Electro-Optic/Infrared Sensor, Cameras, Electronic Intelligence, Maritime Patrol Radar and Others. Of all types, the fixed wing segment is projected to account for the largest market share. Fixed-wing drones are equipped with wings (rather than vertical lift rotors), which are similar to the normal airplanes, and are much efficient as compared to other type of drones. On the basis of payload, Electro-Optic/Infrared Sensor segment is dominating the global Military surveillance drones market.The key players of global Military surveillance drones market include Boeing (U.S.), Airbus Corporation (Netherlands), Lockheed Martin (U.S.), Northrop Grumman Corporation (U.S.), Thales Group (France), Elbit Systems Ltd (Israel), Saab Group (Sweden), Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (Israel), AeroVironment, Inc. (U.S.) and General Atomics (U.S.).The report for Global Military surveillance drones market of comprises of extensive primary research along with the detailed analysis of qualitative as well as quantitative aspects by various industry experts, key opinion leaders to gain the deeper insight of the market and industry performance. The report gives the clear picture of current market scenario which includes historical and projected market size in terms of value and volume, technological advancement, macro economical and governing factors in the market. The report provides details information and strategies of the top key players in the industry. The report also gives a broad study of the different market segments and regions.Table of Content: Key Points1 Executive Summary 122 Introduction 143 Research Methodology 164 Market Dynamics 205 Market Factor Analysis 266 Patent Trends 297 Global Military Surveillance Drones Market, By Type 328 Global Military Surveillance Drones Market, By Payload 36ContinuedACCESS REPORT @Get in touch:LinkedIn:Twitter:Facebook:Wise Guy Reports understand how essential statistical surveying information is for your organization or association. Therefore, we have associated with the top publishers and research firms all specialized in specific domains, ensuring you will receive the most reliable and up to date research data available. We also provide COTS (Commercial off the Shelf) business sector reports as custom exploration agreeing your needs.WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersPune - 411028Maharashtra, India
Helicobacter Pylori Diagnostics Market - Global Forecast to 2026

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Helicobacter Pylori Diagnostics Market Insights  Quick Tests Allowing Efficient DiagnosisHelicobacter is a spiral shaped gram-negative bacteria, causing chronic inflammation and infection in stomach and duodenum leading to ulceration. H. pylori is found in 50-80% of patients with gastric ulcers and in 90% of patients with duodenal ulcers. An estimated one in six individuals infected with H. pylori are expected to eventually develop peptic ulcer disease. Infected individuals experience long asymptomatic conditions with nearly 70% of individuals having minimal symptoms such as belching, bloating, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort as occasional, whereas, major symptoms includes abdominal pain, peptic ulcer, bad breath etc. Helicobacter infection can be diagnosed by invasive that requires gastric mucosa samples, which are obtained through endoscopy and used for biopsy or non-invasive tests that requires blood or stool samples. Invasive tests include immunoassay, rapid urease test, and histology whereas non-invasive includes stool antigen assays serology tests and urea breath test.Request Sample Copy of this Business Report @The global Helicobacter pylori diagnostics market size was valued at US$ 437.3 million in 2017 and is expected to witness a CAGR of 7.1% over the forecast period (2018  2026).Increasing prevalence of helicobacter pylori in emerging economies is propelling the Helicobacter pylori diagnostics market growthPrevalence of helicobacter pylori is declining in developed countries, whereas its prevalence in emerging economies is increasing. For instance, according to the Faculty of Medicine of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), 2017, around 4.4 billion people worldwide are infected with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Furthermore, same source suggested that prevalence in Africa is up to 80%, which is the highest globally, while in Asia, over 50% of the population was infected with H. pylori. Moreover, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer report 2014, in 2012, around 952,000 new gastric cancer cases occurred globally and around 734,000 gastric cancers were estimated to occur due to H. pylori infection. Such high prevalence of Helicobacter pylori in Africa and Asia is expected to fuel the regional helicobacter market growth.The limitations associated with diagnostic tests are expected to be a major factor restraining growth of the Helicobacter pylori diagnostics market. For instance, serology-based assays have low sensitivity and specificity, as they are unable to differentiate between active infection and IgG antibodies present in case of post treatment.Africa market to exhibit fastest growth over the forecast periodRegionally, Helicobacter pylori diagnostics market is segmented into - North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa by Coherent Market Insights. North America Helicobacter pylori diagnostic market holds dominant position in the global market and this is attributed to initiatives to provide test kits at low costs to eradicate H. pylori infection. For instance, antibody-based detection tests are available at lower cost for enhancing the eradication of helicobacter pylori infection in Quebec. Moreover, Agence devaluation des technologies et des modes dintervention en sante (AETMIS), an independent body reporting to the Quebec Minister of Health and Social Services, recommends the 13C-urea breath test to be made available in all areas of Quebec. However, Africa Helicobacter pylori diagnostic market is expected to exhibit high CAGR, owing to high prevalence of Helicobacter pylori. According to studies published in Gastroenterology Journal, 2017, the data suggested that Africa has highest prevalence of H. pylori infection, which is around 79%.Ask for customization:Inorganic strategies by key players is fuelling growth of the Helicobacter pylori diagnostics marketKey players involved in the global Helicobacter pylori diagnostics market include Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc., Diasorin S.P.A., Quidel Corporation, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.(Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.), Meridian Bioscience, Inc., Exalenz Bioscience Ltd., Abbott Laboratories, Cardinal Health, Inc., and Halyard Health, Inc.Manufacturers are focusing on inorganic strategies, in order to enhance their product offerings. For instance, Diasorin S.P.A., in September 2017, acquired ELISA technology business from Siemens, with an aim of shifting the current client base that uses ELISA tests towards CLIA technology solutions. As a part of agreement, Siemens will continue to manufacture and supply ELISA immunodiagnostic kits exclusively for DiaSorin for the next three years.About Coherent Market Insights:Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave, #3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com
Energy Efficient Lighting Market: Demand for LFLs to Decline as LEDs Gain Prominence

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The top three players in the global energy-efficient warehouse lighting market, namely Philips Lighting Holding B.V., Eaton, and General Electric Company, accounted for nearly 83% of the overall market in 2015, with Philips and Eaton holding an almost similar percentage of shares. Despite this, the presence of numerous small-sized local players, especially in China, has been giving large, international vendors stiff competition, Transparency Market Research (TMR) has found.Smart lighting technology has emerged as a leading opportunity for companies in the energy-efficient warehouse lighting market, the author of the study states. Smart lighting has the ability to reduce overall energy consumption, which is making it an attractive investment for warehouse owners. As end users become informed about the benefits of automated smart lighting systems, together with modern CFL, LED, and OLED lamps, their sales are expected to rise.Increased R&D activities and partnerships for the development of advanced and energy-efficient lighting systems is also a key strategy adopted by several players. A case in point would be Philips. In February 2016, Koninklijke Philips N.V. separated its lighting business to establish Philips Lighting Holding B.V. This has allowed the company to sharpen its strategic focus toward its core competent business. Later in June 2016, this new business joined hands with Netherlands-based Dummen Orange to conduct R&D activities in the LED segment.Request PDF Brochure:Government Mandates Support Use of Energy-efficient Warehouse LightingThe demand for energy-efficient warehouse lighting has received significant impetus from companies looking to reduce their energy consumption in warehouses, a TMR analyst states. Compared to traditional incandescent lighting systems, advanced and smart lighting solutions such as LED and CFL help companies conserve energy and save on costs. The demand for energy-efficient warehouse lighting has risen with their growing usage in refrigeration, lighting, cooling and ventilation, material handling, and others applications in warehouses.The energy-efficient warehouse lighting market has also been supported by favorable government regulations around the world. For instance, the U.S. government has banned the use of incandescent lighting in warehouse spaces. It has also provided vendors utility rebates, thereby boosting the use of energy-efficient lighting solutions. Several European countries have implemented Energy Performance Certificates, which require commercial spaces to adhere to energy-efficient processes and requirements.In contrast, high initial investments and undefined technology issues discourage numerous companies from making the switch to energy-efficient warehouse lighting.Demand for LFLs to Decline as LEDs Gain ProminenceThe global market for energy-efficient warehouse lighting will witness impressive growth in the coming years, the TMR analyst predicts. Registering a strong CAGR of 13.4% from 2016 to 2024, the opportunity in the market is projected to be worth over US$15 bn by the end of the forecast period, rising from US$4.2 bn in 2014.Asia Pacific has led the energy-efficient warehouse lighting market at the start of the forecast period and will continue its streak through 2024, accounting for a share of over 45% in terms of revenue. By lighting source, linear fluorescent lamps (LFLs) led the overall market in 2014. However, owing to the increasing popularity of and demand for light emitting diodes (LED), the dominance of LFLs is anticipated to be toppled by LEDs.Report TOC:About TMRTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.TMRs data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With extensive research and analysis capabilities, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.Contact TMR90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email:sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Generic E-learning Courses Market 2018 Global Analysis By key Players  Cegos, Macmillan Learning, Pearson Education, Skillsoft

Generic E-learning Courses Market

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Generic E-learning Courses Market 2018Wiseguyreports.Com adds Generic E-learning Courses Market Market Demand, Growth, Opportunities, Analysis of Top Key Players and Forecast to 2025 To Its Research Database.Report Details:This report provides in depth study of Generic E-learning Courses Market using SWOT analysis i.e. Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threat to the organization. The Generic E-learning Courses Market report also provides an in-depth survey of key players in the market which is based on the various objectives of an organization such as profiling, the product outline, the quantity of production, required raw material, and the financial health of the organization.This report studies the global Generic E-learning Courses market size, industry status and forecast, competition landscape and growth opportunity. This research report categorizes the global Generic E-learning Courses market by companies, region, type and end-use industry.E-learning refers to learning through electronic gadgets, such as PCs, notebooks, and tablets. It is backed by ICT that enables users to learn 24/7 learning from any access point. The curriculum of e-learning includes archived and real-time information. There is no set standard of e-learning method used in the education market. Differentiation is primarily based on the type of content delivered and the mode of instruction, which could be classroom based, virtual, or blended learning environment.An augmented demand for distance learning programs is one of the key factors driving the growth of this market globally. Distance learning offers learning opportunities to people across the globe, especially to those who find it difficult to attend universities due to financial, geographical, time constraints. Most distance learning programs are delivered online or in the form of books and CDS. This market is likely to witness significant growth in the coming years as an increasing number of universities in the US have started providing online courses and have added a variety of new courses to their existing programs. One of the main reasons for this is the easy availability of low-cost software platforms that allow these universities to create, deliver, and efficiently manage courses online.North America dominated the global generic e-learning courses market and is expected to reach close to USD 23 billion by 2020. The availability of a good IT infrastructure enables universities in the US and Canada to reach out to their students through virtual classrooms. Factors such as the incorporation of bring your own devices (BYOD) scheme in educational institutions and increasing mobile browsing by students will contribute to the growth of this market in the region.This report focuses on the global top players, coveredCegosMacmillan LearningPearson EducationSkillsoft...Request a Sample Report @Market segment by Regions/Countries, this report coversUnited StatesEuropeChinaJapanSoutheast AsiaIndiaMarket segment by Type, the product can be split intoCoursesContentMarket segment by Application, split intoAcademicCorporateKey StakeholdersGeneric E-learning Courses ManufacturersGeneric E-learning Courses Distributors/Traders/WholesalersGeneric E-learning Courses Subcomponent ManufacturersIndustry AssociationDownstream VendorsIf you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.Complete Report Details@Major Key Points in Table of Content:Global Generic E-learning Courses Market Size, Status and Forecast 20251 Industry Overview of Generic E-learning Courses1.1 Generic E-learning Courses Market Overview1.1.1 Generic E-learning Courses Product Scope1.1.2 Market Status and Outlook1.2 Global Generic E-learning Courses Market Size and Analysis by Regions (2013-2018)1.2.1 United States1.2.2 Europe1.2.3 China1.2.4 Japan1.2.5 Southeast Asia1.2.6 India1.3 Generic E-learning Courses Market by Type1.3.1 Courses1.3.2 Content1.4 Generic E-learning Courses Market by End Users/Application1.4.1 Academic1.4.2 Corporate2 Global Generic E-learning Courses Competition Analysis by Players2.1 Generic E-learning Courses Market Size (Value) by Players (2013-2018)2.2 Competitive Status and Trend2.2.1 Market Concentration Rate2.2.2 Product/Service Differences2.2.3 New Entrants2.2.4 The Technology Trends in Future3 Company (Top Players) Profiles3.1 Cegos3.1.1 Company Profile3.1.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.1.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.1.4 Generic E-learning Courses Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.2 Macmillan Learning3.2.1 Company Profile3.2.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.2.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.2.4 Generic E-learning Courses Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.3 Pearson Education3.3.1 Company Profile3.3.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.3.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.3.4 Generic E-learning Courses Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)3.4 Skillsoft3.4.1 Company Profile3.4.2 Main Business/Business Overview3.4.3 Products, Services and Solutions3.4.4 Generic E-learning Courses Revenue (Million USD) (2013-2018)Continued.Contact Us:NORAH TRENTPh: +1-646-845-9349 (US)Sales@Wiseguyreports.ComPh: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.ADDRESS:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India
Scoliosis Management Market Opportunity Analysis, 2018-2026

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Scoliosis is a medical condition that causes an abnormal curve of the backbone or spine. It is mostly diagnosed in early adolescence or in childhood. In scoliosis, a persons spine has sideway curve, which forms C or S shape. The cause of scoliosis in still unknown, however, it might be due to a combination of environmental and hereditary factors. It can also be caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy, tumors, muscles spasms, and Marfan syndrome. There are various signs and symptoms associated with scoliosis, which includes one shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other, pain in the neck & back, uneven shoulder area, respiratory/cardiac problems in severe cases, and constipation due to curvature causing stomach or intestines tightening. Diagnosis of scoliosis can be done with a normal X-ray imaging technique that can reveal the severity of the spinal curvature. On the basis of product type, the scoliosis management market is segmented into thoracolumbosacral orthosis (TLSO), cervical thoracic lumbar sacral orthosis (CTLSO), and lumbosacral orthosis (LSO).Request Sample Copy of this Business Report @Scoliosis Management Market DynamicsThe global scoliosis management market is witnessing significant growth due to the prevalence of scoliosis globally. According to an article published in the Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation in 2014, scoliosis occurs in around 3% of people globally, most commonly among girls. Moreover, increasing government and private intervention in the field of research and clinical studies have also propelled scoliosis management market growth significantly. For instance, in 2013, the National Institutes of Health trial study found that bracing considerably decreases the risk of curve progression and the need for surgery in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Success rates of around 90 to 93 percent reduction in the curve progression after wearing a brace for more than an average of 13 hours per day was observed in the trial study. This study was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Shriners Hospitals for Children, the University of Rochester, and the Childrens Miracle Network. Furthermore, increased utilization of healthcare services by patients with scoliosis conditions is driving growth of the global scoliosis management market. For instance, according to the United Sates Bone and Joint Initiative report, around 229,000 adults were hospitalized with scoliosis in 2011.However, limited understanding of this medical condition and high treatment cost are hampering growth of the scoliosis management market. For instance, according to a study published in The Spine Journal 2010, the average mean costs of nonsurgical care in adult scoliosis were estimated to be as high as US$ 14,000 for duration of 2 years.Scoliosis Management Market  Regional InsightsOn the basis of region, the global scoliosis management market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa, and Middle East. North America scoliosis management market accounted for the largest market share, owing to increasing prevalence of scoliosis in the region. For instance, according to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, around six to nine million people in the U.S. are affected by scoliosis, estimated 38,000 patients undergo spinal fusion surgery, and around 30,000 children are fitted with a brace every year. Moreover, wide availability of products offering better solutions to the patients and increasing healthcare infrastructure are propelling growth of the scoliosis management market.Moreover, Asia Pacific is expected to witness substantial growth in the scoliosis management market over the forecast period, followed by Europe, owing to increasing prevalence of scoliosis and adoption of new technologies for the treatment of scoliosis. For instance, researchers from the Xiao Feng Spinal Deformity Studio and National Rehabilitation Aids Research Center in Beijing created country's first customized 3D printed back brace for the treatment of scoliosis in 2015.Table of Content (ToC) at a glance @Scoliosis Management Market  Competitive LandscapeKey players operating in the global scoliosis management market include Lawall Prosthetics and Orthotics, Aspen Medical Products, Boston Orthotics & Prosthetics, Horton's Orthotics & Prosthetics, Pro-Tech Orthopedics, Orthotech, Wilmington Orthotics & Prosthetics, Inc., Spinal Technology, Inc., Ortholutions GmbH & Co. KG, and Ossur. Market players are engaged in developing new technologies, in order to hold dominant position in the market. For instance, in 2014, 3D Systems launched its 3D printed bespoke braces for scoliosis treatment.Coherent Market Insights is a prominent market research and consulting firm offering action-ready syndicated research reports, custom market analysis, consulting services, and competitive analysis through various recommendations related to emerging market trends, technologies, and potential absolute dollar opportunity.Mr. ShahCoherent Market Insights1001 4th Ave, #3200Seattle, WA 98154Tel: +1-206-701-6702Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com
Opportunities for the global switchgear market to reach $110.7 billion by 2023

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According to a new market report published by Lucintel, the future of the switchgear market looks attractive with opportunities in the utilities, industrial, residential, and commercial sectors. The global switchgear market is expected to reach an estimated $110.7 billion by 2023 and is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.7% from 2018 to 2023. The major growth drivers for this market are increasing demand for electricity, growing implementation of smart grid technology, and continuing investment in upgrading transmission and distribution systems.In this market, low voltage, medium voltage, and high voltage switchgear are used to control and protect electric power systems. Lucintel forecasts that the low voltage switchgear is expected to remain the largest segment and is expected to experience the highest growth during the forecast period due to increasing construction activities and renewable energy installations.Within the switchgear market, utilities will remain the largest end use market due to the continuous expansion in electrical infrastructure to fulfill growing electricity demand. Switchgear for the residential end use is expected to witness the highest growth in the forecast period supported by growing urbanization and rapid electrification.Asia Pacific is expected to remain the largest market and is also expected to witness the highest growth over the forecast period. Increasing electricity demand due to growing population, economic expansion, urbanization, industrialization, and rural electrification projects, particularly in India and China, are leading the demand for switchgear.Emerging trends, which have a direct impact on the dynamics of the industry, include the development of digital switchgear and growing focus on eco-efficient switchgear. ABB, General Electric, Schneider Electric, Mitsubishi, Siemens AG, Eaton, Hitachi, and CG Power and Industrial Solutions are the major suppliers of switchgear.Lucintel, a leading global strategic consulting and market research firm, has analyzed growth opportunities in the global switchgear market by voltage, product, end use, and region and has come up with a comprehensive research report entitled Growth Opportunities in the Global Switchgear Market 2018-2023: Trends, Forecast, and Opportunity Analysis. The Lucintel report serves as a catalyst for growth strategy as it provides a comprehensive data and analysis on trends, key drivers, and directions. The study includes a forecast for the global switchgear market by voltage, product, end use, and region as follows:By Voltage Type [$B shipment analysis from 2012 to 2023]: High Voltage Medium Voltage Low VoltageBy Product Type [$B shipment analysis from 2012 to 2023]: Other Low Voltage Switchgear Metal Enclosed & Metal Clad MCCB Fuse Power Circuit Breaker Other Medium & High Voltage SwitchgearBy End Use Industry [$B shipment analysis from 2012 to 2023]: Utilities Industrial Residential CommercialBy Region [$B shipment analysis for 2012  2023]: North America United States Canada Mexico Europe United Kingdom Germany France Italy Asia Pacific Japan China India South Korea The Rest of the World Saudi Arabia Brazil South AfricaThis 168-page research report will enable you to make confident business decisions in this globally competitive marketplace. For a detailed table of contents, contact Lucintel at +1-972-636-5056 or helpdesk@lucintel.com. Lucintel offerings include energy market report, energy industry, commercial due diligence report, business strategy consulting and market research reports online.This report answers following 11 key questions:Q.1. What are some of the most promising, high-growth opportunities for the global switchgear market by voltage (high voltage, medium voltage, and low voltage), by product (other low voltage switchgear, metal enclosed & metal clad, MCCB, fuse, power circuit breaker, and other medium & high voltage switchgear), by end use (utilities, industrial, commercial and residential) and by region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World)?Q.2. Which segments will grow at a faster pace and why?Q.3. Which region will grow at a faster pace and why?Q.4. What are the key factors affecting market dynamics? What are the key challenges and business risks in this market?Q.5. What are the business risks and competitive threats in this market?Q.6. What are the emerging trends in this market and the reasons behind them?Q.7. What are some of the changing demands of customers in the market?Q.8. What are the new developments in the market? Which companies are leading these developments?Q.9. Who are the major players in this market? What strategic initiatives are key players pursuing for business growth?Q.10. What are some of the competing products in this market and how big of a threat do they pose for loss of market share by material or product substitution?Q.11. What M&A activity has occurred in the last 5 years and what has its impact been on the industry?Lucintel, the premier global management consulting and market research firm, creates winning strategies for growth. It offers market assessments, competitive analysis, opportunity analysis, growth consulting, M&A, and due diligence services to executives and key decision-makers in a variety of industries. For further information, visitLucintel LLCLucintel, 8951 Cypress Waters Blvd., Suite 160, Dallas, TX 75019Ph: +1-972-636-5056 Fax: +1-877-883-5140marketing@lucintel.com
Parasoft named an Omnichannel Functional Test Automation Leader

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Parasoft, the global leader in automated software testing, today announced its position as a leader in "The Forrester Wave: Omnichannel Functional Test Automation Tools, Q3 2018", where it received the highest scores possible in the API Testing and Automation and Product Road Map criteria. The report notes Parasofts impressive and concrete road map to increase test automation from design to execution, pushing autonomous testing.Parasoft will be showcasing its technology and discussing the future of testing in an upcoming webinar, The Future of Test Automation: Next-Generation Technologies to Use Today on August 23rd. To register, go to Parasoft Webpage.According to the report, conducted by Forresters Diego Lo Giudice, Parasoft shined in our evaluation specifically around effective test maintenance, strong CI/CD and application lifecycle management (ALM) platform integration, as well as reporting through its analytics system PIE. Clients like the recent changes, and all reference customers reported achieving test automation of more than 50% in the past 12 months.After examining past research, user need assessments, and vendor and expert interviews, Forrester evaluated 15 omnichannel functional test automation tool vendors across a comprehensive 26-criteria to help organizations working on enterprise, mobile, and web applications select the right tool. According to the report, continuous and smarter test automation and technology breadth are key differentiators in this space.After seeing the industry struggle to effectively adopt test automation, we became laser-focused on developing new technologies that would help our customers achieve efficient testing strategies, especially within omni-channel test automation, said Elizabeth Kolawa, Parasoft CEO. To make software testing automation efforts easier and to help our customers achieve higher levels of automation, weve introduced machine learning and AI  and this is just the beginning. We are honored by this recognition from Forrester.To read a complimentary copy of this valuable report from one of the worlds top analyst firms, click hereAbout Parasoft:Parasoft provides innovative tools that automate time-consuming testing tasks and provide management with intelligent analytics necessary to focus on what matters. Parasoft technologies reduce time, effort, and cost of delivering secure, reliable, and compliant software, by integrating static and runtime analysis; unit, functional and API testing; and service virtualization. Parasoft supports software organizations as they develop and deploy applications in the embedded, enterprise and IoT markets. With developer testing tools, manager reporting/analytics and executive dashboarding, Parasoft enables organizations to succeed in todays most strategic development initiatives  agile, continuous testing, DevOps, and security.Parasoft Corp. Headquarters; 101 E. Huntington Drive; Monrovia, CA 91016USA;info@parasoft.comPress Contacts:Parasoft Corp., Erika Barron, Tel. +1-626-275-2434; erika@parasoft.comAgentur Lorenzoni GmbH, Public Relations,Beate Lorenzoni, Tel: +49 8122 55917-22; beate@lorenzoni.de
Laser Cutting Machine Market Segment by Applications, Manufacturers, Regions and Forecast to 2022

Laser Cutting Machine Market

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WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On  Laser Cutting Machine Market Segment by Applications, Manufacturers, Regions and Forecast to 2022.The report covers forecast and analysis for the laser cutting machine market on a global and regional level. The study provides historic data of 2012-2016 along with a forecast from 2017 to 2022 based on both volumes and revenue. The study includes drivers and restraints for the laser cutting machine market along with the impact they have on the demand over the forecast period. Additionally, the report includes the study of opportunities available in the laser cutting machine market on a global level.Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comThe report has been prepared based on the synthesis, analysis, and interpretation of information about the global laser cutting machine market collected from specialized sources. The competitive landscape section of the report provides a clear insight into the market share analysis of key industry players. Company overview, financial overview, product portfolio, new project launched, recent development analysis are the parameters included in the profile.The study provides a decisive view on the laser cutting machine market by segmenting the market based on applications. All the application segments have been analyzed based on present and future trends and the market is estimated from 2017 to 2022.Key Product Types CO2 Laser Fiber Laser Solid-state LaserKey Applications Automotive Aerospace and Defense Electrical and Electronics MachineryKey Regions North America Europe Asia PacificKey Vendors Coherent Trumpf Rofin-Sinar Laser IPG Photonics Bystronic Alpha Laser Prima Industries Trotec Laser Universal Laser Systems Xenetech Global NISSAN TANAKA KOIKE Mazak AMADA Jiatai Laser HGTECH Shenzhen Han's Laser Technology Golden Laser Boye Laser Kaitian Laser Wuhan GN LaserKey Questions Answered in this Report What will the market size be in 2022? What are the key factors driving the global laser cutting machine market? What are the challenges to market growth? Who are the key players in the laser cutting machine market? What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key players?Ask Query @Table Of Contents  Major Key PointsPart 1. Exclusive SummaryPart 2. Methodology2.1 Research Methodology2.2 Geographic Scope2.3 Years ConsideredPart 3. Competitive Landscape3.1 Global Laser Cutting Machine Market, by Volume 2012-20173.1.1 Overview3.1.2 Global Laser Cutting Machine Market, by Volume, by Company3.1.3 Top 5 Companies by Volume Share3.2 Global Laser Cutting Machine Market, by Revenue 2012-20173.2.1 Overview3.2.2 Global Laser Cutting Machine Market, by Revenue, by Company3.2.3 Top 5 Companies by Revenue SharePart 4. Market Dynamics4.1 Market Drivers4.2 Challenges4.3 Market TrendsPart 5. Segmentation by Type5.1 Overview5.2 CO2 Laser5.3 Fiber Laser5.4 Solid-state LaserPart 6. Segmentation by Application6.1 Overview6.2 Automotive6.3 Aerospace and Defense6.4 Electrical and Electronics6.5 MachineryPart 7. Segmentation by Region7.1 Global Laser Cutting Machine Volume by Region7.1.1 North America7.1.2 Europe7.1.3 Asia-Pacific7.2 Global Laser Cutting Machine Revenue by Region7.2.1 North America7.2.2 Europe7.2.3 Asia-Pacific7.3 Global Laser Cutting Machine Consumption by Region7.3.1 North America7.3.2 Europe7.3.3 Asia-PacificPart 8. Laser Cutting Machine Market Forecast8.1 Global Laser Cutting Machine Market Size 2017-20228.2 Global Laser Cutting Machine Market by Region 2017-20228.2.1 North America8.2.2 Europe8.2.3 Asia-Pacific8.3 Global Laser Cutting Machine Consumption 2017-20228.4 Global Laser Cutting Machine Market by Application 2017-20228.5 Global Laser Cutting Machine Market by Type 2017-2022Part 9. Company Profiles10.1 Coherent9.1.1 Business Overview9.1.2 Products Offered9.1.3 Financials10.2 Trumpf10.3 Rofin-Sinar Laser10.4 IPG Photonics10.5 Bystronic10.6 Alpha Laser10.7 Prima Industries10.8 Trotec Laser10.9 Universal Laser Systems10.10 Xenetech Global10.11 NISSAN TANAKA10.12 KOIKE10.13 Mazak10.14 AMADA10.15 Jiatai Laser10.16 HGTECH10.17 Shenzhen Han's Laser Technology10.18 Golden Laser10.19 Boye Laser10.20 Kaitian Laser10.21 Wuhan GN Laser...Part 10. Industry Activity10.1 M&As, JVs and Partnership10.2 New Product Launches10.3 Other DevelopmentsContinuedFor more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028.
Liver Cancer Market 2018 Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Strategies and Forecast to 2025

Liver Cancer Market

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Liver Cancer Market 2018Wiseguyreports.Com adds Liver Cancer Market Market Demand, Growth, Opportunities, Analysis of Top Key Players and Forecast to 2025 To Its Research Database.Report Details:This report provides in depth study of Liver Cancer Market using SWOT analysis i.e. Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threat to the organization. The Liver Cancer Market report also provides an in-depth survey of key players in the market which is based on the various objectives of an organization such as profiling, the product outline, the quantity of production, required raw material, and the financial health of the organization.Black Swan Analysis Epiomic Epidemiology Series Forecast Report on Liver Cancer in 18 Major MarketsLiver Cancer, also known as hepatic cancer or primary liver cancer, is a cancer which starts in the cells of the liver. The most common form is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) which originates from hepatocytes, the most abundant cell type in the liver, although other cell types in the liver can also become cancerous.This report provides the current incident population for Liver Cancer across 18 Major Markets (USA, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, Brazil, Japan, India, China, Turkey, Mexico, Russia, Argentina, Australia, Saudi Arabia and South Africa) split by gender and 5-year age cohort. Along with the current incidence, the report also contains a disease overview of the risk factors, disease diagnosis and prognosis along with specific variations by geography and ethnicity.Providing a value-added level of insight from the analysis team at Black Swan, several of the main symptoms and co-morbidities of Liver Cancer have been quantified and presented alongside the overall incidence figures. These sub-populations within the main disease are also included at a country level across the 10-year forecast snapshot.Main symptoms and co-morbidities for Liver Cancer include: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Liver Cirrhosis Hepatitis C Hepatitis BRequest a Sample Report @This report is built using data and information sourced from the proprietary Epiomic patient segmentation database. To generate accurate patient population estimates, the Epiomic database utilises a combination of several world class sources that deliver the most up to date information form patient registries, clinical trials and epidemiology studies. All of the sources used to generate the data and analysis have been identified in the report.Reason to buy Able to quantify patient populations in global Liver Cancers market to target the development of future products, pricing strategies and launch plans. Gain further insight into the incidence of the subdivided types of Liver Cancer and identify patient segments with high potential. Delivery of more accurate information for clinical trials in study sizing and realistic patient recruitment for various countries. Provide a level of understanding on the impact from specific co-morbid conditions on Liver Cancers incident population. Identify sub-populations within Liver Cancer which require treatment. Gain an understanding of the specific markets that have the largest number of Liver Cancer patients.This report has a complete understanding of market value and quantity, technological progress, macro-economic and governmental policy based on past and present data along with the current and upcoming trends in the market.If you have any special requirements, please let us know and we will offer you the report as you want.Complete Report Details@Major Key Points in Table of Content:Table of Contents List of Tables and Figures Introduction Cause of the Disease Risk Factors & Prevention Diagnosis of the Disease Variation by Geography/Ethnicity Disease Prognosis & Clinical Course Key comorbid conditions/features associated with the disease Methodology for quantification of patient numbers Top-line estimated incidence for Liver Cancer Features of Liver Cancer patientso AJCC Stagingo Histopathologyo Markers of liver functiono Hepatitiso Other markers and features of liver cancer Abbreviations used in the report Other Black Swan Analysis Publications Black Swan Analysis Online Patient-Based Databases Patient-Based Offering Online Pricing Data and Platforms References AppendixList of Tables Comparison of HCC Staging systems American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM Staging for Liver Tumours Child Turcotte-Pugh Score Incidence of Liver Cancer, total (000s) Incidence of Liver Cancer, males (000s) Incidence of Liver Cancer, females (000s) Liver cancer patients by AJCC stage, total (000s) Lymph Nodes and Distant Metastases, total (000s) Histopathology of liver cancer patients, total (000s) Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) Positive / Elevated, total (000s) Fibrosis Score F1: Severe Fibrosis / Cirrhosis, total (000s) Hepatitis B seropositive, total (000s) Hepatitis C seropositive, total (000s) Cachexia, total (000s) PDL-1 expressed, total (000s) Abbreviations and Acronyms used in the report USA Incidence of Liver Cancer by 5-yr age cohort, males (000s) USA Incidence of Liver Cancer by 5-yr age cohort, females (000s)Continued.Contact Us:NORAH TRENTPh: +16468459349 (US)Sales@Wiseguyreports.ComPh: +44 208 133 9349 (UK)ABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.ADDRESS:WISE GUY RESEARCH CONSULTANTS PVT LTDOffice No. 528, Amanora ChambersMagarpatta Road, HadapsarPune - 411028Maharashtra, India
East Africa Baby Diapers Market: Outlook, Competitive Landscape and Forecasts 2024

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The market for baby diapers in East Africa has gained substantial traction in the past few years owing to a notable decline in infant mortality rate, rise in disposable incomes, and increased awareness regarding the need to maintain hygiene to ensure the healthy growth of infants. A vast surge in the regions urban and educated population and efforts undertaken by government and non-government organizations to increase awareness about personal hygiene across rural parts of the region have equally contributed to the development of the market in the past few years.Transparency Market Research estimates that the East Africa baby diapers market will expand at a healthy CAGR of 3.6% from 2016 through 2024. Rising at this pace, the market will rise from a valuation of US$155.7 mn in 2015 to US$218.7 mn by 2024. Volume-wise, the market will exhibit a 3.2% CAGR over the period.Preview Report @Baby Diaper Market in Kenya Emerges Leading Contributor in Terms of RevenueKenya, estimated by the World Bank to be the fastest growing economy in East Africa, is presently the largest market in the East Africa baby diapers market, in terms of both volume-wise consumption and revenues. The baby diapers market in the country accounted for a 42.7% share in the overall markets revenues in 2015. Volume-wise, the country accounted for over 40% of the East Africa baby diapers market in the same year.Large population base, a notable reduction in child mortality rates, stable growth of economy in the past few years, and rising disposable incomes are the key factors driving the baby diapers market in the country. Over the period between 2016 and 2024 as well, the country is expected to retain its dominance in the East Africa baby diapers market.Get PDF Sample of Report @Tanzania is the second largest revenue contributor to the East Africa baby diapers market, accounting for over 24% share in the market in 2015, and is expected to expand at a healthy pace over the forecasting horizon as well. Uganda is the third largest country for the baby diapers market in East Africa. All the three countries are expected to maintain their positions in the overall market through 2024.Disposable Diapers are Leading Product Type but Cotton Diapers Present Sizeable OpportunityOf the key product varieties available in the East Africa baby diapers market, the segment of disposable diapers is presently the most popular and leading revenue generator. The segment held a share of over 80% in the East Africa baby diapers markets revenues in 2015. Volume-wise, the segment fared even better, accounting for over 91% share in the market in the same year. Disposable diapers are expected to remain the dominant product segment in the East Africa baby diapers market over the next few years as well. However, their popularity is witnessing a notable decline owing to concerns about adverse long-term health effects and short-term skin rashes with their continuous use.Download TOC@These concerns are also stimulating the increased demand for cotton diapers, the product varieties that contain no harmful chemicals and are considered safer than most varieties of disposable diapers. The demand for cotton diapers is also surging in East Africa owing to the rising awareness about environment safety the need to switch to biodegradable products. The segment of cotton diapers is expected to expand at a high CAGR of 5.8% over the period between 2016 and 2024, rising from a valuation of US$13.5 mn in 2015 to US$23.0 mn by 2024.Some of the leading vendors operating in the East Africa baby diapers market are Unicharm Corporation, Procter and Gamble, Indevco Group, Johnson and Johnson, SCA Hygiene, Interconsumer Products Ltd., and Mega Soft (Fujian) Hygiene Products Co. LtdAbout UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company providing business information reports and services. The companys exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trend analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.TMRs data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With extensive research and analysis capabilities, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques to develop distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.ContactTransparency Market ResearchState Tower,90 State Street,Suite 700,Albany NY - 12207United StatesTel: +1-518-618-1030USA - Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:Research Blog:
Fundus Camera Market by Manufacturers,Types,Regions and Applications Research Report Forecast to 2022

Fundus Camera Market

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WiseGuyReports.Com Publish a New Market Research Report On  Fundus Camera Market by Manufacturers,Types,Regions and Applications Research Report Forecast to 2022.The global market for fundus camera will grow at a CAGR of 4.9% by 2022, according to a new report published by Gen Consulting Company. The report segments the market and forecasts its size, by volume and value, on the basis of application (Hospital, Clinic, etc.), and by geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA and South America).The report covers forecast and analysis for the fundus camera market on a global and regional level. The study provides historic data of 2012-2016 along with a forecast from 2017 to 2022 based on both output/volume and revenue. The study then describes the drivers and restraints for the fundus camera market along with the impact they have on the demand over the forecast period. Additionally, the report includes the study of opportunities available in the fundus camera market on a global level.Get a Sample Report @For more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comThe report has been prepared based on the synthesis, analysis, and interpretation of information about the global fundus camera market collected from specialized sources. The competitive landscape section of the report provides a clear insight into the market share analysis of key industry players. Company overview, financial overview, product portfolio, new project launched, recent development analysis are the parameters included in the profile.Demand for this market rises from the Hospital, Clinic, and other applications. All the segments have been analyzed based on present and future trends and the market is estimated from 2017 to 2022. Relevantly, the report and company profiles specify the key drivers that are impacting the demand in global fundus camera market.Key Applications Hospital ClinicKey Regions North America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East and Africa South AmericaKey Vendors Topcon Kowa C.S.O. SRL Carl Zeiss Canon Nidek Optomed Oy Heine Essilor Volk Optical 66 Vision Sunkingdom Wenzhou Raymond Crystalvue Suzhou MicroClear request free sample to get a complete list of companiesKey Questions Answered in this Report What will the market size be in 2022? What are the key factors driving the global fundus camera market? What are the challenges to market growth? Who are the key players in the fundus camera market? What are the market opportunities and threats faced by the key players?Ask Query @Table Of Contents  Major Key PointsPart 1. Exclusive SummaryPart 2. Methodology2.1 Research Methodology2.2 Geographic Scope2.3 Years ConsideredPart 3. Introduction3.1 General Information3.2 Fields of ApplicationPart 4. Competitive Landscape4.1 Global Fundus Camera Market, by Volume 2012-20174.1.1 Overview4.1.2 Global Fundus Camera Market, by Volume, by Company4.1.3 Top 3 Companies by Volume Share4.2 Global Fundus Camera Market, by Revenue 2012-20174.2.1 Overview4.2.2 Global Fundus Camera Market, by Revenue, by Company4.2.3 Top 3 Companies by Revenue SharePart 5. Market Dynamics5.1 Market Drivers5.2 Challenges5.3 Market TrendsPart 6. Segmentation by Application6.1 Overview6.2 Global Fundus Camera Market by Application (Volume)6.3 Global Fundus Camera Market by Application (Revenue)Part 7. Supply by Region7.1 Global Fundus Camera Volume by Region7.1.1 North America7.1.2 Europe7.1.3 Asia-Pacific7.1.4 Middle East and Africa7.1.5 South America7.2 Global Fundus Camera Revenue by Region7.2.1 North America7.2.2 Europe7.2.3 Asia-Pacific7.2.4 Middle East and Africa7.2.5 South AmericaPart 8. Consumption Pattern8.1 North America8.1.1 Overview8.1.2 by Application8.1.3 by Country (U.S., Canada, etc.)8.2 Europe8.2.1 Overview8.2.2 by Application8.2.3 by country (Germany, UK, France, Italy, Spain, etc.)8.3 Asia-Pacific8.3.1 Overview8.3.2 by Application8.3.3 by Country (China, Japan, India, Korea, Australia, Indonesia, etc.)8.4 Middle East and Africa8.4.1 Overview8.4.2 by Application8.4.3 by Country (Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, UAE, etc.)8.5 South America8.5.1 Overview8.5.2 by Application8.5.3 by Country (Brazil, Argentina, etc.)Part 9. Fundus Camera Market Forecast9.1 Global Fundus Camera Market Size 2017-20229.2 Global Fundus Camera Market by Region 2017-20229.2.1 North America9.2.2 Europe9.2.3 Asia-Pacific9.2.4 Middle East and Africa9.2.5 South America9.3 Global Fundus Camera Consumption 2017-20229.4 Global Fundus Camera Market by Application 2017-2022ContinuedFor more information or any query mail at sales@wiseguyreports.comABOUT US:Wise Guy Reports is part of the Wise Guy Consultants Pvt. Ltd. and offers premium progressive statistical surveying, market research reports, analysis & forecast data for industries and governments around the globe. Wise Guy Reports features an exhaustive list of market research reports from hundreds of publishers worldwide. We boast a database spanning virtually every market category and an even more comprehensive collection of market research reports under these categories and sub-categories.Office No.528,Amanora Chambers,Magarpatta Road,Hadapsar,Pune-411028.
Europe Heparin Market is Projected to Expand at a CAGR of 5.2% to Reach US$3.5 Bn in 2024

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The Heparin Market in Europe is rather consolidated, with the Sanofi, Aspen, Pfizer, and Leo Pharma accounting for over 65% of the market in 2015. In a new study, Transparency Market Research (TMR) has found that Sanofi is the clear leader in the Europe heparin market, enjoying a 47.5% share in 2015. Increased global sales of Lovenox can be attributed to the companys success.A focus on the expansion of R&D activities, in-licensing and acquisitions, and portfolio management are the key strategies adopted by the market leader, the author of the study finds. In 2015, the company spent over US$5 bn on the research and development of 18 new medicines and vaccines. Companies in the heparin market in Europe are also emphasizing on key BRIC-M countries, developing market-specific innovations, and prioritizing resource allocation.Request to View Sample of Report -Rise in Incidence of Coagulation and Renal Disorders Spurring Demand for HeparinThe recall of heparin products imported from China in 2008 was a turning point in the heparin market across the globe. The presence of a high level of allergenic substances in heparin products imported from China resulted in over a 100 deaths in the U.S. Tainted supplies were also found in several European countries, forcing the implementation of strict regulations regarding the use of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) produced outside the European Economic Area (EEA).This event spurred the domestic development of crude and API heparin and a number of companies entered the heparin processing business in the years that followed. This has had a significant impact on the growth of the heparin market in Europe, a lead analyst at TMR comments.The heparin market in Europe is also fueled by the growing incidence of coagulation disorders such as venous thromboembolism (VTE). These disorders cause nearly half a million deaths in the region each year, even more than the collective deaths caused by breast and prostate cancer, AIDS, and highway accidents, the author of the study finds.Request to View Brochure of Report -Low-molecular-weight Heparin to Register Remarkable Growth by 2024The opportunity in the Europe heparin market is estimated to be worth US$3.4 bn by 2024, rising from US$2.2 bn in 2015. The market is projected to register a steady CAGR of 5.2% from 2016 to 2024. Among the key product types, low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) accounted for a massive share of close to 80% in 2015, emerging as the leading segment. Generating a revenue of US$2.9 bn by the end of the forecast period, LMWH is also anticipated to post substantial growth, registering a 5.8% CAGR from 2016 to 2024. Unfractionated heparin, on the other hand, will grow at a sluggish pace.On the basis of end user, hospitals led the heparin market in Europe by value and are also anticipated to expand at the most rapid pace by 2024. By region, Germany contributed majority of the heparin market share in 2015. In addition to Germany, France, Belgium, and Portugal are likely to register the highest growth rates throughout the forecast period.View Report -About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Psoriasis Treatment Market will Attain a Worth of US$12.1 Bn by 2024

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The global market for psoriasis is characterized by stiff competition at present. This is because of savvy players pouring money into research and development of various potential treatment of psoriasis. Going forward, the competitive rivalry among the players is expected to rise further. Some of the key players in the market are Biogen, LEO Pharma, AstraZeneca, Pfizer, and AbbVie.A recently added report by Transparency Market Research on the global Psoriasis Treatment Market estimates that it will attain a worth of US$12.1 bn by 2024-end from US$7.8 bn in 2015 by registering a CAGR of 5.10% between 2016 and 2024.Product-wise, TNF inhibitors is generating maximum sales in the market on account of their efficacy and safety. Our team of analysts predict the product to remain the top grosser in the near future as well. They estimate it to account for a significant 47.0% share in the overall market by the end of 2024. Geographically, North America is a dominant region in the market for psoriasis treatment because of a large pool of patients inflicted with the medical condition in the region. Presence of numerous big ticket drug makers in the region is also predicted to bode well for the market in the years to come.Request to View Sample of Report -Manufacturers Ramp up Capacities Expecting Surge in DemandAt the forefront of catalyzing growth in the global market for psoriasis treatment is obviously the rising instances of the medical condition. As per the WHO, the number of cases has reached 11.4% from just 4.8% from 1970 to 2008. With the number set to rise even further, demand is primed to grow. Realizing it, savvy players in the market are already seen expanding manufacturing capacities or coming up with new ones to bump up production.Apart from that, approval of biological drugs by the FDA is also encouraging investors to plough in a lot of money into research and development of new ones. This is also proving beneficial for the market. Further strengthening healthcare infrastructure resulting in better access to a range of treatments in developing countries, along with a strong distribution pipeline are other factors positively impacting the trajectory of the market for psoriasis treatment.Request to View Brochure of Report -Steep Price of Biologics Poses Challenge to MarketTNF inhibitors and biosimilars are the two main types of products that are raking in most of the revenue in the market at present. However, the steep cost of biologics may serve to dampen sales thereby slowing down the pace of the growth of the market for psoriasis. Besides, loss of response to the current therapies is another major obstruction the market needs to overcome.A noticeable trend in the market for psoriasis treatment is the focus of players on emerging markets in Asia Pacific and Latin America that hold out a lot of promise.View Report -About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Gastrointestinal Drugs Market is Anticipated to be Worth US$61.1 Bn by 2024

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The global Gastrointestinal Drugs Market is consolidated with the top three players accounting for a whopping 61% of the market collectively in 2016. These three players are: Valeant Pharmaceuticals Inc., Janssen Biotech Inc., and Takeda Pharmaceutical. While the market is moderately competitive at present, future holds much competitiveness among players and thus, the degree of competition is expected to be increase in the forecast period, states a report by Transparency Market Research (TMR). Some of the other players in the market are: Bayer AG, Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH Sanofi, Allergan Plc, AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, Allergan Plc., and Abbott Laboratories.As per the research report, the global gastrointestinal drugs market is anticipated to be worth US$61.1 bn by 2024. By drug class, acid neutralizers segment not led in the past, but is also expected to remain in the leading position in the coming years. This is because, acid neutralizers are cost effective and also because the increasing prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), will drive this segment.Request to View Sample of Report -Asia Pacific to Emerge Most Lucrative in Gastrointestinal Drugs MarketOn the basis of geography, the global gastrointestinal drugs market is expected to be led by North America. Favorable reimbursement policies, and increasing geriatric population, who are more prone to gastrointestinal disorders, will drive the regions growth during the forecast period from 2016 to 2024. North America held 41% of the market in 2016. Europe has also been witnessing healthy growth and is anticipated to continue being an attractive region for gastrointestinal drugs market. The emergence of biosimilars for treating inflammatory bowel diseases will also be a key growth driver for the market in Europe, says a TMR analyst. However, Asia Pacific is estimated to be the region with maximum opportunities for growth in the coming years. The growing investments and funding in the field of life science research and advanced therapies for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases in developing nations such as China and India will fuel the growth of the Asia Pacific market.Rising Awareness about Availability of Treatment Options Driving Demand for Gastrointestinal DrugsA report published by World Gastroenterology Organization states that around 15 to 25% of the people across the globe are suffering from gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). This is positively impacting the demand for gastrointestinal drugs. The growing awareness about the disease and the increasing availability of treatment options is boosting the growth of the market. The growing investments in research and development activities for innovation of new drugs will further the growth of the market.Request to View Brochure of Report -Unavailability of Permanent Cure to Pose a Challenge for Market PlayersThe etiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains a mystery and this is expected to hamper the growth of the global gastrointestinal drugs market. The lack of permanent cure for gastrointestinal diseases will also act as a challenge for market players. On the positive side, the consistent technological advancements in the treatment therapies of gastrointestinal diseases are projected to reduce the impact of the aforementioned restraints, states a TMR analyst.View Report -About UsTransparency Market Research (TMR) is a market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of analysts, researchers, and consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather, and analyze information. Our business offerings represent the latest and the most reliable information indispensable for businesses to sustain a competitive edge.US Office Contact90 State Street, Suite 700Albany, NY 12207Tel: +1-518-618-1030USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453Email: sales@transparencymarketresearch.comWebsite:
Agricultural Robots Market worth $11,050 Million by 2023

Agricultural Robots Market - AMR

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The global agricultural robots market was valued at $2,927 million in 2016, and is expected to reach $11,050 million by 2023, registering a CAGR of 21% from 2017 to 2023. Asia-Pacific is expected to exhibit high potential, owing to the growth in the agricultural industry as a resultant of exponential increase in demand for food production.Growth in population, high requirement for food, rise in popularity of indoor farming, common climate variations, and surge in adoption of automation technology are expected to drive the global agricultural robots market during the forecast period.Request Sample Copy@Dominating Market Players Profiled in this Study:AGCOAutonomous Solutions Inc.Autonomous Tractor CorporationClearpath RoboticsDeepfield RoboticsDeLavalGEA GroupHarvest AutomationJohn DeereLelyHowever, restricted awareness about these robots among the farmers and incapability of the robots to match to human-like dexterity impede the market growth. The agricultural robots market is segmented on the basis of type, application and geography. The milking robots segment dominates the market, accounting for $6,555 million in 2016, registering a CAGR of 7% during the forecast period.Agricultural robots are gaining traction among the farmers, owing to the need for producing food products effectively and ensuring sustainability. These robots are deployed to speed the farming processes with minimal human interventions. Various agricultural robots are programmed to perform different farming processes such as field farming, dairy farming, seed sorting, soil management, and others. High requirement for modernized and sustainable farming processes to produce faster yields is expected to drive the global agricultural robots market over the forecast period.Purchase Inquiry@Based on application, the dairy management segment is expected to generate the maximum revenue during the forecast period, accounting for 61.3% share by 2023.Key Findings of the Agricultural Robots Market:The dairy management application accounted for a market share of 29.13% in 2016, and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 22.1% during the forecast period.Among the type segment, the driverless tractors are expected to witness the highest CAGR as compared to other types.North America was the highest revenue contributor with around 37.04% share in 2016, and is projected to reach $3,602 million by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 18.8%.Connect to Analyst@Farmers are gradually inclining towards automated technology to produce higher yields. Modernized and sustainable farming technologies act as a boon for the agricultural industry, thereby eliminating the possibilities of food scarcity.About Us:Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Portland, Oregon. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain.We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry.Contact:Shriram Dighe5933 NE Win Sivers Drive#205, Portland, OR 97220United StatesToll Free: +1-800-792-5285UK: +44-845-528-1300Hong Kong: +852-301-84916India (Pune): +91-20-66346060Fax: +1-855-550-5975help@alliedmarketresearch.comWeb:
Semiconductor (Silicon) Intellectual Property Market to Perceive Exponential Growth at CAGR 11.22% Driven By SiCon Design Technologies, SILABTECH, Faraday Technology Corporation, Mindtree Limited and Etc. Players

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The semiconductor (silicon) intellectual property market was valued at USD 3.75 billion in 2017, and is projected to reach a value of USD 7.09 billion by 2023, registering a CAGR of 11.22% during the forecast period (2018 - 2023). The scope of the report is limited to form factors offered by major players, which include Integrated Circuit IP, and System on Chip (SoC) IP. The regions considered in the scope of the report include North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa.Detailed Sample Copy of Updated Analysis @Key Developments in the MarketMarch 2018  Synopsis, Inc. announced that it has acquired Silicon and Beyond Private Limited, a leading provider of high-speed SerDes technology used in data intensive applications, such as machine learning, cloud computing, and networking. This acquisition establishes Synopsys' continued focus on next-generation SerDes solutions, addressing the need for larger amounts of reliable data transfer between chips, backplane, and extended range optical interconnects. The acquisition also complements a team of R&D engineers with high-speed SerDes expertise to help designers meet their evolving design requirementsMarch 2018  Mindtree Ltd., has announced the BQB (Bluetooth Qualification Body) qualification of its Bluetooth Mesh v1.0 Software Stack, along with its Bluetooth v5.0 Software Stack & Profiles. These IPs have already been licensed to major semiconductor companies and will be showcased in the upcoming Bluetooth Asia (May 30th, 31st) in Shenzhen. Mindtrees Bluetooth Mesh Software stack, is a complete implementation combining the core mesh profiles and mesh models with all the mandatory and optional featuresTop Players:The major players include - SiCon Design Technologies, Andes Technology Corporation, SILABTECH, Faraday Technology Corporation, Fujitsu Ltd., Mindtree Limited, Digital Media Professionals, Eureka Technology Inc., MediaTek Inc., Synopsys Inc., Cadence Design Systems Inc., IPrium LLC, and ARM Ltd, among others.Request Discount on this repots @Rising design costs and growing time-to-market pressure are forcing companies to seek semiconductor IP manufacturers. The various applications of the market include smart devices (mobiles and tablets), automotive, computers & peripherals, and others. The major drivers of the market include emerging consumer devices adoption, demand for connected devices coupled with the demand for modern SOC designs. The emerging technologies like embedded and programmable DSP IPs are expected to provide various opportunities for the market in the future. However, the shift of technology is expected to restrain the markets growth.The Widespread Usage of Semiconductor IPs in Smartphones is expected to Increase their Adoption in the Consumer Electronics DomainAs there has been a strong consumer demand for better and more advanced smartphones the demand for semiconductor IPs has increased. In the smartphones market, the implementation of semiconductor IPs makes the device more efficient, smaller and lightweight as the System on Chip concept is implemented over here. The System on Chip concept enables all the major components, like the memory unit, the processor unit and others being stored on a silicon chip, enabling the device to be more power efficient and more effective. Mobile Phones have become increasingly necessary to every individual to stay in touch with others, which is driving the smartphone market, indirectly driving the semiconductor IP market. The demand for tablets has seen a slight decrease over the last few years because of its bulkier size compared to the smartphone. But, regardless, it remains a major segment that makes use of semiconductor IPs.Asia Pacific is one of the Prime Markets for the Adoption of Semiconductor IPsThe Asia-Pacific semiconductor IP market is on the rise, due to rising proliferation of consumer electronics in this region. With growing economic conditions, increasing disposable income, increasing number of youth population, and rising employment rate, the consumer electronic market is flourishing in this region. China is the largest automobile manufacturer in the world and with increasing electronic content in automobiles; the semiconductor IP market in this region is growing at a rapid pace.Chinas plans to focus on semiconductor sector as a part of 12th five-year plan and strong growth of Taiwans semiconductor and electronics industry will augment the market for semiconductor IP in this region. Moreover, growing focus on industrial automation bodes well for embedded systems, which will further drive demand for semiconductor IP.Enquiry Before Buying @About Market PrognosisWe at Market Prognosis believe in giving a crystal clear view of market dynamics for achieving success in todays complex and competitive marketplace through our quantitative & qualitative research methods.We help our clients identify the best market insights and analysis required for their business thus enabling them to take strategic and intelligent decision.We believe in delivering actionable insights for your business growth and success.Contact us:ProgMark Pvt Ltd,Thane - 421501India.Contact No: +1 973 241 5193Email: sales@marketprognosis.com
Mining Equipment Market 2018 Grow with Leading Key Vendors as Caterpillar, Komatsu, Liebherr Group, Sandvik minin, Hitachi, Atlas Copco,Metso Corp

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Mining Equipment MarketThe mining industry has witnessed a severe downfall since its peak in 2011 and has plunged about 73%, accounting for nearly USD 1.4 trillion shareholding value until late 2016. However, the industry is currently experiencing a positive phase, with commodity prices rising and augmenting the demand for raw materials. Majorly, mining of high priced metals like gold, copper, and other ores are expected to drive the market.Detailed Sample Copy of Updated Analysis @The ever-increasing demand for these materials has caused the mining equipment manufacturers to come up with better and more advanced equipment. The mining equipment manufacturers can look at opportunities, like the automation of machinery to attract customers for capturing the largest share of the market. The market is driven by the growing resource exploration and augmenting demand for raw materials.Mining, as an industry, deploys substantial capital investment and among the total, over 1/3rd is for mining equipment. Any country which hosts mining operations is bound to have monetary, labor employment, and local industry benefits. Among the beneficiaries, equipment and service suppliers are the largest ones, accounting for about 69% of the benefits from any particular mining activity in the country. The value indicates a prolific market for mining equipment in the global scenario.Major Players in Mining Equipment MarketCaterpillar Inc., Komatsu Ltd., Liebherr Group, Sandvik minin, Hitachi Ltd., Atlas Copco,Metso Corp.Key Developments in the Mining Equipment MarketFebruary 2018: RDH Mining Equipment, a Sudbury-area manufacturer of underground mining equipment, was sold to Germany company SMT Scharf AG for $8 millionApril 2017: Komatsu completed the acquisition of Joy Global, a surface and underground mining equipment manufacturer for USD 3.7 billion. From now on, Joy Global will be referred to as Komatsu mining group.Request Discount on this repots @Market OutlookA transition has been observed from underground to the more economical, open-pit mining, which is expected to drive the demand for mining equipment during the forecast period. Furthermore, the development of high-performance equipment, with increased automation, has made extraction of ores with declining grades comparatively cheaper. For example, Ericson, along with ABB and Volvo, use 5G technology, with which they run loaders and excavators through the Kankberg mine in Boliden, Sweden. These equipment are fully automated and also pave the way for further adoption of automated machinery in mines, globally.Owing to the new projects of thermal power energy, the demand for coal mining in China has increased drastically. However, as many small players are present in China, the inability of these players to purchase new equipment (owing to the lack of required capital) forces them to rent equipment for various projects and return it to the suppliers. This indicates a rise in the demand for rental markets for mining equipment. The trend is expected to extend to the African and Latin American countries, Indonesia, etc. Some rental companies are also joining hands to increase their product portfolio. For instance, Emeco has merged with Orionstone and Andys Earthmovers and has increased the fleet size to approximately 730 machines. The dependent markets (related to mining equipment), like OTR tire market, paints & coatings market, are also poised to record a stipulated growth.Enquiry Before Buying @About Market PrognosisWe at Market Prognosis believe in giving a crystal clear view of market dynamics for achieving success in todays complex and competitive marketplace through our quantitative & qualitative research methods.We help our clients identify the best market insights and analysis required for their business thus enabling them to take strategic and intelligent decision.We believe in delivering actionable insights for your business growth and success.Contact us:ProgMark Pvt Ltd,Thane - 421501India.Contact No: +1 973 241 5193Email: sales@marketprognosis.com
Cloud Migration Market 2018 | High Growth at a CAGR of 21.50 % along with Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp, Tech Mahindra., Accenture, Amazon Web Services., Microsoft Corporation., Google till 2023

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Cloud Migration Services MarketThe global cloud migration service market was valued at USD 3.10 billion in 2017 and is expected to reach a value of USD 9.98 billion by 2023 at a CAGR of 21.50% over the forecast period of 20182023. Reducing operational costs, while increasing IT effectiveness, increasing dependence on cloud, and a growing number of initiatives for BYOD by multiple organizations, is set to boost the growth of the global cloud migration services market.Detailed Sample Copy of Updated Analysis @A large number of enterprises from various industries have started appreciating and adopting advanced technologies. One of the most popular trends amongst these are industries migrating to cloud. Cloud computing encourages enterprises to serve their clients via the internet while offering a flexible and cost-friendly alternative. However, before migrating to cloud, enterprises need to thoroughly analyze and understand the different aspects of cloud migration, such as financial, security, and technical aspects.Key Developments in the Cloud Migration Services MarketNovember 2017: IBM acquired Vivant Digital Business to address the growing needs of clients seeking transformation through digital reinvention.November 2017: Cisco and INTERPOL agreed to share threat intelligence as a first step in fighting cyber crimes jointly. This alliance is expected to witness two organizations develop a coordinated and focused approach towards sharing data.Cloud Migration Services Market major players includeCognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Tech Mahindra.,Accenture PLC., Amazon Web Services., Microsoft Corporation., Google, Inc., Cisco Systems, Inc., WSM International LLC., Computer Sciences Corporation., Rackspace Hosting, Inc., Rightscale, Inc., NTT Data Corporation., VMware, Inc., IBM Corporation., NINtec Systems Ltd. ,and Evolve IP.Request Discount on this repots @Growing Number of Initiatives for BYODBYOD is having a significant impact on the enterprises as they realize the advantages in terms of cost saving, productivity, and flexibility. A survey by Cisco reported that 69% of the IT decision makers favor BYOD as an optimistic addition to workplace policy as it saves workers time. Mobile workers account for nearly 90% of the workforce in the United States alone. It offers improved productivity and collaboration by tying geographically distributed offices together, integrates and streamlines communications. With the increasingly creative approaches of businesses towards improving workplace satisfaction and productivity, BYOD helps the employees feel balanced while embracing the technology. According to IBM, more than 80% of the employees feel smart-phones will become an integral part of the workplace in the future. This inclination of employees and companies towards BYOD is leading to the growth of the market as it requires cloud migration services.Professional Services Leads The Cloud Migration Services MarketMigration consulting service providers distinguish between workloads eligible for migration onto a cloud environment, indirectly, saving on resources and expenses before migrating the complete workload. Training services strive to offer various educational programs to mitigate knowledge gaps. The support, training, and maintenance services segment provide customer support abilities to industry verticals in the case of security threats and privacy breaches. As the demand for data security increases, the dependence on cloud also increases, indirectly boosting the growth of the global cloud migration services market.Asia-Pacific to be the Major Contributor for Cloud Migration Services MarketCloud migrations services market in the Asia-Pacific is expected to witness rapid growth, owing to the increasing number of SMEs in these region and growing penetration of advanced technologies. The technological development and increasing adoption rate in countries, such as India, China, and South Korea help in the growth of the cloud migration services market in Asia-Pacific. China and India are expected to play a prominent role in the technology, while Japan is expected to see improving penetration over the forecast period.Enquiry Before Buying @About Market PrognosisWe at Market Prognosis believe in giving a crystal clear view of market dynamics for achieving success in todays complex and competitive marketplace through our quantitative & qualitative research methods.We help our clients identify the best market insights and analysis required for their business thus enabling them to take strategic and intelligent decision.We believe in delivering actionable insights for your business growth and success.Contact us:ProgMark Pvt Ltd,Thane - 421501India.Contact No: +1 973 241 5193Email: sales@marketprognosis.com
BYOD Market is Trending with CAGR of 15% by 2023, Key Players- VMware, Citrix Systems, IBM, MobileIron , SAP SE, BlueBOX IT, ForeScout Technologies, Divide (Now a Part of Google), iPass

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BYOD MarketThe market is expected to register a CAGR of over 15% during the forecast period (2018 - 2023). The scope of the report is limited to deployment including on-premise and cloud and end-user vertical such as retail, healthcare, government, energy & utility, automotive, and others. The regions considered in the scope of the report include North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. The study also emphasizes the benefits of BYOD in accordance with diverse application and future prospect of the same.Detailed Sample Copy of Updated Analysis @Bring your own device (BYOD) is an emerging technological trend wherein an employee is encouraged to utilize their own devices to access the companys enterprise system and data. This enhances the area of innovation among employees and offers better work-life balance leading to total satisfaction. However, it emphasizes a considerable challenge to the IT companies to manage and secure data and the connected devices preventing any misuse or data leak. Moreover, BYOD concept helps in mitigating the operating cost wherein there a significant cost shift from an employer to an employee. As a result, there is a massive amount of savings owing to which the organizations are looking forward to adopting thereby fueling the market growth over the forecast period. Additionally, the employees are always updated with the latest and emerging technologies, which further helps in increasing satisfaction and innovations resulting in an organizations growth. Although there are several benefits of implementing BYOD, there are diverse sets of risk involved associated with security wherein the businesses must understand the implications and their entail and offer an extra layer of protection to prevent leak of vital data.Top Players:The major companies include: VMware, Inc., Citrix Systems, Inc., IBM, MobileIron , SAP SE, BlueBOX IT, Cisco Systems, Inc., ForeScout Technologies, Divide (Now a Part of Google), Hewlett-Packard, iPass Inc, Kaspersky Lab , and McAfee, Inc., among others.Request Discount on this repots @Key Developments in BYOD MarketApril 2018: ForeScout Technologies Inc. expanded their device visibility platform to protect the extended enterprise. This will ensure the implementation of extra layer of security and support large amount of devices.Rising Smart Devices PenetrationThe use of smartphones has changed the way of communication, personally and professionally. The spread of smartphones across the world has compelled the companies to adopt BYOD technology, which will different positive effect on the market growth. Additionally, mobile computing is highly preferred over laptop or tablet as it provides flexibility to the workflow and business application can efficiently be rewritten leveraging the ubiquitous and power of mobile devices.Cloud to be the Fastest GrowingThe increasing utilization and penetration of BYOD have propelled the risk for data security owing to which the organizations are adopting towards software as a service (SaaS). The incorporation of BYOD with cloud will ensure the prevention of loss of physical data loss. For instance, the utilization of Google bundled apps, such as Gmail and Google Drive with BYOD will enhance the security and minimize the error of data loss, which is expected to fuel the cloud adoption in BYOD thereby propelling the market growth over the forecast period.Asia Pacific to Witness the Highest Growth in BYOD MarketCurrently, the penetration of BYOD technology is low as compared to other regions, however, it is expected to increase owing to the growing economy. Additionally, the startups in this region are encouraging the utilization of BYOD in their company, which is expected to fuel the market growth at a significant rate. Moreover, the rising smartphone penetration in Asia Pacific countries coupled with increasing number of companies, especially in India and Japan is likely to boost the market over the next six years.Enquiry Before Buying @About Market PrognosisWe at Market Prognosis believe in giving a crystal clear view of market dynamics for achieving success in todays complex and competitive marketplace through our quantitative & qualitative research methods.We help our clients identify the best market insights and analysis required for their business thus enabling them to take strategic and intelligent decision.We believe in delivering actionable insights for your business growth and success.Contact us:ProgMark Pvt Ltd,Thane - 421501India.Contact No: +1 973 241 5193Email: sales@marketprognosis.com
Not every police agency provides a log of its responses, and few do it with the finesse of the Forest Grove Police Department. Every week, we post the goings on as provided by this community 25 miles west of Portland, not because it's earth-shatteringly important, but because it provides a glimpse into the world of modern small-town policing.

During the week, officers were engaged in more than 498 activities, both reported and self-initiated. Here are some of the highlights:

July 27

* Officers assisted a motorcyclist who had fallen off their bike, which had subsequently righted itself and continued driver-less across a busy road and into a fast food parking lot, where it crashed into another vehicle. Damage and injury were minimal.

* Police broke up an escalating argument at a bar between two men fighting because one was allegedly lying about being in the Army.

* A caller reported a shirtless man towing a trailer behind a bicycle from which he was attempting to sell jewelry. Officers were unable to locate anyone matching the description.

July 28

* A child accidentally started a fire by playing with matches while his parents were sleeping. The fire had spread to a neighbor's garage before it was extinguished by alert citizens. Police and firefighters responded. The child will be enrolled in a fire safety program.

* Officers responded to a late-night fight between a man and a woman in the middle of the street. Following an investigation, the man was arrested for harassment and suspected possession of methamphetamine.

July 29

* A woman reported her in-home caretakers were refusing to let her spend time with their children. Officers advised that parents are allowed to keep their children away from whomever they choose.

* Police contacted a suspicious man who was seen hiding in the bushes near a convenience store. He was found to be rather intoxicated, a violation of his probation, and was subsequently arrested.

* Officers responded to a residence where someone was allegedly wielding an ice pick in a fight. On arrival, police learned the incident was verbal only and there was no evidence of a weapon. They agreed to separate for the night.

July 30

* Police performed a welfare check on a man seen bleeding from his face and hands near a bus stop. The man refused medical attention and said he had fallen into a bush after having too much to drink.

* A man was inside a store helping himself to cheese and donuts. While the owners did not want to press theft charges, the man was arrested for violating a no trespass order.

* A landlord reported that a newly evicted tenant was throwing urine out a window. Police were unable to locate the tenant.

July 31

* A lawnmower was stolen from a neighbor's garage. Police identified the suspect a few blocks away and found the mower at a location associated with him. In the process of investigating the mower theft, an officer also noticed an extension cord running some 200 feet from the suspect's location over a retaining wall and into a property nearby. Theft of services and offensive littering were added to his litany of charges.

* Night shift officers located a man with an outstanding felony warrant. A search yielded several fake $100 bills. He was arrested.

August 1

* A caller reported that a woman sitting in her vehicle in a restaurant parking lot was acting erratically and, based on the caller's extensive viewing of the show "COPS," appeared to be on drugs. Officers located the driver, who showed no signs of impairment and said she was just tired from a long drive.

* A bus driver reported that a man spit on him and was trying to challenge him to a fist fight. The man had also punched out a window on the bus. He was arrested on several charges.

* Police received a report of a man in civilian clothes in an unmarked car holding what appeared to be a radar gun. Officers were unable to locate the vehicle.

August 2

* A fast food employee reported that a woman in the drive-thru was refusing to leave unless she was offered free sour cream. Officers assisted in pushing the vehicle, which had run out of fuel, out of the way and trespassed the woman from the location.

* Night shift officers located a vehicle moving slowly and erratically along Highway 47. The driver advised he was on several prescription medications and had recently used marijuana. He was arrested on suspicion of DUII.

* An officer on patrol heard the sound of breaking glass and found a couple engaged in an alcohol-fueled argument. It was determined the man had broken his window out of frustration. He was cited for providing alcohol to the underage female.

-- Samantha Swindler

@editorswindler / 503-294-4031

sswindler@oregonian.com
By JENNIFER RUBIN

Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee, Wash., and Republican Gov. John Kasich, Ohio, sound like politicians did only a few years ago: vaguely normal.

Appearing on ABC's "This Week," Inslee responded to the accusation that Democrats lack a message:

"Number one, we're going to protect and expand health care, not strip it away. . . . Second, our message is rescue America - and we will rescue America - from the grasp of an unhinged narcissist who is creating the chaos that [Kasich] just talked about. And that is why so many Republicans and independents and Democrats are banding together in this rescue mission for America. And the third message - and this is very fundamental to the Democratic Party this year. We're really defining gross domestic product the way it should be. The D in gross domestic product should mean domestic for families."

The last one, it sounds like, is a pitch for shared prosperity; the idea that you can have a dynamic capitalistic economy but still ensure the middle and lower income American get a greater share of GDP. (Inslee boasted about efforts in his state: "Raised the minimum wage, best family leave policy in America, net neutrality passed, voter rights, expansion of clean energy, expansion of access to college. What do you get? You get 62 cranes in Seattle, the best economy two out of the last three years in America.")

Asked about an issue he'd champion if he ran for president in 2020, Inslee answered:

"Democrats need to make climate change a front-burner issue. It was really interesting, two days ago we had an interesting historical irony.

"It was reported that this last year was the hottest year probably in the history of our species. The very same day, Donald Trump purported to try to repeal the emissions rules that defeat carbon pollution, that help decrease transportation cost to get better mileage, because of his slavish devotion to climate denial.

"Now, we Democrats are the only party that has accepted science because we believe in science and have also embraced this vision of job creation around clean energy. We've shown this in my state where clean energy jobs are going twice as fast as the rest of the economy.

"And this is a job-creation message. Frankly, this does not fit in the presidential discussions yet, and it needs to be, and it's a winning message in governor's races across the country."

Not radical. Not nasty. Not socialism. We can have a reasoned argument over the means (e.g., minimum-wage increases or earned income tax credit), but it is hard to say securing health care, repairing our democracy, trying to reverse severe income inequality and trying to reduce greenhouse gases evidence a left-wing agenda. By contrast, wrecking Obamacare with no alternative in sight, continuing to delegitimize democratic institutions and denying climate science - which the GOP seems to favor - do seem radical.

Kasich doesn't sound like other Republicans these days. He is not excusing Trump's outlandish conduct nor is he pretending there is anything normal about this administration. He explained that "first of all, the chaos that seems to surround Donald Trump has unnerved a lot of people. So suburban women, in particular here, are the ones that are really turned off. " Kasich added, "I was with some women last night who said, hey, you know what, I'm not voting, and they're Republicans, I'm not voting for the Republicans." Well, he's got that right.

Kasich goes on to praise the Republican candidate in Tuesday's special House election because he opposed Trump's inhumane separation policy, opposed tariffs and promised to fix Social Security. Assuming that last one isn't pie-in-the-sky privatization of Social Security, those things sound reasonable, as well. On tariffs, Kasich enunciated the traditional GOP position:

"What they do is they hurt consumers. They hurt businesses in this country. And you can see how people have been reacting to it who are business people that want to get their markets overseas. For farmers, farmers don't want welfare, they want trade. They want to be able to sell their stuff.

"In regard to China, what we need to do with China is to work with our allies to say that this theft of intellectual property cannot stand. The problem is, we've made so many of our allies angry, they're not so reluctant to get in line with us."

Kasich concluded by chastising Trump for sowing division and praised LeBron James for his civic work.

Imagine these were the two candidates in 2020 - two experienced governors who can talk rationally about the issues. Does anyone think they are who we'll end up with? Not a chance. And it is a shame, because the two we do wind up with will almost certainly be worse than Inslee and Kasich.

(c) 2018, The Washington Post
President Trump's supports chant, "Lock her up," for Hillary Clinton's poor judgement in using her personal email account for some government business -- which is dwarfed by the lies, sexual escapades and attempts to stop investigations by Trump. I think we can now start the chant, "Lock him up."

John Harlan, Beaverton
A delayed audit of Oregon's childcare system will examine whether day care providers with troubling criminal histories are properly prohibited from caring for children, officials told The Oregonian/OregonLive.

Auditors will also identify barriers that regulators face when conducting required background checks.

The audit is tentatively set for completion and public release in spring 2019.

Auditors in July confirmed the scope of their review after a months-long wait. Gov. Kate Brown originally requested an audit in October 2017 following extensive coverage of childcare regulatory gaps by The Oregonian/OregonLive and the death of an infant at a Portland day care.

Brown's office on Oct. 24 proposed a "small audit" examining how the Office of Child Care, the Department of Human Services and law enforcement interact when investigating child safety at licensed day cares, public records obtained by The Oregonian/OregonLive show.

But Brown's office in January asked auditors from the Secretary of State to delay the audit by 90 days. Brown's deputy chief of staff, Berri Leslie, asked for the delay to ensure the launch of a pilot project to improve coordination between childcare and human services divisions.

Auditors now say they won't examine that work and instead will focus on Oregon's efforts to effectively run background checks of day care providers.

The audit will compare Oregon's list of day care providers against a slew of databases, including the FBI fingerprint check and state criminal repositories, sex offender registries and abuse or neglect information, spokeswoman Laura Fosmire said.

The Office of Child Care is supposed to comply with new federal rules for background checks by Sept. 30, Fosmire said. But state officials already have voiced concern about whether they'll be able to comply on time.

Fosmire said the audit findings could help move Oregon closer to compliance.

-- Brad Schmidt

bschmidt@oregonian.com

503-294-7628

@_brad_schmidt
Oregon ethics officials have put their settlement negotiations with former first lady Cylvia Hayes on hold, pending advice from the Department of Justice regarding the implications of Hayes' bankruptcy.

"We are about ready to begin again," said Ron Bersin, executive director of the Oregon Government Ethics Commission, on Tuesday afternoon. "The DOJ was finding out if we could actually negotiate (during Hayes' bankruptcy proceedings)."

In January, the commission found 22 instances in which Hayes violated state ethics laws, including a prohibition on public officials using their positions for personal gain. If the commission were to impose the maximum fine of $5,000 per violation, it would total $110,000.

The panel has not yet determined the penalty amount; earlier this year, Hayes began negotiating with the commission for a lower fine. She filed for bankruptcy a month ago and has disclosed $339,000 in mortgage, credit card and other debts.

During her fiance Gov. John Kitzhaber's third term, Hayes served as an unpaid policy adviser to the governor on green energy and economic policies. She also worked as a paid advocate for groups that wanted to shape those state policies.

Bersin, speaking on his cell phone due to a network outage that affected multiple agencies, said he hopes to hear back this week from the Department of Justice with advice on whether the ethics commission can re-start penalty negotiations with Hayes.

-- Hillary Borrud

503-294-4034; @hborrud
Updated at 3:17 p.m. to include the names and corrected titles of those arrested.

Three religious leaders were arrested Tuesday morning at Southwest Portland's downtown Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, a Federal Protective Service spokesman confirmed.

Two ministers and a rabbi were cited for obstruction after blocking the driveway to the Macadam Avenue facility, said Robert Sperling, a Federal Protective Service spokesman.

Those arrested were part of a larger group called Interfaith Movement for Immigration Justice gathered at the facility to deliver a letter to Elizabeth Godfrey, acting field office director for ICE, said Rabbi Benjamin Barnett of Havurah Shalom.

Read the letter

.

The letter, which requested the release of the 121 immigrants detained at the Sheridan Federal Correctional Institution, was first delivered to ICE officials on July 31.

Three faith leaders now being arrested pic.twitter.com/ugaBulzHni  Ericka Cruz Guevarra (@NotoriousECG) August 7, 2018

The three faith leaders arrested were the Rev. Michael Ellick with Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon, Rabbi Debra Kolodny of Portland's UnShul and the Rev. Barbara Nixon of First United Methodist Church in Corvallis. All three have since been released.

The arrests come less than two week after Portland Police cleared out a 38-day encampment at the same location involving hundreds of people protesting President Donald Trump's immigration policies.

Faith leaders are demanding ICE release asylum seekers still in a detention facility in Sheridan. They say support systems are in place for them upon release. Here there are, where a sprawling #occupyicepdx encampment once was. ICE building behind them. pic.twitter.com/Or2kHKxD29  Ericka Cruz Guevarra (@NotoriousECG) August 7, 2018

"We have a lot more faith leaders waiting in the wings," Barnett said in reference to about 20 religious leaders across Oregon who have agreed to practice civil disobedience to get their message across during what they are calling August of Action.

Rabbi Kolodny, who spoke with The Oregonian/OregonLive shortly after her release, said the tipping point came early in the month, when 79 of the immigrants detained at Sheridan were deemed legitimate asylum seekers with "credible fear" of violence or reprisals if they were to return to their home countries.

About 20 minutes after delivering the letter and receiving no response to their request to meet with Godfrey, Kolodny and others decided to execute their civil disobedience plan.

All that followed played out peacefully, she said.

The small group sat in front of the facility's main driveway. Shortly after, Department of Homeland Security officials began asking the clergy if they realized the implications of their actions.

"We understand and we know, and we are not leaving," Kolodny recalled telling the officials.

All three were handcuffed soon after.

They were given two citations each for refusing a direct order and for creating a disturbance. They weren't put in holding cells and were treated graciously by DHS the whole time, Kolodny said.

"The grace with which they dealt with us and their respect and appreciation for our peacefulness made clear that they were moved by what was happening," she said of the officials.

At least 75 people surrounded them singing spiritual songs as they were being handcuffed.

"Trading our freedom and our privilege was not a difficult question for us," said the Rev. Ellick, who spoke with the Oregonian/OregonLive as he traveled home to see his wife and daughter upon his release. He, alongside the others, is set to appear in court on Nov. 2.

Ellick said the biblical mandate to welcome immigrants could not be more clear. On the flip side, he added, Trump's policies have felt punitive and un-American.

"This is an obvious, clear, unambiguous command of our religious faith," he said.

Kolodny said she hopes their actions help speed up the release of the Sheridan immigrants, though only time will tell.

"When that happens, the arc of the universe shifts a little but towards justice," she said of everyone who witnessed the demonstration.

All four of Kolodny's grandparents came to the U.S. as refugees. One was an undocumented immigrant who came to America by way of the southern border.

"I know in my body in my blood and in my bones what this experience is," Kolodny said. "And I would not be alive today if there was some kind of entity functioning like ICE is today."

--Anna Spoerre
An initiative petition that would limit campaign spending in Portland elections has qualified for the November ballot, the city elections office announced Monday.

If adopted, the campaign finance measure would limit how much supporters can give and candidates can spend and would require political ads to disclose financial backers.

The ballot proposal is similar to campaign finance limits adopted overwhelmingly by Multnomah County voters in 2016. A circuit court judge struck down those limits this spring. Supporters' appeal is pending before the Oregon Court of Appeals. While the case is on appeal, the circuit court's ruling remains in effect.

Campaign finance limits generally fail when challenged in Oregon courts because judges have interpreted the state's free speech protections to bar caps on campaign giving or spending.

-- Gordon R. Friedman

503-221-8209
UPDATED Aug. 7 at 7:30 a.m.

A man stole an SUV at knifepoint in Northwest Portland on Monday, then hit a pedestrian, setting off a chain of events that ended with police apprehending him in a different vehicle, authorities say.

The suspected carjacker, identified as 26-year-old Quinton Franklin, was lodged in the Multnomah County Jail after doctors evaluated him at an area hospital, the Portland Police Bureau said.

He faces nine criminal charges, including driving under the influence of intoxicants, reckless driving, third-degree robbery and failure to perform the duties of a driver causing injury, police said.

Franklin forced several people out of a teal Hyundai Santa Fe around 5:20 p.m. while holding a knife. police said. The driver hit the male pedestrian at least once as he drove away from the scene, near Northwest Broadway and Glisan Street. The injured man was hospitalized and is expected to survive, police said. No one else was seriously injured.

As officers were searching for the SUV, it rolled over on southbound Interstate 5 near Southwest Capitol Highway, police said. Franklin got out, encountered a silver Toyota Camry on the highway and forced a woman out of that car, according to authorities.

By the time officers arrived, the Camry was gone. The female driver was found unharmed.

At some point, a Tigard police officer spotted the stolen car on I-5 and gave chase, Portland police said. The chase continued as the cars drove off the interstate and until the suspect crashed into a BMW sedan in Southwest Portland.

Other police cars boxed the Toyota in so Franklin couldn't leave and took him into custody, according to authorities.

-- Everton Bailey Jr.

ebailey@oregonian.com

503-221-8343; @EvertonBailey
Vancouver's City Council unanimously threw its support Monday behind building a new Interstate 5 bridge spanning the Columbia River with separated transit and improved bike and pedestrian facilities.

Almost five years after the Columbia River Crossing officially died despite nearly $190 million worth of planning over more than a decade, Vancouver's city leaders voted Monday to try to revive the bridge project. But the city appeared to leave the door open for bus-rapid transit in lieu of light rail - a point of conflict through the years.

"This is an important first step in moving the I-5 bridge project forward," Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle said in a statement. "The replacement of the bridge will be critical to the continued economic growth of the bi-state region."

Oregon and Washington were supposed to spend $450 million apiece to build a new bridge, redesign several interchanges on either side of the river and bring light rail to Washington state. But conservative Washington legislators derailed the effort in 2013.

Oregon tried to go it alone before abandoning the bridge plan the next year. McEnerny-Ogle, who just started her tenure as mayor in January, has said publicly that Washington state "screwed up" by declining to fund the bridge project.

A lot isn't in the three-page document approved by Vancouver's City Council. There's no mention of tolling I-5 or I-205, an unpopular proposal in Clark County political circles, even as Oregon's Transportation Commission is expected to seek federal tolling approval later this year.

The council's nonbinding resolution also doesn't include the words "Columbia River Crossing," but the document does share a lot of the similarities with the failed plan to replace the aging span that started in the 1990s and would've cost upwards of $3 billion.

The document cites the bridge as an area of "national significance," which includes two major ports and is home to "some of the most severe congestion along the entire length of the I-5 corridor."

The Interstate Bridge is "functionally obsolete," the city says. It's also a rare drawbridge spanning two large cities and a heavily used river on the U.S. interstate system

Vancouver officials cited the public transit service as "inadequate to meet demand" and said the existing bus service "operates in mixed-traffic," causing delays.

The resolution does not specify light rail as the desired option -- the failed Columbia River Crossing option would have extended light rail to Clark College. Instead it cites "high capacity transit with a dedicated guideway," potentially leaving the door open for bus-rapid transit.

Vancouver officials are asking Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and the Legislature to "provide adequate funding" to kickstart project development.

Sophia June, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler's spokeswoman, said it was "too early to tell" what will happen with the effort, but Wheeler is "interested in seeing what develops."

Nikki Fisher, a spokeswoman for Gov. Kate Brown, said the development was "an encouraging step from our partners in Washington."

"We are committed to meeting the needs of Oregon by investing in seismic safety infrastructure and transit to reduce congestion and move Oregon forward," she said."

In an interview, Oregon Senate President Peter Courtney, D-Salem, called the Vancouver council's resolution "a surprise."

He said he's ready to get back to the negotiating table. "It's time for Oregon and Washington to begin working again on a joint project to replace the I-5 bridge over the Columbia River," Courtney said in a statement. "The I-5 bridge is vital to moving our people and our products. We need to put the history on this project behind us and begin working together toward the future once again."

-- Andrew Theen

atheen@oregonian.com

503-294-4026

@andrewtheen
Major technology companies including Apple, Facebook and YouTube deleted years of content from conservative conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and his Infowars platforms over allegations of hate speech, a sudden clampdown that is fueling the growing debate over how big technology companies choose to censor.

The move was unusual for its sweep and speed, suggesting a new assertiveness by technology companies that in the past have worked to avoid alienating conservatives, who often assert that left-leaning Silicon Valley is biased against them. The removals appeared to be prompted by more users flagging Infowars content for policy violations.

Jones' shows long have sparked complaints because of many elaborate and unsupported claims, including that mass shootings such as the 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary may have been staged and that the government orchestrated the Sept. 11 attacks. In July, YouTube banned one of his videos from June entitled "How to Prevent Liberalism," which depicts a man shoving a kid to the ground.

But in acting against Jones in recent days, the technology companies cited unspecified violations of their rules against hateful language. Facebook said in a statement Monday it was removing four of Jones' pages "for glorifying violence, which violates our graphic violence policy, and using dehumanizing language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies."

Facebook, YouTube and Twitter have long clung to the claim that they are neutral platforms and that they don't want to be in the business of deciding what is true or false. The action echoed the abrupt removal of the accounts of some white supremacists a year ago, a few days after the far-right rallies in Charlottesville, Virginia. But companies are increasingly willing to limit free speech, after the backlash from Charlottesville and Russian manipulation.

The recent actions by the technology companies also highlight the opaque nature of their decision-making, with most not publicly specifying what content by Jones violated their policies or how they decided what posts to block and which to leave online. Jones has treaded close to some definitions of hate speech for years, and it wasn't clear from the companies if or when he finally crossed the line.

Both Facebook and YouTube said that Jones had posted new objectionable content over the weekend that influenced their decision to take the content down.

YouTube said in a statement, "When users violate these policies repeatedly, like our policies against hate speech and harassment or our terms prohibiting circumvention of our enforcement measures, we terminate their accounts."

"Apple does not tolerate hate speech, and we have clear guidelines that creators and developers must follow to ensure we provide a safe environment for all of our users," Apple said in a statement. "We believe in representing a wide range of views, so long as people are respectful to those with differing opinions."

The actions came in a cascade, starting with Spotify removing some podcasts last week. Then, late Sunday, Apple removed the majority of Jones' podcasts from iTunes and its podcast apps. On Monday morning, Facebook followed by blocking four of Jones's pages, and then YouTube deleted his Infowars page, with 2.4 million followers. Both companies had already temporarily suspended InfoWars since late July.

The backlash was swift, with Jones saying in a text message to The Washington Post Monday morning that the removal of his shows amounted to an assault against "the First Amendment in this country as we know it." He blamed China, Democrats, "establishment" Republicans and mainstream news organizations for seeking to mount a "counter-strike against the global awakening."

He warned, "You sold the country out, and now you're going to pay for it."

Some rallied to his side, including those who do not ordinarily support Jones but expressed worry about the power Silicon Valley has rapidly developed to squelch unpopular voices without formal due process or alternatives that are capable of commanding similarly large audiences.

Legal experts said the issues raised by the companies' actions are complex.

"While private platforms aren't bound by the restrictions of the First Amendment -- generally only the government is -- there's a question about how much discretion they should choose to exercise over what speech they allow to flow through them," said Jonathan Zittrain, faculty director of Harvard's Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society. "That question can't be wisely answered without noting how unfortunately central just a few intermediaries are -- like Apple for podcasts, or YouTube, Facebook and Twitter for videos and links."

But technology has also enabled the rise of such polarizing personalities as Jones and Milo Yiannopoulos, who may have struggled to develop large audiences in an era before widespread adoption of social media.

Conservatives have expressed particular fear about the power of technology companies, arguing that the predominantly liberal workforce in Silicon Valley and other industry centers such as Seattle puts them at a disadvantage in the battle for ideas in crucial online spheres.

"Conservatives are increasingly concerned that InfoWars is not the end point for those who want to ban speech. It's just the beginning," said Brent Bozell, President of the conservative Media Research Center based in Reston, Virginia. "I don't support Alex Jones and what InfoWars produces. He's not a conservative. However, banning him and his outlet is wrong. It's not just a slippery slope, it's a dangerous cliff that these social media companies are jumping off."

Twitter stood out Monday as the one of the few social media platforms to not take action against Jones. Twitter has come under particular attack from conservatives who claimed that the company is targeting them as its seeks to weed out fake accounts and automated bot networks. Twitter declined to comment.

Jones, 44, heads what amounts to a sprawling conspiracy theory empire from his base in Austin, Texas, home to The Alex Jones Show, and a variety of Infowars online platforms. That includes a website, Infowars.com, not affected by the actions of recent days.

Jones gained influence in recent years through his support of President Donald Trump, but he also has drawn intense criticism for spreading provocative theories without providing evidence to support them. He claimed that the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School was "completely fake with actors" and now faces defamation lawsuits brought by some of the families whose children were killed there.

He also promoted the false conspiracy theory known as "Pizzagate," involving allegations of a child sex-abuse ring tied to Democratic party officials, eventually prompting a man to fire an AR-15 rifle inside of a pizza restaurant in Washington, D.C. YouTube sanctioned Jones earlier this year for raising questions about whether the teen survivors of the Parkland, Florida, shooting were actors, but didn't delete his channels.

Technology companies have faced growing public pressure since July 18, when Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg, speaking on the tech podcast Recode Decode, defended his company's decision to leave Jones' content up. "The approach that we've taken to false news is not to say, you can't say something wrong on the internet," he said. "I think that that would be too extreme." Zuckerberg then drew a parallel to Holocaust deniers, saying that they weren't "intentionally getting it wrong."

Since then, Silicon Valley companies have received a flood new of reports from users who flagged Jones' content as hate speech, according to people familiar with the companies' deliberations. On July 24, YouTube issued a 90-day strike against Jones for videos that the company said included hate speech against Muslims and transgender people. Facebook followed suit and issued a 30-day ban.

"You are starting to see these platforms act as a coherent field," said Daniel Kreiss, a professor at the school of media and journalism at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. "They are likely all having similar internal debates and watching what each other are doing. There is safety in numbers in that."

After Jones' video channels were banned, he turned to Twitter to direct fans to his podcasts, which were distributed on iTunes, Spotify, and the podcast distribution company Stitcher. Spotify and Stitcher combed through their archive of podcasts and moved last week to ban some.

Sleeping Giants, a social-media activist group that has pressed tech companies to enforce policies on abusive content, praised Apple's move. "Last week, we asked @Apple how the harassment of Sandy Hook parents and Vegas shooting victims didn't violate their Terms of Service. Tonight, they decided that it did. Massive kudos to @Apple for doing what most tech companies have so far refused to do," the group said in a tweet late Sunday.

Some at the tech companies said it appeared felt as if Jones was purposefully trying to test the companies and their policies, by walking right up to a line that they haven't quite made clear, according to three people familiar with deliberations. Executives defend the decision not to share exactly what content violated a policy because they fear it will prompt people to test it.

Sleeping Giants criticized other tech platforms including Facebook and YouTube for announcing their latest moved against Jones only after Apple did. "To say they're now 'silencing voices' is to ignore the fact that they allowed them to be amplified in the first place," the organization tweeted on Monday.

-- Craig Timberg, Elizabeth Dwoskin, Hamza Shaban
A nonprofit animal rescue is fighting for an exemption from a Washington County ordinance set to go into effect in September -- and it says it'll relocate before giving up its exotic animals.

Walk on the Wild Side keeps around 40 tigers, lions and other exotic animals on its Hillsboro land, its lobbyist said. The group aims to bring in animals, including those on or close to being on the endangered species list, to make sure they are treated well and to educate the public on conservation of those species.

But the new ordinance prohibits the keeping of exotic animals -- including primates, most bears, crocodilians and non-native and non-domestic cats and dogs -- in unincorporated Washington County.

"It's a direct attack upon us," said Steve Higgs, executive director of Walk on the Wild Side.

But Marni Kuyl, director of Washington County's Department of Health and Human Services, said it "absolutely" is not.

After receiving complaints from neighbors about Walk on the Wild Side, however, the need for an ordinance like this one came to light, Kuyl said. Both animal welfare and resident safety were taken into consideration with this ordinance, she said.

While the group has an exhibitor license from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, that won't save them from the new ordinance. Some exceptions do apply to the ordinance, though, and Walk on the Wild Side is looking into one of them: it can continue operations if it obtains a certification from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

The certification process can take months and includes an inspection visit and a hearing. The association looks at animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, safety, facilities, finances and more before granting certification.

There are two deadlines for submitting applications each year, one in March and one in September. Darin Campbell, a lobbyist for Walk on the Wild Side, said the group is trying to submit its application in September. There only three AZA-accredited sites in Oregon: the Oregon Zoo, Oregon Coast Aquarium and Wildlife Safari.

Though the nonprofit plans to apply for AZA certification, Campbell said he is unsure if it will be able to meet some of AZA's guidelines.

"It's an uphill battle," Campbell said.

Simply applying for certification can exempt Walk on the Wild Side from the ordinance for up to a year. But this ordinance is not the only pressure Walk on the Wild Side is facing.

In June, Walk on the Wild Side was hit with a total of $10,000 in fines after receiving violation notices for "feeding and management of exotic animals on farm-zoned property; failure to obtain permit(s) for exotic animal structures; and proposed sales of exotic animal dung," according to information from Washington County's Department of Land Use & Transportation.

The fines came more than two years after Washington County issued a letter to the group's operators saying they could not locate on the property because they would be improperly using the farm-use designated land. That letter from March 2016 states land use was brought up to their real estate agent around a year prior, and a map of other appropriate locations was provided at that time. Walk on the Wild Side moved to their current location in 2016, Campbell said.

Those fines have been appealed to Oregon's Land Use Board of Appeals, Walk on the Wild Side's attorney Geordie Duckler said.

The nonprofit's troubles stretch beyond Washington County. Recently, Multnomah County adopted an ordinance banning traveling displays of wild or exotic animals, according to information on the county's website. That means Walk on the Wild Side will no longer be able to display animals at the Portland Rose Festival and the Multnomah County Fair, Julie Sullivan-Springhetti, a county spokeswoman, confirmed.

Campbell said both events are important parts of the organization's income to continue feeding and taking care of the animals. They were also opportunities for the organization to engage with and educate the public on the animals.

"These events are so much more important than just doing them for the fun of it," Campbell said.

He said, however, if the organization does not get a certification from AZA, they would move rather than give any of their animals away. Nothing is off the table, Campbell said, though if the group decides to leave the county, they would like to stay in Oregon.

--Hannah Boufford

hboufford@oregonian.com / @hannahboufford
The following list includes recent reports from the Midland County Sheriff's Office and the Midland Police Department. Compiled by reporter Kelly Dame.

Sunday, Aug. 5

12:49 a.m. - Police made arrests for driving while license suspended and a warrant at Jerome and West Buttles streets.

6:42 a.m. - Deputies, paramedics and Midland Township firefighters were sent to a Midland Township home for a 21-year-old man who was found passed out on his neighbor's porch. The man refused treatment and was returned to his home.

7:14 a.m. - A deputy was sent to an Edenville Township store for a report of an unwanted customer.

12:03 p.m. - Police investigated an ordinance violation in the 1300 block of West Union Street.

12:24 p.m. - A Mills Township man, 47, was arrested in that township for driving without a license and cited for improper registration and no proof of insurance.

1:56 p.m. - A Midland woman, 21, was cited in Midland for expired license.

9:14 p.m. - A 68-year-old man was cited in Lee Township for improper plate and no insurance. A report was sent to the prosecutor's office for review.

9:16 p.m. - Deputies were sent to a report of a disorderly person at a Hope Township home and found an intoxicated 40-year-old man whom the residents did not know, wandering around the property. The man was given a ride home.

Saturday, Aug. 4

9:45 a.m. - A deputy was sent to a report of a sick raccoon in Jerome Township.

12:43 p.m. - Police were sent to a report of a loud party in the 2500 block of Isabella Street and cited alcohol violations.

2:52 p.m. - Officers were called to a case of retail fraud in the 7300 block of Eastman Avenue.

6:10 p.m. - A deputy responded to a be-on-the-lookout report for a reckless driver on U.S. 10. The vehicle was found and the driver was given a warning.

8:48 p.m. - A deputy investigated a hit and run crash in Greendale Township.

9:22 p.m. - Police were sent to the 900 block of West Allen Street for a report of a disorderly person.

10:11 p.m. - A warrant is being requested for a Beaverton man, 36, for drunken driving and driving while license suspended after a car fire in Edenville Township. There were no injuries. A report is being sent to the prosecutor's office.

Friday, Aug. 3

12:8 a.m. - A deputy was sent to Larkin Township for a report of speeding vehicles and engines revving. The area was checked but no speeding or loud vehicles were found.

2:40 a.m. - Officers were sent to a report of a loud party in the 5100 block of Meyers Street.

8:11 a.m. - A deputy assisted Michigan State Police serve a search warrant at a Coleman home.

9:29 a.m. - Animal Control checked the well being of a dog in Midland. The dog was in good health.

11:37 a.m. - A motorist was arrested in the 300 block of Lemke Street for driving while license suspended.

11:51 a.m. - A deputy stopped a vehicle in Lee Township for speeding. The driver was given a warning.

4:40 p.m. - A 56-year-old man entered a Lincoln Township store, consumed a bottle of alcohol, valued at $4.22, without paying for it then left the store. A report is being sent to the prosecutor's office.

8:16 p.m. - A deputy was sent to Veterans Memorial Park in Jerome Township for a report of a man holding what was believed to be a knife. The man was not found and nothing suspicious was found in the area.

8:18 p.m. - A deputy was sent to Homer Township for a report of a stop sign that had been knocked over. The road commission was contacted to make repairs.

9:55 p.m. - Police were called to a loud party with people using marijuana in the 1600 block of Illinois Drive.

9:57 p.m. - Deputies were sent to Lee Township for a report of an intoxicated man, age 49, who was trying to ride a bicycle on a road. The man was given a ride home for his own safety.

10:23 p.m. - A Midland man, 58, was arrested on a warrant after a traffic stop in Midland.
Simple streamlines banking and budgeting but is best used by people uncomplicated finances who already live off their phone.

Do Millennials bank differently than the rest of us? The creators of Simple would seem to think so. This all-digital banking and budgeting app appears to be aimed squarely at tech savvy 18-35 year olds looking for a frictionless way to manage their finances from their phone.

More than a budgeting app, Simple is a free checking account with a set of unique budgeting tools to enable branchless banking. Each account includes a Visa debit card, photo check deposit, direct deposit, external account linking, instant transfers to other Simple customers, and integration with third-party payment services including Square and Paypal. Any funds deposited in your Simple account are held by its banking partner, BBVA Compass, Member FDIC.

Note: This review is part of our budgeting apps roundup. Go there for details about competing products and how we tested them.

Simple Simple lets you set long-term savings Goals and automatcially deducts funds daily to meet them.

Simples real appeal, though, comes down to a pair of features that simplify money management. The first is called Safe-to-Spend. Rather than seeing their bank balance when they first log in and having to parse transactions to determine how much cash they have available, users instead see a safe-to-spend amounttheir balance minus any upcoming bills and money designated for savings.

That savings is enabled by Simples Goals feature. Using this automated savings tool, you set a savings goal and a deadline. Simple calculates the daily contribution needed to meet it and socks that money away for you each day in a dedicated Goal sub-account.

While Goals can be set up for any expense, from monthly bills to a trip to Paris, Simple sets up a separate Emergency Fund for unexpected expenses. The app helps you determine what to save by looking at your income and how quickly you need to build up your fund. Then it automatically deducts daily amounts and moves them to a Protected Goals account to prevent you from spending the money.

These two features perform much of the heavy lifting of budgeting, but Simple also offers plenty of tools for actively digging into your finances, including easy expense tracking, detailed earning and spending reports, and a hashtag system for contextualizing your purchases. Theres also robust support documentation and an accessible customer service team to help out when necessary.

Bottom line

True to its name, Simple really streamlines the banking and budgeting process. But its limitation to just Simple accounts make it best suited for those with, well, simple finances, who are also comfortable banking without a brick-and-mortar location to fall back on.

If you have investments and/or other checking and savings accounts, youll have to use Simple in conjunction with those banks tools. However, apps like Mint or You Need a Budget would give a clearer look at your whole financial picture in that case.
Hide.me is a good service with capable server speeds and a good Windows app that makes it easy to connect. In recent months Hide.me has added support for IPv6, WireGuard, and even Netflix. We found some inconsistencies with the speeds, but they were still capable enough for most uses.

Hide.me in brief:

P2P allowed: Yes

Yes Business location: Malaysia

Malaysia Number of servers: 150+

150+ Number of country locations: 34

34 Cost: $60/$120 per year

$60/$120 per year VPN Protocol (default): IKEv2

IKEv2 Data encryption: AES-CBC-256

AES-CBC-256 Data authentication: HMAC-SHA2-256

HMAC-SHA2-256 Handshake encryption: ECP521

Every VPN claims to be the fastest, or one of the fastest, services on the Internet, but often those claims dont pan out. Malaysia-based Hide.Me not only claims its fast, but has the annual charge to prove it. How did that work out for the company? Lets take a look.

Note: This review is part of our best VPNs roundup. Go there for details about competing products and how we tested them.

IDG Hide.me with a live connection.

Features and services

When you first open up Hide.me its satisfyingly simple. Theres a big Enable VPN button right in the middle of the interface, in the lower-right is a Change button to switch locations, and the lower-left has your current IP address and country.

Taking a look at the list of the countries, there are 34 to choose from in a scrolling, searchable list and very easy to scroll through. Hide.me also notes on the far right of each location whether you can use it for P2P file sharing. If you see a green P2P symbol then youre good to go, if its red then youre not.

At this writing, the only red countries were Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

In the upper-right corner of the Hide.me app is the Settings icon. Most of the settings are pretty standard stuff such as an internet kill switch and the option to launch the app during startup.

IDG Hide.mes fallback configuration settings.

One nice option in Hide.me is the VPN protocol fallback configuration under Settings > Protocol > Fallback configuration. Here you can specify the order that the app tries to connect using the various VPN protocols. If IKEv2 fails, for example, you can specify that the app tries OpenVPN or SSTP next.

By default on Windows 10, Hide.me users IKEv2, but under Settings > Protocol > VPN protocol you can change the default to OpenVPN, SoftEtherVPN, and SSTP.

Hide.me has two pricing tiers. The first is Plus and offers one simultaneous connection and a maximum of 75GB of data transfer per month. The second tier is Premium and offers five simultaneous connections and unlimited data transfer. Plus is priced at $60 per year and Premium is $120. The Premium tier is pretty much the standard service youd get with any VPN, making Hide.me one of the most expensive VPNs weve looked at.

Hide.me is available for Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and (for all five of you out there still rocking a Lumia) Windows 10 Mobile.

Performance

Hide.me says all of its more than 150 servers have a minimum of one-gigabit-per-second uplink. The company owns all of its own servers and does not use virtualized servers.

Overall, Hide.me was quite fast, scoring nearly 49 percent of the base speed. Thats an above-average score, but doesnt quite take down the current speed champ, HotSpot Shield.

Even if its not the fastest, speed is not something you have to worry about with Hide.me. At least when it comes to download speeds. Upload speeds were closer to average compared to other services.

Privacy, anonymity, and trust

IDG Hide.mes country list.

Hide.me makes all the right promises in its privacy policy. Hide.me does not record your website visits, and it doesnt store connection logs and timestamps that could match your VPN IP address in a given session with your real IP. The only thing Hide.me does track is bandwidth usage on a monthly basis, which is used for billing and network maintenance.

When you first sign up for Hide.me, the company only requires an email address, and it says it keeps it in encrypted form on its website to protect your privacy. You can pay for Hide.me with the standard credit cards and PayPal, and a wide variety of cryptocurrencies including Bitcoin, Dash, Ethereum, Litecoin, Monero, and Ripple.

The parent company of Hide.me is eVenture Ltd., and the official registered office is Level 2, Lot 19, Lazenda Commercial Centre Phase 3, 87007 Labuan, Federal Territory of Labuan, Malaysia. Hide.me does not publish the leadership or the team behind the company on its site, but a company representative told me the founder and CEO is Sebastian Schaub who, according to his LinkedIn profile at least, is based in Malaysia.

Thats a little surprising since most VPNs based in exotic locales are usually there in name only while the team is spread out across the globe.

Conclusion

Hide.me is a very capable service with excellent speeds and a very easy-to-understand interface. The privacy policy is also good, with the right promises, and the payment scheme allows for a good amount of anonymity. Its a good service and one that even beginners can enjoy, with a few customization options for power users.

Editors note: Because online services are often iterative, gaining new features and performance improvements over time, this review is subject to change in order to accurately reflect the current state of the service. Any changes to text or our final review verdict will be noted at the top of this article.
Its fair to say that not everyone prefers the new Skype desktop experience, a rather dramatic revamp of the Skype UI that is heavily influenced by other social media platforms. And if youre part of that camp, good news: Microsoft says it will leave the older, classic Skype in place for now.

In a post on the Microsoft community forums, Microsoft said that it will leave support for the desktop version of Skype 7, also known as Skype Classic, in place for some time. The original plan was to discontinue support for Skype 7 on Sept. 1, replacing it with the new Skype, AKA version 8. The goal was to ensure that all customers have the best possible Skype experience, and that there are no quality or reliability issues resulting from old technology and new technology interoperating, Microsoft explained.

The new desktop version of Skype boasts features like free HD video and screensharing calls, with up to 24 different users. Users can also share up to 300MB of files right within the Skype application. However, some users complained that Skypes reliance on a single window robbed them of their ability to multitask with separate conversations in multiple windows, and that features such as @mentions and especially reactionary emoji were unprofessional.

Note that the version of Skype thats being affected is the desktop version of Skype, most typically associated with Office 365which is why business users complained that Skype was becoming too consumery. The UWP version of Skype within Windows 10 will receive the new Skype experience this fall, as part of the Redstone 5 fall update, which Insiders are receiving. Skype for Business (which was originally Microsoft Lync) , meanwhile, has been absorbed into Microsoft Teams, which also blends some consumery features within a professional environment.

What this means for you: Skype is one of the most unnecessarily confusing apps within the Microsoft ecosystem, in part because video VOIP calls are becoming a feature, rather than a standalone product. (See: TiVo.) Chances are if you use Skype for business, youre already well aware of the pros and cons of each platform. What Microsofts decision does is preserve choice. Its a victory for consumers who made their voices heardwhich, for future reference, is typically the Feedback Hub app within Windows 10. Use it!
Google has just launched Android Pie, aka Android 9.0. As usual, the latest and greatest version of Android will only be on a short list of devices at firstPixels, and a handful of Android One and Project Treble phonesbut the release signals big things for Android. Here are the five new Android features you should check out first once your phone gets a piece of the pie.

Adaptive Battery

Battery life is notoriously hard to gauge on a phone with final software, let alone the Android P developer previews that Android fans have been playing with for months. Thats why the real test of Googles new Adaptive Battery feature (a collaboration with subsidiary DeepMind) will come when the final Pie release lands on all our phones for good.

Ryan Whitwam/IDG Adaptive Battery runs in the background, using A.I. to extend your phones battery life. It remains to be seen just how effective it will be.

Adaptive Battery is a new power management framework that learns from the way you use your phone. If you dont frequently use an app, the system wont let it wake up as often to run in the background. However, if you use that app most days before bed, your phone can preload it at the appropriate time so its ready to go. Its like an enhanced version of the existing app standby system.

Google says Adaptive Battery reduces app wakelocks by 30 percent, but well have to see how that works out in practice. We already know how the Pixel phones perform in terms of battery life, so well all be able to see if Googles AI promises amount to anything the more we use Pie.

Digital Wellbeing

Almost everyone has a smartphone, and we use them quite a lot. Some smartphone users wish they could pry themselves away from the phone a little more often, and Android Pie will give them the tools to do that. The toolset is called Digital Wellbeing, and its currently a beta program thats only available to Pixel phone owners running Pie.

Google The three pillars of Digital Wellbeing.

Once you successfully opt in to the beta, go to the Digital Wellbeing section in your settings, and check out the Dashboard, which will tell you how often you unlocked your phone, which apps you used the most, and how many notifications youve gotten each day. If any of those metrics concern you, you can set an app timer to enforce a limit on how long you can use certain apps. Spending too long poking around on Facebook during the day? Set a timer to keep you from being distracted.

Many who suffer from chronically poor sleep probably have their phones to blame. Its easy to waste hours on your phone before going to bed, and Android Pie aims to make that avoidable with Wind Down. This tool in Digital Wellbeing will automatically activate night light (a blue light filter) and Do Not Disturb mode at the desired time. Then, the screen slowly fades to grayscale to encourage you to get off your phone.

To learn more about Digital Wellbeing, check out our full primer and how-to guide.

Rotation toggle

A new button might not seem like a big deal, but this is a button you will probably use constantly in Android Pie. The rotation button lets you change the screen orientation without leaving auto-rotate enabled.

Ryan Whitwam/IDG Note the rotation control to the right of home button.

Auto-rotate can be extremely touchy, flipping your screen when you tilt the phone just a little too far on accident. Turning it off means you cant rotate the screen unless you open the settings to temporarily allow the change. Android Pies rotation button appears at the bottom of your screen when you rotate the phone while auto-rotate is disabled. Tap that, and the screen rotates just that one time. The screen orientation remains locked until you press that button again.

Gesture Navigation

Android has used the same navigation buttons for about six years, which is forever in smartphone time. Apple rolled out gesture navigation on the iPhone X, and users have mostly adapted to it. This opens the door for Google to take Android down the gesture nav route, which is a good thing, especially because the gesture nav systems from Huawei, Motorola, and others are all wildly inconsistent.

Ryan Whitwam/IDG Swipe up from the pill, and see what happens.

In Android Pie, you can enable gesture navigation in the settingsits called Swipe up on home button. The home button becomes a pill, which you still press to go home. Swiping up moves into a revamped multitasking mode, and you can swipe right on the pill to advance through open apps. Meanwhile, a back button appears on the left of the pill when needed.

This is an important feature not because its good (Googles first shot is rather clunky) but because its necessary. OEMs keep implementing their own gesture controls, and theres no standard framework. The move toward edge-to-edge displays also necessitates cleaning up the bottom of the display for improved aesthetics. Android Pies gesture nav is the first step toward that. We just hope it gets better.

To learn more about how gesture navigation works, check out Michael Simons primer.

Wi-Fi RTT

Google always adds a plethora of new APIs in each Android release, most of which are of little consequence on the user side. However, support for Wi-Fi RTT (round-trip-time) could change the way you use your phone to get around. GPS can locate your device to within a few dozen meters, but Wi-Fi RTT can pinpoint you within one to two meters.

Ryan Whitwam/IDG With the ability to pinpoint location within a few meters, Wi-Fi RTT could open up a whole new world of indoor mapping.

This technology measures how long it takes for signals to pass between nearby WiFi access points and your device. With pings from three or more APs, your phone can triangulate your exact location. You dont need to be connected to them for this to work, either.

Wi-Fi RTT could allow you to navigate indoor spaces with incredible precision. Imagine being able to get directions inside an office building or mall in real time. This feature is tied to the existing privacy controls for location services, so you can deny apps access to your RTT location.
Good Tuesday Morning, Fellow Seekers.

If state voters know two things about Republican governor candidate Scott Wagner, they know he's a fan of President Donald Trump and that he prides himself on being vehemently anti-abortion.

And if reproductive rights advocates have their way, they're not going to let voters forget the latter - and what's at stake in November - if Wagner beats Gov. Tom Wolf at the polls.

Activists at Planned Parenthood Advocates, the women's health group's political wing, have released a snippet of video recorded during a town hall appearance in York over the weekend that they say underlines the threat Wagner would, if elected, pose to abortion rights.

In the video, an attendee can be heard asking Wagner flat-out whether he'd "support President Trump appointing a Supreme Court justice that will overturn Roe v. Wade."

Wagner, with running-mate Jeffrey Bartos at his side, tells his interrogator that "the answer to that question is that I support President Trump's pick, and whatever happens in the Supreme-- I can't sit here and predict, I'm not a lawyer. But I'm 100 percent pro-life, and I support the president's pick."

That's the second time that Wagner has used that "whatever happens" line when he was asked about the Supreme Court potentially overturning Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that legalized abortion.

Speaking to WHYY-FM after a town hall meeting in Montgomery County last month, Wagner called the debate over Roe "a federal issue."

When he was reminded that a ban bill could reach his desk as a result of the debate over abortion reverting to the states as a result of any future high court action, Wagner said "it may, and whatever happens, happens.Right now, in this interview, I'm not committing to anything."

At the time, Wagner's campaign re-affirmed Wagner's opposition to abortion and his commitment to signing anti-abortion legislation if elected. But Wagner "would also want to review any new bill that comes before him and make a decision based on the specifics of the legislation," the campaign said.

Now here's why this is a big deal:

As we've noted before, assuming he's confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Trump's SCOTUS pick, federal appellate Judge Brett Kavanaugh, could be a decisive vote in any challenge to Roe v. Wade.

And in the event that a more conservative court whittles away at, or overturns Roe, the battle over abortion rights would revert to statehouses across the land. And that has such reproductive rights groups as Planned Parenthood and The Women's Law Project, looking to friendly governors and Legislatures to protect access to abortion.

Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf, a Planned Parenthood volunteer, has already vowed to veto any bill further restricting access to abortion.

Last year, Wolf vetoed a GOP-backed bill that would have banned abortion after 20 weeks, and outlawed one of the most common second-trimester procedures. Wagner backed that one.

A bill that would ban abortions based on a diagnosis of Down syndrome is parked in the state Senate, where it's the subject of a turf war between dueling Republican legislative leaders. Wagner is also co-sponsor.

Wagner also backs a terrible House bill that would ban abortion after as little as six weeks - when most women don't even know they're pregnant. Wolf says he'll veto that one too if it ever reaches his desk.

The fight over abortion access, meanwhile, is unfolding over multiple fronts at the state level.

Last week, Wolf and Attorney General Josh Shapiro, also a Democrat, jointly announced their opposition to a proposed Trump administration regulation eliminating a requirement in federal law that pregnant women have an opportunity to receive information and counseling on all available health care options.

The move is largely seen as an attempt to choke off all federal funding to Planned Parenthood.

Wolf "is the champion we need to protect the health and rights of Pennsylvania women and families," Planned Parenthood Advocates said in a statement. "Scott Wagner has promised to take us backward. He's intent on banning abortion and stripping Pennsylvanians of their health care and rights.

The group is putting its money where its mouth is. Earlier this summer, Planned Parenthood Advocates said it would spend $1.5 million to get Wolf and other down-ballot Democrats elected in November.
NEW YORK -- Workers found a dead fetus in a toilet on a plane at LaGuardia Airport early Tuesday, officials and sources said.

WNBC New York reported that a cleaning crew found the five- or six-month-old fetus in the toilet of one of the American Airlines plane's bathrooms.

The Airbus A321 was just outside a hanger at the time of the discovery, sources said. The plane had arrived at LaGuardia at 10:44 p.m. Monday from Charlotte, N.C.

"As we continue to learn more about this tragic and sensitive situation we are actively cooperating with law enforcement in its investigation," the airline said in a statement.

Port Authority police and Queens prosecutors are investigating.

The plane was not scheduled to depart LaGuardia again until Wednesday morning, records show.

The city Medical Examiner transported the baby to the Queens morgue, sources said.

By Thomas Tracy and Graham Rayman, New York Daily News (TNS)
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The first set of U.S. sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early Tuesday under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, targeting financial transactions that involve U.S. dollars, Iran's automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold.

U.S sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November.

The stiff economic sanctions ratchet up pressure on the Islamic Republic despite statements of deep dismay from European allies, three months after Trump pulled the U.S. out of the international accord limiting Iran's nuclear activities.

Promises kept: Today, President @realDonaldTrump "renewed sanctions on Iran as he followed through on vows to unravel the Obama-era nuclear deal with Tehran," Rich Edson reports for Fox News.



Read more in tonight's edition of West Wing Reads: https://t.co/xb9E3Be3a3 pic.twitter.com/8tpA7up5fn  The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 7, 2018

Trump declared the landmark 2015 agreement had been "horrible," leaving the Iranian government flush with cash to fuel conflict in the Middle East.

Iran accused the U.S. of reneging on the nuclear agreement, signed by the Obama administration, and of causing recent Iranian economic unrest. European allies said they "deeply regret" the U.S. action.

As the sanctions loomed Monday, Trump said in a statement, "We urge all nations to take such steps to make clear that the Iranian regime faces a choice: either change its threatening, destabilizing behavior and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation."

The United States is working with allies to pressure the Iranian regime and achieve an agreement that denies all paths to a nuclear weapon.https://t.co/YQtmSA9hZX pic.twitter.com/qIUskRMfMC  The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 6, 2018

Trump warned that those who don't wind down their economic ties to Iran "risk severe consequences."

The Europeans didn't like any of it.

Despite Trump's claims, the accord "is working and delivering on its goal" of limiting Iran's nuclear program, said a statement by European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and the foreign ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

The ministers said the Iran deal is "crucial for the security of Europe, the region and the entire world," and the European Union issued a "blocking statute" Monday to protect European businesses from the impact of the sanctions.

Here are the facts: Iran has exploited the global financial system to support terrorism, promote ruthless regimes, destabilize the region, and abuse the human rights of its own people. https://t.co/YQtmSzRGBn pic.twitter.com/qgFHkuCmqZ  The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 6, 2018

A senior administration official, briefing reporters under ground rules requiring anonymity, said the United States is "not particularly concerned" by EU efforts to protect European firms from the sanctions.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Iran still can rely on China and Russia to keep its oil and banking sectors afloat. Speaking in a television interview, he also demanded compensation for decades of American "intervention" in the Islamic Republic.

Months of uncertainty surrounding the sanctions have already further hurt Iran's economy. The country's rial currency has tanked, and the downturn has sparked protests across the nation.

The "Trump Administration wants the world to believe it's concerned about the Iranian people," Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a statement posted to Twitter. But, he said, the reimposed sanctions would endanger "ordinary Iranians."

"US hypocrisy knows no bounds," he said.

U.S. officials insisted the American government stands with the people of Iran and supports many of their complaints against their own government.

National security adviser John Bolton said Iran's leadership is on "very shaky ground," but he insisted economic pressure from the Trump administration is not an attempt at "regime change."

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said sanctions are an important pillar in U.S. policy toward Iran and will remain in place until the Iranian government radically changes course.

"They've got to behave like a normal country. That's the ask. It's pretty simple," said Pompeo, en route Sunday from a three-nation trip to Southeast Asia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a firm foe of the Iranian government, said the sanctions symbolize "the determination to block Iran's regional aggression as well as its continuous plans to arm itself with nuclear weapons."

He called on the countries of Europe to join the U.S., saying, "The time has come to stop talking; the time has come to do."

The U.S has long designated Iran as the world's foremost state sponsor of terrorism, Pompeo noted Sunday, adding that the Islamic Republic cannot expect to be treated as an equal in the international community until it halts such activities.

He said that "there's no evidence today of a change in their behavior," and in the meantime "we're going to enforce the sanctions."

By SUSANNAH GEORGE and ZEKE MILLER, Associated Press. AP writers Nasser Karimi in Tehran and Ian Deitch in Jerusalem contributed.
The worldwide clergy sex abuse crisis is poised to implode anew in this country as Pennsylvania prepares as early as Wednesday to release a long-awaited grand jury report on hundreds of predatory priests.

Members of the clergy had until Tuesday to appeal to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to have their names redacted from the 900-page report. The court had set a deadline of Aug. 7 by which petitioners seeking such a redaction could appeal to the court.

An unspecified number of clergy on Tuesday filed challenges to the latest version of the report, according to The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, which cited sources familiar with the matter.

Under the court order, the state now has until Aug. 14 to release the report.

The final signal to release the report could rest in the hands of Senior Judge John M. Cleland, of the Court of Common Pleas of McKean County, who was appointed as the special master to hear challenges regarding the redaction of names.

The McKean County judge once presided over the Jerry Sandusky criminal case.

Cleland could defer to the office of state Attorney General Josh Shapiro to release the 900-page report. Shapiro's office led the 18-month investigation.

The report, which remains under seal, is expected to be one of the most scathing and comprehensive investigations into the worldwide scandal embroiling the 1.2-billion member church.

In July, the church saw the conviction of the most senior Catholic official in the world for failure to protect children. Archbishop Philip Wilson of of Adelaide, Australia, was convicted for concealing child sexual abuse.

Wilson, 67, is widely expected to appeal his conviction, which is likely to include 12-month sentence in home detention.

Pope Francis is also dealing with a spiraling scandal in Chile involving predatory priests and complicit bishops. Francis last month accepted the resignation of Cardinal Theodore E. McCarrick, a prominent Vatican diplomat and former archbishop of Washington, D.C. McCarrick has been credibly accused of sexually molesting a minor and seminarians.

The 88-year-old McCarrick had been removed from public ministry per orders from Francis after church officials determined that allegations he sexually abused a teenager in New York more than 40 years ago were "credible and substantiated."

Here in Pennsylvania, state investigators earlier this year wrapped up the investigation into the dioceses of Allentown, Erie, Greensburg, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Scranton. Together, the dioceses are home to more than 1.7 million Catholics.

According to unsealed excerpts of the grand jury report, more than 300 "predator priests" identified by name are accused of committing criminal or morally reprehensible conduct. The vast majority of those named will be publicly identified in the report.

The grand jury concluded that victims were "brushed aside, in every part of the state, by church leaders who preferred to protect the abusers and their institutions above all."

The high court on July 27 set rigid deadlines for the release of the redacted report.

Amid a secret and behind-the-scenes legal battle to derail the release of the report, the high court also did not entertain motions to postpone the release of the redacted report.

With the release of the deadline fast approaching, Pennsylvania bishops have unleashed a flurry of measures ahead of what is certain to be a bombshell report documented a legacy of abuse in the six dioceses at the center of the investigation.

Last week, Harrisburg Bishop Ronald Gainer released the names of 71 priests who have been historically accused of child sex crimes. Gainer on Monday added a priest to that list.

Gainer also took an unprecedented step in ordering the removal of the names of all of his predecessors from any diocesan property. Gainer said his predecessors dating back to 1947 had failed to protect children from predators.

Additionally, Gainer suspended all previous confidentiality agreements brokered with victims, and designed to protect priests.

Erie Bishop Lawrence Persico has taken similar measures. He has published the list of 62 credibly accused clergy, including one of his predecessors, Bishop Alfred M. Watson.

Portions of the grand jury report so far unsealed by the high court show that state investigators found that church leaders were more interested in preventing scandal than protecting children, in some cases discouraging victims from going to police or pressuring law enforcement officials to end or avoid investigations, according to a court filing.

On Friday Erie Bishop Donald Trautman dropped his challenge to the report's publication in its current form after prosecutors agreed some of its broad claims were not specifically directed at him.

Trautman headed the Erie Diocese from 1990 to 2012.

Pennsylvania's two other Catholic communities - the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown and the Archdiocese of Philadelphia - have been the subject of previous investigations into clergy sex abuse. The findings were nearly identical: scores of priests over the years went undeterred and unpunished for the sexual abuse of children. At times church higher-ups shielded the predatory priests from police and from parishioners.
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Richard Ross called Monday's shooting "an all-out, absolute tragedy."

Philadelphia Police Officer Jaison Potts was injured in a shooting Monday.

When Philadelphia police attempted to serve a warrant at a home in the city's Germantown neighborhood, a man who lived there thought someone was trying to break in. He opened fire, shooting one officer in the face, and the homeowner was killed as police returned fire, Action News 6 ABC of Philadelphia reports.

Police were there to serve an arrest warrant for the man's grandson, according to reports.

The shooting occurred early Monday morning on the 4800 block of Knox Street, injuring 49-year-old officer Jaison Potts, who is a 20-year veteran of the police force.

While police say they repeatedly announced themselves and knocked on the door of the home, the family says they only heard what sounded like someone trying to break in, which is when 59-year-old Ricardo Giddings shot at the police, 6 ABC reports.

Police fired back, killing Giddings and striking 67-year-old Joanne Giddings in the leg, reports indicate.

Meanwhile, Officer Potts, who is going into surgery today, is expected to survive.
A South Carolina man is in custody, accused of raping three Lancaster-area girls between 1998 and 2014, according to state police.

Kurt J. Strenck, 47, was apprehended in South Carolina, where he lives, on July 31, according to police. He was charged with three counts of rape, four counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, three counts of unlawful contact with a minor, four counts of aggravated indecent assault, three counts of corruption of minors, two counts of statutory sexual assault and one count of criminal attempt of indecent assault.

Police said two girls, ages not given, reported being sexually abused between 1998 and 2014. A third girl was sexually assaulted between 2008 and 2009, police say. All assaults occurred in Leacock Township.

Strenck will be extradited to Pennsylvania on the charges.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to contact state police at the Lancaster Barracks.
Two months after the holdup occurred, state police at Jonestown made an arrest Tuesday in the robbery of a midstate motel.

George Kemrer, 31, of Lebanon, is accused of the June 16 robbery at the Lantern Lodge in Lebanon County's Jackson Township. Police said Kemrer walked into the office of the business and demanded money from a desk attendant. No weapon was displayed.

Kemrer is charged with robbery, making terroristic threats, theft, receiving stolen property and simple assault, police said.
U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa, is no fan of President Trump's costly tariffs and believes they are doing some damage to not only Pennsylvania businesses but America's economy as a whole.

So he believes a change in direction is needed and came to Harrisburg on Tuesday to gather first-hand accounts to help him make that point to Trump.

Sitting with a group of 21 business and industrial leaders at the Pennsylvania Manufacturers' Association headquarters just down the street from the state Capitol, Toomey got what he came for.

He heard the tariff on tinplate, a type of steel use that container manufacturer BWAY Corp. of York uses in making cans, is making it hard to compete with cans manufactured overseas. It's nearing the point that company executive vice president Leslie Bradshaw said the company is starting to question whether they need to move their production - and jobs - to another country.

Nicolas Bisaccia of Bingaman & Son Lumber Inc. in Snyder County said the market uneasiness from the trade wars and retaliatory tariffs have hurt his sales of hardwood to China, the primary consumer of American hardwood. What's more, he said this trade war has the potential to put smaller mom and pop lumber companies out of business.

Sheila Borne of Penn State Health spoke of the adverse impact the tariffs are having on the contingency costs associated with the expansion of the Penn State Children's Hospital.

Jessica Meyers of Harrisburg-based JEM Group, a commercial builder, spoke of a public project that got delayed but how the cost of wood for it increased by 20 percent and steel by 35 percent as a result of the tariffs. She told Toomey the project is still going to be built but it will be reduced in scope as a result of the price change.

David Black, president and CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber, added that there are other businesses he knows of that aren't in a position to say what impact the tariffs are having on them but he fears, "the worst is yet to come."

Toomey shared with the group that Trump "knows exactly what I think. He knows we disagree very much on this" trade war that the president is waging with foreign countries. But he shared he has reason to think that the president may come around on this issue.

"I think in some cases senators have persuaded him not to do something that he probably was inclined to do. So though we're concerned with some of the developments arguably they could have been worse," Toomey said.

The president's use of tariffs is all about gaining leverage to achieve other objectives from trade partners.

In China's case, he said it's to stop the theft of American intellectual property. In the case of Mexico and Canada, it's to renegotiate terms to the North American Free Trade Agreement that the U.S. has with those countries.

Toomey questioned that strategy as well as the president's authority to impose the tariffs.

He along with U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., who chairs the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, have introduced legislation that bars the president from using national security concerns to invoke tariffs without congressional approval. He said that provision in a 1962 law was intended to be used only in emergencies and in times of war to protect threatened industries.

"It's my view the president invoking national security as the justification for imposing tariffs on steel and aluminum imported from places like Canada, Mexico and the European Union is a misuse of that," he said. "I think it's long past time for Congress to take that responsibility back.

Toomey said the measure doesn't yet have the votes to pass but he is willing to continue having discussions with the Trump Administration "if that gets us to the right place."

The bottom line, the senator said, is the American economy is robust right now and the tariffs that have been imposed so far are "narrow enough and doesn't appear to have done deep damage yet."

But he added if the tariffs increase and/or are expanded to more goods or more countries that could become a threat to "what so far has been a really, really strong economic story and I want the strong story to continue."
Hunters may be missing bullets for the upcoming gun deer season

Gaylord
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Fox News judicial analyst Andrew Napolitano on Monday made very clear that in his opinion Donald Trump Jr. can now legally be charged for committing the crime of conspiracy.

The highly-respected Napolitano said this is true even if Russians did not give him damaging information about then-Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, as he and others have always maintained.

Fox News Andrew Napolitano explains why Trump Jr. could go to jail for meeting with Russians: The crime is the agreement

Fox News' Andrew Napolitano explains why Trump Jr. could go to jail for meeting with Russians: The crime is the agreement https://t.co/JUdnpMA946  Raw Story (@RawStory) August 6, 2018

During an appearance on Fox News Outnumbered program, Napolitano gave his in-depth legal response to President Donald Trumps tweet on Sunday throwing Don Jr. under the bus. The president posted that his son had arranged the meeting with a Russian lawyer at Trump Tower in June of 2016 to get dirt on Clinton that Trump could use in his campaign for president. This tweet seems to have increased the likelihood that Don Jr. will end up going to jail.

Concerning whether or not there was collusion Napolitano explained to the shows co-hosts:

There is no such law and there is no such word in the law as collusion, thats a Hollywood and media term. The legal term is conspiracy. If the Trump campaign and the Russians work together, but was there an agreement to work together?

The crime is the agreement. Whether the agreement was put into place or not. Thats what Bob Mueller is looking for.

Outnumbered Co-host Melissa Francis asked Napolitano why Hillary Clinton had not herself been charged with conspiracy for funding the research for the famous Steele dossier, which provided intelligence services with detailed information about connections between Trump and the Russian government.

Except that special counsel Robert Mueller is not investigating the Steele dossier, Napolitano replied, taking the wind out of Francis sails.

The Fox News legal analyst then continued by saying:

Mueller is investigating whether or not the people from the Trump campaign entered into an agreement to receive dirt on Hillary. Whether the dirt was received or not is not important. The crime  if there were a crime  is receiving anything of value from a foreign person entity or government, if there is an agreement to do that.

You may argue and Ive argued this unsuccessfully that an agreement that ends up not being carried out shouldnt be a crime but it is. Its the prosecutors favorite crime, its called conspiracy. Its the easiest to prove, all you need to know is who agreed and that one of them took a step in furtherance of the agreement.

What Napolitano has done with his comments is take away any doubt that Donald Trump Jr. committed at least one felony in setting up the June 2016 Trump Tower meeting. Not only that, but he also made clear that the crime is easy to prove and Mueller has all the evidence he needs to convict the younger Trump and send him to jail.
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Rick Gates on Monday took the stand in the federal fraud case against his former business partner, ex-Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, testifying that he committed crimes while working for Manafort.

Rick Gates testifies he committed crimes while working for Paul Manafort  https://t.co/IKkmKwjO9Y  Fox News Politics (@foxnewspolitics) August 6, 2018

Federal prosecutor Greg Andres asked witness Gates:

Were you involved in criminal activity when you worked for Paul Manafort?

Yes, Gates replied.

Did you commit a crime? Andres asked.

Yes, Gates said.

Gates, the prosecutions star witness against Manafort in his criminal trials, had entered into a plea deal with prosecutors months ago. Under the terms of this deal he has agreed to cooperate with prosecutors in the case and provide testimony against his former business partner.

The federal judge in Manaforts trial, U.S. District Court Judge T.S. Ellis III, told the prosecution team last week in court that in his opinion (which is important) they cant prove conspiracy in the case unless prosecutors call Gates to the stand. Obviously Ellis believes that testimony from Gates is extremely important if the prosecutors are to prove the charges they have brought against Trumps former campaign chairman.

Judge Ellis issued his warning in a back-and-forth exchange with the prosecutors after they had suggested the possibility that Gates might not be called to the stand after all, which came as a complete shock.

Manafort is facing multiple charges of bank and tax fraud related to his work in Ukraine where he was reportedly paid $60 million for his political consulting on behalf of a Putin crony. He has pleaded not guilty to all of the charges, which has been a surprise since the evidence against him is overwhelming and most people expected him to flip like Gates and cooperate with Mueller in his case against Donald Trump and his family.

Manaforts defense team said during opening arguments last week that their plan is to paint their client as a victim, and to blame Gates for the alleged crimes.

Gates was Manaforts right-hand man for over 10 years and they worked closely together on a day-to-day basis in the Ukraine. He was the person who often handled day-to-day business for Manafort, and thus knows about the financial crimes and reporting deficiencies Manafort has been charged with.

Rick Gates had his hand in the cookie jar and couldnt let his boss find out, Manafort defense attorney Thomas Zehnle told the jury while presenting his opening arguments. But few legal observers expect this defense strategy to work for Manafort, and multiple convictions are expected.
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As if the American people needed another reason to oppose the confirmation of Donald Trumps Supreme Court pick, Brett Kavanaugh, the ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee delivered one.

Democratic Rep. Adam Smith warned on Monday that if Trump refuses to cooperate with a possible Mueller subpoena for an interview, its no guarantee that the conservative Supreme Court would force him to comply.

Congressman Smith said that the Supreme Court has essentially become a wholly political entity and would likely go along with whatever Trump and his GOP loyalists want.

In an interview with CNN, Smith said: Legally, its clear: You cant ignore a subpoena, even if youre the president of the United States.  However, remember the Supreme Court that we have. If this goes all the way up to this Supreme Court  this Supreme Court seems to make its decisions based on what Donald Trump and the Republican Party want, as opposed to precedents or the Constitution.

Brett Kavanaugh thinks SCOTUS wrongly decided on Nixon

For clues about what Trumps new Supreme Court pick would mean for the ongoing Robert Mueller investigation, all we need to do is examine his previous statements.

As the same CNN report pointed out, Brett Kavanaugh  said in 1999 that the Nixon case may have been wrongly decided in an interview with a publication called Washington Lawyer.

The Supreme Court unanimously forced Nixon to turn over the infamous Watergate tapes, and Kavanaugh cast doubt on that 1974 decision.

If that same mindset is applied to forcing Trump to comply with a potential Robert Mueller subpoena, it could save the president from the special counsel.

For the American people demanding answers about the presidents corruption, this is an unacceptable outcome. It makes it even more critical that Democrats in Congress stand united against Brett Kavanaughs confirmation.
Small businesses across the U.S. are facing shortages of temporary workers because of the Trump administrations new limits on hiring foreign workers through a visa program, NBC News reported Monday.

Hundreds of smaller businesses are facing increased demand for temporary workers, but cant find them because of numerical caps put in place on the number of H-2B visas available for them to hire foreign workers on a seasonal basis. This is why many Republicans are not in favor of Trumps immigration crackdown.

If I can fill my workforce with local guys, I would do that. I want to hire Americans first because its easier for me, but most of the American workers dont want temporary jobs, said Matt Davis, a Texas landscaping business owner and Trump supporter.

The Trump administration last year changed the H-2B visa program to a lottery system which now makes it difficult for businesses which rely on foreign workers to meet their customers needs and demands.

In addition to the lottery system change, the number of visas available through the program was reduced to just 66,000, which is a very small number for the entire country. And to make things worse for the small business owners, the number of available guest-worker visas is now being split between the summer and winter seasons. This has severely reduced the number of workers who are available to American businesses at a given time, and has left many of them coming up short.

President Trump has been touting his America First agenda during campaign rallies and at White House events. He apparently has gained a lot of support from his unsophisticated supporters who dont know that immigrant workers are the backbones of many American industries and are need to keep the economy going. He was always talking on the campaign trail about his goal of putting American workers above immigrants seeking jobs, but he himself wasnt aware how he would end up killing many of the businesses whose owners supported him.

In other words, neither Trump nor his voters knew what they were saying, or doing, in the area of immigration restrictions.

The Trump Organization itself has on many occasions sought to hire temporary foreign workers through the same H-2B visa program that it is now restricting. These workers are needed for seasonal fluctuations in work at Trump resorts and hotels.

Even as he has limited immigrant workers for American small businesses Trump himself has been hiring these immigrants for his own properties. He pushed America First and Hire American as policy priorities, and said that small businesses are critically important in creating a safe, strong and prosperous America.

But newly released industry figures, as well as interviews with business owners, make clear that the current H-2B visa limits are severely hurting the very people Trump says he wants to help.

Many jobs going unfilled now involve back-breaking labor that U.S. workers dont want to do, the small business owners said.

Without enough guest immigrant workers the burden is greatly increased on full-time American employees also, causing the business owners even more labor problems.

Many have been going to Washington and writing letters to

their representatives telling them that they may go bankrupt if the visa program isnt fixed very soon.

One such business owner, George Hohman, is very pessimistic about what the future holds for him and his Ohio-based landscaping business.

He said that many of his regular customers have already switched to his competitors, so he had to terminate a contract with a local marketing company and close a satellite office.

Hes also seen his recruitment costs skyrocket as hes tried to find new workers. The net result is that he is forecasting his business will lose about $250,000.

We lost a bunch of revenue that we wont get back, Hohman told NBC News. Were in damage control mode right now. He also said that the government has not done enough to listen to the plight of seasonal businesses that rely on the foreign visa program, and believes that the immigration debate has hindered reform efforts.

Do I think theyre doing enough? Absolutely not. Have they heard from us? Absolutely, they have, Hohman said. President Trumps companies use H-2B, and hes gotten his visas for his companies. I feel like we are pawns in the immigration reform debate.

No wonder Trumps approval ratings on immigration are at an all-time low. By doing just what he wants to do he is hurting the very people who elected him to office, and chances are they will have their revenge this fall.
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The tasteless commander-in-chief continued to take shots at California on Monday, even as the states wildfires expanded further over the weekend.

Instead of showing leadership and compassion at a difficult time, Donald Trump falsely slammed Californias state government for diverting water into the Pacific Ocean as the fires continue to rage.

California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized, Trump said.

California wildfires are being magnified & made so much worse by the bad environmental laws which arent allowing massive amounts of readily available water to be properly utilized. It is being diverted into the Pacific Ocean. Must also tree clear to stop fire from spreading!  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 6, 2018

Experts laughed off Trumps claims

Its bad enough that Trumps response to the disaster in California is devoid of compassion and leadership. But to make matters worse, his claims about state environmental laws and policies are completely removed from reality.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection spokeswoman Lynette Round said shes not aware of any water shortage as it relates to the ongoing wildfire battle  and she would know if there was one.

UC Merced professor specializing in wildfire and climatology, LeRoy Westerling, told the paper that Trumps statement on the fires boggles the mind.

We do manage all of our rivers in California, and all the water is allocated many times over. So Im not sure what he was recommending, he added. Even if we eliminated all habitat for riparian species and fish, and allowed saltwater intrusion into the delta and set up a sprinkler system over the state, that wouldnt compensate for greater moisture loss from climate change.

Trump refuses to acknowledge the real culprit: climate change

Instead of acknowledging that climate change  which he calls a Chinese hoax  is making these wildfires more frequent and more intense, Donald J. Trump is picking a fight with the states governor.

And, to nobodys surprise, he has no idea what the hell hes talking about.

As California continues to battle what is now the second largest wildfire in state history, they are now forced to deal with another flaming orange, out-of-control disaster in the White House.
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By Jessica DiNapoli

(Reuters)  Mattress Firm Inc, the largest U.S. mattress retailer, is considering a potential bankruptcy filing as it seeks ways to get out of costly store leases and shut some of its 3,000 locations that are losing money, people familiar with the matter said.

Mattress Firms deliberations offer the latest example of a U.S. brick-and-mortar retailer struggling financially amid competition from e-commerce firms such as Amazon.com Inc. Shares of Mattress Firm competitor Tempur Sealy International Inc jumped on the news and ended trading on Monday up 5.2 percent at $52.64.

Mattress Firms South African parent, Steinhoff International Holdings NV <SNHJ.J>, has been working on a deal to restructure the debt of some subsidiaries with its creditors, following an accounting scandal. Creditors agreed last month to hold off on their debt claims for three years.

Steinhoff acquired Mattress Firm for $3.8 billion in 2016.

Both Houston-headquartered Mattress Firm and Steinhoff are working with consulting firm AlixPartners LLP, the two sources said this week. AlixPartners helps companies plan and execute turnaround strategies, and is often brought in to lay the ground for bankruptcy.

The sources, who requested not to be identified because the plans are private, cautioned that Mattress Firm has not made any final decisions and its plans could change.

Representatives for Mattress Firm and AlixPartners declined to comment. Steinhoff did not respond to requests for comment.

Filing for bankruptcy would allow Mattress Firm to clean up its real estate portfolio and improve cash flow and profitability, analysts at Piper Jaffray Companies wrote in a research note last week.

Many retailers pursue bankruptcy to reject leases, a move to slim their store count, cut their costs and reorganize to continue their business. U.S. discount footwear retailer Payless ShoeSource Inc, for example, closed roughly 700 mall-based stores in bankruptcy last year, while childrens clothing shop Gymboree Corp closed about 300.

To be sure, some retailers shut huge swaths of their store base outside of bankruptcy. Bebe stores Inc <BEBE.PK> closed nearly all its retail locations without filing for bankruptcy last year, negotiating a deal with its landlords instead.

Mattress Firm lost Tempur Sealy International Inc, the maker of popular mattress brand Tempur-Pedic, as a supplier last year, limiting its offerings. Mattress Firm secured a $225 million asset-backed revolving loan last year.

Steinhoff booked a $12 billion write-down earlier this year relating to accounting irregularities.

Steinhoff also owns discount chains Poundland in the United Kingdom and Ackermans in South Africa.

Mattress Firm acquired HMK Mattress Holdings LLC, the parent company of competitor Sleepys, in 2016 for $780 million and then rebranded the shops. Sleepys had over 1,050 stores on the U.S. East Coast and Illinois.

(Reporting by Jessica DiNapoli in New York; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
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Former CIA Director John Brennan said that Trump couldnt have gotten the warning that his campaign was under federal investigation in 2016, because warning Trump would have compromised the investigation.

On MSNBCs Deadline: White House, host Nicolle Wallace asked, I guess what Im trying to get at is one of Donald Trumps attacks on the intelligence community where you spent the vast majority of your career and on law enforcement, which is both sides of those, CIA run by his hand-picked appointees and before that, by a political supporter, Mike Pompeo. The FBI now run by his hand-picked nominee, Christopher WRAY. He attacks them constantly. Is it  should he have been warned by the FBI that there were Russian agents in Trump Tower? Do you know if there was enough information in possession of the U.S. Government that in hindsight maybe he should have been warned?

Brennan answered, Certainly the campaign was given defensive briefings by the FBI what they should be on the lookout for. But if there were ongoing investigations at the time, which Jim Comey and others have acknowledged that in late July, there were  those investigations were opened. Its very, very difficult to reveal details of an investigation while at the same time protecting the integrity of that investigation. So I know that the bureau tried to balance their need to warn and to advise the two campaigns about the potential for foreign interference. But at the same time, continue to pull those investigative threads and they continued to pull them throughout the course of the campaign and during the period between election and inauguration day and subsequent to that. But the bureau has to be able to protect sources and methods and be able to ensure that their investigation is going to be able to continue.

Trump couldnt be warned because he was a subject of an investigation

Trump has consistently wanted law enforcement to tip him off and give him inside information so that he can avoid trouble. The presidents main gripe is that law enforcement wont give him the information that he needs to avoid getting busted. Brennan explained that Trump was briefed on what to look for, but he could not be told that his campaign was under investigation, because doing so would have compromised the investigation itself.

The fact that law enforcement would tip off Trump means that the investigation is being handled in a professional and objective manner. Trumps claims of a witch hunt are bogus, and John Brennan explained why.

For more discussion about this story join our Rachel Maddow and MSNBC group.
WASHINGTON (Reuters)  Federal prosecutors in New York are examining whether U.S. President Donald Trumps former lawyer, Michael Cohen, committed tax fraud, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the investigation.

Cohen, who was Trumps personal lawyer, has not been charged with any crime. The FBI seized documents and files as part of investigations by federal prosecutors in New York stemming in part from a referral by the U.S. special counsels office looking into possible coordination between Trump 2016 campaign aides and Russia.

Moscow denies interfering in the U.S. election and Trump denies collusion by his campaign, describing the probe as a political witch hunt.

Cohen did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

(Reporting by Lisa Lambert; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
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Fox News foreign correspondent Conor Powell abruptly resigned from his job Friday after nine years with the network. Based in Jerusalem, the well-regarded journalist announced his decision briefly in a Facebook post. He said he would be returning to his home in the United States.

After nearly 9 years, I have decided to resign from Fox News. Those of you who have spoken to me in recent months, you will understand why I am leaving FNC, his Facebook post said. To my many friends at the channel I wish you the best of luck.

Powells resignation comes at the same time that other reports have surfaced about unhappy Fox News staff members. Several staff members have reportedly said that they are tired of seeing the network transformed into a pro-Trump propaganda channel.

Powell has not publicly discussed the reasons that he is leaving his position with Fox. However, an unidentified source within the conservative news network reported that he is just one of many people on the Fox News team who are frustrated with the networks direction and editorial policies. They said the increasing emphasis on providing unqualified support for Trump-loving opinion hosts such as Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson, and Laura Ingraham has taken the place of actual news reporting. This has alienated and frustrated many employees who see their roles as reporting news, not just providing pro-Trump opinions, the source said.

Lots of reporters are very unhappy with directions of Fox News Corporation right now, the source reportedly explained. Fewer news shows. More opinion shows. Less resources for reporters to report.

Earlier this year Fox News military analyst Ralph Peters also stepped down from the network. Peters specifically said he was leaving because Fox had become nothing but a Trump propaganda operation. At the time Peters issued the following statement to explain why he resigned:

Today, I feel that Fox News is assaulting our constitutional order and the rule of law, while fostering corrosive and unjustified paranoia among viewers.

Fox has degenerated from providing a legitimate and much-needed outlet for conservative voices to a mere propaganda machine for a destructive and ethically ruinous administration.

Certainly many average Americans who are not fans of Fox News strongly agree with Peters conclusion that by providing a megaphone for Trump to tell his lies, and by becoming little more than state TV Fox is definitely assaulting our constitutional order and the rule of law.
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Two prominent right-wing supporters of President Donald Trump, Charlie Kirk and Candace Owens, told Philadelphia police they were attacked at a restaurant on Monday morning while trying to each breakfast.

Malik Joe, manager of Philadelphias Green Eggs Cafe on 13th Street in Center City, said Kirk and Owens had just started to look at the menu several people who appeared to demonstrators began to heckle and jeer them from other tables in the diner.

At first, I thought it was a vegan protest, Joe said. The protesters were screaming at one guy sitting in the window and I looked and he was laughing.

The protesters were screaming White Supremacist and something about immigrants. Joe said the protesters also flung food and objects.

Kirk and Owens are the leaders of the pro-Trump organization Turning Point USA.

Kirk is the founder and he is known as a conservative provocateur who President Trump often listens to. Apparently because Kirk has the ear of the president he has become notorious and well-known even outside conservative circles.

Kirk and Owens have been quoted as saying that they are culture warriors trying to save Western Civilization from liberals.

When they showed up at the Green Eggs Cafe they had just sat down at a window seat when the screaming started.

They said they immediately looked out their window and saw a large group of protesters approaching them, accompanied by members of the Philadelphia police.

Owens pulled out her phone. She tweeted the scene from inside and outside the restaurant, including the moment when one demonstrator dumped a cup of something onto Kirks head.

Charlie Kirk and I just got ATTACKED and protested by ANTIFA for eating breakfast. They are currently following us through Philly. ALL BLACK AND HISPANIC police force protecting us as they scream f*ck the racist police.

Charlie Kirk and I just got ATTACKED and protested by ANTIFA for eating breakfast. They are currently following us through Philly. ALL BLACK AND HISPANIC police force protecting us as they scream f*ck the racist police. pic.twitter.com/x5WUNr9mM6  Candace Owens (@RealCandaceO) August 6, 2018

Owens later wrote. They are currently following us through Philly. ALL BLACK AND HISPANIC police force protecting us as they scream.

Kirk also went on Twitter and wrote that the incident was a direct result of Maxine Waterss (D-Calif.) call for public harassment of Trump administration officials.

So @RealCandaceO & I were peacefully eating breakfast this morning. Within 20 mins ANTIFA mobilized a protest, started screaming at us, attacked us, & threatened death against us.

This is the face of the Democrats. Conservatives arent safe  @RepMaxineWaters called for this

So @RealCandaceO & I were peacefully eating breakfast this morning. Within 20 mins ANTIFA mobilized a protest, started screaming at us, attacked us, & threatened death against us This is the face of the Democrats Conservatives arent safe  @RepMaxineWaters called for this https://t.co/fLG0j3BsQq  Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) August 6, 2018

By saying that This is the face of the Democrats. Conservatives arent safe  Rep. Maxine Waters called for this Kirk was referring to a rally in Los Angeles in June, when Waters commented on the public harassment of Trump administration officials, although neither Kirk nor Owens are in the administration.

Waterss comments came after White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders was asked to leave a restaurant and Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen left a Mexican restaurant amid cries of Shame!

The American people have put up with this president long enough. What more do we need to see? What more lies do we need to hear? Waters said at the time. If you see anybody from that Cabinet in a restaurant, in a department store, at a gasoline station, you get out and you create a crowd, and you push back on them!

Press Secretary Sanders later said at the White House press briefing, that people should be allowed to disagree freely and without fear of harm regardless of their political leaning.
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By John Whitesides

(Reuters)  President Donald Trump faces a test of his political influence on Tuesday in a special congressional election in Ohio that has become a referendum on his leadership and a last chance to gauge Democratic strength ahead of Novembers midterm elections.

The Ohio race for a U.S. House of Representatives seat headlines a day of voting across the country that also features primaries in four other states. Other key contests include a Democratic battle for governor in Michigan between a progressive and a mainstream candidate and a high-profile conservative challenge to the incumbent Republican governor in Kansas.

Trump charged into the Ohio race, the final special election before November. He visited the reliably Republican 12th Congressional District over the weekend to try to head off an upset after polls showed a tightening battle between Republican Troy Balderson and Democrat Danny OConnor.

The district, split between suburban Columbus and rural areas, has been represented by a Republican since the early 1980s. Trump carried it by 11 percentage points in the 2016 presidential race.

But OConnor has wiped out most or all of Baldersons lead in opinion polls, and a Democratic win would set off alarm bells for Republicans already worried by a series of strong performances in special elections by Democrats in the Trump era.

A month ago this race was flying under the radar, but it has become nationalized and become more of a referendum on Trump, which really generates Democratic enthusiasm, said Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute in New Jersey.

A Monmouth poll last week showed the race was essentially a dead heat, down from a double-digit advantage for Balderson a month ago. In addition to more Democrats expressing high interest in the race, Murray said the shift was driven by independents unhappy with the status quo under Trump.

Trump again pushed Balderson in an early morning tweet before voting began.

Democrats must pick up 23 seats in the House and two seats in the U.S. Senate to gain control of those chambers and put a brake on Trumps agenda. All 435 House seats, 35 of 100 Senate seats and 36 of 50 governors offices are up for grabs in the Nov. 6 contests.

Other well-known Republicans also trekked to Ohio, including Vice President Mike Pence. A Republican advocacy group aired an ad featuring praise for Balderson, a state lawmaker, from Ohio Governor John Kasich, a frequent critic of Trump.

Republicans have tried to paint OConnor, a local county official, as a liberal who would follow House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi. But OConnor has walked a more moderate line, saying he wants new party leadership in Congress and would work with Republicans, while also criticizing the Trump tax cut.

Michigan, Missouri, Kansas and Washington also hold primaries on Tuesday.

The Democratic race for governor in Michigan offers the next test of the electoral power of the partys progressive wing, with former Detroit health director Abdul El-Sayed vying to become the countrys first Muslim governor against a more moderate Democrat, former state Senate leader Gretchen Whitmer.

El-Sayed was endorsed by U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and campaigned recently with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the young democratic socialist whose shocking New York primary upset in June made her a movement star.

In Kansas, Kris Kobach, a conservative prominent in the movement to restrict illegal immigration and pass more restrictive voting laws, is challenging Governor Jeff Colyer for the Republican gubernatorial nomination on Tuesday.

Trump endorsed Kobach, Kansas secretary of state, on Monday. Kobach was an immigration adviser to Trumps campaign in 2016 and was vice chairman of Trumps commission to investigate voting fraud before the panel collapsed.

Kobach welcomed Trumps support and likened his race to that of the unorthodox president, whose 2016 White House victory stunned many in the Republican Party.

This is definitely an establishment insider incumbent versus an insurgent conservative, he told Fox News on Tuesday.

(Reporting by John Whitesides; Editing by Colleen Jenkins, Cynthia Osterman and Jonathan Oatis)
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President Trumps tariffs dealt another blow to a red state as a TV-maker announced it would close the plant in Fairfield Country, South Carolina announced citing Trumps tariffs, resulting in layoffs for 126 jobs.

The Winnsboro plant of maker Element Electronics will be closed in response to the presidents tariffs, the local paper The State reported. The layoffs are to take effect in October.

The area has suffered blow after blow of job losses, and Element was one of the areas largest remaining employers according to the local paper.

The State obtained a letter by Element written to the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce in which they cited the layoff and closure is a result of the new tariffs that were recently and unexpectedly imposed on many goods imported from China, including the key television components used in our assembly operations in Winnsboro.

While its true that Trumps tariffs have resulted in big hits in his own areas of support, Trump won the state 54.9% to 40.8% for Clinton, but Fairfield County went for Clinton by 61.6% to 35.8% for Trump.

It will surprise zero people to learn that Fairfield County is majority black. The county is 56.6% black and 37.5% white. Im going to go out on a limb based on his lapsed, failed response to Puerto Rico and and attacks on California as it battles the largest wildfire in the states history to say that I wouldnt expect Trump to rush in with the same $12 billion welfare program he has devised for the farmers his tariffs are harming.

South Carolina is a heavy manufacturing state. Volvo has already said it might not be able to hire the 4,000 employees it was going to hire for a new plant in South Carolina and BMW said the tariffs threaten 45,000 jobs in South Carolina. On July 30, BMW increased the sales price of two of its sport utility vehicles produced in the U.S. due to increased costs that can be traced to Trumps tariffs.

Trump thinks hes saving blue collar jobs, or at least that is how he promotes his reckless tariff wars, but in fact he is taking aim at the very blue-collar voters that are his base. Reuters said in a TV commentary segment, Because the U.S. president is firing tariff bullets blindly in the world, the steel plates hes taxing are now being used to deflect those bullets back at American workers.

Trump approaches complex problems with the mindset of a child. Thus, he has just destroyed the careful work done to rebuild jobs in the United States by appealing to foreign auto companies to manufacture here. After taking a 27% hit in profits, Daimler told Reuters if the hits keep coming, the company will reconsider its production layout, including the possibility of establishing a new plant in China.

The Financial Times pointed out that Trumps on steel and aluminum products produced in other countries impact the auto sector and disrupt the entire industrial chain, Donald Trump has begun dismantling the world known by carmakers as he attempts to implement his election promise to bring back U.S. jobs and tear up international agreements he sees as harming blue-collar voters.

Trumps solutions appealed to people who believed that the jobs problems they faced were something an attitude could fix. A tougher attitude would solve things. But sadly, that is not the case and that tougher attitude has taken aim at those very blue-collar workers whose jobs prospects might have made them easy targets for Trumps big, empty promises.

Make America Great Again seems to be kicking its own voters right in the gut as collateral damage for a trade war going nowhere. Maybe Trump is happy to see people suffer who didnt vote for him (he seems to take pleasure in this), but he doesnt seem to get that the economy doesnt work in pockets like that. Even if it did it wouldnt be okay, but not only is he harming his own voters but hes harming the United States.

A president cant be a bull in the china shop and send their fixer lawyer in to threaten others when things go wrong on trade. Thats not how negotiation works in the real world.
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For people who dislike Donald Trump one of the most puzzling things about todays political environment is the reportedly high approval level he still enjoys among Republicans. But a new study from Cornell University shows that approval rating polls are misleading and the president is not nearly as popular as we have been led to believe.

Polls have shown that nearly 90 percent of Republicans approve of how Trump is handling his job as president and that a majority of Republicans approve of his handling of the Helsinki summit. These numbers are used to explain the reluctance of members of the GOP Congress to criticize him because they are worried about angering the presidents base of support.

Some GOP legislators have started criticizing the president, however, and they may now realize that Trumps support among voters in his own party is actually weaker than it seems and not nearly as firm as media coverage would lead us to believe.

The new study looked at all Republican voters but then differentiated between them based on the intensity of their support for Trump. Some very hardcore Republicans are extremely strong defenders of the president, but a greater number of Republicans are much more lukewarm in their support.

People with weaker support for the president also are less attached to the Republican party. And that may end up being a major problem for Republican congressional candidates in Novembers elections, especially those from moderate swing districts.

In the new study, Trumps approval rating was shown to be 85 percent among Republicans which is consistent with other polls. This number makes it seem that his support among Republicans is overwhelming.

But things are not always what they seem.

The study divided Republicans into three groups:

those who say they identify strongly with the Republican Party; those who identify as Republicans but not strongly; and those who call themselves independents but say they lean toward the Republican Party.

These distinctions are typically not discussed in media coverage, but are important. The study shows that the STRENGTH of a voters identification with a party determines many of their political attitudes.

For example, among strong Republicans, Trumps overall approval rating is 93 percent. Of these, 78 percent strongly approve of the president. But the problem for the GOP is that there arent that many of these highly partisan voters. They represent just 18 percent of likely voters and less than half of the GOP voter base.

Trump is MUCH less popular among Republicans who dont identify strongly with their party. In this group Trumps overall approval rating is 72 percent but just 38 percent saying they strongly approve and 34 percent say they only somewhat approve of Trump.

The independent-leaning Republicans give Trump the same level of tepid support.

The concern for the GOP is that those who only somewhat approve of Trump and dont strongly identify with the Republican Party may be less inclined to vote for Republican congressional candidates this fall.

Their reservations about Trump may mean Republican voters will abandon their party and vote for Democrats in the autumn, in which case we will see a Blue Wave election. Clearly Republican congressional candidates cannot count on those who somewhat approve of Trump to turn out and cast ballots for them at election time.
MOUNT PLEASANT  Electric scooters were rebuffed in Charleston, so they came across the Cooper River.

They didnt last long.

Just four days after it showed up in the Lowcountry, the scooter-rental startup Bird has been turned away by two of the regions largest municipalities. But this time, its scooters are being locked away by the police.

Bird, which is headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif., has seen this before. It has roiled city governments from coast to coast by dropping scooters that zip up to 15 mph, even if there arent laws to regulate them. Some cities have threatened to impound them, and others have followed through.

Thats the case in the Charleston area.

The scooters first arrived Saturday on the Charleston peninsula and in West Ashley. By Monday, city officials had told the company to take them out, threatening to lock them away under an ordinance that bans most "unregulated" vehicles downtown. Bird complied, and the scooters disappeared.

But on Tuesday, Bird re-emerged across the Cooper, parking dozens of scooters along Coleman Boulevard and U.S. Highway 17. Mount Pleasant police set out to take them away.

By midday, a pair of officers driving along Coleman had filled a pickup truck with scooters, stopping in the median to grab a few parked on the sidewalk. They were hauled to town hall, where dozens of scooters were locked away.

Across the river, Charleston accused the startup of pushing forward with its plans after city staffers said electric scooter rentals were illegal in the city. It was also chided for not securing a business license.

Bird said it complied with the shutdown order in Charleston voluntarily, and it said it would talk to the city about legalizing the business.

The scooters are rented via smartphone and picked up wherever they were left last.

Its not clear that it had similar conversations with Mount Pleasant, which is South Carolinas fourth-largest city.

Mount Pleasants mayor, Will Haynie, and its administrator, Eric DeMoura, couldnt be reached for comment Tuesday about their plans for the scooters.

In a statement, Bird said it took "appropriate measures" to operate as a business in Mount Pleasant, and it said it had been "working cooperatively with city officials."

The rise of electric scooters has been swift nationwide. They have spread city by city at the hands of a few well-financed startups that see lightweight scooters as the answer to cities transportation woes.

Bird, for instance, has suggested that scooters could be a way to get around when the destination isnt far away but its uncomfortable to walk. It has suggested theyre ideal for trips that are "too long to walk, but too short to drive."

Even so, cities have raised issues with how the scooters are stored because the companies dont keep stations and let riders park them anywhere. Theyve also generated safety concerns because they move relatively quickly.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Locally heavy thunderstorms during the evening will give way to partly cloudy skies after midnight. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Low 61F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Locally heavy thunderstorms during the evening will give way to partly cloudy skies after midnight. Potential for severe thunderstorms. Low 61F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%.
Last night I attended the forum of DFL Fifth District congressional candidates at Temple Beth El in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. The forum was sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council and a variety of left-wing outfits with Jewish in their name although leftism is their religion (e.g., the National Council of Jewish Women). Maya Rao covered the forum for the Star Tribune in DFLers tout experience at heavily attended Fifth District forum. I sat next to KSTPs Beth McDonough, who covered the event from the scene in the hit embedded below. KSTP has posted the video and a brief story here.

My friend Steve Hunegs is executive director of the JCRC. Steve has taken some heat from Republican sources for hosting this event. The winner of the primary will go on to win the election and represent the Fifth District for as long as she wants. It was important for these voters to see the candidates and hear them out themselves. I think the JCRC performed a service helping organize and put on this event. It was a first-class operation and informative event. All involved with putting it on have a right to be proud. I offer only a few observations for interested readers.

 The event was attended like a high holiday service. There must have been 1,000 people in the audience. The large sanctuary was filled to capacity. The space behind the regular sanctuary was opened and two-thirds filled. The place was packed. I wrote a friend that it was packed like Rosh Hashanah. He wrote me back: The Rosh Hashanah service will never be that packed.

 I sat with the media near the entrance to the sanctuary and saw many friends and acquaintances in attendance. My vague impression was that the audience was no more than one-third Jewish Democrats. The rest seemed to me much like the Fifth District DFL activists whom I saw at the special endorsing convention in south Minneapolis on June 17.

 This is the race to succeed former Nation of Islam hustler Keith Ellison in Congress. Ellison declared his candidacy for Minnesota Attorney General in such a manner as to ease the path for the the party to endorse state representative Ilhan Omar at the special endorsing convention. With the set-up for Omar, Margaret Anderson Kelliher  Omars most formidable opponent  skipped the convention. I wrote up my analysis of the race the day after the convention in the Weekly Standard article The anti-Israel seat and went back for a second look in the City Journal column A question for Democrats.

 I think attendance last night was driven by the anti-Trump fervor that is roiling Democrats across the United States. The serious candidates all played to it incessantly.

 Mary Lahammer of the Twin Cities PBS station moderated the debate and cracked the whip to keep the candidates answers to her questions brief and to the point. Only two of the seven questions she asked bore on Jewish issues.

 Ilhan Omar is the endorsed DFL candidate in this race. She is the favorite to win the primary next Tuesday.

 The other serious contenders in the race are state senator Patricia Torres Ray and Margaret Anderson Kelliher. I liked both Senator Ray and Ms. Kelliher, but Ray pales by contrast to Kelliher. Indeed, by contrast, Omar came off poorly. Kelliher served in the state legislature for 12 years, four of them as Speaker of the House and the nemesis of Governor Tim Pawlenty. She is a formidable candidate and a total pro. In my judgment and that of everyone I spoke with, Kelliher won the event last night going away.

 The laziness and stupidity of the press covering (and not covering) the race are a great advantage to Omar. She is a problematic candidate and vacuous leftist who draws on a bottomless well of political cliches to express the animus that drives the left on every issue. By contrast with Kelliher, Omars vacuity was prominently on display last night.

 There was no substantial difference on the issues among the three serious candidates. Raos Star Tribune article rightly focuses on the question of experience for the position, on which one could see daylight between and among the candidates. On Israel, all three expressed support for the right of Israel to exist, support for a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinian Arabs and opposition to the anti-Israel divestment movement.

 Someone has gotten to Omar. Her frank Islamist antipathy to Israel as an apartheid regime and her support for BDS were nowhere in evidence last night.

 I hung around after the event. As Omar shook hands and chatted with supporters in front of the media table at which I sat, I moved around to snap the photo on the right. I snapped the photo just before I introduced myself to her. She kept smiling as she told me, You made me famous. I wanted to send you flowers. I said I thought MSNBC deserved the credit.
On Sunday, I exposed as fake news a New York Times article touting President Trumps admission that the purpose of his sons meeting with a Russian lawyer was to obtain negative information about Hillary Clinton. In fact, Trumps statement wasnt news at all. He said the same thing more than a year ago.

Moreover, the Times, misstated Trumps admission. It characterized his statement as an admission that the meeting focused on Clinton dirt. This enabled the Times to claim that Trump was contradicting previous statements by his team that the focus was on adoptions of Russian babies.

The Times thus knowingly conflated the meetings purpose with its focus. The purpose, for Team Trump, was to come up with dirt. The focus  what was discussed at the meeting  was different by all accounts because the Russian lawyer talked about adoptions, not Hillary.

When I wrote my post, I didnt realize, but should have suspected, that the New York Times fake news story was only the tip of the mainstream media iceberg. Nearly every major anti-Trump media outlet  which is to say nearly every major media outlet  was pushing the same false line.

In addition to the Times, the dishonor role includes, inevitably, the Washington Post, the Associated Press, the BBC, CNBC, and CNNs Chris Cillizza. It also includes The Atlantics David Frum, who must have known better. It would be difficult to find a mainstream media outlet that wasnt part of the herd.

But there was more than herd mentality at work here. There was an enormous amount of frustration.

The anti-Trump media is fully invested in the Russia collusion story. I can hardly fathom the amount of psychic energy it has poured into this story.

Yet, after almost two years, the hole remains virtually dry. All its proponents have is the Trump Tower meeting. But it came to light more than a year ago and has produced barely a sip.

The Trump-haters have high hopes for Robert Muellers investigation. But his team is busy trying Paul Manafort on charges that dont relate to Donald Trump or the 2016 election. Mueller certainly has other irons in the fire, but the Trump-haters dont know with specificity what they are or what they have produced. And all of the publics Mueller-related attention is on the Manafort trial now.

Thus, Trumps old news tweet on Sunday was manna from heaven for the Trump-hating media. Sure, some twisting and outright dishonesty were required to make it fit for consumption. But when has that ever been a problem for the the New York Times, the Washington Post, and the rest of the herd?

Its not surprising that the mainstream media, en masse, dishonestly treated Donald Trumps old news tweet about his sons Trump Tower meeting as a new admission inconsistent with past statements by members of his team. Sickening, yes. Surprising, no.
A court in Zimbabwe on Tuesday admitted 27 opposition supporters who were arrested by police on accusations of fomenting post-election violence to bail.

Magistrate Francis Vhitorini granted bail in the sum of 50 dollars to each of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) members.

The court has indicated that it did not consider any of them to be a flight risk.

The judgment was so brilliant that we are still trying to process it, MDC lawyer Denford Halimani said.

Violence erupted on August 1 after President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his ruling ZANU-PF party won a national election.

The MDC disputes the outcome and says the vote was rigged.

Six people were killed in an army clampdown on protests in scenes reminiscent of the long and heavy-handed rule of Robert Mugabe.

Mr Mnangagwa replaced Mugabe when he was toppled in 2017 in a de facto military coup.

Nelson Chamisa, Mr Mnangagwas main rival, is expected to mount a court challenge against the election result on Thurday.

The MDC has said security forces were abducting its members in night raids to intimidate the party and stop it challenging Mnangagwas win in the presidential vote.

Zimbabwes foreign minister denied those accusations, telling diplomats that if there was any evidence the military would investigate the cases.

The Criminal Investigations Department said in a statement police were looking for former finance minister and opposition figure Tendai Biti, MDC chairman Morgen Komichi and MDC youth leader Happymore Chidziva

linked to the August 1 violence.

Zimbabweans had hoped the vote would rid the country of its global pariah status and launch an economic recovery, but have watched an all too familiar pattern where the ruling party is declared the winner

and the opposition rejects the outcome.

Under the constitution, a losing presidential candidate has seven days from when a winner is declared to challenge the result at the Constitutional Court.

The Court must rule within 14 days.

Mnangagwas inauguration would have to wait for the outcome of a court challenge.

(Reuters/NAN)
President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana has relieved Minister for Energy, Boakye Agyarko, of his post with immediate effect, the presidency said.

According to the presidency, Mr Akufo-Addo has asked Mr Agyarko to hand over to John Amewu, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, who would act temporarily as Minister for Energy, until a substantive appointment

is made.

No reason was assigned for Mr Agyarkos sack.

However, local reports say his dismissal was linked to attempts by his ministry to amend portions of the controversial 510 million dollars power deal signed between Ghana and the UAE-based Africa and Middle East Resources Investment Group (AMERI) Energy in 2015 by the previous government.

The new agreement was to extend the current five-year deal with AMERI Energy which is currently operating a 300MW emergency power plant in Ghana to 15 years and bring on board a new company to manage the

plant for the period.

The government believes there was no value for money in the first agreement hence the Energy Ministrys decision to go for renegotiation which has created controversies after the deal was withdrawn from

parliament after Ghanaians raised concerns about the cost.

NAN reports that President Akufo-Addo appointed Mr Agyarko as minister of energy in January 2017.

(Xinhua/NAN)
Two Palestinians, belonging to Islamic Hamas movement, were killed on Tuesday by Israeli artillery fire in northern Gaza Strip, according to Hamass military wing, al-Qassam Brigades.

Qassam identified the two militants as Ahmed Murjan and Abdul Hafiz al-Selawy from the Jabaliya refugee camp in northern Gaza.

Meanwhile, security sources said that the Israeli army artillery targeted an observation point used by Qassam militants in northern Gaza Strip, killing two of the Brigades activists.

Israel has not commented on the attack yet.

However, Israeli media reported that an Israeli force came under fire near the borderline in northern Gaza.

The tension in Gaza has been high since the Palestinians launched massive anti-Israel rallies in March, known as the Great March of Return, which demanded the lift of the blockade Israel has imposed on Gaza since 2007.

About 158 Palestinians have been killed and more than 17,000 others injured by Israeli gunfire during the rallies, which take place every Friday.

There have been reports about talks between Palestinian factions, Egypt, the UN and Israel to reach a long-term truce in the besieged enclave.

A high-level delegation from Hamas has also arrived in Gaza Strip since on Thursday after talks with Egyptian officials.

(Xinhua/NAN)
A French-Algerian businessman on Tuesday offered to pay fines issued under Denmarks new ban on the use of full-face veils in public spaces, Danish media reported on Tuesday.

French-born businessman and activist Rachid Nekkaz told the Berlingske daily he was planning to visit Denmark next month to pay fines issued after the so-called burqa ban took effect in the country on August 1.

Mr Nekkaz said that although he personally opposed the niqab, he defended the right to wear a niqab as well as the right not to wear a hijab, he said in an email to the daily.

The niqab is a full-face veil with an opening for the eyes, whereas the hijab is a headscarf that is not covered by the Danish ban.

Mr Nekkaz has already paid fines in other European countries, including France and Belgium, which have introduced similar restrictions on wearing full-face veils in public spaces.

The first Danish fine was issued on Friday when a 28-year-old woman was fined 1,000 kroner (156 dollars) for wearing a niqab at a shopping mall in the town of Horsholm, just north of Copenhagen.

Those who repeatedly defy the ban face a higher fine.

Martin Henriksen of the populist Danish Peoples Party, which has long pushed for a ban, said that if Mr Nekkaz pays the fine, the sum should be considered as income and the woman who has been fined should be taxed accordingly, news agency Ritzau reported.

He added that the government should also consider introducing a prison sentence of up to 14-days for repeat offenders.

(dpa/NAN)
Amsterdam is taking emergency measures to handle the strains of mass tourism, the City announced on Tuesday.

These measures will allow authorities to go after even minor infractions and collect fines immediately.

In the red-light district, the city will impose a sweep break on especially busy evenings and close off streets for cleaning on short notice.

The city is also considering closing off streets that become too crowded.

Mayor Femke Halsema undertook the measures after an alarming ombudsman report detailed the growth in mass tourism.

The report warned that the city is becoming a `jungle, especially at night, when police and local authorities felt powerless to do anything.

Under the new regulations, authorities will get a special chip-card reader to take fines, effectively putting a high price on bad behaviour.

Public consumption of alcohol will earn $110; public urination, public disorderliness and littering will each draw a fine of 140 euros.

Amsterdam, which has a local population of around 800,000, will expect 18 million visitors this year.

(dpa/NAN)
Three Russian TV journalists, killed in the Central African Republic in July while investigating the activities of a clandestine firm of Russian private military contractors, were laid to rest in Moscow on Tuesday.

Orhan Dzhemal, Alexander Rastorguyev and Kirill Radchenko were killed about 200 kilometres (125 miles) northeast of the volatile African states capital Bangui, according to local officials.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said the three men were killed during a robbery.

But colleagues of the dead journalists have launched an investigation into their murders, the circumstances of which they say remain unclear.

We have been orphaned, documentary maker, Pavel Kostomarov, told a group of mourners, many in tears, outside a church in central Moscow following a wake for filmmaker Rastorguyev.

Some of the mourners held the dead journalists portrait.

Outside a mosque in northern Moscow, the son of slain journalist Orhan Dzhemal addressed hundreds, who had come to pay their respects.

People like him are rare. If there were just a few more people like him, the world would be a much better place, Mansour, Dzhemals young son, said.

His whole life was a heroic act, a fight for justice and against oppression, fellow journalist, Maksim Shevchenko, told mourners, who had carried Dzhemals casket into the mosque.

He always came to the aid of the weak, he was always on the side of those, who were threatened with danger, said Shevchenko.

Radchenko was laid to rest in a closed ceremony, the Ekho Moskvy radio station reported.

The three men were on assignment for TsUR, an online news organisation, funded by anti-Kremlin campaigner and former oil tycoon, Mikhail Khodorkovsky.

Their trip was fraught with issues from the start.

They were forced to change their plans at the last minute, they struggled to communicate with their driver and had inconsistent contact with their fixer.

The Central African Republic has been ravaged by violence, with most of the country beyond the control of its central government.

Russian officials said journalists were sent on the mission with inadequate planning for such a dangerous environment.

Khodorkovsky said the journalists were experienced war correspondents, who made their own decisions about security and were given the resources they asked for.

(Reuters/NAN)
Governor Samuel Ortom has condemned todays development at the National Assembly, charging Nigerians to reject impunity.

I condemn police invasion of the National Assembly and urge patriotic Nigerians to reject this impunity which is an assault on our democracy. We cannot afford to remain the laughing stock of the world, Mr Ortom said in a statement by his spokesperson Terver Akase.

Mr Ortom himself recently escaped an attempt to remove him from office, after eight lawmakers took over the House of Assembly in Makurdi and served him impeachment notice. The action was condemned by many, including Mr Buhari.

The governor insists that the action of the security operatives has made the country a laughing stock and is capable of degenerating into lawlessness.

He says there are rules and procedures as well as constitutional provisions that govern the conduct of the business of the National Assembly.

Governor Ortom says a similar breach of democratic norms is also happening in the Benue State House of Assembly, and stresses that if it is tolerated at the highest level, the impunity would spread across the country.

He wonders why the federal government sees nothing wrong with those defecting from the PDP to the APC but is allegedly bent on persecuting those leaving the ruling party.

The governor describes the action of the security agencies as an infringement on the fundamental right of freedom of association of Nigerians, which must be resisted.

He notes that the presidency denied any role in the Benue saga but did not follow up with any sanctions for those responsible, making the denial suspect.

In his reaction, the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, urged Nigerians to rise up against the growing dictatorship of the APC federal government.

Mr Wike on Tuesday declared that the assault on the National Assembly by security forces is condemnable and has the capacity to truncate the nations democracy.

He said: All well meaning Nigerians should stand up against this dictatorship. All over the world this has never happened.

Nigerians should not stand aloof and watch what is going on. This will consume so many people if we dont rise against it.

Mr Wike called on National Assembly members to stand firm in defence of the nations democracy.

All members of the National Assembly should resist that anti-democratic attempt and stand-up to defend our democracy .

The governor berated his colleagues who are happy with the anti-democratic plots of the APC federal government.

Those governors happy with what is happening today should know that it will be their turn tomorrow. The same cabal will turn against these governors.

This is condemnable and unacceptable to us. You must follow setdown rules.

You cannot talk about fighting corruption and refuse to respect the rule of law.
A regional training programme to empower officials from West African nations with skills in project appraisal and economic management commenced in Abuja on Monday.

The programme, organised by the West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management (WAIFEM), has 35 participants from financial institutions across English speaking West African countries including Ghana, Gambia, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone and will last for a week.

Okon Umoh, a senior programme manager, who represented the Director-General of WAIFEM, Akpan Ekpo, explained the importance of the event.

A project as an investment activity upon which resources-costs-are expended to create capital assets that will produce benefits over an extended period of time must logically lend itself to planning, financing and implementation. However it is difficult to accurately estimate the quantum of resources required for a project because of uncertainty of happenings in the future. So also are the benefits that are likely to accrue as a fallout of a project.

Project appraisal assists in ensuring that projects are properly managed through the application of adequate financial and monitoring systems, provision of contingency plans to deal with risky developments, and the provision of guideposts for the evaluation of progress. Project appraisal is, therefore, central to the effective management of projects. Project appraisal refers to the process of assessing in a structured way, the case for proceeding with a project.

It is a systematic and comprehensive review of economic, environmental, financial, social, technical and other aspects of a project to determine if it is feasible to undertake. It often involves comparing various options, using economic appraisal or some other decision analysis technique, he said.

In an interview with PREMIUM TIMES after the opening ceremony, Mr Okon said WAIFEM has trained over 16,000 participants since its inception and that this training hopes to enhance macroeconomic management, financial sector management, and debt management.

This course is run under the macroeconomic management department of WAIFEM and our focus is to enhance participants understanding on knowledge in project appraisal to enable them have the skills to manage their economies better, he said.
Mask-wearing officers of the State Security Services have thrown a cordon over the National Assembly, in what some lawmakers say is aimed at aiding the removal from office of the Senate president, Bukola Saraki.

Deputy senate president Ike Ekweremadu, is also being targeted, PREMIUM TIMES understands.

The leader of the SSS team at the National Assembly entrance, said the siege was an order from above.

We need more guns, send us more guns, the officer, who wore no name tag, was heard shouting openly as National Assembly staff and journalists at the gate watched.

As early as 7 a.m. Tuesday morning, the main entrance of the building was blocked by the security operatives.

Staff of the assembly have been denied entrance into the premises by security personnel in black and blue uniforms.

PREMIUM TIMES also observed one of the senators, Rafiu Ibrahim, making frantic calls while standing at the entrance.

It is unclear whether he was denied access or not.

Mr Ibrahim is a pro-Saraki senator from Kwara state.

It is also not immediately clear whether some senators had already entered the chamber.

A police officer who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES, denied knowledge of the situation.

I dont know what is happening. Im seeing it just like you and Im surprised,  he said.

As at the time of filing this report, more policemen are arriving the National Assembly.

Some lawmakers had in past few days insisted Mr Saraki, stepped down from his position having defected from the majority party.

Rivers Rep, Boma Goodhead, dares DSS The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the DSS The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the SSS The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the DSS The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the DSS The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the DSS


An internet imagery.

BEIJING (PTI): China announced that it has successfully tested its first hypersonic aircraft which could carry nuclear warheads and penetrate any current generation anti-missile defence systems, seen as a breakthrough in developing cutting-edge weapons.



The Xingkong-2 or Starry Sky-2, was launched in a target range located in Northwest China on Friday last, the state-run China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics (CAAA) said in a statement on Monday.



The United States and Russia have been carrying out similar experiments.



Launched by a multi-stage rocket, China's waverider was released in the air after about 10 minutes. It flew independently, made large-angle turning maneuvers, and landed in the targeted area as planned, the statement said.



The flight vehicle reached 30 kms in altitude at Mach 5.5-6, the statement quoted by the official media said.



The hypersonic aircraft was designed by the CAAA in collaboration with the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation.



Waverider is a flight vehicle that flies in the atmosphere and uses shockwaves generated by its own hypersonic flight with the air to glide at high speed, Song Zhongping, a military expert told state-run Global Times.



Various parameters were proved and the flight vehicle was fully recovered, which marks the successful launch of Xingkong-2 and the first flight of a Chinese waverider, the statement said.



"Announcing the successful test to the public indicates that China must have already made a technological breakthrough with the weapon," Song said.



The waverider is expected to be tested more frequently in future before being handed over for deployment to the People's Liberation Army, he said.



The current generation of anti-missile defence systems is mainly designed to intercept cruise and ballistic missiles, which are either slower or easier to predict, making them possible to intercept, he said.



But the trajectory of a waverider is relatively unpredictable in the glide and it flies so fast that it poses an extreme challenge to current anti-missile defense systems, Song said.



Any rocket has the potential of launching a waverider, and the waverider can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads, Song said.



"The test showed that China is advancing shoulder-to-shoulder with the US and Russia," Song said.



In addition to its military use, the hypersonic flight vehicle may also see civil use in the future, an unnamed military expert, told the Global Times.



"If the hypersonic technology matures, it may see other applications including industrial transport," the expert said.



China whose defence budget this year amounted to USD 175 billion is investing heavily in defence research and development to catch-up with US, Russia and European Union.


Some senators who were denied entrance into the National Assembly Tuesday morning have reacted to the development.

The main National Assembly entrance has been locked by officers of the State Security Services in an apparent move to oust the senate president, Bukola Saraki.

Rafiu Ibrahim, a senator from Kwara state, was first to arrive among the senators.

We got here this morning to go into our office as usual; I work very early. During recess we do committee works and our own writings. Im writing a book, so I go in there almost every day, he said.

We got here and DSS has taken over all the gates, all entrances to the National Assembly and they said its order from above. We asked them why, they said there is no reason. As it is today, it means Nigeria is under siege.

Ben Murray-Bruce, PDP-Bayelsa, also condemned the situation.

It has come to out attention that our colleagues cannot go to work after we adjourned for recess.

I have contacted the UK and US Embassy to revoke the visa of Senator Akpabio or anybody leading this assault on this institution. We will ask them to revoke the visas of their wives and that of their children. They will not be allowed to leave Nigeria to travel to any nation in western Europe and North America, he said.

Minority Leader Godswill Akpabio is expected to defect from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress.

His move has left many surprised as it came at a time many senators were leaving the APC for the PDP.

Mr Akpabio has been mentioned amongst those interested in the position of senate president if Mr Saraki is removed.

More senators and members of the House of Representatives are arriving.
The National Assembly was in the early hours of Tuesday cordoned off by officers of the State Security Services in an alleged move by some senators to remove the Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

The officers. who said their actions are order from above initially denied lawmakers entrance into the National Assembly.

The lawmakers were later allowed to enter the chamber.

For days, speculation have been on, on the appropriateness of Mr Saraki as Senate President, having defected from the ruling APC to the PDP.

Some APC senators are of the opinion that Mr Saraki should resign his position on the argument that the Senate should be presided over by a lawmaker from majority party. The APC is still believed to have a slight majority in the Senate.

However, PDP senators and others loyal to Mr Saraki vowed to resist any attempt to remove him.

Follow our live updates bellow

At 8.28a.m., Atai Aidoko Ali, a Kogi East senator arrived at the National Assembly premises and he was allowed to enter.

8.40a.m., No news of happenings in the Senate chamber yet as journalists and staff of the assembly are still locked out.

8.46a.m., Edo South senator, Matthew Uroghide, arrived National Assembly. He was allowed in.

Earlier, the leader of the masked SSS team at the National Assembly entrance said the siege was an order from above.

We need more guns, send us more guns, the officer, who wore no name tag, was heard shouting openly as National Assembly staff and journalists at the gate watched.

As early as 7 a.m. Tuesday morning, the main entrance of the building was blocked by the security operatives.

A police officer who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES, said he had no details about the situation.

I dont know what is happening. Im seeing it just like you and Im surprised,  he said.

Rivers Rep, Boma Goodhead, dares DSS Rivers Rep, Boma Goodhead, dares DSS The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the DSS The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the SSS The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the DSS The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the DSS The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the DSS

At 9:00 a.m., more senators and House of Representatives members are entering the National Assembly.

Senators Philip Aruwa Gyunka and Bassey Akpan arrived and entered the National Assembly.

A source told PREMIUM TIMES APC senators are entering the National Assembly through the back gate where a list has been submitted to security operatives. That has not been independently.

Some senators earlier spoke on on the siege by the masked operatives on the National Assembly. They spoke at the time they were not yet allowed into the chamber.

We got here this morning to go into our office as usual; I work very early. During recess we do committee works and our own writings. Im writing a book, so I go in there almost every day, Rafiu Ibrahim, a senator from Kwara State said.

We got here and DSS has taken over all the gates, all entrances to the National Assembly and they said its order from above. We asked them why, they said there is no reason. As it is today, it means Nigeria is under siege.

Ben Murray-Bruce, PDP-Bayelsa, also condemned the situation.

It has come to out attention that our colleagues cannot go to work after we adjourned for recess.

I have contacted the UK and US Embassy to revoke the visa of Senator Akpabio or anybody leading this assault on this institution. We will ask them to revoke the visas of their wives and that of their children. They will not be allowed to leave Nigeria to travel to any nation in western Europe and North America, he said.

Both senators, like others, were late allowed into the Senate.

After about an hour inside, Ben Murray-Bruce came out to address journalists.

He said the chamber is still locked because National Assembly staff are denied entrance.

He added that only PDP Senators are inside the Senate chamber thus confirming that APC senators are yet to converge at the chamber.

Some senators earlier spoke on on the siege by the masked operatives on the National Assembly. They spoke at the time they were not yet allowed into the chamber.

We got here this morning to go into our office as usual; I work very early. During recess we do committee works and our own writings. Im writing a book, so I go in there almost every day, Rafiu Ibrahim, a senator from Kwara State said.

We got here and DSS has taken over all the gates, all entrances to the National Assembly and they said its order from above. We asked them why, they said there is no reason. As it is today, it means Nigeria is under siege.

Ben Murray-Bruce, PDP-Bayelsa, also condemned the situation.

It has come to out attention that our colleagues cannot go to work after we adjourned for recess.

I have contacted the UK and US Embassy to revoke the visa of Senator Akpabio or anybody leading this assault on this institution. We will ask them to revoke the visas of their wives and that of their children. They will not be allowed to leave Nigeria to travel to any nation in western Europe and North America, he said.

Both senators, like others, were late allowed into the Senate.

9.31a.m., Suleiman Nafiz, one of the senators that left APC for PDP, entered the National Assembly.

9.34a.m., Senator Forster Ogola joined his other colleagues in the assembly. Mr Ogola parades a fake Ph. D certificate as revealed in a joint investigation by PREMIUM TIMES and other Nigerian media.

9:45

Lawmakers stranded at the National Assembly lobby during the NASS shutdown by DSS

An aide to Senate President Bukola Saraki alleges that anti-Saraki senators are currently meeting at Sheraton hotel.

The senators loyal to the government are now convening in Sheraton Hotel where the illegal impeachment exercise will be commencing. You can quote me on this, Olu Onemola said.

Bauchi senator, Isa Misau, came out to address journalists some moments ago.

He said he does not know the whereabouts of APC senators.

There is a rumour that 30 of them want to perpetrate the evil act (remove Saraki).

He vowed he and his colleagues would not allow the plan to hatch.

He emphasised that any decision taken by APC lawmakers will be null and void.

The clerk of the National Assembly, Mohammed Sani-Omolori, could not enter the assembly Tuesday Morning.

Mr Sani-Omolori retreated at the National Assembly gate after a moment conversation with officials of the State Security Service

It is not clear whether the officers outrightly denied him entrance or he decided to turn back on his own.

Mr Sani-Omolori however told journalists he would not have entered even if he was granted access as many of his staff are stranded outside.

Hes (DSS officer) telling me they have security issues. I dont know why this is.

Even if I enter, how will I work without my staff? he questioned.

The clerk left in his Peugeot vehicle thereafter.

Officials of the SSS in the early hours of Tuesday blocked the entrance of the National Assembly.

Some lawmakers were later allowed in by the security operative while journalists and other staff were still barred.

A video has emerged showing SSS operatives carrying arms inside the National Assembly rotunda, moments after lawmakers were finally allowed entry into the parliament.

The video was taken by the lawmakers who were inside and circulated on social media. Most of the details coming out of the premises are being sent out by lawmakers as journalists and other non-members of the parliament are denied access.

The video also captured a warning sign that prohibited carrying of arms into the building, including by security agents.

8:30AM. Honorable Boma and some others have made it inside. Firearms are normally not allowed in NASS. This is the norm all over the world. pic.twitter.com/vM9ueICIFt  Ayobami Ayobami (@dondekojo) August 7, 2018

No statement has come from either the president or the acting-president, despite repeated efforts by PREMIUM TIMES. The president is away from the country, but his two spokespersons, Garba Shehu and Femi Adesina, are typically available to comment on urgent national issues.

Laolu Akande, a spokesperson for Mr Osinbajo who has been acting as president since Mr Buhari departed for London last week, has declined comments to PREMIUM TIMES about what is going on at the National Assembly.

The SSS is directly under the control of the president. The agency has not named a spokesperson since September 2015, but officials like Mr Shehu regularly defends the agencys actions.

Lai Mohammed, the information minister who is also known to defend the SSS, did not return PREMIUM TIMES requests for the governments position on security agencies action today.

While the government has not spoken about todays development, which is an escalation of bitter confrontation between mostly-PDP lawmakers and the executive in recent weeks, it distanced itself from what transpired in the past.

The president said he would never condone any repressive actions by security agencies, much less sanction such. He also regularly reinstates his commitments to the rule of law and respect for separation of powers.

Based on the claim by Olu Onemola, aide to Senate President Bukola Saraki, PREMIUM TIMES visited the Sheraton Hotel Abuja to see if a meeting of APC senators was ongoing there. No such evidence was found.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yusuf Lasun, just arrived the National Assembly. He was allowed to go in with his convoy.

A member of the House of Representatives, Johnson Agbonayinma (Edo, APC) who just came out of the Assembly told journalists the SSS siege was a plan by the PDP members to sideline the APC in taking decisions.

More photos:

Protesters gathered at the entrance National Assembly during th DSS shutdown Senator Isa Misau speaking to newsmen during the National Assembly DSS shutdown Senator Isa Misau

Benue, Rivers Governors condemn SSS siege on NASS

Governor Samuel Ortom has condemned todays development at the National Assembly, charging Nigerians to reject impunity.

I condemn police invasion of the National Assembly and urge patriotic Nigerians to reject this impunity which is an assault on our democracy. We cannot afford to remain the laughing stock of the world, Mr Ortom said in a statement by his spokesperson Terver Akase.

Mr Ortom himself recently escaped an attempt to remove him from office, after eight lawmakers took over the House of Assembly in Makurdi and served him impeachment notice. The action was condemned by many, including Mr Buhari.

The governor insists that the action of the security operatives has made the country a laughing stock and is capable of degenerating into lawlessness.

He says there are rules and procedures as well as constitutional provisions that govern the conduct of the business of the National Assembly.

Governor Ortom says a similar breach of democratic norms is also happening in the Benue State House of Assembly, and stresses that if it is tolerated at the highest level, the impunity would spread across the country.

He wonders why the federal government sees nothing wrong with those defecting from the PDP to the APC but is allegedly bent on persecuting those leaving the ruling party.

The governor describes the action of the security agencies as an infringement on the fundamental right of freedom of association of Nigerians, which must be resisted.

He notes that the presidency denied any role in the Benue saga but did not follow up with any sanctions for those responsible, making the denial suspect.

In his reaction, the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, urged Nigerians to rise up against the growing dictatorship of the APC federal government.

Mr Wike on Tuesday declared that the assault on the National Assembly by security forces is condemnable and has the capacity to truncate the nations democracy.

He said: All well meaning Nigerians should stand up against this dictatorship. All over the world this has never happened.

Nigerians should not stand aloof and watch what is going on. This will consume so many people if we dont rise against it.

Mr Wike called on National Assembly members to stand firm in defence of the nations democracy.

All members of the National Assembly should resist that anti-democratic attempt and stand-up to defend our democracy .

The governor berated his colleagues who are happy with the anti-democratic plots of the APC federal government.

Those governors happy with what is happening today should know that it will be their turn tomorrow. The same cabal will turn against these governors.

This is condemnable and unacceptable to us. You must follow setdown rules.

You cannot talk about fighting corruption and refuse to respect the rule of law.

As at 1:05 p.m., lawmakers allowed in are still inside the National Assembly. No legislative functions have, however, started as staff members are prevented from entering into the premises.

At 1.00 p.m., INEC chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, arrived the National Assembly ahead of his planned meeting with leadership of the two houses.

PREMIUM TIMES on Monday reported that the INEC boss will meeting with the lawmakers to discuss the 2019 election supplementary budget.

The whereabouts of Senate President Bukola Saraki and his deputy Ike Ekweremadu, is yet to be ascertained.

Speaker Yakubu Dogara is also believed not to be in NASS.

Mr Sarakis aides could not confirm his whereabouts.

None of the three passed through the main entrance of the National Assembly since 7a.m. when PREMIUM TIMES reporters arrived to observe the siege.

Mr Ekweremadus aide, Uche Anichukwu, confirmed his boss is not in the National Assembly.

Lawmakers who came out to speak after being granted access also said that majority of those inside are PDP lawmakers.

2.05p.m., officials of the State Security Service still man the National Assembly entrance.

Meanwhile, many journalists, activists and National Assembly staff have retreated. They moved further say from the National Assembly gate while some left.

OSINBAJO SACKS SSS DG DAURA

The Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, has directed the termination of the appointment of the Director General, State Security Service, Lawal Daura, with immediate effect, the presidency has said.

Mr. Daura has been directed to hand over to the most senior officer of the State Security Service until further notice, Laolu Akande, Mr Osinbajos spokesperson said in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES.

Mr Akande also shared the statement on his Twitter handle.

The sack is believed to be related to Mr Dauras role in the siege on the National Assembly on Tuesday.

2.40p.m., Some senators have started emerging from the National Assembly after what they described as a failed attempt to remove the Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

Dino Melaye vowed PDP senators will continue their vigilance until their APC colleagues back down on the plan.

He described Mr Dauras sack as attempt to salvage the failed integrity of Mr Buharis government.

Ben Murray-Bruce and Forster Ogola also left the National Assembly.
The Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom state, Moses Ekpo, has denied media reports that he has resigned or plans to resign from office.

There have been reports of several officials resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Akwa Ibom state government, following the planned defection of a senator, Godwill Akpabio, from the opposition PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Some officials, like the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, Onofiok Luke, the senator representing Uyo Senatorial District, Bassey Albert, and some legislators have refuted such reports as fake.

Mr Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom, has just resigned his position as the Senate minority leader, thereby paving the way for his defection to the APC.

Mr Akpabio, regarded as one of the most influential politicians in Akwa Ibom and Nigerias South-South region, handpicked Udom Emmanuel, and helped him and Mr Ekpo win election as governor and deputy governor respectively in 2015.

The deputy governor is Mr Akpabios kinsman.

The deputy governors media aide, Ekikere Umoh, issued a statement on Monday dismissing the report of his principals resignation as lies.

Mr Umoh said the deputy governor spoke on phone from New York, United States, where he is representing Governor Emmanuel at an international convention of a socio-cultural organisation called the Ati Annang.

I have not resigned, the statement quoted Mr Ekpo to have said.

I have no reason whatsoever to resign or jump ship from a government that is both responsive and performing optimally, while giving practical meaning to democratic dividends for the people of Akwa Ibom.

I cannot, and will not jump ship, the deputy governor said.

Mr Ekpo called on the Akwa Ibom people at home and in the Diaspora to support the PDP and Governor Emmanuel to take the state to the next level.

The state government had said earlier on, through the Commissioner for Information, Charles Udoh, that the report of Mr Ekpos resignation was false.
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo on Tuesday summoned the Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, and the Director-General of the State Security Service, Lawal Daura, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the News Agency of Nigeria reports.

The News Agency of Nigeria gathered that the two security chiefs, who arrived Aso Rock at different times, were to update the acting president on security developments including the blockade of the National Assembly by security officials.

President Muhammadu Buhari is currently on vacation in London.

Mr Idris was the first to arrive at about 12.35 p.m. before the arrival of Mr Daura at about 1.15 p.m.

The police and operatives of the SSS early on Tuesday, blocked the main gate of the National Assembly, preventing lawmakers and staff from gaining access into the complex.

The security operatives, however, later allowed the lawmakers access into the complex while journalists and other staff were barred.

The siege has been condemned by most Nigerians and leaders of the main opposition party, PDP.

The security siege is believed to have been put in place to allow for the forceful removal of Senate President Bukola Saraki from office.

Mr Saraki recently defected from Nigerias ruling APC to the PDP.

Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo

The APC has asked him to resign saying it still controls majority in the Senate. Mr Saraki has, however, indicated that he would not resign as he believes he still enjoys the support of majority senators including some of the APC.
The Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, has directed the termination of the appointment of the Director General, State Security Service, Lawal Daura, with immediate effect, the presidency has said.

Mr. Daura has been directed to hand over to the most senior officer of the State Security Service until further notice, Laolu Akande, Mr Osinbajos spokesperson said in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES.

Mr Akande also shared the statement on his Twitter handle.

The sack is believed to be related to Mr Dauras role in the siege on the National Assembly on Tuesday.

HOW HE WAS APPOINTED

Mr. Daura had retired from the service before he was recalled on July 2, 2015 by President Muhammadu Buhari to head the organisation.

Mr. Daura, 65, who was born in Daura, Katsina State on August 5, 1953, retired from the SSS in 2013, having reached the statutory retirement age of 60.

President Buhari is also from Daura in Katsina state.

He had joined the service in 1982 and was a one-time deputy director, Presidential Communication, Command and Control Center at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He also served as state director at various times in many states of the Federation including Kano, Sokoto, Edo, Lagos, Osun and Imo.

But instead of appointing a new director general from some of the highly qualified officers of the organisation, the President rather went for his kinsman, Mr. Daura, in a move many commentators described as nepotism.

Mr. Daura attended Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, from 1977  1980.

He attended various professional courses both home and abroad including the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, (NIPSS) Kuru.

Mr. Daura was the sixth director general of the SSS, one of the three security agencies created out of the defunct National Security Organisation in 1986.

He succeeded Ita Ekpenyong, who was appointed DG of the agency on September 8, 2010.

He would be remembered for turning the secret police into an organisation that became notorious for illegal arrests and detention of citizens, abuse of court orders, deep partisanship and human rights abuses.

A BLOCKADE AND A SACK

Before the sack was announced by his aide, Mr Osinbajo summoned the Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, and Mr Daura, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria gathered that the two security chiefs, who arrived Aso Rock at different times, were to update the acting president on security developments including the blockade of the National Assembly by security officials.

President Muhammadu Buhari is currently on vacation in London.

Mr Idris was the first to arrive at about 12.35 p.m. before the arrival of Mr Daura at about 1.15 p.m.

The police and operatives of the SSS early on Tuesday, blocked the main gate of the National Assembly, preventing lawmakers and staff from gaining access into the complex.

The security operatives, however, later allowed the lawmakers access into the complex while journalists and other staff were barred.

The siege has been condemned by most Nigerians and leaders of the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The security siege is believed to have been put in place to allow for the forceful removal of the President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, from office.

Mr Saraki recently defected from Nigerias ruling APC to the PDP.

The siege at the National Assembly by security operatives from the DSS

The APC has asked him to resign saying it still controls majority in the Senate. Mr Saraki has, however, indicated that he would not resign as he believes he still enjoys the support of majority senators including some of the APC.
The British High Commission has reacted to Tuesdays development at the National Assembly, saying it would only accept a democratic process that recognises the rights of Nigerians to participate in election process.

We are aware of media reports of a situation at the National Assembly this morning. We are closely monitoring the situation and other political developments in Nigeria.

The United Kingdom supports a process whereby the people of Nigeria can exercise their democratic right to vote and be voted for. We favour a free, fair, credible and peaceful process and the independence of institutions, which allow for that, Joe Abuku, a spokesperson for the UK Embassy in Abuja, said in a statement to PREMIUM TIMES Tuesday afternoon.

The statement comes hours after Ben Murray-Bruce, a senator from Bayelsa State, asked that foreign sanctions be meted on those involved in the siege at the parliament.

Mr Murray-Bruce accused senior officials of the Buhari administration of being involved in the blockading of the National Assembly by masked officials of the State Security Service, saying he would help ensure that their visas and those of their families are revoked by Western countries.

The National Assembly was taken over by SSS operatives, supported by the police, earlier Tuesday, amidst claims that there was an attempt to forcibly remove Senate President Bukola Saraki from office.

Scores of senators and members of the House of Representatives were initially blocked from entering into the National Assembly premises, but all of them were later allowed to move in after threatening to force their way in.

The security operatives also blocked all other staff members of the National Assemnly, including the clerk of the parliament, as well as journalists and other independent observers of legislative process.

There was a protest by civil society groups to force the security agencies to back down, but they declined. All the lawmakers who entered the premises were unable to conduct much legislative process since the clerk and other staff members were unavailable.

The development has been widely condemned by opposition politicians, including Atiku Abubakar and several state governors, who warned against the use of security agents as repressive tools against an independent arm of government.

Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, who has been called on to act to check the excesses of security agencies, responded by summoning Lawal Daura, the head of SSS, and Inspector-General Ibrahim Idris.

Mr Daura was summarily dismissed and asked to hand over to the most-senior official behind him, a move that has sent ripples through the countrys political and security circles.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Ibrahim Idris, has said the Nigeria Police Force was not involved in the siege on the National Assembly (NASS) by security operatives.

Mr Idris absolved the police of any blame after a closed-door meeting with the Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He said the standoff at the NASS complex reached him as a surprise, adding that the police would soon issue a statement in relation to the impasse.

Obviously, like I said, I have not got a detailed brief on that. In fact we are going to issue a (press) release (on that), he said.

Mr Osinbajo had on Tuesday sacked the Director General of the State Security Service (SSS), Lawal Daura, with immediate effect, over Tuesdays invasion of the premises of the National Assembly by security operatives.

Mr Osinbajo condemned the unauthorised standoff at the National Assembly complex, describing it as a gross violation of constitutional order, rule of law and all acceptable notions of law and order.

He said, the unlawful act, which was done without the knowledge of the Presidency, is condemnable and completely unacceptable.

The acting president, therefore, assured Nigerians that all persons within the law enforcement apparatus, who participated in this travesty would be identified and subjected to appropriate disciplinary action.

The sacked SSS boss had, along with the IGP and the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, earlier met behind closed doors with the acting president.

The Tuesday siege was mainly carried out by the SSS and lasted from the early hours of Tuesday till afternoon. The siege was lifted about an hour after Mr Daura was sacked from office.

At the start of the siege, everyone, including lawmakers, was prevented from entering the National Assembly. However, lawmakers were later allowed in while journalists and staff of the assembly were barred.

Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris

The siege is believed to have been targeted at Senate President Bukola Saraki to allow his removal from office while senators opposed to him would be allowed in.

That move appeared to have been abandoned following public outcry. Most Nigerians including leaders of opposition parties condemned the actions of the security agencies.

The UK government also expressed concern, saying it was monitoring the development.
As PDP presidential aspirants intensify efforts to secure the partys ticket ahead of the 2019 general elections, Gombe governor Ibrahim Dankwambo on Monday visited Kaduna to solicit the support of the partys delegates in the North-west zone.

Mr Dankwambo, who announced his desire to challenge for the nations top job at the weekend, met with the zones statutory delegates and urged them to support his bid for the partys ticket.

Describing himself as a serious contender, Mr Dankwambo said that the North-West Zone was his first port of call because it was very crucial to success in the presidential race.

There are more than 18 million voters in the northwest geopolitical zone. No serious presidential contender can toy with such mass of voters.

The zone also has a large number of delegates for the PDP primaries, he noted, adding that its votes would determine who would fly the PDP ticket in 2019.

The governor urged the delegates to vote for him during the primary elections, saying that he had the popularity to win the secondary elections.

He urged the delegates to prevail on qualified Nigerians to acquire the Permanent Voter Cards(PVC) to enable them vote in the 2019 general polls which he said were very important to Nigeria and Nigerians.

Mr Dankwambo urged the delegates to constantly remind PDP supporters of the August deadline for the PVC given by INEC, noting that the PVC was a major instrument that would determine the nations direction.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Zonal Vice Chairman of the PDP, Ibrahim Kazaure; the partys National Secretary, Umar Tsauri; state chairpersons and Secretaries of the party in Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa, Zamfara, Kebbi, Sokoto and Katsina attended the event.

Dankwambos rivals for the PDP presidential ticket include former Kaduna Governor Ahmed Makarfi, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Bukola Saraki and Sokoto Governor Aminu Tambuwal.

Others include two former governors of Kano State  Rabiu Kwankwaso and Ibrahim Shekarau, former Sokoto Governor Attahiu Bafarawa, among others.

Also in Kaduna, the state chapter of the PDP on Monday received Suleiman Hunkuyi and his supporters in Kaduna.

Mr Hunkuyi, who represents Kaduna North in the Senate, was among the 13 APC senators who recently defected to the PDP and other political parties.

Mr Hunkuyi was received by the State Chairman of the PDP, Felix Hyet, and other executive members of the party at the Trade Fair Complex, Kaduna.

Mr Hyet urged them to work with the party to take power from the APC in the state come 2019.

He claimed Mr Hunkuyi brought APC to power in the state.

I believe he has realised his mistake and would work hard towards correcting that by helping to send him (the governor) packing from Sir Kashim Ibrahim House,Hyet said.

Mr Hunkuyi who arrived the venue of the event with other defectors was received by a crowd of supporters.

He said that PDP is fully back, rebranded and ready to take over power from the ruling party.

However, he claimed he made an error bringing Mr el-Rufai on board in 2015. He begged for forgiveness over the role he played in bringing the APC to power in Kaduna.

We came to join hands with our friends to liberate our state from the bondage of APC in Kaduna State.

Lets join hands with our great party PDP and change things.

The immediate past Governor of the state, Ramalan Yero , and Muhammad Bello who are both seeking the partys ticket for the governorship seat, were among those who attended the event.

(NAN)
A 52-year-old man, Pius Miller, and his son, Israel, 17, were on Tuesday docked in an Ile-Ife Magistrates Court in Osun for allegedly stealing a telecommunications cable.

The cable was valued at N11,700.

The Prosecutor, Sunday Osanyintuyi, told the court that the accused committed the offence on July 30 at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex in Ile-Ife.

Mr Osanyintuyi said that the accused conspired with an intent to commit felony to wit: stealing telecommunications cable, property of the hospital.

He added that the offence contravened Sections 383, 390 (9) and 516 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Osun State, 2002.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge of conspiracy and theft.

The defence counsel, Mr Ben Adirieje, applied for the bail of the accused on liberal terms.

Adirieje pledged that the accused would not jump bail.

The Magistrate, Mr Ishola Omisade, granted bail to the accused in the sum of N100, 000 with one surety each in like amount.

Omisade added that the sureties must swear to an affidavit of means and must reside within the courts jurisdiction.

He adjourned the case until September 3 for hearing.

(NAN)
Esubi Bakare, 90, who allegedly defrauded a man of N1.7 million, under the pretext of selling a piece of land to him, on Tuesday appeared in an Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates Court in Lagos.

The accused, 90, appeared on a four-count charge for conspiracy, obtaining under false pretext, breach of peace and threat to life.

She, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

But police prosecutor, Chinalu Uwadione, had told the court that the accused committed the offences on May 12, at Oko Agerige, Ado-Ajah.

He said that the accused obtained the N1.7 million from Ololade Akinyemi, the complainant, under the pretext of selling a piece of land to him.

The prosecutor also said that the accused had threatened to kill anyone who encroached into the land.

The offences contravened Sections 56(a), 168, 314 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs A.O. Adedayo, admitted the accused to a bail in the sum of N500, 000 with two responsible sureties each in like sum.

She, however, adjourned the case until August 21 for mention.

(NAN)
HARRISBURG >> Whitewater boating enthusiasts once again will converge on Bucks Countys Tohickon Creek Saturday and Sunday, November 6 and 7, when the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) releases water from Lake Nockamixon into Tohickon Creek. Releases are historically scheduled on a semi-annual basis, usually occurring on the third weekend in March and the first weekend in...
Fake news is not just a threat to the peace and security of a nation but a threat to the existence of the media itself, the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has said.

Mr Mohammed, who has been championing a campaign against fake news was the chairperson of a conference to address the rise of fake news in Nigeria ahead of the 2019 general election organised by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD).

Themed: Democracy and Disinformation: How Fake News Threatens our Freedom and Democracy in Nigeria, the two-day conference kicked off Tuesday in Abuja.

In his opening remark, Mr Mohammed said the immediate victims of fake news is the media.

If Nigerians see a particular media outlet as a purveyor of fake news, then it means the outlet is no longer credible and its fellowship will drop significantly making them to run out of business.

The minister said fake news is the greatest threat to the 2019 election. This is why this workshop organized by the CDD and other CSOs to tackle fake news is timely and necessary.

Mr Mohammed further blamed the 1994 genocide in Rwanda to fake news and hate speech.

The Rwandan genocide, also known as the genocide against the Tutsi was a mass slaughter of Tutsi in Rwanda by members of the Hutu majority government. Over 500,000 Rwandans were killed during the 100-day period from April 7 to mid-July 1994.

While Vanguard Newspaper recently reported that the electoral body has come out with facts that the alleged under aged voting in the February elections in Kano emanated from fake news, the BBC also reported that fake news fuels the herdsmen/farmers clash in Nigeria, the government spokesperson said.

Fake news in Nigeria has become so endemic that it goes from sublime to ridiculous and the most ridiculous I have seen so far was when last week the social media was full of news that my driver abandoned me in the middle of the road and decamped to PDP. I say its ridiculous because my driver is a civil servant who I inherited and even if he has political leaning, he should let me know. Why would he now be so irrational to drop me in the middle of the road just because he wants to decamp to PDP.

Mr Mohammed accused opposition parties of alleged planing to use fake news to influence the outcome of the 2019 elections.

In Nigeria, some opposition leaders are already visiting Georgia, Ukraine and other countries an a mission to use cyber war to influence the outcome of the next election. That is why we must all stand up against fake news. 

He however expressed hope in the fight against fake news in the social media space.

Google put aside $300 million to fight fake news in the next three years, Facebook has deleted about 600 million fake accounts. Twitter deleted 70 million fake accounts in the last three months. Whatsapp has created a software to ensure fake news is tackled. Its not only in Nigeria, fake news is a threat to the world.

Please if you see a story, ask yourself how credible it is and dont share unless you believe it is true, he said.

The minister also declared the workshop open.

Earlier in his remark, Jibrin Ibrahim of the CDD said the emergence of the social media gave rise to unrestricted influx of fake news in Nigeria.

Mr Ibrahim cited many examples of fakes news that emanated from the social media such as the monkey pox scare last year, when the army was alleged to be injecting school children with the deadly disease in the South-eastern part of the country.

We tend to focus too much in this country by what is said by the traditional media but that the fact of the day is that the social media has taken over a lot of production and distribution of news. Facebook, with 25 million Nigerians commenting every second is the largest newsroom in the country and when such huge newsroom is manipulated, its a huge problem. With 2019 election coming we do have a serious crisis before us and its in this context that we feel its very important to understand the tactics and strategies used to divide this country through fake news.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), experts, renowned journalists, civil society actors, academia and government officials all participated in the conference supported by Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) and MacArthur Foundation.
Two Nigerian opposition parties, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Social Democratic Party (SDP) in separate statements on Tuesday condemned the siege to the National Assembly by security officials.

The Pan-Igbo socio-cultural association, Ohaneze Ndigbo, also decried the incident.

The siege lasted several hours until Vice President Yemi Osinbajo announced the sack of the Director-General of the State Security Service, Lawal Daura, whose masked officials led the raid.

Hailing Mr Osinbajo for sacking Mr Daura, the PDP, however, called on the National Assembly to deploy all legislative instruments against President Muhammadu Buhari to protect democracy in Nigeria.

In a statement by its publicity secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, PDP said in sending armed security men to invade the National Assembly, blocking lawmakers from accessing the legislative chambers on Tuesday, President Buhari had crossed the line.

It said the act placed the nations democracy in jeopardy and was setting it on the path of anarchy.

The invasion of our highest legislative institution by agents of the Buhari-led executive, a few months after the Senate mace was blazingly carted away by armed hoodlums, is condemnable, reprehensible, unpardonable, and completely unacceptable.

It has become clear that the Buhari Presidency and the All Progressives Congress (APC) intend to forcefully overrun and ultimately shutdown the highest lawmaking organ of the Nigerian government and pave the way for the total suspension of constitutional rule in the country.

The PDP further called on Britain and other members of the international community to condemn the ugly development in the country.

In another statement, the National Chairman of the PDP, Uche Secondus , also urged the United Kingdom to expel President Buhari from London where he said he is hiding to plan the undermining of democracy in the country. mr Buhari is currently on vacation in London.

But Mr Secondus said Britain should not allow its environment be turned into a haven for anti democracy conspirators.

The SDP, in a statement by its national publicity secretary, Alfa Mohammed, said the invasion of the National Assembly was a breach of the the 1999 Constitution, which enjoins separation of powers and independence of the legislature.

We are gradually being pushed to a state of anarchy due to the desperation of the government in power to force a change in the leadership of the Senate.

This conduct amounts to assault on the democracy which we risked our lives and fought for, and a declaration by government that we can all take the law into our own hands! This desperation must stop, the party stated.

In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Uche Achi-Okpaga, Ohaneze described the incident as disgraceful and disappointing.

Recent events in Nigeria, climaxing in the blockade and prevention of marked adversary Senators and House Of Representative Members from gaining access into the legislative building altogether, are not coming to us as surprises.

Instead, they are sprouting in alarming crescendos in crystal vindication of our stand that only a restructured Nigeria can thrive henceforth.

The foundations of Nigeria have been pulverized and until restructured will continue to nosedive irretrievably.

The event of today in particular is raw as it is a clueless brandishing from the executors. Nothing more can be an impeachable offence than this callous desecration of the National Assembly which is the symbol of democracy, he said.

To offer any reason(s) for this igneous and ignominious display is to merely dwell in whipping sentiments.

Ohaneze insisted that the police and the SSS acted on instructions from above to the chagrin of helpless and horribly dumbfounded Nigerians.
The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) says Nigeria has to improve its World Bank Ease of Doing Business index ranking by 45 places over the next two years to achieve its goal of attaining the top 100 by 2020.

In 2017, the World Bank report said Nigeria was one of the top 10 most improved economies in the world after moving up 24 places to 145th in its ranking during the year.

But, PEBEC Secretary, Jumoke Oduwole, said after the presentation of the 2018 Making Business Work Report of PEBEC during a meeting of the council that the country must improve.

A statement sent by Bisi Daniels, spokesperson to the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Ikechukwu Enelamah, to PREMIUM TIMES at the end of the meeting, said realising the goal required accelerated and focused execution of government Executive Order and National Action Plans (NAP).

It is clear that Nigeria must now intensify its reform efforts, while the PEBEC will continue to work closely with the public and private sectors to institutionalise its reforms, cascade them to state level, and refine and improve the business environment, she said.

The 2018 Making Business Work Report, the statement said, was the current reform cycle focused on three pillars to accelerate and expand the impact of completed reforms.

She said these were deepening existing reforms through the completion of pending initiatives and ensuring implementation of completed reforms launched in 2017.

The other pillar, she noted, was making the reforms sustainable through several measures to ensure sustainable progress.

Another was providing support reforms with a robust operating model to accelerate change and build capacity within ministries, department and agencies (MDAs).

Mrs Oduwole, a Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industry, Trade and Investment, said Nigeria has come a long way over the past two years, bouncing back from significant macroeconomic distress, and on the way to becoming an example of how an African country can turn its business around.

As part of its implementation strategy, she said, PEBEC was building the capacity of the MDAs to deliver and strengthen their capabilities for the long-term, to sustain the improvements on an on-going basis.

It will also garner strong political will and determination by the government to effect changes and improvement, she said.

Also, she said, council was fostering cooperation between the MDAs across states, National Assembly and the private sector; ensuring effective coordination between the relevant agencies to provide a unified view of implications and improvements.

In the second half of 2018 and 2019, she said, PEBEC would focus primarily on regulators, an omnibus nill on business facilitation, and consolidating gains for the economy through the deepening of the subnational Ease of Doing Business project.

The PEBEC, chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, was inaugurated in July 2016 as the administrations flagship initiative to reform the business environment, attract investment and diversify the economy to reduce the nations reliance on oil.

PEBECs principal goal is to make it easier for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to do business, grow and contribute to sustainable economic activity, and provide the jobs essential to improve social inclusion.
The siege on the National Assembly is an affront on democracy and an assault on freedom, a senator, Shehu Sani, has said.

The siege, by officials of the State Security Service (SSS), lasted several hours until the Director General of the SSS, Lawal Daura, was sacked by Acting President Yemi Osinbajo.

Mr Osinbajo said the siege was not authorised.

In his reaction, Mr Sani said Security apparatus mus limit their role and responsibilities within the ambit of democracy.

He called on President Muhammadu Buhari and Mr OSinbajo to intervene.

The siege has been condemned by most Nigerians including opposition politicians and parties.
The Nigeria Election Situation Room, a coalition of civic groups, has condemned Tuesdays development at the National Assembly saying it is unconstitutional.

The coalition, in a statement jointly signed and read by its chairperson, Clement Nwankwo, on Tuesday evening described as a serious threat to democracy the actions of the Department of State Security (DSS), Nigeria Police and security forces, in barricading the gates of the National Assembly and preventing the functioning of an independent arm of government.

The National Assembly was taken over by SSS operatives earlier Tuesday, amidst claims that there was an attempt to forcibly remove Senate President Bukola Saraki from office.

Scores of senators and members of the House of Representatives were initially blocked from entering into the National Assembly premises, but all of them were later allowed to move in after threatening to force their way in.

The Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, consequently ordered the sack of the Director General of the State Security Service (SSS), Lawal Daura, with immediate effect.

Most Nigerians including leaders of opposition parties condemned the actions of the security agencies.

The UK government also expressed concern, saying it was monitoring the development.

These actions are unconstitutional and negate Nigerias democratic development putting almost 20 years of Nigerias Fourth Republic in great crisis and danger. Nigerias Constitution and laws and the National Assembly Rules define clear procedures for removal of presiding officers, the civic groups said in the statement.

Seeking to forcibly and violently interfere with the leadership of the National Assembly, points to dictatorship. Civil Society and Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs) fought very hard against the military dictatorship that seized Nigeria in December, 1983 in a coup led by General Muhamadu Buhari and enthroned democracy in 1999.

It is our concern that todays barricade of the National Assembly represents a series of undemocratic actions by the executive arm of government that poses major questions about Nigerias practice of democracy.

This falls into a growing list of deliberate attempt to undermine the constitutional order by this government. We note with appreciation the decisive step taken by the Acting President to sack the DG DSS.

The Situation Room is made up of civil society organisations working in support of credible and transparent elections in Nigeria. Such groups include Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), CLEEN Foundation, ActionAid Nigeria, Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) among others.
Nigerias main opposition party, PDP, has said it was not aware that a senator, Godswill Akpabio, was going to London to meet with President Muhammadu Buhari on Sunday.

Speaking with journalists on Monday, the partys spokesperson, Kola Ologbondiyan, said the former governor of Akwa Ibom State told members of the partys National Working Committee that he was on his way to Germany.

Mr Ologbondiyan also denied the partys prior knowledge of Mr Akpabios defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress.

He told us he was going to Germany and if he ended up in London, maybe, he had a technical stopover.

The PDP has no issues with Akpabio whatsoever and the party will not respond to speculations of his readiness to defect. We have no notice of the said defection and all I can say now is that we will cross the bridge when we get there.

Mr Akpabio is believed to be set to defect from the PDP, where he leads as Senate minority leader, to the ruling APC.

He recently met with President Muhammadu Buhari in London and a leader of the APC, Bola Tinubu, in Abuja.

According to officials in the presidency, he is expected to be received in a grand reception on Wednesday or Thursday in Akwa-Ibom.

Mr Akpabio has neither confirmed nor debunked the development but information emerged on Tuesday morning that he has resigned his position as Senate minority leader.
The rest are Chigozie Oguike, Olu Salisu, Jomo Gadagbe, Kunle Oba Saheed, and Rasheed Adio.

They were arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on July 27, 2017, on three counts of conspiracy and unlawful dealing in petroleum products.

During the trial, the EFCC presented three witnesses and tendered eight exhibits before the court.

While pronouncing his judgment on Monday, Mr Idris said the prosecution proved their allegations beyond a reasonable doubt.

The prosecution has been able to lead overwhelming evidence against the defendants, the judge said.

The defendants have not been able to adduce evidence capable of puncturing the evidence put forward by the prosecution. I, therefore, find all the defendants guilty as charged.

He sentenced the convicts to five years in prison on counts one and two; and two years on count three.

The jail terms are to run concurrently.

In his plea for leniency, Dada Awosika, the defence lawyer, described his clients as victims of circumstances.

They only acted on the instruction of the vessel owner, Mr Awosika said.

They are mechanics, stewards, generator repairers. None of them gave evidence of having interest in the product.

But, Rotimi Oyedepo, the prosecutor, urged the judge to reject the plea for leniency and impose the maximum penalty, so as not to encourage others to engage in the criminal act.

I have listened to the plea of allocutus; there is no doubt that they (convicts) are first-time offenders, said the judge.

It should be noted that this crime is rampant and it is almost crippling the economic survival of the country.

The EFCC had alleged that around April 4, 2015, the convicts had conspired to commit the crime by dealing in petroleum product without the appropriate licence.

They were arrested by officers of the Nigerian Navy and handed over to the commission on June 16, 2015.

According to the EFCC, the Department of Petroleum Resources took samples of the cargo from the vessel and the result showed the product to be Automotive Gas Oil (diesel).
A former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned the siege by operatives of the State Security Service (SSS) on the National Assembly.

The SSS officials blocked the entrance of the assembly on Tuesday morning, initially barring anyone from going in. They later allowed lawmakers into the assembly.

Journalists and other staff of the assembly were barred from the entering as at the time of this report.

The security siege is believed to be related to the move to remove Bukola Saraki as senate president.

Read Atiku Abubakars reaction, as contained in a statement by his office, below.

The attention of former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has been drawn to an illegal and undemocratic attempt by fascist forces to break into the National Assembly for the purpose of furthering the agenda to force a change in the Nigerian Senates leadership.

Atiku Abubakar completely condemns this atrocity and calls on all those involved to put Nigeria first and abandon this madness.

The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, guarantees both the independence of the Legislature and separation of powers. Nigeria is a democracy not a military dictatorship and we the people will never return to tyranny.

Atiku Abubakar calls on President Muhammadu Buhari and acting President Yemi Osinbajo to stop hiding behind one finger and live up to their responsibility of upholding the constitution and law and order, which they swore to on May 29, 2015.

We warned that if what occurred in Benue last week was not checked on time, it would escalate to the federal level. Today we are seeing that warning in play.

The acting President, being himself a Professor of Law, ought to know that setting such a precedent is an invitation to anarchy.

There are better uses for our security forces at this time than to lay siege to our citadels of democracy. Our people are languishing in the midst of unprecedented insecurity and nationwide killings. To thus deploy our security forces in this present manner whilst Nigerians face these challenges is an abdication of responsibility to say the least.

All Nigerians should be watchful and mobilised to defend democracy. We must remember that eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.
Adams Oshiomhole, the chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, is not yet aware of what is happening at the Nigerian parliament, his spokesperson told PREMIUM TIMES.

The National Assembly was taken over by operatives of the State Security Service and police officers this morning. They initially prevented lawmakers from entering, but later allowed them following attempts to break in. Journalists and staff of the assembly had not been allowed to enter as at the time of this report.

The development, which is still underway, has sparked nationwide row, and some opposition voices like Atiku Abubakar have condemned it.

But Mr Oshiomhole was not yet aware of the situation, his spokesperson Simon Egbegbulem said.

He has not been briefed about the matter and he is not a security officer, Mr Egbegbulem told PREMIUM TIMES by telephone at 12:07 p.m. Tuesday.

The Chairman is not even aware of what is happening at the National Assembly, he emphasised. He travelled yesterday and came back and not quite long he got back to the office

He has not been briefed by anybody, he added.

Mr Oshiomhole has been accused of camping senators at Sheraton Hotels in Abuja, where he allegedly demanded that they must sign papers to remove Senate President Bukola Saraki from office.

Mr Egbegbulem also denied this allegation, dismissing it as part of oppositions campaign of deceit.

National Chairman of All Progressives Congress, (APC), Adams Oshiomhole 03946/23/7/18/Ismaila Ibrahim/NAN
The leadership of the National Assembly has postponed its scheduled leadership meeting slated for Tuesday.

This was contained in a statement jointly signed by the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara.

They attributed the postponement to the earlier invasion of the assembly complex by officials of the State Security Service. They also condemned the invasion.

Read the full statement from the presiding officials below

Aftermath of DSS Invasion of NASS Complex: Saraki, Dogara Postpone Leadership Meeting

Following the on-going invasion of the National Assembly complex by men of the Department of State Services (DSS) in which legislators and members of staff, including the Clerk of the National Assembly, Alhaji Mohammed Sani Omolori, who is the administrative head of the Federal legislature, were harassed and prevented from accessing their offices, Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki and Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara have condemned the action of the security agents and described it as another attempt to subevert the nations democracy.

In a statement jointly signed by the two presiding officers of both Chambers of the National Assembly, Saraki and Dogara stated that the heavy presence of armed security men who unnecessarily militarized the legislative complex and harassed legislators and the workers in the complex could not be justified in a democracy.

The Senate President and Speaker further noted that today was a sad day for democracy as very early in the morning, they got reports backed by video and pictures, from members of staff of the National Assembly, their colleagues from both chambers and other individuals, about the heavy presence of the security personnel who insisted that nobody would enter the complex except certain Senators who were to be conveyed into the complex in a Coaster bus.

By 6.30 am, the reports started coming in and by 7am, there were pictures and video online showing armed security men preventing Senators and Honourable members from coming into the Complex. Some of our colleagues then mobilized other members in both chambers from their respective abode so that they could pressurize the Security men from allowing them to gain entry.

Obviously, the public outcry from Nigerians and members of the international community against this illegality, this desecration of the sanctity of the legislature and this flagrant abuse of powers forced the government to relax the directives given to the security men as they later allowed the legislators to walk from the main gate into the foyer. Still the lawmakers were not allowed to drive in, in their vehicles and were denied access into the main building housing their offices.

It is not clear what the plan of the government is but information reaching us indicated that some Senators who are pro-executive arm are being camped somewhere here in Abuja and they are being compelled to sign an impeachment notice that would later be brought to the Assembly complex. The Senate Chamber will now be forced open to enable an illegal change of leadership take place in the Senate.

It should be noted that the Senate formally adjourned on July 24, 2018 and it stands adjourned. To reconvene, there is a process which has to be followed. Also, it should be clear that these Senators who are camped somewhere know the procedure for changing the leadership of the Senate. Both the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Presidency officials masterminding this illegality know that they do not have the numbers to lawfully carry out this action.

Therefore, we call on members of the international community to view this development as a coup against democracy. This is a throw-back to the inglorious days of military rule where dissent is not tolerated and freedom of association and other fundamental human rights are willfully and carelessly violated.

We urge Nigerians and the international community to condemn this illegal invasion of the National Assembly complex and the attempt to asphyxiate the legislature as undemocratic, uncivilized and irresponsible.

Let us use this opportunity to thank our colleagues in the Senate and House of Representatives who immediately mobilized to resist this coup against democracy. Their action will be recorded as one taken at a time when the soul of this country is being imperilled. They have acted to avert the breakdown of constitutionalism and collapse of the rule of law. They have stood up to dictatorship and demonstrated that this country belongs to all of us.

We also thank members of the press, local and international, and all Nigerians whose support for the cause of democracy have sustained us this far.

Following this unpleasant development, the joint leadership meeting slated for this afternoon has been postponed till further notice because under the prevailing circumstances, we cannot guarantee the safety of the 20 members from both chambers expected at the meeting, Saraki and Dogara stated.

Signed

1. Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, CON

President of the Senate

2. Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara

Speaker, House of Representatives
KMazur/WireImageThe King of Pops milestone birthday will be celebrated in style in Las Vegas.

The Michael Jackson Diamond Birthday Celebration will take place on August 29 -- which would have been MJ's 60th birthday -- at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino, according to Billboard.

Michael's children Paris and Prince, and his brothers Jackie, Marlon and Tito are expected to attend the two-part event. A performance of Michael Jackson One by Cirque du Soleil will be followed by an after-party at the Daylight Beach Club.

At the party, Paris, who is an Ambassador for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, will accept the 2018 Elizabeth Taylor Legacy Award for Humanitarian Service on behalf of her late father. The Michael Jackson Estate is working with the foundation to bring health care to the African country of Malawi.

The party, for invited guests and those who attend the Cirque du Soleil performance, will include interactive elements inspired by Michael's videos.

Copyright  2018, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Uche Secondus, has condemned the Tuesday siege on the National Assembly by officials of the State Security Service (SSS).

He also asked the United Kingdom to expel President Muhammadu Buhari from the country, alleging that the Nigerian leader planned the siege from there.

Mr Buhari is currently in London on vacation.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how the UK earlier said it was monitoring the situation in Nigeria and advised on respecting the rule of law and democratic principles.

The PDP chairman accused the president of hiding in that country to plan the undermining of democracy in Nigeria.

Security officials, mainly from the SSS, on Tuesday prevented lawmakers, staff and journalists from gaining entrance to the National Assembly.

The siege was only lifted in the afternoon, several hours after it began. During the barricade, lawmakers were eventually allowed in while other categories of people were barred.

The incident, believed to have been planned to remove Senate President Bukola Saraki, led to the sack of Director General of the SSS, Mamman Daura, by Acting President Yemi Osibanjo.

Mr Secondus in his statement said the UK should not allow its environment be turned into a haven for anti-democracy conspirators.

In the statement signed by his media aide, Ike Abonyi, Mr Secondus said the final plan for the invasion of National Assembly was made when the outgoing Senate minority leader, Godswill Akpabio, visited the president in London at the weekend.

PREMIUM TIMES reported the visit of Mr Buhari to Mr Akpabio. The latter is expected to formally join the APC on Wednesday, but has resigned his position as Senate minority leader.

Mr Secondus, however, commended Acting President Yemi Osinbajo for sacking Mr Daura.

Mr Osinbajo sacked Mr Lawal and also said the siege was not authorised by the presidency.

When an executive arm in a democratic setting muscles up other arms of government, the correct name for such administration is autocracy and dictatorship, Mr Secondus said.

Nigerians and international community have continuously watched this administration, harass and intimidate the legislature and judiciary as well as others in opposition in their bid to create a dictatorial regime.

All over the World, the parliament is the bastion of democracy and rule of law anybody not willing to alien himself to them is trying to create anarchy in the land, he said.

The opposition leader than called on President Buhari to resign.

We are aware that when a regime exhausts idea of what to do and loses the legitimacy that brought it to power, it could be dangerous like a bull in China shop. But truth is that Nigeria will survive this regime and laugh last.
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, has predicted that Nigerian youth, with their population, could determine the outcome of the 2019 general elections.

He also revealed that the Osun State governorship election, slated for September 22, would feature the highest number of contestants in the history of governorship elections in Nigeria so far.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the management of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), which hosted the INEC Youth Votes Count Campus Outreach Initiative on August 7, Mr Yakubu revealed that judging from the figures emanating from the on-going Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, coupled the voting pattern noticed in the 2015 general elections, Nigerian youth currently constitute a sizeable percentage of the total population of registered voters that could be a game changer in the 2019 polls.

He averred that since the commencement of the CVR exercise in April 2017, the commission has registered close to 11 million Nigerians.

His words: By the time we suspend the CVR exercise on August 17, the number of registered voters will be well over 11 million. If we add this to the existing Voter Register of 70 million, and by the time we go into the 2019 general elections, we would have had over 80 million voters.

He continued: From what we are seeing so far (in the ongoing CVR), 2019 is going to be the year of the youth. Quite a large number of those that have registered to vote are the youth, meaning the young boys and girls between the ages of 18 and 35. When we did the analysis of the 2015 presidential election results, the youth also played a very important role.

So, we are here (Bayero University) to continue to encourage them. We have already announced the date for the suspension of the CVR, which is August 17th. We have been registering eligible Nigerians for the last 16 months (since April 27, 2017).

On the Osun State Governorship Election, Mr Yakubu said that 48 political parties were fielding a record number of 48 candidates for one position, the highest so far in any governorship election conducted by INEC in the country.

He said, we had 37 candidates for Anambra and 35 for Ekiti governorship elections, but Osun has beaten them all.

He said that while the commission had already registered 68 political parties, it is currently processing over 130 applications from associations seeking registration as political parties.

He said: Our projection is that we might end up with 80 to 85 political parties. If half of them nominate candidates, we may end up with 46,000 candidates for the 2019 general elections.

He gave the breakdown: In 2019, we are going to conduct elections into 1,558 constituencies thus: 1 Presidential Constituency, 29 Governorship Constituencies, because in seven states, the governorship elections are conducted off-season. We have done six, and next month, we are conducting the Osun governorship election. Then, we have 109 Senators, 360 Members of the House of Representatives, 991 Members of State Assemblies, and 69 Chairmen and Councillors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The INEC chairman also revealed that since the 2015 general elections, the commission had conducted elections into 182 constituencies. These elections have helped us to improve our processes and sharpen our skills.

He thanked the management of the university for producing the kind of workforce the commission needs for election duties, adding that INEC has been benefitting from BUKs pool of staff members who had served as Returning and Collation officers.

Responding, the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Mohammed Bello, said:

We want to thank you for choosing our university for the zonal engagement event. It shows the confidence you have in us and I assure you that we will do whatever we can to give you support on this.

The task before you is a herculean one. But in addition to the foundation laid by Attahiru Jega, anyone that knows you and has seen the difference you have been making where you are, would know that you are up to the task.

Where you served at TETFUND (Tertiary Education Trust Fund) or ETF (Education Trust Fund) as it used to be before coming to INEC, you also revolutionized the place completely. TEFUND used to be an appendix, maybe when one or two institutions receive some interventions. But when you became the Executive Secretary of the then ETF, you undertook a task that I would have thought was impossible  changing not only the name but also the focus, from ETF to TETFUND, and making significant impact on the university system.

We shall do our best to help you. Let me use this opportunity to express our appreciation to you for what you did for this University (BUK) during your earlier calling. 

The INEC Youth Votes Count Campus initiative, which took place on August 7 at the BUK, is being sponsored by the European Union (EU). It is the third in the series, having been held at the Universities of Abuja and Lagos. It is designed to encourage the youth, particularly university students to register, collect their Permanent Voters Card, vote in the 2019 general elections and continue to participate in the electoral process.

The INEC Ambassadors who appeared at the programme include Yakubu Mohammed El Yakub, Nafisat Abdullahi (both actors), Korede Bello (musician) and Gimba Umar (a journalist with Channels Television).

On hand to receive the INEC Team were, the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Ibrahim Gambari, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics),Sagir Abbas, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Admin), Adamu Tanko, Registrar, Fatima Mohammed, Librarian, Musa Auyo and Director of Public Affairs, Ahmad Shehu.

Those in the INEC Chairmans team include Chief Technical Adviser, Bolade Eyinla, Special Adviser, Mohammad Kuna and Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Oyekanmi.
As the 2019 general elections draw near, media experts on Tuesday proffered solutions to limit the spread of fake news.

The two-day conference in Abuja, where the experts spoke, was organised by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD). It is aimed at addressing the rise of fake news.

The event, chaired by the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, had Dapo Olorunyomi, PREMIUM TIMES publisher; Tolu Ogunlesi, Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Digital/New Media; Simon Kolawole, Publisher, CableNG; Kadaria Ahmed, CEO, Daria LTD; and Adaora Onyechere, African Independent Televison (AIT) in its first panel discussion.

Mr Olorunyomi said technology has advanced to the point that it can even be used to even elect a fake president.

You can target people through the algorithm and the technology models and change realities. You can even elect a fake president through it, you can decide democracy and you can destroy democracy. Someone in a small room or a small analytical company can help elect governments in Brazil, India, U.S.A and even in Nigeria. The whole face of democracy can be engineered by these existing algorithm in this age of social media.

Trying to regulate the media in Nigeria will not work. I am not saying there is no falsehood in the media but the use of social media technologies where millions of people can be targeted at once is a major issue to be addressed, he explained.

Mrs Onyechere stressed the need for the application of caution while tackling fake news so as not to muscle human rights.

For Mr Ogunlesi, the first step in tackling fake news is to douse the human elements and biases that appeal to fake information.

Purveyors of fake news understand certain sentiments that appeal to a particular public. It can be religious, tribal or political and they use this to penetrate people with fake news.

Ms Ahmed said a strong media organisation is the right tool to tackle fake news.

If you have a strong media organisation, people will go there to get news and discount the fake news that is in circulation. However, good journalism costs money. People are not willing to invest in quality news gathering. Nigerian citizens need to support the media. We need to change the standard of our editorial values and standards.

She said any form of bill by the government to regulate the media will be resisted.

Some guests at the conference Some guests at the conference

We are not afraid of regulation, we are wary of government regulation. Our democracy has not reached the stage where people can be able to detach themselves from their individual interest. Every government we have seen from the beginning of our democracy have done a number of things to project themselves while in office not in the interest of the average Nigerians. Therefore we will not agree that they have our interest at heart, when they said that they want to regulate the media.

Where we are today, the free press, functional and credible media is the biggest defense we have against fake news and tyrannical governments.

Meanwhile, the CDD also launched a news project at the conference.

The project coordinator, Alhassan Ibrahim, said CDD is partnering with PREMIUM TIMES in the project which aims at training 50 journalists on how to counter fake news.
The siege to the National Assembly by State Security Service (SSS) operatives, supported by the police, has drawn a lot of reaction from opposition parties and individuals.

This siege came amidst claims of attempts to force Senate President Bukola Saraki out of office.

Scores of senators and members of the House of Representatives were initially blocked from entering the National Assembly premises, but later allowed to move in after threatening to force their way in.

The security operatives who also stopped staff members of the National Assembly as well as journalists and other independent observers of legislative process said they were acting on orders from above.

Below are comments by Nigerians on the social media over the issue.

@chiefow To all the GULLIBLE Nigerians who are planning to vote for chief Tyrant Buhari, I hope youre seeing what is happening to our legislative democracy?

Your children will ask you.

Get sense in 2019. #SaveOurDemocracy #SiegeOnSenate

To all the GULLIBLE Nigerians who are planning to vote for chief 'Tyrant' Buhari, I hope you're seeing what is happening to our legislative democracy? Your children will ask you. Get sense in 2019. #SaveOurDemocracy #SiegeOnSenate pic.twitter.com/u9SfttuYsj  Ridwan Omooba (@chiefow) August 7, 2018

@onile050 Our CSO are outrightly silent today when the Nigeria democracy was been attacked.

Who noticed that @EiENigeria @SERAPNigeria and many others have been unnecessarily silent about the #Legislativecoup #SiegeOnSenate. With or without them we will all #SaveOurDemocracy.

@ruthlessanalyst I think there is more to this #SiegeOnSenate & the Vice President @ProfOsinbajo has taken an impressive & commendable step. I only hope more heads roll to curtail this ugly trend once and for all.

@NigeriaInfoAbj

@SHYDOO/Excuses unacceptable for VP @ProfOsinbajo. If he is allegedly not-aware of the #siegeonsenate happening under his watch as the ACTING PRESIDENT, then he is not in charge. HE SHOULD RESIGN FOR THE SAKE OF HIS FAITH AND PROFESSION. #SaveOurDemocracy #DemocracyUnderSiege

@segalink The true color of this admin has been revealed. Anti-People/Anti-Democracy. The facts are out there. They dont value the people and only seek to perpetuate themselves in power. While some were locked out of NASS others were allowed through the backdoor.#TruncationOfDemocracy

https://twitter.com/segalink/status/1026740055082262528

@ogundamisi Masked DSS Men is a no no, this should be condemned by every Nigerian irrespective of party affiliation, we saw same ninja looking DSS operatives in Ekiti and Osun under the @GEJonathan administration, @MBuhari government using same is a terrible low.

The Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, who was called on to check the excesses of security agencies, responded by summoning Lawal Daura, the head of SSS, and Inspector-General Ibrahim Idris.

Mr Daura was later sacked and asked to hand over to the most-senior official behind him, a move that has sent ripples through the countrys political and security circles.

While some Nigerians commended the move by the acting president, others doubt the intentions behind his sack saying Mr Daura was only a scapegoat.

@Rouvafe Osinbajo cannot sack DG DSS or any of Buharis appointees without the express permission of President Buhari.

If you ask me, I think Lawal Dauras sack was already agreed upon before PMB travelled. They just needed Osinbajo to execute the job.

@renoomokirir VP Osinbajo used wisdom to sack Daura. According to villa sources, Osinbajo first of all summoned the DG DSS to his office at exactly 1:15 PM. While he was still talking to Lawal Daura, Laolu @AkandeOJ was directed to release a statement announcing his sack in true mafiosi style!

@Hailfinger1 As expected, the failed and dysfunctional @APCNigeria is trying very hard to change the narratives on the sack of the DSS DG, Mr. Lawal Daura, to favour @MBuhari. The truth is that, Daura became a fall-guy because of the failure of the coup.He was sacked to protect the government

As expected, the failed and dysfunctional @APCNigeria is trying very hard to change the narratives on the sack of the DSS DG, Mr. Lawal Daura, to favour @MBuhari. The truth is that, Daura became a fall-guy because of the failure of the coup.He was sacked to protect the government pic.twitter.com/sje0NJQ30D  ibu thomas (@Hailfinger1) August 7, 2018

@omojuwa One more thing; if the Acting President didnt order the DSS blockage like his sack of the DG DSS apparently indicates, the sacked DG should by now be answering questions from investigators. That is what would happen in a country run by sane human beings.

The DSS, in practice, takes directives from the Presidency. Today, the DSS apparently took over the National Assembly in a dramatic show of shame. Then the Acting President fired the DG of DSS, obviously over that show at NASS. So, who is behind the NASS blockade? Messy games.  JJ. Omojuwa (@Omojuwa) August 7, 2018
Governor Muhammadu Bindow of Adamawa State has denied a report making the round that he was under pressure to drop the state deputy governor, Martins Babale, for a Muslim candidate.

Mr Bindow in a press statement issued by the Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Ahmad Sajoh, described the report as a blatant lie.

The statement blamed desperate politicians who had lost relevance in the state of using ethnic and religious sentiments to discredit his administration ahead of 2019 general elections.

We are aware that some politicians in Adamawa state who have totally lost political value and relevance have resorted to using ethnicity and religion as political currencies in the run-up to the 2019 elections.

What is even worse is that these group of persons are willing to plunge this state into unending crisis if they are unable to achieve their political goals.

In their desperation, they are prepared to go any length to score cheap political points including the recent hijacking of a peaceful procession organized by a credible religious body and now the hiring of a political tout masquerading as a journalist.

While reiterating the commitment of the government not to be distracted by blackmail, the statement urged the media not to allow political jobbers use their platforms to settle personal scores.

No amount of blackmail, intimidation or unholy use of ethnic chauvinism and religious bigotry, political jingoism or agbero-journalism will derail us.

Let those who believe they have what to tell the electorate in 2019 step forward and face us in election using issues and achievements as factors that determine our relative electoral fortunes, the statement added.

(NAN)
Ten aides to Governor Abdullahi Ganduje have resigned their appointment and pledged their allegiance to former deputy governor, Hafiz Abubakar.

They officials include two special advisers, three senior special assistants, two special assistants and two personal assistants.

Addressing journalists on Tuesday on behalf of the appointees who resigned their positions, the former special adviser to the governor on non-governmental organisations, Abdulhadi Chula, said they resigned their appointments to follow their leader, Hafiz Abubakar, who resigned his position recently.

Mr. Chula said Mr Gandujes administration has deviated from the ideology, policies and manifesto of Kwankwasiyya, the name given to the political group led by ex-Kano governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Mr Kwankwaso recently defected to the opposition PDP from the governing APC.

A current senator, Mr Kwankwaso is seeking to be Nigerias president on the PDP platform.

Mr Chula said although they have resigned their appointments, they are still members of R-APC, a faction of the ruling party.

The officials who resigned their appointments are Mr Chula, Bakari Ado (special adviser to governor on education), Habibu Abubakar (senior special assistant to the governor on administration, deputy governors office), Idris Rogo (senior special assistant to the governor on special duties) and Rukayya Jibrin (senior special assistant to the governor on drug mobilisation).

Others are Hafiz Bichi (special assistant to the governor, office of the deputy governor), Alhajiji Nagoda (special assistant to the governor on graveyards), Shamsu Kura (special assistant to the governor on Public Affairs), Kasim Jingau (personal assistant to the deputy governor on administration) and Kasim Bichi (personal assistant to the deputy governor on education).

When PREMIUM TIMES contacted the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ganduje, Abba Anwar, on the resignation, he requested for a text message saying he was in meeting. He is yet to respond to the text message sent as at the time of this report.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has commenced investigation into the alleged security breach at the Sultan Abubakar Sadiq III Airport, Sokoto, by loyalists of a politician on August 3.

Sam Adurogboye, the NCAAs General Manager, Public Affairs, said this in a statement in Lagos on Tuesday.

Mr Adurogboye said the authority was in receipt of reports of that a crowd breached security and gained access to critical areas of the airport.

The general manager said NCAA would not tolerate re-occurrence of such safety and security violations at any of the nations airports.

Supporters of a serving senator, Aliyu Wamakko, invaded the airport to welcome him as he pledged his loyalty to Nigerias ruling party, APC, and President Muhammadu Buhari.

This was days after the state governor, Aminu Tambuwal, dumped the APC for the opposition PDP.

Mr Adurogboye, however, advised members of the public to desist from unlawful acts, saying the authority would impose severe sanctions on any person, group of persons found culpable.

The general manager said the regulatory authority would continue to safeguard civil aviation against acts of unlawful interference at the nations airports.

He said NCAA, FAAN, Nigeria Police and other security agencies would continue to work together and ensure all airports were safe.

(NAN)
Former Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Sani Sidi, on Tuesday joined the Kaduna governorship race under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He declared his interest at the party secretariat where he went to submit his letter of intent.

In his remarks, Mr Sidi explained why he threw his hat into the ring.

I did not just come to contest, but I want to give back to the society. I am fully prepared to take the lead in this process. We are a party that is reputed to have a robust mechanism for resolving internal conflicts following every congress. I know we will do it even better this time around.

When we do this, we will take back our state from the jaws of misgovernance. When we do this, we will be able to restore the pride and respect of our traditional and religious institutions that have been desecrated by an opportunistic leadership that seeks to destroy our common heritage, he said.

Mr Sidi also lamented the insecurity bedeviling the state and promised to tackle this if elected.

We will stop the kidnappings, abductions, armed robbery and the general insecurity which have become the trademark of the present administration. We must save our educational system by training our teachers, provide good healthcare, develop our infrastructure and above all, unite our people, he said.

He said his vision is to ensure peace and unity and transform Kaduna State. He also said he would ensure entrenchment of party supremacy.

The Kaduna State PDP Chairman, Hassan Hyet, welcomed Mr Sidi to what he described as home.

This is your house and you have contributed a lot to the party. My brother, Sani Sidi, we are aware of how the government wanted to use all means to get rid of you.

They have only sent you out as part of the rescue mission to come and rescue Kaduna State. You are one of the most respected aspirants we have. I want to wish you the best, he said.
A Kano-based Non-Governmental Organisation, Prisoners Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA) has facilitated the release of 2, 000 inmates in Kano State.

The PRAWA state coordinator, Kaltume Mohammed, made the disclosure while briefing journalists in Kano on Tuesday.

She said the organisation has been working in partnership with the Legal Aid Council and other relevant agencies with a view to facilitating the release of prison inmates that spent many years in prison without trial.

The PRAWA Coordinator called on well-to-do persons in the state to support its efforts to ensure expeditious trial of inmates.

She said the call was necessary in view of the number of indigent prisoners who are currently awaiting trial in various prisons in the state.

These prisoners are from poor families or are poor themselves, so we are calling on wealthy individuals in the state to support us so that we can offer free legal services to such prisoners,

We recently discovered a young girl of 15 year who has been in prison for 20 years awaiting trial.

She explained that after discovering the girl who is now 35 years old they decided to take up the case and revisits it with their teams of Provono and paralegal partners.

The young girl awaiting trial on murder case is one among many who are languishing in prison for several years, she said.

She, therefore, called on the state government to support the organisation to enable its 21 Provono lawyers in office follow up such cases with a view to reducing congestion in the prisons.

As it is now we dont have any funding either from within or from international community but relied on ourselves to carry out the Prison Rehabilitation project and decongestion exercise, she added.

(NAN)
A senator, Godswill Akpabio, who ignited a political storm across the country with his planned defection from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has arrived Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Mr Akpabio, over the past few days, visited President Muhammadu Buhari in London where he (Buhari) is on a 10-day vacation. He also met with the APC leader, Bola Tinubu, as well as Acting President Yemi Osinbajo in preparation for his defection.

A large crowd of both PDP and APC supporters were at the Akwa Ibom International Airport, Uyo, singing and dancing to welcome the Akwa Ibom senator back home, Tuesday afternoon.

The crowd was something else, very unprecedented, a former aide to Mr Akpabio said of the reception at the airport.

Its a triumphant entry, I can tell you this, he said.

Among those who were at hand to receive Mr Akpabio were two commissioners serving under Governor Udom Emmanuel  the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Victor Antai, and the Commissioner for Labour, Productivity and Manpower Planning, Ibanga Akpabio, who is a relative of the senator.

Two House of Representatives members, Emmanuel Ekon (Abak federal constituency), and Emmanuel Akpan (Ikot Ekpene federal constituency) were also among those who received Mr Akpabio.

Mr Ekon flew in the same flight with the senator into Uyo, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.

Nse Ntuen, a state lawmaker representing Essien Udim, as well as the Deputy State Chairman of PDP, Michael Afangideh, was also at the airport to receive the senator.

A former commissioner for works, Don Etim, was there too.

The political leader of Essien Udim, Michael Afangideh, was among those that graced the reception at the senators country home in Ukana.

The senator, while driving in a motorcade from Uyo, through Ikot Ekpene, to his hometown in Essien Udim, made stopovers at some road intersections across the state to wave at jubilant crowd which gathered to welcome him.

He spoke with reporters at the airport, giving them a clue to what may have prompted his decision to leave the PDP.

He reportedly said that he had served the PDP faithfully and loyally and had helped build the party but that the party has chosen to reward those who had previously abandoned it when it mattered most, apparently referring to Senate President Bukola Sarakis return to the PDP.

Senator Akpabio driving through a large crowd of supporters and admirers in Uyo

Mr Akpabio is expected to be formally received into the APC on Wednesday at a political rally in Ikot Ekpene.

The senators planned defection has rattled many in the state, especially officials of the state government and PDP supporters.
HB42 has joined the Builders Merchants Federation as a supplier member.

HB42 launched in 2013 with its original Ultimate Sealant & Adhesive, and says it is "committed to using the latest available technologies" to produce a range of sealants, adhesives and fillers, while providing "good" margins for merchants.

HB42s Marketing Director, Scarlet McAleese-Banks said: HB42 as a brand has experienced 40% growth between 2016 and 2017. We are committed to only supplying the trade through builders' merchants, so it is timely that we have joined a leading industry body like the BMF to connect us better with our target market and build on this success.

HB42 looks forward to working closely with the BMF to build merchant relationships and explore new selling opportunities. McAleese-Banks added: We are hopeful that our new membership will expand our UK business nationally, helping us to improve our offering to the merchants. We are also looking forward to exhibiting and meeting merchants at UK Construction Weeks Build Show at the NEC in October."
Amid denials by Shell Nigeria Exploration & Production Company (SNEPCo), Onne Youth Council (OYC) on Tuesday staged a peaceful protest to the company urging it to rescind its alleged plan to relocate its supply base from Onne to Lagos.

Last Thursday, supposed workers of the company in a statement circulated to the media said the plan to relocate from the Oil & Gas Export Free Zone in Onne, Rivers State to Lagos Port violated the federal governments directive to oil companies against relocating their operational bases from the Niger Delta region.

The statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES by a supposed representative of the affected workers, Edward Otaru, described the planned relocation of the companys operational base as hurried and ill-advised and against the interest of the Niger Delta region.

However, when our reporter contacted the SNEPCo spokesperson, Bamidele Odugbesan, for comments for this story, he dismissed the alleged planned relocation of SNEPCo from Onne to Lagos as fake news. He asked members of the public to disregard it.

SNEPCo, the deep-water exploration and production subsidiary of Shell Nigeria, operates in Nigerias deep-water oil and gas production acreage at the Bonga oil field.

Mr Odugbesan also said the name of the signatory of the statement purportedly issued by SNEPCo workers (Mr Otaru) was not found in the global address list of Shell workers around the world.

Besides, the spokesperson said, Mr Otaru was not known as the leader of any of the oil workers unions, namely Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) authorised to speak on behalf of the workers.

He said SNEPCo, which operates offshore, has always had its headquarters in Lagos and not Onne in Port Harcourt.

Although he said Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) operates in Onne, Mr Odugbesan said he was not aware of any plan or directive for the company to relocate from Onne.

The only plan I am aware of is that SNEPCo, which has been making use of SPDCs logistics supply base operated in Onne, is trying to develop its own alternative supply base in Lagos. SNEPCo is not planning to relocate any of its operations from anywhere to Lagos, he said.

Some of the protesting Onne youth

But, on Tuesday, Onne youth, numbering over 1000, and carrying placards with various incriptions, marched to the company to register their displeasure over the rumoured location of the company.

The President of Onne youth council, Philip Tenwa, said one of their major concerns was that the alleged relocation of the company would lead to the loss of more than 5,000 direct and indirect jobs.

We are here today, on behalf of our numerous members and indeed the entire Onne Community wish to draw the attention of the Nigerian government and indeed the world to the plan by Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) to relocate its Supply Base from the Onne Port to Lagos.

Indeed, SNEPCo last week surreptitiously directed that all its property and equipment including turbines, engine spares and miscellaneous equipment spares be loaded into containers and moved out of the Onne Port, where it had operated for more than 20 years, to another port in Lagos, Mr Tenwa said.

Apart from the small businesses and contractors whose businesses would be affected by SNEPCos alleged relocation, moving the supply base out of Onne Free Zone will negatively affect the economy of Rivers State and the larger Niger Delta region, he added.

It will also put the means of livelihood of many families and the future of our children at risk as well as further swell the growing unemployment market in the Niger Delta region, he said.

The protesting youth later moved from the SNEPCo Supply Base to the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Onne Community, John Dennis Osaronu, to also lodge their complaint.

The paramount ruler commended the youth for their peaceful conduct, and called on SNEPCo to consider the plea from them and rescind its decision.

We appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari, Governor Nyesom Wike and other well-meaning Nigerians to stop this move by SNEPCo, he said.
Sanni Yusuf, a major general, on Tuesday formally took over as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division of the Nigerian Army in Lagos.

At a brief ceremony held at the Divisions Headquarters in Victoria Island, Lagos, Mr Yusufs predecessor, Enobong Udoh, a major general, handed over the divisions flag to the new GOC, after signing the handing and taking over notes.

The highlight of the occasion was the inspection of quarter guard where the old flag was lowered and the new one hoisted.

In his remarks, the outgoing GOC thanked President Muhammadu Buhari and the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, a lieutenant general, for the opportunity given to him to serve in the division.

I also want to thank my commanders, staff and officers of the division for working with me, he said.

Mr Udoh urged the officers of the division to give the new GOC the needed support.

Earlier, the new GOC said he would do everything within his powers to improve on what his predecessor did.

I am going to continue on what I have been doing. I took over from him in 6 Division and I enjoyed my stay because of a lot of things he has put in place security wise.

I did not have any issue in the six months I stayed in Port Harcourt.

To the officers, I will want you to extend the same cooperation you accorded to the outgoing GOC to me, he said.

He wished the outgoing GOC good health in the discharge of his duties as the Chief of Logistics, Army Headquarters, Abuja.

Until his posting to 81 Division, Mr Yusuf was the GOC 6 Division of the Nigerian Army.

(NAN)
The Police in Lagos said on Tuesday that they arrested 150 suspected cultists and kidnappers in the last one year in the Epe community.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Epe, Adeyeri Sunday, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in an interview at Epe.

Mr Sunday, a chief superintendent of police, said the arrests were made between July 2017 and July 2018.

He said the arrests were made in several locations in the locality, such as Okemagba area, Ita-opo, Poka, Temu, Papa, Noforija, T-Junction, Aiyetoro and Lagos road, to mention but a few.

These arrests were made in the suburbs of Epe and also within the town.

Most of the suspects were either members of the `Eiye, `Aye and the `Buccaneers confraternities.

Some kidnappers too were also arrested alongside the suspected cultists. The suspected cultists perpetrated their evil activities in the bush, where they also recruit and new members.

These unholy acts are usually carried out at midnight, between 11: 00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m.

The kidnappers were arrested as they disguised to carry out their unholy acts, he said.

The DPO, however, commended the unflinching support of Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode, the traditional rulers and other stakeholders in the community.

The stakeholders made our arrests easier as they supplied us with useful information that led to the hideouts of the suspected cultists and kidnappers.

I really appreciate their support because without that, it would not have been easy for us to effectively carry out our operations, he said.

Mr Sunday also commended the technical and professional support of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Imohimi Edgal.

He assured members of the public of safe business activities in Epe and its environs, saying that kidnappings and cult activities have been effectively tackled in the area.

(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.




Although 84 percent of workers say the age of their direct managers is not important as long as they are inspirational, 76 percent surveyed prefer their direct managers be the same age or older.

Younger workers apparently see the value that a more tenured manager can bring, as 92 percent of workers aged 25 to 34 agree they'd rather have an older boss.

The intergenerational communications barrier

Communication is where generational differences are most keenly felt:

Eighty-one percent of workers agree the primary difference between generations in the workplace is communication styles.

More than a third of workers (38%) admit they find it difficult to communicate with coworkers who are not in their own age group.

Men are nearly twice as likely as women to report difficulty communicating with coworkers outside of their generation (49% of men, versus 27% of women).

Tailoring feedback is a must

The majority of workers feel their managers are generally effective in managing and working alongside employees from different generations, but there may be room for improvement:

Eighty-three percent of workers say their direct managers are talented at working together with various generations.

Fifty-eight percent say their direct managers treat colleagues from various generations differently. Whether this is perceived as a positive thing or not varies from person to person, but it is clear that managers should tailor their communication styles to individual team members.

More workers prefer to connect with colleagues than their bosses on social media

Younger workers are particularly engaged with colleagues on social channels:

Fifty-four percent of employees connect with their colleagues on social media, while only 33 percent connect with their direct managers.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the numbers increase with younger generations: 75 percent of workers aged 18 to 24 report being connected with colleagues on social media compared to just 33 percent of workers aged 55 to 67.

"Part of the challenge of managing effectively is knowing how to relay your message, which requires understanding the individual communication styles of the people on your team and how they approach their work," said Jim Link, chief human resources officer for Randstad North America. "There are more generations in the workforce than ever before, which has resulted in a greater variety of expectations around workplace communication. People in different stages of their lives and careers are also motivated in different ways, and managers must work to tailor feedback to help individuals maximize their potential."

To learn best practices for managing a multigenerational workforce  and to learn what different generations want in the workforce  please visit managing a multigenerational workforce.



About the Randstad Workmonitor Survey

The Randstad Workmonitor was launched in the Netherlands in 2003 and now covers 34 countries around the world. The study encompasses Europe, Asia Pacific and the Americas. Published quarterly, Randstad Workmonitor highlights local and global trends in mobility  and makes them visible over time.

The study is conducted online among employees aged 1865 who work a minimum of 24 hours a week in paid (not self-employed) roles. The minimum sample size is 400 interviews per country. The Survey Sampling International (SSI) panel is used for sampling purposes. The second survey of 2018 was conducted April 23May 14, 2018.

About Randstad

Randstad North America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Randstad N.V., a 23.3 billion global provider of flexible work and human resources services. As a trusted human partner in the technology-driven world of talent, we combine the expertise and passion of our employees with some of the most innovative HR technologies on the market today to advance the careers and business success of our candidates and clients.



Randstad's North American operations comprise 5,700+ associates and a deployed workforce of more than 100,000 in the U.S. and Canada. In addition to staffing and recruitment, Randstad offers outsourcing, consulting and workforce management solutions for generalist and specialist disciplines, including technology, engineering, finance and accounting, clinical and non-clinical healthcare, human resources, legal, life sciences, manufacturing and logistics, office and administration and sales and marketing. Global concepts available to North American client companies include RPO, MSP, integrated talent solutions, payrolling and independent contractor management and career transition services. Learn more at www.randstadusa.com or www.randstad.ca.





SOURCE Randstad US

Related Links

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DALLAS, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- ACE Cash Express, Inc. announced that on August 13, 2018, it will provide financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2018 to TMI Trust Company, the trustee under the Indenture dated as of December 15, 2017 governing the Company's 12% Senior Secured Notes due 2022. The Company also announced it will host a conference call for Noteholders on Tuesday, August 14, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. CT to discuss the financial results.

Noteholders should contact David Sternblitz, Vice President, Treasurer of ACE Cash Express, Inc. to obtain access to the Company's financial statements and information concerning the conference call.

About ACE

ACE Cash Express, Inc. is a leading financial services provider serving consumers online and through a network of retail store locations. ACE provides a range of retail financial products and services including short-term consumer loans, check cashing, card services, money transfers, bill payments and money orders. ACE Cash Express, Inc. is one of the largest owners and operators of check cashing stores in the United States.

SOURCE ACE Cash Express, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.acecashexpress.com


SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Achronix Semiconductor Corporation , a leader in field programmable gate array (FPGA)-based hardware accelerator devices and embedded FPGA (eFPGA) intellectual property (IP), today announced availability of an optimized High-Level Synthesis (HLS) flow from its partner, Mentor, a Siemens business, for its FPGA technology products.

The integrated development environment enables designers to quickly go from C++ to FPGA using Mentor's Catapult HLS and Achronix's ACE design tools. Initially used for 5G wireless applications to reduce the overall development effort and improve quality of results (QoR), it is suitable for any design targeting Achronix technology.

"The combination of Mentor's powerful Catapult tools and Achronix's embedded FPGA technology offer a truly unique value proposition for companies that require high performance FPGA technology in their SoC that can be configured using a proven Cbased design flow," remarks Steve Mensor, Achronix's vice president of marketing. "This combined solution is a great testament of a close working relationship between the engineering groups at Mentor and Achronix. Our initial target was 5G wireless, but the unique capabilities of the overall solution will be valuable across many market segments that require the fastest development time."

"We are happy to welcome Achronix to the Mentor OpenDoor Program, and pleased to be an active member of the Achronix Partner Program. This open and collaborative partnership is very strategic and is already proving beneficial to our mutual customers," notes Ellie Burns, director of marketing, Calypto Systems Division at Mentor. "Achronix eFPGA offers a tremendous ability to adapt to late changing and new requirements in a field programmable SoC. Coupled with Catapult HLS and the verification speed of C++, chip designers can now easily go from algorithm change to new low-power, high-performance hardware in days rather than weeks or months."

The Catapult to Achronix Flow

The Catapult HLS to Speedcore embedded FPGA technology flow gives designers the ability to make algorithmic changes in late stages of IP development and to optimize the algorithm and the digital micro-architecture. The integrated verification environment allows reuse of the software tests for generated register transfer level (RTL) code, reducing the need for dedicated RTL test benches by more than 80%.

Achronix ACE design tools support Catapult's RTL constructs and primitives. Currently Achronix libraries for its Speedcore eFPGA products and for its Speedster standalone FPGAs are integrated into the flow.

The Achronix high-performance and high-density FPGA technology can be used for diverse hardware acceleration applications in data center compute, networking and storage; 5G wireless infrastructure, network acceleration; advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles.

Availability

Early versions of the design and development environment are available now.

About Achronix Semiconductor Corporation

Achronix is a privately held, fabless semiconductor corporation based in Santa Clara, California. The company developed its FPGA technology which is the basis of the Speedster22i FPGAs and Speedcore eFPGA technology. All Achronix FPGA products are supported by its ACE design tools that include integrated support for Synopsys Synplify Pro.

The company has sales offices and representatives in the United States, Europe, and China, and has a research and design office in Bangalore, India.

Follow Achronix:

Website: www.achronix.com

The Achronix Blog: https://www.achronix.com/blogs/

Twitter: @AchronixInc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/57668/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/achronix/

Achronix and Speedster are registered trademarks and Speedcore and Speedchip are trademarks of Achronix Semiconductor Corporation. All other brands, product names and marks are the property of their respective owners.

Contacts:

Alok Sanghavi Nanette Collins Achronix Semiconductor Corporation

408-889-4142

[email protected] Nanette V. Collins Marketing and Public Relations

617-437-1822

[email protected]

SOURCE Achronix

Related Links

https://www.achronix.com/


DETROIT, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Stratview Research announces the launch of a new market research report on Aircraft Cabin Upgrades Market by Aircraft Type (Commercial Aircraft, Regional Aircraft, General Aviation, and Military Aircraft), by Application Type (Interior Modifications, Cabin Connectivity, Painting, Airworthiness Directives, and Avionics), by End-User Type (Passenger Airlines, Freighter Companies, Leasing Companies, Corporate Jets, and VIP's & Military Derivatives), and by Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World), Trend, Forecast, Competitive Analysis, and Growth Opportunity: 2018-2023.

(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660595/Stratview_Research_Logo.jpg )

This market report, from Stratview Research, studies the aircraft cabin upgrades market over the trend period of 2012 to 2017 and forecast period of 2018 to 2023. The research report provides detailed insights on the market dynamics to enable informed business decision making and growth strategy formulation based on the opportunities present in the market.

Aircraft Cabin Upgrades Market: Highlights

As per Stratview Research, the global aircraft cabin upgrades market is projected to grow at a healthy rate over the next five years to reach US$ 8,926.2 million in 2023. Introduction of advanced aircraft such as A320neo, B777x, and B737 Max, increasing commercial aircraft fleet size, advancement in products/technologies to provide maximum comfort to passengers, and replacement trend from first-class seats to business-class are some of the major drivers of the market.

The research's findings suggest that commercial aircraft is likely to remain the growth engine of the market during the forecast period. Increasing cabin upgrades of A320 and B737, introduction of next-generation aircraft including B787 and A350XWB, and market entry of new players, such as COMAC and Irkut are the major factors that are proliferating the growth of cabin upgrades in the segment.

Based on the application type, interior modification is likely to remain the most dominant segment of the global aircraft cabin upgrades market over the next five years, driven by the demand in commercial aircraft. However, avionics segment is likely to witness the highest growth in the same period, driven by advancements in technology.

Register Here and Ask for a Free Sample on the Report

In terms of region, North America is projected to remain the largest market during the forecast period, driven by large aircraft fleet size and presence of major OEM and tier players in the region. Whereas, Asia-Pacific is likely to witness the highest growth in the same period, driven by a host of factors including increasing demand for commercial aircraft to support rising passenger traffic, opening of assembly plants of Boeing and Airbus in China, upcoming indigenous commercial and regional aircraft (COMAC C919 and Mitsubishi MRJ), and rising aircraft fleet size.

Key cabin interior upgrade companies are AAR Corp, Air France Industries, KLM Engineering & Maintenance, Boeing Global Services, Diehl Aviation Laupheim GmbH, Jet Aviation AG, Lufthansa Technik AG, SR Technics, and Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd (ST Engineering).

Report Features

This report provides market intelligence in the most comprehensive way. The report structure has been kept such that it offers maximum business value. It provides critical insights on the market dynamics and will enable strategic decision making for the existing market players as well as those willing to enter the market. The following are the key features of the report:

Market structure: Overview, industry life cycle analysis, supply chain analysis.

Market environment analysis: Growth drivers and constraints, Porter's five forces analysis, SWOT analysis.

Market trend and forecast analysis.

Market segment trend and forecast.

Competitive landscape and dynamics: Market share, product portfolio, product launches, etc.

Attractive market segments and associated growth opportunities.

Emerging trends.

Strategic growth opportunities for the existing and new players.

Key success factors

This report studies cabin upgrades market in the global aircraft industry and has segmented the market in four ways, keeping in mind the interest of all the stakeholders across the value chain. Following are the four ways in which the market is segmented:

Aircraft Cabin Upgrades Market, By Aircraft Type

Commercial Aircraft (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Regional Aircraft (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

General Aviation (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Military Aircraft (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Aircraft Cabin Upgrades Market, By Application Type

Interior Modifications (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Cabin Connectivity (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Painting (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Airworthiness Directives (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Avionics (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Aircraft Cabin Upgrades Market, By End-User Type

Passenger Airlines (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Freighter Companies (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Leasing Companies (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Corporate Jets (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

VIP's & Military Derivatives (Regional Analysis: North America , Europe , Asia-Pacific , and RoW)

Aircraft Cabin Upgrades Market, By Region

North America (Country Analysis: The USA , Canada , and Mexico )

Europe (Country Analysis: France , Germany , the UK, Spain , Russia , and Rest of Europe )

Asia-Pacific (Country Analysis: China , Japan , India , and Rest of Asia-Pacific )

Rest of the World (Sub-Region Analysis: Latin America , the Middle East , and Others)

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NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Following President Donald J. Trump's Executive Order yesterday, which restored major sanctions on Iran, AJC CEO David Harris issued the following statement:

We support the U.S. decision.

Iran is the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism. It has propped up the Syrian regime and participated in crimes against humanity in Syria. It continues to arm Hezbollah and support Hamas. It calls for Israel's destruction and seeks ways to achieve that goal. It undermines Yemen and threatens our Gulf Arab partners. It plots attacks in Europe. It tramples on the human rights of its own people, beginning with women, LGBTQ individuals, and religious minorities. The list goes on and on.

And all of this accelerated after the JCPOA was signed in 2015. As a reminder, and we heard it with our own ears from top American and European officials at the time, the nuclear deal was meant not only to delay Iran's nuclear program, but also to strengthen the "moderate" faction in Tehran and allow it to devote greater attention to the delayed needs of the Iranian people. Alas, those rosy predictions have not materialized.

As AJC has said before, we earnestly wish that the U.S. and our European allies could have forged a common front in dealing with Iran at this time. For whatever reasons, it did not happen. We regret that, all the more so because Iran will surely seek to exploit the very obvious transatlantic differences.

Iran must know that Washington is determined to send a powerful message that its aggressive, bellicose behavior must change dramatically, or else it faces serious economic consequences. Yesterday's U.S. decision should make that abundantly clear.

SOURCE American Jewish Committee
HOUSTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In the wake of the U.S. Tax Court's decision in Reserve Mechanical v. Commissioner, alliantgroup will be hosting a free webinar today at 12:00 pm CT to discuss the long-term implications of the ruling on the captive insurance industry. This webinar will qualify attendees for 1 hour of CPE (Continuing Professional Education) credit.

The presentation, "Judicial Action: New Tax Court Ruling Affects the Future of Captives," will be co-hosted by former IRS Acting Commissioner and alliantgroup National Director of Tax Steven Miller, alliantgroup Managing Director of Tax Controversy John Dies and alliantgroup Senior Associate Attorney Meeren Amin.

Expanding upon last year's ruling in Avrahami v. Commissioner, the U.S. Tax Court's decision in the Reserve Mechanical case mirrors much of the precedent set in Avrahami, but expands on a number of items not addressed in last year's pivotal court ruling. During the webinar, our experts at alliantNational, alliantgroup's Washington national office, will cover what is happening in the micro-captive insurance space with a specific focus on how Reserve Mechanical's findings will influence the IRS and the future of the industry. Additionally, the alliantNational team will discuss the steps that those involved in the micro-captive insurance space should be taking to ensure future compliance.

"The Reserve Mechanical case addresses a number of items not discussed in last year's Avrahami ruling, and it is of the utmost importance for our clients and partners to remain up to speed on the most current precedent," said alliantgroup CEO Dhaval Jadav. "I encourage our CPA partners, micro-captive insurance managers and agents and anyone involved in this space to attend this webinar. My colleagues Steven Miller, John Dies and the rest of our alliantNational office are among the foremost experts in this area."

Click here to register for the webinar.

alliantgroup's mission is one of education and awarenesswe exist to help industry organizations, businesses and the accounting firms that advise them to take full advantage of all federal and state tax credits, incentives and deductions available. These powerful incentive programs are legislated by the government to help businesses grow and remain competitive locally as well as abroad. We are proud to have helped over 12,000 businesses claim more than $6 billion in tax incentives. alliantgroup's international headquarters is in Houston, Texas, with offices across the country and internationally including New York, Boston, Chicago, Orange County, Sacramento, Indianapolis, Washington, D.C. and London and Bristol in the U.K. For more information on alliantgroup, please follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

SOURCE alliantgroup

Related Links

http://www.alliantgroup.com


ROHNERT PARK, Calif., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Discussing debt has become a bigger taboo for Americans than talking about religion or politics, despite most of the population having some form of it. America's student loan debt alone is astounding: 45 million borrowers with $1.5 trillion owed. Even with many people being in the same boat, 55 percent of student borrowers say they feel self-conscious or embarrassed by their student loan balance. Ameritech Financial, a document preparation company that helps student loan borrowers with federal student loan repayment plan applications, acknowledges the importance of discussing student loan debt for financial wellness and mental health.

"Student loan debt isn't uncommon, nor is it something that people should feel ashamed of," said Tom Knickerbocker, executive vice president of Ameritech Financial. "A lot of people seem to think it reflects poorly on them somehow."

In our society, money is often linked to success and impacts how people view themselves and others. Some graduates may feel ashamed because they end up in a high-paying field after graduation, but their debt severely limits their ability to get ahead. Others may be unable to find a job or find themselves still living at home with their parents. On average, a college graduate under 35 will put 20 percent of every paycheck toward their loan repayment. With such a large chunk of their income going toward debt, many student borrowers are putting off important life decisions like getting married, starting a family or buying a home. This can be a source of shame, as well. Some student borrowers may compare their lives to others and feel ashamed that they aren't able to celebrate important milestones like some of their peers. Many people say they'd rather not think about their student debt, but research has shown that this can lead to poor financial decisions and mental health issues. Research has also found that those who have trouble paying off student loan debt are twice as likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, with depression increasing 14 percent for every 10 percent debt increase.

"Talking about student debt with others is a difficult conversation," stated Knickerbocker. "But it can be an important part of acknowledging it to yourself and a stepping stone towards getting your debt under control. It also prevents feeling like you have to deal with it alone."

According to wealth psychology expert Kathleen Burns Kingsbury, 44 percent of Americans say personal finances are the most difficult subject to discuss with friends and loved ones. Having an open, honest conversation about student debt can offer a support system and allow for better financial decisions. If the borrower hasn't talked about their debt with their partner before, this can be a tough conversation to have. Prolonging the subject can cause more conflict in the future and can lead to feelings of isolation. Debt avoidance can put a strain on relationships, causing stress, arguments, depression and anxiety. Partners who are unaware of their significant other's debt may also see it as a large breach of trust as time goes on.

In addition to interpersonal problems, avoidance of debt can keep borrowers from looking into repayment options, such as income-driven repayment plans (IDRs). An IDR may allow student debtors to reduce their monthly payment relative to income and family size so they can focus on other areas of their life. With lower monthly payments, borrowers may hopefully start to feel less financial stress.

"At Ameritech Financial, we want our clients to realize that they have options and aren't alone," said Knickerbocker. "Personal relationships, wellness and mental health shouldn't have to suffer due to student debt. We believe that federal IDRs have the potential to reduce feelings of shame and we are proud to offer document preparation services that can make the application process easy."

About Ameritech Financial

Ameritech Financial is a private company located in Rohnert Park, California. Ameritech Financial has already helped thousands of consumers with financial analysis and student loan document preparation to apply for federal student loan repayment programs offered through the Department of Education.

Each Ameritech Financial telephone representative has received the Certified Student Loan Professional certification through the International Association of Professional Debt Arbitrators (IAPDA).

Ameritech Financial prides itself on its exceptional customer service.

Ameritech Financial Newsroom

Contact

To learn more about Ameritech Financial, please contact:

Ameritech Financial

5789 State Farm Drive #265

Rohnert Park, CA 94928

1-800-792-8621

[email protected]

Related Images

woman-looking-ashamed-and-worried.jpg

Woman Looking Ashamed and Worried

Credit: PathDoc/Bigstock

image2.png

Related Links

Ameritech Financial home page

Related Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRza8MbLvuM

SOURCE Ameritech Financial
In her previous role as Vice President, Clinical Affairs, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA), Clark led the design and launch of the wholly owned subsidiary Blue Cross Blue Shield Institute, dedicated to creating a sustainable business model to address the social determinants of health in the private payer market. Clark led efforts for many of the Institute's most recognizable products, including the development of its flagship geospatial platform technology, the Community Health Management Hub (CHM Hub), which identifies the social, economic, and environmental barriers to health. Clark managed some of the BCBSA and the Institute's often mentioned innovations, including the transportation services with Lyft that addressed the needs of BCBS members living in transportation and pharmacy deserts.

"Teresa's wealth of health plan, innovation, business, and policy experience will be immensely valuable as we develop and scale new offerings that address social determinants of health," said Brenda Schmidt, CEO at Solera Health. "Teresa's track record of innovation and her experience addressing social determinants of health will be critical as we expand Solera's curated network model, which has shown its effectiveness in helping scale the diabetes prevention program nationwide. Clark will be critical in supporting Solera's strategic focus on innovation to address the highly fragmented community space."

Clark studied computer science and neuroscience at the University of California, San Diego before moving on to study epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, and finance at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business.

"I am honored and delighted to join Solera, the nation's premier platform for individuals to manage their health and wellbeing once they leave the doctor's office," said Clark. "I look forward to helping build innovative offerings and personalized experiences to patients, providers, and payers in every community Solera serves."

About Solera Health

Solera Health is an integrated benefit network that connects patients, payers, and physicians with community organizations and digital therapeutics providers, simply and securely. Solera helps consolidate highly fragmented programs and services into one integrated network, allowing health plans and medical providers to increase consumer participation while lowering associated costs. Solera proactively identifies the "best fit" program provider based on each individual's unique needs and preferences, which has proven to have a significant impact on improved patient outcomes at a fraction of the cost of traditional medical care. For more information, visit Solera Health at www.soleranetwork.com, call 800-858-1714 or follow us on Twitter @SoleraNetwork or LinkedIn.

SOURCE Solera Health

Related Links

http://www.soleranetwork.com


DALLAS, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- BenefitMall, the leading provider of employee benefits and payroll services, announces Yun Chalif as its new Market Director for the North Texas sales team. Chalif joined BenefitMall in 2006 at the Dallas office and has served the company and the broker community in several different roles in the last 12 years.

"I am pleased to announce that Yun Chalif has been selected to be the Market Director for our North Texas sales team," said Joe Bahun, regional vice president for BenefitMall's Central Region. "Yun has been with BenefitMall for over a decade, and we are pleased to see her growth and development within the company."

Prior to working at BenefitMall, Chalif spent 15 years in the employee benefits industry, serving in positions in both the carrier and brokerage firm sides of the business. Since joining BenefitMall's team, Chalif has served as a Senior Benefit Sale Representative and a Senior Broker Sales Executive. Chalif's history of consistent advancement has prepared her for success as Market Director.

Chalif will be based out of the Dallas office and will report directly to Bahun.

About BenefitMall

Headquartered in Dallas, BenefitMall partners with a network of 20,000 Brokers and CPAs to deliver employee benefits and payroll services to more than 200,000 small and medium-sized businesses. By combining payroll and benefits, BenefitMall empowers Trusted Advisors to develop the best employee programs while maintaining compliance with government regulations and Health Care Reform.

Owned by Management and The Carlyle Group, BenefitMall also operates HealthCareExchange.com, the leading online community for information regarding the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. More information is available at www.benefitmall.com.

SOURCE BenefitMall

Related Links

http://www.benefitmall.com


The Los Angeles County Business Federation (BizFed) has teamed up with Chairman's Circle member Optimum Seismic Inc. on an informative workshop, "Risks of Earthquakes to Small Business," featuring business leaders, building and legal experts addressing the many risks inherent in earthquakes and the benefits of identifying and retrofitting structures that are vulnerable to collapse during seismic activity.

What: Risks of Earthquakes to Small Business

When: 9 a.m. to noon, Wednesday, Aug. 8

Where: Cal State Northridge, Delmar T. Oviatt Library, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge, CA 91330

91330 RSVP call 323-OPTIMUM

"Resiliency is so important to the Los Angeles economy and to California economy. We know an earthquake is coming -it's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when," said BizFed COO, Elizabeth Shapiro. "We are so proud to partner with Optimum Seismic to deliver this important education to business leaders of from across LA. Building resiliency in our community is not just about safety - it is smart, responsible, and good business."

"There has been a lot of interest in being good to the environment, in green design that has had a low impact on the environment sustainability; but, sustainability is really about the environment having a low impact on us as well and that is resilience." USRC, Executive Director, Evan Reis.

Optimum Seismic Principal Ali Sahabi said the resiliency of L.A. communities is one of the region's most pressing issues.

"The first step to solving a problem is to define it," Sahabi said. "By identifying our vulnerable buildings which are occupied by many of our small businesses, we can help them quantify the risks associated with a specific property. This should be an important priority for all leaders in business and government, as small businesses make up 92 percent of all California economy."

About BizFed Los Angeles

With more than 170 business organizations representing 390,000 employers with 3.5 million employees throughout L.A. County, BizFed is a massive, diverse grassroots alliance that advocates for policies and projects that strengthen the regional economy. Leveraging power in numbers, BizFed explores all sides of critical issues and takes action to make a difference for business growth, job creation, and economic vitality in Southern California.

About Optimum Seismic

Optimum Seismic, Inc., is Southern California's leading retrofit company for earthquake retrofit engineering and construction, specializing in multifamily and commercial buildings. Since 1984, the team at Optimum Seismic has completed more than 2,500 retrofits throughout the state of California. For information, visit http://www.optimumseismic.com.

CONTACT:

Andrea Aguilar

Optimum Seismic Inc.

323-605-0312

[email protected]

Elizabeth Shapiro

BizFed

323-889-4348

SOURCE Optimum Seismic Inc.

Related Links

http://www.optimumseismic.com


BOISE, Idaho, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Stadiums and other open-air venues are particularly vulnerable to the growing risk posed by the proliferation of consumer drones and Black Sage is addressing this issue by offering a new service. Commercially available drones have quite literally added a new dimension to security threats not only in war zones, but also at large public gatherings here in the U.S. Operators with nefarious intentions can use them for drone-based terror attacks, unlicensed recording and transmission, or to protest and cause distractions. Even well-intentioned drone operators can cause injury and economic loss when they lose control or accidentally crash into a crowd.

By offering temporary, or one-time counter drone protection as a service, Black Sage is providing stadiums and venues a relatively low-cost solution for specific high-risk events. The Black Sage team will work directly with security personnel and local law enforcement to ensure safety and security at any event.

"Black Sage has worked with military and government customers over the past several years to protect against the threat of drones at fixed sites. We are proud to now offer our capabilities as a service that allows commercial venues to have protection without the cost associated with purchasing and maintaining permanent installations," said Black Sage Technologies Managing Partner Ross Lamm, Ph.D.

The Black Sage counter drone system provides early detection to allow law enforcement to take action even before the drone is airborne, AI classification to reduce false alarms, operator location to assist law enforcement in apprehension, and forensic data to ensure prosecution is all provided by the service.

While this new service allows stadiums to add this extra level of security for specific, high-risk events, Black Sage still offers permanent or semi-permanent solutions for stadiums and venues seeking long-term counter drone protection. Permanent installations are easily integrated into existing security systems and include hands-on training and technical support.

About Black Sage:

Black Sage is a privately held defense technology integrator founded in Boise, Idaho in 2014 by Managing Partners Ross Lamm, Ph.D. and Dave Romero. With a team of experts, the company has provided solutions to customers all around the world. For additional information about Black Sage, visit blacksagetech.com.

SOURCE Black Sage

Related Links

https://www.blacksagetech.com


NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. (NYSE American: BRG) ("the Company"), an owner of highly amenitized multi-family apartment communities, announced today its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2018.

Second Quarter Highlights

Total revenues grew 57% to $45.0 million for the quarter from $28.7 million in the prior year period.

for the quarter from in the prior year period. Net loss attributable to common stockholders for the second quarter of 2018 was ($0.44) per share, as compared to net income attributable to common stockholders of $0.67 per share in the prior year period. The prior year period included $1.26 per share of gains on the sale of real estate investments and joint venture interests.

per share, as compared to net income attributable to common stockholders of per share in the prior year period. The prior year period included per share of gains on the sale of real estate investments and joint venture interests. Property Net Operating Income ("NOI") grew 49% to $22.5 million , from $15.0 million in the prior year period.

, from in the prior year period. Same store Revenue and NOI increased 3.6% and 3.9% respectively, as compared to the prior year period.

Adjusted funds from operations attributable to common shares and units ("AFFO") grew 56% to $5.3 million , from $3.4 million in the prior year period. AFFO per share is $0.17 for the quarter as compared to $0.13 in second quarter 2017.

, from in the prior year period. AFFO per share is for the quarter as compared to in second quarter 2017. Consolidated real estate investments, at cost, increased approximately $151.5 million to $1.6 billion , from year end.

to , from year end. The Company invested approximately $82 million in two multifamily communities totaling 502 units and $9 million to buy out minority ownership interests in two assets.

in two multifamily communities totaling 502 units and to buy out minority ownership interests in two assets. The Company completed 292 value-add unit upgrades at an average cost of $4,708 per unit, and leased 269 of them during the second quarter. Year-to-date, the Company has completed 462 upgrades at an average cost of $4,373 per unit. The Company expects to complete between 900 and 1,200 unit renovations in 2018.

per unit, and leased 269 of them during the second quarter. Year-to-date, the Company has completed 462 upgrades at an average cost of per unit. The Company expects to complete between 900 and 1,200 unit renovations in 2018. Since inception, the Company has completed 942 value-add unit upgrades and achieved a $107 average monthly rental increase per unit, equating to a 27.4% ROI on all unit upgrades leased as of June 30, 2018 .

average monthly rental increase per unit, equating to a 27.4% ROI on all unit upgrades leased as of . Repurchased 107,040 shares of stock during the second quarter at an average price of $8.96 per share, for a total cost of approximately $1.0 million .

per share, for a total cost of approximately . The Company increased the low end of its full year 2018 AFFO guidance from $0.65 to $0.66 per share and is affirming the top end of the range at $0.70 per share.

"We continued to produce strong operating results in the second quarter with property NOI up 49%, same store NOI that increased 3.9% and AFFO which again for the second quarter in a row exceeded our dividend payment," said Ramin Kamfar, Company Chairman and CEO. "The robust first half performance has allowed us to increase the bottom end of our 2018 AFFO guidance range. We remain focused on ongoing operational improvements and creating value through our value-add unit upgrade programs. Furthermore, with access to attractive capital with our Series B redeemable preferred stock issuance, we will selectively pursue opportunities to accretively grow our portfolio of highly amenitized communities in targeted growth markets."

Financial Results

Net loss attributable to common stockholders for the second quarter of 2018 was $10.2 million, compared to a net income of $17.6 million in the prior year period. The prior year period included approximately $32.8 million of gains on sale of real estate investments and joint venture interests. Net loss attributable to common stockholders included non-cash expenses of $14.2 million or $0.46 per share in the second quarter of 2018 compared to $17.1 million or $0.66 per share for the prior year period.

AFFO for the second quarter of 2018 was $5.3 million, or $0.17 per diluted share, compared to $3.4 million, or $0.13 per diluted share in the prior year period. AFFO was primarily driven by growth in property NOI of $7.4 million and interest income of $3.5 million arising from significant investment activity. This was primarily offset by a year-over-year rise in interest expense of $4.4 million, general and administrative expenses of $2.0 million, and preferred stock dividends of $2.3 million.

Total Portfolio Performance

$ In thousands, except average rental rates 2Q18

2Q17

Variance

YTD18

YTD17

Variance

Total Revenues (1) $ 44,959

$ 28,666

56.8%

$ 86,828

$ 56,849

52.7%

Property Operating Expenses $ 16,874

$ 11,527

46.4%

$ 32,533

$ 22,146

46.9%

NOI $ 22,450

$ 15,042

49.2%

$ 43,465

$ 31,083

39.8%

Operating Margin 57.1%

56.6%

50 bps 57.2%

58.4%

(120) bps Occupancy Percentage 93.9%

94.3%

(40) bps 93.7%

94.4%

(40) bps Average Rental Rate $ 1,239

$ 1,208

2.6%

$ 1,233

$ 1,182

4.3%

(1)Including interest income from related parties

























For the second quarter of 2018, property revenues increased by 48.0% compared to the same prior year period primarily attributable to the increased size of the portfolio. Total portfolio NOI was $22.5 million, an increase of $7.4 million, or 49.2%, compared to the same period in the prior year.

Property NOI margins were 57.1% of revenue for the quarter, compared to 56.6% of revenue in the prior year quarter. Property operating expenses were up primarily due to the increased size of the portfolio.

Same Store Portfolio Performance

$ In thousands, except average rental rates 2Q18

2Q17

Variance

YTD18

YTD17

Variance

Revenues $ 23,413

$ 22,591

3.6%

$ 41,707

$ 39,910

4.5%

Property Operating Expenses $ 9,933

$ 9,617

3.3%

$ 17,629

$ 16,669

5.8%

NOI $ 13,480

$ 12,974

3.9%

$ 24,078

$ 23,241

3.6%

Operating Margin 57.6%

57.4%

20 bps 57.7%

58.2%

(50) bps Occupancy Percentage 94.3%

94.8%

(50) bps 94.0%

94.4%

(40) bps Average Rental Rate $ 1,271

$ 1,220

4.2%

$ 1,284

$ 1,228

4.6%



The Company's same store portfolio for the quarter ended June 30, 2018 included 18 properties. For the second quarter of 2018, same store NOI was $13.5 million, an increase of $0.5 million, or 3.9%, compared to the same period in the prior year. Same store property revenues increased by 3.6% compared to the same prior year period, primarily attributable to a 4.2% increase in average rental rates, offset by average occupancy decreasing 50 basis points to 94.3%. In addition, the implementation of trash valet services at eleven properties and a general increase in resident fees increased revenues by $0.2 million. Same store expenses increased $0.3 million due implementation of trash valet services and the timing of seasonal maintenance.

Second Quarter Acquisition Activity

On April 26, 2018 , invested approximately $9 million to increase our ownership stake to 100% in each of our ARIUM Gulfshore and ARIUM at Palmer Ranch properties.

, invested approximately to increase our ownership stake to 100% in each of our ARIUM Gulfshore and ARIUM at Palmer Ranch properties. On May 1, 2018 , acquired a 100% interest in a 264-unit apartment community located in Daytona Beach, Florida , known as Sands Parc. The total purchase price was approximately $46.2 million , funded in part by the Company's Senior Credit Facility.

, acquired a 100% interest in a 264-unit apartment community located in , known as Sands Parc. The total purchase price was approximately , funded in part by the Company's Senior Credit Facility. On June 14, 2018 , acquired an 80% indirect interest in a 238-unit apartment community located in Lake Jackson, Texas , known as Plantation Park. The total purchase price was approximately $35.6 million , funded in part by a $26.6 million mortgage loan secured by the Plantation Park property.

Balance Sheet

During the second quarter, the Company raised gross proceeds of approximately $31.6 million through the issuance of 31,576 shares of Series B preferred stock with associated warrants at $1,000 per unit.

As of June 30, 2018, the Company had $25.4 million of unrestricted cash on its balance sheet, approximately $51.5 million available among its revolving credit facilities, and $1.1 billion of debt outstanding.

Dividend Details

The Board of Directors authorized, and the Company declared, a quarterly dividend for the second quarter of 2018 equal to a quarterly rate of $0.1625 per share on its Class A common stock, payable to the stockholders of record as of June 25, 2018, which was paid in cash on July 5, 2018. A portion of each dividend may constitute a return of capital for tax purposes. There is no assurance that we will continue to declare dividends or at this rate.

On July 10, 2018, the Board of Directors authorized, and the Company declared, a monthly dividend of $5.00 per share of Series B preferred stock, payable to the stockholders of record as of July 25, 2018, which was paid in cash on August 3, 2018, and as of August 24, 2018, and September 25, 2018, which will be paid in cash on September 5, 2018 and October 5, 2018, respectively.

2018 Guidance

Based on the Company's current outlook and market conditions, the Company is increasing the bottom end of the 2018 AFFO guidance from $0.65 to $0.66 per share and is reaffirming the top end of the range at $0.70 per share. For additional guidance details, please see page 30 of Company's Second Quarter 2018 Earnings Supplement available under Investor Relations on the Company's website (www.bluerockresidential.com). Subsequent to issuing 2018 guidance in February 2018, the Company revised its presentation of AFFO attributable to common stockholders to reflect AFFO attributable to common shares and units. The estimated weighted average diluted shares and units outstanding used to calculate AFFO per share now includes noncontrolling interests  operating partnership units. As the Company's presentation now also includes the impact of AFFO attributable to operating partnership units, and as shares and units are treated on a one-for-one basis, there is no change to projected AFFO per share for purposes of 2018 AFFO guidance.

Conference Call

All interested parties can listen to the live conference call at 11:00 AM ET on Tuesday, August 7, 2018 by dialing +1 (866) 843-0890 within the U.S., or +1 (412) 317-6597, and requesting the "Bluerock Residential Conference."

For those who are not available to listen to the live call, the conference call will be available for replay on the Company's website two hours after the call concludes, and will remain available until September 7, 2018 at http://services.choruscall.com/links/brg180807.html, as well as by dialing +1 (877) 344-7529 in the U.S., or +1 (412) 317-0088 internationally, and requesting conference number 10122487.

The full text of this Earnings Release and additional Supplemental Information is available in the Investor Relations section on the Company's website at http://www.bluerockresidential.com.

About Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc.

Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. (NYSE American: BRG) is a real estate investment trust that focuses on developing and acquiring a diversified portfolio of institutional-quality highly amenitized live/work/play apartment communities in demographically attractive knowledge economy growth markets to appeal to the renter by choice. The Company's objective is to generate value through off-market/relationship-based transactions and, at the asset level, through value add improvements to properties and operations. The Company is included in the Russell 2000 and Russell 3000 Indexes. BRG has elected to be taxed as a real estate investment trust (REIT) for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.bluerockresidential.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements are based upon the Company's present expectations, but these statements are not guaranteed to occur. Furthermore, the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, of new information, data or methods, future events or other changes. Investors should not place undue reliance upon forward-looking statements. For further discussion of the factors that could affect outcomes, please refer to the risk factors set forth in Item 1A of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed by the Company with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on March 13, 2018, and subsequent filings by the Company with the SEC. We claim the safe harbor protection for forward looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

Portfolio Summary

The following is a summary of our operating real estate and mezzanine/preferred investments as of June 30, 2018:

Consolidated Operating

Properties

Location

Number of Units

Year

Built/ Renovated (1)

Ownership Interest

Average Rent (2)

%

Occupied (3) ARIUM at Palmer Ranch

Sarasota, FL

320

2016

100%

$ 1,291

96% ARIUM Glenridge

Atlanta, GA

480

1990

90%

1,150

93% ARIUM Grandewood

Orlando, FL

306

2005

100%

1,346

95% ARIUM Gulfshore

Naples, FL

368

2016

100%

1,296

92% ARIUM Hunter's Creek

Orlando, FL

532

1999

100%

1,353

93% ARIUM Metrowest

Orlando, FL

510

2001

100%

1,328

93% ARIUM Palms

Orlando, FL

252

2008

95%

1,307

94% ARIUM Pine Lakes

Port St. Lucie, FL

320

2003

85%

1,229

94% ARIUM Westside

Atlanta, GA

336

2008

90%

1,490

93% Ashton Reserve

Charlotte, NC

473

2015

100%

1,073

91% Citrus Tower

Orlando, FL

336

2006

97%

1,257

95% Enders Place at Baldwin Park

Orlando, FL

220

2003

92%

1,734

95% James on South First

Austin, TX

250

2016

90%

1,160

98% Marquis at Crown Ridge

San Antonio, TX

352

2009

90%

935

93% Marquis at Stone Oak

San Antonio, TX

335

2007

90%

1,385

93% Marquis at The Cascades

Tyler, TX

582

2009

90%

1,069

95% Marquis at TPC

San Antonio, TX

139

2008

90%

1,461

96% Outlook at Greystone

Birmingham, AL

300

2007

100%

936

88% Park & Kingston

Charlotte, NC

168

2015

100%

1,218

96% Plantation Park

Lake Jackson, TX

238

2016

80%

1,428

92% Preston View

Morrisville, NC

382

2000

100%

1,072

97% Roswell City Walk

Roswell, GA

320

2015

98%

1,513

97% Sands Parc

Daytona Beach, FL

264

2017

100%

1,267

94% Sorrel

Frisco, TX

352

2015

95%

1,252

91% Sovereign

Fort Worth, TX

322

2015

95%

1,320

94% The Brodie

Austin, TX

324

2001

93%

1,105

98% The Links at Plum Creek

Castle Rock, CO

264

2000

88%

1,362

94% The Mills

Greenville, SC

304

2013

100%

999

97% The Preserve at Henderson Beach

Destin, FL

340

2009

100%

1,306

97% Villages at Cypress Creek

Houston, TX

384

2001

80%

1,079

97% Wesley Village

Charlotte, NC

301

2010

100%

1,296

95% Consolidated Operating Properties Subtotal/Average

10,374









$ 1,239

94%

























Mezzanine/Preferred

Investments

Location

Planned Number of Units









Pro Forma

Average

Rent (4)





Alexan CityCentre

Houston, TX

340









$ 2,144





Alexan Southside Place

Houston, TX

270









2,012





Arlo, formerly West Morehead

Charlotte, NC

286









1,507





Cade Boca Raton, formerly APOK Townhomes

Boca Raton, FL

90









2,549





Domain at The One Forty, formerly Domain

Garland, TX

299









1,469





Flagler Village

Fort Lauderdale, FL

385









2,352





Helios

Atlanta, GA

282









1,486





Leigh House, formerly Lake Boone Trail

Raleigh, NC

245









1,271





Novel Perimeter, formerly Crescent Perimeter

Atlanta, GA

320









1,749





Vickers Historic Roswell, formerly Vickers Village

Roswell, GA

79









3,176





Whetstone

Durham, NC

204









1,300 (2)



Mezzanine and Preferred Investments Subtotal/Average

2,800









$ 1,816

































Portfolio Properties Total/Average

13,174









$ 1,365







(1) Represents date of last significant renovation or year built if there were no renovations. (2) Represents the average effective monthly rent per occupied unit for the three months ended June 30, 2018. (3) Percent occupied is calculated as (i) the number of units occupied as of June 30, 2018, divided by (ii) total number of units, expressed as a percentage. (4) Alexan CityCentre, Alexan Southside Place, Helios, and Leigh House are preferred equity investments with an option to convert into partial ownership upon stabilization. Cade Boca Raton, Novel Perimeter, Domain at The One Forty, Flagler Village, Vickers Historic Roswell, and Arlo are mezzanine loan investments. Additionally, Cade Boca Raton, Domain at The One Forty, and Arlo have an option to purchase an indirect property interest upon maturity. Whetstone is currently a preferred equity investment providing a stated investment return. Pro forma average rent represents the average pro forma effective monthly rent per occupied unit for all expected occupied units upon stabilization.

Consolidated Statement of Operations For the Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 and 2017 (Unaudited and dollars in thousands except for share and per share data)





Three Months Ended



Six Months Ended





June 30,



June 30,





2018



2017



2018



2017

Revenues































Net rental income

$ 34,719



$ 23,570



$ 67,383



$ 47,412

Other property revenues



4,605





2,999





8,615





5,817

Interest income from related parties



5,635





2,097





10,830





3,620

Total revenues



44,959





28,666





86,828





56,849

Expenses































Property operating



16,874





11,527





32,533





22,146

Property management fees



1,074





737





2,067





1,469

General and administrative



4,528





1,696





9,197





3,146

Management fees









6,163











8,931

Acquisition and pursuit costs



28





18





71





3,200

Management internalization









340











820

Weather-related losses, net















168







Depreciation and amortization



14,819





10,387





30,460





21,331

Total expenses



37,323





30,868





74,496





61,043

Operating loss



7,636





(2,202)





12,332





(4,194)

Other income (expense)































Other income









17











17

Preferred returns and equity in income of unconsolidated real estate

joint ventures



2,626





2,605





5,088





5,177

Gain on sale of real estate investments









33,574











50,040

Gain on sale of real estate joint venture interest









10,238











10,238

Loss on early extinguishment of debt



(653)





(1,639)





(653)





(1,639)

Interest expense, net



(13,041)





(7,825)





(23,158)





(14,943)

Total other (expense) income



(11,068)





36,970





(18,723)





48,890

Net (loss) income



(3,432)





34,768





(6,391)





44,696

Preferred stock dividends



(8,643)





(6,381)





(16,890)





(12,233)

Preferred stock accretion



(1,400)





(647)





(2,510)





(984)

Net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests































Operating partnership units



(3,010)





186





(5,685)





129

Partially owned properties



(253)





9,985





(468)





18,771

Net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests



(3,263)





10,171





(6,153)





18,900

Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders

$ (10,212)



$ 17,569



$ (19,638)



$ 12,579



































Net (loss) income per common share - Basic

$ (0.44)



$ 0.67



$ (0.83)



$ 0.49



































Net (loss) income per common share  Diluted

$ (0.44)



$ 0.67



$ (0.83)



$ 0.49



































Weighted average basic common shares outstanding



23,800,770





26,075,911





23,971,129





25,535,178

Weighted average diluted common shares outstanding



23,800,770





26,076,572





23,971,129





25,535,839



Consolidated Balance Sheets Second Quarter 2018 (Unaudited and dollars in thousands except for share and per share amounts)





June 30,

2018



December 31,

2017

ASSETS















Net Real Estate Investments















Land

$ 176,865



$ 169,135

Buildings and improvements



1,382,353





1,244,193

Furniture, fixtures and equipment



44,802





38,446

Construction in progress



261





985

Total Gross Real Estate Investments



1,604,281





1,452,759

Accumulated depreciation



(80,104)





(55,177)

Total Net Real Estate Investments



1,524,177





1,397,582

Cash and cash equivalents



25,411





35,015

Restricted cash



29,775





29,575

Notes and accrued interest receivable from related parties



162,971





140,903

Due from affiliates



2,537





2,003

Accounts receivable, prepaid and other assets



14,358





9,689

Preferred equity investments and investments in unconsolidated real estate joint ventures



77,061





71,145

In-place lease intangible assets, net



1,875





4,635

Total Assets

$ 1,838,165



$ 1,690,547



















LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE PREFERRED STOCK AND EQUITY















Mortgages payable

$ 1,075,799



$ 939,494

Revolving credit facilities



68,209





67,670

Accounts payable



1,071





1,652

Other accrued liabilities



27,590





22,952

Due to affiliates



815





1,575

Distributions payable



11,690





14,287

Total Liabilities



1,185,174





1,047,630

8.250% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, liquidation preference $25.00 per share,

10,875,000 shares authorized; and 5,721,460 issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2018 and December

31, 2017



139,137





138,801



6.000% Series B Redeemable Preferred Stock, liquidation preference $1,000 per share, 725,000 shares authorized; 233,417 and 184,130 issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively



206,878





161,742



7.625% Series C Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock, liquidation preference $25.00 per share,

4,000,000 shares authorized; and 2,323,750 issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2018 and December 31,

2017



56,326





56,196





















Equity















Stockholders' Equity















Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 230,400,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding











7.125% Series D Cumulative Preferred Stock, liquidation preference $25.00 per share, 4,000,000 shares authorized; 2,850,602 issued and outstanding at June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017



68,705





68,705

Common stock - Class A, $0.01 par value, 747,509,582 shares authorized; 23,658,991 and 24,218,359 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively



237





242

Common stock - Class C, $0.01 par value, 76,603 shares authorized; 76,603 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017



1





1

Additional paid-in-capital



310,595





318,170

Distributions in excess of cumulative earnings



(187,720)





(164,286)

Total Stockholders' Equity



191,818





222,832

Noncontrolling Interests















Operating partnership units



36,124





42,999

Partially owned properties



22,708





20,347

Total Noncontrolling Interests



58,832





63,346

Total Equity



250,650





286,178

TOTAL LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE PREFERRED STOCK AND EQUITY

$ 1,838,165



$ 1,690,547



Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The foregoing supplemental financial data includes certain non-GAAP financial measures that we believe are helpful in understanding our business and performance, as further described below. Our definition and calculation of these non-GAAP financial measures may differ from those of other REITs, and may, therefore, not be comparable.

Funds from Operations, Core Funds from Operations, and Adjusted Funds from Operations

We believe that funds from operations ("FFO"), as defined by the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts ("NAREIT"), core funds from operations ("Core FFO"), and adjusted funds from operations ("AFFO") are important non-GAAP supplemental measures of operating performance for a REIT.

FFO attributable to common shares and units is a non-GAAP financial measure that is widely recognized as a measure of REIT operating performance. We consider FFO to be an appropriate supplemental measure of our operating performance as it is based on a net income analysis of property portfolio performance that excludes non-cash items such as depreciation. The historical accounting convention used for real estate assets requires straight-line depreciation of buildings and improvements, which implies that the value of real estate assets diminishes predictably over time. Since real estate values historically rise and fall with market conditions, presentations of operating results for a REIT, using historical accounting for depreciation, could be less informative. We define FFO, consistent with the NAREIT definition, as net income, computed in accordance with GAAP, excluding gains (or losses) from sales of property, plus depreciation and amortization of real estate assets, plus impairment write-downs of depreciable real estate, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures. Adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures will be calculated to reflect FFO on the same basis.

Core FFO makes certain adjustments to FFO, removing the effect of items that do not reflect ongoing property operations such as stock compensation expense, acquisition expenses, losses on early extinguishment of debt (includes prepayment penalties incurred and the write-off of unamortized deferred financing costs and fair market value adjustments of assumed debt), non-cash interest, one-time weather-related costs, and preferred stock accretion. We believe that Core FFO is helpful to investors as a supplemental performance measure because it excludes the effects of certain items which can create significant earnings volatility, but which do not directly relate to our core recurring property operations. As a result, we believe that Core FFO can help facilitate comparisons of operating performance between periods and provides a more meaningful predictor of future earnings potential.

AFFO makes certain adjustments to Core FFO in order to arrive at a more refined measure of the operating performance of our portfolio. There is no industry standard definition of AFFO and practice is divergent across the industry. AFFO adjusts Core FFO for items that impact our ongoing operations, such as subtracting recurring capital expenditures (and while we were externally managed, when calculating the quarterly incentive fee paid to our former Manager only, we further adjusted FFO to include any realized gains or losses on our real estate investments). We believe that AFFO is helpful to investors as a meaningful supplemental indicator of our operational performance.

Our calculation of Core FFO and AFFO differs from the methodology used for calculating Core FFO and AFFO by certain other REITs and, accordingly, our Core FFO and AFFO may not be comparable to Core FFO and AFFO reported by other REITs. Our management utilizes FFO, Core FFO, and AFFO as measures of our operating performance after adjustment for certain non-cash items, such as depreciation and amortization expenses, and acquisition and pursuit costs that are required by GAAP to be expensed but may not necessarily be indicative of current operating performance and that may not accurately compare our operating performance between periods. Furthermore, although FFO, Core FFO, AFFO and other supplemental performance measures are defined in various ways throughout the REIT industry, we also believe that FFO, Core FFO, and AFFO may provide us and our stockholders with an additional useful measure to compare our financial performance to certain other REITs. While we were externally managed, we also used AFFO for purposes of determining the quarterly incentive fee paid to our former Manager in prior periods.

Neither FFO, Core FFO, nor AFFO is equivalent to net income, including net income attributable to common stockholders, or cash generated from operating activities determined in accordance with GAAP. Furthermore, FFO, Core FFO, and AFFO do not represent amounts available for management's discretionary use because of needed capital replacement or expansion, debt service obligations or other commitments or uncertainties. Neither FFO, Core FFO, nor AFFO should be considered as an alternative to net income, including net income attributable to common stockholders, as an indicator of our operating performance or as an alternative to cash flow from operating activities as a measure of our liquidity.

We have acquired interests in nine additional operating properties subsequent to June 30, 2017. Therefore, the results presented in the table below are not directly comparable and should not be considered an indication of our future operating performance.

The table below reconciles our calculations of FFO, Core FFO and AFFO to net income (loss), the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands, except per share amounts):



Three Months Ended



Six Months Ended



June 30,



June 30,



2018



2017



2018



2017



Net (loss) income attributable to common shares $ (10,212)



$ 17,569



$ (19,638)



$ 12,579



Add back: Net (loss) income attributable to operating partnership units

(3,010)





186





(5,685)





129



Net (loss) income attributable to common shares and units

(13,222)





17,755





(25,323)





12,708



Common stockholders and operating partnership units pro-rata share of:































Real estate depreciation and amortization (1)

13,990





9,425





28,821





19,338



Gain on sale of real estate investments







(26,832)











(34,313)



Gain on sale of joint venture interests, net







(6,399)











(6,399)



FFO Attributable to Common Shares and Units

768





(6,051)





3,498





(8,666)



Common stockholders and operating partnership units pro-rata share of:































Acquisition and pursuit costs

28





16





71





3,056



Non-cash interest expense

1,602





783





2,062





1,261



Loss on early extinguishment of debt

653





1,551





653





1,551



Weather-related losses, net













165









Non-real estate depreciation and amortization (1)

75











139









Non-recurring income







(16)











(16)



Non-cash preferred returns and equity in income of unconsolidated real estate joint ventures

(233)





(492)





(464)





(492)



Management internalization







340











820



Non-cash equity compensation

1,638





6,919





3,418





10,120



Preferred stock accretion

1,400





647





2,510





984



Core FFO Attributable to Common Shares and Units

5,931





3,697





12,052





8,618



Common stockholders and operating partnership units pro-rata share of:































Normally recurring capital expenditures

(631)





(335)





(1,149)





(629)



AFFO Attributable to Common Shares and Units $ 5,300



$ 3,362



$ 10,903



$ 7,989



Per Share and Unit Information:































FFO Attributable to Common Shares and Units - diluted $ 0.02



$ (0.23)



$ 0.11



$ (0.34)



Core FFO Attributable to Common Shares and Units - diluted $ 0.19



$ 0.14



$ 0.39



$ 0.33



AFFO Attributable to Common Shares and Units - diluted $ 0.17



$ 0.13



$ 0.35



$ 0.31





































Weighted average common shares and units outstanding - diluted

30,814,839





26,352,066





30,873,023





25,815,164





































(1) The real estate depreciation and amortization amount includes our share of consolidated real estate-related depreciation and amortization of intangibles, less amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests  partially owned properties, and our similar estimated share of unconsolidated depreciation and amortization, which is included in earnings of our unconsolidated real estate joint venture investments.





Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization for Real Estate ("EBITDAre")

NAREIT defines earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization for real estate ("EBITDAre") (September 2017 White Paper) as net income, computed in accordance with GAAP, before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization expense, and further adjusted for gains and losses from sales of depreciated operating properties, and impairment write-downs of depreciated operating properties.

We consider EBITDAre to be an appropriate supplemental measure of our performance because it eliminates depreciation, income taxes, interest and non-recurring items, which permits investors to view income from operations unobscured by non-cash items such as depreciation, amortization, the cost of debt or non-recurring items.

Adjusted EBITDAre represents EBITDAre further adjusted for non-comparable items and it is not intended to be a measure of free cash flow for our management's discretionary use, as it does not consider certain cash requirements such as income tax payments, debt service requirements, capital expenditures and other fixed charges.

EBITDAre and Adjusted EBITDAre are not recognized measurements under GAAP. Because not all companies use identical calculations, our presentation of EBITDAre and Adjusted EBITDAre may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies.

Below is a reconciliation of net loss attributable to common stockholders to EBITDAre (unaudited and dollars in thousands).





Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended



June 30,

June 30,



2018

2017

2018

2017 Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders

$ (10,212)



$ 17,569



$ (19,638)



$ 12,579

Net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests



(3,263)





10,171





(6,153)





18,900

Preferred stock dividends



8,643





6,381





16,890





12,233

Preferred stock accretion



1,400





647





2,510





984

Interest expense, net



13,041





7,825





23,158





14,943

Depreciation and amortization



14,744





10,387





30,321





21,331

Gain on sale of real estate investments



-





(33,574)





-





(50,040)

Gain on sale of real estate joint venture interest, net



-





(10,238)





-





(10,238)

Loss on early extinguishment of debt



653





1,639





653





1,639

EBITDAre

$ 25,006



$ 10,807



$ 47,741



$ 22,331

Acquisition and pursuit costs



28





18





71





3,200

Management internalization



-





340





-





820

Non-real estate depreciation and amortization



75





-





139





-

Weather-related losses, net



-





-





168





-

Non-cash equity compensation



1,638





6,919





3,418





10,119

Non-recurring income



-





(17)





-





(17)

Non-cash preferred returns and equity in income of unconsolidated real estate joint ventures



(233)





(492)





(464)





(492)

Adjusted EBITDAre

$ 26,514



$ 17,575



$ 51,073



$ 35,961





































Recurring Capital Expenditures

We define recurring capital expenditures as expenditures that are incurred at every property and exclude development, investment, revenue enhancing and non-recurring capital expenditures.

Non-Recurring Capital Expenditures

We define non-recurring capital expenditures as expenditures for significant projects that upgrade units or common areas and projects that are revenue enhancing.

Same Store Properties

Same store properties are conventional multifamily residential apartments which were owned and operational for the entire periods presented, including each comparative period.

Property Net Operating Income ("Property NOI")

We believe that net operating income, or NOI, is a useful measure of our operating performance. We define NOI as total property revenues less total property operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization and interest. Other REITs may use different methodologies for calculating NOI, and accordingly, our NOI may not be comparable to other REITs. We believe that this measure provides an operating perspective not immediately apparent from GAAP operating income or net income. We use NOI to evaluate our performance on a same store and non-same store basis; NOI measures the core operations of property performance by excluding corporate level expenses and other items not related to property operating performance and captures trends in rental housing and property operating expenses. However, NOI should only be used as a supplemental measure of our financial performance.

Certain amounts in prior periods, related to tenant reimbursements for utility expenses amounting to $1.5 million and $3.0 million for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, have been reclassified to other property revenues from property operating expenses, to conform to the current period. In addition, property management fees have been reclassified from property operating expenses.

The following table reflects net loss attributable to common stockholders together with a reconciliation to NOI and to same store and non-same store contributions to consolidated NOI, as computed in accordance with GAAP for the periods presented (unaudited and amounts in thousands):





Three Months Ended (1) Six Months Ended (2)



June 30, June 30,



2018 2017 2018 2017 Net (loss) income attributable to common shares $ (10,212) $ 17,569 $ (19,638) $ 12,579 Add back: Net (loss) income attributable to operating partnership units (3,010) 186 (5,685) 129 Net (loss) income attributable to common shares and units (13,222) 17,755 (25,323) 12,708 Add common stockholders and operating partnership units pro-rata share:









Depreciation and amortization 13,990 9,425 28,821 19,338

Non-real estate depreciation and amortization 75  139 

Non-cash interest expense 1,602 783 2,062 1,261

Property management fees 1,017 668 1,956 1,317

Management fees  6,163  8,931

Acquisition and pursuit costs 28 16 71 3,056

Loss on early extinguishment of debt 653 1,551 653 1,551

Corporate operating expenses 4,528 1,696 9,197 3,146

Management internalization  340  820

Weather-related losses, net   165 

Preferred dividends 8,643 6,381 16,890 12,233

Preferred stock accretion 1,400 647 2,510 984 Less common stockholders and operating partnership units pro-rata share:









Other income  16  16

Preferred returns and equity in income of unconsolidated real estate joint ventures 2,626 2,605 5,088 5,177

Interest income from related parties 5,635 2,097 10,830 3,620

Gain on sale of joint venture interest  6,399  6,399

Gain on sale of real estate investments  26,832  34,313 Pro-rata share of properties' income 10,453 7,476 21,223 15,820 Add:











Noncontrolling interest pro-rata share of partially owned property income 542 702 1,152 1,790 Total property income 10,995 8,178 22,375 17,610 Add:











Interest expense, net 11,455 6,864 21,090 13,473 Net operating income 22,450 15,042 43,465 31,083 Less:











Non-same store net operating income 8,970 2,068 19,387 7,842 Same store net operating income $ 13,480 $ 12,974 $ 24,078 $ 23,241













(1) Same Store sales for the three months ended June 30, 2018 related to the following properties: Enders Place at Baldwin Park, ARIUM Grandewood, Park & Kingston, Ashton Reserve, ARIUM Palms, Sorrel, Sovereign, ARIUM Gulfshore, ARIUM at Palmer Ranch, The Preserve at Henderson Beach, ARIUM Westside, ARIUM Pine Lakes, James on South First, ARIUM Glenridge, Roswell City Walk, The Brodie, Preston View and Wesley Village. (2) Same Store sales for the six months ended June 30, 2018 related to the following properties: Enders Place at Baldwin Park, ARIUM Grandewood, Park & Kingston, Ashton Reserve, ARIUM Palms, Sorrel, Sovereign, ARIUM Gulfshore, ARIUM at Palmer Ranch, The Preserve at Henderson Beach, ARIUM Westside, ARIUM Pine Lakes, James on South First, ARIUM Glenridge, Roswell City Walk and The Brodie.

SOURCE Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.bluerockresidential.com


CHICAGO, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced its investment in Digital Alloys, Inc., a Burlington, Mass.-based company developing high-speed, multi-metal additive manufacturing systems that produce 3D-printed parts for aerospace and other production applications.

Digital Alloys' Joule Printing technology can rapidly combine multiple metals into each part, which enhances thermal, electrical, magnetic and mechanical properties. The process allows metals like titanium and high-temperature alloys to be 3D-printed for parts that could be used on Boeing products.

"Our investment in Digital Alloys will help Boeing produce metal structural aerospace parts faster and at higher volume than ever before," said Brian Schettler, managing director of Boeing HorizonX Ventures. "By investing in companies with emerging additive manufacturing technologies, we aim to strengthen Boeing's expertise and help accelerate the design and manufacture of 3D-printed parts to transform production systems and products."

Formed in January 2017, Digital Alloys developed a patented 3D-printing approach that avoids the cost and complexity of powder-based systems, and delivers higher resolution than other wire-based 3D-printing techniques.

"Our novel Joule Printing process is faster, more cost-effective, and more reliable than other approaches," said Duncan McCallum, CEO of Digital Alloys. "Partnering with Boeing will make us a smarter, stronger company. We are committed to enabling Boeing and other leading manufacturers to create valuable new products quickly and at less cost by incorporating metal 3D printing into their production."

Additive manufacturing generates value for Boeing by reducing the cost and time needed to design, build and deliver products to customers. Today, Boeing has more than 60,000 3D-printed parts flying on space, commercial and defense products. This investment is the latest example of the company's commitment to additive manufacturing innovation.

Boeing HorizonX Ventures participated in Digital Alloys' Series B funding round led by G20 Ventures, with participation by Lincoln Electric and Khosla Ventures. The Boeing HorizonX Ventures investment portfolio is made up of companies specializing in autonomous systems, energy and data storage, advanced materials, augmented reality systems and software, machine learning, hybrid-electric and hypersonic propulsion, and Internet of Things connectivity.

Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners and defense, space and security systems. A top U.S. exporter, the company supports airlines and U.S. and allied government customers in more than 150 countries.

Contact

Vienna Catalani

Boeing Communications

Office: +1 425-237-7051

Mobile: +1 425-306-7012

[email protected]



Duncan McCallum

CEO, Digital Alloys

www.digitalalloys.com

[email protected]

(781) 222-5985

SOURCE Boeing

Related Links

http://www.boeing.com


"I am thrilled to welcome Brian to our family," said CBC President Dr. Azita Owlia. "Brian has demonstrated flexibility, cultural sensitivity, open communication, thoughtfulness and curiosity throughout his career. His rich experience will further strengthen our leadership capabilities, which is essential for delivering success today while preparing for an even brighter future."

Scutt began his career in 1998 with Bayer HealthCare as an animal health technical manager and later was named division manager of vitamins and fine chemicals at Roche. He then transitioned to DSM where he served as general manager of DSM nutritional products in Australia and later became general manager, Asia-Pacific, in Malaysia for Fortitech. After a career in P&L leadership, he was tapped to transition to an operations role to integrate the Fortitech's back-end functions following its acquisition by DSM. Brian spent over six years improving operations for premix manufacturing and for human nutrition in Malaysia, as well as the human nutrition and health division in Singapore.

Scutt will be based out of CBC's Singapore office but travel extensively throughout the Asia-Pacific region to CBC's other 47 locations in 18 different countries, as well as to its headquarters in San Francisco.

About Connell Bros. Co.

Founded in 1898, Connell Bros. Co. LLC is part of the Wilbur-Ellis family of companies and is the largest marketer and distributor of specialty chemicals and ingredients in the Asia-Pacific region with a keen focus on technical service, customer support, and environmental, health, and safety. Connell Brothers provides complete supply chain management from transportation, documentation, warehousing and sales across 18 countries and in 48 offices located throughout the Asia Pacific region. For more information, please visit www.connellbrothers.com.

About the Wilbur-Ellis Companies

Founded in 1921, the Wilbur-Ellis companies are leading international marketers and distributors of agricultural products, animal feed and specialty chemicals and ingredients. By developing strong relationships, making strategic market investments and capitalizing on new opportunities, the Wilbur-Ellis companies have continued to grow the business with sales now over $3 billion. www.wilburellis.com.

SOURCE Connell Bros. Co. LLC

Related Links

http://www.connellbrothers.com


CHICAGO, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- C.A. Fortune, a leading consumer products sales and marketing agency based in Chicago, continues to grow and expand its national services.

Effective Sept. 1, the firm will open a Bentonville office, just a few blocks from Walmart's corporate headquarters, dedicated to serving more than 5,000 Walmart retail units nationwide. Tyler Gill, previously a vice-president within Acosta Sales & Marketing's Bentonville team, has been tapped to lead C.A. Fortune's Bentonville office.

Tyler Gill has been tapped to lead C.A. Fortune's new Bentonville office. C.A. Fortune is a leading consumer products sales and marketing agency based in Chicago. The company continues to grow and expand its national services. Effective Sept. 1, the firm will open a Bentonville office, just a few blocks from Walmart's corporate headquarters, dedicated to serving more than 5,000 Walmart retail units nationwide.

"Building out a full-service dedicated Walmart team has certainly been a critical component of our overall strategic business plan  it was just a matter of identifying the right time to bring to market. Between a significant amount of current and new clients communicating a high level of interest, along with finding the right leader, we're thrilled to announce our September launch," said managing partner, Tyler Lowell.

Lowell says that Gill is a high-performance, proven leader, with not only a tremendous amount of experience servicing the Walmart business, but across many different business units, predominantly on the agency side.

"He perfectly fits C.A. Fortune's culture and understands our number one goal of servicing our client and customer partners at the highest level possible," Lowell said.

The new C.A. Fortune office in Bentonville will offer:

Full-service headquarter account management

Dedicated insights/analytics team

Complete back-office support

Gill said this is the ideal time for him to join the C.A. Fortune team and help build the company's presence in Bentonville.

"C.A. Fortune's unparalleled reputation, along with their expertise and experience in this arena, make the company the perfect choice as the next step in my career," Gill said. "Fresh categories and better-for-you options have become a major growth opportunity for retailers and CPG manufacturers. As a result, Walmart is keenly focused on their most productive growth opportunities and continues to prioritize lifestyle brands."

C.A. Fortune's journey to building a national presence began five years ago from its initial upper-Midwest roots. Today the company employs more than 375 associates with eight offices across the country. The privately held firm continues to provide full-service coverage both from a trade channel perspective and product category.

About C.A. Fortune

Founded in 1983, C.A. Fortune is a leading full-service national consumer products sales and marketing agency, specializing in the lifestyle-brand sector. With more than 375 employees nationwide, the company offers clients a turn-key solution  from brand incubation, client development, sales management, marketing and insights, retail services and more. The company, headquartered in Chicago, has regional offices in Bentonville, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, New York City metro and San Francisco. Visit www.CAFortune.com.

Media Contact

Joelle Polisky 615-516-0358 [email protected]

SOURCE C.A. Fortune

Related Links

http://www.cafortune.com


SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico and NEW YORK, Aug, 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Global cannabis brand Tikun Olam is bringing its pioneering cannabis medicine to Puerto Rico through an exclusive licensing agreement with iaso Corporation. iaso, a leading San Juan-based science and technology company, will cultivate Tikun strains, including the widely researched high-CBD Avidekel, and distribute Tikun products throughout the Commonwealth in 2019. The arrangement with iaso is the tenth struck in the United States by Tikun Olam's US joint venture, TO Global LLC (Tikun).

iaso is Puerto Rico's only all-indoor cultivation facility, employing soil-less, aeroponic technology.

"iaso is an ideal partner for Tikun's values and mission," says Tikun USA CEO Bernard Sucher. "Cesar Cordero-Kruger has accomplished so much for his community, in business and philanthropy. We are privileged to work with his team of professionals dedicated to advancing the science of cannabis."

"Tikun's proprietary cultivars are shown to treat patients in a safe, effective, and consistent manner," says iaso founder and CEO Cesar Cordero-Kruger. "This partnership advances iaso's mission to become a trusted provider of cannabis products to Puerto Rican patients."

About Tikun Olam

Tikun Olam ("repair the world" in Hebrew) is globally recognized as the pioneer of modern medical cannabis. Since 2010, its products have been the subject of ongoing clinical trials and have been relied upon to treat over 20,000 patients in Israel's regulated market for symptoms of conditions including cancer, PTSD, AIDS, epilepsy, Crohn's Disease/colitis, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, chronic pain and neuropathy. In 2016, TO Global LLC was launched as an independent joint venture with Tikun Olam Ltd (Israel) to bridge life-changing knowledge, experience and intellectual property into US communities where medical cannabis has been made legal. The growing international network of Tikun Olam affiliates includes, among others, Canada's MedReleaf and Australia's Medifarm.



About iaso

iaso is a science and technology company that spans the entire continuum of medical cannabis applications to promote wellness, cures, and remedies. Founded in 2015 by Cesar Cordero-Kruger, iaso has an accomplished and experienced leadership and management team in place in Puerto Rico, along with a world class board of scientific PhD advisors from the US, India, Israel, and Sri Lanka.



CONTACTS:



T.O. Global LLC/ Tikun

Chief Marketing Officer

Stephen Gardner

[email protected]



Media Relations

Brenda Loughery

[email protected]

iaso

Maria Martinez

[email protected]

SOURCE Tikun Olam

Related Links

http://www.tikunolamusa.com


WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The CFP Board Center for Financial Planning and The American College jointly announced a new scholarship today that will help grow and diversify the financial planner workforce.

The partnership was announced at the Conference of African American Financial Professionals in Washington, D.C. The CFP Board Center for Financial Planning will provide scholarships to take the CFP exam to The American College scholarship awardees who have graduated from its CFP Board Registered Program.

"This joint scholarship provides an opportunity for African American graduates of The American College's program to continue their journey to CFP certification," said CFP Board Center for Financial Planning Executive Director Marilyn Mohrman-Gillis. "We need to create more pathways into the profession for people of color not only because it can be a rewarding career, but so that all Americans have access to competent and ethical financial planning."

The American College's African American Scholarship Program offers full tuition scholarships for designation and degree programs. To be eligible, applicants must be Black or African American and cannot be eligible for educational reimbursement from an employer.

Todd M. Schoon, JD, CLU, ChFC, Interim President & CEO, at The American College of Financial Services said, "We are excited about this partnership with The CFP Board Center for Financial Planning." The College's African American Scholarship is part of its Double by 2027 initiative to double the number of African American financial advisors by 2027 from the current rate of approximately 8 percent, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Recipients of a scholarship from the African American Scholarship Program who successfully complete the coursework at The American College to sit for the CFP exam and intend to pursue CFP certification will be eligible for the CFP exam scholarship. Up to 15 CFP exam scholarships per year will be awarded to first-time CFP exam-takers on a "first come, first served" basis.

The CFP exam is just one of several requirements that need to be met in order to become a CFP professional. In addition to passing the exam, candidates also must meet CFP Board's experience requirements, pass a background check, have a Bachelor's degree (or higher) and successfully complete a college-level program of study in personal financial planning.

Those interested in learning more about The American College's African American Scholarship Program can click here. More about the Center can be found here.

ABOUT CFP BOARD

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. is a professional body for personal financial planners in the U.S. CFP Board sets standards for financial planning and administers the prestigious CFP certification  one of the most respected certifications in financial services  so that the public has access to and benefits from competent and ethical financial planning. CFP Board, along with its Center for Financial Planning, is committed to increasing the public's awareness of CFP certification and access to a diverse, ethical and competent financial planning workforce. Widely recognized by firms as the standard for financial planning, CFP certification is held by nearly 82,000 people in the United States.

ABOUT THE CFP BOARD CENTER FOR FINANCIAL PLANNING

The CFP Board Center for Financial Planning seeks to create a more diverse and sustainable financial planning profession so that every American has access to competent and ethical financial planning advice. The Center brings together CFP professionals, firms, educators, researchers and experts to address profession-wide challenges in the areas of diversity and workforce development, and to build an academic home that offers opportunities for conducting and publishing new research that adds to the financial planning body of knowledge. More about the Center and its initiatives can be found at www.CenterforFinancialPlanning.org.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN COLLEGE

The American College of Financial Services was founded in 1927 and is the nation's largest non-profit educational institution devoted to financial services. Holding the highest level of academic accreditation, The College has educated one in five financial advisors across the United States and offers prestigious financial planning designations such as the Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), Wealth Management Certified Professional (WMCP) and education leading to the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification. The College's faculty represents some of the foremost thought leaders of the financial services profession. For more information, visit TheAmericanCollege.edu.

SOURCE Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.cfp.net


SAUGUS, Calif., Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Hasa, Inc. ("Hasa"), a leading producer and distributor of high quality water treatment products used to sanitize and maintain water systems, today announced that Christopher ("Chris") Brink has been appointed Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Brink brings extensive experience in strategy, management, and product development and will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer, Rory Manley.

Prior to joining Hasa, Mr. Brink served as Vice President of the Polyurethane Systems division at Accella Performance Materials ("Accella"), a subsidiary of Carlisle Construction Materials. Accella is a manufacturer of custom formulated polyurethane systems for consumer and commercial end markets, with nine production facilities worldwide. Before joining Accella, Mr. Brink spent seven years at Henry Company, a building materials manufacturer, in a variety of operational roles, most recently as a Senior Vice President and Business Head. Earlier in his career, Mr. Brink held various sales and commercial leadership roles at the Dow Chemical Company and began his career as an applied chemist at the Stepan Company.

Rory Manley, CEO of Hasa, commented: "We are thrilled to have Chris join our organization at this point in our company's trajectory. We will be drawing on Chris' operational and strategic expertise as we continue to expand our capabilities and reach, while maintaining our focus on providing the highest levels of quality and service to our valued customers."

ABOUT HASA, INC.

Hasa, Inc. is a leading producer and distributor of high quality water treatment products used to sanitize and maintain water systems, including swimming pools, water tanks and containment vessels for recreational, industrial and municipal end markets. Founded in 1964, the company operates across five facilities in California, Arizona, Washington and Texas.

Media Contact:

Daniel Yunger / Cathryn Vaulman

KEKST

212-521-4800

SOURCE Hasa, Inc.
The fellowship covers all program fees and travel costs for 10 students -- chosen for their academic achievement, communication skills, and service to others -- to participate in a four-week experiential education program designed to provide a global perspective and strengthen the leadership and intercultural communication skills of each participant, with a focus on developing techniques to apply these skills in their respective communities when they return to the United States.

"The impact of the Frederick Douglass Global Fellowship program goes well beyond a life-changing experience for just 10 students," said Paola "Lola" Esmieu, Associate Director of Programs at the Penn Center for Minority Serving Institutions. "As last year's Frederick Douglass Fellows demonstrated when they returned to their home campuses, alumni of the program are encouraging examples for other students at Minority Serving Institutions and beyond."

"These Fellows will have the distinct advantage of being surrounded by MSI students, who like them are seeking exceptional leadership opportunities," explained Marybeth Gasman, Judy & Howard Berkowitz Professor of Education and Director of the Penn Center for Minority Serving Institutions. "Thus, this fellowship is not only urging students to use their experiences to advocate for study abroad on their campuses, but also promoting the value of cohort-building."

The celebration of the Frederick Douglass Fellows was held at the District Six Museum's Homecoming Centre in Cape Town and kicked off with a roundtable discussion featuring several guest speakers including Mandy Sanger, Head of Education at District Six Museum; Bilgees Baker, a local entrepreneur and tour guide in Bo-Kaap; Ndifuna Ukwazi, an activist with Reclaim the City, a Cape Town-based desegregation and affordable housing development organization; Tony Elvin, Director of Associates SA and founder of Social Enterprise Consulting; and Keshia Abraham and Quinton Redcliffe of CIEE. This year's roundtable topic was 'Decolonizing Spaces,' each session explored themes of violence, colonialism, and displacement through a democratic exchange of knowledge and experiences between American and South African scholars, academics, activists, and thinkers.

The event also included a keynote address from Nettie Washington Douglass, Frederick Douglass's great, great granddaughter and Co-founder and Chairwoman of the Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives, as well as Fowzia Achmat, a member of the Bo-Kaap Civic Association and the descendant of Sarah von der Kaap, an enslaved woman, who is one of the first woman property owners in Cape Town. After the sessions, guests were invited to dance alongside Silumko Koyana, an African Dance lecturer and instructor from the University of Cape Town with music by the Ekhaya Marimba Band.

"We are so proud of this year's Frederick Douglass Fellows, and the collaboration between CIEE and CMSI that is providing tools that will help these outstanding students grow into globally conscious and service-oriented leaders," said Keshia Abraham, Director of Strategic Initiatives at CIEE.

Students selected for the 2019 Frederick Douglass Global Fellowship will study in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. Applications are open and will close on October 1, 2018.

Read more about the Frederick Douglass Global Fellowship.

About the Penn Center for Minority Serving Institutions

The Penn Center for Minority Serving Institutions (CMSI) brings together researchers and practitioners from the nation's Minority Serving Institutions. CMSI's goals include: elevating the educational contributions of MSIs; ensuring that they are a part of national conversations; bringing awareness to the vital role MSIs play in the nation's economic development; increasing the rigorous scholarship of MSIs; connecting MSIs' academic and administrative leadership to promote reform initiatives; and strengthening efforts to close educational achievement gaps among disadvantaged communities. www.gse.upenn.edu/cmsi

About the Council on International Educational Exchange

CIEE, the country's oldest and largest nonprofit study abroad and intercultural exchange organization, transforms lives and builds bridges by promoting the exchange of ideas and experiences. To help people develop skills for living in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world, CIEE sponsors a wide variety of opportunities for cultural exchange, including work exchange programs, teach abroad programs, and a worldwide portfolio of study abroad and internship programs for college and high school students. www.ciee.org.

Contact:

Leslie Taylor

(207) 553-4274

[email protected]

SOURCE Council On International Educational Exchange (CIEE)

Related Links

www.ciee.org


In the wake of the devastating impact of Hurricane Harvey, CITGO volunteers took immediate action by rebuilding approximately 22 homes in the Rockport, Texas community alongside Habitat. Recognizing the long-term impact Hurricane Harvey would have on Texas communities, CITGO also dedicated more than $1 million to Habitat for Humanity Texas and local affiliates to rebuild, rehabilitate and repair homes in impacted areas over the course of the next few years.

"The tremendous generosity we've seen from companies like CITGO shows that no disaster can match the spirit of Texas when we work together," said Texas Governor Greg Abbott. "When companies invest here, they invest in the people of Texas, and CITGO's announcement is a testament to the company's commitment to these communities during the recovery process. This donation will go a long way in helping those trying to rebuild their lives after Harvey, and I thank CITGO for its dedication to helping victims recover."

Habitat for Humanity Texas' 2018 award ceremony will take place during the annual Lone Star Summit, a convening of more than 50 local Habitat affiliates in Texas. While Habitat for Humanity Texas and local Habitat offices are supported by many generous partners, the Business Partner of the Year Award is awarded to a company that has gone above and beyond to provide support across Texas by serving multiple local Habitat for Humanity affiliates.

"We're so grateful to CITGO and its employees for all of their support this year," said Amy Parham, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Texas. "It means a lot to us to be able to present this award in honor of the deep partnership CITGO has built with the Texas Habitat for Humanity family. CITGO not only recognizes Habitat's need for time, talent and resources, but they provide them as well. From CITGO employee volunteers on Habitat build sites and financial donations to helping Habitat plan for the future, CITGO is truly invested in building  and rebuilding  Texas communities."

CITGO Vice President of Strategic Shareholder Relations, Government and Public Affairs, Rafael Gomez said the core of the CITGO corporate social responsibility belief is a commitment to being a good neighbor. "We will always believe that actions speak louder than words. And I think that this award proves that belief. We are humbled to be selected as the Habitat for Humanity Texas' 2018 Business Partner of the Year, but we are even more humbled to be part of this great Texas community. It is an honor to give back when it is in need."

About Habitat for Humanity Texas

Habitat for Humanity Texas is the 501(c)3 State Association for 72 local Habitat for Humanity offices (affiliates) across the state of Texas. Established on March 23, 2005, Habitat for Humanity Texas is dedicated to helping Texas affiliates through training and technical assistance, resource development, disaster services, and advocacy for affordable housing.

About CITGO

CITGO, based in Houston, is a refiner, transporter and marketer of transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals and other industrial products. The company is owned by CITGO Holding, Inc., an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Petroleos de Venezuela, S.A., the national oil company of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. For more information, visit www.citgo.com.

SOURCE CITGO

Related Links

http://www.citgo.com


ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Community Brands, the leading provider of cloud-based software solutions for associations, nonprofits, schools and faith-based groups, today announced the immediate availability of a new mobile bidding and event fundraising platform. The company identified and combined the best and most innovative attributes of 501 Auctions, Gesture and GiveSmartwhich were acquired by Community Brands just eight months agoto form the state-of-the art platform now known simply as GiveSmart.

GiveSmart offers features that revolutionize the event fundraising industry, helping charities and donation-driven organizations raise more money. Donors submit bids and track notifications on their smartphone from anywhere, a competitive dynamic which leads to greater engagement and increased donations. Organizations delight donors with better experiences, while monitoring real-time campaign performance through reporting dashboards. Nonprofits, associations, foundations and schools all currently use the company's event fundraising technology to create more rewarding digital experiences at events.

"Online and mobile giving data suggests that donation preferences are shifting to digital tools," said Erin Shy, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Nonprofit Solutions, Community Brands. "We're investing in technology that helps organizations stay ahead of the mobile expectations donors have and allows individuals to give in the manner they prefer. There's more to come, as we continue to grow and develop the offerings of our new event fundraising platform."

The Community Brands 2018 Donor Experience Study highlights the importance donors place on solutions that allow them to make donations on a mobile device. The study shows that 71 percent of those surveyed have donated on a mobile device during the past year.

GiveSmart Features, Functionality and Services

With the new GiveSmart solution, organizations can raise funds with customizable web forms that collect donations, manage event registrations and motivate supporters to participate in peer-to-peer auctions. The unified platform is offered with a tiered service model that includes both premium, personalized services and self-service options. Organizations administer the event, register guests, manage payments, view reports and gain greater insights using the industry's largest set of event fundraising data tools.

Giving Escalates during 1Q and 2Q 2018

During the first half of 2018, Community Brands reports a 27 percent year-over-year increase in fundraising events collectively powered by 501 Auctions, Gesture and GiveSmart products. During the same period, 30 percent more dollars were raised. Community Brands technology supported more than 3,700 events and helped organizations raise $400 million during the first half of 2018.

Community Brands will celebrate the arrival of its new mobile bidding and event fundraising platform by holding a live auction during the 2018 American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Annual Meeting and Expo event August 18  21 at McCormick Place in Chicago. More details about the live auction will be available at Community Brands booth #301, ASAE18 registration and throughout the event. All proceeds raised from the auction will benefit ASAE Foundation.

To learn more about GiveSmart, Community Brands and its Membership Solutions, Nonprofit Solutions and K-12 Solutions, visit CommunityBrands.com.

About Community Brands

Community Brands is the leading provider of cloud-based software to associations, nonprofits, K-12 schools and faith-based groups. Through innovation and technology, the company empowers more than 100,000 clients and partners to succeed faster, grow stronger and achieve social good. Organizations adopt Community Brands software to manage memberships, career centers, learning, accounting, mobile giving, peer-to-peer fundraising, donations, admissions, enrollments and events. Using these engagement platforms, customers of all sizes create meaningful and lasting experiences for their members, donors, volunteers and families. Headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, USA, Community Brands serves the social good community in more than 30 countries. To learn more, visit communitybrands.com or follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Media Contact

Michael Piotrowski

Community Brands

[email protected]

727.497.5975

SOURCE Community Brands

Related Links

http://CommunityBrands.com


NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Credit Suisse AG ("Credit Suisse") issued an announcement today that it will suspend new issuances of FIEU ETNs in connection with their upcoming scheduled maturity (see details in table below):

ETN Name* Exchange Exchange

Ticker CUSIP Maturity

Date Credit Suisse FI Enhanced Europe 50 ETNs due September 10, 2018 NYSE Arca FIEU 22542D100 9/10/2018

*The table above provides a hyperlink to the FIEU pricing supplement.

As of August 29, 2018, Credit Suisse will suspend new issuances of FIEU ETNs. The FIEU ETNs are scheduled to mature on September 10, 2018. Please see the pricing supplement for detailed information relating to the calculation of the payment at maturity and relating to the maturity date generally.

Credit Suisse expects that the NYSE Arca will allow the FIEU ETNs to continue to trade until September 7, 2018. Investors who buy such ETNs at any time for an amount that is greater than the amount they receive on the maturity date (including paying any premium to the payment at maturity, once this amount has been determined) will suffer a loss on their investment. Furthermore, investors who sell such ETNs at any time for an amount that is less than the amount they would have received on the maturity date (including selling at any discount to the payment at maturity, once this amount has been determined) will also suffer a loss. In either case, such losses could be significant. Investors will not receive any other compensation or amount for the loss of the investment opportunity of holding such ETNs and investors may be unable to invest in other securities with a similar level of risk and/or that provide a similar investment opportunity as such ETNs.

None of the other ETNs offered by Credit Suisse are affected by this announcement. All dates referenced above are subject to change, including postponement due to certain events.

Press Contacts

Azar Boehm, Credit Suisse AG, telephone +1 212 538 3953, [email protected]

Credit Suisse ETNs



Telephone +1 800 320 1225,

[email protected]

Credit Suisse AG

Credit Suisse AG is one of the world's leading financial services providers and is part of the Credit Suisse group of companies (referred to here as 'Credit Suisse'). Our strategy builds on Credit Suisse's core strengths: its position as a leading wealth manager, its specialist investment banking capabilities and its strong presence in our home market of Switzerland. We seek to follow a balanced approach to wealth management, aiming to capitalize on both the large pool of wealth within mature markets as well as the significant growth in wealth in Asia Pacific and other emerging markets, while also serving key developed markets with an emphasis on Switzerland. Credit Suisse employs approximately 45,430 people. The registered shares (CSGN) of Credit Suisse AG's parent company, Credit Suisse Group AG, are listed in Switzerland and, in the form of American Depositary Shares (CS), in New York. Further information about Credit Suisse can be found at www.credit-suisse.com.

SOURCE Credit Suisse AG

Related Links

http://www.credit-suisse.com


BURLINGTON, Mass., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital Alloys, Inc., provider of the fastest way to make the hardest parts, today announced a $12.9M Series B financing led by G20 Ventures and joined by Boeing HorizonX Ventures, Lincoln Electric, and prior investor Khosla Ventures.

Digital Alloys also announced two US patents for its Joule Printing metal additive manufacturing technology, a radically simple new process that uses wire feedstock and high deposition rates to print the hardest metal parts faster and at lower cost than any other solution. Initial applications of the technology include the production of conformally cooled tools for the automotive and consumer products industries, and the delivery of high-quality titanium parts for the aerospace industry.

Bill Wiberg, co-founder and Partner of Boston-based G20 Ventures, said, "When you look at the process required to produce practical hard metal parts using the much-hyped early generation of metal printing, what you find is a Rube Goldberg machine of complexity, touchy materials, and complex finishing steps. This great team has invented and now commercialized an entirely new approach that's both faster and cheaper to the point that  once you see it  you have to wonder why anyone would do it any other way."

Boeing will benefit from Digital Alloys' technology as it continues to support additive manufacturing innovations, particularly for parts made from titanium and other hard metals. "Our investment in Digital Alloys will further Boeing's ability to produce a higher volume of metal structural aerospace parts faster than ever before," said Brian Schettler, managing director of Boeing HorizonX Ventures. "Through emerging additive manufacturing technologies, we aim to accelerate the design and manufacture of 3D-printed parts to transform production systems and products."

Tom Matthews, senior vice president, technology and research and development at Lincoln Electric, said, "Our investment in Digital Alloys and Joule Printing technology extends Lincoln Electric's presence in metal-based additive manufacturing and helps advance development of value-added solutions in areas such as tooling and low-volume cast parts."

"Support from Boeing and Lincoln Electric will expand our expertise, technology and services," said Duncan McCallum, CEO of Digital Alloys. "We are committed to providing the products and services manufacturers need to take advantage of metal 3D printing in production. We will save customers time, money, and hassle by enabling great engineers to solve manufacturing problems in new ways. The next industrial revolution is here."

About Digital Alloys

For manufacturers of hard metal parts, additive manufacturing with Digital Alloys' radically simple Joule Printing delivers the highest speed and lowest cost. The company is led by an experienced management team, and backed by Boeing, Lincoln Electric, Khosla Ventures, and G20 Ventures. For more information visit www.digitalalloys.com.

About Boeing HorizonX Ventures

Boeing HorizonX uncovers and accelerates potentially transformative aerospace technologies, manufacturing innovations and emerging business models. The Boeing HorizonX Ventures investment portfolio includes startups specializing in autonomous systems, energy and data storage, advanced materials, augmented reality systems and software, machine learning, hybrid-electric and hypersonic propulsion, additive manufacturing and Internet of Things connectivity. Learn more at www.boeing.com/horizonx.

About Lincoln Electric

Lincoln Electric is the world leader in the design, development and manufacture of arc welding products, robotic arc welding systems, plasma and oxy-fuel cutting equipment and has a leading global position in the brazing and soldering alloys market. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Lincoln has 63 manufacturing locations, including operations and joint ventures in 23 countries and a worldwide network of distributors and sales offices covering more than 160 countries. For more information, visit www.lincolnelectric.com.

About G20 Ventures

G20 Ventures provides early traction capital for East Coast enterprise tech startups, backed by the power and expertise of 20 of the Northeast's most accomplished entrepreneurs. For more, visit www.g20vc.com.

Contacts:

Duncan McCallum, CEO

Digital Alloys, Inc.

[email protected]

SOURCE Digital Alloys

Related Links

http://www.digitalalloys.com


The Readiness Check was designed in response to Learning Heroes' research, which found that nine in ten K-8 parents believe their child performs at or above grade-level in reading and math, despite the reality that a little more than a third of students are achieving at that level, according to the latest National Assessment of Educational Progress data. Furthermore, the "summer slide" puts school-aged students at risk of losing up to two months of reading skills and two and a half months of math skills over a single summer.

Available in both English and Spanish, the Readiness Check was designed by leading experts in reading and math specifically for K-8 students and their parents. The student is asked just 3-5 questions in each of the two subject areas, and the tool instantly provides parents with important information about their child's grade-level progress with reading and math skills. The Readiness Check also connects parents to information, videos, and activities to support specific skills at home.

The Readiness Check is made possible with philanthropic support from Carnegie Corporation of New York, and is available at www.bealearninghero.org.

"Learning happens everywhere  at home, in the community, and in the classroom. The Readiness Check is a terrific new tool to help parents get a more complete picture of where their child is on track, and where more attention and focus may be needed," said Bibb Hubbard, founder and president of Learning Heroes. "Aside from a helpful gut check, the Readiness Check provides resources to help build a strong partnership with the child's new teacher."

The Readiness Check is the centerpiece of a robust back to school campaignin collaboration with Scholastic, National PTA, National Urban League, UnidosUS, and National Summer Learning Associationto help parents start their child's new school year strong. The campaign includes five tips through the Super 5: Back-to-School Power Moves, as well as free, high-quality resources from trusted partners:

Get a gut check: Use the Readiness Check to see how prepared your child is for their new grade. Pay attention to how easy or hard it is for your child to do grade-level tasks, and look at the annual state test results from last year. If you haven't received the results yet, ask your child's teacher. Partner up: At your first teacher meeting, bring your child's state test results and ask what they mean for this year. Find out what's expected of your child and how you can help at home. Help the teacher get to know your child by sharing their interests and strengths. Make learning fun: You are the expert on your child and can make learning exciting. Read together on topics that interest your child. Find math in everyday life and turn it into a game. These small learning moments add up to a lot. Celebrate effort: Help your child see that hard work is what leads to success. Focus on effort and what your child is learning. This will help your child feel less nervous with new tasks or subjects. Support life skills: Strengths such as communication, problem-solving, and confidence will help your child in school and life. Talk openly with your child about how they feel and how they handle situations, especially tough ones.

About Learning Heroes

Learning Heroes inspires and equips parents with information, resources and opportunities to help support their child's education. Using key insights from qualitative and quantitative research, we empower parents with easy-to-understand parent friendly materials delivered through multiple channels and trusted messengers. To ensure a broad reach, we partner with education, parent, and community and civil rights organizations including National PTA, National Urban League, GreatSchools, UnidosUS, National Summer Learning Association, and others, as well as states and districts. Learning Heroes is a project of the New Venture Fund. For more information, visit www.bealearninghero.org.

SOURCE Learning Heroes
NEW YORK, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Electrical Steel Market - Overview



Electrical steel is used in high-power consumer appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators, and high-power coolers.Consumer appliance manufacturers are focusing on using electrical steel that is environment-friendly (less heat losses) instead of regular steel.



Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05482748



This helps them save around 15% to 30% of energy.Electronic components made from electrical steel that are used in consumer appliances include compressor motors and relays.



These appliances are installed in cabins, confined spaces, or rooms; therefore, they are ideally required to be compact owing to space constraints. Hence, electrical steel used in compressor motors, relays, switches, etc. enables consumer appliance manufacturers to lower product size and also offer products with reduced noise output vis-A -vis those appliances that are manufactured with components made from regular steel.



Recently, amendments were carried out in trade policies of the global electrical steel market.These amendments were at regional and global level and were implemented for the ease of trade between nations and for their own regional business prospects.



Amendments included setting up a minimum price for the import of particular grade of electrical steel from particular regions/countries.The anti-dumping duties were modified in order to avoid the oversupply of electrical steel in some markets.



There were changes in legislatures such as advancements of free trade agreements (FTA) and negotiations with transpacific partnerships. Furthermore, the European Union decided to set a minimum price for the import of a particular-grade electrical steel from Japan, China, South Korea, Russia, and the U.S. Government initiatives as well as liberalization of policies are expected to offer lucrative opportunities to electrical steel companies. According to Canacero, a steel association, steel exports are falling in Mexico. Exports dropped 25% in January-July 2015. Some economic risks identified by Mizuno (Malaysiaas Steel Association) can affect the global electrical steel market. They include high unemployment in developed markets, slowdown in developed markets and China, and financial issues in Europe.



This report analyzes and forecasts the electrical steel market at the global and regional level.The market has been forecast based on revenue (US$ Mn) and volume (kilo tons) from 2017 to 2026, considering 2017 as the base year.



The study includes drivers and restraints of the global electrical steel market.It also covers impact of these drivers and restraints on demand for electrical steel during the forecast period.



The report also highlights opportunities in the electrical steel market at the global and regional level.



The report includes detailed value chain analysis, which provides a comprehensive view of the global electrical steel market.Porteras Five Forces model for the electrical steel market has also been included to help understand the competitive landscape.



The study encompasses market attractiveness analysis, wherein products and application are benchmarked based on their market size, growth rate, and general attractiveness.



The study provides a decisive view of the global electrical steel market by segmenting it in terms of type, application, end-user industry, and region.In terms of type, the electrical steel market has been classified into grain oriented and non-grain oriented.



Based on application, the electrical steel market can be divided into transformer, inductor, motor (rotor, stator, and others), and others.In terms of end-user industry, the global electrical steel market can be segregated into automotive, manufacturing, energy, household appliances, and others.



Regional segmentation includes current and forecast demand for electrical steel in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa.



The report provides the actual size of the electrical steel market for 2017 and estimated size for 2018 with forecast for the next eight years.The global electrical steel market has been provided in terms of revenue.



Market numbers have been estimated based on type, transport, application, and end-user industry of the electrical steel market. Market revenue and volume size have been provided in terms of global, regional, and country level markets.



The report comprises profiles of major companies operating in the global electrical steel market. Key players operating in the electrical steel market include Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation (NSSMC) Group, Shandong Iron and Steel Group Co Ltd, JFE Steel Corporation, SAIL (Steel Authority of India Limited), Shagang Group Inc., ArcelorMittal, AnSteel Group Corporation, BaoSteel Group (Baowu Steel Group Corporation Limited), POSCO, Voestalpine Group, Tata Steel Limited, United States Steel Corporation, Jindal Steel and Power Limited, and HBIS Group. Market players have been profiled in terms of attributes such as company overview, financial overview, business strategies, and recent developments.



The global electrical steel market has been segmented as follows:



Electrical Steel Market, by Type

Grain Oriented

Non-grain Oriented



Electrical Steel Market, by Application

Transformer

Inductor

Motor

Rotor

Stator

Others



Others

Electrical Steel Market, by End-user Industry

Automotive

Manufacturing

Energy

Household Appliances

Others



Electrical Steel Market, by Region

North America

U.S.

Canada

Europe

Germany

U.K.

France

Spain

Italy

Russia & CIS

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

India

Japan

ASEAN

Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

Brazil

Mexico

Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa (MEA)

GCC

South Africa

Rest of Middle East & Africa

Key Takeaways



Currently, Asia Pacific is a leading consumer as well as producer of electrical steel in terms of revenue and volume.This is ascribed primarily to the rise in urbanization and industrialization in developing economies such as China and India.



The surplus of steel is significantly high due to overcapacity.This has led to closure of various steel mills in China.



This is expected to impact the global supply as well as demand for electrical steel and counterparts.

The prices of steel plates, rebars, cold-rolled coils, and hot rolled coils have been rising across the globe. This trend is likely to continue in the near future.



Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05482748



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



__________________________

Contact Clare: [email protected]

US: (339)-368-6001

Intl: +1 339-368-6001

SOURCE Reportlinker

Related Links

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COLLIERVILLE, Tenn., Aug 7. 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Enjoin, the leader in physician-led clinical documentation integrity today announced the launch of its Pre-visit Planning program, which allows for the complete capture of conditions relevant to a patient's experience across the continuum of care while optimizing healthcare organizations' risk scores.

"We are excited to unveil our Pre-visit Planning program to the healthcare community," said Dr. James Fee, CEO, Enjoin. "With this program, healthcare providers will be able to get an accurate picture of patient populationsseverity, complexity and chronic conditions, and also optimize reimbursement, minimize penalties and protect quality scores."

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services released data earlier this year showing that Medicare Advantage enrollment has tripled from 2004 to 2017, accounting for 33 percent of the Medicare population. In addition, the number of ACOs has more than doubled since 2013.

With the surge in the MSSP ACO model, healthcare providers stand to gain learning opportunities related to reimbursement and risk scores. Enjoin's Pre-visit Planning program underscores the new industry shift by enabling providers to gain actionable insights from their patient populations. "Precision data is the future of healthcare," said Sonia Trepina, Director of Ambulatory CDI, Enjoin. "With the advancement of Medicare Advantage and ACOs becoming crucial, provider practices are adopting pre-visit planning to support movement toward value-based care."

The Pre-visit Planning program focuses on comprehensive risk adjustment and ensures data integrity that is necessary to effectively drive population health management. Program capabilities include:

Analysis of patient population

Identication of suspect conditions and compliance opportunities

Continuous data refresh and analysis to monitor performance

The program delivers reliable, timely data while allowing physicians to focus on quality of care.

Click here for more pre-visit planning program details.

About Enjoin

With 30 years of direct physician leadership, Enjoin ensures evidenced-based care is accurately reflected through precise documentation and coding for value-based reimbursement. Enjoin clients achieve a demonstrable improvement in CMI, coding accuracy, quality metrics, risk adjustment and physician alignment. For more information, visit enjoincdi.com.

Media Contact:

Beth Friedman

Agency Ten22 for Enjoin

678.956.9680

[email protected]

Company Contact:

Mary McNerney, RHIA

Executive Director, Business Development and Marketing

Enjoin

803.462.0288

[email protected]

SOURCE Enjoin

Related Links

http://enjoincdi.com/


LOS ANGELES, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Film Independent, the non-profit arts organization that produces the Film Independent Spirit Awards and LA Film Festival, announced today the seven writers selected for its second Episodic Lab. The Film Independent Episodic Lab is supported by Lead Artist Development Funder the Time Warner Foundation and Founding Sponsor Netflix. Additional support is provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

The Lab is an intensive five-week program where Fellows gain the tools needed to revise and refine their pilots and navigate a changing industry landscape through personalized feedback from experienced showrunners, creative producers and executives. The 2018 Episodic Lab Creative Advisors and guest speakers include: Liz Flahive & Carly Mensch (GLOW), Elizabeth Guber Stephen of Gables Media, Glen Mazzara (The Walking Dead), Dawn Prestwich & Nicole Yorkin (The Killing), Kate Robin (One Mississippi) and Dailyn Rodriguez (Queen of the South). Fellows will be paired one-on-one with industry executive advisors and will have the opportunity to shadow in writers rooms of Netflix series. The Lab concludes with a pitch event introducing the Fellows' work to literary agents and managers as well as studio executives.

"We are thrilled to support such a distinctive group of writers in our second annual Episodic Lab. This year's projects are timely and diverse, spanning the narrative universe, including the psychedelic research of Timothy Leary, a sci-fi Greek tragedy and a misfit crew of Latinx teenagers using magical powers to protect their community at the border," said Jennifer Kushner, Director of Artist Development at Film Independent.

Film Independent will also present the Alfred P. Sloan Episodic Grant, a $10,000 development grant to support a pilot that explores science and technology themes or that depicts scientists, engineers and mathematicians in engaging and innovative ways, to Mirella Christou for her project Seven Eternities. As part of her Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship, Christou will receive a science advisor to support the development of the series which casts a new light on sixties counterculture and the experiments of clinical psychologist Timothy Leary.

Film Independent Artist Development programs promote unique independent voices by helping filmmakers create and advance new work through its Filmmaker Labs (Directing, Documentary, Episodic, Producing and Screenwriting), Grants Program which awards over $800,000 annually to filmmakers, the Fast Track finance market, Fiscal Sponsorship and Project Involve, celebrating 25 years of mentoring the next generation of visual storytellers and working toward an inclusive industry.

For more information on Film Independent Artist Development, please contact Jennifer Kushner, Director of Artist Development, at 323 556 9375. Additional information and an application form can be found at filmindependent.org.

The 2018 Episodic Lab participants and their projects are:

Title: Chingonas

Writer: Stephanie Adams-Santos

Writer/Director: Rosie Haber

Logline: When people start to go missing near the Mexican-US border, a modern Frida Kahlo and her misfit crew of Latinx Chingonas (bad-asses) must summon magical powers to protect their world.

Title: Monitor City

Writer: Rammy Park

Logline: A sci-fi Greek tragedy, Monitor City pits reluctant hero Olivia Andressa against a totalitarian system of control and surveillance, as she struggles to accept her role in the City's resistance movement while fighting to bring her fractured family back together.

Title: Outside of Philly

Writer: Henry "Hank" Jones

Logline: In an effort to be more "black," a suburban 10th grader befriends a new student with a troubled past from the city. When the two go to North Philly, they end up in a world of drug and violence-fueled trouble that ultimately cements their complicated friendship.

Title: Redd's Pond

Writer: Charley Casler

Logline: In the wake of a nor'easter that tears open a colonial cemetery, a storied New England community is forced to confront its historic ghosts as well as its contemporary demons when a scandal-plagued son returns home and a new family moves in next door.

Title: Seven Eternities

Writer: Mirella Christou

Logline: Seven Eternities follows Timothy Leary as he seeks to legitimize and evangelize psychedelic drugs, conducting ground-breaking yet controversial studies at Harvard, while being funded by intelligence conduits interested in psychological warfare.

Title: The Devil's Teeth

Writer: Christopher Abeel

Logline: A snuff tape launches a charismatic ex-con on a rogue crusade through the back alleys and dive bars of 90's New Jersey. When his Sheriff's Deputy daughter gets involved, they must set personal grudges aside in order to help him solve the larger mystery of the videotape's footage  her mother's occult ritual murder.

For Film Independent Logos visit

https://www.filmindependent.org/press/logos-and-laurels/

About Film Independent

Film Independent is the nonprofit arts organization that champions creative independence in visual storytelling and supports a community of artists who embody diversity, innovation and uniqueness of vision. Film Independent helps filmmakers make their movies, builds an audience for their projects, and works to diversify the film industry. Film Independent's Board of Directors, filmmakers, staff and constituents is comprised of an inclusive community of individuals across ability, age, ethnicity, gender, race and sexual orientation. Anyone passionate about film can become a Member, whether you are a filmmaker, industry professional or a film lover.

In addition to producing the Spirit Awards, Film Independent produces the LA Film Festival and a year-round screening series for its members that offers unique cinematic experiences for the Los Angeles creative community and the general public.

With over 250 annual screenings and events, Film Independent provides access to a network of like-minded artists who are driving creativity in the film industry. Film Independent's Artist Development program offers free Labs for selected writers, directors, producers and documentary filmmakers and presents year- round networking opportunities. Project Involve is Film Independent's signature program dedicated to fostering the careers of talented filmmakers from communities traditionally underrepresented in the film industry.

For more information or to become a Member, visit filmindependent.org.

Suggested Tweet: The 2nd annual @FilmIndependent Episodic Lab features timely and innovative projects from diverse voices spanning the narrative universe: https://bit.ly/2n5n56j.

Contact: Melanie Bates, Film Independent

Tel: 323.556.9338 or [email protected]

Ryan Collins, Ginsberg/Libby

Tel: 323 645 6800 or [email protected]

SOURCE Film Independent

Related Links

http://www.filmindependent.org


PITTSBURGH, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board today announced that Malcolm Gosling Jr. will sign pre-purchased bottles of Gosling's Rum products at two Pittsburgh Fine Wine & Good Spirits Premium Collection stores on Thursday, Aug. 9.

Founded in 1806, Gosling's is the oldest business in and largest exporter out of Bermuda, and Gosling's Black Seal Rum has become synonymous with the island territory. Malcolm Gosling Jr. is the eighth generation of this family-owned business and is entrusted with continuing the global expansion of Goslings Rum and Goslings Stormy Ginger Beer.

On Thursday, Aug. 9, Gosling will be at the following Pittsburgh Fine Wine & Good Spirits Premium Collection stores at the times noted:

One Oxford Centre, 320 Smithfield St., from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM

5956 Centre Ave. from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Fine Wine & Good Spirits customers 21 years of age and older can sample the following spirits at the events:

Gosling's Family Reserve Old Rum (Code 74270), $69.99

Goslings Black Seal Bermuda Black Rum (Code 6913), $15.99 (save $3 )

(save ) Goslings Stormy Ginger Beer (Code 1254), $4.99 (six-pack  save $1 )

The PLCB regulates the distribution of beverage alcohol in Pennsylvania, operates more than 600 wine and spirits stores statewide, and licenses 20,000 alcohol producers, retailers, and handlers. The PLCB also works to reduce and prevent dangerous and underage drinking through partnerships with schools, community groups, and licensees. Taxes and store profits  totaling $15.8 billion since the agency's inception  are returned to Pennsylvania's General Fund, which finances Pennsylvania's schools, health and human services programs, law enforcement, and public safety initiatives, among other important public services. The PLCB also provides financial support for the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement, the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, other state agencies, and local municipalities across the state. For more information about the PLCB, visit www.lcb.pa.gov.

MEDIA CONTACT: Shawn M. Kelly, 717.783.8864

SOURCE Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board

Related Links

http://www.lcb.state.pa.us


Organized by the Taiwan Ministry of Culture and executed by Taiwan Design Center, the project was launched in 2012 on a mission to elevate the profile of Taiwanese design around the globe. Last year at NY NOW, Fresh Taiwan's Studio Lim was selected from among thousands of other entrants for inclusion in the trade show's Sustainability themed exhibition. Guests at the Fresh Taiwan booth included representatives from one of the biggest US homeware retailers ABC Carpet & Home, as well as e-commerce giant Amazon, British fashion brand Paul Smith, lifestyle and fashion select shop The Line, and NYC stationery store Goods for the Study. Corporate gift buyers from Uber, Four Seasons, and Mandarin Oriental, also showed interest in purchasing products from Fresh Taiwan brands. This is Fresh Taiwan's second international event in 2018, having already exhibited at Ambiente in Frankfurt, while later this year it heads to BIG + BIH in Bangkok.

If you're heading to NY NOW, don't miss Fresh Taiwan, booth 3930 in Hall 3A, Accent on Design. This year's special feature is an experiential cold drip tea and coffee bar where you can enjoy a mug of home roasted coffee, or a delicate cup of Longjing tea. The cold drip tea and coffee is infused for 6 hours using the Cold Brew System designed by [bi.du.haev] and the coffee beans are specially roasted by the designers at HMM. Both brands are exhibiting new tea and coffee lifestyle products.

Artisan Tea and Coffee

The trend in artisan tea and coffee reflects a spirit of connoisseurship, which is engrained into the lives of all modern day urbanists. Taiwan has a rich culture of tea that goes back centuries, as well as a booming contemporary movement in the third wave of coffee. Artisan tea and coffee lifestyle products, such as utensils for pour-over coffee and cold brew systems, are becoming an essential part of daily life. None echo this trend more so than [bi.du.haev] a niche lifestyle design brand that specializes in elegantly crafted instruments for brewing tea and coffee. Its products excel in both form and function; both ornamental and practical; comprised of haute materials such as art glass, brass, copper, merbau wood, and ceramics. You can sample cold brew tea and coffee from the [bi.du.haev] Cold Brew System at the Fresh Taiwan booth throughout NY NOW.

In a completely different style, HMM is hoping to win over the hearts of American retailers with Mugr and Sqoop. Better known for its stationery products, HMM considers coffee an essential ingredient for any creative workspace, complimenting its well established stationery range. Mugr and Sqoop are a mug and coffee serving spoon, designed for creative professionals. The designers at HMM are passionate about coffee, and you can try their home roasted coffee at the Fresh Taiwan booth throughout NY NOW.

Avant Garde Stationery

Among all forms of art and design, the avant garde leads the way. The radical angles and edgy aesthetics of avant garde design is spurred along by cultural trends and technological innovation. Taiwanese designers are perhaps some of the most avant garde when it comes to stationery, and the minimalist aesthetic of Beyond Object stationery certainly makes a statement. Align - Twist Pen, and LINO - Letter Opener for example, look as if they were designed for space travel.

Singular Concept is not just a stationery brand; Singular Concept designs home decor and accessories. All Singular Concept products are born out of the same avant garde design philosophy, which emphasizes abstraction of form. Junction Desk Organizer is exemplary; abstracted from industrial features in abandoned factories, such as pumping valves and drainage pipes.

Boho Chic Accessories

Bohemian fashion is back, and Taiwanese designers are leading the trend. PARSEC Design Studio showcases a range of accessories made from its own patented material called Treether, which looks like wood, but feels like leather. The properties of wood and leather imbue Treether with a sense of nature and warmth. The collection includes a long wallet and name card case, as well as notebooks and more. Ideas of the eastern and the exotic are presented in jewelry, sunglasses, and other wearable accessories, designed by Magi-Steel. 'Butterfly @ Taiwan, Detachable Necklace' is a beautiful necklace that can be customized with interchangeable butterfly wings in many choices of colors and patterns. Similarly, Window Flower Bracelet is an elegant wrist bracelet, inspired by the cultural patterns of ornate Taiwanese windows.

Organic Ceramic Homeware

Artists and designers tend to cherish the happy accidents that occur during experimentation in craftsmanship. Yenchenyawen Design Studio and Studio Lim have developed organic processes for creating one-off patterned ceramics, crafted to make homeware products. Yenchenyawen Design Studio calls its branded ceramic 'Landscape of Oxidation', combining processes of copper patination and iron oxidation. Its Jesmonite collection includes a tea light holder, jewelry tray, necklaces, an incense burner, and LED nightlight. The brand's latest Jesmonite product is a custom Bespoke Surface, which can be scaled to meet all needs from tabletops to light switches. Studio Lim calls its ceramic collection Fibrewood Objects, produced using traditional Taiwanese lacquerware techniques, mixed with natural plant fibre such as flax. The brand's signature style, 'Frosted Gold' incorporates golden flecks of wood, hence the name 'Fibrewood Objects'. The collection includes coasters, dessert plates, and trays for accessories in multiple sizes.

Bedroom Bird Pendants

Everyone has a place in their heart for birds, which signify the spirit of freedom and limitlessness. Designs featuring birds can make beautifully romantic bedroom decorations for people of all ages. Mimicking the appearance of a caged song bird, JinGoo - Wireless Audio Light by DAQI Concept is an ambient light and bluetooth speaker. The name, "Jingoo" refers to the melodious singing of the oriole bird in ancient Chinese poetry. JinGoo is already retailed at the prestigious MoMA Design Store in New York. People of all ages need inspiration, therefore bird pendants make a delightful decoration for the bedroom of a growing child as well. Designed by eguchi toys, Mobile bird - Pelican is a playful, mobile pendant with a wonderful motion. This decorative toy presents the myth of the stork that carries newborn babies into the world in the form of a good, old-fashioned mobile pendant, which is sure stimulate a growing child's imagination.

Fresh Taiwan at NY NOW for a Third Year  Making Strides in the US Market

The NY NOW Summer Market is where US and multinational retailers go to discover the hottest home, lifestyle, and gift products from all around the globe. Founded in 1928, the trade show is held twice every year in January and August, and annually it attracts over 2,500 exhibitors with more than 100,000 products, along with over 55,000 buyers from 74 countries and regions. The past two years have brought great success Taiwanese designers, having secured deals with major retailers and corporate buyers. Fresh Taiwan is pedaling for a third successful year at NY NOW with more media exposure and business opportunities than ever before. To find out more, please visit: https://ccimarketing.org.tw/en

Fresh Taiwan at NY NOW 2018

WHEN: August 12-15, 2018

WHERE: Level 3, Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, NY

BOOTH: 3930 in Hall 3A, Accent on Design

Brand Name Brand Website HMM www.hmmproject.com Studio Lim www.studiolim.co DAQI Concept www.daqiconcept.com PARSEC Design Studio www.parsec-ds.com Eguchi Toys www.eguchitoys.com [bi.du.haev] www.biduhaev.com Singular Concept www.singularconcept.work Beyond Object www.beyond-object.com Yenchenyawen Design Studio www.yenchenyawen.com Magi-Steel www.magi-steel.com.tw

Media contacts:

Daniel Cunningham, International PR & Marketing Project Manager, DDG / +886 2-23117007 #406 / [email protected]

Belinda Chen, Project Manager, Taiwan Design Center / +886 2-2745-8199 #592 / [email protected]

SOURCE Taiwan Design Center

Related Links

https://ccimarketing.org.tw/en


DALLAS, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- GHR Healthcare announced today that their acute care divisions, General Healthcare Resources and GHR Travel Nursing, earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Healthcare Staffing Services Certification by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal of Approval is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization's commitment to providing qualified and competent healthcare professionals.

GHR Travel Nursing

"It is so rewarding to have our quality and compliance standards recognized in this way," said Janet Elkin, President and CEO of GHR Healthcare. "We believe that The Joint Commission accreditation is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to provide the hospitals we serve with compliant, qualified nurses they can depend on. Each and every time."

Both General Healthcare Resources and GHR Travel Nursing divisions underwent an on-site review of its compliance with national standards that assess how staffing firms determine the qualifications and competency of their staff, how they place their staff, and how they monitor staff's performance.

"General Healthcare Resources and GHR Travel Nursing have demonstrated their commitment to providing quality healthcare staffing services to healthcare organizations as evidenced by their achievement of Joint Commission certification," said Patrick Phelan, executive director, Hospital Business Development, The Joint Commission. "We recognized and commend both groups for their effort

The Joint Commission's certification program, launched in October 2004, offers an independent, comprehensive evaluation of a staffing firm's abilities to provide competent staffing services. Certification recognizes a company's dedication to providing nurses who are qualified to provide safe, high-quality care to patients.

General Healthcare Resources provides Registered Nurses and LPN/LVNs for acute care hospitals across the Northeast and Southwest through their Plymouth Meeting, PA and Dallas, TX locations, while GHR Travel Nursing provides acute care support across the United States.

About GHR Healthcare, General Healthcare Resources and GHR Travel Nursing

GHR Healthcare is the parent company to a family of operating brands focused on healthcare and community-based staffing. Through acquisition and organic expansion, the company includes 10 locations and 2 national divisions, providing travel nursing, per diem nursing, allied, pharmacy, human services, education, healthcare IT, and direct hire support nationwide. General Healthcare Resources is based in Plymouth Meeting, PA and GHR Travel Nursing is based in Buffalo, NY. For more information, visit www.GHRHealthcare.com.

The Joint Commission

Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve health care for the public, in collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating health care organizations and inspiring them to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value. The Joint Commission accredits and certifies more than 21,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. An independent, nonprofit organization, The Joint Commission is the nation's oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care. Learn more about The Joint Commission at www.jointcommission.org .

CONTACT:

Mike Dunagan, Chief Marketing Officer

404-834-8180

[email protected]

Website: www.GHResources.com

SOURCE GHR Healthcare

Related Links

http://www.ghrhealthcare.com


SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- GI Partners announced today that it has completed the previously announced acquisition and merger of California Cryobank (CCB), the world's premier donor sperm and egg bank, and Cord Blood Registry (CBR), the world's largest stem cell collection and storage company. The combined company, which will operate under the California Cryobank Life Sciences name, is the leading player in the stem cell storage and reproductive tissue services markets.

The two best-in-class companies have joined to help nearly 700,000 families across more than 30 countries. The organization's full family-focused suite includes cord blood and cord tissue collection and storage, frozen donor sperm and frozen donor egg services, and fertility preservation storage services.

The combined company represents the fifth platform investment in GI Partners Fund V, a $2.8 billion private equity fund raised in 2017. Harris Williams served as financial advisor and Paul Hastings acted as legal advisor to GI Partners. Financing for the transaction was provided by Golub Capital and Owl Rock.

About California Cryobank Life Sciences

California Cryobank Life Sciences ("California Cryobank") is the clear market leader across the donor reproductive tissue and newborn stem cell collection and storage industries, offering a full family-focused suite of services. The company has helped nearly 700,000 families across more than 30 countries. The organization's best-in-class Life Sciences platform includes cord blood and cord tissue collection and storage, frozen donor sperm and frozen donor egg services, and fertility preservation storage services. Through its leading positions across these categories, the company continues to fulfill its mission of helping grow and protect families around the world. For more information on California Cryobank, please visit www.californiacryobank.com.

About GI Partners

GI Partners is a private investment firm based in San Francisco. The firm has raised $16 billion in capital from leading institutional investors across the globe. GI Partners' private equity team focuses on investments in the IT Infrastructure, Healthcare, Software, and Services sectors. For more information on GI Partners and its entire portfolio, please visit www.gipartners.com.

Media Contacts:

Chris Tofalli Caroline Schimmelbusch Chris Tofalli Public Relations LLC GI Partners Investor Relations 914-834-4334 415-688-4800 [email protected] [email protected]

SOURCE GI Partners

Related Links

https://www.gipartners.com


DUBLIN, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

The "Injection Molding Machine Market by Product Type (Plastic, Rubber, Metal), Machine Type (Hydraulic, All-Electric, Hybrid), End-Use Industry (Automotive, Packaging, Consumer Goods), Clamping Force (0-200, 201-500, Above 500) - Global Forecast to 2023" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The injection molding machine market is estimated to be USD 17.08 billion in 2018 and is projected reach USD 19.68 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 2.9% between 2018 and 2023. The growth of the market is driven by the high demand from the packaging industry, rising demand for energy saving, growing automotive industry, and advancements in injection molding technology.



On the basis of product type, the injection molding machine market has been segmented into plastic, rubber, metal, ceramic, and others. The plastic segment is estimated to lead the injection molding machine market in 2018, in terms of value. The demand for plastic injection molding machines is primarily driven by the increased demand from the automotive, consumer goods, and packaging end-use industries. Plastic injection molding machines facilitate the fast production of plastic parts with reduced waste at lower costs. These machines also enable the use of a wide variety of material types such as nylon, polycarbonate, polystyrene, and polypropylene.



On the basis of machine type, the injection molding machine market has been segmented into hydraulic, all-electric, and hybrid. The hydraulic segment accounted for the largest share, in terms of value, of the injection molding machine market in 2018. The dominance of hydraulic injection molding is expected to continue during the forecast period owing to its enhanced performance and low maintenance cost. Also, the increasing demand from the automotive, consumer goods, and packaging various end-use industries is fueling the growth of the hydraulic injection molding machine market.



On the basis of end-use industry, the injection molding machine market has been segmented into automotive, packaging, consumer goods, healthcare, electrical & electronics, and others. The automotive end-use industry segment is estimated to grow at the highest rate, in terms of both, value and volume, during the forecast period. The growth of this segment can be attributed to the increasing production of vehicles and rising demand for lightweight automotive components in developed and emerging regions.



Asia Pacific is estimated to be the fastest-growing region for injection molding machines during the forecast period, in terms of value. Rapidly growing end-use industries, competitive manufacturing costs, rising demand from the automotive industry, and high economic growth rates are the major factors for the growth of the injection molding machine market in this region.



The use of injection molding machines for lower production capacities is less economical, which is a major factor restraining the growth of the market.



New product launches, expansions, contracts & agreements, and acquisitions were the key strategies adopted by players in the injection molding machine market. Major players in the injection molding machine market include Haitian International (China), Chen Hsong (China), Milacron (US), The Japan Steel Works (Japan), Sumitomo Heavy Industries (Japan), Arburg (Germany), Nessei Plastic (Japan), Husky (Canada), and Engel (Austria)

Key Topics Covered:



1 Introduction



2 Research Methodology



3 Executive Summary



4 Premium Insights

4.1 Attractive Opportunities in the Injection Molding Machine Market

4.2 APAC Injection Molding Machine Market, By End-Use Industry and Country

4.3 Injection Molding Machine Market, By Region

4.4 Injection Molding Machine Market, By Region and End-Use Industry

4.5 Injection Molding Machine Market, By Key Countries



5 Market Overview

5.1 Introduction

5.2 Market Dynamics

5.2.1 Drivers

5.2.1.1 High Demand From the Packaging Industry

5.2.1.2 Rising Awareness About Energy Saving

5.2.1.3 Growing Automotive Industry in APAC

5.2.1.4 Advancements in Injection Molding Technology

5.2.2 Opportunities

5.2.2.1 Growing Demand From the Healthcare Industry

5.2.3 Challenges

5.2.3.1 High Heating and Hydraulic Pressure

5.2.3.2 Less Economical for Small Production Capacities

5.3 Technology Overview

5.4 Porter's Five Forces Analysis

5.4.1 Threat of Substitutes

5.4.2 Threat of New Entrants

5.4.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

5.4.4 Bargaining Power of Buyers

5.4.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

5.5 Macroeconomic Indicators

5.5.1 GDP Forecast of Major Economies

5.5.2 Trends and Forecast of Automotive Industry and Its Impact on Injection Molding Machine Market



6 Injection Molding Machine Market, By Product Type

6.1 Introduction

6.2 Plastic

6.2.1 Thermoplastics

6.2.2 Thermosets

6.3 Rubber

6.4 Metal

6.4.1 Powder

6.4.2 Liquid

6.5 Ceramic

6.6 Others



7 Injection Molding Machine Market, By Machine Type

7.1 Introduction

7.2 Hydraulic Injection Molding Machine

7.3 All-Electric Injection Molding Machine

7.4 Hybrid Injection Molding Machine



8 Injection Molding Machine Market, By Clamping Force

8.1 Introduction

8.2 0-200 Ton-Force

8.3 201-500 Ton-Force

8.4 Above 500 Ton-Force



9 Injection Molding Machine Market, By End-Use Industry

9.1 Introduction

9.2 Automotive

9.3 Consumer Goods

9.4 Packaging

9.5 Healthcare

9.6 Electrical & Electronics

9.7 Others



10 Injection Molding Machine Market, By Region



11 Competitive Landscape

11.1 Introduction

11.2 Market Share of Key Players

11.2.1 Haitian International Holdings Limited

11.2.2 Chen Hsong Holdings Limited

11.2.3 Engel Austria GmbH

11.2.4 Sumitomo Heavy Industries Limited

11.2.5 Milacron Holdings Corp.

11.3 Competitive Scenario

11.3.1 Expansions

11.3.2 New Product Launches

11.3.3 Contracts & Agreements

11.3.4 Acquisitions



12 Company Profiles



Arburg GmbH & Co. Kg

Boco Pardubice Machines S.R.O.

Borche North America Inc.

Chen Hsong Holdings Limited

Dongshin Hydraulic Co., Ltd.

Dr. Boy GmbH & Co. Kg

Engel Austria GmbH

Fu Chun Shin Machinery Manufacture Co., Ltd.

Haitian International Holdings Limited

Huarong Plastic Machinery Co., Ltd.

Husky Injection Molding Systems Ltd

Kraussmaffei Group GmbH

Milacron Holdings Corp.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Plastic Technology Co., Ltd.

Mold Hotrunner Solutions Ltd.

Multiplas Enginery Co., Ltd.

Negri Bossi S.P.A .

. Nigata Machine Techno Company, Ltd.

Nissei Plastic Industrial Co., Ltd

Oima SRL

R.P. Injection SRL

SMF Maschinenfabrik GmbH

Sumitomo Heavy Industries Limited

The Japan Steel Works Ltd.

Toshiba Machine Co., Ltd.

Toyo Machinery & Metal Co., Ltd.

Woojin Plaimm Co., Ltd.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/44tm5k/global_injection?w=5



Media Contact:

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DUBLIN, Aug 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

The "Metallized Film Market by Material Type (PP and PET), Metal (Aluminum), End-use Industry (Packaging, Decorative), and Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South America) - Global Forecast to 2023" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The metallized film market is estimated at USD 2.20 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach USD 2.82 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 5.09%. The market is driven by the wide use of metallized film in end-use industries, such as packaging and decorative.

Based on material, the polypropylene (PP) segment is estimated to account for the largest share of the metallized film market in 2018. PP metallized film is a good moisture barrier but poor oxygen barrier. This film is metallized to improve its barrier properties and to increase the shelf life of packed products. Owing to its resistance to chemicals and its low odor, this film is suitable for use in applications regulated under the FDA regulations. The use of PP metallized film in packaging application for products which require a long shelf life, such as food, bakery products, snacks, and candies, is driving the growth of this market. This film is also widely used in the electrical & electronics industry for communication equipment, timing circuit, and filter networks. These factors are the key drivers for the glass fiber metallized film market.

Aluminum metallized film is expected to be the largest segment, by metal, during the forecast period. Aluminum metallized film offers excellent barrier performance against water vapor & gases, good metal bond strength, glossy appearance, good lamination bond strength, and good thermal & mechanical properties. Aluminum metallized film is used in packaging for snacks, frozen foods, sweets and pastries, frozen desserts, coffee pouches, and so on. Stand-up pouches allow printing of high-quality, glossy graphics on the package, which makes them attractive and appealing to customers. Such factors are expected to drive the demand for aluminum metallized film in Europe.

Based on end-use industry, the packaging segment is estimated to account for the largest share of the metallized film market in 2018. Metallized film is used to add barrier property in the packaging of processed fruits and vegetables, beverages, snacks, coffee, and tobacco products. Packages using metallized film are formed into pouches, sacks, bag-in-box bags, or other types of packages. Owing to busy and hectic lifestyles, consumers opt for convenient mealtime solutions. This puts ready-to-eat meals in flexible packaging formats in a good position to take advantage of the current social and economic trend. Flexible packaging is the most cost-effective method to package, preserve, and distribute food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, and other products that need extended shelf life. These factors are expected to drive the demand for metallized film in the packaging industry.

The Europe metallized film market is expected to witness strong growth in the next five years. The major factor behind Europe's high market share is the high demand for lightweight, consumer-friendly, and easy to handle products. Growing focus on sustainability, increased need for extended shelf life, rising standards of hygiene, and consumer focus on ease of use are the key drivers of the metallized film market in the region.

The APAC metallized film market is projected to witness the highest growth from 2018 to 2023, mainly due to the rapid expansion of end-use industries such as food & beverages, healthcare, and cosmetics & toiletries. Factors such as rising disposable income, changing lifestyles, and growing middle-class population are expected to drive the demand for packaging, which, in turn, is expected to support the growth of the metallized film market. Moreover, the rising demand for ready-to-eat food, convenience food, and processed & semi-processed food offer growth opportunities for the metallized film market in APAC.

However, the use of metallized film has certain drawbacks regarding product inspection, especially in food packaging. Metal detectors struggle to meet the specifications required by retailers/consumers when inspecting products in metallized film-coated pouches. This drawback limits the use of metallized film in food packaging applications.

Key players operating in the texture paint market include Cosmo Films Ltd. (India), Jindal Poly Films Ltd. (India), Polinas (Turkey), and Toray Industries Inc. (Japan).

Key Topics Covered:



1 Introduction



2 Research Methodology

2.1 Research Data

2.2 Market Size Estimation

2.3 Data Triangulation

2.4 Assumptions and Limitations



3 Executive Summary



4 Premium Insights

4.1 Attractive Opportunities for Market Players

4.2 Metallized Film Market, By Metal

4.3 Metallized Film Market, By Material

4.4 Metallized Film Market, Developed vs Developing Countries

4.5 Europe Metallized Film Market, By End-Use Industry and Country

4.6 Metallized Film Market, By Country



5 Market Overview

5.1 Introduction

5.2 Market Dynamics

5.2.1 Drivers

5.2.1.1 Demand for Longer Shelf Life of Food Products

5.2.1.2 Increasing Demand for Customer-Friendly Packaging

5.2.1.3 Rising Demand From End Users

5.2.2 Restraints

5.2.2.1 Stringent Regulations on Automotive Films in Various Countries

5.2.3 Opportunities

5.2.3.1 Increasing Uses of Metallized Film in Electronics Industry

5.2.4 Challenges

5.2.4.1 Issues in Product Inspection

5.3 Porter's Five Forces Analysis

5.3.1 Threat of New Entrants

5.3.2 Threat of Substitutes

5.3.3 Bargaining Power of Buyers

5.3.4 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

5.3.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

5.4 Macroeconomic Overview and Key Trends

5.4.1 Trends and Forecast of GDP

5.4.2 Increase in Middle-Class Population, 2009-2030

5.4.3 Region-Wise Forecast of Food & Beverages Packaging Industry

5.4.4 Trends and Forecasts of Pharmaceutical Industry, By Region



6 Metallized Film Market, By Metal

6.1 Introduction

6.2 Aluminum

6.3 Others



7 Metallized Film Market, By Material

7.1 Introduction

7.2 Polypropylene (PP)

7.3 Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

7.4 Others



8 Metallized Film Market, By End-Use Industry

8.1 Introduction

8.2 Packaging

8.2.1 Food & Beverages

8.2.2 Healthcare

8.2.3 Personal Care

8.2.4 PET Food

8.2.5 Esd Packaging

8.3 Decorative

8.4 Others



9 Metallized Film Market, By Region



10 Competitive Landscape

10.1 Overview

10.2 Competitive Scenario

10.2.1 New Product Launch

10.2.2 Expansion



11 Company Profiles

11.1 Cosmo Films Limited

11.2 Jindal Poly Films Limited

11.3 Uflex Ltd.

11.4 Polyplex Corporation Ltd.

11.5 Toray Industries Inc.

11.6 Taghleef Industries

11.7 Bollore Inc.

11.8 Polinas

11.9 Ester Industries

11.10 Dunmore

11.11 Additional Key Companies

11.11.1 SRF Limited

11.11.2 Avery Dennison Corporation

11.11.3 Celplast Metallized Products Limited

11.11.4 Ultimate Films

11.11.5 Patidar Corporation

11.11.6 Accured Plastics Ltd.

11.11.7 Rol-Vac, LP

11.11.8 All Foils Inc.

11.11.9 Manucor S.P.A.

11.11.10 Klckner Pentaplast

11.11.11 Jolybar Filmtechnic Converting Ltd.

11.11.12 Zhejiang Pengyuan New Material Co. Ltd.

11.11.13 Chiripal Poly Films

11.11.14 Kaveri Metallising & Coating Ind. Private Limited



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/nwrbx4/global_metallized?w=5





Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

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SOURCE Research and Markets

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ST. LOUIS, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- American Healthcare Investors, LLC and Griffin Capital Company, LLC, the co-sponsors of Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV, Inc., announced today that the REIT has acquired Pinnacle Warrenton Assisted Living Facility, a 53-unit assisted living facility located in the St. Louis suburb of Warrenton, Missouri, for $8.1 million.

The acquisition was completed pursuant to a joint venture with an affiliate of Meridian Senior Living, LLC, which will manage the portfolio on a day-to-day basis. Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV owns approximately 98 percent of the joint venture and acts as its managing member. The facility was acquired under a RIDEA1 structure, which allows for the joint venture partners to participate in both the rental and operational cash flow of the property.

Pinnacle Warrenton Assisted Living Facility totals approximately 34,000 square feet and has an occupancy rate of approximately 91 percent as of the date of acquisition. During the past five years, approximately $1 million in capital investments have been made to modernize and improve the property by the former owner. The facility's payor mix is 100 percent private pay.

Washington, D.C.-based Meridian Senior Living is an experienced senior housing operator, which manages a portfolio valued in excess of $1.3 billion throughout 21 states and the District of Columbia. The company employs more than 4,700 professionals who care for approximately 5,600 senior residents in 86 communities.

"Pinnacle Warrenton Assisted Living Facility is the only licensed property of its type in the area, which we believe will allow us to further increase the already strong occupancy and value of the facility," said Stefan Oh, executive vice president of acquisitions for American Healthcare Investors and Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV. "Additionally, the acquisition further strengthens our relationship with Meridian Senior Living, a sophisticated operator and the day-to-day manager of the building."

The acquisition of Pinnacle Warrenton Assisted Living Facility expands the joint venture relationship between Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV and Meridian Senior Living to a total of 12 senior housing buildings located in Florida, Texas and Missouri.

Pinnacle Warrenton Assisted Living Facility was acquired from Warrenton Clearpath Property Investment, LLC, an unaffiliated third party represented by Jeff Binder of Senior Living Investment Brokerage, Inc. Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV financed the acquisition using cash on hand and borrowings under its revolving line of credit with Bank of America, N.A. and Keybank, National Association.

Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV purchased its first property in June 2016 and, as of the date of acquisition of Warrenton Assisted Living Facility, has since acquired a 3.0 million-square-foot portfolio of 49 medical office buildings, senior housing facilities and skilled nursing facilities located in 20 states for an aggregate contract purchase price of approximately $618.7 million. Additionally, the company is pursuing approximately $412.3 million in additional pending acquisitions2 which would result in a total portfolio of approximately 98 healthcare buildings located in 22 states comprised of approximately 4.7 million square feet of gross leasable area upon the successful completion of these potential acquisitions.

1 The operation of healthcare-related facilities utilizing the structure permitted by the REIT Investment Diversification and Empowerment Act of 2007 is commonly referred to as a "RIDEA" structure. 2 Comprised of prospective real estate acquisitions for which the company has executed letters of intent and/or purchase and sale agreements as of July 20, 2018. These prospective acquisitions are subject to substantial closing conditions and the satisfaction of other requirements as detailed in the agreements. Accordingly, the closing of some or all of these pending transactions may not occur.

About American Healthcare Investors, LLC

American Healthcare Investors is an investment management firm that specializes in the acquisition and management of healthcare-related real estate. One of the world's largest managers of healthcare real estate, the company oversees an approximately 31 million-square-foot portfolio valued at approximately $8.9 billion, based on aggregate purchase price, on behalf of multiple investment programs that include thousands of individual and institutional investors. As of March 31, 2018, this international portfolio includes approximately 600 buildings comprised of medical office buildings, hospitals, senior housing, skilled nursing facilities and integrated senior health campuses located throughout the United States and the United Kingdom. The company and its principals have completed approximately $26 billion in aggregate acquisition and disposition transactions, approximately $16 billion of which have been healthcare-related. American Healthcare Investors is committed to providing investors with access to the potential benefits that healthcare-related real estate ownership can provide. For more information regarding American Healthcare Investors, please visit www.AmericanHealthcareInvestors.com.

About Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV, Inc.

Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV intends to build a balanced and diversified portfolio of healthcare real estate assets, focusing primarily on medical office buildings, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, senior housing and other healthcare-related facilities. Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV also seeks to provide: portfolio diversification, preservation of capital, monthly distributions and capital appreciation by increasing the value of its properties for its stockholders. Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV qualified to be taxed as a real estate investment trust for federal income tax purposes beginning with its taxable year ended December 31, 2016, and it intends to continue to qualify to be taxed as a REIT. The REIT is co-sponsored by American Healthcare Investors and Griffin Capital Company, LLC. For more information regarding Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV, please visit www.healthcarereitiv.com.

About Griffin Capital Company, LLC

Griffin Capital Company, LLC ("Griffin Capital") is a leading alternative investment asset manager with approximately $10.5 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2018. Founded in 1995, the privately-held firm is led by a seasoned team of senior executives with more than two decades of investment and real estate experience and who collectively have executed more than 650 transactions valued in excess of $22 billion. The firm manages, sponsors or co-sponsors a suite of carefully curated, institutional quality investment solutions distributed by Griffin Capital Securities, LLC to retail investors through a community of partners, including independent and insurance broker-dealers, wirehouses, registered investment advisory firms and the financial advisors who work with these enterprises. Additional information about Griffin Capital is available at www.griffincapital.com.

This release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, including statements with respect to the potential increase in occupancy at Pinnacle Warrenton Assisted Living Facility and the impact such expansion may have on the property's value, the rental and operational cash flow of the property, the value of the relationship with Meridian Senior Living as an operator and the completion of pending acquisitions. We intend for all forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act, as applicable by law. Because such statements include risks, uncertainties and contingencies, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and contingencies include, but are not limited to, the following: our strength and financial condition; the uncertainties relating to the medical needs and local economy of Warrenton, Missouri and the surrounding community; our continuing relationship with Meridian Senior Living and that entity's strength and financial condition; the uncertainties relating to changes in general economic and real estate conditions; the substantial closing conditions and satisfaction of other requirements detailed in the letters of intent and purchase and sale agreements for pending acquisitions; the uncertainties regarding changes in the healthcare industry; the uncertainties relating to the implementation of Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV's real estate investment strategy; and other risk factors as detailed from time to time in Griffin-American Healthcare REIT IV's periodic reports, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements in this document speak only as of the date on which such statements were made, and we undertake no obligation to update any such statements that may become untrue because of subsequent events.

Contact: Damon Elder

Spotlight Marketing Communications

(949) 427-5172 ext. 702

[email protected]

SOURCE American Healthcare Investors

Related Links

http://www.AmericanHealthcareInvestors.com


BRAINTREE, Mass., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Haemonetics Corporation (NYSE: HAE) today announced the appointment of Josep Lluis Llorens as Senior Vice President, Global Manufacturing and Supply Chain, effective August 20, 2018. He will report to Haemonetics' Chief Executive Officer Chris Simon.

Llorens will focus on meaningfully expanding capacity, upscaling strategic sourcing and driving greater throughput, as well as network and SKU rationalization, product teardowns, EHS (environment, health and safety) and the company's cross-functional Product Quality Initiative.

"Josep has more than 30 years of experience leading numerous turnarounds in global health care and consumer businesses across disposables, capital equipment, devices and software," said Simon. "He has a proven track record of driving quality improvement, cost savings and operational efficiency, which fits hand-in-hand with our accelerated growth plans. We are pleased to welcome him to the leadership team."

Llorens joins Haemonetics from Philips, where he held various Operations and Supply Chain roles within the Diagnostics and Treatment, Patient Monitoring and Cardiac Care businesses. Most recently he was Senior Vice President, Industrial Strategy and Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Leader for Philips Healthcare Diagnostic Imaging. He was previously Senior Vice President, Head of Supply Chain, Sales and Operations Planning and Productivity. Llorens also served as Philips' Chief Operations Officer for Imaging Systems, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain Operations for Ultrasound and Monitoring, Vice President of Supply Chain Operations for Patient Monitoring and Cardiac Care, and Philips Medical Systems' Chief Supply Chain Officer. His career began at Philips Consumer Electronics.

"I am excited to join the company and look forward to applying my experience implementing operational excellence and creating positive change to support Haemonetics' transformation and goals for growth," said Llorens.

Llorens received a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from University of Barcelona and a master's degree in Telecommunications Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia in Barcelona. He also holds an Executive Certificate in Technology, Operations and Value Chain Management from the MIT Sloan School of Management.

About Haemonetics

Haemonetics (NYSE: HAE) is a global healthcare company dedicated to providing a suite of innovative hematology products and solutions for customers, to help them improve patient care and reduce the cost of healthcare. Our technology addresses important medical markets: blood and plasma component collection, the surgical suite, and hospital transfusion services. To learn more about Haemonetics, visit www.haemonetics.com.

SOURCE Haemonetics Corporation

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CHICAGO, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Hub International Limited (Hub), a leading global insurance brokerage, announced today that it has acquired Benefit Broker Services Inc. (Benefit Broker). Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Located in Wallaceburg, Ontario, Benefit Broker provides innovative solutions around employee benefits and pension plans. This announcement supports Hub's ongoing Canadian employee benefits acquisition and services strategy to assemble best-in-class capabilities and entrepreneurial talent across Canada to develop a complete employee benefits solution.

Scott and Stacey Ewing of Benefit Broker will join Hub Ontario reporting to Rob Tamblyn, President of Employee Benefits, Southwest region of Hub Ontario.

About Hub's M&A Activities

Hub International Limited is committed to growing organically and through acquisitions to expand its geographic footprint and strengthen industry and product expertise. For more information on the Hub M&A experience, visit WeAreHub.com.

About Hub International

Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Hub International Limited (Hub) is a leading full-service global insurance broker providing property and casualty, life and health, employee benefits, investment and risk management products and services. From offices located throughout North America, Hub's vast network of specialists provides peace of mind on what matters most by protecting clients through unrelenting advocacy and tailored insurance solutions. For more information, please visit hubinternational.com.

CONTACT:

Media: Marni Gordon

Phone: 312-279-4601

[email protected]

M&A: Clark Wormer

Phone: 312.279.4848

[email protected]

SOURCE Hub International Limited

Related Links

http://www.hubinternational.com


CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- HubSpot, a leading growth platform, today extended its commitment to help millions of businesses grow better with the launch of Conversations. The new tool is available as part of HubSpot's free CRM and gives all businesses, big or small, the power to build better one-on-one relationships through features including a unified inbox, live chat, and chatbots. Conversations is comprehensive and easy to use, making it an effective solution for growing businesses looking to expand their messaging strategy beyond a siloed departmental effort into a truly business-wide strategy that harnesses existing data to form better connections with prospects and customers.

"As consumers, we have high expectations of the organizations we buy from. We expect businesses to be always on and clued in to our context  to know the history of our relationship. It's been tough for businesses to meet those expectations, especially with disparate tools that aren't integrated," said Dharmesh Shah, co-founder and CTO at HubSpot. "HubSpot's Conversations solves this problem by providing organizations with one single view of the customer and one unified 'inbox' across all channels of communication. This helps ensure that every interaction an organization has with its customers is contextual and, ultimately, delightful. And the best part is that it's all available for free."

Built with ease of use in mind, Conversations provides users with unlimited chats, unlimited users, and chatbot functionality, making it more accessible to the average customer than other similar offerings on the market today. Key features of the tool include:

A collaborative inbox built for all sources and all teams, allowing users to manage email and chat conversations from one central place.

Chatbots to automate the delivery of information and facilitate more high-quality conversations, built on technology from HubSpot's recent acquisition of top chatbot platform Motion AI .

Targeting and lead routing working seamlessly with HubSpot CRM, allowing for sophisticated targeting and lead routing that connects the right people at the right time.

"As a growing business, one of our biggest pain points has been getting the full view of our customers and prospects. The majority of the communication tools we've encountered on the market just haven't been developed with our needs in mind," said Kevin Hancock, founder of Frame My TV. "With Conversations, we're finally able to tap into the valuable data we've collected in our CRM to better connect with and serve our audiences, saving us time and driving meaningful results."

Conversations is a core feature of HubSpot CRM and is available across all of HubSpot's product offerings  Marketing Hub, Sales Hub, and the recently released Service Hub.

To learn more about Conversations, please visit http://www.hubspot.com/products/crm/conversations.

About HubSpot

HubSpot (NYSE: HUBS) is a leading growth platform. Since 2006, HubSpot has been on a mission to make the world more inbound. Today, over 48,000 total customers in more than 100 countries use HubSpot's award-winning software, services, and support to transform the way they attract, engage, and delight customers. Comprised of Marketing Hub, Sales Hub, Service Hub, and a powerful free CRM, HubSpot gives companies the tools they need to manage the customer experience from awareness to advocacy.

HubSpot has been named a top place to work by Glassdoor, Fortune, The Boston Globe, and The Boston Business Journal. The company is headquartered in Cambridge, MA with offices in Dublin, Ireland (EMEA HQ); Singapore; Sydney, Australia; Tokyo, Japan; Berlin, Germany; and Portsmouth, NH.

Learn more at www.hubspot.com.

SOURCE HubSpot

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ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Hope On Wheels 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, celebrates its 20th year in the fight funding pediatric cancer research and will present Dr. Don Eslin of Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children with a $100,000 Hyundai Impact Award. This institution is one of 21 recipients of this year's award, which is given to pediatric oncology departments at select children's hospitals nationwide. The $100,000 Hyundai Impact Award will be officially presented to Dr. Eslin and Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children on Wednesday, August 8th at 10:00 a.m.

In 2018, Hope On Wheels will award over $15 million toward pediatric cancer research and programs. This brings the organization's donation total to $145 million since Hyundai joined the fight against pediatric cancer 20 years ago in 1998. With this latest grant, Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children has received more than $805,000 in grants from Hope On Wheels.

"Throughout the country, talented doctors are working tirelessly to help kids fight cancer by conducting research or providing bedside care," said Scott Fink, chairman, Hyundai Hope On Wheels Board of Directors. "Our goal at Hope On Wheels is to provide these doctors with the grant funds they need to perform their lifesaving work."

During the event, children battling cancer being treated at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children will participate in the program's signature Handprint Ceremony, in which they'll dip their hands in paint and place their handprints on a white 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe. Their colorful handprints on the official Hope Vehicle represent their individual and collective journeys, hopes and dreams.

For more information about Hyundai Hope On Wheels and to view a complete list of this year's grant winners, please visit HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org/research. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram at facebook.com/HyundaiHopeOnWheels, twitter.com/HopeOnWheels or instagram.com/HyundaiHopeOnWheels.

HYUNDAI HOPE ON WHEELS

Hyundai Hope On Wheels is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is committed to finding a cure for childhood cancer. Launched in 1998, Hyundai Hope On Wheels provides grants to eligible institutions nationwide that are pursuing life-saving research and innovative treatments for the disease. HHOW is one of the largest non-profit funders of pediatric cancer research in the country, and primary funding for Hyundai Hope On Wheels comes from Hyundai Motor America and its more than 835 U.S. dealers. Since its inception, Hyundai Hope On Wheels has awarded more than $145 million towards childhood cancer research in pursuit of a cure.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through 835 dealerships nationwide. All new Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes a 5-year/60,000-mile fully-transferable new vehicle limited warranty, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and five years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.

For more details on Hyundai Assurance, please visit www.HyundaiAssurance.com

Please visit our media website at www.hyundainews.com

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook

SOURCE Hyundai Hope On Wheels

Related Links

https://www.hyundaihopeonwheels.org


KATY, Texas, Aug. 7, 2018. /PRNewswire/ -- Igloo Products Corp. has appointed David Allen as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and a Board Director. David joins Igloo from Vista Outdoor Inc., where he most recently served as Group President of the Outdoor Products Segment. In this role, David was responsible for leading a business with revenue over $1B, 2000+ employees, 14 global product categories and 35 brands including Bell, Giro, CamelBak, Bushnell, Camp Chef, Bolle and Blackhawk. Prior to Vista, David was a senior executive at Jarden Corporation where he served as President of Coleman U.S.A.

Igloo Chairman, Steven Scheyer, commented, "Dave brings to Igloo exceptional experience in consumer goods, as well as demonstrated success in the outdoor and recreational channel. The Board and I are delighted to have Dave leading our team to accelerate the growth of the iconic Igloo brand."

David spent the first fifteen years of his career with Unilever in various roles throughout the US and Europe working across their portfolio of brands. After Unilever, David served as Vice President of Sales for Alberto Culver.

About Igloo Products Corp.: Igloo was formed in 1947 and continues to thrive on five core values: community, courage, craftsmanship, commitment and celebration. We believe amazing things happen when people come together, and our craftsmanship is second to none as our products are built with detail, quality and pride. It's our responsibility to carry these values into the future with strength and integrity. Our commitment extends beyond product. It includes how we behave and how we act to make the world a better place. At the end of the day, it's all about making wonderful, memorable experiences.

SOURCE Igloo Products Corp.
VANCOUVER, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - INVICTUS MD STRATEGIES CORP. ("Invictus" or the "Company") (TSXV: GENE;OTCQX: IVITF; FRA: 8IS1) is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary, Acreage Pharms Ltd. ("Acreage Pharms"), has received an amended license from Health Canada, under the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations ("ACMPR"), to include the production of bottled cannabis oil and cannabis resin, effective August 3, 2018.

Acreage Pharms' state-of-the-art closed-loop CO 2 extraction process produces the highest-quality cannabis oils in the world. The system performs Subcritical and Supercritical Fluid Extraction utilizing high-pressure carbon dioxide to extract essential oils from botanicals, using specific temperatures and pressures to withdraw different components from plants. Through this extraction process, CBD and THC levels can be adjusted to ensure a diverse selection for consumers.

"We are building a robust portfolio of flower and oil products to satisfy consumer demand in both the medical and recreational markets," said Dan Kriznic, Chairman and CEO of Invictus. "Research shows CBD products are increasing in popularity, but the market is still unknown. We need to be able to adjust our product offerings as the market evolves over time."

Compared to solvent extractions, Acreage Pharms Supercritical CO 2 extraction will be:

Non-Toxic and Non-Carcinogenic. Oils extracted using CO 2 do not contain petroleum particles.

do not contain petroleum particles. Safe. The system does not use potentially flammable or explosive petroleum-based solvents.

Carbon-Neutral and Environmentally Friendly. The system does not emit carbon.

Customizable. With a wide range of temperatures, pressures and flow rates to leverage, the system is capable of withdrawing full profiles of natural compounds found within cannabis.

Premium quality. The advanced system is used by top companies to extract coffee, vanilla, tea, fruit and nuts, omega-3 oils, fragrances, tobacco for e-cigarettes, hop-oil for beer, and high-grade cannabis oil.

Acreage Pharms' oil extraction and quality assurance program will be overseen by registered Pharmacist and Responsible Person in Charge, Chris Kooner, supported by a skilled technical team of PHD's and experienced cultivators.

For more information, please visit www.invictus-md.com.

On Behalf of the Board,

Dan Kriznic

Chairman and CEO

Jessica Martin

Vice President, Public Relations and Regulatory Affairs

(647) 828-9655

About Invictus

Invictus is a global cannabis company offering a selection of products under a wide range of lifestyle brands. Our integrated sales approach is defined by five pillars of distribution including medical, wholesale, international, Licensed Producer to Licensed Producer and retail.

Invictus has partnered with business leaders to convey our corporate vision, including KISS music legend and business mogul Gene Simmons as our Chief Evangelist Officer, and global branding agency Authentic Brands Group. Invictus is expanding its cultivation footprint, with two cannabis production facilities fully licensed under ACMPR in Canada and a third awaiting approval, featuring 100,000 square feet of available grow space today with 200,000 expected by the end of 2018 and 1 million by end of 2019. The Company will earmark 50 per cent of production to the medical and recreational markets, respectively. To ensure consistency in quality and supply, Invictus maintains all aspects of the growing process through its subsidiary, Future Harvest Development Ltd., a high-quality Fertilizer and Nutrients manufacturer. Invictus drives sustainable long-term shareholder value through a diversified product portfolio with over 69 Health Canada approved strains and a multifaceted distribution strategy including medial, recreational, international and retail. For more information visit www.invictus-md.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws or forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding future estimates, plans, objectives, timing, assumptions or expectations of future performance, including the potential acquisition of OptionCo pursuant to the exercise of the Option, and the potential production capacity of OptionCo, AB Labs, AB Ventures and Acreage Pharms, are forward-looking statements and contain forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this press release, including that the Company will be successful in exercising the Option and obtaining TSX Venture Exchange approval of the acquisition, that OptionCo and AB Labs will be successful in reaching their potential production capacity, OptionCo, AB Ventures and Acreage Pharms' production facilities will be completed as anticipated, regulatory approval will be granted as anticipated, OptionCo and AB Labs will reach full production capacity on the timeline anticipated by the Company, OptionCo will be granted its first and second licenses, AB Labs will be granted its secondary license on the terms and timeline anticipated by the Company, no unforeseen construction delays will be experienced, and OptionCo and Acreage Pharms will be granted its sales license under the ACMPR on the terms and timeline anticipated by the Company,. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Important factors that may cause actual results to vary, include, without limitation, the Company will not complete the acquisition of OptionCo, OptionCo and AB Labs will not be successful in reaching its potential production capacity, OptionCo, AB Ventures and Acreage Pharms' production facilities will not be completed as anticipated, construction delays, regulatory approval will not be granted as anticipated and therefore, the anticipated timing of OptionCo and AB Labs reaching full production capacity will be delayed, AB Labs will not be granted their secondary license, OptionCo will not be granted its first and second licenses and OptionCo and Acreage Pharms will not be granted its sales license under the ACMPR, and licenses or approvals being granted on terms or timelines that are materially worse than expected by the Company. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE Invictus MD Strategies
"The combination of our broad and affordable diagnostic, reproductive health and proactive testing capabilities enables Invitae to answer genetic-related healthcare questions across all stages of life and opens up opportunity for growth as we bring genetics into mainstream medicine," said Sean George, co-founder and chief executive officer of Invitae. "Amidst the rapid growth in both volume and revenue, Invitae is emerging as a leader in the world of genetics. Given our progress, we're increasing our annual revenue guidance."

Second Quarter 2018 Results

Accessioned more than 73,000 samples in the second quarter of 2018, a 14% sequential increase over the first quarter of 2018 and a 139% increase over the 30,500 samples in the second quarter of 2017.

Generated revenue of $37.3 million in the second quarter of 2018, a 35% sequential increase over the first quarter of 2018 and a 161% increase over the second quarter of 2017 revenue of $14.3 million .

in the second quarter of 2018, a 35% sequential increase over the first quarter of 2018 and a 161% increase over the second quarter of 2017 revenue of . Maintained the average cost per sample at $280 in the second quarter of 2018, flat from prior quarter, and a 19% reduction from a $345 average cost per sample in the second quarter of 2017.

in the second quarter of 2018, flat from prior quarter, and a 19% reduction from a average cost per sample in the second quarter of 2017. Achieved positive gross profit of $16.9 million in the second quarter of 2018 compared to a gross profit of $9.6 million in the first quarter of 2018, and $3.8 million gross profit in the second quarter of 2017.

Total operating expenses for the second quarter of 2018, excluding cost of goods sold, were $46.9 million compared to $31.9 million in the second quarter of 2017. For the second quarter of 2018, Invitae reported a net loss of $31.7 million, or a $0.47 loss per share, compared to a net loss of $28.6 million in the second quarter of 2017, or a $0.66 loss per share.

Cash used in operating activities for the quarter was $26.5 million, compared to $35.1 million in the first quarter of 2018. At June 30, 2018, cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and marketable securities totaled $91.4 million which includes $53.5 million in net proceeds from an equity offering that closed in April. The company also has access to $20 million in additional debt, bringing total available capital at the quarter close to more than $110 million.

Corporate Highlights

Expanded the company's reproductive health offering with the launch of genetic carrier screening, a comprehensive test designed to provide affordable, accessible information on genetic changes that pose a risk for parents of having a child with an inherited genetic disorder

Made significant progress on the integration and restructuring of the 2017 acquisitions, including the transfer of our Cambridge reproductive health technology to our San Francisco laboratory

laboratory Continued growing our biopharma and patient advocacy network, launching seven biopharma partnership programs in the second quarter, including our SMA Identified program with Biogen to provide genetic testing to patients suspected of having or clinically diagnosed with SMA

program with Biogen to provide genetic testing to patients suspected of having or clinically diagnosed with SMA Began receiving payment from Medicare for deletion and duplication analysis (CPT code 81433)

Scientific Highlights

Published findings in the journal Genetics in Medicine from the largest analysis to date of genetic testing to identify deletions and duplications involving single genes using next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques. The study found that these changes are present in a substantial number of patients and suggests that laboratory methods with high sensitivity to copy number variants (CNVs) should be a routine component of genetic testing

from the largest analysis to date of genetic testing to identify deletions and duplications involving single genes using next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques. The study found that these changes are present in a substantial number of patients and suggests that laboratory methods with high sensitivity to copy number variants (CNVs) should be a routine component of genetic testing Highlighted data at the American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBS) showing that women who did not meet breast cancer genetic testing criteria had cancer-associated mutations just as often as women who met the criteria

Presented findings at the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) annual meeting, indicating proactive genetic health screening reveals medically significant findings for a substantial portion of individuals tested, supporting the importance of proactive, clinical-grade testing in the absence of personal or family history of genetic disease.

Webcast and Conference Call Details

Management will host a conference call and webcast today at 4:30 p.m. Eastern / 1:30 p.m. Pacific to discuss financial results and recent developments. The dial-in numbers for the conference call are (866) 393-4306 for domestic callers and (734) 385-2616 for international callers, and the reservation number for both is 3497996. Following prepared remarks, management will respond to questions from investors and analysts, subject to time limitations.

The live webcast of the call may be accessed by visiting the investors section of the company's website at ir.invitae.com. A replay of the webcast will be available shortly after the conclusion of the call and will be archived on the company's website.

About Invitae

Invitae Corporation (NYSE: NVTA) is a genetics company whose mission is to bring comprehensive genetic information into mainstream medical practice to improve the quality of healthcare for billions of people. Invitae's goal is to aggregate most of the world's genetic tests into a single service with higher quality, faster turnaround time and lower prices.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to the company's future financial performance and estimated guidance for 2018; the company's belief that its product mix opens up opportunities for growth; and that it is emerging as a leader in genetics. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, and reported results should not be considered as an indication of future performance. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the company's history of losses; the company's ability to compete; the company's failure to manage growth effectively; the company's need to scale its infrastructure in advance of demand for its tests and to increase demand for its tests; the risk that the company may not obtain or maintain sufficient levels of reimbursement for its tests; the company's failure to successfully integrate or fully realize the anticipated benefits of acquired businesses; the company's ability to use rapidly changing genetic data to interpret test results accurately and consistently; security breaches, loss of data and other disruptions; laws and regulations applicable to the company's business; and the other risks set forth in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risks set forth in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2018. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof, and Invitae Corporation disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Invitae Corporation Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (In thousands, except share and per share amounts)





Three Months Ended



Six Months Ended





June 30,



June 30,





2018



2017



2018



2017





(Unaudited)



(Unaudited)

Revenue:































Test revenue

$ 36,350



$ 13,592



$ 63,403



$ 23,287

Other revenue



956





744





1,574





1,387

Total revenue



37,306





14,336





64,977





24,674

Costs and operating expenses:































Cost of test revenue



20,447





10,490





38,523





19,819

Research and development



15,784





11,339





31,150





21,362

Selling and marketing



18,707





12,520





37,631





24,092

General and administrative



12,436





8,062





24,216





14,813

Total costs and operating expenses



67,374





42,411





131,520





80,086

Loss from operations



(30,068)





(28,075)





(66,543)





(55,412)

Other income (expense), net



188





151





1,835





(540)

Interest expense



(1,791)





(1,067)





(3,083)





(1,389)

Net loss before taxes



(31,671)





(28,991)





(67,791)





(57,341)

Income tax benefit



-





(434)





-





(1,856)

Net loss

$ (31,671)



$ (28,557)



$ (67,791)



$ (55,485)

Net loss per share, basic and diluted

$ (0.47)



$ (0.66)



$ (1.12)



$ (1.30)

Shares used in computing net loss per share, basic and diluted



67,806,606





43,226,569





60,775,077





42,808,175



Invitae Corporation Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (In thousands)





June 30,



December 31,





2018



2017





(Unaudited)









Assets















Current assets:















Cash and cash equivalents

$ 48,568



$ 12,053

Marketable securities



36,576





52,607

Accounts receivable



25,058





10,422

Prepaid expenses and other current assets



12,311





11,599

Total current assets



122,513





86,681

Property and equipment, net



28,816





30,341

Restricted cash



5,307





5,406

Marketable securities, non-current



900





5,983

Intangible assets, net



32,994





35,516

Goodwill



47,217





46,575

Other assets



1,329





576

Total assets

$ 239,076



$ 211,078

Liabilities and stockholders' equity















Current liabilities:















Accounts payable

$ 5,200



$ 8,606

Accrued liabilities



22,566





22,742

Capital lease obligation, current portion



1,829





2,039

Debt, current portion



3,061







Total current liabilities



32,656





33,387

Capital lease obligation, net of current portion



2,413





3,373

Debt, net of current portion



55,575





39,084

Other long-term liabilities



9,785





13,440

Total liabilities



100,429





89,284

Stockholders' equity:















Common stock



6





5

Accumulated other comprehensive loss



(109)





(171)

Additional paid-in capital



593,898





520,558

Accumulated deficit



(455,148)





(398,598)

Total stockholders' equity



138,647





121,794

Total liabilities and stockholders' equity

$ 239,076



$ 211,078



The condensed, consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2017 has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements at that date included in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017.

Contact:

Laura D'Angelo

[email protected]

(628) 213-3369

SOURCE Invitae Corporation

Related Links

http://invitae.com


PORTLAND, Ore., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- kVA is excited to announce the company is expanding to include a new office location in Portland, Oregon, bringing functional safety expertise to the west coast. The new office opens in August 2018 at 920 SW 6th Ave. It will be managed by kVA Engineering Manager, Gokul Krithivasan.

Mr. Krithivasan is a certified Automotive Functional Safety Expert (AFSE) and Industrial Functional Safety Professional (IFSP) by SGS-TUV. Krithivasan came to kVA in 2012 and has worked on diverse projects in automotive, autonomy, and semiconductor industries. He is an experienced functional safety engineer and has led safety assurance efforts for multiple automotive products.

Mr. Krithivasan described the new role: "I am honored to be leading kVA's efforts to establish a strong team of safety experts on the west coast. Our new base in Portland will help us add more value to our existing clients and at the same time position kVA to take on new safety challenges as we grow."

kVA is the leading expert in functional safety, focusing on the ISO 26262 standard in consulting and training practices offered worldwide. kVA engineers are certified practitioners of the standard who consistently apply safety principles and processes to automotive product developments. Their knowledge and understanding of functional safety have led to the successful launch of a wide range of automotive programs.

Jody Nelson, kVA Managing Partner, commented, "For years we have been supporting our west coast clients from our Royal Oak and Greenville offices. We felt it was time to have an office closer to our west coast clients. We are excited for the new opportunities and look forward to building a strong functional safety team as we have successfully done in Michigan and South Carolina."

kVA is now hiring for several positions located at the Portland office. Interested candidates should visit www.kvausa.com/careers for more information or email [email protected] with any questions.

Contact:

Lauren Frost

Marketing Coordinator

Phone: 864-630-5373

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE kVA

Related Links

http://www.kvausa.com


 This transaction allows the Maibec employees who work in both sawmills to join a family owned Quebec company that is well established in the Lower St-Lawrence lumber industry. Group Lebel will continue to develop its sawmilling sector and will be able to face new challenges in this sector with renewed confidence. 



Francois Tardif, President of Maibec

LEVIS, QC, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Maibec is happy to announce that it concluded a transaction with Groupe Lebel of Riviere-du-Loup for their acquisition of the Maibec lumber mills located in St-Pamphile, Quebec and Masardis, ME. The 315 employees of Maibec that are concerned by this transaction will maintain their employment with Groupe Lebel. As both companies are privately owned, the details pertaining to this transaction will not be made public and no additional comments will be provided.

 Maibec will now focus on growing its pre-stained exterior siding's systems based on lap sidings and shingles manufactured with solid wood or wood-based engineered material. Maibec recently announced the launching of the Maibec Resistech siding systems manufactured on LP SmartSide from Louisiana-Pacific. , added Francois Tardif, president of Maibec.

About Maibec Inc.

Maibec inc. is a family owned company from Quebec which has been involved in wood products manufacturing since 1946. Maibec is the most important Canadian manufacturer of genuine wood sidings and also the most important manufacturer of white cedar shingles in the East of North-America. Specializing in exterior siding systems, the company is well recognised for its know-how in innovation and product personalisation. Maibec has established a partnership with Fonds de Solidarite FTQ since 2013. After this transaction, Maibec will pursue its business development initiatives, supported by the remaining 585 employees working in the 8 Maibec manufacturing facilities located in St-Pamphile, St-Theophile, Balmoral (N-B) and the Levis headquarter.

About Group Lebel inc.

Group Lebel is a family business that has been working in forestry for over 60 years. Headquartered in Riviere-du-Loup in Lower St. Lawrence, it is deeply rooted regionally in 13 municipalities in Quebec and 2 in Ontario. Once the transaction is complete, the company will employ approximately 950 people through first, second and third transformation activities.

SOURCE Maibec Inc.

Related Links

www.maibec.com


MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- A lawsuit was filed yesterday in Minnesota District Court against Markon Cooperative, Inc., and Reinhart Foodservice LLC. on behalf of Linda Miller who was diagnosed E. coli O157:H7 after consuming romaine lettuce distributed by Markon Cooperative and produced by Reinhart Foodservice. Ms. Miller is represented by Marler Clark, the food safety law firm, and Jardine, Logan, and O'Brien, a respected local firm.

Prior to her E. coli O157:H7 infection, Ms. Miller lived at Andrew Residence, a long-term care facility for adults. Markon Cooperative supplied lettuce sourced from the Yuma, Arizona region to Reinhart Foodservice which provided the lettuce to the Andrew Residence where Ms. Miller consumed it. Reinhart Foodservice was the only supplier to Andrew Residence during the time period of Ms. Miller's E. coli O157:H7 infection. Ms. Miller has been linked to the outbreak by the CDC and the Minnesota Department of Health.

On April 28, 2018, Ms. Miller began experiencing symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, muscle aches, and fatigue. Her symptoms were so severe, that she required hospitalization at Abbot Northwestern Hospital. At the hospital she tested positive for E. coli O157:H7 and developed a complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Ms. Miller developed central nervous system involvement, resulting in seizures and other neurological injury. Ms. Miller remained in the hospital for six weeks requiring intubation to breathe, and a feeding tube. On June 13, Ms. Miller was transferred to the Ebenezer Care Center in Minneapolis for further care. She continues to struggle with injuries as a result of her infection.

On April 10, 2018, the CDC announced an investigation into an E. coli O157:H7 outbreak stemming from romaine lettuce grown in the Yuma region of Arizona. There were a total of 210 confirmed cases across 36 states, with 96 hospitalizations and 5 deaths. California was hardest hit with 49 sickened. Minnesota had 12 illnesses, including Ms. Miller. The five deaths were reported in Arkansas, California, New York and Minnesota. Two of the five deaths were from Minnesota.

Marler Clark currently represents 87 people affected in the outbreak and has filed 10 lawsuits associated with the outbreak.

"Although the CDC and FDA declared the outbreak officially over on June 28, 2018 many of our clients are still struggling medically," said Marler Clark managing partner, William Marler. "In addition, federal authorities have been less than forthcoming about where the E. coli O157:H7  tainted romaine was sold," continued Marler.

Marler Clark, The Food Safety Law Firm, is the nation's leading law firm representing victims of E. coli O157:H7 outbreaks and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The E. coli O157:H7 lawyers of Marler Clark have represented thousands of victims of E. coli O157:H7 and other foodborne illness infections and have recovered over $650 million for clients. Marler Clark is the only law firm in the nation with a practice focused exclusively on foodborne illness litigation. Our E. coli O157:H7 lawyers have litigated E. coli O157:H7 and HUS cases stemming from outbreaks traced to ground beef, raw milk, lettuce, spinach, sprouts, and other food products. The law firm has brought E. coli O157:H7 lawsuits against such companies as Jack in the Box, Dole, ConAgra, Cargill, and Jimmy John's. We have proudly represented such E. coli O157:H7 victims as Brianne Kiner, Stephanie Smith and Linda Rivera.

If you or a family member became ill with an E. coli O157:H7 infection or HUS after consuming food and you're interested in pursuing a legal claim, contact the Marler Clark E. coli O157:H7 attorneys for a free case evaluation.

SOURCE Marler Clark, The Food Safety Law Firm

Related Links

http://www.marlerclark.com


AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Academy of Cannabis Science announces its entrance into the Austin area, but who are they? What are they doing in Texas and why are they trying to educate the people of Texas in the Medicinal Cannabis field? Is there a medical cannabis market in Texas? Can cannabis one day be legal in the state of Texas? This and many other answers and/or topics is what the Academy of Cannabis Science wishes to educate the people of Texas about.

In addition to the medical benefits cannabis can provide, the economic upside for Texas is HUGE.

North Austin Academy of Cannabis Science is offering Medical Cannabis Courses to address all the questions, opportunities and needs of this new medical industry.

The average consumption of cannabis by a patient in the U.S. costs $365 per month or $4,380 per year (Headset, Inc.). The population of Texas is somewhere in the neighborhood of 29 million people. If only 1 out of 10 people takes advantage of the proposed medical program, and uses medical cannabis, the numbers add up: $4,380 x 2,900,000 people = $12,702,000,000 per year. Obviously, for this to happen, the industry will have to be fully operational.

In order for the state of Texas to fulfill this demand, it will have to produce a minimum of 3,970,000 pounds a year to provide 1.3 pounds per patient (7.2 grams of oil).

A 10,000 square foot space produces about 1,500 pounds per year, on the first year (and we're simplifying this greatly). So, Texas could need almost 2,600 of these 10,000 square foot cultivation facilities to meet the demands/needs of the patients.

Texas will also need about 8,450 dispensaries and at least 220,000 employees, not including the indirect jobs created from cultivation, transportation, lab, real estate, etc.

North Austin Academy of Cannabis Science is offering Medical Cannabis Courses to address all the questions, opportunities and needs of this new medical industry.

Classes are held Saturdays only. The first of which will begin Saturday, October 13th  November 10th, 2018.

For more information please call us at 512-485-4520 | Espanol at 214-733-0868

visit us at:

www.northaustinacademyofcannabisscience.com or by email at [email protected]

Media Contact:

Eva Jackson at 512-485-4520 | Espanol at 214-733-0868

[email protected]

SOURCE North Austin Academy of Cannabis Science

Related Links

https://www.northaustinacademyofcannabisscience.com


MIAMI, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

Mining Power Group, Inc., (the "Company" or "RCGR"), announced today that it acquired the majority ownership interest of upstate New York technology company, Northway Mining, LLC, ("Northway") which offers highly specialized data center hosting services for thousands of cryptomining machines.

Northway, which will become a subsidiary of the Company, presently has revenues from its existing clients and also from an ever-increasing number of new clients.

Included as part of the acquisition are real estate assets of substantial value from the purchase of the buildings in which Northway operates and a future building into which it will expand. In addition, included are 30 acres of surrounding flat land that will be used for future expansion of Northway as well as for the placement of industrial containers to house 1000's of additional mining machines for clients.

The purchased property has onsite access to approximately 300 Megawatts of electricity at very affordable rates contracted by Northway, which provides Northway with a significant competitive advantage on which to aggressively seek new and large client contracts. The cost of electricity being a significant cost component in the operation of any cryptomining machine.

Under the terms of the transaction, Northway will maintain its current management and the Company will invest funds for the expansion of its facilities. Additional details of the pending transaction were not disclosed but will be included in an upcoming 8K filing.

Separately, the Company is in negotiations for a similar purchase of a majority interest in an unrelated privately-held company involved in the development of products for the cryptomining industry. Results of the negotiations will be announced at a later date.

Dror Svorai President and CEO, Mining Power Group, Inc. stated, "This is something that we had been working on for a while and we are so glad to finally complete this transaction. We have not only entered the data center market but we have done it in a big way that allows us to immediately begin a rapid ramp up of revenues. Existing clients can readily add machines because of our immense capacity, which is a key capability that we offer our clients. Our immediate ability to expand our facilities and the significant operational cost savings we can offer our clients due to our low cost of electricity, provides them with an affordable way to thrive and profit."

Michael Miranda, President of Northway Mining stated: "Our whole team is excited to be a part of Mining Power Group and a part of a public company which will give us the support we need to keep pace with our rapidly growing business. The increasing demands from our existing client base, coupled with our many new client additions, required that we rapidly accelerate our expansion to meet the needs of both. With our highly experienced and qualified staff and Mining Power Groups' support, we will be able to upgrade our facilities and aggressively take advantage of this rapidly growing market."

About Mining Power Group, Inc.

Mining Power Group, Inc. was originally formed as Rich Cigars to distribute, brand and market tobacco products. Following a change of control in November 2017, it changed its name and shifted its focus to become a holding company for new subsidiary operations serving the cryptomining industry. The Company trades under the symbol ("RCGR") and is a fully reporting SEC company listed on the OTC market. The Company has paid the fee and is in the process of submitting its application to OTC Markets in order to uplist to the OTCQB, which it plans to accomplish by September 1, 2018. For additional information on the Company, visit, http://www.miningpowergroup.com.

About Northway Mining, LLC

Northway Mining, LLC, located in Athens, NY, is a crypto mining data center hosting over 1,100 rigs that operate 24/7. It has over 5000 square feet of secure crypto mining space of any type of machines and is fully climate-controlled to assure maximum machine optimal output. It has a unique competitive advantage in its onsite access to 300 Megawatts of electricity at very affordable rates. Its employees have significant experience in cryptocurrency operational systems, the repair of miners, and general computer science and info management systems with a strong interest in all things Bitcoin/crypto/blockchain. For additional information on Northwood Mining, visit, https://www.northwaymining.com

Safe Harbor Statement:

This release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such statements include any that may predict, forecast, indicate, or imply future results, performance or achievements, and may contain the words "estimate", "project", "intend", "forecast", "anticipate", "plan", "planning", "expect", "believe", "likely", "should", "could", "would", "may" or similar words or expressions. Such statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the company's actual results and financial position to differ materially from those in such statements, which involve risks and uncertainties, including those relating to the Company's ability to grow. Actual results may differ materially from those predicted and any reported should not be considered an indication of future performance. Potential risks and uncertainties include the Company's operating history and resources, economic, competitive, and equity market conditions.

Contact:

Mining Power Group, Inc.

+1(800)304-2657



SOURCE Mining Power Group, Inc.
FAIRFAX, Va., Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- An office environment reflects a business's core values, from the placement of different teams to design elements that showcase the culture and brand. Outfitting workspaces is a major capital investment that affects business outcomes, from productivity to employee satisfaction to talent recruitment. In 2018, corporations are expected to spend $11.8 billion on professional audiovisual technology solutions for office environments in the United States, according to the new 2018 Market Opportunity Analysis Report (MOAR) covering the corporate market by AVIXA, the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association.

According to MOAR: Corporate, 76.4 percent of respondents work for companies with multiple locations. Recent reports show some companies scaling back or eliminating their teleworking programs, however 33.9 percent of corporate employees surveyed say their companies offer telecommuting or remote work options. With many organizations' employees spread across the globe in regional offices and home offices, it's imperative for companies to have efficient means to communicate and collaborate.

The average office worker now uses some mixture of desk phones, mobile phones, voicemail, IM apps, or collaboration apps. In turn, many of these standard communication tools use different user authentication. Aiming to improve corporate communication, 32.6 percent of MOAR: Corporate survey respondents reported they will increase investments in unified communications solutions (UCC) over the next year. A UCC solution provides employees with access to all the varied communications channels they utilize in the workplace  phone calls, messaging, video and webconferencing  all simplified by having one phone number, one user account, and one identity. Almost 80 percent of office workers surveyed that have access to a UCC solution say they interact with it at least weekly, with 34.6 saying they use it every day.

While some companies seek to provide workers the flexibility for when and where they can do their best work, a growing faction of corporate America is attempting to create more innovation by bringing employees back to the office. To create a modern workspace that will attract employees, companies are investing in AV solutions to facilitate better collaboration. More than 60 percent of survey respondents plan to upgrade AV technology in large conference rooms and 58 percent in small conference rooms in the next year. They will focus on audio equipment, and capture and production equipment, such as videoconferencing cameras and systems.

"The modern office worker requires technology to be mobile, collaborative, and ubiquitous, and corporations that want to attract and keep top talent must deliver that," said Sean Wargo, Senior Director of Market Intelligence, AVIXA. "What were cookie-cutter office buildings have become statements of corporate identity, brand, and culture. All the while, some companies are instead down-sizing their headquarters or local offices to encourage and support telecommuting and remote work. But the objective remains the same for all  to increase productivity."

The research for MOAR: Corporate took place in the first quarter of 2018 and involved three different surveys for the following groups: corporate office workers (1,009 responses); decision-makers in corporate environments to learn more about their current usage of AV technology, their expansion plans, and challenges faced when working with providers (324 responses); and providers of AV solutions to learn more about their existing and planned solutions activities within the corporate market (231 responses).

To learn more about MOAR: Corporate, visit www.avixa.org/MOARCorporate.

About AVIXA

AVIXA is the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association, producer of InfoComm trade shows around the world, co-owner of Integrated Systems Europe, and the international trade association representing the audiovisual industry. Established in 1939, AVIXA has more than 5,400 members, including manufacturers, systems integrators, dealers and distributors, consultants, programmers, live events companies, technology managers, content producers, and multimedia professionals from more than 80 countries. AVIXA members create integrated AV experiences that deliver outcomes for end users. AVIXA is a hub for professional collaboration, information, and community, and the leading resource for AV standards, certification, training, market intelligence and thought leadership. Additional information is available at avixa.org.

PRESS CONTACT:

Krystle Murphy, Communications Manager, AVIXA

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +1.703.279-6366

SOURCE AVIXA

Related Links

http://www.avixa.org


EUGENE, Ore., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Montana Bankers Association (MBA) has endorsed IP Services to provide cybersecurity and critical Information Technology (IT) system's management to MBA member banks. IP Services was awarded the endorsement by MBA subsidiary BANCSERVE's board of directors.

IP Services

Banks maintain sensitive information that they work hard to protect. As consumers and businesses rely more on electronic devices to bank and shop online, ensuring availability and security of evolving systems is critical to a bank's success. The strict security and compliance standards required of banks also make operating IT more complex. IP Services solves these challenges by using an integrated set of processes and controls to ensure uninterrupted systems and business performance while adhering to strict compliance and security requirements.

"We are excited to forge a new relationship with IP Services that will bring tremendous value to our member banks by way of providing superior management of their critical IT systems," said MBA President and CEO Steve Turkiewicz. "We chose IP Services based on their knowledge and experience of managing other banks, large and small, throughout the Northwest. In addition to MBA, they are also endorsed by the Arizona, Oregon and Washington Bankers Associations. They have a unique ability to manage and secure IT that is cost effective and demonstrates an ability to mitigate IT risk while demonstrating compliance on an on-going basis. IP Services is an ideal IT provider for banks in Montana."

"IP Services is excited to partner with MBA and build relationships with Montana banks," said Scott Alldridge, CEO of IP Services. "We look forward to helping Montana banks improve availability, comply with audit and compliance requirements, and bridge the gap between business and IT strategies."

About IP Services

IP Services proactively manages clients' cybersecurity and critical IT systems and applications in any datacenter using the VisibleOpsTM methodology and the quality control system we created called TotalControl. IP Services' Next Generation Cybersecurity uses scientifically proven best practices to secure businesses and the users they serve by monitoring and protecting the systems and applications that are the heart of modern business - Managed Services and Managed Cybersecurity Services. IP Services' target market is best suited for small and medium size banks in the U.S. that lack the resources to effectively provide comprehensive IT management and necessary security and compliance services. To learn more about IP Services please visit www.ipservices.com.

About the Montana Bankers Association

The Montana Bankers Association Mission: enriching the lives of all Montanans through strong community-focused banks. MBA responsibility to the Membership: provide valuable, cost effective, and accessible programs and services that enable each bank and bankers to succeed. More information is available at www.montanabankers.com.

Contact:

Pam O'Reilly, Association Services Director, MBA

406.443.4121

[email protected]



Scott Alldridge, CEO, IP Services

541.343.5974

[email protected]



SOURCE Montana Bankers Association

Related Links

http://ipservices.com/


GREENBELT, Md., Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A conversation at last year's Small Satellite Conference in Utah led to the Strategic Partnerships Office (SPO) at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, signing a non-exclusive license agreement with Thermal Management Technologies (TMT) of North Logan, Utah.

"We chatted a bit about a couple of NASA technologies that complemented some small satellite structures TMT is developing, and I became interested in learning more about one technology in particular," said Scott Schick, director of engineering at TMT. "Our company really values the Small Satellite Conference, because you get to share what you know while learning about what others are doing."

The patented technology  Diminutive Assembly for Nanosatellite deploYables (DANY)  provides a reliable mechanism to secure deployable elements of a small satellite, safely stowing them until receiving a signal to burn through a plastic restraining link and release them for use in space. Deployable elements on a small satellite can include solar arrays, sun shades, radiators or antennas. The entire assembly is about the size of a credit card, making it ideal for small satellites that have significant space constraints.

The agreement allows TMT to use the technology, developed at NASA Goddard for the Dellingr mission, as the core of TMT's "Gecko Release Mechanism," named after the device's gecko-like size and ability to grip tightly onto a spacecraft.

"SPO and DANY's inventors  Luis Santos, Scott Hesh and John Hudeck  are excited to see the technology made available to the commercial space community through this license agreement with TMT," said Eric McGill, a technology manager in Goddard's SPO. "We're impressed with the research and development progress made by the company to date."

"Eric McGill was great to work with from day one," Schick added. "As a small business, this was our first experience licensing a NASA technology, but we're super happy with the result."

TMT specializes in custom thermal and mechanical products, including spacecraft hardware and systems. Schick said that DANY, a thermal-based technology, fits well into the company's niche.

"This really matches our overall objective to provide small spacecraft with high-reliability thermal control components," Schick said.

Small satellites typically have a mass of less than 180 kilograms, and they play a growing role at NASA for science missions and technology demonstrations.

To learn more about Thermal Management Technologies, please visit: http://www.tmt-ipe.com

For more information on Goddard's Strategic Partnerships Office, please visit: https://technology.gsfc.nasa.gov

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

http://www.nasa.gov


WASHINGTON, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- As NASA nears the launch of its Parker Solar Probe, the agency will host a series of media briefings beginning Wednesday, Aug. 8. These briefings, as well as special programs, the launch on Saturday, Aug. 11, and a postlaunch news conference all will air on NASA Television and the agency's website.

Parker Solar Probe will lift off on a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket from Space Launch Complex 37 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The first launch opportunity is at 3:33 a.m. EDT, at the opening of a 65-minute window.

Although the deadline has passed for media to attend the launch of this historic mission to our Sun, journalists may participate in prelaunch and postlaunch news briefings via phone by contacting Kennedy's News Center at 321-867-2468 for dial-in information.

The following is a complete schedule of mission coverage, including opportunities for media participation. All time are EDT:

Wednesday, Aug. 8

NASA will host a full morning of foreign-language teleconferences for international media, during which they can discuss mission science with project researchers.

9 a.m.  Japanese

 Japanese 10 a.m.  Italian

 Italian 11 a.m.  German

 German Noon  French

1 p.m.  Spanish

To participate, media must email their name and affiliation to Andrew Schurr at [email protected] by 8 a.m. Aug. 8.

Thursday, Aug. 9

1 p.m.  Prelaunch mission news briefing

Friday, Aug. 10

6 p.m.  NASA Edge prelaunch broadcast

 NASA Edge prelaunch broadcast 7:30 p.m.  What Parker Solar Probe Will Provide to Humanity

Saturday, Aug. 11

3 a.m.  Launch coverage begins

 Launch coverage begins 3:33 a.m.  Launch

 Launch TBD  Postlaunch news conference

Media may participate in the postlaunch news briefings via phone by contacting Kennedy's News Center at 321-867-2468 for dial-in information.

Parker Solar Probe will revolutionize our understanding of the Sun. The spacecraft will fly closer to the Sun's surface than any spacecraft before it, facing brutal heat and radiation. It will be the first spacecraft to fly directly through the Sun's corona  the part of the solar atmosphere visible during an eclipse  to answer questions about solar physics that have puzzled scientists for decades.

Gathering information about fundamental processes near the Sun can help improve our understanding of how our solar system's star changes the space environment, where space weather can affect astronauts, interfere with satellite orbits, or damage spacecraft electronics.

For more details on the Parker Solar Probe mission and prelaunch and launch events, visit:

https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/parker-solar-probe-briefings-and-events

Join the conversation on social media at:

https://twitter.com/NASASun

and

https://www.facebook.com/NASASunScience/

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

http://www.nasa.gov


EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- NC4 is excited to announce the next generation in intelligence-led policing with the latest release of its popular NC4 Street Smart software. This officer-led crime-fighting communication tool helps law enforcement agencies achieve double-digit crime reductions, improves officer safety, and fosters community trust by helping to create a collaborate partnership between the police and its citizens.

NC4 Street Smart is sophisticated software that equips law enforcement agencies with crime data delivered in real-time through bulletins, blogs, and integrated mapping. NC4 Street Smart has a proven track record of helping agencies to reduce crime by double-digits and to improve the lives of the communities where deployed. Officers on patrol can update and share critical information through a single operating picture, improving situational awareness and reducing the time it takes to solve crimes.

The latest version of NC4 Street Smart utilizes the Microsoft Azure Government Cloud, which enhances functionality and deployment speed, provides an added layer of data security and reduces the overall cost of operations for the software.

"Our shift to Microsoft's Azure Government Cloud allows us to significantly reduce our operational costs and we are very pleased to pass on these savings to our customers," says Robert Wolf, VP/GM of Risk and Public Safety at NC4. "We are changing our licensing models from a traditional Enterprise License with Maintenance and Managed Services to an all-inclusive Software as a Service model. This change, coupled with our operational savings, provides significant reductions in contract totals for prospects."

Beyond the cloud, NC4 Street Smart delivers a host enhanced usability improvements that simplify content sharing and visibility. New features include an enhanced mapping display, expanded bulletin management, customizable user profiles and views, night mode capability, improved search functionality, and a responsive design allowing for use across mobile devices.

One of the more state-of-the-art innovations added to NC4 Street Smart is the Crime Connector. The Crime Connector is a sophisticated tool that mines case data to find relevant links between people, places, activities and assets, giving officers real-time intelligence to solve crimes faster.

Law-enforcement agencies can request a full demo of NC4 Street Smart's enhanced features and functionality, and learn more about its simplified, cloud-based pricing structure at www.NC4.com/NC4-Street-Smart.

About NC4

NC4 delivers safety and security solutions for both business and government organizations. We revolutionize how organizations and communities collect, manage, share, protect and disseminate information to reduce cyber threats, fight crime, mitigate risks, and manage incidents. NC4 solutions are used by private sector companies involved in financial services, high-tech, insurance, retail, manufacturing, aerospace and defense, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, as well as other industries. In the public sector, NC4 solutions are used by federal, state, and local agencies in homeland security, emergency management, and law enforcement disciplines.

NC4 takes a comprehensive and integrated approach to safety and security by providing: cyber threat defense solutions that drive the development of a sharing culture and circles of trust; global security and travel intelligence, analysis, traveler tracking, and relevant real-time threat alerting to mitigate enterprise risks and a common operating picture for fighting crime and managing emergencies.

For information about NC4, visit www.NC4.com or call toll-free, 1-877-624-4999.

SOURCE NC4

Related Links

http://www.NC4.com


RENO, Nev., Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ) announced the 2018 Innovator of the Year at the 4th annual Justice Innovation Awards: the UNLV Immigration Clinic, Edward M. Bernstein & Associates Children's Rights Program, at the William S. Boyd School of Law in Las Vegas, Nev.

Dr. Rebecca Nathanson, Associate Dean for Experiential Legal Education, UNLV William S. Boyd School of Law and Claudia Noriega-Bernstein, Marketing Director, Edward M. Bernstein & Associates

The Innovator of the Year Award honors an active, in-good-standing NCJFCJ member who has inspired, sponsored, promoted or led an innovation or accomplishment of national significance in juvenile justice, child abuse and neglect, family law, and/or domestic violence.

"It is the NCJFCJ's honor to recognize the work of the UNLV Immigration Clinic team at William S. Boyd Law," said Judge John J. Romero, Jr., NCJFCJ president. "We recognize their tireless commitment to serving vulnerable populations  immigrant children and families  especially those who find themselves in our justice system. We hope to continue to raise awareness of these core issues affecting our nation's families."

The William S. Boyd School of Law is an organizational member of the NCJFCJ, and its UNLV Immigration Clinic trains student attorneys to defend people in deportation proceedings, allowing them the opportunity to provide innovative ways to offer legal services to immigrants in Nevada. The clinic serves as a resource for undocumented and DACAmented students.

Statistics show that only 37 percent of immigrants in deportation proceedings have lawyers, and immigrants who had a lawyer were 15 times more likely to avoid deportation. The UNLV Immigration Clinic offers direct representation to as many of these children as it can, and trains other pro bono lawyers to do the same. The clinic works closely with the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada to represent unaccompanied children in both family court and in their immigration cases.

"The UNLV Immigration Clinic is a champion for those who might otherwise not have a voice or representation," said U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV). "Their work changes lives and strengthens our communities. I am thrilled to see this organization, and its mission recognized and celebrated for its groundbreaking work. The UNLV Immigration Clinic is an example of the world-class education students receive at UNLV and demonstrates the commitment UNLV Law students have to standing up for others in Nevada. The Immigration Clinic's dedication to fighting for families and children with the toughest immigration cases remains incredibly important, especially now."

Dr. Rebecca Nathanson, Associate Dean for Experiential Legal Education, UNLV William S. Boyd School of Law and Claudia Noriega-Bernstein, Marketing Director, Edward M. Bernstein & Associates accepted the award.

About the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ):

Founded in 1937, the Reno, Nev.-based National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, is the nation's oldest judicial membership organization and focused on improving the effectiveness of our nation's juvenile and family courts. A leader in continuing education opportunities, research, and policy development in the field of juvenile and family justice, the 2,000-member organization is unique in providing practice-based resources to jurisdictions and communities nationwide.



Media Contact:

Chrisie Yabu

KPS3

775-686-7437

[email protected]

Related Images

immigration-clinic-innovator-award.jpg

Immigration Clinic Innovator Award Recipients

Dr. Rebecca Nathanson, Associate Dean for Experiential Legal Education, UNLV William S. Boyd School of Law and Claudia Noriega-Bernstein, Marketing Director, Edward M. Bernstein & Associates

unlv-immigration-clinic.jpg

UNLV Immigration Clinic

UNLV Immigration Clinic, Edward M. Bernstein & Associates Children's Rights Program, at the William S. Boyd School of Law, Las Vegas, Nev.

ncjfcj.jpg

NCJFCJ

The National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ) announced the 2018 Innovator of the Year at the 4th annual Justice Innovation Awards

Related Links

National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges

NCJFCJ

SOURCE National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges

Related Links

http://www.ncjfcj.org


CHICAGO, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Having so many options for communicating with employees can be both a blessing and a curse. Often, it's tough to decide on the perfect option for the particular needs of any one audience.

Use the Right Channels to Communicate with Impact, a new ebook from the award-winning Chicago-based leadership and communications consultancy, The Grossman Group, provides valuable insights for communicators looking to pick the perfect communication options for their employees.

New Communication Channels Guide eBook

The ebook helps communicators reach their ultimate goal of engaging employees in more meaningful ways so the entire team can accomplish more for each other, and for the organization.

"Communicators today are all looking for the same thing  a way to push through all the communication clutter to really connect with employees," says David Grossman, founder and CEO of The Grossman Group. "This ebook helps walk communicators through all the different tools available to them so they can make smart decisions on what's best for their unique audience."

Use the Right Channels to Communicate with Impact offers short, simple tips and tricks to help communicators sort through some of the most popular vehicles for communicating with employees today. The insight helps communicators decide when and how to use a variety of the vehicles, including:

Face-to-face meetings

Traditional and new forms of written communication

Email

Intranet

Internal Social Media

Internal Publications

Blog

Podcast

Video

Employee Surveys

Infographics

Your CEO

Employee Ambassadors

Front-line Managers  and more!

Readers can download Use the Right Channels to Communicate with Impact here: https://www.yourthoughtpartner.com/communication-channels-guide-ebook

About The Grossman Group

The Grossman Group is an award-winning Chicago-based communications consultancy focusing on organizational consulting, strategic leadership development and internal communication.

Its team of experienced thoughtpartners leverage the Grossman Methodologya suite of proprietary tools, training, and consulting servicesto unleash the power of strategic internal communication to drive business results.

A certified diversity supplier, The Grossman Group works closely with Fortune 500 companies and other organizations including Abbott, Astellas, Hill-Rom, Home Run Inn, Johnson & Johnson, Lockheed Martin, McDonald's, Motel 6, Tenneco and Wyndham, among others.

About David Grossman

A leading consultant, speaker and author, David Grossman ABC, APR, Fellow PRSA, CSP is one of America's foremost authorities on communication and leadership inside organizations. He is Founder and CEO of The Grossman Group, an award-winning Chicago-based leadership and communications consultancy that focuses on organizational consulting, strategic leadership development and internal communications for Fortune 500 clients. A frequent media source, David provides expert commentary and analysis on employee and leadership issues. He's been featured on "NBC Nightly News," WSJ.com, Today.com, in the Chicago Tribune, LA Times, and CBS MoneyWatch. His latest book is "No Cape Needed: The Simplest, Smartest, Fastest Steps To Improve How You Communicate By Leaps and Bounds" recently won the Pinnacle Book Award for the "Best in Business" category and the Beverly Hills International Book Award's President's award.

Contact: Kayla Ellsworth

The Grossman Group

312.850.8211 [email protected]

SOURCE The Grossman Group

Related Links

https://www.yourthoughtpartner.com


HOUSTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Real estate powerhouse Boxer Property and Houston brand marketing expert and entrepreneur Jason Arcemont have joined forces to create On-Demand Digital Services (ODDS), a full-service digital marketing firm focused on providing data-driven results for their clients. Unlike traditional agencies, ODDS Marketing takes a different approach by using proprietary software and automation that has been proven to increase online visibility for their clients. This innovative approach allows for greater customer service and face-to-face attention for their clients.

"We saw a need in this space for a professional firm with major automation capabilities that was still driven by results rather than activity," says Arcemont. "With Boxer's resources and our team's know-how, we are uniquely positioned to expand what's possible in digital marketing."

"Boxer Property is leading the real estate industry in data analysis and processing," says Boxer Property President Justin Segal. "Combining our operational approach to business with Jason and his team's creativity and understanding of the online marketing world seemed like a perfect fit."

Boxer Property utilizes a well-organized financial, legal, and operational infrastructure to support thousands of tenants across the United States. Arcemont has planned and launched successful marketing efforts in a wide range of industries over the last decade, sometimes cultivating brands from launch to multi-million dollar market caps. ODDS will combine the marketing infrastructure Arcemont has developed, with the high impact business capacity and innovation of Boxer Property, to deliver complete marketing solutions.

Visit www.oddsmarketing.com.

About Boxer Property

Boxer Property, founded in 1992, harnesses digital technology and data analytics to provide versatile commercial property to clients in more than a dozen cities nationwide. From office space to retail centers to resort hotels, Boxer Property manages over 15 million square feet of commercial buildings in different major cities.

Visit www.boxerproperty.com

About Jason Arcemont

Jason Arcemont is a serial entrepreneur, author, radio host, and endurance athlete who consistently strives to change the world for the better. As founder and President of BrightBox, he refined the process of brand marketing into a full-service solution that has helped hundreds of companies find their voice and connect with customers around the world. Arcemont has also dedicated himself to community efforts. In 2014, he ran 859-miles across the state of Texas, raising awareness and money to fight against child sex trafficking.

CONTACT

(877) 633-7899

[email protected]

SOURCE ODDS Marketing

Related Links

http://www.oddsmarketing.com


(Logo: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/599793/Chocolate_Logo.jpg )



(Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/727603/Chocolate_Ad_Mediation_Report_2018.jpg )



Download the Survey Report here

Key highlights of the report include:

In-app ad revenue miseries : Only 31% app developers are satisfied with their in-app ad revenues

: Only 31% app developers are satisfied with their in-app ad revenues Non-video ads are disappearing : Only 17% app developers are satisfied with their in-app ad revenues from non-video ads

: Only 17% app developers are satisfied with their in-app ad revenues from non-video ads Jumping on the ad mediation bandwagon : 54% app developers are willing to try ad mediation to boost in-app ad revenues

: 54% app developers are willing to try ad mediation to boost in-app ad revenues Factors for picking an ad mediation partner: No. of ad networks and ease of integration are the top two factors in choosing an ad mediation partner

"The survey report clearly states the fact that app developers are not satisfied with their current ad revenues and considering a majority of developers rely on ad-based monetization as their primary source of revenue, there is a critical need of putting power back in the hands of app developers," said Saurabh Bhatia, CEO, Chocolate. "Our ad mediation technology provides multiple demand sources in a programmatic environment layered with unified auction technology, ensuring no bias towards any ad network, thus, delivering the highest bid every time. All this through a single intelligent SDK and a single sign-in, ensuring app developers spend no time managing multiple ad networks and maximum time at what they do best - creating fabulous apps."

"We are excited to launch our latest update of Salad Hunt to include 10 additional languages for both Android and iOS App stores," said Telly Lee, CEO, Salad Hunters. "For free-to-play apps like ours, ad-based monetization is critical for the business. We were looking for monetization partners who can offer rewarded video ads and guarantee a high Fill-rate. Chocolate's user-friendly dashboard and a bundle of multiple demand partners gave us the confidence to partner with them."

The survey report is based on responses from 102 app developers spread across 22 countries including top mobile app countries like the US, Canada, Germany, UK, Australia, India and more. The survey was conducted between Nov'17 and Jun'18.

About Chocolate

Chocolate is a global leader in mobile video advertising. Chocolate offers two core products, Chocolate Marketplace, a global programmatic buying and selling platform for mobile video advertising and Chocolate Ad Mediation, an end-to-end monetization solution for app developers and publishers. Chocolate is a privately held, venture-backed company headquartered in Silicon Valley with offices in San Francisco, CA, and India.

Media Contact:

Tanu Kak

[email protected]

SOURCE Chocolate


HOUSTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Ontellus, an industry-leading, nationwide data retrieval and analytics technology company announced publicly today that Darren Klauser has been appointed by the Ontellus Board of Directors to lead Ontellus as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1, 2018.

Ontellus Appoints Klauser as Chief Executive Officer Ontellus Appoints Klauser as Chief Executive Officer

"The Board and I are very excited to welcome Darren to Ontellus. Darren has an impressive track record of developing and growing market leading technology businesses that service the insurance sector, and those experiences will serve Ontellus well as the company moves into its next phase of growth," says Tom Caughlin, Principal at the CapStreet Group, which is the majority investor in Ontellus.

Former Ontellus CEO Newton Ross has served in the capacity of CEO since 2010 and was instrumental in laying the initial groundwork to spearhead the tremendous growth that Ontellus has experienced in the last several years. Moving forward, Ross will remain an integral part of the Ontellus Executive team, transitioning into the role of President.

"Newton's leadership was instrumental in helping build Ontellus into the market-leading organization that it is today. He oversaw a period of tremendous growth, and the board thanks him for his service. We are pleased that the organization will continue to benefit from his insights and experience," continues Caughlin.

As the former General Manager of the Americas Insurance Division of DXC Technology, a Fortune 500 end-to-end IT services company, Darren is well equipped to take Ontellus into the next era of automation and data intelligence in the insurance industry.

"Insurers are pushing for fully digital solutions that solve complex problems without the hassle of complicated implementations," says Darren Klauser. "Ontellus and the My.Ontellus cloud platform are powerful tools which we will leverage moving forward as part of our digital ecosystem to allow for the exchange of critical records information for the advantage of our insurance industry clients."

About Ontellus

Ontellus empowers insurance carriers, self-insured corporations and law firms to reduce costs, make informed decisions and accelerate claims resolution. As the nation's largest, privately-held data retrieval and claims intelligence provider, Ontellus leverages decades of experience and cutting-edge technology to deliver impactful products and client-centric services within industry-leading turnaround times.

For Inquires:

Prairie Elliott, Director of MarketingOntellus

[email protected]

Phone: +1 713 335 4512

www.ontellus.com

SOURCE Ontellus

Related Links

https://www.ontellus.com/


NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of financial markets for 10,000 U.S. and global securities, today announced Mentor Capital, Inc. (OTCQX: MNTR), an operating company focused on cannabis related acquisitions, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX Best Market. Mentor Capital upgraded to OTCQX from the OTCQB Venture Market.

Mentor Capital begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol "MNTR." U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

"Congratulations to Mentor Capital on upgrading to the OTCQX Best Market," said Jason Paltrowitz, Executive Vice President of Corporate Services at OTC Markets Group. "Mentor Capital joins more than 20 companies this year that have utilized the OTCQB Venture Market to build their company's visibility and graduate to the OTCQX Best Market. We look forward to continuing to support the company and its investors."

Mentor Capital, Inc. CEO, Chet Billingsley recalls, "It has been almost ten years to the day since Mentor restarted the lightest of trading with a single market maker. Over the ensuing decade, the company disclosed additional information to step up to Pink, moved to OTCQB after becoming fully reporting, and now has graduated to OTCQX after growth, legal reviews and corporate governance additions. The tiered system designed by OTC Markets seems to have well matched our hundred-fold maturing in the market and we are proud to move to the highest tier of the market today."

Mentor Capital was sponsored for OTCQX by Legal & Compliance LLC, a qualified third-party firm responsible for providing guidance on OTCQX requirements and recommending membership.

About Mentor Capital, Inc.

The company seeks to come alongside and assist private medical marijuana and cannabis companies and their founders in meeting their liquidity and financial objectives, to add protection for investors and to help incubate larger private cannabis companies. Additional important information for investors is presented at: www.MentorCapital.com

About OTC Markets Group Inc.

OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates the OTCQX Best Market, the OTCQB Venture Market and the Pink Open Market for 10,000 U.S. and global securities. Through OTC Link ATS and OTC Link ECN, we connect a diverse network of broker-dealers that provide liquidity and execution services. We enable investors to easily trade through the broker of their choice and empower companies to improve the quality of information available for investors.

To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

OTC Link ATS and OTC Link ECN are operated by OTC Link LLC, member FINRA/SIPC and SEC regulated ATS.

Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

Media Contact:

OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, [email protected]

SOURCE OTC Markets Group Inc.

Related Links

http://www.otcmarkets.com


TYSONS, Va., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- PenFed Credit Union today announced the promotion of four leaders who will oversee consumer products, member operations, and digital transformation:

Ricardo Chamorro , Senior Vice President of Consumer Lending Development and Corporate Development, has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Corporate & Business Development;

, Senior Vice President of Consumer Lending Development and Corporate Development, has been promoted to Executive Vice President, Corporate & Business Development; Jamie Gayton , Vice President of Strategy and Policy, has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Member Operations;

, Vice President of Strategy and Policy, has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Member Operations; John Kelly , Senior Vice President of Payment Products and Services, has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Consumer Lending;

, Senior Vice President of Payment Products and Services, has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Consumer Lending; Bozena Kalita , Senior Vice President of Infrastructure and Operations, has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Officer.

"Again it gives me great pleasure to promote from within our ranks," said PenFed Credit Union President and CEO James Schenck. "These four outstanding individuals, working with our 13-member Executive Team, will help us shape the future of PenFed and the next generation of PenFed leaders. Together, we will drive our continued growth and transformation, while fulfilling our mission to help our members  and our employees  reach their full potential."

Last week, Schenck announced promotions for two executive vice presidents. Lisa Jennings was promoted to First Senior Executive Vice President. Shashi Vohra was promoted to Senior Executive Vice President and President of Affiliated Businesses.

All six promotions will take effect August 11.

Gayton will report directly to Schenck and replace Kevyn Myers, Executive Vice President, COO and President of Payment Systems, who is retiring from PenFed after 28 years of outstanding distinguished service.

Chamorro, Kelly, and Kalita will report to Vohra.

Chamorro will be responsible for marketing and business development, and affiliated businesses including PenFed Realty, PenFed Title, CU Rate Reset, wealth management, and insurance products. He will also have oversight of the PenFed Foundation's recently launched Veterans Entrepreneur Investment Program. Chamorro has over 12 years of experience in financial services and investment banking, including leadership roles at USB Investment Bank and Lazard. He joined PenFed four years ago and initially served in the role of Senior Vice President. A graduate of West Point (B.S.) and Harvard Business School (MBA), Chamorro served as a military intelligence officer in the U.S. Army and was awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal and Bronze Star.

Gayton will oversee operations of PenFed service centers and branches, research and loan servicing. After leading teams in the U.S. military for 30 years with combat deployments to Iraq for Desert Shield/Storm in 1990-1991, and Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005-2006, he joined PenFed in 2017. He earned degrees from West Point (B.S.), MIT Sloan (MBA) and Pardee RAND (Ph.D.). He previously taught economics at West Point and culminated his military career by teaching economics at the National Defense University's Eisenhower School from 2015 to 2017.

Kelly will be responsible for consumer lending, including credit and debit cards, auto, personal and student loans. He will also lead retail consumer deposits and payment systems. Kelly has worked as a leader in the credit card industry for 21 years both domestically and internationally, having held various Senior Vice President roles for more than 10 years at Bank of America. He has been with PenFed for three years. Kelly most recently served in the role of Senior Vice President, Head of Payment Products and Services and, in this role, led the launch of PenFed's Power Cash Rewards Visa Signature card and PenFed Pathfinder Rewards American Express card  two of the most successful credit cards in the history of PenFed. He received his B.A. from East Carolina University.

Kalita will lead PenFed's enterprise-wide digital transformation in the role of Chief Digital Officer. She has been with PenFed for almost three years and an IT leader for 20 years. Kalita previously held positions at Capital One, HSBC and IBM. She holds Master's Degrees from Lviv National Polytechnic University (Ukraine), DePaul University and MBA Lake Forest Graduate School of Management. Kalita most recently served in the role of Senior Vice President, Infrastructure and Operations.

About PenFed Credit Union

Established in 1935 as the War Department Credit Union, Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) is America's second-largest federal credit union, serving 1.7 million members worldwide with $23.5 billion in assets. Our mission is to help members reach their financial potential. PenFed Credit Union offers market-leading mortgages, automobile loans, credit cards, student loans, checking, certificates, and a wide range of other financial services with members' interests always in mind. We have a proud history of serving those in the Armed Forces, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, Military Associations, eligible veterans and retirees, and their families. You may also qualify through membership in select organizations within our field of membership. PenFed Credit Union is federally insured by the NCUA and is an equal housing lender. To learn more about PenFed Credit Union, visit PenFed.org, like us on Facebook and follow us @PenFed on Twitter. Interested in working for PenFed? Check us out on LinkedIn. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

SOURCE PenFed Credit Union

Related Links

http://www.PenFed.org


ROSLYN, N.Y., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Physicians' Reciprocal Insurers ("PRI"), the second largest admitted medical malpractice insurer in New York State, today announced the renewal of a cooperative agreement, first established in 1998, with MagnaCare, a leading full-service health plan administrator based in New York. Under the agreement, full-time physicians associated with MagnaCare will receive a 7 percent discount off their malpractice premiums.

MagnaCare offers a range of services and access to a proprietary provider network of nearly 130,000 individually contracted physicians, hospitals, and healthcare providers.

"MagnaCare is known in New York State for being a trusted resource to patients and medical professionals alike," said Bruce Shulan, CEO of PRIMMA, PRI's wholly owned Attorney-in-Fact. "Their valuable partnership enables MagnaCare member physicians and medical facilities to offer more options to their patients. We have partnered with them for 20 years, and look forward to many more."

In addition to the 7 percent discount, qualified medical professionals could be eligible for other discounts as well, including:

10-Year Claims Free Discount: 12 percent

5-Year Claims Free Discount: 7.5 percent

Risk Management Discount: 5 percent

No Consent Discount: 5 percent

Annual Pre-Pay Discount: 2 percent

MagnaCare-associated physicians who meet all of the above qualifications could receive discounts up to 31 percent on their premiums.

For more information, please visit https://www.pri.com/.

About Physicians' Reciprocal Insurers

Physicians' Reciprocal Insurers (PRI), is the second largest admitted medical malpractice insurer in New York State and one of the Top Ten insurers in the country providing professional liability insurance to physicians and medical facilities. Founded in 1982 by doctors to serve the healthcare industry and its professionals, PRI continues to be a leader in providing coverage and innovative products that anticipate the needs and further the financial goals of policyholders, and offers key services to help improve the liability environment for doctors, chiropractors, dentists and healthcare facilities.

About MagnaCare

For more than 25 years, MagnaCare has provided innovative health care solutions to Taft-Hartley funds, TPAs, carriers, and workers' compensation and no-fault payors in the New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut tri-state area. Its broad and wholly owned network, full plan management services, comprehensive in-house medical management, and leading outcomes-based casualty solutions offer the ultimate flexibility and customization that help customers control health care costs, improve health, and achieve exceptional value. MagnaCare is a division of Brighton Health Plan Solutions, LLC.

SOURCE Physicians' Reciprocal Insurers

Related Links

https://www.pri.com


VANCOUVER, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Pivot Pharmaceuticals Inc. (CSE: PVOT /OTCQB: PVOTF / FRA: NPAT) ("Pivot" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has signed a Definitive Agreement with Israeli-based SoluBest Ltd. to acquire the worldwide rights for the use, development and commercialization of its patented Solumer Oral Drug Delivery Technology ("Solumer") for the improved bioavailability, delivery and commercialization of Cannabidiol (CBD), Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other biocannabis-based products.

Highlights:

Pivot acquires worldwide rights to Solumer Oral Drug Delivery Technology;

Actively pursuing opportunities with multinational food, beverage and healthcare companies;

SoluCBD and SoluTHC: ingredients for new category of cannabis-infused non-alcoholic beverages;

Ideally suited for cannabis-infused beverages; completely dispersible, odourless and flavourless;

Cost-effective, significantly improves bioavailability; reliable and consistent formulations

A patented and versatile technology, Solumer was developed by SoluBest Ltd. to maximize the solubility, bioavailability and physical stability of drug substances utilizing submicron particle engineering. SoluBest then achieves clear powder formulations through a spray drying process. Submicron technology has been proven in pre-clinical trials to significantly enhance bioavailability, and therefore drug performance. Dissolution profiles in intestinal media demonstrate a high dissolution rate and saturation solubility resulting in improved drug absorption, at a rate 10-15 times greater than control.

SoluBest's CEO and patent co-inventor, Dr. Galia Temtsin Krayz stated, "We are very excited to partner with Pivot to monetize our important patent. As the cannabis industry evolves, differentiated products that actually work will rapidly gain market share. After the recent testing of the Solumer solution, there is no doubt that this technology will be a disruptive force and will be the standard others will try to match. Pivot's formulations team has already identified potential uses for Solumer in multiple products and consumers will be impressed by the results."

Dr. Joseph Borovsky, Pivot's Executive Vice-President of Product Development commented, "I thank SoluBest for entrusting Pivot with the Solumer technology. We have now secured two distinct oil-to-powder technologies that are well suited for the food, beverage and healthcare industries resulting in the addition of several more products to our pipeline. The edibles market will allow customers to consume non-smokeable products while being able to fully enjoy the benefits of cannabinoids."

"The addition of Solumer further positions us to collaborate with multinational companies to introduce non-alcoholic cannabis-infused beverages to consumers. Pivot has the largest portfolio of platform technologies for the formulation and delivery of cannabinoids in the cannabis space," said Dr. Patrick Frankham, Pivot's CEO. "As we prepare to bring Pivot's industry leading pipeline of derivatives to market, we continue to aggressively execute on our business plan."

In 2016, cannabinoid edibles accounted for approximately 16% of U.S. sales of cannabis products.1 Furthermore, Cannabiz Consumer Group states that cannabis-infused beverages could represent a $15 billion market opportunity upon legalization.2

About SoluBest Ltd.

SoluBest Ltd. specializes in the development of customer tailored formulation and pilot production services - starting from the discovery and pre-clinical phases through to early clinical testing and scale-up. SoluBest was founded in 2001 to develop an easy-to-integrate technological platform for solving one of the most pressing issues facing the pharma industry: the problem of drug insolubility. For more information please visit www.solubest.com

About Pivot Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Pivot Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company engaged in the development and commercialization of therapeutic pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals using innovative drug delivery platform technologies. Pivot's wholly-owned medical cannabis products division, Pivot Green Stream Health Solutions Inc. ("PGS" or "Pivot Green Stream"), conducts research, development and commercialization of cannabinoid-based nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. Pivot's wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary, Pivot Naturals, LLC, based in Costa Mesa, California, will manufacture and supply finished powderized cannabis products such as food additives, capsules, bulk powder and stick packs to the California market. PGS has acquired "RTIC" Ready-To-Infuse Cannabis oil-to-powder technology and Thrudermic Transdermal Nanotechnology (transdermal); acquired worldwide rights to BiPhasix Dermal Drug Delivery platform technology (topical), Solmic Solubilisation technology (oral), and Solumer Oral Drug Delivery technology; and an option to acquire worldwide rights to TriVair Nasal and Pulmonary Breath-Propelled Drug Delivery Systems for the delivery and commercialization of cannabinoid, cannabidiol (CBD), and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-based products. For more information please visit www.PivotPharma.com

Cautionary Statement

Except for historical information contained herein, the matters set forth above may be forward-looking statements that involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements. Words such as anticipate, believe, estimate, expect, intend, and similar expressions, as they relate to Pivot Pharmaceuticals Inc., Pivot Green Stream Health Solutions Inc., Pivot Naturals, LLC, SoluBest Ltd., or its management, identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs of management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to management. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, such as the failure to meet the conditions imposed by the CSE or other securities regulators, the level of business and consumer spending, the amount of sales of Pivot's products, statements with respect to internal expectations, the competitive environment within the industry, the ability of Pivot to continue to expand its operations, the level of costs incurred in connection with Pivot's expansion efforts, economic conditions in the industry, and the financial strength of Pivot's customers and suppliers. Pivot does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking statements. Investors are also directed to consider all other risks and uncertainties.

SOURCE Pivot Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Rare Pediatric Disease Designation granted for the treatment of patients with Alstrom syndrome

Third Rare Pediatric Disease Designation obtained by Prometic

LAVAL, QC, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Prometic Life Sciences Inc. (TSX: PLI) (OTCQX: PFSCF) ("Prometic") today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted a Rare Pediatric Disease Designation to its small molecule drug candidate, PBI-4050, for the treatment of Alstrom syndrome (AS). In addition to the Rare Pediatric Disease Designation, PBI-4050 was previously granted Orphan Drug Designation by the FDA and the EMA for the treatments of AS and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) as well as PIM (Promising Innovative Medicine) designation by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for the treatment of IPF and AS.

"This is the first pediatric designation granted by the FDA to our small molecule drug candidate PBI-4050 and the third overall, following the previous two granted for our plasma-derived therapeutics candidates. This highlights the depth and value of our two drug discovery platforms," said Mr. Pierre Laurin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Prometic. "We look forward to discussing the potential regulatory approval pathway to bring this innovative therapy to pediatric patients with Alstrom syndrome during our upcoming meeting with the FDA."

The FDA grants Rare Pediatric Disease Designations for serious or life-threatening diseases wherein the serious or life-threatening manifestations primarily affect individuals aged from birth to 18 years, including age groups often called neonates, infants, children, and adolescents. If and when approved, Prometic's PBI-4050 could be eligible to receive a rare pediatric disease priority review voucher.

More about Alstrom syndrome:

Alstrom syndrome is a rare inherited autosomal recessive syndrome characterized by the onset of obesity in childhood or adolescence, Type 2 diabetes, often with severe insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension and severe multi-organ fibrosis involving the liver, kidney and heart. Alstrom syndrome is also characterized by a progressive loss of vision and hearing, a form of heart disease that weakens the heart muscle (dilated cardiomyopathy), and short stature. This disorder can also cause serious or life-threatening medical problems involving the liver, kidneys, bladder, and lungs. The clinical manifestations of Alstrom syndrome vary in severity, and not all affected individuals have all of the features associated with the disorder.

More about PBI-4050

PBI-4050 is an orally active lead drug candidate with excellent safety and efficacy profiles demonstrated in a large number of animal models of fibrosis affecting different organs, including the lung, liver, heart, kidney, and pancreas. The effects of PBI-4050 demonstrated in animal models have been replicated in Phase 2 studies in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), in metabolic syndrome with type 2 diabetes and in Alstrom syndrome. PBI-4050 is entering pivotal placebo-controlled Phase 3 clinical trials for the treatment of IPF and has already begun placebo-controlled Phase 2 trials in metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes patients.

About Prometic Life Sciences Inc.

Prometic (www.prometic.com) is a publicly traded (TSX symbol: PLI) (OTCQX symbol: PFSCF) biopharmaceutical corporation with two drug discovery platforms focusing on unmet medical needs. The first platform (small molecule therapeutics) stems from the discovery of two receptors which we believe are at the core of how the body heals: namely, promoting tissue regeneration and scar resolution as opposed to fibrosis. One of the lead drug candidates emerging from this platform, PBI-4050, is expected to enter pivotal phase 3 clinical trials for the treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). The second drug discovery and development platform (plasma-derived therapeutics) leverages Prometic's experience in bioseparation technologies used to isolate and purify biopharmaceuticals from human plasma. The Corporation's primary goal with respect to this second platform is to address unmet medical needs with therapeutic proteins not currently commercially available, such as Ryplazim (plasminogen). We are also leveraging this platform's higher recovery yield potential to advance established plasma-derived therapeutics such as Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG). Furthermore, the Corporation is continuing to secure its plasma supply through the execution of third party contracts and expansion of its own collection activities for its plasma processing needs. The Corporation also provides access to its proprietary bioseparation technologies to enable pharmaceutical companies in their production of non-competing biopharmaceuticals. Recognized as a bioseparations expert, the Corporation derives revenue from this activity through sales of affinity chromatography media which contributes to offset the costs of its own R&D investments.

We are headquartered in Laval, Quebec (Canada) and have R&D facilities in Canada, the United Kingdom ("UK") and the United States ("USA"), manufacturing facilities in Canada and the Isle of Man and corporate and business development activities in Canada, the USA, and Europe.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements about Prometic's objectives, strategies and businesses that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements are "forward-looking" because they are based on our current expectations about the markets we operate in and on various estimates and assumptions. Actual events or results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements if known or unknown risks affect our business, or if our estimates or assumptions turn out to be inaccurate. Such risks and assumptions include, but are not limited to, Prometic's ability to develop, manufacture, and successfully commercialize value-added pharmaceutical products, the availability of funds and resources to pursue R&D projects, the successful and timely completion of clinical studies, the ability of Prometic to take advantage of business opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry, uncertainties related to the regulatory process and general changes in economic conditions. You will find a more detailed assessment of the risks that could cause actual events or results to materially differ from our current expectations in Prometic's Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2017 under the heading "Risk and Uncertainties related to Prometic's business". As a result, we cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will materialize. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statement even if new information becomes available, as a result of future events or for any other reason, unless required by applicable securities laws and regulations. All amounts are in Canadian dollars unless indicated otherwise.

SOURCE ProMetic Life Sciences Inc.

Related Links

http://www.prometic.com


WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Realtors, members of the National Association of Realtors, will travel to Hanoi, Vietnam to join experts in the real estate industry from all over the world to learn, share, connect and transact during the 2018 International Real Estate Conference. Now in its fourth year, IREC will take place at the National Convention Center in Hanoi from September 6-7, with an expo extending from September 8-10.

The annual real estate conference brings together top experts to discuss the industry's most pressing trends and is an opportunity for international attendees to make connections with real estate professionals in one of the world's most dynamic regions.

"Nearly a quarter of Realtors reported that they worked with an international client in the last year, even as low inventory and higher home prices continue to affect the U.S. market. Demand from overseas remains strong; foreign buyers purchased a total of $121.0 billion of residential property last year and at a more expensive price than domestic buyers did, a comparison of $292,200 for a foreign median home price and $249,300 for domestic," said NAR President Elizabeth Mendenhall, a sixth-generation Realtor from Columbia, Missouri and CEO of RE/MAX Boone Realty.

This year's event draws upon the success of past events in the Philippines, South Korea and Thailand and includes high-level speakers such as the U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam and a representative from the Vietnamese Prime Minister's office.

"Realtors understand better than anyone that the U.S. real estate market continues to be seen as a safe, secure and profitable place to invest in property. IREC brings together NAR partner associations from all over the world to discuss cross-border opportunities and the many benefits of investing in the U.S. real estate market," Mendenhall said.

The conference kicks off with the NAR Global Leadership Summit, an invitation-only meeting where leaders from NAR's bilateral partners will convene to discuss hot topics and trends influencing the industry worldwide. Conference sessions, which are open to all registered attendees, will cover current industry topics such as artificial intelligence; big data, and data analytics; block chain; building construction and design trends; smart cities; global real estate market trends from each region; and more.

Over 1,000 conference attendees are expected, and 60,000 are expected to visit the conference exhibit hall. The host for IREC 2018 is the Vietnam National Real Estate Association; NAR is supporting the conference as a strategic partner.

The National Association of Realtors is America's largest trade association, representing 1.3 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

Information about NAR is available at www.nar.realtor. This and other news releases are posted in the newsroom under the "About NAR" tab.

SOURCE National Association of Realtors

Related Links

http://www.realtor.org


Reed's began the search for their new "Virgil's Genius" in April, with the launch of a nationwide contest, whereby applicants submitted videos describing why their own personal brand of genius would best represent the Virgil's brand. Virgil's is the smarter beverage choice and the new Zero Sugar line and has been described as "pure genius" by those who have had the product. Rogers was selected from a list of 20 finalistswith fans voting through the company's Instagram, @DrinkVirgils.

"For me, this all started when a friend of mine noticed I looked a lot like the new character on the front of the Virgil's bottles," said Rogers. When Reed's announced their search for a spokesperson, Rogers began a guerrilla campaign on Facebook and Twitter, rallying his fans to support his efforts to land the job. He even began showing up outside of trade shows, concerts, and anywhere he could find a crowd. "I have always loved Virgil's craft sodas, but once I had a chance to try the new Zero Sugars, that was it, I was hooked. I've always been a fan, but these guys have really cracked the code and created a great tasting, all-natural sugar free sodathis stuff is my kind of genius," Rogers added.

"We were really happy with the response we received to our Genius Contest," said Val Stalowir, CEO of Reed's Inc. "We were impressed by the wide variety of "genius submissions" we received. However, in the end, Austin and his fans hit us like a tsunami and won in a land slide. Austin and his loyal fans showed so much passion and enthusiasm for the brand, creating viral videos, and showing up everywhere we went, that we had no doubt he would be the perfect person to represent Virgil's and get our message out that it is time for America to trade up to a smarter soda," Stalowir added.

Unveiled earlier this year, Virgil's Zero Sugar can be found nationally at most Target and Kroger stores, at select Costcos and in numerous grocery, specialty and natural food retailers across the country. Available in 12oz. cans, Virgil's Zero Sugar is available in six flavors, including Root Beer, Black Cherry, Vanilla Cream, Cola, Lemon Lime and Orange. The company's proprietary blend of all-natural, zero sugar sweeteners delivers unbeatable taste without the artificial chemicals and preservatives found in most mainstream sodas.

To schedule an interview or appearance with Austin Rogers, contact John Rarrick at [email protected] or 845.480.4262. To learn more about Virgil's Zero Sugar, visit www.Virgils.com.

About Reed' s Inc.

Established in 1989, Reed's has sold over 500 million bottles of its category-leading natural, handcrafted beverages. Reed's is America's #1 selling Ginger Beer brand and has been the leader and innovator in the ginger beer category for decades. Virgil's is America's #1 selling independent, full line of natural craft sodas. The Reed's Inc. portfolio is sold in over 30,000 retail doors across the natural, specialty, grocery, drug, club and mass channels nationwide. Reed's Ginger Beers are unique to the category because of the proprietary process of hand brewing its award-winning products using fresh organic ginger combined with natural spices and fruit juices. Reed's Ginger Beers come in three levels of increasing ginger intensity that deliver a delicious and powerful ginger bite and burn that only comes from fresh ginger root. The Company uses this same handcrafted approach and dedication to the highest quality ingredients in its award-winning Virgil's line of great tasting, bold flavored craft sodas. Virgil's is also available in an all-natural line of great tasting, zero calorie, zero sugar flavors.

SOURCE Reeds Inc.
Highly regarded office leasing specialist becomes Principal, will advise office tenants based primarily in legal and financial services industries

NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Mitti Liebersohn, Avison Young Principal and President of the firm's New York City office, today announced the strategic hiring of highly regarded office leasing specialist Rick Marek.

Effective immediately, Marek becomes a Principal of Avison Young and will continue to advise tenants involved primarily in legal and financial services. Marek brings more than four decades of New York City commercial real estate experience to Avison Young, most recently as a co-founder and president of The Vortex Group since 2002.

"Over the past four decades, Rick has built an extremely distinguished career, and we're thrilled to announce that he is now part of our continually expanding office leasing team in New York City," comments Liebersohn. "Rick is a well-respected real estate market leader with the high level of experience and strategic thinking needed to complement Avison Young's already deep-seated New York team. He will serve as an integral asset to our clients and the other professionals in our firm, and we look forward to his future accomplishments as we continue to build our office sector market share throughout Manhattan."

During his career, Marek has assisted numerous law firms such as Akerman LLP as well as many financial tenants, including Lazard Freres & Co. LLC, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, Coller Capital and Key Square Capital Management LLC (which came out of the Soros Fund), with their office- space situations.

Liebersohn adds: "Throughout his career, Rick has made significant volunteer contributions to our industry and the local community. He understands the meaning of global citizenship, a core component of Avison Young. He will help us grow our business and increase our philanthropic efforts."

Marek has been active with the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) since starting his real estate career at Julien J. Studley Inc. at age 21, one week after receiving a Master of Business Administration degree from Syracuse University. He was chair of REBNY's Plaza committee for 22 years, participated for two terms on the group's commercial board of directors and, since 2015, the REBNY board of governors. In 2004, he received the Kenneth R. Gerrety Humanitarian Award at the annual REBNY dinner for initiating a fundraising effort among all REBNY members on September 11, 2001 to support the needy children of the porters at the World Trade Center and workers at Windows on the World restaurant who had lost their lives on that day.

Marek is active in other areas of the community as well. He co-founded the DirectEffect research program at Rockefeller University in 1992 and is a member of the university's council. He has also been a trustee of Educational Alliance, a member agency of the United Jewish Appeal (UJA), for more than 20 years.

"I am eager to play a leading role in the expansion of Avison Young's office leasing and overall brokerage footprint in New York City," says Marek. "I look forward to being part of this firm's collaborative culture, client-centric business model and full-service platform. This is a great opportunity to play a leadership role with a highly entrepreneurial organization and work alongside some of the best professionals in our business."

Marek's addition represents another key component of Avison Young's ongoing New York-area recruitment drive, which has resulted in more than 30 hires, including several new principals, since the beginning of 2018.

Avison Young is the world's fastest-growing commercial real estate services firm. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, Avison Young is a collaborative, global firm owned and operated by its principals. Founded in 1978, the company comprises 2,600 real estate professionals in 84 offices, providing value-added, client-centric investment sales, leasing, advisory, management, financing and mortgage placement services to owners and occupiers of office, retail, industrial, multifamily and hospitality properties.

For further information/comment/photos:

Sherry Quan , Principal and Global Director of Communications & Media Relations,

Avison Young : 604.647.5098; cell: 604.726.0959 [email protected]





, Principal and Global Director of Communications & Media Relations, : cell: Tom Nolan / Francisco Miranda , Great Ink PR, New York, 212.741.2977

[email protected] ; [email protected]





, Great Ink PR, New York, ; Christy Ullo , Senior Director of Marketing, Tri-State Region, Avison Young : 212.230.5990

www.avisonyoung.com

Avison Young is a 2018 winner of the Canada's Best Managed Companies Platinum Club designation, having retained its Best Managed designation for seven consecutive years.

Follow Avison Young on Twitter:

For industry news, press releases and market reports: www.twitter.com/avisonyoung

For Avison Young listings and deals: www.twitter.com/AYListingsDeals

Follow Avison Young Bloggers: http://blog.avisonyoung.com

Follow Avison Young on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/avison-young-commercial-real-estate

Follow Avison Young on YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/AvisonYoungRE

Follow Avison Young on Instagram: www.instagram.com/avison_young_global

Editors/Reporters

 Please click on link to view and download photo of Rick Marek: https://www.avisonyoung.com/documents/20342/2631393/Frederick+Marek.jpg

SOURCE Avison Young Commercial Real Estate (BC)

Related Links

www.avisonyoung.com


CHESTER, N.Y., Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Repro Med Systems, Inc. dba RMS Medical Products (OTCQX: REPR) today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2018.

Net sales grew for the fifth consecutive quarter to $4.5 million, a 17.6% increase over the second quarter of 2017. The increase in net sales was driven by higher needle set sales, which we believe were bolstered by the FDA clearance on August 31, 2017, for the RMS "Integrated Catch-Up Freedom Syringe Driver Infusion System". Net sales during the period included approximately $0.3 million of revenue related to one-time sales to support the clinical activities of various pharmaceutical companies.

Gross profit grew to $2.7 million, a 19.3% increase over the second quarter of 2017 and a gross margin improvement of 80 basis points. The increase in gross profit and margin is principally the result of higher net sales.

Net income for the period increased to a record $475,723, or 10.6% of net sales, which compares with $148,472 reported during the second quarter of 2017. Higher net sales combined with improved gross profit on relatively flat operating expenses and a favorable tax rate change were principally responsible for the increase in profitability.

"Second quarter results were strong as RMS continues to grow market share within its core indications, as well as pursue new opportunities," stated Dan Goldberger, Chairman and interim President and CEO. "As we undergo the next phase of RMS's development, I want to assure all of our stakeholders that we will continue to pursue our mission to improve the quality of life of patients around the world through the design, development, and delivery of the highest quality innovative therapeutic solutions. Patient safety, product efficacy, respect for all of our stakeholders, customer service, and building shareholder value continue to be our highest priorities."

On July 26, 2018, the Company announced that RMS Medical Products' Board of Directors appointed Daniel Goldberger, Board Member, to the position of Chairman and interim President and Chief Executive Officer, replacing Andy Sealfon who will remain on the Board of Directors. Please reference the Company's recent press release and filings for background information.

Conference Call

The Company will host a conference call to discuss the second quarter 2018 financial results and business developments on Tuesday, August 7, 2018, at 9:00 AM ET. Please refer to the information below for conference call dial-in information and webcast registration:

Conference date: August 7, 2018, 9:00 AM ET

Conference dial-in: 877-269-7756

International dial-in: 201-689-7817

Conference Call Name: RMS Medical Products (OTCQX: REPR) Second Quarter 2018 Results Call

Webcast Registration: Click Here

Following the live call, a replay will be available on the Company's website, www.rmsmedicalproducts.com, under "Investor Relations" for a period of one year.

About RMS Medical Products

The Company develops, manufactures and commercializes medical products used for home infusions and suctioning. The FREEDOM Syringe Infusion System currently includes the FREEDOM60 and FreedomEdge Syringe Infusion Drivers, RMS Precision Flow Rate Tubing and RMS HIgH-Flo Subcutaneous Safety Needle Sets. These devices are used for infusions administered in professional healthcare settings as well as at home. The Company's RES-Q-VAC line of medical suctioning products is used by emergency medical service providers in addition to a variety of other healthcare providers. For more information about RMS Medical Products, please visit www.rmsmedicalproducts.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In addition to statements which explicitly describe such risks and uncertainties, readers are urged to consider statements labeled with the term "believe" to be uncertain and forward-looking. The forward-looking statements contained herein are also subject generally to other risks and uncertainties that are described from time to time in the Company's reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The results of operations for the periods presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected in the future.

REPRO MED SYSTEMS, INC. BALANCE SHEETS





June 30,

December 31,





2018

2017





(Unaudited)





ASSETS





























CURRENT ASSETS













Cash and cash equivalents

$ 3,421,186

$ 3,974,536

Certificate of deposit (restricted cash)



1,504,818





Certificates of deposit



159,462



263,269

Accounts receivable less allowance for doubtful accounts of

$77,067 at June 30, 2018 and $77,067 at December 31, 2017



1,840,094



1,861,949

Inventory



1,718,294



1,658,681

Prepaid expenses



255,888



170,739

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS



8,899,742



7,929,174

Property and equipment, net



795,484



836,283

Patents, net of accumulated amortization of $220,340 and $203,768 at June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively



531,685



483,821

Other assets



31,582



31,582

TOTAL ASSETS

$ 10,258,493

$ 9,280,860

















LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY





























CURRENT LIABILITIES













Deferred capital gain - current

$ 15,003

$ 22,481

Accounts payable



711,947



454,398

Accrued expenses



539,473



658,060

Accrued payroll and related taxes



187,307



334,903

Accrued tax liability



91,488



115,854

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES



1,545,218



1,585,696

Deferred capital gain  long term







3,762

Deferred tax liability



20,733



21,675

TOTAL LIABILITIES



1,565,951



1,611,133

















STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY













Common stock, $0.01 par value; 75,000,000 shares authorized, 40,907,991 and 40,731,529 shares issued, 38,170,760 and 37,994,298 shares outstanding at June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively



409,080



407,315

Additional paid-in capital



4,358,618



4,216,718

Retained earnings



4,269,048



3,389,898







9,036,746



8,013,931

Less: Treasury stock, 2,737,231 shares at June 30, 2018 and December

31, 2017



(344,204)



(344,204)

TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY



8,692,542



7,669,727

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

$ 10,258,493

$ 9,280,860



REPRO MED SYSTEMS, INC. STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)





For the Three Months Ended

For the Six months Ended





June 30,

June 30,





2018

2017

2018

2017





























NET SALES

$ 4,502,326

$ 3,829,457

$ 8,535,550

$ 7,467,893

Cost of goods sold



1,762,742



1,532,158



3,330,142



3,068,639

Gross Profit



2,739,584



2,297,299



5,205,408



4,399,254





























OPERATING EXPENSES

























Selling, general and administrative



2,022,631



2,005,336



3,902,900



3,780,445

Research and development



23,963



24,840



33,811



70,746

Depreciation and amortization



75,978



76,781



150,556



151,662

Total Operating Expenses



2,122,572



2,106,957



4,087,267



4,002,853





























Net Operating Profit



617,012



190,342



1,118,141



396,401





























Non-Operating (Expense)/Income

























(Loss)/Gain on currency exchange



(19,838)



34,670



(10,414)



51,744

Interest and other income



5,501



421



6,116



2,066

TOTAL OTHER (EXPENSE)/INCOME



(14,337)



35,091



(4,298)



53,810





























PROFIT BEFORE TAXES



602,675



225,433



1,113,843



450,211





























Income Tax Expense



(126,952)



(76,961)



(234,693)



(174,788)





























NET INCOME

$ 475,723

$ 148,472

$ 879,150

$ 275,423





























NET INCOME PER SHARE





















































Basic

$ 0.01

$ 

$ 0.02

$ 0.01

Diluted

$ 0.01

$ 

$ 0.02

$ 0.01





























WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER

OF COMMON SHARES

OUTSTANDING





















































Basic



38,100,040



37,825,209



38,058,500



37,799,981

Diluted



38,872,998



37,899,619



38,815,301



37,866,730



REPRO MED SYSTEMS, INC. STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)





For the Six Months Ended





June 30,





2018

2017

















CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES













Net Income

$ 879,150

$ 275,423

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by/(used in)

operating activities:













Amortization of deferred compensation cost







7,000

Stock based compensation expense



94,170



41,479

Depreciation and amortization



150,556



151,662

Deferred capital gain - building lease



(11,240)



(11,240)

Deferred taxes



(941)



12,937

Provision for returns and doubtful accounts







(5,603)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:













Decrease/(Increase) in accounts receivable



21,855



(597,699)

(Increase)/Decrease in inventory



(59,613)



94,177

(Increase)/Decrease in prepaid expense and other assets



(85,149)



33,174

Increase/(Decrease) in accounts payable



257,549



(492,919)

(Decrease)/Increase in accrued payroll and related taxes



(147,597)



71,113

Decrease in accrued expense



(118,587)



(12,207)

(Decrease)/Increase in accrued tax liability



(24,366)



161,851

NET CASH PROVIDED BY/(USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES



955,787



(270,852)

















CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES













Payments for capital expenditures



(93,185)



(89,437)

Purchase of certificate of deposit (restricted cash)



(1,500,000)





Reinvested earnings on certificate of deposit (restricted cash)



(4,818)





Payments for patents



(64,436)



(53,346)

Proceeds/(reinvested earnings) from certificates of deposit



103,807



(1,196)

NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES



(1,558,632)



(143,979)

















CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES













Stock issuances



51,250





Payment for cancelled shares



(1,755)



(19,360)

Purchase of treasury stock







(484)

NET CASH PROVIDED BY/(USED) IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES



49,495



(19,844)

















NET DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS



(553,350)



(434,675)

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD



3,974,536



3,417,183

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD

$ 3,421,186

$ 2,982,508

















Supplemental Information













Cash paid during the periods for:













Interest

$ 

$ 

Taxes

$ 260,000

$ 

















NON-CASH FINANCING AND INVESTING ACTIVITIES













Issuance of common stock as compensation

$ 67,500

$ 67,500



Contact

CG Capital

877.889.1972

[email protected]

SOURCE RMS Medical Products

Related Links

http://www.rmsmedicalproducts.com


FAIRFAX, Va., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Salient CRGT, Inc. announced the procurement of a $6.4 million award as a subcontractor to THE CENTECH GROUP, Inc. under the NETCENTS-2, Air Force Net Operations Small Business Set-Aside contract to provide Weapon System (WS) maintenance, operations, and support services to the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Cryptologic and Cyber Systems Division (AFLCMC/ HNCYD).

As a subcontractor with tremendous experience transforming IT services, Salient CRGT is ready to tackle the complex system of systems supporting the Air Force's headquarters for cyber operations. Salient CRGT will support Weapon System (WS) operations and maintenance (O&M) services including legacy infrastructure, network, systems and operations support for the Cyber Command & Control Mission System (C3MS). The work will be performed at Joint Base San Antonio supporting the Command and Control mission for Air Forces Cyber (AFCYBER). Salient CRGT's industry leading approach to IT Service Delivery will dramatically improve system performance, reduce system outages, and allow the program management office to mature this critical node to support future multi-domain operations.

With over 318,415 active duty personnel, the USAF operates more than 5,360 military aircraft, 400 ICBMs and 170 military satellites, and 39 Cyber Mission Teams supporting combat operations around the world. AFLCMC is responsible for the acquisition and complete life cycle support of all aircraft, engines, munitions, and electronic/cyber systems for the USAF and its international partners.

"We are excited to team with CENTECH providing critical cyber mission support to the USAF," said Tom Ferrando, CEO of Salient CRGT. "Operating, sustaining, and modernizing the system that provides the situational awareness, direction, and control of cyber forces to effectively integrate cyber operations with combat operations in other domains."

About Salient CRGT

Salient CRGT provides agile software development, health, data analytics, mobility, cyber security and infrastructure solutions. We support these core capabilities with full lifecycle IT services and trainingto help our customers meet critical goals for pivotal missions. We are purpose built for IT transformation supporting federal civilian, health, defense, homeland, and intelligence agencies, as well as Fortune 1000 companies. We use the most innovative talent delivery model in the industry, scientifically providing exactly the right people for the customers' most pressing requirements. Salient CRGT has earned a record of success with integration and operations of largescale, highvolume solutions. Visit our newsroom and explore www.salientcrgt.com .

Tweet: [email protected]_CRGT Awarded $6.4M Subcontract to Provide IT Support Services to #USAF Cyber Command http://bit.ly/1MGSz5l

SOURCE Salient CRGT, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.salientcrgt.com


LINCOLN, Neb., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Sandhills Publishing will host a dealer forum in Kingston, Ontario on August 17th. The event will attract equipment dealers, brokers, rental and leasing companies, auctioneers, and other industry professionals across the construction, agriculture, trucking, and aviation industries for timely discussions about key market trends, challenges, and opportunities, as well as best practices for valuating, pricing, advertising, and the overall remarketing of assets to buyers in these industries.

Sandhillsthe Nebraska-based tech company behind such brands as MarketBook, Machinery Trader, CraneTrader, TractorHouse, Truck Paper, RentalYard, AuctionTime.com, and othershas held a number of similar events across North America over its four-decade history. This includes an annual Global Forum in Lincoln, Nebraska; this year's is set to begin Tuesday. The Ontario forum will focus primarily on best practices for remarketing construction and agriculture equipment, trucks, and trailers using simple technology to capitalize on industry trends, market demand, and internal efficiencies. Seminars and discussions will center on leveraging technology to perform real-time asset valuations and the most profitable avenues for retail, rental, wholesale, and auction. Attendees will have opportunities to participate in roundtable-style discussions and one-on-one sessions, and see product demonstrations for tools like Sandhills' asset valuation software, FleetEvaluator.

"The upcoming Ontario forum is an opportunity for equipment dealers, auctioneers, and other sellers across the region to collaborate on key challenges and opportunities facing their industries," explains Sandhills' Chief Administration Officer Nancy Paasch. "Attendees come away with insights, information, and tools they can implement immediately."

For more information or to reserve a place at the upcoming forum, contact Sandhills directly.

About Sandhills Publishing

Sandhills Publishing is an information processing company headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska. Our products and services gather, process, and distribute information in the form of trade publications, websites, and online services that connect buyers and sellers across the trucking, agriculture, construction, heavy equipment, aviation, and technology industries. Our integrated, industry-specific approach to hosted technologies and services offers solutions that help businesses large and small operate efficiently and grow securely, cost-effectively, and successfully. Sandhills Publishingwe are the cloud.

Contact Sandhills:

120 West Harvest Drive

Lincoln, NE 68521

www.Sandhills.com

[email protected]

(402) 479-2181

SOURCE Sandhills Publishing Company
The leader of SAPRAC's voluntary delegation said that the community in the City of Redding deserves help due to being greatly affected by the fire and needs continued and additional support from American charitable and governmental institutions. He added that SAPRAC's voluntary sense of social responsibility towards relief efforts is keen to the national spirit of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia which was displayed in service towards the American community in Redding. The volunteer delegation from SAPRAC was made up of young Saudi women and men eager to help local California communities affected by the fire.

Barbara Davis, director of the Creekside Center in the City of Redding, said the center was surprised when SAPRAC reached out to coordinate with them to provide assistance and that her team was thankful for the Saudi students and volunteers who presented a beautiful picture of their country and international service in Redding.

In the preparation and donation phases, Mrs. Davis expressed her appreciation while shedding tears of joy and gratitude for the SARPAC team and praised their volunteer work to help the affected people. She thanked all Saudi volunteers and every effort they provided to assist fire victims.

During the distribution of material support, SARPAC volunteers listened to stories from one of the victims who spoke of suffering affecting her, her relatives and community as the burning fire caused the destruction of her property and several other familiar nearby houses. She thanked SAPRAC and the Saudi volunteers for their efforts describing them as giving her a spirit of hope for her and her family to overcome this tragedy.

During a visit to an affected area, SAPRAC volunteers met California Army National Guard Officer Sgt. Geoffers in which she discussed her vital role responsible for protecting areas affected by the fires. She spoke to the team about the security arrangements to protect civilians as well as all other U.S. National Guard operations throughout the crisis. The SAPRAC team completed their volunteer journey and extends great thanks and appreciation to the Creekside Center for their collaborative aid efforts and for the protection services provided by the California Army National Guard.

1101 30th Street NW Suite 315, Washington, D.C. 20007 | +1 (202)-380-3570 | [email protected]

SOURCE SAPRAC

Related Links

http://www.saprac.org/


SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- SME Media has recognized 30 of the brightest young minds in manufacturing, engineering and research in its sixth-annual "30 Under 30" edition of Manufacturing Engineering magazine. The 30 young men and women were nominated by educators, managers and enterprise owners for their exceptional accomplishments  notably and remarkably achieved by each before the age of 30.

Many of the group are already exploring new advanced technologies and expanding boundaries in the manufacturing industry at Boeing, Pratt & Whitney, Northrop Grumman, FCA, General Motors and other leading manufacturing companies. Many are entrepreneurs or have assumed leadership roles in family enterprises, while the remaining 30 Under 30 honorees are educators, researchers and academic leaders.

"These brilliant, energetic, creative young professionals have shared their inspiring stories of exploration and education; of passion and expertise," said Sandra Bouckley, FSME, P.Eng., interim executive director and CEO of SME. "With their talent and ability, these impressive people are the future and promise of manufacturing."

Some notable examples of roles, responsibilities and accomplishment among the 2018 class of 30 Under 30:

Maeve Guilfoyle , of the Limerick Institute of Technology/Takumi Precision Engineering, Woodcock Hill, Meelick, County Clare, Ireland , who made the unlikely transition from music to manufacturing. "Since I was 12 years old," said Guilfoyle, "music was all I wanted to do." During a break from her music classes, she took a job at Takumi Precision on a six-month contract that led Takumi to offer her a scholarship in precision engineering.



of the Limerick Institute of Technology/Takumi Precision Engineering, Woodcock Hill, Meelick, , who made the unlikely transition from music to manufacturing. "Since I was 12 years old," said Guilfoyle, "music was all I wanted to do." During a break from her music classes, she took a job at Takumi Precision on a six-month contract that led Takumi to offer her a scholarship in precision engineering. Amberlee Haselhuhn , with GM in Warren, Michigan , originally wanted to be a medical doctor, but found that after an introduction to a materials science course, she "absolutely loved it." An internship with a metal casting house revealed the innovative work possible through materials science and engineering.



with GM in , originally wanted to be a medical doctor, but found that after an introduction to a materials science course, she "absolutely loved it." An internship with a metal casting house revealed the innovative work possible through materials science and engineering. Zongchang Liu , of the University of Cincinnati , Cincinnati . As an undergrad, he earned bachelor's degrees in both electrical and manufacturing engineering with a minor in interdisciplinary design for global healthcare, all in the span of four years. Liu also holds 11 patents and is the principal or contributing author to six journal papers, many of them dealing with electric vehicles and wind turbines.



of the , . As an undergrad, he earned bachelor's degrees in both electrical and manufacturing engineering with a minor in interdisciplinary design for global healthcare, all in the span of four years. Liu also holds 11 patents and is the principal or contributing author to six journal papers, many of them dealing with electric vehicles and wind turbines. Loren Townes , with Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, Michigan , graduated with honors from the Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University in Detroit and is a driving force behind Washtenaw Community College's efforts to engage young people in the fields of autonomous and connected vehicles and advanced manufacturing.

Profiles of all the individual honorees are available at AdvancedManufacturing.org.

About SME

SME connects manufacturing professionals, academia and communities, sharing knowledge and resources to build inspired, educated and prosperous manufacturers and enterprises. With more than 85 years of experience and expertise in events, media, membership, training and development, and also through an education foundation, SME is committed to promoting manufacturing technology, developing a skilled workforce and attracting future generations to advance manufacturing. Learn more at sme.org, follow @SME_MFG on Twitter or facebook.com/SMEmfg.

About SME Media

SME Media is a leading source for news and in-depth technical information about advanced manufacturing in North America. It serves an audience of more than 100,000 manufacturing professionals who subscribe to the monthly magazine, iTunes app, e-newsletters and other publications. Coverage is focused on some of the world's most critical industries: aerospace and defense, motorized vehicles, medical and energy, whether that's oil and gas, nuclear, electric, solar or wind. Learn more at advancedmanufacturing.org, follow @MfgEngNews on Twitter or facebook.com/AdvancedManufacturingMedia .

SOURCE SME

Related Links

http://www.sme.org


The Director of the Multi-sector Regional Office of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, UNESCO, for Central Africa in Yaounde Salah Khaled, has announced the agencys possible partnership with the National Commission for the Promotion of Bilingualism and Multiculturalism, NCPBM.

The Central Africa UNESCO boss made the pronouncement on July 31, after an audience with the President of NCPBM, Peter Mafany Musonge.

Talking to the Press after his audience, Salah Khaled said, it is of immense importance for UNESCO to collaborate with NCPBM.

As you know, UNESCO stands for the promotion of Culture, diversity and promotes the values necessary for peace building, he said.

To the director, the possible partnership with the Commission will be on programs related to education, culture, Communication, information among others which are the key pillars of UNESCOs mandate.

UNESCO has been working with different Ministries and I think with the commission, we can strengthen this partnership together with the government and make sure that the younger generation of this country has the knowledge necessary of the rich, diverse heritage and promote values of living together. This is one of the core mandates of UNESCO throughout diverse programmes and activities, he added.

He also added that, they discussed on how to promote the knowledge of the younger generation through the history of Cameroon, which will be part of the big project between them.

This to him, has been undertaking since the 60s on the general history of Africa which was a big achievement written by Africans.

I think that the region here in central Africa, hasnt been given the due importance, and it is now an opportunity to work with the commission he explained.

To work on this project for Cameroon according to him, they must look at the history of Cameroon and make the possibilities for the younger students or generations, know the real history of their country written by Cameroonians.

To the UNESCO Director, this is one of the opportunity of partnership that he discussed with the Commission and other opportunities related to media, information, literacy and how to have to this critical analytical knowledge when they deal with materials online and the Internet as a whole.

Appointed Director of the Multi-sector Regional Office of UNESCO for Central Africa in Yaounde on February 1, 2018, Salah Khaled who hails from Egypt was since August 1, 2016 the Head of the Rabat Office and Interim Representative of UNESCO for morocco, Algeria and Mauritania, in replacement of Michael Millward.












PETACH TIKVA, Israel, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Giora Bardea, Interim CEO of Strauss Group (TASE: STRS): "Strauss Group delivers another quarter of solid growth, following the trend of previous quarters. The Group reports a strong set of results in Q2 2018 with sales and earnings growth in Strauss Israel and in its global operations.

The results of the Group's operations in Israel reflect continued outperformance versus the domestic food and beverage market, taking the company's market share in Israel to 12% of the food and beverage sector. Most of this revenue growth was achieved thanks to product innovation and diversification, which will be maintained in the future.

Strauss's global operations post another excellent quarter across all businesses: coffee margins expand, the water business in China continues to gain momentum, sales at Sabra in North America are growing and Obela is strengthening its position in Australia and New Zealand. The Group's international activity, which accounts for around half of its revenue, continues to expand, and we plan to maintain this strategy going forward."

Q2 2018 highlights(1)

Organic sales growth, excluding foreign exchange effects, was c6.4%. Shekel sales were NIS c2.1 billion compared to NIS 2 billion in the corresponding period in 2017; sales were impacted by a negative currency translation amounting to NIS c53 million, mainly as a result of the depreciation of the BRL against the NIS compared to last year.

in the corresponding period in 2017; sales were impacted by a negative currency translation amounting to NIS c53 million, mainly as a result of the depreciation of the BRL against the NIS compared to last year. Gross profit was NIS c813 million (c38.7% of sales), up c8% compared to the corresponding period last year. Gross margins were up c1.8%.

Operating profit (EBIT) was NIS c207 million (c9.9% of sales), up c11.2% compared to the corresponding period last year. EBIT margins were up c0.8%.

EPS for shareholders of the Company was NIS c0.97, up c10.6% compared to the corresponding period.

Positive cash flows from operating activities totaled NIS c190 million, compared to NIS c199 million in the corresponding period last year.

(1) Data represent the Company's non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses (without implementation of IFRS 11) and do not include share-based payment, valuation of the balance of commodity hedging transactions as at end-of-period, including adjustments required for deferral of profit or loss from commodity derivatives until the inventory is sold to external parties, and other income and expenses, net, unless stated otherwise

H1 2018 highlights(1)

Organic sales growth, excluding foreign exchange effects, was c7.1%. Shekel sales were NIS c4.3 billion compared to NIS 4.1 billion in the corresponding period in 2017; sales were impacted by a negative currency translation amounting to NIS c104 million, mainly as a result of the depreciation of the BRL against the NIS compared to last year.

in the corresponding period in 2017; sales were impacted by a negative currency translation amounting to NIS c104 million, mainly as a result of the depreciation of the BRL against the NIS compared to last year. Gross profit was NIS c1,646 million (c38.5% of sales), up c7.4% compared to the corresponding period last year. Gross margins were up c1.3%.

Operating profit (EBIT) was NIS c461 million (c10.8% of sales), up c12.7% compared to the corresponding period last year. EBIT margins were up c0.9%.

EPS for shareholders of the Company was NIS c2.25, up c15.3% compared to the corresponding period.

Positive cash flows from operating activities totaled NIS c296 million, compared to NIS c113 million in the corresponding period last year.

(1) Data represent the Company's non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses (without implementation of IFRS 11) and do not include share-based payment, valuation of the balance of commodity hedging transactions as at end-of-period, including adjustments required for deferral of profit or loss from commodity derivatives until the inventory is sold to external parties, and other income and expenses, net, unless stated otherwise

Non GAAP Figures (1)







Second Quarter

2018 2017 Change Total Group Sales (NIS mm) 2,103 2,042 3.0% Organic Sales Growth excluding FX



6.4% Gross Profit (NIS mm) 813 753 8.0% Gross Margins (%) 38.7% 36.9% +180 bps EBITDA (NIS mm) 264 243 9.2% EBITDA Margins (%) 12.6% 11.9% +70 bps EBIT (NIS mm) 207 187 11.2% EBIT Margins (%) 9.9% 9.1% +80 bps Net Income Attributable to the

Company's Shareholders (NIS mm) 112 97 14.0% Net Income Margin Attributable to the

Company's Shareholders (%) 5.3% 4.8% +50 bps EPS (NIS) 0.97 0.88 10.6% Operating Cash Flow (NIS mm) 190 199 -4.7% Capex (NIS mm) (2) -76 -71 7.0% Net debt (NIS mm) 2,143 2,138 0.3% Net debt / annual EBITDA 2.0x 2.2x (0.2x)

(1) Data represent the Company's non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses (without implementation of IFRS 11) and do not include share-based payment, valuation of the balance of commodity hedging transactions as at end-of-period, including adjustments required for deferral of profit or loss from commodity derivatives until the inventory is sold to external parties, and other income and expenses, net, unless stated otherwise.

(2) Investments include the acquisition of fixed assets and investment in intangible assets.

Note: Financial data were rounded to NIS millions. Percentages changes were calculated on the basis of the exact figures in NIS thousands.

Non GAAP Figures (1)



















Second Quarter

Sales (NIS

mm) Sales

Growth vs.

Last Year Organic

Sales

Growth

excluding

FX EBIT (NIS

mm) NIS Change

in EBIT % Change

in EBIT EBIT

margins Change in

EBIT

margins vs.

2017 Sales and EBIT by Operating

Segments and Activities















Strauss Israel:















Health & Wellness 536 3.9% 3.9% 56 1 1.9% 10.4% -20 bps Fun & Indulgence (2) 242 9.6% 9.6% 13 2 28.6% 5.8% +90 bps Total Strauss Israel 778 5.6% 5.6% 69 3 6.4% 8.9% --

















Strauss Coffee:















Coffee Israel 158 6.2% 6.2% 18 1 9.8% 11.6% +40 bps International Coffee (2) 820 -1.5% 5.3% 89 5 5.1% 10.9% +70 bps Total Strauss Coffee 978 -0.3% 5.5% 107 6 5.8% 11.0% +60 bps

















International Dips & Spreads:















Sabra (50%) (2) 178 9.7% 10.0% 20 11 117.5% 11.2% +570 bps Obela (50%) (2) 18 21.1% 19.5% -2 1 NM NM NM Total International Dips & Spreads 197 10.7% 10.8% 18 12 187.4% 9.3% +570 bps

















Strauss Water (2)(3) 150 10.6% 10.5% 17 5 44.9% 11.3% +270 bps

















Other (4) 0 -100.0% NM -4 -6 -364.2% NM NM Total Group 2,103 3.0% 6.4% 207 20 11.2% 9.9% +80 bps

(1) Data represent the Company's non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses (without implementation of IFRS 11) and do not include share-based payment, valuation of the balance of commodity hedging transactions as at end-of-period, including adjustments required for deferral of profit or loss from commodity derivatives until the inventory is sold to external parties, and other income and expenses, net, unless stated otherwise.

(2) Fun & Indulgence figures include Strauss's 50% share in the salty snacks business. International Coffee figures include Strauss's 50% share in the Tres Coracoes joint venture (3C)  Brazil  a company jointly held by the Group (50%) and by the local Sao Miguel Group (50%). International D&S figures reflect Strauss's 50% share in Sabra and Obela. Strauss Water figures include Strauss's share in the joint venture in China, Haier Strauss Water (HSW). Until August 2017 the Company held a 34% stake in the joint venture, and commencing in September 2017, its percentage holding increased to 49% following the acquisition of an additional 15%.

(3) Commencing in the first quarter of 2018, Company Management has elected to report the results of the Strauss Water segment, formerly presented within the Other Operations segment, separately.

(4) In the second quarter of 2017 the Company sold the Max Brenner operation.

Note: Financial data were rounded to NIS millions. Percentages changes were calculated on the basis of the exact figures in NIS thousands. Total figures for International Dips & Spreads were calculated on the basis of the exact figures for Sabra and Obela in NIS thousands.

Non GAAP Figures (1)







First Half

2018 2017 Change Total Group Sales (NIS mm) 4,270 4,125 3.5% Organic Sales Growth excluding FX



7.1% Gross Profit (NIS mm) 1,646 1,533 7.4% Gross Margins (%) 38.5% 37.2% +130 bps EBITDA (NIS mm) 575 521 10.7% EBITDA Margins (%) 13.5% 12.6% +90 bps EBIT (NIS mm) 461 410 12.7% EBIT Margins (%) 10.8% 9.9% +90 bps Net Income Attributable to the Company's

Shareholders (NIS mm) 258 213 21.0% Net Income Margin Attributable to the

Company's Shareholders (%) 6.0% 5.2% +80 bps EPS (NIS) 2.25 1.95 15.3% Operating Cash Flow (NIS mm) 296 113 161.5% Capex (NIS mm) (2) -146 -132 10.6% Net debt (NIS mm) 2,143 2,138 0.3% Net debt / annual EBITDA 2.0x 2.2x (0.2x)

(1) Data represent the Company's non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses (without implementation of IFRS 11) and do not include share-based payment, valuation of the balance of commodity hedging transactions as at end-of-period, including adjustments required for deferral of profit or loss from commodity derivatives until the inventory is sold to external parties, and other income and expenses, net, unless stated otherwise.

(1) Investments include the acquisition of fixed assets and investment in intangibles assets.

Note: Financial data were rounded to NIS millions. Percentages changes were calculated on the basis of the exact figures in NIS thousands.

Non GAAP Figures (1)



















First Half

Sales (NIS

mm) Sales

Growth vs.

Last Year Organic

Sales

Growth

excluding

FX EBIT (NIS

mm) NIS

Change in

EBIT % Change

in EBIT EBIT

margins Change in

EBIT

margins vs.

2017 Sales and EBIT by Operating

Segments and Activities















Strauss Israel:















Health & Wellness 1,068 6.5% 6.5% 110 2 2.0% 10.3% -40 bps Fun & Indulgence (2) 576 4.2% 4.2% 68 5 8.9% 12.0% +60 bps Total Strauss Israel 1,644 5.7% 5.7% 178 7 4.5% 10.9% -10 bps

















Strauss Coffee:















Coffee Israel 375 3.7% 3.7% 59 2 5.0% 15.9% +20 bps International Coffee (2) 1,589 0.5% 6.8% 167 32 22.4% 10.5% +190 bps Total Strauss Coffee 1,964 1.1% 6.4% 226 34 17.3% 11.5% +160 bps

















International Dips & Spreads:















Sabra (50%) (2) 339 10.7% 15.0% 34 6 22.4% 10.1% +100 bps Obela (50%) (2) 38 22.6% 22.7% -5 1 NM NM NM Total International Dips & Spreads 377 11.8% 15.7% 29 6 31.3% 7.9% +120 bps

















Strauss Water (2)(3) 285 9.2% 9.1% 27 9 47.5% 9.4% +250 bps

















Other (4) 0 -100.0% NM 1 -5 NM NM NM Total Group 4,270 3.5% 7.1% 461 51 12.7% 10.8% +90 bps

(1) Data represent the Company's non-GAAP figures, which include the proportionate consolidation of jointly controlled businesses (without implementation of IFRS 11) and do not include share-based payment, valuation of the balance of commodity hedging transactions as at end-of-period, including adjustments required for deferral of profit or loss from commodity derivatives until the inventory is sold to external parties, and other income and expenses, net, unless stated otherwise.

(2) Fun & Indulgence figures include Strauss's 50% share in the salty snacks business. International Coffee figures include Strauss's 50% share in the Tres Coracoes joint venture (3C)  Brazil  a company jointly held by the Group (50%) and by the local Sao Miguel Group (50%). International D&S figures reflect Strauss's 50% share in Sabra and Obela. Strauss Water figures include Strauss's share in the joint venture in China, Haier Strauss Water (HSW). Until August 2017 the Company held a 34% stake in the joint venture, and commencing in September 2017, its percentage holding increased to 49% following the acquisition of an additional 15%.

(3) Commencing in the first quarter of 2018, Company Management has elected to report the results of the Strauss Water segment, formerly presented within the Other Operations segment, separately.

(4) In the second quarter of 2017 the Company sold the Max Brenner operation.

Note: Financial data were rounded to NIS millions. Percentages changes were calculated on the basis of the exact figures in NIS thousands. Total figures for International Dips & Spreads were calculated on the basis of the exact figures for Sabra and Obela in NIS thousands.

Appendix Condensed financial accounting (GAAP) Second Quarter

2018 2017 Change Sales 1,348 1,288 4.8% Cost of sales excluding impact of commodity hedges 808 787 2.9% Adjustments for commodity hedges -2 10

Cost of sales 806 797 1.2% Gross profit 542 491 10.4% % of sales 40.2% 38.2%

Selling and marketing expenses 325 309 5.2% General and administrative expenses 103 86 19.0% Total expenses 428 395

Share of profit of equity-accounted investees 76 50 51.7% Operating profit before other expenses 190 146 30.5% % of sales 14.1% 11.3%

Other expenses, net 0 -14

Operating profit after other expenses 190 132 44.9% Financing expenses, net -22 -39 -43.0% Income before taxes on income 168 93 81.4% Taxes on income -46 -10 368.4% Effective tax rate 27.8% 10.8%

Income for the period 122 83 46.7% Attributable to the Company's shareholders 110 73 51.4% Attributable to non-controlling interests 12 10 14.2%









Condensed financial accounting (GAAP) First Half

2018 2017 Change Sales 2,794 2,696 3.7% Cost of sales excluding impact of commodity hedges 1,664 1,618 2.9% Adjustments for commodity hedges -13 19

Cost of sales 1,651 1,637 0.8% Gross profit 1,143 1,059 8.0% % of sales 40.9% 39.3%

Selling and marketing expenses 640 627 2.1% General and administrative expenses 198 179 10.7% Total expenses 838 806

Share of profit of equity-accounted investees 134 94 42.2% Operating profit before other expenses 439 347 26.5% % of sales 15.7% 12.9%

Other expenses, net 2 -7

Operating profit after other expenses 441 340 29.7% Financing expenses, net -38 -68 -44.2% Income before taxes on income 403 272 48.1% Taxes on income -113 -40 183.4% Effective tax rate 28.1% 14.7%

Income for the period 290 232 24.8% Attributable to the Company's shareholders 263 180 46.4% Attributable to non-controlling interests 27 52 -49.3%

Note: Financial data were rounded to NIS millions. Percentages changes were calculated on the basis of the exact figures in NIS thousands.

Investor Conference Calls

Strauss Group will host an Investor Conference call in Hebrew on Tuesday, August 7, 2018 at 14:00 (Israel time) to review the Financial Statements of the Company for the second quarter.

To participate please dial: 03-918-0664

Strauss Group will also host an Investor Conference call in English on Tuesday, August 7, 2018 at 15:00 local Israel time (13:00 UK, 08:00 EST) to review the Financial Statements of the Company for the second quarter.

To participate in the live call (in English) please dial one of the following numbers:

From the UK: 0-800-051-8913

From the US: 1-866-860-9642

From Israel: 03-918-0685

The Financial Statements and Investors Presentation are posted on the Group's Investor Relations website at:

http://ir.strauss-group.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=92539&p=irol-irhome

For further information please contact : Daniella Finn Director of Investor Relations Strauss Group Ltd. 972-54-577-2195 972-3-675-2545 [email protected] Osnat Golan VP Communications, Digital & Sustainability Strauss Group Ltd. 972-52-828-8111 972-3-675-2281 [email protected] Or Shlomi Sheffer External Communications Director Strauss Group Ltd. 972-50-620-8000 972-3-675-6713 [email protected]

SOURCE Strauss Group Ltd.

Related Links

http://ir.strauss-group.com


PEMBROKE PINES, Fla., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- For the third consecutive year, Subaru of Pembroke Pines (SPP) owned and operated by Craig and Martine Zinn, and the Craig Zinn Automotive Group (CZAG), has once again teamed up with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Southern Florida Chapter (LLS) to spread love, hope, and warmth to cancer patients and their families in Broward County communities.

Duane Massa, General Manager at Subaru of Pembroke Pines, along with a team of volunteers and staff from The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Southern Florida visited patients at the Memorial Hospital West Cancer Institute in Pembroke Pines where they hand delivered blankets spreading love, hope, and warmth to patients who are currently battling cancer and their families.

Over the past two years, Subaru Loves to Care, the health-focused initiative of Subaru of America, Inc.'s the Subaru Love Promise philanthropic platform has enabled LLS and Subaru to deliver blankets, messages of hope and arts and crafts kits to 70,000 patients in more than 400 hospitals through 475 Subaru retailers. With the goal of donating more simple comforts to more patients year after year, Subaru and LLS set out to achieve a new record during the 2018 Subaru Loves to Care initiative, which kicked off in June.

Throughout June and July, Subaru of Pembroke Pines and LLS brought the Subaru Loves to Care initiative to life in Southern Florida. Subaru retailer employees and customers had the opportunity to write personalized notes of hope to cancer patients in their local communities, whether by visiting the Dealership or online at www.lls.org/subaru. Those who wrote an inspiring message of hope at the Subaru of Pembroke Pines retailer received a reusable LLS branded tote bag to help spread awareness of the organization's mission and the automaker's goal to provide hope and care, one gesture at a time.

Once the messages were all collected, a crew of volunteer representatives from both Subaru of Pembroke and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Southern Florida Chapter united and visited Memorial Hospital West's Memorial Cancer Institute in Pembroke Pines where they hand delivered blankets spreading love, hope, and warmth to patients who are currently battling cancer and their families. Included with the blanket delivery were "Here to Help" cards from LLS which explain the organization's mission and avenues of support via travel and co-pay assistance. LLS works with patients and caregivers through many support groups and means of financial aid throughout their journey.

"Through Subaru's 'Loves to Care' we were able to invite our employees and customers to join our Dealership in giving back, and together express how much we care about our hometown charity partners and the patients they serve," said Duane Massa, General Sales Manager at Subaru of Pembroke Pines.

These donations were all made possible through the generosity of the Subaru of Pembroke Pines' customers, employees, and the leadership team led by Craig and Martine Zinn, in the hopes of providing patients with relief and warmth  literally and figuratively as they continue their fight against the dreadful disease.

"Our organization is humbled by the support of this extraordinary event. Patients and caregivers receive uplifting messages and comforting blankets to wrap themselves in the support provided by both Subaru of Pembroke Pines Family and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. We are working together to find a cure and provide critical patient care," said DeAnn Hazey, Executive Director for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Southern Florida Chapter.

"We are happy to once again work with our valued community partner, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Southern Florida Chapter. Through the Subaru 'Loves to Care' health-focused initiative we can continue to support patients and their families battling cancer, and together help improve the well-being of our local communities," said Craig Zinn, President, and CEO at the Craig Zinn Automotive Group.

To learn more about the Subaru of Pembroke Pines "Loves to Care" initiative, or any of our other community programs, please visit subaruofpembrokepines.com.

ABOUT SUBARU OF PEMBROKE PINES: At Subaru of Pembroke Pines, we offer a vast variety of Subaru cars, trucks, and SUVs. Our sales team will help you find that new or used Subaru vehicle that you have been searching for. We proudly serve new and used car shoppers from all over the South Florida region. For years, our financial staff at Subaru of Pembroke Pines has offered expert advice for those seeking a loan for a Subaru purchase or lease. Our service doesn't stop there; our customers can trust our knowledgeable Subaru car repair technicians and take advantage of our fully-stocked inventory of Subaru auto parts in our service department. You can reach Subaru of Pembroke Pines by calling us at (888) 821-9697, by filling out the contact form on our website, subaruofpembrokepines.com or simply visiting our dealership located at 16100 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, Florida.

About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society  (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world, provides free information and support services, and is the voice for all blood cancer patients seeking access to quality, affordable, coordinated care.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Rixys Alfonso

[email protected]

Related Images

subaru-of-pembroke-pines-teams-up.jpg

Subaru of Pembroke Pines Teams Up With The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to Spread Love, Hope, and Warmth to Cancer Patients and Their Families

Duane Massa, General Manager at Subaru of Pembroke Pines, along with a team of volunteers and staff from The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Southern Florida visited patients at the Memorial Hospital West Cancer Institute in Pembroke Pines where they hand delivered blankets spreading love, hope, and warmth to patients who are currently battling cancer and their families.

subaru-of-pembroke-pines-teams-up.jpg

Subaru of Pembroke Pines Teams Up With The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to Spread Love, Hope, and Warmth to Cancer Patients and Their Families

Duane Massa, General Manager at Subaru of Pembroke Pines, along with a team of volunteers and staff from The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Southern Florida visited patients at the Memorial Hospital West Cancer Institute in Pembroke Pines where they hand delivered blankets spreading love, hope, and warmth to patients who are currently battling cancer and their families.

subaru-of-pembroke-pines-teams-up.jpg

Subaru of Pembroke Pines Teams Up With The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to Spread Love, Hope, and Warmth to Cancer Patients and Their Families

Duane Massa, General Manager at Subaru of Pembroke Pines, along with a team of volunteers and staff from The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Southern Florida visited patients at the Memorial Hospital West Cancer Institute in Pembroke Pines where they hand delivered blankets spreading love, hope, and warmth to patients who are currently battling cancer and their families.

subaru-of-pembroke-pines-teams-up.jpg

Subaru of Pembroke Pines Teams Up With The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to Spread Love, Hope, and Warmth to Cancer Patients and Their Families

Love is now bigger than ever with the all-new 3-row 7-passenger 2019 Subaru Ascent. Begin your AmaZINN automotive experiences now at Subaru of Pembroke Pines, Florida's #1 Volume Subaru Store! According to Subaru of America 2017.

SOURCE Subaru of Pembroke Pines

Related Links

https://www.subaruofpembrokepines.com


Fuzzy's Taco Shop has grown to 146 restaurants in 19 states with another 19 locations currently in the works, so it's no surprise it ranked #7 on the list of 2018's "Fastest Growing Chains" by Nation's Restaurant News . The fast-casual restaurant serves Baja-style tacos, Tex-Mex favorites and breakfast all day, with many restaurants featuring a patio and bar serving ice-cold schooners of beer and margaritas.

Initial work from Johnson & Sekin will begin in Fall 2018. Overall work will include positioning, branding, promotions, cause marketing, social media and even culinary ideation.

"Fuzzy's Taco Shop has always been a brand that does things a little differently," said Linda Veatch, Vice President of Marketing for Fuzzy's Taco Shop. "The team at Johnson & Sekin is different as well, mixing award-winning strategy and creative, impressive restaurant experience and a true sense of client-agency partnership."

The addition of Fuzzy's Taco Shop continues an impressive year-long winning streak for the agency that includes Chili's Grill & Bar, Dallas Zoo, Baylor University, Local Hive Honey and Boy Scouts of America. Johnson & Sekin was founded in 2009 by Dallas creative veterans Kent Johnson and Chris Sekin, and has been AAF Dallas' most-awarded agency over the last five years. They were named to Ad Age's coveted "Best Places to Work" last year, and were recently recognized by American Advertising Federation, American Marketing Association, Dallas Society of Visual Communications, Luerzer's Archive, Logo Lounge and Texas Monthly.

"We're tremendously excited to be associated with such a hot restaurant concept as Fuzzy's Taco Shop," said Chris Sekin, managing partner and Executive Creative Director of Johnson & Sekin. "Our two brands seem to be perfect for one another, and we look forward to working with the home office and Fuzzy's franchisees around the country."

About Fuzzy's Taco Shop

Founded in 2001 near the TCU campus in Fort Worth, the original Fuzzy's Taco Shop was purchased by Alan and Chuck Bush after just two years of operation "to focus our full attention on promptly and efficiently providing our guests with generous helpings of uniquely flavorful foods at a fair price in a fun atmosphere." Fuzzy's corporate-owned and franchise locations serve fresh, handmade Baja-style Mexican food in 144 stores across 12 states, with many more on the way. Fuzzy's Taco Shop is a member of the International Franchise Association and participates in its VetFran Program, which provides special financial incentives to qualified veterans. For more information, visit www.fuzzystacoshop.com.

About Johnson & Sekin

Creative veterans Kent Johnson and Chris Sekin lead one of Dallas' most awarded and talked-about advertising agencies, with accounts including American Heart Association, Boy Scouts of America, Baylor University, Chili's Grill & Bar, Caliber Collision, Dallas Zoo, Pizza Inn and non-profit Meat Fight among others. For more, visit www.johnsonandsekin.com.

SOURCE Johnson & Sekin

Related Links

http://johnsonandsekin.com


This release should be read with the Company's Financial Statements and Management Discussion & Analysis ("MD&A"), available at www.tasekomines.com and filed on www.sedar.com. Except where otherwise noted, all currency amounts are stated in Canadian dollars. Taseko's 75% owned Gibraltar Mine is located north of the City of Williams Lake in south-central British Columbia. Production volume stated in this release are on a 100% basis unless otherwise indicated.

VANCOUVER, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Taseko Mines Limited (TSX: TKO; NYSE American: TGB) ("Taseko" or the "Company") reports earnings from mining operations before depletion and amortization* of $36.3 million, adjusted EBITDA* of $32.3 million and adjusted net income* of $2.3 million the second quarter of 2018.

Russell Hallbauer, President & CEO commented, "Following six months of lower head grade at Gibraltar, mining operations returned to plan and copper grades increased by approximately 50% in the second quarter, as compared to the previous two quarters. This resulted in copper production of 34 million pounds in the second quarter, much higher than the previous two quarters. Improved metal production was due to the higher copper grade ore and improved copper recovery. Copper recovery improvement was a result of higher grades as well as less oxidation in the ore that was processed. We expect copper grades and recovery to average similar levels for the balance of 2018."

"Our Florence Copper Project continues to advance on time and on budget. Wellfield construction was completed in April and we have recently conducted a number of wellfield tests with very encouraging results that meet or exceed the bench-scale testing used for the 2017 technical report. We expect to begin injecting solutions and pre-leaching the deposit in August at the same time as we are commissioning the SX/EW plant. First cathode is anticipated before the end of December," Mr. Hallbauer added. "Development of our Florence project will come at a critical time as trade tariffs and trade disputes continue among the largest consumers of copper in the world. The USA imports approximately 600,000 metric tonnes of refined copper annually. With limited new copper production capacity expected to come on stream in the USA, Florence is an extremely valuable asset for our Company."

Mr. Hallbauer continued, "Demand for molybdenum remains strong and continues to reflect a tight market. We experienced some recovery issues with our molybdenum circuit in the second quarter which impacted metal production and resulted in reduced by-product credits. The circuit issues have been resolved and we expect molybdenum production to increase for the rest of the year and the important by-product credits to improve accordingly."

"Cash flow in the quarter was impacted by continued spending at our Florence Copper Project as well as a semi-annual bond interest payment. With our current cost structure and spending at Florence on the decline, we anticipate maintaining a solid cash balance in the months ahead. While the copper price has been volatile over the past six weeks, we continue to believe the fundamentals remain strong for copper in the medium to long-term," concluded Mr. Hallbauer.

Second Quarter Highlights

Earnings from mining operations before depletion and amortization* were $36.3 million ;





; Copper and molybdenum production in the second quarter was 33.5 million pounds and 0.5 million pounds, respectively, an increase from previous quarters as a result of the higher head grades and recoveries;





Net loss was $4.7 million ( $0.02 net loss per share) and Adjusted net income* was $2.3 million ( $0.01 per share);





( net loss per share) and Adjusted net income* was ( per share); Site operating costs, net of by-product credits* were US$1.66 per pound produced and Total operating costs (C1)* were US$1.98 per pound produced, as unit costs were positively impacted by the higher grades and production;





per pound produced and Total operating costs (C1)* were per pound produced, as unit costs were positively impacted by the higher grades and production; Total sales (100% basis) for the quarter were 32.2 million pounds of copper and 0.4 million pounds of molybdenum;





Construction of the Production Test Facility ("PTF") for the Florence Copper Project progressed on time and on budget. Construction activities at the site are now nearing completion and the facility is expected to be operational by the end of third quarter, with first copper cathode expected by the end of this year. Capital expenditures in the second quarter were $10.1 million ( US$7.3 million );





( ); Cash flow from operations was $20.3 million and was negatively impacted by a $10.9 million working capital adjustment related to increased accounts receivables and inventories;





and was negatively impacted by a working capital adjustment related to increased accounts receivables and inventories; At June 30, 2018 the Company held put options for 30 million pounds of copper with maturities between July 2018 and December 2018 at a strike price of US$2.80 per pound; and





the Company held put options for 30 million pounds of copper with maturities between and at a strike price of per pound; and The Company's cash balance at June 30, 2018 was $52 million , reduced from $64 million at the end of the previous quarter due in part to cash used for construction of the Florence Copper PTF.

*Non-GAAP performance measure. See end of news release.

HIGHLIGHTS

Financial Data Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, (Cdn$ in thousands, except for per share amounts) 2018 2017 Change 2018 2017 Change Revenues 94,273 99,994 (5,721) 158,452 204,383 (45,931) Earnings from mining operations before depletion and amortization* 36,267 46,460 (10,193) 49,811 99,887 (50,076) Earnings from mining operations 18,312 34,661 (16,349) 17,076 78,511 (61,435) Net income (loss) (4,671) 5,247 (9,918) (23,152) 21,726 (44,878)

Per share - basic ("EPS") (0.02) 0.02 (0.04) (0.10) 0.10 (0.20) Adjusted net income (loss)* 2,337 14,305 (11,968) (8,662) 29,560 (38,222)

Per share - basic ("adjusted EPS")* 0.01 0.06 (0.05) (0.04) 0.13 (0.17) EBITDA* 25,509 43,805 (18,296) 25,879 92,950 (67,071) Adjusted EBITDA* 32,251 42,820 (10,569) 39,788 90,754 (50,966) Cash flows provided by operations 20,349 62,291 (41,942) 31,905 142,056 (110,151)

Operating Data (Gibraltar - 100% basis) Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30,















2018 2017 Change 2018 2017 Change Tons mined (millions) 27.4 21.1 6.3 54.1 42.9 11.2 Tons milled (millions) 7.5 7.5 - 15.0 14.8 0.2 Production (million pounds Cu) 33.5 39.4 (5.9) 56.4 80.6 (24.2) Sales (million pounds Cu) 32.2 40.7 (8.5) 55.0 81.5 (26.5)

*Non-GAAP performance measure. See end of news release.

REVIEW OF OPERATIONS

Gibraltar Mine (75% Owned)











Operating data (100% basis)

Q2 2018 Q1 2018 Q4 2017 Q3 2017 Q2 2017 Tons mined (millions)

27.4 26.7 26.9 23.3 21.1 Tons milled (millions)

7.5 7.5 7.9 7.2 7.5 Strip ratio

1.9 4.1 4.9 4.1 2.8 Site operating cost per ton milled (CAD$)*

$10.31 $8.68 $7.68 $5.93 $7.67 Copper concentrate













Grade (%)

0.263 0.201 0.209 0.284 0.309

Recovery (%)

85.3 75.7 77.5 86.1 85.2

Production (million pounds Cu)

33.5 22.9 25.5 35.1 39.4

Sales (million pounds Cu)

32.2 22.8 32.0 30.2 40.7

Inventory (million pounds Cu)

4.2 2.9 2.7 9.3 4.6 Molybdenum concentrate













Production (thousand pounds Mo)

506 443 537 445 789

Sales (thousand pounds Mo)

424 433 589 403 794 Per unit data (US$ per pound produced)*













Site operating costs*

$1.78 $2.25 $1.86 $0.97 $1.08

By-product credits*

(0.12) (0.23) (0.17) (0.09) (0.11) Site operating costs, net of by-product credits*

$1.66 $2.02 $1.69 $0.88 $0.97 Off-property costs

0.32 0.31 0.42 0.30 0.34 Total operating costs (C1)*

$1.98 $2.33 $2.11 $1.18 $1.31

OPERATIONS ANALYSIS

Second quarter results

Gibraltar mining operations returned to plan during the quarter, following the impact of the 2017 summer wildfires that affected the previous two quarters. Copper production in the second quarter was 33.5 million pounds, approximately 50% higher than the previous two quarters as a result of increased copper grade and recovery. Copper head grade was 0.263%, in line with expectations and consistent with Gibraltar's average reserve grade. Copper recovery also improved to 85.3% for the quarter, a result of the increased head grades and reduced oxidized ore in the mill feed.

A total of 27.4 million tons were mined during the period, an increase over previous quarters as additional trucking capacity was utilized to increase the mining rate. The strip ratio for the second quarter of 1.9 to 1 was lower than recent quarters and 1.9 million tons of mined ore was added to the ore stockpile. Whereas in the previous three quarters the strip ratio was higher and mill feed was drawn from the ore stockpile.

*Non-GAAP performance measure. See end of news release.

OPERATIONS ANALYSIS - CONTINUED

Site operating cost per ton milled* was $10.31 in the second quarter of 2018, which is higher than the first quarter primarily due to the decreased capitalization of stripping costs. Waste stripping costs of $7.7 million (75% basis), or $1.37 per ton milled, were capitalized in the second quarter, compared to $14.7 million ($2.61 per ton milled) in the first quarter of 2018. However, total site spending (including capitalized costs) remained at a similar level to the previous quarter.

Site operating costs per pound produced* decreased to US$1.78 from US$2.25 in the previous quarter, primarily due to higher copper production.

Molybdenum production was 0.5 million pounds in the second quarter which was in line with the previous quarter. Mechanical issues in the molybdenum plant, which have now been resolved, impacted recovery and as a result, molybdenum production did not increase in line with copper production in the period. By-product credits per pound of copper produced* decreased to US$0.12 in the second quarter from US$0.23 in the previous quarter.

Off-property costs per pound produced* were US$0.32 for the second quarter of 2018, which is in line with recent quarters. Total operating costs (C1) per pound* decreased to US$1.98, a 15% decrease from the first quarter of 2018.

GIBRALTAR OUTLOOK

Copper grades are expected to average approximately 0.26% for the remainder of 2018, which is consistent with the life of mine average grade and will result in continued strong production in the second half of the year.

Copper markets have declined since the end of the second quarter, falling from US$3.01 per pound at June 30, 2018 to US$2.78 per pound as of August 7, 2018. Molybdenum prices have strengthened to US$12.30 per pound as of August 7, 2018, compared to US$10.72 per pound at the end of the second quarter.

The Company is progressing with an insurance claim related to the Cariboo region wildfires in July 2017. The amount of the insurance claim has not been finalized and is currently estimated to be in the range of $4 million to $10 million on a 75% basis.

REVIEW OF PROJECTS

Taseko's strategy has been to grow the Company by leveraging cash flow from the Gibraltar Mine to assemble and develop a pipeline of projects. We continue to believe this will generate the best, long-term returns for shareholders. Our development projects are located in British Columbia and Arizona and represent a diverse range of metals, including gold, copper, molybdenum and niobium. Our current focus is on the development of the Florence Copper Project.

*Non-GAAP performance measure. See end of news release.

REVIEW OF PROJECTS - CONTINUED

Florence Copper Project

In September 2017, the Company announced that it was moving forward with the construction of the Production Test Facility ("PTF") for the Florence Copper Project. The SX/EW Plant and the associated wellfield, comprised of 24 production, monitoring, observation and point of compliance wells, will be built for approximately US$25 million. Construction of the PTF progressed smoothly through the second quarter and is now nearing completion.

The project is on time and on budget with expenditures in the first half of 2018 of $24.4 million (US$18.1 million). The facility, plant and wells are expected to be operational at the end of the third quarter of 2018, and first copper production is expected by the end of the year.

Successful operation of the in situ leaching process will allow permits to be amended for the full scale operation of 85 million pounds per year of copper cathode. It is anticipated that by late 2019, construction on the commercial scale operation could be commenced.

Aley Niobium Project

In 2014, the Company filed an NI43-101 technical report for the Aley Niobium Project. Further engineering and metallurgical test work has been completed since then which is expected to result in improved project economics. Environmental monitoring on the project continues and a number of product marketing initiatives are underway. A drill program is underway in the third quarter to collect samples for further metallurgical testing.

The Company will host a telephone conference call and live webcast on Wednesday, August 8, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time (8:00 a.m. Pacific) to discuss these results. After opening remarks by management, there will be a question and answer session open to analysts and investors. The conference call may be accessed by dialing (877) 303-9079 in Canada and the United States, or (970) 315-0461 internationally.

The conference call will be archived for later playback until August 15, 2018 and can be accessed by dialing (855) 859-2056 in Canada and the United States, or (404) 537-3406 internationally and using the passcode 3185058.

Russell Hallbauer

President and CEO

No regulatory authority has approved or disapproved of the information contained in this news release.

NON-GAAP PERFORMANCE MEASURES

This document includes certain non-GAAP performance measures that do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. These measures may differ from those used by, and may not be comparable to such measures as reported by, other issuers. The Company believes that these measures are commonly used by certain investors, in conjunction with conventional IFRS measures, to enhance their understanding of the Company's performance. These measures have been derived from the Company's financial statements and applied on a consistent basis. The following tables below provide a reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable IFRS measure.

Total operating costs and site operating costs, net of by-product credits

Total costs of sales include all costs absorbed into inventory, as well as transportation costs and insurance recoverable. Site operating costs is calculated by removing net changes in inventory, depletion and amortization, insurance recoverable, and transportation costs from cost of sales. Site operating costs, net of by-product credits is calculated by removing by-product credits from the site operating costs. Site operating costs, net of by-product credits per pound are calculated by dividing the aggregate of the applicable costs by copper pounds produced. Total operating costs per pound is the sum of site operating costs, net of by-product credits and off-property costs divided by the copper pounds produced. By-product credits are calculated based on actual sales of molybdenum (net of treatment costs) and silver during the period divided by the total pounds of copper produced during the period. These measures are calculated on a consistent basis for the periods presented.



Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, (Cdn$ in thousands, unless otherwise indicated)  75% basis 2018 2017 2018 2017 Cost of sales 75,961 65,333 141,376 125,872 Less:









Depletion and amortization (17,955) (11,799) (32,735) (21,376)

Insurance recoverable - - 4,000 -

Net change in inventories of finished goods (813) 23 154 256

Net change in inventories of ore stockpiles 5,007 (5,021) 1,111 (3,849)

Transportation costs (4,529) (5,492) (7,358) (10,709) Site operating costs 57,671 43,044 106,548 90,194 Less by-product credits:









Molybdenum, net of treatment costs (3,830) (4,335) (8,839) (10,142)

Silver, excluding amortization of deferred revenue (159) (82) (251) (530) Site operating costs, net of by-product credits 53,682 38,627 97,458 79,522 Total copper produced (thousand pounds) 25,120 29,531 42,265 60,474 Total costs per pound produced 2.14 1.31 2.31 1.31 Average exchange rate for the period (CAD/USD) 1.29 1.34 1.28 1.33 Site operating costs, net of by-product credits (US$ per pound) 1.66 0.97 1.80 0.99 Site operating costs, net of by-product credits 53,682 38,627 97,458 79,522 Add off-property costs:









Treatment and refining costs of copper concentrate 5,938 8,066 9,892 16,522

Transportation costs 4,529 5,492 7,358 10,709 Total operating costs 64,149 52,185 114,708 106,753 Total operating costs (C1) (US$ per pound) 1.98 1.31 2.12 1.32

NON-GAAP PERFORMANCE MEASURES - CONTINUED

Adjusted net income (loss)

Adjusted net income (loss) remove the effect of the following transactions from net income as reported under IFRS:

Unrealized foreign currency gains/losses;

Unrealized gain/loss on copper put options; and

Losses on settlement of long-term debt and copper call option.

Management believes these transactions do not reflect the underlying operating performance of our core mining business and are not necessarily indicative of future operating results. Furthermore, unrealized gains/losses on derivative instruments, changes in the fair value of financial instruments, and unrealized foreign currency gains/losses are not necessarily reflective of the underlying operating results for the reporting periods presented.









Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, ($ in thousands, except per share amounts) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Net income (loss) (4,671) 5,247 (23,152) 21,726

Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss 7,729 (6,249) 16,061 (8,926)

Unrealized (gain) loss on copper put options (987) 373 (2,152) 425

Loss on copper call option - 4,891 - 6,305

Loss on settlement of long-term debt - 13,102 - 13,102

Estimated tax effect of adjustments 266 (3,059) 581 (3,072) Adjusted net income (loss) 2,337 14,305 (8,662) 29,560 Adjusted EPS 0.01 0.06 (0.04) 0.13

EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

EBITDA represents net income before interest, income taxes, and depreciation. EBITDA is presented because it is an important supplemental measure of our performance and is frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties in the evaluation of companies in the industry, many of which present EBITDA when reporting their results. Issuers of "high yield" securities also present EBITDA because investors, analysts and rating agencies consider it useful in measuring the ability of those issuers to meet debt service obligations. The Company believes EBITDA is an appropriate supplemental measure of debt service capacity, because cash expenditures on interest are, by definition, available to pay interest, and tax expense is inversely correlated to interest expense because tax expense goes down as deductible interest expense goes up; depreciation is a non-cash charge.

Adjusted EBITDA is presented as a further supplemental measure of the Company's performance and ability to service debt. Adjusted EBITDA is prepared by adjusting EBITDA to eliminate the impact of a number of items that are not considered indicative of ongoing operating performance.

Adjusted EBITDA is calculated by adding to EBITDA certain items of expense and deducting from EBITDA certain items of income that are not likely to recur or are not indicative of the Company's future operating performance consisting of:

Unrealized foreign exchange gains/losses;

Unrealized gain/loss on copper put options; and

Losses on settlement of long-term debt and copper call option.

NON-GAAP PERFORMANCE MEASURES - CONTINUED

While some of the adjustments are recurring, other non-recurring expenses do not reflect the underlying performance of the Company's core mining business and are not necessarily indicative of future results. Furthermore, unrealized gains/losses on derivative instruments, and unrealized foreign currency translation gains/losses are not necessarily reflective of the underlying operating results for the reporting periods presented.









Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, ($ in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Net income (loss) (4,671) 5,247 (23,152) 21,726 Add:









Depletion and amortization 17,955 11,799 32,735 21,376

Amortization of share-based compensation expense (recovery) 231 170 (608) 3,529

Finance expense 9,733 21,319 19,044 29,353

Finance income (321) (470) (644) (801)

Income tax expense (recovery) 2,582 5,740 (1,496) 17,767 EBITDA 25,509 43,805 25,879 92,950 Adjustments:









Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss 7,729 (6,249) 16,061 (8,926)

Unrealized (gain) loss on copper put options (987) 373 (2,152) 425

Loss on copper call option - 4,891 - 6,305 Adjusted EBITDA 32,251 42,820 39,788 90,754

Earnings from mining operations before depletion and amortization

Earnings from mining operations before depletion and amortization is earnings from mining operations with depletion and amortization added back. The Company discloses this measure, which has been derived from our financial statements and applied on a consistent basis, to provide assistance in understanding the results of the Company's operations and financial position and it is meant to provide further information about the financial results to investors.



Three months ended

June 30, Six months ended

June 30, (Cdn$ in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Earnings from mining operations 18,312 34,661 17,076 78,511 Add:









Depletion and amortization 17,955 11,799 32,735 21,376 Earnings from mining operations before depletion and amortization 36,267 46,460 49,811 99,887

NON-GAAP PERFORMANCE MEASURES - CONTINUED

Site operating costs per ton milled





Three months ended

June 30, Six months ended

June 30, (Cdn$ in thousands, except per ton milled amounts) 2018 2017 2018 2017 Site operating costs (included in cost of sales) 57,671 43,044 106,548 90,194









Tons milled (thousands) (75% basis) 5,592 5,611 11,225 11,100 Site operating costs per ton milled $10.31 $7.67 $9.49 $8.13

CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This document contains "forward-looking statements" that were based on Taseko's expectations, estimates and projections as of the dates as of which those statements were made. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "outlook", "anticipate", "project", "target", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "should" and similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These included but are not limited to:

uncertainties and costs related to the Company's exploration and development activities, such as those associated with continuity of mineralization or determining whether mineral resources or reserves exist on a property;

uncertainties related to the accuracy of our estimates of mineral reserves, mineral resources, production rates and timing of production, future production and future cash and total costs of production and milling;

uncertainties related to feasibility studies that provide estimates of expected or anticipated costs, expenditures and economic returns from a mining project;

uncertainties related to our ability to complete the mill upgrade on time estimated and at the scheduled cost;

uncertainties related to the ability to obtain necessary licenses permits for development projects and project delays due to third party opposition;

uncertainties related to unexpected judicial or regulatory proceedings;

changes in, and the effects of, the laws, regulations and government policies affecting our exploration and development activities and mining operations, particularly laws, regulations and policies;

changes in general economic conditions, the financial markets and in the demand and market price for copper, gold and other minerals and commodities, such as diesel fuel, steel, concrete, electricity and other forms of energy, mining equipment, and fluctuations in exchange rates, particularly with respect to the value of the U.S. dollar and Canadian dollar, and the continued availability of capital and financing;

the effects of forward selling instruments to protect against fluctuations in copper prices and exchange rate movements and the risks of counterparty defaults, and mark to market risk;

the risk of inadequate insurance or inability to obtain insurance to cover mining risks;

the risk of loss of key employees; the risk of changes in accounting policies and methods we use to report our financial condition, including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates;

environmental issues and liabilities associated with mining including processing and stock piling ore; and

labour strikes, work stoppages, or other interruptions to, or difficulties in, the employment of labour in markets in which we operate mines, or environmental hazards, industrial accidents or other events or occurrences, including third party interference that interrupt the production of minerals in our mines.

For further information on Taseko, investors should review the Company's annual Form 40-F filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission www.sec.gov and home jurisdiction filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

This discussion includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this discussion, other than statements of historical facts, that address future production, reserve potential, exploration drilling, exploitation activities, and events or developments that the Company expects are forward-looking statements. Although we believe the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. All of the forward-looking statements made in this MD&A are qualified by these cautionary statements. We disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable law. Further information concerning risks and uncertainties associated with these forward-looking statements and our business may be found in our most recent Form 40-F/Annual Information Form on file with the SEC and Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities.

SOURCE Taseko Mines Limited

Related Links

www.tasekomines.com


ORANGE, Calif., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- With avocado fans clamoring for more and more ways to enjoy their favorite fruit, the makers of the WHOLLY GUACAMOLE brand dips invite Chicago-area avo-lovers to visit Guaclandia, its one-of-a-kind mobile exhibit dedicated to all things avocado, coming to the Evanston Art & Big Fork Festival on Friday, August 17, from 4-7 p.m.; Saturday, August 18, from 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Sunday, August 19, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This photo-ready Instagram-able bus will bring the nation's love for avocado to life through interactive activities, engaging photo ops and unlimited samples of America's No. 1 refrigerated guacamole. Guaclandia will make millennials and avocado lovers' dreams come true, spreading real guac goodness and the brand's "keepin' it real" mentality throughout key cities in the U.S., including Chicago, this summer.

"Guacamole is more than a foodit's a cultural phenomenon," said Diana Pusiri, senior brand manager of the WHOLLY GUACAMOLE brand. "Guaclandia is designed to celebrate guacamole's place in pop culture by providing guac fans with a fun and immersive avocado experience. It's an opportunity to have fun with friends and family while enjoying great tasting guacamole made with real ingredients."

Visitors of Guaclandia will have the chance to take selfies at the pop art-style avocado wall, sit in the "pit" of a giant avocado chair, enjoy inspiring tips on "keepin' it real"just like WHOLLY GUACAMOLE brand foods, and vie for a variety of prizes in a retro, avo-inspired arcade that includes a claw machine featuring avocado pool floats, pins, tote bags, pop sockets, dad hats and other branded swag. Plus, fans will exit Guaclandia by sliding into a jumbo ball pit!

Guaclandia makes its debut as part of the national launch of the company's portable and perfectly portioned WHOLLY GUACAMOLE Snack Cups, a new and convenient way for people to enjoy the WHOLLY GUACAMOLE brand they know and love while on the go. The new offering features its signature guacamole made from hand-scooped Hass avocados conveniently paired with just the right amount of crunchy tortilla chips. Visitors will have an opportunity to sample all three flavor-packed varieties of this great tasting, gluten-free snack  Classic, Spicy and Homestyle.

Guaclandia is free and open to the public, but space is limited, according to Pusiri.

To learn more about WHOLLY GUACAMOLE products and what it means to keep it real, be sure to check out the Guaclandia bus nearest you or visit www.eatwholly.com.

About the WHOLLY GUACAMOLE Brand

The WHOLLY GUACAMOLE brand is a brand of MegaMex Foods, one of the largest manufacturers of pre-prepared Mexican food across the country. A global leader in food safety, quality and innovation, the WHOLLY GUACAMOLE brand uses High Pressure Processing (HPP) to create WHOLLY products. In addition, each product is made with hand-scooped Hass avocados and is gluten free and kosher certified. All WHOLLY GUACAMOLE products are available nationwide in the produce or deli section of grocery stores. For more information, visit www.eatwholly.com.

SOURCE WHOLLY GUACAMOLE

Related Links

http://www.eatwholly.com


CALAIS, Maine, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Due to the needs of an expanding agricultural presence along with other products, including seafood, the Tippmann Innovation consulting team will assess current and long-term needs for growers and processors throughout the region. With growing demand for cold storage throughout the entire US, combined with shrinking refrigerated transport capacity, exacerbated by driver shortages and new hours of service mandates, trucking rates are at record highs. In addition, service geography of carriers is shrinking. Simply put, refrigerated carriers are becoming increasingly selective in choosing lanes and loads. Today, carriers of all types are moving less loads, much more profitably, having negative impacts on shippers of all sizes and types. In many areas of the country, the load to truck ratio is 10 to 1, meaning for every 10 loads there is only 1 truck availablewhich means even higher rates and accessorial charges, and of course, less service.

Tippmann Design Build WDS Facility in Seattle, WA

As such, mid-size shippers have to rethink their 'go-to-market' strategies as conventional wisdom and methods no longer prevail. The Tippmann Innovation consulting team will focus on how to create a logistics market for regional shippers in enabling them to provide their customers with dependable service at reduced costs. Many shippers are considering the use of private or dedicated fleets, that if managed properly, can be a boost to their operating capabilities and customer service performance. In addition, several of the largest food producers are now at the point where they are being forced to increase product prices to cover their increases trucking cost. Nick Pacitti, the Tippmann Innovation consulting lead, and a long time veteran of the food industry, has indicated that the need to create a smaller scale food logistics hub may be the answer in solving the lack of cold storage, 'reefer' carrier availability, and the need for other logistic services. The need for more food hubs is unabated in that America's hunger for locally and regionally grown food is a $10 billion per-year market. The supply side is comprised of 50,000 farmers and ranchers nationwide selling to local retailers. Just as interesting is that 150,000 farmers and ranchers are selling their products directly to consumers. Combined with 38,000 grocery stores and over 200,000 foodservice outlets, the need to shore up regional food distribution is an unrelenting requirement and expectation.

As we have experienced in the past, there is a growing need for 'coopetition' where competitors and peer companies have to collaborate and combine their volumes while sharing services and space that would be available in a regional food hub. The lone ranger strategy for mid-size shippers is transforming into more of a shared concept where regional cold storage facilities can be designed to accommodate similar needs, while shippers can enjoy their own smaller and more flexible space. In addition, the high functionality of these new food hubs will have quick freeze and chill capabilities where cost will become a variable rather than fixed. For seasonal growers and processors this is the difference between profit or loss.

Tippmann Innovation not only designs and builds cold storage food distribution centers, they build businesses. For more information please contact Nick Pacitti at 330-217-8005 or [email protected].

About Tippmann Innovation: Tippmann Innovation is an award winning specialty, industrial cold storage builder that develops buildings around a business plan, ensuring that an investment becomes a profit center. Tippmann Innovation utilizes time-honed expertise and advanced technology solutions to create efficient buildings that scale with a business, and are designed to maximize profitability through fully integrating operations and supply chain, by design. Tippmann Innovation provides a full suite of cold storage construction services, including master site planning and operations guidance. Tippmann Innovation's technologies include the Patented QF+ In-Rack freezing and thawing system, coupled with the T2 spacer that creates the fastest system available. Tippmann Innovation has offices in Indiana, Illinois, and Florida and operates internationally.

www.ticold.com

For more information: Rob Adams, Ti: 260-424-2222

Media inquiries: [email protected]

SOURCE Tippmann Innovation

Related Links

http://www.ticold.com


NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Heads are going to turn W Hotels Worldwide today unveils its latest celebration of global fashion: W HOTELS x GIGI BURRIS  a trio of festive Panama Hats designed as a stylish nod to W Panama City, which opened earlier this year. The collaboration with Burris was born from the W brand's longstanding relationship with the CFDA, an exciting new chapter in the partnership. Burris recently returned from a trip to Panama where she gathered her inspiration through incredible experiences such as time spent with the fabric artisans of the Embera Quera tribe, admiring the spray-painted facades of Casco Viejo and cruising the waterways of the lush Panamanian rainforest. Starting today, three distinct, vibrant styles of Panama Hats will be available exclusively on-site at W Panama and to fashionistas everywhere via W Hotels The Store.

W Hotels Worldwide today unveils its latest celebration of global fashion: W HOTELS x GIGI BURRIS  a trio of festive Panama Hats designed as a stylish nod to W Panama City, which opened earlier this year.

"I've always found that traveling  and experiencing people, cuisines and cultures first hand  has brought inspiration to my work," said Gigi Burris. "These hats are a testament to the beauty of Panama and its synonymous silhouette that has become an icon of the accessory world. My diverse experiences exploring Panama City have brought to life these three distinct and unique spins on this classic look."

Some quick fashion history: The Panama hat did not actually originate in Panama. It was conceived in Ecuador before being popularized by Americans, most famously Theodore Roosevelt, who wore one on a state trip to Panama City. Today, however, Panama hats can be found in shops on cozy cobblestone streets of Casco Viejo and across the country.

W HOTELS X GIGI BURRIS adds to this tradition, with three designs that celebrate elements of Panama City through hand-blocked, naturally woven straw looks:

Canal ( $395 USD )  This flat-brimmed fedora is trimmed with papaya cotton grosgrain and papaya-hued paint treatment, reminiscent of the city's spray-painted facades along the canal route.





( )  This flat-brimmed fedora is trimmed with papaya cotton grosgrain and papaya-hued paint treatment, reminiscent of the city's spray-painted facades along the canal route. Quera ( $495 USD )  A straw-based design with a less traditional look, forming a heart-shaped crown with a wide flat brim. The nearly-neon, patterned fabric is sourced from Panama's Embera Quera tribe and is chicly draped across the hat in a relaxed bandana style. The fabric is dyed by hand with colors that are created from naturally occurring pigments found in the Panamanian rainforest.





( )  A straw-based design with a less traditional look, forming a heart-shaped crown with a wide flat brim. The nearly-neon, patterned fabric is sourced from Embera Quera tribe and is chicly draped across the hat in a relaxed bandana style. The fabric is dyed by hand with colors that are created from naturally occurring pigments found in the Panamanian rainforest. Mangrove ( $395 USD )  This center-striped style has a relaxed short brim, trimmed with cream cotton grosgrain and neon, peacock feather work. Panama is home to iconic Spanish colonial architecture speckled with greenery and fresh blue skies  a view that is shadowed in this vintage meets modern look. The array of greens accenting the safari-style hat uses bright colors that are abundant in Panama's acres and acres of rainforest.

"Fashion is one of our passions in part because of its ability to tell stories and connect people around the world," said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. "When we set out to create a new hotel, we draw inspiration from the people and culture of the destination  much the same way designers like Gigi Burris find destinations to be their muse. Our guests love fashion as much as we do, and this is our latest way to give them a stylish souvenir inspired by their travels. Gigi has created three beautiful pieces that truly capture the spirit and magic of Panama City."

W Panama, the brand's first Central American property, opened in March 2018 in the heart of Panama City's business district. Located in the 50-floor Evolution Tower, the bold and vibrant design of the 203-room hotel blends centuries of history and culture with the nearby tropical paradise and trendy metropolitan spirit of the destination. Designed by Studio Gaia and the award-winning internal design team of W Hotels, W Panama reconstructs the city's past and present with distinct hues and textural contrasts inspired by the international importance of the Panama Canal, while integrating Panama's history and colorful indigenous patterns. The hotel is near Uruguay Street, known as the "Zona Rosa" of Panama, home to a bustling scene of trendy restaurants and nightclubs.

W believes fashion is an integral part of the travel experience and has made it a central passion since the brand's beginnings. Designer collaborations over the years have included Creatures of the Wind, Diane von Furstenberg and the brand's multi-year partnership with the CFDA {FASHION INCUBATOR} program in which designers such as Misha Nonoo and Isa Tapia have drawn inspiration from W destinations around the globe. The brand was also the first to appoint a Global Fashion Director in 2010 and, in 2016 appointed super model and actress Joan Smalls as its Global Fashion Innovator who created destination guides for W guests to experience local fashion first hand.

To learn more about the future of travel and fashion visit www.whotels.theangle.com. To shop the W HOTELS X GIGI BURRIS collection visit W Hotels The Store.

About W Hotels Worldwide

Born from the bold attitude and 24/7 culture of New York City, W Hotels, part of Marriott International, Inc., has disrupted and redefined the hospitality scene for nearly two decades. Trailblazing its way around the globe, with more than 50 hotels, W Hotels defies expectations and breaks the norms of traditional luxury wherever the iconic W sign lands. With a mission to fuel guests' lust for life, W ignites an obsessive desire to soak it in, live it up and hit repeat. The brand's provocative design, iconic Whatever/Whenever service and buzzing Living Rooms create an experience that is often copied but never matched. Innovative, inspiring and infectious, the brand's super-charged energy celebrates guests' endless appetite to discover what's new/next in each destination, to see more, feel more, go longer, stay later. W Hotels Worldwide is proud to participate in the industry's award-winning loyalty program, Starwood Preferred Guest. Members can now link accounts with Marriott Rewards, which includes The Ritz-Carlton Rewards at members.marriott.com for instant elite status matching and unlimited points transfer. For more information on W Hotels, visit whotels.com/theangle or follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.
DENVER, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Mushroom fermentation is quickly becoming a popular buzzword in the food industry. In the past five years, mushroom fermentation has exploded onto the scene, helping to solve some of the biggest challenges in the food and beverage industry. Mushrooms have already proven to be a powerful tool in the fight against sugar, helping companies reduce or even aid in eliminating sugar completely from their products. Mushroom fermentation is also demonstrating an important role in feeding an exponentially growing population with a sustainable and high-quality protein source.

Colorado based company, MycoTechnology, is pioneering the field of mushroom fermentation and has attracted over $50M in venture funds from some of the top food companies around the world. According to Alan Hahn, CEO and Co-Founder of MycoTechnology, "We are still just scratching the surface on what is possible from mushroom fermentation. We have a pipeline of R&D projects that will continue to transform the food industry for the better."

Top industry executives are recognizing MycoTechnology as the solution the food industry has been searching for. Doug Tough, former CEO and Chairman of International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF), and Robert Case, former CMO of Nestle, both joined the board this month and are excited to be part of the groundbreaking projects MycoTechnology is working on.

"MycoTechnology is not just creating products for the sake of creating products, they are out here developing products that will transform the world. When MycoTech asked me to join the board I knew I wanted to be a part of something that would make a lasting impact on society" explains Doug Tough.

Rob Case notes that "Companies like MycoTechnology do not come around often. They are focused on tackling the biggest issues head on and changing the landscape of the food ingredient industry one product at a time."

In the past 10 years there has been a shift in the food industry to increase the availability of healthy, high quality, and sustainable food options. This shift is a major departure from previous thinking where cost and availability were the major drivers. Now the food industry is looking for innovative solutions to bring healthy and sustainable foods that don't compromise on taste, and MycoTechnology is delivering in a big way.

MycoTechnology, founded in 2012, is a rapidly growing, innovative, and environmentally conscious food ingredient company. Their product portfolio features ClearTaste, the world's first organic bitter blocker, and PureTaste, the next generation of plant protein. For more information visit www.mycotechcorp.com.

Contact:

Jessie Booth, Marketing Communications Specialist

[email protected]

SOURCE MycoTechnology

Related Links

http://www.mycotechcorp.com


NORTH READING, Mass., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- TraceLink Inc ., the World's Largest Track and Trace Network for connecting the life sciences supply chain and providing real-time information sharing for better patient outcomes, announced today that it has joined the Irish Medicines Verification Organization (IMVO) serialization pilot study and will support a number of hospitals, pharmacies and clinics connect to the Irish Medicines Verification System (IMVS).

TraceLink has passed IMVO's self-certification tests which confirm that its pharmacy system connects correctly to the IMVS. TraceLink will support 16 pharmacies and clinics across Ireland during the pilot, which aims to gather critical data and end user insights into the day-to-day operation of a serialization service for compliance with the EU Falsified Medicines Directive (FMD). As part of the pilot, the 15 pharmacies and one private clinic will use TraceLink's Android or iOS-based pharmacy applications and a Bluetooth scanner to scan medicine barcodes and verify them against the IMVS.

"The IMVO is a new organization set up to protect patients in Ireland from the dangerous threat of falsified medicines being supplied through legitimate channels. It is beneficial for us to be connected to the TraceLink network in order to have the ability to easily scan the new 2D codes on medicine packaging and ultimately ensure patient safety in our hospital," said Catherine Kelly, Chief Pharmacist, UPMC Whitfield, the largest private hospital in the southeast, serving a half million people in the region. UPMC, a leading academic medical center based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, acquired the hospital in May, where it already operated an advanced radiation therapy center that has treated more than 17,000 patients since opening in 2006.

Purpose-built for flexible integration into any pharmacy workflow, TraceLink's pharmacy application can be accessed through a smartphone, tablet, or a set of APIs. These APIs can integrate with all capable pharmacy management systems, enabling any pharmacy, clinic or hospital in Ireland to easily comply with verification and decommissioning requirements under the FMD. All equipment is provided by TraceLink for the duration of the pilot. TraceLink is fully connected with SolidSoft, the blueprint provider for the IMVO.

"Serialization pilots at the medicine decommissioning level will help us and our pharmacy partners to understand user adoption and where further training is needed, while also determining best practices for compliance in real-world scenarios. We are extremely pleased to be involved in initiatives like this as we strive for a better connected and safer pharmaceutical supply chain," said Shabbir Dahod, president and CEO, TraceLink. "The FMD is a significant turning point for the European healthcare industry to create a safer supply chain for the benefits of patients everywhere."

In order to comply with the EU FMD, which aims to reduce counterfeiting in the pharmaceutical supply chain, pharmacies and clinics in Europe must introduce new processes. Under the regulation, pharmacists and healthcare providers must adopt the end-to-end verification system, which means they must scan and verify the authenticity of drug products against National Medicines Verification Systems (NMVS) before the medicine can be dispensed to patients. Ireland is one of the first countries to have an operational serialization service in place ahead of the FMD deadline in February 2019.

As part of EU FMD, all NMVS systems are required to connect into the EU Hub. Pharmaceutical manufacturers with EU FMD requirements are required to upload serialization data to the EU Hub, which is then distributed to the appropriate NMVS for medicine verification. TraceLink has developed a streamlined program for its more than 190 manufacturing customers with EU FMD requirements to rapidly complete conformance testing and successfully receive European Medicines Verification Organization (EMVO) approval to submit data to the EU Hub. With TraceLink's conformance test kit, 42 companies have been able to complete their conformance testing, with 21 having already received EMVO approval.

About TraceLink

TraceLink is the World's Largest Track and Trace Network for connecting the Life Sciences supply chain and eliminating counterfeit prescription drugs from the global marketplace. Leading businesses trust the TraceLink Life Sciences Cloud to deliver complete global connectivity, visibility and traceability of pharmaceuticals from ingredient to patient. A single point and click connection to the Life Sciences Cloud creates a supply chain control tower that delivers the information, insight and collaboration needed to improve performance and reduce risk across global supply, manufacturing and distribution operations. A winner of numerous industry awards including Deloitte's Technology Fast 500 (ranked number 149 in 2016), the Amazon AWS Global Start-Up Challenge Grand Prize, and the Edison Award for Innovation in Data Security, the Life Sciences Cloud is used by businesses across the globe to meet strategic goals in ensuring global compliance, fighting drug counterfeiting, improving on-time and in-full delivery, protecting product quality and reducing operational cost. For more information on TraceLink and our solutions, visit www.tracelink.com or follow us on LinkedIn , Twitter and Facebook .

TraceLink is funded by Goldman Sachs , FirstMark Capital , Volition Capital and F-Prime Capital .

SOURCE TraceLink

Related Links

http://www.tracelink.com


DALLAS, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- "Undocumented" is being released at an exclusive event hosted by Libby and David Hunt in honor of friend, Dallas-native and director Justin Malone. The private screening will be followed by a Q&A session with Hunt, podcast host of Libby's Movie Hunt, and Malone.

The film, originally shot and edited by Malone and produced by Robert Curlin in 2008, is an eye-opening look past media half-truth to all sides of illegal immigration, the biggest cultural challenge facing America today.

"Undocumented" is an eye-opening film that looks past media half-truths to all sides of illegal immigration, the biggest cultural challenge facing America today. The film was shot and edited by Dallas-native and director Justin Malone and produced by Robert Curlin. Malone traveled to over 24 U.S. cities and Guatemala and compiled nearly 320 hours of interviews, protest rallies and heated exchanges from multiple perspectives. Director Justin Malone and team interview an immigrant across U.S.-Mexico border wall. A young brother and sister walk along the border in Juarez, Mexico.

Hunt was unaware of the film's existence until she viewed it last month. "I have known Justin for many years and could not believe he was sitting on this amazing, untold story," said Hunt. "This film is more relevant than ever given the debate in our country, so I immediately encouraged Justin to resurrect it for a wider audience."

At the age of 25, Malone traveled to over 24 U.S. cities and Guatemala; compiling nearly 320 hours of interviews, protest rallies and heated exchanges from multiple perspectives. "Looking back at my younger self, I was not prepared for the physical, emotional and psychological impact the filming would have on me," said Malone. "I am amazed at how much I am still learning from this film today."

"Undocumented" first screened at the USA Film Festival and rose to local popularity, but distributors felt its political stance was "too neutral" despite its powerful voice. The message was clear - Americans weren't ready for this cultural phenomenon.

Fast forward to 2018, a time of divisiveness amidst Trump's immigration stance and the upcoming mid-term elections. "Frankly, I am shocked that 'Undocumented' is more relevant now than the original filming," said Malone. "It was a prediction of where we'd be today."

The Hunts and Malone are thrilled to share "Undocumented" with the world, beginning with their Dallas community.

The private screening will take place at Highland Park Village Theatre on August 16th at 7:00pm. For the film trailer, visit www.undocumentedfilm.com. For media inquiries and press tickets, contact Caroline Johnson at [email protected].

Contact: Caroline Johnson, CJ Strategies

Phone: 214-478-2190

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Justin Malone
| BY Ricki Green |

Clemenger BBDO Sydney chief executive Andy Pontin today announced that Googler Brendan Bob Forster would be joining the agency as head of creative technology.

Says Pontin: Bob has an intimate knowledge of digital platforms, unrivalled relationships and a gigantic creative mind. Were delighted to be welcoming Bob to the agency side of things. We have been one of the most digitally awarded agencies in Australia over the last year, and we look forward to turbo-charging that success with Bob.

Forster has worked for Google for 8 years, most recently as creative agency specialist and will cross the floor from tech company to creative agency in October.

Says Paul Nagy, executive creative director at Clemenger BBDO Sydney: I cant wait for Google Bob to join. In fact, well keep calling him Google Bob. Hell be riding shotgun with both the creative directors and the digital production department to make sure that technology is baked into the heart of what we do.
CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- A United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta IV Heavy rocket is in final preparations to launch NASA's Parker Solar Probe from Space Launch Complex-37 on Aug. 11. NASA selected ULA's Delta IV Heavy for its unique ability to deliver the necessary energy to begin the Parker Solar Probe's journey to the sun. After launch, the spacecraft will orbit directly through the solar atmosphere  the corona  closer to the surface than any human-made object has ever gone.

"ULA is honored to launch the one-of-a-kind Parker Solar Probe," said Tory Bruno, ULA president and CEO. "Only the Delta IV Heavy possesses the capability to deliver this unique mission to orbit, and we are proud to provide unmatched launch services to our NASA mission partners."

The Delta IV Heavy is the nation's proven heavy lifter, delivering high-priority missions for the U.S. Air Force, National Reconnaissance Office and NASA. With its advanced upper stage, Delta IV Heavy can take more than 14,500 pounds directly to geosynchronous orbit, as well as a wide variety of complex interplanetary trajectories.

This Delta IV Heavy is comprised of three common core boosters each powered by an Aerojet Rocketdyne (AR) RS-68A liquid hydrogen/liquid oxygen engine, producing a combined total of more than 2.1 million pounds of thrust. The second stage is powered by an AR RL10B-2 liquid hydrogen/liquid oxygen engine. Due to the extremely high energy required for this mission, the Delta IV Heavy's capability will be augmented by a powerful third stage provided by Northrop Grumman.

This will be the 37th launch of the Delta IV rocket, and the 10th in the Heavy configuration. To date ULA has a track record of 100 percent mission success with 128 successful launches.

With more than a century of combined heritage, United Launch Alliance is the nation's most experienced and reliable launch service provider. ULA has successfully delivered more than 125 satellites to orbit that aid meteorologists in tracking severe weather, unlock the mysteries of our solar system, provide critical capabilities for troops in the field and enable personal device-based GPS navigation.

For more information on ULA, visit the ULA website at www.ulalaunch.com, or call the ULA Launch Hotline at 1-877-ULA-4321 (852-4321). Join the conversation at www.facebook.com/ulalaunch, twitter.com/ulalaunch and instagram.com/ulalaunch.

SOURCE United Launch Alliance

Related Links

http://www.ulalaunch.com


OAKLAND, Calif., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- United States Commodity Funds LLC (USCF), a sponsor of exchange-traded products, plans to close and liquidate three of its exchange-traded products. On August 7, 2018, the Board of Directors of the Company authorized and approved the closing and liquidation each of the following funds (the Funds) together with a plan of liquidation for each Fund:

United States Agriculture Index Fund (USAG)

United States Short Oil Fund, LP (DNO)

United States Diesel-Heating Oil Fund, LP (UHN)

As of the close of regular trading on the NYSE Arca, Inc. (NYSE Arca) on September 6, 2018, the Funds will no longer accept orders for Creation Baskets or Redemption Baskets (as such terms are defined in the applicable Fund's prospectus) from authorized participants. Trading in the shares of the Funds on the NYSE Arca, will be suspended prior to the open of market on September 7, 2018 and beginning on that date, there can be no assurance that there will be a secondary market for the shares. Shareholders may sell their holdings before September 7, 2018 and customary brokerage charges may apply to such transactions.

On or about September 6, 2018, the Funds will begin the process of liquidating their respective portfolios. As a result, the Funds' cash holdings will increase, and the Funds will no longer be managed in accordance with their investment objectives.

The liquidation date for all the Funds will be September 12, 2018 and the proceeds of the liquidation are scheduled to be sent to shareholders of the Funds on or about September 13, 2018.

These distributions to shareholders will be treated as liquidating distributions for U.S. federal income tax purposes and shareholders are encouraged to consult their own tax advisors concerning the impact of the liquidation of the Funds in light of their own unique circumstances.

Notice is being given to the limited partners of each of United States Short Oil Fund, LP (DNO) and United States Diesel-Heating Oil Fund, LP (UHN) (as such term is defined under each fund's respective Third Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership dated as of December 15, 2017) that effective as of 5:00 p.m. (prevailing Eastern Time) on September 13, 2018, each of the limited partners shall withdraw entirely from DNO and UHN, respectively, without further action. The effect of the withdrawal of all the limited partners of each of DNO and UHN will be dissolution of those funds.

For more information, please call 1-800-920-0259 or visit www.uscfinvestments.com.

About USCF

USCF operates on the leading edge of exchange-traded product (ETP) and exchange-traded fund (ETF) innovation. The firm broke new ground with the launch of the first oil ETP, the United States Oil Fund, LP (USO), in 2006. Over the next decade, USCF designed and issued fifteen more ETPs and ETFS, as well as a mutual fund, across commodity and equity asset classes. USCF currently manages over $3 billion in assets from its headquarters in Oakland, California.

Katie Rooney is a registered representative of ALPS Distributors, Inc.

Commodity trading is highly speculative and involves a high degree of risk. Commodities and futures generally are volatile and are not suitable for all investors. An investor may lose all or substantially all of an investment. Investing in commodity interests subject each Fund to the risks of its related industry. These risks could result in large fluctuations in the price of a particular Fund's respective shares. Funds that focus on a single sector generally experience greater volatility.

Funds distributed by ALPS Distributors, Inc.

SOURCE USCF

Related Links

http://www.uscfinvestments.com


HARLINGEN, Texas, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) School of Medicine is expanding its footprint across the entire Rio Grande Valley at a fast pace. Part of that expansion now includes the Institute for Neurosciences that will to be built adjacent to their existing campus in Harlingen, Texas.

Neuroscience is a growing and dynamic field that deals with the health and well-being of the brain and nervous system. The new 60,000-square-foot Institute for Neurosciences will house research, clinical and administrative functions and will bring many new opportunities to Harlingen.

"It's really exciting to develop the Neuroscience Institute," says Sofia Hernandez, Chief of Staff of the UTRGV School of Medicine. "It means new talent, amazing scientists and cutting-edge research to better understand disease and new treatments. The Institute will also bring an important economic benefit to the community."

Harlingen is already home to the School of Medicine's Clinical Education building, the Graduate Medical Education office, and a Smart Hospital, a 15,000-square-foot, 20-bed simulation hospital that provides an opportunity for students to do hands-on training. The Smart Hospital features a fully equipped operating room and ICU unit.

"Healthcare and medical development are a very important target industry for Harlingen," says Raudel Garza, CEO of the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (HEDC). "This industry creates new opportunities and higher paying jobs that are key to improving the quality of life here in Harlingen."

The expansion of the UTRGV School of Medicine has been dramatic since the 2016 opening, and communities across the Rio Grande Valley are getting involved. First- and second-year students attend classes at the Education Building in Edinburg. Third- and fourth-year students are at the Clinical Education building in Harlingen, with third year students doing clinical rotations at area clinics and hospitals.

"Having a distributed model is a huge plus," says Hernandez. "It really allows us to deliver the education program's clinical care in a thoughtful way across the entire region."

Hernandez recently joined Garza and Kayla Thomas, HEDC Commercial Development and Marketing Manager, as a special guest on the most recent episode of The Big Opportunity podcast series. Hernandez shared other exclusive details about the growth and direction of the Rio Grande Valley's new medical school.

For additional exclusive details about the growth and direction of the Rio Grande Valley's new medical school, listen to the full podcast or read the full transcript at www.HarlingenEDC.com. You can also find the show on iTunes, Google Play and Stitcher. For more information, contact the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation at 956-216-5081 or visit the UTRGV School of Medicine website at UTHealthRGV.org.

SOURCE Harlingen Economic Development Corporation

Related Links

http://www.harlingenedc.com


ISNES, Belgium, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- VolitionRx Limited (NYSE American: VNRX) today announced it will host a conference call on Tuesday, August 14 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern time to discuss its financial and operating results from the second quarter of 2018, in conjunction with the filing of its quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the second quarter ended June 30, 2018.

Event: VolitionRx Limited Second Quarter 2018 Earnings and Business Update Conference Call

Date: Tuesday, August 14, 2018

Time: 8:30 a.m. Eastern time

U.S. & Canada Dial-in: 1-877-407-9716 (toll free)

U.K. Dial-in: 0 800 756 3429 (toll free)

Toll/International: 1-201-493-6779

Conference ID: 13682285

Cameron Reynolds, President and Chief Executive Officer of Volition, will host the call along with David Vanston, Chief Financial Officer and Scott Powell, Executive Vice President. The call will provide an update on recent developments and Volition's international activities, including details of new and ongoing clinical trials, important events which have taken place in this quarter, and milestones for 2018 and beyond.

A live audio webcast of the conference call will also be available on the investor relations page of Volition's corporate website at http://ir.volitionrx.com. In addition, a telephone replay of the call will be available until August 28, 2018. The replay dial-in numbers are 1-844-512-2921 (toll-free) in the U.S. and Canada and 1-412-317-6671 (toll) internationally. Please use replay pin number 13682285.

About Volition

Volition is a multi-national life sciences company focused on developing simple, easy to use, cost effective blood tests designed to help diagnose a range of cancers. The tests are based on the technology platform of Nucleosomics, which is the practice of identifying and measuring nucleosomes in the bloodstream or other bodily fluid - an indication that disease is present.

As cancer screening programs become more widespread, Volition's products aim to help to diagnose a range of cancers quickly, simply, accurately and cost effectively. Early diagnosis has the potential to not only prolong the life of patients, but also to improve their quality of life. Volition's research and development activities are currently centered in Belgium, with additional offices in London, Texas and Singapore, as the company focuses on bringing its diagnostic products to market first in Europe, then in the U.S. and ultimately, worldwide.

Nucleosomics is a trademark of VolitionRx Limited and its subsidiaries.

For more information about Volition, visit Volition's website https://volitionrx.com/ or connect with us via:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/volitionrx

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/volitionrx

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VolitionRx/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/VolitionRx

The contents found at Volition's website address, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube are not incorporated by reference into this document and should not be considered part of this document. The addresses for Volition's website, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube are included in this document as inactive textual references only.

SOURCE VolitionRx Ltd
JAMESTOWN, Va., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Virginia's 2019 Commemoration, American Evolution and WHRO announced the launch of "Our American Story" student contest. Designed to foster creativity, cooperative learning, critical examination and discussion among our country's next generation of leaders, students in grades 8 through 12 are encouraged to submit entries that respond to one of three video prompts and explore 2019 Commemoration themes of Democracy, Diversity and Opportunity.

"Our American Story inspires students to learn about, and establish a modern connection to, formative 1619 Virginia events that indelibly influenced and continue to shape today's America," said Kathy Spangler, Executive Director of the 2019 Commemoration, American Evolution. "As the next generation of leaders, it is imperative that students establish a personal connection to the impact that today's actions can exert on our country's ideals of Democracy, Diversity and Opportunity."

Working in teams, students will develop and submit entries in a variety of formats including theatrical interpretations, musical performances, dance pieces, fiction or non-fiction videos, documentaries, visual arts, performance art, animation, spoken word, multi-media projects, podcasts and social media campaigns. Submissions will be judged on content quality, creativity, and technical quality. The contest opens on August 7, 2018 and closes on November 30, 2018. Visit www.americanevolution2019.com/education/ouramericanstory/ to view full entry details.

A grand prize of $5,000 will be awarded to the winning team's affiliated school or association, and 10 iPad minis will be distributed to members of the winning student team. In addition, prizes will be awarded in each of the three category themes  Democracy, Diversity, and Opportunity. Category theme winners will receive $2,000 for their affiliated school or association and $50 Amazon gift cards will be awarded to student team members. Finally, a prize will be awarded to the project that is selected as the audience favorite.

WHRO is available to conduct Our American Story presentations to schools. All participating schools will receive curriculum, lesson plans and toolkits for 8th- 12th grades on the themes of Democracy, Diversity, and Opportunity. To schedule an in-person presentation for your school, contact 2019 Project Manager Kathy Martin at 757-889-9443 or [email protected].

The Our American Story contest is inspired by formative events that occurred in 1619 Virginia. These 1619 events include the First Representative Legislative Assembly in the New World, the arrival of the first recorded Africans to English North America, the recruitment of English women in significant numbers to the Virginia colony, the first official English Thanksgiving in North America and the entrepreneurial and innovative spirit of the Virginia colony.

About the 2019 Commemoration

The 2019 Commemoration, American Evolution, highlights events that occurred in Virginia in 1619 that continue to influence America today. Featured programs, events and legacy projects will position Virginia as a leader in education, tourism and economic development. American Evolution commemorates the ongoing journey toward the key ideals of democracy, diversity and opportunity. Dominion Resources is an American Evolution Founding Partner and Altria Group and TowneBank are Virginia Colony Partners.

SOURCE American Evolution

Related Links

http://www.americanevolution2019.com


ATLANTA and EWING, N.J., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- ACG Solutions (ACG), and Critical Response Group, Inc. (CRG) today announced the two companies have formed a strategic business relationship that will significantly enhance the first responder accuracy benefits of ACG's Synchronized Orchestrated Response (SOR), a combination of networked, integrated technologies designed to save lives, protect property and reduce liability exposure.

Demo Product

CRG's geospatially accurate graphics, known as Collaborative Response Graphics, transform written and text-based emergency operations plans into a gridded, floor-by-floor overlay of high resolution imagery that first responders can access via their smart devices or computers. As a result, first responder teams can instantly visualize their physical location on the actual building plan in real time. The graphic display offers everything users need to know to coordinate emergency response inside and outside of a structure, including room labels, hallway names, external door/stairwell numbers, and key utility locations. The solution also provides a common operating picture and language for all responding emergency agencies and field commanders.

"With the rise in active shooter incidents, private- and public-sector organizations need to have confidence they can offer first responders all the critical information necessary to identify, pinpoint and mitigate a threat within their structure or campus as fast as possible," Laura Faught, President and Chief Operations Officer, ACG Solutions. "CRG's Collaborative Response Graphics break through traditional, 'static' plans to accomplish that."

Strong Public Sector Endorsements and Adoption

CRG's Collaborative Response Graphics are in use in more than 300 schools, as well as multiple commercial buildings and transportation hubs throughout the United States. In addition, police chief's associations from Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Indiana have recognized the use of CRG's products as a best practice when it comes to planning for and responding to active threat incidents.

According to Phil Coyne, President of CRG, the company's aim is to revolutionize first responder planning and responses during emergency situations. "Taken as a whole, our endorsements reflect a fundamental market need for powerful, new generation emergency response tools," said Coyne. "We are pleased that ACG has selected our visual communication and collaboration tools to fulfill a vision of offering a holistic, one-stop framework to help organizations overcome the complex challenge of coordinating an emergency response involving first responders from multiple agencies operating and communicating in an unfamiliar location."

About SOR



SOR encompasses surveillance, gunshot and motion detection technologies, access controls and cameras, lock down procedures and more, to help prevent injuries and loss of life while keeping structural damage to a minimum. Offered under a framework of interoperable technology, policy and process, components of SOR can be sold individually or bundled to meet each customer's specific needs. The moment SOR detects a threat, the lockdown protocol is activated, and authorities are notified with real-time actionable information that pinpoints the location of the threat, enabling the authorities to deploy resources to rapidly eliminate it.

For more information about SOR, or to request a consultation with one of ACG's technology architects, visit: https://acg-solutions.com/contact-us/

About ACG Solutions

ACG Solutions serves all industries with a complete portfolio of information technology, security and telecommunications solutions for powering the intelligent building.

For more information, please visit www.acg-solutions.com.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ACGIntelligentSolutions/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acgsolutions/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ACGSolution

About Critical Response Group, Inc.

Formed in 2016 and formerly the Geospatial Intelligence Division of The Rodgers Group, LLC, Critical Response Group is a team of dedicated, experienced and proven professionals from the U.S. Military Special Operations and domestic public safety communities. Members of our team have served as Police Chiefs, SWAT team commanders, Fire Chiefs, Emergency Management Coordinators, Fusion Center Directors and former members of the U.S. Military Special Operations Command who have served on numerous tours in combat. They have a proven record of success operating in environments ranging from the war on terror overseas to man-made and natural disasters here at home. For Further Information, Contact our office at: 732.779.4393 or www.crgplans.com.

SOURCE Critical Response Group

Related Links

http://www.crgplans.com/


BOSTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Analysis Group, one of the largest economics consulting firms, worked with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Covington & Burling LLP on their lawsuit challenging the Milwaukee Police Department's stop-and-frisk program on the grounds that it violated residents' rights under the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments to the US Constitution. The case (Collins, et al. v. City of Milwaukee, et al.) was settled after a year and a half of litigation, leading to changes in how Milwaukee police conduct, document, supervise, and monitor stops and frisks moving forward.

In the litigation, expert reports were submitted by Analysis Group affiliate and University of Pennsylvania Professor David Abrams and criminal justice consultant Margo Frasier. Professor Abrams assessed the degree to which race and ethnicity motivate motor vehicle and pedestrian stops, as well as searches conducted during those stops. Ms. Frasier assessed whether motor vehicle and pedestrian stops were appropriately documented and legally justified. An Analysis Group team including Vice President Shannon Seitz and Associates Rebecca Scott and Nick Vigil supported both in developing their reports.

"The challenge in this case was how to fully utilize complex and varied datasets to either prove or disprove a pervasive bias. After analyzing years of census data, police reports, and driving records, a clear picture emerged," said Professor Abrams. "The data showed that, even after controlling for factors other than race and ethnicity, black people in Milwaukee were significantly more likely to be subjected to traffic and pedestrian stops and to be searched after being subjected to a traffic stop, even though it was highly unlikely that these stops and searches would result in the discovery of drugs or weapons."

The data revealed several things.

Black drivers were stopped at more than six times the rate of white drivers, and black pedestrians are stopped at a rate 500 percent higher than that of white pedestrians. These differences reflect the inclusion of control variables for the crime rate, demographic composition, and overall differences in location and time.

Officers were more likely to exercise leniency toward white drivers than toward black or Latino drivers in issuing speeding tickets. In particular, black and Latino drivers are, respectively, 12% and 16% less likely than white drivers to be cited at a speed just below a threshold that would result in a higher penalty.

Ms. Frasier's study concluded that, in a majority of documented traffic and pedestrian stops, officers had failed to identify individualized, objective, and articulable reasonable suspicion of criminal activity or vehicle equipment violations prior to conducting the stop. Her report also concluded that Milwaukee police officers routinely failed to document race and ethnicity information about people subjected to such stops.

Both reports are part of the public record and available online (Abrams Report and Frasier Report). To learn more about Analysis Group's capabilities, visit www.analysisgroup.com

About Analysis Group

Analysis Group is one of the largest economics consulting firms, with more than 850 professionals across 14 offices in North America, Europe, and Asia. Since 1981, we have provided expertise in economics, finance, health care analytics, and strategy to top law firms, Fortune Global 500 companies, and government agencies worldwide. Our internal experts, together with our network of affiliated experts from academia, industry, and government, offer our clients exceptional breadth and depth of expertise.

Contact:

Analysis Group

Eric Seymour, 617-425-8103

[email protected]

SOURCE Analysis Group

Related Links

http://www.analysisgroup.com


IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- WNC, a national investor in real estate and community development initiatives, announced today that real estate private equity veteran Ann Caruana has joined the firm as senior vice president of acquisitions for the company's preservation equity funds.

"Central to the mission of WNC is the preservation and protection of the already insufficient supply of affordable housing in our nation, and I couldn't be more pleased to welcome Ann to our firm to lead the pursuit of acquisitions for our preservation equity funds," said Will Cooper Jr., president and chief executive officer of WNC. "Ann is a seasoned professional with a unique blend of affordable housing and traditional multifamily investment experience. She will serve as an important member of our executive team."

Prior to joining WNC, Caruana served as senior vice president, acquisitions with a California based real estate private equity firm where she closed $250 million in affordable multifamily transactions and secured $157 million in new or assumable debt. Prior to that, Caruana spent nine years with a public REIT where she served in various research and investment roles, including senior director of market research, director of market research, senior investment analyst and investment manager. She began her career in 2003 with Marcus & Millichap.

Caruana earned a bachelor's degree from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Miami.

About WNC

WNC, founded in 1971 and headquartered in Irvine, Calif., is a national investor in real estate and community development initiatives, as well as a leading investor in low-income housing tax credits (LIHTC). WNC has acquired more than $8.8 billion of assets totaling in excess of 1,350 properties in 47 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. WNC's investor base exceeds 19,500 institutional and retail clients, including Fortune 500 companies, multinational banks, and insurance companies. Additional information is available at www.wncinc.com.

Contact

Julie Leber

Spotlight Marketing Communications

949.427.1391

[email protected]

SOURCE WNC

Related Links

http://www.wncinc.com


DES MOINES, Iowa and ST. LOUIS, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Aptimmune Biologics and Kemin Industries officially announced their partnership in the global vaccine industry. As of July 31, 2018, Kemin is now an equity shareholder in Aptimmune and has exclusive rights to its vaccines and vaccine technologies outside the U.S.

As part of the Kemin-Aptimmune partnership, the companies have formed Kemin Biologics, which will manufacture and market Aptimmune's proprietary Barricade swine vaccine technology and products outside the U.S.

According to Andy Smythe, Technical Sales and Marketing Director for Aptimmune Biologics, the relationship with Kemin is an ideal fit for both companies.

"Kemin has a strong global presence and is focused on providing innovative nutritional and health solutions for a changing world," said Smythe. "We are very excited to combine Aptimmune's expertise in mucosal vaccine technology with Kemin's global business vision."

In the U.S. market, Aptimmune will retain development, sales and marketing responsibilities for its intellectual property and existing vaccine products made with Barricade technology. The Kemin Biologics partnership will be managed by representatives from both companies.

"With this new partnership and the creation of Kemin Biologics, Kemin will work with Aptimmune to achieve synergies and provide worldwide reach to new vaccine technologies developed through this partnership," said GS Ramesh, Global Group President of Animal Nutrition and Health for Kemin Industries. "We see great potential in the marketplace for vaccines and are optimistic about this new business venture for Kemin. Our Animal Nutrition and Health group is driven to improve the health of livestock and ensure the safety of our food supply. Aptimmune's Barricade swine vaccine technology is another way we can do so."

Both parties believe this partnership is ideal, as it brings together Kemin's long-standing dedication to novel and value-added products in the global marketplace and Aptimmune's unique and field-tested Barricade swine product portfolio.

"As a global company focused on improving the quality of life for more than half the people around the world, Kemin is dedicated to innovation, and the vaccine marketplace is a new, important space for our Company to explore," said Dr. Chris Nelson, President and CEO of Kemin Industries.

As stated by Robert Nordgren, Chairman of the Board for Aptimmune, "The additional resources that Aptimmune will share with Kemin and the formation of Kemin Biologics will allow the R&D teams to advance new programs in the swine respiratory disease field for swine producers here in the U.S., and Kemin can focus on expanding the platform in key international markets."

About Aptimmune Biologics

Aptimmune Biologics, St. Louis, Mo., specializes in developing and marketing a portfolio of revolutionary mucosal vaccines that provide answers for the most costly viral diseases impacting the swine industry. Aptimmune's first vaccines are focused on addressing two major viral respiratory pathogens, Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Virus (PRRSV) and Influenza A virus in swine (IAV-S). To learn more visit www.aptimmune.com.

About Kemin Industries

Kemin Industries (www.kemin.com) is a global ingredient manufacturer with a focus on improving the quality of life for over 3.8 billion people each day with more than 500 specialty ingredients made for the human and animal health, pet food, nutraceutical, food technology, crop technologies and textile industries.

For over half a century, Kemin has been dedicated to using applied science to address industry challenges and offers product solutions to customers in more than 120 countries. Kemin provides ingredients to feed a growing population with its commitment to the quality, safety and efficacy of food, feed and health-related products.

Established in 1961, Kemin is a privately-held, family-owned and operated company with more than 2,500 employees globally and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, India, Italy, Russia, Singapore, South Africa and the United States.

Media Contacts:

Kelly Schwalbe, Sage, [email protected], 816-678-6597

Lauren M.G. Burt, Worldwide Communications Manager, [email protected], (515) 559-5589

SOURCE Kemin Industries

Related Links

http://kemin.com


| BY Ricki Green |

The Australian Federal Police has kicked off Missing Persons Week with a spot via Common Ventures.

AFP deputy commissioner Neil Gaughan said he hoped the short video will give the community a window into the profound heartache caused by this issue, as well as the critical role they can play in supporting police.

Says Gaughan: This film echoes the real life grief of so many Australians who live in constant uncertainty, not knowing if or when their loved one will come back.

Says James Crawley, director, Common Ventures: The most heartbreaking thing we found when learning about Missing Persons Week, was the debilitating effect it has on the families left behind.

They are left in limbo. They cant move through the grief, and their life is essentially put on hold.

The spot is inspired from a true story. Eileen Fahey, whose son Anthony Fahey went missing in 2013, said the films narrative is similar to her own experience.

While we are currently endeavouring to sell our house, its upsetting because what if Anthony comes home and someone else is living here? How will he find us, how will he feel, what will he do? Ms Fahey said.

I also worry that, if we sell, I wont have the memories of him being in the house. Im afraid that Ill forget the image of him sitting at the end of the bench and the sound of his voice. Its all tied up in the house  how can I leave it?

DC Gaughan said that, as part of the 30th National Missing Persons Week activities, the AFP and its state and territory counterparts are also profiling 30 long-term missing people from around the nation on social media and outdoor advertising.

Says Gaughan: Its important that we raise awareness of this issue, including the reasons why people go missing, the social and financial impacts, and how the community can get involved. This might mean taking an interest and sharing our social media posts, or sharing a photo of an outdoor advertisement. After all, the community is our eyes and ears in these cases, helping police find the many thousands of people who go missing each year.

If you recognise any of the missing people profiled this NMPW, or indeed any of the 2600 long-term missing persons on the Public Register at www.missingpersons.gov.au, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. You might just have a piece of information that could help bring them home.

Client: Australian Federal Police

Brand lead: National Missing Persons Coordination Centre

Creative & Production Company: Common Ventures

Director / Creative Director: James Crawley

1st AD: Adam Wareham

Cinematographer: George Tyler

Executive Creative Director: Brian Merrifield

Producer / Account Manager: Lisa Pizarro

Copywriter: Daniel Nutman

Junior Creatives: Lucy Karsai & Dillon Harre

Talent: Alan Dukes & Ruby Burke
ALPHARETTA, Ga., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Avanos Medical, Inc. (NYSE: AVNS) today reported second quarter 2018 results, raised its full-year 2018 Medical Device net sales expectations and adjusted diluted earnings per share outlook.

"I'm pleased to announce another strong quarter with 7 percent organic top-line growth driven by continued strength in Coolief and Chronic Care," said Joe Woody, Avanos chief executive officer. "Looking at the balance of the year, we're well-positioned to continue to drive performance with momentum across our business. With our solid financial profile, we'll continue to pursue acquisitions - like Game Ready that drive shareholder value. As a result, we are now raising top-line sales growth to 5 to 7 percent and full-year earnings per share guidance to $1.75 to $1.90."

Second Quarter 2018 Financial Highlights

Second quarter net sales from continuing operations, or Medical Device sales, were $161 million , an 8 percent increase from the prior year. On a constant currency basis, sales increased 7 percent.

, an 8 percent increase from the prior year. On a constant currency basis, sales increased 7 percent. Net income for the second quarter totaled $35 million , up from $17 million in the prior year. Adjusted net income totaled $23 million , compared to $24 million a year ago.

, up from in the prior year. Adjusted net income totaled , compared to a year ago. Second quarter diluted earnings per share totaled $0.73 , compared to $0.37 a year ago.

, compared to a year ago. Adjusted diluted earnings per share were $0.48 , compared to $0.51 in the prior year.

, compared to in the prior year. Second quarter EBITDA totaled $119 million , compared to $45 million in the prior year. On an adjusted basis, EBITDA was $36 million for the quarter, compared to $51 million in the prior year.

Operational and Business Highlights

On July 1 , closed the previously announced acquisition of CoolSysems, Inc. (Game Ready), a market-leading provider of cold and compression therapy systems, which enhances the diversity of Avanos' non-opioid pain management portfolio.

, closed the previously announced acquisition of CoolSysems, Inc. (Game Ready), a market-leading provider of cold and compression therapy systems, which enhances the diversity of Avanos' non-opioid pain management portfolio. On June 21 , hosted inaugural Analyst & Investor Conference where the company presented its strategic framework for accelerating top-line growth and expanding margins.

, hosted inaugural Analyst & Investor Conference where the company presented its strategic framework for accelerating top-line growth and expanding margins. Repaid the $299 million balance of its Term Loan.

Second Quarter 2018 Operating Results from Continuing Operations

Medical Device net sales totaled $161 million, a 7 percent increase compared to the second quarter last year, on a constant currency basis.

Performance was driven by increased demand in interventional pain, respiratory health and digestive health as volumes increased 5 percent, and improved product mix and higher selling prices benefited sales by 2 percent. Also, favorable currency exchange rates aided sales by 1 percent.

Operating income totaled $9 million compared to a loss of $12 million in 2017. Volume growth and lower costs previously allocated to S&IP, offset by increased investment for growth, helped drive performance. On an adjusted basis, operating profit was $16 million, an increase from $0 million in 2017.

As a result of the previously announced divestiture, the S&IP segment operating results are reflected as discontinued operations for all periods presented. Treating S&IP as discontinued operations results in significant shared overhead costs previously allocated to the S&IP business that are now included in continuing operations. Included in second quarter continuing operations are costs previously allocated to S&IP of $9 million in 2018 and $28 million, in 2017.

Adjusted operating profit for the second quarter excludes $4 million of restructuring and IT charges, $1 million for litigation matters, $5 million of intangible amortization expense and $3 million of income from post divestiture transition service agreements (TSAs).

Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter, excluding a $90 million gain on the divestiture of the S&IP business and$3 million in proceeds from TSAs, partially offset by $4 million in restructuring and IT charges, $5 million of divestiture-related charges and $1 million of litigation expenses, totaled $36 million compared to $51 million in the prior year.

Year-to-Date 2018 Operating Results From Continuing Operations

In the first six months of 2018, Medical Device net sales totaled $317 million, a 7 percent increase compared to the comparable period in 2017, on a constant currency basis.

Performance was driven by increased demand in interventional pain, respiratory health and digestive health as volumes increased 5 percent and improved product mix and higher selling prices benefited sales by 1 percent. Also, favorable currency exchange rates aided sales by 1 percent.

Year-to-date, operating profit totaled $2 million compared to a loss of $30 million in the first half of 2017. Volume growth and lower costs previously allocated to S&IP offset by increased investment for growth, helped drive performance. On an adjusted basis, operating profit was $18 million compared to a loss of $2 million in 2017.

Included in year-to-date continuing operations are costs previously allocated to S&IP of $37 million in 2018 and $57 million in 2017.

Adjusted operating profit for the first six months of 2018 excludes $7 million of restructuring and IT charges, $3 million for litigation matters, $9 million of intangible amortization expense and offset by $3 million of income from TSAs.

Year-to-date, adjusted EBITDA, excluding a $90 million gain from the divestiture of the S&IP business and $3 million of proceeds from TSAs, partially offset by $7 million of restructuring and IT charges, $17 million of divestiture-related charges, and $3 million of litigation expenses, was $95 million compared to $104 million in the prior year.

Cash Flow and Balance Sheet

Total debt at the end of the second quarter was $247 million, consisting of unsecured notes, compared to $581 million at the end of 2017. The decrease in total debt was due to the $339 million repayment of the secured term loan.

Cash from operations less capital expenditures, or free cash flow, for the quarter was an outflow of $108 million compared to an inflow of $13 million a year ago. Excluding the net settlement of liabilities associated with the divestiture of the S&IP business, free cash flow for the quarter was an outflow of $10 million. The company's cash balance was $531 million at the end of the quarter, compared to $220 million at the end of 2017.

Discontinued Operations

Second quarter net sales from discontinued operations were $89 million, compared to $250 million a year ago. Adjusted net income from discontinued operations for the quarter totaled $13 million compared to $28 million in the prior year.

Year-to-date, net sales from discontinued operations were $353 million, compared to $500 million, a year ago. Adjusted net loss from discontinued operations for the first six months of 2018 totaled $54 million, compared to $56 million of net income, in the prior year.

2018 Key Planning Assumptions

The company raised its full-year adjusted diluted earnings per share expectations from a range of $1.65 to $1.85, to $1.75 to $1.90, which includes earnings from both continuing and discontinued operations.

Additionally, based on current trends, the company is updating two of its planning assumptions, as described below:

Medical Device sales, on a constant currency basis and excluding Game Ready, are expected to increase between 5 and 7 percent.

The adjusted effective tax rate is expected to be between 23 and 25 percent.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This press release and the accompanying tables include the following financial measures that have not been calculated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S., or GAAP, and are therefore referred to as non-GAAP financial measures:

Adjusted net income

Adjusted diluted earnings per share

Adjusted gross and operating profit

Adjusted effective tax rate

Adjusted EBITDA

Free cash flow

These non-GAAP financial measures exclude the following items, as applicable, for the relevant time periods as indicated in the accompanying non-GAAP reconciliations to the comparable GAAP financial measures:

Expenses associated with the divestiture of the S&IP business and the corporate restructuring and IT transformation costs.

The gain on sale and associated expenses related to the divestiture of the S&IP business.

Prior year transition costs relating to the separation from Kimberly-Clark Corporation, which included costs to establish Avanos Medical's capabilities as a stand-alone entity. These costs are related primarily to rebranding and other supply chain transition costs.

Expenses associated with the amortization of intangible assets associated with prior business acquisitions.

The positive or negative effect of changes in currency exchange rates during the year.

Expenses associated with certain litigation matters.

Certain prior year acquisition and integration charges related to the acquisition of CORPAK MedSystems, Inc.

Certain acquisition and integration charges related to Game Ready in the current year.

Prior periods impact of tax regulatory changes.

The company provides these non-GAAP financial measures as supplemental information to our GAAP financial measures. Management and the company's Board of Directors use net sales on a constant currency basis, adjusted net income, adjusted diluted earnings per share, adjusted operating profit, adjusted EBITDA, and free cash flow to (a) evaluate the company's historical and prospective financial performance and its performance relative to its competitors, (b) allocate resources and (c) measure the operational performance of the company's business units and their managers. Management also believes that the use of an adjusted effective tax rate provides improved insight into the tax effects of our ongoing business operations.

Additionally, the Compensation Committee of the company's Board of Directors will use certain of the non-GAAP financial measures when setting and assessing achievement of incentive compensation goals. These goals are based, in part, on the company's net sales on a constant currency basis and adjusted EBITDA, which will be determined by excluding certain items that are used in calculating these non-GAAP financial measures.

Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are included in the attached financial tables.

Conference Call Webcast

Avanos Medical, Inc. will host a conference call today at 9 a.m. ET. The conference call can be accessed live over the internet at https://avanos.investorroom.com or via telephone by dialing 877-240-5772 in the United States. A replay of the call will be available at noon ET today by calling 877-344-7529 in the United States and entering passcode 10122367. A webcast of the call will also be archived in the Investors section on the Avanos website.

About Avanos Medical

Avanos Medical (NYSE: AVNS) is a medical device company focused on delivering clinically superior breakthrough solutions that will help patients get back to the things that matter. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, Avanos is committed to creating the next generation of innovative healthcare solutions which will address our most important healthcare needs, such as reducing the use of opioids while helping patients move from surgery to recovery. Avanos develops, manufactures and markets its recognized brands in more than 90 countries. For more information, visit www.avanos.com .

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains information that includes or is based on "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on the current plans and expectations of management and are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Forward-looking statements include all statements that do not relate solely to historical or current facts, and can generally be identified by the use of words such as "may", "believe", "will", "expect", "project", " estimate", "anticipate", "plan", or "continue" and similar expressions, among others. Such factors include, but are not limited to: weakening of economic conditions that could adversely affect the level of demand for our products; pricing pressures generally, including cost-containment measures that could adversely affect the price of or demand for our products; S&IP separation execution; changes in foreign exchange markets; legislative and regulatory actions; unanticipated issues arising in connection with clinical studies and otherwise that affect U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of new products; changes in reimbursement levels from third-party payors; a significant increase in product liability claims; the impact of investigative and legal proceedings and compliance risks; the impact of the federal legislation to reform the United States healthcare system; changes in financial markets; and changes in the competitive environment. Additional information concerning these and other factors that may impact future results is contained in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.

AVANOS MEDICAL, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS (unaudited) (in millions, except per share amounts)













































Three Months Ended

June 30,





Six Months Ended

June 30,





2018

2017

Change

2018

2017



Net Sales $ 160.9



$ 149.1



7.9 %

$ 317.3



$ 294.8



7.6 % Cost of products sold 66.2



64.6



2.5



131.5



128.8



2.1

Gross Profit 94.7



84.5



12.1



185.8



166.0



11.9

Research and development expenses 10.8



9.2



17.4



20.7



16.5



25.5

Selling and general expenses 79.8



81.1



(1.6)



166.2



165.9



0.2

Other (income) expense, net (4.7)



6.3



N.M.



(2.9)



13.3



N.M.

Operating Income (Loss) 8.8



(12.1)



(172.7)



1.8



(29.7)



(106.1)

Interest income 2.2



0.5



N.M.



3.2



0.9



N.M.

Interest expense (9.9)



(7.8)



26.9



(18.7)



(15.4)



21.4

Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes 1.1



(19.4)



(105.7)



(13.7)



(44.2)



(69.0)

Income tax (provision) benefit 0.2



8.0



(97.5)



3.7



17.9



(79.3)

Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations 1.3



(11.4)



(111.4)



(10.0)



(26.3)



(62.0)

Income from discontinued operations, net of tax 34.0



28.5



N.M.



65.5



56.2



N.M.

Net Income $ 35.3



$ 17.1



106.4



$ 55.5



$ 29.9



85.6

























Interest expense, net 7.7



7.3



5.5



15.5



14.5



6.9

Income tax provision 67.7



4.8



1,310.4



73.8



11.1



564.9

Depreciation and amortization 7.8



16.2



(51.9)



15.6



32.4



(51.9)

EBITDA $ 118.5



$ 45.4



161.0



$ 160.4



$ 87.9



82.5

























Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share





















Continuing operations $ 0.03



$ (0.24)



(112.5)



$ (0.21)



$ (0.56)



(62.5)

Discontinued operations 0.72



0.61



18.0



1.39



1.20



15.8

Net income $ 0.75



$ 0.37



102.7



$ 1.18



$ 0.64



84.4

Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share





















Continuing operations $ 0.03



$ (0.24)



(112.5)



$ (0.21)



$ (0.56)



(62.5)

Discontinued operations 0.70



0.61



14.8



1.39



1.20



15.8

Net income $ 0.73



$ 0.37



97.3



$ 1.18



$ 0.64



84.4

























Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding





















Basic 47.1



46.7







47.0



46.7





Diluted 48.2



46.7







47.0



46.7







AVANOS MEDICAL, INC. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS SUMMARY (unaudited) (in millions, except per share amounts)

































Income from Discontinued Operations

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 Net Sales $ 89.0



$ 250.1



$ 353.0



$ 500.0

Cost of products sold 65.8



190.0



260.3



378.5

Research and development 0.2



0.6



1.1



1.3

Selling and general expenses 10.9



19.0



38.1



35.4

Gain on Divestiture (89.9)







(89.9)





Other expense, net 0.1



(0.8)



0.4



(0.4)

Income from discontinued operations before income taxes 101.9



41.3



143.0



85.2

Tax provision from discontinued operations (67.9)



(12.8)



(77.5)



(29.0)

Income from Discontinued Operations, net $ 34.0



$ 28.5



$ 65.5



$ 56.2

















Earnings per share from discontinued operations:













Basic $ 0.72



$ 0.61



$ 1.39



$ 1.20

Diluted 0.70



0.61



1.39



1.20



AVANOS MEDICAL, INC. NON-GAAP RECONCILIATIONS (unaudited) (in millions)

































Gross Profit

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 As reported $ 94.7



$ 84.5



$ 185.8



$ 166.0

















Restructuring and IT charges 0.6







0.6





Acquisition-related charges 



0.7







1.2

Spin-related transition charges 



(0.3)







(0.3)

Intangibles amortization 1.0



0.9



1.9



1.9

















As adjusted non-GAAP $ 96.3



$ 85.8



$ 188.3



$ 168.8





































Operating Profit (Loss)

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 As reported $ 8.8



$ (12.1)



$ 1.8



$ (29.7)

















Restructuring and IT charges 3.9







6.8





Post divestiture transition (benefit) charges (3.3)







(3.3)





Acquisition-related charges 0.3



1.7



0.3



3.3

Spin-related transition charges 











0.5

Litigation and legal 1.2



5.7



2.9



13.7

Intangibles amortization 4.7



5.1



9.2



10.4

















As adjusted non-GAAP $ 15.6



$ 0.4



$ 17.7



$ (1.8)



AVANOS MEDICAL, INC. NON-GAAP RECONCILIATIONS (unaudited) (in millions)

































Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 As reported $ 1.1



$ (19.4)



$ (13.7)



$ (44.2)

















Restructuring and IT charges 3.9







6.8





Post divestiture transition (benefit) charges (3.3)







(3.3)





Term Loan B retirement loss 4.2







4.2





Acquisition-related charges 0.3



1.7



0.3



3.3

Spin-related transition charges 











0.5

Litigation and legal 1.2



5.7



2.9



13.7

Intangibles amortization 4.7



5.1



9.2



10.4

















As adjusted non-GAAP $ 12.1



$ (6.9)



$ 6.4



$ (16.3)





































Income Tax (Provision) Benefit

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 As reported $ 0.2



$ 8.0



$ 3.7



$ 17.9

Effective tax rate, as reported (18.2)%



41.2 %

27.0 %

40.5 %















Restructuring and IT charges (1.0)







(1.8)





Post divestiture transition (benefit) charges 0.9







0.9





Term Loan B retirement loss (1.1)







(1.1)





Acquisition-related charges (0.1)



(0.6)



(0.1)



(1.2)

Spin-related transition charges 



0.1







(0.1)

Litigation and legal (0.2)



(2.2)



(0.7)



(5.2)

Intangibles amortization (1.1)



(1.9)



(2.3)



(4.0)

















As adjusted non-GAAP $ (2.4)



$ 3.4



$ (1.4)



$ 7.4

Effective tax rate, as adjusted 19.8 %

49.3 %

21.9 %

45.4 %

AVANOS MEDICAL, INC. NON-GAAP RECONCILIATIONS (unaudited) (in millions, except per share amounts)

































Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 As reported $ 1.3



$ (11.4)



$ (10.0)



$ (26.3)

Diluted EPS, as reported $ 0.03



$ (0.24)



$ (0.21)



$ (0.56)

















Restructuring and IT charges 2.9







5.0





Post divestiture transition (benefit) charges (2.4)







(2.4)





Term Loan B retirement loss 3.1







3.1





Acquisition-related charges 0.2



1.1



0.2



2.1

Spin-related transition charges 



0.1







0.4

Litigation and legal 1.0



3.5



2.2



8.5

Intangibles amortization 3.6



3.2



6.9



6.4

















As adjusted non-GAAP $ 9.7



$ (3.5)



$ 5.0



$ (8.9)

Diluted EPS, as adjusted $ 0.20



$ (0.07)



$ 0.11



$ (0.19)





































Income from Discontinued Operations, net of tax

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 As reported $ 34.0



$ 28.5



$ 65.5



$ 56.2

Diluted EPS, as reported $ 0.70



$ 0.61



$ 1.39



$ 1.20

















Divestiture-related charges 3.9







12.9





Gain on Divestiture (24.5)







(24.5)





Spin-related transition charges 



(1.1)







(1.0)

Intangibles amortization 



0.1







0.3

















As adjusted non-GAAP $ 13.4



$ 27.5



$ 53.9



$ 55.5

Diluted EPS, as adjusted $ 0.28



$ 0.59



$ 1.15



$ 1.19



AVANOS MEDICAL, INC. NON-GAAP RECONCILIATIONS (unaudited) (in millions, except per share amounts)

































Net Income

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 As reported $ 35.3



$ 17.1



$ 55.5



$ 29.9

Diluted EPS, as reported $ 0.73



$ 0.37



$ 1.18



$ 0.64

















Restructuring and IT charges 2.9







5.0





Post divestiture transition (benefit) charges (2.4)







(2.4)





Divestiture-related charges 3.9







12.9





Gain on Divestiture (24.5)







(24.5)





Term Loan B retirement loss 3.1







3.1





Acquisition-related charges 0.2



1.1



0.2



2.1

Spin-related transition charges 



(1.0)







(0.6)

Litigation and legal 1.0



3.5



2.2



8.5

Intangibles amortization 3.6



3.3



6.9



6.7

















As adjusted non-GAAP $ 23.1



$ 24.0



$ 58.9



$ 46.6

Diluted EPS, as adjusted $ 0.48



$ 0.51



$ 1.25



$ 1.00





































EBITDA

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 EBITDA, as reported $ 118.5



$ 45.4



$ 160.4



$ 87.9

















Restructuring and IT charges 3.9







6.8





Post divestiture transition (benefit) charges (3.3)







(3.3)





Divestiture-related charges 5.2







17.4





Gain on Divestiture (89.9)







(89.9)





Acquisition-related charges 0.3



1.6



0.3



3.0

Spin-related transition charges 



(1.5)







(0.8)

Litigation and legal 1.2



5.7



2.9



13.7

















Adjusted EBITDA $ 35.9



$ 51.2



$ 94.6



$ 103.8



AVANOS MEDICAL, INC. NON-GAAP RECONCILIATIONS (unaudited) (in millions, except per share amounts)

































Free Cash Flow

Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 Cash (used in) provided by operating activities $ (96.7)



$ 19.7



$ (70.4)



$ 56.7

Capital expenditures (11.1)



(6.4)



(20.7)



(16.6)

Free Cash Flow $ (107.8)



$ 13.3



$ (91.1)



$ 40.1



2018 OUTLOOK

















Estimated Range Adjusted diluted earnings per share $ 1.75

to $ 1.90

Amortization (0.29)

to (0.29)

Divestiture-related charges (0.66)

to (0.60)

Restructuring and IT charges (0.38)

to (0.33)

Gain on divestiture 0.50

to 0.50

Acquisition and integration expenses (0.14)

to (0.12)

Other (0.28)

to (0.18)

Diluted earnings per share (GAAP) $ 0.50

to $ 0.88



AVANOS MEDICAL, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (unaudited) (in millions)

















June 30,

2018

December 31,

2017 ASSETS





Current Assets





Cash and cash equivalents $ 479.6



$ 219.7

Restricted cash 51.5





Accounts receivable, net of allowances 189.2



203.0

Inventories 107.8



91.1

Prepaid expenses and other current assets 48.4



14.4

Assets held for sale 



632.5

Total Current Assets 876.5



1,160.7

Property, Plant and Equipment, net 123.5



109.9

Goodwill 763.8



764.7

Other Intangible Assets, net 139.5



148.9

Deferred Tax Assets 10.6



7.6

Other Assets 3.5



4.1

TOTAL ASSETS $ 1,917.4



$ 2,195.9









LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY





Current Liabilities





Current portion of long-term debt $ 



$ 39.8

Trade accounts payable 176.9



171.2

Accrued expenses 175.9



144.9

Liabilities held for sale 



33.9

Total Current Liabilities 352.8



389.8

Long-Term Debt 247.4



541.1

Deferred Tax Liabilities 1.0



17.8

Other Long-Term Liabilities 29.6



31.8

TOTAL LIABILITIES 630.8



980.5

Stockholders' Equity 1,286.6



1,215.4

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 1,917.4



$ 2,195.9



AVANOS MEDICAL, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENTS (unaudited) (in millions)

































Three Months Ended

June 30,

Six Months Ended

June 30,

2018

2017

2018

2017 Operating Activities













Net income $ 35.3



$ 17.1



$ 55.5



$ 29.9

Depreciation and amortization 7.8



16.2



15.6



32.4

Net gain on the Divestiture (98.4)







(98.4)





Net (gain) loss on asset dispositions (0.2)







0.6





Changes in operating assets and liabilities (31.2)



(21.9)



(37.8)



(21.8)

Deferred income taxes and other (10.0)



8.3



(5.9)



16.2

Cash (Used in) Provided by Operating Activities (96.7)



19.7



(70.4)



56.7

Investing Activities













Capital expenditures (11.1)



(6.4)



(20.7)



(16.6)

Proceeds from the Divestiture 734.5



0.1



734.5



0.1

Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities 723.4



(6.3)



713.8



(16.5)

Financing Activities













Debt repayments (299.0)







(339.0)





Purchase of treasury stock (0.5)



(2.0)



(0.6)



(2.0)

Proceeds from the exercise of stock options 8.0



0.3



11.4



0.8

Cash Used in Financing Activities (291.5)



(1.7)



(328.2)



(1.2)

Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on Cash, Cash Equivalents and

Restricted Cash (7.2)







(3.8)



2.1

Increase in Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash 328.0



11.7



311.4



41.1

Cash and Cash Equivalents - Beginning of Period 203.1



143.1



219.7



113.7

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash - End of Period $ 531.1



$ 154.8



$ 531.1



$ 154.8



AVANOS MEDICAL, INC. SELECTED BUSINESS SEGMENT DATA (unaudited) (in millions)













































Three Months Ended

June 30,





Six Months Ended

June 30,





2018

2017

Change

2018

2017

Change Operating Profit (Loss)





















Medical Devices(a) $ 31.1



$ 40.7



(23.6)%



$ 71.2



$ 78.7



(9.5)%

Corporate and Other(b) (27.0)



(46.5)



N.M.



(72.3)



(95.1)



N.M.

Other expense, net(c) 4.7



(6.3)



N.M.



2.9



(13.3)



N.M.

Total Operating Loss $ 8.8



$ (12.1)



(172.7)%



$ 1.8



$ (29.7)



(106.1)%







(a) Operating profit includes $4.7 million and $9.2 million of amortization expense in the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, respectively compared to $5.1 million and $10.4 million in the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, respectively. (b) Corporate and Other for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 includes $9.1 million and $37.0 million, respectively, of costs formerly included in the S&IP business, $14.0 million and $28.5 million, respectively, of general expenses and $3.9 million and $6.8 million, respectively, of restructuring costs. Corporate and Other for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 includes $28.4 million and $57.3 million, respectively, of costs formerly included in the S&IP business, $16.4 million and $34.0 million, respectively, of general expenses, $1.7 million and $3.3 million, respectively, of acquisition-related expenses and zero and $0.5 million for post spin-related items. (c) Other expense includes amounts incurred related to litigation matters.

N.M. - Not meaningful

















































Three Months Ended

June 30,





Six Months Ended

June 30,





2018

2017

Change

2018

2017

Change Chronic care $ 97.1



$ 88.7



9.5 %

$ 194.2



$ 177.3



9.5 % Pain management 63.8



60.4



5.6



123.1



117.5



4.8

Net Sales $ 160.9



$ 149.1



7.9 %

$ 317.3



$ 294.8



7.6 %

























Total

Volume

Pricing/Mix

Currency

Other(a)



Net Sales - percentage change - QTD 8 %

5 %

2 %

1 %

 %



Net Sales - percentage change - YTD 8 %

5 %

1 %

1 %

1 %









(a) Other includes rounding.

SOURCE Avanos Medical, Inc.

Related Links

http://avanos.com


WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- On Wednesday Aug. 8, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, will hold a press conference at its Capitol Hill headquarters in Washington, D.C.

At the press conference, CAIR will announce its new constitutional challenge to the federal government's watchlisting system, including the TSA's recently revealed Quiet Skies program.

WHAT: CAIR News Conference

WHO: CAIR Civil Rights Attorneys and Some of the Plaintiffs

WHEN: Wednesday, Aug. 8, 12:00 p.m.

WHERE: CAIR Capitol Hill Headquarters, 453 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, D.C. 20003

CONTACT: CAIR Senior Litigation Attorney Gadeir Abbas, 720-251-0425, [email protected]; CAIR National Litigation Director Lena Masri, 248-390-9784, [email protected]

SEE: Welcome to the Quiet Skies (Boston Globe)

Quiet Skies punishes those whothrough family, community or the workplacehave relationships with individuals the federal government has designated as a "known or suspected terrorist." The program imposes indiscriminate surveillance upon a designee's family members, friends, co-workers, and travel companions at airports and on airplanes.

SEE: Have you gained or lost weight? Congrats, TSA is tracking you for suspicious activity (USA Today)

The lawsuit's plaintiffs are more than a dozen innocent American Muslims and their familiespeople who have not been charged, arrested, or convicted of a terrorism-related crimefrom Washington DC, Florida, Michigan, Oregon, Kansas, Washington State and New Jersey.

The federal government uses the watchlisting system to, as one judge described it, "transfor[m] a person into a second class citizen, or worse."

Targets of the watchlisting system can be denied the ability to travel by air, subject to invasive and stigmatizing searches and interrogations, detained for hours at border crossings, have their electronics seized, be deprived of the right to purchase a firearm, and have their bank accounts closedin addition to other innumerable consequences that flow from the government's secretive watchlists.

The watchlist, as a whole, singles out innocent Muslims. The stigmatizing label of "terrorist" impairs their family, religious, business and employment relationships regardless of their innocence.

CAIR has filed multiple challenges to the government's watchlisting system along with multiple lawsuits to allow Americans who are subject to the system's flight ban return to the United States.

SEE: CAIR-Florida Helps Muslim Citizen on No-Fly List to Successfully Return to Florida

Cair Holds News Conference for Return of Utah Imam Abdi After Lawsuit Challenging No-Fly List

If you or your friends or family have experienced significant and invasive travel delays, please file a report with our Civil Rights Department at https://www.cair.com/report.

CAIR launched an app to share critical "know your rights" information and to simplify the process to report hate crimes and bias incidents. CAIR is urging American Muslims and members of other minority groups to download the app and utilize this resource to stay informed and empowered.

For a quick download of CAIR's civil rights app, click here: http://www.cair.com/app

CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.

La mision de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprension del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

CONTACT: CAIR Senior Litigation Attorney Gadeir Abbas, 720-251-0425, [email protected]; CAIR National Litigation Director Lena Masri, 248-390-9784, [email protected]

SOURCE Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)

Related Links

http://www.cair.com


LOS ANGELES, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- In its continuing effort to address California's unprecedented housing supply crisis and eliminate the "moving penalty" that severely restricts the ability of seniors, disabled residents, and victims of natural disasters to relocate, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (C.A.R.) has filed a revised initiative with the Attorney General for preparation of title and summary for the November 2020 ballot. The new initiative would:

Remove the "moving penalty" for seniors 55 and older, the disabled, victims of natural disasters, and those whose homes are located on contaminated property, allowing them to carry their current Proposition 13-protected property tax assessment level to another home of any price, anywhere in the state, any number of times.

Eliminate intergenerational transfers of primary residences and other inherited property being used as income-producing properties without reassessment.

Address abuses by commercial property owners who avoid property tax reassessment by means of "creative" transfers.

"Filing this new initiative will allow C.A.R.  in the event the 'moving penalty' is not eliminated this November  to immediately begin gathering signatures to qualify the new initiative for the November 2020 ballot and reinforce our commitment to making tax fairness a reality," said C.A.R. President Steve White. "This new initiative will provide for property tax base portability, reform the intergenerational transfer laws, and address the true 'split roll' problem  corporations gaming the current property tax reassessment system. And, most significantly, it will raise money for schools and local governments," stated White.

An initiative opposed by C.A.R. to tax commercial property at a higher rate than residential property has already qualified for the November 2020 ballot.

Last October, the Legislative Analyst's Office issued a report in which it noted that the state is losing $1.5 billion per year due to parent/child and grandparent/grandchild property transfers. C.A.R.'s new initiative would require the child/grandchild to reside in the home (as opposed, for example, to renting out the home), and limit the value of the exemption to $1 million.

Current law requires at least 50 percent of a company to be transferred in order for reassessment of that company's real property holdings to be reassessed. C.A.R.'s new initiative states that regardless of the increments of transfer, if a total of 90 percent of a company is transferred, the real property holdings of the company must be reassessed.

C.A.R. has already qualified an initiative for the November 2018 ballot, now known as Proposition 5, which addresses the "moving penalty" on seniors, the disabled, victims of natural disasters, and those whose homes are located on contaminated property.

Leading the way in California real estate for more than 110 years, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS (www.car.org) is one of the largest state trade organizations in the United States with more than 190,000 members dedicated to the advancement of professionalism in real estate. C.A.R. is headquartered in Los Angeles.

SOURCE CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

Related Links

http://www.car.org


Total revenue for the second quarter of 2018 was $17.5 million, a 15% decrease compared to $20.6 million reported for the second quarter of 2017. Second quarter 2018 licensing and related revenue was $10.0 million, a decrease of 3% when compared to $10.3 million reported for the same quarter a year ago. Royalty revenue for the second quarter of 2018 was $7.5 million, a decrease of 27% when compared to $10.2 million reported for the second quarter of 2017.

Gideon Wertheizer, CEO of CEVA, stated: "Our licensing business continued on track in the second quarter, with healthy demand for our AI, computer vision and connectivity products. Our second quarter royalty revenue came in below expectations due to continued unexpected weakness with one of our large Chinese handset baseband customers. We now expect the weakness with this Chinese customer to continue for the rest of the year and have reduced our annual royalty expectations accordingly. With that said, we are encouraged by a new production ramp and share gain of a flagship smartphone and the continued expansion of our non-handset baseband products. As a result, we expect royalties for the second half of the year to be both substantially stronger than the first half and deliver year-over-year growth with respect to the second half of 2018."

GAAP net loss for the second quarter of 2018 was $2.1 million, compared to $3.9 million net income reported for the same period in 2017. GAAP diluted loss per share for the second quarter of 2018 was $0.09, compared to diluted earnings per share of $0.17 a year ago. GAAP net income and diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of 2017 included a tax benefit of approximately $1.8 million as a result of the successful conclusion of a tax audit.

Non-GAAP net income and diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of 2018 were $0.9 million and $0.04, respectively, compared to $6.3 million non-GAAP net income and $0.28 diluted earnings per share reported for the second quarter of 2017. Non-GAAP net income and diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of 2018 excluded: (a) equity-based compensation expense, net of taxes, of $2.7 million, and (b) the impact of the amortization of acquired intangibles of $0.3 million associated with the acquisition of RivieraWaves and NB-IoT technologies. Net income and diluted earnings per share for the second quarter of 2017 excluded: (a) equity-based compensation expense, net of taxes, of $2.1 million, and (b) the impact of the amortization of acquired intangibles of $0.3 million associated with the acquisition of RivieraWaves.

During the quarter, CEVA completed nine license agreements. Four of the agreements were for CEVA DSP and AI platforms, including a third NeuPro AI license agreement, and five were for CEVA connectivity IPs. Eight of the agreements were for non-handset baseband applications and three were with first-time customers of CEVA. Customers' target markets for the licenses include advanced cameras, drones, smart speakers, smartphones, wireless headphones and IoT devices. Geographically, five of the deals signed were in China, one was in Europe and three were in the APAC region, including Japan.

Yaniv Arieli, Chief Financial Officer of CEVA, stated: "Despite lower-than-expected royalty revenue for the second quarter, we were pleased to see continued progress in our non-handset baseband customers, who shipped a new record level of 88 million CEVA-powered devices. On buyback, we purchased approximately 270,000 shares of our common stock in the second quarter for an aggregate consideration of approximately $9 million. In addition, our Board of Directors approved the expansion of this plan during the quarter, and as of June 30th, we have a total of 700,000 shares of common stock available for repurchase. Moreover, CEVA's cash and cash equivalent balances, marketable securities and bank deposits were approximately $173 million at the end of the quarter."

Full Year 2018 Revenue Guidance and Commentary

As a result of the lower royalty revenue for the first half of 2018, the expectation of continued weakness with the Chinese handset baseband customer for the remainder of 2018, and the lack of visibility and uncertainty for the timing of resumption of royalties with the well-publicized ban of a Chinese base station customer, the company is lowering 2018 annual royalty guidance to a level representing a 10% decrease from 2017 royalty revenue. While it is encouraging that the base station customer has resumed operations, it's assumed, that it will take them a few months to rebuild their supply chain and to get back to full production and shipments. In light of the above and to be prudent, the company now projects total annual revenue to be approximately $80 million.

CEVA Conference Call

On August 07, 2018 CEVA management will conduct a conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss the operating performance for the quarter.

The conference call will be available via the following dial in numbers:

U.S. Participants: Dial 1-844-435-0316 (Access Code: CEVA)

International Participants: Dial +1-412-317-6365 (Access Code: CEVA)

The conference call will also be available live via webcast at the following link: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/984/26513. Please go to the web site at least fifteen minutes prior to the call to register, download and install any necessary audio software.

For those who cannot access the live broadcast, a replay will be available by dialing +1-877-344-7529 or +1-412-317-0088 (access code: 10122115) from one hour after the end of the call until 9:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) on August 14, 2018. The replay will also be available at CEVA's web site www.ceva-dsp.com.

About CEVA, Inc.

CEVA is the leading licensor of signal processing platforms and artificial intelligence processors for a smarter, connected world. We partner with semiconductor companies and OEMs worldwide to create power-efficient, intelligent and connected devices for a range of end markets, including mobile, consumer, automotive, industrial and IoT. Our ultra-low-power IPs for vision, audio, communications and connectivity include comprehensive DSP-based platforms for LTE/LTE-A/5G baseband processing in handsets, infrastructure and cellular IoT enabled devices, advanced imaging and computer vision for any camera-enabled device, audio/voice/speech and ultra-low power always-on/sensing applications for multiple IoT markets. For artificial intelligence, we offer a family of AI processors capable of handling the complete gamut of neural network workloads, on-device. For connectivity, we offer the industry's most widely adopted IPs for Bluetooth (low energy and dual mode) and Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax up to 4x4). Visit us at www.ceva-dsp.com and follow us on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Forward Looking Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, as well as assumptions that if they materialize or prove incorrect, could cause the results of CEVA to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions. Forward-looking statements include Mr. Wertheizer's statements about the second half of the year being substantially stronger in royalty revenue due to a new flagship smartphone and continued expansion of CEVA's non-handset baseband products, the revised annual revenue and annual royalty revenue guidance and the rationale for such revised guidance in the section entitled, "Full Year 2018 Revenue Guidance and Commentary," as well as any potential prospects of share buybacks. The risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause differing CEVA results include: the ability of the CEVA DSP cores and other technologies to continue to be strong growth drivers for us; our success in penetrating new markets, including in non-baseband markets, and maintaining our market position in existing markets; our ability to diversify the company's royalty streams, the ability of products incorporating our technologies to achieve market acceptance, the speed and extent of the expansion of the 4G, 5G and LTE networks, the maturation of the IoT market, the effect of intense industry competition and consolidation, global chip market trends, the possibility that markets for CEVA's technologies may not develop as expected or that products incorporating our technologies do not achieve market acceptance; our ability to timely and successfully develop and introduce new technologies; and general market conditions and other risks relating to our business, including, but not limited to, those that are described from time to time in our SEC filings. CEVA assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or information, which speak as of their respective dates.

CEVA, INC. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME  U.S. GAAP U.S. dollars in thousands, except per share data







Three months ended Six months ended

June 30, June 30,

2018 2017 2018 2017

Unaudited Revenues:







Licensing and related revenues $ 10,038 $ 10,337 $ 20,121 $ 19,872 Royalties 7,456 10,238 14,942 21,990









Total revenues 17,494 20,575 35,063 41,862









Cost of revenues 1,988 1,608 3,960 3,304









Gross profit 15,506 18,967 31,103 38,558









Operating expenses:







Research and development, net 11,843 10,509 23,859 20,382 Sales and marketing 3,399 3,427 6,575 6,365 General and administrative 2,833 2,552 5,787 4,677 Amortization of intangible assets 92 309 451 618









Total operating expenses 18,167 16,797 36,672 32,042









Operating income (loss) (2,661) 2,170 (5,569) 6,516 Financial income, net 777 755 1,704 1,326









Income (loss) before taxes on income (1,884) 2,925 (3,865) 7,842 Income taxes expense (benefit) 206 (983) 407 (173)









Net income (loss) $ (2,090) $ 3,908 $ (4,272) $ 8,015









Basic net income (loss) per share ($0.09) $0.18 ($0.19) $0.37 Diluted net income (loss) per share ($0.09) $0.17 ($0.19) $0.36 Weighted-average number of Common Stock used in computation of net income (loss) per share (in thousands):







Basic 22,129 21,712 22,139 21,556 Diluted 22,129 22,563 22,139 22,376



















Unaudited Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures U.S. Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts







Three months ended Six months ended

June 30 June 30

2018 2017 2018 2017

Unaudited









GAAP net income (loss) ($2,090) $3,908 ($4,272) $8,015 Equity-based compensation expense included in cost of revenue 168 114 325 205 Equity-based compensation expense included in research and development expenses 1,359 972 2,628 1,843 Equity-based compensation expense included in sales and marketing expenses 423 370 877 659 Equity-based compensation expense included in general and administrative expenses 895 722 1,786 1,420 Income tax benefit related to equity-based compensation expenses (153) (69) (282) (184) Amortization of intangible assets related to RivieraWaves transaction and in 2018 NB-Iot technologies 275 309 634 618 Non-GAAP net income $877 $6,326 $1,696 $12,576











GAAP weighted-average number of Common Stock used in computation of diluted net income (loss) per share (in thousands) 22,129 22,563 22,139 22,376









Weighted-average number of shares related to outstanding stock-based awards (in thousands) 903 269 935 315 Weighted-average number of Common Stock used in computation of diluted earnings per share, excluding the above (in thousands ) 23,032 22,832 23,074 22,691









GAAP diluted earnings (loss) per share ($0.09) $0.17 ($0.19) $0.36 Equity-based compensation expense, net of taxes $0.12 $0.10 $0.23 $0.16 Amortization of intangible assets related to RivieraWaves transaction and in 2018 NB-IoT technologies $0.01 $0.01 $0.03 $0.03 Non-GAAP diluted earnings per share $0.04 $0.28 $0.07 $0.55

CEVA, INC. AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(U.S. Dollars in thousands)







June 30, December 31,

2018 2017 (*)

Unaudited Unaudited ASSETS



Current assets:



Cash and cash equivalents $ 10,700 $ 21,739 Marketable securities and short term bank deposits 114,995 117,096 Trade receivables 9,246 14,480 Accrued revenues 8,753 2,014 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 6,244 3,747 Total current assets 149,938 159,076 Long-term assets:



Bank deposits 47,134 44,518 Severance pay fund 9,022 8,910 Deferred tax assets 4,454 3,643 Property and equipment, net 8,100 6,926 Goodwill 46,612 46,612 Intangible assets, net 3,307 1,742 Other long term assets 6,250 5,385 Total assets $ 274,817 $ 276,812

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY





Current liabilities:



Trade payables $ 1,034 $ 392 Deferred revenues 2,717 4,399 Accrued expenses and other payables 17,099 18,004 Total current liabilities 20,850 22,795





Long-term liabilities:



Accrued severance pay 9,601 9,347 Total liabilities 30,451 32,142





Stockholders' equity:



Common stock: 22 22 Additional paid in-capital 219,333 217,417 Treasury stock (31,640) (26,056) Accumulated other comprehensive loss (1,417) (586) Retained earnings 58,068 53,873 Total stockholders' equity 244,366 244,670 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 274,817 $ 276,812



(*) Derived from audited financial statements

SOURCE CEVA, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.ceva-dsp.com


"To find a positive way to start a business, entrepreneurs need to assess the state of competition in the industry they are eyeing in addition to examining the feasibility of profiting from the value added by the product rather than the product itself," said Cheng Hao, founder of Xunlei Limited, one of China's leading cloud-based acceleration technology companies, who shared his insights into the ways entrepreneurs find an approach to entrepreneurship. "In the global market, Chinese entrepreneurs have identified a set of internet growth patterns that are more suited to user expectations," stated Grand View Capital founding partner Wei Haijun.

Dr. Tian Yuandong from Facebook's AI Lab noted, "Machine learning is now moving towards the mission of how to make creativity a fundamental component of the process." Boling Move Robotics CEO Zhang Meng gave a presentation on how to create a deep connection between robotics and AI.

Notably, Professor Wang, the chief scientist at the State Key Laboratory and one of the early pioneers in intelligent robotics, autonomous driving and intelligent transportation, shared his knowledge of intelligent science and intelligent industry through a combination of theory and cases.

The summit also invited several industry insiders, among them top executives at Pony.ai, Didi, AutoX and Roadstar.ai, to share their views on the hot topic of "autonomous driving".

Lingang International Innovation Center acts as the backbone of Shanghai's technology innovation platform, helping companies gain access to resources through collaborations with likeminded companies abroad as a vehicle for bringing in advanced technologies. Lingang Innovation Galaxy is the unit within Lingang Group responsible for executing on the group's strategy for industrial transformation and how that transformation will work hand in hand with China's urbanization policy. As a strong advocate for innovation in technology and intelligent urbanization, Lingang Innovation Galaxy has joined forces with Lingang International Innovation Center to promote the development of industry, innovation, technology and talent at home and abroad, especially in China and the US. Baoshan Innovation Galaxy, the venue for the summit, is the first joint project between Lingang Group and Baoshan District. The project's aim is to create a demonstration district for what a future city in China can look like when innovation in industry serves as a fundamental aspect of the urbanization process, through the provision of and access to a multi-disciplinary and multi-functional ecological platform for the development of technology innovators. By bringing in the valuable experience of Silicon Valley in technology innovation, the summit analyzed and provided solutions to the problems facing technology innovators today, while offering valuable experience and new ways of thinking to China's tech innovators of the future.

SOURCE Lingang International Innovation Center

Related Links

www.shlingang.com


"Tech Cool 35058 and 35037 are the result of our commitment to continuous innovation," said Duane Fudge, Senior Director  Product Portfolio, and Applications at Chemetall. "Innovation that is motivated by our customer-centric approach. This kind of customer focus strengthens our goal to be the global supplier of choice for the surface treatment industry."

Tech Cool 35058 is a unique premium machining fluid developed specifically for applications requiring superior micro-finish on ferrous alloys; low and high carbon steels, titanium, molybdenum and tough alloys. It is low foaming and specially formulated to run longer in high velocity central systems. The product offers excellent corrosion protection, contains no chlorine, sulfur, boron, or phosphorus compounds and is compatible with ferrous and aluminum alloys. The technology uses a unique blend of additives which delivers extended sump life. Tech Cool 35058 is recommended for use in most medium to heavy duty machining and grinding applications.

Tech Cool 35037 is a distinctive general-purpose machining and grinding fluid developed specifically for applications requiring efficient and economical performance on aluminum, and copper alloys. It is low foaming and designed to deliver superior finishes for aluminum drilling and tapping applications. The product offers excellent corrosion protection, extended sump life and contains no sulfur compounds. Its unique lubricity is activated by a chlorinated EP ingredient. Tech Cool 35037 is completely free of formaldehyde releasing biocides, and recommended for use in most general-purpose machining and grinding applications.

Both Tech Cool 35058 and 35037 exhibit enhanced hard water tolerance and increased emulsion stability. The in-service cleanliness of these products allows for long-term system life without the formation of heavy, tacky, water insoluble residues.

Chemetall will present the new Tech Cool products at IMTS 2018, September 10-15, 2018, in Chicago, IL, Booth # 432443.

About BASF's Coatings division

The Coatings division of BASF is a global expert in the development, production and marketing of innovative and sustainable automotive OEM and refinish coatings, decorative paints as well as applied surface treatments for metal, plastic and glass substrates in a wide range of industries. The portfolio is completed by the "Innovation Beyond Paint" program which aims at developing new markets and businesses. We create advanced performance solutions and drive performance, design and new applications to meet our partners' needs all over the world. BASF shares skills, knowledge and resources of interdisciplinary and global teams for the benefit of customers by operating a collaborative network of sites in Europe, North America, South America and Asia Pacific. In 2017, the Coatings division achieved global sales of about 3.97 billion.

Solutions beyond your imagination  Coatings by BASF. For more information about the Coatings division of BASF and its products, visit www.basf-coatings.com.

About BASF

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. The more than 115,000 employees in the BASF Group work on contributing to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio is organized into five segments: Chemicals, Performance Products, Functional Materials & Solutions, Agricultural Solutions and Oil & Gas. BASF generated sales of 64.5 billion in 2017. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (BAS). Further information at www.basf.com.

SOURCE Chemetall
LONDON, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Alternative asset manager Cheyne Capital Management (UK) LLP ("Cheyne Capital") today announced it has successfully reached its capacity limit of 600 million ($800 million) for Cheyne Real Estate Credit (CRECH) Fund V  Opportunistic ("CRECH V" or "the Fund"), bringing the net assets of Cheyne's Real Estate group to 2.3 billion ($3 billion).

"European real estate debt markets continue to be structurally inefficient. Regulatory pressures have reduced the lending volume and risk appetite of European banks, creating a sustained demand for non-bank lending", said Jonathan Lourie, CEO and Founder of Cheyne Capital. "At Cheyne, we seek to uncover attractive investment opportunities presented by dislocations and to identify the best ways of delivering their value to investors. Our Real Estate group has demonstrated a successful track record of doing this over the last ten years".

CRECH V is the fifth fund in Cheyne's real estate direct lending strategy, which launched in 2011 following on from the firm's real estate bond strategy in 2009. Over this period the team has deployed 2.3 billion of capital across 63 loans and had 1.3 billion of capital returned by borrowers to date.

CRECH V takes an opportunistic approach to the asset class, with an ability to invest across the capital structure. The Fund targets double-digit returns whilst maintaining an overarching focus on capital preservation. In the current environment, Cheyne's Real Estate group sees the best risk/return opportunities in senior lending to mid-market borrowers on value-add assets and also in core/core+ senior and mezzanine lending to large global institutional borrowers. All of the Fund's investments are in Western Europe.

Approximately 80% of the Fund's capital has already been deployed, with investments including a 155m senior loan to French luxury hotel operator, LOV Hotel Collection, a 105m whole loan to Quintain to fund the development of a residential and office building on the Wembley Park site, a 100m whole loan to fund the development of two bespoke residential schemes in central Manchester, and a 35m junior loan to SME regional housebuilder Larkfleet Homes.

Ravi Stickney, Head of Real Estate at Cheyne Capital said, "The closure of our fifth real estate lending fund and deployment of almost all of the capital is testament to the market's need for customised, non-bank lending solutions. Over the last nine years, I believe Cheyne's Real Estate group has established a reputation with borrowers for innovative credit solutions, dependability and timely delivery, which has led to many referrals and repeat business."

Media Enquiries

Prosek Partners

UK  [email protected]

+44 (0)20 3878 8560

US  [email protected]

+1 617.875.7223

About Cheyne Capital

Founded in 2000, Cheyne Capital is a London-based alternative investment fund manager. Cheyne is known for its innovative approach and has been early and successful at delivering value to investors from important dislocations in the market place. Today Cheyne is one of the largest providers of European Real Estate Debt and has developed an Investment-Grade & Crossover Corporate Credit programme that has generated net annualised returns of 15% since its inception in 2002. With an investment philosophy grounded in rigorous fundamental analysis, the firm's other areas of expertise are Strategic Value Credit, Social Property Impact and Equity-Linked investing.

Cheyne Capital Management (U.K.) LLP is authorised and regulated in the U.K. by the Financial Conduct Authority, and registered as an Investment Adviser in the U.S. by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

In real estate specifically, Cheyne has provided financing solutions since 2009 and now manages approximately $3 billion of assets across direct real estate lending, securitised European real estate debt and selective special situations. Cheyne seeks to provide specialised non-bank loans to borrowers in select European markets, with a flexible approach that enables it to invest into all parts of the capital structure.

SOURCE Cheyne Capital
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Cold Stone Creamery continues their 30th Anniversary celebration with continued growth of the brand. In 1988, Cold Stone Creamery opened its first location in Tempe, Arizona, and will be rolling out 30 new stores domestically and internationally this year.

Cold Stone Creamery has been an exciting franchise opportunity for the past 30 years. With nearly 1,000 stores domestically and several hundred more internationally, Cold Stone Creamery is a force to be reckoned with in the ice cream industry.

Cold Stone Creamery's franchisees range from small business owners to large franchise groups, showing the versatility of the brand. Cold Stone Creamery offers franchisees a vertical in-house structure which streamlines the process of running a franchise. All franchisor services - development, real estate, design and construction, training, operations, purchasing and supply chain, research and development, marketing and public relations - are offered to each franchisee, which helps result in faster and continued growth.

"At Cold Stone Creamery our goal is to deliver super premium ice cream day in and day out, and we know that can only be achieved by making franchisee support a top priority," said John Wuycheck, senior vice president of franchise development. "With our vertical in-house structure we are able to achieve this and at the same time steadily grow the overall brand each year."

In addition to the in-house services, Cold Stone Creamery also likes to work outside the box. Cold Stone Creamery collaborates with movie studios, such as Warner Bros., joining its ice cream marketing forces with major motion videos. This creates a fun way for the brand to reach new audiences and create more opportunities for growth.

As for ongoing expansion, the 30-year-old brand shows no signs of stopping its push to open more locations in new markets. As of June 2018, Cold Stone Creamery had awarded more than 15 new stores across the nation. Furthermore, Cold Stone Creamery is projected to add 30 new locations this year, with the potential to grow to even more.

Cold Stone Creamery looks to continue serving their super premium ice cream, to loyal and new customers alike, for many years to come.

Cold Stone Creamery Quick Points:

First stores opened in Arizona

Cold Stone Creamery began franchising in 1994

Currently, there is rapid growth in Texas and Southeast markets

and Southeast markets Cold Stone Creamery is the only frozen dessert brand to have an official Tastemaster with a PhD in Food Science.

About Cold Stone Creamery

Cold Stone Creamery delivers The Ultimate Ice Cream Experience through a community of franchisees who are passionate about ice cream. The secret recipe for smooth and creamy ice cream is handcrafted fresh daily in store, and then customized by combining a variety of mix-ins on a frozen granite stone. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Cold Stone Creamery is owned by parent company Kahala Brands, one of the fastest growing franchising companies in the world, with a portfolio of 27 quick-service restaurant concepts. The Cold Stone Creamery brand operates nearly 1,500 locations globally in approximately 30 countries worldwide.

For more information about Cold Stone Creamery, visit www.ColdStoneCreamery.com.

For more information about Kahala Brands, visit www.KahalaBrands.com.

2018 Kahala Franchising, L.L.C. All Rights Reserved. All referenced trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE Cold Stone Creamery

Related Links

http://www.coldstonecreamery.com


"The LoveHandle team was excited to be able to meet with our Congressman and we appreciate him taking the time to come to our facility," stated Mike Watts, CEO of LoveHandle. "We also appreciate his desire to help entrepreneurs within his district and within the United States."

During the visit Congressman Olson was able to see the production facility, meet the team of 30 plus employees as well as sit down with Watts, his father Dave, and son Ethan to see three generations of entrepreneurship in the Watts' family.

"It's always great to meet people who not only want to live the American dream but are actively seeking it out and instilling it in their families," Congressman Olson said. "The Watts family is a great example of striving for something more and there's no better place to do that than Texas. I will continue to work at the federal level to cut red tape and provide a strong environment for entrepreneurs to succeed."

About LoveHandle: The LoveHandle phone grip is an American made product manufactured in Texas. The LoveHandle phone grip was created by John Murphy as a way to keep his phone safe while taking photos on his honeymoon. Since then Murphy and Watts have partnered to bring LoveHandle's to anyone interested in keeping their phone safe. LoveHandle has been featured on Good Morning America, The View, HSN and more.

SOURCE LoveHandle
OKLAHOMA CITY, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Continental Resources, Inc. (NYSE: CLR) (The "Company") today announced that Franco-Nevada (NYSE & TSX: FNV) has agreed to pay approximately $220 million for a stake in a newly-formed minerals subsidiary. In accordance with the deal terms, the Company will receive the proceeds at closing, offsetting the majority of previously incurred capital expenditures. The amount to be received by the Company at closing is subject to adjustment under the terms of the transaction documents.

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120327/DA76602LOGO

In addition, the parties have also committed, subject to satisfaction of agreed upon development thresholds, to spend up to a combined $125 million per year over the next three years to acquire additional minerals through the newly-formed subsidiary. With a carry component on capital acquisition costs, the Company is to fund 20% of future mineral acquisitions. The Company will be entitled to between 25% and 50% of total revenues generated by the minerals subsidiary based upon performance relative to certain predetermined targets.

The Company subsidiary and Franco-Nevada have executed definitive documents evidencing the aforementioned divestiture and the formation of the strategic relationship, subject to customary closing conditions, to acquire minerals in the SCOOP and STACK plays of Oklahoma, primarily in areas operated by the Company. These areas offer prolific well results, excellent economics, proximity to infrastructure and future upside via stacked hydrocarbon-bearing horizons.

"We could not be more pleased to team up with a leading royalty corporation in Franco-Nevada, who has a vast understanding of the value of mineral ownership as evidenced by their long track-record of acquiring assets globally," said Harold Hamm, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "We are pleased to announce yet another growth vehicle to Continental within our core business, complementing our existing assets and capturing incremental value for Continental shareholders while also applying proceeds for further debt reduction."

"Collaborating with Continental to purchase minerals is a new business development opportunity for Franco-Nevada," stated David Harquail, Chief Executive Officer of Franco-Nevada. "We are pleased to be able to work with this best-in-class operator to further strengthen Franco-Nevada's overall portfolio."

RBC Capital Markets and Vinson & Elkins LLP acted as exclusive financial and legal advisors, respectively, to the Company.

About Continental Resources

Continental Resources (NYSE: CLR) is a top 10 independent oil producer in the U.S. Lower 48 and a leader in America's energy renaissance. Based in Oklahoma City, Continental is the largest leaseholder and the largest producer in the nation's premier oil field, the Bakken play of North Dakota and Montana. The Company also has significant positions in Oklahoma, including its SCOOP Woodford and SCOOP Springer discoveries and the STACK plays. With a focus on the exploration and production of oil, Continental has unlocked the technology and resources vital to American energy independence and our nation's leadership in the new world oil market. In 2018, the Company will celebrate 51 years of operations. For more information, please visit www.CLR.com.

About Franco-Nevada

Franco-Nevada Corporation (NYSE & TSX: FNV) is the leading gold-focused royalty and stream company with a current market capitalization of approximately $14 billion. Based in Toronto, Canada, Franco-Nevada targets to have 80% of its business in precious metals and up to 20% of its business in non-precious resources including oil & gas. Its business model provides investors with commodity price and exploration optionality while limiting exposure to many of the risks of operating companies. Franco-Nevada is the gold investment that works. For more information, please visit www.franco-nevada.com .

Investor Contact: Media Contact: Rory Sabino Kristin Thomas Vice President, Investor Relations Senior Vice President, Public Relations 405-234-9620 405-234-9480 [email protected] [email protected]



Lucy Guttenberger

Senior Investor Relations Associate

405-774-5878

[email protected]



SOURCE Continental Resources

Related Links

http://www.clr.com


| BY Ricki Green |

CB Exclusive  Australian Pork Limited has created a stir with the latest ad in its long-running, cheeky brand campaign, created by APLs long-serving agency partners Noble Brands Worldwide, but complaints to the Advertising Standards Bureau have already been successfully defended.

Says Peter Haydon, general manager of marketing, APL: We half expect to hear from a few wowsers every time we release a new brand ad. This one was no exception. But they were very quick off the mark this time. This new ad had an outstanding likability score in pre-testing, so thankfully the complaints have been dismissed and we get on with helping Aussie pig farmers selling even more pork.

The new ad is set inside the waiting room at a suburban doctors surgery where the focus is on an elderly man waiting patiently as his wife has her scheduled check-up. When his wife reappears, she paraphrases her doctors health advice  quite loudly, as hes a little hard of hearing  and tells him, The doctor says we should Pork more often. Later, we hear a voice-over explain what the doctors actual advice must have been in that Pork fillets are half the fat of beef fillets and a valuable source of iron.

Says Haydon: In recent times, the focus of Porks marketing and communication efforts has been on promoting the health and versatility of Pork which has been working extremely well for the brand. This new ad gets us back into some core brand work which has been much loved by consumers throughout the nine years its been running.

The controversy around the new ad has been brought to mainstream attention via Ray Hadley on 2GB and News Limited articles, who have used it as an example of how political correctness could be eating into the creative freedom of the advertising industry.

Says Monty Noble, ECD, Noble Brands: Both News Limited and 2GB had been questioning the recent updates to the Ad Standards Code and defending the creative freedom of our industry  which is wonderful. Ray brought up this latest Pork ad as an example of an ad that may be banned if the code continues to expand down the path its currently taking. While I dont really see that happening (as the Pork campaign is just a bit of tongue-in-cheek fun and wouldnt be impacted by the new by-laws anyway) it is a shame to think that we are constantly adding to the restrictions around Australian ads  given how easy-going we are as a nation. Perhaps we, as an industry, should be pushing back a bit harder ourselves rather than wait for media outlets to do it for us. Otherwise itll become harder to attract the best young talent to the industry and harder still to find clients willing to push boundaries.

The 30-second ad was directed by Luke Shanahan (whos first feature film, Rabbit, is due for release this month) and produced by Kim Kirby of Walter Ink with post-production by The Editors and sound by Audiobrien.

Client: Australian Pork Limited

General Manager of Marketing: Peter Haydon

Senior Brand Manager: Eunbi Lee

Marketing and Communication Manager: Mitch Edwards

Assistant Brand Manager: Melissa Johnson

Agency: Noble Brands Worldwide

Managing Director: Chris Pinnegar

Creative Team: Monty Noble, Greg Alder, Colin Sevitt

Production Manager: Andrew Baber

Production Company: Walter Ink

Director: Luke Shanahan (A Longshot Films)

Producer: Kim Kirby

DOP: Daniel Ardilley

Post Production: The Editors

Editor: Stuart Morley

Sound: Brad Grisaffe at Audiobrien
But in an ironic twist, this has left the country vulnerable, as its commanding presence within the global manufacturing production chain  as well as the demands of its burgeoning middle class  has come with a heavy footprint in commodity markets. China needs raw materials, the demand for which must necessarily be met through imports. With a general trade war comes the threat of supply constrictions and rising prices.

For metals markets, global trade has given Chinese businesses access to higher-quality raw material, as is the case with iron ore, where imports make up 87% of the country's consumption. As illustrated in the chart below, despite having proven reserves of over 7 billion tonnes of contained iron, poor quality ore grades mean that domestic supply cannot substitute for cheaper and better-quality material imported from Australia and elsewhere. Disincentivising domestic production also allows the Chinese government to address the nation's pollution epidemic: by taking steps such as reducing air pollutants from steel plants using lower quality raw materials, revoking mining licences for polluting and unprofitable iron ore mines or forbidding bauxite miners from using conventional mining processes such as the use of pneumatic drilling and dynamite, China was reducing smog levels at the expense of domestic supply; with demand nonetheless remaining strong, the supply gap would be increasingly bridged by imports in these sectors. That, at least, was the plan.

Read the full story: https://www.crugroup.com/knowledge-and-insights/insights/2018/china-s-commodity-vulnerability/

Read more about CRU: http://bit.ly/About_CRU

About CRU

CRU offers unrivalled business intelligence on the global metals, mining and fertilizer industries through market analysis, price assessments, consultancy and events.

Since our foundation by Robert Perlman in 1969, we have consistently invested in primary research and robust methodologies, and developed expert teams in key locations worldwide, including in hard-to-reach markets such as China.

CRU employs over 260 experts and has more than 10 offices around the world, in Europe, the Americas, China, Asia and Australia  our office in Beijing opened in 2004.

When facing critical business decisions, you can rely on our first-hand knowledge to give you a complete view of a commodity market. And you can engage with our experts directly, for the full picture and a personalised response.

CRU  big enough to deliver a high-quality service, small enough to care about all of our customers.

SOURCE CRU
NASHVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Cumberland Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: CPIX) announced today that it will release second quarter 2018 financial results after the market closes on Tuesday, August 14, 2018. A conference call and live Internet webcast will be held on Tuesday, August 14, 2018, at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss the results.

To participate in the call, please dial 877-303-1298 (for U.S. callers) or 253-237-1032 (for international callers). A rebroadcast of the teleconference will be available for one week and can be accessed by dialing 855-859-2056 (for U.S. callers) or 404-537-3406 (for international callers). The Conference ID for the rebroadcast is 6256649. The live webcast and rebroadcast can be accessed via Cumberland's website at http://investor.shareholder.com/cpix/events.cfm.

Cumberland Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the delivery of high-quality prescription brands to improve patient care. The Company develops, acquires, and commercializes brands for the hospital acute care, gastroenterology, and oncology market segments.

The Company's portfolio of FDA approved brands includes:

Acetadote  ( acetylcysteine ) Injection, for the treatment of acetaminophen poisoning;

( ) Injection, for the treatment of acetaminophen poisoning; Caldolor  ( ibuprofen ) Injection, for the treatment of pain and fever;

( ) Injection, for the treatment of pain and fever; Kristalose  ( lactulose ) for Oral Solution, a prescription laxative, for the treatment of chronic and acute constipation;

( ) for Oral Solution, a prescription laxative, for the treatment of chronic and acute constipation; Omeclamox  -Pak , ( omeprazole, clarithromycin, amoxicillin ) for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori ) infection and related duodenal ulcer disease;

, ( ) for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori ( ) infection and related duodenal ulcer disease; Vaprisol  ( conivaptan ) Injection, to raise serum sodium levels in hospitalized patients with euvolemic and hypervolemic hyponatremia;

( ) Injection, to raise serum sodium levels in hospitalized patients with euvolemic and hypervolemic hyponatremia; Ethyol  (amifostine) Injection, for the reduction of xerostomia (dry mouth) in patients undergoing post-operative radiation treatment for head and neck cancer and the renal toxicity associated with the administration of cisplatin in patients with advanced ovarian cancer;

Injection, for the reduction of xerostomia (dry mouth) in patients undergoing post-operative radiation treatment for head and neck cancer and the renal toxicity associated with the administration of cisplatin in patients with advanced ovarian cancer; Totect (dexrazoxane hydrochloride) Injection, for emergency oncology intervention, to treat the toxic effects of anthracycline chemotherapy in case of extravasation (drug leakage from the bloodstream into the tissues).

Cumberland's pipeline of product candidates includes:

Hepatoren  ( ifetroban ) Injection, a Phase II candidate for the treatment of critically ill patients suffering from liver and kidney failure associated with hepatorenal syndrome ("HRS");

( ) Injection, a Phase II candidate for the treatment of critically ill patients suffering from liver and kidney failure associated with hepatorenal syndrome ("HRS"); Boxaban  (ifetroban) Oral Capsules, a Phase II candidate for the treatment of asthma patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease ("AERD");

Oral Capsules, a Phase II candidate for the treatment of asthma patients with aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease ("AERD"); Vasculan  (ifetroban) Oral Capsules, a Phase II candidate for the treatment of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) form of autoimmune disease;

Oral Capsules, a Phase II candidate for the treatment of patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) form of autoimmune disease; Portaban  (ifetroban) Injection and Oral Capsules, a Phase II candidate for the treatment of patients with portal hypertension associated with liver disease;

Injection and Oral Capsules, a Phase II candidate for the treatment of patients with portal hypertension associated with liver disease; RediTrex (methotrexate) Injection, an approval submission candidate for the treatment of active rheumatoid, juvenile idiopathic and severe psoriatic arthritis, as well as severe disabling psoriasis.

For more information on Cumberland's approved products, including full prescribing information, please visit the individual product websites, links to which can be found on the Company's website www.cumberlandpharma.com.

SOURCE Cumberland Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Related Links

http://www.cumberlandpharma.com


DENVER and MUNICH, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Deutsche Finance Group (the "Company") announces the formation of Deutsche Finance America which will be based in Denver, CO and headed by longtime real estate executive Jason Lucas as a shareholder and partner. Deutsche Finance Group is a leading global financial services firm and institutional investment manager founded in 2005 and based in Munich. Today the Company has 1.5Bn in assets under management, comprised of 24,500 individual investors and six institutional investment mandates. Deutsche Finance America was set up to execute on direct real estate investments, which will complement the Company's successful indirect investment activities.

Dr. Sven Neubauer, CIO for Deutsche Finance Group commented, "The United States has always been a very interesting investment market for us and we think it will continue to offer attractive opportunities. This new platform will provide our investors with direct real estate investments through a company under joint control. I have known Jason for eight years and am excited to be partnering with a person of his caliber. His excellent track-record in growing platforms will enable us to fulfil the ambitious growth targets we have for the United States."

Lucas added, "I am thrilled to be joining forces with my longtime business associates and leading this newly formed company. Deutsche Finance Group has a stellar reputation in the marketplace and we plan to take advantage of the synergies that exist between all of the group companies." Lucas was most recently President of Amstar, a Denver-based real estate private equity company where he was employed for 11 years. He also held positions at Morgan Stanley and Broadreach Capital after graduating from Brown University.

Two weeks ago Deutsche Finance America closed on its first direct investment in the U.S. with the acquisition of more than 100,000 sq ft of vacant office space in the iconic "Gucci Building" at 685 Fifth Avenue with plans to redevelop the asset.

For further information please contact:

Deutsche Finance America LLC, Jason Lucas (Email: [email protected]), +1-720-252-2300

SOURCE Deutsche Finance Group
DATAVLT offers sophisticated business and marketing data analytics tools based on blockchain technology, that are secure, affordable and efficient for businesses of any size, allowing for speedier translation of data into insights. DVLT utility tokens will form part of the DATAVLT ecosystem of data analytics and will be beneficial for a number of reasons:

To track utility cycles

To optimise token cycles to ensure stability

To maintain overall sustainability of the ecosystem

Lead by the company's three co-founders, Michelle Yeo, Benny Low and Willy Wong, and supported by technical leads, Yuan Xun, Chief Blockchain Architect, and Akbar Ahmed, Lead Data Scientist, DATAVLT strives to help SMEs from across various competitive industries to thrive by building an information management and data analytics platform secured by the utility token DVLT and Blockchain. The ICO is supported by Christopher Bridges Law Corporation, a legal firm specializing in Fintech and ICO listings

DATAVLT have teamed up with the Singapore-based RegTech company Cynopsis, which specialises in anti-money laundering (AML), counter terrorism financing (CTF) and Know-Your-Customer (KYC) processes. These safety procedures are integral parts of the modern financial system, and ensure that blockchain technology is integrated into global governance systems.

Additionally, DATAVLT have been working diligently to update their backend, including aspects of the website and token wallet, with the token sale landing page to be opened to the public one week before the launch on 13 August 2018.

Funds raised by the ICO will be allocated across business operations, development, research & development, marketing, and assets:

DATAVLT have garnered some attention to date, with a buzzing community on Telegram, as well as excitement building across a number of cryptocurrency websites including Altcoin News, Tokendesk, Coinlist and Cointelligence to name but a few, as well as Yahoo Finance, Finanzen Germany, New Delhi Times, Markets Insider and Technode. DATAVLT has also been actively participating at leading Blockchain and tech startup events such as Blockshow Berlin, Echelon Asia Summit, and numerous grassroots events around Asia.

DATAVLT will be providing a more detailed schedule of the public sale in upcoming digests via its website, including token swap information and incentives for early investors. For further details of DATAVLT's offering, including the full whitepaper and executive biographies, please refer to www.datavlt.com

About DATAVLT

DATAVLT is an agile, innovative, on-demand, data analytics platform, secured by Blockchain technology, that has been designed to provide users with integrated and correlated insights. Backed by artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities, this platform empowers enterprises to make meaningful sense of big data and scale cost efficiently. Essentially, DATAVLT is an end-to-end data/information management platform. Contact us at datavlt.com

Logo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20180607/2154400-1LOGO

SOURCE DATAVLT

Related Links

http://www.datavlt.com


ISLANDIA, N.Y., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The votes are in, and Rana A. from Panama City, Florida, has been named the winner of the Entenmann's Chief Donut Officer Contest. In addition to the coveted honorary title, she will bring home $5,000, a year's supply of donuts and other sweet prizes.

"I truly am honored to be Entenmann's first Chief Donut Officer," said Rana. "To be associated with such a renowned brand that offers an incredible variety of donuts is an honor, and I will wear this title proudly."

Entenmann's Chief Donut Officer Contest launched in timing with National Donut Day in June in search of the person most deserving of the title. Donut devotees were asked to share their love for Entenmann's donuts and ideas for product innovation. Five finalists were chosen and asked to submit video testimonials about why they deserved the honorary title, and consumers were called upon to weigh in on the individual they felt was most suitable for the role.

"The first-ever Chief Donut Officer Contest received thousands of submissions from our loyal fans across the country, and picking a winner was not a simple task!" said Jason Amar, Director of Marketing at Entenmann's. "Rana embodies the passion of a true Entenmann's and donut fan, and we're thrilled to have her as our first-ever honorary Chief Donut Officer."

Entenmann's got its start 120 years ago in Brooklyn, New York, and today, the brand produces more than one billion donuts annually. In fact, Entenmann's has made more than 15 billion donuts, which, if laid end-to-end, would wrap around the earth more than 30 times.

For more information about Entenmann's Chief Donut Officer Contest, please visit www.chiefdonutofficer.com.

About Entenmann's Bakery

Entenmann's history dates back 120 years to 1898 when William Entenmann opened his first bakery in Brooklyn, New York. By the 1960s the company was selling delicious donuts throughout the New York metropolitan area; by the 1970s it began selling nationwide. Today, Entenmann's markets over 100 different baked goods in the U.S., producing more than one billion donuts annually  one of which is the #1-best-selling classic Entenmann's Rich Frosted Donut introduced in 1973.

About Bimbo Bakeries USA

Bimbo Bakeries USA (BBU), headquartered in Horsham, PA, is the nation's leading baking company providing the highest quality baked goods at a great value to customers and consumers. This includes well-known brand Entenmann's, producer of top quality donuts and cakes since 1898. Our team of 22,000 U.S. associates operates more than 60 manufacturing locations in the United States. Over 11,000 distribution routes deliver our leading brands such as Arnold, Bimbo, Boboli, Brownberry, Entenmann's, Freihofer's, Heiner's, Marinela, Mrs Baird's, Nature's Harvest, Oroweat, Sara Lee, Stroehmann, Thomas', and Tia Rosa. BBU is owned by Mexico's Grupo Bimbo, S.A.B de C.V., the world's largest baking company with operations in 22 countries.

SOURCE Entenmanns
MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Squigl, LLC, developer of artificial intelligence (AI)-video animation software that seamlessly transforms text into animated presentations, announced that it signed a distribution agreement with Washington DC-based ERP Solution provider company Spirawn to distribute Squigl in certain countries in the Middle East and North Africa.

Squigl's software utilizes AI technology to transform text-based messages into highly effective animated content. Until now, such advanced platforms were too costly and complicated for most startups to adopt. Squigl harnesses AI to focus educational and marketing materials on what neuroscience defines as the most effective rules for stimulating the attention and maximizing retention of a video's intended message among audiences.

Using a simple, intuitive interface, Squigl transforms users' textual messages into animated videos that engage target audiences and learners with verifiably improved attention and retention. Squigl supports multiple languages including those spoken in MENA.

According to Spirawn CEO, Sheham Jaradat, the collaboration with Squigl allows Spirawn to better meet the needs of its client companies and government entities to leverage the power of AI. "Our customers have been asking us about developments in the emerging science of digital learning to engage their employees and customers," said Mr. Jaradat.

Squigl CEO Ahmad Roowala said that the decision to collaborate with Spirawn is fueled by a mutual belief in the value of combining the strategic relationship Spirawn holds as both a service provider and key advisor in the areas of technology and innovation. "We are delighted to be partnering with Spirawn to bring the latest in AI-based learning and sales & marketing technologies to organizations around the globe."

To learn more, visit the Squigl website, email Ahmad Roowala at [email protected] or Sheham Jaradat at [email protected].

About Squigl:

Squigl, LLC offers a software as a service (SaaS) platform that utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) technology to allow anyone to transform their corporate messages into high-quality, animated video presentations in minutes. Squigl's AI-powered software is built on the science of learning. Squigl applies an evidence-based approach to developing marketing and educational materials based on what neuroscience defines as the most effective rules for maximum audience attention and retention.

About Spirawn:

Spirawn is a ERP solutions provider founded by Sheham Jaradat and an international team of entrepreneurial and tech leaders to bring the latest in Oracle cloud solutions to various Government and Fortune 5000 clients.

Media Contact:

Ahmad Roowala

[email protected]

612-859-0830

SOURCE Squigl

Related Links

http://squiglit.com


WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Evolent Health, Inc. (NYSE: EVH), a company providing an integrated value-based care platform to the nation's leading health systems and physician organizations, today announced financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2018.

Highlights from the second quarter of 2018 announcement include (all comparisons are to the quarter ended June 30, 2017):

GAAP revenue of $144.3 million , an increase of 34.8%; Adjusted Revenue of $144.5 million , an increase of 34.7%

, an increase of 34.8%; Adjusted Revenue of , an increase of 34.7% Net income (loss) attributable to Evolent Health, Inc. of $(9.9) million , Adjusted EBITDA of $4.9 million

, Adjusted EBITDA of Lives on platform of approximately 3.1 million, an increase of 10.9%

New partnership agreement with Torrance Health IPA (THIPA) and Torrance Memorial Integrated Physicians (TMIP) in California . Evolent is providing Torrance with its Identifi SM population health performance management platform and Risk Adjustment solution to help enhance performance across Torrance's provider network of 500 providers in the Los Angeles metro area. THIPA and TMIP collectively manage more than 20,000 Medicare Advantage and Next Generation ACO lives.

. Evolent is providing with its Identifi population health performance management platform and Risk Adjustment solution to help enhance performance across provider network of 500 providers in the metro area. THIPA and TMIP collectively manage more than 20,000 Medicare Advantage and Next Generation ACO lives. In June, Evolent announced Medicaid partnerships with Baptist Health Care and Nicklaus Children's Health System in Florida . The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) notified Baptist Health Care and Nicklaus Children's Health System of its intent to award their affiliates with contracts to provide physical and behavioral health care services through Florida's Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) program. Including Lee Health, Evolent is now collaborating with three health systems to launch and operate Medicaid plans in five regions of Florida that cover more than 1 million eligible beneficiaries.

Frank Williams, Chief Executive Officer of Evolent Health, Inc., commented, "We are quite pleased with our second quarter results as we achieved our key strategic, operational and financial objectives. We continue to see considerable interest from provider organizations looking to move substantially into value-based care as well as existing risk-bearing organizations focused on improving performance."

Mr. Williams commented, "We also continue to see considerable wins and momentum in the Medicaid market. Establishing a major presence in key markets such as Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Pensacola and Tallahassee creates a strong, long-term growth opportunity for Evolent in Florida and beyond."

Mr. Williams added, "We are excited to announce our partnership with Torrance Health IPA and Torrance Memorial Integrated Physicians in California. Torrance has a strong reputation and highly engaged physicians across its network, and we look forward to elevating the performance of its Medicare risk business."

Mr. Williams concluded, "Lastly, we are pleased to report that our 2018 Next Generation ACO cohort is operational and continues to perform well from both a cost and clinical quality standpoint. Our continued ability to identify and codify best practices across the network is driving meaningful improvements in health outcomes for patients across multiple regions and serves as a model for our Medicare Center of Excellence."

Financial Results of Evolent Health, Inc.

In our earnings releases, prepared remarks, conference calls, slide presentations and webcasts, we may use or discuss non-GAAP financial measures. We are not providing forward looking guidance for GAAP reported financial measures in the "Business Outlook" section below. A reconciliation of forward looking non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure is provided in the "Guidance Reconciliation" table below. Definitions of the non-GAAP financial measures, as well as reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are included in this earnings release. See "Financial Statement Presentation" and "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" for more information.

Reported Results

Evolent Health, Inc. reported the following United States of America generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") results:

Total revenue of $144.3 million and $107.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 34.8%; Services revenue of $125.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018, before intersegment eliminations of $3.6 million ; and True Health premiums revenue of $22.9 million before intersegment eliminations of $0.2 million .

and for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 34.8%; Cost of revenue of $69.0 million and $68.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 1.5%;

and for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 1.5%; Claims expenses of $18.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018;

for the three months ended June 30, 2018; Selling, general and administrative expenses of $57.4 million and $51.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 12.4%;

and for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 12.4%; Net income (loss) attributable to Evolent Health, Inc. of $(9.9) million and $(16.9) million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively;

and for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively; Earnings (loss) available to common shareholders, basic and diluted, of $(9.9) million and $(16.9) million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively; and

and for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively; and Earnings (loss) available to common shareholders, per basic and diluted share, of $(0.13) and $(0.28) for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Total cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2018, were $198.0 million.

Adjusted Results

Adjusted Revenue of $144.5 million and $107.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 34.7%; Adjusted Services Revenue of $125.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018, before intersegment eliminations of $3.6 million ; and True Health premiums revenue of $22.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018, before intersegment eliminations of $0.2 million .

and for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 34.7%; Adjusted Cost of Revenue of $68.2 million and $66.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 3.1%;

and for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 3.1%; Claims expenses of $18.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018;

for the three months ended June 30, 2018; Adjusted Selling, General and Administrative Expenses of $53.0 million and $44.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 18.5%;

and for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, an increase of 18.5%; Adjusted EBITDA of $4.9 million and $(3.6) million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively; Services Adjusted EBITDA of $5.6 million for three months ended June 30, 2018; and True Health Adjusted EBITDA of $(0.8) million for the three months ended June 30, 2018.

and for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively; Adjusted Earnings (Loss) Available for Class A and Class B Shareholders of $(2.3) million and $(8.8) million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively; and

and for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively; and Adjusted Earnings (Loss) per Share Available for Class A and Class B Shareholders of $(0.03) and $(0.13) for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Business Outlook

For the full year 2018, Adjusted Revenue is expected to be in the range of approximately $570.0 million to $585.0 million. We are making two small adjustments to full year guidance: reducing the high end of the range in the Services business by $5.0 million and adjusting the intersegment eliminations to $15.0 million from $20.0 million. The components of Adjusted Revenue include Adjusted Services Revenue, which is forecasted to be approximately $495.0 million to $505.0 million, and True Health premiums revenue, which is forecasted to be approximately $90.0 million to $95.0 million; intersegment eliminations are forecasted to be approximately $(15.0) million for the full year. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of approximately $18.0 million to $23.0 million.

For the three months ended September 30, 2018, Adjusted Revenue is expected to be in the range of approximately $140.0 million to $144.0 million. The components of Adjusted Revenue include Adjusted Services Revenue, which is forecasted to be approximately $122.0 million to $124.0 million, and True Health premiums revenue, which is forecasted to be approximately $22.0 million to $24.0 million; intersegment eliminations are forecasted to be approximately $(4.0) million for the quarter. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of approximately $3.0 million to $5.0 million.

This "Business Outlook" section contains forward-looking statements, and actual results may differ materially. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from our current expectations are set forth in "Forward Looking Statements - Cautionary Language" and Evolent Health, Inc.'s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC").

Web and Conference Call Information

As previously announced, Evolent Health, Inc. will hold a conference call to discuss its second quarter performance this evening, August 7, 2018, at 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time. The conference call will be available via live webcast on the Company's Investor Relations website at http://ir.evolenthealth.com. To participate by telephone, dial 855.940.9467 or 412.317.6034 for international callers, and ask to join the Evolent Health call. Participants are advised to dial in at least fifteen minutes prior to the call to register. The call will be archived on the company's website for one week and will be available beginning later this evening. Evolent Health invites all interested parties to attend the conference call.

About Evolent Health, Inc.

Evolent Health, Inc.'s Services segment focuses on partnering with leading provider organizations to achieve superior clinical and financial results in value-based care. With a provider heritage and over 20 years of health plan administration experience, Evolent operates in more than 30 U.S. health care markets, actively managing care across Medicare, Medicaid, commercial and self-funded adult and pediatric populations. With the experience to drive change, Evolent confidently stands by a commitment to achieve results. Our True Health segment consists of a commercial health plan we operate in New Mexico that focuses on small and large businesses. For more information, visit www.evolenthealth.com.

Financial Statement Presentation

Evolent Health, Inc. is a holding company and its principal asset is all of the Class A common units in its operating subsidiary, Evolent Health LLC, which has owned all of our operating assets and substantially all of our business since inception. The financial results of Evolent Health LLC are consolidated in the financial statements of Evolent Health, Inc.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In addition to disclosing financial results that are determined in accordance with GAAP, we present and discuss Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Services Revenue, Adjusted Transformation Services Revenue, Adjusted Platform and Operations Services Revenue, Adjusted Cost of Revenue, Adjusted Selling, General and Administrative Expenses, Adjusted Depreciation and Amortization Expenses, Adjusted Operating Income (Loss), Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Earnings (Loss) Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders, Adjusted Earnings (Loss) per Share Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders and Adjusted Weighted-Average Class A and Class B Shares, which are all non-GAAP financial measures, as supplemental measures to help investors evaluate our fundamental operational performance.

Adjusted Transformation Services Revenue and Adjusted Platform and Operations Services Revenue are defined as transformation services revenue and platform and operations services revenue, respectively, before the effect of intersegment eliminations and adjusted to exclude the impact of purchase accounting adjustments. In addition, the company's Adjusted Transformation Services Revenue and Adjusted Platform and Operations Services Revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2018, include a $4.5 million adjustment related to revenue that was contracted for prior to 2018 and that was properly excluded from revenue in our 2017 results under the revenue recognition rules then in effect under Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 605. On January 1, 2018, we adopted the new revenue recognition rules under ASC 606 using the modified retrospective method, which required us to include this $4.5 million as part of the cumulative transition adjustment to beginning retained earnings as of January 1, 2018. Under ASC 605, and based on proportionate performance revenue recognition, we would have recognized an additional $4.5 million in revenue during 2018, primarily within our Adjusted Transformation Services Revenue. The company has therefore included this revenue, and related profit, in its adjusted results for the six months ended June 30, 2018, as they had not been previously reported prior to 2018 and the contracts are expected to be completed within 2018. This is a one-time adjustment and it will not reoccur in future periods.

Adjusted Services Revenue is defined as the sum of Adjusted Transformation Revenue and Adjusted Platform and Operations Revenue. Adjusted Revenue is defined as the sum of Adjusted Services Revenue and True Health premiums revenue, less relevant intersegment eliminations. Management uses Adjusted Revenue, Adjusted Services Revenue, Adjusted Transformation Services Revenue and Adjusted Platform and Operations Services Revenue as supplemental performance measures because they reflect a complete view of the operational results. The measures are also useful to investors because they reflect the full view of our operational performance in line with how we generate our long term forecasts.

Adjusted Cost of Revenue and Adjusted Selling, General and Administrative Expenses are defined as cost of revenue and selling, general and administrative expenses, respectively, adjusted to exclude the impact of stock-based compensation expenses, severance costs, amortization of contract cost assets recorded as a result of a one-time ASC 606 transition adjustment, transaction costs related to acquisitions and business combinations, securities offerings and other one-time adjustments. Management uses Adjusted Cost of Revenue and Adjusted Selling, General and Administrative Expenses as supplemental performance measures, which are also useful to investors, because they facilitate an understanding of our long term operational costs while removing the effect of costs that are one-time (e.g. transaction costs) and non-cash (e.g. stock-based compensation expenses) in nature. Additionally, these supplemental performance measures facilitate understanding a breakdown of our Adjusted Total Operating Expenses.

Adjusted Depreciation and Amortization Expenses is defined as depreciation and amortization expenses adjusted to exclude the impact of amortization expenses related to intangible assets acquired through acquisitions and business combinations. Management uses Adjusted Depreciation and Amortization Expenses as a supplemental performance measure because it reflects a complete view of the operational results. The measure is also useful to investors because it facilitates understanding a breakdown of our Adjusted Total Operating Expenses.

Adjusted Total Operating Expenses is defined as the sum of Adjusted Cost of Revenue, Adjusted Selling, General and Administrative Expenses and Adjusted Depreciation and Amortization Expenses, and reflects the adjustments made in those non-GAAP measures. Adjusted Total Operating Expenses is adjusted to exclude the impact of one-time adjustments, such as goodwill impairment, severance costs, and items arising from acquisitions and business combinations, such as changes in fair value of contingent consideration and indemnification assets.

Adjusted Operating Income (Loss) is defined as Adjusted Revenue less Adjusted Total Operating Expenses, and reflects the adjustments made in those non-GAAP measures.

Adjusted EBITDA is the sum of Services Adjusted EBITDA and True Health Adjusted EBITDA and is defined as EBITDA (net income (loss) attributable to Evolent Health, Inc. before interest income, interest expense, (provision) benefit for income taxes, depreciation and amortization expenses), adjusted to exclude, changes in fair value of contingent consideration and indemnification assets, income (loss) from equity affiliates, other income (expense), net, net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests, purchase accounting adjustments, stock-based compensation expenses, severance costs, amortization of contract cost assets recorded as a result of a one-time ASC 606 transition adjustment, transaction costs related to acquisitions and business combinations and other one-time adjustments (which for the six months ended June 30, 2018, includes the ASC 606 transition adjustment described above). Management uses Adjusted EBITDA as a supplemental performance measure because the removal of transaction costs, one-time or non-cash items (e.g. depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation expenses) allows us to focus on operational performance. We believe that this measure is also useful to investors because it allows further insight into the period over period operational performance in a manner that is comparable to other organizations in our industry and in the market in general.

Adjusted Earnings (Loss) Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders is defined as earnings (loss) available to common shareholders adjusted to exclude, income (loss) from equity affiliates, (provision) benefit for income taxes, changes in fair value of contingent consideration and indemnification assets, net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests, purchase accounting adjustments, stock-based compensation expenses, severance costs, amortization of contract cost assets recorded as a result of a one-time ASC 606 transition adjustment, transaction costs related to acquisitions and business combinations and other one-time adjustments (which for the six months ended June 30, 2018, includes the ASC transition adjustment described above).

Adjusted Weighted-Average Class A and Class B Shares is defined as weighted average common shares (diluted) adjusted to include, in periods of net loss, the dilutive or potentially dilutive effect of the assumed conversion of Class B common shares to Class A common shares.

Adjusted Earnings (Loss) per Share Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders is defined as Adjusted Earnings (Loss) Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders divided by Adjusted Weighted-Average Class A and Class B Shares, and reflects the adjustments made in those non-GAAP measures.

Management uses Adjusted Earnings (Loss) Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders, Adjusted Weighted-Average Class A and Class B Shares and Adjusted Earnings (Loss) per Share Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders because these performance measures represent our core operating performance distributed amongst all of our investors which is not represented by the GAAP results across time due to our complex equity structure. We believe that these measures are also useful to investors for the same reason.

These adjusted measures do not represent and should not be considered as alternatives to GAAP measurements, and our calculations thereof may not be comparable to similarly entitled measures reported by other companies. A reconciliation of these adjusted measures to their most comparable GAAP financial measures is presented in the tables below. We believe these measures are useful across time in evaluating our fundamental core operating performance.

Evolent Health, Inc. Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (unaudited) (in thousands, except per share data) For the Three For the Six Months Ended Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2018 2017 2018 2017 Revenue Transformation services $ 8,215 $ 5,361 $ 14,720 $ 15,596 Platform and operations services 113,346 101,710 223,164 197,714 Premiums 22,737  46,128  Total revenue 144,298 107,071 284,012 213,310 Expenses Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expenses presented separately below) 69,003 67,994 140,978 135,523 Claims expenses 18,428  35,177  Selling, general and administrative expenses 57,403 51,090 112,929 104,641 Depreciation and amortization expenses 10,034 6,904 19,530 13,519 Change in fair value of contingent consideration and indemnification asset (1,604) 200 (1,504) 200 Total operating expenses 153,264 126,188 307,110 253,883 Operating income (loss) (8,966) (19,117) (23,098) (40,573) Interest income 878 218 1,950 403 Interest expense (855) (947) (1,708) (1,901) Income (loss) from equity affiliates (1,275) (555) (1,406) (1,077) Other Income (expense), net 78 3 60 5 Income (loss) before income taxes and non-controlling interests (10,140) (20,398) (24,202) (43,143) Provision (benefit) for income taxes (109) (700) (106) (295) Net income (loss) (10,031) (19,698) (24,096) (42,848) Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests (115) (2,793) (554) (7,930) Net income (loss) attributable to Evolent Health, Inc. $ (9,916) $ (16,905) $ (23,542) $ (34,918) Earnings (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders Basic $ (9,916) $ (16,905) $ (23,542) $ (34,918) Diluted (9,916) (16,905) (23,542) (34,918) Earnings (Loss) per Common Share Basic $ (0.13) $ (0.28) $ (0.31) $ (0.62) Diluted (0.13) (0.28) (0.31) (0.62) Weighted-Average Common Shares Outstanding Basic 77,209 59,478 76,297 56,057 Diluted 77,209 59,478 76,297 56,057 Comprehensive income (loss) Net income (loss) $ (10,031) $ (19,698) $ (24,096) $ (42,848) Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes, related to: Foreign currency translation adjustment (148)  (148)  Total comprehensive income (loss) (10,179) (19,698) (24,244) (42,848) Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests (115) (2,793) (554) (7,930) Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Evolent Health, Inc. $ (10,064) $ (16,905) $ (23,690) $ (34,918)

Evolent Health, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited) (in thousands) As of As of June 30, December 31, 2018 2017 Cash and cash equivalents $ 197,983 $ 238,433 Restricted cash 56,342 56,930 Restricted investments 712 8,755 Note receivable 12,000 20,000 Total current assets 353,254 378,182 Intangible assets, net 236,819 241,261 Goodwill 635,282 628,186 Total assets 1,321,620 1,312,697 Long-term debt, net of discount 121,853 121,394 Total liabilities 270,239 266,391 Total shareholders' equity (deficit) attributable to Evolent Health, Inc. 1,041,233 1,010,879 Non-controlling interests 10,148 35,427 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity (deficit) 1,321,620 1,312,697

Evolent Health, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited) (in thousands) For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 2017 Net cash and restricted cash provided by (used in) operating activities $ (18,004) $ (37,812) Net cash and restricted cash provided by (used in) investing activities (19,376) 1,339 Net cash and restricted cash provided by (used in) financing activities (3,665) (19,612) Effect of exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash 7  Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash (41,038) (56,085) Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash as of beginning-of-period 295,363 170,029 Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash as of end-of-period $ 254,325 $ 113,944

Evolent Health, Inc. Adjusted Results of Operations (unaudited) (in thousands) For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2018 For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2017 Evolent Health, Inc. Evolent Health, Inc. Evolent Evolent Evolent Evolent as Reported as Adjusted Health, Inc. Health, Inc. Health, Inc. Health, Inc. Change Over Prior Period Change Over Prior Period as Reported Adjustments as Adjusted as Reported Adjustments as Adjusted $ % $ % Revenue Transformation services (1) $ 8,215 $  $ 8,215 $ 5,361 $  $ 5,361 $ 2,854 53.2 % $ 2,854 53.2 % Platform and operations services (1) 113,346 216 113,562 101,710 244 101,954 11,636 11.4 % 11,608 11.4 % Premiums 22,737  22,737    22,737  % 22,737  % Total revenue 144,298 216 144,514 107,071 244 107,315 37,227 34.8 % 37,199 34.7 % Expenses Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expenses presented separately below) (2) 69,003 (815) 68,188 67,994 (1,837) 66,157 1,009 1.5 % 2,031 3.1 % Claims expenses 18,428  18,428    18,428  % 18,428  % Selling, general and administrative expenses (3) 57,403 (4,390) 53,013 51,090 (6,370) 44,720 6,313 12.4 % 8,293 18.5 % Depreciation and amortization expenses (4) 10,034 (2,769) 7,265 6,904 (2,383) 4,521 3,130 45.3 % 2,744 60.7 % Change in fair value of contingent consideration and indemnification asset (5) (1,604) 1,604  200 (200)  (1,804) (902.0)%   % Total operating expenses 153,264 (6,370) 146,894 126,188 (10,790) 115,398 27,076 21.5 % 31,496 27.3 % Operating income (loss) $ (8,966) $ 6,586 $ (2,380) $ (19,117) $ 11,034 $ (8,083) $ 10,151 53.1 % $ 5,703 70.6 % Total operating expenses as a percentage of total revenue 106.2 % 101.6 % 117.9 % 107.5 %

(1) Adjustments to platform and operations services revenue include deferred revenue purchase accounting adjustments of approximately $0.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, resulting from our acquisitions and business combinations. (2) Adjustments to cost of revenue include approximately $0.4 million in stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The adjustments also include approximately $0.5 million related to the amortization of contract cost assets recorded as a result of the one-time ASC 606 transition adjustment for the three months ended June 30, 2018. Adjustments also include transaction costs of approximately $1.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017, resulting from acquisitions and business combinations. (3) Adjustments to selling, general and administrative expenses include $4.3 million and $5.0 million in stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Adjustments also include transaction costs of $0.1 million and $1.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, resulting from acquisitions and business combinations and costs relating to our securities offerings. The adjustments also include less than $0.1 million related to the amortization of contract cost assets recorded as a result of the one time ASC 606 transition adjustment and $0.1 million of one-time severance costs for the three months ended June 30, 2018. (4) Adjustments to depreciation and amortization expenses of approximately $2.8 million and $2.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, relate to amortization of intangible assets acquired via asset acquisition and business combinations. (5) The adjustment reverses the impact of changes in fair value of our contingent consideration and indemnification asset that were acquired through business combinations during 2016.

Evolent Health, Inc. Adjusted Results of Operations (unaudited) (in thousands) For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 Evolent Health, Inc. Evolent Health, Inc. Evolent Evolent Evolent Evolent as Reported as Adjusted Health, Inc. Health, Inc. Health, Inc. Health, Inc. Change Over Prior Period Change Over Prior Period as Reported Adjustments as Adjusted as Reported Adjustments as Adjusted $ % $ % Revenue Transformation services (1) $ 14,720 $ 3,655 $ 18,375 $ 15,596 $  $ 15,596 $ (876) (5.6)% $ 2,779 17.8 % Platform and operations services (1) 223,164 1,276 224,440 197,714 775 198,489 25,450 12.9 % 25,951 13.1 % Premiums 46,128  46,128    46,128  % 46,128  % Total revenue 284,012 4,931 288,943 213,310 775 214,085 70,702 33.1 % 74,858 35.0 % Expenses Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization expenses presented separately below) (2) 140,978 (2,451) 138,527 135,523 (2,860) 132,663 5,455 4.0 % 5,864 4.4 % Claims expenses 35,177  35,177    35,177  % 35,177  % Selling, general and administrative expenses (3) 112,929 (10,488) 102,441 104,641 (14,882) 89,759 8,288 7.9 % 12,682 14.1 % Depreciation and amortization expenses (4) 19,530 (5,405) 14,125 13,519 (4,708) 8,811 6,011 44.5 % 5,314 60.3 % Change in fair value of contingent consideration and indemnification asset (5) (1,504) 1,504  200 (200)  (1,704) (852.0)%   % Total operating expenses 307,110 (16,840) 290,270 253,883 (22,650) 231,233 53,227 21.0 % 59,037 25.5 % Operating income (loss) $ (23,098) $ 21,771 $ (1,327) $ (40,573) $ 23,425 $ (17,148) $ 17,475 43.1 % $ 15,821 92.3 % Total operating expenses as a percentage of total revenue 108.1 % 100.5 % 119.0 % 108.0 %

(1) Adjustments to transformation services revenue and platform and operations services revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2018, include approximately $3.7 million and $0.8 million, respectively, resulting from our transition adjustments related to the implementation of ASC 606. Adjustments to platform and operations services revenue also include deferred revenue purchase accounting adjustments of approximately $0.4 million and $0.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, resulting from our acquisitions and business combinations. (2) Adjustments to cost of revenue include $0.8 million and $0.7 million in stock-based compensation expense for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively. The adjustments also include $1.0 million related to the amortization of contract cost assets recorded as a result of the one-time ASC 606 transition adjustment and $0.7 million of one-time severance costs for the six months ended June 30, 2018. Adjustments also include transaction costs of approximately $2.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017, resulting from acquisitions and business combinations. (3) Adjustments to selling, general and administrative expenses include $7.8 million and $9.7 million in stock-based compensation expense for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Adjustments also include transaction costs of $1.8 million and $5.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, resulting from acquisitions and business combinations and costs relating to our securities offerings. The adjustments also include $0.1 million related to the amortization of contract cost assets recorded as a result of the one time ASC 606 transition adjustment and $0.8 million of one-time severance costs for the six months ended June 30, 2018. (4) Adjustments to depreciation and amortization expenses of approximately $5.4 million and $4.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, respectively, relate to amortization of intangible assets acquired via asset acquisition and business combinations. (5) The adjustment reverses the impact of changes in fair value of our contingent consideration and indemnification asset that were acquired through business combinations during 2016.

Evolent Health, Inc. Segment Results (unaudited) Intersegment Services True Health (1) Eliminations Consolidated Adjusted Revenue Three Months Ended June 30, 2018 Services: Adjusted Transformation Services $ 8,215 $  $  $ 8,215 Adjusted Platform and Operations Services 117,177  (3,615) 113,562 Adjusted Services Revenue 125,392  (3,615) 121,777 True Health: Premiums  22,939 (202) 22,737 Adjusted Revenue 125,392 22,939 (3,817) 144,514 Purchase accounting adjustments (2) (216)   (216) Total revenue $ 125,176 $ 22,939 $ (3,817) $ 144,298 Three Months Ended June 30, 2017 Services: Adjusted Transformation Services $ 5,361 $  $  $ 5,361 Adjusted Platform and Operations Services 101,954   101,954 Adjusted Services Revenue 107,315   107,315 Adjusted Revenue 107,315   107,315 Purchase accounting adjustments (2) (244)   (244) Total revenue $ 107,071 $  $  $ 107,071 Segments Services True Health (1) Total Three Months Ended June 30, 2018 Adjusted EBITDA $ 5,642 $ (758) 4,884 Three Months Ended June 30, 2017 Adjusted EBITDA (3,562)  (3,562)

(1) The True Health segment was created in January 2018. (2) Purchase accounting adjustments pertain to Adjusted Platform and Operations Services Revenue. There were no purchase accounting adjustments in relation to Adjusted Transformation Services Revenue or True Health premiums revenue.

Evolent Health, Inc. Segment Results (unaudited) Intersegment Services True Health (1) Eliminations Consolidated Adjusted Revenue Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 Services: Adjusted Transformation Services $ 18,375 $  $  $ 18,375 Adjusted Platform and Operations Services 231,852  (7,412) 224,440 Adjusted Services Revenue 250,227  (7,412) 242,815 True Health: Premiums  46,524 (396) 46,128 Adjusted Revenue 250,227 46,524 (7,808) 288,943 ASC 606 transition adjustment (2) (4,498)   (4,498) Purchase accounting adjustments (3) (433)   (433) Total revenue $ 245,296 $ 46,524 $ (7,808) $ 284,012 Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 Services: Adjusted Transformation Services $ 15,596 $  $  $ 15,596 Adjusted Platform and Operations Services 198,489   198,489 Adjusted Services Revenue 214,085   214,085 Adjusted Revenue 214,085   214,085 Purchase accounting adjustments (3) (775)   (775) Total revenue $ 213,310 $  $  $ 213,310 Segments Services True Health (1) Total Six Months Ended June 30, 2018 Adjusted EBITDA $ 12,608 $ 189 12,797 Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 Adjusted EBITDA (8,337)  (8,337)

(1) The True Health segment was created in January 2018. (2) Adjustment to Adjusted Transformation Services Revenue was approximately $3.7 million and the adjustment to Adjusted Platform and Operations Services Revenue was approximately $0.8 million. See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" above for more information on adjustments pertaining to the implementation of ASC 606. (3) Purchase accounting adjustments pertain to Adjusted Platform and Operations Services Revenue. There were no purchase accounting adjustments in relation to Adjusted Transformation Services Revenue or True Health premiums revenue.

Evolent Health, Inc. Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Evolent Health, Inc. (unaudited) (in thousands) For the Three For the Six Months Ended Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2018 2017 2018 2017 Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Evolent Health, Inc. $ (9,916) $ (16,905) $ (23,542) $ (34,918) Less: Interest income 878 218 1,950 403 Interest expense (855) (947) (1,708) (1,901) (Provision) benefit for income taxes 109 700 106 295 Depreciation and amortization expenses (10,034) (6,904) (19,530) (13,519) EBITDA (14) (9,972) (4,360) (20,196) Less: Income (loss) from equity affiliates (1,275) (555) (1,406) (1,077) Change in fair value of contingent consideration and indemnification asset 1,604 (200) 1,504 (200) Other income (expense), net 78 3 60 5 Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests 115 2,793 554 7,930 ASC 606 transition adjustments   (4,498)  Purchase accounting adjustments (216) (244) (433) (775) Stock-based compensation expense (4,718) (5,360) (8,513) (10,464) Severance costs 105  (1,489)  Amortization of contract cost assets (578)  (1,139)  Transaction costs (14) (2,847) (1,798) (7,278) Adjusted EBITDA $ 4,885 $ (3,562) $ 12,798 $ (8,337)

Evolent Health, Inc. Reconciliation of Adjusted Earnings (Loss) Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders to Earnings (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders (unaudited) (in thousands, except per share data) For the Three For the Six Months Ended Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2018 2017 2018 2017 Earnings (Loss) Available to Common Shareholders - Basic and Diluted (a) $ (9,916) $ (16,905) $ (23,542) $ (34,918) Less: Income (loss) from equity affiliates (1,275) (555) (1,406) (1,077) (Provision) benefit for income taxes 129 700 136 280 Change in fair value of contingent consideration and indemnification asset 1,604 (200) 1,504 (200) Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests 115 2,793 554 7,930 ASC 606 Transition Adjustment   (4,498)  Purchase accounting adjustments (2,985) (2,669) (5,838) (5,569) Stock-based compensation expense (4,718) (5,360) (8,513) (10,464) Severance costs 105  (1,489)  Amortization of contract cost assets (578)  (1,139)  Transaction costs (14) (2,847) (1,798) (7,278) Adjusted Earnings (Loss) Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders (b) $ (2,299) $ (8,767) $ (1,055) $ (18,540) Earnings (Loss) per Share Available to Common Shareholders - Basic and Diluted (a) (1) $ (0.13) $ (0.28) $ (0.31) $ (0.62) Adjusted Earnings (Loss) per Share Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders (b) (2) $ (0.03) $ (0.13) $ (0.01) $ (0.27) Weighted-average common shares - basic 77,209 59,478 76,297 56,057 Weighted-average common shares - diluted 77,209 59,478 76,297 56,057 Adjusted Weighted-Average Class A and Class B Shares (3) 78,071 68,155 77,795 68,051

(1) For periods of net loss, shares used in both the basic and diluted earnings per share calculation represent basic shares as using diluted shares would be anti-dilutive. (2) Represents Adjusted Earnings (Loss) Available to Class A and Class B Shareholders divided by Adjusted Weighted-Average Class A and Class B Shares as described in footnote 3 below. (3) Represents the weighted-average common shares (diluted) adjusted to include, in periods of net loss, the dilutive or potentially dilutive effect of the assumed conversion of Class B common shares to Class A common shares. See the reconciliation of Adjusted Weighted-Average Class A and Class B Shares to diluted weighted-average common shares on the following page.

Evolent Health, Inc. Reconciliation of Adjusted Weighted-Average Class A and Class B Shares to Diluted Weighted-Average Common Shares (unaudited) (in thousands) For the Three For the Six Months Ended Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2018 2017 2018 2017 Weighted-average common shares - diluted 77,209 59,478 76,297 56,057 Assumed conversion of Class B common shares to Class A common shares 862 8,677 1,498 11,994 Adjusted Weighted-Average Class A and Class B Shares 78,071 68,155 77,795 68,051

Evolent Health, Inc. Guidance Reconciliation (unaudited) (in thousands) For the Three For the Twelve Months Ended Months Ended September 30, December 31, 2018 2018 Services revenue $ 122,800 $ 494,700 Purchase accounting adjustments 200 800 ASC 606 transition adjustments  4,500 Adjusted Services Revenue 123,000 500,000 True Health premiums revenue 23,000 92,500 Intersegment eliminations (4,000) (15,000) Adjusted Revenue $ 142,000 $ 577,500 Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Evolent Health, Inc. $ (12,800) $ (53,000) Less: Interest income 900 3,500 Interest expense (900) (4,000) Depreciation and amortization expenses (10,000) (40,000) EBITDA (2,800) (12,500) Less: Income (loss) from equity affiliates (500) (2,000) Net (income) loss attributable to non-controlling interests (100) (700) ASC 606 transition adjustments  (4,500) Purchase accounting adjustments (200) (800) Stock-based compensation expense (5,000) (19,000) Severance costs  (1,500) Amortization of contract cost assets (500) (2,000) Transaction costs (500) (2,500) Adjusted EBITDA $ 4,000 $ 20,500

The guidance reconciliation provided above reconciles the midpoint of the respective guidance ranges to the most comparable GAAP measure.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS - CAUTIONARY LANGUAGE

Certain statements made in this release and in other written or oral statements made by us or on our behalf are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 ("PSLRA"). A forward-looking statement is a statement that is not a historical fact and, without limitation, includes any statement that may predict, forecast, indicate or imply future results, performance or achievements, and may contain words like: "believe," "anticipate," "expect," "estimate," "aim," "predict," "potential," "continue," "plan," "project," "will," "should," "shall," "may," "might" and other words or phrases with similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, trends in our businesses, prospective services, future performance or financial results and the outcome of contingencies, such as legal proceedings. We claim the protection afforded by the safe harbor for forward-looking statements provided by the PSLRA.

These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations and projections about future events. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results contained in the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to vary materially, some of which are described within the forward-looking statements, include, among others:

the structural change in the market for health care in the United States ;

; uncertainty in the health care regulatory framework;

uncertainty in the public exchange market;

the uncertain impact of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services waivers to Medicaid rules;

the uncertain impact of the results of the 2018 congressional, state and local elections, as well as subsequent elections, may have on health care laws and regulations;

our ability to effectively manage our growth;

the significant portion of revenue we derive from our largest partners, and the potential loss, termination or renegotiation of customer contracts;

our ability to offer new and innovative products and services;

risks related to completed and future acquisitions, investments and alliances, including the acquisition of assets from New Mexico Health Connections ("NMHC") and the acquisitions of Valence Health, Inc., excluding Cicerone Health Solutions, Inc. ("Valence Health"), and Aldera Holdings, Inc. ("Aldera"), which may be difficult to integrate, divert management resources, result in unanticipated costs or dilute our stockholders;

certain risks and uncertainties associated with the acquisition of assets from NMHC and the acquisition of Valence Health, including future revenues may be less than expected, the timing and extent of new lives expected to come onto the platform may not occur as expected and the expected results of Evolent may not be impacted as anticipated;

the growth and success of our partners, which is difficult to predict and is subject to factors outside of our control, including premium pricing reductions, selection bias in at risk membership and the ability to control and, if necessary, reduce health care costs, particularly in New Mexico ;

; our ability to attract new partners;

the increasing number of risk-sharing arrangements we enter into with our partners;

our ability to recover the significant upfront costs in our partner relationships;

our ability to estimate the size of our target market;

our ability to maintain and enhance our reputation and brand recognition;

consolidation in the health care industry;

competition which could limit our ability to maintain or expand market share within our industry;

risks related to governmental payor audits and actions, including whistleblower claims;

our ability to partner with providers due to exclusivity provisions in our contracts;

restrictions and penalties as a result of privacy and data protection laws;

adequate protection of our intellectual property, including trademarks;

any alleged infringement, misappropriation or violation of third-party proprietary rights;

our use of "open source" software;

our ability to protect the confidentiality of our trade secrets, know-how and other proprietary information;

our reliance on third parties and licensed technologies;

our ability to use, disclose, de-identify or license data and to integrate third-party technologies;

data loss or corruption due to failures or errors in our systems and service disruptions at our data centers;

online security risks and breaches or failures of our security measures;

our reliance on Internet infrastructure, bandwidth providers, data center providers, other third parties and our own systems for providing services to our users;

our reliance on third-party vendors to host and maintain our technology platform;

our ability to contain health care costs, implement increases in premium rates on a timely basis, maintain adequate reserves for policy benefits or maintain cost effective provider agreements;

the risk of a significant reduction in the enrollment in our health plan;

our dependency on our key personnel, and our ability to attract, hire, integrate and retain key personnel;

the risk of potential future goodwill impairment on our results of operations;

our indebtedness and our ability to obtain additional financing;

our ability to achieve profitability in the future;

the requirements of being a public company;

our adjusted results may not be representative of our future performance;

the risk of potential future litigation;

our holding company structure and dependence on distributions from Evolent Health LLC;

our obligations to make payments to certain of our pre-IPO investors for certain tax benefits we may claim in the future;

our ability to utilize benefits under the tax receivables agreement described herein;

our ability to realize all or a portion of the tax benefits that we currently expect to result from past and future exchanges of Class B common units of Evolent Health LLC for our Class A common stock, and to utilize certain tax attributes of Evolent Health Holdings and an affiliate of TPG;

distributions that Evolent Health LLC will be required to make to us and to the other members of Evolent Health LLC;

our obligations to make payments under the tax receivables agreement that may be accelerated or may exceed the tax benefits we realize;

different interests among our pre-IPO investors, or between us and our pre-IPO investors;

the terms of agreements between us and certain of our pre-IPO investors;

the potential volatility of our Class A common stock price;

the potential decline of our Class A common stock price if a substantial number of shares are sold or become available for sale or if a large number of Class B common units are exchanged for shares of Class A common stock;

provisions in our second amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated by-laws and provisions of Delaware law that discourage or prevent strategic transactions, including a takeover of us;

law that discourage or prevent strategic transactions, including a takeover of us; the ability of certain of our investors to compete with us without restrictions;

provisions in our second amended and restated certificate of incorporation which could limit our stockholders' ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers or employees;

our intention not to pay cash dividends on our Class A common stock;

our ability to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting;

our expectations regarding the additional management attention and costs that will be required as we have transitioned from an "emerging growth company" to a "large accelerated filer"; and

our lack of public company operating experience.

The risks included here are not exhaustive. Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, level of activity, performance or achievements. Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, and other documents filed with the SEC include additional factors that could affect our businesses and financial performance. Moreover, we operate in a rapidly changing and competitive environment. New risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all such risk factors.

Further, it is not possible to assess the effect of all risk factors on our businesses or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. In addition, we disclaim any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date of this release.

SOURCE Evolent Health, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.evolenthealth.com


DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Four companies stood out from among more than 150 exhibitors and were selected as Best of Show winners at CompTIA ChannelCon 2018, the tech industry's premier education, networking and partnering event.

Winners were determined by the votes of technology solution provider attendees at the annual conference presented by CompTIA, the world's leading technology association. This year's conference was held in Washington, D.C.

"The ChannelCon Best of Show awards are always highly competitive, and this year was no exception," said Kelly Ricker, executive vice president, events and education, CompTIA. "Conference attendees were impressed with the number of new market entrants and new technologies that were present at the ChannelCon Vendor Technology Fair."

LivePerson, Inc., New York, N.Y., a leading provider of conversational commerce solutions, won two awards, for overall Best of Show and Best Emerging Technology Solution.

Pax8, Inc., Greenwood Village, Colo., a leader in cloud distribution, received the award for Best Industry Innovator.

Datto, Inc., Norwalk, Conn., a leading provider of technology solutions delivered through managed service providers, was recognized with the Best Exhibit awards.

The IoT Security Services Association (IoTSSA), Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, a community of IT channel partners connecting industry security experts and vendors with IT service providers, was named Best Startup at ChannelCon 2018.

D&H Distributing, Harrisburg, Pa., a major provider of small business and consumer technologies, won the ChannelCon Recruitment Challenge by recruiting the largest number of partners to attend the conference.

ChannelCon 2019 is scheduled for August 5-7, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nev. Visit CompTIA Events for updates on ChannelCon 2019 and other conferences, events, meetings, and webinars organized by CompTIA.

About CompTIA

The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is a leading voice and advocate for the $4.8 trillion global information technology ecosystem; and the more than 35 million industry and tech professionals who design, implement, manage, and safeguard the technology that powers the world's economy. Through education, training, certifications, advocacy, philanthropy, and market research, CompTIA is the hub for advancing the tech industry and its workforce. Visit www.comptia.org to learn more.

Contact:

Steven Ostrowski

CompTIA

[email protected]

630-678-8468

SOURCE CompTIA

Related Links

http://www.comptia.org


DUBLIN, Aug 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

The "Global Voice Recognition Market - Segmented by Deployment Type (Cloud, On - Premise), End User (Banking, Telecommunications, Healthcare, Government, Consumer Applications), and Region - Growth, Trends and Forecasts (2018 - 2023)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Global Voice Recognition Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 16% during the forecast period (2018-2023). The scope of the report is limited to deployment type which includes Cloud, On-premise. The End Users considered in the scope of the report include Banking, Telecommunications, Healthcare, Government, and Consumer Applications.

Voice based searches have been highly adopted by various consumer demographics. ComScore, an American Analytics Company predicted that 50% of the searches are estimated to be voice searches by 2020. The adoption of voice recognition technologies adds to the efficiency of various processes as an average person can speak about 150 words per minute while only 60 words can be typed in a minute on average.

Google has already released statistics according to which 70% of the searches have been made in natural or conversational language' which indicate the scope for the adoption of voice recognition. Growing number of security attacks over the last few years, the most notable being Yahoo's data breach, which is considered to the biggest security breach of the 21st century, is also expected to boost the adoption of more secure authentication methods like voice based authentication.

Key Highlights

Growing Security concerns drive the market for voice recognition

Banking Expected to Be One of the Primary Recipients of the Technology

China Is Expected to Have High Growth for Voice Recognition Market

Key Developments in Voice Recognition Market

March 2018 : Voiximplant, a cloud communications platform has announced the launch of a web services platform which is capable of integrating voice recognition capabilities with outbound call campaigns. This enables businesses to design complex call scenarios with an easy to use editor which helps in productivity. Using smart calls has also been found to be three times less expensive compared to human resources.

Key Topics Covered



1. Introduction

1.1 Key study deliverables

1.2 Market definition

1.3 Study Assumptions



2. Research Methodology



3. Executive Summary



4. Voice Recognition Market Insights

4.1 Voice Recognition Market overview

4.2 Industry attractiveness- Porter's Five Forces Analysis

4.2.1 Threat of new entrants

4.2.2 Bargaining power of suppliers

4.2.3 Bargaining power of consumers

4.2.4 Threat of substitute products

4.2.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry



5. Voice Recognition Market Dynamics

5.1 Voice Recognition Market drivers

5.1.1 Need for Voice authentication technologies

5.1.2 Better productivity and ease of operation

5.2 Voice Recognition Market Restraints

5.2.1 Lack of accuracy in the voice recognition systems



6. Technological Overview



7. Global Voice Recognition Market Segmentation

7.1 Voice Recognition Market By Deployment Type

7.1.1 On Premise

7.1.2 Cloud

7.2 Voice Recognition Market By End User

7.2.1 Banking

7.2.2 Telecommunications

7.2.3 Healthcare

7.2.4 Government

7.2.5 Consumer Applications

7.2.6 Other

7.3 Voice Recognition Market By Geography

7.3.1 North America

7.3.2 Europe

7.3.3 Asia Pacific

7.3.4 Latin America

7.3.5 Middle East and Africa



8. Voice Recognition Market Key Vendor Profiles

8.1 Nuance Communications

8.2 Agnitio Corp

8.3 Auraya Systems

8.4 Brianasoft

8.5 VoiceBox Technologies

8.6 Fulcrum Biometrics

8.7 Neurotechnology

8.8 VoiceTrust

8.9 M2SYS Biometrics

8.10 Sensory, Inc.

8.11 VoiceBase Inc.



9. Voice Recognition Market Investment Analysis

9.1 Recent mergers and acquisitions

9.2 Investment scenario and opportunities



10. Future of Voice Recognition Market



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/nkgg7v/global_voice?w=5

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

SOURCE Research and Markets

Related Links

http://www.researchandmarkets.com


HOUSTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Group 1 Automotive, Inc. (NYSE: GPI), ("Group 1" or the "Company"), an international, Fortune 500 automotive retailer, today announced the acquisition of Honda of Slidell in Slidell, Louisiana, and Fernandez Honda in San Antonio, Texas. These stores, which will continue to operate under the same names, are expected to generate $125 million in annual revenues. The Company now owns and operates 13 Honda dealerships across the United States in Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey, Oklahoma and Texas, as well as in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

In addition, since July 26, 2018, the Company has repurchased 189,600 shares at an average price per common share of $69.61, for a total of $13.2 million. Year-to-date, the Company has repurchased 1.3 million shares at an average price of $68.63, for a total of $89.5 million. This represents 6.4 percent of the Company's beginning of the year common share count. As of August 6, 2018, the Company has $60.2 million remaining on its Board authorized common stock share repurchase program. Future repurchases may be made from time to time, based on market conditions, legal requirements and other corporate considerations, in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, and subject to Board approval and covenant restrictions.

"We are delighted to expand our partnership with Honda, one of the most powerful automotive brands in the U.S. Additionally, these acquisitions increase our scale in two of our existing markets, which both contain promising growth potential. It should also be noted that we intend to continue with our declared share repurchase intentions as we affirmed during our July 26 earnings call and with additional repurchases since that date," said Earl J. Hesterberg, Group 1's president and chief executive officer.

About Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

Group 1 owns and operates 182 automotive dealerships, 238 franchises, and 48 collision centers in the United States, the United Kingdom and Brazil that offer 32 brands of automobiles. Through its dealerships, the Company sells new and used cars and light trucks; arranges related vehicle financing; sells service contracts; provides automotive maintenance and repair services; and sells vehicle parts.

Investors please visit www.group1corp.com, www.group1auto.com, www.group1collision.com, www.facebook.com/group1auto, and www.twitter.com/group1auto, where Group 1 discloses additional information about the Company, its business, and its results of operations.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are statements related to future, not past, events and are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy and other future conditions. In this context, the forward-looking statements often include statements regarding our strategic investments, goals, plans, projections and guidance regarding our financial position, results of operations, business strategy, and often contain words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "should," "foresee," "may" or "will" and similar expressions. While management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made, there can be no assurance that future developments affecting us will be those that we anticipate. Any such forward-looking statements are not assurances of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, (a) general economic and business conditions, (b) the level of manufacturer incentives, (c) the future regulatory environment, (d) our ability to obtain an inventory of desirable new and used vehicles, (e) our relationship with our automobile manufacturers and the willingness of manufacturers to approve future acquisitions, (f) our cost of financing and the availability of credit for consumers, (g) our ability to complete acquisitions and dispositions and the risks associated therewith, (h) foreign exchange controls and currency fluctuations, and (i) our ability to retain key personnel. For additional information regarding known material factors that could cause our actual results to differ from our projected results, please see our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements after the date they are made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investor contacts:

Sheila Roth

Manager, Investor Relations

Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

713-647-5741 | [email protected]

Media contacts:

Pete DeLongchamps

Senior V.P. Manufacturer Relations, Financial Services and Public Affairs

Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

713-647-5770 | [email protected]

or

Clint Woods

Pierpont Communications, Inc.

713-627-2223 | [email protected]

SOURCE Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.group1auto.com


| BY Ricki Green |

LIA has announced that Mark Tutssel (left), executive chairman / chief creative officer of Leo Burnett Worldwide, will preside over the Integration jury. Steve Jackson (right), executive creative director at Innocean Worldwide Sydney will represent Australia on the jury.

As executive chairman of Leo Burnett Worldwide, Tutssel leads the networks unrivaled creative firepower across the world, and is responsible for setting the companys vision. Tutssel oversees the creative output for some of the worlds most respected brands, including Samsung, McDonalds and General Motors.

In 2015, Advertising Age recognized Leo Burnett as the most awarded network in the world. Under Tutssels leadership, the network has also topped the Gunn Reports All Gunns Blazing category for seven of the past eight years, leading the industry in new-world thinking. It is one of a very small group of agencies to have ranked in the worlds Top 5 most awarded creative networks for ten years in a row.

Says Tutssel: Technology is unleashing unprecedented creative potential. New channels offer fresh ways to engage consumers, while the proliferation of screens in all shapes and sizes has provided an infinite canvas for us to explore. In such a rapidly evolving landscape, my focus will be to celebrate the unexpected and unconventional; work thats brilliant in thinking, innovative in expression and agile enough to move at the speed of culture. Of course, truly integrated campaigns must also demonstrate a deft understanding of an increasingly complex consumer journey, and deliver solutions that maximize the potential for emotional connection at each and every touch point. Its a great honor to chair the Integration category this year, and Im tremendously excited for the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the freshest ideas in the industry.

Says Barbara Levy, president, LIA: Ideas for integration should impact society on either a global level or be woven into the cultural fabric of a particular region. We have such a diverse and experienced jury that the real gems will sparkle in this category.

2018 Integration Jury:

Mark Tutssel  Jury President, Executive Chairman / Chief Creative Officer of Leo Burnett Worldwide

Sarah Barclay, Global Executive Creative Director at J. Walter Thompson, New York

Paul Chan, Chief Creative Officer at Cheil Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Nerea Cierco, Executive Creative Director at DDB Madrid, Madrid

Nancy Crimi-Lamanna, Chief Creative Officer at FCB Toronto, Toronto

Mike Geiger, CEO of Wolfgang, Venice California

Steve Jackson, Executive Creative Director at INNOCEAN, Sydney

Vicki Maguire, Chief Creative Officer at Grey London, London

Mark McDonald, Head of Creative, Mumbai at Digitas India, Mumbai

Monica Moro, Chief Creative Officer at McCann Spain, Madrid

Rob Sherlock, Chairman at ADK Global, Singapore

Gary Steele, Executive Creative Director at TBWA\Singapore, Singapore

Stephan Vogel, Chief Creative Officer EMEA at Ogilvy, Frankfurt The Integration judging will take place at Encore Las Vegas from October 3rd through October 5th.

The Entry System is open for entries. The initial entry deadline is the August 13th.
BRAINTREE, Mass., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Haemonetics Corporation (NYSE: HAE) announced that financial results for its first fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2018 are available on its Investor relations website.

The Company is posting this press release and, additionally, results tables that will be referenced on its webcast to its Investor Relations website.

Direct link to Earnings Release 1Q19:

http://phx.corporate-ir.net/External.File?item=UGFyZW50SUQ9NDA5MTk1fENoaWxkSUQ9LTF8VHlwZT0z&t=1&cb=636682931304087427

Direct link to Results Tables 1Q19 That Will Be Referenced on Webcast:

http://phx.corporate-ir.net/External.File?item=UGFyZW50SUQ9NDA5MTk2fENoaWxkSUQ9LTF8VHlwZT0z&t=1&cb=636682931304087427

As previously announced, the Company will host a conference call with investors and analysts to discuss and answer questions about the results at 8:00am Eastern Time on August 7, 2018. The call can be accessed with the following information:

U.S. / Canada toll free (877) 848-8880; International (716) 335-9513 Conference ID required for access: 6164607.



toll free (877) 848-8880; International (716) 335-9513 Conference ID required for access: 6164607. A live webcast of the call can be accessed on Haemonetics' investor relations website.



Direct link to Conference Call Webcast:



https://edge.media-server.com/m6/p/bcyyy75d

ABOUT HAEMONETICS

Haemonetics (NYSE: HAE) is a global healthcare company dedicated to providing a suite of innovative hematology products and solutions for our customers to help them improve patient care and reduce the cost of healthcare. Our technology addresses important medical markets: blood and plasma component collection, the surgical suite, and hospital transfusion services. To learn more about Haemonetics, visit our web site at http://www.haemonetics.com.

Investor Contact Media Contact

Gerry Gould, VP-Investor Relations Carla Burigatto, VP-Communications

(781) 356-9402 (781) 348-7263

[email protected] [email protected]



SOURCE Haemonetics Corporation

Related Links

http://www.haemonetics.com


ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Health officials say a new CDC study on Zika-associated birth defects is a stark reminder that emerging infectious diseases constitute a persistent threat to our nation's health security. Given the higher rate and broader spectrum of disabilities associated with Zika during pregnancy, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) urges policymakers to direct continued resources to monitor the impact of Zika on mothers and babies.

According to the largest report to date on health outcomes among babies in the U.S. territories one year or older, 1 in 7 have been diagnosed with health problems possibly caused by exposure to Zika. The report also presents new information on neurological conditions seen in infants affected by Zikaeven those who appeared healthy at birth.

"State and territorial public health departments are working with healthcare providers to collect and report medical information, share clinical guidance, and raise awareness about the risks of Zika," says John Wiesman, president of ASTHO and secretary of health at the Washington State Department of Health. "To continue this and respond to both ongoing and emerging disease threats, we need sustained investments in the U.S. Zika Pregnancy and Infant Registry to strengthen our nation's health security capabilities."

The height of the Zika outbreak has passed, but it remains a threat to mothers and babies who are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases and birth defects that can result from these infections during pregnancy. While the full extent of long-term health problems caused by Zika remains unknown, state and territorial health departments play a critical role in monitoring the health and developmental outcomes of children affected by many different types of infectious diseases and conditions, such as pandemic influenza, prenatal opioid exposure, and congenital syphilis.

Unfortunately, funding to safeguard the public's health has fluctuated drastically over time, dictated by emergency responses to specific disease events. "We urge Congress to provide at least $10 million to support initiatives to address emerging threats to mothers and babies. This will allow CDC to continue collaborating with state, tribal, territorial, and local health departments to monitor mothers and babies impacted by Zika and other infectious diseases," says Michael Fraser, chief executive officer of ASTHO. "We need adequate resources in place so that we're prepared for the next public health emergency."

ASTHO is the national nonprofit organization representing the public health agencies of the United States, the U.S. territories and freely associated states, and the District of Columbia, as well as the more than 100,000 public health professionals these agencies employ. ASTHO members, the chief health officials of these jurisdictions, are dedicated to formulating and influencing sound public health policy and to ensuring excellence in public health practice.

SOURCE Association of State and Territorial Health Officials
DENVER, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Topping off a year of accolades for Recondo Technology's automated solutions, the company has promoted longtime product executive Heather Kawamoto to the Executive Team. Kawamoto will serve as the company's Chief Product Officer, a newly created role that expands Kawamoto's leadership of some of the most dynamic products in healthcare revenue cycle technology today.

Under her guidance, Recondo earned the coveted 2018 Best in KLAS for Patient Access ranking for its patient access solutions. The company went on to earn HFMA's Peer-Reviewed status for its automated solutions that obtain prior authorization from health insurers and early retrieval of actionable claim status; the first ever to be peer reviewed by HFMA.

"Heather is a highly customer-focused professional, a dedication that has paid off in development of technology that today saves healthcare providers hundreds of millions of dollars. I could not be more pleased to see her step into the Chief Product Officer role," stated Jay Deady, Recondo CEO.

Recondo's Board of Directors shared their support of the decision.

"On behalf of the Board of Directors, we're thrilled to support Heather's promotion, acknowledging the leadership, keen market insight and product differentiation that she has lead over the last decade in various roles with Recondo," stated Jodi Hubler, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors and Managing Director, Lemhi Ventures. "She's integral to Recondo having achieved the market recognition it currently enjoys, and it's a personal pleasure for me to have witnessed and supported Heather's development throughout her well-earned career with us."

Kawamoto will help hospitals navigate new price transparency regulations

Late last week CMS released its final rule for Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payments Systems in order to provide patients better access to price information. The ruling requires hospitals to post standard charges on their websites in "machine readable" format, a directive that many will see as burdensome, narrow and potentially misrepresenting what the patient is likely to pay.

With her extensive work helping hospitals embed price estimate calculators in their websites and hospital information systems, Kawamoto will be able to help healthcare organizations turn the CMS mandate into a business opportunity.

"Recondo has guided some of the largest health systems in the country to deploy our comprehensive cost estimate technology as a fundamental offering in their market strategy. We believe that prospective patients viewing an online list of charges can and should be directed to a price estimate on the same website that gives a more accurate picture of their true cost of care," Kawamoto noted.

Recondo pioneered robotic process automation in revenue cycle management, and today, its machine learning-enhanced engines are reducing patient estimate errors by as much as 33 percent, while discoveringand acting onthe impact of downstream practice and billing patterns to improve predictions.

Natural language processing is being applied to authorization, reducing further the need for human input of clinical data for prior authorization requests. This innovation is particularly relevant as some states are crafting legislation that would require health insurers to confirm authorization status within 24 hours; a feat that cannot be accomplished at large scale without automation.

"I want to thank Jay and the board for their confidence in me to serve in this important new role. For our customers that have long known how dedicated we are to delivering value  stay tuned. Our talented team have more exciting innovations in store for you," Kawamoto said.

Members of the media are encouraged to contact Stephanie Janard, Amendola Communications for Recondo Technology, at 828-288-2831 or [email protected] to schedule an interview with Heather Kawamoto, Chief Product Officer at Recondo.

About Recondo Technology

Recondo's cloud-based solutions deliver industry leading automated, accurate, and actionable financial clarity to all participants within the healthcare revenue cycle. Recognized by Black Book Research as one of the top three leaders in revenue cycle management software, Recondo empowers more than 900 hospitals with solutions that connect providers, payers, and patients to ensure proper payments across the care continuum. The company's patented software and expertise streamline operations and allow providers to be paid more, faster, and at a cheaper cost. Recondo brings efficiencies and cost savings to patient access through to payment processinga continuum today where inaccuracy and inefficiencies currently cost U.S. healthcare a staggering $480 billion per year. Learn more at www.recondotech.com.

Media contact:

Stephanie Janard

Amendola Communications for Recondo Technology

[email protected] | 828.288.2831

SOURCE Recondo Technology

Related Links

http://www.recondotech.com


AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Founder and CEO of UpgradedPoints.com Alex Miller and his wife Erin wanted to take her parents on an unforgettable European trip. The four traveled together for two and half weeks to England and Italy using rewards points and miles from their credit cards for exclusive first-class airline tickets, deals on hotels and more. Erin Miller recently wrote an article "An Extra Special Trip to London & Italy With My Parents (In Style!)" on their blog detailing their experience.

This Family of Four Used Points to Fly First Class

The trip was a year in the making and had many moving parts, but the key to their success and significant cost-savings was figuring out how to leverage their credit card rewards points. Alex sat down with Erin's parents to see how they could best capitalize on their spending patterns to earn the most points possible. Through the information gathered, England and Italy were some of the best travel destinations with the help of the British Airways Visa Signature Card which offers a "Travel Together" ticket.

"Alex and I have both had this card in the past. We knew with some strategic spending tactics, they could earn a Travel Together ticket, as well as enough rewards points to secure some pretty great seats for a hop across the pond," explains Erin in her article.

Alex was in charge of booking the flights, given his skill and knowledge. The goal was to book award flights for four round-trip, first-class flights on British Airways from the U.S. to London Heathrow and then round-trip economy flights from London to Rome, Italy, using points.

The total cost of the flights for each couple worked out to 183,000 points and $872.18 taxes and fees. These tickets regularly retail for ~$7,000 per person in First Class, that's $14,000 per couple! The four were able to enjoy all the luxuries of first-class flying including the spacious, comfortable seating and bed, dining and amenities both in-flight and at the lounges.

The family was also able to take advantage of other points and savings during their trip, such as the Hyatt Visa credit card sign-up bonuses of two free nights at any Hyatt property. They took advantage of this by staying at the five-star Hyatt Regency London hotel, regularly $350 per night for each room.

To see the full story as well as photos and how to best maximize points and miles for luxury travel, visit UpgradedPoints.com.

About UpgradedPoints.com

Upgraded Points was launched in 2016 by founder Alex Miller to show travelers and those hoping to travel the real value of points and miles. For more information, visit UpgradedPoints.com.

Media Contact

Alex Miller

[email protected]

SOURCE UpgradedPoints.com

Related Links

https://upgradedpoints.com


"We are pleased to extend our relationship with MAM and add these two historic hotels to our portfolio," said Interstate Hotels & Resorts CEO, Mike Deitemeyer. "As a global leader in hotel management, we look forward to continuing to deliver value to our owners."

Interstate Hotels & Resorts currently manages another MAM asset, Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago, extending their portfolio to three MAM properties. The award-winning Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown/N Loop/Michigan Avenue is a 143-room property, located in the historic Chicago Motor Club building which is located one block south of the Chicago River. The Cambria Hotel Chicago Loop  Theatre District, a vintage 22-story, 199-room property, was originally constructed in 1927 and is situated above the historic Ford Center for the Performing Arts Oriental Theatre. This prime location merges business in the Loop with the high-energy nightlife of Chicago's popular River North and Streeterville neighborhoods.

"Interstate has been a strong manager for us and we look forward to their support with these two iconic Chicago hotels," said John T. Murphy, chairman and CEO of MDG.

A global leader in third-party hotel management, Interstate Hotels & Resorts' depth of experience across all lodging segments and asset classes drives results in each of its managed hotels worldwide. For more information on Interstate Hotels & Resorts, visit www.InterstateHotels.com.

About Interstate Hotels & Resorts

Interstate Hotels & Resorts is the leading U.S.-based global hotel management company, operating branded full- and select-service hotels, resorts, convention centers and independent hotels. Currently, Interstate's global portfolio represents 550 properties in 12 countries inclusive of a committed pipeline of signed hotels under construction or development around the world. The company's experienced operators, industry-leading platforms and extensive management capabilities produce exceptional guest experiences and optimal returns for hotel owners and investors. For more information, please visit www.interstatehotels.com, or follow Interstate on Facebook and LinkedIn.

About Murphy Asset Management, LLC

Murphy Asset Management, LLC, a subsidiary of Murphy Development Group, focuses on generating development opportunities in the multifamily, hospitality and office sectors across the country. Through sound investment strategies and extensive due diligence, the dynamic development team at Murphy Asset Management with support from the MB Real Estate platform assists with identifying, evaluating and executing the projects by combining sound financial modeling, economic analysis and entrepreneurial creativity. Murphy Asset Management and the MB Real Estate team have supported numerous developments owned by affiliates of Murphy Asset Management, including: Lincoln Park 2550, Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago and the Oriental Theater redevelopment. For more information on MAM and MDG, visit MurphyDevGroup.com.

For More Media Information:

Natasha Wojcik/ Amanda Lewis

The Zimmerman Agency  850.668.2222

[email protected]

SOURCE Interstate Hotels & Resorts

Related Links

https://www.interstatehotels.com


ELIZABETHVILLE, Pa., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- RiteScreen, the industry leader in providing exceptional assembled screens, screen components, and consultative services to window and door manufacturers, is proud to announce the promotion of John Keller to the position of Chief Operating Officer as of August 1, 2018. In his new role, Mr. Keller will continue to accelerate RiteScreen's continuous improvement efforts throughout the company and lead supply chain efforts.

Keller joined RiteScreen in 2014 as the Senior Vice President of Operations and Supply Chain. Since joining the organization, he has introduced LEAN principles and laid the foundation for the company's culture of continuous improvement. His expertise in supply chain management has helped RiteScreen diversify its supply base while enhancing the profitability of the company.

Before coming to RiteScreen, Keller was VP of Supply Chain at Andersen's Silver Line business. He was responsible for all Supply Chain functions, including Customer Service, Procurement, Operations Planning, Facilities, and Logistics. RiteScreen CEO Thomas Himmel notes, "John's background gives him an overall understanding of how to improve customer satisfaction, and his ability to motivate his team has led to his continued success."

Mr. Keller earned a Bachelor of Industrial Engineering and Bachelor of Economics/Finance degrees from Rutgers University.

RiteScreen (www.ritescreen.com) was founded in 1947 and is the largest independent manufacturer of window and patio door screens in North America. It serves window and patio door manufacturers nationally through seven plant locations across the United States.

Media Contact:

Robert Scott

[email protected]

717-362-7483 x2222

Related Links

Company Website

SOURCE The RiteScreen Company, LLC

Related Links

http://www.ritescreen.com


CINCINNATI, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today announced Valerie Jabbar, currently president of the Ralphs division, as group vice president of merchandising for the company, effective September 1. Mike Murphy, currently vice president of operations for the Columbus division, will succeed Ms. Jabbar as president of the Ralphs division.

Valerie Jabbar Named Group Vice President of Merchandising

Ms. Jabbar began her Kroger career in 1987 as a clerk in the Fry's division. She has held several leadership roles, including assistant store director, category manager, drug/general merchandise coordinator, corporate seasonal manager, and director of drug/general merchandise, as well as district manager in the Fry's division. In 2012, she moved to the Mid-Atlantic division to serve as vice president of merchandising before joining the Ralphs division in 2013 as vice president of merchandising. Ms. Jabbar was promoted to division president in July 2016.

"Valerie brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and insight to this role," said Mike Donnelly, Kroger's executive vice president and COO. "As we continue the work of Restock Kroger, her ability to lead and deliver for our associates and customers will continue to transform our business."

Ms. Jabbar serves as the president of the Food Industries Circle and is a board member for the Western Association of Food Chains, as well as the food industry executive in residence for the USC Marshall School of Business. She is a mentor for emerging leaders through the Ralphs division's women's associate resource group and was named a "Rising Star" by Progressive Grocer in its 2012 Top Women in Grocery awards.

Mike Murphy Promoted to President of Ralphs Division

Mr. Murphy joined Kroger in 1999 as an accountant in the company's auditing department in Cincinnati. He moved to finance in 2001 and then to drug/general merchandise to manage financial reporting and analysis. In 2004, he completed the management development program in the Cincinnati/Dayton division. In 2005, he was named a category manager for drug/general merchandise and personal care. In 2007, he moved to the Central division in Indiana and served as assistant merchandiser for both drug/general merchandise and grocery. In 2011, Mr. Murphy moved to the Louisville division as a grocery merchandiser and was promoted to district manager in 2014. He was promoted to vice president of merchandising in the Columbus division in 2016, and then to his current role in 2017.

"Mike is a dynamic leader who brings great passion to our business," said Mr. Donnelly "His strong commitment to our purpose and promise, and extensive grocery retail experience, make him a great asset to our Ralphs division."

Ralphs is headquartered in Compton, California. It operates 191 stores in Southern California and employs more than 21,000 associates.

At The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), we are dedicated to our Purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit. We are nearly half a million associates who serve over nine million customers daily through a seamless digital shopping experience and 2,800 retail food stores under a variety of banner names, serving America through food inspiration and uplift, and creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site.

SOURCE The Kroger Co.

Related Links

http://www.kroger.com


Additionally, these new USB 3.0 cables feature LSZH cable jackets and connector over molds. LSZH compound reduces the amount of toxic and corrosive gases emitted during combustion, and will self-extinguish after catching on fire.

L-com offers two versions of these assemblies. One version features USB 3.0 Type-A male to Type-A male connectors and the other version features USB 3.0 Type-A male to Type-B male connectors.

"These new USB cables with ferrites and low-smoke jackets offer multiple levels of protection while providing high-speed USB 3.0 performance. These new assemblies are perfect for data storage, streaming video and data acquisition applications," said Brian Gates, Product Manager.

L-com's new USB 3.0 cable assemblies with ferrite beads and LSZH jackets are in stock and are available for immediate shipment.

For more information about this release, please contact:

Peter McNeil

L-com Global Connectivity

17792 Fitch

Irvine, CA

978-682-6936 x1174

About L-com Global Connectivity:

L-com Global Connectivity, a leading manufacturer of wired and wireless connectivity products, offers a wide range of solutions and unrivaled customer service for the electronics and data communications industries. The company's product portfolio includes cable assemblies, connectors, adapters, antennas, enclosures, surge protectors and more. L-com is headquartered in North Andover, Mass., is ISO 9001: 2008 certified and many of its products are UL recognized. L-com is an Infinite Electronics company.

SOURCE L-com Global Connectivity

Related Links

http://www.l-com.com/


Liaison's Data-Inspired Future Scholarship is designed to encourage promising students to pursue careers in data and use the information and skills learned to positively impact our technology-driven world. Rana is simultaneously pursuing her Bachelor of Engineering degree in Engineering Management and Master of Science degree in Financial Analytics, with an expected graduation date of May 2019.

"Receiving this scholarship is truly a blessing," said Rana. "My goal is to use data science and machine learning to provide actionable insight and benefits to a cause that is bigger than me. Whether it's working for a humanitarian organization like the United Nations or simply looking at open source data in my free time, I see myself using data science methods to analyze data and make predictions that will achieve some good. This scholarship aligns with my goal and the way I feel about data. It also helps with the expenses of obtaining two degrees so that I can focus on the future."

Currently, Rana is interning at Credit Suisse where she works in a data science role within Cyber Security, helping to detect serious threats. Additionally, Rana has interned in machine learning and data science at New York Life where she developed predictive models to forecast mutual fund redemption values and to predict customer behavior. She also built data visualizations for life insurance products.

"Data provides the opportunity for people to gain insights into their businesses and employees in a way that human intuition may not necessarily reveal at the outset," said Rana. "With machine learning and all of the new automated tools becoming available for analysis, data will be used to optimize business processes and, eventually, human processes as well. There is also a social responsibility element emerging with machine learning that fascinates me. In the next few years, it will become more important to look at how we limit injecting human bias into the data we feed into our machines. Are we being responsible with the algorithms and the techniques we use? Once mastered, data will have a huge beneficial impact on businesses and organizations everywhere."

Rana stood out as an applicant due to her impressive work experience, academic credentials and projects, leadership opportunities, and a 60-second video she created. The video discusses the importance of machine learning, highlighting Rana's work developing machine learning models to predict the performance of a mutual fund. View Rana's video here.

"Data is central to what we do here at Liaison, and we recognize the increasing need for data scientists and engineers to help discover new insights from data that will drive business and our society forward," said Pamela Osborne, Liaison's director of human resources. "Namankita understands the importance of data and how it can be used to analyze the past and predict the future. She has also achieved practical experience in data management, data science and analytics. This makes her the ideal candidate for our Data-Inspired Future Scholarship. We wish her the best in her final year of college and in her career endeavors."

Rana has completed several academic and independent projects during her time as a student. These include building a data model to discover factors influencing student performance in secondary schools and analyzing data to explore global trends in female education and enrollment. Rana was previously the acting president of the Society of Women Engineers at Stevens Institute. She is a columnist for her college newspaper, discussing the experience of pursuing a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) career as a female.

High school or college students who are interested in applying for next fall's Data-Inspired Future Scholarship can submit applications by October 31, 2018. For more information on scholarship eligibility and details on how to apply, please visit www.liaison.com/scholarship. The winner of the next round will be notified by November 30, 2018.

About Liaison Technologies

Liaison Technologies provides integration and data management solutions to help customers unlock the power of a data-centric approach to their business. Liaison's cloud-based approach breaks down the barriers between data silos to tap into the valuable information needed to make better decisions, faster. Tailored to solve complex data problems today while building a robust foundation for tomorrow's unforeseen challenges, Liaison fosters a seamless flow of information securely and at scale. Founded in 2000, Liaison serves more than 7,400 customers in 46 countries, with offices in the United States, the Netherlands, Finland, Sweden, the United Kingdom and Singapore. For more information, visit http://www.liaison.com/ and connect with Liaison on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

MEDIA CONTACT:



Amy Dardinger

SSPR

(847) 415-9321

[email protected]

SOURCE Liaison Technologies

Related Links

http://www.liaison.com


| BY Ricki Green |

Queenslander Edward King has been crowned Australias Top Student at the 2018 AWARD School National Announcement, which was held at Facebook in Sydney on Tuesday night (7 August).

King, who was recently promoted to the role of art director at Rumble, beat almost 200 graduates around the country to earn the title and wins a once in a lifetime trip to Facebook HQ in San Francisco to train with its creative agency ambassador group, courtesy of AWARD partnering sponsor Facebook Australia.

He was tutored by Ryan Petie (Publicis Worldwide), Kirsten Twigg (Publicis Worldwide) and Lindsay Thompson (Khemistry).

To determine the national winner, AWARD appointed a Super Jury comprising eight leading creatives from around the world, who reviewed the state winners portfolios in an independent and blind-judging round.

The 2018 AWARD School Super Judges are (by alphabetical order):

1. Justine Armour, ECD, 72andSunny NYC (AWARD School Head, 2002-2003)

2. Jeff Goodby, Co-Chairman & Partner, Goodby, Silverstein & Partners

3. Genevieve Hoey, Group ECD, R/GA NYC

4. Andrew Keller, Global Creative Director, Facebook Creative Shop

5. David Kolbusz, CCO, Droga5 London

6. Kim Pick, ECD, Y&R NZ (former AWARD School Head and Student)

7. Leo Premutico, Co-Founder & CCO, Johannes Leonardo NYC (AWARD School Graduate, 2000)

8. Leigh Reyes, President & CCO, MullenLowe Manila.

Commenting on the winning portfolio, the judges described the campaign ideas as exciting, insightful and unexpected.

Jeff Goodby, co-chairman and partner at Goodby, Silverstein & Partners congratulated King for producing work far more senior than his experience level.

Justine Armour, executive creative director at 72andSunny NYC said: This is an exciting book for a first-timer. Several good, simple ideas, clearly expressed.

Kim Pick, executive creative director at Y&R NZ, said the winners Cannes Lions execution stopped her in her tracks and that King would be a great asset in any creative department.

A total of 200 students across five states, including NSW, QLD, VIC, SA and WA graduated from

AWARD School in 2018. This year, the theme was Big Ideas for a Big Future with each student tasked with 10 briefs, ranging from experiential and social, to game changer and integrated campaigns.

AWARD Committee Member and M&C Saatchi Australia CCO Cam Blackley extended special congratulations to the Top Students who produced work that not only impressed the state judges but also an international jury of renowned industry leaders.

This year the theme was Big Ideas and our top students delivered by putting forward incisive and original ideas that won over the judges and raised the bar for aspiring creatives in years to come.

Adding: I encourage everyone in the creative sector, particularly CDs and ECDs, to look at the top student portfolios and think about how we can further support our next generation, whether it be through mentoring or a graduate opportunity.

The folios of top students from each state are now available to view on the AWARD website.

Blackley also thanked the school heads, lecturers and tutors in each state for the unwavering support and dedication throughout the 12 week course. In 2018, a total of 188 industry leaders participated in AWARD School including 94 tutors from 42 agencies.

For a full list of 2018 AWARD School Heads visit https://awardonline.com/education/award-school-heads and for Tutors visit http://awardonline.com/education/2018-tutors.

The Top Students from each state were also acknowledged at the event (by alphabetical order):

Lucas Fowler, NSW

Elizabeth Graydon, WA

Edward King, QLD (National Winner)

Shaun McFarlane, SA

Phoebe Sloane, VIC.

Victorias Top Student Phoebe Sloane was awarded national winner of the Social Brief  an AWARD initiative whereby students develop a campaign idea for Australias most deserving social causes. In 2018, food rescue charity OzHarvest was selected for the initiative.

Says Alexandra Sloane, head of marketing, Australia & New Zealand, Facebook: AWARD School brings together the brightest creative minds in our industry, from the most seasoned ECDs, right through to fresh talent. Our partnership with AWARD is about strengthening those connections.
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- LoanStar Technologies has launched three new customers on version 6.0 of the MerchantLinQ platform. This major release adds the ability to electronically sign a home services work completion certificate and integrates the MerchantLinQ platform to the CreditSmarts.com platform, bringing the total number of loan origination system partnerships to 12. Additionally, MerchantLinQ is now completely integrated to Compliance Systems CSi loan content engine, allowing for appropriate compliance content to be generated in all 50 states. These additional partnerships make adding lender customers much easier and will speed up the pace at which new lenders will be able to deploy MerchantLinQ in their local markets.

Brian Gill, SVP and Retail Lending Manager said that "the combination of the ability to serve our small businesses and attract new customers locally while maintaining compliance" was the key to the adoption for Peoples Bank of Indiana.

"We're always looking for new and improved ways to service our members and provide a superior member experience. The leverage of having a new solution for our small business membership and being able to use it as a door-opener for future services" was critical in IH Mississippi Valley CU's selection and deployment of the platform, said Lindsey Ramos, VP Business Development.

GHS Federal Credit Union of Binghamton, New York, has launched the program within their footprint as well. Howard Meller, CEO of GHS, said: "We saw the LoanStar platform as an opportunity to expand our sales team and reach within the community while using the GHS brand to leverage local relationships. This is a game changer for us."

LoanStar offers state of the art technology to connect lenders to borrowers through their merchants in home improvement, elective medical, consumer durable, renewable energy and non-auto vehicle verticals. The system is currently in production in 11 states and expanding to a national program in late 2018.

About LoanStar Technologies

LoanStar Technologies is a Philadelphia-based FinTech company that enables banks, credit unions, and other lenders to create point-of-sale consumer loans. Using their proprietary MerchantLinQ platform, LoanStar has created a streamlined, technology-driven system to quickly and easily create loans as a consumer-friendly alternative to high-interest white label credit cards. For more information, visit loanstartechnologies.com.

About Northwest Indiana Bancorp

NorthWest Indiana Bancorp is a locally managed and independent financial holding company headquartered in Munster, Indiana, whose activities are primarily limited to holding the stock of Peoples Bank. Peoples Bank provides a wide range of personal, business, electronic and wealth management financial services from its 19 locations in Lake and Porter Counties in Northwest Indiana. NorthWest Indiana Bancorp's common stock is traded on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol NWIN. The website ibankpeoples.com provides information on Peoples Bank's products and services, and NorthWest Indiana Bancorp's investor relations.

About IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union

IHMVCU is 120,000 members strong and has $1.2B in assets, making us the largest credit union in the Quad Cities region, and the fifth-largest credit union in Illinois. Our growth is a direct result of the trust in our member's place in us and the advantages we provide to them. For more information, visit IHMVCU.org.

About GHS Federal Credit Union

GHS Federal Credit Union has 3 locations in the Binghamton, NY area, nearly $150 million in assets and more than 17,000 members. For more information, visit GHSFCU.com.

For more information, please contact:

Andrew Turner

[email protected]

Related Links

LoanStar Homepage

SOURCE LoanStar Technologies
FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- For the second year in a row, the Roofing Contractors Association of South Florida donated $100,000 to Make-a-Wish Foundation Southern Florida; making RCASF the largest non-corporate contributor to the foundation.

Tournament Committee: Luke Turner, OMG; Ryan Toimil, Beacon Roofing Supply; Wanda Trouba, VP, Make-a-Wish S. Fla.; Bridget Keller, RCASF; Pablo Acanda, Tropical Roofing Supply; Anthony Utter, GAF; Wendy Harvest, RCASF; Gene Fall, Committee Chairman, Certified Roofing; Corey Daley, Daley Brothers Roofing; Dave Clark, Beacon Roofing Supply; Erica Bergeron, Gulfeagle Supply; Lewis Buckner, Johns Manville; Lynne Johnston, Earl W. Johnston Roofing; & Norm Wedderburn, President, Make-A-Wish S. Fla. Signature Sponsors: Left to right Barry & Gail Birenbaum, ABC Supply; John Chase, Chase Roofing; Wendy Harvest, RCASF; Anthony Utter, GAF; Donna Eberly, Empire Roofing; Bob Fitzgerald, Weather-Tech Roofing; Gene Fall, Certified Roofing; Mike Daley, Hi-Tech Roofing; Lee Pugh, Spec Building Materials; Steve Mallek, CJM Roofing; Earl & Lynne Johnston, Earl W. Johnston Roofing; and Rob & Dora Foote, Frank H. Furman Insurance. Missing from Photo: Frank & Audrey Seeber, Seeber Roofing

The Roofing Contractors Association of South Florida is composed of charitable contractors and associate members who work together for the benefit of children struggling with life threatening illness in our community. In addition to the $100,000 awarded to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, RCASF contributed $15,000 to the International Game Fish Association's Junior Angler Division. (IGFA)

This year's Fishing Tournament was held at Whale Harbor Marina and Event Center in Islamorada, Florida on June 9th. The Awards Ceremony was held at the IGFA on August 1st. Norm Wedderburn, CEO & President of the Make-A-Wish Foundation Southern Florida said, "RCASF truly believes in our wish granting mission. Because of this year's fishing tournament, we will grant 20 transformational wishes for local children who have critical illnesses. We are very grateful to RCASF for their continued support."

"We are inspired by the work Make-A-Wish does to brighten the lives of children diagnosed with critical illnesses," said Gene Fall, President of Certified Roofing & RCASF Fishing Tournament Committee Chairman. "We understand the important role emotional health plays in overcoming illness. We are proud to support programs that can provide hope, inspiration and happiness, especially in the lives of children." As a non-profit receiving no government funding, Make-A-Wish relies on the support of donors to make wish granting possible.

In 2015, the RCASF Fishing Tournament Committee initiated their Signature Sponsor Program with Earl W. Johnston Roofing gifting $5000 or 'one wish' to a child in need. For the second year in a row, the program expanded to eleven Signature Sponsors each donating one 'wish': Certified Roofing, Chase Roofing & Contracting, CJM Roofing, Earl W. Johnston Roofing, Empire Roofing Companies, Frank H. Furman Insurance, Inc., Hi-Tech Roofing & Sheet Metal, Seeber Roofing, Spec Building Materials, Weather-Tech Roofing, and Barry & Gail Birenbaum/Anthony Utter & Wendy Harvest.

Additionally, a group donation for a Signature Sponsorship was achieved when Anthony Utter & Lynne Johnston called for 50 people to walk forward with $100 each during the Tournament Banquet. "What a sight it was to see a room full of roofing contractors, local distributors and vendors all running to the stage to donate $100 to help these children who are facing a health crisis," said Dave Clark, District Manager, Beacon Roofing Supply & Senior Tournament Committee Member.

The RCASF Fishing Committee has already begun planning for next year's tournament on June 8, 2019 with the goal of brightening the lives of even more children. They encourage donations of fishing related items for auction and financial sponsorships. If you would like to contribute, please contact RCASF.

Contact:

Wendy Harvest, RCASF Executive Director

[email protected]

(954) 558-4982

SOURCE RCASF
STAINES-UPON-THAMES, United Kingdom, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Mallinckrodt plc (NYSE: MNK), a leading global specialty pharmaceutical company, today reported results for the three months ended June 29, 2018. Unless otherwise noted, the quarter comparisons are to the prior year comparable three months ended June 30, 2017.

Net sales were $631.7 million in the quarter as compared to $600.1 million, up 5.3%, or 5.0% on a constant-currency basis.

GAAP gross profit was $317.0 million with gross profit as a percentage of net sales of 50.2%, compared with 53.3%, primarily due to recent acquisitions. Adjusted gross profit was $531.2 million, compared with $489.6 million. Adjusted gross profit as a percentage of net sales was 84.1% versus 81.6%.

"We are pleased with our overall results for the quarter, which built on a solid first quarter performance. With this, and with continued strong execution, our confidence has increased on the outlook for 2018 and we are raising guidance for the fiscal year," said Mark Trudeau, President and Chief Executive Officer, Mallinckrodt. "We continue to see good performance across our hospital products, especially INOMAX and OFIRMEV. H.P. Acthar Gel performed essentially as expected in the quarter, and we were pleased with the positive preliminary data related to the drug in rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis presented in the quarter. Additionally, we are making strong progress and are ahead of our expectations in reducing debt."

Trudeau continued, "We look forward to further H.P. Acthar Gel data updates in coming quarters supporting our efforts to ensure appropriate patient access. Likewise, across our development portfolio we continue to make progress and look forward to other upcoming data reports, including the anticipated readout of VTS-270 top-line results in the near term."

GAAP selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses were $164.3 million or 26.0% of net sales, as compared to $214.6 million, or 35.8%, resulting primarily from the benefits of 2017 restructuring activities, benefits from recent acquisition synergies and fair value adjustments to contingent consideration. Adjusted SG&A expenses were $190.2 million or 30.1% of net sales, compared with $208.8 million or 34.8%.

Research and development expenses were $81.3 million or 12.9% of net sales, as compared to $52.3 million or 8.7%, resulting from increased pipeline investment and in-line portfolio data generation.

Income tax benefit was $53.4 million, for an effective tax rate of 65.5%. The adjusted effective tax rate was 10.0%.

GAAP diluted loss per share results from continuing operations was $0.34 compared with income per share from continuing operations of $0.19. Adjusted diluted earnings per share were $1.78 versus $1.36.

Six-Month Fiscal 2018 Results

Net sales were $1,204.3 million, up 3.8% compared with $1,160.1 million. The increase is primarily attributed to strength in the hospital products and the addition of AMITIZA (lubiprostone).

On a GAAP basis, loss from continuing operations was $167.9 million, compared with a loss of $122.1 million. Diluted loss per share from continuing operations was $0.84 compared with loss per share of $0.26.

Adjusted net income was $261.5 million, compared with $241.7 million. Adjusted diluted earnings per share were $3.08 compared with $2.39.

SPECIALTY BRANDS QUARTERLY SEGMENT RESULTS

Net sales for the segment in the second quarter 2018 were $631.7 million.

H.P. Acthar Gel (repository corticotropin injection) net sales were $293.2 million , an 8.2% decrease over $319.4 million , resulting from the residual impact of previously reported patient withdrawal issues.

, an 8.2% decrease over , resulting from the residual impact of previously reported patient withdrawal issues. INOMAX (nitric oxide) gas, for inhalation, net sales were $131.0 million , up 4.4%, over $125.5 million , due to continued strong demand.

, up 4.4%, over , due to continued strong demand. OFIRMEV (acetaminophen) injection net sales were $85.6 million compared with $75.7 million , an increase of 13.1%, benefiting from continued strong demand.

compared with , an increase of 13.1%, benefiting from continued strong demand. Therakos  immunology platform net sales were $56.8 million compared with $51.2 million , an increase of 10.9%, or 8.7% on a constant-currency basis.

immunology platform net sales were compared with , an increase of 10.9%, or 8.7% on a constant-currency basis. AMITIZA net sales were $48.0 million .

LIQUIDITY

Mallinckrodt's cash provided by operating activities was $244.0 million with free cash flow of $211.2 million.

Delivering on its commitment to focus on reducing debt, during the quarter the company reduced total debt by $460.2 million, primarily comprised of the $300.0 million maturity of the April 2018 notes and $175.0 million in repayments on its revolving credit facility, offset partially by a $20.4 million increase in the receivable securitization. The company also repurchased 0.7 million shares in the quarter for $10.0 million.

The company closed the second quarter with a cash balance of $235.7 million.

Mallinckrodt remains focused on debt reduction throughout the remainder of 2018. Subsequent to the quarter close, the company repaid an additional $75.0 million on the revolving credit facility, leaving the current remaining credit facility balance at $375.0 million. The company's current cash balance is in excess of $200 million.

2018 FINANCIAL GUIDANCE UPDATE

Based on its second quarter performance and continued commitment to strong execution, the company is raising its net sales and adjusted diluted earnings per share guidance for fiscal 2018. Guidance for net interest expense and adjusted effective tax rate remains unchanged.

Metric (excluding foreign currency impact) 2018 Guidance (original) 2018 Guidance (updated) Total net sales for continuing operations Increase 3% to 6% Increase 4% to 7% Adjusted diluted earnings per share $6.00 to $6.50 $6.50 to $6.90

CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST

Mallinckrodt will hold a conference call on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018, beginning at 8:30 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time. This call can be accessed in three ways:

At the Mallinckrodt website: http://www.mallinckrodt.com/investors .

website: . By telephone: For both listen-only participants and those who wish to take part in the question-and-answer portion of the call, the telephone dial-in number in the U.S. is (877) 359-9508. For participants outside the U.S., the dial-in number is (224) 357-2393. Callers will need to provide the Conference ID of 8438559.

Through an audio replay: A replay of the call will be available beginning at 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday , Aug. 7, 2018, and ending at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday , Aug. 21, 2018. Dial-in numbers for U.S.-based participants are (855) 859-2056 or (800) 585-8367. Participants outside the U.S. should use the replay dial-in number of (404) 537-3406. All callers will be required to provide the Conference ID of 8438559.

ABOUT MALLINCKRODT

Mallinckrodt is a global business that develops, manufactures, markets and distributes specialty pharmaceutical products and therapies. Areas of focus include autoimmune and rare diseases in specialty areas like neurology, rheumatology, nephrology, pulmonology and ophthalmology; immunotherapy and neonatal respiratory critical care therapies; analgesics and gastrointestinal products. To learn more about Mallinckrodt, visit www.mallinckrodt.com .

Mallinckrodt uses its website as a channel of distribution of important company information, such as press releases, investor presentations and other financial information. It also uses its website to expedite public access to time-critical information regarding the company in advance of or in lieu of distributing a press release or a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) disclosing the same information. Therefore, investors should look to the Investor Relations page of the website for important and time-critical information. Visitors to the website can also register to receive automatic e-mail and other notifications alerting them when new information is made available on the Investor Relations page of the website.

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This press release contains financial measures, including adjusted net income, adjusted diluted earnings per share, adjusted gross profit, adjusted SG&A, net sales growth on a constant-currency basis, adjusted effective tax rate, and free cash flow, which are considered "non-GAAP" financial measures under applicable SEC rules and regulations.

Adjusted net income, adjusted gross profit and adjusted SG&A represent amounts prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (GAAP) and adjusted for certain items that management believes are not reflective of the operational performance of the business. The adjustments for these items are on a pre-tax basis for adjusted gross profit and adjusted SG&A and on an after-tax basis for adjusted net income. Adjustments to GAAP amounts include, as applicable to each measure, amortization; restructuring and related charges, net; inventory step-up expenses; discontinued operations; changes in fair value of contingent consideration obligations; acquisition-related expenses; pension settlement charges; deferred tax benefits recognized upon reductions to intercompany installment notes created by internal sales of acquired intangible assets offset by deferred tax expense associated with the impact of the 2017 legal entity reorganization; and other items identified by the company. Adjusted diluted earnings per share represent adjusted net income divided by the number of diluted shares.

The adjusted effective tax rate is calculated as the income tax effects on continuing and discontinued operations plus the income tax impact included in Mallinckrodt's reconciliation of net income, divided by income from continuing and discontinued operations plus the pre-tax, non-income, tax-related adjustments included in its reconciliation of adjusted net income (excluding dilutive share impact). The income tax impact item included in its reconciliation of adjusted net income primarily represents the tax impact of adjustments between net income and adjusted net income as well as deferred tax benefits recognized upon reductions to intercompany installment notes created by internal sales of acquired intangible assets offset by deferred tax expense associated with the impact of the 2017 legal entity reorganization

Net sales growth on a constant-currency basis measures the change in net sales between current- and prior-year periods using a constant currency, the exchange rate in effect during the applicable prior-year period.

Free cash flow for the second quarter represents net cash provided by operating activities of $244.0 million less capital expenditures of $32.8 million, each as prepared in accordance with GAAP. Free cash flow for the six-month period represents net cash provided by operating activities of $261.8 million less capital expenditures of $67.1 million, each as prepared in accordance with GAAP.

The company has provided these adjusted financial measures because they are used by management, along with financial measures in accordance with GAAP, to evaluate the company's operating performance. In addition, the company believes that they will be used by certain investors to measure Mallinckrodt's operating results. Management believes that presenting these adjusted measures provides useful information about the company's performance across reporting periods on a consistent basis by excluding items that the company does not believe are indicative of its core operating performance. These adjusted measures should be considered supplemental to and not a substitute for financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP. The company's definition of these adjusted measures may differ from similarly titled measures used by others.

Because adjusted financial measures exclude the effect of items that will increase or decrease the company's reported results of operations, management strongly encourages investors to review the company's consolidated financial statements and publicly filed reports in their entirety. A reconciliation of certain of these historical adjusted financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures is included in the tables accompanying this release.

Further information regarding non-GAAP financial measures can be found on the Investor Relations page of the company's website.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS RELATED TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements in this document that are not strictly historical, including statements regarding future financial condition and operating results, economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Mallinckrodt's businesses and any other statements regarding events or developments the company believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future, may be "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and involve a number of risks and uncertainties.

There are a number of important factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those suggested or indicated by such forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. These factors include risks and uncertainties related to, among other things: general economic conditions and conditions affecting the industries in which Mallinckrodt operates; the commercial success of Mallinckrodt's products; Mallinckrodt's ability to realize anticipated growth, synergies and cost savings from acquisitions; conditions that could necessitate an evaluation of Mallinckrodt's goodwill and/or intangible assets for possible impairment; changes in laws and regulations; Mallinckrodt's ability to successfully integrate acquisitions of operations, technology, products and businesses generally and to realize anticipated growth, synergies and cost savings; Mallinckrodt's and Mallinckrodt's licensers' ability to successfully develop or commercialize new products; Mallinckrodt's and Mallinckrodt's licensers' ability to protect intellectual property rights; Mallinckrodt's ability to receive procurement and production quotas granted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; customer concentration; Mallinckrodt's reliance on certain individual products that are material to its financial performance; cost containment efforts of customers, purchasing groups, third-party payers and governmental organizations; the reimbursement practices of a small number of public or private insurers; pricing pressure on certain of Mallinckrodt's products due to legal changes or changes in insurers' reimbursement practices resulting from recent increased public scrutiny of healthcare and pharmaceutical costs; limited clinical trial data for H.P. Acthar Gel; complex reporting and payment obligations under healthcare rebate programs; Mallinckrodt's ability to navigate price fluctuations; future changes to U.S. and foreign tax laws; Mallinckrodt's ability to achieve expected benefits from restructuring activities; complex manufacturing processes; competition; product liability losses and other litigation liability; ongoing governmental investigations; material health, safety and environmental liabilities; retention of key personnel; conducting business internationally; the effectiveness of information technology infrastructure; and cybersecurity and data leakage risks.

These and other factors are identified and described in more detail in the "Risk Factors" section of Mallinckrodt's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2017. The forward-looking statements made herein speak only as of the date hereof and Mallinckrodt does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

1 Generally accepted accounting principles in the United States

CONTACTS

Investor Relations

Daniel J. Speciale, CPA

Investor Relations and Strategy Officer

314-654-3638

[email protected]

Media

Rhonda Sciarra

Senior Communications Manager

908-238-6765

[email protected]

Meredith Fischer

Chief Public Affairs Officer

908-997-9294

[email protected]

MALLINCKRODT PLC CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (unaudited, in millions, except per share data)













Three Months Ended

June 29,

2018 Percent of

Net sales

June 30,

2017 Percent of

Net sales Net sales $ 631.7

100.0 %

$ 600.1

100.0 % Cost of sales 314.7

49.8



280.4

46.7

Gross profit 317.0

50.2



319.7

53.3

Selling, general and administrative expenses 164.3

26.0



214.6

35.8

Research and development expenses 81.3

12.9



52.3

8.7

Restructuring charges, net 58.7

9.3



0.6

0.1

Losses on divestiture 





2.1

0.3

Operating income 12.7

2.0



50.1

8.3

Interest expense (95.1)

(15.1)



(92.2)

(15.4)

Interest income 1.4

0.2



0.6

0.1

Other (expense) income, net (0.5)

(0.1)



6.3

1.0

Loss from continuing operations before income taxes (81.5)

(12.9)



(35.2)

(5.9)

Income tax benefit (53.4)

(8.5)



(53.6)

(8.9)

(Loss) income from continuing operations (28.1)

(4.4)



18.4

3.1

Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes 43.7

6.9



44.4

7.4

Net income $ 15.6

2.5 %

$ 62.8

10.5 %











Basic earnings per share:









(Loss) income from continuing operations $ (0.34)





$ 0.19



Income from discontinued operations 0.53





0.45



Net income 0.19





0.64















Basic weighted-average shares outstanding 83.2





98.5















Diluted earnings per share:









(Loss) income from continuing operations $ (0.34)





$ 0.19



Income from discontinued operations 0.53





0.45



Net income 0.19





0.64















Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 83.2





98.7





MALLINCKRODT PLC NON-GAAP MEASURES (unaudited, in millions except per share data)

























Three Months Ended

June 29, 2018

June 30, 2017

Gross

profit SG&A Net

income

Diluted

net

income

per

share (3)

Gross

profit SG&A Net

income

Diluted

net

income

pershare GAAP $ 317.0

$ 164.3

$ 15.6



$ 0.19



$ 319.7

$ 214.6

$ 62.8



$ 0.64

Adjustments:





















Intangible asset amortization 182.6

(1.7)

184.3



2.21



167.0

(2.3)

169.3



1.72

Restructuring and related charges, net (1) 0.1



58.8



0.70





(0.4)

1.0



0.01

Inventory step-up expense 31.5



31.5



0.38



2.9



2.9



0.03

Income from discontinued operations 



(43.7)



(0.52)







(44.4)



(0.45)

Change in contingent consideration fair value 

27.5

(27.5)



(0.33)





(2.0)

2.0



0.02

Acquisition related expenses 

0.1

(0.1)









(1.1)

1.1



0.01

Intrathecal divestiture 















2.1



0.02

Income taxes (2) 



(70.0)



(0.84)







(63.0)



(0.64)

As adjusted $ 531.2

$ 190.2

$ 148.9



$ 1.78



$ 489.6

$ 208.8

$ 133.8



$ 1.36

























Percent of net sales 84.1 % 30.1 % 23.6 %





81.6 % 34.8 % 22.3 %





















































(1) Includes pre-tax accelerated depreciation.



(2) Includes tax effects of above adjustments, as well as certain installment sale transactions and other intercompany transactions.



(3) In periods where losses from continuing operations are incurred, potential ordinary shares outstanding are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share, prepared in accordance with GAAP, as they would be anti-dilutive. These dilutive shares are included in the calculation of adjusted diluted earnings per share if dilutive to adjusted net income. As a result, the adjusted diluted earnings per share utilized a weighted average share count of 83.5 shares.

MALLINCKRODT PLC SELECT PRODUCT LINE NET SALES AND CONSTANT-CURRENCY GROWTH (unaudited, in millions)





















Three Months Ended













June 29,

2018

June 30,

2017

Percent

change

Currency

impact

Constant-

currency

growth Specialty Brands

















H.P. Acthar Gel $ 293.2



$ 319.4



(8.2) %

 %

(8.2) % Inomax 131.0



125.5



4.4







4.4

Ofirmev 85.6



75.7



13.1







13.1

Therakos 56.8



51.2



10.9



2.2



8.7

Amitiza 48.0

















BioVectra 11.3



10.5



7.6



3.6



4.0

Other 5.8



17.8



(67.4)



1.8



(69.2)

Specialty Brands Total $ 631.7



$ 600.1



5.3 %

0.3 %

5.0 %

MALLINCKRODT PLC CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (unaudited, in millions, except per share data)













Six Months Ended

June 29,

2018 Percent of

Net sales

June 30,

2017 Percent of

Net sales Net sales $ 1,204.3

100.0 %

$ 1,160.1

100.0 % Cost of sales 610.5

50.7



540.3

46.6

Gross profit 593.8

49.3



619.8

53.4

Selling, general and administrative expenses 356.7

29.6



432.2

37.3

Research and development expenses 145.4

12.1



97.3

8.4

Restructuring charges, net 81.8

6.8



10.9

0.9

Gains on divestiture 





(57.0)

(4.9)

Operating income 9.9

0.8



136.4

11.8

Interest expense (186.5)

(15.5)



(186.4)

(16.1)

Interest income 4.6

0.4



1.5

0.1

Other income (expense), net 4.1

0.3



(73.6)

(6.3)

Loss from continuing operations before income taxes (167.9)

(13.9)



(122.1)

(10.5)

Income tax benefit (96.8)

(8.0)



(95.6)

(8.2)

Loss from continuing operations (71.1)

(5.9)



(26.5)

(2.3)

Income from discontinued operations, net of income taxes 68.7

5.7



488.5

42.1

Net (loss) income $ (2.4)

(0.2) %

$ 462.0

39.8 %











Basic earnings per share:









Loss from continuing operations $ (0.84)





$ (0.26)



Income from discontinued operations 0.81





4.84



Net (loss) income (0.03)





4.58















Basic weighted-average shares outstanding 84.7





100.9



Diluted earnings per share:









Loss from continuing operations $ (0.84)





$ (0.26)



Income from discontinued operations 0.81





4.84



Net (loss) income (0.03)





4.58















Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 84.7





100.9





MALLINCKRODT PLC NON-GAAP MEASURES (unaudited, in millions except per share data)

























Six Months Ended

June 29, 2018

June 30, 2017

Gross

profit SG&A Net

(loss)

income

Diluted

net

(loss)

income

per

share (3)

Gross

profit SG&A Net

income

Diluted

net

income

per

share (3) GAAP $ 593.8

$ 356.7

$ (2.4)



$ (0.03)



$ 619.8

$ 432.2

$ 462.0



$ 4.58

Adjustments:





















Intangible asset amortization 357.3

(3.3)

360.6



4.25



334.5

(4.6)

339.1



3.35

Restructuring and related charges, net (1) 0.1



81.9



0.96





(1.4)

12.3



0.12

Inventory step-up expense 48.5



48.5



0.57



5.9



5.9



0.06

Income from discontinued operations 



(68.7)



(0.81)







(488.5)



(4.83)

Change in contingent consideration fair value 

29.1

(29.1)



(0.34)





(0.2)

0.2





Acquisition related expenses 

(3.1)

3.1



0.04





(1.1)

1.1



0.01

Debt refinancing 















10.0



0.10

Pension settlement charge 















69.2



0.68

Intrathecal divestiture 















(57.0)



(0.56)

Gain on repurchase of debt 



(6.5)



(0.08)













Income taxes (2) 



(125.9)



(1.48)







(112.6)



(1.11)

As adjusted $ 999.7

$ 379.4

$ 261.5



$ 3.08



$ 960.2

$ 424.9

$ 241.7



$ 2.39

























Percent of net sales 83.0 % 31.5 % 21.7 %





82.8 % 36.6 % 20.8 %





















































(1) Includes pre-tax accelerated depreciation.



(2) Includes tax effects of above adjustments, as well as certain installment sale transactions and other intercompany transactions.



(3) In periods where losses from continuing operations are incurred, potential ordinary shares outstanding are excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share, prepared in accordance with GAAP, as they would be anti-dilutive. These dilutive shares are included in the calculation of adjusted diluted earnings per share if dilutive to adjusted net income. As a result, the adjusted diluted earnings per share for the six months ended June 29, 2018 and June 30, 2017 utilized a weighted average share count of 84.9 shares and 101.2 shares, respectively.

MALLINCKRODT PLC SELECT PRODUCT LINE NET SALES AND CONSTANT-CURRENCY GROWTH (unaudited, in millions)





















Six Months Ended













June 29,

2018

June 30,

2017

Percent

change

Currency

impact

Constant-

currency

growth Specialty Brands

















H.P. Acthar Gel $ 537.0



$ 591.2



(9.2) %

 %

(9.2) % Inomax 270.8



253.9



6.7







6.7

Ofirmev 167.6



149.1



12.4







12.4

Therakos 114.2



102.4



11.5



3.2



8.3

Amitiza 71.0

















BioVectra 21.8



20.4



6.9



4.1



2.8

Other 21.9



43.1



(49.2)



1.9



(51.1)

Specialty Brands Total $ 1,204.3



$ 1,160.1



3.8 %

0.4 %

3.4 %

MALLINCKRODT PLC CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (unaudited, in millions)









June 29,

2018

December 29,

2017 Assets





Current Assets:





Cash and cash equivalents $ 235.7



$ 1,260.9

Accounts receivable, net 337.6



275.4

Inventories 184.4



128.7

Prepaid expenses and other current assets 135.6



74.7

Notes receivable 



154.0

Current assets held for sale 1,112.5



391.5

Total current assets 2,005.8



2,285.2

Property, plant and equipment, net 430.1



413.2

Goodwill 3,676.7



3,482.7

Intangible assets, net 8,769.0



8,261.0

Long-term assets held for sale 



742.7

Other assets 168.2



156.2

Total Assets $ 15,049.8



$ 15,341.0









Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity





Current Liabilities:





Current maturities of long-term debt $ 22.2



$ 313.7

Accounts payable 75.8



77.3

Accrued payroll and payroll-related costs 74.6



78.4

Accrued interest 60.4



57.0

Income taxes payable 39.9



15.5

Accrued and other current liabilities 441.0



368.5

Current liabilities held for sale 170.6



140.0

Total current liabilities 884.5



1,050.4

Long-term debt 6,335.1



6,420.9

Pension and postretirement benefits 65.3



67.1

Environmental liabilities 62.2



62.8

Deferred income taxes 809.7



749.1

Other income tax liabilities 129.2



94.1

Long-term liabilities held for sale 



22.6

Other liabilities 289.4



352.0

Total Liabilities 8,575.4



8,819.0

Shareholders' Equity:





Preferred shares 





Ordinary shares 18.5



18.4

Ordinary shares held in treasury at cost (1,619.1)



(1,564.7)

Additional paid-in capital 5,508.9



5,492.6

Retained earnings 2,587.8



2,588.6

Accumulated other comprehensive loss (21.7)



(12.9)

Total Shareholders' Equity 6,474.4



6,522.0

Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity $ 15,049.8



$ 15,341.0



MALLINCKRODT PLC CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (unaudited, in millions)









Six Months Ended

June 29,

2018

June 30,

2017 Cash Flows From Operating Activities:





Net (loss) income $ (2.4)



$ 462.0

Adjustments to reconcile net cash from operating activities:





Depreciation and amortization 397.1



406.0

Share-based compensation 16.4



31.8

Deferred income taxes (101.0)



(157.6)

Gain on divestiture 



(419.1)

Other non-cash items (19.0)



32.4

Changes in assets and liabilities, net of the effects of acquisitions:





Accounts receivable, net (21.8)



(52.6)

Inventories 18.4



(8.5)

Accounts payable 2.1



(10.7)

Income taxes 7.4



12.5

Other (35.4)



(73.7)

Net cash from operating activities 261.8



222.5

Cash Flows From Investing Activities:





Capital expenditures (67.1)



(101.6)

Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (699.9)





Proceeds from divestiture, net of cash 298.3



576.9

Other 12.4



(9.9)

Net cash from investing activities (456.3)



465.4

Cash Flows From Financing Activities:





Issuance of external debt 657.2



40.0

Repayment of external debt and capital lease obligation (1,392.8)



(332.8)

Debt financing costs (12.0)



(13.0)

Proceeds from exercise of share options 



3.9

Repurchase of shares (56.8)



(380.8)

Other (24.9)



(19.5)

Net cash from financing activities (829.3)



(702.2)

Effect of currency rate changes on cash (1.2)



1.6

Net change in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (1,025.0)



(12.7)

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period 1,279.1



361.1

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period $ 254.1



$ 348.4









Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 235.7



$ 330.2

Restricted cash included in other assets at end of period 18.4



18.2

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period $ 254.1



$ 348.4





















SOURCE Mallinckrodt plc

Related Links

http://www.mallinckrodt.com


CLEVELAND, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The 16th episode of McDonald Hopkins' podcast series MH Business Exchange has been released.

During the episode titled "Key issues in environmental law: The Clean Water Act, the Clean Power Plan and more," Cleveland attorney John Heer and host Mike Witzke discuss some of today's hot issues in environmental law. These topics include the jurisdiction of the federal government in the Clean Water Act, what "waters of the United States" actually means, the Clean Power Plan and the impact deregulation in the Trump era has made on the practice of environmental law.

To listen to this and past episodes of MH Business Exchange, visit mcdonaldhopkins.com/podcasts. You can also listen to episodes by subscribing to MH Business Exchange on iTunes, Stitcher, SoundCloud, Google Play and TuneIn.

CONTACT:

David Carducci

McDonald Hopkins LLC

Phone: 216.348.5814

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE McDonald Hopkins

Related Links

http://www.mcdonaldhopkins.com


PUNE, India, August 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ --

According to a new market research report "Microarray Analysis Market by Product & Service (Consumables, Instrument, Software, Services), Type (DNA, Protein Microarray), Application (Research), End User (Diagnostic Laboratories, Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies) - Global Forecast to 2023", published by MarketsandMarkets, the market is expected to reach USD 5.52 billion by 2023 from USD 3.82 billion in 2018, at a CAGR of 7.6%.

(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/660509/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg )

Browse 63 market data Tables and 31 Figures spread through 115 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Microarray Analysis Market"

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/microarray-analysis-market-55253403.html

Early buyers will receive 10% customization on this report

The increasing incidence of cancer, growth in funding for genomic and proteomic research, and growing application areas of microarrays are major factors driving the growth of the Microarray Analysis Market.

Consumables are expected to account for the largest market share in 2018

On the basis of product and services, the Microarray Analysis Market is segmented into consumables, software and services, and instruments. In 2018, the consumables segment is expected to account for the largest share of the global Microarray Analysis Market. The large share of this market segment can be attributed to the growing applications of microarray in various fields and the regular, repeated, & bulk purchases of consumables.

DNA microarray is estimated to account for the largest share of the Microarray Analysis Market in 2018

By type, the Microarray Analysis Market has been segmented into DNA microarrays, protein microarrays, and other microarrays. In 2018, the DNA microarrays segment is expected to account for the largest share of the Microarray Analysis Market due to the use of DNA microarrays in various applications such as drug discovery, genomic and cancer research, personalized medicine, and genetic disease diagnosis.

The drug discovery segment is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period

The application segment is further segmented into research applications, drug discovery, disease diagnostics, and other applications. The drug discovery segment is estimated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Microarrays analysis has multiple applications in drug discovery. It helps to measure the expression patterns of thousands of genes to identify appropriate targets for therapeutic intervention. Microarrays are also an integral part of therapeutic drug discovery, optimization, and clinical validation as they help to prioritize a few genes as potential therapeutic targets.

Ask for PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownload.asp?id=55253403

North America is estimated to command the largest share of the market in 2018

Based on region, the Microarray Analysis Market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Rest of the World (RoW). In 2018, North America is expected to account for the largest share of the global Microarray Analysis Market. The increasing incidence of cancer and genetic diseases along with growth in the funding made available for genomics and proteomics research in this region are key factors supporting the growth of the Microarray Analysis Market in North America.

Key players in the Microarray Analysis Market include Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. (US), Agilent Technologies, Inc. (US), Molecular Devices (US), PerkinElmer Inc. (US), Illumina, Inc. (US), GE Healthcare (US), and Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc. (US).

Know more about the Microarray Analysis Market:

https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/microarray-analysis-market-55253403.html

About MarketsandMarkets

MarketsandMarkets provides quantified B2B research on 30,000 high growth niche opportunities/threats which will impact 70% to 80% of worldwide companies' revenues. Currently servicing 7500 customers worldwide including 80% of global Fortune 1000 companies as clients. Almost 75,000 top officers across eight industries worldwide approach MarketsandMarkets for their painpoints around revenues decisions.

Our 850 fulltime analyst and SMEs at MarketsandMarkets are tracking global high growth markets following the "Growth Engagement Model - GEM". The GEM aims at proactive collaboration with the clients to identify new opportunities, identify most important customers, write "Attack, avoid and defend" strategies, identify sources of incremental revenues for both the company and its competitors. MarketsandMarkets now coming up with 1,500 MicroQuadrants (Positioning top players across leaders, emerging companies, innovators, strategic players) annually in high growth emerging segments. MarketsandMarkets is determined to benefit more than 10,000 companies this year for their revenue planning and help them take their innovations/disruptions early to the market by providing them research ahead of the curve.

MarketsandMarkets's flagship competitive intelligence and market research platform, "Knowledge Store" connects over 200,000 markets and entire value chains for deeper understanding of the unmet insights along with market sizing and forecasts of niche markets.

Contact:

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MarketsandMarkets INC.

630 Dundee Road

Suite 430

Northbrook, IL 60062

USA: +1-888-600-6441

Email: [email protected]



Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/microarray-analysis-market.asp

Connect with us on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/marketsandmarkets





SOURCE MarketsandMarkets
NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- National Kidney Foundation (NKF) has selected five doctors from throughout the country to be award recipients of the 2018 NKF Young Investigator Research Grant Program, which strives to improve the quality of life for people with kidney disease by funding promising young scientists in their research to discover the causes of kidney disease, prevent its progression, and improve treatment for those living with it today.

The grants are awarded in specified categories for one-year terms. They are given based upon careful and balanced peer review by an independent committee with an emphasis on the support of high-quality, clinical investigation. This year's recipients and their projects, linked for more details below, are:

Nephrologist Kevin Erickson , MD, MS, who for the second straight year, has been awarded the Southeast Texas Research Grant to further examine whether receiving regular nephrology care prior to developing end-stage renal disease (ESRD) helps patients remain employed after their kidneys fail. Dr. Erickson is an Assistant Professor, Medicine-Nephrology, Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX.

, MD, MS, has been awarded the to further examine whether receiving regular nephrology care prior to developing end-stage renal disease (ESRD) helps patients remain employed after their kidneys fail. Dr. Erickson is an Assistant Professor, Medicine-Nephrology, in Syed Ali Husain , MD, MPH, recipient of a Young Investigator Grant for research that seeks to save more lives by preventing the discarding of kidneys from deceased donors through improving the assessment of quality organs. Dr. Husain is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Columbia University Medical Center in New York. He also is Associate Director of the Nephrology Fellowship at the Columbia University Medical Center Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology.

, MD, MPH, recipient of a for research that seeks to save more lives by preventing the discarding of kidneys from deceased donors through improving the assessment of quality organs. Dr. Husain is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Medical Center in New York. He also is Associate Director of the Nephrology Fellowship at the Medical Center Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology. Maryland nephrologist Daphne H. Knicely , MD, awarded the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Grant to spearhead a vital program that seeks to sharply increase "health literacy" among patients who have chronic kidney disease. Dr. Knicely is Associate Director, Nephrology Fellowship Program at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore . She also is an Assistant Professor of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine . Dr. Knicely is collaborating on the research project with colleague Sumeska Thavarajah, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine .

nephrologist , MD, awarded the to spearhead a vital program that seeks to sharply increase "health literacy" among patients who have chronic kidney disease. Dr. Knicely is Associate Director, Nephrology Fellowship Program at in . She also is an Assistant Professor of Medicine, . Dr. Knicely is collaborating on the research project with colleague Sumeska Thavarajah, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, . New York researcher Jennifer Scherer , MD, winner of the Satellite Dialysis Clinical Investigator Grant for a pilot study testing whether palliative care (providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness) integrated with nephrology care  or standard nephrology care alone  improve outcomes for patients with kidney disease. Dr. Scherer is Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, NYU Langone Health.

researcher , MD, winner of the for a pilot study testing whether palliative care (providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness) integrated with nephrology care  or standard nephrology care alone  improve outcomes for patients with kidney disease. Dr. Scherer is Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, NYU Langone Health. Pennsylvania nephrologist Roderick Tan , MD, PhD, awarded the Edith H. Blattner Grant Young Investigator Grant for research that will utilize high-resolution ultrasound to closely examine the kidney's vital small blood vessels. Dr. Tan is Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Renal-Electrolyte, Department of Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh. He is collaborating on the study with colleague Kang Kim , PhD, Associate Professor of Medicine and Bioengineering at the University of Pittsburgh and the Heart and Vascular Institute at UPMC.

The NKF Young Investigator Research Program exists to help these and other innovative researchers to reach potentially pioneering results. "We strive to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to finding new and better ways to fight or treat kidney disease," said Joseph Vassalotti, MD, and Chief Medical Officer of the National Kidney Foundation. "Ultimately, it's about improving the lives of millions of kidney patients, so it is with great responsibility and pride that we support the vital research of these doctors."

Healthcare professionals can join NKF to receive access to tools and resources for both patients and professionals, discounts on professional education, and access to a network of thousands of individuals who treat patients with kidney disease.

Kidney Disease Facts

In the United States 30 million adults are estimated to have chronic kidney diseaseand most aren't aware of it. 1 in 3 American adults are at risk for chronic kidney disease. Risk factors for kidney disease include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and family history. People of African American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian or Pacific Islander descent are at increased risk for developing the disease. African Americans are 3 times more likely than Whites, and Hispanics are nearly 1.5 times more likely than non-Hispanics to develop end stage renal disease (kidney failure).

The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) is the largest, most comprehensive and longstanding organization dedicated to the awareness, prevention and treatment of kidney disease. For more information about NKF visit www.kidney.org

SOURCE National Kidney Foundation

Related Links

http://www.kidney.org


VANCOUVER, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - Nevsun Resources Ltd. (TSX:NSU) (NYSE AMERICAN: NSU) ("Nevsun" or the "Company") today announced that it has filed the National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report  Timok Copper-Gold Project, Serbia: Upper Zone Prefeasibility Study and Resource Estimate for the Lower Zone and is available for review under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, on EDGAR at www.sec.gov and on the Company's website at www.nevsun.com.

The Timok Lower Zone deposit, a joint venture with Freeport-McMoRan Exploration Corporation ("Freeport"), is a porphyry copper deposit with inferred mineral resources of approximately 1.7 billion tonnes, grading 0.86% copper and 0.18g/t gold containing 31.5 billion pounds of copper and 9.6 million ounces of gold, at a cutoff grade of 0.38% copper equivalent. The Timok Lower Zone ranks high among undeveloped world porphyry copper deposits in terms of size and grade and benchmarks well against planned and operating block cave mines (see Nevsun's news release dated June 26, 2018).

Qualified Persons Statement

The technical content of this press release has been reviewed by Gilles Arseneau of SRK Canada, a Qualified Person ("QP") as defined by the National Instrument 43-101. Peter Manojlovic, P.Geo., VP Exploration, is Nevsun's designated QP and has also reviewed and approved this press release. All scientific and technical information in this press release is based on information prepared by or under the supervision of those individuals.

Cautionary Notes to Investors - Resource Estimates

In accordance with applicable Canadian securities regulatory requirements, all mineral resource estimates of the Company disclosed or incorporated by reference in this news release have been prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, classified in accordance with Canadian Institute of Mining Metallurgy and Petroleum's "CIM Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves Definitions and Guidelines" (the "CIM Guidelines").

The Company uses the terms "mineral resources", and "inferred mineral resources". While those terms are recognized by Canadian securities regulatory authorities, they are not recognized by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and the SEC does not permit U.S. companies to disclose resources in their filings with the SEC.

Pursuant to the CIM Guidelines, mineral resources have a higher degree of uncertainty than mineral reserves as to their existence as well as their economic and legal feasibility. Inferred mineral resources, when compared with measured or indicated mineral resources, have the least certainty as to their existence, however, it is reasonable to expect that the majority of inferred mineral resources could be upgraded to indicated mineral resources with continued exploration. Pursuant to NI 43-101, inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of any economic analysis, including any feasibility study. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of a mineral resource exists, will ever be converted into a mineral reserve, or is or will ever be economically or legally mineable or recovered.

Forward Looking Statements

The above contains forward-looking statements or forward-looking information within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward looking statements including statements with respect to the Timok Project in Serbia (the "Timok Project"). Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, estimates of mineral grades and recovery rates; the results of future interpretation of scientific and technical information; the Timok Project's world ranking as a porphyry deposit; future exploration in the Timok Project and the potential for new porphyry systems in the Timok Project; and the development of mines in Serbia's Bor region. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "hopes", "intends", "estimated", "potential", "possible" and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions or results "will", "may", "could" or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements are statements concerning the Company's current beliefs, plans, objectives and expectations about the future. The actual achievements of the Company or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors. These risks, uncertainties and factors include general business, legal, economic, competitive, political, regulatory and social uncertainties; actual results of exploration activities and economic evaluations; fluctuations in currency exchange rates; changes in project parameters; changes in costs, including labour, infrastructure, operating and production costs; future prices of copper, gold, zinc, silver and other minerals; resource estimates and variations of mineral grade or recovery rates; operating or technical difficulties in connection with exploration; land acquisition; mining method, production profile and mine plan; other development or mining activities, including the failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; performance on ore production and waste movement and improvement in mining capability; delays in exploration, development and construction activities including commencement of the decline construction as planned; changes in government legislation and regulation; the ability to maintain and renew existing licenses and permits and the ability to obtain other required licences and permits in a timely manner or at all; the ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms and in a timely manner or at all; contests over title to properties; employee relations and shortages of skilled personnel and contractors; the speculative nature of, and the risks involved in, the exploration, development and mining business including, without limitation, other risks that are more fully described in the Company's Annual Information Form for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 (the "AIF") and the Company's management discussion and analysis for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 (the "MD&A"), which are incorporated herein by reference.

The Company's forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, expectations and opinions of management on the date the statements are made and the Company assumes no obligation to update such forward-looking statements in the future, except as required by law. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements.

Further information concerning risks and uncertainties associated with these forward-looking statements and our business can be found in our AIF and MD&A, which is available on the Company's website (www.nevsun.com), filed under our profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) and on EDGAR (www.sec.gov) under cover of Form 40-F.

About Nevsun Resources Ltd.

Nevsun Resources Ltd. is the 100% owner of the high-grade copper-gold Timok Upper Zone and 60.4% owner of the Timok Lower Zone in Serbia. The Timok Lower Zone is a joint venture with Freeport-McMoRan Exploration Corporation ("Freeport") which currently owns 39.6% and upon completion of any feasibility study (on the Upper or Lower Zone), Nevsun Resources Ltd. will own 46% and Freeport will own 54%. Nevsun generates cash flow from its 60% owned copper-zinc Bisha Mine in Eritrea. Nevsun is well positioned with a strong debt-free balance sheet to grow shareholder value through advancing Timok to production.

NEVSUN RESOURCES LTD.

"Peter Kukielski"

Peter Kukielski

President & Chief Executive Officer

SOURCE Nevsun Resources Ltd.
Special initiative brings together sponsors & funders to resettle UNHCR referred refugees to Canada

OTTAWA, Aug.7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ - The University of Ottawa Refugee Hub and the Shapiro Foundation, together with Jewish Family Services Ottawa, are delighted to announce the creation of a new fund aimed at facilitating the sponsorship of up to 1,000 refugees identified by the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR).

For a limited time, qualifying Canadian groups will have the cost of sponsoring a refugee through the Blended Visa Office Referred (BVOR) program fully covered by the fund.

With a record 25.4 million refugees displaced by war and persecution, the global refugee crisis is one of the most critical and devastating challenges of our time. Canadians have consistently demonstrated generosity, compassion, and a willingness to resettle some of the world's most vulnerable people  a commitment that is particularly important when resettlement options around the world are being reduced.

As part of its annual immigration planning, the Government of Canada has approved 1,500 refugees to be resettled to Canada through the BVOR program in 2018. Under this program, the UNHCR identifies refugees to come to Canada, and the Canadian government and sponsor groups share resettlement costs. As a result of this new fund, the sponsors' portion of the financial commitment will be fully subsidized by private donors.

All refugees resettled to Canada undergo rigorous security, legal, and health checks. Once they arrive in Canada, they are welcomed and supported by their sponsorship group for a minimum of one year.

This innovative fund is being created with the generous financial support of The Shapiro Foundation and another significant Canadian donor. Funding for both start-up costs and settlement costs associated with BVOR sponsorship will be available to groups that submit applications to the fund before September 17, 2018, or until the fund is exhausted prior to the deadline.

Refugees sponsored with the support of this fund will arrive in Canada before December 31, 2018.

If you would like to sponsor a BVOR case before September 17, 2018, please contact: [email protected]. Individuals interested in supporting the mobilization of BVOR sponsors in 2018 are able to donate at: https://refugeehub.ca/donate/.

QUOTES

"The UNHCR identifies a tiny fraction of the world's refugees for resettlement, and those referred urgently need to be brought to safety. In Canada, more than 1,000 BVOR cases are at risk in 2018 if we do not mobilize Canadian sponsors. The Refugee Hub is working with sponsors and other partners across Canada to bring as many vulnerable people to safety as we can before resettlement capacity is lost. We are tremendously grateful to the Shapiro Foundation and the other significant Canadian donor involved in this project for their innovative thinking and generous contributions."

- Jennifer Bond, Managing Director, Refugee Hub.

"At a time of record high global needs and diminishing resettlement opportunities for refugees, these thousand spaces are more precious than ever. It is critical to support sponsor groups who have served as a model for welcoming refugees and by unbundling their required financial obligations, we hope they will be able to increase their 2018 resettlement commitments. I am proud to support Canada as it continues to provide leadership, innovation and solutions for refugees in this time of unprecedented crisis."

- Ed Shapiro, Trustee, The Shapiro Foundation.

ABOUT

Blended Visa Office-Referred (BVOR) Program

The Blended Visa Office-Referred (BVOR) Program matches refugees identified for resettlement by the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) with private sponsors in Canada.

The UNHCR identifies the refugees.

The Government of Canada gives up to six months of income support.

gives up to six months of income support. Private sponsors give another six months of financial support. They also give up to a year of social and emotional support.

More: https://www.unhcr.ca/sponsoring-refugees-for-resettlement-in-canada/

The Refugee Hub

The Refugee Hub was founded at the University of Ottawa in 2012. Its mission is to foster justice and human rights for refugees at local, national, and international levels through innovative research, programs and partnerships. The Hub's six flagship projects include the Refugee Sponsorship Support Program, which supports Canadian sponsors, and the Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative, which encourages and supports the adoption of community sponsorship programs in countries outside of Canada. More: www.refugeehub.ca

The Shapiro Foundation

The Shapiro Foundation, founded by Barbara and Edward Shapiro in 2001, is a U.S. charitable foundation focused on improving the lives of the world's most vulnerable populations. The foundation's primary focus is on children, refugees, and immigrants, as well as education, global health, and humanitarian aid. Support is provided for organizations in Boston and throughout the US, as well as Canada, Israel, Greece, Rwanda, Bangladesh and Liberia. More: www.theshapirofoundation.org

SOURCE The Refugee Hub

Related Links

https://refugeehub.ca/


BOULDER, Colo., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- PasswordPing, a cyber-security startup that screens online accounts for compromised credentials, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Greene as Chief Executive Officer. Mike C. Wilson, who has served in the role of CEO since founding the company in 2016, will now assume the role of Chief Technology Officer to better drive innovation and expand PasswordPing's product offerings. Mr. Greene will focus on the business side of the organization in conjunction with the Chief Operating Officer, Joshua Horwitz.

PasswordPing announces the appointment of Michael Greene as Chief Executive Officer. "PasswordPing is an innovative company with some of the brightest people I have ever worked with. We have deep expertise in the security industry and we have the best compromised credential screening product on the market," says Mike Greene, the new CEO of PasswordPing. "The opportunity ahead of us is huge: the market for compromised credential screening is nascent and rapidly expanding."

PasswordPing was created to help secure the essential password security layer for corporate websites and corporate networks. PasswordPing allows organizations to block unauthorized authentication in real time by screening logins against billions of known, compromised credentials.

"Our revenue growth at PasswordPing has been exponential since we started it in 2016 and with the increasing market demand for compromised credential screening solutions, we need to expand our team and expertise to continue this trajectory. We are excited to bring in Mike's business acumen, deep security industry background and business development expertise, which allows me to sharpen my focus on product management, product development, research and technology," commented Mike C. Wilson, Founder and CTO of PasswordPing. "Mike Greene and I have worked closely together over the years, initially at Webroot and later at a small startup, so this is a natural fit. As CEO at publicly-traded ID Watchdog, he turned the company around from the brink of insolvency to a multimillion dollar business, capping it off with a successful exit to Equifax after only 6 years at the helm. I am confident he will be able to dramatically accelerate our already healthy growth at PasswordPing."

Michael Greene is a growth-oriented CEO and General Manager with extensive experience spanning from operations to sales, in a variety of international high growth companies. Prior to PasswordPing, Mike was the CEO of ID Watchdog, an identity theft protection company that was sold to Equifax in 2017. Before ID Watchdog, Mike held senior management positions at Symantec, PC Tools, Webroot, Thompson Micromedex, Raindance and Baxter. Mike graduated with an MBA from the University of Colorado in 2000 and has a BA in Molecular Biology from CU in 1995.

"PasswordPing is an innovative company with some of the brightest people I have ever worked with. We have deep expertise in the security industry and we have the best compromised credential screening product on the market," says Mike Greene, the new CEO of PasswordPing. "The opportunity ahead of us is huge: the market for compromised credential screening is nascent and rapidly expanding. To seize this opportunity, we have to move fast, build partnerships and extend our product offerings to meet the challenges of a constantly evolving security market and threat landscape. I am truly honored to be selected as PasswordPing's CEO and I am excited about the future of this organization."

About PasswordPing:

PasswordPing's innovative compromised credential and breach notification services were created to protect corporate networks and consumer websites from unauthorized access and fraud. PasswordPing helps organizations screen user accounts for known, compromised passwords so they can block unauthorized authentication. PasswordPing Ltd. is a privately held company based in Boulder, Colorado. For more information, visit: www.passwordping.com.

Media Contact:

Kristen Ranta Haikal Wilson

[email protected]

720-924-4911

SOURCE PasswordPing

Related Links

https://www.passwordping.com/


CAYCE, S.C., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- South Carolina Electric & Gas Company ("SCE&G"), a subsidiary of SCANA Corporation (NYSE: SCG), announced today that it will appeal the Order of the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina denying SCE&G's Motion for Preliminary Injunction regarding implementation of Act 258.

Act 258 is the South Carolina law enacted in late June which has resulted in a temporary reduction of SCE&G's retail electric rates by approximately 15 percent retroactive to April 1, 2018. In addition, among other things, Act 258 supplies definitions of key terms under the Base Load Review Act that would heighten the evidence required to establish SCE&G's ability to recover its costs associated with the new nuclear project.

In connection with its appeal, SCE&G will be seeking expedited consideration from the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.

PROFILE

SCANA Corporation, headquartered in Cayce, S.C., is an energy-based holding company principally engaged, through subsidiaries, in electric and natural gas utility operations and other energy-related businesses. Information about SCANA and its businesses is available at www.scana.com.

SCE&G is a regulated public utility engaged in the generation, transmission, distribution and sale of electricity to approximately 727,000 customers in the central, southern and southwestern portions of South Carolina. The company also provides natural gas service to approximately 373,000 customers throughout South Carolina. More information about SCE&G is available at www.sceg.com.

Media Contact:

Investor Contact:



Eric Boomhower

Bryant Potter



(800) 562-9308

(803) 217-6916





SOURCE SCANA Corporation

Related Links

http://www.scana.com


| BY Kim Shaw |

Clemenger BBDO Sydney has left several staffers go including Brendan Bob Foster, head of creative technology, who joined in the agency from Google in 2014.

Forster (pictured) worked at Google for eight years, most recently as creative agency specialist.

Since joining Clemenger BBDO Forster has worked on campaigns such as the Dolmio Pepper Hacker, V Energys Wasteland with a V and the Tourism Australia Aquatic & Coastal campaign and its immersive 360 video experiences.

He is a strong believer that when technology and digital platforms are combined with great ideas magic can happen.

Says Clemenger BBDO national CEO Nick Garrett: Its no secret that were going through a period of transformation in Sydney. Weve brought in people and new capabilities to help evolve our offer and ensure were meeting our clients expectations.

The hardest part of any transformation is making these tough calls  its never easy seeing friends of the agency leave the business. Id like to thank them all for their contributions and wish them the best in their future endeavours.
SEATTLE, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Seattle Children's has opened a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell immunotherapy trial for children and young adults with relapsed or refractory non-central nervous system EGFR-expressing solid tumors. In the phase 1 trial, STRIvE-01, cancer-fighting CAR T cells will target the EGFR protein expressed in many childhood sarcoma, kidney and neuroblastoma tumors.

Solid tumors, excluding those of the brain, make up about 30 percent of all childhood cancers. Sarcoma, a cancer that develops in the bone and soft tissue; kidney malignancies, including Wilms tumor; and neuroblastoma, a tumor that forms in young nerve cells, are the most common types of non-central nervous system solid tumors diagnosed in children. Even as treatment advances have improved childhood cancer survival rates over the last several decades, these solid tumors remain among the most resistant to standard therapy when the cancer relapses or does not respond to initial treatment.

"Despite employing modern treatments that offer more intensive therapy or new drug combinations for children with solid tumors, we've been unable to improve outcomes for our highest-risk patient groups," said Dr. Katie Albert, an oncologist at Seattle Children's and lead investigator for the STRIvE-01 trial. "It is those groups that push us to come up with innovative approaches so that we can see all of our patients cured of their cancer."

While CAR T cells engineered to fight cancer have shown promise for curing childhood leukemia in clinical trials at Seattle Children's, solid tumors pose unique challenges. Solid tumors exist in protective microenvironments that help them evade the immune system, making it more difficult to keep the CAR T cells stimulated.

"In order for this therapy to be effective against solid tumors and induce remission for our patients, we have to find a way to not only get the CAR T cells into the tumor microenvironment, but also ensure they can survive and thrive there," said Albert.

To construct the CAR T cells for STRIvE-01, researchers led by Dr. Mike Jensen at the Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research at Seattle Children's Research Institute will reprogram a patient's T cells to target the abnormal EGFR protein expressed on the surface of many solid tumor cancer cells. In normal tissues, EGFR is responsible for cell growth and development. When expressed in malignant solid tumors, EGFR has been associated with more aggressive and invasive growth.

By arming the CAR T cells with an antibody known as EGFR806, researchers hope to selectively find and destroy solid tumor cells expressing EGFR with limited toxicity to normal tissues.

As Albert explained, "Normal tissue, including skin, is enriched in EGFR, so it is advantageous to equip the CAR T cells with an antibody that recognizes EGFR on tumor cells and leaves healthy cells relatively protected."

Anticipating that it will take a multi-faceted approach to overcome solid tumors, STRIvE-01 will include two sequential treatment arms. Children and young adults enrolled in the first arm will receive EGFR806 CAR T cells to first evaluate the toxicity and establish the maximum tolerated dose of the experimental therapy. Once the first arm is complete, the second arm will open. Patients in the second arm will receive CAR T cells reprogrammed to target both EGFR and CD19, a protein expressed on a subset of white blood cells called B lymphocytes.

"By including a CAR T-cell therapy that targets two proteins, we're a step ahead in addressing a known challenge with solid tumors  the cancer-fighting T cells won't hang around long enough to get to the tumor tissues and keep the cancer from coming back," said Albert. "Building on what we've learned in our trials for leukemia, our hope is that the secondary target of CD19 will constantly interact with B lymphocytes in the blood to promote the expansion and persistence of the EGFR-directed CAR T cells."

The study plans to enroll approximately 36 patients across both arms to assess the dosing, safety and tolerability of the CAR T-cell therapies. The results from STRIvE-01 will inform the clinical development of future CAR T-cell trials aimed at finding the most effective targets and therapeutic combinations for pediatric solid tumors.

"We recognize that it will likely require a range of therapeutic strategies to manipulate the immune environment enough to cure patients with hard to treat solid tumors," said Albert. "I'm excited to have the opportunity to incorporate our most advanced immunotherapy strategies into a solid tumor program that I hope will provide families the most effective and comprehensive CAR T-cell treatment options for their child's cancer."

STRIvE-01 joins a robust pipeline of T-cell immunotherapy trials underway at Seattle Children's focused on harnessing the immune system to offer better treatment options for children and young adults with cancer. Seattle Children's is dedicated to improving CAR T-cell immunotherapy for a variety of childhood cancers to the point that it helps patients achieve long-term remission  and ultimately  a cure.

The T-cell immunotherapy trials at Seattle Children's are funded in part by Strong Against Cancer, a national philanthropic initiative with worldwide implications for potentially curing childhood cancers. If you are interested in supporting the advancement of immunotherapy and cancer research, please visit Strong Against Cancer's donation page.

For more information on immunotherapy research trials at Seattle Children's, please call (206) 987-2106 or email [email protected].

About Seattle Children's

Seattle Children's mission is to provide hope, care and cures to help every child live the healthiest and most fulfilling life possible. Together, Seattle Children's Hospital, Research Institute and Foundation deliver superior patient care, identify new discoveries and treatments through pediatric research, and raise funds to create better futures for patients.

Ranked as one of the top children's hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report, Seattle Children's serves as the pediatric and adolescent academic medical center for Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho  the largest region of any children's hospital in the country. As one of the nation's top five pediatric research centers, Seattle Children's Research Institute is internationally recognized for its work in neurosciences, immunology, cancer, infectious disease, injury prevention and much more. Seattle Children's Hospital and Research Foundation works with the Seattle Children's Guild Association, the largest all-volunteer fundraising network for any hospital in the country, to gather community support and raise funds for uncompensated care and research. Join Seattle Children's bold initiative  It Starts With Yes: The Campaign for Seattle Children's  to transform children's health for generations to come.

For more information, visit seattlechildrens.org or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or on our On the Pulse blog.

Media Contact:

Lindsay Kurs

[email protected] or 206-987-5752

SOURCE Seattle Children's Hospital

Related Links

http://www.seattlechildrens.org


WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Signal Group, a leader in strategic communications, public affairs, and government relations, today announced that it has hired healthcare communications professional Michelle Baker to join the firm as an executive vice president. She will start in her new role on August 13, 2018.

With more than 20 years of public health communications and public affairs experience, Baker has counseled many pharmaceutical companies, health systems and government agencies on complex policy, brand and market communications priorities. At SIGNAL, Baker will leverage this experience in support of clients' integrated public health and healthcare technology communications, policy communications, and national advocacy coalition management strategy and thought leadership.

"Michelle's combination of leadership and real-world market experience perfectly match the caliber of professional that makes up SIGNAL's senior team," said Eric Bovim, Managing Director of the firm's communications business.

Baker joins SIGNAL from Weber Shandwick/Powell Tate where she led the firm's DC healthcare practice, overseeing a portfolio of government, industry and nonprofit clients. She has advised on many of today's most pressing health issues, including cancer, addiction, mental health, cardiovascular disease, community health, and telehealth.

"The healthcare marketplace is undergoing big changes that present opportunities and challenges for both emerging companies and industry leaders," said Baker. "I'm excited to help SIGNAL's biopharmaceutical and health tech clients navigate a growing number of consumer, commercial and regulatory issues that are evolving in real time," she added.

"Michelle's addition to the team represents added expertise and mentorship for emerging professionals," said Jessica Rihani, SIGNAL's Chief Operating Officer. "It's also an opportunity for SIGNAL to continue to grow an already robust foundation of healthcare and health tech work for industry-leading clients," Rihani added.

Prior to joining Weber Shandwick, Baker worked at Chandler Chicco Agency/inVentiv Health and Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide. She serves on the board of the Caregivers Action Network, helping mobilize support for family caregivers at a national level. A Tulane University graduate with a master's degree in Journalism from The University of Texas at Austin, Baker has supported pro bono work to promote disability-inclusive work environments as well as hurricane disaster communications.

ABOUT Signal Group

Signal Group offers world-class counsel in strategic communications, public affairs, and government relations. Advising clients across the globe, including industry-leading companies, CEOs, governments, and non-profits, SIGNAL offers tailored strategies for solving high-stakes challenges. We are a unique collection of top practitioners from our fields focused on delivering transformative outcomes for our client partners. For more information, please visit www.signaldc.com

SOURCE Signal Group

Related Links

http://www.signaldc.com


WSKQ-FM Mega 97.9FM Ranked Number One Spanish-Language Radio Station and the most listened to Spanish-Language station in the Nation, Number One in Midday with Alex Sensation regardless of Language beating all stations in New York

WXDJ-FM El Nuevo Zol 106.7FM Miami , Ranked Number One Spanish-Language Radio Station Among Adults 18-34, 18-49, and 25-54 Number One in Total Market beating all stations. "El Vacilon de la Gatita" with Betzy Vazquez the only leading female Hispanic Morning Show host ranked number two in Morning Drive Show Among Adults 25-54

, Ranked Number One Spanish-Language Radio Station Among Adults 18-34, 18-49, and 25-54 Number One in Total Market beating all stations. "El Vacilon de la Gatita" with the only leading female Hispanic Morning Show host ranked number two in Morning Drive Show Among Adults 25-54 WCMQ-FM Zeta 92.3FM Miami , Oscar Haza (Ahora con Oscar Haza ) Ranked Number One in Morning Drive Among Adults 18-49, 25-54, 35-64 Total Market Regardless of Language beating all stations

, (Ahora con ) Ranked Number One in Morning Drive Among Adults 18-49, 25-54, 35-64 Total Market Regardless of Language beating all stations KXOL-FM Mega 96.3FM Los Angeles , Ranked Number One across Spanish-Language Stations Among Adults 18-34, 18-49 Monday  Sunday

, Ranked Number One across Spanish-Language Stations Among Adults 18-34, 18-49 Monday  Sunday KLAX-FM 97.9FM La Raza Los Angeles, Ranked Number One Spanish-Language Show, Middays with "El Chikilin" Adal Loreto

WODA-FM La Nueva 94.7FM- WNOD-FM 94.1- WNOD 103.1FM Puerto Rico , Ranked Number One Among Adults 18-34 and 18-49

, Ranked Number One Among Adults 18-34 and 18-49 WODA-FM La Nueva 94.7FM- WNOD-FM 94.1- WNOD 103.1FM Puerto Rico , Ranked Number One Spanish-Language Show in Morning Drive (El Despelote) with Rocky the Kid, Among Adults 18-34, 18-49, 25-54

, Ranked Number One Spanish-Language Show in Morning Drive (El Despelote) with Rocky the Kid, Among Adults 18-34, 18-49, 25-54 WMEG-FM Mega 106.9FM, WEGM-FM 95.1FM Puerto Rico , Ranked Number One in Morning Drive Show Among Adults 25-54 with El Gangster & Funky Joe

, Ranked Number One in Morning Drive Show Among Adults 25-54 with El Gangster & Funky Joe WMEG-FM Mega 106.9FM, WEGM-FM 95.1FM Puerto Rico , Ranked Number One in Midday Among Adults 18-49 with La Garata

, Ranked Number One in Midday Among Adults 18-49 with La Garata WMEG-FM Mega 106.9FM, WEGM-FM 95.1FM Puerto Rico , Ranked Number One in Afternoon Drive Among Adults 18-34, 18-49, 25-54 with Molusco & Los Reyes de la Punta

, Ranked Number One in Afternoon Drive Among Adults 18-34, 18-49, 25-54 with Molusco & Los Reyes de la Punta SBS Puerto Rico premiered a new radio station in the Island, WRXD-FM Play 96.5FM "Dale Play a la Variedad" TOP 40 format.

AIRE Radio Networks, the largest minority certified Spanish Language radio network in the country and the official radio network of Spanish Broadcasting System, announced its competitive ratings across critical dayparts that effectively reach U.S. Hispanic consumers.

Currently, AIRE outperforms all other major Spanish Language networks by double-digit percentages across morning, mid-day and afternoon drives. AIRE covers over 94% of the U.S. Hispanic audience with over 235 affiliates; providing advertisers the unique opportunity to tailor the reach and frequency of their messaging through its portfolio of various networks.

"Across the country our radio teams continue to deliver for our audiences and partners, both on and off the air," said Albert Rodriguez COO of Spanish Broadcasting System. "These ratings reflect our commitment to continue to deliver the content our audiences seek in a medium that continues to drive engagement across platforms."

"Coast to coast, our content teams understand radio and are dedicated to serving our listeners like no one else," said Jesus Salas, EVP of Programming and Multiplatform Coordinator SBS. "From Regional Mexican, Urban, Top 40, Pop and every format in between, our team works hard to deliver the best-in-class programming our audiences want."

This historic achievement highlights the sustained dominance that broadcast radio continues to have in the daily lives of today's Hispanic consumers. The result also reinforces Nielsen's findings that terrestrial broadcast radio reaches 97% of the national Hispanic population each week.

Listeners all over the globe can live stream SBS's radio stations via the LaMusica App, available as a free download at the Apple App store and at Google's Play store. For more information please visit: https://app.lamusica.com/

Spanish Broadcasting System continues to hold the national leadership positions in the following format genres: #1 Tropical, #1 Latin Urban, as well as the #1 Spanish-Language station overall (Mega 97.9FM) with the most listeners in the nation.

Source: Nielsen Audio PPM April-May-June, July 2018, Persons 18-34, 18-49, 25-54, 35-64, Mon-Sun 6A-Mid

Source: Nielsen Audio DMA Fall 2017  HA 19-49 Mon-Fri 6-12mid.

About Spanish Broadcasting System and AIRE Radio Networks

Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. is a leading Hispanic media company that owns and operates 17 radio stations located in the top U.S. Hispanic markets of New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, San Francisco and Puerto Rico, airing the Spanish Tropical, Regional Mexican, Spanish Adult Contemporary, Top 40 and Latin Rhythmic format genres. SBS also operates AIRE Radio Networks, a national radio platform which creates, distributes and markets leading Spanish-language radio programming to over 235 affiliated stations reaching 94% of the U.S. Hispanic audience. SBS also owns MegaTV, a television operation with over-the-air, cable and satellite distribution and affiliates throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico. SBS also produces live concerts and events and owns multiple bilingual websites, including www.LaMusica.com, an online destination and mobile app providing content related to Latin music, entertainment, news and culture. For more information, visit us online at www.spanishbroadcasting.com.

SBS Media Contact:

Vladimir Gomez

[email protected]

(786) 470-1644

SOURCE Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. (SBS)

Related Links

http://www.spanishbroadcasting.com


AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- SparkCognition, a global artificial intelligence (AI) company, announced its collaboration with Siemens to deploy SparkCognition's AI solutions on MindSphere, the Internet of Things (IoT) operating system from Siemens. SparkCognition is also joining the global MindSphere Partner Program, which will further enable them to enhance operations for companies in the Industrial IoT (IIoT) market.

"SparkCognition is dedicated to accelerating business strategies with the advanced capabilities our solutions offer," said Tina Thibodeau, SparkCognition's VP of Strategic Alliances. "Partnering with Siemens and joining the MindSphere Partner Program will allow SparkCognition to enhance this mission and amplify applications in Industry 4.0."

Designed for IIoT organizations, MindSphere is an open, cloud-based platform that can connect to nearly any machine across the globe. As a leading app development environment, MindSphere also allows its customers to build, scale, and deploy customized apps that turn data into valuable insights and optimize productions.

"SparkCognition is building world-leading artificial intelligence systems that are not only improving industrial productivity and operations, but are also delivering tremendous value to the industrial market," said Paul Kaeley, SVP of Global Partner Ecosystem at Siemens PLM Software. "Adding its solutions to the MindSphere ecosystem will enable both SparkCognition and Siemens to address the critical needs of industrial organizations and further provide value to our customers."

SparkCognition's AI systems help its customers drive digital transformation and activation with its proprietary machine learning solutions. By offering its solutions to the cloud-based platform, SparkCognition's collaboration with Siemens adds artificial intelligence to the wide range of advanced capabilities available on MindSphere.

About SparkCognition:

With award-winning machine learning technology, a multinational footprint, and expert teams focused on defense, IIoT, and finance, SparkCognition builds artificial intelligence systems to advance the most important interests of society. Our customers are trusted with protecting and advancing lives, infrastructure, and financial systems across the globe. They turn to SparkCognition to help them analyze complex data, empower decision making, and transform human and industrial productivity. With our leading edge artificial intelligence platforms, our clients can adapt to a rapidly changing digital landscape and accelerate their business strategies. Learn more about SparkCognition's AI applications and why we've been featured in CNBC's 2017 Disruptor 50, and recognized two years in a row on CB Insights AI 100, by visiting www.sparkcognition.com.

Note: MindSphere is a registered trademark of Siemens AG.

For Media Inquiries:

John King

SparkCognition

[email protected]

512-956-5491

SOURCE SparkCognition

Related Links

http://sparkcognition.com


AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Timicoin/TimiHealth, the first operating blockchain designed to empower every individual through the TimiDNA platform allows you to own, control, and monetize your genetic DNA data.

TimiHealth has developed the intellectual property that will protect individuals as they upload their data to the decentralized platform delivering on its trademark branding as the leader in "Tokenized Healthcare."

There is no doubt that concerns about health care data-- particularly its security and privacyhave been escalating in recent years, said Will Lowe, founder and Managing Partner, Timicoin/TimiHealth.

The recent announcement that GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is investing $300M in 23andMe to partner on leveraging genetic DNA data for pharmaceutical drug development with a 50/50 split on future profits further highlights the need for consumer ownership of their own data (https://www.gsk.com/en-gb/media/press-releases/gsk-and-23andme-sign-agreement-to-leverage-genetic-insights-for-the-development-of-novel-medicines/).

While we all support the development of beneficial, perhaps even disease-curing drugs, the subterfuge surrounding the use of people's personal health and genetic data is deeply concerning, said Lowe.

Millions of people pay companies like 23andMe, Ancestry.com, and Helix substantial fees to obtain information regarding their heritage, genetic disposition for certain disease states, or pharmacologic compatibility with drug regimens. Unfortunately, most consumers are unaware that the personal data gleaned from such tests can then be sold to any number of research organizations for huge profitsnone of which are realized by the consumers themselves.

"TimiHealth and its TimiDNA platform is driven by a mission to remedy these inequities by enabling consumers to own, control, and secure the totality of their health data, including that about their genetic DNA. TimiHealth is built on the principles of trust, transparency and empowerment, with a goal of putting control back into the hands of the true owners of this valuable dataconsumers themselves," said Lowe.

TimiHealth's blockchain technology secures health data in an ecosystem that allows individuals to see who wants to purchase their data, to determine whether or not that data is shared and/or sold, and to actually profit from sharing their information by tokenizing and monetizing said data.

TimiHealth encourages all individuals to take immediate control of their data with an option to earn the majority of the profits from the sale of the data.

Retaking Control of your DNA Data:

First, all available data should be downloaded from each genetics company website into the secure TimiDNA blockchain platform (available August 20, 2018 at www.timicoin.io). Next, consumers should opt-out of all data sharing and marketing activities for each organization that holds their DNA data and request that it be deleted from their databases (https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-delete-dna-genetic-data-2018-5).

Starting August 20th the first 100,000 individuals who upload their DNA data to the TimiDNA private and secure platform will receive 20 Timicoins and unlike other DNA storage facilities, individuals participating in the Timicoin Giveaway will stay in total control of their DNA.

About Timicoin/TimiHealth:

The Mobile Health Record Platform provides decentralized medical records from storing to accessing instantly from anywhere in the world in a secure exchange. Timicoin/TimiHealth (Timicoin.io) is a patent-pending solution to securing patient data, while providing unprecedented portability. The company is actively working on pilot programs in the US, Mexico City and Monterrey, Mexico.

Media Contact: Adrienne Mazzone 561-750-9800 x2270; [email protected]

SOURCE TimiCoin/TimiHealth

Related Links

http://Timicoin.io


LEHI, Utah, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Vivint Solar, Inc. (NYSE: VSLR), a leading full-service residential solar provider, today announced it closed an innovative multi-party forward flow funding arrangement that includes project-level debt, a levered tax equity partnership, and the company's first cash equity investment. The transaction provides up to $327 million in total funding commitments, with an aggregate value of approximately $410 million, which is structured to generate upfront cash margin for the company for approximately 95 megawatts of future solar energy systems. This transaction is the first of its kind in the residential solar industry that incorporates a multi-party forward purchase commitment anchored by a levered tax equity partnership.

Bank of America Merrill Lynch acted in multiple roles in this transaction, including acting as sole structuring and placement agent for the cash equity and multi-draw term loan. Additionally, Bank of America Merrill Lynch acted as the sole tax equity investor. Hannon Armstrong (NYSE:HASI) is participating as the structured cash equity investor.

"This delivers another landmark financing transaction for the company in 2018, and we look forward to using this vehicle to continue to accelerate solar power adoption across the country," said Vivint Solar CEO David Bywater. "We are grateful for the continued support of Bank of America Merrill Lynch in this transaction and the faith and trust that investors continue to place in the future of our business. Hannon Armstrong's programmatic investment is a key piece of the capital structure in this transaction."

"The cash margin provided by this vehicle for a portion of our future PPA and lease assets is an important step to increase Vivint Solar's financial flexibility and to solidify a sustainable funding model for the business," said Vivint Solar's Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Capital Markets, Thomas Plagemann. "We expect similar results to selling systems directly to homeowners, allowing us to continue focusing on providing the products best suited for each homeowner."

Vivint Solar expects to raise approximately $3.37 per watt in upfront proceeds in addition to $0.41 per watt in retained value and renewal value. In addition, the company recently closed a $50 million tax equity partnership with a new investor. This multi-party forward flow funding arrangement, together with the undrawn committed capital under Vivint Solar's other tax equity partnerships, is estimated to provide funding to install more than 170 megawatts of residential solar energy systems.

"Providing solutions that aid in the adoption of renewable energy is core to Bank of America Merrill Lynch's environmental commitment. We value our relationship with Vivint Solar and Hannon Armstrong and look forward to continuing to grow the partnership," said Omer Farooq, Managing Director in Bank of America Merrill Lynch's Cross Asset Solutions and Strategies team.

"Hannon Armstrong is pleased to support Vivint Solar with capital to facilitate the continued expansion of their business," said Jeffrey Eckel, President & CEO of Hannon Armstrong.

About Vivint Solar

Vivint Solar is a leading full-service residential solar provider in the United States. With Vivint Solar, customers can power their homes with clean, renewable energy and typically achieve significant financial savings over time. Offering integrated residential solar solutions, Vivint Solar designs and installs the solar energy systems for its customers and offers monitoring and maintenance services. In addition to being able to purchase a solar energy system outright, customers may benefit from Vivint Solar's affordable, flexible financing options, power purchase agreements, or lease agreements, where available. For more information, visit www.vivintsolar.com or follow @VivintSolar on Twitter.

Note on Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding Vivint Solar's installation capacity remaining in tax equity funds, estimated retained value, and estimated retained value per watt, including the assumptions related to the calculation of the foregoing metrics. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and they will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved, if at all. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions regarding future events and business performance as of the date of this press release, and they are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that the future results, levels of activity, performance or events and circumstances reflected in those statements will be achieved or will occur, and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, Vivint Solar does not undertake and expressly disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. You should read the documents Vivint Solar has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, for more complete information about the company. These documents are available on both the EDGAR section of the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and the Investor Relations section of the company's website at investors.vivintsolar.com/.

Investor Contact

Rob Kain

Vice President of Investor Relations

855-842-1844

[email protected]

Press Contact

Helen Langan

Senior Director of Communications

385-202-6577

[email protected]

SOURCE Vivint Solar

Related Links

https://www.vivintsolar.com


WASHINGTON, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- National Capital Bank (NCB) has completed the installation of 60 solar panels on its bank building located at 316 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE. and is now ready to take advantage of renewable energy  making it the first bank in the District of Columbia to be powered by solar energy.

The solar panels, by Solar Energy World in Elkridge, Maryland, will provide some 5-8 percent of the bank's electricity needs and will create approximately 50 Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) annually that will generate savings and will result in savings from tax credits and accelerated depreciation.

"The initial motivation for installing the panels was economic, but the more we discussed the project, the more enthusiastic we became about the intrinsic value of the solar array," notes Richard B. (Randy) Anderson, Jr., President and CEO. "We see it as a statement of our mission to be a good corporate citizen serving the needs of our community, its citizens, and its businesses by employing a renewable energy source and decreasing our carbon footprint. As we explored the idea, we found that the roof of our office in the Capitol Hill community was ideal for solar panels," Anderson continued. "The building's height means that there is no shade on the roof, and the flatness facilitated the installation of the panels."

Tommy Wells, Director of DC's Department of Energy and Environment is also pleased with the installation of the solar panels on the NCB roof, especially as the District is actively promoting Sustainability Guidelines for Historic Districts. (You can find a draft of these guidelines at https://planning.dc.gov/release/draft-sustainability-guide-released-existing-and-historic-properties). Wells notes, "We're thrilled NCB has taken the initiative to install a solar array on their building, showing how any business can take advantage of renewable energy options in the District. Located within Historic Capitol Hill, this solar installation is also a great example of how next generation clean energy systems can be integrated into historic neighborhoods to achieve Mayor Bowser's citywide climate and energy goals."

The National Capital Bank of Washington was founded in 1889 and is Washington's Oldest Bank. NCB is headquartered on Capitol Hill with offices in the Friendship Heights community in Northwest D.C., and most recently the Courthouse community in Arlington, Virginia. NCB also operates residential mortgage and commercial lending offices and a wealth management services division. NCB product and service offerings include personal and business deposit accounts, robust online and mobile banking, sophisticated treasury management solutions, remote deposit capture and merchant processing  all delivered with top-rated personal service. NCB is well-positioned to serve all the banking needs of those in our community. For more information about NCB, visit www.nationalcapitalbank.com. The Bank trades under the symbol NACB.

SOURCE The National Capital Bank of Washington

Related Links

http://www.nationalcapitalbank.com


Tuesday, August 7, 2018 at 8:28AM

By Sonya Davison

Its the beginning of August and it suddently hit me, I have one kid going off to university and one off to high school. Whelp. Yes, I know were at mid-point of summer vacation and while I really dont want to rush things, I'm seriously getting the case of FOMO. Back to school shopping has begun (and even done) with some families I know. Cue the tears...mine. Particularly for the university-bound kid whos all of the sudden seems waaaay more grown up. The boy that had me carry a purse load of Hot Wheels is now driving himself and soon he'll be one of the thousands that will be moving into residence at the beginning of September.

Back to school shopping is different, as some of you may know, for university or college bound kids who will be living away from home for the first time. Living quarters will be small and theyll need the essentials. According to his university guidelines, his personal belongings should fit into a shopping cart on move in day. Okay, sure.

Weve begun shopping and mostly online to ease the process. Great for comparing deals and avoiding headaches of spending hours in malls. Some retailers have gone an extra step in making the shopping experience even pleasantWhether your kids are off to grade school or heading off to university, here are some great sites to get all your back to school shopping needs:

Bed, Bath and Beyond Canada:

Friends who have university students have mentioned this site for its well thought out layout and ease of navigation. The site offers insight into most Canadian university residents  you can look up your residence to see what is provided including size of bed in each residence building. A handy list recommends what to bring and what not to bring. Theres also a gift registry should you want to share with other family members. Free delivery over a specified amount or you can pre-order and pick up at the nearest store to the university so you wont have to take up trunk space. Website: bedbathandbeyond.ca

Amazon Canada:

Two back to school categories on Amazon Canadas site are ready for your shopping needs; Amazon Back to School and Amazon Off to University. The one-stop shops are equipped with curated product lists and deals for a seamless shopping experience. Browse by grade or most shopped categories. Post secondary students can also access all the Prime benefits for half the price with Prime Student (eligible students can also sign up for a free six-month trial to test out the fast and free shipping benefits. Prime Student members will also save 10 per cent on text book orders totally $100 or more until October 7. Website: amazon.ca

Apple:

Many students will be looking to upgrade their technology for high school, college or university. Now is the time to take advantage of educational pricing and any other special offers. Apple offers a perk for post secondary students and their parents. For example, buy a Mac or iPad Pro, get Beats as an added bonus. If youre looking to upgrade your Mac, iPad, iPhone or Apple Watch you may consider trading it in for credit towards the purchase of a new one. All the details can be found on their site. Website: apple.com

Microsoft Canada:

Microsoft has complied a top picks list for students to get them started on the right foot as soon as they hit the books. Compare the different devices to decide on what suits your needs including the Surface Laptop, Pro and Go. Students and parents can also take advantage of educational pricing on laptops and other essentials (and non-essentials like deals on select Xbox One S 500 GB Consoles) for campus life. Website: microsoft.com

EBATES.ca:

If youre online shopping anyway, you may want to compare and shop at the wildly popular Ebates.ca site where youre rewarded with cash back offers at pretty much all of your favourite retailers. Cash back percentages vary and the rewards add up quickly. Keep an eye for 2x Cash Back offers. Great back to school sites found here include Staples, GAP, Sephora, Dell Canada, Old Navy, The Body Shop, Sport Check, and Joe Fresh. Website: ebates.ca

Best Buy Canada:

Yes, you may be looking at a new laptop but dont forget about printers, power bars, smoothie blenders and other small appliances. Easy for comparison shopping across multiple brands. Site breaks down easy to shop categories. Website: bestbuy.ca

Staples Canada:

Staples has launched a Student Living Centre with a focus on student-ready furniture, supplies, tech, accessories for university living, on or off campus. This in-store (select) and online showcase features products ctered to students living in limited space. Students and parents can find all the essentials for a typical college life experience. Staples also offers a 100% price match guarantee, free shipping and the option to buy online and pick up in store. Website: staples.ca/studentliving
NEW YORK, Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- WeissLaw LLP is investigating possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law by the Board of Directors of FCB Financial Holdings, Inc. ("FCB" or the "Company") (NYSE: FCB) in connection with the proposed acquisition of the Company by Synovus Financial Corp. ("SNV") ("NYSE: SNV). Under the terms of the merger agreement, FCB shareholders will receive 1.055 shares of SNV for each FCB share they own. This represents consideration of $52.35 per share, based on SNV's August 6 trading price of price of $49.62.

WeissLaw is investigating whether FCB's Board acted to maximize shareholder value prior to entering into the agreement. Notably, at least one analyst set a target price of $63.00, or nearly $11.00 above the per-share consideration. Shortly after the acquisition announcement, analysts from both Gabelli & Company and Deutsche Bank downgraded FCB from "BUY" to "HOLD."

The acquisition will elevate SNV's growth profile and deepen its presence in the high growth Florida markets, thus propelling SNV into leadership position as a regional community bank, with an estimated $36 billion in deposits and $44 billion in assets on a pro forma basis.

Moreover, the Company recently announced positive financial results, reporting annual improvements of 23 basis points in non-performing assets ratio and a 12.3% increase year-over-year increase in total revenue.

Finally, upon completion of the transaction, SNV shareholders will hold a meager 30% of the combined company.

Given these facts, WeissLaw is investigating whether FCB's shareholders will obtain their fair and proportionate share of the Company's continued success and growth prospects. If you own FCB shares and would like more information about your rights or our investigation, or if you have information to share with us, please contact Joshua Rubin by telephone at (888) 593-4771 or by email at [email protected].

WeissLaw LLP has litigated hundreds of stockholder class and derivative actions for violations of corporate and fiduciary duties. We have recovered over a billion dollars for defrauded clients and obtained important corporate governance relief in many of these cases. If you have information or would like legal advice concerning possible corporate wrongdoing (including insider trading, waste of corporate assets, accounting fraud, or materially misleading information), consumer fraud (including false advertising, defective products, or other deceptive business practices), or anti-trust violations, please email us at [email protected] or fill out the form on our website, http://www.weisslawllp.com/fcb-financial-holdings-inc/

SOURCE WeissLaw LLP

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NEW YORK, Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- A single anonymous whistleblower will receive more than $45 million from the Commodities and Futures Trading Commission  its biggest-ever payout  for sparking the investigation into industrywide manipulation of the ISDAFIX interest-rate benchmark, an important price-setting mechanism used by the $544 trillion private derivatives market.

Robert Garson and Chris Fladgate of GS2Law, attorneys for the whistleblower, confirmed the payout in excess of $45 million is the aggregate of three separate awards made by the CFTC in relation to its ISDAFIX investigation: specifically arising from the $250 million penalty paid by Citibank in May, the $120 million penalty paid by Goldman Sachs in December 2016 and the $85 million paid by the Royal Bank of Scotland in February 2017.

The whistleblower, who remains anonymous pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act, provided crucial information helping the CFTC successfully recover more than $700 million in civil monetary penalties across six institutions relating to market manipulation, making false reports and skewing ISDAFIX submissions. Violative practices also included executing trades, at particular times, prices and volumes so as to push the market in certain directions, often at the expense of other market participants.

"By being the first to come forward, this brave individual caused a global change in reforming a market and stamping out institutional manipulation, which would have continued unabated," said Garson in a statement.

"Our client is an example of the success of the Dodd-Frank Act, where one person can make a genuine difference," said Fladgate, "saving market participants billions of dollars which will undoubtedly inspire more to come forward and keep Wall Street clean."

Garson and Fladgate also noted that, in addition to the above civil monetary penalties, ISDAFIX no longer exists and is now known as the ICE Swap Rate and administered in a completely different manner, and by different parties.

Garson and Fladgate also believe the reach of the ISDAFIX investigation has not yet concluded, making it possible that this investigation could result in the largest number and highest awards across both the CFTC and SEC whistleblower programs.

As a matter of policy, the CFTC does not comment on the identity of whistleblowers or the CFTC Orders to which whistleblower awards relate. However, Garson and Fladgate note that, at the time the Citibank penalty was announced, the CFTC strongly stated that "The CFTC's order demonstrates that we will vigorously continue to investigate any efforts to manipulate financial benchmarks, and we will take action where possible to protect the integrity of these benchmarks," and, "The terms of this settlement are intended to reflect all aspects of Citibank's response to the investigation, including the evolving nature of its cooperation." Similar statements were also issued in relation to the Goldman Sachs and Royal Bank of Scotland orders, underlying the overall importance of the whistleblower bringing to light pervasive ISDAFIX rigging.

Press contact: [email protected]

Related Links

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SOURCE Garson, Segal, Steinmetz, Fladgate LLP
Nick Dirks was named the tenth chancellor of the University of California, Berkeley in 2012. An internationally renowned historian and anthropologist, Nick is well known as an advocate for accessible, high-quality undergraduate education. He has long been a champion of the globalization of higher education and collaborative innovation across academic disciplines. He has forged meaningful partnerships between universities and outside entities.

Before joining Berkeley, he was the executive vice president and dean of the faculty at Columbia University. Nick will lead the Whittle team in all education-related areas, including teaching and curriculum design.

Jim Hawkins - Vice Chancellor, Global Head of School Heads

Prior to assuming the role of Whittle School's vice chancellor, Jim served as head master of Harrow School in London, one of the world's great learning institutions and boarding schools. Jim has held several state and independent school governorships and was vice-president (Europe) of the International Boys' Schools Coalition.

As vice chancellor, Jim will appoint the head of school for each Whittle campus and lead and support the school heads as they put together and manager their senior teams.



Rebecca Upham - Vice Chancellor, Chairwoman, D.C. Campus

Born in Washington, D.C., Rebecca comes to Whittle School & Studios after leading Buckingham Browne & Nichols School for 17 years. She has also held senior leadership posts at the Ellis School and the Harvard-Westlake School.

As vice chancellor, Rebecca will manage the global education design team as well as lead the development of teaching methods, research work and the global curriculum framework.

Dennis Bisgaard - Head of School, D.C. Campus

Dennis has worked at top U.S. schools, most recently as head of school at Kingswood Oxford School. Dennis previously held senior positions at Bryn Mawr School in Maryland, Shady Hill School, and Collegiate School. He also served on the national NAIS Board of Trustees.

Xianzhang Shen - Chairman, Shenzhen Campus

Xianzhang Shen is a distinguished educator in China with over four decades of experience as a teacher, administrator and principal. He served as vice principal of RDFZ, the esteemed public high school in Beijing. Prior to joining Whittle, he served as senior vice president of TAL Education Group.

Rhiannon Wilkinson - Head of School, Shenzhen Campus (Joining early 2019)

Rhiannon is currently headmistress of Wycombe Abbey School in Buckinghamshire, England, one of the world's leading girls' boarding schools. She has wide experience in state, independent and international education. She has held senior positions at schools in Hong Kong, Brunei and England.

Li Yin, Senior Advisor

Li Yin was the founding headmistress of Wuhan Experimental Foreign Languages. Previously, she served as a representative of China's National People's Congress for a decade and was rewarded the National Woman Leader.

Whittle School & Studios intends to create an extraordinary school that contributes to the cause of modern education. Its founding team is a global consortium of hundreds of educators, architects, artists, technologists and other experts from primary, secondary and higher education. This modern network of campuses represents the fusion of world cultures through a modernized and personalized curriculum, facilitating the growth of students who will stand out as truly global citizens.

About Whittle School & Studios

Whittle School & Studios intends to create the world's first truly modern school serving students from age 3 to 18, with a global network of high-end private school campuses. Founded by Chris Whittle, an early leader of the charter school movement in the US, the school is forming local partnerships in over 30 major cities around the world. Whittle School & Studios will bring together renowned educators to provide a world-class education for its students, one that is personalized, prepares students for the future, and enables unique global exchange experiences. The first two campuses of Whittle School & Studios will be in Washington, D.C. and Shenzhen, China, with both campuses scheduled to open in the fall of 2019.

To learn more about Whittle's Washington campus, please visit www.whittleschool.org

To learn more about Whittle's Shenzhen campus, please visit www.huitongschool.cn

SOURCE Whittle School & Studios
IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 6, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- WNC, a national investor in real estate and community development initiatives, announced today that President and Chief Executive Officer Will Cooper Jr. formally endorsed Democratic candidate Harley Rouda for election to the United State House of Representatives for California's 48th district on behalf of the National Association of Home Builders. Cooper serves on the board of trustees for BUILD-PAC, NAHB's political action committee. Rouda is challenging long-time Republican Congressman Dana Rohrabacher in a race that has garnered national attention.

"As one of the leaders of the low-income housing tax credit industry, WNC is a champion of affordable housing development and preservation," said Cooper. "We are pleased to have represented the NAHB in its endorsement of Harley Rouda, who built his career in the housing industry as a business leader and entrepreneur. His experience in the private sector creating jobs and solving problems is exactly what we need in the next Congress to move this country forward."

Cooper formally endorsed candidate Rouda at a luncheon reception hosted by BUILD-PAC, the National Association of Home Builders' political action committee. The event was held on Aug. 6 at the Emerald Cove Senior Apartments, a 164-unit affordable housing community for seniors in Huntington Beach. WNC provided $3.6 million in tax credit equity to help fund the preservation and modernization of Emerald Cove, which reopened in 2011.

Housing is a vital function of the local, state and national economies which accounts for approximately 15 percent of the nation's gross domestic product. NAHB has stated that it believes this is a critical election year and that it is important to elect pro-housing, pro-business candidates to Congress in order to ensure that the housing and economic recovery continues to move forward.

"We are proud to endorse Harley Rouda for Congress," said NAHB Chairman Randy Noel, a custom home builder from LaPlace, La. "As a successful entrepreneur, he knows that small businesses are the backbone of our economy and that housing is critical to a strong and prosperous nation."

About WNC

WNC, founded in 1971 and headquartered in Irvine, Calif., is a national investor in real estate and community development initiatives, as well as a leading investor in low-income housing tax credits (LIHTC). WNC has acquired more than $8.8 billion of assets totaling in excess of 1,350 properties in 47 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. WNC's investor base exceeds 19,500 institutional and retail clients, including Fortune 500 companies, multinational banks, and insurance companies. Additional information is available at www.wncinc.com.

Contact

Julie Leber

Spotlight Marketing Communications

949.427.1391

[email protected]

SOURCE WNC

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FULTON, Md., Aug. 7, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- For the 5th consecutive year, the CyberWire will be bringing together women from around the region and across the nation to celebrate their contributions and successes in the cyber security industry. The reception will be held Thursday, October 18, 2018 at the new International Spy Museum in Washington DC, with striking views of Nation's capital as the backdrop.

This popular annual gathering of women offers the opportunity for leaders from the private sector, academia, and governmentcoming from varying points on the career spectrumto connect with one another, strengthen relationships and build new ones. The Reception also provides a forum for women seeking cyber security careers to connect with the technical and business professionals who are shaping the future of the industry.

The CyberWire's Women in Cyber Security Reception is free, and will again be held as an invitation-only event in order to ensure a mix of women with diverse backgrounds and at different career levels. "With women making up just 14% of the cyber security workforce, it's gratifying for us to have so many of the attendees share stories of new careers, mentorships, and business relationships," said Jennifer Eiben, the CyberWire's Community Outreach Director. "We're excited to be creating connections among women and helping to increase diversity in our industry."

Following the tradition of past receptions, the CyberWire is pleased to be partnering with one of region's leading arts organizations, Maryland Art Place (MAP), to create a competition and commission a special work of art by a female visual artist living and working in the greater Baltimore metropolitan area. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet this year's artist and hear her perspective on the commission's and the event's themeCreating Connections. Past artists have included those with not only backgrounds in the arts, but physics, mathematics, and engineering.

The 5th Annual Women in Cyber Security Reception is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors. During the event, guests will have an opportunity to hear perspectives on diversity in our industry from this year's hosting sponsor, Northrop Grumman Corporation, along with our presenting sponsors, Cylance, and CenturyLink. This year's Gold Sponsors include VMware, T.Rowe Price, Cooley, Accenture Security, and ObserveIT. Our Silver Sponsors are SecureStrux, Delta Risk, CyberSecJobs, and Symantec. This year's Women-owned Spotlight Sponsor is Edwards Performance Solutions. Companies wishing to sponsor can learn more on the event web page.

Women who wish to be considered for an invitation can request one on the event web page. Please keep in mind that due to the overwhelming number of requests, there is a now a waiting list for invitations.

About the CyberWire

We're an independent voice delivering concise, accessible, and relevant cyber security news to people all across the globe. We separate the signal from the noise. Learn more at thecyberwire.com.

SOURCE The CyberWire

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Mumbai, Aug 7 : In an effort to celebrate the rich and diverse handicrafts of India, the team of upcoming Bollywood film "Sui Dhaaga - Made In India" reached out to local artisans and craftsmen from across the country to create the logo of the film in their unique stitching styles.

The logo's launch on Tuesday coincides with the National Handloom Day.

"We reached out to 15 uniquely skilled artists/artist groups who helped us design our film logo. It has been an exhaustive and most rewarding experience for all of us at Yash Raj Films (YRF)," Manan Mehta, Vice President - Marketing and Merchandising, YRF, said in a statement.

It took the team six months to plan, research and execute the film's logo in 15 different styles, including in hand needlework forms of Kashida and Sozni from Kashmir, colourful Phulkari from Punjab, the intricate thread work forms Rabari and Mochi Bharat from Gujarat, Phool Patti from Uttar Pradesh and Zardozi work from Lucknow.

It has also been created in Rajasthan's prominent crafts like Aari, Banjara and Gota Patti, Tamil Nadu's popular Toda style and Karnataka's Kasuti design.

From the east, the film's logo has been made in Pipli style from Odisha and handloom work from Assam, Kantha stitch work from West Bengal.

The makers hope "Sui Dhaaga" creates awareness of India's culture amongst today's youth.

Starring Varun Dhawan and Anushka Sharma, the film is about finding love and respect through self-reliance. Its plot is inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy and takes a leaf out of the Make In India campaign.

Directed by Sharat Kataria and produced by Maneesh Sharma, "Sui Dhaaga" will release on September 28.
Moscow, Aug 7 : US Republican Senator Rand Paul has said here the main purpose of his visit to Russia is to establish and develop dialogue between the lawmakers of the two countries.

"We are interested in cooperation with the Russian Federation, especially with the legislative bodies, because we have common problems, common tasks," Paul was quoted as saying on Monday by a press release of the Federation Council, the upper house of the Russian parliament, Xinhua reported.

Paul headed a US delegation, which includes member of the Texas State Senate Don Huffines and representatives of the Cato Institute, a public policy research organisation.

The delegation met the Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs Konstantin Kosachev and Vice Speaker of the Federation Council Vladimir Lukin.

The parties discussed issues of Russian-US relations and prospects of inter-parliamentary relations, according to the press release.

"There are many differences in our approaches. Nevertheless, your position in favor of developing dialogue that equally meets the interests of the US and Russia can not but inspire respect," Kosachev said.

Kosachev said the visit is especially valuable as some US representatives are attempting to treat all contacts with Russian politicians as toxic ones.

The senior Russian lawmaker listed the main issues which should constitute the core of bilateral relations, including maintaining strategic stability, arms control and ensuring a further reduction of military tension.

Paul also met representatives of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian parliament, led by the committee's chairman Leonid Slutsky.

"The conversation with US politicians was about resuming close cooperation between the Russian Federal Assembly and the US Congress," Slutsky told reporters after the meeting.

He said the parties agreed to make efforts in the coming weeks and try to relaunch some kind of cooperation format as early as this autumn.

Slutsky added that his committee intends to continue discussion with the US delegation at a luncheon on Tuesday.

He named the situation in Ukraine, Syria and disarmament issues as possible topics for the upcoming conversation.
Caracas, Aug 7 : Venezuelans have rallied in support of President Nicolas Maduro, following a failed assassination attempt on his life.

The president of the National Constituent Assembly (ANC), Diosdado Cabello, led the rally on Monday as thousands of government supporters dressed in red, the color of the ruling socialist PSUV party, gathered in downtown Caracas, Xinhua reported.

From there, supporters marched to the presidential headquarters of Miraflores.

During a ceremony on last Saturday, commemorating the 81st anniversary of Venezuela's national guard, several drones flew close to the presidential stand as Maduro was giving a speech and exploded.

Maduro was unharmed but several others sustained injuries. Authorities have arrested at least six people in connection with the attempted assassination.

The attack was "not just against Maduro, but also against the people and officials," said Cabello.

Though world leaders have expressed their solidarity with Maduro, Venezuela's opposition has not condemned the attack, said Cabello, adding "an incident like this is reprehensible here or anywhere else in the world".
Ramallah, Aug 7 : The Palestinian authorities has said President Mahmoud Abbas will hold a summit meeting with Jordanian King Abdullah II in Amman next Wednesday.

The announcement was made on Monday by Saeb Erekat, secretary general of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), in his statements to the official Palestinian radio station Voice of Palestine, Xinhua news agency reported.

The meeting is part of the ongoing consultations between Abbas and Abdullah II, Erekat said.

The two leaders will discuss the latest developments, including a possible Egypt-brokered truce between Israel and Hamas, and the humanitarian aid to Gaza, a prelude to the implementation of the US "Deal of the Century" rejected by Palestinians.

Abbas will "hold more contacts with Arabs in order to consolidate the Arab Palestinian position, rejecting US President Donald Trump's measures toward the Palestinian cause," the PLO senior official said.

He also urged Hamas to accept the national reconciliation and allow the Palestinian unity government to take over Gaza.

"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would use the division as a loop hole to implement the US 'Deal of the Century,'" Erekat warned.

More than one agreement on Palestinian national reconciliation had been reached under the sponsorship of Saudi Arabia, Qatari and Egypt, but none of them achieved a tangible breakthrough to end the division since Hamas violently seized control of the coastal enclave in 2007.

The Palestinian Authority has been boycotting the Trump administration since he recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital and moved the US embassy to the disputed holy city.

The PLO has repeatedly accused the "Deal of the Century" of falling way short of Palestinian aspirations for lasting and just peace in the region.
San Francisco, Aug 7 : Facebook has announced it has removed four pages of US conspiracy theorist Alex Jones for violation of its policy that bans extremist behaviours including hate speech.

"Earlier today, we removed four Pages belonging to Alex Jones for repeatedly posting content over the past several days that breaks those Community Standards," Facebook said on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported.

The world's largest social media company said it has been pursuing a policy that wants "everyone using Facebook to feel safe. It's why we have Community Standards and remove anything that violates them, including hate speech that attacks or dehumanizes others."

Facebook said it banned four videos on four Facebook Pages for violating its hate speech and bullying policies, and these pages were identified as the Alex Jones Channel Page, the Alex Jones Page, the InfoWars Page and the Infowars Nightly News Page.

Jones has been banned from posting violating content on his Facebook pages for a period of 30 days, Facebook said.

Jones is a notorious conspiracy theorist who claimed the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting that occurred on December 14, 2012, in Newtown, Connecticut, was a hoax.

He denied the shooting, which killed 20 students and six school staff, had never actually occurred, asserting that it was "completely fake".

Facebook said after it blocked those Jones pages, it received more content from the same Pages that was taken down for glorifying violence.

Those pages broke Facebook's graphic violence policy, and used "dehumanizing language to describe people who are transgender, Muslims and immigrants, which violates our hate speech policies," Facebook said.

Apart from Facebook, Jones has also been banned from other major social media platforms, such as Google-owned YouTube and Apple.

Apple confirmed on Monday that it had taken down five podcasts of Jones' infamous "The Alex Jones Show," and a number of other audio streams from his right-wing media platform InfoWars.

Apple said Jones' podcasts that violated its guidelines were removed from its directory "making them no longer searchable or available for download or streaming".
Hundreds of family, friends and fellow first responders filled Germain Arena Monday to celebrate the life of fallen Fort Myers Police Officer Adam Jobbers-Miller.

Police officers from cities and towns across Florida first paid their respects by lining up at attention as Jobbers-Millers police SUV led the procession into the arena through the arch of a massive American flag suspended between two fire department ladders.

As the hearse and family limousines passed, somber-faced law enforcement continued their silent salute.

That respectful silence continued as people by the score began to follow the procession inside, where Jobbers-Millers casket was draped with an American flag and surrounded by flowers, pictures and the volunteer firefighters jacket he wore serving in his home state of New Jersey.

FMPD Chief Derrick Diggs thanked those who came out to pay tribute to the officer who died in the line of duty, making note of his life, service and dedication to his profession.

He then thanked Jobbers-Millers parents for having the honor of knowing their son.

There are no words I can provide for comfort at this time, Diggs said to the family, adding the FMPD and the community will continue to stand by them, becoming an extended family upon which they could lean on through their sorrow.

Jobbers-Miller had a promising future and looked to achieve much in law enforcement, a profession where officers know full well the dangers they face every day, Diggs said. We are just regular people who want to make the world a safer place, he said.

Our job is to run towards danger unlike others, who run away from it.

He spoke of the heroic nature of Jobbers-Miller, how a hero is an ordinary person who, when faced with an extraordinary task, performs with courage, honor and self sacrifice.

Today, were here to honor our hero, Diggs said. Behind my badge is a heart like yours, one that is heavy.

An emotional FMPD Capt. Jay Rodriguez was graciously thankful to all who have shown support throughout the last few weeks. He said the whole process was to make it about Jobbers-Miller and his life.

Rodriguez divulged how difficult-and understandably so-the last two weeks have been for himself and the FMPD, calling it pure hell and a roller coaster of emotions.

He told the countless uniformed personnel in the audience who together, will continue to support one another and the Jobbers-Miller family.

The final call will end his service, but cannot end his memory, Rodriguez concluded.

A video tribute played over Luke Bryants Drink a Beer, a song telling about the death of a loved one gone too soon.

Pictures depicting Jobbers-Miller with friends and family, and his FMPD brothers and sisters, were displayed over the ballad.

Throughout the ceremony, two FMPD officers stood watch over Jobbers-Millers casket, rotating with other officers in a powerful, methodical ritual.

The interchanging officers would slowly salute one another, gracefully switch spots, and gardually retreat with one another back to their seats.

FMPD Lt. Jeffery Bernice told cheerful stories of Jobbers-Miller and his time on the Bravo Shift for FMPD.

He recounted fun memories at the Miller ranch, where family gatherings often happened among FMPD officers.

He brought, just for a moment, smiles to the faces of those in attendance, recounting a story where Jobbers-Miller and friends pretended to act out their own version of Disneys Fantasia. Instead of magical cloaks they had yellow raincoats, and in place of mystical wands, they used roman candles.

He remembered Jobbers-Miller as having a warrior mindset.

He was a respectful and honorable warrior, Bernice said.

The lieutenant also noted that Jobbers-Millers untimely passing has helped strengthen the thin blue line, connecting agencies and building bridges across Southwest Florida municipalities.

SWFL Public Service Academy Coordinator and retired City of Fort Myers Police Chief Dennis Eads shared stories of Jobbers-Millers character. He stated that the officer beamed the day he graduated the academy, that his picture stood out from the others because of how happy he was to officially join the force.

Eads also shared an example of Jobbers-Millers kindness, as he had a friend in the academy who was struggling with exams. Jobbers-Miller provided his friend with a lucky pencil to help him pass his tests. Apparently it worked, he said, as the in-need-of-some-help cadet passed each one.

FMPD Lt. Roger Valdivia spoke on behalf of the family.

Our hearts are broken and our breath taken away from the outpouring of support for our Adam, said Valdivia, reading from a statement.

The Rev. Mike Warthen officiated the services and asked those in attendance to stand if they would continue to support the Jobbers-Miller family during their difficult time.

All in the arena stood up.

Take a look around, he said to the family, to show them that they are not alone and can always find refuge in the community.

The final portion of the service took place outside, under a large Thin Blue Line American Flag- an American flag that is all black and white, with a blue stripe across one of the 13, just under the sea of stars-draped across two fire truck ladders.

Taps was played while the flag over the casket was folded and presented to Chief Diggs, and then to the family.

The final call for Jobbers-Miller was played across the loudspeaker from the dispatcher, signaling the last time his 524 number would be radioed.

We have the watch from here. We are honored and proud to have known Officer Jobbers-Miller, the dispatcher called out.

Amazing Grace was played by Guns n Hoses Pipes and Drums while the casket was placed into the hearse to be taken to Jobbers-Millers final resting place.

Author Heather Fitzpatrick tells of a legend that dragonflies were given an extra set of wings so that angels could ride on their back, and that whenever you see one, you can be certain that an angel has come down from heaven to visit you.

A dragonfly could be seen flying around the family and officers during the end of watch and final call-an occurrence that gives hope the phrase, gone, but never forgotten.

Connect with this reporter on Twitter: haddad_cj
Riyadh, Aug 7 : Saudi Arabia's state airliner has suspended its direct flights to Toronto after Canada called for the release of detained activists for civil society and women's rights.

The Middle Eastern country has also frozen all trade and expelled Canada's ambassador over the "interference", BBC reported on Monday.

Canada has responded by saying it "will continue to advocate for human rights".

Those held include the Saudi-American human rights campaigner Samar Badawi, sister of jailed blogger Raif Badawi.

Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland said she was "deeply concerned" by the diplomat's expulsion, but added: "Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including women's rights and freedom of expression around the world.

"We will never hesitate to promote these values and we believe that this dialogue is critical to international diplomacy."

Her Saudi counterpart, Adel al-Jubeir, had earlier tweeted that Canada's position was based on "misleading information", adding that anyone arrested was "subject to Saudi laws that guarantee their rights".

The leading Saudi women's rights campaigner Manal al-Sharif thanked Canada for "speaking up" and asked when other Western powers would do the same.

In what appeared to be a further sign of deteriorating relations between the two countries, a verified Twitter account, which is reportedly linked to Saudi authorities, shared an image of a plane flying towards Toronto's famed CN Tower.

The image was overlaid with text, including a quote which read "he who with what doesn't concern him finds what doesn't please him".

People on social media have been quick to point out the similarities between the image and images of 9/11.

The account has since been deleted, but cached versions of the tweet are circulating online.
Washington, Aug 7 : US President Donald Trump has been urged to stop tweeting about the 2016 Trump Tower meeting between his top advisers and several Russians, a media report said.

The President was advised that his tweeting only gives oxygen to the topic, even if those around Trump do not believe there is any truly new development, an informed source told CNN on Monday.

On Sunday, Trump tweeted an apparent response to stories by CNN and The Washington Post that said he was worried about his son Donald Trump Jr.'s legal exposure following the 2016 meeting.

Calling the reported concerns a "complete fabrication", the President acknowledged that the meeting was accepted on the premise that his son would get dirt on former presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton.

"This was a meeting to get information on an opponent, totally legal and done all the time in politics - and it went nowhere. I did not know about it!" the President tweeted.

The President's Sunday move about the purpose behind the 2016 Trump Tower meeting was the latest step in the long-evolving story from him, Donald Trump Jr. and the President's legal team.

Donald Trump Jr. initially responded to the first revelations about the meeting by releasing a misleading statement claiming the meeting primarily concerned Russian adoption policy. A

s more details emerged, he released a new statement acknowledging there was an offer of potentially damaging information on Clinton and the Democratic Party, and he eventually published emails about the meeting.
Sydney, Aug 7 : The Earth is at risk of falling into an irreversible greenhouse state due to global warming, which would make several regions of the planet uninhabitable for humans, an international study revealed on Tuesday.

The study led by Will Steffen from the Australian National University (ANU) warned that this situation could result in temperatures rising to approximately five degrees over pre-industrial levels and sea level rising up by 10-60 metres in the long term, reports Efe news.

Currently, the global average temperature is slightly one degree higher than that of the pre-industrial era and increases 0.17 degrees each decade.

Steffen said that if the temperatures increased two degrees due to human activities, a process known as feedback would be activated in the Earth's system, which could aggravate global warming even if greenhouse gases are no longer emitted.

The feedbacks effects include permafrost thaw, loss of methane hydrates from the ocean floor, weakening land and ocean carbon sinks and increasing bacterial respiration in the oceans.

They also include Amazon rainforest dieback, boreal forest dieback, reduction of northern hemisphere snow cover, loss of Arctic summer sea ice, and reduction of Antarctic sea ice and polar ice sheets.

"These tipping elements can potentially act like a row of dominoes. Once one is pushed over, it pushes Earth towards another. It may be very difficult or impossible to stop the whole row of dominoes from tumbling over," Steffen said in a statement.

The researchers believe that the feedback effects could also led to uncontrollable emissions of carbon that have been stored on Earth.

Steffen warned that current efforts, which are not sufficient to meet the objectives of the Paris Agreement, will not help humans avoid this dangerous situation, in which many parts of the planet could become unfit for living.

The Paris Agreement, signed in 2015 by some 200 countries, seeks to contain the increase in global average temperature below 2 degrees Celsius with respect to the pre-industrial level, and to continue efforts to limit this increase by 1.5 degrees.

Steffen also urged the international community to accelerate the transition towards an emission-free world economy.

This study was published in the PNAS scientific journal and involved scientists from Switzerland, Denmark, the UK, Belgium, US, Germany and the Netherlands.
San Francisco, Aug 7 : Google has released its latest version of Android Operating System -- Android 9 Pie, which harnesses the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to predict how users would like to experience their devices while offering a smoother navigation system and an easier way to track and limit usage of apps.

It comes with features like Adaptive Battery, which learns the apps you use most and prioritises battery for them, Google said in a statement on Monday.

Another interesting feature that Android 9 Pie brings is Adaptive Brightness, which learns how you like to set the brightness in different settings, and does it for you.

"Android 9 aims to make your phone even smarter by learning from you and adapting to your usage patterns," said Sameer Samat, Vice President of Product Management, Android and Google Play.

"It also helps you get things done faster, like predicting what you will want to do next based on your context and displaying that action right on your phone," Samat said, adding that the company was working to add key capabilities right into Android to help people achieve the balance with technology they are looking for.

At Google developers conference in May, Google previewed digital wellbeing features for Android including a new Dashboard that shows time spent on the device; an App Timer that lets users set time limits on apps and greys out the icon on the home screen when the time is up.

Google said "Digital Wellbeing" is now available in beta for Pixel phones running Android 9, and will be officially available in the next few months.

It will be coming to Android One and other devices later in 2018, the tech giant added.

Android 9 features a new system navigation featuring a single, clean home button. Users can swipe up to see a newly designed "Overview", the place where you have at-a-glance full-screen previews of your last used apps.

The "Smart Text Selection" feature is designed to make switching between apps easier.

Google said Android P also brings a redesigned Quick Settings that offers among other things a better way to take and edit screenshots, simplified volume controls, and an easier way to manage notifications.

"With Android 9 we have made software more secure from Code-reuse attacks, and installed features which add a layer of security to biometrics," Google said.

Android 9 also has features to improve your privacy and security of sensitive data like credit card information, according to Google.

"Starting today, an over-the-air update to Android 9 will begin rolling out to Pixel phones," Google said on Monday.

Devices that participated in the Beta programme from Sony Mobile, Xiaomi, HMD Global, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus, and Essential Phones, as well as all qualifying Android One devices, will receive this update by the end of 2018, it added.
San Francisco, Aug 7 : Catastrophic wildfires continue to ravage California, as one blaze nearly doubled in size over the last three days, making it the largest in the US state's history, according to authorities.

No one has been injured in the Mendocino Complex Fire, which consists of two fires -- the Ranch Fire and the River Fire -- burning around Clear Lake, in several counties in Northern California, reports CNN.

Combined, they form the biggest blaze that California firefighters are currently battling.

Altogether, the Mendocino Complex Fire has burned 283,800 acres -- growing about 80 per cent since August 3.

As of Monday evening, it was 30 per cent contained and had destroyed 75 residences.

The Mendocino Complex Fire has now surpassed last year's Thomas Fire, which burned 281,893 acres in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, as the largest fire in Cal Fire history.

Exhausted firefighters across the state are trying to contain 16 major fires that are burning in hot, dry and windy conditions.

On Monday, another fast-moving fire ignited in the state -- this time in Orange County, where firefighters battled the Holy Fire that expanded to more than 4,000 acres.

That fire started in the Cleveland National Forest and evacuations in the nearby areas have been ordered, according to the Orange County Fire Authority.

In Northern California's Shasta County, the devastating Carr Fire claimed its seventh victim on August 4 when a Pacific Gas and Electric worker died while working with a crew to restore power, CNN reported.

Over the weekend, the White House approved a disaster declaration for Shasta County, allowing affected residents to apply for federal assistance including temporary housing and home repairs.

Currently, more than 14,000 firefighters are battling the wildfires across California.

Fire crews from Australia and New Zealand arrived in the state on Monday to provide assistance.
Canberra, Aug 7 : Pubs across Australia will donate A$1 from every chicken parmigiana meal they sell to help drought-stricken farmers.

An iconic menu item throughout Australia, the chicken parmigiana is a crumbed schnitzel topped with cheese and marinara sauce and served with chips and salad, reports Xinhua news agency.

Dubbed "Parma for a Farmer", the initiative has taken hold rapidly with countless clubs, bars and eateries taking part, supported by the Australian Hotels Association.

Participating venue, Axedale Tavern in Victoria normally does between 200 and 300 chicken parmas a week, expecting that number to increase.

Owner Gary Vanwynen told Xinhua that while they themselves aren't affected by the drought, the local community can relate to what's unfolding in other parts of the country.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Designer Payal Jain feels that the word couture and bridal have somehow got entangled in each other in India but things are slowly moving in a progressive way. She also feels that when she started her label, fashion was a misunderstood term with designers treated as glorified tailors but now they are no less than a celebrity.

"I think the word 'Couture' and Bridal wear have somehow got entangled in each other in India, whereas Couture is not limited to the bridal market. It simply means 'made to measure' for any dinner, cocktail, performance, get together or special occasion.

"It is also not limited to saris and lehangas but has a much wider interpretation in the western world. It includes evening gowns, pant suits, draped ensembles, skirt ensembles, dresses and more. Slowly the Indian customer is warming up to special Western ensembles, although the majority of them associate Couture with bridal wear only," Jain told IANS in an e-mail interview.

She says that when she first started her label, 'Couture' was not a word the Indian customer understood.

"Fashion too was a grossly misunderstood career choice as designers were treated as glorified tailors. Over the last two decades, I have seen the revolution in this industry, everyone has an opinion on fashion today and designers are considered celebrities, with huge fan following," she said.

"I have always created western garments with a strong Indian textile heritage, but in the early 90s, the Indian fashion sensibility of most consumers was purely ethnic. With time, I have seen these preferences change completely across the country. Today, the Indian consumer is well aware of the global trends and up to date with international fashion. They want the latest trends, expect the best and are willing to spend on exclusivity and uniqueness.

Specially, 'Couture' is a word which is widely understood and appreciated amongst the discerning Indians. It remains largely Indian in its form, but gradually I can see more and more women opting for Western options for occasions," she added.

Seamlessly blending Indian craftsmanship with modern day western silhouettes, Jain's name is synonymous with eternal style. An industry veteran with decades of experience under her belt, she prides herself on meticulously crafting every piece that she creates with intricate precision.

With many accolades under her belt, including dressing trendsetter extraordinaire Victoria Beckham, Priyanka Chopra, Deepti Naval, Saina Nehwal and many others, there is no doubt that her atelier's legacy will prevail to be one of the strongest fashion houses in the history of Indian Fashion.

Jain is one of the few designers that take painstaking care of each phase of her design realization. She conditions all the textile development that goes into her collection; from approving every fiber to the actual processing of the weave itself, spending anywhere between 12-18 months developing her line.

She feels that fashion is limited to boundaries or ethnicity.

"My collections cater to the modern woman of today; who knows her likes and dislikes, is secure and comfortable in her skin and is a global citizen. She may or may not be Indian and can be living in any part of the world. She has a contemporary fashion sensibility and appreciates Indian textiles and crafts. She has an appreciation for subtle aesthetics, fine craftsmanship, intricate detailing, and beautiful garment construction," said Jain.

She recently showcased her couture collection "Moonlit" at DLF5 Crest Club House. The designs showcased progressiveness, beauty and uniqueness wearing precious jewels from RK Jewelers South Extension-II. Inspired by delicate milky white flowers of ethereal beauty, and pristine simplicity, So what else is happening on the design front?

"There's a lot happening now in the fashion space, both in India and abroad. We are stocking our label in several stores across the globe and constantly working with agents to increase the foot print of the brand. On the corporate front too, there are hotel projects being undertaken and executed in various geographies. Finally, fashion in India has grown to be an industry, not a small business," she said.

(Nivedita can be contacted at nivedita.s@ians.in)
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 7 : Starting Tuesday midnight private buses, auto rickshaws, taxis, freight vehicles, state-owned KSRTC buses -- all have gone off Kerala roads in solidarity with a day-long strike organised by the All India Motor Transport Organisation.

Even all workshops and spare parts shops have remained closed, turning it into a total shutdown.

With this 24-hour strike, the transport body is demanding the withdrawal of the proposed Motor Vehicle (MV) Amendment Bill.

Barring the Bhartiya Janata Party backed Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), all the other trade unions are taking part in the protest.

Private vehicles, though, have continued to ply across the state as usual, leading to thin attendances in offices.

Students' attendance at almost all educational intuitions was practically nil, even though it was not an official holiday. Even teachers' attendances was also very low.

Given the situation, there was a huge rush reported on the Kochi Metro.

Although shops and establishments were open in several districts in major markets but due to non-arrival of lorries ferrying consumables, they wore a deserted look.

People arriving at railways stations had a tough time. The police officers on duty tried their best to ensure transport for patients in need of emergencies.

Minor skirmishes were reported from a few places between protesters and drivers of taxis and auto-rickshaws who tried plying their vehicles despite the shutdown-call.

The proposed Motor Vehicle (MV) Amendment Bill, has been passed by the Lok Sabha, and is now awaiting the Rajya Sabha's nod.

The protesters are also demanding reduction in insurance premium, besides the frequent price hike of petroleum products.
Kozhikode (Kerala) : Kozhikode (Kerala) Aug 7 (IANS) As part of efforts to make Indian airports disaster-ready and become national trainers, 14 airport operations experts from across the country have gathered in the city to learn and also share what they have learned.

The five-day programme is being organised by Deutsche Post DHL Group (DPDHL) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). THe two are expanding their internationally recognized Get Airports Ready for Disaster (GARD) program with officials and experts from Airports Authority of India (AAI).

"Channelling relief efforts from airports to the affected communities requires efficient operational procedures and appropriate infrastructure capabilities," said Subhash Kumar, General Manager AAI.

"In addition to reassessing airport facilities and strengthening staff expertise, this workshop will allow us to build our readiness for any potential emergencies across the country and regionally," said Kumar.

He said the programme will include a new Train the Facilitator (TtF) element for countries that are at above-average risk for natural disasters.

Chris Weeks, DPDHL Director for Humanitarian Affairs, said the new initiative allows airports to conduct the GARD training when it suits the regional needs best and makes the roll-out much more flexible.

"Furthermore, the Train the Facilitator workshop allows us to share our knowledge that we have gathered in more than nine years with others and thereby scale up the number of GARD trained airports to make the program even more effective," said Weeks.

The entire exercise is to ensure fast and effective assistance in the immediate aftermath of a natural or man-made disaster, besides having the necessary airport infrastructure and local transport connections.

Preeti Soni, UNDP's Assistant Country Director, said with increased vulnerability due to climate change, it is essential to strengthen national capacities and resilience to natural disaster.

" It includes training local authorities in special customs and immigration policies that need to be activated in the event of emergency, and having passenger evacuation plans or accommodation at the airport for the first 72 hours," said Soni.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a blistering attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that after four years of his rule, India looked "like a train being driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver".

Asking his party MPs to tap the rising anger against the BJP, Gandhi also accused the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of making a "systematic attack on every single institution" and "destroying" them since the NDA came to power.

Speaking at the Congress Parliamentary Party meeting here, he alleged that in the last four years corruption had peaked amid failing economy due to incompetence.

Gandhi recalled how Modi, before he was elected in 2014, used to say India was a slow "passenger train" for 70 years after independence and how under his guidance the country would become a sleek and shining "magical train" destined for "achche din".

"Four years of Modi rule later, sadly, India today looks more like a train that is being driven to disaster by an autocratic, incompetent and arrogant driver, who does not care what happens to the passengers he is responsible for," Gandhi said.

"The people of India are demanding change. They will no longer be fooled by your magical train that is headed for a bad accident."

He said the people were looking up to the Congress and allied parties to remove the Modi government and replace it with one which will listen to them, understand their problems and provide solutions that reduce poverty, unemployment and inequality.

"In other words, there is a great responsibility that is being placed on all of us today, to win this historic struggle between the forces of democracy and social justice versus those of autocracy and social hierarchy.

"We have to ensure that the forces of hate, division and violence that are trampling upon the Constitution are prevented from coming back to power. We have to restore hope in the eyes of the Indian farmers and youth, about their right to dignified life and decent incomes. We have to give relief to ordinary families being crushed under the dual burden of household debt and rising prices of essential goods. We have to ensure the safety of Indian women."

Gandhi said since the RSS and the BJP have come to power, "we have seen a systematic attack on every single one of our institutions. In modern India, these institutions were called temples of democracy and today the RSS is intent in destroying every single one of them. Every single institution is being penetrated by their people and nature of institutions itself is being changed".

"In 2014, Modi claimed if he was elected there would be creation of two crore jobs for youth a year, doubling of farmers' incomes, prosperity and growth for businesses, the return of black money stored in Swiss banks, Rs 15 lakh in the bank account of every Indian citizen, lowering of petrol prices, safety for women, justice for Dalits...

"Leave alone creating new jobs the reality is that existing jobs have been disappearing... The unemployment rate in India has doubled between July 2017 and April 2018, whereas the number of jobs in the last financial year also fell... Unemployment rate in the country almost doubled from 3.39 per cent in July 2017 to 6.23 per cent in March 2018 and is projected to reach even higher."
Every time Cheryl Anderson talks about the blue-green algae crisis in Cape Coral, she gets a little emotional. As a member of Friends of Cape Coral Wildlife, that may stand to reason.

She  and numerous other residents,  on Monday once again made a plea for the Cape Coral City Council to act as the water quality crisis continues.

Officials advised there is some progress being made.

Lee County has received $700,000 in Department of Environmental Protection Florida Harmful Algal Bloom Management Grant Program money. A contractor has begun suctioning algae out of the canals in North Fort Myers and the removal vessel is expected to come to Cape Coral sometime this week.

Meanwhile, Mayor Joe Coviello told those attending the city council meeting that he and several other area mayors were going to the Lee County Board of County Commissioners with a request asking Gov. Rick Scott to extend the state of emergency he declared due to the toxic algal blooms contaminating the Caloosahatchee and other area waterways, including Cape canals.

This came on top of news that U.S. Rep. Francis Rooney has asked President Donald Trump to declare a national state of emergency in Florida so even more funding and resources can be made available.

Anderson said the lake she lives near isnt affected by the algae but she is sickened nonetheless by the stench in the air.

Im on allergy medicine all the time so my headaches dont bother me so badly, Anderson said. What I see are pictures of all the dead animals, the fish, manatees, turtles. Its heartbreaking to think of all the hours weve spent and to see them murdered at our own hands and nobody will take responsibility.

Anderson stressed the need to do something different, to stop electing the same people, and for people to put pressure on everyone involved to act now in sending the nutrient-laden water discharged from Lake Okeechobee south, rather than east and west, when water levels get too high and so threaten the dike around the lake.

The mayor has done a good job, she said, but that the issue is much bigger than the city and state and federal officials need to stop the problem at the source if anything is going to improve.

As for the potential fixes, Anderson said she was very skeptical, since much of what is happening regarding the algae removal is experimental and nobody knows what the actual result will be.

Councilmember David Stokes saw the potential using a boat that could suck up the algae and asked if the city could possibly get something like that.

Jeff Pearson, utilities director, told council a Cape Coral company may have a product that can kill algae in salt water. He said there are many ways to kill algae, but there could be unintended consequences to the ecosystem.

In other business, the city council also addressed the city-owned acreage dubbed the Seven Islands.

The elected board passed a pair of ordinances in regards to the property in the north Cape, one to amend the citys comprehensive plan to establish a Seven Islands sub-district land use and the future land use map to designate a parcel as mixed-use comprising the Seven Islands sub-district.

The parameters for the sub-district includes 995 dwelling units with up to three multi-family residential structures up to eight stories high, 70,000 square feet of commercial space, including a restaurant and hotel, a 40,000-square-foot community center, a marina and park uses.

John Karcher, vice-president of the Northwest Neighborhood Association, said the ordinance has been six years in the making after the city purchased the land as part of a then-controversial large land purchase in 2012.

There was quite a ruckus about that, but Seven Islands is the premier waterfront property, and what could be and that vision is here to approve, Karcher said. We have worked closely in pulling this together. Tonight is about the framework of the vision we have.

Also, City Manager John Szerlag unveiled something that was found during the North 2 Utility Expansion Project: a piece of the front leg of a wooly mammoth about 10,000 years old, which predates human occupation in Florida.

The bone fragment will be donated to the Cape Coral Historical Society.
Islamabad, Aug 7 : A lawyer has moved the Peshawar High Court seeking removal of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's name from Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) after the latter's conviction for corruption.

Khanzada Ajmal Zeb filed the petition on Monday urging the court to ask the Election Commission to delete "N" from the party name, Dawn online reported on Tuesday.

The respondents in the petition were the Chief Election Commissioner, the poll body secretary and Nawaz Sharif, who is now in jail.

Zeb said that Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah was the head of the Muslim League who wanted the party to be a symbol of good governance, development and national interest. But the petitioner held Sharif responsible for the division of the PML.

He said Sharif hijacked the party before forming his own faction, PML-N, and registered it with the poll body.

Sharif, currently serving a 10-year jail term in a corruption case, misled the public at large by using the name of PML-N. Therefore, "N" needed to be deleted from the party name, said Zeb.
Kabul, Aug 7 : Over 20,000 Afghan refugees have returned or have been deported from neighbouring Pakistan and Iran during the period of July 29 to August 4, the UN Migration Agency said on Tuesday.

A total of 19,513 Afghans have reportedly arrived in the country in this period from Iran, 5 per cent less than the previous week, reports Xinhua news agency.

Meanwhile, 954 Afghans have returned from Pakistan.

"This number marks a 700 per cent increase compared to the previous week (137)," the agency said.

The agency has provided post-arrival humanitarian assistance, including food and other essential items to the returnees.

More than 463,000 Afghan refugees have returned from the two countries since January 1.
Beijing, Aug 7 : Chinese censors have banned the release of "Christopher Robin", a new animated film adaptation of A.A. Milnes beloved story about "Winnie the Pooh" for the character's comparison to President Xi Jinping.

"Winnie the Pooh" has become a lighthearted way for people across China to mock their President, the Guardian reported on Tuesday.

It started when Xi visited the US in 2013 and an image of him and his former American counterpart Barack Obama walking together spurred comparisons to Winnie, a portly Xi, walking with Tigger, a lanky Obama.

Xi was again compared to the fictional bear in 2014 during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who took on the part of the pessimistic, gloomy donkey, Eeyore.

As comparisons grew, censors began erasing the images which mocked Xi.

The HBO website owas blocked last month after comedian John Oliver repeatedly made fun of the Chinese President's apparent sensitivity over comparisons of his figure with that of Winnie.

The segment also focused on China's dismal human rights record.

Another comparison between Xi and Winnie during a military parade in 2015 became that year's most censored image, according to Global Risk Insights.

The analysis firm said the Chinese government viewed the meme as "a serious effort to undermine the dignity of the presidential office and Xi himself".

"Christopher Robin" is the second Disney film to be denied a release in China this year, after "A Wrinkle in Time" was blocked.
Islamabad, Aug 7 : A 24-year-old man, on death row for the rape and murder of six-year-old Zainab Amin in Pakistan earlier this year, has been given death penalty on five more counts for the rape and murder of two other girls.

The sentence was announced by an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in a trial held inside a prison on Monday.

Imran Ali, a resident of Kasur city, was involved in at least nine incidents of rape-cum-murder of minors, including Zainab, which he had confessed to during her murder investigation, Dawn online reported on Tuesday.

Ali was also ordered to pay a massive fine. His failure to pay the fine will result in an additional six months of imprisonment, the court said.

On Saturday, he was given death sentence on 12 counts for the rape and murder of three other minor girls. Three more cases remain pending against Ali.

Zainab's rape and murder had sparked outrage and protests across the country. The girl went missing on January 4 and was found dead in a trash heap in Kasur on January 9.

The government had declared Ali's arrest on January 23. He was given death sentence for Zainab's rape and murder in February.

He challenged it but the apex court rejected his appeal on June 12, saying that the petitioner had admitted committing similar offences with eight other minor victims.

Ali still has the right to seek clemency from President Mamnoon Hussain.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asked BJP MPs to observe 'social justice fortnight' from August 15 to 31 in their respective constituencies.

"The Prime Minister has decided that we will celebrate Samajaik Nyay Pakhwada from August 15 to 31. We will go to every part of the country and make people aware of the decisions we made for social justice," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar told reporters after the meeting.

He said from next year, the BJP will celebrate Social Justice Week between August 1-9 every year.

The PM's remarks came at the BJP parliamentary party meeting, the last of this monsoon session. The Prime Minister said the ongoing monsoon session of Parliament would be marked as a social justice session in history.

Parliament on Monday accorded constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes.

The Lok Sabha also on Monday passed the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill.

The Prime Minister termed these measures historic.

Kumar said Modi also recalled his speech after the BJP's victory in the 2014 polls in which he had said his government would be dedicated to the poor, villages and backward sections of society. "These Bills underline this commitment," he said.

The BJP Parliamentary Party also passed a resolution lauding the government over the passage of the Bills.

It was for the second time that the BJP Parliamentary Party felicitated Modi. In the last meeting, he was felicitated for defeating the no-confidence motion.

MPs from Poorvanchal area of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh also felicitated the Prime Minister for developing BHU with AIIMS-like facilities.

The Rajya Sabha on Monday unanimously passed the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill as passed by the Lok Sabha to give a constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes.

Earlier, the Upper House had made some amendments to the Bill passed by the Lok Sabha and sent it back to the Lower House of Parliament. The Lok Sabha, in a rare gesture, adopted and passed the Bill.

The bill seeks to grant NCBC constitutional status at par with the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes.

The Lok Sabha had on Monday passed the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill, 2018, which seeks to overturn a Supreme Court order that struck down the provision for immediate arrest.

The Bill is likely to be passed in the Upper House this week.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The Delhi cabinet on Tuesday approved a proposal to increase the MLA Local Area Development (LAD) fund to Rs 10 crore per year per assembly from Rs 4 crore.

"The MLAs used to come to us for small things due to lack of funds. Now they don't have to run around," Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia told the Delhi Assembly.

The LAD is a fund given to MLAs to execute various works in their constituency.

Modelled on the Member of Parliament LAD scheme, an MLA in Delhi received Rs 4 crore in a year under the LAD scheme, started in 1994.

"From this year, the fund given will be Rs 10 crore," Urban Development Minister Satyendar Jain told the House.

Later, speaking to media outside the Assembly, Sisodia said the step will help in best utilisation of the money.

"The utilisation of these funds is purely at the discretion of MLAs. It is first of its kind in the country. Our government wants to ensure local development through MLAs," he said.
Washington, Aug 7 : US President Donald Trump on Tuesday issued a strong warning to anyone trading with Iran, following his re-imposition of sanctions on the country.

"The Iran sanctions have officially been cast. These are the most biting sanctions ever imposed and in November they ratchet up to yet another level. Anyone doing business with Iran will not be doing business with the US. I am asking for world peace, nothing less," Trump said in a tweet.

Some re-imposed sanctions took effect overnight and tougher ones relating to oil exports will begin in November. The sanctions followed the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, also known as the Iran nuclear deal, earlier this year.

The deal, negotiated during the term of Trump's predecessor Barack Obama, saw Iran limit its controversial nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called the measures "psychological warfare" which aimed to "sow division among Iranians". The sanctions take aim at various sectors, with further punitive action planned against Iran's oil trade.

Rouhani said the US government had "turned their back on diplomacy" with the action. "They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation," he said.

"Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense. We are always in favour of diplomacy and talks... but talks need honesty." The Iranian President also accused the Trump administration of using Tehran as domestic political leverage ahead of November's midterm elections in the US.

"They will exert pressure on us and cause pain, but we will certainly come out of the end of this healthier," he said about the penalties that went back into effect at 12.01 a.m. on Tuesday.

Rouhani said that China and Russia had indicated they will not abide by US sanctions despite Trump's threat of "severe consequences".

Trump has called the deal "one-sided", "disastrous" and the "worst I've ever seen". He believes renewed economic pressure will force Iran to agree to a new deal and end its "malign" activities.

The other signatories to the 2015 nuclear deal, including the EU, Russia and China, were sticking with the accord. In a statement on Monday, the EU, the UK, France and Germany said they "deeply regret" the US action. The EU announced it would take legal steps to protect European companies "doing legitimate business in Iran."
Chennai, Aug 7 : The Tamil Nadu Police chief on Tuesday ordered maximum deployment of the police force across the state as Kauvery Hospital announced that DMK chief M. Karunanidhi's condition had become "extremely critical".

A circular issued by Director General of Police T.K. Rajendran asked all Superintendents of Police, City Police Commissioners and others to direct officials under them to report to them immediately in uniform without delay.

The Zonal Inspector Generals of Police have been asked to utilize manpower within the zone depending upon the requirement.

The direction assumes significance with Karunanidhi's health condition turning "extremely critical". He has been admitted to the Kauvery Hospital here since July 28.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Expressing concern over the spurt in rape cases, the Supreme Court on Tuesday came down heavily on the Bihar government for misusing taxpayers' money to fund NGOs like the Muzaffarpur shelter home whose head has been arrested on the charge raping the inmates.

The apex court also asked the centre to apprise it of the steps being taken to prevent sexual abuse of minors in shelter homes across the country.

"What's happening in all these institutions funded by the government? People are paying taxes. People's money is going into funding these kinds of activities... it's state-financed activity. Money has been given to these NGOs without looking into their credentials," a bench of Justice Madan B. Lokur, Justice Deepak Gupta and Justice K.M. Joseph remarked.

"What's to be done? Girls getting raped left, right and centre," the Bench noted while citing the 2016 National Crime Research Bureau data available on the Internet. According to the data, 38,947 rapes were reported in 2016.

In Madhya Pradesh, girls are being sold openly for prostitution and the state leads in the number of rapes, followed by Uttar Pradesh, the court added.

Slamming the Bihar government for funding NGOs involved in sexual abuse cases, the top court questioned how the state could do this without knowing their credentials.

As the bench asked the Bihar government since when the state was providing funds to these NGOs, it was told "since 2014."

"For at least 3-4 years, the Bihar government is giving them money without purpose. Doesn't the law require to check?"

The court has taken suo motu cognisance of the Muzaffarpur shelter home rapes after a Patna resident wrote to the court. The CBI is probing the case.

The court also imposed a blanket ban on the publication of images of victims of sexual offences even by putting black bars on part of face/blurred form on the electronic, print and social media.

It said there would not be any interview of minor survivors of sexual abuse, saying it has serious mental impact.

The court said that such survivors can only be interviewed by members of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights in the presence of counsellors.

The apex court also directed that while the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences will look into the mental and physiatrist requirements of these children, the All India Institute of Medical Science in Patna will look into their clinical requirements and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) will take care of their social rehabilitation.

It asked the Bihar government to take action against the wife of one of the accused for disclosing the names of minor rape victims on her Facebook page.

The court suggested that proper monitoring of NGO-run shelter homes must be done on a daily basis and CCTVs be installed to prevent recurrence of incidents like the Muzaffarpur shelter home rapes.

The apex court was told that the Muzaffarpur-based NGO was not the only one facing allegations of rape and that a social audit by TISS had flagged "grave concern" over 15 such state-funded institutions in Bihar out of 110.

Nine of the 15 NGOs have been flagged for sexual abuse, the bench was told.

At this, the bench said: "It's not about this one incident which is horrible. It's happening everyday, you must go down to the grass-roots level."

The Bihar government counsel told the court that of the 15 NGOs, FIRs have been registered against nine, and that all accused have been arrested except one absconding. Some officers were suspended and are facing action, the court was told.

The counsel said the state government will file a detailed affidavit in a week on the compensation, social rehabilitation, and counselling of raped children who have been shifted to government shelter homes.

When the Delhi Commission for Women wanted to file an intervention application, the bench slammed it for interfering and said it doesn't want any politics in the matter.

"The DCW has no concern with this (case) and there is absolutely no politics in it," the Supreme Court said.

The Muzaffarpur rapes came to light when the Bihar Social Welfare Department filed an FIR based on the TISS social audit.
Islamabad, Aug 7 : An accountability court on Tuesday declared Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif's son-in-law a "proclaimed offender" after he failed to appear before the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in a corruption case.

The court's decision came following a request by Pakistan's anti-corruption body NAB. Imran Ali Yousaf is accused of receiving Rs 12 million graft money from Ikram Naveed, the former CEO of the Punjab Power Development Company (PPDC), and is the subject of a NAB probe, Dawn online reported.

Yousaf appeared before NAB investigators in April but has since missed his scheduled hearings and left the country for London.

The NAB, which in July requested the Interior Ministry to extradite Yousaf via Interpol, on Tuesday told the court that "warrant of arrest against the accused has been issued by NAB chairman".

"As per the investigation officer, the accused has gone underground and is not traceable," the body said. It also summoned Shehbaz Sharif on August 20.

The daily cited a source as saying that Sharif's son-in-law was also accused of "getting Naveed appointed as PPDC CEO who allegedly committed massive corruption".

The Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) had already carried out a probe against Naveed and Yousaf in 2016. It declared Naveed guilty of embezzling Rs 450 million.

The ACE in its investigation found that Naveed had purchased 19 properties in his and his family members' names and also unearthed his and his relatives properties worth over Rs 1 billion.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The Rajya Sabha was on Tuesday adjourned for the day amid protests by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) members who came near the Chairman's podium shouting slogans, causing repeated adjournments in the post-lunch sitting and not allowing BJP President Amit Shah to speak.

The high drama also saw Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu almost naming the TMC MPs and ordering their removal from the House.

As soon as the House met at 2 p.m, Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu called out BJP President Amit Shah to speak on a short duration discussion on hiked MSP for farmers and the agricultural situation.

Just then, TMC Member Nadimul Haque stood up and asked about a notice his party had given under Rule 267. Naidu said their issue would be taken up on Wednesday first thing.

Shah then started speaking on the Minimum Support Price (MSP) announced by the government for the kharif crop. He had spoken only for a few minutes when TMC MPs trooped near the Chairmana's podium and started shouting slogans.

The BJP Ministers stood up and protested against the TMC members' conduct. MoS Parliamentary Affairs Vijay Goel asked the Chair to name the protesting MPs.

Amid the ruckus, Naidu adjourned the House for 10 minutes.

As soon as the House was reconvened at 2:24 p.m., the TMC MPs again trooped near the Chair's podium.

On this, Naidu read out Rule 255 from the rule book on the conduct of the Rajya Sabha that empowers the Chairman to name an MP disrupting the proceedings and tell him to withdraw from the House for the entire day.

At this, the Congress MPs stood up and loudly protested against any such step by the Chair.

Naidu then asked the floor leaders of various parties one by one whether the discussion on farmers' distress should be continued or not. Almost every floor leader cutting across party lines, barring the Congress, RJD and AAP, opined that the discussion should be continued.

Congress leader Anand Sharma said the discussion could be taken up when the House was in order. Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) member Manoj Jha said the current situation of the House was like the "past revisiting us". An Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) member said the TMC should be heard first briefly.

The rest of the leaders including from the Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, CPI, AIADMK, Shiv Sena, SAD and others said the discussion should be allowed to continue.

Naidu adjourned the House till 3 p.m. But as soon as the House met at 3 p.m., it was adjourned for the day amid TMC sloganeering.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Delhi Social Welfare Minister Rajendra Pal Gautam on Tuesday ordered an audit of all shelter homes in the city, after cases of sexual abuse were reported from such homes in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

Gautam, in an order to the Secretary, Social Welfare, gave directions for carrying out audits of all shelter homes -- government as well as private -- across the city.

"The incidents of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are sad and shocking. I want to ensure no such thing happens in Delhi," Gautam told IANS.

"It is the responsibility of the government to provide security, safety and justice to the citizens," he added.
Mumbai, Aug 7 : The Maharashtra government has recommended to the Centre to confer the Bharat Ratna on the renowned 19th century social reformers, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and his wife Savitribai, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced here on Tuesday.

He made the announcement while addressing a conference of Rashtriya OBC (Other Backward Castes) Mahasangh in Mumbai for conferring the country's highest civilian award on the Phule couple posthumously, over a century after they passed away.

Incidentally, Fadnavis had made a similar announcement in the state legislature two years ago, requesting the Centre to confer the honour to mark Mahatma Phule's 125th death anniversary.

Jyotirao Govindrao Phule, later revered as Mahatma Phule, was born on April 11, 1827 and his wife Savitribai K. Patil was born on January 3, 1831, both in different villages in Satara district.

When Jyotirao was 13, he was married to the nine-year-old Savitribai, hailing from an aristocratic farming family.

Born in a lower caste, Mahatma Phule was a thinker, social reformer, anti-caste activist and writer while his wife followed in his footsteps besides being an educationist and a poetess. She also worked against the practice of dowry.

The couple fought against the caste system, untouchability, and for reforms in Hindu family life and later founded the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873 to seek equal rights for people from lower castes.

They are credited with launching the first school for girls in Bhidewada, Pune in 1848, with Savitribai as its first teacher. The duo taught girls irrespective of caste, creed or economic background.

The first school started with just nine girls/women as students and later expanded by opening 18 such schools in the state, marking a historic milestone in the area of female education which was considered taboo in the then prevalent orthodox Indian society.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday told Assam's National Register of Citizens (NRC) Coordinator Prateek Hajela to ensure an error-free final NRC, instead of giving interviews to the media.

The bench of Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman warned Hajela, and Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India (RGCC) Sailesh to be "cautious in future".

Hajela had told the media that any valid document would be accepted as proof of citizenship during the hearing on complaints and objections by those left out in the draft NRC.

Taking suo motu cognizance of Hajela's interview to a national daily, Justice Gogoi said: "Where is the necessity, scope and authority in you to make such a statement? Your job is to carry on with the draft and prepare the final NRC."

Displeased over the action of Hajela, Justice Nariman said: "Speaking for myself, I was appalled by your action... And don't forget you are an officer of the court."

Telling Hajela that "whatever you say, reflects on us", the bench asked: "Should we send you both (including RGCC) to jail for contempt?"

The court told Hajela that he was first an officer of the court and should not have spoken to the media about the NRC.

"It is most unfortunate on your part as well as the RGCC. Your job is to prepare the final NRC. Your job is not to go to press holding brief for somebody," the bench said.

The court reminded RGCC Sailesh that on an earlier occasion, too, he was warned by the court on his actions vis-a-vis preparation of the NRC.

"And you, we had warned you before," Justice Gogoi told Sailesh.

At the outset of the hearing, Justice Gogoi, holding the copy of the newspaper in which Hajela had given the interview about ongoing exercise for preparing final NRC for Assam, asked him "what is this?

"Are you in any manner concerned with the claims and objections? What is this question of new documents", Justice Gogoi asked Hajela telling him that his job was only to carry on with the draft NRC and prepare final citizens register.

Justice Gogoi also read out the order passed by the court in its last hearing on July 31.

In its last order, the court had said: "... what has been published is only the Complete Draft NRC which naturally being a draft cannot be the basis of any action by any authority."

The court had also recorded the statement of Attorney General K.K. Venugopal that the Central government was in the process of "preparing modalities in the form of standard operating procedures" to deal with claims and objections through a fair process.

Having hauled up Hajela and RGCC Sailesh for exceeding their brief and speaking to the media, the court said that next hearing on the matter would take place on August 16 when court would consider the standard operating procedures being prepared by the Centre for dealing with claims and objections to the draft NRC.

In pursuance to July 2 top court's direction, the draft NRC was published on July 30.

It will also pass further orders with regard to the time schedule and different steps that would be undertaken for preparig the final NRC.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 7 : Former Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Oommen Chandy said on Tuesday that the implications of excluding four million people from the draft National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam are grave, and that the issue must be debated by all sections of the society.

The recent Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting in Delhi had discussed the issue in detail, Chandy said, adding that it took note of the anguish among those whose names have not made it to the list.

"Even though the government cites national security, ironically some ex-defence personnel, former ministers, MLAs and other eminent citizens and families have not made it to the list," said Chandy in his Facebook post on Tuesday.

"While non-inclusion of such names has caught the attention of the media, the poor and faceless have none to turn to for help," he said.

Chandy is currently the AICC general secretary in charge of Andhra Pradesh and is now touring that state as part of reviving the party there.

He lashed out at the BJP who, he said, has been creating an impression that the Congress is hypocritical and is opposing the NRC for political gains, despite starting the process as a part of the Assam Accord, 1985.

"A BJP MLA from Telangana has advocated shooting those who refuse to leave the country. The BJP has not taken action against him, implying that the party concurs with his views. The Congress does not oppose the NRC," he said.

"On the contrary, it was in 2009 that Rs 489 crore was allocated for the enumeration process and about 80 per cent of the process was completed by 2014. It is the BJP that is politicizing the issue," said Chandy.

"Nothing can be more tragic than agents of the state turning against its own bona-fide citizens and terming them aliens or disparagingly calling them outsiders," said Chandy.
Mumbai, Aug 7 : "Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety" actor Shibesh Debnath has joined the cast of "Mere Sai" in which the problems that he faced in life due to his short height will be shown.

"It's a great opportunity for me to be part of a wonderful show like 'Mere Sai'. For the first time on television, all the things that I have faced in real life will be showcased on screen," Shibesh said in a statement.

"How Sai baba explains the importance of an individual's talent and capability, which are far superior than their height and physical attributes, will be the turning point of the story," he added.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Veteran actor-social activist Shabana Azmi, who has expressed her angst against item songs in the past, on Tuesday said lyricists must take care to avoid derogatory words.

"I am against the use of item songs in the films. The words which are being used in such songs are derogatory and are against the image of females," said the "Arth" actress during an interactive session 'Baithak', organised by News18 here.

Shabana cited the lyrics of the "Fevicol se" song from superstar Salman Khan-starrer "Dabangg 2".

"I don't feel there is any need to include item song in movies. They are not even related to the story. Lyricists should think twice before writing such songs," added the 67-year-old actress, wife of celebrated writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar.

She also spoke about the changing content in Bollywood films and women-oriented films.

From "Damini" in 1993 to "Pink" in 2016, Bollywood has made quite a number of women-oriented films, but Shabana says now the content has evolved and instead of showing weak and helpless women, Bollywood has started portraying strong female characters.

Shabana, who is known for raising her voice for women's rights, believes India has not progressed completely as female foeticide is still practiced.

"Now, I just don't want to point out the issues, I want to bring out the solution and fight for women with them," added Shabana, who cited her late father and writer Kaifi Azmi's words.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Considered an elixir for your baby, breast milk and breast-feeding play a key role in your childs development. Over the years, the health benefits of breast-feeding have been emphasised to create awareness about the impact of nursing on the overall development of your baby.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breast-feeding for the first six months. However, if we are to go by the statistics, only two out of five women initiate the practice within the first hour of childbirth.

Dr Subhashini N.S., Ayurveda expert, R&D, The Himalaya Drug Company, tells us why breast-feeding is important.

Breast milk is the best, easiest and the most accessible source of nourishment for baby

Breast milk helps protect babies from illness such as cold, flu, pneumonia and infections, due to the presence of immunoglobulins and antibodies

Breast-feeding can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes as well as certain types of breast and ovarian cancer.

Breast milk provides the ideal nutrition for infants. It has a nearly perfect mix of vitamins, protein and fat. And, it is all provided in an easily digestible form. Breast milk contains immunoglobulins and antibodies that help your baby fight viruses and bacteria.

Plus, babies who are breast-fed exclusively for the first six months have fewer ear infections, respiratory illnesses, and bouts of diarrhea.

When breast-feeding, it is important to maintain breast hygiene while your breasts adjust to the new lactating state. A few tips:

Clean your breasts and nipples properly to avoid any breast-feeding-related infections. It is advisable to simply clean your breasts and apply a nipple care butter infused with kokum butter and virgin coconut oil, which soothe, heal and protect dry, cracked and sore nipples

To avoid unexpected leaks and stickiness after a feeding session, you can use nursing wipes enriched with coconut oil

It is recommended that you stay away from synthetic products to clean your nipples, so opt for products with natural ingredients to treat soreness, cracks and for instant hygiene needs.

It is advisable to feed your baby as often as possible, about every two hours or so, as breast milk gets digested quickly. The best way to feed your baby (whether breast or bottle-feeding) is to first choose a calm room, away from any noise or distraction. Make yourself and your baby comfortable on a chair or couch with plenty of cushions around for support.

Breastfeeding is nature's'way of helping new mothers recover quickly from the trauma of childbirth, supporting her health, and providing the perfect opportunity to bond with the baby. Most mothers find it difficult to breast-feed in public as nursing in public is not common in India. Ensure that you do not breast-feed your baby in an unhygienic environment such as washrooms, especially when you are travelling. This can make you and your baby vulnerable to infections.

Taking cognisance of the fact that mothers need to breast-feed in a healthy and safe environment, Himalaya BabyCare has set up over 120 breast-feeding booths in Kempegowda International Airport and Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, as well as railway and bus stations in Rajasthan.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Tuesday said that the Congress and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) are conspiring to not let Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah speak in the Rajya Sabha.

"He (Amit Shah) is the President of the world's largest party. Won't he be allowed to speak in the upper House of which he is a member? It is not just TMC ... there is a tacit support of the Congress party too (in not allowing Shah to speak)," Prasad told reporters outside Parliament.

Earlier in the Rajya Sabha, as Shah stood up to speak on the hiked MSP for kharif and agrarian issues, the TMC members came near the Chairman's podium and shouted slogans.

When Chairman Naidu tried to invoke the Rule that allows the Chair to remove a disrupting member from the House, the Congress MPs stood up in protest.

Prasad said the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill 2018, too, was listed in the day's business which could not be taken up due to disruptions and adjournments.

"The Congress is anti-Dalit and anti-tribal," he said.
Bengaluru, Aug 7 : Along with the cold dusty damp weather of the monsoon season, the climate also brings skin-related issues which makes the skin look dull. To conquer these facial battles, and bring back the freshness, the use of dermal fillers is the current rage in the skin care market.

Dr. Debraj Shome, Consultant Facial Plastic Surgeon and Director, The Esthetic Clinics shares few common monsoon skin problems and tricks to combat them:
New Delhi, Aug 7 : A nine-year-old student of a private school was allegedly molested by his seniors thrice in their school bus here, police said on Tuesday.

A case has been registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Shahdara, Ved Prakash Surya said the incident happened in east Delhi's Vivek Vihar.

The victim, he said, has complained that three of his seniors harassed him. The three accused are students of Classes 7, 8 and 10.

"The kid has alleged that he was touched inappropriately and molested by his seniors on three days -- July 27, July 30, and on August 1 -- while going back home in the school bus.

"They used to take him to the back of the bus and touch his private parts," Surya said.

He said the kid was traumatized by their behaviour and had locked himself in a room.

"After he revealed the incidents to his mother, she filed a police complaint on Monday evening," the police officer said, adding that an investigation is on.
Dhaka, Aug 7 : Ambassadors from EU member countries in Bangladesh and Human Rights Watch on Tuesday condemned the violence against students protesting over the lack of road safety in the country's capital.

The protests began on July 29 after two young men were killed and several others wounded after being hit by a speeding bus. The demonstrations brought Dhaka to a standstill.

"EU Heads of Mission stress that the violent scenes in Dhaka in recent days, particularly where schoolchildren and young people have been caught in protests or violent clashes with other groups, are a source of real concern," an EU delegation to Bangladesh said in a statement signed by eight EU ambassadors.

The ambassadors included those from Spain, Italy, Germany and France, Efe news reported.

"Incidents of unlawful or disproportionate violence or action against protesters, journalists or others need to stop. Earlier incidents must be investigated and perpetrators held to account," the statement said.

The EU said it expected "all sides to remain calm and to respect the right to peaceful protest".

Sunday saw the worst incidents of violence during the nine days of the protest as security forces used riot control measures to disperse the crowds. Violent counter demonstrators were also involved in clashes with protesters and around 20 photojournalists.

The EU heads of mission praised the students for highlighting the issue of road safety in Bangladesh and welcomed the government's decision to address the issue.

According to the Bangladesh National Committee for the Protection of Ships, Highways and Railroads, in 2017, 4,289 people died in 3,472 traffic accidents in the country.

HRW also issued a statement on Tuesday condemning the violent repression of the protests, allegedly carried out by the youth wing of the ruling Awami League as well as drawing attention to the arrests of students, activists and journalists like photographer Shahidul Alam.

He is accused of conducting a smear campaign against the Bangladeshi government and spreading rumours about student protests.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Rajya Sabha Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday expressed concern over members' absence from the House during passage of a Bill that accords constitutional status to the OBC Commission.

"Yesterday (Monday), I was just thinking and also calculating. We were exactly a little above the mark. That's all. Otherwise, you could not have got it approved . Please keep that in mind," he said.

The Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2018 granting constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes.

All 156 members present in the House voted for the Bill. Te present strength of the House is 244.

Terming the Bill historic, he said: "I also felt very happy. Even I tweeted also about giving constitutional status to the OBC Commission. On such a Constitutional Amendment where there is unanimity, where there is concern, we just scraped through," he said.

On such matters, parties should caution its members by issuing whips and directing them to be there in time and also vote.

"If somebody takes note of it and then write some commentary, it will be a sad commentary on our functioning. Please take note, whenever there is important legislation in Parliament, be present in large numbers so that a message goes to the society," he remarked.

The Chairman also took strong note of the ministers making statement on behalf of their colleagues.

"I will not allow any statement made by any minister on behalf of any other," he said.

Taking note of the members coming late after the proceedings start, he requested them to be punctual.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Indias central auditor has castigated the government over defence cost and time overruns and irregularities in bids for procurements, including a $2.1 billion deal of January 2009 to buy P8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft from Boeing, risking the preparedness and effectiveness of the Armed Forces.

The report tabled in parliament said that the US company Boeing was favoured over its Spanish competitor EADS CASA to procure the fleet of P8I - an aircraft that has been deployed on all key missions and exercises of the Indian Navy.

The report said the Defence Ministry while evaluating the bids for conclusion of the contract for a long range maritime reconnaissance anti-submarine warfare aircraft "enhanced the financial bid of EADS CASA to cater for 20 years product support cost while ignoring this element in respect of Boeing, USA.

"The contract was concluded with Boeing in January 2009 ($2.1 billion). At a later date, Boeing offered the product support under a separate negotiable contract and consequently the deduced ranking of Boeing as L-1 (lowest bidder) turned out to be incorrect."

The auditor said it has found that Boeing has not met its offset obligations of $ 641 million till March 2018, despite the contract specifying that all obligations have to be fulfilled by August 2016.

The report said the critical role equipment of Boeing were not fully meeting the needs of the Indian Navy.

"Owing to capability limitations of radars installed onboard, the aircraft is not able to achieve the envisaged coverage area requirements. The (naval staff qualitative requirements) NSQRs had envisaged the procurement of torpedoes and 'X' bombs as the ammunition for anti-submarine warfare."

However, the contract for procurement of 'X' bombs had not yet been concluded and reasons for non-procurement of 'X' bombs were yet to be intimated by the Indian Navy.

Thus, in the absence of the bombs, the anti-submarine warfare "capability of the aircraft could only be partially fulfilled", it said.

Besides the eight ordered in 2009, India ordered an additional four P8I in 2016 in a $1 billion deal.

The report also lashed out at the government over the proposed indigenous development of an Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system which was approved in 2004 at a cost of Rs 1,800 crore to be completed by 2011.

"Besides, non-achievement of certain operational requirements specified by (the Indian Air Forces), there was time overrun of 70 per cent. Selection of Embraer as platform created design constraints and caused delay. The achievement of indigenisation was only about 48 per cent of project cost. The project conceived in 2002 is yet to be fully realised leaving gaps in air surveillance capability of the IAF."

It has also highlighted irregularity in procurement of MiG aircraft tyres through "faulty tendering process adopted since 2009"

This has resulted in the contract being repeatedly awarded to the same foreign vendor, despite the vendor supplying defective tyres.

"The IAF is saddled with defective, unusable 3080 MiG tyres from the firm, valuing Rs 5.92 crore. Faulty RFP was issued as it did not correctly specify the quality requirement and the price evaluation criteria. Vendors were selected for issue of RFP on pick and choose basis."

Indigenisation was forgone to facilitate import of tyres.

Pointing out irregularities in tendering for repair and overhaul of Mi-17 1V helicopters, the report said the IAF "unwarrantedly" delayed the procurement of repair and overhaul facility for the helicopters.

"Repair and overhaul of the helicopters suffered from severe delays, excess expenditure and monopolization of repair and overhaul of helicopters by the Russian firm. By the time the contract was signed, most of the helicopters were grounded for want of repairs. By not setting up of the facility which would have costed about Rs 196 crore, the IAF committed to spend more than Rs 600 crore by sending the helicopters abroad for repairs."

The audit has also found inadequacies in the support facilities at IAF airfields adversely affecting their readiness.

These included facilities like restoration of runway after bombing, modernisation of communication systems, safe landing and take-off of aircraft, surveillance of aircraft while in air, refuelling of aircraft and handling of armaments to be loaded on the aircraft.

The government implemented a project for modernisation of airfield infrastructure at a cost of Rs 1220 cr by 2014 for a specified number of airfields. But till date, only a few number of airfields were commissioned.

"There were shortfalls in the equipment to be held by the airfields, which was mainly due to delay in the procurement," said the report about the operational readiness of the IAF airfields which is vital for air operations, especially during conflict.
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 7 : Normal life was disrupted in Kerala on Tuesday as public and private buses and other vehicles went off the roads in response to a one-day strike called by All India Motor Transport Organisation.

The 24-hour strike began on Monday midnight, following which auto-rickshaws, taxis, freight vehicles, state-owned as well as private buses stopped plying across Kerala.

Private vehicles, though, continued to ply as usual across the state.

Attendance was thin or practically nil in offices and educational intuitions. "I did not go to the school and will have to apply for leave. In my school, few teachers turned up. Students however did not turn up," a schoolteacher told IANS here.

With most vehicles off the roads, there was a huge rush on the Kochi Metro.

In the state capital, Health Minister K.K. Shailaja reached office riding pillion on a staff member's two-wheeler.

"My party (CPI-M) is taking part in the protest. So, I just followed the oft-adopted practice of arriving at office (on a two-wheeler)," said Shailaja.

Another Minister K.T. Jaleel also rode pillion on a two-wheeler for about 20 km from here to attend a function.

Even automobile workshops and spare-parts shops remained closed due to the shutdown.

The transport body is demanding withdrawal of the proposed Motor Vehicle Amendment Bill, since passed by the Lok Sabha but awaiting the Rajya Sabha's nod.

Barring the Bharatiya Janata Party-affiliated Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, all the other trade unions are backing the protest.

Shops and establishments were open in several districts, but markets wore a deserted look due to non-arrival of lorries ferrying consumables.

People had a tough time commuting to and from railways stations. Police said it was trying its best to ensure transport for patients in need of emergencies.

Minor skirmishes were reported from a few places between protesters and drivers of taxis and auto-rickshaws who tried to ply vehicles despite the shutdown.

At several places, the protesters waiting at important road junctions could be seen chasing away those driving public vehicles.

The protesters are also demanding reduction in insurance premium, besides an end to frequent hikes in the prices of petrol and diesel.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Union Minister Anant Geete on Tuesday said the country needs to "move ahead with E-Mobility" and to go from low emissions to no emissions.

The Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises spoke at the national conference and technology display on "Electric Mobility - Scaling up Auto Component Industry in India" held here.

The minister said: "We need to develop a mindset and move ahead with E-Mobility. We have to move from low emission to 'no emission'".

"The government of India will support the R&D which will be required to tackle all obstacles. India is emerging as the biggest market in the world. So, we have to safeguard the interests of our consumers and the industries while moving towards our goal."

The one day conference was organised by the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA).

According to Sunjay Kapur, Managing Director, Sona BLW Precision Forgings and the Conference Chairman, electric mobility will bring about a complete transformation of the entire industry value chain, once it gains wider acceptance.

"Though there are several aspects of disruption in the automobile industry, electrification remains one of the key factors. The way forward as we all agree is electric mobility," Kapur said.

"With FAME-II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India) we expect the policy to enable localisation that helps grow the auto component sector."

Anil Srivastava, Adviser and DG, Development Monitoring and Evaluation Office (DMEO), NITI Aayog, said that states are working together proactively to move in the direction of electric mobility.

"Globally, the entire emphasis on the movement of people is shifting. E-Mobility is gaining increased importance in day to day activities and the economic activities of the country," Srivastava said.
Bengaluru, Aug 7 : Karnataka on Tuesday launched a round-the-clock information and grievance helpline for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) across the state.

"The 'Kalyana Kendra' (welfare centre) helpline will allow members of these communities to get information on the state's welfare programmes for them as well as register complaints," a Social Welfare Department statement said.

The helpline telephone number is 080-22634300 while Whatsapp and text messaging services can be accessed on 9901100000.

The department has not mentioned the number of SCs/STs in the southern state and how it will identify the callers through phone calls without a caste census data.

Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara, who launched the helpline, urged for its use to know about the benefits the state offered for the SCs/STs.

"The helpline is meant to strive for the welfare and development of the downtrodden and the weaker sections. The success of this initiative will be determined by the level of public engagement," Parameshwara said on the occasion.

People can also register their complaints on discrimination and abuse anonymously on the helpline.

"This is a first-of-its-kind effort to ensure that SCs and STs are empowered with information and processes of availing of government benefits meant for them," said Social Welfare Minister Priyank Kharge.

A person registering any complaint through the helpline will be provided a registration number, after which it will be forwarded to the officials concerned.

The details of the action taken on the complaint will be provided to the applicant within a specified time, the statement said.
Chennai, Aug 7 : The mortal remains of DMK President M. Karunanidhi will be taken to his home at Gopalapuram here from the Kauvery Hospital and then to Rajaji Hall for people to pay their last respects, said a senior DMK leader.

"The plan is to take our leader's body to his residence at Gopalapuram. And from there to Rajaji Hall for people to pay their last respects," the leader told IANS.

As per plans, Karunanidhi's mortal remains will be laid to rest on Wednesday.

Karunanidhi, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for five times, died on Tuesday evening at the Kauvery Hospital.
Kolkata, Aug 7 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday mourned the death of DMK stalwart M. Karunanidhi, saying the country has lost one of its greatest sons.

"Today India lost one of its greatest sons. And Tamil Nadu lost its father figure. Farewell Kalaignar. My deepest condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu, DMK and family. India mourns your loss," Banerjee wrote on her Twitter handle.

A former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi, 94, died on Tuesday evening at the Kauvery Hospital.
Chennai, Aug 7 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami on Tuesday expressed his grief over the death of DMK President M. Karunanidhi.

The AIADMK leader said in a statement that he was anguished on hearing about the demise of the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, a very senior politician and a leader of the DMK for 50 long years.

Karunanidhi fought for social justice, the Chief Minister said. His death is a great loss to the state. He offered his condolences to the late leader's family members.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : A Parliamentary panel on Tuesday said RBI's new guidelines on default will worsen the crisis in the power sector and suggested changes.

"The new guidelines of the RBI will only deepen the crisis of the electricity sector as its leitmotif is distinct, peculiar and sector specific without any generic underpinning with other sectors of the economy," the Standing Committee on Energy said in its report.

The high rate of non-performing assets (NPA) in Indian banks is sector specific with major concentration in sectors like infrastructure, power, iron, steel and textile. Total NPA in power sector has exceeded Rs 1.8 lakh crore.

The panel noted that the definition of default has been revised and the same has been aligned to the definition of default given in Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC).

The committee, headed by Lok Sabha MP Kambhampati Haribabu, said the reasons of stress in different sectors are separate and varying, and thus needs a closer look.

For the power sector, factors like coal linkage, delay in implementation, non-availability of fuel, delay in land/environment clearances and need of extra funds have aggravated the problem and weak financial health of distribution companies have impacted their liquidity position, it said.

"The committee postulates that the specifics and realities of the sector should be taken into account for appropriate modulation of the RBI Guidelines," the report said.

The committee said it has learnt that finding an optimal solution for a stressed asset exactly in 180 days is almost impossible and that lending institutions have stated that 12 months are needed for a smooth and efficient resolution.

"The Committee feels that going by the prescribed timelines, every stressed project of the power sector will ultimately land in National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).

About 66 GW of conventional energy is under various degrees of financial stress which include 54,805 MW of coal based power (44 assets), 6,831 MW of gas based power (nine assets) and 4,571 MW of hydro power (13 assets), it added.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of DMK veteran leader M. Karunanidhi, saying India has lost a great son, who strode the stage of Tamil politics like a colossus for over six decades.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," Gandhi said in a tweet.

Karunanidhi, 94, passed away on Tuesday evening. He was admitted to the hospital on July 28 and his condition worsened on Monday.
Chhattisgarh, Aug 7 : A CRPF officer was injured on Tuesday in a powerful blast triggered by Maoists targeting security personnel in a forest area in Sukma district of Chhattisgarh, a police official said.

Bastar Inspector General of Police (IGP) Vivekanand Sinha said a joint team of police and CRPF personnel was on routine patrolling in Chintalnar forests when the incident took place.

The blast was triggered as Assistant Commandant K. Ijung inadvertently stepped on the improvised explosive device (IED).

Ijung suffered serious injuries and he is undergoing treatment in a Raipur hospital, Sinha added.

A gun battle is still going on between the security forces and Maoists, Superintendent of Police Abhishek Meena said towards Tuesday evening.

On Monday, at least 15 suspected Maoists were killed during an encounter with security forces in Mika Tong forest in Sukma district. Four suspected Maoists were also arrested following the operation.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Union Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir on Tuesday told the Lok Sabha that there was a reduction in Naxal violence and its geographical spread since 2017.

The violent incidents have come down to 908 in 2017 from a high of 2258 in 2009 and their geographical spread of violence has also shrunk considerably, Ahir said in written reply to a question in the Lower House.

According to the ministry, 90 districts in 11 states are currently covered by the Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme. The districts affected by the left wing extremism are Wayanad, Palakkad and Malappuram, in Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu tri-junction and Balaghat, Mandala in Madhya Pradesh, Gondia in Maharashtra and Rajnandgaon in Chhattisgarh tri-junction.

However, there was a "limited success" in the expansion of Communist Party of India (Maoist) activities to both the tri-junctions, the minister said.

In order to combat Left wing extremism (LWE), a national policy and action plan had been initiated which include development of roads, installation of mobile towers, skill development, improving network of banks and post offices, health and education facilities, particularly in the most affected districts.

The minister said "these measures have contributed towards weaning away the people from Maoist influence and increased support for the Government."
Islamabad, Aug 7 : Pakistan's former Army Chief General Raheel Sharif did not obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the Cabinet before leaving for Saudi Arabia to head a 41-nation military alliance, the attorney general informed the apex court on Tuesday.

During the hearing of a suo motu case regarding dual nationality of civil servants and judges, Attorney General Khalid Jawed Khan said that as per the law, the NOC is issued by the federal government to government officers willing to join service in foreign lands, Dawn online reported.

"As per law, it is required for the NOC to be approved by the federal Cabinet," the attorney told the three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Saqib Nisar.

The Supreme Court on August 1 sought a report from the government asking how it allowed General (retd) Raheel Sharif and former Director-General Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt. Gen. (retd) Ahmed Shuja Pasha take up foreign jobs in violation of a law that restrained government officers from doing so for two years post-retirement.

Gen. Sharif left for Riyadh in April 2017 to head the military alliance led by Saudi Arabia. He retired in 2016.

The Attorney General presented the legal perspective after Defence Secretary Lt. Gen. (retd) Zamirul Hassan informed the court that it was the Defence Ministry which had granted NOC to Gen. Sharif after General Headquarters cleared him to accept the post of commander of the Islamic alliance.

Speaking about Lt. Gen. Pasha, the Defence Secretary told the court that the former ISI Director General informed in his reply that he is "currently unemployed".

Earlier, media reports said the former ISI chief, after his retirement in 2012, worked with a multinational firm in the UAE. He is now serving as a group chief adviser to a Lahore-based firm owned by a Pakistani politician.

The Defence Secretary also told the bench that Army had began an exercise to identify those with foreign citizenship even though the law prohibited Army personnel from possessing dual nationality.

The court will resume hearing the case after the summer vacation.
Jodhpur, Aug 7 : : A special court in the city on Tuesday sentenced two persons to death for the abduction, gang-rape and murder of a minor girl in a "dastardly and grisly" manner.

The convicts, Shravan Singh and Ghewar Singh, were charged with abducting a minor girl from her home in village Rinva in Barmer's Chohtan sub-division on March 29-30, 2013, and gang-raping her.

Her body was found dumped in the mounds around the area the next day. Police arrested five persons and booked them under various sections of IPC, SC/ST Act and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Terming the crime the rarest of the rare, special judge Vamita Singh said death sentence was required to ensure justice.

Apart from the two convicts, the court also convicted the co-accused Shankar Singh, Prahlad Singh and Narsing for hiding the crime and pressuring the victim and the family to withdraw the case. They were sentenced to seven-year rigorous imprisonment.

The court turned down the defence counsel plea for a milder sentence. The plea said the accused are fathers of small children and have no criminal antecedents. "A minor girl was abducted and gang-raped without any provocation and brutally murdered and the murder was so gruesome that it stirred the conscience of the society... only the death sentence would do justice," the court said.
Chennai, Aug 7 : Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M. Karunanidhi, who was one of the two poles in the state and who was in public life for 80 long years, died on Tuesday evening after waging a grim battle for life in a city hospital, leaving a void in the Dravidian politics and triggering nationwide mourning for an essentially regional leader.

"With deep anguish, we announce the demise of our beloved Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi at 6.20 p.m.," said a statement from Kauvery Hospital in the heart of Chennai where thousands of DMK cadres and fans have been camping for days hoping for a miraculous recovery.

"Despite the best possible efforts by a team of doctors and nurses to resuscitate him, he failed to respond. We profoundly mourned the loss of one of the tallest leaders of India and we share the grief of family members and fellow Tamilians worldwide."

The news of the 94-year-old mass leader's death cast a pall of gloom across the sprawling state which he had enticed all his political career through powerful oratory and script writing that changed the course of politics and the way Tamil cinema was made and helped the DMK's growth. He was just 14 when be became a student activist.

Men and women, who had been praying for their leader's recovery, wailed outside the hospital as news of his death broke. By then, Chennai was already tense, with residents stocking essentials like milk and vegetables anticipating a state-wide shutdown.

The mortal remains of the DMK President will be taken to his home in Gopalapuram here and then to Rajaji Hall for people to pay their last respects. The Tamil Nadu government announced a week-long mourning.

A DMK leader said Karunanidhi's mortal remains will be laid to rest on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a host of Chief Ministers, Congress President Rahul Gandhi and several others from across the country are expected to fly to Chennai on Wednesday.

Karunanidhi leaves two wives -- Dayalu and Rajathi, three sons including DMK Working President M.K. Stalin and former Union Minister M.K. Alagiri, daughter Kanimozhi (MP) and several grandchildren.

The DMK patriarch, who had faded from public life for nearly two years, had been in and out of hospital on account of age-related ailments. His admission to the Kauvery Hospital early on July 28 followed a sudden dip in blood pressure.

Occasionally, the hospital claimed improvement in his condition. But on Monday it said there has been a decline in his health and that maintaining his vital organ functions continued to remain a challenge. It also said that his response to medical interventions over the next 24 hours would determine the prognosis.

Even on Tuesday evening, the hospital came out with a bulletin saying there had been a significant decline in the condition of Karunanidhi "over the last few hours". It said: "His condition is extremely critical and unstable."

Even before the grim bulletins were issued, Karunanidhi's family and the state appeared to be preparing for the inevitable.

Stalin accompanied by Alagiri and Kanimozhi and top leaders of the party met Chief Minister E. Palaniswami and pressed for Karunanidhi's body to be interred on the Marina Beach near DMK stalwart C.N. Annadurai's mausoleum. But the government declined the request.

Ahead of his death, the Tamil Nadu Police mobilized all its personnel across the state.

Karunanidhi, who only 10 days ago completed 49 years as DMK chief, led his party through various ups and downs against charismatic rivals M.G. Ramachandran, who had banished him to the opposition ranks till his own death in 1987, and J. Jayalalithaa, who died in 2016.

From 1967, when the DMK ousted the Congress for ever from power in the state, Tamil Nadu has been ruled either by the DMK or AIADMK.

Succeeding his mentor Annadurai in 1969 as Chief Minister, Karunanidhi maintained a strong hold over the party and government.

Though he didn't aspire for politics beyond Tamil Nadu, the multi-faceted leader played key roles in national politics starting from when he aligned with Indira Gandhi in 1969 on issues like bank nationalisation and later in the formation of coalition governments under V.P. Singh, H.D. Deve Gowda, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh.

Once the ethnic conflict erupted in Sri Lanka in 1983, Karunanidhi became a champion of the Tamil cause and, later, the Tamil Tigers, often putting pressure on New Delhi to change its course vis-a-vis Colombo. But the LTTE's assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 almost wiped out the DMK, leaving him as the sole winner in Assembly elections.

It was one of the 13 Assembly elections he never lost and which helped him rule Tamil Nadu five times.

As Chief Minister, he had pioneered several welfare schemes and introduced freebies in the country's politics. An avowed atheist, Karunanidhi was known for his trademark dark glasses as well as a yellow stole. The latter, critics felt, betrayed his hidden superstitious feelings.
Mumbai, Aug 7 : The functioning of government offices across Maharashtra was hit on Tuesday as around 17 lakh state employees launched a three-day strike over their pending demands, including implementation of the 7th Pay Commission report.

This, despite the fact that the state government on Monday night adopted a tough stand and invoked the MESMA (Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act). It warned of strict disciplinary action and salary cuts against those who failed to report for duty.

Simultaneously, it also announced the payment of pending Dearness Allowance (DA) for 14 months to 150,000 gazetted officers with the August salaries, who withdrew from the three-day agitation.

The strike's impact was felt in the offices of all government departments, which remained largely deserted, virtually paralysing all routine work, with barely five per cent attendance in the Mantralaya, the state government seat at Nariman Point.

Besides, work in government schools, colleges, technical institutes, hospitals, health centres in urban and rural centres was also affected, hitting the poor and senior citizen patients hard.

Most government-run hospitals, including the Sir J. J. Group of Hospitals in Mumbai and other cities, postponed all scheduled surgeries and only performed emergency procedures in the absence of doctors, nursing, other paramedic and support staff.

An official of the Maharashtra State Employees Organisation (MSEO) said that all employees from Mantralaya right up to the taluka levels across all government departments joined the strike.

"We had served the notice for strike on July 16. But since there was no response from the government, we went ahead with the agitation. It has been a 100 per cent success," MSEO President Milind Sardeshmukh claimed.

Maharashtra Government Employees Union General Secretary Avinash Daund questioned why the government was delaying the issue when an announcement to implement the 7th Pay Commission has already been made as well and the budgetary provision for it made.

At several places in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Aurangabad and other important cities, the employees held protest marches or dharnas while raising slogans and asking the state government to immediately concede their demands.

The MSEO has accused the state government of sitting on its demands, including the implementation of the Pay Commission report, which was to be made effective from January 1, 2016.

However, later it dilly-dallied that it was awaiting the K.P. Bakshi Committee report on the matter as implementing the Pay Commission recommendations will entail an additional burden of Rs 21,000 crore on the debt-hit state.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had earlier said the government would implement the 7th Pay Commission report from January 2019 and a budgetary provision of Rs 10,000 crore was made in the last state Budget.

However, the employees' organizations apprehend that in case the general elections are announced by then, the model code of conduct would be enforced and their wait could drag on much longer.

The other major demands of the striking staff include implementation of a five-day week in all government offices, increasing retirement age from 58 to 60 and filling up over 200,000 vacancies.

The unions made it clear that they will not settle for "mere assurances" but only direct action from the government, since the strike was deferred several times in the past few years on such promises.
Chennai, Aug 7 : The Tamil Nadu government on Tuesday declined DMK's request to allot space for burying the mortal remains of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi near party founder C.N. Annadurai's memorial at the Marina Beach.

In a statement, Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan said as there were several cases pending in the Madras High Court over burial of leaders at the Marina Beach, the government was not able to allot space near the Annadurai memorial.

According to her, Chief Minister K. Palaniswami said two acres land would be allotted for Karunanidhi's burial near Gandhi Mandapam on Sardar Patel Road which already houses memorials for K. Kamaraj and others.

Earlier, family members of Karunanidhi led by DMK Working President M.K. Stalin and party officials met Palaniswami and sought space near Annadurai's memorial for burying Karunanidhi's body, DMK leader Duraimurugan told reporters.

A five-times Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi died after battling age related ailments at Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday evening.

The mortal remains of AIADMK founder M.G. Ramachandran and his successor J. Jayalalithaa are buried near Annadurai's memorial on the Marina Beach.
Bhubaneswar, Aug 7 : Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M. Karunanidhi.

Offering his heartfelt condolences to the departed leader, Patnaik described Karunanidhi as the tallest leader of Tamil Nadu, who played a key role in social change and reforms in his state.

"In fact, he was much ahead of his times. As Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for several times, he made significant contributions in the development of the state and played a crucial role in national politics as well," said the Chief Minister.

He also made immense contributions to Tamil literature and cinema. His demise marks the end of an era in Tamil Nadu and India lost one of its worthiest sons, said Patnaik.

The 94-year-old politician breathed his last at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday.

Patnaik prayed peace and tranquility for the departed soul and expressed sympathies to the family members.

Finance Minister Shasibhusan Behera and former Minister Devi Prasad Mishra will attend the funeral of late Karunanidhi, said a communique from Chief Minister's Office.

IANS

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: Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK stalwart M. Karunanidhi who breathed his last at Kauvery Hospital. Karunanidhi, 94, was admitted to the hospital on July 28 and his condition worsened on ... Image Source: IANS

Bengaluru, Aug 7 : Karnataka districts bordering Tamil Nadu have been put on high alert following the death of DMK patriarch M. Karunanidhi, police said on Tuesday.

"Orders have been issued to the Superintendents of Police of Bengaluru Rural, Kolar, Chamarajanagar and Mysuru districts bordering Tamil Nadu to be on high alert," said Karnataka Additional Director General of Police Kamal Pant in a statement here.

Additional police personnel were deployed in sensitive areas and localities where Tamils reside in large numbers in Bengaluru and in border districts.

"It's a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incident. Movement of people and vehicles to Chennai from the state across the border is being regulated," a police official told IANS here.

In a related development, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corp (KSRTC) suspended bus services to cities and towns in Tamil Nadu from Tuesday evening.

"Buses that left Karnataka for Tamil Nadu earlier in the day will remain at destinations they reached till Wednesday under police protection," said the state-run bus operator.

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Washington, Aug 7 : US President Donald Trump on Tuesday issued a strong warning to America's trading partners that anyone who does business with Tehran will not be doing business with Washington, following his administration's re-imposition of sanctions on Iran.

Trump described the new sanctions, which hit Iran's access to dollars, gold and precious metals, as "the most biting ever imposed".

"In November they ratchet up to yet another level," he tweeted. "Anyone doing business with Iran will not be doing business with the US. I am asking for world peace, nothing less!"

Some re-imposed sanctions already took effect and tougher ones relating to oil exports will begin in November. The sanctions followed the US withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, also known as the Iran nuclear deal, earlier this year.

Orchestrated by the Obama administration, the agreement was signed in 2015 between Iran and China, France, Russia, the US, the UK, plus Germany and the EU. It was aimed to restrict Iran's nuclear programme in return for the lifting of international sanctions.

Trump's new warning appeared to be aimed at the EU, which is attempting to protect European businesses trading in Iran from facing US sanctions, according to CNN.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called the measures "psychological warfare" which aimed to "sow division among Iranians". The sanctions take aim at various sectors, with further punitive action planned against Iran's oil trade.

Rouhani said the US government had "turned their back on diplomacy" with the action. "They want to launch psychological warfare against the Iranian nation," he said. However, the Iranian President also said that he was willing to hold talks with Washington to resolve the matter.

He indicated that Iran would want the US to scale back sanctions before any talks could begin.

"Negotiations with sanctions doesn't make sense. We are always in favour of diplomacy and talks... but talks need honesty." The Iranian President also accused the Trump administration of using Tehran as domestic political leverage ahead of November's midterm elections in the US.

"They will exert pressure on us and cause pain, but we will certainly come out of the end of this healthier," he said about the penalties that went back into effect at 12.01 a.m. on Tuesday.

Trump has called the deal "one-sided", "disastrous" and the "worst I've ever seen". He believes renewed economic pressure will force Iran to agree to a new deal and end its "malign" activities.

The other signatories to the deal were sticking with the accord. In a statement on Monday, the EU, the UK, France and Germany said they "deeply regret" the US action. The EU announced it would take legal steps to protect European companies "doing legitimate business in Iran."
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Two Afghan brothers have been arrested here on charges of robbing a Delhi shopkeeper of his laptop and over Rs 2 lakh in cash, police said on Tuesday.

Zamil, 48, and Mustafa, 35, were arrested on Monday from Nizamuddin. They are refugees from Afghanistan and had been residing in Delhi for 25 years on UN support.

Shopkeeper Sukhjeet Singh Anand complained that the two met him last week seeking a house on rent, Deputy Commissioner of Police Chinmoy Biswal said.

When Zamil and Mustafa left, Anand realized that the money from his counter and his laptop bag had disappeared.

Caught with help of CCTV footage, Zamil and Mustafa disclosed that they had indulged in seven cases of robbery using similar modus operandi, Biswal said.
Thane (Maharashtra), Aug 7 : Thane resident, Major Kaustubh P. Rane, was among four Army men killed in Tuesday's encounter with terrorists near the Line of Control (LoC) in Bandipura, Jammu & Kashmir, official sources said.

Major Rane (30) was the only son of his parents.

He lived with his wife Kanika, their three-year-old son and parents Prakash Rane and Jyoti, a retired assistant headmistress of Utkarsh Mandir High School, at Malad in Mumbai.

The Ranes have been living in Thane's Mira Road town for over 25 years. Despite being the only son, he had opted for the Army around six years ago and was currently posted with the 36 Rashtriya Rifles.

His wife and minor son are away at their native place in the Konkan region.

The funeral will be finalised after Major Rane's body was brought here.

Maharashtra Loktantrik Janata Dal (LJD) President and legislator Kapil Patil condoled the death of Major Rane.

The other martyrs are Vikramjit Singh of Haryana, Mandip Singh and Hameer Singh, both from Uttarakhand.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : National leaders on Tuesday condoled the death of DMK President M. Karunanidhi, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi announcing they would attend his last rites in Chennai on Wednesday.

Leaders across party lines expressed grief over the death of the former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister including President Ram Nath Kovind, Modi, Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

"Extremely sad... A doyen of our public life, as a contributor to the development of Tamil Nadu and of India he has few peers. Our country is poorer today. My condolences to his family and millions of well-wishers," President Kovind wrote on Twitter.

Modi expressed his anguish in a series of tweets.

"Deeply saddened by the passing away of Kalaignar Karunanidhi. He was one of the senior most leaders of India. We have lost a deep-rooted mass leader, prolific thinker, accomplished writer and a stalwart whose life was devoted to the welfare of the poor and the marginalized.

"Kalaignar Karunanidhi stood for regional aspirations as well as national progress. He was steadfastly committed to the welfare of Tamils and ensured that Tamil Nadu's voice was effectively heard," Modi said.

Modi said he had the opportunity of interacting with Karunanidhi on several occasions. "His understanding of policy and emphasis on social welfare stood out. Firmly committed to democratic ideals, his strong opposition to the Emergency will always be remembered."

Rahul Gandhi said India lost a great son, who strode the stage of Tamil politics like a colossus for over six decades.

"In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader," he said.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee said Karunanidhi will be deeply missed.

"Sixty years a legislator, five times CM and a pillar of many coalitions at the Centre, he influenced his state's and the national politics like few others. My deepest condolences to his family and admirers," Mukherjee tweeted.

BJP President Amit Shah said no one can forget his struggle during the Emergency.

Among other national leaders, Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechury also condoled the death of the DMK stalwart.

Karunanidhi, 94, passed away on Tuesday evening. He was admitted to the hospital on July 28 and his condition worsened on Monday.
Beirut, Aug 7 : Syria on Tuesday accused Israel of assassinating a top Syrian rocket scientist over the weekend, escalating tensions between the two countries.

Aziz Asbar, a research director at Syria's Scientific Studies and Research Centre, was killed on Saturday by an explosive device targeting his car in Masyaf town of Syria's Hama province, according to Syria's official news agency SANA.

Syrian press reports blamed Israel's Mossad intelligence agency for the killing and said Asbar had survived two previous assassination attempts, also by Israeli agents, according to the New York Times.

The Al-Watan daily newspaper said he was killed because of his "important" work on Syrian defence systems.

An Israeli government spokesman declined to comment on the allegations.

The centre has long been linked by intelligence agencies to Syria's chemical weapons programme. Israeli warplanes are suspected to have targeted the centre's facility on at least two occasions over the past year, the Times reported.

Israel had carried out more than 100 airstrikes against targets in Syria since 2012 aimed either at Iranian military facilities or at attempts to transfer sophisticated weapons to the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon, the report said.

A branch of the centre outside Damascus was among the targets of US strikes in April and the US Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on the institution since 2005.

After the Syrian government carried out what independent inspectors said was a sarin gas attack that killed as many as 100 people in the town of Khan Sheikhoun in 2017, Washington also imposed sanctions on 271 individuals associated with the centre.

Asbar was not among them, perhaps because he was associated with Syria's missile programme rather than the development of chemical weapons, according to the New York Times.

Syria's missile development is a top concern of Israel, in part because of its worries over the expanding influence of Iran there.

The attack came as Syrian troops regained territory along the 1974 demarcation line separating the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights from Syria.

The two countries have been in a state of war since 1967, when Israel occupied the Golan Heights. Although no shots have been fired since the 1974 ceasefire, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad continues to press for the return of the territory.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The contest for the post of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman is expected to be between a Congress nominee backed by other opposition parties and the candidate of the ruling BJP-led NDA as NCP on Tuesday decided against putting up a candidate for the August 9 election.

Sources said that Nationalist Congress Party decided not to field Vandana Chavan, whose name was being "actively considered" by opposition parties, after sensing that she would not get extra support from Biju Janata Dal and Shiv Sena.

The sources said that the NCP conveyed its decision at the meeting of opposition parties convened in the chamber of Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad.

The decision left little choice for the Congress but to put up its candidate in "the fight for principle."

A senior Congress leader said after the meeting that the party will field a candidate but did not reveal any name. He said it will be decided by late evening today.

He said the party was willing to contest the election from the beginning but had also offered to back any other Opposition candidate.

Congress sources said the government had not reached out to it for a consensus but only conveyed that JD-U member Harivansh will be its candidate.

The decision came amid reports that Bihar Chief Minister and JD-U leader Nitish Kumar had called up Odisha Chief Minister and BJD chief Naveen Patnaik to seek support for the party nominee.

Kumar had also called up TRS chief and Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao seeking his party's support for the party candidate.

Congress will give the motion in favour of its nominee on Wednesday. All the motions for the election of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman will be moved on Thursday and taken for vote in succession. If a motion gets carried, others will not be taken up in the House.

Though the Opposition seemed to have an edge in the election initially, the NDA now appears to be carrying the momentum with likely support of AIADMK, TRS as also the BJD.

There is also speculation that BJD may not take part in voting.

The opposition parties had a meeting earlier in the day and a leader conveyed that Vandana Chavan's name was being "actively considered."

The sources said NCP took a decision not to put up a candidate after getting feedback from Shiv Sena and Biju Janata Dal.

Apart from Azad and Pawar, the meeting was attended by Congress leaders Anand Sharma and Ahmed Patel, Samajwadi Party's (SP) Ram Gopal Yadav, NCP's Praful Patel and Communist Party of India's (CPI) D. Raja.

The parties which would support an opposition nominee include the Congress (50), TMC (14), SP (13), TDP (6), CPI-M (5), CPI (2), NCP (4), AAP (3), BSP (4), RJD (5), PDP (2), JD-S (1), Nominated (1), Kerala Congress-Mani (1) and IUML (1).

Rajya Sabha Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu had on Monday announced that the new Deputy Chairman to the upper House will be elected on August 9.

The post fell vacant after P.J. Kurien retired in July.

The election will be held a day before the monsoon session of Parliament concludes.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Locations for 426 additional Aam Aadmi Mohalla Clinics and 300 School Clinics have been finalised, the Delhi government said on Tuesday.

During a review meeting on Mohalla Clinics, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was informed by the Health Department that currently 187 Mohalla Clinics are functional in the city.

Of the 426 locations, 177 were already handed over by the concerned land-owning departments and the rest 249 are ready to be handed over.

The work on these new Mohalla Clinics will be started soon, a statement from the Delhi government said.

In line with the Mohalla Clinics, the School Clinics will be started in government-run schools to improve the health and nutrition of the students. The land for 300 School Clinics has also been identified.

The School Clinics are under pipeline and the work on it will start soon, the statement added.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The second day of the monsoon session of the Delhi Assembly witnessed a ruckus as BJP MLAs' demanded a discussion on the need for a National Register of Citizens for Delhi.

BJP MLA Vijender Gupta also raised the issue of unauthorised hiring of 1,000 low-floor buses in Delhi and alleged that Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot "mentally tortured Transport Secretary Varsha Joshi for not signing the proposal".

He pressed for cancellation of the proposal and an apology from Gahlot.

Terming the shouting of BJP MLAs "an attempt to gain cheap publicity", Speaker Ram Niwas Goel asked Gupta to demand an apology from the Bharatiya Janata Party for "what happened to 32 girls in Muzaffarpur".

As the BJP MLAs, including O.P. Sharma and Jagdish Pradhan, continued shouting for their demands, Goel sent Gupta out of the House. Sharma and Pradhan followed him in protest.

Later, the three MLAs sat outside Kejriwal's office in the Delhi Assembly to show their protest by holding banners, demanding cancellation of the ration and voter ID cards of Bangladeshis in Delhi.

Gupta was also marshalled out of the House on Monday for raising similar demands.
Patna, Aug 7 : The CBI team probing the rape of 34 minor girls in a shelter home in Muzaffarpur on Tuesday visited four places in the town and questioned people believed to be linked to prime accused Brajesh Thakur and his close aide Madhu Kumari, police said.

Madhu Kumari has been evading arrest despite being named as an accused in the case.

"CBI officials met her husband Chand Mian, who said he had no relationship with Madhu for over 12 years," police said.

Facing flak for slow action in the case, the state police on Tuesday raided an old age home in Samastipur district, also run by Brajesh Thakur.

Muzaffarpur Senior Superintendent of police Harpret Kaur has suspended a police inspector Binod Kumar Singh for negligence in inspecting the shelter home in Muzaffarpur.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday again expressed his anguish over the matter. He said that the Patna High Court is monitoring the CBI investigation.

The Muzaffarpur case came to light when the Bihar Social Welfare Department filed an FIR based on a social audit of the shelter home conducted by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Parliament on Tuesday approved the additional gross additional expenditure of Rs 11,697.92 crore for the current fiscal, including Rs 980 crore for equity infusion into the heavily indebted Air India with Finance Minister Piyush Goyal telling the Lok Sabha that the supplementary demands for grants was the lowest in 15 years.

The Lok Sabha passed the Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2018-19 and demands for excess grants for 2015-16 along with the appropriation bills by voice vote, even as opposition members staged a walkout saying the government had not replied to their concerns related to Rafale fighter jet deal.

"This government follows the kind of budget making where there is least deviation between the planned and actual estimates," Goyal said responding to the debate on the supplementary demands for grants.

"This (supplementary demands) is the lowest in the last 15 years. It is just 0.2 per cent of the total budget compared to 14 per cent in 2008-09."

He said the NDA government had brought down the fiscal deficit to 3.3 per cent from 4.4 per cent it had inherited as a "legacy" from the previous government.

The minister said that 400 schemes had been brought under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme under which Rs 4 lakh crore have been disbursed directly to beneficiaries.

As per the latest demands for grants, the net cash outgo amounts to Rs 5,951,22 crore and the government's gross additional expenditure have been shown at Rs 5,745.68 crore.

These are on account of expenditure of Rs 1,791.62 crore for the Agriculture Ministry, Rs 1,500 crore for the Textiles Ministry, Rs 1,057.84 crore for the Defence Ministry and Rs 1,708 crore for the Petroleum Ministry towards creation of capital assets under various schemes.

Under the "technical supplementary demands for grants" of the Civil Aviation Ministry, the government has sought Rs Rs 980 crore towards Turnaround Plan (TAP) for Air India burdened with accumulated debt of Rs 50,000 crore.

The grant has been sought as part of the equity infusion into the national carrier, whose proposed strategic divestment failed to take off earlier this year.

"Taking into account the surrender of savings available in the revenue section of the grant, the Expenditure (Rs 980 crore) will not entail any additional cash outgo," the Supplementary Demand for Grants document said with reference to Air India.

The government has also requested a token provision of Rs 1.02 crore for enabling re-appropriation of savings in cases of new service or new instrument of service.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The Supreme Court will hear on August 13 a plea for a court-monitored SIT probe into the lynching of cattle trader Qasim by cow vigilantes in Hapur in Uttar Pradesh in June.

Chief Justice Dipak Misra agreed to hear the plea as lawyer Vrinda Grover mentioned the matter before a bench, which included Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and Justice Indira Banerjee.

Petitioner Samayuddin, who was also beaten up mercilessly during the lynching of Qasim at Bajhera village in Hapur district on June 18, also pleaded for cancellation of bail granted to the accused.

The petitioner contended that the Uttar Pradesh Police had ignored the top court's direction to curb lynchings.

The Supreme Court had on July 17 issued 22 guidelines to the central and state governments to put an end to the "horrendous acts" of vigilantism, lynching and mobocracy and directed them to work in tandem to take "preventive, remedial and punitive measures".

The top court had said that it was the duty of the State to "ensure that the machinery of law and order functions efficiently and effectively in maintaining peace so as to preserve our quintessentially secular ethos and pluralistic social fabric in a democratic set-up governed by the rule of law."

Of the 22 guidelines, 12 dealt with preventive steps, nine with remedial measures and one punitive action against police officers found wanting at any stage -- prevention, investigation and expeditious trial.

The departmental action "shall be taken to its logical conclusion preferably within six months", the court had said.

The court had also suggested that Parliament enact a law categorising lynching and other forms of vigilantism as a distinct offence and providing for adequate punishment.
Chennai, Aug 7 : The United States on Tuesday condoled the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M. Karunanidhi.

"On behalf of the US Consulate General in Chennai, I offer condolences to the people of Tamil Nadu and Tamils across the world on the passing of former Chief Minister Muthuvel Karunanidhi," Acting US Consul General in Chennai Lauren Lovelace said in a statement.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family," Lovelace said.

A five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi, 94, passed away at a local hospital in Chennai on Tuesday evening.

He was admitted to the hospital on July 28.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba on Tuesday asked a visiting seven-member Nepal Armed Police Force delegation to improve coordination between security forces of the two countries.

During a meeting with the delegation, Gauba exhorted Shailendra Khanal, Inspector General of Nepal Armed Police Force, to improve the coordination between the two forces through joint patrolling, common training of armed forces officers, regular border meetings and other means, said a Home Ministry statement.

Gauba stated that India-Nepal relationship derived strength from shared history, trade, economic partnership, cultural ties and close and intense people-to-people contact. He also appreciated excellent cooperation between security forces of the two countries.

Khanal, who is heading the delegation, also appreciated the coordination between the two countries and emphasised the need for periodic coordination meetings and common training courses for armed police officers of two countries.

The delegation is on official visit here from August 7 to 10 for the 3rd India-Nepal Coordination meeting with Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal -- the 94,000 strong force mandated to guard 1,751 km India-Nepal and 699 km India-Bhutan borders.
Hyderabad, Aug 7 : Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Tuesday said with the demise of M. Karunanidhi, India has lost a political stalwart and it will be difficult to fill the void.

Rao expressed his deep condolences on the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and President of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).

In his condolence message, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) chief said that Karunanidhi was an undaunted political fighter and mass leader who struggled for the socio-economic development of marginalised sections of the society in Tamil Nadu.

Rao will leave for Chennai on Wednesday and participate in the last rites of Karunanidhi. The CM will personally pay tributes on behalf of Telangana people to late Karunanidhi, according to a statement from the Chief Minister's Office.

Telangana and Andhra Pradesh Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan also expressed his condolences on the demise of Karunanidhi.

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the demise of Sri M. Karunanidhi. In his passing away, the nation in general and Tamil Nadu state in particular have lost a great administrator and a wonderful human being. May his soul rest in peace. I convey my condolences to the members of the bereaved family," the Governor said in his message.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The Union Home Ministry has decided to relieve Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) from VIP duties and hand over the responsibility to Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the National Security Guard.

"In order to ensure uniformity and standardization in the specialized task of personal protection duties, the government has decided to progressively relieve CRPF from personal protection duties and assign this task to CISF and NSG," Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangram Ahir told the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

In a written reply, Ahir said at present in the Special Protection Group about 30 per cent officers are from CRPF on deputation and in NSG it is about 11 per cent.

He said steps had been taken considering CRPF's challenging role in Maoist-affected areas and in Jammu and Kashmir.

Currently, the CRPF has been providing security to over 70 VIPs including BJP President Amit Shah, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Reliance Chief Mukesh Ambani.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday granted a month's time to Uttarakhand and a week to Uttar Pradesh to file their compliance reports on the implementation of the 2016 Act on the rights of persons with disabilities.

A bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra posted the mater for hearing in September.

On January 25, the apex court had asked all states and union territories to implement within three months the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, and file compliance reports.

The court was hearing a plea by Justice Sunanda Bhandare Foundation for directions to the Central government and all states to implement the Act.

During the hearing, foundation counsel Manali Singhal told the court that Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Haryana, and Uttarakhand have not filed affidavits.

The counsel for Karnataka and Haryana told the court that their compliance reports were ready and that they would file these during the day.

The Uttarakhand government sought four weeks to file the report while Uttar Pradesh sought a week's time, which the court granted.

The court also asked the petitioner to prepare a chart stating which issues in the Act were not complied with so that it can pass orders.

In 2016, amendments were made to the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995, and the apex court had asked the states and UTs to implement the provisions of the amended Act.

Compared with the 1995 Act, new provisions in the 2016 law had expanded the horizon of the rights of such persons, Singhal said.

The apex court had last year asked states to "scrupulously" follow the 2016 Act which, it said, had brought about a "sea change in the perception" and exhibited a march forward for persons with disabilities.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The National Register of Citizens (NRC) is not a political issue for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and it should not be blamed for a process that was started by the Congress in 1951, BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav said on Tuesday.

"We only saw the interest of state and the nation. In this, we don't see any political advantage. In the register ... names of 40 lakh people aren't there. These people are not intruders or foreigners... People did not take the NRC system seriously.

"... Why is BJP being blamed when the NRC process was started by Congress in 1951 in Assam?" Madhav said at a debate show on News18 TV channel.

He said the people whose names are not in the list will be given a second chance and number of foreign tribunals will be increased.

On the impending general election, he said that the BJP is confident of winning "all six Northeast states" benefiting from "anti-Congress feeling".

"We are confident that we will form government in the all the Northeast states... We have also benefited from the anti-Congress feeling in the region. We would like to capture more and more seats in these states," he said.

The withdrawing of support from the PDP in Jammu and Kashmir, Madhav said, was caused because former Chief Minister of the state Mehbooba Mufti did not follow BJP's direction.

"If all the parties in J&K can come to an agreement, the elections can be held today. If all parties are ready, we will dissolve Vidhan Sabha. But Congress isn't ready at this moment. Congress does not wants to form a government in the state," he said.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Police arrested a computer science graduate for cheating 50 women of at least Rs 90 lakh after taking a cue from Bollywood movie 'Ladies vs Ricky Bahl' and another on master conman Charles Shobhraj.

Arrested on a victim's complaint, Tarun Poddar, 24, used to meet gullible women in five-star hotels, introducing himself as a well-known author on the social media or the operations head of a company, Deputy Commissioner of Police Vijay Kumar told IANS.

To impress his potential victims, Tarun allegedly showed them fake identity cards of reputed MNCs and posted fake pictures on his Facebook page and other social media platforms.

The officer said Tarun also travelled in high-end cars along with two bodyguards so as to impress the women. Posing as a writer, he showed the women a forged cover of a book to claim he was its real author.

The accused was impressed by the character of Charles Sobhraj in 'Main aur Charles' movie apart from 'Ladies vs Ricky Bahl' in which Ranveer Singh played conman Ricky who cheats women.

Tarun was arrested from his residence in west Delhi's Rani Bagh.

"A native of Darbhanga in Bihar, Tarun duped the complainant after meeting her in a cab pool ride. He convinced her that he had good contacts in high places and reputed schools in NCR-Delhi," he said.

"The complainant had sought Tarun's help for admission of a relative's child in a school, for which he demanded Rs 12 lakh. The woman paid him over Rs 8 lakh. He fooled her by sending emails in the name of the said school regarding confirmation of the admission."

The complainant found she had been cheated when she approached the school authorities. Tarun started avoiding taking her calls, following which she filed a police complaint on May 29, the DCP said.

During interrogation, Tarun claimed he had duped 50 women in Delhi and Jaipur through a similar modus operandi.

He had been arrested earlier by Rajasthan Police for cheating a woman, the DCP said.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Two persons have been arrested for running a racket promising government jobs, police said on Tuesday.

Ajeet Singh, 30, and Vimal Kumar, 29, were arrested on August 6 at Sansad Marg, for cheating more than 50 job aspirants from West Bengal and a few from northern states, said Additional Commissioner of Police, Crime Branch, Ajit Kumar Singla.

Police has recovered from their possession fake appointment letters of the Railways and Food Corporation of India, academic documents of many victims, a fake identity card of the Railway Union and a pen-drive containing the format of the appointment letters.
Kolkata, Aug 7 : BJP National Secretary Rahul Sinha on Tuesday called upon the Muslims in the country to support the draft NRC in Assam and said that Trinamool Congress' opposition was an "attempt to divert attention from its failures in West Bengal".

"I urge the Indian Muslims, especially those living in Bengal, to come forward and support the implementation of the NRC in this state as well. West Bengal is becoming a hub for infiltrators under the Trinamool Congress rule. There should be a clear demarcation between refugees and infiltrators," he said.

Echoing BJP National General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya's views, Sinha said that Hindus, Christians and Buddhists who arrived in India due to persecution in Bangladesh can be termed refugees while those illegally crossing borders for employment and other benefits are infiltrators.

"We have to stop this as infiltrators are taking up our jobs, food and employment," the BJP leader said.

Terming TMC rule in Bengal since 2011 as a "complete failure" the BJP leader said that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had changed her stand on illegal immigrants to divert people's attention from failures of her government as the 2019 general elections were nearing.

"Be it law and order, industry, employment generation or health, the Trinamool Congress government and the Chief Minister have been complete failures in Bengal," Sinha said.

The draft NRC in Assam was published on July 30 and excluded over 40 lakh people for allegedly failing to submit proper identification documents.
Kolkata, Aug 7 : The West Bengal CID on Tuesday arrested former West Midnapore district police chief Bharati Ghosh's husband M.A.V. Raju in an extortion case, after his anticipatory bail was rejected by the Calcutta High Court, a CID officer said.

The High Court had rejected Raju's bail plea in connection with the probe into a case of alleged extortion and illegal exchange of banned notes for gold in West Midnapore district's Daspur.

The Criminal Investigation Department had earlier arrested four police officers who had worked under Ghosh and the caretaker of an apartment in south Kolkata, suspected to be owned by her, in the case.

More than Rs 2.4 crore, important government documents and sealed liquor bottles were seized during raids at a number of flats in south Kolkata's Madurdaha.

A large amount of unaccounted cash was also seized from the houses of several police officers named in the FIR.

The CID raids started following a case of extortion and criminal conspiracy was lodged in Daspur on February 1 after gold trader Chandan Majhi complained against some police officers in the district thought to be close to Ghosh.

Ghosh, once a favourite of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, reportedly fell from grace and sought voluntary retirement after she was transferred as Commandant of West Bengal Armed Police's 3rd Battalion. Her application was accepted.

The CID issued arrest warrant against her on February 10 on the charges of extortion and criminal conspiracy and sent teams outside the state to look for her.
Vienna, Aug 7 : Spanish MotoGP rider Marc Marquez of Repsol Honda on Tuesday said that he would battle for pole position, ahead of an upcoming race in Austria.

The four-time MotoGP champion finished third at the most recent race in the Czech Republic, behind Ducati riders Andrea Dovizioso of Italy and Jorge Lorenzo of Spain, reports Efe.

"We will try to be fast from the start of the weekend and then fight up at the front," the 25-year-old said at a press conference in Vienna.

"Austria is another track where Dovizioso and Lorenzo are strong, but we were also strong there last year, so we'll see if it comes down to the last corner again!" he added.

Marquez also raised safety awareness, stating: "People sometimes forget how vital is to wear the proper gear and not drink before riding, and anytime possible I try and give my input about the importance of being fit and lucid before riding."

The race in Austria is set to take place at the Red Bull Ring from August 10-12.
Kolkata, Aug 7 : The progress in developing tourism infrastructure in West Bengal's coastal circuit has been sluggish in spite of receiving Central government's funds under the 'Swadesh Darshan' scheme, a senior official of Ministry of Tourism said on Tuesday.

"The Tourism Ministry sanctioned Rs 85.39 crore for West Bengal's coastal circuit including Digha, Mandarmani, Tajpiur, Frazerganj, Bakkhali, Shankarpur etc under the Swadesh Drashan scheme out of which Rs 42.69 crore has been already released.

"However, the progress of the developmental work in those areas has been relatively slow," J.P. Shaw, Regional Director (East), Ministry of Tourism, said on the sidelines of a seminar on 'Heritage and Weekend Tourism in Bengal', organised by the Bengal National Chamber of Commerce and Industry here.

Shaw said West Bengal is currently at fifth position in terms of foreign tourists' inflow and eighth in domestic tourists' visit in the country.

"In Bengal, better showcasing and marketing of the tourist destinations is necessary. Also more skilled man power and better infrastructure is needed to bring more tourists. Unless there are good roads, good connectivity and good accommodation, tourism will not flourish," he said.

The official said the Tourism Ministry has also provided funds under the Ministry of Tourism's 'Prasad' scheme for infrastructural development of Kolkata's Belua Maah, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda.

"The Centre has also sanctioned Rs 30.03 crore for Belur Math, out of which 23.90 crore has been released so far to build an extra jetty at Dakshineswar temple and Other amenities such as drinking water area, LED screen, garbage disposal area and to install adequate lights for the temple premises," he said.

Referring to the 'Prasad' scheme that provides money under the Centre's Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spirituality Augmentation Drive, the official said Tourism Ministry has not received any other proposals so far from the Bengal government, apart from the Belur Math.

"There are a number of religious places in Bengal like the Tantric town of Tarapith or the Taraknath Temple in Hoogly district's Tarakeswar would be considered. But so far we have not received any such proposals," Shaw noted.

Shaw said the Centre would also provide fresh funds for a new light and sound show in Kolkata's Victoria Memorial after it received the proposal from the state government.

The official said the Ministry has identified three properties from West Bengal including the Cooch Behar palace in Cooch Behar district, Hazarduari palace in Murshidabad district and chain of temples in Bankura district's Bishnupur under the Tourism Department's "Adopt a Heritage" project, that allows private and public sector corporations to adopt India's top heritage sites.
Kolkata, Aug 7 : A day after penning a poem to slam the draft NRC in Assam, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote two more poems on the cancellation of her proposed visits to China, Chicago in the US and St Stephen's College in Delhi.

Poem titled 'Untouchable' in English and 'Naam Nei' (Name not there) in Bengali were posted on the social media.

In 'Untouchable', she wrote: "Do you want to go to China? No comments please. Political diplomacy cancelled it."

The Chief Minister had cancelled her eight-day trip to China in June as the scheduled political meetings under the exchange programme between the two countries was not confirmed "at the appropriate level".

Banerjee also wrote: "Want to visit Chicago? To commemorate 125 years of Swami Vivekananda's address? Religious monopoly shut down the door. Accepted the invitation of St Stephen's College? Not allowed, friend."

The organisers of St Stephen's College event had withdrawn an invite to her.

Reiterating her criticism of the draft National Register of Citizens in Assam, the poem carrying her signature goes as: "Want to protest for Indian citizens in Assam? You are anti-national.

"Fortunately, you were born in West Bengal; otherwise you would have been called intruders."

on Monday, Banerjee's poem titled 'Identity' in both Bengali and English started with a series of questions on surname, religion, language, food habits and political preferences. Those who failed to come up with satisfactory answers would be termed "traitors," it warned.

Her Bengali poem 'Naam Nei' also expressed similar sentiments: "Where do you go? Go digital. ATM is marching ahead. Have your name in Aadhaar card. The country is going ahead, Rastriya Seba Sangh is moving ahead. Want bread, go to shopping mall, get it there."
Chennai, Aug 7 : A major controversy erupted on Tuesday night after the Tamil Nadu government declined DMK's request to allot space for burying the mortal remains of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi near party founder C.N. Annadurai's memorial at the Marina Beach.

The party filed an urgent petition before acting Chief Justice of Madras High Court Kuluvadi Ramesh to press for a burial place on the Marina.

DMK workers resorted to violence after news broke out that Chief Secretary Girija Vaidyanathan had declined the request due to legal issues.

The police had to use force to control the cadres even as Karunanidhi's body was shifted to his Gopalapuram residence.

According to Vaidyanathan, Chief Minister K. Palaniswami said two acres of land would be allotted for Karunanidhi's burial near Gandhi Mandapam on Sardar Patel Road which already houses memorials for K. Kamaraj and others.

Earlier, family members of Karunanidhi led by DMK working President M.K. Stalin and party officials met Palaniswami and sought space near Annadurai's memorial for burying Karunanidhi's body.

The government decision drew flak from opposition leaaders including MDMK's Vaiko, DMDK's Vijayakanth and PMK's S. Ramadoss, who favoured a memorial on the Marina Beach. Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad and the CPI(M) also joined the chorus.

Ramadoss urged the ruling party not to indulge in politics in this matter, saying the reason stated by the government is not acceptable.

Ramadoss said even when AIADMK leader J. Jayalalithaa was buried at the Marina Beach there were court cases pending. Her body was buried at the Marina Beach within the memorial of AIADMK founder M.G. Ramachandran.

He said Karunanidhi was the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu for 19 years and his last rites should be done in a decent manner.

The mortal remains of AIADMK founder M.G. Ramachandran and his successor Jayalalithaa are buried near Annadurai's memorial on the Marina Beach.

A five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi died after battling age-related ailments at Kauvery Hospital on Tuesday evening.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Former Prime Minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh expressed his condolence on the death of DMK President M. Karunanidhi and wrote to his son M.K Stalin saying that the country has lost a versatile genius.

"In his death our country has lost a versatile genius who was an outstanding artist, an eminent writer and a true leader who always stood for the cause of poor and downtrodden classes of the society," he said.

Singh also added that he was an exceptional public servant who was a very able administrator and served the nation and Tamil Nadu with "great distinction in diverse capacities".

"I respected Thiru. Karunanidhi deeply who had a special affection towards me and whenever I went to Chennai, I tried to find time to meet him personally there. His services to the nation will be remembered for many years to come," he added.

Senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala also expressed grief over Karunanidhi's demise saying that he was "repository of federalism in India".

"Karunanidhi was the harbinger of politics of deprived and politics of the poor in the state of Tamil Nadu. He represented scientific temper and creation of a casteless society. He led people of Tamil Nadu and shaped the destiny of the state," he said.

Karunanidhi, 94, passed away on Tuesday evening. He was admitted to the hospital on July 28 and his condition worsened on Monday.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : The CAG has picked several holes in the National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) saying lack of planning and funds management resulted in incomplete works for providing safe drinking water to rural habitations, schools and anganwadis.

In its audit report tabled in Parliament on Tuesday, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) said only 44 per cent of rural habitations, 85 per cent of schools and anganwadis were provided with access to safe drinking water during 2012-17 when the target was to achieve 100 per cent.

Similarly, only 18 per cent of rural population was provided with potable drinking water (55 litre per capita per day- lpcd) by piped water supply when the target was 50 per cent.

It said the coverage increased by only 8 per cent at 40 lpcd and 5.5 per cent at 55 lpcd during 2012-17 despite the expenditure of Rs 81,168 crore.

As the target was to provide water connections to 35 per cent of rural households, the Water Ministry could achieve just 17 per cent, says one of the highlights of the audit.

"Implementation of the scheme was marked by lack of proper planning and funds management and delivery as well as ineffective execution of works that resulted in undue delays and expenditure that failed to yield the expected results or benefits," reads the audit report.

"The total financial implication of the audit findings works out to Rs 2,875 crore, which was a very significant 15 per cent of the expenditure of Rs 19,151 crore."

The CAG attributed the programme's failure to achieve the targets partly to deficiencies in implementation such as incomplete, abandoned and non-operational works, unproductive expenditure on equipment, non-functional sustainability structures and gaps in contract management that had a total financial implication of Rs 2,212.44 crore.

It said Rs 8,788 crore out of available funds of Rs 89,956 crore (10 per cent) remained unutilised while Rs 359 crore diverted for ineligible purposes and Rs 304 crore blocked with State Water and Sanitation Mission and executing agencies.

NRDWP was launched in 2009 with the objective of providing adequate safe water for drinking, cooking and other domestic needs to every rural person on a sustainable basis.

The earmarked fund was Rs 89,956 crore (Central share Rs 43,691 crore and state share Rs 46,265 crore).

The CAG said the annual action plans of states lacked bottom-up approach and sustainability plans were either not prepared or not included.

"Operation and Maintenance plans were either not prepared in most of the states or had deficiencies leading to schemes becoming non-functional. As a result, incidence of slip-back habitations has persisted," it said.

It also said the social audit of the programme to measure beneficiary level satisfaction was not conducted.

"Hence the overall monitoring and oversight framework lacked effectiveness and there was inadequate community involvement in this exercise," it said.
Shillong, Aug 7 : Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday expressed his grief over the death of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M. Karunanidhi.

"Karunanidhi, the DMK patriarch, was one of India's longest serving politicians, and will be remembered for his contributions to the Tamil society and the country as a whole in terms of political movement, literature and theatre," Sangma said in his condolences message.

"Karunanidhi will be remembered by the people across the political spectrum for fighting for the rights of the State governments, state autonomy and federalism," the Chief Minister said.

Sangma added: "It was Karunanidhi who secured the right for the Chief Ministers to hoist the national flag on Independence Day."

A five-time Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Karunanidhi, 94, passed away at the Kauvery Hospital in Chennai on Tuesday evening.

He was admitted to the hospital on July 28.
New Delhi, Aug 7 : Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday expressed grief over the death of DMK leader M. Karunanidhi and said like former Chief Minister Jayalalitha, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people and deserves to be given space on Marina Beach.

He said India has lost a great son, who strode the stage of Tamil politics like a colossus for over six decades.

"Loved by the Tamilian people, Kalaignar strode the stage of Tamil politics, like a colossus, for over 6 decades. In his passing, India has lost a great son. My condolences to his family as also to the millions of Indians who grieve for their beloved leader tonight," Gandhi said in a tweet.

"Like Jayalalitha ji, Kalaignar was an expression of the voice of the Tamil people. That voice deserves to be given space on Marina Beach. I am sure the current leaders of Tamil Nadu will be magnanimous in this time of grief," he said.

Karunanidhi, 94, passed away on Tuesday evening. He was admitted to the hospital on July 28 and his condition worsened on Monday.
Ahmedabad, Aug 7 : A special CBI court on Tuesday turned down the discharge applications of two retired IPS officials D.G. Vanzara and N.K. Amin in the 2004 alleged fake encounter killings of Mumbai girl Ishrat Jahan and others.

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) judge J.K. Pandya had reserved the order and delivered it on Tuesday. The arguments from Vanzara and Amin in their discharge pleas had concluded on July 18.

While holding that the role of these two accused was greater than that of retired in-charge Director-General of Police P.P. Pandey, the CBI judge rejected the petition of the two senior police officials.

The court had earlier allowed the discharge petition of Pandey in the same case where the retired official had claimed that he was not on the spot of the crime. Vanzara and Amin had sought parity with Pandey's case and sought to be discharged.

"Once we have the official copy of the order, we can know the view of the court. The order may be of rejection but we have not read it. Pandey was discharged under Section 197. Principles of law suggest that if it has happened for one accused, then others should also be dealt at parity," said N.K. Amin to the media after the CBI court judgment.

After the CBI court ruling, Vanzara and Amin now remained accused in the case and face the trial.

The counsel for the former IPS officials in their arguments had maintained that both were framed in the encounter case by the CBI as they were not even present at the scene of crime. To buttress their claims, they cited the acceptance of discharge plea of the former Acting DGP by the same court.

Nineteen-year-old college girl Ishrat Jahan from Mumbra in Mumbai was gunned down by the Gujarat Police on the outskirts of Ahmedabad on 2004, with allegations that she and others were terrorists and had come to gun down then Chief Minister and now Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Shamima Kausar, the mother of Ishrat Jahan, had opposed the discharge applications. In her application she stated that her daughter was abducted, kept in illegal confinement and murdered in cold blood by the police officers and was "falsely projected as an encounter killing". Her advocate had also argued that the "accused cannot be discharged even before the supplementary chargesheet is placed before this court".

A supplementary chargesheet was pending with the special CBI court (magisterial) in the same case that names Intelligence Bureau officials, including former Special Director Rajinder Kumar.

Kauser, on her part, contended that there were eye-witnesses whose statements had been recorded under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code which established the role of the senior police officials in the case.

Amin said he would consider approaching a higher court, while Vanzara refused to comment, saying that the case was sub-judice.

The CBI judge announced further hearing in the case on September 7.
Chennai, Aug 7 : Petrol bunks in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will remain closed dawn to dusk on Wednesday as a mark of respect to DMK President M. Karunanidhi who breathed his last here on Tuesday, said an office-bearer of Tamil Nadu Petrol Dealers Association.

In a statement issued here, the association said as a mark of respect to Karunanidhi, all petrol bunks in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry will remain closed on Wednesday from 6 a.m to 6 p.m.
New Delhi, Aug 8 : The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Tuesday said it will submit a privilege notice in the Lok Sabha against Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh for what it called "misleading" Parliament on its demand for Delhi's full statehood.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Tuesday claimed that it had received no request from the city government to grant Delhi full statehood.

AAP chief spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj wrote in Twitter: "Our party's member of Parliament will give privilege notice to initiate contempt proceedings against the Minister for deceiving Parliament and Delhi people."

Earlier in the day, Congress party's Professor K.V. Thomas had asked in the Lok Sabha the Home Minister three questions. First, is there a demand for statehood to Delhi; second, if so, what is the policy of the Central government; and third, what is the time by which a decision may be taken.

To this, Bharadwaj had said that Rajnath Singh had "lied" because "they (BJP) have themselves been demanding full statehood for the last 70 years and now, even after they have a majority in the Lok Sabha, they are sitting over the matter".

Bharadwaj, who is MLA from Greater Kailash constituency of Delhi, said a special session of the Delhi Assembly had demanded full statehood. "The proposal was not a private Bill, it was the Delhi government's resolution."

"Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had made this proposal. The resolution was passed and sent to the Central government," he said.

He further said that on June 11, 2018, a letter about Delhi's full statehood was sent to the Union Home Ministry from the Delhi Assembly and copies of that letter were also marked to Lt. Governor Anil Baijal, Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

In this backdrop, it is clear that the reply given in the Lok Sabha amounted to "cheating the people of Delhi", he said.
Entrepreneur Martyn Barnes has signed an agreement with InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) to bring its new hotel brand, voco, to Victorias Yarra Valley.

The 170-room new-build hotel, to be known as voco Yarra Valley, will open in 2021 and marks the second signing for the brand in Australia.

The hotel will feature touches such as an on-site gin distillery, a lavender farm, mirrored maze, an amphitheatre cut from natural ground and a provedore.

The voco brand was launched by IHG in June of this year with the rebranding of the Gold Coasts Watermark Hotel & Spa.

Abhijay Sandilya, IHGs Senior Director of Development  Australasia, said the signing is a further step forward for the company which currently has 48 hotels operating under four brands in Australasia.

IHG launched voco in June with the first signing for the brand in Australia, and we are so pleased to see the brand momentum continue here with the second signing, Sandilya said.

voco delivers a guest experience that stands out, with touches of charm and memorable, distinctive and dependable hallmarks, so we cant think of a better partner for this new hotel than Martyn Barnes.

The signing of voco Yarra Valley continues IHGs ambition to take our brands into regional markets, including suburban micro-markets close to Australian capital cities.

The hotel will try and offer guests a different kind of experience, said Martyn Barnes, Managing Director at Barnes Capital.

As one of Australias premier wine regions, the last thing people want when they arrive in Yarra Valley is a vanilla experience, he said.

Thats why voco is the perfect fit, giving business and leisure guests a great, globally-branded, upscale hotel that guests can depend on, but thats different enough to be fun.

Im excited to work with IHG to open voco Yarra Valley, building on our partnership that will also see us opening Holiday Inn Melbourne Coburg in 2020.

Watch this space, because we have more to come.
The last winners of the Block series, model Elyse Knowles and her boyfriend Josh Barker, are taking their time on their latest renovation project.

They have spent $1.35 million on an 1880s Albert Park terrace (pictured above) - but have yet to lodge any development application on the home that had previously sold in 1978 for $34,000.

It is on the same block as where the 2014 series took place.

The couple were clear winners of last year's series in Elsternwick when selling the 1920s farmhouse for $3.07 million to the Melbourne comedian Dave Hughes. Winning them $547,000, it was the highest price ever seen on The Block since its 2003 inception at Bondi Beach.

Their own interrupted Coburg Californian bungalow transformation secured a windfall $1.63 million sale after paying $600,000 in 2014.

It was advertised as "the home of a master craftsman and an interior designer".

But Elyse's fashion modelling career is taking off as she makes her runway debut for Myer on August 23 in Sydney alongside Jennifer Hawkins and other Myer faces such as Rachael Finch, Kris Smith and former AFL player Josh Gibson.

This article first appeared in The Sunday Telegraph
We are very proud to offer these 30 outstanding nursing students the opportunity to become part of our professional community and gain a unique perspective on the benefits of working in the field of psychiatric-mental health care. Past News Releases RSS American Psychiatric Nurses...

American Psychiatric Nurses...

American Psychiatric Nurses...

The American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA) is pleased to announce the 30 talented nursing students selected to receive the 2018 Board of Directors Student Scholarship. The APNA student scholarship program seeks to encourage students to experience the rewarding field of psychiatric-mental health nursing and develop the next generation of leaders in the profession.

Each year, undergraduate/pre-licensure and graduate-level nursing students across the nation are invited to either apply for the scholarship or be nominated by a member of their nursing school faculty. Scholarship winners receive registration, travel and lodging to attend the APNA 32nd Annual Conference, October 24-27, 2018 in Columbus, Ohio, as well as a one-year complimentary APNA membership to enjoy its professional benefits.

We are very proud to offer these 30 outstanding nursing students the opportunity to become part of our professional community and gain a unique perspective on the benefits of working in the field of psychiatric-mental health care, says APNA President Linda Beeber, PhD, PMHCNS-BC, FAAN. The Board of Directors Student Scholarship provides nursing students with extensive professional connections and support that helps them move forward in their careers. In fact, 85 percent of past recipients report that their APNA scholarship experience directly influenced their decision in choosing psychiatric-mental health nursing or affirming that this was the right field of study for them.

The 2018 scholarship recipients are:

Undergraduate/Pre-Licensure

Melissa R. Baranowski  St. Vincent's College

Breighanna Carey  Elmhurst College

Haylea Copas  East Tennessee State University

Elizabeth Geiger  Saint Louis University

Ingrid Hausner  Neumann University

Stanton Alexander Hugger  Sinclair Community College (Nursing NUR.S.AAS)

Felicia Hwung  Saddleback College

Emily Quinn Jimenez  University of the Incarnate Word

Lisa Kehr  The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing

Amy Luncan  Miami University

Brittany Nicole Miller  Malone University

Sarret Seng  University of Kentucky College of Nursing

Megan Steinmetz  The University of Scranton

Paige Stodtmeister  Brigham Young University

Christopher Thai  Temple University

Graduate

Hamzah Alghzawi  University of Maryland at Baltimore

Sarah P. Cox  Vanderbilt University

Brooke Ann Finley  The University of Arizona College of Nursing

Jessica L. Fowler  University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Emily J Friedman  Yale School of Nursing

Daemon Alexander KaO'o Garso  University of Utah

Yovan Gonzalez  Johns Hopkins School of Nursing

Lori A Hart  University of Kansas - KU School of Nursing

Muriel Hollandsworth  University of Virginia School of Nursing

Larisa R King  East Carolina University

Erica S. Mann  East Tennessee State University

Christina Maroone  New York University

Jennifer McCarthy  University of Nevada, Reno

Laurel J Mullally  California State University, Long Beach

Valerie Seney  Endicott College

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The American Psychiatric Nurses Association is a national professional membership organization committed to the specialty practice of psychiatric-mental health nursing and wellness promotion, prevention of mental health problems and the care and treatment of persons with psychiatric disorders. APNAs membership is inclusive of all psychiatric-mental health registered nurses including associate degree, baccalaureate, advanced practice (comprised of clinical nurse specialists and psychiatric nurse practitioners), and nurse scientists and academicians (PhD). APNA serves as a resource for psychiatric-mental health nurses to engage in networking, education, and the dissemination of research.

The American Psychiatric Nurses Association is accredited with distinction as a provider of continuing nursing education by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.
Aprio Expands Presence in Alabama Market with Shirley

Aprio, LLP, a full service, CPA-led business advisory firm, is pleased to announce that Rob Shirley has joined the firm as Partner. Shirley will be located in Aprios Birmingham office and in his role will be responsible for expanding Aprios presence in the Alabama market.

We are very excited to have Rob join our team, his extensive experience serving as a trusted business advisor to clients across a variety of industries will elevate our presence in the area and allow Aprio to bring our full suite of services to businesses in Alabama, said Richard Kopelman, CEO and managing partner at Aprio. Rob has a long history of providing clients with a high level of client service and delivering results which makes him a strong cultural fit for the firm and reinforces our commitment to the Aprio Way.

Shirley has more than 25 years of experience in both public and private accounting, including six years with a top national accounting firm. He has assisted clients with growing their businesses, including through merger and acquisition, securing debt and managing risks. He has a unique perspective when serving clients because he has also worked as a financial leader for a national wholesale life insurance distribution company and a regional securities firm. Robs expertise extends to construction, manufacturing, retail, not-for-profit organizations and healthcare.

The foundation of our business is the strength of our people and were fortunate to have Rob join our firm, said Frank Gudger, partner-in-charge of Assurance Services at Aprio. I look forward to growth in the Alabama business market and continuing our dedication to excellent client service.

It is a privilege to come to such a growth-oriented firm as Aprio, said Shirley. Im excited to grow our presence in the Alabama market and help businesses navigate to their next.

For more information about Aprio, visit https://www.aprio.com.

About Aprio

Aprio is a premier full-service, CPA-led business advisory firm based in Atlanta, Georgia, that advises clients and associates on how to achieve whats next. Aprios associates work as integrated teams across advisory, assurance, tax and private client services, bringing the best thinking and personal commitment to each client. Across practices, Aprio brings together proven expertise, deep understanding and strategic foresight for industries including Manufacturing and Distribution; Non-Profit and Education; Professional Services; Real Estate and Construction; Retail, Franchise and Hospitality; and Technology and Biosciences. In 65 years, Aprio has grown to 400 employees. To serve clients wherever life or business may take them, Aprios teams speak more than 30 languages and work with clients in over 40 countries. In addition to its Atlanta headquarters, Aprio also operates in New York; Birmingham, Ala.; and Sarasota, Fla. For more, visit https://www.aprio.com.
There is also no one in the market able to pre-calculate the shift factors as accurate as we do. Its the hardest and most complex thing to do when trying to simulate the market," said Matthew Boyda, Nodal Analytics Manager.

This summer the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) power grid broke demand records as summer temperatures hit historic highs sending wholesale electric prices soaring and causing unpredictable market conditions. While methods for predicting the implications of this kind of demand surge are historically challenging and models simulating the electricity grid typically take a long time to run, Genscape power analysts were able to forecast power infrastructure impacts through the use of their Nodal Market Insights (NMI) tool. Using a unique methodology and proprietary algorithms, Genscapes NMI tool accurately predicted 73% of real-time grid congestion events from June 15-July 24, an impressive statistic demonstrating new innovation in congestion forecasting and power trading analytics.

By design, the NMI product predicts what will happen tomorrow by understanding what happened yesterday. To get to this conclusion, analysts and traders can use the NMI platform to run models for the future and compare them to past models run for a historic day, a unique analysis methodology proprietary to Genscape. Through use of cloud computing power and parallelization, a system where software processes data in parallel, customers can run these models 85% faster than possible just several years ago, taking a process that once took many hours and condensing it to minutes. Users have access to the most accurate real-time representation of the power grid, which allows them to actually make decisions using NMI-supplied information, turning static data into actionable data. The products performance is unmatched and shows consistent accuracy over time, making its real-world functionality particularly exciting for Genscape and potential users.

Beyond just accurately predicting real-time congestion the day before that forecast actually happens, NMI forecasts how power flows on the grid, or the shift factors, with unprecedented accuracy, greater than 99% some days. NMIs results are highly significant since the ERCOT market is the most volatile its ever been, said Matthew Boyda, Nodal Analytics Manager. There is also no one in the market able to pre-calculate the shift factors as accurate as we do. Its the hardest and most complex thing to do when trying to simulate the market. Our growing customer base is clearly getting a competitive advantage by capitalizing on the capability weve built.

While NMI is currently only available in the ERCOT and Pennsylvania, Jersey, Maryland Power Pool (PJM) markets, Genscape plans to launch in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) and Southwest Power Pool (SPP) markets by the end of this year.

About Genscape

Founded in 1999, Genscape is the leading global provider of near-real-time data and intelligence for commodity and energy markets, driven to improve market transparency and efficiency.

Today, Genscape operates the worlds largest private network of in-the-field monitors, and added satellite reconnaissance, artificial intelligence, and maritime freight tracking to its data acquisition capabilities. Genscape delivers its unique brand of unsurpassed market intelligence across the commodity and energy spectrum including power, oil, natural gas, petrochemical and natural gas liquids, agriculture, biofuels, and maritime freight.
In The Palm of My Hand: the true story of a young refugee and her struggle to escape war-ravished Poland with her family. In The Palm of My Hand is the creation of published author, David P. Pucci. David has held a variety of managerial positions in the gas and chemical industry. David is a 1991 graduate of the Pennsylvania State University of State College, PA. He has a B.S. in economics. An avid student of history, David has participated in reenactments of the American Civil War. He is also a founding member of the WWII Re-enacting group, the 9th Infantry Division WWII Historical Preservation Society. He resides in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Northeast, Pennsylvania.

Through the dust from a charging horses and rider, Jenny on the verge of womanhood encounters a young dashing sergeant serving in the collapsing and deserting Russian army. Dominic offers them most of his food and then dashes quickly away to try to immigrate to America. With rumors of revolution and the imprisonment of the czar, he decides to flee to America. --David P. Pucci

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, David P. Puccis new book is the story of a Polish family that loses it all in the Great War.

Jenny, her mother, and younger brother trudged wearily through the steppes of Poland. They pushed forward to escape the hell of a world at war and the Russian Revolution. It was a struggle where the victories were small and tragedy great. It was a struggle that showed what a mother would sacrifice simply to obtain enough food for her children and the harsh reality of that sacrifice. It is the true story of author David P. Puccis grandmother and her journey to America in the face of the Great War and the birth of the Bolshevik Revolution.

Jenny was born into a wealthy family in Russia-controlled Poland. Her maternal grandfather was a violinist and played for the czar. Her paternal grandfather was a wealthy builder in Poland. As a child, she lived without want or hunger. Her father was a hero of the 1904 Russo-Japanese War and he chose to go to America as the ambassador for Imperial Russia. In America at the onset of WWI, Jennys father tried to do everything he could to get his family out of a war-ravished continent, but his family would have to trudge through Poland to get to the Baltic Sea in order to gain their berth on a ship headed to America.

View a synopsis of In The Palm of My Hand  on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase In The Palm of My Hand  at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about In The Palm of My Hand , contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.
Beef Jerky Outlet is hosting its first-ever, $5000 Back to School Giveaway, benefitting the school of the winners choice. The contest opened on August 1 and will run through September 15. To enter, participants must be 18 years or older and visit BeefJerkyOutlet.com/win to submit a simple form.

We are ecstatic to have the opportunity to give back to our schools, says Jenn Szlachta, Director of Marketing of Beef Jerky Outlet. We believe it is very important to support our nations educators. We want to provide schools with monetary assistance to support programs at a local level. This is our first year hosting our Back to School Giveaway, and we hope to see many people register to win for their local school.

In addition to the Back to School Giveaway, local Beef Jerky Outlet stores across the country are launching individual fundraising programs to further give back to their communities. At participating Beef Jerky Outlet locations, students can sign up to sell beef jerky as a way to raise money for their school or club. Jenn said, We have heard from many of our store partners that their friends and family were tired of the same old fund raiser products and they requested we create a Beef Jerky Outlet version of fundraising. We have included our besting selling jerky flavors, along with summer sausages and meat sticks. Its easy to participate and we are already seeing a terrific response from our schools. Between 30 and 50 percent of profits go directly back to the school, depending on products are sold. For more information, visit https://www.beefjerkyoutlet.com/fundraising.

Beef Jerky Outlet is home to more than 100 varieties of premium jerky, including classic flavors like Prime Rib, Cherry Maple and Teriyaki. For the more adventurous snackers, Beef Jerky Outlet also offers exotic treats like alligator, venison and kangaroo jerkies and bug-laden lollipops. To find a location near you, visit BeefJerkyOutlet.com.

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About the Beef Jerky Outlet

The Beef Jerky Outlet was founded in 2010 and is the countrys first national jerky franchise. The company is headquartered in Kodak, Tennessee and there are currently more than 100 franchise locations, including 6 founder-owned stores, with many additional stores planned. The Beef Jerky Outlet specializes in more than 100 varieties of premium jerky including exotic meats like kangaroo, alligator, venison and elk, as well as specialty flavors such as Moonshine and Cajun. Jerky is lean, high in protein, low in calories, contains less than 3% fat and has an extremely long shelf life. Millions seek out and enjoy this very nutritious snack every day. Across the country people are literally eating it up!
Braun Ambulances will be attending IAFC's FRI 2018 with four units on display throughout the event. Were proud to be displaying four of our amazing ambulance units at FRI! Were especially proud to be able to showcase Rogers Fire Departments unit, since their Chief Tom Jenkins is currently President of the IAFC.

Braun Ambulances is honored to announce their attendance at FRI 2018. The event will take place August 8th-10th at Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas. Braun Ambulances will have four units on display at the conference and expo, including three Chief XL models and one Liberty model.

Fire Rescue International (FRI) is the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) annual event; the conference and exposition take place every summer and provide education on various topics for fire and emergency leaders. FRI covers topics like administration and human relations, community risk reduction, EMS, operations, and technological advances as they relate to the world of fire and EMS. The annual conference and expo has provided leadership training to fire chiefs for 140 years, and this year is no different. In 2018, FRI will include symposiums on Bullying, Harassment, and Workplace Violence Prevention and IAFC/OSU Research, as well as an International Reception and a Big Bang Reception. In addition, there will be over 440 exhibitors in the exhibition hall.

Braun Industries will be in booth #4134 with three of their ambulances, and one will be on display in the Ford booth. A 2018 Chief XL F450 4x4 Type 1 Braun Demo will be on display in Fords booth, featuring LiquidSpring front and rear suspension,MasterTech FleetConnect, and a custom front wall with tip-out oxygen storage. In Brauns booth, they will be showcasing a Chief XL Pinnacle Demo, a Liberty F450 4x4 from Rogers Fire Department, and a Chief XL from Montgomery Fire Department. The Pinnacle demo features LiquidSpring rear suspension, Dual Vista screens, Techniq underbody lights, and motion sensors for interior equipment. The Liberty F450 from Rogers Fire Department in Rogers, Arkansas features Whelen M9 lighting, Whelen TAL85 traffic advisor, EVS seating with Mobility 1 track, and Turtle Tile in outside compartments. The Chief XL from Montgomery Fire Department in Montgomery, Alabama features Buell Airhorns, Hanscom Side View cameras, Ridgeback OSS compartment strip lights, and Stryker Performance Load. Chad Brown, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, and regional sales managers Jason Adair, Jarrett Hammons, and Jason Gerhardt will be in attendance on behalf of Braun Ambulances. Rob Cartee, Jeff Kuntz, and Brian Lee from Emergency Equipment Professionals, and Robby Fore from Spartan Fire will also be in attendance.

Chad Brown, VP of Sales and Marketing for Braun, says, Were proud to be displaying four of our amazing ambulance units at FRI! Were especially proud to be able to showcase Rogers Fire Departments unit, since their Chief Tom Jenkins is currently President of the IAFC. Its an honor to display his, and our other units, here this year. Were looking forward to seeing our new partner, Demers Ambulances at FRI, as well as seeing our existing customers and dealers, and taking the opportunity to meet with new potential customers, too. Were honored to be able to display a number of our new features, including MasterTech FleetConnect. Chad, as well as his team of regional sales managers and some of their dealer partners, will be available to answer questions and give attendees a tour of their vehicles in their booth, #4134, throughout the course of the event. Exhibit hall hours are Thursday, August 9th from 4 PM  7 PM; Friday, August 10th from 10 AM  5 PM, and Saturday, August 11th from 10 AM  1 PM.

If you have any questions regarding the event or the units that will be on display at FRI 2018, please call Chad Brown at 419-232-7054 or email ChadB@BraunAmbulances.com.

About Braun Industries and Demers Ambulances:

Braun Industries and Demers Ambulances merged in 2018 creating the second largest ambulance manufacturing organization in North America. Recognized for leadership in innovative design, quality product, and for their over 100-years of rich history serving the emergency response market in over 20 countries worldwide. Demers and Braun offer ambulance models ranging from the price-conscience value ambulance to the very highly-customized speciality vehicle. To learn more about how Demers Ambulances and Braun Industries can help you save more lives, visit http://www.Demers-Ambulances.com and http://www.BraunAmbulances.com.
Eric Lane, RVP of the Pacific Region I cant wait to start working with my team in the Pacific region and building upon Calipers established success throughout the country.

Caliper announced today that Eric Lane joined Caliper as its Regional Vice President of the Pacific region, covering Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Idaho, Utah, and Arizona. His extensive experience with business development and talent management solutions makes Eric fully equipped to lead Calipers account team in the Pacific area.

In his role as Regional Vice President of the Pacific region, Eric will oversee an account team and work with them to strategically position Caliper as the assessment company of choice to clients.

"I cant wait to start working with my team in the Pacific region and building upon Calipers established success throughout the country," said Eric Lane. Calipers world-class science, technology, and expertise are perfectly suited to help our customers achieve their talent management business objectives.

Prior to joining Caliper as Regional Vice President, Eric held a variety of senior management roles at Pearson.

"We've been busy this year expanding our sales capabilities, and Eric is another excellent addition to lead this world-class team," said Caliper's Chief Revenue Officer, John Maketa. "The creation of this new role highlights our commitment to providing the best service to our customers during this time of growth and expansion."

Eric joins other external and internal promotions to Regional Vice President across the country as Caliper grows and expands its focus on customers to meet their needs with local representation.

ABOUT CALIPER

Caliper is a human capital analytics company leveraging decades of data and validated assessment results to predict and select high-quality candidates. Caliper partners with all types of organizations, industries, and sectors  from Fortune 500 companies to small businesses and from government agencies to non-profits. Caliper is uniquely positioned to help companies select and develop their next generation of emerging leaders. Whether your business needs to hire for an important position, reduce turnover, improve team effectiveness, or develop current and future leaders, Caliper can help you make the best talent management decisions.
This pilot exemplifies how the use of technology can impact health care delivery and revolutionize the way we care for our patients.

Catholic Health Home and Community Based Care has partnered with Health Recovery Solutions (HRS) for a Palliative Care Telemonitoring Pilot. The pilot is a joint initiative with Catholic Healths community partner, Hospice Buffalo, which was established to reduce avoidable emergency department (ED) visits and hospital readmissions. Patients with chronic diseases who require palliative care interventions are eligible to participate in the pilot.

The Palliative Care Telemonitoring Pilot is in the unique position of having been chosen to receive Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment (DSRIP) funding from New York State for one year. Catholic Health plans to aggregate the data from the pilot program in order to build an evidenced based case supporting insurance reimbursement for telemonitoring and virtual visit engagement. Since the programs inception in April 2018, there have been no recorded hospital admissions among participants.

The patients placed on Catholic Healths palliative care telemonitoring program are provided with 4G tablets loaded with the HRS software. The tablets are paired with Bluetooth devices, which allow patients to take their blood pressure, weight, heart rate, and pulse oximetry readings. The software gives clinicians the ability to monitor patient vitals, respond to risk alerts, and conduct nursing visits through video, phone, and text chat all in real time.

Catholic Health is particularly excited about the ability to conduct video visits with patients. Videoconferencing allows the clinicians at Catholic Health to increase touch points with patients, while simultaneously decreasing clinician travel time. Catholic Health reports that their patients are equally excited about this unique care delivery model.

Kimberly Peters, Vice President of Operations for Niagara County, states, Our Palliative/Telemonitoring pilot represents an enhanced care delivery model that allows us to reach more patients, while demonstrating a significant reduction in avoidable ER visits and hospital readmissions. This pilot exemplifies how the use of technology can impact health care delivery and revolutionize the way we care for our patients.

Carolina Rayzel, Client Success and Operations Manager at HRS, adds The palliative care telemonitoring pilot at Catholic Health is a truly innovative program that will change the standard of care for this patient population. We are grateful to be Catholic Healths partner for this important initiative.

About Catholic Health Home and Community Based Care

Our Mission: We are called to reveal the healing love of Jesus to those in need.

Our Vision: Inspired by faith and committed to excellence, we will lead the transformation of healthcare in our communities.

To learn more about Catholic Health, visit http://www.chsbuffalo.org. For more information about Catholic Healths Home and Community Based Care services, please call 716.685.4870.

About Health Recovery Solutions (HRS)

Health Recovery Solutions (HRS) supplies leading home care agencies with the most advanced remote monitoring platform focused on changing patient behavior to reduce readmissions and improve clinical outcomes. HRS disease-specific engagement kits are customized with educational video, care plans, medication reminders while integrated with Bluetooth peripherals to engage patients. For clinicians, HRS' software allows for the management of high-risk patients and provides seamless communication with them through video chat, wound imaging and text messaging. For family members and caregivers, HRS' software gives them the ability to be fully involved in their family member's care and well-being. To learn more about Health Recovery Solutions, visit http://www.healthrecoverysolutions.com or call 347.699.6477.
CSU-Global is a fully online public university built to serve modern learners CSU-Global furthers its ability to provide students career-relevant educational opportunities with a quantifiable return on education. Students are able to learn software used in the field today and are also now able to demonstrate their excellence in these technologies to future employers.

Students at Colorado State University-Global Campus (CSU-Global) can earn a powerful joint certificate, verifying their skills in the high-demand field of data analytics. CSU-Global and SAS are collaborating on the Applied Data Analytics certificate, which will be available to students who complete a series of four graduate-level data analytics courses.

SAS skills can open many doors in the workforce, said Jerry Oglesby, senior director, Global Academic Programs, SAS Education. The CSU-Global Applied Data Analytics certificate sends a strong signal to employers that the holder can use data to transform an organization.

SAS customers span more than 83,000 business, government and university sites, including 96 of the top 100 companies on the 2017 Fortune Global 500. With a market that deep, a SAS certificate can foster many opportunities across industries.

Through this partnership, CSU-Global furthers its ability to provide students career-relevant educational opportunities with a quantifiable return on education. Not only are students able to learn software that is used in the field today, but by earning this joint certificate, they are also now able to demonstrate their excellence in these technologies to future employers.

Students are eligible to earn this joint certificate after completing the following four graduate

courses at CSU-Global: Foundations of Data Analytics (MIS500), Data Mining and Visualization (MIS510), Predictive Analytics (MIS530), and Introduction to Business Intelligence (MIS540). These courses are all included in the universitys online Master of Science in Data Analytics, allowing students to earn an industry-recognized certificate, while still working toward their masters degree, that will open up future career advancement opportunities in the high-demand area of data analytics and business intelligence.

The SAS Joint Certificate Program and credential in Applied Data Analytics recognize the demonstration of the core analytics knowledge and technological skills that our courses provide to students, said Dr. Lisa Bryan, CSU-Globals Data Analytics program chair. Students, by earning this industry-recognized certificate, will show potential employers that their knowledge of analytics goes well beyond theory to application. The certificate recognizes their knowledge of the application of SAS, R, Python, Tableau, and other analytic tools.

The SAS Joint Certificate program was created to help meet todays growing demand for data analytics professionals. The courses required to become certified have been reviewed and approved by SAS. Visit CSUGlobal.edu/MSDA or call 800-920-6723 to learn more about CSU-Globals Master of Data Analytics program.

About Colorado State University-Global Campus

Colorado State University-Global Campus (CSU-Global) offers career-relevant bachelors and masters degree programs for working adults and nontraditional learners. As the first and only 100% online, fully accredited public university in the United States, CSU-Global is focused on student success as its number one priority. Embracing the land-grant heritage as part of the Colorado State University System, CSU-Global sets the standard for quality and innovation in higher education through its expert faculty, who are recognized as industry leaders and trained in working with adults in an online learning environment. CSU-Global offers a streamlined enrollment process with accelerated eight-week courses that start every four weeks. Visit CSUGlobal.edu or call 1-800-920-6723 for more information.
During the financial year that closed in June 2018, Cyara added several seven-figure annual contracts to its customer roster. With customer expectations ever increasing, brands must differentiate themselves through great customer experiences. Cyara continues to lead the industry in CX assurance innovation.

Cyara, provider of the leading customer experience (CX) assurance platform, closed its 2018 fiscal year ending June 30 with 73-percent growth in new SaaS bookings and customer retention exceeding 97 percent. The continued growth in sales revenues was fueled by both new contracts and renewals with brands that include 1300 FLOWERS, [24]7.ai, GoDaddy, HomeServe, and Nelnet.

With customer expectations ever increasing, brands are differentiating themselves with great customer experiences, said Alok Kulkarni, CEO and co-founder of Cyara. We are partnering with many CX leaders across industries who are looking to drive digital transformation, adopt Agile and DevOps methodologies, and implement automation technology to help them win in this Experience Economy.

FY2018 Highlights

Customer wins

During the financial year that closed in June 2018, Cyara added several seven-figure annual contracts to its customer roster. Increased customer demand has been driven by growth in the technology, travel, and retail sectors, as well as a continued strength in the financial services, telecom, and insurance markets.

CX deployment trends

The mega trends of digital transformation and lean practices have motivated enterprises to apply successful Agile and DevOps methodologies to the front-line of customer service, where Cyaras automated testing platform supports these initiatives. At the same time, Cyaras SaaS business eclipsed on-premise installations as customers opted for the flexibility and cost savings of cloud technologies.

Platform statistics

As top brands automate the CX design and testing process to implement real-time detection of CX issues, usage of Cyaras platform rose dramatically: Cyara generated 3.5 billion seconds of synthetic traffic via its cloud platform over the course of the year. Cyara experienced increased demand from APAC-based call centers, and from customers requiring high-volume load testing as high as 20,000 concurrent calls.

Product updates

Over the course of the year, Cyara made significant updates to its product portfolio and launched Cyara Velocity, which was built to accelerate development and enable adoption of DevOps methodologies. Recent enhancements focused on expanded monitoring and incident management via dashboards that highlight quality issues in both voice and digital channels, along with automated troubleshooting. Cyara also expanded in-country dialing to include more than 65 countries, enhanced call and voice-quality testing capabilities, and added broader language support for transcription services used in its IVR Discovery and Expect-to-Hear fields.

Cyara Xchange

The company hosted its inaugural conference, where CX leaders from companies such as Macys, Anthem, eBay, Capital Group, Genesys, and Airbnb convened to discuss trends in CX testing and development. Sessions covered Agile and DevOps transformation, effective test strategies, and CX innovation strategies.

Channel partners

Cyara signed agreements with new channel partners including Servion, DecisivEdge, High Availability, ContactScope, City Communications, and AGC Networks (North America); Exceed Global (Australia/New Zealand); and infinIT.cx GmbH (EMEA).

Industry recognition

Cyara received the 2018 CUSTOMER Magazine Product of the Year Award, the Red Herring 100 Global Award, and the Frost & Sullivan Excellence Award.

Cyara anticipates continued growth in the upcoming fiscal year, with plans to grow headcount by approximately 20 percent across technical, sales, and marketing roles globally; product enhancements to advance CX innovation across all channels; and a focus on identifying high-impact business CX issues. To learn more about job openings at Cyara, visit our careers page.

The Cyara CX Assurance Platform

The award-winning Cyara CX Assurance Platform helps companies accelerate CX development, increase quality across all digital and voice channels, and assure the quality of customer journeys end-to-end. Cyara Velocitys automation and collaborative environment helps organizations rapidly innovate their CX. Cyara Cruncher then puts CX systems through extensive performance and load-testing, ensuring systems work at scale. Finally, Cyara Pulse delivers real-time CX insights via desktop or mobile phone, enabling customers to identify any issues and troubleshoot problems. Cyaras customers include leading brands across a variety of consumer and business segments including technology, insurance, finance, travel, and retail.

About Cyara

As the worlds leading CX Assurance platform provider, Cyara accelerates the delivery of flawless customer journeys across digital and voice channels while reducing the risk of customer-facing defects. Every day, the most recognizable brands in the world trust the Cyara Platform to deliver customer smiles at scale. For more information, please visit http://www.cyara.com.
The confidence Temasek has shown in our business model and development portfolio is a firm endorsement of our strategy, which we look forward to refining and executing on in tandem in the years to come.

Cypress Creek Renewables (Cypress), a leading developer and owner of solar generating assets, today announced that a group led by Temasek, a global investment company headquartered in Singapore, has agreed to purchase preferred equity interests in Cypress.

The $200 million investment represents the purchase by the group of preferred stock and warrants to purchase up to an aggregate 10 percent stake of the common stock. Proceeds will support the Companys continued growth through creation, investment, maturation and monetization of its development portfolio. Cypress will continue to operate under its existing management and add two independent directors to its Board.

Temasek has shown itself to be a patient, forward-looking partner focused on generating sustainable long-term returns  and it is this shared vision that makes expansion of our relationship quite natural, said Cypress CEO Matt McGovern. The confidence Temasek has shown in our business model and development portfolio is a firm endorsement of our strategy, which we look forward to refining and executing on in tandem in the years to come.

Our strategy focuses on creating markets, originating projects and allocating capital to the most attractive risk-adjusted opportunities, with success being driven by our ability to navigate development, structural and financial complexities as well as assessing and pricing risk, commented Brad Bauer, Cypress Chief Capital Markets Officer.

Founded in 2014 by Ben Van de Bunt (Chairman), Michael Cohen (President), and Matt McGovern (CEO), Cypress has grown into a leading developer, investor and operator of solar generating assets in regulated and deregulated markets. By the end of 2018 the Company will have developed and placed-in-service over 3.2 GW of projects and own 1.7 GW on-balance sheet.

About Cypress Creek Renewables:

Cypress Creek Renewables is a developer and owner of solar generating assets. We originate, develop and build projects in targeted markets across the United States and create value by selling electricity and solar generating assets. Cypress is a recognized industry leader in this regard, and by the end of 2018 will have developed and placed-in-service over 3.2GW of solar generating assets. For more information about Cypress Creek Renewables, visit https://ccrenew.com/.

About Temasek:

Incorporated in 1974, Temasek is a global investment company headquartered in Singapore. Supported by its network of international offices, Temasek owns a US$235b portfolio as at 31 March 2018, with significant exposure to Singapore and the rest of Asia. Our investment activities are guided by four investment themes and the long-term trends they represent: Transforming Economies; Growing Middle Income Populations; Deepening Comparative Advantages; and Emerging Champions. Our investment strategy allows us to capture opportunities across the sectors in which we invest that help bring about a better, smarter and more connected world. We actively seek sustainable solutions to address present and future challenges. Across the three pillars of the Temasek Charter, we recognize the need to do well as an investor; to do right as an institution; and to do good as a steward. For more information on Temasek, please visit http://www.temasek.com.sg.
Photo: Google Maps

Castanet is receiving reports of a vehicle collision on Highway 97 in Lake Country.

According to reports the incident occurred at about 12 p.m. on Sunday in front of The Jammery and emergency crews are now on scene.

A small SUV is believed to have flipped onto its roof, according to a witness.

The southbound lanes are extremely backed up all the way to Beaver Lake Road.
DiA Imaging Analysis, an artificial intelligence medical imaging analysis startup, today announced that the company has closed a $5 million funding round led by Connecticut Innovations with participation from Defta Healthcare, existing investors and a government grant from the Israel Innovation Authority.

DiA plans to use the new capital to continue penetrating the market with its FDA/CE-approved automated tools while at the same time expanding its portfolio and building support teams for its activities in the United States, Europe and Asia.

DiAs automated AI and imaging analysis technology delivers accurate and reproducible imaging analysis of ultrasound images. The companys tools utilize advanced, proprietary pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms that can improve monitoring of patient conditions, offering physicians easy-to-use tools to support their decisions and improve patient outcomes.

DiA is collaborating with market leaders including GE Healthcare, Neusoft Medical System, Google Cloud and others to implement its FDA/CE-approved automated tools within ultrasound devices, healthcare IT systems and cloud platforms. The company has reference cites in leading US medical centers, including Yale, Mount Sinai, RUSH, USF and UCSD. DiAs Scientific Advisory Board is supported by world-leading physicians specializing in cardiology and primary care ultrasound.

The medical imaging analysis market is expanding rapidly, while the need for automation is increasing, said DiA co-founder and CEO Hila Goldman Aslan. DiAs innovative technology and market traction will continue bringing cutting-edge solutions to the market to improve patient care. I welcome our new investors and thank them, along with our existing investors, for their support in our vision to lead the ultrasound imaging analysis market.

The team at DiA Imaging Analysis continues to make great strides in bringing to market their groundbreaking ultrasound analysis technology, powered by artificial intelligence, that improves patient care, said Peter Longo, Senior Managing Director for Investments at Connecticut Innovations. We are excited about their prospects for success as we continue to support their commercialization activities.

About DiA Imaging Analysis

DiA Imaging Analysis Ltd. is a medical imaging analysis software company providing fully automated, implementable tools that enable quick, objective and accurate ultrasound analysis, with the first product line in echocardiography. The companys FDA- and CE-cleared cognitive image processing tools are based on advanced pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms that automatically imitate the way the human eye identifies borders and motion, producing accurate and reliable data for the use of physicians. Headquartered in Israel, the company was founded by Hila Goldman Aslan (CEO), Michal Yaacobi (VP R&D) and Arnon Toussia-Cohen (VP BD).

For additional information, please visit http://www.dia-analysis.com.
Dude Solutions SmartGov allows us to not only help government agencies drive meaningful business outcomes, but serve as a trusted partner for operations management, asset management and community development initiatives alike.

Dude Solutions, the leading software-as-a-service (SaaS) provider of operations management solutions, today adds SmartGov to the companys new suite of community development software. SmartGov eliminates delayed or missed development opportunities by tracking and managing all tasks associated with permit processing, business licensing, code enforcement and recurring inspections in an automated, web-based application.

Equipped with paperless processes, SmartGov allows government agencies to capitalize on revenue opportunities tied to new business projects within their communities much sooner than expected. Seamless integration with a public portal offers improved transparency and engagement while allowing citizens to get online instead of standing in line.

The City of Maricopa, Arizona streamlined their permitting process with SmartGov, which incentivized businesses looking to expand or develop in their community. Our goal is to be the most transparent city in the world, said Robert Mathias, Development Manager for the City of Maricopa. SmartGov is a huge step toward that goal.

In addition to supporting revenue-generating functions and timely responses to development opportunities, SmartGov dramatically reduces time, cost and error, as well as dependence on paper-based and manual processes. SmartGov also offers comprehensive APIs that integrate with both GIS systems and operations and asset management platforms, allowing local governments to purchase a suite of SaaS solutions from a single technology vendor.

The introduction of SmartGov was made possible by our acquisition of Paladin Data Systems. Paladin has pioneered community development and regulation solutions and were proud to build on that foundation," said Ed Roshitsh, Chief Executive Officer of Dude Solutions. Combined with our suite of cloud-based solutions, the introduction of SmartGov allows us to not only help government agencies drive meaningful business outcomes, but serve as a trusted partner for operations management, asset management and community development initiatives alike.

Dude Solutions has long been known as the leading provider of maintenance solutions, serving thousands of local governments and municipalities nationwide. SmartGov joins the companys suite of SaaS solutions for government which includes its flagship operations management platform, Asset Essentials. This cloud-based solution automates routine and advanced asset and operations management for Facilities, Public Works, Public Utilities, Parks and Recreation, Treatment Plants, and more.

For more information about SmartGov, or the companys suite of community development software, visit the Dude Solutions website.

ABOUT DUDE SOLUTIONS

Dude Solutions is a leading software-as-a-service (SaaS) provider of operations management solutions to education, government, healthcare, senior living, manufacturing and membership-based organizations. For nearly two decades, Dude Solutions has inspired clients to create better work and better lives. We combine innovative, user-friendly technology with the worlds smartest operations engine, empowering operations leaders to transform the most important places in our lives. Today, more than 11,000 organizations use our award-winning software to manage maintenance, assets, energy, safety, IT, events and more. For more information, visit dudesolutions.com.
The software integration between Station Check and Emergency Reporting gives fire departments quick, easy access to the data they need to operate at an optimal level of efficiency and readiness.

Emergency Reporting (ER), a leader in cloud-based Fire and EMS records management software, is pleased to announce its partnership with Station - - Check, the leader in asset management, workflow, and checklist software for fire departments. The new integration will enable ER customers to save time and gain valuable insights by streamlining information they enter through Station Check dashboards with their ER accounts.

At Emergency Reporting, we consistently seek partnerships with other leading software providers that will add value and make life easier for our customers, said Stewart Smith, Product Manager at Emergency Reporting. Station Check, like ER, provides powerful, easy-to-use software that simplifies and streamlines station management for fire service leaders, so they were a natural fit as a new addition to our growing network of partners.

Station Check provides:



Asset Management and Tracking (with a status dashboard for all assets, as well as history and detailed reporting of all maintenance)

Workflow Management (including an actionable dashboard of everything thats due, communications including new assignments and status notifications, a report on all activities, and more)

Dynamic Checklists (reducing workload and improving efficiencies)

With the ER + Station Check integration, users will be able to automatically create the following in ER without ever leaving their Station Check dashboard:



Pass through detailed information and change the status of vehicles and equipment

Automatically create repair tickets during a check or add one-off repair tickets on the fly

Auto-populate maintenance events based on either time or usage (miles/hours)

Create customizable notifications to individuals, groups or globally  editable by asset or task

The software integration between Station Check and Emergency Reporting gives fire departments quick, easy access to the data they need to operate at an optimal level of efficiency and readiness. Were incredibly excited about this latest step in Station Checks product evolution and what this means for our mutual customers, said Tony Crisalli, CEO of Station Check.

For more information about the Emergency Reporting and Station Check integration, visit http://info.emergencyreporting.com/stationcheck-1. To request a demo or free trial of Emergency Reporting, visit https://explore.emergencyreporting.com/information-request-form/.

About Station Check

Station Checks asset management, workflow, and checklist software helps fire departments achieve the highest standard of readiness, compliance, and accountability. The company began in 2010 with a single fire station and now has thousands using the powerful and easy to use software in the USA and Canada to stay aligned and ready for whats next. Station Check is a registered U.S. Government contractor and an Ohio limited liability corporation. Learn more at http://www.StationCheck.com.

About Emergency Reporting

Emergency Reporting (ER) offers a powerful, cloud-based records management software (RMS) solution to Fire/EMS agencies worldwide. Founded in 2003, ER empowers first responders with secure, easy-to-use station management tools that offer one-report filing of NFIRS and NEMSIS data. ERs affordable SaaS solution allows Fire/EMS departments to run their entire operations efficiently and effectively, enhancing both firefighter and citizen safety. ER is proud to support more than 379,000 first responders at thousands of civilian Fire/Rescue and EMS agencies and DoD/military installations, as well as large entities with self-contained Fire/EMS services such as NASA, nuclear power plants, hospitals, and oil refineries. For more information, visit http://www.emergencyreporting.com.

Media Contact:

Andrea Hayes

(844) 752-6066

andrea.hayes(at)emergencyreporting(dot)com

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Gourmet Garage Optimizes Online Shopping and Customer Convenience with Self Point E-Commerce Solution "With our newly enhanced digital storefront, shoppers can order on their mobile devices and be confident that their tables will have festive dinners and memorable family meals," says Andy Arons, CEO of Gourmet Garage.

Self Point, the leading digital commerce partner for supermarkets and specialty food retailers, today announces upgrades to online and mobile shopping for Gourmet Garage, the Manhattan grocer that invites customers to "Shop Like a Chef. Self Points e-commerce technology supports Gourmet Garage locations in New Yorks Uptown Lincoln Square Center area and Downtown with a location serving Tribeca and SoHo. Gourmet Garages customers now enjoy greater convenience online, access to specials, digital shopping lists, easy reorders of favorite meals, and more.

We are known as the accessible gourmet food retailer. By updating the online shopping experience, we are honoring our heritage as the leading supplier of essential ingredients to New Yorks finest restaurants, says Andy Arons, CEO of Gourmet Garage. Our loyal customers regularly ask us to add stores in their neighborhoods. With our newly enhanced digital storefront, shoppers can order on their mobile devices and be confident that their tables will have festive dinners and memorable family meals. To celebrate the grand opening of our refreshed mobile-first store, we are offering free delivery for online and mobile orders.

Gourmet Garage has been selling products on an online marketplace that positions grocery and consumer goods products side by side from multiple merchants. The current marketplace does not allow Gourmet Garage to maintain its iconic brand and distinctive customer experience.

With Self Points e-commerce solution, Gourmet Garages brand and the consumers journey are elevated. The Self Point technology expands the grocers competitive advantage against larger supermarkets by making shopping convenient and more personalized. The solution was integrated into Gourmet Garages point of sale system, business processes and reporting infrastructure. Self Point speeds and simplifies implementation by building product catalogs and store maps directly from online and in-store transactions.

In addition, Self Point facilitates the creation of shopping lists from previous orders with a single click. These lists can be created and edited from home or mobile devices seamlessly. All of the rich data is captured to continuously deepen the relationship with the shopper.

Gourmet Garage had an existing e-commerce platform but decided to partner with us because of our fast, full-service implementation, said Michael J. Haaf, CEO of Self Point. With our rich retail experience, we back up our clients teams with solid training and additional resources to support online order fulfillment and offline sales growth. We ensure shoppers get consistent, personalized touch points across email, web and mobile, including targeted offers based on buying behaviors and sent as push notifications or special home page messages. Self Point offers the best tools to take online and mobile orders, get products packed and shipped out of store, while saving grocers manpower.

For a complimentary consultation, please call (888) 300-9298 or email sales(at)self-point.com.

About Gourmet Garage

Gourmet Garage is the Manhattan grocer that invites customers to "Shop Like a Chef! Founded in 1981 as the importer/distributor Flying Foods International, Gourmet Garage supplied the best restaurants in New York and other major cities with their most essential ingredients. The accessible gourmet food retailer now has five stores in New York City offering natural and organic produce and products to make healthy, delicious meals. Boasting restaurant-quality prepared foods, Gourmet Garage caters to on-the-go shoppers with the highest quality and convenient customer experience. Learn more at GourmetGarage.com.

About Self Point

Self Point is the leading digital transformation partner for supermarkets, specialty food retailers and consumer packaged goods brands. Serving as a change agent for the industry, the Self Point team supports food retailers transition to online, mobile and social media markets while elevating customer experience and loyalty. The Self Point technology suite integrates point of sale and retail catalogs into a mobile-first, custom-branded e-commerce experience within days. Self Point expands grocers competitive advantage by making shopping easy, convenient and more personalized, thereby increasing customer satisfaction and revenues. Founded in 2012, Self Point has a growing client base including Unilever Israel, Associated Supermarkets, Piggly Wiggly and more. Visit Self-Point.com to learn more.
MSK Engineering is now an authorized reseller of the GSW Telnet Server for Windows, becoming the first GSW Reseller in Kazakhstan. Located in the Republic of Kazakhstan, MSK engineering is a group of companies specializing in the field of logistics automation and providing a full range of services for the automation of inventory management.

We are engaged in the automation of warehouse logistic," said Nikolay Matveev of MSK Engineering. We recommend the GSW Telnet Server to our customers.

The Georgia SoftWorks Telnet Server for Windows and SSH Server for Windows are industrial quality software designed for superior operation in the most demanding RF Terminal Environments, making them a great match for the services and solutions that MSK Engineering provides.

MSK Engineering Kazakhstans main activities include implantation of projects based on the 1C product family, business B2B applications and mobile applications (iOS and Android). They offer 24/7 customer support to their customers and for Infors customers.

Adding MSK Engineering Kazakhstan to our reseller list gives us a strong platform to reach Kazakhstan with our software, said Steve Lindsey of Georgia SoftWorks. We think that our software partnered with MSK Engineers reputation and market experience will be a winning combination.

Georgia SoftWorks is a software development company located in Dawsonville, Georgia that has gained its worldwide recognition from the development of the GSW Telnet Server for Windows and SSH Server for Windows. Georgia SoftWorks industrial quality software is designed for the most rigorous commercial environments. The reliability, robustness and features of the Georgia SoftWorks Telnet Server for Windows and the secure SSH Server for Windows has led to its global demand, which has resulted in end users and resellers on every continent.

About Georgia SoftWorks:

Established in 1991, Georgia SoftWorks is a privately held software development company recognized for creating high performance data communications, system and telecommunications applications. Georgia SoftWorks has obtained a worldwide presence with its industrial SSH/Telnet Server for Microsoft Windows. GSW's long-term commitment to SSH/Telnet has led to the pioneering of major features such as Session Shadowing, Session Monitoring, Graceful Termination, Automatic Logon, Logon Scripting and Team Services technology which allows mobile device users to transfer, swap, share and recover mobile device sessions. Most recently, Georgia SoftWorks has launched their GSW ConnectBot, a SSH/Telnet Client for Android. The GSW ConnectBot is the most cryptographically secure, commercially supported SSH client for Android, only on par with the GSW SSH Client for Windows.
Harris Personal Injury

Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. filed a complaint March 6, 2018 in the Superior Court of The State of California against Suprema, LLC; Jayleaf, LLC; AUW Ventures, LLC; Coteco Distributing Co., Inc.; Levi Jonathan Posadaspayes; Gabrielle Aflague Freedom. The complaint is filed under case number: 18CV324420.

Per the complaint, January 12, 2018, Efrain Barron was killed in an automobile accident near the intersection of State Route 25 and Bolsa Road in unincorporated Santa Clara County. The suit alleges the negligent, wrongful, reckless, tortious, and unlawful driving of Defendants Levi Jonathan Posadaspayes and Gabrielle Aflague Freedom resulted in the wrongful death of Efrain Barron.

Per the complaint, Mr. Posadaspayes was driving a commercial truck at the time of the crash, which is believed to be owned, managed, brokered, and/or leased by his employer. The suit alleged Ms. Freedom was operating her personal vehicle.

The suit was brought on behalf of Maria Guadalupe Sandoval de Barron, the surviving spouse of Efrain Barron, as well as Mr. Barrons son and two daughters who are also plaintiffs in the suit.

The family is represented by attorney Ryan D. Harris and Jordan Johnson. Mr. Harris is the managing attorney and founder of Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc., a leading personal injury law firm with offices throughout California. Mr. Johnson is a litigation lawyer in the law firms San Jose office.

Per the complaint, Mr. Barrons surviving family members are pursuing compensation for the following damages:



Destroyed or damaged clothing and other personal items belonging to the decedent;

The decedents medical expenses for emergency treatment;

Loss of love, society, companionship, comfort, affection, protection, services and financial support from the decedent;

Funeral, burial, and other out-of-pocket expenses;

Lost income and other financial support;

Costs of the lawsuit; and

Prejudgment interest.

Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. represents people who have been injured or lost loved ones in truck accidents, car accidents, dog bites, and other incidents due to the negligence of others.

Superior Court of The State of California  County of Santa Clara
We are grateful to the Department of Commerce for its role in funding the Endowed Chair in Project Management, said Hood College President Andrea E. Chapdelaine. We strive to meet the needs of the greater Frederick community, and this opportunity creates a pathway to continue that effort.

As part of a $15.8 million E-Nnovation grant for higher education institutions across Maryland, the Department of Commerce has awarded Hood College $1 million to support its new Endowed Chair in Project Management.

This position will serve the colleges new, graduate-level certificate program in project management, designed to serve industry and government in the Frederick region. The program is one of several initiatives stemming from a recently signed MOU between Hood College and Leidos Biomedical Research. Hood received matching funds from George B. Delaplaine Jr., and the new endowed chair will support the development of two initiatives within the colleges Delaplaine School of Business: Hood Ventures, a graduate-level business and technology consulting center, and Data-Driven Frederick, a research center that will house empirical work done by Hood faculty, partners, and students.

We are grateful to the Department of Commerce for its role in funding the Endowed Chair in Project Management, said Hood College President Andrea E. Chapdelaine. We strive to meet the needs of the greater Frederick community, and this opportunity creates a pathway to continue that effort. This type of public-private partnership, which brings together the State of Maryland, business and higher education to fuel economic development, is in itself a distinctive innovation, and Hood is fortunate to be part of such a community where all entities work together to strengthen our economy and serve our students and employee needs.

The Maryland E-Nnovation Initiative was created by the General Assembly during the 2014 legislative session and has provided $31.3 million in funding to leverage $37.7 million in private donations. The funding can be used to pay salaries of newly endowed department chairs, staff, and support personnel in designated scientific and technical fields of study; fund related research fellowships for graduate and undergraduate students; and purchase lab equipment and other basic infrastructure and equipment.

Hood College is an independent, liberal arts college, offering 32 undergraduate majors, four pre-professional programs, 17 graduate programs, two doctorates and 11 post-baccalaureate certificates. Located in historic Frederick, near Washington, D.C., Baltimore and the I-270 technology corridor, Hood gives students access to countless internships and research opportunities.
The 12th-annual Global Wellness Summit will be held at Technogym Village, Cesena, Italy from October 6-8, 2018. Whether walking the red carpet or traveling the world, everyone should be made to feel beautiful, elegant and stylish while still being comfortable enough to live and dream. To me, thats the ultimate expression of wellness.

The Global Wellness Summit (GWS), the foremost gathering of international leaders in the $3.7 trillion global wellness economy, today announced that Alberta Ferretti will present a keynote exploring the impact wellness is having on the fashion industry during the 12th-annual GWS at Technogym Village, Cesena, Italy from October 6-8, 2018.

In addition to being one of Italys most famed fashion designers with some of the most photographed designs on red carpets worldwide, Ferrettis creations, including ready-to-wear lines that merge high style with casual ease, are beloved around the world and treasured in Italy. In fact, Italys largest airline, Alitalia, recently partnered with Ferretti to redesign their iconic uniforms.

Ferrettis business career may get less attention than her designs, but is no less highly acclaimed. Together with her brother, Massimo Ferretti, she co-founded Aeffe, a publicly-traded fashion manufacturing and distribution company, in 1980. Today, Aeffe, which produces and distributes garments not only for Alberta Ferretti but also for Moschino, Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, Cedric Charlier and Pollini among others, continues to outperform competitors and recently reported a 15% increase in revenues for the first half of 2018.

Alberta Ferretti is a living icon who has had an incredible impact on Italys fashion landscape, not only for the feminine-infused elegance and glamour of her designs, but also for a uniquely forward-thinking business acumen that has helped make Italian styling and design much more accessible to a global audience, said Susie Ellis, GWS chairman and CEO. We are absolutely thrilled to add Mrs. Ferretti to a robust agenda in which Italian innovation, design and style will feature prominently.

The conference agenda, based on the theme Shaping the Business of Wellness, will also include keynotes from other Italian business and design luminaries, including award-winning Italian architects Antonio Citterio and Matteo Thun; founder of Technogym Nerio Alessandri; and Andrea Illy, chairman of coffee powerhouse illycaffe.

Whether walking the red carpet or traveling the world, everyone should be made to feel beautiful, elegant and stylish while still being comfortable enough to live and dream. To me, thats the ultimate expression of wellness, said Alberta Ferretti.

Im thrilled that my friend Alberta Ferretti, one of the most iconic Italian fashion designers, will join us during the Global Wellness Summit to share her insights on style and creativity, said Nerio Alessandri, Founder and CEO of Technogym. Along with exercise, fashion, design and good nutrition make up the fundamental elements of our wellness visionwhich means feeling good both physically and emotionally.

The invitation-only 12th-annual Summit will take place October 6-8 at Technogym Village and is expected to attract well over 600 delegates. The conference theme Shaping the Business of Wellness will focus on the ten sectors that make up todays multi-trillion wellness economy: beauty, healthy eating, wellness tourism, fitness/mind-body, preventive/personalized medicine, complementary/alternative medicine, wellness lifestyle real estate, the spa industry, the thermal/mineral springs market and workplace wellness.

The Global Wellness Summit is the worlds leading conference on the business of wellness and always a sold-out event. To apply to attend, click here.

About the Global Wellness Summit: The Global Wellness Summit is an invitation-only international gathering that brings together leaders and visionaries to positively shape the future of the $3.7 trillion global wellness economy. Held in a different location each year, Summits have taken place in the U.S., Switzerland, Turkey, Bali, India, Morocco, Mexico and Austria. The 12th-annual Summit will be held at Technogym Village, Cesena, Italy from October 6-8, 2018.
Foundations Recovery Network (FRN), an innovative behavioral health treatment provider, is proud to announce that the Innovations in Behavioral Healthcare Conference (IIBH) will be returning to Nashville for the fourth year in a row. The conference will be held August 9-10 at the brand new JW Marriott downtown.

The two keynote presentations kicking off and wrapping up the event will feature nationally and locally recognized community leaders on addiction and mental health. The 2016 CNN Hero and a White House Champion of Change, Becca Stevens, founder and president of Thistle Farms, will draw from her personal experience as leading a community of survivors to become the largest social justice enterprise in the US. The events final speaker is Miles Adcox, owner and CEO of Onsite, an internationally known emotional wellness lifestyle brand. He will present on emotional fitness, guiding attendees through living a centered life, while teaching them to thrive in todays 100-mile per hour, high-stress environment.

In between the keynotes will be two days packed with presentations and an exhibit hall focused on exploring new and emerging modalities and proven approaches to substance abuse and co-occurring treatment. The event will also highlight breakthroughs in complex mental health disorders and process addictions. The primary goal of IIBH is to equip treatment professionals and organizations to effectively meet the needs of specialized clients and demographics and to inform them of the latest business trends and topics impacting the industry.

New this year, IIBH is celebrating those who are making a difference on the front lines and furthering the cause of recovery in local communities. IIBH will be hosting two initiatives that speak to those actions. The first is a free and open-to-the-community Naloxone Training taking place on Friday, August 10 at 7:30 am. The training is hosted in conjunction with the Nashville Prevention Partnership, Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Regional Opioid Prevention Specialists and kaleo. Secondly, Foundations Recovery Network will be giving back to three Nashville organizations that are making a huge impact for people in need: Healing Housing, STARS Nashville and Park Center. Attendees have the power to help send these charities home with a financial gift to boost the great work theyre doing here in Tennessee through a Charity Challenge.

For more information about the conference or to register, visit FoundationsEvents.com.

About Foundations Events

Foundations Events is constantly seeking to add value to the treatment and behavioral healthcare community, and one way they do this is through hosting engaging, informative and entertaining conferences. Foundations Events has hosted 52 national conferences, earning a reputation as the leader in behavioral healthcare events. Each year, multiple conferences are offered nationwide that focus on providing the latest information on treatment methods. These events are widely known and respected in the behavioral health industry for both their educational and networking opportunities. Experts from all over the country provide unique workshops and keynote presentations on a variety of treatment subjects. Typically, conference attendees have a chance to earn around 14 hours of continuing education credit as well as a Professionals Certificate in Behavioral Healthcare only available through our events. Foundations Events is part of Foundations Recovery Network, an innovative healthcare treatment provider. For more information about the conference or to register, visit FoundationsEvents.com.
The existing shareholders of Incentive Solutions (ISI), a leading B2B incentive management company, have completed a majority recapitalization in partnership with The CapStreet Group, LLC (CapStreet), a private equity firm based in Houston, TX, which has an established portfolio of investments in outsourced business services companies. Mark Herbert will assume the role of President and CEO of the company in connection with the investment.

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Atlanta, GA, Incentive Solutions offers online rewards, travel incentives, and gift card reward programs. The company is known for pioneering technological innovationsincluding add-on modules for online incentive programswhich have transformed the industry. Blending innovative technology with traditional reward functionalities, Incentive Solutions creates incentive programs that are an integral part of strategic sales and marketing plans.

We are truly excited to join forces with The CapStreet Group, which shares our commitment to technological advances, customer service, and a company culture that inspires performance, said Mark Herbert, President and CEO of Incentive Solutions. CapStreets resources and experience will be invaluable in helping us accelerate our growth and expand opportunities for our entire team. It also will further empower us in our ongoing role as trusted advisors for clients, helping them solve challenges, motivate employees, and increase ROI for a range of business objectives.

Tom Caughlin, Principal with CapStreet, stated, We are very excited to partner with the team at Incentive Solutions, which we view as a leader in an ever evolving and growing industry. We have been very impressed with their best-in-class customer service, partnership approach, technology, and expertise within the channel rewards segment. We look forward to working with the Incentive Solutions team and investing in the companys technology, customer experience, and growth initiatives.

Incentive Solutions is the seventh investment for CapStreet IV, LP, which has $340 million of committed capital.

About Incentive Solutions

Incentive Solutions, Inc., founded in 1994 and based in Atlanta, GA, offers online rewards, travel incentives, and gift card rewards. From the beginning, ISI has focused on delivering more than just reward fulfillment, setting out to innovate the incentive industry by utilizing and developing emerging online technologies. Acting as valued partner and trusted advisor to clients, ISI helps organizations increase sales, motivate employees, build customer loyalty, create positive work environments, and improve channel sales relationships. For more information, visit http://www.incentivesolutions.com

About The CapStreet Group

The CapStreet Group is a Houston, Texas-based private equity firm that invests in owner-managed, lower middle market companies. CapStreet targets companies operating in the value-added distribution, industrial services and manufacturing, and business to business service sectors. CapStreets approach is to partner with excellent management teams to build out corporate infrastructure, accelerate growth and profitability, and create long-term sustainable businesses. For more information, visit http://www.capstreet.com




Rob Gibson

The August long is in the rear-view mirror and while we may have had a small reprieve from the heat last week, don't turn the air conditioning down just yet.

Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement in effect for:

Central Okanagan - including Kelowna

North Okanagan - including Vernon

South Okanagan - including Penticton

The mercury is set to soar by mid-week over the southern interior as a strengthening ridge of high pressure draws hot air up from the western U.S.

High temperatures will reach the low thirties and creep up another degree or two Tuesday, by Wednesday and Thursday daytime maximums will peak in the mid to high thirties with the potential for some communities to reach the 40-degree mark; overnight lows will only drop to the upper teens to about twenty degrees.

Heat Warnings may be issued later this week for some interior communities.

Cooling is expected to begin Friday.

There is also a special air quality statement in effect for the South Okanagan.

People with pre-existing health conditions, the elderly, infants, children and sensitive individuals are more likely to experience health effects from smoke exposure.

Environment Canada meteorologist Matt MacDonald tells Castanet the smoke may actually be helping to keep things cooler.

"Shortwave radiation coming from the sun gets filtered by the smoke so it reduces the daytime heating, but at night the earth radiates heat, giving it off if you will, and the smoke allows that out. So it keeps the daytime highs down and keeps the nights cooler."
Both Interjet and Japan Airline customers will have the convenience of single ticket itineraries, bags checked to their final destination and easy airport connections.

Interjet Airlines today, announced another interline agreement, this time with Japan Airlines, providing customers convenient connections between the networks of the two airlines. Interjet Airlines customers connecting at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport (DFW), can now travel to Asia with the convenience of purchasing a single ticket for flights on either airline, checking baggage at their origination to their final destination, and easy connections at the airports served by both carriers. Japan Airlines customers traveling to Mexico, will have the same convenience of a single ticket itinerary, bags checked to their final destination and easy airport connections.

"We are very excited to announce another important interline agreement between Interjet Airlines and Japan Airlines," said Jose Luis Garza, General Director for Interjet Airlines. "Our commitment has been to offer our business and leisure travelers everywhere we fly, our unique brand of lower prices with free checked bags on select fares, more legroom between seats and great service that differentiates us from our peer competitors. With this Japan Airlines agreement, we can now offer greater connectivity to more of the world, he added.

Japan Airlines (JAL) was established in 1951 and flies over 148 international routes each day to 52 countries/regions. With a fleet of more than 230 aircraft servicing 349 airports around the world, Japan Airlines is recognized as one of the most on-time airlines and is committed to providing its customers with the highest level of safety and quality of service in everything they do.

For more information regarding Interjet or to make a reservation, visit http://www.interjet.com. In the U.S. call (866) 285-9525.

About Interjet Airlines

Interjet is an international airline based in Mexico City and carries more than 12 million passengers annually within Mexico and between Mexico, the United States, Canada, Central and South America. In all, it provides air service to 55 destinations in eight countries offering its passengers greater connections and travel options through agreements with major airlines such as Alitalia, All Nippon Airways (ANA), American Airlines, British Airways, LATAM Group, Hainan Air, Iberia, Lufthansa and Japan Airlines.

Media Contact

Julieta Pena Flores

Tel. +52 (55) 9178 5500 x5833

Email: julieta.pena(at)interjet.com.mx
We are extremely proud to be a sponsor of the Cloud+ Conference again this year. Our expertise and leadership in cloud access control is second to none and we look forward to sharing our insights with the security industry, states Robert Lydic, Global VP of Sales at ISONAS.

ISONAS Inc., a leading Pure IP access control system manufacturer and part of the Allegion family of brands, today announced that the company will sponsor the Cloud+ Conference taking place on September 5 and 6 at the Del Ray Beach Marriott in Florida. Cloud+ is the only cloud-centric event in the physical security industry brought to the market by Security Systems News (SSN). Cloud-based software, network connected devices and wireless locks are shifting how the world protects facilities, and there is no better place for security professionals to learn the ins and outs of cloud than Cloud+. This two-day event has powerful educational sessions and an exhibit hall focused solely on cloud-based technology all wrapped up with dynamic networking opportunities. With cloud-based technology transforming the security industry, this show has become the whos who in cloud, bringing leading manufacturers, integrators and industry experts together to discuss the challenges and opportunities available in the cloud for top security professionals. Our 4th annual Cloud+ conference is shaping up to be our best one yet, states SSN Editor Paul Ragusa. Overall, this years Cloud+ program will be looking at how cloud enables new technology, how it provides many opportunities for integrators, consultants and specifiers, while giving end users the potential for ROI, BI, operational efficiencies, and a more preventive and predictive security posture that addresses cybersecurity concerns as well.

With a conference that brings top-notch, cloud technology thought leaders together, ISONAS has been selected to represent the suppliers input on how access control as a service can benefit integrators. With its Pure Access Cloud product and integrator specific license, a license that catapults integrators into a recurring monthly revenue business model, ISONASs Global VP of Sales, Robert Lydic, was an obvious choice for this panel. During the panel discussion on How Cloud Can Help Integrators.A Suppliers Perspective, panelists will share how leading suppliers are supporting their integrator customers in the migration to cloud and why they believe its beneficial to migrate to a managed services model. At a time in our industry where physical security is being driven more and more by IT, IP and cloud connectivity, these subject matter experts will review what is being done to help the integrator community adapt, succeed and profit.

Attendees can also visit the exhibit hall to explore the leading cloud technologies available in the market. ISONAS will be exhibiting its Pure Access cloud-based access control software along with their leading network-based edge device, the RC-04 reader-controller. We are extremely proud to be a sponsor of the Cloud+ Conference again this year. Our expertise and leadership in cloud access control is second to none and we look forward to sharing our insights with the security industry, states Robert Lydic, Global VP of Sales at ISONAS. Im honored to have been chosen as a panelist and look forward to helping integrators learn how the cloud can help them succeed and take their business to the next level. ISONAS is leading the market with their complete access control solution and is truly committed to providing its certified integrator partners a simple path to a managed services business.

Since 1999, ISONAS has been revolutionizing access control with one simple solution and is todays leading manufacturer of Pure IP Access Control hardware. When paired with their industry leading cloud hosted software solutions or 3rd party full featured access control software, a complete access control platform is formed. An ISONAS system provides an ideal product solution for securing facilities while reducing costs and providing all of the advantages that Pure IP technology brings to the door. ISONAS is based in the global technology hub of Boulder, Colorado, and has one goal; to change the global access control market, and provide a product solution that is secure, reliable, trusted, and more technologically advanced than anything before. Today, the company is realizing that vision with the ISONAS solution installed globally in over 30 countries in a wide variety of vertical markets. ISONAS has been recognized as one of Boulder Countys fastest growing companies as well as by industry partners such as Milestone Systems, year after year for its powerful video and access control integration.

To learn more about ISONAS, visit http://www.isonas.com or email sales(at)isonas.com

###

About Allegion:

Allegion (NYSE: ALLE) is a global pioneer in safety and security, with leading brands like CISA, Interflex, LCN, Schlage, SimonsVoss and Von Duprin. Focusing on security around the door and adjacent areas, Allegion produces a range of solutions for homes, businesses, schools and other institutions. Allegion is a $2.4 billion company, with products sold in almost 130 countries. For more information, visit http://www.allegion.com.

ISONAS Contact:

Melissa Stenger, VP of Product Management & Marketing

ISONAS Inc.

Phone: 303-567-6516

Email: melissas(at)isonas.com

PR Contact:

Monique Merhige, President

Infusion Direct Marketing & Advertising, Inc.

Phone: 631-846-1558

Email: monique(at)infusiondirect.com
Jono Hardjowirogo believes there are very few stories from Java, Indonesia that are known outside of the country. He wants to bring one with Java as its backdrop and it prompted him to write Noto of Java: A Tale of Love, Struggle, and Ascension in a Land of Ambiguity (published by Xlibris in May 2012). For more details about the book, please visit http://www.amazon.com/Noto-Java-Struggle-Ascension-Ambiguity/dp/1469199963.

Set for a new marketing campaign, this novel tells the story of Noto, an orphan who succeeded in business as well as in the military. He started a batik delivery business while still in high school by employing some of his classmates. Eventually the business became so successful that by the time he graduated from high school it already have branches in several major cities throughout Java. While he studied at the military academy and after he became an army officer, Noto entrusted his business to others to run. The business continued to prosper even while he was in the army.

One day while on leave from the army, while perusing through the photo album of a relative, Noto saw the picture of his deceased mother who, as it turned out, was a long missing court dance teacher. This discovery led him to the palace where the current Sultan told him an incredible story. It seemed that Notos father would have been king had he not decided to run away after he accidentally killed his parents (the previous king and queen) in a car accident. The current Sultan as it turned out is none other than his uncle. Since his uncle does not have a son, he decided to restore the line of succession by making Noto the crown prince.

Noto of Java: A Tale of Love, Struggle, and Ascension in a Land of Ambiguity, is interlaced with cultural details of the history, food, mythologies, traditions and rituals of the Javanese as well as details of the social, political and religious factions within the whole of Indonesia.

Noto of Java: A Tale of Love, Struggle, and Ascension in a Land of Ambiguity

By Jono Hardjowirogo

Hardcover | 6 x 9in | 269 pages | ISBN 9781469199979

Softcover | 6 x 9in | 269 pages | ISBN 9781469199962

E-Book | 269 pages | ISBN 9781469199986

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the Author

A graduate of Long Island University and the University of California at Los Angeles, Jono Hardjowirogo had worked for Hayden Books, Bantam Books, Simon & Schuster, Henry Holt and Berlitz International. He then spent 12 years with the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) as its publisher of professional peer-reviewed journals. He was actively involved in the Association of American Publishers, for which he chaired its prestigious Journals Boot Camp for new editors in Montreal in 2001 and in Philadelphia in 2002. In 2010, Hardjowirogo was given honor by Cambridge Whos Who, which named him Professional of the Year of the Publishing Industry. In the same year, he also received a certificate of recognition for inclusion into the Elite American Executive.

Xlibris Publishing, an Author Solutions, LLC imprint, is a self-publishing services provider created in 1997 by authors, for authors. By focusing on the needs of creative writers and artists and adopting the latest print-on-demand publishing technology and strategies, we provide expert publishing services with direct and personal access to quality publication in hardcover, trade paperback, custom leather-bound and full-color formats. To date, Xlibris has helped to publish more than 60,000 titles. For more information, visit xlibris.com or call 1-888-795-4274 to receive a free publishing guide. Follow us @XlibrisPub on Twitter for the latest news.
Lauren Davis joins TTR Sothebys International Realty as Senior Vice President I truly understand the value of owning a home in this area and love helping new neighbors find their place our community

TTR Sothebys International Realty is pleased to announce Lauren Davis as Senior Vice President.

Regarded as one of the top real estate agents in the Washington Metropolitan Area, Davis was most recently recognized by RealTrends as the top real estate agent by individual sales volume in Maryland in 2017.

A native of the Bethesdas Edgemoor community, Davis attended Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School and Denison University before joining her mother, Sherry, to form the original Davis Team in 2002. Since, Davis has developed a powerful and dynamic team with an emphasis on hands on service and a well-curated brand.

I truly understand the value of owning a home in this area and love helping new neighbors find their place in our community, says Davis, who joins TTR Sothebys International Realty alongside Sherry Davis, Meghan Stroebel, and Corrina McGlone.

A leader in her community, Davis serves as the primary sponsor of the Somerset Elementary Back-to-School Classic 8K, which supports the Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School Educational Foundation and the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad.

I have always deeply respected and admired Lauren and her mother Sherry, says Jonathan Taylor, Founder and Managing Partner of TTR Sothebys International Realty. I couldnt be more thrilled than to be actually working together on the same team and truly collaborating on a daily basis.

About TTR Sothebys International Realty

TTR Sothebys International Realty is the exclusive Sothebys International Realty affiliate for the Washington Metropolitan Region. With nine offices located strategically across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, our 450 real estate professionals are ranked among the highest performing in the nation, and are regarded for their integrity, professional service, and community leadership. Through our relationship with the venerable Sothebys auction house, TTR Sothebys International Realty produces extraordinary results for our clients by leveraging proprietary global marketing, cutting edge digital strategies, and unrivaled access to the most affluent and discerning global clientele. To learn more about TTR Sothebys International Realty, visit ttrsir.com.
"LexisNexis is a leader in legal market innovation and this accelerator supports broader innovation in legal community..." Jeff Pfeifer, LexisNexis Vice President of Product Management

LexisNexis today announced that it is accepting applications for the third cohort of the LexisNexis Legal Tech Accelerator. The program is designed to give start-ups a leg-up in the rapidly expanding legal tech industry. The accelerator leverages LexisNexis deep expertise in legal, technology and start-up domains, and industry-leading market position to advise and incubate program participants.

The accelerator will be co-located in the Menlo Park, CA offices of Lex Machina and at the LexisNexis Raleigh Technology Center in Raleigh, NC. The program will again be led by Lex Machina CEO, Josh Becker; Chief Evangelist, Owen Byrd; and LexisNexis Vice President of Product Management, Jeff Pfeifer; with additional support from LexisNexis Chief Technology Officer, Jeff Reihl, and Chief Product Officer, Jamie Buckley.

After two successful cohorts, we are pleased to announce the next round of our Tech Accelerator, said Jeff Pfeifer. LexisNexis is a leader in legal market innovation and this accelerator supports broader innovation in legal community. Twelve companies have now completed the LexisNexis Legal Tech Accelerator program, with each continuing on a remarkable path of growth and evolution.

Not only do you learn how to run a legal tech company from some of the best to do it, but the executive team is extremely well connected in Silicon Valley and can make introductions to people you never thought accessible, said Ryan Alshak, CEO of Ping, a prior participant in the LexisNexis Legal Tech Accelerator and the 2017 American Bar Association Legal Tech Start-up of the Year. It was an absolute privilege to have participated in the accelerator's inaugural batch and we are still reaping the rewards many times over.

As part of the three-month program, accelerator participants will engage in a rigorous curriculum designed for early-stage companies in the legal market:



Tools: Access to cutting-edge tools and technologies from LexisNexis and Lex Machina

Mentorship: Weekly hands-on sessions with LexisNexis executives on growing legal tech companies, and ad hoc discussions with other LexisNexis executives about technology, user experience & design, product development, product marketing and other topics

Education: One-hour strategy sessions on a variety of topics, including marketing and selling to legal departments; running an agile product development organization; leveraging legal data; best practices in customer service, employee management, marketing and funding

Connections: Leverage relationships with Stanford and other Bay-Area schools, businesses, VCs and other influencers

Workspace: Space for up to four people inside the exciting Lex Machina offices in Menlo Park, CA or in the LexisNexis Raleigh Technology Center on the North Carolina State University Centennial Campus

Legal Tech Accelerator participants will also have access to cutting-edge tools and technologies from LexisNexis, and will be able to leverage the companys established relationships with Stanford University, North Carolina State University, Silicon Valley businesses, VCs and influencers to grow their organizations.

Lex Machina has deep roots in Silicon Valley and LexisNexis is embedded in North Carolinas Research Triangle with offices on Centennial Campus at North Carolina State University, noted Josh Becker, CEO of Lex Machina. Being actively involved in Stanford Universitys CODEX program, and having started as a special interest project at Stanford before spinning off as a start-up, we know first-hand the struggles that legal tech start-ups go through. The goal of our program is to directly address the unique market challenges of launching a company in the legal market.

For more information, or to apply to the tech accelerator program, interested parties should email techaccelerator@lexisnexis.com.

About LexisNexis Legal & Professional

LexisNexis Legal & Professional is a leading global provider of legal, regulatory and business information and analytics that help customers increase productivity, improve decision-making and outcomes, and advance the rule of law around the world.

As a digital pioneer, the company was the first to bring legal and business information online with its Lexis and Nexis services. LexisNexis Legal & Professional, which serves customers in more than 130 countries with 10,000 employees worldwide, is part of RELX Group, a global provider of information and analytics for professional and business customers across industries.

About Lex Machina

Lex Machinas award-winning Legal Analytics platform is a new category of legal technology that fundamentally changes how companies and law firms compete in the business and practice of law. Delivered as Software-as a-Service, Lex Machina provides strategic insights on judges, lawyers, parties, and more, mined from millions of pages of legal information.

Based in Silicon Valley, Lex Machina is part of LexisNexis, a leading information provider and a pioneer in delivering trusted legal content and insights through innovative research and productivity solutions, supporting the needs of legal professionals at every step of their workflow. By harnessing the power of Big Data, LexisNexis provides legal professionals with essential information and insights derived from an unmatched collection of legal and news contentfueling productivity, confidence, and better outcomes.
Moxy NYC Times Square A cloud-based BI system is very cost effective. It eliminates the need for hardware and servers and the physical system is secure off-site so I can focus on operating properties.

Lightstone is a national real estate investor/developer with 28 hospitality properties nationwide. The companys current portfolio emphasizes select services hotels, branded by Marriott, Hilton, IHG, and Starwood. How big do you think its asset management team is?

I am responsible for overseeing hotel performance across our 28-property REIT and I am always on a plane, said Marc Dober, vice president, asset management for Lightstone. We buy and develop hotels to grow our business. Business is based on numbers; budget, revenue, expenses, EBIDTA. The only way we could efficiently manage our portfolio by the numbers as we grew was to automate data gathering, analysis and reporting. Last year we implemented a hospitality business intelligence system called Execuvue from Aptech Computer Systems. Today I have a staff of two and go over the numbers on my handheld while Im traveling.

BI system replaces one full-time analyst

Dober has a handful of reports he evaluates first thing every morning, regardless of where he is. Execuvue automatically gathers and analyzes data from our Hilton, IHG, Marriott and Starwood properties at night audit. I also review the latest STAR data on my mobile. The system gives me analysis and reporting within minutes to support our business decisions or answer questions on the fly with near real-time data, said Dober. Execuvue replaces a full-time staff member and makes it possible to manage more efficiently with better information. Execuvue Hospitality Business Intelligence is an IBM Cognos-based ASP enterprise hospitality business intelligence application hosted at Aptechs secure data operations center.

Lightstone evaluates property performance based on brands and management companies. We compare GOPs and other metrics from our hotels and Execuvue factors in monthly STAR numbers to help benchmark our management companies, said Dober. A cloud-based BI system is very cost effective. It eliminates the need for hardware and servers and the physical system is secure off-site so I can focus on operating properties. The big plus for me is that I can access our data remotely in a mobile format if needed. This lets me review the reporting I need for my next meeting while I am traveling.

Lightstone is developing Moxy properties with Marriott in several markets. Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS), named Lightstones Moxy Times Square as Development of the Year Select/Limited Service hotel for 2017. We are currently developing 6 Moxys. These properties have a unique F&B reporting format. We worked with Aptech to create custom reporting and a data interface with our Moxy property point of sale systems, said Dober. The Moxy concept replaces the traditional room service model with The Pickup, a twist on the traditional grab-and-go concept. Bar Moxy is the social center of the hotel that offers guests and locals a co-working space during the day while transforming into a buzzing lounge at night.

Aptech is a great technology partner for Lightstone. They helped us customize a report for several processes that may be unique to Lightstones operation, said Dober. We recently developed an on the books report that looks at reservations for a specific period and compares it against the same period last year. This lets us predict performance more accurately and adjust our strategy as needed.

Aptech is the leading provider of hotel software for business intelligence, budgeting, and enterprise financial accounting. Click here for more on Aptechs products and services.

About Lightstone

Lightstone, founded by David Lichtenstein, is one of the largest and most diversified privately held real estate companies in the United States. Lightstone is active in 28 states across the country, developing, managing and investing in all sectors of the real estate market, including residential, hospitality, commercial, and retail. With over 176 existing properties, Lightstones $3 billion portfolio currently includes over 6 million square feet of office, retail and industrial commercial properties, over 15,000 residential units, and 4,000 hotel keys. Lightstone also owns over 12,000 land lots across the country.

Headquartered in New York City, Lightstone continues to grow its development portfolio with approximately $2.3 billion currently under development in the residential and hospitality sectors spread across New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami.

About Aptech Computer Systems, Inc.

Aptech Computer Systems, Inc., based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is the only provider of a fully integrated enterprise accounting, business intelligence and planning ecosystem to the hospitality industry. All of its clients are companies like yours, which own or manage hotels. Its solutions help customers at both the corporate and property levels understand their financial and operational data for faster goal achievement.

The company is renowned for introducing business intelligence into the hotel industry, and offers a solid resource of hospitality professionals. Aptech is an IBM Software Value Plus partner and Premier Solution Provider, as well as a Prophix Premier Business Partner.

Incorporated in 1970, Aptechs state-of-the-art back office, true business intelligence and enterprise planning solutions are 100% hotel specific. Solutions include PVNG, Execuvue and Targetvue. Clients comprise over 3,500 properties - including large chains, multiple-property management companies and single-site hotels. Execuvue is registered to Aptech Computer Systems, Inc. All other trademarks are owned by their respective holders. For more information please visit http://www.aptech-inc.com.
Jennifer is excited to cultivate an inclusive entrepreneurial culture across the university, and she possesses the leadership acumen to do so, said Robinson College Dean Richard Phillips.

Jennifer Sherer, vice president of innovation and entrepreneurship at the Metro Atlanta Chamber, has been appointed director of the Entrepreneurship & Innovation Institute (ENI) at Georgia State Universitys J. Mack Robinson College of Business.

During her tenure at the Metro Atlanta Chamber, Sherer led numerous initiatives to drive collaboration in the innovation community, support entrepreneurs and elevate Atlantas status as a globally recognized innovation hub.

Prior to joining the Chamber, Sherer was executive director of Southeast Bio, a regional organization that fosters the growth of life science industries in the Southeast. She began her career in Emory Universitys Office of Technology Transfer managing licensing for inventions spanning pharmaceuticals, biologics, medical devices, consumer products, research tools and computer software.

Jennifer is excited to cultivate an inclusive entrepreneurial culture across the university, and she possesses the leadership acumen to do so, said Robinson College Dean Richard Phillips. This skill, combined with her network of relationships across Atlanta and the Southeastern United States, will accelerate our ability to integrate ENI into the regions entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem and will greatly enhance opportunities for our students and our impact as a major urban research university.

Sherer holds a Ph.D. in molecular physiology and biological physics from the University of Virginia. She succeeds Richard Welke, ENIs inaugural director, who retired earlier this summer. She will start on Aug. 15.
To be recognized by my peers and included as a super lawyer in Super Lawyer Magazine is something I am very proud of.

Donet, McMillan & Trontz , PA is a criminal defense law firm with over 50 years' experience behind them. The firm has provided trusted legal counsel to its clients in Miami and south Florida for decades, with a high rate of success. Together and individually, David A. Donet, Jr., Larry T. McMillan, and David M. Trontz have received countless awards and accolades for their superior service in the state of Florida. The awards are a testament to their high level of professionalism, their dedication to the field of law, and their commitment to excellence and a right to defense they bring their clients.

Recently, Larry T. McMillan, one-third of this aggressive criminal defense team, was announced as one of the super lawyers of 2018 by Super Lawyers Magazine. Each year Super Lawyers chooses attorneys from a number of law firms of all sizes from more than 70 areas in the United States. The aim is to showcase attorneys who have demonstrated a commitment to their field and to their clients. Candidates for this esteemed title are nominated by peers and put through a stringent process to ensure the nominees meet the criteria necessary to receive the recognition and title. "It's a great honor to be a part of this," says Larry. "To be recognized by my peers and included as a super lawyer in Super Lawyer Magazine is something I am very proud of."

The selection and verification process for super lawyers is intensive. A research team led by top-level attorneys searches for those candidates who have received honors, positive legal results, or credentials that display a high level of peer recognition and superior competence. Super Lawyers searches for those attorneys who are the best at what they do, who display commitment to serving their clients, and who uphold all the values expected of them.

Larry T. McMillan has achieved the Super Lawyers 2018 recognition because he, along with his associates, believes in the law and providing the best defense for their clients. The firm's passion for law and their commitment to providing the best legal defense for their clients is what makes them outstanding. Larry's Super Lawyer recognition is another example of that commitment to excellence, McMillan is proud to have received the super lawyer honor and will continue to demonstrate those core values and the professionalism that has always been at the heart of Donet, McMillan & Trontz , PA.

For more information about the attorneys at Donet, McMillan and Trontz PA and the services they offer visit their website http://www.dmt-law.com or call (305) 396-3982.
MultiPlan, Inc. announced today it is now accepting submissions for its annual Holiday Card Program.

One of MultiPlans most popular philanthropic initiatives, the Holiday Card Program collects holiday-inspired drawings from pediatric patients in hospitals participating in any of MultiPlans PPO networks and hosts a vote on its website. The five entries that receive the most votes are made into holiday greeting cards, courtesy of MultiPlan and presented to the hospitals that submitted the entries. The hospitals may use the cards to raise funds for pediatric activities.

MultiPlan also rewards the top five artists for their efforts: each of these artists will receive a framed print of their artwork, their very own holiday cards featuring their drawing and a cash value gift card prize. All artwork submitted will be featured on holiday cards available for purchase online October 29  November 16. A link to the store will be available on the MultiPlan website on October 29. Proceeds from card sales will be donated to a charity selected by MultiPlan.

This program is always a hit with our participating hospitals. Its fun for the kids to see their drawings come to life on greeting cards and their families love being able to order them through our online store to proudly send out around the holidays, says Dr. Anthony Sposato, Corporate Medical Director for MultiPlan.

Entries must be received by August 31, 2018. Voting will take place September 24  October 5 on MultiPlans web site at http://www.multiplan.com/providers/. Winners will be announced the week of October 17. For information about the program contact MultiPlan at Holidaycard@MultiPlan.com.

In addition to the Holiday Card Program, MultiPlan provides participating hospitals with Jeep PowerWheels toy cars through its Toy Car Program, and issues financial grants to qualifying hospitals through its Rural Health Outreach Grant Program.

About MultiPlan

MultiPlan is committed to helping healthcare payers manage the cost of care, improve their competitiveness and inspire positive change. Leveraging sophisticated technology, data analytics and a team rich with industry experience, the company interprets clients needs and customizes innovative solutions that combine its payment integrity, network-based and analytics-based services. MultiPlan is a trusted partner to over 900,000 healthcare providers nationwide and to 700 healthcare payers in the commercial health, property and casualty, and government markets with 60 million members using our networks. MultiPlan is owned by Hellman & Friedman and other investors. For more information, visit multiplan.com.
Zero-Defects Trophy Awarded to Employees NAI...(has) achieved zero-defect manufacturing in their Hermosillo, Mexico Plant 2 for one year. The event also signifies a one-year period without customer returns or complaints.

During this period, NAI produced 25,000 fiber optic riser cable assemblies, 200,000 fiber optic jumpers and more than 3 million cable terminations. A total of 2,800 kilometers of fiber optic cable was processed in 840,000 man hours.

An address to all employees by Ruben Robles, Plant Manager, and Alejandra Flores, Quality Leader, commended employees for their hard work and commitment to quality excellence, which was supported with presentations and videos. Several shifts of employees in Plant #2 in Hermosillo, Mexico celebrated this event and were awarded.

This significant event for NAI was also recognized by several of their customers, including two leading wireless infrastructure OEMs.

NAI employs disciplined quality planning and management and Lean Manufacturing in its operations. The following are just some of NAIs proven quality process features:



Standardized APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) to assure a seamless product launch

The use of proprietary testing protocols throughout manufacturing

A relentless passion for excellence and continuous improvement

Utilization of the NAI Fiber Center of Excellence (COE) for product development and design, with a focus on DFM (Design for Manufacturing)

For more information on NAI and its Quality Process, please visit: http://www.nai-group.com. Phone: 248-817-4106.

About NAI

NAI has been a global leader in the manufacturing of advanced mission-critical and high-reliability fiber optic and copper cable assemblies and harnesses since 1993. NAI features a world class integrated supply chain, expert operations management, and a global manufacturing footprint in low cost regions. These all combine to provide NAI customers with a unique solution for their connectivity product requirements, from fiber optic and copper cable assemblies to box and panel assemblies.

NAI manufactures assemblies across diverse markets including fiber optics, telecom, industrial, and medical industries. The companys unique ability to service both high mix / low volume and low mix / high volume programs, while complying with complex regulatory requirements, enables them to support the unique business needs of all customers, delivering the confidence and reliability that enable their success.

Photo Captions

Photo #1  Carlos Canez, NAIs Director of Operations in Mexico, presents a Defect-Free Award Trophy to employees of Plant #2 in recognition of their outstanding achievement.

Photo #2  Employees of Plant #2 who contributed to the Zero Defects accomplishment.
NFAs continued partnership with Delta exposes students to the unique world of aviation while also developing leadership, teamwork and communication skills to prepare them for the future.

Delta Air Lines recently launched the Delta Propel Pilot Career Path Program to identify, select and develop the next generation of pilots. The National Flight Academy was identified as a community partner organization that will continue to support innovative career paths for the future aviation workforce.

This industry leading program complements the traditional, existing paths to becoming a Delta pilot and has three main areas of focus college, company and community. This three-pronged approach will help Delta support future aviators as well as current Delta employees who have a passion for aviation and strong interest in becoming a Delta pilot.

NFAs continued partnership with Delta exposes students to the unique world of aviation while also developing leadership, teamwork and communication skills to prepare them for the future, said Lt. Gen. Duane Thiessen, CEO of the National Flight Academy. We look forward to the continued partnership under the Propel program, including collaboration with their Flight Operations and TechOps team.

Since 2013, Delta Air Lines, the Official Airline of the National Flight Academy, has sponsored nearly 1,600 students to attend the National Flight Academy. Attendance is made possible through scholarships provided to students in community partner organizations, children of active duty military families, children of Delta employees/retirees and children of Endeavor Air employees, a wholly owned subsidiary of Delta. In addition, scholarships were provided to Deltas Joint Venture Partner Airlines Virgin Atlantic, GOL and Aeromexico in the 2018 camps to offer their employees children.

Other key partnerships under the Delta Propel Pilot Career Path Program include Aviation Career Enrichment, Civil Air Patrol, Conyers Middle School  Center for Technology and Engineering, National Gay Pilots Association, the National Intercollegiate Flying Association, Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, West Michigan Aviation Academy and Women in Aviation International.

Delta pilots will continue to teach students about aviation and familiarize them with pilot career opportunities through the Propel Community Outreach. Scholarships, consistent engagement and a robust mentoring program will help the airline enhance the diversity of the candidate pool and support a more inclusive selection process.

Additional information about the program and the airlines partner universities can be found on propel.delta.com.

About the National Flight Academy

The National Flight Academy, located in Pensacola, Fla., aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola, is designed to address the serious concerns of declining Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) skills and standards in our country. The Academys mission is to inspire students who subsequently return to their parent schools and seek out the more challenging courses in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.

The NFA is a self-supporting, tuition-based educational program. We welcome support from individuals, corporations and foundations for both our scholarship program and general operation funds.

For more information about the National Flight Academy, visit http://www.nationalflightacademy.com or find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Please contact Malerie Shelton, Director of Marketing & Public Relations, via email at mshelton(at)navalaviationmuseum(dot)org for more information.
The Nine Veils - Cover God isnt afraid of our questions, as Matthews explains throughout "The Nine Veils." The best antidote to doubt and confusion is knowledge and understanding. Matthews provides you with that  and plenty more. - Billy Hallowell

Nicholas Matthews is a British Christian missionary, currently living in Australia. In The Nine Veils, he examines questions and misconceptions concerning God, our relationship with Him, and our own identities. He invites readers to join him in his journey of discovery.

The book features a foreword by author Billy Hallowell and also includes a Bite-Sized Bible Study Guide to help the reader learn more about the principles Matthews describes in the book.

The book will be released on September 7, 2018 in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats. Available now for pre-order. Learn more at: nineveils.com

About the Author

Originally from the UK, Nicholas Matthews has lived, worked in and travelled throughout Africa, Asia, Europe and the Pacific. In recent years Nicholas has been leading schools where students are encouraged to discover and practice their faith in the classroom and on mission.

With 20 years of full-time volunteer work hes seen first-hand many of the challenges of this world and his faith persuades him there is an answer.

Nicholas now resides in Melbourne, Australia with his wife, Sarah, and two sons. He works full-time for YWAM.
Its an honor to be recognized by the South Florida business community. I am proud of our work at New Horizons and how we help thousands of individuals each year acquire the computer, technical, and business skills needed to reach the next level in their careers."

The South Florida Business Journal (SFBJ) named New Horizons Learning Centers General Manager, Krista Wade, one of 40 of the best and brightest young business professionals under the age of 40. The SFBJs prestigious award recognizes young professionals under 40 years old for outstanding success and significant impact in their communities.

Krista was selected over hundreds of nominees for her success in growing the reach and revenue of New Horizons in South Florida. Her leadership of the four locations of New Horizons Learning Centers South Florida has allowed the company to attract individuals and companies to reach the next level of success through education and training. As a result, thousands of individuals have gained the computer, technical, and business skills needed to reach the next level in their careers.

The company, which has won the South Florida Business Journals Best Places to Work Award" five consecutive years in a row, offers dozens of certification courses in IT, as well as leadership and professional development courses.

Its an honor to be recognized by the South Florida business community, said Krista of her award. I am proud of our work at New Horizons and how we help individuals and companies improve and compete. Honestly, there is nothing more valuable in business than the people employed there. Every team member at New Horizons South Florida is deeply committed to our mission of helping our students achieve success by upgrading their technical and professional skills.

About New Horizons Learning Centers of South Florida

Established in 1997, New Horizons Learning Centers of South Florida is an industry leader in training with learning methods built specifically for end-users, corporations, government, veterans, and individuals. Their depth of training solutions and courses center around IT, Leadership, and Business Management with certified vendors and accreditations, including SHRM, PMP, Microsoft, VMware, CompTIA, Cisco, and ITSP, among others. New Horizons South Florida offers the latest authorized classes delivered by certified instructors committed to helping organizations and individuals upgrade proficiencies and close the skills gap across the entire IT and Business continuum.

Named New Horizons Mega Center of the Year and Best Places to Work by South Florida Business Journal for five years in a row, New Horizons South Florida has locations in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and the Caribbean. For more information, visit our website at https://www.nhflorida.com/.
Tex VerMilyea, Ph.D., HCLD, Ovation Fertilitys Austin Laboratory and Operations Director AI can be a useful pre-screening tool that would allow us to identify and genetically test only those embryos which are viable, with a low likelihood of genetic defects. This can result in significant cost savings for Ovation patients, and also has the potential to improve pregnancy success.

A recent, international collaborative study by U.S.-based Ovation Fertility and Australia-based Life Whisperer suggests that artificial intelligence (AI) may be a valuable tool to accurately detect genetic defects in human embryos. In this study, Life Whisperers new AI technology was used to evaluate thousands of 2D static images of embryos created through past IVF cycles at Ovation Fertility IVF laboratories. When compared to standard embryo morphological grading by highly skilled embryologists, the AI technology showed a 50% improvement in the prediction of successful implantation the critical first stage of a successful pregnancy. This is the first study in the U.S. to successfully apply AI by deep learning through computer vision to embryo selection.

The current gold standard for embryo analysis is preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), in which a few cells are removed from each embryo and sent to a specialized genetics laboratory for next generation sequencing. PGT can accurately detect chromosomal abnormalities, so that only chromosomally normal embryos are chosen for transfer to the patients uterus. Some U.S. fertility practices now make PGT part of their standard IVF protocols, but not all patients elect to have the procedure performed for financial or other reasons. When PGT is not employed, embryologists select which embryo to transfer based on grading systems that rely on visual inspection of embryos under a high-powered microscope. These study results indicate that AI technology may be an effective tool to help embryologists identify key indicators of embryo morphology which may not be detectable by the human eye.

Using the Life Whisperer AI tool, clinicians drag and drop embryo images taken from a standard microscope camera and get an instant report of embryo viability, helping them determine which embryos are good candidates for PGT or are most likely to result in a successful pregnancy without PGT. For this study, Ovation Fertility provided several thousand photos of embryos from completed IVF cycles, taken before biopsy and transfer. Results of the AI analysis of these images were compared to Ovation Fertilitys documented corresponding chromosomal test result or pregnancy outcome for each embryo, along with the morphological grade assigned by the embryologist.

The only way to definitively determine if an embryo has genetic defects is PGT, but it is a costly and invasive method, says Tex VerMilyea, Ph.D., HCLD, Ovation Fertilitys Austin laboratory and operations director. AI can be a useful pre-screening tool that would allow us to identify and genetically test only those embryos which are viable, with a low likelihood of genetic defects. This can result in significant cost savings for Ovation patients, and also has the potential to improve pregnancy success.

While preliminary data from this study is convincing, additional validation with larger data sets is ongoing. Life Whisperer plans to make its AI technology widely available in 2019.

About Ovation Fertility

Ovation Fertility is a national network of reproductive endocrinologists and scientific thought leaders focused on reducing the cost of live birth through more efficient and effective fertility care. Ovation Fertilitys IVF and genetics laboratories and affiliated practices work collaboratively to raise the bar with state-of-the-art, evidence-based fertility services that give hopeful parents the best chance of a successful pregnancy. Physicians partner with Ovation Fertility to offer their patients advanced preimplantation genetic testing. Ovation Fertility also provides donor eggs that come with the worlds first Euploid Embryo Guarantee, as well as secure frozen egg, embryo and sperm storage; consultative services to help IVF laboratories improve quality and performance; and fertility preservation programs that enable more women to freeze their eggs and build future families. Learn more about Ovation Fertilitys vision of a world without infertility at http://www.OvationFertility.com.
2018 Customer Value Leadership Award for WEM Gamification Solutions Noble Systems has hit a home run with the inclusion of Gamification in its WEM portfolio, accelerating its customers ability to both differentiate themselves in the market and increase their bottom line. Past News Releases RSS Noble Systems to Showcase...

Noble Gamification Wins 2018...

Noble Systems EMEA Continues...

Noble Systems Corporation, a global leader in unified contact center technology solutions, has received Frost & Sullivans 2018 Customer Value Leadership Award for Workforce Engagement Management Gamification Solutions. Noble received the award based on its continual focus on providing complementary products that enhance employee engagement among todays workforce, and the companys overall foresight and strength.

The Frost & Sullivan North American Customer Value Leadership Awards are presented to companies that best demonstrate excellence in both customer and business impact, delivering customer value through products and services, offering superior value to customers, and aiding them with increased revenues, profitability, and reduced costs. These two sides work together to make customers feel confident in their products quality and value throughout the life of the product.

Noble Systems offerings for Workforce Engagement Management and Gamification accelerate its customers ability to both differentiate themselves in the market and increase their bottom line. The area of WEM exemplifies how Noble Systems provides significant value to customers, from the companys ShiftTrack WFM solution, which provides many features that take into account worker preferences, to its new Noble Gamification product, which brings customers a wealth of benefits, including exceptional agent and supervisor engagement, cost reduction, quick measurable results, and solid return on investment. Read the full Report to learn more.

We use a number of specific criteria to evaluate award candidates and assess their fit with select best practice criteria, especially noting an organizations ability in three key areas: understanding demand, nurturing the brand, and competitive differentiation of its products and services, said Nancy Jamison, Principal Analyst at Frost & Sullivan. Frost & Sullivan found that Noble Systems excels in many areas, including its brand longevity and breadth of offering, history of design and innovation, and responsiveness to customer needs. When customers purchase Noble products they feel they are buying the most optimal solution that addresses both their unique needs and their unique constraints.

Chris Hodges, SVP sales and marketing at Noble Systems, states, Noble Systems delivers added value for our clients by offering the most complete customer communications platform available from a single vendor, including our patented solutions for omnichannel contact management, workforce engagement and gamification, compliance, and analytics solutions, and the ability to deploy our systems in premise, cloud, or hybrid models without sacrificing features or performance. We are honored to be recognized by Frost & Sullivan for our best-in-market solutions and commitment to building long-term partnerships that exceed our customers expectations.

About Noble Systems

Noble Systems Corporation is a global leader in the customer communications industry, providing innovative solutions for Contact Center, Workforce Engagement, and Analytics technologies. Tens of thousands of agents at 4,000+ client installations worldwide use Noble platforms to manage millions of customer contacts each day. Noble offers a unified suite of inbound, outbound, and omnichannel contact processing, strategy planning, resource management, and compliance tools for companies of all sizes. Our premise, cloud, and innovative premise/cloud hybrid platforms include ACD, predictive dialing, blended processing, recording and monitoring, IVR, messaging, interaction analytics, workforce management, and gamification. With a portfolio of 160 patents and growing, Noble leads the way in pioneering solutions for the contact center market. For more information, contact Lee Allum at 1.888.8NOBLE8 or visit http://www.noblesystems.com.

About Frost & Sullivan

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, enables clients to accelerate growth and achieve best-in-class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined research and best practice models to drive the generation, evaluation and implementation of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages more than 50 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses, and the investment community from 45 offices on six continents. To join our Growth Partnership, please visit http://www.frost.com.
"We seek out tools that we believe will make the most positive impact on our district's learning environment, and Illuminate Education's offerings exceed this need." - Dr. Eric Sipes, NKC Schools executive director of technology

In a move to further its mission of ensuring students are emotionally well and college-and-career ready, North Kansas City School District (NKC Schools) has entered into a three-year partnership with Illuminate Education.

NKC Schools is implementing Illuminate Data & Assessment (DnA) to analyze academic data and eduCLIMBER to manage student behavior data. The combination unifies the district's previous approaches, giving administrators and teachers a holistic view of student achievement and progress.

"We'll do everything possible to support our teachers and kids," said Dr. Eric Sipes, executive director of technology for the district. "We seek out tools that we believe will make the most positive impact on our district's learning environment, and Illuminate Education's offerings exceed this need."

North Kansas City Schools has a history of providing top-of-the-line support to teachers by investing in effective education tools, professional learning and training. Illuminate Education won the contract after an RFP, in part, because of its emphasis on professional learning for teachers. Training to onboard teachers and get them comfortable with the new tools is already underway. To ensure that teachers are fully supported, professional learning days will be ongoing throughout the 2018-19 school year.

"North Kansas City is a savvy district that's known for embracing technology that truly supports teachers and students every day," said Christine Willig, CEO of Illuminate Education. "The district is setting an example not only in the Kansas City area, but nationally as well. Our support team is already blown away by the enthusiasm of administrators and teachers."

Illuminate Education's DnA system provides teachers with one place to seamlessly build and administer assessments, capture and analyze data, and direct students to learning resources to support specific, targeted standards.

The eduCLIMBER platform is a cloud-based data system that increases the efficiency and accuracy of data analysis, helping teachers monitor student progress and compare data across the district. The combination of the DnA and eduCLIMBER support systems will offer a full view of the district, allowing staff to make informed decisions that support learning outcomes. Teachers will be able to collaborate and create effective assessments with Illuminate's simple framework.

About Illuminate Education

Illuminate Education is the leading provider of integrated K-12 technology systems. Illuminate's innovative tools bridge the gap between instruction, assessment, and data analytics, transforming the potential of teaching and learning. With all the data available within a single platform, teachers can assess learning and link to the right resources, while district leaders can receive a holistic view of students. Headquartered in Irvine, California, Illuminate's team of experienced educators and technology specialists serve 20 million students across all 50 states.
Pathways Memory Care at Villa Toscana announces a new, free dementia support group for the community on the first Tuesday of each month, beginning August 7th. Dementia is an emotional roller coaster for families and friends.

Pathways Memory Care at Villa Toscana, an award-winning senior memory care facility, announces a new dementia support group for the community on the first Tuesday of each month, beginning August 7th. The free events will be facilitated by Licensed Master Social Worker, Rob Clark. The groups mission is to support families struggling with the dementia process by providing information, empathy and resources.

Dementia is an emotional roller coaster for families and friends, says Umesh Kant, Regional Director of Business Development at StoneGate Senior Living with Pathways Memory Care. We saw a need for those with questions ranging from financials to legal advice. We want to support them as well as our staff. We are in the business of caring for people - all people.

What: Dementia Support Group

When: Tuesday, Aug. 7, 6 p.m.  7:00 p.m.

Where: Pathways Memory Care at Villa Toscana

2930 Cypress Grove Meadows Drive

Houston, TX 77014

Cost: Free, light dinner will be provided

Please RSVP: Isabel Walczak, Director of Marketing 832-691-8130

The support groups will help people understand how to navigate the steps and processes involved with dementia. It will also address the purpose of grieving and why it is necessary to help find a new normal. The group will also talk about the importance of finding a stable support system to help people navigate through difficult times.

For more information, please visit: http://www.pathwaysmemorycare.com.

About Pathways Memory Care at Villa Toscana:

Pathways Memory Care at Villa Toscana is a state-of-the-art luxury memory care community dedicated to providing highly personalized, unsurpassed care in a therapeutic environment that honors the dignity and individuality of each unique resident. At Pathways, we realize that each resident who requires dementia or Alzheimers care has a unique story, background and set of needs. Pathways recently added unisex (all-female & all-male) secured units to the memory care facility. Our team members provide personalized care daily so that changes in a residents health or behavior are detected early, ensuring the best quality of life and health for each individual resident.

About StoneGate Senior Living:

StoneGate Senior Living is an award-winning, full-spectrum senior care and housing company with 46 properties across Texas, Oklahoma and Colorado. Recently ranked as the nations 31st largest transitional and long-term care company by Provider magazine, StoneGate is a fully-integrated, post-acute health care company, with service lines and business units that offer transitional care, long-term care, assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, wellness, pharmacy, care navigation and post-acute analytical services. For more information, please visit http://www.stonegatesl.com.
PracticeLink Magazine - Summer 2018 Issue This job fair was an excellent opportunity to get your name out there as well as be able to see what is available for you.  Jessica Bartock, D.O.

The new reports should come as no surprise. In 2013, for example, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development released statistics indicating among 28 participating countries, the United States was ranked 24th for the number of physicians per 1,000 people. Of the reporting countries, only Canada, Poland, Mexico, and Korea have fewer physicians per capita.

There are several factors that affect the shortage. Experts point to two trends that have caused the current shortage. Practices have been flooded by aging baby boomers who are living longer and presenting with more complicated health concerns. At the same time, the overall population continues to increase, yet, the number of graduate medical education programs have not increased at the same rate.

According to ACGME, the state of Pennsylvania has the fourth-largest number of residents with more than 7,200 residents and 1,700 fellows for the 2018-2019 academic year. The 313 specialty programs and 403 subspecialty programs rank Pennsylvania third-largest in the nation. Philadelphia area institutions such as UPMC Susquehanna, Temple Health and Penn Medicine will be exhibiting at the career fair alongside other local, regional and national organizations representing more than 20 other states.

Certainly, those in the physician recruitment space can attest to the increasingly difficult job of filling physician vacancies. Physician recruiters from throughout the mid-Atlantic region will be meeting in Philadelphia this week to discuss strategies and tactics in their efforts to address the national physician shortage. The mid-Atlantic Physician Recruiter Association, MAPRA, will also be conducting a physician job fair in conjunction with PracticeLink.com, one of the nations leading physician job boards.

While online services like PracticeLink.com play a significant role in the recruitment of physicians and other healthcare professionals, physician recruiters are forced to compete for talent and engage like marketers to sell their opportunities. The shortage and increased competition has led to healthcare organizations participating in more face-to-face recruitment efforts, such as career fairs and specialty conferences, in an effort to find the brightest candidates to fill their positions. As a result, physicians increasingly cite attending career fairs as a meaningful part of their job search process.

The Philadelphia Physician Career Fair will take place at the Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel, Wednesday, August 8, 2018 from 5 to 8 pm.

PracticeLink Live! Is open to residents and fellows  as well as practicing physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. The casual, family-friendly environment provides an opportunity for physicians and advanced practitioners to connect with recruiters and find the best fit for their first or next practice. Premium food and drinks, along with parking, are available at no charge.

For more information or to register for this free event visit http://info.practicelink.com/careerfair/2018-philadelphia For specific questions, contact Melissa Wickline at melissa.wickline(at)practicelink(dot)com or call 800-776-8383.

About PracticeLink: PracticeLink.com is the most widely used online physician job bank. More than 20,000 physicians and advanced practitioners register with PracticeLink.com each year in their search for a new job, and thousands more search the Job Bank confidentially when looking for a new practice. More than 1,000 recruiters representing more than 5,000 health care facilities nationwide use PracticeLink to recruit physicians and other health care providers.

PracticeLink is headquartered in Hinton, W.Va, and also maintains offices in St. Louis, MO and Louisville, KY.
This years Steering Committee has designed a robust, high-quality program with tracks focused on behavioral health, collaborative care, health IT, payment models, and PCMH transformation.

HMP, a leading healthcare education and events company, and the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving healthcare quality, today announced the 4th Annual Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) Congress will take place September 14-16, 2018 at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, California.

The Patient-Centered Medical Home is a model of care that puts patients at the forefront of care. Research indicates the PCMH model improves care quality, the patient experience, and staff satisfaction while reducing health care costs. NCQAs Patient-Centered Medical Home Recognition Program is the most widely adopted Patient-Centered Medical Home evaluation program in the country. More than 12,000 practices (with more than 60,000 clinicians) are recognized by NCQA.

PCMH Congress is the annual educational gathering for recognized practices, those who are considering recognition, and others interested in patient-centered care. The 3-day meeting attracts nearly 1,000 attendees who will receive tips, tools, and ideas for immediate application through interactive conference sessions tailored to their organizations needs; engage one-on-one with leading PCMH experts who can assist in answering critical questions; and network with peers from around the country who can share insight into common challenges and offer potential solutions.

The 2018 PCMH Steering Committee includes:



Michael S. Barr, MD, MBA, MACP, Executive Vice President of Quality Measurement and Research Group, NCQA

Patricia Marine Barrett, MHSA, PCMH CCE, Vice President of Product Design and Support, NCQA, Washington, DC;

Candace J. Chitty, RN, MBA, CPHQ, PCMH CCE, President, Quality First Healthcare Consulting Inc;

Joseph E. Fojtik, MD, FACP, PCMH CCE, Mercy Health Systems; and Medical Deputy Coordinator, Illinois Department of Finance and Professional Regulations, Chicago, Illinois;

Mina Harkins, MBA, PCMH CCE, Assistant Vice President, Recognition Programs Policy and Resources, NCQA, Washington, DC;

Paul Klintworth, MSPM, HIT, Public Health Analyst, Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, DC; and

James H. T. Tan, MD, MPH, Vice President of Value and Resource Stewardship, Northwest Permanente, PC, Kaiser Permanente, Portland, Oregon

Were very excited about this years Patient-Centered Medical Home Congress, said Tricia Barrett, Vice President of Product Design and Support, NCQA. This years Steering Committee has designed a robust, high-quality program with tracks focused on behavioral health, collaborative care, health IT, payment models, and PCMH transformation. Participants will have the opportunity to learn not only from experts, but also from one another, as they gather as a community to improve care delivery and collaborate as members of the Medical Neighborhood.

Delivering the keynote address on how teamwork impacts patient care is Greg Bell, Founder of Water the Bamboo Center for Leadership. An innovator and keen observer of highly successful leaders and teams, Bell will provide an under-the-hood look at the characteristics of high-performing teams and explore how to build and nurture teams that consistently perform better, innovate more, and achieve collaborative success.

Our goal is to facilitate best practices and practical solutions that attendees can take back to their organizations and implement for immediate improvements to patient care, said Randy Robbin, President of NACCME, the medical education subsidiary of HMP. I believe this years program and particularly, our keynote helped achieve that goal. Gregs highly engaging storytelling, and his ability to masterfully blend insights and encouragement will make for an impactful address to our attendees on the power and potential of effective teamwork.

Also featured on the 2018 agenda is Paul Grundy, MD, MPH, FACOEM, FACPM, the Godfather of the Patient-Centered Medical Home revolution. Dr. Grundy is a recipient of the 2016 Barbara Starfield Primary Care Leadership Award and the 2012 NCQA Quality Award. Dr. Grundy will share valuable insights on the changing healthcare landscape and introduce some of the organizations who are driving this change toward a more patient-centered approach.

Participants in the 2018 PCMH Congress can earn up to 21 CE credits for physicians, pharmacists, and nurses or 15 MOCs for PCMH Certified Content Experts.

For more information, visit pcmhcongress.com.

About HMP

HMP is the force behind Healthcare Made Practical  and is a multichannel leader in healthcare events and education, with a mission to improve patient care. The company produces accredited medical education events and clinically relevant, evidence-based content for the global healthcare community across a range of therapeutic areas. Its brands include Consultant360, the year-round, award-winning platform relied upon by primary care providers and other specialists; Psych Congress, the largest independent mental health meeting in the U.S.; EMS World Expo, North Americas largest EMT and paramedic event; and the Symposium on Advanced Wound Care (SAWC), the largest wound care meeting in the world. For more information, visit hmpglobal.com.

About NCQA

NCQA is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to improving healthcare quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of healthcare organizations. It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance. NCQAs Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) is the most widely used performance measurement tool in healthcare. NCQAs website (ncqa.org) contains information to help consumers, employers, and others make more informed healthcare choices. NCQA can be found online at ncqa.org, on Twitter @ncqa, on Facebook at facebook.com/NCQA.org, and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/ncqa.




Steve Heim

Castanet has received viewer video from Monday's flooding at Big White Fire Hall.

Steve Heim says he lives close to the hall and heard a loud rushing noise Monday morning and when he went to investigate he saw water rushing down the hill and into the Big White Fire Hall.

Big White firefighters had their hands full with flooding for a few hours Monday morning. It appears a water main pipe broke uphill from the Big White Fire Department, causing water to come roaring down the hill and through the main floor of the fire hall.

Big White Deputy Chief, Chris Cormack, says a 12-inch water main burst just after 9:30 a.m. Monday morning, so crews had to scramble to prevent the water from damaging the fire hall. "We had some water come into our bays where we park our trucks, we had to divert some of that water and now we are in the clean-up stage, there is no significant damage."

Heim, tells Castanet, "I live Stonebridge and I could hear water rushing down the side of the mountain so I walked up to see what the situation was and I saw all this water running into the fire hall and they were trying to keep the water out so I helped do some sandbagging."

Heim says he has a place on the water so he is all too familiar with sandbagging and was happy to help.

Cormack says there doesn't appear to be any lasting damage and crews had the situation under control after a couple of hours.
Lemonade Day/Raising Cane's Check Presentation. Steven Gordon, from left, Melissa Carter, Megan Hernandez, Jennifer Anderson, and Todd Graves. Photo Credit: Raising Cane's During the eight years that Raising Cane's has been involved with Lemonade Day, weve seen firsthand how effective this program is in introducing kids to business and entrepreneurship, and I always liked that the program teaches kids to also give back to their communities, said Todd Graves.

Raising Canes Chicken Fingers, the Louisiana-based restaurant company known for its ONE LOVE quality chicken finger meals, turned lemonade into cash for a worthy cause. With the enthusiastic participation of Raising Canes crew members working in over 370 locations in 23 states on April 10 of this year, this entrepreneurial restaurant chain and its loyal, lemonade-loving customers raised $75,000 for Lemonade Day.

Raising Canes Founder and Chief Executive Officer Todd Graves, alongside the companys restaurant support office team, presented the donation check to Lemonade Day National President Steven Gordon in Dallas recently. Graves helped to bring Lemonade Day to Louisiana in 2011. Since then, Raising Canes restaurant operators and crewmembers have been actively involved in supporting and promoting Lemonade Day. Graves and Raising Canes have been supporters of Lemonade Day for more than eight years. Graves was co-founder of Lemonade Day Louisiana in his home state, which to date has had nearly 100,000 kids participate. Since that time, Raising Canes has partnered with several Lemonade Day programs in cities across the country. Earlier this year, Raising Canes announced a national partnership with Lemonade Day to help grow participation and bring Lemonade Day to communities in which it had never been before by providing kids easy access to Lemonade Days digital workbooks, made possible through this unique partnership.

Lemonade Day, a national non-profit youth entrepreneurship program, teaches kids skills that will serve them for life through the experience of starting their own lemonade business. Kids can register for free to participate in Lemonade Day with support from an adult mentor. Lemonade Day entrepreneurs are encouraged to spend some, save some and share some of their lemonade business profits with a cause that matters to them after paying back their investor. Lemonade Day is more than one day in one place  the 2018 Lemonade Season started in April and continues through late summer in the United States and Canada. Lemonade Day has a goal of expanding to 84 licensed markets in 2019, with a five-year goal of securing 250,000 mentors to support young lemonade business owners in 200 licensed markets in North America by 2023.

Raising Canes restaurants donated $1 for every lemonade drink purchased on April 10. The company also placed a mini lemonade stand in participating restaurants with marketing materials about the Lemonade Day fundraiser and prepared an information flyer with instructions for customers to go online and register youth for free to participate in Lemonade Day to give them a taste of the sweet success that comes with owning their own business.

During the eight years that we have been involved with Lemonade Day, weve seen firsthand how effective this program is in introducing kids to business and entrepreneurship, and I always liked that the program teaches kids to also give back to their communities, said Graves. I am thrilled that Canes is now a national partner and can support Lemonade Days great work in teaching tomorrows leaders about financial literacy, youth entrepreneurship and so much more.

Gravess entrepreneurial journey started with operating a lemonade stand in his front yard in Baton Rouge. Now, 35 years later, Graves sells lemonade at more than 380 Raising Canes restaurants around the world. Creating the opportunity for other kids to be inspired by business and igniting a desire to run and own a business is exactly why he is so passionate about Lemonade Day.

Raising Canes is a perfect match for Lemonade Day on many levels. I want to sincerely thank Todd Graves and his entire team and all the Caniacs for supporting Lemonade Day and our mission to equip kids today with skills they can apply in their own careers and business ventures. With this tremendous support and commitment from entrepreneurs like Todd and his entire Raising Canes organization, Lemonade Day is well-equipped to continue making a positive difference for kids, Gordon commented.

Gordon noted that he is especially thankful to Megan Hernandez, brand manager with Raising Canes Chicken Fingers. Gordon credited Hernandez for being instrumental in organizing this inaugural fundraiser with Lemonade Day.

Raising Canes is looking forward to continuing this partnership with Lemonade Day. Our Raising Canes crew members enjoy being part of such an amazing program that teaches kids important business and life skills. We are excited to expand on the success of the 2018 program and are looking forward to helping kids across the country learn about and participate in Lemonade Day in 2019! Hernandez said.

Please visit https://lemonadeday.org/find-your-city for a list of Lemonade Day host cities, towns, and military bases. Please follow this link for photos for the Lemonade Day/Raising Canes check presentation event: https://lemonadeday.app.box.com/s/es3bgmohskdpx09aauwz6dxoay038mzd

ABOUT LEMONADE DAY

Founded in Houston in 2007 by entrepreneur Michael Holthouse and his wife, Lisa, Lemonade Day is a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching every child across North America important business and financial skills that are the key ingredients of entrepreneurship. By learning these skills early in life, children will be better prepared to be successful, financially healthy adults. Through the fun, hands-on Lemonade Day program, kids of kindergarten through fifth grade age are empowered to start their own business  a lemonade stand  and experience earning money, using 100 percent of their profits to spend, save and share based on their own goals.

Lemonade Day has expanded to 72 licensed markets in the United States and Canada and to six U.S. military bases and growing. More than one million children and thousands of adult mentors have participated in Lemonade Day since 2007. Adults can register a child to participate in Lemonade Day and give them a taste of the sweet success that comes with owning their own business. For more information, visit lemonadeday.org/find-your-city.

Connect with Lemonade Day:

Twitter - @LemonadeDay

Facebook - Lemonade Day

LinkedIn - Lemonade Day

ABOUT RAISING CANE'S

Raising Canes is known for its always fresh, never ever frozen chicken fingers, its craveable  some say addictive  secret recipe Canes sauce, crinkle-cut fries, coleslaw, Texas toast, freshly brewed sweet tea and fresh-squeezed lemonade.

Founded by Todd Graves in 1996 and named for his yellow Labrador, Raising Cane, the rapidly growing company was named 2017s fastest-growing chain by Nations Restaurant News, and earned the distinction of being among the Top 3 quick service restaurant chains in the nation for 2017, according to the authoritative Sandelman & Associates Quick-Track study, based on food quality, customer service, cleanliness and other important factors.

Raising Canes has more than 380 restaurants in 24 states, Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates with multiple new restaurants under construction. The company has ONE LOVE  quality chicken finger meals  and is continually recognized for its unique business model and customer satisfaction. Raising Canes vision is to have restaurants all over the world and be the brand for quality chicken finger meals, a great Crew, cool culture and active community involvement. For more information, please visit raisingcanes.com.
By bringing together thought leaders representing the perspectives of academia and industry, we hope to provide greater, more well-rounded insight for the mobility engineering community. - Frank Menchaca, SAE Internationals Chief Product Officer

SAE International invites members of the mobility engineering community to participate in the SAE Additive Manufacturing Webinar: Considerations When Integrating Additive Manufacturing into Aerospace and Ground Vehicle Development and Production Environments on August 16, 2018 at 1:00 PM EST. Moderated by Audra Ziegenfuss (Senior Global Product Manager, SAE International), the in-depth discussion will be led by guest speakers Dr. John Hart (Director, Center for Additive and Digital Advanced Production Technologies (ADAPT) at MIT), Bill Harris (Technical Fellow, Lockheed Martin), and Adam Rivard (Additive Manufacturing Director, LAI International, Inc.), boasting a combined 65+ years of valuable engineering experience, knowledge, and expertise.

The aerospace and ground vehicle mobility industrys trusted source for advanced manufacturing information and resources, SAE International seeks to educate webinar participants about the exciting new technologies surrounding additive manufacturing. Topics to be addressed over the course of the webinar include:



How additive manufacturing is expected to impact the aerospace and automotive industries as the field advances

Risks associated in introducing flight-critical additive manufacturing parts

The anticipated timeline for general acceptance of additive manufacturing parts by aerospace customers

Key business and technical considerations from the OEM perspective related to becoming a supplier of additively manufactured products

Novel additive manufacturing methods translatable to aerospace and automotive

SAE International is looking forward to the additive manufacturing intelligence that Dr. Hart, Mr. Harris, and Mr. Rivard have to share, says Frank Menchaca, SAE Internationals Chief Product Officer. By bringing together thought leaders representing the perspectives of academia and industry, we hope to provide greater, more well-rounded insight for the mobility engineering community.

Dr. John Hart is Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Director of the Laboratory for Manufacturing and Productivity, and Director of the Center for Additive and Digital Advanced Production Technologies (ADAPT) at MIT. Harts research group, the Mechanosynthesis Group, aims to accelerate the science and technology of advanced manufacturing in areas including additive manufacturing, nanostructured materials, and the integration of computation and automation in process discovery. He has co-founded three advanced manufacturing startup companies and launched the worlds first massive open online course on manufacturing processes (MIT 2.008x on edX). Hart has been recognized by prestigious awards from the United States NSF, ONR, AFOSR, DARPA, ASME, and SME; by two R&D 100 awards; and most recently by the MIT Ruth and Joel Spira Award for Distinguished Teaching in Mechanical Engineering and the MIT Keenan Award for Innovation in Undergraduate Education.

Bill Harris is a Lockheed Martin Technical Fellow specializing in Manufacturing Technology. He has 46 years of industry experience, with 34 years served at Sikorsky Aircraft, a Lockheed Martin company. Harris has led domestic and international manufacturing technology programs related to sand casting, friction stir welding, high speed machining, and additive manufacturing. He is a member of the Manufacturing Processes and Technology Committee for the Vertical Flight Society, an instructor for the Sikorsky Helicopter Principles program, and a mentor for the Sikorsky STEM Challenge. He holds a masters degree in management of technology and a Bachelor of Science degree in manufacturing engineering, both from Fairfield University.

Adam Rivard is the Additive Manufacturing Director at LAI International, Inc., the worlds first NADCAP accredited additive manufacturing supplier for aerospace, defense, industrial, and medical applications. In this role, he is responsible for the strategy, execution, and growth of the metal additive manufacturing business. Rivard also serves on the leadership team for the SAE International committee on Additive Manufacturing and is the Chairman of the Processes subcommittee. Prior to LAI, Rivard was the Technology Manager for the Additive Manufacturing Group at Pratt & Whitney, responsible for the identification, development, and validation of new technologies in the additive manufacturing space. He holds a Bachelors of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and an MBA from Indiana University.

To learn more about the SAE Additive Manufacturing Webinar or to register for the webinar:



SAE International is a global association committed to being the ultimate knowledge source for the engineering profession. By uniting over 127,000 engineers and technical experts, we drive knowledge and expertise across a broad spectrum of industries. We act on two priorities: encouraging a lifetime of learning for mobility engineering professionals and setting the standards for industry engineering. We strive for a better world through the work of our charitable arm, the SAE Foundation, which helps fund programs like A World in Motion and the Collegiate Design Series.

http://www.sae.org
On August 21 and 22, Safe Chain will attend the National Pharmacy Purchasing Associations (NPPA) 22nd Annual Conference. Attendance also allows us to showcase our new offerings and raise awareness that we are a great resource in the attendees market.

Safe Chain Solutions, a Benchworks company, has announced it will be attending two upcoming pharmaceutical conferences. Both events give Safe Chain the opportunity to explore and contribute to national innovations in the pharmaceutical industry.

On August 21 and 22, Safe Chain will attend the National Pharmacy Purchasing Associations (NPPA) 22nd Annual Conference. The conference is held each year in Las Vegas. Approximately 300 pharmacy purchasing professionals and GPO executives from across the country and 89-98 exhibiting vendor companies participate in the annual NPPA conference. Safe Chain will be meeting with pharmacy purchasing professionals in all disciplines and work settings to learn and discuss the latest trends in pharmacy purchasing. Safe Chain will be Booth 611.

From October 7 through October 9, Safe Chain will appear at the National Community Pharmacists Associations Annual Convention in Boston. This annual convention serves as a learning event for community pharmacy owners and related team members, offering attendees exclusive access to 30+ hours of education. As a selected vendor, Safe Chain will share their expertise, products, services and technologies with attendees and industry peers from across the country. Safe Chain is Booth 1315.

Safe Chains choice to attend these conferences spurs from a company goal. Safe Chains Managing Partner Patrick Boyd said, We try to attend between four and six conferences annually to give our reps a chance to meet face-to-face with the clients they work with on a daily basis. It also allows us to showcase our new offerings and raise awareness that we are a great resource in the attendees market.

To connect with Safe Chain Solutions at an upcoming conference, look for booth number 611 at the NPPA in August, and booth number 1315 at the NCPA.

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Safe Chain Solutions, a Benchworks company, is a full-service pharmaceutical wholesaler serving a diverse network of healthcare facilities nationwide. Our clients include hospitals, retail pharmacies, surgery centers, urgent care centers, compounding pharmacies, LTC facilities, international research and government-managed facilities, as well as physicians. Safe Chain is a licensed wholesale distributor in 47 states, including controlled substances (schedules II-V) with the DEA. Headquartered in Cambridge, Md., the company has sales offices in Miami and Annapolis, Md., and operates warehouses in Cambridge, Md., Louisville, Ky., and St. George, Utah. For more information, visit SafeChain.com, call 855-437-5727 or email info(at)safechain.com.
Richard A. Stark Im pleased to have the opportunity to lead this innovative technology company which is pioneering minimally invasive cryoablation procedure in the breast cancer market.

BJ Hardman, Chief Executive Officer, today announced the appointment of Richard A. Stark to assume the role of Sanarus Technologies President, effective immediately. Mr. Stark will lead all company operations and will apply his 20+ years of strategic development, marketing and sales experience in medical device toward finding new and innovative ways to advance market adoption, help customers, increase funding activities, and drive product utilization globally.

Im pleased to have the opportunity to lead this innovative technology company which is pioneering a minimally invasive cryoablation procedure in the breast cancer market, said Mr. Stark. I look forward to bringing this safe and effective procedure to patients around the globe.

Mr. Starks recent role as Senior Vice President, General Manager at AngioDynamics, resulted in him being instrumental in the development and commercialization of the companys oncology strategy. From 2008 to 2012, he served as Vice President of Sales and Marketing, General Manager for the companys oncology/surgery division before being promoted in 2012 to Senior Vice President, General Manager. He has extensive experience in shaping corporate strategy and is skilled in all aspects of corporate startup, growth, and acquisition. Prior to his tenure at AngioDynamics, he was Vice President of US Sales for RITA Medical and was instrumental in the sale of the company to AngioDynamics. He has also held field sales positions at Woodside Biomedical and Arrow/Teleflex. Mr. Stark joined the Board of Directors of Sanarus Technologies in 2016, and has worked alongside Dr. Govindarajan Raj Narayanan, Charles Berolzheimer, Lee Story, Matt Nalipinski, Sharon Maher, Heather Simonsen and BJ Hardman.



We are thrilled to have Rick Stark lead the Sanarus Technologies team, said Mrs. Hardman, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman. Rick has years of success in start-ups and large corporations, and we look forward to the leadership he brings as we continue to increase adoption of the Visica 2 Treatment System.



The Visica 2 Treatment System is a minimally invasive alternative to lumpectomy or mastectomy. The patented, FDA-cleared system utilizes extreme cold to immediately kill cancerous tumors in a doctors office. An ultrasound-guided probe is inserted into the tumor under local anesthetic. An ice ball forms concentrically around the tumor, killing it immediately and the clean margins are detected real time via ultrasound. In less than 30 minutes of procedure time, the tumor is completely destroyed with virtually no scarring or cosmetic damage. Compared to lumpectomy or mastectomy, the Visica 2 Treatment System significantly reduces overall healthcare costs associated with operating room based surgical procedures as it negates the need for the use of an operating room, surgical revisions, or breast reconstruction.

About Sanarus Technologies, Inc.

In 2001, the Visica Treatment System was the first system available for cryoablation of breast fibroadenomas. Since then, our systems have been used to successfully treat thousands of patients. The System is FDA-cleared for the ablation of cancerous or malignant tissue and benign tumors. With Sanarus invention of liquid nitrogen-based cryoablation in 2006, the Visica 2 Treatment System has been used to treat cancer in cryoablation-assisted surgeries and cryoablation-only procedures in clinical trials. At Sanarus, we pride ourselves in developing innovative solutions for the nonsurgical treatment of breast tumors. We are a majority woman-owned business, headquartered in Pleasanton, CA, and all our products are manufactured in the USA. Find out more at http://www.sanarus.com.
Reports show that the most visited tourist spots include; the beaches, South Beach, Lincoln Road, Bayside Marketplace, and Downtown Miami

Scott Cooper Miami News investigates Miamis tourism growth trends, concluding that the tourism industry is making a huge comeback. Within the last decade, Miami has suffered from a brief setback due to hurricanes Zika and Irma along with the economic decline of Miamis main travel market, Brazil. In 2017, about 15.9 million people visited Miami, according to Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, an increase of nearly 1 percent over the prior year. This increase has been accredited to a 2.3 percent growth by international tourists. Tourism trends seem to be growing for 2018, although the data will not be in until the end of the year.

Miamis maintaining its long-held international reputation as a fun-in-the-sun tourist destination, with notable growth in its already booming tourism industry. Even with the major decrease in Brazilian tourists, the 2017 tourism has hit record high sales totaling 26 billion dollars. Scott Cooper Miami News reports 2017 received a 2.2 percent leap from the previous year, and although the numbers for this year are not in yet, it is expected to have continued in growth.

This number would come as a surprise to some who note the massive decline in Miamis number one tourist source, Brazil. Brazilian tourism had plummeted by 26 percent down from 2016, and an additional 5 percent in 2017, due to the countries economic crisis. Scott Cooper Miami News found that Brazils decline in tourists was made up for by an increase in international tourists from elsewhere.

Even with the decrease in the Brazilian market, 2017 tourism hit record sales at 26 billion, which was a 2.1 percent increase from 2016. This boom is accounted for by a 2 percent increase in visitors from Columbia, an 8.2 percent increase from Argentina and a 12.5 percent increase by German tourists.

Reports show that the most visited tourist spots include; the beaches, South Beach, Lincoln Road, Bayside Marketplace, and Downtown Miami, Says Scott Cooper. The trends indicate that 2018 will show a growth in Miamis tourism revenue, along with continued tourism from Germany, Argentina, and Colombia.

1 http://partners.miamiandbeaches.com/~/media/files/gmcvb/partners/research%20statistics/2017-gmcvb-annual-report
Brady writes about the imaginative young friends, Allison chose the perfect area for their picnic. This is my favorite spot right here by the creek. They arranged the blanket and basket in the cool shade of an apple tree.

The apples are so big and red! Maddie exclaimed. Lets eat one now! And so they did.

They ran through the trees, pretending they were in the rainforest of South America. Maddie and Allison giggled and screamed, hiding from and playing with imaginary animals. The Amazon was alive and active with anteaters, monkeys, ants, anacondas, and more!

Miss Birdie imagined she was Aerial, a blue macaw. She soared through the bright-green trees of the amazing rainforest.

Look! squealed Maddie. Im swinging in the air with Alex the adorable monkey. Whee! Look at me, as agile as can be!

Cha-cha-cha, sang Allison. Im dancing with Ava the anaconda! Around and around, up and down, she laughed and swayed. South America is such fun!

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Sherri C. Bradys new book is a brilliant way to entertain and encourage imagination in young children while improving their vocabulary and deepening their appreciation for nature and friendship.

This is the first book of a series of twenty-six, each featuring a new adventure focusing on each letter of the alphabet.

View a synopsis of Maddie and Miss Birdie: An Apple Orchard Adventure on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase Maddie and Miss Birdie: An Apple Orchard Adventure at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about Maddie and Miss Birdie: An Apple Orchard Adventure, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.
Dr. Kevin Hogan Welcomes Mt. Pleasant, SC for Tooth Extractions and Dental Implants Whether due to wisdom teeth complications, damaged or broken teeth that are beyond repair or in preparation for dental implants, Dr. Hogan is experienced in evaluating and removing teeth in order to improve overall health.

Although an advocate for saving teeth whenever possible, Dr. Kevin Hogan, a trusted dentist, welcomes new patients in need of a tooth extraction in Mt. Pleasant, SC. Whether due to wisdom teeth complications, damaged or broken teeth that are beyond repair or in preparation for dental implants, Dr. Hogan is experienced in evaluating and removing teeth in order to improve overall health. He encourages patients who may believe they need a tooth removed to visit for a no-hassle consultation.

Whether or not patients have dental fear or anxiety, a tooth extraction in Mt. Pleasant or across the world, is usually associated with pain. Fortunately, Dr. Hogan is skilled in merging modern techniques, advanced technology and sedation dentistry for accurate and comfortable care.

Using 3D imaging technology to capture the precise location of each tooth and surrounding structures, Dr. Hogan meticulously plans each tooth extraction procedure. With decades of experience performing wisdom tooth removals as well as other tooth extractions, Dr. Hogan knows how to anticipate possible complications before they arise. Custom sedation dentistry is also offered at Smiles by Hogan to ensure the entire procedure is as comfortable as possible.

Before beginning treatment, Dr. Hogan captures the current oral health of each patient and their area of difficulty. After a thorough evaluation, Dr. Hogan will do everything possible to save the tooth, however, if a tooth extraction is necessary, he is able to perform it in-office.

To ensure oral health is properly maintained, Dr. Hogan frequently recommends placing dental implants shortly after a tooth is removed. Once a tooth is lost or removed, bone loss begins to occur which could lead to further missing teeth. Dental implants restore a patients complete oral function and health while also creating a seamless and lasting smile.

To receive a tooth extraction in Mt. Pleasant, SC at a comfortable and modern practice, call 843-216-0908 to schedule a consultation. Visit http://www.smilesbyhogan.com to learn more about Dr. Hogan and his skilled and leading care.

About the Dentist

Dr. Kevin Hogan is a general dentist providing individualized care for patients in Mt. Pleasant, SC. Dr. Hogan is a graduate of the Indiana University School of Dentistry and has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education courses to stay contemporary with the latest dental technologies. In addition, he has also completed coursework with the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation and has lectured at the University of North Carolina, Emory University, the Saginaw Valley University and AUA-American University of Antigua on head and neck anatomy and oral pathology. Dr. Hogan is a member of the American Dental Association, International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics, Academy of Laser Dentistry, International Association of Physiologic Aesthetics, Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry, DOCS (the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation), International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the South Carolina Dental Association. He is also a past member of the American Straight Wire Orthodontic Association, Maxillofacial Orthopedic Growth and Development, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Functional Orthodontic Society. He and his team are dedicated to providing exceptional oral care to patients through personalized treatment plans. To learn more about the services offered by Dr. Hogan, please visit his website at http://www.smilesbyhogan.com or call 843-216-0908.
logo "SnapMD offers the best telemedicine platform in the country," Dr. Jonathan Mack, director, health care informatics and nursing informatics programs at University of San Diego.

SnapMD, a full-service enterprise telehealth technology innovator and solutions provider, announced today the introduction of VCMedu, a licensing program for the academic community to launch the Virtual Care Management(VCM) software platform as part of a competency-based telehealth curriculum. The VCM platform digitally simulates all phases of care for a virtualized medical clinic and gives students hands-on experience in the digital exam room in preparation for their role as future medical professionals.

SnapMDs VCM platform is a turnkey telehealth solution with fully integrated clinical capabilities and includes all the features and functions needed to practice any form of medicine suitable for telehealth. Designed specifically for healthcare providers to launch a virtual medical clinic and robust digital exam rooms, the VCM software allows healthcare operators to manage their telehealth service lines and deliver virtual, high-quality and coordinated care across the continuum. Students are able to experience real-time virtual visits with all the tools required for managing and engaging patients during the diagnostic, active treatment and follow-up phases of care.

VCMedu is a subscription licensing program with a simple, flat site-license fee structure. The program is designed to work collaboratively with healthcare training facilities to teach all provider levels the remote care skills required for students to enter professional practice. Additional benefits of the VCMedu program include:



Professional grade HIPAA, HITECH and COPPA-compliant software;

Program availability for the United States, Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia and the Caribbean;

24/7 end-user technology support;

Enterprise licensing to all accredited schools, universities and institutes.

As telemedicine is steadily becoming a standard part of the care delivery toolset, students striving to become healthcare professionals need to be fully prepared to help deliver these types of services. With this top of mind, SnapMD created VCMedu to work hand-in-hand with educational institutions and their telehealth curriculums as they prepare medical students for their careers, said Dave Skibinski, president and CEO of SnapMD. In fact, the recent proposed changes from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services provide an encouraging development on future telehealth reimbursement and the bolstered financial support providers may have as they expand into virtual care.

SnapMD recently announced that the University of San Diego Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science selected the VCM platform as the foundation of its Telehealth and Emerging Technology competency-based telehealth curriculum. According to Dr. Jonathan Mack, director of the health care informatics and nursing informatics programs, "SnapMD offers the best telemedicine platform in the country."

The VCM platform empowers students with hands-on training as they conduct and experience virtual visits, gaining knowledge in telehealth etiquette and professionalism, skills to use remote patient monitoring tools, understanding of privacy/protected health information regulations, experience with interprofessional collaboration for telehealth technologies and more.

For more information on SnapMDs Virtual Care Management platform, visit http://www.snap.md.

About SnapMD

SnapMD offers the leading enterprise-level Virtual Care Management (VCM) telehealth platform. The full-stack software solution enables healthcare providers to engage their patients via a comprehensive, secure, HIPAA/HITECH/COPPA compliant, cloud-based telemedicine platform with powerful back-end systems to manage the digital health care continuum. SnapMD offers the software and services that healthcare providers need to improve access to convenient and effective care. SnapMDs robust, scalable, private-label VCM platform is designed to handle multiple service-lines and can be deployed as a single telehealth platform across the enterprise. For more information, please visit http://www.snap.md.

Media Contact:

Kay Kelly for SnapMD

kay.kelly@svmpr.com

401.490.9700
Francisco de Goya (1746-1828) The Parasol 1777. Oil on canvas  Museo Nacional del Prado

The City of Las Cruces is proud to announce that on Friday, September 7 it is bringing a traveling exhibition from Spains Museo Nacional del Prado in Madrid to downtown Las Cruces, with the collaboration of the American Friends of the Prado Museum, the New Mexico Multi-Cultural Foundation, Visit Las Cruces, the Las Cruces Museum System, the Economic Development Department, and Heritage Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

The free educational outdoor exhibit will display 92 masterpieces from the Prado Museums collection, photographically reproduced at a 1:1 scale. The Prado in Las Cruces, will open at the Art Ramble and remain on display at Plaza Place next to the downtown Plaza de Las Cruces through November 28. The exhibit was listed as one of USA Todays Top 25 Must-See Exhibits in 2017.

Museo Nacional del Prado  the Prado Museum  is one of the worlds most prestigious fine art museums and boasts one of the finest collections of European art originating from the Spanish Royal collection. The collection features artwork of Diego Velazquez, Francisco de Goya, Titian, Rubens, and El Greco among others.

A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 6:30 pm at the Plaza stage to salute the partnership between the Prado Museum, the City of Las Cruces, the American Friends of the Prado Museum, and the New Mexico Multi-Cultural Foundation. The ceremony will also feature a performance by flamenco dancers.

The Las Cruces Museums will be providing free weekly 30-45-minute tours on Tuesday mornings at 10:30 - - am, and on Saturday afternoons at 2:00 pm. The tours will meet at the exhibit on Plaza Place. The theme of the tours will change but may include: Religion, Works of the Spanish Masters, Portraiture, Landscapes/Still Life, The Human Form, Mythology, and Royalty. Additional themes may be added later. Those interested in becoming docents with the Museums are encouraged to contact the Las Cruces Museums at (575) 541-2137 for more information.

The Las Cruces Museums will also be hosting an Educational Summit on September 29; more information is available from the Museum of Art Curator of Education Bryan Lee at (575) 541-2217, or by email at blee(at)las-cruces(dot)org

The outdoor location and free admission allow this traveling exhibit to expose art to new audiences of a wide variety of demographics while continuing the Prados tradition of supporting cultural preservation and the advancement of historical knowledge and art to the people. The City encourages viewers to stop, admire, and reflect on what they see.

About Las Cruces

Nestled in southern New Mexicos Mesilla Valley between the Rio Grande River and Organ Mountains, Las Cruces is quickly becoming a popular southwestern destination, and is now emphasizing its close connections to space travel, including the First Annual Space Festival in April 2018, and a full-size replica of Virgin Galactic SpaceShipTwo on display near City Hall. Las Cruces blends a unique variety of such special events, attractions, culture and historical sites, as well as superb weather, with 350 days of sunshine per year. For more information on all Las Cruces has to offer, contact Visit Las Cruces at (575) 541-2150 or http://www.visitlascruces.com.
HarborChase of Wilmington, a new local senior living community, will officially open its doors this summer. The luxury retirement community will serve the needs of seniors and families in and around the Wilmington area with 64 independent catered living and 32 memory care apartments. Although the senior living community is managed by Harbor Retirement Associates (HRA) from Vero Beach, Florida, the roots of the community go back for decades in the city of Wilmington.

Tim Smick, Chairman and Managing Partner of HRA, has strong personal ties to the area. His father, Reverend Frank Smick, Jr., served as the pastor at Faith Presbyterian Church on Marsh Road from 1970 to 1987. Smick has fond memories of visiting his father and mother, Terry Smick, in Wilmington when he came home from college.

The church was always very welcoming to me when I came to visit, said Smick. I have great memories of all the people there. I used to love the annual Faith Fall Banquet. My Dad would write hilarious plays and everyone had a great time. It was such a special event.

Although he worked in Baltimore, Smick served as an active part of the churchs congregation whenever he was in town visiting his parents. In fact, both of his daughters, Kim and Amy, were baptized there. Although his father passed away in 1996, Smick reflects on his fathers legacy often.

Its hard to believe that its been 22 years, he said. His contribution made a real difference in hundreds of peoples lives.

With such deep ties to the community, Smick loves the idea of creating a senior living community to serve the residents of Wilmington, members of families who he may have crossed paths with at his fathers church years ago.

The whole notion of building a business that could serve some of these people is very gratifying to me and Im excited about the prospect, he said. Its coming full circle for me.

Located on the previous site of Martines Nursery on Shipley Road, HarborChase of Wilmington will feature 64 independent catered living apartments and 32 memory care apartments. Residents will enjoy HRAs signature Life Enrichment program, designed to provide social, devotional, fitness and recreational opportunities that have a positive impact on residents.

I believe were going to bring a new flavor of assisted living and memory care that Wilmington has not seen, said Smick. From the time you enter our front doors, youll notice that this is not your mothers senior living community. Our unit sizes are larger, our focus on wellness is incredible and our dining services are amazing. There is nothing like it in Wilmington.

Located on the previous site of Martines Nursery at 2004 Shipley Road in Wilmington, HarborChase of Wilmington is minutes away from area attractions, shopping and restaurants. The community will feature full-service dining, a beauty salon, 24-hour staff, library, wellness center, cocktail lounges, scheduled transportation daily, housekeeping service, concierge services and multiple recreational rooms and programs. For more information or to schedule a tour, call (772) 494-5377 or visit http://www.hraseniorliving.com.
Photo: Contributed

Police say a Quebec City man who died overnight may have been electrocuted by his own razor.

Local police received a call just after midnight today about an unconscious man in an apartment building.

When they arrived, officers noted the man had suffered burns to his chest.

A police spokeswoman says attempts were made to resuscitate the 25-year-old victim and that paramedics rushed him to hospital where he was declared dead.

Const. Cyndi Pare says a police investigation is underway, as is another led by a coroner.

Pare says investigators haven't ruled out any hypothesis but she would not specify where the man was found in the apartment or who called 911.
Should the Moderate Muslims remain silent when the Radicals have Hijacked Islam for their own destructive political agenda?

The author of the newly released book '7 Maxims for Moderate Muslims' answers that question with an emphatic denial.

No, the Moderates, who form the majority of Muslims, can no longer afford to sit back and remain silent when their identity is being tarnished by the Extremist who want to spread their hateful agenda of Radical Islamic Terrorism. Al Khidr, has proposed 7 Maxims in his new book which expresses what Moderate Muslims can do to eradicate the threat of violent Jihad from the face of our planet. This book provides an insight into the mind of a Moderate Muslim showing why the majority of Muslims are peaceful and how they can answer the Radical Fundamentalist without feeling ashamed of not following Islam perfectly.

Al Khidr is the author of several books on Islam, including 'Freedom from Jihad' , 'Qibla Conspiracy', 'Original Quran' and 'Three Questions that Arabs asked Muhammad' all of which can be downloaded by enrolling in the online course available at https://FreedomFromJihad.com/ or can be read on kindle or in printed book form at amazon.com

Having experienced the process of radicalization first-hand, Al Khidr found freedom from jihad by transforming his fear and hate into gratitude and love. Having studied Islam deeply and realized the oneness of humanity, Al Khidr takes his readers away from Hate, Dogma and Terror towards Non-Violence, Unity and Freedom.

In order to express and preserve our Freedom of Speech, we need more Moderate Muslims like Al Khidr to speak out against Radical Islamic Fundamentalism. This book '7 Maxims for Moderate Muslims' is a bold step in that direction.

This newly released book '7 Maxims for Moderate Muslims' is available for free download to all who get their free certificate from https://FreedomFromJihad.com by answering three yes/no questions to the 'Attitude to Islam' quiz also available from https://FreedomFromJihad.com/quiz.php
Tiffs Treats, the Austin-based company that created the warm cookie delivery concept, teamed up with fellow Texas-based company, Southwest Airlines, to surprise customers traveling on the airlines inaugural flights between Nashville and Atlanta. On Tuesday, August 7th, the airline launched nonstop service between the two southern cities.

To celebrate the launch, Tiffs Treats gifted each passenger on six of the ten flights that day with a box of one dozen warm cookies, in addition to a Tiffs Treats $25 gift card and Tiffs Treats branded products.

Tiffs Treats gave away 4,800 cookies to lucky travelers in the concourses of the two airports, and gifted cookies to more than 800 Southwest employees in Nashville and Atlanta. Over the course of this sweet day, 19,200 Tiffs Treats were passed out to Southwest passengers, employees and other travelers.

Tiffs Treats co-founders Tiffany and Leon Chen flew on one of each of the first flights between the cities, and surprised a Customer on each flight with an additional $500 gift card and box of warm cookies. The brand has applied for the Guinness World Record for the Highest Warm Cookie Delivery.

Both Tiffs Treats and Southwest love to surprise and delight our customers, whether with our cookies, or through Southwests friendly and reliable air service said Tiffany Chen. We both are in the business of offering Hospitality through special moments and are excited to celebrate Southwests new nonstop flights between two of our favorite cities.

Tiffs Treats has six locations in Atlanta and two in Nashville.

Southwest will offer five daily flights between Nashville and Atlanta. The new routes have been long-requested by customers, tourism partners, and business leaders in each community, and Southwest brings its legendary low fares and Hospitality, as well as no bag fees or change fees* to these markets.

*Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances.)

More About Tiffs Treats

Tiffs Treats created the warm cookie delivery concept. Tiffs Treats makes and delivers classic, baked-to-order cookies and brownies straight from the oven to the home or office, WARM, in about an hour. Founded in 1999, what started as two friends baking cookies at University of Texas at Austin to help fellow students get through exams has now grown to 40 stores in Texas, Georgia, and Tennessee, with more than 800 employees, baking more than 100 million cookies since its inception. And the company is consistently focused on giving back: with grand opening fundraisers that fill needs for charities (and hungry bellies for Tiff's Treats fans!), Tiffs Treats has donated $150,000 to worthy causes. For more information or to treat yourself or someone else to bake-to-order warm cookies, please visit http://www.cookiedelivery.com or download the Tiffs Treats mobile app.

More About Southwest Airlines

In its 48th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 57,000 Employees to a Customer base topping 120 million passengers annually, in recent years. Southwest became the nations largest domestic air carrier in 2003 and maintains that ranking based on the U.S. Department of Transportations most recent reporting of domestic originating passengers boarded. During peak travel seasons, Southwest operates more than 4,000 weekday departures among a network of 99 destinations in the United States and 10 additional countries. Southwest has announced its intention to sell tickets in 2018 for service to Hawaii, subject to requisite governmental approvals.
Jovanka Jamie Franco, Trident University There is no better way to achieve your goals than through education. All service members should take advantage of the benefits available to them. - Jovanka Jaime Franco, Trident University, Regional Manager for Strategic Military and Community Relations

Trident University Internationals (Trident) Outreach and Partnerships team has added Jovanka Jaime Franco as Regional Manager for Strategic Military and Community Relations. Jovanka is responsible for military outreach initiatives occurring in the Northeast part of the United States.

Jovanka served for nine years on active duty with the U.S. Marines and is currently a Marine Reservist in Columbia, MD. Roles she has held include Staff Non-Commissioned Officer in charge of the Senate Liaison Office in Washington, DC, Staff Non-Commissioned Officer in charge of the Combat Logistics Regiment 1 at Camp Pendleton in California, and a travel administrator at Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

Jovankas passion for service in all of its forms, as well as her dedication to the men and women who served and have served, make her a perfect addition to the team here at Trident, stated Esmeralda Silva, Trident, Vice President Strategic Initiatives & Government Relations/Compliance.

Jovanka holds a bachelors degree in Psychology from the University of Arizona and an associates degree from Chaminade University in Honolulu, HI. She earned both degrees while serving on active duty.

There is no better way to achieve your goals than through education, said Jovanka Jaime Franco. All service members should take advantage of the benefits available to them.

In her spare time, Jovanka enjoys traveling, being outdoors, and spending time with her family.

About Trident University

Founded in 1998, Trident University International (Trident) is a leading online postsecondary university serving adult learners. Trident uses the EdActive learning approach, which employs case-based learning in an online setting to teach real-world relevant critical thinking skills to enhance the lives and careers of students. Trident offers high-quality bachelors, masters, and doctoral degree programs and certificates, led by a qualified faculty team, over 80% of whom have doctoral degrees. Trident is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and has over 30,000 alumni, including more than 22,000 with a military affiliation. The University has received multiple acknowledgements from Military Times, Victory Medias Military Friendly Schools, and Military Advanced Education & Transition for their dedication to military-affiliated students. Visit http://www.trident.edu, Tridents Facebook page, or call at (855) 290-0290 to learn more about Trident's wide range of educational options.
With the benefit of President Trombleys experience and expertise, we have been able to streamline our administrative systems and allow our gifted and talented staff to return to their classrooms," -Robert Berchem, Co-Chair, Board of Trustees

The University of Bridgeport today announced the creation of a new academic administrative structure with the formation of three colleges: Arts and Sciences; Engineering, Business and Education; and Health Sciences. The current 14 deans and their divisions will be consolidated under three deans reporting to the provost. These three Colleges, each organized under a separate dean, will house the Universitys programs into a streamlined structure that will promote disciplinary equity and enhance the student experience.

Susan Resneck Pierce, author of Governance Reconsidered: How Boards, Presidents, Administrators, and Faculty Can Help Their Colleges Thrive, explained, In recent years, many colleges and universities with financial challenges have focused on reducing expenses without simultaneously committing those resources to their core needs. I am therefore deeply impressed by the commitment of the University of Bridgeports new president, Laura Skandera Trombley, to re-direct the resources saved by an ambitious but much-needed administrative restructuring to enhance the academic programs, contribute to faculty and staff compensation, and increase instructional technology.

The University of Bridgeports president since July, Dr. Laura Skandera Trombley, and the Board of Trustees, announced the formation of the three Colleges, effective immediately, to the University community on Monday. This decision directly addresses the needs of students who are increasingly looking to the University of Bridgeport for career-oriented undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees.

I am very pleased that the University of Bridgeport has taken the lead in reducing administrative ranks and investing in faculty and students, said Laura Trombley, President. Belonging both to the University and their College will create a more intimate space for students to learn, to grow, and begin their careers.

Robert Berchem, Co-Chair, Board of Trustees, remarked on the announcement: With the benefit of President Trombleys experience and expertise, we have been able to streamline our administrative systems and allow our gifted and talented staff to return to their classroomschanges which will provide immediate benefits to both our faculty and our students.

Higher education institutions have been under increasing scrutiny over ballooning bureaucracies that detract from resources that should otherwise be directed toward students and faculty. The University of Bridgeports plan, which directly addresses accreditor recommendations and relieves administrative bloat, simplifies the administrative structure so that academic programs and the student experience will be the core focus.

As a result of this decision, significant cost savings to the University will, over time, be reinvested in Instructional Technology support, salaries and benefits for faculty and staff. The University, which has supported the Connecticut Promise Program for the past three years, will continue to invest in attracting undergraduate and graduate students from the United States and internationally.

Jen Widness, President, Connecticut Conference of Independent Colleges, explains, Higher education is being relied upon more and more by our states employers to train our future workforce while at the same time, families are limited in what theyre able to invest for that degree. On top of that, competition for students is getting tougher as international student enrollment is down and our college-going population shrinks in the northeast. Its a balancing act for schools who need to remain competitive, offer the degrees that are needed, and keep costs down.

About University of Bridgeport

The University of Bridgeport offers career-oriented undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees and award-winning academic programs in a culturally diverse learning environment that prepares graduates for leadership in an increasingly interconnected world. There are 400 full- and part-time faculty members, including Fulbright Scholars, National Science Foundation Fellows, Ford Fellows, and National Endowment for the Humanities Fellows, American Council for Learned Societies Scholars, and Phi Beta Kappa Scholars. The University is independent and non-sectarian. For more information, please visit http://www.bridgeport.edu.
Disney World Scooter Rentals Scootarama scooter rentals for Disney World and Universal Studios.

Navigating Walt Disney World when handicapped is an arduous task. Every aspect, from nding accessible parking to using accessible restrooms can be nerve-racking, to say the least. Many people consider renting a scooter as a solution. Carlos Figueroa, a representative at Scootarama, a scooter rental company based in Orlando, Florida, has some advice to offer for those finding themselves in this situation.

According to Figueroa, many people are unsure of what to look for when renting a Disney World scooter.

At Scootarama, we specialize in mobility solutions due to underlying conditions such as multiple sclerosis, partial paralysis, arthritis or bromyalgia, says Figueroa. Although we primarily focus on mobility solutions for theme parks, you can still use this valuable information if you are disabled, handicapped or disadvantaged while attending large college campuses like the University of Central Florida, which has one of the largest college campuses in America.

Figueroa adds that anyone planning a trip to Orlando should reserve their scooter rental in Orlando well in advance.

Depending on the time of year it will be almost impossible to reserve a scooter rental the same day you arrive at your resort, condo or villa. Thanksgiving through New Years are usually very busy months, so most reputable scooter companies will be out of inventory. June through November are also busy months, but there's a 50% chance you will be able to acquire a same day rental.

January through May are slow months, unless of course theres a major convention in town. Make sure you check the events calendar at the Orange County Convention Center to verify if there are any major conventions during your planned vacation. If so, be sure you reserve your scooter rental for Disney World or Universal studios in advance.

Figueroa has discovered that not all scooter companies are equal in terms of equipment and service. As an example, some companies advertise that they will beat all competitors prices or guaranteed lowest prices, which for Figueroa is usually a huge red ag.

ECVs (Electric Conveyance Vehicles) are expensive when purchased from legitimate manufactures like Pride Mobility because all of their equipment is assembled in the USA which means quality, says Figueroa. The batteries being used to power the equipment is just as important as the equipment. Be sure to ask the company what brand of batteries theyre using to power their mobility scooters. 80% of companies are using cheap batteries manufactured in China, while most reputable companies use Gel Cell batteries by MK that are also made in the USA.

Figueroa recalls seeing countless guests stranded in the theme parks as a result of cheap off- brand model ECVs.

You have to decide if its worth it to save a few dollars per day with an increased likelihood you will incur problems. Remember the old saying you get what you pay for - well it denitely applies to mobility scooter rentals!

Many people are unsure about the difference between an electric scooter and an electric wheelchair. The answer can be complex, depending on the handicap or disability.

The main difference between an electric wheelchair and electric scooter is the fact that an electric wheelchair is operated by a single joystick and does not use a key to operate. The joystick can be installed on the right or left side as some guests suffer from paralysis after a stroke which usually renders one side of the body useless. The electric wheelchair is perfect for the guest who is partially paralyzed, an amputee, or uses an electric wheelchair at their home. An electric scooter utilizes a seat with handle bars and comes in either three-wheel or four-wheel. Some guests prefer the four-wheel because of the illusion that it has more stability. Figueroa personally recommends the three-wheeled scooter because of its zero turning radius.

He explains that there are usually three types of scooter rentals in Orlando:



The lightweight travel scooter is usually a scooter reserved for light use with a weight capacity of up to 250 lbs. This scooter is commonly used for grocery shopping, shopping malls and cruising the neighborhood. It is not recommended for use in theme parks because it also uses a lightweight battery which drastically reduces battery life. The expected battery life on a lightweight scooter is three to five hours depending on the persons weight and the type of battery used.

The standard travel scooter is used by most scooter companies for extensive theme park use. This scooter usually has a weight capacity up to 300 lbs. The batteries range between 12 and 36 amps. 12 amp batteries are usually cheap Chinese batteries and 36 amps are the U-1 gel cell batteries by MK. Travel scooters can also be disassembled into ve pieces and can t into the trunk of a mid-size sedan if the guest is not staying in a Disney or Universal resort. The expected battery life on a standard travel scooter will be 8 to 12 hours, depending on the weight of the passenger.

The heavy duty scooter is primarily used for guests exceeding 300 lbs. Some manufacturers suggest that you could disassemble this type of scooter but Scootarama does not recommend this, as it is considerably heavy even when disassembled. For guests not residing at a Disney hotel or resort, the best way to transport this scooter is with a wheelchair taxi. Twelve volt batteries are used in this scooter with the batteries ranging between 18 to 36 amps. U-1 gel cell MK batteries are recommended for this type of scooter. The expected battery life on a heavy duty scooter will be 6 to 12 hours depending on the weight of the passenger.

About the Company

Orlandos premier scooter rental company, Scootarama has been providing Disney World Scooter Rentals since 2003. The company prides itself on providing great equipment and customer service. Check out their Facebook page and blog.
Dr. Harman and many others consider Dr. Murray Fowler the Father of Zoological Medicine and thus it was a great privilege to be asked to contribute.

Dr. Robert Harman, CEO and founder of VetStem Biopharma, co-authored a chapter about stem cell therapy for zoo animals in Fowlers Zoo and Wild Animal Medicine Current Therapy, Volume 9. Dr. Harman and many others consider Dr. Murray Fowler the Father of Zoological Medicine and thus it was a great privilege to be asked to contribute.

As the first company to provide adipose derived stem cell services to veterinarians across the United States and Canada, over 14,000 animals have been treated with VetStem Regenerative Cell Therapy. In addition to working with numerous equine and small animal veterinarians, Dr. Harman has worked with veterinarians from Zoological Parks, Marine Mammal Parks, and the United States Navy Marine Mammal Program.

Dr. Harman co-authored the chapter entitled Stem Cell Therapy in Zoo Medicine with Dr. Matthew Kinney of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The topics covered include a description of stem cells and their mechanism of action, methods of stem cell collection, and stem cells in clinical medicine and zoo medicine. The chapter concludes that mesenchymal stem cell use in zoological medicine is in its infancy; however, with the combination of basic scientific research, domestic animal and human clinical trials, as well as initial work in zoologic animals there is great hope of broadening the potential applications of stem cell use as a therapeutic modality to improve the health of all animals.

Dr. Harman has been a leader in the field of regenerative medicine for over a decade and presents at both human and animal medicine conferences around the world. He most recently spoke in Costa Rica at the second annual International Regenerative Medicine Conference. He applies his biotechnology and veterinary experience in the clinical application of stem cell therapy for various types of injuries, illnesses, and other healing-promoting applications. Dr. Harman has authored 14 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, including the chapter on stem cell therapy in zoo animals.

About VetStem Biopharma, Inc.

VetStem Biopharma is a veterinarian-lead Company that was formed in 2002 to bring regenerative medicine to the profession. This privately held biopharmaceutical enterprise, based near San Diego (California), currently offers veterinarians an autologous stem cell processing service (from patients own fat tissue) among other regenerative modalities. With a unique expertise acquired over the past 16 years and 14,000 patients treated by veterinarians for joint, tendon or ligament issues, VetStem has made regenerative medicine applications a therapeutic reality beyond the realm of research. The VetStem team is focused on developing new clinically practical and affordable veterinary solutions that leverage the natural restorative abilities present in all living creatures. The Companys stated mission being to extend and enhance the lives of animals by improving the quality of recovery in acute conditions, but also by unlocking ways to slow, stop and ultimately revert the course of chronic diseases. In addition to its own portfolio of patents, VetStem holds exclusive global veterinary licenses to a portfolio of over 70 issued patents in the field of regenerative medicine.
Omni Hotline website '[Omni is] an incredibly useful solution for todays SMEs and entrepreneurs on-the-go, thanks to its host of work oriented functions that easily turn any smartphone into a call centre. We are pleased to partner with Voxox...' -- Praveen Rajan, Digis chief digital officer.

Voxox, innovator in cloud communication solutions for businesses, and Digi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd (Digi), a leading Malaysian carrier part of the Telenor Group, one of the world's largest telecommunications providers, today announced their partnership and first offering together. As part of the agreement, Digi is white labeling Voxox Cloud Phone and is now offering the service in Malaysia under the brand Omni Hotline, complete with Malaysian telephone numbers. This is the first implementation of Voxox Cloud Phone with a foreign carrier. Digi serves 11.7 million Malaysian customers, providing mobile connectivity and internet services.

"97 percent of businesses in Malaysia are SMEs[1], and we are excited to partner with Digi to offer these businesses a simple, convenient way to modernize their business phone communications," said Bryan Hertz, CEO and co-founder of Voxox. "We look forward to working with Digi to further maximize the impact of Omni Hotline in the Malaysian market."

Voxox will host the Omni Hotline service from its Los Angeles and Singapore data centers and will support local billing in Malaysia through a merchant payment gateway integration. Voxox is integrating into Digis network through SIP and SMPP connectivity.

"Our goal is to enable small businesses in Malaysia to access enterprise-level products at an affordable price, Omni being one of those offerings in our suite of digital services. It is an incredibly useful solution for todays SMEs and entrepreneurs on-the-go, thanks to its host of work oriented functions that easily turn any smartphone into a call centre," said Praveen Rajan, Digis chief digital officer. "We are pleased to partner with Voxox to empower small businesses in Malaysia."

Similar to Voxox Cloud Phone, Omni Hotline will enable small businesses to easily obtain local numbers that support unlimited extensions and advanced call routing capabilities. Users can place and receive calls, manage call activity, access features such as voicemail transcription, call recording, device transfer, and much more -- all within a sleek, web-based and mobile user interface. No special equipment or advanced skills are necessary to use the service. Once a Do It Yourself (DIY) set-up is completed online, all that a user needs is a calling device (e.g., mobile or landline phone) to which calls can be routed.

Omni Hotline will be leveraging Voxox's patent-pending breakthrough VoIP codec, a technology used to encode and compress voice signals into digital form for transmission. This is particularly significant for small businesses with a dispersed or traveling workforce, as the codec dramatically improves voice quality in poor bandwidth settings, such as hotels, convention centers, rural locations, etc.

For more information on Voxox, please visit http://www.voxox.com and http://www.cloudphone.com. For more information about Digi, visit digi.my. Omni Hotline can be accessed at omnihotline.my and used throughout Malaysia.

About Voxox

Voxox is an innovator in unified cloud communication solutions for businesses. The foundation of the company's offerings is its award-winning unified communications Platform as a Service, which enables the company and its customers to build powerful, scalable applications and services. For end-users, Voxox provides an extensive suite of carrier-grade business phone solutions, including its flagship business app, Cloud Phone, as well as SIP Trunking, hosted PBX, and a wide array of wholesale services, such as high volume SMS. For service provider partners, Voxox delivers cutting-edge mobile and desktop applications that integrate voice, video, messaging, fax, media sharing and more. Voxox is headquartered in San Diego. For more information, please visit http://www.voxox.com.

About Digi

We are a mobile connectivity and internet services provider enabling 11.8 million Malaysians to get the most benefit out of an increasingly connected world. With a strong legacy of product and service innovation delivered on our advanced 4G+ network, Digi has an ambition to become customers favourite digital partner, providing relevant, personalised and engaging digital products and services that will further enable all Malaysians digital lifestyles. This is because we believe digital communication empowers everyone to improve their lives, build societies and secure a better future for all. Listed on Bursa Malaysia, Digi is part of global telecommunications provider Telenor Group and is a leader in driving progressive and responsible business practices. For more information about Digi, visit http://www.digi.com.my.
YapStone Logo

YapStone, a leading online marketplace payments provider, strengthens its leadership team with the hiring of Jerry Ulrich as it Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining YapStone, Jerry was the CFO of Blackhawk Network Holdings, where he helped grow the company from $100 million to $2 billion in revenues throughout 25 countries. Along the way, he helped lead Blackhawks IPO in 2013 and was a key participant in the companys 20+ acquisitions.

Jerry brings a wealth of public and private company experience across finance, operations, international expansion, corporate development and strategy. Im thrilled to have such a talented, experienced, forward-thinking finance leader join the team, said Tom Villante, Co-Founder and CEO of YapStone.

Im excited to join one of the largest, fastest growing private payment companies in the world. YapStone has a unique combination of sustainable competitive advantages within its verticals and across the payments value chain. I look forward to helping the company scale faster and enhance shareholder value, said Ulrich.

YapStone provides premier end-to-end payment solutions including auto-onboarding, proprietary risk management services, a broad range of payment methods, global pay-outs to merchants, split payments functionality, world-class security, compliance and integrated customer support. YapStone has grown organically over 30 percent per year since the company was founded in 1999 and is looking to accelerate growth as it penetrates further into its existing verticals, expands into new markets, broadens its geographic footprint and aggressively pursues acquisitions.

For more information, visit YapStone.com.

About YapStone

YapStone is a provider of online and mobile payment solutions for global marketplaces, software, and large vertical markets, powering electronic payments for sharing economy marketplaces, such as HomeAway and VRBO, and thousands of apartment and vacation rental companies, homeowners' associations, self-storage companies, and many other markets.

YapStone processes over $18B in payment volume annually and has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list of Fastest-Growing Private Companies for ten consecutive years, as well as San Francisco Bay Area's Best and Brightest Company to Work For by the National Association for Business Resources.

The company has raised over $120 million from investors including Premji Invest, Accel Partners, Meritech Capital and MasterCard. Headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, YapStone has additional offices in Santa Monica, California and Ireland.
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Good Books for Good People, the tag line for Red Chair Presss new trade imprint, One Elm Books, underscores the independent childrens publishers commitment to providing books that inspire young readers to be the best they can be, to bring positive changes to their communities and those around them, and to have fun while learning. With this line, Red Chair expands its reach to older readers, offering single-title intermediate chapter books and middle grade fiction. One Elm launches this month with A Calf Named Brian Higgins: An Adventure in Rural Kenya, a first novel inspired by author Kristen Balls own experiences in Kenya.

Keith Garton, who founded Red Chair Press in 2009 with art director Jeffrey Dinardo, explained that the One Elm imprint will enable the house to provide similarly values-based books to children who have outgrown the companys younger series, including Rocking Chair Kids for ages three to six and Funny Bone Books and LOOK! Books, both aimed at readers ages six through eight. Garton estimates that One Elms list, which (like other Red Chair books) is distributed by Lerner, will add four to six titles annually.

The imprints debut title exemplifies the mission of One Elm, whose name pays homage to the lone treeone of the last surviving American elms in New Englandstanding on a hill in the middle of Egremont, Mass., home to Red Chairs editorial offices. A Calf Named Brian Higgins introduces a 13-year-old American girl who begrudgingly travels with her mother and uncle to rural Kenya, where she gets a harsh wake-up call after befriending people living in dire poverty, enduring starvation and preventable disease.

Ball, a Connecticut middle- and high-school teacher, spent the summer of 2005 in the Kenyan village of Sauri after receiving a scholarship grant. I immediately came to love the residents, who are so very funny, caring, warm, curious, and smart, she said. It was an opportunity that doesnt come to many peopleI was the first Westerner most of the villagers had every seenand it was a truly wonderful cultural exchange. I went there rather arrogantly thinking that I could help them, but in truth we helped each other.

When she returned to her classroom, Ball taught her students about the plight of the people of Sauri, and created lesson plans in various subjects in order to drive home the devastating effects of global poverty. Kids who had always thought that they had no math ability suddenly rose to the occasion when I asked the class to come up with a monetary plan for ending global poverty, she said. They were so eager to contribute their ideas about spending money on things like health services, medical education, and agricultural initiatives. I told them that the only requirement was that their math and spelling be correctand virtually none of their proposals had errors.

Spreading the Word

Eager to share with a broader audience all that she had learned during her time in Kenya, Ball decided to write a novel that was realistic but not overly gloomy. The book is told from the perspective of Hannah, a young visitor to Sauri, named for one of Balls students who inspired her to learn more about ending global poverty and whose father, economist and senior U.N. advisor Jeffrey Sachs, made Balls scholarship to Kenya possible, in support of his work toward sustainable development.

I wanted to reach more young people with my story, she explained. You cant sugarcoat a story about extreme poverty and tie a neat bow around it at the end, but I didnt want to make the novel too sad and overwhelming. I knew the story required a delicate balance to convey the seriousness of the issue while also capturing the beauty and warmth of the people of Sauri. I couldnt be more proud that Keith and the team at Red Chair Press wanted to publish it. It is a dream come true.

For Garton, who had worked with Ball at McGraw-Hill, Prentice Hall, and TIME for Kids, acquiring her novel was an easy call. I was so inspired by the work Kristen did in Kenya, with girls the same age as her heroine, he said. She is a very committed teacher, devoted to service learning and global learning. Ive seen her make a difference in her classroom, and I wanted to bring her story to the trade, school, and library markets, since I know it will make a difference in the lives of readers everywhere.

On the horizon from One Elm Books is Trevor Lee and the Big Uh Oh by Wiley Blevins, illustrated by Marta Kissi, about a boy who will try anything to avoid his biggest fearreading in front of people, due in August 2019. Scheduled for spring 2020 are Roosevelt Banks, Good Kid in Training by Laurie Calkhoven, illustrated by Deb Palen, which tells of a boy who learns that being a good friend is more important than getting a bicycle; and Second Dad Summer, Benjamin Klass debut novel, featuring illustrations by Fian Arroyo, in which a boy discovers the meaning of family when he opens his eyes and his heart to the man in his fathers life.

And scheduled for fall 2020 release is another first novel, Red Dove, Listen to the Wind by Sonia Antaki, illustrated by Andrew Bosley. Set in 1890s Dakota Territory against the backdrop of the Battle of Wounded Knee, the story introduces a 12-year-old girl struggling to find her true place in the world.

Asked if she is working on additional book projects, Ball replied, Since I also had the opportunity to travel to Nepal and Cambodia, I would consider sending Hannah to Southeast Asia in future novels, she said. I have lots of ideas for herbut right now theyre still just swirling around in my head.

A Calf Named Brian Higgins: An Adventure in Rural Kenya by Kristen Ball. Red Chair/One Elm, $16.99 Aug. ISBN 978-1-947159-00-6
Multi-Volume German Novel Sells in France

A 1,000-page novel called On the Edge of the World Man Sits and Laughs, by Phillip Weiss, has sold to Seuil for French rights. Rights to the tome, which will be published in five volumes next month in the author's native Germany, is controlled by Suhrkamp Verlag. Each volume of the novel, about a man's search for belonging, is a standalone work with its own narrative style; the volumes range from diary-type entries to graphic fiction.

Italian Author Moccia Breaks Into U.S. Market

Italian author Federico Moccia, who has been published in 15 languages but never in English, sold his Three Meters Above Heaven trilogy to Grand Central Publishing. The books were acquired, at auction, for world English rights. Pontas Literary & Film Agency controls all rights to the books, which have been published in Italy over the course of 25 years; the first book in the series was released in 1992, while the third book was published in 2017. The trilogy follows the love affair between Babi, the quintessential perfect daughter, and Step, who comes from a violent world.

Flemish Debut Novel Sells in Germany

North by Sien Volders, which was originally published by Hollands Diep in the Netherlands, has sold to Germany's Residenz Verlag. Hollands Diep originally published the novel in November 2017. The 2 Seas Agency represents world translation rights on behalf of the publisher. Set in the early 1980's in North Canada, the novel follows two women whose paths cross with two men.
On the morning of August 7, 1998, at 10:30 am in Kenya and 10:40 am in Tanzania, the two countries came face to face with the ugly face of terrorism and the world was introduced to the striking image of Osama bin Laden.

The City in the Sun and the House of Peace were for days engulfed in heavy dark clouds of smoke and chaos after terrorists launched twin bomb blast attacks at the US embassies in Nairobi and Dar es salaam which left 224 people dead and more than 5,000 wounded.

Twelve of the people killed in Nairobi were Americans with terrorist group al Qaeda claiming responsibility.

According to "The Looming Tower", a Pulitzer Prize-winning book on the rise of Al-Qaeda, bin Laden gave various reasons for targeting the embassies, such as the deployment of American troops to Somalia and a US plan to partition Sudan, where he had lived for five years until being expelled in 1996.

Here are 7 steps the US immediately took after the Nairobi-Dar es salaam twin bomb blast attack.

Also read: 12 unforgettable photos of the August 7 bomb attack that Kenyans will always remember

August 7, 1998

The US is shocked and condemns the twin bomb blast attacks at US embassy in Nairobi and Dar es salaam which left 224 people dead and more than 5,000 wounded and vows it will not rest until all the terrorists involved are arrested and severely punished.

August 20, 1998

Thirteen days after the bomb blast, the United States launched cruise missiles at suspected terrorists targets in Afghanistan and Sudan, in retaliation for the embassy bombings.

President Bill Clinton said the US strikes against terrorist bases in Afghanistan and a facility in Sudan are part of "a long, ongoing struggle between freedom and fanaticism."

August 27, 1998

US officials charge Yemeni Citizen Mohamed Rashed Daoud Al-Owhali with 12 counts of murder, one count of conspiracy to commit murder, and one count of conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction in connection with the embassy bombing in Kenya.

August 28, 1998

US officials charge Mohammed Saddiq Odeh with 12 counts of murder, one count of conspiracy to commit murder, and one count of conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction.

September 16, 1998

Mamdouh Mahmud Salim, reportedly a founding member of al Qaeda, is arrested in Munich, Germany. He is later extradited to the United States and charged in the embassy bombings. As of 2018, he is still awaiting trial.

September 18, 1998

Wadih El Hage, a US citizen from Arlington, Texas is arrested and held without bail in New York.

He is the fourth person so far, and the only US citizen, to face charges in connection with the August 7 blasts.

Federal officials claimed El Hage who lived in Kenya from 1994 until 1997 before returning to the US, was once served as the personal secretary for Osama bin Laden and believe he masterminded the bomb blast attacks.

November 4, 1998

US officials indict Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda military chief Muhammad Atef on 224 counts of murder for the Nairobi and Dar es salaam US embassy for the embassy bombings.
In an interview on Kumasi-based Luv FM, the 2015 contestant claimed that the employee whom she did not know came to her and demanded sex to her get into the pageant.

"I was actually didn't pick at the Kumasi audition and I had to talk to one of the judges ,so that is when the problem started, the judge told me he is going to help me train so I pick a form for the Accra audition and indirectly they hook me up with someone and the person they link me too asked me to come to his house and I didn't go so he freaked out on me", she said.
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This list contains information about celebrity fashion lines, loosely ranked by fame and popularity. Several famous actors, models and musicians have their own fashion lines. Some of these celebrities teamed up with famous designers while others are the creative directors for their companies.

Pulse.com.gh brings you 'all' the Ghanaian celebrity clothing lines.

1. Sark Collection

Ghana's acclaimed fastest rapper Sarkodie launched his 'Sark' clothing line on Saturday 27 April at the Aphrodisiac Nite Club in Accra. His collection ranged from caps, sneakers, belts, shirts and many more. It 'was' entirely urban.

2. Black Avenue Clothing

Artiste D-black was the brain behind this collection. The line was created with the view to designing comfortable and affordable high quality street gear for the young and trendy who have embraced the rappers style of hip-hop/hip-life.

3. 1957

Nineteen57, Ghanas leading male clothing line owned by Fashionista Kofi Okyere Darko. President Rawlings, late President Atta Mills, former Black Stars skipper Stephen Appiah, Michael Essien, Emmanuel Adebayor, Jamaican Reggae Star Buju Banton and International Gospel Star Sonnie Badu are amongst a tall list of personalities who are clients of KODs clothing line.

4. Kokui

TV presenter Kokui Selormey has launched her fashion line called Kokui. The fashion line which caters for plus size women makes use of Made in Ghana fabrics, Ghanaian brands and artisans as well as authentic materials.

5. J'Melo

Ghanaian actor John Dumelo launched his fashion brand, J-Melo somewhere in December 2011.Although the initial line that was outdoored included jewelry, hair pieces, hand bags,casual African wears and African print boxer shots, the actor has now added sweat apparels to the collection.

6.Konfidence

Former BBA housmate, Confidence Haugen is also the owner of Konfidence fashion accessories brand. The label was founded on the ideals of designing a sophisticated line of shoes,bags accessories.

7. Meridian clothing

Mugeez of R2bee is he owner of Meridian Clothing. Mugeez Meridian clothing aims to reflect true Ghanaian lifestyle with fine craftsmanship and the uh highest quality of leather behind every pair.

8. PDO

Prince David Osei is the creative behind the PDO clothing line. The collection has very creative couture that has had little impact locally.

9. FM
According to the BoG, this is in breach of section 6(1) of the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930).

READ ALSO: NIA contract staff threaten strike over allowances

The notice said that Menzgold is not licensed to receive money and pay dividends to clients.

The Bank of Ghana wishes to reiterate that Menzgold Ghana Limited is not licensed and has no authority to engage in the solicitation, receipt of money or investments and the payment of dividends or returns to its clients.

The Bank of Ghana is in discussions with other relevant regulatory authorities towards the taking of appropriate action against the company, it added.

This is not the first time the BoG is issuing a warning to the general public on this matter. The Central Bank and Civil Society Organisations have said this several times.

Meanwhile, the BoG said that it will not be held responsible if there is any loss of investment.
This was a response to a statement issued in some newspapers by the BoG on Monday, August 6, 2018, cautioning the general public against depositing money at Menzgold.

In a tweet, Nana Appiah Mensah accused BoG of being propagandist.

Todays joke: Bank of Ghana, so now you dey do propaganda? I beg paa "Tell Ghanaians exactly what happened with the 5 or so collapsed banks you duly licensed & supervised for years. Please don't attempt to use our dear Menzgold to cover up. I beg make we think!

The Bank of Ghana has reiterated its caution to the general public to desist from saving or investing money at Menzgold Ghana Company Limited.

In a notice issued and signed by the secretary of the Central bank Mrs Caroline Otoo, it stated that despite the several cautions to Menzgold Ghana to desist from solicitation, receipt of money and the payment of dividends to its clients, the company persists in its deposit-taking activity.

The notice said that Menzgold is not licensed to receive money and pay dividends to clients.

Meanwhile, the BoG said that it will not be held responsible if there is any loss of investment.
Photo: Contributed

Interior Health has announced its new CEO.

Susan Brown will step into the role effective Oct. 29.

Following Chris Mazurkewich's announcement earlier this year of his intention to retire at the end of October, IH conducted an extensive search, and found Brown already within the organization.

With an in-depth knowledge of Interior Health and a deeply rooted commitment to patient- and family-centred care, Ms. Brown has the experience and broad skillset required to lead the health authority in its efforts to improve patient care in communities across the Interior, Health Minister Adrian Dix state in press statement.

Brown has been a senior executive at IH since 2011, when she accepted the role of vice-president of tertiary services. Within eight months, her position expanded to leadership of all acute services, and in 2015 she became IHs vice-president and chief operating officer, hospitals and communities.

She has worked with staff and physician teams across IH, leading clinical services at its 22 hospitals and in communities across the region.

Before coming to IH, she was executive director of Fraser Health's medicine program, as well as having oversight over health-care operations at Peace Arch Hospital and in White Rock. She is a Certified Health Executive and holds a Master of Health Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and has worked for over 30 years in health care in Canada and the United Kingdom.

Susan has the strategic insight and knowledge of health care that we need in our next CEO. She has led significant initiatives to make team-based care more available to patients, which contributes to improved health outcomes across IH. What really made an impression on our board as we proceeded through the executive search, is her strong commitment to relationships with patients, families, staff and physicians, volunteers, local and regional leaders, foundations and auxiliaries, and of course our many system partners, said board chair Dr. Doug Cochrane.
The accused, Isaac Nkansah, is allegedly to have committed this crime while high on the dreaded Tramadol drug.

Narrating the incident, Nkansah allegedly came home from town and found the sister deeply asleep. The suspect took advantage of the situation and had sex with the victim.

READ ALSO: Woman found with wee and Tramadol jailed 10 years in Tamale
They were grabbed deep in the Oda Forest Reserve near Asante Bekwai mining.

They had excavators that they were using to cut down trees to pave ways for their mining activities.

These foreigners were brought here by government officials for reclamation exercise, but we the residents here know there has never been any mining activity inside the Oda Forest reserve. You have seen the pictures yourself is this a reclamation site?", one resident said.

We have done our possible best to know those behind this particular mining site but any time you approach the Chinese, they show you government official contract. Now they have been arrested by the joint forestry and military task force trust me the police will struggle to prosecute them because the powerful hands behind their work is above Bekwai police command, another resident said.
Gorden Kusier, one of the community health nurses said she was recently attacked by armed robbers, alleged to be fulani herdsmen.

Narrating her ordeal to Accra-based Starr FM, he said "On Tuesday in the evening around 7am I was coming from Akaten to Assesewa and we were crossed by the armed robbers so there was a whole lot of people they wounded, there was a pastor going for all-night, all of them were crossed and wounded. My laptop, three android phones, Ghc950 and all my documents were taken away by the robbers."

READ MORE: Police arrests 2 Fulani highway robbers

He added: "At times we have emergency that we are supposed to take them from the health center to the District Hospital and now it has even put fear in the staff even to move out in the night to attend cases, because of the armed robbery cases. The PA there says without somebody to guard her, she will not wake up at night to attend to cases."

The nurses operate at the Akaten area. The said robbery on the highway on the Akaten road has become a major problem which has driven away many market women from trading in the area.
The reshuffle is expected to reduce the record-setting number of ministers from 110 to be below 100, sources at the Presidency have said.

The President set a record last year by naming the biggest ministerial contingent Ghana has ever seen with the appointment of 110 ministers and deputies.

This move drew hue and cry from Ghanaians about the elephant-size of the government and how it will be a drain on the national coffers.

The President, according to sources, is finally expected to heed to the calls reduce the government and he is expected to boot out some redundant Deputy Ministers as well as some cabinet Ministers.

Just yesterday, Akufo-Addo sacked the Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko for his role in the hugely unpopular re-negotiated Ameri deal.
She said that statement is just to save face for the President and that he was aware of the deal.

Embarrassed, called out, and desperately trying to cover up, the President, true to his family and friends nature, is using his nephew to feign ignorance and claim he was misled. But was he? How was he misled? How could he even have been misled? How would he have had the executive order signed if indeed he was misled? Is that how he operates at the presidency? she queried.

It is emerging that President Akufo-Addo was misled into granting executive approval for the deal under the guise of there being an urgent need to have a bill laid in Parliament before its rising, The Statesman reported.
He said the in the likely event that the NDC elects John Mahama to contest on their ticket in 2020, it is a cause for joy for Akufo-Addo and the NPP.

Now that Mahama is coming as NDC flag bearer or Sylvester Mensah or Prof. Joshua Alabi or Dr. Spio Ekow Garbrah, I dont think that the NPP should be distracted at all", he said.

"They shouldnt panic or shake at all. The NPP as a party with Nana Addo are doing well, honestly. There may be one or two mistakes somewhere because it is a human institution", he added.

Obiri Boahen also commented on the recent controversies that have engulfed the Nana Addo government.

"At one corner, you hear that the President said I was misled yes, it is a human institution. At another point you will hear When you are doing politics, you should eliminate ourselves from a certain position. They [NPP] should just allow the opposition to continue to air their views but they shouldnt get distracted at all. They should stay focused on the good work they are doing, he stressed.
They said this amid petitioning the Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu to investigate Charlotte Osei.

The petition for the Special Prosecutors Office to institute criminal investigations included the contract given to Aerovote Limited to print pink sheets for the 2016 general elections; the request for a new EC head office building from the Mahama administration, which she went ahead to spend the taxpayers money to partition; her position at Ghana Re-Insurance; as well as a contract awarded to Superlock Technology Limited (STL).

Other issues in the petition included the contract to construct pre-fabricated offices for the commission, a contract to another company called Dreamoval, another one to Quazar Limited, which were all captured in the report of the Chief Justices five-member committee that recommended the dismissal of the chairperson of the EC.

The petitioners claimed "Mrs. Osei owns a private law firm  Prime Attorneys. The firm had a client called Aerovote Limited. When she was EC Chair, Mrs. Osei and her firm, Prime Attorneys, communicated with and gave information about how to bid for printing contract at the EC to Aerovote Limited, which was not even a registered contractor of the commission even before the processes for the bids were put together. Aerovote was eventually awarded the contract."

The petitioners, "Mrs. Osei, without recourse to the commission, and without seeking approval of the commissioners, requested a new office building for the commission. Even though the commission was never given any proper land documents transferring ownership or use of the building to the commission, Mrs. Osei instructed the spending of almost GH154,000,000 of the commissions money in the internal partitioning of the building alone, adding to date, the ownership of the building has not been ascertained and the commission cannot move into the building. It is a clear case of causing financial loss to the state."

One of the petitioners, Forson Ampofo in an interview on Accra-based Kasapa FM said they're only seeking the interest of Ghana.

READ ALSO: Charlotte Osei dragged to Special Prosecutor for causing financial loss

He added that they petitioned Martin Amidu to investigate Charlotte Osei to cough the money embezzled.
The traditional caste system

Dont get all weird up when someone treats you like a commoner in Ghana. Despite all the modernity, Ghanaians still act towards you according to your social status. Divided into royals, commoners and slaves, this traditional stratification is still recognized and upheld. Royals a little subtle and slaves a lot more subtle.

Twi, the cheif communicator

If you are thinking of visiting Ghana, try taking Twi lessons soonest. Interestingly, after its official language, English, the Akan language is the most popularly used means of communicating in the country. Nearly 67.1% of its people speak the Akan language, which is weird considering the fact that its a multi-ethnic state.

Gateway to freedom

Hello, welcome to the Pacesetters country. Yep, we set the pace for independence amongst our comrades. Ghana was the first country in West Africa to gain independence from their colonial masters, the British. The weird fact about Ghana is independence was gain by a group of black people, the British never thought could come together to achieve anything. Well done, freedom fighters. Ayeekoo!

True or not?

As weird as this fact about Ghana may sound, it is believed to be true. Most Ghanaians believe that southerners or those that live in the southern part of the country are richer than those living up in the north. Most arguments are based around the fact that most developmental projects are undertaken in the south. But as to if that makes their streets lined with gold, is still up for debate.

Hail, King Meko

Anytime, you visit a local chop bar, please be careful when requesting for your food to be spicy, because you may discover this weird fact about Ghanaians the unpleasant way. When a Ghanaian says spicy, we mean add hot pepper (m3ko) to it. Most dishes are spiced with mainly with chillies/red peppers. Forget all the peppercorns, turmeric and what notsits red chilies all the way.

The Cedi lives on...

History has it that, formerly cowries (sea shells) were used as currency in Ghana. And the weird fact about Ghana is even though we decided to modernize, we just couldnt help but still keep a piece of our culture. So we named our paper currency after our cowries. Just in case a time traveller from the past decides to visit, he will fit right in the economy.

Peace is our Hallmark

Ranked as 40 on the Global Peace Index, Ghana is known as the most peaceful country in Africa. Our 7 weird fact about Ghana is true, despite the existence of over 90 different ethnic groups confined in the same space. I believe this attributes to the high level of tolerance and hospitality that Ghanaians are known for.

Balance is everything!

Everyone in Ghana seems to know how to balance things properly on their heads whilst walking. From the kayayo at the market to the teenager walking from the borehole or the farmer carrying firewood. It wouldnt be weird if we held a tightrope competition in Ghana, or what do you think?

The love for the dead

Funerals are more of a social function than merely a time to mourn. Dont be surprised when the grieving company turns into a happy party. For them the more, the merrier. Kind of weird but thats Ghana for you.

Verified
East Africa most populous nation with close to sixty million people is looking for a buyer of its natural gas reserves of more than 57-trillion cubic feet.

Tanzania wants to build a pipeline to pump natural gas to neighbouring Uganda, as the two nations expand and solidify their energy cooperation.

State-run Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) said on Monday that the pipeline would start from its capital Dar es Salaam, then pass through Tanga port on the Indian Ocean and to Mwanza, a port on Lake Victoria before crossing the border to Uganda.

TPDC said it was looking to hire a contractor to conduct a feasibility study to determine current and future natural gas demand "by identifying all potential customers". It did not give an estimated volume.

The study would also establish the most economically viable route for the pipeline, the state agency added.

Tanzania boasts estimated recoverable natural gas reserves of more than 57-trillion cubic feet (tcf), mostly in offshore fields in the south of the country.

Tanzania is also among nine African countries that are set to benefit from an ambitious US-led initiative to invest in gas-powered power plants in Africa at a whopping cost of US $175 billion under an initiative known as the Gas Roadmap for sub-Saharan Africa.

Through the imitative, US companies plan to add some 16,000MW of gas-fired power in nine African countries by 2030.

According to the Tanzanias power master plan, gas-fired power plant capacity is anticipated to grow from 1,501MW as of 2015 to 4,915MW in 2040.

Tanzanias current power generation capacity is 1,310.7MW of which hydro-generated power is 561.843 MW and thermal gas and diesel generation is 748.876MW.

The Tanzania-Uganda natural gas pipeline comes against the backdrop of a similar infrastructure grand project the two countries agreed to undertook a while back.
The fraud and forgeries related cases are contained in the banks financial returns submitted to the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE.

For the 6 month period ended June 2018, the bank recorded 44 ATM/Electronic fraud, 9 fraud cases were perpetrated by the bank's staff, 8 impersonation account, 45, stolen and forged instrument, 2 internet banking fraud while others fraudulent activities account for 43.

Out of the 161 fraud and forgeries returns, the bank lost the sum of N2.9 million compared to 10 million lost in the same period in 2017 from 139 cases.

Other key highlights from the bank's financial statement:

- Gross earnings declined by 15.3% to N322.2 billion as against N380.4 billion.

- Profit after tax rose to N81.7 billion in first half 2018 as against N75.3 billion recorded in 2017.

- Profit before tax rose from N92.2 billion to N107.4 billion.

The board of directors of the bank approved N9.42 billion to shareholders as interim dividend for the half-year ended June 30, 2018, compared to N7.5 billion declared in the same period of 2017.

The breakdown indicates a dividend per share of 30 kobos, 20% above 25 kobos paid as interim dividend for the first half of 2017.
Photo: The Canadian Press

Residents are frustrated they didn't receive emergency alerts on their cellphones before a strong tornado tore through a small Manitoba community.

The EF4 tornado moved through the Rural Municipality of Alonsa on Friday night, killing a 77-year-old man and leaving a trail of destroyed homes and cottages.

Pamela Sul, chief administrative officer for the rural municipality near Lake Manitoba, says she saw a tornado warning on television and was able to flee her home.

But she didn't have cell coverage to receive a text-message alert on her phone or even call her neighbours to warn them about the incoming storm.

She says the area always had limited service, but since Bell MTS did upgrades in June, residents have lost most of the coverage they had.

She says many people are scared and they are disappointed that it took a deadly tornado to show that it is a problem.
Before his termination, Lawal Daura is a key member and kinsman of President Muhammadu Buhari, who is also from Daura, Katsina State. Many believed he is one of the untouchable personalities in the federal cabinet.

Members and lawmakers of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, were blocked from gaining access to the National Assembly complex on Tuesday morning by operatives of the Department of State Services on an 'order from above'.

In various videos posted online, security agents, some of whom were masked mounted the entrance to the National Assembly complex though they later allowed lawmakers to enter but continued to bar government agents and journalists.

But Osinbajo who was in Lagos, Nigeria's south-western state, ordered the termination of the appointment of the DG of the DSS.

The acting president also directed him to hand over to the most senior officer of the State Security Service until further notice.

Party politics ahead of 2019 general election

Weeks ago, Nigeria's Senate President, Bukola Saraki and his House of Representatives counterpart, Yakubu Dogara defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

With their defections, some lawmakers also quit the President Muhammadu Buharis ruling party and joined the main opposition.

The defection is part of calculations for the 2019 general elections where President Muhammadu Buhari is also in the race for another four-year term in office.
Pulse earlier reported that the NUC suspended Law, Dentistry, Fine Arts, Botany and Family Nutrition at the university.

Following the suspension of the courses, the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board JAMB urged prospective students who selected any of the courses in the just-concluded Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) to change their course or institution.

However, the university in a statement sent to Pulse by a student Ambassador said the school is working to address the issues raised by the NUC.

The statement signed by the University Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju, reads:

The Management of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is aware of the directive by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) that the 2018/2019 candidates who applied to study Law, Dentistry, Fine and Applied Arts, Botany and Family Nutrition and Consumer Sciences should either change course or university, due to non-accreditation by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

The general accreditation exercise was conducted across all universities in December, 2017 and the non-accreditation of some programmes cut across all universities and is not peculiar to OAU.

ALSO READ: NYSC says corps members allowance increase is a rumour

There are 106 programmes in the University of which the five mentioned above have issues with accreditation. Although all these programmes actually had interim status during the last exercise, they were denied accreditation because of the existing NUC regulation which does not allow for back to back interim status.

The University Management is working assiduously to address the issues raised by the NUC. It, therefore, has no doubt that the affected programmes will be restored hopefully in the forthcoming accreditation exercise slated for November 2018. We hereby use this medium to officially appreciate the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) for the prompt release of funds to upgrade the existing structures and facilities in the University.

We appreciate the concern of all stakeholders, particularly parents/guardians and prospective students on this development and plead for their understanding.

The Management will continue to do all within its power to uphold and build upon the academic excellence for which the University is known.

OAU is the best university in South-West

However, OAU recently emerged as the best university in South-West Nigeria.

The University won the award at South-West Nigeria Education Awards, organised by Excellent Media Group and held at the University of Ibadan.
Spoiler Warning

This article has spoilers, so you should only read if you've seen the latest episode of the legal drama series. Catch up on our review of episode four here.

Here we go:

1. Ben Castle's girlfriend visits from London

We are introduced to Ben's girlfriend from London, Jessica, who is actually quite extra and a chatterbox.

In the first few minutes of meeting her boyfriend's mum, she talks about the weather in Lagos and her parents opposing her trip because of kidnappers in Nigeria. She even talks about her ex-boyfriend.

And as you would expect, Remi isn't fond of her.

2. The lawyers of Castle and Castle take up interesting cases

In episode four and five, there are no cases created for the sole purpose of eliciting laughter. This time, the lawyers of take up interesting cases. We even get to see them in a court.

In episode four, Andrew (Okey Uzoeshi) needs a court injunction to stop his side-chick, Ayanda, from leaving Nigeria for South Africa with their son.

She was his side-chick for a decade, patiently waiting for him to divorce his wife as he had promised. Andrew tells his lawyers - Malik and Nneka - that while he hates his marriage, he loves his wife and kids, and can't divorce them for Ayanda, who he is, however, interested in marrying as a second wife.

After his court injunction is denied, he becomes desperate and kidnaps his son.

3. The Amina case turns out to be a good for the firm

Considering the attention this particular pro-bono case has received so far, we were hoping to see somewhat of an exchange in a courtroom. Nevertheless, we are excited that Tega got to win this case. Perhaps, grandpa would give him the respect he deserves next time he strolls in for a visit.

The case and Tega's victory is getting so much local and international attention, and suddenly, Remi, who was opposed to the idea of a pro-bono case, is giving out comments to journalists, expressing her disappointment at the injustice being meted out on 'the poor girl.'

After a local print media publishes a report that describes Nike as Tega's wife, Remi sets up a press conference, which she hopes would help the media 'get their facts right.'

Nike doesn't seem too pleased. She is sad that Remi would take the shine from herself and Tega. And take the shine did she...

Not that it's a surprise, but Remco won't be an easy client for Castle and Castle. In the last episode, a former staff sues the airline for wrongful dismissal.

When Remi questions Otumba about it, he isn't bothered. According to him, he needed to make an example out of the former employee.

As more reports of unlawful dismissal come up, Otumba asks Remi to make it disappear, as he doesn't want to go to court or get the press involved.

He also expresses his disappointment at Remi, saying that her father - who we've happily missed these past two weeks - had described her as the best, but there she is, crying at the first sign of a big fight.

5. Is there more between Mike and Remi?

Turns out that Mike is the lawyer representing the wrongfully dismissed Remco employee. After a meeting with Remi and his client, he tells Remi that he misses her and only used the case as an opportunity to see her.

She asks him to leave as there's nothing left for him here. She also tells him that Tega would soon be back from his trip.

It seems like a pretty normal conversation between a mentor and mentee, except for Mike's longing eyes as he stares at Remi.

6. Talking about Mike...

He seems to be Castle and Castle's major competition these days. We see him again in episode five, this time representing a 17-year Jehovah witness, who is suing a Doctor client of Castle and Castle for administering a blood transfusion which he had prohibited.

According to the young man whose life was saved, the blood transfusion turned his community against him and caused his parents to disown him, leaving him homeless.

The case is perhaps, a subtle attempt by the creators of the show to address the extremities of certain religious beliefs.

7. Kwabena hooks up with Doshima

Kwabena is one of the most hilarious characters on "Castle and Castle," and he doesn't even have to try so hard. It's his pettiness and the way he smirks while dealing with Ben that makes him a favourite.

In episode six, he hooks up with Doshima. Afterwards, they both agree that it isn't professional for them to continue sleeping which each other.

Let's see how that works out for them.

8. "Castle and Castle" pays homage to victims of sexual assault

In the wake of several conversations about sexual assault and consent, episode six of "Castle and Castle" recognizes thousands of victims out there.

In the episode, a young girl has been raped by a man she went home with. They had shared a consensual kiss, after which he tried taking off her clothes, which she said "no" to, but he forcefully undresses her, overpowers her, and rapes her.

It also turns out that her abuser is the son of a powerful military man, but her lawyer, Malik, is determined to get her justice as he applauds her for speaking up.

9. Ben is involved in an accident

The last time we see Ben Castle, he is tipsy and driving back from an outing with his childhood friend, Kemi, when he hits a man down.

It's uncertain if the man is the dead or alive, but we do know that he seems badly injured, and Ben is in a lot of trouble.

10. Funniest scenes of the week

Every scene with the dramatic Stella is funny, especially the one she shares with Doshima after her obvious flirtatious moment with Kwabena.

It's brief, but it's funny in an understated manner.

Favourite Performer(s) of the week.

We may not be huge fans of Otumba and his morals, but we can't disregard the expertise with which the character is delivered by Patrick Doyle.

Entertaining episodes overall, but we have just one question:

What's the deal with Malik?

He seems to be shrouded in mystery, like he has a story we are yet to hear. In episode five, when Ayanda is upset about her missing child and he tries to calm her down, she flares up and hints that he is being insensitive because he doesn't have a child.

There was a pained look on his face, as if he could understand her story and sadness. But who knows, maybe there's no story and he is just being himself; intense and moody.
A tale of love, lust and obsession, the movie which will be distributed by TRINO Motion Pictures will debut in cinemas on September 21, 2018.

The movie explores the cause and effect of relationships, mental health and the real versus the surreal world, as it tells the story of Richard Okezie, who decides to leave Sylvia, his lifelong imaginary friend and lover for Gbemi an actual human being.

About "Sylvia"

"Sylvia" stars Chris Attoh as Richard, who has always existed between the real world and a fantasy world, which is home to his friend and lover Sylvia (Zainab Balogun). Filled with passion and love, the two devotees embark on a journey of commitment.

Time and life goes on leaving Richard in a dicey situation. He is now faced with the decision on a future and full commitment, either to the real world with its demands, or the surreal world that houses an increasingly frustrated Sylvia.

Events unfold leading Richard on a downward spiral.

Cast and crew of Sylvia
The 28-year-old popstar took to Twitter in the early hours of Tuesday, August 7 to announce the release date for his new project, Made In Lagos.

01.10.18 Wizkid tweeted, then he followed it up with another tweet of the album title, ''#MadeinLagos.''

Made in Lagos will be the fourth body of work coming from Wizkid after the release of his debut album, Superstar in 2011, ''Ayo'' in 2014 and the internationally distributed EP, Sounds From The Other Side in 2017.

The impact of his Sounds From The Other Side album

The Made in Lagos album is Wizkid's attempt at regaining hold of the home scene after his foray into international waters with the Sounds From The Other Side album released last year.

Released and distributed under RCA Records/Sony Music International, SFTOS sold 6,286 units in its first week. Thats broken down into 2,672 pure album purchase, 6,079 song downloads, 4,510,897 song streams. All of these made up the first week sales for Wizkid.

And while back home, the debate surrounding the EP was largely in the negative, cracking the American market will never be easy for a non-white artist not born in North America.

Yes, while Sounds From The Other Side wasn't a masterpiece or perfect with regards to marketing we should be aware that it has pushed the narrative of African music in North America forward.

Despite trying to conquer new grounds, Wizkid understands that he cannot neglect his home base especially has the likes of Davido has become a dominant force with stellar singles in 2017 that shot his profile into winning the artist of the year at the 2018 Headies Awards.

Recognising this, Wizkid returned home and has released a number of banging singles and collaborations including Manya, Nowo withDJ Spinall, the Starboy collaboration Soco, Kana with Olamide and Fake Love with Duncan Mighty, that have all been well received and become chart toppers.
The offence

This was the case of Cynthia Cherop, a Kenyan student of Eldoret based Moi University, Kenya who stole her mothers money, totaling sh70,000 from two bank accounts with the Barclays and National banks to lavish on her boyfriend, Josephat Nganga.

Careless Lovebirds

Good thieves are careful stealthy, but not Cynthia and Josephat who allowed CCTV footage from Barclays Bank record them while withdrawing the money.

Love gone sour

Although reasons remain unknown, Josephat was charged with creating disturbance after he threatened to soundly batter Cynthias mother, Ms Milka Chebosisi Sitati with the beating of her life.

Ms. Milka was having none of it

Ms. Milka must not have taken well to it  who would have. She subsequently sued her daughter and pleaded with the court to jail her daughter.

While Josephat denied the charge and was released on a cash bail of sh30,000, Cynthia has pleaded guilty to the charged which means she faces maximum penalty if shes found guilty.

However, she has pleaded with the court to consider that this was her first criminal offence. Two of her uncles have also been in court to plead with the court to let her continue her studies. According to Nation, State prosecutor Solomon Naulikha also didnt oppose Cynthia being treated as a first offender.
While some believe it is a controversial topic, we cannot deny that feminism is important. In a society, where women usually play the second fiddle, feminism has helped give women a voice. Despite its popularity, there are many Nigerians who do not understand feminism.

Pulse is about to break it down. A popular way to explain feminism is to break it into waves.

A wave of feminism describes the era and what feminists stood for at that point in time. Waves of feminism in the Western World are slightly different from the waves of feminism in Nigeria due to cultural and societal differences.

In the beginning, feminism wouldn't include the struggles of women of colour.

Below is a breakdown of the waves of feminism in the western world, followed by the waves of feminism in Nigeria.

Waves of feminism in the western world

1) First Wave (1830s  early 1900)

This era saw women fight for the right to vote, for equal contract as well as property rights. This was the primary focus of the first wave. It strived to make women equal political counterparts with men. The first wave of feminism also dealt with economic matters and how it affected women.

Their political agenda expanded to issues concerning sexual, reproductive and economic matters.

It must be said that during this period, women of colour were not part of the first wave of feminism.

2) Second Wave (1960s - 1980s)

After the goal of enfranchisement (the right or privilege to vote) had been attained, the feminist movement entered the second wave. During these two decades, the second wave was centred around the issues of female sexuality, reproductive rights, the workplace, domestic abuse and marital rape.

The second wave was able to achieve changes in custody and divorce laws.

3) Third Wave (the Early 1990s - 2012)

During this wave of feminism, women for gender equality in society brought up sexual harassment in the workplace and fought for more women in positions of power.

It also strove to abolish gender-role stereotypes and include more diversity. The third wave also witnessed the entrance of black feminism. Other issues such as gay rights, rape, the reclamation of derogatory terms were prominent in the third wave.

4) Fourth Wave (2012 - to date)

The fourth wave fights for feminist causes mainly with the use of social media. It seeks justice for women, an end to violence against women and the end of sexual harassment in public and in the workplace. It causes also include stopping, body shaming, workplace discrimination, and closing the gender pay gap.

The fourth wave also aims to end misogyny and demolish patriarchal standards. The manifestation of the fourth waves includes the #MeToo movement, the continuation of the slut walk, the promotion of the Men Are Scum slogan, and Free The Nipple movement.

Feminism waves in Nigeria

1) First Wave (late 19th century - mid-70s)

The first wave of feminism in Nigeria occurred during the same period when many African nations were fighting for independence from their colonial masters.

The female activists during the first wave did not solely identify themselves as feminists. Rather they were in the forefront of the nationalist movement and within that movement, they fought for the economic and political rights of women. A lot of feminists within this era were members of nationalist movements.

In 1929, the Aba Women's Riots was a revolt against the restriction of women in government. The riots took place in Eastern Nigeria.

Nationalists such as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti advocated for the economic and political rights of women. She fought against price controls that were affecting market women negatively. Mrs Kuti who was Fela mum's played an active part in abolishing separate tax rates for women. In 1949, she famously led women's protest against the traditional ruler Alake of Egbaland for abuse of power. This made the traditional ruler abdicate the throne for a few years.

Margaret Ekpo was another prominent feminist in her time. She was very active in politics and from 1953 she started taking political positions in the country.

In 1948, women in the Southern part of Nigeria could vote in elections. Suffrage in Northern Nigeria would not be achieved until 1978.

With the right to vote and dream of independence achieved, the first wave of feminism in Nigeria gradually made way for the second wave.

2) Second Wave (the mid-70s - 2005)

1975 was declared as the International Year of Women. Also, the United Nations declared 1976-1985 as the decade for women.

During this period in Nigeria, there was an increased drive for the education of the girl child, especially in the North.

1982 would witness the first feminist movement in Nigeria with a national conference held at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria. Ayesha Iman, Bene Madunagu, Bilkisu Yusuf, Renee Pittin, Molara Ogundipe-Leslie and Therese Nweke made presentations.

The iconic event would give birth to the establishment of Women In Nigeria, "a female run, not-for-profit organization, dedicated to positively affecting the socio-economic development of Nigeria, through the empowerment of women."

By the 80s, feminism in Nigeria would focus on family planning and speak up against polygamy.

The second wave would see the governmental contribution for feminist causes with the Better Life Programme for Rural Women in 1987 and Family Support Programme in 1994. Within this period, safe sex, the eradication of harmful cultural practices and HIV/AIDS would be major issues for women.

3) Third Wave (2006 - circa 2014)

In 2006, the Nigerian Feminist Forum was created which more or less marks the beginning of the third wave of feminism in Nigeria. This wave would focus on issues such as the right of a woman to have an abortion and the support of LGBT rights.

4) Fourth Wave (circa 2015 - till date)

Just like the fourth wave in the Western World, feminists have relied heavily on social media and the Internet to pass their message across.

Rape culture, sexual assault and molestation, gender equality, consent, gender pay gap, sexuality, and the elimination of patriarchy

This wave also put a spotlight on the rape of minors, sexual molestation in universities, marital rape, and gender fluidity.

Body shaming, misogyny, workplace discrimination are also key issues within this wave.
For years, people of colour, despite the numerous strides they had made in their career, sat on the fringes of those spaces. Thanks to many of us using our voices to highlight important issues regarding race and representation, we now find ourselves occupying those spaces without invitation or permission. It has become so much so that we can no longer be ignored. The sea of black faces on this year's September issues is indicative of the seismic shift in a notoriously prejudiced industry towards recognising, appreciating and celebrating the impact these women have had and we are here for it!

Once upon a time, it was thought that black faces simply did not sell magazines. The Guardian newspaper carried out a study earlier this year which showed that 'the covers of some the UKs most popular monthlies remain overwhelmingly white. Of 214 covers published by the 19 bestselling glossies last year, only 20 featured a person of colour.'

At British Vogue, Alexandra Shulman spent a staggering 25 years at the helm of the magazine and during that time, only two black women were given solo covers. In 2012, Shulman said, in a society where the mass of the consumers are white and where, on the whole, mainstream ideas sell, its unlikely there will be a huge rise in the number of leading black models.

Pay it Forward

In her interview with Vogue magazine, Beyonce made a point of explaining exactly why change is so hard to effect in the industry and why her Vogue issue means so much. Speaking to Clover Hope, she said:

Until there is a mosaic of perspectives coming from different ethnicities behind the lens, we will continue to have a narrow approach and view of what the world actually looks like. That is why I wanted to work with this brilliant 23-year-old photographer Tyler Mitchell.

When I first started, 21 years ago, I was told that it was hard for me to get onto covers of magazines because black people did not sell. Clearly that has been proven a myth. Not only is an African American on the cover of the most important month for Vogue, this is the first ever Vogue cover shot by an African American photographer.

Its important to me that I help open doors for younger artists. There are so many cultural and societal barriers to entry that I like to do what I can to level the playing field, to present a different point of view for people who may feel like their voices dont matter.

Imagine if someone hadnt given a chance to the brilliant women who came before me: Josephine Baker, Nina Simone, Eartha Kitt, Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Whitney Houston, and the list goes on. They opened the doors for me, and I pray that Im doing all I can to open doors for the next generation of talents.

If people in powerful positions continue to hire and cast only people who look like them, sound like them, come from the same neighborhoods they grew up in, they will never have a greater understanding of experiences different from their own. They will hire the same models, curate the same art, cast the same actors over and over again, and we will all lose. The beauty of social media is its completely democratic. Everyone has a say. Everyones voice counts, and everyone has a chance to paint the world from their own perspective.

As important as it that we seek recognition from our peers, it's also important that, like Beyonce said, we pay it forward. Let these covers not be just a moment in time but the catalyst for a more complex conversation on representation, inclusion and visibility for black people in all spaces.

Why is the September Issue so important?

The September Issue, also the name of Vogue's award winning documentary, is the most important issue of the year in the magazine publishing industry. Thanks to the popular 2009 documentary starring US Vogue editor and Creative director Grace Coddington, we know that the magazine's September edition is the biggest, the most influential and the one with the strongest fashion pull.

Of course, all issues of magazines are important but September is bigger both in terms of editorial and advertising and sets the tone for the subsequent publishing year. This means that the September issue NEEDS to sell. Who these magazines choose to put on the cover is a huge part of its selling power so do these covers mean that black is profitable?

It appears that the tide may be changing in favour of people of colour as the black community the world over has begun to put their money where their mouths are and actively supporting their own.

From the unprecedented success of Black Panther to the selling power of beauty ranges geared towards darker women, it's clear that our strength lies in our economic power; the power of the black dollar.

Black Excellence

Edward Enninful in the magazine's 102 year history.

When ex-editor Alexandra Shulman stepped down in 2017, making way for UK Vogues first black editor, Edward Enninful, her leaving photo depicted an all-white editorial staff at the maagzine.

Edward entered into the Vogue space with the sole intention of disrupting the status quo and that he did. Since he took over, he has used the magazine as a conduit to push important social issues and challenge everything the magazine previously stood for whilst still preserving it's sartorial impact. For his first cover, he chose British-Ghanaian supermodel and for his very first September issue he has put Bajan popstar

According to the Guardian newspaper who spoke to a senior figure from an ethnic minority background working at another UK magazine, who did not want to be named. The industry is still overwhelmingly homogenous. Obviously, the appointment of Edward at Vogue is amazing, but that doesnt change the fact that magazines are still incredibly white and middle class.

Though the tides are beginning to change, this is only the start of an uphill battle. We must continue to push to be seen and support creatives of colour where possible so that we may all have a seat at the table.
Photo: The Canadian Press

An endangered killer whale that has prompted an international rescue effort won't receive antibiotics by dart or by fish if it's found in Canadian waters.

While veterinarians are roaming American waters armed with the experimental life-saving treatments, Paul Cottrell of Fisheries and Oceans Canada says they are still wading through the paperwork to make sure any efforts to treat the animal don't affect other members of her pod.

"It hasn't been done before so we'll have to quickly licence that and put in place. So we're reviewing that as we speak," Cottrell said from a vessel off B.C., where a Fisheries and Oceans Canada team is also searching for the whale.

The orca known as J50 appears emaciated and scientists have said she may have only days to live.

Cottrell couldn't say when the Canadian approvals would be in place, but said the process involves reviewing the proposal against the Species at Risk Act, consulting experts and considering regulations against feeding killer whales that were put in place to prevent habituation to humans.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada received the proposed rescue plan for its American counterparts on Friday, he said.

J50 is one of only 75 remaining southern resident killer whales that are found in coastal waters between British Columbia to California. At only three and a half years old, experts have said she has reproductive potential and could play a vital role in the southern residents' recovery if she survives.

J50 was last seen Friday in Canadian waters, but researchers haven't spotted her pod since then. Her pod recently drew an international spotlight when another whale, J35, was spotted pushing the body of her dead calf through the water for more than a week.

Teri Rowles of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says that if they find J50, they'll assess her health and determine if they will administer antibiotics by pole or by dart, and the whale may receive further treatment of salmon laced with medication.

"We don't know exactly what is wrong with her," Rowles said in a teleconference. She said they believe an infection is playing a role.

"It's very possible that she has succumbed at this point and we may never see her again. We are hopeful that there's still a chance that we will be able to assist her with medical treatment and give her enough time to get nourishment and treat infections, if indeed that is what is causing her decline," Rowles said.

Cottrell says the first step of assessing her health, which involves collecting breath and stool samples and observing her behaviour, can be done in Canadian waters.

If J50 is in American waters and needs antibiotics, Rowles said the next step will be to administer an antibiotic that lasts 10 to 14 days.

If that goes well, scientists will test the feeding plan by first dropping salmon without medication between 50 and 100 metres in front of J50's path to see if she or other pod members will eat them. They may drop medicated fish next, if that goes smoothly.

"We want to separate the antibiotic treatment from the fish feeding effort because we do not want her to associate with the fish feeding that she's going to get a shot," Rowles said.

Neither darting a free-ranging killer whale with antibiotics, nor feeding it medicated fish has ever been attempted before, Cottrell said.
In another win for the black girls, Zendayascores a coveted September issue cover, this time with lifestyle magazine Marie Claire. The beautiful actress poses in a leopard print fur coat with her hair wrapped into a chic up-do.

Her piercing eyes were lined with black winged eyeliner in keeping with the retro feel of the cover and the rest of her makeup was kept minimal allowing her natural beauty to shine through.

Read excerpts from the interview below:

On using her influence responsibly: Im very aware that I dont know everything, but I do try my best with the platform that I have, knowing how many people look to me. I try my best to inform myself and live my best life so that I can inspire my fans to live their best lives, be more educated, and learn for themselves.

And I try to do it in a way thats not telling people what to think but opening up their eyes to possibilities, ideas maybe they never thought about. I try to look at it as a responsibility more than anything.

On what drives her: I want longevity in my career, and I try to always think about how to create that. But I also like to live in the moment and do what feels right, right now. I think Im fueled byoh, wow, heres a corny moment again. I get fueled by the different people Im able to positively affect.

When people come up to you, and instead of saying, I loved the last project you did, theyre like, I appreciate that you said this, that makes me feel good. When Im able to do great things in my career, and fortunately be financially blessed, and then give it away and watch the money actually do good shit, that is the purpose.

On how she processes challenges and difficulties: The one thing I struggle with is I sometimes get so afraid to make a mistake. Like, I want to be perfect, I want to make all the right decisions, and when I dont, it stresses me out. But I cant allow myself to be scared of not always doing the right thing.
On Tuesday, August 7, 2018, DSS operatives barricaded the gate of the National Assembly and stopped workers and legislators from entering.

Reports say the move was part of a plot to impeach the Senate President, Bukola Saraki and his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu.

Following the invasion, Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo relieved the DSS DG, Lawal Daura of his duties.

Osinbajo also asked Daura to hand over to the most senior officer in the DSS.

Read APCs full statement, signed by its spokesman, Yekini Nabena below:

The All Progressives Congress (APC) condemns in the strongest terms, todays unfortunate invasion of the National Assembly by security forces. Our Party wholly dissociates itself from any act of brigandage and affront on the sacred symbols of our budding democracy.

Our Party remains a law abiding political organisation and advises every constituent part to abide by the tenets of our constitution and our democracy.

Whilst our contention with the leadership of the National Assembly as currently constituted is a matter of public record, we still believe that the legislature as an independent arm of government must be allowed free reign for vibrant contestation of ideas and values amongst its members within the context of their constitutional mandate and for the benefit of the Nigerian people.

We call for a more harmonious working relationship between the various Arms of Government in the general interest of the country.

FG appoints new DSS DG

Also, Mathew Seiyefa as been appointed as the new acting Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the assembly was tagged: Revival of the Catholic Traditions and Etiquettes in Contemporary Nigerian Church: Catholic Archdiocese of Jos in Focus.

According to Kaigama, tribalism, ethnic jingoism, religious bigotry and other divisive tendencies have over time constituted a serious bane in the developmental stride of the nation.

Its unfortunate that in Nigeria, we tend to harp more on things that divide us over those that unite us.

I often hear people talk more about ethnic, political and religious divisions, rather than merit, hard work and togetherness.

I dont get to see people behave in that manner when I was abroad, but here at home, its a common practice.

So, I want to urge all of us to talk more of things that bind us together rather than what divides us for only through that can we make meaningful progress as a nation, he said.
The DSS on Tuesday, August 7, 2018, barricaded the entrance of the National Assembly and stopped people from entering.

According to Fayose Tuesdays incident is an act of tyranny.

The Ekiti state Governor made this known in a statement which he posted on Twitter.

He said Shameful display of tyranny at the NASS. At this point, we can only pray to God to save democracy in our country from the hands of these tyrants. But I warned! I warned those who brought Buhari in 2015 and I kept warning even after he was elected. #SaveOurDemocracy.

Osinbajo talks tough

Following the invasion of the National Assembly, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo vowed to deal with everyone involved in the incident.

Osinbajo also sacked the DSS DG, Lawal Daura and asked him to hand over to the most senior officer in the DSS.

The All Progressives Congress (APC)has also condemned the invasion of the National Assembly by operatives of the DSS.
DSS operatives took over the complex early on Tuesday and prevented lawmakers and journalists from gaining access into the premises in what many believe to be a plot to implement the impeachment of Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

In a confrontation with the masked operatives, Goodhead, a representative of Asalga/Akulga federal constituency of Bayelsa State, dared them to shoot her.

In a video making the rounds, she could be heard saying, "Shoot these bullets and Nigerians shall face you. I dare you to shoot these bullets. Go back to your station, go back to your station.

"You cannot come here and embarrass us and also oppress us here. Was this the same thing Jonathan did to Buhari? If Goodluck had done this, would Buhari have become a president? You cannot do this to us. Start shooting at us. Have you heard?

"You come here with masked face, bullets in your guns, to intimidate who? Enough is enough in Nigeria."
This is coming after Lawan Daura was sacked by Acting President Yemi Osinbajo.

Osinbajo also ordered that the former DG should hand over to the most senior officer in the DSS.

According to Channels TV, the Acting President also met with Seiyefa and the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu, shortly after the acting DSS DG's appointmtnet.

Seiyefa's appointment was also confirmed by the Presidency on Twitter.

ALSO READ:NASS leadership postpones scheduled meeting indefinitely

Plot to impeach Saraki

According to a source in National Assembly, 30 APC senators met with the Director General (DG) of DSS at midnight of Monday, August 6 at the DSS headquarters. The plot is to impeach the senate president and deputy senate president today (August 7, 2018).
Enang and Sen. AhmedLawan, Senate Majority Leader gave this indication while addressing State House correspondents shortly after a closed-door meeting with Acting President YemiOsinbajo on Monday in Abuja.

Both men were in the State House to brief the Acting President on the situation in the Senate.

The also expressed the urgent need for the National Assembly to reconvene immediately and pass the virement and supplementary budgets requested by the President Muhammadu Buhari.

We are still appealing to the National Assembly to reconvene; you remember that we passed the budget with the understanding that a great amount of the money will be gotten from foreign loans.

Although it was approved that there would be a loan, the amount that would be gotten was not approved; the Fiscal Responsibility Act requires that the President should specifically state the amount he wants to get from foreign loans and present it before the National Assembly.

That letter has been presented before the National Assembly and it has to pass that amount before it could be obtained from the foreign financing institutions.

This is what we are asking and if does not happen, in the next few months, we have a complete government shut down because what we are receiving from the Federation Account as Federal Government share  the capital component  is not enough to sustain even 15 per cent to 20 percent of budget.

So, there may be a complete government shut down and I know Nigerians will not like it; that is why we are appealing to the National Assembly to reconvene.

Enang said that the All Progressives Congress (APC) had a clear majority in the Senate as it now had in its fold, Sen. GodswillAkpabio, the leader of the Peoples Democratic Party in the Senate and other defecting Senators.

He said that Akpabio would be formally received in APC at a ceremony that would be held in Akwa Ibom on Aug. 8.

On his part, Lawan said that that the capital aspect of 2019 budget would be largely funded by foreign facilities/loans.

He said that the National Assembly needed to pass the virement and supplementary budgets alongside other important and essential requests, especially that of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other security agencies.

We need to reconvene immediately to look into these issues.

Our government is almost stalled and I believe that if we pass the supplementary budget and virement request of Mr President, it will enable our government to provide the various infrastructure that we have planned to provide for Nigerians.

To do otherwise will be sabotage to this administration; will be sabotage to democracy itself because if we cannot provide the funds for INEC to plan the 2019 elections, what do we call ourselves?

Take the case of INEC for example, it can pick some items from the shelves but there are so many important items that INEC will place order that will take two to three months.

 So, it is very imperative that we do the needful; we should reconvene the National Assembly immediately; as legislators and representatives of Nigeria, we do what is best in national interest.

He urged senators to quickly reconvene and pass the requests as anything contrary would mean fighting the masses.

Lawan said that there were conflicting reports from different caucuses of the Senate but that APC remained the majority as it had 53 senators in its caucus.

He noted that the list of senators in APC caucus had been made public and challenged the PDP to publish the names of senators in the PDP Senate caucus.
Daura was sacked as the DSS DG by Osinbajo after operatives from the agency invaded the National Assembly on Tuesday, August 7, 2018.

A source who spoke on the incident said: 30 APC senators met with the Director General (DG) of DSS at midnight of Monday, August 6 at the DSS headquarters. The plot is to impeach the senate president and deputy senate president today (August 7).

The Senator also planned to install Senators Ahmad Lawan as Senate President and Hope Uzodinma as the Deputy Senate President, according to reports.

The Acting President also met briefly with the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ibrahim Magu.

Osinbajo had earlier vowed to take disciplinary actions against all those involved in the invasion of the National Assembly complex.
Daura's termination was announced by Osinbajo's spokesperson, Laolu Akande, in a statement on Tuesday, August 7, 2018.

"Mr. Daura has been directed to hand over to the most senior officer of the State Security Service until further notice," the statement read.

While the reason for his termination has not been made public, early speculations indicate that it might have something to do with DSS operatives taking over the National Assembly complex early on Tuesday. They prevented lawmakers and journalists from gaining access into the premises in what many believe to be a plot to implement the impeachment of Senate President, Bukola Saraki.

Before his termination, Osinbajo summoned Daura to the Presidential Villa and met with him after his arrival around 1:15pm, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Blankson had pulled 13 people out of the river after a passenger boat capsized in Degema local government area of Rivers on July 30, 2018. The diesel supplier drowned during his final attempt, leaving behind his wife and two children.

Saraki and Atiku joined the hordes of Nigerians who have taken to social media to hail Blankson's heroics.

On his Twitter account on Monday, August 6, 2018, Saraki saluted Blankson's heroic "last great act".

He posted, "Every now and then we hear amazing stories of Nigerian heroes. Joseph Blankson gave his life to save 13 people. I salute this Nigerian hero who by his last great act, showed us, once again, that we have remarkable people across this nation. His memory will be writ in gold."

Similarly, on Tuesday, August 7, Atiku also took to his Twitter account to hail Blankson as a "true Nigerian hero".

He posted, "Joseph Blankson is a true Nigerian hero who met his tragic end in his quest to rescue others when the boat he was in capsized. He successfully saved 13 people before he got exhausted & drowned. Joseph is a reminder that all Nigerian lives matter. May he find rest among the saints."

Mother describes Blankson as a humanitarian

The deceased's mother, Elizabeth Blankson, described her son as a humanitarian who was a very kind person and was always ready to show kindness to others, even if it would cause him harm.
DSS operatives took over the complex early on Tuesday and prevented lawmakers and journalists from gaining access into the premises in what many believe to be a plot to implement Saraki's impeachment.

In a joint statement signed by both leaders of the legislative chambers of the national assembly on Tuesday, they described it as an attempt to subvert the nation's democracy.

Saraki and Dogara said the invasion is part of a larger plan to illegally change the leadership of the national assembly and called on members of the international community to view the invasion as a coup against democracy, calling the invasion "undemocratic, uncivilized and irresponsible".

Read the full statement below:

Following the on-going invasion of the National Assembly complex by men of the Department of State Services (DSS) in which legislators and members of staff, including the Clerk of the National Assembly, Alhaji Mohammed Sani Omolori, who is the administrative head of the Federal legislature, were harassed and prevented from accessing their offices, Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki and Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara have condemned the action of the security agents and described it as another attempt to subvert the nation's democracy.

In a statement jointly signed by the two presiding officers of both Chambers of the National Assembly, Saraki and Dogara stated that the heavy presence of armed security men who unnecessarily militarized the legislative complex and harassed legislators and the workers in the complex could not be justified in a democracy.

The Senate President and Speaker further noted that today was a sad day for democracy as very early in the morning, they got reports backed by video and pictures, from members of staff of the National Assembly, their colleagues from both chambers and other individuals, about the heavy presence of the security personnel who insisted that nobody would enter the complex except certain Senators who were to be conveyed into the complex in a Coaster bus.

"By 6.30 am, the reports started coming in and by 7am, there were pictures and video online showing armed security men preventing Senators and Honourable members from coming into the Complex. Some of our colleagues then mobilized other members in both chambers from their respective abode so that they could pressurize the Security men from allowing them to gain entry.

"Obviously, the public outcry from Nigerians and members of the international community against this illegality, this desecration of the sanctity of the legislature and this flagrant abuse of powers forced the government to relax the directives given to the security men as they later allowed the legislators to walk from the main gate into the foyer. Still the lawmakers were not allowed to drive in, in their vehicles and were denied access into the main building housing their offices.

"It is not clear what the plan of the government is but information reaching us indicated that some Senators who are pro-executive arm are being camped somewhere here in Abuja and they are being compelled to sign an impeachment notice that would later be brought to the Assembly complex. The Senate Chamber will now be forced open to enable an illegal change of leadership take place in the Senate.

"It should be noted that the Senate formally adjourned on July 24, 2018 and it stands adjourned. To reconvene, there is a process which has to be followed. Also, it should be clear that these Senators who are camped somewhere know the procedure for changing the leadership of the Senate. Both the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Presidency officials masterminding this illegality know that they do not have the numbers to lawfully carry out this action.

"Therefore, we call on members of the international community to view this development as a coup against democracy. This is a throw-back to the inglorious days of military rule where dissent is not tolerated and freedom of association and other fundamental human rights are willfully and carelessly violated.

"We urge Nigerians and the international community to condemn this illegal invasion of the National Assembly complex and the attempt to asphyxiate the legislature as undemocratic, uncivilized and irresponsible.

"Let us use this opportunity to thank our colleagues in the Senate and House of Representatives who immediately mobilized to resist this coup against democracy. Their action will be recorded as one taken at a time when the soul of this country is being imperilled. They have acted to avert the breakdown of constitutionalism and collapse of the rule of law. They have stood up to dictatorship and demonstrated that this country belongs to all of us.

"We also thank members of the press, local and international, and all Nigerians whose support for the cause of democracy have sustained us this far.

"Following this unpleasant development, the joint leadership meeting slated for this afternoon has been postponed till further notice because under the prevailing circumstances, we cannot guarantee the safety of the 20 members from both chambers expected at the meeting", Saraki and Dogara stated.

Saraki to hold world press conference on Wednesday

Saraki's Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, disclosed on Tuesday that the Senate President will address a world press conference at the foyer of the National Assembly on Wednesday, August 8. He is expected to address the events of Tuesday and the ongoing rift in the Senate and with the federal government.

Osinbajo sacks DSS director

In reaction to the invasion of the national assembly by the DSS, Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, sacked the agency's Director-General, Lawal Daura, after a meeting at the Presidential Villa.
In a statement signed by the former Akwa Ibom governor's spokesperson, Jackson Udom, he said the lawmaker addressed his resignation letter to Deputy Minority Leader, Senator Emmanuel Bwacha (Taraba South - PDP).

In the letter, dated August 4, 2018, Akpabio thanked the People's Democratic Party (PDP) for giving him the opportunity to lead the party's caucus for the past three years.

The letter read, "May I extend to you and my dear colleagues in the People's Democratic Party Senate Caucus of the 8th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria the compliments and best wishes of my constituents and I.

"This letter is to formally inform you of my resignation as the Senate Minority Leader with effect from August 4, 2018.

"Let me thank the Senate minotiry leadership, our distinguished colleagues and our great party, the PDP, for the opportunity to lead the Caucus in the last three years."
Pulse had earlier reported that masked operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) had stormed the national assembly and barricaded the gates to Nigerias parliament.

An aide of Senate President Bukola Saraki told Pulse that the senators loyal to the government are now convening in Sheraton Hotel where the illegal impeachment exercise will be commencing.

The genesis of Saraki's troubles

Elected senator on the platform of the APC in the 2015 general elections, Saraki wasnt his partys choice for the position of senate president. However, the Kwara born politician manoeuvred his election--well against his partys wish--while working in cahoots with PDP senators.

It was the day the battle line between Saraki and the APC hierarchy was drawn. A slew of corruption charges would be thrown Saraki's way for full measure.

The APC has been holding clandestine meetings to impeach Sarak since the senate presidents defection to the PDP on July 31.

Senate presidents and speakers are often elected from the majority and governing party. The PDP and APC are claiming majority seats in Nigerias 109 member senate.

The APC requires two-thirds majority in the senate to impeach Saraki and one-third to form a quorum.

Update:Pulse can confirm that the APC senators who were said to be making their way to Sheraton, are not at Sheraton at the moment.

Our correspondent on the ground has since relocated to the national assembly to keep an eye on events and file stories as they break. She reports that the atmosphere is tense at NASS, that the gates are still locked and that the emergency meeting of presiding and principal officers would still go on as scheduled; barring last minute tweak in plans.
Our correspondents on the ground at the national assembly report that lawmakers and staff are being turned back from the premises and gates of Nigerias parliament, with all entry and exit points locked to visitors.

Serving Senator Rafiu Ibrahim was heard asking the DSS officials: has the military taken over? after he was prevented from gaining access to the national assembly complex.

Top ranking sources who spoke to Pulse on the basis of anonymity say Tuesday mornings barricade is part of the grand plot to impeach Saraki who defected to the opposition PDP on July 31.

An additional battalion of police officers have also just arrived the national assembly complex.

The national assembly embarked on a recess on July 31.

Midnight meeting

30 APC senators met with the Director General (DG) of DSS at midnight of Monday, August 6 at the DSS headquarters. The plot is to impeach the senate president and deputy senate president today (August 7), a top ranking source in the national assembly disclosed.

Pulse was also told that the APC has all but concluded plans to install Senators Ahmad Lawan as senate president and Hope Uzodinma as deputy senate president once the duo of Saraki and Ike Ekweremadu have been kicked out of the way.

Senate spokesperson Sabi Abdullahi wasnt immediately available for comments. Pulse also tried to reach APC Chairman Adams Oshiomhole for comments but calls placed to his mobile returned unanswered.

Impeaching Saraki

Pulse has been told that Saraki called for the meeting because he is well aware of the plot by the APC to impeach him.

The APC currently has 53 lawmakers on its books with the PDP boasting 52at least by some accounts. The senate plans to conduct a headcount when parliament reconvenes in September, to ascertain just how many lawmakers belong to either party. At the moment, both parties are claiming majority seats in a 109 member senate.

The APC has since poached Senator Godswill Akpabio who until his defection, was minority leader in the upper legislative chamber.

Akpabios first task as an APC senator,Pulse has been told, will be to poach as many PDP senators as possible who will make up the two-thirds figure required to impeach Saraki.
Abdullahi resigned his APC membership on Tuesday, July 31, 2018, noting that the ruling party made his position untenable with a host of reasons.

During the official opening of the CUPP secretariat on Thursday, August 2, the coalition inaugurated several committees in its bid to seize the presidency from the ruling APC in the 2019 presidential election.

The media and publicity committee also includes Kazeem Afegbua, the spokesperson of former military head of state, Ibrahim Babangida and national publicity secretary of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Kola Ologbondiyan.

CUPP alliance

On July 9, 2018, dozens of political parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to oust the current administration of President Muhammadu Buhari of the ruling APC in the 2019 presidential election.

According to the terms of the MoU, the alliance has resolved to back a single presidential candidate to oust Buhari.

The coalition promised a unity government with a joint manifesto that will usher in great governance never before seen in the country.

At the Thursday opening, the CUPP inaugurated a 17-member steering committee to coordinate the activities of the grand alliance.

Buba Galadima, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Tunde Adeniran, Abdulkadir Abdulsalam, Ben Obi, Peter Ameh, Sam Eke, Jeff Ojinka are members of the committee.

Others are Igwe Emeka Benjamin, Hon. Razak Eyiowuawi, Odion Okpebholo, Abduljalili Tafawa Balewa, Tanko Yunusa, Olusegun Peters, Georgina Danagogo, Ikenga Ugochinyere and Mark Adebayo.
According to The Cable, Nagoda made this known in a letter addressed to the Secretary to the Kano State Government.

In the letter, the Governors aide said I regret to write and inform you my resignation as special assistant to his excellency, the executive governor of Kano state on graveyards.

I thank his excellency for giving me this opportunity to work with him and the entire people of Kano state.

ALSO READ:Frustrated women in Kano and Katsina are abusing drugs

I hope you will convey my resignation to his excellency.

Thank you.
Hunkuyi was received by the State Chairman of the PDP, Mr Felix Hassan Hyet and other executive members of the party at the Trade Fair Complex, Kaduna.

Hyet urged them to work with the party to take power from the APC in the state come 2019.

He claimed Hunkuyi brought APC to power in the state.

 I believe he has realised his mistake and would work hard towards correcting that by helping to send him (the governor) packing from Sir Kashim Ibrahim House,Hyet said.

Hunkuyi who arrived the venue of the event with other defectors was received by a crowd of supporters.

He said that PDP is fully back, rebranded and ready to take over power from the ruling party.

However, he claimed he made an error bringing el-Rufai on board in 2015. He begged for forgiveness over the role he played in bringing the APC to power in Kaduna.

We came to join hands with our friends to liberate our state from the bondage of APC in Kaduna State.

Lets join hands with our great party PDP and change things.
Legislators and members of staff of the national assembly were prevented from gaining access into the complex, amid claims that the DSS operatives had been deployed following orders from the presidency and the governing APC.

Saraki and Dogara have condemned the action of the security agents and described it as another attempt to subvert the nation's democracy.

'Not justified in a democracy '

The presiding officers of both arms of the federal legislature stated that the heavy presence of armed security men who "unnecessarily militarized the legislative complex and harassed legislators and the workers in the complex could not be justified in a democracy".

The Senate President and Speaker further noted that today was a sad day for democracy as very early in the morning, "they got reports backed by video and pictures, from members of staff of the National Assembly, their colleagues from both chambers and other individuals, about the heavy presence of the security personnel who insisted that nobody would enter the complex except certain Senators who were to be conveyed into the complex in a Coaster bus.

"By 6.30 am, the reports started coming in and by 7am, there were pictures and videos online showing armed security men preventing Senators and Honourable members from coming into the Complex. Some of our colleagues then mobilized other members in both chambers from their respective abode so that they could pressurize the Security men from allowing them to gain entry.

"Obviously, the public outcry from Nigerians and members of the international community against this illegality, this desecration of the sanctity of the legislature and this flagrant abuse of powers forced the government to relax the directives given to the security men as they later allowed the legislators to walk from the main gate into the foyer. Still the lawmakers were not allowed to drive in, in their vehicles and were denied access into the main building housing their offices.

"It is not clear what the plan of the government is but information reaching us indicated that some senators who are pro-executive arm are being camped somewhere here in Abuja and they are being compelled to sign an impeachment notice that would later be brought to the Assembly complex. The Senate Chamber will now be forced open to enable an illegal change of leadership take place in the Senate.

"It should be noted that the Senate formally adjourned on July 24, 2018 and it stands adjourned. To reconvene, there is a process which has to be followed. Also, it should be clear that these senators who are camped somewhere know the procedure for changing the leadership of the senate. Both the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Presidency officials masterminding this illegality know that they do not have the numbers to lawfully carry out this action.

"Therefore, we call on members of the international community to view this development as a coup against democracy. This is a throw-back to the inglorious days of military rule where dissent is not tolerated and freedom of association and other fundamental human rights are willfully and carelessly violated.

"We urge Nigerians and the international community to condemn this illegal invasion of the National Assembly complex and the attempt to asphyxiate the legislature as undemocratic, uncivilized and irresponsible.

"Let us use this opportunity to thank our colleagues in the Senate and House of Representatives who immediately mobilized to resist this coup against democracy. Their action will be recorded as one taken at a time when the soul of this country is being imperilled. They have acted to avert the breakdown of constitutionalism and collapse of the rule of law. They have stood up to dictatorship and demonstrated that this country belongs to all of us.

"We also thank members of the press, local and international, and all Nigerians whose support for the cause of democracy have sustained us this far".

The statement from Saraki and Dogara added that: "following this unpleasant development, the joint leadership meeting slated for this afternoon has been postponed till further notice because under the prevailing circumstances, we cannot guarantee the safety of the 20 members from both chambers expected at the meeting".
More than 330 came from near and far to attend the event.

Mesalands Community College's President John Groesbeck was the guest speaker during the Golden Rattlers Luncheon Saturday at the Pow Wow.

A little thunder and lightning did nothing to diminish Friday's gathering of Tucumcari High School graduates at the Tucumcari Convention Center to kick off the Rattler Reunion.

Graduates came in from all over the U.S.

The classes of 1988 and 1968...
What is an Elliptic / Cauer Filter: the basics The Elliptic or Cauer filter provides the fastest transition from pass to stop band but with ripple in passband and stopband..

RF Filters Includes:

RF filters - the basics Filter specifications RF filter design basics High & low pass filter design Constant-k filter Butterworth filter Chebychev filter Bessel filter Elliptical filter Crystal filter

The Elliptic or Elliptical filter is also known as a Cauer filter and sometimes even a Zolotarev filter.

The filter is used in many RF applications where a very fast transition between the passband and stopband frequencies is required. The elliptic filter produces the fastest transition of any type of filter, but it also exhibits gain ripple in both passband and stopband.

The key application for the elliptic filter is for situations where very fast transitions are required between passband and stopband. It could be that spurious signals fall just outside the required bandwidth and these need to be removed. Sometimes where non-amplitude sensitive forms of signal are used, a form of gain equalisation may be possible to counteract the ripple of the RF filter.

Naming of elliptic filter

The elliptic filter is also often referred to as the Cauer filter after Wilhelm Cauer.

Cauer was born in Berlin, Germany in 1900. He trained as a mathematician and then went on to provide a solid mathematical foundation for the analysis and synthesis of filters. This was a major step forwards because prior to this the performance and operation of filters was not well understood.

Cauer provided the solid mathematical approach required to enable filters to be designed to meet a requirement rather than the approximate methods that had previously been used.

Graduating from the Technical University of Berlin in 1924, Cauer worked as a lecturer at Institute of Mathematics at the University of Gottingen. However as a result of the depression he moved to the USA, studying at MIT and Harvard, but later returned to Germany.

Sadly Cauer was in Berlin at the end of the Second World War and his body was found in a mass grave in Berlin.

The filter is also sometimes called a Zolotarevwas filter after Yegor (Egor) Ivanovich Zolotarevwas who was a Russian mathematician. He was born and lived in St Petersburg. After gain his degree he became a lecturer at St Petersburg University, lecturing main on elliptic functions.

Sadly Zolotarevwas met an untimely death when was on his way to his dacha and was run over by a train in the Tsarskoe Selo station, later dying from the resultant blood poisoning on 19 July 1878.

Elliptic Cauer filter basics

The elliptic filter is characterised by the ripple in both pass-band and stop-band as well as the fastest transition between pass-band and ultimate roll-off of any RF filter type.

The levels of ripple in the pas-band and stop-band are independently adjustable during the design. As the ripple in the stop-band approaches zero, the filter becomes a Chebyshev type I filter, and as the ripple in the stop-band approaches zero, it becomes a Chebyshev type II filter.

If the ripple in both stop-band and pass-band become zero, then the filter transforms into a Butterworth filter.

There are two circuit configurations used for the low pass filter versions of the Cauer elliptic filter. One has the parallel capacitor and inductor in the signal line .

More Essential Radio Topics:

Radio Signals Modulation types & techniques Amplitude modulation Frequency modulation OFDM RF mixing Phase locked loops Frequency synthesizers Passive intermodulation RF attenuators RF filters RF circulator Radio receiver types Superhet radio Receiver selectivity Receiver sensitivity Receiver strong signal handling Receiver dynamic range

Return to Radio topics menu . . .
Rodriguez is set to perform in New Zealand next February at Aucklands Villa Maria Winery with supporting acts the Topp Twins, Dave Dobbyn and The Eastern.



Brent Eccles, promoter of the show, joins Ryan Bridge and co-host Sir Bob Parker to talk all things Rodriguez.

His music had become hugely popular in South Africa but Rodriguez had no idea when he mysteriously disappeared. This motivated the documentary 'Searching for Sugar Man', as his fans sought to bring him back into fame.

Speaking about the documentary, Mr Eccles admits he was knocked out by its beauty and its sincerity.



Rodriguez has a great story to tell, so Mr Eccles wanted the supporting acts to be just as inspiring, exclaiming the Topp Twins have never been better.

Mr Eccles believes his voice is very good and very true, and he likes the style in the performance.



Tickets are on sale now from Ticketmaster.



Listen to the full interview with Brent Eccles above.



Drive with Ryan Bridge and Lisa Owen, 3pm - 6pm Weekdays and streaming live on'rova' channel 9 - available on Android and iPhone.

RadioLIVE.
An Afghan Army soldier has been called an unsung hero after he sacrificed himself to keep a suicide bomber away from rush hour traffic.

The soldier, named Mohammad Omer, suspected something was wrong when a car with tinted windows pulled up to a security checkpoint in Jalalabad, Al Jazeera reported.

Al Jazeera journalist Charlotte Bellis told RadioLIVE that Mr Omer grabbed the suspect and hugged him tightly.
Nurses have voted to accept their latest pay offer from DHBs by a "significant majority.

It brings almost a year of negotiations and further strike action to a close, and was the fifth employment offer from DHBs.

The pay offer included two new pay steps for senior nurses and midwives, a definite date for the implementation of pay equity, a commitment to implement the safe staffing scheme Care Capacity and Demand Management (CCDM), and a minimum pay increase of 12.5 percent by August 2019.

New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) says it will urgently work with DHBs on implementing the conditions of the agreement.

Many of our members have worked so hard for this, NZNO industrial services manager Cee Payne told RadioLIVEs Wendyl Nissen.

I think many of them will be feeling pretty relieved today that there is a settlement and that we can move forward with actually implementing some of the hard won gains in this DHB MECA (Multi-Employer Collective Agreement).

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is "delighted" nurses have accepted the offer.

"Our nurses are dedicated, caring professionals and deserve decent and safe working conditions. This settlement rightly delivers the biggest pay increase nurses have seen in a decade and will put 500 more nurses in our hospitals," Ms Ardern said.

Health Minister Dr David Clark commended the NZNO and DHBs for "finding common ground" after what he admitted were "lengthy, and at times, testing negotiations".

Listen to the full interview with Cee Payne above.

The Long Lunch with Wendyl Nissen, 12pm - 3pm on RadioLIVE and streaming live to the rova app on Android and iPhone.

RadioLIVE.
Every Tuesday night after the 10pm news, Mitch Harris is joined by Elevation Capital founder and CEO Christopher Swasbrook to talk on the latest in business.

Tonight: Mitch and Chris are joined in studio by Sam Stubbs, Managing Director of Simplicity Kiwisaver Investment Funds, who is calling on the New Zealand government to undertake a Royal inquiry into banks in New Zealand.

He says Australian banks in New Zealand take over $5billion from New Zealanders annually, and the cost of the inquiry (thought to be $50million) is only 1 percent of what is taken from NZ each year - and the inquiry would be money well spent.

Night Talk with Mitch Harris, 8pm - 12am Monday to Thursday nights on RadioLIVE, and streaming live to the rova app on Android and iPhone.

RadioLIVE.
CHINA: The Hong Kong government announced on August 7 that it would deploy a team of experts to ensure quality and safety assurance on the Shatin  Central Link, following an MTR Corp special board meeting to discuss issues associated with the faulty construction of a platform slab at Hung ...
The writer Denis Dragunsky reminisces about how Soviet citizens kept their bodies free in a totalitarian state, talks about who had access to pornography, and reveals why people rarely visited prostitutes.

There was always an aura of taboo around sex in the Soviet Union. At the same time, there was, of course, sex. And a lot of it  no less than there is now. It's just that talking about it was considered embarrassing and indecent .

I t is commonly thought that during the LeningradBoston perestroika teleconference, one woman said, "We have no sex in the USSR." This is not true. What she actually said was that there was no sex on television.

Even earlier, back in 1977, Georgi Vasilchenko's book, Common Sexual Pathologies, was published, in which he summarized his experiences and described couples he saw in his practice. From his experience, it was clear that many sexual disorders occurred because people did not know how to talk about it.

Words for sex and sexual organs were either obscene or medical termsneither of which encourage frank discussions.

Yuly Raizman's movie "The Strange Woman" Sputnik Sputnik

There was another scandal in 1978, with the release of the film Strannaya Zhenshchina (The Strange Woman) about a young man and mature women who fall in love. A review on this film was published in Komsomolskaya Pravda that said, in part: "What's so strange here, if one in three marriages in the Soviet Union end in divorce?"

I was working then at the Diplomatic Academy and learned the news the next morning in a Greek newspaper. It had been picked up by newspapers around the world. Even compared to the West, this was a huge number of divorces.

How sexual freedoms gave way to a lack of freedom

In the 1920s, the Soviet authorities released the reins on sexual mores. Sexual freedom and emancipation of women were seen as part of the struggle against religion, grammar schools, the teaching of Greek and Latin, work uniforms, and the czarist-era Table of Ranks.

It was at this time that homosexuality was also de-criminalized. Divorces could be obtained without any problem: It was possible to get a divorce without even informing your spouse.

Gymnastics on the roof of a dorm in Lefortovo. This photo by Alexander Rodchenko was taken in 1932, but it perfectly captures the 1920s aesthetics. Alexander Rodchenko/Multimedia Art Museum of Moscow

Later, under Stalin, a more imperial policy was introduced: Abortions were banned, homosexuality was prohibited, and divorces became much more complicated. Even in the 1960s, people seeking a divorce had to put an ad in the Vechernaya Moskva newspaper. Only very powerful people could afford to divorce quietly.

After the war, there was an acute lack of men, so alimony payments were done away with. The issue of recognizing paternity was not even raised. An unmarried woman just left that line blank in the child's birth certificate.

Then, in the beginning of the 1950s, the situation began to level off and there was once again a movement to strengthen the family. Alimony dodgers appeared who persistently refused to pay alimony. Hunting down alimony dodgers was replaced in the 1960s by another popular pastimehunting down enemies of the people.

The police took alimony dodgers to court and sent court orders to them at work. For one child, they had to pay 25 percent of their salary; for two children it was 33 percent and for three or more it was 50 percent.

So men deliberately found low-paying jobs, paid alimony out of that salary, and earned money for themselves on the side. Every alimony dodger was positive that his money was going to feed a slackerthe new husband of his former wife.

Porn on the black market

Pornographic pictures were very popular. They were sold in trains by people who were, for some reason, called "Belarusians." Actually, they really did look something like Belarusians  blond, with high cheekbones and deep-set, bright blue eyes. They pretended to be deaf, but in reality were not. A dealer would come up to you, nudge your elbow, and take out pornographic pictures.

Sputnik Sputnik

The pictures could be divided into two unequal groups: The smaller group included reprints of foreign photos, and the larger were charming, homemade photos. They all seemed to feature iron beds with nickel-plated knobs, lace pillows, and paintings of bears by Shishkin on the walls.

Each picture showed an individual scene, and a set of pictures cost 3 rubles. By comparison, a pack of Capital cigarettes cost 40 cents, a bottle of vodka was 3 rubles, and a theatre ticket was 1,5 rubles.

Sometimes the photos were sold as a pack of cards; on the other side of each picture was, for example, the queen of clubs. In addition, there were handmade, locally-produced, pornographic stories with traditional Russian themes.

Later, translations from English appeared, like the famous Holidays in California book. A self-published Kama Sutra that had been typed out on a typewriter also made the rounds.

Still, only respectable books like Kafka, Pasternak and Tsvetayeva were sold on the black market in the Soviet Union. There were black markets that sold science fiction and markets where religious literature was soldbut there was no pornographic literature.

In the early 1970s, there was another breakthrough: Little albums with a series of pornographic scenes, like pornographic comics, began to appear in the Soviet Union. They were copied at night. Films also appeared in the amateur 8mm format.

The movies were foreign and professionally produced, judging by the quality. These films were imported mainly from Germany. The movies were like silent movies: One didn't need sound to understand the plot. But there definitely was a plot. All of the movies from the 1960s, 1970s and even 1980s had a witty or funny story line , which made them interesting to watch.

Soviet contraceptives

Condoms were commonly available in pharmacies. Yet discussing condoms and lubricants aloud was not socially acceptable. Most men came into a pharmacy and whispered faintly, or said, "A bag, please!" or even "Aspirin!" with a wink.

Alfred Tserlyukevich/TASS Alfred Tserlyukevich/TASS

At the time, it was impossible to imagine that a huge glass cabinet with condoms could ever stand in the middle of a pharmacy, or that customers would consult with pharmacists about the quality, taste, color and smell of a condom.

"Aspirin" cost two cents and came in three sizes. Condoms came sprinkled with talcum powder, so they had to be lubricated either with petroleum jelly or salivawhatever people preferred. Imported condoms appeared on the market in about the mid-1970s. At first, only Indian ones were offered, and then others appeared on the market from different countries.

There were other forms of contraception, like today, only they were much less safe. Sexually experienced women would teach friends exactly where to insert a lemon slice. They inserted the lemon right along with the peel.

It worked for the most part. Lemon is, after all, an acid. Women also douched with potassium permanganate. They would jump out of bed and run to the bathroom where they had left a little cup of pink water.

Modern sexual totalitarianism

Sex was one of the ways to resist totalitarianism. No wonder Orwell wrote that the goal of a totalitarian state is to subject the body and squash all sexual pleasure. Now there are new sexual dictatesbody waxing, chemical peeling and physical fitness.

In the past, women were all so different: There were chubby ones, skinny ones, or even bow-legged ones. No one obsessed about it. There was no cult of the body, because everyone knew perfectly well that this was for athletes and professionals.

Young people dance at a disco night at the Gorky Park Moscow Sergey Subbotin/Sputnik Sergey Subbotin/Sputnik

In modern Russia, we now have the cult of the plastic, Photoshopped body. It's just another kind of totalitarianismthe totalitarianism of advertising and fashion. In the Soviet Union it was different, probably because everyone was poor and had sex without giving it a second thought.

This is why there was less prostitution. It was an era when everything was free, which could not help but spill over into sex. Why pay a prostitute when you could just go out and dance?

Prostitutes and intellectuals

Prostitutes waited on the platforms of large suburban train stations. They sat with their legs stretched out and their prices written on the soles of their shoes, so that any passerby could check it out. There were two price levels for prostitutes in Moscow: either three or five rubles.

The girls usually could be found near the Prospect Mira subway station. They wore rings made of three-ruble or five-ruble bills. One was green, the other was blue, and it was easy to tell the price the girls were asking. But few people went to prostitutes.

Soviet drama "Intergirl" Pyotr Todorovsky/Mosfilm, 1989 Pyotr Todorovsky/Mosfilm, 1989

Using the services of a prostitute was like paying for drinking water when it was available for free at any water fountain. There were plenty of girls who were willing to indulge in the joys of sex for free.

There was, of course, the risk of STDs. People were afraid of gonorrhea and syphilis, which were very common. There were even street legends associated with them. For example, people knew that the nose could fall off from syphilis, but few people knew that this only happened after about 10 years, if the disease is left untreated. Thus, the morning after a wild night, some guys would, in all seriousness, check their noses.

Problems also arose because the general level of personal hygiene was poor. People bathed rarely and not very carefully. It was said that sexually active girls bathed more often, but proper girls only changed their underwear when they bathed, which was once every four days.

Even in the 1970s, neighbors thought that a female student who rented a room in a communal apartment and took a shower every day must be a prostitute. Back then, it was believed that only a prostitute would bathe every day.

First published in Russian in Bg.ru.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.
When Guyanese-born NEIL GOUVEIA immigrated to New York at age 7, his mother made a devastating decision to leave one child behind to expedite the family exodus. Six years later, they became US citizens. Now 39, gay and newly conservative, Gouveia takes a tough, unpopular stance against those who cross the border illegally. He shared his story with The Posts Susan Edelman.
The time has arrived for some moderation and clarity in thinking about contemporary Russia and its relationship to the Western world. Ronald Reagan was not wrong in the 1980s to call the Soviet Union an evil empire. Its death in 1991 was a welcome victory for liberty, peace, and political civilization. But post-communist Russia is not the Soviet Union and it cannot reasonably be called an evil empire. The continuity between the two political orders is woefully exaggerated in the West, with some on the left hating contemporary Russia, a half-authoritarian autocracy, more than they ever opposed communist totalitarianism. On the right, hatred of Russia also runs deep, and little or no distinction is made in most quarters between things Russian and Soviet. As Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, a Russian patriot and the anti-communist par excellence, told an interviewer in 2006, that is very disappointing, indeed. Why such blindness and rigidity across the political and media class in the Western world, and in the United States in particular?

On foreign policy questions, a frenetic moralism dominates all discussions about Russia and its relations with the West. For reasons known to all, it has only gotten worse since the 2016 election. Few understand how provocative it is for serious voices in the United States to propose NATO membership for Ukraine and Georgia. As famous historian of Russia Richard Pipes said to me at a Hillsdale College conference in the fall of 2008, NATO membership for Ukraine and Georgia is the equivalent of having Russian troops in Mexico and Canada. It provokes and does little to guarantee security.

We also need to examine our role in the deterioration of East-West relations. We know the Russians have made many mistakes and are perhaps unduly suspicious of Western intentions. That said, the United States massively intervened in the 1996 Russian presidential elections to support Boris Yeltsin, who was presiding over a kleptocracy that betrayed the promise of post-communist reform and was shamelessly impoverishing tens of millions of ordinary Russian citizens. As Michael Brendan Dougherty has recently written at National Review, this made us complicit, to some real extent, in the crimes of a regime that was neither truly democratic nor market-oriented, as many in the West naively, even perversely, insisted at the time. This far surpassed anything the Russians did to intervene in our elections in 2016. Russian support of our efforts in Afghanistan after 9/11 was not reciprocated and Western elites showed little sympathy with Russias ongoing struggle against radical Islam in Dagestan, Chechnya, and other parts of the north Caucasus. Few realize that however unsavory, the democratically elected government of Ukraine that was overthrown in February 2014 should not have been assaulted by mobs with the express support of the U.S. government. That makes a mockery of democracy promotion.

Ukraine is culturally a 50/50 country. The needs of that part of the population that identifies with Russia culturally deserve respect in any meaningful Ukrainian democracy. Russian intervention in the Donbass, in the east of Ukraine, has been heavy-handed and ill-advised. But the Crimea will not be returned to a nationalist government in Kiev since the region is historically Russian (at least since 1780), was handed over unilaterally to Ukraine by Khrushchev in 1954 (in a Soviet Union where borders didnt really matter), and contains a major naval base, Sevastopol, which is necessary for Russias security. Added to all this, Russia is economically weak in any comparative sense and is faced by demographic trends that suggest a precipitous decline in its power status in global politics. To be sure, Putin has played his limited cards very well and with a strong dose of Machiavellianism.

But Russia lacks the strength to rebuild the Soviet empire, and there is no consensus in support of such regressive, immoral, and self-defeating behavior. Those in the Red/Brown coalition in Russiaultra nationalists, aggressive imperialists, neo-fascists, anti-Christian pagans, unreconstructed Stalinistsdo not have the support or ear of Putins government, at least of its dominant elements. A word to the wise: Any alternative to Putin in Russia at the present time is likely to be more illiberal and less committed to the values of liberal and Christian civilization than the present political order. Contrary to legend, Putins is not a neo-Bolshevik regime and Putin is in no way sympathetic to or nostalgic for communist totalitarianism. Too much is made of his stint in the KGB (he did not work in the gulag or engage in domestic repression). His is an autocracy of the right, moderately authoritarian and not totalitarian. It is silly and pernicious to speak about his essentially non-ideological regime as in any way restoring Stalinism.

It is also a misleading euphemism to refer to contemporary Russia as a managed democracy, to cite the locution of Vladislav Surkov, the longtime ideas man for Putins inner circle. Putins regime is an autocracy where some public liberties are curtailed. But there is no mass violence and there are few political prisoners. Significantly, books are published from every political, ideological, philosophical, and religious point of view. There are some opposition newspapers and radio stations. Sadly, books are published in honor of Stalin, but this has no support from Putin as the president of the Russian Federation. He could do more to speak out against such nefarious historical revisionism, but it should be noted that Russia barely commemorated the centennial of the Bolshevik Revolution in the fall of 2017. Putin knows that communism weakened Russia, destroyed the flower of the nation, and left her spiritually prostrate. He has supported the teaching of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyns The Gulag Archipelago in the public schools, where it has been required reading since 2009. This means that every young Russian of high school age is exposed, at least in principle, to the most powerful indictment of totalitarianism ever written.

The Orthodox Church, for its part, pays regular homage to the new martyrs killed by the communists. On October 30, 2017, a new monument dedicated to the victims of political repression in the Soviet Union, one designed by the sculptor Georgy Frangulyan, was unveiled in Moscow. It was the product of a partnership between the Solzhenitsyn Foundation, directed by Solzhenitsyns widow, Natalia, and the Memorial Organization founded by the heroic Andrei Sakharov, among others. Putin spoke at the event and quoted the wise and eloquent words of Natalia Solzhenitsyn: To Know, To Remember, to Condemn and then Only to Forgive. If only more Russians took to heart these words about the need for an uncompromising attitude toward the Soviet past. Let us hope Putin takes his own words to heart. Is any of this truly known in the West?

As for Natalia Solzhenitsyn, she told Le Figaro in the spring of 2018 that she takes a centrist line toward Putin and his government. Russia needs more political liberty and more truth and clarity about the evils of the totalitarian past. There are still too many lies and too much corruption in post-communist Russia. But Russia is no longer an ideological despotism, a totalitarian state, and one can dialogue with an imperfect but not nefarious regime. Such moderation of judgment is required if we are not to confuse an authoritarian Russia with a truly monstrous Soviet Union. And we must ask: What good has revolution ever brought the people of Russia? And why should we promote one now, hoping against hope in new color revolutions"? That is the path of folly. Let us hope that Putin has the wisdom to step down at the appropriate time and to allow self-government -- beginning with active local liberty and greater glasnost and openness -- to flourish in Russia. We should neither idolize nor demonize Russia, but rather, as Timothy Colton of Harvard University has put it, hope that it can become a better version of itself. One does not advance that movement with condescension and unrelieved hostility toward Russia. Russia may not be our friend at the present moment, but it need not be our eternal enemy, as so many in the American political class have come to believe. It is time to say goodbye to illusions.
In 1900, the city of Chicago achieved an engineering marvel by reversing the flow of the Chicago River, forcing the water current away from Lake Michigan, rather than into the massive body of water. For decades, the dirty river had spilled contaminants into the Great Lakes, sickening the masses in an area dependent on lake water for drinking. Reversing that flow saved the health and vitality of the then-fastest-growing city in the world.

Now, over a century later, Chicago faces another mammoth task  reversing the sad and continual tide of human blood in its streets, far too often flowing out of the bodies of young black men. Over the weekend, an astounding 60 people were shot in the city, nine fatally. In one 2-hour period Saturday night, 25 people were shot. A paramedic interviewed by the local ABC affiliate called the town a war zone. This past weekends violence, while shocking, is hardly unprecedented in the Windy City. On the July 4 weekend of 2017, over 100 people were shot, with 14 killed.

A six-year Yale University study determined that blacks are an astounding 128 times as likely as whites to get shot in Chicago. Many factors feed into this carnage, but perhaps the most damning statistic, from a University of Illinois study, detailed that for young (age 20-24) men of color in Chicago, 47 percent of blacks and 20 percent of Hispanics are neither employed nor in school. The failures of the citys public school system monopoly have produced thousands of listless young men, unprepared for productive lives, roaming Chicago streets.

What is the response of city leadership to this frightening crisis? The all-Democratic City Council seems largely unfazed, content to raise taxes, adding to the already-unsustainable debt, in order to cater to public sector unions. For Mayor Rahm Emanuel, deflection serves better than solutions. He was feted by an adoring New York studio audience as he proudly declared to Stephen Colbert that Chicago is a Trump-free zone.

Well, Mr. Mayor, I hope that situation soon changes, and I urge the president to take expedited action in the very city youve neglected, sir.

Mr. President, children in a once-great American city cannot play in parks without fear and cannot attend schools where they can thrive. As a constitutionalist, I instinctively defer to federalism and prefer local control, but this situation spirals downward with such ferocity that federal intervention represents the only stabilizing remedy, especially in light of the cowardice of local leaders.

For the near term, our city needs military troops to guard streets in the most dangerous areas. Soldiers have historically been deployed after riots to achieve calm, and Chicagos current riot is merely a slow-motion one. In addition, with the school year starting soon, a show of protective force  with many of the service members themselves black and brown  would assuage nervous parents. The president should also direct Attorney General Jeff Sessions to personally lead a task force located in Chicago to flood the city with assistance in the coming months, leveraging all the federal governments powers of law enforcement. Longer term, we desperately need school choice and aggressive urban enterprise zones to encourage investment in the most blighted neighborhoods of the west and south sides.

In addition to protecting the precious lives of American citizens, such moves would also reap political gains. The Trump economic boom is already proving incredibly beneficial for minorities, sending black and Hispanic job markets to record highs. As a result, recent polling shows a surge of support among both black and Hispanic approval of President Trump. The burgeoning economic progress, combined with serious overtures to help the embattled minority communities of Chicago, would surely engender further political goodwill for Trump.

Chicago has, quite literally, rebuilt from the ashes of tragedy before. After the massive fire in 1871, visionary urban planner Daniel Burnham encouraged leaders to make no little plans. We can again think big and resurrect this city that represents the literal and figurative heart of this great country -- and help from Donald Trump could prove decisive.
With Republicans at a historic high in control of state legislatures, Democrats are poised to make up lost ground in the 2018 midterm elections.

Democrats are going to have a wave this year, said Tim Storey, senior political analyst for the National Conference of State Legislators. The question is the size of it.

Democrats badly need a big wave. During the eight years of the Obama presidency they lost 958 state legislative seats, 12 governorships, 62 House seats and 11 U.S. Senate seats. These losses had consequences, particularly in the states. With Congress frequently gridlocked, Republican legislative majorities pushed through a largely conservative agenda in many states on issues ranging from abortion restrictions to tax reductions.

Going into this years midterms, Republicans hold a 33-16 edge in governorships. (Gov. Bill Walker of Alaska is an independent.) The GOP controls both legislative chambers in 32 states with Democrats controlling 14 and party control split in four states.

History is on the Democrats side. Briefing legislators on the final day of an NCSL conference in Los Angeles last week, Storey observed that in 27 of 29 midterm elections since 1902, the party out of power in the White House had made gains averaging 412 legislative seats.

Midterms are inevitably a referendum on the president. As such, gains for the out-of-power party have been relatively slight when the president had an approval rating of 56 percent or higher in Gallup surveys. When approval ratings fell below that threshold, the party of the president suffered massive losses.

In 2010, a breakthrough midterm for Republicans, the GOP took control of Congress and picked up 680 state legislative seats, capturing 20 legislative chambers that had been held by Democrats. President Obamas approval rating at the time in the Gallup survey was 44 percent. President Trumps approval rating in the latest Gallup survey was 40 percent; it is 43.1 percent in the RealClearPolitics poll average.

Based on this historical record, Democrats could be poised for a big win in 2018.

Results of state legislative elections held since Trump became president also point to a possible Democratic breakthrough. Democrats have won 42 seats previously held by Republicans, who won seven previously Democratic seats. The Democratic victories include unexpected gains of 15 seats in the Virginia House of Delegates last November.

Storey says Democrats have an edge in finances and in voters motivated by an intense dislike of Trump. Republican advantages include a robust economy and the possibility Trump will fire up his base by campaigning for endangered GOP candidates, as he has promised to do.

Republicans recognize theyre in trouble. It does feel very much like 2010 reversed to me right now, said Gov. Bill Haslam of Tennessee, the head of the Republican Governors Association, interviewed in late July at a national conference of governors. Theres a lot more conviction about voting on the Democrat side than our side, which is a concern to us.

Democrats have numerous opportunities in governors races. The latest RCP poll averages give Democrats a chance to win 11 governorships now held by Republicans. Democrats are favored in four of these races and the other seven are listed as tossups.

In New Mexico, where current Republican Gov. Susana Martinez is term-limited, Rep. Michelle Lujan Grisham, chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, is the nations first Democratic Latina nominee for governor. Shes favored over Trump supporter Steve Pearce, one of many conservative Republicans elected to the U.S. House in 2010.

Eight of the 11 endangered Republican governorships are open seats, historically easier to win than governorships defended by an incumbent. In addition to New Mexico, the open governorships are in Florida, Georgia, Maine, Michigan, Nevada, Ohio and Tennessee.

Three Republican governors seeking re-election face stiff challenges. The most endangered is millionaire Gov. Bruce Rauner of Illinois, who trails in polls to Democratic billionaire J.B. Pritzker, heir to the Hyatt hotel fortune. Spending in this race has already exceeded $200 million; its likely to be the most expensive governors race of all time.

The other two GOP governors with stiff challenges are Doug Ducey of Arizona and Scott Walker of Wisconsin. Their Democratic opponents will be chosen in primaries later this month.

Noteworthy among the Democratic nominees is Stacey Abrams of Georgia, the first African-American woman in the nation to be nominated for governor by a major party. Shes an underdog against the GOP nominee, Secretary of State Brian Kemp.

No Democratic-held governorship at this point is listed as endangered, but Republicans have potential opportunities in Colorado and Connecticut, where Democratic governors are termed out. Republican Walker Stapleton faces Democrat Jared Polis in the former; that latters primary is Aug.14.

Storey, who has an impressive forecasting record in state legislative elections, said that with more than 90 days remaining before the elections its too early to say whether 2018 will prove to be the tsunami for Democrats that 2010 was for Republicans. Democrats will gain, he said, but are so far behind it may take more than one election to achieve parity with Republicans.

As Storey sees it, Democrats in a normal wave could win both houses in Arizona if theyre able to energize Latino voters. They have a solid chance of winning the Colorado Senate, where Republicans hold a one-vote majority, and the Connecticut Senate, which is tied.

Other possible Democratic legislative pickups in a normal-size wave would include the New Hampshire Senate and House, the Maine and Wisconsin senates, the New York Senate. Although Democrats technically have a majority in the New York Senate, power is wielded by a Republican-leaning coalition.

Storey said that in a big wave Democrats would also have a shot at winning the houses in Minnesota and Pennsylvania, the senates in Florida and Iowa and both houses in Michigan.

More is at stake than bragging rights. These elections mark the beginning of the battle for statehouse control in the next decade. In 2021 new legislative and congressional maps based on the 2020 census will be drawn by legislatures, many of them subject to veto by the governor. (Thirteen states redistrict legislatures by independent commissions; seven do so for U.S. House districts.)

Thirty-two of the 34 governors who will be elected in November will be in office when the new districts are drawn. (New Hampshire and Vermont have two-year gubernatorial terms.) More than 800 of the legislators who are elected this year will also be in office.

Winning the U.S. House of Representatives remains the No. 1 Democratic priority in 2018. But what happens in the less-publicized state legislative and gubernatorial elections may have more far-reaching consequences.
Has there ever been a president as obscene as Donald Trump -- a president as obtuse, as ignorant, as base, as dishonest, as indifferent to precedent, as contemptuous of civil liberties, as critical of his own government and officials, as brutish, as cold to consequences, as hostile to the media, as casually racist and as self-centered? The answer is no. For comparisons, you have to look abroad.

Ah, but no. We are admonished from doing that. This is America, and it is special, and it does not swoon for demagogues. It has gone through hard times, sure -- the Civil War and the Great Depression and the Red Scare following World War I and the Russian Revolution, and the McCarthy period following the onset of the Cold War. It has done terrible things to the Indians, enslaved blacks and thereafter remained exuberantly racist both in custom and law. It incarcerated Japanese-Americans and for a time was so deeply anti-Semitic that it turned its back on frantic Jews fleeing extermination. But overall -- and especially when compared to lots of other countries -- we have been downright marvelous. And so we insist.

But did you see Trump at his rallies in Tampa, Florida and Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania? The usual litany of lies and invective and the standard slander of the press were upped a notch. This time it was more personal. "Horrible, horrendous people," he said of reporters in Pennsylvania. "Fake, fake, disgusting news," he said of their product. CNN's Jim Acosta was menaced by the crowd in Tampa. It stood behind him chanting "CNN sucks" and the president not only did not call for order -- did not, in other words, act presidential -- but later when his son Eric tweeted a picture of it all, Trump retweeted his approval.

There has never been anything like this in America. We have suffered the occasional regional or third-party fool running for president -- the racists Strom Thurmond and George C. Wallace come to mind. But American presidents were there to thwart them, to bottle them up. No president has ever held the rallies Trump has. The outpouring of venom, the toying with violence gives them an old newsreel cast. We have seen such faces here, contorted in the ecstasy of hate. Yes, in 1957 when nine black kids enrolled in Little Rock's Central High School. Yes, nine years later when Martin Luther King Jr. took his movement to Chicago. It has taken Trump to revive the face of American hate.

The president's party has fallen into line. His press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders refused to say if she agrees that the media is "the enemy of the people" -- Trump's term of deep totalitarian provenance. But from much of the GOP came cowed silence. Trump has transformed the GOP into an updated Know-Nothing Party -- anti-immigrant, for sure, but anti-science as well. Few dare criticize him. Those who do face defeat in primaries, and those who don't, vie for his endorsement. Northern liberals once trafficked with Southern segregationists, but this is different. This is now.

Look at Trump's comments on the prosecution of Paul Manafort. He has tweeted that "Attorney General Jeff Sessions should stop this Rigged Witch Hunt right now." It is the Trumpian version of Henry II's "who will rid me of this troublesome priest" which led to the murder of Thomas Becket. Who will be surprised if Trump pardons Manafort? No one can stop him. Paul Ryan would make a face and Mitch McConnell would mildly denounce it, but the rest of the GOP would roll over, puppy-like, so Trump could scratch its stomach.

Trump has debased the presidency. He has removed America from its moral and practical leadership role in world affairs. Like a bratty kid, he has spit-balled foreign leaders -- Angela Merkel, Theresa May, Justin Trudeau, Emmanuel Macron -- mocking them for their principles. Yet, he has nothing bad to say about Vladimir Putin, the neo-Romanov ruler of Russia and soon, maybe, of the so-called "Little Russians" as well. Ukraine, beware.

He has resumed the exploitation of the wilderness and the pollution of the environment. Above all, he has polluted our politics. The swamp he vowed to drain is now fetid with even more lobbyists and rancid with his lies. He said he would make America great again, but he has reduced it in influence and conducted his presidency in a manner we have never seen before. Donald J. Trump is a new kind of American president, the sort the Founding Fathers feared. America once again has a mad king.

(c) 2018, Washington Post Writers Group
It takes a trade war for China to face its moment of truth. Before the U.S.-China trade war escalated from a skirmish to a full-frontal clash, the conventional wisdom was that China's closed one-party regime was much better positioned to withstand the political fallout from a trade war than America's fissiparous democracy.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) did not have to worry about elections, it was said. By contrast, Donald Trump's Republican Party would likely suffer from a backlash from voters hurt by Chinese retaliations.

Unfortunately for President Xi Jinping, such wisdom seems wrong. Even though Chinese trade retaliations against the U.S. have concentrated pain on the heart of Trumpland, the American farm belt in particular, the adverse impact on Trump is muted at best. Except for the faint complaints of a few Republicans, Trump's party has largely stuck by him. Indeed, the unfolding U.S.-China trade war has barely registered on America's political radar screen ahead of the fall mid-term elections.



But the story in China is entirely different. Its leaders may not have to run for office, but they are still held accountable by both public opinion and the fierce rivalry within the regime. The trade war with the U.S., to almost everybody's surprise, has triggered a heated but healthy debate on Chinese foreign and domestic policies under Xi's leadership.
The politics of Israels nation-state law are still evolving and the law might yet be amended. Objections usually concern equal status of Israels minority groups in defining Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people. Are Arab and Druze Israelis to be considered second-class citizens?

Critics have hardly noticed a deeper reach in the law, and I dont understand why because it concerns the relation of the laws provisions to creating a Palestinian state.

The law enunciates three basic principles:

The Land of Israel is the historical homeland of the Jewish people, in which the State of Israel was established. The State of Israel is the national home of the Jewish people, in which it fulfills its natural, cultural, religious and historical right to self-determination. The right to exercise national self-determination in the State of Israel is unique to the Jewish people.

Its the national in national self-determination thats the key point.

When the law says that only the Jewish people have the right to national self-determination in the State of Israel, this is not directed at the Arab Israelis or the Druze. No one thinks of somehow carving out an Arab Israeli or Druze nation-state within the boundaries of Israel.

The ban on national determination seems directed toward the possibility of a Palestinian state.

The goal is to prevent or preclude the establishment of a Palestinian state in the Land of Israel. But what is the Land of Israel? Thats the fudge. It equates to the State of Israel. The Land of Israel expands if and when the State of Israel expands.

Israels borders are not yet defined permanently in international law. That definition is meant to happen in a two-state agreement, reached through negotiations, that would also draw the boundaries of a new Palestinian state. Today the boundaries of a Palestinian state are not even temporary, because there is no Palestinian state.

What is Israels strategy? Apparently to continue settlement building, however slowly, on what Israel sees as a legal basis. The State of Israel would then be expanded by annexing new settlements in addition to the current settlements -- principally Ariel, Gush Etzion and Maale Adumim. In expanding the State of Israel, the Land of Israel expands, according to this law. The law says vaguely that Jewish settlements are a national value that the government will encourage and promote. Increasing the size of the State and Land of Israel amounts to squeezing the maximum number of West Bank Palestinians onto the minimum territory.

This is a modulated Greater Israel strategy, one that involves no outright annexation of the West Bank but also creates no space for negotiations with the Palestinians about a state.

No negotiations and no agreement form the core idea of this strategy of separation of Israel from the Palestinians. Forget the peace process and the two-state solution: Israel will act unilaterally.

Most Israelis probably now endorse the idea of separation rather than negotiation, including the opposition parties. Tzipi Livni, a prominent opposition leader, said that the opposition was ready to sign the nation-state law if there had been a small addition in wording about equal rights within Israel. It didnt happen. She said that a Netanyahu ally told her that he wanted the opposition to have to vote against the law. A majority of Israelis support the law, and Netanyahu had the votes in parliament. Forcing the opposition to vote no means the Netanyahu government appears more nationalist, more Zionist, more Israeli -- especially since most Israelis believe that dealing with the Palestinians is hopeless.

The strategy aims to stretch the Land of Israel until it is as large as Israeli opinion and the international forces at play will tolerate. The government will then solemnly and unilaterally announce that Israels borders are now complete and definitive as an expression of Israels national self-determination. Israels separation from the Palestinians will be complete. Conservative Greater Israel Prime Minister Ariel Sharon achieved a separation from Gaza when he forcibly removed Israeli settlements there in 2005. The Palestinian authority was left in charge until a subsequent election resulted in an unexpected victory for Hamas. Hamas then defeated Fatah militarily and forced them out. Hamas is still in charge, and Gaza will be treated separately from the West Bank because of it.

On the reduced West Bank, the issue will be what a rump Palestinian territory will become. An independent statelet? An autonomous republic? One entity in a confederation with, say, Israel and Jordan? It is still to be determined.

For me, the fundamental issue regarding the Palestinians is future of the Palestinian people, not a Palestinian state. Over a half century, Palestinian leaders have failed their people, and the conflict between Fatah and Hamas is only one aspect of this historic failure. Not making the concessions necessary to end Israels military occupation is another part of it.

A last consideration: Is the nation-state law necessary at all? Isnt proclaiming the State of Israel as the national homeland of the Jewish people unnecessary in the fact and unnecessarily provocative in the result?

This is arguable. It seems to me that the question mark hanging over the existence of Israel in international law and in political rejection of it by the Palestinian resistance must end. Israel should become a normal country. Fine. Now comes the trouble.

I believe that the Jewish people need a country. History shows this. Israel is still a safe haven for Jews who need one. Fifty thousand French Jews have emigrated to Israel since the year 2000. Fully 10 percent of a population of 500,000 and from a country like France decided to leave everything behind. This is not a matter of rescuing a few thousand Jews from a country like Ethiopia.

One day Israel will be a normal country. One day the Palestinian future will be clearer, resolved with the interests of the Palestinian people first. The issues of a haven for Jews in danger and of whether its provocative to call Israel the nation-state of the Jewish people will be moot.
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When it comes to politics, Athens is often described as a blue island in a sea of red. This 
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3 1 of 3 Contributed photo / Linda Tomas Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Contributed photo / Melissa Ruszczyk, DEEP Wildlife Division Show More Show Less 3 of 3





The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is asking state residents to notify DEEP Wildlife Division officials if they find a GPS (global positioning system) neck collar in their yards or while in the outdoors. As part of a DEEP Bobcat Research Project, which was initiated in fall 2017, GPS collars were placed on 50 bobcats throughout the state.

These collars have been collecting and transmitting important data about Connecticut's bobcat population. All of the collars were programmed to automatically detach from the animals on Aug. 1, 2018.
Robert L. Martin, a combat pilot who said he flew "63 and a half" missions during World War II as part of the barrier-breaking Tuskegee Airmen, was shot down over German-occupied territory on the 64th and spent five weeks trying to return to Allied lines with the help of Josip Broz Tito's anti-fascist Yugoslav partisans, died July 26 at a senior living center in Olympia Fields, Illinois. He was 99.

The cause was pneumonia, said his daughter, Gabrielle Martin.

Martin, known as "Fox," grew up in Iowa and became entranced by airplanes when he attended an air show as a 13-year-old Boy Scout. He persuaded his father to let him take a ride on a Ford Trimotor.

"And the pilot, after starting the engine, buckled me in, he touched me with a wire and shocked me, and he said, 'You're going to be a pilot,' " he remembered in a video interview for the Experimental Aircraft Association, a Wisconsin-based international association promoting recreational flying. During college, Martin completed a civilian pilot-training program, joking that for a small fee "you could get silver wings and get all the girls."

War was raging when he graduated from Iowa State University. He joined the Army Air Forces and trained at the segregated military complex in Tuskegee, Alabama, in January 1944. With the rank of lieutenant, he immediately set sail for Italy and was attached to the 100th Fighter Squadron, which helped provide cover for Allied bombers on missions over targets in Europe.

On March 3, 1945, he was one of 24 Tuskegee Airmen who climbed into their single-seat P-51 Mustang fighters from their base in Ramitelli, Italy, to conduct a rail-strafing mission in parts of Slovenia and Austria. Two pilots did not return - Martin and Alphonso Simmons.

"We flew over this airfield where there was no opposition," Martin said in 2008 at Chicago's Pritzker Military Museum & Library, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. "We saw two airplanes parked a little bit off the field, and we said, 'We'll get more credit for destroying two airplanes than shooting up a railroad train.' We went in to shoot up these planes."

Martin and Simmons were hit by antiaircraft fire. Simmons was killed.

"I said, 'I'm not going to fry, I'm going to get out of here,' " he recalled in the Pritzker talk. "I got up high enough to bail out and my beautiful parachute opened and knocked me out - cut my chin open and floated me down to earth."

He was spotted by members of Tito's partisan forces, which controlled swaths of Yugoslav territory; Tito became Yugoslavia's postwar Communist strongman. Taken to a farmhouse, Mr. Martin was greeted by one of Tito's men as a "warrior on the side of the Allies," he told the Experimental Aircraft Association. "The guy fried me an egg and gave me a glass of grappa when he found I was hungry, and just told me to sit and wait."

On March 10, he was taken to Topusko, Croatia, where he met with an Allied mission manned by British soldiers that helped downed Allied airmen. Because Topusko had natural hot springs, Mr. Martin said, it was the ideal place for recovery.

"They could take a bath in the natural hot spring bath house, get rid of all the lice and dirt and whatever, and they had clean uniforms, shoes, food to feed them, whiskey, candy, books, a safe house, there was meat and flour and all types of foodstuffs dropped in by parachute to help these downed Allied airmen," he said to the Experimental Aircraft Association.

After a month, he was airlifted to Bari, Italy, and weeks later he celebrated V-E Day in Naples. He soon embarked on a ship for home.

Robert Leander Martin was born in Dubuque, Iowa, on Feb. 9, 1919. His mother, a homemaker, died shortly after he was born. His father was a foot doctor.

He graduated from Iowa State University in 1942 with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. After his military discharge in September 1945 at the rank of captain, he became an electrical engineer with the city of Chicago. He retired in 1988.

His decorations included the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart and seven awards of the Air Medal. He was among the recipients of the Congressional Gold Medal at a 2007 ceremony honoring the Tuskegee Airmen.

Survivors include his wife of 68 years, the former Odette Ewell, of Chicago; four children, Gabrielle Martin of Denver, Noelle Martin of Chicago, Dominique Martin of Olympia Fields and Robert Martin Jr. of Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania; a sister; and two grandchildren.
WASHINGTON  West Shore Road near Lake Waramaug is closed Tuesday due to a tanker rollover, according to Connecticut State Police.

There are minor injuries, police said

Troopers responded around 10:35 a.m., they said, and found a rolled over tanker leaking diesel and antifreeze. Police said in a release there were 1,500 gallons of oil and 40 gallons of diesel in the tanks.

Firefighters and officials from the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection are on the scene, police said. There are minor injuries.
TORRINGTON  About 50 veterans in the states Northwest Corner have been awarded a Purple Heart Medal for being wounded while serving in the military.

In recognition of their sacrifice, veterans and their families, along with city and state officials, celebrated national Purple Heart Day Tuesday.

Two local recipients, Joe Ozzone and Frank Lomento, raised an official Purple Heart flag in a ceremony in front of City Hall.

Mayor Elinor Carbone noted that the practice of awarding the Purple Heart began in 1783 with Gen. George Washington. She said that 1.8 million members of the military have since received the medal.

They still bear the scars, she told the audience. The very least we can do is to take a moment on Aug. 7 of every year to remember our fallen soldiers.

Lomento was wounded in November 1966 in Vietnam.

Im proud to be here, he said.

I was wounded by land mines. We were under fire, he said. He was medevaced out of the war zone and spent 30 days in the hospital.

Ozzone also served in Vietnam. He said his unit was overrun in June 1965. We were hit very bad. There were 2,000 troops.

The city became a designated Purple Heart City, in the spring, launching a seasons worth of recognition culminating with the flag-raising ceremony. State Rep. Brian Ohler, R-North Canaan, said, The significance of raising the flag recognizes Torrington as one of only four municipalities in the state to be a Purple Heart City.

The ceremony then moved across City Hall Avenue where a new sign was unveiled. It notes that the adjacent parking space is reserved for Purple Heart recipients.

The days recognition is truly about you and your sacrifice, said state Rep. Michelle Cook, D-Torrington.

After the ceremony, guests were invited to tour the Torrington Historical Societys new exhibit, World War I in Torrington.

The national Wounded Warrior Family Support group supervises the process of designated reserved parking spaces for medal recipients. City officials said there is quite a bit of interest from businesses and restaurants to also reserve parking spaces for Purple Heart honorees.
Authorities in the central Chinese province of Hubei tried a veteran rights activist for subversion on Tuesday after holding him for 20 months in pretrial detention.



Liu Feiyue, 48, who founded the rights website Civil Rights and Livelihood Watch, stood trial at Hubei's Suizhou Intermediate People's Court on Tuesday on charges of "incitement to subvert state power."



Security was tight outside the courtroom, with a strong police presence on the streets outside the court building, Liu's supporters said.



Liu's defense attorney Wu Kuiming said he was unable to take a phone call on Tuesday, as the trial was still in session.



"It's not convenient for me to talk right now," Wu said.



The court website described Liu's case as a "public trial," with relatives present in court, as well as local political figures.



But police detained activists and supporters who tried to attend the trial, they told RFA.



"They were detaining people at the [railway and bus] stations," rights activist Wu Zhigang said. "[Hunan rights activist He] Jiawei and I went together, but they stopped Jiawei."



"When they came to detain me, they grabbed me in a hold and I fell down," he said. "After they brought us to the local police station, they questioned us about how we knew about [the trial]."



"They asked us where we were from and how we got there, details like that," he said. "Then they wrote it all down and had me sign it, before ... escorting us to the station to leave town."



Wu said only a handful of supporters had gotten as far as the court buildings, however.



He Jiawei later told RFA that that he had been put aboard a high-speed train back to his hometown.



"I had only just gotten out of the railway station on my way to attend Liu Feiyue's trial, when they shouted out my name immediately," He said. "I ignored them, and then several of them surrounded me and took me away immediately."



"After they were done taking my statement, they bought me a train ticket from Suizhou back to Hankou, and another from [there] to Zhangzhou," he added. "Then they escorted me to the train, and they didn't leave until it had pulled out of the station."



Repeated calls to the Suizhou municipal police department rang unanswered during office hours on Tuesday.



Barred from travel



Wuhan rights activist Bao Naigang said he was warned off traveling to Suizhou for the trial two days earlier.



"I received a warning, and I'm certain that a large number of other people did too," Bao told RFA on Tuesday. "Someone from the stability maintenance team has been visiting me in the mornings; I think my stability maintenance priority must have gotten higher."



"They told me very clearly that I couldn't go to Suizhou."



Shanghai rights activist Cheng Yulan said she had also been prevented from leaving her home to attend the trial by state security police.



"I didn't go," Cheng said. "They wouldn't let me; they wouldn't let me leave my home."



Veteran activist



Liu has been targeted for police harassment since he founded Civil Rights and Livelihood Watch in 2006, and has been routinely detained or placed under house arrest during politically sensitive events.



Volunteers at the Civil Rights and Livelihood Watch offices had previously said that Liu also stands accused of receiving overseas funding to run the group.



Liu was initially detained on Nov. 17, 2016, and placed under criminal investigation for "incitement to subvert state power."



President Xi Jinping has repeatedly warned against "hostile foreign forces" attempting to overthrow the ruling Chinese Communist Party by infiltrating China with "Western" religious practices and ideas like democracy, constitutional government, and human rights.



Liu was among more than 300 lawyers, law firm staff, rights activists, and relatives who were detained, questioned, or placed under surveillance or other restrictions in a nationwide police operation targeting the legal profession and related activists launched in July 2015.



Reported by Wong Lok-to for RFA's Cantonese Service, and by Yang Fan for the Mandarin Service. Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (L) and China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) smile before a bilateral meeting at the 51st ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Singapore, Aug. 3, 2018.

The United States must step up its involvement in Southeast Asia by adopting a comprehensive strategy with security, economic, and governance components to defend its interests and ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, according to a report released Tuesday by a conservative U.S.-based think tank.

Southeast Asia holds geopolitical importance on account of the sea lanes that pass through it, its proximity to China and India, and the resources which it contains  all of which have driven developments in and competition over the region for hundreds of years, says the report by the Washington, D.C.-based American Enterprise Institute (AEI), which conducts public policy research.

The 68-page report titled An American Strategy for Southeast Asia outlines a framework for a comprehensive U.S. strategy in Southeast Asia, a region comprised of 635 million people in 11 countries, which has been increasingly affected in recent years by Chinas growing economic and military might.

The Trump administration has rolled out an Indo-Pacific strategy to remodel the U.S. approach to the region in an effort to manage Chinas militarization in the South China Sea and Indian Ocean and growing Chinese economic power with its multitrillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative for infrastructure development in Eurasia and Southeast Asia.

Chinas claims to disputed territory in the South China Sea and its military buildup on man-made islands pose a security threat not only to its Southeast Asian neighbors, but also to American interests in the region, given their potential to draw the U.S. into the tussles, the report says.

AEI suggests that the U.S. try to proactively shape the security situation in Southeast Asia in ways that are conducive to peace and stability, such as making itself available as a mediator to states if the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) fails to maintain peace.

A region at peace with itself and with others will deny unfriendly external powers opportunities to exploit divisions and will ensure an environment in which Southeast Asias political and economic development can advance at a faster pace, to the benefit of Southeast Asia and Americans alike, the report says.

The report also notes that because Southeast Asia as a whole has not yet embraced free trade and the free flow of capital, the U.S. should aim to reshape the region so that it embraces free-market economics and is more deeply integrated in international trade.

Such integration will ultimately lead to greater prosperity in the region, more opportunities for American businesses, and international competition that will benefit American consumers, the report says. Such integration will contribute to greater regional stability as well.

Good governance over democratization

The report also suggests that the U.S. consider prioritizing good governance over democratization, which has proceeded sporadically in recent years in the Philippines and Indonesia, and which is nonexistent in the communist nations of Vietnam and Laos.

Because the region as a whole is in the midst of a transition from authoritarian to democratic rule, a process that the U. S. has supported, about 360 million people are living in democratically developing states, but the remainder live in countries with limited freedoms or say over who governs them, the report says.

[A] broader and deeper embrace of free markets and of responsive and accountable government would undergird Americas pursuit of its security objectives in the region, the report says.

To encourage this, the U.S should define a trade agenda for the region through bilateral free trade agreements, increased engagement with ASEAN, and expanded involvement in regional development banks, including the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Japan-led Asian Development Bank.

The report also recommends that the U.S. provide humanitarian aid and accept refugees from the region to mitigate the effects of migration crises from both natural and man-made disasters.

It advises Washington to continue to press for a United Nations Security Council resolution condemning violence by Myanmars military, such as the two crackdowns on Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine state in 2016 and 2017 that drove roughly 800,000 refugees into neighboring Bangladesh and subjected others to killings, torture, and rape.

The resolution would impose an arms embargo on Myanmar until the national military stops targeting civilians in Rakhine and in other parts of the country and until international monitors are allowed into Myanmar, the report said.

A free and open Southeast Asia is crucial if the United States wants to achieve its broader goals in the region, said Michael Mazza, the author of the report, who is an AEI visiting fellow specializing in U.S. defense policy in the Asia-Pacific region.

DoD weighs in

The report was issued publicly days after U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo attended the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Singapore, where he pledged U.S.$290 million in new security funding for Southeast Asia as a counterbalance to Chinas plans to step up its engagement in the region.

The Association for Southeast Asian Nations is comprised of 10 Southeast Asian countries, with East Timor included in gatherings as an observer. The foreign ministers of ASEANs dialogue partners, including the U.S., China, Japan, South Korea, and Russia, also attended the meeting.

Randall Schriver, assistant secretary of defense for Asian and Pacific security affairs, said the reports language is well-aligned with the U.S. Defense Departments strategy in the region.

We seek to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region where nations with diverse cultures and different aspirations can prosper side by side in freedom, peace, and stability, he said at a press briefing on Tuesday, adding that countries should be free from coercion and able to protect their sovereignty.

At the national level, we mean that societies are increasingly free in terms of good governance and fundamental human rights and liberties, he said.

By open, we mean that all nations can enjoy freedom  freedom of the seas and the airways and all share a commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes, he said. Free also means more open investment environments and improved connectivity to drive regional integration and prosperity.

The Defense Department has increased its engagement in Southeast Asia, and its routine military presence is a source of vital regional stability, he said, adding that the U.S. military ensures freedom of navigation protection, conducts daily joint and multilateral military exercises and operations, and provides foreign military financing to countries in the region.

Overall, were doing a great deal in Southeast Asia and are confident that we are well-positioned for the long-term strategic competition that is unfolding in the Indo-Pacific region, he said. Our strategy is an affirmative, positive one and its inclusive. And while its not aimed at any particular country, there should be little doubt that much of the Chinese behavior is demonstrating objectives that run counter to our objectives for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

We seek a positive results-oriented military and security relationship with Beijing, but Chairman Xi Jinping and the CCP [Chinese Communist Party] need to understand that while we seek cooperation where our interests align, we will compete where we must.
In a move aimed at evading U.N. sanctions, North Korea is exporting coal to foreign buyers by sending shipments first to Russian ports, where the coal is falsely labeled as Russian-origin, North Korean sources say.



The export of North Korean coal is strictly banned under international sanctions punishing Pyongyang for its illicit nuclear weapons program, but North Korea has now opened new routes for trade with Russian help, a trade worker in North Pyongan province told RFAs Korean Service.



As sanctions on North Korea came into effect a couple of years ago, export routes for coal were blocked, RFAs source said, speaking on condition of anonymity.



So North Korean trading companies have been shipping coal to the ports of Nakhodka and Vladivostok in the southern part of Primorsky Krai, in Russia. North Korean coal is then disguised as having come from Russia and is sent on to other countries under fake documents, he said.



Loading ports for North Korean coal were formerly at Nampo and Songrim, on North Koreas west coast close to China, but have now been moved to Chongjin and Wonsan, on the countrys eastern coast close to Russia, he said.



When North Korean coal arrives at Nakhodka, a Russian company records its time of arrival, the length of the ships stay in port, and the amount of coal taken off. They then create false papers including a statement of the coals quality, he said.



With these documents declaring the coal to be of Russian origin, North Korea now has no problem exporting coal to other countries, he said.



The name of the Russian company that my company has been working with is Greenwich, and is located at the port in Nakhodka, RFAs source said. They ask for two dollars per ton to disguise North Korean coal as Russian, and the North Korean trading company pays them right away.



Still in demand



Also speaking to RFA, a North Korean trade worker based in the Chinese border city of Dandong said that North Korean representatives based in South and North Pyongan provinces collect information on countries needing coal and act as brokers for its export.



Coal from these western-district mines is very high quality, so there is still a demand for it from other countries even though sanctions are in force, he said.



A 30 percent deposit from the buying countries is required before the coal begins to move, with 30 percent of the balance due when the coal leaves its Russian port. The remaining 40 percent is then paid when the coal arrives at its final destination, the source said.



For this three-step payment process, the money is deposited in a borrowed Chinese bank account, with the North Korean trading company paying banking fees, he said.



Some of the coal sent from Russia now goes to South Korea and Japan, RFAs source said.



But North Korean company names dont appear on the shipping papers, so the North Korean trading firms arent worried at all, he said.



Resolve questioned



South Koreas foreign ministry on Tuesday dismissed allegations that a foreign-flagged ship seen earlier at Nakhodka had delivered North Korean coal to South Koreas southeastern port of Pohang, claiming the ships cargo was of Russian origin, according to an Aug. 7 report by the Yonhap news service.



Critics here question the left-leaning Moon Jae-in administrations resolve to curb the transport of North Korean coal, a source of hard currency for the sanctions-hit Pyongyang regime, Yonhap said.



But the government has stated that it remains committed to strictly abiding by U.N. mandates despite inter-Korean reconciliation, Yonhap added.



The United States has meanwhile pointed to what it calls credible reports that Russia is in violation of U.N. sanctions against North Korea, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Aug. 4 urging full compliance with measures aimed at forcing the North to give up its nuclear weapons program.



Reported by Hyemin Son for RFAs Korean Service. Translated by Leejin Jun. Written in English by Richard Finney.
UPDATED at 4:45 PM. EDT on 2018-08-07

Laos has suspended consideration of new hydropower projects in the country pending reviews of development policy after the breach of a dam last month left at least 34 dead with 100 still missing, Lao sources say.



The announcement followed an August 6-7 meeting of the countrys cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith at which plans were also made to carry out safety inspections of all hydropower projects already built or under construction in the Southeast Asian country.



Inspections will be conducted by the Ministry of Energy and Mines, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, and the Ministry of Science and Technology with the help of international experts, the Vientiane Times said in an August 8 report.



Any irregularities found in the design or construction standard of a dam must be reported to the government on a case by case basis, so that improvements can be made, the Times said.



Lao villagers displaced by flooding following the dams collapse are meanwhile filling temporary tent shelters in Attapeu provinces Sanamxay district as concerns mount over health and sanitary conditions at the site, Lao sources say.



Diseases now spreading among the nearly 3,000 residents of the camp include diarrhea, eye infections, and skin rashes, Onphiew Phothilathleader of a health-care team in Sanamxaytold RFAs Lao Service on August 6.



Depression, too, is a common condition in the camp, Onphiew said.



The diseases are preventable and curable, but the emotional pain the villagers are experiencing cant be treated and will take time to heal.



Some villagers with symptoms of depression may never be cured, because their family members have died, he said, adding that clean water and toilet facilities are now urgently needed in the camp.



Many left behind



On July 23, water poured over a saddle dam at the Xe Pian Xe Namnoy hydropower project in Champassak province, sweeping away homes and causing severe flooding in up to 12 villages downstream in Champassak and neighboring Attapeu province.



Despite early warnings of a possible breach due to heavy rainfall, many were left behind in their homes when Saddle Dam D collapsed, prompting questions about the evacuation process and what was known about the dams structural integrity before the disaster struck.



On July 26, a high-ranking Lao official suggested that the collapse was the result of faulty construction and said the projects developer should be held accountable.



Laos and many other Asian countries have been on a dam-building spree in recent years as they try to harness the power of the Mekong and other rivers.



While the Lao government sees power generation as a way to boost the countrys economy, the projects are still controversial for their environmental impacts and financial arrangements.



Another dam failure



On Sept. 11, 2017, hundreds of thousands of cubic feet of muddy water flooded eight villages in central Laos' Xaysomboun province after the reservoir of the Nam Ao Dam upstream burst its banks following heavy rain.



Central and regional government officials held the project developer legally responsible for repairing damage to electrical networks and water supplies, calling the reservoir's construction "not standard."



According to International Rivers, an environmental advocacy group, the current Lao hydropower development plan includes 72 new large dams, 12 of which are under construction and nearly 25 in advanced planning stages.



The Lao government says the dams will help pay for anti-poverty and other social welfare programs, but International Rivers asserts that much of the power generated by Laos is sold to neighboring countries and then resold to Laos at higher rates.

Down river from Laos in neighboring Cambodia, many of the 5,000 people affected by the flood from the Lao dam collapse have begun to demand compensation for lost farmland, crops and livestock. One military officer died transporting supplies for flood victims by motorcycle.

More than 1,200 families from four communes in Siem Pang district, in Stung Treng province, which borders Laos, have raised grave concerns over fears of a food crisis after their crops and animals were washed away by the flood waters

The flood destroyed everything and caused shortages of food. Our rice paddies had been hit by floods three consecutive years and again in 2018, Chamreoun Sambo, a villager from Sekong commune, Siem Pang district, told RFAs Khmer Service. He lost three hectares of rice plant and his roads were washed away.

Sekong commune chief said that more than 400 families suffered from the flood caused by the dam collapse, losing more than 400 rice paddies. Villagers were receiving some donated food from the government and civic groups.

Leang Bun Leap, executive director of 3S Rivers Protection Network, called on Cambodian authorities to assert the countrys right to seek compensation under a 1995 agreement by Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand to establish the Mekong River Commission.

The hydroelectric dam benefits Laos, but the Cambodian people suffer, so the Lao government and the dam construction company as well as the construction funder must be liable for all the damages, Leang Bun Leap told RFA.

Reported by RFAs Lao and Khmer Services. Translated by Ounkeo Souksavanh and Sok Ry Sum. Written in English by Richard Finney.
A popular Tibetan horse race festival has reopened in Lithang in western Chinas Sichuan province after being banned for 10 years following a protest calling for the return of the Dalai Lama to Tibet, Tibetan sources say.



The festival, which traditionally draws large crowds for eight to nine days, was allowed by Chinese authorities to run for only three days this year, though, a Tibetan living in India told RFAs Tibetan Service.



The festival also saw a heightened presence of Chinese security forces, including Public Security Bureau officers and armed police, Lithang native Geshe Jamyang Nyima said, citing local sources.



This years festival began on Aug. 1 and was organized not by Tibetans but by Chinese authorities to showcase the living standards of Lithang residents, Nyima said.



While participants in the festival were all volunteers in the past, this year the Chinese government handed out payment of 200 yuan [U.S. $30 approx.] to everyone taking part, including participants in cultural performances, he said.



This was political propaganda, and nothing else, Nyima said.



The Lithang festival had been closed for 10 years following the Aug. 1, 2007 protest by a Tibetan nomad named Runggye Adrak, who had taken over the stage to address the large crowd through a microphone, urging China to allow exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama to return to Tibet.



After that, the Chinese banned the festival, Nyima said.



Sentenced in November 2007 to an eight-year term for inciting to split the country and subverting state power, Adrak was released in July 2015.



Adraks detention following his 2007 protest drew hundreds of Tibetan protesters into police and government office compounds in Lithang, prompting police at one point to threaten to shoot into the crowd.



Authorities managed to negotiate an uneasy truce, but security forces then converged on Lithang in large numbers, and local Tibetan Communist Party officials in the area were replaced with Han Chinese.



Adrak was severely beaten and tortured in detention, and was later confined in Sichuans Mianyang prison, the India-based Tibetan Centre for Human Rights (TCHRD) and Democracy said in a statement following his release.



Reported by Guru Choegyi for RFAs Tibetan Service. Translated by Dorjee Damdul. Written in English by Richard Finney.
Authorities at a prison in Vietnams Bien Hoa province are threatening female protesters who seek to appeal the jail sentences they were handed last month for their roles in a rare, large-scale demonstration over two controversial government policies, their lawyer said Tuesday.



The women are among a group of 20 protesters who were sentenced from eight months up to one and a half years in prison on July 30 for disrupting public order in the June 10 protest in southeast Vietnams Dong Nai province, which official media in Vietnam said had blocked roads and created traffic jams on major highways in the area.



Dang Dinh Manh, the lawyer who represented the 20 defendants in their trial last month at the Bien Hoa City Peoples Court, told RFAs Vietnamese Service that the women among the group are being ill-treated in prison.



I was told by their families that the female defendants have faced intimidation from the prisons authorities, who warned them that if they want to appeal their verdict they would be subjected to sexually transmitted diseases, he said.



I am very upset, because this is a serious violation of the law.



Manh said that he had sent a petition to the provincial police to complain about the threats his clients had received.



He said he had also met with prison officials who told him that there was no evidence that the defendants had faced intimidation, but promised to conduct an investigation of the claims.



Nguyen Thi Kim Vui, the sister of defendants Nguyen Thi Ngoc Phuong and Nguyen Thi Truc Anh, said that during a visit with her siblings, they cried to me, saying [the prison guards] told them that, but acknowledged that I dont know if its true.



Vui said her sisters suggested they were told not to appeal, but are planning to do so anyway.



On June 9 and 10, protests rocked major Vietnamese cities including Hanoi and Saigon, also called Ho Chi Minh City, as demonstrators challenged government plans to grant long-term leases for foreign companies operating in special economic zones (SEZs) and the adoption of a controversial cybersecurity law.



The protests prompted clashes with police that saw demonstrators beaten and an unknown number detained.



Calls for probe and release



Manhs claims came a day after London-based rights group Amnesty International called on authorities in Vietnam to launch an independent probe into the death of a farmer who took part in the protests, amid reports that he was tortured in police custody.



A local rights group has said that Hua Hoang Anh, a 35-year-old farmer from Kien Giang province died after four police officers visited his home in Chau Thanh district on Aug. 2 to question him about his involvement in the protests, citing his wife who claims she returned from making them tea to find him collapsed with some injuries to his neck and belly.



While the group suggested that Anh may have died of hemorrhaging, police in Ken Giang have said the farmer committed suicide. Local authorities reportedly forced Anhs family to bury him the following day.



The claims of intimidation in prison also follow a declaration signed over the weekend by five local civil society organizations and some 50 individuals calling on the government to immediately release the dozens of people detained and convicted in recent weeks for their part in the protests.



According to the Aug. 4 declaration, a copy of which was recently obtained by RFA, 52 people have been taken into custody by the police since the protests, including the 20 people convicted in Bien Hoa.



We demand the government of Vietnam to immediately release all people who joined the peaceful protest against the SEZ and cybersecurity laws on June 10, the document reads.



Bien Hoa City should release all 20 people who were convicted in the July 30 trial and annul their sentences, return all property belonging to protesters which was confiscated by the police or court, apologize to the protesters, and compensate protesters who have been illegally detained, it said.



The declaration also called on Vietnams National Assembly, a rubber-stamp parliament, to ensure that legal protections for demonstrators are upheld, according to stipulations in the countrys constitution.



Rights group Amnesty International estimates that at least 97 prisoners of conscience are currently held in Vietnams prisons, where many are subjected to torture or other ill-treatment.



Reported by RFAs Vietnamese Service. Translated by Viet Ha. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.
KYIV -- Belarusian authorities have raided the Minsk offices of two independent news outlets and detained three journalists, claiming they illegally obtained information from a state-run news agency.

The Council of Europe human rights body on August 7 expressed "great concern" over the raid and detentions, which mark the latest moves in a broad crackdown on media that report critically of strongman President Alyaksandr Lukashenka and his government.

Tut.by, Belarus's largest online news outlet, reported early on August 7 that Minsk police officers had presented a warrant to search its offices and the those of BelaPan as part of the inquiry into the illegal access to information on the website of state-run BelTA news agency, which reports favorably about Lukashenka.

The Belarusian Investigative Committee said in a statement published on its website that computers from within the Tut.by and BelaPan offices, as well as those from a third outlet, Belarusskaya Nauka, used an account and password other than their own to access the paid-subscriber section of BelTA.

The committee said it had opened a criminal case after an inspection by Interior Ministry officers that uncovered 15,000 instances of unauthorized access to BelTA's exclusive section, where breaking news is often published five to 10 minutes before it hits the agency's public wire.

"The crime inflicted considerable damage" on BelTA, "leading to the illegal procurement and use of information protected from unauthorized access, as well as to the erosion of the enterprise's business reputation," the Investigative Committee said.

Marina Zolotova, editor in chief of Tut.by; Hanna Kaltyhina, Tut.by's production editor; and Tatyana Korovenkova, a BelaPAN journalist, were detained as persons of interest, according to the committee and the journalists' respective outlets.

Speaking to Belarusian news outlet Nasha Niva, BelTA Director Irina Akulovich called the journalists' actions "plain theft" and said they "did not pay money, but they used other people's passwords" to access the site's exclusive content.

According to Tut.by, the office raid began in the morning, with law enforcement agents blocking access to the outlets' several floors and preventing journalists from carrying out their work.

Tut.by, Belarus's largest online news source, reported that several documents had been seized while some employees were summoned to the Investigative Committee for questioning.

A statement issued by the spokesperson for the Council of Europes secretary-general called on the Belarusian authorities to conduct a quick investigation in the case and to free all the detained journalists.

"Legislation must be respected but investigations do not always require arrests which should be used as an ultimate tool," it said.

"Freedom of media is one of the most important human rights in a democratic society," the statement also said. "It should be thoroughly respected everywhere in Europe."

The raids and detentions were merely the latest moves by Belarusian authorities targeting independent news outlets that report critically of them and Lukashenka.

In June, Belarusian lawmakers passed controversial amendments to the country's media laws that they claimed were necessary to combat "fake news." The New York-based Committee To Protect Journalists* (CPJ) said the amendments were likely to lead to further censorship of the press in Belarus.

In July, a Minsk court sentenced Belarusian journalist Dzmitry Halko to four years in a guarded dormitory and forced labor after convicting him of assaulting two police officers. Halko told RFE/RL in an interview after his sentencing that he is innocent and said the case against him was retribution for his critical stance against Lukashenka and authorities.

Also in July, Natallya Radzina, the Poland-based chief editor of Charter97, another independent news site that is critical of Lukashenka, reported receiving death threats, which she believes is related to her work.

Other journalists and bloggers have been harassed and detained in recent months, according to the CPJ. Even more have been fined, according to the Paris-based media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

RSF ranked Belarus 155th in its 2017 World Press Freedom Index, which evaluates the level of press freedom in 180 countries each year.

*NOTE: Christopher Miller is also a correspondent for the Committee to Protect Journalists
The U.S. military* says it is investigating reports that at least nine Afghan police officers were killed in a U.S. air strike during a battle against Taliban insurgents in eastern Afghanistan.

Interior Ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi earlier said nine police were killed and 14 wounded in the strike in the Azra district of Logar Province.

During the overnight battle, police "called in air support but unfortunately foreign forces mistakenly bombed their positions," Rahimi said.

The Taliban also suffered heavy losses, he said.

U.S. Forces-Afghanistan confirmed U.S. forces had conducted an air strike "in defense of Afghan forces" in Azra district but did not mention casualties.

"We are looking into the matter further," spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Martin O'Donnell said.

There are about 14,000 U.S. ground troops in Afghanistan, making up the bulk of Resolute Support.

Also in Logar Province, four women were shot dead and four children were wounded when they were caught in the crossfire during a battle between militants and Afghan troops.

Hasibullah Stanikzai, a provincial council member, said the incident occurred on August 6 near Pul-e Alim, the provincial capital.

Meanwhile, at least 14 police officers were killed in the Qiagh Valley of the southeastern Ghazni Province on August 6 after suspected Taliban insurgents attacked a series of checkpoints.

The attack set off a firefight that lasted over two hours, said Nasir Ahmad Faqiri, a provincial council member.

In the western Farah Province, four Afghan soldiers were killed and six were wounded in an attack by Taliban militants on a checkpoint, a local official said.

Mohammad Naser Mehri, the provincial governor's spokesman, says the attack began late on August 6 and lasted into the morning of August 7 in the Bala Buluk district.

The Afghan air force was called in and air strikes later killed 19 Taliban fighters and wounded 30, Mehri said.

*CORRECTION: This article was amended to correct the organization in charge of the investigation.

With reporting by AP, AFP, dpa, and Reuters
ZARINSK, Russia -- A fourth resident of Russia's Altai region in Siberia has been charged with inciting hatred via posts on the Internet.

Anton Angel told RFE/RL that police searched his house and his mother's house in the town of Zarinsk on August 6, confiscating his mobile phones, computers, and flash cards.

He said he was then taken to the police station where interrogators attempted to make him confess that he incited hatred on the Internet. After he refused, he was informed that a number of pictures on his VKontakte social-network account contained elements of anti-Semitism.

Angel said investigators ordered him to undergo a psychiatric examination in a clinic. He said the case against him was politically motivated and related to his civil-rights activities.

Angel is the fourth resident of the region in southern Siberia charged with extremism and inciting hatred over social-media posts.

On August 6, Maria Motuznaya, a 23-year-old resident of the region's capital, Barnaul, went on trial over social-media memes that prosecutors allege contained hate speech and insulted religious believers.

Another Barnaul resident, Daniil Markin, a 19-year-old film student, was charged with inciting hate speech over a VKontakte meme likening Jesus Christ to Jon Snow, a character in the U.S. television show Game Of Thrones.

On August 3, a 38-year-old resident of Barnaul, Andrei Shasherin, was charged with inciting hatred via posting caricatures on his account in VKontakte.

In another Siberian region, Tuva, a local journalist and civil rights activist, Oyumaa Dongak, was detained and charged with inciting hatred and propagating Nazism for placing four years ago a historical picture of young Nazi-era German women waving flags with a swastika in a post in VKontakte comparing the Soviet system with that of Nazi Germany.

Dongak wrote on Facebook that she was briefly detained on August 6 and informed that a criminal case was launched against her.

Russia's crackdown on online speech has been broadening in recent years, and rights advocates say it's intended to stifle dissent and help law enforcement officials rack up convictions.

On August 6, the Russian Internet services company Mail.Ru Group called on the authorities to change legislation criminalizing hate speech on social media and to grant amnesty to those who have been "unjustly convicted" under it.

The Mail.Ru Group, whose businesses include a popular e-mail service and a search engine, is controlled by Kremlin-friendly oligarch Alisher Usmanov.
Britain is preparing to ask Russia to extradite two men it suspects carried out a nerve-agent attack on a former Russian spy in the city of Salisbury, The Guardian newspaper has reported.

The newspaper, citing unnamed government and security sources, said on August 6 that U.K. prosecutors had completed an extradition request and it is ready for submission. The Russian Embassy in Britain said it had not received an official request from London.

The Guardian reported that an investigation by hundreds of British police and intelligence officers pieced together the movements of the two Russians, from their entry into Britain through their departure.

Britain's Home Office and Crown Prosecution Service declined to comment on the report.

Britain's Press Association news agency reported last month that police had identified two Russian suspects in the Salisbury attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter, Yulia, but there has been no official confirmation of that report either.

The Guardian reported that the decision to press for extradition follows a debate within the government, which was divided between those who want to ratchet up London's response to Russia over the incident and those who see the request as a futile political gesture.

Any extradition request is likely to be rejected by Russia. The Russian Constitution forbids the extradition of Russian citizens to another state.

Russian officials refused to hand over suspects who Britain claimed were responsible for the murder of Aleksandr Litvinenko with a rare radioactive isotope in 2006.

"This is Litvinenko all over again. It's almost a rerun of the situation," The Guardian quoted a government source as saying.

The Skripal incident occurred in March, when the former colonel in Russian military intelligence who betrayed dozens of agents to Britains MI6 intelligence service and his daughter were found unconscious on a public bench in Salisbury.

Britain blamed Russia for the poisonings and identified the poison as Novichok, a deadly group of nerve agents developed by the Soviet military in the 1970s and 1980s. Russia has repeatedly denied any involvement in the attack.

The Skripals were hospitalized for months in critical condition, but after what they described as a painful period of recovery, both were released.

After the attack on the Skripals, allies in Europe, the United States and elsewhere expressed support for Britain and concern over the incident by ordering the biggest expulsion of Russian diplomats since the height of the Cold War.

Russia retaliated by expelling an equal number of Western diplomats. Moscow has repeatedly denied any involvement and accused British intelligence agencies of staging the attack to stoke anti-Russian hysteria.

After the Skripal attack, a British woman, Dawn Sturgess, died last month after her partner found a small perfume bottle containing Novichok near Salisbury and unknowingly gave it to her as a gift.

Her partner, Charlie Rowley, was also sickened by the poison in the bottle, but later recovered.

Police have said they believe the two incidents are related, theorizing that perpetrators first smeared the Novichok on the door of Sergei Skripal's house and discarded the container, which Rowley later picked up and gave to Sturgess, who sprayed it on her wrists.

With reporting by The Guardian, Reuters, AFP, and dpa
PRISTINA -- Senior government officials in Kosovo and Serbia have indicated a willingness to consider border changes as part of a peace process aimed at ending a dispute over Kosovos independence that has hampered both countries' accession to the European Union.

But critics on August 7 warned that the entire Balkan region could be destabilized by the idea of swapping a predominantly ethnic Albanian part of southern Serbia for mostly ethnic Serb populated parts of northern Kosovo.

Kosovos president, Hashim Thaci, has suggested that the idea of unifying Serbias southernmost Presevo Valley region with Kosovo should be raised during the next round of EU-mediated talks between Pristina and Belgrade, which are expected to take place in Brussels in September.

Ethnic Albanians form an overwhelming majority of the residents in the Presevo Valley, as well as in southern Serbia's nearby regions of Bujanovac and Medvedja.

The area had been part of Kosovo until shortly after World War I. Kosovo was redesignated as an autonomous province of Serbia after WWII and had that autonomy strengthened substantially in 1974.

Kosovos declaration of independence from Serbia in February 2008 has been recognized by more than 100 UN member countries. But Belgrade, backed by Russia, refuses to recognize Kosovo as a state.

'Correction Of Borders'

On August 6, Thaci defended his proposal -- saying he was open to discussing what he called a "correction of borders" in order to normalize relations with Serbia.

But Kosovos president rejected the idea of dividing Kosovos territory along ethnic lines -- including the predominantly ethnic-Serb region of northern Kosovo.

Separated from the rest of the country by the Ibar River, northern Kosovo is home to about 50,000 ethnic Serbs who oppose Pristinas rule and still look to the government in Belgrade as their government.

"My proposal for a peaceful solution with Serbia is clear," Thaci said. "No ethnically based divisions, but a correction of border and mutual recognition."

Serbian Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic on August 7 suggested that Thacis proposal could be an opportunity to reach a compromise and resolve Belgrades long-running differences with Kosovo.

"It's not a secret that the main obstacle for reaching an agreement is Pristina's commitment to go engage in talks with maximalist goals," Dacic told Radio Television Serbia. "They dont want a compromise but us to recognize an independence, but also for them to get something else -- what they call eastern Kosovo, Presevo and Bujanovac."

"This opens a window for compromise," Dacic said, adding that he thinks the division of Kosovo on an ethnic basis would be the best solution.

"If theres dialogue, dialogue should also include a proposal," Dacic said.

Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic said on August 7 that a "solution to Kosovo's problem is necessary, as well as the declaration by Serbs and [ethnic] Albanians on whether we need peace or continued killing for territory."

"It is necessary because we need a long-lasting peace between Serbs and Albanians -- a solution that would create some kind of security for our citizens," Vucic said.

Borders 'Established By War'

But the idea of swapping territory is at odds with the position of Kosovos Prime Minister Ramush Haradinaj and other public officials in Pristina.

On August 3, Haradinaj told Kosovo television that "no one wants a change of borders except Russian President Vladimir Putin."

"No one dares to change the border, or to try to make a correction of the border," Haradinaj said.

On August 7, Haradinaj reiterated his opposition to bringing the issue of possible border changes to the EU-mediated negotiations, saying "the borders of Kosovo were established by war and only war can move them."

"Whoever believes that the borders can change in a different way, he is wrong," Kosovos prime minister said. "These borders have been established after the last war of the Kosovo Liberation Army and NATO intervention."

Haradinaj added that tens of thousands of people were "under the soil because of these borders -- and not just the last generation but the ones who were here earlier."

He also dismissed Thaci's statement about "border corrections," and Belgrade's called for "divisions" of Kosovo's territory as "only mutual rhetoric."

The speaker of Kosovos parliament, Kadri Veseli, also insisted on August 6 that Kosovo "has nothing to give and its territorial integrity is inviolable."

"Kosovo will join the UN, NATO, and the EU with its current borders," Veseli said.

In Washington, a U.S. State Department spokesman told RFE/RL that the full normalization of relations between Serbia and Kosovo was "essential for regional stability."

"Normalization would also open a clear path for both countries towards eventual membership in the European Union," the spokesman said, adding that Washington supports the EU-mediated peace process.

"Now is the time for the parties to be creative and flexible," the spokesman told RFE/RL. "The solution must come from them and be locally owned. The United States is ready to listen and help support the parties in finding a mutually agreed solution."

Nongovernmental organizations and rights groups have expressed alarm at the idea of border changes or territorial swaps as a way to resolve the ongoing dispute between Pristina and Belgrade.

A joint letter sent to EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini on August 7 by more than two dozen civil society organizations in Serbia and Kosovo warns that "the division of Kosovo or the exchange of territories between Kosovo and Serbia" on the basis of ethnicity risks destabilizing the Balkans.

"More frequent mentions of the possibility of redrawing the borders send a very dangerous message to the citizens of Serbia and Kosovo, as well as to the entire region, that there is a real possibility of legitimizing a dangerous propaganda of ethnic ownership over the territory -- a principle that has pushed the region on several occasions into bloody conflicts," the letter says.

The nongovernmental organizations told Mogherini that such a development would 'inevitably produce a chain reaction in other Balkan states and lead to numerous requests for changes in the borders in the Balkans, which opens the door to new conflicts.'

The letter also said such a move 'would send a dangerous message to all Serbs and Albanians which are living on the 'wrong side' of 'their' ethnic states, which could lead to another exodus of the population in the Balkans.

"The ethnically clean countries, the outdated 19th-century model, must not be the goals of any policy, nor should they be tolerated and supported by representatives of the international community," the civic organizations warned.
Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny has called for mass demonstrations across Russia next month against an unpopular government plan to raise the retirement age.

In a video statement posted on YouTube on August 7, Navalny called on all Russian citizens to rally on September 9, the day Russia is holding local elections.

Government-backed legislation that passed in the first of four parliamentary votes on July 19 would raise the retirement age to 63 for women by 2034 and to 65 for men by 2028. Currently, the retirement age is 55 for women and 60 for men.

The plan sparked widespread anger after it was announced last month, and President Vladimir Putin's approval ratings have fallen.

Tens of thousands of people protested in cities across the country on July 28, and many other demonstrations have been held.

More than 2.9 million people have signed a petition against the reform on Change.org.


Russian aluminum giant Rusal says U.S. sanctions are forcing it to shut down one of its smaller plants that catered to U.S. customers and find new jobs for hundreds of the plant's workers.

The company said on August 6 that operations at the Nadvoitsky aluminum smelter in Russia's Karelia region cannot continue because the plant stands to lose U.S. customers under the sanctions as well as a steady supply of raw materials.

Rusal is the second largest aluminum company in the world and a major employer of an estimated 61,000 Russian miners and manufacturing workers.

Under the sanctions, which were imposed on April 6 and designed to punish Moscow for alleged meddling in the 2016 U.S. election, U.S. customers are required to wind down business with Rusal by October 23.

Production at the Nadvoitsky plant was completely oriented toward the U.S. market, Rusal said, and it has had to stockpile all the aluminum products it has produced at the plant since April, generating what it said were "significant losses."

"Rusal was forced in August to begin closing down electrolysis pots at Nadvoitsky," Rusal told Reuters.

State figures show the plant has a workforce of 343 people and is the primary source of employment in the town of Nadvoitsy, which lies 485 kilometers north of St. Petersburg.

"Employees of the plant will not suffer" from the shutdown, Rusal maintained, as workers will either be offered jobs at a different company, be assisted with finding work in other parts of the country, or be provided with payouts agreed by both sides.

"The company...will provide each person with the opportunity to remain employed, primarily as part of the project to reprofile Nadvoitsky and create profitable businesses using the plant's infrastructure," Rusal said.

Rusal was one os several companies in Russian aluminum tycoon Oleg Deripaska's empire that was targeted with sanctions because of the billionaire's ties to the Kremlin.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, after announcing the sanctions, offered to waive them for Rusal if it severed its ties to Deripaska, saying the billionaire was the main target of the sanctions and it was not Washington's intent to cause the layoff of hundreds or thousands of Russian aluminum workers.

Rusal and other Deripaska companies took up the Treasury's offer and applied for exemptions, with Deripaska announcing that he would relinquish control of Rusal and resign from the boards of its parent company, En+.

However, despite several extensions of time granted by the Treasury, none of the measures the companies said they would take to distance themselves from Deripaska has as yet been carried out, and no waivers have been granted.

The New York Times reported that the company had hired a high-powered Washington lobbying firm to try to negotiate an easing of Treasury's terms for getting a sanctions waiver.

Meanwhile, in a report to Wall Street investors on August 6, a Rusal representative said the sanctions had had a "tangible impact on the company's export activities, logistics, and operations in the financial market," and "the uncertainty generated by the U.S. sanctions remains a major risk for Rusal."

With reporting by Reuters, The New York Times, and TASS
Ten years after Russia and Georgia went to war, the West on August 7 condemned Moscow's continued military presence in the Caucasus countrys territory and reiterated support for Georgias sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Earlier, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev issued a stern warning to NATO that Georgias joining the Western military alliance could lead to a "horrible" new conflict.

Medvedev said in an interview with the Kommersant FM radio station on August 6 that NATO's plans to eventually offer membership to Georgia are "absolutely irresponsible" and a "threat to peace."

Late on August 7, 2008, Georgian troops rolled into the Russia-backed breakaway region of South Ossetia in an attempt to reclaim the territory from what Tbilisi said was growing Russian militarization.

The conflict erupted into a five-day war in which Russian forces drove deep into Georgia before pulling back in the wake of a European Union-brokered peace agreement.

The conflict, which Tbilisi and Moscow accuse one another of starting, left hundreds dead and drove thousands from their homes.

After the war, Russia left thousands of troops in South Ossetia and another breakaway region, Abkhazia, and recognized both as independent countries.

Marking the 10th anniversary of the conflict, Georgia and the United States on August 7 condemned Russia's continued "occupation" of Georgian territory.

"This is a war against Georgia, an aggression, an occupation, and a blatant violation of international law," Georgian President Giorgi Margvelashvili said during a meeting attended by the foreign ministers of Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and a Ukrainian deputy prime minister.

"The aggressor's appetite has only increased after the invasion," he added.

The "aggression" against Georgia did not start in August 2008, but much earlier, in 1991-1992, the Georgian president also said, when "Russia detached two regions from the Georgian central authorities by means of hybrid war."

'Georgia's Sovereign Choice'

In a joint statement, the Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish, and Ukrainian ministers called on the international community to continue to demand that Russia "fully and without any further delay implements its international commitments and starts honoring international law and the right of sovereign neighboring states to choose their own destiny."

They also expressed "strong support for Georgias sovereign choice to pursue the ultimate goal of membership in the EU and NATO."

Last month, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, reiterated support for Georgia's membership at a meeting in Brussels, but did not mention when that could happen.

Before the Russia-Georgia war, Russian officials had made clear that they vehemently opposed Georgia's efforts to achieve NATO membership.

"Ten years of occupation is ten years too long," the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi said in a statement.

"We will continue to work together with the Government and the people of Georgia and with our friends and allies to ensure the worlds continued support for Georgias sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders," it also said, adding, "Georgia, we are with you."

The European Union praised the truce deal putting an end to the fighting and called the continuing Russian military presence in South Ossetia and Abkhazia, a "violation of international law" and the agreement.

"The European Union reiterates its firm support to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders," a statement said.

In an interview with Current Time TV on August 6, Mikheil Saakashvili, who was Georgia's president at the time of the 2008 conflict, said that Russia's motive in the war was to attack "Georgian statehood."

Saakashvili said that Moscow was concerned because reforms had made the South Caucasus country a "role model" for others in the region.

With reporting by AP, AFP, and dpa


MARIUPOL, Ukraine -- One recent summer morning, four Ukrainian Sea Guards peered out from a speeding patrol boat nicknamed Little Boy. Bubbly pop hits from the 1990s blared over the hum of the engine propelling them through the choppy swells of the Sea of Azov. The airy tunes contrast sharply with the rising tension in this sea, stoked, Ukraine says, by its powerful and ever-encroaching foe lurking in the waters: Russia. Around six nautical miles from the port of Mariupol, a symbol of that new tension came into view: the Ukrainian armed cutter-class ship Lyubomir, bobbing on the waves. From its top deck, one guard trained his eyes on the horizon as another stood rigid behind a heavy machine gun on the lower deck. No Russian naval or border guard vessels were visible that morning. But both have been increased in recent months, so they were out there somewhere. "We have to always be ready," said Artem Poliakov, a Sea Guard and the squadron's spokesman. A New Flash Point Back ashore, in and around Mariupol, a crucial industrial port city with a population of around 500,000 that sits roughly 800 kilometers southeast of Kyiv, it has been tense since late in the spring of 2014. Russia-backed separatists briefly controlled it then before the Ukrainian military and its volunteer battalions dislodged them. Today, fighting continues to rage just 24 kilometers to the east, in the once-quiet seaside town of Shyrokyne.

But now tensions are spilling into the sea that washes the 300-kilometer shoreline Ukraine still controls after the annexation of Crimea. The Sea of Azov, a rich fishing ground in Soviet times that has been of great strategic importance to independent Ukraine, has emerged after months of growing friction as the latest flash point in the four-year conflict between Moscow and Kyiv. Bridge Construction, Arrests, Navy Deployment Russia launched the opening salvo here in 2016, with its $3.7 billion Crimean Bridge project to link that occupied Ukrainian peninsula with southern Russia across the Kerch Strait -- the gate to the Azov. The move led to stern condemnation and sanctions from Kyiv and Western governments. The European Union in late July added six more Russian companies involved in the bridge project to its sanctions list. In March, with the bridge nearing completion, Ukrainian authorities detained a Ukrainian-registered Crimean fishing vessel for illegally sailing under the Russian flag and arrested its captain and crew in the Sea of Azov -- a move one Russian official likened to that of "Somali pirates." Since then, Russia has stepped up confrontation in and around the Azov in a big way. In early May, Russian border guards subordinate to the country's Federal Security Service (FSB) reportedly arrested a Ukrainian fishing vessel and its crew in the Black Sea, ostensibly for illegally fishing in what it said was Russia's exclusive economic zone.

In mid-May, following the Crimean Bridge's completion, Russia reportedly moved naval vessels including warships from its Caspian Flotilla to the Sea of Azov, citing a need for stepped-up security around the new structure. Since then, Russia's FSB has detained more than 148 Ukrainian and foreign merchant ships -- many more than once -- and interrogated their crew members, Ukrainian officials, port authorities, local shipping companies, and experts told RFE/RL. Such activities have not led to any shots being fired. But the appearance of armed Russian ships and the increased activity of its FSB alone mark a dangerous escalation and highlight an imbalance of power at sea that has put Mariupol on edge again. "We have Russian vessels floating nearby, ready to attack from the sea. And each provocation may turn this situation into a war," Galina Odnorog, a co-founder of the Mariupol Social Movement, a local nongovernmental organization focused on issues related to the Sea of Azov, told RFE/RL. "We are in a tinderbox." And there might be little, if anything, Ukraine can do about it. Who Controls The Sea? Poliakov said that, while Russia's actions are "provocative," because of a controversial 2003 agreement on cooperation and shared use of the Sea of Azov and Kerch Strait, "everything Russia is doing here is technically legal." Signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine's then-President Leonid Kuchma in 2003, the agreement makes the Sea of Azov jointly controlled territory, allowing both countries to use it freely. "Ukraine and the Russian Federation, two historically brotherly nations, define the Sea of Azov and Kerch Strait as economically important for both countries," the agreement reads. And despite the current conflict between Kyiv and Moscow, the agreement is still in place. There have been calls in Ukraine to rip it up. But Oleh Slobodyan, chief spokesman for the Border Guard Service of Ukraine, ruled out making any change to the agreement, saying such a move would only work if Russia also intended to implement the changes. "We can make such a decision unilaterally, but, in my opinion, this will not have any effect" on Russia's behavior, he said. 'Sea Blockade' That deal, said observers and officials, has allowed Russia to impose an effective "sea blockade" in the Azov, a measure meant to achieve several goals. "The sea blockade that Russia is conducting is aimed, first, at delivering economic losses to Ukraine, and, secondly, at creating greater tensions in cities like Mariupol and other small cities and villages where people are making their living in sea trade and fishing," said Oleksiy Melnyk, a Ukrainian political and security analyst at the Kyiv-based Ruzumkov Center, a nongovernmental public-policy think tank. Mariupol and nearby Berdyansk are home to Ukraine's two major steel- and grain-exporting ports on the Sea of Azov and hundreds of private fishing companies that employ more than 20,000 people. The ports in both cities have experienced steep cuts in cargo handling since construction began on the Crimean Bridge, while the waters where fishermen can freely move has been reduced due to fears of being arrested by Russia's FSB. Because of the low height of the Crimean Bridge, 144 ships that rise taller than its 33-meter clearance can't reach the Port of Mariupol, resulting in a 30 percent loss in revenues for the port, according to official statistics provided to RFE/RL. To avoid layoffs, the port has shortened the work week to four days for most of its 3,000 employees. When RFE/RL visited the port in late July, only one merchant ship was present, and the dozen or so workers on duty were making repairs to a large crane and a pipe running from the dock.

Ukraine's minister of infrastructure, Volodymyr Omelyan, reportedly said during a program on the 112 Channel this month that there has been a 10 percent decrease in calls to the ports of Mariupol and nearby Berdyansk. But he also tried to downplay the troubles, calling the situation in and around the Sea of Azov "stable." His comments came after Ukraine's deputy minister for European integration, Olena Zerkal, downplayed the situation in early July, saying it had been "artificially created by the media." 'Lack Of Reaction From Kyiv' Odnorog said that is not the case, arguing that Kyiv has not paid enough attention to the escalating "crisis" in the sea. "There is also a problem with the reaction of our authorities -- namely, a lack of reaction," Odnorog said. Others in Mariupol also shake their heads at official remarks from Kyiv. In explaining the losses his company has suffered in recent weeks, Anton Shapran, director at the Mariupol-based Maritime Logistics, a management company and service provider for 70 ships in the Sea of Azov, insisted the "crisis" was real.

He said that owners of "several" vessels had complained to him about having been detained for longer than 24 hours -- a delay that can cost between $3,000 and $13,000. Some of the ships have been stopped for more than three days, according to Andriy Klymenko, editor in chief of Black Sea News, an online information site devoted to covering developments in the Black and Azov seas. And the delays are growing. As they do, several shipping companies are thinking twice about trips to Ukrainian ports in the Sea of Azov, according to Odnorog and officials at the Port of Mariupol, who asked for anonymity because they were not authorized to provide official comments to media. "Many vessels already refuse to enter the Sea of Azov," Odnorog said, adding that the average delay time for vessels detained and searched over the past week of July had climbed to 54 hours. Beginning Of Sea Annexation? And there are other likely reasons for Russia's sea blockade. Balazs Jarabik, a nonresident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, speculated that Moscow might be trying to pile pressure on Ukraine to force it to "ease" a ban on supplying water to occupied Crimea, which appears to be drying up at an alarming rate.

Ukrainian state water agencies stopped flows through a major canal in 2014, citing millions in outstanding debts from the peninsula's Russian-imposed government. Still others say Moscow's ultimate goal may be nothing short of taking complete control of the waters surrounding annexed Crimea and all along the Ukrainian coastline. "If on [the Ukrainian] side there will not be increased patrolling, demonstrating the intentions of ousting Russian boats, [and] a sharp appeal to the Russian Federation and the international community, then this may become the beginning of the annexation of the Sea of Azov," wrote the Black Sea News's Klymenko. Protecting The Shore, But Not The Sea? Ukraine is trying a raft of tactics to respond to Russia's maneuvering. It is negotiating with European and U.S. partners to punish Russia's Black Sea ports over Moscow's moves in the Sea of Azov, according to Omelyan, the infrastructure minister. But it is unclear how persuasive Kyiv has been when so much of the West is grappling with its own problems. Activists are also trying their hand at attracting international help. Maria Podybailo, Odnorog's fellow co-founder at Mariupol Social Movement, said they had sent a letter to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's Special Monitoring Mission (OSCE SMM) -- a group of international observers tracking the fighting on the battlefields of eastern Ukraine -- asking them to expand their mandate to the sea "to monitor and record violations." It is unclear whether the OSCE SMM is considering the proposal. The OSCE SMM did not respond to RFE/RL requests for comment. Ukraine is taking measured military actions along the Sea of Azov shore after President Petro Poroshenko warned on July 16 that Russia was building up forces and weapons in the Black and Azov seas. He said he did not exclude the possibility that the Kremlin might prepare for an all-out attack on Mariupol. The next day, Poroshenko ordered top military officers to take measures in connection with the ship detentions and inspections, including possibly providing escorts through the sea. "We will not tolerate the illegal seizure of Ukrainian and foreign ships that are moving toward Ukrainian ports, including Mariupol," the president said. In a show of force, the Ukrainian military conducted two-day helicopter shooting drills over the Sea of Azov in late July. "The Joint Forces are paying considerable attention to the defense of the Azov coast to prevent the landing of enemy amphibious assault troops," said Commander of the Joint Forces of Ukraine Serhiy Nayev. "All units that are involved in the defense of the sea coast shall conduct regular training to boost the readiness to repel an attack." But there seems to have been little done to boost defenses on the sea itself.
The suspected killer of a senior Uzbek police officer has reportedly committed suicide while in hospital.

Dilshod Akramov, the chief of the Interior Ministry's Main Directorate for Patrol Service and Public Safety, was found dead in his office on August 4. According to media reports, he had been stabbed numerous times.

One of Akramov's relatives and a top police official, who asked not to be named, told RFE/RL on August 6 that the main suspect was one of Akramov's subordinates, who had been detained hours after the killing.

The sources told RFE/RL that the suspect, whose identity was not disclosed, was admitted to a Tashkent hospital after sustaining several serious wounds, most likely because Akramov defended himself during the attack.

The suspect subsequently jumped out of the window of the high-rise hospital building and died, Akramov's relative and the police officer told RFE/RL.

The police officer added that Akramov's killing was prompted by "personal issues" between the two officers.

The Interior Ministry refused to formally comment while an investigation was under way.

Akramov was appointed to his position last month.

Before the appointment he had led the crime-prevention directorate of the Tashkent city police.
A longtime business partner of President Donald Trump's former campaign chairman has detailed how he helped Paul Manafort hide millions of dollars that he earned from Ukrainian clients.

In his first day as a star witness in Manafort's trial, Rick Gates testified on August 6 in a U.S. court outside Washington that wealthy Ukrainian businessmen paid Manafort millions of dollars for his political consulting work in Ukraine through wire transfers to accounts based mostly in Cyprus that were set up for Manafort.

Prosecutors allege that Manafort committed tax fraud by failing to report a "significant percentage" of the more than $60 million they say he received from his Ukrainian clients.

Gates testified about the payment scheme he said Manafort directed him to use, saying that Manafort had told him "the Ukrainian businessmen...had directed him to set up Cyprus accounts" as cover for their payments.

"At Mr. Manafort's request, we did not disclose foreign bank accounts" to U.S. tax authorities, said Gates, who himself is a former senior Trump campaign aide who pled guilty earlier this year to conspiracy charges and is cooperating with prosecutors in hopes of getting a reduced sentence.

Gates testified that both he and Manafort had control over the foreign bank accounts where the Ukrainian money was deposited.

Another person given control over the accounts, Gates testified, was Konstantin Kilimnik, a political consultant and close business associate of Manafort who was indicted in June on charges of intimidating witnesses in connection with Manafort's case.

In court filings, U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller has accused Kilimnik of having ties to Russian intelligence services, an allegation he has denied.

Beyond directing that payments from Ukrainian clients be deposited into Cyprus bank accounts, Gates testified that Manafort told him to report his overseas income as loans to lower Manafort's taxable income -- a point that supported previous testimony provided by Manafort's accountant.

"When income came into the company, Mr. Manafort directed whether it would be treated as income...or loans," Gates said. Reporting earned income as a loan is considered tax fraud under U.S. law.

Accountant Cindy Laporta, who has previously testified that both Manafort and Gates doctored financial statements and backdated loans, on August 6 was asked about a $10 million loan that Manafort purportedly received from Russian billionaire Oleg Deripaska in 2006.

Deripaska is a Russian aluminum tycoon with close ties to the Kremlin who engaged in various business deals with Gates and Manafort. He was sanctioned by the United States this year because of his association with the Kremlin.

Laporta testified that she had seen no evidence that Manafort's "loan" from Deripaska was ever paid off.

Gates, during the course of his much-anticipated testimony on August 6, admitted to helping Manafort doctor financial statements, hide foreign income, and cheat on his taxes -- all of which are crimes under U.S. tax laws.

Gates said he was also aware that Manafort was acting as an unregistered foreign agent in lobbying for Ukraine in Washington -- another crime that Manafort has been charged with in a separate case by Mueller.

Manafort has pleaded not guilty to the charges and his attorneys have signalled that they may seek to pin blame on Gates, whom they accuse of embezzling millions of dollars from Manafort.

Gates admitted to stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from Manafort through false expense reports during court testimony on August 6.

Manafort was Trump's campaign chairman from May to August 2016, when he stepped down amid questions about his lobbying work for Ukraine's former Moscow-friendly president, Viktor Yanukovych.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, The Independent, and AP
Human rights groups have called on the Tajik government to lift a "politically motivated travel ban" on an independent activist's family, and put an end to its "vicious campaign of intimidation" against dissidents' relatives.

Seven watchdogs, including Human Rights Watch (HRW), said on August 7 that security services forced Shabnam Hudoidodova's 10-year-old daughter, elderly mother, and brother off an airplane at Tajikistan's main airport last week.

They were on their way to Europe to reunite with the activist, the groups said.

"The cruelty Tajik authorities have shown against this 10-year-old girl and her relatives simply for her mothers peaceful criticism of the government is shocking," Hugh Williamson, Europe and Central Asia director at HRW said in a statement. "They should be allowed to leave Tajikistan immediately without any fear of retribution."

The statement said Tajik security service officers on August 4 boarded the plane on which Hudoidodovas family members were waiting to depart, removed them from the flight, and banned them from traveling to Europe to reunite with the activist.

The three were interrogated for hours and forced to sign documents acknowledging that all of them, including the girl, were on a "wanted list," it added.

The move is the latest in a series of actions against Hudoidodovas family that included violent attacks against her daughter and other relatives, the groups said.

They added that Tajik authorities have regularly detained, threatened, and banned from travel family members of other opposition activists abroad.

"Targeting dissidents' families is a new low set by the government, and an especially despicable tactic,"Freedom Now Executive Director Maran Turner said in the statement. "Tajikistans international partners, including Brussels and Washington, must make a clear call for an end to this abuse."

Hudoidodova, an activist from the Tajik political movement Group 24, was detained in Belarus for more than eight months in 2015 and 2016 under a Tajik extradition request and Interpol warrant.

After that, she stopped her political opposition work and took up human rights activism in Poland on behalf of Tajik asylum seekers there, the seven rights groups said in their joint statement.

Group 24 was officially banned in Tajikistan in October 2014 after authorities labeled it as an extremist organization.


The U.S. Justice Department has made public the identities of four Russian citizens arrested by the FBI in New York on suspicion of money laundering and collusive fraud.

Department spokeswoman Nicole Navas Oxman told RFE/RL on August 6 that Russian nationals Kirill Dedusev, Aleksei Livadny, Nikolai Tupikin, and Stanislav Lisitsky had been arrested last week.

The citizenship of a fifth suspect arrested last week, Maksim Suverin, was not specified.

In a July 24 statement, the Justice Department listed Dedusev, Livadny, Tupikin, and Lisitsky among 25 people, mainly from former Soviet republics, who were charged with involvement in a multimillion-dollar wire-fraud and money-laundering scheme.

According to prosecutors in the Southern District of New York, the criminal group consisted of seven citizens of Russia, five citizens of Georgia, four citizens of Azerbaijan, three from Kazakhstan, two from Latvia, two Ukrainian nationals, and individuals with U.S. and Turkish citizenship.

Meanwhile, on August 7, Kazakh Foreign Ministry spokesman Aibek Smadyarov said that tree Kazakh nationals, all women whose identities were not revealed, had been detained in the same case.

The Russian Embassy in Washington said it was aware of the four Russians' arrest, and that it was following the development of the situation closely.

The July 24 indictments say the suspects placed false ads about selling cars, and after clients deposited down payments, they disappeared. According to the indictments, the suspects created a number of shell companies through which they ran their fraudulent activities, stealing some $4.5 million from the victims.

If convicted, the suspects face up to 30 years in prison for conspiracy to commit fraud and up to 20 years in prison for money laundering.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Kazakh Service
Ten years ago, late on August 7, 2008, Georgian troops rolled into the breakaway region of South Ossetia in an attempt to reclaim the territory from what Tbilisi said was growing Russian militarization. The conflict erupted into a brief war between Russia and Georgia that left hundreds dead, drove thousands from their homes, and destroyed villages and towns.
Twenty amputees have begun a trek of more than 600 kilometers across Afghanistan to call for an end to the country's 17-year war.

The marchers, some on crutches and others in wheelchairs, began their journey on August 7 from the western city of Herat to the Afghan capital, Kabul, defying scorching summer heat and the risk of roadside bombs and militant attacks.

"We want peace, we want a normal life, we want to work and serve our country," Mahmud Majruh, a member of the so-called peace convoy, told RFE/RL's Radio Free Afghanistan.

"People are being killed every single day in every region of our country. We want all sides of the conflict -- the government, the Taliban, and the others involved -- to negotiate, to come to an agreement, to make peace," Majruh added.

"They must stop the war to prevent more deaths and destruction, said another peace activist who identified himself as Murtaza.

"We lost our limbs, and we dont want it to happen to our children, to our next generation," he also said.

The march kicks off weeks after a group of Afghan peace activists walked 700 kilometers from the southern city of Lashkar Gah to Kabul, most of it during the fasting month of Ramadan.

The Helmand Peace Convoy reached the capital June 18 following a three-day truce between the Taliban and government forces coinciding with the Eid al-Fitr holiday that ends the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The government is expected to announce another truce coinciding with the three-day Eid-al-Adha festival later in August.

The Western-backed government has been struggling to fend off the Taliban and other militant groups since the withdrawal of most NATO troops in 2014.

The Taliban has ignored an offer by the government of direct peace negotiations.
Canadas call for more help fighting fires answered by Mexico

Mexico City, Mexico  As Canada continues to request help battling its forest fires, Mexico continues to answer, sending another battalion of firefighters to the country.

The National Forestry Commission (Conafor) says they have sent a fourth group, this time of 62 fighters and specialized technicians, to help battle forest fires in Canada. This latest group makes a total of 372 Mexican firefighters currently in the country.

The Canadian Inter-Agency Center for Forest Fires made the recent request for help, this time for battling fires in the province of British Colombia. This particular Mexican team will be distributed in 3 brigades of 20 members each, in addition to a leader and a representative in the field.

In this latest deployment, fighters from the states of Aguascalientes, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Campeche, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Mexico City, Durango, State of Mexico, Guanajuato, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacan, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca and Puebla are participating.

Photo: The National Forestry Commission

Firefighters from the states of Quintana Roo, Sinaloa, Sonora, Tabasco, Tlaxcala, Veracruz, Yucatan and Zacatecas are also helping fight Canadas flames. This latest group left Mexico City Monday, landing in the city of Winnipeg where they traveled by land to British Colombia.

Mexican authorities say the group will likely stay in British Colombia for about 32 days, where they will join the existing 2,000 Canadian forest firefighters who continue to battle the more than 200 fires in the province.

In July, 309 Mexican firefighters were sent to Canada in three deployments to the province of Ontario.

This year marks the largest group of Mexican forest firefighters being sent to Canada. In August of 2017, Mexico sent a total of 270 fighters. This year, they have already sent 342.

The collaboration of Mexican combatants in Canada is possible thanks to the Memorandum of Understanding for the Exchange of Resources for the Management of Forest Fires between Canada and Mexico, signed by both countries in early 2014.
Cancun citizens demanding end to violence, resignation of attorney general

Cancun, Q.R.  Residents of the city of Cancun say that due to the increase in violence, they not only want peace, but the resignation of the state attorney general.

Faced with a continual increase in violence, executions and insecurity that have reached historical levels, residents of Cancun are demanding peace for their city. Associations have organized a March for Peace, which will be held Friday evening in Cancun.

The March for Peace will also serve as a way to protest and demand the resignation of the State Attorney General, Miguel Angel Cen Pech.

Across social networks, the organizers say theyve had enough of the violence. Either we stop this or the next one could be you. In the absence of results by the authorities and the increasing number of robberies, assaults, executions, kidnappings, scams, etc., next Friday, August 10 at 5 p.m. will depart from the roundabout of Ceviche with a course set to the vice-office in a march of protest.

The city of Cancun has recorded historic figures in violent acts, with numbers so far in 2018 exceeding the total for the year of 2017. Several organizations and public voices have hinted that the State Attorney General, Miguel Angel Cen Pech, resign from his position, however, Cen Pech says he has no plans on resigning.
Neighborhood residents set fire to mobile unit after accusing police of killing man

Playa del Carmen, Q.R.  Residents of a Playa del Carmen neighborhood set fire to a mobile police unit in what they say was retaliation for the death of a local man.

Residents in a subdivision of Villas del Sol accused federal police of fatally shooting a local man. The shooting, which was responded to by Playa del Carmen police, was recorded at 5:40 p.m. Monday evening when emergency services received a call of a man shot, laying on a dirt road.

Captain Juan Carlos Garcia Miranda, head of the General Directorate of the State Ministerial Police, said that emergency 911 received a report of a person being injured by gunfire. Personnel from the citys Homicide and Experts unit attended to the call.

Photo: General Directorate of the State Ministerial Police

When they arrived, there were already 10 members of the federal police with three vehicles on scene. They had cordoned off the area where the body of the deceased man was lying. While carrying out their investigation, Garcia Miranda reported that neighbors broke the cordon and violently rebuked police, claiming that the federal police were the ones who shot the man.

Although police and medical officials managed with the removal of the body, the team withdrew their vehicles when neighbors of the subdivision attacked them. Captain Garcia Miranda said that police were attacked by around 150 people after they surrounded police and their vehicles.

He says neighbors began throwing sticks and stones and that they managed to damage the citys vehicles. Before all was said and done, he said they also began to demolish the citys mobile police unit by overturning it and setting it on fire.

Police agents managed to take refuge in a private house where they were forced to shoot in the air four times to subdue the violence. The mob eventually dispersed.

Garcia Miranda said there were no injured people or victims during the regrettable incident and that ministerial police are investigating for the demarcation of responsibilities.
Tropical storm Ileana leaves four dead in Guerrero

Guerrero, Mexico  Four people in the state of Guerrero have died after tropical storm Ileana drenches the coast with heavy rain.

The head of the Secretariat of Civil Protection of Guerrero, Marco Cesar Mayares Salvador, announced that heavy rains caused by tropical storm Ileana has resulted in four deaths.

He says of the four dead, two were children who drowned in the lagoon of Tres Palos, one was a tourist who was dragged into the sea by strong currents in the port of Acapulco and the fourth, an adult dragged by currents into the Huacapa River.

He said that a tourist from Mexico City drowned after being dragged by the strong current at La Condesa beach. He was rescued by lifeguards with vital signs, but later died.

The second adult was that of a male who was caught by rushing waters in a ravine along roadway that emptied into the Huacapa River. The death occurred the vicinity of the town of Petaquillas, where he was found drowned.

Mayares Salvador also reported that in the municipality of Coyuca de Benitez, on the Costa Grande, at least 20 homes have been reported flooded, as well as flooded streets and avenues around the region.

The state official recommends extreme caution by the general public until the storm weakens and passes.
A MAN has told a court a neighbour hit him repeatedly with a rounders bat in the street, causing injury to his head.

Graham Brookes (53), of St Nicolas Road, Rawmarsh, is on trial at Sheffield Crown Court where he is accused of assaulting Shaun Lyceon.

Brookes denies possession of a dangerous weapon in public and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Mr Richard Veni, prosecuting, told the court yesterday that Mr Lyceon had heard a commotion while collecting a takeaway outside his home on the evening of March 10.

He said Mr Lyceon had gone to check what was going on and, when he turned a corner, he saw Brookes armed with a bat.

Brookes hit Mr Lyceon with the bat three to four times, Mr Veni said.

Mr Lyceon took the bat off him and returned home, he added.

Both men called the police.

The court heard a neighbour saw Mr Lyceon returning home holding the side of his head, which was red.

Brookes told the police that shortly before the incident his window had been smashed. When he looked at his CCTV footage, he had seen a female causing the damage.

He ran after her and took a rounders bat for protection, added Mr Veni.

Brookes told the police that the woman had disappeared but a young man appeared and threatened him, followed by an older man who did the same.

Brookes told police he had not attacked Mr Lyceon and, if he had hit him, he must have done so in the struggle.

Mr Veni said: We (the prosecution) would say it is never reasonable to arm yourself for your own protection and what he (Brookes) should have done is called the police.

Giving evidence, Mr Lyceon said that Brookes had hit him four or five times.

I took the bat off him and he ran off, said Mr Lyceon.

Mr Lyceon denied a suggestion by defence counsel Mr David Watts that he had attacked Brookes by grabbing him on the shoulders and head butting him.

A transcript of a 999 call Mr Lyceon made to the police was read in court in which he said: I heard some commotion and basically, he just smashed me literally three times on my head.

The trial continues.
Sheffield Magistrates Court

A LANDLORD who failed to carry out gas and fire safety checks has been fined more than 2,000 as part of Rotherhams selective licensing programme - which regulates the standard of private rented homes.

Mohammed Hanif Khan, of Broom Lane, was found guilty at Sheffield Magistrates Court for several breaches of conditions in relation to licences held for properties on Wellgate Mount, Wellgate and Selborne Street in Eastwood. In total he was ordered to pay 2,015.03 in fines and costs.

Magistrates also imposed further fines against six other rogue landlords from Rotherham in relation to unlicensed properties.

Saidya Halima, of Cameron Road, Derby, was found to be operating an unlicensed property on Belmont Street, Masbrough, after the selective licensing team prohibited the property from use after deeming it not fit for human occupation. This was a result of concerns around the external doors, a rotting floor in the living room and the fire place. She complied with the prohibition order, but has been ordered to pay 1,000 fines and costs for operating without a licence.

Masood Hanif, of Hollowgate, was found guilty of operating four flats without a licence on Fitzwilliam Road, Eastwood. He was ordered to pay 1,038.55 fines and costs. He has since applied for his licence.

Mohammed Iqbal and Nazir Begum, of Grosvenor Road, Eastwood, were charged with failing to licence a property on Milton Road, Eastwood. Their fines and costs total more than 2,275.

Kala Khan, of Doncaster Road, Rotherham, was ordered to pay fines and costs of more than 1,000 for failing to licence a property on St Anns Road, Eastwood. He has since applied to licence the property.

Basharat Rafiq, of Doncaster Road, Rotherham, was given a fine and costs of just under 1,000 in relation to an unlicensed property on Lindley Street, Eastwood.

The mandatory selective licensing scheme was introduced in May 2015 to cover parts of Maltby, Dinnington, Eastwood and Masbrough and requires landlords to licence privately rented properties.

A report to the councils cabinet found that 91 per cent of the homes inspected in the first selective licensing areas required action to make them safe. Ten properties were found to be an imminent and serious risk to the safety of tenants and had to be closed to occupation.

RMBC is about to consult on expanding the scheme into Thurcroft and Parkgate, where housing standards are below national averages. These areas were singled out because of high levels of crime and anti-social behaviour, as well as suffering from significant amounts of environmental problems such as fly tipping and littering.

Cllr Dominic Beck, Rotherham Councils cabinet member for housing, said: Landlords should take the warning from these court cases that they risk heavy fines if they fail to obtain a licence or comply with conditions.

This should send a loud and clear message that you should take your responsibilities very seriously.

For more information on selective licensing, or to apply for a licence, go to:

https://www.rotherham.gov.uk/homepage/355/selective_licensing

To see the Cabinet report visit: https://moderngov.rotherham.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=1003&MId=14421&Ver=4
(idexonline.com) - If there is any doubt that the global diamond industry cannot avoid adopting a technological approach in order to survive in the future, three news items this week joined the many others in the past several years in showing that this is a false approach. Interestingly  but perhaps not surprisingly given its Start-up Nation reputation  two of the news pieces relate to Israeli companies.
Image credit: FCRF

Fancy color diamond prices showed no significant change in the second quarter of 2018, says a press note from the Fancy Color Research Foundation (FCRF).FCRFs Fancy Color Diamond Index indicated an overall rise of 0.1% in Q2 2018 for yellow, pink and blue fancy color diamonds, in all sizes and saturations. However, after having gradually decreased over the past 4 years, prices of yellow fancy color diamonds increased by 0.2% in Q2 2018, with fancy intense yellow outperforming all other saturation categories.The prices of blue fancy color diamonds increased by 1.5% during Q2 2018, continuing the trend over the past 2 years. Prices of 2 carat fancy pink, 1 carat intense pink, and 3 carat vivid pink increased by 2% in this quarter, while the pink category as a whole decreased by 0.5%.In Q2 2018, throughout all colors the prices of 1  3 carat stones increased, while prices of 3 carats and above slightly decreased.On a year-to-year basis, when compared to Q2 2017, the Fancy Color Diamond Index increased by 0.5%, with blue prices up 5.7% and yellow and pink prices down by 0.7% and 0.6%, respectively.
Lithoquest Diamonds said it has commenced the 2018 drill programme at its wholly-owned North Kimberley Diamond Project in Western Australia.It said in a statement that it recovered micro-diamonds from a small sample of outcrop last April and had deployed a truck mounted diamond drill rig to target area 702.Drilling was also planned for target area 701.Meanwhile, the company said three new high-priority kimberlite targets had been identified by field work currently being conducted at the property.These targets are supported by historical results which include kimberlite indicator minerals as well as diamonds, it said.Through the month of August, field work will continue in order to identify additional targets.
Image credit: Lucapa Diamond

Lucapa Diamond said it has recovered more special diamonds, including a 28 carat stone from the ongoing bulk sampling programme at its 70 percent-owned Mothae mine in Lesotho.It also recovered two light pink diamonds from the north zone of the Mothae kimberlite pipe.These recoveries, together with the recovery of a 3 carat pink diamond in the historic bulk sampling conducted in 2008-2012, are proof that Mothae also hosts pink diamonds, said Lucapa.The company recently unearthed other specials including an 89 carat yellow from the south-east zone, a 25 carat yellow from the neck zone and a 12 carat white from the north zone.The ongoing bulk sampling programme was designed to expand the published +1 million carat JORC resource by testing areas of the Mothae kimberlite pipe which are not included in the resource or which require further sampling to enhance the resource.
4,000 buses in Haryana remained off roads

Haryana Roadways employees today went on a day-long strike in protest against the state government's decision to introduce 700 private buses in the state. Nearly 4,000 buses in Haryana remained off roads, hitting inter-state and intra-state services. Employees under the banner of Haryana Roadways Karamchari Joint Action Committee have been holding protests at several places against the state government.

Haryana Roadways employees today went on a day-long strike

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They said they would not allow the state government to launch 700 private buses in the state as it would lead to privatisation of the transport department. They said the government should instead increase the number of buses under the roadways department. Police personnel were deployed at several bus stands in Haryana to prevent any untoward incident in the wake of the day-long strike.
Shiv Sena today hit out at the Modi government

The Shiv Sena today hit out at the Modi government saying the ruling BJP had given a pre-poll promise of creating one crore jobs every year, but in reality the number of unemployed people was growing by the day. Referring to Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's swipe at the Centre over Union minister Nitin Gadkari's "where are the jobs" remark, the Sena said the opposition party should not forget that the unemployment scenario during its rule was equally deplorable.

"There was a news about one lakh fresh jobs being created through the Ayushman Bharat (national health protection) scheme. But there was another report which said 24 lakh government posts are lying vacant and three crore youths are jobless. These two reports highlight the hard reality of the unemployment situation in the country," the Sena said in an editorial in its mouthpiece "Saamana" today.

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Union minister Nitin Gadkari

"There is nothing new in these reports, but they show that nothing has changed during the rule of those who had promised to create one crore jobs every year. The moves like demonetisation and roll-out of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) further affected the revenue of lakhs of people in the last two years," it added. It is being said that the Ayushman Bharat scheme would provide jobs to one lakh people.

This is an ambitious scheme of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which aims to provide a health cover of Rs 5 lakh per family annually to 10 crore families, the BJP ally said. "Under the scheme, around one lakh 'Ayushman Mitra' will be appointed at both private and government hospitals, who will work as a bridge between the hospitals and patients. We only wish that the announcement comes true. The nature of their job, whether it is of permanent or temporary nature, their salaries and perks should be specified," the Uddhav Thackeray-led party said.

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Ayushman Bharat

Going by the promises given by those in power today, four crore jobs should have been created in the last four years. But three crore youths in the country are currently jobless, it said. "Union minister Nitin Gadkari, while answering a query recently said "where are the jobs". Although its context was different, he has stated a fact. Congress president Rahul Gandhi taunted Gadkari over his statement. But they should not forget that during the Congress rule the unemployment situation was equally bad," the Sena said.
Par passes bill to grant constitutional status to OBC commission

A key bill to provide constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes(NCBC) secured Parliament's approval with the Rajya Sabha passing the measure that will give the panel full powers to safeguard the rights and interests of the Other Backward Classes(OBCs). The Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill 2017 was passed after a spirited debate during which several members urged the Centre to make public the findings of the caste census and implement reservation accordingly.

It was cleared by the Lok Sabha on August 2 superseding the amendments earlier carried out by the Rajya Sabha. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah termed as "historic" the passage of the bill. "A historic moment for our country! I am glad that Parliament has passed the Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, which grants Constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes. This will contribute to the empowerment of the OBC communities across India," Modi tweeted. Shah said the bill fulfilled a long pending demand of the OBCs.

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NCBC

"It is a historic legislation that underlines the Modi government's commitment to bring the backward sections to the front row of the country's development," Shah told reporters. The bill was passed after the Upper House repealed the National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993. The NCBC, a statutory body created in 1993, was given limited powers only to recommend to the government inclusion or exclusion of a community in the central list of OBCs. Also, the power to hear complaints of the OBCs and protect their interests remained with the National Commission for Scheduled Castes.

The Rajya Sabha adopted the bill along with the amendments made by the Lok Sabha, by 156 votes to nil. Over two-thirds majority of those present voted in favour of the bill, which is a necessity for amending the Constitution. It earlier passed the measure on July 31 last year along with an amendment and sent it to the Lower House. The Lok Sabha approved the bill last week with alternative amendments as well as some more changes unanimously with over two-thirds majority.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Replying to the debate, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thaawarchand Gehlot said the bill would help the backward classes people fight atrocities against them and ensure quick justice to them. "This bill would provide justice to the OBC people, it is the need of the hour," he added, The bill seeks to bring the NCBC on par with the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes.

In his reply, Gehlot also assured members that the legislation would not encroach upon the rights of state governments as they would have their own backward class commissions. "This commission has no relation with the state governments but is related to the Centre only." He said the state governments had their own lists of castes of OBC people, while the Centre had its own. The NCBC would recommend only to the central government regarding inclusion or deletion of a particular caste in the list.

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Amit Shah

"This is an important issue. There was a demand for a constitutional status to the OBC Commission from the 1980s and Parliament had held discussions several times. It has been discussed by the Standing Committee," Gehlot said, urging the members to pass the bill expeditiously. He said once the bill is passed by Parliament, the government would immediately form the Commission.

Participating in the debate, Bhupender Yadav (BJP) urged political parties to shun "vote bank politics" and support these measures. He said the Bill is long overdue and lamented that many states have not implemented 27 per cent reservation to the OBCs, adding that parties should "rise above vote bank politics and work towards social justice". Chaya Verma (Cong) sought reservation in Parliament and Assemblies for the OBCs.

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Bhupender Yadav

Narendra Jadhav (Nominated) demanded that the findings of the socio-economic caste census be made public. He said the Rohini Commission report and the census data should be compared to prepare fresh data of the OBCs. Ram Kumar Kashyap (INLD) said there should be a bill for reservation in legislature for the OBCs. Ashok Sidharth (BSP) alleged that the motive behind the government to bring the Bill now was to woo the electorate in the upcoming assembly elections.

Assembly polls are due in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chattisgarh. Manoj Kumar Jha (RJD) hoped the bill will create a level-playing field, while B Prakash (TRS) said no serious efforts were being made for a caste-based census. T K Rangarajan (CPI-M) said mere Acts will not do as they did not percolate down to the grassroot level, as recent data showed that only 7 out of 100 teachers in the Central Universities belonged to SC/ST and OBC categories.

Ram Kumar Kashyap

Sambhaji Chhatrapati (Nominated) demanded that Marathas be included in the OBC list to get equal opportunity in jobs. Ram Gopal Yadav (SP) said the government should come out with the caste-based census and implement the reservations accordingly. He demanded that the reservation be also extended to the judiciary.
Two new studies, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science, offer the first comprehensive analytical datasets of Protodynastic to Old Kingdom Egyptian copper-based artifacts (c. 3rd millennium BC), analyzing the provenance of Egyptian copper. As elaborated in a methodological comment, the studies constitute an important step forward in current knowledge on copper provenance and the subsequent economic, social and cultural insights into ancient Egypt.

Advancements in scientific analyses have allowed archaeologists to reconstruct the prehistoric trade of metals around the Mediterranean in remarkable detail. However, there was a notable gap in Egypt, one of the most important ancient civilizations, due to the difficulties in accessing Egyptian metal artifacts for analysis. Two teams of researchers have overcome this challenge by using collections of Egyptian objects held in Europe, providing the first glimpse of how Egyptians sourced their metals, encouraging further research in the field.

The first study by Frederik W. Rademakers, Georges Verly, Luc Delvaux and Patrick Degryse, based on artifacts from the Royal Museums of Art and History (RMAH) in Brussels, suggests predominant reliance on relatively local ore, from the Eastern Desert and Sinai Peninsula. The study carried out lead isotope and chemical analyses on a total of 40 metal samples and seven ore samples dating from the Predynastic, Protodynastic and Old Kingdom Periods. The results suggest significant developments in smelting technology that may have been adapted to different ore types.

"These findings are based on a very particular segment of the ancient Egyptian metal economy (namely funerary consumption) and thus only reveal the tip of the iceberg," said Frederik W. Rademakers, PhD, Earth and Environmental Sciences, KU Leuven in Belgium. "The underlying organization of early supply networks, clearly reliant on a variety of mining and production zones, and the development of copper production technology are only slowly revealed through ongoing research."

Archaeometallurgist Georges Verly, Royal Museums of Art and History in Brussels, added, "We integrated field excavation with technology and provenance studies of these museum artifacts. We aim to understand how these objects were made and used within their particular ancient contexts, with arsenical copper alloys being a specific point of interest for these earliest periods."

The second study from four Czech institutions, led by PhD candidates Jiri Kmosek (University of Pardubice) and Martin Odler (Charles University, Prague), investigates Egyptian copper-based artifacts from the Egyptian Museum of Leipzig University in Germany, found at the sites of Abusir, Abydos and Giza. The 22 artifacts show similar production technology, but diverse origins of the metal, including an Early Dynastic Egyptian object from Abusir, high nickel metal in which is consistent with ores and artifacts from Early Bronze Age Anatolia, in present-day Turkey.

"Lead isotopes showed us where the ore was most probably coming from," said archaeometallurgist Jiri Kmosek. "The results were quite unexpected," added Egyptologist Martin Odler. The study confirms that special metals had circulated around the Ancient Near East earlier than previously thought.

Finally, in a methodological comment responding to the two studies, Prof. Erez Ben-Yosef, PhD, based at the J. M. Alkow Department of Archaeology and Ancient Near Eastern Cultures, Tel Aviv University, Israel, indicates that despite the similar context of the artifacts, all from funerary sites, these new studies exemplify the great potential of analytical data to shed new light on various topics related to ancient Egyptian society, and encourage future research. The commentary highlights the importance of maintaining curated, shared, and constantly updated databases to the progress of provenance research.

"These studies constitute important steps forward in our understanding of early Egyptian metallurgy and raw materials procurement strategies. These and future studies can benefit from a modular presentation of interpretational insights that takes into account differences in the insights' robustness and susceptibility to change as more data become available," Prof. Ben-Yosef concluded.
After nearly three decades of helping seriously ill people live out their final days with dignity, the Zen Hospice Projects guesthouse may be nearing its own demise.

The project closed the internationally known guesthouse, at least temporarily, at the end of June while it holds out hope for a deep-pocketed donor  as well as reform in the health insurance industry  to help pay the bills of the beautiful Page Street Victorian, where as many as 100 people a year receive care.

We would rather say suspended than closed, said George Kellar, executive director of the project.

While the guest house has no current guests, Zen Hospice Project continues to operate two other programs: one that provides volunteer caregivers 13 hours a day, seven days a week at the palliative care unit at San Franciscos Laguna Honda Hospital and a course that trains family, volunteer and professional caregivers in how to take care their patients  and themselves.

Both programs are supported entirely by donations.

But donations have declined over the past 18 months and are no longer enough to support those programs plus the guesthouse, Kellar said. The loss of an arrangement with a local hospital to reserve beds and cover costs also hurt.

Some donors, Kellar said, have instead been steering their money toward social justice causes since President Trump took office, such as immigrant legal services, voter outreach and electing more women to office.

Kellar, who declined to provide figures, called the decrease in donations substantial.

The guesthouse opened in Hayes Valley in 1990 during the AIDS crisis, and it aimed to provide care to those who were sick and dying when many people were afraid to help. The facility was remodeled in 2010 and reopened as a six-bed home that provides care, and especially compassion, to people at the end of their lives.

The model of care here is very unique, Kellar said. It focuses on the social, emotional, spiritual and comfort needs of our caregiver families and the people theyre caring for.

The guesthouse acted as more than a nursing facility, though it did have round-the-clock care with a nearly 1-to-1 ratio of staff to residents.

What made the place truly special, though, was its traditions, like the flower petal ceremony, where family, staff and residents would gather on the deck and sprinkle flower petals over a deceased resident on a gurney before the person departed the house one final time.

And there were other special touches: the smell of cookies baked fresh daily, the meals prepared specially for each resident, the art and music programs, the comfortable great room and relaxing deck. Other special touches included Ukrainian television in the room of a woman who grew up in Ukraine.

We really pay attention to the details here, Kellar said.

Zen Hospice Project has become known around the world as a model for taking care of people in their dying days. While medical care, and especially pain management, remains important, the emphasis has been helping residents fully enjoy life.

There is a point at which curing ends and caring takes over, said Cassie Field, director of guesthouse caregiving services.

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Field, who moved from Ohio to work at the guesthouse, said visitors from around the world come for tours, often during layovers at San Francisco International Airport.

But fame doesnt pay the bills, which come to about $850 per resident per day. Fees are charged on a sliding scale, and nobody is turned away for inability to pay, Kellar said.

A corporate donor willing to commit about $2 million a year for two or more years, he added, would allow Zen Hospice to repopulate the guesthouse while trying to persuade at least one health insurance company to cover the costs of a residents stay.

The hospice also has been in talks with a health insurance provider Keller preferred not to name. He believes he needs just one benefactor to come aboard and the rest will follow.

We should all have this, Keller said. Its what we deserve.

And yet, as in life, nothing is guaranteed, and the staff seems to have come to terms with the possible end of Zen Hospice Project.

We believe in a sense of impermanence, after all its what we do daily, but if the community believes its time for this to end, we will accept that and find other ways to serve the community, Keller said.

Michael Cabanatuan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mcabanatuan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ctuan
The hubbub over the City Hall proposal to ban employee cafeterias in hopes tech workers will leave their cushy offices, mix with the masses on the sidewalks and patronize neighborhood restaurants has made its way to the East Coast, where the laughter can be heard almost from here.

I heard from an amused Alan Berube, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, a policy research center in Washington, D.C. For the past several years, Berube has published annual studies tracking American cities income inequality gaps.

San Francisco, you wont be surprised to learn, is an extreme version of the national pattern when it comes to the rich getting far richer and the poor struggling to keep up, Berube said.

While Supervisors Ahsha Safai and Aaron Peskin, the backers of the cafeteria ban, say it doesnt target the tech industry, its hard to read it any other way, since tech companies are mostly the ones that offer free food to their employees. Its easy to blame tech for the citys ills  and income inequality is a huge one  but its City Hall that wooed tech companies here with tax breaks and didnt get nearly enough housing built to accommodate their workers.

I suppose thats part of whats behind arguments about whether tech companies ought to have cafeterias, Berube said. It does seem rather marginal compared to issues like affordable housing.

Berubes most recent findings, published earlier this year, contain a striking tidbit: San Francisco households at the 95th percentile of income bring in an astounding $507,824 every year. That means one out of every 20 households in San Francisco earns even more than that.

Just four years ago, Berubes study showed San Francisco households at the 95th percentile were bringing in $353,576 every year. That means household income at that level has shot up $154,248 in just four years.

Not surprisingly, the $507,824 annual income is higher than households at the 95th percentile anywhere else in the country.

Its far higher, Berube said. Its almost in a different universe.

He pointed out that with San Franciscos notorious dearth of children  we have fewer residents per capita who are younger than 18 than in any other major American city  those high-earning households are not generally supporting families of four or five people. On average, theyre supporting families of two.

Meanwhile, San Francisco households at the 20th percentile are bringing in $31,840, also higher than most other cities in the U.S. (Id suspect thats because our lowest earners have been priced out of the city altogether.)

With those at the 95th percentile making 15.9 times more than those at the 20th percentile, San Francisco has the sixth biggest income gap in Berubes study. The most unequal city in America is Atlanta, where those at the 95th percentile make 18.1 times more than those at the 20th percentile.

Its getting worse, Berube said of income inequality in this country. Low-income households are gaining some ground, but even as they do that, households at the top in most big cities are pulling even farther away.

Berube said inequality will always exist, but city leaders should be focused on how to ensure those at the bottom of the income ladder can move up. He said building more affordable housing and improving education are among the best ways to do that, which makes a lot of sense to me.

After all, it now costs $750,000 to build one unit of affordable housing in San Francisco, 17 percent more than it did just two years ago. Theres also a funding gap of $342,000 for each one of those units, meaning the amount not covered by bonds, state money or tax credits.

Meanwhile, public school teachers in San Francisco continue to be paid less than their counterparts in many other districts in California despite our city having the highest cost of housing in the state.

Maybe the Board of Supervisors really is looking at the central issues affecting low and moderate income levels in San Francisco, but I suspect not, Berube said. Youre the City Hall reporter so youd be able to say.

I would, and I think you know my answer.

The severely mentally ill people we see on the sidewalks of San Francisco every day have one thing in common: The system failed them in disastrous fashion.

Chances are they have something else in common, too: mental illness stemming back to their childhood or young adulthood that was never properly treated. Clinical research shows 50 percent of all mental illness begins by age 14 and 75 percent begins by age 24.

Rich Pedroncelli / Associated Press

State Sen. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, has a proposal to catch these cases far earlier, before people suffering with untreated schizophrenia and bipolar disorder wind up living on our sidewalks and under our freeway overpasses.

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.

His legislation would strengthen oversight of Californias Mental Health Services Act, which was approved by voters in 2004. It imposes a 1 percent tax on personal income in excess of $1 million to fund county mental health programs. (Now theres a real way to spread the wealth!)

Eighty percent of the money goes to treat those with severe mental illness, while 20 percent is supposed to go to intervention for those in the earliest stages, before it becomes disabling.

Wieners legislation targets that 20 percent, which is currently worth $500 million a year. It would provide more guidance into how counties must spend the money and more oversight of how the programs receiving the money are functioning. Currently, some counties are providing far better programs than others, and some arent even spending all their money.

We need to help people avoid becoming severely mentally ill, chronically homeless people, Wiener said.

Wiener has teamed with the Steinberg Institute, founded by Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg, who as a state legislator championed the Mental Health Services Act.

Adrienne Shilton, government affairs director at the Steinberg Institute, said theres no statewide strategy when it comes to prevention and early intervention of mental illness.

What we see is 58 counties designing things in 58 different ways, she said. There is confusion, and weve heard this from the ground, about how to spend these dollars.

Wiener said the legislation is a bookend to his other piece of legislation regarding the mentally ill, the one I told you about previously that would strengthen the states conservatorship programs.

Both bills have been approved by the state Senate and are currently pending in the Assemblys Appropriations Ccommittee until Aug. 17. If they pass the committee, theyll move to the Assembly floor for a full vote by Aug. 31. Theyd then go to Gov. Jerry Brown, whod have 40 days to sign them.

Ill be sure to let you know what happens.

San Francisco Chronicle columnist Heather Knight appears Sundays and Tuesdays. Email: hknight@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @hknightsf
John Lewis loves to remind teenagers of their intrinsic potential to one day reshape the world. The longtime congressman, a Democrat from Georgia, and civil rights activist says its not only because he sees hope in young peoples zeal for change, but because he remembers when I was a boy in rural Alabama and I started asking a lot of questions about what I saw. Why did signs say White Men and Colored Men? Why couldnt I get a library card? Why would black people be asked to count the bubbles in a bar of soap, the jelly beans in a jar, to be able to register to vote? said Lewis on Friday during a visit to San Francisco.

Lewis, 78, who led the Bloody Sunday march in Selma, Ala., in 1965 and has been called the conscience of the U.S. Congress, was invited to the Bay Area by writer and 826 Valencia founder Dave Eggers. He was the featured guest speaker at Eggers inaugural International Congress of Youth Voices, the weekend-long gathering of 100 youth writers and activists, ages 16-20, from around the world.

I asked so many questions at a young age, and my mom would say, Boy, thats the way it is. Dont get in the way. Dont get in trouble,  said Lewis. But in 1955, when I was 15, I heard Rosa Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speak on the radio. I met Parks when I was 17, and the next year I met Dr. King, who would become Lewis friend and mentor.

He inspired me deeply to get into what I call good trouble. Necessary trouble.

Stout, bald, with hooded eyes and a warm smile, Lewis stood on the dock at Pier 3 before boarding a Hornblower yacht for the Congress of Youth Voices kickoff dinner cruise. He said he wanted to tell the assembled students that he too was politically awakened as an adolescent. As a Fisk University undergraduate, Lewis initiated sit-in demonstrations at Nashville lunch counters. At 21, he joined the 1961 Freedom Riders, and at 23, he delivered a fiery plea for voting rights as the youngest speaker at the March on Washington. (He is the last surviving speaker from the historic 1963 event.)

Since then, Ive seen young people leading the way so many times in this country, said Lewis. Thats why Im here.

John Lewis has been an inspiration since I learned about him in high school, said Eggers. They first met in 2009 at the Harold Washington Literary Awards in my hometown (Chicago). We spoke for just a few minutes, and I remember every second of that experience. I thought, Maybe these students could have that same chance.

When he talks about getting into good trouble,' that resonated because many of these students are brilliant writers, but theyre also incredibly socially engaged and some have experienced an awful lot at a young age.

Israeli activist and attendee Noa Gur Golan, 20, a pacifist who refused at 18 to serve in the Israeli Army, served four months in prison, said Eggers.

Shes going to run the world one day, he said, pointing out the congress youngest student delegate, 12-year-old Oakland poet Aniya Butler, seated on a banquette with her mother.

Seventeen-year-old Vivian (Pham) from Australia has already written a novel, due out from Random House next year, he said.

Before dinner, students mingled and met several of the congress other guest speakers: anti-genocide activist John Prendergast, Syrian American journalist Alia Malek and Oakland coffee entrepreneur (and subject of Eggers last book, The Monk of Mokha) Mokhtar Alkhanshali.

The youth delegates beamed after taking photos with Lewis, as the boat turned around under the Golden Gate Bridge under a fogless sky. Its really a dream come true this all worked out, said Eggers, who conceived of the idea for the congress last year and developed it with Amanda Uhle, CEO of the Hawkins Project, a Michigan foundation that sponsored the event.

We were about three months into the planning when Parkland happened, and Emma Gonzalez (a student activist at Parkland High School in Florida, the site of a mass shooting in February) got up and just tore open the sky, Eggers said.  I thought, Thats what weve been saying for so long, that there is no one more lucid and passionate, more unvarnished and morally clear than these teenagers. Theyre all about action. They want to do something when they see something outrageous.

During Lewis remarks to the students, the congressman urged them to read King and Gandhis writings, to embrace the power of nonviolent protest and to organize, organize, organize.

He spoke about the need for just immigration reform (Theres no such thing as an illegal human being, he said to much finger-snapping in agreement) and environmental stewardship. And he entreated his young audience to remain optimistic, the way he does, even when the times feel so dark.

When Lewis said hed take questions, the room filled with raised hands. Kenan Mirou, a senior at Mission High School who fled Damascus with his family in 2012, asked how to keep fighting for change in 2018 when you can literally get crushed, get killed trying?

Cory Williams, 16, from Michigan, asked Lewis what role a reserved, shy activist can take in a social-change movement without being center stage?

What do you say as a congressman to people who lived through Hurricane Maria and saw a lack of action from the federal government? said Salvador Gomez-Colon, 15, from Puerto Rico.

Lewis paused, then said, I believe today that the governments response is a shameful disgrace. Theres no excuse. He hugged Gomez-Colon.

When the boat returned to the pier, Eggers and the students headed to North Beach for an open-mike event at City Lights.

Its really exciting to hear these developing voices and to see future leaders at this age, Eggers said. You can just tell theyre going to do great things.

Jessica Zack is a Bay Area freelance writer.
Eight years after Elon Musk took electric car startup Tesla public, the mercurial CEO on Tuesday said he wants to turn the automaker back into a private company  at least for a while.

Musk, in a series of public tweets and an email to employees, said he had lined up the financing to take Tesla private, with stockholders to receive $420 per share.

The move, he said, would free Tesla from the public markets emphasis on quarterly results. It would rid the company of the short sellers who have bet that Teslas lofty stock price will fall, Musk added  people he has accused of spreading misinformation about Tesla and its cars.

The Palo Alto company, he said, might return to the public markets later, once it enters a period of slower, more predictable growth. The plan to go private, Musk said, would have to be approved by shareholders.

I fundamentally believe that we are at our best when everyone is focused on executing, when we can remain focused on our long-term mission, and when there are not perverse incentives for people to try to harm what were all trying to achieve, he wrote in the email, which the company later posted on its blog.

Musks announcement stunned investors and analysts, in part because many werent sure at first whether to take it seriously.

His first comment on the plan came in a tweet at 9:48 a.m., mentioning the proposed $420 per share offer. Musk has been known to kid with his Twitter followers, and because that number is common slang for marijuana, many commenters questioned whether he was making an odd pot joke.

He wasnt.

Tesla stock jumped. The Nasdaq exchange halted trading in Tesla stock for 97 minutes, sending traders a note indicating that the company had requested a hold in advance of making a material announcement. Trading resumed after Tesla posted Musks full explanation to the company blog, with shares closing the day up 11 percent, at $379.57.

I think in many ways, its a genius move, because it ends the drive-by shootings from the shorts and the critics, said Eric Schiffer, CEO of the Patriarch Organization, a private equity firm. Hes a big-vision guy. Hes much more of a marathon guy than a sprinter.

Founded in 2003, Tesla went public on June 29, 2010, offering shares at $17. Tapping the market gave the company an infusion of cash to open its Fremont factory and begin production of its electric Model S sedan, which launched in 2012.

Since the IPO, Tesla stock has soared, even though the company has reported just two profitable quarters. Musk has predicted for months that Tesla would finally reach sustained profitability in this years third quarter, as production of its Model 3 sedan  officially introduced last summer  finally ramps up.

The companys losses and cash burn, however, have made it one of the most hotly debated of stocks. Musk  whose rocket business SpaceX and tunneling startup the Boring Co. are both private  has often chafed at the intense scrutiny Tesla receives, particularly during the difficulties scaling up Model 3 production. And he has frequently fired back at the short sellers.

Tesla a-twitter CEO Elon Musk sent Tesla shares rocketing with a surprise announcement Tuesday. 6:30 a.m. Tesla shares open at $343.84. 9:01 a.m. Shares begin a sharp rise after a report that Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund has taken a stake in Tesla. 9:48 a.m. Elon Musk tweets: "Am considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured." 9:49 a.m. Shares leap to $370. 11:08 a.m. Nasdaq suspends trading with shares at $367.25. 12:45 p.m. Trading resumes. 1:00 p.m. Shares close at $379.57, up 11 percent . Note: All times Pacific Sources: Bloomberg, Tesla See More Collapse

Musk wrote Tuesday that any current shareholders who wanted to remain with Tesla would be able to do so if it goes private.

The company would create a special purpose fund for them, similar to one already in place at SpaceX. Under federal rules, that fund would count as a single Tesla shareholder, allowing Tesla to remain under the legal limit for the number of shareholders a company may have before it must file financial reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Am super appreciative of Tesla shareholders, Musk tweeted. Will ensure their prosperity in any scenario.

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Without that assurance, the offering of $420 per share probably would be too low, said Quint Tatro, managing director of the Joule Financial investment management firm. With it, the plan looks far more appealing. Tatro owns Tesla stock, and his company holds the stock in its clients portfolios.

Its a very attractive price point to stop all of the short-selling press attacking the company and all that Elons trying to do, Tatro said. You invest in Tesla not because of the fundamentals  the companys losing money every quarter. You invest in Tesla because of the entrepreneur and the visionary who is Elon Musk.

Teslas employees, Musk wrote, would remain shareholders, able to exercise their stock options and periodically sell stock. Thats already the case at SpaceX, he wrote.

Musk argued that SpaceX operates more efficiently than Tesla, in part because it is privately held. He said that he did not want to merge the two companies.

Basically, Im trying to accomplish an outcome where Tesla can operate at its best, free from as much distraction and short-term thinking as possible, and where there is as little change for all of our investors, including all of our employees, as possible, he wrote.

Many Wall Street analysts have insisted for months that Tesla will need to raise more funding sometime this year, to avoid running short on cash. Although Musk insists that isnt necessary, Schiffer said that a newly private Tesla would be able to raise money from private equity firms. And they may have more of a long-term focus than some current investors.

Theres plenty of capital there, he said. And frankly, theyd expect less.

David R. Baker is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: dbaker@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @DavidBakerSF
The 27-year-old homeless man suspected of stabbing two men on a train last week at the MacArthur BART Station in Oakland was arrested Tuesday afternoon, officials said.

Solomon Espinosa was on a Richmond-bound train at 7:50 p.m. Friday night when he allegedly attacked two men, whose names were not released. One of the victims was stabbed in the arm and the other suffered a wound to his face, said Anna Duckworth, a BART spokeswoman.

Espinosa fled the scene and disposed of a box cutter believed to be the weapon used in the attack, authorities said. He was arrested just before 1 p.m. Tuesday by officials with the U.S. Marshals task force in Oakland near Fifth Avenue and East Eighth Street, according to BART.

Officials did not provide additional details regarding his arrest and potential charges.

BART said surveillance video captured the altercation on the train and showed the two victims and Solomon spill onto the MacArthur platform as passengers fled, Duckworth said. It is unclear whether the train was at the station or moving at the time of the attack.

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The station was shut down for more than an hour Friday night while detectives wrapped caution tape around one of the ticket monitor areas at the ground level and swabbed for DNA evidence.

Just steps away from the ticket area, two prominent memorials still remained for Nia Wilson, the 18-year-old woman who was fatally stabbed in an unprovoked attack at the same BART station just two weeks prior.

BART officials made themselves available to media Saturday afternoon at the Rockridge Station to answer questions about yet another violent attack at one of the transit agencys train stations. Last month, three people died as a result of attacks on BART properties.

BART Police Deputy Chief Lance Haight said there were no officers on the platform when last weeks stabbing occurred.

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The two victims, who were released from Highland Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, ran down the platform and alerted police at the ground level after the attack.

At the time of the incident, Duckworth said, six BART police officers and three Oakland police officers were on duty at the station.

The arrest comes a day after BART officials announced new safety measures including increased police patrols on trains and inside stations, boosting security training for employees and installing emergency call boxes on train platforms.

Lauren Hernandez is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: lauren.hernandez@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @LaurenPorFavor
A 27-year-old Modesto man was sentenced to 15 years in prison Monday after pleading guilty to terrorism-related charges in a plot to attack San Franciscos Pier 39 over the holidays.

Everitt Aaron Jameson, a tow truck driver and former high school wrestler, pleaded guilty in June to one count of attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization.

In exchange for the guilty plea, prosecutors with the U.S. District Court in Sacramento asked for a sentence of 15 years in federal prison and a lifetime of supervised release. Judge Lawrence Joseph ONeill handed down the sentence Monday.

Jameson put his fellow Americans at risk by supporting ISIS and planning an attack on behalf of the terrorist organization, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers said in a statement. This is unacceptable, and I am grateful for the hardworking agents and prosecutors who are responsible for this successful result.

Jameson, who had converted to Islam, was snared by undercover FBI agents who were tipped off in September to suspicious posts on his Facebook page, where he liked pro-Islamic State and pro-terrorism posts and talked about launching his own terrorist attack.

The undercover agents began speaking with Jameson in December and discussed plans to launch an attack on San Francisco around Christmas.

Jameson specifically named Pier 39 in San Francisco as a target location because he had been there before and knew that it was a heavily crowded area and that according to Jameson, no reconnaissance or site survey would be necessary, FBI Agent Christopher McKinney wrote in a federal complaint.

Jameson, he said, planned to die in the attack.

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Posing as subordinates of Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, undercover agents later met Jameson in person to continue planning the attack, prosecutors said.

The FBI later raided Jamesons home and found two rifles, a pistol, ammunition, fireworks and two letters containing a last will and testament and a confession that he had committed acts against non-Muslims, prosecutors said.

Jameson was previously discharged from the U.S. Marine Corps  where he earned a sharpshooter qualification in 2009  for fraudulent enlistment after it was discovered he failed to disclose a latent asthma history.

He had recently lost custody of his two children.

Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky
San Francisco has the best weather in the world. I love fog, and mist that never quite turns into rain. I even love the fact that the sun can never make up its mind.

I feel this way roughly 350 days of the year. On the other days, often in the thick of July, when friends around the country are posting beach selfies with frozen margaritas, and San Francisco is 53 degrees and overcast with a crisp wind  and Im mad about it  theres the Wooden Nickel. If you cant swing a last-minute road trip to San Diego, its the next best thing.

Since opening three years ago on the southwest corner of 15th and Folsom, in a space previously occupied by the gay bar Truck, the Wooden Nickel has quietly become one of the coziest, most laid-back bars in the neighborhood. Its offerings are simple: reasonably priced well drinks (add a pony Miller High Life to any shot for a dollar); nine beers on tap; a rotating cast of pre-mixed alcoholic slushies served with festive paper umbrellas. A pool table, two small TVs, vintage signage, a jukebox that plays actual CDs.

And then theres this: a small window through which cooks serve hefty, hangover-obliterating California burritos, carne asada fries and rolled tacos  the hallmarks of San Diego Mexican cuisine.

The discussion about NorCal vs. SoCal Mexican food is an often-contentious one, and as an Orange County native, Wooden Nickel owner Nancy Chung is no stranger to the regional burrito debate. She did time in San Diego before heading north to San Francisco over a decade ago, and had been working at Truck for about a year when owner Paul Ringhofer-Miller put the place up for sale in 2015.

Craig Lee / Special to The Chronicle

Chung, a veteran bartender whod always had a vision for the bar shed like to own  a neighborhood place, a dive bar but a clean dive bar, especially the bathrooms  took the leap. (Initially she bought the business with fellow Mission bartenders Cassandra Fritzen and Shannon Lynn, but Chung says theyre no longer partners.)

Launching a new, not-gay business in the former digs of a gay institution is, of course, a loaded endeavor. Within a half-mile radius of the Wooden Nickel, the past few years have seen the closure of the beloved lesbian bar the Lexington Club (whose space now houses the upscale cocktail lounge Wildhawk), and Latino gay bar Esta Noche (now the similarly cocktail-focused Bond Bar).

The Nickel has cocktails, but it will never get accused of being swank. Well drinks and a generous selection of beers in cans or bottles are perennially welcome, though the stars of the menu are the slushies, in particular the aptly named Painkiller  a frozen pina colada with a deceptively potent punch, topped with grated nutmeg and a pineapple wedge. On my most recent visit the second slushie offering was a strawberry margarita, a bit too sweet for me but fresh and bright nonetheless.

Chung does hear from folks who lament Trucks closure, but she also says shes retained many of the previous establishments regulars. Its not a gay bar, but its also not a straight bar, insists the owner. Its a bar for the neighborhood, for the community. Its the kind of place where the neighbors have given us spare keys in case they get locked out.

Then theres the other built-in community, the one thats grown steadily by word of mouth: Anyone can recognize a good local watering hole, but San Diego transplants, understandably, really like the Wooden Nickel.

Craig Lee / Special to The Chronicle

They come in and order California burritos, like, 10 at a time, a cook named Jesse tells me one evening, leaning against the bar after ordering a swirl. (Yes, thats both of the bars frozen drinks swirled together.) He thinks for a moment, then asks for a floater of rum, too.

Hall & Oates are singing Private Eyes. Its a Saturday around 9 p.m., and the smell of french fries  the defining ingredient in California burritos and, of course, in carne asada fries  wafts dreamily from the kitchen.

Carne asada fries are ubiquitous in San Diego, not to mention available 24/7 at several establishments; as a student at UCSD, they may have saved my life on occasion. But in San Francisco, they're much harder to find. The Nickels rendition is legit, though I do wish the fries were a bit thicker  you need heft to maintain structural integrity under the weight of steak, three kinds of cheese (shredded cheddar, jack and cotija), pico de gallo, guacamole and crema.

The California burrito here, meanwhile, is a purists affair: meat, fries, tortilla, guac, sour cream; the whole thing wrapped tightly and pressed on a grill. Add some of the Wooden Nickels tangy house hot sauce, available in a squeeze bottle at the end of the bar. Try to eat just half, then fail and eat the whole thing. The juice from the meat will have pooled into the fries at the bottom, which means the last few bites are the best. You are doing it correctly.

Photos by Craig Lee / Special to The Chronicle

Tuesdays at the Wooden Nickel are Taco Tuesdays, meaning those in the know will show up at 6 on the nose and stay until at 8  two hours during which $1 gets you a Baja-style beer-battered shrimp taco, $2 gets you a crispy taco filled with chicken or potato, and $10 will send you home very, very full.

The Wooden Nickel doesnt quite have the personality of a true dive yet  much like fries at the bottom of a California burrito, it needs to marinate a bit longer. What it does currently have is a strong skater contingent. On a recent Monday I counted three different Thrasher T-shirts within 10 square feet, and a pile of five boards on the floor. But because this is the Mission, there are also employees from the tech company down the street; off-duty bartenders and other food-service folks sitting at the outdoor tables, smoking; and the occasional low-key Tinder date.

So, yes, its a typical neighborhood bar in many ways, but Chung notes that shes also proud of running a female-owned business in what, despite some progress, still feels like such a dude industry.

The stereotype for bar owners is that theyre the sleazy older guy at the end of the bar, hitting on girls 20 years younger than him, right? she says. It feels good to be something else, and I love that I have a lot of women bartenders. I look around my bar and theres always a lot of women, which isnt true most places Ive worked.

On my most recent visit, a new female bartender is on shift, training. Its one of those Mondays where you were just going to get one or two beverages with a friend and be on your way, but all of a sudden its 1 a.m.

Time has passed languidly inside this small corner bar, and the smiley new bartender is asking if youd like some sparkling water. My friend and I would. We both used to live in San Diego, after all, so naturally weve just split an order of carne asada fries.

Outside, theres a cold bite in the air. But here in the bar, someone has just put on the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who might as well be the house band for every generic beachside bar in Southern California, and we both laugh. Outside, its summer in San Francisco, but at the Wooden Nickel, its always frozen margarita weather.

Emma Silvers is a San Francisco freelance writer. Twitter: @emmaruthless Email: food@sfchronicle.com
LISBON, Portugal  Firefighters and anxious residents braced Tuesday for a fifth straight night of battling a major wildfire that is racing across tinder-dry forested hills in southern Portugal.

The blaze is sending high plumes of smoke across the Algarve regions famous beaches and bringing criticism of authorities for failing to halt the flames.

A strong seasonal wind from the north known as a nortada was driving the fire south toward Silves, a town of about 6,000 people, after it narrowly missed the smaller town of Monchique. Several hundred people were evacuated, and 29 were hurt, one seriously, officials said.

Almost 1,200 firefighters supported by 16 aircraft and 358 vehicles were deployed around Monchique, a town of 2,000 people about 155 miles south of Lisbon, where the blaze came within 500 yards of the local fire station.

An unknown number of homes  believed to number in the dozens, according to local reports  in the forested hills have burned down.

With so many resources deployed, many residents asked why the fire was still burning, especially after 95 percent of it was under control on Monday.

Firefighters also publicly questioned the wisdom of the strategy to counter the flames, with some claiming poor organization was thwarting the operation. Monchique was identified as a high-risk area months ago.

Firefighting is coordinated by the Civil Protection Agency, a government body overseen by the Ministry for the Interior, which oversees national defense.

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The National Association of Professional Firemen and the Professional Firemens Trade Union issued a joint statement saying that the governments recent reorganization of firefighting capabilities need to be reassessed and rethought. The organizations asked for a very urgent meeting with the Minister of the Interior.

Portugal beefed up its wildfire response over the winter after 109 people died last year in forest blazes amid a severe drought.

Barry Hatton is an Associated Press writer.
In just over a year, President Trump has gone from denying to acknowledging that his eldest son accepted a Russian offer to help him win the 2016 election. Its another sign of his telling shift from insisting that Special Counsel Robert Mueller wont find anything to questioning whether he ought to be looking.

The presidents admission coincided with other changes in his stance toward Muellers investigation. He and his allies have gone from denying that his campaign colluded with the Kremlin to arguing that doing so would not be illegal. Meanwhile, their efforts to thwart Muellers probe have grown more brazen.

Trumps latest Twitter tirade included a stark description of the June 2016 Trump Tower meeting between his close associates  his son Donald Trump Jr., his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and his then-campaign manager, Paul Manafort, who is now on trial  and a Russian delegation that included the regime-linked lawyer Natalia Veselnitskaya.  This was a meeting to get information on an opponent , the president wrote.

That directly contradicts his account of the meeting 13 months ago, when a statement to the New York Times attributed to the younger Trump said, We primarily discussed a program about the adoption of Russian children. Trumps lawyers ultimately acknowledged, after repeated denials, that the president had dictated the statement on his sons behalf.

The admission of the campaigns attempt to collaborate with the Russians comes as the presidents ceaseless chanting of the mantra that there was no collusion has given some way to a backup defense: that colluding with Russia would not be against the law. At the same time, Trump and company continue to paradoxically argue that he is innocent of this supposed noncrime.

A Trump tweet last week exemplified this belt-and-suspenders defense: Collusion is not a crime, but that doesnt matter because there was No Collusion. His latest outburst contains a similar contradiction, attempting to distance him from the Trump Tower meeting  I did not know about it!  even as he argues it was totally legal.

It is, by the way, totally illegal to collude with a foreign power to influence an election. Perhaps thats why Trumps efforts to undermine the investigation have become even more frantic of late. He has taken to attacking Mueller by name and has publicly called on Attorney General Jeff Sessions to abort the inquiry.

For a man who maintains that he has nothing to fear from the truth, the president has worked very hard to obscure it.

More Information Collusion confusion "The Crown prosecutor of Russia ... offered to provide the Trump campaign with some official documents and information that would incriminate Hillary. ... This is ... part of Russia and its government's support for Mr. Trump." - Rob Goldstone, email to Donald Trump Jr., June 3, 2016 "We primarily discussed a program about the adoption of Russian children." - Donald Trump Jr., statement to New York Times dictated by President Trump, July 8, 2017 A meeting participant "stated that she had information that individuals connected to Russia were funding the Democratic National Committee and supporting Ms. Clinton. ... She then changed subjects and began discussing the adoption of Russian children." - Donald Trump Jr., statement, July 9, 2017 "The information they suggested they had about Hillary Clinton I thought was Political Opposition Research. The woman ... had no information to provide and wanted to talk about adoption policy." -Donald Trump Jr., statement, July 11, 2017 "I think from a practical standpoint most people would have taken that meeting. It's called opposition research or even research into your opponent." - Donald Trump, press conference, July 13, 2017 "This was a meeting to get information on an opponent, totally legal and done all the time in politics. ... I did not know about it!" - President Trump, Twitter, Aug. 5, 2018 See More Collapse

This commentary is from The Chronicles editorial board. We invite you to express your views in a letter to the editor. Please submit your letter via our online form: SFChronicle.com/letters.
For Cameron Mackintosh, not worrying about a musicals commercial prospects has been remarkably lucrative.

The billionaire producer of Les Miserables, The Phantom of the Opera and Miss Saigon  all of which are in new versions at SHNs Orpheum Theatre over the next three months  doesnt have a set of questions to assess whether a show might be profitable.

I never think about that, Mackintosh, 71, says over the phone from his farm in Somerset, England. I only have ever put on shows because I have personally loved them ... and I think I can get something special out of them.

Before Cats, his breakout success, he was like every other producer, asking, How the f am I going to get enough money to put the show on? But even then, money wasnt his central concern. I have to fall in love with the story, the characters and the music and lyrics, he says. The writing is the thing that attracts me. Unless theres something about the story and the characters that I feel personally I can understand  unless somehow Ive got something I can bring to it, I dont do the show. I think I would just be a pain in the ass.

He says hes still annoying once he signs on to a project. I think the thing that makes me probably irritating as well is that Im involved in every single thing, every aspect of the show, from the writing to casting, from promotional artwork to orchestrations. Working with orchestrators, I make grunts, but they brilliantly turn my grunts into something else.

The only part hes not involved with is the most important element, which is the inspiration for how you tell a story, which can only come from the writers. I dont have original ideas. What I know is how to make other peoples originality fly. Thats what Im good at; Im putting the right teams together to make that happen.

Mackintosh got hooked on producing as a child from seeing the musical Salad Days, which was about a piano with the magic power to make everyone who hears it want to dance. It was being taken backstage on my eighth birthday, seeing how the scenery came together, how the pianos worked, how everything worked. It was my Road to Damascus moment. I went, Yup, thats what I want to do. I want to put all this together. He remembers being asked if he was going to be an impresario. When I was 8, I said, I dont want to be an impresario. Impresarios put on other peoples work. I want to put on my own.

If some theatergoers deride Mackintoshs repertoire as cheesy or overwrought, he says, (A), theyre in a minority and (B), you cant please everybody. I hope they find their equivalent. He doesnt buy the bromide that theater is in crisis. As the world is in turmoil at the moment ... theater is still a place that people want to go to. Rather than shun it, they actually embrace it.

Les Miserables: Book by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg, adapted from Victor Hugo and translated by Trevor Nunn and John Caird. Music by Schonberg. Lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer from the original French text by Boublil and Jean-Marc Natel, with additional material by James Fenton. Directed by Laurence Connor and James Powell. Wednesday, Aug. 8-Aug. 26. The Phantom of the Opera: Book by Richard Stilgoe and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Music by Webber. Lyrics by Charles Hart, with additional lyrics by Stilgoe. Directed by Connor. Sept. 5-30. Miss Saigon: Book by Boublil and Schonberg. Music by Schonberg. Lyrics by Boublil and Richard Maltby Jr. Directed by Connor. Oct. 9-Nov. 4. $56-$268, subject to change. SHN's Orpheum Theatre, 1192 Market St., S.F. 888-746-1799. www.shnsf.com See More Collapse

That argument has irrefutable evidence in Hamilton, which Mackintosh is co-producing in London. It absolutely speaks to audiences of all ages and all nationalities. Its not because everyones got a degree in American politics. Its because Lin (Manuel Miranda)s libretto is so brilliant. Its so well observed of humanity, that we all recognize, wherever we are in the world, that this is a both historical and entirely contemporary story.

In bringing new versions of Les Miz, Phantom and Miss Saigon to San Francisco, Mackintosh stresses that hes probably his teams toughest taskmaster. ... I dont want to do it new just for the sake of it; I want to do it new because it brings something fresh to a much-loved tale. And if it wasnt for how great these shows were originally, we would not have the privilege of being able to do them in a new way.

His new Les Miz will be much more colorful and more cinematic than the original version, drawing on the paintings of Victor Hugo, who wrote the novel on which the show is based. It came from an idea from Matt (Kinley, the shows designer.) ... He said, Did I realize how many paintings Victor Hugo had done? I went, No. He said, Well, guess. I said, Oh, a dozen. He said, No. 400. 

The new Phantom is more visceral, Mackintosh says. It dwells much more on the backstage story, in the sewers, in the lake  the subterranean domain of the Phantom. You feel much more of the underworld.

For all the international tours hes producing at any given time, Mackintosh insists that he loves going on holidays, that he loves the six or seven hundred cows that graze on his Somerset farm. He has great grass, which makes for really, really good milk. Hes never short of a good piece of cheese.

He might only have a few more new shows left in him, and he only keeps working because I can still find exciting new talent. He can still get something new out of the show or improve the design.

I never take for granted how important it is, he adds for people who are going to come and see a show, to see something fresh.

Lily Janiak is The San Francisco Chronicles theater critic. Email: ljaniak@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @LilyJaniak
Its only the second week in August, but the candidates in a key California House race have reached a new low: Theyre each accusing the other of stealing their slogans.

It started when Democrat Josh Harder tweeted out a campaign mailer sent out by his November election opponent in the Central Valleys congressional District 10, GOP Rep. Jeff Denham of Turlock (Stanislaus County), with the slogan, From the Valley. For the Valley.

Hmm, said Team Harder. That sounds awfully similar to their slogan, Of the Valley. For the Valley.

The absurdity of this statement is that Denham has lived in Washington, D.C.s, suburbs since he was elected to Congress (in 2010) and is certainly not for the valley, said Harder campaign manager Chelsea Brossard.  I know that imitation is the highest form of flattery, but I wish Denham would imitate the valleys values and get voters the health care they deserve.

Wait a minute, said Denham strategist Dave Gilliard. Jeffs slogan goes back several election cycles. Harder is the one doing the copying.

Perhaps both candidates feel they need to reaffirm their homeboy valley cred in a district that includes Stanislaus County and a slice of San Joaquin County.

Even though Harders family goes back five generations in the valley, and he grew up in Turlock and graduated from Modesto High School, Denham dings him as being a San Francisco carpetbagger. Thats a reference to Harders work for a venture capital firm in the city for several months after he attended Stanford and Harvard. He also worked for several years after that in Boston and New York, then returned to Turlock in April 2017.

Denham has his own ties outside the valley. He owns a business in Salinas, Denham Plastics, that is his primary source of income, according to federal financial disclosure forms. He lived in Salinas for part of the time he represented a now-redrawn state Senate district in the 2000s that included parts of Monterey and San Benito counties in addition to Stanislaus, Merced and Madera counties.

His campaign signs bill him as a local farmer, but he doesnt actually till his land. He rents it out.

Does this all sound petty? Not to the campaigns. Both camps believe every little advantage matters in a race this tight. This is one of the 11 GOP-held seats in California that Democrats are targeting in the hope of recapturing the House, and one of seven that Hillary Clinton won in 2016. Denham won the June primary, but with only 38 percent of the vote. Harder finished second with 17 percent.

A Democratic-sponsored survey of 501 likely voters taken in late June showed each candidate with 48 percent support and only 4 percent of voters expressing no preference. However, the survey found that 21 percent of all voters are still persuadable, either because they are undecided or willing to consider the candidate they currently are not supporting.

Denham strategist Gilliard was dubious of the poll, noting that the poll was done in late June. Why are they only releasing now? Also, the low undecided is not believable and tells me it was after push questions.

He said that our polling has consistently shown Jeff with a solid lead.

At this point, both campaigns are looking for a sign ... of hope.

Deep dives and late takes

President Trumps tweets falsely claiming environmental laws are taking water from wildfire crews had a subtext: Hes siding with Central Valley farmers in Californias water wars.

California lawmakers want to know whats wrong with the Department of Motor Vehicles. Meanwhile, you cant get a DMV appointment in San Francisco.

One of the biggest apartment management outfits in the state is pouring money into the campaign to defeat a ballot measure that would let cities impose more rent control.

Gov. Jerry Brown says weve got two years to go before theres a recession, if were lucky.

A city analysis says a proposed tax on big San Francisco companies would disproportionately affect workers in mid-level jobs.

A Republican president tried once before to kill Californias right to impose strict rules on car emissions. Heres what happened.

Sean Spicer had an idea he wouldnt last long as President Trumps White House press secretary. That idea came on his second day on the job.

Money talks, and right now the money is saying Republicans have little chance of winning statewide office.

John Coxs first ad in the November race for California governor borrows from Donald Trump in tone and John Kerry in sloganeering.

A San Francisco supervisor candidates debate and a forum on proposed cannabis regulations highlight the Bay Area political calendar.

The Political Punch newsletter publishes every Tuesday and Thursday between noon and 3 p.m. It is produced by the staff of the San Francisco Chronicle and edited by politics editor Trapper Byrne. Email: tbyrne@sfchronicle.com
Its only the second week in August, but the candidates in a key California House race have reached a new low: Theyre each accusing the other of stealing their slogans.

It started when Democrat Josh Harder tweeted out a campaign mailer sent out by his November election opponent in the Central Valleys congressional District 10, GOP Rep. Jeff Denham of Turlock (Stanislaus County), with the slogan, From the Valley. For the Valley.

Hmm, said Team Harder. That sounds awfully similar to their slogan, Of the Valley. For the Valley.

The absurdity of this statement is that Denham has lived in Washington, D.C.s, suburbs since he was elected to Congress (in 2010) and is certainly not for the valley, said Harder campaign manager Chelsea Brossard. I know that imitation is the highest form of flattery, but I wish Denham would imitate the valleys values and get voters the health care they deserve.

Wait a minute, said Denham strategist Dave Gilliard.

Jeffs slogan goes back several election cycles. Harder is the one doing the copying.

Perhaps both candidates feel they need to reaffirm their homeboy valley cred in a district that includes Stanislaus County and a slice of San Joaquin County.

Even though Harders family goes back five generations in the valley, and he grew up in Turlock and graduated from Modesto High School, Denham dings him as being a San Francisco carpetbagger. Thats a reference to Harder working for a venture capital firm in the city for several months after attending Stanford and Harvard. He also lived and worked for several years after that in Boston and New York, then returned to Turlock in April 2017.

Denham has his own ties outside the valley. He owns a business in Salinas, Denham Plastics, that is his primary source of income, according to federal financial disclosure forms. He lived in Salinas for part of the time that he represented a now-redrawn state Senate district in the 2000s that included parts of Monterey and San Benito counties in addition to Stanislaus, Merced and Madera counties.

His campaign signs bill him as a local farmer, but he doesnt actually till his land. He rents it out.

Does this all sound petty? Not to the campaigns. Both camps believe every little advantage matters in a race this tight. This is one of the 11 GOP-held seats in California that Democrats are targeting in the hope of recapturing the House, and one of seven that Hillary Clinton won in 2016. Denham won the June primary, but with only 38 percent of the vote. Harder finished second with 17 percent.

A Democratic-sponsored survey of 501 likely voters taken in late June showed each candidate with 48 percent support and only 4 percent of voters expressing no preference. However, the survey found that 21 percent of all voters are still persuadable, either because they are undecided or willing to consider the candidate they currently are not supporting.

Denham strategist Gilliard was dubious of the poll, noting that the poll was done in late June. Why are they only releasing now? Also, the low undecided is not believable and tells me it was after push questions.

He said that our polling has consistently shown Jeff with a solid lead.

At this point, both campaigns are looking for a sign ... of hope.

Joe Garofoli is The San Francisco Chronicles senior political writer. Email: jgarofoli@

sfchronicle.com Twitter: @joegarofoli
San Franciscos narrowing middle class, already squeezed by the high cost of living could take another hit if a new business tax is approved in the November election, according to the citys Office of Economic and Workforce Development.

The measure, approved for Novembers ballot last month, would levy an average of about 0.5 percent gross receipts tax on companies that make $50 million or more in revenue. In return, it would roughly double the citys funding for housing and homeless services, such as 1,000 extra shelter beds and services for the mentally ill.

Homelessness activists, nonprofits and community groups strongly support the measure, saying its time for the citys businesses to do more to alleviate San Franciscos homeless population.

But, according to a memo sent to the mayors office by the Office of Economic and Workforce Development last week and obtained by The Chronicle, the extra tax would disproportionately impact employees in mid-level jobs, such as administrative staff in retail companies and grocery store workers.

There is a limit on how high taxes can go before you decide to go to Oakland, where the taxes are much, much lower, Jim Lazarus, senior vice president of public policy for the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, said of businesses located in the city. There are companies in San Francisco that pay more San Francisco tax than they pay in other states.

Many of the firms facing large tax increases have significant regional and national footprints, and large shares of middle income, non-technical support and administrative roles in San Francisco  the jobs largely considered the easiest to move, the memo said. Those are the kinds of jobs that are more easily moved to locales with lower taxes, it stated.

We need to be conscious of who our revenue generating measures are affecting. In this case, it seems the potential to impact middle income jobs should cause concerns, said Joaquin Torres, director of the Office of Economic and Workforce Development.

The office estimates that the revenues from the tax would come from less than 5 percent of the citys businesses. And if passed, the measure may more than double the current gross receipts tax, costing San Francisco businesses about $280 million to $300 million a year, the memo said.

Lazarus said some businesses impacted by the measure could be grocery stores, such as Safeway and Whole Foods  as well as large retailers that are already struggling to stay afloat, such as Macys and Nordstrom. The memo estimated that less than 5 percent of the citys 88,000 businesses would be subject to the new tax and that most of them would be involved in professional services, financial services, information and retail. Others could be companies that have a large administrative presence in the city, like Visa and McKesson.

Paul Chinn/The Chronicle

Another proposal headed for the November ballot  a gross receipts tax on cannabis operations  could also add to companies tax burdens and would make San Francisco a more expensive place to do business.

Concerned about how this measure will squeeze out middle-class jobs from the city, the Chamber of Commerce established a coalition last week  Right Priority, Wrong Approach  to defeat the measure. It hired BMWL & Partners and 50+1 Strategies as political consultants for this campaign.

But those who support the measure, such as Evan Owski, a software engineer at LinkedIn and a large donor to the ballot initiatives campaign, said the notion that imposing this gross receipts tax would cause large multinational companies to pull out of the city is laughable.

This is a classic tactic of big business, he said. They keep saying job killing over and over, which scares people, so they dont have to keep paying for these vital social services.

Supervisor Catherine Stefani said she is not convinced the measure would solve the citys homeless problem.

San Francisco already is spending more than $300 million a year on homelessness and the problem seems to be getting worse, she said in a statement. Id have to be convinced that taxing San Francisco hundreds of millions more is a good idea, considering the measure contains no plan, no accountability and no reforms, and the citys own analysis says its going to cost middle-class jobs.

Mayor London Breed is assessing the potential impact of this tax on the citys long-term economic health, according to a statement from her press office.

The measure exceeded the amount of necessary signatures to appear on the ballot. A poll of 400 likely voters conducted last month by David Binder Research and commissioned by South of Market affordable housing manager Todco found 66 percent in favor and 28 percent opposed to the measure.

Another poll dated Monday, conducted by EMC Research, showed less support, with 53 percent of likely voters backing the tax and 45 percent opposed. The report said that support for the tax to fund homeless services hovers above a majority, but is vulnerable to a well-funded opposition campaign.

We have people power, and we can use that people power to defeat the millions that they will throw at this, Owski said of the opposition campaign.

Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle

Christin Evans, one of the original petitioners of the ballot measure and an owner of the Booksmith on Haight Street, said by taxing companies with more than $50 million in revenue, the tax would impact companies that can shoulder the extra cost. And, she added, increasing homelessness services would be a net positive for businesses, as it will help attract workers and tourists to the city.

These are not mom-and-pop retailers, she said. I think the city is at the point and is ready. What weve found in our drive to collect signatures (is) hundreds of people who say this is a fair and measured way of tackling the homeless crisis.

But Alan Auerbach, a UC Berkeley professor and director of its tax policy center, said given how high sales taxes are in the city, 0.5 percent in gross receipts isnt negligible.

It will have cascading effects, he said. It is half a percent, its not 10 percent, so you might think its small  but unlike a sales tax, it is hitting everything.

Gross receipts taxes are taxes on the total gross revenue of a company, regardless of the source of the revenue. Auerbach said, ideally, the city should not have to deal with funding homeless services on its own.

Homelessness is less of a city problem than a state or national problem, he said. If we had any sense, we would be dealing with it at a higher level than the city. Homelessness may be in San Francisco, but its not just a problem that San Francisco should be controlling on its own.

Jennifer Friedenbach, executive director of the Coalition on Homelessness and one of the measures backers, said she is not worried by the opposition campaign. She said the initiative has had a ground swelling of response.

This issue effects all of San Francisco, and this is a really carefully crafted way to address it, she said. It is time to turn this around in a big way, and it will cost money to do it  and this is a fair way to get us there.

Trisha Thadani is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: tthadani@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @TrishaThadani
Its easy to feel like an underachiever when you hang around with Kendra Aronson. At 31, shes a blogger, founder of the Central Coast Creatives Club and go-to web designer for the areas top restaurants.

Shes also the designer, writer, recipe tester, stylist, photographer and promoter for The San Luis Obispo Farmers Market Cookbook ($35 at Omnivore Books in S.F. and www.slofarmersmarketcookbook.com), inspired by the storied market that shuts down several downtown blocks of Higuera Street from 6 to 9 p.m. every Thursday. More than 70 farmers from the Central Coast sell everything from fruit to flowers, but there are also vendors selling ready-to-eat foods, live music on each block and shops that stay open late.

Aronson was a freshman in language studies at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and new to the idea of seasonality when she visited the market for the first time. I remember having strawberries there and losing my mind, she says.

A few years later, as a graduate student in San Francisco, she was shopping at the Ferry Building and came across The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market Cookbook. The lightbulb went off. I thought: This needs to exist for SLO, and I need to be the one to do it. She bookmarked the idea.

Mason Trinca / Special to The Chronicle

Three years and a successful Kickstarter campaign later, she produced the cookbook. It features 60 seasonal recipes as well as profiles and short stories about local farmers and chefs. Theres also a shout-out from her idol, Alice Waters.

Aronsons enthusiasm for all things SLO keeps her tapped into a community she loves to share with visitors every opportunity she gets. Not surprisingly, a visit to the market is at the top of her to-do list.

Everyone is so friendly and genuine and they really support small local mom and pop, she says, adding, It doesnt hurt that its beautiful here. We have the mountains and the ocean and its sunny most of the time. And then the food, obviously.

Here she dishes on more San Luis Obispo County favorites.

A few favorites

General Store Paso: The one-stop shop for unique gifts and local provisions for the epicurean in your life. They carry an extensive collection of cookbooks, picnic blankets, cocktail mixers, cooking oils, spice blends, kitchen linens, wooden spoons, sheeps milk ice cream sandwiches  every item in this shop sparks joy, including the women behind the counter. 841 12th St., Paso Robles. 805-226-5757, www.generalstorepr.com

Grow Nursery: A retail plant nursery tucked away in the sleepy downtown of Cambria, truly a hidden gem. They specialize in rare and unusual succulents, handmade pottery thrown by local potters on the Central Coast, breathtaking mineral specimens and a wide variety of air plants. 2024 Main St., Cambria. 805-924-1340, www.grownursery.com

Fish Gaucho: You have two opportunities to cash in on happy hour at Fish Gaucho: 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and every night 9 to close. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and epic food portions, paired with their incredible craft margaritas and flights of Tequila or mezcal (over 140 to choose from). 1244 Park St., Paso Robles. 805-239-3333, www.fishgaucho.com

The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar: Wet your whistle with these original seasonally driven cocktails mixed up by their award-winning mixologist, Robin Wolf. Every cocktail ingredient is carefully considered: from atypical fresh squeezed juices (carrots, kiwis, cherries) to her own handcrafted bitters with culinary combos like rose and pink peppercorn, or grapefruit and habanero chile. 835 13th St., Paso Robles. 805-221-5727, www.hatchpasorobles.com

Ember: When a Chez Panisse alum opens up their own restaurant, you know its going to be a success. Chef-owner Brian Collins serves Italian-inspired, seasonally driven, wood-fired food five nights a week, dinner only, no reservations. Its absolutely worth the wait. 1200-E Grand Ave., Suite 101, Arroyo Grande. 805-474-7700, www.emberwoodfire.com

Rutiz Farms: There is always something fun happening at this adorable farm stand: U-pick berries and flowers, summer corn roasts and wood-fired pizza featuring fresh produce. A salt-of-the-earth crew supplies many of the top-notch farm-to-table restaurants in SLO County and Los Angeles, too. 1075 The Pike, Arroyo Grande. 805-481-3582, www.rutizfarms.com

Montana de Oro: MDO  as the locals call it  is like a little slice of Big Sur but with a fraction of the traffic. The jagged coastline features postcard-worthy coastal plains, steep cliffs, powerful waves and secret coves. The trails are loved by all: mountain bikers, hikers, horseback riders and nature enthusiasts. 3550 Pecho Valley Road, Los Osos. 805-528-0513, www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=592
KABUL  A string of Taliban attacks in Afghanistan have killed 12 people, including four women who died in the crossfire during a shootout between insurgents and soldiers, while an errant NATO air strike killed nine Afghan police, Afghan officials said Tuesday.

The Taliban attacked a military checkpoint in western Farah province, killing four troops and wounding six, according to Mohammad Naser Mehri, the provincial governors spokesman. The attack in Bala Buluk district started late Monday night and lasted for several hours. Mehri said Afghan air strikes killed 19 Taliban fighters and wounded 30.

The Taliban were pushed back and the situation is under control now, he said.

In the eastern Logar province, the four women were killed and four children were wounded in the crossfire during a shootout near Puli Alim, the provincial capital, said Hasibullah Stanikzai, a provincial council member. He said an investigation is under way to determine which side caused the civilian casualties.

In a separate attack in Logar, the Taliban assaulted police checkpoints in the Azrah district, setting off heavy fighting and causing the police to call for help.

Nasrat Rahimi, deputy spokesman for the Interior Ministry, said NATO carried out an air strike in the area that mistakenly killed nine police and wounded 14 others. He said NATO and the Afghan government have opened a joint investigation into the incident.

Lt. Col. Martin ODonnell, a spokesman for NATO, confirmed that it carried out an air strike in support of Afghan forces in Azrah.

We are aware of varying and unconfirmed reports, and are looking into the matter further, he added.

Rahimi said around 30 Taliban fighters were killed in the battle. The Taliban have not commented on recent attacks.

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.

The Taliban have stepped up attacks across the country since NATO and the U.S. formally ended their combat mission in 2014, and have seized control of several districts. An Islamic State affiliate has carried out dozens of deadly attacks in recent years, mainly targeting security forces and minority Shiites.

Amir Shah is an Associated Press writer.
Patrick Little's Senate campaign against incumbent Diane Feinstein failed in April. Now Little is reportedly taking his message of anti-Semitism and white nationalism to North Idaho, where he claims he plans to establish a "regional capital" intended to fight "the nation-wrecking plans of leftists and their Jewish controllers who aim to ruin people forever."

Little espoused his message of hate and segregation via robocalls he allegedly left on the voicemails of residents of Sandpoint, Idaho. Playing in the background is The Rembrandts' hit 1995 single "I'll Be There for You," otherwise known as the theme song of sitcom "Friends."

"America has a Jewish problem," a chipper Little says to begin the call, audio of which was obtained by the Spokesman-Review. He goes on to announce his plans to make Sandpoint "one of my new regional capitals throughout the country" when he arrives in mid-August.

Little then says he is traveling around the nation to engage "with folks on the problems we face and how to solve them together as the extended family our European people are." He finishes by touting North Idaho's "pioneer spirit of hard work, family values, common sense and fighting off the nation-wrecking plans of leftists  and their Jewish controllers who aim to ruin our people forever."

On his website, Little describes himself as a "Mainer by birth, a husband by choice, an experienced IT engineer" and a veteran of the war in Afghanistan. He did not return messages seeking comment.

The California Republican Party denounced Little and removed from a party convention in May. Throughout his failed campaign, Little espoused anti-Semitic and white nationalist views, advocating for the removal of Jewish people from the United States and the establishment of all-white "continuity zones."

Little placed 12th in the June primary, claiming on his website that the sharp loss was a result of vote rigging.

In an email to Snopes, California Republic Party spokesperson Matt Fleming said Little has never been an active party member.

"I do not know Mr. Little and I am not familiar with his positions," he told the rumor debunking website. "But in the strongest terms possible, we condemn anti-semitism and any other form of religious bigotry, just as we do with racism, sexism or anything else that can be construed as a hateful point of view."

Read Michelle Robertson's latest stories and send her news tips at mrobertson@sfchronicle.com.

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Facebook is being asked to change rules that restrict how journalists and scholars conduct research on the site  a request that raises unresolved issues about how the First Amendment applies to the social media era.

In a letter this week, lawyers for a group of researchers and journalists asked CEO Mark Zuckerberg to alter the agreement that people must adhere to to use the site. They want Facebook to create a newsgathering exception to its bans on creating inauthentic accounts and on using automated tools that scrape public data about users for large-scale analysis.

The request comes as Facebook has stepped up enforcement of such rules because it is under intense scrutiny over its failure to stop Russias use of fake accounts to stoke tensions and manipulate the 2016 election, and over the revelation that the now-defunct consulting firm Cambridge Analytica acquired and mined millions of Facebook users information to help Donald Trumps campaign.

We understand that, in the wake of revelations concerning the Cambridge Analytica scandal, Facebook is facing new pressure to protect the data that users entrust to it, the lawyers wrote. This pressure is warranted and indeed overdue. Addressing legitimate privacy concerns, however, need not entail the obstruction of public-interest journalism and research.

Campbell Brown, head of the companys global news partnerships, said in a statement that Facebook appreciates the recommendations, but she did not say whether it would adopt them.

Journalists and researchers play a critical role in helping people better understand companies and their products  as well as holding us accountable when we get things wrong, she said. We do have strict limits in place on how third parties can use peoples information and we recognize that these sometimes get in the way of this work.

The journalists and researchers are represented by the Knight First Amendment Institute at Columbia University. This year, the institute won a U.S. District Court ruling that it was unconstitutional for President Trump to block users from his Twitter account for criticizing or mocking him; the Justice Department has appealed.

If Facebook made the institutes proposed changes, it would be clear, for example, that journalists can create temporary research accounts expressing different political views to see which political ads go to real Facebook users. Such accounts would be labeled to avoid fooling users into thinking real people were behind them.

The letter to Zuckerberg asks him to voluntarily change Facebooks terms. But its footnotes contain the outline of a legal argument based on First Amendment concerns.

A violation of Facebooks terms carries the risk of legal liability under the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. That act includes a provision that forbids exceeding ones authorized access on a website, to permit lawsuits or criminal charges.

While the Justice Department has taken the position that the act applies to violations of websites terms, that broad interpretation has already been challenged several times. The American Civil Liberties Union is pursuing a case arguing that applying the act to researchers and journalists is unconstitutional.

Appeals courts have disagreed about how broadly to interpret the act and the Supreme Court will eventually need to resolve the terms-of-service question  but that will take a long time, said Orin Kerr, a University of Southern California law professor who specializes in studying computer crimes.

Its not crystal clear, he said. There are legitimate concerns about legal liability for violating terms of service. Criminal prosecution is very unlikely, but civil suits are possible, and in the absence of a definitive legal ruling, persuading a computer owner to change policies is one way out. Its a short-term solution that works at one site.

But, with more than 2 billion users, Facebook is no ordinary site. The Knight Institute asked Zuckerberg to respond to its letter by Sept. 7, citing the urgency of permitting research on the site heading into the midterm elections.

The institute included a proposed amendment to Facebooks terms that would permit journalists and scholars to use the otherwise banned techniques for the purpose of gathering information for the public, as long as they obeyed certain rules  such as not selling the data to commercial aggregators or advertisers.

As examples of the kind of journalism research that could be conducted more freely if the rules were changed, the letter cited a Gizmodo project that explored how Facebooks algorithm identifies people users may know and unintended problems; a New York Times article exposing a market in fake followers; a ProPublica investigation about how Facebooks self-service advertising system enabled discriminatory housing practices; and a Columbia University digital journalism project that scrutinized the reach of Russian disinformation.

Facebook has sometimes instructed journalists or researchers to stop similar projects as a violation of its terms, the letter said, and the mere possibility of legal action has a significant chilling effect, prompting some to downsize or abandon projects.

Brown also noted that Facebook offers tools for journalists that protect peoples privacy, including a technique for helping measure the performance of content on social media and a new method it is rolling out to analyze political advertising.

But Jameel Jaffer, executive director of the Knight First Amendment Institute, said that despite such channels, Facebook still prohibits journalists and researchers from using certain tools that are crucial to their work. Trying to study Facebook without these tools is like trying to study the ocean without leaving the shore.

Charlie Savage is a New York Times writer.
Wells Fargo is facing fresh outrage over its latest revelation of harm to customers after the bank admitted last week that its error had contributed to hundreds of people losing their homes to foreclosure.

In the disclosure, made in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Wells said its error caused more than 600 people in foreclosure to be incorrectly denied, or not offered, modifications to make home loans more affordable. Of that group, about 400 ultimately lost their homes, according to the bank, which apologized for the mistake.

There may be more victims. In its filing, Wells did not rule out uncovering additional problems, noting, This effort to identify other instances in which customers may have experienced harm is ongoing, and it is possible that we may identify other areas of potential concern.

The admission comes almost two years after a sales scandal over unauthorized customer accounts, which stained the reputation of the San Francisco bank. The latest disclosure adds to the list of problematic practices Wells Fargo has admitted to since the sales scandal that have drawn the scrutiny of federal regulators.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D- Mass., who has been an outspoken critic of the company, in a tweet Monday reiterated her calls for CEO Tim Sloan to be fired. Sloan took over in 2016 after former CEO John Stumpf resigned because of the sales scandal.

Because of an error @WellsFargo made, 400 of its customers lost their homes, Warren tweeted. Whats the bank doing to make it right? Setting aside a few thousand dollars for each of the people affected. Pathetic. The execs who oversaw this  including CEO Tim Sloan  should be fired.

Consumer advocates said they also are upset with Wells Fargo.

Its disgraceful that Wells Fargo has once again failed customers so miserably, said Al Ripley, director of the North Carolina Justice Centers consumer and housing project. The federal government and all state attorneys general should launch an investigation of these most recent revelations about Wells Fargos mortgage servicing and aggressively represent those homeowners.

In a statement Monday, Wells Fargo spokesman Tom Goyda said the bank works hard to help customers stay in their homes after encountering financial difficulties. He said the bank has completed more than 1 million mortgage modifications since the beginning of 2009.

Because of our approach to lending and homeownership preservation, our delinquency and foreclosure rates were below industry average during the housing crisis and remain so to this day, Goyda said.

Wells Fargo said it has dedicated $8 million in relief to customers affected by the mortgage problem. That works out to $12,800 per customer on average.

Goyda said the bank hasnt disclosed individual awards. But customers are receiving what Wells Fargo believes is appropriate given the circumstances, he said.

Consumer advocates say that its an insufficient amount for families who lost their homes and experienced trauma because of it.

Foreclosures can have devastating ripple effects, including health problems for parents and struggles in school for children, the advocates said.

Honestly, its offensive because no one who has lost their home due to foreclosure by the fault of the bank itself can afford to get back on their feet with $12,800, said Kelly Tornow, director of North Carolina policy for the Center for Responsible Lending.

It has such a trickle-down effect to a persons and a familys economic security, she said. For many, the damage has already been done and apologies dont fix the problem.

Several banking regulators and the Department of Justice either declined to comment Monday or said they generally dont comment on such matters.

In its disclosure, Wells Fargo said that an internal review found a bank error that affected accounts in the foreclosure process between April 2010 and October 2015.

Many Americans struggling during the recession were seeking more affordable mortgage payments from Wells and other banks to remain in their homes after losing jobs.

Goyda said that some of the affected customers had applied for a modification through the federal governments Home Affordable Modification Program. The Treasury Department started the program in 2009 to help homeowners avoid foreclosure.

The banks review of the matter is substantially complete and Wells will begin customer outreach and remediation once the review is finalized, Goyda said.

Consumer advocates criticized Wells Fargo for waiting nearly three years to disclose this error. According to the banks disclosure, it corrected the problem in October 2015.

Asked about the delay, Goyda said: It was some time after the error was initially corrected that we determined the need to look more closely for potential impacts.

Linda Jun, senior policy counsel for Americans for Financial Reform, called the new findings more pieces that just keep getting added to the piles of evidence that Wells Fargo has systematically wronged consumers.

Its entirely consistent with their repeated pattern of abusive and deceitful practices, she said. Whats needed is both real recompense for peoples losses and suffering, and a whole different level of accountability for Wells Fargo, and for the individuals in senior management.

Deon Roberts is a Charlotte Observer writer.
Firefighters got the upper hand Tuesday on the withering onslaught of fire that has plagued California for three weeks, but the continuing heat and parched conditions left exhausted firefighters anxious about what might come next.

Seventeen fires burned Tuesday afternoon, but fire officials said progress was made on the worst of them, including the twin wildfires known as the Mendocino Complex Fire, which doubled in size over the past five days, becoming the largest wildfire in recorded state history.

We are getting good containment on several of the fires, but we are responding to about 50 new fires a day and there is always the threat that one of these small fires will turn into a larger fire, said Jonathan Cox, Northern California battalion chief for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire. Weather-wise, we are still seeing a lot of heat throughout California and every day the vegetation is getting even drier, so conditions could get worse before they get better.

Federal immigration officials suspended enforcement efforts in areas affected by the wildfires, except in the event of a serious criminal presenting a public safety threat, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced Tuesday.

The enforcement suspension includes evacuation sites and assistance centers such as shelters and food banks, the agency said in a statement.

ICE is deeply concerned by the devastation wildfires have caused in significant portions of Northern California, the statement said. Our thoughts remain with those impacted by this tragedy, while our highest priority remains the preservation of life and safety wherever possible.

Among the major fires burning Tuesday were:

the Mendocino Complex fire, near Clear Lake, which had scorched 292,692 acres  more than 450 square miles  in Mendocino, Lake and Colusa counties by Tuesday evening. It was 34 percent contained.

The fire, which was spreading northeasterly in Colusa County, near Leesville, had destroyed 75 homes and damaged 68 other structures. Thousands of residents remained evacuated and 11,300 buildings were threatened, Cal Fire officials said.

Containment lines were built around the perimeter of the complexs River Fire and along the southern edge of the larger Ranch Fire.

Paul Grenier, a Cal Fire spokesman, said there was enough containment in populated areas between the two fires for some evacuees to return home. Residents in the northwestern corner of Clear Lake  including the communities of Blue Lakes, Bachelor Valley, Witter Springs, Saratoga Springs and the Scotts Valley Road area  were allowed back Tuesday.

Containment lines were not solid enough to allow evacuees to return to Nice, Lucerne or Pepperwood Grove, Grenier said.

the Holy Fire, which erupted Monday in Orange County and had grown to 3,399 acres by Tuesday evening. It raced over steep terrain in Holy Jim Canyon, on the west side of the Santa Ana Mountains, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

the Carr Fire, near Redding, which had consumed 172,055 acres and was 47 percent contained Tuesday evening. The fire had killed seven people and destroyed 1,077 residences since it started July 23. It was burning northward through steep, mountainous terrain with heavy timber along the Shasta-Trinity county line. It is the sixth most destructive, 13th most deadly and 12th largest fire in California history.

the Ferguson Fire, which has closed the most popular parts of Yosemite National Park at the peak of tourist season. It had burned 94,992 acres and was 43 percent contained as of Tuesday evening. The fire remained mostly west of the park, where crews directed flames into less flammable burn scars left by previous blazes. The relentless conflagration nevertheless burned into park boundaries on the southern end.

Flames skirted three entrances and charred debris fell into the roadways, said Kelly Martin, the chief of fire and aviation for Yosemite National Park. The fear, she said, is that the fire will burn over the rim into inaccessible terrain in Merced Canyon, creating a long-term problem for firefighters.

There are still significant issues to public safety and firefighter safety, Martin said. This is very steep, very rugged terrain that is very, very dangerous to firefighters.

Hot, windy weather subsided Monday and Tuesday and allowed fire crews to build and strengthen containment lines. Still, Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, Wawona, and the Mariposa and Merced groves of giant sequoias remained closed, along with western park entrances on Highway 41 and Highway 140.

Highway 120, also known as Tioga Road, was opened to Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Pass, but access into Yosemite Valley continued to be blocked at Crane Flat. Highway 140 reopened Tuesday afternoon through El Portal but remained closed at the national park boundary.

Michael Cabanatuan and Peter Fimrite are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: mcabanatuan@sfchronicle.com, pfimrite@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ctuan, @pfimrite
The man shot to death on the Bay Bridge early Monday morning has been identified as a rapper from Texas.

The San Francisco medical examiners office said the shooting victim was Darryl Stinnette, 31, of Mesquite, Tex. ReverbNation, a music website, said Stinnette was a rapper known as Lil Pooh, who specialized in hip hop and gangsta rap.

California Highway Patrol officials said the shooting occurred on the Bay Bridges eastbound lanes at about 2:15 a.m. A witness, Raul Lopez, was nearly caught in the line of fire. He was driving in the center lane on the lower deck of the bridge when he heard five pops that sounded like fireworks coming from the left side of his Honda Civic.

Before he could look over to see the source of the commotion, a black sport utility vehicle on his right careened into his car, sending both vehicles spinning out of control.

A third vehicle, which apparently carried the shooter, fled.

Investigators said they were looking into whether the shooter was in a silver or gray SUV or sedan but provided no other information.

When the vehicles came to a stop, Lopez said, Stinnette was slumped over dead  bloody from gunshot wounds. Another man in the back seat was bleeding heavily from a gunshot wound on his upper left arm and the front seat passenger was walking around in shock.

Paramedics and the California Highway Patrol rushed to the scene, closing all eastbound lanes of the bridge for more than four hours as morning commuters became marooned on the lower deck.

Two of the three passengers in the SUV were taken to a hospital, where they were expected to recover from their injuries, said Officer Kris Borer, a CHP spokesman. At least one man had a gunshot wound, but authorities would not elaborate on the injuries.

Authorities have not revealed a possible motive for the attack.

According to ReverbNation, Stinnette was given the name Lil Pooh by his mother as a child. He started recording on a boom box in the 1990s.

Three lanes of the lower deck of the Bay Bridge reopened around 6:30 a.m. Monday.

Michael Cabanatuan and Evan Sernoffsky are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: mcabanatuan@sfchronicle.com; esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @ctuan; @EvanSernoffsky
So, it has come to this. Spike Lee is relevant again. Hes necessary again.

His new movie, BlacKkKlansman, though set in the 1970s, is very much about the times were living in, about racism in America and the shocking resiliency of hate. Its one of his best, and thats saying a lot, and it brings out his array of gifts  not just his political passion, but his absurd sense of humor and his almost uncanny social intuition.

This is the filmmaker who made Do the Right Thing two years before the Los Angeles riots, and who, in the wake of 9/11, realized that his somber New York drama, 25th Hour, could be made into an elegy for all that had been lost in the tragedy.

BlacKkKlansman, which is being released on the one-year anniversary of the violence in Charlottesville, Va., feels like a movie-length response to that event. In fact, the film was completed before that awfulness, though a coda, acknowledging Charlottesville and the killing of Heather Heyer, was appended.

BlacKkKlansman tells the bizarre fact-based story of Ron Stallworth, who became the first black cop in Colorado Springs. Treated with condescension by his colleagues and relegated to boring desk work, he takes it upon himself to contact the Ku Klux Klan, pretending to be white. What follows is a two-pronged investigation, with Ron (John David Washington) infiltrating the Klan by phone, and his white colleague Zimmerman (Adam Driver) doing it in person, by pretending to be the Ron that they know over the phone.

Though the real-life investigation took place in 1978, Lee and his trio of screenplay collaborators move the action to the early 1970s, a subtle transposition that makes a difference. On a superficial level, the early 70s styles are just more fun  big Afros, wide lapels, polyester bell-bottoms and bright colors. More importantly, the early 70s were turbulent, an era of radical politics. The assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. was a fresh memory, and the Black Panthers were still active.

This atmosphere of polarization  radical politics on one side and white nationalist terror on the other  forms the background for BlacKkKlansman and makes it all the more analogous to our current political moment. Then as now, political differences were not about two sides, sharing similar values, espousing different paths to the same ends, but rather about two sides with opposed visions of right and wrong, trying to move the country in completely different directions.

Lee, who never loses his sense of playfulness, pokes fun at the styles and gets comic mileage out of the absurdity of a black man putting on some nasal version of a white voice, spouting racist bile over the phone to David Duke. Yet such is Lees nimbleness as an artist that he can let such moments breathe, and yet take the plunge into near-terror, as when Zimmerman is confronted by a Klansman who angrily accuses him of being Jewish (which he is).

This tonal fluidity  this ability to be funny and terrifying by turns, incorporating both moods within a single, coherent and unifying tone  is something Lee has been able to do since Do the Right Thing. But its also a hallmark of recent black filmmaking, from Jordan Peeles Get Out to Blindspotting, starring and co-written by Daveed Diggs, to Boots Rileys Sorry to Bother You. The unifying element within and among these films is an assumption that theres something inherent in American life in 2018 thats both terrifying and absurd at precisely the same time.

To that end, the Klansmen here, in all their moods and incarnations  some adopting a tone of faux reasonableness, some foaming at the mouth with rage and others taking solace, in their lowly state, in some illusion of genetic destiny  are both exaggerated and utterly realistic. And Lee is accurate in emphasizing the modern Klans hatred of Jews, as well as blacks. Whats less certain is whether Klansmen in the 1970s ever really chanted America First, but the connection to the present is made, and its effective.

BlacKkKlansman Drama. Starring John David Washington and Adam Driver. Directed by Spike Lee. (R. 135 minutes.) See More Collapse

Had it ended where Lee originally expected it to end, BlacKkKlansman would have been a very good movie, his best in years. The extra kick into greatness comes with the Charlottesville coda, featuring unsettling footage weve never seen before. The movie brings it all home and brings it all together  the past, the present, and the unsettling and uncertain future.

Mick LaSalle is The San Francisco Chronicles film critic. Email: mlasalle@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @MickLaSalle
Editor's note: This story first appeared on The Wayward Home

60-year-old Barbara Snyder remembers where she was when a massive wildfire ripped through her Santa Rosa neighborhood, destroying 4,600 homes. The Tubbs Fire ranks as the most destructive in Californias history.

I was out of town at a wedding and my 26-year-old son was home. He was woken up with a phone call from his dad, telling him homes were on fire, said Barbara. Soon after that, I found my home had been destroyed.

Stunned and in a state of shock, Barbara moved in with a friend and tried to figure out what to do with her life.

I lived in that house for 10 years; it was a big, beautiful stucco French chateau, said Barbara. I lost all my memories, my computer, my photos, my artwork. Things Id been saving since my kids were babies. Everything is gone. Now Im starting all over. Its like you have amnesia; every day youre creating new memories.

HOW A VAN ENTERED BARBARAS LIFE

Barbara said shes lucky she had a good insurance policy on her house, which was paid off at the time of the fire. After the devastating wildfires, her insurance company offered her $7,000 per month for two years. But Barbara didnt want to stay in Santa Rosa, where the bones of burned down homes were a symbol of heartbreak and loss.

Id seen a certain van in a magazine a month or so prior to the fires, a Winnebago Sprinter van. So, I started calling dealers around the country, Barbara said. I could put my mountain bike in there, go hiking. I asked my insurance company if instead of paying me per month, theyd give me a lump sum to buy a van.

Eventually, she convinced them to give her $120,000, and she bought her new van. A van Barbara would soon call home.

"I went from 3,800-square feet to 90-square feet," said Barbara, who's an artist. "My art studio itself was 400-square feet. I loved that little space, and now I'm in a really little space."

Barbara had been planning on downsizing for awhile. She wanted to sell her house, get rid of stuff, maybe move into a condo. Fire thrust her into early retirement, as she lost her art studio in the blaze.

I turned 60 one month before the fire, and I knew something big was going to happen in my life, said Barbara. So, this is it. This is what Im doing.

GETTING USED TO VAN LIFE

Barbara started her life of newfound freedom by driving through the Southwest, visiting national parks along the way. Sometimes, a family member or friend would hop in her Winnebago for the ride. Eventually, Barbara drove back to California, to Santa Rosa, where stark reminders of devastation were everywhere.

I just sat in my old driveway and cried, she said. I lost my cat in the fire, and I had a lawn chair and I put his blanket on it, and Id just call him every day. It was too sad. I cant live there. So, she drove away again, heading to Montana, Idaho and Colorado. You have to join a traveling nomad group or else you dont really make any long-term friends, she said. I joined a group of mostly RVers called the Xscapers and we all meet up once per month in a different state. Its our community of nomads. Getting used to a smaller space and less stuff was also an adjustment for Barbara, but a welcome one. It was a really big change, said Barbara, But Ive liked not having as much stuff anymore. I have three pairs of shorts and two pairs of jeans. I wash them in the kitchen sink, then hang them on a clothes line. Sometimes, I wear a T-shirt five days in a row. Its an entirely new form of living for me. She said now, in the van, everything she owns has to be functional and serve more than one purpose. For example, she has a bowl that also doubles as a salad strainer. BARBARAS PLANS FOR THE FUTURE IN HER WINNEBAGO

Barbara plans on living in her Sprinter Winnebago as long as she feels like it. Come October 2018, it will be one year since the fires. She often thinks about others who lost their homes, people who chose to stay in Santa Rosa, and others who moved away, trying to rebuild.
Last week, the Trump administration unveiled one of its most consequential environmental rollbacks yet, a plan to let cars pollute more while stripping California of its right to set its own air-quality rules.

On Tuesday, California opened its counteroffensive, laying out in a report a scathing rebuttal that the states clean-air regulator, Mary Nichols, said would inform its legal and regulatory battle with Washington in the coming months and years.

The administrations proposal is contrary to the facts and the law, the California document says, before refuting point by point the Trump administrations arguments for weakening the nations long-term goals for making vehicles more fuel efficient and less polluting.

The clash between California and Washington threatens to throw the U.S. auto market into disarray. Because California has the authority under the Clean Air Act to set its own air pollution rules and because a dozen other states follow its lead, the dispute could effectively split the nations market into two, one side adhering to stringent emissions rules set in Sacramento and the other to weaker federal standards.

As a first step, California plans to change its rules to declare that the federal governments current, stricter auto-emission targets are the only ones that comply with state law  and not any future targets that are less strict.

That move collides with the administrations plan to freeze Obama-era rules, which would have required automakers by 2025 to roughly double the fuel economy of their new cars, pickup trucks and SUVs to about 36 mpg. Those rules, which are aimed at cutting tailpipe emissions of carbon dioxide, a major contributor to global warming, represented one of President Barack Obamas most significant efforts to fight climate change.

The Trump proposal would instead freeze the standards after 2021, when new cars must average around 30 mpg.

The federal governments proposal was made public last week by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation, along with their justifications for making the change, including the argument that forcing automakers to build cleaner cars would lead to more highway accidents and deaths. Experts have questioned that claim; in Tuesdays report, California disputed it as well.

Weakening the national standard could substantially slow progress toward the emission reductions needed to address the serious threat climate change poses to California, the country, and the world, waste billions of gallons of gasoline, and cost consumer money on fuel, the states report said.

Theyll just say anything to justify a weaker standard, Nichols, the states clean air regulator, said in a telephone interview Monday. We want our response to be as strong and cogent as possible.

Californias move would also unequivocally establish a separate emissions regime for the state and the 12 others that follow its standards, a coalition that covers more than 130 million residents and more than a third of the domestic auto market. Heavily Democratic California has emerged as a bulwark against the Trump administrations policies.

Carmakers have balked at the prospect, calling for the Trump administration and California to come to terms to avoid a messy legal battle.

That looks unlikely.

Were going to do everything we must do to continue to move forward rather than backslide, said Xavier Becerra, Californias attorney general.

We have fires raging, hundreds of thousands of acres burning. We saw devastating flooding and mudslides six, seven months ago, he said, invoking recent wildfires north of San Francisco that have killed seven people. We see the havoc that climate change brings to the environment and the last thing we need to do is to close our eyes to it.

At stake is what could be President Donald Trumps biggest climate-policy rollback, a move that could, by 2035, increase U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by an amount that exceeds what some countries, such as Austria or Bangladesh, release in a year.

The extent of the rollback, and the prospect of an all-out legal battle between the Trump administration and California, has made even some automakers uneasy. On Monday morning, the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, the industrys main lobbying group, posted to its Twitter account the headline and link to an opinion piece titled The Trump administrations fuel-efficiency proposal is unnecessary and harmful.

By Tuesday, the post had been erased. Gloria Bergquist, a spokeswoman for the Alliance, said the tweet had been a mistake though there were parts of the opinion piece, published by the Brookings Institution, that the group agreed with.

She added that automaker executives had urged Trump to come to an agreement with California, and that the alliance had raised the possible elements of a deal with both sides.

California also said that it has been, and remains, willing to consider well-founded and necessary changes to the program, including allowing automakers to exploit more generous loopholes to meet the standards. But the state has maintained that the headline fuel-economy targets, and their associated reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, are not negotiable.

The Trump administration has made government deregulation a centerpiece of its policy agenda and the auto-emissions proposal has won kudos from some staunch supporters.

For decades, multiple administrations in Washington, D.C., allowed liberal California to dictate environmental mandates to the rest of us, said Tim Huelskamp, president of the Heartland Institute, a libertarian think tank, in a statement last week. Revoking Obamas draconian fuel mileage restrictions, and Californias dubious exemption to federal standards, would make cars safer and more affordable. If adopted, this regulation would be another promise kept by President Donald Trump.

In justifying its freeze, the Trump administration, led by officials at the Department of Transportation, put forward several arguments that contradict previous findings by its own researchers. On Tuesday, California pushed back against those arguments.

Administration officials argue, for example, that fuel-saving technologies are expensive and will make cars costlier, making it tougher for people to afford them. In its rebuttal, California cited a 2016 technical review published by Department of Transportation researchers to say that current standards can be readily met at the same or lower cost than originally projected with advanced gasoline engines and transmissions.

The Trump administration also says that scrapping the Obama-era standards after 2021 would prevent road-accident fatalities (more than 12,700 deaths over the following decade) compared with keeping the standards in place. Among the reasons put forward: People who buy fuel-efficient cars will drive more, increasing the odds that they will be in an accident.

California disputed that, saying that any negative effects would be outweighed by the reduced impacts to health and mortality from tailpipe pollutants if stricter standards were upheld.

The state is refuting the counterintuitive and counterfactual arguments from the Trump administration that weaker emissions standards are good for public health and safety, said Michael Gerrard, an expert in environmental law at Columbia Law School.

California has long set its own air quality regulations, so when the federal Clean Air Act was passed decades ago, it enshrined the states right to continue making its own rules. In 2009, Obama began an effort to revise the federal standards o harmonize a mishmash of greenhouse-gas and fuel-economy standards set by federal agencies and California. For the first time, California allowed cars that complied with federal emissions rules to also be deemed as meeting California standards.

The state has threatened to sue to protect its authority to write its own air quality rules. And California is readying a separate set of official comments on the Trump administrations proposed rollback, which it will submit as part of a 60-day public comment process on those rules.

California is preparing for the worst, experts say, namely the Trump administrations freeze of federal rules, along with its plan to eliminate Californias right to set its own pollution rules, said Ann Carlson, professor of environmental law at the UCLA School of Law. The state would then likely go to court to defend that waiver.

With Tuesdays statement, California is making sure its is are dotted and its ts are crossed, Carlson said. They dont want any confusion on this question.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
A Sikh man who was recently ambushed, beaten up and told to return to his country said he believed that the very thing that may have prompted the assault also protected him from further harm.

My turban really saved me, Surjit Malhi of Turlock, California, said in an interview Monday.

Malhi, 50, was putting up political campaign signs near his home, about 60 miles east of San Jose, on July 31 when, he said, two men came up behind him and accosted him. They threw sand in his eyes so he could not see, he said, and struck his head and back with what appeared to be a stick and a belt.

You dont belong here, he said they told him.

His truck was also vandalized. A photo posted on Facebook shows the white pickup defaced with a similar message: Go back to your country.

Sheriff Adam Christianson of Stanislaus County said his office was aggressively investigating the case and looking for suspects.

Its a despicable hate crime, the sheriff said. There is no room for this in Stanislaus County or anywhere else in the United States of America.

Rep. Jeff Denham, R-Calif., released a statement Monday condemning the attack, which occurred in his district. Central California is home to a large Sikh community, and Malhi leads a group of Sikh volunteers for the congressmans campaign.

Inciting violence because of race, religion or political beliefs should never be tolerated, Denham said. This is the third incident in less than two weeks where a member of my team has been a target and it must come to an end.

Malhi came to the United States from India in 1992 and is now a permanent resident, he said. He is married with four teenage children, owns a small trucking business and is known locally as a community and political advocate.

He said he got involved in politics after witnessing corruption in his home country.

More for you Radio hosts suspended for slur against attorney general

We enjoy the freedom we never had in our own country, said Malhi, who said he supports Republicans. So this is why Im running around, so I can feel Ive done something for the country too, for America. Im not living free here.

He said he was placing campaign signs for Denham and the local district attorney when he was assaulted. While he still feels sore from the attack, he said a CT scan showed that his brain was not seriously injured. He said his turban acted like a helmet, but stronger.

Turbans represent a commitment to gender and racial equality, as well as religious tolerance, said Gurwin Singh Ahuja, co-founder of the National Sikh Campaign.

Sikhs wear their turbans to signal their readiness to protect people from injustice, he said. Its very ironic that these people chose to attack him for how he looks, when in fact, how he looks represents the highest ideals of our country.

Malhi said the attack had not lessened his patriotism. Whoever did this, they are not truly American, he said.

Over the weekend, he said, a group of people from his CrossFit gym visited him. They put flowers in his yard. They tidied up his American flag, which hangs outside his house. Afterward, they all had pizza for dinner.

That, he said, is what it means to be an American.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)



A man fatally shot while driving on the lower deck of the Bay Bridge early Monday morning has been identified by the San Francisco medical examiner's office as 31-year-old Darryl Stinnette, a resident of Mesquite, Texas.



California Highway Patrol officers responded shortly before 2:30 a.m. Monday to calls of shots fired and a crash on eastbound Interstate Highway 80 on the bridge just west of Treasure Island.



Stinnette and two other men were in a Mitsubishi SUV when a suspect driving a silver vehicle opened fire, according to the CHP.



Stinnette and his two passengers were all hit by the gunfire and the Mitsubishi then swerved to the left and crashed into a Honda. Stinnette died at the scene from his injuries while the passengers were taken to a hospital, CHP officials said.



A Porsche was also struck by the gunfire but CHP officials did not say if anyone inside it was hurt.



The shooting suspect fled in the silver vehicle and remains at large. No other details about the suspect were immediately released by the CHP.



Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the CHP's investigation tip line at (707) 917-4491.





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BART is reporting a 20-minute delay on its Warm Springs line in the Richmond direction due to police activity late Monday night, transit officials said.



The delay was first reported at 11:41 p.m. Monday.



According to BART police Lt. Tyrone Forte, a hold was placed on a train at the South Hayward station as police detained a person of interest that Fremont police were searching for in connection with a disturbance at Washington Hospital.



The train that was held has been released, Forte said. No further information was immediately available.





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EMERYVILLE (BCN)



The Emeryville City Council announced Monday that it has selected veteran administrator Christine Daniel to be the city's new city manager.



Daniel currently is an assistant city administrator in Oakland and served as Berkeley's city manager from November 2011 through August 2015.



Emeryville officials said Daniel is scheduled to begin her new job in early October and be paid $221,448 a year.



The City Council said the appointment of Daniel ends a three-month-long search during which 30 candidates applied for the position.



Emeryville Mayor John Bauters said he and the City Council are "excited" to have Daniel join city government, saying that she "brings the right combination of experience, skills and ideas to Emeryville."



Bauters said, "Christine has significant expertise in land use matters, economic development, housing affordability, public safety and fiscal management. Christine's experience with these issues that matter most to Emeryville residents and businesses stood out."



When Oakland leaders hired Daniel in 2015 they said she had lived in Oakland for 25 years as of that time.



In a statement in 2015, Daniel said, "I am honored to be joining the Oakland team. I look forward to working in my home city and devoting my skills and experience to a place that I love."



In Oakland, Daniel works under City Administrator Sabrina Landreth, who had been Emeryville's city manager but took the top job in Oakland on July 1, 2015.





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A 27-year-old Modesto man who admitted planning a potential Christmas Day terrorist attack on Pier 39 in San Francisco last year was sentenced in federal court in Fresno today to 15 years in prison.



Everitt Jameson, a former tow truck driver, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Lawrence O'Neill for his conviction on one count of attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State organization.



Jameson pleaded guilty to the charge in January. In his guilty plea, he admitted he believed he was attempting to aid the Islamic State when he suggested the attack and offered to help carrying it out.



In fact, Jameson began developing the never-completed plan through emails and text messages with a confidential FBI source in the fall of 2017 and then with an FBI agent posing as an Islamic State supporter.



The 15-year sentence was agreed to by prosecution and defense in his plea bargain.



The investigation began when the FBI noticed last fall that Jameson was posting "Like" and "Love" notices on Facebook posts that were pro-Isis and pro-terrorist.



The confidential source, posing as a woman sympathetic to the Islamic State group, began contacting him in October. Jameson told the source he had converted to Islam two years earlier and was trained as a sharpshooter in the Marines.



Later, an undercover agent posing as a "brother" in the cause took over and discussed the plan in a meeting in the agent's car on Dec. 16 and in additional messages over the next two days.



During those conversations, according to the plea agreement, Jameson suggested Pier 39 as the target location and said Christmas Day was the "perfect day" for the attack. He said he knew how to build a pipe bomb and could get the materials to do so.



Jameson told the undercover agent Pier 39 was a good target because it was crowded and explosives could be used to funnel people into an area so that he could inflict casualties by shooting people trying to escape, according to an FBI affidavit filed in the case.



Jameson was arrested at his Modesto home on Dec. 20 and charged in a criminal complaint with the count of attempting to give material support to a terrorist organization. The Islamic State has been designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department.



In early January, a grand jury indictment added a second count of distributing information about destructive devices. The second count was dropped as part of his plea bargain.



Assistant U.S. Attorney General John Demers, who heads the Justice Department's National Security Division, said in statement, "There is no place in the United States for terrorists and terrorist sympathizers who threaten innocent people, and the National Security Division will relentlessly seek to identify them and bring them to justice."



Jameson's defense lawyer, Assistant Federal Public Defender Charles Lee, said Jameson was despondent and in a "dark place" when he sent the messages last fall.



Lee said that during the sentencing today, he explained that Jameson grew up in a dysfunctional family and enlisted in the Marines at age 17 because "he had a dream of serving his country" and was in boot camp at age 18.



But after completing his training, Jameson suffered a bee sting, was hospitalized and was discharged from the military for having failed to disclose his asthma history.



Later, Lee said, Jameson had a difficult marriage and learned he lost parental rights to his two children shortly before he began communicating with the confidential informant.



Lee said Jameson accepted the plea deal and 15-year sentence because he risked a potential maximum 40-year sentence if he had gone to trial and been convicted on both counts in the indictment.





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OAKLAND (BCN)



A man who's serving a lengthy state prison term for his role in a fatal shooting in Oakland's Fruitvale district 10 years ago testified today that the shooting was carried out by two reputed gang members who are accused of a total of five counts of murder.



The state prison inmate, who was 16 at the time and is now 26, said he was with Dijon Holifield, 27, and Delonzo Logwood, 28, during the carjacking and fatal shooting of Richard Carter, 30, in the 2000 block of MacArthur Boulevard at about 1:15 a.m. on July 31, 2008, but wasn't armed with a gun at the time and didn't fire any shots himself.



Prosecutor Stacie Pettigrew asked that the inmate's name not be published.



In a court filing in the case in 2015, Pettigrew wrote that authorities moved the state prison inmate to a different prison after they recorded a phone call in which an inmate being held at the Santa Rita Jail in Dublin in an unrelated case told a man that he had learned that the state prison inmate was "snitching" on Holifield and Logwood.



Pettigrew wrote in 2015 that she believed that Holifield and his associates at Santa Rita wanted to unlawfully take documents in his murder case out of the jail to "distribute it to people who will take violent action against (the state prison inmate) with the hope of killing him or preventing further cooperation."



A judge approved an order to remove those documents from Holifield's cell.



The state prison inmate, who's being held in protective custody, said at the preliminary hearing for Holifield and Logwood today that he was "naive and young" when he joined them in a crime wave in Oakland in the summer of 2008 that included shootings and carjackings.



Referring to Carter, the inmate said, "I feel kind of bad for the victim."



He said, "All of this was over nothing."



Chronologically, Carter was the third of the five murder victims listed in the case against Holfield and Logwood, who authorities allege are members of a West Oakland gang called the P-Team.



The first victim in the case, 24-year-old Zaire Washington, was shot in the 8900 block of MacArthur Boulevard at about 6:45 p.m. on June 30, 2008, and was pronounced dead at a hospital a short time later.



Victim Eric Ford, 22, was shot at a gas station in the 3400 block of 35th Avenue at about 10:25 p.m. on July 1, 2008.



Keenan Hall, 30, the fourth victim, was shot in the 800 block of 45th Street at about 9:25 p.m. on Aug. 12, 2008, and was pronounced dead at the scene.



James Thomas, 18, the last victim was found fatally shot near a public housing project in the 900 block of Kirkham Way at about 2 a.m. on Aug. 13, 2008.



Holifield is charged with four counts of murder for the deaths of Hall, Thomas, Carter and Ford and Logwood is charged with three counts of murder for the deaths of Ford, Carter and Washington.



Both defendants are charged with the special circumstance of committing multiple murders and Holifield is also charged with the special circumstance of committing a murder during an attempted robbery and the special circumstance of committing a murder during a carjacking in connection with Carter's death.



Logwood is charged with an additional special circumstance for allegedly murdering Ford for financial gain.



Holifield and Logwood also both face allegations that they committed the crimes to promote their gang.



The state prison inmate said he pleaded no contest to voluntary manslaughter in 2010 in connection with Carter's death after Oakland police told him they had evidence that connected him to the crime, including DNA from his hat, which he said fell to the ground when he fled from the scene.



The inmate said he was sentenced to 31 years in state prison for his role in the crime but prosecutors have agreed to reduce his term to 19 years and 4 months in return for his testimony against Holifield and Logwood.



Defense lawyers for Holifield and Logwood, who unsuccessfully sought to prevent the inmate from testifying and allege that he has an incentive to lie, will cross-examine the inmate later this week.



The purpose of the preliminary hearing, which has lasted several weeks so far, is to determine if there's enough evidence to have Holifield and Logwood stand trial.



Holifield already is serving 13 years and 4 months in state prison for his conviction for a robbery and shooting that occurred on Aug. 17, 2008, only a few days after the fatal shooting of Thomas.





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A man fatally shot while driving on the lower deck of the Bay Bridge early Monday morning has been identified by the San Francisco medical examiner's office as 31-year-old Darryl Stinnette, a resident of Mesquite, Texas.



California Highway Patrol officers responded shortly before 2:30 a.m. Monday to calls of shots fired and a crash on eastbound Interstate Highway 80 on the bridge just west of Treasure Island.



Stinnette and two other men were in a Mitsubishi SUV when a suspect driving a silver vehicle opened fire, according to the CHP.



Stinnette and his two passengers were all hit by the gunfire and the Mitsubishi then swerved to the left and crashed into a Honda. Stinnette died at the scene from his injuries while the passengers were taken to a hospital, CHP officials said.



A Porsche was also struck by the gunfire but CHP officials did not say if anyone inside it was hurt.



The shooting suspect fled in the silver vehicle and remains at large. No other details about the suspect were immediately released by the CHP.







A Rohnert Park woman whose two daughters drowned when the vehicle she was driving crashed and overturned in the Petaluma River in 2016 was sentenced to five years of probation in Sonoma County Superior Court this morning.



Alejandra Hernandez-Ruiz, 27, also was sentenced to 640 days credit for time served in jail and under home confinement with an ankle bracelet since the crash on Aug. 31, 2016. She pleaded no contest in June to two counts of felony vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence.



Hernandez-Ruiz wept as the father of her daughters, Edwin Gonzalez, recalled in court how she dropped him off at work then drove the children to school that morning.



"I said goodbye and they said 'I love you' and that's the last time I saw them," Gonzalez said. "I have a hard time sleeping and can only imagine the responders pulling them from the vehicle in the water."



Hernandez was driving a 2006 Chevrolet Impala on Petaluma Boulevard North around 8 a.m. when the car drifted to the center median, according to the California Highway Patrol.



The Impala swerved to the right, crossed all traffic lanes went down an embankment and overturned in the river, CHP officials said.



The car sank and a witness found Hernandez-Ruiz standing on top of the Impala. Hernandez said her daughters were still in the car, but the witness was unable to get to Delilah Gonzalez, 9, and Sayra Gonzalez, 7.







An Oakley police officer and Contra Costa County sheriff's deputy were forced to shoot their firearms at a large dog that charged at them following a vehicle pursuit that ended in a traffic collision in Oakley on Monday, according to police.



Oakley police said a sheriff's deputy was investigating a theft case in Discovery Bay around noon Monday when the suspect fled an attempted traffic stop and eventually crashed at the intersection of Main Street and O'Hara Avenue.



According to police, a man and woman attempted to flee the scene but were soon captured. The dog in the vehicle became aggressive with the officer and sheriff's deputy, both of whom feared for their safety and fired their service weapons.



Police said the dog is not expected to survive. The man was transported to a hospital for treatment of injuries suffered in the collision and the woman was detained by sheriff's deputies. Their names have not been released.







A fire was reported at a home in Piedmont this morning, Oakland fire officials said.



The fire was reported to Oakland fire dispatchers at 10:43 a.m. on Hollywood Avenue, but firefighters learned it was burning a short distance away in the city of Piedmont on St. James Place.



A large amount of smoke was visible in the area of the Oakland hills from the blaze.



Piedmont fire officials were not immediately available to provide more details about the fire.







The Alameda County coroner's bureau has identified a man found in the water near Albany last week as 29-year-old Michael Phelan from Stockton.



Phelan was found along the shoreline off of Albany Beach, near the Albany Bulb, last Wednesday.



Further details about his death were not immediately available.



Albany police referred questions about the case to the East Bay Regional Park District. District officials did not immediately respond to a request for additional information.







The Emeryville City Council announced Monday that it has selected veteran administrator Christine Daniel to be the city's new city manager.



Daniel currently is an assistant city administrator in Oakland and served as Berkeley's city manager from November 2011 through August 2015.



Emeryville officials said Daniel is scheduled to begin her new job in early October and be paid $221,448 a year.



The City Council said the appointment of Daniel ends a three-month-long search during which 30 candidates applied for the position.



Emeryville Mayor John Bauters said he and the City Council are "excited" to have Daniel join city government, saying that she "brings the right combination of experience, skills and ideas to Emeryville."







A woman was arrested after using pepper spray as she robbed a store of bottles of alcohol in San Francisco's Excelsior District on Monday morning, police said.



The robbery was reported at about 9:30 a.m. in the area of Mission Street and Russia Avenue.



The 57-year-old woman entered the store and used the pepper spray as she stole a bottle of wine and a bottle of beer, according to police.



No one was injured as a result of the pepper spray, and officers responded and arrested the woman. Her name was not immediately released.







A longtime city employee was appointed today as the new executive director of the San Francisco Department of Emergency Management, Mayor London Breed announced.



Mary Ellen Carroll, who has served for the past seven years as the director of emergency planning and security for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, will head the Department of Emergency Management, which coordinates emergency preparedness and responses to disasters and large planned events.



Carroll is taking over for outgoing executive director Anne Kronenberg, who is retiring after more than 40 years in city government.



Carroll joined the city's Department of Public Health in 2005 and also spent years in its Controller's Office. At the SFPUC, she oversaw the Regional Water System, spanning from the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in Yosemite National Park to distribution locations around the Bay Area, according to the mayor's office.





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In the wake of three recent homicides and other violent crimes on the BART system, BART general manager Grace Crunican has announced that she's asking the transit district's board to approve a $28 million comprehensive safety and security plan.



Monday, Crunican said the series of proposals that the board will consider at its meeting Thursday are aimed at boosting the visible presence of police and other transit agency employees in the system, enhancing BART's network of surveillance cameras and increasing public safety outreach.



In the most highly publicized homicide, Nia Wilson, 18, was fatally stabbed at the MacArthur station in Oakland at 9:36 p.m. on July 22. John Lee Cowell, a 27-year-old transient, was arrested the next evening and has been charged with murder and other offenses.



Gerald Bisbee, 51, of Pittsburg, died on July 20 after being assaulted at the Pleasant Hill station on July 18 and Don Stevens, a 47-year-old transient, died after being attacked on the platform of the Bay Fair BART station in San Leandro at about 1:20 a.m. on July 21.



In addition, two people were stabbed by an attacker at the MacArthur station on Friday night.







A 27-year-old Modesto man who admitted planning a potential Christmas Day terrorist attack on Pier 39 in San Francisco last year has been sentenced in federal court in Fresno to 15 years in prison.



Everitt Jameson, a former tow truck driver, was sentenced Monday by U.S. District Judge Lawrence O'Neill for his conviction on one count of attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State organization.



Jameson pleaded guilty to the charge in January. In his guilty plea, he admitted he believed he was attempting to aid the Islamic State when he suggested the attack and offered to help carrying it out.



In fact, Jameson began developing the never-completed plan through emails and text messages with a confidential FBI source in the fall of 2017 and then with an FBI agent posing as an Islamic State supporter.



The 15-year sentence was agreed to by prosecution and defense in his plea bargain.







The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is extending an air quality advisory through this Thursday because of possible smoke impacts in the region from wildfires in Mendocino County and elsewhere around the state.



According to the air district, wind is expected to blow smoke into the North Bay and parts of the inland East Bay this morning but the smoke is expected to stay aloft and not impact air quality at the ground level.



However, by this afternoon and into Wednesday, the smoke could drop to lower levels and be more widespread, and Spare the Air alerts could be called mid-week if the air quality falls below federal standards, district officials said.



Bay Area residents are advised to avoid exposure by the smoke by staying inside with windows and doors closed, and to set air conditioning units and car vent systems to re-circulate to stop outside air from coming inside.







Three of the five people who died in a plane crash in Southern California on Sunday afternoon worked in the same real estate office in Danville, according to the San Francisco-based company.



The Orange County coroner has identified the victims as Scott Shepherd, 53, and Lara Shepherd, 42, both of Diablo, Floria Hakimi, 62, of Danville, Navid Hakimi, 32, of Los Angeles, and Nasim Ghanadan, 29, of Alamo.



Floria Hakimi, Lara Shepherd and Nasim Ghanadan were all realtors at the Danville office of Pacific Union International. Scott Shepherd was Lara's husband and the pilot of the plane, while Navid Hakimi was Floria's son.



"Our entire Pacific Union family is mourning the loss of our colleagues, family and friends," Pacific Union chief executive officer Mark McLaughlin said in a statement. "Life is precious and we are focused on comforting the loved ones affected by this devastating event."



According to the coroner, the plane crashed around 12:30 p.m. in the parking lot of a Staples store in Santa Ana.







A Santa Rosa man allegedly ingested methamphetamine before he threw what he described as a M-80 type of firework under a Sonoma County sheriff's deputy's vacant patrol car in Guerneville, sheriff's officials said.



Tristan Proto, 22, and a 22-year-old female friend from Forestville were ingesting the drug Friday when they got into an argument while visiting downtown Guerneville, sheriff's Sgt. Spencer Crum said.



The two separated briefly and Proto allegedly threw the explosive under the patrol car because he doesn't like the sheriff's office, Crum said.



The deputy, who was in the Safeway store on Main Street when the M-80 exploded in the parking lot, ran outside where he saw a man being chased. The person chasing and tackling Proto was an off-duty Napa County sheriff's deputy, according to Crum.



Proto was detained and his home and vehicle were searched, but no other explosives were found, Crum said.







San Francisco Unified School District Board of Education president Hydra Mendoza is stepping down from her post at the end of September to take a position in New York City, district officials said on Monday.



Mendoza, the first and only Filipino elected to office in San Francisco, has been elected to the Board of Education in 2006, 2010 and 2014. She will be the New York City Department of Education's deputy chancellor for community empowerment, partnerships and communications.



Mendoza has also served as senior advisor for education to then-Mayor Gavin Newsom from 2005 to 2011, and was a preschool teacher and acting director of a local preschool, district officials said.













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PIEDMONT (BCN)



A firefighter and a resident were injured in a fire at a house in Piedmont this morning, the city's fire chief said.



The fire was reported at 10:43 a.m. to Oakland fire dispatchers, but crews found that it was burning at a home on St. James Place in Piedmont, just over the city's border with Oakland.



Fire Chief Warren (Bud) McLaren said firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and fire coming from the garage and front of the home.



The resident suffered burn injuries from trying to put out the flames before fire crews arrived, while the firefighter suffered a shoulder injury while battling the blaze, McLaren said.



Both were taken to a hospital but their injuries were considered minor and they have both since been released, he said.



Firefighters eventually extinguished the blaze but remained at the house late this afternoon to make sure it does not spark back up, the chief said.



The fire, which produced a large amount of smoke that could be seen from miles away in Oakland, destroyed a car in the home's garage and caused at least $200,000 in damage to the property, McLaren said.



Crews were able to prevent it from spreading to nearby homes, although neighboring hedges burned in the blaze, he said.



The cause of the fire remains under investigation but crews believe it started in the home's garage, according to McLaren.





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Police and Contra Costa County sheriff's deputies fatally shot a dog while detaining a mail-theft suspect who had led them on a pursuit that started in the unincorporated area of Byron on Monday morning.



Just before 11 a.m., deputies took a report about suspects stealing mail from a U.S. Postal Service vehicle in Byron.



Deputies found the suspect vehicle during their investigation, and it fled down Byron Highway to Main Street in Oakley. They stopped following the vehicle due to concerns about public safety, but Oakley police later found the vehicle after it crashed into a pole at Main Street and O'Hara Avenue.



They detained the driver, 38-year-old Kenneth Grosenbach of San Francisco, at the scene of the crash but a female passenger fled on foot with a dog on a leash.

When police caught up and attempted to detain her, she allegedly released the dog and it attacked the officer.



The officer fired a gun at the dog, but it tried to bite again. A sheriff's deputy who was also at the scene then shot at the dog, and it was found dead nearby.



The female suspect was detained and identified as 36-year-old Linnell Bonner, also from San Francisco.



Grosenbach was arrested on suspicion of possession of a stolen vehicle, felony evasion, identity theft and conspiracy. He's in custody on $140,000 bail, according to deputies.



Bonner was arrested on suspicion of identity theft, possession of stolen property, obstructing an officer and violating the terms of her probation. She's being held without bail.




SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)



A music promoter who was fatally shot while driving on the lower deck of the Bay Bridge early Monday morning has been identified by the San Francisco medical examiner's office as 31-year-old Darryl Stinnette, a resident of Mesquite, Texas.



"He was a great guy, a really genuinely good guy and very passionate about music and helping upcoming artists succeed," Stinnette's business partner Michael Bartolomeo said today. "It's a big loss to the rap community."



Stinnette, who was also known as Lil Pooh, worked in artist management with Bartolomeo at a rap music promotion company called Dirty Glove Bastard.



"He was an aspiring rapper before he decided to switch over and do more behind the scenes stuff in the music business," Bartolomeo said.



Stinnette has family in Texas, including a baby born in April, and loved ones are planning a candlelight vigil in the Dallas area, according to Bartolomeo. An online fundraiser has been set up for his family at https://www.gofundme.com/rip-poohDGB.



California Highway Patrol officers responded shortly before 2:30 a.m. Monday to calls of shots fired and a crash on eastbound Interstate Highway 80 on the bridge just west of Treasure Island.



Stinnette and two other men were in a Mitsubishi SUV when a suspect driving a silver vehicle opened fire, according to the CHP.



Stinnette and his two passengers were all hit by the gunfire and the Mitsubishi then swerved to the left and crashed into a Honda. Stinnette died at the scene from his injuries while the passengers were taken to a hospital, CHP officials said.



A Porsche was also struck by the gunfire but CHP officials did not say if anyone inside it was hurt.



The shooting suspect fled in the silver vehicle and remains at large. No other details about the suspect were immediately released by the CHP.



The Bay Bridge shooting may have been preceded by another incident in the city's South of Market neighborhood.



A shooting was reported in the first block of Minna Street around 1 a.m. A suspect drove away from the scene, but later crashed while trying to get on the Bay Bridge, according to police.



He was arrested on suspicion of discharging a firearm within city limits. Police could not immediately confirm that the two shootings were linked.



Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the CHP's investigation tip line at (707) 917-4491.





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The Sonoma County District Attorney's Office today charged a woman with murder, DUI involving a drug, and vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated but without gross negligence in connection with a wrong-way driving crash that killed a Windsor man early Friday morning on U.S. Highway 101.



Sherry Risch, a 53-year-old Sonoma County resident, was arraigned but delayed entering a plea this afternoon. She will have a mental competence exam by a psychologist and will return to court Aug. 15 for a hearing on the results.



More than two dozen people wearing photos of the crash victim, Daniel Adams, 56, filled the hallway outside of the courtroom.



Risch was driving a 2005 Kia Rio south on northbound Highway 101 around 12:10 a.m. Friday when she collided with the left side of a northbound 2001 Honda Odyssey van north of Airport Boulevard, according to the California Highway Patrol.



Both vehicles spun out of control and the Honda came to rest in the center divider and far left lane.



Risch's Kia came to rest in the two left lanes, and Adams' 2016 BMW motorcycle struck the Kia in the No. 2 lane. Adams was ejected into the No. 2 lane and was later pronounced dead, according to the CHP.



Risch appeared intoxicated and suffered moderate injuries. She was taken to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital before she was booked into Sonoma County Jail around 8:30 a.m. She is being held under no bail.



The 44-year-old driver of the Honda suffered moderate injuries, and a passenger in the Honda suffered major injuries that required immediate surgery. Both are from San Francisco, and they were taken to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, CHP officials said. Deputy District Attorney Laura Passaglia said this afternoon they were still alive.



The CHP began receiving calls at 12:08 a.m. about a wrong-way driver on the highway at Healdsburg Avenue, and the crash closed the highway until around 4:40 a.m.



Passaglia said the complaint against Risch contains enhancements alleging great bodily injury or death, multiple victims and prior DUI convictions.



Sonoma County Superior Court records list 28 cases and 11 warrants against Risch since Oct. 25, 1995. The complaint filed today mentions prior convictions for DUI that occurred on March 4, 1999 and on Sept. 14, 2011.



The court record also contains numerous violations and reinstatements of probation, and suspensions and reinstatements of criminal proceedings after mental competence exams.



One of the many people who wore photos of Adams at the arraignment today said funeral services are scheduled for Aug. 25.



"This is just a small amount of people here compared to who will be at the service. It shows how much Danny meant to people," she said.





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Page Content

Vermont is the first state to outlaw "no rehire" clauses in agreements which bar workers who settle discrimination and harassment cases from working for that employer again.

The provision is part of a law addressing sexual harassment protections for employees that went into effect last month. The law, inspired by the #MeToo movement according to its sponsor:



Improves and streamlines sexual harassment reporting, and creates a hotline and web portal for the reporting of sexual harassment complaints to the Vermont Human Rights Commission or the Attorney General's Office.



Bans nondisclosure agreements that preemptively prohibit employees from reporting sexual harassment and prohibits the use of no rehire clauses in settlement agreements that critics say punish the victim.



No rehire agreements typically extend to a company's parent organization and affiliates as well.

"It's basically saying, 'See you later, you can never work for me or any of my affiliates again,' " said state Rep. Sarah Copeland-Hanzas, the chief author of the bill. "So, if you're in a specialty field in a small state, that might mean you can never work again."

[SHRM members-only online discussion platform: SHRM Connect]

Including no rehire clauses in separation agreements is fairly common across the country, said Susan Gross Sholinsky, an attorney in the New York City office of Epstein Becker Green. She said the clause is meant to protect the company from being sued again in the future by a former employee who claims retaliation for not being rehired. Former employees could potentially reapply for a job and allege retaliation for prior legal claims if they are not rehired, and a no rehire provision is not included in the settlement agreement.

When signing an agreement with a no rehire clause, the employee typically agrees that employment has ended and promises not to seek reemployment with the company. In some cases, the employee agrees that their employment may be terminated immediately without any legal recourse if they are rehired by the company or any related entity.

In 2016, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued guidelines warning companies against practices that could be seen as retaliating against employees who file discrimination or harassment claims, which could include no rehire clauses.

"There are EEOC interpretations, and some employment lawyers have started advising their employer clients that use of no rehire clauses could be considered retaliatory against plaintiffs," said Cary Brown, executive director of the Vermont Women's Commission, a nonpartisan state agency advancing rights and opportunities for women and girls.

"We're following that line of thinking and looking at this [law] as way to ensure fairness, particularly in a small state like ours," Brown said. "The repercussions could be significant to somebody signing one of these agreements and then finding their local employment options severely curtailed. There are only so many jobs people can choose from, and only so many employers available. A lot of our employers are retail and restaurant chains and franchises."

For example, one famed Vermont company, ice cream maker Ben & Jerry's, is owned by Unilever, a U.K.-Dutch consumer goods conglomerate with over 400 brands, she said.

Brown said her agency is working on an education and outreach project scheduled for next year that will provide compliance training resources for Vermont employers.






STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A 22-year-old FDNY EMT who reportedly was punished for a previous incident involving a noose being hung in an ambulance now stands accused of driving drunk in West Brighton.

John Thornton, 22, was arrested while off duty on Sunday at about 4:18 a.m. at Oakland and Cary avenues, according to a statement from the NYPD and the criminal complaint.

"EMT John Thornton will be suspended without pay and faces additional discipline, up to and including termination," said a statement by the FDNY.

Someone reported that the vehicle he was driving was swerving in the roadway and he was pulled over, according to a source with knowledge of the investigation.

"I'm sorry I had too much," Thornton allegedly told police after officers found him driving a gray 2008 Honda Ridgeline, according to the criminal complaint.

Thornton had a strong odor of alcohol on his breath, bloodshot and watery eyes, a flushed face and was unsteady on his feet, according to the criminal complaint.

Thornton refused to take a breathalyzer test, according to the complaint.

He is charged with driving while intoxicated and driving while ability impaired.

He has been released on his own recognizance and is due back in Criminal Court on Aug. 8, according to public records.

Thornton was the subject of media reports after a threatening letter allegedly was placed in the locker of a female EMT at Station 22 in Sea View.

The woman was called a "n-----" in the missive discovered last Aug. 29 and reported to police the next day.

The African-American woman was a union representative whom Thornton allegedly previously talked to after a noose was hung in an ambulance for a male employee to find, the Daily News reported at the time.

Media reports indicated that Thornton told police that the noose was a joking reference to the man's recent break-up.

The FDNY hit Thornton with a 10-day suspension for the noose and extended Thornton's probationary period as a new EMT, the News reported.

Thornton is the son of a retired FDNY battalion chief, who told the Advance at the time that his son had nothing to do with the racist letter.

The suspect's attorney did not respond immediately to a request for a comment.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Jurors did not believe Leonard Evans' story that he stabbed German (Ricco) Pagan in self-defense during a life-and-death struggle on the waterfront promenade near the St. George Ferry Terminal two years ago.

But they also didn't believe Evans, an ex-convict, had murder in his heart when he inflicted the fatal blow early on the morning of Aug. 4, 2016.

Based on those findings, the panel on Tuesday convicted Evans of first-degree manslaughter in Pagan's death but acquitted him of the more serious charge of second-degree murder.

"I think we came to a conclusion that his intention was not to kill," a juror said outside state Supreme Court, St. George. "We all had the belief he did it; the question was, 'What was his intention?'"

Under state law, a person is guilty of second-degree murder when he causes another person's death while intending to do so.

A person is guilty of first-degree manslaughter when he causes another person's death while intending to seriously injure the victim.

Evans, 51, faces up to 25 years in prison when sentenced on Aug. 23.

The defendant, who turned his head slightly to the side in apparent relief when the not-guilty murder verdict was announced, would have faced up to 25 years to life behind bars if convicted of that charge.

He was also convicted of third-degree criminal weapon possession.

In a statement, District Attorney Michael E. McMahon said Evans committed a "senseless act of violence against an innocent man, whose life was tragically ended."

"Today's guilty verdict holds this defendant accountable for his actions, as the prosecutors in my office remain committed to ensuring justice for all victims of crime on Staten Island," said McMahon. "I would like thank the jury for their service and also commend Assistant District Attorneys Mark Palladino and Brooke Baranoski for their tireless efforts in successfully prosecuting this case."

Defense lawyer Mark J. Fonte viewed the verdict differently.

"Being found not guilty of murder is always a victory," Fonte said outside court Tuesday. "The jury agreed with me that there was never 'an intent to kill.'"

MURDER VS. MANSLAUGHTER

The juror said the distinction in intent between murder and manslaughter was crucial to the jury's decision.

During the trial, Pedro Burnias, a prosecution eyewitness, testified Evans attacked Pagan, 30.

He said he and Evans saw Pagan after walking down to the waterfront promenade between Richmond County Bank Ballpark at St. George, and the ferry terminal shortly after midnight on Aug. 3 into Aug. 4, 2016.

Pagan was lying down on a bench, said Burnias.

Evans approached Pagan and hit him in the shoulder, the witness testified. Pagan got up, the two men exchanged words, and Evans hit Pagan in the chest, said Burnias.

Pagan then lay back down on the bench, he said.

Prosecutors contend the two blows Burnias saw Evans land were actually knife thrusts, with the second one piercing the heart ventricle and proving fatal.

Burnias testified he did not see a knife in either man's hand or either man get stabbed.

However, he said Evans had shown him a pocket knife before they walked down to the promenade. Evans, the witness said, told him he "wanted to get back at" Pagan who had punched him twice in the face in front of his girlfriend on Aug. 3.

STABBED IN ARM

With that sequence of events in mind, the juror, who declined to give his name, questioned why Evans would have first stabbed the prone Pagan in the arm if murder was his goal.

"What was going through his head at that moment was probably not an intent to kill," said the man, who declined to give his name. "More than likely (it was) the idea of to harm him."

The juror said panelists "had some disagreement" as to what Evans and Pagan said to each other during their verbal exchange and what the defendant was thinking before inflicting the fatal blow.

"But whatever it was, his conscious intention was not to kill," said the juror.

Still, the panel wasn't convinced Evans had acted in self-defense, as he testified, contrary to Burnias.

"We did not think enough of his testimony was credible," the juror said. "We did not accept his explanation."

Evans, who took the stand last week, testified Pagan was the aggressor.

As they began struggling, the defendant testified he put a "wrestling move" on Pagan, got behind him, then picked up and body-slammed Pagan, who was 60 pounds heavier and seven inches taller, to the bench.

Evans said Pagan stabbed him with a knife in the arm. The defendant said he had no weapon.

The two men continuing grappling, with Pagan facing downward on the bench and Evans on top of him, the defendant said.

Evans said he managed to make Pagan stab himself in the shoulder when the victim tried to stab him.

At one point, he gained control of the knife, and was in the process of getting off Pagan, when the victim swung his arm. Evans said he was struck in the groin and "buckled," causing him to stab Pagan in the chest.

In his summation on Monday, Assistant District Attorney Mark Palladino, who prosecuted the case along with Assistant District Attorney Brooke Baranoski, told jurors Evans' story made no sense.

Not only was there very little blood on the bench - Palladino maintained there would have been a lot of blood had the struggle occurred in the manner that Evans testified - but the locations of the victim's wounds, particularly in the right arm and right side, didn't jibe with the defendant's story.

But Fonte, the defense lawyer, maintained Evans was battling for his life. So, it wasn't surprising, he contended, Evans may not have recalled every detail of the fight exactly as it occurred.

And while Evans admitted to being upset with Pagan over the Aug. 3 incident, the defendant testified he wasn't going to kill a man over it, Fonte stressed to jurors.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The Republican candidate for governor -- Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro -- will host a town hall forum on Staten Island on Wednesday.

The free event is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Third County Courthouse in Historic Richmond Town.

Molinaro, who is conducting town hall events around New York state, will open up the discussion, and will then take questions from those in attendance.

Tickets are available via Facebook, and walk-ins are also welcome.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- One key question was at the heart of the defense's and prosecutors' summations Monday at Leonard Evans' murder trial: Who had more reason to lie and who had more reason to tell the truth?

Should jurors believe Evans, who testified he had stabbed the victim German (Ricco) Pagan in self-defense during a life-and-death struggle on the waterfront promenade near the Staten Island Ferry Terminal during the early morning hours of Aug. 4, 2016?

Or should they give more credence to prosecutors' main witness, Pedro Burnias, a friend and drinking buddy of Evans, who told jurors the defendant, who was carrying a knife, had attacked Pagan in retaliation over a prior confrontation?

"That's his motive: I want revenge. He got what he deserved," said Assistant District Attorney Mark Palladino, his voice rising for emphasis, as he pointed at Evans, seated at the defense table. "Not one thing (Evans) said besides it happened at the Ferry (Terminal) is corroborated. His story is preposterous."

Palladino said Evans' testimony that the much larger Pagan was the aggressor, and his account of how the victim's wounds were inflicted didn't jibe with the physical evidence, let alone Burnias' completely different recollection of the events that night.

"You can't argue against physical, forensic, medical evidence. That's indisputable," said Palladino, who is prosecuting the case along with Assistant District Attorney Brooke Baranoski.

Defense lawyer Mark J. Fonte assailed Burnias' credibility, contending the witness had "tailored his story to fit the evidence."

Burnias, who is homeless and has a criminal history dating back about 25 years, has received food, shelter and clothing in exchange for his cooperation, he told jurors.

"The real evidence is do we believe Pedro?" Fonte said. "... Do you think this person's not going to keep the gravy train coming? ...Who's playing who like a violin here? Is Pedro playing the police like a violin? Are the police playing Pedro like a violin?"

The lawyer also dismissed prosecutors' revenge motive as "ridiculous."

He said Evans, 51, admitted he was upset over an incident on Aug. 3 in which Pagan allegedly had pushed the defendant's girlfriend as well as a subsequent confrontation that afternoon, but plainly said he wasn't going to kill a man over it.

"If anything has the ring of truth, it's that there was no intent to kill," said Fonte.

Evans is charged with second-degree murder, first-degree assault and two counts of criminal weapon possession.

He faces up to 25 years to life in prison if convicted of the murder charge.

Jurors began deliberations late Monday afternoon after state Supreme Court Justice Alexander Jeong charged them on the law. They will resume Tuesday morning.

WITNESS TESTIMONY

In recounting the deadly episode, Burnias testified last week he was preparing to go to sleep outside the Richmond County Bank Ballpark at St. George late on the evening of Aug. 3, 2016, when Evans came by.

Burnias testified they began drinking beer, and Evans told him of a fight he had earlier that day with Pagan. Evans, the witness said, told him Pagan had punched him twice in the face in the park alongside Borough Hall on Richmond Terrace.

Burnias said the defendant showed him a pocket knife and said he "wanted to get back at" Pagan.

They walked down toward the waterfront promenade, between the ballpark and the St. George Ferry Terminal, and Evans saw Pagan lying down on a bench, said Burnias.

Evans approached Pagan and hit him in the shoulder. Pagan got up, and Evans hit punched him in the chest, said Burnias.

Pagan then lay back down on the bench, he said.

Prosecutors contend the two blows Burnias saw Evans land were actually knife thrusts.

Burnias testified he did not see a knife in either man's hand or either man get stabbed.

However, Evans' left forearm was cut, and he walked the defendant to his nearby apartment on Slosson Terrace.

Burnias said Evans told him he had gotten rid of the knife.

Contrary to Burnias, Evans testified Pagan had swung twice at him and missed during the first confrontation near Borough Hall.

As for the second one on the waterfront promenade, he said Pagan had attacked him from behind, and they began struggling.

Evans said he put a "wrestling move" on Pagan, got behind him, picked him up and body-slammed Pagan, who was 60 pounds heavier and seven inches taller, to the bench.

Evans said Pagan stabbed him with a knife in the arm.

The two men struggled with Pagan facing downward toward the bench and Evans on top of him, the defendant said.

Evans said he managed to make Pagan stab himself in the shoulder when the victim tried to stab him as they struggled on the bench.

At one point, he gained control of the knife, and was in the process of getting off Pagan, when the victim swung his arm. Evans said he was struck in the groin and "buckled," causing him to stab Pagan.

Palladino, the prosecutor, told jurors Evans' story made no sense.

There was very little blood on the bench, when there should have been a lot, if the victim was facing downward when he was stabbed in the chest, as Evans testified.

And Evans' account of how the victim was stabbed didn't match the medical examiner's findings.

DOCTOR TESTIMONY

Dr. Floriana Persechino testified that Pagan was stabbed twice. The first blow went through the right arm and into the right side of the chest.

The second one, which was fatal, went through the upper center part of the chest, penetrating soft tissue and cartilage before striking a heart ventricle, she said.

That second blow, which was at least 4 inches deep, had to be inflicted with a significant amount of force, Palladino told jurors.

Fonte, the defense lawyer, maintained it wasn't surprising Evans may not have recalled every detail of the fight exactly as it occurred.

"When you're fighting for your life, you're not concerned with whose hand goes where," said Fonte. "That's why he couldn't recall specifics. It's fast and furious. It's fluid. If you don't get the knife first, you're dead."
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Police responded to an armed robbery on Netherland Avenue in Mariners Harbor Monday evening.

At approximately 6:30 p.m., a black male in his 20s approached an individual looking to sell his iPhone, according to an NYPD spokesman.

The male then presented a firearm and stole the iPhone, according to the spokesman.

There were no injuries as a result of the robbery, the spokesman said.

The investigation is ongoing, according to police.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Wagner College has been named one of America's top colleges in the Princeton Review's 2018 "Best 384 Colleges" guide.

The Wagner College Theatre program was ranked Number 5 in the nation, ahead of Muhlenberg, Bennington, Sarah Lawrence and Bard colleges, as well as Columbia, Drew and Northwestern universities.

"The quality of our programs, the dedication of our faculty, and our focus on combining theory and practice make Wagner, year after year, one of America's best colleges," said Jeffrey Kraus, provost and vice president for academic affairs at Wagner College.

Only about 15 percent of America's 2,500 four-year colleges are profiled in the "Best 384 Colleges" book, which is the Princeton Review's flagship college guide.

It includes detailed profiles of the colleges with rating scores for all schools in eight categories, based on the Princeton Review's surveys of students attending the colleges.

Wagner College students describe the Grymes Hill school as a "tight-knit and fun, yet academically challenging" liberal arts school.

The school is "in the perfect location with a surplus of unique resources" and is composed of "an excellent and vibrant community that supports its students every step of the way."

Students also said Wagner "lets you experience all different types of subjects by following the concept: learning by doing."

Wagner's theater department has been ranked among the top 5 collegiate theater programs in the United States by the Princeton Review for more than a decade.

"The ranking reflects the ownership our students -- not just theater students, but all students at Wagner College -- feel over the department and the pride they take in our hard work," said Felicia Ruff, chairwoman of the Wagner College Theatre department.

Wagner College Theatre graduate Alex Boniello secured the role of Connor Murphy on Broadway's Tony Award-winning musical "Dear Evan Hansen." He is joined by former Wagner Theatre majors Danielle Buccino, an assistant stage manager, and Olivia Puckett, who plays multiple roles, is an understudy and dance captain.

The department, created in 1968, has a long list of distinguished alumni, from Tony Award winner Randy Graff '76 to "Jersey Boys" film star Renee Marino '04.

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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A third man remains at large after being named by police in a request for tips regarding burglaries on the North Shore of Staten Island.

Cops busted two men on Monday after posting their photos and other information on the 120th Precinct Twitter feed in an attempt to gain information from the public.

The search continues for Jonathan Moncada who is sought for questioning in connection with a burglary on July 21 inside of 16 Avon Place in Tompkinsville, according to a spokesman for the NYPD's Deputy Commissioner of Public Information and posts on the 120th Precinct Twitter feed.

The NYPD touted the concept of "cops and community working together" in a post on the separate arrests of Leonardo Perez and David Walton for various unrelated burglaries.

"We'd like to thank our hard working cops and watchful community for the swift apprehension of these two burglary suspects," said a post on the 120 Precinct Twitter feed that included photos of Perez and Walton.

Perez, 37, who is homeless, was taken into custody at about 10:15 a.m. on Monday at the 120th Precinct stationhouse in St. George, according to an NYPD spokeswoman.

Perez has been charged by police with burglary. He was sought for questioning in connection with an incident on July 29 inside of 15 Swan St., Tompkinsville, according to a social media post on the 120th Precinct Twitter feed.

Walton, of the 200 block of Trantor Place in Elm Park, faces charges in connection with four incidents -- in and around West Brighton -- dating back to May, according to an NYPD spokesman.

In addition to being sought in connection with the burglaries, Walton also had a parole warrant for his arrest, the spokesman said.

Anyone with information about Moncada is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.
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National Australia Bank has been accused of delaying telling the corporate regulator the full extent of what turned out to be a $120 million customer refund, and "positioning" the charging of fees for no service as a problem with its communication to members.

As the banking royal commission delves into superannuation, Tuesday's hearing dug further into NAB's response after it became aware of charging members millions in fees it was not entitled to.

It emerged that in 2016, as the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) was collating a report on the fees-for-no-service being charged by banks, NAB had reassessed its refunds of a certain type of fee so the full figure would not be included in the ASIC report.

The commission hearing was also told that NAB's super fund trustee, NULIS, sought to "position" the incorrect charging of fees as an issue caused by unclear communication with members, rather than fees being charged for services that were not provided.
An offshoot of the busy Singapore-based Keppel conglomerate will expand its data footprint in Australia, adding a new shell and core data facility on vacant land in Sydneys Macquarie Business Park to its portfolio.

Singapore-listed property fund Keppel DC REIT, partially owned by the giant conglomerate Keppel Corporation, has tied up a 20-year triple-net master lease with Macquarie Telecom, which will occupy and develop the facility.

Macquarie Telecom will more than double its data centre capacity.

The expansion will enable Macquarie Telecom, which is listed on the Australian Stock Exchange, to more than double its data centre capacity from 10 to 26 megawatts in the first phase of development, before adding another 17 megawatts in subsequent phases.

Data centre capacity is rated in megawatts, with one megawatt equivalent to about 2000 servers.
More evidence has emerged of the devastating drought smashing farms in eastern Australia, with figures showing a spike in the number of livestock being slaughtered.

The number of sheep sent for slaughter in June jumped 39.3 per cent compared to June 2017, to 869,660 animals, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The surge came despite the bumper prices farmers are getting for their wool clip, thanks to strong demand from overseas.

The drought is forcing farmers to sell off livestock. Credit:Reuters

Lamb slaughterings also recorded a sizeable jump, rising 12.2 per cent in June to a whisker under 2.1 million. Lisa Wardlaw-Kelly, the head of agricultural statistics at the ABS, said the number of lambs slaughtered in June 2018 was the highest in decades.

Cattle slaughterings rose 7.8 per cent to 655,621.
Almost a decade after a Qantas aircraft carrying 303 passengers nosedived twice due to a computer malfunction, the last of the plane's pilots and flight attendants to have pursued legal action have settled their claims in the US against two manufacturers.

Qantas Flight 72 was en route from Singapore to Perth on October 7, 2008, when one of the A330's three air-data units sent incorrect information to other systems, resulting in a flight control computer twice commanding the aircraft to nosedive off the West Australian coast.

Eleven passengers and one flight attendant suffered severe injuries, including fractures and lacerations, while 99 passengers and eight crew had minor injuries.

The captain of QF72, Kevin Sullivan, second officer Ross Hales and customer service manager Lisa Polizzi reached settlement in their personal injury claim against European plane maker Airbus and aerospace company Northrop Grumman during mediation last month, just days before the case was due to go to hearing in the Cook County Court in Chicago.
An investor has paid $945,000 for an industrial facility at 74-80 Melverton Drive. The 630 sq m office warehouse includes 189 sq m of storage space and is currently leased on a short term basis, Knight Franks George Linn and Luke Crozier said. LEASES Armadale Kay & Burton real estate agency is expanding, leasing the ground and first floors at 946 High Street. The 300 sq m space was leased for $112,000 per annum, a per sq m rate of $373, Josh McMullin from Morley Commercial said. Mr McMullin also leased 80 Jolimont Street in East Melbourne to advisory firm JACX Property. The 166 sq m office space was leased for $65,000 per annum. Brunswick

Fast growing retail brand Retro Star has leased a 1100 sq m facility at 17-19 Hope Street. Retro Star supplies its products to fashion houses and major retail outlets. CBREs Guy Naselli and Jake George negotiated the five year lease with a five year option at a rate of $85 per sq m. Footscray A new medical clinic is to open opposite the Footscray Hospital and Western Private Hospital at 20 Eleanor Street. Fitzroys Stephen Land negotiated a three year lease for the purpose-built 194 sq m clinic with a new tenant at $85,000 per annum net. The building has six consulting rooms, a waiting area and filing room. Windsor Hair salon Sechoir will move to a new shopfront at 242 High Street, relocating from Armadale on a 5 + 5 + 5 year lease at $50,000 per annum. Burgess Rawsons Sam Fogarty said the deal was negotiated off-market through a pre-existing relationship with the tenant.

Tullamarine Freight company Royal Express Group has more than doubled its footprint in the Melbourne market after relocating to Propertylinks 55-65 Sky Road property. Royal Express signed a 10-year lease for a 10,049 sq m office warehouse. CBREs Daniel Eramo and Daniel De Sanctis negotiated the deal at rent around $85 per sq m (net). Narre Warren Health services organisation La Trobe Community Health has leased 700 sq m of office space in the new Casey Business Park at 68 Victor Crescent. CBREs Gianni Macdonald and Elise Betts inked the three year lease on behalf of landlord Lettieri Developments for $395 per sq m (gross). La Trobe Community Health has also let the fifth floor of 76 Thomas Street in Dandenong on a three year lease at $400 per sq m (gross). In another deal, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and Brotherhood of St Lawrence have secured space in a five-level office building at 454 Nepean Highway in Frankston. Both deals were struck at about $350 per sq m (gross). MOVERS
Transurban's chief toller, Scott Charlton, must be hitting his performance targets. After all, his total pay package rose to $7.055 million in 2017-18, from $6.6 million a year earlier, putting him among our most highly paid corporate titans.

Transurban CEO Scott Charlton has declared he will not overpay for WestConnex. Credit:Pat Scala

Hes now well ahead of plebs in the pack like our big bank chiefs who have fallen down the pay pecking order, although he does have more work on his plate nowadays.

This includes the arduous task of convincing the competition tsar that Transurban does not have a monopoly hold on toll roads on Australia's eastern seaboard.
Among the explanations is one that is particularly counterintuitive and so sensitive that no female chief executives would speak about it on the record. Several female leaders told me privately they hesitate to promote women into senior positions because they are worried that they will be accused of bias. In their view, a man will be heralded for doing so while a woman's motives might be questioned. Loading It is worth lingering on that for a moment. If some female executives feel reticent to promote women for fear that their actions will be questioned, then the entire approach to creating more gender equality needs to be rethought. Ilene Lang, interim president & chief executive of Catalyst, scoffed at the idea that female chief executives should be responsible for creating opportunities for woman any more than men are.

"Why are women expected to promote more women?" she asked. "Why are the women being over-scrutinised more than men? That's the issue. It's unfair to conclude that women should be doing more than men do." One other significant explanation for the lack of women succeeding other women as chief executive is this: Out of the 71 instances in which women have been named chief executive, only 15 were external candidates, according to Catalyst. In other words, culturally, it is much less likely that a woman will be hired from the outside, which means having a diverse development pipeline becomes even more important. Nooyi said in an interview that the pool of talented women with the right skill set was in short supply when the company considered succession planning at Pepsico. Nooyi strived to put healthier PepsiCo products into the market. Credit:Bloomberg

"I would have loved for the board to have had a woman to pick from. But at the end of the day, the board selects the CEO, and we just didn't have any women who were ready for the job," she said. "What happens in today's world is that everybody is trying to get high-profile women. So what happens is that we develop these women and other people poach them." Loading "Smaller companies ask them to be the CEO of a smaller company, sometimes before they are ready for the CEO job," Nooyi said, adding that she actually had a female executive in mind as her successor, but that woman left several years ago for a job elsewhere. She didn't mention her name, but Nooyi seemed to be referring to Crew, former president and general manager of PepsiCo North America Nutrition, who left the company in 2014 to become president of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.

She later became the company's chief executive before leaving in 2017, when it was acquired by British American Tobacco. "If she had stuck around and performed well, she was a shoo-in." Nooyi said. "She would have been on the slate of candidates." "Promoting women is not the issue," said Nooyi, who actively added women to the company's upper ranks  the company's senior management includes eight woman out of 27 total. Instead, she said, it's about "creating an environment, especially if you are running a global company, where women who cannot run overseas businesses can still move up." "How do we give them the international experiences? We have to develop those women differently."
Almost a year after state authorities urgently intervened in and then shut down Berkeley Living, where bedridden residents were left to fend for themselves in the wake of a staff walkout, Consumer Affairs Victoria has begun criminal proceedings against the man operating the retirement village.

In a media statement, Consumer Affairs Victoria alleged Stephen Snowden operated the retirement village in Patterson Lakes between July and September 2017 when he was not permitted to do so.

Concerns: Police investigated the wellbeing of residents at Berkeley Living. Credit:Daniel Pockett

It said it was seeking a financial penalty against Mr Snowden. The case will be heard at the Frankston Magistrates Court.

Under section 17 of the Retirement Villages Act, the maximum penalty is 50 penalty units for one count, which amounts to $8059.50.
"It was very, very confusing as I knew nothing about it and I was getting complaints from customers genuinely confused thinking it was a repackaging." Ms Wilson says the No Added Sugar range has a lot of similarities to the I Quit Sugar range. "The ingredient lists are the same and the raw products like the rice malt syrup one could say it is identical," she says. "That was quite unique to my platform and the education I did about it." Ms Wilson says she contacted Future Generation Foods which has denied the products are the same. Sarah Wilson claims the ingredients list between No Added Sugar and I Quit Sugar products is very similar.

"I am powerless to find out what the circumstances are unless I take legal action and that's just not my style," she says. "People are saying I should get lawyers involved and I should sue them but I have better things to do." Ms Wilson published a post on her website on Monday entitled, Hey, whats the deal with the No Added Sugar range?, raising her concerns with the products. "I had to tell the community as I don't have a customer service team, I have been left with the issue," she says. "People associate it with me and I am now implicated." Sarah Wilson in her kitchen. Credit:James Brickwood Closing I Quit Sugar

After closing I Quit Sugar Wilson sold the recipes from the business to Sam Wood's 28 by Sam Wood program for an undisclosed amount. Wilson says she has given all the profit from I Quit Sugar to charity but the amount is "still emerging". "All my work now goes to a philanthropic trust I have built," she says. "I closed the business for very specific reasons and it was to do with my values and putting my energy towards other things. This drags me back to all the stuff I conciously made a decision to move on from." Sarah Wilson's best selling I Quit Sugar book. 'Unprofitable' products

Ms Wilson says she received no money from Future Generation Foods for the I Quit Sugar range in two years. "My hands were tied, I still don't know why it happened," she says. "I was told the products were not a hit in the marketplace and they didn't make money but an almost identical range emerged a few months later by the same people. I was left quite mystified." Future Generation Foods is owned by husband and wife Matthew and Joanne Bailey. The couple operate the business through holding company Bailey Brothers Pty Ltd which has offices in Melbourne, Sydney and Hong Kong.

Mr Bailey lists his job title on LinkedIn as a disruptive innovator. He was previously the chief executive of family business The Bailey Group which was Australia's largest outsourced sales and merchandising business and of advertising and public relations agency the Photon Group. Photon Group raised over $100 million in 2010 with its stocks soaring to $1.02 in June then plunging to 9. Mr Bailey was replaced as chief executive and the business became Enero in 2012. Loading Fairfax Media contacted Mr and Mrs Bailey for comment but did not receive a response.
For the first time in 10 years, the MySchool website might not be able to compare 2018 NAPLAN scores between schools or with previous years amid concerns that the results from the online and pen-and-paper versions of the tests are too different.

State education department heads have questioned whether the two sets of results are statistically comparable after seeing the test scores ahead of the release of a summary of preliminary results, which had been due on Wednesday.

There are concerns that the 2018 NAPLAN results could be invalid.

At a meeting of department heads and the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) last week, three options were canvassed: reporting preliminary results as planned, issuing two separate reports, or not reporting them at all, the ABC reported.

Victorian Education Minister James Merlino slammed ACARA over its management of the NAPLAN online on Wednesday, saying it had been appalling.
Dead Lucky (Wednesday at 9.30pm) just might be the most SBS show ever made.

The four-part series, which winds up next week (but is available on SBS On Demand for another month or so), is ostensibly a crime thriller, and a pretty decent one at that. There's a serial bandit and cop killer on the loose, a missing-presumed-dead girl, a shop owner who's been slain with his own gun, and a man wrongfully accused of his murder. That's plenty to be cracking on with on a school night.

What elevates this within the line-up of SBS programming is all the boxes it ticks in terms of hot-button issues  which, let's face it, is the niche the network has claimed as its own in recent years.

Domestic violence: check. Foreign students working as low-paid labourers: check. The franchise-store scandal: check, with both ends covered  underpayment of workers and gouging by head office  so really that's a double-check, mate. Sexism in the police force: check. PTSD: check. The trade in forged essays among foreign students under pressure from home to succeed: check. Gambling, drugs, money laundering: check, check, check.
A former Canberra bikie boss lost a finger during a naked firefight with armed men at his southside home.

Former Comanchero ACT president Peter Zdravkovic had been in the shower about 10.35pm on June 28, while his family slept nearby.

However, outside a group of three armed men were climbing over his backfence.

Dramatic details of the incident, which was captured on CCTV, were revealed in the ACT Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

Court documents said an armed group opened a roller door to a carport and signalled to a stolen vehicle, driven by a fourth man, which reversed into the driveway to deliver jerry cans of petrol.
When Sonoma Bakery fired up the ovens for a test run last week the comforting smell of baking bread literally stopped people in the street.

The iconic Sydney bakery will open on Lonsdale Street in Braddon on Monday August 13 and while the past few months have been a hectic blur of construction, recruitment, and detail, all it took was the smell of one golden loaf to make everyone slow down.

Sonoma Bakery's head of bakery operations Jordan Miller at the new Braddon site with the state of the art Kornfeil oven. Credit:Jamila Toderas

Sonomas head of bakery operations Jordan Miller has been baking since he was a teenager, first with a retail bakery in a suburban shopping centre, and Sonoma since 2001, but he still gets great pleasure from seeing the finished product, and that smell.

The last three weeks I've been here on site, it's a building site not a bakery just yet, and last Thursday when we did a test run on the ovens the smell of baking bread just hit me, he said.
Its the 8th of the 8th, the centenary of the start of the final Allied, and Australian, offensive in the First World War.

Erich Ludendorff, the former Prussian staff officer whod risen to supreme command (with his titular superior Paul von Hindenburg) described today as the black day of the German Army. For the first time his soldiers were unable to halt the attacks before they outdistanced their own integral artillery support. Instead, large numbers surrendered as the push continued. It wasnt a breakthrough and didnt result in a sudden collapse  the war would continue, along with thousands of deaths and more maimings, for months until the final armistice in November.

The German railway gun, which became known as "the Amiens Gun" after its capture on August 8, 1918 by the 31st Battalion during the Battle of Amiens. The gun is on display at the Australian War Memorial. Credit:AAP/Australian War Memorial

What todays attack meant was that the end was not in doubt.

It had been very different just a few months before, in March 1918. Reinforced by a mass of divisions that had been fighting against the Russians until they collapsed in 1917, a German offensive (code-named Michael) had come very close to breaking the British front. Storm-troopers using new infiltration tactics developed on the eastern front had sent the Allied forces reeling back. Nevertheless intense and bitter fighting had held the line. The months since had witnessed the arrival of the first American forces and the recovery of the French army, wracked by numerous mutinies. For the Allies the end was finally in sight.
When astronaut-trainer Gail Iles tugged the virtual-reality headset off her face so she could wipe away a tear, Mitchell Manganaro knew he had something special.

Mitchell Manganaro is part of a small team of Australian designers who are, improbably, working with NASA to build their virtual-reality astronaut training simulator.

A virtual astronaut stares at the International Space Station. Credit:Opaque Media

The centrepiece is a painstakingly-detailed virtual replica, accurate right down to the rivets, of the International Space Station.

It was, Dr Iles said, just like being there.
Sydney lord mayor Clover Moore has warned the Berejiklian government's proposed higher-density overhaul of the Waterloo social housing estate is a "planning disaster" set to create "ghettos of the future" in the city's inner south.

The government's three design options for the massive redevelopment, released last week, included towers up to 40 storeys and as many as 7200 homes, more than triple the 2000 current residences.

An artist's impression for one of the options of the redevelopment, the Waterloo Village Green. Credit:NSW government

Cr Moore said plans for the project would turn the area around the Waterloo metro station into "one of the highest density precincts in Australia".

She said the revamp had been proposed "despite the fact that it is already surrounded by other huge development sites, with no detail about how the area will cope".
A middle-aged man who has lived in Australia for 50 years has lost a court bid to halt his deportation after his visa was cancelled on character grounds.

David Degning, 57, migrated to Australia from the United Kingdom when he was seven, and until recently lived at Batemans Bay on the NSW south coast where he worked as a tradesman.

David Degning is facing deportation from Australia.

In January, his permanent visa was cancelled by Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton over criminal convictions including drink driving, stealing, and sexual intercourse with a woman who had a cognitive impairment.

Mr Dutton found there was an "unacceptable risk of harm to the Australian community" if Mr Degning remained in the country, and said the "serious nature" of the sexual offence meant the community would expect Mr Degning should not hold a visa.
A 14-year-old boy and his aunt will face court after a violent arrest that left a police officer with deep bite wounds  and the family dog shot in the head.

Officers from Manning Great Lakes Police District were called to a property in Marjorie Street, Taree on Monday evening over an alleged breach of bail by the teenager, NSW Police said in a statement.

As officers were attempting to arrest him, the scene turned ugly. Police allege the boy's 36-year-old aunt entered the fray with a metal curtain rod, assaulting a male senior constable.

Police responded with pepper spray, but as they were arresting the woman the family dog bit a male police officer.
A man has died and a police officer is injured after separate incidents involving stolen vehicles in NSW overnight.

Just after 10pm on Tuesday, a stolen taxi and truck crashed on Bells Line of Road in Bilpin.

The male driver of the taxi died at the scene, and the truck driver was uninjured.

While police are yet to identify the driver of the taxi, they said investigations suggested the taxi was stolen at knifepoint from Lithgow, about 20 minutes before the crash.
The owner of guitar shop Global Vintage, Rene Roth, has a downbeat view of what could be done to revitalise Parramatta Road.

Its a lost cause, he says. You can see the hodgepodge of buildings - abandoned buildings, abandoned shops - [with people thinking] lets just let this sit here for four years until we get council approval to knock it down and build apartments.

Nicholas Munning works at Global Vintage, a guitar shop on busy Parramatta Road in Annandale. Credit:Jessica Hromas

The retail strip has got worse in the 10 years he has been operating, with the 35 per cent of his business online keeping him going. All the shops have closed, he says. While Roth wont divulge how much rent he pays, he concedes it is not much.

The rent here is cheaper than the rent in a shop in the main street of Bathurst because nobody wants to put a shop here, he says.
The co-owner of one of Australias biggest surveillance equipment retailers has been charged with a string of drug and weapons offences.

Queensland police on Friday conducted an early-morning raid on the Gold Coast home of John Vlamis, 53, one of two men behind the Ozspy chain of high street shops that sell bugging devices, counter-surveillance equipment and CCTV cameras and provide security services to businesses.

John Vlamis (right) with Craig Mitchell. There is no suggestion Mr Mitchell had any involvement in the alleged offences.

According to the QPS, officers seized "a substantial amount" of cash at Vlamis home in Oxenford  understood to be about $60,000  as well as methylamphetamine, cocaine, other drugs, utensils and a device similar to a taser.

Documents tendered in the Southport Magistrates Court on Monday show Vlamis was charged with possessing more than 200 grammes of methylamphetamine, between two and 200 grams of cocaine, a quantity of cannabis, possessing cash suspected of being the proceeds of an offence and unlawful possession of an "electrical anti-personnel device" as well as a glass pipe and digital scales.
A man found guilty of killing a Queensland mother by smothering her to death with her jeans has won a retrial.

Robert Trebeck was found guilty in 2016 of murdering mother-of-three Alexis Jeffery, 24, during a night out in Goondiwindi in 2014.

Goondiwindi mother-of-three Alexis Jeffery's body was found on the banks of the Macintyre River.

The pair met at a local pub and were later spotted becoming intimate at a nearby park.

Ms Jeffery's body was found partially clothed on the banks of the town's Macintyre River.
A knife-wielding woman has successfully robbed a south-east Queensland bank only to be arrested and charged after crashing the stolen getaway car.

Police allege the 35-year-old Ipswich woman stole a 76-year-old woman's car at the Corinda shopping centre on Tuesday before driving west to Lowood, west of Brisbane.

It was there that she robbed the Bendigo Bank on Walters Street and threatened staff.

However her getaway came to an end when she crashed into a truck near Ipswich during a police pursuit.

She is due to appear in the Ipswich Magistrates Court on Wednesday on a string of charges including armed robbery and robbery with violence.
It might seem a big deal, Sky News admitting that it made a terrible mistake giving a platform to Blair Cottrell, the human protein slab, convicted criminal and Adolf Hitler superfan. But all of this has happened before on Sky News After Dark, and all of this will happen again.

Cottrells appearance was not a mistake, or an aberration. It was a perfectly routine part of Skys business model. When the working journalists clock off for the day, the network ceases to report information. Instead it offers meaning. A human centipede of jabbering trolls tries to explain the world in a way that identifies who are friends, who are enemies, and what must be done to protect the former from the latter.

Blair Cottrell's appearance on Sky News was no aberration. Credit:Matthew Lynn

Sky News After Dark isnt a news operation, its a digital Nuremberg Rally. Thats how somebody like Cottrell ends up looking like a legitimate contributor to the national discourse, at least for the short time hes in studio framed by green screen effects and the ever present chyron.

Nor is there any mystery about why otherwise intelligent professionals would debase themselves and their network by interviewing the likes of Cottrell. The old advertising based media business model has been shattered by new media disruptors such as Facebook and Google. Sky, like everyone in news, is desperately looking for a new way to make money. People might not want to pay for basic information any more, but they will still hand over their credit card details to anyone who can confirm their biases. And the stronger that confirmation bias? The more addictive and profitable feeding it becomes.
Death comes for us all ... but how?

Even though Australia's population has been growing at a rapid pace and we're set to break the 25 million mark later today, more than 750,000 Australians have passed away in the past five years.

These are the most likely causes.

National health data shows about 40 per cent of deaths in Australia in the past five years could be traced back to six causes  heart attacks, dementia, lung cancer, strokes, lung disease and diabetes.

But what are the top causes of death in your area? If you type your local council area into this interactive, we will show you the top 10 causes of death there.
Former North Melbourne star Shannon Grant has been spared jail over three separate assaults on his then partner, after a judge struck out a prison term partly because his offending cost him his jobs and damaged his reputation.

Grant, 41, was in June jailed by a magistrate for six months for three instances of domestic violence  all fuelled by alcohol and jealousy  across six months last year, and pleaded guilty to three counts of unlawful assault and one of reckless assault.

Former AFL footballer Shannon Grant leaves the County Court of Victoria on Tuesday. Credit:AAP

But Grant immediately appealed against the magistrates ruling and took his challenge to the County Court.

On Tuesday, Judge Susan Cohen struck out the prison term and instead imposed a two-year community corrections order, including 200 hours of unpaid community work.
In at least one busy inner-city daycare centre in Melbourne, an experienced child-care worker has just checked the city's weather forecast and sighed. It's not good news for her or her team.

Strong winds are set to rattle the city with full force this week again after a July which saw records tumble and she knows that, when it blows, her hopes for a quiet day will be dashed.

Melbourne has recorded one of its windiest Julys in 20 years. Credit:Chris Hopkins

''When its windy, our children scream and shout more often, they are less able to move safely around spaces, and they can have trouble hearing others and making decisions,'' she explains. ''We keep a close eye on the weather report, and choose to be inside when the wind kicks up.

''It seems to influence children to different degrees  but it can be quite frightening and seems to put some children on edge.''
A dying Perth father stranded in Bali while attempting to fulfil his bucket list could be on a flight back to Australia in a matter of days thanks to the "overwhelming" generosity of strangers.

Following doctor revelations he only had months to live, Duncan Turner, 46, his partner Michelle Edgar and their five-year-old daughter Amelie traveled to Singapore to cross off swimming with dolphins from their bucket list earlier this month.

The family crossing off little Amelie's bucket list goal.

However, while overseas Mr Turner's health worsened.

His inability to get insurance coverage for the trip due to his medical conditions meant the family was forced to give up a bed in a Balinese hospital after it became too expensive to keep him in treatment.
Local councils will be enlisted as recruiters for nurses, tradies and farmers to help push new migrants into regional areas under changes to Australia's migration program that give business sponsorship powers to local government.

The changes mean thousands of visas will be tied to living in an area rather than a particular employer as Canberra wrestles with a regional skill shortage and Melbourne and Sydney struggle to catch up with the infrastructure demands of a surging population.

Australia's population hit 25 million at 11pm on Tuesday, 33-years-ahead of the Bureau of Statistics' 1998 estimate. Department of Home Affairs figures show 87 per cent of the 112,000 skilled migrants that arrived last year settled in Sydney or Melbourne, while rural areas struggle to find workers.

Citizenship Minister Alan Tudge. Credit:Andrew Meares

Citizenship Minister Alan Tudge said the designated area migration agreement "will cover all industries and positions where there are identified and proven shortages."
With an impasse increasingly likely this Friday, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull may have to take his policy to the next federal election to seek the support of the electorate over the objections of the states. Mr Frydenberg has warned that there is no alternative to the energy guarantee if the states and territories do not sign up, while Grattan Institute energy analyst Tony Wood has called for a compromise on the plan because of the danger of a policy vacuum if the negotiations collapse. The Victorian government conditions are that the energy guarantee regime should only allow the emissions target to rise over time and never go backwards, should allow the target to be adjusted by regulation, should set the target every three years with a notice period of three years, and should include the transparent registry. Some Liberal and Nationals MPs are already critical of the 26 per cent target and appear unlikely to accept the idea that a future Labor government could increase the target without seeking a vote in Parliament, an area that appears to be non-negotiable for Mr Frydenberg. The Victorian government, led by Premier Daniel Andrews, has set four conditions on its support for the energy guarantee. Credit:AAP

The Victorian government appears to be pushing for changes that make it as difficult as possible for Mr Turnbull to secure support from his own Liberal and Nationals backbenchers. We can still get this right  but only if Malcolm Turnbull stares down the climate crazies in his party and puts a workable scheme on the table that doesnt hurt local jobs and households, said Victorian Energy Minister Lily DAmbrosio. Federal Labor energy spokesman Mark Butler has described the energy guarantee as workable in recent weeks. ACT Climate Change Minister Shane Rattenbury wrote to Mr Frydenberg on Tuesday night to set out the new demands, including additionality. In another move to press for a more ambitious scheme, the Greens signalled they would press for emission reductions of 90 per cent in the electricity sector, posing a likely complication for Labor should it win office at the next election without an absolute majority.

The Greens stance, announced on Tuesday, underscores the importance of negotiations over the final design of the Turnbull governments national energy guarantee. Labor states want a future federal government to control the setting of emission reductions imposed on the electricity sector, rather than being beholden to forces in Parliament seeking bolder or weaker climate action ambition. Mr Frydenberg said on Monday that federal Labor wanted free rein to change the targets because it doesnt want to have to deal with the Greens to change the legislation if it wins office. Loading Greens climate change and energy spokesman Adam Bandt told Fairfax Media his party would seek a number of amendments if the energy policy came before Parliament in its current form. This would include cutting electricity sector emissions by 90 per cent by 2030, based on a 2005 baseline. The proposal is far greater than both the Coaltion's 26 per cent target and Labor's 45 per cent goal over the same period.

The Greens target is for 100 per cent renewable energy as soon as possible and well negotiate with any future Labor government to achieve that goal, he said. If we find ourselves with the balance of power in both houses like we did in 2010 then [a 90 per cent emissions reduction target] is certainly something we will be putting on the table. We hope that in the future ... we will be in a position to get greater pollution reduction and more renewable energy in the system. The ability of future federal governments to easily lift the targets has been a key point of dispute ahead of the meeting of the nations energy ministers on Friday. Mr Butler did not comment on the Greens' position, but said "we dont support tying the hands of future governments by locking in grossly inadequate emissions reduction targets".

The Greens are yet to finalise a position on the national energy guarantee. However it is understood the party is highly unlikely to back the 26 per cent target unless a legislative mechanism exists to prevent Parliament from disallowing any increases. Federal Labor has not yet specified the conditions under which it would consider supporting the 26 per cent target if it comes before Parliament. Activist group GetUp urged the premiers to veto the energy guarantee in order to create an alternative policy. Theres a clear option: we kill off renewables growth and pollute the planet with a do-nothing NEG locked in for a decade, or we develop a policy that sets strong targets and continues the renewables boom to deliver a cleaner and greener Australia, said GetUp energy campaigns director Miriam Lyons. But an alliance of big employers, manufacturers and industry groups called for an agreement on the energy guarantee as soon as possible in order to act on the design put forward by peak energy regulators.
The bitter Emma Husar row has spread, with Ms Husar accusing a state Labor parliamentary colleague - understood to be shadow minister Prue Car - of deliberately "isolating" her and excluding her from media events within her own electorate.

Ms Husar, the federal member for the marginal seat of Lindsay, details the fresh complaints in a supplementary response to barrister John Whelan, who is investigating a raft of allegations against Ms Husar lodged by former staff.

Labor leader Bill Shorten visits Penrith with Emma Husar (left) and Prue Car (right) in March 2015. Credit:Michele Mossop

Ms Husar also complains she has been the target of threats of "physical violence" since the original allegations about her conduct were leaked to Buzzfeed late last month, and says she has reported the threats to the Australian Federal Police.

She has rejected the vast majority of the allegations, instead pointing the finger at what she describes as "dysfunctional local politics and sub-factions" operating "under the radar" within her sprawling western Sydney electorate.
Yet another stalemate looms in Australia's fractious energy and climate policy debate, with partisan politics once more taking a dominant role in shaping the debate along party lines. But an attempt to separate the politics from the policy leaves us wondering what, other than a fleeting consensus, the Turnbull government's current policy will achieve. The hard-working Environment and Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg argues the federal government's National Energy Guarantee policy will cut emissions, reduce power prices by $150 per household and give investment certainty. He and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull are urging the states to support the NEG on Friday. But while credit is due for trying to reach a compromise, this policy does not appear capable of delivering all that much certainty, nor help Australia meet its international climate change commitments. Minister for the Environment and Energy Josh Frydenberg. Credit:AAP The NEG includes some changes to reliability standards, which are potentially useful. But these alone cannot offer true certainty to investors, because the energy sector is being disrupted by the reality of climate change. The NEG importantly sets up a very complicated carbon emissions reduction mechanism designed to help meet Australia's commitment under the Paris targets of a 26 per cent cut in carbon emissions below 2005 levels by 2030. A bipartisan national climate policy is welcome and overdue - but the problem is that the efforts outlined in the NEG mechanism are clearly too low to meet the Paris targets.

The NEG mandates a 26 per cent cut in parts of the electricity sector that accounts for perhaps 30 per cent of total emissions. That is little different to business as usual in the national electricity market in the eastern states. Moreover it allows WA and certain trade-exposed industries such as steel to keep raising emissions, and it crucially leaves out the emissions from all the non-electricity sectors such as farming, transport, domestic gas and manufacturing. This creates a fundamental uncertainty that will remain even if the NEG is passed. The government is still committed to the Paris targets but its plan will only get us a quarter of the way there. The refusal to cut electricity emissions is baffling since electricity is the sector where there is already a relatively cheap and proven way to cut emissions. Any future government will have to either announce cuts to emissions from other sectors or else dramatically cut electricity emissions - or abrogate the Paris climate treaty. Hoping to smuggle this very ambiguous plan past the climate-change deniers in its own party room, the Coalition argues the target could be raised at a review set down for 2024. In the interests of investment certainty the government says any change in the target would require new legislation. Perhaps in six years, the evidence of climate change will be so overwhelming or the costs of cutting emissions so trifling that debate will be easier. The past decade however suggests the debate on a new target or measures in other sectors will be just as bitter as it is today. Greener states will respond to a deadlock at a national level by passing their own inconsistent renewable energy targets. The uncertainty of which the electricity sector has complained will continue unabated. It's commendable that bipartisan agreement is a primary goal of the Coalition policy. And certainly, if the states sign up, the National Energy Guarantee will not be catastrophic, nor even remotely the worst option.
The political dispute about energy and climate is clouded by three fictions that make progress on the National Energy Guarantee almost impossible  unless all sides agree on the facts.

The first is the fiction that states have a role in setting Australias emission reduction targets and that this must be part of their decision on the NEG.

There is a reason the federal government has agreed to cut emissions by 26 per cent by 2030: it must deliver on the Australian commitment at the United Nations talks on climate change every year. The states are not parties to those talks. The target is a national decision to be made by the national Parliament.

State and territory environment ministers meet with federal minister Josh Frydenberg earlier this year. Credit:Joe Armao

The creation of the NEG has given the states and territory a new way to influence climate policy because any jurisdiction can veto the new scheme. This blurs the lines again between federal and state responsibilities, a risky approach that gives politicians an easy way to play blame games.
Instead of going through a months-long tribunal process, consumers who cannot resolve complaints about items worth less than $3000 will soon be able to take their issue straight to the NSW Fair Trading Commissioner.

A bill being introduced to Parliament on Wednesday will give the commissioner powers to direct businesses to repair, refund or replace goods, the NSW Minister for Better Regulation, Matt Kean, said.

NSW Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean is introducing a bill to Parliament to increase the Fair Trading Commissioner's powers. Credit:James Alcock

This means fair, quick and cheap resolutions for consumers and businesses, and will be an alternative to the often costly process of courts and tribunals," he said.

In an ideal world, consumers and businesses work out a resolution without outside help, the minister said - however, for some consumers that process fails.
The developer behind the proposed revamp of Richmonds neglected Nylex site has been given 21 days to clean up the former maltings buildings on the banks of the Yarra  or face hefty fines.

Caydon Property Group fought a lengthy planning battle against Yarra Council and ultimately won the right to develop about 1000 apartments on the site in several stages.

A mural on the Nylex silos. Credit:Eddie Jim

But the project has not yet begun. Part of the site burnt down last year, and a second fire caused significant damage. The site is also regularly broken into by people wanting to climb to the buildings rooftop.

The Nylex clock and the wider Richmond Maltings site, which were built in the 1850s to brew beer and store grain, are protected on the Victorian Heritage Register.
West Australian Agriculture Minister Alannah MacTiernan is aiming to relaunch the live sheep export industry next month with reputable producers and reduced stocking densities.

Shocking footage showed sheep dying in horrific conditions on a ship to the Middle East in August last year. Credit:Animals Australia

About 60,000 sheep remain in a Perth feedlot after the Department of Agriculture suspended the export licences of Emanuel Exports and associated entity EMS Rural Exports.

"We hope in a month's time to restart this industry with reputable producers, reasonable stocking densities and on modern ships," Ms MacTiernan told reporters on Monday.

Emanuel, which was behind the Awassi Express shipment where thousands of sheep died, could not agree on terms with exporters Wellard and Harmony Agriculture, while Livestock Shipping Services also voluntarily withdrew from the northern summer trade.
Dhaka: It was late on Sunday when at least 20 to 30 men, all in plain clothes, entered the offices of the Drik Picture Library in Dhaka, Bangladesh, to forcefully remove its founder, photographer Shahidul Alam.

The arrest came hours after Alam posted to Facebook a video about ongoing student protests in Bangladesh. The photographer also spoke to Al Jazeera, claiming police had sought "help from armed goons to combat unarmed students demanding safe roads."

The Committee to Protect Journalists has asked for Alam to be released without charge immediately. "Authorities should also ensure that Alam and all journalists covering unrest in Dhaka are able to work without fear of attack or arrest," said CPJ Asia Program Coordinator Steven Butler.

Omar Waraich, Amnesty Internationals deputy south Asia director said Alam must be "immediately and unconditionally released".
Former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak will this week be hit with a fresh round of charges for money laundering offences and face further questioning by anti-corruption authorities, Fairfax Media can reveal.

According to a source with direct knowledge of the investigation, Najib will attend court on Wednesday, charged with three offences in relation to suspicious transactions at SRC International, formerly a subsidiary of 1MDB, the state investment fund at the centre of a multibillion dollar corruption scandal that has rocked Malaysia.

It has previously been reported that a total of 42 million Malaysian ringgit ($14 million) was transferred from SRC International, through two intermediary entities, into Najib's private accounts with AmBank. This is part of a total $1.9 billion of 1MDB funds allegedly deposited into his accounts.

Najib Razak walks into a courtroom in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia where he was charged with corruption offences. Credit:AP

ANZ Banking Group is the single largest shareholder of AmBank, holding a 24 per cent stake, and is able to appoint appoint representatives to the board and fill key executive roles. ANZ has consistently denied any involvement with the suspect transactions at AmBank.
As many as 600,000 people have been affected by the earthquake, with up to 20,000 people living in temporary shelters. Indonesian authorities are struggling to get help to people hit hardest, according to Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a spokesman for the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, BNPB, because of the difficult conditions rescuers face. Overnight to Tuesday, two more strong after shocks of 5.4 and 5.5 hit Lombok, with each lasting around 10 seconds. Todd, from Northbridge, told Fairfax Media at Lombok airport that he and his wife had spent a night sleeping in a carpark after the earthquake hit. Hundreds of tourists slept at Lombok Airport waiting for the first chance to leave. Credit:Amilia Rosa

While the locals had been terrific in offering help, the couple were now cutting short their holiday. We are going to Singapore, we just want to get out of Indonesia to be honest, Todd said. It was pretty scary  it was terrifying. I cant imagine what it was like for the people who were up where it really happened [the epicentre], it would be just awful. An injured woman lies at a temporary shelter in North Lombok. Credit:AP

Twenty-three-year old local man Ghozali who lives in northern Lombok and works on the tourist island of Gili T, slept outside with his extended family on Monday night because of serious structural damage to his home. Ghozali told Fairfax Media that he and other locals working in the industry feared it would be a long time before tourists returned to Lombok, which would mean he would lose his income after already losing so much in the earthquake. I was working there [Gili T] and this afternoon I came here [to Lombok], he said. A doctor examines an injured child. Credit:AP It was very difficult, people were fighting [to get on boats].

Asked when he would go back to work, Ghozali said I dont know and that without work, it will be really hard. He and his family had briefly returned to their homes, he said, to claim the food and water they could but that was now running out. On Monday evening, Fairfax Media met locals who have been hard hit by the devastating quake including a 95-year-old woman, Noorfa, who was being treated for multiple broken bones and a dislocated hip  without anaesthetic, in an open air field hospital  as her son-in-law Lalu Abdurrahman looked on. Noorfa had arrived at the field hospital nearly 24 hours after the earthquake and had received only a saline drip as doctors treated her. Lalu Abdurrahman said he had been unable to save his mother-in-law because I was trying to save my child and she was inside on her own.

So I wasnt able to rescue her when the earthquake struck. I heard her scream my name and I found her pinned by the falling wall. It had taken at least an hour to free her from underneath the wall, he said, with the help of relatives. Another northern Lombok local, Sanisah, nursed her two-month-old baby girl Zilla Fithri while her husband and two other children slept on a tarpaulin in the open air. Sanisah said her family home no longer had walls, and had escaped the earthquake with just the clothes on their back, and had barely enough food or water and had not yet received assistance from the Indonesian government.

No one has come, no doctor, no government official, she said. I need food, I need clothes, I need anything that anyone can give me. Sanisah and her extended family group of about 10 people had had three bags of rice to share that day. Ghozalis assessment of the likely impact on tourism to Lombok was backed by Australian-based Indonesia expert Matthew Busch, a non-resident fellow at the Lowy Institute, who said the effect of the most recent earthquake, and another one a week ago, could be severe for the local tourism sector. A damaged mosque in North Lombok. Credit:AP

Things happen all over south-east Asia and Australians continue to go back. Think of the Bali bombings for example, it hasnt persuaded Australians not to travel to Bali. And I think it probably revived more quickly than people thought, he said. However, Lombok is perhaps a bit different as, for example, there isnt infrastructure in place to deal with these disasters. So if you find yourself in a place like Lombok during a disaster, you are quite far away from help and the ability to be evacuated. It becomes apparent that they dont have the infrastructure to handle this kind of thing, so perhaps people will evaluate that in the future. Phil Turtle, from the Australia-Indonesia Business council, said he thought tourists would return. "This is obviously a terrible tragedy and we would hope its not compounded further by a fall-off in the vastly important tourism industry, as this is a potential double whammy for locals. Australians have a great love for Bali and Lombok, and this will undoubtedly continue."
Berlin: There were calls for a referendum in Germany on Monday after Angela Merkel's likely successor said that she was ready to consider the return of national service.

Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, who is widely seen as Merkel's designated heir, surprised Germany last week when she said she was open to "very intense" discussion.

Angela Merkel, Germany's chancellor and Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader, left, and Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, general secretary of the Christian Democrat Union (CDU). Credit:Bloomberg

Opinion polls showed more than 55 per cent of Germans support the reintroduction of conscription.

But a spokesman for Merkel's government made clear that a return to compulsory military service was out of the question.
An Australian soldier's rescue from a New Zealand mountain is thought to have cost local taxpayers at least $NZ150,000 ($136,000) and 500 volunteer hours.

Terry Harch was hospitalised last week with mild frostbite after spending three days trapped alone on Mount Aspiring in the South Island national park, and then another night with rescuers.

Australian soldier Terry Harch, found after surviving in freezing conditions on Mount Aspiring, has been rescued.

It is not the first time Mr Harch has been saved from a mountain in the Southern Alps. In 2013, he and a friend were rescued from New Zealand's second highest mountain, Mount Tasman.
Government is not the place for WAR but WORK

PHILIPSBURG:--- I have been elected to represent you the people of this country as a member of Parliament and therefore, it is my intention to look out for your best interests at all times. One of my many tasks, is to question the Executive branch (Council of Ministers) until the day that my term is up stated Member of Parliament Egbert Jurendy Doran;

For clarity sake, here is the following information for my peoples consumption:

The Parliament is the highest legislative body of this country and represents the entire population of the Dutch side of the island

Role and Function of Parliament The two most important tasks of parliament is the realization of legislation for Sint Maarten, and secondly, to exercise control over Governments policy. Under the first task, Parliament exercises this task together with Government, so Parliament is called the co-legislator. In order to carry out the aforementioned, the Parliament has a number of powers that allows it to fulfill its two tasks:

 The right to approve and amend the budget;

 The right of interpellation where each Member of Parliament (MP) has the right to question ministers of government in the General Assembly of Parliament;

 The right of initiative allows MPs to submit draft laws on their own initiative;

 The right to amendment allows MPs to amend legislation that has been submitted to Parliament;

 The right to ask questions. Every MP can question a Minister orally or in writing;

 The right to instigate inquiries allows parliament to institute an inquiry into the state of affairs in an event in which Government is involved.

Member of Parliament Doran stated that it is Parliaments duty is to question Ministers on behalf of the people in order for everyone to understand what exactly is taking place in this country.

This is absolutely nothing new and therefore it is truly amazing that questions coming from a Member of Parliament, instead of being answered and explained to the people, is referred to as a form of grandstanding.

According to Doran, the Council of Ministers is no place for over sensitivity, and its members must be prepared at all times for the queries coming from the Members of Parliament or from the people of this country.

A Minister should not allow himself or herself to feel personally attacked and or upset when questioned by Members of Parliament. In this case, no clarification was given as to why the constant postponements without replacements being sent to Parliament were taking place. Instead, what was published was a ranting and raving response concerning everything, without fully answering the question, stated MP Doran.

Let it be known that I will not be deterred by anyone while executing my duties that the good people of this country tasked me with on February 26th 2018, when I was lawfully elected to serve Doran added.

The MP continued by stating that it has always been and will continue to be the task of Parliament to question Ministers and he is therefore calling on any Minister who is called to Parliament, to do what is expected of them and come to the House of Parliament in order to execute that very crucial part of their tasks, which is to answer to the people of this country. After all, this is why they were chosen and consequently appointed. If for some more important" reason one or more cannot come to Parliament for whatever reason, kindly arrange with your replacement to be there in order to respect and honor the people of this country, by showing up and allowing the meeting to continue, therefore allowing our people the opportunity to be informed and updated.

Member of Parliament Doran stated that he will continue to ask questions and meet with ministers as he has been doing for the last months, during or outside of the parliamentary meetings, and that he also will continue to inform the people through the press.

He ended by saying that he is very level headed" and has no time for ranting and raving, as his job description does not include WAR but WORK, which is exactly what he intends to do, in order to be successful in helping to take this country forward, thus making it once again a better place to live in for all the people.
GREAT BAY, (DCOMM):--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), announces that there will be interruption with the traffic flow on the Cay Bay road on Tuesday, August 07, 2018, until Sunday, August 12, 2018 from 7:00 am until 4:00 pm.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

The road closure is in connection with replacement of a gravity sewage line and installation of a pressure sewage line that will be activated sometime in the future.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconveniences this may cause.
Acquisition of new clients

Posted by Publisher Internet

Ecovis Costa Rica has many successful clients. The fact that Ecovis is an international firm has helped us with the acquisition of one of our clients, PTI.

Background

PTI was founded in 2013. Its mission was to own and operate high quality wireless infrastructure sites in stable markets experiencing strong wireless usage growth around the world. PTI is currently focused on expansion of infrastructure throughout Latin America, the Caribbean and the United States.

Issue

PTI initially contracted us to convert the financial statements of their company in Colombia from IFRS to US GAAP. They appreciated Ecovis? work ethic and consequently appointed us to handle their tax services in Costa Rica. In the meantime the company?s CEO and tax officer has confirmed that he intends to sign a contract with us for services in all their other locations.

Ecovis Costa Rica offers them a dedicated service supervised by its accounting and tax partner. Our client was impressed with Ecovis? prompt responses to their requests. The PTI account was formerly handled by a renowned multinational professional services firm. Having compared our services with theirs, our client decided to award Ecovis with their account.

Currently

Ecovis is handling PTI?s tax matters in Costa Rica, and will be expanding its range of services to PTI both in Costa Rica and to all their other locations.

Author

Alberto Porras Rojas, Partner, ECOVIS GCF Costa Rica, San Jose, Costa Rica

Ecovis is a leading global consulting firm with its origins in Continental Europe. It has over 5,000 people operating in over 60 countries. Its consulting focus and core competencies lie in the areas of tax consultation, accounting, auditing and legal advice.

The particular strength of Ecovis is the combination of personal advice at a local level with the general expertise of an international and interdisciplinary network of professionals. Every Ecovis office can rely on qualified specialists in the back offices as well as on the specific industrial or national know-how of all the Ecovis experts worldwide. This diversified expertise provides clients with effective support, especially in the fields of international transactions and investments  from preparation in the client\-\-s home country to support in the target country.

In its consulting work Ecovis concentrates mainly on mid-sized firms. Both nationally and internationally, its one-stop-shop concept ensures all-round support in legal, fiscal, managerial and administrative issues.

The name Ecovis, a combination of the terms economy and vision, expresses both its international character and its focus on the future and growth.

www.ecovis.com
Commify Announces European Acquisitions

Leading European Application to Person (A2P) messaging company acquires Massenversand.de in Germany and SMSUP in Spain

Nottingham, England. 7th August, 2018: Commify (www.commify.com), the company behind a global portfolio of business messaging brands, has today announced two further acquisitions, bringing its total this calendar year to five. This increases its presence in two key European markets and demonstrates its ambitious growth plans.

Goyya Systems, trading as Massenversand.de, based in Dresden, Germany and SMSUP, based in Cordoba, Spain, bring the total number of businesses in the Commify portfolio to twelve and consolidates its position as a European leader in business messaging.

Now with almost 35,000 businesses using its services to send almost 3 billion messages a year and approaching 250 staff, Commify has grown dramatically since starting as Esendex in Nottingham, UK in 2002.

Founded in 2004, Massenversand.de is a long-standing player in the German market, serving a recurring base of 1,000 customers attracted to excellent support and direct mobile network connections. Following recent investment in its platform it is enjoying fast growth in the Self-Serve segment of smaller businesses using its modern products and website.

\The German market is extremely exciting,\ said Geoff Love, CEO of Commify. \We believe it has tremendous potential yet to be realised for the customer segments we target. We see strong growth in the German market for Solution customers with the Esendex brand, and Massenversand.de is complementary to that, adding significant scale, a strong brand in the Self-Serve customer segment and a high-quality customer base. We are looking forward to working with our talented new colleagues to help bring new products to their customers and investing for long-term growth in this important market.\

Founded in 2013, SMSUP is a very fast-growing provider in the dynamic Spanish market. It has 300 customers of all sizes that choose it for its best in class Self-Serve web platform and high levels of service.

\With SMSpubli and Esendex, we already have two strong brands in the Spanish market for Self-Serve and Solution customers and are enjoying high growth,\ said Love. \Adding SMSUP puts us in a market leading position in this territory for these key customer segments. We now have a full range of brands and offerings in Spain to help any size of business, in any sector, embrace mobile technology to transform their customer communications.\

Backed by Hg and with turnover approaching (EUR)100m, Commify has already acquired UK-based Fastsms, Connection Software and M:Science this year.

\Expect further acquisitions as we continue in our mission to make business communication brilliant,\ said Love.
Inoapps\-\- Sprint Makes The Grade At Ofqual With Oracle Cloud

Ofqual (The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) has chosen to implement Oracle Cloud Finance, HCM, Recruitment and Onboarding solutions. In modernising its systems, the organisation selected Oracle Platinum Partner Inoapps (Inoapps.com) from the G-Cloud procurement framework. In time it is anticipated that the new solution will deliver an intuitive self-service experience, integration process efficiencies and automated transactions along with cross-functional reporting and superior business insight.

Ofqual regulates qualifications examinations and assessments in England. As part of its Cloud First strategy, it had sought a superior cloud solution that would support its mission critical business processes well into the future  a requirement that included: finance, HR, recruitment and onboarding. Oracle appeared to tick all the boxes, so Ofqual looked for a partner that had a track record of working with Oracle Cloud and that could work collaboratively with Ofqual\-\-s product team by taking an agile approach to delivery.

The Inoapps team worked closely with Ofqual to take the organisation through its agile Sprint programme methodology. This involved a series of workshops, meetings and prototyping over a period of several weeks to identify Ofqual\-\-s specific needs. On completion of the Sprint programme Ofqual was confident that Oracle Cloud was the right solution and understood how the functionality would work for them. Subsequently, Inoapps implemented Oracle Financials Cloud and Oracle HCM Cloud along with the recruitment and onboarding modules from Oracle\-\-s Talent Management Cloud. There was also an interface to Ofqual\-\-s existing payroll system.

The Sprint approach has received widespread acclaim for flipping Cloud system selection on its head. It achieves this by putting prospective customers in the driving seat, allowing them to familiarise their teams with a proposed \-\-real-life\-\- business solution before making an investment commitment. This real-life familiarity significantly speeds up the selection process and therefore the time taken to go-live. By using Inoapps\-\- agile Sprint methodology, the Ofqual solution went live on budget within just 6 months of the project commencing. Commenting on the implementation, Ofqual\-\-s Chief Information Officer Jan Roszkowski noted,

\Our organisation has been looking at various options for sourcing an integrated finance and HR system. One issue that we have encountered is that when companies run demonstrations of a system, sometimes it\-\-s difficult to relate to how the system would run within our own environment. Inoapps\-\- Sprint approach suited us as, at the end of the process, we really understood whether the solution would work for us. And, when it came to implementation we also built up a good relationship with the Inoapps\-\- team who were very willing to share knowledge and go the extra mile to get the job done. As a result, the implementation was completed on budget and in a timely manner, which was very important to us. The project was only recently completed but already we are experiencing a positive cultural impact with respect to staff.\

For his part, Inoapps\-\- UK Region Leader, Andrew Norris welcomed Roszkowski\-\-s comments, adding: \By the very nature of its business Ofqual sets and demands the very highest standards in all aspects of its business. This includes the technology that supports the organisation\-\-s mission critical business processes. In modernising its Finance, HCM and Talent Management systems, our Sprint approach allowed Ofqual to have a look at what Oracle could do for them without obligation or risk. Following successful system prototyping, we are delighted that Inoapps was selected from the G-Cloud framework to implement the system. This was done on budget and the go-live was just 6 months from the start of the project.\

Inoapps has set up a contact point for those who feel that an agile Sprint approach might help their organisations assess Oracle Cloud. Those interested should email: marketing@inoapps.com
Gold hunters in southern Russia might have been disappointed to learn that the speckled, yellow rock they uncovered was not a sizeable pebble of valuable metal. Instead, it was a rare piece of space-borne rubble containing a new mineral that had never before been seen on Earth.

The mineral came from the Uakit meteorite, named for the Russian location where it was found. Scientists recently presented their discovery of the meteorite's new mineral, named uakitite, at the Annual Meeting of the Meteoritical Society in Moscow.

The researchers found that more than 98 percent of the meteorite consists of kamacite, an alloy of iron and 5 to 10 percent nickel, that's formed in space and is found only in meteorites, which are rocks that fall from space to Earth's surface. The remaining 1 to 2 percent of the meteorite consists of just over a dozen minerals that, for the most part, are exclusively formed in space. On top of that, the composition of the extraordinary space rock suggests that it must have formed under brutally hot temperatures, well over 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit (1,000 degrees Celsius), the researchers said. [Fallen Stars: A Gallery of Famous Meteorites]

The team examined the meteorite with powerful microscopes and identified uakitite as tiny grains no bigger than 5 micrometers  about 25 times smaller than a fine grain of sand. The new mineral is so tiny that the scientists couldn't piece together all its physical properties.

But they were able to determine that the mineral is structurally similar to two other space-borne minerals, carlsbergite and osbornite. These minerals are referred to as mononitrides because they contain a single nitrogen atom in their chemical formula.

Mononitrides are very hard and are sometimes used as abrasive material, said Victor Sharygin, a geologist at the Institute of Geology and Mineralogy in Novosibirsk, Russia, and lead researcher on the discovery of uakitite.

A few news publications have reported that uakitite is harder than a diamond, but Sharygin said that's not the case. In fact, he said, "the hardness of uakitite was not measured directly," because the grains were too small. Instead, the scientists estimated the hardness using synthetically produced vanadium nitride, a mineral that closely resembles uakitite.

The researchers predicted that uakitite is between 9 and 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning it's very hard  a diamond falls at 10. But Sharygin explained that the Mohs scale has a wide range between 9 and 10. All mononitrides fall at this end of the scale, he said, "but their hardness is lower than [that of] a diamond."

Sharygin said that synthetic boron nitride, another mineral produced at insanely hot temperatures, is likely the only mineral that comes close to being as hard as a diamond.

Original article on Live Science.
Astronauts in danger on Boeing's new space capsule will be able to jump into bright orange seats and whoosh down zip lines to get away from their spacecraft before liftoff. And this summer, the space flyers got the chance to test out the superfast emergency-evacuation system.

In the event of an emergency prior to the liftoff of a Boeing/United Launch Alliance spacecraft with passengers, this special egress system would get them to safety.

The Boeing CST-100 Starliner crew capsule which can carry up to seven astronauts at a time to the International Space Station and is set to fly its first crewed test mission in early 2019  will launch atop United Launch Alliance Atlas V rockets for the foreseeable future. These upcoming missions are part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program. To ensure that the capsule's special emergency egress system does in fact work, commercial crew astronauts participated in an escape test at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 41 in Florida on June 19. [Boeing CST-100 Starliner: Next-Generation Spaceship]

In the event of an emergency prior to liftoff on launch day, an emergency egress system would carry astronauts and ground crew more than 1,300 feet away from the crew access tower. A demonstration of the procedure was held at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 41 in Florida on June 19, 2018. (Image credit: Kim Shiflett/NASA/ Flickr

Photographers Kim Shiflett and Frank Michaux captured the scope of the test in captivating imagery for NASA's Kennedy Space Center. In an emergency, each person on board the commercial spacecraft would have to slide more than 1,300 feet (396 meters) to arrive at the safe area, according to photo descriptions provided by the space agency.

Astronauts participate in a Boeing/United Launch Alliance (ULA) emergency-egress system demonstration at Cape Canaveral in Florida on June 19, 2018. The Boeing CST-100 Starliner will launch on a ULA Atlas V rocket, carrying astronauts to the International Space Station. (Image credit: Kim Shiflett/NASA/ Flickr

United Launch Alliance partnered with the zip line company Terra-Nova to build the evacuation system. It's similar to the slide-wire baskets that the agency used for space shuttle crews, and it features large seats to accommodate pressurized flight suits. The seats are also colored bright orange to make them easier to see.

The goal is to get astronauts and launchpad crew off the crew access tower and down to the ground in 90 seconds. As many as 20 people can evacuate through the egress system.

Commercial Crew astronauts test out the Boeing/United Launch Alliance (ULA) emergency-egress system on June 19, 2018, at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 41 in Florida. The escape system will be in place when Boeing's CST-100 Starliner, placed atop a ULA Atlas V rocket, carrying astronauts to the International Space Station. (Image credit: Frank Michaux/NASA/ Flickr

This emergency run-through seems all the more important following Boeing's "hot-fire" test of Starliner's four launch-abort engines back in June, when a propellant leak occurred. (The engine that the tests were performed on was not damaged.)

"We are confident we identified the root cause, and [we] are implementing corrective actions now," said John Mulholland, vice president and program manager of Boeing's Commercial Crew Program, on Aug. 1, according to SpaceNews. The publication said that Mulholland did not specify what that root cause was but said that corrective actions will include slight design and operational changes.

NASA's mine-resistant ambush-protected vehicles, or MRAPs, will be used in the unlikely event of an emergency at the launchpad prior to liftoff. The vehicles were originally designed for military applications and offer protection for astronauts and ground crews if they need to get away from the launchpad in an emergency. The MRAPs are seen here during a Boeing/United Launch Alliance emergency-egress system demonstration at Cape Canaveral in Florida on June 19, 2018. (Image credit: Frank Michaux/NASA/ Flickr

Follow Doris Elin Salazar on Twitter @salazar_elin. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com.
Wondering how to capture the beautiful, ephemeral streaks of a meteor shower? Just in time for the Perseids, which peak this weekend (Aug. 11 to 13), here's a rundown by NASA of the best ways to photograph the phenomenon.

Skywatchers are looking forward to this year's Perseid meteor shower, which can be best viewed after 2 a.m. at your local time on Aug. 11 to 12 and Aug. 12 to 13. Because the moon is a slim crescent and sets early, the dark skies will spotlight the peak's 60 to 70 meteors per hour.

NASA's No. 1 tip: Get away from city lights and find somewhere dark! "Too much light and it will be hard for your eyes to see fainter meteors, plus your image will get flooded with the glow of light," NASA officials said on the agency's Tumblr page. "Turning down the brightness of the camera's LCD screen will help keep your eyes adjusted to the dark." [Perseid Meteor Shower 2018: When, Where & How to See It]

NASA also suggests using a tripod, because you need long exposures to capture a meteor's path across the sky. A heavier tripod can help reduce shaking, but you can also support a lighter tripod with sandbags to make it more stable or prop up your camera on something else if you don't have a tripod available.

When you're watching a meteor shower with the naked eye, it's best to lean back and look at the whole sky, and NASA's camera recommendation reflects that: Use a wide-angle lens. Meteors can appear all across the sky, and a wide-angle lens instead of a telelphoto lens means it's more likely to be in your field of view.

To keep the camera from wobbling, NASA also suggests using a self-timer or shutter release cable to start your shot rather than pressing the camera button yourself. It may also be possible to activate the camera with a mobile device, if your camera has Wi-Fi, officials added.

A 10-second exposure reveals a meteor from the 2016 Perseid meteor shower streaking through the sky above Washington, D.C. (Image credit: Joel Kowsky/NASA)

You should also be sure to manually focus your camera  autofocus will have trouble fixing on the night sky. NASA suggests taking test images of stars lasting a few seconds each and fine-tuning the focus based on how they look (fuzzy blobs mean you haven't focused correctly). Some cameras might have a zoomable electronic viewfinder or live-view option that lets it automatically zoom to a star and focus.

Meteors can appear all over the sky, but generally, they seem to emanate from one point, called the meteor shower's radiant. (For the Perseids, that source is the constellation Perseus.) Aiming your camera toward that point makes it more likely that you'll pick up meteors, NASA said.

Longer exposures are necessary to capture meteors, but if you leave the shutter open too long, you might catch the movement of the stars as Earth rotates. While that can make a cool photo too, if you'd like to avoid it, you can follow something that NASA calls the 500 rule. [Top 10 Perseid Meteor Shower Facts]

"Take 500 and divide it by the length in millimeters of your lens," NASA officials said in the post. "The resulting number is the length of time in seconds that you can keep your shutter open before seeing star trails. For example, if youre using a 20 mm lens, 25 seconds (500 divided by 20) is the longest you can set your exposure time before star trails start to show up in your images."

A 20-second exposure shows a meteor in the sky on a mountain ridge near Park City, Utah. Though it was taken during the Perseids, this meteor is probably not from that shower, because it doesn't originate from the right part of the sky. (Image credit: Bill Dunford/NASA)

After choosing your maximum exposure time and setting your shutter priority to that length, NASA said, you can try some test shots and let the camera calculate the other settings for a test shot. If it's too dark, adjust the aperture to a lower number and the ISO to a higher number for next time  adjusting settings one at a time will let you get the image you want.

"With your camera settings adjusted, capturing that perfect photo is just a matter of time and luck, NASA said. "The highest rate of meteors visible per hour is in the hours after midnight and before dawn. Set up your camera next to a lounge chair or a blanket to witness the wonder of a meteor shower for yourself  and, with any luck, you'll take home some envy-inducing shots, too!"

Editor's note: If you snap an awesome photo of Perseid meteors that you'd like to share with Space.com and our news partners for a potential story or gallery, send images and comments to spacephotos@space.com.

Email Sarah Lewin at slewin@space.com or follow her @SarahExplains. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com.
It's the year 2300. Extreme weather events such as building-flattening hurricanes, years-long droughts and wildfires are so common that they no longer make headlines. The last groups of humans left near the sizzling equator pack their bags and move toward the now densely populated poles.

This so-called "hothouse Earth," where global temperatures will be 7 to 9 degrees Fahrenheit (4 to 5 degrees Celsius) higher than preindustrial temperatures and sea levels will be 33 to 200 feet (10 to 60 meters) higher than today, is hard to imagine  but easy to fall into, said a new perspective article published today (Aug. 6) in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. [Top 9 Ways the World Could End]

In the article, a group of scientists argued that there is a threshold temperature above which natural feedback systems that currently keep the Earth cool will unravel. At that point, a cascade of climate events will thrust the planet into a "hothouse" state. Though the scientists don't know exactly what this threshold is, they said it could be as slight as 2 degrees C (around 4 degrees F) of warming above preindustrial levels.

Sound familiar? The 2 degrees C mark plays a big role in the Paris Agreement, the landmark 2016 agreement signed by 179 countries to combat climate change by reducing carbon emissions (the same one that the U.S. announced it would withdraw from last year). In that accord, countries agreed to work to keep global temperature rise well below 2 degrees C, and ideally below 1.5 degrees C, above preindustrial levels this century.

"This paper gives very strong scientific support  that we should avoid coming too close or even reaching 2 degrees Celsius warming," article co-author Johan Rockstrom, director of the Stockholm Resilience Center and a professor of water systems and global sustainability at Stockholm University in Sweden, told Live Science.

Changing Earth's rhythm

For the last million years, Earth has naturally cycled in and out of an ice age every 100,000 years or so. The planet left the last ice age around 12,000 years ago and is currently in an interglacial cycle called the Holocene epoch. In this cycle, Earth has natural systems that help keep it cool, even during the warmer interglacial periods.

But many scientists argue that due to the immense impact of humans on climate and the environment, the current geological age should be called the Anthropocene (from anthropogenic, which means originating with human activity). Temperatures are almost as hot as the maximum historical temperature during an interglacial cycle, Rockstrom said.

If carbon emissions continue unabated, the planet might leave the glacial-interglacial cycle and be thrust into a new age of the "hothouse Earth."

Today, we emit 40 billion tons of carbon dioxide a year from burning fossil fuels, Rockstrom said. But roughly half of those emissions are taken up and stored by the oceans, trees and soil, he said.

However, we are now seeing signs that we are pushing the system too far  cutting down too many trees, degrading too much soil, taking out too much fresh water and pumping too much carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, Rockstrom said.

Scientists fear that if we reach a certain temperature threshold, some of these natural processes will reverse and the planet "will become a self-heater,"Rockstrom said. That means, forests, soil and water will release the carbon they're storing.

"The moment the planet becomes a source of greenhouse gas emissions together with us humans, then as you can imagine, things are accelerating very fast in the wrong direction," he said. [Doom and Gloom: Top 10 Postapocalyptic Worlds]

Many tipping points

In their perspective paper, Rockstrom and his team corroborated existing literature on various natural feedback processes and concluded that many of them can serve as "tipping elements." When one tips, many of the others follow.

Nature has feedback mechanisms, such as a rainforest's capability to create its own humidity and rain, that keep ecosystems in equilibrium. If the rainforest is subject to increasing warming and deforestation, however, the mechanism slowly gets weaker, Rockstrom said.

"When it crosses a tipping point, the feedback mechanism changes direction," Rockstrom said, and the rainforest morphs from a moisture engine into a self-dryer. Eventually, the rainforest turns into a savanna and, in the process, releases carbon, he said.

This, in turn, can become part of a cascade that would influence other processes around the world, such as ocean circulation and El Nino events. Other tipping points include the thawing of permafrost, loss of Arctic summer sea ice and the loss of coral reefs.

A global call for help

The first big goal should be to completely stop carbon emissions by 2050, Rockstrom said. But that won't be enough, he added.

In order to stay away from these tipping points, the "whole world [needs to] embark on a major project to become sustainable across all sectors," he said.

That could be a challenge, as countries around the world grow increasingly nationalistic, he said. Instead of focusing on narrow national goals, the world should collectively work to reduce carbon emissions  for instance by creating investment funds that can support poorer nations that don't have as much capacity to reduce emissions as richer countries do, he said.

All of this means "that it's, scientifically speaking, completely unacceptable that a country like the U.S. leaves the Paris Agreement, because now more than ever, we need every country in the world to collectively decarbonize  in order to secure a stable planet," Rockstrom said.

The new paper is an opinion article that includes no new research but rather draws on the existing literature, Michael Mann, a distinguished professor of meteorology at Pennsylvania State University who was not part of the study, told Live Science in an email.

"That having been said, the authors do, in my view, make a credible case that we could, in the absence of aggressive near-term efforts to reduce carbon emissions, commit to truly dangerous and irreversible climate change in a matter of decades," Mann said.

Originally published on Live Science.
Directed and executive produced by Emmy winner Ben Stiller, ESCAPE AT DANNEMORA debuts on Sunday, November 18 at 10 p.m., and stars Academy Award winners Benicio del Toro and Patricia Arquette and Golden Globe nominee Paul Dano.The series is based on the stranger-than-fiction prison break in upstate New York in the summer of 2015 which spawned a statewide manhunt for two convicted murderers, aided in their escape by a married female prison employee who carried on months-long affairs with both men. Del Toro plays convicted murderer Richard Matt, an artistic yet intimidating force within the prison, who masterminds the escape. Arquette plays Tilly Mitchell, a working class wife and mother who supervises the prison tailor shop and becomes sexually involved with both men, ultimately agreeing to hide hacksaw blades in frozen hamburger meat to help them get out. Dano plays David Sweat, a convicted cop-killer who may have genuine feelings for Tilly and becomes a reluctant partner in Richard Matts plot. The cast also features Golden Globe and Emmy nominee Bonnie Hunt, acclaimed actor Eric Lange and Emmy nominee David Morse. ESCAPE AT DANNEMORA is written and executive produced by Brett Johnson (Mad Men) and Oscar nominee Michael Tolkin (The Player), who met while working as writers on RAY DONOVAN. In addition to Stiller, Johnson and Tolkin, Bryan Zuriff (Steve Jobs, RAY DONOVAN), three-time Academy Award nominee Michael De Luca (The Social Network, Fifty Shades of Grey) via Michael De Luca Productions, and Nicky Weinstock for Red Hour Productions serve as executive producers.

SHOWTIME has given a production order to ESCAPE AT DANNEMORA, a new eight-hour limited series starring Academy Award(R) winners Benicio del Toro (Traffic) and Patricia Arquette (Boyhood), and Golden Globe nominee Paul Dano (Love & Mercy, There Will Be Blood). Emmy(R) winner Ben Stiller will executive produce and direct all eight episodes. The limited series is based on the stranger-than-fiction account of a prison break in upstate New York in the summer of 2015, which spawned a massive manhunt for two convicted murderers who were aided in their escape by a married female prison employee with whom they both became sexually entangled. Production will begin later this year at the actual locations in upstate New York. ESCAPE AT DANNEMORA is the network's next high-profile limited series, on the heels of the launch of the new TWIN PEAKS, which generated a record number of streaming service signups for SHOWTIME. The announcement was made today by David Nevins, President and CEO, Showtime Networks Inc. Del Toro will play convicted murderer Richard Matt, an artistic yet intimidating force within the prison, who masterminds the escape. Arquette will play Tilly Mitchell, a working class, married woman who supervises the prison tailor shop and becomes sexually involved with both convicts, inducing her to assist them with their escape. Dano will play David Sweat, a convicted cop-killer who uses his good looks to seduce Tilly and becomes a reluctant partner in Richard Matt's plot.PRINCIPAL CAST INFORMATION: Benicio del Toro as Richard Matt Bonnie Hunt as Catherine Leahy Scott David Morse as Gene Palmer Eric Lange as Lyle Mitchell Jeremy Bobb as Dennis Lambert Michael Beasley as Murder Patricia Arquette as Tilly Mitchell Paul Dano as David SweatCREW INFORMATION: Ben Stiller as EP/DIR (Pilot) Brett Johnson as CRTR/EP Bryan Zuriff as EP Michael De Luca as EP Michael Tolkin as CRTR/EP Nicky Weinstock as EP




Thanks to Darthlocke4 for the heads up.



Per The New Year Times, it has been revealed that Jon Favreau's (Iron Man, The Jungle Book) live-action Star Wars series will cost "roughly $100 million for 10 episodes".



Star Wars is a big world, and Disneys new streaming service affords a wonderful opportunity to tell stories that stretch out over multiple chapters, Mr. Favreau said in an email.



Most series on the upcoming Disney streaming service "will cost $25 million to $35 million". Disney franchises like High School Musical and Monsters Inc are getting spinoff series for the service as well as Marvel-themed shows and likely, a new iteration of The Muppets. Star Wars: The Clone Wars was previously announced at SDCC to be returning to the streaming service.





To make the Disney-branded service as robust as possible, Disney will allow a lucrative licensing deal with Netflix to expire. Starting with Captain Marvel in March, all of the films that Walt Disney Studios releases in theaters will subsequently flow to the Disney streaming platform instead of to Netflix. (There are no current plans to move Marvel-themed television shows off Netflix, a Disney spokeswoman said.) Disney has also tried to buy back rights to old Star Wars films from Turner Broadcasting, Bloomberg reported last week.Programming from National Geographic, which is part of the Fox acquisition, will probably be offered on the service. Disney has not decided whether family films from the Fox library (Home Alone, Ice Age) will be included. Foxs rowdy animated shows, including The Simpsons, are expected to remain on Hulu.




Ruby Rose (Orange is the New Black, Pitch Perfect 3, xXx: Return of Xander Cage) has been cast to star as Batwoman, aka Kate Kane in The CW's Arrowverse crossover and possible standalone series per The Hollywood Reporter.





Armed with a passion for social justice and a flair for speaking her mind, Kate Kane soars onto the streets of Gotham as Batwoman, an out lesbian and highly trained street fighter primed to snuff out the failing citys criminal resurgence. But dont call her a hero yet. In a city desperate for a savior, Kate must overcome her own demons before embracing the call to be Gothams symbol of hope. Based on the characters from DC. Executive Producer/Writer: Caroline Dries Executive Producers: Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter, Geoff Johns Auspices: Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. TelevisionA unique and emerging talent quickly on the rise, Ruby Rose is an award-winning actress who challenges herself with each new role and continues to evolve with each project she takes on.Rose garnered the attention of audiences for her breakout role as a series regular on Netflixs hit show Orange Is the New Black. In June 2015, the actress made her debut in the third season of the show as Stella Carlin, an edgy inmate whose charisma catches the eye of Piper (Taylor Schilling). In 2016, Ruby won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series for her role on the show. In 2017 she was recently seen in a trio of actions films: Vin Diesels XXX: The Return of Xander Cage, the third installment in the extreme-spy franchise; opposite Milla Jovovich and Ali Larter, in Resident Evil; Final Chapter ; and in John Wick: Chapter Two, alongside Keanu Reeves, Common and Ian McShane, directed by Chad Stahelski and written by Derek Kolstad. She was also seen in Universals Pitch Perfect 3.On August 10th, she can be seen in the Warner Bros. action film The Meg based on Steve Altens 1997 novel Meg: A Novel of Deep Terror. The Meg is centered on an international underwater observation program, led by Chinese scientists, that comes under attack by an unknown danger. With its deep-sea submersible disabled and trapped at the bottom of the Mariana Trench. Roses additional acting credits include the indie film Around the Block in which she starred alongside Christina Ricci, which debuted at the Toronto Film Festival in September 2013. Ruby also appears in SheepnWolves, an animated feature, which tells the story of a magical land where a flock of sheep find their carefree days interrupted by a pack of wolves who move to a nearby ravine.In 2015 Rose also wrote, produced, and starred in the short film Break Free, a tribute to gender fluidity that became a viral hit, garnering more than 25 million views on YouTube.A multi-hyphenate, Roses talent also extends across fashion and music. In 2016 she became the face of Urban Decay Cosmetics and in 2017 became the face of Swarovski jewelry and Nike.Rose is a fervent supporter of many charities, including the causes closest to her heart, such as Anti Bullying, Women and Gay Rights, Animal Welfare and Youth Mental Health. Rose was most recently awarded with the Stephen F. Kolzak Award at the 2016 GLAAD Media Awards, which is presented to an LGBT media professional who has made a significant difference in promoting equality and acceptance.She currently resides in Los Angeles.
Boumerdes (Algeria), August 5, 2018 (SPS) - President of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), Brahim Ghali on Saturday in Boumerdes (50 km east of Algiers) called for the end of the Moroccan occupation in Western Sahara," affirming "his full readiness to cooperate" with the UN Secretary-General and his personal envoy in a view to completing Western Sahara decolonization process.



In his opening address at the 9th Polisario Front-SADR Officers' Summer University, the Sahrawi President advocated the immediate implementation of the International Security Council's Resolution 2414 calling for the resumption of direct negotiations between the two parties (Polisario Front - Morocco),- without preconditions and in good faith-, in order to put an end to Western Sahara conflict in accordance with the principles and the UN Charter and the African Union (AU).



Ghali also voiced his satisfaction with the "successive, direct and clear rulings of the CJEU, which have reinforced a series of decisions and recommendations issued by the UN and the AU that confirm that SADR and Morocco are two separate countries and that no agreement with Morocco can include Western Sahara territory and its territorial waters."



"The ECJ rulings clearly confirm that such practice constitutes a blatant violation of the exercise of the right to self-determination," stressed the Sharawi President, denouncing "the attempts of certain parties within the European Union (EU) to circumvent these decisions," which represents, according to Ghali, infringement of the European law, international law and international human rights law (IHL)."



The Sahrawi people, under the leadership of their only legitimate representative, the Polisario Front, "will employ all the legal means to counter these illegal practices used by the Moroccan occupation in the occupied territories, which promote the expansionist policies, aggression, violation of human rights and looting of natural resources, pointed out Ghali. (SPS)



062/SPS/APS
New York, August 6, 2018 (SPS) - United Nations Envoy for Western Sahara Horst Kohler will brief the Security Council on his recent visit to the region to relaunch negotiations between Polisario Front and Morocco.



Former Germany's president will inform the Security Council about his recent activities, according to the Council's monthly forecasts for August.



The meeting will be held behind closed doors, while the final statement will be read to the press by the Council's president for August, Karen Pierce (UK).



Wednesday's meeting would be Kohler's second briefing since his appointment as the UN Secretary General's personal envoy for Western Sahara.



In his first briefing in March, the UN envoy explained his mission, which consists in finding a solution to the conflict through the resumption of direct negotiations, at the standstill since 2012, between the two parties to the conflict, Morocco and Polisario Front. (SPS)



062/SPS/APS
Diageo reported 115 fewer jobs in the average size of its North American workforce in the past year, with a decline in the number of new hires it brought on but an accompanying drop in the number of people leaving the regions operations.

The London-based liquor and beer giant has its regional headquarters in Norwalk and 10 production facilities in North America, with Diageo brands including Don Julio, Guinness, Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff and Tanqueray. North America leads all regions in sales at 34 percent of Diageos global total over 12 months through this past June, with net sales for the region gaining 4 percent.

Globally, Diageo culled more than 500 jobs in the past year to give it 29,900 in all, including about 2,700 in North America. The 4 percent drop in Diageos North American job base was topped by a 5 percent reduction in its home base of Europe.

It marked the fourth straight year Diageo has reported a drop in its North American workforce numbers, which peaked above 3,400 jobs in 2014.

CEO Ivan Menezes has made efficiency a goal for Diageo during his five years in the top job, telling investors last month he is happy with the companys progress on that front.

The cultural and operational changes weve made to become a simpler business have enabled us to deliver more and reinvest in our business to fuel growth, Menezes said in July.

Diageo is fresh off the Friday opening of the $90 million Guinness Open Gate Brewery & Barrel House in Halethorpe, Md., outside Baltimore, which is to employ 200 people as a combination tourism magnet and production plant. Sixteen months earlier, the company had opened a new Bulleit whiskey plant in Kentucky, with construction proceeding this summer on a visitor center there.

Diageo currently lists 65 open jobs in the United States, about a third of them in Norwalk.

The job reductions in North America were mirrored in several other regions, with Asia the lone major geography where Diageo added headcount, at 3 percent growth on average as reported in the companys annual report filed this week with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

In the past year, the company brought on 375 new employees in North America, 60 fewer than in the fiscal year that ended in June 2017. In the recently concluded fiscal year, Diageo spent $700 million to acquire the Casamigos Tequila brand of George Clooney, with the startup reportedly having less than 60 employees.

Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman
Facebook's push to gain access to users' banking data and other sensitive financial information could help make online banking more efficient - or it could backfire among those skeptical that the world's biggest social network can reliably safeguard personal data.

The site has joined a growing race among big technology companies seeking private information once regarded as off-limits: users' checking-account balances, recent credit card transactions and other facts of their personal finances and everyday lives.

Facebook said this week that it had proposed data-sharing partnerships with banks and credit card companies that would allow users to access their personal account information from within the social network's messaging service, Facebook Messenger, as an alternative to speaking with customer service representatives or automated chatbots on the companies' banking or credit sites.

Facebook said the data would not be shared with marketers or used for ad-targeting purposes, and no major U.S. financial institutions have announced that they're interested in a joint arrangement. But a company representative said several unnamed banks and credit card companies have voiced interest in teaming up with the social network, even proposing their own potential deals.

"The idea is that messaging with a bank can be better than waiting on hold over the phone - and it's completely opt-in," Facebook spokeswoman Elisabeth Diana said. "We're not using this information beyond enabling these types of experiences - not for advertising or anything else. A critical part of these partnerships is keeping people's information safe and secure."

But Facebook's past scandals over data privacy have left industry and privacy experts wondering how the more than 1 billion Facebook Messenger users might react to the company wanting to link their social media profiles with their private finances and spending histories. Facebook said the banking information wouldn't be included in the vast stores of information the site uses to build people's personality profiles.

"It's the most intimate information about our personal behavior possible, perhaps even more intimate than how we comment on our friends' feeds," said Zachary Townsend, the former chief data officer of California and a partner at Deciens Capital, a venture capital fund that specializes in financial technology. "The idea that Facebook, which basically aggregates information to sell to third parties, could also add financial information to that mix seems uncomfortable, given their history."

Many of the tech world's major players have shown similar ambitions in tapping users' financial data, which could help companies lock in customer loyalty, help developers provide more sophisticated tools - and give advertisers lucrative clues into users' offline interests and buying intentions.

Apple and Google provide mobile-payment services that allow users to access financial information and pay for products with their phones. Amazon.com - whose founder, Jeff Bezos, owns The Washington Post - offers users a credit card issued by JPMorgan Chase. And Google last year announced a deal that would let it review and analyze roughly 70 percent of all credit and debit card transactions in the United States.

"What you purchase is the ultimate predictor of what you'll purchase in the future. It's an indication of your stage of life, and there's a lot that can be packaged up and targeted based off that," said Mike Herrick, an executive at Urban Airship, which works with companies on digital wallets and mobile engagement. "Everybody's mad at Facebook, but they're just one of many participants in this data ecosystem."

Facebook's pitch to the financial world comes months after it was found to have allowed the political consulting firm Cambridge Analytica to improperly access the data of 87 million people. The episode turned Facebook into a poster child for tech privacy abuses, sparking public outrage, congressional hearings and mounting concerns over how much the site knew and shared about its global audience.

The new proposal, first reported by the Wall Street Journal, helped the company's stock Monday climb more than 4 percent. Facebook last month lost more than $100 billion in market value during the steepest single-day trading plunge in Wall Street history.

Representatives from major banks said they talked often with Facebook about possible deals, and banks and credit card companies routinely advertise across the social network in hopes of reaching new customers for checking accounts or credit cards. But they also said they were stepping lightly because of possible customer concerns about data security and privacy.

A Citigroup spokesman said, "While we regularly have conversations about potential partnerships, safeguarding the security and privacy of our customers' data and providing customer choice are paramount in everything we do."

A U.S. Bank spokesman said the bank "has not shared any customer data or information with Facebook or any other platforms." A JPMorgan Chase spokesman said the company isn't "sharing our customers' off-platform transaction data with these platforms, and have had to say no to some things as a result." Wells Fargo said it is "not actively engaged in data-sharing conversations with Facebook."

Facebook already has smaller agreements with financial institutions, including PayPal and American Express, that allow users to do things such as review transaction receipts on Facebook Messenger. In March, Facebook launched a service that would allow Citibank customers in Singapore to ask a Messenger chatbot for their account balance, their recent transactions and credit card rewards.

While some parts of the financial system are heavily regulated, there are few rules about the transaction of account and spending histories, giving the companies wide leverage in how they use and share the data, said Deciens Capital's Townsend.

But financial institutions today remain largely split over how much of their customers' data they're willing to share. "Banks are trying to be more like tech companies, and some tech companies are trying to be more like banks," Townsend said.
The Shakespeare Requirement

By Julie Schumacher

Doubleday. 320 pp. $25.95

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For many years, academic comedies have looked as fresh as an old tweed jacket. I'm not complaining. I owe my whole career to academic comedies. My first job was as an English professor at a small Midwestern college, which is essentially the plot of every academic comedy ever written. I was highly unqualified, desperately anxious and fancied myself a kind of teetotaling Lucky Jim. Desperate to escape the rising tide of five-paragraph essays about the green light at the end of Daisy's dock, I eventually struck upon the ridiculous idea of reviewing books. And the first review I ever sold was on Richard Russo's "Straight Man," now a 20-year-old classic of the academic comedy genre.

We former English majors could have happily gone on reading those books till the end of time, but in 2014, Julie Schumacher made that well-worn literary garment look downright hip again. With "Dear Committee Members," she became the first woman to win the Thurber Prize for American Humor. Her book included all the requisite elements - second-rate college, inane administration, exasperated English professor - but the entire novel was a series of recommendation letters written by Jason Fitger, a highly vexed and acerbic teacher. That epistolary form sounds impossibly restrictive, but Fitger's letters to colleagues, agents, friends and managers gradually created a whole world and a bright, thwarted man trying to survive within it.

School won't start for another month, but Fitger is now back in a sequel called "The Shakespeare Requirement," which gave me a chance to call up Schumacher at her home in St. Paul, Minn., and fawn like a first-semester freshman. Originally, she had no plans to continue the story of Fitger's travails at Payne University. "But 'Dear Committee Members' was such a slim little thing," she says. "The form was so narrow that I didn't get a chance to go play with Fitger the way I wanted to. So after about a year, I found myself thinking, 'What would it be like for him to chair the department?' "

"The Shakespeare Requirement" provides the hilarious answer to that question.

The epistolary structure of her previous novel is gone - this is a straight narrative delivered with acrid wit- but Fitger is still here at its center, just as irritated and harried as ever. Against his will, he's been named chair of the ungovernable English department, "a funhouse of dysfunctional characters." (One is obsessed with miniature donkeys; another imitates Emily Bronte; a third wears a 15-pound necklace made of roofing nails.) They are all Olympians in the sport of passive aggression.

The plot is light on incident, high on frustration: To continue the English department's paltry funding, Fitger must somehow corral his colleagues into composing a unanimous Statement of Vision, one of those vacuous documents that deans around the world devise to drive professors mad. Fitger just wants to get a working computer, have the heat turned on in the building and fix whatever's leaking in the men's room, but his ancient colleague Professor Cassovan insists that the department's Statement of Vision include a requirement that every English major take a course in Shakespeare. Naturally, the feminist professor objects, the modernist professor balks, etc.As Shakespeare would say, "So quick bright things come to confusion."

Schumacher notes that it's no wonder satirists return again and again to the campus setting to find fodder for their wit. "The academy is filled with eccentric people," she says, "because they spend years studying some obscure thing and then you toss them into a committee and say, 'Everybody get along.' That in itself is made for comedy. It's a weird little world."

Indeed, anyone who's taught will recognize these characters, tightly bound in their arcane knowledge and rancid grievances. As a professor of creative writing at the University of Minnesota, Schumacher must surely run the risk of pricking her colleagues with her sendups of academic pomposity, but she insists that she consciously veered away from anyone she knows.

"I swear I was not making use of any real people!" she says with a laugh. "The closest I came to using any real people is (BEGIN ITAL)me(END ITAL)- as Fitger. He's like an evil little alter ego, which is part of what made him so satisfying."

Fitger is delightfully acerbic and self-destructive in these pages, raging against the dean ("the human windsock") and especially his arch-nemesis, Dr. Roland Gladwell, chair of the lavishly funded economics department. Bolstered by his performance metrics and his outside donors, Gladwell is determined to eradicate the feeble English department that persists like some tenacious mold in the basement of the Econ building.

That clash of cultures - mammon vs. art - burns through this novel, which provides a wry commentary on the plight of the arts in our mercantile era. Desperate for enrollment, the college must cater ever more cravenly to its lazy, politically correct students who grow increasingly allergic to emotional triggers - and hard work. As Fitger struggles to organize his department colleagues, fend off the rapacious economists and stall the spineless administrators, he also endures a host of personal crises, starting with the fact that his writing career is effectively moribund and he's still in love with his ex-wife ... who's dating the dean.

Enraged by the deprivations of his underfunded department and the tedious paperwork of being its chairman, Fitger vacillates between ineffective wheedling and razor-edged sarcasm. "Some people consider him irredeemable," Schumacher says, "but I see him as a kind of Quixotic figure. He's entirely lacking in diplomatic skills, but in his strange heart he means well."

He does mean well, and eventually he even manages to do well. And along the way, we get a very funny lesson on the frustrations and machinations of academic life.

Enrollment is now open. Don't skip this class.
STAMFORD  A traveling troupe of anti-circumcision activists  intactivists as they call themselves  made their first stop to the Lock City on a 21-city Northeast tour Tuesday morning.

They promptly got a Stamford welcome.

Im circumcised and I love it, yelled a man pumping his fists as he rolled through Tresser and Washington boulevards in his car.

Im sorry for your loss, replied a woman dressed in the standard group uniform of shirts, pants and cowboy hats  all white, except for the red-paint-splattered crotch that is the the calling card of the Bloodstained Men and Their Friends.

The nonprofit group, while grotesquely marked, had a less sinister message. They advocate that circumcision is akin to any other body modification including tattoos and piercings.

Such procedures should only be done on consenting adults, not infants, they say.

There is no need for corrective surgery for perfectly healthy boys, said Harry Guiremand, the groups road spokesman, and often the driver of the large SUV that takes the bloodied band from city to city.

Amputation should be a last resort, he said. And its a basic human rights issue.

The group was in the Hartford area Monday, where local families joined the protest.

In Stamford, only one Greenwich woman briefly joined the group during its five-hour visit  which included a trip to see the giant Marilyn Monroe statue on display in Latham Park.

Brian Brown, of Ellington, who runs Intact Connecticut, another grassroots group, said much of the activism on the issue is near him on eastern side of the state.

He tried, he said, to reach out to some liberal groups in Fairfield County, but found little interest. The taboo topic is so divisive that groups you would think would also be against cutting babies dont sign on.

Some city residents seemed keen to the groups message, honking and waving them over for more information. But others were more interested in the oddity of it all.

Its not everyday a red-crotched ensemble walks around City Hall with signs reading Peace, Love, Foreskin and Its not your mothers penis.

Circumcision, which has roots in ancient civilizations and is enshrined in some holy scriptures  thus generally required by those in Islamic and Jewish faiths  is having something of a falling out in other countries, but remains prevalent in the U.S.

Guiremand said the group has many Jewish members, but generally circumvents the religious undertones of banning the ritual. There are movements within the Jewish faith to recast the ritual bris for young boys into a naming ceremony, he said.

Laurie Evans, a Westchester-based intactivist, who is Jewish, said her message is starting to get out, but its hard to change minds when up against more than 5,000 years of history.

How do you interrupt customs? she said.

It is still popular in the United States, studies show, with some 71 percent of boys getting the snip.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has said the benefits of the procedure outweigh the risks, but doesnt recommend it for all newborns, leaving the decision to parents.

The Mayo Clinic advises that the procedure could make for easier hygiene, a decreased risk of urinary tract infections, a decreased risk of sexually transmitted infections and the potential prevention of other problems, including a lower risk of penis cancer.

barry.lytton@stamfordadvocate.com; 203-964-2263; @bglytton
Nigeria's state security police boss was fired hours after armed security agents temporarily blocked the entrance to the National Assembly, amid heightening political tensions ahead of general elections in February.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who's acting head of state while President Muhammadu Buhari is on holiday in the U.K., ordered the dismissal of State Security Service Director General Lawal Musa Daura "with immediate effect," according to a statement, which gave no explanation. His ouster capped a day of drama in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, that started with secret police officers wearing masks and their standard black uniforms turning away legislators, reporters and staff as they tried to enter the National Assembly complex.

Later, lawmakers were allowed in one by one, while reporters and staff were still kept outside. When asked about the unusual deployment, a member of the National Assembly's regular security team said it was the result of orders from superiors.

"After some pushing and shoving we were allowed in," Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, told reporters at the gates.

The secret police officers left the site shortly after their chief was fired.

Africa's top oil producer has seen political turmoil in the past weeks. Dozens of legislators, including Senate President Bukola Saraki and several governors, walked out of the ruling All Progressives Congress to join the ranks of a swelling opposition. Buhari is seeking re-election next year.

While the Senate and the House of Representatives are on recess and meant to resume on Sept. 25, the leadership of both chambers was due to gather Tuesday "to consider some national issues," and to meet officials from the national electoral commission, according to an aide to Saraki, Bamikole Omisore. Both meetings were cancelled.

"A meeting cannot be held in this kind of atmosphere," Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Yusuf Lasun told reporters. "It's unfortunate that this is happening because when the parliament is under siege, democracy is under siege."

The scenes at the National Assembly occurred amid increasing speculation that the ruling party wants to impeach Saraki as the Senate president.

"Whether they succeed in removing Saraki or not, it is going to be a major issue because the National Assembly legally adjourned sitting, you cannot reconvene without the authority that adjourned it," Freedom Onuoha, a political science lecturer at the University of Nigeria in the southeastern town of Nsukka, said by phone. "'The law still recognizes Saraki as the Senate president."

A standoff between Buhari and Saraki and other lawmakers has been largely responsible for the stalemate between the executive and legislature that's hobbled the government for the past few years.

A presidential adviser, Ita Enang, said the government was at risk of shutting down unless lawmakers returned earlier from their current break to pass a supplementary budget, ThisDay newspaper reported Tuesday.

Buhari on July 17 asked lawmakers to reallocate 229 billion naira ($633 million) in a supplementary budget, less than a month after he signed 2018's spending plan into law.

The APC distanced itself from the trouble at the Parliament.

"The party is monitoring the developments in the National Assembly like every other concerned Nigerian and stakeholder," its acting spokesman Yekini Nabena said in an emailed statement. He denied APC chairman Adams Oshiomhole had anything to do with the events.
In the spring of 2015, Brett Kavanaugh returned to his alma mater in New Haven, Connecticut, to address the Black Law Students Association. The student who introduced him said Kavanaugh was concerned that African Americans and other minorities were being shut out of coveted clerkships with federal judges like him.

Kavanaugh concluded the session by handing out his email address and phone number and encouraging the Yale students to apply. Indeed, two of Kavanaugh's four law clerks this year were African-American students he met during annual visits to Yale, and Kavanaugh and his supporters have touted his record of hiring young lawyers from diverse backgrounds to work with him at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

"It was important to him that everyone have access," recalled Rakim Brooks, who introduced the judge that day and completed a year-long clerkship with him this summer just as President Donald Trump announced Kavanaugh's nomination to the Supreme Court.

Yet even as Kavanaugh has taken steps to open up an elite, historically white and male network, civil rights advocates cite legal opinions, interviews and writings that suggest he would weaken broad legal protections for minorities. Interest groups on both sides say Kavanaugh could be the vote conservatives have been looking for to speed up the demise of affirmative action in college admissions.

Civil rights advocates and Democratic lawmakers point in particular to an opinion he wrote in 2012 delaying but ultimately allowing voter identification requirements in South Carolina that were opposed by the Justice Department, and to his description in 1999, when he was a lawyer in private practice, of a government program for Native Hawaiians as a "naked racial-spoils system." In that case, embracing the language of Justice Antonin Scalia, Kavanaugh wrote in a newspaper column that the Supreme Court would eventually, inevitably find that "in the eyes of government, we are just one race."

Vanita Gupta, president of the Leadership Conference for Civil and Human Rights, said, "That kind of statement really signals that he will bring an anti-civil-rights agenda to the Supreme Court and fails to recognize the current reality of being a person of color in this country and the history of discrimination."

"Kavanaugh's worldview is not demonstrated by the fact that he's appeared before black law students and hired diverse clerks," she said, noting that he has also appeared nearly 50 times before chapters of the Federalist Society, the conservative legal group that has helped shape Trump's list of potential Supreme Court nominees, including Kavanaugh.

The stakes are high because the man Kavanaugh would replace, Justice Anthony Kennedy, cast the deciding vote on a key affirmative action case two years ago. He joined the court's liberal justices to uphold the University of Texas' limited use of race as a factor in admissions. In an earlier case involving the racial makeup of public school districts, Kennedy declined to join conservatives in saying race could not be considered. These issues seem certain to return to the Supreme Court because admissions practices at Harvard and the University of North Carolina are already facing legal challenges.

During his 12 years on the bench, few cases have required Kavanaugh to take positions on matters directly involving race. Speculation about how he would approach these types of cases is based in part on his work as a lawyer at Kirkland & Ellis. There, Kavanaugh teamed up with conservative lawyer Robert Bork and the Center for Equal Opportunity, a conservative think tank, in arguing that it was unconstitutional to bar people who were not Native Hawaiians from voting for trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

While working on that case, Kavanaugh in a 1999 Wall Street Journal column urged the court to adhere to the constitutional principle that, he wrote, was most clearly articulated by Scalia in an earlier case involving racial preferences in hiring: "Under our Constitution there can be no such thing as either a creditor or a debtor race. . . . In the eyes of government, we are just one race here."

The Supreme Court struck down the race-based voting qualification in a 7-to-2 decision written by Kennedy.

Roger Clegg of the Center for Equal Opportunity, who joined with Kavanaugh and Bork to submit an amicus brief in that case, said he suspects that Kavanaugh as a justice would "be hospitable to the kinds of arguments he was making."

"Our hope is that he is correct in his prediction that the government will get out of the business of playing favorites on the basis of race and ethnicity, and that the court will recognize that it's plainly prohibited."

Clegg stressed that the way to end discrimination is for the government to stop categorizing Americans by race, a practice that he said is unnecessary in a multiethnic, multiracial society.

Still, Clegg said his expectations for Kavanaugh are tempered somewhat because he was acting then as a private attorney, not as a judge.

Civil rights advocates, however, say Kavanaugh's rhetoric about a "racial-spoils system" and his embrace of Scalia's "one race" prediction leave little room for surprise when it comes to affirmative action.

"He's not someone for whom you have to guess about," said Thomas Saenz, president and general counsel of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund. Saenz said he views Kavanaugh's statements as particularly troubling at a time when white-supremacist groups and anti-immigrant sentiment are on the rise.

Justin Driver, a University of Chicago law professor , cautioned that affirmative action has been administered "last rites many times," only to be saved by an improbable list of conservative justices. But he said that Kavanaugh's language "signals great hostility to racial classifications."

In a 2003 decision upholding the University of Michigan Law School admissions policy, Justice Sandra Day O'Connor wrote, "We expect that 25 years from now, the use of racial preferences will no longer be necessary to further the interest approved today."

"We're 10 years away from 2028," said Driver, who clerked for O'Connor. If Kavanaugh joins the court, "it may well not last another 10 years."

Through his hiring and in his public statements, Kavanaugh has made clear that the topic of racial discrimination is often on his mind. When he was introduced as Trump's nominee at the White House in June, one of the first things he mentioned was his mother's work as a public high school teacher in Washington in predominantly African-American schools.

"Her example taught me the importance of equality for all Americans," Kavanaugh said.

In response to questions from the Senate Judiciary Committee, Kavanaugh listed what he considered his 10 most important decisions. He identified nine that went to the high court and a 10th involving a Fannie Mae employee who was fired shortly after complaining about an executive's use of a racial slur to refer to him. Kavanaugh sided with the employee and wrote a separate opinion to which he called attention in his questionnaire.

"Calling someone the n-word, even once, creates a hostile work environment," he wrote. "My opinion explained: 'No other word in the English language so powerfully or instantly calls to mind our country's long and brutal struggle to overcome racism and discrimination against African-Americans.' "

In the 2012 case reviewing a South Carolina voter identification law, Kavanaugh acknowledged concerns from the Justice Department and civil rights groups about the disproportionate impact on black voters, who were less likely to have an acceptable photo ID, according to court filings.

"Racial insensitivity, racial bias, and indeed outright racism are still problems throughout the United States as of 2012," Kavanaugh wrote. ". . . The long march for equality for African-Americans is not finished."

Kavanaugh joined with two other judges to delay for one year implementation of the voter-ID requirement. But their unanimous decision cleared the law to take effect after the 2012 election.

"The rhetoric is a lot less significant than the ruling itself," said Todd Cox, director of policy at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. "That is the thing that has the impact on real people's lives."

Civil rights advocates say it is telling that Kavanaugh did not join the other judges - Colleen Kollar-Kotelly, a Clinton nominee, and John Bates, a George W. Bush nominee - in a separate opinion in which they noted the "vital function" of the Voting Rights Act provision that required federal oversight of election laws in states with a history of discriminatory practices.

The following year, the Supreme Court invalidated that provision, known as Section 5.

Throughout his tenure on the bench in Washington, D.C., Kavanaugh has returned six times to Yale to speak to the black law students' group. Of the 48 clerks he has hired, 13 are minorities. Nine of the 13 have gone on to Supreme Court clerkships, according to statistics compiled by his former clerks and first reported by the National Law Journal.

Rakim Brooks credits Kavanaugh for his efforts to diversify the elite clerkship track. He signed a letter submitted this month to the Senate from the judge's former clerks that praises Kavanaugh as a mentor, friend, intellect and highly qualified nominee.

But Brooks, who grew up in public housing in East Harlem and was the first in his family to attend college, is concerned about the future of civil rights. His feelings about the nomination fight are complicated.

He said his respect and admiration for the judge don't "mean people shouldn't fight and challenge Judge Kavanaugh's nomination if they disagree. I think they should."

"There was no one that President Trump was going to appoint who was likely to advance the civil rights agenda beyond where Justice Kennedy is leaving it," Brooks said.

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The Washington Post's Robert Barnes contributed to this report.
L ondon may have dragged down InterContinental Hotels Groups UK first-half performance, but it is just a blip, the owner of the Crowne Plaza chain insisted on Tuesday, as it cheered international growth.

The FTSE 100 firm behind more than 5400 hotels, revealed revenue per room dropped 1.4% in the capital in the six months to June. The figure for Britain was down 0.2%.

Finance chief Paul Edgecliffe-Johnson said shareholders should not be worried, and predicted a better second half.

He added: The reason for the fall is because we were never going to match the 9% London growth seen in the first half of 2017. That period benefited from a massive influx of tourists in town, attracted by the weaker pound. The market has now returned to more normal levels.

His comments came as IHG posted a 3.7% rise in group revenue per room. Total revenues climbed 7.6% to $2.1 billion (1.6 billion).

The hotels operator, led by Keith Barr, pointed to strong growth in China, and improved performances in the US and continental Europe.

It saw pre-tax profits decrease to $303 million from $357 million, partly due to exceptional costs.

It opened 22,000 new rooms during the period. Its growth plan includes rolling out its lower-priced US brand avid globally, and buying luxury boutiques operators.

The company raised its interim dividend by 10% to 36.3 cents.
I MAGINE if Ivan Menezes stood up in front of an audience and confessed to a drink problem. The chief executive of global liquor giant Diageo, whose favourite tipple is incidentally Johnnie Walker black label with ice and soda, would send tremors through his industry, which has spent 15 years promoting responsible consumption.

It is not likely to happen. Menezes comes across as a moderate drinker whose mantra is that his Guinness-to-Gordons empire can prosper if consumers drink better, not more. That means trading up to premium brands rather than bulk buying own-label vodka.

Yet the Apple supremo Tim Cook did something similar at his developer conference in California in June. After tracking data of his mobile phone usage, Cook admitted he was spending more time than he should on his handset.

It was a watershed moment. For the first time, the technology industry that within a decade has transformed the way we live was suggesting less screen time may be a good thing. Consumers are loathe to admit it, but the dopamine hits of social media  every ping and flash that make us pick up our phone dozens of times an hour  have the addictive hallmarks of nicotine. Imagine how long it has taken Silicon Valley to get to grips with that reality.

This was not quite Apples Gerald Ratner moment. Cook was not declaiming his iPhone as total crap, merely that usage should be controlled somehow, with the aid of new time-limit settings for some apps and hidden notifications. So seductive is reaching for the modern smartphone, it is no surprise that its Nokia antecedent was known for its candy-bar shape.

It is a moment of clarity that comes for many consumer industries, egged on by public pressure and regulatory threat. Soft-drinks makers chose to reduce sugar instead of facing lower sales that a tax might bring.

A couple of years ago the boss of Philip Morris International explained to me his hope that the Marlboro giant would stop selling cigarettes in his lifetime. In its place, he is marketing supposedly safer heat-not-burn gadgets. The tobacco industry has left it late to go down the responsible route. It is more than two decades since firms conceded that smoking causes lung cancer and emphysema and spent billions settling legal claims. With shares in Big Tobacco down sharply this year, investors are betting that future growth will be stubbed out.

The technology sector is a long way from the threat of extinction. One reason is it is still remarkably young and finding its way. Consider it against the motor industry. In the transition from horse-drawn to horse-powered, speed limits were abolished completely. The 70 miles per hour upper limit for motorway drivers was made permanent in 1967 and, amazing to think now, wearing rear seat belts only became compulsory in 1991.

Metering or monitoring web access sounds like a throwback to the dial-up connections of the 1990s. Consumers have grown accustomed to all-you-can-eat, always-on technology. The tech giants say they are a liberal force for good. Yet there are obvious dangers.

Technology investor Saul Klein, whose LocalGlobe fund has backed start-ups including Transferwise and Improbable, likens giving a child a smartphone to throwing the car keys to someone who has not taken driving lessons. Efforts to regulate Big Tech can be clunky and slow.

However, the European Unions competition commissioner Margrethe Vestager has not been deterred, as her recent $5 billion fine for Google owner Alphabet for abuse of the dominance of its Android mobile operating system shows.

The Silicon Valley giants are programmed to seek forgiveness, not permission. Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has learnt to say sorry in many different ways. Sometimes he even sounds convincing.

Apples move is a qualified one. Activist investors called on it to help parents restrict their childrens iPhone access and look into the effects of heavy screen usage. And Cook believes it is not his devices that are addictive, but maybe the apps they carry.
I f you thought that the ousting of TP Icap boss John Phizackerley last month was brutal, wait until you hear what the chairman has to say about it.

Having run the truck over the chief executive who pulled off its transformational 1.3 billion takeover of Icaps voice broking division, today Rupert Robson slammed it into reverse and rolled it over him again.

Phiz had, according to Robson, displayed an increasing detachment from reality in his monthly meetings with the board.

The CEO, he declared, had a fixation on meeting his promised cost savings targets of 100 million a year from integrating the merger of Tullett Prebon and Icaps voice broking operations.

This came, Robson says, despite our bottom-up analysis that ticking a box in the short term was going to damage the business for the medium term.

He accused the old boss of being guilty of a failure to address the issues of Mifid II, Brexit, IT security, saying he had not tackled in detail the investment to create growth in the future.

The decision had to be taken to oust him and cut the savings plan to a more realistic 75 million a year, Robson declared.

Today, TP Icap trumpeted that it was on track to do that; well, one would hope so.

The trouble is, some out there still think the 100 million savings target was entirely achievable, and that the new plan is therefore depriving shareholders of tens of millions of pounds a year in profit.

In fact, there have apparently been consultancy firms reports commissioned by the firm talking of even bigger savings.

The result of all this is that the share price  which collapsed 31% on the day of the ousting and targets revision  remains stuck down there.

The shares even fell further today despite the numbers showing underlying profits and margins progressing well.

Robson, who has been in the chair for 12 years, is leaving at the end of the year, meaning shareholders have to take a leap of faith on a new CEO, new FD and new chairman.

Nico Breteau, the replacement chief executive, also stuck the boot into his predecessor today, saying that he had lost track of the numbers, at a time when the companys divisional chiefs were squealing that they needed more investment, not further cuts.

But the Frenchman came across well. Having run the worlds largest futures broker  New Edge  before it was sold to SocGen, Breteau is not green in this industry, and his new, lower savings target will doubtless make him more popular among his managers.
T he summer for political moderates on both sides of the Atlantic is an uneasy one. Labour is being torn further apart by the Corbyn leaderships refusal to acknowledge, let alone combat, the partys undertow of anti-Semitism . Meanwhile, the immersion of the Conservative Party in Brexit is all-consuming. As one recently appointed senior minister told me on encountering a major, costly policy failure in his department, there are so many days to bury bad news  an echo of the cynical line used by a Labour spin doctor of the 9/11 attacks.

Amazingly, even columnists get bored by writing about Brexit and the dafter shores of Corbynism by August. Yet since I went on holiday to a vacation stronghold of senior Democrats off the east coast of the US, I have found the conversation in the approach to autumn mid-term elections eerily similar.

Fury and opprobrium are directed at the might of the Trump machine and its worrying power of disinformation. But wiser Democrats are starting to realise that anger, mockery and bafflement about how the voters were duped will not redress matters.

The question preoccupying Democrat strategists is how to embrace the kind of candidates who are close in outlook to Bernie Sanders (and thus to Corbynism), in terms of identifying themselves as socialists rather than centrists. Enthusiasm for Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a candidate on the Left who unseated the expected winner of her primary race in New York, has led to a surge of young candidates in southern states running against established Democrat positions.

What was once the Hillary election machine has rebooted itself as an organisation bent on bringing a new generation of candidates to the fore.

Talking to one senior staffer, its clear that the enthusiasm American liberals have for new rafts of more racially diverse and female candidates, who they hope will sweep the party back to prominence in the elections in November, is not universally shared.

New wave: Democrats are pinning their hopes on the likes of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez / EPA

Americas centre-Left is thus divided between those relying on recruiting voters by identity or background and those who fear it distracts from a broader anti-populist coalition.

Identity politics in moderation certainly has benefits for Trumps opponents  the power of campaigning by groups insulted by the President is a motivating force. But foregrounding the ethnicity of candidates, as opposed to their broader priorities, should be done with caution. If too prominent it can drown out the most valuable lesson of liberalism  that societies fare best when they aim to move forward as one, rather than in class or ethnic niches.

A major Democrat donor frets that one of the biggest dangers for progressives is we get hung up on race, something we accused the Right of doing in a bad way. By coincidence, Boris Johnson wielded his dog whistle this week in an article that was ostensibly about his disapproval of burka-wearing women but which sounded more hostile to Muslim culture than is helpful in the argument about how much segregation of Muslim women should be uncritically tolerated.

Trumpism is one of Americas least welcome exports. But opponents of the Presidents worldview need to beware of assuming that there is no talent in the way he communicates with and motivates voters. Ive met more Democrats this year than in the immediate aftermath of his election who acknowledge that his ability to market a thin offer with chutzpah is impressive. They know that directness, even crudeness, is a challenge to the we-know-better tone that too many moderates adopt. You do not have to dwell long around the Brexit debate to hear the equivalent of this in Britain.

Directness, even crudeness, is a challenge to the we-know-better tone that too many moderates adopt

A burgeoning economy has bolstered Trump and is helping him evade the charge that his economic nationalism is a curse. It is also a challenge for his enemies as they have to acknowledge US jobs growth and healthy economic figures. A bad attack line is this would have happened anyway  voters will take economic progress wherever they find it.

A worse one is to say it will all end in tears  which it may do if an overheated economy cools down sharply. But as my Democrat friend put it, Sounding like you want bad stuff to happen because Trump is in charge does us no favours. Similarly, you can oppose Brexit without indulging the undertone of Eliza Doolittle in a strop with Henry Higgins: Youll be sorry but your tears will be too late.

Both countries electorates have concerns about immigration. More pragmatic Labour sorts, ranging from Yvette Cooper to Chuka Umunna, have referred to the need to make more honest arguments about public attitudes towards immigration. The flipside is that electorates do worry about what they perceive as a lack of control.

That is why Theresa May clings to the need to have the right to constrain some freedom of movement. If she fails I doubt that the winners will be proponents of open borders. More probably it will provide the elixir of revival for Ukips and Ukip-lite Tories  the space Boris is now seeking to occupy.

In some ways the economics of Trumpism has disturbing echoes on the Left as well as the Right of UK politics. It is focused on the promise of propping up jobs that technology and automation will erode, rather than putting effort into preparing the next generation of workers for a radically changed job market. The promise that it will yield fairer, more prosperous societies is false but seductive.

So a re-booted centrism will need a renewed determination to challenge monopolies along with an upbeat message. It will also need to ditch self-pity. Whatever turns out to combat populism best, thats the trait with the least chance of curing our common ills.
L ast summer, as a new MP, I watched the news about knife crime and youth violence with dread. What was happening in my constituency in Croydon wasnt unique, it was clear this would soon be a nationwide epidemic.

We set up a cross-party campaign to raise awareness in Parliament and worked with groups such as the Youth Violence Commission to push for a new approach focused on public health.

Few would deny that violence, in particular knife crime, is now at epidemic levels. The Evening Standard was right to throw its support behind the public-health model last month, calling for a Violence Reduction Unit to work across sectors and departments  and the 400,000 Save London Lives fund is a huge commitment.

Public-health model might sound like jargon but its a tried and tested approach. Violent crime halved across Scotland after it was implemented.

Violence is preventable. It has all the characteristics of a contagious disease  we know violence breeds violence. So we need to tackle the problem at source while immunising future generations against it.

Sarah Jones, MP for Croydon Central / Creative Commons

I want to see a Violence Reduction Unit focused on four pillars of public health. First, we need to bolster the police. Its simple: if we look at violence as a contagion, the first stage is to interrupt the transmission. That means police officers on our streets, engaging with communities. The police admit they cant solve the problem alone but its absurd for the Government to argue that police cuts have had no impact.

The second pillar is education  an early-years and school system geared towards preventing violence. There is a shocking number of exclusions which leave children isolated and unsupported. Proper Personal, Social and Health Education teaching should be a requirement and we should embed mental-health professionals into schools and pupil referral units.

Third, we need the health sector to help immunise society against future violence. We should have co-ordinated teams of youth workers operating inside all major trauma centres, working with injured young people to break the cycle of violence. Better information sharing and advanced big-data analysis will be central to identifying the roots of violence and tackling them.

Finally, as the Standard rightly argues, we need to empower our communities. As Labour committed to earlier this week, we need to make youth services statutory, with a requirement for amenities such as youth centres in the same way as there is for libraries.

We need full commitment at a national, regional and community level to make this work. Its a big challenge, but with enough people pulling in the same direction we can turn things around.
A brilliant artwork can spark a child's imagination and keep them inspired for many years to come - and London is no let down on that front.

Not to mention that youve probably run through three bottles of Factor 50 already by keeping the young ones entertained outdoors this summer holiday. So why not take it inside?

Londons (temperature controlled) gallery spaces make great places for keeping children of any age entertained, while surreptitiously keeping their brains ticking over during the six week break.

These are the famous, weird and wonderful artworks all children should see this summer (and what the kids need to know about them too).

Vincent Van Gogh, Sunflowers, 1888, National Gallery

Lets start off with a classic, because everyone loves a bit of celeb-spotting. Vincent Van Gogh had a revolutionary eye for colour, with his fascination with the colour yellow peaking in the summer of 1888, when he painted multiple pictures of yellow sunflowers in a yellow pot, on a yellow table in his yellow house.

Things to talk about: How many different shades of yellow can you see in the painting? How does yellow make you feel?

Hans Holbein the Younger, The Ambassadors, 1533, National Gallery

The National Gallery, London

This peculiar painting is by Hans Holbein, a favourite artist of Henry VIII. It shows a politician and a bishop posed together, with a selection of mysterious objects placed on a table between them, supposedly to give clues about what they have been talking about. The weirdest part of this painting is found on the floor. Get the kids to the right hand side of the painting, and the grey smudge morphs into a skull before their eyes.

Things to talk about: What do you think all the objects are? Why do you think he painted the skull like that?

Marcel Duchamp, Fountain, 1917, replica 1964, Tate Modern

PA Archive/PA Images

Does toilet humour tickle your kids funny bone? Then take them to see this work by Surrealist artist Marcel Duchamp  he called it Fountain but its made of a urinal tipped on its side and signed by the artist. It was made 100 years ago and was the first time an artist had ever taken an object from the outside world, put it in a gallery and called it art.

Things to talk about: This object looks different on its side  can you tell what it is? Is this art or is it just a toilet?

Georges Seurat, Bathers at Asnieres, 1884, National Gallery

The National Gallery, London

When you see this huge 3m wide painting from across the room, it looks like a clear picture of people swimming in a river. But when you get up really close to this work by Georges Seurat, you can see that the painting is very blurry, and made up of very obvious brushstrokes of paint. Seurat would late get even more extreme and use only coloured dots to make his pictures  paintings that use this technique can also be seen in the same room.

Things to talk about: How many different colours can you see in the water? Can you see the tiny blue dots on the boys red hat?

Henri Matisse, The Snail, 1953, Tate Modern

PA Archive/PA Images

From tiny dots of colour to great big slabs of it, Henri Matisse goes in the opposite direction to Seurat in this collage. The French artist always painted in bright, bold colours, but as he got older he decided to make his art using large bits of coloured paper instead. The arrangement of the pieces follows the spiral of a snails shell, and the complementary colours have been especially paired up for the piece to be as vibrant as possible.

Things to talk about: Does it look like a snail to you? What else does it look like?

Queen Elizabeth I by Unknown continental artist circa 1575, National Portrait Gallery

National Portrait Gallery London

While this painting is interesting for all kids, its an especially good one for the girls. This is Queen Elizabeth I, the Tudor queen who ruled for 44 years and famously never married. She didnt need a bloke by her side, but rallied her troops for battle by herself. She once sent her army off with the words I know I have the body but of a weak and feeble woman; but I have the heart and stomach of a king, and of a king of England too.

Things to talk about: What do you think she is thinking? Can you spot her crown?

Joseph Mallord William Turner, Rain, Steam, and Speed - The Great Western Railway, 1844, National Gallery

The National Gallery, London

This painting may look like a piece of abstract art, but that all changes when you look closer. On the right hand side you can see the archways of a bridge, and it then becomes clear that the dark blob is a train with a chimney, racing along the tracks towards you  its so difficult to see because the whole scene is shrouded in rain and cloud.

Things to talk about: Can you spot the boat? Do you think the sun is coming out or going away?

Henri Rousseau, Surprised!, 1891, National Gallery

The National Gallery, London

Downpours dont come more dramatic than a monsoon in the jungle. Amid this storm, a tiger is creeping along in the dark, hunting its prey stealthily, before a bolt of lightning cracks and lights up the whole jungle. Take a closer look at how Rousseau has painted the rain: hes created the effect of streaming raindrops by streaking very watery grey paint across the whole canvas.

Things to talk about: Is it you that is surprised? Or is the tiger surprised? Can you find the lightning bolt?

Titian, Bacchus and Ariadne, 1520-3, National Gallery

The National Gallery, London

A painting with a story is always good fun. This painting by Renaissance artist Titian shows the story of the Greek God of wine Bacchus and Ariadne, the daughter of King Minos. Bacchus in the pink cape is partying with his friends until he sees Ariadne, and instantly falls in love with her, leaping from his chariot. You can also explain that the bright blue colour of the paint has been made by crushing lapis lazuli, a bright blue semi-precious stone.

Things to talk about: What do you think the cheetahs are thinking? What does the blue colour remind you of?

William Shakespeare associated with John Taylor circa 1600-1610, National Portrait Gallery

National Portrait Gallery London

When it comes to stories, no one did them quite like this guy. For slightly older kids, you can ask them who they think he is  the answer is William Shakespeare. What with him being by far the most famous playwright on the planet, and revered by Queen Elizabeth I, this is the only painting in the world believed to actually be of him. He is said to have been a bit of a maverick, and he does have quite the glint in his eye in this painting.
H arry, Ron and Hermione just got dirty  and in the most spellbindingly good way possible.

Clapham hangout The Grand is celebrating back-to-school month very differently this year. Instead of going out to buy a new notepad and extra long ruler to impress professor Ramsdale, they're asking us London Potterites to burst through their doors with our wands in our trousers and our Nimbus 2000s wedged firmly between our legs.

Why? Simple. On September 1, the club is hosting Back To Hogwarts  a full night dedicated to the magical world of Harry Potter. Oh my hedwig.

The set up is pretty straight forward. You go in fully robed  we hope so anyway  are then sorted into your house before being ushered into the Great Hall to begin a night of total wizarding debauchery.

Expect everything from competing for the House Cup to a themed-photo booth, Horcrux trails, gallons upon gallons of Butterbeer, Liquid Luck slushies, Quidditch beer pong and an appearance from Dumbledore's dance troupe all to the sounds of DJs bangin' out the biggest party anthems ever.

Harry Potter film locations in London - In pictures 1 /11 Harry Potter film locations in London - In pictures Leadenhall Market Wizarding retail haven Diagon Alley is reimagined in the Philosophers Stone under the beams of Leadenhall Market, a Victorian covered market in the heart of the City. The Leaky Cauldron, the pub that serves as the entrance to Diagon Alley, is now an opticians in Bulls Head Passage. Oli Scarff/Getty Images King's Cross Station The barrier between platforms 9 and 10 at Kings Cross station has become possibly the most famous Potter pit stop in London. For all those attempting to magic their way onto Platform 9 and  to board the Hogwarts Express, you can take a picture with the disappearing luggage trolley that has been installed by the station  largely to stop fans ramming their own trolleys into the wall. Getty Images St Pancras International Station When Harry and Ron get locked out of Platform 9 and  and decide, sensibly, to drive their flying Ford Anglia to school instead. As they take off on their (faintly illegal) journey, St Pancras sits in the background of their parking spot. PA Archive/PA Images Millennium Bridge The opening scene of the Half Blood Prince sees London under attack from a pack of Death Eaters. Their target is the Millennium Bridge  nicknamed the Wobbly Bridge on opening due to a now-rectified structural quirk  which links the St Pauls area to the north of the river to site of Tate Modern in the South. Getty Images Reptile House at London Zoo On a trip to zoo in the Philosophers Stone, Harry encounters a Burmese python  and finds he can speak to it. In the films, this meeting takes place in the Reptile House of London Zoo. The enclosure featured in the film is currently home to a black mamba snake, so you can try out your parseltongue in the same spot. Australia House The opulent interior of Gringotts Wizarding Bank was filmed in Australia House, a Grade II listed building which was opened on the Strand by King George V in 1918. The building is home to the Australia High Commission in the UK, but is not averse to cultural exploits, having also hosted a 2015 fashion show by label Sass & Bide and featured in 2017 film Wonder Woman. PA Archive/PA Images Lambeth Bridge In the Prisoner of Azkaban, The Knight Bus offers nocturnal public transport to wizarding folk, including a runaway Harry. The purple, triple decker vehicle is seen in the film squeezing through an impossible gap between two standard red buses, a scene which takes place on Lambeth Bridge. As the next bridge after Westminster, Lambeth Bridge offers views of the Houses of Parliament. AFP/Getty Images St Paul's Cathedral As students ascend to Professor Trelawneys Divination class in the Prisoner of Azkaban, they journey up a spectacular spiral staircase. In the real world, this staircase has a home that is almost as grand as Hogwarts: St Pauls Cathedral. The Deans Staircase in the Christopher Wren building served as the filming location for this corner of the school. Getty Images Westminster Station In the Order of the Phoenix, Harry is called to a hearing at the Ministry of Magic in London  but how does he get there? By tube of course! Harry Potter and Arthur Weasley are seen navigating the tube barriers at Westminster Station with a host of Muggle commuters, in a scene that caused the station to shut for an entire day. AFP/Getty Images Piccadilly Circus In Deathly Hallows Part I, this is where Harry, Ron and Hermione are seen to have fled here after Death Eaters attack Bills wedding. Harry Potter super fans will know that in the books, they actually ended up in Tottenham Court Road. PA Archive/PA Images HMS Belfast & Tower Bridge As Harry and members of the Order of the Phoenix journey from Privet Drive to 12 Grimmauld Place, the family home of Sirius Black, they do so by broomstick along the Thames. On that journey they pass HMS Belfast a Second World War navy warship which is moored next to Tower Bridge, another iconic London landmark featured in the scene. PA Archive/PA Images

We asked them about the event and the only thing they had to say was 'wizards welcome, muggles tolerated'.

In our books, that means there's even room for Dolores Umbridge. If you know, you know.
T oday's Google Doodle celebrates what would have been Muslim philosopher Ibn Sina's 1038th birthday.

Sina is widely regarded as one of the most significant figures of the Islamic Golden Age and made foundation-forming breakthroughs in medicine.

Here's everything you need to know about why Ibn Sina is important, plus his greatest achievements and quotes:

Who is Ibn Sina?

Sina grew up in Afsana, a village near Bukhara, near what we now know as Uzbekistan.

Sina was a polymath (meaning he was an expert in a variety of different fields) and learnt arithmetic and taught himself physics and other philosophies by studying Aristotle.

He began studying medicine at the age of 16 and went on to pen over 131 books.

Muslim philosopher Ibn Sina is today's Google doodle. (Google ) / Google

What were Ibn Sina's biggest achievements?

Sina's most influential book out of the many he wrote is Al Qanun fil-Tibb, or 'The Canon of Medicine.'

It was the first work to identify contagious diseases such as Tuberculosis, and quickly became an essential text in European medicine after being translated.

It's now credited as helping to form the foundations for modern Western medicine.

Ibn Sina is considered to have helped build the foundation for Western modern medicine / Rex Features

What were some of his most inspirational quotes?

Having written as many books as Ibn Sina has, you can expect him to have more than a few stirring quotes. Here are some of his best:

"The world is divided into men who have wit and no religion and men who have religion and no wit"

"The knowledge of anything, since all sins have causes, is not acquired to complete unless it is known by its causes."

"The more brilliant the lighting, the quicker it disappears."
A man has been charged with the murder of a young rapper who was stabbed to death in south London.

Sidique Kamara, 23, who performed in drill music group Moscow17 under the name Incognito, was found fatally injured outside a block of flats in Camberwell on August 1.

Kenneth Umezie, 31, of Camberwell, was charged with murdering Kamara, the father of a four-year-old daughter, on Tuesday.

Three teenagers who were arrested as part of the police inquiry have been released under investigation, Scotland Yard said.

Sidique Kamara, 23, died after being stabbed in Warham Street in Camberwell, south London / PA

Kamara, an Arsenal fan, was the youngest of three siblings and had a four-year-old daughter, a family friend revealed to the Standard.

His killing was the 88th murder in London so far this year.

A Met Police statement said: "Kenneth Umezie, 31, of Camberwell, was charged on Tuesday, August 7 with murder.

"He will appear in custody at Bromley Magistrates' Court on Wednesday August 8.
A pensioner is fighting for his life in hospital after being struck by a moped in a hit-and-run crash in north-east London.

The victim, 90, was struck as he walked along Central Street in Islington before the scooter driver sped off on Monday.

The elderly pedestrian was rushed to hospital after suffering serious head and leg injuries in the crash.

He remained in a critical condition on Tuesday morning. His family have been informed.

Police are trying to trace driver, who came off their black moped in the crash before picking themselves up and speeding away.

Their red open-faced crash helmet was left at the scene.

In statement, Scotland Yard said: Officers from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit are dealing.
T he chairwoman of the all-party parliamentary group on knife crime says youth violence is at crisis point, and backed the public health model supported by the Evening Standard to tackle the problem.

Sarah Jones, MP for Croydon Central and shadow minister for housing, was shocked into acting by the violence she saw in her constituency.

She supported the Standards call for a Violence Reduction Unit, saying it should focus on four public health pillars  police, education, health and community.

She said: Were now at crisis point. Its crucial to look for a way forward, something the Standards special investigation did well.

"Violent crime halved across Scotland after they implemented the [public health] approach.

She called the Standards 400,000 Save London Lives fund a huge commitment to the public health model, which focuses on prevention as well as enforcement.
A straight A student "looked utterly mortified" as his proud mother grabbed him for a kiss on the cheek live on BBC Breakfast.

The BBC programme was live at Greenfaulds High School, on the outskirts of Glasgow, to mark the publication of Scottish exam results.

One boy, Fraser, had just revealed his excellent results, achieving five As. Ive done fine, he blushed.

Presenter Catriona Renton then spoke to proud mother Alison, who made a beeline for her son.

Wincing and trying to escape her clutches, Fraser begged: Please dont!

Presenter Catriona Renton brought in proud mum Alison / BBC Breakfast

With the red-faced teen shaking his head, Ms Renton said: There you go, Fraser, that will embarrass you for the rest of your life.

Fraser's mum leans in for the kiss / BBC Breakfast

One viewer tweeted that the student "looked utterly mortified" as his mother kissed him on the cheek to congratulate him.

Fraser took it in good spirits / BBC Breakfast

Another said: "Aah poor Fraser, I really felt for him!! (But would be the same with my kids too)."

Elizabeth Allen added: "Highlight of my day that! just love the emotion and pride from Fraser's mum. Well done to all the kids there."
A boy of seven died in a suspected arson attack on a family home early today.

Witnesses told how a mother and her young daughter leapt from the first-floor window as the flames swiftly took hold of the semi-detached house at Deptford, south-east London.

More than 30 firefighters spent nearly 90 minutes tackling the very severe blaze which broke out in Adolphus Street at about 3.25am. Shortly after it was extinguished at 4.48am, police revealed that they were treating it as suspicious.

Tragic death: Joel Urhie / PA

A neighbour said the family had lived in the house for 10 years, and the mother-of-three worked as a nurse.

Police and fire investigations officers at the scene of a house fire on Adolphus Street, Deptford, south-east London, in which a seven-year-old boy has died / Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire

A witness said: They were trapped and she had to smash a bedroom window and jump, but she got hurt. The boy was in the room at the back of the house.

Police are treating the fire on Adolphus Street, in Deptford, as suspicous / Ben Morgan

Sarah Hamblin, 31, a mother-of-four who lives opposite, said: I was woken up because of the heat and went outside. I saw the whole of the back of the house on fire. People inside were shouting for help to get them out.

I could see the little boy in the window at the back. When the fire brigade arrived it was all hands on deck. But they couldnt get access to the back garden because the gate was locked and they had to go via next door.

I heard glass smashing and someone screaming they were out. There was more screaming and the boy was still trapped. I could see him and there was nothing anyone could do. It was horrendous.

Another neighbour, 55, said: I was woken up by screaming and looked out to see a half-dressed young girl screaming hes still inside. I saw the mother with blood on her head. I got them to the side where they were attended to by paramedics. After finding out someone was still in there I approached the house and flames came out the front door. They just shot up in a big long flame like a gas flame. The house caught fire within minutes.

He added: All I could do is watch the house catch alight with a seven-year-old inside. I wanted to try to rescue him but we couldnt.

The dead boy has an older brother but it was not clear this morning if he was also inside the house at the time.

The London Fire Brigade said in a statement that two females jumped from the first floor shortly before the first firefighters arrived. They were treated at the scene by firefighters and ambulance crews. Scotland Yard said police in Lewisham had launched an investigation with support from homicide unit detectives.

The father of the seven-year-olds best friend said he was absolutely devastated. Mcklushia Myles, 36, added that the victim was like a son to him. Mr Myles, a carpenter who lives nearby, said: I saw him everyday. He lived with his mum and sister  it was just the three of them in the house. My son is the same age, they were best friends. Hes like family. He was always so happy. I slept through it.

I didnt even know it happened until the neighbours came knocking. Its unbelievable to know that hes gone.

The fire brigade said: "Firefighters arrived to find a very severe fire inside the house. The ground floor was badly damaged by the blaze, as well as the whole of the first floor and the stairs from the ground to the first floor.

Two women jumped from the first floor of the home shortly before firefighters arrived / Ben Morgan

"Two women jumped from first floor level shortly before the first firefighters arrived at scene. They were both treated at the scene by firefighters and London Ambulance Service crews.

"Sadly, a seven-year-old boy was found deceased by firefighters inside the property."

Other neighbours told of their shock at the boy's death as investigators worked inside the fire-ravaged house behind a police cordon.

A police officer stands guard at the scene of a suspected arson attack in Deptford / Ben Morgan/Evening Standard

"I saw him last on Friday. It was my birthday so we had a barbecue," said Wale Arthur, 39. "He was a very happy lad."

A family friend, who asked not to be named, described him as a "very quiet boy".

"I saw him on Sunday. He came to my house and we took him to church," she said.

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A London Ambulance Service spokesperson told the Standard: We sent an incident response officer, an advanced paramedic, a single responder in a car and four ambulance crews. We also dispatched our hazardous area response team (HART) and a response car from Londons Air Ambulance.

We treated two people at the scene and took them to hospital. Sadly, a third person  a child  died at the scene.

The boy's next-of-kin have been informed of his death. Police said there have not been any arrests made in connection with the fatal fire.
S tudents at the London School of Economics have expressed outrage over the university installing heartless barriers on benches that prevent rough sleepers from resting on them.

A petition which has amassed hundreds of signatures was launched by LSE students, who said they whole-heartedly reject the prioritisation of aesthetics over the shelter of the most vulnerable in our society.

Nearly 400 people have signed the change.org petition, calling for the central London university to remove the arm rests.

The university said the changes were made in the interests of safety for the staff and students.

Masters student Cara Leavey explained that the benches, in the library plaza area of the campus, used to be long, older and without any arm rests or barriers.

The 22-year-old said that she often saw rough sleepers rest on the benches overnight, as they were in a sheltered area.

She added that she did not see those making use of the benches at night cause any disturbance or offence to students or staff.

Ms Leavey said the decision to install armrests has been a recent one and said it has taken place while many undergraduates are away from campus.

A lot of people used to sleep there at night, I used to walk by them. Nobody really used the benches in the day time, I would only see them [rough sleepers] at night," she said.

Theres a huge homeless population around the Lincolns Inn Fields area. At night we would see someone [making use] of the benches. They could stretch out and they were not on the ground.

The Inequalities and Social Sciences student said she thought the decision to install armrests was heartless and did not reflect the kind-hearted attitudes of most students.

She said: I understand that the some of the benches needed some renovation around campus and it was the right decision to replace them, but what they have replaced them with is morally questionable.

Theres so many great campaigns going on on campus, like soup kitchens and food donations. People really do care about the issue and I feel like its a poor reflection of how the university population feels.

She added: It was quite heartless, I think.

Echoing this, the petition read: LSE's mission statement claims to work towards the "betterment of society", but the implementation of anti-homeless benches outside the library is anything but.

A spokesman for LSE said the decision to alter the benches was done to try and reduce anti-social behaviour.

The spokesman said: The safety of our staff and students is paramount.

We received a number of reports from LSE staff and students who were threatened and abused by members of the public gathering on the benches outside the library. This is in addition to extreme anti-social behaviour in the area.

The risk posed to the LSE community had become unacceptable and changes were made to attempt to reduce the incidence of further threats and anti-social behaviour.
A hard Brexit would pose a risk to public safety, police chiefs have warned.

Police and Crime Commissioners have called on Home Secretary Sajid Javid to draft contingency plans for a no-deal Brexit immediately.

They said police forces would face a significant loss of operational capacity and lose access to cross-border investigative powers.

In a letter to Mr Javid, the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) said for this to be avoided a deal with the EU must be struck.

The letter, which emerged on Monday, read: "We understand that considerable additional resource would be required for policing to operate using non-EU tools and that such tools would be sub-optimal - potentially putting operational efficiency and public safety at risk."

It continues: "There are 32 Law Enforcement and National Security Measures [Lens] that are used on a daily basis in an operational policing context.

"Unless the Government is able to negotiate the retention of these measures following the UK's withdrawal from the EU, police and law enforcement agencies face a significant loss of operational capacity.

"As Police and Crime Commissioners, we are increasingly concerned that such a loss of capacity could pose significant risks to our local communities."

The police chiefs also state the Brexit negotiations come at a time when the in-country threat from foreign national offenders targeting the UK from abroad is increasing, and when international co-operation is a key element of the fight against crime.

They further said that with the implementation period unlikely to be known until October this year, the five-month window until the end of March 2019 is "likely to be very challenging".

"We are therefore concerned that a 'no deal' scenario could cause delays and challenges for UK policing and justice agencies," the letter states.

The Commissioners have asked Mr Javid to ensure the need to retain Lens tools is prioritised, that he works closely with the APCC, NPCC and NCA to get a detailed understanding of the potential risks.

They asked also that he considers the financial provisions and extra resources needed to support contingency planning in the event of no security treaty being achieved.
B ritain has criticised Donald Trumps decision to impose sweeping sanctions on Iran and to pull out of the nuclear deal.

Foreign Office minister Alistair Burt said the Americans really have not got this right.

The US leaders unilateral move on sanctions follows his decision to pull out of the Obama agreement designed to reward Iran for curtailing its ambitions for nuclear weapons.

Mr Burt said: One partner pulling out of this doesnt help that situation at all  thats why we think the Americans really have not got this right but we hope a combination of what they are doing and what the rest of us are doing will move Iran in a different direction.

He added that steering Iran away from nuclear weapons was good for not only the regions security but the worlds security, and said Britain would not follow the US lead on sanctions.

There are other things that involve Iran that were concerned about in the region, but sticking to a deal which a number of partners had agreed to we thought was important, Mr Burt added.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani accused the US of "psychological warfare" / AFP/Getty Images

America was accused of endangering ordinary Iranians by reinstating the economic sanctions overnight.

US hypocrisy knows no bounds, claimed Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif as the measures took effect today.

The Trump administration wants the world to believe its concerned about the Iranian people. Yet the very first sanctions it reimposed have cancelled licences for sales of 200-plus passenger jets under absurd pretexts, endangering ordinary Iranians.

Mr Zarif also said the move showed the US was diplomatically isolated.

He spoke out after Irans president, Hassan Rouhani, described the sanctions as psychological warfare and a bid to sow divisions among Iranians.

He claimed the US government had turned their backs on diplomacy and insisted negotiations with sanctions doesnt work.

The EU has also criticised Mr Trumps sanctions strategy, pledging to protect companies involved in legitimate business with Iran. Britain, China, Germany, France and Russia were among those pleading with Mr Trump not to pull out of the pact. But the US president today said the decision to pile economic pressure on Tehran was made to force a comprehensive and lasting solution to Irans malign activities.

Signing an executive order to reimpose the sanctions from midnight, he warned Iran it must either change its threatening, destabilising behaviour and reintegrate with the global economy, or continue down a path of economic isolation.

The first two waves of sanctions target Irans currency transactions. Further penalties against the countrys oil trade are planned for later this year.

Although the US is the only nation to have withdrawn from the 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal signed by Mr Obama, Irans currency has lost almost half its value since Mr Trump quit the deal.
T he anti-Semitism row facing Jeremy Corbyn deepened today as two senior MPs accused the party leadership of attempting to silence critics with trumped-up disciplinary charges.

Ian Austin released a legal letter which described a Labour investigation into him as a farce and a disgrace and a cynical attempt to shut him up.

Speaking to the Evening Standard, Dame Margaret Hodge said some figures in the leadership were trying to purge critics of Mr Corbyn. Both MPs have voiced their concerns about his failure to tackle anti-Semitism infecting elements of the Labour left.

In a legal letter to party general secretary Jennie Formby, lawyers for Mr Austin wrote: This process has been a farce and a disgrace.

It has plainly been designed to silence our client for his legitimate, honestly held criticisms of Mr Corbyns failure to address the scourge of anti-Semitism in the Labour Party.

Under pressure: Jeremy Corbyn (Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images) / Getty Images

Mr Austin denies berating Labour chairman Ian Lavery about the partys decision to reject the full, internationally recognised definition of anti-Semitism made by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.

Jeremy Corbyn apologies for hurt caused by antisemitism row

Yesterday the party bowed to pressure to abandon an investigation into claims that Dame Margaret had shouted at Mr Corbyn over the issue.

A subsequent row broke out when the leadership said that it had dropped the inquiry because Dame Margaret had expressed regret about her outburst to Labour Chief Whip Nick Brown  something she flatly denies.

In her interview with the Standard, Dame Margaret called for the nonsense action against Mr Austin to be abandoned too.

Asked if she believed there was a purge of Mr Corbyns critics under way, she told the Standard: I have absolutely no doubt that there are those in the leadership who want to get rid, whether it is through deselection or disciplinary action, of any opposition. The new style of politics is bullying and intolerance, not gentle and inclusive.

Dame Margaret insisted she had no regrets about confronting Mr Corbyn, saying: I stand by what I said. She went on: The issue of starting to rebuild trust with the Jewish community means they have got to approach the issue of anti-Semitism in a different way.

Adopt the IHRA definition in full and then work with the Jewish community and others to ensure that all our rights to be critical of the Israeli government are preserved.

The veteran MP for Barking said the complaints made against her and Mr Austin were unfounded because there was nothing unusual about heated conversations in political life. Pretending that that somehow is an unacceptable way of behaving is a nonsense, she said.

Dame Margaret added that the damage to Labours reputation was deep. Labour used to be seen as the natural home of Jews; now it is being seen as a hostile environment, she said.
T ory chairman Brandon Lewis today called on Boris Johnson to apologise for offensive comments that Muslim women wearing burkas look like letterboxes.

The ex- Foreign Secretary also came under fire from one of his firmer deputies, at the Foreign Office.

Minister for the Middle East Alistair Burt said: I would never have made such a comment, I think there is a degree of offence in that, absolutely right.

The high-level slap-downs came after Mr Johnson wrote a column that also joked that Muslim face coverings made women look like bank robbers.

Boris Johnson compares women in burkas to "letter boxes"

Asked about Mr Johnson on the Today programme, Mr Burt responded with apparent irony: What a great guy.

He said the former Foreign Secretary had been trying to make a serious point but added: I wish he hadnt accompanied it with a comment that I certainly wouldnt make and I think many people would find offensive, yes.

Mr Lewis, who is in charge of preserving the partys image, later tweeted: I agree with @AlistairBurtUK. I have asked @BorisJohnson to apologise.

Muslim communities and opposition MPs rounded on Mr Johnson  but at the same time the Conservative Party was accused of failing to follow up on measures to Islamophobia.

Boris Johnson has come under fire for his comments about burkas / Victoria Jones/PA

Fiyaz Mughal, founder of Tell Mama UK, which campaigns against anti-Muslim violence, told Today that the group was dismayed when a meeting with Tory chair Brandon Lewis resulted in absolutely nothing being done.

Yesterday the hero imam of the Finsbury Park mosque attack wrote an article in the Standard that criticised the Government and the Conservative Party for not doing enough about alleged anti-Muslim activities.

Mr Mughal said that after meeting Mr Lewis a series of correspondence went back to the chairs office saying a number of steps needed to be taken to build reassurance around tackling anti-muslim hatred or Islamophobia - and absolutely nothing happened.

He said it was not good enough following multiple instances at a local level of suspected Islamophobic incidents involving Conservatives.
T heresa May has backed calls for Boris Johnson to apologise for his comments that Muslim women wearing burkas look like letterboxes.

The Prime Minister today said that the former Foreign Secretary's statements had "obviously offended" some people and added: "I do think that we all have to be very careful about the language and terms we use.

"And some of the terms Boris used describing people's appearance obviously have offended."

Mrs May said: "What's important is do we believe people should have the right to practise their religion and, in the case of women and the burka and niqab, to choose how they dress.

"I believe women should be able to choose how they dress."

A source close to Mr Johnson made clear he was not retracting his comments.

Mrs May has joined in calls for Mr Johnson to apologise / Getty Images

"It is ridiculous that these views are being attacked - we must not fall into the trap of shutting down the debate on difficult issues," said the source.

"We have to call it out. If we fail to speak up for liberal values then we are simply yielding ground to reactionaries and extremists."

The Prime Minister's calls come after Conservative Party chairman Brandon Lewis ordered Mr Johnson to apologise over a newspaper article in which the former foreign secretary also compared women wearing the veils to bank robbers.

Boris Johnson compares women in burkas to "letter boxes"

The remarks were described as "offensive" by Foreign Office minister Alistair Burt and "bigotry" by former Tory chair Baroness Warsi.

Writing in the Daily Telegraph on Monday, Mr Johnson said he did not want Britain to follow European countries like Denmark which have banned the burka and niqab in public places.

But he described the burka as "ridiculous" and "weird"

Mr Johnson has long campaigned for equal treatment for women in developing countries, especially the provision of education for girls.

His article stated that there was no requirement in the Koran for women to cover their faces, and attacked "bullying (and) oppressive" male-dominated governments which tried to force them to do so.
A former Uruguay diplomat has admitted stabbing an LGBT rights campaigner to death following a "long-standing" neighbour dispute.

Enrique Facelli, 49, attacked Julian Aubrey in his West Kensington flat in October last year.

Police had been called to the flat in Shaftesbury Place on Warwick Road to reports of a man found with stab wounds.

Mr Aubrey, 55, was pronounced dead at the scene and a post-mortem later confirmed he had suffered multiple stab wounds.

His neighbour, Facelli, was due to go on trial, but pleaded guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility at a hearing at the Old Bailey.

Victim: Julian Aubrey / PA

Judge Anthony Leonard QC handed Facelli a hospital order without imposing a time limit.

Mr Aubrey was formerly co-chairman of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea LGBT liaison group and in 2014 was recognised by the Princess Royal for his work counselling victims of sexual abuse.

Tradesmen found Mr Aubrey's body lying in the hallway of his flat with 22 stab wounds, the court heard.

Prosecutor Tom Little QC said: "This case involves a long-standing neighbour dispute.

"There were many years of allegations and counter-allegations between the neighbours."

Facelli had complained to his housing association that Mr Aubrey left rubbish in the communal areas of the block, opened his mailbox and left faeces in the stairwell.

By November 2015, Facelli was showing "extreme signs of paranoia" and the following year he was referred to mental health services.

He developed a delusional belief that Mr Aubrey was a devil worshipper and was out to kill him, the Old Bailey heard.

In mitigation, Patrick Gibbs QC told how Facelli was an intelligent individual who spent 18 years as the cultural attache for the embassy of Uruguay in London.

But he had been "driven quite out of his wits" and lived in "mortal fear" of Mr Aubrey, Mr Gibbs said.

In a victim impact statement, Mr Aubrey's sister said: "Julian did not deserve such an evil and horrific death."

She described him as a "kind, sensitive, gentle, sincere and caring" man who "could be too trusting and a little bit gullible".

Detective Inspector Jon Meager, of Scotland Yard, said a number of factors led to the deterioration of the relationship between Facelli and Mr Aubrey, who had been neighbours for 19 years.

He said: "Despite Facelli originally claiming to have had no involvement in the death, forensic examinations helped us to prove that he had been lying about this and made it obvious how he had attempted to cover his tracks.

"I hope that the sentencing today brings some comfort to Mr Aubrey's family and friends, in the knowledge that Facelli will not be able to inflict such pain on anyone else."
P olice have hailed hero shoppers who rescued two small children from a sweltering car as their parents were shopping in a supermarket.

Officers were called to a Morrisons supermarket car park in Reigate on Monday to reports of two children below the age of three being left alone in a vehicle in the 30C heat.

Two members of the public who spotted the children had already managed to open the doors of the car and rescue the children before police arrived.

The children who were one and two years old were being cooled down and given water when officers got to the car park.

According to police one of the parents of the children was a doctor.

The Reigate and Banstead police force issued a plea on its Facebook page urging parents not to leave their children unattended in cars especially during the heatwave currently hitting Britain.

Whilst we hope this can be considered a one off incident it doesnt distract from the fact that the potential risk is as serious as they come. The outcome of this incident could have been much much worse had action not have been taken.

This coupled with the fact that the parent was a doctor and the act of leaving pets and children in hot vehicles is all over the public domain in the media etc, it is worrying that this incident occurred in the first place,  police said.

A number of people deemed the actions of the parents irresponsible.

One woman called Stephanie Akanga who was in Morrisons at the time said: I was in Morrisons when I heard a tannoy announcement asking for the owners of a certain car to return to their vehicle immediately. I thought maybe a dog had been left in the car-no idea it was children.

Carol Dan Wood wrote: What is wrong with people. Poor babies, shouldn't have been on their own regardless of weather, but in this heat it's incredibly stupid and dangerous.

While another person wrote: You just don't leave your kids on their own, period! Totally irresponsible parenting.
K atie Price has avoided being declared bankrupt after a High Court hearing over her finances was adjourned for nearly three months.

A judge at the Rolls Building in central London agreed to put off a hearing while the ex-glamour model tries to reach an agreement with her creditors.

The 40-year-old, formerly known as Jordan, did not appear for the hearing on Tuesday, which lasted less than two minutes.

Price was once estimated to be worth 45 million and has reportedly been fighting against bankruptcy for the last few months following the breakdown of her third marriage and the collapse of her clothing company, KP Boutique.

Katie Price - In pictures 1 /46 Katie Price - In pictures Instagram/katieprice @katieprice Jeff Spicer/Getty Images Katie Price: Harvey & Me Glen Gratton SplashNews.com @zoejamesmua PA Wire/PA Images The Adventures of Katie and Carl Fluffy style Katie at a film premiere in London in February Dave Benett Crisis talks Katie Price and Derrick Pountney after crisis talks via Showbiz Bang Loved up Katie Price with husband Kieran Hayler, who had an affair with her best friend Katie Price Twitter Image Shining in silver The model pictured at a screening of a Lego film which she attended with her children (Picture: Sean Dempsey/PA) Sean Dempsey/PA Wire Extravagant Katie Price poses with a copy of her autobiography - Love, Lipstick And Lies - in one of her famously extravagant attires (Picture: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images) Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images Angel Katie Price at aphotocall to launch her new venture KP Rocks (Picture: Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images) Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images My Little Pony Katie Price wore a strange pink horse outfit for the fifth birthday of her equestrian school PA Riding in Katie riding a horse for a book launch in London Ferdaus Shamim/Getty Images Cooling off Katie Price poses in a bikini in the I'm A Celebrity shower ITV/Rex Features Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Bongarts/Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images

A representative for the reality TV star said: "Katie is aware of the hearing and is working with her advisers to resolve her current financial issues.

"She hopes to be in a position to do so and reach agreement with her creditors."

Judge Barnett, sitting in a specialist insolvency and companies court, was told that Price and her creditors had agreed to an adjournment of the case to allow time for the consideration of a Individual Voluntary Agreement (IVA).

An IVA is a formal agreement which lets people with debt repay their creditors at an affordable rate, in a bid to avoid bankruptcy.

The judge agreed to adjourn the case until October 30.
T his is the moment the Queen was forced to hold her nose as a notoriously naughty Shetland pony relieved himself in front of her.

Her Majesty was talking to Pony Major Mark Wilkinson and Officer Commanding Major Johnny Thompson during a visit to The Royal Regiment of Scotland when the unfortunate incident took place.

As she was inspecting the Balaclava Company at the regiment, the tiny pony, Cruachan IV, who is also the regimental mascot, decided to relieve himself.

In a previous meeting with the Queen, the pony tried to eat her posy of flowers and earlier this year, nipped Prince Harry's hand during his visit to Edinburgh with Meghan Markle.

The Queen spoke to Pony Major Mark Wilkinson during her visit / PA

Photos showed the Queen holding her nose as Cruachan IV appeared unphased.

Cruachan cheekily tried to steal the Queens flowers during her previous visit to the regiment in July last year.

The pony became an internet sensation when a video of him eating the Queens poses went viral.

The Shetland pony previously made headlines for attempting to take a bite out of the Queen's posy in July 2017 (PA ) / PA

Her Majesty fended the peckish pony off and told it to go away.

The Queen at Royal Windsor Horse Show 2018 - In pictures 1 /12 The Queen at Royal Windsor Horse Show 2018 - In pictures The Queen watches one of her horses compete during day one of the Royal Windsor Horse Show at Windsor Castle, Berkshire PA EPA PA Getty Images PA EPA EPA PA PA EPA PA PA
T hermal images from a new smartphone have revealed dogs struggle with scorching temperatures and how effective a quick dip is in cooling them off.

Images taken on a Cat S61 smartphone show dogs body temperatures soaring as high as 48.2C as the capital basked in scorching sunshine hotter than 30C.

Pups soaking up the rays near Hampstead bathing ponds saw their body temperatures plummet by between 15C and 20C after a cooling dip.

One bulldog was recorded as having a body temperature of 42.9C this dropped to 32.9C after a swim.

Larger dogs cooled down quicker, images showed / Bullit Group

A German shepherd recorded a body temperature of 31.1C before a swim and 25.6C afterwards.

Claire Gorham has a 14-year-old Labrador who has been struggling to keep cool in the heat.

She said: "Alfie has been very hot and bothered in this weather - he's been finding it hard to sleep and kept pacing around the house.

This bulldog recorded a body temperature of 42.9C / Bullitt Group

A friend of ours recommended wrapping him in a cold wet towel. I thought hed hate it, but he loves it.

A spokesman for Bullitt Group, the UK company that makes the Cat S61, said: The phone is obviously a very handy tool for many things including monitoring a pets temperature during the hottest summer in decades.

The device is also very popular with farmers who use it as a non-intrusive diagnostic tool to show onset of any inflammation or infection, for example mastitis. Their heat patterns are also used for livestock management and even if lambs are suffering hypothermia during cold weather.



Vets have advised taking warm pets swimming if possible or keeping them cool with water spray and frozen treats.

Owners should avoid walking dogs around midday, provide fresh water for their pets at all times and take a portable water bottle on walks.

Brits today sweltered in 32C heat but the Met Office issued thunderstorm warnings for the south east and east from 4pm.

This pug recorded a sweltering 39.8C body temperature / Bullitt Group

Forecasters say there is a possibility of flooding, power cuts and train and bus cancellations.

The storms come as parts of the UK recorded as many as 11 consecutive days without rain amid a scorching prolonged heatwave.

In south-east England, 11 consecutive days with no rainfall were recorded from June 20 to June 30 - the longest uninterrupted dry spell in the region since May/June 1997.

The 64 days of zero average rainfall from January to July is already higher than the number recorded in south-east England for the whole of 2017 (58 days).

In central England, nine consecutive days of zero average rainfall were recorded from June 21 to June 29, followed by 0.01mm of rain on June 30, then 10 further days without rain (July 1 to July 10).
D eadly wildfires have been continuing to ravage California with two blazes merging last night to become the largest in the US state's history.

The twin wildfires have already burned through 283,800 acres of land and firefighters are struggling to contain the blaze.

Here's everything you need to know about where the fires are plus the latest travel and safety advice:

Where are the fires?

The two fires are being referred to collectively as the Mendocino Complex Fire, which consists of the Ranch Fire and the River Fire.

These fires are burning in Mendocino, Lake and Colusa counties, about 90 miles north of San Francisco.

The fire has grown about 80 per cent since Friday night, having already blazed through an area the size of Los Angeles.

As of Monday evening, it was 30 per cent contained and had destroyed 75 residences.

The Carr fire also continues to burn in Northern California, 162 miles north of Sacramento.

California Wildfires: July/August 2018 - In pictures 1 /37 California Wildfires: July/August 2018 - In pictures AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images A 747 Global Airtanker makes a drop in front of advancing flames from a wildfir AP A truck passes by flames during the Ranch Fire in Clearlake Oaks AP Alex Schenck moves flaming pallets while fighting to save his home as the Ranch Fire tears down New Long Valley Rd near Clearlake Oaks AFP/Getty Images A deer runs from flames as the Ranch Fire tears down New Long Valley Rd near Clearlake Oaks AFP/Getty Images A resident pushes personal belonging in a wheelbarrow as she evacuates ahead of the River Fire Getty Images A firefighter gathers water from a pool while battling the Ranch Fire near Clearlake Oaks AFP/Getty Images Alex Schenck carries a water bucket while fighting to save his home as the Ranch Fire tears down New Long Valley Rd near Clearlake Oaks, California AFP/Getty Images An air tanker drops fire retardant along the crest of a hill to protect homes and the firefighters protecting them in the valley below at the River Fire (Mendocino Complex) near Lakeport, California Reuters A helicopter carries water while battling the River Fire in Lakeport AP A firefighter rushes to save a home as the River Fire tears through Lakeport AP Australian fire specialists prepare to board a fight at Sydney International Airport in Sydney, New South Wales EPA A wildfire burns in Whiskeytown, California. AP The fire, stoked by hot and windy weather, raged through forests. AP The Cranston fire burns in San Bernardino National Forest, California. Getty Images An air tanker drops retardant while battling the Ferguson fire in Stanislaus National Forest. AFP/Getty Images Firefighters work as the Cranston Fire burns. Getty Images The Ferguson Fire burns along a ridgeline in unincorporated Mariposa County. AP Mara Schumann photographs a plume of smoke from the Ferguson Fire in Yosemite National Park. AP The Carr Fire burns near Highway 299. AP A burning home is reflected in a pool during the Carr fire in Redding. AFP/Getty Images The Carr Fire raced along Highway 299 near Redding. AP An historic schoolhouse burns in Shasta. AP The Carr Fire burns above Whiskeytown Lake near Whiskeytown. AP A CalFire firefighter douses flames on a burning home. AFP/Getty Images An inmate firefighter pauses during a firing operation as the Carr fire continues to burn in Redding. AFP/Getty Images The Carr Fire burns along Highway 299. AP A firefighter lights backfires during the Carr fire in Redding. AFP/Getty Images A woman surveys damage to her grandmother's house in Redding, AP Flames race across a hillside. AFP/Getty Images A home burns along Sunflower Road in Redding. Firefighters help a woman to the Mercy Medical Center emergency room. AP Firefighters discuss plans while battling the Carr Fire in Shasta. AP Residents listen during a community meeting at an auditorium in Yosemite Valley. AP Firefighters preparing for their deployment to the Ferguson Fire near Mariposa. EPA

There are over a dozen other fires burning across several counties in California.

How do wildfires start?

Hot weather riddled with drought and strong winds create the perfect conditions for a wildfire to burn for weeks and possibly even months.

Although wildfires can occur naturally, most wildfires are caused by human carelessness including the improper discarding of cigarettes, arson, campfires, not burning debris properly or misusing fireworks, matches or other flammable items.

Wildfires can also be triggered by lightning.

There have been some opposing views over how the Mendocino Complex Fire started.

President Donald Trump placed the blame on California's environmental laws in a series of tweets.

However, critics have fervently dismissed Trump's claims.

Deputy fire chief Mr Mclean told TIME magazine: "Our changing climate is leading to more severe and destructive fires that we are seeing this year and last."

Is it safe to travel to California?

The Foreign Office has so far placed no travel restrictions on visiting California.

However, they have issued a series of statements warning visitors to be vigilant.

People are being evacuated from Yosemite National Park, and the Foreign Office is advising visitors to "remain vigilant, monitor local media reports, and follow the instructions issued by local authorities, including obeying any evacuation orders.
E normous twin wildfires raging in California have combined to become the largest in the US states history, officials have said.

The two fires, known as the Mendocino Complex, have together already devastated hundreds of square miles as they continued to burn on Tuesday.

They are burning a few miles apart but started within an hour of each other and are now being treated as the same incident, fire officials said.

The fires, north of San Francisco, are only 30 per cent contained and have already ripped through 75 homes.

An air tanker drops retardant on a wildfire burning in California / AP

The size of the fires has surpassed a deadly blaze in southern California in December that destroyed more than 1,000 buildings and killed two people  including a firefighter.

That blaze was not fully contained until January 12.

Hotter weather attributed to climate change is drying out vegetation, creating more intense fires that spread quickly from rural areas to city subdivisions, climate and fire experts have warned.

But they also blame cities and towns that are expanding housing into previously undeveloped areas.

TODO: define component type brightcove

More than 14,000 firefighters are battling over a dozen major blazes throughout California, state Department of Forestry and Fire Protection spokesman Scott McLean said.

"I can remember a couple of years ago when we saw 10 to 12,000 firefighters in the states of California, Oregon and Washington and never the 14,000 we see now," he said.

California wildfires pictured from space 1 /9 California wildfires pictured from space German astronaut and geophysicist Alexander Gerst took this image showing wildfires in the state of California from the International Space Station AFP/Getty Images Plumes of billowing smoke from the fires stretch eastwards toward to the Rocky Mountains @astro_ricky Another shot shows the vast trails of smoke stretching across California @astro_ricky A view from space of the 'frightening' fires in California AFP/Getty Images This NASA picture shows what the Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) instrument on NASAs Terra satellite captured when it passed over California on July 27 and July 29 AFP/Getty Images Plumes of smoke from a wildfire at the Yosemite National Park reached 5km NASA's Terra satellite took images of raging wildfires in California Huge fires in California's woodland were pictured by NASA's Terra satellite Smoke from the so-called Carr Fire near the town of Redding reached 4.5km

Crews did make progress over the weekend against one of the two blazes in the Mendocino Complex with help from water-dropping aircraft, Cal Fire operations chief Charlie Blankenheim said in a video on Facebook.

But the other one is growing after spreading into the Mendocino National Forest.
A t least 11 people have been shot dead and 70 wounded in one weekend in a shocking surge of violence in Chicago.

One teenage girl died after being shot in the face, according to police, a teenage boy was fatally shot riding a bike on Sunday afternoon, and other shootings took place at a block party and a funeral.

The youngest victim was aged 11, according to officials.

At the city's Stroger Hospital, people were pictured weeping outside after they were asked to leave the emergency room's waiting area because it was overcrowded with friends and family of shooting victims.

Police attributed the dozens of shootings to gangs, the illegal flow of guns, and sweltering August heat that drew more people outside.

Gangs sometimes use large summer crowds as cover, said Patrol Chief Fred Waller, adding: "They take advantage of that opportunity and they shoot into a crowd, no matter who they hit."

Donald Trump's lawyer Rudy Giuliani, formerly mayor of New York City, blamed the wave of brutality on Democratic control of the city, which has a longstanding reputation for violent crime.

Victims ranged in age from 11 to 63 on a weekend of bloodshed that stood out even for Chicagoans accustomed to violence in parts of the city.

By comparison, seven people were killed and 32 wounded during the long Memorial Day weekend, the Chicago Tribune reported.

Mayor Rahm Emanuel came under fire from Donald Trump's lawyer Rudy Guiliani / AP

"Our souls are burdened," Mayor Rahm Emanuel, a Democrat, said. "It is unacceptable to happen in any neighbourhood of Chicago. We are a better city."

Echoing comments that Mr Trump has made about Chicago, Mr Giuliani blamed Mayor Emanuel - formerly Barack Obama's White House chief of staff - and decades of "one party Democratic rule" in a series of tweets on Sunday and Monday.

Giuliani  who is supporting former Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy as mayoral candidate  also falsely claimed that Chicago had "63 murders this weekend."

Most of the shootings happened in poor neighbourhoods on the West and South Sides where gangs are entrenched, said Police Superintendent Eddie Johnson.

Days before the attacks, about 200 protesters marched through a wealthy North Side neighbourhood and briefly blocked a highway, calling for more resources to stem violence in poor areas.

Tio Hardiman, one of the organisers, said members of the black community need to take the initiative by mediating truces between gangs.

People react to the weekend of violence outside the Stroger Hospital in Chicago / AP

Chicago ended 2017 with fewer homicides, 650, than 2016, when there were 771.

Although the drop was significant, it exceeded the combined number of killings in New York City and Los Angeles, which are the two US cities bigger than Chicago.

Police told a press conference on Monday that no arrests had yet been made in any of the weekend shootings.
A Czech subway driver let two young women take control of his passenger train as part of competition daring them to drive something unusual across Prague.

The Prague Transport Authority called the behaviour "unacceptable after a clip from inside the drivers cab was posted on the LowCost Races website.

It shows the pair take selfies in the cab before climbing into the driver's seat.

One woman excitedly pushes a button, making the passenger train move, while the driver stands alongside her.

Her friend then sits in his seat while and appears to use a lever to control the speed of the locomotive.

The race takes two-member teams with a limited budget across Europe with the winner travelling the furthest.

The pair involved in the incident in Prague faced a challenge to "drive something unusual" as the race started on Friday.

Prague Transport Authority spokeswoman Aneta Rehkova says it was a failure of the driver and a serious breach of working rules. The driver now faces an unspecified punishment.

Rehkova says the passengers' security was not threatened.

Race spokesman Miky Skoda said he is happy nothing serious happened and claimed the organisers did not encourage the racers to drive the subway train.
A German mother who sold her son to paedophiles on the dark web has been jailed for 12 and a half years.

The womans partner was also jailed for 12 years following a trial at a court in Freiburg, southern Germany.

Berrin Taha, 48, and Christian Lais, 39, were convicted of abusing and raping the boy, aged 10, and forced prostitution over a period of two years.

The couple were also ordered to pay 42,500 (38,000) in compensation to the boy and another victim, a young girl. The boy is now living with a foster family.

They were arrested along with six others last autumn following an investigation by police. A Spanish man was jailed for ten years for sexually abusing the boy in a separate trial on Monday.
A hurricane-force storm is set to lash the southwestern coast of Mexico, causing downpours and huge swells that pose a danger to life.

Neither Hurricane John nor the lesser Tropical Storm Ileana are expected to make landfall, but meteorologists at the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned that conditions at the coast will be perilous.

The NHC said: "Swells generated by John are expected to begin affecting the coasts of southwestern Mexico and the southern portion of the Baja California peninsula during the next day or so."

The swells are likely to cause "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions," it added, but it is not believed there is any current threat to land.

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Tropical Storm Ileana formed earlier than John, on Sunday, and was expected initially to strengthen.

But now it is forecast to gradually weaken and dissipate by late Tuesday because of the wind-shear effects of the larger hurricane, which will effectively rip it apart.

Hurricane John formed off of Mexico's Pacific coast on Monday before strengthening into a hurricane and it is now expected to track parallel to the Mexican coastline.

John was located about 320 miles southwest of Cabo Corrientes, Mexico, and 435 miles south of the southern tip of Baja California early on Tuesday, with maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour.

By late afternoon it was moving northwest at a speed of 8 mph.
R escuers searching for survivors of a devastating earthquake in Indonesia have been forced to dig by hand as a lack of equipment is hampering their efforts.

Officials said some rescue staff were struggling to reach possible survivors under the rubble of a mosque that collapsed on the island of Lombok.

About 40 people were believed to have been inside the mosque when the 6.9-magnitude earthquake hit, according to reports.

National Disaster Mitigation Agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said efforts were being hampered by a lack of heavy equipment available.

Pictures showed tourists packed on a beach waiting to evacuate the Gili Islands, just off Lombok, as it emerged 200 people were seriously injured and thousands of homes were damaged.

Search and rescue members look for victims at a mosque that collapsed following a 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Tanjong, North Lombok / AFP/Getty Images

Most of the casualties were in Lombok, which had suffered an earlier deadly earthquake just days ago on July 29, while two people died in Bali.

The British Government is sending consular staff to the earthquake-shattered island after hundreds of tourists were left stranded.

7.0 magnitude earthquake hits Indonesia 1 /24 7.0 magnitude earthquake hits Indonesia AP People recover a motorcycle from a damaged home near a mosque after a strong earthquake in Gunungsari, West Lombok, Indonesia Reuters Chief Water Police of Lombok Dewa Wijaya takes a picture in front of hundreds of people attempting to leave the Gili Islands after an earthquake Gili Trawangan, in Lombok, Indonesia Reuters Reuters Rescuers evacuate residents from smaller islands after an earthquake struck in North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia EPA Patients are evacuated outside to the Mataram City hospital parking lot after the quake struck Reuters Foreign tourists carry their belongings on the beach as they leave Gili Trawangan island after an earthquake hit Lombok island in Pamenang, Indonesia REUTERS A damaged home is seen following a strong earthquake in Pemenang, North Lombok, Indonesia Reuters Foreign tourists and hotel staff stand on the street after being evacuated in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Images Patients are seen outside a hospital Reuters Indonesian soldiers tend to a woman injured in the earthquake at a makeshift hospital in Lombok AP A policeman examines debris that fell and crushed parked motorbikes Reuters People clean up debris after the 7.0 magnitude quake struck on Sunday Reuters A motorcycle is seen on the ground of a mall in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Images Foreign tourists stand on the street afer being evacuated from their hotel in Bali's capital Denpasar AFP/Getty Images Bikes are seen covered in debris in Denpasar after a major earthquake rocked the neighbouring island of Lombok AFP/Getty Images A person is evacuated to the parking lot outside the Mataram City hospital with other patient Reuters A temple is seen partially collapsed in Badung in Bali island AFP/Getty Images A Balinese temple is seen partially collapsed AFP/Getty Images Workers cleanup parts of a shopping mall building which collapsed after an earthquake, in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia EPA Parts of a shopping mall building collapsed after an earthquake was felt in Denpasar, Bali EPA People crowd on the shore as they attempt to leave the Gili Islands after an earthquake Gili Trawangan, in Lombok, Indonesia Reuters A damaged home is seen following a strong earthquake in Pemenang, North Lombok, Indonesia Reuters Reuters

A visitor from London, 28-year-old James Kelsall of Woodford Green, described scenes of terror and chaos after he was caught up in the disaster.

He and his partner Helen became stranded on the tiny island of Gili Trawangan when the 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck.

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Speaking from a beach as he awaited evacuation, the teacher told reporters: "There were lots of injuries and pain on the island from buildings that had collapsed onto people.

"The most terrifying part was the tsunami warning that followed. All the locals were frantically running and screaming, putting on life jackets.

Everything you need to know about travel and safety advice following the Indonesian earthquake

"We followed them up to higher ground, which was a steep, uneven climb to the top of a hill in darkness."

National Disaster Mitigation Agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho told a news conference that damage was "massive" in the north of Lombok.

Some areas still hadn't been reached, while rescuers were hampered by collapsed bridges, electricity blackouts and damaged roads blocked with debris.
W est Hollywood City Council has passed a unanimous resolution calling for Donald Trumps star to be removed from the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The five-member city council cited the costs of repeated vandalism and demonstrations around the star as it passed the measure on Monday evening.

It will now send a formal letter to Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, the Los Angeles City Council and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to call for the stars removal.

West Hollywood Mayor John Duran announced the move in a tweet in which he criticised the US president for un-American values.

West Hollywood City council unanimously passes resolution asking the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce to remove the Donald Trump star on Hollywood Walk of Fame, he wrote.

The star, unveiled in 2007, has become a battleground for Mr Trumps supporters and opponents and has been attacked multiple times since the 2016 presidential campaign.

Donald Trump's star was unveiled in 2007 / AP

The defendant left the scene but turned himself into a police department the following day, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney.

The star was recently smashed apart by a vandal / Getty Images

If convicted, Clay could face a possible maximum sentence of three years in jail. Bail is recommended at 20 thousand US dollars (15,400).
S tories of missing children hold a particular morbid fascination, which resonates through time.

Some of us are still mulling over what happened to Danny Latimer in Broadchurch, or who killed Lucy Beale in EastEnders. The story of Thomas Clifton, however, has had less attention. So theres plenty to investigate in this intriguing Tudor true-crime.

On the morning of December 13, 1600, 13-year-old Clifton waved goodbye to his father and headed off to school near St Pauls. But he never arrived at class. On his walk through the City of London, he was kidnapped. An account written later describes how he was dragged away with great force and violence, to his great terror.

This was a hard time to be a child yes, even more challenging than it is for todays snowflakes. There was no protective infrastructure and they had few rights. As a result, their stories are often missing from history. But Cliftons tale had ramifications that went right to the heart of power. His kidnapper was a high-flying theatre impresario with the patronage of Queen Elizabeth I.

BBC Four: Katherine Rundell at Hampton Court Palace on the trail of Elizabeth Is abducted child actors / BBC/Wingspan Productions

Childrens author Katherine Rundell brings Cliftons tale to life with great spirit (BBC Four).

She writes for people the same age as Clifton was and relishes getting into his shoes, thinking about the December chill he would have felt on his walk and how afraid he must have been as she retraces his steps through a sun-dappled modern London. In her husky tones she brings drama and mystery to the story, telling us it is darker than we can imagine and reflects many of our deepest fears today.

Rundell has self-deprecatingly tweeted about her visibly Herculean struggle to walk and talk at the same time presenting but you cant tell  she is a natural. Her enthusiasm is infectious and she has a deft command of this complicated story, cracking the odd joke about members of the theatrical company being good-looking. She admires a man with a strong moustache. Fans of Wolf Hall will lap this up but its interesting enough to go beyond niche appeal.

This is partly thanks to London-based illustrator Ella Baron and Andy ACourts charming animation of Clifton, a wide-eyed innocent with curly hair, and his abductors  sharkish child-catchers who cast long shadows.

We know that Clifton was taken by Henry Evans to join his theatre group of boy actors  not only were children free labour but they could break boundaries in plays, saying things that would be unacceptable coming from adults. They performed at Blackfriars, and Evans charged high prices for tickets  far more than Shakespeares Globe  drawing an elite crowd of minor nobility and Elizabeth I herself. The programme played to that, with shows designed to flatter the monarch. William Shakespeare disapproved, with a direct jibe in Hamlet about boy actors being applauded despite their terrible acting.

Pictured: Thomas Clifton - the boy abducted for the Elizabethan stage / BBC/Wingspan Productions/Ella Baron

But Evans picked the wrong child in Clifton, because he was middle class and had a father who was determined to get him back.

Context is crucial  this happened against a political backdrop of uncertainty and culture wars. The puritans were on the attack against the lascivious theatre, while Elizabeth I was ailing.

Rundell goes to King Edward VI School in Stratford-upon-Avon, where Shakespeare is likely to have gone, to meet boys who still perform the Ben Jonson plays Clifton was in.

As one of the academics Rundell speaks to says, this insight into the life of one boy sheds light on a whole range of topics  early modern England, attitudes to boys, masculinity and power. Even if you dont think you like history documentaries, this is engaging because its about humanity and influence, and that is timeless.

London Live

The Dark Charisma of Adolf Hitler - London Live, 8pm

A lesson that bears repeating time and time again, with neo-Nazis labelled very fine people and racists advised to wear that term as a badge of honour, is how fascism takes root and wraps its odious tentacles around nations.

It doesnt start with jackboots kicking doors in, it begins with vague promises of making a nation great again. Tie that to a talent for oratory and you have this two-part documentary, which explores how a failed coup leader became the byword for evil.

Spooks - London Live, 9pm

Summer is a time when diaries are packed with weddings  you might even have up to four to attend  although for the team at Thames House this season is a time for a black suit or black veil.This nightly run of episodes begins with the funeral of former colleague Danny.
G oogle has released its brand new version of Android, named Android Pie, and it's full of exciting new features.

The ninth version of Android has been codenamed Android P for the past few months.

With the announcement of its new name, Google has also revealed how Android Pie is going to make your smartphone work better for you.

Here are all the new features to look out for in Android Pie.

Android Pie: what you need to know

As part of the launch of Android 9, Google says artificial intelligence (AI) is baked into the new operating software.

The OS has features such as an adaptive battery, which learns about the apps you use the most and prioritises battery for them, as well as adaptive brightness, which learns how you use the brightness settings on your phone.

Google says it worked with machine learning specialists DeepMind on this new feature.

Also in the AI theme, there is a new element called App Actions. This predicts what youll do next based on the context and displays that action on your phone.

If the first thing you do on a weekday morning is to check the weather and your commute, your smartphone will suggest Google Maps.

Its little things like this that will make your smartphone truly smart and helpful during your day.

It wouldn't be Android Pie if there weren't some pie-related settings. The new Slices feature promises it will offer a deeper look into your favourite apps.

"If you search for 'Lyft' in Google search, you can see an interactive Slice that gives your the price and time for a trip to work, and it's interactive so you can quickly order the ride," explained Google.

In addition, a new system navigation is coming to your smartphone with a single home button.

As phones grow taller its more difficult to get things done on your phone with one hand. With a single clean home button, you can swipe up to see a newly designed Overview, the spot where at a glance you have full-screen previews of your recently used apps, said Google.

As well, Android Pie introduces redesigned quick settings, simplified volume controls and an easier way to manage notifications.

Google is all about digital wellbeing

The big topic for tech companies this year has been digital wellbeing. So far, companies such as Apple, Facebook and Instagram have all introduced tools aimed at getting people to be more aware of the time theyre spending online and how to reduce it.

Google is introducing a similar feature in Android Pie. A new Dashboard is coming to your Android device that shows you how much time youre spending on it.

There is an App Timer that lets people set limits on the apps and greys out the icon on the home screen when the time is up so you dont see it when using your phone.

As well, there is a Do Not Disturb setting which silences the visual notifications on your screen and Wind Down, which turns on the do not disturb features and fades the screen to greyscale before you go to sleep.

However, the digital detox features won't be available on Android phones for a few months, unless you want to sign up to the beta.

When is Android Pie coming to my smartphone?

If you have a Pixel smartphone, you will be getting all the Android Pie updates from today, except the digital detox elements.

Other Android smartphones, such as Sony, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus and Essential will receive the update by the end of the autumn, Google says, as these devices are all part of the Beta programme.
Wrong wings: Man allegedly shoots at father after disputed food run

FARMINGTON  A Bountiful man brought home the wrong variety of chicken wings and his son allegedly tried to shoot him, police said in charging documents. The Davis County Attorneys Office on Tuesday filed a first-degree felony attempted-murder charge against Alika Suliafu, 31, stemming from the Thursday incident. When (Suliafu) discovered the wings were not the variety he liked, he became upset and began to argue, a Bountiful police probable cause statement said. Suliafu went to another room and returned with a firearm, allegedly pointing it at his father. The father begged ...
STEM School Chattanooga was one of two schools in the United States invited to participate in a leadership cohort for scaling digital fabrication in K-12 education in France. "The opportunity for STEM Chattanooga teachers to attend the Fab14 event was a result of the schools excellent STEM work recognized by MIT and the Fab Foundation, the world leaders in making and digital fabrication,: officials said. As part of the leadership cohort, seven STEM School Chattanooga staff traveled to Toulouse, France to participate in FAB14, the international convening of digital fabrication experts from around the world.



Over the course of seven days, the STEM School team, comprised of Jim David, Tony Donen, Ken Kranz, Zach McCoy, Kim Stanley, David Vanzant and Sue Williamson networked and learned from the worlds top experts, officials said. The STEM School staff also led sessions on how to integrate digital fabrication into K-12 classrooms.



Digital fabrication is accelerating at a rapid approach in society, said Dr. Tony Donen, principal of STEM School Chattanooga. As part of the experience at Fab14, we worked with experts who are creating 3D printed food machines where you can choose the vitamins and minerals you want in your food, Airbus staff combining autonomous vehicles with personal flight vehicles, and companies creating collaborative fabrication lab networks to develop the worlds largest manufacturing sector.

The group also heard from government officials who are reforming entire educational structures to re-think how they leverage students to be global leaders in the digital transformation.

It is estimated that there will be 1 million labs in place within ten years, Dr. Donen added. It is our responsibility as educators to prepare our students for this world and that is why I am proud to represent STEM School Chattanooga as an educational leader in this work and even prouder to be part of the Chattanooga community which has embraced preparing our students for this ever-evolving world.
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Minister of Foreign Affairs Teodor Melescanu said on Tuesday that the document analyzing the possibility and opportuneness of moving the Romanian Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem is sent to state secretaries to be signed and then presented to the Presidency, the heads of Parliament's Chambers and the prime minister.

"Following a Government's approval, I have initiated an analysis into the issue of relocating the Embassy of Romania from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, a document prepared by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the participation of a large number of ministries and specialized services.

We put on two columns the advantages and the disadvantages, what are the legal issues raised by such an initiative, given that there is the Security Council resolution 478, which states directly that all countries must have embassies in Tel Aviv in their diplomatic relations with Israel," the minister said.He said that at this stage, only one signature of a state secretary is still needed."This document was drafted together with all the ministries on security and defense matters, as well as on economic and trade matters, and so on, and currently one more signature is needed - a state secretary from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, after which we will present this document to the Presidency, the speakers of the two Chambers and the prime minister, so that we have a basis to discuss this issue seriously," he said."It can already be sent now to have all the elements available so that he can make an informed decision. The most important thing from the point of view of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is to have a common position from all political decision-makers," Melescanu added.Asked whether there are more advantages or disadvantages in moving the embassy, according to the said document, Melescanu replied: "They cannot be quantified. There are advantages and disadvantages in such an activity. From our point of view, a very important role is represented by the legal area."At the same time, the head of the Romanian diplomacy was asked how the country's candidacy for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council would be affected by the fact that Romania is considering the possibility of moving the embassy."In connection with the Security Council, we have written arrangements to support the candidacy. I believe that a word given must be kept. We will see to what extent it has an impact or not on the topic of moving the embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in the coming period. We hope very quickly to reach a common conclusion which, if you wish, will clarify things from this point of view," the foreign minister said.He stressed Romania's involvement in solving the conflict in the Middle East."From our point of view, there is no country that is more concerned about finding a political solution to the crisis in the Middle East," he said.In this respect, Melescanu reminded that "10 per cent of the population of Israel comes from Romanian emigrants and their descendants"."We have a very strong link of interest," he said. He also recalled the Romanian support for the Palestinian community."During the pre-democratic period, during the communist period, Romania was one of the most generous countries in providing support to the Palestinians, including through scholarships and specialization courses," Melescanu added.
The Facebook logo is displayed for a photograph on an Apple iPhone. The social network is reportedly seeking users' bank information. (Andrew Harrer / Bloomberg)
In their recent letter to the government of Romania, US Senators John McCain and Christopher Murphy also mention Romania's success in the fight against corruption, Foreign Minister Teodor Melescanu said during a press conference delivered on the occasion of the presentation of the Ministry's six-month stocktaking report.

The Romanian chief diplomat was also asked about the letter the two US Senators sent Premier Viorica Dancila to express their concern over the dismissal of the Chief Prosecutor of the National Anticorruption Directorate, and urging the Bucharest Government not to retreat in the fight against corruption.

"There are some key elements - the first refers to Romania's success in the fight against corruption and in having set in place a democratic system, which for us is a very solid guarantee of the way these activities have developed. Reference is also made to certain possible abuses," said the Foreign Minister.

Melescanu said that "at the same time, the letter also conveys a very clear message about the wish to see anti-corruption activities continue and the US Senate's willingness to dialogue on this subject with the Romanian authorities."



The two Senators wrote that they note with regret that President Klaus Iohannis was recently forced by a court ruling to dismiss Laura Codruta Kovesi, the Chief Prosecutor of the National Anticorruption Directorate. While the judicial procedure is an internal matter, they further ask the Romanian Government not to retreat in the important fight against corruption.



Romania has made extraordinary progress since the communist era. No democracy is perfect, but previous concrete efforts to root out corruption assured us that Romania is on a positive trajectory. Recent demonstrations by thousands of young Romanians show that they expect this progress to continue, the two Senators write, adding that they appreciate PM Dancila's personal commitment to fulfilling these aspirations and are looking forward to learning how the Dancila government is planning to reinvigorate the fight against corruption.
President Klaus Iohannis deems that the budget rectification as announced by the government is "a gross violation of and an attempt to bar through budgetary constraints, the activity of a fundamental institution," on Tuesday said the Romanian President's spokeswoman Madalina Dobrovolschi.

"As regards the Presidential Administration, the President of Romania deems that the budget rectification as announced is a gross violation of and an attempt to bar through budgetary constraints, the activity of a fundamental institution. The consequences upon the actions of the President of Romania and implicitly upon the representation of the Romanian state are serious. After several attempts from the current parliamentary majority to cut off the prerogatives of Romania's President, it is the Government now that is resorting to this kind of budgetary sabotage. Regardless of what the current ruling political decision-makers think, this is not about Klaus Iohannis, this is about the Romanian state and its citizens, as well," Dobrovolschi said at the Cotroceni Palace.

According to the President's spokeswoman, the budget rectification has nothing to do with the need of enhancing the national budget, it is just "a tool for budget sanctioning the political opponents and the institutions that are not subordinated to the ruling PSD."Madalina Dobrovolschi also specified that the Presidential Administration has learned last week from the Prime Minister's statements and subsequently from a document released on the gov't's website that it is placed on a list with the state institutions that are to have a negative rectification of over 10 million lei."To include the Presidential Administration on that list is all the more surprising as the Public Finance Ministry had initially informed that the budget was to be slashed by 2.869 million lei, which represented 10 pct of the <> and <> chapters. On Friday the 3rd of August 2018, after talks between the representatives of the Gov't and of the Presidential Administration following the release of the document above-mentioned on the Gov't website, we've learned that in fact the budget of the presidential body is tabled to be slashed by 11.109 million lei, an amount resulted from 13-million lei cut offs concomitantly with the addition of the necessary sums for the staff spending," Dobrovolschi said.She specified that the Presidential Administration has sent an address to the Government wherein it says why such a huge rectification, nearly 19 pct of the budget initially approved, would practically bar this year's activity, presenting with arguments the needs of financing for the third quarter of 2018."The Government has knowingly ignored all of the arguments and upheld its decision to cut the budget credits, as the ordinance draft published last evening (Monday, ed. n.) for public consultation on the Public Finance Ministry's website says. Thus we have the clear proof that the cut of the Presidential Administration's budget is an arbitrary decision, based on strictly political reasons. Given the circumstances, the Gov't is just preventing the President of Romania from fulfilling the exercising of their constitutional attributions,' Madalina Dobrovolschi stressed.According to the president's spokeswoman, on Tuesday the Presidential Administration has sent the Public Finance Ministry a new address in which it demanded the modification of the budget rectification file in accordance with the initial decision as agreed with the ministry's officials."It falls on the Government to establish the budget of each institution, and yet the Government cannot affect through its decisions the functioning of any state institution. By doing so, the Government would practically use the public finance as a political tool," Dobrovolschi added.
FCC Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel, the only Democrat left on the agency, released a statement Monday: "The Inspector General Report tells us what we knew all along: the FCC's claim that it was the victim of a DDoS attack during the net neutrality proceeding is bogus. What happened instead is obvious  millions of Americans overwhelmed our online system because they wanted to tell us how important internet openness is to them and how distressed they were to see the FCC roll back their rights."
As part of the agreement, Laureate, a publicly traded company operating a global network of for-profit colleges, will pay up to $14 million to support construction of the new facilities, which are expected to be completed by next summer. Megahed said there is a sense of urgency attached to that target based on Laureates plans to repurpose the Goose Island campus.
Energy today seems like the very essence of international politics. No overview of current world affairs is meaningful without an examination of the role played by energy. Energy producers, energy consumers, and energy transporters in any country become more important in accordance with the role they play. The study of world affairs requires an understanding of global energy dynamics. What happens above the ground, under the ground, or among nations contributes to the definition of peace and coexistence in various regions of the planet. By addressing questions of availability and the acquisition of energy we paint a complete picture of the situation throughout the world. When inquiries about energy have not been answered, nothing has been fully answered.

There are issues that need to be explored in relation to energy and its importance to world affairs. We can sketch out some of them, starting with the importance of the issues of security.

These are: Security from energy shortages, security from events above the ground, the security of energy transportation, security from financial turmoil, and European energy security.

1. Security from inadequate energy

It is of crucial importance for every sovereign nation to have guaranteed supplies of energy. Some are blessed with the ability to produce enough energy (oil or gas) supplies to satisfy their needs and export to others. These countries, apart from being energy sufficient, are also quite wealthy due to their ample resources. They do however face problems of their own. The availability of natural resources leads nations to serious economic problems. The inflow of foreign currency raises exchange rates, making any domestic products very expensive  thus hurting exports while imports become cheap and very attractive. In this way domestic industry suffers and consumers turn to foreign imported goods. Consequently, the economy becomes focused only on one industry, the export of natural resources, namely energy, while all other economic activities are marginalized.

It is therefore imperative for countries rich in national resources, especially in energy, to make a serious effort to diversify their industries and embark on entrepreneurial initiatives to produce their own consumer goods.

2. Security from events above the ground

Energy policy needs to take into account various parameters in regard to security and its diplomatic outreaches. Many observers have commented on something that sounds strange at first. To a large extent the price of gas and oil and the issues affecting the security of energy supplies are determined more by occurrences above the ground rather than those under the surface of the earth. Very often it is events having to do with civil wars, interstate conflicts, religious fanaticism, acts of terrorism, and various types of national disasters (floods, fires, hurricanes, earthquakes, snowstorms, motorway or train accidents, etc.) that have a greater impact on the availability of energy. In most of these circumstances there are usually severe disruptions in the supply of energy with disastrous effects on the prices as well as the availability of the aforementioned products.

It goes without saying that other domestic events may have similar disconcerting effects on energy security. A countrys legal system, the smooth functioning of its judiciary, and its political culture are reflected in its stability and the state of its public finances, which may affect its level of governability, along with its stability on the energy front. In in the end, almost every aspect of public life may be crucial to the very sensitive issue of energy costs and security.

3. Security of energy transportation

In addition to the energy-producing countries, those states that play host to the major oil and gas pipelines are also important for the availability of energy worldwide. The use of these transport hubs is crucial for global welfare. As a result, these nations play a significant role in diplomacy, since their whims are important for the welfare of the energy producers as well as for the consumers. It goes without saying that energy diplomacy is closely intertwined with the courting of nations that sit on the transport routes of the various pipelines.

Countries with landlocked energy resources are particularly vulnerable to the availability of transport routes. It is much easier for energy producers when they have direct access to major ports and can thus establish oil and gas terminals to export their products. By means of fluctuating prices, producers lure transport nations to their side, thus facilitating exports and their own financial intake.

This is indicative of the importance of diplomacy in securing a safe and sustainable supply of energy. Diplomacy therefore goes hand-in-hand with energy security. This is true at every level of the production, transportation, and, finally, the supply chain.

4. Security from financial turmoil

There can be no question that stable finances set the picture for a nations welfare. For every energy-producing nation, it is of paramount importance to control its public finances so that energy remittances can be directed toward preordained programs. In this way, internal economic stability is sustained, export schedules are met, and the country may extend its strength to its neighbors, thus fulfilling its diplomatic goals and overall geostrategic aims.

5. European energy security

It is crucial for Europes well-being for it to secure its energy supplies. For many years North Sea oil was crucial for the continents supplies. Russia always played a major role in its shipments of oil (by means of the Druzhba or Friendship pipeline passing through Lithuania and Poland) and gas. Even in the darkest years of the Cold War, Russian supplies were never interrupted. The need for foreign currency appeared to be much more important than ideology in the years of the Soviet Union. In the same way today Russia is a reliable business partner in its energy deals with Europe.

However, the diminishing oil reserves in the North Sea and the proliferation (actual or proposed) of gas pipelines from Russia to Europe have raised concerns about the continent relying overwhelmingly on Russian energy. At first glance the qualms appear to be valid. The conflict in Ukraine has raised concerns about Russia employing the energy weapon against Europe. Real life, however, shows us something different. Russia would have much to gain, and equally a lot to lose, should it unleash the energy weapon against Europe. There are large sums of money at stake, and it is not to Moscows advantage to jeopardize these remittances just for political gains. The Russians never did so in the past. It is doubtful they would attempt to do so in the future.

The most recent discoveries of shale gas in the US and Canada makes it possible for the West in the case of an emergency to amply provide Europe with energy security, were Russia to cut its own supplies. Likewise, there appear to be plans for new gas terminals to be built in Europe, so that liquid gas could be transported there across the Atlantic.

Whats more, gas pipelines from the Caspian Sea and Azerbaijan (the Trans Adriatic Pipeline, or TAP) are in the works, so that Southern Europe would be guaranteed a safe supply of gas from these sources.

Energy and Diplomacy

Anxiety is easing about energy security in the West. Energy diplomacy, however, will always play a crucial role in the way states project their power and image beyond their national borders. This will continue, irrespective of ideological differences, alliances, or geopolitical shifts.

For countries with considerable energy reserves, their consequent economic strength will enable them to play a major role in world affairs. Their political influence upon other, poorer parts of the world will emanate from the strength they derive from the affluence that energy has brought them. Russia is able, as it was in the past, to utilize the power of its energy production to assist countries on its periphery, as well as nations in other parts of the world, enabling them to tackle difficulties and overcome hardship.

Likewise the US, due to its recent shale gas revolution, may be better strategically placed to guarantee the energy security of those nations that would otherwise find themselves on the brink of collapse.

Other nations, i.e. Saudi Arabia and Qatar, among others, utilize their financial strength to play a major role in the Middle East or in Islamic politics in general.

Diplomacy therefore is closely intertwined with energy. Big energy suppliers are able to move away from political marginalization and enter the mainstream arena of international politics. In our era, energy protagonists will also play the leads in the drama of geopolitics.
The room between rows  measured from a point on one seat to the same point on the seat in the next row  has been shrinking for many years as airlines squeeze more seats onto their planes. It was once commonly 34 or 35 inches, and is now under 30 inches on some planes.
Donald Trump is not the only American politician to be striving for a better relationship with Moscow in defiance of multiple opponents who are raising a ruckus about his stance on Russia. The hysterical reaction to the US presidents summit with the Russian leader in Helsinki did not keep Republican Senator Rand Paul from doing what he believes is right  going to Moscow as the head of a US delegation, which also included Texas State Senator Don Huffines and the president of the Cato Institute, Peter Goettler, in order to spur contacts with Russian lawmakers.

During the talks in Moscow on Aug.6, he invited Russian senators to visit Washington. Today, I met with Chairman Kosachev, and we agreed on the importance of continued dialogue. I invited the Russian Federation to send a delegation to the Capitol, and they have agreed to take this important next step, Mr. Paul stated. Itll be the first Russian parliamentary delegation to have traveled to Washington in nearly three years. The senator thinks "our biggest problem right now is no dialogue," emphasizing that "engagement is vital to our national security and peace around the world."

Last year, Rand Paul, who sits on the Foreign Relations Committee, was one of two senators who voted against the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, which included massive sanctions against Russia. Prior to that, he had voted against Montenegros NATO membership, which was also opposed by Moscow. According to Sen. Paul, Currently, the United States has troops in dozens of countries and is actively fighting in Iraq, Syria, Libya, and Yemen (with the occasional drone strike in Pakistan). In addition, the United States is pledged to defend twenty-eight countries in NATO. It is unwise to expand the monetary and military obligations of the United States given the burden of our $20 trillion debt.

Unlike the majority of US lawmakers, he viewed the results of the Trump-Putin summit in Helsinki in a positive light. The event prompted him to make the decision to visit Moscow and thus make a contribution to the process of gradually turning the tide in the direction of the bilateral relationship. His intention was to find and discuss common ground with Russian leaders and help prevent further, unnecessary escalation of tensions. He claims that millions of lives could be at stake. The senator wants to improve the hostile climate created by Russophobes, which has resulted in a vacuum in cultural, educational and even legislative exchanges.

Rand Paul has represented the state of Kentucky in the Senate since 2011. The senator is the son of former Republican Representative Ron Paul of Texas, a famous politician who sought the presidency three times, once running on the Libertarian Party ticket and twice as a candidate in the GOP primaries. He attracted attention for his criticism of the Federal Reserve System, the influence of bankers on political life, Americas aggressive foreign policy, and NATO, as well as the bloated state of government and the Washington swamp. Ron Paul has always enjoyed strong support among the ranks of the Republicans.

Rand Paul belongs to those few in Congress who do not applaud the plans for NATO expansion, including into Montenegro. In support of his opposition to the idea, he has cited George Kennan, who wrote that NATO expansion would be a fateful error that would inflame the nationalistic, anti-Western and militaristic tendencies in Russian opinion and restore the atmosphere of the cold war to East-West relations. The senator wants the US-led NATO operation in Afghanistan to come to an end. As he put it, I continue to encourage President Trump that he would be a hero if he could end the Afghan war. In general, Rand Paul believes the time has come for a new American foreign policy.

Affiliated with the Tea Party and supported by the Republican Liberty Caucus, Rand Paul was also a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination in 2016. Back then, he said that if elected, his first foreign trip would be to Moscow or Beijing. Like his father, the senator is well-known for being an independent thinker and square shooter. He is one of those who marches to the beat of his own drum and was under no ones influence as he was coming around to the point of view that the relations with Russia should be normalized. He believes US intelligence services have far too big a role in American politics. Rand Paul defends President Trump, criticizing the very idea of the Russia investigation, which he calls a witch-hunt.

As President Trump did in Helsinki, during his visit to Moscow Sen. Rand mentioned the need to address the problem of the erosion of arms control. Two of the men who vied for the Republican nomination in 2016  Donald Trump and Rand Paul  support the idea of reversing the dangerous trends in the US-Russian bilateral relationship. In Moscow, Senator Paul promised to obstruct those in the Senate who want to toughen and expand the sanctions against Russia.

In July, a group of US senators visited Moscow before the Trump-Putin summit. Despite the tensions, the lawmakers of both countries are engaged in a dialog. President Trump is in a strong position and feels rather confident as the run-up to the November midterms begins. The more criticism he receives, the stronger he gets. Rand Paul is well aware hell come under attack upon returning home from his Russia trip, but he likely did what he did because he believes itll pay off.

Things change, and those who are under fire today may end up the winners tomorrow. Senator Paul stands out for his individual views on a number of issues, including Russia. So did presidential candidate Donald Trump. Few predicted hed become president, but he won the election. Mr. Trump was lambasted for a lot of things and polling poorly at the beginning of his term, but that has all changed now. The GOP is predicted to do well during the midterm elections and those who support the president are expected to come out as winners. Although seemingly going against the tide today, Rand Paul may be getting off to a good start to launch a successful run for the presidency in 2024.
Such important reality as is shown in this picture is virtually unpublishable in mainstream US newsmedia, because US newsmedia need to deceive their public about the most important international realities  such as that the US imposed upon Ukraine a nazi regime against Russia, and the US now lies to accuse Russia for doing what Russia must do in order to protect itself from the US nazi regime next-door.

This picture is among many which were originally published in the excellent 4 July 2018 article by Asa Winstanley at The Electronic Intifada. His article was headlined "Israel is arming neo-Nazis in Ukraine. That article focuses upon Israels strong support for the racist-fascist (or ideologically nazi) Government of Ukraine. (Click onto it to see the documentation  its Israeli nazis, against Russians, not against Jews, though theyre allied with ones that are against both, which is why the US did this  aiming to conquer ultimately Russia.)

Israel does this as part of the US-led coalition in support of the current racist-fascist Government of Ukraine, which Government was installed in a bloody coup that US President Barack Obama started planning by no later than 2011 and started operationalizing on 1 March 2013 and carried out in February 2014 under the cover of US State Department and CIA-generated anti-corruption mass demonstrations on Kievs Maidan square, but some of whose US-funded snipers have already gone public (though not in US 'news'media) describing how they were hired to do it, and how they did it.

How, then, can anybody believe the US newsmedia, which hide these clear realities, instead of ever having reported them to the duped American public?

The US Governments anti-Russian sanctions, and its NATO exercises with US missiles and tanks on and near Russias borders, are based upon the US governments lies, not upon the truths that this photo represents and which will here be explained.

In US newsmedia, the overthrow and replacement of Ukraines democratically elected government was the Maidan Revolution, or the 2014 Ukrainian revolution, not Obamas coup in Ukraine. They lie blatantly, and theyll never be truthful about their having done it. Thus, George Friedman, the founder and owner of the private CIA firm Stratfor, called it the most blatant coup in history, but only when speaking to a Russian publication  and, then, when he got flak from the US regime for having said that, he denied he had said it. The lies are that mandatory.

The person at the center of this photo above, is Andrei Biletsky (or Beletsky), whose Battalion is directly armed by US taxpayers (i.e., by the US Government). He has publicly stated the Battalions and his own ideology, as being socialism defined as negation of democracy; racism as being defined as against Semites and the sub-humans they use; and finally as being defined as affirmation of imperialism so as to create a Third Empire [a Ukrainian Third Reich]; and, here are just a few excerpts from his ideological statement, which is lifted from Hitler but with Ukrainian replacing German:



Ukrainian Social Nationalism

[symbol is presented here of the inverted Nazi Wolfsangel sign, the same symbol thats behind Beletsky in that photo just above here]

The main idea of mystical Social Nationalism is its creation, consisting not of piles of separate individuals united mechanistically into something called Ukrainian and the presence of Ukrainian passport, but instead a single National biological organism, which will consist of a new people  a physically, intellectually and spiritually more highly developed people. From the mass of individuals will thus come forth the nation, and the faint start of modern man: Superman.

Social Nationalism is based on a number of fundamental principles that clearly distinguish it from other right-wing movements. This triad is: socialism, racism, imperialism.

I. Socialism. We fight to create a harmonious national community. 

On the principle of socialism follows our complete negation of democracy and liberalism, which generate rozbytthya Nation isolated on gray power unit and a crowd of famous personalities (ochlocracy). Instead, we put forward the idea of national solidarity, the natural hierarchy and discipline, as the basis of our new society. Not a democratic vote crowd, who cannot give councils to their own life, much less to the life of the State, but instead natural selection of the best representatives of the Nation  born-leaders as Ukraines leaders. 

II. Racism. All our nationalism is nothing  just a castle in the sand  without reliance on the foundation of blood Races.  If Ukrainian spirituality, culture and language are unique, it is only because our racial nature is unique. If Ukraine will become paradise on earth, it is only because our Race turned it so.

Accordingly, treatment of our national body should start with racial purification of the Nation.  The historic mission of our Nation, a watershed in this century, is thus to lead the White peoples of the world in the final crusade for their survival. It is to lead the war against Semites and the sub-humans they use.

III. Imperialism. We change the slogans Independent Ukraine, United Ukraine and Ukrainians, by an imperial nation that has a long history.  The task of the present generation is to create a Third Empire [a Ukrainian Third Reich]  Great Ukraine.  Any living organism in nature seeks to expand, reproduce itself, increase its numbers. This law is universal.  Suspension means extinction in nature  death. The slowdown in population growth leads to biological death of Nations, the suspension of political expansion, and decline of the state.  If we are strong, we take what is ours by right and even more, we will build a superpower empire  Great Ukraine. 

Social Nationalism raises to shield all old Ukrainian Aryan values forgotten in modern society. Only their recovery and implementation by a group of fanatical fighters can we lead to the final victory of European civilization in the world struggle.

This stand is right, and cannot be otherwise!

Glory to Ukraine!

Andrei Beletsky



The US-imposed regime has even perpetrated massacres against Ukrainians who speak Russian, and insists upon conquering or else killing them all.

This is being supported by the taxpayers of both the US and Israel, as well as of Netherlands, Poland, and other US allies who have contributed to Beletskys Azov Battalion, and who are funding Ukraines Government, which Obama installed in 2014.

Here are Americas taxpayer-financed Ukrainian nazis teaching children in todays Ukrainian public schools, and even honoring and displaying a picture of Adolf Hitlers face. Barack Obama was a liberal, but he was also a secret racist (against Russians) fascist; and this Ukrainian Government would not exist if the prior, non-fascist and non-racist Government of Ukraine had not been overthrown and replaced by him.

For as long as Americas Democratic Party continues supporting and endorsing this Obama-installed nazi Government in Ukraine, Americas Republican Party will continue to be able to call this support by the US Government, of nazism in our time, bipartisan  because it is  but bipartisan unity on an issue doesnt mean that the policy is correct, nor even that it isnt both racist and fascist: nazi. It means merely that the media continue supporting it, instead of exposing it. They keep lying about it.

American newsmedia keep saying that if Trump were to condemn and reject the government of Ukraine, hed then be anti-American or even un-American. With rare exceptions, Americas media consistently support the US-installed Ukrainian regime. Because those exceptions are so rare, the American public, and the publics in US-allied countries, also support it. Theyve been, and are, deceived.

The Hill newspaper once was courageous enough to post an exceptional article The reality of neo-Nazis in Ukraine is far from Kremlin propaganda in which the links documented that on a thoroughly bipartisan conservative-progressive basis, the US Congress is essentially united in support of the Obama-created nazi regime in Ukraine. That is a grim situation, but its undeniably true, and it remains hidden instead of reported in American newsmedia.

And thats why the dumb coward Trump continues Obamas policies like this, instead of condemns and cancels them  its why he doesnt blame Obama for having stolen Ukraine, instead of blame Putin for having stolen Crimea. If Trump really wanted to expose the lies of Americas newsmedia, thats the first of Obamas hoaxes he would be exposing, directly to the American people, in a major address to the nation, accompanied with video clips showing the actual evidence, which would shock the nation and begin the real debate, which Americas aristocracy have been blocking.

With media like that, how can there ever be democracy in America? Will World War III be able to be avoided?

This article is being submitted to all US media, but its not likely to be published by many (if any).

So, please send this article along to all your friends, in order that this drop of truth, in the potentially explosive bucket of US newsmedia lies about Russia, will have a chance to achieve some impact. The situation is basically similar about Americas attempt to take over Syria, but the more easily exposed lies are the ones about Ukraine; and the links here document those  which are sufficient to indicate the reality of todays US Government: a Government which doesnt actually represent the American people.

This is the nonfictional, historical, version of George Orwells fictional novel, 1984. It is happening, right now.
A man who said he was a passenger on one of those flights accused the airline of breaking its contract with passengers and negligence for failing to keep enough de-icing fluid on hand to keep planes in service, according to the lawsuit seeking class-action status filed in federal court in Chicago on Friday.
Active Voice

with Chloe Petterson

Sport Bay of Plenty Insights Analyst

For the first time ever, Sport New Zealand has tracked how people are being active from ages 5 to 75. The new Active NZ survey provides a fascinating insight into activity throughout a lifetime.

Across the country 5,000 young people aged 5 to 17, and 27,000 adults aged 18+, were surveyed over the 12 months of 2017  the biggest and most comprehensive survey of physical activity yet.

Results show that 95 per cent of young people are active each week, spending an average of 11 hours on 5.4 different activities. Kids aged 12 to 14 are most active, and at levels not seen again throughout adulthood. The more physical activity young people do, the better their life satisfaction, healthy eating and sleep, and the less screen time they have.

After the later teen years of 15 to 17, physical activity levels drop and only 73 per cent of adults are active each week at half the number of hours (5.3) and half the number of activities (2.3) than young people.

Yet the survey shows that the more physical activity adults do, the better their emotional wellbeing, healthy eating, body mass index and weight  factors many adults have an interest in maintaining at an optimum level.

Interestingly the leading motivation for young people to be active is quite simply because its fun, and to hang out with family or friends. For adults, the leading motivation is physical wellbeing followed by fun.

So what causes the change from having fun to concern for wellbeing as people age?

Overwhelmingly, both young people and adults state their barriers to being active are all about time.

Competing priorities, or being too busy, is higher for teens aged 15 to 17, and continues to be higher for adults aged 18 to 49, peaking at 25 to 49. People also say they are too tired or have no energy. Yet a massive 64 per cent of young people and 74 per cent of adults say they would like to be more active.

Our job here at Sport Bay of Plenty is to encourage more people to be more active, more often.

Our future challenge is to halt the decline in the late teens and to sustain adult participation throughout aging, even when people are too busy or too tired.

The next stage of the Active NZ survey is the release of Bay of Plenty specific data later this month. That data is sure to provide a treasure trove of information about how people are participating in our region. So watch this space for more insights about what people like to do to be active in the Bay of Plenty, and what stops them from being as active as they would like.
Hospital nurses have today settled their long-running pay row with their district health board employers.

The end of the row over renewal of the multi-employer collective agreement was announced a short time ago by the nurses' union in Wellington.

Watch the announcement of the vote:

It follows a day-long strike last month and nearly a year of negotiations between both sides for 30,000 nurses in public hospitals and 20 DHBs.

A vigorous social media campaign and breakaway groups criticised and challenged the union leadership repeatedly.

The offer that was ratified today was the fifth from DHBs, worth at least $520 million.

It includes pay rises of between 12.5 and 16 percent; an earlier new pay step for senior nurses, in May 2020; a commitment to proper implementation of a staffing scheme in hospitals known as Care Capacity Demand Management (CCDM); and a commitment to pay equity by the end of next year.

The union, the Nurses Organisation, told reporters today that voter turnout in the online ballot was high with a significant majority in favour.

The union said it will now work urgently with DHBs to implement the hard-won deal.

The deal follows the announcement last week of a Government Accord with the union and DHBs designed to bolster the commitment to safe staffing by promising to deliver 500 extra nurses, at a cost of $38m regardless of the outcome of the ballot, and improved staffing under the CCDM.

The union's chief executive, Memo Musa, says today that securing this top-level extra Government assurance through the Safe Staffing Accord, over and above the requirements of the DHB NZNO MECA "shows the issues articulated by members have been heard".

"I thank our negotiating team that worked relentlessly, who were committed to getting an offer acceptable to members. We also thank our members, CTU unions affiliate members and the public who supported NZNO during the negotiations."
Bay of Plenty

If you love working out doors and in a small team then we have the role for you. We are needing someone who has either maintenance...



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Inert grenades used as paperweights and gas lighters fashioned to resemble grenades have triggered some of the recent call-outs to the New Zealand Defence Forces bomb disposal squad.

Colonel Rian McKinstry, the Special Operations Component Commander, says E Squadron (Explosive Ordnance Disposal or EOD) had responded to call-outs sparked by novelty items that were bought online and sent through the international mail system.

At first glance, replica grenades look like the real thing so although they are not potentially dangerous, they have caused concern at the mail centre."

Although the call-outs turned out to be false alarms, they underscored the importance of continued vigilance, he says.

When you are unsure, ring for help and prevent potential harm to yourselves and others. Its best to be safe rather than sorry.

A team from E Squadron also responded when a mail centre X-ray machine detected a package addressed to a university student which appeared to contain an improvised explosive device.

When our bomb disposal team inspected the item they were able to identify it as a prank, but the mail centre staff did the right thing by having it checked."

E Squadron also regularly assists universities and laboratories to dispose of chemical stocks that may have become unstable and liable to explosion.

The robot, formally known as the wheelbarrow revolution, which the New Zealand Defence Forces bomb disposal squad uses when responding to call-outs.

Chemicals used in chemistry classes can become dangerous if stored incorrectly. For a number of years now, we have been helping schools and laboratories to dispose of potentially explosive chemicals."

E Squadron responded to 40 call-outs in the second quarter of this year, up 25 per cent from the same period last year. Auckland accounted for 30 per cent of total call-outs, with Wellington and Christchurch contributing 22 per cent.
In the disclosure, made in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Friday, Wells said its error caused more than 600 people in foreclosure to be incorrectly denied, or not offered, modifications to make home loans more affordable. Of that group, about 400 ultimately lost their homes, according to the bank, which apologized for the mistake.
Syracuse, N.Y. -- One of Central New York's largest apartment complexes has changed hands for $58.5 million, possibly the most ever paid for an apartment project in the region.

Nob Hill Apartments in Syracuse was purchased July 31 by Sinatra & Company Real Estate, of Buffalo, in a joint venture with Windsor Capital Group, a hotel management and development company based in Santa Monica, Calif., and Basalt Capital LLC, a real estate investment and advisory firm.

Pyramid Brokerage Co. President John Clark, who helped broker the deal, said the selling price is certainly one of the highest and may be the most ever paid for an apartment complex in Central New York.

Nob Hill, which features 761 one- to three-bedroom apartments, is one of the largest apartment complexes in Syracuse and the region.

Each building at Nob Hill Apartments in Syracuse has a two-story lobby. (Provided photo)

Built on 28 acres at the southeast corner of East Seneca Turnpike and Lafayette Road in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the complex is comprised of four multi-story buildings, a free-standing clubhouse and an indoor parking garage.

Each building has a first-floor community room, storage space for each apartment, and laundry rooms on all the upper floors.

On-site amenities include a fitness center, a playground, a picnic area, fire pits and a large outdoor swimming pool with a sundeck. Monthly rents range from $750 to $1,150 and include heat.

Nob Hill has historically had strong occupancy rates, being located within a short commute of the downtown business district, Syracuse University and the area's largest employer, Upstate Medical University.

"This premier residential asset is well-situated in a town that has seen compelling growth in the education and medical sectors," said Robert Scherreik, executive managing director at Pyramid Brokerage. "The multifamily market in Syracuse remains on solid footing and is highly desirable to investors."

The new owners plan to renovate and update the complex, according to a news release from the brokerage company.

The seller is Nob Hill of Syracuse Apartments LLC, a group of investors in the Midwest who have owned the complex since it was built.

In addition to Pyramid's Clark and Scherreik, Cushman & Wakefield's East Rutherford-based Capital Markets Group team of Andrew Merin, David Bernhaut, Gary Gabriel, Brian Whitmer and Ryan Dowd represented the seller in the transaction.

Contact Rick Moriarty anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-470-3148

With 761 one- to three-bedroom apartments,
Shad D. Goldthwait

Syracuse, NY -- A former Central New York man who previously admitted sexually abusing two young girls pleaded guilty again today to sodomizing a 10-year-old girl.

Shad Goldthwait, now 38, will serve another 15-year sentence on top of a 20-year sentence handed down in 2015. That means he will not get out of prison until nearly 2050.

Goldthwait was linked by DNA to the 2002 sex assault of a girl off Bear Road in Clay. He lured the girl into the woods near an apartment complex before the attack, authorities said. He was 21 years old at the time.

The case remain unsolved for more than a decade until Goldthwait was convicted of two separate attacks in Oswego County in 2002 and 2009. The victims in those cases were under the ages of 11 and 13.

Goldthwait had to provide his DNA upon his 2016 conviction. And that matched DNA found at the scene of the Clay attack.

Onondaga County Sheriff Gene Conway announced the cold-case arrest in May of this year. Because Goldthwait was already in prison, deputies worked carefully on the case without the pressure to make a quick arrest, the sheriff said.

Detective Bill Root started investigating the attack in 2005. He spent years revisiting and working to crack the case.

"It always sticks with you," he said at the time of arrest.

Goldthwait pleaded guilty quickly to the new charge, before it went to a grand jury. He previously had asked state Supreme Court Justice Gordon Cuffy what his sentence might be upon a plea.

Cuffy said today he'd give Goldthwait another 15 years on top of his original sentence. Goldthwait agreed.

He pleaded guilty to the outdated charge of "sodomy" -- the name of the crime at the time of the 2002 assault -- which is known today as criminal sexual act.

Sentencing is set for later this month. Goldthwait had moved to Florida since the decades-old abuse, but was originally arrested after flying back to Syracuse in 2015.

He does not appear in the public sex offender registry because an offender rating is not assessed until he nears release from prison.
Syracuse, N.Y. -- A toxic waste site on the western shore of Onondaga Lake will be covered over with dirt and asphalt, according to a new cleanup plan released by the Department of Environmental Conservation.

Honeywell is responsible for the cleanup of the 90-acre site, which borders Harbor Brook and straddles I-690 at the southwest corner of the lake. The DEC estimates the project cost at $12.7 million.

If the Wastebed B/ Harbor Brook site isn't covered over, a 2009 Honeywell report said, people working or walking through the site would face cancer risks higher than allowed by federal law. The half of the site that borders the lake is zoned as parkland, and Onondaga County plans to continue the Loop the Lake biking and hiking trail through the area.

The Onondaga Nation objects to the cleanup plan, saying covering rather than removing contaminated soil isn't good enough to protect the public or truly clean up the lake shore.

"Onondaga Lake is sacred to the Onondaga Nation," nation attorney Alma Lowry wrote in comments on the draft plan. The nation, she said, wants "the complete removal of contaminated materials that have been dumped in and around Onondaga Lake rather than the DEC's preferred remedy of simply covering over these wastes and leaving them in place."

Honeywell will spend an estimated $12.7 million to cover over most of the Wastebed B/Harbor Brook toxic waste site, identified by the colored lines on this map.

The plan would require Honeywell to lay down a "vegetated soil cover system" deep enough to keep chemicals away from people who will use the land, cover some of the site with a foot of soil or asphalt to stabilize the soil, and conduct "long-term monitoring to evaluate the effectiveness of the remedy."

DEC will hold a public meeting on the plan Aug. 16 at the Geddes Town Hall courtroom, 1000 Woods Road, Solvay. An open house begins at 5 p.m., and the formal meeting starts at 6 p.m.

Most of the area was used by Honeywell to dump Solvay Waste from about 1900 to the 1930s, the DEC said. Some of the land was used by Penn-Can Road Materials to produce and store asphalt. The site contains mercury, benzene, xylene and other toxic chemicals, the DEC said.

DEC and the federal Environmental Protection Agency chose the cleanup project "after reviewing the detailed investigation of the site and evaluating the remedial options," proposed by Honeywell in a 156-page study issued last month.

Honeywell proposed seven alternatives. The estimated cost of the most expensive alternative, which would have removed and replaced contaminated soil and groundwater, was $1.3 billion. Hauling away and replacing that much soil would require 300 truck trips every day for up to six years, Honeywell said, and could threaten the stability of an underground wall Honeywell has already installed to prevent contaminated groundwater from leaching into the lake.

More information on the site and cleanup plan are available on the DEC website, the downtown Syracuse and Solvay libraries, the DEC offices on Erie Boulevard in Syracuse, and the Atlantic Legal States Foundation offices on West Onondaga Street.

DEC will accept written comments on the plan through Aug. 24. Comments can be submitted to project manager Tracy Alan Smith at tracy.smith@dec.ny.gov or 625 Broadway, 12th Floor, Albany, NY 12233-7013.

The project is part of a much wider cleanup of the lake bottom and the shoreline Honeywell was required to do after New York and the EPA filed a lawsuit in 1989 under the federal Superfund law. DEC estimated in 2006 the cleanup work would cost Honeywell $451 million. Honeywell officials have declined to discuss the company's actual costs.

Contact Glenn Coin: Email | Twitter | Google + | (315) 470-3251
GEDDES, N.Y. -- Parking spaces painted on the new $27 million Orange Lot at the state fairgrounds are so narrow that people raised concerns with state officials the spots were too small for some vehicles.

To correct the problem, the state has decided to have the contractor building the parking lot make the remaining parking spots wider. The last-minute change is happening as workers finish putting lines on the lot near the state Fairgrounds, according to a state Department of Transportation spokesman.

Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard checked out the lot today and found many parking spaces were 8 feet, 3 inches or so wide. A common parking space typically is 9 to 10 feet, according to recommendations for other parking projects in the state.

A large swath of the 65-acre parking lot near the western end of the site remained unstriped on Tuesday morning.

"In response to some concerns expressed to us, we have made some design changes which will be incorporated into the remaining parking areas yet to be striped," DOT spokesman Joseph Morrissey said. "These changes will increase the width of parking spaces and aisles to better accommodate larger vehicles."

Part of the project was to increase the number of parking spaces to between 7,000 and 7,500, officials said. The DOT did not immediately say Tuesday whether any spots would be lost because of the adjustments.

The project, which is expected to be completed this month, is aimed at improving parking for events during the New York State Fair and shows at the Lakeview Amphitheater.

Morrissey said the project was completed in line with parking lot standards, and the changes that are going to be made are aimed at accommodating larger vehicles. He did not say in a statement how much wider the spots will be.

The un-striped section, near the west end of the lot, as seen Tuesday morning.

"Fair staff will direct larger vehicles to the lots with bigger spaces during this year's State Fair. Planned traffic patterns remain unchanged," he said.

The contract specifications obtained by Syracuse.com call for parking spaces between 8 feet and 8 feet, 6 inches in much of the parking lot.

Morrissey did not immediately answer questions about how many spots might be lost, if the paving will cost extra money or where the "concerns" came from.

The contract calls for the project to be done by Aug. 15.

Officials have touted the new lot's increased capacity and new paving as a way to reduce congestion and parking headaches. The lot also lost about 30 percent of its spaces each time it flooded, officials have said. Paving will prevent that.

Crews have also built a loop road around the lot to ease exit and entrance to the lot and also prevent congestion from building up on Interstate 690 during busy fair days.

And an on-ramp was just built on the west end of the lot onto Interstate 690 to ease drivers' exit from the parking lot.

Parking spot squeeze

The number of available parking spaces was enough of a concern during the summer for the project that the contract with the state imposes fines if certain benchmarks aren't met.

The project was completed this year in the middle of a busy concert season at the Lakeview Amphitheater, and crews had to grapple with a late winter and other logistical challenges to complete the 80,000-ton paving project before the New York State Fair.

For example, contract required the company to have a certain number of parking spots completed on the Orange Lot by the time the summer concert season began and for every subsequent concert.

The contractor would have been required to pay a $200,000 fine for each day there were not 3,500 spots "substantially complete" at the Orange Lot, according to the contract.

In a recent interview, DOT officials said the contractor made every deadline and was not fined. Morrissey, the spokesman, also repeated on Tuesday that the project is on budget and on time.

The number of parking spaces was, however, an issue during one of the most well-attended shows this year: Dave Matthews Band on June 3.

Numerous concertgoers complained of long lines and wait times. Some concertgoers were so fed up by the lines that they made the dangerous decision to run across Interstate 690 from the parking lots south of the Orange Lot to the venue.

County Executive Joanie Mahoney, speaking to reporters after the debacle, said just 2,500 spots were available for parking at the Orange Lot during the June 5 Dave Matthews Band show.

At the time, Morrissey said the contractor had finished the 3,500 spots by the time of the show. The contractor has not been fined, he said.

So what happened to those 1,000 spots?

Matt Hollander, SMG's general manager, said recently that he is not sure exactly how many spots were available on the day of the Dave Matthews show, but the amphitheater operators generally don't try to use up every last spot for every show.

Instead, staff consider the anticipated crowd size, how long they're expected to tailgate in the parking lot and other "audience demographics" when it comes time to make a traffic plan. Getting people out quickly is just as important as getting them in quickly, he said.

"We look at each show and evaluate it at on that basis, so we'll leave spaces ... and plan accordingly so we can manage the outflow as well," Hollander said. "It's never our intention to fill the Orange Lot based on the capacity of the lined spaces in the lot."

Hollander also said that the daily progress at the Orange Lot continues to improve the traffic experience. The on-ramp will further smooth traffic issues after concerts end.

If the project is completed on time, the new lot will be put to the test quickly.

The day the fair begins, bringing with it tens of thousands of people, hard-rock band Breaking Benjamin will perform at the amphitheater. And there will be four more amphitheater concerts during the course of the 13-day fair.
WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump plans to visit Upstate New York on Monday, making stops at Fort Drum and in Oneida County as he campaigns for two House Republicans, according to the president's New York campaign chairman.

Trump accepted an invitation from Rep. Elise Stefanik to visit Fort Drum, the home of the Army's 10th Mountain Division.

While at Fort Drum, Trump will deliver remarks and sign the John McCain National Defense Authorization Act, the bill that sets the budget and priorities for the Department of Defense, a White House official said.

Later Monday, the president plans to visit the Utica area to raise money for Rep. Claudia Tenney, R-New Hartford.

Carl Paladino, chairman of Trump's New York campaign, said he received an invitation to the event with Tenney.

"I think that's awesome that he's coming in for our candidate," Paladino said Tuesday. "It's great for New York."

Paladino, one of Tenney's earliest supporters, said he did not know if he will have a speaking role on Monday. He did not have details about the time and location. "All of this has happened very suddenly," Paladino said.

White House officials provided no other details Tuesday about the trip, Trump's first to Upstate New York since he was elected president. Tenney and her campaign did not respond to requests for comment.

Trump was a regular visitor to Upstate New York on the campaign trail before the state's presidential primary in 2016, making stops in Syracuse, Buffalo, Rome, Plattsburgh and other cities.

During the campaign, the Queens native called Upstate New York a ghost town. He said residents in the region think he's "like the most popular person that has ever lived, virtually."

After the election, Trump said Upstate New Yorkers should leave their homes behind and search for better job opportunities in places like Wisconsin. Tenney and Rep. John Katko, R-Camillus, condemned the remark.

Several public polls show Tenney locked in a tight battle in the 22nd Congressional District with state Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi, D-Utica. Political analysts in Washington have ranked Tenney as one of the 10 most vulnerable House Republicans in the midterm election.

Trump has been traveling to key swing states to help shore up House Republicans in competitive races and boost GOP Senate candidates.

The president traveled to Ohio on Saturday to campaign for Republican Troy Balderson, who is running a special election today in the state's 12th Congressional District. Trump spoke at a rally in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., on Thursday for Rep. Lou Barletta, who is trying to unseat U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa.

Contact Mark Weiner: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751
Los Angeles -- The West Hollywood City Council wants President Donald Trump's star off the Hollywood Walk of Fame.



The council unanimously passed a resolution asking for the star to be removed on Tuesday, according to CNN.



The resolution is non-binding. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, not the city of West Hollywood, controls and manages the walk.



West Hollywood Mayor John Duran said the vote was symbolic.



"The West Hollywood City Council did not pass the resolution because Donald Trump is a conservative or a Republican," Duran said, according to CNN. "Earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is an honor. When one belittles and attacks minorities, immigrants, Muslims, people with disabilities or women - the honor no longer exists."



The council has never before asked for a star to be removed. The resolution cites Trump's "disturbing treatment of women and other actions that do not meet the shared values of the city of West Hollywood, the region, state and country," according to USA Today.



The chamber said it would refer the matter to its executive committee for consideration. There are no current plans to remove the star, according to CNN.



The stars of disgraced figures like Bill Cosby and Kevin Spacey are still in place, USA Today noted.



Trump's star has been repeatedly vandalized since he entered politics. Last a month, a man smashed the star to bits with a pickaxe.



Austin Mikel Clay, 24, turned himself in after the incident. He'll be arraigned next week on a felony count of vandalism, according to CNN.



He faces up to three years in prison if convicted.





West Hollywood's resolution also urged the chamber and the city of Los Angeles, where Trump's star is located, to revisit qualifications for being included on the Walk of Fame, according to the Los Angeles Times. The attraction features more than 2,500 stars.



Trump got his star in 2007 for his work as producer of the Miss Universe pageant, the Times said.

Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Google + | 315-454-2112
Wells Fargo has faced criticism and scrutiny as of late. Earlier this year, the bank was found to have charged thousands of customers for auto insurance they didnt need and in 2016, admitted it had opened millions of sham accounts that customers did not want. In April, Wells Fargo said it would pay $1 billion to federal regulators to settle misconduct charges tied to its auto and mortgage business. And last week, the bank admitted that an internal error caused about 625 homeowners in foreclosure to wrongly be denied mortgage modifications or not offered them.
In brief: The EU still wants universally compatible phone chargers and is reinvestigating the benefits nearly a decade after the original proposal. Even though many phones already have the same port, that does not mean guaranteed compatibility of chargers.

Regulators from part of the European Union are looking to revisit a proposal to force a universally compatible phone charger. Between phone manufacturers, there are dozens of different charging blocks, not all of which are compatible with one another. The result is a lot of electronics ending up in the garbage and often needing replacement units every few years.

Going all the way back to 2009 when the EU first visited these issues of unnecessary electronic waste and consumer inconvenience, 14 companies signed on to a memorandum of understanding. Under the voluntary agreement, there was to be more widely compatible chargers launched by 2011. Clearly that did not work out as well as regulators may have hoped.

Moving forward, several businesses signed new agreements in 2013 and 2014 following the expiration of the original memorandum in 2012. Looking around at a few different Android phones and the current iPhones, it is clear that universal compatibility is still not a reality.

"Given the unsatisfactory progress with this voluntary approach, the Commission will shortly launch an impact assessment study to evaluate costs and benefits of different other options," said EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager.

Arguments for switching to a more universal standard are fairly clear. Over 51,000 tons of chargers are discarded annually and more than 13 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions could be saved using more efficient designs. However, this direct regulation could potentially stifle longer term innovations since legislation rarely keeps up with research and development.

Apple, Samsung, Huawei, and Nokia all were signers of the first voluntary memorandum. Now that the majority of Android smartphones are using USB-C as their primary port and Apple is considering implementing USB-C support on future iPhones, it seems that the EU is at least a little closer to getting its wish.

Unfortunately, just because most phones will have USB-C on at least one end of their charging cable does not mean all chargers are compatible. Different fast charging technologies such as Qualcomm's Quick Charge found on many flagships and OPPO's Dash Charge found on OnePlus devices have different electronic requirements.

Plugging in devices that support various fast charging protocols into a charger without appropriate power capabilities will result in slow charging or sometimes even a complete rejection, as is the case with many non-Apple certified chargers and lightning cables.

From a consumer standpoint, it would be absolutely wonderful to have several days worth of battery life, but the next best thing would be a device that can use just about any charger laying around the house instead of running off to find the one working charger.

In the event that the EU does pass new regulations, it will be interesting to see how companies with proprietary technologies like Apple adapt. Non-compliance with EU rules typically does not go over well and can result in hefty fines or even outright bans until changes are made.
A hot potato: Even if the Voatz app is 100 percent secure, experts warn that other key cogs of the process - like smartphones and the networks they connect to - are not, thus jeopardizing the integrity of mobile voting.

West Virginia is poised to be the first state in the country to allow citizens to cast federal election ballots using a smartphone app.

According to a recent report from CNN, West Virginians serving overseas will be able to use mobile software from Boston-based company Voatz to cast their ballot in Novembers midterm election. The blockchain-based app requires users to register by taking a photo of their government-issued ID and a selfie-style video of their face. The app then verifies that the face in the photo and video are one in the same. Biometrics are also used for verification, Voatz notes.

The digital voting process will serve as an alternative to traditional mailed absentee ballots.

West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner said there is nobody that deserves the right to vote any more than the men and women that are putting their lives on the line for us.

Warners office said four audits of the technology surfaced no problems but not everyone is convinced of its security.

Joseph Lorenzo Hall, chief technologist at the Center for Democracy and Technology, told the publication via e-mail that mobile voting is a horrific idea. Hall described it as Internet voting on peoples horribly secured devices, over horrible networks to servers that are very difficult to secure without a physical paper record of the vote.

When asked if mobile voting was a good idea, Marian K. Schneider, president of the election integrity watchdog group Verified Voting, said, The short answer is no. Like Hall, Schneider expressed concern that changes to a ballot could occur during transit.

What are your thoughts on the matter? Are we ready for mobile voting or are there still too many security vulnerabilities and variables that cant be reliably controlled?

Image via iStockphoto
Aitor Martinez stressed that the United States has previously violated agreements established for other extradition cases. | Read More
A Louisiana law that makes it a crime to threaten a public official is overly broad and thus unconstitutional, a federal appeals court has ruled.

"Because the meaning of 'threat' is broad enough to sweep in threats to take lawful, peaceful actions  such as threats to sue a police officer or challenge an incumbent officeholder  (the law) is unconstitutionally overbroad," according to an opinion published Friday by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

The appellate ruling stems from two lawsuits filed by men in Livingston and Tangipahoa parishes who were booked on public intimidation after threatening to get the officers arresting them fired.

Fifth U.S. Circuit judges Jerry E. Smith, Jacques Loeb Wiener Jr. and Don Willett on the appeals court heard the case in June. Smith penned the opinion.

Louisiana has a public intimidation law that makes it a felony to "use violence, force or threats upon (a person) with the intent to influence his conduct in relation to his position, employment or duty." The law applies to public employees, jurors, trial witnesses, election officials and school bus drivers. It carries a maximum penalty of five years at hard labor.

The Livingston and Tangipahoa men challenged the law in separate federal suits filed in the past two years on the grounds the Louisiana law violates their First Amendment right to free speech.

Is it a crime to threaten an officers job? One federal judge calls La. law 'obviously unconstitutional' Two federal judges have called into question a Louisiana law that makes it a felony crime to threaten a public official, saying the law is unc

Two judges in separate federal courts agreed with them. U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo, who serves in the New Orleans-based Eastern District of Louisiana, ruled in July 2017 that the law is unconstitutionally broad. Brian Jackson, chief judge for Baton Rouge-based Middle District of Louisiana, wrote in a September 2017 decision that criticizes that law that "our constitution guarantees a citizen's right to criticize government officials without fear of retribution."

Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry appealed the ruling from the New Orleans court to the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Landry says the law is narrow because it applies only when someone has the "corrupt intent" to bribe or extort a public official with his or her words.

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"A nonviolent threat communicated to a public employee in order for the offender to receive something to which he is not entitled as a matter of right will, almost always, be indistinguishable from extortion," the AG's office wrote in an appeals filing.

But Smith, the appellate judge, found that Louisiana Revised Statute 14:122 criminalizes lawful actions such as boycotts and lawsuits.

"To be sure, it covers a large swath of unprotected speech, including true threats and core criminal speech, such as extortion and threats to engage in truly defamatory speech made with actual malice," Smith wrote in the decision. "But the statute plainly reaches further."

It is not clear whether Landry will ask for a rehearing or seek an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. A spokeswoman did not respond to an email Monday seeking comment.

Kearney Loughlin, civil attorney for the plaintiffs in both cases, said he believes the appeals court ruling will hold.

"As far as I'm concerned, the public intimidation statute is going to be a dead letter going forward," Loughlin said.

The appellate case, Seals v. Mcbee, stems from a Tangipahoa Parish lawsuit filed by Travis Seals, of Hammond. According to the suit, sheriff's deputies were sent to investigate a complaint that Seals threatened to shoot his neighbor in December 2014. During the course of the arrest, the officers handcuffed and pepper-sprayed him. When he threatened to file a complaint against the officers and allegedly said he would get them fired, Seals was booked on public intimidation, in addition to aggravated assault.

A second case in Livingston Parish challenges the same statute and will be affected by the new ruling. In that case, a sheriff's deputy arrested William Aubin Jr., of Denham Springs, for saying, "I'm going to have your job; I'm gonna get you fired."

Twenty-first Judicial District Attorney Scott Perrilloux declined to prosecute both men.
CLINTON  A state judge on Tuesday denied a request to move the trial of a black man whose attorney claimed that a Confederate statue outside the East Feliciana courthouse is a symbol of oppression and racial intolerance and that his client couldnt get a fair trial there.

Niles Haymer, the Baton Rouge-based attorney for Ronnie Anderson, said he intends to appeal the decision by District Judge Kathryn "Betsy" Jones, and will continue to file change of venue motions for other black clients who have complained to him about having to walk past the monument before entering the courthouse.

When I walk through the door, itll be Groundhog Day because theyll know its coming, Haymer told reporters outside the courthouse following Tuesdays hearing. That confederate monument (is) a symbol of oppression, intimidation and racial intolerance. And my client feels as though he still will not get a fair shot, especially based on the performance of the DA today.

Haymer also sought District Attorney Sam DAquillas removal from handling his clients case. He said DAquilla refused to speak to him during a court appearance on another case shortly after the motion for a change of venue was filed, indicating the prosecutor was taking it personally.

Lawyer for black defendant asks town of Clinton to remove Confederate statue from courthouse A black defendant pushing for the removal of a Confederate monument from the grounds of the East Feliciana Parish courthouse in Clinton now wa

The way he treated me and the way he treated my client  who was not Mr. Anderson  felt like he had a personal vendetta, Haymer said.

DAquilla denied having any personal issues with Haymer or his client and said he operates his office in a professional manner. He disputed claims that the statue of a Confederate soldier outside the courthouse would prevent Anderson from being treated fairly.

I cant speak for everyone, but we really work hard to make sure justice is colorblind. And thats what we intend to keep doing, DAquilla said outside the courtroom. Thats why I dont want to make a lot of comments because I dont want to stir up any racial sentiments in the community. I think the less thats said about it the better we can be and the better we can move on with our lives.

D'Aquilla also repeated previous sentiments that if Anderson is so offended by the monument, he should stay out of East Feliciana and stop committing crimes there.

The motion regarding the Confederate monument has mostly overshadowed Andersons legal troubles, some of which were quashed by the judge on Tuesday due to technical issues related to the initial charges filed against him.

In her ruling from the bench Tuesday, Judge Jones pointed out that Haymer filed his motion for the change of venue too late. She said the motion should have been filed within 15 of his arraignment in March on felon gun possession charges stemming from his November 2017 arrest.

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In response to Haymers impassioned speech in court regarding his clients concerns about the Confederate monument, Jones reminded him that East Feliciana was the first parish in the state to elect a black district attorney, that a black man currently serves as president of the parishs Police Jury and the towns mayor and police chief are both black.

I dont find the existence of a piece of granite, whether you like it or not, changing what goes on inside this courthouse, nor should it, Jones said in court.

And the judge said Haymers request to have DAquilla removed from the case didnt rise to the level that requires it.

If judges started recusing district attorneys every time a DA and a defense attorney had an unpleasant interaction, wed have a lot of district attorneys sitting around twiddling their thumbs, Jones told Haymer. I trust you can both be professional in your future interactions.

DAquilla in court Tuesday asked the judge to issue a gag order but Jones denied that request.

In an interview after the court proceedings, DAquilla said he was trying to quell any more public comments and pretrial publicity given how much national attention Haymers change of venue request garnered.

Haymer thinks the gag order was an attempt to silence his intentions to bring awareness to the offensiveness of the Confederate monuments in Clinton and elsewhere in the state.

Black defendant: Confederate statue at Louisiana courthouse shows 'oppression,' 'racial intolerance' A black man charged with a gun offense claims he can't get a fair trial in East Feliciana Parish because a statue of a Confederate soldier tha

Its part of revisionist history, he said. There are statements on the monument saying these people fought for God and fought for homes and they are heroes. I disagree with that assessment of history.

Haymer added, If four million slaves were freed due to the end of the Civil War, why dont I see any memorial or monument in front of a courthouse to the abolition of slavery? The union won the war, so we should be happy that the union won. I dont see any monuments to the Union at any of these courthouses.
Remarkably, about 2,000 people turned out, the number jumping to 3,000 last year, says Boustead. This time, he hopes for 2,500-3,000 during each of two days. As in the past, fest-goers will hear musicians who play Chicagos most august concert rooms, among them pianist David Schrader (1 p.m. Sunday on the main stage), Eighth Blackbird cellist Nick Photinos (3 p.m. Sunday on the main stage) and the Grant Park Music Festival String Quartet (4 p.m. Sunday on the main stage).
A Baton Rouge man with a long history of mental illness was ordered back to a state psychiatric hospital Tuesday, a move that freezes his prosecution on charges that he fired shots at his family and a police officer in February, seriously wounding the officer.

Two psychiatrists who examined Eugene Thomas Jr., 34, found he is not competent to go forward in the criminal case. State District Judge Mike Erwin followed their recommendation and ordered Thomas transferred to the state mental hospital in Jackson to see if his competency can be restored.

+2 What happens after not guilty by reason of insanity plea? Story behind an accused Baton Rouge cop shooter Eugene Thomas Jr. shot and killed a man in 2002, later telling police he pulled the trigger because the victim was wearing his shorts. Thomas 

Thomas, who relatives have said was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and depression many years ago, shot and killed a man in 2002 because he said the victim was wearing his shorts. He was charged with murder but found not guilty by reason of insanity and ordered to be treated at the state hospital. He spent about five years at that facility.

Eugene has a long history there. Theyre familiar with him, Thomas attorney, Bruce Unangst, said Tuesday outside Erwins courtroom.

Unangst said it has been shown in the past that with the correct medication, Thomas mental competency can be restored.

Then-state District Judge Tony Marabella terminated Thomas' probation in October and he was released completely from state supervision for the first time since his 2002 arrest.

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Then came the February incident on Thomas H. Delpit Drive in which Thomas allegedly shot at three of his family members and a family friend with a stolen handgun. He then drove off and later fired rounds at officer Shane Totty on Lettsworth Street. Totty was struck in the face by a bullet, shrapnel and glass. The shooting left three bullet holes in the windshield of his police car.

Shane Totty, Baton Rouge police officer shot by mentally ill man, released from hospital Baton Rouge police officer Shane Totty, who was shot by a mentally ill man this past Sunday, was released from Our Lady of the Lake Hospital o

Thomas is charged with one count of attempted first-degree murder of a peace officer and four counts of attempted first-degree murder.

Unangst said the doctors who examined Thomas after the February incident were not asked to determine whether he was sane at the time of the offense. Doctors can continue trying to restore Thomas competency, Unangst said, or he could be committed to the state hospital indefinitely.

Erwin will review Thomas progress on Feb. 7.
This April 22, 2009 photo shows a view of the front entrance of the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola, La. (AP file photo/Judi Bottoni)
State Superintendent of Education John White makes a point while speaking at the annual meeting of Jump Start, which allows high school students to get workforce training in addition to regular academic classes, Tuesday Jan. 23, 2018, in Baton Rouge, La.
New Orleans police apparently were intent on getting Arnold Learson behind bars this week and keeping him there.

Authorities say Learson, 24, is a known associate of Jeremiah Lee, the accused gang member killed in last months mass shooting in Central City, which killed two other people and wounded seven. Police said Lee was the killers' target and the other victims were in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Police picked Learson up three days after the melee on an old domestic abuse warrant, but he was able to make bail and was released.

He was arrested again on Saturday, this time on the allegation that he was illegally carrying a gun as he left a gathering after Lees funeral, which police had under surveillance.

Now he's being held without bail on a count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Learson figured prominently in a recent internal police intelligence memo laying out why Lees killing may have been retaliation for the death nearly two years ago of a wheelchair-bound man named Kareem Dowell.

Like Lee, 28, police described Learson as an affiliate of the violent Central City street gang known as 3NG.

Police Superintendent Michael Harrison acknowledged last week that the police investigation into the July 28 shooting is focused on Lees alleged ties with the gang, which is named after the groups stomping grounds at Third and Galvez streets.

Learson had known Lee since at least 2013, when police stopped and frisked them while they were together and filled out a card with the pairs personal information, according to the internal memo.

Police said Learson was a target of a September 2016 shooting that wounded him and four others and killed 63-year-old Earnest McKnight in Central City.

Then, in December of the same year, Dowell was killed in another part of Central City, perhaps in retaliation for the earlier shooting.

Investigators considered Lee a suspect in Dowells death, according to the internal memo.

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Lee himself survived one attempt on his life in January 2017 before being fatally shot last month.

Investigators received the intelligence memo on July 29. Two days later, NOPD gang violence detectives arrested Learson in Algiers and booked him on a warrant accusing him of trying to strangle the mother of his daughter during an argument more than two months earlier.

Learson posted $5,250 bail and was able to attend Lees funeral at the Autocrat Social and Pleasure Club in the 7th Ward on Saturday.

Police officers who were conducting surveillance on the club had already arrested a 21-year-old man on allegations of illegally concealing a gun when they spotted Learson coming out.

Learson appeared to have a pistol in his waistband, even though he was prohibited from having a gun because he was on probation following a 2014 cocaine possession conviction, police said in court documents.

Police tailed Learson as he drove away and then pulled him over in the 2700 block of South Claiborne, about seven blocks from the site of the July 28 mass shooting.

Police said they jailed Learson after noticing a pistol in the passenger-side seats back pocket. The gun had been reported stolen in Louisville, Kentucky, police said.

Learson was wearing a T-shirt with Lee's nickname  "Zippa"  emblazoned across the chest, next to images of a flying dove and a half-opened zipper.

A judge later set Learsons bail on the gun possession allegation at $21,000. But the judge ordered him held without bail on the allegation that he violated his probation, and Learson remained behind bars Monday.

Aside from Lee, 27-year-old Taesha Watkins and 38-year-old Kurshaw Jackson were shot to death July 28 on South Claiborne. Police said they were caught in the hail of bullets meant for Lee, who ran into a crowd in a frantic effort to escape his killers.

Police said the two shooters on South Claiborne wore hooded sweatshirts, surgical gloves and possibly ski masks. Their suspected getaway car was found torched a few hours after the shooting.

Investigators have not named any suspects in the case and are offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to criminal charges. Tipsters can call Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111 and do not have to identify themselves to be eligible for the reward.
Regardless, the film has done well since its release, earning a 99 percent fresh score from Rotten Tomatoes and earning the best per screen average of all indie movies of 2018, according to a report by The Wrap.
Donald Trump's escalating trade war with China and the EU is poised to put an end to the nearly decade-long bull run in equity markets, investors were warned as HSBC became the latest global company to admit fears over tariffs.

The wealth management arm of the Swiss investment bank UBS said the East-West conflict has reached a "tipping point" and urged action by its clients.

'Tipping point': HSBC says the trade war between the US and China could rock sharemarkets around the world. Credit:AP

Trade tensions are likely to escalate, UBS said as it warned investors to move their money out of "cyclical stocks". It told clients to hedge currency holdings to guard against potential sudden fluctuations caused by further tariffs.

"Following the worsening of the global trade conflict, UBS has cut its position on global equities," it said. The investment bank's wealth management arm oversees $US2.4 trillion ($3.25 trillion) of assets.
The Fair Work Ombudsman says cafe brand Degani needs to make a greater investment in ensuring workplace laws are followed after a review of stores resulted in 13 infringement and compliance notices.

The watchdog audited 16 stores across the cafe network after receiving a high number of requests from the community. It found issues including underpayments and record-keeping breaches at 15 of these stores, with only one outlet found to be following the rules.

The Fair Work Ombudsman has issued a comprehensive review of Degani Bakery Cafe. Credit:Gary Medlicott

The investigation has resulted in more than $44,000 of staff underpayments being recovered, as well as the issuing of 10 formal cautions, eight compliance notices and five infringement notices being issued to outlets.

Degani Bakery Cafe was founded in 1999 in the Melbourne suburb of Clifton Hill and has since grown to a network of close to 60 stores.
CSIRO scientists have taken the wheel of the first vehicle to be powered by Australian-made ultra-high purity hydrogen created through the organisations membrane technology and now plan to increase production.

CSIRO scientists take a hydrogen-powered car for a test drive.

The CSIRO first launched its hydrogen fuel program late last year to support the development of the technology as a new energy export for Australia.

It invested around $7 million in creating a hydrogen-focused Future Sciences Platform.

This was soon followed by the launch of a $496 million project, backed by state and federal governments and a Japanese consortium, to convert Victorias brown coal into liquid hydrogen for export to Japan.
Industry leaders have dismissed as irrelevant the debate over the emissions reduction targets in the National Energy Guarantee (NEG) as the energy sector was already investing in renewable sources that would cut carbon output beyond the government's proposed levels.

Alinta Energy chief executive Jeff Dimery and Ausgrid head Richard Gross on Tuesday both said the electricity sector was rapidly transitioning away from fossil fuels, ahead of policy changes, and politicians needed to put Australian consumers  and not ideology  at the centre of their debates.

Alinta CEO Jeff Dimery said industry will drive emissions beyond government proposed reduction targets. Credit:Jeremy Piper

Both Labor and the Greens have cited concerns about the ambition of the NEG's emissions targets but speaking at a Committee for the Economic Development of Australia event on Tuesday, Mr Dimery said that debate was moot.

He said the industry sees renewable energy as a better economic investment, which would in turn drive emissions reduction levels below the 26 per cent cut on 2005 levels proposed by the government.
For those of us with workplace flexibility, its tempting to imagine that the old-school nine-to-five working day is a relic of the 20th century.

And for those whose workplaces cleave to more traditional practices, its easy to dismiss such a notion as the feverish imagination of a pampered journalist.

Public transport suffers congestion at peak hours. Credit:Ryan Stuart

Certainly, the roads and public transport systems in our biggest cities seem as crowded as ever in rush hour, though theyre serving a bigger population.

Yet the truth is more people are working non-standard hours these days  and frankly, many of those sitting (or standing) on a crowded train at 8.30am are doing so by choice.
Next time you hear a classic Cheap Trick song such as Surrender or Dream Police, consider one thing: they only exist because of Australia's biosecurity laws.

"I tried to emigrate to Australia in 1971," offers guitarist Rick Nielsen. "I'd never been but I was an adventurous, young, crazy-stupid guy, and the music scene was awful in the United States. And they said if you moved they would grant you 10 acres of land or something. But I had a dog that was my child at the time, and I couldn't bring it because of the quarantine. I was declined."

Still tricking: Rick Nielsen, second from left.

Three years later Nielsen formed Cheap Trick in his hometown of Rockford, Illinois, kick-starting a career that is in rude health 44 years later.

He may not have moved to Australia, but Nielsen's relationship with the country and its people has been long-standing. Cheap Trick toured with AC/DC in the late-1970s and Nielsen says he was responsible for introducing frontman Bon Scott to his first Mexican meal.
A national deal on energy security is hanging by a thread as Labor state governments issue new demands that appear impossible to meet, challenging the Turnbull government to redraft its flagship National Energy Guarantee within days.

Victoria and the ACT will defy the federal government's pleas for consensus, issuing a list of fresh demands designed to protect the national energy policy from any roll-back of renewable energy in the Coalition party room.

The state and territory governments are hardening their stance by insisting on the changes as a condition of their support, exercising their veto power over the national plan at a meeting in Sydney this Friday.

Premier Daniel Andrews and Energy Minister Lily D'Ambrosio have set out Victoria's terms for agreement on the National Energy Guarantee. Credit:Arsineh Houspian.

The federal government says its plan would deliver lower power prices, increase the reliability of the grid and cut carbon emissions in line with Australia's Paris climate pledge.
Veteran crime reporter Steve Barrett will "vigorously" defend himself against accusations he blackmailed members of a $144 million tax fraud syndicate, his lawyer says.

Barrett, a former 60 Minutes reporter and long-time Seven Network employee, has faced a Sydney court for the first time after he was charged in relation to the alleged ATO fraud.

Journalist Steve Barrett gives evidence at a parliamentary inquiry. Credit:Peter Rae

The 60-year-old didn't comment as he left the NSW District Court after his brief mention on Tuesday morning, with his lawyer speaking on his behalf.

"I think it's not appropriate for me to say anything at this stage. It's a matter before the court, but the matters will be defended vigorously," Andrew O'Brien told reporters.
South-east Queensland ranks last in export businesses, last in international internet connectivity, second-last in preserving green space but first in attracting international students to our universities compared with 10 similar regions throughout the world.

Our lifestyle is still ranked as top shelf.

However, it is south-east Queenslands high population growth (50 per cent by 2040) that makes it a potentially high-performing region.

Queensland's high population growth rate until 20240

An October 2017 report commissioned by Queensland Treasury measures the comparative advantages and weaknesses of 10 comparative regions throughout the world.
The bridge was first proposed in the 1800s and, in 2013, lord mayor Graham Quirk said he envisaged construction of the bridge being completed within five years.

On Tuesday, the state government announced it would give Brisbane City Council $230,000 towards planning the new bridge across Brisbane River.

The long-discussed pedestrian and cyclist bridge connecting Brisbane CBD and Kangaroo Point will have a business case developed.

The council previously said it supported the bridge and had identified a location but did not have the money to build the bridge before the end of the current term in 2020.

On Tuesday, after the state government announced its $230,000 grant, the councils public and active transport chairman Adrian Sacrhinner said the council had applied for the funding towards the business case.

This means we will be starting in the very near future the business case for the Kangaroo Point green bridge, he said.

We are over the moon this project has now been given some support by the state government and we are very keen to see it progressing.

The business case would be jointly funded between the council and state government.
Efforts to recover the wreckage of a helicopter that crashed in the Whitsundays in March, killing a newlywed American couple, have been suspended.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is still investigating the cause of the crash but said on August 6 it had suspended work to recover the helicopter, which sank to a depth of about 60 metres near Hardy Reef.

Pete and Sue Hensel married in December and were on their honeymoon in Queensland when they were killed in a helicopter crash.

The Hawaiian couple, Peter Hensel, 79, and wife Sue, 65, were killed after the Eurocopter EC120 Colibri crashed into water on a chartered tourist flight.

On approach to the Hardy Reef floating helicopter landing site, the pilot noticed an engine malfunction warning message appear, and circled the landing site to check details.
Speeds will drop to 30km/h on residential streets in Collingwood and Fitzroy from September in a move believed to be an Australian first.

It is understood that this will serve as a test case and the new speed limit could be proposed for other areas in Melbourne if the trial is successful.

Within weeks, Victoria Police will fine motorists who break the new speed limit, which will apply to eight kilometres of local roads bound by Alexandra Parade and Hoddle, Johnston and Nicholson streets.

The new speed zone (which will not apply to Smith and Brunswick streets) will be a 12-month trial led by Yarra Council, backed by a $250,000 grant from the Transport Accident Commission. The area is currently a 40km/h zone.
The man police believe could assist with their inquiries Credit:Victoria Police

A stalker has allegedly been sending sexually explicit handwritten letters and making creepy phone calls to women working in shops in Melbournes north and Victorias Surf Coast.

Police are searching for a white-haired man who they believe has been spying on the women in Coburg, Essendon and Torquay before contacting them.

They believe the "serial stalker" may visit or live in Anglesea or another Surf Coast suburb.

The harassing letters were first sent in January. Police believe the man has since made calls from payphones in Melbourne and on the Surf Coast to women at the same shops.
A "trusted lieutenant" in a WA commercial drug syndicate has been jailed for nine years after a police raid uncovered drugs, more than half a million dollars in cash and a handgun in a floor safe.

Jerome Ka-Kwun Leung, 28, was found guilty by a jury this week of three charges relating to more than 400 grams of high-purity methylamphetamine, over $589,000 in cash and a .22 Smith and Wesson handgun, all of which was found when organised crime squad officers raided a home on Hollett Road, Morley in 2015.

The gun found at the property. Credit:WA District Court

The items were found in a floor safe in the home's master bedroom.

The WA District Court was told on Monday that Leung's DNA was found on the elastic bands of the cash and the controls for the floor safe.
The father of an Ellenbrook man charged with the triple homicide of his mother and young siblings has appeared in a Perth court charged with threatening a woman with his "psychotic sons".

Awatea Crofts, father of Ellenbrook murder accused Teancum Petersen-Crofts, appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on July 18 to face four charges including breach of bail and threatening to injure.

Forensic Services attend the scene where three people were found dead in Ellenbrook last month.

The court heard at about 7.15am on March 3 2017, Crofts called a woman and demanded she go on a river cruise with him so he could bring back her memories from her previous incarnation.

According to the prosecution lawyer, the woman hadnt spoken to Crofts for a number of years due to his aggression and threatening manner towards her and her family.
The Greens would pressure a future Shorten government to slash greenhouse gas emissions from the electricity sector by 90 per cent, posing a likely complication for Labor should it win office at the next election without an absolute majority.

The Greens stance, announced on Tuesday, underscores the importance of negotiations over the final design of the Turnbull governments national energy guarantee. Labor states want a future federal government to control the setting of emission reductions imposed on the electricity sector, rather than being beholden to forces in Parliament seeking bolder or weaker climate action ambition.

The Greens would seek to force Labor to adopt a 90 per cent emissions reduction target on he electricity sector. Credit:Fairfax Media

Environment and Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg on Monday said federal Labor wanted free rein to change the targets because it doesnt want to have to deal with the Greens to change the legislation if it wins office.

Greens climate change and energy spokesman Adam Bandt told Fairfax Media his party would seek a number of amendments if the energy policy came before Parliament in its current form. This would include cutting electricity sector emissions by 90 per cent by 2030, based on a 2005 baseline.
Frankfurt: Parts of Frankfurt airport were evacuated for several hours on Tuesday following a lapse in security in which a French family of four were allowed to leave the secure zone despite testing positive for explosives, federal police said.

After the alarm had been raised, the family were located in the terminal, re-checked and allowed to continue on their journey after being cleared.

But two gates - A and Z - of the airport's Terminal 1 were evacuated and temporarily closed at the airport, a major international hub, disrupting travel during the busy summer holiday season.
Los Angeles: No one would mistake President Donald Trump for an expert on climate change or water policy, but a tweet he issued late Sunday about California's bushfires deserves some sort of award for most glaring misstatements about those two issues in the smallest number of words.

Trump blamed the fires on "bad environmental laws which aren't allowing massive amount of readily available water to be properly utilised." He complained that water needed for firefighting is being "diverted into the Pacific Ocean."

What he overlooked, plainly, is the increasing agreement among experts that intensifying climate change has contributed to the intensity of the bushfire season. California's woodlands have been getting drier and hotter. As colleagues Rong-Gong Lin II and Javier Panzar reported over the weekend, "California has been getting hotter for some time, but July was in a league of its own."

The current bushfires, which have killed nine people and consumed nearly 400,000 acres of woodland, destroyed 1100 homes and forced the evacuation of thousands of residents, are among the worst in the state's history. They're unrelated to water supplies or environmental laws.